Dr. Alveda King: Pray to Avoid Civil War in 21st Century America NEWS PROVIDED BY

Alveda King Ministries

Aug. 9, 2022



ATLANTA, Aug. 9, 2022 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is submitted by Dr. Alveda King, she is available for comment:

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Friends, I am saddened at the mockery of our leaders. Invading President 45's home. Mocking 46 for falling off a bike and entangling himself in his coat. What happened to PRAYING?



1 Timothy 2:2 Proverbs 24:17-22 STOP. PRAY



We need a miracle to avoid civil war in America.



I am on a flight to West Palm Beach for a meeting. Was awake most of the night with tears and prayers flowing simultaneously. I am angry and grieved, yet hopeful and prayerful at the same time. Repentant as well. So many people are angry and confused; hurling accusations; celebrating from odd corners. Many are unaware of the dangers around us. We are up against third world country "evil genie" tactics. It's time for "grown folks" to pray.



Wisdom dictates that we stop attacking and devouring each other. Pray and face the "unseen" enemy head on.



My inboxes are flooded. Are yours? Please take a moment; deep breaths, count to 10, pray Out Loud, and believe and act on Psalms 103, 23 and 91. Add 1 Corinthians 13 and John 3:16-17.



The great abolitionist of the 19th century, the former slave Frederick Douglass, once wrote: "I prayed for freedom for twenty years, but received no answer, until I prayed with my legs."



Pray on your knees, get direction from God, then get to work. Get ready to vote in all elections. See voter guide in the collage. We have a God to serve and a nation that needs Jesus!



I'm adding a couple of collages gathered from some posts coming in. Below are a few comments from friends, marked as "anonymous" to protect the prayerful.





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"Yes!! I thought that was terrible as well!! To make fun of Biden like that!! The way to deal with the wrong that's being done, is not by mockery & laughter. It's praying & trusting God will fix what's happening." -- Anonymous



"THE DEVIL SEEKS TO STEAL, KILL AND DESTROY!!! This battle is spiritual and can't be fought with flesh and blood. It's time for us to call on the Lord for wisdom and be willing to lose it all for righteousness. We will be persecuted and I'm so ready. [We] must lead in helping the righteous prepare for this battle, letting the Holy Spirit lead us. I'm ready team. This was a declaration of war!!" -- Anonymous



"Jesus! Alveda!! Just saw they raided President Trump's home!!! Horrible!' They're trying to destroy him & keep him from running again. I'm praying for him & his family." -- Anonymous



"They can't blame this on racism. This isn't about skin color. This is an assault on liberty. We are one blood, one human race. Love your book WE'RE NOT COLORBLIND." -- Anonymous



"From one blood GOD made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands." -- Acts 17:26



"And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:" -- Acts 26:6 KJV



Yes friends, fellow and sister compatriots, let us stand together; pray for our brother's strength; move forward with faith, hope and love. The battle is the Lord's!!! "So we built the wall. And all the wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work." Neh4.6 -- Anonymous



"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." -- Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.



Friends, don't give up; don't give in; There is hope: The AFPI Agenda promises light at the end of the tunnel. Inside The World Of Brook Rollins, Trump's Woman In Washington face persecution in the Name of Jesus. In Christ, we are more than conquerors.



Amen. Our ministry is funded by generous individuals like yourself. We have many ongoing projects that help us to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a world much in need of His message. Please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Alveda King Ministries.



About Alveda King:

Dr. Alveda C. King is the daughter of the late slain civil rights activist Rev. A. D. King and the niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and a Christian Evangelist. Author of the best seller KING RULES and WERE NOT COLORBLIND, she is also founder of Speak for Life, Chairman of the Center for The American Dream -AFPI, and currently serves as a Fox News Channel contributor and is the host of "Alveda King's House" on Fox Nation and a NEWSMAX opinion contributor; a member of Optimist International; former college professor; and a film and music veteran. Alveda is also a former Georgia State Legislator, college professor, a twice assigned Presidential appointee, and a 2021 recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award.



SOURCE Alveda King Ministries



CONTACT: Brian Mayes, 615-771-2040, brian@nashvillepublicity.com



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China's new energy sector moves into high gear amid pursuit for carbon goals

Xinhua) 08:10, August 09, 2022

Aerial photo taken on May 29, 2022 shows a deep-sea floating wind power equipment "Fuyao" being towed from Maoming to Luodousha sea area, south China's Guangdong Province. (Xinhua/Liu Dawei)

BEIJING, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- As construction of large-scale wind and photovoltaic power bases accelerates, China's new energy sector is expected to have greater growth potential this year amid efforts to achieve "dual carbon" goals.

In Urumqi, capital of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the construction of a wind power and photovoltaic base by China Huadian Corporation with a total installed capacity of 1 million kilowatts is progressing in full swing.

The project, which is among the first batch of large-scale wind and photovoltaic power bases greenlighted by the government, is expected to generate 2.5 billion kilowatt-hours of green electricity while saving consumption of 830,000 tonnes of standard coal and reducing carbon emissions of 2.1 million tonnes after completion.

All of the initial batches of such projects have thus far broken ground. The list of the second batch, which includes bases to be built in Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Xinjiang, Qinghai and Gansu, has been released.

CONSIDERABLE ROOM FOR GROWTH

Experts believe that the promotion of new energy bases will significantly spur the development of the new energy industry.

In the first half of 2022, China's installed capacity of wind and photovoltaic power added 12.94 million kilowatts and 30.88 million kilowatts, accounting for 18.7 percent and 44.7 percent of total new capacity, respectively, data from the National Energy Administration showed.

Driven by the country's "dual carbon" goals, the new energy sector has become one of the few industries that features a high utilization rate without generating excess capacity, said Jiang Debin, an expert with the China Electricity Council.

Su Xinyi, an analyst with China Electric Power Planning &Engineering Institute, noted that the new energy sector will continue fast expansion in the second half.

China's newly installed capacity of wind and photovoltaic power for the entire year is expected to exceed 100 million kilowatts, while the consumption of power produced by the two energy sources is estimated to reach over 12.2 percent of total power consumption, Su said.

EFFICIENT UTILIZATION

In addition to boosting energy supply capacity, companies plan to double down on investments in projects including ultra-high voltage to improve the efficiency of new energy consumption.

The State Grid Corporation of China intends to inject 2.4 trillion yuan (about 354.53 billion U.S. dollars) into the power grid during the 14th Five-Year Plan Period (2021-2025) to advance the building of a new energy consumption system.

China Southern Power Grid plans a fixed-asset investment of 125 billion yuan this year, which partly will be directed to building supporting power grid projects for new energy transmission and pumped-storage hydroelectric projects.

Data from China Electric Power Planning &Engineering Institute showed China's new energy sector maintained a high-level utilization efficiency in the first half of this year. As of the end of June, the nationwide utilization rate of wind power stood at 95.8 percent, while that of photovoltaic power was 97.7 percent.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
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Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar on Tuesday said that all party MPs and MLAs are in consensus that they should leave the BJP-led NDA alliance. After submitting his resignation to the Bihar Governor, Kumar spoke to the mediapersons. Caretaker Chief Minister Kumar said, "All MPs and MLAs reached a consensus that we should leave the NDA. Soon after, I resigned as Bihar CM." "All the meetings with the MPs, MLAs and MLCs of both the houses were held today. Everyone's wish was that we should leave NDA. So as everyone wished, we accepted the same and submitted the resignation from the post of the Chief Minister in the NDA government," he added. After tendering his resignation, Nitish Kumar left the Raj Bhavan and arrived at the residence of Rabri Devi in Patna. Earlier on Tuesday, Kumar resigned, breaking his alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Kumar, earlier in the day, held a meeting with JD(U) leaders to discuss his next political moves. He then sought time from Governor Phagu Chauhan. Around 4 pm, Kumar arrived at Raj Bhavan and met Governor Phagu Chauhan and apprised him of his decision to quit as chief minister. All MLAs and MPs of the party supported Kumar's decision and said that they were with him. They also asserted that they will continue to support Kumar in his decision. Police personnel were seen deployed in force outside the chief minister's residence. According to sources, many JD(U) legislators told Chief Minister Kumar in today's meeting that the alliance with the BJP had weakened them since 2020. Without naming Chirag Paswan, the legislators are reported to have recalled the actions of the former Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief during the 2020 state assembly polls while warning the CM that if they were not alert, it would not be good for the party. Paswan had fielded rebel BJP candidates on all seats fought by the JD(U) in the 2020 polls, in what some have alleged was part of a plot by the BJP to wedge its way into the ruling coalition in the state. Meanwhile, a meeting of the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan opposition alliance was also held here today at former chief minister Rabri Devi's residence with the participation of leaders of the CPI-ML and the Congress - part of the Opposition 'Mahagathbandhan' alliance in the state. According to sources, after the meeting, Rashtriya Janata Dal MLAs, MLCs and Rajya Sabha MP authorised party leader Tejashwi Yadav to take a decision and asserted their support for him. According to sources, Congress and Left parties MLAs have also expressed their support for Yadav. Sources said that RJD party supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav is closely watching the developments but everything was being done by Tejashwi Yadav. Meanwhile, Lalu Prasad Yadav's daughter Rohini Acharya took to Twitter to post about an impending political change in the state."Get ready for the coronation, lantern holder", she tweeted in Hindi and added a 'victory' emoticon to it. The RJD-led Opposition in the state has said that it will welcome any re-alignment in Bihar's ruling coalition without the BJP. Ahead of the RJD convened meeting today, Congress Bihar legislature party leader Ajit Sharma said: "If Nitish Kumar comes, we'll welcome him. If he comes we will support him. A meeting of Mahagathbandhan is being held. We should take a decision to support (him) by considering Nitish Kumar as the CM but we'll be able to tell you only after the meeting." Bihar BJP leaders also met at Deputy Chief Minister Tarkishore Prasad's residence in Patna on Tuesday. (ANI)
Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar on Tuesday said that all party MPs and MLAs, who attended the party meeting on Tuesday, were of opinion that the party should leave the BJP-led NDA alliance. "All MPs and MLAs reached a consensus that we should leave the NDA. Soon after, I resigned as Bihar CM," Kumar told media persons here. "Meeting with the MPs, MLAs and MLCs were held today. Everyone's wish was that we should leave NDA. So as everyone wished, we accepted the same and I submitted the resignation from the post of the Chief Minister in the NDA government," he added. After tendering his resignation, Nitish Kumar left the Raj Bhavan and arrived at the residence of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi in Patna. Kumar arrived at Raj Bhavan around 4 pm and met Governor Phagu Chauhan and apprised him of his decision to quit as chief minister. Police personnel were seen deployed in force outside the chief minister's residence. According to sources, many JD(U) legislators told Chief Minister Kumar in today's meeting that the alliance with the BJP had weakened them since 2020. Without naming Chirag Paswan, the legislators are reported to have recalled the actions of the former Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief during the 2020 state assembly polls while warning the CM that if they were not alert, it would not be good for the party. Paswan had fielded rebel BJP candidates on all seats fought by the JD(U) in the 2020 polls, in what some have alleged was part of a plot by the BJP to wedge its way into the ruling coalition in the state. Meanwhile, a meeting of the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan opposition alliance was also held here today at former chief minister Rabri Devi's residence with the participation of leaders of the CPI-ML and the Congress - part of the Opposition 'Mahagathbandhan' alliance in the state. According to sources, after the meeting, Rashtriya Janata Dal MLAs, MLCs and Rajya Sabha MP authorised party leader Tejashwi Yadav to take an appropriate decision. According to sources, Congress and Left parties MLAs have also expressed their support for Yadav. Sources said that RJD party supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav is closely watching the developments but everything was being done by Tejashwi Yadav. Meanwhile, Lalu Prasad Yadav's daughter Rohini Acharya took to Twitter to post about an impending political change in the state."Get ready for the coronation, lantern holder", she tweeted in Hindi and added a 'victory' emoticon to it. The RJD-led Opposition in the state has said that it will welcome any re-alignment in Bihar's ruling coalition without the BJP. Ahead of the RJD convened meeting today, Congress Bihar legislature party leader Ajit Sharma said: "If Nitish Kumar comes, we'll welcome him. If he comes we will support him. A meeting of Mahagathbandhan is being held. We should take a decision to support (him) by considering Nitish Kumar as the CM but we'll be able to tell you only after the meeting." Bihar BJP leaders also met at Deputy Chief Minister Tarkishore Prasad's residence in Patna on Tuesday. (ANI)
Former Rajya Sabha MP from Bihar Ali Anwar on Tuesday welcomed the JD(U)'s decision to quit NDA and join the RJD-led Mahagathabandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar and said that after five years Nitish Kumar had realized his mistake. Ali Anwar said that he had from the JD(U) in protest against Nitish Kumar's decision to join the NDA again in 2017. Speaking to ANI, former Rajya Sabha MP Ali Anwar said, "first I welcome the decision of Nitish Kumar to join the grand alliance again and it is good for the larger interest of the people of Bihar. I want to repeat again that Nitish Kumar committed a big mistake to quit the RJD alliance and deciding to join NDA in 2017 and today he has corrected it". Anwar said that the formation of a new alliance and government in Bihar will impact not only the state but also the entire north India politics including Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. Nitish Kumar has to play a big role in the coming days at national level, he said. "This is a big setback for BJP in a state like Bihar and without Nitish Kumar's support BJP has to face a difficult time in Bihar" Anwar added. (ANI)
Hours after resigning as Bihar Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar on Tuesday said that he has submitted a list of 164 MLAs to the Bihar Governor and staked claim to form a new government. "We submitted a list of 164 MLAs to the governor and staked claim to form a new government. He will let us know when oath-taking can take place," Nitish told reporters. Notably, JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar has been elected as the leader of Mahagathbandhan or the Grand Alliance. Nitish Kumar called off the alliance between the JD(U) and BJP in Bihar and resigned as the state's chief minister on Tuesday. Nitish Kumar met Tejashwi Yadav after resigning as CM and the duo is expected to meet the Governor to stake claim to the government. After meeting the Bihar Governor, JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar said, "We have the support of seven parties and one Independent MLA. The letter of support has been signed by all." Former Union minister RCP Singh, who quit JD(U) amid a rift with Nitish Kumar, said that JD(U) snapping ties with BJP and joining hands with Tejashwi Yadav is a betrayal of the 2020 mandate. Meanwhile, the Bihar BJP has called a core group meeting this evening after JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar and RJD's Tejashwi Yadav met the Governor and staked claim to form a new government. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar resigned on Tuesday breaking his alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Kumar, earlier in the day, held a meeting with the JD(U) leaders to discuss his next future political moves. He then sought time from Governor Phagu Chauhan. Around 4 pm, Kumar arrived at Raj Bhavan and met Governor Phagu Chauhan and apprised him of his decision to quit as the state chief minister. Earlier, in the JD(U) meeting today, all MLAs and MPs of the party supported chief minister Kumar's decision and said that they were with him. They also asserted that they will continue to support Kumar in his decision. Police personnel were seen deployed in force outside the chief minister's residence. (ANI)
Arrested Shrikant Tyagi was using an MLA sticker on his car which was allegedly given by Uttar Pradesh MLC Swami Prasad Maurya who revealed this during police interrogation as the matter is being probed, Noida Police said. Noida Police Commissioner Alok Singh shared the information on Tuesday evening. Tyagi initially wanted to go to Lucknow. Till now, it is not been disclosed that he was in touch with a politician, the police said. During a press conference, Commissioner of Police Alok Singh said Tyagi has been arrested near Meerut. His three associates also have been arrested. These accused persons have been arrested in connection with a case related to the Omaxe Society of Sector 93 of Noida. Noida Police have lodged a case of outraging the modesty of a woman against Tyagi and others. CP Alok Singh said that the video of the said incident of August 5, 2022, came to light through the social media monitoring team. However, the matter was not reported to the police by the victim. The victim was contacted by the police. Then a case was lodged and a search for the accused was started. Initially, eight teams were constituted to apprehend Shrikant Tyagi. But he could not be traced as he was changing his locations and mobile devices. A massive team effort was launched. The number of teams was increased to 12. He was continuously being chased, the police said. Tyagi was constantly changing his locations and mobile devices. He went to Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Haridwar and Rishikesh.After a massive search operation, Tyagi was arrested alongwith the people harbouring him during these 3-4 days. While talking about the reason behind the dispute, the Commissioner of Police said that the dispute was related to the use of the common area in society, which started three years back in 2019. "There is a zero-tolerance policy against crime against women and children," the top cop said. "Tyagi had first tried to go to the airport but by the time the video was viral. Then he went to Meerut. He spent the night changing his device," he added. "Then he went to Haridwar and Rishikesh. After spending some time there, he again entered UP. Then again he changed his device," he stated. CP Alok Singh also said that Shrikant Tyagi was using a VIP number series 001 of Lucknow transport authority. These numbers were acquired through bidding of not less than Rs 1 lakh each. Police have recovered five vehicles used by Shrikant Tyagi including two Fortuners, two Safaris and one Honda Civic. The police said that his driver got a painted state emblem on the number plate of his car to show influence. The CP said," We are invoking the Gangster Act against Tyagi." Earlier on Tuesday, Uttar Pradesh police arrested Srikant Tyagi, who was recently seen in a viral video assaulting and abusing a woman at Grand Omaxe in Noida's Sector 93 and was on the run ever since. He was arrested by police near Noida. Tyagi, who claims to be a member of Bharatiya Janata Party's Kishan Morcha, has been accused of allegedly abusing and pushing a woman who is a resident of Grand Omaxe society in Noida's Sector 93B, during an argument. Noida Police had said that IPC sections 323 (punishment for voluntarily causing hurt), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), 506 (punishment for criminal intimidation), 447 (punishment for criminal trespass) have been added to the FIR registered on Friday. (ANI)
National flags worth more than Rs 16.07 crore have been sold so far in Assam ahead of the Independence Day and "Har Ghar Tiranga" campaign, said a press release. Till Tuesday, 32,58,134 national flags, created by self-help groups, were sold around the state. The total amount received from this sale is Rs 12.47 crore. Altogether 35,95,167 national flags have been stitched by more than 23,000 self-help group members. A total of 722 CLFs are involved in the process. In the state, there are 19,110 SHG National Flag sales outlets. Apart from the fabrication of national flags in Assam, the state government has requested 50 lakh flags from the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. And the state government has received 39.26 lakh flags so far. The Assam government, through the Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs Department, has been working to make these flags available at 34,000 fair-priced stores across the state. Fair Price (FP) shops are providing these flags to NFSA beneficiaries for Rs 18 each. So far, these FP stores have sold almost 20 lakh national flags worth Rs 3.60 crore. The 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign is part of the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav,' which will be held from August 13 to 15 to commemorate India's 75th anniversary of independence. The Assam government has used several methods to persuade people to hoist the tricolour at their homes, offices, and commercial establishments in order to make the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign a success. The state government is also taking steps to ensure that more than 80 lakh national flags are hoisted during the three-day campaign to demonstrate patriotism toward the nation. 'Har Ghar Tiranga' is a campaign under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to encourage people to bring the Tiranga home and to hoist it to mark the 75th year of India's independence. Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is an initiative of the Government of India to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of independence and the glorious history of India's people, culture and achievements. The program envisages inspiring Indians everywhere to hoist the national flag at their home. The aim of the programme is to make the relationship with the national flag a more personal one rather than just keeping it formal or institutional. The idea behind the initiative is to invoke the feeling of patriotism in the hearts of the people and promote awareness about the tri-colour. (ANI)
The Punjab Police on Tuesday arrested a key accused in the sensational murder case of Shaurya Chakra awardee Balwinder Singh Sandhu. The accused had been identified as Gurwinder Singh alias Baba alias Raja from Tarn Taran Sahib in Punjab, said a press release on Tuesday. Gurwinder's two aides were also arrested. The two aides have been identified as Sandeep Singh alias Kala and Gurpreet Singh alias Randhawa, as per the statement. The Police have also recovered one hand-grenade, one RDX-IED, two 30-bore pistols along with magazines and 13 live cartridges, 635 grams heroin, 100 grams opium, Rs 36.90 lakh drug money, and one Mitsubishi Lancer car from their possession. The development came amid the ongoing decisive war against drugs and gangsters waged by the Punjab Police under the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to make Punjab a drug-free and crime-free state. Director General of Police (DGP) Punjab Gaurav Yadav said that accused Gurwinder Singh alias Baba, who is proclaimed offender (PO) of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), had played a pivotal role in the killing of Shaurya Chakra awardee Balwinder Singh Sandhu by providing weapons to shooters. A probe revealed that Gurwinder Baba is a close associate of notorious gangsters Sukhpreet Singh alias Harry Chatha and Sukhmeetpal Singh alias Sukh Bikhariwal-- a prime suspect in Balwinder Singh's murder case, he said. The preliminary investigations indicated that the recovered explosives and arms and ammunition were to be used to disrupt the peace and harmony and create a sense of terror in the state of Punjab on/around Independence Day, said the DGP. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ferozepur Range Jaskaran Singh, while addressing a press conference in the presence of SSP Tarn Taran Ranjit Singh Dhillon, said that following the reliable inputs that Gurwinder Baba along with his aide Sandeep was on the way to Khadoor Sahib, the Tarn Taran Police party had intercepted the white Lancer car in which both were travelling and managed to arrest them. Two pistols with loaded magazines, 635 grams of heroin, 100gram opium and Rs 3.90 lakh drug money were recovered from the car, he added. The IGP said that, later, following the disclosures of Gurwinder Baba, the Police also recovered one hand grenade, one RDX-IED and drug money from the location pinpointed in the area of Police District Batala. Preliminary investigations suggest that the recovered explosives, arms, and drugs were smuggled via drones from Pakistan, he added. Divulging more details, SSP Tarn Taran Ranjit Singh Dhillon said that the FIR no. 118 has been registered under sections 18, 21, 25, and 29 of the NDPS Act, sections 25(6) and 25(7) of the Arms Act, sections 4 and 5 of the Explosive Substance Act and sections 10, 11 and 12 of the Aircraft Act at Police Station Verowal. He said that these arrests are likely to lead to further disclosures of cross-border smuggling modules. Further investigations are on, he added. (ANI)
Nitish Kumar is set to take oath as Bihar Chief Minister again on Wednesday after he rejoined hands with RJD and parted ways with the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance on a day of high-paced political developments in Patna. Nitish Kumar handed over his resignation to state Governor Phagu Chauhan following a rift in his party JD-U's ties with the BJP. He met the state Governor after a meeting of party leaders and then went to the residence of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav is set to take oath as Deputy Chief Minister. "The swearing-in ceremony of Honorable Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister will be held tomorrow at 2 pm at Raj Bhavan," RJD said in a tweet from its official handle. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lashed out at Nitish Kumar over his decision and said he had "disrespected the mandate given by the people of Bihar". Nitish Kumar, who talked to the media with Tejashwi Yadav, said they have the support of seven parties in Mahagathbandhan. "I came here to meet Governor and gave my resignation. There are 7 parties including 164 MLAs along with Independents in Mahagathbandahan," he told reporters. Kumar will be Bihar's Chief Minister for the eighth time. Tejashwi Yadav attacked the BJP and claimed the party does not have an alliance partner across the Hindi heartland. He accused BJP of trying to destroy parties with whom it forms alliances. "Across the Hindi heartland, BJP does not have any alliance partner. History shows that the BJP destroys the parties with whom it forms alliances. We did see that happening in Punjab and Maharashtra," he said. "Today all parties and members of the Bihar Legislative Assembly except the BJP have accepted Nitish Kumar as their leader," Yadav added. He also referred to remarks of BJP president JP Nadda. "JP Nadda said they will end regional parties. BJP knows only to intimidate and buy people. All of us wanted the BJP's agenda shouldn't be implemented in Bihar, we all know Laluji stopped the 'Rath' of Advaniji, and we won't relent at any cost," Yadav said. Asked if Nitish Kumar could be Prime Ministerial candidate, Yadav said that it was a question to be answered by the JD-U leader but "he is a very experienced and mature leader". Kumar, who was a long-time BJP ally before snapping ties in 2013 and again joining hands in 2017, said that there was a unanimous decision in the party meeting in the morning "to break off ties". JD-U and BJP had fought the 2020 assembly polls together and Nitish Kumar was made the chief minister of the alliance though the BJP had won more seats. Nitish Kumar's ties with BJP stretched to over two decades and he was a minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government in 1996. JD-U leaders indicated that factors including the developments related to the exit of RCP Singh from the party had soured the ties with BJP. JD-U leaders have also been chaffing at the role of Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leader Chirag Paswan during the 2020 assembly polls and have indicated that his putting up candidates from seats contested by the party had damaged it. JD-U and RJD had fought the 2015 Bihar polls together. JD-U has 45 and the RJD has 79 MLAs in the 243-member Bihar assembly. JD-U is the third major ally to leave the BJP in the past over three years after Shiv Sena and Shiromani Akali Dal. Sources said Nitish Kumar called Congress President Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi to express his gratitude for the Congress support in the formation of the new government in Bihar. During the meeting of JD-U leaders in the morning, they conveyed their support for any decision taken by Nitish Kumar. Without naming Chirag Paswan, the legislators are reported to have recalled the actions of the former Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief during the 2020 state assembly polls while warning the CM that if they were not alert, it would not be good for the party. Paswan had fielded his own candidates in all seats fought by the JD(U) in the 2020 polls, in what some have alleged was part of a plot of the BJP to consolidate its hold in the ruling coalition in the state. A meeting of RJD-led Mahagathbandhan was also held at Rabri Devi's residence with the participation of leaders of the CPI-ML and the Congress. The meeting authorised Tejashwi Yadav to take an appropriate decision. Sources said that RJD party supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav has also been keeping a watch on the political developments in the state. Addressing a press conference, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ravi Shankar Prasad lashed out at Nitish Kumar for breaking alliance between their parties and staking claim to form a government with RJD support and said he had "disrespected the mandate given by the people of Bihar". BJP was trying to destroy his party...BJP made him a union minister several times. He was also made a Chief Minister. Why did he re-think his decision on alliance with RJD in 2015 and come to BJP in 2017?.""Nitish Kumar is disrespecting the mandate of Bihar's people. It's a baseless allegation that BJP was trying to destroy JD(U)," said the former union minister. Bihar BJP chief Sanjay Jaiswal also slammed Kumar. "In the 2020 Bihar assembly elections, all of us contested under the NDA alliance and the majority and mandate was given by the people to JDU and BJP. However, as on date, Nitish played with the public mandate. JD(U) betrayed Bihar." "We were successful in winning 74 seats, but we fulfilled the promise made by the Prime Minister and Nitish Kumar became the Chief Minister of this NDA alliance. However, whatever happened today is a betrayal of the people of Bihar and the BJP," he said. (ANI)
Ending the alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar is likely to take oath as Bihar's Chief Minister again on Wednesday afternoon. While the RJD tweet did not mention any names, it is widely expected that Nitish Kumar would be the chief minister while RJD's Tejashwi Yadav would become his deputy. Kumar said he submitted a list of 164 MLAs to Governor Phagu Chauhan who will decide when the oath-taking can take place. The effective strength of the state Assembly is 242 and the magic figure is 122. Notably, it will be the eighth time when Nitish Kumar will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Bihar. In 1989, Kumar supported Janata Dal and backed Lalu Prasad Yadav as leader of the opposition in Bihar Assembly. However, in 1994, he floated the Samata Party with George Fernandes. In 1996, after joining hands with the BJP, he became a minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee cabinet. In March 2000, Nitish had served as the Chief Minister of the state for little over seven days, but he resigned after taking the oath as the NDA and allies had 151 seats. RJD on the other hand had 159, so both fell short of the required 163 mark. In 2003, the Samata Party merged with Janata Dal of Sharad Yadav, while its alliance continued with the BJP. In the same year, the Janata Dal (United) was formed. In 2005, in alliance with BJP, JD(U) came back to power as an NDA member. In 2010, Nitish's party came to power along with BJP as ally and he again became the Chief Minister. In 2013, the JDU leader ended his party's ties with the BJP after 17 years. Later, he won a trust vote with support from Congress but in 2014 he stepped down. However, within a year, Kumar was back as the chief minister with support from the RJD and the Congress. In 2017, the state assembly polls were won by the Grand Alliance of the JD(U), Congress and RJD. But the alliance collapsed in just two years over Deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav's name that came up in a money laundering case. Nitish ended the alliance and resigned as the chief minister and was back in office in less than 24 hours after getting support from the BJP. In 2020, Kumar took oath as the Bihar Chief Minister for the seventh time with the support of the BJP. In the elections, NDA has secured a 125-seat majority in the 243-seat strong Bihar Legislative Assembly of which BJP won on 74 seats, JD(U) on 43 while eight seats were won by two other NDA constituents. The RJD, on the other hand, emerged as the single-largest party with 75 seats while the Congress only won 19 of the 70 seats it had contested on. (ANI)
In a continuing effort to be the country's leading investment destination, the Government of Odisha, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), hosted an investors' meet in Ahmedabad on Tuesday to showcase the state's investment potential in the textile, metal, metal downstream, chemical, and various other sectors. Pratap Keshari Deb, Minister - Industries, MSME & Energy, Government of Odisha, Hemant Sharma, Principal Secretary, Industries Department presented the "Odisha Business Ecosystem and Investment Opportunities", emphasizing the state's stable government, progressive policies, natural advantages, industry-led infrastructure development, availability of industrial land, port-led development model, and highly skilled human resources, which gives the state a distinct competitive advantage over others. According to a press statement, Sharma also highlighted the zero-human-interface single window portal named GO-SWIFT, ready-to-move industrial land parcels across the state and the competitive power and water tariffs which are enablers to set up industries and manufacturing units in the state. Addressing the gathering Minister, Industries Minister, Pratap Keshari Deb highlighted the fact that because of abundant natural resources and metal ecosystem advantage, Odisha has become a preferred location for enterprises in the metal and allied sectors. Odisha produces 34.3 per cent of the country's total mineral output and is the leading producer of chromite, nickel, bauxite, manganese, and iron ore. The state government is promoting a Petroleum, Chemical, and Petrochemical Investment Region (PCPIR) in Paradeep, with IOCL as the anchor tenant. "Another priority area for our state is the food processing sector, which includes seafood processing as well. Odisha has a 480-kilometre coastline and three fully functional ports at Paradeep, Gopalpur, and Dhamra that connects the state to global trade channels," he said. The minister also highlighted that Odisha is a power surplus state with abundant water resources as well. Highlighting the various initiatives to drum up support for the industrial ecosystem, the minister informed that the Government of Odisha will host the third edition of the "Make in Odisha Conclave" from November 30, 2022 to 4th December 2022 and an extended hearty invitation to all industry leaders to visit Odisha and see for themselves what Odisha has to offer," Deb added. Delivering the concluding remarks, Md. Sadique Alam, Director of Industries, Odisha, said that Odisha aspires to be a hub of economic activity in East and South-East Asia. The state is diversifying from its inherent strengths in the mining and metal industries and propelling itself towards downstream and ancillary to value add to the basic metal sector, chemicals, petrochemicals and plastics, food processing, textile and apparel, and other new-age sectors. With big mother plants and bulk manufacturers operating and increasing their capacities throughout the state, there is a massive projected need for ancillaries, he said. One-to-one "Business to Government (B2G) meetings" were also organized to initiate and sustain heart-to-heart dialogue with the industry and relevant Industry associations, to understand the underlying sentiments and address the same. In line with such noble thoughts, the Government of Odisha team met 5 (five) industry associations, including marquee names like FICCI, Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry, GESIA, Gujarat Dyestuff Manufacturers Associations and Indian Laminates Manufacturers Associations. In addition to these associations, the delegation from the Government of Odisha also met 19 individual industry captains, which included many household names. (ANI)
During the programme, lectures on notable freedom fighters, the Flag Code, and Flag Disposal Directives were given. The meeting was attended by a number of officials from different civic organisations, said a press release from the Indian Coast Guard.

A total of 150 civilians gathered for the programme. The programme was inaugurated by KJ Maxi, MLA Kochi Assembly Constituency.

The importance of the Tricolour and the "Har Ghar Tiranga" Campaign was enlightened to the gathering. The session witnessed healthy participation by all civilians. (ANI)
Well-known Telugu actress and former Congres MLA Jayasudha is likely to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She has reportedly agreed to join the party after the saffron party leadership approached her. She is likely to formally join the BJP along with Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy at a public meeting to be addressed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Munugode Assembly constituency on August 21. Rajagopal Reddy recently resigned from the Congress and submitted his resignation from the Assembly on Monday. He was elected from Munuogde constituency in 2018. BJP MLA and former minister Eatala Rajender is reported to have met Jayasudha, inviting her to join the party. She is said to have laid certain preconditions before the BJP and conveyed to the party leadership that she will join the party if those preconditions are met. The state leadership of the BJP is waiting for a nod from the central leaders. The invitation to Jaysudha is part of BJP's efforts to woo leaders from various parties and well-known personalities to its fold to bolster its prospects for 2023 Assembly elections. The actress, who played leading roles in many films in 1970s and 1980s, had joined politics at the invitation of Congress leader and then Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy in 2009. She was elected to Andhra Pradesh Assembly from Secunderabad constituency in 2009. She, however, could not retain the seat in the 2014 elections. She had quit the Congress to join the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in 2016 but remained largely inactive in it. In 2019, she along with her son Nihar Kapoor had joined YSR Congress Party headed by Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy, who became the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh the same year. Jayasudha had stressed her close relation with Andhra Pradesh but had made it clear that she had no plans to contest the elections. --IANS ms/uk ( 321 Words) 2022-08-09-19:10:03 (IANS)
Even with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probing the cattle smuggling case in West Bengal going all out to get Trinamool Congress strongman Anubrata Mandal for questioning, a medical report issued by a sub-divisional hospital has come handy for the party's Birbhum district president to avoid the central agency's summon on Wednesday. Just when it was perceived that Mandal, who was denied admission by the state-run SSKM Medical College & Hospital on Monday, will have no other option but to face CBI sleuths on Wednesday, a medical report issued by Bolpur Sub-divisional Hospital surfaced, advising complete bed rest for him. On Tuesday afternoon, the CBI handed over the summon to Mandal at his ancestral residence in Bolpur in Birbhum district for appearance at CBI's Nizam Palace office in Kolkata on Wednesday. Minutes after that, a team of medical officers from the Bolpur Sub-divisional Hospital reached his residence. After check-up, they advised that Mandal's health condition is such that he needs complete bed rest for the next few days. Now questions are being raised whether Mandal will skip Wednesday's summon citing the report. Meanwhile, CBI sleuths have started preparing for questioning Mandal on Wednesday. CBI' Additional Director, Ajay Bhatnagar, is already in Kolkata and is personally overseeing the entire process. The CBI sleuths who are supposed to interrogate Mandal are ready with a set of questions. Now all eyes are on when Mandal will start from his Bolpur residence, since generally he reaches Kolkata a day in advance if he has scheduled appointments in the city. However, till the report was filed, he has not started from Bolpur. Meanwhile, CPI(M) central committee member Sujan Chakraborty said that the CBI since the beginning has given enough of long rope to Mandal. "It is high time that the central agency sleuths drag him and bring him to their office for interrogation," Chakraborty said. --IANS src/arm ( 325 Words) 2022-08-09-20:14:02 (IANS)
The Telugu Desam Parliamentary Party (TDPP) lodged a complaint with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla against Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) MP Gorantla Madhav, demanding stringent action against him. The complaint comes following controversy over an explicit video involving MP Madhav. The TDP MPs Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu and Kanakamedala Ravinda Kumar told media persons in New Delhi that the YSRCP is only trying to divert the issue of its party MP and the party has become a master in diversion politics. "The YSRCP is always interested only in bailing out the party leaders, including Madhav, from the criminal cases and thus, they filed a complaint against the YSRCP MP with the Lok Sabha Speaker. We are confident that the Lok Sabha Speaker will act on our letter," they added. The ruling YSRCP is not taking any initiative in the interest of the State and is not making any effort to wage a fight either for special category status or for the Kadapa steel plant, Ram Mohan Naidu said. "Since the safety of women in Andhra Pradesh is under threat, particularly Madhav's issue has proved it beyond doubt, the YSRCP should initiate immediate measures for women protection," he said. Ram Mohan Naidu said that the YSRCP was making every effort to save Madhav from this mess as the party is of the strong opinion that if action is initiated against the MP, then not a single leader will be safe. Almost all the leaders are either involved in videos or audios, he added. He further said that instead of taking action against the MP, the YSRCP leaders are shamelessly blaming the TDP. "If an MP is spared then tomorrow even a common man will resort to such activities and action cannot be initiated against them. The party is utilising all kinds of weapons to safeguard the MP and the Government advisor Sajjala Ram Krishan Reddy, has been changing tack every minute on this," he added. Kanakamedala Ravindra Kumar said that even woman leaders in the YSRCP are feeling ashamed of Gorantla Madhav. "Why are you maintaining silence on this," he asked. Kanakamedala said that not the MPs from Andhra Pradesh but all the Members of Parliament are seriously discussing the issue of Gorantla Madhav. "How much time does it take for getting the forensic lab report on Madhav's video," he asked. He further asked as to why the video involving Madhav and the issue of the TDP national president, Chandrababu Naidu, is linked. "Where is the connection between the two. Not even an FIR is lodged against Chandrababu Naidu and the High Court dismissed the case but the Government went in an appeal against it. The YSRCP has no ethics," he added. "In politics, there are no enemies but only rivals. But after the YSRCP came to power the party has all the enemies but no rivals," he observed. In what capacity Sajjala is holding media conferences? "He is just a government employee. Why is he responding on every issue?" Kanakamedala asked. Except for blaming Chandrababu Naidu, Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy is not taking any steps for the welfare of the people and to check the criminal cases. The TDP MPs demanded stringent action against the YSRCP MP and are confident that the Lok Sabha Speaker will act on their complaint. (ANI)
Delhi Police has arrested a man for allegedly duping a Gurudwara Granthi (priest) on the pretext of providing him Kirtan opportunity in the United States, an official said on Tuesday. The accused, identified as Sanjay Yadav, was arrested from Indore. Dy. Commissioner of Police (North Delhi) S.S. Kalsi said a complaint on MHA Cyber Crime Portal from the complainant Baldev Singh (a head Granthi in a Gurudwara in Delhi) was received alleging that he was contacted by a person in name of providing Kirtan opportunity in marriages and other cultural occasions in various cities of United States. Following this offer, the complainant transferred Rs. 1.25 lakh in bank accounts provided by the accused person. Accordingly, based on this complaint, the police registered an FIR under section 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code and began probing the matter. "Technical analysis of call details and money transaction was made and it was found that accused was operating from various locations in Indore, Madhya Pradesh," the DCP said. Raids were conducted at various locations in Indore after footage of several CCTV cameras from where money was withdrawn was obtained and analysed. During raids, the accused Sanjay Yadav was nabbed. --IANS uj/uk ( 213 Words) 2022-08-09-21:08:03 (IANS)
A ministerial level meeting between Assam and Mizoram was held in Aizawl on Tuesday to evolve strategies for a lasting solution to the inter-state border disputes between the two northeastern states. The Mizoram delegation was led by Home Minister Lalchamliana, while the Assam deputation was headed by Border Protection and Development Minister Atul Bora. After the meeting, Bora told the media that both the states agreed to promote and maintain peace and to prevent any untoward incident along the borders, adding that the deputy commissioners of the bordering districts of Assam and Mizoram would meet at least once in two months. A joint statement issued after the meeting said: "Both the states agreed that economic activities, including cultivation and farming, which have been practised by the people along the borders of the two states, shall not be disturbed and they would continue regardless of the administrative control presently exercised by either state at such locations, subject to forest regulations and after informing the deputy commissioners concerned." Bora said the next meeting would be held in Guwahati in October. At Tuesday's meeting, Mizoram Home Minister was accompanied by state's Information and Public Relations minister Lalruatkima and top officials of the state home department, while the Assam delegation also included Housing and Urban minister Ashok Singhal and three officials, including state border protection and development commissioner and secretary, G.D Tripathy. The Mizoram and Assam delegations had met in August last year to find a permanent solution to the vexed border issues after a series of clashes in the last two years. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his Mizoram counterpart Zoramthanga met over the border issues in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi in November last year and agreed to form committees involving all the stakeholders to resolve the border disputes through talks. Assam has border disputes with Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya. The worst-ever violence along the 164.6 km long Assam-Mizoram border was reported on July 26 last year, which left six Assam Police personnel dead and nearly 100 civilians and security personnel of the two neighbouring states injured. The decades-old boundary dispute between Mizoram and Assam mainly emerged from two colonial demarcations in 1875 and 1933. While Mizoram accepted the demarcation under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BERF) notified in 1875, which covers vast stretches of area now falling under Assam, as its actual boundary, the Assam government said that the demarcation made under the 1933 notification was its constitutional boundary. --IANS sc/arm ( 430 Words) 2022-08-09-22:02:02 (IANS)
Shrikant Tyagi, who was arrested by Uttar Pradesh Police for allegedly abusing and assaulting a woman in Noida, on Tuesday said that woman was like her sister and that a conspiracy was hatched to "politically decimate" him. Surajpur court sent Tyagi to 14-day judicial custody in connection with assaulting & abusing a woman at Grand Omaxe society in Noida However, speaking to media persons while being taken from the court, Tyagi said the woman whom he assaulted was like his sister and claimed that the incident was political adding that it was done to politically decimate him. "I express my regret on the incident. She is like my sister, the incident is political and was done to politically decimate me," said Tyagi while being taken from the court. Earlier, the Noida Police said that Tyagi was using an MLA sticker on his car which was allegedly given by Uttar Pradesh MLC Swami Prasad Maurya who revealed this during police interrogation as the matter is being probed. Noida Police Commissioner Alok Singh shared the information on Tuesday evening. Tyagi initially wanted to go to Lucknow. Till now, it is not been disclosed that he was in touch with a politician, the police said. During a press conference, Commissioner of Police Alok Singh said Tyagi has been arrested near Meerut. His three associates also have been arrested. These accused persons have been arrested in connection with a case related to the Omaxe Society of Sector 93 of Noida. Noida Police have lodged a case of outraging the modesty of a woman against Tyagi and others. CP Alok Singh said that the video of the said incident of August 5, 2022, came to light through the social media monitoring team. However, the matter was not reported to the police by the victim. The victim was contacted by the police. Then a case was lodged and a search for the accused was started. Initially, eight teams were constituted to apprehend Shrikant Tyagi. But he could not be traced as he was changing his locations and mobile devices. A massive team effort was launched. The number of teams was increased to 12. He was continuously being chased, the police said. Tyagi was constantly changing his locations and mobile devices. He went to Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Haridwar and Rishikesh. After a massive search operation, Tyagi was arrested along with the people harbouring him during these 3-4 days. While talking about the reason behind the dispute, the Commissioner of Police said that the dispute was related to the use of the common area in society, which started three years back in 2019. "There is a zero-tolerance policy against crime against women and children," the top cop said. "Tyagi had first tried to go to the airport but by the time the video was viral. Then he went to Meerut. He spent the night changing his device," he added. "Then he went to Haridwar and Rishikesh. After spending some time there, he again entered UP. Then again he changed his device," he stated. CP Alok Singh also said that Shrikant Tyagi was using a VIP number series 001 of Lucknow transport authority. These numbers were acquired through bidding of not less than Rs 1 lakh each. Police have recovered five vehicles used by Shrikant Tyagi including two Fortuners, two Safaris and one Honda Civic. The police said that his driver got a painted state emblem on the number plate of his car to show influence. The CP said," We are invoking the Gangster Act against Tyagi." Earlier on Tuesday, Uttar Pradesh police arrested Srikant Tyagi, who was recently seen in a viral video assaulting and abusing a woman at Grand Omaxe in Noida's Sector 93 and was on the run ever since. He was arrested by police near Meerut. Tyagi, who claims to be a member of Bharatiya Janata Party's Kishan Morcha, has been accused of allegedly abusing and pushing a woman who is a resident of Grand Omaxe society in Noida's Sector 93B, during an argument. Noida Police had said that IPC sections 323 (punishment for voluntarily causing hurt), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), 506 (punishment for criminal intimidation), 447 (punishment for criminal trespass) have been added to the FIR registered on Friday. (ANI)
US-based enterprise software vendor company Twilio on Monday said it has been hacked as someone gained "unauthorised access" to information related to its customer accounts. Twilio has more than 150,000 customers, including Facebook and ride-hailing major Uber. "On August 4, 2022, Twilio became aware of unauthorized access to information related to a limited number of Twilio customer accounts through a sophisticated social engineering attack designed to steal employee credentials," said the company. This broad-based attack against its employee base succeeded in fooling some employees into providing their credentials. The attackers then used the stolen credentials to gain access to some of its internal systems, where they were able to access certain customer data. "We continue to notify and are working directly with customers who were affected by this incident. We are still early in our investigation, which is ongoing," said Twilio. The company did not provide details on the extent of the breach or how many customers were affected. "We worked with the US carriers to shut down the actors and worked with the hosting providers serving the malicious URLs to shut those accounts down. Additionally, the threat actors seemed to have sophisticated abilities to match employee names from sources with their phone numbers," said Twilio. "We have heard from other companies that they, too, were subject to similar attacks, and have coordinated our response to the threat actors including collaborating with carriers to stop the malicious messages, as well as their registrars and hosting providers to shut down the malicious URLs," Twilio added. --IANS na/ ( 268 Words) 2022-08-08-21:50:03 (IANS)
Hours after a Pakistani media portal aired a report that the ruling Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) has reportedly activated its strategic media cell to malign Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan, the outlet was suspended, in a clear violation of Islamabad High Court (IHC) orders which barred Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) from the closure of the news channel. Transmission of Pakistan's local media outlet ARY News was suspended in different parts of Pakistan on Monday. In the details provided by the media outlet itself, it came to light that the barring of the channel took place following the orders of PEMRA to the cable operator. ARY News' transmission was suspended in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Sialkot, Hyderabad, Faisalabad and other cities. As the news outlet shutdown continued, many leaders of Imran Khan's party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) took to Twitter and registered their protests. Among those who protested online were PTI leader Shireen Mazari, Shahbaz Gill, and others. They shared screenshots showing the suspension of ARY News transmission on Nayatel (an Internet Service Provider in Pakistan). The ban came after ARY News reported that the ruling PML-N built a narrative to prove that the rival PTI is an anti-military and anti-armed forces power. The media portal claimed that the report emerged to be true. Earlier, a report compiled by the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors highlighted that Pakistan's media freedom has been under serious question. The media freedom report paints an abysmal picture of the realities of being a journalist in the country. It highlights how, in the last year alone, many journalists were killed in the line of duty and how overall attempts to stifle the media and block access to information have grown, according to Dawn. In the past year, the financial standing of media houses has also worsened. Two media workers took their own lives due to unemployment. The situation today, the report concludes, is worse than during the previous two years. The report is a damning indictment of the state of freedom of the press in the country, but it only just about captures the everyday hardships faced by journalists who risk their lives in mostly low-paid jobs to fulfil a critical role in our democracy, according to Dawn. Media workers, both field reporters and desk staff are increasingly experiencing either harassment or financial hardship or both. They are being threatened, silenced and squeezed. Be it a prime-time TV anchor or a beat reporter, the threats exist for everyone. Even media group owners are not immune to such harassment. (ANI)
Former US President Donald Trump said that Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Monday raided his Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Florida. Trump in a statement said, "My beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents." This comes as the January 6 select committee's latest public hearing said that then US President Donald Trump chose not to intervene as a mob of his supporters attacked the Capitol. However, the former president declined to say why the FBI agents were at Mar-a-Lago. He confirmed that the raid was unannounced and added "they even broke into my safe." He called the raid by the FBI a Witch Hunt and said that there are dark times for the US stressing that the agency seized the "home of the 45th President of the United States." "Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before. After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate. It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately don't want me to run for President in 2024, especially based on recent polls, and who will likewise do anything to stop Republicans and Conservatives in the upcoming Midterm Elections." He termed the incident an "assault that could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries" and noted that "sadly, America has now become one of those countries, corrupt at a level not seen before." Expressing shock, the former President said, "They even broke into my safe!" He even went ahead and compared the incident with Watergate Scandal. "What is the difference between this and Watergate, where operatives broke into the Democrat National Committee?" The Watergate scandal was a major political scandal in the history of the United States of America. It occurred during the administration of U.S. President Richard Nixon from 1972 to 1974 and led to his resignation. As per media reports, the scandal erupted over Nixon administration's continual attempts to cover up its involvement in the June 17, 1972 break-in of the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Washington, D.C., Watergate Office Building. "It is political targeting at the highest level! Hillary Clinton was allowed to delete and acid wash 33,000 E-mails AFTER they were subpoenaed by Congress. Absolutely nothing has happened to hold her accountable. She even took antique furniture, and other items from the White House," he added. Trump said that he "stood up to America's bureaucratic corruption, restored power to the people, and truly delivered for our country, like we have never seen before." "The establishment hated it. Now, as they watch my endorsed candidates win big victories, and see my dominance in all polls, they are 'trying to stop me, and the Republican Party, once more. The lawlessness, political persecution, and Witch Hunt must be exposed and stopped." (ANI)
U.S. Ambassador for International Religious Freedom Rashad Hussain traveled to Oak Creek, Wisconsin August 5-6 to participate in the 10th Annual Oak Creek Sikh Memorial Anniversary Candlelight Remembrance Vigil. The event convened federal and state government representatives, civil society, and religious leaders to honor the victims of the 2012 attack and to stand in solidarity with the Sikh community. Ambassador Hussain met with community leaders and local government officials to discuss our continuing efforts to work together to combat hate and protect religious freedom and places of worship everywhere. Sikh and Gurdwara communities in America have urged the US Congress to heed the call by the Sikh Coalition and Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) to pass the Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act, on the tenth anniversary of the attack on a Sikh gurudwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. "On this day we also join the call to US Congress by Sikh Coalition and SALDEF to pass the Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act," Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC) and American Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee (AGPC) said in a statement on August 5. Remembering the "senseless shooting", members of the SCCEC and AGPC prayed for the victims and their families."Today is the 10th anniversary of the August 5, 2012 mass shooting at the Sikh Gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin by a white supremacist. It was the deadliest act of anti-Sikh hate in US history that took the lives of seven Sikh worshippers while they were praying," according to a statement by the SCCEC and the AGPC. "Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC) and American Gurdwara Parbhandak Committee (AGPC) memorializes this senseless shooting and prays for the departed souls and their families," it added. On August 5, 2012, a 40-year-old army veteran Wade Michael Page shot several people, killing six and injured four people at a gurdwara in Oak Creek in Wisconsin, One more person in a mass shooting at a gurdwara in Oak Creek in Wisconsin died in the year 2020. Meanwhile, the SCCEC and AGPC also remembered the church mass shooting in Charleston where nine Black worshipers were shot and killed in 2015 and the shooting incident at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh where 11 worshipers were slain in 2018."Both SCCEC and AGPC stand in full solidarity with other faith communities that have fallen victim to mass gun violence and white supremacy. We realize that there is much strength we can draw from each other to help in process of healing and moving forward," the statement read.US President Joe Biden called for strict measures to reduce gun violence and defeat domestic terrorism and hate in all its forms.Mourning the loss of lives in the 2012 gurudwara attack, Biden said, "The Oak Creek shooting was the deadliest attack on Sikh Americans in our nation's history. Tragically, attacks on our nation's houses of worship have only become more common over the past decade. It is up to all of us to deny this hate-safe harbour."According to an official statement, Biden said that when generations of Sikh-Americans in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, constructed their own place of worship after years of renting local halls, it was a sacred place of their own and a connection shared with the broader community.Every year, the congregation now hosts an annual memorial run to honour the victims. The event bears the words Charhdi Kala, meaning "eternal optimism."The US President said that to stand in defence of religious freedom, all must stand together to ban the weapons that terrorize congregations around our country. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Tuesday extended wishes to the government and people of Singapore on their 57th National Day. "Warm greetings to FM @VivianBala and the Government and people of Singapore on their 57th National Day. Our Strategic Partnership is exploring new opportunities and setting higher goals." Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan had on Saturday praised India for its digital identity and payment systems and said that it is a "clear opportunity" for the country. The two ministers held a meeting on Saturday in Cambodia. Balakrishnan noted two basic areas including certain strengths which India has and economic integration. "India has certain strengths - FinTech, digital finance, digital inclusion, and what they have done with digital identity and payment systems, is a clear opportunity for us," the Singapore Foreign Minister said. India-Singapore relations are based on shared values and approaches, economic opportunities, and convergence of interests on key issues. Political engagement is regular. The defence relations are particularly strong. Economic and technological ties are extensive and growing. Additionally, the cultural and human links between both nations are very vibrant. There are more than 20 regular bilateral mechanisms, dialogues, and exercises. There is great convergence on a broad range of international issues and both are members of a number of forums, including the East Asia Summit, G20, Commonwealth, IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) and IONS (Indian Ocean Naval Symposium). Singapore is India's 6th largest trade partner (2020-21) with a share of 3.2 per cent of India's overall trade. In 2021-22 (April - September 2021) bilateral trade stood at USD 14.2 billion. In 2020-21, bilateral trade stood at USD 21.98 billion. The cumulative FDI inflows from Singapore to India stood at USD 118.39 billion (April 2000 -June 2021) which is 22 pc of total FDI inflows in India. Singapore was the largest source of FDI in India in 2018-19, 2019-20, and 2020-21. During the second wave of the pandemic, Singapore's position as a logistic hub enabled both the public and private sectors to source emergency relief supplies such as oxygen- tanks, cylinders, concentrators, and ventilators among others from Singapore to India. Till the end of June 2021, 26 Indian Air Force sorties and 4 Indian Navy Ships transported substantial quantities of these items from Singapore to India. The close ties between India and Singapore have a history rooted in strong commercial, cultural and people-to-people links across a millennium. India and Singapore added new momentum and direction to their Strategic Partnership in 2018, anchored in the official visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Singapore from May 31 to June 2, and his second visit on November 14-15 for attending the ASEAN-India and related Summits. (ANI).
Rinnai Australia recently announced a new renewable product technology which is designed to support Australia's clean energy mix future as the 'Rinnai Global Innovation Manifesto', which seeks to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050. Managing Director of Rinnai Australia, Greg Ellis said that Rinnai Australia is now a centre of excellence for Rinnai in Japan, in the Pacific region, for R&D and product development, and particularly in renewable energy products and zero footprint products for emissions. "Nearly 50 per cent of the product that Rinnai now sell in Australia and other regions is manufactured here in Australian factories," he said. Ellis further said that the longer-term future for Rinnai or for the country is to inject hydrogen because Australia is going to become one of the world's largest producers of green hydrogen over the next 15 years. "This product will be manufactured by breaking down the water molecule using energy gained from wind and solar farms across the country. We must prepare ourselves for that future by building ourselves into other energy footprints that allow us to manufacture, design and develop new products which will create and deliver zero emissions into the future," he said. "We have also built and manufactured Australia HP water heaters for domestic applications, many commercial inverters air conditioning products where we understand that as the future grid in Australia becomes a zero-emission grid." Ellis said that Rinnai Australia conducted a national launch of this 100 per cent hydrogen water heater. "At that function we asked the Japanese Ambassador to Australia, to please present and introduce this water heater technology in Australia to the media," Greg added. Ambassador of Japan to Australia, Shingo Yamagami believed that the invention of the world's first hydrogen-powered residential water heater by Rinnai and the corporation from Australian partners will boost Japan-Australia economic relations. "I am strongly convinced that the invention of the world's first hydrogen-powered residential water heater by Rinnai and the corporation from Australian partners will not only have to take Japan also a hydrogen corporation to a whole new level but will open up a whole new golden age in Japan, Australia, economic relations," Shingo Yamagami said. "We know that the future of that product development is tied intrinsically to Rinnai Japan's strength, which is electronics and core competencies in software. We think that with the great support of Rinnai Japan's, IT and R&D network, Rinnai Australia will remain a very strong player in this market and regionally as a consequence," Ellis said. "Rinnai Australia contributes to the development of renewable energy utilization around the world," he concluded. (ANI)
Four Pakistani army soldiers were killed in a suicide blast at a military convoy in the Mir Ali area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's North Waziristan district, the military's media affairs wing said on Tuesday. As per Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the soldiers were identified as 22-year-old Lance Naik Shahzaib, a resident of Mansehra, 26-year-old Lance Naik Sajjad, hailing from Ghizer, 25-year-old sepoy Umair, a resident of Kohat and 30-year-old sepoy Khurram, a resident of Narowal, the Dawn reported. ISPR issued a statement saying that the intelligence agencies have commenced investigations to find out details about the suicide bomber who carried out the attack and his handlers and facilitators. Clashes between security forces and suspected terrorists in the North Waziristan tribal district have become quite frequent in recent months. Moreover, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief and concern over the suicide attack on the military convoy and assured to root out the menace of terrorism from the country. In recent months, several such cases of bomb attacks have been reported in Pakistan. On July 4, at least 10 security personnel were injured when a suicide bomber attacked a convoy of security forces in the area. Officials said at the time that the convoy was going from Mirali to Miramshah, the district headquarters, when the suicide bomber, who was on a motorcycle, blew himself up near one of the vehicles. On May 30, a suicide bomber riding a motorcycle attacked another convoy of security forces in the Razmak area, injuring two soldiers and two children. Earlier, in April, seven Pakistani Army soldiers were killed in a convoy attack near the Pak-Afghan border area. The increased terror activities in Pakistan border areas, especially in the North Waziristan district have been costing the lives of several Pakistani soldiers. Reportedly, these militants have their bases in Afghanistan. They enter Pakistan from Afghanistan and after launching attacks on the former, retreat to their bases in Afghanistan. Further, terrorist organizations like the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) have also been working from the Afghan bases, planning attacks against Pakistan. The porous border area between Afghanistan and Pakistan has been a stronghold for the Pakistani Taliban, a banned terrorist group in Pakistan, for decades. The group has carried out various terrorist attacks in Pakistan and the officials in the country have claimed that the members of the group found shelter in neighbouring Afghanistan. Earlier, a total of 105 army personnel lost lives in such terrorist attacks within the first three months of this year, recording 97 soldiers and army officers, according to Pakistan Vernacular Media. (ANI)
A local media quoted eyewitnesses who told that the demonstrators clashed with the security forces in the al-Kahla district, southeast Maysan.

"The security forces used live bullets, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse the demonstrators who gathered at the front gates of PetroChina headquarters," an eyewitness said.

"Some demonstrators sustained varying injuries in the clashes. Many have been arrested as well," the eyewitness continued.

"The demonstrators demanded sparing some water for the marches of the district and improving the services and infrastructure," another eyewitness said.

Earlier today, Shafaq News Agency quoted a source who said that PetroChina might decamp from Iraq if the demonstrations near its sites in the southern governorate of Maysan continue to jeopardize the safety of its employees.

The source who is familiar with the matter revealed that the company said it might relocate to another governorate or leave the country if the demonstrators continue to hamper the company's security and the safety of its workers.

"If the Chinese company leaves the country, Iraq will lose 500 thousand barrels a day," the source said, adding "more than 5000 Iraqis will also lose their jobs."

"Locals from the al-Kahla area demand the company provide them with potable water and electricity. However, this is not within the mandate or capabilities," the source continued.

"It also resolutely rejected offering more job grades," the source added.

PetroChina is one of the major oil and gas producers and distributors in China, engaged in a wide range of activities related to oil, gas and new energy, and sustainably provides energy and oil products for economic and social development. (ANI)
Amid an ongoing probe into Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)'s prohibited funding case agencies in the United Kingdom have started investigations into misuse of funds by Pakistan charity organizations into misuse of funds. Sources privy to the matter said that the British agencies have started the investigation against Pakistani charities after UK's Charity Commission and the National Crime Agency received complaints, according to local media reported. Both institutions are investigating the case. According to local media, it has been alleged that funds collected in the name of charitable organizations have been sent to Pakistan but were used for political purposes. Sources, cited in the media, further said that funds were collected in Britain in the name of a hospital and university established in Pakistan, which was later used for political purposes. British investigative agencies have been given the complaints with the evidence. Along with the application, the detailed decision of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) against PTI in the foreign funding case, a report published in the Financial Times, and details of accounts of the political parties have also been provided to the investigating agencies, the sources said. Pakistan's FIA has summoned 10 leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf including former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, former Sindh governor Imran Ismail, Mian Mahmood-ur-Rashid, former MPA Seema Zia and others to address questions during the probe. The probe agency has also identified four employees of the PTI secretariat, whose personal and salary accounts were used for receiving foreign funding. The agency said funds were received in the bank accounts of Muhammad Arshad, Tahir Iqbal, Muhammad Rafique, and Nauman Afzal. In the statements, the PTI employees said that they used to give the money received in their accounts to PTI's finance manager, according to a report in local Pakistan newspaper. They said they would give signed blank cheques to the finance manager. According to the publication, the FIA came to know during the investigation that besides other accounts, foreign funding was also received in employees' salary accounts. FIA earlier constituted a six-member team to probe the case. This investigation came a few days after the three-member Election Commission of Pakistan bench in a unanimous verdict ruled that the PTI received prohibited funding in the case pending since 2014, Geo News reported. Akbar S Babar, the man who blew the lid off the scam involving the inflow of dubious foreign funds into Imran Khan's political outfit Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) formally approached the FIA to initiate a probe against the PTI on Wednesday. Babar told the FIA that the PTI's financial board in 2011 illegally authorised four employees of the party's central secretariat to collect donations in their personal accounts from within Pakistan and abroad. In its verdict, the ECP observed the 'unknown accounts' and said that hiding accounts are a "violation of the Constitution". Moreover, it found that PTI Chairman and former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan submitted a false Nomination Form I. The ECP decided to issue a show-cause notice to the PTI to explain why the commission should not seize the funds it received. (ANI)
Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu on Tuesday said China used the military drills to influence the international community's freedom of navigation in the waters and airspace of the Taiwan Strait and to prepare for an invasion. Addressing an international press conference, Wu said China's decision to carry out military exercises in areas surrounding Taiwan is a gross violation of Taiwan's rights under international law and gravely threatens regional peace and security. "...China has used the drills in its military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan. It is conducting large-scale military exercises and missile launches, as well as cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic coercion, in an attempt to weaken public morale in Taiwan," he said. "...in terms of the range of its missile tests, China is clearly trying to deter other countries from interfering in its attempt to invade Taiwan," he added. Tensions erupted in the Taiwan strait last week after the visit of US Congressional delegation, led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Taiwan welcomed the visit saying said this trip "once again emphasizes the rock-solid US commitment to Taiwan." This high-stakes visit marked the first visit by a US House Speaker in 25 years since Newt Gingrich came to Taiwan in April 1997. It was also Speaker Pelosi's first trip to Taiwan in over two decades. China started conducting a number of military exercises near Taiwan which Beijing regards as its breakaway province. More than 100 Chinese warplanes and 10 warships have taken part in the live-fire military drills surrounding Taiwan over the last few days. Multiple Chinese planes and ships were detected around Taiwan Strait, simulating an attack on its main island. Wu said these joint exercises have had a serious impact on international transportation and trade and hindered the normal operations of one of the busiest air and shipping routes in the Indo-Pacific region. The Taiwanese minister described large-scale military exercises as a serious provocation and strongly condemned China's extremely irresponsible behaviour. The Chinese military drills that started last week in at least six areas around the island, were slated to end on Sunday. But the Chinese military today said it will continue drills near Taiwan focused on anti-submarine and air-to-ship strikes. In an interview with CNN, Taiwan's Foreign Minister said he is not sure whether the leadership in Beijing "have made up their mind" to use force to take Taiwan. "The important thing for us is that we need to be prepared," he said in the CNN interview. "We want to defend the freedom and democracy that we enjoy over here. Nobody can take that away from us." (ANI)
The United Nations has condemned the recent blasts in Afghanistan that have killed and injured more than 120 people. Afghanistan has witnessed a series of targeted killings and blasts in recent weeks. The blasts have occurred in a number of areas in the capital city of Kabul including Chandawal, Pul-e-Sokhta and Sarkariz. "Following the Islamic State-claimed blasts in Kabul in recent days that killed and injured more than 120 people, the UN family in Afghanistan urges greater security for minorities so that Ashura can be marked without further attacks," the UN Assistance Mission (UNAMA) tweeted. The US also condemned the ISIS-K-claimed attacks during Ashura, which targeted Hazara and Shia-majority areas in Kabul. "We strongly condemn the ISIS-K-claimed attacks during Ashura, which targeted Hazara and Shia-majority areas in Kabul. We express our condolences to the victims and their families. Attacking worshippers is reprehensible; the Afghan people must be able to worship in peace," the US embassy in Kabul tweeted. Since the Taliban regime took control of Afghanistan, blasts and attacks have become a regular affair with unabated human rights violations involving ceaseless murder of civilians, destroying mosques and temples, assaulting women, and fuelling terror in the region. Last month, a bomb exploded near Karte Parwan Gurudwara in Kabul, a month after the holy place was attacked by members of the Islamic State. Religious minorities in Afghanistan, including the Sikh community, have been targets of violence in Afghanistan. Since the Taliban seized power in Kabul last year, the human rights situation has been exacerbated by a nationwide economic, financial and humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale. At least 59 per cent of the population is now in need of humanitarian assistance - an increase of 6 million people compared with the beginning of 2021, according to UNAMA. (ANI)
China's naval exercises and airspace violations in the East and South China sea are to meet domestic challenges by appeasing the hypernationalists as the 20th party Congress is fast approaching and Chinese President Xi Jinping is eyeing to secure a third term, however, in reality, Beijing will fall short of an attack on the island nation, media reports said. If Beijing were to invade Taiwan, China would need to mobilize 1.2 million soldiers in Taiwan through ships to counter the 450,000 military personnel in Taiwan, experts say. This will exert heavy pressure on the Chinese navy and aggravate military attrition. On political and economic grounds, Beijing will find it very difficult to go to war. Chinese President Xi Jinping is facing massive criticism at home for mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, mortgage boycotts, and loss of livelihood. People are protesting on the ground and venting their anger on social media as the distress grows. So it appears Xi may keep using military threats through military drills to soothe the hyper nationalists at home. He is using Nancy Pelosi's visit as an excuse to escalate tensions but would stop short of an attack on Taiwan. The Chinese President wants to set a larger than life image for himself and portray himself as a strong leader in front of the Chinese people. To achieve this objective, China is using its military might and encircling Taiwan to intimidate the island nation. This comes as US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan even after Beijing repeatedly used its wolf-warrior diplomacy to try and stop her. However, Pelosi did go and China sought the use of symbolic gesture to vent its anger and to be seen as determined about the annexation of Taiwan. However, as the anticipation lingers on, it seems like China will not attack Taiwan, reported Global Strat View. There are multiple reasons why China will not go down that way. China's economy is already witnessing a downturn and any military adventures in the Taiwanese Strait will further worsen the situation. Furthermore, China will also catch international attention if it does try to invade Taiwan. This is because there is already a war going on in Eastern Europe and the countries who are condemning the Ukraine war will not take much time to criticize Beijing in playing out the same moves in Taiwan. Taiwan drew a parallel and felt that when Russia invaded Ukraine no country intervened so will US support the island nation in case China invaded. In a survey conducted by Taiwan Public Opinion Foundation, only 35 per cent believed the US would come to Taiwan's rescue. In such a backdrop, Pelosi's visit brings much-needed assurance to the Taiwanese people and boosts their morale. Pelosi has been a vocal critic of China's human rights abuses. In 1991, she had unrolled a banner at Tiananmen Square, which read "To those who died for democracy in China." In addition, the abrupt retreat from Afghanistan tainted the US image as a reliable partner. The 1979 Taiwan Relations Act states, "the United States will make available to Taiwan such defense articles and defense services in such quantity as may be necessary to enable Taiwan to maintain a sufficient self-defense capabilities" and "shall maintain the capacity of the United States to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security, or social or economic system, of the people of Taiwan." But it is not binding. However, it must be noted that a 2021 Pentagon report on China read, "An attempt to invade Taiwan would likely strain PRC's (Chinese) armed forces and invite international intervention." (ANI )
The US has announced restrictions over visa issuance to over 100 persons, including members of the regime of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, on the second anniversary of the disputed election in the former Soviet state. On August 9, 2020, the people of Belarus turned out in record numbers to give voice to their democratic aspirations and desire for change. Belarus' main opposition candidate had rejected preliminary election results giving the country's longtime President Alexander Lukashenko a landslide victory. "The U.S. announces action to restrict visa issuance to over 100 persons, including members of the Lukashenko regime. We stand with the Belarusian people as they press for a democratic future," a State Department press release read. "Today we are announcing steps to impose visa restrictions on 100 regime officials and their affiliates for their involvement in undermining or injuring democratic institutions or impeding the transition to democracy in Belarus, pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 8015," it added. The US said that on the second anniversary of the presidential election in Belarus, "we commend the Belarusian people who showed up in record numbers to cast their ballots, exercise their rights, and determine their own future." "When it was clear the election had been stolen by the Lukashenko regime, the Belarusian people bravely took to the streets, with reports of hundreds of thousands of people amassing to peacefully demand free and fair elections and a democratic transition. The Belarusian people have demonstrated remarkable resilience in sustaining the pro-democracy movement for two years at great personal sacrifice. These calls for democracy are voiced by Belarusians exiled abroad, over 1,200 political prisoners unjustly detained inside the country, and countless ordinary Belarusian citizens." US State Secretary Antony Blinken noted that "their peaceful calls for democracy have been met with unprecedented brute force and a consolidated crackdown by the Lukashenko regime." Among those included are high-ranking positions in the Administration of the President, Ministry of Interior, State Security Committee (KGB), the Central Election Commission, the Prosecutor General's Office, Central Office of the Investigative Committee, Ministry of Transport and Communication, Main Directorate for Combatting Organized Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK), the National State TV and Radio Company "Belteleradio," the Second National Television Station, and the Air Force and Air Defense Forces. They also include members of Parliament, district judges, security officials, members of executive committees, and state university administrators. Individuals subject to the proclamation have been implicated in torture; violent arrests of peaceful protesters; raids of homes and offices of journalists, members of the opposition, and activists; coerced confessions; electoral fraud; politically motivated sentences of political prisoners; expulsion of students for participation in peaceful protests; passage of legislation impacting the enjoyment of fundamental freedoms; and acts of transnational repression. Since the disputed 2020 election, the US State Department has taken steps to impose visa restrictions on a total of 297 individuals under PP8015 for undermining democracy in Belarus. (ANI)
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Tuesday in Pretoria with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to strengthen the ties between the two countries and advance global priorities through the US-South Africa Strategic Dialogue. "In South Africa, I laid out our Strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa. African countries are geostrategic players and critical partners on the most pressing issues. We value these partnerships as we address shared challenges. Thank you to our South African friends for your hospitality," Blinken tweeted. A State Department said that Blinken, during his visit, noted that South Africa -- as a leading global voice, a strong constitutional democracy, a G-20 member, and a scientific, cultural, and tech leader -- is essential to global progress on COVID-19, climate, global health, democracy, and regional security Blinken thanked Ramaphosa for hosting him and his delegation in South Africa and emphasized that the United States is committed to continuing this robust, dynamic, and mutually beneficial partnership. State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said the United States and South Africa enjoy a strategic partnership with a strong network of people-to-people relationships with businesses, non-governmental organizations, universities, cultural institutions, and individual citizens. "As a global voice, strong and vibrant democracy, and a country built on its commitment to human rights, South Africa is a strategic partner of the United States, with strong collaboration in shared global and bilateral priorities, including health, climate, trade and investment, education, and digital economy," Price added. After concluding his South Africa visit, Blinken is now heading to Kinshasa, Congo, where he will meet with government leaders and representatives of civil society to discuss the extensive partnership on issues including regional security, respect for human rights, environmental conservation, climate change, and bilateral trade and investment. Ties between the US and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are deep and longstanding, according to State Department. The United States immediately established diplomatic relations with the DRC in 1960, following its independence from Belgium. In April 2019 following President Tshisekedi's visit to Washington, the United States and the DRC launched the "Privileged Partnership for Peace and Prosperity," a joint commitment reflecting the closer US-DRC relationship and a public pledge to work together on areas of mutual interest, including strengthening democratic institutions and improving respect for human rights. Experts argue that the new diplomatic push from the US in sub-Saharan Africa is in the face of recent efforts by China and Russia to gain influence on the continent. (ANI)
US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed a semiconductors investment bill in a bid to boost the competitiveness of the country's industry against China. Biden has termed the CHIPs and Science Act as a "once in a generation investment in America itself," and said the bill will create good jobs, employ workers and help grow the US economy. "Today, I sign into law the CHIPS and Science Act. It's a once-in-a-generation law that invests in America by supercharging our efforts to make semiconductors here at home. Today represents a more secure economy, jobs, and a stronger future for our nation. America is delivering," Biden tweeted. The US Senate last month passed a USD 280 billion Industrial Policy bill to counter China and bolster American competitive edge and national security. In an earlier statement, Biden said Americans are worried about the state of the economy and the CHIPS bill is one answer. He said this bill will accelerate the manufacturing of semiconductors in America, lowering prices on everything from cars to dishwashers. The legislation reflected a remarkable and rare consensus in an otherwise polarized Congress in favour of forging a long-term strategy to address the nation's intensifying geopolitical rivalry with Beijing. It promises to create jobs and result in more resilient American supply chains. The bill is expected to pave the way for the construction of factories across the country and, along with that, an estimated tens of thousands of jobs. The bill, a convergence of economic and national security policy, would provide USD 52 billion in subsidies and additional tax credits to companies that manufacture chips in the United States. It also would add USD 200 billion in scientific research, especially in artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum computing and a range of other technologies, The New York Times reported. Many senators, including Republicans, saw the legislation as a critical step to strengthen America's semiconductor manufacturing abilities at a time when the nation has become perilously reliant on foreign countries -- especially an increasingly vulnerable Taiwan -- for advanced chips. Enactment of the legislation is considered a critical step to strengthening America's semiconductor abilities at a time when the share of modern manufacturing capacity in the United States has plummeted and left the nation increasingly reliant on foreign countries. (ANI)
Citing that Tiktok is providing user data to the Chinese government, the British Parliament has shut down its TikTok account, media reports said. The British Parliament has shut down its TikTok account after some Members of Parliament sanctioned by China raised concerns about data security, reported Politico. Just six days after opening the account, parliamentary authorities confirmed they had deactivated the social media profile. The Members of Parliament expressed concerned about the relationship between TikTok and its Chinese owner ByteDance. Senior politicians expressed doubt that the TikTok user data is shared with Chinese multinational internet technology company ByteDance, reported Politico. The media outlet citing a letter to the speakers of the Commons and Lords, revealed that Tory politicians including Tom Tugendhat, Iain Duncan Smith and Nus Ghani -- all subject to sanctions by Beijing -- had called for the account to be taken down. A spokesperson for the U.K. parliament said, "Based on member feedback, we are closing the pilot U.K. parliament TikTok account earlier than we had planned. The account was a pilot initiative while we tested the platform as a way of reaching younger audiences with relevant content about parliament." A TikTok spokesperson said, "While it is disappointing that parliament will no longer be able to connect with the millions of people who use TikTok in the UK, we reiterate the offer to reassure those Members of Parliament who raised concerns and clarify any inaccuracies about our platform." The group of politicians had said they were "surprised and disappointed" with the decision to set it up. They pointed out that China's National Intelligence Law requires companies to yield data to government authorities upon request, and expressed doubt over a TikTok executive's reassurances to Parliament in 2021 that its user data is not shared with ByteDance in China, as per the media portal. Tory politician Ghani thanked the speakers for "showing serious spine in defending our values, protecting our security and sharing our concerns about TikTok," and heaped praise on Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China (IPAC) colleagues for shining a spotlight on China's treatment of the Uyghur people in Xinjiang. Meanwhile, as Britain's Members of Parliament intensify their campaign against China over rights violations in Xinjiang province, the British government has replaced security equipment provided by Chinese-owned tech companies at key government offices, media reports said. This comes as the British MPs alleged that the Chinese government is persecuting minorities and intruding on governmental departments and research centres worldwide. They also accused China of violating the territorial integrity of neighbouring countries. Among the Chinese companies are Hikvision and Dahua. Offices belonging to the Home Office, Department of Health & Social Care, Department of Work and Pensions, and Department of Justice are replacing the Chinese-made security equipment. Welcoming the move, Prof Fraser Sampson, Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material and Surveillance Camera Commissioner, said that other government departments would review their existing systems and will consider the clauses suggested by him in procuring surveillance and security equipment. While speaking to media portal Asian Lite, Sampson asserted that an investigation into the security equipment is necessary. Sampson is an expert in criminal justice and national chair of the Association of Police and Crime Chief Executives. He said that the market is flooded with privately owned and unregulated recording devices like dash cams, mobile phones, and video doorbells etc. "We don't need these many CCTV cameras in our public places. We simply need a system to compile the content and edit to make it useful for the security purpose," he said. In his 2021 report, Sampson urged the government to consider the supplier's human rights records in the procurement process. Xinjiang's Uyghurs and other Turkic minorities in Xinjiang have been subjected to severe human rights abuses, torture and forced labor, as well as the eradication of their linguistic, cultural and religious traditions in what the United States and several Western parliaments have called genocide and crimes against humanity. Chinese authorities have detained up to 1.8 million Uyghurs and other Turkic minorities in internment camps since 2017, according to numerous investigative reports by researchers, think tanks and foreign media. However, China always declines the blames and claims the camps were vocational training centers meant to deter religious extremism and terrorism, reported Radio Free Asia. The Uyghurs are a predominantly Muslim minority Turkic ethnic group, whose origins can be traced to Central and East Asia. Their native region is considered to be the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in the People's Republic of China. Xinjiang is technically an autonomous region within China. The Uyghurs are Muslim, they don't speak Mandarin as their native language, and their ethnicity and culture is different from that of mainland China. Over the past few decades, as economic prosperity has come to Xinjiang, it has brought with it large numbers of the majority Han Chinese, who have cornered the better jobs, and left the Uyghurs feeling their livelihoods and identity are under threat. This led to sporadic violence, in 2009 culminating in riots that killed 200 people, mostly Han Chinese, in the region's capital Urumqi. According to reports, since 2016, over a million Uyghur Muslims have been detained in Xinjiang re-education camps by the Chinese Government. The main purpose of these re-education camps was to ensure adherence to the ideology of the Chinese Communist Party. Chinese authorities have been accused of imposing forced labour, systematic forced birth control and torture, and separating children from incarcerated parents. Several countries, including the US, Canada and the Netherlands, have accused China of committing genocide - defined by international convention as the "intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group". China has been forcibly mass sterilising Uyghur women to suppress the population, separating children from their families, and attempting to break the cultural traditions of the group.China denies all allegations of human rights abuses in Xinjiang, claiming its system of "re-education" camps is there to combat separatism and Islamist militancy in the region. (ANI)
Justifying its large-scale military drills and airspace violations in the East and South China sea, China on Tuesday said that after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, the country is now preparing itself for every possible scenario. Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying said that Pelosi's Taiwan visit is a major provocation that upgraded US-Taiwan relations and a real threat to China's sovereignty & territorial integrity adding that China has to prepare itself for every possible scenario. Commenting on the US foreign policy on Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan and NATO eastward expansion, she questioned if US believed in the basic principles itself. Amid rising Chinese aggression, Taiwan's Defense Ministry said that the country is involved in robust training to respond to People's Liberation Army (PLA) which is continuing its military drills and demonstrating that it is a threat to the neighbouring region. In a tweet, Taiwan's Defence Ministry wrote, "PLA continuing their drills demonstrates its threat to the neighboring region. Training for readiness is one of the main missions to ROCArmedForces. We train anytime and anywhere we can, so we are able to respond to different situations in order." The ministry said that a total of 10 People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels and 45 PLA aircraft around our surrounding region were detected on August 9, 2022 until 1700(GMT+8). It added that the Taiwanese defence forces have monitored the situation and responded to these activities with aircraft in Combat air patrol (CAP), naval vessels, and land-based missile systems.16 of the detected aircraft had flown on the east part of the median line of the Taiwan Strait. Meanwhile, Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu on Tuesday said China used the military drills to influence the international community's freedom of navigation in the waters and airspace of the Taiwan Strait and to prepare for an invasion. Addressing an international press conference, Wu said China's decision to carry out military exercises in areas surrounding Taiwan is a gross violation of Taiwan's rights under international law and gravely threatens regional peace and security."...China has used the drills in its military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan. It is conducting large-scale military exercises and missile launches, as well as cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic coercion, in an attempt to weaken public morale in Taiwan," he said."...in terms of the range of its missile tests, China is clearly trying to deter other countries from interfering in its attempt to invade Taiwan," he added.Tensions erupted in the Taiwan strait last week after the visit of US Congressional delegation, led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Taiwan welcomed the visit saying said this trip "once again emphasizes the rock-solid US commitment to Taiwan." This high-stakes visit marked the first visit by a US House Speaker in 25 years since Newt Gingrich came to Taiwan in April 1997. It was also Speaker Pelosi's first trip to Taiwan in over two decades.China started conducting a number of military exercises near Taiwan which Beijing regards as its breakaway province. More than 100 Chinese warplanes and 10 warships have taken part in the live-fire military drills surrounding Taiwan over the last few days. Multiple Chinese planes and ships were detected around Taiwan Strait, simulating an attack on its main island.Wu said these joint exercises have had a serious impact on international transportation and trade and hindered the normal operations of one of the busiest air and shipping routes in the Indo-Pacific region.The Taiwanese minister described large-scale military exercises as a serious provocation and strongly condemned China's extremely irresponsible behaviour.The Chinese military drills that started last week in at least six areas around the island, were slated to end on Sunday. But the Chinese military today said it will continue drills near Taiwan focused on anti-submarine and air-to-ship strikes.In an interview with CNN, Taiwan's Foreign Minister said he is not sure whether the leadership in Beijing "have made up their mind" to use force to take Taiwan."The important thing for us is that we need to be prepared," he said in the CNN interview. "We want to defend the freedom and democracy that we enjoy over here. Nobody can take that away from us." (ANI)
Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi, who is on a three-day visit to Australia, met with the female naval sailors of the Australian Navy and discussed issues of gender equality in forces. In a tweet, Minister Lekhi wrote, "I had a great opportunity to meet with Female Naval sailors of @Australian_Navy and discuss issues of gender equality in forces, peace and security. They are inspiring individuals dedicated to advance female leadership!" [{362a4aa7-ff8c-4795-9943-01fa13149b43:intradmin/FZt7BPKVQAEe6Z4.jpg}] Earlier, she also interacted with the Indian community in Sydney. Taking to Twitter, she appreciated their contribution to strengthening India-Australia's strategic relationship."Delighted to interact with vibrant and enthusiastic Indian community in Sydney. Proud of their achievements in all walks of life and appreciate their contribution towards strengthening India-Australia strategic relationship," Lekhi said. [{bbdcfeb4-0716-4fb7-8084-73596e4e3fe7:intradmin/FZo4DH333AlaNH2022080813231020220808173434_YxHphDV.jpg}] Meenakashi Lekhi is visiting Australia from August 7 to August 9.In her earlier tweet, the Union Minister visited the National Gallery of Victoria here."Happy to visit the National Gallery of Victoria @NGVMelbourne and pleased to see prominently displayed Indian art forms depicting our diverse cultural heritages," she said. Lekhi also met the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Ben Franklin and discussed issues of mutual interests including bilateral engagement in the field of art and culture."Had a productive meeting with Hon. @BenFranklinNats, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, the Arts and Regional Youth of NSW. Discussed issues of mutual interests including Indian Community & bilateral engagement in the field of art and culture," the Minister tweeted.Australia is a key partner of India on many fronts. In the first week of July, Australia confirmed that it would commit the Australian Dollar (AUD) 5.8 million to the three-year India-Australia Critical Minerals Investment Partnership.India and Australia agreed to build a stronger partnership in the field of critical minerals which are crucial for clean energy technologies such as batteries, electric vehicles, as well as mobile phones and computers.India and Australia have strengthened cooperation on the development of critical minerals projects and supply chains.On April 2, India-Australia signed the free trade pact, rooted in a desire to reduce its economic dependence on the world's No. 2 economy, China.The last official visit was from the Australian side when Defence Minister Richard Marles arrived in India on June 20 to strengthen defence and security cooperation between both countries. (ANI)
With the increase in poverty and unemployment, Kabul residents are concerned about the increase in the number of beggars in the city, media reports said. If the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan provides them with work opportunities, they will not beg anymore, said some of the residents, Tolo News reported. While speaking with the media outlet, a beggar said, "We don't have money, we don't have a house and we sit (live) under a tent." They say that if the government provides them with a job, they will give up begging. This is while the citizens of Kabul are expressing concern about the increase in beggars in the capital. A resident of Kabul says, "Half of Kabul has been occupied by beggars, their number has increased dramatically." At the same time, the officials of the Islamic Emirates say that they have a series of programs to reduce beggars. Bilal Karimi, the Deputy Spokesman of the Islamic Emirate, noted, "It is important to identify the real beggars and provide them with the right program to stop begging and provide them with the opportunity to be paid." Before this, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs also said that they are working on a plan to help the needy, as per the media outlet. Meanwhile, Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis cannot be effectively addressed unless the US and other governments ease restrictions on the country's banking sector to facilitate legitimate economic activity and humanitarian aid, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said. "Afghanistan's intensifying hunger and health crisis is urgent and at its root is a banking crisis," said John Sifton, Asia advocacy director at Human Rights Watch. "Regardless of the Taliban's status or credibility with outside governments, international economic restrictions are still driving the country's catastrophe and hurting the Afghan people." Despite actions by the US and others to license banking transactions with Afghan entities, Afghanistan's central bank remains unable to access its foreign currency reserves or process or receive most international transactions. As a result, the country continues to suffer from a major liquidity crisis and lack of banknotes, according to HRW. "Businesses, humanitarian groups, and private banks continue to report extensive restrictions on their operational capacities. At the same time, because outside donors have severely cut funding to support Afghan health, education, and other essential sectors, millions of Afghans have lost their incomes," the rights group said. Acute malnutrition is entrenched across Afghanistan, even though food and basic supplies are available in markets throughout the country. An Afghan humanitarian official told HRW in mid-July, "People have nothing to eat. You may not imagine it, but children are starving.... The situation is dire, especially if you go to the villages." He said he knew of one family who had lost two children, ages 5 and 2, to starvation in the last two months: "This is unbelievable in 2022." He said that he knew of no shortages in food supplies and that the causes of the crisis were economic: "A functioning banking system is an immediate and crucial need to address the humanitarian crisis." Almost 20 million people - half the population - are suffering either level-3 "crisis" or level-4 "emergency" levels of food insecurity under the assessment system of the World Food Programme (WFP). Over one million children under 5 - especially at risk of dying when deprived of food - are suffering from prolonged acute malnutrition, meaning that even if they survive, they face significant health problems, including stunting. Recently, the WFP reported that tens of thousands of people in one province, Ghor, had slipped into "catastrophic" level-5 acute malnutrition, a precursor to famine. Overall, more than 90 per cent of Afghans have been suffering from some form of food insecurity since last August, skipping meals or whole days of eating and engaging in extreme coping mechanisms to pay for food, including sending children to work. Afghanistan's economic collapse was caused in part by a collapse in most families' incomes following the Taliban takeover and foreign donors' decisions to suspend outside budgetary support for numerous government, humanitarian, and development sectors, including education and health. (ANI)
Authorities in Pakistan suspended a mainstream television channel in what critics denounced as an illegal move to stifle media freedom in the country, the media reported. Private Pakistani cable operators were ordered by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to block the transmission of ARY News immediately "till further notice", VOA reported. The state regulator later sent a formal "show cause notice" to the broadcaster, accusing it of airing "false, hateful and seditious content". It went on to argue that ARY News aired comments early Monday on one of its shows by a spokesman for ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan which PEMRA said were "tantamount to inciting (the) ranks and files of armed forces towards revolt". PEMRA went on to say in the letter that "airing of such content on your news channel shows either a weak editorial in the content or the licensee is intentionally indulged in providing its platform to such individuals who intend to spread malice and hatred against the state institution for their vested interest". Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Party (PTI) accused the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of sponsoring a social media campaign aimed at proving the opposition party is anti-army, VOA reported. The TV channel rejected PEMRA's charges as unlawful, and so did legal experts, journalists and PTI leaders. Salman Iqbal, founder and CEO of one of the most popular channels in Pakistan, tweeted that his ARY News "gets shut down just because we reported a true story". Muhammad Ahmad Pansota, a lawyer and legal analyst, condemned PEMRA for suspending ARY News without any legal justification. In a tweet, he called freedom of the press a constitutionally guaranteed right that must not be tampered with by anyone, including the state, VOA reported. Sedition allegations, critics say, are often used to intimidate and harass media outlets and journalists critical of the powerful military institution. Mubashir Zaidi, a prime-time television anchor, advised the government against suspending any channel, noting such an action is in violation of recent judicial orders. "But in this case, shutdown happened ahead of the notice, and the action will be declared illegal by the courts sooner or later," Zaid tweeted. Media watchdogs also suspect the military is behind a recent campaign of intimidation and harassment against journalists in Pakistan -- charges the government and army reject, VOA reported. --IANS san/pgh ( 399 Words) 2022-08-09-20:00:04 (IANS)
Imran Khan has called an emergency meeting of the party over the arrest. Gill's arrest was first reported by PTI's Fawad Chaudhry and Murad Saeed on Twitter, Samaa TV reported.

"Shahbaz Glll has been abducted from Bani Gala Chowk by people who came in vehicles without number plates," Chaudhry said in a tweet.

Bani Gala Chowk is located around one kilometre from Imran Khan's Bangi Gala residence.

Another PTI leader Murad Saeed also reported his arrest and said that the glass windows of his car were broken. He also claimed that an assistant of Gill was beaten up.

A video shared by PTI's official Twitter handle showed broken glass. There was no official word on the arrest' of Gill. However, police sources said that Gill has been detained in connection with an FIR registered against him, Samaa TV reported.

He faces sedition charges and has been accused of incitement in connection with a troll campaign against institutions, the sources said. Gill has been moved to an undisclosed location.

A joint investigation team is probing a troll campaign that was launched immediately after a Pakistan Army helicopter crashed in Balochistan's Lasbela district.

Murad Saeed, in his tweets, said that a "horrible plan" had been hatched yesterday (Monday) night.

Saeed did not elaborate on the alleged plan he was referring to. However, Sheikh Rasheed, a close ally of Imran Khan, also spoke about Khan's possible arrest and disqualification.

--IANS san/arm

( 269 Words)

2022-08-09-21:48:04 (IANS)
Stern will be visiting Nepal from August 10 to 14 and will travel to India from August 23-27.

"During her visits, Special Envoy Stern will meet with government officials and other stakeholders to discuss advancing the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons in each country and regionally," the statement reads.

Prior to joining the State Department, Jessica Stern was an executive director of OutRight Action International, based in New York. Stern specializes in gender, sexuality and human rights globally, according to the White House.

At OutRight Action, she has supported the legal registration of LGBTIQ organizations globally, helped secure the mandate of the United Nations independent expert on sexual orientation and gender identity, expanded the General Assembly resolution to include gender identity, and co-founded the UN LGBTI Core Group.

"She has provided expert opinions to governments globally, regional human rights institutions, and UN mechanisms, including UN Women where she serves as a member of multiple leadership bodies," the statement reads.

Stern is frequently quoted by the media, including by The New York Times, Al Jazeera, The Washington Post, BBC News, and The Guardian. She is an adjunct associate professor at Columbia University's School of International and Public Affairs. (ANI)
A Minnesota county approved a nearly $1.5 million settlement of a racial discrimination lawsuit filed by eight minority correctional officers who said they were barred from guarding Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer found guilty in George Floyd's death.

The officers  who identify as Black, Hispanic, Pacific Islander American and multiracial  alleged that a superintendent at the Ramsey County Adult Detention Center in St. Paul reassigned officers of color to another floor when Chauvin was arrested in May 2020.

They said in the suit, filed last year, that the superintendent's actions "segregated" them and prevented them from doing their jobs "because of the color of their skin."

The lawsuit was settled Tuesday when the Ramsey County Board of Commissioners approved $1.455 million, according to a news release.

"The courage of these eight officers cannot be overstated," Lucas Kaster, one of the attorneys for the correctional officers, said in a statement. "During an unprecedented time in our community, the officers took the bold action to step forward and speak out against the segregation and racism they experienced."

The suit alleged that then-jail Superintendent Steve Lydon barred minority officers from guarding Chauvin and said they could not interact with him or even be on the floor where he was being held.

Chauvin was taken to jail on murder and manslaughter charges for kneeling on Floyd's neck for more than nine minutes as Floyd repeatedly said, "I can't breathe." Chauvin was convicted by a state jury of second- and third-degree murder, as well as second-degree manslaughter, in April 2021. He was sentenced to 22 years.

He also pleaded guilty to federal charges of violating Floyd's civil rights and was sentenced to just more than 20 years in that case, with the two sentences running concurrently.

One of the plaintiffs, Devin Sullivan, said in the lawsuit that he regularly processed and booked high-profile inmates. While he was patting down Chauvin, Lydon told him to stop and replaced him with a white officer, the suit said.

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The lawsuit further alleged that Chauvin received special treatment from a white lieutenant. The suit said two officers saw on security cameras that a white lieutenant was allowed access to Chauvin's cell unit, sat on his bed, patted his back "while appearing to comfort him" and let him use a cellphone.

At the time, several of the minority officers asked to speak with Lydon about what was happening. Lydon "denied he was racist and defended his decision," the lawsuit said.

The officers said in a joint statement Tuesday that their former supervisor's actions broke their trust. They said the settlement will help them as they "open a next chapter."

"Our goal in bringing attention to the segregation order was to ensure Ramsey County was held accountable for its discriminatory actions and practices. We hope the County and Detention Center will continue working toward overall culture changes that create a safe and welcoming work environment for all," the statement read.

Lydon could not be reached for comment at phone numbers listed for him. He has previously said he removed the officers "to protect and support" them by shielding them from Chauvin, according to the Star Tribune. Lydon was later removed as superintendent, the newspaper reported.
This story was originally published on Aug. 9 but was updated Aug. 16 to include the results of two House races involving incumbent Reps. Jaime Herrera Beutler and Liz Cheney.

Former President Donald Trump's vow to seek revenge on the 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach him for alleged incitement of the Jan. 6 Capitol attack has been tested in key primary elections this season.

The second House impeachment vote against Trump was the most bipartisan ever when those 10 Republicans defected from their party and joined with 222 other House Democrats to impeach him.

Trump has dedicated much of his post-presidency to purging the GOP of anyone he sees as disloyal.

Four of those 10 Republicans are retiring from Congress, while the other six faced re-election bids, including primaries in which Trump often loomed larger than their actual opponent.

Heres how those Republicans are faring now.

Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo.

Cheney has been the most outspoken critic of the former president and lost her reelection bid Tuesday in a primary against Trump-backed Harriet Hageman.

She is currently serving as vice chair of the Jan. 6 committee investigating Trumps role in the Capitol attack and is one of two House Republicans on the committee.

Republicans cannot both be loyal to Donald Trump and loyal to the Constitution, she said in an address late June. She has repeatedly called for the Republican Party to move on from Trump, believing he is a threat to American democracy.

Related: Dick Cheney calls Trump a coward and a threat in ad for Liz Cheney

Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., left, and Vice Chair Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., arrive as the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol holds a hearing at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, July 21, 2022.

In response to Cheneys vote and her vocal opposition to Trump, the House Republican Conference voted to oust her from her leadership position as chair, the No. 3 House GOP slot.

She faced an uphill battle in Wyomings Republican primary. Trump-endorsed candidate and eventual winner Harriet Hageman, unlike Cheney, has expressed doubt about the validity of 2020 election and President Joe Bidens victory.

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Opinion: What to do now with 'hot mess' that is the GOP?

Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Wash.

Herrera Beutler last week conceded to her Trump-endorsed challenger Joe Kent, who defeated her by fewer than 1,000 votes.

Kent was one of eight opponents she faced after voting to impeach the former president and one of three to push Trump's false claims of a fraudulent 2020 election.

I see that my own party will be best served when those among us choose truth. I believe President Trump acted against his oath of office, so I will vote to impeach him, Beutler said before her vote to impeach Trump.

Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Wash., speaks at a Memorial Day observance event on May 30, 2022, in Vancouver, Wash. Republican Joe Kent has taken the lead over incumbent Beutler in the race for the second spot in Washington state's top two primary.

Rep. Peter Meijer, R-Mich.

Meijer is the most recent pro-impeachment House Republican to lose a re-election bid to a Trump-endorsed challenger.

The freshman congressman lost to John Gibbs, a former official in the Department of Housing and Urban Development during Trumps presidency. Gibbs has echoed Trumps baseless claims about the 2020 election.

In a roundtable discussion hosted by WOOD TV8 in Grand Rapids, Mich., Gibbs said the 2020 election results were simply, mathematically impossible.

Gibbs received unlikely support from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, which released ads that called Gibbs too conservative. The House Democrats' campaign arm believes Gibbs will be an easier opponent in the general election than Meijer.

More: Dems are buying ads to call out extremists. Is that 'aggressive' or 'dangerous'?

Following his loss to Gibbs, Meijer said in a statement, Im proud to have remained true to my principles, even when doing so came at a significant political cost.

Rep. Dan Newhouse, R-Wash.

Newhouse, a pro-impeachment House Republican from Washington, successfully staved off a challenge from Trump-backed Loren Culp, who has espoused Trumps false claims of election fraud.

Washington is one of two states in the country to use a top-two primary system, where the top-two vote getters advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation. (California is the other state that uses a top-two primary system.)

Newhouse strongly condemned Trump for his inaction on Jan. 6, saying in a statement announcing his impeachment vote: Our country needed a leader, and President Trump failed to fulfill his oath of office.

Newhouse will face off against Democratic nominee Doug White in November.

Rep. Tom Rice, R-S.C.

In South Carolina, pro-impeachment House Republican Tom Rice was defeated by challenger Russel Fry in a June primary. Fry won Trump's endorsement in large part because of Rice's condemnation of the former president.

Congressman Tom Rice of South Carolina, the coward who abandoned his constituents by caving to Nancy Pelosi and the Radical Left, and who actually voted against me on Impeachment Hoax #2, must be thrown out of office ASAP, said Trump in a statement endorsing Fry.

Rice lost to Fry by almost 25 percentage points.

I have backed this President through thick and thin for four years. I campaigned for him and voted for him twice. But this utter failure is inexcusable, Rice said in a statement following his vote to impeach Trump.

Rep. Tom Rice, R-S.C., one of the 10 Republicans who voted to impeach former President Donald Trump, loses his primary in June 2022.

Rep. David Valadao, R-Calif.

Valadao is the only pro-impeachment House Republican who has not faced a Trump-backed primary challenger this election season.

President Trump was, without question, a driving force in the catastrophic events that took place on January 6, Valadao said in a statement after his vote to impeach Trump.

In Californias top-two primary, Valadao eked out second place against former Fresno City Councilmember, Chris Mathys, by a little more than 700 votes.

Mathys sued California's Secretary of State to be listed on the ballot as a "Trump Conservative/ Businessman." He was listed instead as a "Businessman/Rancher."

Valadao will be facing against Democratic California State Representative Rudy Salas, in what is expected to be a tough election after Democrats redrew his district to be more Democratic-leaning.

Rep. Anthony Gonzalez, R-Ohio

Gonzalez was the first of four House Republicans to announce plans to retire after their impeachment votes.

While my desire to build a fuller family life is at the heart of my decision, it is also true that the current state of our politics, especially many of the toxic dynamics inside our own party, is a significant factor in my decision, Gonzales said in a statement, alluding to the House GOPs loyalty to Trump.

Prior to his retirement, Trump called Gonzalez a grandstanding RINO during an Ohio rally last summer and endorsed Max Miller, a former White House aide, to challenge Gonzalez.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill.

Kinzinger is the only other Republican on the Jan. 6 Committee; since announcing his retirement, he has continuously criticized Trump.

Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., speaks as the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol holds a hearing at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, July 21, 2022.

Donald Trump's conduct on January 6th was a supreme violation of his oath of office and a complete dereliction of his duty to our nation, Kinzinger said during the Jan. 6 committees eighth public hearing.

Kinzinger has pledged to remain active in politics but has yet to provide much detail on his plans, announcing in a video that his retirement was not the end of my political future but the beginning.

Rep. John Katko, R-N.Y.

Katko was the third House Republican to announce his retirement after the impeachment vote, citing a desire to spend more time with his family.

Great news, another one bites the dust. Katko, from Upstate New York, is gone! Trump responded in a statement.

In an interview in March with Syracuse.com, Katko said Trump played no role in his decision to retire and expressed confidence that if he ran again, he would have been re-elected.

Rep. John Katko, R-N.Y. walks down the steps of the U.S. Capitol on September 23, 2021 in Washington, DC.

Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich.

Upton was the last of the four House Republicans who declined to seek re-election after voting to impeach Trump.

Even the best stories has a last chapter. This is it for me," Upton said in announcing his retirement on the House floor in April.

"UPTON QUITS! 4 down and 6 to go," Trump said in a statement at the time. "Others losing badly, who's next?"

Upton is Michigans longest serving member of Congress, but his district was later redrawn to pit him against another Republican incumbent, Rep. Bill Huizenga, who did not vote to impeach Trump and earned his endorsement.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 10 House Republicans voted to impeach Trump: What they're doing now
Two teenagers who are among three suspects in a robbery-homicide in June on Columbus' Northeast Side have been arrested. The third suspect was taken into custody last week.

Columbus police have now arrested the last two of the three suspects wanted in a June robbery-homicide on the citys Northeast Side.

Police said Jebrelle McClendon, 17, of the South Side, and Taywaun Gavin, 16, of the East Side, are now in custody and have been charged with aggravated murder and aggraved robbery in connection with the June 25 shooting death of 24-year-old Neal Smith.

The third suspect in the homicide, Ke'Anu Logan, 21, of the Northland area, was arrested last week.

Homicide database: Here's where homicides have occurred in Columbus since 2017

Around 10:10 p.m. on June 25, Smith had made a cash purchase at a market on the 2000 block of Argyle Drive on the city's Northeast Side.

Surveillance video shows three men "closely watching" Smith as he receives his change, according to Columbus police. Smith then left the market and was followed by the three men, who were in a vehicle.

As Smith approached the intersection of Argyle Drive and Woodland Avenue, two of the three males got out of the vehicle and approached Smith. Witnesses told police they heard Smith yell "Just take it," followed "almost immediately" by gunfire.

The two males then ran back to the vehicle, which drove off southbound on Woodland Avenue.

Smith attempted to run after being shot, but he collapsed a short distance later. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.

A 34-year-old woman, who was in the area but had nothing to do with the incident, also was struck by gunfire. She also ran a short distance before collapsing.

Detectives believe Smith was targeted for a robbery because he had cash and did not know the men who robbed and shot him.

Cole Behrens is a reporter at The Columbus Dispatch covering public safety and breaking news. You can reach him at CBehrens@dispatch.com or find him on Twitter at @Colebehr_report

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Two teens arrested in connection with June robbery-homicide on NE Side
Three days after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Melissa Janssens water broke.

But Janssen, 35, was just 18 weeks pregnant, too early for the baby to have a good chance of survival.

I was in absolute shock and just kind of numb, she said.

Doctors told Janssen she had two options. First, she could wait and see, although the baby most likely would die and shed be at increasing risk for sepsis, a dangerous infection.

Melissa Janssen with her husband, Mijail Constante. Janssen's water broke when she was just 18 weeks pregnant, most likely too early for the baby to survive. (Courtesy Melissa Janssen)

Her other option was to terminate the pregnancy. But Janssen lives in Wisconsin, which immediately banned nearly all abortions once Roe was overturned in late June.

It was just mind-blowing, she said. I just couldnt believe this was happening and this was me.

Janssen wanted to terminate; she was already showing symptoms of an infection, including a low-grade fever and tenderness in her belly, and the babys heart rate was becoming elevated. But the change in the law meant her OB-GYN, Dr. Jordan Crow, faced a dilemma. In Wisconsin, the only exception allowing for an abortion is when the mothers life is in danger. Without symptoms of a full-blown infection, legally it was a tough call to make.

To be a doctor in that position, then to be in this situation where youre uncertain, you think, will the hospital let me do this? Will the DA go after me and I end up fined or in jail? Crow said. Its this feeling of helplessness and utter confusion for everyone involved.

Janssens case is a living example of the struggle doctors across the country now face.

Melissa Janssen holds a paper card with her child's hand and foot prints. (Courtesy Melissa Janssen)

Ten states have near-total abortion bans. Four other states prohibit the procedure after six weeks. While all of them have exceptions for the life of the mother, doctors say that what constitutes imminent death has remained vague under the laws, which could put pregnant patients in grave danger.

The situation has been playing out in Texas for nearly a year since Senate Bill 8 was enacted in September, banning abortions as soon as cardiac activity is detected, which is typically around six weeks.

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A July study in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that the bill has had dire consequences for some pregnant women who faced serious complications, like Janssen.

Prior to SB8, most providers would offer the patient an opportunity to induce labor or have a procedure in order to prevent those complications from happening, said Dr. Anitra Beasley, an OB-GYN and associate professor at Baylor College of Medicine, who wasnt involved with the research. And now were waiting till the complications are happening. It can be really dangerous. Thats the reason why its not something we want to do.

The study, from researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, looked at 28 women whose water broke before 23 weeks into their pregnancies, too early for the fetuses to be viable. The women were made to wait nine days on average before doctors would intervene and terminate the pregnancies. Nearly 60 percent of the women experienced serious complications, including infection and hemorrhaging  nearly double the proportion of those in states without bans.

As time goes on, those risks increase, Beasley said. So the worse the infection is when youre developing sepsis, that can be life-threatening. When youre having really heavy bleeding, that can be life-threatening, and thats our concern.

UT Southwestern declined to grant any interviews about the study. It said in a statement that the findings speak for themselves.

Beasley is a co-author of a perspective paper published in the New England Journal of Medicine that described SB8 as having a chilling effect on patient care.

Beasley and co-authors interviewed 25 clinicians and 20 patients across Texas.

We found that the definition of emergency care is a little bit vague, she said. And so the interpretation of whats going on means that patients, pregnant patients, arent able to get the evidence-based care that they need, want and deserve until they are often really sick  so until their emergency has turned into something thats often life-threatening.

Houston residents Elizabeth and James Weller experienced that firsthand in May.

Elizabeth Weller was pregnant with their first child when her water broke at 18 weeks.

Her doctor wasnt hopeful.

She told me that you must understand that the likelihood of her being able to reach the week of viability is very low, Weller said. And if she does reach the week of viability and were able to deliver her, the fact of the matter is that your baby is going to be born with horrible physical disabilities that will completely deplete her quality of life.

With Weller at risk of sepsis and scared that their baby would suffer, she and her husband agreed that terminating the pregnancy was the best option.

I just couldnt imagine having to put my baby through that type of suffering, Elizabeth Weller said. And for the rest of that night, we just held each other and we cried over my belly, knowing that we were having to come to terms with the fact that we were choosing to terminate a pregnancy.

But the next day, their doctor told them the hospital wouldnt allow it. Weller wasnt showing symptoms of infection and therefore wasnt immediately at risk of dying.

She and the nurses essentially told me youre being sent home to develop the signs of an infection, Weller said. Because due to the laws and due to the conversations that are being had right now, because this is during the time of the Roe v. Wade leak, were in a position to where the administration will not give us the clearance for this.

So she went home and waited to get sicker.

Four days later, she experienced a foul-smelling yellow discharge, a symptom of infection. Just as she got to the emergency room, she learned that the hospitals ethics committee had finally given approval to terminate the pregnancy.

I still had to go through this ordeal, even with the outline that there was an exception for when my life was in danger, she said, referring to SB8. But the thing is, where is that threshold of danger? Where does that come up? Is knowing that Im going to get to that point enough for them to act, or is me having really to come in with a uterus in danger? Is that the line that we have to draw?

Republican state Sen. Bryan Hughes, the author of SB8, said he finds stories like the Wellers concerning.

A doctor should follow the standard of care, and the standard of care and Texas law says if the mothers life is in jeopardy, or serious risk to a major bodily function, which clearly would be the case you just described, he said. The doctors should do their duty to treat their patient. Nothing in Senate Bill 8, nothing in Texas law, prevents the doctor from giving that treatment.

He said he has reached out to the Texas Medical Association and other medical groups to clear up confusion about the law and is considering making the statute more specific. When the Legislature comes back into session, well be looking at that, he said.

Since the Roe v. Wade decision, doctors look at whats happening in Texas as a preview of what could come in states with bans, like Wisconsin.

I dont think its just a warning, said Crow, Melissa Janssens doctor. Its a clear indication of what is coming.

In Janssens case, Crow knew that terminating the pregnancy was the best treatment both medically and ethically, and he wasnt going to give up easily.

Crow consulted with two other physicians, who agreed that terminating the pregnancy was the best course. The hospital eventually approved, too. But it still took hours of waiting before Crow could act.

Ill be damned if some law is going to stop me, he said he remembers telling Janssen. I dont know what the consequences will be, but if it means someday this goes all the way to the Supreme Court in Wisconsin, then so be it.

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When she touched down in Paris on a flight from Kabul in the summer of 2021, Farzana Farazo vowed never to give up her feminist struggle for Afghanistan, even from exile.

But one year on, she confesses to feeling "depressed".

Like many activists fleeing Afghanistan, her hopes for the future quickly ran into an integration process fraught with obstacles.

AFP journalists first met Farazo, a former police officer, days after her arrival in France.

At the time, she was driven by her belief in the struggle for Afghan women's rights.

And she was convinced she could persist from afar, having fled for her life following the Taliban's stunning capture of Kabul that ousted the country's Western-backed leaders.

In the 20 years between the Taliban's two reigns, girls were allowed to go to school and women were able to work in all sectors -- though progress on women's rights in the deeply conservative country was largely limited to urban centres.

For Farazo, staying in Afghanistan meant a double threat to her security - which put her on a priority list for evacuation.

As a police officer she faced retaliation from Taliban fighters the government had long pursued.

She is also a member of Hazara minority, persecuted because they are Shiites in the Sunni-majority country.

Farazo, who now lives in the home of a charity worker near Paris, said she has lost the energy she felt when she first arrived in France.

For months she hardly managed to sleep at night, she said.

"Honestly, I haven't been particularly active," the 29-year old said. "Firstly because I don't speak French well enough, but also because of the different approach to activism. Here, people talk a lot."

Over the past year, she has taken French lessons, had regular meetings with a social worker, and is now waiting to be approved for housing of her own.

"I've met with a lot of difficulties," she said.

"When you don't feel good, it's hard to concentrate," she added. "Like many others, I was independent in Afghanistan. I had a job, I have an education. So to be without anything in France makes things difficult, and that can tip you into depression."

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- 'From scratch' -

The journey to integration is a long and difficult process for the activist arrivals, and one year is just not enough, said Didier Leschi, head of France's immigration and integration authority.

"But thanks to their cultural and professional networks they get more help than other Afghans who depend on the government alone," he said.

Mursal Sayas, a journalist and feminist activist, said she "got lucky" when a publisher asked her to write a book about women in Afghanistan.

"We lost everything, our country, our freedom, our achievements," she said. "We were suddenly propelled into a country where we had to start from scratch."

But Sayas said she is aware that she and her fellow exiles "have freedom of expression and the girls in Afghanistan don't", which she said made it "our duty to keep campaigning" and "denounce the injustices, the inequality, the apartheid against women".

Back home in Afghanistan women organised demonstrations during the first few months after the Taliban takeover.

But such rallies became rare after many of the demonstrators were arrested and badly beaten in prison, according to witness statements collected by Amnesty International.

Women who made it out of Afghanistan "are a source of positive energy for us", one woman in Kabul, who asked to remain anonymous, told AFP. "We know they won't forget the women in Afghanistan."

- 'Feel the pain' -

In hindsight, did Sayas make the right choice leaving her country?

"Every morning when I wake up I feel the pain of not being with my loved ones," she replied. "But it would have been worse to be captured by the Taliban and never speak to my sisters again."

As if it was not enough to be uprooted and face integration issues, these women also find that they are perceived as being worth less in their new country than back home.

"I've plunged into an identity crisis," said Rada Akbar, a graphic artist who arrived in France a year ago.

"It's going to take time to manage this, I can't just become a new person overnight," said the 34-year-old who hopes to highlight "the invisible losses" of Afghan culture under the Taliban.

The fight continues, even though her dreams have turned into "a nightmare", she said.

Since August 2021, the French government has airlifted 4,340 people from Afghanistan to France, according to interior ministry figures.

The evacuations are ongoing, "to protect Afghans who are particularly threatened", a ministry official said.

In total, more than 13,000 Afghans in France -- including people who had made their own way -- put in requests for asylum in 2021, according to the country's refugee agency OFPRA.

But NGOs say lingering red tape is making it hard not just for individual refugees to make it to France, but also for their families to follow -- with perhaps thousands waiting for their loved ones to be given French visas.

"It really should be a very simple procedure, but the authorities are very strict concerning proof of a family link, and the need for birth documents, which the Afghan authorities can't always deliver," said Salome Cohen, a lawyer for the Safe Passage charity.

sha/jh/sjw/ser
Kenyan startups raised nearly one billion dollars in the first half of 2022, surpassing what the country secured last year. Data shows that, of the big four in Africa  the quartet that includes Nigeria, Egypt and South Africa, and which receives most VC funding in the continent  Kenya has so far showed the greatest growth in funding gained this year.

This is after the East African country, through 76 deals, raised $820 million in the first half of this year, according to the Big Deal database, almost double the funding secured by the countrys startups last year. For Kenya, this represents a 422% growth in funding raised, when compared to a similar period last year -- when the country's startups raised $157 million.

The Big Deals 2021 report, placed the funding secured by Kenya for the whole of last year at $411 million while Partech's data says the country raised $571 million. On both accounts, Kenya held the fourth position in Africa in terms of funding received.

However, the latest Big Deal data, which only takes into account deals that have been made public, shows that the country is currently second after Nigeria, which has so far signed 160 deals, attracting $864 million in VC funding -- which is a 128% increase when compared to the first six months of last year. As the top VC investment destination in Africa last year, Nigeria raised nearly $1.8 billion, which is triple the funding Kenya secured.

Egypt and South Africa have emerged third and fourth in terms of funding so far this year, having secured $538 million (71 deals) and $392 million (53 deals), respectively. However, Egypt earned the second-highest gain after recording a 244% growth in the period under review. South Africa, which was the continent's second VC investment destination last year, attained a marginal 2% growth in funding raised.

The quartet accounts for 87% of the funding raised by startups in Africa.

Mega Deals in Kenya

Kenyas growth in VC funding was buoyed by an increase in the number of deals and mega-rounds  which are deals that are equal to or exceed $100 million. Two notable mega-rounds that happened by the close of June in Kenya are Sun Kings $260 million series D funding and Wasokos $125 million series B funding. Sun King is a solar provider with operations across Africa and Asia, while Wasoko is a B2B retail and e-commerce platform.

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Kenyas growth is noteworthy given that it is soaring at a time when venture capital funding continues to slow down across the globe.

On the other hand, Kenyas increased deal flow is indicative of the growing VC funding in Africa. The Big Deals data shows that Africa had by the end of June raised $3 billion, doubling what it had raised in the same period last year  despite this being a drop in the ocean when compared to other regions across the globe.

If we look at the year-on-year (YoY) evolution of quarterly funding (comparing Q2 2022 to Q2 2021), Africa is simply the only region that continued growing YoY, said Max Cuvellier, of The Big Deal in a post about funding in Africa.

Fintechs continue to attract the most funding on the continent. Africa is regarded as the worlds second-fastest growing payments and banking market after Latin America, according to this McKinsey study.
An Air Force veteran who was tired of having his pointed Facebook comments deleted on the service's senior enlisted leader's official page took the noncommissioned officer to court over being blocked online and won.

Richard Lee Rynearson III, a retired Air Force major, filed a lawsuit in August 2021 with the Center for Individual Rights -- a nonprofit legal firm based in Washington, D.C. -- and reached a settlement last week with the Air Force, changing the service's social media policy.

Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force JoAnne Bass' official Facebook page now has a new disclaimer: "Posts will not be removed, and users will not be banned, based on the viewpoint expressed in any comments."

Read Next: Space Force's Wearable Fitness Tech Plan May Have Punitive Consequences After All

The lawsuit sets a new precedent for the military's official social media accounts and serves as yet another example of the complications the Air Force faces with developing policies to determine what is considered unacceptable behavior online for officials and the public.

Rynearson's lawsuit stems from a Nov. 22, 2020, incident, when Bass' page posted a message around Thanksgiving that said, "... there's not a day that goes by that I'm not thankful for each of YOU. The people, Airmen and families, that make up the strongest Air Force in the world."

Rynearson began lamenting that the Air Force was too focused on making sure "nobody is offended or feels like a victim."

He also responded with an image of a Care Bears cartoon with the phrase, "I am thankful the phrase 'air power' has now been replaced with #CarePower."

Rynearson was blocked shortly after he posted his comments. His lawsuit from the Center for Individual Rights followed a year later.

Rynearson is a decorated veteran and received the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat "V" for a 2003 mission in which he served as the co-pilot of an AC-130U while supporting special operations forces, according to the award citation.

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After leaving the service, Rynearson has engaged in legal battles with the U.S. Border Patrol and Washington State regarding free speech and individual rights.

As part of the Aug. 3 settlement, Rynearson's access to the chief master sergeant's Facebook page was reinstated.

"Though the government is free to use big-tech platforms, it is not free to adopt big-tech's policy of silencing speech that it finds objectionable," the Center for Individual Rights said in a press release. "It is more important than ever to ensure that social media remains a place of free and open debate regardless of political viewpoint."

While the new language on Bass' Facebook page says comments won't be removed because of the opinions they voice, it does allow removal of posts "that contain obscenity, epithets, or threats, advocate or incite violence or other criminal conduct, or constitute harassment or cyberstalking."

The Air Force's official social media policy and guidelines, which were shared by a service spokesperson, do not show the amended comment language yet.

"The CMSAF Facebook page comment policy has been revised and the details are posted on the CMSAF Facebook page," the service said in a statement to Military.com. "Air Force leaders are committed to engaging in online forums to aid the understanding, trust and support of the U.S. population, allies and partners while also acting to deter, dissuade and otherwise influence adversaries."

The service did not respond to a question asking whether it believes the new policy will embolden social media trolls.

Late last year, the Department of Defense issued updated guidance on social media in an effort to weed out extremist views from the ranks. That policy articulated that service members who have been found posting, liking or sharing materials that are associated with extremist views could be punished by their commanders.

Previous Pentagon guidance prohibited service members from being members of extremist groups, but did not tackle the issue of advocating those views online. However, the line between acceptable opinions and extremist viewpoints posted online still hasn't been clearly defined by service leaders.

Maj. Holly Giroux, an Air Force intelligence officer, published an academic article about social media use in the military for Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, in late 2021.

In her research, Giroux noted that since "social media is integral to everyday life and it is unrealistic to forbid its usage, more training and education is needed amongst the officer corps regarding the gravity of partisan rhetoric on the various platforms."

But she added that guidance and policies from the services are often unclear.

"While the DOD and each individual service have released additional guidance regarding social media usage ... it is subjective and not always clear what consequences will come from violating social media guidelines," Giroux wrote.

Bass' legal battle is the latest high-profile case in which a public official's social media censorship has been scrutinized by the courts.

In 2019, a federal court in New York ruled that then-President Donald Trump's frequent blocking of critics on Twitter violated the First Amendment.

-- Thomas Novelly can be reached at thomas.novelly@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @TomNovelly.

Related: Air Force Nominee Backtracks on Automated Monitoring of Troops for Extremist Social Media Posts
Police are investigating Anne Heche for driving under the influence after she crashed her car into a home in Los Angeles on Friday.

The crash ignited a fire and almost destroyed the Mar Vista home.

Julia Jayne, founder of Jayne Law Group, P.C., explained to Fox News Digital that Heche would be charged in the crash, even if she wasn't under the influence.

"She's going to get charged," Jayne said. "They're going to try to charge her with something for that. Reckless driving at a minimum, if she's got no alcohol in her system."

Anne Heche is being investigated by LAPD for driving under the influence after she crashed her car into a home in Los Angeles. Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

ANNE HECHE IN A COMA FOLLOWING CAR CRASH: SHE HAS NOT 'REGAINED CONSCIOUSNESS,' REP SAYS

Legal experts previously told Fox News Digital that Heche could be charged with reckless driving, hit-and-run and potentially DUI.

A public information officer for the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to Fox News Digital that authorities obtained a warrant for a sample of Heche's blood on Aug. 5.

The results of the blood test are pending and the investigation ongoing. If Heche is found to have been intoxicated during the crash, she will be charged with a DUI hit-and-run, LAPD told Fox News Digital. Authorities will then present the case to the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office.

If drugs are detected in the LAPD's initial toxicology screen, authorities will have to run a confirmatory test to decide what level of drug was in Heche's system. This secondary toxicology report could take up to 30 days, according to a representative for the Los Angeles Police Department.

Jayne, a criminal defense attorney, told Fox News Digital that police taking time to investigate driving under the influence isn't "unique" to Heche's crash.

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"If there's time, send it to the lab," she said. "Get the blood test results, because also there are certain enhancements that they might want to charge depending on what the blood alcohol level is. So, it makes sense that they would do that investigation, not unique to her in any DUI case."

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Jayne explained that if the blood sample was taken within three hours of Heche's crash, the blood sample would be considered "reliable for the time of driving."

"They probably took it within that time, and that gives them some confidence," she said.

The "Donnie Brasco" actress is in "extreme critical condition" after the crash, a representative for the actress told Fox News Digital on Monday.

"She has a significant pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation and burns that require surgical intervention," the rep said. "She is in a coma and has not regained consciousness since shortly after the accident."

Heche's rep shared on Saturday that she was in "stable condition," noting that the actress' "family and friends ask for your thoughts and prayers and to respect her privacy during this difficult time."

Heche's ex-boyfriend, Thomas Jane, previously told the Daily Mail that the actress is "expected to pull through."

The actress crashed her Mini Cooper twice on Friday, with the second crash igniting a fire that left a home almost destroyed in the Mar Vista neighborhood.

Heche suffered burn injuries but was "conscious and breathing" when paramedics removed her from the vehicle.

It's unclear when the results of her toxicology report will be returned to authorities.

Heche is seen on Sept. 21, 2021, outside of Craig's in Los Angeles. Photographer Group/MEGA/GC Images via Getty Images

Video of Heche enjoying a drunken outing with friend and podcast co-host Heather Duffy resurfaced following her crash. Photographer Group/MEGA/GC Images via Getty Images

Video of Heche enjoying a drunken outing with friend and podcast co-host Heather Duffy resurfaced following her crash.

Duffy and Heche seemingly struggling to walk to their ride home after leaving Craig's in Los Angeles back in September 2021.

More recently, Heche and Duffy recorded an episode of "Better Together" where they "drank vodka" with "wine chasers." The podcast was recorded on Tuesday  three days before the near-fatal crash left Heche in a coma.

The podcast was posted on the same day as the crash, but taken down due to "innaccurate reporting" about the timing, a representative for the media told Fox News Digital.
Anne Heche is in a coma and remains in extreme critical condition after crashing her car into a Los Angeles home three days ago, a representative for the actor said Monday.

Heche, 53, has a significant pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation and burns that require surgical intervention. She is in a coma and has not regained consciousness since shortly after the accident, her spokesperson said in a statement to the press.

Mondays description of her condition is worse than previously reported. A friend and podcast partner of Heches, Heather Duffy Boylston, told The Associated Press on Saturday that the actor was in stable condition following the fiery incident.

Heche, who rose to fame acting on soap operas in the late 1980s and 1990s, sustained the injuries after crashing her car twice in Los Angeles Mar Vista neighborhood last Friday: once into an apartment building garage and a Jaguar car, narrowly missing a pedestrian, and again into another home, igniting a blaze in her Mini Cooper and in the house that took dozens of firefighters more than an hour to put out.

The actor, whose film credits include 1998s Six Days Seven Nights and 1997s Donnie Brasco, is under investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department for possibly driving under the influence.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.

Related...
Atlanta police have released images of a person of interest seen running while apparently holding a gun after a shooting at a park during a ball game on Sunday killed two people and left four others wounded, including a 6-year-old girl.

Police asked for help in identifying the person of interest from images taken at the time of the shooting near the Dunbar Recreation Center inside Rosa L. Burney Park at around 7 p.m.

"There was some type of baseball or softball game going on at the park. There was an argument that ensued and the next thing you know, there was an exchange in gunfire," Deputy Chief Charles Hampton Jr. said Sunday.

The victims of the shooting include a man in his 30s who was killed and a 6-year-old in critical condition, the deputy chief said.

HOSTAGE SITUATION AT FLORIDA NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS MEETING LEAVES 3 DEAD, INCLUDING SUSPECT: POLICE

On Monday, police said that an adult female had died of her wounds.

The other victims included two other adult females and another adult male, police have said.

No arrests have been made in connection with the shooting.

Authorities asked anyone with information about the case to contact the Atlanta Police Departments Homicide Unit at 404-546-4235.
SYDNEY (AP)  Australias most populous state took a major step toward banning Nazi symbols on Tuesday when the New South Wales Parliaments lower house passed a bill that would criminalize their display.

The bill must pass the upper chamber to become law.

Victoria, Australias second-most populous state, in June became the first in Australia to pass a law banning the public display of Nazi swastikas.

Queensland and Tasmania states have foreshadowed similar laws, which would mean half Australias eight states and territories and most of the Australian population were banned from displaying Nazi symbols.

New South Wales Attorney General Mark Speakman told Parliament on Tuesday the Nazi swastika harmed and distressed community members, including those of the Jewish faith. In 2020, New South Wales Police received 31 reports of the display of Nazi flags, including one from a home near a Sydney synagogue.

Hateful and vilifying conduct is completely unacceptable in our community, Speakman said.

Using or displaying Nazi flags or Nazi memorabilia bearing swastikas would be banned under the law.

The legislation would allow the use of the symbol for religious and education purposes. The swastika for Buddhist, Hindu, Jain and other faith communities is an ancient and sacred symbol.

Individuals would face 12 months in prison or an 11,000 Australian dollar ($7,670) fine for breaking the laws, while corporations faced AU$55,000 ($38,350) fines.

In an amendment to the legislation, a review of the laws would need to be held within a 3 1/2-year after they come into effect.

Victoria has set penalties of AU$22,000 ($15,340) and 12 months in prison for displaying the Nazi swastika.
Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), the chairman of the Republican Study Committee, is leading a group of the conservative House caucuss members for a meeting with former President Trump on Tuesday in Bedminster, N.J.

The trip was planned several weeks ago, but happens to fall just one day after the FBI executed a search warrant on Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate in South Florida.

It is likely members will discuss the FBI search, which has enraged Republicans and prompted House Republicans to vow investigations into the Department of Justice if they win the House majority in this years midterm elections.

A Republican Study Committee spokesperson confirmed the meeting.

Banks told Breitbart about the planned trip to meet with Trump last month, praising him as the most effective president in a lifetime or more.

We fully endorse the Trump agenda, and well be having a conversation with him soon about ways that we can work together to advance it, Banks said at the time.

The meeting also comes just weeks after members of the Republican Study Committee met with former Vice President Mike Pence and applauded him for showing courage on Jan. 6, 2021, despite Trumps pressure campaign to make Pence unilaterally reject electoral votes that certified Joe Bidens presidential win.

It wont be the first time the caucus has met with Trump. Members had a similar visit with Trump at his New Jersey residence last summer.

The Republican Study Committee under Banks has also brought in a broad slate of speakers, including potential 2024 presidential contenders like former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as well as figures like psychologist and author Jordan Peterson.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Bexley husband and wife have been sentenced to 80 years and 20 years, respectively, in prison for child pornography created from sexual abuse of at least three minors ages 7 to 16.

A Bexley couple has been sentenced to decades in prison for sexually exploiting at least three children, ages 7 to 16, to make child pornographic videos and photos.

Stephen Wilson, 39, was sentenced Monday in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio to 60 years in prison for the sexual exploitation of minors. His wife, 38-year-old Jessica Wilson, was sentenced to 20 years after being convicted on charges of distributing and receiving child pornography.

The couple was accused of creating child pornographic videos and images, which they later discussed in text messages with one another.

Cameras inside the couple's home, in addition to Stephen Wilson's cell phone, were used to create videos and still images of Wilson sexually abusing the children, according to court documents.

Wilson created one 22-minute child pornographic video by drugging a female minor with alcohol and ecstasy and raping her while she was semi-conscious to unconscious, documents state.

In another incident, records state Wilson showed a 7-year-old child pornography of himself and his wife while using a handheld camera to film his genitalia near the child's face.

The U.S. Attorney's office said in a release that Wilson created hundreds of still images from the videos he took of himself sexually assaulting the minors, and also possessed hundreds of other images depicting the sexual abuse of children  some as young as toddlers.

Additionally, Wilson was found to be in possession of at least 25 photos where he had photoshopped his genitalia onto images of minor children, including prepubescent and toddler aged females, to give the effect of those children engaging in sexual activity with him, the release said.

Court documents state Jessica Wilson was present during or aware her husband was engaging in the sexual assaults and creation of child pornography. The couple exchanged numerous child pornography files and discussed them in text conversations.

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Jessica Wilson also asked her husband where she could access child pornography online, according to some of the thousands of text messages law enforcement authorities recovered from between the two of them.

The pornographic images the Wilsons exchanged involved children as young as one to eight months old, the U.S. Attorney's office said.

Get more political analysis by listening to the Ohio Politics Explained podcast

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Bexley couple to spend decades in prison for sexual exploitation, porn
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden formally welcomed Finland and Sweden joining the NATO alliance Tuesday as he signed the instruments of ratification that delivered the U.S.'s formal backing of the Nordic nations entering the mutual defense pact, part of a reshaping of the European security posture after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

In seeking to join NATO, Finland and Sweden are making a sacred commitment that an attack against one is an attack against all," Biden said at the signing as he called the partnership the indispensable alliance.

The U.S. became the 23rd ally to approve NATO membership for the two countries. Biden said he spoke with the heads of both nations before signing the ratification and urged the remaining NATO members to finish their own ratification process as quickly as possible.

The Senate last week approved the two, once-non-aligned nations joining the alliance in a rare 95-1 vote that Biden said shows the world that "the United States of America can still do big things with a sense of political unity.

The countries sought out NATO membership earlier this year to guarantee their security in the wake of Russian President Vladimir Putin's offensive in Ukraine. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization's rules require the consent of all of its 30 existing members before Finland and Sweden can officially accede into the alliance, which is expected in the coming months.

The candidacies of the two prosperous Northern European nations have won ratification from more than half of the NATO member nations in the roughly three months since the two applied. It marks one of the speediest expansions of the pact of mutual defense among the United States and democratic allies in Europe in its 73-year history.

U.S. State and Defense officials consider the two countries net security providers, strengthening NATOs defense posture in the Baltics in particular. Finland is expected to exceed NATOs 2% gross domestic product defense spending target in 2022, and Sweden has committed to meet the 2% goal.

Sweden and Finland applied to join NATO in May, setting aside their longstanding stance of military nonalignment. It was a major shift of security arrangements for the two countries after neighboring Russia launched its war on Ukraine in late February. Biden encouraged their joining and welcomed the two countries government heads to the White House in May, standing side by side with them in a display of U.S. backing.

The U.S. and its European allies have rallied with newfound partnership in the face of Putins military invasion, as well as the Russian leaders sweeping statements this year condemning NATO, issuing veiled reminders of Russias nuclear arsenal and asserting Russias historical claims to territory of many of its neighbors.
By Jeff Mason and Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed documents endorsing Finland and Sweden's accession to NATO, the most significant expansion of the military alliance since the 1990s as it responds to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Biden signed the U.S. "instrument of ratification" welcoming the two countries, the final step for their endorsement by the United States.

"It was and is a watershed moment I believe in the alliance and for the greater security and stability not only of Europe and the United States but of the world," he said of their entry into the post World War Two alliance.

The U.S. Senate backed the expansion by an overwhelming 95-1 last week, a rare display of bipartisan unity in a bitterly divided Washington. Both Democratic and Republican Senators strongly approved membership for the two Nordic countries, describing them as important allies whose modern militaries already worked closely with NATO.

The vote was a sharp contrast with some rhetoric in Washington during the administration of former Republican President Donald Trump, who pursued an "America First" foreign policy and criticized NATO allies who failed to reach defense spending targets.

Sweden and Finland applied for NATO membership in response to Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine. Moscow has repeatedly warned both countries against joining the alliance.

Putin is getting "exactly what he did not want," with the two countries entry into the alliance, Biden said.

NATO's 30 allies signed the accession protocol for Sweden and Finland last month, allowing them to join the nuclear-armed alliance once all member states ratify the decision.

The accession must be ratified by the parliaments of all 30 North Atlantic Treaty Organization members before Finland and Sweden can be protected by Article Five, the defense clause stating that an attack on one ally is an attack on all.

Ratification could take up to a year, although the accession has already been approved by a few countries including Canada, Germany and Italy.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle and Jeff MasonEditing by Mark Heinrich and Grant McCool)
President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed NATO accession protocols for Finland and Sweden, moving the defense alliance closer to adding two wealthy, militarily advanced members amid Russias ongoing assault on Ukraine.

Bidens approval followed overwhelming support from both chambers of Congress earlier this summer, with the Senate ratifying the agreement last week. Efforts to welcome the two Nordic countries to the treaty have received bipartisan support, with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell last week calling their admission a slam dunk for national security.

Finland and Sweden have skirted military alliances in the past, but quickly moved to apply for NATO membership in May, a few months after Russian forces invaded Ukraine. NATO ambassadors ratified the accession protocols in July, and member states are currently in the process of doing the same.

Together with our allies and partners, were going to write the future we want to see, and in a moment when Putins Russia has shattered peace and security in Europe  when autocrats are challenging the very foundations of a rule-based order  the strength of the transatlantic alliance and Americas commitment to NATO is more important than its ever been, Biden said before signing the protocols in the East Room on Tuesday afternoon.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has been staunchly opposed to any NATO expansion, calling it an imperialistic threat. But analysts say that the war in Ukraine has had the unintended consequence of strengthening the alliance amid fears that Russia could attack other nearby countries. Finland shares an 800-mile border with Russia.

Putin thought he could break us apart when this all started, Biden said. Instead, hes getting exactly what he did not want.

Any European country may join NATO as long as it demonstrates that it can meet membership obligations such as military and economic contributions. That includes putting at least 2 percent of its GDP toward national defense and agreeing to NATOs collective defense rule, a mechanism that requires members to come to one anothers defense in the event of an attack.

Finland and Sweden are slated to become NATOs 31st and 32nd member states. The most recent NATO enlargement came in March 2020, when North Macedonia joined the group. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia and Ukraine have also stated their interest in joining.


Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those impacted by the flooding in Kentucky.

Today the shop will be sending off its first truck of donated supplies to Jackson, Kentucky, to help with recovery efforts after major flooding hit the area.

The shop will be continuing to accept new donations now until Friday.

>>Kentucky Flooding: Bills Donut Shop is accepting donations to help in the recovery

The following items are needed:

Cleaning supplies

Rubber gloves

Rubber boots

Shovels

Trash bags

Disinfectant

Toothpaste

Toothbrushes

Soap

Baby supplies

Diapers and wipes

New socks and underwear

Paper products

Personal hygiene products

Deodorants

Whenever something catastrophic like this happens, people call us to see if we are going, said co-owner of Bills Donuts Lisa Tucker.

Dayton Childrens Hospital donated a truck and a driver and will be delivering more donations Friday.

Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those affected by the flooding in Kentucky.

Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those affected by the flooding in Kentucky.

Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those affected by the flooding in Kentucky.

Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those affected by the flooding in Kentucky.

Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those affected by the flooding in Kentucky.

Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those affected by the flooding in Kentucky.

Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those affected by the flooding in Kentucky.

Bills Donut Shop in Centerville is sending off donated supplies that will be sent to those affected by the flooding in Kentucky.
Billboard is expanding its global footprint in Asia. On Monday (Aug. 9), Billboard announced the launch of Billboard China along with plans for its rollout.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of a new Billboard chart in China, Billboard President Mike Van said in a press release announcing the news. We look forward to providing a platform for Chinese musicians to share their art and unique sound amongst a global audience. Today marks the beginning of another exciting chapter in our brand evolution and we are eager to witness the proliferation of new artists shaping pop culture.

More from Billboard

Billboard China adds to the list of the publications international editions and music content in Asia, following Billboard Japan and Billboard Korea. Per the press release, Billboard will work closely with local industry partners in China to develop offerings geared toward Chinese music fans. The new edition will additionally aid in bringing global pop music to Chinese fans and expose Chinese artists and music to an international audience.

Billboard China will also launch with the Master Collection, which will serve as a bank of resources from industry leaders such as music critics, producers and artists to deliver a professional perspective on Chinese music.

The first official cover story for Billboard China is set to be published and unveiled later this week and will be shared on Billboards website and social media accounts; the feature story  in addition to a teaser video and portrait pictures  will be shared on Chinese microblogging website Weibo, which has a reported 582 million users.

Click here to read the full article.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday said the United States was "concerned" by "credible" reports that Rwanda is supporting rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The resurgence of the M23 group in Congo's restive east has exacerbated tensions between the neighbours, with Kinshasa accusing Kigali of backing the rebels.

Blinken was speaking in the Congolese capital Kinshasa, where he arrived on Tuesday for the second leg of a three-nation African tour and met President Felix Tshisekedi.

Rwanda has denied the allegations and Blinken is due to visit the country following a one-day stay in the DRC.

"We are very concerned by credible reports that Rwanda has supported the M23," the top US diplomat told a press conference in Kinshasa.

"All countries have to respect their neighbours' territorial integrity. Any entry of foreign forces into the DRC must be done transparently and with the consent of the DRC."

Blinken added that he was "not turning a blind eye" and would discuss the issue with Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

He said his trip to the region was to ensure US support for mediation efforts led by Angola and Kenya "to prevent further violence, to end conflict (and) to preserve the territorial integrity of the DRC".

He spoke after visiting South Africa on Monday, where he said the United States was seeking a "true partnership" with Africa.

- Strained relations -

The DRC is seeking international support as it struggles with Rwanda over the M23, a primarily Congolese Tutsi group that is one of many operating in the troubled east.

After lying mostly dormant for years, the rebels resumed fighting late last year, seizing the strategic town of Bunagana on the Ugandan border in June and prompting thousands of people to flee their homes.

In a 131-page report to the UN Security Council seen last week by AFP, experts said Rwandan troops had intervened militarily inside the DRC since at least November.

Rwanda also "provided troop reinforcements" for specific M23 operations, the experts' report said, "in particular when these aimed at seizing strategic towns and areas".

Story continues

Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula on Tuesday urged the United Nations to make the report public.

"We demand the Security Council publish (this) report in its entirety," he said.

Kinshasa and Kigali have had strained relations since the mass influx of Rwandan Hutus accused of slaughtering Tutsis during the 1994 Rwanda genocide.

Relations began to thaw after Tshisekedi took office in 2019 but the M23's resurgence has revived tensions.

The group, also known as the "March 23 Movement", first leapt to prominence in 2012 when it briefly captured the city of Goma before a joint Congolese-UN offensive drove it out.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has led an initiative to disarm the active rebel groups, while Angolan counterpart Joao Lourenco has worked to ease tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali.

- Rwanda and M23 -

Blinken arrived in Kinshasa from South Africa, where he said the United States was seeking a "true partnership" with Africa and was not vying with other powers for influence on the continent.

Tshisekedi was to "raise the questions of strategic partnership" between the DRC and the United States during his meeting with Blinken at the presidential palace, his office said in a statement Monday.

On the eve of Blinken's swing through the DRC and Rwanda, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged him to condemn the M23 attacks and press Rwanda on its rights record, which included a "brutal" crackdown on dissent.

"As in 2012, the M23 are committing war crimes against civilians," said a HRW statement.

"Witnesses described summary killings of at least 29 people, including children, in June and July... The US should raise with Rwanda the reliable reports that it is again supporting the M23's abusive conduct in eastern Congo."

The M23 is just one of scores of armed groups that roam eastern DRC, many of them a legacy of two regional wars that flared late last century.

One of the bloodiest militias is the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) -- an organisation the Islamic State group describes as its "Central Africa Province" affiliate.

The US State Department placed the ADF on its list of IS-linked "terrorist" organisations in March 2021.

bur/imm-ah/jj
Kevin Gates and Brittany Renner bared all during a recent Twitter exchange that had fans quick to stir up comments about the potential couple.

I want to be held and penetrated passionately  Brittany Renner (@brittanyrennerr) August 6, 2022

A year after Gates curved the influencer, the duo got explicit while flirting on Twitter. Renner opened up about her womanly needs.

I want to be held and penetrated passionately, Renner tweeted.

Wasting no time, Gates replied, When? offering his assistance to Renner.

Renner replied to the Khaza artist saying she wanted it immediately.

Right now, she tweeted.

Yes, mam, Right away, mam, Gates said in his reply, adding the hashtag #D**kAlliNYoStomach at the end of his tweet.

Recently Renner and Gates shared an Instagram Live of them in a car, flirting and amping up what was about o go down once the camera went off.

Audio of Kevin Gates and Bundle Of Brittney. Part 1 pic.twitter.com/VbLIXy5w4k  INSTA: @gossipofthecitytea (@GOTCITYTEA) August 9, 2022

The two did not hold back when sharing little details about their new romance; lets say they have a healthy sex life as he questions Renner if she misses his tongue in certain places.

Story continues

Last month, Renner shared a video of Gates holding her after his performance at Rolling Loud, which she described as a full-circle moment.

My 1st RollingLoud was Miami 2019, and the only person I wanted to see perform was @iamkevingates. Last night was a full circle moment for me! Kevin, I love you. You are an amazing person and have been my greatest teacher, she captioned the post.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brittany Renner (@bundleofbrittany)

Gates seemed happy, using his new beau as his latest muse. The release of Khaza included a few references to Renner, including a mention on his single Super General and being his leading lady in the Bad For Me music video.
Law enforcement officials investigating the 2016 disappearance of 63-year-old Simon Powell have found what they believe to be human remains in a pond in Burke County.

Weeks after draining a pond on Highway 56, officials with the Burke County Sheriff's Office have ended their search of the location.

"We were able to find what we believe to be human remains buried in the muck of the pond," Capt. Jimmy Wylds said in the release.

Previously: 2nd person arrested, charged with murder in Burke County cold case disappearance of Simon Powell

More: Deputies search pond in Burke County after arrest is made in cold case

Evidence was sent to the GBI crime laboratory, police said.

Timeline of search, two men charged

Simon Powell, of Augusta, was last seen on June 1, 2016. His burning truck was found the next day, according to previous Augusta Chronicle reporting.

On July 13, Burke County Sheriffs Office investigators arrested and charged Stacey Welch, 38, in connection to Powell's disappearance and murder.

Recently: With double homicide conviction sheriff hopes other slayings will be solved

Shortly after Welch's arrest, Burke County investigators began searching the large pond in attempt to find Powell's remains.

On July 21, the U.S. Marshals Office arrested Mitchell Lanell Lambert, 39, in Cummings, Georgia. Lambert, who is from Waynesboro, has been charged with murder, kidnapping and armed robbery in connection to Powell's death.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Possible remains of cold case victim found in Burke County GA pond
Associated Press

Republican Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey and backers of universal school vouchers took a victory lap Tuesday over legislation the Republican-controlled Legislature enacted in June giving the state the nation's most expansive voucher system, and he also used the time to attack backers of public schools who are trying to block the measure at the ballot. Ducey touted the signature bill he signed in July that gives all Arizona parents the ability to take state money that would go to their local public school and instead use it for private school tuition or other education costs. The governor had a ceremonial signing at a central Phoenix Christian school that already gets large benefits from the state's tax credit donation programs and existing school voucher program.
NASA astronaut Josh A. Cassada, (captain, U.S. Navy, Ph.D.) will be headed to the International Space Station next month.

CHARLEVOIX  Northern Michigan will soon have a representative among the global contingent living aboard the International Space Station.

As the pilot for an upcoming SpaceX Crew-5 mission next month, Charlevoixs Josh Cassada, 49, will be one of four astronauts to spend six months aboard the ISS.

The team represents a global collaboration, with two NASA astronauts  Cassada and Spacecraft Commander Nicole Mann  and also JAXA (Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Koichi Wakata and Russian cosmonaut Anna Kikina.

Cassada is the husband of Charlevoix native Megan (Friedly) Cassada. Megan graduated from Charlevoix High School in 1993 and is the daughter of the late John and Marilyn Friedly. When they are in town, Megan and Josh reside on Belvedere Avenue with their two boys, Quinn and Graham, in a home that was originally purchased and restored by her parents.

Prior to his selection to join NASA in 2013, Cassada served as a test pilot in the U.S. Navy, and has over 3,500 hours in more than 40 aircraft, and 23 combat missions. In August 2018, he was selected for CTS-1, the first operational mission of the Boeing CST-100 Starliner, but subsequently reassigned to SpaceX Crew-5.

He earned a bachelor of arts degree in physics from Albion College in 1995. He later earned a master of arts degree (in 1997) and a doctorate (in 2000) in physics with a specialty in high energy particle physics from the University of Rochester in New York.

While orbiting Earth aboard the ISS, Cassada will be conducting numerous experiments that, among other things, include a cold atom lab that enables insights into "quantum mechanics at a macroscopic scale."

In a press conference last week attended by the Courier, he spoke about his excitement for the experiments, saying, We are really lucky. We get to do all kinds of science."

More: NASA blog on SpaceX Crew-5 mission

Story continues

More: subscribe for the most interesting local news

When not in Charlevoix, the family resides in Clear Lake, Texas  a small community south of Houston that is home to NASAs Johnson Space Center.

However, during an exclusive interview with the Courier, Cassada spoke fondly of the community that is his wifes hometown, describing it as our place.

The family visits their Belvedere home as often as they can, traveling in a small plane they recently purchased that Cassada pilots.

Cassada said we talk pretty openly about the risks involved with his children regarding his job, while also saying anything worth doing isnt going to be without risk.

He said their annual months-long summer visits to Charlevoix are part of the reason his children wont take his six-month stint in space so hard.

It happened accidentally ... when they are (in Charlevoix) and I couldnt be up there for two months at a time ... during that time we chat like we are doing now, said Cassada, referring to the Zoom interview.

Now its a natural thing, he said, adding that he will be able to communicate regularly to his children during his time in space on a video conference call.

The SpaceX Crew-5 is planned to be the fifth crewed operational NASA Commercial Crew flight of a Crew Dragon spacecraft, which Cassada will be piloting.

The International Space Station is the largest modular space station currently in low Earth orbit. It is a multinational collaborative project involving five participating space agencies: NASA (United States), Roscosmos (Russia), JAXA (Japan), ESA (Europe), and CSA (Canada), according to NASA.

The ownership and use of the ISS is established by intergovernmental treaties and agreements, according to NASA. The station serves as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory in which scientific research is conducted in astrobiology, astronomy, meteorology, physics and other fields.

The mission is planned for launch in September.

Contact reporter Annie Doyle at adoyle@charlevoixcourier.com

This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Charlevoix man heading to International Space Station with SpaceX
The Daily Beast

Photo Illustration by Kelly Caminero / The Daily Beast / GettyAt the risk of awarding the title prematurely, we think weve found the weirdest study published in 2022. Scientists strapped GoPro cameras to the bodies of six dolphins trained by the U.S. Navy, and recorded them hunting for food and consuming their prey in grisly detail. According to the study, there was a purpose behind this potential invasion of dolphin privacy; namely, to learn more about how the mammals hunted and ate.Scientists
SHANGHAI (Reuters) - China's corruption watchdog said on Tuesday regulators were investigating three former and current executives linked to a firm that manages the country's largest state-backed chip investment fund, widening a probe that has rattled the sector.

Du Yang, a former director of investment firm Sino IC Capital and Yang Zhengfan, a current deputy manager, are suspected of committing serious violations of discipline and law and are being probed by teams from the Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the CCDI said in a statement.

Liu Yang, a former general manager at Sino IC Capital, is suspected of committing law violations and is being investigated by the Beijing authorities, it said.

It did not disclose more details. Reuters was unable to reach Du, Yang and Liu for comment via Sino IC Capital, which did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Two companies, Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment and Piotech, issued statements disclosing that Yang was a director on their boards and that the investigation would not affect their operations.

Sino IC Capital manages assets belonging to the China Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund, also known as the "Big Fund", which China launched in 2014 with the aim of spurring its semiconductor industry to leapfrog the likes of the United States, Taiwan and South Korea.

The latest probes follow earlier ones announced into a former head of Sino IC Capital and the head of the Big Fund in July and earlier this month.

The Big Fund raised 138.7 billion yuan ($20.54 billion) for its first fund, and 204 billion yuan for its second fund.

Over the years, the fund has provided financing to Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation, China's leading chip foundry, Yangtze Memory Technologies Co Ltd YMTC, a maker of flash memory, and a number of smaller companies and funds.

($1 = 6.7520 Chinese yuan renminbi)

(Reporting by Brenda Goh; editing by David Evans)
BEIJING (Reuters) - China's new yuan loans are expected to fall back in July after record lending in the first half, a Reuters poll showed, but they are still likely to exceed the year earlier amount as the central bank seeks to underpin the economic recovery.

Chinese banks are estimated to have issued 1.10 trillion yuan ($162.81 billion) in net new yuan loans last month, less than half the 2.81 trillion yuan in June, according to the median estimate in the survey of 23 economists.

It would still be higher than the 1.08 trillion yuan issued in the same month a year earlier.

Chinese banks doled out 13.68 trillion yuan in new loans in the first six months of 2022, the highest first-half number on record, central bank data showed.

"While loan supply remained ample, in contrast to policymakers' strong push to accelerate loan growth in June (quarter-end month), commercial banks might feel relatively less urgency in extending loans in July as it is the first month of a quarter," analysts at Goldman Sachs said in a note.

"Government bond issuance also slowed materially as the majority of full-year local government special bond issuance quota were fulfilled by June this year."

The world's second-largest economy barely grew in the second quarter as widespread COVID-19 lockdowns hammered demand and business activity.

China will try hard to achieve the best possible results for the economy this year, a high-level meeting of the ruling Communist Party said last month, tempering previous calls that it will strive to meet its 2022 growth target.

Analysts expect the central bank to keep policy accommodative to support the economy's recovery as several factors, including slowing global growth and cost pressures, drag on overall output.

Goldman Sachs expects the central bank to cut banks' reserve requirement ratio (RRR) - the amount of cash that banks must hold as reserves - later this year.

Outstanding yuan loans were expected to grow by 11.2% in July from a year earlier, the same as in June, the poll showed. Broad M2 money supply growth in July was seen at 11.4%, also at the same pace as in June.

Story continues

Local governments issued a net 3.41 trillion yuan in special bonds in the first six months, the finance ministry data show, as authorities accelerated special bond issuance for infrastructure to prop up the economy.

China has set the 2022 quota for local government special bond issuance at 3.65 trillion yuan, unchanged from last year.

Any acceleration in government bond issuance could help boost total social financing (TSF), a broad measure of credit and liquidity. Outstanding TSF rose 10.8% in June, up from 10.5% in May.

In July, TSF is expected to fall sharply to 1.30 trillion yuan from 5.17 trillion yuan in June.

(Polling by Devayani Sathyan; Reporting by Judy Hua and Kevin Yao; Editing by Shri Navaratnam)
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) on Tuesday called the FBIs execution of a search warrant at former President Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida fair game, adding that he hopes more information about the cause of the search will be revealed soon.

The FBI entered the Palm Beach property on Monday after securing a search warrant from a federal magistrate judge. Trump did not detail what the warrant sought, but complained that agents who searched his property even broke into my safe.

Its fair game, and you just have to display probable cause to a federal judge that  there are contents in that safe that would assist in proving a violation of the law, Christie said in an interview with Sirius XMs Julie Mason.

Its not anything thats out of bounds to go into a safe, and it happens frequently in federal law enforcement. But again, you have to have the factual underpinnings to be able to convince a federal judge that you need and have the right to do that.

The search warrant comes as the Justice Department ramps up its probe into the Jan. 6, 2021, attacks on the U.S. Capitol and homes in on the former presidents attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.

However, The New York Times reported Tuesday that the search was separate from that probe.

The search in part appears to be in connection with Trumps failure to turn over some presidential records at the end of his term. Authorities previously retrieved 15 boxes of documents from Mar-a-Lago, a tranche that included classified materials.

Christie, harkening to his tenure as a U.S. attorney in New Jersey, said he trusts the search warrant affidavit was examined by FBI Director Christopher Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland, for something really as unprecedented as raiding the home or office of a former president.

This is not something that you should be doing willy-nilly. This is something that should be backed up by grave concerns about the conduct of the subject of the search warrant, he added.

Story continues

Christie said he hoped the FBIs search warrant affidavit would be publicly disclosed to help quell concerns about an unfounded search.

Seeing this search warrant affidavit, the affidavit that underlies the request for the search warrant from the judge, is going to be the most important document for everyone to see, Christie said.

The former governor was an ally of Trump during his presidency, but has since become a frequent critic of the former president, calling his midterm endorsements emotional decisions and accusing the Republican National Committee of doing Trumps bidding.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Nike off-cut is seen in a kiln located in Kandal province (Thomas Cristofoletti Ruom for Unearthed)

Cambodian factories are exposing workers to toxic fumes by burning cloth scraps from fashion giants such as Nike, Ralph Lauren, Reebok, Diesel, Next, and Clarks, it has been alleged.

An investigation by Unearthed, a Greenpeace UK journalism project, claims factories in the country are using tags, labels, footwear, fabric, and garment scraps to fuel brick kilns.

Workers move dried slabs of clay by hand into the kilns to manufacture bricks, where they burn for a couple of days in temperatures reaching up to 650C.

Unearthed claims the incineration of garment waste, which commonly contains toxic chemicals, endangers the health of kiln workers, causing coughs, colds, flu, nose bleeds and lung inflammation.

The project also says it raises the carbon footprint of clothes destined for Europe and the US.

The report quotes Dr Laurie Parsons of UKs Royal Holloway University who co-authored a seminal 2018 report exposing the practice of garment incineration in Cambodian kilns.

WATCH: Our latest investigation into the burning of fashion waste from some of the world's leading brands and the negative health impact it is having on bonded workers in Cambodia.



You can also read our full story here: https://t.co/AaLUVEuBHs https://t.co/2JzT93rOq3  Unearthed (@UE) August 8, 2022

He said: The burning of acrylic garments, especially when combined with plastic bags, hangers, rubber and other waste as occurs in Cambodia, releases plastic microfibres and other toxic chemicals into the immediate environment which compromise the health of workers and neighbours on a short- and long-term basis.

The human impacts, in particular, are substantially worse than burning wood and have been highlighted in a recent UK parliamentary report as a major problem in the industry.

Story continues

A Clarks spokesperson told Unearthed: We are conducting a thorough investigation and believe we have identified the potential source.

We believe this incident to be an exceptional occurrence. Our ongoing investigation has led us to believe that in accordance with our code of practice for suppliers, waste from the relevant Cambodian factories was provided to a government-approved waste services company.

A Michael Kors spokesperson said: We strive to produce our products in an environmentally responsible manner, and to partner with suppliers to reduce emissions, waste and other environmental impacts of our products and will reiterate to our suppliers our expectations around proper collection and disposal of garment waste.

A Next spokesperson said: Under clause 8.5 of the Next Standard Terms and Conditions of Purchase, suppliers cannot dispose of rejected, seconds, excess, samples or cancelled stock unless stock is sold through the Next clearance routes and that it appears this breach could possibly have taken place due to their suppliers in Cambodia not adhering to the policy.

OTB Group, the parent organisation for Diesel, said that OTB constantly monitors the supply chain and the brand is no longer producing garments in Cambodia.

They added that no evidence has emerged on the subject from the recent internal review we carried out with our former and only supplier active in the Country in 2020-21.

Michael Kors, Reebok, and Nike have all been approached for a comment by The Independent.
The Daily Beast

Pascal Deloche/Godong/Universal Images Group via GettyA Texas school district has pulled dozens of challenged books from its library shelvesincluding the Biblejust before the start of the academic year under a new policy introduced by conservative leaders.Attached is a list of all books that were challenged last year. By the end of today, I need all books pulled from the library and classrooms, Keller Independent School District executive curriculum director Jennifer Price instructed princip
KINSHASA (Reuters) - A former right-hand man of Democratic Republic of Congo's president and now opposition leader, Jean-Marc Kabund, was arrested on Tuesday, his lawyer said, during controversy over a remark about his onetime boss.

The former vice president of parliament and current lawmaker had a falling out with President Felix Tshisekedi earlier this year, after which he launched his own political party.

He has been under investigation in recent weeks on charges that authorities have not specified.

His lawyers say he is accused of contempt of the head of state after a speech calling him "a danger".

Kabund's lawyer Henriette Bongwalanga said he was arrested on Tuesday after a hearing at the attorney general's office.

"They did not respect the procedure. Today they came after the hearing and (arrested) him despite his (parliamentary) immunity," she said.

The justice ministry could not be reached for comment and a spokesperson for the government declined to comment.

A police source said Kabund had been taken to Makala Central Prison in Congo's capital Kinshasa.

Kabund was a leading figure behind Tshisekedi's rise to power and their fallout has highlighted emerging fault-lines in the country's leadership. This could spell uncertainty for the future of the ruling Sacred Union coalition as the 2023 presidential election nears, political analysts have said.

In a statement about the proceedings last week, Kabund said the investigation against him was proof that Congolese institutions were being exploited to serve political interests.

"Fighting the Tshisekedi regime is an absolute necessity for me, no matter the price to be paid," he wrote on Twitter.

(Reporting by Stanis Bujakera; Writing by Nellie Peyton; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
FRANKFURT (Reuters) - The crypto exchange Nuri GmbH has filed for insolvency with a Berlin court, the company said in a statement on Tuesday, the latest in a string of failures to hit the sector.

The company, founded in 2015, said the sell-off in the cryptocurrency market, the bankruptcy of the Celsius network, and uncertainty in financial markets forced it to take the step.

It said customers would still have access to their deposits.

Handelsblatt first reported the development.

(Reporting by Marta Orosz; writing by Tom Sims; Editing by Christph Steitz and David Evans)
USA Network

Kevin Owens has been on a mission for months to prove that Ezekiel is really just Elias in disguise, but that mission got a whole lot more complicated last night on RAW. Two weeks ago, Kevin Owens was set to face off one-on-one in a match with Ezekiel. Instead, Owens jumped Ezekiel before the match even started. He tossed him out of the ring before PowerBombing him onto the ring apron and sending him to the hospital. Last night, before Owens could even attempt to convince fans that Ezekiel didn
Dayton Police Department issued a warning to the public after they said they have seen a significant increase in car thefts.

DPD said that thieves may be using a method that 2011 or newer Kia vehicles and 2015 or newer Hyundai vehicles with physical keys are especially susceptible to.

>> Police: OnStar leads Moraine officers to truck reported stolen; 4 taken into custody

They provided suggestions to help keep you car safe:
The United States has greenlighted the largest military assistance package to Ukraine thus far, preparing to send $1 billion in ammunition for advanced rocket systems, vehicles and explosives to help the country beat back the Russian invasion.

Well detail whats in the latest package and how its helping Kyiv, plus more on new Russian casualty estimates, extended Chinese wargames near Taiwan, a recovered fighter jet that blew off an aircraft carrier last month, and the next step for the soon-to-be-signed bill addressing toxic exposure for veterans.

This is Defense & National Security, your nightly guide to the latest developments at the Pentagon, on Capitol Hill and beyond. For The Hill, Im Ellen Mitchell.

Want a copy of this newsletter in your inbox? Subscribe here.





Pentagon unveils more lethal aid for Ukraine

The Pentagon on Monday announced a $1 billion military assistance package for Ukraine, aid in the form of ammunition for advanced rocket systems, vehicles and explosives to help in its fight against Russia.

The new assistance package will include ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), as well as 75,000 rounds of 155 mm artillery ammunition and 50 armored medical treatment vehicles, according to a Defense Department statement.

Biggest ever: It is the largest single drawdown of U.S. arms and equipment utilizing this authority, and this package provides a significant amount of additional ammunition, weapons, and equipment  the types of which the Ukrainian people are using so effectively to defend their country, according to the statement.

The U.S. government has now approved nearly $10 billion in security assistance for Ukraine over the course of 18 packages since August 2021.

Also coming soon: The latest weapons tranche coincides with a newly announced $4.5 billion in humanitarian aid for the Ukrainian government, the Treasury Department announced Monday. That funding will be given to Ukraine in batches, beginning with a $3 billion disbursement this month.

Story continues

What else is in it: The latest lethal aid package will also include 20 120 mm mortar systems and 20,000 rounds of 120 mm mortar ammunition; munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems; 1,000 Javelin and hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems; claymore anti-personnel munitions; C-4 explosives, demolition munitions, and demolition equipment; and medical supplies, according to the Pentagon.

Read the full story here





RUSSIA HAS SEEN 70,000-80,000 CASUALTIES SINCE INVASION

Russias military has suffered roughly 70,000 to 80,000 casualties since it first attacked Ukraine in late February, the Pentagons top policy official said Monday.

The Russians are taking a tremendous number of casualties, Colin Kahl, Defense Department under secretary for policy, told reporters.

Theres a lot of fog in war but I think its safe to suggest that the Russians have probably taken 70 or 80,000 casualties in the less than six months. Now, that is a combination of killed in action and wounded in action and that number might be a little lower, a little higher, but I think thats kind of in the ballpark, Kahl said.

Earlier estimates: The Russian casualty figure is higher than previous U.S. estimates. CIA Director William Burns late last month estimated that 15,000 Russians have died in Ukraine and some 45,000 have been wounded.

Burns admitted, however, that intelligence estimates of battlefield casualties are always a range, and theres no perfect number.

Remarkable: Kahl said that number of Russian casualties is remarkable given that Moscow has achieved none of Vladimir Putins objectives since invading Ukraine six months ago.

He attributed the stark numbers to Ukrainian morale and will to fight, which he said is unquestioned, and much higher, I think, than the average morale and will to fight on the Russian side.

Read that story here





Biden not worried as China extends wargames

President Biden on Monday said hes not worried about Chinas aggressive response to Speaker Nancy Pelosis (D-Calif.) trip last week to Taiwan, adding that he doesnt think things will escalate any further between the U.S. and Beijing.

Im not worried, but Im concerned that theyre moving as much as they are. But I dont think theyre going to do anything more, Biden told reporters.

Ongoing military drills: The Biden administration has condemned Beijings live-fire drills in the waters surrounding Taiwan, which included multiple Chinese warships and aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, following Pelosis visit.

They are provocative, irresponsible, and raise the risk of miscalculation, thats what the president was referring to, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Monday, referring to Chinas response.

They are also at odd with our longstanding goal of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan strait, which is what the world expects, she added.

China announced new military drills around Taiwan on Monday.

Earlier: Pelosis visit to Taipei last week made her the highest-ranking U.S. official to visit the island in 25 years. The Chinese foreign ministry characterized her visit as having a severe impact on the political foundation of China-U.S. relations.

Read more here





Navy recovers F/A-18 that fell into Mediterranean

An F/A-18 fighter jet that was blown off the deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman into the Mediterranean Sea during bad weather last month has been recovered, the Navy announced Monday.

The more than 32,000-pound F/A-18E Super Hornet, which costs roughly $50 million, was recovered from a depth of 9,500 feet, according to a Navy statement.

How it was salvaged: A team of U.S. 6th Fleet, Task Force 68, Naval Strike Wing Atlantic and Naval Sea Systems Command retrieved the aircraft last Wednesday using a remote-operated vehicle that placed a special line on the jet.

A crane-lifting hook attached to a ship was then lowered to the seafloor and connected to the rigging, allowing it to lift the aircraft to the surface and hoist it onboard.

An unusual incident: The Navy recovered the F/A-18 27 days after it was swept off the deck of the Truman on July 8 as the ship was conducting a resupply mission in unexpected heavy weather.

The incident is highly unusual as the Navy has methods in place to withstand heavy weather and prevent such mishaps, including chaining down aircraft.

It was not clear if such methods were used at the time of the accident, and the service did not release the exact location where the jet was lost or recovered.

Whats next?: The aircraft was delivered to an unnamed, nearby military installation to be prepared for transport to the United States, according to the Navy.

An investigation into how the aircraft was first lost has been launched.

Read the full story here





THE NEXT BATTLE FOR VETERANS

Veterans clinched a victory after the Senate passed a bill that would expand medical coverage for former service members with toxic exposures. But after a long-fought battle with no shortage of last-minute drama, their work is far from over.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) must now implement the legislation efficiently amid concerns of the departments poor track record and existing backlogs.

Coming soon: President Biden is expected to sign into law the Sgt. First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act on Wednesday, which will expand access to VA health care and benefits for veterans who were exposed to toxins during war.

The VA is already encouraging veterans to apply for benefits. But moving forward, veterans service organizations and other experts say the department will have to buckle down if it wants to implement the legislation as smoothly as possible.

Read more here





ON TAP TOMORROW

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Mark Milley will deliver remarks at the change-of-command ceremony for Marine Gen. Michael Langley who takes over as U.S. Africa commander from retiring Army Gen. Stephen Townsend at 4 a.m., to be replayed at 10 a.m.

Lt. Gen. Dan Karbler, head of U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, and Gen. James Dickinson, commander of U.S. States Space Command, will speak on Day 1 of the Space and Missile Defense Symposium beginning at 9 a.m.

The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace will hold a discussion on New Nuclear Troubles in Southern Asia? at 10 a.m.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) will speak on his Asia trip with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) at a Washington Post Live event at 5 p.m.





WHAT WERE READING

Thats it for today! Check out The Hills Defense and National Security pages for the latest coverage. See you tomorrow!





VIEW THE FULL EDITION HERE

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
MarketWatch

Announced at the start of the pandemic in March 2020, the payment pause has been extended and even expanded several times, including four extensions ordered by Biden himself. As of mid-August, speculation was rampant that Biden would grant another extension, but the Department of Education wasnt making any promises, other than telling The New York Times that the departments review of broad-based debt cancellation remains ongoing and no decisions have been made. In the meantime, student loan debtors are advised to prepare for resuming their monthly loan payments.
(Bloomberg) -- Dominos Pizza Inc.s footprint in the home of Pizza proved to be short lived with Italians favoring local restaurants over the American version.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The last of Dominos 29 branches have closed after the company started operations in the country seven years ago. It borrowed heavily for plans to open 880 stores, but faced tough competition from local restaurants expanding delivery services during the pandemic and sought protection from creditors after running out of cash and falling behind on its debt obligations.

The US chain entered Italy in 2015 through a franchising agreement with ePizza SpA and planned to distinguish itself by providing a structured national delivery service along with American-style toppings including pineapple.

Its ambitious expansion ran into trouble as traditional pizza makers scaled up deliveries or signed deals with third-party services such as Deliveroo Plc, Just Eat Takeaway.com NV or Glovo to bring their products to customers homes while restrictions prevented dining out.

We attribute the issue to the significantly increased level of competition in the food delivery market with both organized chains and mom & pop restaurants delivering food, to service and restaurants reopening post pandemic and consumers out and about with revenge spending, ePizza said in a report to investors accompanying its fourth-quarter 2021 results.

US and Italian representatives for ePizza and Dominos didnt respond to messages seeking comment. Calls to all 13 remaining Dominos locations in Italy went unanswered. The company had already reduced operations in the country from its peak in 2020 and stopped offering delivery from its website on July 29.

Story continues

Still, the closures came as a surprise to some of its customers, who turned to the chains Italian social-media channels questioning why their calls and orders werent going through or why their local store had shut.

It followed an April tribunal in Milan that granted the company court protection against creditors for 90 days, according to an ePizza filing. The measures, which prevented lenders from demanding debt repayment or seizing company assets, expired on July 1. There have been no further updates on the court process, according to tribunal e-filings or the Italian Chamber of Commerce.

The company had 10.6 million euros ($10.8 million) of debt at the end of 2020, according to the latest audited annual reports.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2022 Bloomberg L.P.
Dominos Pizza officially shut down its shops in Italy, after locals favoured their native restaurants over the American fast-food chain.

The last 29 pizza shops just closed, nearly seven years after the company launched its first location in the country, says a reported in Bloomberg. Dominos had initially planned to open up to 880 stores in Italy.

When the chain first entered Italy in 2015, through an agreement with ePizza, it also aimed to use its American-style toppings and well-structured delivery service to stand out amongst its competitors.

However, when traditional and local pizza stores offered even more delivery options throughout the pandemic, Dominos faced even bigger competition.

We attribute the issue to the significantly increased level of competition in the food delivery market with both organised chains and mom & pop restaurants delivering food, to service and restaurants reopening post pandemic and consumers out and about with revenge spending, ePizza said in an investment report, attached with its fourth-quarter 2021 results, acquired by Bloomberg.

Dominos operations have also encountered some financial issues over the years. The company had a debt of 10.6 million euros by the end of 2020.

In April, the restaurant chain received court protection, which prevented lenders from demanding debt repayment or seizing company assets. However, that protection expired on 1 July.

Following the shut down of its Italy-based stores, people on social media have expressed how they are not surprised to see the American-based chain leave Italy.

Trying to open Dominos Pizza in Italy is like trying to sell snow in the North Pole, one Twitter user wrote.

If you ever feel youre being outrageously over-confident about something, just remember that Dominos thought theyd be able to justify opening 880 stores in Italy, another added.

Hilarious to think that Dominos thought they could conquer Italy. Did they actually compare their distinctly-average-but-extortionate pizzas to an authentic Napoletana? Madness https://t.co/v4jNiyOTzW  Laurie Macfarlane (@L__Macfarlane) August 9, 2022

If you ever feel you're being outrageously over-confident about something, just remember that Dominos thought they'd be able to justify opening 880 stores in Italy. https://t.co/hCIVJGLwfV  Damon (@damonspencer) August 9, 2022

Trying to open Dominos Pizza in Italy is like trying to sell snow in the North Pole. https://t.co/X52M3bzfs2  Alicia Smith (@Alicia_Smith19) August 9, 2022

A third person said: Hilarious to think that Dominos thought they could conquer Italy. Did they actually compare their distinctly-average-but-extortionate pizzas to an authentic Napoletana? Madness.

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When Dominos opened its first restaurant in Milan back in October 2015, the company expressed how its shops would be using all local ingredients.

We are purchasing all of our products from Italian producers. Weve created our own recipe, starting for the original pizza recipe, with Italian products, like 100 percent tomato sauce and mozzarella, Alessandro Lazzaroni, lead of the franchise, said in a press release at the time, via CNBC.

The Independent reached out to Dominos Pizza for comment.
Ciro De Luca/Reuters

ROMEIn a move that many will consider in good taste, American pizza maker Dominos is closing the last of its 29 branches in Italy after a dismal appearance on the Italys rather hard-to-beat food scene.

Twitter applauded the news with one user summing it up: went all the way to Italy to taste a slice of Domino's #SaidNoOneEver. Another bid farewell: Goodbye, please never come back with your atrocious imitations of pizza: we dont need them, we have the real deal, we invented it!

The Daily Beast predicted this fiasco when the American pie maker first opened, scoffing at the idealism of Alessandro Lazzaroni, who led the charge. Dominos is a global brand, with American roots, and were proud to be able to introduce it to the Italian peoplewith a twist, he said then. We will be using a recipe created by us, using locally-sourced wheat. Everything else is purely Italian. While they did use Italian products, their plan to reinvent Italian pizza with their own recipe clearly wasnt what Italians were looking foror, it seemswhat tourists wanted either.

Dominos had high hopes when it opened its first branch in 2015, with plans to open 880 stores and bring what was then almost unheard of home delivery service to the nation. But the pandemic opened up new avenues for food delivery, and soon Italians realized their own pizza tastes just as good delivered to the door.

Dominos Pizza Comes to Italy (And Is Doomed to Fail)

Unlike McDonalds, Kentucky Fried Chicken andalasStarbucks, which have had success in this cuisine-crazy country, Dominos offered nothing Italians wanted, especially American-style toppings like pineapple, cheese-stuffed crust and pepperoni (close to the Italian word for peppers).

Dominos entered the Italian market with ePizza SpA, which had relied on home delivery. We attribute the issue to the significantly increased level of competition in the food delivery market with both organized chains and mom & pop restaurants delivering food, to service and restaurants reopening post pandemic and consumers out and about with revenge spending, ePizza told investors in late 2021 when it became clear things were starting to fizzle, according to Bloomberg.

Story continues

The company ePizza filed for protection against creditors in April that expired on July 1, leaving them $10.8 million in debt the company is now up for grabs among its creditors.

Dominos has had success in other countries, and currently has strong business in 85 nations. Italy would have surely been a feather in the companys cap had it succeeded. Instead, not even the crust is left on this ill-advised venture.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Emmett Till was kidnapped, tortured, beaten and shot before his body was tied to fan blade and weighed down in a river in Mississippi in 1955.

The men who killed the 14-year-old Black boy were acquitted by an all-white jury. They admitted to their crimes in a magazine interview a few months later. Both men have since died.

Nobody has been convicted for Tills death, which galvanised a civil rights movement and attracted nationwide attention to lynchings and racist killings of Black Americans, underscoring the brutal legacy of segregation and shadows of Jim Crow-era violence.

His mother Mamie Till-Mobley, who died in 2003, was pictured in a defining image at his open casket funeral in Chicago. I wanted the world to see what they did to my boy, she said at the time.

Nearly 70 years later, on 9 August, a grand jury in Leflore County declined to indict Carolyn Bryant Donham, who was 21 years old when she testified in court that Till sexually harassed her inside a store.

In June, an unserved warrant charging Ms Donham along with her then-husband Roy Bryant and brother-in-law JW Milam was discovered in a county courthouse basement. After Tills murder, Ms Donham was never taken into custody or charged with any crime in the decades that followed.

Following several hours of testimony from investigators and witnesses, a grand jury determined there was not enough evidence to indict Ms Donham on charges of kidnapping and manslaughter, making it unlikely that the now-88-year-old woman or any other figures tied to the case will face prosecution for Tills death.

The murder of Emmett Till remains an unforgettable tragedy in this country and the thoughts and prayers of this nation continue to be with the family of Emmett Till, District Attorney Dewayne Richardson said in a statement.

#NoTrueBill for #CarolynBryantDonham

Her actions, and the unserved warrant proves her culpability.#JusticeForEmmettTill Continues

We will Never Give Up#EmmettTill's death will not be in Vain

We will keep our promise to #MamieTillMobley and hold any accomplice accountable. pic.twitter.com/gTGgucZ8VC  EmmettTillLegacyFdn (@EmmettTill) August 9, 2022

The Rev Wheeler Parker Jr, Tills cousin and the last living witness to his abduction in 1955, said in a statement that the grand jurys decision is unfortunate, but predictable.

Story continues

The prosecutor tried his best, and we appreciate his efforts, but he alone cannot undo hundreds of years of anti-Black systems that guaranteed those who killed Emmett Till would go unpunished, to this day, he said.

The fact remains that the people who abducted, tortured, and murdered Emmett did so in plain sight, and our American justice system was and continues to be set up in such a way that they could not be brought to justice for their heinous crimes.

The lynching of Emmett Till

The year before Emmett Till was killed while visiting relatives in Money, Mississippi, the US Supreme Court overturned the separate but equal doctrine in its landmark Brown v Board of Education case to end legal segregation. Cities and states across the US resisted the court with violence and in protracted legal battles that took decades to resolve, with their legacies imprinted in private schools that fought integration and in deteriorating public school systems nationwide.

More than 6,500 people, mostly Black Americans, were killed in racist attacks between 1865 and 1950. That time period encompassed the aftermath of the US Civil War and emancipation, white militia terror during Reconstruction, and the years surrounding the Civil Rights movement, according to the Equal Justice Initiative.

In the year after the Supreme Courts ruling in the Board case, several public acts of racist violence in Mississippi preceded Tills killing. The Rev George Lee  the first Black man to register to vote in Humphreys County in decades  was fatally shot for doing so. In Lincoln County, Lamar Smith was shot to death for telling people to register.

Author Timothy Tyson holds a copy of his book on the lynching of Emmett Till, in which (AP)

In the early hours of 28 August, 1955, Roy Bryant and JW Milam kidnapped Till at gunpoint from his uncles home and brought the 14-year-old to Ms Donham to identify.

Ms Donham, according to an unpublished memoir viewed by the Associated Press, claimed that she did not recognise Till.

After Tills uncle Mose Wright reported his abduction to the Leflore County Sheriff, Mr Bryant and Mr Milam were arrested on Aug 29 and held in jail without bond on kidnapping charges.

Two days later, Tills body was pulled from the Tallahatchie river.

Federal investigators open  and close  two cases

In 2004, the US Department of Justice opened an investigation to potentially weigh state-level charges in the case, though a grand jury declined to issue any indictments in 2007, and federal prosecutors closed their inquiry.

A federal investigation reopened in 2018 following the publication of Timothy Tysons The Blood of Emmett Till. The author said Ms Donham told him in a 2008 interview that her trial testimony was false  though her family has denied that she ever recanted her testimony.

The Justice Department renewed its probe after Ms Donham also denied to the FBI that she ever recanted her testimony and provided no information beyond what was uncovered during the previous federal investigation, according to federal prosecutors.

Federal prosecutors closed the investigation a second time in December 2021, claiming to find no new evidence suggesting that either Ms Donham or any other living person was involved in Tills abduction and murder.

Even if such evidence could be developed, no federal hate crime laws existed in 1955, and the statute of limitations has run on the only civil rights statutes that were in effect at that time, the agency said in a statement.

As such, even if a living suspect could now be identified, a federal prosecution for Tills abduction and murder would not be possible, according to investigators.

Carolyn Bryant is pictured in a 1955 photograph. (AP)

In March, the office of Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch also said investigators were unlikely to open another case.

This is a tragic and horrible crime, but the FBI, which has far greater resources than our office, has investigated this matter twice and determined that there is nothing more to prosecute, chief of staff Michelle Williams said in a statement.

But the discovery of the warrant for Ms Donhams arrest  which the Leflore County sheriff did not issue at the time because he did not want to bother her  amounted to new evidence, according to the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation.

Ms Donham, who was most recently living in North Carolina, has not publicly commented on recent calls for her prosecution. Her actions and the unserved warrant proves her culpability, according to the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation.

Tills death will not be in vain, the group announced on social media following the grand jury announcement on 9 August. We will keep our promise to [Mamie Till-Mobley].

More than a century after such legislation was first introduced, President Joe Biden signed the Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act into law, making lynching a federal hate crime.

The law designates lynching as a crime punishable by up to 30 years in prison. It passed the House of Representatives on 7 March by a vote of 433-7 and cleared the US Senate by unanimous consent.
Fox News

Fox News host Sean Hannity on Monday let Eric Trump complain at length about the political persecution of his father after the FBI raided Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trumps Florida home, reportedly in search of documents that may have been kept in violation of the Presidential Records Act.

The former presidents son accused the Biden administration of orchestrating the raid, a claim that the White House denied, according to a Politico correspondent, saying it had no advance knowledge.

Sean, this didnt come from the little local FBI field office in Palm Beach, Florida. You know who this came from. This came from one place and one building, and that is the White House in Washington, D.C., Trump said.

To have 30 FBI agentsactually more than thatdescend on Mar-a-Lago, give absolutely no notice, go through the gates, start ransacking an office, ransacking a closet they broke into a safe. He didnt even have anything in the safe, Trump claimed. I mean, give me a break. And this is coming from, what, the National Archives?

In February, the National Archives informed Congress that upon leaving office, Trump took with him to Florida documents that were marked as classified, and that NARA staff were communicating with the Justice Department on the matter.

Eric Trump didnt seem concerned that the FBI would find anything that pertains to the investigation, though. When a skeptical Hannity asked what documents could possibly rise to that level of requiring a warrant-authorized search of an ex-presidents home, Trump said the FBI might instead find personal correspondences between family members, some nice headlines, and maybe a nice note from you, Sean.

Prior to Eric Trumps appearance, several commentators on Fox as well as Hannity himself responded to this unprecedented development by criticizing Hunter Biden and Hillary Clinton. Trumps grievance-filled remarks fell along the same lines.

After decrying how, as his father put it in a post on Truth Social, They even broke into my safe, Trump brought up Joe Bidens son.

Story continues

And yet Hunter Biden, he did firearms crimes, prostitution, illegal drugs, you know, shady deals with everybody around the world. And by the way, its all in his laptop for the whole world to see, Trump said. Where are these FBI agents? Where is everybody? Why is it that the arrows only fly at Donald Trump and his family? Why is it that the political persecution only goes one way in this country?

He continued: When do you give up? When do you say enough is enough? When do you give a human being who fought so hard for this countrywhen do you give them the benefit of the doubt?

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Kallas said entry into the EU was a privilege, not a human right

Kallas said entry into the EU was a privilege, not a human right, suggesting that the bloc is under no obligation to allow Russian citizens in.

Read also: No applications for Ukraine visa from Russia since introduction of visa regime, says FM Kuleba

Air travel from Russia is shut down, said Kallas.

It means while Schengen countries issue visas, the neighbors of Russia carry the burden (Finland, Estonia, and Latvia, as sole access points). Time to end tourism from Russia now.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy earlier urged the EU to do the same, saying that only then they (the Russians) would understand.

Read also: Russian citizens forbidden to visit Vincennes Castle in France due to war in Ukraine

They say: we have nothing to do with this war, Zelenskyy said in an interview with the Washington Post.

The entire population could hardly be held responsible, they argue. But they could. The population elected this government and isnt opposing it, isnt arguing with it, isnt shouting at it... This is the only way to influence (Russian dictator Vladimir) Putin.

Ukraine suspended visa-free travel for Russian citizens on July 1.

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Last month, U.S. Africa Command hosted its premier multilateral exercise, African Lion 22, involving 7,500 coalition forces from 10 nations across the Maghreb and West Africa. This year, beyond the usual roars of Moroccan and Senegalese lions, USAFRICOMs foremost exercise was augmented by those of another pride: Israeli lions. Further promoting the Israeli-Moroccan partnership  made possible by the 2020 Abraham Accords  would allow the United States to multiply its strategic footprint in Africa without diverting resources from other theaters.

Africa has emerged as a lynchpin of the global strategic balance of power. Renewed strategic competition and the proliferation of violent extremist organizations threaten to undermine the integrity of African states and key U.S. strategic interests. At the same time, these challenges present an opportunity for Morocco  Americas oldest treaty ally and a historical Maghrebi power  to come into its own as a regional leader and stability provider with the help of newfound Israeli technical and security support.

Following decades during which the United States focus has been diverted to other regions, U.S. competitors have achieved significant military entrenchment in Africa at the expense of the stability and political-economic independence of African countries. Beijing now refers to Africa as Chinas second continent, according to AFRICOM commander Gen. Stephen Townsend.

Beyond its military inroads, China hopes to fuel its geoeconomic rise with African natural wealth, for example by increasingly monopolizing Africas rare earth minerals needed for the batteries and chips necessary for any green revolution. Meanwhile, Russian mercenaries are driving civil conflicts and military juntas across the continent.

Pentagon reviews removing Morocco as host of largest military exercise in Africa

At the sub-state level, Africa has seen a historic rise in violent extremist activity, destabilizing local African countries and creating openings for encroachment by U.S. competitors. The Sahel has become the global epicenter of jihadi extremist activity  with violent extremist organizations seizing territory and local economies, fomenting displacement crises, and compelling threatened regimes to turn to Russian and Chinese assistance. Iran also exploits this trend by equipping Islamic violent extremist organizations throughout Africa, from Somalia to West Africa.

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The burgeoning Israeli-Moroccan partnership, with proper U.S. leadership and nurturing, can help address Africas great power and violent extremist challenges as well as unlock the continents promise.

Since their 2020 rapprochement, Israel and Morocco have taken significant steps toward balancing against the threat from Russia- and Iran-backed Algeria via their groundbreaking $500 million air defense deal in February 2022. Moreover, Morocco has become the largest source of foreign direct investment in West Africa, beating out even rising Chinese capital. By crowding out Chinese investments, an extension of Chinese military power, Morocco is helping to roll back Chinas implicit challenge to U.S. security interests and local autonomy in these areas.

Morocco has also long stood out among the Islamic and African nations as a leader in counterterrorism, especially within the U.S.-led war on terror. If properly paired with Israeli counterterrorism expertise, Morocco is uniquely positioned to be a bulwark against terrorism in the Sahel and in Francophone Africa, where Moroccos regional and Islamic credibility make it a fitting partner to take over from withdrawing French peacekeepers.

However, realizing the full potential of Israeli-Moroccan cooperation in Africa will require short-term U.S. investment and continuous U.S. strategic focus and political support. Despite their impressive progress, Israel and Morocco both lack certain advanced military systems and capital needed to fully operationalize their partnership. Likewise, the partnership itself is contingent on the U.S. respecting its commitments vis-a-vis the Western Sahara, which undergirded the 2020 Israel-Morocco normalization agreement.

A B-1B Lancer bomber from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, fly with Royal Moroccan Air Force F-16 and F-5 aircraft off the coast of the African nation on June 30, 2022, in support of African Lion.

The United States should provide more opportunities for these two partner militaries to train side by side. This should include upgrading Israel to full participation in African Lion  as well as incorporating Israel into other regional multilateral exercises  to optimize interoperability between Israel, Morocco and other regional partners. This is a crucial first step toward establishing a functional, semiautonomous security network.

The U.S. should also triangulate preexisting regional frameworks, such as the Utah National Guard State Partnership Program with Morocco and the bilateral agreement between the National Guard Bureau and the Israel Defense Forces, to maximize space for Israeli-Moroccan military coordination.

The Biden administration should also uphold Trump-era commitments to the Moroccans Western Sahara Autonomy Proposal  the critical underpinning for Israel-Morocco normalization  which have been rapidly adopted by the international community in recent months, reducing potential blowback from the policy.

Finally, the United States should help boost Moroccos military-industrial capability. Most immediately, this entails equipping Morocco to overcome the menace of Russian and Iranian destabilization via Algeria, including fulfilling pending sales of precision-guided munitions and MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones. More broadly, the Biden administration should review short-term funding to help Israel and Morocco rapidly scale up their partnership in security, not to mention critical stability-providing domains like food, water and energy security.

These steps will not only allow Israel and Morocco to lead the way for a partner-led regional security strategy, but they will also create the stable geopolitical space necessary to unlock the potential of Israeli-Moroccan partnership in critical technological and financial domains. In a moment of both historic instability and opportunity, equipping our Middle Eastern and North African security partners to jointly shoulder the burden holds the key to setting a new course of mutual prosperity for the region.

Retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. H. Steven Blum served as deputy commander of U.S. Northern Command from 2008-2010 and as chief of the National Guard Bureau from 2003-2008. In 2015, he was a participant in the Jewish Institute for National Security of Americas Generals and Admirals Program. Samuel B. Millner is a policy analyst at JINSA.
FX's Justified revival can't seem to catch a break.

An unidentified person threw an explosive device toward the set of Justified: City Primeval during production in the South Loop neighborhood of Chicago on Monday night. The Chicago Police Department told EW the object did not explode, and no injuries were reported. While police declined to identify the production, ABC Chicago reported it was City Primeval.

FX didn't immediately respond to request for comment Tuesday.

The incident comes three weeks after the series halted production when two non-production drivers engaged in a gunfight and smashed through barricades set up for the show. No one was injured, but the cast and crew, including star Timothy Olyphant, hit the ground and took cover during the incident. FX chairman John Landgraf addressed the July 21 ordeal at the virtual Television Critics Association press tour earlier this month.

Timothy Olyphant on 'Justified'

Prashant Gupta/FX Timothy Olyphant on 'Justified'

"I think it was a pretty traumatic experience for the cast and crew to be anywhere near that kind of gunfire," he said. "A lot was done to sort of take a break and make sure everyone was okay. And we were glad that no one was injured and we reconstituted ourselves with even more security We are glad that we were able to get back to production safely."

Olyphant is reprising his role as Deputy U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens in City Primeval, which is inspired by the events of Elmore Leonard's novel City Primeval: High Noon in Detroit. The revival will pick up eight years after Givens left Kentucky behind. He now resides in Miami, "a walking anachronism balancing his life as a U.S. Marshal and part-time father of a 14-year-old girl" (played by Olyphant's daughter, Vivian), per the official synopsis.

A chance encounter will send Givens to Detroit, where he crosses paths with Clement Mansell, "a violent, sociopathic desperado who's already slipped through the fingers of Detroit's finest once and aims to do so again." Along with Mansell's lawyer, a "formidable Motor City native" named Carolyn Wilder, "these three characters set out on a collision course in classic Elmore Leonard fashion, to see who makes it out of the City Primeval alive."

Story continues

Aunjanue Ellis, Boyd Holbrook, Adelaide Clemens, Vondie Curtis Hall, Marin Ireland, Norbert Leo Butz, Victor Williams, and Ravi Patel will also star in the revival.

Related content:
Ezra Miller, pictured in 2018, has been charged with felony burglary. (Evan Agostini / Invision / Associated Press)

Actor Ezra Miller once again has run afoul of the law. This time, the "Fantastic Beasts" and "The Flash" star has been charged with felony burglary in Stamford, Vt.

On Monday, the Vermont State Police published a report that details Miller's latest alleged crime. On May 1, officials were notified of a home burglary complaint on County Road in Stamford. Police officials allege that Miller, who has a home in Vermont, stole "several bottles of alcohol" from the home "while the homeowners were not present."

"As a result of an investigation that included surveillance videos and statements, probable cause was found to charge Ezra M. Miller with the offense of felony burglary into an unoccupied dwelling," the report said.

Nearly three months after the incident, police found Miller, who uses they/them pronouns, late Sunday night and issued a citation for them to appear in Vermont Superior Court Bennington Criminal Division on Sept. 26 for an arraignment.

In the report, Vermont police confirmed that the Ezra Miller in question is indeed the "Flash" actor, but their representatives did not immediately respond to The Times' request for comment.

The burglary charge is the latest misstep for the embattled actor. In 2020, Miller was captured on video allegedly grabbing a fan by the throat in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Earlier this year, Miller was arrested twice in Hawaii, including an incident in which they allegedly threw a chair at a woman's head. Miller was also accused of brainwashing and "endangering the safety and welfare" of an 18-year-old in North Dakota.

Allegations against the "Justice League" actor continue to pile up, but seemingly have no sway on Miller's future projects. Miller is still set to star in Warner Bros.'s upcoming "The Flash" film, which is set to premiere on June 23, 2023.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A Nebraska teenager and her mother are facing a handful of felonies after state officials alleged the girl self-managed an abortion, but told police shed miscarried after 28 weeks.

Prosecutors are resting much of their case on Facebook messages exchanged between the 18-year-old and her mother, which they say shows the two discussing the proper method for the daughter to take medicine that would terminate her pregnancy.

Facebooks parent company, Meta, turned the data over in June in response to a search warrant seeking the daughter and mothers information, including their private messages and their internet search history.

Messages between the two, released in court documents obtained by Motherboard, show them discussing plans, including how they intended to dispose of the fetus afterward by burning and burying it.

Daughter: Are we starting it today Mother: We can if u want the one will stop the hormones Daughter: Ok Mother: Ya the 1 pill stops the hormones an rehn [sic] u gotta wait 24 HR 2 take the other Daughter: Ok Daughter: Remember we burn the evidence

Abortion in Nebraska is illegal if the fetus is more than 20 weeks post-fertilization, with limited exceptions in the case of life endangerment. (Nebraska did not have a trigger law in place, like several other states, to outlaw abortion entirely if Roe v. Wade fell.)

According to the court documents, police in Norfolk obtained the teens medical records as a result of a tip in late April that she had miscarried. When officers interviewed the girl and her mother three days after the miscarriage, they told a detective shed had a stillbirth and voluntarily showed the officer where theyd buried the fetus.

At that time, the detective says he noticed the teen, who was 17 at the time, had used Facebook Messenger to communicate with her mother the night of the stillbirth. Having seen the app on her phone, he decided to serve Meta/Facebook with a search warrant for information from both their accounts.

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Facebook defended its actions, noting in a statement that it was a valid warrant related to a criminal investigation and made no mention of abortion.

But internet watchdogs say thats no defense, casting the incident as yet another in a long string of Metas privacy failures.

These companies hypocritical surveillance practices make them complicit in the criminalization of people seeking, facilitating, and providing abortions, said Caitlin Seeley George, the managing director of Fight For The Future, a nonprofit digital advocacy group.

George urged Meta to make end-to-end encrypted communication on Facebook the default for all messages sent on the platform, as it already has for WhatsApp, another product Meta owns.

Doing so will literally save pregnant peoples lives, she said.

The daughter and mother each face one felony charge of removing, concealing or abandoning a dead human body, and two misdemeanors: concealing the death of another person, and false reporting.

The teenager also has been charged with two additional felonies: performing or attempting to perform an abortion at more than 20 weeks, and performing an abortion as a non-licensed doctor.

Medication abortion is a safe and effective way to terminate pregnancy. Planned Parenthood says abortion pills are used to terminate pregnancy at 11 weeks or earlier, after which an in-clinic procedure is recommended.

Even before Roe fell, most states in the U.S. restricted abortion after fetal viability, which is generally considered to be about 24 weeks. In 2019, less than 1% of abortions were performed after 21 weeks, CDC data shows.

Self-managing an abortion is not illegal in the U.S. Only Nevada, South Carolina and Oklahoma have laws on the books criminalizing people for self-managing abortions, but legal experts caution that its unclear if those laws would even stand up in court if challenged today.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.

Related...
The claim: Disney+ lost 350,000 subscribers in a week

A meme being shared on Facebook claims Disney+ lost 350,000 subscribers in a week.

350,000 cancellations of Disney+ in the past week, reads the text of the meme, which is accompanied by a political cartoon.

A July 16 post has been shared more than 1,500 times and accumulated more than 10,000 reactions, and a July 20 post has been shared more than 400 times.

But the claim isn't accurate. Disney's latest quarterly financial report shows Disney+ gained 7.9 million subscribers in the first three months of the year. The company does not share information about the number of subscribers to its streaming service aside from those reports, the company said in a statement to USA TODAY.

Disney has recently faced criticism from conservatives, some of whom have threatened to boycott the company for taking a public stance on Florida's Parental Rights in Education law, known to critics as the "Don't Say Gay" law.

Follow us on Facebook! Like our page to get updates throughout the day on our latest debunks

USA TODAY reached out to several users who shared the claim for comment.

Cinderella Castle inside Magic Kingdom Park is lit on October 11, 2020 at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

Disney streaming service gained subscribers

The 7.9 million subscribers gained by Disney+ in the first three months of the year brought the total number of subscribers up to 137.7 million as of April 2, up from 103.6 million a year earlier, according to the company's latest financial report.

Disney, though, recently made headlines for reasons unrelated to the growth of its streaming service.

In late March, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Parental Rights in Education bill, known to critics as the "Don't Say Gay" bill, restricting classroom discussion of sexual orientation or gender identity. Disney, which is Florida's largest private employer, was initially criticized for its response to the legislation, but has since called for it to be repealed.

DeSantis, a Republican, criticized "woke" Disney's position on the legislation, saying the company bought into false narratives about the bill.

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"You have companies like a Disney that are gonna say and criticize parents' rights, they're gonna criticize the fact that we don't want transgenderism in kindergarten and first-grade classrooms," he said.

Fact check: Post claiming Disney lost $2.4 billion is stolen satire

DeSantis went a step further in late April when he signed legislation that revoked Disneys self-governing authority, canceling privileges given to the company decades ago to govern the land surrounding its Florida-based theme park. The law, which takes effect in June 2023, will cost Disney tens of millions of dollars a year.

The claim that Disney+ lost subscribers, along with other claims of Disney's downfall, comes after some conservatives threatened to boycott Disney in response to its criticism of the "Don't Say Gay" law.

Our rating: False

Based on our research, we rate FALSE the claim that Disney+ lost 350,000 subscribers in a week. Disney does not share information about subscribers outside of quarterly financial reports. The company's latest report shows Disney+ gained 7.9 million subscribers in the first three months of the year.

Our fact-check sources:

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or electronic newspaper replica here.

Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fact check: Disney+ has gained subscribers, not lost them
The Daily Beast

Tennessee Department of CorrectionA woman who shared a kiss with a prisoner during a visitation in Tennessee has been charged with murder after the inmate died shortly after their exchange.Rachel Dollard was taken into custody over the weekend by special agents from the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) and the Dickson County Sheriffs Department, the TDOC confirmed in a statement on Tuesday. She is accused of smuggling drugs into the Turney Center Industrial Complex.Dollard is facing ch
August means parents everywhere are prepping backpacks and lunchboxes, and picking out the first-day outfits in anticipation of a new school year.

Four generations! Theresa Grudzinski (right) poses with her mother, Giovanna Bernardon, son, Mike, and granddaughters, twins Harper and Amelia. (Courtesy Mike Grudzinski, Giovanna Bernardon, and Theresa Grudzinski)

While back-to-school fanfare has evolved over the years, some traditions  including mixed emotions about returning to the classroom  have been felt for decades.Just ask the Bernardon-Grudzinski family.

Giovanna Bernardon, 88, of Syracuse, New York, told TODAY Parents that going back to school was an exciting time for her. An avid reader, Bernardon said just going back to school and learning was the best part.

I would read toilet paper if they wrote on it, Bernardon joked. "Anything I had to read I would read into the middle of the night and my mother would take the light bulb out of my bedroom light. She was afraid I'd go blind, which happened many years later."

Bernardon recalled one time her father's own love of reading worked to her advantage.

"My father love to read too," she explained, "He put the light bulb back in my bedroom and said 'Don't read too late, mom doesn't like it.'"

As for back-to-school outfits, it was blouses and skirts or dresses.

Girls did not wear slacks, Bernardon told TODAY of attending public school in the late 1930s and early 1940s.

Bernardon recalled one situation where long pants were necessary: winter months living in upstate New York.

I had a skirt in my locker in high school. I wore ski pants to school, because we walked, and when I got to school, I had to go to the ladies room right away and switch into a skirt, she said. And I had to reverse it to go home.

Giovanna Bernardon poses for a school photo

Bernardon's daughter, Theresa Grudzinski, 67, of Syracuse told TODAY Parents her biggest back-to-school memory was picking out an outfit for the first day.

I remember going shopping with my grandmother and she would always pick out our school outfit and buy us our first day of school outfit, and I was always very excited about it, Theresa Grudzinski said. We always get our new shoes there too. It was a one stop shop.

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Theresa Grudzinski in fourth grade. (Courtesy Theresa Grudzinski)

Theresa walked to school. Her son, Mike Grudzinski, 39, also attended school in Syracuse and told TODAY Parents he was "definitely excited" to go back to school when summer was over and his favorite subjects were math and science.

"It was just what I found interesting and challenging," he shared.

Mike Grudzinski on his first day of kindergarten. (Courtesy Mike Grudzinski)

While Mike told TODAY Parents he can't recall his exact emotions in his kindergarten photo, he remembers back-to-school photos.

"I (gave) the typical kid eye roll, because it was always like 'OK, we need a picture over here. We need to do this. We need to do that'," Mike Grudzinski explained. "And I was like, 'Can I just go now?'"

Mike is now a parent himself trying to capture back-to-school photos of his 6-year-old twin daughters, Harper and Amelia.

Harper and Amelia Grudzinki got a little silly for the camera in their 2021 back-to-school photos. (Courtesy Mike Grudzinski)

Harper told TODAY Parents she feels "kind of scared" to return to school in a few weeks.

"It's a whole different building and I don't really know around that building. It's much bigger," Harper said of starting second grade.

Sister Amelia said she feels excited.

"I can't wait to make new friends and meet my new teacher," Amelia said.

Though they are twins, the girls have differing opinions about outfits and favorite subjects. When it comes to back-to-school clothes, Harper told TODAY she prefers shorts over dresses, and Amelia likes the color pink.

Harper is looking forward to gym.

"I like because we get to do lots of different activities," Harper told TODAY.

Amelia is eager to get back to science.

"We get to do new things every day in science," Amelia said.

The girls will not be in the same classroom this year, which upsets Harper.

"Harper is very sad," Amelia told TODAY.

While their great-grandma and grandmother walked to school, and their dad "mostly" walked to school, the twins are charting a new path.

"We are riding the bus," Harper said.
Alex Drueke adopted his dog, Diesel, a 100-pound part-mastiff, from Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter. Alex's mother, Lois Bunny Drueke, said that every time Drueke has been allowed to call from captivity, he has asked about Diesel.

A dog adoption event will be held Saturday in Tuscaloosa to raise awareness of the plight of two Alabama men captured while fighting with the Ukrainian Army.

Alex Drueke of Tuscaloosa and Andy Huynh of Hartselle were taken captive in early June in the Donetsk region of Ukraine. According to the U.S. Department of State, Drueke and Huynh are prisoners of war detained by Russian-controlled forces in an unspecified location.

The Drueke family is sponsoring the dog adoption event in partnership with Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at Forest Lake United Methodist Church, 1711 Fourth Ave.

Were calling it Big Dogs, Big Hearts because both Alex and Andy love big dogs, said Dianna Shaw, Druekes aunt. Its got a double meaning too  Alex and Andy went to Ukraine because they have big hearts for the Ukrainian people who are giving their all to preserve their democracy,

This undated photograph provided by Dianna Shaw shows U.S. military veteran Alexander Drueke of Tuscaloosa, Ala., and his mother, Lois "Bunny" Drueke. Two Americans captured while fighting with the Ukrainian Army apparently have been sent to a prison where they are spending all their time together, the family of one of the men said. Alex Drueke, who was captured with fellow veteran and Alabama resident Andy Huynh in early June, told his mother about the transfer in a telephone call, according to a statement issued late Thursday by the Drueke family. (Lois "Bunny" Drueke/Dianna Shaw via AP)

Drueke adopted his dog, Diesel, a 100-pound part-mastiff, from Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter. Every time Drueke has been allowed to call his mother, Lois Bunny Drueke, from captivity, he has asked about Diesel, who has been living with Bunny Drueke since Alex Drueke left in mid-April to support the Ukrainian Army.

Alex last called me on July 28, and I told him we were planning this event, his mother said. I could hear excitement in his voice and it made me incredibly happy to give him something to feel good about.

Large dogs are hard to place, and thats why Alex chose to foster, and then adopt, Diesel, she said. This time of year, animal shelters are overcrowded, so we knew this would be the best time to hold the event.

Alex Drueke adopted his dog, Diesel, a 100-pound part-mastiff, from Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter.

Adoption fees for up to 10 dogs weighing 50 pounds or more will be waived at the event. The Drueke family and friends will cover the cost of the adoptions and provide swag bags to go with each dog adopted.

Included in the swag bags given with every adopted dog will be Ukraine-themed dog bandanas provided by Sassy Bliss Boutique, coupons for veterinary services at Alberta Veterinary Clinic, gift cards to Pet Supplies Plus, dog waste baggies and dog treats. Pet Supplies Plus of Tuscaloosa will also donate dog food for each adopted dog.

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More: Mom of Tuscaloosa veteran held in Ukraine speaks to son by phone

Shaw said "Big Dogs, Big Hearts" will be a family-friendly event.

Metro has an air-conditioned bus you can walk through to visit with the dogs, and people can take them out for a walk," she said. "A friends kids are having a lemonade stand, and well be playing music and there are door prizes, so even if youre not ready to add a big dog to the family, you can come out and have a good time.

Included in the swag bags given with every adopted dog at "Big Dogs, Big Hearts" will be Ukraine-themed dog bandanas provided by Sassy Bliss Boutique.

Bunny Drueke said people can come to the event to show their support for Alex Drueke and Huynh.

We'll have posters of Alex and Andy that people can write their well-wishes on, Bunny Drueke said. We'll present them to our guys when we welcome them home so they can see how much people were thinking about them and praying for them, she said.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Family of Tuscaloosa POW Alex Drueke organizes 'Big Dogs, Big Hearts'
Former President Donald Trump at a rally in Waukesha, WI on August 5, 2022. Scott Olson/Getty Images

Many elected Republicans are furiously condemning the FBI raid of Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence.

Many of them are acknowledging something that they usually don't: that Trump is likely to run again.

Some are more forthright, while others simply refer to Trump as Biden's "top political opponent."

As elected Republicans condemn the FBI's raid of former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, many of them are saying out loud what they've been hesitant to discuss for nearly two years: Trump is likely to run for president again in 2024.

While Trump has been hinting at the prospect for months on end  including declaring that Democrats "desperately don't want me to run in 2024" in his statement announcing the raid  many Republicans in Congress and other elected positions around the country have generally declined to speculate on the former president's plans.

While President Joe Biden says he was unaware of the raid ahead of time, he indirectly oversees the independent Federal Bureau of Investigation, which is under the leadership of director Christopher Wray, a Trump appointee.

But that didn't stop Republicans from claiming that the raid  reportedly in connection with classified documents that Trump took with him to Mar-a-Lago  was politically motivated. In the process, they often acknowledged Trump's future presidential plans.

"The optics are especially disturbing considering that Presidents Biden and Trump are past and potentially future political opponents," said Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina in a statement. "The DOJ owes the American people a thorough explanation."

Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a close ally of Trump, was even more direct.

"President Trump is likely going to run again in 2024," he wrote on Twitter, though he added that "no one is above the law."

And Republican Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, a 2016 presidential candidate himself, released a video in which he referred to Trump as a "likely future election opponent." Trump "might, in fact, be running against [Biden] in a couple years," Rubio said in the video.

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Other examples abound.

"Joe Biden is trying to use the FBI to subdue his top political opponent because they are afraid of him running in 2024," wrote Republican Rep. Diana Harshbarger of Tennessee.

"Joe Biden campaigned on bringing our country together, but his DOJ just raided the house of his former - and possibly next - political opponent," wrote Republican Rep. Kevin Hern of Oklahoma.

Congressman Ben Cline (@RepBenCline) August 9, 2022

Other Republicans stopped short of acknowledging 2024 outright, but instead referred to Trump, in various terms, as Biden's "political opponent."

"This is a brazen weaponization of the FBI by Biden's DOJ against his political opponent," wrote Republican Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana.

And Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri, often mentioned as a potential future presidential contender himself, referred to Trump as Biden's "chief political opponent" as he called for Attorney General Merrick Garland to either resign or be impeached.

Senator Bill Hagerty (@SenatorHagerty) August 9, 2022

Former prosecutors and other legal experts told Insider in July that a 2024 announcement from Trump ahead of the 2022 midterms would be a "train wreck for the party," taking the focus of the election off of Biden and placing the divisive former president at the center of the discussion.

Additionally, experts said, running for president again would not shield Trump from his ongoing legal woes.

Read the original article on Business Insider
WASHINGTON (AP)  The FBIs unprecedented search of former President Donald Trumps Florida residence ricocheted around government, politics and a polarized country Tuesday along with questions as to why the Justice Department  notably cautious under Attorney General Merrick Garland  decided to take such a drastic step.

Answers weren't quickly forthcoming.

Agents on Monday searched Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate, which is also a private club, as part of a federal investigation into whether the former president took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence, people familiar with the matter said. It marked a dramatic escalation of law enforcement scrutiny of Trump, who faces an array of inquiries tied to his conduct in the waning days of his administration.

From echoes of Watergate to the more immediate House probe of the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, Washington, a city used to sleepy Augusts, reeled from one speculative or accusatory headline to the next. Was the Justice Department politicized? What prompted it to seek authorization to search the estate for classified documents now, months after it was revealed that Trump had taken boxes of materials with him when he left the White House after losing the 2020 election?

Garland has not tipped his hand despite an outcry from some Democrats impatient over whether the department was even pursuing evidence that has surfaced in the Jan. 6 probe and other investigations and from Republicans who were swift to echo Trump's claims that he was the victim of political prosecution.

All Garland has said publicly is that no one is above the law.

A federal judge had to sign off on the warrant after establishing that FBI agents had shown probable cause before they could descend on Trumps shuttered-for-the-season home  he was in New York, a thousand or so miles away, at the time of the search.

Mondays search intensified the months-long probe into how classified documents ended up in boxes of White House records located at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year. A separate grand jury is investigating efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, and it all adds to potential legal peril for Trump as he lays the groundwork for a potential repeat run for the White House.

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Trump and his allies quickly sought to cast the search as a weaponization of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep him from winning another term in 2024  though the Biden White House said it had no prior knowledge and current FBI Director Christopher Wray was appointed by Trump five years ago.

Trump, disclosing the search in a lengthy statement late Monday, asserted that agents had opened a safe at his home, and he described their work as an unannounced raid that he likened to prosecutorial misconduct.

Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search, including whether Garland had personally authorized it. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the West Wing first learned of the search from public media reports and the White House had not been briefed in the run-up or aftermath.

The Justice Department conducts investigations independently and we leave any law enforcement matters to them," she said. We are not involved.

About two dozen Trump supporters stood in protest at midmorning Tuesday in the Florida summer heat and sporadic light rain on a bridge near the former presidents residence. One held a sign reading Democrats are Fascists while others carried flags saying 2020 Was Rigged, Trump 2024" and Bidens name with an obscenity. Some cars honked in support as they passed.

Trumps Vice President Mike Pence, a potential 2024 rival, tweeted Tuesday, Yesterdays action undermines public confidence in our system of justice and Attorney General Garland must give a full accounting to the American people as to why this action was taken and he must do so immediately.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell echoed Pence, saying, Attorney General Garland and the Department of Justice should already have provided answers to the American people and must do so immediately.

The FBI director was appointed by Donald Trump, said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., when asked about GOP allegations that the raid showed the politicization of the Justice Department. She added, Facts and truth, facts and law, thats what its about.

Trump was meeting late Tuesday at his Bedminster, New Jersey, club with members of the Republican Study Committee, a group headed by Rep. Jim Banks of Indiana that says it is committed to putting forth his priorities in Congress.

The FBI reached out to the Secret Service shortly before serving a warrant, a third person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. Secret Service agents contacted the Justice Department and were able to validate the warrant before facilitating access to the estate, the person said.

The Justice Department has been investigating the potential mishandling of classified information since the National Archives and Records Administration said it had received from Mar-a-Lago 15 boxes of White House records, including documents containing classified information, earlier this year. The National Archives said Trump should have turned over that material upon leaving office, and it asked the Justice Department to investigate.

Christina Bobb, a lawyer for Trump, said in an interview that aired on Real Americas Voice on Tuesday that investigators said they were looking for classified information that they think should not have been removed from the White House, as well as presidential records.

There are multiple federal laws governing the handling of classified records and sensitive government documents, including statutes that make it a crime to remove such material and retain it at an unauthorized location. Though a search warrant does not necessarily mean criminal charges are near or even expected, federal officials looking to obtain one must first demonstrate to a judge that they have probable cause that a crime occurred.

Two people familiar with the matter, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, said the search Monday was related to the records probe. Agents were also looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at the estate.

Trump has previously maintained that presidential records were turned over in an ordinary and routine process. His son Eric said on Fox News on Monday night that he had spent the day with his father and that the search happened because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession.

Trump himself, in a social media post Monday night, called the search a weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024.

Trump took a different stance during the 2016 presidential campaign, frequently pointing to an FBI investigation into his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, over whether she mishandled classified information via a private email server she used as secretary of state. Then-FBI Director James Comey concluded that Clinton had sent and received classified information, but the FBI did not recommend criminal charges.

Trump lambasted that decision and then stepped up his criticism of the FBI as agents began investigating whether his campaign had colluded with Russia to tip the 2016 election. He fired Comey during that probe, and though he appointed Wray months later, he repeatedly criticized him, too, as president.

The probe is hardly the only legal headache confronting Trump. A separate investigation related to efforts by him and his allies to undo the results of the 2020 presidential election  which led to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol  has also been intensifying in Washington. Several former White House officials have received grand jury subpoenas.

And a district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia, is investigating whether Trump and his close associates sought to interfere in that state's election, which was won by Democrat Joe Biden.

___

Associated Press writers Terry Spencer, Meg Kinnard, Michelle L. Price, Lisa Mascaro, Alan Fram, Darlene Superville and Will Weissert contributed to this report.
The North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) recently received a $4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to strengthen its ApprenticeshipNC program over the next four years.

Five years ago, the system gained control of the states apprenticeship program. The NCCCS turned the program into a national leader in workforce training, doubling apprenticeships in four years. The grant from the U.S. Department of Labors Employment and Training administration will enable ApprenticeshipNC to strengthen, modernize, expand, and diversify its Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP), and improve RAP completion rates for underrepresented populations, underserved and rural communities.

This grant will support North Carolinas economic recovery post-COVID-19 pandemic and ensure preparedness for the future, the system said.

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ApprenticeshipNC is the state agency that certifies apprenticeships. The program was previously run by the Department of Labor and the Department of Commerce.

In 2016, the last year ApprenticeshipNC was under Commerce Department supervision, there were 5,161 apprentices statewide. The next year, N.C. legislators voted to move the program to the community college system. Last year, apprenticeships rose to 16,896, according to the most recent report from ApprenticeshipNC. Thats up from 12,244 participants the year prior, during the initial impact of the pandemic.

Funding for the $4 million grant started in July and will extend through June 30, 2026. ApprenticeshipNC will use the funds to expand its programs and apprentices in priority industry sectors, the system said. The NCCCS will also aim to diversify the industries that utilize the program.

Diversifying apprenticeships

Historically, apprenticeship programs lack diversity  in part due to apprenticeships existing in predominantly white, male fields. The $4 million grant, NCCCS said, will enable ApprenticeshipNC to create partnerships with communities of color. One planned partnership, for example, is with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to create a career pathway model culminating in a bachelors degree. The system also plans to partner with the Hispanic/Latino Action Coalition to increase the number of Hispanic/Latino apprentices.

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Barriers preventing students of color from enrolling in youth apprenticeship programs include inconsistent recruiting and a lack of representation of people of color, according to a 2019 N.C. Justice Center report.

My goal is that our programs, whether it be a curriculum program or an apprenticeship program, should look like our community looks, Justin Snyder, dean of Alamance Community Colleges applied engineering, agriculture, and skilled trades division, told WorkShift in 2021. Weve had some really hard conversations over the last year with our students of color to say, Have you ever felt uncomfortable in these situations? What can we do to help recruit your friends? What are the things that attracted you?

On the right track

Last May, the State Board approved an allocation of up to $11.6 million from the State Fiscal Recovery Funds to establish a temporary program to expand apprenticeship opportunities for high school and non-high school apprentices. The goal was to increase the number of North Carolinians, particularly within underserved populations, accessing NCCCS education and training.

From 2017 to 2021, the number of youth apprentices recruited by community colleges while in high school quadrupled. There are now 1,185 youth participants statewide.

The agency also served 4,379 military service members in 2021. The program offers pathways into high-quality civilian careers and credentials for transitioning service members.

Service members have a better opportunity to move into a civilian career at an equivalent or higher level having earned that certificate, said Eric Burgos, program director for the N.C. National Guard Employment Center, in the ApprenticshipNC annual report. Ill give you one example: we had an employee begin working for a trucking company. When he mentioned he had his journeymans certificate, he immediately got an $8+/hour raise.

Students from Henderson County Public Schools sign on to be part of the Made in Henderson County Apprenticeship Program in 2019, an advanced manufacturing workforce initiative. (Courtesy of Blue Ridge Community College)

In 2017, community colleges across the state hosted 5 pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs. Last year, N.C. community colleges hosted 47 total programs  offering options at 138 occupations and serving 975 participants of ApprenticeshipNC.

Recruitment of student apprentices is one thing; retaining them is another. Students in apprenticeship programs face the same barriers to staying enrolled that exist at community colleges across the board. Along with general retention efforts, ApprenticeshipNC aims to increase completion by layering industry certifications into curriculum.

Part of the new grant from the Department of Labor will be used to further improve apprenticeship completion rates. The grant will focus on the following industry sectors: advanced manufacturing, clean energy, education, health care, information technology, life sciences, skilled trades, and transportation.

Walter Siegenthaler, the godfather of apprenticeships in North Carolina, previously told EdNC that he expects to see the growth of apprenticeships in health care and other industries.

Its great to have manufacturers, but I think there is so much potential in other fields like in health care, he said in 2020. There is a lot more to be done, and I think that we are on the right track.

This article first appeared on EducationNC and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
A ship carrying large containers comes in to Felixstowe port

Workers at Felixstowe, the UK's largest container port, will go ahead with an eight-day strike after pay talks broke down.

Around 1,900 members of the Unite union will walk out on 21 August after rejecting an offer of a 500 lump sum on top of a 7% pay rise.

The Felixstowe Dock and Railway Company called the decision "disappointing".

Unite called for the port's bosses to make a "reasonable" offer, adding that it was open to further talks.

Unite's Robert Morton said: "Felixstowe docks is massively profitable. It can afford to put forward a reasonable pay offer to our members but once again has chosen not to. That decision was driven by greed not need."

A spokesperson at the port of Felixstowe said: "During talks yesterday [Monday 8 August] the port further improved its position offering a 500 lump sum in addition to 7%.

"The staff branch of Unite and the Police Federation of Felixstowe Dock and Railway Company have agreed to put a similar offer to their members. In contrast, the hourly branch of Unite has again rejected the port's improved position and refused to put it to its members."

Around half of containers brought in to the UK are transported via the port. A spokesperson for Felixstowe Dock and Railway Company said that the port has not had a strike since 1989.

Workers in other industries have also announced industrial action, most notably in the transport sector, over pay as well as terms and conditions.

Negotiations over wages has led to several rail strikes over summer, as workers seek higher salaries to keep up with sharp price rises for goods and services. The Bank of England has warned the UK will fall into recession in the final three months of this year when inflation is set to hit more than 13%. It announced the largest interest rate rise in 27 years - up 0.5% - to 1.75% in an effort to calm inflation.

Upcoming strikes include those on Saturday, 13 August by train drivers from nine rail companies, and further rail staff walkouts on 18 and 20 August by members of the RMT union.

Customers will face disruption to train services as 6,500 train drivers are expected to join Saturday's walkout.
Dr Whitney Terrell, a veterinarian in Alabama, shared the dog breeds she would never own on TikTok (TikTok/Dr Terrell Pet Vet)

A veterinarian has gone viral on TikTok after naming the five dog breeds she would never own due to the cost of their maintenance or temperaments.

Dr Whitney Terrell, who is based in Alabama, sparked controversy on the video sharing app for choosing fan favourite breeds as ones she would not pick for herself.

In a video that has been viewed more than 8.4m times, she named Chinese Crested, chihuahuas, any flat-faced breeds such as pugs or Shih Tzus, German Shepherds and Goldendoodle, as dogs she would never own.

Explaining why she would not own a Chinese Crested or other hairless breed types, Dr Terrell said that the dog themselves are fine, but its her personal preference not to own a hairless dog or cat.

Theyre zitty [sic], theyre greasy not for me, she added.

As for chihuahuas, Dr Terrell described these small breeds as ankle biters.

Would more than likely get bit [sic] if I had one, theyre usually a one-person dog, she continued. Weve got a few [in our clinic] that are just super, super, super sweet. The rest of them are ankle biters.

She also took issue with flat-faced, or brachycephalic breeds, which include pugs, Shih-Tzus, Boston terriers and English bulldogs.

Such breeds are at increased risk of breathing problems, as well as eye and skin conditions as a result of overbreeding.

In June, experts from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) suggested that the breeding of bulldogs in the UK could be banned if improvements to breeding practices are not made to help the dogs avoid debilitating conditions.

Dr Terrell said that while some of these dogs are so cute, so sweet, she would never own one because: They cant breathe. They literally cannot breathe.

A pug (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

They snore, Ive already got a husband that snores, she added. [They also get] skin fold dermatitis, allergies, yeasty, smelly, gassy  its a no for me.

Coming in second place were German Shepherds, as well as Belgian Malinois, which resemble the former breed.

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The vet explained that while these breeds have the potential to be really great dogs, the vast majority of those who come to her clinic want to bite your face off.

She clarified that this was because they are not properly trained, and that she would not have the time to properly train a German Shepherd or Belgian Malinois herself.

A German shepherd (iStock)

If youre thinking about getting these dogs, dont do it lightly because they need lots of training, lots of attention, she warned potential pet owners.

Finally, Dr Terrell said she would never own a Goldendoodle, a popular cross-breed between golden retrievers and poodles.

Some of these are sweet but a lot of them are crazy, crazy hyper, cant sit still for two seconds, she said.

Weve had some really aggressive ones as well, theyre just kind of squirrelly. Ear infections out the wazoo [sic], so expensive grooming too high maintenance for me, Id rather have a hound dog.

Owners of the breeds mentioned by Dr Terrell were quick to defend their dogs in the comments, with many of them eager to talk about their Goldendoodles.

One person wrote: I cant believe the Goldendoodle is your number one! Im shocked! Ive had a ton of dogs in my lifetime. This is the best dog ever and best family dog.

Another said: Goldendoodle is literally the best dogs Ive ever owned and ever been around. Literally like a human and ridiculously smart and sweet. Byeeee.

Whats all the hate on doodles [sic]! Our doodle is so smart and the kindest dog Ive ever met. I wont ever own anything different anymore, a third added.

In a follow -up video, Dr Terrell named the five dog breeds she would actually own, including Great Pyrenees, German shorthair pointers, golden retrievers, mutts or mixed breeds, and Basset hounds.
Story at a glance

A private religious school in Florida will not be expected to follow a new LGBTQ+ inclusive policy to receive federal funding for school lunches.

Grant Park Christian Academy sued the Biden administration and Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried (D) late last month, arguing that the rule threatened its ability to feed hungry children.

USDA in May said it was expanding its definition of sex-based discrimination to include sexual orientation and gender identity, and schools would need to update their nondiscrimination policies accordingly to receive funding from the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).

A private religious school in central Florida is exempt from adhering to new federal policies prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity and will continue to receive funding for a free meal program for its students, attorneys for the school said this week.

Grant Park Christian Academy in Tampa, Fla., a private school of 56 pre-K through eighth grade students from low-income families, was granted the exemption on Friday, according to the schools lawyers at the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF).

In a lawsuit filed late last month, the ADF had argued that, if the school were to comply with a new federal mandate intended to prevent discrimination against LGBTQ+ students, it would suffer harms to its educational mission, free speech, and religious exercise.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in May announced that it was broadening its definition of sex-based discrimination to include sexual orientation and gender identity, and said schools and other qualifying organizations would need to adjust their nondiscrimination policies accordingly to receive funding from the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), including for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).

America is changing faster than ever! Add Changing America to your Facebook or Twitter feed to stay on top of the news.

The ADF complaint, which named President Biden, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried  a Democrat running to replace Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) in November  as defendants, argued that the new rule was threatening Grant Park Christian Academys ability to feed hungry children.

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The lawsuit alleged that the school in following the new mandate would be unable to maintain sex-separated facilities like restrooms for boys and girls based on their biological differences, enforce its uniform policy or refrain from using pronouns that do not correspond to biological sex.

Grant Park Christian Academy under the new rule would also no longer be able to draw its workforce from a pool of individuals who share and live out its religious convictions, according to the complaint.

The school was informed by members of the Biden administration and Frieds office on Friday that its request for religious exemption would be granted and it would continue to receive funding to serve free meals to its students for the upcoming school year, ADF attorneys said Monday. An emergency hearing scheduled for August 11 will be postponed.

It shouldnt have taken a lawsuit to get the government to respect religious freedom, ADF Legal Counsel Erica Steinmiller-Perdomo said in a statement. Now, provided the government follows through and approves Grant Park Christian Academys application and confirms its exemption, this private school can continue feeding dozens of children healthy meals every day.

Steinmiller-Perdomo added that the ADF will defend other public and private schools across the country who remain under the burden of this unlawful mandate that violates religious beliefs.

The administrations rule has been the subject of controversy among mostly conservative officials since it was announced in May.

In July, the attorneys general of 22 states sued the Biden administration over the new mandate, which they said was unlawful, in part because it is based on a misapplication of U.S. Supreme Court precedents.

We all know the Biden administration is dead-set on imposing an extreme left-wing agenda on Americans nationwide, Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita (R), who is leading the lawsuit, said last month. But theyve reached a new level of shamelessness with this ploy of holding up food assistance for low-income kids unless schools do the Lefts bidding.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The progressive Florida rabbi challenging the state's post-Roe abortion law planned to file a new lawsuit Tuesday with additional plaintiffs, including a physician who performs abortions, four clergy members and a woman claiming her legal right to terminate a pregnancy.

Rabbi Barry Silver and his co-plaintiffs argue that Florida's ban on abortions after 15 weeks infringes on the state constitution's right to privacy, freedom of religion and other legal principles.

Silver, the rabbi at Congregation L'Dor Va-Dor in Palm Beach County, first filed a suit over the state law in June, before it took effect at the start of July. In the new filing, Silver is joined by obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Daniel N. Sacks as well as two Unitarian reverends, a Buddhist minister and another rabbi.

"I joined the lawsuit because I strongly believe abortion is essential healthcare and I believe no one should be oppressed by others' beliefs, religious or otherwise," Sacks said in a text message to NBC News on Tuesday. "Government interference is based on the religious beliefs of some and has no place in medicine."

In the lawsuit, Sacks alleges in part that the new law has caused him "personal and professional stress as he is now unable  without violating the law and incurring criminal and other sanctions  to provide what he believes to be essential healthcare to his patients."

The list of plaintiffs also includes a 42-year-old woman who "deeply believes that life begins at birth" and seeks to resist the new restrictions, "despite the law's threat to her and her doctor of criminal prosecution," according to a summary of the lawsuit obtained by NBC News.

The plaintiffs are represented by Silver, who happens to be a civil rights attorney, as well as a litigation team that includes David Ferleger of Pennsylvania, Henry Sorett of Massachusetts and Daniel Uhlfelder, a Democratic candidate for Florida attorney general.

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Silvers legal battle comes as abortion rights advocates scramble to push back on anti-abortion laws following the Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade, the landmark 1973 decision that established a constitutional right to abortion.

The rabbi plans to announce the details of his new lawsuit at a news conference at 3 p.m. ET Tuesday.

In a news release, Silver excoriated Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is widely believed to be eyeing a bid for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024.

"The [law] has no rational basis and serves no compelling governmental interest. The only interest it serves is the lust for power of Governor DeSantis who wants to appeal to his base and become the next President," the statement said.

"Women should not have to pay with their lives, and the freedom of speech and religion of Floridians should not be sacrificed at the altar of political ambition."

In an emailed statement Tuesday, DeSantis spokesman Bryan Griffin said: "Our comment on any potential lawsuit is the same as our comment on all other legal challenges to the pro-life HB 5 legislation. Governor DeSantis is pro-life, and we believe HB 5 will ultimately withstand all legal challenges.

"The struggle for life is not over," Griffin added in bolded text.

The state's new abortion restrictions make an exception for instances where the pregnant person could face serious injury or death, or in the event of a "fatal fetal abnormality."

Silver, like many other progressive rabbis and Jewish leaders across the U.S., believes that abortion is a basic human right  and that life begins at birth, not conception.

In the Jewish legal tradition, Silver has said, "abortion is required if necessary to protect the health, mental or physical well-being of the woman."

Silver, a former Democratic member of the Florida House and a self-described "Rabbi Rouser," argues that restrictions on access to abortion are drawn from conservative Christian theology and therefore amount to "theocratic tyranny."

NBC News previously reported that Silver would be joined in his legal fight by the retired Unitarian Rev. Harris Riordan, the Buddhist minister Maya Malay and Rabbi Arthur Wascow, the founder and director of the progressive Jewish organization the Shalom Center.

The new lawsuit has an additional plaintiff from the Unitarian tradition: the Rev. Tony Fisher, an ordained Unitarian Universalist minister who serves a congregation in Greater Naples, Florida.
Trump says Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida raided by FBI agents

Xinhua) 08:19, August 09, 2022

WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Former U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday evening that his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, had been raided by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Trump said in a statement that his home "is currently under siege, raided and occupied by a large group of FBI agents."

Neither the FBI nor the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has commented on the operation.

While lashing out at Democrats, the former Republican president said the agents "even broke into my safe" in "this unannounced raid."

The DOJ has reportedly been working on several investigations involving Trump, who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A former Fort Bliss soldier faces a minimum of 30 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to the continuous sexual abuse of a 6-year-old child at a home on the Army post, authorities said.

Trevor Dylan Lehew, 28, of Plano, Texas, pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated sexual abuse of a child Monday in federal court in El Paso, the U. S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Texas and the FBI said.

Lehew pleaded guilty to repeatedly sexually abusing the child between November 2014 and December 2015 while he was stationed at Fort Bliss, the U.S. Attorney's Office said in a news release. The link between Lehew and the child was not disclosed.

More:Ex-Fort Bliss soldier convicted of photographing toddler in child porn case gets prison

A federal grand jury indicted Lehew last December and he was arrested in January. At the time of his arrest, Lehew was in a Texas state prison serving a 20-year sentence after being convicted of aggravated sexual assault of a child and indecency with a child in Dallas County in 2020, according to information from the U.S. Attorney's Office and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Lehew faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years in prison on the federal conviction, officials said. A sentencing date is pending.

The case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division.

More:El Paso trucker who posted flyers offering road trips to boys gets life in child sex case

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Former Army soldier pleads guilty to child sex abuse at Fort Bliss
John Tilley, former secretary of Kentuckys Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, pleaded not guilty to a charge of first-degree rape during his first court appearance after he was arrested Monday morning.

Tilley also waived his right to time restrictions for setting a preliminary hearing while appearing in front of John Tackett, a Fayette District Court judge. Tilley is scheduled to reappear in court before District Judge Melissa Murphy on Aug. 26.

Tilley posted a $25,000 cash bond late Monday evening after he was arrested in downtown Lexington that morning, according to court documents. An arrest citation alleges that Tilley had sex with a victim who could not consent due to their level of intoxication.

The alleged rape occurred on April 15, but Tilley was not detained on the charge until Monday, according to the arrest citation. Tilley turned himself in Monday morning, Lexington police confirmed.

Attorneys Christopher Spedding and Steve Schroering, who are representing Tilley, said in a statement Monday that Tilley maintains he didnt commit a crime.

Mr. Tilley maintains his innocence of any criminal wrongdoing and has fully cooperated in the investigation. He respects the court process and will have no further comment at this time, Spedding and Schroering said in their statement.

Schroering said again Tuesday that he has no further comment on the case.

Tilley was previously a Democratic state representative, but was appointed to serve as a cabinet member over the states justice department by former Republican Gov. Matt Bevin. He served in that capacity during the entirety of the Bevin administration.

Herald-Leader reporter Austin Horn contributed to this story.
Rep. Ronny Jackson, a Republican from Texas, has revealed some adventurous eating habits. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

A former White House physician, Rep. Ronny Jackson has tried food from around the world

He was asked on the podcast, "Ruthless," what his last meal on Earth would be.

"I ate a whole plate of dog penis one time," he said. "I'm not doing that again."

A former White House physician, Rep. Ronny Jackson has tried foods from around the world.

And his culinary adventures have taught the Texas Republican enough to know what his last meal on Earth, most definitely, will not be.

"It won't be dog penis," he said when asked for his preference during an interview on the podcast "Ruthless." "I ate a whole plate of dog penis one time. I'm not doing that again."

Jackson is likely talking about "Gaebul," the Korean word for a fish eaten in South Korean that translates to "penis fish," according to Travel Food Atlas, which describes it as the country's "genital-shaped delicacy."

"Because of its pinkish to brown appearance, it made a huge resemblance to the male private part. Hence, the name 'penis fish,'" the site says. "A joke was once also thought that gaebul resembles a dog's genitals, so the worm was named after those Korean words. Because of its phallic shape, it has also been known to be an aphrodisiac."

Jackson also said his last meal would not be a balut, which is a fertilized duck egg commonly eaten in the Philippines.

"I ate one of those," he told Ruthless podcast host Josh Holmes, a Republican consultant and former chief of staff to Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky. "I'm never doing that again."

Fried steak would be his preference, if he had to plan it, he said.

Here's Jackson, with his food review:

Read the original article on Business Insider
STORY: Wine production in France is expected to go up this year.

That after output was hit by frost in 2021.

The countrys farm ministry expects production to rise up to 21% - or as much as 45.6 million hectolitres.

One hectolitre is about 133 standard wine bottles.

Much of France - known worldwide for its wine-regions - has experienced a heatwave this year.

More sunshine has caused vines to flower, although parts of the southwest were affected by frost and hail.

But the heatwave also has worrying consequences elsewhere.

The country has seen wildfires.

France's agricultural sector - which is the EUs largest - also fears more losses from the countrys worst drought on record.

It was affecting grapes in several major winemaking regions and hurting harvest potential in Burgundy.

Officials also warned production in Bordeaux was likely to fall below the five-year average after frost and hail damaged 10,000 hectares.

Fans of expensive drinks can rest easy, though.

The farm ministry said the Champagne region was set for a good harvest.

Output there is seen above the five-year average, thanks to rainfall in June and limited vine disease.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) says it has fined Utah-based apparel company Lions Not Sheep for replacing Made in China labels with inaccurate Made in USA ones on its products.

In a news release last month, the agency said that it has fined Lions Not Sheep and owner Sean Whalen $211,335 for the false labeling on its products.

The agency voted 5-0 to approve the final order, under which the company and Whalen were required to stop making bogus claims about their Made in USA products unless they can show proof that they were manufactured and produced in the U.S.

Also under the order, any qualified Made in USA claims must include a clear and conspicuous disclosure about the extent to which the product contains foreign parts, ingredients or components, or processing, the FTC said in its statement.

Finally, to claim that a product is assembled in the United States, Whalen and Lions Not Sheep must ensure that it is last substantially transformed in the United States, its principal assembly takes place in the United States, and U.S. assembly operations are substantial.

The Hill has reached out to Lions Not Sheep Products for comment.

According to Deseret News, Lions Not Sheep had gained notoriety over the years for its use of pro-Second Amendment and pro-Trump messages on its products, also having a roster of celebrity sponsors such as motorcycle racer Davi Millsaps and mixed martial arts fighter Donald Cowboy Cerrone.

The agency had filed a complaint against Lions Not Sheep Products, LLC in May, alleging that the firm used the phony Made in USA label on its products that were imported from China and other countries.

The FTC also said in its complaint that Whalen posted a video through multiple social media platforms, claiming that he could conceal the fact that his shirts are made in China by ripping out the origin tags and replacing them with tags stating that the merchandise was made in the United States.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Aug. 8BISMARCK  The North Dakota Game and Fish Department will host public meetings this month in Fargo, Dickinson and Minot to discuss chronic wasting disease in the state.

The three meetings are set for Monday, Aug. 22, at the Fargo Holiday Inn, 3803 13th Ave. S.; Wednesday, Aug. 24, at the Grand Dakota Lodge, 532 15th St. W., Dickinson; and Monday, Aug. 29, at the Grand Hotel, 1505 N. Broadway, Minot. All three of the meetings will begin at 7 p.m. local time.

"Chronic wasting disease presents serious concerns for the long-term health of our big game populations," Casey Anderson, wildlife division chief for Game and Fish in Bismarck, said in a statement. "While the status of this disease has changed considerably in North Dakota over the past two decades, we've also learned a lot."

Since last year, an intradepartmental CWD Task Force has been conducting a situational analysis of the issue, culminating in an updated plan for how it intends to manage the disease in North Dakota.

The meetings will include a formal presentation on history, current status and the future of CWD in North Dakota, after which department staff will be available to visit individually with people who have questions and/or comments.

North Dakota's first cases of CWD, a brain disease fatal to deer, elk and moose, were confirmed in 2009 in unit 3F2 of southwestern North Dakota. Since then, the disease has been confirmed in 70 wild deer, including 26 deer that tested positive during the 2021 hunting season  14 from hunting unit 3F2, eight from unit 3A1 and one from unit 3B1. Single positive deer also were found in units 3C, 3D1 and 3E2 where the disease had not been previously detected.

CWD has never been documented in a North Dakota deer hunting unit along the Red River, but a whitetail buck shot in October 2021 near Climax, Minnesota, during the youth deer season unexpectedly tested positive after the parent of the youth hunter voluntarily had the deer tested. As a result of its proximity to the positive Minnesota case, Game and Fish has implemented a baiting ban in unit 2B for the upcoming deer season.

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More info:

gf.nd.gov/wildlife/diseases/cwd

.
Gateway High School band director James Hoeltje is facing a charge of selling or furnishing alcohol to a minor, according to a criminal complaint.

On Monday, a note went home to district parents, informing them an investigation of a high school employee was underway. The note read, Due to the nature of these disturbing charges, the employee will remain on suspension and the district will proceed with termination as dictated by PA School.

According to the districts website, Hoeltje became the band director in 2016.

Band camp, which was set to start on Monday, was postponed following the charges against Hoeltje.

Gateway Band Boosters President Mary Chase told Channel 11 they were informed of the change in a letter over the weekend.

Chase sent Channel 11 a statement:

The Gateway Band Boosters is aware of information based on Dr. Shorts email and the recent police charges, and we are saddened by what occurred. We are grateful that the Monroeville Police and the Gateway School District are looking out for the best interest of our children, and we fully support our children and the band. We are thankful that the Gateway School district chose to delay the start of band camp in order to keep our kids safe. We would not want any child to be subjected to an onslaught of questions in conjunction with this investigation. We ask that the media respect our childrens privacy during this time, and especially when band camp starts.

According to the complaint, an 18-year-old former Gateway student described to police several incidents involving Hoeltje that began back in January.

The victim stated that Hoeltje shared his family struggles with her and would refer to her as his best friend. The complaint stated during a trip to Virginia, Hoeltje molested her while they both drank alcohol.

The teen said they began texting and sending each other Snapchats in January 2022. According to her, a majority of communications were done via Snapchat. The complaint stated that text messages, Snapchats, and in-person conversations would sometimes be sexual in nature, and Hoeltje would talk about his sex life with his wife. The victim also said Hoeltje would often hug her or hold her hand when they were alone in his office.

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According to the complaint, the victim told police that during a band trip to Virginia Beach at the end of April, she went to Hoeltjes room, where he provided her with two airplane bottles of vodka and whiskey, which she drank. The victim said she became dizzy and laid on the bed, where Hoeltje then climbed on top of her and tried to kiss her multiple times before she was able to squirm out from under him.

The criminal complaint states Hoeltje provided the teen with a bottle of vodka the day before prom.

The criminal complaint states that Hoeltje admitted to purchasing alcohol for the teen at her request. He also acknowledged he probably crossed a line and shared too much about his personal life with her, but he denies that he tried to kiss her.

Hoeltje is not facing any charges related to inappropriate sexual conduct.

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Aug. 9GOSHEN  The Goshen Community Schools Board of Trustees released the results of the ILEARN and IREAD scores for the 2021-2022 school year as compared to other Indiana districts.

Using the highest average, which was the eighth-grade assessment, they found that in English Language Arts, Goshen Community Schools' eighth-graders scored an average of 36.1% passing, whereas the state average was 43.6%.

GCS Associate Superintendent Alan Metcalfe told the board that in every grade, the district is within six points of the state average.

High points in the district's results were this year's incoming fourth-graders and seventh graders, which averaged two points from the average.

"Looking at those kids is like looking at apples to oranges, though," Metcalfe acknowledged. He added that the 2020-2021 cohort on their exam in the fourth grade, reached 35%, so there was growth. Similar growth came for the cohort in math where those same students saw growth allowing an additional five percentage points. The seventh-grade class, too, saw overall increases of 22.6% to 26.3%.

GCS Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction Tracey Noe explained that the district underwent a new reading program for the cohort and the results were most likely visible during the assessment.

Of the 2020-2021 cohort of third-graders, 31% passed the ELA test, while in the 2021-2022 cohort, 38.5% did.

Goshen Community Schools matched the trend at six percentage points below in most grades, except for last year's fifth- and sixth-graders who were almost 10 percentage points lower. In math, state proficiency lowered substantially, as in third grade the average was 51.9 and lowered to 29.8 by fourth grade.

Those passing math and ELA were also scored. The state average was 30.2, while Goshen Community Schools saw 25.4% passing, with the same grades scoring similar positives and negatives as the other testing parameters.

In Elkhart County, Baugo, Fairfield and Middlebury scored above the state average in ELA, with Fairfield scoring almost 55% and Baugo 51%. Goshen outperformed Concord and Elkhart districts.

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They also analyzed the unique demographics of Goshen schools as compared to other similar districts in the state. GCS consists of about 32% English learners, and about 56% Hispanic, so they searched out districts with over 25% Hispanic or English learners, including Logansport, Frankfort, Seymour, West Noble, and North White in their survey. Of those Goshen scored much higher with those districts ranging from 26 to 31% passing as compared to Goshen's 36%.

In math, Baugo, Fairfield and Middlebury again scored above the state average, with Baugo at almost 60% passing, Fairfield at 51% and about Middlebury at 57%.

Demographically, West Noble had 36.9% passing in math, while Goshen was at 33.8%.

Baugo, Fairfield and Middlebury again scored above the state average of 30.2% for proficiencies in both ELA and math, while Elkhart scored 15%, Concord scored 21%, and Goshen scored 25.4%.

In both ELA and math, Nest Noble remained closest to Goshen's score with Goshen scoring 25.4% and West Noble about 23%. Metcalfe said school officials actually contacted West Noble to talk about combining their EL practices.

"I think about the teachers and the principals when they look at these scores. No one is satisfied with these," Metcalfe explained. "Don't ever think that we are happy with where we are because we can do better and we will continue to try and our teachers work hard every day to make that happen."

Noe explained that while the schools want to see growth, they want mostly to see consistency in the steps moving forward.

"We've been on a bit of a trajectory ..." Noe said. "We want consistency from the goals that we're setting to the structures that we're putting in place, to the teachers following our instructional maps to our adopted curriculum, all of that cadence of 'teach, assess, enrich or reteach,' every time we're in the classroom. ... We're just constantly working for that consistent trajectory of instruction, assessment and curriculum."

Last year, the district started a study on the science of reading with kindergarten, first- and second-grade teachers. Noe said it went well and this year they're adding the program to third- and fourth-grade classrooms. Next year, they'll begin with fifth- and sixth-grade classrooms.

"It's helped to broaden our teachers' understanding," she said. "Our teachers need to not just look at the numbers of who did pass and did not pass. They need to really look at the work that they are doing with our students."

Noe also attributed lowered scores in last year's fifth- and sixth-graders to the new building, which moved all teachers and students, and professionals to a new environment. She added that some numbers may also be a result of COVID isolation and virtual learning.

Other items to come before the board:

The board recognized Tyra Marcum, senior, for earning All-State honors in softball. Marcum also broke Goshen High School's record for the highest batting average in a season at .586.

The board also recognized 17 fourth-graders for their perfect IREAD scores as third-graders. Those students were Axle Klinge, Carly Trenshaw, Luke Yoder, Matthew DeMott, Henry Stump, Francisco Rodriguez, Erick Medina Lopez, Patrick Eikler, Owen Detweiler, Cyrus Bontrager, Maya Fowler, Paul Gwaltney, Isaac Horst, Jasmine Gillette, Olivia Hunsberger, Roselyn Perez-Chavez and Krystell Ramirez.

GCS Chief Financial Officer Bob Evans presented the district's 2023 budget at the meeting. While not yet approved, the budget current features an education fund at $49,765,089, operating referendum budget at $4,358,240, debt service fund at $9,460,000, capital referendum fund at $4 million, and operations funds at $19,390,000. He added that the debt service fund is higher than last year's because of a late bond processed last year that's being paid off quickly. Evans reminded council members that the budget can be decreased, but after it is advertised, it cannot be increased, therefore, advertising is done higher. Evans said he anticipates a similar budget to last year's depending upon enrollment. Following approval at the Sept. 6 board meeting, the budget will be advertised. On Sept. 19, there will be a budget hearing and it's anticipated that the budget will be adopted on Oct. 10.

Dani Messick is the education and entertainment reporter for The Goshen News. She can be reached at dani.messick@goshennews.com or at 574-538-2065.
U.S. officials warned that North Korea is increasingly using crypto heists to fund nuclear weapons programs.

Meanwhile, Facebooks parent company Meta is changing course with new product features and a focus on the metaverse as the tech giant vies to maintain its top spot in the industry amid increasing competition and regulatory scrutiny.

This is Hillicon Valley, detailing all you need to know about tech and cyber news from Capitol Hill to Silicon Valley. Send tips to The Hills Rebecca Klar and Ines Kagubare. Someone forward you this newsletter? Subscribe here.

North Korea cyber capabilities worry US

North Korea is increasingly using its crypto heists to fund its nuclear weapons program, worried U.S. officials say.

Im very concerned about North Koreas cyber capabilities, Anne Neuberger, the Biden administrations deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technology, said recently during an event hosted by the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). They use cyber to gain, we estimate, up to a third of [stolen crypto] funds to fund their missile program.

Thats a major issue, whether its attacks against cryptocurrency exchanges or use of information technology workers in various countries, Neuberger said.

She added that North Koreas expansion of its missile testing is a top priority for the U.S., which is taking multiple steps to counter Pyongyangs cyber threats, including imposing sanctions against criminal groups and seizing stolen digital assets.

Read more here.

NORTH KOREAN CRYPTO HACKS ON THE RISE

Cybersecurity experts are warning against the rapid growth of cryptocurrency theft led by North Korean state-sponsored hackers following a series of heists targeting blockchain firms.

Nick Carlsen, a blockchain analyst at TRM Labs, said cyber-enabled financial crimes, especially those allegedly conducted by North Korea, have accelerated over the past few years as the East Asian country has become more sophisticated in stealing virtual currency.

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The threat landscape right now is as bad as I think it has ever been when it comes to financial theft, Carlsen said during a webinar hosted by the Center for a New American Security on Monday.

Carlsen was referring to a string of crypto heists this year involving hackers stealing millions of dollars worth of digital assets from blockchain firms.

Read more here.

Meta changes course

Meta is shifting to adapt to a changing climate for tech with product updates and a focus on virtual reality.

But the company is facing a battle on all fronts as it vies to maintain its status  working to convince consumers and investors to embrace CEO Mark Zuckerbergs vision for the companys future while confronting a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) intent on mitigating Metas market power, increasing competition from platforms such as TikTok, industry changes impeding ad revenue and the looming threat of a recession.

Zuckerberg told investors at the end of July the company is focused on riding two major technological waves  artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse.

The focus on AI is leading to more short-term changes, including updates to push recommended content on Instagram and Facebook. The focus on the metaverse is part of a more long term initiative the company is continuing to invest in.

Read more here.

Biden signs chips law

President Biden signed into law on Tuesday bipartisan legislation to provide billions of dollars in incentives to the domestic semiconductor industry and fund scientific research that proponents say will help boost U.S. competitiveness and solve supply chain challenges.

Today is a day for builders. Today America is delivering, Biden said at the bill signing event at the White House. And I, honest to God, believe that 50, 75, 100 years from now, people who will look back on this week, theyll know that we met this moment.

The bill  formally known as the CHIPS and Science Act  passed the Senate and House at the end of July, after more than a year of work on Capitol Hill and multiple iterations of the legislation.



The legislation includes more than $50 billion in incentives for manufacturers of semiconductors, or chips, to build domestic semiconductor plants. It also includes more than $80 billion for the National Science Foundation authorized over five years to support innovation and research.

Read more here.

Microns investment: The same day as executives at Micron and other chipmakers joined the president at the signing of the CHIPS and Science Act, Micron Technology said it plans to invest $40 billion in U.S. semiconductor manufacturing after Congress approved massive chip subsidies.

The Boise, Idaho-based chipmaker said that the investment will create 40,000 new jobs including 5,000 highly paid technical and operational roles and bring the worlds most advanced memory manufacturing to the U.S.

Read more about Microns investment.

SNAPCHAT ROLLS OUT PARENTAL CONTROLS

Snapchat will allow parents to view who their teen users are connecting with on the app without viewing the content of the messages, the company said in a blog post Tuesday.

The feature is under the new Family Center on the app, and comes after increased scrutiny from lawmakers over youth safety on Snapchat and other apps.

Through the Family Center, parents can see who their teen users are friends with and communicating with, but it does not let them view the substance of the conversations.

Snapchat said the tool is designed to reflect the way that parents engage with their teens in the real world, where parents usually know who their teens are friends with and when they are hanging out  but dont eavesdrop on their private conversations.

Read more here.

REMOTE VOTING IS HERE TO STAY, FOR NOW

Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) extended remote voting for House members on Tuesday, allowing lawmakers to vote by proxy until the end of September.

In a letter to colleagues, Pelosi said House members will be permitted to vote by proxy through Sept. 26 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In light of the attached notification by the Sergeant-at-Arms, in consultation with the Office of Attending Physician, that a public health emergency is in effect due to a novel coronavirus, I am hereby extending the covered period designated on January 4, 2021, pursuant to section 3(s) of House Resolution 8, until September 26, 2022, Pelosi wrote in the letter.

Read more here.

BITS & PIECES

An op-ed to chew on: Intelligent life in the universe may be extremely rare  we should look for it anyway

Notable links from around the web:

How Facebook helped Axios sell for $500 million (Vox / Peter Kafka)

This Is the Data Facebook Gave Police to Prosecute a Teenager for Abortion (Motherboard / Jason Koebler and Anna Merlan)

After Mar-a-Lago search, users on pro-Trump forums agitate for civil war  including a Jan. 6 rioter (NBC News / Ben Collins and Ryan J. Reilly)

 Lighter click: The cuddliest potato

One more thing: Clinton pokes fun with merch

Hillary Clinton is poking fun at Donald Trump, highlighting her But Her Emails merchandise in the wake of the FBI executing a search warrant on the former presidents Florida home.

Every But her emails hat or shirt sold helps [Onward Together] partners defend democracy, build a progressive bench, and fight for our values, the former secretary of State wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.

Just saying! Clinton said.

The tweet came the morning after Trump said in a Monday night statement, My beautiful home Mar A Lago in Palm Beach, Fla., is currently under siege, raided and occupied by a large group of FBI agents.

Read more here.

Thats it for today, thanks for reading. Check out The Hills Technology and Cybersecurity pages for the latest news and coverage. Well see you tomorrow.

READ THE FULL VERSION HERE

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Black smoke over Novofedorivka airfield, August 9

If it is confirmed that it is Ukraine that was behind the explosions, then this will have been the first time Ukraine has attacked an enemy base in Crimea since Russia began its occupation of the Ukrainian territory in 2014.

Read also: Ukraine will not use HIMARS to strike into Russia itself

According to a report by news agency Reuters, citing eyewitness accounts, the explosions occurred at Novofedorivka airfield, near Saky in western Crimea. Eyewitnesses said they heard at least 12 explosions within a minute, followed by another, larger blast about 30 minutes later, and saw a pillar of black smoke rising shortly afterwards.

Video of the incident shows a large mushroom cloud rising over the air base.

Russian news agency RIA Novosti later said a stream of ambulances could be seen heading towards Novofedorivka.

Several Russian officials also confirmed the reports of the blasts.

So far, I can only confirm that several explosions occurred near Novofedorivka, said Oleg Kryuchkov, an adviser to Crimean governor Sergey Aksyonov.

Aksyonov later made a video post from the airfields vicinity.

The military airfield is behind me; paramedics are working on the site, and there are enough of them, said Aksyonov.

Its too early to talk about casualties. No civilians have yet asked any hospitals for help.

The Russian Defense Ministry said the explosions were caused by munition detonations at an airfield depot.

There were no casualties; no aircraft were damaged, the ministry said.

Local reports suggest no enemy fire ever hit the ammo depot at the airfield.

Social media reports, however, suggest that at least three people were injured in the incident.

Russian news agency TASS reported that civilians within 5 kilometers of Novofedorivka are being evacuated. Kryuchkov later said that around 30 civilians were evacuated so far, adding that there were no civilian casualties.

Video posted on social media showed civilian cars fleeing from the area.

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Speculation as to the cause of the explosions was instantly rife on social media, with at least one weapons expert suggesting Ukraine may have hit the air base with ATACMS rockets fired by the HIMARS multiple rocket launcher.

Spoke to artillery/weapons specialist @noclador about Ukraine's long-range strikes on occupied Crimea. His verdict: "90% it's ATACMS, 10% it's cruise missiles, U.S. journalist Michael Weiss tweeted not long after news of the explosions broke.

Read also: HIMARS are true gamechangers, says Ukraines top spy

Earlier, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan at a briefing on July 22 said the United States would not supply Ukraine with ATACMS munitions for the HIMARS rocket launcher. The high-precision munitions have a range of 300 kilometers  well within the approximately 200 kilometer distance between the Novofedorivka airfield and the nearest Ukrainian-held territory.

Sullivan said U.S. President Joe Biden was reluctant to supply Ukraine with ATACMS, because he believes that while the key goal of the United States is to do whatever is necessary to support and protect Ukraine, another key goal is to ensure that we dont get into a situation in which we are approaching the Third World War.

Read also: Russia faltering in face of Western weaponry, says military advisor

Before that, U.S. officials has said the United States did not want Ukraine to use any of the long range artillery supplied by the West to strike targets on Russian soil.

Whether this condition applies to Crimea is debatable  Russia falsely claims to have annexed the peninsula, but this annexation has not been generally recognized.

Rather, Ukraine and most other countries see Crimea as part of Ukraine under Russian military occupation.

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Over a decade after a woman was found murdered after a Halloween party, her husband has been indicted for her death, according to the Dyer County Sheriffs Office.

David Swift was indicted on a charge of pre-meditated first-degree murder in the death of his former wife, Karen Swift, the sheriffs office said.

David Swift was indicted and arrested for the pre-meditated first-degree murder of his wife Karen Swift 11 years after Karen Swift was discovered dead in Dyer County, Tennessee.

David Swift was allegedly the last person to see Karen Swift alive when she returned home from a Halloween party at the Dyersburg Country Club at The Farms on October 30, 2011, according to the Dyer County Sheriffs Office.

Karen Swift was later found dead on December 10, 2011, the sheriffs office said.

Following his wifes death, the sheriffs office said David Swift remarried and moved to Alabama where he was arrested on Monday, August 8, 2022.

Karen Swift left behind four children.

Today is a good day for law enforcement and Im very pleased the grand jury returned an indictment against (David) Swift, said Dyer County Sheriff Jeff Box. We have literally spent thousands of hours on this case and a lot of that time was spent dispelling false information and rumors. Our investigators never gave up and just kept going through the evidence and I want to sincerely thank them for their diligence in this case.

Sheriff Box continued, saying that all the evidence pointed to David Swift.

The one thing that held true since the early stages of the investigation into Karens death was that David was always a suspect because all the evidence pointed to him. We were able to rule anyone and everyone else out involving this tragic murder and the grand jury made the right decision today by indicting him on a pre-meditated first-degree murder charge, Sheriff Box said.

David Swift was taken into custody in Jefferson County, Alabama. Dyer County will seek extradition to bring him back to West Tennessee.

If convicted, David Swift faces a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.

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Irvine police arrested a Southern Californian dermatologist on suspicion of poisoning her husband.

Yue Emily Yu, 45, was arrested on Thursday after her husband of 10 years submitted video evidence to authorities that allegedly supports his claim that his wife had been poisoning him for over a month.

The husband reportedly set up a hidden camera to confirm his suspicion. Police interviewed Yu and searched the couples home in Irvine before taking her to Orange County Jail in California.

Yus husband had sustained significant internal injuries but is expected to recover, according to the police.

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Although it remains unclear how Yu allegedly poisoned her husband, Irvine Police told CBS News that she did not do it by poisoning his food.

Authorities are currently investigating Yus potential motive.

We do believe this is a domestic-related incident, Irvine police Lt. Bill Bingham told the New York Post. Theres nothing that we discovered that could cause concern for patients that [Yu] treated.

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Yu, who attended medical school at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, is a specialist in dermatology in Mission Viejo. She is affiliated with the Providence Mission Hospital, which released a statement after her arrest.

This incident is a domestic matter which occurred in Irvine, and we want to reassure our community that there has been no impact on our patients, the hospital said.

Yus husband filed for an emergency restraining order on Friday, claiming to be a victim of domestic violence. He also filed for divorce and is seeking sole custody of their two children, ages 7 and 8.

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Yus bail was set at $30,000. She was released Friday evening after posting bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.

Featured Image via PxHere

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A group of largely anti-Israel countries on Monday pushed the United Nations Security Council to yet again turn Israel into its punching bag for merely defending itself against the Iranian regime-backed terrorist movement Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ.)

In his remarks ahead of the session, Israels U.N. ambassador Gilad Erdan singled out Norway and Ireland, who frequently bash the Jewish state, for their role in securing an emergency meeting.

"How would Norway react to Islamists plotting to fire missiles at civilians in Oslo? How would Ireland react if Jihadi rocketeers were raining down on Dublin in an effort to wipe out the infidel?" he asked.

Israel waged a three-day conflict with the U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization PIJ. Erdan said, "The Palestinian (Islamic) Jihad deliberately fired eleven-hundred rockets at Israelis civilians, with roughly two-hundred landing inside the Gaza Strip, killing innocent Palestinians and among them young children."

The Islamic Republic of Iran  the worlds worst international-sponsor of terrorism  has played a key role in stoking violence against Israel, Middle East experts say. Erdan noted, "The Palestinian Islamic Jihad is a radical terror organization, armed, funded and trained by Iran."

PALESTINIAN ISLAMIC JIHADS ROCKET BARRAGES ON ISRAEL TRACE BACK TO 'IRAN'S REGIONAL TENTACLES,' EXPERTS SAY

China holds this month's presidency of the Security Council and threw its support behind the emergency meeting.

The council session comes during a period of monumental crises, in which the U.N. seems largely paralyzed. A possible nuclear catastrophe is unfolding in Ukraine after shelling attacks struck a Russian-controlled nuclear facility.

Observers say the U.N. Security Council has largely been impotent in its efforts to stop an over six-month grinding war of attrition between Russia and Ukraine that has resulted in tens of thousands of dead, many more injured and millions displaced, largely women and children. Russia has faced allegations of war crimes in Ukraine.

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In a reference to the U.S. recent neutralizing the commander of al-Qaeda, Ayman al-Zawahiri, in late July, Erdan noted the double standards at play.

US TAKES OUT AL QAEDA LEADER AYMAN AL-ZAWAHRI IN 'SUCCESSFUL' AFGHANISTAN COUNTERTERRORISM OPERATION

"Thats precisely why, when al-Zawahiri was eliminated, this institution, as well as most of the world, gave its full support. This was one step closer to eradicating radical terror from the world. Yet when Israel neutralizes such terrorists in order to prevent an imminent attack against our civilians, U.N. officials shamelessly issues deep concern. This is a blatant double standard and will not be accepted," he said.

As the Security Council met Tor Wennesland, the United Nations special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, noted, the "preliminary numbers, which have yet to be confirmed, indicate that from 5 August, the Israel Defense Forces launched 147 airstrikes against targets in Gaza. Palestinian militants launched approximately 1,110 rockets and mortars into Israel, many of which landed deep inside Israeli territory."

He added, "During the escalation, 46 Palestinians were killed and 360 injured, and hundreds of residential housing units were damaged or destroyed, along with other civilian infrastructure. Seventy Israeli were injured, with damage to residential and other civilian structures."

Israels government documented that misfired PIJ rockets killed Palestinian children and destroyed Gaza infrastructure.

During his remarks to the council, the Palestinian ambassador to the U.N., Riyad Mansour, did not criticize the terror group that Israel had targeted and termed the Israeli operation "unprovoked and unjustified aggression."

Mansour attributed the Israeli preemptive military operation to stop PIJ missiles from entering Israel to the "upcoming Israeli election." According to conspiracy theories circulating within far-left and radical Islamic circles, Israel eliminated the leadership of PIJ as an election stunt to advance the electoral chances of Prime Minister Yair Lapid in Israel's November election.

UN BODY ISSUES ANTISEMITIC REPORT AGAINST ISRAEL, CRITICS CHARGE

The three European countries who, in addition to the U.A.E and China, called for the meeting seemed to turn a blind eye toward naming the PIJ as a terrorist organization.

Frances diplomat talked about stopping the "spiral of violence" but omitted any explicit criticism of the PIJ as a terrorist movement.

Norways representative blamed Israel for the "occupation" and "settlement building" in its remarks. The Norwegian official did not cite the PIJ. Irelands diplomat called Israel the "occupying power." It is unclear what the Irish diplomat meant by claiming Israels occupies the Gaza Strip.

Israel has not had a presence in Gaza since 2005 when it withdrew from the Palestinian enclave. There are no Israeli soldiers or citizens in Gaza; however, Hamas is holding two Israeli's hostage and won't release the bodies of two other Israeli soldiers. Irelands representative mirrored Norway and France by not naming the PIJ as a terrorist movement and the nature of its ideology.

In sharp contrast to the anti-Israel rebukes of the three Europeans, the U.S. Ambassador to the World Body Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said, "Let us be clear: Palestinian Islamic Jihad is a designated terrorist organization in the United States and in many other nations. And it is also an Iranian proxy, which has conducted attacks against innocent civilians for years."

She appealed to the fractured body "to come together and unconditionally repudiate the terrorism of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad." Thomas-Greenfield stressed that "we fully support Israels right to defend its people against terrorist threats, including rocket fire aimed at civilians."
JERUSALEM (AP)  Israeli troops killed three Palestinian militants and wounded dozens in a shootout that erupted during an arrest raid in the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday.

The shootout came a day after a cease-fire ended three days of fighting between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group in the Gaza Strip.

In a separate incident in the West Bank city of Hebron, the Palestinian Health Ministry said a 17-year-old was killed by Israeli fire. The Israeli military said forces were responding with live fire, among other means, to a violent protest.

Israeli police said security forces encircled the home of Ibrahim al-Nabulsi, who they say was wanted for a string of shootings in the West Bank earlier this year. They confirmed that al-Nabulsi and another Palestinian militant were killed in a shootout at the scene, and that troops found arms and explosives in his home.

The Israeli military said that troops came under attack from Palestinians throwing rocks and explosives, and that soldiers responded with live fire. It confirmed Palestinians were shot, but did not elaborate on their condition.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said three people were killed  al-Nabulsi, Islam Sabouh and Hussein Jamal Taha  and at least 40 were wounded.

The armed wing of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbass Fatah party, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, later claimed the three as its members and vowed retaliation. The Fatah party said the organization mourns its martyred sons and said the three had sacrificed their lives in defense of our great people and their right to freedom and independence.

Israel has conducted near nightly arrest raids in the West Bank in recent months as part of a crackdown on Palestinian militant groups, foremost Islamic Jihad, in the aftermath of a string of deadly attacks targeting Israelis earlier this year that left 19 people dead. Dozens of Palestinians have been killed in clashes with Israeli troops during these arrest raids.

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Last week, Israel arrested Bassam al-Saadi, a senior Islamic Jihad militant in the West Bank city of Jenin, during one of the nightly operations. The group said it was going on alert, and on Friday, Israel launched a series of strikes on Islamic Jihad targets in the Gaza Strip in what it said was a response to an imminent threat by the militant group.

During the three days of Gaza fighting, at least 46 Palestinians were killed, including 16 children and four women, and 311 were wounded, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. Twelve of those killed were Islamic Jihad militants, one was from a smaller armed group, and two were Hamas-affiliated policemen who were not taking part in the fighting, according to the armed factions.

Israel estimated that a total of 47 Palestinians were killed, including 14 killed by misfired Islamic Jihad rockets. It said 20 militants and seven civilians died in Israeli airstrikes and that it was still investigating six deaths.

Israels caretaker prime minister, Yair Lapid, applauded the cooperation by Israeli security personnel and said that al-Nabulsis killing was another step in our uncompromising struggle against terrorism.

Nabil Abu Rdeneh, a spokesman for Abbas, warned that continued violence could further ignite the region, and accused the Israeli government of shedding Palestinian blood to secure internal political capital ahead of November parliamentary elections.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked about the killings Tuesday, said: Were, obviously, very concerned about the increased violence that weve seen in the occupied West Bank, including the killing today of three Palestinians in Nablus and one in Hebron following clashes with Israeli security forces.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls on all sides to demonstrate calm and calls on the relevant authorities to carry out independent, transparent investigations into all deaths and injuries, Dujarric said.

Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war and the Palestinians seek it as the heartland of their future state. Israel views the West Bank as the biblical and historical heartland of the Jewish people, and has constructed dozens of settlements, now home to over 400,000 Israelis.

The Palestinians and much of the international community consider Israels West Bank settlements a violation of international law and an obstacle to a peaceful resolution of the decades-long conflict.

___

Associated Press writer Edith M. Lederer contributed from the United Nations.
Palestinian demonstrators clash with Israeli forces carrying out an operation in the West Bank city of Nablus on Tuesday. (Majdi Mohammed / Associated Press)

Israeli troops killed three Palestinians and wounded dozens in a shootout Tuesday during an arrest raid in the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said.

The shootout came a day after a cease-fire ended three days of fighting between Israel and the Islamic Jihad militant group in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli police said security forces encircled the home of Ibrahim Nabulsi, who they say was wanted for a string of shootings in the West Bank earlier this year. They confirmed that Nabulsi and another Palestinian militant were killed in a shootout at the scene, and that troops found arms and explosives in his home.

The Israeli military said that troops came under attack from Palestinians throwing rocks and explosives, and that soldiers responded with live fire. It confirmed that Palestinians were shot, but did not elaborate on their condition.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said three people were killed  Nabulsi, Islam Sabouh and Hussein Jamal Taha  and at least 40 were wounded.

Israel has conducted near-nightly arrest raids in the West Bank in recent months as part of a crackdown on Palestinian militant groups, foremost among them Islamic Jihad, in the aftermath of a string of deadly attacks targeting Israelis earlier this year that left 19 people dead. Dozens of Palestinians have been killed in clashes with Israeli troops during these arrest raids.

Last week, Israel arrested Bassam Saadi, a senior Islamic Jihad militant in the West Bank city of Jenin, during one of the nightly operations. The group said it was going on alert, and on Friday, Israel launched a series of strikes on Islamic Jihad targets in the Gaza Strip in response to an imminent threat by the militant group.

During the three days of Gaza fighting, at least 46 Palestinians were killed, including 16 children and four women, and 311 were wounded, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. Twelve of those killed were Islamic Jihad militants, one was from a smaller armed group, and two were Hamas-affiliated policemen who were not taking part in the fighting, according to the armed factions.

Story continues

Israel estimated that a total of 47 Palestinians were killed, including 14 killed by misfired Islamic Jihad rockets. It said 20 militants and seven civilians died in Israeli airstrikes and that it was still investigating six deaths.

Israels caretaker prime minister, Yair Lapid, applauded the cooperation by Israeli security personnel and said that Nabulsis killing was another step in our uncompromising struggle against terrorism.

Nabil Abu Rdeneh, spokesman for Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, warned that continued violence could further ignite the region and accused the Israeli government of shedding Palestinian blood to gain political capital ahead of November parliamentary elections.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Japanese designer Issey Miyake (AFP via Getty Images)

The fashion industry is mourning the loss of Japanese designer Issey Miyake, who has died at the age of 84.

According to the Kyodo news agency, Miyake died of liver cancer on Friday 5 August while surrounded by close friends and associates.

There will be no memorial service or funeral as per the designers wishes, a brief release from the Miyake Design Studio and the Issey Miyake Group said.

Tributes to the industry giant, whose signature pleated style of clothing is instantly recognisable, have begun pouring in from fashion editors, designers and fans.

Tianwei Zhang, WWD magazines London and China market editor, posted a photograph of a young Miyake on his Instagram account and wrote: Rest in Peace.

Meanwhile, Jirat Subpisankul, style director of Vogue Thailand, shared an editorial image of one of Miyakes creations and wrote in the caption: R.I.P. Mr Issey Miyake. Your work stays forever.

Fans of the designer also took to Twitter to pay tribute, with one person tweeting: RIP Issey Miyake legends never die.

Another said: Very sad news... One of my top favourite designers with innovative designs. His legacy will be everlasting.

Miyake was born in Hiroshima in 1938 and was aged seven when the US detonated an atomic bomb over the city on 6 August 1945.

He previously said in a letter to former US president Barack Obama in 2009 that when he closed his eyes, he still see[s] things no one should ever experience.

His namesake fashion house said: Never one to embrace trends, Miyakes dynamic spirit was driven by a relentless curiosity and desire to convey joy through the medium of design.

He never once stepped back from his love, the process of making things. He continued to work with his teams, creating new designs and supervising all collections under the various Issey Miyake labels. His spirit of joy, empowerment and beauty will be carried on by the next generations.
Issey Miyake, the influential Japanese fashion designer known for his pleated style creations and Steve Jobs signature black turtleneck, died of liver cancer at 84 years old on Friday.

A private funeral service was held with his friends and family, his office stated. Per Miyake's wishes, a memorial ceremony will not be held.

Born in Hiroshima, Japan, the designer was 7 years old when the atomic bomb dropped in 1945. His mother died three years later from radiation exposure, and he was left with a limp that followed him through adulthood. Miyake never revealed this part of his childhood until 2009, as he was determined not to be known as the designer who escaped the atomic bomb.

When I close my eyes, I still see things no one should ever experience, Miyake wrote in a New York Times piece. I have tried, albeit unsuccessfully, to put them behind me, preferring to think of things that can be created, not destroyed, and that brings beauty and joy. I gravitated towards the field of clothing design, partly because it is a creative format that is modern and optimistic.

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Miyake moved to Paris in 1965 and attended Ecole de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, a school well-known for tailoring and dressmaking. While in Paris, he worked with two of the biggest fashion names in haute couture: Guy Laroche and Hubert de Givenchy.

In 1970, Miyake opened his own studio in Tokyo where he used Japanese embroidery techniques and tattoo-inspired designs. He rose to fame in the 1980s after designing a new type of pleated fabric that kept its shape and eventually developed his signature line, Pleats, Please.

The designers iconic pleat designs have been worn by many celebrities, including Doja Cat, Celine Dion and Solange Knowles. In addition, Miyake found a lifelong customer in Apples founder Steve Jobs, having designed his signature black turtleneck.

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I asked Issey to make me some of his black turtlenecks that I liked, and he made me like a hundred of them. I have enough to last for the rest of my life, Jobs was quoted as saying in Walter Isaacsons 2011 biography Steve Jobs.

Miyake would go on to design several other fashion lines that included bags, watches and fragrances.

The Bao Bao Issey Miyake bag line has been popular in recent years for its unique geometric design and futuristic inspirations. The bags also take into consideration the possibility of damage or wear, allowing individual triangular pieces to be replaced rather than replacing the entire bag.

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Miyakes first fragrance line, L'Eau d'Issey, launched in 1992 and became an international bestseller. The iconic fragrance was inspired by water, with Leau being French for water.

He retired in 1997 to focus on research but he continued to innovate. In 2007, he launched Reality Lab to research durable and environmentally sustainable materials.

The designer received several awards for his work in fashion, including the Praemium Imperiale award in 2005 from the Japan Arts Association and the prestigious Legion of Honor from the French government in 2016.

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Featured Image via Getty Images
The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination heard community activist Ben Frazier deliver a discussion on racial discrimination in Florida on Tuesday.

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Frazier presented on what he describes as the racist policies of the DeSantis regime. He is the president of the Northside Coalition of Jacksonville, an advocacy organization dedicated to racial justice.

Frazier addressed the CERD on Tuesday to provide his insights into recent policies approved by the Florida legislature and signed into law by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Frazier says some of those policies negatively impact Floridas people of color.

In my home state of Florida, the governor has decided to ignore and disrespect the noble human rights principles that the United Nations stands for, said Frazier. For example, Floridas recently enacted Anti-Protest (HB-1) law is hogwash. It is a violation of our most basic and fundamental individual freedoms.

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Frazier believes Floridas HB-1 law was designed to deter, discourage and stop peaceful demonstrations and protests of racial justice issues. He contends the law is racist and racially discriminatory because it targets Black community organizers.

Frazier is looking to CERD to also voice criticism of the new policy as a way to continue the fight for justice.

We are asking and recommending that the committee denounce and condemn this crooked and corrupt law, said Frazier.

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The UN CERD is the body that monitors the implementation of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. The countries that have ratified the convention must submit reports on the rights situation within their borders, including how rights are being secured and strengthened.

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After such reports are submitted, the committee addresses its concerns and recommendations to the member state in its concluding observations. The reports made by member states and the concluding observations of the committee can be important advocacy tools for civil society organizations.

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Taiki Yanagida

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Taiki Yanagida, a New Zealand-based horse jockey from Japan, died Tuesday, a few days after he fell from his horse and was trampled by another.

According to the Herald Sun, 28-year-old Yanagida was riding his horse, Te Atatu Pash, during a race at New Zealand's Cambridge Jockey Club last Wednesday when he fell 250 meters from the finish line. The horse fell on top of Yanagida, and he experienced severe injuries to his head and spine, the outlet reported.

Yanagida's helmet came off during the fall and he was also trampled by a horse behind him, NZ Herald reported.

Yanagida succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday at Waikato Hospital with his mother and one of his siblings by his side, the outlet said. He is the first jockey to die as a result of a race fall in New Zealand since December 2016.

NZ Herald said had Yanagida survived, he likely would not have been able to walk again.

RELATED: Jockey Richard Gamez, 66, Killed After Being Trampled by Horse During Race in Arizona

In an interview with RaceForm in June, Yanagida, who was nicknamed "Tiger," said his mother did not want him to become a horse jockey.

"I wanted to try and become a jockey, but my mom didn't agree, she said I must go to university first, I think she was worried about the gambling," Yanagida told RaceForm. "I completed one year at university before I said I was going to Australia to train to be a jockey."

He added: "Now my mother is happy for me, she knows I am doing what I always wanted to, but she still worries about me and is always going to the temple to pray for my luck and safety."

RELATED: Kentucky Derby-Winning Jockey Suspended for Careless Riding, His Fifth Ban in Nine Months

Yanagida said he was happy with the progress he has made throughout his career, especially in recent months. But, he was especially looking forward to spending time with his family during the summer.

"I'm very happy, this year, I have the best results in my career," he told RaceForm. "I ride trackwork for lots of different people at Matamata, and once a week, I go to Cambridge. By working hard, I am getting plenty of race rides  and winners too."

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"I'm really looking forward to being with my family for four weeks, then I will be back in time to get ready for the new season  I'm hoping it is going to be another good one," he continued.

RELATED VIDEO: 5 Things to Know About the Kentucky Derby

In a statement, New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing said they would assist Yanagida's family in taking "their son and brother home."

"Our deepest sympathies are with Taiki's family  his mother Kayano, sisters Chiaki and Ayano, and his grandmother," New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing CEO Bruce Sharrock said. "We share their grief at the loss of such a talented, friendly, and well-liked young man."
Several Hollywood stars have seemingly unliked Johnny Depps Instagram post celebrating his trial win against Amber Heard.

Depp sued Heard for $50m (40.1m) for allegedly implying he abused her in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed. Although she didnt name him, he claims her allegations impacted his ability to work.

Heard then filed a countersuit accusing Depp of allegedly orchestrating a smear campaign against her and describing his own lawsuit as a continuation of abuse and harassment.

In June, the jury shared their verdicts, finding that Heard had defamed Depp on all three counts.

She was demanded to award him $10m (8m) in compensatory damages and $5m in punitive damages. Heard was found to have a partial win in her case and was awarded $2m in compensatory damages, but no punitive damages.

Over the course of proceedings  and Depps previous legal case against The Sun  a number of prominent celebrities offered their take on the couple, with a huge number of Hollywood stars throwing their support on Depp in the form of Instagram likes.

After the couple shared respective posts discussing the verdict, a large number of famous people liked Depps post, with Heard notably receiving much less support.

However, its now being reported that, for reasons unclear, many of these celebrities have now unliked the post.

The names were highlighted by Twitter user @k4mil1a, who cross-referenced the post with pre-existing lists compiled by Reddit users at the time.

The celebrities whose names previously appeared under the post, but no longer appear include Elle Fanning, Bella Hadid, Orlando Bloom, Robert Downey Jr, Zoey Deutch, Sophie Turner, and Bullet Train star Joey King.

The post Johnny Depp shared after Amber Heard defamation trial verdict was revealed (Instagram)

Others who have appeared to unlike Depps post include Jennifer Coolidge, Christina Hendricks, McKenna Grace, Riley Keough, Bruce Campbell and Sam Fender.

Musician Fender came under fire after sharing a photo alongside Depp taken in a Newcastle pub on the same day the trial verdict was announced. He went on to apologise for the disrespectful timing of the image, underneath which he called Depp a hero.

The discovery of the apparent unlikes come after the unsealing of documents related to the case that werent allowed to be addressed in court.

These documents included several potentially damaging anecdotes about Depp that Heards team were not permitted to mention, and also included further quotes from video testimonials given by famous figures including Depps ex-girlfriend, actor Ellen Barkin.
Feds raid Rudy Giuliani's apartment to investigate Ukraine dealings

A Georgia judge Tuesday granted Rudy Giuliani's request to delay his testimony before an Atlanta-area grand jury investigating interference in the 2020 presidential election, setting a tentative date of Aug. 17, if his health allows.

The personal attorney for former President Donald Trump had been scheduled to appear Tuesday before a special Fulton County grand jury, but Giuliani's lawyers said his doctors had not cleared him for air travel following a a recent heart procedure.

Previously: Trump allies subpoenaed in Georgia election probe, including Rudy Giuliani and Lindsey Graham

More: Rudy Giuliani seeking to delay Georgia grand jury appearance, cites heart condition

Prosecutors had opposed the postponement, telling Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney that they would pay his bus or train fare to Atlanta, if the former New York mayor was indeed unable to fly.

Giuliani is one of several high-profile Trump aides who have been subpoenaed for testimony this month, marking a potentially crucial stretch for the Atlanta investigation.

More: Georgia election investigation heats up. Giuliani, Eastman facing dates with grand jury

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., is expected to challenge his subpoena in federal court Wednesday, while Trump lawyers John Eastman and Jenna Ellis also face dates with the special panel this month.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.

In Giuliani's case, Fulton County officials have outlined multiple areas of inquiry.

The former New York mayor, suspended from practicing law in New York and Washington, D.C., for his election-fraud allegations, had made wide-ranging claims that voting systems altered Georgia ballots, while ignoring a hand-count audit that confirmed President Joe Biden's victory in the state.

Giuliani also asserted that about 65,000 underage voters, more than 2,500 felons and 800 dead people voted in the state. All of those claims have been debunked by the Georgia secretary of state, which found no underage voters, only 74 potential felony voters and only two votes that may have been improperly cast in the name of dead voters.

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According to court documents seeking Giuliani's grand jury appearance, Fulton County authorities are highlighting the Trump lawyer's Dec. 3, 2020, appearance before the Georgia State Senate in which he offered a video recording of election workers at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, purporting to show suitcases of unlawful ballots from unknown sources, outside the view of election poll watchers.

Within 24 hours of the state Senate hearing, the video had been discredited by the secretary of state's office, concluding "no voter fraud of any kind had taken place."

Scene outside Mar-a-Lago after the FBI issued warrants at August 8, 2020 in Palm Beach, Fla. Mar-a-Lago is the winter home and club of former President Donald Trump.

The push for testimony in the Atlanta inquiry is one of several investigations weighing on the former president. On Monday, the FBI dramatically escalated a federal inquiry into Trump's handling of classified government documents when agents searched the former president's Mar-a-Lago, Florida estate.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Rudy Giuliani's Georgia grand jury testimony pushed to Aug. 17
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani speaks during a news conference June 7, 2022, in New York. Mary Altaffer/Associated Press

Rudy Giuliani didn't appear in front of a grand jury in Georgia on Tuesday due to medical issues.

A doctor wrote a note saying Giuliani wasn't cleared for air travel after heart surgery.

A state judge suggested he make a road trip instead of traveling by plane to testify in Fulton County's election probe.

A Georgia state judge had an idea for how Rudy Giuliani could testify in Georgia after the Trump ally said he couldn't make it due to a medical condition: turn it into a road trip.

Giuliani  who had been ordered to appear before a grand jury as part of Fulton County prosecutors' investigation into 2020 election meddling  didn't appear in court on Tuesday after a doctor's note said he couldn't travel by plane.

So Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney suggested Giuliani travel on "a train, on a bus or Uber or whatever" to arrive in court by August 17.

"I'm confident he can figure out a way  short of a Greyhound  to get him to Atlanta," McBurney said during a hearing Tuesday with Giuliani's lawyers and state prosecutors. "Do it in 3 legs. [Do] you know folks in DC? Spend the night there."

The grand jury is investigating whether former President Donald Trump and his allies tried to interfere in the 2020 general election results in the state.

Giuliani's lawyer, William Thomas Jr., said the former New York mayor and Trump lawyer underwent surgery to implant heart stents at the beginning of July which is what is stopping him from getting on a plane.

His lawyers offered for Giuliani to call in via Zoom or meet with prosecutors in New York, but both options were turned down by Fulton Special Prosecutor Nathan Wade in court.

The back and forth over Giuliani's appearance started when last week his lawyers contacted Georgia prosecutors saying a recent medical procedure would stop him from traveling to the hearing, according to court records.

McBurney excused him from the originally scheduled testimony, but called Tuesday's hearing in its place.

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Prosecutors submitted evidence they said showed that Giuliani was OK to travel to the hearing. They shared documents showing Giuliani purchased airline tickets to Rome, Italy, and Zurich, Switzerland for flights between July 22 and July 29  after his medical procedure.

On Tuesday, his lawyers said "no such travel ever occurred," and that he had been invited to a conference overseas so "presumably," organizers or another party bought the tickets on his behalf.

He was scheduled to give a speech in Rome, but they canceled the appearance "based solely on his health."

Prosecutors also included a screenshot of an August 1 tweet that shows Giuliani in New Hampshire. Thomas said he traveled to the state "by a private car in which he was the passenger."

Giuliani was one of Trump's allies who create so-called alternate slates of pro-Trump electors in an effort to change the results of the election in states the former president lost in 2020  one of them being Georgia.

Read the original article on Business Insider
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  The U.S. Department of Justice asked a federal judge this week to bar Idaho from enforcing its near-total abortion ban while a lawsuit pitting federal health care law against state anti-abortion legislation is underway.

Meanwhile, the Republican-led Idaho Legislature is asking for permission to intervene in the federal case, just as it has done in three other abortion-related lawsuits filed in state courts.

The complex legal maneuvering playing out in Idaho is becoming increasingly common in red states as the American landscape of reproductive care continues to feel the aftershocks from the U.S. Supreme Courts decision overturning decades of abortion rights rulings. Judges in the neighboring states of Montana and Wyoming were weighing similar requests, with the Montana Supreme Court on Tuesday keeping three abortion laws on pause and the Wyoming judge expected to issue a ruling soon.

If allowed to go into effect, the Idaho law will cause significant irreparable harm, including to the public health of patients across Idaho, Justice Department attorney Lisa Newman wrote in court documents filed Monday.

The Justice Department sued Idaho last week over the state's strict abortion ban, saying it would force doctors to violate the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, a federal law that requires anyone coming to a medical facility for emergency treatment to be stabilized and treated.

The law enacted in 2020 and set up as a trigger law automatically takes effect on Aug. 25 now that the U.S. Supreme Court has overturned its landmark abortion rights ruling nearly a half-century after Roe v. Wade.

The law criminalizes all abortions, and anyone who performs, attempts or assists with abortions can face two to five years in prison in addition to losing their health care license. However, physicians who perform abortions to save a patient's life, or in cases of rape or incest, can use that information as a legal defense during the criminal trial.

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The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act requires hospitals that receive federal Medicare funds to provide stabilizing medical treatment to patients experiencing medical emergencies. Some of those patients are pregnant, the Justice Department said, and in some situations that emergency stabilizing treatment involves terminating a pregnancy.

Idaho has 52 Medicare-certified hospitals that together received approximately $3.4 billion in Medicare funds during the 2018, 2019 and 2020 budget years, according to the lawsuit, including about $74 million that was attributed to the hospitals' emergency departments.

Idaho's law is far narrower than the federal law, the Justice Department contends, and and puts physicians in impossible positions when they have patients with ectopic pregnancies, dangerously high blood pressure, serious infections and other life-threatening conditions.

Even in cases where termination of the pregnancy is necessary to prevent the patients death, the Idaho law requires a physician to risk arrest and prosecution for each abortion performed because the law affords only an affirmative defense that the physician must prove at trial," Newman wrote for the federal government. "By threatening physicians with criminal prosecution  even when they provide treatment in emergency, life-threatening situations as federal law requires  Idahos law penalizes and discourages such treatment, and thereby conflicts directly with federal law.

Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden's office has not yet responded to the lawsuit in legal filings, but Wasden issued a statement last week calling the lawsuit politically motivated and criticizing the Justice Department for not first seeking a meaningful dialogue with state officials on the issue.

The Idaho Legislature asked permission to formally intervene in the case on Monday.

The Legislature has unique understandings and insights into Idaho emergency room abortions (the only type of abortions at issue here) that will also assist this court in the just resolution of this civil action, the legislatures privately hired attorneys, Daniel Bower and Monte Neil Stewart, wrote.

Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill did not say in court documents when he would make a ruling on the Justice Department request to put the abortion ban on hold, but did set out a timeline requiring that friend of the court briefs like those from the Legislature be filed by Aug. 19 in the case.

The state of Idaho is also fighting three other abortion-related lawsuits in the Idaho Supreme Court. Those lawsuits, filed by a regional Planned Parenthood affiliate and a family doctor, take aim at the state's near-total abortion ban, another abortion ban that begins after six weeks of pregnancy, and a law allowing potential relatives of an embryo or fetus to sue abortion providers for at least $20,000.

Those cases are still pending in court.

In Wyoming, attorneys argued Tuesday over whether Wyomings abortion ban should continue to be suspended amid a lawsuit contesting the new law.

Four women, including two obstetricians, and two nonprofits, including one that planned to open a Casper womens health and abortion clinic that was firebombed in May, filed the Wyoming lawsuit. Wyomings law would allow abortions in cases of rape, incest and serious medical complications but the ban would force pregnant women in such circumstances and their doctors to grapple with the risk of prosecution, they argue.

Teton County District Judge Melissa Owens, in Jackson, showed sympathy with those arguments in temporarily suspending Wyomings abortion ban hours after it took effect July 27. After hearing similar arguments again Tuesday, Owens plans to rule no later than Wednesday on whether to continue to suspend the law.

Meanwhile in Montana, the state Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld a temporary injunction blocking three abortion laws passed by the 2021 Legislature from taking effect while a legal challenge plays out.

The challenged laws would have banned abortions passed 20 weeks, eliminated tele-health services for medication abortions and require abortion providers to offer patients the opportunity to listen to the fetal heart tone or view an ultrasound before performing an abortion.

___

Associated Press writers Amy Beth Hanson in Helena, Montana and Mead Gruver in Cheyenne, Wyoming, contributed.
Kanye West has done a U-turn and deleted his bizarre social media post mocking Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidsons split (Getty Images for Fast Company)

Kanye West has quietly deleted his social media post mocking ex-wife Kim Kardashians break-up with Pete Davidson after it reportedly upset her.

The rapper - who now legally goes by the name Ye, raised eyebrows on Monday when he uploaded a fake front page of the New York Times to Instagram announcing: Skete Davidson dead at age 28.

Smaller text below the headline read: Kid Cudi meant to play funeral but fearful of bottle throwers.

Kanye West has removed his distasteful social media post mocking Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidsons split (Kanye West / Instagram)

He has now done a u-turn and taken down the image after it sparked a furious online backlash.

The joke is said to have enraged Kardashian, with whom he shares four children, and follows reports that Davidson has been seeing a therapist for trauma therapy after enduring months of online harassment from West over his relationship with the SKIMS mogul.

The actor and comedian, 28, is believed to have first sought help in April after being triggered by the Gold Digger hit-maker, who made numerous threatening posts about him on social media including sharing an animated video featuring a character that looked like Davidson being buried alive.

He has been in trauma therapy in large part [due to Kanye], a source told People.

The attention and negativity coming from Kanye and his antics is a trigger for [Pete], and hes had to seek out help.

Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson have called time on their nine-month romance (Getty Images for The Met Museum/)

The insider added: [Pete] has no regrets for dating Kim and wants it to be made very clear that shes been nothing but supportive of him throughout their relationship. Moving forward he just wants to focus on his career.

Davidson and Kardashian called time on their nine-month relationship last week with sources close to the couple claiming that they struggled to maintain a long distance romance with her based in the US while he is currently filming a new movie in Australia.

Kardashian and Davidson have yet to address the break-up themselves.
Associated Press

The man charged with stabbing Salman Rushdie on a lecture stage in western New York said in an interview that he was surprised to learn the accomplished author had survived the attack. Speaking to the New York Post from jail, Hadi Matar said he decided to see Rushdie at the Chautauqua Institution after he saw a tweet last winter about the writer's planned appearance. Matar, 24, said he considered late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini a great person but wouldn't say whether he was following a fatwa, or edict, issued by Khomeini in Iran in 1989 that called for Rushdies death after the author published The Satanic Verses.
Kenya's William Ruto, the sharply-dressed deputy president now running for the top office, is one of the wealthiest men in the country but likes to portray himself as a champion of the poor and downtrodden.

Despite being dogged by corruption allegations going back years, the ruthlessly ambitious 55-year-old clawed his way to the corridors of power by playing on his religious faith and humble beginnings selling chickens by the roadside.

He has painted the August 9 poll, set to be a two-horse race between Ruto and veteran politician Raila Odinga, as a battle between ordinary "hustlers" and the elite "dynasties" that have dominated Kenyan politics for decades.

"We want everyone to feel the wealth of this country. Not just a few at the top," Ruto said as he criss-crossed the country promoting his "bottom-up" economic plan.

Ruto first dipped his toe into politics three decades ago, and has served as deputy president for nine years despite a very public and acrimonious falling out with his boss, the outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The shadowy rags-to-riches businessman is making his first stab at the presidency -- a post he thought he had in the bag as a reward for supporting Kenyatta in the 2013 and 2017 elections.

It was a political marriage of convenience in the aftermath of deadly post-poll violence in 2007-2008 that largely pitted Kikuyus -- Kenyatta's tribe -- against the Kalenjin, Ruto's ethnic group.

Both men were hauled before the International Criminal Court accused of stoking the ethnic unrest but the cases were eventually dropped, with the prosecution complaining of a relentless campaign of witness intimidation.

- 'Man on a mission' -

Their so-called "Uhuruto" alliance began unravelling after Kenyatta stunned the nation in 2018 with a pledge to work with Odinga, his longtime arch-rival who is now running with the endorsement of the ruling Jubilee party.

"I'm a man on a mission," Ruto declared last year, defying the president's call for him to resign as they clashed over Kenyatta's -- now failed -- bid to change the constitution.

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Shifting allegiances between political leaders are common in Kenya, where Ruto himself had once lent his support to Odinga before switching to Kenyatta.

"Ruto is seen by many people to be one of the most effective strategists in Kenyan politics," said Nic Cheeseman, a political scientist at the University of Birmingham.

"He's someone with extensive experience of running campaigns, performing very well in campaigns, of seeing politics from both sides. He stood with Odinga, he stood with Kenyatta, he knows most of these figures intimately well, he knows their strengths and weaknesses."

On the campaign trail, Ruto's venom was directed as much at Kenyatta as his rival at the ballot box, blaming the government for the country's economic woes and even accusing the president of threatening him and his family.

- 'Perfect storm' -

Clad in the bright yellow of his United Democratic Alliance, whose symbol is the humble wheelbarrow, Ruto has sought to reach out to those suffering most from the Covid-induced cost of living crisis that has been aggravated by the war in Ukraine.

"I think what Ruto did that was clever is it's the perfect time, he picked the perfect storm," said Kenyan political analyst Nerima Wako-Ojiwa.

But she added: "A lot of people have this fear that if he enters leadership, he is going to be the kind of person that we cannot take out."

Observers attribute Ruto's aggressiveness to the fact he has had to struggle to get everything he has achieved in life from his lowly start in Kenya's Rift Valley, the Kalenjin heartland.

"I sold chicken at a railway crossing near my home as a child... I paid (school) fees for my siblings," he once said. "God has been kind to me and through hard work and determination, I have something."

His fortune is now said to run into many millions of dollars, with interests spanning hotels, real estate and insurance as well as a vast chicken farm.

A teetotal father of six who describes himself as a born-again Christian, Ruto seldom lets a speech go by without thanking or praising God or reciting from the Bible.

He first got a foot on the political ladder -- and detractors claim, access to funds -- in 1992. After completing studies in botany, he headed the YK'92 youth movement tasked with drumming up support for the autocratic then-president Daniel arap Moi, also a Kalenjin.

In 1997, when he tried to launch his parliamentary career by contesting a seat on his home turf of Eldoret North, Moi told him he was a disrespectful son of a pauper.

Undeterred, Ruto went on to clinch the seat, which he retained in subsequent elections.

His detractors say he siphoned money from the YK'92 project and used it to go into business, and allegations of corruption and land grabs still hang over him.

But he dismisses such claims, once telling local media: "I can account for every coin that I have."

bur/sva-txw/ri
A file photo of Kevin McCarthy and then-President Donald Trump. Anna Moneymaker/The New York Times/POOL/Getty Images

McCarthy threatened to investigate the DOJ and Merrick Garland after an FBI raid on Mar-a-Lago.

He currently has no power to do that, but would if the GOP retakes the House in the mid-terms.

Trump allies are seeking to portray the probe as politically motivated.

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy threatened to investigate the DOJ and Attorney General Merrick Garland, using powers the Republican Party would gain if it retakes the House in November.

The investigation was in response to a Monday FBI raid on Donald Trump's Florida home, Mar-a-Lago.

In a statement Tuesday, McCarthy denounced the search conducted by FBI agents in Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort.

Multiple reports said the raid was part of an investigation into the handling of classified information after Trump left office in January 2021.

"I've seen enough. The Department of Justice has reached an intolerable state of weaponized politicization," McCarthy said in a statement.

"When Republicans take back the House, we will conduct immediate oversight of this department, follow the facts, and leave no stone unturned."

"Attorney General Garland, preserve your documents and clear your calendar," McCarthy said.

McCarthy told Punchbowl News newsletter he was considering appointing a special investigative committee as the vehicle to carry out his plan, but said it was still in the early stages.

"I gotta talk to my members and see where we go," McCarthy told the outlet.

After news of the raid broke, Trump denounced it as "political persecution" and said agents had broken into a safe. He is the first former president to have their property raided as part of a federal investigation.

Allies of Trump echoed the criticism, claiming the FBI was part of a political plot against Trump, who has openly flirted with a 2024 campaign to regain the presidency.

The House has broad powers to scrutinise and investigate branches of government, including potential abuses of power by officials.

McCarthy hasn't laid out a specific basis for launching an investigation.

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Among the key aims of Garland since taking office, according to reports, has been to reestablish the Justice Department's independence after its politicization under Trump.

White House aides said they had no warning about the raid and learned about it from social media, CBS News reported.

The DoJ is currently investigating President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, on tax crime allegations. Some commentators noted that the raid came at a politically inconvenient time for Biden, who is trying to capitalize on recent successes in Congress, particularly the passage in the Senate of the Inflation Reduction Act.

Read the original article on Business Insider
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.  Sharief Hadi, a halal market and cafe owner, left Afghanistan in the 1980s and settled in the United States for what he thought would be a safer life.

But after the murders of four Muslim men in the city in the last few months  including his brother Mohammad Zaher Ahmadi  Hadi's faith in the American dream is shattered.

"I thought I was living a dream, but its no dream. It's the opposite," Hadi, 73, said in a phone interview Monday. "They took my brother's lovely life. I don't care about my life anymore."

The spate of murders across the Albuquerque area has stunned the city and shaken the small, close-knit Muslim community, fueling fears of a racist serial killer on the loose.

Albuquerque law enforcement officials believe the killings of 62-year-old Ahmadi, 41-year-old Aftab Hussein, 27-year-old Muhammad Afzaal Hussain and 25-year-old Naeem Hussain might be linked.

Image: People sprinkle dirt over the grave of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, N.M., on Aug. 5, 2022. (Chancey Bush / Albuquerque Journal via ZUMA Press Wire)

Authorities said Sunday they identified a "vehicle of interest" connected to all four slayings, and the FBI is assisting local officials with the investigation. Police said they have not yet determined a motive.

Ahmad Assed, the president of the Islamic Center of New Mexico, a mosque that all four victims attended, said in an interview Monday that he felt "broken" and "devastated," as did many in a community he described as "disheartened."

"They feel a certain helplessness, they're in fear," Assed said of Muslim community members. "Their whole world has been flipped upside down."

He added: "Everybody is very deflated and eagerly awaiting some response as to why?"

Assed said the Islamic Center is the heart of social interactions between community members. In the wake of the killings, many local Muslims have chosen to stay home, where they feel safe and "not take chances to come to the mosque," he said.

Hadi, the halal market owner, echoed that comment. He said that Muslim people in the area appear to be too frightened to go outside for fear of being senselessly gunned down.

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"They don't want to go to the store. They don't want to go pray. They don't want to go to the mosque," Hadi said, his voice rising in anger. He added that his own business has suffered in recent weeks.

Ahmadi was killed on Nov. 7, according to police. Several months later, three more Muslim men were gunned down. Aftab Hussein, who was born in Pakistan, was killed on July 26. Muhammad Afzaal Hussain was found dead on a sidewalk last Monday. Then, just before midnight Friday, Naeem Hussain was found dead, too.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, said it was offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest of whoever is behind the killings.

President Joe Biden decried the murders, saying in a tweet Sunday that his "prayers are with the victims families, and my Administration stands strongly with the Muslim community."

"These hateful attacks have no place in America," Biden added.

The four men all left behind relatives, friends and colleagues who are struggling to understand the bloodshed.

Naeem Hussain's body was discovered in the parking lot of Lutheran Family Services Rocky Mountains, a nonprofit that had helped him resettle in Albuquerque. Hussain was born in Pakistan and came to the U.S. as a refugee several years ago seeking better opportunities, according to his brother-in-law, Ehsan Shahalami. He just became a U.S. citizen on July 8.

Shahalami said that during a shopping trip with his wife, children and Hussain last month, Hussain bought a new suit, dress shirt and shoes for his oath of citizenship ceremony.

"He was very excited about that ceremony," said Shahalami, 37, a Virginia resident. "Because now he was becoming a U.S. citizen. He obviously took pride in that."

Hussain worked as a truck driver and saved up enough money to buy a truck of his own that he insisted on driving when the pandemic began. "A lot of drivers basically took unemployment because of the Covid situation and when it came to Naeem, he said, 'You know, the country needs us more than any time right now. So we need to keep driving and try to influence other drivers to keep driving,'" Shahalami said.

"Naeem should be remembered for who he truly was  a genuine, giving man," Shahalami said. Hussain loved being outdoors, especially camping and fishing, and was known to drive around with fishing rods in his car.

Shahalami said that although it is their wives who are sisters, he considered Hussain a brother and that the two were very close. They spoke regularly and spent the Fourth of July together in Virginia. Hussain had planned to bring his wife from Pakistan to the U.S. after he became a citizen.

"He actually had some good business plans for the future but not knowing of the future obviously," Shahalami said. "Those plans are no longer."

Muhammad Afzaal Hussain's brother, Muhammad Imtiz Hussain, told NBC News that he feels scared for his life, haunted by the knowledge that his brother was gunned down near seemingly normal residential streets  "places my kids go for bike riding."

The late Hussain was the planning and land use director for the city of Espanola, roughly 90 miles north of Albuquerque. Vince Baldonado, one of his colleagues, described feeling anxious when Hussain did not show up at the office last Tuesday.

"We were all asking each other, 'Did you get a call?' Did you get a text? Is he stuck in traffic?' We didn't think the worst ... but then we heard."

Baldonado, 42, eventually learned through another colleague that Hussain had been found dead the night before.

"I couldn't believe it," Baldonado said. "I've never lost a friend to gun violence. He was my supervisor, my boss, my close friend."

Baldonado added that he had planned to go fishing and camping with Hussain sometime before the end of the summer. He recalled with affection that Hussain always took an interest in his children, encouraging Baldonado to enroll them in STEM classes.

"He didn't have a single mean bone in his body," Baldonado said.

Guad Venegas reported from Albuquerque; Daniel Arkin and Janelle Griffith from New York.
Taiwan's government warned Tuesday that China's ongoing military exercises around its shores were not only a rehearsal for an invasion of the tiny, self-governing island, but an indication that Beijing intends to take control of huge swaths of the western Pacific. The warning came as Taiwan's military conducted its own exercises, clearly intended to show readiness to defend against any Chinese invasion.

China considers Taiwan its own territory, and President Xi Jinping has made it clear that he intends to exert control over the island, by force if necessary.

His regime was infuriated by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan earlier this month, which Beijing considered a direct challenge to China's claim over the island. Beijing immediately launched the dramatic war games around Taiwan in response, in addition to ending a number of cooperation agreements with the U.S. on everything from defense to the environment.

China has flown warplanes across the sea boundary that separates Chinese and Taiwanese waters daily during the drills, and it has also launched missiles into the waters surrounding the island.

"China has used the drills in its military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan," the island's foreign minister, Joseph Wu, said Tuesday. "China's real intention is to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and entire region."

Here are a few essentials to understand about the ongoing military exercises, and both sides' capabilities.

What are China's military exercises off Taiwan intended to show?

China's military drills  unprecedented in scale and intensity  have sought to surround the democratic, self-governing island with six active zones. In doing so, China has demonstrated an ability to, and practiced, cutting off access to the Taiwan Strait that separates the island from the Chinese mainland. It has severely restricted access to Taiwan's major ports in the process.

A Chinese military jet flies over Pingtan island, one of mainland China's closest points to Taiwan, in Fujian province, August 6, 2022. / Credit: HECTOR RETAMAL/AFP/Getty

The exercises show China's military operating in areas that would allow it to attack Taiwan's primary military bases, and effectively prevent escape from the island by sea.

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The U.S. Defense Department says it still believes China will not launch an invasion of Taiwan in the next two years. But China's prolonged show of force is seen not only as a way of practicing for a blockade and invasion, but also as an attempt to normalize Chinese aggression in the Taiwan Strait.

How does Taiwan's military compare to China's? Can it defend itself?

Taiwan has fewer than 200,000 active-duty military personnel compared to China's 2 million. Taiwan's compulsory military duty  for men only  is just four months, arguably too short to prepare soldiers for active combat.

Taiwan has about a fifth as many combat aircraft as China, and most of its fighter jets are dated.

This week, Taiwan has held what it called regularly scheduled defensive drills, firing artillery out to sea. The exercise was carried out by hundreds of troops and involved several dozen howitzer artillery pieces.

Taiwan's military conducts artillery live-fire drills at Fangshan township in Pingtung, southern Taiwan, August 9, 2022. / Credit: Johnson Lai/AP

War simulations by U.S. experts predict that if the U.S. were to help defend Taiwan from a hypothetical Chinese attack, the island could successfully resist invasion. But the damage to Taiwan, physically and economically  not to mention the cost to U.S. forces  would be enormous.

President Biden has said the U.S. would intervene military to defend Taiwan if China were to attempt an invasion.

Mainland China and territory controlled by the Chinese government is show in yellow, while territory claimed by, but uncontrolled by Beijing, including Taiwan, is depicted in brown on this map. / Credit: Getty/iStock

If the war games continue, could it impact global trade?

Despite China's indefinite extension of its military exercises this week, shipping in the Taiwan Strait  one of the busiest shipping and air routes in the Asia Pacific region  appeared to be returning to normal on Tuesday after some disruptions.

But we're seeing Chinese aggression playing out in non-military ways, too.

Japan's Nikkei newspaper reported that Apple had asked its parts suppliers to stop using "Made in Taiwan" labels on shipments bound for China, and to start labeling components as being made in "Taiwan, China," or "Chinese Taipei."

From 2001: David McCullough on founding father John Adams

Retired FBI agent discusses search of Trump's Mar-a-Lago home

FBI searches Trump's Mar-a-Lago home in classified White House documents probe
By Hyonhee Shin

SEOUL (Reuters) -The foreign ministers of South Korea and China held talks on Tuesday as Seoul explores ways to reopen denuclearisation negotiations with North Korea and resume cultural exports, such as K-pop music and movies, to China.

South Korea's top diplomat, Park Jin, arrived in the eastern port city of Qingdao on Monday for meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in the first high-level visit to China by a member of President Yoon Suk-yeol's administration.

The talks come amid intensifying Sino-U.S. rivalry, and Park was also expected to reassure Beijing about bilateral ties despite stronger ties with Washington and tensions over Taiwan.

Wang said both sides should remain "independent, free from external obstacles and influences", and respect each other's issues of important concerns.

"We must uphold a 'win-win' position to protect stable and smooth supply chains and industrial networks, and should not interfere in each other's internal affairs based on equality and respect," he said, according to the Yonhap news agency.

Park said the two countries should foster common interests based on mutual respect and universal values and norms as the relationship marks its 30th anniversary this year.

He said before leaving for China on Monday that South Korea's position of respecting one China remains unchanged, but maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is essential to regional security and prosperity.

Park also asked for China's constructive role in persuading North Korea to choose dialogue, not provocations, as the Yoon administration seeks to curb the reclusive country's weapons tests and restart denuclearisation talks, which have stalled since 2019.

"The peace and stability on the Korean peninsula are under unprecedented threats," he told Wang at the outset of the talks.

"Based on the consistent principle of North Korea's complete denuclearisation, we will respond sternly to provocations and always keep the door for dialogue open."

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Park also said on Twitter before the talks that he would propose joint action plans to strengthen relations and discuss the issue of stabilising global supply chains.

Also high on the agenda was boosting cultural and people-to-people exchanges as well as restarting exports of K-pop and Korean movies, dramas and games, which have been effectively banned amid tension over the THAAD U.S. missile defence system stationed in South Korea, Park said.

Both sides face a potential flare-up over THAAD and Seoul's possible participation in a U.S.-led chip alliance involving Taiwan and Japan, which China opposes.

China argues THAAD's powerful radar could peer into its airspace, and sharply cut trade and cultural imports with South Korea after Seoul announced the system's deployment in 2016, dealing a major blow to bilateral relations.

(Reporting by Hyonhee Shin; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan and Alex Richardson)
Former President Donald Trump speaks to supporters at a rally on April 2, 2022, near Washington, Michigan. Scott Olson/Getty Images

Former President Trump met with investigators months before the FBI search on Monday, sources told CNN.

Investigators asked where Trump stored his documents and attorneys showed them a basement room.

After the meeting, Trump's attorneys received a letter asking to secure the room, sources told CNN.

Months before the raid on his Mar-a-Lago residence, former President Donald Trump's lawyers recieved instructions to "secure the room" in which he stored his documents, sources told CNN.

The sources told CNN aides added a padlock in order to secure the room.

On Monday, Trump confirmed reports that the FBI executed a search warrant at his Palm Beach, Florida, residence.

Sources told ABC News the search was related to 15 boxes of documents Trump took from the White House to Mar-a-Lago resort following the end of his presidency. During the FBI's search Monday morning, the agency was verifying that no other documents were still at the resort after the National Archives retrieved the documents in February, a source told CNN.

Investigators met with Trump's lawyers at Mar-a-Lago months ago to evaluate the documents Trump had taken during his time at the White House, CNN reported. Trump was also present during the meeting, albeit momentarily, sources told CNN.

The CNN report does not specify when exactly investigators met with Trump, but said Trump aides were interviewed about the documents by the FBI in April and May.

During Monday's search of his office, Trump was at Trump Tower in New York City.

After investigators asked to see where Trump stored his documents, attorneys for the former president took investigators to the basement room at Mar-a-Lago. Days later, the attorneys received a letter asking to lock that same room, sources told CNN. The report does not mention who sent the letter.

Representatives for Trump did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Aug. 8LEBANON  Lebanon resident and two- time brain tumor survivor Leigh Melia will be running in the 50th Annual Falmouth Road Race to raise money for the National Brain Tumor Society.

The race will take place in Falmouth, Mass. on Aug. 21, beginning at 9: 20 a. m. It is a seven- mile race along the town's shore.

The race includes more than 12,000 runners, ranging from Olympic runners to those who run recreationally. Those running in the race are raising money for various charities.

In March, Melia was chosen to join the National Brain Tumor Society Gray Endurance Team to run the race. Her goal is to raise more than $ 2,000 from the race.

In 2013, Melia began experiencing brain tumor symptoms, including headaches, fatigue and knee discomfort. Her physician told her she was depressed and advised her to reduce her stress.

After the issues progressed to paralysis in her feet and balance problems, Melia decided to see a neurologist. The neurologist broke the news to Melia that she had a benign left parasagittal tangerine- sized tumor in her head.

" I will never forget the moment the neurologist handed me a post- it note with the words 5 cm and meningioma written on it," she said regarding the moment she learned of her brain tumor. " I remember saying ' I don't have time for this.'" At that time, Melia was a full- time teacher with two small children. With nearly every minute of her life accounted for, her life had suddenly changed.

A neurosurgeon removed the brain tumor, but it grew back in 2017. Melia needed surgery again, followed by radiation. However, this time around Melia had the support of the National Brain Tumor Society, as she began volunteering there in 2016.

" This time I had the support of not only my wonderful family and friends, but the friends I made through the National Brain Tumor Society," Melia said.

Melia has been stable since 2018. She is thankful to have survived both brain tumors.

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" Every day I am above ground is a good day," she said.

Melia is excited to run in the Falmouth Road Race and raise money to help prevent brain tumors.

" I am excited to join the NBTS ( National Brain Tumor Society) Endurance Team to combine my love of running with my love of this organization and what they do to support the brain tumor community," she said.

For more information on the Falmouth Road Race and to donate money to Melia, go to falmouthroadrace. com.

Follow the Chronicle on Twitter  @ thechroniclect.
UKRAINSKA PRAVDA  TUESDAY, 9 AUGUST 2022, 16:50

Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs and LDPR [Liberal Democratic Party of Russia] leader Leonid Slutsky arrived in Olenivka, to the pre-trial detention centre where Ukrainian prisoners of war were killed, and brought with him "international experts", in particular, from Nicaragua and North Korea.

Source: Leonid Slutsky on Telegram

Quote from Slutsky: "The international expert pool was able to see with its own eyes all the destruction and talk to eyewitnesses, including prisoners who survived the missile attack".

Details: Slutsky believes that he brought a solid representation of people whom he calls "international experts", including people who seemed to be journalists and analysts from Nicaragua and North Korea.

He also said that there were representatives of Italy, Germany and Serbia.

Background:

On the morning of 29 July, Russian-aligned propaganda media reported the shelling of a prison camp in Olenivka, Donetsk Oblast, where Ukrainian prisoners are being held. Russia has claimed that at least 53 prisoners were killed.

The Ukrainian Directorate of Intelligence believes that the killing of Ukrainian prisoners in Olenivka, Donetsk Oblast, was organised by the Wagner Group [a Russian private military company - ed.] on the personal instructions of Yevgeny Prigozhin, without coordination with the leadership of the Russian Ministry of Defense.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine, the Ministry of Defence, the Security Service of Ukraine and the Ombudsman of Ukraine demand that the UN and the ICRC, which acted as guarantors of the lives and health of Ukrainian soldiers, send their representatives to the prison camp.

Dmytro Lubinets, the ombudsman of Ukraine, asked the ICRC to organise his visit to the prison camp destroyed by the Russians in occupied Olenivka to inspect the bodies of dead Ukrainian prisoners and communicate with the wounded.

The Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation announced that it had invited UN and ICRC experts to the prison camp at the place of death of Ukrainian prisoners of war in Olenivka.

The families of Ukrainian soldiers are dissatisfied with the activities of international organisations, as they have not received any information about their relatives who have been held as prisoners for several months.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda!






The streets of Bloomfield will be bustling come next week, as Little Italy Days returns for its 20th year.

We have three packed stages of entertainment throughout the whole weekend, we have food galore, bocci, a kid zone, said event producer Sal Richetti.

The annual event will start next Thursday, Aug. 18, and last through Sunday, Aug. 21. Vendors will be set up on Liberty Avenue from Ella Street to Gross Street.

For more information on parking, scheduling, VIP tickets and sponsors, visit http://littleitalydays.com/

Richetti said the event is still free to attend, despite inflation increasing his costs.

There has been an increase all across the board, my entertainers cost more money, my tents cost more money, he said.

Richetti isnt passing that cost on to his vendors, either. He said they dont have to pay more to participate this year. In fact, he hopes the event will help those small businesses recover losses that have resulted from COVID-19 and supply chain issues.

Donatellis up the street just closed down, that was a real sad thing for people, said one hopeful festival attendee. Itd be a great time to support the local businesses that are still open.

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Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

TRENDING NOW:

1 killed in crash involving SUV, box truck on Route 51 in Fayette County Anne Heche in coma, critical condition after Los Angeles crash, spokeswoman says Woman charged after allegedly hitting multiple parked cars while leaving concert at Star Lake VIDEO: Woman charged after allegedly hitting multiple parked cars while leaving concert at Star Lake DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
Firefighters battling the McKinney Fire in Northern California on Monday remembered long-time U.S. Forest Service employee Kathy Shoopman, the first publicly identified victim of the fire. The fire burning west of Yreka has killed four people, and crews continue to search the area for other possible victims. The other three have not yet been publicly identified. Shoopman was at home in the small community of Klamath River when the fire started July 29, The Mail Tribune reported. The area was hard hit by the fire, with many homes burned.
A man dubbed the blindside kicker for committing violent assaults on women has been taken into custody after spending time on the run.

Isaiah Clay Lewis, 21, was taken into custody on Monday and was booked into the South Correctional Regional Jail at 3:05 p.m.

Police say Lewis kicked two women in the back of the head.

Tracy Roberts says she was kicked by the suspect while she was planting flowers in Belltown.

Another woman was kicked while riding a Metro bus.

One of the women suffered 10 fractures in her face, including her cheekbone, nose, sinus and eye socket.

In January 2021, Lewis was arrested in connection with the unprovoked assaults but was recently released from prison.

The Washington State Department of Corrections recently confirmed that Lewis had violated his parole, which resulted in a warrant for his arrest.
A Memphis man accused of killing his sons mother was indicted for second-degree murder in her death, Shelby County Dist. Atty. Gen. Amy Weirich said Tuesday.

Barry Medlock, 27, was identified as the person who dropped off his critically wounded ex-girlfriend at a hospital emergency room last summer and drove away with their baby son in the car.

RELATED: Man accused of killing his sons mother had history of domestic assault, records show

A grand jury indicted Medlock on counts of second-degree murder and convicted felon in possession of a firearm.

According to the D.A.s office, an investigation showed that shortly before 3 p.m. on June 27, 2021, a silver car pulled up to the emergency room of Regional One Health on Jefferson at North Dunlap, where the driver dropped off 23-year-old Marika Clark.

Clark had been shot in the neck and the legs and died a short time later.

Investigators said surveillance footage led them to Medlock, who was Clarks former boyfriend and father of their 7-month-old son.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) issued an Amber Alert for the 7-month-old boy who was missing at the time.

An MPD spokesperson said the baby was dropped off at a police station by an unknown person on June 29, 2021.

RELATED: POLICE: 7-month-old baby found safe; father still at large

According to the district attorneys office, Medlock was arrested days later, on July 1, 2021.

According to Medlocks criminal record, it wasnt the first time he had been accused of assaulting someone. In February and January of 2020 and December 2019, he was charged with domestic assault.

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Trending stories:
A Naples man is facing accusations of stalking after he purchased as many as 30 pairs of womens panties at a Walmart and began surreptitiously leaving them outside the home of two Florida women, according to the Collier County Sheriffs Office.

The mysterious deliveries began in mid-June, and one of the victims became so scared, she temporarily moved out of the house, the sheriffs office said in an Aug. 8 news release.

Investigators say the undergarments began appearing in the driveway, but subsequent deliveries were left closer and closer to the garage door.

In one case, pairs of panties were left outside the home four times in one night, with price tags still attached.

It was those tags that led to an arrest, after Cpl. Tamela Martin with the sheriffs office traced the purchases to a 42-year-old man, the sheriffs office said.

Martin began her investigation by reviewing a timeline of events and doorbell video footage of the suspect provided by the victims. The victims also provided pictures of the panties with the price tags on them, the sheriffs office said.

Martin researched the brand name and checked retail stores. She found the panties were a brand sold by Walmart. ... Based on the information Cpl. Martin provided, Walmart located security camera footage of a man purchasing seven pairs of the panties found outside the victims residence.

The stores video footage matched the man seen on the victims door bell camera, including the same clothing, officials said.

A break came when one of the victims called CCSO to report a man who resembled the suspect had just ridden his bike past her house, the sheriffs office said.

Deputies detained the man for questioning and linked him to the suspect seen in the Walmart and doorbell videos, officials said.

Investigators say the man acknowledged buying the panties and to knowing where the victims lived, but denied leaving them outside their home.

He faces two counts of stalking, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement placed a 287(g) program detainer on the suspect for possible deportation, officials said.

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Three dead after man takes hostage at Narcotics Anonymous meeting, Florida cops say

Shocking execution style double homicide in home chills rural Florida community

Sand dune collapses on Florida beach, smothering man recording the sunrise, cops say
HVAC companies across Massachusetts have been inundated with calls for air conditioning repairs during the latest heatwave.

Scott MacFarlane, owner of MacFarlane Energy in Dedham, told Boston 25 News that his company has been getting up to 100 requests for service daily.

He said his Cape Cod office is currently dealing with a three-day backlog.

The staggering stretch of days surpassing 90 degrees has been taking a toll on systems big and small.

Its like you trying to hire someone to plow your driveway in the middle of a snowstorm, said MacFarlane. The design temperature for Massachusetts, Greater Boston is 85 degrees.

MarFarlane said some air conditioning systems arent designed for weather this hot and humid.

We do get many calls when its been 95, 95, 98 degrees. I cant get my air conditioning under 78 degrees, explained MacFarlane. A lot of it can just be a design question.

He said a lot of the issues hes seeing with broken air conditioning units have been related to overdue maintenance.

They need to be serviced once a year or, at the very least, every other year, advised MacFarlane. They need to be cleaned and checked so you dont get mold and bacteria, to make sure the pressures are operating properly and that the filters are changed.

In some cases, air conditioning systems have simply been overworked by constant use.

Its been brutal. The second floor was really intolerable, said homeowner Ellen Caronna.

Caronna went nearly two days without air conditioning in her Needham home before it was fixed.

She believes the thermostat was set too low for her system to handle.

Pushed it beyond its limits. It cant keep up, said MacFarlane.

A service technician worked to resolve the problem Monday afternoon in a crawl space that surpassed 100 degrees.

Its such a relief, she added. We have our house back.

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Matcha may help improve the quality of sleep and emotional perception in those who consume it, a new study from Japan has found.

Traditionally consumed in East Asia, the powdered green tea plant has grown in popularity around the world in recent years for its rich and unique taste, but the latest research could encourage more people to try it for its health benefits.

Itoen, a Japanese green tea brand, and Molecular and Clinical Bioinformatics, a bioinformatics firm established by the University of Tsukuba, conducted the year-long clinical trial which investigated the effects of daily consumption of matcha.

Out of a group of 939 men and women between the ages of 60 and 85 who were diagnosed with either mild cognitive impairment or subjective cognitive decline, 99 were chosen to take part in the 12-month trial. Meanwhile, the rest  the control group  were given placebos.

More from NextShark: Milk tea brand in China recalled for looking too similar to laundry detergent

The treatment group consumed two grams of matcha every day in the form of a capsule rather than a hot cup. The control group, on the other hand, received colored cornstarch pills.

By the end of the year, researchers found that the treatment group had an improved quality of sleep based on the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. They also demonstrated a significant improvement in social cognition assessed with a facial expression recognition test, specifically, the precision of their perception of emotions based on facial expression, as per SoraNews24.

More from NextShark: Snack Company Rebrands as Asian American, Sales Increase By 54%

The fact that the matcha was consumed as a pill suggests that the treatment group reaped all the benefits of consuming matcha without the experience of afternoon tea times or even trips to the boba shop. In traditional Japanese ceremonies, matcha is whisked in hot water, sipped from a bowl and served with something sweet on the side.

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This suggests those who consume matcha in the form of sweets or confections may get the same benefits. More research is necessary to determine whether the results can be replicated.

The studys findings were presented at the recently concluded Alzheimers Association International Conference in San Diego.

More from NextShark: 'Top Chef' Winner Accused of Cultural Appropriation Over Sponsored 'Bibimbap' Recipe

Featured Image via Pixabay

More from NextShark: Miki Sudo wins eighth Nathans Hot Dog Eating Contest by scarfing down 40 hot dogs in 10 minutes
Florida Republican Rep. Matt Gaetz is under investigation by the Justice Department. Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Mark Lombardo says Trump and DeSantis do not want to associate with Gaetz.

Lombardo said it was because he is under investigation by DOJ over his relationship with a minor.

Lombardo says Gaetz has repeatedly made bad decisions while in office.

Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz's Republican primary opponent Mark Lombardo blasted the sitting congressman and said that former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis do not want to be associated with someone under investigation for allegedly sex-trafficking a minor. Trump has however not shied away from publicly praising Gaetz, including at a recent Conservative Political Action Conference speech.

"Trump or DeSantis have not endorsed Matt Gaetz. Have they in the past? Yes. Have they now? The answer is no. And the reason for that is that they can't afford the branding issue. The branding issue of being associated with a pedophile," Lombardo told Insider in an interview Tuesday.

Trump has not sent out a written endorsement of Gaetz, as he typically does for high-profile endorsements through his official communication channels. He however told attendees at a private fundraiser in April for the Florida lawmaker's reelection that Gaetz had his "full endorsement." He also recently heaped praise on Gaetz during a keynote address at CPAC, where he told the crowd that Gaetz "fights for freedom" and is a "great guy." Trump endorsed him in 2018.

Several Republicans have put more distance between themselves and Gaetz since it became public that the Justice Department was investigating whether he paid a 17-year-old girl to travel across states for sex, which is considered a federal crime.

The Florida congressman pushed back on Lombardo's remarks and pointed to videos where Trump encouraged people to go out and vote for Gaetz at a Turning Points USA Conference last month. In a video from the private fundraising event in April at Mar-a-Lago, Trump said Gaetz "has an endorsement from me, a 100% endorsement," referring to Gaetz.

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Gaetz's team argues Trump's statements at the private fundraiser and public praise constitute a formal endorsement.

"Mark Lombardo is obviously a liar, as proven by this video of President Trump endorsing me in front of thousands of people," Gaetz said in a statement to Insider.

Gaetz remains under investigation by the Justice Department as part of its ongoing probe into an alleged past sexual relationship with the minor although he's not been charged. Others in his inner circle have also come under investigation. His longtime associate Joel Greenberg, a former Florida tax official, pleaded guilty last year to several charges, including sex trafficking. Greenberg is expected to be sentenced to prison in December.

Lombardo's comments come weeks after the former chief of staff to Vice President Mike Pence Marc Short, also blasted Gaetz after the Florida lawmaker suggested at a conference that Pence would never be president.

"I don't know if Mike Pence will run for president in 2024, but I don't think Matt Gaetz will have an impact on that  in fact, I'd be surprised if he's still voting," Short said during a July CNN interview. "It's more likely that he'll be in prison for child sex trafficking by 2024, and I'm actually surprised that Florida law enforcement still allows him to speak to teenage conferences like that."

Lombardo, a Marine Corps veteran, will go head-to-head with Gaetz in Florida's primary elections on August 23. Lombardo said that Gaetz continues to make bad decisions while holding office and needs to be voted out.

"This is not gimmicks. He's not funny. He's not a party boy. This is serious stuff; he needs to be held accountable," he said.

This story has been updated to clarify that Trump has publicly praised Gaetz and told him he had his endorsement during a private fundraiser.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Nicole Linton appears Monday in Los Angeles County Superior Court for arraignment on murder charges stemming from a crash in Windsor Hills. (Frederick M. Brown / Pool Photo)

The nurse accused of killing five people last week when her Mercedes plowed into traffic at a busy Windsor Hills intersection had been involved in 13 previous crashes, Los Angeles County prosecutors alleged Monday in charging her with murder.

Authorities revealed new details about Thursday's crash and about the driver, Nicole Lorraine Linton, 37, whose permanent address is in Texas and who is currently renting a room in Los Angeles while working as a traveling registered nurse.

Prosecutors said they are reviewing multiple previous crashes linked to Linton  both in and out of California  including one in 2020 that involved bodily injury in which two cars were totaled. They provided few additional details, however.

Lintons attorney, Halim Dhanidina, asked the court Monday to continue her arraignment to October because he is reviewing her out-of-state history of documented profound mental health issues. Dhanidina did not elaborate on those issues but said the Windsor Hills crash could be linked to them.

Here's what we know:

The crash

California Highway Patrol officers investigate a fiery crash where multiple people were killed near a Windsor Hills gas station on Thursday. (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times)

Surveillance video just before Thursdays deadly crash shows a dark-colored Mercedes barreling down La Brea Avenue at high speed as dozens of cars cross on Slauson Avenue in Windsor Hills. Prosecutors say Linton was behind the wheel.

The Mercedes does not appear to slow before running a red light shortly after 1:30 p.m. The light had been red for nine seconds before the car barreled through the intersection, slamming into multiple cars, prosecutors said. The Mercedes burst into flames and hurtled into a light pole, where it came to rest. After the crash, a streak of fire burned on the ground, and billowing smoke could be seen from miles away.

Prosecutors say Linton was speeding as fast as 90 mph.

At least six vehicles were involved in the crash, according to California Highway Patrol investigators. In addition to the fatalities, eight people were injured.

Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. George Gascon said there is no evidence of any alcohol use by Linton at this point.

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In announcing charges against her Monday, he declined to discuss what led to the crash, saying it was still under investigation and he was not going to get into the details.

The aftermath

Candles, balloons and flowers at a street memorial to victims of a deadly crash at the intersection of La Brea and Slauson avenues in Windsor Hills. (Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times)

The impact of the crash and fire it caused killed 23-year-old Asherey Ryan; her 11-month-old child, Alonzo Quintero; her boyfriend, Reynold Lester; and their unborn child. Ryan was 8 months pregnant when she was killed. The boy she was carrying had been named Armani Lester, according to the Los Angeles County coroners office.

Two additional women killed in the crash have yet to be identified.

Linton was hospitalized with moderate injuries for several days before being taken into police custody.

Photographs posted online after the crash appear to show Linton sitting on the curb with a bloody arm. She seems to be wearing hospital scrub pants and a shirt that has writing on the breastplate and sleeve.

Images from the scene show massive front-end damage to the Mercedes, which rammed headfirst into a light pole. A law enforcement source told The Times that Linton suffered a broken foot and broken wrist in the collision, but the cars advanced air bag systems for a front-end collision seems to have protected her from the worst of the impact.

A specialized CHP accident investigation team is extracting data from the Mercedes computers that capture speed, braking and acceleration.

The charges

Linton was charged Monday with six counts of murder and five counts of gross vehicular manslaughter. The vehicular manslaughter charges are for the deaths of the four adults and the baby, who was about two weeks shy of his first birthday. Ryans unborn child cannot be included in those charges.

Linton faces up to life in prison if convicted of all charges.

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Natalie Stone denied her bail, which previously had been set at $9 million, at the request of the district attorneys office, which said she is a flight risk. Linton was set to leave L.A. and travel to Hawaii for work, prosecutors said.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Sirhowy Valley, Wales  Mikey Allen didn't plan to build a castle. He just needed somewhere to be alone, to find some peace. But he also needed something to occupy his time and drown out his thoughts. Hauling stones and logs up a remote mountainside in Wales was physically punishing. It left him with little time for reflection, and it gave him purpose.

"The goal has created some form of hope, has kept me alive to a certain degree," Allen told CBS News.

A combination of skill and luck kept him alive when he served as a lance corporal with the British Army in Afghanistan more than a decade ago. He was the point-man for his unit, which was tasked with uncovering roadside bombs. Death and injury were common during his seven-month tour.

British Army Veteran Mikey Allen works on his castle in the Welsh mountains. / Credit: CBS News

On one patrol in Helmand Province, he saw an Afghan National Police officer step on a mine laid by Taliban militants.

"There was a big explosion. Me and my colleague went sideways skidding across the floor. The best way I can describe it is it looked like his legs had been stuck together with superglue. Just, all different directions. His torso was twisted sideways."

Allen and his fellow soldier scrambled back to their feet and, amid the smoke and confusion, gave the badly wounded man emergency first aid.

"We called in a helicopter and took him back to Camp Bastion, but he died on the way back to camp," he said.

His brush with death made him question everything, even reality.

"You're kind of questioning, is this a second life? Is there something we don't know? It makes no sense."

Back at home in Wales, Allen suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.

"You come back and you feel a different person," he said. "Friends and family say you're not the same. It's like you've lost your soul."

Suffering from a debilitating back injury, he left the army and turned to drugs and alcohol. His marriage broke down, and then one day, so did he.

"I just kept eating painkillers, and eating them and eating them. And I hoped not to wake up."

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He did wake up, but life just got harder, so he retreated from society, finding solitude on the side of Mynyddislwyn Mountain, nestled in Wales' Sirhowy Valley.

"I was homeless, I didn't have any food, no money, no telephone," Allen said.

He built a wooden cabin in the forest on the mountainside, "away from everybody."

British Army veteran Mikey Allen works with raw stone from an abandoned quarry in the mountains of Wales, to continue work on his castle. / Credit: CBS News

"There were some local people that were really, really helpful. They'd give me a cooked dinner. Sometimes a simple cup of tea and chocolate biscuit made all the difference between not giving up and giving up."

But then disaster struck. He came home one day to find the cabin that had taken him months to construct gone.

"It had been completely torn down by the authorities," Allen said. "They were cutting the trees down in a year and they deemed it a fire hazard. So, my belongings  all my tools, my clothes, sleeping bag  was all gone."

A nearby farming family learned of Allen's plight and let him live for free in an old caravan on one of their fields. They also said Allen, 42, could use their land for his next project. It was that act of kindness that gave him the chance to truly start over.

British Army veteran Mikey Allen works on his castle in the Welsh mountains. / Credit: CBS News

For the next three years, Allen pushed his body to its limits: Carrying up to 130 pounds of stone at a time, all dug out of an abandoned quarry, on his back; chopping and carrying logs from the nearby forest, he began to construct a fortress. In doing so, he rebuilt his life.

It was a grueling task.

"The main part is collecting all the stone," said Allen. "For every one hour building, you've got five, six hours collecting stone in the first place."

Barely stopping to rest, he felt the intense labor bring an inner sense of calm. He also found love again.

Rachel Whiting met Mikey three years ago, when the castle was just a rough outline of a promise cut into the dirt.

"Mike and I felt that we'd known each other forever the day we met," Whiting told CBS News. "It was like meeting a best friend that I hadn't seen in years. That's how I felt when I met him. We've helped each other so much, in many ways."

British Army veteran Mikey Allen with Rachel Whiting. / Credit: CBS News

Whiting found that Allen's trauma made it easier for her to deal with her own troubles. On a February evening in 2011, she was told that her husband, who was also in the military, had committed suicide.

"For me, that night, it was complete and utter hell," she recalled. "It's a pain that will never go. You learn to manage it, but it never goes. This is what suicide leaves behind."

She credits the castle with lifting her mood during some dark moments, and cementing her relationship with Allen.

"Even when I feel like I don't want to do much and I'm having one of those days, he'll say: 'Are you sure you don't want to chop a tree down with me? Just try one stone, come on!' Oh, alright!"

As the castle has grown, so has the community around it. Around 100 people visit now ever week. Residents from the area, other troubled veterans, and just strangers inspired by Allen's story all trek up the mountain to sit and de-stress and take in the views of the beautiful valley stretching out below them.

Mikey Allen's castle is seen on a mountainside in Sirhowy Valley, Wales. / Credit: CBS News

Allen said his happiest day at the castle was during the first, long COVID-19 lockdown of 2020.

"I came across the top of the mountain and there's 30, 40 people, all big, happy smiling faces. Knowing how people were struggling during that lockdown and then to see so many happy faces, and waving to different families  that was a really special day."

Through the charity he's founded, Endex, Allen has made many more people smile. The castle has hosted yoga, meditation and fitness classes, along with mental health courses and skills training  including dry stone walling, the ancient technique Allen used to build his castle. Families who have children with special needs have also found support and guidance on the mountainside. And it's all free of charge.

Allen said more than 5,000 people have visited the castle, "from everywhere... America and Canada, Norway, Fiji."

He plans to finish the third and final floor in the coming months: More space, for more healing.

CBS News correspondent Roxana Saberi contributed to this report.

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BOSTON  A Milton man will spend six months on house arrest after pleading guilty to laundering romance scam money through a car dealership.

Augustine Osemwegie, 53, was sentenced to six months of house arrest and two years of probation, and ordered to pay a $5,500 fine, by U.S. District Court Judge Rya Zobel. He pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering.

Prosecutors say Osemwegie used his car dealership, vehicle auctions and international car shipping to launder and transmit money he stole through romance scams, pandemic unemployment fraud and other schemes.

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Osemwegie bought used cars with money obtained from scams, then shipped them to Nigeria where they were sold. He then gave most of the profit to the original scammers, minus fees starting at 10%, officials said.

Between October 2018 and Aug. 13, 2021, Ejad Auto Sales and Osemwegie exported 218 vehicles to Africa at a declared value of $1.3 million, the U.S. Attorney's office said.

In September 2020, during recorded calls and meetings with an undercover agent, officials said Osemwegie agreed to accept money gained through fraud from the undercover agent and transfer it abroad under the guise of purchasing a used luxury sedan.

Thanks to our subscribers, who help make this coverage possible. If you are not a subscriber, please consider supporting quality local journalism with a Patriot Ledger subscription. Here is our latest offer.

This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Milton man sentenced to house arrest for laundering romance scam money
Monkeypox has found its way to Randolph County, with the Health Department announcing the county's first official case Monday evening.

The individual, according to the Health Department, is currently isolating at home.

Randolph County's initial monkeypox case comes days after President Joe Biden's administration formally categorized the monkeypox outbreak as a public health emergency. The virus has several distinctive symptoms.

"Monkeypox is a rare, but potentially serious viral illness that typically involves flu-like symptoms, swelling of the lymph nodes, and a rash that includes bumps that are initially filled with fluid before scabbing over," reads information provided by the Health Department. "Monkeypox can look like some sexually transmitted infections or chicken pox. Most infections last two to four weeks."

Randolph County Health Director Tara Aker said her department is monitoring the case, adding that residents shouldn't panic while practicing caution.

"At this time, the risk of monkeypox transmission remains low, Aker said. Our Health Departments Communicable Disease team is monitoring the situation closely and is working closely with North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to respond."

While vaccines are available, their distribution is subject to certain statewide criteria. This entails anyone who has had contact, in the past two weeks, with a person diagnosed with monkeypox.

The Health Department specifies that anyone can get monkeypox and the virus doesn't discriminate.

The Center for Disease Control has some suggested actions for minimizing exposure to the virus. These include:

Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox.

Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox.

Do not kiss, hug, cuddle, or have sex with someone with monkeypox.

Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used.

Do not share eating utensils or cups that a person with monkeypox has used.

Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox.

Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom.

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"If you have an unexplained rash, sores, or other symptoms, contact your healthcare provider," the Health Department adds. "Keep the rash covered and avoid sex or being intimate with anyone until a medical provider has evaluated you."

For more information on monkeypox visit the CDC'S monkeypox portal at https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/index.html or the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services at https://epi.dph.ncdhhs.gov/cd/diseases/monkeypox.html.

This article originally appeared on The Courier-Tribune: Randolph County monitors its first case of monkeypox.
The mother of a Gastonia man shot to death by a Concord police officer during an attempted February car theft has sued in federal court, claiming that the officer broke the law when he shot her unarmed son multiple times, called in the incident, then opened fire again.

Brandon Combs, 29, died later that day at a Concord hospital. He had been shot five times while behind the wheel of Officer Timothy Larsons police SUV, the familys attorneys say.

The new complaint, filed Tuesday in Charlotte federal court by attorneys for Virginia Tayara, accuses Larson and the City of Concord of excessive force, assault and battery, wrongful and intentional death and gross negligence.

Atlanta attorney Harry Daniels told The Charlotte Observer on Tuesday that the complaint seeks some form of justice for the Combs family.

Brandon Combs rides around a Charlotte-area amusement park with his daughter, Allison, last summer. Combs was shot and killed by Concord police officers in February 2022 during a suspected theft at an auto dealership.

We cant expect real justice because we cannot go back in time to stop what happened, Daniels said in a phone interview prior to a scheduled 11 a.m. news conference in front of the uptown federal courthouse.

He also said the family hopes the civil complaint will jump start some criminal charge or indictment against Larson.

Police officers cannot be judge, jury and executioner. Thats why we have a criminal justice system. Thats why we have the rule of law, Daniels said.

Larson, who was later fired by his department, could not be reached for comment Tuesday. His attorney, Chris McCartan of Concord, did not respond to an Observer email seeking a response.

A spokeswoman for the City of Concord also did not respond to an Observer email seeking comment.

Combs death remains under investigation by the Cabarrus County District Attorneys Office, which has had the findings of a probe by the State Bureau of Investigation since June.

In February, Concord police said Larson had shot Combs, 29, following an early morning physical altercation at the Modern Nissan car dealership.

Daniels said the truth of what happened is captured on Larsons body-camera video, which he and the other family attorneys have seen but it has not been released to the public. The details, however, are included in the complaint.

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According to the lawsuit, Larson answered a burglary call at the dealership at 5 a.m. on Feb. 13 and discovered Combs trying to steal a Nissan pickup truck. After Larson stepped away from the pickup, Combs opened the drivers side door he had locked and fled.

He ran to Larsons patrol car and climbed in behind the wheel. The car was not moving. Larson, who stood at the passenger-side fender, fired five shots through the windshield, according to the complaint. He then called in the shooting to the police department dispatchers, then fired again.

Larson did not go to Combs aid, the lawsuit claims. Combs was alive when other officers arrived and removed him from the car, according to the complaint. He died an hour later at Atrium Health Cabarrus.

Larson, 27, later told the other officers at the scene that he shot Combs because he was trying to steal his SUV.

According to documents received from an Observer public records request to the City of Concord, Larson was fired May 20. He had been on the job for about two years when the shooting occurred.

In Larsons termination letter, police Chief Gary Gacek cited his former officer for insubordination for refusing to answer questions following the shooting and for giving misleading or untrue answers in other instances to his superiors and the State Bureau of Investigation, which handled the shooting investigation. Its unclear from the letter if the events surrounding the shooting were discussed.

Daniels, who represented the family of Andre Brown following his 2021 shooting death by deputies in Elizabeth City, has called the Combs footage one of the worst police-shooting videos he has ever seen.

We didnt know anything until we saw (the video). We watched it in utter disbelief, Daniels said.

The most disturbing thing is not the unjustified use of deadly force, but that (Larson) paused and then used deadly force again. The first five shots were bad enough. The last shot was overkill, man. It was overkill. I cant make sense of it.

In a statement included with the release of Larsons personnel file in June, Concord Police said they continue to cooperate with all sides of the investigation, including the familys lawyers.

We understand how difficult this time is for the Combs family, and we want to ensure they receive the answers they need to heal following the death of their loved one.

Police use of deadly force

In North Carolina and every other state, police officers are justified in using deadly force if they have a reasonable belief that they, their fellow officers or the public is in imminent risk of death or serious injuries.

The law is written around a landmark Supreme Court case, Graham v. Connor, which originated in Charlotte.

Every year, police fatally shoot about 1,000 people, a number that has remained largely unchanged despite widespread police reforms following the deaths of George Floyd and others, according to the Washington Post, which has tracked officer shootings for the past five years.

Both Combs and Larson are white.

Prosecutions of cops for on-duty shootings are rare; convictions even more so.

Under the Concord Police Departments use of force policy, officers are banned from shooting into vehicles unless they or others are being targeted by deadly physical force other than a vehicle, or the moving vehicle poses an imminent and ongoing threat of substantial physical harm to the officer or another person from which there is no reasonable means to escape.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the 1985 case of Tennessee v. Garner that officers cannot use deadly force to stop a fleeing suspect unless they are placed in imminent danger.

It is no doubt unfortunate when a suspect who is in sight escapes, Justice Byron White wrote in the ruling, which is excerpted in the lawsuit.

But the fact that the police arrive a little late or are a little slower afoot does not always justify killing the suspect. A police officer may not seized an unarmed, nondangerous suspect by shooting him dead.
In January 2019, a 62-year-old homeless man was found shot to death in his tent. On Tuesday, the trial of a man charged in the death began in retired Circuit Judge Willard Pope's courtroom.

La'Mathis Eugene "Bread Boy" Hamilton is charged with the first-degree murder of Roland Henry Lanctot. A 12-member jury is hearing the case. If convicted, Hamilton, 31, could spend the rest of his life in prison. He's presently at the Marion County Jail.

Ocala Police Department officers said Lanctot's body was discovered by his sister in a heavily wooded area near Northwest Blitchton Road and Northwest 33rd Avenue. The victim had been shot more than once, officials said.

Roland Henry Lanctot

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Deadly shooting

Hamilton, of Reddick, and Ocala resident Allison Mells, 57, are charged with Lanctot's killing. Authorities said the victim was killed because he was a crucial witness in a drug case that involved Mells son, Kenneth Mills.

Officials said Lanctot was a confidential informant and had conducted several drug transactions under the direction of the Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team or UDEST. Some of those deals included Mills.

Ocala Police Department detectives outside the tent where Roland Henry Lanctot's body was discovered.

Authorities believe the triggerman was Hamilton, and he admitted selling a gun to Mells after he was approached to help kill Lanctot.

Hamilton said Mells paid him $3,000 to kill Lanctot, but Hamilton has denied shooting the victim.

Mells is charged with first-degree murder and criminal solicitation to commit murder. His trial is scheduled for next week.

Opening statements

Tampa lawyer Daniel Hernandez is representing Hamilton. Assistant State Attorney Amy Berndt is prosecuting the case.

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In her opening statement to the jury, Berndt said Lanctot was shot in the face, back of the head and back with a .38-caliber gun. She said the victim was shot so he could "permanently silenced."

Berndt said Lanctot had a peanut business, was married, but had a rough patch. She said his wife divorced him and Lanctot would hang out at a Burger King not far from his tent.

The prosecutor said Lanctot's family helped him. She gave jurors a timeline of Lanctot's last contact to when his body was found.

Police officials picked up several clues during their investigation, Berndt said. For instance, in a traffic stop, a woman told officers that Mells had hired Hamilton to kill the victim.

Then, there was a phone call from the jail where Mells told someone that he needs to bail him out.

Third, there's a recording that implicates Hamilton as the shooter, according to Berndt.

Assistant State Attorney Amy Berndt

Hernandez told jurors that there's no forensic, scientific or physical evidence that links his client to the murder. He said the prosecution witnesses are "not credible." He added that while his client did speak with detectives, he was under the influence of drugs and lack of sleep.

The lawyer said his client felt pressured to get "the interview over with."

The defense lawyer said Mells had a motive to kill the victim and though Hamilton was offered money to do the job, he did not do it. Instead, he said, Hamilton scammed them.

Testimony in court

Hernandez and Berndt questioned more than a dozen people about the case. Lead Detective Richard Tuck told the court that investigators followed up on every piece of evidence they received.

He said during the investigation, they examined two theories, one of them being the death was a result of the victim being a confidential witness in a drug cases.

Before he was killed, Lanctot was robbed by two prostitutes, according to testimony presented in court.

Two women who testified for the prosecution did so reluctantly. Both women told what they knew about the case.

Ocala Police Department Headquarters Thursday June 30, 2022. [Doug Engle/Ocala Star Banner]2022

Hernandez questioned one woman, who at times would ramble and her head lowered while talking, about what she knew about the murder.

The defense lawyer made it known that she was a convicted felon, which she admitted, and would say or do anything against his client. She answered no, telling him she didn't lie to the police.

Family members of both the victim and Hamilton attended the trial, which recessed by mid-afternoon. The trial is expected to continue Wednesday morning.

Contact Austin L. Miller at austin.miller@starbanner.com

This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Trial begins for man accused of killing homeless man in Ocala, Florida
A map shows where an off-duty police officer was killed in a shooting in Downey

An off-duty Monterey Park police officer was shot and killed in a Downey mall parking lot Monday afternoon, according to authorities.

Officers were called around 3:25 p.m. to a report of gunshots at 12070 Lakewood Blvd., according to the Downey Police Department.

The address matches that of the Downey Landing shopping mall.

The officers found a man who'd been shot, police said. Despite receiving first aid, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

"Detectives were able to identify the victim as an off-duty officer of the Monterey Park Police Department," Downey police said. "The victims name is not being released at this time."

Monterey Park Police Chief Kelly Gordon said she and her department were in mourning Monday night.

Gordon, who spoke during a news conference around 8:45 p.m., said she was not releasing any information about the officer, including his name and how long he'd been with the department, out of concern for the investigation and respect for his family's privacy.

"The loss of any life is tragic ... especially when it's one of your own," she said. "It's a tremendous loss. We're a family, and that's the bottom line."

Gordon said her department and the city will support the officer's family any way they can.

Scott Loughner, Downey's acting police chief, provided a brief recap of the incident but did not share new information about the shooting or investigation.

Additional information, including the number of possible suspects, whether a motive is known and the slain officer's identity, was not shared Monday night.

Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to call Det. Ron Gee at (562) 904-2331 or Lt. Dwayne Cooper at (562) 904-2370.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Oklahoma leaders have filed a lawsuit against a company accused of breach of contract.

They said the state hired the company Class Wallet to distribute COVID-19 education funds during the pandemic. The lawsuit comes after federal auditors said Oklahoma failed to properly track COVID-19 relief money.

Our mission is to maximize all federal dollars available during this unprecedented time and ensure this money is spent with integrity, Gov. Kevin Stitt said.

Federal auditors, however, said that was not the case.

The state received nearly $40 million in pandemic assistance for the governors emergency education relief, or GEER, fund.

Federal auditors said $600,000 was spent on appliances, televisions and Christmas trees when it should have gone toward school expenses.




One person was killed and a juvenile was critically hurt Monday evening after a shooting at City Park in Kansas City, Kansas, according to the Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office.

Sheriffs deputies were dispatched shortly before 7:30 p.m. to the area of North 32nd Street and Park Drive, Capt. Kyle Harvey, a spokesman for the sheriffs office, said in a statement Monday night. A female victim was dead on scene and another described only as a juvenile was taken to the hospital, Harvey said.

Further information, including the identities of the victims, information regarding possible suspects and the events that preceded the shooting, was not immediately available.

Detectives with the Wyandotte County Sheriffs Office are leading the investigation. Authorities were asking anyone with information about the crime to contact the anonymous TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.
Aug. 9Now that August has arrived, area gardens, farmers' markets and the produce counters at your favorite supermarket are burgeoning with nice tomatoes, local sweet corn, beautiful bouquets of basil, peaches, zucchini, peppers and lots more.

And those who lead area cooking classes have responded to meet the demand for recipes and techniques to incorporate the deliciousness of freshly harvested produce into our summer.

Canning 101 is the descriptive title of a two-hour session from 7 to 9 p.m. Aug. 16 at Mentor's Wildwood Cultural Center, 7645 Little Mountain Road, led by Judi Strauss. The newest rules of canning will be her subject, and she'll share which foods are easiest to can and which should be avoided, along with when to use a water bath and when a pressure canner is needed. Tastes of home-canned foods will be included, so there's an $8 food fee payable to Strauss on class night. Registration is $18, with a $3 discount for Mentor residents. Register at 440-974-5720 or CityofMentor.com/parks-recreation.

Meanwhile, in Chester Township, the Loretta Paganini School of Cooking has classes concluding with meals on everything from peaches to pastas, lobster to meatballs. The classes will take place at the school, 8613 Mayfield Road, and a block away in the state-of-the-art kitchens at the International Culinary Arts & Sciences Institute. There, professional chefs are trained in college-level programs. Consumer classes, taught by Paganini and her staff of professional chefs, are usually 2.5 hours and costs vary. Check out what's available at lpscinc.com and register at 440-729-1110.

Chef Kate Csepegi leads the Flavors of the Great Lakes class at 6 p.m. Aug. 23. In it, she'll share the region's rich history and how it has shaped the cuisines developed in and around Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Ontario.

"I grew up in a snowmobiling family, and we spent a lot of winter time in Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota," she said. "And when I married my husband, who's from Madison, we visited Pennsylvania, New York. Illinois and Indiana. My taste memories of things I've enjoyed at places I've visited helped me create this class."

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The menu and the places include Buffalo-Style Chicken Wings with Blue Cheese and Celery (Buffalo, New York); Falafel with Tabbouleh (Dearborn, Michigan); Lake Erie Fish Fry with Tartar Sauce (Northeast Ohio); Pork Schnitzel with Spaetzle (German Village, Columbus); and Mini Dutch Apple Pies (Pennsylvania Dutch Country). This hands-on class is $75.

Too Many Tomatoes is a demonstration class that will be led by Paganini at 6 p.m. Aug. 30. Those who come should bring a small Mason jar to take home one of the evening's creations, which will include tomato sauce. oven-dried tomatoes. tomato pesto and tomato herb vinegar. The menu includes Ratatouille Vegetable Salad, Roasted Tomato and Basil Soup, Grilled Pizza, Grilled Chicken with Piperade Sauce and Bloody Mary Sorbet Pizzelle Cookies.

Csepegi has developed the Chinese Take-Out class for teens 12 through 17 set for 1 p.m. Aug. 20. Those joining the two-hour class will learn to make restaurant-worthy meals including Crab Rangoon, Pot-Sticker with Soy-Sesame Dipping Sauce, Cashew Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, Vegetable Fried Rice and Chinese Almond Cookies. It's $55.
ISLAMABAD (AP)  A suicide bomber targeted a security convoy in a former Pakistani Taliban stronghold in northwestern Pakistan, killing four soldiers, officials said Tuesday.

No one claimed responsibility for the attack on Monday in North Waziristan, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that borders Afghanistan. A military statement said four soldiers were martyred in the attack and that an investigation was underway.

The assault came a day after a late night roadside bombing in eastern Afghanistan struck a vehicle carrying members of the Pakistani Taliban, killing a senior leader and three other militants traveling with him.

The Pakistani Taliban blamed intelligence agents for the high-profile killing on Sunday night, without offering evidence or elaborating.

The slain senior leader of the Pakistani Taliban  the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP  was Abdul Wali, also widely known as Omar Khalid Khurasani. On Tuesday, TTP in a statement confirmed the killing of Khurasani, who had a $3 million U.S. bounty on his head. He was a tough negotiator and was part of the TTP team that has been holding peace talks with Pakistani officials in Afghanistan's capital since May.

Khurasani's death was a heavy blow to the TTP, which is in talks with the Pakistani government amid an ongoing cease-fire, announced in May. Isolated militant attacks have continued, though the TTP has not claimed responsibility for any of them since the truce first went into effect. The talks are being hosted by the Afghan Taliban.

Two local Pakistani intelligence officials told The Associated Press that Mondays suicide bombing in the town of Mir Ali also wounded an unspecified number of civilians and soldiers. The officials would not elaborate and spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media on the record.

North Waziristan and other former tribal regions in northwestern Pakistan were long a base for the Pakistani Taliban and other militant groups until the army claimed a few years back that it cleared the region of insurgents. Occasional attacks have continued, however, raising concerns the Pakistani Taliban are regrouping in the areas.

The Pakistani Taliban are a separate group but allies of the Afghan Taliban, who seized power in Afghanistan a year ago as the U.S. and NATO troops were in the final stages of their pullout.

The Taliban takeover in Afghanistan has emboldened the Pakistani Taliban to intensify their demands for stricter enforcement of Islamic laws in Pakistan, release of their members from government custody, and a reduction of military presence in Pakistans former tribal regions.
PESHAWAR, Pakistan  A top Pakistani militant who had a $3 million U.S. bounty on his head has been killed along with three others in Afghanistan, three senior leaders of his group told NBC News.

Abdul Wali, also known as Omar Khalid Khurasani, was killed in an explosion Sunday while traveling by car in the southeastern province of Paktika, the sources said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the attack had not yet been publicly announced.

Khurasani was a senior leader of the Pakistani Taliban, known as the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP, which seeks to overthrow the nuclear-armed government of Pakistan and replace it with a strict version of Islamic law. Though the Pakistani Taliban are a separate group, they are allied with the Taliban militants who seized back power in Afghanistan as the United States withdrew one year ago.

Abdul Wali. (Rewards for Justice / State Department)

Khurasanis death could jeopardize peace talks he was participating in between the TTP and the Pakistani government, which are being facilitated by the Afghan Taliban.

The Pakistani Taliban sources did not say who they believed was responsible for the attack on Khurasani and his three aides.

We received their bodies and started investigations to ascertain whether they died in an IED blast, drone strike or if they were shot dead, a senior member of the group said, referring to improvised explosive devices.

After those investigations are completed, we will issue a detailed statement whether to continue the peace talks with Pakistan or not.

The governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Reports of Khurasanis death in Afghanistan come a week after the U.S. said it killed Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in an attack in Kabul, the Afghan capital.

Khurasani split from the TTP in 2014 to form his own militant faction, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, which the United Nations and the U.S. have designated a terrorist organization. Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, which later joined the TTP, is accused of killing hundreds of people in multiple attacks on Pakistani forces and religious minorities, particularly Christians and Shiite Muslims.

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In March 2018, the Department of State offered up to $3 million for information on Khurasani under its Rewards for Justice program. He was also wanted by the government of Pakistan, which has conducted massive military operations against the TTP that have pushed many of the militants across the border into Afghanistan.

The group, which was founded in 2007, has experienced a resurgence since the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan last year, and Pakistan accuses Afghanistans renewed rulers of supporting it.

The Pakistani Taliban sources said the groups senior leaders had long been prohibited from traveling together in the same vehicle, and that it was not clear why Khurasani and his aides had done so.

They said Khurasanis body was taken to Nangarhar province, where he was based, and laid to rest there Monday.

We could not attend the funeral due to fears of drone strikes, as the drones were flying over parts of Nangarhar and Kunar provinces, a senior member of the group said.

Mushtaq Yusufzai reported from Peshawar, Pakistan, and Jennifer Jett reported from Hong Kong.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Papua New Guineas Parliament returned Prime Minister James Marape to power Tuesday following elections in the South Pacific Island nation.

He was nominated unopposed to lead the next coalition government at the first sitting of Parliament since the election.

Parliament resumed despite the election outcome being declared for only 104 of 118 seats by Tuesday. Counting continues in the remainder.

Marapes Pangu Party holds 36 of those seats, 20 more than the next most successful party.

Marape said in a statement that he had a memorandum of understanding for a coalition of 17 parties. Around 50 contested the election.

He said his main aim would be to stabilize and grow the economy, put in place sustainable debt financing and roll out government programs for education, health, law and order.

We will not be wasting time, Marape said.

All 97 lawmakers who attended Parliament supported Marapes nomination as prime minister.

Papua New Guinea has typically been governed by unstable, multiparty coalitions, but the countrys constitution wont allow a no-confidence motion to bring down Marape for another 18 months.

Papua New Guinea is a diverse tribal society of 9 million people who are mostly subsistence farmers and speak more than 800 languages.

The leading contenders to head the new government had been Marape and his predecessor who resigned in 2019, Peter ONeill.

ONeill had attempted to delay the sitting of Parliament until vote counting was finished. But his application for a Supreme Court injunction failed.

Since independence from Australia in 1975, Papua New Guinea has held elections marred by violence, fraud and bribery. Police at the outset of voting on July 4 urged citizens not to sell their votes to any candidate and fights broke out over allegations of vote-fixing. Voting ended on July 22.

Marape apologized last month to thousands of people who were turned away from polling stations because of problems with electoral records.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on Tuesday said the FBI sweep of former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate shows that no one in the United States is above the law  not even a former president.

"We believe in the rule of law. That's what our country is about," Pelosi said in an interview with NBC's "Today" show. "And no person is above the law. Not even the president of the United States. Not even a former president of the United States."

Pelosi's comments came hours after the news that the FBI executed a search warrant at Trump's private club and residence in Florida late Monday, enraging Trump and his Republican allies in Congress.

Nancy Pelosi appears on NBC's "Today" show on Tuesday. (NBC)

According to multiple reports, the raid was related to an investigation into Trump's potential mishandling of classified documents. In May, a federal grand jury began investigating whether he had mishandled top-secret documents, including taking 15 boxes of material to the Florida resort.

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida is currently under siege, raided and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, Trump said in a statement posted to Truth Social, his social media website. "It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by the Radical Left Democrats who desperately don't want me to run for President in 2024."

Police outside an entrance to former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Fla., on Monday. (Wilfredo Lee/AP)

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy vowed to launch an investigation into the Justice Department's decision to raid Trump's home  if Republicans take back control of the chamber in the upcoming midterm elections.

"When Republicans take back the House, we will conduct immediate oversight of this department," McCarthy said in a statement, adding: "Attorney General Garland, preserve your documents and clear your calendar."

Asked about McCarthy's promised probe, Pelosi said, "Whatever the leader is saying is probably idle," because she believes Democrats will retain control of the House this fall.

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Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort. (Marco Bello/Reuters/File)

Pelosi, who recently returned to Washington, D.C., after a controversial trip to Taiwan, said she did not know much about the FBI raid and learned about it from a news alert on her cellphone.

"It will be interesting to find out exactly what the warrant was," she said, "but, again, we can only speculate."

The New York Times and Washington Post reported Monday evening that the raid appeared to be centered on material Trump took with him from the White House to Mar-a-Lago after he left office.
An automated school zone enforcement system began operation at four Perry schools earlier this month.

The Perry Police Department implemented the new program to monitor drivers and deter speeding in school zones. After a 30-day warning period, police will mail speeding tickets to drivers that exceed 10 mph over the speed limit during school hours.

School hours are from one hour before school starts to one hour after school ends.

The automated enforcement system manufactured by Redspeed International uses cameras and radar technology to monitor up to 350 cars simultaneously. The department says the radar is accurate within 0.1 mph.

Visible signage is in place to warn drivers at the four schools where the system is currently operational: Tucker Elementary, Morningside Elementary, Mossy Creek Middle and Perry High. The department is waiting for approval from the Georgia Department of Transportation to activate the system at two remaining schools: Perry Middle and Matt Arthur Elementary,

During the current 30-day warning period, any drivers the system catches speeding will receive warning notices in the mail. The warning period is a courtesy to inform drivers about the new system before enforcement starts.

Starting Sept. 1, speeders will receive tickets in the mail. Every violation flagged by the system will be manually reviewed and approved by a sworn officer before a ticket is issued.

The fine for the first violation is $75 and $125 for subsequent violations.

Over the past 10 years, theres been a nationwide spike in pedestrian fatalities due to a combination of speeding and distracted driving, Perry Communications Manager Tabitha Clark said. Were focusing on the safety of the students and pedestrians walking to school. Were using this automated enforcement that is endorsed by the Georgia Governors [Office of] Highway Safety  as a way to help people remember and realize to slow down and pay attention in school zones.

This also will help the efficiency of the Perry Police Department as far as their workload. So while they are responding to calls, we can use this automated enforcement tool to make sure that were able to be proactive in those areas.

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A portion of the paid citation revenue will go to Redspeed International to maintain the system. The rest will be put toward Perry law enforcement activities such as purchasing new equipment or funding new school resource officers, as required by state law.

We have high hopes that automated enforcement will encourage drivers to slow down and obey the law, Interim Police Chief Alan Everidge said in a press release. Traffic fatalities are the number one cause of death for children aged 5-14 and for young adults (aged 15-29). Very minimal reductions in speed make the roads a lot safer, especially for children.

For more information, visit the frequently asked questions page on the Perry website.
Owner Liza Jones and Pepper pose near the sign to Dirty Paws Salon on Steel Bridge Road near Mooresboro Monday morning, July 25, 2022.

A Moorseboro native has returned to her hometown and brought her own business with her.

In April, Liza Jones opened Dirty Paws Pet Salon, 1016 Steel Bridge Road, Mooresboro. The business promises individual grooming services for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Services offered at the salon include nail trimming, bathing, flea dips, de-shedding treatments and hair cuts.

The salon sits in a small storage building which has been refitted with electricity and plumbing. A large tub used for baths is welded in place in one corner of the salon, and a grooming station built from the remains of a barber's chair is nearby.

All of the work is done by Jones, who has been working with animals since she was young and grooming pets for much of her life. By doing all of the work herself, Jones said she is able to guarantee consistent results for her customers and reduce stress on the animals with which she works.

The exterior of Dirty Paws Salon on Steel Bridge Road near Mooresboro Monday morning, July 25, 2022.

"In some bigger places you might have three or four people working on dogs at one time. Here I work on one dog at a time, and it's one-on-one, me and the dog," said Jones.

On average, appointments take between 90 minutes and two hours, depending on the size of the dog and services needed.

"A lot of people will drop their dogs off and go run their errands while I work with them. I call (the owners) when I'm done so they can come pick up their dog," Jones said.

All of the products used in the shop are all-natural, Jones said, to avoid any possible allergy issues for animals.

The new salon is Jones' second attempt at operating a pet grooming business. In 2007 she opened a grooming business in South Carolina, but Jones said she was forced to close when her land and building were sold to the state for a highway widening project.

Jones said she always planned to reopen the business elsewhere, but it took her a few years to find a place to put it. Now that it's open again, she's excited to be back in business.

"You know if you love what you do it's never really work," she said. "I do love this. I love working with animals."

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Already, the business is attracting regular customers.

Shes wonderful," said Danny Powell, who has appointments for his dog Carley every three weeks. "She's just nice and polite to the dog, and the dog loves her.

Denise Harris, another regular customer with an 8-year-old Yorkie mix named Benji, agreed. Shes really good and shes fair priced too, she said.

As of Monday, Jones said she still has space for more small and medium sized dogs.

Appointments can be made by calling 704-473-1518 or messaging the salon's Facebook page, facebook.com/Dirtypawspetsalon1

Nine-year-old Kinsley Baerga, Pepper and salon owner Liza Jones inside Dirty Paws Salon on Steel Bridge Road near Mooresboro Monday morning, July 25, 2022.

This article originally appeared on The Shelby Star: Dirty Paws Pet Salon opens in Mooresboro
Jeff Kravitz / Contributor/Getty Images

Pete Davidson and Kim Kardashian broke up after a nine-month romance.

In a 2021 interview with The Breakfast Club, Davidson spoke about honesty and game-playing in relationships.

A relationship expert said Davidson's advice is good, but don't overshare too much too fast.

Pete Davidson and Kim Kardashian's nine-month romance has come to an end. On August 8, they announced they split amicably, citing busy schedules and long distance as reasons for their breakup.

Davidson previously dated Ariana Grande, Kate Beckinsale, and Bridgerton star Phoebe Dynevor, and has said he always tries to be his authentic self in his relationships.

During a May 2021 interview with The Breakfast Club, while dating Dynevor, the comedian shared his three keys to a successful relationships.

In The Breakfast Club interview, Davidson didn't mention Dynevor, but he did speak candidly about how he never tip-toes into new relationships.

"If I'm into you, I'm really into you," Davidson told The Breakfast Club hosts.

Insider asked Rachel Sussman, a relationship expert based in New York City, to go through Davidson's three main tips. Overall, Sussman said, this advice is great, but suggested fans should be delicate about the ways they apply it to their own dynamics.

1. How to be honest about your flaws early in the relationship

"Off the top, I'm like, 'Hey, I'm nuts. Here's all my issues. Here's what I do. Here's the therapists. This is what happens.' And that can either be a lot for someoneor they could be like, 'Cool, that was really refreshingly honest,'" Davidson said.

The "best version" of yourself will fade anyway, Davidson said.

Sussman said she couldn't agree more: too many people hide parts of themselves early on in a relationship.

"The first couple of months you're dating someone, you're dating their ambassador, which means that people often aren't authentic upfront," Sussman told Insider.

Sussman said being honest early in the relationship is a quick way to determine if a person is OK with everything about you, but cautioned that it's a delicate dance. While she thinks being upfront about seeing a therapist, for example, can lead to a good conversation, she also said not to overshare.

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Sussman also cautioned against bad-mouthing an ex-partner, if that is an issue you want to share.

2. Communication is key

Davidson doesn't think that you should wait to text someone.

"It should just be like, 'Hey, there's something wrong today.' 'Hey, I'm really happy today,'" Davidson said.

Sussman loved this point. Communication is vital to a relationship.

"It's how we get to know the other person, it's how we share things, it's how we create intimacy," Sussman said.

3. If your partner is busy, it's OK to give them space

"If you trust and love the person, they're doing their thing, whatever, I think as long as you guys keep in touch or can understand each other, I think you'll be fine. That would be my advice," Davidson said.

Sussman approved of Davidson's advice and said the best relationships strike the balance of not being overly independent or not being overly dependent.

Spending time away from your partner is how you build and define yourself, Sussman said.

"And then when you get together with your boyfriend or girlfriend you even have more to talk about."

Read the original article on Insider
Police in Albuquerque said they arrested the "primary suspect" in the killings of four Muslim men in New Mexico's largest city  deaths that raised fears in the community and led to increased security at mosques and schools.

Muhammad Syed, 51, of Albuquerque, was charged in two of the killings and was called a suspect by police in the two other slayings.

Chief Harold Medina said Tuesday the arrest happened after authorities tracked down a vehicle linked to one of the killings.

Authorities sought help Monday searching for a vehicle that appeared to be the one discovered Tuesday. Police said in a news release they suspected the vehicle was used in the homicides.

The common elements in the deaths were the victims race and religion, officials said, and authorities discovered a possible link between the killings. Authorities released photos, hoping people could help identify the car, and offered a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Mohammad Ahmadi, 62, from Afghanistan, was the first victim, killed Nov. 7. Aftab Hussein, 41, and Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, were killed July 26 and Aug. 1, and Naeem Hussain, 25, was shot to death Friday, according to investigators. The last three victims were from Pakistan.

Syed faces murder charges in the deaths of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain and Aftab Hussein. According to Deputy Commander Kyle Hartsock, Syed is suspected of "involvement" in the two other deaths.

Hartsock said firearms found in Syed's home and car through search warrants were matched to bullet casings at two crime scenes.

'Interpersonal conflict' may be involved

Syed had a "possible personal relationship" with the first victim who was killed in November, Mohammad Ahmadi, Hartsock said. Syed has not been charged in connection with Ahmadi's death, but remains a primary suspect, Hartsock said.

"Detectives discovered evidence that shows the offender knew the victims to some extent and an interpersonal conflict may have led to the shootings," Albuquerque police said in a release.

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Hartsock said police were still investigating the details of any potential connections between the suspect and the four victims.

Originally from Afghanistan, Syed has been living in the U.S. for the last several years, Hartsock said. He had "a few minor misdemeanor arrests," including for domestic violence, Hartsock said.

Albuquerque's Muslim community was in fear

Muhammad Imtiaz Hussain, brother of one of the victims, Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, said he felt relieved about the arrest but needed to know more about the suspect and the motive.

This gives us hope that we will have (the) truth come out, he said. We need to know why.

Albuquerque authorities had bolstered security measures as worries mounted within the Muslim community over the ambush-style killings, the most recent happening Friday.

Khalid Emshadi, a Republican candidate for New Mexicos House of Representatives, had campaign events planned for Friday  but he said fear of a possible serial killer targeting Muslims in Albuquerque could keep him home.

I'm thinking to cancel them, said Emshadi, 44, a Muslim who emigrated with his wife from Libya to the USA in 2008. Hes lived in New Mexicos most populous city for more than a year.

Cecily Barker, deputy chief of investigations with the Albuquerque Police Department, displays a flyer Aug. 7 with photos of a car that may have been used in connection with the murders of Muslim men in New Mexico.

Emshadi said the killings made him and fellow Muslims nervous to practice their Islamic rituals at mosques. We think something bad is going to happen if we just start praying, (like) a crazy person comes inside and shoots us, he said.

QUESTIONS ABOUT MAR-A-LAGO SEARCH? Here's how warrants, subpoenas and grand juries work

ALBUQUERQUE MURDERS: Authorities probe possible link among killings of 4 Muslim men

Samia Assed, an Albuquerque-based Muslim community activist and organizer, said she knew the third victim, Muhammad Afzaal Hussain. Her fellow civic engagement worker was due to get married in September, Assed told USA TODAY.

"Muhammad was part of a cricket team, and his whole cricket team left town the next day (after he was killed), Assed said.

These are young men who come to America for the peace of mind of just living a life and not having to worry about the issues that they left back home, she said. Nobody wants to face this kind of fear.

Altaf Hussein cries over the grave of his brother Aftab at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, N.M., on Aug. 5. A funeral service was held for Aftab Hussein, 41, and Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, at the Islamic Center of New Mexico. Both men were fatally shot near their homes six days apart.

DROWNING INVESTIGATION: Body of Arkansas judge found at bottom of lake after disappearing from family trip

City officials, along with state and local law enforcement, heightened security efforts as authorities investigated.

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller said police was protecting mosques during prayer times. The city organized home food deliveries and access to trauma services through the Albuquerque Community Safety Department for those who need them.

An imam leads afternoon prayer at the Islamic Center of New Mexico in Albuquerque on Aug. 7.

We are outraged by these attacks and will not relent in our pursuit of justice for those we have lost, Keller said in a statement.

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said additional state police would patrol Albuquerque.

Police ramped up their presence near Muslim-affiliated schools and worked with the University of New Mexicos police department in preparation for the fall semester. Albuquerque Public Schools worked with the city on addressing student safety, Keller said, noting the school year starts Wednesday for most.

FATAL COLLISION: Grandfather and 2 grandkids among 4 dead in Texas golf cart crash

Police provided the Islamic Center of New Mexico with extra security in addition to the mosques own, Assed said.

This is foreign to the community of about 4,000 Muslims in Albuquerque, she said. It was a big surprise to have it in sequence this way within the Muslim community.

The authorities have been amazing, they really stepped up, said Assed, who organized a community prayer Tuesday night in memory of the four shooting victims.

Contributing: The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Suspect arrested in Albuquerque, New Mexico, killings of Muslim men
EVANSVILLE  Dozens of pages of police records portray Evansville school board member Amy Word as an associate of accused drug dealers and one alleged "main supplier," all of whom police say used and sold drugs  including fentanyl-laced cocaine  from her restaurant with her knowledge.

"(Five confidential informants) all state that Ms. Word knows about the distribution and use of controlled substances within the (Lamasco Bar & Grill) and parking lot and also partakes in those activities on a regular basis," an affidavit of probable cause filed in Vanderburgh County Superior Court states.

More:Amid police probe, beverage board renews liquor licenses for Lamasco, Amy's on Franklin

Word, the owner and manager of Lamasco and Amy's on Franklin, has pleaded not guilty to one count of maintaining a common nuisance  controlled substances, a Level 6 felony. Prosecutors have not charged Word with any offense related to the possession of controlled substances.

Detectives say their months-long investigation found that drug and alcohol use at Franklin Street establishments were contributing factors in multiple shootings, including one that occurred in the Lamasco parking lot in 2021.

Publicly, Word has sought to distance herself and Lamasco from the drug use and dealing that police allege they observed there regularly over a period of months.

Other than ONE Lamasco employee, who was arrested for possession, NONE of the 22 people involved with the broader investigation were or ever have been employees of Lamasco Bar and Grill, Word wrote in a Facebook post following her arrest.

Things have changed since that initial post, which was removed from Word's Facebook page later in the week.

The Courier & Press sent Word's attorney a message seeking comment for this article.

Paycheck Protection Program:What local businesses received emergency pandemic loans?

To date, at least four current and former Lamasco employees  including Word  have been arrested as a result of the probe, including two who face dealing charges. Detectives say they conducted controlled buys from inside and outside the bar. Sportsman's Grille & Billiards and Franklin Street Tavern are also mentioned in police records as being targets of the investigation.

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Police arrested 39-year-old Christopher Palmer, a former Lamasco employee, Wednesday night. He has since been charged with dealing a controlled substance, in addition to other charges. According to a police affidavit, Palmer told detectives he eventually quit working at Lamasco due to the high level of drug use there.

Police have also arrested 33-year-old Bryan Scott Biggs, who claimed he delivers cocaine to Lamasco Bar & Grill, where he also worked. Biggs reportedly told police he acts as a middle man, buying a 1/2 to 1 gram for $50-$100 at a time and delivers it to people while he is working at Lamasco, an affidavit states.

More:EVSC board approves leave of absence for Amy Word following July 30 arrest

According to jail logs, court records and sworn affidavits, detectives cultivated at least five confidential sources over a span of months who reportedly collected information about drug activity at Lamasco and other Franklin Street bars.

Police say cell phone records and other information shows Word communicating with the man accused of being the main supplier of drugs at Lamasco: 35-year-old Demario Holman. He has been charged with dealing cocaine, dealing fentanyl, dealing marijuana and neglect of a dependent. He has pleaded not guilty.

Detectives allegedly recovered more than a pound of cocaine that also tested positive for fentanyl from Holmans home and vehicle, as well as four handguns, a semi-automatic rifle, oxycodone pills, methamphetamine pills, and other drugs.

The Evansville Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force wrote in a sworn affidavit that detectives also "developed information" that Word and Holman communicate "in person or via an encrypted phone application."

One informant allegedly told detectives they were invited to a party at Word's home attended by Holman and another man confidential sources named as one of "the main five people distributing cocaine at Lamasco and Sportsman's," according to a sworn affidavit. The informant told police when they arrived at the party, Word, Holman and that man "were already inside and using cocaine."

The sworn affidavit filed against Word also cites multiple confidential sources who told police Word's behavior had grown increasingly "short tempered, aggressive, and careless, causing many employees to save the photographs and videos that showed her erratic behavior and using cocaine in case she turned her anger on them."

Two confidential informants told police one of the videos shows the school board member "with her face in a pile of cocaine in the upstairs apartment of Lamasco Bar," according to the affidavit.

Police interested in Lamasco since at least 2019

Police records stemming from nine separate criminal cases paint a picture of why authorities claim the school board member had knowledge of the sale and use of drugs and contributed to violence on Franklin Street.

Detectives said they received tips that an unnamed Lamasco employee "frequently sold heroin, marijuana, cocaine and pills at both Sportsman's Grille & Billiards and Lamasco Bar & Grill," since at least 2019, a probable cause affidavit states. In late 2021, police seized more than 30 grams of cocaine from an individual who allegedly told detectives "he bought it from a male just outside of the back door of Lamasco."

A 2021 shooting also put the establishment on police radar.

In August of that year, police arrested Erik Washington and accused him of shooting a man in the Lamasco parking lot. He was sentenced to serve five years in prison in connection with the shooting. A separate affidavit of probable cause lists Washington as one of five main cocaine distributors at Lamasco and Sportsman's.

Another person listed in police records as a dealer who frequented Lamasco is Jourdan Dabbs, who was arrested on Evansville's West Side in March and charged with dealing cocaine and marijuana.

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Detectives allegedly seized 19 grams of cocaine from Dabbs that "credible and reliable sources" confirmed was purchased from Holman, who eventually became the focus of the investigation on Franklin Street, according to police.

In the case against Word, detectives mention listening to a jail phone call that was allegedly between Dabbs and the school board member that occurred following his March arrest.

"Dabbs mentions he knew about a safe and told Ms. Word to get rid of whatever is in the safe," a sworn affidavit states. "Ms. Word becomes angry and starts yelling and swearing and made the statement that the only thing in the safe was her money and someone's 'dope.'"

Previously, Word denied that the safe referenced in a police affidavit was located on Lamasco property. Her public statement about the arrest appeared to have been deleted from her public Facebook profile as of Friday.

Word has agreed to take a leave of absence from the Evansville school board, but Evansville Vanderburgh School Board president Chris Kiefer said she did not accept his request for her to resign, citing advice from her legal counsel.

Lamasco Bar & Grill has been under Word's ownership since 2009, according to the Indiana Secretary of State's office. In 2019, she opened Amy's on Franklin, 1418 W. Franklin St., a higher-end bar and restaurant.

Word was elected to the EVSC School Board in 2020, winning one of the two seats for District 3 by nearly 5,000 votes. Kiefer said the school board will consider her request to take a leave of absence at its next meeting on Monday.

Word was released from the Vanderburgh County jail on a $500 bond shortly after her arrest. At her initial court appearance Wednesday, Vanderburgh County Superior Court Judge Wayne Trockman instructed Word to immediately report to the probation office to begin a monitoring program.

Staff writer Thomas B. Langhorne contributed to this report.

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This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Police: Probe links Word to multiple accused drug dealers
Voter in Wisconsin. Scott Olson/Getty Images

Primary season continues on Tuesday, as voters in Wisconsin, Vermont, Minnesota, and Connectict head to the polls to decide their party's candidate for the general election in November.

In Wisconsin, watch for another gubernatorial proxy battle between former President Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence, who are betting on Republican candidates Tim Michels and Rebecca Kleefisch, respectively. And in the Senate, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes (D) will likely win the nomination to take on Republican Sen. Ron Johnson, "who faces no serious challenger in the primary," in November, per ABC News.

Over in Vermont, Democratic Rep. Peter Welch is aiming to replace retiring Sen. Patrick Leahy in the Senate, meaning Welch's House seat is up for grabs. Lt. Gov. Molly Gray and state Senate President Pro Tempore Becca Balint are the leading Democratic candidates in the scramble for the spot; the winner of the contest is expected to prevail against the Republican candidate in November, per The Associated Press. Looks like Vermont is finally on the cusp of losing its status as the only state never represented in Congress by a woman.

Meanwhile, in Minnesota, incumbent and progressive "Squad" member Rep. Ilhan Omar (D) is fending off what ABC News describes as a "formidable primary challenger" in her bid for re-election. Voters will also determine whether they want to send "either Republican Brad Finstad or Democrat Jeff Ettinger to Washington to finish out late U.S. Rep. Jim Hagedorn's term," Axios writes.

And finally, in Connecticut, we'll see who Republicans pick to presumably take on Democratic incumbent Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who's expected to win the nomination, reports The New York Times.

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(This content was produced in Russia, where the law restricts coverage of Russian military operations in Ukraine.)

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia's Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad is bumping up against quotas imposed by the European Union for sanctioned goods that it can import across Lithuania from mainland Russia or Belarus, the region's governor said on Tuesday.

Lithuania infuriated Moscow in June by banning the land transit of goods such as concrete and steel to Kaliningrad after EU sanctions on them came into force.

As part of a deal reached in July, the EU imposed limits on the volume of such goods crossing by land between Kaliningrad and mainland Russia or Belarus, based on average volumes over the last three years, to prevent Kaliningrad being used to dodge sanctions.

Kaliningrad governor Anton Alikhanov estimated that the limits permit Russia to ship around 500,000 tonnes of sanctioned goods in total in both directions each year. But he said some quotas had already been reached, making it impossible, for instance, for Kaliningrad to import cement from Belarus - which used to account for around 200,000 tonnes a year.

Moscow says trade with its outlying territory should not be subject to limits.

"Today, we have already exhausted the limits set by Europeans for the transportation of goods by rail: for instance, certain kinds of iron, steel, oil products, fertilisers, antifreeze and timber," Russian news agencies quoted Alikhanov as saying at a meeting of the Valdai discussion club on Tuesday.

Russia's former ambassador to Lithuania said that, while the transit deal had helped avoid the "worst case scenario", the situation was "far from normal".

Alexey Isakov, expelled by Lithuania in March, was quoted by the Foreign Ministry as saying the quota system was "a gross interference in the internal affairs of our country".

The EU has imposed a barrage of sanctions on Russia and Belarus in response to Moscow's decision to send troops into Ukraine in February, some of them from the territory of Belarus.

Moscow says it had to protect Russian-speakers and defuse a military threat to its own security - allegations that Kyiv and the West dismiss as baseless pretexts for a war of acquisition.

(Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Kevin Liffey)
Supporters of Donald Trump flocked to his Palm Beach, Florida, resort to protest the FBIs raid of his property earlier in the day after news of the investigation broke on Monday evening.

Videos and photos on Twitter showed supporters arriving at the resort and new home of the former president while tweets from his fans vowed that thousands were planning to show up.

Dozens of people were on scene before midnight Monday, though the mood could hardly be described as angry. Loudspeakers blared dance music as supporters arrived by car on the pitch-black scene where lights were hastily being set up.

Some supporters may have heard the ex-president address his situation in a tele-rally for Sarah Palin, which he attended despite the news.

"Another day in paradise. This was a strange day," a chuckling Mr Trump reportedly told his fans.

His supporters who arrived on-scene late on Monday were unlikely to hear directly from their leader, but that didnt stop the crowd from growing as midnight approached.

This is the scene near Mar-A-Lago where some Trump supporters have gathered @nbc6 @NBCNewsNow pic.twitter.com/n9jsnKKO1J  Cristian Benavides (@cbenavidesTV) August 9, 2022

The crowd near Mar-A-Lago continues to grow into the night following that search warrant earlier today @nbc6 @NBCNewsNow pic.twitter.com/FQqppzeXYQ  Cristian Benavides (@cbenavidesTV) August 9, 2022

Some of those at the protest told reporters that the investigation appeared political to them because the FBI had yet to take action against Hunter Biden, the son of president Joe Biden, for criminal activities that Trump supporters have long alleged he engaged in overseas.

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The Justice Department has yet to comment publicly on the unprecedented raid of a former presidents residence. Former President Donald Trump is thought to be under a grand jury investigation headed by the agency in response to the January 6 attack on Congress; the probe recently took testimony from Marc Short, a top aide to ex-Vice President Mike Pence.

But The New York Times reported that the raid may have been related to a separate (though not wholly unrelated) issue of whether Mr Trump improperly took classified materials with him after he left the White House in January 2021 and returned to his Florida home.

Some of those close to Mr Trump told The Times that the president was in possession of many pages of classified materials, which could mean that the president or members of his team could be held criminaly liable for their removal.

The president was reported earlier this year to have delayed returning more than a dozen boxes of such materials to the National Archive until the threat of legal action was raised. Its unclear if more boxes or materials were seized on Monday.

Supporters of the ex-president who rallied outside of Mar-a-Lago were joined in spirit by Republican members of Congress, who tweeted their vocal disapproval after the news broke and even, in the case of House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, vowed to launch congressional investigations of the Justice Department in response.

The date of Mondays raid has some historical significance: It is the anniversary of the resignation of Richard Nixon, the only president to ever leave office under such conditions, as he faced impeachment over his involvement in a break-in of the Democratic Partys headquarters.
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli President Isaac Herzog spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday about Russia's attempt to ban the world's biggest Jewish non-profit group, which helps Jews move to Israel.

Russia's justice ministry is seeking to liquidate the Russian branch of the Jewish Agency for alleged breaches of privacy laws.

Some Israeli politicians have expressed concern that Russia may be retaliating for Israel's criticism of its invasion of Ukraine, and about the effect that bilateral tensions might have on Russia's own Jewish community.

Some also worry that it could damage Russian-Israeli communications on Syria, where Moscow deploys air power in support of the government and Israel has attacked what it describes as Iranian-linked military targets.

"The phone call was frank and honest. The two presidents emphasised the important areas of cooperation between Israel and Russia and agreed to remain in contact," Herzog's statement said.

The Kremlin said the men had agreed that contacts about the Jewish Agency would be continued by both countries.

Some 600,000 Russians are eligible to emigrate to Israel because of Jewish heritage, and officials say there has been a rise in applications since the dispute arose.

Herzog, whose post is largely symbolic, said the call with Putin had been coordinated with Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, who has condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

(Reporting by Maayan Lubell; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Peter Graff)
Forest fires have grown overnight in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador as government officials called a state of emergency.

The Paradise Lake fire, near the town of Grand Falls-Windsor, has grown by more than 50 per cent from 16,344 to 25,543 acres, fire officials said. The fire is equivalent in size to Floridas Disneyworld.

The fire has been too erratic for crews to fight directly so instead the blaze was being attacked by water-bombing planes. It is hoped that rain forecast for Tuesday will assist firefighting efforts.

A second fire is burning near the Bay dEspoir Highway, an isolated stretch of road through the middle of the province. It has increased in size by 10 per cent to 14,151 acres.

Big wildfires are uncommon in the eastern Canada province. The sparsely-populated region has varied climates and weather in part due to its position in the Atlantic Ocean. Northern Labrador, for example, is polar tundra while southern Labrador has a subarctic climate. However, like many parts of the world this summer, dry conditions and high temperatures have made made forested areas more prone to fire.

Public officials in the province declared a state of emergency over the weekend for Botwood, a town in north-central Newfoundland, according to a statement from John Hogan, Minister of Justice and Public Safety.

The declaration was made out of precaution due to a deterioration in air quality in the area, although there was no immediate fire hazard to homes or residents.

As fire and smoky conditions continue, residents were being encouraged to see a health care provider if they experienced new or concerning symptoms related to heat or smoke.

The province also issued an immediate ban on setting fires on forestland or within 300metres of forestland. This included unauthorized burning, including campfires and brush burning.

Ministers from the province are set to hold a news conference on the emergency situation on Tuesday afternoon.
Wedding cake Illustrated | Gettyimages

First, the Supreme Court eliminated the federal right to an abortion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. Then, Clarence Thomas signaled that, if he had his way, the rights to contraception, same-sex relations, and gay marriage  established in Griswold v. Connecticut (1965), Lawrence v. Texas (2003), and Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), respectively  could be next on the chopping block.

But that's not all. Now, Media Matters warns in a new report that American conservatives could be setting their sites on no-fault divorce, which allows spouses to dissolve their marriage without proving wrongdoing by either party. Here's everything you need to know:

What is the history of no-fault divorce?

For most of American history, it was very difficult to get divorced. Before the Civil War, Alabama couples looking to dissolve their marriage would need to take their case to the state legislature and obtain a two-thirds majority in both houses.

Gov. Ronald Reagan of California, himself a divorce, signed the country's first no-fault divorce law in 1969. Before that, spouses seeking divorce generally had to prove adultery, abandonment, or cruelty, often resorting to perjury in order to obtain a divorce.

One by one, the other states followed California's lead, with New York becoming the last state to adopt a no-fault divorce law in 2010.

Traditionalist conservatives argue that no-fault divorce has crushed the American family. In a 2021 op-ed for The Hill, Joseph Chamie noted that married couples now make up a minority of American households and that the proportion of children born to unwed mothers has doubled since 1980.

Others claim that no-fault divorce has been a net positive, especially for women. According to the National Bureau of Economic Research, "there was a large decline"  usually around 20 percent  "in the number of women committing suicide following the introduction of unilateral divorce." Rates of domestic violence also dropped.

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What are American right-wingers saying about no-fault divorce?

Plenty.

Media Matters collected statements from several right-wing figures who have been critical of no-fault divorce. Those featured included Daily Wire hosts Matt Walsh and Michael Knowles and YouTubers Tim Pool and Steven Crowder. Pool suggested that the policy discourages men from getting married, while Crowder denounced no-fault divorce as a system under which "if a woman cheats on you, she leaves, she takes half."

But, as Nate Hochman observed in National Review, all this talk hasn't translated to much action. "Which Republican is campaigning on repealing no-fault divorce?" he asked, describing the policy as "a tragic mistake, from the social-conservative perspective."

The closest we've gotten to a nationally prominent Republican speaking out against no-fault divorce is Ohio Senate candidate J.D. Vance. Last September, Vance told a group of high school students that allowing people "to shift spouses like they change their underwear" was bad for children and appeared to suggest that even "violent" marriages should be saved. Vice News, which first reported on the comments, asked Vance why he believed "it would be better for children if their parents stayed in violent marriages than if they divorced" and whether he supported a federal law making divorces more difficult to obtain.

Vance, whose 2016 memoir Hillbilly Elegy described the abuse he endured at the hands of his repeat-divorcee mother and her romantic partners, refused to answer Vice's questions and instead issued a blistering response. "In my life, I have seen siblings, wives, daughters, and myself abused by men. It's disgusting for you to argue that I was defending those men," he said in a statement. He also argued that no-fault divorce did not deliver on its promise, since "domestic violence has skyrocketed in recent years, and is much higher among non-married couples."

Is no-fault divorce actually in any danger?

Not from the Supreme Court.

Attempts to link the Dobbs decision, Clarence Thomas' dissent, and no-fault divorce are somewhat misleading. The Supreme Court has never recognized a constitutional right to easy divorce. According to the National Constitution Center, "Nothing in Obergefell"  or in Loving  "defeats the continuing power of states to decide what benefits go with marriage, and to decide who can marry  so long as a state does not discriminate against people that the Constitution makes equal." This means that Obergefell also "left entirely intact the power of states to write and enforce laws governing divorce  that is, when marriages may be ended."

Every state in the union is still theoretically free to ban no-fault divorce whenever it wants; it's as easy as pushing a bill through the state legislature and getting the governor to sign it. Congress could also pass federal legislation imposing strict limits on divorce, though that's significantly less likely to happen.

What's happening in Texas?

The official 2022 platform of the Republican Party of Texas calls on the legislature to "rescind unilateral no-fault divorce laws and support covenant marriage."

What is a covenant marriage? It's a separate kind of marriage contract that exists only in Louisiana, Arizona, and Arkansas. A Louisiana fact sheet explains that the state's covenant marriage law, which was passed in 1997, "describes a covenant marriage as a marriage entered into by one male and one female who understand and agree that the marriage between them is a lifelong relationship." (The "one male and one female" bit was struck down by Obergefell, but the rest of the law remains in effect).

Parties to a covenant marriage must undergo pre-marital counseling (religious or secular); commit to "make all reasonable efforts to preserve their marriage, including marital counseling;" and agree to tighter restrictions on divorce. In Louisiana, covenant marriage divorce is allowed only in cases where one spouse has committed adultery, been convicted of a felony, physically or sexually abused the other spouse or their children, or been separated for two years (or between one year and 18 months following a legal separation).

Covenant marriage isn't particularly popular. Between 2000 and 2010, only about 1 percent of Louisiana couples chose that option. But if the Texas GOP has its way, covenant marriage could become the only option.

Of course, one should take the Texas Republican platform with a grain of salt. This is, after all, the same platform that calls for a secession referendum. Writing for The Week, David Faris described the document as "an expression of ideals that aren't binding on anyone, including the state legislature."

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A bitterly polarised reaction to an FBI search of Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago home on Monday threatened to enflame Americas political divisions.

The former president said agents raided his Florida resort and broke into his safe, a stunning turn of events apparently linked to a justice department investigation of his removal of official presidential records.

For Democrats and other Trump critics, it was a long-overdue step towards justice and proof that no one  even a former president  is legally untouchable.

Congressman Eric Swalwell tweeted: We are witnessing the difference between an honest system and a corrupt one. In 2020 Donald Trump brought us dangerously close to a permanently corrupt America. The rule of law is taking shape. And accountability is coming.

Related: What is Mar-a-Lago? Trumps winter White House at the centre of FBI investigation

Ted Lieu, another Democrat in the House of Representatives, posted on Twitter: No one is above the law.

And the Lincoln Project, an anti-Trump group, said in a statement: Never before has a former Presidents home been raided in a criminal probe. While this search warrant is seemingly for the mishandling of classified material, it is a serious crime that must be fully investigated.

Todays raid is the first step for law enforcement, or Congress, of holding Donald Trump accountable for the orchestration of a conspiracy to remain in power that resulted in the January 6th attack on our nations capital.

But Republicans responded furiously to the development, following Trumps lead in claiming that the search showed the justice department waging a politically motivated witch-hunt. Their florid rhetoric will do little to assuage fears that a prosecution of Trump could lead to social unrest and even political violence.

Ronna McDaniel, chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, said: Absolute power corrupts absolutely. Countless times we have examples of Democrats flouting the law and abusing power with no recourse.

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Democrats continually weaponize the bureaucracy against Republicans. This raid is outrageous. This abuse of power must stop and the only way to do that is to elect Republicans in November.

Kevin McCarthy, the Republican minority leader in the House, claimed in a statement that the justice department had reached an intolerable state of weaponized politicization and vowed that, when Republicans take back the House, they will conduct immediate oversight of the department.

He said ominously: Attorney General Garland: preserve your documents and clear your calendar.

Lindsey Graham, a US senator for South Carolina and Trump ally, noted that midterm elections are about a hundred days away and Trump is likely to run for president again in 2024. Time will tell regarding this most recent investigation. However, launching such an investigation of a former President this close to an election is beyond problematic.

Bob Good, a Republican congressman, wrote on Twitter: The continued weaponization of the federal government against its citizens and political opponents continues under the Biden/Garland march toward a police state.

Congressman Ronny Jackson added: Tonight the FBI officially became the enemy of the people!!!

Kristi Noem, the governor of South Dakota, denounced the search as un-American, while Matt Schlapp, chairman of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC)  which hosted an event in Dallas, Texas, last week with speakers including Trump and the Hungarian prime minister, Viktor Orban  also joined the condemnation.

The Deep State will do anything in its power to slime President Trump, Schlapp said. Americans need to keep growing the big Red Wave and save the country from these corrupt fascists.

Mike Pompeo, a former secretary of state under Trump, tweeted: Executing a warrant against ex-POTUS is dangerous. The apparent political weaponization of DOJ/FBI is shameful. AG must explain why 250 yrs of practice was upended w/ this raid.

Biden has repeatedly stressed his belief that the justice department must work independently of the White House and that he will not interfere in its investigations. Merrick Garland, the attorney general, insisted last week that no one was above the law.

The FBI is directed by Christopher Wray, a Trump appointee.

The Republican response on Monday drew from a familiar playbook: Trump has long maintained that the Russia investigation, for example, was a hoax and part of a deep state conspiracy against him. Scrutiny of his removal of presidential records, or his role in the January 6 insurrection, is likely to produce a similar backlash.

Joe Walsh, a Trump critic and former Republican congressman, tweeted: The Republican Party has abandoned the rule of law. Just listen to them tonight. Theyre at war with the rule of law.

David Axelrod, ex-strategist under Barack Obama, added: This is why Trump is going to run. He wants to portray any criminal probe or prosecution as a plot to prevent him from once again becoming POTUS. Many of his followers will believe it  as they did his lies about the LAST election.
Rep. Jim Jordan, a Republican from Ohio. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

Republicans are reviving a false talking point after the raid on former President Donald Trump's property.

They're saying the same DOJ once called protesting parents "terrorists."

The National School Boards Association made the comparison, not DOJ.

Republicans who are furious with the FBI after the agency's search of former President Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence are reviving a false talking point that pits the Department of Justice against parents.

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin called the raid "stunning" in a tweetand said, "This same DOJ labeled parents in Loudoun County as terrorists."

On Fox News, Rep. Jim Jordan, the House Judiciary Committee's highest-ranking Republican, made a similar claim about Attorney General Merrick Garland.

"Understand the history, here," he said. "One year ago it was Merrick Garland using the Patriot Act against parents."

Since last year, Republicans hoping to use culture wars to boost their chances in the midterm elections have said that the Biden administration and Democrats have branded parents who protest at school board meetings as domestic terrorists.

Here's what happened: In an October 2021 memo, Garland called on the FBI to address illegal threats against school leaders who were facing protests over face mask mandates, controversial books, and the teaching of race and gender in schools.

His memo came after the National School Boards Association  in a letter the group later apologized for  asked the feds to step in.

The NSBA  not the Department of Justice  compared the threats to "a form of domestic terrorism and hate crimes."

Read the original article on Business Insider
A Rhode Island man pleaded guilty to trafficking five women for prostitution in Massachusetts and six other states.

Federal prosecutors say 48-year-old Ronald Hall, of Woonsocket, used force, threats and coercion to traffic the women between Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Florida and Nevada. He targeted women with a substance use disorder and used their drug addictions to coerce them into engaging in prostitution, according to the U.S. Attorneys office.

Hall operated from 2010-2019, regularly scheduling the women to engage in prostitution, sometimes as frequently as multiple times per day, every day of the week, federal prosecutors say. He subjected them to starvation, regular threats of injury, physical abuse, forced intercourse, violent assaults with weapons including knives, belts and bats, and forced some of them to get a tattoo of his nickname.

The trauma inflicted upon victims of sex trafficking is beyond measure. For nearly a decade, Mr. Hall used violence and threats to target and exploit five separate victims across seven different states, U.S. Attorney Rachael Rollins said in a statement. This man targeted vulnerable women with substance use disorders and essentially enslaved them. The behavior he engaged in was unconscionable. Although nothing will ever erase the profound, long-lasting hurt and pain these women have suffered at the hands of Mr. Hall, todays conviction hopefully brings some long-awaited justice and accountability.

Hall pleaded guilty to five counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion and one count of transportation of an individual with intent to engage in prostitution. He faces a minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison for each count of sex trafficking.

Hall is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 3.

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Kevin Harvick hands the checkered flag to his daughter Piper, 4, after winning the Firekeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway.

CAMBRIDGE TWP.  Sixty-three miles from Fords headquarters in Dearborn, theres a sign perched over the gate to the garages at Michigan International Speedway. In white block letters with a blue backdrop, it practically screams over the infield:

Manufacturer bragging right starts here!

Or, at least in Sundays case, they continue. Kevin Harvicks Firekeepers Casino 400 victory on Sunday by the numbers: 59th career NASCAR Cup Series win, good for tenth all-time. Sixth time winning a Cup Series event at MIS, with four coming in the last five years.

Most compelling? Harvick breaking his 65-race winless streak to keep an eight-race win streak right in Fords backyard alive. Contrasts working hand in hand like that arent common in any aspect of racing.

But sometimes, things just come together.

We didnt have anything work against us, Harvick said. Thats the biggest thing that happened today.

Mark Rushbrook, Fords director of motorsports performance, wasnt exactly bragging on the dais on Sunday night, but a slight smile betrayed how it felt to stay up top with a heightened sense of attention.

Weve spent a lot of time with the teams this week leading up to this weekend to let them know how important it is, he said, and to ask our four teams to work together, whether its the drivers (or) the crew chiefs.

To be clear, it hasnt quite been a dream season for Ford, with only four total wins compared to Chevrolet's 13 and Toyota's five. Nor did it look like it was going to get much better Saturday.

With pole-winner Bubba Wallace leading the pack, Toyota placed all six of its' drivers in the top 11 of the qualifying round as Ford landed only two in (Joey Logano and Austin Cindric) in the top ten.

Nobody was panicking on pit road  but this was Ford at MIS. The Heritage Trophy only adds to the regular desire to win.

There was a lot of pressure on this weekend to come here, to have a strong performance, to get a win, Rushbrook said.

Story continues

After Logano trailed Wallace in the top five early, a slew of different Toyota drivers took the lead and put together strong laps with Fords lagging behind. Christopher Bell won Stage 1 and Denny Hamlin won Stage 2, all points for Toyota drivers through 80 laps.

But slowly, even inexplicably, Toyota began to collapse. Kyle Busch was no longer a factor after wrecking in Stage 1. Ty Gibbs, racing in place of Kurt Busch, got a speeding penalty on pit road and fell back for good.

Martin Truex Jr. got caught arguing with his crew chief and struggled to make up ground. Hamlin picked up a penalty of his own for too many men over the wall at his pit station.

And out of the final restart, there was the No. 4 Ford and Harvick in front with 38 laps to go. Crew chief Rodney Childress said it was a welcome affirmation to everything they had seen leading into the final stage.

Every time we would kind of get a clear lap, we were just as fast as the leader, he said. We knew that maybe if we could ever get there, we would be OK.

Wallace wasnt going to be denied, however. Harvick held a car length on him in the restart and said he knew he had a shot to stay in front if they made it out Turn 2 with the lead.

Which he did, eventually pitting Wallace behind Logano in second. Wallace managed to maneuver around Logano with 17 laps to go, but Harvick held a four-plus second lead with little chance of anybody cutting into it.

Kevin Harvick crosses the finish line at the Firekeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway on Sunday.

The more they raced, the further we got away, he said.

And when it was all said and done, Harvick cruised through clean air to finish first of three Fords in the top five, flipping the script on Toyota's hopes following the qualifying round.

Wallace, in second, knelt at the side of his car and stewed in disappointment after. Hamlin, the third place finisher, mulled over his frustration as Harvick celebrated on victory lane.

Things didnt break our way, Hamlin said.

Harvick is 46. For his part, he spoke about his win with the measured temperament of middle age, spending much of his time on the dais whispering to his four-year-old, Piper, as she tugged at his fire suit in between questions.

He also acknowledged the reality that the biggest moment of his career happened 21 years ago. Sunday doesnt change that.

Theres really no match for jumping in the racecar and taking over for Dale Earnhardt (after his death in 2001), he said. Theres nothing like (how) that was for the six or eight weeks. You just cant match it. Never will, never come close.

As he said, its all been easy since. Nobody who goes through that loses sleep over losing or puts the pressure on themselves to continue winning streaks.

Its really not that hard, Harvick said. You just compartmentalize it and you set it aside. We try to act like grown-ups and show up to work every morning.

Everything needed to go right for Ford to keep its' run alive. Everything needed to go right for Harvick to get back in the win column.

It did. Harvick didnt shy away from that -- bragging rights aside.

We rolled triple sevens today, he said.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: "We rolled triple sevens": Harvick keeps Ford's MIS win streak alive
People are side-eying Rubi Rose after she shared that she personally sees no issue with non-Black people saying the N-word.

The Whole Lotta Liquor artist, who was notably included in XXLs 2021 Freshman Class, made the revelation while appearing on Twitch streamer Adin Rosss channel last month in a video called E DATE WITH RUBI ROSE SPONSORED BY STAKE, though the subject only recently began making headlines.

About 2-and-a-half hours into the video, Rubi Rose shared that she was uncertain about Rosss race, explaining that she viewed the white host as racially ambiguous.

For some reason, I kind of thought that you were Indian or, like, or Middle Eastern or something, I dont know, she admitted, later saying hes giving light-skinned.

After Ross and other people on the stream began expressing their shock over Rubi Roses comment, she doubled down on this sentiment by asking the Twitch streamer, Isnt your hair curly?

The baffled host then proceeded to jokingly ask if he could say the N-word, which others on the stream promptly shut down.

However, Rubi Rose shared that she had a bit of a different stance on the subject.

Im personally OK with anybody saying it, as long as their intent isnt to be rude, she said. Cause Im sure you have a lot of Black people on your channel, you like Black music probably, so, as long as the person isnt saying it with malicious intent, personally  cause I have Mexican homegirls and white homegirls who be saying it  I dont care about other people.

Despite Rubi Roses comment, another person on the stream chimed in to say, The congregation has to clear the N-word pass, acknowledging that the artists stance is definitely not shared by most Black people.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Neighborhood Talk (@theneighborhoodtalk)

This isnt the only recent instance of the N-word conversation coming up.

As Blavity previously reported, video of Roddy Ricchs performance at Londons Wireless Festival last month showed a predominantly white crowd singing The Box word-for-word, and Twitter  seemingly not sharing the same sentiment as Rubi Rose  was quick to denounce this behavior.

What do you think about Rubi Roses revelation?
(Reuters) - Russia continued to focus on reinforcing its defences in southern Ukraine over the weekend, while also maintaining attacks on Kyiv's positions in the Donetsk region in the east, Britain said on Monday.

Bakhmut has been Moscow's most successful axis in eastern Ukraine's Donbas over the last 30 days, although, Russia has only managed to advance about 10 km (6 miles) in the region, the British defence ministry said in a regular intelligence update.

"In other Donbas sectors where Russia was attempting to break through, its forces have not gained more than 3 km during this 30 day period; almost certainly significantly less than planned," the update said.

(Reporting by Kanjyik Ghosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Tom Hogue)
YEVHEN KIZILOV  TUESDAY, 9 AUGUST 2022, 17:04

The Russian Defence Ministry claims that no one fired at the Saky airfield in Crimea, but that, for some reason, there was a detonation of ammunition.

Source: RIA Novosti on Telegram

Quote: "At about 15:20 on the territory of the Saky airfield near the village of Novofedorivka, several pieces of aircraft ammunition detonated in an enclosed storage area.

Measures are being taken to extinguish the fire and find out the causes of the explosion. According to the report from the site, there was no deliberate strike on the enclosed ammunition storage area at the airfield."

Details: The Russian Defence Ministry insists that no one was injured as a result of the explosion and that aviation equipment at the airfield was not damaged.

Well-known Russian propagandist Margarita Simonyan also commented on the situation, writing on Telegram that the explosions at a military airfield in Crimea could be sabotage or even mismanagement

Quote from Simonyan: "On the spot, they believe that it was not a strike, but sabotage, or even someones stupidity."

More details: A little later, the propagandist added that, "in fact," several munitions allegedly detonated in the storage area, that no one was hurt and nothing was destroyed, "there were no strikes" and that in general it is possible to go to the beach safely.

Even later, Russian state agency TASS reported with reference to "a source in the Russian military department" that the main reason for the explosion of ammunition at the Saky airfield was a "violation of fire safety requirements," and that there are no signs of an "intentional impact on the ammunition for the purpose of detonation."

Background:

After noon on 9 August, explosions occurred at a military airfield in Novofedorivka in the Saki district of Crimea. Local residents told Ukrainska Pravda that "the explosions continue to this day, probably hitting warehouses."

On social networks, people write that there have already been more than ten explosions. 20 km from Novofedorivka, "windows tremble and car alarms go off."

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Aeroflot is reportedly stripping parts from some of its Western-made aircraft. Media_works/Shutterstock

Russian airlines have begun stripping aircraft for spares amid a parts shortage, Reuters reported.

State-owned Aeroflot is stripping parts from some Boeing and Airbus jets, a source told Reuters.

Sanctions mean Russian airlines are struggling to buy parts to service Western-built planes.

Russian state-owned airline Aeroflot has begun stripping parts from working aircraft to mitigate a shortage of spares caused by Western sanctions, Reuters reported.

At least one nearly-new Airbus A350 and a Russian-made Sukhoi Superjet 100, as well as a couple Boeing 737s and Airbus A320s, are among the planes being cannibalized, a source told the news agency.

Russian carriers have seen their access to spare parts restricted by Western sanctions introduced in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which is hampering their ability to service their aircraft.

Aeroflot is heavily reliant on Western-made Airbus and Boeing planes but is barred from buying parts on international markets. It's among several airlines that have started stripping spares from working aircraft, Reuters reported, citing four unnamed people close to the matter.

Aeroflot did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Aeroflot's fleet features 59 Boeing planes, including 777s and 737s, and 119 Airbus models, including seven A350s and 64 A320s, according to figures on its website. The airline is currently operating five Sukhoi Superjet 100s and has another 100 on order to 2026.

In June, the Kremlin advised airlines to use parts from their own aircraft to maintain foreign-built jets with the aim of keeping these planes flying until at least 2025.

Reuters analysis of FlightRadar data suggests as many as 50 Aeroflot planes have been grounded since late July.

Analysts have warned that sanctions could soon impact the Russian aviation industry's ability to operate.

In June, Patrick Ky, executive director of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, warned that Russia may have to start cannibalizing jets to keep operating. "This is very unsafe," Ky told Reuters at the time.

Story continues

Under the Russian government's aviation development plan, it hopes to replace its commercial fleet with as many as 1,000 Russian-made aircraft by 2030, Kommersant reported.

In March, Russian President Vladimir Putin changed a law that enabled Russian operators to take control of hundreds of leased aircraft.

Read the original article on Business Insider
IRYNA BALACHUK  TUESDAY, 9 AUGUST 2022, 10:14

To kill the Ukrainian defenders in Olenivka, Donetsk region, the occupiers could have used the "Shmiel" [Bumblebee  ed] rocket-propelled infantry flamethrowers. They quickly burn the oxygen, and a person burns up in a matter of seconds.

Source: acting commander of "Azov" Major Mykyta Nadtochii (call sign "Raz-Dva") in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda

Nadtochiis quote: "I'm more inclined to the fact that simply... the so-called "Bumblebee" was used. It works like that. That is, oxygen is completely burned out in a second, and a person burns in a matter of seconds.

I do not consider any other points that Russia tried to publish in the first days and somehow impose an opinion. This is out of the question. This simply cannot be. It can be seen that, most likely, the "Bumblebees" were used. Just a planned action. This is evidenced by the fact that not a single worker of the colony was injured there. That couldnt have happened, either".

Details: According to Nadtochii, he found out about the tragedy a little earlier than the mass media wrote about it.

The day before that [Thursday, July 28 - ed.] at half past twelve at night, the boys from there called him and informed him that they were "working on them". "Once or twice" he immediately called "certain authorities" who might have known something about this shelling. And they later called back and said that no one opened fire; none of the artillery brigades received coordinate data for practice.

In the morning, according to Nadtochii, the same guys called. They confirmed that there were people killed and wounded in action, but then they themselves began to doubt that these were exactly the artillery strikes.

"That is, most likely, they just heard bangs, an explosion, and then they saw through the windows that something was on fire somewhere. You saw the video - there are buildings nearby, standing, they stand with windows. It doesn't happen like that. The blast wave from a projectile or rocket does not leave windows when the buildings are so close," concluded the acting commander of "Azov" regiment.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda!
The General Staff reported what is happening in the south of Ukraine

Read also: Russian invaders shell Dnipropetrovsk Oblast overnight, says governor

To that end, enemy artillery shelled Ukrainian positions across 14 settlements in the region, the General Staff said.

Read also: Russian hypersonic missiles strike targets in Vinnytsia Oblast

Bila Krynytsia, Andriivka, Oskorivka, and Olhine were targeted by Russian air strikes.

At least two Russian ships, carrying Kalibr cruise missiles, remain on station in the Black Sea.

Read also: Ukrainian defenders destroy three Russian bases in south Ukraine

Ukrainian air defenses reported that they had shot down four Russian cruise missiles fired from Russian submarines in the Black Sea.

None of the missiles hit their targets, but two people were injured and housing was damaged when debris from one of the missiles fell to the ground over Uman, a city in Cherkassy Oblast in central Ukraine.

Help NV continue reporting on the Russian invasion



Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
A woman who claims ex-Manchester United footballer Ryan Giggs controlled her thought he was her soul mate but saw early red flags, a court has heard.

PR executive Kate Greville, 36, told detectives it was almost like was he was two people during their relationship.

In one alleged incident, the former player dragged her naked across the floor and threw her out of a hotel room, Giggs assault trial heard on Tuesday.

Ms Greville was interviewed by police weeks after she alleged he headbutted her in November 2020.

Both were married when their affair started, she said, and she was unhappy in a controlling relationship with her husband.

She said: He would tell me about his marriage and he was not happy, I would talk about mine. Things developed from there and we started to have an affair. I left my husband two months later.

He was like a best friend, a soul mate, he was the one to save me from that marriage. It was more than a sexual thing.

It was like he was my best friend but there were definite red flags.

He said Giggs told her he needed more time to end his marriage with wife Stacey.

Eventually she gave him an ultimatum but nothing changed and she decided to move to Abu Dhabi to get away from him.

The prosecution at Manchester Crown Court say Giggs was idolised for his skills on the pitch but behind his public persona had an uglier and more sinister side.

Ryan Giggs is on trial accused of assault (PA Wire)

Jurors were told the 48-year-olds private life involved a litany of abuse, both physical and psychological, of a woman he professed to love.

Giggs denies using controlling and coercive behaviour against Ms Greville between August 2017 and November 2020.

He has also pleaded not guilty to assaulting the 36-year-old, causing her actual bodily harm, and of the common assault of her younger sister, Emma Greville, at his home in Worsley, Greater Manchester, on November 1 2020.

He is alleged to have lost control and headbutted Ms Greville after she decided to leave him.

Story continues

Giggs is then said to have deliberately elbowed Emma Greville in the jaw as she attempted to pull the former Wales boss off her sister as they grappled on the floor.

He stood down in June as manager of the Wales national team following a period of leave since November 2020.

During his time at Old Trafford, Manchester United won 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, four FA Cups and three League Cups.

Giggs is accused of controlling behaviour (PA Wire)

He won 64 caps for Wales and is co-owner of League Two side Salford City.

Ms Greville told police she met Giggs at the beginning of 2013 when her employers worked on a project launch with the footballers GG Hospitality firm.

She went on to notice he showed a definite interest in her and showed her attention which was subtle things to begin with.

She said: We did one interview with the media and he was literally staring at me across a table. It was not a comfortable stare. I was unnerved by it a little bit but it was also quite flattering at the time.

Giggs went on to repeatedly email her photographs of wherever he was, she said.

When her mother asked her to get a signed shirt from Giggs, she said: I knew that would be the start of something, I just could tell.

Ms Greville recalled she had an argument with her husband around the time and was feeling very s*** when she met Giggs in a hotel to hand over the shirt.

During their affair, she said Giggs kept promising he would leave his wife after she had ended her own marriage but it did not happen.

At one point she stopped speaking to him and ignored his messages and calls, she said.

Ms Greville told police that Giggs turned up at her apartment but she ignored him again and he shouted you are a whore. Have you got somebody in there?

He went on to threaten her that he would tell her boss about their secret affair, she said.

As their relationship went on, she said he would tell her he had left Stacey and had moved in with his mother.

She said: Then I found out he had not. That went on for about nine months and then I decided he is not going to split up with Stacey, that is not happening. I went to live in Abu Dhabi to get away with him.

Rumours began at her workplace about the pair but she lied about it because she was ashamed I was seeing a married man.

Giggs would message her saying the marriage was over but again she discovered it was not, she said.

Ms Greville said: It was just complete mind games. That went on for ages.

The affair became public in May 2016, the court heard, which she said was horrendous as she was hounded by the paps.

It was like he was almost two people. It was like is he a good person? is he a bad person?' I started to get horrendous anxiety

Kate Greville

It continued to be an on-off relationship despite her blocking him at times on her phone and emails, the court heard, as she said: It was literally like I was addicted to him. I couldnt get him out of my head.

Giggs flew out to Dubai and said to her lets start a family, you are the only person I want to be with, she said.

Ms Greville went on: Then he went back home and I found out he was dating another girl. I was absolutely devastated.

He denied it and said the woman had a boyfriend as she gave him another chance as he urged her to move back to Manchester with him and have a baby.

She said: It was like he was almost two people. It was like is he a good person? is he a bad person?

I started to get horrendous anxiety.

She told how she confronted him after he was clearly messaging a girl on his phone while were they were in a nightclub.

Ms Greville said he flipped as he squared up to her face and said thats my daughter, its over, we are done.

She said Giggs flipped again in a hotel room when he grabbed her by the wrists hard.

She said he literally dragged her naked body across the floor before he threw her belongings into the corridor.

Ms Greville said she was left humiliated and embarrassed as she found herself with no clothes on in the middle of the corridor.

Giggs denies the charges against him (PA Wire)

When she got back into bed he did not speak to her, she said.

She said: That was the first time he was aggressive to me.

Ms Greville said Giggs persuaded her to move back to Manchester from the Middle East to settle down together and start a family.

But his attitude was off with her, Ms Greville said, describing it as Like, Oh, I have got her now.'

Shortly afterwards while on holiday in Dubai, Ms Greville said she was on a sun lounger when she received an anonymous email from a man containing a naked photo of Giggs with a married woman.

Ms Greville said: It was not a picture of his head, but it was him. Your whole body goes into shock. That was the first time I realised, Actually maybe hes not what I think he is.'

The witness said if she was out with friends, Giggs would demand responses to his messages but if he was out, he would tell her, Im out with my friends. Why are you hassling me?

Ms Greville said she received another anonymous email claiming Giggs had been having an affair for more than a year with another woman.

She showed it to Giggs but he then blamed her, saying it was just lies and she needed to be strong and ignore such claims about him.

After hearing further information Giggs was in yet another relationship, he told her she needed to trust him.

Ms Greville said: He would constantly tell me its all me. I have no idea whats going on here. I was thinking, God, is it me?

At the time I think I was naive to it all. When I was in it, I still felt he was my world. I still thought he was my best friend.

I was just gullible I guess.

Ms Greville said they split up again and described their relationship as like a rollercoaster, with them still having sex all the time.

He was just using me for sex, Ms Greville said. There was never a time when he did not want to have sex.

She said that with her work for a PR firm employed by Giggs businesses, she was worried for her job and Giggs implying her employment could be in jeopardy.

Ms Greville said she found out he was seeing another different woman but Giggs blocked her messages, telling her he was fed up of being accused.

Ms Greville said she again ended the relationship but added: Then the emails would start again. I miss you. I want to be with you. I made a mistake. Just let me know, have I got a chance?'

Giggs then turned up at her gym and at her flat, where they rowed, he smashed a lamp and stormed out, she said.

The trial continues.
A month after a July 3 shooting in front of a South Tacoma apartment left four people injured, a second suspect has been arrested and charged for his role in the incident.

18-year-old Maleik Alexander Rosa was arrested by Tacoma Police officers last Thursday and charged by Pierce County Superior Court the following day for six felony charges: four counts of assault in the first degree, one count of drive-by shooting and one charge of unlawful possession of a firearm in the first degree.

According to charging documents, the shooting was the aftermath of prolonged disagreements between two tenants of an apartment near the 3300 block of South Asotin Street. 35-year-old Ronnay C. Scott, who was arrested in July on similar charges to Rosa, and a 26-year-old tenant both told officers they were fighting with each other just prior to the shooting.

When the 26-year-old woman went to Scotts apartment to raise issues about his children, Scott answered the door holding a butter knife. The woman knocked the butter knife out of Scotts hand, and the two pushed, grabbed and shoved each other until the 26-year-olds mother broke up the fight.

According to the 26-year-old, after they were separated, Scott said she had something for her. Scott then drove her two children away from the complex and returned with others in the car, including Rosa. According to the documents, witness accounts of how many people were in the car vary between three and five individuals but were consistent that they were wearing ski masks and openly shot at the the family of the 26-year-olds mother.

The bullets hit four people near the apartment complex: the mother was shot in the foot; her son, who had come to defend the mother, was shot in the hip; a pregnant woman was shot in her hip and thigh; and another man was shot in his abdomen. It is unclear from the charging documents whether the suspects were inside or outside the car when they shot the four victims.

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Soon afterwards, an apartment camera recorded two individuals shooting bullets a few blocks away on Alaska Street. While it is unclear who they were aiming at, the bullets struck two windows of a minivan parked nearby. In an email to The News Tribune, Pierce County spokesperson Adam Faber said detectives are still investigating whether the same people were involved in both incidents.

When Scott was arrested and interrogated in July, she identified her sister and Rosa as the two other people in her car wearing ski masks. In addition to claiming that she acted out of self defense after being assaulted, Scott told Tacoma police detectives that she had hoped that the trio would stop at beating up the 26-year-old; she did not expect guns to be involved in an altercation. Faber said Scotts sister is being actively investigated for her role in the shooting.

During the investigation, detectives discovered that Rosa, who was already a suspect in three prior Tacoma shootings this year, had fled the state to Georgia. He returned to Washington in early August, and police spotted him entering the drivers seat of a car last Thursday. A vehicle chase ensued and ended when police trapped Rosas car. The charging documents indicate that he refused to speak with authorities upon being arrested.

A superior court judge has set Rosas bail at $1 million. His jury trial is set to begin Sept. 22.
Fredrick Cliff Kirkland was back in court as a convicted sex offender in July, this time in a last-ditch appeal to get a judge to overturn his conviction for molesting three minor girls or grant him a new trial.

The much thinner former Biloxi city official, public relations guru and longtime journalist had his hands and legs shackled as deputies escorted the 69-year-old in a red and white jail jumpsuit to the defense table in Biloxi Circuit Court.

Kirkland sat next to his defense attorney, Keith Pisarich, who argued that the testimony and evidence at Kirklands trial were legally insufficient as a matter of law to support Kirklands conviction on nine counts of touching a child for lustful purposes.

Kirkland is serving a 35-year prison sentence for the crimes. As a convicted sex offender, Kirkland is not eligible for early release, instead having to do his time day for day.

From 2013 to 2017, Kirkland molested the victims at different times on various occasions on a pull-out couch in his makeshift apartment upstairs at his Thomas Street home.

At the July 25 hearing, Pisarich argued Judge Larry Bourgeois erred when he refused to restrict Harrison County prosecuting attorneys Alison Baker and George Huffman from referring to three minor accusers as victims during the trial, saying the reference seemed to validate the truthfulness of the witness testimony for the jurors.

Cliff Kirkland smiles as his lawyer shows him text messages that are evidence during Kirklands trial for allegedly molesting underage girls in Harrison County Circuit Court in Biloxi on Tuesday, May 17, 2022.

In some ways, Pisarich said, that tells the jury that its been predetermined that the girls are legitimate victims and thus destroyed the assumption of innocence for Kirkland at trial.

Cliff Kirklands young victims speak: I cannot escape the memories and flashbacks.

Pisarich also argued Bourgeois erred when he refused to sever the cases involving the three minor accusers so that Kirkland could defend himself against the allegations from each accuser separately during three different trials. He also questioned the validity of the victims testimony.

Pisarich said what the girls described to jurors at the May trial seemed like it was straight out of a storybook, suggesting that the girls had gotten together long before the trial to decide what and how they would describe to authorities and jurors what had happened to them.

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A photo of the Blue House, Cliff Kirklands residence, is shown on the screen as Biloxi Police Investigator Steven Kelly testifies in the trial of Cliff Kirkland in Harrison County Circuit Court in Biloxi on Monday, May 16, 2022.

Pisarich noted two victims stepped forward after the first girl confided in her cheer coach about the crimes. The cheer coach reported the allegations to Biloxi police, and the first victim told the other two victims she had finally told someone with authority about what Kirkland had done to them.

Prosecutors dismissed the defenses arguments for a new trial, pointing out that standard jury instructions often mention the word victim and that cases dont have to be severed for a fair trial.

In this case, Baker said, the crimes occurred in the same time frame in the same blue house on Thomas Street in Biloxi that Kirkland owned.

Tummy massage, chocolate cake: Cliff Kirkland sent texts to alleged victims for years

The judge listened to the arguments for over an hour before promptly denying the request to overturn the convictions or grant Kirkland a new trial.

As deputies led Kirkland out of the courtroom, he looked over toward distraught family members on the front row and mouthed love you on his way out.

Dalliance Ross, Kirklands daughter, reacts as her father is sentenced to 35 years in prison during a trial for sexual abuse charges in Harrison County Court on Wednesday, May 18, 2022.

The defense asked the judge to allow Kirkland to remain housed in the Harrison County jail for at least another month before he is transferred to state prison. The judge granted that request.

His attorney is appealing the conviction to a higher court.

Cliff Kirkland is led away by the Harrison County Sheriffs Department after being found guilty on all charges by the jury during a trial of Kirkland for sexual abuse charges at Harrison County Circuit Court in Biloxi on Wednesday, May 18, 2022. Kirkland was sentenced to 35 years in prison.
As the late crowd files into the Clearwater St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen for breakfast, Kathy Hamm greets each one like an old friend. Are they getting enough to eat? Did that Social Security card finally come in?

When the group thins out, Hamm heads across the parking lot to talk to Dan Marscher, a Clearwater police officer she works with on a near-daily basis. She has an update of her own.

Im officially homeless, she says, leaning against the door of the patrol car, her frizzy red hair spilling over her navy polo.

Marscher shakes his head. As a homeless outreach worker, Hamm has devoted herself to keeping people off the street.

Damn, thats depressing, he eventually offers.

Its a situation thats becoming disturbingly common across Tampa Bay. As skyrocketing rents and record inflation force people out of stable housing, the organizations  and workers  that serve the homeless are facing a crisis of their own, said April Lott, the CEO of Directions for Living, the nonprofit where Hamm works.

Lott and her colleagues at other nonprofits are losing employees who are being priced out, she said.

Hamm, 59, found out two months ago that her rent was going up $800. Even with a recent promotion and raise, she isnt making nearly enough to pay the $2,100 rent and to cover expenses. For the moment, shes couch surfing between apartments where her son and boyfriend live.

Tampa Bays infrastructure for helping the homeless was already spread thin before the pandemic, but in the current circumstances it is at a critical point.

It is unconscionable  (to have) my agency in particular, but the system as a whole in general, saying, We cant serve you. We cant help you, Lott said.

A bad storm

Since 1982, Directions for Living has provided a range of services to the most vulnerable populations in the Pinellas County area, including referrals to shelters for people living on the street, assistance for renters falling behind on payments and counseling for families and people struggling with mental health.

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In the last few months, requests for these services have risen sharply. Directions for Living was serving 10 to 15 homeless families per month before the pandemic. They are now seeing nearly 80. For homeless seniors, calls are up by over 400%.

First it was the pandemic, now its all in the rental crisis, said Elijah Mitchell, who does street outreach for the organization. Mitchell has two full-time jobs and is struggling to make ends meet.

If anyone knows just how widespread Tampa Bays homelessness crisis has become, its Hamm.

When you go to get your food service now, theyre homeless, Hamm says. The lady thats cleaning your hotel room that you came down here to vacation (in), theyre homeless.

This is happening in real time.

The homeless services industry comprises a web of nonprofits that provide wide-ranging and overlapping services. At any given moment, a staff member at one organization will refer a client to another, depending on the clients needs: a temporary shelter bed for a single person or family, a substance abuse detox, longer-term transitional housing or food and rental assistance.

At organizations across the region, all beds are full at any given time, and waitlists can stretch for months, staff said. Extra buckets of funding set aside at the height of the pandemic to temporarily house families and other high-risk groups have been exhausted or expired, leaving shelters with fewer beds as the need for them soars.

Jennifer Stracick, executive director of ALPHA House, a nonprofit working to prevent homelessness among pregnant women, new mothers and babies, says her organization has seen more than a 50% uptick in calls from mothers facing eviction due to job loss or rent increases.

We are getting calls that we cannot accommodate, that are people that are losing their jobs, and they just cant afford to live, Stracick said. Theyre just desperate.

Earlier this month, Grace House, Pinellas largest shelter for families, closed its doors after losing funding.

Across the bay in Hillsborough County, the situation is no different.

If its not a perfect storm, its a bad storm, said Tim Marks, CEO of Tampa-based Metropolitan Ministries, citing a combination of higher costs for food, labor and logistics, and increased instability. These factors have turned people who once donated to the organization into clients.

Metropolitan Ministries nearly 300 units of affordable housing across Hillsborough and Pasco counties are full, and they have received over 1,600 requests for emergency shelter in the last four months alone.

When asked about how the homeless people they serve felt, Lott, Stracick, Marks and their colleagues throughout the region all come back to the same few words: frustration, desperation, hopelessness.

More than just a job

Hamm refuses to let herself get to that point.

Despite the overwhelming surge in demand and her own precarious circumstances, she manages to approach her work with an optimism and no-nonsense pragmatism.

Her secret? A determination not to cast judgment on anyone she meets  not Tony, who has a rap sheet of five pages, or Mary, who made a beeline for a crack house the minute she got out of detox.

Hamm approaches her outreach with a radical egalitarianism, and she refuses to draw distinctions between herself and the people she serves.

Its not (just a job), she says, because you look out here, and this could be family members. It could be my grandkids sleeping in a car.

Hamm raised two kids as a single mom in Kentucky, bringing her youngest with her 23 years ago when she moved down to Florida and took a job at a call center. Her descendants are spread out between the two states, but she does all she can to keep them close  the names of her six grandchildren are tattooed on her forearms, and little Grayson, her 1-year-old great-grandson, is inscribed on her ankle.

Her last Thursday morning check-in complete, Hamm bounces back over to her silver Hyundai and pulls out of St. Vincent de Paul.

Mixed in with the snack packs Hamm carries in her car for homeless people are cardboard boxes filled with her own possessions, left over from recent trips back and forth to the storage space.

Using diversion

By midday, Hamm has pulled her car into the lot at Crest Lake Park. On the grassy median between the seven unruly lanes of Gulf to Bay Boulevard and the small body of water that anchors the park, two middle-aged men fiddle with their bicycles under a palm tree.

One of them, shirtless with a deeply lined, tan face, missing teeth and long, stringy hair, breaks into a grin and gives Hamm a friendly wave. Its Hillbilly. He says hes about to go dumpster diving behind the Churchs Chicken across the street.

Hamm offers Hillbilly a smoke from her pack of 305s, and they make their way back to her car.

As they walk together, Hillbilly says hes too tired to make the 2-mile trek to Peace Memorial Presbyterian Church for a free dinner, and besides, he needs to go steal some socks for himself first.

Hamm pops the trunk and pulls a fresh pair out of a Ziploc bag for him. Then a packet of tuna, a cup of applesauce, a tube of sunscreen.

She watches Hillbilly speed away on his bike.

In the homeless services industry, this ethos of improvisation is embodied by a tactic called diversion. The idea is to use whatever resources are available to get someone off the street as quickly as possible  and prevent them from worsening their situation.

On any given day, this could mean driving someone to a homeless shelter, buying them a bus or plane ticket back to a city where family can house them, writing a check to cover a months utility bills or carrying out any number of other spur-of-the-moment interventions.

With limited resources and growing need, homeless services organizations are being forced to turn the logic of diversion inward and apply it to their own overextended budgets.

For Stracick at ALPHA House, that means going without an administrative assistant and a life skills counselor.

At Metropolitan Ministries, Marks has shifted their rental assistance voucher program from paying clients full rent to covering just half. Theyve been forced to cut the number of requests they accept by nearly 50%.

At a certain point, the money is either there, or its not.

Metropolitan Ministries saw a 25% decrease in private donations last month from the amount they received a year ago. Theyve gone nearly five times over their normal budget for food and are still seeing empty shelves in their pantry.

At Directions for Living, Lott worries about Tampa Bays homelessness crisis spiraling further.

My fear is what they are beginning to see in other much larger cities, Lott said. People are literally just lining the streets because they have no other place to go.

This is really happening

Its the end of Hamms shift, and she sits in her car in the Directions for Living parking lot as rain batters the windshield.

After hours spent using every resource at her disposal to get people off the street, she must now begin negotiating her own reality.

That means more trips to the storage space, stashing her prized possessions  photo albums from family trips across Kentucky, the fawning poem her son wrote at 16 to convince her to buy him a car, the vast collection of 3,000 DVDs shes accumulated over the years. All stuffed in an anonymous cubby behind a heavy metal door.

I saw people pulling up to the storage unit yesterday, just to get clothes and personal items, and Im thinking, Wow, this is really happening, you know. This is really it, Hamm said.
(Bloomberg) -- SoftBank Group Corp.s Masayoshi Son said he plans widespread cost cutting at his Japanese conglomerate and its Vision Fund investment arm after a record $23.4 billion loss on plunging portfolio valuations and foreign currency losses. Shares dropped.

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The Tokyo-based company lost the vast majority of that money -- $17.3 billion -- in the Vision Fund, as it marked down the value of holdings such as Coupang Inc., SenseTime Group Ltd. and DoorDash Inc. SoftBank also reported a $6.1 billion foreign exchange loss because of the weaker yen.

The 64-year-old struck a darkly somber tone after the results Monday, taking responsibility for buying into startups at the height of the market and pledging to slash expenses to get back on track. Son said he will review everything for potential cuts without any sacred cows. SoftBank will scrutinize senior and junior employees in both front and back offices to an extent never experienced before.

The loss is the biggest in our corporate history and we take it very seriously, Son said during a press conference in Tokyo. We have to resort to big cost-cutting efforts at Vision Fund. The cost cutting efforts will have to include a reduction in head count - something Ive made up my mind to do.

SoftBank shares fell as much as 8.1% in Tokyo on Tuesday, their biggest intraday slump since April.

Son detailed extensive problems and missteps in his portfolio, unusual for a self-made billionaire who tends to emphasize the positive. He said SoftBank had marked down 284 companies in its portfolio in the latest quarter, while only 35 went up in value. The markdowns included publicly traded portfolio companies, but also hundreds of private companies whose estimated values had dropped because of weak performance or lower comparisons.

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A quarter earlier, SoftBank still had profits of about 3 trillion yen ($22 billion) in its investment arm, which includes the first and second Vision Funds as well as Latin American funds. As of June, essentially all of those profits had disappeared.

We really believed we could do it and we had our heads in the clouds, Son said. Of course, the market was bad, there was a war, and there was the coronavirus. We can point to a lot of reasons, but these are all excuses. We have to self-reflect about the fact that if wed been more selective and had invested more properly, it wouldnt come to this.

Asked about what lessons he has learned from the experience, Son said, There are too many to count.

With the first Vision Fund, Son said he was trying for home runs and struck out with companies like WeWork Inc. In Vision Fund 2, he tried a more modest approach of getting on base, but valuations were too high. Now, he will sharply scale back. Were currently strictly suppressing new investments, he said.

SoftBank approved about $600 million in investments in the June quarter, compared with $20.6 billion a year earlier.

With SVF losses expanding and no sign of a turnaround, managements balance sheet-focused strategy is becoming clearer, Citigroup analysts Mitsunobu Tsuruo and Tailai Qiu wrote in a report.

SoftBank raised a huge slug of capital by selling forward contracts on Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., the Chinese e-commerce company that made Sons reputation as a startup investor. He took in $10.5 billion during the June quarter and then procured another $6.8 billion through such contracts on and after July 1.

Son also said SoftBank has begun talks to sell asset manager Fortress Investment Group, confirming a Bloomberg News report. The Japanese company bought Fortress for $3.3 billion in 2017, but it had to cede day-to-day control of the company to win US approval of the deal.

They have to sell what they can, and invest only in the good ones, said Mitsushige Akino, a senior executive officer at Ichiyoshi Asset Management Co. in Tokyo. Its clear theyre still facing headwinds.

SoftBank is also selling part or all of its 9% stake in SoFi Technologies Inc., according to a Monday filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

To bolster SoftBanks share price, Son unveiled a fresh program to buy back as much as 400 billion yen of its own stock. The company has turned to such repurchases repeatedly in recent years, including a 1 trillion yen program announced in November.

SoftBanks Vision Fund, the worlds largest technology investment vehicle, holds large stakes in hundreds of unlisted technology startups. But low valuations have been draining SoftBanks ability to turn public listings of its portfolio companies into liquidity to fuel further big bets.

SoftBank said the Vision Fund losses included 293.4 billion yen for Coupang, 235.9 billion yen for SenseTime and 220.7 billion yen for DoorDash. It was also hit by drops at AutoStore Holdings and WeWork. SoftBank exited its holding in Uber Technologies Inc., the US ride-hailing giant that was supposed to be a star in its portfolio.

SoftBank and Son are now trying to wait out the technology slump so that they can extract a return on their $32 billion purchase of chip designer unit Arm Ltd. The CEO is planning an initial public offering for Arm next year and has said he aims to make the offering the biggest-ever for a chip company.

Son is facing perhaps the steepest challenges of his career and he is taking more of the responsibility on his own shoulders. Chief Operating Officer Marcelo Claure left earlier this year, while former Chief Strategy Officer Katsunori Sago resigned in 2021.

Rajeev Misra, long-time head of the Vision Fund, is stepping away from most of his responsibilities and will start his own investment fund. Son said he will take over as chief executive of the second Vision Fund.

Son, known for his eccentric presentations, began the press conference by showing an illustration of Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of the heroic figures in Japanese history. The image, however, shows the warrior after a defeat in battle, grim and dejected. Son said he was going to look at the image of the shogun-to-be to force himself to learn from his mistakes.

Im sorry what we shared today was depressing, he said near the end of the event. I wanted to be honest and transparent.

(Updates with shares from the first paragraph)

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COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP)  Sri Lanka has asked China to defer a port call of a scientific research ship after security concerns were reportedly raised by neighboring India.

The Foreign Ministry ministry said in a statement Monday night that the Chinese vessel Yuan Wang 5 was scheduled to arrive at southern Hambantota port on Thursday and stay until Aug. 17 for replenishment purposes, but in the light of the need for further consultations the government asked the Chinese Embassy in Colombo to defer to ship's arrival.

The ministry did not give any specific reason but India's security concerns over the presence of the ship close to its southern borders could be a likely reason.

Indias foreign ministry spokesman Arindam Bagchi said earlier that India was aware of a planned visit by the vessel and that it carefully monitors any development that affects its security and economic interests and will take all measures to safeguard them.

China has been vying to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean nation, which sits along one of the busiest shipping routes and which India considers part of its strategic backyard.

India has provided crucial assistance to Sri Lanka including food, fuel, medicines and cooking gas as it struggles with an economic meltdown amid a severe foreign currency crisis. At the same time, China's agreement to restructure its infrastructure loans to Sri Lanka is vital for the country to be able to reach a bailout program with the International Monetary Fund.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters on Monday that it is completely unjustified for certain countries to cite the so-called security concerns to pressure Sri Lanka."

As Sri Lanka grapples with economic and political difficulties, to grossly interfere in Sri Lankas normal exchange and cooperation with other countries is to exploit its vulnerability, which is morally irresponsible and against the basic norms governing international relations," he said.

We urge the relevant parties to see Chinas marine scientific research activities in a rational light and stop disrupting normal exchange and cooperation between China and Sri Lanka, he said.

China backed Sri Lanka during a civil war with ethnic Tamils rebels and defended it from accusations of gross human rights abuses. Since the end of war in 2009, China has lent Sri Lanka billions of dollars for development projects, some of which have been criticized for having little practical use. They include Hambantota port, which Sri Lanka leased to China in 2017 because it could not pay back the loan.
Stephen and Ayesha Curry recently shared a dreamy anniversary trip to France. With the lifestyles the two lead, its likely hard to find time to get away, let alone enough time to relax enough to feel romantic. But, this super cute couple found the time to celebrate 11 years of marriage in the South of France.

Ayesha Curry wrote on her Instagram page: Its truly flown by. Getting to spend my life with my best friennnnnd, my love, my rock, my everything. Every year just gets better! I am so grateful and feel so blessed.

The two spent their time away from the court and restaurant and in the close comfort of each other, first sipping on cocktails and espressos, then taking walks around the towns of Saint-Tropez and Antibes. After meeting in church as teens, the two grew closer and eventually married. Soon, they welcomed three children into their family.

Stephen is an obvious family man as well as a true fan of his wife. He has been by her side, encouraging her through times of insecurity and silly public comments. Ayesha has been by her husbands side, too, often doting on Stephen herself.

Orchids dressed the table when the two stopped for drinks and dessert at Anjuna in the coastal town of Eze, France. Warm this time of year, you can see Ayeshas fan sitting nearby, just under her shades and bag. Blue skies and water make the amorous day-scene pop.

And, can we talk about Ayeshas style for a minute? The pink dress with ruffles certainly makes the perfect date day fit for France. Not to mention, the high-cut, super white bikini? That needs to be on every bikini wearers packing list.

One thing thats easy to see across the posts from their romantic getaway is that the two love hanging out! Their smiles surely say it all. The glow they have around each other beams love.

Congratulations to Ayesha and Stephen Curry on their romantic anniversary trip. Travel Noire wishes you many more years of wedded bliss and dreamy trips to France!

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Portage County Courthouse in Ravenna, Ohio

A Streetsboro man is facing felony charges stemming from an allegation that he assaulted a 69-year-old neighbor with a metal pipe and his fists.

More:Aurora man charged in father's stabbing death will not testify in his bench trial

James Zackary, 39, of Wellman Road, was arraigned in Portage County Municipal Court on Monday on two counts of second-degree felony assault in a grand jury indictment.

More:Former Portage County court mediator charged with mailing feces to elected officials

According to a complaint Streetsboro police filed in Portage County Municipal Court in Kent, Zackary punched his neighbor "multiple times and assaulted him with a metal pipe, causing injuries to his head, eye, elbow, and arm" at a Wellman Road address near Zackary's home on July 27.

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Zackary's attorney, Danny Weisenburger, said he was still gathering information about the case and he declined to comment.

Streetsboro Police Lt. Rich Polivka said that when officers arrived at the scene, they found the 69-year-old standing in the road bleeding from cuts to his head, arms and elbow. One of the man's eyes was black and blue and partially swollen shut, said Polivka, and there was blood splattered on a nearby driveway. Polivka said there was apparently an issue between the two men that led to the alleged assault.

EMS took the neighbor to UH Portage Medical Center. Polivka said he did not know how long the man was in the hospital, but he may have been released by Aug. 1 when a police officer was able to get a written statement from him.

Polivka said officers went to Zackary's home shortly after the alleged assault but were unable to contact him, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Twinsburg police arrested Zackary on July 30 and turned him over to Streetsboro police, who took him to Portage County Jail.

Zackary is free on a $50,000 bond, posted by a bail bonding firm. Conditions of the bond include that he have no contact with the neighbor and that he be placed on electronically monitored house arrest, with work privileges.

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Zackary is scheduled for an Oct. 25 jury trial. Also scheduled are a Sept. 21 status conference and pretrial hearing and an Oct. 19 pretrial hearing.

Reporter Jeff Saunders can be reached at jsaunders@recordpub.com.

This article originally appeared on Record-Courier: Streetsboro man, 69, allegedly beaten with fists, metal pipe
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Formerly known as food stamps, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the most important anti-hunger initiative in America. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), SNAP provided food security to about 41.5 million people in 2021, with an average benefit of $218.14 per person.

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Recipients use Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards to receive funds and make purchases, and they can use those cards to buy a whole lot more than just standard groceries. Here's a look at some of the more unusual things that SNAP will pay for.

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Energy Drinks -- Some, at Least

You can use SNAP funds to buy energy drinks, but only if they meet the USDA's strict standards. If the energy drink has a "nutritional facts" label, it makes the cut, according to New York SNAP EBT. If it has a "supplemental facts" label, it's considered a supplement and cannot be purchased with EBT. That means Red Bull, Rockstar and Starbucks Double Shot make the grade, but 5 Hour Energy, Bang Shot and Tweaker do not.

Feyyaz Alacam / Shutterstock.com

Coffee and Tea -- the Kind You Make Yourself

You can use SNAP to buy packaged coffee -- not to mention creamer -- and that includes Keurig-style K-cups. You cannot, however, buy coffee that's ready to drink. If you're thinking that you'll make your own coffee at home and just switch to tea when you're out, that won't work either. Tea, too, is limited to packaged and unbrewed because the USDA doesn't allow SNAP funds to be used to buy any hot beverages.

CSNafzger / Shutterstock.com

Hunting and Fishing Gear -- But You Have to Live Way, Way Out There

Even if you live in a rural area and kill what you eat, you can't just swipe your EBT card to pick up a new fiberglass rod at Bass Pro Shops -- but hunting and fishing gear is SNAP-eligible for a very specific and very tiny population. According to the USDA, some residents in the most remote parts of Alaska rely almost exclusively on hunting and fishing to feed their households because of the extreme difficulty involved with buying food at stores.

The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services gives qualifying households special identification cards. They can't buy guns and ammo, but they can buy things such as nets, rods, harpoons, lines and knives.

hapabapa / iStock.com

Restaurant Meals -- for Certain People in Certain Places

You can't use SNAP to pay for dine-in restaurant meals -- unless you qualify for the SNAP Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) and live in a state that participates in it. RMP serves vulnerable populations like the elderly, people experiencing homelessness and the disabled.

Participating restaurants must offer meals at "concessional prices" to qualifying diners.

While it's not as limited as Alaska's subsistence hunting program, very few states participate in RMP. It's available all over California, Arizona, Michigan, Maryland and Virginia, as well as in select counties in Rhode Island.

Good Question: Does KFC Accept SNAP EBT Cards?

Kyselova Inna / Shutterstock.com

Seeds and Plants

The USDA allows SNAP recipients to buy edible plants like basil or food-producing plants like tomato plants with their EBT cards, as well as seeds for growing their own food. The USDA says you can grow $25 worth of produce for every dollar spent on seeds and fertilizer, yet Modern Farmer says this important inclusion is one of the least known parts of the whole SNAP program.

You can use your EBT card to get seeds and plants at any SNAP-approved retailer, including farmer's markets.

Walmart.com

Gift Baskets -- Depending on What's Inside

The USDA allows you to spend SNAP funds on gift baskets and similar purchases as long as at least half of what's inside is edible. Even if they contain eligible edibles, nonfood items such as toys, stockings and tins don't count if "the value of the non-food part of the item clearly accounts for more than 50% of the purchase price," according to the USDA. The agency gives the example of a stuffed holiday bear that comes with a small package of chocolate: That won't count. A gift basket containing mostly meat and cheese, however, would be acceptable.

Stephanie Botkin / Shutterstock.com

Live Lobsters

Like tobacco, alcohol, vitamins and medicine, live animals are on the USDA's list of items that you can't buy with SNAP benefits. There are, however, a few rare exceptions, including shellfish, "fish removed from the water" and "animals slaughtered prior to pick-up from the store."

That means that, while you can't use your EBT card to buy a puppy from a pet store, you can use SNAP to buy a lobster to bring home to meet its unfortunate fate on your kitchen stovetop.

dontree_m / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Snacks of All Kinds

Most people probably know that SNAP recipients can use their EBT cards to buy household grocery staples such as meat, milk, eggs, vegetables and bread, but what's not as well known is the long list of snacks that are on the USDA's approved list. It includes everything from marshmallows and marzipan to pudding and popsicles.

Cakes, pies, doughnuts, muffins, pastries and all sorts of other things cakey and flaky make the list, as do chips, crisps, popcorn and finger food of all stripes. Ice cream, candy, chocolate, custard, scones, churros and much, much more all get a pass from the USDA -- in fact, if a kid can dream of it, chances are good SNAP will pay for it.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Surprising Things You Can Buy With Food Stamps
Taiwan's military conducts artillery live-fire drills in Pingtung, in the southern part of the self-governing island. (Johnson Lai / Associated Press)

The foreign minister of Taiwan said Tuesday that China is using military drills to rehearse an invasion of the self-governing island, while the Taiwanese military began its own live-fire exercises in a show of readiness to fend off a potential attack.

Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said Beijing aimed to establish its dominance in the Western Pacific and annex the island, which it claims as its own territory. That would include gaining control of the East and South China Seas via the Taiwan Strait and preventing the U.S. and its allies from aiding Taiwan, he said at a news conference in Taipei, the capital.

China says its drills were prompted by the visit to the island last week by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), but Wu said Beijing was using her trip as a pretext for intimidating moves it has long had in the works. China also banned some Taiwanese food imports after the visit and cut off dialogue with the U.S. on various issues, including military contacts, transnational crime and climate change.

The U.S. has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan in deference to Beijing, but is legally bound to ensure the island can defend itself and to treat all threats against it  including a blockade  as matters of grave concern. That leaves open the question of whether Washington would dispatch forces if China attacked Taiwan. President Biden has said repeatedly the U.S. was bound to do so, in comments swiftly walked back by his staff.

The exercises show Chinas geostrategic ambition beyond Taiwan, Wu said.

China has no right to interfere in or alter Taiwans democratic processes or interactions with other governments, he said, adding that Taiwan and the mainland are separate jurisdictions, with neither subordinate to the other.

Since Thursday, China has sent military ships and planes across the midline in the Taiwan Strait and launched missiles into waters surrounding the island. Ignoring calls to calm tensions, Beijing has extended exercises amounting to a blockade without announcing when they will end.

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The drills have disrupted flights and shipping in one of the busiest zones for global trade. Taiwan has put its forces on alert, but has so far refrained from taking active countermeasures.

On Tuesday, its military held live-fire artillery drills in Pingtung County on its southeastern coast.

The army will continue to train and build up strength to deal with the threat from China, said Maj. Gen. Lou Woei-jye, spokesperson for Taiwan's 8th Army command. No matter what the situation is ... this is the best way to defend Taiwan.

A visitor from the nearby port city of Kaohsiung said the exercises were necessary to let China know we are prepared."

I hope both sides can exercise restraint. Fighting a war is not good for the ordinary people, said the man, who gave only his surname, Chen.

Taiwan, a former Japanese colony with only loose connections to imperial China, split from the mainland in 1949 after China's civil war. Despite never having governed the island, China's ruling Communist Party regards it as its own territory and has sought to isolate it diplomatically and economically in addition to ratcheting up military threats.

Taiwan is a crucial provider of computer chips for the global economy, including China's high-tech sectors. An extended crisis in the Taiwan Strait, a major thoroughfare for global trade, could have major implications for international supply chains at a time when the global economy is facing disruptions and uncertainty.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
By Sarah Wu and Yimou Lee

TAIPEI (Reuters) -Taiwan's foreign minister said on Tuesday that China was using the military drills it launched in protest against U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit as a game-plan to prepare for an invasion of the self-ruled island.

Joseph Wu, who offered no time-table for a possible invasion of Taiwan, which is claimed by China as its own, said Taiwan would not be intimidated even as the drills continued with China often breaching the unofficial median line down the Taiwan Strait.

"China has used the drills in its military play-book to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan," Wu told a news conference in Taipei.

"It is conducting large-scale military exercises and missile launches, as well as cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic coercion, in an attempt to weaken public morale in Taiwan.

"After the drills conclude, China may try to routinize its action in an attempt to wreck the long-term status quo across the Taiwan Strait."

Such moves threatened regional security and provided "a clear image of China's geostrategic ambitions beyond Taiwan", Wu said, urging greater international support to stop China effectively controlling the strait.

China's Taiwan Affairs Office responded to Wu's comments by saying he was a "diehard" supporter of Taiwan independence, and his remarks "distort the truth and obscure the facts".

A Pentagon official said on Monday that Washington was sticking to its assessment that China would not try to invade Taiwan for the next two years.

Wu spoke as military tensions simmer after the scheduled end on Sunday of four days of the largest-ever Chinese exercises surrounding the island - drills that included ballistic missile launches and simulated sea and air attacks in the skies and seas surrounding Taiwan.

Pelosi said on Tuesday her visit to Taiwan had been "absolutely" worth it and hard harsh words for Beijing.

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"We cannot allow the Chinese government to isolate Taiwan," she said in an interview with NBC News. China managed to exclude Taiwan from the World Health Organization, she said, but "they're not going to say who can go to Taiwan."

Her visit followed President Joe Biden's directive that the United States would focus on the Asia-Pacific region and had overwhelming bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress, she said.

China's Eastern Theatre Command said on Monday it would conduct fresh joint drills focusing on anti-submarine and sea assault operations - confirming the fears of some security analysts and diplomats that Beijing would keep up the pressure on Taiwan's defences.

On Tuesday, the command said it continued to hold military drills and exercises in the seas and airspace around Taiwan, with warships, fighters as well as early warning, refuelling and jamming aircraft "under a complex electromagnetic environment to refine joint containment and control capabilities".

'STANDOFF'

A person familiar with security planning in the areas around Taiwan said there was a continuing standoff around the median line involving about 10 warships each from China and Taiwan.

"China continued to try to press in to the median line," the person told Reuters. "Taiwan forces there have been trying to keep the international waterways open."

Taiwan's Defense Ministry said on Tuesday that China's continued military exercises "highlight that its threat of force has not decreased", adding that 16 Chinese fighters had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait at its northern end.

As Pelosi left the region last Friday, China also ditched some lines of communication with the United States, including theatre level military talks and discussions on climate change.

Taiwan started its own long-scheduled drills on Tuesday, firing howitzer artillery out to sea in the southern county of Pingtung, attracting a small crowd of curious onlookers to a nearby beach.

Biden, in his first public comments on the issue since Pelosi's visit, said on Monday he was concerned about China's actions in the region but he was not worried about Taiwan.

"I'm concerned they are moving as much as they are," Biden told reporters in Delaware. "But I don't think they're going to do anything more than they are."

Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl also said the U.S. military would continue to carry out voyages through the Taiwan Strait in the coming weeks.

China has never ruled out taking Taiwan by force and on Monday Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said that China was conducting normal military exercises "in our waters" in an open, transparent and professional way, adding Taiwan was part of China.

Taiwan rejects China's sovereignty claims, saying only the Taiwanese people can decide the island's future.

(Reporting by Sarah Wu and Yimou Lee in Taipei; Additionl reporting by Ann Wang in Pingtung, Taiwan and Doina Chiacu in Washington; Writing by Greg Torode and Ben Blanchard; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan and Mike Harrison)
By Mohammad Yunus Yawar

KABUL (Reuters) - Monesa Mubarez is not going to give up the rights she and other Afghan women won during 20 years of Western-backed rule easily.

Before the hardline Islamist Taliban movement swept back to power a year ago, the 31-year-old served as a director of policy monitoring at the finance ministry.

She was one of many women, mostly in big cities, who won freedoms that a former generation could not have dreamed of under the Taliban's previous rule in the late 1990s.

Now Mubarez has no job, after the Taliban's strict interpretation of Islamic law severely limited women's ability to work, required them to dress and act conservatively and closed secondary schools to girls across the country.

Under the new government, there are no women in the cabinet and the Ministry of Women's Affairs was shut down.

"One war ended, but the battle to find a rightful place for Afghan women has started ... we will raise our voice against every injustice until the last breath," said Mubarez, who is among the most prominent campaigners in the capital Kabul.

Despite the risk of beatings and detention by Taliban members patrolling the streets in the weeks after the Western-backed government was toppled, she took part in several protests that broke out, determined to protect her hard-fought rights.

Those demonstrations have died down - the last one Mubarez took part in was on May 10.

But she and others meet in homes in private acts of defiance, discussing women's rights and encouraging people to join the cause. Such gatherings would have been virtually unthinkable the last time the Taliban governed Afghanistan.

During one such meeting at her home in July, Mubarez and a group of women sat in a circle on the floor, spoke about their experiences and chanted words including "food", "work" and "freedom" as if they were at an outdoor rally.

"We fight for our own freedom, we fight for our rights and status, we work for no country, organisation or spy agency. This is our country, this is our homeland, and we have every right to live here," she told Reuters.

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The country representative for UN Women in Afghanistan, Alison Davidian, said stories like Mubarez's are being repeated across the country.

"For many women across the world, walking outside the front door of your home is an ordinary part of life," she said. "For many Afghan women, it is extraordinary. It is an act of defiance."

While rules on women's behaviour in public are not always clear cut, in relatively liberal urban centres like Kabul they often travel without a male chaperone. That is less common in more conservative regions, largely in the south and east.

All women are required to have a male chaperone when they travel more than 78 km (48 miles).

STICKING POINT

The Taliban's treatment of girls and women is one of the main reasons why the international community refuses to recognise Afghanistan's new rulers, cutting off billions of dollars in aid and exacerbating an economic crisis.

Senior officials at several ministries said that policies regarding women were set by top leaders and declined to comment further. The Taliban leadership has said all Afghans' rights will be protected within their interpretation of sharia.

Rights groups and foreign governments have also blamed the group for abuses and thousands of civilian deaths while fighting an insurgency against U.S.-led foreign troops and Afghan forces between 2001 and 2021.

The Taliban said they were resisting foreign occupation, and since returning to power have vowed not to pursue vendettas against former enemies. In cases where reprisals were reported, officials said last year they would investigate.

Afghanistan remains the only country in the world where girls are banned from going to high school.

In March, the group announced that female secondary schools would reopen, only to reverse its decision on the very morning that many girls had turned up excitedly for school.

Some have managed to enrol for private tutorials or online classes to continue their education.

"We are hopeful about schools reopening," said Kerishma Rasheedi, 16, who started private tuition as a temporary measure. She wants to leave the country with her parents so that she can return to school if they remain shut in Afghanistan.

"I will never stop studying," said Rasheedi. She moved to Kabul with her family from the northeastern province of Kunduz after their house there was hit by rockets during clashes in 2020.

The international community continues to advocate for female rights and leadership roles for women in public and political life. Some women said they have had to accept the new norms in order to make ends meet.

Gulestan Safari, a former female police officer, was forced to change her career after the Taliban stopped her from entering the police department.

Safari, 45, now carries out domestic chores for other families in Kabul.

"I loved my job ... we could afford to buy everything we wanted; we could buy meat, fruit."

(Writing by Rupam Jain; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Susan Fenton)
Aug. 9TAMAQUA  Tamaqua police have filed additional charges against a Mount Carmel contractor.

Police said Thomas J. Anello, 52, of 129 W. Girard St., was charged with theft, theft by deception, false statements to induce an agreement for home improvements and receiving advance payment for services and failing to provide the services.

Police said Anello received $675 from a borough resident for construction work at 127 Market St. and failed to perform the work or return the money.

Police said that resident Tony Lanzalotti reported he hired Anello to work on his deck at a cost of $1,850 and that the work was done poorly.

On the second job, Lanzalotti paid the defendant $675 for work to be performed under the deck, but that work was never completed, Lanzalotti said.

Anello was charged earlier for receiving almost $50,000 from a woman for a construction project that he allegedly failed to complete in the Owl Creek section of the borough.

In that case, Anello was charged with one count each of theft by deception, false statements to induce agreement for home improvement and receiving advance payment for services and failing to provide the services.

Police said that, through his business, Xtreme Design LLC, Anello entered a contract with the woman for more than $80,000 and received a check for $48,285.82.

Police said the check from the woman was designated to cover materials for the project that Anello failed to complete.

The alleged victim reported to police that Anello dug a trench to begin placing footers but abruptly stopped working.

According to police, Lanzalotti came forward with his complaint after reading about Anello failing to do work in Owl Creek.

All the charges were filed with Magisterial District Judge Stephen J. Bayer, Tamaqua.

A preliminary hearing for Anello has been scheduled for 9:40 a.m. Sept. 13 before Bayer, according to court documents.
Ten civilians, including four security auxiliaries, have been killed by suspected jihadists in northern Burkina Faso, a security source said on Tuesday.

Six civilians and four members of the VDP auxiliary force died on Monday in an attack in Sima, in Yatenga province, the source said, adding that "several" others were wounded.

The assailants withdrew after reinforcements and air support arrived, another security official said.

A member of the VDP -- the Volunteers for the Defence of the Fatherland -- confirmed the attack but gave no toll.

"Several volunteers are listed as missing," this source said.

The landlocked Sahel state is wrestling with a seven-year-old jihadist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives and driven some two million people from their homes.

More than 40 percent of the country is no longer under government control, according to official figures.

Burkina's elected president, Roch Marc Christian Kabore, was overthrown in January by colonels angered at failures to stem the bloodshed.

After a lull, attacks resumed and have escalated in recent months.

On June 11, 86 people were massacred at Seytenga in the northwest, in one of the bloodiest acts of the long-running insurgency.

Thirty-four villagers were killed on July 2-3 in the north and northwest.

Set up in December 2019, the VDP comprises civilian volunteers who are given two weeks' military training and then work alongside the army, typically carrying out surveillance, information-gathering or escort duties.

The force has paid a high price. Last Thursday, nine volunteers and four soldiers were killed in Bourzanga, also in the north of the country.

In June, military commanders said the VDP would be reorganised so that it would be "completely integrated into the military and security structure deployed for fighting terrorism."

ab/stb/ri/kjm
KCRA - Sacramento Videos

A man convicted in 2010 for the torture and imprisonment of a teenage boy in Tracy will have to wait several more months before finding out if he'll be set free. Anthony Waiters was granted parole back in March. However, the Board of Parole, after taking a second look, approved on Tuesday what's called a "rescission hearing." According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, "The purpose of a rescission hearing is to evaluate new information or a fundamental error committed by the granting panel that may indicate that a grant of parole was improper.
STORY: Earlier on Tuesday, Israeli security forces killed Ibrahim al-Nabulsi in armed clashes, during which another gunman was also killed, witnesses and the Israeli military said.

They added Israeli forces surrounded the house of al-Nabulsi, calling him to exit.

Al-Nabulsi, barricaded inside with other militants, refused to surrender and a gun battle followed with Israeli forces also using shoulder-fired missiles in the fighting.

Palestinian health officials confirmed al-Nabulsi and another militant were killed and said 40 more people were injured, many in confrontations that erupted following the shoot-out. There were no reports of Israeli casualties.

The deadly clash, in the northern West Bank city of Nablus, came less than two days after Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group ended three days of fighting in Gaza - the worst flare-up since May 2021, with their truce largely holding.
Timo Werner is expected to complete his 25million return to RB Leipzig without any issues.

Werner has been in Germany to put the finishing touches to his move back to the club he left for Chelsea in 2020.

The Germany forward is understood to be just formalities away from completing his move back to Leipzig, after two years in west London.

Chelsea paid 54million for Werner in 2020, with the 26-year-old playing a pivotal role in the Blues Champions League triumph in Lisbon in 2021.

Werner has found favour with Chelsea fans for his tireless effort and determination to thrive with the Blues.

But the pacy forward was never able to transfer his scoring feats from German football into the Premier League.

Blues boss Thomas Tuchel and his staff are understood to have never quite been able to determine Werners best role in the German boss tactical blueprint.

Werner himself is also thought to have been left frustrated by that disconnect, and those difficulties are understood to have sparked his move back to Germany.

The transfer fee for Werner represents a clear loss for Chelsea, but the Blues will expect that figure to rise given agreed add-ons to the deal.

Werner was understood to rank among Chelseas highest wage earners too, and his departure will free up funds to be redistributed elsewhere.

New owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital have once again shown their desire to ensure players do not remain at Chelsea while unhappy or failing to fulfil their potential.

The decision to cut losses on Romelu Lukaku and allow him to return to Inter Milan on loan, coupled with a similar call on Werner, again indicates the new Blues owners determination to move the squad forward quickly.

Chelsea have already conducted brisk transfer business to bring in the likes of Raheem Sterling, Kalidou Koulibaly, Carney Chukwuemeka and Marc Cucurella.

But the Blues still need further reinforcements and continue to push hard to pull off yet more deals.

Talks are thought to be continuing on a possible deal for Leicesters Wesley Fofana, with Barcelonas Frenkie De Jong another potential arrival.

Werners departure further opens the door for an arrival up front, with Chelsea continuing to weigh up a move for Barcelonas Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Blues boss Tuchel coached the former Arsenal striker at Borussia Dortmund and is thought to be open to a reunion at Stamford Bridge.
Donald Trump could be legally disqualified from holding office again if he is convicted of unlawfully taking or destroying government records from the White House, a Democrat elections lawyer has noted following the FBIs raid of his property.

The former president on Monday said his Mar-a-Lago home is under siege and raided by a large group of FBI agents who broke into my safe.

Nothing like this has ever happened to a president of the United States before. After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, he said in a statement.

Marc Elias, a leading Democratic elections lawyer who served as general counsel for Hilary Clintons campaign, noted in a tweet that the FBI raid would potentially turn out to be a blockbuster in American politics.

He referred to Section 2071 of Title 18 of the United States Code which makes it illegal if someone with custody of confidential government records willfully and unlawfully conceals, removes, mutilates, obliterates, falsifies or destroys them.

The code states the person shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both; and shall forfeit his office and be disqualified from holding any office under the United States.

In another tweet, he acknowledged that convicting Mr Trump under Section 2071 might not ultimately disqualify him from seeking the presidency again, but the idea that he would have to litigate it during the campaign is important.

The media is missing the really, really big reason why the raid today is a potential blockbuster in American politics. pic.twitter.com/3BdI9NA9Az  Marc E. Elias (@marceelias) August 9, 2022

Yes, I recognize the legal challenge that application of this law to a president would garner (since qualifications are set in Constitution), he said. But the idea that a candidate would have to litigate this during a campaign is in my view a blockbuster in American politics.

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The dramatic escalation of law enforcement scrutiny over Mr Trump comes as he is gearing up for a possible run for the 2024 presidential elections.

Convictions under the section were earlier hotly discussed by legal experts and lawmakers during Hilary Clintons 2016 Democratic presidential nomination over allegations that she erased material from a private email server she used during her tenure as secretary of state.

But several legal scholars underscored that the Supreme Court ruling suggests Congress cannot change the eligibility criteria for who can be president. They noted that the Constitution allows Congress to disqualify people from holding office if impeachment proceedings are being carried out but they cannot be barred from holding office for criminal law.

Former federal prosecutor Harry Litman also put his weight behind Mr Elias and said he made a huge point.

The records provision theyre investigating carries the penalty that someone convicted shall forfeit his office and be disqualified from holding any office under the United States. So this could be the whole enchilada in terms of DOJ resolution, he said.

The speculation has come after images obtained for an upcoming book on the Trump presidency appear to show shredded documents floating in toilets, a possible evidence into claims that Mr Trump tried to destroy presidential paperwork by flushing it away.

The photos, shared by New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman and published by Axios, showed torn fragments of handwritten documents floating in two separate toilets, one in the White House and the other in an unspecified location visited by Mr Trump on an overseas trip.

A source close to Mr Trump told The Independent that he was not present at his Florida residence at the time of the raid.

Eric Trump, the second-oldest son of the former president, told Fox News that the search warrant at the Mar-a-Lago estate was in relation to an investigation into the handling of National Archives records.

The agency in February asked the Justice Department to investigate Mr Trump after they retrieved 15 boxes from Mar-a-Lago. Officials said the president violated laws by ripping up many documents and several others were taped back together.
Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

The FBI searched former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home on Monday, sparking a firestorm.

Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump took to Twitter and Fox News to denounce the search.

Melania, Ivanka, and Tiffany Trump have not made public statements.

Members of the Trump family took to Twitter and Fox News in response to the FBI's search of former president Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home on Monday.

Donald Trump Jr. retweeted his father's statement, which was originally posted on Truth Social and shared to Twitter by Trump's director of communications since the former president remains banned from Twitter.

"Biden's out of control DOJ is ripping this country apart with how they're openly targeting their political enemies," Trump Jr. wrote. "This is what you see happen in 3rd World Banana Republics!!!"

Trump Jr.'s fiancee and MAGA finance chair Kimberly Guilfoyle also denounced the search on Twitter.

"The FBI raid of Mar-a-Lago is a continuation of the left's endless & unlawful persecution of President Trump," she wrote. "The failed Biden Regime will do anything to try to distract the American people from the fact that their policies are DESTROYING our nation."

White House officials said the Biden White House was unaware that the FBI was going to search Trump's Mar-a-Lago home until the former president announced it on social media, Insider's Lauren Frias reported.

Meanwhile, Eric and Lara Trump made appearances on Fox News.

Eric told host Sean Hannity on Monday night that he was the "guy who got the call" that the FBI was executing a search warrant at Mar-a-Lago. He labeled action "political persecution."

"Every day, we get another subpoena," Eric said. "That's what this is about today, to have 30 FBI agents  actually, more than that  descend on Mar-a-Lago give absolutely no notice. Go through the gate, start ransacking an office, ransacking a closet. You know, they broke into a safe. He didn't even have anything in the safe. I mean, give me a break."

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Lara Trump, a contributor at Fox News, accused the Department of Justice of "weaponizing the justice system."

"They are terrified he's going to announce any day that he's running for president in 2024," she said on "Tucker Carlson Tonight." "This is a very convenient way to just throw a little more mud on Donald Trump as though they haven't already done enough."

It remains unclear what the FBI search was specifically related to, though three sources told CNN it was related to documents that may have been improperly taken to Mar-a-Lago.

The National Archives asked the DOJ in February to investigate whether or not Trump broke the law by taking government records from the White House to his Florida residence, Insider's Grace Panetta and Sonam Sheth reported.

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner have not made any public statements about the FBI's search of Mar-a-Lago. They were spotted a few hours after the news broke having dinner in Rochester, Minnesota, CBS News Minnesota reported. Melania and Tiffany Trump also have not spoken publicly about the search.

Read the original article on Insider
Supply-demand matchmaking meeting held ahead of 5th CIIE in Shanghai

Xinhua) 08:20, August 09, 2022

A robot for epidemic control purpose is displayed outside the venue of a pre-expo supply-demand matchmaking meeting for the Intelligent Industry &Information Technology Exhibition Area of the fifth China International Import Expo (CIIE) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in east China's Shanghai, Aug. 8, 2022. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

People have a discussion while attending a pre-expo supply-demand matchmaking meeting for the Intelligent Industry &Information Technology Exhibition Area of the fifth China International Import Expo (CIIE) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in east China's Shanghai, Aug. 8, 2022. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

An exhibitor (2nd L, front) negotiates with potential buyers while attending a pre-expo supply-demand matchmaking meeting for the Intelligent Industry &Information Technology Exhibition Area of the fifth China International Import Expo (CIIE) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in east China's Shanghai, Aug. 8, 2022. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

Visitors look at a bulletin board showing a list of potential buyers during a pre-expo supply-demand matchmaking meeting for the Intelligent Industry &Information Technology Exhibition Area of the fifth China International Import Expo (CIIE) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in east China's Shanghai, Aug. 8, 2022. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Federal investigators have seized documents from Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, according to two sources familiar with the matter, the latest indication of a sharply intensifying criminal investigation by the US justice department into his affairs.

The FBI executed a search warrant at around 9am on Monday morning at Trumps residence, the sources said, as part of an ongoing investigation examining the former presidents potentially unlawful removal and destruction of White House records after he left office last year.

Related: Photos suggest Trump blocked toilets with ripped-up White House documents

The move by the justice department to search Mar-a-Lago over the removal of 15 boxes of presidential records from the White House, including classified documents, as well as the destruction of other materials, marks a dramatic escalation in the inquiry.

My beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, Trump said in a bitter statement on Monday evening, adding: They even broke into my safe!

Trump has previously come under scrutiny for his flagrant violations of the Presidential Records Act of 1978  mandating the preservation of White House documents  but the search for the first time, appears to indicate potential legal jeopardy for Trump over his records practices.

The statute governing the wilful and unlawful removal or destruction of presidential records, though rarely enforced, carries significant penalties including: fines, imprisonment and, most notably, disqualification from holding current or future office.

A spokesperson for the justice department declined to comment.

Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida. Photograph: Marco Bello/Reuters

The former president was not at Mar-a-Lago at the time of the raid and was at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, over the weekend, one of the sources said. By the time Trump issued the statement, suggesting the raid was ongoing, the FBI had already left the property.

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During his presidency, Mar-a-Lago was known as Trumps winter White House. Trump and his wife, Melania, returned to the Florida resort after leaving Washington and since then, the president has made it the center of his political dealings.

The raid comes as Trump has been laying the foundations for another presidential run in 2024, and in the wake of a series of damning public hearings that laid out his and his allies roles in the events leading up to the Capitol attack last year.

In a furious statement, Trump compared the FBI raid to Watergate and sought to blame it on Radical Left Democrats who he said desperately dont want me to run for president in 2024  who will do anything to stop Republicans and Conservatives in the upcoming midterms elections.

The FBI is headed by Christopher Wray, who was appointed by Trump before he left office.

The justice department has been quietly examining the prospect of opening a criminal investigation into the matter of Trumps removal of documents since at least April, according to a source with knowledge of the inquiry.

The National Archives and Records Administration transferred records in January from the Trump White House to the House January 6 committee. Photograph: Erin Scott/Reuters

In January, as the National Archives and Records Administration (Nara) prepared to transfer records from the Trump White House to the House select committee investigating January 6, it found about 15 boxes worth of materials had been improperly taken to Mar-a-Lago.

The records were eventually returned to Nara after negotiations with Trumps lawyers  only for officials to then discover that the former president had taken with him some documents clearly marked as classified and sensitive for national security.

Also in the boxes: a letter left for Trump by his predecessor as president, Barack Obama, love letters from Kim Jong-un of North Korea, and a model of Air Force One with red-white-and-blue livery Trump chose but was scrapped by the Biden administration.

Because Nara identified classified information in the boxes, the chief archivist David Ferriero said in a letter to Congress at the time, Nara staff has been in communication with the Department of Justice.

The saga also prompted the House oversight committee, led by Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, to open a separate investigation that noted removing or concealing government records is a criminal offense. Trump must be held accountable, the New York Democrat said.

The news appeared set to inflame Trump supporters and add fuel to Republican claims that the former president is being unfairly targeted. A small group of Trump supporters were seen gathering outside Mar-a-Lago on Monday evening after the news broke, according to the Palm Beach post.
A Lake County woman says shes facing a $500 fine after she tried to rescue a dog.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

Hunter File says she was just trying to do the right thing when she was on her way to Publix on the fourth of July and saw a dog in the middle of the road.

READ: Trump says FBI conducting search of Mar-a-Lago estate

Theres no way you could just leave a dog, File said.

The mother of three says she took the dog home for the night, but wasnt able to keep it.

I ended up contacting Lake County Animal Services and they would not pick the dog up because I found the dog in Orange County, File said.

File says she attempted to contact Orange County Animal Services, but they took several days just to call her back.

When another attempt to meet with representatives of the Orange County Shelter fell through, File says she posted the lost dog to Facebook then took it back to the Lake County Shelter, closer to where she lives.

READ: Florida AG, Melbourne police bust statewide retail theft ring

We live so close to the border of Orange County and Lake County, File said. Lake County is closest to me. Thats what seemed natural to me.

Days later, File was slapped with a $500 fine due to her providing false information to animal control about where the dog was found.

I was just trying to be a good citizen and turn a dog in to a shelter conveniently located to me.

File admits she lied on the intake form and said the dog was found in Lake County.

When asked how they learned File had lied, Animal Services released a statement saying, Without discussing details, we have a good relationship with law enforcement.

READ: Universal CityWalk implements weekend curfew for minors

The shelter wouldnt say how often they issue similar fines.

File has a hearing scheduled for September 1st, unless she decides to pay the fine before that.

Click here for the GoFundMe page.

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.




(Bloomberg) -- A fire broke out at an air base in Russian-occupied Crimea, with at least one fatality reported. Russias Defense Ministry said munitions had exploded and the fire wasnt caused by an incoming strike.

Most Read from Bloomberg

But some defense analysts said it had the hallmarks of a Ukrainian attack. While Ukrainian officials didnt explicitly claim an attack on the base, they issued fresh vows to regain Ukraine. An adviser to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy tweeted it is just the beginning.

In Washington, President Joe Biden signed Senate-approved protocols for Finland and Sweden to join NATO, as expansion of the military alliance awaits the required approval of all existing members.

Russian crude flows through Ukraine to Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic were halted because sanctions prevented payment of a transit fee, dealing a fresh blow to Europes energy security.

(See RSAN on the Bloomberg Terminal for the Russian Sanctions Dashboard.)

Key Developments

Russia Is Scouring the Globe for Weapons to Use in Ukraine

Russian Oil Flow Halted Through Pipeline to Central Europe

Roman Abramovichs London Empire Unravels as Sanctions Bite

Russia Temporarily Halts US Inspections Under New START Treaty

US to Help Clear Deadly Mines in Ukraine With $89 Million in Aid

The US-Led Drive to Isolate Russia and China Is Falling Short

On the Ground

Amid continuing safety concerns around the nuclear power plant at Zaporizhzhia -- the worlds largest -- the Institute for the Study of War said that Russian forces have dug trenches in and around the facility. Kremlin officials have accused Ukraine of repeatedly attacking the plant, while Ukrainian officials have said that Russian forces are attacking their positions from within it. Russia denied a Ukrainian strike caused the fire at a base in Russian-occupied Crimea. Russian forces continued ground assaults to the northwest and southwest of the eastern city of Donetsk, the Washington-based institute said. The city of Kharkiv in the northeast was shelled overnight, according to local authorities.

Story continues

(All times CET)

Biden Signs Senate Measure to Add Finland, Sweden to NATO (8:49 p.m.)

Biden said the US and allies would remain vigilant against any threats to our shared security and confront any aggression or threat of aggression that might come up as he signed Senate-approved NATO accession protocols for Finland and Sweden.

The decision of the Nordic countries to apply was a watershed moment, I believe, in the alliance and for the greater security and stability, not only of Europe and the United States, but of the world, Biden said at the White House.

He urged other NATO countries to finish their ratification process as quickly as possible. Russia has denounced the effort by the traditionally neutral Finland and Sweden as destabilizing to the region.

US to Help Clear Mines in Ukraine With $89 Million in Aid (8:44 p.m.)

The US government is committing $89 million to assist Ukraine in clearing land mines and other unexploded ordnance scattered through through the country since Russias invasion, a State Department official said Tuesday.

The funds will go to nongovernmental organizations and entities to support the creation of 100 mine-removal teams to augment Ukraines existing efforts, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity in advance of a department announcement.

Read the story here.

Crimeas Leader Says Fire at Base Has Been Contained (8:10 p.m.)

Sergei Aksyonov, the head of Russian-occupied Crimea, says the fire at an air base there has been contained, according to Tass, Russias state-run news service.

Tass earlier reported that at least one person had died in the incident, with others injured, and cited an unidentified person in the Russian Defense Ministry as saying that the blaze occurred due to a breach of fire-safety regulations. The Defense Ministry previously said munitions had exploded and the fire wasnt caused by an incoming strike.

While Ukraine was yet to formally comment on the cause of the Crimea blast, several defense analysts, including University of St. Andrews professor of strategic studies Phillips OBrien, said on Twitter that it had the hallmarks of a Ukrainian strike.

Russia Scours Globe for Weapons as Supply Lines Strain (4:45 p.m.)

A merchant ship under US sanctions passed Turkeys Bosphorus Strait on its way from Syria to Russia late last month, carrying what European intelligence officials say were military vehicles as the Kremlin seeks to bolster its invasion of Ukraine.

The Sparta IIs journey to the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk underlines Russian efforts to tap available resources at home and abroad as supply lines strain under the pressure of Europes largest military campaign since World War II. While Ukraine has received billions of dollars of weapons from the US and Europe to help defend itself, Russia must rely on its own reserves to support frontline forces.

Read more: Russia Is Scouring the Globe for Weapons to Use in Ukraine

Russia Says Ammunition Explodes at Crimean Air Base (4:30 p.m.)

Russias Defense Ministry said munitions exploded at a military air base in Crimea, without causing any casualties or damage to aviation equipment.

The ministry said its investigating the incident, which it said wasnt caused by an incoming strike, the Tass state news service reported. Videos of explosions and large plumes of smoke were shared on social media, prompting speculation of a Ukrainian missile strike.

Local officials in Crimea, which Russia annexed from Ukraine in 2014 and is being used as a base for the invasion of the neighboring country, said they ordered a 5-kilometer (3.1 mile) exclusion zone around the air base.

Russia More Than Triples Current-Account Surplus (4 p.m.)

Russias current-account surplus more than tripled from last year after notching record levels since the invasion of Ukraine, as declines in imports combined with booming revenues from energy and commodity sales abroad.

Russian Crude Flows Halted to Central Europe (1 p.m.)

Flows of Russian crude oil via Ukraine to Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic were halted last week after sanctions prevented Russia from paying a transit fee, according to the nations pipeline operator Transneft PJSC.

Ukrtransnafta, which operates Ukraines oil pipeline network and supplies crude via the southern leg of the Druzhba link, halted Russian deliveries on Aug. 4, Transneft said. Flows via the northern leg of the link to Poland and Germany are unaffected.

Wizz Air to Resume Russia Flights (12:30 p.m.)

Hungarian discount carrier Wizz Air Holdings Plcs Gulf venture said it plans to resume daily flights to Moscow from Abu Dhabi from Oct. 3 even as sanctions imposed over the invasion of Ukraine continue to outlaw services from the European Union.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi is majority owned by Abu Dhabis state-backed holding company ADQ, with Wizz owning only a 49% stake. Airlines in the UAE have continued services to Russia in the absence of local sanctions, with Dubai-based Emirates, the worlds largest long-haul airline, pledging to carry on flying there for as long as it is told to do so by its government owner.

North Korea May Send Laborers to Ukraine (12 p.m.)

Denis Pushilin, head of the self-declared Donetsk peoples republic in eastern Ukraine, said hes expecting North Korea to send construction workers to territories occupied by Russia. We need builders. We are in talks to have workers from North Korea, Pushilin said, according to Russian state media.

North Korea announced last month it was recognizing the Kremlin-backed Donetsk and Luhansk peoples republics, following a similar move by Russian President Vladimir Putin in February. Russia is preparing to stage referendums there as soon as next month as a potential pretext for annexation.

Russia May Give Up Majority in Development Bank (10 a.m.)

Russia plans to give up its majority stake in Eurasian Development Bank, formed by six former Soviet states to promote economic integration, to reduce the risk the lender will be targeted by sanctions, according to three people with knowledge of the plan.

Russia, which holds 65.97% in the bank, wants to reduce its combined stake with Belarus to less than half, according to the people, who asked not to be identified because the plans are not public. Kazakhstan may end up as controlling shareholder if a deal goes through, two of the people said. Russia was hit with restrictions on financing, imports and technology after it invaded Ukraine, and authorities are seeking to further fortify the countrys institutions from additional measures.

Russian Casualties As Many as 80,000 (9:30 a.m.)

Colin Kahl, US under secretary of defense for policy, said that as many as 80,000 Russian troops have probably been killed or wounded in Ukraine in less than six months. Russia last published information on casualties in late March, when it said 1,351 had been killed and 3,825 wounded.

Conditions in the east have stabilized and the focus has shifted to the south, leading to Russia being forced to redeploy their forces down there, Kahl said Monday at a news conference. Both sides are taking casualties, the war is the most intense conventional conflict in Europe since the Second World War, but the Ukrainians have a lot of advantages, not the least of which their will to fight, he added, according to a transcript.

EU Condemns Russian Actions Near Nuclear Plant (9 a.m.)

Shelling at and around the Zaporizhzhia plant has caused significant damage to some of its infrastructure, including close to dry storage for spent nuclear fuel inside the plants perimeter, European Union Energy Commission Kadri Simson said, condemning Russian forces for what she called reckless behavior.

Simson said the EUs radioactivity monitoring systems dont indicate any increase of radiation in the bloc or Ukraine, but said any military activity near the plant is unacceptably dangerous.

Nordic Trio to Monitor Russia in Baltic (9 a.m.)

Denmark, Norway and Sweden agreed to jointly patrol their airspace and increase sharing of naval radar images to counter aggressive Russian behavior in the Baltic Sea, Denmarks public broadcaster DR cited the Nordic nations defense ministers as saying.

The closer coordination is intended to address regular violations by Russian military aircraft and vessels in the region. Denmarks defense minister, Morten Bodskov, cited an episode from June 17 when a Russian warship twice entered Danish waters near its Bornholm island, according to DR.

Two Grain Ships Depart From Chernomorsk (7:45 a.m.)

Two grain ships departed from Ukraines Chernomorsk Tuesday morning, Turkeys defense ministry said in a tweet, the latest to leave under the newly-established export corridor.

The Ocean Lion is carrying 64,720 tons of corn to South Korea while the Rahmi Yagci is carrying 5,300 tons of sunflower meal to Turkey, the ministry said. The shipments may gradually bring relief to squeezed global markets, but many challenges remain before the millions of tons of food still stuck in Ukraine can be released.

US Gets Warrant to Seize Russians Plane (9 p.m.)

The US got a warrant to seize a $90 million private Airbus plane owned by a member of the Russian Duma who allegedly has ties to organized crime.

A judge on Monday signed a warrant permitting officials to seize the plane belonging to Andrey Skoch, according to a statement by Manhattan US Attorney Damian Williams. The plane is currently located in Kazakhstan, according to legal papers.

US Providing $4.5 Billion More Budget Aid (7:48 p.m.)

The US is providing Ukraine an additional $4.5 billion in direct budgetary support, using a World Bank-managed program to mobilize the funds. The first $3 billion will be distributed this month, and is the fifth US disbursement to the Ukrainian government, the US Treasury said in a statement.

This economic assistance is critical in supporting the Ukrainian people as they defend their democracy against Russias unprovoked war of aggression, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said. Once the additional funds are fully disbursed, the US will have provided a total $8.5 billion in direct budgetary support to Ukraine.

Russia Temporarily Halts Nuclear Inspections (7:21 p.m.)

Russia said it has informed the US that it is halting American inspections of its nuclear weapons sites under the New START treaty in protest at what it described as efforts by Washington to maintain unequal access.

The Foreign Ministry in Moscow said the ban on flights from Russia to the US and allied countries and visa restrictions for transit countries meant that Russian inspectors are unable to travel to the US, while American inspections are proceeding unhindered. We would like to stress that these are temporary measures, the ministry said in a statement on its website.

US Giving $1 Billion More in Weapons (7:20 p.m.)

The US package includes long-range artillery munitions, anti-tank weapons and medical vehicles and supplies, the Defense Department said in a statement.

Its the 18th drawdown of Pentagon inventories since August 2021 and brings the total of US security assistance to Ukraine under the Biden administration to about $9.8 billion.

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It's been four months since the Biden administration announced plans to welcome 100,000 Ukrainian refugees to America. Since then, many arrived in Middle Tennessee. A lack of benefits  plus waiting on employment authorization  has left many in limbo, struggling to build a new life. "They don't have the right to work off the bat; they have to apply, and so there's a huge backlog in the U.S. immigration service to authorize work documents," said Max Rykov, director of development and communications at the Nashville International Center for Empowerment.
While investigators said they will release more information on the deadly neighborhood attacks that took place in Butler Township within the next few days, the question of why they took place may take longer to answer.

Psychologist Dr. Kathy Platoni sat with News Center 7s Mike Campbell going through the document left behind by the accused shooter.

His thoughts were very disturbing, very distorted and not based in reality, Platoni said.

Platoni said her reading of Stephen Marlows writings seem to indicate an extreme level of paranoia.

>> Affidavit: Butler Twp. shooting suspect believed neighbors were sleeper cell terrorists

He indicated his neighbors and even people he drove beside on the highways could exhibit mind control over him.

This is all based on delusions and hallucinations and an apparent break with reality, where unreality became his reality, Platoni said.

Platoni said the problem began when Marlow became convinced that his neighbors purposely exhibited mind control over him, referring to those neighbors as terrorists.

She said that based on the manifesto Marlow believes that he knows something that the rest of the world doesnt, and believes he is saving us from ourselves.

Of course, it is not based in any sort of reality, your neighbors are not part of a terrorist cell, she said.

Marlow claimed he sent his writings and conclusions he reached to several FBI field offices outside our area, and to the CIA.

Marlow was convicted in 2019 for threatening a friend with a gun, accusing him of being a part of a conspiracy against him.

>> RELATED: Butler Twp. shooting suspect to remain jailed in Kansas; Second court appearance scheduled

Platoni said we all have to report any troubling activity we see or hear.

Its so important to call authorities, call the family, to not keep this a secret, she said.

Butler Township officers will go to Kansas where Marlow was captured and bring him back to Ohio.

This could happen sometime this week if he waives his extradition hearing Wednesday.

If not, it will be a longer legal process before he is ordered back to Ohio.




The State Department announced Tuesday it will provide $89 million to help demining efforts in Ukraine, comparing the scale of unexploded ordnances Russia left behind to tactics ISIS employed in Syria.

The funding will help set up 100 teams that can defuse and dispose of unexploded ordnances that cover an area of 160,000 square kilometers (nearly 62,000 square miles), roughly the size of Virginia, Maryland, and Connecticut combined.

Russias unlawful and unprovoked further invasion of Ukraine has littered massive swaths of the country with landmines, unexploded ordnance, and improvised explosive devices, the State Department said in a statement.

The grotesque use of improvised explosive devices in the manner that we are seeing in Ukraine by Russian actors was previously only associated with ISIS in Syria, it added.

The demining assistance follows an announcement Monday that the U.S. is providing $1 billion in military equipment to Ukraine, the 18th drawdown of aid and the largest package to be delivered so far, as well as $4.5 billion in economic assistance.

The $89 million in funding will also support a large-scale train and equip project to demine and dispose of explosive ordinances that are in civilian areas such as farmland and that block reconstruction efforts or prevent people from returning to their homes.

The State Department said that the remaining mines continue to kill and maim innocent Ukrainian civilians.

In March, Ukrainian Interior Minister Denys Monastyrsky told The Associated Press that it would take years to defuse and dispose of unexploded ordnances left behind by Russias invasion, including unexploded shells and mines and that also get trapped under the rubble of destroyed buildings.

The U.S. announcement follows an intelligence assessment by the United Kingdoms Ministry of Defence on Monday that Russia is likely deploying anti-personnel mines in Ukraines eastern Donbas region. Called butterfly mines, they allegedly maimed high numbers of children in Afghanistan during the Soviet-Afghan war between 1979 and 1989.

The intelligence update said that the Russians are likely deploying the mines to restrict freedom of movement along its defensive lines in Donbas and that the mines are deeply controversial and maim indiscriminately.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
TheStreet.com

Elon Musk does not hide it: He will wield his media influence and financial power in the midterm elections in November and the race for the White House leading to November 2024. Tesla's charismatic and whimsical chief executive has more than 103.3 million Twitter followers, giving him a massive platform and megaphone to sway public opinion and influence potential voters. The serial entrepreneur's fortune is estimated at $268 billion as of Aug. 15, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.
At least five times this year, LAPD officers have opened fire on people holding something other than a gun or knife: a butane lighter, a car part, a cellphone. In four of those cases, police pursued weapons charges. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

After Joshua Hatfield fled a traffic stop in late June, a police officer thought the 28-year-old was armed and shot at him outside an apartment building. But no gun was found at the scene.

In the case of Jermaine Petit, officers responding to a report of a man with a gun encountered the 39-year-old walking through Leimert Park. Believing the object in his hand to be a gun, police opened fire. Petit was holding a car part.

After both shootings, Los Angeles police acknowledged neither man had a gun. Yet the department pressed ahead with weapons cases against them: Petit for carrying an imitation firearm and Hatfield on suspicion of assaulting an officer with a deadly weapon.

The district attorneys office declined to file charges against Hatfield. Police said the case against Petit is pending. An LAPD spokeswoman said last week that she couldn't comment on either case because both remain under investigation.

The decision to push for charges against Petit and Hatfield has drawn condemnations from neighbors, activists and academics, who see the department's response as an attempt to deflect scrutiny from its officers' actions. At least five times this year, LAPD officers have opened fire on people holding something other than a gun or knife: a butane lighter, a car part, a cellphone. In four of those cases, police pursued weapons charges.

Even if the cases are eventually dropped, the LAPDs decision to pursue charges against the two men is problematic, said Laurie Levenson, a professor at Loyola Law School.

While it might seem reasonable for an officer to mistake an object for a gun during a fast-moving encounter, for the department to insist on charging an apparently unarmed person after the fact could be seen as trying to defend themselves in the court of public opinion or against any future actions that might come, she said.

One possible explanation for the charges is that LAPD officials felt that pursuing the cases would provide them with cover, at least in the eyes of the rank-and-file, said Levenson, who is not familiar with the specifics of either incident. A more cynical interpretation, she said, is that police pushed for prosecuting the men in an effort to limit officers' liability in future lawsuits.

Story continues

It is not unheard of for the LAPD to submit cases to the district attorney against people who have been shot by officers, particularly in incidents involving individuals with guns who point or fire at police.

But attorney DeWitt Lacy said that, in his years of pursuing civil rights cases, he has often come up against the practice by law enforcement agencies of trying to vilify and discredit victims of police violence to justify the use of force.

At the same time, he added, officers who use deadly force sometimes escape scrutiny that suspects face, "particularly when theyre poor and Black and theres any type of criminal activity involved in the contact."

Petit was shot on the evening of July 18 while walking in the area of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and South Bronson Avenue, around the corner from a relative's house.

At a news conference later that night, an LAPD spokesman said Petit was carrying a weapon when police responded to a call about a man with a gun. At a Police Commission meeting the next day, LAPD Chief Michel Moore clarified that Petit was carrying an auto part known as a latch actuator."

The case has received widespread attention on social media, where commenters have questioned how officers could mistake the actuator for a weapon and why police were slow to acknowledge that Petit was not armed.

That frustration came to a boil at a virtual community meeting on July 28, which was cut short after audience members called out a police captain who referred to the actuator as a nonfunctioning firearm," according to a report by the news site StreetsBlog LA.

In an interview, LAPD spokeswoman Capt. Kelly Muniz clarified that the meeting was intended as briefing, and not a Q&A session. Because of an ongoing internal investigation, she said, police were limited in what they could say publicly. Regarding the department's inconsistent messaging about the incident, she said, "the bottom line is that whatever goes into that news release [after Petit's shooting] is the departments stance."

Weve acknowledged that is not a firearm," Muniz said of the auto part. "We cannot say what the officers perceived it as. ... It is true that it is not uncommon for suspects to be armed, and, in the process of evading police, they're able to dispose of or hide a weapon that we can't find."

Muniz said the comments made to reporters the night of the shooting were based on preliminary information provided by officers at the scene and that the department releases new information as it becomes aware of it.

Pastor Eddie Anderson said such episodes continue to undermine public confidence in the department and call into question  in his mind  how much law enforcement has really changed since the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

Weve changed the laws or tried to change the laws around excessive force," said Anderson, who is affiliated with McCarty Memorial Christian Church in West Adams. "Its just another case in point where officers shoot first and then ask questions later."

That, he said, "makes them more of a threat to the community than a safety net."

Petit remains in critical condition at a hospital, his relatives have said in news interviews. Attempts to reach his daughter through a GoFundMe page started to cover his medical expenses were unsuccessful.

Alixx Robin Lucas, who lives near the shooting scene, said the incident jolted the Leimert Park neighborhood, long considered a cultural hub for Black culture and a bastion of anti-police-violence activism.

People are angry, theyre upset, but theyre also, I think, unsurprised, said Lucas, who saw the aftermath of the shooting. And thats probably the saddest part of it all, its like, 'Oh again.

As in Petit's case, a police investigation found that Hatfield was not armed when an officer opened fire on him June 23.

According to video of Hatfield's shooting released last week, officers pulled him over for allegedly speeding near Crenshaw Boulevard and 39th Street. The officers then ordered Hatfield to lower his car windows. Instead, he drove off, according to dashboard and body camera video posted to the LAPDs YouTube channel July 28.

The two LAPD officers were identified as Justin Freund and Jennifer Alvarez.

Freund and Alvarez didn't chase the fleeing car. They found it after about two minutes of driving around. It was parked in the driveway of an apartment building a short distance away, police said.

Another video, from Alvarezs body camera, showed the officers pulling up to the driveway. Freund is seen running toward Hatfield, whos standing between several parked cars. Freund demanded Hatfield put his hands up. Then he fired two rounds in Hatfields direction, missing him both times.

Alvarez is heard in the footage telling her partner to chill, chill, chill immediately after the shots.

She then radioed for backup, telling the dispatcher that police were engaged with a man with a gun. In the meantime, Hatfield ran into one of the apartment units.

A police negotiator responded to the scene and could be heard in one of the videos trying to convince Hatfield to surrender with his hands up, telling him, "We're not going anywhere."

After about nine minutes, Hatfield emerged and lay on the ground while officers converged on him. As they trained their guns on him and barked orders, he is heard yelling: "Y'all shot at me. I ain't got sh, I ain't got sh, sir. I ain't got nothing."

I havent did anything, he said, over and over. I dont got nothing.

Hatfield was booked on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon on a police officer. But the Los Angeles County district attorneys office declined the case, citing a lack of sufficient evidence in a charge evaluation sheet released last week.

The report, dated June 27, points to some confusion in the moments leading up to the shooting. Alvarez told investigators that she believed Hatfield was armed and had fired at police, while Freund reportedly only believed Hatfield had flashed a gun.

The only bullet casings recovered at the scene were from Freund's department-issued firearm, the report said. Police said they didn't recover any weapons in the driveway and after obtaining search warrants, "no gun was located in [Hatfield's] apartment, car, or path of travel," according to the report.

Hatfield declined to comment for this story.

In a similar case, 45-year-old Jose Barrera was shot by police in March while walking in the area of Martin Luther King and Avalon boulevards. Police had been summoned to the scene by a report of a man who'd pointed a gun at a motorist.

Officers fired at Barrera, believing he was armed. Later, they determined that the black object in his hand was a cellphone. As with the other two incidents, LAPD presented assault with a deadly weapon charges to prosecutors, who declined the case.

After reaching a 30-year low in 2019, the number of police shootings increased each of the last two years.

So far this year, LAPD officers have opened fire 22 times, killing 10 people in the past seven months. That is roughly equal to the number of shootings during the same period in 2021. But it is a substantial increase from 2020, when there were 27 shootings all year, seven fatal.

In response to last year's increase, Moore pledged a "deep dive" into the department's training on the use of lethal force to assess whether it properly outlines existing department policies, which have gotten stricter in recent years.

Yet, critics argue that the department hasn't done nearly enough to end police shootings. Instead of increasing its budget, they say, some of the funding should be diverted to social services that would better serve the homeless population and those grappling with mental illness and substance use issues.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Daily Beast

John KevinA medical examiner report revealed this week that Empire actress Lindsey Pearlman died by suicide in February from sodium nitrite poisoningand shes not alone. Her death is part of an alarming trend thats left officials scrambling and family members of victims suing Amazon for selling the substance, a common food preservative that can have fatal consequences when ingested in large amounts.Pearlman was found dead in her car on Feb. 13, authorities said, after a five-day search for the
A health care worker at the Mecklenburg County jail has been fired and charged with a felony after she smuggled a cellphone to a person in custody, according to the Sheriffs Office.

Samara Black, 26, worked as a discharge planner with Wellpath, the jails health care provider, for just under two years, according to a Sheriffs Office news release Monday.

Jail officials opened an investigation after receiving a tip that Black was smuggling contraband into the jail, the release said.

Black was arrested and charged with providing a cellphone to an individual held in the jail, a felony, the release said. State law prohibits those in jail from having cellphones.

This type of illegal activity is not tolerated by any persons working inside the detention facility and such actions only compromise the safety of the many hard working detention professionals who already face risks by the sheer nature of the profession, Sheriff Garry McFadden said in the release.
ATLANTA  The Carter Center is alarmed by recent developments in and around Gaza that resulted in the death of some 46 Palestinians, including at least 16 children, in the latest escalation of violence over the past weekend.

The Center condemns the indiscriminate attacks on civilians  a war crime under international law. While the Center welcomes the Egyptian-brokered ceasefire announcement, it is important that its terms and conditions be made public.

The Carter Center again calls for high-level international engagement around ceasefire efforts in Gaza to avoid the cyclical violence. Given its close relationship with Israel, the United States should lead the international community, including the United Nations and European Union, in ensuring parties respect ceasefire terms and conditions. Including other regional stakeholders in the negotiation process would add to the credibility of these efforts and help to ensure that Palestinians and Israelis enjoy equal measures of freedom, prosperity, and security.

###

Contact:

In Atlanta, Soyia Ellison, soyia.ellison@cartercenter.org

In Ramallah, Qais Asad, qais.assad@cartercenter.org

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.
Worshippers at various mosques and schools across Albuquerque, New Mexico, were greeted with police presence as officials increase security following the recent murders of four Muslim men

According to Ahmad Assed, president of the Islamic Center of New Mexico, the Muslim community in Albuquerque is small, with around 3,000-5,000 members.

Assed told CBS News' Omar Villafranca that some members of the community are not leaving their homes and skipping prayer services as police search for a dark-colored sedan suspected of being connected to the murders.

Albuquerque Police Department are asking for help identifying a vehicle suspected of being used in the homicide of four Muslim men / Credit: Albuquerque Police Department

"They are missing their daily routine. They're missing their life. They're missing their sanity," Assed said.

Albuquerque police chief Harold Medina said at a news briefing Saturday afternoon that it is possible that all four of the shootings are linked together.

Among the four men killed was 62-year-old Mohammad Ahmadi, who was killed last November behind a market and cafe he owned with his brother. His younger brother, Sharief Hadi, now runs the market where Mohammad was gunned down.

"It was his heart. I have to run his heart right now," Hadi said.

The brothers were born in Afghanistan but fled during the war in the 1980s. Now, Hadi is struggling to move on with life without his brother.

"I don't care about my life anymore, when I lost my little brother, I don't care," he said.

The most recent victim was 25-year-old Naeem Hussain. He was shot just hours after attending a funeral service for Muhammad Afzaal Hussain and Aftab Hussein, who were both killed in the last two weeks.

Altaf Hussain cries over the grave of his brother Aftab Hussein at Fairview Memorial Park in Albuquerque, N.M., on Friday, Aug. 5, 2022. / Credit: Chancey Bush/The Albuquerque Journal

The FBI is among the agencies investigating the homicides. They are trying to determine whether these killings are hate crimes.

The Albuquerque Police have set up an anonymous tip line relating to the killings. Anyone with tips about these murders is urged to call Albuquerque Metro Crime Stoppers at 505-843-STOP (7867). There is a $20,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest.

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The University of Lynchburg will start the new academic year Aug. 22, marking President Alison Morrison-Shetlar's third year in leadership.

Morrison-Shetlar said when she first visited campus nearly three years ago, she felt it was a place where she could grow and bring her expertise.

As soon as I came onto campus, I had that feeling that this could be my next home, Morrison-Shetlar said in a recent interview with The News & Advance.

Morrison-Shetlar was named president of UL in November 2019. Her term began in July 2020 after the retirement of Kenneth Garren, who had served as president since 2001.

She is the school's 11th president and the first woman in the role in UL's 116-year history.

One of the biggest obstacles she faced was navigating the college through the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. She said the nine months of preparation leading into the 2020 fall semester was important.

That to me was really, really helpful in transitioning into the presidents position, Shetlar said. In fact, for me and for a lot of other people, it was a very seamless transition.

When many schools shut down in March 2020, she went online and talked with about 1,500 faculty, staff, students, parents, community members and graduates of the university.

The university managed to stay residential throughout those two years, according to Morrison-Shetlar.

The students stepped forward and said, President Alison, well do anything, just don't send us home,' and they did, Morrison-Shetlar said. Its because of the students that we were successful.

She started the Lynchburg Tomorrow initiative  which originated from various meetings with local community members in her first few months as president  as a way to contribute to the city and position the college to be Lynchburgs university.

In their first meeting, members of the initiative discussed different topics and ideas they can work on, collaboratively, to move the city forward and see if the university can be of service.

Three key areas identified to help the community were access to healthy food, access to affordable health care and leadership development.

In the meeting, they implemented an asset map outlining organizations, entities and leaders in the city and region who can help with those three areas.

An example of a program under the Lynchburg Tomorrow initiative is the Scholar Identity Institute. In June, rising sophomores, juniors and seniors at both E.C. Glass and Heritage high schools participated in a one week institute on campus. They worked closely with Vanderbilt Professor Gilman Whiting on team-building activities and identifying as a scholar.

Michael Jones, UL's vice president for enrollment, marketing and communications, said his two years of working with Morrison-Shetlar have been the hardest he's ever worked before.

We have a hard time keeping up with her. She is full of ideas and theyre good ones, Jones said.

Moving forward, Morrison-Shetlar wants undergraduate numbers to increase to 1,900 students and graduate numbers to increase to 1,000 students. There's currently 1,822 undergraduate students and 870 graduate students, according to the university website.

She wants the university to be known for leadership development; innovation; partnerships; and diversity, equity and inclusion.

I want us all to be doing what we do best, which is to prepare students for the future so that they can be leaders and they can change the world, Morrison-Shetlar said.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin joined many Republican Party politicians in blasting the FBIs search of former President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago home.

A stunning move by the DOJ and FBI, the governor said in tweet from his personal Twitter account.

This same DOJ labeled parents in Loudoun County as terrorists and failed to enforce federal law to protect Justices in their homes, he said.

Youngkin referred to the controversy over a high school student who assaulted students in two Loudoun schools as well as the protests that followed the U.S. Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

The FBI search of Trumps home, which the former president called a raid, was reportedly in search of information about classified records he may have kept which, if true, could be in violation of federal records law.

In February, the National Archives retrieved 15 boxes of documents and gifts from Trumps home, saying they should have been turned over when he left office. Trumps aides told The Washington Post the boxes contained mementos and gifts, including correspondence from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that Trump had described as love letters.

Youngkins press secretary, Macaulay Porter, declined to elaborate on the tweet or the governors motive for making the statement.

The governors statement in support of Trump  who Youngkin might want to challenge for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination  comes after the governor navigated a delicate dance with the former president during his campaign for governor.

Trump endorsed Youngkin on multiple occasions. In a radio interview shortly after Youngkin won the GOP nomination for governor, he said: President Trump represents so much of why I am running.

During his campaign for the GOP nomination, Youngkin was slow to acknowledge Joe Biden was duly elected president.

But that September, in his first general election debate with Democrat Terry McAuliffe, Youngkin split with Trump on the notion of election fraud.

Youngkin said in the debate: I do not believe theres been significant fraud in Virginia elections, and he said he did not expect Democrats to cheat.

I think were going to have a clean, fair election, and I fully expect to win, Youngkin said.

State Sen. Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, tweeted a response to Youngkins statement, saying that FBI director Christopher Wray was appointed by Trump, who had described him as having impeccable credentials.

In Washington, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., said Congress would investigate the Justice Department if the GOP takes control of the chamber next year.

Virginian Republicans also chimed in.

Selective enforcement of our laws is not just a bad look for federal authorities; its downright scary, said Speaker of the House Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah. Perhaps President Trump should have hidden Hillary Clintons emails and Hunter Bidens laptop in his safe.

State Sen. Jen Kiggans, R-Virginia Beach, who is running to replace Rep. Elaine Luria, D-2nd, said: The dangerous precedent the Democrats set yesterday by weaponizing the FBI should anger and frighten every American.

Kiggans said the search was intended to settle old political scores and to silence a political opponent.

Her tweet came in response to one from Luria that said: There is no way to defend Trump, only to deflect. Luria is a member of the House Jan. 6 committee that is investigating the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Rep. Bob Good, R-5th, tweeted that: If they can come for President Trump they can come for you.

Democrats, meanwhile, fired back.

Its a fundamental truth in our country that no one is above the law, tweeted Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va. The FBI and DOJ must be allowed to continue their work free from political interference, he added.

Youngkin has previously called on federal officials to step in to protect Supreme Court justices privacy at their Virginia homes.

He has also criticized the way Loudoun school officials handled the assaults. An executive order he signed the day he took office authorized Attorney Gen. Jason Miyares to investigate Loudouns public schools. The executive order said: The Loudoun County School Board and school administrators withheld key details and knowingly lied to parents about the assaults.

Youngkins tweet apparently referred to a letter last year that the National School Boards Association sent to President Joe Biden, comparing parents protests in the county to domestic terrorists.

Miyares has empaneled a special grand jury to investigate the School Boards response to the assaults. Last month, a state judge rebuffed the School Boards effort to quash the grand jury, calling it politically motivated.
Japanese designer Issey Miyake, famed for his pleated style of clothing that never wrinkles, has died aged 84, according to media reports in the country.

Miyake, whose name became a byword for Japans economic and fashion prowess in the 1980s, died on August 5 of liver cancer, Kyodo news agency said on Tuesday.

An employee from his office in Tokyo said Miyakes funeral had already taken place, with only relatives participating in line with his wishes. There were no plans for a public ceremony, the employee said.

Miyake, who pioneered high-tech, comfortable clothing during a career that spanned more than half a century, was part of a wave of young Japanese designers who made their mark in Paris from the mid-1970s.

His fashion house nurtured many talented young designers, and was known for innovative and dazzling catwalk shows.

Born in Hiroshima, Miyake was seven years old when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the city while he was in a classroom. He was reluctant to speak of the event in later life. In 2009, writing in the New York Times as part of a campaign to get then-US President Barack Obama to visit the city, he said he did not want to be labelled as the designer who survived the bomb.

Known for his practicality, Miyake is said to have wanted to become either a dancer or an athlete before reading his sisters fashion magazines inspired him to change direction  with those original interests believed to be behind the freedom of movement his clothing permits.

After studying graphic design at a Tokyo art university, he learned clothing design in Paris, where he worked with celebrated fashion designers Guy Laroche and Hubert de Givenchy, before heading to New York. In 1970, he returned to Tokyo and founded the Miyake Design Studio.

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DES MOINES  Mallory McMorrow said she vividly remembers Zach Wahls 2011 speech on the floor of the Iowa House in defense of same-sex marriage.

Then an advocate with two mothers and now a Democratic state senator from Coralville, Wahls in that 2011 speech spoke out against a Republican proposal to ban same-sex marriage in Iowa.

McMorrow said she recalls watching Wahls speech and thinking, Just how cool that was seeing a young person stand up very publicly and speak as eloquently and forcefully as he did.

McMorrow could just as well be describing other Democrats reaction to her own viral statehouse remarks earlier this year  she raised more than $1 million in the wake of her speech  which is why she will be speaking in Iowa this week at a party fundraiser.

McMorrow, a Democratic state senator from Royal Oak, Mich., has become a rising star in the Democratic Party after her viral response on the Michigan Senate floor earlier this year to accusations that she was grooming children. She has been invited to and will deliver the keynote address Friday night at the Iowa Democratic Wing Ding at The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake.

The Wing Ding is the annual fundraiser for Democratic Party organizations in seven northern Iowa counties.

It feels so deflating for a lot of Democrats right now. And this sounds super cheesy, but if we can do pep talks all around the country and get Democrats fired up, Id love to do that, McMorrow said Monday in a phone interview.

Whether or not they are deflated, Iowa Democrats are at the very least in an electoral funk.

Over the past three election cycles, Iowa Republicans have gained full control of the state lawmaking process by winning the governors office and majorities in both chambers of the Iowa Legislature, and have claimed five of the six spots in the states congressional delegation.

And Iowa Republicans have their sights set even higher for this fall: They believe they have an opportunity to earn a complete congressional delegation sweep, and not only maintain but expand their hold on state offices by winning campaigns for state attorney general and treasurer, both of which have been held by Democrats for decades.

McMorrow said her message will be one that Democrats can take to voters even in states like Iowa. She said that she represents in the Michigan Senate a district that leans conservative and includes the hometown of Republican U.S. senator and former presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

We have to get past the idea that just because somebody says its a red state, doesnt mean its a red state. The people are there. We just have to find them and connect with them, McMorrow said. The response that Ive had over the past three months I think shows that people are craving Democrats (who are) standing up and fighting back and feeling the way that they do. And we have every right to do that, and do it in places where it may not be expected.

The Iowa Democratic Wing Ding is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday. Tickets can be purchased at iowawingding.com.

The Republican Party of Iowa declined to offer comments for this article.
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Photo: The Canadian Press Former President Donald Trump speaks at a rally Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, in Waukesha, Wis. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Former President Donald Trump said in a lengthy statement Monday that the FBI was conducting a search of his Mar-a-Lago estate and asserted that agents had broken open a safe. A person familiar with the matter said the action was related to a probe of whether Trump had taken classified records from his White House tenure to his Florida residence.

The action, which the FBI and Justice Department did not immediately confirm, marks a dramatic escalation in law enforcement scrutiny of Trump and comes as he has been laying the groundwork to make another bid for president. Though a search warrant does not suggest that criminal charges are near or even expected, federal officials looking to obtain one must demonstrate that they have probable cause that a crime occurred.

After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Trump said in his statement.

He added: "These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before.

Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search, including about whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorized the search.

A person familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, said the search happened earlier Monday and agents were also looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at the estate.

The Justice Department has been investigating the presence of classified records inside 15 boxes that were retrieved from Mar-a-Lago by the National Archives and Records Administration earlier this year. The Archives then referred the matter to the Justice Department.

Federal law bars the removal of classified documents to unauthorized locations, though it is possible that Trump could try to argue that, as president, he was the ultimate declassification authority.

There are multiple statutes governing classified information, including a law punishable by up to five years in prison that makes it a crime to remove such records and retain them at an unauthorized location. Another statute makes it a crime to mishandle classified records either intentionally or in a grossly negligent manner.

The probe is hardly the only legal headache confronting Trump. A separate investigation related to efforts by Trump and his allies to undo the results of the 2020 presidential election and the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol has also been intensifying in Washington.

And a district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia is investigating whether Trump and his close associates sought to interfere in that state's election, which was won by Democrat Joe Biden.
Lack of rainfall has weighed on Moroccos cereals harvest which dropped to 34 million quintals this year, down 67% from last year, the agriculture ministry said.

Soft wheat yield stood at 18.9 million quintals, hard wheat at 8.1 million quintals and barley at 7 million quintals as the country registered a drop of 34% in rainfall this year, the ministry said in its final data.

Despite the surge in wheat prices due to the supply disruptions resulting from the Ukraine war, Morocco maintains its subsidies for soft wheat flour.

Morocco has also offered incentives to importers to build up additional stocks. Morocco imports wheat from France, Canada, the US and Argentina.
Moroccos growing automotive sector is preparing the ground for the shift to electric vehicles as the country ambitions to set up a battery factory and further bolster the competitiveness of local part makers.

In a push to achieve zero emission quest by 2050, the EU imposed a ban on petrol and diesel cars from 2035. This means car makers have to adapt to EV or leave the EU market.

Industry minister Ryad Mezzour told Reuters in a recent interview about ongoing talks with several manufacturers for the setting up of an EV battery plant in Morocco, where renewable energy, cobalt and phosphates are locally available.

Morocco could also easily import lithium in view of its good commercial ties with exporting countries such as the DRC and Chile.

Last year, Morocco exported some 700,000 vehicles, while the production capacity of EV cars stood at 50,000, a figure that is set to double in the next two years, the minister said.

In March, Moroccos industry ministry signed deals with five wire harness suppliers to set up plants in Morocco for investments worth 180 million dollars as demand grows from EV manufacturers at home and abroad.

Morocco is also trying to foster its position in the global semiconductor supply chains. The country is already home to suppliers such as ST Microelectronics which expanded its solar-powered Casablanca plant.

An industry source said Morocco has been affected by the semiconductor crisis as the global economy shakes off dust from Covid and demand grows on cars. At that time, Moroccan semiconductor makers were exporting rather than supplying the local market.

Now bridges have been built to supply Morocco-based car-makers with semiconductors made in Morocco, the source said, requesting anonymity.
The Arab Group at the United Nations commended, Monday, King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, for his sustained efforts in favor of the Palestinian cause.

The statement was made by Ambassador Mahmoud Daifallah Hmoud, Jordans Permanent Representative to the UN, who chairs the Arab Group for the month of August, during a Security Council meeting devoted to the latest developments in the Gaza Strip.

The Jordanian ambassador said that the recent escalation in Gaza reflects a situation that cannot continue, namely the absence of the two-state solution, as the only way to establish an independent, sovereign and geographically connected Palestinian state on the lines of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

This solution is the only way to resolve the conflict and achieve a just and comprehensive peace, he stressed, noting that peace will not be achieved by undermining the two-state solution through continued settlements, confiscation of land and expulsion of Palestinians from their homes.

Peace and security for all requires a return to serious and effective negotiations to achieve a two-state solution, which embodies the independent and sovereign Palestinian state on the lines of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, and in accordance with the resolutions of international legitimacy and the Security Council and the Arab Peace Initiative, said the Jordanian diplomat.

The UN Security Council convened a closed-door emergency meeting on Monday to discuss Israels latest escalation in the Gaza Strip. several members expressed their concerns despite the fragile truce between the Palestinian militant group and Israel after three days of deadly clashes.

In reacting to the latest developments in the region, many countries, including Morocco, have expressed worries and called for restraint.

On Saturday, Morocco voiced deep concern over the serious deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip following the surge of deadly acts of violence and fighting between a Palestinian militant group and Israeli forces.

A statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Morocco, whose Sovereign, King Mohammed VI, chairs Al-Quds Committee of OIC, calls for avoiding further escalation and for calm to spare the region more tensions that will undermine the chances for peace.

Rabat reiterates its constant positions supporting the rights of the Palestinian people, and reaffirms that the lasting solution to the conflict between the Palestinians and Israelis lies in the establishment of an independent Palestinian State living side by side with the State of Israel in security and peace, underlines the FM statement.

The UN had also expressed concerns about the serious escalation, saying that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is already dire and can only worsen with this most recent escalation.
People took to streets Monday in the southern Iraqi province of Basra, and blocked roads to protest against power cuts that left many without electricity in 50C heat, Arab News reported.

The demonstrators burned tires, blocking the main road to the provincial capital.

The protests, the Saudi media notes, began after the collapse of the electricity grid in six southern provinces due to excessive demand amid high temperatures. Basra Gov. Asaad Al-Eidani reportedly said the latest cuts were due to a fire at a power station.

In the holy city of Najaf, a weapons depot, belonging to the Iran-backed Hashd Al-Shaabi network of paramilitary groups, exploded in the heat, Arab News also reported.
The UK Foreign Affairs Committee has labelled Saddek Elkaber, the Governor of the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) well-known financier of militias and gangsters who runs a troubled organization.

The committees bashing of the Libyan official comes after a meeting between Elkaber and Governor of Bank of England Andrew Bailey in July, Libya Update reports.

Tom Tugendhat, the committees chairman, criticized Bailey for meeting with Elkaber and accused him of lending legitimacy to a well-known financier of militias and gangsters.

Bailey has met with a man who has overseen an institution beset by fraud. London has been the center for this enterprise for years, said the British MP.

It is clear public money flows out of Libya, into London banks, and into the hands of gangsters and militias.

To meet with a man like this is deeply unwise, it raises questions over the judgement of the Bank of England, he said.

London and the CBL have been under scrutiny after a report by Global Witness highlighted the widespread use of LCs (letters of credit), which distributes around $9 billion worth of foreign currency to businesses and public authorities every year.

The report, the Libyan media notes, found home to dozens of Libyan banks, played a key role in the operation: Global Witness set out to examine the LC money trail, which stretches from the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) to Libyan-owned banks in the heart of London.

LCs are essentially a means of exporting cash, turning Libyan dinars into dollars, euros, pounds and other currencies which can be spent overseas but the LC system has long been plagued by fraud and predation by armed groups.

Elkaber backs Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh, one of Libyas current rival Prime Ministers. Dbeibeh whose administration is headquartered in capital Tripoli, is endorsed by several militia groups.
The United States will not dictate Africas choices, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said during his visit to South Africa on Monday, August 8, despite having sought support from the continents 54 countries in efforts to isolate Russia over its Ukraine invasion.

Blinken is in South Africa as part of his African tour that follows similar trips to countries on the continent by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and French President Emmanuel Macron.

In Pretoria, the US top diplomat launched the new US Strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa, which focuses on areas such as climate change, trade, health and food insecurity. He and his South African counterpart Naledi Pandor held talks, discussing the threats of climate change, food insecurity, and the war in Ukraine.

Pandor accused the West of sometimes taking a patronizing and bullying attitude toward Africa, making it clear that South Africa has different views from the US on Ukraine, China, and Israel and the Palestinians. Blinken responded by saying that existing relations between the two countries, which range from cooperation in health and other sectors, would allow for them to engage frankly on issues where their views are different. Our commitment to a stronger partnership with Africa is not about trying to outdo anyone else, Blinken said.

Responding to Blinkens comments that Russias invasion was an aggression against the entire international order, Pandor noted that while South Africa has remained neutral on the conflict with Russia, her country abhorred war and would like to see an end to the conflict. However, she said the different approaches by the international community to different conflicts sometimes lead to cynicism about international bodies, making a reference to the plight of the Palestinians. Just as much as the people of Ukraine deserve their territory and freedom, the people of Palestine deserve their territory and freedom, she said, adding that weve not seen an even-handed approach.

In a speech at the University of Pretoria, Monday, Blinken addressed another Biden administrations strategic goal in Africa: promoting democratic governance across the continent.

History shows that strong democracies tend to be more stable and less prone to conflict  and that the poor governance, exclusion and corruption inherent in weak democracies makes them more vulnerable to extremist movements and foreign interference, Blinken said

After South Africa, Blinken will also visit Congo and Rwanda in the coming days in what is seen as a contest between Western nations and Russia to win support from African countries over the war in Ukraine. South Africa is among many African countries that have taken a neutral stance on the Ukraine war and avoided public criticism of Russia.
More than 40 rebel and opposition factions signed a deal with Chads transitional authorities in Doha on Monday, August 8, agreeing to join broader national peace talks after years of turmoil  though the most powerful insurgent group refused to take part.

Under the agreement, Mahamat Idriss Debys Transitional Military Council and hundreds of opposition representatives will launch a national peace dialogue in the capital NDjamena on 20 August. The dialogue aims to agree the schedule and rules for a presidential election that Deby has promised by October. Yet, after five months of mediation efforts, the main rebel Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) announced hours before the ceremony in Doha that it would not sign the deal, despite last-minute efforts by Qatars mediators. FACT and other opposition groups have demanded that Deby announce that he will not stand in the election, a condition refused by Deby who is currently the president of the Transitional Military Council.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and the African Union urged the junta and opposition to seize the latest opportunity to stabilize a country considered key to international efforts to stamp out Islamic extremists in the Sahel region. Chad has had little stability since its independence in 1960, and the coming talks are being widely watched, as the country is seen as a key ally in international efforts to counter armed groups fighting around the region. FACT fighters led the rebel offensive in which Debys father, Idriss Deby Itno, who had been president for 30 years, was killed.
The European Union has reached out to the kingdom of Morocco to study possibilities to invest in the Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline project that will connect up to Spain, in view of replacing Russia which is using its gas as political weapon.

The move came after Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari called on European Union countries and the United Kingdom to invest in this Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline in order to solve the energy crisis situation and provide energy security for African countries, in addition to Europe and other Western countries, local Al Ahdath Al Maghribia reported this Tuesday, August 9.

The Nigerian leader, the daily in Arabic noted, invited Europeans to establish a long-term partnership in order to concretize this project which would help to solve the energy crisis situation in the Old Continent. The interest of the EU in the Morocco-Nigeria project has recently become more apparent as the bloc seeks to replace Russia as its largest gas supplier.

Russian President Vladimir Putin in response to western sanctions has slashed the gas supply to Europe.

Morocco and Nigeria launched in 2017 the off-shore project that will benefit 13 African countries and that is seen as a strategic undertaking for regional integration in West Africa, bearing positive impacts on the socio-economic development of all countries in the region.

The project backed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is viewed as regional cooperation and energy diversification in West Africa.

Morocco and Nigeria held talks on the project early June in Rabat on the sidelines of the 1st ministerial meeting of Atlantic African States, that was attended by Nigerian FM Geoffrey Onyeama.
A 31-year-old man was sentenced to more than a decade in state prison for robbing a North Platte liquor store on Christmas Eve.

In Lincoln County District Court, Trevor L. Franklin received three to five years for the robbery of Big Red Liquor and 10 to 15 years for using a firearm to commit a felony.

The terms will run one after another, and Franklin was credited with 227 days served on the robbery charge.

According to court records, Franklin cut the stores power before he went inside and pointed a handgun at two employees.

He took the cash box, which contained roughly $91.

He was arrested outside a skill game room about a block southeast of the store.

Also Monday, Michael T. Wiegand, 25, was sentenced to six to 10 years in prison for each of two counts of possession of child pornography.

The terms will run at the same time, and Wiegand was credited with 185 days served.

Wiegand pleaded no contest to the two charges on May 23 for images that were found on his phone. Three other child pornography possession charges were dismissed in the plea agreement.

In other cases Monday (defendants are from North Platte unless otherwise noted):

San A. Suhr, 35, was sentenced to 364 days in jail for methamphetamine possession in an October 2020 incident.

Suhr was credited with 138 days served and also received 12 months of post-release supervision.

Reid C. Corbett, 56, of Mankato, Minnesota, received three to five years in prison for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

He pleaded no contest to the amended charge June 6.

According to court records, Corbett was found in possession of 14 grams of methamphetamine after the Nebraska State Patrol stopped him Jan. 5 going roughly 45 mph on Interstate 80.

Corbett was credited with 216 days served.

A 33-year-old man pleaded not guilty to felony charges of first-degree sexual assault of a child and incest.

The North Platte Telegraph is not using the mans name to protect the victim.

A Sept. 26 status hearing was scheduled.

Jad R. Hipple, 34, pleaded guilty to possession of Adderall.

He was sentenced to 200 days in jail and credited with 112 days served.

Helen J. Kramer, 54, was sentenced for possession of methamphetamine in two separate cases.

Kramer received 200 days in jail in both cases with credit for 79 days served.

The sentences run at the same time.

Matthew Arnold, 34, pleaded guilty of domestic assault intentionally causing bodily injury.

A felony count of assault by strangulation or suffocation was dismissed in the plea agreement.

Arnold was sentenced to 84 days in jail and credited with time served.

Matthew J. Gayle, 30, pleaded guilty to an amended charge of theft by unlawful taking with a value of $500 or less, second offense.

Gayle was sentenced to 16 days in jail and credited with 17 days served.

Jason A. Janas, 46, pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of third-degree assault from a Sept. 20, 2021, incident.

Janas was sentenced to eight days in jail and credited with the same amount of time served.

Erica K. Charging Elk, 29, pleaded no contest to second-degree assault.

Three other charges were dismissed in the plea agreement: robbery, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony and kidnapping.

She is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 17.

Omar F. Mora, 36, pleaded not guilty to three charges of possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person and a count of negligent child abuse with no injury.

Mora also pleaded not guilty to two counts of intentional child abuse with no injury in a separate case.

A Sept. 26 status hearing was scheduled for both cases.

Barbara Collins, 31, pleaded not guilty to two counts of intentional child abuse with no injury.

A Sept. 26 status hearing was scheduled.

Jeasthan Sum, 26, of St. Paul, Minnesota, pleaded not guilty of possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person.

An Oct. 31 status hearing was scheduled.

Antoine W. Bushnell, 24, pleaded not guilty to possession of Ritalin.

A Sept. 26 status hearing was scheduled.

Rebecca A. White, 39, pleaded not guilty to possession of methamphetamine.

A Nov. 14 status hearing was scheduled.

Martin P. Ramos Jr., 48, pleaded not guilty to violating a protection order.

A Sept. 17 status hearing was scheduled.

Roberta E. Parra pleaded not guilty to a felony count of theft by unlawful taking with a value of $500 or less, third offense.

A Nov. 14 status hearing was scheduled.

Deon Hampton, 44, of Hershey, pleaded not guilty to a count of theft by deception with a value of $5,000 or more.

An Oct. 31 status hearing was scheduled.
Photo: The Canadian Press Interim Liberal party leader Bill Graham is given a standing ovation in the House of Commons in Ottawa, Tuesday Nov. 28, 2006. Graham, who served as foreign affairs minister when Canada decided against joining the United States invasion of Iraq in 2003, has died. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Tom Hanson CANADA

Condolences from Canadian politicians past and present poured out Monday as they learned about the death of Bill Graham, who served as foreign affairs minister when the country decided against joining the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003.

Former Liberal MP John English told The Canadian Press Graham died Sunday, according to a member of his family who shared the news with him earlier Monday.

English said he had cancer and died peacefully after being in poor health for some time.

"He was a fun guy. I went out with him for drinks just three or four weeks ago. He wasnt drinking .... He enjoyed a good glass of wine but he couldnt join us," he recalled.

"Hes such a wonderful presence. So positive, so optimistic. Hes a person to be taken seriously, but he never took himself seriously. He was full of laughter. He laughed very easily.

Graham, 83, was first elected as a Liberal member of Parliament for the riding then known as Toronto Centre-Rosedale in 1993, after two unsuccessful runs.

Former colleagues eulogized Graham as a skilled MP, having spent time on the backbenches before entering cabinet, and someone who demonstrated a deep passion about helping those in his community.

George Smitherman, who represented the same downtown Toronto area for the Liberals provincially as Graham had federally, said Graham had a remarkable way of connecting with people, no matter their background.

Smitherman, who is gay, said he first arrived in what is now known as Toronto Centre as a kid finding comfort with his sexuality and at the time Graham and the local Liberals had embedded AIDS activism in their politics.

That, to me, was one of the most defining attributes of the way political parties ought to operate, Smitherman said.

It was really a huge impact on me in my life.

Former Liberal MP John McKay says Graham was a "complete politician."

"A good constituency person, a good national person and a good international person. Not many people can say that.

He was (an) immensely smart, decent, classy man," he added.

In January 2002, months after the 9/11 terrorist attacks shook the world, Graham was appointed to serve in cabinet as foreign affairs minister by then-prime minister Jean Chretien.

At that time, Canada had to decide whether to join the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq and then navigate its relationship with its closest ally when it opted against doing so.

Graham was roundly praised for not only assisting in that decision, but his overall handling of the role at a turbulent time in international relations.

"He was an outstanding minister of foreign affairs and a skilled parliamentarian," tweeted John Baird, who served as foreign affairs minister under former Conservative prime minister Stephen Harper.

After his time in foreign affairs, Graham was moved to minister of national defence.

Eugene Lang was his chief of staff at the time and said Graham, who was well travelled before entering politics, was well-liked by most everyone, including MPs of different political stripes and the public service.

"He treated everybody with a huge amount of respect. There was no arrogance in Bill."

Lang said while Graham was only in the role of national defence minister for less than two years, he had many accomplishments, including securing a funding boostand also recommending the appointment of Rick Hillier as chief of defence staff.

Former Liberal prime minister Paul Martin released a statement after learning of Graham's death, saying he "helped our government and the country navigate a challenging period of history as we deployed into Kandahar in southern Afghanistan."

"His loss will be felt by all who knew or worked with him."

After the Liberals lost government to the Conservatives in 2006 and Martin resigned, Graham stepped into the role of the party's interim leader.

The Liberal party owes him a huge debt of gratitude," said McKay, who said he was an obvious choice for many.

Harper said Graham was the first official Opposition leader he faced after winning government.

"Bill was always a gentleman," he tweeted.

"He always kept the best interests of the country in mind."

For longtime Liberal cabinet minister Carolyn Bennett, she remembers Graham as someone who was comfortable around everyone and a generous listener in conversation.

"There's no one else you'd rather have dinner with. And I think that's what a lot of us feel," she said Monday.

"He just was so special. It's just really hard to believe he's gone," Bennett said, her voice breaking.
Lincoln County commissioners on Monday rejected the Veterans Services Committees selection to replace retiring Paul Cooper as veterans services officer.

Joe Wiezorek and Jeff Florom presented the committees choice to the commissioners. Brookley Baker, a former North Platte city councilman, was one of three finalists interviewed by the committee after the field was narrowed down from 12 applicants.

Baker and Thomas Gann, both of North Platte, and Mark Wigstone of Gothenburg were the finalists. Baker was selected as the committees top candidate, but the commissioners voiced concerns before voting 5-0 against his hiring.

Chairman Chris Bruns said he had received several phone calls and messages of concern after Bakers name had been leaked as the committees choice.

I have a couple concerns that Ill just be frank with, Bruns said. Ive had several veteran constituents reach out to me over the weekend. I dont know how word got out who was selected, but they did bring some concerns to me.

Bruns said those concerns were hearsay, but in line with what was discussed during the interview process.

Commissioner Micaela Wuehler said she attended both the work session and the interviews.

You guys have had a very tall order for a very young committee, Wuehler said. I think all of us collectively understand the magnitude of filling this position with the best choice.

The primary concerns that came from the committee on Baker in the discussion following the interviews were that Baker tends to be abrasive and uses profanity.

Another concern that prompted a long discussion by the committee after the interviews was that Baker came to the interview wearing shorts.

Wiezorek said, however, that Baker was wearing a shirt and hat representative of veterans. But several commissioners voiced concern about lack of professionalism when interviewing for a position as important as the veterans services officer.

It is a subjective process it looks like, and I see you did have some split, at least initially, in the consensus for the choice, Commissioner Kent Weems said. I notice the scoring was all over the place.

Florom said the committee used a matrix of questions to rate the candidates, but it was not the sole criteria for making their selection.

Bruns asked whether Florom and Wiezorek felt any one of the three finalists would do a good job.

Yes, I believe any one of the three that we interviewed would do a good job, Florom said. Personally, I felt like Mr. Baker was more energetic, welcoming, and he has experience with the DAV in doing some of the claims. I felt he would be a good person to welcome veterans that have issues to help deal with those.

The board disagreed. The Veterans Services Committee now must offer a different candidate for the position.

The board adopted a resolution supporting the conversion of a portion of the Trailblazer Pipeline from natural gas to carbon dioxide.

Currently, Trailblazer and its sister pipeline company, the Rockies Express Pipeline, have two pipelines that traverse the state and cut through Lincoln County, Bruns said. Both are used to pump natural gas to end-users in eastern Nebraska.

I have been working with the Tallgrass Pipeline Co. and their consultants since November of last year in order to educate myself about the conversion project we are considering supporting today, Bruns said.

He outlined the benefits of the project and the impact it will have on the ethanol industry in Nebraska.

Nebraska currently has 24 ethanol plants, two of which serve our area producers  Sutherland and Madrid, Bruns said. Those plants have the production capacity of more than 2.5 billion gallons of ethanol.

Bruns said that makes Nebraska the second highest ethanol producing state in the nation. The use of ethanol reduces greenhouse gases by 46%, Bruns added.

However, the challenges they face with regard to regulation and continued green pressures are very real, Bruns said. Tallgrass is responding with a great solution to help the ethanol industry maintain needed flexibility, continue to be competitive and ensure its producers continue to have robust and vital energy production well into the future.

The project must first receive approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The boards resolution will be submitted to the FERC for public comment on the project.

The conversion would require retrofitting one of the existing pipelines to send carbon dioxide to Wyoming, where it will be permanently stored underground instead of being released into the atmosphere.

The capacity of this project is 10 million metric tons of CO2 annually, Bruns said. That is the equivalent of removing more than 2 million vehicles from the roads.

The change would not require any large-scale ground disturbances or impacts to property owners along the existing pipeline, Bruns said, and Tallgrass has hosted several community open houses with those property owners.

Bruns pointed out the project is for carbon dioxide, not carbon monoxide. CO2 has many uses including carbonation of soft drinks and it is not explosive.
A Monday announcement of plans to finalize a retired North Platte sewer lagoons sale signaled the nearing of groundbreaking on the long-awaited Sustainable Beef LLC plant.

The citys Community Redevelopment Authority will meet in City Hall at 9 a.m. Thursday, with adoption of a resolution executing the $142,500 sale to beef-plant organizers listed as the last order of business.

That step presupposes the completion of Sustainable Beefs $325 million financing package, as required by the City Council approved a redevelopment plan for the former lagoon Dec. 7.

I have not seen the document, but that is my understanding that financing has been wrapped up, Mayor Brandon Kelliher said Monday afternoon.

Based on that, he said, the CRA will act appropriately based on the previous council and CRA resolutions.

Sustainable Beef organizers were required to present evidence of both a signed construction contract and the projects full financing to gain title to the 80-acre site east of Newberry Access and south of Golden Road.

The council took a preliminary step in that direction July 19, voting 7-0 to adopt an ordinance turning over the old lagoon to the CRA.

The five-member panel will first be asked Thursday to finalize its purchase of the site from the city. Action on selling it for the same $142,500 price to Sustainable Beef will follow.

Project CEO David Briggs of Alliance did not return messages seeking comment. Gary Person, president and CEO of the North Platte Area Chamber & Development Corp., referred questions to Briggs.

Sustainable Beefs mostly western Nebraska organizers announced the 1,500-head-per-day project in March 2021, stating their desire to increase capacity in the U.S. beef industry and give regional ranchers another place to sell their cattle beyond the nations Big Four meatpackers.

After several public hearings and a trip to a similar Idaho plant by a community delegation, the council gave 8-0 approval to $21.5 million in tax increment financing in addition to the sale of the former sewer lagoon.

Before that decision, council members in August 2021 approved a pair of $500,000 forgivable loans for project planning from the citys Quality Growth Fund and the NorthWestern Energy Economic Development Fund.

The Legislature pitched in as well, passing a budget bill April 7 including $20 million for Sustainable Beefs in-house wastewater treatment system in allocating Nebraskas $1.04 billion share of federal COVID-19 aid through the American Rescue Plan Act.

Organizers plan a single-shift, 1,500-head-per-day beef processing plant. Some 875 jobs are expected to be added by the plant, with hundreds more from related businesses expected to follow.

Thursdays CRA meeting will be in the City Hall council chamber, 211 W. Third St.
The North Platte Public Schools Board of Education approved the Selection and Review of Library Media policy recommended by the KSB School Law firm in Lincoln.

The policy is not currently mandated by the state Legislature, but board chairman Skip Altig said it will likely become a requirement in the future. Superintendent Todd Rhodes said a review committee will be formed to discuss any new media coming into the districts libraries.

There are two pieces to this proposed policy, Rhodes said. The first is selection for new media into our libraries and what that procedure looks like.

Rhodes said the committee will include the three media specialists across the district, a building administrator, a classroom teacher, along with Vikki Carlson, director of Secondary Teaching and Learning, and Lyndsey Douglas, director of Elementary Teaching and Learning.

The other component of this is a review of current library media, Rhodes said. If a parent or community member would have a concern about a piece of media, an outline of the process that they would go through for us to review that material (would be in place).

The process, he said, would begin at the building level.

Mark Nicholson, board member, voted against the policy that passed by a 4-1 vote, with Angela Blaesi absent from the meeting.

I think we hire librarians to put materials in those libraries and the community members set those policies and standards, Nicholson said. I dont think a committee is necessary for placement of materials.

Nicholson said the librarians do a good job and since the policy is not a requirement at this point, he would prefer to wait until it is mandated before putting it into place.

The board also approved the new policy that employees cannot transport students in their own vehicles unless they live in their household.

Kevin Mills, director of Human Resources, said the district is fully staffed with the hiring of a Spanish teacher and two nurses. He said 23 paraeducators have been hired, but there are still six open positions.
Arica Bagley has continued her march through the Maxim cover girl competition, and she's asking for more help to reach the final.

The Lincoln mother found out Friday that she reached the semifinals. The winner among the chosen contestants earns $25,000, plus a cover spot with the international mens magazine, which has a monthly circulation worldwide of about 9 million.

Bagley hopes to share the cover opportunity with Kaelynn Partlow from the television show Love on the Spectrum.

Bagley, who has two children, said they are the only contestants shes seen who are donating the entirety of the prize money. Partlow is an advocate for kids with autism. Bagley is an advocate for abused children.

"We saw it was an opportunity to bring international awareness to our causes," Bagley said. "We will never stop fighting to bring awareness for autistic and abused children."

Bagley, a hairstylist who also is studying film at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, was plucked from thousands of submissions. She needs votes to continue in the competition. Supporters can vote once every 24 hours until Aug. 11 at maximcovergirl.com/2022/arica-bagley.

"There is no way we can win this competition without the support of our community daily," she said.
CMI

Seattle, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Coherent Market Insights, the global breast imaging market is estimated to be valued at US$ 5,023.8 million in 2022 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 10.1% during the forecast period (2022-2030).



Key Trends and Analysis of the Global Breast Imaging Market:

Increasing product approvals by regulatory authorities is expected to drive the global breast imaging market over the forecast period. For instance, on November 22, 2021, Siemens Healthineers, a medical technology company had announced the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance of two new mammography reading and workflow optimization solutions that expand the companys offerings for breast health. The MAMMOVISTA B. smart reading platform accelerates the reading workflow for breast imaging, and the team play Mammo Dashboard tool optimizes workflows through visualization of key performance indicators (KPIs) in the breast imaging process.

Request Sample copy of this Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/2040

Key Market Takeaways:

Global breast imaging market is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 10.1% during the forecast period due to the increasing awareness for breast cancer diagnosis by government organizations in the market. For instance, on February 10, 2022, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced installation of two new mammography units on Brazils navy ships for delivering vital health services along South Americas biggest waterway where women living in amazon river, south America communities have increased access to breast cancer screening

Among Technology, the Ionizing Breast Imaging Technology segment holds a dominant position, owing to increasing product approvals by regulatory authorities. For instance, On June 28, 2022, Seno Medical, a medical imaging company announced that the Seno Medicals Imagio Breast Imaging System, a new modality in breast imaging, received supplemental premarket approval (PMA) from the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). Senos market-ready, diagnostic breast cancer imaging system helps physicians differentiate between benign and malignant breast lesions using non-invasive opto-acoustic/ultrasound (OA/US) technology to provide information on breast lesions in real time.

Story continues

Competitive Landscape:

Key players operating in the global breast imaging market include Hologic, Inc., General Electric Company, Siemens AG, Koninklijke Philips N.V., Fujifilm Holdings Corporation, Gamma Medica, Inc., Toshiba Corporation, Sonocine, Inc., Aurora Imaging Technology, Inc., and Dilon Technologies, Inc.

Buy-Now this Research Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/2040

Market Segmentation:

Global Breast imaging Market, By Technology: Ionizing Breast Imaging Technology Analog Mammography Full Field Digital Mammography (FFDM) 3D Breast Tomosynthesis Positron Emission Tomography/ Computed Tomography (PET/CT) Molecular Breast Imaging/ Breast Specific Gamma Imaging (MBI/BSMI) Positron Emission Mammography Others Non-Ionizing Breast Imaging Technology Breast MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Breast Ultrasound Optical Imaging Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (AWBU) Breast Thermography

Global Breast imaging Market, By End User: Hospitals Diagnostic Laboratories Ambulatory Surgical Center

Global Breast imaging Market, By Region: North America By Country U.S. Canada Latin America By Country Brazil Mexico Argentina Rest of Latin America Europe By Country Germany U.K. France Italy Spain Russia Rest of Europe Asia Pacific By Country China India Japan Australia South Korea ASEAN Rest of Asia Pacific Middle East By Country GCC Israel Rest of Middle East Africa By Region/Country South Africa Central Africa North Africa



Related Market Intelligence Reports:

Hyperspectral Imaging Market, by Type (Hyperspectral Imaging Cameras, Accessories), by Application, (Disease diagnosis, Image-guided surgery, Cancer detection, Pharmaceuticals, Others (Eye problem detection, assessing tissue perfusion, evaluation teeth structure)), by End User, (Hospitals, Diagnostic Centers and Research centers), and by Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa)- Size, Share, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2022  2030

Molecular Imaging Market, by Product Type (Devices: Molecular Ultrasound Imaging, Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectrometer, and Hybrid Products {Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography (PET-CT), Positron Emission Tomography - Magnetic Resonance (PET-MR), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography - Computed Tomography (SPECT-CT), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography - Magnetic Resonance (SPECT-MR)} and Software Platforms: On Premises Solutions and Cloud Based Solutions), by Application (Cardiovascular, Neurology, Oncology, Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, and Other Applications), by End Users (Hospitals, Diagnostic Imaging Centres, and Ambulatory Surgical Centres), and by Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa) - Size, Share, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2021 - 2028

About Us:

Coherent Market Insights is a global market intelligence and consulting organization focused on assisting our plethora of clients achieve transformational growth by helping them make critical business decisions. We are headquartered in India, having sales office at global financial capital in the U.S. and sales consultants in United Kingdom and Japan. Our client base includes players from across various business verticals in over 57 countries worldwide. We create value for clients through our highly reliable and accurate reports. We are also committed in playing a leading role in offering insights in various sectors post-COVID-19 and continue to deliver measurable, sustainable results for our clients.

Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter



CONTACT: Mr. Shah Senior Client Partner  Business Development Coherent Market Insights Phone: US: +1-206-701-6702 UK: +44-020-8133-4027 Japan: +81-050-5539-1737 India: +91-848-285-0837 Email: sales@coherentmarketinsights.com Website: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com




ReportLinker

Healthcare Discount Plan Market Research Report by Service (Alternative Medicines, Chiropractic Care, and Dental Care), Deployment Model, End User, Region (Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa) - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19

New York, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Healthcare Discount Plan Market Research Report by Service, Deployment Model, End User, Region - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06303709/?utm_source=GNW



The Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market size was estimated at USD 22.09 billion in 2021 and expected to reach USD 25.98 billion in 2022, and is projected to grow at a CAGR 17.85% to reach USD 59.19 billion by 2027.



Market Statistics:

The report provides market sizing and forecast across 7 major currencies - USD, EUR, JPY, GBP, AUD, CAD, and CHF. It helps organization leaders make better decisions when currency exchange data is readily available. In this report, the years 2019 and 2020 are considered historical years, 2021 as the base year, 2022 as the estimated year, and years from 2023 to 2027 are considered the forecast period.



Market Segmentation & Coverage:

This research report categorizes the Healthcare Discount Plan to forecast the revenues and analyze the trends in each of the following sub-markets:



Based on Service, the market was studied across Alternative Medicines, Chiropractic Care, Dental Care, Health Advocate, Hearing Aids, Nurse Services, Podiatry Plans, Prescription Drugs, Virtual Visits, Vision Care, Vitamins & Supplements, and Wellness Plans.



Based on Deployment Model, the market was studied across Cumulative Discounts on Premiums, Discounts for Family Member, and No Claim Bonus.



Based on End User, the market was studied across Healthcare Payers, Healthcare Providers, Patients, and Vendor.



Based on Region, the market was studied across Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa. The Americas is further studied across Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and United States. The United States is further studied across California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The Asia-Pacific is further studied across Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. The Europe, Middle East & Africa is further studied across France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom.



Cumulative Impact of COVID-19:

COVID-19 is an incomparable global public health emergency that has affected almost every industry, and the long-term effects are projected to impact the industry growth during the forecast period. Our ongoing research amplifies our research framework to ensure the inclusion of underlying COVID-19 issues and potential paths forward. The report delivers insights on COVID-19 considering the changes in consumer behavior and demand, purchasing patterns, re-routing of the supply chain, dynamics of current market forces, and the significant interventions of governments. The updated study provides insights, analysis, estimations, and forecasts, considering the COVID-19 impact on the market.



Cumulative Impact of 2022 Russia Ukraine Conflict:

We continuously monitor and update reports on political and economic uncertainty due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Negative impacts are significantly foreseen globally, especially across Eastern Europe, European Union, Eastern & Central Asia, and the United States. This contention has severely affected lives and livelihoods and represents far-reaching disruptions in trade dynamics. The potential effects of ongoing war and uncertainty in Eastern Europe are expected to have an adverse impact on the world economy, with especially long-term harsh effects on Russia.This report uncovers the impact of demand & supply, pricing variants, strategic uptake of vendors, and recommendations for Healthcare Discount Plan market considering the current update on the conflict and its global response.



Competitive Strategic Window:

The Competitive Strategic Window analyses the competitive landscape in terms of markets, applications, and geographies to help the vendor define an alignment or fit between their capabilities and opportunities for future growth prospects. It describes the optimal or favorable fit for the vendors to adopt successive merger and acquisition strategies, geography expansion, research & development, and new product introduction strategies to execute further business expansion and growth during a forecast period.



FPNV Positioning Matrix:

The FPNV Positioning Matrix evaluates and categorizes the vendors in the Healthcare Discount Plan Market based on Business Strategy (Business Growth, Industry Coverage, Financial Viability, and Channel Support) and Product Satisfaction (Value for Money, Ease of Use, Product Features, and Customer Support) that aids businesses in better decision making and understanding the competitive landscape.



Market Share Analysis:

The Market Share Analysis offers the analysis of vendors considering their contribution to the overall market. It provides the idea of its revenue generation into the overall market compared to other vendors in the space. It provides insights into how vendors are performing in terms of revenue generation and customer base compared to others. Knowing market share offers an idea of the size and competitiveness of the vendors for the base year. It reveals the market characteristics in terms of accumulation, fragmentation, dominance, and amalgamation traits.



Competitive Scenario:

The Competitive Scenario provides an outlook analysis of the various business growth strategies adopted by the vendors. The news covered in this section deliver valuable thoughts at the different stage while keeping up-to-date with the business and engage stakeholders in the economic debate. The competitive scenario represents press releases or news of the companies categorized into Merger & Acquisition, Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership, New Product Launch & Enhancement, Investment & Funding, and Award, Recognition, & Expansion. All the news collected help vendor to understand the gaps in the marketplace and competitors strength and weakness thereby, providing insights to enhance product and service.



Company Usability Profiles:

The report profoundly explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market, including Access One Consumer Health, Inc., Alliance Healthcard of Florida, Inc., American Dental Care Partners, Inc., Ameriplan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, CAREINGTON International Corporation, Cigna, Coverdell, DentalPlans.com, Inc., Discounts by Design, Freshbenies, Humana, Inc., New Benefits, Ltd., Sams West, Inc., United Health Group, and Xpress Healthcare.



The report provides insights on the following pointers:

1. Market Penetration: Provides comprehensive information on the market offered by the key players

2. Market Development: Provides in-depth information about lucrative emerging markets and analyze penetration across mature segments of the markets

3. Market Diversification: Provides detailed information about new product launches, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments

4. Competitive Assessment & Intelligence: Provides an exhaustive assessment of market shares, strategies, products, certification, regulatory approvals, patent landscape, and manufacturing capabilities of the leading players

5. Product Development & Innovation: Provides intelligent insights on future technologies, R&D activities, and breakthrough product developments



The report answers questions such as:

1. What is the market size and forecast of the Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market?

6. What is the market share of the leading vendors in the Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market?

7. What modes and strategic moves are considered suitable for entering the Global Healthcare Discount Plan Market?

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06303709/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



__________________________

Story continues

CONTACT: Clare: clare@reportlinker.com US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001




ReportLinker

Healthcare Reimbursement Market Research Report by Claim (Fully Paid and Underpaid), Payer, Service Provider, Region (Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa) - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19

New York, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Healthcare Reimbursement Market Research Report by Claim, Payer, Service Provider, Region - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06303727/?utm_source=GNW



The Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market size was estimated at USD 6,291.78 billion in 2021 and expected to reach USD 6,855.52 billion in 2022, and is projected to grow at a CAGR 9.21% to reach USD 10,677.41 billion by 2027.



Market Statistics:

The report provides market sizing and forecast across 7 major currencies - USD, EUR, JPY, GBP, AUD, CAD, and CHF. It helps organization leaders make better decisions when currency exchange data is readily available. In this report, the years 2019 and 2020 are considered historical years, 2021 as the base year, 2022 as the estimated year, and years from 2023 to 2027 are considered the forecast period.



Market Segmentation & Coverage:

This research report categorizes the Healthcare Reimbursement to forecast the revenues and analyze the trends in each of the following sub-markets:



Based on Claim, the market was studied across Fully Paid and Underpaid.



Based on Payer, the market was studied across Private Payers and Public Payers.



Based on Service Provider, the market was studied across Diagnostic Laboratories, Hospitals, and Physician Office.



Based on Region, the market was studied across Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa. The Americas is further studied across Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and United States. The United States is further studied across California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The Asia-Pacific is further studied across Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. The Europe, Middle East & Africa is further studied across France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom.



Cumulative Impact of COVID-19:

COVID-19 is an incomparable global public health emergency that has affected almost every industry, and the long-term effects are projected to impact the industry growth during the forecast period. Our ongoing research amplifies our research framework to ensure the inclusion of underlying COVID-19 issues and potential paths forward. The report delivers insights on COVID-19 considering the changes in consumer behavior and demand, purchasing patterns, re-routing of the supply chain, dynamics of current market forces, and the significant interventions of governments. The updated study provides insights, analysis, estimations, and forecasts, considering the COVID-19 impact on the market.



Cumulative Impact of 2022 Russia Ukraine Conflict:

We continuously monitor and update reports on political and economic uncertainty due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Negative impacts are significantly foreseen globally, especially across Eastern Europe, European Union, Eastern & Central Asia, and the United States. This contention has severely affected lives and livelihoods and represents far-reaching disruptions in trade dynamics. The potential effects of ongoing war and uncertainty in Eastern Europe are expected to have an adverse impact on the world economy, with especially long-term harsh effects on Russia.This report uncovers the impact of demand & supply, pricing variants, strategic uptake of vendors, and recommendations for Healthcare Reimbursement market considering the current update on the conflict and its global response.



Competitive Strategic Window:

The Competitive Strategic Window analyses the competitive landscape in terms of markets, applications, and geographies to help the vendor define an alignment or fit between their capabilities and opportunities for future growth prospects. It describes the optimal or favorable fit for the vendors to adopt successive merger and acquisition strategies, geography expansion, research & development, and new product introduction strategies to execute further business expansion and growth during a forecast period.



FPNV Positioning Matrix:

The FPNV Positioning Matrix evaluates and categorizes the vendors in the Healthcare Reimbursement Market based on Business Strategy (Business Growth, Industry Coverage, Financial Viability, and Channel Support) and Product Satisfaction (Value for Money, Ease of Use, Product Features, and Customer Support) that aids businesses in better decision making and understanding the competitive landscape.



Market Share Analysis:

The Market Share Analysis offers the analysis of vendors considering their contribution to the overall market. It provides the idea of its revenue generation into the overall market compared to other vendors in the space. It provides insights into how vendors are performing in terms of revenue generation and customer base compared to others. Knowing market share offers an idea of the size and competitiveness of the vendors for the base year. It reveals the market characteristics in terms of accumulation, fragmentation, dominance, and amalgamation traits.



Competitive Scenario:

The Competitive Scenario provides an outlook analysis of the various business growth strategies adopted by the vendors. The news covered in this section deliver valuable thoughts at the different stage while keeping up-to-date with the business and engage stakeholders in the economic debate. The competitive scenario represents press releases or news of the companies categorized into Merger & Acquisition, Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership, New Product Launch & Enhancement, Investment & Funding, and Award, Recognition, & Expansion. All the news collected help vendor to understand the gaps in the marketplace and competitors strength and weakness thereby, providing insights to enhance product and service.



Company Usability Profiles:

The report profoundly explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market, including Aetna Inc., AgileHealthInsurance, Allianz, Aviva Life Insurance Company India Ltd., Blue Cross Blue Shield Association., BNP Paribas, Care Health Insurance Limited, Centene Corporation, CMS.gov, CVS Health, Healthcare Reimbursement Services, Inc., IFFCO Tokio General Insurance, Magma HDI Insurance, Medica, Niva Bupa Health Insurance Company Limited, Onsurity Technologies Pvt Ltd., Reliance Nippon Life Insurance Company Limited, The Oriental Insurance Company, UnitedHealth Group, and Wellcare Health Plans, Inc..



The report provides insights on the following pointers:

1. Market Penetration: Provides comprehensive information on the market offered by the key players

2. Market Development: Provides in-depth information about lucrative emerging markets and analyze penetration across mature segments of the markets

3. Market Diversification: Provides detailed information about new product launches, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments

4. Competitive Assessment & Intelligence: Provides an exhaustive assessment of market shares, strategies, products, certification, regulatory approvals, patent landscape, and manufacturing capabilities of the leading players

5. Product Development & Innovation: Provides intelligent insights on future technologies, R&D activities, and breakthrough product developments



The report answers questions such as:

1. What is the market size and forecast of the Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market?

6. What is the market share of the leading vendors in the Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market?

7. What modes and strategic moves are considered suitable for entering the Global Healthcare Reimbursement Market?

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06303727/?utm_source=GNW



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ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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CONTACT: Clare: clare@reportlinker.com US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001




Jushi Holdings Inc.

BOCA RATON, Fla., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jushi Holdings Inc. (Jushi or the Company) (CSE: JUSH ) ( OTCQX: JUSHF ), a vertically integrated, multi-state cannabis operator, announced that Kim Eastman, Vice President of Manufacturing, will be participating in the Cannabis Conference Presented by Cannabis Business Times at Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Ms. Eastman is scheduled to participate in a panel discussion entitled, How to Build Out and Set Up an Extraction Facility beginning at 10:00 a.m. PT on Tuesday, August 23, 2022. To register for the event, please click here.



For more information about the conference, please contact Jushis Investor Relations at investors@jushico.com.

About Jushi Holdings Inc.

We are a vertically integrated cannabis company led by an industry-leading management team. In the United States, Jushi is focused on building a multi-state portfolio of branded cannabis assets through opportunistic acquisitions, distressed workouts, and competitive applications. Jushi strives to maximize shareholder value while delivering high-quality products across all levels of the cannabis ecosystem. For more information, visit jushico.com or our social media channels, Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , and LinkedIn .

For further information, please contact:



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ellen@mattio.com




Female students flocked back to Auburn University late last week bearing their sororitys letters and big smiles as Recruitment Weekthats what sorority people call it instead of rushkicked off Friday.

The roads surrounding the Village Housing Community, the Auburn Recreation and Wellness Center and Starbucks are now packed with sorority members and potential new members.

Downtown boutiques have also gotten busier as the young women prepare for this important week.

This weekend has definitely picked up a lot because summers are slower, said Chloe Floyd, general manager for Behind the Glass, of the sorority-inspired bump in business. They love to shop. Theyre very fashionable women.

During rush, there have been three different in-person rounds since COVID-19. Each round has a different dress-code: T-shirt and skirts, summer-dresses, and then all-black dresses paired with the perfect heel.

Behind the Glass has been posting Instagram Reels and TikToks to help prospective sorority members who are from out-of-state or may not know anyone in Greek life to answer their questions about the perfect outfit.

We definitely noticed some moms who are out-of-state where their daughters thought they packed all the perfect stuff to go through rush and are actually missing things, said Floyd. Moms will panic-buy for their daughters, which is really sweet.

Other downtown boutiques such as Elisabet Boutique, Therapy, Ellie Clothing and Charming Oaks also have plenty of options for Recruitment outfits.

College girls in general help downtown for restaurants and boutiques in general, Floyd said. You know, thats our bread and butter.

Recruitment Week wrap up on Saturday as the excitement from Bid Day will take over the Neville Arena and the Village Housing Community.
Lee County District Attorney Jessica Ventiere has received a national award for her work in prosecuting the no-body, cold case of Derrill Rick Ennis, who was found guilty for the murder of 24-year-old Lori Ann Slesinski of Auburn.

Ventiere was recognized by the Association of Government Attorneys in Capital Litigation for outstanding work in capital litigation and complex homicide prosecution.

In 2006, Slesinski was reported missing to Auburn police, but she was never found. In April of 2022 after years of investigation, Ennis was convicted by a Lee County jury of two counts of capital murder despite Slesinskis body never being recovered.

Ventiere said last month in an interview with the Opelika-Auburn News that a capital murder case without a body is the rarest of the rare of cases.

Ennis was certainly a risk to take, but it was worth it, she said. We knew it was him. It wasnt going to get any better even if we found Lori.

She said the most difficult part of the case was trying to put it all together in the right order for the jury to see the entire picture.

This is the most complicated case Ive had in my entire career, said Ventiere, who said she became a prosecutor because her grandmother was murdered in the 1980s and the case was never solved.

She said her mother, Deborah McRae, was extremely invested in the case and was over the moon proud to see another family get justice.

Members of the team that investigated the Slesinski cold case included Alabama SBI special agents Mark Whitaker and John J.W. Barnes.

Jessica did a fantastic job prosecuting this case, Barnes said. I was in the courtroom, I watched it, I listened to her presentation, and thats the way you do it.

Whitaker was also in the courtroom throughout the two-week trial.

Shes just unbelievable, Whitaker said of Ventiere. Her strategy in court is some of the best Ive ever seen, and Ive seen a lot.
Photo: The Canadian Press In this handout photo taken from video and released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022, a general view of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station in territory under Russian military control, southeastern Ukraine. The Russian military said that Ukrainian shelling of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant on Sunday caused a power surge and fire and forced staff to lower output from two reactors. (Russian Defense Ministry Press Service via AP)

The Biden administration announced another $1 billion in new military aid for Ukraine on Monday, pledging what will be the biggest yet delivery of rockets, ammunition and other arms straight from Department of Defense stocks for Ukrainian forces.

The U.S. pledge of a massive new shipment of arms comes as analysts warned that Russia was moving troops and equipment in the direction of the southern port cities to stave off a Ukrainian counteroffensive.

The aid includes additional rockets for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, as well as thousands of artillery rounds, mortar systems, Javelins and other ammunition and equipment. Military commanders and other U.S. officials say the HIMARS and artillery systems have been crucial in Ukraines ongoing fight to try to prevent Russia from taking more ground.

The latest announcement brings the total U.S. security assistance committed to Ukraine by the Biden administration to roughly $9 billion since Russian troops invaded in late February.

At every stage of this conflict, we have been focused on getting the Ukrainians what they need, depending on the evolving conditions on the battlefield, Colin Kahl, undersecretary of defense for policy, said in announcing the new weapons shipment.

Until now, the largest single security assistance package announcement was for $1 billion on June 15. But that aid included $350 million in presidential drawdown authority, and another $650 million under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative.

Monday's package allows the U.S. to deliver weapons systems and other equipment more quickly since it takes them off the Defense Department shelves.

For the last four months of the war, Russia has concentrated on capturing the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, where pro-Moscow separatists have controlled some territory as self-proclaimed republics for eight years. Russian forces have made gradual headway in the region while launching missile and rocket attacks to curtail the movements of Ukrainian fighters elsewhere.
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Americas railroads go far beyond the thrills and deep passion of train buffs. Even in a day when expansive space travel dominates the headlines, trains journeying along historic routes still fulfill their daily mission carrying much of the nations cargo from point of origin to point of distribution.

Norfolk Southern Corp. is one of the premier railroad companies ensuring that such a deeply rooted tradition continues to serve todays economic engine, and it is using Auburn University students and graduates to help do so.

Auburn and Norfolk Southern have developed a thriving partnership to cultivate job opportunities for students, well-qualified talent in a variety of roles for Norfolk Southern and various other exchanges designed to help invest in one another.

A Norfolk Southern spokesman says the principles of the Auburn Creed, a set of principles by which all Auburn students pledge to honor, are mirrored in doing so.

Students coming out of Auburns Harbert College of Business are well prepared when it comes to professionalism, communication and knowing themselves as an individual, said Jason Scott, Norfolk Southern senior manager of talent acquisition.

Norfolk Southern is a rail industry giant, operating on 19,300 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia. It is a major transporter of industrial products, including agriculture, forest and consumer products; chemicals and metals; construction materials; coal; and automobiles and automotive parts.

It serves every major port on the East Coast between New York City and Jacksonville, Florida; multiple private terminals; the Gulf ports of Mobile, New Orleans and St. Bernard; Great Lakes ports; and numerous river ports.

Harbert College of Business, meanwhile, aims to prepare not only a good intern or entry-level employee, Scott said, but it also instills a mindset in that they are future leaders through its classes, especially the capstone course, which is focused on ethical leadership.

Beyond the classroom

Hired employees connected to Harbert come ready to work, Scott said, something the company values greatly in its partnership with Auburn.

I would say Auburn University graduates go into their careers with the work ethic and desire to grow as a professional because they know their worth and what they can accomplish, Scott said. When looking at why Harbert College of Business students are an asset, Auburn also places a huge emphasis on involvement.

He praised Harberts efforts to teach students both in and beyond the classroom.

You probably wont find a student that is not involved in an organization related to their major or interests. That involvement teaches real-world experiences and provides an opportunity to lead others. Overall, Harbert does a really good job of developing its students, which I mainly contribute to the professional development classes...and just the culture created by the students and our mentors, Scott said. Auburn continues to produce top talent.

Edward Reynolds, Harbert corporate and foundation relations officer, noted a diverse value of the expanding partnership.

Harbert College is thrilled to partner with Norfolk Southern, he said. As a leading global transportation provider, the company has a wide range of exciting opportunities to help our students begin and grow their professional careers.

It is also reassuring to know that Norfolk Southern recognizes the value and importance of education. The company recently created a scholarship to support Harbert College students, Reynolds said. We are grateful for their investment.

I know that students and their families will also appreciate the philanthropic support Norfolk Southern provides via its scholarship.

A familiar culture

Scott pointed to another reason he sees success in the Harbert-Norfolk Southern partnership.

Auburn is also such a tight-knit community. A lot of students look for that community culture in a company and want to contribute to that wherever they work, Scott said. I think Auburn students can find that here at Norfolk Southern and many students would be attracted to that.

Is there a common trait among the Auburn students and graduates hired?

I think about the traits mentioned in the Auburn Creed, Scott said. Students are taught about the creed all the time and everything the school does aims to instill those traits in their students. Auburn students are not afraid of hard work, and they value honesty and integrity.
but that batgirl is the real problem, huh?

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Damn it, i didn't save the tik tok but i laughed my ass off the other day when this guy recreated the Discovery meeting with the execs afraid of her bat-boobies and bat-jayjay and how the Flash looked a lot more "family friendly" and then new Ezra reports came in.

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WB cancelled batgirl because they didn't want to "damage the DC brand" but somehow this mf gets their movie released make it make sense

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Damage to the brand??? The brand is literally dead in an ditch getting eaten by coyotes.

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they said she had a perfect womb



What a fucking creepy thing to say to anyone but especially an 18 year old. Wtffff

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Handmaid's Tale. OfEzra

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And now they have been charged with felony burglary in Vermont? Broke into an unoccupied house and stole the liquor there? What is going on with them?

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But there's always people willing to follow the cult:



Meet Ezra Miller. The one tabloids don't want u talking about cuz they want you to buy into their lies for clicks, likes & $$. Ezra Miller chose to help a couple abuse victims & is paying a price no one should have to pay. Kindness should not cost u ur reputation. #EzraMiller pic.twitter.com/BWYzRqHlqC  Incrediblegecko (@incrediblegecko) June 28, 2022 Ezra has some serious mental issues.But there's always people willing to follow the cult:

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I feel like tabloids/media arent really talking about their abuse and violence?? I dont think any of this recent stuff is known to the general public.



Edited at 2022-08-09 12:58 am (UTC)

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I can't believe stans are willing to overlooks how he has beaten up stans. Like what kind of mental gymnastics?

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realized how manipulative they were after they said she had a perfect womb



Ew wtf

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This is only the stuff we know of. I can only imagine what's not being talked about.

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Nah, it's the way that WB is taking NONE of these allegations seriously and have the absolute arrogance to continue with The Flash movie despite everything that come into light about Ezra for years.



Doubly insulting that Batgirl was canned for legit reason other than presumably not wanting a WOC-led superhero film, but act like that they can benefit regardless when The Flash is released and cut their losses there.



Ezra needs to be captured and put away since YESTERDAY, gotdamn.

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I swear, in Brazil every time one of the Ezra stories comes out, soon after a comics blog posts something like: but wait, the other person was in the wrong (like there were nazis, the kid he groomed was being abused at home, the woman with the kids in a place with guns left in the open was getting out of an abusive relationship). So that makes me think theyre pretty much banking in making a lot of money overseas if they cant make Ezra work in the US

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I think it's more of a world wide thing. They are banking on comic neckbeards and reddit basement dwellers that won't give a shit about what they have done.



Edited at 2022-08-09 03:33 am (UTC)

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i noticed that too, like why the fuck is that dc stan twitter account so into rehabilitating ezra no matter what, they spin more tales and takes than any pr company, i actually had to explain to my friends who don't know much about ezra what was going on.

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Right?! Do they plan on not having a press tour because even if WB embargos questions about the MULTIPLE charges and allegations against Ezra, how can they really expect to ignore this?

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The FBI executed a search warrant today at President Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, the former president confirms to CNN in a lengthy statement.  Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) August 8, 2022 Sorry to go OT already but YALL

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Best news

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I love that for him.

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Fucking finally



We need a party post



Edited at 2022-08-08 11:21 pm (UTC)

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I want audio and video leaked

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Part of me wants the Succession FBI music raid to play, but that show is too good for that shit bag.



Edited at 2022-08-09 12:44 am (UTC)

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Great day for criminals!!

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I need a timeline of when and how they have been able to travel EVERYWHERE despite being on wanted lists



Edited at 2022-08-08 11:15 pm (UTC)

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they said she had a perfect womb



I physically recoiled after reading this D:

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Hawaii, Vermont and Iceland? What in the live-action Carmen Sandiego hell is going on here

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My fucking thoughts exactly!! My mexican dad gets a pat down since 2003 any time he flies because his dumb ass forgot to take out a company lighter handed out at a meeting and this guy on assault, damage, abduction, drug, and CULT behavior just cant be tracked? It should be too easy if hes using a private jet. So Imagine being your shift at the airport and this bozo checks in and nothing on your screen flags they cant board. I would riot like that clip of someone playing church music on a flight if I looked up and saw them being my seat mate lmao.

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I know right??



Of course our timeline would have a Bizarro Flash cult leader who grooms children, assaults women, and sports gruesome coke toenails just popping up all over the world wreaking havoc.



No joke though, it's insane he hasn't been locked up already for everyone's safety. And fuck those movie execs.



Edited at 2022-08-09 12:00 am (UTC)

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um I did not need to imagine a coke TOEnail



:(

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how does he even have the money for this?? i'm so confused

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I know this is not the point, but even besides how fucking creepy it is its such a dumb thing to say. How would you even know the state of her womb, did you take an a ultrasound and do a pelvic?



They are just wtf. I cant believe WB/DC are still trying to run with them but let Batgirl go. Wtf.

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it's a manipulative faux spiritual superpower. imo he was trying to groom her.

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this is like the barbie movie casting announcements, except it's ezra visiting different states/countries/continents one week after another.

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well, this "cult" has been in place since at least March 2020, but it's probably all coming to light as everything else piles on

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What a convenient time to get people into a quote... the month a pandemic goes full blown



i am creeped out

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I don't understand how they have the time to be doing all this.

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wasn't the flash their last major project? they currently have all the time (and money) in the world

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It's not like there are a lot of projects laying around waiting for them.

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Ezra needs to be stopped. Theyre also hoarding guns too like whats next? Waco? This is the basket WB wants to put all their eggs in 

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she had a perfect womb, that her family was holding her back, and would twist every word of hers.





i'm going to vomit. so a sex cult, cool

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I feel like 90% of cults start with a man who wants to get away with sexually abusing women.

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Love when a woman knows her own worth and won't compromise on it.

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Shes right. Justice for Neve. Justice for Sydney.

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well that's brave, I don't think many people would do that tbh

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I think she wanted a producing credit

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I'd actually rather she get a producer credit instead of continuing the character.

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They are morons for not paying her her worth. Good luck getting people to come to the movies for the next one without her.

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No  . Why did it take so long for something to be said? Weve all been thinking shes returning for weeks.

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I didn't trust that tweet one bit. Smh.

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This is why I dont usually trust people. When I do, tragedies happen.

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In true ONTD fashion I didnt read the post and just assumed this was an interview about how she rejected the offer and then got a higher offer and signed on anyway as weve been led to believe, so after finally reading this post because of your comment Im devastated  I really wanted her to return, theres no scream without Neve. But good for her for knowing her worth and standing her ground, they never wouldve done this if she was a man.

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Too right. Shes the face of that franchise and should be paid appropriately for it.

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well if it's in People, now it's official



I was hoping this "is she/isn't she?" stuff would mean a secret cameo after the credits or something

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Glad she is spelling out exactly what the issue is so that there is no confusion. They are dumb for not paying her.

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Eh my only thing about this is that....she really isn't needed anymore in the franchise. Like she was a guest star in the last movie and you could've deleted all her scenes and it still works. I kept thinking well at least David and Courtney added something to the script but Neve was just there because of legacy.



Like I'm not gonna be sad not seeing her in the next movie. In general how is Sidney Prescott not suffering beyond complex post traumatic stress disorder lol!!



I enjoy all the movies but Sidney's story really should've ended at 3 where it clearly closed the chapter on her journey.

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The last movie wasnt very good though, so I dont think it can be said Neve isnt needed because she wasnt in it much.

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I agree that it wasn't that good but still I kept thinking she's only here cause they want her to be here. Better script or not, I just didn't see the point of her character other than just cause it's expected.

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Agreed, the writers don't know where to take her character and they also better not kill her off.

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Meh the last movie wasnt great but her in it still improved the scenes she was in. And regardless If they wrote the script including her (even if only for a few scenes) and wouldnt pay her what shes worth - then Im fully team - #teamneve . Pay her what shes worth tbh

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Shameful. Good for her for knowing her worth and not settling for less. People in what seems like every industry take way too many liberties when it comes to salaries and fair compensation for women.

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Welp, guess we're stuck with Sam now 

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Secondly, let poor Sidney rest. I know slasher movies dont strive for any kinda believability or realism, but at this point the plot armor is beyond. Sid is too smart to keep putting herself back in the mix, especially with kids, husband, etc. Plus I dont wanna see her come back just to get killed, or become the killer cause shes oh so traumatized.



Maybe bring her back respectfully as a legacy character in Scream 10 or the inevitable reboot or something, like Jamie Lee Curtis. (although those movies are a whole other kinda mess)







Edited at 2022-08-08 11:40 pm (UTC) Im a huge Scream fan, and I think its definitely for the best. First of all, if they arent giving her the respect ($$$) she deserves, when she is THE ultimate final girl and the literal star of the 25+ year franchise, then BYE!Secondly, let poor Sidney rest. I know slasher movies dont strive for any kinda believability or realism, but at this point the plot armor is beyond. Sid is too smart to keep putting herself back in the mix, especially with kids, husband, etc. Plus I dont wanna see her come back just to get killed, or become the killer cause shes oh so traumatized.Maybe bring her back respectfully as a legacy character in Scream 10 or the inevitable reboot or something, like Jamie Lee Curtis. (although those movies are a whole other kinda mess)

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just wait ten years and make the reboot reboot about her daughters! THEN it would make sense for sid to show up again. now she just looks nuts for putting herself in this predicament yet again.

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"Secondly, let poor Sidney rest. I know slasher movies dont strive for any kinda believability or realism, but at this point the plot armor is beyond. Sid is too smart to keep putting herself back in the mix, especially with kids, husband, etc. Plus I dont wanna see her come back just to get killed, or become the killer cause shes oh so traumatized."



Pretty much all my thoughts!

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Im proud of her

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I want to believe but hes a rich, white dummy. Nothing will happen to him

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at the very least, I will celebrate tr*mp having a bad day and probably peeing his pants when the FBI rolled up

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I mean they got Weinstein and that Jinx guy.

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One would argue that the Jinx guy got himself.

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My real hope is that the stress will kill him.

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I don't trust the US government (or any government) enough to think he's going to get any real punishment so I'm hoping all these subpoenas, Mick Mulvaney speaking to the J6 committee, the headlines will give him a massive public mental breakdown where he goes completely unhinged and takes everyone in his circle down with him. He's already not listening to his new lawyers when they tell him to stop talking to former staffers bc they're reporting back to the Committee.



Edited at 2022-08-09 01:45 am (UTC)

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Even if he's convicted, I don't think he'll do jail time. He's a former president, with secret service detail. He's not going to go to an actual prison. At best, he'll be under house arrest.



My theory is that he'll skip the country before anything comes down and he'll just live out the rest of his days somewhere he won't be extradited.

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You're not helping.

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Was waiting for this post!



I dont think hell face any real consequences ever but Im delighted that he is having a MISERABLE Monday night right now!

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yeah i don't think he'll face any repercussions but hopefully the stress causes him to have a massive heart attack at the very least.

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the real consequence that should have happened was the impeachment-- that would mean he could never run again. I support whatever needs to happen to ensure he is never allowed to run again. That removes SO much of his power.

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It really says something about his presidency that I read your comment about "the impeachment" and I asked myself, "Yeah, but which time?" Ugh.

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I had thought the GOP might've supported the impeachment simply because then THEY could run themselves, not having to deal with him running.

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Lock him up

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I swear, 90% of my gifs are from ONTD

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Is your avatar Swiper from Dora the Explorer in a hot dog costume lmaooooo I'm screaming

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this is a beautiful comment

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I can't read the phrase "under siege" anymore without thinking of Ram Ranch tbh

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Thank you for this. I was too lazy to make a post.

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can't believe the FBI would embarrass donald like this in front of his new wig  Erin Ryan (@morninggloria) August 8, 2022

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ugly straw haired bitch

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yes.... on cat day! ! Blessed be!

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LMAO



It sounds like they're looking for 15 boxes of classified docs that he was supposed to turn in before he left the WH.







Edited at 2022-08-08 11:42 pm (UTC)

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Oops at my reply.

I wonder what's in those docs....



Edited at 2022-08-08 11:45 pm (UTC)

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lol for what it's worth, I'm also ready (and yet scared) for the new Better Call Saul episode

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the password to WH wi-fi

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The Aliens phone number.

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NSFW T and Putin slash.

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Lolololol get rekt, bitch.

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Where's the dancing guy gif we use in Katie Holmes posts

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Lmao the glowstick guy!

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Yasss there he is! This post needed him.

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This will always be a gay Corey Stoll to me and nobody can convince me otherwise.

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Hes in likeevery post

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I love how everybody knows exactly what you are talking about

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Omg please find something. Anything.

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Doubt anything will happen because of this, but I do love to see it! Doubt anything will happen because of this, but I do love to see it!

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lol what is this gif from?

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mystery science theater 3000!

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Mystery Science Theater 3000, episode The Final Sacrifice, iirc! One of the best ones!

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I only skimmed his statement but I did legitimately laugh out loud when I saw him reference Hillary Clinton.

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that and him saying that democrats broke into his house lmao

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Fingers crossed for a Mussolini ending 

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possibly without the grandchildren becoming elected politicians half a century later.

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Calling it now- the safe the FBI broke in to along with a shitload of real evidence, has the Russian peeped tape.

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Jesus, please be with the FBI agents who have to watch those tapes, in this their golden darkest hour. Give them strength and several buckets to vomit into. Amen.

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This may well come to pass, but it is not evident in the data Ive reviewed so far.

The U.S. Energy Information Agency (EIA), has forecasted in their most recent edition of the Short Term Energy Outlook-STEO, a rise in U.S. production of about 800K BOEPD by the end of next year.

The shale drilling boom that ended in March of 2020, as the full effects of the pandemic hit the economy, contributed to a surplus of oil in storage that kept prices down. Richly supplied both in the U.S. and globally, the market took the spot delivery prices down to unprecedented levels. In April 2020, the spot price actually went negative for the first time ever.

As the economy recovered, inventory levels declined, bottoming out in March of this year, at about 415 mm bbls across all PADD districts.

Not only did storage decline, but U.S. production declined sharply in this period as the low prices made much of it uneconomic to drill. Rigs were stacked like cordwood in the outskirts of Midland, with the active rig count falling to 252 by June 2020. As we moved into the third quarter, WTI prices surpassed $40 and rigs began to go back to work. Over the course of 2021/22, another 500+ rigs were added with about 40% of that coming this year as drillers moved to take advantage of still low rig rates and WTI prices in the $80-$120 range. A combination that doesnt often present itself.

Russias invasion of Ukraine sent oil above $100 per barrel, causing gasoline and diesel prices to soar and consumers to suffer a lot of pain at the pump. At the same time, the recovering economy and the loosening of Covid restrictions created a surge in travel, both on the open road and in the air. There has been an expectation from regulators and politicians that oil companies would take their increased revenues and hire more rigs to bring down prices. A practice that would have fit their former model of compound annual growth rate - CAGR, using borrowed capital, and nearly brought many of them to ruin in the years leading up to 2020.

Instead, the shale drillers, now wiser, have adopted a practice of capital restraint that has the objective of maintaining production at current levels with a slight bias to growth. Attending the JP Morgan Energy Conference in Houston last June, Pioneer Natural Resources, (NYSE:PXD) CEO was quoted addressing this issue in an Oil and Gas Journal article.

Were [Pioneer] only going to grow 5% per year; Ive been asked that in every meeting today, Sheffield told attendees at the June 22 event. Were not going to grow 7, 8, 9, 10, 12%," he said, noting that the company told the Biden administration the same thing when asked to increase production. "We said no to them also," Sheffield continued. "Were trying to get them to understand the model and the reasons the model changed," he said, in discussing a past model of boom-bust cycles in which the oil and gas industry responded by ramping up production that ended in oversupply.

Other CEOs have made similar commentary, stressing that their priority for capital allocation is not production growth, but the return of capital to shareholders. Another large shale driller, Devon Energy, (NYSE:DVN) has made the same commitment. Devon CEO, Rick Muncrief noted in a Bloomberg interview that the company would continue to be disciplined in capital allocation with a growth target for 2022 of ~5%.

What hasnt gotten a lot of attention is an external, natural limit to growth in shale production. Shale drillers in the lean times chose to develop their best locations to ensure payouts that would return more revenue than they cost to drill. (I discussed this trend in an earlier Oilprice article last May.) The industry calls these Tier I locations. The linked Rystad article notes the following in regard to remaining Tier I locations.

Taken together, the inventory size corresponds to 18-25 years of drilling at the pace expected in 2020. If Tier 1 activity returns to the record level of 2019, then we can have six-eight years of drilling capacity in the Eagle Ford and Bakken, and 11-15 years in the DJ Basin and Permian. In the Permian Basin, the total size of the remaining Tier 1 inventory is about 33,000 locations, assuming there are no changes in the current well spacing strategies.

Rystad

While a significant amount of Tier I acreage remains, there are signs the wells now being developed contained a higher mix of lower-tier rock. The chart below, compiled from the EIA-DPRs published data reveals a troubling trend in overall shale activity, with a particular focus on the Permian basin. The Permian basin contributes over half of U.S. shale production.

The DPR monthly report makes a simple calculation of individual well productivity per rig by dividing the production for that month (shown two months in arrears), by the number of active rigs. The data is revelatory in the following respects.

The blue line, representing all eight basins tabulated in the report, trends down over the last year, while the total rig count as reported by Baker Hughes is rising sharply. The orange line, representing the Permian basin, follows the same trajectory, with daily production declining per well by about 120 bbl per day over this time.

What is additionally noteworthy about this data is while production is declining as rigs are added - something that is a little counter-intuitive - the rates of monthly DUC-Drilled but Uncompleted wells and withdrawals are also declining. This is suggestive that the daily production rate per rig, already on the downslope, was boosted artificially by operators fracking an already drilled well to turn it inline.

I next turned to the EIA-914, the monthly report of all producing states put out by the agency. The 914 report also contains data 2-months in arrears, and in this case shows the data through May. I took all states producing more than 400K BOEPD and tracked their output.

Note-the Total U.S. line is plotted on the right-hand Y axis

What it shows is that across all key basins production has been relatively flat for most of the past year, and in particular for 2022. Since the Gulf of Mexico is included in this total there are some weather anomalies that can skew the overall data temporarily, with the same being true for onshore production in wintertime.

Your takeaway

We may yet add another 800K BOEPD by the end of next year as the EIA Short Term Energy Outlook-STEO suggests we may. You never want to say never until time passes. The data Ive reviewed says otherwise, however.

What this means for oil prices is yet unclear in the short term as for the last six weeks concerns about a possible recession have trimmed roughly $20 per barrel from the price of WTI and Brent. Longer term, if this trend toward lower well productivity bears out, we could see a sharp reversal higher, as shale output declines.

Many analyst firms have kept a YE-2022 exit price target above current levels, with Goldman Sachs the most bullish of all at $135 for Brent. If all of these things come together consumers could be in for more pain in the pocketbook, as tight supplies result in higher prices.

By David Messler for Oilprice.com

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Debates in Germany have resurfaced over whether Europe's biggest economyseverely hit by low Russian pipeline gas supplyshould consider lifting its ban on fracking, The Globe and Mail reports.

Fracking for shale gas in Germany has been banned since 2017.

Last month, Russia cut natural gas supply via Nord Stream to just 20% of the pipeline's capacity. The further reduction in deliveries began just days after Gazprom restarted the pipeline at 40% capacity after regular 10-day maintenance. Before that, Russian supply was reduced to 40% of Nord Stream's capacity, after Gazprom said a turbine sent to Canada for repairs had been held up by the Western sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. Canada sent the turbine to Germany, but it has not reached Russia yet.

Amid growing concerns about German energy and gas supply this winter and the potential massive fallout on major industries, such as the chemicals industry, political parties in Germany are now debating whether to waive the ban on fracking and at least allow exploration and testing.

Left-leaning parties, including the ruling Social Democrats and the Greens, are opposed to lifting the fracking ban, while conservative parties favor exploration in view of the coming winter shortages.

"The significant expansion of domestic natural-gas production will make us independent and restore our energy sovereignty," Michael Kruse, energy policy spokesman of the libertarian Free Democratic Party (FDP) told The Globe and Mail's Claudia Scholz.

Germany is thought to have shale gas reserves of more than two trillion cubic meters, or 20 times the country's annual gas consumption of 100 billion cubic meters, according to data from BVEG, the German Federal Association of Natural Gas, Petroleum and Geoenergy cited by The Globe and Mail.

Germany is also debating whether to end nuclear power generation at the end of 2022, as planned, in light of the gas crisis. Germany has three remaining nuclear power plants operating, and they should be shut by the end of this year under a plan the country adopted to stop the use of nuclear energy following the Fukushima disaster. Last week, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz signaled that "it could make sense" to keep its nuclear power plants operating.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Russian oil exports through the Druzhba pipeline via Ukraine were suspended in early August due to a problem with transit fee payments, Russian news agency Interfax reported on Tuesday, quoting a statement from Russias oil pipeline operator Transneft.

The southern leg of the Druzhba oil pipeline from Russia to Europe passes through Ukraine, and oil is being delivered to refineries in Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. The northern branch of the pipeline crosses Belarus and ships oil to Poland and Germany. Oil transit from Russia via the northern leg of the Druzhba pipeline continues, Interfax says.

Transneft says the reason for the suspension of pipeline oil exports via Ukraine is that a payment it had made to Ukraines Ukrtransnafta on July 22 for the transit fees for August didnt go through and was returned to Transnefts account on July 28.

The situation is complicated because European regulators havent come up yet with a unified position on how banks should act in various jurisdictions, and they havent developed a process to issue permits, either, Transneft says, as quoted by Interfax.

Therefore, Russian oil exports via Ukraine were halted on August 4, the company added.

The suspension of Russian oil exports via pipeline opens another confrontation between Russia and the EU on Russian energy deliveries to Europe.

The EU, when announcing the embargo on Russian oil importsto come into force at the end of this yearexempted imports of Russia crude and petroleum products via pipeline because several landlocked countries, such as Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, are highly dependent on pipeline oil supply from Russia. EU member states dependent on Russian pipeline oil were given a temporary exemption to import Russian crude via pipeline until the EU Council decides otherwise, but were not allowed to resell such crude oil and petroleum products to other Member States or third countries.

Now its Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia whose supplies from Russia have been cut. Russia has also cut off natural gas deliveries to several EU member states and has slashed supply via Nord Stream to Germany to just 20% of the gas pipelines capacity.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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The massive fire at a Cuban oil storage facility started by a lightning strike on Friday has now spread to a third storage tank as firefighters from three countries attempt to gain control of the inferno that has so far claimed the life of at least one person and injured over 125 others, the Associated Press reports.

Late on Friday, lightning struck one of eight tanks at Cubas oil storage facility at a supertanker base in the western province of Matanzas, where firefighterssome of whom are still reported missingstruggled to contain the blaze.

On Saturday, the fire spread to a second tank, setting off numerous explosions and causing the tank to collapse. By Monday, strong winds had fanned the flames from the explosion of the second tank, and a third tank caught fire.

The storage facilitys eight tanks hold oil for electricity generation. While there is no official estimate of the damage so far, some media reports suggest that the first tank affected contained some 883,000 cubic feet of fuel and was at 50% of its capacity.

So far, some 5,000 people have been evacuated from the region, which is approximately 55 miles east of the capital, Havana. Electrical storms also now threaten toxic showers, Cuban officials warned.

Early on Monday, the Ministry of Energy and Mining tweeted a desperate message: Right now the situation is very complex at the #Matanzas Supertanker Base. Explosions continue to occur. The place cannot be accessed.

Firefighters from Mexico and Venezuela have been flown in to help contain the blaze, while military forces are reportedly building barriers to contain oil spills, Reuters reports.

The last official statement from Cuban officials notes that 17 firefighters are missing and that it is impossible to conduct a search as the blaze continues.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com
Photo: The Canadian Press Activist and entertainer Jon Stewart embraces fellow advocate Susan Zeier of Sandusky, Ohio, before the Senate voted on a bill designed to help millions of veterans exposed to toxic substances during their military service.

Rosie Torres of Robstown, Texas, is no Washington lobbyist, but shes been making the long trek to Capitol Hill for some 13 years, knocking year after year on lawmakers doors. Her mission: Alert them  convince them  that something awful has been happening to Iraq and Afghanistan veterans as a result of constant exposure to toxic military burn pits.

Torres husband, Le Roy, suffers from constrictive bronchitis, a respiratory condition that narrowed his airways and made breathing difficult. Rosie is sure its from his exposure to burn pits on his base in Iraq. But last week, even with the Senate just hours away from boosting health and disability benefits for veterans like her husband, she still wasnt sure she had won over lawmakers, despite earlier votes indicating the bill was on the right track.

It was still too good to be true, Torres said. Even when my senators voted, I said, Something is up.'

Torres was among the veterans and family members camped out at the Capitol last week, refusing to leave until the Senate passed the bill by a final vote of 86-11. That vote, lopsided at the last, was a momentous victory for a movement that has been years in the making but gained serious traction only during the current Congress.

President Joe Biden is scheduled to sign the bill into law on Wednesday.

The White House ceremony culminates an effort that began with the vets themselves and their harrowing stories, eventually amplified for public attention by comedian-activist Jon Stewart and personally embraced by the president, who has voiced his suspicion that burn pits led to his elder sons death.

In the end, the bill received unanimous support from Democrats and a majority of Republicans despite its hefty price tag, estimated at roughly $280 billion over 10 years.

LET'S FULL-THROTTLE AND GET THIS GOING'

Another Texan, former Marine Tim Jensen, who served in Iraq in 2004 and 2005, was also part of the gathering outside the Capitol last week. He said he lost his best friend, Sgt. Frank Hazelwood, to lung cancer, and two other battalion colleagues to illnesses he attributes to serving near burn pits.

They were all cancers of the brain and the lungs, and these were not cancers typical of that age group, Jensen said.

He got actively involved some four years ago after a phone call with Torres, who had started an advocacy organization with her husband  Burn Pits 360. The organization serves as a clearinghouse for grim stories related by veterans and their families about the impact they believe burn pits have had on their lives.

What are these burn pits? Big, smelly and nothing anyone would want to breathe, they were commonly used by the military until several years ago to dispose of such things as chemicals, tires, plastics and medical and human waste.

Former Marine Jensen said a pivotal moment in the quest for federal help occurred when Stewart joined the effort, bringing the publicity that comes with celebrity attention.

Rosie Torres and Burn Pits 360 have been working on this for over 10 years and they were getting very little traction," Jensen said. "They needed some bigger push, right, to get it into a national conversation.

Then the White House invited Danielle Robinson, the widow of Sgt. 1st Class Heath Robinson of Ohio, to attend Bidens State of the Union address in March. During the address, Biden raised the possibility that being near burn pits led to the death of his son Beau.

We dont know for sure if a burn pit was the cause of his brain cancer, or the diseases of so many of our troops, Biden said in the speech. But Im committed to finding out everything we can.

Jensen said, Thats when we knew we now have the attention and lets full-throttle and get this thing going."

That certainly energized Democrats in the Senate and the House to move, said Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas, the ranking Republican on the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.

On the House side, Rep. Mark Takano, chairman of that chambers Committee on Veterans Affairs, announced in early 2021 that helping veterans who experienced toxic exposure would be one of the panel's priorities for the coming Congress. That was not long after Biden had taken the oath of office.

Takano, a California Democrat, recalled on the House floor last month how he briefed the president. He said Biden leaned over and started talking about Beau, who died from brain cancer at age 46. He had served in Iraq for about a year in 2008 and 2009.

It was during that meeting when I knew I had a partner in President Biden," Takano said.

The congressman was intent on avoiding a piecemeal approach. He didn't want the legislation to pit vets from one war against those of another in a fight for limited Department of Veterans Affairs resources.

The bill not only expands health and disability benefits for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans but contains provisions to aid more Vietnam-era vets exposed to Agent Orange. It also provides support to veterans exposed to water contamination at North Carolinas Camp LeJeune and to radiation in Palomares, Spain, site of one of the largest nuclear disasters in history, and Enewetak Atoll of the Marshall Islands, where the U.S. conducted numerous nuclear tests.

The House passed the first iteration of the bill in March. The vote was 256-174 with most Republicans opposing. They cited costs and the strain it would cause on a VA already struggling to meet current workloads.

DO YOUR DUTY AND PASS THIS

A few weeks after the House vote, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., joined Stewart, veterans advocates and Danielle Robinson for a news conference in which she described what it was like being with her husband, for whom the bill is named, in his final moments as he died from lung cancer.

I ask you to do your duty and pass this, she implored.

Schumer promised the bill would get a vote in the Senate. Everyone is going to have to show where they stand, and whose side they are on, he said.

The Senate was at work on its own version of the bill. Sen. Jon Tester of Montana, the Democratic chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, said the veterans groups were clear that the bill was the panel's No. 1 priority.

Tester had cooperative partners in Moran and Republican John Boozman of Arkansas, with their discussions focused on making sure the VA would be ready for the workload.

We were talking with the VA. ... Are we setting you up for failure? Is this something you can deliver on? Tester said. And they assured us they could. There were a few changes we had to make and we made them.

Those changes included staggering the start for some of the benefit enhancements and providing more flexibility for hiring staff. The changes also helped trim tens of billions of dollars in spending from the House version, giving more Republicans reason to support the final product once it went back to the House.

The slightly trimmed bill ended up passing both chambers with significant bipartisan support. But then lawmakers discovered it contained a revenue-related provision that had to originate in the House, requiring a do-over for a technical fix.

Thats normally a formality, but the do-over was complicated when Republicans unexpectedly blocked the burn pits bill from advancing last month. That was shortly after Schumer announced he had reached agreement with Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., on a party-line health and climate package paid for in part with higher taxes on corporations. Republicans were angry about that. Veterans were angry, too, that their burn pits bill was blocked, some felt, in retaliation.

Many would spend the next days camped out at the Capitol, taking shifts in Washingtons oppressive humidity and thunderstorms. They got a celebratory ending last week when the Senate passed the measure after giving Republicans a chance to vote on amendments, all defeated.

Moran said the vote reaffirmed to him the Senate could work.

Ive never worked or been a United States senator when the Senate functioned well. I missed the days in which that was the case, he said. Its a pleasing circumstance that every so often there are issues and people that come together.
The UK is planning on running short on natural gas this coming winter, resulting in blackouts, according to Bloomberg sources familiar with the governments planseven with emergency coal-fired power plants in operation.

The UK, under its reasonable worst-case scenario, is planning on exceptionally cold weather, necessitating energy conservation measures that will include organized blackouts across four days this coming January. While this is not the UKs base case scenario, the reasonable worst-case scenario shines a light on the growing concern in Europe for what it will face if it heads into winter without meeting its gas storage goals to carry it through.

The blackouts could happen precisely at the time when the cap on default energy tariffs in the UK surpasses $4,860 for the first time evermore than double what it is now.

Under its emergency plan, the UKs network operator responsible for directing UK gas flows would temporarily override commercial agreements. Then, gas supplies would stop flowing to gas-fired power stations, resulting in power cuts for industry and households.

The UKs first line of defense against running short on natural gas supplies is to pipe in gas from other countries in Europe, which are also staring down potential shortages this winter as Russia restricts the flows of gas at a time when the EU is trying to replenish its gas storage.

The UK could face even further energy crunches this winter after Norway said it would limit how much power it exports. Norway currently feeds the UK with some electricity. The UK also imports electricity from France, generated mostly from nuclear powerbut only half of Frances nuclear power stations are generating power right now, with the other half currently offline for repair, according to Bloomberg.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

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Centrica, the owner of British Gas, has signed a heads of agreement with U.S. firm Delfin Midstream to import LNG starting in 2026 from a planned floating LNG export facility offshore Louisiana, in a 15-year-deal worth $8.5 billion (7 billion British pounds).

Delfin has thus secured another long-term customer, which is expected to facilitate a Final Investment Decision (FID) for Delfin Deepwater Port, the first floating LNG export facility in the United States, by the end of this year, the companies said in a joint statement on Tuesday.

Market demand for long-term LNG continues to be strong and buying activity from Europe and various other geographies has accelerated over the past few months. As a modular project that can make FID in 3.5 MTPA increments, this agreement materially advances our first vessels path towards FID later this year, Dudley Poston, chief executive officer of Delfin, said.

In recent months, LNG buyers in Europe and Asia have been increasingly returning to long-term purchase agreements in order to secure a long-term supply of non-Russian gas and to insulate themselves from spiking volatile spot prices.

For Centrica, another deal for natural gas imports fits its and the UK strategy to bolster domestic energy security with sources of reliable and stable future supply of gas.

Additional US gas export capacity will help increase UK, European and global energy security, reflecting the increasing importance of LNG in the global gas supply chain, said Chris OShea, Centrica Group Chief Executive.

In June, Centrica signed a deal with Norways major Equinor for the delivery of an additional 1 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas supplies to the UK for each of the next three winters.

Centrica has also been awarded by UK authorities a gas storage license for the Rough site in the Southern North Seaa site that was closed in 2017, but could reopen as early as this winter.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Theres nothing like hitting the open road with your furry co-pilot(s). Summer road trips to the beach, mountains, urban retreats, and quaint little towns bring pets and their people who are heading out for much-needed getaways.

Whether youre traveling in-state, to a nearby state, or cross-country, there are a number of ways to save money and still have an enjoyable and fulfilling road trip with your furkid. With a little preparation and stick-to-it-ivness, you can still say YES! to your road trip and make it both pet friendly and budget friendly.

Getting the best hotel rate

Typically, the biggest expense when youre traveling is accommodations. When looking to book a hotel that welcomes your pet, you can simply make your wallet happy by planning ahead.

Planning ahead generally means lower hotel room rates. You can save BIG by not waiting until the last minute to book your hotel stay. Securing your reservations early equates to better rates. In addition, it provides you with greater availability of room types and special room requests. For example, many pet parents like to request a first floor room - making it easier to take their pets out for potty breaks.

Further, delaying booking a hotel, especially during the busy summer travel season, means less overall hotel vacancies. You may literally end up paying the price for your delay by having to book at a pricey hotel.

Saving on hotel pet fees

Hotel pet fees generally range from free to $150 per stay. There are plenty of hotels that have no or low pet fees, and they range from budget hotels to upscale hotels.

Some budget hotels allow pets to stay for free. Stand-outs include Red Roof Inn and Motel 6.

A couple of midscale hotel options that offer low or no pet fees include La Quinta and Aloft. Both brands welcome pets at most of their properties.

Although Kimpton Hotels is IHGs luxury brand, their rates are quite reasonable and best of all, pets stay free. No matter your pet's size, weight, breed, or type, they are welcome at Kimpton Hotels at no extra charge. On its own, Kimpton is a destination. You can park your car there, and youre done!

There are many more out there. Be sure to do your research to find accommodations that offer no or low pet fees.

Save on meals

Right up there with accommodations, meal expenses while traveling can add up quickly. Yes, its nice to be waited on and out of the kitchen for a while. But, if you want to save on meals, theres an easy way to do it.

Book a pet-friendly hotel that has rooms with kitchenettes. This will allow you to prepare some meals on your own. No, it doesnt have to be all your meals. Even preparing one meal a day will help you save.

Plan ahead by doing some grocery shopping before you hit the road  or once you arrive at your destination.

Top picks for some hotels that welcome pets and have quite nice in-room kitchen areas include Candlewood Suites, Home2 Suites, and Homewood Suites.

Another way to save on meals is to book a hotel that offers complimentary breakfast. Hampton Inns are a fan favorite, particularly when it comes to their breakfast offerings!

Things to do for free (or close to it)

Finding free or inexpensive pet-friendly activities in just about Any City, USA is pretty easy if you do your homework first. Parks and recreational areas, hiking trails, greenways, ghost tours, historic walking tours, beaches, and art walks are typically free, easy on the pocketbook, and welcome pets. Further, there is an increasing number of shops and stores that now welcome furry patrons to sniff around and explore their wares.

And then theres transportation costs

Unfortunately, gas doesnt go on sale. Yes, you can shop around to get a savings of a penny or two per gallon. However, the only way you can really save on fuel cost is a function of your destination. Perhaps rather than taking that 4-hour road trip to North Carolinas Outer Banks, you can take a 2-hour trip to Emerald Isle.

The takeaway

Taking a roadtrip with your furkid should be fun and memorable, without having to worry about breaking the bank. So, dont skip out - use our tips for planning that much-needed pet-friendly getaway and start packing!

About TripsWithPets

We love our customers and we love what we do! We've been helping pet parents travel with their furkids for over 10 years. With over 35,000 pet-friendly accommodations across the United States and Canada, we provide pet travelers with a wide variety of pet-friendly options.

When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets for all they need to find and book the perfect place to stay with their pet  including detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities. Helping pet parents plan trips with their pets is what we do!

We are also passionate animal advocates. We support local and national 501(c)(3) animal welfare organizations by raising much needed funds through our annual Partners for Animal Welfare Series (PAWS).

Enjoy exclusive deals, get travel tips and news @#jointheroadtrip.
Following waves of public backlash, the Bennington school board has scrapped its plan to buy a property near a landfill for a potential second high school.

Board members voted unanimously Monday evening to rescind the agreement between the district and the property owner to purchase 78 acres of farmland at 132nd Street and Rainwood Road, southeast of Bennington.

The school board had previously approved the purchase on July 18 and moved forward with asking for community feedback about what the districts second high school should look like.

Terry Haack, Benningtons superintendent, said the school boards decision allowed for the execution of the contract, but the purchase hadnt been made by the time the district asked for community input.

Through public forums, many different entities, professionals and other stakeholders, it has been recommended to not follow through with execution of that land contract, he said.

Following the school boards decision in July, community members voiced their concerns about the property, which is located just north of a Douglas County landfill that was closed in 1989. Many parents said they didnt approve of the purchase despite an environmental study that deemed the land for the second high school to be safe.

During Mondays meeting, community member Robert Kaminski asked the board to delay the bond issue to allow more discussion.

We cant have a bond issue this November, there just isnt enough time, Kaminski said. We havent had enough discussion. And we need that.

Besides building a second high school  which would cost more than $100 million  the district has asked for feedback on other projects such as the continuation of the current high schools stadium renovation, adding a sixth elementary school, HVAC renovations, land acquisitions and more.

Through a poll of 465 Bennington voters in July, 68% supported the construction of a second high school.

Other parents said Monday that they wish they were consulted before the district decided to chose the property for the second high school. Bennington officials said the district wouldnt have been able to give the public an option to offer feedback until the school board vote on July 18.

It became clear through the forums that the community was not comfortable with that site, Mary Byars, board president, said at Mondays meeting. So this action is a response to that. This is an important and significant decision for our community. We will continue to invite feedback.
An estimated 120,000 people have gone missing during 50 years of violent civil war in the South American nation of Colombia, according to estimates by the International Committee of the Red Cross.

This week, 10 forensic anthropologists tasked with identifying Colombias missing are at Offutt Air Force Base to meet with their U.S. counterparts at the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA).

We have the same objective: giving identity to these remains, Francis Paola Nino Ruiz, who investigates cases for the office of Colombias attorney general, said through a translator.

They are taking part in a workshop Monday and Tuesday that also includes forensic experts from the U.S. Department of Justice and the University of Nebraska.

We are exchanging ideas on the different cycles and processes we go through in our case work, said Jessica Yopak, an Offutt-based DPAA forensic anthropologist. Were excited to have them here.

DPAA and its predecessor organizations have been working to identify the remains of missing American service members since 1973. The Offutt lab opened in 2013 and took up its first large project two years later with the identification of nearly 400 missing crew members from the USS Oklahoma.

The Justice Departments International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program has been working with law enforcement in Colombia since 1989, according to a DOJ fact sheet.

For the past five years it has worked specifically with forensic anthropologists to gain accreditation for Colombias forensic laboratories and boost their ability to identify victims, return remains to families and prosecute human rights crimes.

With the programs assistance, Colombian officials have collected evidence leading to the recovery of nearly 300 sets of human remains, according to the fact sheet.

The visit to the Offutt lab has been nearly two years in the making. The visiting anthropologists said they have been looking forward to seeing how DPAA carries out its work.

This is the benchmark in the labs, said Jonathan Buitrago Sanchez, head of human identification for Colombias Criminal Investigation Directorate.

The countrys civil war dates to May 27, 1964, when the Colombian armed forces attacked a small band of leftist guerrillas in a rural village. In the decades since, it has involved far-left and far-right groups, as well as criminal syndicates and drug cartels.

Large-scale conflict between the government and the main rebel group, FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) ended with a peace agreement in 2016, but it continues to simmer in parts of the country. A report from a national Truth Commission, released in June, said more than 7 million people were displaced and 450,000 people were killed during the decades-long war.

Nino Ruiz said the ongoing nature of the war has hampered efforts to find and identify the victims.

We have areas where we dont have access yet to burial sites, or to families, she said. We have a lot of missing persons, and we have a lot of families who are scared.

Buitrago Sanchez said the idea of bringing comfort to grieving families is what drew him to the work of identifying the casualties of his countrys bloody civil war.

Working with the victims, with their families, he said, is something that is highly rewarding.
LAUREL, Neb.  As residents of Laurel trudge forward after losing four of their own in a quadruple homicide last week, friends and loved ones of the victims are remembering them for the positive impact they had on the town of 1,000 people in southeastern Cedar County.

Gene Twiford, 86; Janet Twiford, 85; Dana Twiford, 55; and Michele Ebeling, 53, were fatally shot at their respective homes within blocks of each other in the early morning hours Thursday, according to police. The suspect, 42-year-old Jason Jones, who lived across the street from Ebeling, allegedly attempted to burn down both Ebelings home and the Twiford household after the victims were shot.

Laurel and surrounding communities have offered waves of support to the victims families, holding a prayer vigil Saturday, contributing to funds for funeral expenses and embracing the families through phone calls, texts and social media.

Ebeling and each of the Twifords were well-liked  if not loved  by scores of Laurel residents.

Ebeling, who enjoyed collecting and amassed about 500 salt and pepper shakers, lived at 209 Elm St. for about two years with her boyfriend, Brian Welch, who works as a trucker.

One of Ebelings brothers, Mike Shankles, said Ebeling often would tag along with Welch when he traveled out of state for work. Welch wasnt home on the morning of Aug. 4 when Ebeling was killed, Shankles said, and Ebeling stayed in Laurel because she had an appointment scheduled with a cardiologist. She had been planning to have surgery on her knee later this month.

Shankles said his sister was a loving person who wouldnt hurt a fly.

If she met you, shed be your friend for life, he said. She had a heart of gold.

As affectionate as Ebeling was, she was just as bold. Both Mike Shankles and one of Ebelings two other brothers, John Shankles, said their sister was sassy and would say whatever came to mind at that moment  she was filterless.

Ebeling was a family person  someone who cared deeply about the successes of her loved ones, John Shankles said.

Richele Ebeling, Micheles daughter, said her mother loved Richele, her brother, William, and their two half-siblings dearly.

Ebeling, whose kids all live out of state, would tell people how proud she was of her children. Any accomplishments the kids had that they shared with their mother were passed along to Ebelings friends in Laurel, Richele Ebeling said. It wasnt simply because she wanted to brag about her kids, but rather, it was a genuine display of how much she cared about others triumphs.

Richele Ebeling said her mother always would call to check in. The last such phone call with her mother, she said, was the evening of Aug. 3, about seven hours before Michele was killed.

Im so grateful that the universe gave us one last time to hear her voice, Richele Ebeling said.

Despite having a job and home in Oklahoma, Richele Ebeling said she would make every effort to be at each of the suspects potential court proceedings in Hartington, where the Cedar County Courthouse is located, saying, I want justice.

The younger Ebeling started a GoFundMe to help the family pay for funeral expenses. Travel expenses to possible legal proceedings for the family, who live in Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri and Hawaii, wont be cheap, either.

My mom meant so much to me, Richele Ebeling said. Im going to miss the calls, pictures and everything she did for me.

* * *

The Twifords were staples in the Laurel community. Gene Twiford, who lived near or in Laurel his entire life, was a military veteran and deeply involved himself with the American Legion Post 54 in Laurel.

Jim Thompson, another veteran and a friend of the Twifords, said he knew the family for about 40 years. Gene Twiford was always around, Thompson said, and desired to lend a hand with anything someone needed.

The Twifords, like Thompson, attended United Lutheran Church in Laurel. Thompson said he enjoyed seeing Janet, Genes wife, and Dana, the couples daughter, because they always had a smile on their faces.

Wayne Freeman, another veteran and Post 54 member, said he had known the Twifords for nearly 50 years. Gene Twiford was crafty and enjoyed welding, Freeman said, and the American Legion was really lucky for all that he contributed.

He crafted flag stands, metal posts and shelves for military trophies and medallions.

And nothing was ever done shoddy, Freeman said. He would build something with the goal for it to last 1,000, 2,000 years.

Twiford also attended nearly every local funeral that included military rites, and he was present at countless events entailing flag presentations.

Moreover, Twiford, who served as post commander in 2000, played a major role in the eventual signing by Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts of paperwork renaming the states 432-mile stretch of Highway 20 as the Nebraska Medal of Honor Highway.

Freeman said he would need more fingers to count off the number of contributions Twiford made to Laurel and local veterans.

Twiford, Freeman said, orchestrated the creation of the Missing Wall, which consists of a list of dozens of veterans who served in the Vietnam War but dont have their names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial wall. Specifically, Twiford wanted to make sure the late Gary, Gregory and Kelly Sage of Niobrara had their names inscribed on the missing wall.

You never heard the word no come out of Twifords mouth if you asked him to help with something, Freeman said.

He liked helping people wherever he could, Freeman said. It didnt matter what it was.

Regg Ward, a childhood neighbor of Gene Twifords, said he often would see Janet and Dana around town. The two women were the friendliest of people, he said.

Janet Twiford was active in United Lutherans Women of the Church, a charter member of Sarah Circle and served on the church council, according to her obituary. She was an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary, in which she held several positions over 37 years and served as District 3 president of the auxiliary.

But the titles Janet Twiford was most proud of were grandma and great-grandma, and some of her most cherished times were grandmas day with her granddaughters.

Dana Twiford worked at Hillcrest Care Center in the kitchen  a place where she greatly loved talking and laughing with the residents for the 20 years she was employed there. She was a lifelong member of United Lutheran Church and was an avid Husker volleyball fan, never missing a match on TV. She loved being an aunt and spoiled all of her nieces and nephews every chance she had.

Memorial services for the Twifords will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at United Lutheran Church, 305 W. Third St. in Laurel. Visitation will be at the church from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday.

Services for Ebeling are pending.

Posts remembering the Twifords and Ebeling have flooded social media since their deaths. One expressed that the manner in which the Twifords died would not be their legacy. Instead, their legacy will be the impact they had on Laurel and surrounding communities.

Freeman said Laurel, a town with a population of about 1,000 people, has had its share of bad happen but nothing like this.

Weve got a dark cloud over town, but were working to get our spirit back, he said. We will get that spirit back.
A 29-year-old western Nebraska man has been arrested in connection with the shooting death of his father during a family dispute.

Joseph Bennett of Broadwater was arrested Monday night on suspicion of first-degree murder by deputies from the Morrill County Sheriff's Office. He is accused of fatally shooting 57-year-old Rodney Bennett.

Nebraska State Patrol troopers were called to a residence in Broadwater, a village about 40 miles north of Sidney in the Nebraska Panhandle, about 6:30 p.m. MDT. Troopers arrived to find Joseph Bennett in custody and his father dead.

An autopsy is planned, a patrol spokesman said. Morrill County Attorney Travis Rodak said Tuesday that he could provide no information other than to say the investigation is continuing.
PONTIAC  The three people found dead in a Cullom home on Christmas morning 2019 were victims of homicide, prosecutors said Tuesday, opening the murder trial for Clifford Brewer in Livingston County.

Brewers attorneys said one of those deaths was by suicide.

Theres a lot more to this case, said Stephen Richards, the lead defense attorney in Brewers case, during his opening statements.

Brewer, 55, is accused of killing his wife Shirley Brewer, 48; his son Christian Brewer, 27; and his neighbor Norman Walker, 51, who were all found in Brewers home with a single gunshot wound to the head.

In his opening statement, States Attorney Randy Yedinak said Brewer called the authorities to his home using the non-emergency phone number at about 2:05 a.m. on Dec. 25, 2019, and told them he awoke to find his wife, son and best friend dead.

Youre going to hear him as he tells the dispatcher that he has no idea what happened, that he was sleeping downstairs, that he woke up and went upstairs to find (their bodies), Yedinak said to the jury, telling them about the recorded call the defendant made. Youre going to hear him say that he did see a gun, but he never touched it. He doesnt know where the gun is; its not his.

The prosecutor noted  and law enforcement witnesses testified Tuesday  the Brewers washing machine was running when officers arrived, set to sanitize on extra high heat. A raincoat, hat, blanket and pair of slippers were later removed from the washing machine, Yedinak said.

Law enforcement witnesses from Livingston County Sheriffs Police and Illinois State Police also said they saw no signs of forced entry at the house when they responded to the scene.

Richards agreed no one broke into the house to fire the fatal shots.

On Dec. 24 and Dec. 25, Shirley Brewer, Clifford Brewers wife, was depressed, she was distraught and she was suicidal, Richards told the jury. She was taking a number of prescription and non-prescription medications including fentanyl; she was drinking heavily; and in a moment of despair, while not in her right mind and possibly showing signs that she was about to commit suicide, she shot and killed her son Christian Brewer; and she was planning to kill herself.

She then had some sort of confrontation with Walker and shot him, Richards said. Her husband Clifford Brewer woke up and also tried to stop her.

Richards said as Brewer tried to stop her an errant shot was fired, missing them both, but a second shot killed her.

While she was lying down or falling down, intentionally or accidentally,  we do not know this  her finger pulled the trigger, he said. ... The murders of Christian Brewer and Norman Walker  Shirley Brewer tragically caused those deaths of her son and her neighbor. She committed both of those murders. Clifford Brewer had nothing to do with either one of those murders. Shirley Brewer died in an attempt for her own life and in a struggle with Clifford Brewer.

Shirley Brewer was shot in the forehead, and a forensic pathologist has said none of the three victims died by self-inflicted injuries, the attorneys said.

Crime scene photos, which law enforcement said show the home as they found it, were displayed in court showing Walker was found seated on a couch and Shirley Brewer was found on the ground near his feet, both in a room the attorneys called a "smoke room." A handgun was shown at the scene near Shirley Brewer's head. Christian Brewer appeared to be found on the floor in his bedroom.

Richards said if Brewer played a role in his wife's death, he would not be criminally liable because he acted in defense of himself and to prevent her from killing herself.

The defense attorney also noted Brewer lied to police about the gun he owned that was used that night and about his wife being alive when he woke up.

During both opening statements, the attorneys mentioned problems in the Brewers marriage, including considerations of separation and divorce as well as dishonesty and suspected infidelity.

The jury heard from the prosecutions first witnesses Tuesday, who were primarily the county and state law enforcement officers who responded to the scene on Dec. 25, 2019.

The prosecution's case will continue Wednesday, with witnesses including forensic pathologist Scott Denton expected to testify.
Photo: SaskAlert

An Amber Alert has been issued in Saskatchewan for a boy and girl who police say may be travelling in a truck with a man, as well as their mother.

The alert issued Monday evening at the request of RCMP in Shaunavon, in southwest Saskatchewan, is for Luna Potts, who is seven, and Hunter Potts, who is eight.

The children are believed to be with Benjamin Martin Moore of Eastend, Sask., who may go by different names.

He is described as being 50 years old, standing five-feet-10 inches tall and weighing 200 pounds, with black hair.

They may be travelling in a 2015 dark blue Chevrolet Equinox, Alberta plate CGC 2492.

The mother of the children, 45-year-old Leah Potts, is believed to be travelling with them and they may have entered the United States.

Anyone who sees the children, their mother, the man or the truck should call 911.

People may also call or 1-877-SOAMBER (762-6237) and visit the SaskAlert website saskalert.ca for updates.
Ghanas government is in talks over a loan of about $3 billion from the International Monetary Fund, according to two people familiar with the matter.



The amount is double what the West African nation was considering a month ago as it tries to shore up its finances and win back access to global markets. The funding would be provided over three years, the people said, asking not to be identified because the talks are still in progress and public announcements have not been made.



Calls to a finance ministry spokeswoman didnt connect.



Since negotiations for the program are starting now, its too early to comment on the final form the program will take, an IMF spokeswoman said in an emailed response. The Extended Credit Facility for low-income countries is the Funds main tool for medium-term support for countries facing protracted balance of payments problems, similar to Ghanas. The duration of such an arrangement is between three to four years, and extendable to five years.



The final program is ultimately decided by the IMFs Executive Board, she said.



The government began discussions with the Washington-based multilateral lender last month, reversing a pledge by President Nana Akufo-Addos administration not to seek a financial program from the IMF. Ghana has been battling to stabilize a debt pile that increased to 78.3% of gross domestic product at the end of June from 62.5% five years ago.



S&P Global Ratings last week became the latest rating company to cut its assessment of Ghanas ability to repay its debt, downgrading its rating by one notch to CCC+, seven levels below investment grade, and changing the outlook to negative from stable. Moodys Investors Service lowered Ghanas long-term debt one step deeper into junk territory to Caa1 on Feb. 4, following Fitch Ratings, which cut Ghanas rating a month earlier to B- from B.

Source: Bloomberg









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Presidential Aspirant of the New Patriotic Party, Hon Joe Ghartey has said that the country should do all it can to continue to attract foreign investment.



Hon. Ghartey who is the author of Ghanas leading legal text on foreign investment, Doing Business and Investing in Ghana, made this comment he had successful meetings with business leaders interested in a wide range of business.



He used the occasion to brief the business leaders on the legal framework for doing business and investing in Ghana. For those interested in the petrochemical sector, Joe Ghartey informed the potential investors of recent developments in the petrochemical industry in Ghana including the establishment of an institutional framework for the sector which is seeking to create a petrochemical hub.



Other areas investors showed interest in were large-scale mining, ICT, education and renewable energy.



The investors asked about Ghanas economic situation but after discussions, it was agreed that the current situation would not last forever and should not influence medium to long-term investments.



Joe Ghartey returned to Ghana on the 8th of August after a week of successful business promotion in the United Kingdom.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Ghana Police Service has stated that it has launched investigations into the alleged assassin attack on the host of Angel FM Morning Show, Kofi Adoma Nwanwanii.



According to a communique by the law enforcement agency on the matter, investigations kick-started immediately after the notice of the attack came to their attention.



The Police are investigating alleged attacks by some unknown persons on Stephen Kofi Adomah, a staff of Angel Broadcasting Network on August 6, 2022, at Old Ashongman Village in Accra.



Investigation into the alleged incident commenced immediately the matter came to the attention of the Police, the statement said.



Background



GhanaWeb had reported earlier that Kofi Adomah Nwanwanii, the host of Angel FM's morning show, was allegedly attacked by some unknown men on Saturday, August 6, 2022.



Sources say that the broadcaster was returning from DAMAX Estate, Kuntunse, a suburb of Accra when he was crossed by these alleged assassins who were riding a motorbike and attacked him around Old Ashongman.



The unknown men used a sharp object to injure the journalist and later tried to set him ablaze.



Kofi Adomah visited his House at DAMAX estate at Kuntunse, on his way back he was attacked around old Ashongman. He was crossed by the guys on Motorcycle.



They targeted his face with sharp objects but he used his hands and shoulders to avoid many wounds on his face.

Source: Ghanaweb.com









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The Ghana Police Service has said two suspects including a minor have been arrested in connection with an alleged robbery and murder of a student at Fiankoma in the Ashanti region.



According to the Police, the suspect Eric Annig and the minor after robbing the victim, Osei Mensah Daniel, who is a third-year student of Tweneboa Kodua Senior High School proceeded to bury him in a cocoa farm near Benebene.



Following their arrest, the suspect together with his minor accomplice led the Police to the scene where the body of the deceased was found.



The body was removed and deposited at the St Peters Catholic Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy, Director of Public Affair, Chief Superintendent of Police Grace Ansah-Akrofi narrated in a press release dated August 8, 2022.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Ndan Ya-Na Abukari II, King of Dagbon has commended Alhaji Farouk Aliu Mahama, Member of Parliament (MP) for Yendi for his efforts towards the development of the Yendi Constituency.

The President and the Dagbon King commended the Member of Parliament for his dynamism and commitment for ensuring the good welfare of the people of the Yendi Constituency.



Alhaji Farouk Aliu Mahama received commendations at the Gbewaa Palace when the President visited the Palace to pay homage to the Dagbon King to ask for his blessing to begin his two-day tour of the Northern Region.



The President as part of his tour was to cut a sod for the Commencement of the construction of a 2.53 kilometers Yendi Dualisation Town Road which is expected to be completed within seven months.



Ya-Na Abukari II revealed that Alhaji Farouk Aliu Mahama has been greatly intervening by supporting the people of Yendi and its environs with the supply of potable drinking water through the construction of boreholes in many parts of the constituency.



"He also supports the Yendi town residents with water by paying to commercial water tanker suppliers when the need arises at all times".



The President told the Ya-Na Abukari II that the development that Dagbon is seeing now was a translation of the peace that the Kingdom was enjoying.



Alhaji Farouk Aliu Mahama reiterated that his office as an MP will continue to support the course of the government of President Akufo-Addo to deliver on his mandate.



He said the Yendi City Project initiated by his office was a manifestation of the love he and President Akufo-Addo has for the people of Yendi.



The Member of Parliament assured President Akufo-Addo that his outfit was working towards achieving an 80 per cent win in the 2024 election and that the development of Yendi was a top priority on his agenda.



He thanked President Akufo-Addo, Ya-Na Abukari II and the people of Yendi for their care and support and appealed to them to continue to support him to deliver.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has inaugurated the Board of the Zongo Development Fund at the Jubilee House in Accra on Wednesday August 9, 2022.



Dr. Bawumia also administered the swearing-in of the eleven-member Board, which is chaired by Mr Seidu H Nasigri.



Addressing members of the board after swearing them into office, Dr. Bawumia urged members to "work assiduously with all stakeholders, to ensure that the ZDF continues to deliver on its mandate.."



The Zongo Development Fund, Dr. Bawumia noted, is very dear to the "heart of the President and government and all of us" because it was set set up to bridge the development gap between Zongo communities and other parts of the country.



"Since the passing of the ZDF Bill and the signing of the Act by the President in 2018, the development of Zongos, have, for the first time since independence, been included in the national budget, and the impact is so obvious," Dr. Bawumia said.



"As we envisioned, the ZDF has been a vehicle for inclusive, sustainable development for Zongo communities delivering projects such as: renovation and construction of classroom blocks, clinics, drainage systems, water systems, security installations, bridges, roads, entrepreneurial support, educational scholarships, astro turfs, among others."



The Vice President continued that as part of governments broader vision to widen opportunities for education, the ZDF's has prioritised investment in education.



"This has resulted in the construction of a number of modern educational facilities such as classroom blocks, ICT centres, and libraries in many Zongos."



"Also, about 40 brilliant but needy



Zongo students are currently in Cuba training to be medical doctors, thanks to the vision of this government to ensure inclusive development for all."



"Not only that, the ZDF, has also given out hundreds of tertiary educational grants to young people from the Zongos to pursue tertiary education."



Dr. Bawumia reiterated government's commitment to delivering more for Zongo communities "in our quest to ensure inclusive development."



"Surely, ours is not the politics of rice and sugar. We promised the people of Zongo and we are delivering through sustainable policy, with education as the catalyst."



"There is so much work to do to ensure that the ZDF spreads its development to more Zongos across the country," Dr. Bawumia told the board members.



Members of the Board are:



Mr. Seidu H Nasigri, Alhaji (Chairman), Arafat Sulemana (CEO), Ahmed Saed, Hajia Barkisu Seidu Bawie, Chief Dalhu S. Abdul Mumin, Sagnari Naa Amb. Yakubu Abdulai, Chief Manmoud Dandey, Rev. Dr. Cyril Gershon Kwao Fayose, Chief Alhaji Shakson Osumanu Issahaku and Ahmed Abdulai Abu.









Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Brazilian twins who were joined at the head have been successfully separated with the help of virtual reality.



Three-year-olds Bernardo and Arthur Lima underwent surgeries in Rio de Janeiro, with direction from Great Ormond Street Hospital in London.



The teams spent months trialling techniques using virtual reality projections of the twins, based on CT and MRI scans.



It was described by surgeon Noor ul Owase Jeelani as "space-age stuff".



It was one of the most complex separation processes ever completed, according to the charity which funded it - Gemini Untwined - which Mr Jeelani founded in 2018.



He said that, for the first time, surgeons in separate countries wore headsets and operated in the same "virtual reality room" together.



The twins had seven surgeries, involving more than 27 hours of operating time in the final operation alone, and almost 100 medical staff.



'Man-on-Mars stuff'



Speaking about the VR aspect of the surgery, Mr Jeelani told the PA news agency: "It's just wonderful. It's really great to see the anatomy and do the surgery before you actually put the children at any risk.



"You can imagine how reassuring that is for the surgeons.



"In some ways, these operations are considered the hardest of our time, and to do it in virtual reality was just really man-on-Mars stuff."



He said that previously unsuccessful attempts to separate the boys meant their anatomy was complicated by scar tissue, and he was "really apprehensive" about the risky procedure.



Mr Jeelani said he was "absolutely shattered" after the 27-hour operation, where he took only four 15-minute breaks for food and water, but it was "wonderful" to see the family feeling "over the moon" afterward.



He added that, as with all conjoined twins after separation, the boys' blood pressures and heart rates were "through the roof" - until they were reunited four days later and touched hands.



The twins are recovering well in hospital and will be supported with six months of rehabilitation.



Life-changing



This was Mr Jeelani's sixth separation procedure with Gemini Untwined, after previously operating on twins from Pakistan, Sudan, Israel and Turkey.



He led the procedure alongside Dr Gabriel Mufarrej, head of paediatric surgery at Instituto Estadual do Cerebro Paulo Niemeyer in Brazil.



Dr Mufarrej said the hospital where he works has been caring for the boys for two-and-a-half years, and their separation will be "life-changing".



"Since the parents of the boys came from their home in the Roraima region to Rio to seek our help two-and-a-half years ago, they have become part of our family here in the hospital. We are delighted that the surgery went so well."



Bernardo and Arthur, at almost four years of age, are the oldest craniopagus twins - that is twins with a fused brain - to have been separated.



According to the charity, one in 60,000 births results in conjoined twins, and only 5% of those are craniopagus.

Source: BBC









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has expressed fears over an imminent collapse of local businesses due to cedi depreciation and other market challenges.



GUTA has threatened to demonstrate against the government complaining that, "businesses have reached a situation where their survival is seriously threatened . . . we are calling on the government, as a matter of urgency, to reconvene the Foreign Exchange Committee that was set up a few years agon by the Finance Ministry which involved all relevant stakeholders, to help find an immediate solution".



The President of GUTA, Dr. Joseph Obeng, in an interview stated "the exarcerbating tension that is coming from the trading Committee is huge . . . they believe that if nothing is done about their businesses, their businesses are going to collapse in perpetuity so they are calling for a serious deomnstration".



With the Traders Association raising red flag over the local market, Ghana continues to import.



The panel on 'Kokrokoo' morning show on Peace FM were thrown into a state of shock finding out from a texter that the country imports newspapers, despite having local newspaper corporations and lots of newspapers in circulation at media organizations and offices.



"We import old newspapers with our dollar. Go to La Paz right now; there's a 40-footer container offloading old newspapers," host of 'Kokrokoo', Kwami Sefa Kayi read.



It is further disclosed that the old newspapers are used to wrap goods and also for manufacturing egg crates.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Mr Governs Kwame Agbodza, the Member of Parliament for Adaklu, has urged the Government to decentralize the supply of food to Senior High Schools (SHSs) to ensure sustenance of the policy.



He said the centralisation of the policy was making it difficult to feed students due to the irregular supply of food and putting a lot of pressure on school administrators.



Mr Agbodza was speaking at a ceremony at Adaklu SHS at Adaklu Waya, where he donated food items worth GHC40,000 to the school from his personal resources.



These include 50 bags of rice, 10 bags of sugar, 25 cartons each of mackerel, tomato paste, and frytol cooking oil.



Mr Agbodza said when the Parliamentary Select Committee on Education visited some SHSs in the country the food they saw being served the students were not the best, a situation which he described as worrying.



He noted that the Adaklu SHS also needed an upgrade in its facilities to enhance teaching and learning adding that the GETFund must assist.



The MP also bemoaned the situation where the Adaklu SHS and Gbekor SHS at Adaklu Abuadi/Tsriefe were not being provided with buses as done for other schools.



"Some schools have two to four vehicles and yet are always considered when new busses are procured for SHSs while our pleas for busses for schools in Adaklu are always ignored," he said.



Mr Agbodza said Ghana comprised both urban and rural settings, therefore, the distribution of the national cake should benefit all.



The future of Adaklu did not hinge on gold, bauxite or oil deposits but on the number of her children educated to the highest level, he said.



He appealed to the students to be disciplined and shy away from drugs adding; "Your attitude and the way you conduct yourselves and not only your academic credentials will make you achieve your goals."



Mr Agbodza called on those pushing for the legalisation of wee farming for its economic benefits to the country to consider its negative effects on the youth, adding that the cultivation of wee could not be a panacea to Ghanas economic problems.



He appealed to the final year students to avoid examination malpractices as that could be disastrous for their future and congratulated them and their teachers for braving the odds in these trying moments."



Togbe Agbobada IV, a Board Member of the School, noted that the food situation was not peculiar to the school alone but a national challenge, which needed urgent attention.



"Education and feeding of our children in SHSs is better than Ghana card so let us set our priorities right," he said.



Mr Seth Amewor, the Headmaster, commended the MP for his generosity and said the donation came at an opportune time and appealed to other well-meaning citizens to emulate the example of the MP.



The current enrollment of the school is about 1000 with more than 800 in the boarding house.





Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Photo: Nfld Gov't

Helicopters have begun bringing essential supplies to southern Newfoundland towns cut off from the rest of the island by two out-of-control forest fires.

The provincial Department of Transportation said late Monday night that goods had been transported that day to the Coast of Bays area, which includes a large aquaculture farm in the town of St. Alban's.

A news release said two helicopters had also begun bringing goods to the town of Harbour Breton, and that they would continue to do so until the emergency ended.

Two fires with area totaling over 160 square kilometres have shut down the only highway connecting the towns on Newfoundland's southern Connaigre Peninsula with the rest of the province.

The fires have been burning for over two weeks and the remote Bay d'Espoir highway hasn't opened up since last Thursday morning.

Federal Minister of Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair said in a tweet Monday night that his department expanded its aid for the wildfire response, and that more resources will be deployed "as conditions allow."

Provincial officials have said a ferry would be dispatched from the town of Lewisporte to help bring supplies to stranded towns and move people out of the area. However, Monday night's news release said that ferry  Sound of Islay  has been delayed by mechanical trouble.

The vessel is in the provincial capital of St. John's being repaired, the release said.
The National Chairman of the Progressive People's Party (PPP), Nana Ofori Owusu, has advised the Minister of Communications and Digitalization, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful to review her ways of getting Ghanaians to engage in the ongoing SIM registration exercise with Ghana Card.



The Minister's directive for all Ghanaians to register their SIM cards with the Ghana Card is aimed at organizing a database and clamping down on fraudulent activities.



Ghanaians have up to the end of September to register or risk their SIM cards deactivated.



Contributing to Peace FM's panel discussion programme "Kokrokoo", Nana Ofori Owusu opined that Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful's approach is repulsive and won't yield the required results.



He called on the Minister to be patient with Ghanaians to acquire their Ghana Cards to register their SIM cards as the Executive Secretary of National Identification Authority (NIA), Prof. Ken Agyeman Attafuah says it's impossible to get all Ghanaians to register their SIM cards with Ghana Card by the end of September.



"It is an unrealistic expectation that we will be able to give all of them their cards . . . it is not possible to do that. What is possible, however, is to put in greater efforts and make sure as many as can get it can but to guarantee that every single one is not possible".



"The number of SIM cards linked to the Ghana Cards are less than 15 million and yet we have issued more than 15.5 million, so that's also another factor to consider. Also, by the NCA's own statistics, it has not been possible since October 1st when they began to link all the available Ghana Cards to the SIM cards," Prof. Attafuah said in an interview on the 'Kokrokoo' programme.



Nana Ofori urged the Minister to educate Ghanaians on the significance of the SIM Card re-registration instead of adopting an approach he labeled as "military" to compel Ghanaians to register their SIM cards with the Ghana Card.



"I think she is a brilliant person but she has a shortfall . . . The shortfall is that you communicate to Ghanaians in a form of authoritative or like we are in the military regime. You see the key thing is that you must persuade Ghanaians to understand that this card is essential to our living and to our life that the person would want to go and get it. When you do the military lifestyle of communication, it doesn't augur well."





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former Chairman of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the Afigya Kwabre South Constituency in the Ashanti region, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah alias COKA has challenged the new leadership of the party to document and certify the history of the party and its tradition before leaving office in the future.



He believes that an aptly worded document issued and signed by the National Chairman of the party would go a long way to clearing any doubts and confusion that stem from the twists and spins put on the NPPs history by some elders and authors who find the occasion to speak or write about it.



At the end of your term, one thing that delegates will ask you is what legacy did you leave behind? and one thing that I will be glad if you can do is to let people know the true certified history of our party, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah wrote in a Facebook post addressed to the National Chairman, Stephen Ayesu Ntim and General Secretary, Justin Frimpong Kodua.



He, therefore, advocated for the leadership of the party to take advantage of the depth of knowledge and experience reposed in Former President J. A Kufuor, President Akufo-Addo and other surviving founding elders of the party, while they are still alive to work on our history before we fight ourselves someday.



And this history book should be readily available on the market. People still have reservations about some books written by some authors; let us have one which will be signed by the national chairman of our party. If we dont do it, we will wake up one day and another name will be added to our history. Is our party Danquah-Busia-Dombo Tradition, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah wrote.



Though the NPP is considered as an offshoot of the defunct United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC) which dates back to 1947, priding itself as the pioneer of Ghanas independence struggle, there is no certified document that vividly tells the partys story.



The party metamorphosed from the UGCC to the United Party (UP) in the late 1950s, the Progress Party in the late 1960s, the Popular Front Party in the 1970s and the All Peoples Party in the 1980s.



It was in 1992 that the NPP in its current form was launched after the ban on political party politics was lifted after more than a decade of military dictatorship under Flt. Lt. J.J Rawlings came to an end and gave way to the 1992 Republican Constitution following a referendum.



Since losing out on his bid to become the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Odeneho Kwaku Appiah has committed his time to foster unity and cohesion within the rank and file of the party by embarking on several social engagements and provoking discourses about the effective running of the party.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has once again expressed his optimism about his party's winning power for an unprecedented 3rd successive time.



He said that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) nearly broke the 8 in the 2008 presidential election with him as its flagbearer but was only denied by some 20,000 votes.



In a Radio North Star interview monitored by GhanaWeb, the president added that he is confident the party will this time around break the 8 because of the good work his government has done for the people of Ghana.



A lot of people are forgetting that in 2008 we almost "broke the eight"... I won the first round and, in fact, I was short of outright victory by 23,000 votes. If 23,000 votes had gone the other way, I would have been president in 2028, but it did not happen.



We went to a second round and in that second round, I lost by 40,000 votes. President Mills was elected with 50.01 percent of the overall votes. It is the narrowest margin of victory in any presidential contest of the 4th Republic. What that tells you is that the NPP was extremely close to making that statement (Breaking the 8) in 2008.



He added that, We have all learnt our lessons from what happened. Those (the lessons) that came from our own side and those that were external. And we are determined that not only will it be a victory but it will be a decisive victory in 2024.



The president has previously stated that handing over to another New Patriotic Party (NPP) president come 2025 will be the last feat of his political career.



I want to end by making one appeal. I want you to help me to achieve the last great political feat of my career in Ghanaian politics. On the 7th of January 2025, I will go to Black Star Square and hand over the baton to our next NPP President of the Republic who we would have chosen, supported and brought to victory, Akufo-Addo said over the weekend.



Victory in 2024, that is our goal, that is our task and that by the Grace of God, we will achieve, he stressed while addressing party faithful who had gathered at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).

Source: Ghanaweb









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially expressed its condolences to the family, associates and people of Senya Breku following the passing of its founding member Harona Esseku.



The late Esseku was reported to have died at age 88, on Wednesday, August 3, following a statement from the family.



According to the statement, "burial and funeral arrangements will be announced later.



The New Patriotic Party described the death of late Esseku, a former National Chairman of the Party, as a huge loss to both NPP and Ghana.



"Mr Essekus contributions to the Danquah Dombo Busia political tradition and Ghana at large cannot be overemphasized. His passing is a huge loss to both NPP and the nation. We have indeed lost a father, mentor and colossus," the statement said.



The statement, signed by Mr Justin Kodua Frimpong, General Secretary, NPP and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra on Tuesday, directed all party flags at the party offices across the country to fly at half-mast for the next seven days.



It said the NPP received the news of the passing of our founding member with grief.



The statement further assured the family and people of Senya Breku of the Party's support in their period of difficulty.



It said: "May the soul of our dear departed father and mentor find solace in Gods bosom."



According to the statement, the late Esseku was a great source of inspiration, wise counsel to the party and revered by many as a symbol of peace and a consummate statesman.



In 1992, the late Esseku was a founding member of the NPP who became chairman of the Party from 2001 to 2005.



In the Second Republic, at age 35, the late Esseku became the youngest Cabinet Minister for Transport and Communications in the Busia government, a ministry which by 2008 had been split into four Cabinet Ministries namely; Transport, Communications, Civil Aviation and Railways and Harbours.



His political career started in 1968 when he was elected by the Awutus, Effutus, Gomoas and Agonas to represent them in the constituent assembly during the drafting of the constitution of the second republic.



When the Progress Party was founded in 1969, Esseku was one of the members.



In the elections that took place on 29 August that year, Esseku was returned as a member of parliament for the Awutu-Effutu-Senya Constituency.



At the onset of the third republic, he became a founding member of the Popular Front Party (PFP) and later a member of the steering committee of the party.



He was a beneficiary of the member of the Order of the Star of Ghana award, conferred on him by the then President John Agyekum Kufuor in 2007.



He was married to Janet Esseku, a Ghanaian broadcaster who worked with the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation.



He was a Christian.

Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Revolutionary Japanese fashion designer Issey Miyake has died aged 84, his company has announced.



Known for his innovative styles and perfume, Miyake built a global fashion brand, which included designing Steve Jobs' famous black turtle neck jumpers.



Miyake was known to work with traditional and modern fashion techniques during his long career.



He died of liver cancer on Friday, and a private funeral has already taken place, Japanese media is reporting.



Born in Hiroshima in 1938, Miyake was just seven years old when the city was devastated by an atomic bomb dropped by the United States. His mother died of radiation exposure three years later.



"When I close my eyes, I still see things no one should ever experience," he wrote in a New York Times opinion piece in 2009 - adding that he prefers to think of things "that can be created, not destroyed, and that bring beauty and joy".



Miyake reportedly wanted to be a dancer or athlete when he was young - but that changed after he read his sister's fashion magazines.



He studied graphic design at a Tokyo art university and then moved to Paris in the 1960s, where he worked with lauded fashion designers Guy Laroche and Hubert de Givenchy.



He moved to New York for a short time, before heading back to Tokyo in 1970 to open the Miyake Design Studio.

By the 1980s he was celebrated as one of the world's most pioneering designers as he worked with materials from plastic to metal - and also traditional Japanese materials, and paper.



Read Full Story .... HERE >>> :









Source: BBC









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Artist-first music streaming platform Audiomack has announced that it has tapped rising Ghanaian artist Black Sherif as its latest #UpNow artist.



#UpNow is Audiomacks emerging artist program highlights whats next up in culture by spotlighting and promoting the next generation of global music superstars.



Black Sherif will be featured on the cover of Audiomacks prestigious #UpNow playlist and will receive amplification across the platforms channels with specialized marketing, editorial, social support, playlisting, custom videos and more.



Im excited to be an Audiomack #UpNow artist, Black Sherif said. Ive had Audiomack since high school. It was the first platform that I used and convinced my friends to listen to my music. It was easier, and it looked professional. Its been the primary thing for me to connect with my fans and share music.



Were thrilled to have Black Sherif as our next #UpNow artist, Audiomack SVP of Marketing and Brand Strategy Jason Johnson said. We have been fans of him since his first upload on the platform in 2020 and it is amazing to see his growth over the last two years. We look forward to collaborating with his team to help showcase his talent, expand his brand and further introduce his music to a diverse array of fans.



Recently crossing the 100 million global streams milestone on the platform, Sherifs lean but mighty discography captures his hustlers tale. His first upload was in August 2020, but he broke with viral 2021 hit First Sermon, giving us the Second Sermon later that year. In December 2021, Sherifs star rose even further when Burna Boy hopped on the Second Sermon remix.



In March 2022, Sherif released his most introspective song yet, Kwaku The Traveller. Cutting and poignant storytelling helped Kwaku The Traveller garner over 35 million streams on the platform, making it the most-streamed song of 2022 so far on Audiomack and Black Sherifs biggest hit to date. He also received major acknowledgement from DJ Khaled, who posted the Ghanian artists latest single on his Instagram and heralded it as a big chune.



Audiomacks #UpNow program has been renowned for helping identify and uplift the new generation of emerging artists across hip-hop, R&B, AfroBeats and more. Previous #UpNow honourees include Rod Wave, EST Gee, Blxst, Pooh Shiesty, Sheff G, Omah Lay and Ayra Starr, among others.



Earlier this summer, Audiomack reaffirmed its commitment to expanding its global presence by launching Audiomack Punjabi, a new vertical focused on amplifying the renowned genre, introducing the music to new audiences and featuring versatile playlists highlighting the regions most popular contemporary artists.



Listen to the official #UpNow Playlist HERE featuring the rising Ghanaian star





Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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In order to maintain their relationships and marriages, reality star Sally Akua Amoakowaa Mensah, well known as Akua GMB, has urged people to keep their romances private.



In a recent interview with Adom FM, Akua, whose marriage to Ghanaian business magnate Dr. Kwaku Oteng ended amid rumors of her adultery, said that most celebrity marriages fail because their partners post everything on social media.



According to Akua, social media has a greater ability to destroy relationships, and celebrities only recently become aware of this.



She also discussed her marriage, her three children, and their bond.

Source: Eugene Osafo-Nkansah/Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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" " Prince performs onstage at The Hollywood Palladium on March 8, 2014 in Los Angeles. In 1993 he changed his name to an unpronounceable symbol (pictured). Kevin Mazur/WireImage for NPG Records 2013

Humans love naming things. Gardenias, flamingos, clothespins, you name it. Literally, you name it.

For people, our names help to establish our unique place in the world, often summing up in one word our basic personal data of gender, nationality and family history. Whether based on days of week (as with some tribes in Africa), Hopi familial tradition or Jewish religious custom, all cultures have developed naming conventions. And after all that effort, many still tweak their own names into a nickname like Moose or Flash.

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But are we legally obligated to have a name? Could we erase it and go with nothing, diving into the ultimate anonymity?

In the United States, going without a name is not inherently illegal. Police won't arrest you for not having a name. But you can't legally identify yourself without one, which would make things difficult for you. For instance, you need a legal name on a birth certificate or social security card to obtain a driver's license or passport, open a bank account and get a job.

By virtue of common law adopted through court decisions rather than legislative actions, you can change your name without a court order simply by using it in all aspects of your life. While state laws govern how you can legally change your name, in general, Beauregard can become any Tom, Dick or Harry as long as the new moniker isn't:

intentionally confusing, such as a number

a vulgar word that could induce fighting, including racial slurs

used with fraudulent intent, such as skipping out on unpaid debts

someone else's name for the intent of misuse

However, because of identity fraud and credit card theft, most government agencies will require forms to be filled out and filed if you're changing your name and want the new name on your passport, for example [source: FindLaw].

Other countries including Australia, Germany and Spain have similar laws regarding first names. That said, you still could not legally change your name to nothing because you would have no acceptable way to verify your identity.

But what about naming babies? Can parents choose to not name their child?
" " Meet Richard, William, Sarah and Charles  or as they're otherwise known  Dick, Bill, Sally and Chuck. Adam Jeffery/Bettmann/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty

Nicknames or "pet names"  shortened forms of standard names  exist in every language and every culture dating back to the first written records. In English, some nicknames make perfect sense: Dave for David, Pete for Peter, or Liz for Elizabeth. But others are totally weird: Margaret somehow becomes Peggy, Charles becomes Chuck, and Richard, quite famously, becomes Dick.

There isn't any overarching reason as to why nicknames develop that seem to make no logical sense. But there are some good stories behind some of the them. We reached out to Cleveland Kent Evans  psychology professor, author of "The Great Big Book of Baby Names", name columnist for the Omaha World Herald and former president of the American Name Society  to clue us in on the surprising origins of some of the most perplexing English nicknames. Let's start with a fun one.

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Charles to Chuck

Unlike most English nicknames, this one does not come from England. Chuck is an entirely American invention with a colorful backstory. The first famous Chuck was a 19th-century New York City gangster named Chuck Connors, whose given name was George Washington O'Connor, not Charles.

So how did he get the nickname "Chuck"? Connors grew up in the Chinatown neighborhood of Lower Manhattan and even learned enough Chinese to earn him the unofficial title of "Mayor of Chinatown." Connors claimed that he got the nickname Chuck because of his love for chuck steak, but Evans has another theory.

"If you look at the 1850 US census, which was the first to list full names, almost all the people who had some variation of 'Chuck' in their given name were Chinese," says Evans, who thinks Connors more likely picked up a nickname from the neighborhood.

When Connor died in 1913, some of the New York papers erroneously printed his given name as Charles, making the first (if false) connection between Charles and Chuck. But since Charles lacked any catchy alternative nicknames at the time, Chuck stuck.

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Henry to Hank (and Harry)

" " Prince Harry  who was christened Prince Henry  attends the launch of the team selected to represent the UK in the 2017 Invictus Games in Toronto in London, England. Jeremy Selwyn WPA Pool/Getty Images

Hank is another American nickname, but its origins are murkier. The most likely explanation, says Evans, is that Hank is derived from Henk, a Dutch nickname for Henry that would have been used by large the communities of Dutch settlers in New York and New Jersey in the 17th and 18th centuries.

But more interesting is the fact  little known to most Americans  that the original nickname for Henry was Harry. (Prince Harry's real name is Prince Henry of Wales.)

Evans says that Harry isn't so much a nickname of Henry as a mispronunciation of Henri, the original French form of Henry that arrived in England with the 11th-century Norman Conquest. Since few people could read or write in Medieval England, they pronounced the new name as best they could, sounding more like Harry than Henry.

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Richard to Dick

Many of the most common English nicknames can be traced back to Medieval times, when half the men in England were named either John or William, and the other half were Robert or Richard. Evans says that inherited surnames didn't even show up until around 1100. Before that, people used occupations or lineage as last names: John the Smith or Robert son of William.

In those days, nicknames were essential to keeping Richard your neighbor straight from Richard your brother. A popular trick was to create rhyming names. The original shortened form of Richard was Rick, which became Hick and Dick.

The letters "H" and "D" were popular rhyming consonants, apparently, because the original nickname for Robert wasn't Bob, but instead was Hob or Dob. Bob arrived much later, Evans says, but you can still see the original nicknames in English surnames like Hobson and Dobson.

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William to Bill

Credit the Irish with this one. Evans says that a curiosity of Irish Gaelic will turn a "W" sound into more of a "B" depending on whether the word is the subject or object of a sentence. Either way, the first written evidence of a William being called Bill was in the late 17th century when Irishmen mocked King William III of England by calling the hated Protestant conqueror "King Billy."

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Margaret to Peggy

The ladies also got in on the rhyming act, but took it a step further. In the 1500s, there was a fad for rhyming "M" names with "P." Here's how Evans explains the journey from Margaret to Peggy:

Margaret to Marg to Mag to Meg to Meggy to Peggy.

The same thing happened to the name Martha. It started with the nickname Math, which moved to Matty, then switched to Patty, and eventually Patsy. Thomas Jefferson's wife, Martha, was known as Patty. Neither Patsy nor Patty had anything to do with Patricia.

In a final twist, another common nickname for Margaret was Daisy. Don't even try to get there using the rhyming method. This one was adopted by educated Brits who recognized that the French word for daisy, the flower, was Marguerite.

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Sarah to Sally

A few nicknames are attributed to baby talk. Little children have a notoriously hard time pronouncing the letter "R" which often comes out sounding like an "L." Evans thinks that's the best explanation for the conversion of Sarah to Sally and Mary to Molly. (The rhyming phenomenon also takes Mary from Molly to Polly.)

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Anne to Nancy

Some dialects of English used to use "mine" in place of "my." That's the best guess as to how we got from Anne to Nancy. It starts with folks saying "mine Anne," which got shortened to Nan and cute-ified into Nanny, Nansy and then Nancy.

You can see the "mine" phenomenon with other names that start with a vowel. Edward goes from "mine Edward" to "mine Ed" to Ned. Ellen goes from "mine Ellen" to "mine Elly" to Nelly.

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John to Jack

There are a couple of possible explanations for this one, Evans says. The first has to do with a popular "pet" form of names from Medieval England where folks added "kin" as a suffix. William was Wilkin. Peter was Perkin. Again, you can still see these nicknames today in surnames like Wilkinson and Perkins.

John, Evans says, would have been changed to Jenkin. That could have easily been shortened to Jenk which is a quick trip to Jack.

Another theory points back to the Norman invasion and the arrival of the name Jacques, which is actually the French form of James, not John. But the cultural mingling of Jenk and Jacques could have been enough to produce Jack from John.

Now That's Cool The academic study of names is called onomastics from the Greek onoma meaning "name."

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Originally Published: Jun 9, 2017
This map shows the number of tree species per hectare across the global forest range, which was derived using data from ~1.3 million global forest inventory plots compiled and standardized by the research team. Credit: Purdue University

Local species richness, the number of species that coexist in a local community, is a key measure of biodiversity. Scientists have known for more than 200 years that large numbers of local species live near the equator, then decline toward the middle and higher latitudes. However, why local species richness differs from place to place remains largely unknown.

Purdue University has now led a study involving 249 co-authors from more than 50 nations that analyzed a database of unrivaled size and detail to understand the geographic variation of local tree species richness across the world's forested regions and the underlying causes of this global pattern. They found that multiple factors, such as landforms, soil and human impact control local species richness, especially in the tropics.

"Conventionally, people would've expected that temperature and precipitation are the main drivers behind the local species richness and biodiversity patterns," said Jingjing Liang, associate professor of quantitative forest ecology at Purdue. "However, one of the surprises that we found, especially in the tropical region, is that it is actually a combination of different factors."

The study, based on 1.3 million sample plots and 55 million trees archived in the Global Forest Biodiversity Initiative database, appears in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution. The co-author list includes 11 Purdue scientists affiliated with the Forest Advanced Computing and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, the departments of Forestry and Natural Resources and Botany and Plant Pathology and the Rosen Center for Advanced Computing.

"It is exciting to see the leadership skills and technical knowledge that Jingjing brings to enable a global assessment of biodiversity patterns. He brought together an impressive group of experts and lots of data to accomplish this important task," said Karen Plaut, Purdue's Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture.

The researchers meshed the findings, covering 97% of the world's forests with previously established trends of species richness of other organisms by latitude. The trend starts at on average 98 species per hectare (an area covering nearly 2.5 acres) at the equator. The number of species declines until it becomes stable at about four species per hectare at both 50 degrees north and south of the equator. The team pinpointed locations of the most diverse tropical forests on Earth (in Amazonia with more than 200 tree species per hectare), as well as the most diverse temperate forests (in south-central Chile with up to 50 species per hectare).

"Given the very limited resources available for biodiversity conservation, the high-resolution species richness and co-limitation maps produced here are foundational to optimizing conservation efforts globally as well as locally," said study co-author Mo Zhou, associate professor of forest economics and management at Purdue. "They will help enable spatially explicit and coherent planning that is ecologically sound and economically efficient."

One-third of the study co-authors are based in traditionally underrepresented regions such as Africa and South America. Liang was able to harness the strengths of his highly diverse team via Science-i, a web-based platform that he founded.

"Every single aspect of the project is documented and made available to every co-author instantaneously, so everyone can discuss, contribute and provide inputs in a transparent, fair, and streamlined fashion," Liang said.

The research will help scientists better understand the dire statistics for life on Earth, said study co-author Bryan Pijanowski, director of Purdue's Center for Global Soundscapes.

"One out of every seven species is in the threatened-endangered category," he said. "Right now, we don't have good assessments of what creates the natural patterns of diversity that we've seen on Earth and how human disturbance affects that. The paper focuses on both of those aspects."

Credit: Purdue University

The resources at Purdue's Rosen Center for Advanced Computing, including the Brown and Bell supercomputing clusters, were needed to process the gigabytes of data that the co-authors provided. But first, the researchers had to organize and format their massive global data set in the same way, then analyze it with one modeling approach.

"The analysis and modeling framework that was used in this study is really quite novel in itself," said study co-author Douglass Jacobs, the Fred M. van Eck Professor of Forest Biology and associate department head of Purdue Extension. "One of the most exciting things about this paper is the potential to use the same type of framework to tackle even more pressing, more ambitious questions in the future."

The possibilities for future work include using the global network and database to look at patterns of change in biodiversity over a period of years.

"Scientists are trying to quantify climate-change impacts at a local, regional and, potentially, global scale," Jacobs said. Such studies could help answer questions related to how climate change affects tree growth and survival at various scales.

Scientists from underrepresented nations around the world can now leverage the Science-i platform to propose new ideas that the entire team can help support.

"There are brilliant young scientists from developing countries across the world, but they are limited by their resources to conduct high-impact research," Liang said.

A Ph.D. student working in the Jacobs lab already is taking advantage of the Science-i platform. Aziz Ebrahimi had studied the Persian walnut of Iran earlier in his career. Now he uses Science-i to survey the global diversity of walnut species.

A task ahead will be to make it easier for scientists everywhere to obtain clean, consistent and readily adapted datasets from underrepresented regions of the world.

"That could be a research initiative in its own right. And Jingjing has the platform to accomplish that goal," Jacobs said.

In a separate but related NASA-funded project, Liang and Pijanowski have combined their efforts to map global biodiversity patterns by using their datasets on tree diversity and animal sounds. With these datasetsthe largest of their kind in the worldthe duo will map global diversity patterns while accounting for their natural and human-driven causes. Plus, they continue to add new data collected by passive recording devices, drones, and sensors mounted on the International Space Station.

"We've been challenged for hundreds of years to understand biodiversity patterns on Earth," Pijanowski said. "It's only recently that we are able to collect the data and assemble it and bring it all together and have the computers help us to analyze it. I'm hoping that this is the first of many studies on different kinds of organisms at a global scale."

Explore further A global map to understand changing forests

More information: Jingjing Liang et al, Co-limitation towards lower latitudes shapes global forest diversity gradients, Nature Ecology & Evolution (2022). Journal information: Nature Ecology & Evolution Jingjing Liang et al, Co-limitation towards lower latitudes shapes global forest diversity gradients,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41559-022-01831-x
Photo: Family photo Scott Graham, 67, of Victoria has been missing in Spain since July 15.

The daughters of a Victoria man missing in Spain are heading there this week to search for him, as Victoria police appeal for help from the public.

Victoria police issued appeals to help find Scott Graham in English and Spanish on Monday. Officers here have been working with Spanish police to support their missing-person investigation.

Anyone in Spain who sees Graham is asked to call 122. Anyone outside of Spain with information about his whereabouts is asked to call the Victoria police report desk at 250-995-7654, extension one.

Graham, 67, was last seen at the Canadian Embassy in Madrid on July 15.

Since then, the family has heard nothing from the man they describe as a loving father who could be counted on to keep in touch during his holiday.

Its been a wild ride and it doesnt seem [as if] it will be over any time soon, daughter Georgia Graham said from Montreal on Monday.

Georgia, her partner James, and her sister Kaiza are going to Madrid together to seek if they can unearth new information, hoping that being on the ground in person in Spain will make a difference.

Family members have been working flat-out to gather information about Scott Grahams movements and health condition.

Graham requires daily anti-rejection medication after having a kidney transplant and his family isnt sure if he has been able to get more after losing his bag on a bus on July 11.

Georgia said it is time to go to Spain because they feel as though they have gone as far as possible in their search while based in Canada. Their first stops will be the Canadian Embassy in Madrid and the Madrid police station.

We are going because it is really, really challenging to get clear information from anyone, she said. I still dont really know what the police have done. A police officer friend has helped them with a list of avenues to ask about.

Graham, who is retired, went to Amsterdam to visit friends before embarking on a solo trip to Spain and Portugal.

While in Spain, he was left behind at a bus stop, his passport and medication carried off by the bus heading to the resort community of San Sebastian, in northeastern Spain.

Graham has also experienced small strokes and could have cognitive impairments, his daughter said.

The most recent communication from Graham was through an online update to his brother, explaining what had happened.

His worried family has spoken to an official at the Canadian Embassy in Madrid, where Graham went to apply for a new passport.

He was supposed to return on July 18 to pick up the document but he did not show up. He did not get on his July 29 return flight from Amsterdam to Vancouver.

Georgia said the family has learned that he went to hospital in both San Sebastian and in Madrid. He was seeking new medication in Madrid but they have been unable to find out if it was provided. They do not know the name of the hotel he was staying at.

The Graham family has been contacting news organizations and making social media posts to spread the word, asking anyone who can help to contact them at [email protected]

Many offers from Spain of help with transportation, translation and navigation have come in, Georgia said.

A GoFundMe page called Support the Search for Scott Graham has been set up to help the family with their search in Spain.
Schematic of the EEHC experiment. The upper beamline shows the linac which consists of a photocathode rf gun, a laser heater (LH) system, an X-band linearizer, a bunch compressor (BC), S-band and C-band accelerating structures, a C-band transverse deflecting structure (TDS), and a dipole for beam dump. The under beamline shows the undulator system. The first stage is an EEHG consisting of two seed lasers (seed 1 and seed 2), two modulator undulators, two dispersion sections, and a radiator. The second stage is a typical HGHG with one modulator, one dispersion section, and a radiator. These two stages are connected with a fresh bunch chicane. The FEL pulses from two stages can be detected separately by diagnostic stations located downstream of each stage. The longitudinal phase space of the electron beam can be measured by using the TDS and the dipole magnet. Credit: Optica (2022). DOI: 10.1364/OPTICA.466064

A research team from Shanghai Advanced Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has proposed an external seeding mechanism, termed echo-enabled harmonic cascade (EEHC), for generating coherent and ultrashort soft X-ray pulses.

The results were published in Optica.

The generation of intense, tunable, and fully coherent pulses in the X-ray regime has been a long-standing challenge for laser technologies. The urgent need for intense X-ray light sources has prompted the development of X-ray free-electron lasers (FELs). However, most of the presently existing X-ray FEL facilities are faced with limited temporal coherence and large shot-to-shot fluctuations.

An efficient way to generate "laser-like" FEL is to employ an external laser source as the "seed" to dominate the gain process and control the output properties. Current limitations on seeded FELs are the low harmonic up-conversion efficiency and long output pulse duration.

The proposed EEHC mechanism uses echo-enabled harmonic generation as the first stage, producing intense extreme ultraviolet pulses that seed the second stage X-ray free-electron laser (FEL) with the high-gain harmonic generation setup.

The mechanism shows that 100 MW-level peak power, transform-limited soft X-ray pulses with tunable pulse duration from 25 fs to 55 fs can be generated. Comparing with previous demonstrated seeded FEL mechanisms, EEHC holds the superiorities of much higher harmonic up-conversion efficiency and tunable pulse durations.

Besides the temporal coherence, researchers have also demonstrated a unique feature of EEHC on generating isolated ultrashort pulses. The supreme up-frequency conversion efficiency and flexible pulse length control of this EEHC mechanism allows it to exceed the current limitations of seeded FELs while preserving the coherence of the seed.

More information: Chao Feng et al, Coherent and ultrashort soft x-ray pulses from echo-enabled harmonic cascade free-electron lasers, Optica (2022). Journal information: Optica Chao Feng et al, Coherent and ultrashort soft x-ray pulses from echo-enabled harmonic cascade free-electron lasers,(2022). DOI: 10.1364/OPTICA.466064
Pigeons are widely treated with contempt by the public. Credit: Fercast/Shutterstock

If you ask people why they like their favorite animal, they will tell you about the incredible things the creature can do, its relatable characteristics or its interesting looks. Few would be likely to cite the pigeon as theirs. Many people think of them as vermin rather than wildlife.

People's utter disdain for feral pigeons breaks my heart. Sit in a park at lunchtime, anywhere in the world, and you're almost certain to witness people lashing out at pigeons.

I see people stamping their feet and kicking as the birds weave in and out of their legs to snaffle leftover crumbs. But few people stop to think why there are pigeons under the bench they're sitting on. We brought them into our cities, yet so many despise them. It hasn't always been this way; we have a rich and long relationship with the humble pigeon.

Feral pigeons are the descendants of wild rock doves. We domesticated them centuries ago, for food and their supreme navigation skills. They thrive in our cities because our tall buildings and window ledges mimic their natural home; caves and cliffs. Our waste provides ample food.

People are enthusiastic about homing pigeons but there isn't much difference between homing pigeons and feral pigeons. It just depends on whether they live in someone's loft as a captive pigeon or the local town square.

Who are you calling bird-brained?

The homing abilities of pigeons are legendary. We are still learning about how amazing these birds are. They can do basic math, on a par with monkeys, and can distinguish real words from made up ones.

Homing pigeons can find their way using smell, landmarks, Earth's magnetic field and infrasound (sound waves with a frequency too low for humans to hear). They can also follow each other and are able to learn routes from one another. Feral pigeons generally mate for life, and they are very attentive parents. The adults produce a crop milk, which they gently drip-feed to their chicks.

Our fascination with their homing abilities continues today, with tens of thousands of pigeon races around the world every year. Pedigree winners sell for over 1 million.

Image problems

We have such disdain for the pigeons living amongst us in our towns and cities. But not so long ago we were fascinated with these creatures. In the mid 1800s we started to appreciate pigeons for their good looks. During this period, many new breeds emerged, including fantails, Jacobins, tumblers and barbs.

Their exaggerated features attracted the attention of Charles Darwin. He was a pigeon aficionado and used this dramatic example of diversity within a species to convey his ideas about natural selection in The Origin of Species. It is almost as if we have seen feral pigeons too often to appreciate their rainbow throat feathers and cute, plump bodies. These features would be prized in a rare species.

Warrior birds

Feral pigeons are true survivors. Having spent many hours observing pigeons in St James Park in London, I have seen them caked in oil, milk and human vomit. I have watched pigeons with one foot missing, both feet missing, with only one leg, or trapped in bits of litter. Yet they soldier on. The normal outpouring of sympathy towards animals in distress is absent for feral pigeons. Many people have told me that far from inspiring sympathy, pigeons' battle scars only add to their dislike: the birds look "messy." Feral pigeons are thought to be prone to losing toes and feet because human hair and netting tangles around them, cutting off the blood supply. They can also get their feet stuck in chewing gum. Our litter harms pigeons and then we treat them with contempt for the way it makes them look.

Pigeons are some of the most decorated animals in history. No less than 32 pigeons have won the prestigious Dickin Medal, the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross. Homing pigeons were used intensively during both the first and second world wars, to deliver vital messages between battalions and fly with cameras on for reconnaissance missions. Perhaps the most famous war pigeon is Cher Ami, who in 1918 was awarded the French Croix de guerre medal, for delivering messages from an encircled battalion under heavy fire. Cher Ami was shot through the breast, blinded in one eye, and his right leg was only hanging on by a tendon by the time he delivered his messages.

For many people, feral pigeons are some of the only wildlife they interact with on a regular basis. These interesting birds live right on our doorsteps. Next time you're outdoors, give pigeons 30 seconds of your time. Watch them. Witness their intricate social interactions and see the tender moments between pairs as they preen each other and bring nesting material as gifts. However, if you really don't want them around during your lunchbreak the best advice is: be a less messy eater.

Explore further Rare wild ancestors of feral pigeons found living on British and Irish islands

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Elevation and forest types of sites selected for the Sierra dust study. Credit: Mia Maltz/UCR

Dust from all over the world is landing in the Sierra Nevada mountains carrying microbes that are toxic to both plants and humans.

Research from UC Riverside shows higher concentrations of the dust are landing at lower elevations, where people are more likely to be hiking.

"Pathogenic dust is becoming more of a threat as the Earth gets drier and more parched. As it turns out, you can't go climb a mountain to get away from it all," said UCR microbial ecologist Mia Maltz, who led the study.

The researchers detail the types of fungi and bacteria landing from low to high elevations in the mountains in a new Frontiers in Microbiology paper. "Some of these microbes can cause crop failures and human respiratory disease," said Maltz.

At the lower elevations, the researchers found more powdery mildews and sooty molds, which can lead to forest blight and crop losses. They also found fungi like Cryptococcus, a sticky yeast, and the plant pathogen Alternaria, both of which can be inhaled or form infections in human lungs.

The researchers were not surprised to learn that dust in the Sierra Nevada was a mixture of soil particles from as far away as China's Gobi Desert and as near as California's San Joaquin Valley. They were surprised, however, to learn about the mix of microbes in the dust, and where they landed in the mountains.

Microbes discovered in Sierra Nevada dust. Credit: Emma Aronson/UCR

They thought that evenly mixed Asian and local dust would have the greatest diversity of bacteria and fungi on board. Instead, they found that when the dust was more mixed, it had lower species richness.

Dust samples were collected at four Critical Zone Observatory network sites in the Sierras, at elevations ranging from 400 to 2,700 meters. The researchers suspect microbes steadily fell out of the dust as they traveled, which may be why fewer types of bacteria and fungi were found at the top than at the base of the mountains.

"I like to think of diversity as being a good thing, like a safety net. You could lose a few and still sustain the essential functions of the community," Maltz said. "In this case, loss of microbial diversity at the higher elevations doesn't seem to be a negative; we're losing pathogens instead."

Some dust traveling the globe and landing in the Sierra Nevada is natural, and even beneficial for mountain ecosystems. Dust carries fungi and bacteria that help decompose organic debris and enrich the soil.

UC Riverside scientists extracting microbes from Sierra Nevada dust samples. Credit: Mia Maltz/UCR

There are also helpful microbes in the dust that enable plants to absorb nutrients like phosphorus that are needed for growth. Pine trees, in this ecosystem, derive more than 80% of what they need to produce their needles from dust.

"Without dust, trees wouldn't have what they need to flourish and fix carbon from the atmosphere at the level they're currently doing it," said UCR environmental microbiologist and study co-author Emma Aronson.

However, in a future climate, there are likely to be more droughts, resulting in more dust. If a greater proportion of the microbes landing in the Sierra Nevada are pathogenic, that could affect which species of plants and animals are able to persist.

"With increased die-off of large conifers and other plants, there would be less carbon sequestered than there has been historically, and the atmosphere could get even hotter," Aronson said.

UCR scientists erecting fences to keep cattle from damaging dust collection instruments. Credit: Emma Aronson/UCR

Though the researchers did not set out to study climate change, the study offers a glimpse of what could happen when there is less snowpack and longer dry seasons.

"Mountains are a good natural laboratory for climate change because it's cooler and wetter at the top, and warmer and drier at the base. They give us predictive power about how ecosystems will adapt to the changes we're already seeing," Maltz said.

Explore further Modeling suggests loss of biocrusts by 2070 could result in increase of 15% more dust emissions

More information: Mia R. Maltz et al, Landscape Topography and Regional Drought Alters Dust Microbiomes in the Sierra Nevada of California, Frontiers in Microbiology (2022). Journal information: Frontiers in Microbiology Mia R. Maltz et al, Landscape Topography and Regional Drought Alters Dust Microbiomes in the Sierra Nevada of California,(2022). DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.856454
Common noctule bat with GPS tag. Credit: Manuel Roeleke/Universitat Potsdam

Social hunting strategies are already well documented in many animal species when prey is distributed in an unpredictable way across the landscape. In a new research paper, Manuel Roeleke and his team from the University of Potsdam and the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (Leibniz-IZW) have now demonstrated for the first time that animalsin this case, the common noctule batjoin together and form a mobile sensory network in order to increase their chances of finding their prey. The analyses published today in the scientific journal PNAS show that predators can adjust to variable environmental conditions through flexible foraging strategies by networking with conspecifics.

Many predators need to find food on a daily basis. If the prey is irregularly distributed across the landscape and only available for a short time, this task seems like searching for the needle in a haystack. Animals that depend on such unpredictable prey have therefore often developed social strategies for foraging: During the search for prey, individuals are in contact with each other and exchange information about their environment. An international research team led by the University of Potsdam and Leibniz-IZW has now observed for the first time that common noctule bats (Nyctalus noctula) temporarily join together to form mobile, sensory networks while foraging.

"The common noctule is particularly well suited for such investigations because its preyswarms of insectsdisperse completely unpredictably in open airspace," explains the paper's lead author, Manuel Roeleke. "Moreover, the distance over which the bats can locate the insects via ultrasound is relatively small, about 10 to 15 meters. This makes it difficult for them to track their prey. On the other hand, the bats can perceive their own conspecifics over much greater distances, under ideal conditions up to 160 meters. Searching in a group should therefore be more successful."

In total, the scientists analyzed the flight patterns of 81 common noctule bats. This was made possible by small radio transmitters that send signals to an array of antennas. Florian Jeltsch from the University of Potsdam explains: "With the state-of-the-art 'ATLAS' system, we can simultaneously record the movement of dozens of individual animals. Thanks to the great support of local farmers and private landowners, we have been able to operate the tracking technology in the Uckermark district in Eastern Germany since 2018a unique opportunity to study animal movements and biodiversity in the European agricultural landscape."

His colleague Christian Voigt from Leibniz-IZW adds: "With the 'ATLAS' system, it is now possible to record the interactions of bats in flight. Our data confirm the theory of mobile sensory networks: During the search for insects, the bats fan out but remain in acoustic contact and, if necessary, adjust their flight paths to one another in order to search as large an area as possible." If an individual bat in the network finds a swarm of prey insects, its neighbors are informed of this via changes in flight movements and via ultrasonic calls specifically used for insect hunting. This gradually makes all animals in the sensory network aware of the rewarding hunting area.

The scientific team compared the foraging efficiency of "networked" bats and of individual hunters as a function of group size and food distribution. In order to achieve this, they used a computer model developed by co-author Cara Gallagher using the empirically determined movement patterns. "Networking and exchanging information proved particularly useful for the bats when food sources were widely distributed in space," Roeleke explains. "Thus, our model showed that 'networked' animals needed 40% less time to track down prey than bats that ignored their conspecifics while foraging."

By foraging in groups, bats can find prey even in large-scale cultivated landscapes and thereby also effectively contribute to the control of agricultural insect "pests." If this is to continue in the future, the bats require consistent protection, particularly their system of roosts. When local populations become too small in numbers, the bats can no longer form efficient networks. As solitary animals, it is then difficult for them to find food quickly and reliably.

Explore further Bats depend on teamwork when foraging over farmland

More information: Manuel Roeleke et al, Insectivorous bats form mobile sensory networks to optimize prey localization: The case of the common noctule bat, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2022). Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Manuel Roeleke et al, Insectivorous bats form mobile sensory networks to optimize prey localization: The case of the common noctule bat,(2022). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203663119

Provided by Leibniz-Institut fur Zoo- und Wildtierforschung (IZW) im Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Self-proclaimed "cat people" might not always know what's best for their pets when it comes to showing them affection, new research suggestsand it could affect their cat's behavior during interactions.

Cat welfare scientists at Nottingham Trent University and the University of Nottingham looked at how people's personalities, demographics and previous experience with cats affected how they approached and interacted with them.

The study was a collaboration with Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, who supported and funded the research at their London cattery. The team was looking to see the extent to which participants engaged with cats in the ways that they are known to typically prefer, in terms of handling, petting and general interaction.

Previous research by members of the team suggested that during interactions, letting cats choose when to be petted, generally trying to touch them less, paying close attention to their behavioral reactions and body language and focusing touch primarily to the base of the cat's ears, cheeks and under their chin are the best ways to increase their affection and reduce aggression.

In the new study, which involved NTU's School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, the researchers required 120 participants to spend five minutes in Battersea's cattery environment interacting with three cats they did not know.

Participants were asked to let the cat come to them and not to follow it, but otherwise were encouraged to interact with the cats as they normally would at home for example.

Surprisingly, the researchers found that participants who subjectively rated themselves as more "knowledgeable and experienced" with regards to cats were more likely to touch areas of the cat's body they typically find uncomfortable, such as the base of the tail and the tummy.

Additionally, participants who reported having lived with greater numbers of cats and with cats for more years were less likely to give cats sufficient choice and control during interactions, touched cats more and in typically less preferred areas of their body such as their tail, legs and along their backs.

Participants also completed a widely-used questionnaire to assess personality and the extent to which owners fell within one of the five broad personality traits: agreeableness, conscientiousness, extroversion, neuroticism and openness.

Older people and those scoring higher for the personality trait "Neuroticism" tended to try to hold and restrain cats more, while extroverts were more likely to initiate contact with cats more and touch the areas of the cat's body that are generally less preferred.

In contrast, participants scoring higher in "Agreeableness" were less likely to touch the more sensitive areas of the cat's body. People that reported having some formal work experience involving cats or other animals were also found to be more "cat friendly" in their approaches to interactions, letting cats take control and being more sensitive to their needs.

The researchers highlight that people's previous experiences, personalities and perceptions of their own skills can potentially have an important impact on the behavior and well-being of cats and other domestic pets.

Lead researcher Dr. Lauren Finka said: "Our findings suggest that certain characteristics we might assume would make someone good at interacting with catshow knowledgeable they say they are, their cat ownership experiences and being oldershould not always be considered as reliable indicators of a person's suitability to adopt certain cats, particularly those with specific handling or behavioral needs.

"The good news is, however, that we can use this information in a really positive way to develop targeted educational interventions to ensure that everyone is aware of the best ways to interact with cats to maximize their enjoyment from interactions with us. For example, Battersea recently developed an animation which demonstrates optimal ways we can behave around cats.

"Of course, every cat is an individual and many will have specific preferences for how they prefer to be interacted with. However, there are also some good general principles to follow in order to ensure every cat is as comfortable as possible and that their specific needs are being met.

"Importantly, within shelters, we should also avoid discriminating against potential adopters with no previous cat ownership experience, because with the right support, they may make fantastic cat guardians."

The study, which also involved SRUC and the University of Edinburgh, is published in the journal Scientific Reports.

Explore further Study: Letting cats decide when to be petted avoids hostility and increases their affection

More information: Lauren R. Finka et al, Investigation of humans individual differences as predictors of their animal interaction styles, focused on the domestic cat, Scientific Reports (2022). Journal information: Scientific Reports Lauren R. Finka et al, Investigation of humans individual differences as predictors of their animal interaction styles, focused on the domestic cat,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15194-7
Preparation and observation of spin-helix states. a-g, We prepare a transverse spin helix with a polar angle of ninety degrees (a) or arbitrary polar angle . Black arrows indicate the direction of the spins of the atoms (spheres). After initializing the system in a spin helix, we let go of the atoms and watch the spin pattern decay over time under the action of the Heisenberg XXZ Hamiltonian (c-f) and then measure the spin polarization (g) by taking a picture with a camera. Credit: Jepsen et al.

Researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the MIT-Harvard Center for Ultracold Atoms, Harvard University and Stanford University have recently unveiled the existence of unique helical spin states in Heisenberg quantum magnets. Their observations, published in a paper in Nature Physics, could have important implications for the simulation of spin-related physical processes and dynamics in quantum many-body systems.

"When we started this project, our primary goal was to investigate the dynamics of quantum magnetism," Eunice (Yoo Kyung) Lee and Wen Wei Ho, two of the researchers who carried out the study, told Phys.org. "Quantum magnetism underlies many of the technologies we use today, including memory storage devices, and is thus of fundamental interest."

To model quantum magnetism, one can depict each elementary particle as carrying a spin (e.g., like a spinning top), which can point in different directions. In this context, two nearby spins can exchange their relative orientations via an intermediate state with both particles in the same place.

"This idea is captured by a simple textbook model called the Heisenberg spin model, which we can realize in one dimension (i.e., a chain) in our experimental platform using ultracold atoms," Lee explained. "Generically if we prepare a simple pattern of spins, say all spins aligned, then over time the pattern gets messed up: there will be a random mixture of spins pointing in all different directions. This process, known as thermalization, is what eventually destroys information."

Observation of phantom helix states. a-e, When we measure the decay rate  as a function of the winding angle Q, we see that there is a minimum in the decay rate. The location of the minimum tells us the Heisenberg anisotropy  is. For (a-e) we demonstrate the different values of  we observe. Credit: Jepsen et al.

A recent study by a team of theoretical physicists at University of Wuppertal and University of Ljubljana suggested the existence of a simple pattern of spins that does not evolve at all and is thus less affected by thermalization. These spins, spiraling along the chain in the x-y plane and with a certain pitch, are known as "phantom helix states." In contrast to other states, phantom helix states should theoretically be able to store information for very long periods of time.

"The Heisenberg model is almost one hundred years old, so we were especially excited by these surprising new 'phantom helix states' and set out to observe them," Lee said. "To do so, we had to prepare a spin-helix state with a particular wavelength, then watch how the contrast of the helix (i.e., the amplitude of our sinusoidal spin pattern) decayed over time. If the phantom helix state existed, we would see a minimum in the decay rate of the contrast. We indeed did observe this minimum, telling us that we found the long-lived phantom helix states that we were looking for!"

The recent paper by Lee and her colleagues also builds on their past studies, particularly in terms of the strategies they used to characterize how the contrast of the system would decay over time. To confirm that the decay rates they observed were consistent with theoretical predictions, they also used calculations carried out by Wen Wei Ho, one of their collaborators, in a previous paper.

The goal of their new study was to observe the "phantom" helix states (i.e., states that contribute zero energy but finite momentum) predicted by theorists at University of Wuppertal in an experimental setting. To do this, Lee and her colleagues loaded ultracold lithium atoms into a 3D optical lattice, which was created using three standing waves of intense laser beams.

Tuning the anisotropy with magnetic fields. When we tune the magnetic field, we tune the interactions between particles and therefore the interaction anisotropy . Far away from the Feshbach resonances at 845G and 894G (dotted vertical lines), the theory including higher-order corrections (dashed lines) fit our data very well. Solid lines are for data without any higher-order corrections. Near the Feshbach resonances, however, there are large deviations from our expected values. Thus, the phantom helix state gives us a new tool which has allowed us to discover surprising many-body physics, in what we expected would be one of the simplest known many-body models. Credit: Jepsen et al.

"We initialized our spin helix by rotating our magnets to the transverse plane, then winding the spins until they create a transverse helix; this creates our sinusoidal spin pattern," Lee said. "By watching the decay of the spin pattern for various wavelengths, we extract the characteristic lifetimes of these states. The winding angle (or the wave vector) of the helix with the minimum decay rate is the long-lived phantom helix state."

In addition to observing the theoretically predicted phantom helix states, Lee and her colleagues were able to identify a way to measure the interaction anisotropy in their model. This is essentially the strength of interactions between transverse and longitudinal directions, which translates into specific spin dynamics.

"The Heisenberg model that we used has different interaction strengths between the xy (transverse) and z (longitudinal) directions," Lee said. "We can change this interaction anisotropy, , by tuning our magnetic field and changing the scattering lengths between our particles. This is the only important parameter in our Hamiltonian, and thus controls all the spin dynamics in this simple but rich system."

In the past, physicists could only estimate the interaction anisotropy using theoretical models. However, the findings gathered by this team of researchers show that phantom helix states can be used to directly measure this parameter, which is particularly important for performing quantum simulations. In the future, the results by Lee and her colleagues could thus prove invaluable for increasing the reliability and fidelity of different quantum simulations.

Catching Bethe phantoms: Long-lived spin-helix patterns in quantum magnets. Elementary units of magnetism, so-called spins (black arrows), typically move around and interact with other spins, in a chain of single atoms (the colored spheres). However, researchers have now discovered a highly energetically excited, yet long-lived spin pattern, where the spins wind in a so-called spin helix, where spins do not move at all. The background shows a real image of such a stable spin helix pattern, revealing a high contrast periodic modulation of the spins. Credit: Jepsen et al.

"We also found major contributions to spin dynamics from higher-order terms," Lee said. "Theory predicts the anisotropy reasonably well when the interactions between two particles are small; this is the regime in which quantum magnetism is typically studied because the model breaks down when interactions are large. However, we found that the spin model is still a valid description at large interaction strengths, although the theory for the calculated anisotropy completely breaks down."

Essentially, the findings gathered by Lee and her colleagues suggest that theoretical models describing spin dynamics are incomplete, as they do not always produce reliable anisotropy estimations. In their future works, they thus plan to explore the limitations of existing models more in depth, while also outlining the mechanism behind phantom helix states more in depth.

Finally, the recent work by this team of researchers also hints at a potential link between phantom helix states and quantum many-body scars. Quantum many-body scars are a unique set of states in which a system's ergodicity (i.e., the impossibility of reducing it into smaller components) breaks down.

"In higher dimensions or for longer-range interactions, a system is no longer integrable, which means that it no longer has special conserved quantities that prevent a state from thermalizing," Lee said. "However, despite these systems' non-integrability, we show rigorously that there exist analogous phantom helix states that do not thermalize at all. Non-thermalizing states in non-integrable, many-body systems are examples of 'quantum many-body scars,' which are currently under intense investigation by the quantum community."

Ultracold atoms live! A cloud of ultracold lithium atoms is visible as a bright red glowing spot, trapped in the middle of a vacuum chamber, at a temperature of a millikelvin, more than a thousand times colder than interstellar space. These atoms are further cooled to nanokelvin temperatures and assembled into magnetic materials for further study. Credit: Nathan Fiske.

While many other teams of researchers have introduced models that host quantum many-body scars, these models have proved to be very difficult to realize in an experimental settings. In contrast, the XXZ Heisenberg model created by Lee and her colleagues describes one of the simplest many-body systems to realize, which can also support scars.

"Considering the Heisenberg model's long and rather famous history, it is astonishing that this has been overlooked so far and is very promising for future studies of quantum many-body dynamics," Lee said. "We are now using the phantom helix states as a sensitive tool to measure spin dynamics in strongly-interacting regions, for which rigorous theoretical treatments do not exist. This has already revealed to us even more fundamental surprises about the behavior of particles in optical lattices and we plan to submit results of this investigation for publication in the coming weeks."

Red and green laser beams are sent into the vacuum chamber from many different directions, which is how the researchers control and observe ultracold atoms. Credit: Nathan Fiske.

The team's experimental observation of these long-lived phantom helix states could soon pave the way for numerous follow-up studies by other physicists worldwide. In addition, it could lead to the development of alternative and more effective quantum simulation techniques.

"In the future, thanks to their long lifetimes and robustness against quantum fluctuations, phantom helix states could also be used to initialize long-lived many-body states that are otherwise difficult to prepare," Lee added. "Additionally, we might create quantum many-body scars by generalizing our system to two or even three dimensions."

Explore further Magnetic spins that 'freeze' when heated

 2022 Science X Network
Belugas are a protected species that cannot survive long in fresh water.

French officials are moving ahead with a delicate plan to transport a beluga whale back to the ocean after it swam far up the Seine river toward Paris, putting its life in danger, a marine expert said Tuesday.

The four-metre (13-foot) cetacean was discovered a week ago and appears sick and underweight but its condition is "satisfactory," Isabelle Brasseur of the Marineland sea animal park in southern France, Europe's biggest, told AFP.

"As of this morning we have an idea of something that could work, we're going to explain and refine it with the people who are going to help us," she said.

Belugas are a protected species that cannot survive long in fresh water.

This one is currently around 130 kilometres (80 miles) inland from the English Channel at Saint-Pierre-La-Garenne in Normandy.

"What's exceptional is that here the banks of the Seine are not accessible for vehicles... everything is going to have to be done by hand," Brasseur said.

It is stuck behind a lock and unable to move further inlandit's now some 80 kilometres from the French capitalbut is not turning around, and officials warn that attempts to "nudge" the beluga back toward the sea are not viable.

The idea is to take the beluga by road to an undisclosed seawater basin where it can be treated before being released.

But the challenges are considerable and the journey is likely to further stress an animal weighing 800 kilogrammes (nearly 1,800 pounds).

The Sea Shepherd France NGO, which is assisting the operation, said in a statement Tuesday that tranquilisation was not an option, since belugas are so-called "voluntary breathers" that need to be awake to inhale air.

Appeal for donations

"In any case, we have to get it out of there... and try to figure out what is wrong," Brasseur said.

Veterinarians will keep constant surveillance during the move.

"There may be internal problems that we can't see," she said despite the fact that belugas are "extremely hardy" as a species.

Sea Shepherd has issued an appeal for donations of heavy-duty ropes, nets, mattresses and other equipment.

Belugas are normally found only in cold Arctic waters, and while they migrate south in the autumn to feed as ice forms, they rarely venture so far.

According to France's Pelagis Observatory, specialised in sea mammals, the nearest beluga population is off the Svalbard archipelago, north of Norway, 3,000 kilometres from the Seine.

Explore further Beluga whale is now stationary in Seine: NGO

 2022 AFP
Counterterrorism operations in Afghanistan and the war in Ukraine underscore the importance of unmanned aircraft to future military capabilities, said University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign political scientist Nicholas Grossman, the author of Drones and Terrorism: Asymmetric Warfare and the Threat to Global Security. . Credit: L. Brian Stauffer

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign political science professor Nicholas Grossman is the author of "Drones and Terrorism: Asymmetric Warfare and the Threat to Global Security" and specializes in international relations. Grossman spoke with News Bureau business and law editor Phil Ciciora about the implications of the U.S. killing former al-Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahri by drone in Afghanistan.

The killing of Ayman al-Zawahri by drone was performed with minimal collateral damage, according to U.S. military officials. If the U.S. military has these so-called "over the horizon" capabilities with lethal drones, does this argue against "forever wars" and occupying foreign countries?

Al-Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahri was in a Taliban safehouse in Kabul when the U.S. killed him with a drone strike. This shows that Afghanistan has become friendlier to al-Qaida since U.S. forces left last year, as critics of the withdrawal had warned. But it also shows that the U.S. retains the ability to track and kill targets there. The goal of occupying Afghanistan was to dislodge al-Qaida and establish a local partner who wouldn't allow them to return, which eventually failed. But American "over the horizon" strike capabilities have improved since then, which gives the U.S. more options.

Still, with the government of Afghanistan helping, rather than fighting, al-Qaida, the U.S. will have less intelligence about their operations, and the group will likely be more dangerous. That does not, however, automatically make devoting resources to occupying Afghanistan a worthwhile trade-off.

How important will unmanned aerial vehicles be to the future of air combat?

Human beings still have better situational awareness than computers, and can engage in moral reasoning and improvise if something unexpected happens. So people will continue to be responsible for the highest-level aerial tasksair-to-air combat, top-line stealth aircraft, plane-based nuclear strikes. But with the exception of a hot war with China, which both China and America will work hard to avoid, the U.S. can probably establish air superiority against any adversary.

With control of the skies, slower, less maneuverable drones can surveil and fire upon targets. However, drones don't put a human pilot at risk, and should eventually be able to conduct maneuvers at angles and speeds that would make a pilot pass out. The Department of Defense aims for unmanned aircraft to be able to conduct all aerial missions by around 2040.

What role have Western-supplied drones played in leveling the playing field for the Ukrainians in their defense of their homeland against the invading Russian military?

The most impactful weapons the U.S. and other NATO countries have given Ukraine are man-portable anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles, and especially the recent deliveries of mobile rocket artillery systems known as HIMARS.

But drones have certainly helped. Earlier in the conflict, the Turkish-provided Bayraktar TB2, a model similar to the U.S.-made Predator drone, allowed Ukraine to fire on overextended Russian ground columns.

As Russia was forced to scale back its ambitions and the war became a grinding territorial battle in Ukraine's south and east, the Ukrainians have made use of small, U.S.-provided kamikaze drones called the Switchblade and the Phoenix Ghost. These "non-line-of-sight" weapons allow an operator to fly the drone from miles away, use the camera to pinpoint a target and then crash into it with an explosive. They're especially useful for Ukraine's counteroffensive to retake Russian-occupied cities and towns, because the Ukrainians won't replicate the Russian tactic of pounding inhabited areas with indiscriminate artillery fire before advancing.

How worried should we be about our adversaries creating drones capable of striking U.S. interests?

Not very. The U.S. has extensive electronic warfare and anti-air capabilities to counter enemy drones if necessary. Terrorists could sneak some small ones through to launch attacks, jury-rigging inexpensive, commercially available models to function as kamikaze drones, like the Switchblade. Iran has a fairly advanced drone industry, which adds to Hezbollah's arsenal pointed at Israel, and would help in the event of a future U.S. invasion. China, however, may be able to develop drone swarms and other unmanned technology that the U.S. would find challenging. But America's capabilities remain more advanced and likely will be for a while.

Does the killing of al-Zawahri and last summer's withdrawal from Afghanistan mark the end of an era in U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East?

The U.S. withdrawal from Iraq in 2011 and from Afghanistan in 2021 marked the end of the post-9/11 "forever wars." Al-Zawahri was the last main 9/11 plotter still at large. The U.S. and Pakistan captured the attack's principal architect, Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, in 2003, and he remains in American custody. U.S. forces killed Osama bin Laden in 2011, so al-Zawahri's death provides a bookend on 9/11. But the U.S. still has some troops in Syria and Iraq, as well as counterterrorism forces throughout Africa. Al-Qaida, ISIS and other groups remain a threat. The U.S. may drop the "War on Terror" framing, but the fight against terrorists will go on indefinitely.

As for broader foreign policy questionsIran, Saudi Arabia, Israel, nuclear proliferation, global energy markets and other concerns will keep the U.S. engaged in the Middle East for the foreseeable future, albeit somewhat differently. But American focus has shifted more to geopolitical competition with Russia and China, especially since Russia's invasion of Ukraine and China's increased pressure on Taiwan.

Explore further DJI halts Russia, Ukraine business to prevent drone misuse
Antarctic sea ice cover was at its lowest for the month of July since satellite records began 44 years ago.

Last month saw the lowest extent of Antarctic sea ice on record for July, according to the European Union's satellite monitoring group.

The Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) found Antarctic sea ice extent reached 15.3 million square kilometers (5,900,000 square miles)some 1.1 million km2, or seven percent, below the 1991-2020 average for July.

This was the lowest ice cover for July since satellite records began 44 years ago, and followed record low Antarctic sea ice levels for June too.

C3S said the low ice values continued a string of below-average monthly extents observed since February 2022.

The service said in its monthly bulletin the Southern Ocean saw "widespread areas of below-average sea ice concentration" last month.

Arctic sea ice cover meanwhile was four percent lower than average, making it the 12th lowest July sea ice extent on record.

In a month that saw temperature records broken across parts of northern Europe and Britain, C3S said July was drier than average for much of the continent, noting a number of low-precipitation records in several locations.

"These conditions affected the economy locally and facilitated the spread and intensification of wildfires," it said.

C3S said July was also abnormally dry across much of North America, South America, Central Asia and Australia.

Climate change makes extreme heat and drought more likely to occur.

"We can expect to continue seeing more frequent and longer periods of extremely high temperatures, as global temperatures increase further," said senior C3S scientist Freja Vamborg.

The service said last month was however wetter than usual in eastern Russia, northern China and in a large wet band spanning from eastern Africa across Asia to northwest India.

Explore further Portugal sets new July heat record, worsening severe drought

 2022 AFP
Comparison of RECODE performance. (Top) Recovery of gene expression distribution (Bottom) Detection of rare cell type (NodeNotochordal plate) and discovery of cell differentiation trajectory. Credit: Kyoto University/Yusuke Imoto

Since scientists first mapped the complete human genome, attention has now turned to the question of how cells use this master copy of genetic instructions. It is known that when genes are switched on, parts of the DNA sequences in the cell nucleus are copied into shorter string-like molecules, RNA, that deliver the molecules essential for survival and cell-specific functions.

Understanding the profiles of RNA in a cell can show which genes are active and allow researchers to speculate what the cell is doing. The technology for measuring RNA by massively parallel DNA sequencer, RNA-sequencing, has become a standard technique over the past decade. More recently, rapid technological advances permit RNA sequencing at the single-cell level from thousands of cells in parallel, accelerating progress in the biomedical sciences. But quantifying RNAs from such a tiny material poses great technical challenges. Even with state-of-the-art equipment, data produced from single-cell RNA sequencing data contain large detection errors, including the so-called "drop-out effect." Moreover, even small errors in the calculations for a large number of genes can quickly add up so that any useful information is lost among signal noise.

Now, a team from the Kyoto University Institute for Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi) has developed a new mathematical method that can eliminate the noise and thus enable the extraction of clear signals from single-cell RNA sequencing data. The new method successfully decreases random sampling noise in the data to enable a precise and complete understanding of a cell's activity. The research has recently been published in the journal Life Science Alliance.

The lead author of the paper, Yusuke Imoto from ASHBi, explains, "Each gene represents a different dimension in RNA sequencing data, which means that tens of thousands of dimensions must be collected across multiple cells and analyzed. Even the slightest noise in one dimension can majorly impact the downstream data analyses so that potentially important signals are lost. This is why we call this the 'curse of dimensionality.'"

To break the curse of dimensionality, the Kyoto team has developed a new noise reduction method, RECODEstanding for "resolution of the curse of dimensionality"to remove the random sampling noise from single-cell RNA sequencing data. RECODE applies high-dimensional statistical theories to recover accurate results, even for genes expressed at very low levels.

First, the team tested their method on data from a broadly well-studied cell population, human peripheral blood. They confirmed that RECODE successfully removes the curse of dimensionality to reveal expression patterns for individual genes close to their expected values.

Next, when compared against other state-of-the-art analysis methods, RECODE outperformed the competition by giving much truer representations of gene activation. Moreover, RECODE is simpler to use than other methods, without relying on parameters or using machine learning for the calculations to work.

Finally, the team tested RECODE on a complex dataset from mouse embryo cells containing many different types of cells with unique gene expression patterns. Whereas other methods blurred the results, RECODE clearly resolved gene expression levels, even for rare cell types.

Imoto says, "Single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis remains technically challenging and is a developing technique, but our RECODE algorithm is a step towards being able to reveal the true behaviors of single-cell structures. With our contribution, single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis could become a powerful research tool with massive implications across many biological fields."

Another leading author Tomonori Nakamura, a biologist from ASHBi and The Hakubi Center for Advanced Study, Kyoto University, adds, "By unlocking the true power of single-cell RNA sequencing, RECODE will enable researchers to discover unidentified rare cell types, leading to the development and establishment of the new research field in basic science as well as clinical application and drug discovery research."

The paper is published in Life Science Alliance, and RECODE calculation programs (Python/R code, desktop application) are available on GitHub (https://github.com/yusuke-imoto-lab/RECODE).

More information: Yusuke Imoto et al, Resolution of the curse of dimensionality in single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis, Life Science Alliance (2022). www.life-science-alliance.org/  tent/5/12/e202201591 Yusuke Imoto et al, Resolution of the curse of dimensionality in single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis,(2022). DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201591
Photo: Telus Telus office tower among new buildings planned for Victoria

Almost all new construction in Victoria  from single-family homes to office and residential towers  will be required to be zero carbon producers by 2025, meaning they cant be heated with fossil fuels such as natural gas, propane or fuel oil.



Citing concern about climate change and pollution, Victoria council has made the decision to accelerate the reduction of greenhouse gases in new buildings five years ahead of provincial requirements.



Victoria is among the first municipalities in the province to make the move for new construction, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy. For most projects, that will likely mean using electricity to power equipment for space heating, water heating, cooking and drying clothes.



The decision comes ahead of the provinces new building code and pollution guidelines, to be announced later this year.



Saanich and Central Saanich councils are considering a similar move. All three municipalities have had engagement processes with developers and builders. The Capital Regional District is supporting early adoptions of the plans.



Buildings account for nearly half of all greenhouse gas pollution generated in the city, Mayor Lisa Helps said in a statement Monday.



Each new building will last more than 50 years, so raising the bar now is critical to meeting our long-term climate goals, and to preparing the taxpayers of the future to have less climate-related costs down the road.



Laura Berndt, manager of energy and climate action for the City of Victoria, said the no-fossil-fuels requirement for new buildings is part of a plan to reduce greenhouse gases by 80 per cent and move to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2050.



She said the measure was one of four priority actions  along with mobility, waste reduction and municipal operations  to drive down emissions.



Victoria council declared a climate emergency in 2019.



The provinces carbon pollution standards are new regulations that are expected to be added to the provincial Step Code in December.



It will provide local governments with the ability to limit greenhouse emissions from new construction.



A city staff report said a series of discussions with the building and development industry yielded several concerns about electrifying new buildings, including the availability of appropriate equipment and expertise, cost increases, design challenges and having access to enough electricity.



Several cities in the U.S., including New York City, are adopting no-fossil-fuel rules for new buildings.



In addition to cost and supply issues for electricity, concerns have also been raised about restaurants in new buildings not being able to cook with natural gas, and people being blocked from making their own choices about the types of energy they want to buy.



Some states, including Texas, are seeking to ban any policies that limit use of natural gas.



Then there is the mixed message of banning natural gas in the capital city of a province which is attempting to become a major global producer and exporter of natural gas.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Higher education institutions in Nigeria need to train academics to spot fraudulent journals, researchers say.

The researchers, members of the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS), noted this in a communique released to the public on 21 July after convening a roundtable discussion on 29 March to discuss fighting predatory academic practices.

Oladoyin Odubanjo, the executive secretary of the NAS, tells SciDev.Net that key decision makers identified policies and activities that could be executed by higher education institutions to curb predatory journals and conferences in Nigeria.

Predatory journals are open access publications that exploit scholars and engage in suspicious editorial practices and fake journal indexing. The publishers are self-serving, with the sole aim of profiteering by posing as open access journals without the rigors of peer reviews.

The academy, in its communique, recommended the strengthening of libraries and librarians to identify predatory journals, the creation of a list of reputable journal publications and incentivizing publishing in highly rated journals.

"Nigerian higher education institutions should review their academic appraisal policies, with a view to shift the focus from quantity to quality," members of NAS advise in the communique.

"This would serve to reduce the intensity of the publish or perish syndrome."

In 2018, Cabells' Predatory Reportsa paid subscription that provides a database of predatory journalshad a list of 10,332 predatory journals worldwide in 2018. As of January 2022, that number increased to 15,574 journals, with about 150 journals added per month to that list in the past three years.

Nigeria is one of the largest contributors to predatory journals, according to a 2015 study published in BMC Medicine. This was attributed to tight demands for academics to publish and a lack of resources to publish in high profile journals.

"Predatory journals tend to be more commercial, less rigorous in their editorial demands, not paying attention to the integrity of their calling and generally undermining academic excellence," Michael Faborode, a professor of agricultural engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University, tells SciDev.Net.

"The greater problem is that they are very pervasive and growing in number and boldness, with some of them even being indexed and wrongly having high visibility and ranking scores."

According to Faborode, the tricks of predatory journal publishers include establishing journals with fake or ghost editorial systems and employing locals in different countries to facilitate payment in local currency.

He adds that predatory journals have little or no editorial review, and articles are published online within a few days of receipt.

Addressing the scourge

The Nigerian Academy of Science says that the proposed measures will assist the country in dealing with the problem of predatory journals.

It also recommends that policymakers, the country's university commission and the ministry of science, technology and innovation should support the development and promotion of local journals that meet international standards.

"Creating an enabling environment for quality research is central to the fight against predatory academic practices in Nigeria. Adequate funding, as well as the availability and accessibility of equipment for research will ensure that Nigerian researchers can conduct good research with outputs that are publishable in reputable journals," the NAS said.

Friday Okonofua, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology and founding editor of the African Journal of Reproductive Health, says institutional strategies could help prevent predatory publishing.

One strategy would be to review the universities' criteria for promotion to include quality publications rather than quantity, and using academic impact factorsthe frequency with which an average article is cited in a yearfor professorial promotions, Okonofua says. He adds that this is already being used by NAS and is being considered by the National Universities Commission.

Faborode says that special committees in educational institutions are also tackling publishing in predatory journals, adding: "With time, a list of predatory journals is being compiled and continually revised because the fraudsters, just like drug barons and gangsters, keep getting more aggressive in their exploits. Sometimes, keeping pace with them is a big challenge."

Explore further To help protect research, experts agree on a definition of predatory publishing

Provided by SciDev.Net
Agriculture is becoming increasingly dependent on technology. U.S. Department of Agriculture . Credit: Lance Cheung

Farmers are adopting precision agriculture, using data collected by GPS, satellite imagery, internet-connected sensors and other technologies to farm more efficiently. While these practices could help increase crop yields and reduce costs, the technology behind the practices is creating opportunities for extremists, terrorists and adversarial governments to attack farming machinery, with the aim of disrupting food production.

Food producers around the world have been under increasing pressure, a problem exacerbated by the war in Ukraine and rising fuel and fertilizer costs. Farmers are trying to produce more food but with fewer resources, pushing the food production system toward its breaking point.

In this environment, it's understandable that many U.S. farmers are turning to modern information technologies to support decision-making and operations in managing crop production. These precision agriculture practices lead to more efficient use of land, water, fuel, fertilizer and pesticides so that farmers can grow more, reduce costs and minimize their impact on the environment.

As researchers in cybersecurity and national security at the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center, we see cause for concern. The advent of precision farming comes at a time of significant upheaval in the global supply chain and as the number of foreign and domestic hackers with the ability to exploit this technology continues to grow.

New opportunities for exploitation

Cyberattacks against agricultural targets are not some far-off threat; they are already happening. For example, in 2021 a ransomware attack forced a fifth of the beef processing plants in the U.S. to shut down, with one company paying nearly $11 million to cybercriminals. REvil, a Russia-based group, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Precision agriculture can include sensors that monitor crops, such as these avocado plants. Credit: Simple loquat/Wikimedia

Similarly, a grain storage cooperative in Iowa was targeted by a Russian-speaking group called BlackMatter, who claimed that they had stolen data from the cooperative. While previous attacks have targeted larger companies and cooperatives and aimed to extort the victims for money, individual farms could be at risk, too.

The integration of technologies into farm equipment, from GPS-guided tractors to artificial intelligence, potentially increases the ability of hackers to attack this equipment. And though farmers might not be ideal targets for ransomware attacks, farms could be tempting targets for hackers with other motives, including terrorists.

For example, an attacker could look to exploit vulnerabilities within fertilizer application technologies, which could result in a farmer unwittingly applying too much or too little nitrogen fertilizer to a particular crop. A farmer could then end up with either a below-expected harvest, or a field that has been over fertilized, resulting in waste and long-term environmental ramifications.

Slow to appreciate the threat

Disruption to sensitive industries and infrastructure gives attackers higher returns for their efforts. This means that the increasing stress on the global food supply raises the stakes and creates a stronger motivation to disrupt the U.S. agriculture sector.

Unlike other critical industries such as finance and health care, the farming industry has been slow to recognize cybersecurity risks and take steps to mitigate them. There are several possible reasons for this sluggishness.

This grain storage facility is run by New Cooperative, a farm cooperative in Iowa that was hit by a ransomware attack in 2021. Jstuby/Wikimedia

One is that many farmers and agricultural providers haven't viewed cybersecurity as a significant enough problem compared with other risks they face such as floods, fires and hail. A 2018 Department of Homeland Security report that surveyed precision agriculture farmers throughout the U.S. found that many did not fully understand the cyberthreats introduced by precision agriculture, nor did they take these cyber-risks seriously enough.

This lack of preparedness leads to another reason: limited oversight and regulation from government. In 2010, the U.S. Department of Agriculture classified cybersecurity as a low priority. While this classification was upgraded in 2015, the farming sector is likely to be playing catch-up for years. While other critical infrastructure industries have developed and published numerous countermeasures and best practices for cybersecurity, the same cannot be said for the farming sector.

The Biden administration has indicated that it is willing to help farmers take steps to protect their cyber infrastructure, but as of this writing it has not released public guidelines to assist with this effort.

All-hands approach

In addition to the pressing need for policy guidance and resources from federal, state and local governments to prevent this type of cyberattack, there is room for academia and industry to step up.

From an academic research perspective, multidisciplinary efforts that bring together researchers from precision agriculture, robotics, cybersecurity and political science can help identify potential solutions. To this end, we and researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have launched the Security Testbed for Agricultural Vehicles and Environments.

Farming equipment manufacturers and other industry organizations can help by designing and engineering equipment to account for cybersecurity considerations. This would lead to the manufacture of farming equipment that not only maximizes food production yields but also minimizes exposure to cyberattacks.

Explore further Cyber attacks could jeopardize global food supplies

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
MARLISAT partner Pixalytics [LINK: https://www.pixalytics.com/ ] in the UK has meanwhile been developing a machine learning algorithm able to detect plastic accumulation along beaches and ocean hotspots from satellite images. Credit: Pixalytics

Every 60 seconds the equivalent of a truckload of plastic enters the global ocean. Where does it end up? Right now, researchers simply don't know. But in a bid to help find out, an ESA-led project developed floating transmitters whose passage can be tracked over time, helping in turn to guide a sophisticated software model of marine plastic litter accumulation.

In a hi-tech version of throwing out messages in bottles, prototype trackable buoys were deployed in the waters off Indonesia, whose myriad of islands results in some of the most complex, unpredictable currents on Earth.

Made from wood for maximum sustainability, the buoys were developed by French organization CLS, Collecte Localization Satellites. A subsidiary of French space agency CNES, CLS is best known for overseeing the satellite-based tracking of tagged marine animals, buoys and fishing fleets using its long-running Argos geopositioning system, which performs satellite navigation fixes and returns them to CLS via satellite link.

CLS made use of previous experience of marine plastic litter in Indonesia for the buoy deployments. It has previously teamed up with the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries to help guide waste collection effortsthe country's national marine pollution plan pledges to reduce plastic waste by 70% by the end of 2025.

Together with the tracking buoys, the MARLISAT project also involves harnessing Earth observation imagery to detect plastic sources and forecast marine plastic litter's motion and areas of accumulation using an existing CLS ocean drift model called MOBIDRIFT.

Together with the tracking buoys, the MARLISAT project also involves harnessing Earth observation imagery to detect plastic sources and forecast marine plastic litters motion and areas of accumulation using an existing CLS ocean drift model called MOBIDRIFT. Credit: CLS

Project partner Pixalytics in the UK has meanwhile been developing a machine learning algorithm able to detect plastic accumulation along beaches and ocean hotspots from satellite images.

"The strength of this project is the combination of satellite observations, in situ data and numerical modeling," comments Marc Lucas, Senior Oceanographer at CLS. "It is also great to have worked on a more sustainable type of Argos beacons, with wood used for the casing. As scientists, we have a duty to work towards a more sustainable approach to science."

The buoys were released in late May, and tracked in real-time via a dedicated portal. Equipped with batteries for an approximately 100 day lifetime, their results are helping to optimize the drift model's parameters.

The MARLISAT project is being supported through the Discovery element of ESA's Basic Activities. CLS got involved through applying to an open call for ideas on marine plastic litter through the Agency's Open Space Innovation Platform (OSIP), which sources promising new ideas for research from academia, industry and the general public.

This plastic-free WoodMark buoy was designed for the MARLISAT project. Just 11cm by 7 cm in size, the wooden transmitter-housing buoy has a drag reducing shape and is designed to be tethered to objects of interest, such as plastic waste. Credit: CLS

Monitoring this plastic can be very difficult from Earths surface, as it is impossible to see much of the ocean at once. But satellites with very high-resolution cameras and wide fields of view are changing our ability to monitor plastic waste, and ESA's Discovery & Preparation is supporting studies that investigate the best way of doing so. Credit: ESA - ScienceOffice.org

ESA antenna specialists also advised on the buoy design, notes Peter de Maagt, heading ESA's Antennas and Sub-Millimeter Waves section: "It is a privilege to work on projects that use space for the benefit of humankind and start addressing the problem of plastic waste in our oceans. The tag will provide valuable data to calibrate models and provide much needed ground truth."

MARLISAT is only one of a portfolio of marine plastic litter research projects initiated through OSIP and supported by ESA Discovery.

Explore further Video: Keeping an eye on ocean plastic pollution from space
Correction This story was updated on Aug. 9 to include that Thurman Highway Superintendent Pat Wood had sustained serious burn injuries. Also corrected: Debra Runyon is staying with a family member while Pat Wood is undergoing treatment for his burns.

THURMAN  Thurman Highway Superintendent Pat Wood suffered second-degree burns after his home on Mud Street caught fire.

Thurman Supervisor Debra Runyon, Wood's girlfriend, was also in the house at the time of the fire, which happened in the early morning hours of Saturday.

Runyon said the fire started on her porch.

She said she does not know what caused the fire, although it is still under investigation.

According to a GoFundMe page set up by Wood's daughter, Heather Wood, the pair woke up at 2 in the morning to the sound of their dogs barking.

They escaped through the window, although the superintendent sustained second-degree burns on 54% of his body.

He is currently at the Westchester Burn Center, according to Heather Wood.

Runyon said that she is currently staying at a family member's home.

This is the second fire to occur over the weekend in that part of Warren County.

The Warren County Sheriffs Office responded to a structure fire at 138 Harrisburg Road in Stony Creek on Sunday at 11:47 a.m.

According to a Warren County Sheriffs Office press release, multiple fire departments from the area responded the scene and extinguished the fire by 2:15 p.m.

The homeowners were not in the residence at the time of the fire, but the house sustained substantial damage, police said.

The case is still under investigation by the Sheriffs Office with assistance from various fire and EMS agencies.

Volunteers from the Northeastern New York Chapter of the American Red Cross provided immediate emergency aid to five people after the Stony Creek fire. The Red Cross provided financial assistance for necessities such as shelter, food and clothing to two adults and three children, ages 7, 8, and 10.

Volunteers also offered emotional support, health services, comfort kits containing personal care items, and stuffed animals for the children.
About three-quarters of the way through a recent Matt Castelli campaign town hall forum at the Otsego County Fair, a man in the audience spoke up and said, I just wanted you to emphasize that you do have a primary.

Castelli, one of two candidates in the Aug. 23 Democratic primary in the 21st Congressional District, responded, concisely, There is a primary with one other candidate running in this race  a very nice fellow. But we believe we have the strongest chance to defeat Congresswoman Stefanik.

Castelli, a former CIA counterterrorism official from Glens Falls, and Matt Putorti, lawyer from Whitehall, are competing in the Aug. 23 primary for the Democratic nomination to challenge U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-Schuylerville.

Early voting begins Saturday.

Castelli and Putorti both recently began airing campaign television ads focused on criticism of Stefanik.

Neither candidates ad mentions the Aug. 23 primary or mentions his primary opponent.

This is in sharp contrast to the House Democratic primary in Vermont, where candidates have been running a multitude of ads focused specifically on getting out the vote in this weeks state primary on Tuesday.

It is somewhat common for a political candidate not to mention an opponent by name, but it appears that Castelli and Putorti, at least in their public comments and advertising, have already moved on to the general election.

It is somewhat audacious, said Matthew Dickinson, a political science professor at Middlebury College in Vermont. They seem to be taking the nomination for granted, or wanting people to think they are taking the nomination for granted.

Dickinson said the strategy seems to make more sense for Castelli, who is already on the general election ballot and based on my reading of the tea leaves has a greater chance of winning the Aug. 23 primary than Putorti.

The difference between the 21st District primary and the Vermont Democratic primary is that in Vermont, the winner of the Democratic primary is almost certain to win the general election.

So, theres a different dynamic here (in Vermont), he said.

Hank Sheinkopf, a Democratic political strategist in New York City, said that Castelli and Putorti apparently recognize the importance of going into the general election with a strong offense against Stefanik.

Concentrating on her is actually a good campaign strategy, he said. Not ripping each other apart makes it easier to run against her in the fall.

Sheinkopf said Stefanik is a very strong candidate, but has some vulnerabilities in her support for Donald Trump and controversy over the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Even up there, people are tired of all he chaos, he said.

The strategy somewhat makes sense, but could backfire if it diminishes primary turnout, said Patrick Nelson of Stillwater, who was a Democratic primary candidate in the 2018 21st Congressional District race, and has since managed several state legislative campaigns and worked on Bernie Sanders 2020 New Hampshire presidential primary field staff.

National political donors use the margin of victory in a primary as a gauge of which general election races to contribute to, he explained.

To not give the date of the primary, I would say, is going a little too far with that strategy, he said. It seems like an attempt to play four-dimensional chess, when politics is checkers.

In the 2018 primary, too, candidates agreed to focus much of their criticism on Stefanik, Nelson said.

Were all on the same team, were just trying to find out who will be the team captain, was the strategy, he said.

Former Rep. John Faso, R-Kinderhook, questioned the logic of the strategy.

Elise Stefanik is in a very strong position to be re-elected and every national analyst has rated this seat as Safe Republican, Faso said. It is an odd strategy for a challenger to not focus on the race immediately in front of them  namely the Aug. 23 primary.
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Sometimes life deals us a needed reality check.

We get wrapped up in our aches and pains, our home chores, work drama and minor family stuff that in the long run is pretty meaningless.

We all do it.

We all think of ourselves first a lot of the time.

Then we get smacked in the head with the reality of others  and we feel silly.

Its 8:32 a.m. Sunday as I start this and I just returned from Hudson Falls where balloon pilot Dave Kramer and his Windrifter Ballooning staff donated their time and balloon leading a group of friends and family volunteers to make a bucket list item of a 27-year-old West Virginia woman come true  kind of.

The woman, Vanessa Bishop, has family rooted in the Kingsbury area and has been battling brain cancer since she was 20.

After fighting it off with multiple surgeries and treatment  all while attending and graduating from West Virginia University  she has another major battle ahead, and not long ago told her Uncle Bob of a couple things shed really like to do: ride in a balloon and in a helicopter.

As I type this, shes riding back home to West Virginia having done both  kind of.

It was windy, so the balloon was tethered.

But she flew.

Sunday in the balloon.

Saturday in a helicopter.

Uncle Bob is actually her second cousin and my longtime friend Bob Bishop, who lined up the flights and then stressed for days about the weather possibly ruining it all. The balloon launch was twice delayed and then relegated to the tether, but the helicopter ride over the Lake George region, donated by local pilot Bob Kellogg, went off without a hitch.

Vanessa excitedly raved about it at a picnic following the ride, marveling about the beauty from above.

While in town, she also went boating on Lake George with fellow friend Steve Connell and saw the fireworks from the water, feet from the launching platform.

She also proudly shared video she captured of my new Spanish son-in-law getting up on a wakeboard for the first time on Hadlock Pond. It was his eighth try and the boat erupted at his success and her video handiwork captured his moment.

She danced too  sometimes while sitting in her wheelchair, sometimes standing up and even twerking  every time friend Barb Rodriguez hit her 30-second dance party button that erupted in dance tunes (picture the Staples reset button but with music!)

She drank spiked seltzers, fired off one-liners at any opportunity and really seemed to be soaking up her time here with her mom, Vicki.

But now back to my point.

I cant say I really know Vanessa because I only met her this weekend. But I know Bob well, and he has chatted about her for years, so I know her story. Or the abridged version.

I know that the disease has taken so much from her.

Shes relegated to a wheelchair.

She had to claw her way back from surgeries that left her needing to learn to talk and walk.

Her voice, a voice that won her a local singing competition in West Virginia, was altered to make that no longer possible, too.

I also know shes about the same age as my oldest daughter, who I get to go see sing and play guitar in a few hours at a Hyde Collection museum event. My head is filled with perspective.

So a lot has changed for Vanessa during this insane battle with cancer, but Bob tells me what hasnt changed is her smile and spirit, and that was evident this weekend. Shes dealing with weight most of us cant imagine, and smiling through it all.

And theres my point.

Reality check.

I was bummed that the balloon stayed tethered Sunday. Having flown in balloons before, I wanted her to feel that weightless, silent flight and see animals scurrying from Washington County hedgerows below.

But she didnt stop smiling her entire 15 minutes in the basket  at times hovering only inches above the ground, mom by her side, weightless and floating.

I hope that weightlessness can carry over to the upcoming battle and I hope plans for another try on the next visit  untethered  can happen soon.

With the balloon packed away, the champagne toast was commencing when one of the balloon staff asked if anyone wanted a non-alcoholic alternative.

I cant remember Vanessas exact words, but they were something like: why would you?

And I know I heard her joke that shed happily take the ones poured out already if anyone did opt for the alternative.

And she smiled at her own joke.

Learn from her.

I sure did.
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Applications for the 2023 arts and history grants funded by the state are now available on the website of the Atlantic County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs.

There will be two grant workshops in the coming weeks to help people prepare and improve their proposals, according to a county news release issued Monday.

The first workshop, to be held on Aug. 31, will focus on art applications. The second, on Sept. 7, will focus on history applications. There is some overlap between the two workshops, so potential applicants are encouraged to attend one even if they cannot attend the workshop specific to their interest.

The two workshops will each be held at the Atlantic County Library on Farragut Avenue in Mays Landing at 6 p.m.

Attendees must register in advance and can do so at the www.atlantic-county.org/cultural-affairs web page. Applications can be found on the same page.

The New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the New Jersey Historical Commission are providing funding for the grants. In 2022, the county Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs awarded over $218,000 to local, non-profit applicants for art and history projects that provided public benefit and increased accessibility.

Those looking for additional information can contact Kim Brown at kbrown@aclsys.org or (609) 909-7309.

An application form available on the website says that applications must be delivered to Brown, the county Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs administrator. The deadline to submit a grant application is Oct. 14.

Contact Chris Doyle
ATLANTIC CITY  Casino dealers opposed to smoking indoors are rejecting an idea being floated among state legislators to create designated outdoor smoking areas that employees could opt out of staffing.

Pete Naccarelli, a dealer at Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and a leader of a group of Atlantic City casino workers pushing for a full indoor smoking ban, said Tuesday the opt-out suggestion is not the solution to protecting workers and customers.

The so-called opt-out idea only forces workers to risk their health for a paycheck, he said. It is not a solution at all.

A casino worker living paycheck to paycheck should not have to risk their health by working in a smoking area just to get by, he said. But thats exactly what would happen, and the most vulnerable workers would suffer most. Legislators should recognize the problematic scenario this would create and reject this half-baked idea.

Last week dealers said creating true outdoor smoking areas could be a workable solution as long as no worker is exposed to secondhand smoke.

Could outdoor gambling satisfy smokers and casino workers? ATLANTIC CITY  Could outdoor gambling be at least a partial solution to an impasse between 

But having any casino workers assigned to those areas  or even having to pass through them on their way to other places in the casino  is not acceptable to them.

A bill that would ban smoking inside Atlantic Citys nine casinos has sat untouched in the Democrat-controlled state Legislature since February. An identical bill died in last years session, even though Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy has said he will sign it if it passes.

As of Tuesday, no legislative committee hearings had been scheduled for the bill, to which half the state Legislature has signed on as sponsors or co-sponsors.

The bill would close a loophole in New Jerseys indoor smoking law that makes casinos virtually the only indoor workplaces in the state where smoking continues to be allowed.

The Casino Association of New Jersey, the trade association for Atlantic Citys casinos, opposes a smoking ban, fearing it would lead to job and revenue losses. Smoking opponents reject those assertions, pointing to places in other states where non-smoking casinos are outperforming competitors that allow it.
China urges support for Africa to enhance capacities

Xinhua) 08:27, August 09, 2022

Zhang Jun (C), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks at a Security Council open debate convened by China on the theme "Peace and security in Africa: capacity-building for sustaining peace" at the UN headquarters in New York, Aug. 8, 2022. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations and president of the UN Security Council for August, on Monday called on the international community to support Africa in enhancing capacities to secure durable peace in a comprehensive approach.

"The Security Council needs to do some deep thinking in helping Africa achieve lasting peace," Zhang told a Security Council open debate convened by China on the theme "Peace and security in Africa: capacity-building for sustaining peace."

Considering China's own development experience, experience from China-Africa cooperation, and the historical lessons from all over the world, China believes that to help Africa achieve long-term stability, it is imperative to make sustained and increased investments, have long-term thinking, and build a strong foundation for Africa to strengthen its own development capacity and improve its resilience to external shocks, he said.

"In this regard, capacity building is the most crucial part," Zhang noted.

The envoy urged support for African countries in strengthening governance capacity. "To enhance government capacity, we need to maintain the right direction and respect the independently chosen development pathway and social system by their peoples."

There should be no political conditions attached to aid, nor should there be interference in internal affairs of African countries, or to replace the role of local governments, he said.

For post-conflict countries, Zhang emphasized the need to support the newly established governments in exercising state authority, instead of endless criticism and fault-finding, let alone attempt of "democratic transformation" and arbitrary use of sanctions for exerting pressure.

It is important to support African countries in improving security sectors' capacity to perform their duties. Heeding the complaints of African countries, it is necessary to conduct comprehensive reviews of some of the peacekeeping operations deployed by UN in Africa, and reform practices that do not fit the situation on the ground, he said.

Arms embargoes imposed by the Security Council on countries such as Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have a negative impact on capacity building of security sectors in these countries, and need to be adjusted and lifted in time. The funding of the African Union-led peace operations has been a persistent difficulty, which calls for a solution, he said.

Zhang underscored the need to support African countries in improving their sustainable development capacities.

At present, the African continent is beset with economic, financial, food, energy and other challenges. These are related to a turbulent international situation, but the underlying cause is the unjust and unfair international economic order.

African countries have expressed strong wishes for the unfair treatment to end, and the international community has the obligation to support them by helping Africa industrialize, accelerate infrastructure modernization, achieve financial autonomy, and increase economic independence, he said.

"Developed countries should honor their commitments on climate financing as soon as possible, and make up for what they owed to Africa in history," he stressed.

Zhang also called for efforts to support African countries in building a bigger talent pool. "The international community should help African countries train more talents based on the urgent needs in reconstruction and social and economic development. There is a particular need to encourage countries affected by conflict to enhance policy support and resource input for youth and children, and expand special assistance in development and education."

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Re. Interior Health and its policy of not allowing Canadians who did not (receive a COVID-19 vaccination) the right to visit patients in Kelowna General Hospital.

Interior Healths vision is Health and well being for all.

After a recent abdominal surgery, I had the displeasure of spending three nights in KGH. I am an old-age pensioner and caregiver for my 90-year-old mother. We both chose not to have the (vaccine) for personal reasons.

I was placed in a room with four beds and the other three patients had visitors constantly coming and going, but my family members were not allowed to visit. Covid 19 vaccination has been proven not to protect against getting Covid or giving it to other people. So why was I subjected to being infected?

On the Saturday morning, a nurse came to complain my son was causing a disturbance at the entrance, as they would not let him visit. I got out of bed and made my way to the main building. As I went out of the hospital, I collapsed sobbing into the arms of my son who was also crying.

We had to visit in the 30 C heat on a bench near the street. It was a short visit due to the pain I was in and the heat, but it was great to get hugs and a bar of soap and headphones.

I managed to get back to my room and text my son that I made it and after calling for pain medication, I spent the rest of the afternoon sleeping.

This is just so wrong to discriminate and deny people human contact. I can relate to all the elderly people who were locked away in care homes with no one allowed to visit.

I think Interior Health should be more concerned with the staffing shortages, the dirty floors and piled up soiled linen bags in the hallways, not to mention the disgusting cheap stuff they pass off as food. No wonder I heard doctors advising patients to have food brought in.

I do commend the nursing staff, who were obviously under massive pressure due to staffing shortages, and I found that under the circumstances, they were doing the best they could. Only 35% of staff were on shift.

Maybe the upper management should get on the frontline and see what is really going on.

This is July, what is going to happen this winter. I dread to think.

Annette Kulcheski, Lake Country

(Editor's note: Being vaccinated significantly reduces the chance of testing positive for COVID-19, as well as reducing the adverse effects of the virus if infected, according to the Centres For Disease Control.)
WILDWOOD  The next phase of a long-term plan to repair Wildwoods iconic Boardwalk is set to begin in October, running from Maple Avenue to 26th Avenue.

Mayor Pete Byron said city staff and officials met Aug. 2 to discuss the plans, with bids on a contract expected to be in by the end of the month. He expects the city Board of Commissioners to hold a special meeting Aug. 30 to award a contract.

The total cost wont be known until the bids are opened, but Byron estimates it to be a little under $8 million, with most of that covered through grants.

Gov. Phil Murphys administration has committed $4 million for the work this year, the same amount the state kicked in for the reconstruction project completed last year. In the spring, the U.S. Economic Development Administration announced a $3.2 million grant, to be matched by $845,000 in local money.

That grant was funded through the American Rescue Plan.

This will be the biggest section, hence the biggest cost, Byron said.

He expects the work to continue over the course of eight phases, and hopes to continue to bring in grants from state and federal sources to help cover the long-term costs.

Were hoping the governor continues to come through with $4 million a year, Byron said.

On July 4, 2021, Murphy came to Wildwood to tour the Boardwalk and announced the first $4 million in state funding. That funded the replacement of the Boardwalk from Oak Avenue to Maple Avenue last winter, with the finishing touches coming in the spring.

The work will also include new railings, repairs to the substructure that supports the Boardwalk.

Its soup to nuts, Byron said.

For the first phase, the plan was to use a tropical hardwood called cumaru, which is also known as Brazilian teak. But the previous shipment did not arrive in time for that project  Byron described it as being stuck on a boat from Brazil  resulting in the decking being completed with the same treated pine as most of the Boardwalk.

Now we have about 75% of the wood that we need, Byron said.

Online resources indicate that cumaru is not listed as threatened or endangered.

The use of another species of tropical hardwood, ipe, proved extremely controversial in Cape May County communities in the 1990s and early 2000s. That wood has been used in Atlantic City and Walt Disney World, as well as sections of boardwalks in Ocean City and Wildwood. Proponents point to its extreme longevity compared to pine, but critics argued that logging it endangered the rainforest.

The cumaru, from what I understand, is politically correct, Byron said. He said he did not hear from any activists when the wood was considered last year.

Some organizations do oppose the use of cumaru, which is reportedly often logged illegally. The trees can live hundreds of years, towering over the canopy, and are an increasingly popular option for decking.

Georgina Shanley, a former Ocean City resident who now lives in Red Bank, helped organize opposition to hardwood use in Cape May County communities during earlier projects. Reached on Wednesday, she said any use of tropical wood harms the rainforest and contributes to climate change.

Its just completely irresponsible, she said.

Byron is a rarity in Cape May County, a mayor who is a registered Democrat, although Wildwoods government is non-partisan. Most officials in the county are Republican, including the county leadership, the Legislators and U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew.

In announcing the grant in April, the federal Department of Commerce quoted high-profile Democrats, including U.S. Sens. Bob Menendez and Cory Booker, and Murphy, and name-checked President Joe Biden.

President Biden is committed to harnessing the full power of the federal government to ensure our nation not only recovers from this pandemic but builds a better America in the process, said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo in a prepared statement. This EDA investment will increase local tourism as an economic driver for pandemic response and recovery efforts.

Murphy also cited tourism, and the creation of local jobs, a point also made by Booker and Menendez.

This latest investment will help improve the existing infrastructure at the iconic Boardwalk in Wildwood, creating jobs while also improving the quality of life for residents and tourists, Booker said.

Byron recently described the Boardwalk in his community as a major driver of tourism both in the city and in Cape May County, adding that shore tourism in Cape May County is a major portion of the states overall tourism economy, with county visits worth more than $6 billion.

Plans call for the next phase of the work to be completed in early May of 2023. A third phase is planned to include the blocks from Shellenger Avenue to Spencer Avenue, expected to take place after the summer of 23.

Contact Bill Barlow:

609-272-7290

Twitter @jerseynews_bill
U.S. Sen. Cory Booker seemed fascinated by details of Black history in Cape May, from family stories to the Underground Railroad, as he visited the Harriet Tubman Museum on Monday.

The museum had its grand opening last year on June 19, also known as Juneteenth, celebrating history on a local and national level. Booker arrived in Cape May on Monday as part of what he is calling his summer road trip, visiting areas throughout the state.

Later in the afternoon, Booker also visited Atlantic City, meeting participants in the Boys and Girls Club.

In Cape May, Booker recorded significant portions of his visit on his phone, while staff also captured the discussions from other angles.

Local officials said they were not sure if Booker, a Democrat, would be able to make it after his party pushed through the legislation Sunday investing $370 billion in climate initiatives and allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices.

While local officials talked about that, and Cape May Mayor Zack Mullock praised Booker over a promise of a federal investment in Cape Mays drinking water system, Booker did more listening to museum representatives who spoke about the project that took a near-collapsing former parsonage and created a museum, and about the history it contains.

Hampton Taylor, a trustee on the museum board and deacon of the Macedonia Baptist Church, spoke about the renovation project and the museum collection.

Cynthia Mullock, the museum executive director and the sister of the mayor and Dr. Stephanie James Harris, an adjunct professor of African American History, spoke of Cape Mays place in the Underground Railroad and in the Abolitionist movement.

Booker said the history showed Black and white people working together against slavery, despite the risk at that time.

He also met with student participants of the Friday is Tie Day program, who worked on creating virtual tours of the museum, and heard from Emily Dempsey, whose family has lived in Cape May for generations.

She told the senator that there is now increasing interest in the areas Black history, a history she said had at one point almost been forgotten. Booker said he was thrilled to connect with both young people and community elders on the visit.

Harriet Tubman is a personal hero of mine and was a harbinger of hope for many, Booker said after the visit. Even after securing her own freedom, Tubman led hundreds of other people held as slaves out of bondage, a testament to her unfathomable courage and righteous calling.

He said he was proud to see her life memorialized in the museum.

Senator Booker has been an important supporter of the Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey since its inception, Cynthia Mullock said, crediting Booker with advocating for issues of social justice.

After Cape May, Booker headed north to visit the Boys & Girls Club on Pennsylvania Avenue in Atlantic City, meeting with Mayor Marty Small Sr. for a tour.

He was first taken to the buildings STEAM Lab, learning about how the clubs introduces city kids to science and technology industries. The senator had a chance to experiment with the gear the kids handle.

Im blown away, Booker said.

He made his way through the building, stopping at different spots before sitting down in the lounge with 20 kids. He took multiple photos with the kids.

An energetic Booker spoke to them about how he went from being a lawyer to becoming the fourth Black U.S. senator in history, the first since former President Barack Obama represented Illinois.

Booker fielded questions from the kids, telling them to continue working hard throughout their lives while they pursue careers while reflecting on his own obstacles to public office.

A failure is not final unless you give up, Booker said.

Staff Writer Eric Conklin contributed to this report.
WILDWOOD CREST  Paul and Alethea Pawloski arent kidding when they describe the side-by-side motels their respective families have run for decades in the Crest as family resorts.

From two motels  the Stefanide/Roy clan running things at the V.I.P. (Visitors in Paradise), the Pawlowskis in charge at the Compass  they created a new family.

For proof, theres Juliana, the baby, born just days after Labor Day 2021, whos now got the run of both places, their own Eloise in a Jersey Shore motel, living atop the Compass office, a daughter they call Little Miss 6500, as in the 6500 block of Atlantic Avenue, where both motels sit.

Shes heir to both thrones: queen of the concrete safari animals over at the Compass; captain of the wooden pirate ship over at the V.I.P.

Even the families that return every summer to the concrete and steel midcentury havens a block from the beach are beaming.

That baby is absolutely beautiful, says Luann Rogers, whose family fills eight rooms at the V.I.P. and has every summer since 1981. And heres Alethea  three generations running the same motel. I remember seeing her growing up, and her brother.

Next phase of Wildwood Boardwalk repair project planned WILDWOOD  The next phase of a long-term plan to repair Wildwoods iconic Boardwalk is set t

In fact, Alethea, 34, is the fourth generation of the same family at the V.I.P., and Juliana will be the fifth. Aletheas great-grandmother, Katherine Hammond Stefanide, and grandparents built the motel in 1964, opening in 1965. Back then it was beachfront, before an entire block, Ocean Avenue, was filled in and developed.

The families that run Jersey Shore motels are a tight-knit community, running on three months of shared adrenaline and crises, close with one another and close to their longtime guests.

There are no secrets, says Paul, 36. Everybody has a website. We are the furthest thing from competitors. If we hear Imperial 500 is having an issue, well go and give them a hand. Well share maids even if thats what it takes to help out.

Alethea added: Pillowcases.

A case of towels, says Paul. Well exchange with one another.

Typically, the back-of-the-house kids spend their summers playing with the children of guests who rotate in.

North Wildwood, Atlantic City shine a light on National Lighthouse Day NORTH WILDWOOD  It was a chance to shine a light on South Jersey history.

Over at the V.I.P., they placed a plaque this year in Room 206 in memory of Helen Dunn, who stayed there for all but a few of the 57 years the motel has been open, said Melissa Roy, Aletheas mom.

I always said my summer started when I heard Mrs. Dunns voice, Roy recalled.

Its that kind of place.

Alethea says she would write to her summer friends over the offseason and check the calendar of bookings to see which friends were expected next. Shed be working, too, cleaning rooms as a teenager to save up to get wristbands to go to Moreys Piers.

But it was Paul Pawlowski, who arrived as a teenager with his family at the height of the 2000 season when the Pawlowskis unexpectedly bought the Compass next door, who caught Aletheas eye once and for all.

The spark was kindled in the offseason. Theyd known each other casually, Aletheas brother playing poker with Paul and his brother over at the V.I.P. office, Alethea coming in the next morning to find the beer cans as evidence.

Tickets for 2023's Barefoot Country Music Festival in Wildwood go on sale WILDWOOD  Country music fans can get a jump on their summer concert plans as Early Bird tic

They were all friends as teenagers. In the offseason, the Pawlowskis returned to their home in North Jersey, while Alethea stayed in Cape May County.

In December 2007, Aletheas nana, Joanne Stefanide, died at age 71, after a tree in her backyard fell on her. Originally from Pennsylvania Dutch country, shed been the heart and soul of the V.I.P., marrying into the Stefanide family and running the place with her daughter, Melissa, and later her granddaughter, Alethea.

During that time of grieving, I thought of Paul, Alethea said. I dont know why. I reached out to him.

His family, it turned out, had also suffered a loss, his uncle.

Their first date was at the Menz Restaurant in Rio Grande.

Their second was the traveling bodies exhibit in Atlantic City. Before long, they had scratched their names in the concrete in front of the motels: Paul + Alethea.

We were very cautious, Alethea said. We didnt want to get too emotionally involved and have something end badly.

Turns out, the familiarity of the families had prepared them all for their love story, waiting like a freshly cleaned room with southern exposure (at the V.I.P) or one that gets the afternoon shade (the Compass, facing north).

I always had a feeling it was going to happen one day, said Irene Pawlowski, Pauls mom, and one of Julianas many motel babysitters. Theyre so happy together.

Over on the pool deck at the V.I.P., which with just two stories and 30 rooms is already 80% booked for next year, the Rogers family is figuring out dinner. As usual, they will cook at one of the grills near the pool.

They cant say enough about the place, about Alethea, whom they watched grow up, and 10-month-old Juliana.

The Rogers family has seen its own milestones at the V.I.P., including one grandchild who took her first steps in one of the rooms.

Wildwood Crest police chief: Look before entering crosswalks WILDWOOD CREST  Its been more than a decade since New Jersey strengthened a law allowing p

They are lovely places to create a family, or to nurture one, so many memories baked into every square foot, family at the heart. As so many motels become condos, these families at the heart of Wildwood Crest summers are moving on.

But not at the V.I.P and Compass.

Emerging halfway out of the pool pit, doing repairs, is Aletheas dad, Roland Roy, a former Wildwood detective who married into the Stefanide family.

My son grew up playing with their son, which was nice, said Roy. Alethea and Paul are a good team.

He thinks Juliana will grow up to be the fifth generation at the V.I.P., a place anchored by its strong matriarchal line.

He also thinks there is logic in combining the properties eventually, though for now Alethea is running things with her mom over at the V.I.P., and Paul and his brother oversee the Compass.

My suggestion there would be to knock down both places and build a mega resort, he said.

Roy grew up in Wildwood and remembers the neon lights when his dad would bring him downtown. He met Aletheas mom when she worked at City Hall. True love is never too far away for these locals.

The shared values of running the summer motels, the hard work, the loyalty, devotion to guests, to cleanliness, and to good humor above all, is as good a foundation as any for a marriage, he said.

The values are the same, he said. Absolutely.

Sometime soon, Paul, Alethea and Juliana will be making the big move from above the Compass to brand-new residence quarters over at the V.I.P., said Aletheas mom, Melissa. And she and Roland will also be moving onto the island to live full time at the V.I.P.

Like the sign says, a family motel.
Our guest today is Warren Madden, who leads the Air Force's Chief Aerial Recon Coordination of All Hurricanes (aka CAR-CAH) at NOAA's National Hurricane Center in Miami.

Warren was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Air Force in 1985, worked on the air as a meteorologist in Dayton, Ohio, in the 1990s, and joined the Hurricane Hunters of the Air Force Reserve's 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron in 1998.

Before retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2012, he flew into some of the most historic hurricanes on record: Floyd, Ivan, Rita and Wilma.

In this first episode of a two-part series, Warren provides background on how he got interested into weather and meteorology, and explains how aircraft can be used during hurricane season.

Previewing the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season | Across the Sky podcast  The Across the Sky podcast discusses the 2022 hurricane season with a guest from the National Weather Service.

About the Across the Sky podcast

The weekly weather podcast is hosted on a rotation by the Lee Weather team:

Matt Holiner of Lee Enterprises' Midwest group in Chicago, Kirsten Lang of the Tulsa World in Oklahoma, Joe Martucci of the Press of Atlantic City, N.J., and Sean Sublette of the Richmond Times-Dispatch in Virginia.
TRENTON  The state Senate unanimously approved William E. Reynolds, of Absecon, as Atlantic County Prosecutor at a special session Monday.

So many different people of both parties came up to say, You sounded really good. Im happy for you, Reynolds said as he drove home after the vote. It was really humbling.

He credited state Sen. Vince Polistina, R-Atlantic, with advocating for his appointment.

The senator did a really good job negotiating and letting the governors office know what was important to him and the people of Atlantic County, Reynolds said.

Earlier in the day the senate Judiciary Committee had also moved Reynolds nomination.

Bill is kind, humble and cares about people, said Sen. Joseph Lagana, D-Bergen, Passaic, at the Judiciary hearing. Lagana has known Reynolds for years and worked with him in his role as state arbitrator.

He exhibits all the qualities a person should have, Lagana said.

In his nine weeks as acting prosecutor, Reynolds has made a definite mark, working with Atlantic City officials to start a special program to get repeat shoplifters and other criminals off the street and either into substance abuse or mental health treatment or jail.

Everyone said, Tread lightly. Youre acting. You could ruin your nomination, Reynolds said of advice on how to approach the job before the final vote.

But that isnt his way, he said.

Im going to be myself, thats what got me here, Reynolds said. Im always open to good ideas. I dont have to be the originator. Im always willing to help and that is going to continue.

A former municipal prosecutor, he brought his twin 12-year-old sons with him to Trenton on Monday, as well as other family members.

He replaces former Acting Prosecutor Cary Shill, who has been in the job since former Prosecutor Damon Tyner resigned last year under pressure from lawsuits and ethics charges.

Reynolds nomination drew no questions from the senators in the Judiciary hearing, unlike the nomination just prior of Acting Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin, of Montclair, as state Attorney General.

That nomination was affirmed by the committee after four hours of questions of the nominee, and testimony from pro-life and Christian groups opposing the nomination.

A full Senate vote on Platkins nomination is expected in the fall.

Groups opposing it, such as New Jersey Right to Life, said it was because of his support for legal abortion and concerns about his stance on parental rights regarding what children in kindergarten to third grades are taught about gender issues.

Sens. Anthony Bucco, R-Morris, Somerset, and Michael J. Doherty, R-Hunterdon, Somerset, Warren, voted against Platkins nomination in committee.

They said they felt his advice to Gov. Phil Murphy in the early days of the COVID-19 epidemic, when Platkin was the governors chief counsel, resulted in Murphy overstepping his office and leaving the legislature out of key decisions on business closings and more.

They also stressed Platkins role in the handling of the Katie Brennan sexual abuse case as reason he should not be approved.

Brennan, a campaign volunteer and state worker, accused another campaign worker and state employee of sexual assault, and said Platkin and the governors staff tried to ignore her allegations.

In 2019, then state Senate President Steve Sweeney called for Platkin to resign over that case, and a report from a legislative investigation found poor legal advice led to the mishandling.

Brennan settled a lawsuit against the state and Murphys campaign for $1 million in 2020, and took a job with the administration of former Mayor Bill de Blasio in New York City.

The committee and full Senate also approved nominations of Jeffrey Wilson, of Atlantic City and Frank C. Testa, of Princeton, as Superior Court judges.

Frank Testa thanked his cousin, state Sen. Michael Testa, R-Cape May, Cumberland, Atlantic, for his help.

This means a lot to our family, Sen. Michael Testa said after the Senate vote.
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to take the country by storm, states are taking measures to ensure that charging stations are widely accessible.

The Illinois State Fair and Gov. JB Pritzker announced that an EV charging station will be available at the fair, courtesy of a sponsorship with Sunrun. The EV charger allows for two EVs to charge at the same time, and it will be located near the Gate 7 entrance in Lot 21 along 8th Street near Conservation World, according to the state of Illinois.

As the leading provider of home solar, battery storage and now electric vehicle charging solutions, Sunrun is proud to partner with the Illinois State Fair and are excited to continue working with the Governor to realize Illinoiss clean energy vision, said Sunrun CEO Mary Powell.

Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark expressed a similar sentiment.

Sunruns partnership allows us to provide this service and lets fairgoers enjoy all the Illinois State Fair has to offer while safely charging their EVs on site, said Clark. Its another showcase for the future while offering an opportunity to enjoy the present.

Pritzker said that the state of Illinois is committed to clean energy. This is paralleled by the states efforts to implement charging stations along I-80.

As the second largest interstate highway in the U.S., I-80 is a designated corridor of the Federal Highway Administration Alternative Fuels Corridor (AFC) initiative. When upgrades to the interstate are complete, EV charging stations will be available at least every 50 miles and compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling will be available at least every 150 miles.

Alternative fuels play an important role in Illinoiss economic and environmental success. Alternative fuel corridors improve air quality, especially to communities living closest to highways, said John Walton, chair of Chicago Area Clean Cities Coalition. Significant opportunities exist to fill remaining gaps in alternative fueling across all highways. In addition to the health-related benefits, and energy security, the installation of new fueling infrastructure supports jobs throughout the state.

The Illinois Department of Transportation, Chicago Area Clean Cities Coalition, the Bi-State Regional Commission and others are hosting a convening session on Aug. 16 from 9 a.m. to 12 p..m. at Western Illinois University. This session is for citizens of Illinois and Iowa who want to know more about the project. Space is limited, so those interested should register at this link.
CHICAGO  A Valparaiso man accused of sideswiping 17 parked cars while driving a party bus Saturday in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood has been charged, police said.

Gregory J. Baldwin, 45, is accused of striking the parked vehicles about 3 p.m. Saturday in the 3500 block of Broadway, Chicago police said.

He continued driving the party bus and was arrested near Lake Shore Drive, NBC 5 Chicago reported.

Baldwin was charged with felony damage to property and misdemeanor counts of reckless driving and leaving the scene of an accident. He also was cited for failing to reduce speed and disregarding a traffic signal, police said.

Chicago police said they initially responded to a report of a reckless driver.

Porter Superior Court records show Baldwin was sentenced in May 2013 after pleading guilty to felony dealing in a narcotic drug.

He was arrested in September 2018 after leading a Porter County sheriff's police officer on a pursuit in a maroon 1993 Chevrolet Camaro, according to court records.

The officer attempted to stop Baldwin on Ind. 130 for spinning his tires and following another vehicle too closely. When the officer activated his emergency lights, siren and spotlight, Baldwin sped off and "swerved all over the roadway and uphill while traveling well over 100 mph."

The pursuit ended when Baldwin crashed his Camaro, records state.

Baldwin pleaded guilty in February 2019 to felony resisting law enforcement and admitted he violated his probation in his 2013 drug case. He received a three-year sentence, documents show.
A Davenport man awaits sentencing in September after being found guilty at trial of the March killing of a 16-year-old boy.

Scott County authorities charged Malachi Vanderpool, 19, with first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm after the March 18 death of Tylan Sanders of Davenport.

At the end of Vanderpool's late-July trial, a jury found him guilty of second-degree murder and the felon in possession charge, according to court records. His sentencing is set for Sept. 21.

The day Sanders was attacked, gunfire was reported at about 6:19 a.m. in the 900 block of Iroquois Drive, Davenport, according to authorities. The Davenport police officers who went there to investigate the complaint found the teen with fatal gunshot wounds.

Authorities alleged in court records that Vanderpool went looking for Sanders, then stabbed and shot him.

The attack was captured on video and police recovered shell casings at the shooting site, court records state.

Underlying the felon in possession charge filed against Vanderpool were two previous felony convictions, according to court records. One was for criminal gang participation in 2017 and control of a firearm by a felon in 2020.
A man who was sentenced to more than six years in federal prison in a scheme to sell unlicensed drugs, claiming to treat or even cure the terminally ill, now is serving as a vice chairman for the Rock Island County GOP.

Lawrence Stowe, 69, also has revived his efforts to solicit donations for medical treatments out of his brother's home in Moline. He said Wednesday that he was "innocent from the beginning" and intends to prove that several federal agencies, the federal judge and the TV program '60 Minutes' all were out to get him.

Stowe admitted as part of his guilty plea in federal court that, beginning in January 2006, he used several businesses, including The Stowe Foundation, to advertise and promote a medical treatment protocol for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) also known as Lou Gehrigs disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinsons, and other neurological diseases.

There is currently no cure for these diseases.

Stowe was at the time operating a clinic near San Diego, California. In early 2010, '60 Minutes' aired a two-part segment on his business, including hidden-camera excerpts with potential patients. He was dubbed a "21st Century Snake Oil Salesman."

In May of 2014, U.S. District Judge Gray Miller sentenced Stowe to 78 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, Judge Miller emphasized that Stowe took advantage of people dying and offered them hope.

Stowe on Tuesday, speaking from GOP headquarters in Rock Island, said the federal judge threatened him with a 30-year sentence if he did not accept the plea.

"I never got the chance to defend myself," he said. "It's just like the people from January 6 (attack on the U.S. Capitol). Those people didn't commit any crimes."

Though a federal grand jury indicted Stowe on two dozen charges related to the medical fraud, he said Tuesday, "They invented the charges."

"I was innocent from the beginning," he said. "I will prove that."

Restitution in Stowe's case was ordered in the amount of $419,358 to be paid with co-defendant Francisco Morales, who was sentenced to 60 months in prison.

Stowe filed a motion in December, seeking to cut short the terms of his supervised release. Among his justifications for seeking the early release, he pointed out that he has been paying the required monthly restitution and is involved in Illinois politics as a "volunteer Science and Technology advisor."

He also said he hoped to become a precinct committeeman in Rock Island County. After winning the seat, the county party recently elected Stowe to one of its vice chairmanship positions.

In opposing the motion for early termination of his supervised release, Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas H. Carter pointed out that more than $400,000 in restitution still is owed in Stowe's case.

"As the Court is well aware, Defendant Stowe masqueraded as a legitimate doctor to enrich himself by selling fake medications and false hope to families of the terminally ill," Carter wrote. "Defendant Stowe's claim that he is serving, or wishes to serve, as a 'volunteer Science and Technology advisor' to a political party should be chilling to anyone who knows his criminal history."

According to his website for the Stowe Foundation, he now seeks to raise $500 million. He continues to assert that treatment protocols exist for reversing multiple sclerosis.

"The donations being brought to the Stowe Foundation will bring hope to all who suffer debilitating illness," the Moline-based website states.

Asked Tuesday whether the website is a continuation of the conduct and misrepresentations that landed him in prison, Stowe said, "It's improved technology. I went to prison for '60 Minutes' misrepresenting it."

He needs $10 million for his "Tier 1" priority, the Stowe Foundation claims, including $500,000 in annual operating expenses. According to documents he submitted to the court in December, Stowe is retired and lives on Social Security, paying $700/month for rent at a Moline home owned by his brother.

Several members of the county party who reached out to a reporter about Stowe's new position declined to comment on the record, saying they do not wish to inflict damage upon their party.

Stowe mixes his medical interests with his political positions in letters to potential donors, writing, "The impeachment and conviction of (President Joe) Biden for his lawless behavior is just one part of the effort ... take down the organized Crime Syndicate that installed Biden as the puppet President."

At a federal hearing, a sister of one of Stowe's victims testified about how she cared for her brother in the last year of his life when he met Stowe and gave him $47,000 with the false hope of a cure. She said her brother did not have much money, so the $47,000 represented all of his savings. Her brother was preyed upon and never helped medically by Stowe, she said.

But Stowe said all of his past will be behind him when he completes his supervised release on Feb. 11, 2023. After that, he said, he will be free to run for public office. He said he is not sure what position he will seek.

He also intends to pursue legal action to have his conviction overturned.

"Once the Republicans regain control, my case will be on the (U.S.) Senate docket," Stowe said. "The people that know me best in the Republican party voted me in ... with the same information about my history."

Told it was members of the party who contacted a reporter with their concerns, he replied, "They're trying to destroy my character. Don't let them."

He said the Department of Justice, the FDA, the federal judge, federal prosecutors and '60 Minutes,' acting on behalf of "Big Pharma advertisers," manufactured the case against him.
Photo: The Canadian Press Gen. Wayne Eyre, Chief of the Defence Staff, speaks during a military announcement at CFB Trenton in Trenton, Ont., on Monday June 20, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Lars Hagberg

Canada's top military commander said he will "tweak" the vaccine mandate for the Armed Forces in the next few weeks but defended vaccine requirements as necessary to keep the military ready to respond to any emergency.

This is an institution that's unlike any other because we do have to be operationally ready, we are the nation's insurance policy, chief of the defence staff Gen. Wayne Eyre told The Canadian Press in an interview.

We have to go into dangerous locations and close confined quarters, we have to deploy overseas, where there's potentially an increased threat with the pandemic. We also don't know the trajectory of this pandemic, where it's going to go into the future.

When Eyre ordered all troops vaccinated against COVID-19 last October, he said it was to both protect the force and demonstrate leadership as the Liberal government adopted vaccine mandates across the federal public service.

The public service vaccine mandate was suspended in June but the military one persists, a fact that has heightened criticism of the military's policy.

The Department of National Defence said more than 98 per cent of Canadian troops complied with the order. Defence Minister Anita Anand was briefed in June that 1,137 remained unvaccinated.

Those who refuse vaccination face the risk of forced removal from the military. The department says 241 unvaccinated troops have been ousted with disciplinary measures initiated against hundreds more.

Eyre said he is trying to find the sweet spot between the militarys medical, legal, operational and ethical requirements.

"We need to maintain our operational viability going forward," he said. "So over the course of the next number of weeks, we will tweak the policy, we'll put out something amended. But we also need to realize that this is a dynamic environment, and things can change, the trajectory of the pandemic can change. So we've got to maintain that flexibility as well."

He added that not only has the military been called upon to assist in communities across Canada that have been hit by the pandemic, but that vaccine requirements still exist in many allied and foreign nations and militaries.

The U.S. military still requires all troops to be vaccinated as do some NATO facilities and bases.

There are going to be operational requirements where to operate with allies, (vaccination) is going to be essential, he said. But as we go forward, the options are being developed looking at those four factors that I talked about and finding the right balance.

Eyres comments appear to contradict a draft copy of a revised vaccine policy obtained by the Ottawa Citizen last month, which suggested vaccine requirements for military personnel would be lifted.

The draft document, which officials say has not been approved by Eyre, said military personnel as well as new recruits would no longer have to attest to their vaccination status.

The document also noted potential legal difficulties ahead to deal with people who were kicked out of the military because of the vaccine mandate, suggesting they could be forced to apply for re-enrolment.

By contrast, other unvaccinated federal public servants were put on leave without pay but allowed to return to their jobs when the mandate was suspended.

The military mandate was unsuccessfully challenged several times in Federal Court, most recently last month.

Phillip Millar, the London, Ont.-based lawyer who appeared before the court to seek an injunction on behalf of unvaccinated service members, said the court ultimately decided it couldnt rule on the issue until the new policy was released.

Millar, who is also representing James Topp, an army reservist charged with publicly speaking out against federal vaccine mandates while wearing his uniform, said he was disappointed with the decision given the lack of timeline for the new policy.

The military is deliberately dragging its feet on this new direction because it just wants to kick people out, Millar alleged, adding: It's obviously a political policy, not an operational policy.

Eyre would not say whether Armed Forces members are still being kicked out, or whether such releases have been suspended pending the results of his review.

The Defence Department says there have been more than 9,500 cases of COVID-19 among military personnel, including 113 active cases as of Aug. 1. It did not say whether there have been any deaths associated with the illness.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Tim Michels, a wealthy businessman endorsed by former President Donald Trump, won the Republican primary for Wisconsin governor on Tuesday and will face Democratic Gov. Tony Evers in a contest that could reshape elections in the marquee battleground.

Michels defeated former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who was endorsed by former Vice President Mike Pence and had backing from establishment Republicans, including ex-Gov. Scott Walker.

In his victory speech, Michels promised to focus on jobs and the economy and said he would stand up for people who "have been left behind by the Democratic Party that just wants to focus on the social issues.

As governor, my number one priority is to take care of the hardworking people of Wisconsin, Michels said.

Evers' campaign called Michels the most extreme and divisive nominee possible, one that will tell Donald Trump anything just to keep his endorsement."

Both Michels and Kleefisch falsely claimed the 2020 presidential election was rigged, a lie Trump has pushed in an effort to overturn his loss to Joe Biden. Federal and state election officials and Trumps own attorney general have said there is no credible evidence the election was tainted. The former presidents allegations of fraud were also roundly rejected by courts, including by judges Trump appointed.

Michels said decertifying the results of the 2020 contest was not a priority but said everything will be on the table. He supports other changes to voting and elections, including dismantling the bipartisan commission that runs Wisconsin elections.

The governors race was the latest proxy war between Trump and Pence, one-time partners who have backed opposing candidates in other swing states as they try to push the GOP in different directions. The results Tuesday added to Trump's record of wins, following victories for his preferred candidates last week in closely watched races for governor and Senate in Arizona.

Meanwhile, Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, who supported Trump's second impeachment, conceded defeat in her Washington state congressional district after being overtaken in late vote tallies by a GOP challenger endorsed by the former president. And in next Tuesday's slate of contests, Rep. Liz Cheney, who also backed Trump's impeachment and is the vice chair of the House panel probing his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, faces a challenging primary race.

Those developments, combined with the rush of support from Republicans after the FBI executed a search warrant at Trump's Florida estate on Monday, were fresh reminders of the former president's enduring grip on the GOP.

Back in Wisconsin, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes won the Democratic nomination to face Republican Sen. Ron Johnson, one of Trumps most vocal supporters. The matchup is among the last to be set before the November general election, when control of the currently 50-50 split Senate is up for grabs, and Democrats see Wisconsin as one of their best opportunities to flip a seat.

Wisconsins most powerful Republican, state Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, held off a Trump-backed challenger. Trump endorsed Adam Steen after Vos rejected the former presidents pressure to decertify the 2020 results. Vos said his victory showed you dont have to be a lapdog to whatever Donald Trump says.

Tuesdays outcomes have far-reaching consequences beyond Wisconsin, a state that is almost evenly split between Republicans and Democrats and where 2022 will be seen as a bellwether for the 2024 presidential race. The person elected governor this fall will be in office for the presidential election and will be able to sign or veto changes to election laws passed by the Republican-controlled Legislature. The next governor and U.S. senator also may sway decisions on issues from abortion to education and taxes.

Were a 50-50 state and so every race in Wisconsin, just by definition, is going to be decided by a few percentage points one way or another, said former Gov. Jim Doyle, a Democrat. And those few percentage points in Wisconsin may well determine what the course of the nation is in the coming years.

Elsewhere Tuesday, a Trump-backed candidate won the GOP primary for Senate in Connecticut, a state thats long been home to the Republican establishment. Republican National Committee member Leora Levy, whom Trump endorsed last week, will face two-term Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal after she defeated former state House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, who had support from the state party.

Voters in Vermont  the only state to never have a woman in its congressional delegation  chose a woman, Becca Balint, as the Democratic nominee for the states lone House seat. She is favored in the race to replace Rep. Peter Welch, who won the Democratic nomination for the Senate seat long held by Patrick Leahy, who is retiring. And Minnesota Republicans chose Dr. Scott Jensen, a COVID-19 vaccine skeptic endorsed by the state GOP, to face Gov. Tim Walz.

But the most-watched races were in Wisconsin, where Trump has kept up his pressure campaign to cancel Bidens 2020 victory. Biden won the state by nearly 21,000 votes, four years after Trump narrowly won the state by roughly the same margin. The 2020 outcome has been upheld in two partial recounts, a nonpartisan audit, a review by a conservative law firm and multiple lawsuits.

Evers has made voting and elections a focus of his own campaign, telling voters hes the only candidate who will defend democracy and we are that close to not having our vote count in the state of Wisconsin.

Both Michels and Kleefisch said overturning the 2020 election results was not a priority. But they said they would dismantle the bipartisan commission that runs Wisconsin elections and would support prohibitions on voters having someone else turn in their absentee ballots, as well as ballot drop boxes located anywhere other than staffed clerk offices.

Michels is co-owner of Wisconsins largest construction company and has touted his work to build his familys business. He lost the 2004 Senate race to Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold, and has been a major donor to GOP politicians.

At a rally on Friday, Trump praised Michels as an incredible success story. He criticized Kleefisch as part of the failed establishment and also took aim at Vos. He told supporters that Michels was the better choice to defeat Evers.

Michels pledged that we are going to have election integrity here in Wisconsin. He also said he will bring law and order back to Wisconsin, criticized Evers handling of schools and blamed Biden for rising prices.

GOP state Rep. Tim Ramthun also made a long-shot bid for governor.

In her concession speech, Kleefisch said, The fight now is truly against Tony Evers and the liberals who want to take away our way of life.

Barnes, in his victory speech in Milwaukee, emphasized his middle-class background and upbringing while casting Johnson as self-serving and an out-of-touch politician who cares only about special interests and wealthy donors.

It is time for a change, everybody, said Barnes, who would be Wisconsins first Black senator if elected. Its time for us to be represented by somebody who shares our experiences.

Johnson called Barnes the most radical left candidate Democrats could have chosen.

This is a contest between radical left socialism versus freedom and prosperity, he said.
Iowa Republicans jumped to former President Donald Trumps defense after the FBIs search for documents as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House to his Florida estate.

Some quickly denounced the Monday search by the FBI of Trumps Mar-a-Lago home in Florida, where agents executed a search warrant for classified documents, the Associated Press reported.

The Department of Justice must immediately explain their justification for this unprecedented raid, Marion Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson tweeted Tuesday.

A Republican majority will provide rigorous oversight of the Biden Administration and ensure they are serving the American people, not targeting them, Hinson tweeted.

The Miami Herald reported agents obtained a search warrant from a federal magistrate judge in West Palm Beach to get dozens of boxes allegedly containing classified material that Trump had taken to his home when he left the White House. A source close to the investigation told the Miami Herald the FBI was able to show probable cause because Trump and his lawyers had already turned over classified documents sought by the National Archives and Records Administration, and agents suspected that Trump was unlawfully holding other classified documents from his presidency in his private club and residence at Mar-a-Lago.

Some of the materials Trump took included letters and notes from foreign leaders, such as North Koreas Kim Jong Un, the Washington Post reported.

Trump and his allies, including Republican Party of Iowa Chairman Jeff Kaufmann, sought to cast the search as a weaponization of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep the former president from winning another term in 2024  though the White House said it had no prior knowledge and current FBI Director Christopher Wray was appointed by Trump, the AP reported.

Fellow Iowa House GOP members Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Ottumwa and Randy Feenstra of Hull also denounced the FBIs search.

Feenstra called the FBIs search an unprecedented escalation of the use of law enforcement against a former President.

Our Justice system should be consistent, fair, and transparent, Feenstra tweeted. The FBI must immediately provide a full accounting of facts. The American people deserve answers.

Miller-Meeks tweeted: Its time for Washington to focus on the crimes happening at our border and cities, energy independence and not wasting taxpayer dollars investigating political rivals.

Trump ally and Iowas senior Republican senator, Chuck Grassley, said conservatives have reason to be skeptical of Trump-related investigations.

Transparency brings accountability & if the FBI & DOJ arent transparent about raiding a former presidents home they risk further damaging their credibility, Grassley tweeted.

Fellow Iowa Republican U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst said, The American people deserve answers, now.

A totally unprecedented action by the DOJ and FBI  the same agencies who labeled parents domestic terrorists and sat on the sidelines while Justices were threatened and churches were vandalized, Ernst tweeted.

While no former president has ever been the subject of an FBI search of their home, former White House aides say Trump repeatedly and flagrantly mishandled classified documents.

Multiple federal laws govern the handling of classified records and sensitive government documents, including statutes that make it a crime to remove such material and retain it at an unauthorized location.

There is no revenge happening here, Iowa Senate Minority Leader Zach Wahls, D-Coralville, tweeted. There is no deep state acting here. There is a former president who appears to have broken multiple laws. There is an AG who is enforcing the law. That is what is happening. Dont let them gaslight you.
DES MOINES  Mallory McMorrow says she vividly remembers Zach Wahls 2011 speech on the floor of the Iowa House in defense of same-sex marriage.

Then an advocate with two mothers and now a Democratic state senator from Coralville, Wahls in that 2011 speech spoke out against a Republican proposal to ban same-sex marriage in Iowa.

McMorrow says she recalls watching Wahls speech and thinking, Just how cool that was seeing a young person stand up very publicly and speak as eloquently and forcefully as he did.

McMorrow could just as well be describing other Democrats reaction to her own viral statehouse remarks earlier this year  she raised more than $1 million in the wake of her speech  which is why she will speak this week in Iowa at a party fundraiser.

McMorrow, a Democratic state senator from Royal Oak, Mich., has become a rising star in the Democratic Party after her viral response on the Michigan Senate floor earlier this year to accusations that she was grooming children. She has been invited to and will deliver the keynote address Friday night at the Iowa Democratic Wing Ding at The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake.

The Wing Ding is the annual fundraiser for Democratic Party organizations in seven northern Iowa counties.

It feels so deflating for a lot of Democrats right now. And this sounds super cheesy, but if we can do pep talks all around the country and get Democrats fired up, Id love to do that, McMorrow said Monday in a phone interview.

Whether or not they are deflated, Iowa Democrats are at the very least in an electoral funk. Over the past three election cycles, Iowa Republicans have gained full control of the state lawmaking process by winning the governors office and majorities in both chambers of the Iowa Legislature, and have claimed five of the six spots in the states congressional delegation.

And Iowa Republicans have their sights set even higher for this fall: They believe they have an opportunity to earn a complete congressional delegation sweep and not only maintain but expand their hold on state offices by winning campaigns for state attorney general and treasurer, both of which have been held by Democrats for decades.

McMorrow said her message would be one that Democrats can take to voters even in states like Iowa. She said that she represented in the Michigan Senate a district that leaned conservative and included the hometown of Republican U.S. senator and former presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

We have to get past the idea that just because somebody says its a red state, doesnt mean its a red state. The people are there. We just have to find them and connect with them, McMorrow said. The response that Ive had over the past three months I think shows that people are craving Democrats (who are) standing up and fighting back and feeling the way that they do. And we have every right to do that and do it in places where it may not be expected.

The Iowa Democratic Wing Ding is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday. Tickets can be purchased at iowawingding.com.

The Republican Party of Iowa declined to offer comments for this article.
A federal appeals court on Tuesday denied the Oglala Sioux Tribe's request for a review of a U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission decision to grant a license for a potential uranium mine in southwestern South Dakota despite the tribe not being individually consulted on the potential impact to cultural resources.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit found that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission complied with federal law when it granted Powertech, Inc., a subsidiary of enCore Energy in Texas, a license to mine uranium at a 10,000-acre site near Edgemont. The company plans to use a mining method that injects a water-based solution underground, dissolves the uranium and draws it to the surface for processing.

The Oglala Sioux Tribe has mounted a years-long effort to halt the project, arguing that the project would endanger cultural and environmental resources on land that historically belonged to the Great Sioux Nation.

The tribe did not participate in a 2013 survey for historical and cultural resources because it disapproved of the methods and timing. It later argued against the license before the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board.

Although the board found that the tribe was not adequately consulted, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission kept the license in place because the tribe had failed to show it suffered "irreparable harm" from the licensing process. Federal regulators tried several times to reach an agreement with the tribe to conduct a survey, but they could not agree to a method.

The Oglala Sioux Tribe did not immediately comment on the ruling.

The federal court in its order found that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission had "satisfied its statutory obligations" during the license review process.

The decision clears the way for other permits for the project to potentially move forward. The Environmental Protection Agency has issued permits in 2020, but an appeal of that decision had been halted until the court ruled on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's license.

Powertech is also seeking South Dakota state permits. Those too have been put on hold while federal permits are challenged in court.

EnCore Energy did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the court's ruling.

Uranium was mined in open pits and tunnels in the Edgemont area from the 1950s to the 1970s, a process that left behind unreclaimed mines, buried radioactive waste and health concerns.

The uranium previously mined at the site was used for American nuclear weapons. However, this time it would be used for nuclear power plants. Powertech says nuclear energy is environmentally friendly since it's carbon-free.
DEADWOOD  The cobblestones of historic downtown Deadwood rattled with rally traffic Monday afternoon, as celebrities and riders alike gathered at Outlaw Square for the Buffalo Chips Legends Ride.

The event is dedicated to raising funds for local charities and bringing together rally-goers for a ride across the Black Hills, beginning in Deadwood and ending at the gates of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. Gov. Kristi Noem was among the celebrity riders, joined by Kevin Sorbo, Billy Lane, Earl Dotson, Cory Ness, Zach Ness, Michael Lichter and Rod "Woody" Woodruff.

This years charities included Special Olympics South Dakota  Rapid City Flame, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame and Treasured Lives.

Auctioned items included a painting of Noem, a Scott Jacobs custom motorcycle print, and a custom-built Harley-Davidson motorcycle Road Glide by Cory and Zach Ness. The bike went for $50,000, with the Noem painting bringing in $24,000 and the engine print bringing in $7,000.

We are so incredibly blessed to be here, Noem told the Legends crowd. We have always held the Sturgis Motorcycle Bike Rally, even in 2020, when the rest of the world lost its mind.

People came to South Dakota for freedom, she said, and we reminded them what freedom looks like and what it felt like, and still embrace today.

Noem said the rest of the country is suffering from mental health issues and increasing suicide rates, while South Dakotas are declining.

And thats because people are happy, and theyre happy because theyre free, Noem said.

After Noem spoke, she autographed the painting of herself while onstage, when it was then auctioned off along with the engine print and custom bike.

Im thrilled to be here with the Buffalo Chip, riding on the Legends Ride, Noem said. Empty your pockets out for this foundation, she said of Treasured Lives, a non-profit anti-trafficking organization.

I love you guys, Noem said. You look amazing. Let's ride. Let's have a fantastic time.

After the completion of the auction and a group photo, the Legends Ride launched from downtown Deadwood around 3 p.m. The 2022 Legends route is a 50-mile ride through the Black Hills, ending at the gates of the Sturgis Buffalo Chip.

Noem signed books and held a meet-and-greet during the Legends Ride Reception at the Buffalo Chip following the ride.

The Legends Ride has raised over half a million dollars for charity since its inception in 2008. Past charities have included the Childrens Home Society, Sky Ranch for Boys, the Buffalo Chip Challenge Scholarship Fund, Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, Special Olympics South Dakota  Rapid City Flame and Treasured Lives.
STURGIS  Stephanie Bearnson of Phoenix, Ariz., could only shake her head as a pair of tow truck operators put the first of a half-dozen motorcycles on the hook for being illegally parked in front of a row of porta-potties in downtown Sturgis Sunday afternoon.

The motorcycle was one of 10 lined up in a neat row, leaving space for potty patrons, but still putting a crimp in two-way traffic on a section of Harley-Davidson Way just yards from bustling Main Street.

Its just sad, Bearnson said. All these guys are going to come out and wonder where their bikes are.

Sturgis police officer Mike Bucholz began issuing $25 illegal parking citations as tow trucks from Plains Towing & Recovery and Olson Towing were dispatched to haul the bikes, one-by-one, to respective company impound lots.

One couple returned and quickly moved their bike before the citation was issued. Three other owners whose bikes had already been ticketed immediately ponied up the fine, all too happy, apparently, to avoid additional towing and impound fees which can exceed a couple hundred dollars.

It depends on the bike, one of the tow truck operators said of the potential cost.

The heavy crush of motorcycle and four-wheeled traffic during the opening weekend of the 82nd Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has led to a rash of illegal parking citations issued, according to Sturgis Police Chief Geody VanDewater.

Officers wrote 43 citations on Saturday and were on pace for a similar or even higher number on Sunday.

Weve seen an influx of people in town and theyre parking wherever they feel, even in front of porta-potties, parking out in the middle of the street, VanDewater said at a Sunday news briefing.

The only solution, he said, is ticket and tow.

You cant just leave them there. We have to remove the issue, he said.

Since the rally officially began Friday, officers have ticketed and towed motorcycles parked in front of residential driveway approaches, and in fire lanes.

The fire lanes couldnt be signed more, VanDewater said. Theyre parking right in front of the signs.

Porta-potties, however, were not initially posted for no parking. But as bikes were being ticketed and towed Sunday, a city employee taped bright pink NO PARKING signs to the doors.

Bearnson said there were no signs when they pulled up earlier Sunday.

Every time we park, we always look, she said.

VanDewater said residents who attempt to barricade street parking by placing folding chairs, sawhorses, traffic cones or other items in the curb in front of their homes are doing so illegally and adding to the parking crunch.

One resident near downtown was even spraying water at anyone attempting to park in front of his house, he said.

City Public Works Director Rick Bush said long-term free parking is available on Woodland Drive across Bear Butte Creek north of the Community Center, in the City Park, and at Woodle Field.

Our long-term parking is empty, said Bush. Nobody wants to walk a few blocks.

VanDewater said the parking and traffic crunch is leading to an increase in impatient and reckless driving.

They get growly, especially since most of these Harleys are air-cooled. So when youre sitting there, especially when its hot and youre not moving much, these bikes can overheat pretty easily," he said.

VanDewater said other than the parking issue, and an uptick in misdemeanor drug and paraphernalia arrests, the rally has been quiet.

Other than that, so far, were down, he said.
A managed forest is a healthy forest. Bring up trees or forest management, and its more than likely youll hear that phrase. While politicians love to talk in cliches, this one hits the mark.

As of July, over five million acres of forest have burned across the country. Five million. 2022 is on track to be the worst fire year on record. Throughout the years, activists have worked tirelessly to give forest thinning a bad rap. The reality is, though, thinning conserves our forests for generations to come. South Dakota knows better than most states that excessive tree growth and overcrowding can cause serious harm and infestation.

The Black Hills National Forest is one of South Dakotas treasures, but if you traveled there several years ago, youd see a much different forest than youll see today. For years, the Mountain Pine Beetle infected more than 430,000 acres of forest, leaving millions of trees dead in its path.

Pine beetles thrive in an overly crowded forest - they crave density. So, to tackle the problem, federal, state, local governments, and private citizens joined together to determine the best course of action.

The federal government gets in the way far too often, but the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bill included categorical exclusions to allow the Forest Service to more quickly utilize certain practices to combat the pine beetle. Proper forest management practices, like tree thinning and controlled burning, played a key role in improving the resiliency of our forest.

Today, the Black Hills are recovering from the pine beetle outbreak, but this is not the time to take our foot off the gas. We must continue to push for and meet prescribed forest harvest targets to prevent further outbreaks of the pine beetle.

A change in administration comes with a change in policy  this is something weve seen a lot throughout the last year and a half, particularly in the forestry industry. The U.S. Forest Service is consistently behind on harvest targets. This uncertainty impacts more than just the health of the forest and has rocked the milling industry in my state.

Just last year, a sawmill in Hill City, South Dakota, was shut down due to a lack of timber availability from the Forest Service. This cost the small town of Hill City 120 jobs. In a town of just 1,000 people, this was a huge hit to their economy. Last month, the timber industry around the Black Hills took another hit when an additional mill announced theyd be curtailing operations due to uncertainty.

South Dakotas mills have been faithful partners to the Forest Service for generations. But the uncertainty of lumber supply risks the longevity of our sawmills. When mills go away  or reduce hours  these workers have to find other jobs. Workers do not simply wait in the wings for when forest management becomes necessary again from an uptick in fires and bug outbreaks.

Weve seen the devastation from a poorly managed forest in South Dakota firsthand  we dont want to end up back where we started. Im confident if the Forest Service and local communities work together, we can get back on track to ensuring our communities remain resilient from wildfires.
Vneshprombank ex-managers appeal against court decision over their liability

MOSCOW, August 9 (RAPSI)  Former top managers of Vneshprombank have appealed against a court decision bringing them to subsidiary liability for the obligations of the bank.

The ex-bank executives appealed to the Ninth Commercial Court of Appeals against the decision of a first instance court of July 1 by which ex-Vneshprombank president Larisa Markus along with first vice-presidents Ali Ajina and Alexey Chirkov, vice-presidents Sergey Ryazantsev, Yekaterina Glushakova and Maxim Sytnikov, chief accountant Yulia Voronkova were brought to subsidiary liability.

Vneshprombank was declared bankrupt and therefore can not satisfy the claims of all its creditors in full as a result of actions (inaction) of the persons controlling the bank, what is the basis for bringing these persons to subsidiary liability for the bank's obligations, the ruling reads.

The Moscow Commercial Court has suspended the proceedings to consider the application of the bankruptcy trustee of Vneshprombank as concerns the estimate of the amount of subsidiary liability of the defendants until the settlements with the bank's creditors are completed.

As part of this dispute, on January 30, 2020, the court, at the request of the DIA, took interim measures freezing immovable assets owned eight defendants.

The Deposit Insurance Agency (DIA) found that from March 1, 2014 to March 14, 2016, the bank controlling persons granted loans to technical legal entities not engaged in economic activities and not having own property and incomes for servicing debts. Moreover, the deposit insurer revealed illegal funds debiting from the bank clients accounts. The banks execs also failed to take steps to prevent bankruptcy that caused damage to the financial organization.

According to the applicant, these circumstances should be considered as a reason for bringing the defendants to subsidiary liability.
She was a high school senior who knew she wanted to be a hairstylist and who, like so many successful business owners, turned to people she knew  in Dionne Hughes case, her grandpa  for her launch.

It was the hair dryers and other tools her grandfather bought and set up for her in his basement that started Hughes on a 30-year career with salons in her Richmond hometown and New York.

She shared her story at The Collaboratory of Virginia on Maywill Street on Monday during the BLCK Street Conference, a daylong teaching and networking session for Black-owned businesses.

Hughes made a point that many others did as well: its not just long hours and hard work that make business success. Having a clear idea of where youre going, and a network to support you, are key.

If you can envision yourself doing it, you can do it, she said.

Its not just dreaming, either. When Hughes began thinking about the idea of moving into the New York market, it meant some careful thinking about that market, about new stylings and approaches shed need to do.

Envisioning herself doing it meant thinking hard about regularly traveling to New York and what that would mean for her Richmond salon, as well as whether she could tackle the new styles and demands of New Yorkers.

But shes used to turning to others when running her business.

Early on, a salon-owner, hearing of her business in the basement, offered both a place in her shop and the advice that Hughes needed to go to school to get a state license.

Working there, Hughes saved the money she needed to buy the equipment and rent space for her own salon.

It was only later, once that business was solidly on its feet, that she felt ready to borrow money to expand her operations.

That was the first time I had a loan, and I was SO glad when I paid that off, she said.

Starting a business with her own savings, rather than getting into debt immediately, was the old-fashioned way of doing things, she said afterward. But it was the way that worked, she added.

Fellow panelist Jershon Jones, a managing director in the Harris Williams investment bank, said he was struck by one thing Hughes did as her business grew: that she shared some of her profit with the stylists working for her.

She gave up some margin but got more productivity, he said.

You need to think about all your resources ... capital isnt out there all alone, Jones said.

Those resources go beyond the money investors put into a business, but also include possible mentors and networks of others in business and the community, he said.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought home the need for business owners to make one especially important connection: a banker, said Jetheda Hernandez, senior director for strategic alliances and programs for the National Minority Supplier Development Council and owner of two businesses.

Some 70% of Black-owned businesses had to close their doors for at least some time during the pandemic, but many struggled because they did not have that vital banker connection, she said.

That meant access to the federal lifeline of Paycheck Protection Program loans was a lot more difficult.

Youve got to be proactive,said Floyd Miller, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Business League, echoing Hernandezs point, after only a handful of conference attendees raised their hands when Hernandez asked how many had a business banker.

In the end, said Markeia Johnson, manager of the Primis Works financial education and life skills program for single mothers, the thing about business is that it always starts with something small, and grows bigger.
A fox has tested positive for rabies in Henrico County.

Henrico police on Friday responded to a call about a possible rabies exposure involving a cat and fox. Police in a statement said a fox had tried to catch a kitten and was being held in a pet carrier.

The fox was taken to the state lab and tested positive for rabies. No human exposure was reported.

It is the third confirmed rabies case in the county this year.

The Henrico Police Animal Protection Unit reminded pet owners to keep rabies vaccinations current and to report abnormal wildlife behavior and any possible rabies exposures to (804) 501-5000.
Photo: . File photo

A former elementary school teacher in the Greater Victoria School District sentenced for possession of child pornography last year has been given a lifetime ban from the classroom.

Travis Curry Mitchell was arrested in June 2020 after police received a report about inappropriate communications between Mitchell and a minor. Mitchell had been in a position of trust with the minor related to a role outside of the teaching profession, according to a consent resolution with the B.C. Commissioner for Teacher Regulation.

After the arrest, police seized Mitchells phone and computer and found child pornography on his electronic devices.

He pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography on April 29, 2021, and was given an 18-month conditional sentence, and a year probation with conditions to have no contact with anyone under 16. He was also added to the national sex offender registry for a period of 10 years.

Mitchells teaching licence, issued in early 2018, was cancelled on Nov. 1, 2021.

In determining the lifetime ban, Howard Kushner, the B.C. commissioner for teacher regulation, considered that Mitchell was convicted of a criminal offence that involved the exploitation of a minor for sexual advantage, and that he failed to maintain appropriate boundaries with a minor.

The commissioner also said in his report that Mitchells conduct was at the serious end of the spectrum and had the potential to undermine the publics confidence in the teaching profession.
Major reported crime rose 28% in Richmond during the first six months of this year, although property crime  not violent crime  was the driving factor, Richmond Police Chief Gerald Smith said during a crime briefing Monday.

Property crime for the year is up 32%, and this a whopping difference of over 1,000 [offenses], Smith said. This is whats driving crime right now. Not violent crime, but property crime is pushing the envelope for us here in Richmond.

Reported violent crime  homicides, rapes, robbery and aggravated assaults  rose by a modest 1.7%, from 522 offenses during the first six months of 2021 to 531 for the same period this year. By comparison, property crime  larcenies, burglaries, vehicle thefts and arson fires  surged from 3,119 offenses to 4,134, the chief reported.

The number of homicides remained even from Jan. 1 through June 30  a total of 31 killings  compared with the same period in 2021. Of those, 28 were committed by firearms. Smith noted the department has created a new category that tracks killings by guns.

Nonfatal shootings also were even  109 offenses  for the first six months of 2021 and this year.

The chief began Mondays briefing with a statement about the ongoing controversy concerning the alleged mass shooting that police said was planned for Dogwood Dell on July 4.

We are closing all discussion about the planned Fourth of July mass shooting, Smith announced at the onset. The matter is now in the hands of the federal government. As it has already been stated, well follow wherever the investigation leads us.

The chief then reiterated his previous account that the investigation started with a tip about a mass shooting plot on July 4, and that the tipster provided information about firearms and other noteworthy information to assist in the investigation. While the tipster did not explicitly say Dogwood Dell as the location, the department, based on all information available at the time, determined Dogwood Dell was the most likely target.

At briefings end, two reporters tried asking questions about the incident, but Smith quickly squelched further discussion.

During a preliminary hearing last week in Richmond General District Court for the two men charged, a Richmond prosecutor told Judge David Hicks that he had no evidence that the alleged July 4 mass shooting was planned for Dogwood Dell. The prosecutor said there was evidence to support the potential for a shooting but not at a specific location.

The prosecutor then withdrew state charges against Guatemalan immigrants Julio Alvarado-Dubon, 38, and Rolman Balcarcel-Bavagas, 52, because he noted the U.S. Attorneys Office has assumed prosecution of the case and filed federal charges against the pair.

Both men are scheduled to appear Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Richmond for detention hearings.

Continuing with his crime report, Smith noted the surge in property crime was fueled by a 33% jump in larcenies  from 2,403 offenses in 2021 to 3,194 so far this year.

Weve seen vehicles being the main target, he said. Car break-ins, theft of vehicles. Were also seeing quite a few packages that are being stolen. Lock your cars, keep your valuables in your car out of sight.

Reported vehicle thefts rose 32%, from 340 to 449. Dont leave your car running, even if youre running into the convenience store, the chief said. Take your key fob with you; also, dont leave your valet key in the car. That is a great deal of how these thefts happen, is the valet key is left in the car, and people are just going through cars and will take the valet key and take the car.

Arson fires spiked a whopping 254%, from 11 in 2021 to 39 so far this year. Between April 1 and June 30 alone, there were 15 buildings, six vehicles and six super cans set ablaze, Smith said.

Break-ins also rose during the first six months of this year, but less significantly than the other categories of property crime. A total of 410 burglaries were reported through June 30, a 21% increase over the 339 reported during the same period last year.

Under violent crime, reported rapes inched up from 24 to 27, while robberies dropped from 162 to 133, or 18%. Reported aggravated assaults rose from 305 to 340, or 11%.

As part of the departments ongoing efforts to reduce gun violence, Smith noted that officers seized 532 firearms through the first six months of the year.

Weve gone back five years to find out where exactly the violent crime occurs, and weve located some areas  and 2% of [the citys] land mass for the last five years account for 26% of the violent crime here in Richmond, the chief said.
The states new hemp task force  created to analyze industrial hemp and products containing THC that are meant for human consumption  met Tuesday to hear presentations from officials as it works on recommendations for lawmakers ahead of the session that starts in January.

The analysis comes as Virginia has begun to work toward setting up a legal marijuana market and started regulating hemp products earlier this year.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the compound found in marijuana that is what causes a high, while cannabidiol (CBD) found in hemp products does not. However, hemp products have contained a small percentage of THC, as both compounds are derived from the cannabis plant.

Current federal law concerning hemp allows for hemp products to have up to .3% of THC. A particular THC compound called delta-8 spurred the creation of the task force.

Hemp products  such as gummies and candy  containing delta-8 have been sold at head shops and convenience stores. Last September, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued an alert that poison control centers were receiving an uptick in patients who had adverse reactions to hemp products containing delta-8. Insufficient product labeling was noted as a factor.

In June, Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, joined by 22 other attorneys general, submitted a bipartisan letter to Congress calling for federal action regarding copycat THC edible products. The attorneys general raised concern about products that are designed to look like popular brands such as Doritos, Nerds rope candy and Trolli gummy worms but contain THC, a psychoactive substance derived from cannabis plants.

While there was no public comment at Tuesdays meeting, an online portal to submit comments will be open until 5 p.m. on Friday. The task force, stemming from the states adopted budget, will then draft a report with recommendations to send to legislators by Nov. 15.

At Tuesdays meeting, Christopher Holstege, director of Blue Ridge Poison Center, gave a presentation on case studies in which children were treated at the center for consuming THC products.

He said the accidental adverse reactions are from children thinking they were consuming regular candy. Patients aged 13 and up were generally people who had wanted to experience delta-8 but had a negative reaction.

A common negative reaction was tachycardia, or a rapid heart rate.

Delta-8 is still technically legal federally following Congress 2018 farm bill. Jonathan Miller, the general counsel for the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, worked with federal legislators to pass that law. He said his organization is working with Rep. Morgan Griffith, R-9th, on legislation to federally regulate CBD and other hemp products.

Once Congressman Griffiths legislation ultimately is successful, a number of the issues that are at discussion today will hopefully be remedied with sound oversight and regulation from the [Federal Drug Administration], Miller said.

While he commended the task force for its efforts to analyze the compounds, he cautioned Virginia from legally blanketing all THC-containing products together.

We do not oppose the sale of adult-use cannabis. We dont believe in prohibition. But we wanted to draw a real distinction here between non-intoxicating and intoxicating products, he said. Most [hemp] products fall between very trace [amounts] to about 2 milligrams of THC per serving. Those products do not get you high and find your way into poison control centers.

Erin Williams, a policy analyst with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, also gave a presentation that outlined how other states have handled hemp regulations.

The task force is expected to meet again sometime either late September or early October, said Parker Slaybaugh, chief deputy secretary of agriculture and forestry.

I would like to try to have a majority of the report kind of combined and have it ready to kind of be reviewed by the task force, he said.
Three bystanders ran to a mans aid after he set himself on fire at the duck pond in Salem Sunday.

Kelseigh Meador, 30, of Salem said she and her children were enjoying the summer weekend afternoon at Lake Spring Park when they saw a man sitting on a bench on the side of the pond closest to West Main Street.

He was smiling, Meador said in a text Monday. When we walked by him, he smiled at my kids and said that they were beautiful. So we said thank you and smiled back.

Meador said on the bench next to the man were bottles of what she thought were Gatorade or Powerade.

Turns out it was gas, or something that was highly flammable, Meador said.

The mother and her two daughters finished their walk around the pond, and then Meador put her children into her car.

As I was walking to my side of the car, I looked over at him one more time, and he yelled something and went up in flames, Meador said. I screamed.

Meador and a married couple nearby rushed to put the fire out.

The lady jumped over the gate of the pond and was getting water while I was pouring water bottles from my car on him, Meador said. The husband ran to the store to grab a fire extinguisher.

Someone called 911, and first responders arrived to help, right after we had gotten him put out, Meador said. They finished getting the rest of what was catching on fire in the mulch around the bench.

Salem officials said city police and fire and EMS crews responded to the popular urban park, located at the corner of West Main and Green streets, around 1:07 p.m.

The man, who has not been publicly identified by Salem officials, was badly burned, officials said. He was treated at the scene and then rushed to Roanoke Carilion Memorial Hospital.

Salem Communications Director Mike Stevens said Monday that the city has nothing further to report about the incident.

I have confirmed that the burn victim was in critical condition at the time of his transport to Carilion, Stevens said in an email. While this is a very sad and unfortunate incident, we do not anticipate any charges to result from it. It remains under investigation.

Meador said Salem is usually a quiet place, except for the occasional overdose or wreck. She said while her 2-year-old didnt understand the commotion, her 8-year-old daughter witnessed the blaze.

She ironically enough had just grabbed a Bible from the free book thing and immediately started reading it, Meador said. Shes never read one before.

The mother said she prays she and her children wont have to witness a similar incident ever again.

The absolute scariest time of my life, Meador said. The worst smell and vision that will never get out of my head.

Meador encouraged anyone facing a mental health challenge to seek help.

This was not something I had ever planned to witness or have my kids witness, Meador wrote on Facebook. Please seek help. Or ask someone for help.
With war shrouding suppliers in Ukraine and Russia, Northrop Grumman has found a new partner to supply the engines and first-stage assemblies for a new version of the Antares rocket to launch from a regional spaceport on Virginias Eastern Shore to resupply the International Space Station.

The Falls Church-based company announced the partnership with Firefly Aerospace on Monday, capping a search for a new supplier for the Antares program that began before Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.

The invasion and subsequent U.S. sanctions cut off access to rocket engines from Russia and first-stage assemblies from a factory in Ukraine hit by cruise missiles last month.

But Northrop Grumman already was looking for components it could use in a broader range of space launches, including those linked to national security that cant rely on Russian-made engines.

Northrop Grumman and Firefly have been working on a combined strategy and technical development plant to meet current and future launch requirements, said Scott Lehr, vice president and general manager for Northrop Grummans launch and missile defense systems.

The new Antares 330 rocket that the companies will develop will rely on the same type of fueling system now used for launches from the state-owned pad at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Wallops Island, a barrier island along the Atlantic Coast in Accomack County.

Were excited that theyre moving in that direction, said Maj. Gen. Ted Mercer, CEO and Executive Director of the Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority, known as Virginia Space, which operates the spaceport at NASAs Wallops Island Flight Facility.

It means that Wallops will continue to be able to supply launches to the International Space Station until 2030  at least, Mercer said Tuesday.

The new Antares 330 wont be ready for launch any earlier than late 2024, so Northrop Grumman has had to make short-term arrangements to fill a gap the Russian invasion blew open for launching future resupply missions to the space station orbiting Earth.

After President Joe Biden imposed economic sanctions on Russias aerospace industry in March, Roscosmos, the Russian space agency, said it no longer would permit sale of RD-181 rocket engines made by NPO Energomash to the United States.

At the same time, the Russian invasion imperiled the Ukrainian rocket design and manufacturing complex near Dnipro that makes the first-stage assemblies for the booster rocket to lift the Antares launch vehicle and Northrop Grumman-made Cygnus spacecraft into low-Earth orbit.

Russian cruise missiles struck the Yuzhnoye State Design Office and Yuzhmash Machine Building in mid-July, reportedly killing three people at the factory and a neighboring street.

Northrop Grumman has rocket components for the next two scheduled resupply launches from Wallops, but it will have to rely on SpaceX to handle three subsequent launches from Cape Canaveral in Florida under a new contract with NASA that awarded six additional resupply missions to each company.

The Antares program has had to improvise before, after a rebuilt Russian engine exploded on liftoff in late 2014, causing $15 million in damage to the state-owned launch pad. The accident forced Orbital ATK, a Fairfax County aerospace company that merged with Northrop Grumman in 2018, to contract with United Launch Alliance to launch three resupply missions from Florida.

Antares returned to Wallops with a new engine for a successful launch in 2016, one of 14 from the regional spaceport.

The future of the Antares program also is clouded by Russian threats to withdraw from the space station partnership with the U.S. by 2024. NASA has refrained from reacting to the vow new Roscosmos chief Yuri Borisov made last month.

The official line is the U.S. is absolutely going to operate the station until 2030, with or without the Russians, said John Logsdon, founder and former director of the Space Policy Institute at George Washington University.

Logsdon said the alliance between Northrop Grumman and Firefly will be good news for Wallops if, as promised, the new rocket will be designed to use the existing launch pad and works as promised.

The partnership has to be successful in developing the hardware, testing it and then beginning to use it, he said. Saying youre going to do it doesnt automatically lead to success in doing it. Firefly is a new entry into the launch business.

If it works and theyre going to use the same pad, its a temporary hiatus for Wallops, Logsdon said.
If theres one federal agency you dont want throwing the book at you, its the U.S. Department of Justice. Percentage-wise, the DOJs criminal-court conviction rate is up in the high 90s. And right now its aiming a big book at Thomas T.J. Robertson, a former Rocky Mount Police sergeant.

Hes one of a handful of Western Virginians charged or convicted with participating in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

In April, a federal jury convicted Robertson of six charges: obstructing a special session of Congress; impeding police; entering a restricted area; two counts of disorderly conduct; and of destroying his cellphone after Jan. 6, which held incriminating evidence against him.

Federal prosecutors last week asked a judge to put Robertson away for eight years. That would be the longest sentence imposed on any Jan. 6 defendant so far. (Some of them have already been sentenced to house arrest or months or years in prison. Others are awaiting trial on even more serious sedition charges that could elicit lengthier terms.)

Robertsons attorneys are asking for a sentence of 15 months. If thats what judge gives him, hell soon be released because Robertsons already served 13 months, without bond, in jail while awaiting trial.

The big question is, how much time does Robertson deserve? For that, we need to look at Robertson, and his actions both before and after the attempted coup.

First, Robertson was a police officer for 16 years. He served the Rocky Mount department honorably from 2001 to 2010 and from 2014 to 2021. He also served in the U.S. Army in Iraq, and had a stint in Afghanistan as a private military contractor.

The town of Rocky Mount fired Robertson and a subordinate shortly after the insurrection. (The subordinate, former officer Jacob Fracker, pleaded guilty and testified against Robertson. Frackers also awaiting sentencing.)

Does Robertson get special sentencing consideration in light of his vocation and military background? He should  in the form of a heavier sentence.

As a cop, he cant pretend hes ignorant of the law, or that he doesnt understand the concept of trespassing or breaching a closed government building. Knowingly violating the law is even worse than unintentionally breaking it  and even in the latter case, ignorance of the law is a rotten excuse.

Testimony at his trial showed Robertson recruited Fracker and another friend to go to Washington that day. He was the instigator of their trip.

Its logical to conclude Robertson anticipated uproar in the nations capital  because he packed gas masks and a big stick to take with him. Those are what some folks might call evidence of premeditation.

Second, theres a little matter of some alarming social media posts Robertson made shortly after Jan. 6. In one, Robertson wrote he was fing proud he and Fracker entered the U.S. Capitol Crypt that day, and posed for a picture there with Fracker giving a one-finger salute to the camera. To emphasize that pride, Robertson also posted this: CNN and the Left are just mad because we actually attacked the government who is the problem and not some random small business ... The right IN ONE DAY took the the f Capitol. Keep poking us.

Those words hardly sound like honest reflections of someone whos ashamed of his actions, eh? Instead, they sound like a challenge.

Third, theres the matter of crimes Robertson committed after Jan. 6. Both he and Fracker destroyed their cellphones after the insurrection, to try to cover up their actions. Thats potent evidence they possessed a consciousness of guilt.

Fourth is the matter of Robertsons bail. After their arrests for Jan. 6, Robertson and Fracker were freed on bond. One of the bond conditions a judge set was neither was allowed to possess firearms pending trial. Robertson failed that test twice.

While he was awaiting trial, federal agents raided Robertsons home and seized a rifle from his home in spite of the judges warning. They also found a partially constructed booby trap. Robertson said the booby trap was something he used in training other police officers; he said the gun was his sons and he was unaware it was in the house.

Following those seizures, the judge let Robertson remain free, but warned him even more emphatically he could not possess guns. What did Robertson do next?

He ordered 35 military rifles online. He had them mailed to, and stashed with, a federal firearms dealer. When the feds found out about those purchases, they freaked out and revoked his bond in July 2021. Its understandable, given the prior court warnings.

Thats why Robertson has been in jail for 13 months  because he twice ignored a judges admonition not to possess guns while he was facing federal charges for the Jan. 6 insurrection.

Shortly before that bond revocation hearing, Robertson posted again in an online gun forum. Though a bit more reflective, he still seemed proud of his actions.

I have learned that if you peacefully protest that you will be arrested, fired, be put on a no fly list, have your name smeared and address released by the FBI so every loon in the U.S. can send you hate mail, Robertson wrote the post.

I have learned very well that if you dip your toe into the Rubicon ... cross it. Cross it hard and violent [sic] and play for all the marbles.

Those words tend to cast Robertsons purchase of those 35 firearms in an unfavorable light. They make him sound unrepentant and dangerous  and almost as if he was planning something bigger and badder once he got free.

Its enough to leave you wondering whether eight years in prison is enough.
Andrew Zachary Ray entered a no contest plea Monday to end a case that began three years ago with an arrest that closed off traffic to a rural section of Roanoke County.

The August 2019 police raid on Rays home on Keffer Road, an early morning operation that involved a fleet of law enforcement vehicles and drew television cameras and onlookers as a search continued for hours, turned out to be far more dramatic than the charges placed against Ray.

Ray faced a felony shoplifting charge in Montgomery County, sparked by stealing a blanket from the Walmart Christiansburg. He pleaded guilty in November 2020 in an agreement that brought him a day in jail and a $100 fine.

On Monday in Roanoke County Circuit Court, a prosecutor said that it was an off-duty Montgomery County Sheriffs Office investigators observation of the shoplifting that prompted a request to search Rays home. That was done with the assistance of Virginia State Police and resulted in the finding of a .22-caliber rifle.

Ray initially was charged with being a violent felon in possession of a gun, a charge that carried a minimum five years in prison. In an agreement worked out by defense attorney Deborah Caldwell-Bono of Roanoke, Ray pleaded no contest to an amended charge that dropped the violence designation and with it, the mandatory minimum.

He was convicted and sentenced to five years, to be suspended after he served three. Judge Charlie Dorsey imposed two years of supervised probation after Rays release.
Roanoke County has issued and extended its first substantial risk order since Virginias red flag law went into effect two years ago.

The order came after a man is reported to have made threats to kill local government officials over the phone late last month.

According to court documents, Douglas Paul England, 45, of Vinton called the Roanoke County Commonwealths Attorney Office on July 21.

He stated to [the secretary] that he was going to start hurting people and was going to [expletive] you up, an affidavit read. He had called the office several times that day stating that he was a United States citizen and was being deported due to a previous custody issue.

England had been in a previous relationship with a Roanoke County police officer, the document continued. He and that officer shared a child, who had recently reached out to England to mend their relationship.

England did not respond, having no contact with the officer or the child, the affidavit read, however at that time began contacting Roanoke County government offices.

England contacted several departments, wishing to file a complaint against the previously mentioned officer and demanded help in getting his rights back, the affidavit said.

Red flag laws rarely used in Roanoke, New River valleys Elsewhere in Virginia, prosecutors, police and sheriff's offices used red flag laws hundreds of times since they were adopted in 2020.

While a Roanoke County police officer was investigating Englands complaints, officers from the Vinton Police Department performed a well-being check at Englands Vinton residence.

When England saw the officers were from Vinton and not Roanoke County, he let them inside his apartment.

He denied suicidal or homicidal ideations and stated that there were firearms in the bedroom of the apartment, the affidavit read. England expressed his dislike for Roanoke County Police and government agents.

The next day, the county officer investigating Englands complaints discovered that he had also called the Veterans Crisis Hotline on July 21, stating that he was being deported and wanted answers.

When the crisis line was unable to provide England with rational answers he stated, Im done. Ill just start taking people out. Ill start killing off some people. Somebody will start answering my god-[expletive] questions. Time to start ending peoples lives, the affidavit continued. He made statements for the crisis line not to send police or he would flip his [expletive] lid.

The call to the hotline was recorded and supplied to the investigating police officer July 22. The Vinton officers that checked on England on July 21 werent aware he made the threatening statements when they stopped by his apartment.

England is known to have purchased multiple firearms as late as 2021, the affidavit read. His threats to kill people in government offices coupled with his known possession of firearms causes concern for the safety of those in those offices.

The investigating officer believed Englands possession of firearms posed a substantial risk to the community, and an emergency substantial risk order was served to England on July 22.

On that day, England voluntarily turned his weapons over to law enforcement officers. His concealed carry permit, issued on April 15, 2021, and set to expire in 2026, was also turned over.

Among the guns England surrendered were four handguns and a shotgun.

In accordance with Virginias red flag statute, a hearing to review the emergency order was scheduled Aug. 1, within 14 days of the orders service.

According to court documents, a copy of the notice for the civil hearing was posted on the front door of Englands Vinton residence July 27. But on Aug. 1, England didnt appear in court.

The judge called for police to personally visit Englands residence to deliver the notice, and the hearing was rescheduled for Aug. 5.

Four days later, the substantial risk order filed against England was extended through Oct. 21, when his case is scheduled to be reviewed again. Englands weapons will remain in police custody until then.

The extension was made upon motion of the Respondent and for good cause shown and with the concurrence of the Commonwealth Attorney, court documents read.

The terms of Englands extended risk order and the agreement reached between England and the court was not publicly discussed.
The Richmond areas two historically Black universities intend to build college partnership laboratory schools, seizing an opportunity introduced by Gov. Glenn Youngkin and backed with $100 million in startup funding for a statewide effort.

Details are scant. Leaders for Virginia State University in Ettrick and Virginia Union University in Richmonds North Side cant say where the schools will be built, how many students will populate them or who will teach the classes. A spokesperson for Virginia Union declined to speak in detail about the universitys plan.

But a VSU dean said opening a lab school brings the university closer to its community, delivers real-life experience and innovation to K-12 students, and helps education leaders learn more about what works and what doesnt between a teacher and the classroom.

Were definitely interested in partnering with our surrounding community to effect change in education, said Willis Walter, dean of the College of Education at Virginia State.

The two universities are among the first colleges in the state to announce such plans.

In June, the General Assembly allocated $100 million of the state budget toward seed funding for the establishment of lab schools, an alternative form of public K-12 education that's allowed greater autonomy and is funded through a separate budget.

Youngkin had sought $150 million for the initiative by taking funds from existing K-12 coffers. But legislators resisted and approved the lesser amount.

The law allows for colleges and universities with teacher education programs to open lab schools. Public and private four-year universities plus community colleges are eligible.

Lab schools can have specific focuses, such as STEM, at-risk students, special education or career and technical education, according to Virginia law. They can begin in preschool and last through the 12th grade. The schools, which can offer alternative instruction, scheduling, management and structure, award spots through a lottery based on availability, and students pay no tuition.

They will be funded through the College Partnership Laboratory School Fund, and the Board of Education will decide how much of the pot each school receives. Individual schools will manage their own budgets.

To begin the process, a college must apply for a lab school by detailing 31 separate items, including its vision, targeted student population, proposed location, estimated enrollment, names of proposed founding governing board members, a calendar and daily schedule, an academic program and more.

Once a school receives approval from the Board of Education, it must reapply every five years.

At the time of his announcement, Youngkin specifically mentioned historically Black colleges and universities, known as HBCUs, expressing hope they would participate. VSU and VUU are among the first to throw their hats in the ring.

The Richmond areas other four-year schools  Virginia Commonwealth University, the University of Richmond and Randolph-Macon College  havent indicated their plans. A spokesperson for the State Council of Higher Education said she did not know which colleges in the state plan to apply.

Macaulay Porter, a spokesperson for the governor, said there is great interest across the commonwealth to launch lab schools, which will expand opportunities for students in need of a different approach to learning.

One such example might be found at Southside Virginia Community College, which has seven campuses across the southern end of the state. The college is planning a collaboration between Microsoft and the schools Center for Information Technology Excellence to mold eventual data center technicians.

Lab schools would take a step beyond the colleges program, Youngkin said, because they have the ability to reach younger students.

I heard a lot of the word partnership,  the governor said in South Hill on Friday during a roundtable of Southside school officials and SVCC staff and students. I heard a lot about ninth and 10th grade. A lot about licensure. And I keep hearing hands on and thats so important to get students of all ages, 6 to 60, to engage with the future.

Its a challenge keeping students focused on math classes when they can meet the Standards of Learning requirement by grade nine or 10, Mecklenburg County school Superintendent Paul Nichols told Youngkin during the roundtable.

The city of Petersburg has expressed interest in partnering with VSU, university leaders said. Its unclear if the school would be in Petersburg or on VSUs campus, which sits across the Appomattox River from downtown.

Julius Hamlin, Petersburg schools interim superintendent, did not respond to a request for comment.

But VSU also predominantly serves Chesterfield, Dinwiddie and Prince George counties and the city of Colonial Heights, Walter said, and VSU could partner with all five localities. Lab school partnerships arent limited to a single school division.

VSUs lab school could focus on agriculture, engineering or computer science, Walter said, three fields the university already prioritizes. In the past three years, VSU has introduced students to augmented reality, virtual reality, three-dimensional printing and computer coding  all of which could find a place in a K-12 setting.

Virginia State professors and students already conduct robotics activities with nearby children and visit preschools across the street in Ettrick. A lab school would be a continuation of some of these efforts, Walter said.

It remains to be seen if teachers, professors or both would teach the classes.

Not only would a VSU lab school give students and families a new educational opportunity, it would present VSU professors and students with living, breathing research subjects for the field of education. The school would literally become an education lab.

Thats why theyre called lab schools, Walter said. There are numerous examples of lab schools across the country that VSU can look to as models.

Supporters of lab and charter schools say such initiatives give parents in struggling school districts a new option for educating their children. But critics say they can become yet another way to separate the haves from the have-nots or segregate white students from Black students.

This is where location and transportation are critical. If a school doesnt provide free transportation, families without cars may not be able to access it.

Walter said its a priority for VSUs lab school to benefit the vast majority of students. How thatll happen, he doesnt know yet.

Starting a lab school is a great opportunity to reconnect with one or more school divisions or communities in a much stronger way, he said.
Photo: The Canadian Press Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland speaks to reporters before heading to Question Period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Thursday, June 23, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang

The government is working hard to meet its end-of-year deadline to deliver dental-care coverage to kids, the deputy prime minister said Tuesday, but added providing new services is "complicated."

The Liberals agreed to offer dental coverage to low- and middle-income children by the end of the year as part of their confidence and supply deal with the New Democrats to keep the minority government from toppling before 2025.

Several groups have raised concerns about the very tight deadline, and four sources close to the program say the government is working on a temporary solution to give money directly to qualifying families while it comes up with a permanent program.

"As we experienced, for example, in rolling out child-care agreements across the country, delivering new services to Canadians is complicated," Freeland said when asked about the stopgap plan at a news conference in Toronto.

"I think Canadians understand that."

Freeland did not confirm or deny the government's immediate plans but said the Liberals are committed to the dental-care program, and it's a commitment she's "happy to make."

The government could pursue dental-care deals that resemble the ones it made with provinces to lower the cost of child care, in which it offered provincial governments money to administer their programs under a prescribed set of criteria. However, that route is looking increasingly unlikely.

Federal officials have also canvassed dental-health experts about other approaches. The government could contract out a national program to a private insurance firm or have federal public servants take on the work.

"Kids should not have their teeth get rotten just because their parents don't have enough money to pay for them to go see a dentist, I think it's as simple as that," Freeland said.

The Liberals set aside $5.3 billion over five years to fully implement the program. They hope to start with children under the age of 12 with an annual household income of less than $90,000.

Last week NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said he was confident the dental-care program would come together by the end of the year, as outlined in the agreement with the Liberals.

Freeland said the government is working "very, very hard" to make good on the promise to the NDP. The Liberals risk the NDP walking away from the supply and confidence agreement entirely if they don't.
 
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Starting in January 2023, LSU Health New Orleans' School of Nursing will educate students in three accelerated nursing programs in North Louisiana at its newly approved Off-Campus Instructional Site located on the LSU Health Shreveport campus. Courses will be delivered through a combination of in-person instruction and synchronous distance education, where students in Shreveport will virtually join classes going on at the LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing. LSU Shreveport and LSU Health Shreveport faculty will also teach some basic science courses.

"We are pleased to lead an LSU systemwide effort to quickly fill an urgent need for highly qualified nurses in North Louisiana," notes Dr. Steve Nelson, Interim Chancellor of LSU Health New Orleans. "Working with LSU Health Shreveport and LSU Shreveport, our accelerated nursing degree programs will address this critical situation."

Applications are now open for the Career Alternative RN Education (CARE) Program, a two-year program designed for individuals who have earned a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in any field and would like to become a nurse. Students will graduate from LSU Health New Orleans with a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree.

"The LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing Off-Campus Instructional Site provides us with the opportunity to academically prepare nurse educators in North Louisiana and provide a career path for individuals with a previous baccalaureate degree to enter into the nursing profession," says Demetrius Porche, DNS, Ph.D., PCC, ANEF, FACHE, FAANP, FAAN, Dean and Professor LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing. "By preparing nursing faculty and educating more BSN nurses, we would like to impact the nursing shortage challenges in North Louisiana positively."

Students may also enroll in the RN to BSN Degree Program, a one-year program of study specifically for the RN with an associate degree or diploma in nursing. The RN to BSN degree program provides a broad liberal and professional education that builds upon the competencies and knowledge achieved in previous nursing education and practice. Students will graduate with a Bachelor of Nursing Science degree from LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing. Application information is available here.

LSU Health New Orleans will also offer a master's degree with a Nurse Educator concentration. The Nurse Educator concentration is an intensive Master of Science in Nursing degree designed for completion in one year. The curriculum is built on theory and skills acquired in the Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. The purpose is to prepare nurses to become nurse educators and accomplish their career goals in academic, practice and service settings. Students will graduate from LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing with a Master of Science in Nursing degree. Application information is available here.

"We are thrilled to partner with the LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing, with their stellar reputation and track record, to offer these programs for students in North Louisiana seeking nursing and advanced nursing degrees," stated Sharon Dunn, PT, Ph.D., Dean of the LSUHS School of Allied Health Professions. "With the current and anticipated nursing shortage, our added capacity for training nurses and nurse educators will allow us to be part of the solution for our community's urgent and long-term needs."

Even before the pandemic, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics projected nearly 200,000 openings for registered nurses annually from 2020-2030. The shortage has only grown during the pandemic. Last year, the American Nurses Association sent a letter urging the Department of Health and Human Services to declare the nurse staffing shortage a national crisis.

"Registered nurses are in dire need in Louisiana to provide health care," notes Linda Ledet, DNS, APRN, PMHCNS-BC, LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing Off-Campus Instructional Site Program Director. "One solution to this problem is to provide education to qualified students who desire nursing as a career. The Bachelor of Sciences (BSN) CARE nursing concentration will admit 20 students in the spring and fall semesters. We hope to grow our admission numbers in the second year. Second-degree nursing students are typically highly motivated and have higher academic expectations than most traditional entry-level nursing students. These accelerated students excel in class and are eager for clinical experiences. Faculty find them excellent learners who are unafraid to ask questions and engage in discussions."

Hospital leaders in North Louisiana recently reported that they are experiencing a worsening shortage of nurses.

LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing is ranked the #10 nursing school in the US and the #5 nursing school among American public nursing schools.

LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans (LSU Health New Orleans) educates Louisiana's health care professionals. The state's health sciences university leader, LSU Health New Orleans includes a School of Medicine with campuses in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, the state's only School of Dentistry, Louisiana's only public School of Public Health, and Schools of Allied Health Professions, Nursing, and Graduate Studies. LSU Health New Orleans faculty take care of patients in public and private hospitals and clinics throughout the region. In the vanguard of biosciences research, the LSU Health New Orleans research enterprise generates jobs and enormous annual economic impact. LSU Health New Orleans faculty have made lifesaving discoveries and continue to work to prevent, advance treatment or cure disease. To learn more, visit http://www.lsuhsc.edu, http://www.twitter.com/LSUHealthNO, or http://www.facebook.com/LSUHSC.

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 600 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

Provided by Louisiana State University
 "'The World of Illusion Is at My Door': Why Panetti v. Quarterman Is a Legal Mirage" | Main | "Rethinking the Civil-Criminal Distinction" 

In this post six months ago, I asked "Are all three defendants who murdered Ahmaud Arbery now sure to get federal LWOP sentences following federal convictions?". The answer turns out to be no, as detailed in this NBC News article about today's sentencing:

The father and son convicted of murdering Ahmaud Arbery were both given an additional sentence of life in prison Monday on federal hate crime charges, while their neighbor was sentenced to 35 years in prison. A judge also required that Travis McMichael, 36, Greg McMichael, 66, and William Roddie Bryan, 52, serve their sentences in state prison, not federal prison as had been requested by their attorneys.

"A young man is dead. Ahmaud Arbery will be forever 25. And what happened, a jury found, happened because hes Black," U.S. District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood said during Greg McMichael's sentencing.

The McMichaels and Bryan, who are all white, were found guilty in February on federal hate crime charges in the killing of Arbery, a Black man who was running in their neighborhood when the defendants confronted him in February 2020. The three men were convicted of all of the federal charges against them, including hate crimes, attempted kidnapping and the use of a firearm to commit a crime.

Prosecutors sought life sentences for all three men. However, Godbey Wood said she thought it was necessary to distinguish Bryan from the McMichaels, in part because unlike his neighbors, he did not bring a gun with him when the men chased Arbery. "It is not lost on the court that two men brought guns to that situation that had their worst effect and you werent one of them," she said. She added, however, that Bryan was still deserving of an awfully long sentence."...

The federal case followed a state trial in November in which the men were convicted of murder and given life sentences. They have appealed their convictions in that case.
 4550   NOVO LAND180 6300 3.094 5031%   MIAMI QUAY 12 4162  2022   17.38  1000-1500  1.15213.85% 7178.3 19.1%   6  4.3% 17 186 18% 71228.17 0.96%  3700 17%  35498 8.29 1%318 186.19 56% 0.46% 8% 1   20Donki 
QUASQUETON  Deputies and firefighters rescued five people Sunday morning who were camping and later stranded on a sandbar along the Wapsipinicon River.

The people, as well as three dogs, avoided injury.

The Buchanan County Sheriff's Office received a call at 7:45 a.m. from a man who said his family was camping on the sandbar north of Quasqueton and near the 2700 block of Coots Boulevard.

He reportedly told the Sheriff's Office the recent rainfall caused his family's tents to collapse and some of their kayaks and tubes to float downriver, leaving them stranded on the sandbar.

Quasqueton and Independence firefighters assisted in the launching of a rescue boat from the Iron Bridge Access in the 2700 block of Nolen Avenue.

They eventually found and rescued the family.
LOS ANGELES  Health officials recommend that anyone infected with the coronavirus isolate for at least five days. But for many, that timeline is becoming overly optimistic.

The isolation period, which the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shortened in December from 10 days to five, is more a starting point than a hard-and-fast rule. According to the California Department of Public Health, exiting isolation after five days requires a negative result from a rapid test on or after the fifth day following the onset of symptoms or first positive test  a step not included in federal guidelines.

But many people don't start testing negative that early.

"If your test turns out to be positive after five days, don't be upset because the majority of people still test positive until at least Day 7, to Day 10 even," Dr. Clayton Chau, director of the Orange County Health Care Agency, said during a briefing Thursday. "So that's the majority. That's the norm."

But even typical, longer isolation periods carry very real effects, such as keeping people away from family and friends and out of work. While it may be disruptive, isolating is intended to stymie the spread of the coronavirus.

Dr. Robert Kosnik, director of UC San Francisco's occupational health program, said at a campus town hall in July that there's an expectation people will test negative on Day 5 and can return to work the next day.

"Don't get your hopes up," Kosnik told his colleagues. "Don't be disappointed if you're one of the group that continues to test positive."

In fact, some 60% to 70% of infected people still test positive on a rapid test five days after the onset of symptoms or their first positive test, meaning they should still stay in isolation, Kosnik said.

"It doesn't significantly fall off until Day 8," he said.

A study published by the CDC in February found that 54% of patients had positive antigen tests between five and nine days after an initial diagnosis or the onset of symptoms, though "the proportion of positive results declined over time."

People with symptomatic COVID-19 were more likely to continue testing positive five to nine days after symptoms first appeared. In the study, 64% of symptomatic patients still tested positive in this time frame.

"However," the study noted, "a positive antigen test result does not necessarily mean that a person is infectious. Similarly, a negative test result does not necessarily mean that a person is not infectious. Nonetheless, a positive or negative antigen test might be a useful proxy for the risk for being infectious."

The proportion of positive test results "was lower after asymptomatic than symptomatic infection," researchers found.

In general, the study said, "lower prevalence of positive test results over time and after asymptomatic infections might reflect lower infectiousness."

Here's a summary on guidance for isolation from the California Department of Public Health:

Day 0: Start of COVID-19 symptoms or the day of your first positive coronavirus test, if you're asymptomatic. Wear a highly protective mask around others if in the same room as others in your home.

Days 1-5: Remain in isolation.

Day 5: You can take a rapid test. If you test negative, don't have a fever and your symptoms are improving, you can exit isolation on Day 6.

Days 6-10: You can end isolation if your rapid test result  taken on Day 5 or later  is negative, you've been fever-free for 24 hours without taking fever-reducing medicines and your symptoms are improving or you don't have symptoms.

Day 11: You can generally end isolation without needing a negative rapid test result. But if you still have a fever, stay isolated until 24 hours after the fever ends. And if you are immunocompromised or have had severe COVID-19, you might need to isolate longer.

"If you do not have access to an antigen test, then we feel pretty comfortable that 10 days after your symptoms start, you are no longer infectious," Orange County Deputy Health Officer Dr. Matthew Zahn said.
Photo: The Canadian Press The RCMP logo is seen outside Royal Canadian Mounted Police "E" Division Headquarters, in Surrey, B.C., on Friday April 13, 2018. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

Saskatchewan RCMP say an arrest warrant has been issued for 50-year-old Benjamin Martin Moore, a convicted sex offender believed to be at the centre of an Amber Alert for two children.

Police say seven-year-old Luna Potts and eight-year-old Hunter Potts, along with their mother, are believed to be in South Dakota with Moore.

RCMP Chief Supt. Tyler Bates says Moore was being investigated by social services and the house where they lived was found abandoned last week.

Bates says police are looking to extend the Amber Alert into South Dakota.

He says they are extremely concerned for the safety of the children.

Mounties say they may be travelling in a 2015 dark blue Chevy Equinox.
A former elementary school in a residential area of Sioux City has been reborn as a performance arts center.

Flux Dance Company acquired the old Lincoln Elementary school building at 117 Midvale Ave. The building, which dates to the 1950s, has been named Jensen Performing Art Center in honor of Flux Dance Company's artistic director Jessica (Jensen) McCully and her family.

A grand opening and open house for the center is scheduled for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.

Since McCully returned to Sioux City in 2009, her goal has been to educate and inspire children and adults in the art of dance while positively impacting the cultural landscape of Sioux City.

Her vision for Flux Dance Company is to create access for all qualified youth dancers to gain a strong foundation in dance and prepare for professional level study and performance beyond Siouxland.

The company has brought in renowned artists to perform in Sioux City as well as teachers to hold master classes and workshops here. Flux has hosted highly acclaimed teachers such as Matthew Shaffer and Tracie Stanfield of New York, Matthew Prescott and Yush Sorzano of Los Angeles, and Chelsea Hightower of Las Vegas. This summer, Flux will host a workshop with Broadway star, Nikki Snelson.

In addition to Flux Dance, the Jensen Performing Arts Center will house Contemporary Dance Studio, a studio that offers instruction in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, hip hop, and acrobatic arts.

The first floor of the building will hold dance studios and music rooms. There are a couple of individual suites with private entrances available for rent. The entire upper floor will be available to interested parties with purposes pertaining to the performance arts.

An outdoor stage arena is planned to be completed this year. The stage will accommodate artistic performances for the community including music, theater and dance.
STORM LAKE, Iowa  State biologists aren't worried that a virus killing thousands of juvenile-age carp in Storm Lake will have a lasting impact on the species' population in the lake.

Thousands of common carp infected with the koi herpes virus have died and continue to wash up, lining beaches and shorelines with rotting carcasses and attracting birds dining on an easy catch of the day.

The dead fish all have been age 2, considered to be juveniles, leaving thousands of breeding-age carp in the lake to replenish their numbers.

"They're pretty prolific, so I think they'll bounce back pretty well," said Ben Wallace, an Iowa Department of Natural Resources fisheries biologist.

The dead carp began appearing about two weeks ago, but the fish likely have been infected for decades.

"It's likely there have been asymptomatic carriers of it for generations in this lake," Wallace said.

If the fish always have had the virus, why haven't large fish kills like this occurred before?

Wallace said some type of stress event, such as low oxygen levels in the water or high population density, likely caused the virus to manifest and become deadly. It's unknown what caused this outbreak, but spawning occurred about a month and a half ago, a time when the fish would have been more active and had close contact with one another to spread the virus.

It's the first documented case of koi herpes in Iowa, Wallace said.

"There's not much you can do," he said. "Fortunately, it's a species we don't really want there anyway."

The virus is specific to carp, and does not effect the other 20 fish species in the lake. It's also not transmittable to humans.

The outbreak is not indicative of water quality issues such as high nitrate levels or pollution in the lake, Wallace said. The virus has probably been with the carp since they were imported to the United States in the late 1800s, and there are no options to treat a lake full of fish.

"There's nothing you can do," Wallace said. "It's just going to run its course.

"It's kind of one of nature's checks and balances."
Trump says FBI conducted search at his Mar-a-Lago estate

WASHINGTON (AP)  The FBI searched former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence, people familiar with the matter said Monday.

Trump, disclosing the search in a lengthy statement, asserted that agents had opened up a safe at his home and described their work as an unannounced raid that he likened to prosecutorial misconduct.

The search, which the FBI and Justice Department did not immediately confirm, marks a dramatic escalation in a months-long probe into how classified documents ended up in more than a dozen boxes located at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year. It occurred amid a separate but intensifying investigation into efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and added to the potential legal peril for Trump as he lays the groundwork for another run.

Familiar battle lines, forged during four years shadowed by FBI and congressional investigations, quickly took shape again Monday night. Trump and his allies sought to cast the search as a weaponization of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep him from winning another term in 2024  even though the Biden White House said it had no prior knowledge of it, and the current FBI director, Christopher Wray, was appointed by Trump five years ago and served as a high-ranking official in a Republican-led Justice Department.

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, Trump wrote. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before.

Father, son get life for hate crime in Ahmaud Arberys death

BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP)  The white father and son who chased and killed Ahmaud Arbery in a Georgia neighborhood each received a second life prison sentence Monday  for committing federal hate crimes, months after getting their first for murder  at a hearing that brought a close to more than two years of criminal proceedings.

U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood handed down the sentences against Travis McMichael, 36, and his father, Greg McMichael, 66, reiterating the gravity of the February 2020 killing that shattered their Brunswick community. William Roddie Bryan, 52, who recorded cellphone video of the slaying, was sentenced to 35 years in prison.

A young man is dead. Ahmaud Arbery will be forever 25. And what happened, a jury found, happened because hes Black, Wood said.

The McMichaels were previously sentenced to life without parole in state court for Arberys murder and had asked the judge to divert them to a federal prison to serve their sentences, saying they were worried about their safety in the state prison system. Bryan had sought to serve his federal sentence first. Wood declined all three requests.

The sentences imposed Monday brought an end to the second trial against the men responsible for Arberys slaying, which along with the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor in Kentucky fueled a wave of protests across the country against the killings of unarmed Black people.

US pledges $1 billion more rockets, other arms for Ukraine

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration said Monday it was shipping its biggest yet direct delivery of weapons to Ukraine as that country prepares for a potentially decisive counteroffensive in the south against Russia, sending $1 billion in rockets, ammunition and other material to Ukraine from Defense Department stockpiles.

The new U.S. arms shipment would further strengthen Ukraine as it mounts the counteroffensive, which analysts say for the first time could allow Kyiv to shape the course of the rest of the war, now at the half-year mark.

Kyiv aims to push Russian troops back out of Kherson and other southern territory near the Dnipro River. Russia in recent days was moving troops and equipment in the direction of the southern port cities to stave off the Ukrainian counteroffensive.

At every stage of this conflict, we have been focused on getting the Ukrainians what they need, depending on the evolving conditions on the battlefield, Colin Kahl, undersecretary of defense for policy, said Monday in announcing the new weapons shipment.

The new U.S. aid includes additional rockets for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, as well as thousands of artillery rounds, mortar systems, Javelins and other ammunition and equipment. Military commanders and other U.S. officials say the HIMARS and artillery systems have been crucial in Ukraines fight to block Russia from taking more ground.

Albuquerque killings send fear through Islamic communities

Authorities on Monday identified the fourth victim in a series of killings of Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as the deaths sent ripples of fear through Islamic communities nationwide.

Three of the slayings happened in the last two weeks. Now law enforcement officials are seeking help finding a vehicle believed to be connected to the killings in New Mexicos largest city. The common elements were the victims race and religion, officials said.

Naeem Hussain was killed Friday night, and ambush shootings killed three other Muslim men over the past nine months. Police are trying to determine if the homicides are linked.

The killings have spread fear beyond New Mexico, where Muslims comprise less than 1% of adults in the statewide population of 2.1 million, according to the Pew Research Center.

The fact the suspect remains at large is terrifying, Debbie Almontaser, a Muslim community leader in New York, wrote on Twitter. Who is next?!

Biden surveys flood damage in Kentucky, pledges more US help

LOST CREEK, Ky. (AP)  President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden on Monday witnessed the damage from deadly and devastating storms that have resulted in the worst flooding in Kentucky's history, as they visited the state to meet with families and first responders.

At least 37 people have died since last month's deluge, which dropped 8 to 10-1/2 inches of rain in only 48 hours. Gov. Andy Beshear told Biden that authorities expect to add at least one other death to the total. The National Weather Service said Sunday that flooding remains a threat, warning of more thunderstorms through Thursday.

The president said the nation has an obligation to help all its people, declaring the federal government would provide support until residents were back on their feet. Behind him as he spoke was a single-story house that the storm had dislodged and then left littered on the ground, tilted sideways.

We have the capacity to do this  its not like its beyond our control, Biden said. Were staying until everybodys back to where they were.

In the summer heat and humidity, Biden's button-down shirt was covered in sweat. Pacing with a microphone in his hand, he eschewed formal remarks as he pledged to return once the community was rebuilt.

Olivia Newton-John, who played Sandy in 'Grease,' dies at 73

NEW YORK (AP)  Olivia Newton-John, the Grammy-winning superstar who reigned on pop, country, adult contemporary and dance charts with such hits as Physical and Youre the One That I Want and won countless hearts as everyones favorite Sandy in the blockbuster film version of Grease, has died. She was 73.

Newton-John, a longtime resident of Australia whose sales topped 100 million records, died Monday at her southern California ranch, John Easterling, her husband, wrote on Instagram and Facebook.

Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer, he wrote. We ask that everyone please respect the familys privacy during this very difficult time.

From 1973-83, Newton-John was among the worlds most popular entertainers. She had 14 top 10 singles just in the U.S., won four Grammys, starred with John Travolta in Grease and with Gene Kelly in Xanadu. The fast-stepping Travolta-Newton-John duet, Youre the One That I Want, was one of the eras biggest songs and has sold more than 15 million copies.

My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better, Travolta wrote in an online post. Your impact was incredible. I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again. Yours from the moment I saw you and forever! Your Danny, your John!

Misfired rockets may have killed over a dozen in Gaza battle

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  Close to one-third of the Palestinians who died in the latest outbreak of violence between Israel and Gaza militants may have been killed by errant rockets fired by the Palestinian side, according to an Israeli military assessment that appears consistent with independent reporting by The Associated Press.

The Israeli military said 47 Palestinians were killed in the weekend of fighting  at least 14 of them by Islamic Jihad-fired rockets that fell short.

No one in Gaza with direct knowledge of the explosions in question was willing to speak about them publicly. But live TV footage showed militant rockets falling short in densely packed residential neighborhoods. And AP visits to the sites of two explosions that killed a total of 12 people lent support to suspicions they were caused by rockets that went off course.

Israel is claiming victory in the weekend clash, in part because it killed two senior Islamic Jihad commanders and because no Israelis were killed or seriously wounded. If it turns out that Islamic Jihad harmed some of those it claims to protect, it would make for an even more humiliating outcome for the militant group and its main sponsor, Iran.

In Gaza, the ruling Hamas militant group heavily polices dissent, and many Palestinians view armed groups as freedom fighters defending their homeland in the face of Israeli aggression.

What to watch in Wis., 3 other states in Tuesday's primaries

The Republican matchup in the Wisconsin governor's race on Tuesday features competing candidates endorsed by former President Donald Trump and his estranged vice president, Mike Pence. Democrats are picking a candidate to face two-term GOP Sen. Ron Johnson for control of the closely divided chamber.

Meanwhile, voters in Vermont are choosing a replacement for U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy as the chamber's longest-serving member retires. In Minnesota, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar faces a Democratic primary challenger who helped defeat a voter referendum to replace the Minneapolis Police Department with a new Department of Public Safety.

What to watch in Tuesday's primary elections in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Vermont and Connecticut:

WISCONSIN

Construction company co-owner Tim Michels has Trumps endorsement in the governor's race and has been spending millions of his own money, touting both the former president's backing and his years working to build his familys business into Wisconsins largest construction company. Michels casts himself as an outsider, although he previously lost a campaign to oust then-U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold in 2004 and has long been a prominent GOP donor.

Ezra Miller charged with felony burglary in Vermont

Actor Ezra Miller has been charged with felony burglary in Stamford, Vermont, the latest in a string of incidents involving the embattled star of The Flash.

In a report Monday, Vermont State Police said they responded to a burglary complaint in Stamford on May 1 and found several bottles of alcohol were taken from a residence while the homeowners weren't present. Miller was charged after police consulted surveillance footage and interviewed witnesses.

The police report said Miller was located shortly before midnight Sunday and was issued a citation to appear for arraignment in Vermont Superior Court on Sept. 26.

The felony charge adds to Miller's mounting legal woes and reports of erratic behavior. The 29-year-old actor was arrested twice earlier this year in Hawaii, including for disorderly conduct and harassment at a karaoke bar. The second incident was for second-degree assault.

The parents of 18-year-old Tokata Iron Eyes, a Native American activist, also earlier this year filed a protection order against Miller, accusing the actor of grooming their child and other inappropriate behavior with her as a minor from the age of 12. Tokata Iron Eyes recently told Insider that those allegations were false.

Do spiders sleep? Study suggests they may snooze like humans

NEW YORK (AP)  It's a question that keeps some scientists awake at night: Do spiders sleep?

Daniela Roessler and her colleagues trained cameras on baby jumping spiders at night to find out. The footage showed patterns that looked a lot like sleep cycles: The spiders' legs twitched and parts of their eyes flickered.

The researchers described this pattern as a REM sleep-like state. In humans, REM, or rapid eye movement, is an active phase of sleep when parts of the brain light up with activity and is closely linked with dreaming.

Other animals, including some birds and mammals, have been shown to experience REM sleep. But creatures like the jumping spider havent gotten as much attention so it wasn't known if they got the same kind of sleep, said Roessler, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Konstanz in Germany.

Their findings were published Monday in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Trump says FBI conducted search at his Mar-a-Lago estate

WASHINGTON (AP)  The FBI has searched former President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence. That's according to people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation. Trump says agents opened up a safe at his home and describes their work as an unannounced raid that he likened to prosecutorial misconduct. The FBI and Justice Department have not confirmed the search. It marks a dramatic and unprecedented escalation of law enforcement scrutiny of the former president.

Father, son get life for hate crime in Ahmaud Arberys death

BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP)  The white father and son convicted of murder in Ahmaud Arberys fatal shooting after they chased the 25-year-old Black man through a Georgia neighborhood have been sentenced to life in prison for committing a federal hate crime. A U.S. District Court judge sentenced Travis McMichael and his father Greg McMichael on Monday in Brunswick. Both were previously sentenced to life without parole in a state court for Arberys murder. The McMichaels armed themselves with guns and used a pickup truck to chase Arbery after he ran past their home on Feb. 23, 2020. Neighbor William Roddie Bryan, who recorded cellphone video of the slaying, was sentenced to 35 years in prison.

US pledges $1 billion more rockets, other arms for Ukraine

WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration has announced another $1 billion in new military aid for Ukraine. Monday's pledge promises what will be the biggest yet delivery of rockets, ammunition and other arms straight from Department of Defense stocks for Ukrainian forces. The Pentagon announcement of a massive new shipment of arms comes as analysts warn that Russia is moving troops and equipment in the direction of the southern port cities to stave off a Ukrainian counteroffensive. The latest announcement brings the total U.S. security assistance committed to Ukraine by the Biden administration to $9.1 billion since Russian troops invaded in late February.

Albuquerque killings send fear through Islamic communities

Authorities have identified the fourth victim in a series of killings of Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as the deaths sent ripples of fear through Islamic communities nationwide. Three of the slayings happened in the past week. Now law enforcement officials are seeking help finding a vehicle believed to be connected to the killings in New Mexicos largest city. The common elements were the victims race and religion. Naeem Hussain was killed Friday night, and ambush shootings killed three other Muslim men over the past nine months. Police are trying to determine if the homicides are linked.

Biden surveys flood damage in Kentucky, pledges more US help

LOST CREEK, Ky. (AP)  President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden are witnessing firsthand the damage from deadly and devastating storms that have resulted in the worst flooding in Kentuckys history. Biden and the first lady are meeting with families and first responders in Kentucky, where at least 37 people have died after last month's deluge. Flooding remains a threat with more thunderstorms in the forecast this week. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and his wife, Britainy, joined Biden, who has increased federal assistance to the state to help its recovery. The White House says the floods and extreme weather around the country are reminders of the intensifying effects of climate change.

Olivia Newton-John, who played Sandy in 'Grease,' dies at 73

NEW YORK (AP)  Olivia Newton-John, the superstar singer who was everyones favorite Sandy in Grease, has died. She was 73 and her husband said she died Monday at her California ranch. Newton-John reigned on pop, country, adult contemporary and dance charts with record sales that topped 100 million. Her fast-stepping duet with John Travolta Youre the One That I Want and the bouncy, R-rated smash Physical were some of the era's biggest songs. She had 14 top 10 singles just in the U.S. and won four Grammys. Her husband said she was a symbol of hope after sharing her journey with breast cancer.

Misfired rockets may have killed over a dozen in Gaza battle

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  The Israeli military says that close to one-third of the Palestinians who died in the latest outbreak of violence between Israel and Gaza militants may have been killed by errant rockets fired by the Palestinian side. That assessment appears consistent with independent reporting by The Associated Press. Israel says 47 Palestinians were killed in the weekend of fighting  at least 14 of them by Islamic Jihad-fired rockets that fell short. No one in Gaza with direct knowledge of the explosions in question is speaking about them publicly. But live TV footage showed militant rockets falling short in densely packed residential neighborhoods. And AP visits to the sites of two explosions lent support to suspicions they were caused by rockets that went off course.

What to watch in Wis., 3 other states in Tuesday's primaries

The Republican matchup in the Wisconsin gubernatorial race in Tuesday's primary elections features competing candidates endorsed by former President Donald Trump and his estranged vice president, Mike Pence. Democrats are picking a candidate to face two-term GOP Sen. Ron Johnson for control of the closely divided chamber. Meanwhile, voters in Vermont are picking a replacement for U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy, as the chambers longest-serving member retires. In Minnesota, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar faces a primary challenger who helped defeat a voter referendum to replace the Minneapolis Police Department with a new Department of Public Safety.

Ezra Miller charged with felony burglary in Vermont

Actor Ezra Miller has been charged with felony burglary in Vermont, the latest in a string of incidents involving the embattled star of The Flash. Vermont State Police said in a report Monday that they responded to a burglary complaint in Stamford on May 1. Police found that several bottles of alcohol were taken from a residence while the homeowners werent present. Police charged Miller after consulting surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. Police said they located Miller shortly before midnight on Saturday and issued a citation to appear in Vermont Superior Court on Sept. 26 for arraignment.

Do spiders sleep? Study suggests they may snooze like humans

NEW YORK (AP)  New research suggests that jumping spiders show signs of sleep cycles, similar to humans and some animals. Scientists trained cameras on baby jumping spiders to find out what happened during the night. The footage showed patterns: Their legs twitched and parts of their eyes flickered. In a study published Monday, the researchers described this pattern as a REM sleep-like state. In humans, REM, or rapid eye movement, is an active phase of sleep when parts of the brain light up with activity. Some animals have been shown to experience REM sleep. But creatures like the jumping spider havent been studied very much.
GOP rallies around Trump following FBI search of his estate

NEW YORK (AP)  For much of the year, small cracks in Donald Trumps political support have been growing. But the FBI's search of the former presidents Florida estate has unified Republicans behind Trump as almost never before. By Tuesday, the day after the unprecedented search, the overwhelming majority of Republican officials were accusing the Biden administration of weaponizing the Justice Department. And for a day, at least, Republican concerns about Trumps past behavior and political shortcomings were forgotten. The FBI search also triggered a shift among Trumps advisers, who had been privately urging him to wait until after the midterm elections to announce another presidential run. Suddenly, they were urging him to launch his campaign now.

Rep. Scott Perry says FBI agents seized his cellphone

WASHINGTON (AP)  -U.S. Rep. Scott Perry says his cellphone was seized Tuesday by FBI agents carrying a search warrant. The circumstances surrounding the seizure were not immediately known. The Pennsylvania Republican says three agents visited him while he was traveling Tuesday with his family and seized my cell phone. Perry has been a figure in the congressional investigation into President Donald Trumps actions leading up to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. Former senior Justice Department officials have testified Perry had an important role in Trumps effort to try to install Jeffrey Clark  a top Justice official who was pushing Trumps baseless claims of election fraud  as the acting attorney general.

Did Trump break the law? FBI search raises fresh questions

WASHINGTON (AP)  Whether an FBI search of Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence is a prelude to criminal charges is unknown  especially unclear since other investigations into mishandling of classified information have ended without prosecution or in misdemeanor plea deals. The search focuses new attention on the thicket of statutes that govern the handling of government records. Much remains uncertain about Mondays search, including what precisely the FBI was looking for and why it acted when it did. The Justice Department has been investigating the discovery of classified material in 15 boxes of White House records that the National Archives and Records Administration recovered from Mar-A-Lago earlier this year.

Michels wins Wisconsin GOP governor primary, will face Evers

MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Businessman Tim Michels has won Wisconsin's Republican nomination to take on Democratic Gov. Tony Evers. Tuesdays primary sets up a high-stakes contest that could reshape how elections are conducted in the marquee battleground. Michels was endorsed by former President Donald Trump. He defeated former Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who had support from former Vice President Mike Pence. Both Michels and Kleefisch falsely claimed the 2020 presidential election was rigged, a lie Trump has pushed in an effort to overturn his loss to Joe Biden. Earlier Tuesday, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes won the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate to face Sen. Ron Johnson.

Takeaways: Johnson vs. Barnes in premier US Senate race

WASHINGTON (AP)  Ron Johnson, the most vulnerable Republican senator up for reelection this year, will take on Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes in a general election matchup that will help determine which party controls the Senate. Barnes would be the first Black senator from Wisconsin if elected. Meanwhile, voters in Vermont are poised to send a woman to Congress for the first time in the states 231-year history. State Senate leader Becca Balint advanced from Tuesdays Democratic primary to face Republican Liam Madden in a general election contest that will determine who will be Vermonts next representative in the U.S. House. Balint is favored to win the November election in the liberal state.

Afghan man charged in killing of 2 Muslims in Albuquerque

Police have announced a breakthrough in the killings of four Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico. A man from Afghanistan  himself a Muslim  was charged Tuesday with two of the slayings, and authorities identified him as a prime suspect in the other killings that put the entire community on edge. Muhammad Syed, who is 51, was taken into custody a day earlier after a traffic stop more than 100 miles away. Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina said it was not clear yet whether the deaths should be classified as hate crimes or serial killings. Police were still looking into possible motives, including an unspecified interpersonal conflict.

Large explosions rock Russian military air base in Crimea

KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Powerful explosions have rocked a Russian air base in Crimea, and authorities say at least one person was killed and several others wounded. Russias Defense Ministry says that munitions blew up at the Saki base and that the installation was not shelled. It said no warplanes were damaged. But Ukrainian social networks are abuzz with speculation that it was hit by Ukrainian-fired long-range missiles. Ukraine's Defense Ministry has not commented on the cause of the blasts. If the base was, in fact, struck by the Ukrainians, it would mark the first known major attack on a Russian military site on the Crimean Peninsula, annexed by the Kremlin in 2014.

Nebraska woman charged with helping daughter have abortion

OMAHA, Nebraska (AP)  A Nebraska woman has been charged with helping her teenage daughter have an abortion. The charges come after investigators uncovered Facebook messages in which the mother and daughter discussed using medication to end the approximately 24-week pregnancy. Nebraska law prohibits abortion after 20 weeks. Prosecutors charged 41-year-old Jessica Burgess with helping her then 17-year-old daughter end her pregnancy and then burning and burying the fetus. Madison County Attorney Joseph Smith says he's never had a case involving an illegal abortion in his 32 years as the prosecutor.

Grand jury declines to indict woman in Emmett Till killing

JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi grand jury has declined to indict the white woman whose accusation set off the lynching of Black teenager Emmett Till nearly 70 years ago. Tuesday's news most likely closes the case that shocked a nation and galvanized the modern civil rights movement. Leflore County District Attorney Dewayne Richardson says the grand jury determined that there was insufficient evidence to indict Carolyn Bryant Donham on charges of kidnapping or manslaughter. The decision comes despite recent revelations about an unserved arrest warrant and the 87-year-old Donhams unpublished memoir. A cousin of Till's called the latest news unfortunate, but predictable.

Serena Williams says 'countdown has begun' to retirement

Serena Williams says she is preparing to step away from tennis after winning 23 Grand Slam titles, turning her focus to having another child and her business interests. Im turning 41 this month, and somethings got to give, Williams wrote in an essay released Tuesday by Vogue magazine. Williams said she does not like the word retirement and prefers to think of this stage of her life as evolving away from tennis, toward other things that are important to me. Williams is playing this week in Toronto, at a hard-court tournament that leads into the U.S. Open. The years last Grand Slam event begins in New York on Aug. 29.
Centene Corporation headquarters in Clayton, Missouri in 2015. A lawsuit has been filed against health insurance giant Centene and its Chicago-based subsidiary Celtic Insurance Co., alleging the insurers defrauded them by overcharging them for plans that didnt deliver the benefits they promised. (Jeff Roberson / AP)

Consumers in Illinois and other states are suing health insurance giant Centene and its Chicago-based subsidiary Celtic Insurance Co., alleging the insurers defrauded them by overcharging them for plans that didnt deliver the benefits they promised.

Six consumers, including two in Illinois, are seeking class-action status for the lawsuit, which was filed Friday in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

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They allege that the companies, which sell plans called Ambetter on the Affordable Care Act exchange, give customers incorrect lists of provider networks. A provider network is a group of doctors and other health care workers who have contracted with an insurance company to provide care to its members.

The consumers said, in some cases, they called doctors listed in the network directories only to find that almost none of them took Ambetter plans. As a result, consumers faced delays in treatment, couldnt get treatment or had to pay out-of-pocket for other doctors because they couldnt find any in Ambetters networks, they allege in the lawsuit.

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Plan members have difficulty finding an in-network provider and sometimes cannot find any provider who accepts Ambetter insurance, according to the complaint.

The lawsuit also alleges that Ambetter plans routinely refuse to pay for medical services and medications that the plan purportedly covers. That can leave patients paying for medical bills without insurance, the lawsuit alleges. In some cases, the bills are sent to collections, leaving consumers stuck between disputing the bill for years and paying for medical care that the Ambetter plan purportedly covered, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit accuses the insurance companies of violating the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, of unjust enrichment and of violating the Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act, among other things.

Centene defended itself in a statement Monday, saying that it and its subsidiaries have worked, since the Affordable Care Act became law, to help members and their families gain access to comprehensive, affordable and high-quality Marketplace health plans.

This lawsuit is merely one more attack on the Health Insurance Marketplace and the ACA itself, Centene said in the statement. Centene will fight this lawsuit vigorously and will continue to uphold the important purpose of the ACA to improve the health of our communities, one person at a time.

More than 2 million people have Ambetter plans, according to the lawsuit, and the plans are sold on Affordable Care Act exchanges in 26 states. In Illinois, about 54,000 people have Ambetter plans, according to recent rate filings by the company.

The lawsuit alleges that the insurance companies often targeted low-income consumers, advertising the Ambetter plans to people who no longer qualified for Medicaid, which is a state and federally funded health insurance program for people with low incomes.

One of the Illinois consumers who filed the lawsuit, Alden Henriksen, alleges that after he signed up for an Ambetter plan in 2019 he called dermatologists on Ambetters list of in-network providers only to find that almost none of them accepted Ambetter. He then called the general practitioner in his area that Ambetter assigned him to, and that doctor also did not take Ambetter, he alleges.

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The other Illinois plaintiff, Melody DeSchepper, bought an Ambetter plan in January 2021 after she lost her job and needed insurance, according to the complaint. She alleges that she called 29 providers that were on Ambetters list of in-network providers or were recommended by Ambetters assistance line, and none of them took Ambetter.

The plaintiffs are seeking damages for the money they were allegedly overcharged for Ambetters plans as well as a permanent injunction that would put an end to defendants fraudulent and unlawful conduct, according to the lawsuit.

Celtic is among a number of insurance companies that have proposed raising rates in Illinois for individual plans, including those sold on the ACA exchange, for 2023. Celtic has proposed raising its rates by an average of 13.7% in Illinois for next year.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  A federal judge opened the door Tuesday for a district attorney to try to prosecute someone for a 2020 campaign ad by North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein using a specific criminal count that the Democrat contends is unconstitutional on free-speech grounds.

U.S. District Judge Catherine Eagles refused to issue a preliminary injunction two weeks after she signed an emergency order blocking temporarily enforcement of the state law by Wake County DA Lorrin Freeman because Eagles said Stein's campaign committee would likely win on legal claims that it be struck down. Eagles also canceled that restraining order.

Eagles reversed herself after hearing more in-person arguments last week. She wrote that the law was constitutionally permissible because it criminalizes false defamatory speech about public officials made with actual malice and provides enough breathing space for speech protected under the Constitution.

The statute advances compelling state interests in protecting against fraud and libel in elections and is narrowly tailored to serve those interests, wrote Eagles, a nominee of President Barack Obama.

Tuesdays decision can be appealed to the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia. Steins campaign was reviewing the order, a spokesperson said late Tuesday.

The ruling is a blow to Stein, a possible 2024 Democratic gubernatorial candidate. No one has been charged in the case, and its unclear who specifically would have been targeted -- Stein among others.

The law in question makes it a misdemeanor for someone to knowingly circulate false derogatory reports about a candidate to hurt that candidates chances in the election. The commercial criticized Republican nominee Jim ONeill, then and now the Forsyth County DA, about untested rape kits held by local law enforcement agencies.

Eagles initial order was issued July 25, the same day that Freemans office had planned to take the results of an investigation over the ad to a grand jury, according to legal briefs.

A few days earlier, Steins campaign, the consulting firm that produced the ad targeting Steins challenger and a woman who appeared in the ad sued in Greensboro federal court.

ONeill cited the law in his September 2020 State Board of Elections complaint against Steins campaign committee over the commercial, which asserted that ONeill left 1,500 rape kits sitting on a shelf in Forsyth County.

ONeill said the ad was false because police agencies, not prosecutors, are responsible for testing the kits. Stein defeated ONeill by fewer than 14,000 votes in the November 2020 election.

In 2021, the State Bureau of Investigation ultimately interviewed Stein, members of his campaign staff and the woman in the ad, who also worked in the AGs office, according to briefs.

The lawsuit placed Stein in the role of seeking to strike down a law that he would usually defend in his elected job as the states top law enforcement officer.

The lawsuit was filed in part against Freeman, a fellow Democrat in the most prominent DAs position in the state, as political corruption and campaign-related cases usually originate in Wake County. Freeman recused herself from the investigation, citing her working relationship with both Stein and ONeill, and put it in the hands of a senior assistant DA.

A signed statement by an SBI agent said Stein told him in a December 2021 interview that the disputed ad was an important corrective to false accusations by ONeill that Stein had failed to act on over 15,000 untested rape kits during his time as attorney general. Stein said he had reviewed the ad before it was aired.

Steins attorney argued that the law, which dates back to at least 1931, violates First Amendment protections and that similar criminal campaign-speech limitations in other states have been struck down.

Regardless, Stein campaign lawyer Press Millen wrote, nothing was aired to indicate ONeill was legally responsible for getting the kits tested. ONeill had a constitutional duty to advise Forsyth County law enforcement agencies, Millen added.

O'Neill said in an emailed statement late Tuesday that it was an embarrassment to the people of North Carolina that Stein was now trying to extinguish the very law designed to prevent politicians like himself from lying to the public."

The statute of limitations on the misdemeanor -- punishable by up to 60 days in jail with fines -- is two years. But someone with an otherwise clean record would avoid active time if convicted.
Papua New Guineas Parliament has returned Prime Minister James Marape to power following elections in the South Pacific Island nation. He was nominated unopposed to lead the next coalition government by Parliament on Tuesday. It did so even though vote-counting continues for some seats. Papua New Guinea has typically been governed by unstable, multiparty coalitions, but the constitution wont allow a no-confidence motion to bring down Marape for another 18 months. The contenders to lead the new government had been Marape and his predecessor who resigned in 2019, Peter ONeill.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi grand jury has declined to indict the white woman whose accusation set off the lynching of Black teenager Emmett Till nearly 70 years ago, most likely closing the case that shocked a nation and galvanized the modern civil rights movement.

After hearing more than seven hours of testimony from investigators and witnesses, a Leflore County grand jury last week determined there was insufficient evidence to indict Carolyn Bryant Donham on charges of kidnapping and manslaughter, Leflore County District Attorney Dewayne Richardson said in a news release Tuesday.

The decision comes despite recent revelations about an unserved arrest warrant and the 87-year-old Donhams unpublished memoir.

The Rev. Wheeler Parker, Jr., Emmett Tills cousin and the last living witness to Tills Aug. 28, 1955, abduction, said Tuesdays announcement is unfortunate, but predictable.

The prosecutor tried his best, and we appreciate his efforts, but he alone cannot undo hundreds of years of anti-Black systems that guaranteed those who killed Emmett Till would go unpunished, to this day, Parker said in a statement.

The fact remains that the people who abducted, tortured, and murdered Emmett did so in plain sight, and our American justice system was and continues to be set up in such a way that they could not be brought to justice for their heinous crimes.

Ollie Gordon, another one of Till's cousins, told The Associated Press that some justice had been served in the Till case, despite the grand jury's decision.

Justice is not always locking somebody up and throwing the keys away," Gordon said. Ms. Donham has not gone to jail. But in many ways, I dont think shes had a pleasant life. I think each day she wakes up, she has to face the atrocities that have come because of her actions.

A third cousin, Deborah Watts, who leads the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation, said the case is an example of the freedom afforded to white women to escape accountability for making false accusations against Black men.

She has still escaped any accountability in this case, Watts said. So the grand jury's decision is disappointing, but we're still going to be calling for justice for Emmett Till. It's not over.

An email and voicemail seeking comment from Donham's son Tom Bryant werent immediately returned Tuesday.

In June, a group searching the basement of the Leflore County Courthouse discovered the unserved arrest warrant charging Donham, then-husband Roy Bryant and brother-in-law J.W. Milam in Tills abduction in 1955. While the men were arrested and acquitted on murder charges in Tills subsequent slaying, Donham, 21 at the time, was never taken into custody.

The 14-year-old Chicago boy was visiting relatives in Mississippi when he and some other children went to the store in the town of Money where Carolyn Bryant worked. Relatives told the AP that Till had whistled at the white woman, but denied that he touched her as shed claimed.

In an unpublished memoir obtained last month by the AP, Donham said Milam and her husband brought Till to her in the middle of the night for identification but that she tried to help the youth by denying it was him. She claimed that Till then volunteered that he was the one they were looking for.

Tills battered, disfigured body was found days later in a river, where it was weighted down with a heavy metal fan. The decision by his mother, Mamie Till Mobley, to open Tills casket for his funeral in Chicago demonstrated the horror of what had happened and added fuel to the civil rights movement.

Following their acquittal, Bryant and Milam admitted to the abduction and killing in an interview with Look magazine. They were not charged with a federal crime, and both have long since died.

In 2004, the U.S. Department of Justice Department opened an investigation of Tills killing after it received inquiries about whether charges could be brought against anyone still living.

Tills body was exhumed, in part to confirm it was he. A 2005 autopsy found that Till died of a gunshot wound to the head, and that had fractures in his wrist bones, skull and femur.

In 2006, the FBI launched its Cold Case Initiative in an effort to identify and investigate racially-motivated murders. Two years later, Congress passed the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act.

The Justice Department said the statute of limitations had run out on any potential federal crime, but the FBI worked with state investigators to determine if state charges could be brought. In February 2007, a Mississippi grand jury declined to indict anyone, and the Justice Department announced it was closing the case.

But federal officials announced last year that they were once again closing their investigation, saying there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that she lied to the FBI.

Timothy Tyson, the North Carolina historian who interviewed Donham for his 2017 book, The Blood of Emmett Till, said the newly rediscovered warrant did nothing to appreciably change the concrete evidence against her. But he said the renewed focus on the case should compel Americans to face the racial and economic disparities that still exist here.

The Till case will not go away because the racism and ruthless indifference that created it remain with us, Tyson wrote in an email Tuesday. We see generations of Black children struggle against these obstacles, and many die due to systemic racism that is every bit as lethal as a rope or a revolver.

For Gordon, the renewed attention on the Till case has been a reminder of the social progress it helped spark.

It helps the younger generations identify how far weve come with the many liberties and civil rights that weve gained since Emmetts death, Gordon said. "As his mother would say, his death was not in vain.

Breed reported from Raleigh, North Carolina.

Michael Goldberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/mikergoldberg.
DECATUR  A Decatur mom is accused of murder after police said she drove the getaway car used by her son after he killed the man who had, barely an hour earlier, snapped a happy family Christmas portrait of the son and his girlfriend.

Kiona L. Cliff, 37, has yet to enter formal pleas on three alternate murder charges. She is due Aug. 18 in Macon County Circuit Court after being granted time to hire private defense counsel.

An arrest warrant filed by Decatur police details how the photographer and victim, Efrem O. Jones, 31, was cut down by six bullets on the afternoon of Christmas Eve in 2021. Cliffs son, Jatrevius O. Jarrett, 19, was arrested on murder charges in January of this year.

Jones ran a photography business from his apartment in the 500 block of South Church Street. The affidavit, signed by Detective Benjamin Massey, said he had just left his building when he was confronted by Jarrett and a male accomplice and then shot to death.

The arrest warrant and an earlier affidavit say Jarrett was seeking revenge after being jumped and attacked by several assailants just as he stepped outside from Joness studio following the portrait session. Cliff is described as being with him during that assault and, like her son, getting blasted with pepper spray in her eyes.

Massey quotes witnesses as saying both Jarrett and Cliff believed the physical assault after the Christmas picture-taking session had to have been set up by Jones the photographer.

One female witness is quoted as telling police: ...Jatrevius said he was going to go right back and said he was going to kill this (expletive), according to the sworn statement.

Police accuse Cliff of driving him over there in a car full of other people, including a baby, so he could carry out the killing. The same female witness is quoted in the arrest warrant as saying: ...Kiona sat in the car and Jatrevius got out and told her to open the trunk

...He got the bag out (which police say held the gun) and then started charging towards Efrem when he got out. Jarrett is then described as dashing back to the car before his mother fled the scene.

Jarrett denies the murder charges and, in a previous court appearance, said another unidentified man with him had fired the fatal shots in the confrontation with Jones. Jarrett remains held in the Macon County Jail with bail set at $1.5 million.

His mother also remains jailed with her bail set at $1 million.
Albuquerque police say they have detained the primary suspect in the killings of four Muslim men in New Mexico's largest city.

The city's police chief on Tuesday announced the update on Twitter. Chief Harold Medina says officers found the vehicle that investigators believe was involved in the slayings over the last nine months.

We tracked down the vehicle believed to be involved in a recent murder of a Muslim man in Albuquerque. The driver was detained and he is our primary suspect for the murders, the tweet said.

No other information was immediately available. Police say they will provide an update on Tuesday afternoon.

Naeem Hussain was killed Friday night, and the three other men died in ambush shootings.

Hussain, 25, was from Pakistan. His death came just days after those of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, and Aftab Hussein, 41, who were also from Pakistan and members of the same mosque.

The earliest case involves the November killing of Mohammad Ahmadi, 62, from Afghanistan.

This is a breaking news update. APs earlier story follows below.
A Southwest Airlines flight attendant suffered a compression fracture in her back during a hard landing last month in California. Federal safety investigators say the jolt was so strong that the flight attendant thought the plane had crashed. The National Transportation Safety Board completed its investigation without saying what caused the hard landing. The safety board says none of the other 141 people on board were injured in the incident, which happened July 1 at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California. The airport has a relatively short runway. The safety board has not made its documents from the investigation public.
President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden are witnessing first hand the damage from deadly and devastating storms that have resulted in the worst flooding in Kentuckys history. Biden and the first lady are meeting with families and first responders in Kentucky, where at least 37 people have died after last month's deluge. Flooding remains a threat with more thunderstorms in the forecast this week. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and his wife, Britainy, joined Biden, who has increased federal assistance to the state to help its recovery. The White House says the floods and extreme weather around the country are reminders of the intensifying effects of climate change.
A 48-year-old Lincoln man has been jailed on suspicion of sexually abusing a 12-year-old girl.

Prosecutors charged Diego Carter Sr. on Friday with first-degree sexual assault of a child. At a brief court appearance, his bond was set at $750,000.

In court records, LPD Investigator Jacob McCord said on July 24, the girl's father reported to police that she had disclosed sexual abuse committed by Carter starting a month earlier.

Carter allegedly provided the girl alcohol before the assaults, which are alleged to have occurred in Lincoln and Kansas City, Missouri.

Police arrested him on the allegations Thursday.
A 37-year-old inmate at Lincoln's community corrections facility was charged in Lancaster County court this week after he sent sexually explicit messages to a 12-year-old girl while on work release, police said in court records.

Joseph Hochstein was placed at the low-level custody facility in December while serving time for witness tampering charges that stemmed from a sex crime investigation, Lincoln Police Investigator Ben Pflanz said in the affidavit for the man's arrest.

While on work release for a local construction company in June, Pflanz alleged Hochstein began communicating with the girl, sending sexually suggestive messages and sharing inappropriate videos with her.

Investigators also found evidence that Hochstein expressed plans to impregnate a teenage girl upon his release from the custody of Nebraska's Department of Correctional Services, Pflanz said.

An investigation into separate messages to additional minors is ongoing, according to the affidavit.

A Lancaster County judge this week signed a warrant for the arrest of Shana Padilla, a 46-year-old Creighton woman, for aiding and abetting Hochstein in communicating with the teen.

For his alleged communications with the Lincoln girl, prosecutors charged Hochstein with felony child enticement.

He was moved from Lincoln's low-level custody facility to the Reception and Treatment Center.
Lincoln police have arrested a man suspected of selling fentanyl that led to an overdose last year.

Prosecutors charged Pau Lantos, 34, with delivery of a controlled substance and four counts of possession (fentanyl, hydrocodone, methamphetamine and alprazolam, which also is known as Xanax), all felonies.

Lincoln Police Investigator Forrest Dalton said on June 25, 2021, police and rescue workers were sent to 24th and Dudley streets on a report of an unresponsive man in a parked truck.

The 33-year-old inside had overdosed on fentanyl and was revived with Narcan, then hospitalized.

Dalton said police since have tied Lantos to the crime through texts and phone records. They believe he provided the man with a fentanyl pill, then left him in the truck when he overdosed.

About a month later, on July 19, 2021, police contacted Lantos and interviewed him about his alleged involvement in selling fentanyl, "which may have caused several overdoses," according to the affidavit for his arrest.

Dalton said Lantos had a fentanyl pill on him at the time, along with a small amount of meth, four hydrocodone pills and three alprazolam pills.

Police arrested Lantos on Wednesday at a gas station at 27th and Dudley streets. At a court hearing Thursday, a judge set his bond at $150,000.
The CTA Green Line station at 63rd Street and Cottage Grove Avenue is seen from 61st Street and Cottage Grove on Aug. 8, 2022. The CTA has repeatedly suspended train service to the three stops on the Cottage Grove branch of the Green Line because of staffing problems, replacing it with shuttle bus service. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

Janice Thompson typically takes the Green Line to and from her job downtown, but recently she found her routine disrupted: Service on the Cottage Grove branch of the train line was suspended, and she had to catch a shuttle bus to finish her commute.

That meant a longer trip and getting home from work later.

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It just moves things back, Thompson, 58, said. I have a routine. I get home, I do what I have to do to prepare for the day.

Service on the two-stop Cottage Grove branch that runs through Woodlawn has been repeatedly suspended this year, and at least eight of the outages were related to staffing, according to service alerts and CTA data obtained through an open records request. Riders have been left to rely on shuttles, or find other ways around the city. In some cases, they said they have instead weighed paying for ride-shares, finding a carpool, or transferring between multiple buses and trains to bypass the outage.

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Janice Thompson, at the CTA Green Line station at 63rd Street and Cottage Grove Avenue on Aug. 4, 2022, typically takes the Green Line to and from her job downtown. But service on the Cottage Grove branch of the train line has been disrupted often. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

The suspensions are one stark sign of the staffing issues that have upended bus and train service. Unreliable service is among the challenges encountered by riders looking to return to public transit after leaving in the early days of the pandemic, and has disrupted the routines and commutes of those who have continued to rely on transit to get to work, appointments, family and social gatherings.

The CTA has pointed to bus and rail operator shortages as one reason for unreliable service across the system. In May, the CTA had about 1,000 fewer union positions than in 2019, a CTA spokesman has previously said, though recent hires have brought the number of vacancies down.

The majority of open positions are for bus operators. The CTA has hired more than 400 bus operators since the start of 2021, records show, and last week the agency said 80 full-time drivers had finished training and were entering service. The transit agency is still short about 675 bus operators compared with 2019, spokeswoman Catherine Hosinski said.

Its less clear how many train operators positions have been filled. The CTA said it does not directly hire for rail operators, but rather those looking to become operators must work their way through other positions. By deadline Monday, the agency had not provided the number of rail operator positions filled.

A competitive job market and high employee attrition are among the factors contributing to employee shortages, the CTA said Monday. CTA President Dorval Carter has previously highlighted the high stress of operating a bus or train, which was exacerbated during the pandemic.

People walk past a CTA Green Line train at the station at 63rd Street and Cottage Grove Avenue in Chicago on Aug. 8, 2022. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

On the Green Line, employees have had more long-term absences than on other lines, Hosinski said. The Cottage Grove branch has fewer riders than other parts of the system. The neighboring branch on the south end of the Green Line, Ashland/63rd, connects with some of CTAs busiest bus routes along Ashland Avenue, she said.

When employees take unplanned absences, the CTA has sometimes temporarily suspended rail service to Cottage Grove.

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Its unclear how long each of the Green Line service suspensions lasted. Many were near holidays or on weekends. Shuttle buses or in some cases an occasional shuttle train were provided to replace regular service, alerts indicate.

This is a bigger deal than an occasional canceled bus, or a bigger deal than an occasional gap in service, said Joseph Schwieterman, director of DePaul Universitys Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development. People come to a station with the expectation they can get where they need to go, or they can catch a train without thinking about outages.

Schwieterman acknowledged finding workers can be difficult, especially because many vacancies such as those for operators are skilled positions, and employee attrition contributes to challenges. But in a city with persistent unemployment, staffing should not be responsible for repeated service outages, he said.

A Green Line train at 61st Street and Calumet Avenue in Chicago after leaving the station at 63rd Street and Cottage Grove Avenue on Aug. 8, 2022. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

Should service suspensions remain necessary, planned outages are easier to manage for riders, who depend on predictability, he said.

Robin Rufus rides the Cottage Grove branch of the Green Line weekly, and said she has had to reschedule appointments when trains doesnt run. Stopped service at night can be scary, making riders feel like targets for crime, she said.

If the service outages continue, she might consider leaving the neighborhood for one where transit service is better, she said.

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We have to reschedule appointments that we miss or were late for, she said. And, people having financial difficulties, they cant afford to keep going back and forth and having issues with transportation. Thats something we dont need a problem with, because we have all these other issues.

sfreishtat@chicagotribune.com
Actor Ezra Miller has been charged with felony burglary in Stamford, Vermont, the latest in a string of incidents involving the embattled star of The Flash.

In a report Monday, Vermont State Police said they responded to a burglary complaint in Stamford on May 1 and found several bottles of alcohol were taken from a residence while the homeowners weren't present. Miller was charged after police consulted surveillance footage and interviewed witnesses.

The police report said Miller was located shortly before midnight Sunday and was issued a citation to appear for arraignment in Vermont Superior Court on Sept. 26.

The felony charge adds to Miller's mounting legal woes and reports of erratic behavior. The 29-year-old actor was arrested twice earlier this year in Hawaii, including for disorderly conduct and harassment at a karaoke bar. The second incident was for second-degree assault.

The parents of 18-year-old Tokata Iron Eyes, a Native American activist, also earlier this year filed a protection order against Miller, accusing the actor of grooming their child and other inappropriate behavior with her as a minor from the age of 12. Tokata Iron Eyes recently told Insider that those allegations were false.

Attorneys for Miller didn't immediately respond to requests for comment on the Vermont felony charge or the protection order related to Tokata Iron Eyes.

After appearing in several films for Warner Bros. and D.C. Films as the Flash, Miller stars in the upcoming standalone film The Flash, due out in June 2023. Though Warner Bros. last week axed the nearly completed Batgirl film, the studio has suggested it remains committed to releasing The Flash.

In an earnings report last week, David Zaslav, chief executive of Warner Bros. Discovery referenced The Flash. We have seen The Flash, Black Adam and Shazam 2. We are very excited about them," said Zaslav. "We think they are terrific, and we think we can make them even better.

Representatives for Warner Bros. didn't respond to messages Monday.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP)  A federal appeals court on Tuesday denied the Oglala Sioux Tribe's request for a review of a U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission decision to grant a license for a potential uranium mine in southwestern South Dakota despite the tribe not being individually consulted on the potential impact to cultural resources.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit found that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission complied with federal law when it granted Powertech, Inc., a subsidiary of enCore Energy in Texas, a license to mine uranium at a 10,000-acre site near Edgemont, South Dakota. The company plans to use a mining method that injects a water-based solution underground, dissolves the uranium and draws it to the surface for processing.

The Oglala Sioux Tribe has mounted a years-long effort to halt the project, arguing that the project would endanger cultural and environmental resources on land that historically belonged to the Great Sioux Nation.

The tribe did not participate in a 2013 survey for historical and cultural resources because it disapproved of the methods and timing. It later argued against the license before the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board.

Although the board found that the tribe was not adequately consulted, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission kept the license in place because the tribe had failed to show it suffered irreparable harm from the licensing process. Federal regulators tried several times to reach an agreement with the tribe to conduct a survey, but they could not agree to a method.

The Oglala Sioux Tribe did not immediately comment on the ruling.

The federal court in its order found that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission had satisfied its statutory obligations during the license review process.

The decision clears the way for other permits for the project to potentially move forward. The Environmental Protection Agency has issued permits in 2020, but an appeal of that decision had been halted until the court ruled on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's license.

Powertech is also seeking South Dakota state permits. Those too have been put on hold while federal permits are challenged in court.

EnCore Energy did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the court's ruling.

Uranium was mined in open pits and tunnels in the Edgemont area from the 1950s to the 1970s, a process that left behind unreclaimed mines, buried radioactive waste and health concerns.

The uranium previously mined at the site was used for American nuclear weapons. However, this time it would be used for nuclear power plants. Powertech says nuclear energy is environmentally friendly since its carbon-free.
With $90 million movies being canceled and titles disappearing without notice, HBO Max seems to be facing an uncertain future thanks to the merger of its parent company WarnerMedia with Discovery. The television market is no stranger to volatility, but the loss of HBO Maxs original programming could represent a major setback for queer representation on television.

Perhaps thats why my Twitter has looked like the last moments of the Titanic for the last several days, fans desperately trying to toss their favorite shows onto the life raft to safety.

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Mainstream queer television content is still a relatively new concept. There was Melrose Place in the 90s, featuring a gay male lead in its first five seasons. In 1998, Will & Grace helped modernize the multi-camera sitcom with its lead ensemble including two gay men. A year before that, Ellen DeGeneres came out in tandem with the character she played on her ABC sitcom Ellen. The moment was etched in pop culture history, but the show died a year later. All too often, LGBTQ+ stories were sidelined or shuttered from the screen.

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When Netflix began debuting original content in 2013, LGBTQ+ stories were a major ingredient.

Orange is the New Black featured an ensemble of queer characters. Sense8 won the GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Drama Series and was lauded for its queer representation. The series was canceled after two seasons in June 2017, but after an intense fan backlash, Netflix ordered a two-hour wrapup movie.

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The fear is still realand rational given televisions unkind history.

Half a decade later, cancellations are as common as the sunset for Netflix. But not only has its business model changed, its identity has too. While Netflix once seemed like a progressive beacon, highlighting gender and sexuality in ways broadcast television often deemed too taboo, the service has pivoted towards more mainstream audiences. When Dave Chappelles standup special The Closer drew criticism from Netflixs customers and its staff for transphobic content, co-CEO Ted Sarandos doubled down, defending Chappelles comments. In a memo to staff, Sarandos said If youd find it hard to support our content breadth, Netflix may not be the best place for you.

As other streaming services have shifted course, LGBTQ+ titles have often been among the first on the chopping block. Earlier this month, Netflix canceled First Kill, an LGBTQ+ romance vampire show, after just one season, Deadline reported. The showrunner has since criticized the service for its marketing of the series. With a lack of stability and consistent representation, the streaming world has fallen into the all-too-familiar heteronormativity that has dominated television since its inception.

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Thats, in part, why HBO Max has been such a breath of fresh air. With originals such as Hacks and Our Flag Means Death garnering critical acclaim, HBO Max not only tapped into a queer market, but strived to keep those audiences.

Naveen Hrishikesh, a 24-year-old in Virginia, was one of many in crisis regarding the services uncertain future. He said he feels passionate about HBO Maxs catalog because many of their originals, such as The Sex Lives of College Girls, touch on relatable identity issues.

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HBO Max has such a pulse on the culture, he said. To some people it may seem silly, like theyre just shows but, they are important cultural touchstones for a lot of people, including me.

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The Other Twoan original that aired its initial season on Comedy Centralis a rare show that truly puts the gay experience on display. Its not written from and for a straight lens (thats Modern Family). Its TV by gay people, for gay people as Twitter user Tom Zohar put it. And it could all be washed away.

After the cancellation of Batgirl, which would have featured transgender actress Ivory Aquino alongside Leslie Graces Latina supeheroine, rumors swirled that HBO Max could be slashing its development staff and cutting back on original content. And while Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav sought to lay those concerns to rest in an investor call at the end of last week, the fear is still realand rational given televisions unkind history.

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For one thing, there are the head-scratching demographics laid out during the call. HBO Max was described as male-skewing versus Discoverys female-skew, raising questions (and sparking many a meme) of how much the company understands its audience, and who exactly fits into these binaries they measure.

With cuts likely, its easy to fear queer content will be the first to go, especially when unscripted home renovation and dating shows are relatively cheap to produce. If Discovery decides to minimize HBO Maxs original content and double down on shows about couples who hate each other buying split-level houses, thats an affront to the brand it bought. We want to see Ava continue bumbling awkwardly on Hacks. We want to follow Leightons coming-out journey on The Sex Lives of College Girls. And we fought too hard not to devote a half-hour to Cary sending accidental hole pics on The Other Two.

Without these stories, the television industry will suffer a great loss. And the trust many queer people have put on HBO Max will dissipate.

So, if Warner Bros. Discovery executives happen to be perusing this article, heres a message: preserve HBO Max. Take pride in being a television service so many queer people find safety and comfort in, and keep producing the shows that helped make the service such a runaway success.
Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance, Jr. has convened a grand jury to hear evidence of potential financial malfeasance by former President Donald Trump and the Trump Organization, according to a report by the Washington Post. The news of the grand jury comes after an announcement by the New York attorney generals office that its civil probe of the Trump Organization has turned into a criminal one.

Given that Trump has already hinted towards a 2024 re-election bid, the possibility of criminal charges opens up the door for Trump to be running a presidential campaign from behind barsand for the slew of complications that can arise from doing that.

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So, how difficult is it for an incarcerated person to run for president? Not very, at least from a legal standpoint.

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When were talking about federal office, the limitations would really be political, not legal, said Kate Shaw, a professor of law at Cardozo Law. The Constitution actually is really clear about what the qualifications to run for president, or a member of Congress or Senate are.

Those qualificationslisted in Article Two of the Constitutioninclude being a natural born citizen, being at least 35 years old, and having lived at least 14 years as a resident of the United States. A potential candidates carceral status, however, is not listed in the Constitution as a requirement, nor is a candidates criminal record. A Trump who has been convicted by the state or federal government of a crime, then, is equally qualified to run as a Trump with no criminal recordat least from a legal standpoint.

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Furthermore, a state that tries to add a requirement to the presidency disqualifying candidates with criminal convictions from running would likely be shut down by the courts. That was the case in 2019, when the California Supreme Court ruled that a California law requiring presidential candidates to disclose their tax returns in order to be eligible to run for presidenta direct challenge to President Trumps refusal to make public his own returnswas unconstitutional.

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Trump could have been barred from running for any federal office, including president, if he had been convicted in one of his two impeachment trials. He was acquitted in both on the basis of his support among Republican Senators. A conviction for a state or federal crime offers no such burden.

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Indeed, at least three incarcerated people have run for U.S. president before with no legal obstacles. In 1920, Socialist Party leader Eugene V. Debs ran while incarcerated for charges related to his protesting against World War I. Another candidate, Lyndon LaRouche, ran in 1992 while incarcerated for tax evasion and mail fraud. And yet another, Keith Judd, managed to be included on the ballotand win 41 percent of the vote against incumbent president Barack Obamain West Virginias Democratic primary while incarcerated as recently as 2012. While all three candidates ran multiple times, none ever won any electoral votes.

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The difficulty for a Trump re-election bid, if he were to be convicted of a crime, comes instead from public perception and the politics of running for president with a criminal record, plus the logistical obstacles of campaigning or taking the oath of office from prison. Conviction seems unlikely to cost him support among the GOP primary electorate, with a recent poll showing that 66 percent of Republicans want him to run again in 2024 despite his well-publicized legal woes.

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His supporters will argue that both impeachment and indictment are very politicized actions, said Mildred Elizabeth Sanders, a professor of government at Cornell University.

If anything, Trumps potential incarceration could be used to further ignite his self-proclaimed status as a victim of what he calls the greatest Witch Hunt in American history. If that were the case, he wouldnt be the first presidential candidate to use his incarceration for political gain. Debs did something similar when running from prison in 1920.

When Debs ran as a Socialist Party candidate, he featured his conviction and incarceration as part of his political strategy, said Lisa Marshall Manheim, a professor at the University of Washington School of Law. For example, his campaign handed out buttons referring to Debs as Convict No. 9653.

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Trump has already primed the ground for such a campaign, if it becomes necessary, taking to his personal blog (hes still banned from Twitter and Facebook) to call the grand jury seating both purely political and highly partisan.

If Trump were to somehow win reelection after being convicted of any crime, it would be unrealistic to expect that he can govern from behind bars, according to Shaw. According to the Constitution, a president must be able to perform the executive duties vested on them by the governmentduties which would be extremely difficult to perform under the constraints that come with being incarcerated.

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In that instance, Shaw outlines three options: Trump could be impeached again, the Cabinet could initiate 25th amendment proceedings to remove Trump from office, or Trump could present the case to the courts that his sentence must be suspended until after his term in office.*

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In other words, Shaw said, The powers of the presidency would have to give, or the states criminal authority would have to give.

In the meantime, the decision on whether Trump will pursue re-election from behind bars is up, in part, to the grand jury, which will reportedly be meeting weekly for the next six months to hear evidence from the Trump investigation before deciding on whether or not to indict the former president. If they choose to indict, Trump would become the first U.S. president to be charged with a crime.
Donald Trumps residence in Florida was raided by the FBI on Monday! Thats crazy.

Reactions are very frothy and !!!! across the political spectrum.

Im no Trump fan. I want him as far away from the White House as possible. But a fundamental part of his appeal has been that its him against a corrupt government establishment. This raid strengthens that case for millions of Americans who will see this as unjust persecution.  Andrew Yang (@AndrewYang) August 9, 2022

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If the FBI can raid a U.S. President, imagine what they can do to you.  Rep. Elise Stefanik (@RepStefanik) August 9, 2022

None of you has the slightest clue how bad this is gonna get.  Damon Linker (@DamonLinker) August 9, 2022

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Given that the raid happened one day ago, is it perhaps premature for everyone involved (except maybe Trump) to be freaking out so much? Lets run through what we knowand what we dont.

Why did the FBI raid Trumps residence at Mar-a-Lago?

In January 2022, the National Archives (a so-called independent agency of the government) retrieved 15 boxes of materials that Trump had taken from the White House to Florida in apparent violation of rules regarding the preservation of presidential records. In February, the Archivist of the United States (fancy title!) wrote in a letter to the House Oversight Committee that some classified material was included in those boxes. The New York Times reported in May that a grand jury had begun investigating whether any of this material had been illegally mishandled, and further reported this week that Mondays search, according to one source, was at least in part for whether any records remained at the club. An attorney representing Trump has told the press that agents carrying out the search seized an unspecified number of documents. The Wall Street Journal reports that roughly 10 more boxes were taken.

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Shouldnt there be some sort of warrant that describes what the FBI was looking for and why that material might constitute evidence of a crime?

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Yes. At this point, Trump (or his representatives), the FBI, and the judge who approved the search would all have seen this document.

Do any of them have to release it?

No! At least, not until theres some sort of indictment.

Classified materialthat could be a lot of things, right? Satellite photos of Brazilian naval installations and whatnot? Not necessarily anything that incriminated Trump in any crime except putting classified material in a non-secure location?

Correct.

Is that kind of thing really worth raiding someones home over?

This is the big question. Keeping classified information in your possession after leaving your government job is unmistakably a crime, and there is precedent for prosecuting high-level officials who have done so. But if this were the only thing Trump was ever prosecuted for, it would be, as we say in the industry, a bit of a snoozeburger.

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So, what else might it be?

One thing that happened at the end of Donald Trumps term, right before he moved to Mar-a-Lago with (apparently) some classified documents, was that he and a number of people close to him tried to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Many of the elements of that effort have become subject to congressional scrutiny and possible criminal prosecution. It stands to reason that some of the documents that Trump kept in his possession could be related to Jan. 6 and the buildup to it, and that those could incriminate him or someone else.

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If the FBI found evidence of other crimes besides classified-material mishandling in the material it seized, could Trump be prosecuted using that evidence?

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Yes. In the words of former IRS criminal investigator Martin J. Sheil, once the search warrant is approved and executed should evidence of other federal crimes be found that evidence can be used to prosecute additional crimes not just the criminal behavior alluded to in the affidavit.

What other crimes could Trump have been involved in?

During his presidency and in the years prior, Trump has been formally accused (sometimes in civil court) or described in news reports as having possibly committed tax evasion, embezzled charitable donations, defrauded customers at his University, abetted money laundering, violated campaign finance laws to suppress evidence of a personal affair, communicated indirectly with Russian figures involved in the effort to sabotage Hillary Clintons presidential campaign, obstructed justice in that case and others, and withheld weapons from Ukraine unless its government made unfounded accusations against Joe Biden. As mentioned, he also plotted a coup against the administration that was in the process of taking over from his own. There could be more that we are forgetting as well.

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Has anyone, even a source speaking anonymously to a reporter, said that documents related to Jan. 6 or other crimes were found or sought during Mondays search?

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As far as we know of, no. The Wall Street Journal, citing people familiar with the investigation into the classified document issue, reported that Mondays search is separate from the [Department of Justices] Jan. 6 investigation. It moreover reported, like the Times, that the search was carried out in part because of authorities belief that not all of the classified material in Trumps possession had been turned over in January 2022.

That in part could mean a lot, huh?

Yes. Or a little! Maybe the other part is because they wanted to check some detail about storage conditions that Trumps representatives had given them earlier. (CNN reports that federal officials met with Trump attorneys at Mar-a-Lago in June to discuss the classified-documents issue.) Who knows? Certainly not us, the public, at this point.

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Rudy Giulianis apartment was raided a while ago. He was also involved in the Jan. 6 case. What came of that?

Nothing, apparently. Last week NBC News reported that Giuliani, Trumps former attorney, has been given back phones that were taken in that raid, which was related to his work on Trumps behalf regarding Ukraine. NBC News further reported that he was unlikely to face charges.

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How long did it take to get to that outcome?

Giulianis apartment was raided in May 2021, so more than a year.

Arent there other Trump-associated people who have been subject to raids?



Yes, Trumps former attorney Michael Cohen had his office raided in 2018.

Right! Right right right. Seems like a bit of a problem for his legal team.

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That wasnt phrased as a question, but yes.

Remind me, what happened there?

Cohen pled guilty to making illegal hush money payments on behalf of Trump during the 2016 campaign to women who Trump had reportedly had affairs with, directly implicating the then-president.

How long was it after the raid before we reached the outcome in that case?



Four months. But thats because Cohen was a cooperating witness. It seems almost certain that Donald Trump very much will not be.

If the Department of Justice, of which the FBI is a part, ultimately decides not to prosecute Trump for mishandling documents or any other crime, do they have to explain what they found in the raid and why they decided not to prosecute?

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No.

Whos the FBI director who ordered this escalation, anyway? Someone appointed by one of Trumps political enemies?

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It is lifelong Republican and Donald Trump appointee Christopher Wray.

Is there any evidence the raid was politically motivated?

No.

Is this going to cause a backlash that leads to Trumps election in 2024?

We find it unlikely. Polls, like this one from 2019 and this one from 2020 and this one from 2022, have found that if you ask Americans whether they think Trump did something criminal or unethical, a majority of them, sometimes as many as 60-plus percent, will say that he did. The electorate as a whole also already believes, by a wide margin, that he is not honest and trustworthy. Investigating Trump has typically been a politically safe thing to do, even if it does not always lead to a cathartic judgment of responsibility and a delicious reckoning with consequences.

Whats going to happen next in this case?

I dont know.

Is that it?

[Is already on the porch cracking a cold Coors Light.]
The immediate GOP response to Monday evenings FBI search for documents at Mar-a-Lago is almost as revealing as the search warrant itself.

Having witnessed the bulk of the party harden its commitment to protecting Trump at any cost after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, nobody should be shocked to learn that ranking Republicanswithout any information about what was seized, or whywere willing to stake their political careers on the claim that it was a lawless, partisan raid. The darkest versions of these claims called for doing away with federal law enforcement altogether.

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[Read: What we know about the Mar-a-Lago FBI raid.]

Back when Robert Mueller was investigating the connection between the Trump campaign and the 2016 electionelements of which have now been confirmed by Paul Manafortthe GOP seized comfortably on Trumps claims of a witch hunt and the Deep State as a way to obscure the many troubling findings in the final report, including clear connections between his 2016 campaign and Russian efforts at election manipulation, as well as multiple uncharged instances of what seemed to be obstruction of justice. Trumps then-Attorney General, Bill Barr, led the charge in confusing and distorting the Mueller Report findings in ways that reinforced the idea that a partisan political investigation (spearheaded by anti-Trump, deep state forces), had singled out a beloved and popular President for after-the-fact persecution.

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Even after the singular horror of January 2021s insurrection, Republicans like Kevin McCarthy, fell in line, even though he had initially told fellow Republicans this on the day of Jan. 6:

When they started breaking into my office, myself and the staff got removed from the office. In doing so, I made a phone call to the president telling him what was going on, asking him to tell these people to stop, to make a video and go out. I was very intense and very loud about it. We cannot just sweep this under the rug. We need to know why it happened, who did it, and people need to be held accountable for it. And Im committed to making sure that happens.

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Somehow, though, by the time the Jan. 6 special committee was being convened, McCarthy was fully onboard with the notion that it was not a valid investigation and that he had no obligation to comply with subpoenas. With the search of Mar-a-Lago this week, McCarthy has skipped that vexing middle step: No need to wait to learn the facts! Just issue a pronouncement.

Ive seen enough, McCarthy tweeted hours after Trump confirmed that the search warrant had been executed. The DOJs actions, he wrote, were proof of an intolerable state of weaponized politicization. He warned Attorney General Merrick Garland to preserve your documents and clear your calendar. (No matter that the DOJ, without discussion with the White House, had persuaded a federal judge there was probable cause to believe a crime had been committed, and to grant a warrant to search Trumps residence.)

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Rep. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), picked up on the same theme: Hunter Biden skates free while DOJ executes a political plot to destroy lives of political opponents, he tweeted. This is un-American and @Jim_Jordan led Judiciary Committee hearings in January cant come soon enough!

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Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), tweeted that he wanted to scrutinize the viability of federal law enforcement going forward. And here is the Chairman of the Texas Republican Party, tweeting abolish the FBI.

Abolish the FBI.  Matt Rinaldi (@MattRinaldiTX) August 9, 2022

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Another strand of GOP Twitter went further, denouncing a dark, fever dream-like fantasy of a coming Garland-led police state. Bob Good, (R-VA), wrote on Twitter: The continued weaponization of the federal government against its citizens and political opponents continues under the Biden/Garland march toward a police state. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) tweeted that, If youre a Republican with any kind of voice, and not speaking up for President Trump tonight dont expect any of us to speak up for you when your time comes.

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A tweet from the Texas GOP compared the U.S. to a banana republic:

Biden has crossed the Rubicon. If there was any doubt remaining, we are now living in a post constitutional America where the Justice Department has been weaponized against political threats to the regime, as it would in a banana republic. It wont stop with Trump. You are next.  Texas GOP (@TexasGOP) August 9, 2022

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Marco Rubio chose to blame Biden personally. His tweet is both incomprehensible and one for the ages: Biden is playing with fire by using a document dispute to get the @TheJusticeDept to persecute a likely future election opponent Because one day what goes around is going to come around And then we become Nicaragua under Ortega.

Setting aside the fact that the FBI is directed by Christopher Wray, whom Trump himself appointed, the specter of a renegade federal law enforcement system weaponized against law-abiding Americans is thus being deployed right now by GOP leaders in order to (at best) encourage a red wave in November, and (of course) to fundraise for the same.

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But this will have collateral consequences. The chilling argument that former presidents are simply above the law, and that law enforcement exists only to take out the little people, is also laced throughout this critique.

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Its textbook authoritarianism, sure, but its also a formula that has helped Trump elide accountability in the past. Thats the strain of this that has already made its way into the larger Q-Anon/self-help community online, which was immediately fired up on Monday night to near pre-insurrection levels of vigilantism and paranoia. Crowds gathered at Mar-a-Lago seem to believe law enforcement and the press are in on the deep stating: As Ben Collins tweeted: The posts on these pro-Trump forums tonight are as violent as Ive seen them since before January 6th. Maybe even moreso.

Like the events of January 6, whether this discourse turns into a violent powder keg will be down to Trump, again, who broke the news about the raid using the same old terms and charges most likely to foster furious reaction in his listeners. He told followers that his beautiful home was under siege, raided and occupied and warned yet again about the weaponization of the Justice system while insisting that such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries.

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Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before. They even broke into my safe! he wrote. Again, no mention of Wray, of a federal warrant, of a federal judge, or of probable cause. (Not that we could have expected that.) But in this narrative, policing exists to punish the lowly. Anything else is a witch hunt against an untouchable, regardless of the form that police power takes.

Recall that this is a Republican party that called for years to lock her upwanting Hillary Clinton to be jailed, without charges, for nonexistent crimes, never charged or proven. Yet today we are on the brink of becoming a banana republic because a lawfully executed warrant was lawfully executed?

Monday nights raid and the political discussion around it will now inform not merely the terms of the November 2024 election, the impacts of the Jan. 6 investigation, and the public perception on the Garland Justice Department for the foreseeable future. It may also determine just how quickly years of deeply politicized debate over accountability for criminal actions by powerful Republicans can tilt into violence and chaos.
When former President Donald Trump shared the news Monday night that the FBI had raided his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida, his statement contained one particularly intriguing detail amid the expected complaints about corruption and prosecutorial misconduct: They even broke into my safe!

While we cant know for sure that the FBI did indeed break into Trumps safethe agency has not confirmed the details of Trumps accountthe notion made speculation irresistible. What kinds of things could Trump have hidden away in a locked safe? Is it possible he was hiding some of the classified documents the FBI was reportedly looking into?

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The reality is we dont know. Eric Trump, speaking on Sean Hannitys Fox News show Monday night, insisted that Trump didnt even have anything in the safe. The network, citing a source familiar with the events, also reported that there was nothing in it.

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Still, the elder Trumps dramatic-sounding claim left us with another question: How exactly does the FBI break into a safe?

According to experts, the answer depends on what kind of safe Trump had. All we know on that front is that the same Fox report said it was a relatively new safe. A former Trump staffer told Olivia Nuzzi at New York magazine that they had at one point seen a safe that had been pulled out from Trumps bedroom or office during a renovation. It wasnt like a huge one from old western movies, the source told her. I dont know, black? Silver? I saw it for a second, it registered in my brain, and I was on my way.

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According to Charlie Santore, a Los Angeles-based safe technician whom the Atlantic once deemed the safecracker of last resort, there are hundreds of safe manufacturers making thousands of different kinds of safes. We dont even know for sure whether Trump was referring to a safe or a vault.

But what we can do is speculate. When places are getting raided, a lot of times theyll acquiesce, and theyll open it, Santore said. The safe might get damaged, so they weigh: If its a $20,000 safeor in some cases, theyre $100,000 luxury safessomebodys going to get into it anyway, whether they drill in or not.

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Santore guessed that, whatever make he had, Trumps safe would probably be expensive. Not everyone agrees. Knowing Trump, Im sure its a cheap, imported piece of junk, all glitzed out in imitation 23.5 carat fools gold to at least LOOK expensive, Dave McOmie, a professional safecracker famous in the industry for handling difficult cases, wrote in an email. Such safes almost fall open when stared at by a working pro. (McOmies own C.V. includes prying open the vault where Prince kept his unreleased recordings following the pop artists death.)

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Santores best guess is that when the FBI arrived, an employee at the site made a phone call and was told to just open the safe to save the expense. Trump may have simply exaggerated when he talked about breaking into the safe. But then again, maybe not: Maybe they said, No, fuck you, drill it open. Were not opening it for you. I dont know, Santore mused. With the personalities involved, who knows.

Fox News did report a safe cracker was brought in and cracked the safe. So assuming the FBI did have to forcefully break the safe open, there are a few ways it could have gone. Safes are often drilled open, which sounds more invasive than it is, Santore said. Its usually like arthroscopic surgery. Theres different weak points in different locks.

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Safes can also be pried open with the right force. Or, if the lock was electronic, Santore said, certain law enforcement agencies have high-tech tools that can open the locks quickly and without damage. (Explosives, he said, are pretty much only for fictional movie heists.)

There is another major difference between a law enforcement operation and a standard safe-cracking: Regular technicians typically try not to damage safes. The FBI, on the other hand, may not care about anything other than acting quickly and safely retrieving the contents. So while a technician might use an auto-dialer for a clienta process that could take a dozen hours or sothe FBI is more likely to have used a heavy-duty coring saw and simply cut the side of the safe off.

Thats usually done to cause as much damage as possible, Santore said. That wouldnt surprise me if they did a heavy-handed approach in this instance because of how tense everything has been.
At around 7 p.m., on a hot Monday evening (its hot where you are, right?), former President Donald Trump announced that the FBI had raided his beautiful home, Mar-a-Lago, in Palm Beach. The premises, he wrote in a statement, was currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents.

The FBI had not confirmed (or denied!) this news as of publication time.

According to the New York Times, the raid appeared to be related to classified documents that Trump brought from the White House. The Times also noted that the Justice Department is currently investigating Trump over his decision to move 15 boxes of documentssome classifiedto Mar-a-Lago, in violation of federal records laws. The U.S. National Archives and Records Administration regained possession of the boxes in February.

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The news of the raid was first reported by Peter Schorsch, the publisher of Florida Politics, a news organization that closely covers congressional and down ballot races in the state. In a phone call with Slate, Schorsch said that he had heard about the FBI raid of Mar-a-Lago from a longtime source in Republican politics who has a law enforcement background and knew a lot about south Florida law enforcement.

When Schorsch reached out to another sourcesomeone who would have intimate knowledge of Trumps whereabouts and goings-on of his inner circlehe said that Trumps people were still playing catch-up. The Trump camp put out a statement at 6:45 p.m. confirming the raid, leading with the line, These are dark times for our Nation.

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Schorsch said his source told him that the FBI agents had left Mar-a-Lago around 6 p.m. ET, but had been there since the morning.

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Schorschs organization, Florida Politics, covers campaigns, elections, government, policy, and lobbying in Floridamaking it the place that most lawmakers go to for their information, as Schorsch put it.

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The full statement from Trump was:
A few hours before Mondays news flash about the FBIs raid on Mar-a-lago, and just when we thought wed already absorbed all the leaks and scoops about Donald Trump that your mind could absorb, along came another round of eye-blinkers, these from a book by Susan Glasser and Peter Baker excerpted in this weeks New Yorker.

The highlights: Trump screamed at his generals (he addressed them as you fucking generals) for not being totally loyal to him, like the German generals were to Hitler. While planning a military parade (which wound up never happening), he told his staff he didnt want any injured soldiers to take part, saying, It doesnt look good for me. After firing a few of his top aides, whod occasionally talked back to his orders, Trump said, I dont give a shit anymore, I want a yes-man.

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But most of the excerpt is given over to a glorification of Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who is portrayed as the main source of resistance to Trumps assault on American democracy. Weve seen this before, in Peril, the final volume of Bob Woodwards Trump trilogy (co-authored by Robert Costa). The account by Glasser and Baker is more credible, in that they quote reliable witnessesformer defense secretary Robert Gates, Rep. Adam Smith, and Sen. Angus Kingconfirming key aspects of Milleys tale. (Woodward never identifies sources, but Milley is clearly the source of his stories about Milley; most of his books heroes are the characters who cooperate with him most fully.)

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Still, much about the Glasser-Baker portrait of Milley raises questions as well. (They may be raised and answered in their full book, The Divider, which is out Sept. 20 and which I havent yet read.)

In the Woodward-Costa book, Milley takes credit for taking unusual, even subversive, steps to ensure that Trump couldnt launch a nuclear strike without consulting him firstand for phoning his Chinese counterpart to calm fears during a particularly tense moment. But in fact, he did nothing to alter normal nuclear-launch procedures, and it was Secretary of Defense Mark Esper who (appropriately) made the crucial call to Beijing. (Click here for the details.)

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The most remarkable item in the Glasser-Baker portrait is the full reproduction of a long letter of resignation that Milley wrote a week after Trumps June 1, 2020, photo op outside the church on Lafayette Square, after Black Lives Matter protesters had just been violently removed by national guard and federal officers. Its a harsh letter. Among the harshest passages:

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I can no longer faithfully support and execute your orders you [are] doing great and irreparable harm to my country you have made a concerted effort over time to politicize the United States militaryto create fear in the minds of the people you dont hold those values dear to the cause that I serve youre ruining the international order and causing significant damage to our country overseas In fact, you subscribe to many of the principles that we fight against.

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But heres the thing: Milley never sent this letter. In fact, Glasser and Baker note that this was merely one of several drafts of a resignation letterthe others were shorter (and, I would guess, less contentious). Had he resigned, would he have sent this one? Given the reluctance of many officersactive-duty or retiredto reproach the commander-in-chief in public, and given the paucity of evidence that Milley ever confronted Trump so directly in private, I doubt it. This was probably his getting-it-out-of-my-system draftmeant to be saved for the personal files, then deleted.

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Milleys turn against Trump isnt pure fantasy. He did deliver an honorable commencement speech at the National Defense University on June 20, apologizing for being at the photo op, supporting peaceful protest (which Trump wanted to put down with bullets), touting the militarys apolitical creed, and urging the graduates to embrace the Constitution. (I was surprised at the timeMilley probably was toothat Trump didnt fire him for that.)

Glasser and Baker also quote a few sources, on the record, who recall Milley asking their advice, around this time, on whether he should resign. The most cogent advice came from former Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who told him not to resign unless he could bring the entire Joint Chiefs of Staff along with: Milley resigning would be a one-day story, but all of the top generals and admirals threatening to quitthat would be a potent way to sway Trump away from craziness at a dangerous moment. We have heard in the January 6 hearings that Trumps legal advisers lined up their pins in precisely this waygetting the pledge of every assistant attorney general to resign en masse if Trump replaced acting attorney general Jeffrey Rosen with his minion, Jeffrey Clark. But a question remains: Did Milley try to sway the other chiefs to mount a similar rebellion in a moment of severe crisis? If so, its not reported here.

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Theres a common tendency among senior U.S. officials to stay at their job, even in compromising situations, on the grounds that any successor would make matters worse. Sometimes theyre right; more often, theyre exaggerating their own importance or making excuses not to resign in protest, a step that could hurt them by making them seem like less than team players in subsequent job-hunts. Which was true of Milley? He and Esper seem to have boosted each others morale through daily pep talks and whatever collusions they could manage. But what effect did they have? Its unclear. Esper was eventually fired for disputing Trump too often. Milley had little sway within the White House and was distrusted by the leadership on Capitol Hill. Would he have had more impact, had he resigned and signed the long, brutal resignation letter?

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It is, in some ways, annoying to watch so many of Trumps former aides testifying at the January 6 hearings about his horrible misdeeds. Where were they when the nation needed them, back before the election or during Trumps second impeachment trial? Many of these come-lately heroes would have remained quiet, had they not been subpoenaed. Several of them would probably still be working for Trump if he had won the election.

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Milley was, and is, in a tougher spot than those other officials. U.S. military officers abide by a firm ethos of civilian control. They are taught to obey all lawful orders and are reluctant to make judgments for themselves on which orders might be unlawful. Orders from the commander-in-chief are particularly sacrosanct. Article 88 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice makes it a crime, punishable by court-martial, for an officer to say, publish, or circulate contemptuous words toward the president (and several other top officials), even if those words are true. Very few officers have been tried for this offense; and the militarys Manual for Courts-Martial notes that mere adverse criticism of the president, in the course of a political discussion, is exempt from Article 88. Still, military culture and military law stiffen an officers hesitation to steer clear of political rebellionand for good reason.

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Nonetheless, Milley is now working overtime to dissociate himself from Trump as much as possible and thus rehabilitate his reputation. At least Milley did speak out a bit, to the degree he felt he could, while still on his job. Glasser and Baker pour heaps of scorn on Mike Pompeo, Trumps secretary of state, for not attempting to do the same. Pompeo acted like a lapdog on the job, serving as Trumps mouthpiece, letting foreign service officers suffer under Trumps thumb, remotely delivering a speech for the 2020 Republican National Convention from the U.S. embassy in Israel, and amid Trumps charges of a stolen election saying, There will be a smooth transitionto a second Trump administration. Now he tries to tell Glasser and Baker that he worked, often alongside Milley and Esper, to counter the crazies who had taken over the White House. Maybe he did, but his failure to speak out publiclyeither then or nowis particularly appalling.

Still, judging from the excerpt, the Glasser-Baker book is probably a good read. Then, of course, Maggie Haberman, the most seasoned Trump chronicler, has her 600-page tome, Confidence Man, coming out in October. And as the Trump scandal machine keeps churningthe Jan 6 revelations, the Mar-A-Lago raid this week, who knows what curveball next weekall of these authors will need to write afterwords, if not wholly revised chapters, for the paperback editions.
Groupon is laying off 500 employees, or nearly 15% of its global workforce, as the struggling Chicago-based online marketplace seeks to cut costs amid falling revenues.

The total includes 293 positions associated with the headquarters at 600 W. Chicago Ave., although many employees are working remotely, Groupon spokesman Nick Halliwell said Monday evening.

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The company saw a 42% decline in revenue and a $90 million loss during the second quarter, according to an earnings report Monday. The weaker than expected results prompted Groupon to implement a $150 million cost-cutting strategy that includes rationalizing its real estate footprint, transitioning to a self-service merchant sales platform and reducing the size of its technology and sales teams.

Groupon CEO Kedar Deshpande sent a letter to employees Monday outlining plans to streamline the cost structure, including the difficult to digest news of the impending layoffs.

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Put simply, our cost structure and our performance are not aligned, Deshpande said in the employee letter, which was obtained by the Tribune. In order to position Groupon to successfully execute our turnaround plan, we have to lower our cost structure.

Groupon had 3,416 employees at the end of the second quarter, including nearly 1,100 based out of the Chicago headquarters, according to Halliwell. The company had more than 11,000 employees worldwide at its peak in 2012.

In addition to the layoffs and other cost-cutting measures, Groupon is closing its Australian Goods business, which runs on a different platform than the rest of the Groupon Goods business, making it too costly and complex to manage on an ongoing basis, Deshpande said in the letter.

The former CEO of Zappos, Deshpande joined Groupon in December as the company, hard-hit by the pandemic, saw its 2021 annual revenue fall by more than 56% from 2019, according to financial filings.

During a conference call Tuesday, Deshpande said the company also needs to bolster its online marketplace to drive more frequent purchases and improve customer retention. The strategy includes increasing inventory, weeding out merchants with high refund rates and a better selection of everyday services and experiences.

Once the face of Chicagos tech startup scene, Groupon has been in decline for much of the past decade.

Google tried to buy Groupon for $6 billion in 2010, but investors and co-founder Andrew Mason said no deal. By spring 2011, Groupon was valued at $25 billion, and the company went public in the fall, raising $700 million in the largest tech initial public offering since Google.

The current market capitalization is about $415 million.

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Launched in 2008, Groupon created its own e-commerce niche with heavily discounted daily deals on everything from manicures to meals, blasted out to subscribers via email. The business model subsequently expanded to include stocking and shipping products through the Goods platform, which put it in direct competition with online retail giant Amazon.

The company has since shifted exclusively to a third-party business model and now promotes itself as an online local marketplace where consumers go to buy services and experiences. Recent Chicago-area offerings include a Chicago River boat tour, discounts on Krispy Kreme doughnuts in Homewood and a pole dancing class in Aurora.

Deshpande said Groupon needs to improve the breadth and depth of inventory for local experiences.

Our inventory intensity efforts will be led by a focus on getting customers what they are looking for, more frequently, and not just generating margin, Deshpande said Tuesday. For example, we wont direct our sales team to add a fourth or fifth massage in any given area, but instead have been focused on acquiring inventory, where we dont have adequate coverage. This may be inventory that customers use in their daily life, such as haircuts, car washes or even a trampoline park.

As Groupon improves its online offerings, the company also plans to increase its marketing efforts to expand its customer base.

The companys history with advertising has been a cautionary tale.

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Groupon was still a high-flying startup when it aired its first Super Bowl ad in February 2011  four months before the company filed for its IPO.

The irreverent spot  a faux public service announcement for the endangered Tibetan people that shifted to a deal on fish curry  landed with a thud, precipitating a downward spiral that led to a rapid decline in valuation, the 2013 ouster of CEO Mason and a series of shifts in the business model.

In 2018, Groupon returned to the Big Game with a new TV ad featuring actress Tiffany Haddish, and a renewed focus on its daily deals roots, but the company has been relatively quiet during its pandemic decline.

In the second quarter, Groupon generated global revenue of $153 million, down from $206 million during the same period last year. The company had projected $670 million to $700 million in revenue for 2022, but withdrew its full-year guidance Monday because of the turnaround strategy and the uncertain macroeconomic environment, according to earnings reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Deshpande said in his letter that the vast majority of the cost-cutting actions would happen this year. The company projects reaching $150 million in annual cost savings by the end of 2023, with two-thirds coming from reductions in payroll.

The remaining cost savings will come through a combination of process improvements and the right-sizing of our facilities footprint to reflect our new hybrid work environment, Deshpande said.

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Groupon moved into its River North headquarters at 600 West Chicago Ave. in 2010, and remains one the largest tenants at the former Montgomery Ward catalog warehouse. Its lease runs through January 2026, but Groupon has already subleased a portion of the space to Uptake, and has listed much of the rest for sublease as well.

Departing employees were notified Monday, with some asked to stay on for a period of time to assist with the transition, according to the letter. Where possible, they will be given the option to keep their laptops, avail themselves of outplacement services and submit their information to a Groupon talent list to be posted on LinkedIn.

Details on severance packages were not disclosed.

rchannick@chicagotribune.com
This article was adapted from the Aug. 4 edition of the Border Chronicle. Subscribe to the Border Chronicle here.

Today, most travelers entering the U.S. have to undergo this weird thing: After officials take a headshot, software determines the geography of your face, including the distance between your eyes, the distance from your forehead to chin, and different facial landmarks. Your facial signature then becomes a mathematical formula that can be compared to a database of tens of millions (hundreds of millions?) of known facesor, if you are crossing the border, with your visa, passport, or even drivers license photo.

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Sounds like this has the potential to be creepy, right? Well, to set the record straight, House Homeland Security Committee member Clay Higgins, a Republican from Louisiana, argued before Congress in July that its just fine, just a matter of convenience.

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The image that has been presented to the citizens that we serve is that this is some sort of nefarious technology and big brother is watching you, the congressman said. But really its using photographic images that travelers willingly have provided, or are available on their passports or visas, or drivers licenses. We already have that information.

As Higgins spoke during a hearing titled Assessing CBPs Use of Facial Recognition Technology, he looked at Daniel Tanciar, the chief innovation officer of Pangiam, a company founded in 2020 that aims to revolutionize the future of operations, security, and safety at airports, seaports, and land border crossings through the use of emerging technologies. This company works with Customs and Border Protection on its sweeping, unprecedented deployment of facial recognition technology. That Pangiam is in the mix on this shouldnt be a surprise. The companys CEO is former CBP Commissioner Kevin McAleenan. If you dont remember, he was the guy in charge of border enforcement when agents were tearing apart families in 2018.

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Higgins stressed the efficiency and convenience of this expanding technology, which is affecting more and more people. It just speeds up the travelers passage through the security checkpoint, he said.

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At the International Summit on Borders that I attended in D.C. in June 2018, there was a panel titled The Border Force Officer of the Future. I was taken aback when one of the panels participants, an immigration official from Canada, said that with the direction of global border control, The face that God gave you the day you were born will be your passport.

Though chilling, this seemed far-fetched. Four years later, however, I see that I did not realize how fast it was all arriving, fueled by the public-private partnership exemplified by Higgins and Tanciara partnership that is powerful yet hidden. Not once at the hearing was Tanciar asked about his financial stake in the facial recognition system he was promoting. In his testimony, Tanciar gushed that over 100 million travelers have been successfully processed by CBPs use of this technology. While there are always improvements that can be made, CBP has implemented a well-performing program that meets the congressional biometric mandate while maintaining privacy, civil liberties, and data security.

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Facial recognition has become the primary biometric technology for CBP. Everyone who enters the country has their picture taken, though supposedly people can opt out (that often isnt obvious, thanks to a lack of signage; I cross the border constantly and have never seen anything about opting out). The surveillance technology has also been deployed at 32 airports for people exiting the country. CBP partners with airports and airlines to add another layer to this private-public nexus.

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During the hearing, Rebecca Gambler of the Government Accountability Office testified that CBP is in the early stages of pilot testing the technology for other areas of the land environment. She did not give details about what that means. According to internal documents, during previous secretive tests of facial recognition in Arizona and Texas, authorities obtained a massive amount of data, including images of people leaving for work, picking up children from school, and carrying out other daily routines. And DHS has called for companies to develop medium-sized drones with facial recognition cameras.

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Market forecasts, such as this one from Grand View Research, predict that the global facial recognition market will nearly triple its worth in seven yearsfrom $4.45 billion in 2021 to $12 billion in 2028. As GVR explains, The market for facial recognition technology is growing enormously.  From its application in social media and mobile technology to security applications at airports, law enforcement, and targeted marketing campaigns, the deployment of facial recognition technology is inevitably part of our future.

There were, however, witnesses at the July hearing, such as Jeramie Scott of the Electronic Privacy Information Center, who were not so keen on a future of constant techno-surveillance. In his testimony, Scott described facial recognition as a dangerous surveillance technology and said it poses serious threats to our privacy and civil liberties.

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And Jesse Franzblau, senior policy analyst at the National Immigrant Justice Center, told me:

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CBP uses the technology heavily to track migrants along both sides of the U.S. southern and northern borders, and employs the technology at U.S. international and foreign airports, subjecting travelers to dangerous tools that sweep up massive data into U.S. databases with little scrutiny. The technology has an inherent racial, gender, and age bias, compounding existing discriminatory practices common among CBP and ICE agents.

Facial recognition is but one component of a much larger border apparatus composed of walls, drones, armed agents, jails, and an expulsion system that regularly separates family members. It is difficult to separate the one from the other.

Franzblau also zoomed in on the border-industrial complex and stressed that it is vital for members of Congress to closely examine the link between DHS employees and the surveillance tech industry. The revolving door between DHS officials and companies that benefit from the surveillance tech contracts fuels a toxic cycle of policy choices driven by profit over humanity.

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These links went undiscussed at the July hearing. Higgins did, however, ask what happens if the recognition technology makes an error. And if for some reason [a travelers] image is not recognized or flagged with a false identity, they are pulled out of the line and go through a normal check of a human being. Is that correct? he asked Tanciar.

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Yes, that is correct, Tanciar replied. All would be fine was their consensus. Before Tanciar was hired at Pangiam in 2020, he worked at CBPs biometric entry and exit program for four years. Like his boss McAleenan, he was a living example of the revolving door, in which CBP officials pass from public institutions to private corporations with ease, and presumably grease the wheels of the contract conveyor belt.

Pangiam claims that its technologies are futureproofed, because their artificial intelligence can replicate human intuition. It can protect you, the Pangiam website says, from both todays threats and, for the first time, the threats of tomorrow. The border officer of the future is already here, and it is public and private, human and automated, dystopic, and profitable.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
Were now in a monkeypox public health emergency. And while the name seems to hint that monkeys are at fault for all this, thats far from true.

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by the very scientific-sounding name Monkeypox virus. But the name itself gives the wrong impression: people did not monkeypox from monkeys, it was just identified in monkeys first. Its still unclear what animal actually started the spread, though as far as animal transmission goes, the route of concern is rats to humans.

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More importantly, many experts argue that monkeypox, which has for decades been endemic to regions in Africaand is now seeing cases rise due to a delayed public health responsecarries a stigma. For one thing, there is a long history of Black people being referred to as monkeys, says Ifeanyi Nsofor, a public health physician and fellow at the Aspen Institute. The current name stigmatizes Black people, but in particular stigmatizes Africans.

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In July, the Commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Ashwin Vasan wrote a letter to the World Health Organization, urging them to rename the disease. Continuing to use the term monkeypox to describe the current outbreak may reignite these traumatic feelings of racism and stigma  particularly for Black people and other people of color, as well as members of the LGBTQIA+ communities, and it is possible that they may avoid engaging in vital health care services because of it, he wrote.

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The WHO previously had announced they wanted to rename the virus to try and find something more suitablean effort that seems to be stalled out, according to reporting from Helen Branswell at Stat News.

Weve seen disease names carefully chosen before. In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus that causes the disease was commonly called the Wuhan virus, a reference to where the initial outbreak began. Per WHO guidance, diseases should not be named after geographic locations or groups of people. The official name they came up with for the virus, Sars-CoV-2, was based on its genetic similarity to the virus that caused the 2003 SARS outbreak; then the disease name COVID followed from there. There have even been successes with the renaming of diseases and viruses. For example, before Downs syndrome was named as such, it was called Mongolismwhich was later dropped because it was misleading and offensive. Sin Nombre orthovantirus, was originally called Muerto Canyon hantavirus, after the location where it was found, but was changed after locals objected.

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However, renaming a disease is no easy task, especially if the disease has been around for a while. Its quite a complex process that involves international classification of diseases, multiple countries, transparency, all of which is appropriate, Tom Frieden, epidemiologist and president of Resolve to Save Lives, explained. One general problem with renaming, it seems, is that the current name is already well established in scientific literature. Switching things around could be confusing. The WHO Medical and Scientific Advisory Committee is open to changing the name of the disease, but according to Branswells writing at Stat, they have yet to receive a proposal for an alternative. So far, its looking like another committee, which handles the name for the virus itself, will settle on Orthopoxvirus monkeypox. That  doesnt seem much better!

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One solution available in the meantime is to refer to the virus and illness with letters, rather than the full name. Use the acronym MPV (short for monkeypox virus) to help reduce stigma and sensationalizing, advises a fact sheet from GLAAD. It is acceptable to use the term monkeypox on first mention for context, and then to use MPV thereafter. GLAAD also suggests MPX as an abbreviation; its in use by some doctors and writers.

If monkeypoxor maybe rather, MPXis here to stay, maybe we all ought to think about how to reduce the impact of its name. As Vasan wrote in his letter to WHO, The language we use in public health matters, and it has tangible effects on the safety of communities most at risk for poor health outcomes.words can save lives or put them at further risk.
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Christopher Shaffers adventure in a newly formed Slovakia began with a painful, early 1970s Fiat Uno car ride to Banska Bystrica, a major city in central Slovakia where he would end up teaching English for half a year.

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The owner of the flat that Shaffer would stay at during his stint, and share with Merrill, a fellow American from Colorado, picked him up at a hotel in Stupava, a town near Bratislava where a group of new English teachers took part in a weekend of orientation, and took him and Merrill to the city.

It was a cold January day.

The car broke down every 30 kilometres and we would always push it to the side, the native of Alabama recalled in a video interview with The Slovak Spectator.
People can soon bid farewell to the late Cardinal Tomko. An American has written a book about 1993 Slovakia.

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Good evening. The Tuesday, August 9 edition of Today in Slovakia is ready with the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

SaS takes pensions into its own hands

SaS MP Anna Zemanova, SaS MP Marian Viskupic, SaS chair Richard Sulik, and SaS MP Peter Cmorej announce the submission of the party's constitutional bill on pensions to the parliament at a press conference in Bratislava on August 8, 2022. (Source: TASR)

Because the government has not stepped up and submitted a constitutional bill concerning pension reform to the parliament, the SaS party decided to do it on its own.

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Members of the party put the bill forward on August 8, hoping to set the new basic rules for the management of the country's pension system, shift thousands of savers from poorly-performing bond funds in the second pillar to other funds, and make public finances more sustainable.

SaS, which has left the coalition and preparing to leave the government in a few weeks, is simultaneously largely critical of Labour Minister Milan Krajniak's set of ordinary bills in the pipeline supposed to reform the pension system.

Krajniak of the Sme Rodina party did not comment on the SaS' bill, only saying that he and Sme Rodina do not want to be dragged into the ongoing coalition conflict between the SaS and OLaNO parties.

The government promised to submit the constitutional bill in its programme declaration when it took power two years ago.

Related: The Moody's rating agency has expressed scepticism over the Slovak pension reform.

Coalition crisis: The crisis began in May and has continued since. The SaS party pulled out of the coalition deal in early July. Shortly afterwards, Finance Minister Igor Matovic of the OLaNO party suggested that the SaS wanted to bring the government down, which the party has refuted multiple times.

More stories from The Slovak Spectator website:

BUSINESS: Pixel Federation, the largest Slovak game development studio, achieved record sales during the pandemic.

Pixel Federation, the largest Slovak game development studio, achieved record sales during the pandemic. DISINFORMATION: The state banned disinformation media outlets several months ago. Today, they are back.

The state banned disinformation media outlets several months ago. Today, they are back. TRAVEL: Here are the most popular places in the Tatras.

FEATURE FOR TUESDAY

In 'Moon over Sasova', an American takes readers back to a 1993 Slovakia

Christopher Shaffer on a hike in 1996 with one of his 1993 students, Martin Vigas and his wife Monika. (Source: Courtesy of Christopher Shaffer)

In 1993, Christopher Shaffer spent several months teaching English in central Slovakia.

Almost 30 years later, Shaffer, who today works as the dean of library services at Troy University in Alabama, has published his debut book about his experience.

Titled "Moon Over Sasova: One American's Experience Teaching in Post-Cold War Slovakia", the American shares his picture of then Slovakia and the stories, including humorous ones, that he lived through with the Slovak people.

If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription. Thank you.

IN OTHER NEWS:

P ope Francis will attend Slovak Cardinal Jozef Tomko's funeral in the Vatican on Thursday, August 11. People in Slovakia can bid farewell to the cardinal on Friday and Saturday in St. Martin's Cathedral in Bratislava. His remains will then be moved to Kosice, where people can say goodbye to him on Sunday and Monday. He will be buried on Tuesday, August 16, at St. Elizabeth's Cathedral in Kosice. Tomko died on August 8.

Justice Minister Maria Kolikova (SaS) thinks Prosecutor General Maros Zilinka should make available the entire analysis on the disbanding of the far-right LSNS party, based on which he decided to not file a proposal for the dissolution of the party.

The deliveries of Russian oil through the southern branch of the Druzhba pipeline through Ukraine to Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic were stopped last week, on August 4. However, the Bratislava refinery Slovnaft continues its operation and supplying the market with its products.

The Ruzin reservoir, located near Margecany, eastern Slovakia, is almost without water. (Source: TASR)

The EU's plan to reduce gas consumption across the bloc by 15 percent has entered into force today. It is an attempt to cope with the reduction in its supplies and the crisis in energy prices due to Russia's war in Ukraine.

Work on the construction of the tram line in Bratislava's Petrzalka borough in the section from Jungmannova to Janikov Dvor should soon begin again. Bratislava has signed an amendment to the contract with the consortium that is building the line. The amendment reflects the large-scale increase in the prices of energy and construction materials.

If you have suggestions on how this news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk.
Someone, Ive long thought, should make a movie of Lowell Thompsons life and finally that is happening. A painter/writer/former ad man/legendary storyteller, Thompson is making the movie himself, collaborating with some old colleagues from the advertising world and some new friends. He is typically enthusiastic, saying, Im thinking Oscars, and then erupting in his distinctively joyful laugh.

The film is titled Channels Changers and you can see a bit of it here. It is to be a feature-length movie about the pioneering Black people who began to influence the advertising business during the 1960s and beyond.

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Thompson and former Chicago advertising man Cotton Stevenson are co-executive producers of the film. After I left the ad business and Chicago, I began making documentaries (Diversity University (2014), Stand (2016) and The Good Brothers (2019)) and having some success, he told me, from his home in California. I first met Lowell on Facebook and we shared certain political and world views and were both from the ad world. Chicago is where I came right after college. I met my wife. We had a son. When I came to visit earlier this year, Lowell and I met and he told me about his new book and that was that.

That book is a soon-to-be-published memoir titled Mad Invisible Man, which charts not only Thompsons life but is a behind-the-scenes look at the all but forgotten or ignored ways in which Black talent contributed to the creation of some of the most prominent commercials, on and most profoundly, behind the cameras.

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Its an important story that needs to be told, Stevenson says.

Thompson says, rightly, This film is more than just me. He then talks of his life, going back to his birth in Bronzeville in 1947.

His family  Lowell was one of 11 kids  soon moved into an apartment in what was then the clean and safe Robert Taylor Homes public housing development.

Drawing pictures since early childhood, he showed enough talent at Wendell Phillips High School to earn a scholarship to the School of the Art Institute. But he was gone in six months, feeling, I saw no future in what was basically an all-white art world.

He took a job as office boy in the Chicago Tribunes Creative Services Department, where he worked illustrating clothing advertisements. His portfolio soon landed him a job with the advertising agency Foote, Cone & Belding. His timing was fortuitous. In the midst of the civil rights movement and in the wake of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.s assassination, companies were eager to reach out to the African American community and ad agencies began to recruit Black applicants.

Lowell Thompson, outside Tribune Tower on Aug. 8, 2022, where he started his first job in the 1960s. (Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune)

Thompson became an art director, working for the Chicago offices of many of the biggest agencies in the world, on campaigns for Coca-Cola, United Airlines and helping produce the first Black-audience TV commercials for McDonalds. Though he was happy and never felt any racism personally, he began to sense an undercurrent of racism in the business and wrote a lengthy article about that for Print magazine called The Invisible Man in the Gray Flannel Suit.

That article led to an Advertising Age story with the headline, Dirty Little Secret. Thompson felt the sting of the industry, as his advertising work dried up. He moved on, founding the nonprofit Partnership Against Racism, and, for a time, co-hosting a weekly WLIT-FM radio program called The Race Question.

He also devoted more time to his own painting and writing. In 2012 he had his biggest success, writing African Americans in Chicago (Arcadia Publishing). I was in a bookstore and I saw books about Italians in Chicago, about Jews, Japanese  but none about African Americans, he says. So I sent them an email that said, Im the man to do it.

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Arcadia agreed and the book has been a steady bestseller ever since.

He has also written 1995s Whitefolks: Seeing America Through Black Eyes and 2018s Branding Humans: Selling White Supremacy to America.

I have written about Thompson before. He is ever filled with ideas and opinions and a charming self-confidence. As he said of RaceMan Answers, his self-published e-book and pocket-size softcover in 2014, This book can solve the race problem in the United States.

He has, as you can see, a rakish look. His left eye, troublesome from birth, got worse after he turned 50. As he began experiencing double vision, he started wearing a patch. But he has always had a way with words. Some time ago he told me, There are only two kinds of people in Chicago. Those that get the blues and those that give em.

He has lived modestly in Uptown for many years and is always out and about, at coffee shops, bookstores and galleries, events of all sorts.

He and Stevenson continue to work on their film. They shot some interviews and other material in May, connecting with old friends from the business, and have already received a donation from the president of one big ad agency here and recently launched a GoFundMe page.

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One easily senses the zeal of both men as Thompson says, It was Black hands and minds that were behind some of Americas whitest ads. We colorized them from the inside, thats the beauty of it.

The pair originally thought they might need a professional actor as narrator/host but, says Stevenson, As soon as I saw Lowell on camera, I said, Thats it.

Thompson smiles and says, I watch myself in it and I think, Well, maybe I missed my calling. I could have been Denzel.

And then he laughs.
In The Outlaws, the British series created by and starring Stephen Merchant (now in its second season on Amazon), a group of people guilty of minor crimes must take part in a community service program in Bristol  only they somehow find themselves caught up in a scenario far more complicated than they anticipated. Christopher Walken also stars.

When I first got into the business, Merchant said, I remember someone at the BBC saying to me: In a good comedy or good drama, you should chase your characters up a tree and then throw rocks at them. So Season 1 was chasing them up the tree and Season 2 is throwing rocks at them and anything else we can find lying around. Really turning up the heat. The stakes are higher, and the jeopardy and the threats are more extreme.

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Merchant first gained fame as the co-creator of the original British version of The Office with Ricky Gervais. He and Gervais teamed up again on Extras and Lifes Too Short. As an actor, Merchant also starred in his own series Hello Ladies and his other on-screen credits include everything from The Big Bang Theory to Modern Family to the X-Men film Logan.

Stephen Merchant (left) is the creator and star of the comedy series "The Outlaws." Seen here with co-star Christopher Walken. (Sam Taylor/Amazon Studios )

When asked to share a worst moment in his career, well, theres some irony there: Merchant creates symphonies of cringe for his fictional characters. What does it look like when that happens to him in real life?

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The most agonizing one was bombing on stage as a comedian, he said.

Heres that story.

My worst moment 

When I first did stand-up, I hit upon this character who  the idea was that he was an arrogant comedian from my hometown of Bristol. This was probably in 2000. So I would come on stage and I would immediately take against the audience and decide that they werent showing me enough respect. I would say: I dont like the way youre looking at me, the applause wasnt big enough  Im going to come on again and youre gonna clap louder. And the whole joke of the bit was that I kept promising this dynamite stand-up act that I never got to because I kept getting distracted.

The whole joke was a meta-comment, I guess, on stand-up comedy and egos. Without naming names, there was a comedian Id seen once, when I was first starting out, who went on stage and read out a newspaper interview (laughs) about himself to the audience. And I remember thinking, wow, theres an arrogance there!

So that was the idea. And when it went well, it was the best because the audience got it. And the more of a (jerk) I was, the harder they laughed and it was just giddy, it was so much fun. At the end, I would say, OK, look: You dont like me, I dont like you  Im going to leave. And if you see me in the bar, dont look at me, dont talk to me. So I would walk to the wings of the stage, wait for a beat and then walk back on and say, I cant get out that way. And I would have to walk through the crowd. And it was so much fun because they were on my side, they knew the gag, and the more awkward I made it, the funnier it became.

But sometimes (laughs) the audience thought I really was an arrogant comedian. They did not get the joke. And then I was in trouble. Then I was really in trouble.

From left: Stephen Merchant, Warwick Davis and Ricky Gervais in the comedy series "Life's Too Short." (Ray Burmiston/HBO )

One time in Exeter, which is maybe two hours from Bristol, I came on and I started the act and I immediately knew I was in trouble. Sometimes if it was not going great, maybe half the room was on board. But there was no one on board. I think it was 300 people and not a single person was going for this.

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And someone shouted a line that I thought only happened in movies, which was: Call a taxi for the comedian! The whole thing went off a cliff.

And the problem was, I didnt have an act. That was my act! Id probably been inspired by Andy Kaufman, it was that sort of thing. It was very conceptual. So the problem was, I couldnt fall back on my other material because I didnt have other material. I didnt have anything!

So it just kept getting worse and worse. And you didnt get paid if you didnt finish your 20 minutes, so I had to stay up there for 20 minutes. And I remember when I came off, the guy who ran the club said, What you need is gag, gag, gag. And I was like, I understand what comedy is about, friend.

So Im walking out  pretty much like my character, who is supposed to be walking out in discomfort and shame  but instead of them laughing about it, Im walking off in real embarrassment and shame.

Stephen Merchant in "The Outlaws." (James Pardon/Amazon Studios )

I was so crushed. And I remember calling my agent and saying, Im never doing stand-up again. You have to get me out of all future gigs. I can never go on stage again. And him saying, Well, we booked you into this other gig, and I was like, If they didnt get it in Exeter, theyre never going to get it in regional provinces  this is too artsy, its too sophisticated, theyre never going to get it! And he was like, Well, they paid upfront, you gotta do it.

And as I was leaving the club, one of the waitresses came up and she said: Im here every week, I see all the comedians who come through and I thought that was really funny. I totally got what you were doing. It was hilarious. Well done. Keep going. She was the only branch, as I was falling, that I could cling onto.

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So I got on the train and I went to the next gig. And I stayed in this little bed-and-breakfast and the next day I was thinking: I cant do this act again tonight. Its gonna bomb and Im going to feel horrible. And I remember going to see Scary Movie, which is a funny movie, but I could not laugh because I was in such a bad place. What am I doing with my life? Why am I so far from home?

And then I went on that night in this other venue, it crushed! I was like, whats going on (laughs)?

How long into the act would Merchant know if an audience was getting the joke or not?

Normally they need to get it within the first three or four minutes. And you could tell from the reaction to a few initial bits whether they were tuning into it.

Some nights it was just a little flat; they got it, but they werent totally into the idea but they sort of went with it anyway. And there were nights where it just blew the roof off. And then there were nights like this, where there was not a peep. Just anger. And hate. Like: We came out tonight, went spent money here, what are you doing?

When its going well, those 20 minutes go by in a flash and you want to stay on forever. And when its going badly, time slows down and every minute feels like an hour. You get that feeling in your stomach, like when you think a doctor might give you bad news or you think someone might break up with you. You can sense somethings coming that is not good and youre anxious about it and your gut is telling you. All of that  the sweating  its all happening.

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Theres a real discipline involved in sticking it out when youre falling apart inside.

Thats right. Its entirely stick it out because youre trying to be professional.

And theres part of you that thinks, maybe theyll suddenly get it? Like a ripple of laughter might start?

Before he became well-known on TV, Stephen Merchant worked as a stand-up comedian. (Jordan Strauss/Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

But you also start to slightly drift outside yourself, like youre looking down at the experience. So I remember being very aware of the environment and how absurd it was. You know how in movies, itll start in a house and the camera will zoom up and itll come out of the ceiling of the house and then youll be looking at the house, then the street, then the neighborhood, then the city, then the country, then youre up in the cosmos looking back the globe? It felt like that. Like I was pulled out and I was looking back down and thinking: What a weird thing this is that humans gather in a room and another human gets on stage and tries to amuse them. It all felt very surreal and strange. Why are they here? Why am I here? It was an existential crisis.

And I knew, for the next gig, I couldnt change my act. If youre a guy who does funny observations about the differences between men and women, you can probably try and think of some new observations pretty quick. But its much harder when its this conceptual act  what, are you suddenly going to write 20 minutes of jokes in an afternoon? Maybe some people could do it, but I certainly couldnt.

And I knew my act had worked some of the time. It had worked. It was just, some audiences got it and some didnt.

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I eventually stopped doing stand-up because I got busy with TV, and when I went back to it, I tried to do that act again. But by this time I was slightly well-known and it didnt work for a different reason: They didnt buy it because they knew who I was and they just thought I was arrogant because I was on TV.

So it didnt die in the same way, but it didnt really land. Funnily enough, thats when I had to rebuild the act from the ground up.

The takeaway 

They say never blame the audience, its always you. And Im like, maybe sometimes it is the audience, you know?

Or maybe what its about is finding the right audience. Not every audience is your audience. But your audience might be out there. Not everybody is going to be a fan and not everybody is going to love everything you do. So you just have to plow your own furrow  and maybe there will be enough waitresses out there, as it were, that will find it funny and youll find an audience.

The other thing it gave me was: Once youve bombed that bad, youre sort of a little bit fearless for a while because it was awful, but I survived. No one punched me. It was just embarrassing and I left and never saw those people again and I went on with my life. So in a way, you go back a bit recharged  not seeking out that feeling again, but being aware that if it comes, youll get through it.

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Stephen Merchant attends "The Outlaws" Emmy For Your Consideration event in Beverly Hills in April. (Michael Kovac/Getty Images/Amazon Studios)

Nina Metz is a Tribune critic

nmetz@chicagotribune.com

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It was an incredibly productive night at the office for Team Cullen during Mondays 10-race card at Grand River Raceway.

Travis Cullen manufactured a five-bagger over the course of the evening, and three of those wins were supplied by trainer Jodie Cullen aka mom.

Wiggy got the ball rolling for Team Cullen thanks to her 1:59.3 triumph versus two-year-old foes in Race 3. They also struck with Jewels Dragon in Race 10 and earlier in Race 5  the $10,000 Fillies & Mares Preferred Pace  with Outlaw Imahotvixen.

The eight-year-old daughter of Blue Burner-Fox Valley Cherish was a wire-to-wire winner in 1:55.2 over Black Betty and Artistic Meadow.

Travis also catch-drove Autumns Passion to a 1:57.3 victory in Race 6 followed by another catch-driving triumph behind Better Kissthe Men in 1:55 in Race 8.

A group of six faced the gate for the $11,000 Preferred Handicap Trot, with heavily-favoured Cool Muscle cruising to a handy victory in 1:56.2 for driver Scott Coulter and trainer Jessica Hayter.

The eight-year-old son of Muscle Mass-Canada Cool rode second over cover in the middle stages of the mile before using a :28.1 closing panel to win by 3-1/4 lengths over Willyorwonthe in 1:56.2. Getting Serious was third.

Sent off as the 4-5 favourite, the gelding won for the second time this season  and for the 19th time in his career  for Jessica and Ed Hayter of Erin , Ont . The trotter is quickly closing in on $250,000 in lifetime earnings.

To view results for Monday's card of harness racing, click the following link: Monday Results  Grand River Raceway.
Sherrell M. Rivera, 32, conducted multiple Google searches on her cell phone about the liquid uses of the drug and its side effects, including a search of whether the addictive substance would "slow breathing," according to the prosecution's summary of evidence.
Caught in the slow cogs of Virginia government are guidelines for adding context to war monuments, with experts and officials doubtful of approval anytime soon, even after more than two years in the making.

Once on the fast-track for approval, guidelines about adding context onto public memorials for war veterans are now taking the longer route toward completion, while localities sit by awaiting the guidance, said Stephanie Williams, deputy director of the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.

It just ends up taking awhile sometimes, Williams said. We did get a number of objections, so we had to forgo the fast-track process and enter into the standard regulatory process.

Guidelines for contextualizing war monuments are now in the second of three review rounds, she said. State offices reviewing the regulations include the attorney general, the Department of Planning and Budget, the secretary of Natural and Historic Resources, and the governor.

They each get a whack at it. Some of those agencies technically have deadlines by which they need to complete their review; some dont, Williams said. Sometimes things just get held up. Sometimes some of these agencies meet their review deadlines, and sometimes they dont.

A law passed by the state legislature in 2020 codified that localities can move or remove their war monuments, as has happened with Civil War statues depicting Confederate leaders in such cities as Charlottesville and Richmond.

But officials elsewhere are still waiting on these state guidelines before they add context to statues like the Confederate memorial owned by Roanoke County in downtown Salem. It was the subject in 2021 of a judges order for removal, which was then rejected by county leadership.

Roanoke County Board of Supervisors Chairman Paul Mahoney said the governing body has not recently discussed adding contextual placards to that two-story statue, which features Confederate flags in its detailing.

Were kind of treading water, quite frankly. Were waiting to see whats going to happen, Mahoney said. Whenever that state agency puts out the guidelines, well follow those.

Adding context to the statue is important to the board, he said. Its a topic where passions run high, especially in recent years.

We have a lot of additional issues that are very important, Mahoney said. Were trying to come up with a way without breaking the bank to pay for a new career and technical education facility, were struggling to attract county staff  were trying to build a new fire station out in east county, we have gaps being able to provide public services to our citizens, and I think a lot of the board members are really focused on these critical issues.

Even after the guidelines are passed, however, nothing is required to be done. Alterations are simply permitted. Mahoney said future changes to any monuments will still be subject to public hearings.

It would take some time, because you want to do it right, Mahoney said. You want to give all elements of our citizenry a chance to weigh in.

As for when these state guidelinessome 2  years in the makingare going to see final approval, the DHRs Williams said she has no crystal ball.

Oh, gosh, she said. Your guess is as good as mine.

To Bill Leighty, former head of the Virginia Retirement System and chief of staff for Gov. Mark Warner, the current governors administration seems poised to continue delaying the promulgation process.

My guess would be that they have no desire whatsoever to approve these regulations, Leighty said. In this case, I have no doubt that there are a number of people who are not quite so sure that this needs to happen with the change of administration. So they can take their sweet time making this happen.

He said it can take up to 18 months for a regulation to work its way through the system, and thats if the agencies involved really want it to happen. But regulations also require a governors signature for final approval.

It is not unusual for the governors office to be backed up on approving regulations generally, and really backed up when they dont like regulations at all, Leighty said. I assume this administration doesnt like the regulations at all.

So even when the regulations make it through to the final step of requiring a governors signature, they could be sent back to repeat much of the same process.

It is possible for a governor who doesnt like regulations to stymie the effort of the General Assembly in enacting a law, he said. The governors office always has the option of sending them back and saying, I dont like this. You need to do it again.
Nebraskas law restricting abortion after 20 weeks will remain unchanged  at least for now.

On Monday, Gov. Pete Ricketts said he wont call state lawmakers back to Lincoln, a step many expected would happen after the U.S. Supreme Court reversed the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade decision in June, putting the issue in the hands of states.

In a statement, Ricketts said Speaker Mike Hilgers informed him only 30 senators had signaled support for a special session aimed at enacting new legislation that restricts abortion after 12 weeks  not the total ban debated by the Legislature earlier this year.

That level of support would fall short of the 33 votes needed under the Legislatures current rules to break an anticipated filibuster.

For this reason, I will not be calling a special session, Ricketts said, adding it was deeply saddening that lawmakers wouldnt meet to consider what he called a measured, reasonable proposal to ban abortions after 12 weeks.

The announcement was applauded by groups that support keeping abortion accessible to Nebraskans, including Planned Parenthood Advocates of Nebraska, the ACLU of Nebraska, the Womens Fund of Omaha, and I Be Black Girl.

It is alarming that many state senators are apparently ready to deny Nebraskans the right to make decisions about their own health, lives and future, said Scout Richters, senior legal and policy counsel at the ACLU of Nebraska. At the same time, we are encouraged to see more proof that they do not have the votes.

The Nebraska Catholic Conference, meanwhile, said without a legislative change, the 20-week ban currently in statutes makes Nebraskas law one of the most permissive and extreme in the world.

Sadly, the abortion extremism of a small number of senators will result in further suffering and loss of preborn human life in Nebraska, said Marion Miner, the conferences associate director of pro-life and family policy. Only 10% of countries worldwide allow abortions after 15 weeks.

Without a special session, Nebraskas abortion restrictions will remain unchanged  at least for several more months  even after the Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization ruled there was no constitutional right to seek an abortion.

More than a dozen largely Republican-controlled states with so-called trigger laws on the books enacted complete or near-complete abortion bans after the Dobbs decision went into effect, while Indiana became the first to pass a ban in the weeks since.

Nebraska was not one of them, however. A bill (LB933) introduced by Sen. Joni Albrecht of Thurston enacting a ban on all abortions if Roe should be overturned fell two votes short of breaking a filibuster late in the 60-day session.

Hilgers, in a phone interview after Ricketts announcement on Monday, said he began discussions about whether or not to call a special session in May after the Dobbs decision was leaked.

Those conversations continued in the weeks following as the Lincoln senator, a Republican who will be sworn in as attorney general in January, tried to find 33 senators who could overcome a filibuster.

What Hilgers eventually settled on was lowering Nebraskas existing ban on abortions after 20 weeks to 12 weeks, a clean, simple way to get legislation over the finish line this year.

I wanted to give the governor a sense of what would attract the most support, he said.

No bill was drafted, according to Hilgers, but he said the intent was to not have any impact on access to in vitro fertilization, services to treat ectopic pregnancies or access to contraception.

In his letter to Ricketts, the speaker also said reducing the number of weeks from 20 to 12 would also not add criminal penalties for pregnant women who seek an abortion or for the health care professionals who provide them.

A majority of state senators would support further restrictions on abortion in Nebraska than currently exist in statute, Hilgers wrote to the governor.

But the proposal still failed to muster a filibuster-proof majority in Nebraskas one-house legislative body.

Two senators who voted in support for LB933  Omaha Sen. Robert Hilkemann and Sen. John Stinner of Gering  were not among the list of supporters included in Hilgers letter.

Omaha Sen. Kathleen Kauth, who replaced the late Sen. Rich Pahls, who was not present during the vote on LB933, was listed among the supporters. As was Norfolk Sen. Robert Dover, who was selected by Ricketts to replace Mike Flood, the author of Nebraskas current abortion law. Flood was elected to Congress earlier this summer.

While Hilgers and others sought to find agreement on a bill to bring during a special session, opponents to abortion restrictions put their focus on direct action, said Omaha Sen. Megan Hunt, who led the fight against the proposed trigger legislation on the floor this year.

Backers of abortion rights contacted physicians to ask them to oppose any legislation that might be introduced in a special session, Hunt said, and pressured the Nebraska Medical Association and other lobbyists "to stay out of the issue.

Its been about keeping the pressure on every single day, Hunt said. I made it clear that whoever ended up authoring the bill, even if it came from the lobby and not from any elected officials office, was just as responsible for an abortion ban.

Hunt, who is running for a second term in the Legislature, said her message reverberated with Nebraskans of all political stripes, even those who often find themselves on the opposite side of issues from her.

For the first time, I had outreach from conservative men and women who, no matter what their personal feelings are, know its not right for politicians to come between a doctor and a patient and make this decision for them, she said.

Then, last week, Hunt said voters in Kansas put Nebraska lawmakers on notice.

Driven by high turnout in a statewide primary, Kansas voters kept in place an amendment protecting the right to an abortion in the Sunflower states constitution on a landslide 59%-41% vote.

My colleagues saw what happened in Kansas, Hunt said. They saw that conservative women, especially, would abandon conservative candidates over this issue.

Hilgers differed in his interpretation of the abortion amendments outcome, saying the results of the referendum in Kansas or legislative action in Indiana did not play any part in the decision to call or not call a special session in Nebraska.

Theres not a senator I spoke to who changed their mind based on anything that happened in Kansas, or anything else, he said. I think we would have had 30 senators before, and 30 after.

With the prospects of a special session in 2022 dashed, attention now turns to the November election.

In addition to shaping the 108th Legislature ahead of its 90-day session scheduled to begin in early January  new senators could comprise as much as one-third of the body  Nebraskans will also choose a new governor.

Republican Jim Pillen, a member of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents from Columbus, has taken a solidly anti-abortion stance in his gubernatorial campaign, while Democrat Carol Blood has opposed abortion restrictions as a state senator from Bellevue.

Both those who applauded and lamented the decision not to call a special session indicated they believe maintaining access to or restricting abortion further will be a driving force for voters.

Ricketts, who has backed Pillen, said Hilgers letter shows that elections have consequences, and urged voters to look at which senators supported calling a special session to narrow abortion restrictions further and which did not.

Hunt said while Monday marked a small win for backers of abortion rights, the fight isnt over. The Legislature could look dramatically different next year with several moderate Republicans being term-limited out of office.

Nebraska Democratic Party Chair Jane Kleeb said poll after poll has shown a majority of Nebraskans support abortion rights, and said voters have a chance to show their support on Nov. 8.

Voters have an opportunity to defend legal access to abortion at the polls this November by electing more Democrats to the Legislature, Congress and the governors office, Kleeb said in a statement.

Hilgers said voters who support enacting tighter restrictions on abortion will see they need a few votes to get a filibuster-proof majority, while those in the other camp will see an opportunity to continue blocking legislation.

The question of abortion animates voters, theres no doubt about that, he said.
Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs deputies arrested a McGrew woman on Wednesday, Aug. 3, accusing her of stealing several puppies and a security camera from different residences.

According to court documents, a McGrew resident called authorities around 3 p.m. Wednesday. The caller alleged Catherine Salazar, 69, to have possibly stolen a large dog and several puppies from a house in McGrew.

Approximately 40 minutes later, a call came in from a rural Gering couple about a woman stealing a home security camera from their front porch.

The residents of the home were out of town at the time, but were alerted by their home security system that someone had removed their security camera. Through their phones, the residents were able to see a woman move a bench to reach the camera, remove the camera, and place it inside a potato chip bag.

The residents were able to see the womans vehicle through the camera feed, describing it as a gray mini-van  later identified as a Kia Sedona  pulling a junk-laden trailer.

The documents report that Scotts Bluff County Sheriffs officers quickly located the vehicle and pursued it westbound on Highway 92, but the driver did not stop. Officers eventually halted the vehicle using spike strips just before the highways intersection with Highway 71.

According to court documents, deputies recognized the driver as the same woman from the surveillance footage and also found a large female Canary Mastiff dog in the passenger seat. The woman was identified as Catherine Salazar.

Salazar told deputies that she had visited the rural Gering home to purchase duck eggs, and had removed the security camera but did not steal it. However, the deputies allegedly located the camera inside a potato chip bag inside her van. Deputies also reported that they found marijuana and a marijuana pipe inside the trailer attached to the van.

One deputy got in contact with the owners of the dogs who said they were stolen earlier that morning. Some of the puppies were just one day old.

The deputies drove to Melbeta and were able to find 10 more puppies in the backyard of a house on County Road 29. The dogs were returned to their McGrew residence and reunited with their mothers and owners.

Salazar has been charged with one count of theft by unlawful taking and 12 counts of felony theft by unlawful taking. She was also charged with 12 counts of felony animal abuse, possession of marijuana less than one ounce and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The woman is also charged in another case in which she is alleged to have attempted to take kittens on July 28. She is charged with attempted theft by taking, a misdemeanor, in that case. The woman told officers that she was attempting to rescue the animals and get them vaccinations.
Troopers and investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol are leading an investigation into a shooting that occurred at a residence near Broadwater.

At approximately 6:30 p.m. Monday, troopers were requested by the Morrill County Sheriffs Office to assist at the scene of a family dispute which resulted in the shooting death of Rodney Bennett, 57. The Morrill County Sheriffs Office had arrested Joseph Bennett, 29, before troopers arrived, according to information released by the State Patrol.

Rodney Bennett is reported to have been the father of Joseph Bennett.

The Nebraska State Patrol was requested to be the lead agency once it was learned the victim had died due to his injuries.

Investigators were assisted by the Sidney Police Department and members of the WING Task Force.

An autopsy is planned as the investigation continues.
The RPMs will be high as gearheads burn rubber and stir up dust at various events Aug. 15-Aug. 21 during the High Plains Riot in Mitchell.

The Riot is in its 11th year and will continue to offer new activities for the community to enjoy throughout the weeklong event.

Founder Jeremiah Gardner said the Riot continues to be a popular attraction and anticipates this years event will see an even larger turnout.

Were still looking at pulling anywhere from 150 to 250 cars, depending on how many locals show up. We draw a crowd of 3,000 to 5,000 on Saturday pretty easy because were kind of the big show in town at that time.

Some of the car enthusiasts drive over 1,000 miles to visit the valley for the Riot. Gardner said he spoke to people who are traveling from the Washington and Oregon area, Tennessee, New Mexico, Arizona, Kansas and Ohio for the event. He also said representatives from Rat Rod Magazine will be back to cover the event.

We have quite a pull again this year even with the gas prices, which is awesome, Gardner said. Theres going to be some really cool stuff on display this year.

The events begin Monday, Aug. 15, and continue Tuesday, Aug. 16 and Wednesday, Aug 17 with cruises starting from Western Travel Terminal at 8:30 a.m. Rioters and the public are invited to dinners all three nights at 6 p.m. Mondays dinner is at the firehouse, Tuesdays dinner is at the Flyover Brewery and Wednesdays dinner is at the Rustic tavern.

Thursday mornings cruise begins at WTT at 8:30 a.m. The drivers of the rat rods and hot rods will cruise to the Scotts Bluff National Monument before having a meet and greet at Hydrotex from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The day will conclude with a private VIP, 80s-themed party at Goonies.

The public is invited to attend the Dirt Track Extravaganza Friday, Aug. 19 at the Scotts Bluff County Fairgrounds in Mitchell at 6 p.m. Gates open at 5 p.m. The event will run from 6-9 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and youth ages 15 years and under are free.

Drivers will bring out their motorcycles, hot rods, rat rods and toys to run a flat track at the fairgrounds arena. They can drift through the dirt and showcase the horsepower of the vehicles during the family-fun event. Gardner said he purchased a flamethrower to use during the extravaganza. Food vendors will be at the fairgrounds that evening.

Its just really entertaining to see those big trucks and hot rods going around on dirt, he said.

Gardner is optimistic the Dirt Track Extravaganza will see an influx in visitors this year.

I think the dirt track is going to be the most explosive growth this year from last year because that was a new event we came up with and it was really successful, he said. Im expecting that one to probably triple or quadruple this year from what we had last year.

The public is encouraged to bring ear protection and sunscreen.

The Riot will have a full day of events Saturday, Aug. 20.

Were going to have a lot of cool stuff going on throughout the fairgrounds all day Saturday, he said. Were going to have bounce houses again, were going to do the races, RC car races and face painting and the food vendors.

Registration for the burnouts is from 8-10 a.m., which is followed by an opening ceremony at the burnout pad.

Just come down and get yourself a front row seat if you want to check out the burnouts.

The first session of burnouts will begin at 11:30 a.m. and the final burnout session will begin around 1:30 p.m.

The big part that we want is just for people not to cross the line, Gardner said. We put up concrete barriers and caution tape. Were spreading it out even more this year so more people can see because I know everyone wants to see.

With a variety of rat rod and custom cars on display throughout the Riot, Gardner hopes the community can enjoy the creativity behind each vehicle.

I want them to see the imagination of the builders, he said. Were really a builder-oriented show, so we really showcase people who build their own stuff. I want them to see what we do behind the scenes and get to know the builders and see how much of family it is.

Young builders will also have the opportunity to display their vehicles they either built by themselves or with the support of their family. The Riot will hand out Tools for Teens, tool boxes filled with a variety of tools for the teen builders.

We hand out one of those every year, he said. Thats a big deal for us, too, is to get them going in the right direction and providing scholarships for people going into the trades.

Participants will be recognized for their burnouts and participation during the awards ceremony at 3 p.m. The evening concludes with an after party at Redz in Mitchell at 6 p.m.

The final day of the Riot will feature a hot rod church at the fairgrounds at 10:30 a.m.

Every year, Gardner adds something new to the itinerary. This year, there will be a High Plains Shootout RC car drag racing to conclude Sundays festivities. The racing begins at noon at NAPA in Scottsbluff.

Im just supporting Seth Vogel, who runs that event, he said. Its just something new Im supporting to give people to do in town.

The shootout will last a couple of hours Sunday afternoon.

For more information about this years event, visit The High Plains Riot Facebook page.
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Tom Doyle, Douglas County Engineer, died Saturday at age 91. (Courtesy of Doyle family)

Days before his 36th birthday, a young Democrat Tom Doyle was tapped by Republican Gov. Norbert Tiemann to be Nebraskas labor commissioner.

Doyle would move on to be the state engineer, serve as an elected state lawmaker and in 1983 stepped into the role of Douglas County engineer, a position he was elected to nine times and held for 39 years.

Indeed, Doyles public service career spanned more than a half century  and he remained an elected official until his death Saturday at age 91.

All walks of life

Colleagues remember him as a sharp, firm, yet easy-going leader beloved by people from many different walks of life.

Tom had a real good political mind and the ability to work well with people, said Ben Nelson, a former Nebraska governor and U.S.senator. That made him a very valuable part of the team.

Nelson said he and Doyle served together in the cabinet of Gov. Jim Exon but knew each other from the days they helped campaign for Frank Morrison, who served as Nebraska governor from 1961-67.

Thats quite a period of service, Nelson said of Doyle, who suffered from congestive heart failure. He could have done anything else, but thats what he chose, to serve the people well.

Mark Doyle, who followed his father into public service, said his dads ease in connecting with people was rooted in his wide-ranging life experiences filled with a good share of bumps.

Tom told his kids that the childhood years he lived in the Southside Terrace housing projects saved the lives of him, his two brothers and their mom.

Southside Terrace, Golden Gloves, packinghouse

They had moved from home to home before stabilizing several years in the South Omaha housing development, where rent was more affordable. Though the area was segregated, Tom had friends of different races.

He became a teen champ in a lightweight division in the Midwest Golden Gloves, graduated from Omaha South High School and worked in the packinghouses.

He got his college degree while working and raising a family with his late wife, Anna Rose Nuni, of 52 years. The couple have five children.

Mary Ann Borgeson, chair of the Douglas County Board and a county commissioner for 28 years, said Doyle was one of the longest, if not the longest, serving Douglas County official in an elected post.

(Sam Howell Jr., father of the late Anne Boyle, served as county treasurer for 38 years through 1992.)

Wealth of knowledge

On behalf of the county, Borgeson offered condolences to the family and said Doyle will be sorely missed.

He was a friend. He was so easy-going. And the wealth of knowledge and information he had, not just because of his position, but on the history of Douglas County, was phenomenal, Borgeson said.

She said she would talk to Doyle for hours about issues including possible government merger and road issues.

He was just a one-of-a-kind public servant all around, said Borgeson.

Doyles appointment as state labor commissioner in March 1967 launched his public career. He was appointed county engineer in March 1983. Mark said his dad had a lively race in 1986 but handily won re-election every four years after that. He did not run for re-election to the post that voters will decide on in November.

Applause from retirees

He served so long that he resided at Aksarben Village Senior Living when he won his last election. Residents, buoyed by the victory of a fellow senior, gave him a round of applause.

Doyles legacy is marked also by a family that includes two former elected officials, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Most importantly, he was a devoted husband and father that was a best friend to each family member, said Marks wife, Aldona.

Mark said his dad took joy in joining in on friendly political debates and talking about current events. He kept a journal and jotted down inspirational quotes and thoughts.

His body wore out, Mark said. It just could not keep up with his mind.

A funeral service is scheduled for held Friday at St. Gerald Catholic Church in Ralston.
OMAHA -- The controversial proposal to build an RV and airboat park along the Platte River may still have life.

Brad Brown, who builds high-end homes in the Omaha area, will attempt next week to convince the Valley City Council to greenlight his plan to turn approximately 92 acres along the river into an RV park.

Brown's proposal, which was rejected by the Valley Planning Commission in June, goes before the City Council Tuesday.

In a text message Wednesday, Brown said he and his team have fine-tuned their proposal.

"Over the past 6 weeks, we have worked hard to listen to the concerns of our neighbors and revise our development plan consistent with the Douglas County Comprehensive Development Plan for floodways (the river side of the levee)," he wrote. "We further researched and revised our development plan to be substantially similar to the recreational and camping areas created by the Papio-River Natural Resource District."

Brown declined to say what changes he is making, saying that as a courtesy to the Valley City Council, he wanted to present his updated plan to them first.

Opponents fear he could receive a favorable vote. The result, they say, would be to bring noise, congestion and declining property values to their river getaway.

"It is my understanding that the City Council is considering overturning the decision of the planning commission," said Rich Tesar, who owns property nearby and is an elected board member of the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District. "We're told our property values could go down 25 to 30%. And there is a lot of concern about the airboat noise  it will be like living next to an airport."

Airboats are a type of boat designed to travel across shallow water. They are propelled forward by an industrial-sized fan that is powered by an automotive or jet engine. Passengers and pilots must wear ear protection when riding in them.

The Platte River Resort, as it would be called, would have space for about 290 RVs and 15 to 20 airboats, based on available information.

The park would be located along .75 miles of riverfront property where West Maple dead-ends at the Platte River. The site is immediately downriver from the residential area known as Sokol Camp.

Opponents also say the proposal will increase flood risk and could run afoul of federal regulations that restrict building in the path of flooding. That's because the RV park would be in the floodway, the area along a river that is most heavily regulated.

Domina Law Group, in a letter to the Valley City Council, argues that the development could lead to the community losing access to federal flood insurance and incurring significant related costs. Domina represents Curtis Acres Homeowners Association.

Brown has said his plan is the highest and best use of land given that no permanent housing can be built in a floodway.

Promotional literature describes the park as Nebraska's premier RV resort. Brown has said he would require users to sign six-month rental agreements at $1,000 a month, with a $4,000 down payment. The camp would only be open April 1 to Oct. 31, to avoid that time of the year when ice jam flooding occurs on the river.

At the June planning meeting, Brown described the RV park as an economic development tool that would draw visitors to the Valley area to eat and shop.

Opponents have lawyered up, circulated petitions and posted signs opposing the park. A number of wealthy Omaha families own property in the area.

The four-person Valley City Council is scheduled to vote on the issue at its Aug. 9 meeting. Should the council deadlock, the mayor will cast the tie-breaking vote. Valley's council members did not return requests for comment.

Mayor Cindy Grove said she hasn't formed an opinion on the development.

"There are a lot of things outstanding," she said of the problems cited by the Planning Commission. "The developer is working to address those items."
Chinese, Mongolian FMs hold talks on boosting ties

Xinhua) 08:33, August 09, 2022

ULAN BATOR, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Mongolian Foreign Minister Batmunkh Battsetseg agreed to further enhance ties between the two countries during their talks here on Monday.

Battsetseg said that Mongolia highly appreciates China's neighborhood policy of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, welcomes and stands ready to actively participate in the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, and speaks highly of China's contribution to maintaining international law and the international order.

China upholds the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, demonstrates its responsibility as a major country, and provides strong support to Mongolia and other developing countries in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, Battsetseg noted, adding that the Mongolian side sincerely thanks China for this and will always keep it in mind.

Consolidating and developing relations with China as a friendly neighbor is a priority of the Mongolian foreign policy, Battsetseg said.

Mongolia is satisfied with the close high-level exchanges the two countries have maintained, and willing to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, strengthen strategic communication, deepen the synergy of development strategies, expand cooperation in various fields such as economy, trade, energy, ports, agriculture, law enforcement, green development, innovation, and people-to-people exchanges and cultural engagement, and create more demonstration projects to bring more benefits to people of the two countries, she added.

For his part, Wang said that China and Mongolia are good neighbors linked by mountains and rivers, good friends with mutual trust, and good partners with mutual support.

China always regards China-Mongolia relations as one of the priorities of neighborhood cooperation, he said.

Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, the China-Mongolia comprehensive strategic partnership has been consolidated and deepened, continuously advancing to new levels, he said.

The two sides joined hands to fight the epidemic by gifting one another with sheep and tea, writing a new chapter of friendship between the two countries, Wang said.

The Chinese side appreciates Mongolia's understanding and support of China's legitimate position, and supports Mongolia in achieving political stability and social harmony, taking a development path suited to its own national conditions, and making strides towards the vision of New Revival Policy, he said.

The two sides will continue the firm support for each other in safeguarding their respective core interests, he said.

Wang said that China is willing to strengthen the synergy of development strategies with Mongolia, especially between the Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolia's Prairie Road development strategy, the Global Development Initiative and Mongolia's New Revival Policy, and China's "two-stage" strategic plan and Mongolia's long-term development policy, noting that the two sides should work together to deepen all-round cooperation and help each other to accelerate development and revitalization.

China is ready to continue to provide support to Mongolia in fighting the pandemic until a final victory over the virus, Wang said.

The two sides agreed to strengthen exchanges between their foreign ministries, and hold diplomatic strategic consultations and policy and consular dialogues between the two sides within the year.

The two sides agreed to hold meetings of such mechanisms as the Joint Committee on Economy, Trade, Science and Technology and the Joint Committee on Mine and Connectivity Cooperation, and study and revise the medium- and long-term plans for bilateral economic and trade cooperation, formulate an outline for the development of investment cooperation, steadily promote key projects, and provide a good business environment for companies from the other side.

The two sides also expressed satisfaction with the fact that land ports have been reopened as many as possible, pledging to ensure the safe and stable operation of the ports, and improve the throughput of goods and efficiency of customs clearance.

They will strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, so as to consolidate the public opinion and social foundation for bilateral friendship, and enhance the friendship between the people of two countries. The Chinese side will increase scholarships to Mongolian students and provide maximum convenience for those who return to China to resume in-person classes.

The two sides will actively cooperate to prevent and control desertification and tackle climate change.

China appreciates Mongolia's national campaign to plant 1 billion trees, while China will strive to plant 70 billion trees within 10 years, and the two sides should join hands in building a community of life for man and nature.

The two sides will continue to strengthen communication and coordination within the frameworks of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and others.

Wang said that China supports Mongolia in playing a greater role in international and regional affairs.

After the talks, the two sides signed documents on foreign ministries' cooperation and witnessed the signing of cooperation documents about railway ports, health quarantine and others.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate is shown on July 10, 2019, in Palm Beach, Fla. Former President Donald Trump says the FBI is conducting a search of his Mar-a-Lago estate. (Wilfredo Lee/AP)

Former President Donald Trump said in a lengthy statement Monday that the FBI was conducting a search of his Mar-a-Lago estate and asserted that agents had broken open a safe. A person familiar with the matter said the action was related to a probe of whether Trump had taken classified records from his White House tenure to his Florida residence.

The action, which the FBI and Justice Department did not immediately confirm, marks a dramatic escalation in law enforcement scrutiny of Trump and comes as he has been laying the groundwork to make another bid for president. Though a search warrant does not suggest that criminal charges are near or even expected, federal officials looking to obtain one must demonstrate that they have probable cause that a crime occurred.

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After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Trump said in his statement.

He added: These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before.

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Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search, including about whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorized the search.

A person familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, said the search happened earlier Monday and agents were also looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at the estate.

The Justice Department has been investigating the presence of classified records inside 15 boxes that were retrieved from Mar-a-Lago by the National Archives and Records Administration earlier this year. The Archives then referred the matter to the Justice Department.

Federal law bars the removal of classified documents to unauthorized locations, though it is possible that Trump could try to argue that, as president, he was the ultimate declassification authority.

There are multiple statutes governing classified information, including a law punishable by up to five years in prison that makes it a crime to remove such records and retain them at an unauthorized location. Another statute makes it a crime to mishandle classified records either intentionally or in a grossly negligent manner.

The probe is hardly the only legal headache confronting Trump. A separate investigation related to efforts by Trump and his allies to undo the results of the 2020 presidential election and the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol has also been intensifying in Washington.

And a district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia is investigation whether Trump and his close associates sought to interfere in that states election, which was won by Democrat Joe Biden.
Statesville Police Department honored three officers during a promotional ceremony held by Chief David Onley recently at Statesville City Hall.

Capt. Marc Carmona, Sgt. Harold Sexton and Corporal David Benge were recognized at the ceremony. Carmona was promoted from sergeant to the rank of captain and is assigned as the District 2 captain. Carmona attended and completed (Basic Law Enforcement Training) BLET at the NC Justice Academy, worked for the City of Henderson Police Department from 2004-07, and has been employed at the Statesville Police Department for 15 years.

Sexton was promoted to the rank of sergeant and is assigned to Alpha Patrol Squad. Sexton served in the United States Marine Corps prior to attending and completing BLET at Mitchell Community College and has been employed at the Statesville Police Department for 10 years.

Benge was promoted to the rank of corporal and is assigned to Alpha Patrol Squad. Benge attended and completed BLET at Mitchell Community College and has been employed at the Statesville Police Department for four years as a patrol officer.
Ashton Kutcher says he's "lucky to be alive" after dealing with a rare autoimmune disorder, PEOPLE reported.

In Access Hollywood's sneak peek at an upcoming episode of National Geographic's "Running Wild with Bear Grylls: The Challenge," the 44-year-old actor opened up about his private battle with a condition that left him unable to walk, see or hear.

"Like two years ago, I had this weird, super rare form of vasculitis that knocked out my vision, it knocked out my hearing, it knocked out like all my equilibrium," Kutcher revealed in the clip. "It took me like a year to build it all back up."

"You don't really appreciate it until it's gone," he continued. "Until you go, 'I don't know if I'm ever going to be able to see again, I don't know if I'm ever going to be able to hear again, I don't know if I'm ever going to be able to walk again.'"

The That 70s Show actor added that he's "lucky to be alive" and is now using the health scare as a learning experience.

"The minute you start seeing your obstacles as things that are made for you, to give you what you need, then life starts to get fun, right?" Kutcher said. "You start surfing on top of your problems instead of living underneath them."

Vasculitis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of blood vessels, which restricts blood flow and can cause damage to the organs and tissue.

Symptoms may include weakness in the hands and feet, abrupt hearing loss or temporary blindness in one or both eyes, according to the Mayo Clinic.

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A Galax organization hopes to open a Marion day support center for individuals with developmental disabilities this September. While the proposal has the recommendation of the countys planners, it still needs approval by the countys board of supervisors.

Community Connection Support Service, which already operates such a care center in Fancy Gap, has asked the county for a Special Use Permit for a site that is currently zoned for Agricultural/Rural. The 4-acre property that the agency would like to convert is now home to a Jehovahs Witness Kingdom Hall at 2510 Highway 16.

Speaking during a public hearing of the countys supervisors and planning commission, Cheryl Grimm, an owner and director of operations for Community Connection, noted that the center would have to be licensed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. She anticipated that it would open at 8 a.m. and close at 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Literature provided by Community Connection noted that developmental disabilities include autism, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities.

Program participants, Grimm said, take part in a variety of activities ranging from games and puzzles to arts and crafts. Staff members also help individuals with educational lessons and building daily living activities such as cleaning, laundry, and self-care.

Additionally, Grimm said, staff members help the participants take part in community engagement, which can be going to a movie, visiting the lake or eating out.

Community engagement, Grimm said, helps participants take part in everyday activities while reducing the stigma associated with developmental disabilities. They become part of the community, she told officials during the hearing held in late July.

Community Connection Support Services has operated a day center in Fancy Gap for two years, Grimm said, and will use it as a model for its Marion facility.

All staff members go through specialized training, Grimm said.

While the state requires a staff to client ratio of 1 to 7, Grimm said Community Connection prefers 1:5. For community engagement, she said, the ratio drops to a worker for every two to three participants.

Should the county approve the permit, Grimm said a bank is ready to give the organization the funds to proceed. We expect to close within a week of your decision, she told the board. Were very excited to be in the area.

A neighboring property owner expressed concerns about safety for residents and program participants, noting the high rate of speed at which some vehicles on Rt. 16 travel.

Some fencing will be put up, Grimm noted. She also said, I dont want people to be afraid of our folks. They are contributing members of the community.

Following the public hearing, the planning commission recommended that the supervisors approve Community Connections permit. The supervisors are expected to make a decision at their Aug. 11 meeting.

The planning commission also recommended that the supervisors OK a Special Use Permit to allow an accessory building without a main building on property that is part of Sugar Groves Saddlebrook Farms, a recreational subdivision with cabins, RVs, and manufactured homes.

As well, the planners recommended that supervisors approve rezoning land at 5276 Lee Highway in Atkins from Commercial to Agricultural/Rural. Once the home of Anderson Furniture, the propertys new owners plan to add a manufactured home behind the one-time store and use the former retail building for storage.

Two properties to the west are now zoned for commercial use, while properties to the east are zoned Agricultural/Rural.

No objections to either proposal were voiced during the public hearings.

The supervisors are also expected to decide on these recommendations on Aug. 11.
Floyd County resident Randi Lynn Tawney is a recent graduate of the practical nursing program at New River Community College.

Dr. Peter Anderson, NRCC Vice President for Instruction and Student Services, addressed graduates at the ceremony on Aug. 1. Stacey Crowder and Daniel Longoria were chosen by their peers to give the student address.

NRCCs certificate program prepares students to qualify as contributing members of a health care team, rendering patient care in a variety of health service facilities.

These students are now eligible to take the Virginia Board of Nursing examination leading to licensing as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

For more information about practical nursing at NRCC, visit www.nr.edu/pn.
Time spent in nature is believed to benefit humans health. To encourage more time outdoors and foster mental healing, two quite diverse agencies are partnering to provide Forest Fridays.

This summer, Mount Rogers Community Services and Hungry Mother State Park have united forces to provide services in the ultimate healing environment.

Ginny Moorer serves as a trauma recovery coordinator for Mount Rogers. She said the agency is always looking at how we can help build better and more resilient communities.

Earlier this year, Moorer said, the Mount Rogers staff wanted to develop a project that could engage all parts of the community and help members lean on and learn from another. Aware of Southwest Virginias incredible natural resources, Moorer said, they reached out to Hungry Mother and found its staff was eager to help.

Both agencies staff members knew that the Japanese culture has long practiced periods of forest bathing, which is simply spending time in nature and taking it in through the senses. In the 1990s, researchers found that as little as five hours a month can offer measurable health benefits.

An article shared by the National Institutes of Health reported on a 2015 study that found after forest bathing the middle-aged male participants had significantly reduced pulse rate and significantly increased the score for vigor and decreased the scores for depression, fatigue, anxiety, and confusion.

Moorer noted that Hungry Mother has, in the past, participated in ParkRx, a program that helps health and social service providers to write prescriptions for time in nature.

With all this information, Mount Rogers and Hungry Mother created Forest Fridays, which provides five hour-long informed sessions that help participants enjoy the benefits of time in nature.

The practices, Moorer said, are largely informal but designed to help participants recognize their interconnectedness with nature.

Moorers team collaborated with the park interpretative staff to develop the programs and lead the sessions jointly.

Savannah Stephenson, an education support specialist for the park, said, Forest Fridays help people connect to the world around us.

In this time when people seem so disconnected, Stephenson believes this program helps them reconnect.

As an interpreter, she said, much of her job is to bring nature to people in a way that they can understand.

While Mount Rogers clients can take part in Forest Fridays, the program is also open to members of the community and park visitors. Anyone of any age or ability can take part, Moorer said. To help participants, parking is free for program participants who just have to let park contact station staffers know theyre taking part.

This month, the program takes place every Friday from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. Participants will meet at parking lot 2, which is the smaller one across from the former restaurant.

While Moorer encourages people to take part in as many sessions as possible, she noted that each one is self-contained and can be enjoyed on its own.

The program does follow the 5 bridges to wellness approach developed by Jacob Moore, the founder of NoStigmas, a mental health nonprofit. The5bridges.com says, This evidence-informed system is the result of two decades of research, clinical opinion, lived expertise, and experimentation.

The five bridges are Bond - How You Connect, Fuel - What Goes In, Move - What You Do, Rest - When You Recover, and Give - Your Positive Output.

Moorer said that Mount Rogers Community Services has been using this approach with positive health outcomes in our region for several years now.

The system, she said, has been implemented in schools, business, non-profit organizations, and inpatient and out-patient facilities. More than 10,000 individuals have been served to datewith over 5,000 in Virginia Community Service Agencies alone, Moorer said.

Each Forest Friday focuses on a different bridge.

Moorer encouraged anyone who is interested to attend a session and connect with other people who are interested in being their best.

Moorer hopes the program can be expanded to include other parks in the region. We have such a beautiful and amazing place, she said.

Stephenson likes seeing the park giving back to the community and recognizing it as a tool for health and wellness.

She too urged people to give Forest Fridays a try, saying, See what nature has to offer us for mental health and wellness.
PORTLAND  Five years after Brian Spauldings parents found him fatally shot in the home he shared with roommates, his slaying remains a mystery that seems increasingly unlikely to be solved as Portland, Oregon, police confront a spike in killings and more than 100 officer vacancies.

The detective assigned to investigate the death of Spaulding  a chiropractic assistant who didnt do drugs, wasnt in a gang and lived close to the house where he was born  left in 2020 in a wave of retirements and the detective assigned to it now is swamped with fresh cases after Portlands homicide rate surged 207% since 2019.

To us, its not a cold case, said George Spaulding, who has his sons signature tattooed on his arm. Were not dissatisfied with the Police Bureau because I think theyre doing the best they can, he said. They are just overwhelmed. Its insane.

From Philadelphia to Portland to Los Angeles, killings and gun violence are rising at the same time officers worn out by the pandemic and disillusioned over the calls to divest from policing that followed George Floyds murder are quitting or retiring faster than they can be replaced.

Departments are scrambling to recruit in a tight labor market and also rethinking what services they can provide and what role police should play in their communities. Many have shifted veteran officers to patrol, breaking up specialized teams built over decades in order to keep up with 911 calls.

Were getting more calls for service and there are fewer people to answer them, said Philadelphia Police spokesperson Eric Gripp, whose department has been rotating employees from specialty units for short assignments to increase patrols. This isnt just an issue in Philadelphia. Departments all over are down and recruitment has been difficult.

Los Angeles, which is down more than 650 officers from its pre-pandemic staffing level, shuttered its animal cruelty unit and downsized its human trafficking, narcotics and gun details and reduced its homeless outreach teams by 80%. Seattle recently announced $2 million in hiring bonuses and benefits to lure recruits amid a critical officer shortage that has hampered the investigation of serious crimes.

The pinch has led some cities to experiment to reduce strain on patrol officers.

Portland recently added unarmed public support specialists to take reports on things like vehicle break-ins and bike thefts, and in San Diego, licensed psychiatric clinicians go to mental health calls with officers.

For me, I wonder, what the profession is going to be 20 years from now if were having these challenges on a nationwide scale. Are we going to be able to recruit enough people to serve our cities? asked Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell, whose force has lost 237 sworn officers through retirements or resignations since 2020.

Portland logged a record 89 homicides last year  roughly three times its historical average  and is on pace to top that this year after already tallying more than 50. A report completed for the city last month by the California Partnership for Safe Communities found it had the largest homicide rate increase among similarly sized cities and 75% of homicides in 2020 were by gun. The city has seen nearly 800 shootings this year.

That follows a national trend. While non-violent crime decreased during the pandemic, the murder rate increased nearly 30% in 2020 and the rate of assaults went up 10%, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

Its unclear whats driving the surge, but COVID-19 created huge social disruption and upended government and community support systems. Gun sales also spiked during the pandemic.

Experts say widely cited theories that violent crime is worse in places that changed policing tactics in the wake of protests over Floyds murder dont bear out. Violent crime has increased in red and blue communities alike, regardless of their approach.

The problem is you see cities where they didnt do any of those things where crime also went up and youll see rural areas where crime also went up as well, said Ben Struhl, executive director of the Crime and Justice Policy Lab at the University of Pennsylvania.

Theres a lot of evidence that something bigger is going on than the social justice protests that happened, and its probably more than one thing, said Struhl, whose center has worked with Baltimore, Philadelphia and Oakland to reduce gun violence.

In Portland, gun violence once largely limited to historically marginalized neighborhoods has spread to the downtown core and more affluent areas. Last month, an Uber driver was seriously wounded and his passenger killed in an unsolved shooting.

Jeremiah King, who is transitioning out of homelessness, was shot while trying to protect a friend who was being attacked just a short walk from the citys business district.

He turned around and pulled a pistol out and I didnt see it. I didnt feel anything at first but 10 seconds later I could hardly breathe, King said as he sat on street after three nights in the hospital. I thought I was going to pass away.

After Kings shooting, three more people were injured and two killed by gunfire in the same area over a four-day span.

To address the violence, Portlands police chief broke up specialized units to bolster patrol numbers and moved detectives from assault, cold case and gun violence units to create a third eight-person homicide squad. That effectively stopped investigations into about 300 unsolved slayings going back decades, although Lovell says those investigations will resume when staffing levels return.

Still, Brian Spauldings parents now must consider the possibility that one day no one will be assigned to his case. Their son, who would be 41 now, was a free spirit whose interests ranged from jiu jitsu to home-brewed beer to heavy metal  although he also was a sustaining member of the local classical radio station.

Brians mother sees a twisted silver lining in the violence on Portlands streets.

I keep thinking that with all of the gun violence thats going on, they might be able to get a gun that matches the gun that killed Brian, said Carolyn Spaulding, as she clutched a teddy bear made of scraps from his high school graduation quilt.

That gun violence has also spread outside Portland, to the suburban city of Gresham, Oregon.

Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg has seen 16 officers leave in his 10 months on the job and all of his detectives are handling homicide investigations as gun violence soars.

Conversations around police reform are important work and its an opportunity for us to better serve our community  but that said, as you transition to any of those new programs  which takes a while sometimes  you still have to be providing the basic services, Gullberg said.

For now, eight officers patrol a city of 115,000 people on a typical evening shift and must constantly make decisions about how to deploy limited resources.

On a recent night, police Sgt. Travis Garrison spotted a car with no plates driving erratically. The driver appeared high, probably on methamphetamine, and the passenger was almost comatose, with bloody track marks on his arm.

The driver had a suspended license, but the vehicle wasnt stolen and no one had an outstanding warrant. Garrison warned the driver to leave the car and find a ride home, and then headed to his next call. It would have taken hours to complete the testing necessary to prove the drivers meth use, Garrison said, and with officers depleted, the traffic stop wasnt a priority.

Right now, because of the the spike in violent crime, were only able to investigate murders, child abuse and sex crimes, he said. Were triaging.

But what law enforcement says is a staffing crisis could actually be a case of misdirected resources, said Christy Lopez, co-director of Georgetown Law Schools Center for Innovations in Community Safety.

And in some departments, police have sworn in new recruits this year, although the numbers arent keeping up with attrition, they say.

You really cant take it at face value when a department says you need more police officers. You need to look at a staffing audit: What are your police officers doing? What are they unable to do? It might mean that you actually need another Boys and Girls Club, not more officers, she said.

Understaffed departments sometimes shift detectives to patrol because of political pressure, but research shows solving violent crime depresses crime rates more effectively than putting rank-and-file officers on the street, Lopez said.

There may be some places where we need more police, but Im fairly convinced from the evidence that Ive seen over the decades that that cant be the answer everywhere.

Some have celebrated the downsizing, including homeless advocates in Los Angeles, where four out of five homeless outreach teams were disbanded.

Police should be nowhere around outreach. You cant be the provider of services as well as the jailer, said Pete White, the founder and executive director of the Los Angeles Community Action Network. My hope ... is that those resources that go to the police department are actually pointed towards real solutions.

Still many others are fed up with perceived lack of action by police.

In Philadelphia, where the department is down 550 officers from pre-pandemic staffing and another 860 are on medical leave or restricted duty, City Councilwoman Maria Quinones-Sanchez said there are more than 30,000 complaints about abandoned cars awaiting police action. One of the worst areas is in her district where the cars block sidewalks and make the narrower streets impassable.

Officers normally assigned to a unit dealing with neighborhood issues have been shifted to the city center and violent hot spots around Philadelphia, where the homicide rate reached a record high last year.

The abandoned cars bring trash in the areas, then you know other crimes, quality of life issues, drug dealing, shootings, killings, said Kimberly Washington, executive director of the Frankford Community Development Corporation. This starts to look like the place where this can all go down because no one cares.

Royal Harris knows what thats like.

Growing up in Portlands gang territory in the 1990s, his brother, two first cousins, two second cousins and numerous friends were shot to death  and many of those cases remain unsolved.

Harris supports the temporary shut-down of the citys cold case unit if it means police can close fresh cases, even though it takes resources from solving his own loved ones slayings.

Under the current climate, somebodys going to feel cheated, and we have to be honest with that. The question is, who do we cheat? he said. These hard decisions (have) to be made to stop this.
SKAMOKAWA  As of Monday afternoon, search teams had not found two swimmers who went missing Saturday from Vista Park west of Cathlamet, according to the Wahkiakum County Sheriffs Office.

Just after noon on Saturday, a camper reported three men had been swimming in the Columbia River and were out of sight, according to the sheriffs office. A civilian pulled one man, who was alive, to shore.

The sheriffs office, Cathlamet Ambulance, Skamokawa Aid and Wahkiakum Search and Rescue, Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, Washington State Patrol and participants from a sailboat race in the area responded to search for the missing swimmers. The U.S. Coast Guard also joined but called off the search as of Monday, according to the sheriffs office. Family members were still searching in the area Monday afternoon.

The men, in their mid-20s and from Guatemala, had been camping in the park, according to the sheriffs office.
Men and women who were exonerated, along with Guevara accusers, family, attorneys and supporters pose for a group photo after talking to reporters following a hearing at Leighton Criminal Court Building on Aug. 9, 2022. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

His father died while Nelson Gonzalez was in prison. Alfredo Gonzalez couldnt go to his daughters wedding. And Marilyn Mulero missed out on her two childrens childhoods.

Its been hard  I lost my brother, Mulero added, her voice breaking. He was my strength.

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These are three of the Chicago families affected by murder convictions tainted by allegations of misconduct by former Chicago police Detective Reynaldo Guevara.

In a historic move Tuesday, judges overturned seven murder convictions in a single day. Many of the exonerees have spent decades in prison for slayings that took place between 1989 and 1996.

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Nelson Gonzalez talks with reporters at the Leighton Criminal Court Building following a hearing on Aug. 9, 2022. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

The Cook County states attorneys office had filed motions in the seven cases and an eighth to be heard at the Leighton Criminal Court Building. In an unprecedented move, States Attorney Kim Foxx announced at a news conference Tuesday morning that prosecutors can no longer stand by these convictions, leading to the mass dismissal.

Rebuilding the community trust in our justice system requires that when we find an injustice, we work diligently to correct it, Foxx said. Today marks another step in that process at the Cook County states attorneys office.

Exonerees, family members and supporters spoke with reporters after the court hearings. Emotions ran high as people cheered, cried and hugged. Some were holding signs showing the faces of Guevara accusers.

Mulero spoke as the first woman to have a conviction overturned due to allegations of misconduct by Guevara.

I had to be a strong individual because I had two toddlers when I was incarcerated. I had to fight for them. I had to be strong for them, Mulero said, wiping tears from her eyes.

Marilyn Mulero, who served 28 years for a 1992 arrest, at the Leighton Criminal Court Building following a hearing on Aug. 9, 2022. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

She served 28 years in prison  including five years on death row  and was released in April 2020.

Theres other women out there that are incarcerated, that are innocent, that I will keep fighting for, just like our other Guevara victims that are in there, she added.

Tuesdays development marks 31 convictions overturned since 2016 in connection to Guevaras alleged misconduct, claims that range from manipulating witnesses to fabricating evidence.

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Alfredo Gonzalezs family, who was at the courthouse for the hearings Tuesday, was itching to see him. He had been serving a life sentence after his arrest in 1990.

Weve been waiting for a very long time. My dad got taken away from us when I was 3, my brother was 7, his daughter Maria Gonzalez said. We are just ready to drive over there and pick him up.

Nelson Gonzalez, who was exonerated, embraces his attorney Jennifer Bonjean outside the Leighton Criminal Court Building following a hearing on Aug. 9, 2022. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

Nelson Gonzalez, who served 22 years and was released in 2016, called on Foxx to seek charges against Guevara.

This was a conspiracy created by Mr. Guevara and other agents. And Im asking Kim Foxx to press charges, to pursue, to prosecute not only Guevara, but the other CPD agents that helped him convict these individuals, he said. They created a chaos within many families. And were not going to stop. Were going to keep going. Were going to keep pushing, were going to keep pushing.

Gonzalez said he plans on going back to school to study criminal justice.

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I would love to be a lawyer, he said. I know what the journey is, so I can speak from both sides. So, thats what Im gonna be focused on, and family, and making sure my moms OK, and continue to help the community. Im not going to give up just because I was vindicated.

The other men exonerated Tuesday included Carlos Andino, who had been serving a 60-year sentence, Johnny Flores, who served 20 years, and Jaime Rios, who served 18 years. David Colons conviction was vacated last month after having served 26 years in prison.

Johnny Flores, right, and Daniel Rodriguez greet each other during a gathering to celebrate seven murder convictions overturned because of misconduct by former Chicago police Detective Reynaldo Guevara, at a restaurant on Aug. 9, 2022, in Schiller Park. Rodriguez, who was exonerated in April 2022 for a 1991 murder, and Flores, who was exonerated Tuesday, are two of 31 people whose convictions have been overturned since 2016 in connection to Guevara's alleged misconduct. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune)

The conviction of an eighth Guevara accuser, Louis Robinson, was not thrown out Tuesday. Robinson is still serving a 60-year sentence after his arrest in 1996. He remains in custody pending further court proceedings, Foxx said in a news release.

Louis Robinson, you know we will continue to fight for you, Mulero said. Today was the day that wasnt your day, but your day is going to come. It is coming.

At the states attorneys office news conference, Foxx said Guevara had repeatedly pleaded the Fifth Amendment right not to incriminate himself and then when asked questions, was not truthful. She added that her office hasnt actively pursued charges against Guevara yet.

Our first priority was ensuring that we could stand by these convictions, the next step of that: Were going to review these cases, and also review the possibility for charges where appropriate, she said.

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Foxx pointed out that there might also be issues with the statute of limitations to prosecute the former detective.

She also spoke about the pain of those who lost family members to the homicides. Guevaras alleged misconduct, she said, hurts them too.

To lose a loved one is difficult enough  and to lose a loved one to violence. And to believe that you have someone being held accountable, only to be told that conviction doesnt stand, is disheartening, Foxx said. (Guevaras) harm is not just to those who may have been imprisoned for crimes that they didnt commit, but to families who are looking for justice for the loss of their loved ones.

Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxx talks about her offices review of cases related to allegations of misconduct involving former CPD Detective Reynaldo Guevara on Aug. 9, 2022. (Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune)

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Looking ahead, Foxx said three other cases will be reviewed in the coming weeks. If those convictions  and Robinsons  are tossed, it would bring the tally for vindicated Guevara accusers up to 35.

We expect to resolve additional cases with similar court action in the upcoming weeks, Foxx said. We also anticipate that more individuals may come forward, and we will review their cases as they come.

What do we want? Mulero asked before leaving the mic setup at Leighton Criminal Court Building.

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Justice! the group of supporters, families and exonerees behind her responded.

When do we want it?

Now!

adperez@chicagotribune.com
CATHLAMET  State crews anticipated a roughly 10-acre wildfire burning about 5 miles east of Cathlamet would be fully contained Monday evening thanks to recent cooler temperatures. Officials expect the fire was human caused.

At about 1 a.m. Sunday, Wahkiakum County Sheriffs deputies responded to a call of shots fired in the area and found a fire, but no shooter, said Jeff Bortner, Washington State Department of Natural Resources regional wildland fire district manager.

The exact cause of the fire is under investigation, Bortner said. Experts say bullet fragments can be hot and ignite nearby materials.

Wahkiakum Fire District 4, Fire District 1, Fire District 2, Cathlamet Fire Department, Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue and DNR crews responded to the fire, referred to as the Cape Horn fire. Bortner said after the initial response, crews paused firefighting until around 5:30 a.m. because of steep terrain and dangerous conditions.

A strong onshore flow Monday brought lower temperatures and higher relative humidity, helping the firefighters suppress the blaze, Bortner said. The fire was expected to be 100% contained Monday evening, which means control lines  like manmade or natural barriers  would surround the fire to keep it from spreading. Bortner said crews will work another full shift before the fire is controlled and will then check on it daily over the next couple weeks to make sure it is out.

The fire and response fully blocked Route 4, or Ocean Beach Highway, from about 1:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday, according to Washington State Department of Transportation. The road reopened Sunday night. Bortner advised drivers to be aware of rolling debris loosened by the fire that may come into the road, especially following the first rains.

The fire isnt the regions largest this season but is the most significant blaze in the past few weeks, Bortner said. In late June, the Johns River fire in Grays Harbor County burned about 76 acres. Most other fires in the region have been 2 acres or less, Bortner said.

Bortner encouraged people to take precautions when using anything that generates a spark.

Were in the heat of fire season now, he said. Were seeing an uptick in fire activity across western Washington and statewide.

The National Weather Service issued a local red flag warning, from 2 p.m. Saturday to 8 p.m. Sunday due to the hot, dry and windy weather creating favorable conditions for rapid fire spread in the extreme south Washington cascades and foothills, as well as the North Oregon Cascade Foothills and Mt. Hood National Forest West of Cascade Crest.

In eastern Washington, DNR crews are responding to three larger fires that have prompted evacuations.
TOLEDO  The Lewis County Sheriffs Office is temporarily providing law enforcement services to the Toledo area after the citys police chief left the position and a possible policing contract with the Napavine Police Department fell through last month.

We are working on (acquiring) our own police chief, Toledo Mayor Steve Dobosh told The Chronicle on Wednesday.

The City of Toledo intends to make an announcement regarding its police department sometime this week.

Former Toledo Police Chief Sam Patrick left his position on July 6.

The City of Toledo had already been talking with the Napavine Police Department about contracting for police services in Toledo, but Patricks departure accelerated that discussion, according to Napavine Police Chief John Brockmueller.

The police services contract was the sole item on the agenda for a July 27 meeting of the Toledo City Council, but the City Council voted against approving the contract.

They just chose not to do it for their own reasons, Brockmueller said.

Brockmueller was chief of the Toledo Police Department for 15 years before he took over as Napavines police chief in October.

I wish the best for Toledo, he told The Chronicle on Thursday.

Short of a police chief, and with one of Toledos two police officers taking a job at the Napavine Police Department, the Toledo Police Department has not been operational since Aug. 1.

Lewis County Sheriff Rob Snaza said he found out about the situation with Toledo when his office was dispatched to a Toledo-area call on Monday.

I dont know what the fix is, Snaza said of Toledos policing situation.

Until theres another solution, the Lewis County Sheriffs Office will continue responding to calls in the Toledo area, Snaza said.

The Lewis County Sheriffs Office, Napavine Police Department and Winlock Police Department are currently helping cover calls in Toledo, reads a public notice posted on the City of Toledos website.

Anyone in need of a police officer should call 911, the notice reads, adding, Do not call the police department business line or city hall to report a crime or suspicious activity.
Editor's note: This story includes references to self-harm.

On the evening of Feb. 11, three teenage patients at BHC Fairfax Hospital in Kirkland found their way to a secluded area of the psychiatric facility's courtyard.

Among them was a 15-year-old girl and a 13-year-old nonbinary patient, who both had histories of sexual abuse and were deemed at risk of being victimized. With them was a 16-year-old boy, who had been displaying sexual behavior and wasn't supposed to be allowed outside.

Each patient was documented to be inside the hospital during this time on Fairfax's observation charts, but they were actually behind the bushes in the darkened courtyard. As a hospital staffer sat on a bench with his back to them and eyes on an electronic device, the three patients engaged in a sex act.

The incident was among the reasons why the Washington Department of Health declared an "immediate risk to patient safety" and briefly stopped Fairfax from admitting adolescent patients to its Kirkland campus in April. It was also part of a pattern of violations that DOH has documented at the state's largest private psychiatric hospital since the spring of 2021, according to records reviewed by The Seattle Times.

Fairfax closed its adolescent inpatient unit the month after DOH's enforcement action, citing "current patient demand and demographics."

Christopher West, chief executive of Fairfax Behavioral Health, said by email that the hospital conducted an internal investigation into the incident on Feb. 11, and that "retraining was conducted with identified staff to reinforce vigilance." He didn't respond to a question about whether regulatory violations played a role in the hospital's decision to close the adolescent unit.

A DOH investigator last year questioned how Fairfax determines if patients can consent to sexual encounters, given that they've been admitted for not being able to make safe decisions. A staffer responded that this was for law enforcement to determine, not the hospital, according to DOH's report.

One way to stop patients from sexually acting out is to check on them more frequently, but that often means a need for more staff on hand. A Fairfax nurse told investigators in the spring of 2021 that increasing a patient's observation "alters the budget" and had become increasingly difficult, DOH records show.

DOH began its latest investigation after receiving three complaints in February and March that alleged different cases of sexual abuse of adolescents.

Department investigators arrived at Fairfax on April 6 and found a series of violations, from failing to reassess patients for suicidal risk to not implementing plans to prevent sexual abuse.

Each of the patients involved in the sexual encounter was noted by staff to have engaged in "inappropriate sexual behavior" in the days leading up to the incident, according to the DOH report, but no plan of care was put in place to address the risks until afterward.

Fairfax's policy is to conduct rounds on patients at least every 15 minutes, verifying where they are and what they are doing, as is common for psychiatric hospitals. The observation record shows that, at 7 p.m. on Feb. 11, the 13-year-old nonbinary patient was in a hallway, the 15-year-old female was in a common room, and the 16-year-old boy's whereabouts were, to DOH's review, illegible.

But according to an incident report and video footage cited in the DOH report, they were all in the same place at that time  the darkened corner of the courtyard.

A Fairfax staffer told DOH that the patients were coming in and out of the unit, which explained the "discrepancies." The investigator's review of the video, however, showed that each entered the courtyard at 6:52 p.m. and returned inside at 7:30 p.m.

Much of the 68-page report focuses on risks to patients in Fairfax's now-closed adolescent unit. An investigator found that one patient who was on "sexual aggression precautions" had been assigned a roommate who was on "sexual victimization precautions." A staff member acknowledged "They should not be in the same room."

The report also cited six patients for whom Fairfax didn't follow its policy on screening for suicide risk. One, a 13-year-old patient, told nursing staff she had thoughts of suicide and scratched her arm with broken glass. Fairfax staff apparently didn't notify a psychiatrist or search for contraband until the next day, when they found the patient "cutting her wrist and neck with a piece of broken glass from a nail polish bottle," according to DOH's report.

DOH's findings echoed serious violations that investigators had documented in the spring of 2021, when the regulator cited Fairfax for not taking steps to address or prevent teenage patients from engaging in sexual encounters and repeatedly harming themselves.

Faulting Fairfax for lapses that "resulted in a serious adverse outcome" and noting the pattern of violations, DOH investigators delivered a notice of "immediate risk to patient safety" to Fairfax's director of risk management on April 21. Two days later, DOH briefly halted admissions to the adolescent unit, using for the first time expanded enforcement powers granted to it by a 2020 law after a Seattle Times investigation into private psychiatric hospitals.

Fairfax, in response to DOH's findings, said it initiated new training and procedures, cut back the bushes in the courtyard and would no longer allow patients to be outside after dark.

DOH lifted the order stopping admissions to the adolescent unit after a few days, but warned Fairfax that "significant deficiencies remained uncorrected." Three weeks later, Fairfax said it would close the unit.

(c)2022 The Seattle Times

Visit The Seattle Times at www.seattletimes.com
The climate provisions of the U.S. Senate bill passed Sunday would create a slew of long-term federal tax breaks for proposed Washington solar farms, offer a $700 million investment in fuel technology sought by the developer of a next-generation Washington nuclear plant and broaden incentives for consumers to shift to electric cars and reduce fossil use in their homes.

All of this adds a substantial boost to a far-reaching effort by the state government to move Washington largely off fossil fuel energy by midcentury.

We now have a federal-state team to meet common goals, said Geoff Potter, deputy director of federal affairs for Gov. Jay Inslees office. Its an unprecedented scale of investment but also a range of investment.

The Senate bill, which is expected to gain approval from the House of Representatives later this week, helps define U.S. climate policy at a juncture in history when scientists say concerted global efforts are required to fend off the worst impacts of greenhouse gas pollution.

In the United States, national efforts to put a price on carbon pollution  or put other regulatory measures in place to move the nation off fossil fuels  have repeatedly failed, reflecting the deep political divide between Republicans and Democrats over what governments should do to address climate change.

The Senate bill passed Sunday without any Republican votes largely consists of financial incentives and investments totaling $369 billion in energy security and climate change programs.

That leaves the struggle to put a price on carbon pollution  long proposed by environmentalists as a key tool in making the difficult transition off fossils fuels  largely to state initiatives.

So far, carbon pricing has gotten the most traction in states with Democratic control like Washington, where Gov. Jay Inslee has worked with allies to pass major legislative measures.

These Washington state laws require power utilities by 2045 to shift off fossil fuels that release greenhouse gases, create an ever-lowering cap on greenhouse gas emissions that major polluters must meet, and also set up standards to reduce the carbon emissions in fuels for the transportation fleet.

The lesson of history is unequivocal in that there is absolute need in a substantive economic transformation for a carrot-and-stick approach, said state Sen. Reuven Carlyle, D-Seattle, who played a major role in developing state law to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and is leaving office at the end of this term.

Carlyle noted that the federal legislation does include a fee on a powerful greenhouse gas pollutant  methane  if flared without burning from oil and gas fields, and there could be other such fees on specific pollutants. But he doubts that systemwide carbon pricing at the federal level will be developed.

Becky Kelley, senior climate policy adviser to Inslee, said the Senate legislation would make it cheaper and easier for people to comply with state laws. It is complementary and will make the whole system work better, Kelley said.

The blueprint for Washingtons energy future is still a work in progress.

The Senate bill passed Sunday includes $700 million to help two developers of next-generation nuclear power plants with plans in Washington secure a specialized nuclear fuel that the U.S. currently lacks the capacity to produce.

Maryland-based X-energy and Bellevue-based TerraPower, founded by Bill Gates, use a fuel called HALEU  or high-assay, low-enriched uranium  which requires higher enrichment than fuels used in the current generation of nuclear power plants. The bill includes financial assistance to produce more of this fuel in the United States.

X-energy has proposed construction of four small reactors, each stocked with billiard-ball-sized pebbles packed with uranium fuel.

The project is proposed for development by 2028 at a Hanford site near the Energy Northwest nuclear power plant or possibly in Grant County. And about half of the $2.2 billion cost is projected to be covered by federal funding approved in earlier legislation.

The bill recognized a gap in the supply chain, and is necessary to develop the Central Washington reactor project, and others subsequent reactors, said a statement from X-energy that called the bill bold and transformational policy that also would offer clean energy tax credits for advanced nuclear energy.

The project has drawn criticism from Ed Lyman of the Union of Concerned Scientists, a nuclear watchdog that has questioned the safety of the technology and called for more safeguards in design and development.

For vehicle owners who may be considering a shift to electric cars, the bill offers long-term federal tax credits to all models of electric vehicles so long as they comply with provisions intended to encourage more of the battery and other automotive parts be produced in the United States.

This would replace a federal tax credit program that previously phased out as car manufacturers increased sales, and left popular models produced by Tesla and Chevy without any of this support.

The new bill offers a $4,000 tax credit for lower- and middle-income consumers to buy used electric or other zero-emission vehicles and up to $7,500 to buy new zero-emissions vehicles.

But there are plenty of questions about how this sweeping new federal tax credit program would work as some manufacturers are expected to have problems complying with the provisions intended to encourage U.S. production of batteries and other electric car parts.

Also, in the Seattle area, as well as other parts of the country, supply disruptions have combined with already strong demand for electric vehicles to create a scarcity.

We dont have any. If you want one, you got to get in line and wait, said Luk Blackwell, general manager of Bill Pierre Ford in Seattle, who said waiting time depends on configuration but varies from four months to a year and half.

They dont need more incentives. We need more product, Blackwell said.

In the years ahead, as more electric cars surge into the markets, some say that the federal tax credits should be much more targeted to offer greater incentives to those who now put the most miles on their vehicles, and thus have bigger carbon footprints.

That low-mileage driver is maybe more affluent, and you are giving them a hand to buy a car that would be a lot better off in the hands of someone who used it a lot more, said Matthew Metz, the Seattle-based founder of Coltura, a nonprofit that advocates for a transition to electric vehicles.

Metz said his organization reached out to senators to try to get a more targeted approach to the bill that offers more incentives to superusers.

We werent able to get much traction, Metz said.
While NASA is efficient in observing and keeping track of larger asteroids, it is the smaller ones which escape its vigilance. And that can be terrifying for the Earth. Find out the risk these tiny and sneaky space rocks pose.

Due to the constant vigilance of various NASA telescopes as well as observatories by other space agencies, today more than 29,000 dangerous asteroids in the solar system are being tracked. Observing these potentially hazardous asteroids helps the scientists prepare prediction models to assess their impact threat and prepare us for any countermeasures. Recently, the European Space Agency was able to use these models to eliminate the possibility of a particularly terrifying asteroid 2021 QM1 striking the planet in 2052. However, this entire system is efficient to a point. Larger asteroids are not a problem for our powerful telescopes as they can mostly be located and tracked, but when these space rocks go under 10 meters, that is when trouble for Earth starts. NASA, or others, are not really very good at spotting them and that can have disastrous consequences for us.

In February this year, an asteroid named 2022 EB5 was spotted striking the Earth near the coastal region of Iceland. Interestingly, the first time it was spotted was merely two hours before the impact. But by then, it was too late to do anything about it and the asteroid smashed into the ground. Luckily, it was just 2-meters wide and did not do much damage in an already remote landscape. But the situation can quickly turn scary if the scenario is changed slightly. If the asteroid had smashed into a densely populated city, a tragedy would would have taken place.

Tiny asteroids pose a different threat to the Earth and NASA can't spot them all

In 2013, a meteor exploded above the city of Chelyabinsk in Russia. It created a massive shockwave upon exploding above ground that created massive damage in an area 100s of kilometers wide. According to Russian authorities, around 1,400 people sought medical attention and 112 people were hospitalized as a result of it. The injuries were not caused directly by the shockwave but due to secondary blast effects like shattered glass, damaged infrastructure and more. And just like 2022 EB2, this asteroid was not spotted earlier either.

Tiny asteroids like 2022 EB5 are numerous, and they impact into the atmosphere quite frequently  roughly every 10 months or so. But very few of these asteroids have actually been detected in space and observed extensively prior to impact, basically because they are very faint until the last few hours, and a survey telescope has to observe just the right spot of sky at the right time for one to be detected, said Paul Chodas, the director of CNEOS at JPL, as quoted by NASA.

Now, the concern is, if NASA cannot spot these asteroids, then one of them can easily explode near or above a heavily populated area and can cause widespread death and damage. This terrifying fate is not a matter of if but when. So far, the Earth has been incredibly lucky because the Chelyabinsk incident is the worst one to have taken place in recent history. However, as one such asteroid crashes into the Earth every 10 months, escaping it forever might not be possible. Whether NASA develops a technology to spot and strike them down in space is something that remains to be seen.
Reza Shahbazian-Yassar with microscope. Credit: Jim Young/UIC

While scientists have hoped that rechargeable zinc-manganese dioxide batteries could be developed into a viable alternative for grid storage applications, engineers at the University of Illinois Chicago and their colleagues identified the reasons these zinc-based fuel systems fail.

The scientists reached this conclusion after leveraging advanced electron microscopy, electrochemical experiments and theoretical calculations to look closer at how the zinc anode works with the manganese cathode in the battery system.

Their findings are reported today in Nature Sustainability.

"Zinc and manganese separately have very favorable properties for high-quality sustainable batteries; however, when paired in a full system their intercalationtheir rechargeabilityhas been debatable, with some recent studies suggesting zinc insertion and deinsertion in manganese dioxide is responsible for the rechargeability of the cells," said study lead author Reza Shahbazian-Yassar, UIC professor of mechanical and industrial engineering in the College of Engineering.

"With this study, we showed there is actually no microscopic evidence of zinc reinsertion into manganese dioxide, and what was previously thought to be indicators of recharging was from positively charged hydrogen ions being inserted in the manganese, not zinc."

In their experiments, the researchers built aqueous zinc-manganese dioxide cells and tested them over 100 cycles. They discharged and attempted to recharge the batteries in experiments while using electron microscopy to capture atomic-level images of the reactions.

"We saw that the hydrogen is responsible for the damage to the tunnel structures of manganese dioxide, further reducing the potential of the battery for recharging," Shahbazian-Yassar said. "The information we've obtained with these experiments reveals important atomic insights into the mechanisms of the zinc-manganese battery. Now that we know what is happening at the cell level, we have a compass for finding better strategies."

Shahbazian-Yassar said different cell structures could make the system more favorable for zinc insertion or maybe strategies to harness the hydrogen protons.

Explore further Researchers peer into atom-sized tunnels in hunt for better battery

More information: Yifei Yuan et al, Understanding intercalation chemistry for sustainable aqueous zincmanganese dioxide batteries, Nature Sustainability (2022). Journal information: Nature Sustainability Yifei Yuan et al, Understanding intercalation chemistry for sustainable aqueous zincmanganese dioxide batteries,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41893-022-00919-3
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Members of the Indiana House of Representatives stand for the Pledge of Allegiance before a vote is held on Senate Bills 1 and 2 during special session Aug. 5, 2022, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. On Friday, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, a Republican, signed into law a wide-reaching ban on abortion  the nations first of its kind since the overturn of Roe v. Wade. (Jenna Watson/The Indianapolis Star)

Calling Illinois an oasis for abortion rights, Gov. J.B. Pritzker put out the welcome sign Monday for businesses looking to expand outside of states like Indiana that adopt new abortion restrictions.

Pritzkers comments came after Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Co. said it will reassess its business in Indiana.

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Already Ive reached out to companies that are affected in Indiana, Pritzker said. I want to make sure that they know that theyre welcome in Illinois. Any expansion that they may be looking to do, that we welcome their employees. We treat workers here well and, very importantly, we protect their individual rights and their families rights.

Every state around us, unfortunately, has now banned or significantly, severely limited womens reproductive rights, he said Monday at a news conference in Chicago.

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At the same news conference, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said theres a tremendous opportunity for the city and state to reach out to companies such as Eli Lilly that have policies that dont match up with some of the anti-abortion states they operate in.

Chicagos always going to be a city that respects women and their decisions and making sure that we and they all have access to reproductive health care, because it makes sense, Lightfoot said. It is the right thing to do.

On Friday, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, a Republican, signed into law a wide-reaching ban on abortion  the nations first of its kind since the overturn of Roe v. Wade. The law, which goes into effect Sept. 15, has exceptions, for cases of rape and incest before 10 weeks post-fertilization; to protect the life and physical health of the mother; and if a fetus is diagnosed with a lethal anomaly.

Demonstrators stand outside the House chamber before a vote is held on Senate Bill 1 during a special session, Aug. 5, 2022, at the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis. On Friday, Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, a Republican, signed into law a wide-reaching ban on abortion  the nations first of its kind since the overturn of Roe v. Wade. (Jenna Watson/The Indianapolis Star)

Lilly and Co., which employs 10,400 people at its headquarters in Indianapolis, said the law will hinder Lillys  and Indianas  ability to attract diverse scientific, engineering and business talent from around the world.

While we have expanded our employee health plan coverage to include travel for reproductive services unavailable locally, that may not be enough for some current and potential employees, the company said in a statement Saturday.

Given this new law, we will be forced to plan for more employment growth outside our home state, it said.

The Indiana ban also will likely drive more women to Illinois for the procedure, activists said, possibly increasing wait times.

The Illinois House of Representatives has established a working group to figure out how to improve capacity at abortion clinics. Pritzker, a Democrat, said the state needs to make sure there are a sufficient number of health care professionals for the procedures.

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Kristen Schultz, chief strategy and operations officer for Planned Parenthood of Illinois, said that passage of the new Indiana abortion law was devastating.

Were outraged, she said. The impact will be significant.

She expected that several thousand more women, possibly 10 times as many as in the past, may come from Indiana to Illinois for abortions, based on the experience with patients from other states that restricted abortion, such as Wisconsin and Ohio.

The increased usage may create longer wait times for services. In southern Illinois, wait times at some abortion clinics increased from three or four days to three weeks.

Planned Parenthood of Illinois, which operates 17 health centers, mostly in the Chicago area, has expanded access to handle the increase, Schultz said.

Previously, the organization provided abortions to about 1,200 women from out of state annually. In the first month since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June and ruled there was no constitutional right to the procedure, the rate of abortions for out-of-state residents increased by eight times.

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The ruling and changes in state law create confusion, Schultz said, so that some women left their home states even before the bans took effect.

The net effect, she said, is to create more barriers to access, since more women will have to take off work, travel, and get lodging or, in some cases, child care.

Eric Scheidler, executive director of the Chicago-based Pro-Life Action League, warned there may be more cases of child predators taking girls to Illinois to get abortions with no parental notification required.

He cited the case of a former middle school principal in Fort Wayne, Indiana, who impregnated a 17-year-old high school student, and drove her to a Planned Parenthood in Chicago to get an abortion, according to press accounts of the court affidavit.

He also hoped the courts would not allow Illinois Medicaid to pay for abortions for out-of-state residents, despite recent efforts to provide that.

An executive order by President Joe Biden last week would let states use Medicaid to help pay for abortions for out-of-state residents in cases of rape, incest or medical emergencies.

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Pritzkers office did not immediately comment on an Associated Press report that Missouri House Democratic Minority Leader Crystal Quade called on Illinois to apply for Medicaid waivers to do just that.

After the Indiana law was approved, area legislators and groups in the Hoosier State reacted along party lines with Democrats reminding people that abortion is still legal for another month and Republicans hailing it as a first step.

Members of the Indiana House of Representative listen to a debate before a vote on Senate Bill 1 during special session on Aug. 5, 2022, at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. (Jenna Watson/The Indianapolis Star)

State Sen. Ed Charbonneau, R-Valparaiso, said the abortion ban is a starting point for Indiana to become a more pro-life state.

While this bill does not protect all babies, it is a step forward for the pro-life movement and provides room for Indiana to continue making strides. I plan to work on legislation next session that would allow pharmacists to prescribe contraceptives to customers. I hope for a future where there are no unwanted pregnancies by expanding sex education for young people and allowing easier access to contraceptives, Charbonneau said.

State Sen. Michael Griffin, D-Highland, said the passage of the bill left him deeply concerned for the women of our state and for Indianas future.

I fear that we have elevated a singular faith position above all others. My faith and beliefs  while earnestly and deeply held  should not be a legal basis for the choices of others. Senate Bill 1 is an imposition on religious freedom and exercise, and a deeply troubling governmental overreach into individuals most private matters and decisions, Griffin said.

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After Roe v. Wade was overturned, Holcomb previously said he would be willing to support legislation that made progress in protecting life. 

These actions followed long days of hearings filled with sobering and personal testimony from citizens and elected representatives on this emotional and complex topic. Ultimately, those voices shaped and informed the final contents of the legislation and its carefully negotiated exceptions to address some of the unthinkable circumstances a woman or unborn child might face, Holcomb said in a statement Friday.

The Associated Press contributed.

jgorner@chicagotribune.com

rmccoppin@chicagotribune.com

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akukulka@chicagotribune.com
Phillip Young was sworn in as the new chief of the Rocky Mount Police Department at Monday evenings town council meeting, just days before his official start date next week.

Judge Tim Allen recited the oath of office for Young, shortly after praising the town council for their decision. I believe that the town council has made an excellent choice in regards to Phillip, he said.

Young was formerly a captain with the Franklin County Sheriffs Office before accepting the open chief position last month. He was one of more than 20 applicants for the position, according to Town Manager Robert Wood last month.

Chief of the Rocky Mount Police Department will be the newest position for Young, a lifelong Franklin County resident and longtime officer. He was a member of the Franklin County Sheriffs Office for 24 years. He also served as a police officer, and police chief, for the the Ferrum College Police Department before joining the sheriffs office.

Im very excited to be here and serve the citizens that I have known all my life, Young said. I appreciate the opportunity.

Following Mondays town council meeting, Young said one of his top goals for the department is state accreditation through the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission. State accreditation shows that a department complies with several state standards and is seen as a mark of excellence for departments.

We are going to make that a priority, Young said.

Young oversaw the initial accreditation of the Franklin County Sheriffs Office in 2014. He also oversaw the required re-accreditations every four years after.

Young said he also plans to work with Wood and the town council on a pay plan for officers. He said an increased pay scale will help in, not only retaining officers, but also bringing in new officers to the department.
LAUREL  The man accused in the killings of four Laurel residents last week had his bail set at $5 million.

Cedar County Judge Douglas Luebe set bail after he found there was probable cause for authorities to arrest Jason Jones, 42, who is accused of killing Gene Twiford, 86, Janet Twiford, 85, Dana Twiford, 55, and Michele Ebeling, 53, last Thursday.

Luebe, in a written court order, said Jones is considered an extreme danger to public safety. Jones must post 10% of the bail amount, or $500,000, to be released from custody while the case against him is pending.

He is charged with 10 felonies, including four counts each of first-degree murder and use of a firearm to commit a felony and two counts of first-degree arson.

According to an affidavit, a man called 911 about 3:30 a.m. Thursday after he reported hearing an explosion that occurred at 209 Elm St. Laurel Fire and EMS arrived at the home and located a woman, identified as Ebeling, lying inside the back door of the residence. She was pronounced dead at the scene after lifesaving attempts were unsuccessful.

Ebeling appeared to have suffered two gunshot wounds, police said, and a bullet casing was found near her body.

A fire also appeared to have occurred inside the residence after burn marks were observed on the floor, walls and furniture, according to the affidavit. The smell of smoke and gasoline also was present at the time.

Shortly after the first incident was reported, a 911 call was made regarding smoke coming from a residence at 503 Elm.

While discovering soot damage consistent with a fire, first responders also found three people  identified as the Twifords  inside the residence, and all appeared to have gunshot wounds. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

Inside Ebelings residence, authorities said they located a backpack with several receipts with the last four digits of Jones credit card number on them. The receipts indicated that purchases were made for a 6-gallon automatic shut-off gas can, a fuel tank and a camping backpack.

At the Twiford residence, law enforcement located a pistol. The weapons serial number was traced and linked to Jones.

After obtaining a warrant for Jones arrest, authorities in the early morning hours Friday entered Jones home, which is across the street from Ebelings residence. Jones was taken into custody and discovered to have serious burn injuries. He was later airlifted to a Lincoln hospital.

Cody Thomas, public relations director for the Nebraska State Patrol, said Jones was still hospitalized Monday morning. An initial court appearance will be scheduled once Jones is discharged from the hospital.
A Nebraska electric vehicle charging infrastructure plan is in the works.

The plan was detailed at Mondays meeting of the Grand Island Area Metropolitan Planning Organization technical advisory committee. Its a new program, Craig Wacker, Nebraska Department of Transportation highway planning manager, told the committees city officials and community leaders.

A draft of the plan has been submitted to Federal Highway Administration following a six-month study period that started in February.

The program is funded through the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and its National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula program, which, among other goals, aims to promote fast-charging stations along alternative-fuel corridors.

Nebraska is getting $6 million yearly for the next five years through the bill. Nebraskas alt-fuel corridors have been designated for past several years, said Wacker.

Within the state of Nebraska the corridors are basically (Interstate 80) and then Highway 6 running from the river back down to I-80 through Gretna. Its the Omaha area of Highway 6, he said.

Alternative fuel corridor build-up is the programs first priority.

Before we can really reach out and spend this money elsewhere in the state, those areas have to be built out, said Wacker.

Build-out consists of: four DC fast-chargers per location, with chargers no more than 50 miles apart in any corridor. Funding for fast-chargers is an 80%/20% federal and local funding split.

One difficulty is theres little guidance on public/private partnerships. The funds are not restricted to state or city exclusively owning them, said Wacker.

We can fund those kinds of situations, but we can also fund these charging stations at local gas stations, he said.

This includes partnerships with such companies as Caseys, Loves or Bosselman, which is unique for federal funds and for funds being administered by the state, said Wacker.

How thats all going to shake out is still a little up in the air because frankly five months wasnt enough for us to get that sorted out very well, he said.

The funds cannot go to a Tesla station, Wacker noted.

It has to be to a unified charging station, he said. Teslas use the other ones with an adapter plug, but a regular car cant go to a Tesla station and use it.

He added, Basically, we cant fund Tesla.

A DC fast-charger costs roughly $500,000.

Theyre expensive as they require special lines for summoning up large quantities of power very quickly, said Wacker.

Theyre sitting there completely idle, not sucking any kind of power, but as soon as you plug them in theyre sucking a lot of power real fast, he said. To have the transmission lines that can handle going from zero to that and back to zero is expensive.

While I-80 is not far from being built out, a charger is needed between Lincoln and Grand Island, and possibly for the 65-mile distance between Lincoln and Omaha, said Wacker.

We do have more chargers out there than people realize, he said. Some of that was due to the VW scandal money that came into the state. That was the way the state spend it, was to put in electric charging stations.

The Volkswagen Clean Air Act Civil Settlement of 2017 provided $2.7 billion for environmental programs to reduce carbon emissions, and $2 billion for development of non-polluting cars and supporting infrastructure.

Nebraska received $11.5 million for mitigation programs.

These funds were used to help provide for a new EV chargepoint at Grand Islands Super Saver on Second Street.

For more information, visit the Nebraska NEVI webpage at ndot.info/NEVI.
Constitution

doesnt guarantee

abortion rights

Democrats, feminists and liberals are outraged that Roe vs. Wade has been overturned. They viscously attack the Supreme Court, It has destroyed the rule of law, the Constitution. Oh how they praised the Supreme Court when they won.

Here is a fact they dont want the American people to know. Supreme Court nominee Robert Bork and two other constitutional scholars reported that under the U.S. Constitution judges at all levels cannot grant rights or take away constitutional rights. My comments, only through the legislative or constitutional amendment process, can rights be granted. For over 60 years Democrats and liberals have used liberal activist judges to achieve what the American people wouldnt allow under the legislative process. And what makes this even egregious is the Democrats, liberals and media immediately push these manufactured rights as laws.

For decades Democrats and liberals have touted that women have a constitutional right to abortion. As Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas aptly pointed out in his opinion, Nowhere in the Constitution does it grant a woman the right to an abortion.

Another topic, its now being reported that over 20% of students have a mental health problem. What theyre taught in school is what is causing their depression and anxiety. Paula Rutten of Palmer made a very good statement the beginning of June in her Letter to the Editor, Students are told theyre worthless and there is no meaning to life. Every single problem in public schools  bad behavior, drugs, low grades, disrespect  are nonexistent in parochial, private, chartered and church schools, in my opinion. Thats because they have discipline, high standards and grades and give students a good education in all subjects and arent taught liberal indoctrination.

Gary Kelsch

Grand Island

Real GOP

members without

a 2024 candidateEver since Donald Trump herded most of the GOP into the Trump cult, conventional Republicans lacked a home. Many members remained silent or joined the crude parade, even though Trump didnt represent their values, hoping for better days, which never arrived.

Are the straight members quietly grooming their candidate (Pence or ??) to announce after Trump declares in or out?

Trump is a far less attractive 2024 prospect after the Jan. 6 revelations. In the past we may have elected someone who turned out to be a crook, but this time we know in advance of Trumps criminal actions while in the White House, just not yet indicted! And the U.S. has no provisions for a president serving from prison. Voters should act accordingly.

Lavon Sumption

Lincoln

No justice for victimSo much has been said about the 10-year old girl who needed to get an abortion. I feel for her and her parents, but what about the guy who made the decision to have a few minutes of cruel pleasure.

She will suffer  physically, emotionally, mentally and the list goes on for the rest of her life. But the guy will perhaps serve some jail time, and then the rest of his life he is free to do whatever he wants with no long-term affects. It would take someone as depraved as he is to administer the punishment he deserves, but sure isnt fair. Registering as a sex offender, if he does until he is caught not doing it, is a small price to pay for the awful pain he has administered.

Jeanie Edghill

Grand Island

Help for

prescription drugsAs someone who advocates for patients access to dependable health care, I know how critical prescription drugs can be for proper care. It is daunting for uninsured or underinsured patients to access regular medical care and prescriptions.

The 340B program is geared specifically to provide discounted medications to Federally Qualified Health Centers and the vulnerable patients they serve. The 340B program requires prescription drug manufacturers to provide discounts, as much as 50%, to eligible entities, such as non-profit hospitals and clinics. When the hospitals or clinics bill Medicare, they are allowed to retain the full medication cost in order to help pay for their charity care.

There are over 38,000 facilities currently using the 340B program. During the 2018-19 fiscal year, 340B purchases totaled $29.9 billion, making it the second largest federal prescription drug program. It has grown far beyond its original scope. Additional guidance is needed especially regarding those who qualify as a 340B patient. This will ensure that hospitals and clinics are best using this critical program, helping those who really need it, and keeping it strong for years to come.

Kari Stofer

Grand Island

When does

life begin?With last months release of its Dobbs opinion, the U.S. Supreme Court aimed to enshrine within federal law the principle that human life begins at conception. This assumption, however, viciously ignored one undeniable fact: there is no universal moral, scientific, religious or philosophical agreement regarding when life begins. Across faiths, political perspectives and academic disciplines, there exists a diversity of opinions relevant to this subject.

As Scott Gilbert, professor of biology at Swarthmore College, has written, there is no consensus among scientists as to when personhood begins. And as NPRs Sarah McCammon wrote when summarizing the perspective of religious groups regarding abortion, Polls suggest that while a majority of Americans support abortion rights and oppose overturning Roe, views on abortion are closely tied to religion. Jewish, Buddhist, Unitarian and nonreligious Americans express some of the strongest support for abortion rights in surveys. Within Christianity, there is a wide variety of views.

Bluntly, there is no overarching and abiding consensus regarding the starting point of a human life. Especially for this reason, laws banning abortion are fundamentally flawed and lack both justification and grounding. Moreover, abortion bans are white supremacist in origin as they disparately impact Black women and communities of color.

Lets keep Nebraska ban-free and ensure reproductive justice for every single person here. Period.

Trey Coley Lusk

Founder and Board Secretary

NE Religious Council for Reproductive Freedom

Lincoln

Explaining

abortion to GodEvery day I read in the newspaper about abortion, and also hear about the pros and cons about abortion. Im hearing and reading mostly about women who give their opinions as to why. Thinking and praying about abortion, this would be my concern.

When your life here is over, you will have to explain to our heavenly Father why you destroyed his creation, why you didnt work hard to find a solution and why you didnt pray to God for help. He does provide miracles. He saved me and my fourth child. Just trust him.

Elizabeth Betty Keep

St. Paul

Kudos to detasseling companiesI would like to applaud the detasseling companies for giving our young ones a chance to work. It gives our young ones a chance to make money, meet new friends and know what hard work is.

I commend the parents for taking and picking up their loved ones in their busy schedule. Thank you and God bless you all.

Virginia Arvizo

Grand Island
Expert Viewpoint

Five Ways To Prioritize Teachers' Well-Being and Help Overcome the Staffing Crisis

School districts across the United States are experiencing workforce shortage issues similar to those seen in other sectors. Specifically, teachers are in short supply while many are leaving the profession. As passionate as many are about teaching children, the stresses of the job have increased dramatically over the past couple of years. Even pay increases  while well-intended  have proven to be too little an incentive for many to stay.

More than half of educators across the country say theyre ready to leave the profession, and in California alone, 56% of recent retirees say they left because of the challenges of teaching during the pandemic.

The exodus has caused severe staffing shortages in districts around the nation. Lacking adequate substitute teachers, students who need the most help cannot get it and learning progress stalls; as a result, students fall even further behind, impacting their prospects for continuing education and hurting their competitiveness in the job market. Not to mention, teacher turnover is expensive, costing districts $20,000 on average to fill each vacancy. Worse yet, there arent enough candidates to fill the open positions. As word spreads about the struggles in the classroom and administrative pressures, teaching has regrettably become a less attractive career.

Districts across the country are working hard to help restore the joy of teaching and attract more young people to the profession. A good start has come in the form of state-funded teacher training, pay increases and increased education budgets. Sadly however, many teachers are still eyeing the door.

There are tools available to solve the teacher shortage problem: Education leaders must invest in long-term solutions that improve working conditions and implement competitive benefits like wellness programs that support and protect their teachers, as well as slow the turnover. Professionals in education understand that teachers provide optimal learning environments when their stress levels are low and cortisol levels are balanced.

Five Things Schools Can Do To Reduce Teacher Turnover

Following are some cost-effective ways to create positive long-term results and reduce teacher turnover:

Implement Mental Health Programs: Like all frontline workers, teachers are feeling stressed, anxious and/or depressed and are in desperate need of mental and behavioral health support. There are options through the use of technology to provide easy-to-access mental health services that provide discreet access to care, tailored for teachers specific needs and their schedules. This can drastically improve teachers wellbeing, enthusiasm for the classroom, productivity and engagement.

Like all frontline workers, teachers are feeling stressed, anxious and/or depressed and are in desperate need of mental and behavioral health support. There are options through the use of technology to provide easy-to-access mental health services that provide discreet access to care, tailored for teachers specific needs and their schedules. This can drastically improve teachers wellbeing, enthusiasm for the classroom, productivity and engagement. Offer Staff Wellness Programs: Over 40% of the U.S. population is obese, over 35 million are Type 2 diabetics and more than 30 million have heart disease. Teachers are not immune to these conditions and, like all workers, can benefit greatly from wellness benefits to help reduce the prevalence and impact of chronic illness. By supporting their overall health with wellness programs designed around a teachers schedule and lifestyle, districts can help educators feel better, more appreciated, motivated and energetic in the classroom.

Over 40% of the U.S. population is obese, over 35 million are Type 2 diabetics and more than 30 million have heart disease. Teachers are not immune to these conditions and, like all workers, can benefit greatly from wellness benefits to help reduce the prevalence and impact of chronic illness. By supporting their overall health with wellness programs designed around a teachers schedule and lifestyle, districts can help educators feel better, more appreciated, motivated and energetic in the classroom. Provide On-Site Medical Services: Arranging for substitutes is a huge problem and many teachers avoid missing work because they know theres no one to take over their class. That means they could be delaying preventative care like blood pressure and diabetes screening, cholesterol testing and other routine blood work, as well as annual physical exams. On-site clinic providers can bring these services directly to teachers, right on campus. That way, instead of missing half a day or more for a routine appointment, they can get medical services during a lunch break or planning period to keep up with their basic healthcare needs.

Arranging for substitutes is a huge problem and many teachers avoid missing work because they know theres no one to take over their class. That means they could be delaying preventative care like blood pressure and diabetes screening, cholesterol testing and other routine blood work, as well as annual physical exams. On-site clinic providers can bring these services directly to teachers, right on campus. That way, instead of missing half a day or more for a routine appointment, they can get medical services during a lunch break or planning period to keep up with their basic healthcare needs. Create a Safe Working Environment: Aside from providing on-site testing for COVID, influenza, and other transmittable conditions to keep teachers safe, districts can focus on creating a psychologically safe culture where coming to work is a positive experience. This way, in the event the school community experiences challenges such as what we saw in 2020, everyone can look to the school as a safe place, with the infrastructure in place to attend to mental and physical health  clearing the path to a comfortable new normal.

Aside from providing on-site testing for COVID, influenza, and other transmittable conditions to keep teachers safe, districts can focus on creating a psychologically safe culture where coming to work is a positive experience. This way, in the event the school community experiences challenges such as what we saw in 2020, everyone can look to the school as a safe place, with the infrastructure in place to attend to mental and physical health  clearing the path to a comfortable new normal. Invite and Encourage More Open Communication: Conduct surveys to gather teacher feedback about challenges they face both professionally and personally. Are many teachers having trouble sleeping? Consider offering a guided sleep program. Do they struggle with eating healthy? Perhaps offer discounts on meal delivery services. Need more exercise? Start an after-school walking club. There could be very simple and inexpensive solutions that can make a major difference.

Every day, teachers show up for the hard job and heavy responsibility of cultivating our most important and most valuable assets: our children and our future. Education is the key to our nations growth, and the sustainability of any society stems from a good education system.

The next generation will be the product of the teachers in our system today. We have the opportunity to provide them with the support they need not only for their work in the classroom, but also for their own physical and mental well-being.
President Joe Biden has decided to ban Russian oil imports, toughening the toll on Russia's economy in retaliation for its invasion of Ukraine. The United States generally imports about 100,000 barrels a day from Russia, only about 5% of Russia's crude oil exports, according to Rystad Energy. Last year, roughly 8% of U.S. imports of oil and petroleum products came from Russia. Gas prices have been rising for weeks due to the conflict and in anticipation of potential sanctions on the Russian energy sector. The U.S. national average for a gallon of gasoline soared 45 cents a gallon in the past week and topped $4.06 on Monday, according to auto club AAA. Should the US ban Russian oil imports over Ukraine war?

You voted:
Tyrone Landingham, right, of Howard Brown Health, administers a smallpox/monkeypox vaccine at the Cell Block Chicago club in the 3700 block of North Halsted Street on Aug. 6, 2022, in Chicago. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune)

With students returning to campuses in just a couple of weeks, universities and colleges across the state are beginning to pull from COVID-19 response plans to prepare for the spreading monkeypox virus, which could pose a unique risk to students because they live in close quarters and often have heightened sexual contact, experts say.

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We have to be concerned about monkeypox on college campuses, said Dr. Emily Landon, University of Chicago Medicines executive director for infection prevention and control. Monkeypox spreads through close, physical contact, and theres a lot of social and sexual networks in colleges.

A large majority of the 556 total monkeypox cases Chicago reported Monday have been identified in men who have sex with men, Chicago Department of Public Health data shows.

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The Illinois Department of Public Health on Monday reported 672 cases across the state.

Dozens of people wait in line to receive the monkeypox/smallpox vaccine at the Cell Block Chicago club in the 3700 block of North Halsted Street on Aug. 6, 2022. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune)

Monkeypox has spread aggressively among men who have sex with men in part because they are often connected to tight sexual networks, but theres no biological reason why gay and bisexual men have been hit hardest and nothing to stop the disease from spreading more aggressively within other populations, Landon said.

Well-known bugs like meningitis and mononucleosis already spread on campuses through close contact. The monkeypox virus wont discriminate when students start touching.

Any close contact, skin-to-skin, prolonged contact, even things like making out with people can lead to monkeypox transmission, she said.

While the city and states public health departments do not have monkeypox guidance of colleges and universities publicly available, the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does have information for congregate living settings, such as college dorms.

CDPH officials did not respond Monday when asked via email if the department was working on such guidance or had seen monkeypox cases among students.

The University of Illinois has been meeting weekly with local health authorities and providers to monitor the viruss spread throughout Champaign County, spokesperson Chantelle Thompson said. The states flagship university is working with campus groups, local bars and fraternities to get monkeypox messaging out, she said.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign wants to ensure we are keeping those currently most at risk for monkeypox (MPV) informed, without stigmatizing them or letting others become complacent, spokesperson Chantelle Thompson said.

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No cases have been confirmed yet, and isolation for monkeypox-positive students and close contacts will be assessed as cases arise, Thompson said.

Plans are in place to scale (an) MPV response should it become necessary, she added.

Nurse Joe Ramirez, left, of Howard Brown Health, administers a smallpox/monkeypox vaccine for a woman at the Cell Block Chicago club in the 3700 block of North Halsted Street on Aug. 6, 2022. (John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune)

Western Illinois University medical officers are working with local health officials to develop protocols based on state guidelines, spokesperson Darcie Shinberger said. The university will lean on COVID-19 protocols to prepare for a potential outbreak, she added.

Columbia College will similarly look to coronavirus plans to respond to monkeypox, spokesperson Lambrini Lukidis told the Tribune.

There are no plans to test for monkeypox or provide the difficult to acquire monkeypox vaccines on campus yet, but the college is already sharing information with all students on identifying and stopping the spread of the virus, Lukidis said.

Columbia hasnt yet confirmed any cases, she added.

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For now, I think on monkeypox, we would be taking the lead from local health authorities in terms of what to do and where somebody would isolate, Lukidis said.

Illinois State University has relied on the state health departments public information, spokesperson Eric Jome said.

It is encouraging to see that theres mobilization at the state level and at the federal level. As these things progress, more resources are going to become available, and we would obviously be working with our local health departments if the case arose, he said.

When the semester starts in a couple of weeks, there will be a lot more students on campus, Jome said. The university will work to get information out as students get back to class.

Were watching this. If theres anything COVID has taught us, its just to be flexible and that things may change, he said.

Afternoon Briefing Daily Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. >

Landon said colleges need to make sure that they have systems in place to share information about the virus, and they also need to think about how to make monkeypox testing and care for positive students accessible given the stigma and weekslong quarantines associated with the disease.

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Howard Brown Health Center clinicians have already detected monkeypox among university students in Hyde Park, the Hyde Park Herald reported.

If colleges dont make it easy for students to get treatment for monkeypox, they may not go and get it, Landon said. While plans need to be ready and information shared with students, universities and students shouldnt freak out about the disease, she added.

Public points of contact, like sharing toilets, do not seem to be leading to monkeypox spread, Landon said. Across Illinois and Chicago, housemates who dont have sexual contact do not seem to be passing on the virus to one another, meaning dorm rooms shouldnt currently pose a major risk, she added.

Landon offered advice for students: With fist-bumps and careful sex practices, be really careful about who you share your skin with.

jsheridan@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @jakesheridan_
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A professor at South Carolina State University is preparing to release a book documenting historic cemeteries in Charleston.

Patrick Harwood, a communications instructor at SC State, has written four books previously. His upcoming release, "Stories from the Underground: The Churchyards of Charleston, documents the burial grounds of 13 churches and one synagogue in Charlestons historic district in 228 large-format, full-color pages.

Thousands of people from the late 1600s through the 1800s and beyond are interred in these graveyards and cemeteries, Harwood said. My book attempts to reveal and examine the lives and deaths of many of these early Charlestonians to tell the bigger picture of Charlestons trials, tribulations and triumphs.

Harwood said Charleston is unique not only due to being one of the oldest and best preserved historic cities in the country, but also because of the religious freedom exercised in the city from its beginning as a British colony. Many other American colonies were more restrictive of religious practices.

Harwood called the colony a melting pot with unprecedented religious freedom, which he said was used as an incentive to attract colonists.

Indeed, the historic cemeteries featured in his newest book include Anglican, Episcopalian, Baptist, Catholic, Congregational, Huguenot (French Protestant), Jewish, Methodist, Lutheran, Presbyterian and Unitarian congregations.

Harwood spent five years teaching a College of Charleston course on old cemeteries, Beyond the Grave: What Old Cemeteries Tell and Teach the Living.

He said his interest in the city's cemeteries began in 2008 when he first visited the historic Magnolia Cemetery. Harwood wrote two books on the birds and the history and beauty of Magnolia Cemetery, published in 2011 and 2014, respectively.

My students and I visited a number of Charlestons graveyards and cemeteries, so I got to know these burial grounds, Harwood said. I learned a lot also from the various guest speakers we had in class. So this became a goal of mine to write a comprehensive book with my photography to take readers on a tour of Charlestons burial grounds and tell hundreds of stories about the people interred in these grounds.

Harwoods previous books have sold nationwide on Amazon, so he knows there is demand outside of Charleston for history and photographs of the city's historic beauty. Harwood said Charleston is home to some of the countrys most unique, creative and artistic gravestones.

These commentaries can tell us how people in Charleston in the 1700s and 1800s mourned and thought about lost loved ones, according to Harwood.

Often their sadness and mourning were combined with the desire to honor their lost family member with a grave marker that showed style and grace by how it was designed, with thoughtful epitaphs, symbols and artistic touches, Harwood said.

This is in contrast to modern cemeteries, which Harwood called cookie cutter, with limited space for families to be creative in their farewells.

Nothing memorable about todays burial grounds, Harwood said. Its kind of sad.

Harwood not only writes but also provides all the photography for his books. He said he has built off the technical and researching skills from his previous Magnolia Cemetery books while writing his new work. This is his fourth book hes put together in Adobe inDesign.

I do it all myself, Harwood said. Word by word, photograph by photograph, and page by page.

Stories of the Churchyard: The Cemeteries of Charleston focuses on the 13 large churches and one synagogue in the historic district that still have their graveyards.

It also examines what happened to the many Black burial sites in Charleston. Harwood said some of these were moved, while many others were lost to road and building construction over time.

Harwood expects to receive the first book from the printer in early September. It will be available on Amazon.com and through his website, mybirdseyeviews.blogspot.com, or via email at birdseyeviewspublications@gmail.com.

He said he will also be working to put copies into stores and libraries around the state and will be setting up talks and book signings this fall, including in Orangeburg.
(TBTCO) - Thi truong chung khoan hom nay co them mot phien xanh vo o long. Ap luc ban a ro hon trong phien hom nay do khong co nhom co phieu nao noi bat dan dat, viec thi truong con giu uoc thanh qua trong phien la do luc keo tu cac co phieu tru, voi cong au en tu VIC.
(TBTCO) - Theo du bao cua cac chuyen gia, trong thoi gian toi, thi truong au tu cong nghe ngay mot soi ong, hoat ong oi moi sang tao va cac startup se tiep tuc la ong luc cho phuc hoi kinh te. ac biet, cong ong startup Viet se ua ra nhieu giai phap cong nghe e giai quyet nhung van e, nhu cau cua thi truong va doanh nghiep.
Our colleagues from RTL spoke to the director of the Health Directorate about the spread of the virus and how to protect against infections.

Dr Schmit explained that the number of infections is still rising, but no longer as fast as it was towards the beginning of the outbreak. The average age of infected people is 30 to 40, and 99.1% are men.

Dr Schmit believes it to be surprising that it has only affected men so far, but not unusual. The virus has mainly been spreading in the gay community, which is why that group is considered at risk and in need of protection: "The idea is to vaccinate men who have relations with many different partners. Some European countries have already begun implementing this strategy."

So far, the vaccine has been primarily delivered to countries with the most monkeypox infections, including Portugal, Spain, France, and Germany. Although Luxembourg has not yet received a vaccine delivery, the EU has promised to send 1,400 doses in the coming days.

As soon as the first jabs are ready, the vaccination campaign will kick off, explained Dr Schmit: "The vaccine at our disposal was actually developed for the regular poxvirus, but it is also affective against monkeypox. It is not a new vaccine, but one that has existed for some time."

Although the vaccine will first be used to inoculate the at-risk group, everyone can get it later on. Side effects are considered to be minor, the worst being fever and pain at the spot where the jab was used.

People who suspect having been infected with monkeypox should contact the National Service for Infectious Diseases at CHL, where one can also get tested.

Dr Schmit stressed that while the outbreak should be taken seriously, there is no reason to panic: "The situation is relatively stable. We see that numbers are not exploding, only increasing slowly without a strong transmission. Concerned people have by now been informed and know what to do."

In Luxembourg, no monkeypox patient has yet been admitted to a hospital. Infected people only displayed mild symptoms, including fever, swollen lymph glands, and rashes. Although the virus is transmissible through every type of bodily fluid, close contact is still needed.

The Health Directorate thus pleads that people protect themselves and stop the spread of the virus. They should wash their hands regularly, avoid sharing bed sheets with people that are known to be infected, and use protection during sexual intercourse.

Video report in Luxembourgish
A Teton County judge said she will decide before noon today whether to extend a temporary block on Wyomings abortion ban while a lawsuit contesting its constitutionality plays out.

Judge Melissa Owens listened to arguments for and against the preliminary injunction today in a Jackson courtroom.

A small, mostly female crowd watched the proceedings in the wood-paneled courtroom. One of the spectators, Gigi Halloran, said she was surprised there werent more people in the room.

This is important, Halloran said. We cant have men making decisions for womens bodies.

Another woman, a lawyer based in Teton County, said she also came to the hearing on the temporary restraining order  and even brought her daughter.

It doesnt have the courtroom drama, the smoking gun, she said, but this is affecting the entire state.

A group of plaintiffs that includes Wyoming abortion providers, residents and a nonprofit abortion fund sued the state over its abortion ban in late July. Days later, in an emergency hearing, Owens granted a two-week restraining order that paused the bans enforcement.

The states sole clinic that provides abortions, the Womens Health Center and Family Care Clinic in Jackson, resumed abortion services during the pause.

Chelseas Fund, a Lander-based nonprofit that provides financial assistance for abortion care, has also continued offering payments for mailed medication abortions, out-of-state appointments and transportation. But JustThePill.com, a national provider of abortion medication through mail, may pause its services in Wyoming if the ban goes back into effect today, said Chelseas Fund board member Caitlin Shea after the hearing.

More Wyomingites have been calling Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains since the ban went into effect, said board member Maggie Hunt. Most of them are looking for appointments in Colorado or Montana.

The plaintiffs argue that the ban can harm pregnant women by forcing providers to delay or deny proper care, and that it also puts providers at risk of prosecution.

Wyomings ban, which went into effect about a month after Roe v. Wade was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court, has limited exceptions that allow a person to seek an abortion if the pregnancy threatens the mothers life or if it is the result of rape or incest.

Vagueness of the exceptions

Since the law doesnt provide guidelines for physicians to determine when to grant an exception, plaintiffs argue, providers who perform an abortion they believe falls under the exceptions could find themselves in legal trouble.

We said in our papers that this will take teams of lawyers and doctors, and were not kidding, John Robinson, one of the lawyers representing the plaintiffs, said during the hearing.

Robinson said that could conflict with physicians ethical obligation to provide proper care.

They have the ethical responsibility to place the patients well-being over their own self-interests or obligations to others, he said.

But the state, through Assistant Attorney General Jay Jerde, argues that any vagueness in the abortion laws exceptions doesnt meant that the whole ban should be blocked.

The exceptions can be severed from the statute, and the statute can still go into effect, Jerde argued.

Owens questioned that argument.

She asked if taking out all the exceptions to the abortion ban would seem like a reasonable and necessary restriction on Wyomingites right to make health care decisions.

Enforcement

Owens also asked Jerde how the ban would be enforced uniformly across Wyoming given the current vagueness of the exceptions.

We have Dr. Anthony, who ends up in a penitentiary and loses her medical license, and then we have another doctor in Casper, who pays a fine and keeps on going, Owens said.

Anthony, sitting with the plaintiffs legal team during Wednesdays hearing, blinked slowly and put her hand to her mouth at the mention of prison time.

Jerde said that those questions will be sorted out in individual communities, and that those discrepancies in enforcement arise around other criminal offenses as well.

What youre describing seems to be the normal course, Jerde said.

Equal protection

Jerde also asserted that the classification of the people who are targeted by the abortion ban is incorrect.

The plaintiffs argued that the ban unequally impacts women and men because it specifically targets womens health care.

Men and women participate equally in the creation of a fetus, yet there is no resulting penalty under the Ban for a man and he bears no consequences for his contribution, the plaintiffs memorandum in support of their motion for a preliminary injunction says.

But Jerde said the ban is only meant to restrict providers and doesnt treat that group of people unequally.

However, plaintiffs attorney Marci Bramlet said that the abortion ban statute explicitly talks about pregnant women which, she said, makes them into a class.

Maintaining the status quo

Jerde said that abortion being illegal is the status quo in Wyoming since it was illegal for more than 100 years prior to Roe protecting pre-viability abortion on a federal level.

If the state wants to rely on what the law was in 1879 ... we could go back to making it a crime to not remove a hat in public, Robinson said. Prostitution was defined as women who associate with just the wrong people.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs say the status quo, based on abortion being legal in the state until the end of July, was preserved when the ban was temporarily blocked.

Nothings really changed from 13 days ago, when we had our last hearing, Robinson said.

Jerde also said, in a brief filed last week, that Wyomings constitution doesnt explicitly or implicitly give residents a right to abortion. He pointed out that the word abortion doesnt appear anywhere in the constitution.

Bramlet said that Jerdes definition of the status-quo around abortion in Wyoming ignores a well established historical context of the availability of pre-quickening abortion since the first settlers arrived in America.

The status quo is the last 45 years, Hunt, also the chair of the Teton County Democratic Party, said outside the courthouse following the hearing. Are they saying now that any law that used to be but that was repealed can be reinstated?

The plaintiffs lawyers said that other words like marriage and family, as well as the names of other medical procedures, also dont appear anywhere in the constitution.

Religious freedom

The plaintiffs, one of whom is a practicing Jew, argue that the ban violates religious freedom.

University of Wyoming law student Kathleen Dow, who is Jewish, said in her affidavit that abortion is an essential part of her religion, which supports and sometimes requires abortion. She said that the ban would therefore interfere with her religious beliefs.

The plaintiffs also assert that the ban imposes certain religious beliefs on others who dont hold those same beliefs. Specifically, they pointed to the comments of a Kentucky court hearing a lawsuit against the abortion ban in that state. The defendants in the case argued that life begins at conception and falls under constitutional protection at that point. But the court said the defendants argument follows a distinctly Christian and Catholic belief.

Jerde said, however, that the bans overlap with certain religious viewpoints doesnt mean that it violates religious freedom.

Its strictly a coincidence and therefore not a free-exercise violation, Jerde said.

A constitutional amendment

Plaintiffs cite an amendment to Wyomings constitution that gives all competent adults the right to make their own health care decisions.

But the state says that should not apply in this case since the amendment was passed specifically in response to the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare; it wasnt meant to protect abortion access.

Jerde also argued that the amendment only applies to legal health care, which abortion would not be under the states ban. He characterized patients as consumers in a health care market who are free to make decisions about what health care services they want to pay for.

But if a certain health care service isnt legally available, they dont have a right to say, No, I want that even though its illegal, he said.

Robinson said, however, that the ban violates fundamental rights, like the right to property and privacy.

Were not just talking about an invasion into a doctors office, Robinson said. These are intimate decisions, these are decisions made in a family setting.

Hunt, of Planned Parenthood, said she believes abortion is a form of health care. Shea, a nurse practitioner, said that abortion is also used to describe certain kinds of miscarriages.

We use that term very fully in a medical setting, and the care is sometimes very similar to a medication abortion or a surgical abortion, Shea said.

The plaintiffs also submitted a brief, written for a similar lawsuit in Utah, from the American Medical Society, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine. Though the judge said Wednesday she would not rely much on that brief, it does call abortion an essential part of comprehensive health care. Robinson said that ACOG also plans to file a Wyoming-specific brief.

Bramlet said that womens property and privacy interests in their own bodies is established by precedent, and that the abortion ban would trespass on those rights.
Attorneys for the state say Wyomings constitution does not protect abortion, and that the states history favors heavy restrictions and criminalization of the procedure.

The arguments, made in a brief filed Friday, ask the Teton County judge presiding over a lawsuit contesting Wyomings abortion ban to reject a block on the ban that would last for the duration of the lawsuit challenging the prohibition.

The plaintiffs in the suit, which include Wyoming women, an abortion provider and a nonprofit abortion fund, argued in a brief last week that the ban violates constitutional protections for religious freedom and equal protection under the law.

Temporary block

Judge Melissa Owens granted a two-week pause on the bans enforcement in late July. Its set to expire on Wednesday. A hearing Tuesday in Teton County District Court will decide whether or not that pause will be extended.

Owens said the ban could cause irreparable harm to two of the suits plaintiffs, a pregnant woman and a doctor at the only clinic in the state that provides abortions.

The pregnant woman, Teton County nurse Danielle Johnson, could be denied medical care if she experiences complications with her pregnancy, Owens ruled, since the ban is ambiguous about what physicians can do and when.

As for the provider, Dr. Giovannina Anthony, Owens said she could be at risk of prosecution if she chose to abort a pregnancy she believed was the result of incest or rape, the bans two exceptions. Anthony could also be at risk of damaging her reputation, losing customers or becoming the subject of civil litigation, Owens wrote.

Status quo

Jay Jerde, the assistant attorney general arguing the states case, said in filings Friday that abortion being illegal (or at least heavily restricted) has been the status quo in Wyoming. Abortion was made criminal in the states first legislative session in 1869, and remained illegal until Roe v. Wade provided federal protections for the procedure in 1973.

In 1977, Wyoming repealed the statute criminalizing abortion but replaced it with a law banning the procedure after viability, the point when a fetus could survive outside the womb. That law, which allowed providers to serve up to 14 years in prison for violating it, remained in place until the trigger ban went into effect this year.

For more than 100 years before Roe, abortion was a crime in Wyoming and no one apparently questioned whether the criminal abortion statute violated the Wyoming Constitution, Jerde wrote.

Health care amendment

However, that century of illegal abortion ended decades before Wyoming voters passed an amendment to the state constitution that explicitly protects the rights of competent adults to make their own health care decisions.

While those looking to overturn the ban say abortion is a form of health care, and therefore should be protected by that 2012 amendment, the state disagrees.

(The amendment) only grants the right for an individual to decide to pursue legally available health care treatment services, Jerde wrote. If abortion is not legal, an individual does not have a right to abortion under the guise of making a health care decision.

The states brief argues that since state lawmakers can regulate what kind of health care is available in the state, the ban doesnt violate that part of the constitution.

Jerde also argues that since the amendment was passed specifically in response to concerns over Obamacare, the court should interpret it in that context. Two of the amendments co-sponsors told the Star-Tribune they never anticipated it could be used to protect abortion rights when it was written in 2011.
After months of build up, the Wyomings U.S. House race is coming to a close.

Harriet Hageman  the Donald Trump-endorsed candidate challenging Rep. Liz Cheney  announced Monday that her campaign released its final ad before the primary. The spot starts with a fast-paced compilation of short clips of Cheney appearing on the news and then cuts to a Hageman voiceover saying, Theres been an awful lot of noise this election.

Liz Cheney  shes made her time in Congress and this election all about her. Well, its not about her. Its about you, Hageman says as the camera moves closer to a Hageman campaign sign.

This ad is included in a six-figure ad buy that the campaign announced in mid-July that will extend through primary day, said Tim Murtaugh, the Hageman campaigns spokesman.

Over almost the entire month of July, the Hageman campaign raised about $540,000 and spent almost double that during the same time period. They have nearly $950,000 left in the bank.

Because of Cheneys vehement opposition to Trump and her prominent role on the Jan. 6 committee thats investigating Trumps role in the U.S. Capitol attack, this race has been largely centered around the former president.

Hageman, a natural resources lawyer who grew up outside of Fort Laramie, recently said the election was rigged, the firmest stance shes taken so far on the fairness of the 2020 presidential election.

Absolutely, the election was rigged. It was rigged to make sure that President Trump could not get reelected, Hageman said at a candidate forum in Casper. What happened in 2020 is a travesty.

This race has become one of the most closely watched in the nation as Cheney has risen in prominence since becoming one of Trumps main political adversaries. The contest is seen as a proxy war in the larger battle over the Republican Partys future.

Cheneys first challenger, Sen. Anthony Bouchard, R-Burns, entered the race in January 2021, only months before Cheney would be removed from her leadership post and long before she would start to serve as vice chairwoman of the Jan. 6 committee. Hageman entered the race on Sept. 9 2021 with Trumps endorsement in tow.

Hagemans gubernatorial campaign released a similar ad centered around fighting for the people of Wyoming when she ran in 2018, ultimately coming in third with 21% of the vote.

As governor, you can bet Ill stand up for you on the tough issues. I will fight to put you, the people of Wyoming, first, Hageman says in the 2018 spot.

Early voting is ongoing and primary day is Aug. 16.
Daniel Larson described the Madison River as Montanas most loved river.

Die-hard fans of the Big Hole, the Yellowstone, the Smith, the Bitterroot and a host of other scenic and fishable rivers might disagree.

But Larsons observation seems accurate if you measure love by usage.

For years now, both commercial outfitters and recreational anglers floating the river have expressed concerns that the Madison is being loved to death. There are fears that familiarity breeds descent in angler experience.

Bozeman and Gallatin County keep growing. Yellowstone National Park visitation set a record in 2021, before this years flooding, and some of those visitors want to fish the upper Madison River.

Larson spoke Aug. 4 during a work session of the Fish and Wildlife Commission. He has been a member of the Madison River Work Group, which has focused since September on providing recommendations to the commission about managing commercial and non-commercial use of the Madison River.

Larson added that the 800-pound gorilla in the room was non-commercial use.

The Work Groups recommendations in May called for developing a daily Madison River Float Permit for recreational floaters as a way to initially gather data about river use and to eventually help manage that use. There would be a small fee for the permit to help offset costs of the reservation system.

For commercial users, the work group recommended capping the number of river trips for an outfitter at the number of trips he or she reported for 2019 or 2020, whichever was highest.

Why would outfitters agree to a cap?

Larson said commercial interests have concerns about the quality of the fishing experience and about the fishery itself.

Work Group Chairman KC Walsh, who is also a Fish and Wildlife Commission member, said 25% of the fish in one stretch of the river show evidence of hook scarring, the likely result, he said, of anglers using treble hooks or performing catch-and-release with poor technique.

Work group member Brian McGeehan, an outfitter, said he and others routinely turn down trips during the peak season because of the limited availability of guides.

In June, Fish and Wildlife Commissioners voted to move forward with a process slated to include analysis of the costs and potential legal snags of the recommended changes, as well as public input.

Public scoping meetings are scheduled to begin in early September, with details to follow.

Some critics of the Madison River Work Groups composition and recommendations have observed that the groups makeup is unduly outfitter friendly and that management of non-commercial use could be a step toward unfairly restricting recreational float access to the river.

Concern has been expressed too that restrictions on public use could reflect an income disparity between wealthy outfitter clients and working class Montanans.

As designated by the Fish and Wildlife Commission, the 12-member Madison River Work Groups makeup was to include three commercial outfitters with current recreational use permits on the river. And that happened, with members Mike Bias, McGeehan and Mac Minard filling those slots.

Yet three other members have or once had close ties to outfitting and guiding on the river. Larson of the Madison Valley Ranch, an Orvis endorsed lodge, told commissioners Wednesday that he works with outfitters. John Sampson, an owner of the Madison Double R, once worked as a fishing guide and the lodges website notes that float trips are certainly a main focus at Madison Double R. Finally, member Allison Treloar has been married to fishing guide Mike Treloar.

The Work Groups recommendations for commercial use advise keeping the Special River Permit system, which is a cooperative agreement between Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. There would be no limit on the granting of such permits to new river service providers.

A separate Madison River Use Permit could cap the total annual commercial trips by a Special River Permit holder based on the number of trips reported in 2019 or 2020.

Anglers who are clients of a permitted outfitter would not need a separate float permit.

Public scoping meetings for the Work Groups recommendations are due to begin in early September, with the first meeting tentatively set for September 6 in Bozeman. Details about time, place and additional meetings will follow.
THE recent, and perhaps ongoing, difference of opinion between Caribbean Airlines Ltd (CAL) and the Tobago House of Assemblyover the limitations on the national air carriers service on the Tobago routeled me to question whether CAL needs to be responsible for the domestic airbridge.
MAKING AN HONEST DOLLAR: Trinidad and Tobago Scrap Iron Dealers Association (TTSIDA) president Allan Ferguson, left, and vice-president Erros Seejattan display copies of the Trade Ministrys Scrap Metal Policy 2021-2025 and an article on Ferguson which was published in Recycling International magazine during yesterdays news conference at Jennys on the Boulevard, Port of Spain. Photo: ISHMAEL SALANDY
A NINE-YEAR-OLD boy is in critical condition at the Port of Spain General Hospital after bei
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Editor's note: This story was originally published on March 8, 2022. Noodies opened on April 15, 2022.

Noodies! When owner Carolyn OConnor says the word out loud, it sounds like a party, a celebration.

The name belongs to her new pasta restaurant, opening later this month, in the space formerly occupied by Bentleys House of Coffee and Tea. Carolyn is totally re-imagining the place, complete with a mural painted by a friend who happens to experiment with abstract noodle shapes. There isnt a better word for it than fun.

Noodies is a Tucson inheritance. But its lineage, like sister restaurant Ceres, comes from all over. If Ceres is inspired by the pastries and pasta of northern Italy, Noodies draws material from the checkered-tablecloth Italian-American of Syracuse, with some help by way of Hong Kong.

Syracuse is Carolyns hometown. Its where she was pregnant, scrolling Pinterest, when the algorithm realized she needed more brightly-colored images of cha chaan teng  American-style diners in Hong Kong, where you can get condensed-milk French toast and macaroni soup. Those hues inspire the setting of Noodies today, if not the menu.

Though both restaurants share the foundation of Carolyns handmade pasta, Carolyn is clear that each restaurant is its own concept. Ceres always felt like my baby. The first time going into something, everything was really new. Because of that everything feels so precious  Noodies felt almost like having a second child  Noodies is colorful; the food is a little more gluttonous and cheesy. I see it as a wild second child or something.

While you will be able to get your favorite sauces from Ceres at Noodies  the tomato basil, the bolognese, the cacio e pepe  Noodies larger kitchen allows Carolyn to expand the menu. Youll be able to add Italian sausage, meatballs and burrata to your order. Unlike Ceres lunch counter, Noodies will have both indoor and outdoor seating. Their menu will also offer sandwiches Carolyn misses from her hometown, like meatball subs and Italian grinders.

Though Carolyn never thought she would go into the restaurant business  her parents are in academics  her mothers hospitality inspires Carolyns restaurants.

My mom, shes a really good cook, and she loves having a real dinner. She sets the table, puts out napkins, does all this stuff, makes a whole beautiful meal and a pie, tea and coffee, so she creates this whole experience for people, and it makes people feel so loved and appreciated. Its also a legacy in my own family, taking care of people through food, she said.

The also responds to Noodies more apparent legacy: Noodies is taking over the lease of her mother-in-law Jo Schneiders first restaurant, Bentleys, which occupied that space for over two decades. If Carolyns own mother gave her a love for feeding her community, Carolyns mother-in-law inspired her to make service her livelihood.

Going into the restaurant business or being an entrepreneur was so different than what I expected (for my life). The trust (the Schneider family has) put in me, the support, how theyre always there for me, with anything. Its such a testament to their kindness and generosity. I think Jo does that for a lot of people in this community, giving people a chance when maybe other people wouldnt, and let them shine, she said of Jo, who owns downtowns LaCo.

At both Ceres and Noodies, Carolyn aspires to be that support system for her own employees. She hosts weekly tasting sessions for staff, where they all sample the specials, the soft-serve flavors and give feedback. Everyone who works there respects everyone else and works really hard. Its such a good thing for workplace morale. Its very collaborative, so everyone feels really listened to, Carolyn said.

Theres two staff at Ceres who have been there since the day we opened, she said. They now know how to do everything. Theyre more or less managing Ceres for the shifts, every day  I really wouldnt have been able to take on the new project without them.

Workers at Ceres have to be able to do it all: cook pasta and take orders and make espresso  because the space to work is tiny. Though the larger venue at Noodies allows for more specialization, people working in the front versus the back of house, Carolyn aspires for the restaurants to cross-pollinate.

I have everyone try cooking lunch. I love it so much. Its really fast  I think a lot of women, especially, are really intimidated to go into a kitchen and work in a line  I think giving people the chance who wouldnt maybe necessarily think thats a good fit for them, the opportunity to cook in a fast-paced place, and realize: I could be really good at this.

We just started accepting resumes for Noodies. Im not sure what the kitchen will look like, or the front of house. We wrote that all are welcome to apply. I really hope people will.

Noodies

Location: 1726 E. Speedway

Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday-Monday.

For more information, check out their Instagram.
A Tucson-based coffee roaster founded by siblings is opening its flagship shop at the iconic Benedictine Monastery.

Yellow Brick Coffee has had a roasting facility and small coffeehouse at 3220 S. Dodge Blvd. since 2013 and supplies coffee to numerous local shops around Tucson and online.

Its new spot at the monastery, 800 N. Country Club Road, will be an upscale gathering place with hand- and batch-brewed coffees, espresso-based beverages and pastries made in-house.

The brother-and-sister team of Anna and David Perreira began their roasting journey in their parents garage in 2012.

We intentionally grew the wholesale and e-commerce business waiting for a space that felt right, Anna Perreira said. Once the Benedictine renovation was presented to us, we knew this would be the right fit.

Yellow Brick Coffee will have an open design so customers can watch their drinks being prepared.

Theyll be able to see how we pull and weigh a shot, steam milk, pour latte art, etc., and will be able to interact with the barista at the same time, almost like a chefs table, or a bartender mixing your drink right in front of you, David Perreira said.

The coffee shop is expected to open this fall.

Other local real estate transactions include:

Nexus Partners LLC bought 6.222 acres of land at the northeast corner of Valencia and Nexus roads to develop it as a mixed-use commercial center. Nancy McClure, with CBRE, represented the seller, Wood Real Estate Holdings Trust, in the $1.6 million sale.

DeLo 4th St LLC bought the 10-unit complex at 638-644 E. Fourth St., from Gecko University LLC for $1.6 million. Allan Mendelsberg and Conrad Joey Martinez, with Picor, handled the sale.

Pyramid Federal Credit Union sold its former branch at 7740 E. Speedway to WB7740 Holdings LLC for $800,000. Nancy McClure, with CBRE, represented the seller, and Lynn Taylor, with Whirlygig Properties, represented the buyer.

Pump & Abrasion Technologies USA LLC leased 6,000 square feet of industrial space at 750 E. Ohio St. from Ohio Street Building No. 2 Ltd. LLLP. Robert Glaser, with Picor, represented the landlord.

Azhar A. Dabdoub and Marisol Ramirez leased 2,400 square feet of industrial space at 4595 S. Palo Verde Road from Pegasus Tucson Owner LLC. Paul Hooker and Andrew Keim, with Picor, represented the landlord.

J and H Auto Sales LLC leased 1,400 square feet of industrial space at 3240 S. Dodge Blvd. from Pegasus Tucson Owner LLC. Paul Hooker and Andrew Keim, with Picor, represented the landlord.
Fourteen tribal governments, including eight in Arizona, say federal officials have left them out of ongoing negotiations over future curbs of water use in the Colorado River Basin.

Basin tribes are largely in the dark about what is being discussed or whether a plan is beginning to coalesce to approve major water use reductions in the basin starting in 2023, they said in a letter to a top Interior Department official.

The July 22 letter came as representatives of the basins seven states, and Interiors Bureau of Reclamation, were well into their second month of private talks about how to meet a bureau directive to reduce water use in the basin by 14% to 28%. If the states cant produce an acceptable plan by mid-August, Reclamation Commissioner Camille Touton has threatened to impose a solution on them.

The tribes letter said, There are only a few weeks left to develop this plan in time to meet the deadline Commissioner Touton set. Yet there has been no meaningful discussion with basin tribes about what the implications of this plan are likely to be or what unilateral action(s) the department is contemplating.

We should not have to remind you  but we will again  that as our trustee, you must protect our rights, our assets, and people in addition to any action you take on behalf of the system, the tribal leaders wrote to Tanya Trujillo, assistant Interior secretary for water and science.

The volume of water that the department is asking to be voluntarily reduced by water users is massive and will undoubtedly impact all or some of the Basin Tribes water rights, the letter said.

A Bureau of Reclamation spokeswoman said the bureau will respond to the tribes letter directly to them in writing.

We dont respond to correspondence in the media, said Becki Bryant, of the bureaus Salt Lake City-based, Upper Colorado River Basin office. We try to keep it between the appropriate groups.

In previous correspondence with Interior, tribal leaders have noted that tribes hold water rights to approximately 3 million acre-feet of Colorado River water. Thats about 25% of the rivers average annual flow of barely 12 million acre-feet a year since the Wests current arid spell started in 2000.

This percentage will only increase as climate change continues to diminish overall runoff amounts and reduces the amount of water available to lower priority users, 20 tribes wrote to Interior Secretary Deborah Haaland in November 2021.

The Gila River Indian Community in Sacaton, which controls the biggest single share in Arizona of Central Arizona Project water from the Colorado River, was among the eight Arizona tribes that signed the new letter.

Also signing were the Ak-Chin Indian Community in Maricopa, the San Carlos Apache Tribe in central Arizona, the Hopi Tribe in northeastern Arizona, the White Mountain Apache Tribe in Whiteriver, the Tonto Apache tribe in Payson and the Fort Yuma Quechan tribe in the Yuma area.

Arizona tribes not signing the letter included the Tohono Oodham and Pascua Yaqui tribes in Southern Arizona; and the Colorado River Indian Tribe in Parker, which owns the largest share of Colorado River water of any Arizona tribe.

What is being discussed behind closed doors among the United States and the basin states will likely have a direct impact on basin tribes water rights and other resources and we expect and demand that you protect our interests, the tribal letter said.

Water agencies in the Lower Basin states of Arizona, California and Nevada involved in the current negotiations generally declined to comment on the letter.

The Arizona Department of Water Resources has no comment on this, spokeswoman Shauna Evans said Tuesday.

The Southern Nevada Water Authority, a key negotiator, noted that the tribes sent the letter to the Interior Department, so we are not in a position to provide any comment, spokesman Bronson Mack said Monday. I think that needs to be answered by (Interior) or the Bureau of Reclamation. Im not trying to deflect here, but thats really a matter for the feds.

Another key player, Southern Californias six-county Metropolitan Water District, noted that, Metropolitan does not set up meetings related to the ongoing Colorado River discussions, nor decides who is invited. Those decisions are determined by the federal government and representatives of the seven basin states, spokeswoman Rebecca Kimitch said Monday.

Officials of the Colorado River Board of California, which represents that state at the talks, didnt respond to a request for comment.

Not the first complaint

This isnt the first time tribal representatives have complained about being left out of discussions concerning the rivers future.

In March 2016, Stephen Roe Lewis, chairman of the Gila River Indian Community, publicly criticized state and federal officials for leaving tribes out of the seven-state talks looking for ways to save water in the basin.

It is a glaring misstep that needs to be corrected, Lewis told a White House water summit. We want to be at the table. At our hearts, were stewards of the land. When we start talking about innovation, we have very innovative solutions to water management.

Arizonas water chief, Tom Buschatzke, replied at the time that he had discussed the ongoing negotiations with the Gila River tribe but that it would be impractical to expand participation in the talks.

I think you can understand that probably every water user in the state would want to be in that room, and that is not possible, said Buschatzke, director of the Arizona Department of Water Resources.

The Gila River community later became a major participant in in-state talks that led to the 2019 Lower Basin Drought Contingency Plan. As part of that plan, the tribe gave up more water to prop up Lake Mead than any other Arizona water user.

And in their November 2021 letter to Haaland, the 20 tribes asked to be involved on two fronts. One involved efforts by the bureau and basin states to adapt the 2019 drought plan to the rivers existing and emerging hydrologic conditions, which have worsened in the past three years. The second involved the still-unstarted negotiations that will lead to a revision of the 2007 multistate guidelines for operating the Colorados reservoirs, including Lakes Mead and Powell.

In the tribes most recent, July 22 letter, they said they appreciated Haalands followup meeting with them in March in Albuquerque in response to the earlier letter. They were encouraged by Interiors commitments there to support tribal inclusion in development of policies and rules governing the river, the letter said.

They also noted that in late June, Interior wrote up a Federal Register notice committing to engage and consult with basin tribes in a meaningful and transparent matter during the upcoming process under federal environmental laws to develop new guidelines to manage the reservoirs.

But since the tribal governments believe the current seven-state negotiations are one of these processes, we are concerned that basin tribes are not being kept appropriately informed of developments there. Government-to-government consultation must, therefore, take place as soon as possible, they wrote.
DALLAS (AP)  A suburban Dallas man who evaded arrest for more than 12 years after the fatal shootings of his two teenage daughters in 2008 was convicted Tuesday in the killings that prosecutors said were driven by his obsessive desire for control.

Yaser Said, 65, was found guilty of capital murder in the deaths of 18-year-old Amina Said and 17-year-old Sarah Said. Prosecutors did not pursue the death penalty, so with the conviction, the judge sentenced Yaser Said to life in prison without parole.

The teens' mother, Patricia Owens, told her former husband in a victim impact statement given after the verdict and sentence that she was no longer scared of him.

You can keep those evil eyes on me as long as you want. You will never break me down again," Owens said. "Nor will you ever be able to hurt another person."

Prosecutor Lauren Black said in closing statements that Said manipulated and controlled that household. She said that when Said's daughters wanted to live their own lives, he could see that he was losing control. He was not going to be able to deal with that, so he took their lives, Black said.

The sisters were found shot to death in a taxi that their father had been driving that was parked near a hotel in the Dallas suburb of Irving on New Years Day in 2008. Jurors heard a 911 call Sarah Said made by cellphone, telling the operator that her father had shot her and that she was dying.

Shes screaming out from the grave right now, Black told jurors after playing the 911 call during closing statements.

Sarah Said was shot nine times and Amina Said was shot twice.

Defense attorneys, who said they would appeal the verdict, said people can have hallucinations in moments of extreme trauma, such as when they have been shot multiple times. They also said the evidence did not support a conviction, and that police were too quick to focus on Said as the suspect.

A week before they were killed, the girls and their mother had fled their home in the Dallas suburb of Lewisville and went to Oklahoma to escape Said. The sisters boyfriends also joined them. The prosecutor said the sisters had become very scared for their lives, and decided to leave after their father put a gun to Aminas head and threatened to kill her.

According to a police report, a family member told investigators that Said at one point had threatened bodily harm against one of his daughters for dating a non-Muslim.

In a letter to the judge before the trial, Said wrote that he was not happy with his daughters dating activity but he denied killing them.

Owens, who divorced Said after the slayings, testified that Said was abusive and controlling, and had convinced her to return to Texas from Oklahoma.

Owens testified that when she married Said, she was 15 and he was 29. She told him while giving her victim impact statement that he'd never treated me like a real person, a wife. Instead, she said, she was just someone for him to take his anger out on.

Remember when you put the knife to my throat? I do. Remember when you pointed a gun at me? I do, she said.

Said took the stand on Monday, telling jurors that he did not kill his daughters. Said told jurors that the evening the sisters were killed, he was taking them to dinner because he wanted to solve the problem after they had left home. He said he thought someone was following them, so he had left his daughters in the taxi and fled. He said he did not turn himself in to authorities because he feared he would not get a fair trial.

Prosecutor Brandi Mitchell called his testimony absurd."

In a Dec. 21, 2007, email that was brought into evidence, Amina Said told a teacher that she and her sister planned to run away. She said they didnt want to live by the culture of their father, who was born in Egypt. Her father, she said, had made our lives a nightmare.

He will, without any drama nor doubt, kill us, the email read.

After the slayings, Said was sought on a capital murder warrant, and was placed on the FBIs most-wanted list. He was finally arrested arrested in August 2020 in Justin, about 35 miles (60 kilometers) northwest of Dallas. His son, Islam Said, and his brother, Yassim Said, were subsequently convicted of helping him evade arrest.
CONCORD, N.C. (AP)  The mother of a man fatally shot by a North Carolina police officer during an attempted car theft filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday claiming the officer broke the law when he shot her unarmed son several times, called in the incident, then fired again.

Brandon Combs died after he was shot while behind the wheel of Concord Officer Timothy Larsons police SUV in February, attorneys said.

Attorneys for Virginia Tayara filed the complaint Tuesday in Winston-Salem federal court accusing Larson and the City of Concord of excessive force, assault and battery, wrongful and intentional death and gross negligence, The Charlotte Observer reported. Attorney Harry Daniels said the complaint seeks some form of justice for the Combs family. The family also hopes the civil complaint will jump start some criminal charge or indictment against Larson, he said.

Police officers cannot be judge, jury and executioner. Thats why we have a criminal justice system. Thats why we have the rule of law, Daniels said.

The Cabarrus County District Attorneys Office is investigating Combs death and has had the findings of a probe by the State Bureau of Investigation since June.

Concord Police said in a statement Tuesday that the department was aware of the lawsuit, and we understand people want to know more about the officer and his actions on February 13. To protect the integrity of the review, the department wont make any further comment until the district attorney announces her decision, police said.

Larson, who was later fired by his department, could not be reached for comment and his attorney did not immediately respond to emails from the newspaper seeking comment.

Concord police initially said Larson shot Combs following a physical altercation at the Modern Nissan car dealership, where the 29-year-old Gastonia man was trying to steal a truck. But Daniels said Larsons body-camera captured the truth.

The video has not been publicly released, but Daniels and other family attorneys have seen it. Daniels, who represented the family of Andre Brown after he was fatally shot last year by deputies in Elizabeth City, has called the Combs footage one of the worst police shooting videos he has ever seen.

According to the lawsuit, when Combs got behind the wheel of Larsons patrol vehicle, Larson fired five shots through the windshield of the vehicle, which was not moving. He called in the shooting to the department dispatchers, then fired again.

Larson did not go to Combs aid, the lawsuit claims. Larson, 27, later told the other officers at the scene that he shot Combs because he was trying to steal his SUV.
OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP)  Republican Joe Kent, who challenged incumbent Republican Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler over her vote to impeach former President Donald Trump, has taken a narrow lead in the race for the second spot in Washington states top two primary.

Under the state's primary system, all candidates run on the same ballot, and the top two vote getters advance to the November election, regardless of party.

Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez had already advanced to the November ballot since she was the top vote getter after the Aug. 2 primary, with 31% of the vote. Herrera Beutler, who had about 24% on Election Night, dropped to just over 22% by Monday, and was trailing Kent  a former Green Beret endorsed by Trump who surged in late returns and had nearly 23% of the vote by 960 votes.

A mandatory recount would occur if the margin of votes between the No. 2 and No. 3 candidates is less than half of 1% and closer than 2,000 votes.

An estimated 10,000 votes are left to count in Clark County, the district's largest, and another update won't occur until Tuesday afternoon. Several hundred votes remain to be counted in the district's other counties, but counties have until Aug. 16 to finish their count and for canvassing boards to certify the results, followed by certification by the secretary of state by Aug. 19.

Because Washington is a vote-by-mail state and ballots just need to be in by Election Day, it often takes days to learn final results in close races as ballots arrive at county election offices throughout the week.

Of the 10 House Republicans who voted for Trumps impeachment, four opted not to run for reelection. Michigan Rep. Peter Meijer was defeated in a primary Tuesday by Trump-endorsed John Gibbs and Rep. Tom Rice of South Carolina lost to a Trump-endorsed challenger in June. Rep. David Valadao of California  which has an open primary like Washington  survived a primary challenge. Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming is bracing for defeat in her Aug. 16 primary against a Trump-backed rival.

Washington Rep. Dan Newhouse advanced to the general election in his Washington state primary last week, fending off a Trump-endorsed rival, and will appear on the November ballot with Democratic opponent Doug White.
A reception to remember and celebrate the lives of longtime Sand Springs Public Schools educators Wendell and Connie Sharpton will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday in the Dr. Wendell Sharpton Library at Clyde Boyd Middle School.

Wendell Sharpton served the school district for 34 years, including 15 years as its superintendent. He died June 12 at age 90.

Connie Sharpton taught in the district for 24 years. She died 23 days after Wendell, on July 5, at age 82.

The couple were married for 57 years.

I think anytime you have a person who has served the community in this role, its important to honor them, Superintendent Sherry Durkee said. This jobs difficult. Shouldering the responsibility of a district of children is a big job, so its our honor to allow the family to come in and celebrate his life and allow our people to come in and show their respect, because he was very loved in the community.

Wendell Aquilla Sharpton was born Feb. 1, 1932, in Wedowee, Alabama. He graduated from Dewey High School in Dewey, Oklahoma, and received a bachelors degree from Bethany Peniel College in Bethany before becoming a speech and debate teacher in Blackwell in 1952. He eventually joined Tulsa Public Schools as a speech teacher and counselor.

He began his tenure with Sand Springs Public Schools teaching debate, speech and commercial law.

Wendell Sharpton was named Sand Springs Teacher of the Year for 1964-65. That same year, he shifted his career focus to educational administration, serving as assistant superintendent and director of instruction while completing his Ed.D. at Oklahoma State University, his family wrote in his obituary.

He became the superintendent in 1977, holding the post for 15 years.

He was an active member and president of the Rotary Club and belonged to the Sand Springs Church of God.

Wendell had two children from a previous marriage, and while working toward a masters degree at the University of Arkansas in the summer of 1964, he began a romance with Connie Clulow.

Cornelia Jean Connie (Clulow) Sharpton was born March 18, 1940, in Washington, D.C. She graduated from Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1958 during a pivotal era in the civil rights movement, taking inspiration from the resolve of her classmates of color who were integrating her school.

Connie later received a bachelors degree in English from the University of Arkansas and continued with graduate studies at the University of Arkansas and Auburn University.

After meeting Wendell, she moved to Emporia, Kansas, to begin her teaching career at what is now Emporia State University in the fall of 1964. By the years end, she and Wendell were married, although they lived apart for the rest of the school year.

In the summer of 1965, Connie moved to Sand Springs. The couple soon had two daughters, with whom she stayed home for a time before returning to the classroom. She spent 24 years in education, primarily as an English teacher at Charles Page High School.

She completed her career in Sand Springs as director of the alternative learning program, her family wrote in her obituary.

On Sundays, she also could be found teaching Sunday school or childrens church at the Sand Springs Church of God.

Upon their retirement in 1992, Wendell and Connie moved to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas.

In 2014, Wendells increasing health challenges connected to Parkinsons disease prompted him to move to a senior community near their daughter Stacey in Austin, Texas.

In 2018, Connie moved to the St. Louis area near their daughter Leslie, where she faced challenges associated with Alzheimers disease.

Wendell was predeceased by his daughter Gale Worley, his parents and a sister. He is survived by three children, Stacey Loop of Austin, Leslie Johnson of St. Louis, and Victor Sharpton of Sand Springs; nine grandchildren; and a brother.

Connie was predeceased by her parents and a brother. She is survived by daughters Stacey Loop of Austin and Leslie Johnson of St. Louis; five grandchildren; a sister-in-law; and a nephew and two nieces.

A joint graveside memorial service for the Sharptons will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Woodland Memorial Park Cemetery.

Friends are contributing to any of their favorite organizations: Children Evangelism Fellowship, Power for Parkinsons, Fellowship of Christian Athletes or the Sand Springs Education Foundation.
The Bixby Police Department has classified the deaths of Sherry Gamble Smith and her husband, Martin Everett Smith, as a murder and suicide.

Police said the woman was shot and killed by her husband on July 6.

Evidence at the scene, as well as digital evidence and home security video show that Martin Everett Smith shot and killed Sherry Gamble Smith during a domestic argument at their Bixby home, a Bixby Police Department news release says.

Evidence and interviews confirm that the couple had been involved in an on-going domestic problem that began several days before the incident.

According to police, the couple had been involved in a domestic problem that began several days before the shootings, and Smith had sat alone in the garage most of the night.

On the morning of July 6, security video shows Smith removing a pistol from the garage, placing it in his waistband and entering the home. Shortly thereafter, Smith placed a phone call to an out-of-state family member prior to killing Sherry Gamble Smith before turning the gun on himself, the press release says.

Gamble Smith died at the scene. Smith died later that day at a Tulsa hospital, police said.

Smith was a Postal Service employee, and Gamble Smith was the president of the Black Wall Street Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
Former City Councilor Blake Ewing is going back to work at City Hall.

Mayor G.T. Bynum announced Monday that he has hired his friend and former City Council colleague to be his new chief of staff. Ewing, 43, will take over for Kathryn Junk, who is leaving her position.

Blake was the first person that came to mind to replace Junk, Bynum said. And he is somebody that, when we served together on the City Council, I always respected because I always thought of him as sort of like  he was the conscience of what Tulsa could be.

I have always teased him  he is always the one at the table challenging us to think bigger and aim higher. And he also, I think, comes at this kind of work from the same place I do, which is this kind of old-fashioned notion that public service is more important than partisan politics.

And he knows the people; he knows the issues.

Ewing is currently employed at OKPOP Museum, where he is the chief operating officer and creative director. He represented District 4 on the City Council from 2011 to 2018.

OKPOP is my favorite thing that I have ever done, Ewing said. There is nothing bad there that I am walking away from. Those are my closest friends. I like to make stuff. I like to create things, and at OKPOP I got to be creative every day. And it was absolutely a fantastic time.

Ultimately, Ewing said, he could not pass up the opportunity to work with Bynum to move the city forward.

I love Tulsa. I have always believed in its potential and really feel like we are in an exciting time as a community.  There are not very many things that could have gotten me away from what I was doing, but I just saw this as an opportunity I couldnt pass up, Ewing said.

I didnt want to regret it for the rest of my life that I had a chance to come and do a thing with G.T. to work on Tulsa together.

Bynum hired Junk as his chief of staff in November 2020, as he was preparing to start his second term.

Kathryn Junk has been one of my closest advisers since I first started running for mayor in 2016, Bynum said. She stepped away from her career in the private sector to serve as my chief of staff at a crucial time for Tulsa and our team at City Hall.

Always eager to put others out in front for the credit when things go well, Kathryn helped me navigate a series of important personnel changes and policy initiatives. I am so grateful for the sacrifices she and her family have made to build a better Tulsa.

Asked why Junk was leaving, Bynum said: Kathryn is the first person in the history of government who really is leaving to spend more time with their family.

Ewing will begin his new job in early September. His annual salary will be $143,367.

Featured video: Gilcrease Turnpike nearing completion
Contract termination proceedings that once threatened Epic Charter Schools future were formally ended on Tuesday.

The Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board voted 3-0 to dismiss those sponsorship contract termination proceedings, initially begun in October 2020 and on hold since April 2021, when a consent agreement deal bought Epic more time to try to come into compliance with its sponsor.

It is a big deal. Its almost anticlimactic today, but it has been a hell of a ride, said Robert Franklin, who serves as chairman of the virtual charter school board.

The Statewide Virtual Charter School Board initiated termination proceedings against Epic, the states largest online public school, shortly after an October 2020 state investigative audit uncovered years of illegal administrative cost overruns, comingling of funds that should have been kept separate by Epics two Oklahoma schools, and the use of Oklahoma taxpayer dollars and taxpayer-funded school employees for a third Epic charter school operating in Southern California.

A consent agreement between Epic school leaders and the virtual charter school board was reached in 2021 to separate all administrative functions and governance of Epics two schools, but Epic struggled to come into full compliance with the deal.

One of the final hang-ups was Epics longtime practice of sharing employees between two separate schools and having only one governing board with the same members overseeing both schools.

Because state funds for the two schools were found to have been comingled in previous years, the statewide virtual charter school board was insistent that Epics two schools have two independent governing boards to represent each schools interests and adopt shared service agreements if the schools wished to continue sharing employees.

Instead, Epics governing board chose to consolidate into a single school, with the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board agreeing to sponsor it. Rose State College, which authorized Epics second school system  Epic Blended Learning Centers  also approved of the consolidation.

Epic Superintendent Bart Banfield called Tuesdays vote to formally end the termination proceedings a milestone moment in the history of Epic Charter School.

It has been a long road, but on behalf of our Epic team and Board of Education, we are grateful for the patience and direction provided to us by the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board and its leadership, Banfield said in a written press statement. Today, our hard work and dedication to transforming Epic Charter School was recognized by the organization directly in charge of our oversight.

Franklin, who works as associate superintendent at Tulsa Tech, said dealing with such a fiscal and legal crisis at a sponsored charter school has significantly altered the way the Statewide Virtual Charter School Board approaches oversight of existing schools and potential sponsorship of new applicants.

I think our ligaments have been stretched. To say how important this oversight is and the commitment that the three (virtual charter school) board members have taken professionally and personally is serious, Franklin said.

I give my colleagues high marks for staying with this. I think we have been changed dramatically and our executive director has been changed dramatically. Were all asking tougher questions and we are all in a place that is more attentive.

Epic co-founders Ben Harris and David Chaney, who made themselves millionaires by setting up the for-profit Epic Youth Services company to manage the Epic schools, lost control of Epic in May 2021 in the aftermath of the extremely critical investigative audit by the Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspectors Office.

In total, Epic has been docked about $20 million by the Oklahoma State Department of Education for hiding years worth of administrative overhead costs that exceeded statutory limits for all public schools in the state.

Chaney, Harris and their longtime chief financial officer, Josh Brock, are now facing criminal charges in a massive racketeering case filed in June, and the Internal Revenue Service recently expanded its ongoing audit of Epic to include an additional two years under the schools former for-profit managers.
Police announced a breakthrough Tuesday in the killings of four Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico, charging a man from Afghanistan  himself a Muslim  with two of the slayings and identifying him as a prime suspect in the other killings that put the entire community on edge.

Muhammad Syed, 51, was taken into custody a day earlier after a traffic stop more than 100 miles away, authorities said.

Three of the four ambush shootings happened in the last two weeks. Police Chief Harold Medina said it was not clear yet whether the deaths should be classified as hate crimes or serial killings or both.

Investigators received a tip from the city's Muslim community that pointed toward Syed, who has lived in the U.S. for about five years, police said.

Police were looking into possible motives, including an unspecified interpersonal conflict."

When asked specifically if Syed, a Sunni Muslim, was angry that his daughter married a Shiite Muslim, Deputy Police Cmdr. Kyle Hartsock did not respond directly. He said motives are still being explored fully to understand what they are.

Ahmad Assed, president of the Islamic Center of New Mexico, acknowledged that "there was a marriage, but he cautioned against coming to any conclusions about the motivation of the suspect, who he said attended the centers mosque from time to time.

Knowing where we were, you know, a few days ago to where we are today is an incredible sigh of relief that were breathing, he said. Lives have been turned upside down.

The exact nature of the relationships between Syed and the victims  and the victims to one another  remained unclear. But police said they continue to investigate how they crossed paths before the shootings.

The slayings drew the attention of President Joe Biden, who said such attacks "have no place in America." They also sent a shudder through Muslim communities across the U.S. Some people questioned their safety and limited their movements.

When told about the arrest before the suspect's identity was made public, Muhammad Imtiaz Hussain, brother of one of the victims, Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, said he felt relieved but needed to know more about the assailant and the motive.

"This gives us hope that we will have (the) truth come out, he said. We need to know why.

It was not immediately clear whether Syed had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

Naeem Hussain, a 25-year-old man from Pakistan, was killed Friday night. His death came just days after those of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, and Aftab Hussein, 41, who were also from Pakistan and members of the same mosque.

The earliest case involves the November killing of Mohammad Ahmadi, 62, from Afghanistan.

For now, Syed is charged in the killings of Aftab Hussein and Muhammad Afzaal Hussain because bullet casings found at the crime scenes were linked to a gun found at his home, authorities said.

Investigators consider Syed to be the primary suspect in the deaths of Naeem Hussain and Ahmadi but have not yet filed charges in those cases.

Police said they were about to search Syeds Albuquerque home on Monday when they saw him drive away in a Volkswagen Jetta that investigators believe was used in at least one of the slayings.

Officers followed him to Santa Rosa, about 110 miles east of Albuquerque, where they pulled him over. Multiple firearms were recovered from his home and car, police said.

Syeds sons were questioned and released, according to authorities.

Prosecutors expect to file murder charges in state court and are considering adding a federal case, authorities said.

Shiites make up the second largest branch in Islam after Sunnis.

Aneela Abad, general secretary at the Islamic center, said the two Muslim communities in New Mexico enjoy warm ties.

Our Shiite community has always been there for us and we, Sunnis, have always been there for them, she said.

Muhammad Afzaal Hussain had worked as a field organizer for Democratic Rep. Melanie Stansburys campaign.

Muhammad was kind, hopeful, optimistic," she said, describing him as a city planner "who believed in democracy and social change, and who believed that we could, in fact, build a brighter future for our communities and for our world. ___

Dazio reported from Los Angeles and Fam from Winter Park, Florida. Associated Press writer Robert Jablon in LA also contributed to this report.
OKLAHOMA CITY  Oklahoma Department of Corrections Director Scott Crow announced his retirement on Monday.

Crows last day as director will be Oct. 31.

Crow joined the DOC in April 1996 following a career in law enforcement, with roles ranging from officer to leadership.

In his 26 years with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, Crow has served in several capacities, including inspector general, administrator of field operations and chief of operations.

He was named interim director in June 2019, following the departure of former Director Joe Allbaugh.

In December 2019, Gov. Kevin Stitt appointed Crow the agencys director, removing the interim title.

I take pride in knowing I am leaving the agency in better shape than it was when I became director, and the staff should receive all of the credit for that, Crow said in a news release. For three years, I have been fortunate enough to lead the thousands of talented professionals in this agency.

Leading the agency has been the highest honor in his law enforcement career, Crow said.

Scott Crow has led the Department of Corrections with professionalism and has been an outstanding partner in executing our vision to run state government more efficiently and reform criminal justice in Oklahoma, Stitt said.

Since 2019 when he became director, our state has improved in recidivism to number one in the nation, he continued. We closed three full-size prisons to save taxpayer resources, and we have over 4,500 fewer inmates in our prisons, all while ensuring public safety.

After more than three decades of devoted state service, Director Crow has earned a restful and enjoyable retirement. I am grateful for his willingness to take on the challenge of leading a state agency and I wish him and his family the best.

Featured video with Oklahoma DOC Director Scott Crow: All lives in Oklahoma matter, including those that are in our prisons
The Stitt administration has made good on its threat to sue a Florida company it hired to administer a federal education program that the U.S. Department of Education says was mismanaged.

On Friday, the state filed suit in Oklahoma County District Court against Kleo Inc., which does business under the name Classwallet, charging breach of contract and negligence and/or fraudulent misrepresentation. It also asks that Classwallet be found responsible for producing documentation demanded by federal investigators.

Classwallet had no immediate response to the suit.

The administration claims that Classwallet is to blame for an unflattering federal audit of Oklahomas handling of the Governors Emergency Education Relief Fund, known as GEER. The state received nearly $40 million through GEER, which was a component of the COVID-related federal CARES Act.

That audit, released in July, said the money administered through the Oklahoma State Department of Education was properly managed but that $31 million under the control of Gov. Kevin Stitts office lacked sufficient documentation and in some cases seemed to be spent improperly.

Several million dollars of the states GEER allocation were not spent at all.

The audit recommended that the U.S. Department of Education pursue the return of more than $6 million from the state. It is particularly critical of two programs, Bridge the Gap and Stay in School.

Bridge the Gap provided grants to parents for education-related expenses, and Stay in School was supposed to help low-income students make private school tuition payments.

The audit found that some Bridge the Gap grants were used for such things as household appliances, security cameras, televisions and stereos and that the eligibility of Stay in School recipients was not sufficiently verified.

Stitt and Oklahoma Secretary of Education Ryan Walters maintain that Classwallet, which they hired to oversee the programs, is to blame.

The federal audit directs its attention to Walters, who was involved in choosing Classwallet while still a private citizen and not yet a member of the Stitt administration. Emails cited in the audit indicate that Walters declined to use a security setting that would have prevented Bridge the Gap funds from being spent with multi-line retailers such as Walmart and Home Depot. Walters said he did not want to limit recipients retailer options.

Walters is now a Republican candidate for state superintendent of public instruction.

The lawsuit was randomly assigned to Oklahoma County District Judge Sheila Stinson, who was originally appointed to the bench by Stitt and is the wife of state Rep. Preston Stinson, R-Edmond.

Tulsa World Opinion podcast: Tulsa Public Schools targeted by state leaders
Experience matters, says Republican state superintendent of public instruction candidate April Grace. Take Oklahomas adventure with federal COVID relief money for education, she said.

Speaking Monday evening at the Tulsa Press Club, Grace was asked to analyze the imbroglio in which the federal government is asking for COVID-related education funds back from the state and the state is suing its private vendor.

No. 1, you dont give a no-bid contract, said Grace, whose Aug. 23 runoff opponent, Ryan Walters, was largely responsible for the program.

Secondly, its making sure you understand federal regulations and whats required and whats allowed for those dollars, she said.

The federal audit (from the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General) seemed pretty specific that the appropriate steps were not taken.

Grace has been superintendent of Shawnee Public Schools since 2016, was the Oklahoma Superintendent of the Year in 2021 and has been an educator for 33 years.

She says thats what sets her apart from Walters, a 37-year-old former teacher with no administration experience but who has been state secretary of education the past two years.

It is dangerous for the future  of our state, she said, to put someone in the state superintendents position who does not have that understanding of how schools operate and what actually needs to happen to move schools forward.

Quite honestly, I dont think my opponent has that. I just dont. Hes never led anything. Hes never managed anything, and he doesnt have any actual solutions or plans about Oklahoma education.

Grace resisted being drawn into the dispute involving Tulsa and Mustang public schools and and the State Board of Education over an alleged violation of the states no controversial subjects rule that resulted in a downgrade of TPS accreditation. She doesnt, she said, have enough information.

Tulsa Public Schools was accredited with a warning for the next year at a recent state school board meeting based on an assertion that an August 2021 professional development session on implicit bias was not in compliance with House Bill 1775.

The law prohibits teaching that one race or sex is inherently superior to another. It also prohibits causing a student to feel guilty or uncomfortable because of their race or gender, as well as teaching that anyone is inherently racist, sexist or oppressive.

Under the law, a violation of HB 1775 is considered a deficiency with respect to accreditation, not cause for a warning.

After some prodding, Grace said what took place was not the normal process. The normal process would be deficiency, opportunity to correct, etc. Theres a process.

Grace and Walters disagree on some policy matters, most notably using tax money for private schools. Grace said public schools are already underfunded, while Walters is a vocal proponent of the states subsidizing private school tuition and home schooling.

Tulsa World Opinion podcast: Tulsa Public Schools targeted by state leaders
With the January 6th Committee on a short summer pause, it will look to carry the momentum of the most recent hearings into the fall. One of the critical issues it will need to deal with on a deeply practical level is executive privilege, which has been claimed by multiple prospective witnesses.

Counterintuitively and contrary to the belief of some prospective witnesses, the executive privilege resides with the current chief executive  President Biden  not former President Donald Trump.

Back in the innocent time known as the Watergate era (1974), the Supreme Court dealt with executive privilege in United States v. Nixon. There, the court found that while still president, Nixon put forth inadequate arguments as to why the White House tapes should be privileged. Three days after Nixon said he was disappointed but would ultimately comply with the courts decision, the Select Judiciary Committee approved three articles of impeachment.

But this case is germane because claims of executive privilege regarding the events of January 6th might eventually have to be resolved by the highest courts of the land rather than negotiations between a congressional committee and reticent witnesses.

The battle is one of the rights of executive privilege versus a grand jurys right to investigate one of the most significant insurrections in the nations history. While its tempting to think this has to be more complex than saying that criminality outweighs executive privilege, thats essentially the crux of it.

Whats missing from the executive privilege conversations we see in the media is the mention of United States v. Reynolds, a critically important case through which any executive privilege claim needs to pass.

Reynolds was a case about a tragic plane crash that killed U.S. military personnel and civilians. The plane was transporting secret electronic equipment when it crashed. Three widows of the dead civilians wanted information about the Air Force investigation that ensued.

The question presented to the Supreme Court was whether a trial court in a civil case must view in the plaintiffs favor the point on which privilege is claimed and information is withheld.

In the 1953 decision, the Supreme Court held that the government may withhold information for reasons of national security even when that information is vital to the plaintiffs case, but the cause for privilege must be reasonably demonstrated.

John Lawlor, a Florida lawyer, explains: What this all means today is that executive privilege must be claimed and/or waived by the government but not any private individual and that it cant be invoked lightly.

This means a few essential things about the January 6th Committee. The Supreme Court should ultimately land on the notion that Trump cant invoke executive privilege today because hes not the executive but is a private citizen. It is a corollary that any government official who was involved with January 6th and is trying to invoke executive privilege, as several have, really cant. Whether or not they are currently working in government or are private citizens, none of them is the executive. Again, the only executive today in the executive privilege equation is the 46th president of the United States, Joe Biden.

What really should be important for all of us regarding the events of January 6th is discovering the truth, no matter what public officials, private citizens and political ideologies are helped or harmed. Yet, with this lynchpin of executive privilege, we will have to look to the courts for their guidance and direction.
A handful of commercial electric vehicle (EV) startups are burning through cash fast, racing to bring vans or trucks to market before the funds run out or customers choose to buy from legacy automakers like Ford Motor Co or General Motors Co.

Boosted by investor hunger to create the next Tesla Inc, a clutch of commercial EV makers on both sides of the Atlantic have gone public via reverse mergers with special-purpose acquisition companies (SPACs), raising hundreds of millions of dollars as they sought to emulate Elon Musk's success. These include Arrival Inc , Canoo Inc, Lordstown Motors Corp, Electric Last Mile Solutions Inc (ELMS) and REE Automotive Holding Inc.

But investors have soured on EV startups and their ability to compete with legacy carmakers, sending their shares to a fraction of their peak prices. This has raised the pressure to produce working vehicles fast if they want to raise fresh funds in an industry where launching a single vehicle can cost $1 billion.

"It's vitally important at this stage to get vehicles into customers' hands," said Daniel Barel, chief executive of Israeli electric chassis maker REE Automotive, which has run vehicle tests with customers near Detroit and will unveil a UK prototype van this week. "Only then can they make a real decision to buy."

REE's chassis use "corners" or standalone in-wheel electric motors, with brakes and steering housed in all or some of the wheels of an EV that do not need axles or powertrains, freeing up more space inside a van.

To get to market faster, REE has tapped legacy suppliers like American Axle for electric motors and Italy's Brembo for brakes. Companies like EAVX and Morgan Olson, units of commercial vehicle body maker JB Poindexter & Co, will provide standardized bodies for REE's U.S. trucks.

Daniel Barrel, CEO of REE Automotive stands in front of an electric vehicle on display at the American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti, Michigan, U.S. July 28, 2022. Photo: Reuters

"We want to keep true to what we're about and let others bring their expertise in for the rest," said vice president for engineering Peter Dow at REE's engineering centre in Nuneaton, England.

The clock is ticking.

REE's shares are almost 90% below their July 2021 debut. The company had $239 million in cash at the end of March and expects to invest up to $120 million in 2022 to scale up for production in 2023.

"We're on track, we're on budget, we've got everything we need to take it to the market," CEO Barel said while demonstrating a test vehicle near Detroit, adding that REE has enough cash to last beyond the end of 2023.

Others have already struggled, however.

ELMS filed for bankruptcy liquidation in June, citing insufficient funding, while Lordstown had to sell assets to Taiwanese contract manufacturer Foxconn.

In May, Canoo disclosed "substantial doubt" about its ability to continue as a going concern, but recently received a boost when Walmart Inc ordered 4,500 vehicles.

Obtaining more cash could be tough.

"The market right now is not an ideal market to raise capital," said Dakota Semler, CEO of Los Angeles-based Xos Inc, which already has 200 electric trucks operating on U.S. roads for customers including Amazon.com Inc delivery contractors.

Xos had $132.7 million in cash at the end of March and can raise $125 million more via a share purchase deal with a unit of U.S. investment firm Yorkville Advisors.

Israeli electric chassis maker REE Automotive test one of their vehicles at the American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti, Michigan, U.S. July 28, 2022. Photo: Reuters

'Tough at the moment'

Legacy automakers are turning up the heat.

FedEx Corp has 150 BrightDrop electric trucks running deliveries around Los Angeles.

"It feels like you're in the future now," FedEx driver Nelson Granados, 28, told a Reuters reporter as he made deliveries during a ride-along in a BrightDrop EV.

FedEx has ordered 2,500 BrightDrop trucks, spurred by a combination of the 18-month-old company's technology and GM's manufacturing muscle, FedEx's chief sustainability officer, Mitch Jackson, told Reuters.

Potential new entrants have taken note.

British EV startup Bedeo makes electric powertrains for vans for world No. 4 automaker Stellantis NV and said earlier this year it was talking to investors about building its own vans.

Despite its track record - vehicles with Bedeo powertrains have clocked over 50 million km (31 million miles) - executives say investors are now wary of competing with the likes of Ford's electric Transit van.

"A large-scale capital raise is tough at the moment," said Andrew Whitehead, CEO of Bedeo unit Protean Electric.

Bedeo CEO Osman Boyner said the company will instead start converting existing diesel vans later this year using Protean's in-wheel electric motors so they can run in electric mode in cities with low-emission zones and diesel on longer journeys.

Bedeo is also talking to legacy automakers about producing small, specialized production runs of 5,000 or so vans for them.

"Big automakers don't want to do that in-house," Boyner said. "Those numbers are too small for them, but they're big numbers for companies like us."

A view of the interior of an Israeli electric chassis maker REE Automotive vehicle at the American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti, Michigan, U.S. July 28, 2022. Photo: Reuters

'Less favorable terms'

EV startups are cutting back.

Rivian said earlier this year that its $16 billion in cash as of the end of March was enough to fund its second U.S. plant for $5 billion, targeted to open in 2025, but it announced in late July that it would cut its workforce by 6% to reduce costs.

Amazon has ordered 100,000 vans from Rivian, whose stock has fallen more than 80% from a peak hit shortly after its November 2021 initial public offering.

UK electric van and bus maker Arrival also plans to cut costs.

Arrival had $500 million in cash in mid-July, almost 45% down from roughly $905 million at the end of 2021. Its stock is almost 93% below its March 2021 debut.

Chief Financial Officer John Wozniak said in a statement that restructuring will fund Arrival's operations until late 2023.

The startup has begun phased trials with United Parcel Service Inc , which has ordered up to 10,000 Arrival vans.

Daniel Barrel, CEO of REE Automotive stands Mark Hope, COO and GM of EAVX (with in front of an electric vehicle on display at the American Center for Mobility in Ypsilanti, Michigan, U.S. July 28, 2022. Photo: Reuters

"We believe that we will continue to access funding from a number of different sources," Wozniak said. "However, the terms may be less favourable and the amount and timing remains uncertain, which is why the company announced the measures it is taking to preserve cash."

Startups that avoided going public via SPAC mergers are now waiting for the market to improve.

In February Stockholm-based Volta Trucks raised 230 million euros ($235 million) in funding to ramp up electric truck production.

Spokesman Duncan Forrester said Volta has prototype trucks in customers' hands and is on track for series production in early 2023. It has an order book of more than 6,500 trucks valued at around 1.4 billion euros.

Later in 2023, Volta will look to raise funds, either through fresh fundraising or an initial public offering.

"From an investor perspective, that will be a different conversation because we'll be able to demonstrate a track record of bringing vehicles to market," Forrester said.
Here are todays leading news stories:

COVID-19 Updates

-- Vietnams Ministry of Health documented 1,705 COVID-19 cases on Monday, raising the national tally to 11,349,223, with 9,982,345 recoveries and 43,094 deaths.

Society

-- The developer of the Trung Luong-My Thuan Expressway, a major expressway in southern Vietnam that was inaugurated in late April, began the electronic toll collection (ETC) on Tuesday.

-- A low-pressure area in the East Vietnam Sea developed into a tropical depression on Monday and is expected to become a storm over the next few days, while its direction remains unpredictable.

-- A 37-year-old man and his dog were killed after he lost control of his motorbike while carrying the pet and crashed into the road fencing in northern Thai Binh Province on Monday afternoon.

-- A man was stabbed to death following an argument over a money-related conflict with another person in Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City early on Monday morning.

-- The Ministry of Health on Monday requested local authorities to correct medical facilities that advertised the treatment of homosexuality, bisexuality, and transsexuality.

-- A 23-year-old man from northern Hai Duong Province has been given a nine-month flight ban after he failed to pay a fine for smoking on a plane in late June.

-- An inferno engulfed the electronic component factory of a Taiwanese company at Quang Minh Industrial Park in Me Linh District, Hanoi on Monday and was eventually put out after authorities mobilized 30 fire engines to the site.

-- Two police officers in Tieu Can District in the Mekong Delta province of Tra Vinh have been probed on suspicion of fraud and property appropriation, the provincial Department of Public Security confirmed on Monday.

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A Vietnam Airlines flight from Hanoi to Tokyo, Japan had to make a U-turn over Chinese airspace to return to the Vietnamese capital city for medical treatment for a Japanese child passenger with a nosebleed on Monday.

Just 35 minutes following its departure from Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi at 7:35 am on Monday, flight VN384 operated by flag carrier Vietnam Airlines turned around as blood kept coming out of a ten-year-old Japanese childs nose despite first aid given by flight attendants.

The plane, a Boeing 787, was within the airspace of Nanning City in Guangxi Province, China at that time.

The young passenger, in seat 24A, was traveling with a sister and their mother.

The U-turn decision was made in favor of the childs health as the cabin crew evaluated that the kid could not endure five more hours to Tokyo, according to chief flight attendant Doan Thi Kim Tho.

After the Vietnam Airlines aircraft entered the apron at Noi Bai at 9:20 am the same day, an emergency medical team, staff of the airline, and the companions of the child took the young passenger to Vinmec Hospital.

The child has returned to a stable health condition and was staying in the hospital for further monitoring as of Tuesday morning, according to Vietnam Airlines.

Flight VN 384 resumed its journey to Tokyo at 11:00 am Monday.

Despite the three-hour delay, all other passengers showed their support for the cabin crew's response, according to Vietnam Airlines.

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The Ministry of Health recently requested local authorities to correct medical facilities that advertised the treatment of homosexuality, bisexuality, and transsexuality.

In a document sent to health departments of provinces and cities last week, the Ministry of Health said it had received information that some medical facilities and doctors claimed to be able to cure homosexuality.

The health ministry quoted the American Psychiatric Association and World Health Organization as affirming that homosexuality is not a disease, thus it cannot be cured, does not need to be cured, and cannot be changed.

On May 17, 1990, WHO officially removed homosexuality from the list of mental illnesses.

Homosexuality has been neither considered a disease nor included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) since 1994.

WHO defines homosexuality as a sexual orientation in which people are attracted to other people of the same sex, stressing that it is not a disease.

Homosexuality and transsexuality were removed by WHO from the list of mental and behavioral disorders in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) in 1990 and 2019, respectively.

Therefore, the Ministry of Health requested the leaders of units to direct medical examination and treatment facilities under their management to conduct necessary awareness campaigns so that doctors, medical staff, and residents properly understand homosexuality, bisexuality, and transsexuality.

Healthcare facilities must provide medical examination and treatment for homosexual, bisexual, and transgender people with equality and respect, and must not discriminate against these individuals.

Medical facilities must not consider homosexuality, bisexuality, transsexuality as a disease or provide any methods to intervene or treat these people because of their sexual orientation.

Experts with knowledge of gender identity may offer psychological support for these individuals if necessary.

The health ministry asked relevant agencies to conduct regular inspection of medical facilities to make sure that they provide medical examination and treatment in accordance with the provisions of the law.

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Thousands of apartments and land lots for the resettlement of residents in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have been left deserted for years, causing huge waste.

While many laborers are in dire need of accommodations, solutions to these abandoned resettlement apartments and the resettlement in the future to prevent similar cases are needed.

Abandonment and untidiness

According to the Hanoi Department of Construction, the capital city is now home to nearly 18,000 resettlement apartments.

Most of them have been sold and allocated for projects. Only over 400 units remain unused.

However, in reality, thousands of these apartments are presently empty.

Some projects with hundreds of apartments each are complete but their wastewater treatment and fire prevention and control systems have yet to be approved.

Most of these projects are now degrading and facing a shortage of facilities, such as playgrounds for children, sport facilities, and parks.

More than 3,700 resettlement apartments in Thu Duc City under Ho Chi Minh City are going to be converted into commercial apartments to recover capital and offer more accommodations to local residents. Photo: Tu Trung / Tuoi Tre

As a case in point, despite breaking ground over 10 years ago, the N01-D17 resettlement apartment project at the intersection of Tran Thai Tong and Duy Tan Streets in Dich Vong Hau Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi is overgrown with weeds, while its front is still surrounded with corrugated iron sheets.

Apartments there were planned to be allocated to households whose land was taken back for the Nguyen Van Huyen Street extension project.

The resettlement project was designed to include four 15-story buildings with each apartment measuring 50 to nearly 90 square meters in area.

Le Van Bich, 62, living on Duy Tan Street in Dich Vong Hau Ward, said since the project has been left unused for many years, surrounding residents sometimes dumpe waste at the site.

The N3-N4-N5 resettlement apartment project in the Sai Dong New Urban Area in Long Bien Districts Phuc Dong Ward faces the same fate.

Three blocks with over 150 apartments have been deserted for many years.

Local residents made use of the land at the back of the project to grow vegetables.

Meanwhile, many other parts of the site have deteriorated seriously.

The land at the back was overgrown with weeds so we tidied it and grew vegetables now," said Nguyen Thi Hang, a 42-year-old resident in the Sai Dong New Urban Area.

We expect the city to put the project into operation so that we will not have to watch over strangers who often gather there late at night."

Another project, situated on Tran Phu Street in Hoang Mai District, which is a prime site, has also lain dormant for many years.

The project with three resettlement apartment buildings already became a destination for drug addicts.

Several hundreds of meters from this site, two resettlement projects on Khuyen Luong Street and another with more than 10 floors in alley No. 156 of Tam Trinh Street in Yen So Ward, Hoang Mai District have not welcomed residents for many years.

Auctions remain on paper

A representative of the Hanoi Department of Construction said residents had not moved into resettlement apartments as some had filed complaints, while others decided to receive money rather than a flat.

In some projects, the Hanoi Peoples Committee has yet to issue decisions to sell resettlement apartments.

We will continue urging investors to put projects into operation soon," the official added.

As for over 200 apartments involved in violations, the municipal Department of Construction will coordinate with Hanoi Housing Management and Development Co. Ltd. and the authorities of districts to take back the land used for improper purposes and handle such violations.

Similarly, in Ho Chi Minh City, there are also thousands of abandoned resettlement apartments.

For example, many blocks in the Vinh Loc B relocation area in Binh Chanh District are currently degraded.

According to statistics from the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction, the city now has nearly 11,700 resettlement apartments and land lots.

Of the total, some 4,000 apartments and land lots are allocated to districts, over 2,500 others are for backup, while procedures to put nearly 5,000 apartments and land lots up for auction are in process.

Pham Dang Ho, head of the Housing and Real Estate Market Development Division under the municipal Department of Construction, said most of the resettlement apartments and land lots in the city put up for auction are in suburban areas, which does not meet the demand of dwellers.

Some apartments were built a long time ago, while certain resettlement projects have a small number of units with scattered locations, so it is hard to designate these apartments for residents affected by the same project.

However, the jurisdiction over the auction of resettlement apartments remains unclear.

Earlier, the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Council issued a resolution empowering the chairperson of the municipal Peoples Committee to take charge of the auction of houses as regulated in Government Decree 167 on the rearrangement and handling of public assets.

Individuals and organizations with the jurisdiction to auction resettlement apartments remain unknown. Therefore, the municipal Peoples Committee will report the issue to the Peoples Council so that the latter can work out solutions.

Regarding the proposal to convert resettlement apartments into social housing, Ho said if relocated households have no accommodations and do not have enough money to buy such units, they will be allowed to purchase or lease social apartments, under the prevailing regulations.

The conversion of resettlement apartments into affordable housing is in line with the law, Ho added.

However, the price of low-cost houses does not include land use fees.

Meanwhile, resettlement apartments may be funded by the state budget, or converted from commercial flats developed by private firms and affordable units built by state or private companies.

If their sale price does not include land use fees, the capital sourced from the citys budget cannot be sufficiently recouped.

A narrow rented room in District 8, Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: T.Trung / Tuoi Tre

As a result, it is more reasonable to auction resettlement apartments to fund other resettlement or social housing projects.

Reviewing resettlement apartment projects

In May this year, the Ministry of Construction wrote to the Peoples Committees of cities and provinces, asking them to report resettlement apartment projects within their precincts, the number of resettlement apartments which have been developed, and the allocation and management of such units.

In addition, these localities were requested to report the number of unused resettlement apartments and those which were proposed to be converted into affordable or commercial houses and other purposes.

They should also clarify difficulties and obstacles in the management and use of resettlement apartments and put forward solutions.

Proposals

Regarding a plan to develop land banks for resettlement apartment projects in the future, Pham Dang Ho from the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Construction said the state should build low-cost houses to meet the demand of households that are affected by projects but cannot afford new accommodations.

Those who can afford new houses will be offered compensation so that they can take the initiative to stabilize their lives.

The state can also reduce the use of the budget for resettlement housing projects.

If the land fund is exhausted, the state can acquire land lots from investors.

Meanwhile, many experts said that besides apartments which will be put up for auction and those whose use purposes will be converted, backup houses should be leased to generate revenue.

Dr. Dao Ngoc Nghiem, vice-chairman of the Vietnam Urban Planning and Development Association, said infrastructure development plans must include resettlement projects.

However, resettlement apartments should be better than residents previous houses.

Moreover, the technical and social infrastructure of resettlement projects must also be a part of development. In many projects, there are no playgrounds and kindergartens.

According to Nghiem, abandoned apartments should be leased for a short term to earn revenue.

Lease contracts should include the term that these apartments will be returned if required. Unused apartments can be sold to the needy as housing remains an urgent demand of many people, Nghiem suggested.

Meanwhile, former Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Dang Hung Vo said many resettlement apartments were of poor quality and deteriorated quickly, so many would-be residents refused to move in.

These apartments are also ineligible to be converted into commercial housing.

To deal with the abandonment of resettlement apartments, they should be leased to prevent wastefulness.

However, the leasing must be appropriate to prevent disputes and lawsuits.

Unused resettlement apartments should be converted into budget houses due to the current severe shortage of affordable units.

In the long term, resettlement flats must be improved to instill confidence in residents.

Resettlement and low-priced houses can be merged into a segment," Vo noted.

The deserted N01-D17 resettlement apartment project in Dich Vong Hau Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi. Photo: Q.The / Tuoi Tre

However, it is not advised to focus on reducing the quality of projects to lower their prices."

According to Dr. Dao Ngoc Nghiem, many projects in Hanoi which are 80-90 percent complete have been suspended due to the shortage of capital, while some others have been finished but their fire prevention and control and wastewater treatment systems have yet to be approved.

Therefore, these projects should be completed before being sold, leased or converted into social houses.

Most resettlement projects are developed in prime sites.

The acceleration of the execution of these projects will meet the housing demand, ensure the urban landscapes, properly use land resources, and avoid the wastefulness of the state capital poured into such projects.

Nghiem added that planners and architects had yet to come up with feasible resettlement models to meet diversified demands.

Residents will not agree to move to suburban districts if their land is in inner areas, resulting in the abandonment of resettlement apartments.

It was proposed that new urban areas should include resettlement and social apartments, but enterprises have opposed the proposition.

Resettlement projects are not only accommodations but also a foundation for urban development and economic restructuring.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Anh, deputy head of the Law Faculty of the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh Citys College of Economics, Law, and Government, attributed the abandonment of resettlement apartments to the states and investors failure to survey the opinions and demands of residents whose land will be taken back.

They just tell displaced residents of the tentative relocation plans.

The resettlement is done in a top-down manner, when it should be bottom-up

Policymakers should listen to the opinions and demands of residents so that they can secure consensus on their decisions.

Therefore, surveys are needed to know residents expectations about resettlement apartments and living conditions, incomes, family members, jobs, and their expected resettlement forms. If so, resettlement policies will match residents demands.

Ensuring livelihood for residents whose land is reclaimed

At a recent conference to make comments on special policies for Ho Chi Minh City, economist Phan Chanh Duong, former deputy general director of Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone Joint Venture Company, retold a story about the compensation and relocation of residents to develop the export processing zone.

Policymakers can learn from the story to set out the compensation and change the arrangement and allocation of resettlement areas for residents affected by projects.

Duong related that while developing the export processing zone, the land in low-lying areas was transferred at VND6,000 (US$0.26) per square meter, while the price was VND12,000 ($0.51) per square meter if the land was leveled and in higher locations.

At the time, if the export processing zone was successful, the land price might increase 10 times.

Meanwhile, poor residents without appropriate compensation would find it hard to stabilize their lives.

Therefore, the city decided to give households without land use right certificates VND11,500 ($0.49) per square meter in compensation and those with land use right certificates VND13,000 ($0.56) per square meter.

As the compensation was double the land selling price, residents accepted and used it to buy other land lots.

On the other hand, the project management board also had a plan to build the Tan My resettlement area adjacent to the Phu My Hung New Urban Area.

According to the board, once Nguyen Van Linh Boulevard and the urban area were developed, the entire region would turn itself from a marsh into a spacious and modern urban landscape.

Residents could see and benefit from the states infrastructure development.

Duong said while conducting the Tan Thuan Export Processing Zone project, he understood that land was the production and living foundation of the local people.

It is probably not good for residents who have gotten used to living in land-attached makeshift houses if we send them to spacious apartments," he said.

"They may file lawsuits.

They have lived on land for generations and the land has become an indispensable part of their lives.

Therefore, when developing the South Saigon area, Duong did not plan to compensate once but came up with an idea to establish a joint stock company which land owners could contribute to and earn profit from all their life.

However, the idea was not given the green light.

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The investigation into a British girls accusation that two Vietnamese male artists sexually assaulted her in Spain is still ongoing even though the two men already returned home, the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs told reporters on Monday.

A local court in Spain returned the passports to the two Vietnamese artists on August 3 after they successfully hired local lawyers to keep contact with the court on their behalf, according to the ministry.

These two citizens already left Spain, an official of the ministry said.

The investigation of the case is still ongoing.

Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Ta Quang Dong confirmed on Monday morning that the two artists arrived in Vietnam.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs added that the Vietnamese Embassy in Spain is continually monitoring the case and is in contact with local authorities and the two Vietnamese nationals.

The embassy also implemented necessary consular measures to protect the legitimate rights and interests of the Vietnamese citizens.

The two, a musician and an actor, were arrested on June 25 after a 17-year-old British girl reported an alleged rape at a hotel in Sant Elm, Majorca, according to Majorca Daily Bulletin.

She had met the men at a restaurant on June 24.

They went to the beach, where she said they began to get intimate, and then came to one of the mens hotel room.

She told the Spanish national police force Guardia Civil that they forced her to have sex, after which they made her shower in order to eliminate any traces of bodily fluids.

Having made the report to the Guardia Civil, she and her family left Mallorca.

When they appeared in court, the two Vietnamese refused to testify as per their rights.

The court released them without bail but it withdrew their passports.

While the mens identity and occupations were not revealed by the Majorca authorities, local reports said they were an actor and a musician aged 37 and 42.

Following the spread of the incident, famed musician Ho Hoai Anh, born in 1979, and popular actor Hong Dang, born in 1984, have made front-page news in Vietnam as a video of the duo enjoying a trip in Majorca uploaded on June 24 cast suspicion on their relation to the rape case.

Both Anh and Dang earned several prestigious awards and were active in their fields before the incident.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
A man from Hai Duong Province, northern Vietnam was given a nine-month flight ban after he failed to pay a fine for smoking on a plane in late June.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) imposed a nine-month flight ban on 23-year-old Duong Van Thanh from Nam Sach District, Hai Duong Province.

The ban is effective from August 10, 2022 to May 9, 2023.

Thanh previously boarded flight VJ 134 from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi on June 29.

He smoked a cigarette on the airplane even though the flight attendant informed that smoking was not allowed on the flight.

After the plane landed, the flight crew handed Thanh over to the airport security unit, which later transferred the case to the Northern Airports Authority.

On June 30, the Northern Airports Authority imposed a fine upon the passenger for his violation.

Despite reminders from relevant authorities, Thanh did not comply with the decision and failed to pay the fine before the due date.

The CAAV thus decided to impose the nine-month flight ban on Thanh and asked domestic and foreign airlines not to provide their services to the man during the ban.

Airports are responsible for directing their units and departments to closely check documents and IDs of passengers.

Government Decree No. 162 promulgates that smoking cigarettes and electronic cigarettes on a plan is punishable by a fine worth VND3-5 million (US$128-213).

Before departure, flight attendants always remind passengers not to smoke on board.

Cases of smoking on a plane are booked by the flight crew and transferred to the airport authority for further handling.

If violators fail to pay the fine, they will be temporarily banned from flying in accordance with regulations.

Last month, a 72-year-old man from northern Ha Nam Province was handed a nine-month flight ban for failure to pay a similar fine.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
ReportLinker

Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market Research Report by Hemodialysis Products (Center-Use Hemodialysis Machines, Hemodialysis Consumables & Supplies, and Hemodialysis Machines), Flux Type, Modality, Type, Disease Indication, Dialysis Site, Region (Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa) - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19

New York, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market Research Report by Hemodialysis Products, Flux Type, Modality, Type, Disease Indication, Dialysis Site, Region - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06303607/?utm_source=GNW



The Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market size was estimated at USD 92.43 million in 2021 and expected to reach USD 101.29 million in 2022, and is projected to grow at a CAGR 9.84% to reach USD 162.36 million by 2027.



Market Statistics:

The report provides market sizing and forecast across 7 major currencies - USD, EUR, JPY, GBP, AUD, CAD, and CHF. It helps organization leaders make better decisions when currency exchange data is readily available. In this report, the years 2019 and 2020 are considered historical years, 2021 as the base year, 2022 as the estimated year, and years from 2023 to 2027 are considered the forecast period.



Market Segmentation & Coverage:

This research report categorizes the Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis to forecast the revenues and analyze the trends in each of the following sub-markets:



Based on Hemodialysis Products, the market was studied across Center-Use Hemodialysis Machines, Hemodialysis Consumables & Supplies, Hemodialysis Machines, and Home-Use Hemodialysis Machines.



Based on Flux Type, the market was studied across Acidic Concentrates, Alkaline Concentrates, Arteriovenous Grafts, AV fistula needle & bags, AV Fistula Needles, Bicarbonate Cartridges, Bloodlines Sets and tubes, Central Venous Catheters, Endotoxin Filters, Hemodialysis Access Products, Hemodialysis Concentrates/Dialysates, Hemodialysis Services, High-Flux Dialyzers, Home Hemodialysis (HHD) Services, In-Center Hemodialysis Services, and low Flux Dialyzers.



Based on Modality, the market was studied across Conventional Hemodialysis, Nocturnal Hemodialysis (NHD), and Short Daily Hemodialysis.



Based on Type, the market was studied across Accessories, Central Water Disinfectant Systems, Chemical Disinfectant Systems, and Heat Disinfectant Systems.



Based on Disease Indication, the market was studied across Acute Kidney Infections, ESRD, Multi-Organ Failure, and Septic Shock.



Based on Dialysis Site, the market was studied across Clinics & Dialysis Centers, Home Dialysis, Home Hemodialysis, Home Peritoneal Dialysis, and Hospitals.



Based on Region, the market was studied across Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa. The Americas is further studied across Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and United States. The United States is further studied across California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The Asia-Pacific is further studied across Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. The Europe, Middle East & Africa is further studied across France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom.



Cumulative Impact of COVID-19:

COVID-19 is an incomparable global public health emergency that has affected almost every industry, and the long-term effects are projected to impact the industry growth during the forecast period. Our ongoing research amplifies our research framework to ensure the inclusion of underlying COVID-19 issues and potential paths forward. The report delivers insights on COVID-19 considering the changes in consumer behavior and demand, purchasing patterns, re-routing of the supply chain, dynamics of current market forces, and the significant interventions of governments. The updated study provides insights, analysis, estimations, and forecasts, considering the COVID-19 impact on the market.



Cumulative Impact of 2022 Russia Ukraine Conflict:

We continuously monitor and update reports on political and economic uncertainty due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Negative impacts are significantly foreseen globally, especially across Eastern Europe, European Union, Eastern & Central Asia, and the United States. This contention has severely affected lives and livelihoods and represents far-reaching disruptions in trade dynamics. The potential effects of ongoing war and uncertainty in Eastern Europe are expected to have an adverse impact on the world economy, with especially long-term harsh effects on Russia.This report uncovers the impact of demand & supply, pricing variants, strategic uptake of vendors, and recommendations for Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis market considering the current update on the conflict and its global response.



Competitive Strategic Window:

The Competitive Strategic Window analyses the competitive landscape in terms of markets, applications, and geographies to help the vendor define an alignment or fit between their capabilities and opportunities for future growth prospects. It describes the optimal or favorable fit for the vendors to adopt successive merger and acquisition strategies, geography expansion, research & development, and new product introduction strategies to execute further business expansion and growth during a forecast period.



FPNV Positioning Matrix:

The FPNV Positioning Matrix evaluates and categorizes the vendors in the Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market based on Business Strategy (Business Growth, Industry Coverage, Financial Viability, and Channel Support) and Product Satisfaction (Value for Money, Ease of Use, Product Features, and Customer Support) that aids businesses in better decision making and understanding the competitive landscape.



Market Share Analysis:

The Market Share Analysis offers the analysis of vendors considering their contribution to the overall market. It provides the idea of its revenue generation into the overall market compared to other vendors in the space. It provides insights into how vendors are performing in terms of revenue generation and customer base compared to others. Knowing market share offers an idea of the size and competitiveness of the vendors for the base year. It reveals the market characteristics in terms of accumulation, fragmentation, dominance, and amalgamation traits.



Competitive Scenario:

The Competitive Scenario provides an outlook analysis of the various business growth strategies adopted by the vendors. The news covered in this section deliver valuable thoughts at the different stage while keeping up-to-date with the business and engage stakeholders in the economic debate. The competitive scenario represents press releases or news of the companies categorized into Merger & Acquisition, Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership, New Product Launch & Enhancement, Investment & Funding, and Award, Recognition, & Expansion. All the news collected help vendor to understand the gaps in the marketplace and competitors strength and weakness thereby, providing insights to enhance product and service.



Company Usability Profiles:

The report profoundly explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market, including Allmed Medical Products Co., Ltd., AngioDynamics, Inc., Asahi Kasei Corporation, Atlantic Biomedical Pvt. Ltd., B. Braun Melsungen AG, Baxter International Inc., Becton, Dickinson and Company, Cantel Medical Corporation, DaVita Inc., Dialife SA, Diaverum AB, Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA, Isopure Corp., JMS Co., Ltd., Medical Components, Inc., Medtronic plc, Nikkiso Co., Ltd., Nipro Corporation, Rockwell Medical Inc., and Toray Medical Co., Ltd..



The report provides insights on the following pointers:

1. Market Penetration: Provides comprehensive information on the market offered by the key players

2. Market Development: Provides in-depth information about lucrative emerging markets and analyze penetration across mature segments of the markets

3. Market Diversification: Provides detailed information about new product launches, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments

4. Competitive Assessment & Intelligence: Provides an exhaustive assessment of market shares, strategies, products, certification, regulatory approvals, patent landscape, and manufacturing capabilities of the leading players

5. Product Development & Innovation: Provides intelligent insights on future technologies, R&D activities, and breakthrough product developments



The report answers questions such as:

1. What is the market size and forecast of the Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market?

6. What is the market share of the leading vendors in the Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market?

7. What modes and strategic moves are considered suitable for entering the Global Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis Market?

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06303607/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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CONTACT: Clare: clare@reportlinker.com US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001




Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the near future. Bernd von Jutrczenka/Getty Images

OPEC leaders Saudi Arabia and the UAE agreed to "significantly increase" oil output if needed.

The countries pledged to pump more oil specifically if the world faces a supply crunch this winter.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other OPEC countries possess as much as 2.7 million bpd of spare capacity.

OPEC leaders Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates vowed to deliver a "significant increase" in oil output should the world face a supply crunch this winter, sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The two countries could deliver "significantly more," sources added, but only if the supply crisis worsened in the coming months.

"With possibly no gas in Europe this winter, with a potential price cap on Russian oil sales in the New Year, we can't be throwing every barrel on the market at the moment," a sources told the outlet.

In July, sources told the Wall Street Journal that Saudi Arabia is close to maxing out its oil production capacity as it is already near its limit. The issues stem from maintenance needs, production slowdowns at some fields, and issues with pressure levels.

But the recent announcement reverses those issues after sources told Reuters that Saudi Arabia, the UAE and other OPEC members hold as much as 2.7 million barrels per day of spare production capacity.

"The only time we can prove we have more spare capacity is when it comes to a long-lasting crisis," sources said.

Saudi Arabia is OPEC's biggest producer, with roughly 10.6 million barrels per day of production in July, according to data from the group, while the UAE is the third-largest after Iraq, with production of around 3.1 million barrels per day.

A global energy crisis kicked off by Russia's war with Ukraine which has subsequently squeezed supply has left countries worried about their winter supply. Europe in particular has been fearful that Russia will completely cut off gas supply to the region in response to Western sanctions.

Germany specifically is hurting from the effects of the energy crisis causing leaders to draw up emergency plans to save up on gas before the colder months hit.

Story continues

In response to a tight oil market, OPEC+ announced in its latest meeting it would increase daily output by 100,000 barrels per day in September causing oil prices to move upwards above $100,45 a barrel on Wednesday.

At the time of writing, benchmark Brent crude futures were down 1.4% at $95.38 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude was down 1%, below $90 a barrel for the first time since late February.

Read the original article on Business Insider
File picture of a swimmer at North Met Lake (Barney Davis)

The body of a missing 14-year-old boy has been pulled out of a lake at a north London beauty spot.

Police rushed to North Met Lake, off Cadmore Lane, Cheshunt after reports that a teenager had got into difficulty in the water at just before 5pm on Monday.

Witnesses said the boy went into the lake but failed to come back to the surface.

Despite a frantic search using a helicopter and specialist police divers, tragically, his body was recovered six hours later.

A Hertfordshire Police spokesman said: Emergency Services carried out searches of the area, including the use of the police helicopter and specialist police divers.

At just before 11pm last night a body was recovered.

Formal identification is yet to take place, however the boys next of kin have been informed.
China said on Monday it was extending threatening military exercises surrounding Taiwan that have disrupted shipping and air traffic and substantially raised concerns about the potential for conflict in the region.

The exercises would include anti-submarine drills, apparently targeting US support for Taiwan in the event of a potential Chinese invasion, according to social media posts from the eastern leadership of China's ruling Communist Party's military arm, the People's Liberation Army.

The military has said the exercises involving missile strikes, warplanes and ship movements crossing the midline of the Taiwan Strait dividing the sides were a response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the self-ruled island last week.

China has ignored calls to calm the tensions, and there was no immediate indication when it would end what amounts to a blockade.

Taiwan's defence ministry said on Sunday it detected a total of 66 aircraft and 14 warships conducting the naval and air exercises.

The island has responded by putting its military on alert and deploying ships, planes and other assets to monitor Chinese aircraft, ships and drones that are "simulating attacks on the island of Taiwan and our ships at sea".

Meanwhile, Taiwan's official Central News Agency reported that Taiwan's army will conduct live-fire artillery drills in southern Pingtung County on Tuesday and Thursday, in response to the Chinese exercises.

Chinese fighter jets taking part in exercises on Sunday (AP)

The drills will include snipers, combat vehicles, armored vehicles as well as attack helicopters, said the report, which cited an anonymous source.

China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has threatened to annex it by force if necessary. The two sides split in 1949 after a civil war, but Beijing considers visits to Taiwan by foreign officials as recognizing its sovereignty.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has called on the international community to "support democratic Taiwan" and "halt any escalation of the regional security situation." The Group of Seven industrialised nations has also criticised China's actions, prompting Beijing to cancel a meeting between Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Japanese counterpart, Yoshimasa Hayashi.

Story continues

China has cut off defence and climate talks with the US and imposed sanctions on Ms Pelosi in retaliation for her visit.

The Biden administration and Pelosi say the US remains committed to the "one-China" policy that extends formal diplomatic recognition to Beijing while allowing robust informal relations and defence ties with Taipei.

The US however criticised Beijing's actions in the Taiwan Strait, with White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre calling them "fundamentally irresponsible".

On a visit to Myanmar, whose Chinese-backed military government has been accused of murdering its opponents, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Washington was "taking the opportunity to build up its military deployment in the region, which deserves high vigilance and resolute boycott from all sides".

Meanwhile, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong called for a cooling of tensions. "Australia continues to urge restraint, Australia continues to urge de-escalation, and this is not something that solely Australia is calling for, and the whole region is concerned about the current situation, the whole region is calling for stability to be restored," she said.
(Getty Images)

The FBI raid on Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate has reignited talk of a supposed deep state within the US government.

While the former presidents son, Eric Trump, acknowledged the raid was part of an investigation into Trumps removal of presidential records from the White House, leading Republicans and right-wing commentators have turned to the Deep State conspiracy theory.

They believe there is a secret network, or a shadow government, that is out to get Trump and his allies, and the former president has long-blamed this supposed group for his shortcomings or missteps.

But what is the Deep State and what has Donald Trump said about the conspiracy theory?

What are Trumps supporters saying about the Deep State?

Donald Trumps supporters have been blaming the deep state for the Mar-a-Lago raid.

Former leader of the Brexit party Nigel Farage said: Shocked to wake up and hear about the raid on Trumps Mar-a-Lago home. The deep state truly does exist.

Shocked to wake up and hear about the raid on Trump's Mar-a-Lago home. The deep state truly does exist.  Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) August 9, 2022

Conservative activist Tom Fitton said: The unprecedented, reckless and wildly abusive FBI raid on Trumps home shows the Biden administration is hurtling towards despotism.

This raid is part of the worst political scandal in American history -- the Obama-Biden Deep State abuse of President Trump. Pray for America!

The unprecedented, reckless and wildly abusive FBI raid on Trump's home shows the Biden administration is hurtling towards despotism. This raid is part of the worst political scandal in the American history -- the Obama-Biden Deep State abuse of President Trump. Pray for America!  Tom Fitton (@TomFitton) August 8, 2022

Republican politician Lauren Boebert said: Everyone saying a judge signed off on the FBIs search warrant clearly wont admit that the entire Deep State hates President Trump and would sign off on ANYTHING to hurt him.

Story continues

Everyone saying a judge signed off on the FBIs search warrant clearly wont admit that the entire Deep State hates President Trump and would sign off on ANYTHING to hurt him.  Lauren Boebert (@laurenboebert) August 9, 2022

What is the Deep State?

The deep state generally refers to a conspiracy theory about a network of people within the government that work as a hidden, or shadow, government.

They supposedly work independently of the political leadership to achieve their own goals and work against those that counter their beliefs.

The term deep state has often been used in Turkish politics under dictator President Tayyip ErdoAan.

Duke professor Timur Kuran, who studied the Turkish deep state, told Rolling Stone: It involves vested interests that are coordinated by a powerful agent and that obey a hierarchy.

In many autocracies, the dictator often blames failures on a deep state ostensibly commanded by an enemy of the legitimate state.

In the US, Trump and some Republicans have used the deep state theory to explain away their legal troubles and wrongdoings.

For example, George Papadopoulos, Trumps adviser during his presidential campaign who pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI, published a book titled Deep State Target: How I Got Caught in the Crosshairs of the Plot to Bring Down President Trump, in 2019.

Although deep state has been used by some Republicans to avoid taking responsibility for their failings, David Rohde, an editor at the New Yorker and the author of In Deep: The FBI, the CIA, and the Truth About Americas Deep State, says it does point to something real.

(Getty Images)

Speaking to Vox, Rhode said that a California Berkeley professor named Peter Dale Scott used the term in his 2007 to describe the military-industrial complex.

Rhode said: Scott wrote about a sense that the military and defence contractors had driven the country repeatedly into wars and maybe helped fuel 9/11 and the wars that followed.

For Scott, it also applied to large financial interests, like Wall Street banks.

However, he said that the term has since been co-opted and vulgarised into what it is today, which is a shorthand for a conspiracy against Donald Trump.

Here in the UK, outgoing prime minister Boris Johnson used the term deep state in July, when he denied that him leaving Downing Street would be the end of Brexit.

He claimed that some people believe Labour and deep state will prevail in its plot to haul us back into alignment with the EU as a prelude to our eventual return.

Police direct traffic outside an entrance to former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate (AP)

What has Donald Trump said about the deep state?

Donald Trump shared the deep state conspiracy theory throughout his presidencybeginning with the FBIs Russia investigation into the 2016 election.

He accused the CIA and the Pentagon of being part of the deep state and repeatedly blamed his legal troubles on Barack Obama supporters who work within national security and law enforcement.

In a 2018 rally, Trump said: Unelected, deep state operatives who defy the voters, to push their own secret agendas, are truly a threat to democracy itself.

According to NPR, in a search of the term, "deep state" appeared only 64 times in TV transcripts in 2016 but shot up to nearly 2,300 mentions in 2017, and surged to nearly 5,000 hits in 2018, many of them on Fox News.

But the former president is continuing to talk about the deep state, even now.

At the Conservative Political Action Conference in Texas last week, the former president said that the president needs to prioritise removing rogue bureaucrats and cleaning out the deep state.

He said: Its time to clean house in Washington DC, and we did a lot of it but nobody knew that deep state was that deep.
Emmerdale's 50th anniversary special will take place in October (PA)

Emmerdale has revealed the return of three characters to the soap for its 50th anniversary special in October.

The celebration will take place over the whole month which will take in the past, present and future of Emmerdale with the help of some intriguing storylines and familiar faces.

Radio Times reports that Diane Sugden (played by Elizabeth Estensen), Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) and Tracy Metcalfe (Amy Walsh) will all be making their way back to the village on a "temporary basis".

At the moment, they are the only three characters confirmed to return, but according to Emmerdale actors Jeff Hordley and Katherine Dow-Blyton, there could be some more surprises in store.

News and Star: Three characters have been confirmed to return so far (PA)

Three characters have been confirmed to return so far (PA)

Speaking exclusively to Radio Times at the recent launch for the 50th anniversary, the pair were asked if there were any more returnees on the way, to which Dow-Blyton admitted: "Not to my knowledge, but we're not told much until the last minute because we're not to be trusted with any facts or storylines, so we're the last to know!"

Hordley also teased: "Sometimes it can even surprise us, so you never know what the producers have got up their sleeves..."

Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7.30pm on ITV if you wanted to be up to date with storylines ahead of the celebration month.
Millions of Kenyans have cast their votes to decide the country's next president.

Polls have now closed after a tightly-contested race pitting former prime minister Raila Odinga against current Deputy President William Ruto.

An hour before voting ended, the electoral commission announced that just over 12 million people had cast their vote.

From daybreak, long lines snaked through the streets of Kibera - one of the poorest areas of the country - with thousands waiting to choose their next leader.

A quarter of a million people live here on the outskirts of the capital, Nairobi, and feel the strain of a crippling cost of living crisis, which has seen food and fuel costs soar in recent months.

The state of the economy has been the key election issue with both of the leading candidates promising solutions. Mr Ruto has centred his campaign on building a "hustler nation" appealing to disenfranchised young voters. It is an enticing platform in a country where youth unemployment is high and nearly 40% of eligible voters are under 35.

But Kibera has long been a stronghold of Mr Odinga. He is running for the fifth time and his supporters are adamant he will win.

"We have been voting for a long time and we have not seen him to be president, but he will be our president now," says Caroline, among a throng trying to catch a glimpse of their chosen leader.

Nearly 200 miles away in the constituency of Turbo, Mr Ruto cast his ballot, confident of success.

"It is upon all of us to respect the choices of the people of Kenya as we have begun today in every part of the Republic of Kenya, and I look forward to a victorious day," he said.

As the largest economy in east Africa and a key security partner for western nations, these elections are seen as a critical test for African democracy.

Joining the thousands of international election monitors on the ground are former heads of state, emphasising just how important this moment is for the entire region.

Story continues

Speaking to Sky News, former Tanzanian president Jakaya Kikwete said he was hopeful the day would pass peacefully: "You can see for yourself," he said. "Things are calm. It's orderly. That's all the people of Kenya need."

As the day progressed, the initial enthusiasm we witnessed in the morning seemed to dissolve as voters trickled into polling stations.

In the lead up, many Kenyans told us they were concerned that violence witnessed in previous campaigns could be repeated. Some even packed their bags and planned to leave town until the outcome was clearer.

In 2008, more than a thousand people were killed and half a million displaced after a contested election. Subsequent elections in 2013 and 2017 also witnessed violence, albeit on a smaller scale.

Outside a quiet polling station in central Nairobi I met Kenyan author and analyst Nanjala Nyabola, who had just cast her vote.

"The thing to understand about election violence in Kenya is that it's not spontaneous," she said.

"It's systematic, coordinated, funded at the highest levels. So it's not so much the people that people should be worried about, it's the people that have power. It's this elite compact that will make the difference. It's how will whoever loses take that loss?"

As the lines weakened behind her, she went on to give her forecast.

"The candidate that is going to get the most votes in Kenya this time around is apathy," she said.

At 4pm, as the polling deadline neared, her prophecy rang true. Only 56% of 22.1 million registered voters had cast their ballots.
Zaporizhzhia Power station seen from across the River Dnipro - Paul Grover

Shelling near Europe's biggest nuclear power plant means the "risk is very high" of something going dangerously wrong, the head of Ukraine's state nuclear power firm has warned.

Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of shelling the site of the vast nuclear power station in recent days.

Energoatom's chief, Petro Kotin, said that last week's Russian shelling had damaged three lines that connect the plant to the Ukrainian grid and that Russia wanted to connect the facility to its grid.

He added some of the shelling landed near storage facilities for spent fuel, an area that has 174 containers of highly radioactive material, warning of the dangers of them being hit.

"This is... the most radioactive material in all the nuclear power plant. This would (mean) the distribution (of it) around this place and then we will have like a radiation cloud and then the weather will decide... which direction the cloud goes," he said.

"The risk is very high."

He added that it was vital Kyiv regains control of the Zaporizhzhia plant from the Russians in time for winter.

06:58 PM

That's all for today

Today's top stories included:

One person was killed and four people were injured in a series of blasts at an airfield near a Russian military airbase in western Crimea

Europe's biggest nuclear plant faces a 'very high' risk of shelling and must be retaken from the Russians

Russian pipeline monopoly Transneft blames sanctions for the halting of supplies to southern Europe

France banned Russians from entering a medieval fortress because of the war

Russia launches an Iranian satellite amid it will be used to spy on Ukraine

Story continues

06:53 PM

US approves $89m mine-clearing gear and training for Ukraine

The US State Department has approved $89 million worth of assistance for mine-clearing equipment and training for Ukraine.

It will help it equip 100 ordnance removal teams for a year, a State Department official said on Tuesday.

05:14 PM

Ukrainian forces imply they were not behind fatal Crimea blasts

Ukraine's defence ministry has implied its forces were not behind the explosions which killed one person near a Russian airbase in western Crimea this afternoon.

It said on Facebook that it "cannot establish the cause of the fire", and went on to mock Moscow over the blasts at the Saki airfield near Novofedorivka base.

"The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine cannot establish the cause of the fire, but once again reminds of the rules of fire safety and the prohibition of smoking in unspecified places," it said.

04:32 PM

At least one dead in Crimea blasts, head of peninsula says

One person has died following a series of explosions near a Russian military airbase in western Crimea, the head of the peninsula's administration Sergei Aksyonov has said.

The Moscow defence ministry said earlier the blasts were caused by the detonation of aviation ammunition on the territory of the Saki airfield near Novofedorovka airbase, and were not the result of any attack.

Russia annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

04:01 PM

Estonia joins countries backing Zelensky's calls to ban all Russian visitors

Estonia's Prime Minister Kaja Kallas has backed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's calls on Western countries to ban all Russian visitors.

Mr Zelensky told The Washington Post that Russians should "live in their own world until they change their philosophy".

A day after her Nordic neighbour Finland backed restrictions on Russian visitors, Ms Kallas tweeted: "Stop issuing tourist visas to Russians. Visiting Europe is a privilege, not a human right."

Last month, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgars Rinkevics said that EU countries should restrict issuing visas for Russians, with an exemption for humanitarian reasons.

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin has said "it's not right that at the same time as Russia is waging an aggressive, brutal war of aggression in Europe, Russians can live a normal life, travel in Europe, be tourists".

Estonia and Finland are expected to raise the visa issue at an EU foreign ministers' meeting soon, the BBC reports.

03:53 PM

Child and four others injured in Crimea blast - health authority says

A child was among five people who were injured in a series of explosions near a Russian military airbase in western Crimea, the head of the annexed peninsula's health department has said, according to TASS.

"Some 30 people were evacuated from nearby houses. People will be accommodated in hotels and sanatoriums and will be provided with meals. The airfield has been cordoned off," Oleg Kryuchkov, an aide to the Moscow-installed head of Crimea, added on his Telegram channel.

The Russian defense ministry earlier said no one was hurt and no damage was done to aircraft after several aviation bombs exploded on the territory of the Saki airfield near Novofedorovka.

03:28 PM

Ukraine 'have shown they can hit Crimea'

Phillips OBrien, professor of strategic studies at St Andrews University, suggests Ukrainan forces were behind the blast at a Russian military airbase in western Crimea.

He tweeted: What the Ukrainians are doing is extremely important. By showing they can hit Crimea, they will further stretch Russia defensive capabilities. The Russians are going to have to protect a huge area behind the front lines.

What the Ukrainians are doing is extremely important. By showing they can hit Crimea, they will further stretch Russia defensive capabilities. The Russians are going to have to protect a huge area behind the front lines https://t.co/XitrgmmBiU  Phillips P. OBrien (@PhillipsPOBrien) August 9, 2022

03:05 PM

Explosion at Russian military base in Crimea was not attack, defence ministry says

Aviation ammunition was the cause of the blast at a Russian military airbase in western Crimea, Moscow's defence ministry said, adding there were no casualties, the RIA Novosti news agency reported.

It said there had been no attack, and no military equipment had been damaged.

03:02 PM

'Our airport is on fire' - Crimean official

An airfield used by Russian naval aircraft in western Crimea is on fire, an official has said.

A blast has rocked an airdrome in Crimeas Saki district, Viktoria Kazmirova, deputy head of the local administration, told TASS news agency on Tuesday.

Our airport is on fire. All the windows have been shattered," she said.

The Saki military airdrome near Novofedorovka is used by the Russian defense ministry, including for naval aircraft.

The airdrome has a ground-based testing and training system NITKA, one of Russias two such simulators to drill the skills of takeoff and landing of ship-based aircraft, reported TASS.

02:52 PM

RT editor claims blasts in Crimea were sabotage

Margarita Simonyan, the influential editor-in-chief of the RT news channel, tweeted on Tuesday that the explosions were not caused by a Ukrainian airstrike but by sabotage.

  ,   ,  .    (@M_Simonyan) August 9, 2022

02:28 PM

Oil price jump after Russian flows to southern Europe halted

Russia's pipeline monopoly has blamed western sanctions for the suspension of its oil supplies to southern Europe.

Transneft announced it had halted shipments via the Druzhba route via Ukraine on August 4, leading to a $2 jump in Brent crude to trade near $98 per barrel.

It said Ukraine had suspended the Russian oil flows because Western sanctions prevented it from receiving transit fees from Moscow.

From March this year, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic have relied extensively on supplies of Russian Urals crude via the Druzhba pipeline and reduced their purchases of maritime crude.

02:18 PM

Russians shouldn't have been barred from entering medieval castle, French defence ministry says

Two Russians were barred entry to a French fortress and popular touristic site because its security guards had applied a ban on them entering military installations too rigidly, the defence ministry has said.

It confirmed Russian nationals were banned from entering military installations because of its invasion of Ukraine.

But said that the rule cannot be applied in the same way for strategic sites and ones open to the public such as Chateau de Vincennes.

The medieval castle on the edge of Paris is for the most part open to the public but is technically a military installation and covered by the ban as it houses part of the French armed forces' historical archives, to which access is restricted.

Applying the rule, security guards at the Chateau de Vincennes denied two Russian women access to the monument on July 28.

The ministry told AFP that the guards had in fact "indiscriminately applied a rule established in February concerning all military installations".

"This rule cannot be applied in the same way for strategic sites and for sites accessible to the public, such as museums," a spokesman said.

02:03 PM

Explosions and black smoke rising from Russian military base in Crimea

#BREAKING: There are reports that Russia's Saki Air Base in Novofedorivka, Crimea, has been hit by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.



Saki is a homebase of the 43rd Separate Naval Assault Aviation Regiment of the Black Sea Fleet (warplanes: Su-30SM, Su-24M, Su-24MP, Tu-134). pic.twitter.com/zPcilxjKmg  Status-6 (@Archer83Able) August 9, 2022

Several loud explosions and black smoke have been seen rising from the direction of a Russian military airbase in Crimea.

Witnesses claimed Russia's Saki Air Base in Novofedorivka in the west of peninsula had been hit by Ukrainian forces.

Videos shared on social media showed a plume of smoke in the area.

01:46 PM

Unitaid donates 220 breathing devices to save premature babies in Ukraine

Unitaid has donated 220 specialised breathing devices that can help save premature babies in frontline hospitals to Ukraine.

Herve Verhoosel, spokesman for the global health aid agency, said the stress of the war on pregnant women had led to an increase in the number of premature births, which had tripled in some areas.

The new bubble nasal continuous positive airway pressure (bCPAP) devices are now available in 25 facilities across Ukraine, Mr Verhoosel said.

Unitaid funds medical innovation programmes, mainly in poor countries, and is hosted by the World Health Organisation.

12:25 PM

Kaliningrad transit quotas for sanctioned goods reached

The Russian exclave of Kaliningrad has reached its quotas for goods it can import across Lithuania from mainland Russia or Belarus, the region's governor has said.

Moscow reacted with fury after Lithuania banned the land transit of goods such as concrete and steel to the Baltic territory after EU sanctions on them came into force.

Last month the bloc agreed to impose limits on the volume of sanctions being imported into mainland Russia or Belarus by land.

The quotas were based on average volumes over the last three years to prevent Kaliningrad being used to dodge sanctions.

Today Kaliningrad governor Anton Alikhanov said some quotas had already been reached, making it impossible, for instance, for Kaliningrad to import cement from Belarus - which used to account for around 200,000 tonnes a year.

Alikhanov estimated that the limits permit Russia to ship around 500,000 tonnes of sanctioned goods in total in both directions each year. Moscow says trade with its outlying territory should not be subject to limits.

12:17 PM

Fears of nuclear accident as at least three killed and 23 wounded by Russian shelling

At least three Ukrainian civilians were killed and 23 others were wounded by Russian shelling in the last 24 hours, the office of Ukraine's president has said.

The Russians were said to have fired over 120 rockets from Grad multiple rocket launchers at the southern town of Nikopol, which is across the Dnieper River from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant - the largest in Europe.

Dnipropetrovsk Gov. Valentyn Reznichenko said several apartment buildings and industrial facilities were damaged.

Ukraine and Russia accused each other in recent days of shelling the nuclear plant, which is the largest one in Europe, and increasing the risks of a nuclear accident.

12:11 PM

Oil deliveries to Hungary, Slovakia and Czech Rep halted 'due to sanctions'

The supply of Russian oil to three European countries through Ukraine has been halted as the transit payment cannot be processed due to sanctions, Russian firm Transneft has claimed.

"On August 4, the delivery of Russian oil via the territory of Ukraine was halted," the oil pipeline operator said in a statement, adding that this would affect deliveries to Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

12:05 PM

Putin's oligarchs 'laughing at Germany' as none declares their assets

Germany's sanction regime has become a laughing stock as it emerged not a single penalised Russian oligarch has declared their assets to the authorities.

Berlin has frozen some 4.28 billion in assets belonging to Russians since to Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Germany's sanctions law says those targeted by EU sanctions who fail to declare their assets immediately face a fine or up to a year in prison.

The economy ministry says the seized assets included 2.3 billion in deposits at German banks but no declarations have been received by "the Bundesbank or the Federal Office for Economy and Export Control," state secretary Udo Philipp said in a letter to the Left party legislator Christian Goerke.

Mr Goerke said: "The duty of transparency should be extended to people who do business with oligarchs, like notaries, brokers, used car dealers, art dealers and banks.

"It's not enough to put the names of oligarchs on sanctions lists.

"Putin's oligarchs are laughing like a drain while authorities are despairing of ever tracking down and freezing their assets."

11:45 AM

Russians barred from French fortress 'because of the war'

Two Russian women were refused access to the Chateau de Vincennes because of the war in Ukraine, officials have said.

The mediaeval fortress and popular French tourist attraction is on the edge of Paris has some 150,000 annual visitors.

On July 28, two Russian women were refused access.

"A guard at the metal detector asked to see my passport," said one of the women, 31, who works as a journalist and has been in France for five months, having left Russia "because of the war".

Official confirmed to AFP news agency that the French military barred their access due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Once the residence of French kings and among Europe's best-preserved monuments of its kind, the castle is for the most part open to the public, including for tours, concerts, theatre plays and other events.

It also houses part of the French armed forces' historical archives, to which access is restricted.

Each year some 150,000 people visit the chateau, paying 9.50 euros (8.03) per adult admission.

11:39 AM

Ukraine 'receives mine-resistant AVs from Turkey'

Ukraine has received a delivery of mine-resistant AVs from Turkey, it has been claimed.

The "Military Informant" Telegram channel said Kyiv sources have reported deliveries of the BMC Kirpi 4x4s from Turkey - which has acted as mediator between Ukraine and Russia.

"Similar MRAPs could be seen during joint Russian-Turkish patrols in Syria," the channel told its 445,151 subscribers.

"It is alleged that the Ukrainian army has already received 50 Turkish armored vehicles, and another 150 'dear friend' Erdogan (the Turkish president) will deliver in the near future."

11:26 AM

Moscow destroys 'more than 300 weapons in depot storing Himars and M777 howitzers'

Russia's defence ministry has claimed its forces have destroyed an ammunition depot near Uman in Ukraine storing US-made Himars missiles and M777 howitzers, the RIA Novosti news agency reported.

The ministry said in its daily briefing that it had destroyed more than 300 rockets in the strike.

Kyiv has hailed the arrival of the advanced, long-range Himars from the US as a possible gamechanger, while Moscow has accused the West of "dragging out" the conflict by arming Ukraine.

11:24 AM

MoD shares latest map on the Ukraine war

The illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is continuing.



The map below is the latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 09 August 2022



Find out more about the UK government's response: https://t.co/EeYFG0s7Nz



 #StandWithUkraine  pic.twitter.com/d1HQBiCIAv  Ministry of Defence  (@DefenceHQ) August 9, 2022

11:19 AM

More than 10.5m people have left Ukraine since the war

More than 10.5 million people have crossed border from Ukraine since Russia's invasion began, the United Nations Refugee agency UNHCR has said on its website.

The agency said in a statement last month that it has expanded "protection, housing and assistance programmes, especially to reach those living in the areas hardest hit by the war.

"The current focus is on preparations for the upcoming winter."

11:14 AM

Iran registers its first cryptocurrency order to import 8.25m worth of goods

Iran has registered its first official order to import 8.25m ($10m) worth of goods in cryptocurrency, which it is using to get around US-sanctions, according to the semi-official Tasnim agency.

Last month Iran's supreme leader offered his staunch support to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his country's war in Ukraine.

Today Alireza Peymanpak, an official from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, said: "This week, the first official import order registration worth 10 million dollars was successfully completed using cryptocurrency.

"By the end of September, the use of cryptocurrencies and smart contracts will be widely used in foreign trade with target countries."

In May, a study by blockchain analytics firm Elliptic found: "Iran has recognised that bitcoin mining represents an attractive opportunity for a sanctions-hit economy suffering from a shortage of hard cash, but with a surplus of oil and natural gas.

"The Iranian state is therefore effectively selling its energy reserves on the global markets, using the Bitcoin mining process to bypass trade embargoes.

"Iran-based miners are paid directly in Bitcoin, which can then be used to pay for imports - allowing sanctions on payments through Iranian financial institutions to be circumvented."

11:04 AM

Putin and Israeli president speak over dissolution of Jewish Agency's Russian arm

Vladimir Putin and Isaac Herzog discussed the Jewish Agency, which promotes emigration to Israel, over the phone today, the Kremlin said.

Russia has moved to dissolve the agency's Russian arm in a move seen as retaliation for Israel's criticism of its invasion of Ukraine.

10:56 AM

Russia launches Iranian satellite

Ukraine war: Russia launches Iranian satellite 'to spy on Ukraine' - ROSCOSMOS/via REUTERS

Ukraine war: Russia launches Iranian satellite 'to spy on Ukraine' - YURI KADOBNOV /AFP

Ukraine war: Russia launches Iranian satellite 'to spy on Ukraine' - ROSCOSMOS/via REUTERS

10:35 AM

Zelensky's call for ban on all Russians is irrational - Kremlin

The Kremlin has dismissed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's call for a travel ban on all Russians as irrational, saying that Europe would ultimately have to decide if it wanted to pay the bills for Mr Zelensky's "whims."

In an interview with The Washington Post, Mr Zelensky called on Western leaders to stop allowing Russians to travel to their countries as punishment for President Vladimir Putin's decision to send troops into Ukraine.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there was no chance Russians could be isolated from the rest of the world, and questioned if Europe should continue supporting Mr Zelensky.

"The irrationality of his thinking in this case is off the scale,"Mr Peskov said in a conference call with reporters.

"This can only be seen extremely negatively. Any attempt to isolate Russia or Russians is a process that has no prospects."

Sooner or later Europe will "start wondering whether Zelensky is doing everything right, and whether its citizens should pay for his whims," Mr Peskov added.

Mr Zelensky was quoted by the Post as saying that Russians should be forced to "live in their own world until they change their philosophy."

10:17 AM

'Getting desensitised to the war is a dangerous thing' - Lord Hague

Conservative peer and former party leader Lord Hague of Richmond has warned that "getting desensitised to the war is a dangerous thing".

He told Times Radio: "We're getting so used to 'oh there's a war going on over there' that when that happens, the Russians are firing from around that plant, to put explosives and mines there, potentially, a potential nuclear catastrophe in the view of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), it's not such big news any more is it?

"I mean it is on the news, but it's not dominating things, so this sort of - getting desensitised to the war is a dangerous thing, because it is the main thing happening and the threat to everybody's security and economic prosperity in the end."

09:51 AM

Two more grain ships leave Ukraine

Two more grain-carrying ships have left Ukraine's Chornomorsk port, Turkey's defence ministry said, as part of a deal to unblock Ukrainian sea exports, bringing the total to leave the country under a safe passage deal to 12.

The Ocean Lion left for South Korea, carrying 64,720 tonnes of corn, it said, while the Rahmi Yagci was carrying 5,300 tonnes of sunflower meal to Istanbul.

The United Nations and Turkey brokered the agreement last month after warnings that the halt in grain shipments caused by the conflict could lead to severe food shortages and even outbreaks of famine in parts of the world.

Four ships that left Ukraine on Sunday are anchored near Istanbul and will be inspected on Tuesday, the defence ministry statement said.

09:17 AM

Anti-aircraft defence around Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant will be 'beefed up'

Anti-aircraft defences around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant will be strengthened following days of reported shelling on the site, the RIA Novosti news agency quoted a Russian-installed separatist official as saying on Monday.

Yevgeny Balitsky, head of the Russian-backed administration in Ukraine's southern Zaporizhzhia region also said the nuclear station, Europe's largest, was working normally and damaged power lines have been restored.

Both Kyiv and Moscow have blamed each other for attacks on the power station, located in Russian-controlled territory, over recent days.

08:52 AM

Germany's economy to shed 220bn due to war - study

Germany's economy will lose more than 260 billion euros (220 billion) in added value by 2030 due to the Ukraine war and high energy prices, spelling negative effects for the labour market, according to a study by the Institute for Employment Research (IAB).

In comparison with expectations for a peaceful Europe, Germany's price-adjusted gross domestic product (GDP) will be 1.7pc lower next year and there will be about 240,000 fewer people in employment, said the study published on Tuesday.

The employment level is expected to stay at around this level until 2026, when expansive measures will gradually begin to outweigh the negative effects and lead to a plus of about 60,000 gainfully employed in 2030.

One of the big losers will be the hospitality industry, which was already hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic and is likely to feel the pinch of consumers' waning purchasing power.

Energy-intensive sectors, such as the chemical industry and metal production, are also especially likely to be affected.

If energy prices, which have so far shot up by 160pc, were to double again, Germany's 2023 economic output would be almost 4pc lower than it would have been without the war, according to the study. Under these assumptions, 660,000 fewer people would be employed after three years and still 60,000 fewer in 2030, it said.

08:31 AM

The war, in pictures

Ukraine war: Russia launches Iranian satellite 'to spy on Ukraine' - Evgeniy Maloletka /AP

Ukraine war: Russia launches Iranian satellite 'to spy on Ukraine' - Evgeniy Maloletka /AP

Ukraine war: Russia launches Iranian satellite 'to spy on Ukraine' - Anadolu Agency /Anadolu

08:09 AM

Heavy Russian shelling bombards front lines as fighting rages in Donbas

Heavy Russian shelling bombarded front line towns in Ukraine on Tuesday, with Ukrainian officials reporting intense fighting near the eastern city of Donetsk.

Officials said Russian troops were launching waves of attacks in a bid to seize control of the industrialised Donbas region.

"The situation in the region is tense - shelling is constant throughout the front line ... The enemy is also using air strikes a great deal," Donetsk regional governor Pavlo Kyrylenko told Ukrainian television.

"The enemy is having no success. Donetsk region is holding."

Around Kharkiv in the northeast, Ukrainian troops captured the town of Dovhenke from Russian occupiers and were advancing towards Izium, Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said in a video on YouTube.

"The situation is very interesting. Ukraine's forces are moving very successfully. Attempts by Russia to regain lost ground were not successful. Ukraine may end up encircling them," he said.

In the southeast, Ukrainian forces again targeted the key Antonovskyi bridge over the Dnipro river in an attempt to disrupt Russian supply lines.

Yuri Sobolevsky, deputy head of Kherson regional council ousted by Russian occupation forces, said on Telegram the bridge had been seriously damaged after "overnight actions".

07:45 AM

EU emergency gas plan can stabilise or even lower prices

The head of Germany's network regulator welcomed the European Union's gas emergency plan, which came into effect on Tuesday, in comments to the ZDF broadcaster.

"If all countries in Europe save gas, this can stabilise the price so to speak, maybe even reduce it, and contribute to making sure that there is enough gas supply for us to make it through the autumn and winter," Bundesnetzagentur President Klaus Mueller said.

The deal asks EU countries to reduce their gas demand, to attempt to fill gas storage and prepare for a possible full Russian cut-off. It also asks them to voluntarily cut gas use by 15% this winter and could make the cuts binding in a supply emergency, albeit with numerous opt-outs for some countries and industries.

07:20 AM

'Donetsk region is holding'

Ukraine has reported intense Russian shelling across the frontlines on Tuesday.

Heavy fighting was reported in frontline towns near the eastern city of Donetsk, where Ukrainian officials said Russian troops were launching waves of attacks as they try to seize control of the industrialised Donbas region.

"The situation in the region is tense - shelling is constant throughout the front line ... The enemy is also using air strikes a great deal," Donetsk regional Governor Pavlo Kyrylenko told Ukrainian television.

"The enemy is having no success. Donetsk region is holding."

Around Kharkiv in the northeast, Ukrainian troops captured the town of Dovhenke from Russian occupiers and were advancing towards Izium, Ukrainian Presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said in a video posted on YouTube.

06:45 AM

MoD's morning update

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 9 August 2022



Find out more about the UK government's response: https://t.co/uuTHPiYMFw



 #StandWithUkraine  pic.twitter.com/6PcEp9eX14  Ministry of Defence  (@DefenceHQ) August 9, 2022

06:44 AM

Russia unable to 'generate capable combat infantry'

The Ministry of Defence has said that Russia continued to focus efforts on reinforcing defences in southern Ukraine over the weekend.

"Despite the shift in effort, Russia has maintained attacks on Ukrainian positions in Donetsk oblast," it tweeted.

"Over the last 30 days, Russias assault towards the town of Bakhmut has been its most successful axis in the Donbas; however, Russia has only managed to advance about 10km during this time.

"In other Donbas sectors where Russia was attempting to break through, its forces have not gained more than 3km during this 30-day period; almost certainly significantly less than planned.

"Despite its continued heavy use of artillery in these areas, Russia has not been able to generate capable combat infantry in sufficient numbers to secure more substantial advances."

06:39 AM

Save gas, stabilise the price

The head of Germany's network regulator welcomed the European Union's gas emergency plan, which came into effect on Tuesday, in comments to the ZDF broadcaster.

"If all countries in Europe save gas, this can stabilise the price so to speak, maybe even reduce it, and contribute to making sure that there is enough gas supply for us to make it through the autumn and winter," Bundesnetzagentur President Klaus Mueller said.

The deal asks EU countries to reduce their gas demand, to attempt to fill gas storage and prepare for a possible full Russian cut-off.

It also asks them to voluntarily cut gas use by 15pc this winter and could make the cuts binding in a supply emergency, albeit with numerous opt-outs for some countries and industries.

06:00 AM

I was raped by a Russian soldier  he was the same age as my son

It is only when Viktoria Martsyniuk feels the soft, gloopy clay running through her fingers that she allows herself to think about what happened to her one awful night in March this year.

The invading Russian soldiers had gone on the hunt for women to rape. She was one of their victims.

I like sculpting because it helps keep me calm, she said. Its good to do things with my hands.

Before the war, if someone had told the 42-year-mother of two that she would one day be in therapy, she would have laughed. It is the kind of treatment people with lots of money do, she said, but thanks to the state of Ukraine they are paying for her to process the traumas that she endured when the Russian Army invaded her rural village near the city of Borodyanka, about 60 km outside Kyiv.

Read the full story by Danielle Sheridan here

Viktoria Martsyniuk, the victim of a brutal rape - Paul Grover

05:01 AM

Listen to our daily podcast live from Ukraine

04:31 AM

Zelensky calls for more sanctions amid threat of 'nuclear disaster'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for more sanctions against Russia after raising the threat of a nuclear disaster as strikes bombarded Europe's largest nuclear power plant last week.

Kyiv and Moscow have traded blame on the shelling of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear complex amid international alarm their battle for control of the plant could trigger catastrophe.

Speaking in his nightly video address on Monday, Mr Zelensky said the world "should not forget about Chernobyl" and remember the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is the biggest in Europe.

The Chernobyl power station in Soviet Ukraine was the site of the world's worst nuclear disaster in 1986.

"New sanctions are needed against the terrorist state and the entire Russian nuclear industry for creating the threat of a nuclear disaster," Mr Zelensky said.

"Russia will not pay attention to words and concerns. The Chornobyl disaster is an explosion in one reactor, the Zaporizhzhia NPP is six power units."

Russian serviceman patrols the territory of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant - AFP

03:47 AM

British technology found in Russian weapons used in Ukraine

British technology has been found in Russian weapons used against Ukraine, a new report has revealed.

Oscillators and crystals produced by Somerset-based Golledge Electronics have been built into Russian radars and missile systems.

The highly sophisticated components show that Moscows war machine is reliant on highly sophisticated Western technology, according to the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi).

Russia has lost so many cruise and ballistic missiles, electronic warfare equipment and specialist radios in Ukraine that the degradation in Russian military capability could be made permanent if appropriate policies are implemented, the report says.

Read the full story by Dominic Nicholls here

Russian troops undertake military exercises using Orlan-10 drones, which contain components from around the world - TASS

02:32 AM

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Stock photo of Facebook, Messenger, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat and Pinterest, social media app icons on a smart phone (PA) (PA Archive)

Mark Zuckerberg is rolling out some new features on WhatsApp that will make it easier for you to avoid your friends.

The new update will let you hide your last seen status from specific contacts, and leave a group without notifying other users.

The new security features are being rolled out this month.

Snapchat is launching a new supervision tool for parents to keep an eye on who their children are speaking with on the app.

Both the parent and child need to accept the Family Centre invite, which lets parents see the full contact list, but not the messages.

The UK heatwave is causing farms to struggle due to the tinderbox conditions and lack of water. Not only are they having to use stored winter provisions for their livestock but crops are struggling to grow.

Thats according to Martin Lines, a farmer in Cambridgeshire, who told Tech & Science Daily the struggles his farm is facing. To make matters worse, some farms are having produce turned away by supply chains because it didnt meet the standards for things like size, shape or weight.

US scientists examine the rare Oklahoma lightning jet bolt that touched the edge of space. The iOS 16 update thats annoying Apple users. Food packaging eco-labels: Oxford University scientists want consumers to know how their weekly shop affects the planet. Huge numbers of spider crabs have been appearing in shallow waters on popular beaches in Cornwall. Plus, why we dont have an innate ability to identify a babys cry of pain, and, if you have an exceptional sleeping ability we may have the job for you.

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'Texting between iPhone and Android is broken': Google puts Apple on blast for converting Android texts to green bubbles and 'blurry' compressed videos

Sundar Pichai, left, and Tim Cook. Getty/Insider Composite

Google took a jab at Apple over how it converts texts and media from Android users to iPhones.

Google is calling for Apple to adopt RCS, a new standard for converting media between devices.

Users have long bemoaned the green bubbles that come with texting between iPhones and Androids.

On Tuesday, Google took a blatant jab at Apple on its website over what it says is Apple's failure to improve the user experience of messaging between iPhone and Android devices.

Some users have long lamented the green message bubbles that come with cross-device messaging, as well as poor-quality compressed videos, the lack of read receipts, and other headaches.

Google blames Apple, as the company converts texts sent between iPhones and Androids into what's called SMS and MMS, both of which are decades-old methods of sending text-only messages from device to device.

Instead, Google says, Apple should use something called Rich Communication Services, which it says is the "modern industry standard" meant to improve how people can send not only texts but also media, such as emojis, videos, and photos.

"These problems exist because Apple refuses to adopt modern texting standards when people with iPhones and Android phones text each other," the Android website said.

The page prompts visitors to share the campaign on social media and "help @Apple #getthemessage."

"Texting between iPhone and Android is broken. It's time for Apple to fix green and blue bubbles, and texting for everyone," the social text said.

Apple did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

This is only the latest instance in which Google has called for Apple to adopt RCS. In June, Google seized an opportunity to get its point across when the rapper Drake released his song "Texts Go Green" about miscommunication with a partner.

Google's social team posted an "unofficial lyric explainer video" that praised the song and interpreted the lyrics as complaints against iPhone turning Android users' texts green.

Story continues

"If only some super talented engineering team at Apple would fix this," Google's June video said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A man living in Birmingham travelled to Bangladesh for dental treatment after he couldnt get an NHS appointment.

Speaking on LBC radio, the caller said he lost patience with the waiting times in the UK, and decided to seek treatment elsewhere.

I ended up paying 850 for a flight to Bangladesh, only to pay not even 65 to get an implant put in, the man told Tom Swarbrick, after he shared that private treatment in Birmingham would have cost him thousands.

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As construction of large-scale wind and photovoltaic power bases accelerates, China's new energy sector is expected to have greater growth potential this year amid efforts to achieve "dual carbon" goals.



In Urumqi, capital of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the construction of a wind power and photovoltaic base by China Huadian Corporation with a total installed capacity of 1 million kilowatts is progressing in full swing.

The project, which is among the first batch of large-scale wind and photovoltaic power bases greenlighted by the government, is expected to generate 2.5 billion kilowatt-hours of green electricity while saving consumption of 830,000 tonnes of standard coal and reducing carbon emissions of 2.1 million tonnes after completion.

All of the initial batches of such projects have thus far broken ground. The list of the second batch, which includes bases to be built in Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, Xinjiang, Qinghai and Gansu, has been released.

CONSIDERABLE ROOM FOR GROWTH

Experts believe that the promotion of new energy bases will significantly spur the development of the new energy industry.

In the first half of 2022, China's installed capacity of wind and photovoltaic power added 12.94 million kilowatts and 30.88 million kilowatts, accounting for 18.7 percent and 44.7 percent of total new capacity, respectively, data from the National Energy Administration showed.

Driven by the country's "dual carbon" goals, the new energy sector has become one of the few industries that features a high utilization rate without generating excess capacity, said Jiang Debin, an expert with the China Electricity Council.

Su Xinyi, an analyst with China Electric Power Planning & Engineering Institute, noted that the new energy sector will continue fast expansion in the second half.

China's newly installed capacity of wind and photovoltaic power for the entire year is expected to exceed 100 million kilowatts, while the consumption of power produced by the two energy sources is estimated to reach over 12.2 percent of total power consumption, Su said.

EFFICIENT UTILIZATION

In addition to boosting energy supply capacity, companies plan to double down on investments in projects including ultra-high voltage to improve the efficiency of new energy consumption.

The State Grid Corporation of China intends to inject 2.4 trillion yuan (about 354.53 billion U.S. dollars) into the power grid during the 14th Five-Year Plan Period (2021-2025) to advance the building of a new energy consumption system.

China Southern Power Grid plans a fixed-asset investment of 125 billion yuan this year, which partly will be directed to building supporting power grid projects for new energy transmission and pumped-storage hydroelectric projects.

Data from China Electric Power Planning & Engineering Institute showed China's new energy sector maintained a high-level utilization efficiency in the first half of this year. As of the end of June, the nationwide utilization rate of wind power stood at 95.8 percent, while that of photovoltaic power was 97.7 percent.
HA NOI  Vietnamese durians have made a name for themselves as a great-tasting fruit for overseas consumers but still have a long way to go the maintain their position on the international scene, according to insiders.

ang Phuc Nguyen, General Secretary of the Viet Nam Fruits and Vegetables Association, reveals that China, the largest importer of fresh Vietnamese durians, has allowed the fruits to be imported via official channels from July 12.

However, these opportunities come with obstacles as the Chinese General Administration of Customs (CGAC) requires that Vietnamese exporting firms and growing areas register with the Vietnamese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), and the registrations must be sent to CGAC for approval before the fruit can enter the country.

"Durians from unregistered firms or unregistered growing areas will not be allowed to cross the border," he said.

He also notes that registered growing areas must have quality management and a traceability system, meet Good Agricultural Practice standards and strictly comply with sanitary requirements to be eligible for approval.

Regarding other demanding markets such as the US and the EU, the general secretary said those markets insisted on Global GAP compliance and a strict chemical residue threshold for Vietnamese durian. Durians who do not tick all the boxes risk being rejected.

Ta uc Minh, Trade Counselor of the Viet Nam Trade Office in Japan, underscores Japan as a market with high standards and stringent fruit regulations.

As Vietnamese durian easily entered the country between 2017 and 2020, some Vietnamese exporters took the market for granted and became less strict on quality control.

In 2021, after several batches with excessive pesticide residues were detected, Japan increased the frequency of inspection of Vietnamese durian, making it more difficult for the fruit to reach Japanese consumers.

"Three cases of Vietnamese durian violating safety standards were detected in 2021, of which one was related to fresh durians and two to frozen," he said.

The trade counsellor recommends firms keep a close watch on quality control and strictly comply with safety standards to ensure no pesticide residues in durians. These measures will allow the fruit to gain ground in the Japanese market.

Nguyen Phu Hoa, Deputy Consul General in Sydney (Australia), underscores Australia as a high-end durian market. Accordingly, for Vietnamese firms, it would make more sense to compete on quality rather than price.

He also calls for a national trademark for Vietnamese durians to add more value to the fruit and ensure the sustainability of its exports.

"The Viet Nam Trade Office in Australia will support Vietnamese firms in media promotion to strengthen their presence in the country. Australia is a potential durian importer," he added.

Ngo Tuong Vy, General Director of the Chanh Thu Import-Export JSC., asserts that it is tough to gain entry into foreign markets and tougher to cause changes to consumer eating habits in favour of Vietnamese durians.

She also remarks that China's low standards on fruit were a thing of the past. The country has set the bar relatively high, and Vietnamese firms have no choice but to adapt to the shifting trade pattern.

Luu Huy, Director of the Viet Thai Agricultural Produce LTD says China has become stricter about its imported fruit.

He suggests four rules Vietnamese firms should follow to boost durian trade with the country.

First, Vietnamese durians must meet all the standards set out by Chinese trade authorities. Second, the fruit must reach a maturity rate of 80 per cent upon harvesting.

Third, the fruits must be almost identical weight-wise and quality-wise. Fourth, logistics and refrigeration systems must come up to scratch.

At the conference on China's higher bar on Vietnamese fruits recently, Deputy Director of the MARD's Agro Processing and Market Development Authority Le Thanh Hoa said that many markets were tightening up on Vietnamese fruits with stricter food safety and phytosanitation standards.

He said Vietnamese fruit must adapt to their new rules and regulations or otherwise commercially lose ground in those markets.

Vu uc Con, Deputy Director of the ak Lak Province's Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, revealed that the department had granted 77 agricultural codes to a total growing area of 1,600 ha so far.

Regarding durians, the department had established 24 packaging facilities and 38 growing areas and had sent the list to CGAC for approval.  VNS
Jorge Rubio, Citis global head of Social Finance visited Vietnam for meetings with several Vietnamese tech and digital clients.

Citi has been discussing social impact loan transactions with many of these clients as their businesses are impacting many areas, including education, healthcare, and financial inclusion for the underserved segments in Vietnam.

Potential resulting transactions are expected to contribute towards Citis Social Finance commitments that include the banks $1 trillion 2030 Sustainable Financing Goal of which $500 billion is for Social Finance and its goal to expand basic service access for 15 million households, including 10 million women by 2025.

Citi aims to be named among the worlds leading banks in driving the transition to net zero

The visit of Citi Asia Pacific head of Sustainability and Corporate Transitions Rapheal Erasmus follows the MoU for the Cooperation on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) towards Vietnams 2050 net zero carbon emission target signed in May between Citi Vietnam and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE).

The purpose of this MoU is to facilitate the exchange of information, sharing of knowledge, and technical assistance, to further accelerate the formation of mechanisms and policies to support low-emission development.

Citis sustainability focus areas include addressing climate change and supporting clients in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Rapheal Erasmus had a meeting with the Climate Change Department belonging to MoNRE. She shared with the Department and clients Citis net zero commitments, market trends in sustainability, energy transition challenges and potential solutions for the energy transition.

Citis sustainability focus areas include addressing climate change and supporting clients in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Citis ambition is to have a spot among the worlds leading banks in driving the transition to net zero. Citi is building upon its long track record of environmental finance commitments by establishing a clear Environmental Finance Goal to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy.

In Vietnam, Citi has been financing the import of wind turbines and working with a multinational company in the commodity trading segment for green financing to purchase environmentally friendly coffee from Vietnamese agents and farmers.

Citi is also working on a carbon offset project which distributes cookstoves and water purifiers to households in over 30 provinces in Vietnam.

The projects scale is to produce a meaningful amount of Voluntary Emission Reductions (VERs) in the next five years. Citi aims to offer these VERs to corporate clients so that they can offset their carbon footprint to be in line with their net zero targets.
As BNPL allows consumers to spread the cost over multiple instalments and attracts those who cannot, or would not, purchase goods or services by paying the price in full, these conditions create the ideal opportunity for BNPL service providers.

Bui Ngoc Hong-Partner, LNT & Partners

Despite the opportunity, the BNPL landscape in Vietnam remains slow-moving. This is partly due to the fact that Vietnam does not have a clear legal framework regulating the method. Even the sandbox scheme for fintech activities still remains in the legislative pipeline.

In addition, even if a BNPL platform owner cooperates with traditional bank lenders, the parties need to deal with a significant gap between the strict regulatory web the traditional lenders are subject to, and the fintech providers need to move fast and break things.

For those reasons, BNPL ventures find it hard to enter the Vietnamese market, unless they are equipped with suitable investment structures.

In BNPL services, the key activity is lending, which is generally restrictive to non-bank entities, including platform owners. In practice, lending activity may be provided by way of a number of structures  for example, a voucher structure; pawn shop structure; or a structure in which the BNPL platform owner partners with a licensed lender, known as a partnering structure.

In the voucher structure, BNPL companies operate a platform where consumers may purchase e-vouchers that allow them to make purchases and pay back in instalments.

In a pawn shop structure, generally, the pawnbroker may lend money to borrowers on the security of an article pawned by the borrower. For now, only local companies may be licensed to provide pawn shop services; so, to achieve the required localness, a special structure may need to be deployed.

Simply put, to serve customers, the partnering structure for BNPL requires three players, namely a company, a licensed lender, and a merchant. The BNPL company plays the role of an IT service provider that operates a platform connecting consumers with merchants and lenders. To merchants and lenders, the company offers its platform and tools, especially machine-learning algorithms, to analyse consumers shopping behaviours for credit provision purposes.

Via the platform, the application for a loan will be submitted for the lenders consideration. Upon approval, the loan proceeds will be disbursed either directly to the merchant responsible for the purchase, or to the appointed bank account of the consumer to finance the relevant purchase. The merchant will then proceed with the purchase. Repayment will be made in instalments by consumers over a predetermined period of time.

From practice, compared with other structures, the partnering structure proves to be pragmatic and efficiently harmonises various needs of the involved players, while effectively mitigating compliance risks. The partnering structure enables the fintech platform to leverage the credit of the finance company, which provides the necessary lending licenses and experience, to deliver credit to the customers. It also allows all parties to benefit from credit performance and underperformance on the credit.

Meanwhile, it enables the fintech platform to benefit from credit and licenses that it does not hold, allowing it to tap into the market that it otherwise could not. It creates a new channel for traditional banks and finance companies to deploy credit, enabling these traditional lenders to grow and at the same time keep their market share. And the partnering structure pulls together indemnity mechanisms and onboarding contracts to effectively mitigate compliance risks (see chart).

From implementing the partnering structure, there are a few matters that need to be handled efficiently, especially for the BNPL company.

First, the business lines to be registered for the company must be appropriate and serve their role in the structure. Secondly, data collection and processing, in which the BNPL company would likely be involved, gives rise to a number of additional compliance requirements. The third aspect is debt settlement, although debt collection service is currently prohibited under the current Law on Investment. The partnering structure process is made from all these, and each of them has to be unified properly in order to help achieve the commercial purpose, reducing the risks.

Looking to the future, the State Bank of Vietnam has recently circulated a new version of a draft decree regulating a sandbox mechanism for fintech in the banking industry, in which the BNPL service should be covered. The most important aspect of this draft decree is that the subjects eligible for the sandbox mechanism must be Vietnam-incorporated entities operating within Vietnams territory. This means in order for a provider to apply for the sandbox mechanism, the applicant must already be an operating fintech company in Vietnam.

For BNPL service providers being foreign to Vietnam, if they just wait for clear and sufficient regulations before they start entering into related services, the eligibility requirement of the said draft decree would be like a chicken and egg situation. Thus, to be eligible, they need to start engaging in the BNPL business. For that, the partnering structure, if professionally crafted and implemented, should help.
In the first seven months this year, Vietnams total export value to the American market approximated $77 billion, equal 22 per cent jump on-year, in which exports to the US market were a bright spot reaching $66.7 billion, up 23.7 per cent on-year.

Earlier, accelerated export of Vietnamese products to this market was a hallmark in 2021 reaching $114 billion in total export value, showing a 27 per cent jump on-year.

Vietnam also witnessed a big export surplus with this market reaching approximately $89 billion last year.

Exports to the US surpassed $96 billion in 2021, more than $21 billion compared to 2020, placing the US in the pole position among Vietnams export markets with export value far exceeding that of other markets such as China, the EU, ASEAN, South Korea, and Japan.

Several new markets clinching free trade agreements (FTA) with Vietnam in America such as Canada and Mexico have increased imports from Vietnam.

Apart from seafood and apparel, the export of wooden items to America also saw impressive growth

Accordingly, in the first seven months of this year, Vietnams export value to Canada touched $3.23 billion, soaring 31.5 per cent, and to Mexico reached $2.4 billion, up 14.2 per cent on-year.

In 2021, exports to Canada rose 20.8 per cent on-year to $5.3 billion, up 75 per cent compared to pre-pandemic times. Meanwhile, exports to Mexico came to $4.6 billion, more than double compared to pre-pandemic times.

According to Vo Hong Anh, deputy general director of the European-American Market Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), Vietnams exports to these markets eyed robust growth, leveraging FTA advantages.

Anh cited the example of shrimp exports for the efficiency of the new-generation FTA, the CPTPP.

Vietnams total export value to the American markets is expected to reach $130-135 billion in 2022, in which that to the US might surpass $100 billion.

After the CPTPP took effect in January 2019, Vietnams shrimp exports to Canada rose 23 per cent on-year, reaching $187 million.

In 2021, it rose 18 per cent compared to 2019, reaching $180 million, and in the first half of this year, it surpassed $100 million, soaring nearly 90 per cent on-year.

According to the MoIT, handsets, computers, and electronic items hold the largest proportion reaching 43.3 per cent; followed by textile, apparel, and footwear products with 25 per cent; wood and wooden items with 8 per cent; and agricultural and seafood products with 4 per cent, among others.

The contribution from the foreign-invested sector, however, still holds a lions share in Vietnams total export value to this market.

For instance, in Canada's textile, clothing, footwear, and wooden furniture imports from Vietnam, the FDI sector contributed nearly 80 per cent of the total value.

ADB: Vietnam set for a strong economic rebound The Asian Development Bank (ADB) maintained its forecast for Vietnams GDP growth at 6.5 percent in 2022 and projected the economy to further expand by 6.7 percent in 2023.

Bank of America to open branch in Ho Chi Minh City Bank of America  the second largest bank in the US  has submitted an application to open a branch in Ho Chi Minh City with a capital of around $50 million.

Footwear export shows strong rebound in first half Vietnams footwear sector has posted a strong rebound in the first half, with export turnover touching $10.4 billion, a 27.8 per cent jump on-year.

Hong Anh from the MoITs European-American Market Department assumed that to best avail of CPTPP advantages and have better export prices, local firms need to enhance their product value by improving the production process to fit customer taste and market requirements, apply science and technology to production, promote green products, and reduce emission during production.

According to MoIT, Vietnams total export value to the American market is expected to reach $130-135 billion in 2022, in which that to the US might surpass $100 billion and to other markets such as Canada, Mexico and Peru would continue double-digit growth.
The exclusive seminar introducing Happy One Central in Hong Kong

The launching seminar of Happy One Central was organised by the major reputable companies under Knightsbridge Partners including Asia Bankers Club, Golden Emperors, and Ashton Hawks. The seminar has drawn the attention of many Hong Kong investors.

Knightsbridge Partners has extensive experience in researching and distributing thousands of Vietnamese high-end apartment projects in foreign markets.

The company also boasts a team of experts with a local understanding of the Vietnamese real estate market. They not only spend a lot of time researching Law on Investment but also experience in guiding Hong Kong investors through the entire investment process in Vietnam.

Liu, a Hong Kong investor said, I have learned a lot about Vietnam, especially areas with a strong expat community. I am really keen on the potential of Binh Duong, which is one of the top foreign direct investment recipients in Vietnam. Binh Duong has lured a number of large corporations such as LEGO and Pandora. Real estate investment in Binh Duong is very suitable for my needs to expand my investment portfolio overseas. Therefore, with the support from Knightsbridge Partners, I plan to fly to Vietnam to take a closer look at the market as well as the Happy One Central project before making investment decisions.

Kingston Lai, founder and CEO of Knightsbridge Partners, shared about Binh Duong and Happy One Central

Kingston Lai, founder and CEO of Knightsbridge Partners, said that Asia Bankers Club, Golden Emperor, and Ashton Hawks have already had experience in distributing high-end real estate products to Hong Kong.

He highly appreciated the potential and outstanding development of Binh Duong as a manufacturing hub. Among them, the Happy One Central project promises to be a sure-fire investment for investors.

Once Happy One Central was introduced at the seminar, Hong Kong investors were really interested in the project with its prime location, on-site amenities, architectural design, and landscape. The project is also developed in line with international stands, bringing modern lifestyle and smart technology into apartments.

All of these factors have satisfied Hong Kong investors about the potential of the project.

Happy One Central is developed by Van Xuan Group, a prestigious corporation with more than 17 years of experience, and reputable international partners. The project incorporated the latest standards and trends to create a quality real estate product to meet the sophisticated requirements in developed markets such as Hong Kong. The outstanding architectural and amenity design has made Happy One Central more appealing to the eyes of investors at the launching seminar," Lai added.

Happy One Central made an impression when it first introduced to Hong Kong investors

Van Xuan Group aims to promote strategic partnerships with prestigious international partners as well as expand its markets outside of Vietnam.

One of its strategic steps is to promote Happy One Central in Hong Kong to conquer the professional and experienced investors there.

A representative of Van Xuan Group said, This is the first apartment project in Binh Duong being introduced to the Hong Kong market. Happy One Central is exclusively distributed by Knightsbridge Partners, the prestigious group receiving authorisation from CapitaLand, Masterise Homes, Hong Kong Land, Gamuda, and SonKim Land to distribute high-end real estate products to the international markets. Thus, we really trust the experience, professionalism, and transparency of our partners. The tie-up with prestigious international partners demonstrates our aspirations and vision of developing a living space that not only satisfies domestic customers but also successfully attracts foreign ones.
A drawing contest titled Travel with Muong Thanh - Dream Vacation is the opening programme for a series of activities commemorating the 30th anniversary of the founding of Muong Thanh Group.

The competition encouraged the youngsters to engage in additional activities with the goal of learning while playing. It helped them develop their creativity while forming personalities and developing sentiments for the wonders and beauties of their surroundings and encouraging them to appreciate Vietnam more via each location where a Muong Thanh hotel welcomes them.

Hundreds of kids, aged 6 to 15 nationally, participated in the event, and the organisers received more than 1,000 submissions from around the nation. Cities and provinces such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, and Bac Kan were all represented. The children's joy and dedication to the event is mirrored in their paintings, which are rich in concepts, design, and painting materials and are highly detailed and exhaustive.

The judging committee is meticulous in its evaluation of contest entries

The works of art with a variety of themes were created by the children's boundless imagination. Each tells a different story, such as a Muong Thanh Hotel on the Moon, a Muong Thanh Hotel under the Ocean, and a Muong Thanh Hotel in Wonderland.

This demonstrates the children's meticulous, precise, and enthusiastic effort, as well as their parents' interest in the contest. Despite the presence of a few children who made minor mistakes with the competition's regulations, the majority of the drawings adhered to the guidelines established by the Organising Committee.

Through the statements of children connected to each picture, parents are given the chance to better understand their desire for a holiday in a location where the child's joyful youth and family values are reflected.

An example of a contestant's artwork for the Travel with Muong Thanh - Dream Vacation competition

This is also a chance to gain a more complete understanding of the Muong Thanh hospitality system via the children's pure, pristine, and straightforward viewpoint. This is the message that the Muong Thanh Hotel Group wants to send via the contest, recognising and addressing the demands of several consumer groups and guests staying at Muong Thanh Hotels.

From August 2-10, the judges will continue to choose the winner, and the audience will vote. (Audience voting will end at midnight on August 10).

In 2022, Muong Thanh Group completed its 30-year journey  a significant milestone in the establishment and growth of the group.

Muong Thanhs spirit carried forward by successor Following the founder of Muong Thanh Group, chairman Le Thanh Than, who lighted up the spirit of solidarity and community responsibility, Le Thi Hoang Yen, CEO of Muong Thanh Group, continues to spread and foster the warm values of Muong Thanh to future employees.

Solutions for the accommodation industry in 2022 The online seminar Solutions for the accommodation industry was held at the headquarters of Muong Thanh Group on March 8. It was attended by tourism and marketing experts with the aim of providing the best preparation for the full reopening of tourism, helping businesses to take advantage of all opportunities over the coming year.

Muong Thanh hotels selected as accommodation for SEA Games athletes The three Muong Thanh Luxury Phu Tho, Muong Thanh Grand Bac Giang, and Muong Thanh Luxury Ha Nam were selected to accommodate athletes participating in the SEA Games 31 organised in Vietnam.
Bangkok  Thai businesses have set their sights on expanding trade and investment in Cambodia, especially in processed food, agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, plastic, and gems and jewellery.

The Aranyaprathet-Poipet border gate of Thailand and Cambodia (Photo: Asia News)

Sanan Angubolkul, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), said Cambodia is seeing average economic growth of 7  8% per year as a result of the country opening up to foreign direct investment.

Cambodia has been trying to develop its tourism and agricultural sectors, but the country still lacks sufficient knowledge and modern technology, especially in terms of storage and processing in order to increase values.

This offers a very good opportunity for Thai businesses to forge joint investments with Cambodian counterparts in many sectors as above, according to Sanan, who is also chairman of the Board of Trade of Thailand. He led the first post-pandemic visit to Cambodia by more than 60 Thai businesses on August 4  5.

The Thai business delegations also met with Cambodias Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Cham Prasidh. They urged the Cambodian government to help tackle obstacles to trade facilitation, in terms of rules and redundant regulations, to attract more foreign investment.

Sanan said Cambodia is potentially capable of becoming an export-orientated manufacturing base for Thai investors now that the country has free-trade agreements with several countries, including China and the Republic of Korea.

He added that the Thai business sector has also proposed that cooperation be focused on gems and jewellery, as well as education.

According to Sanan, the business group also proposed that the Thai government re-establish a rail link between Sa Kaeos Aranyaprathet district and Cambodias Poi Pet to facilitate cross-border trade and boost tourism around Thailands eastern border.

The rail link was halted following the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020.

Two-way trade between Thailand and Cambodia totalled 7.97 billion USD in 2021, up 10.2% from a year before.

Exports from Thailand accounted for 7.07 billion USD, and imports stood at 895 million USD.
China, Mongolia reach broad consensuses on strengthening ties

Xinhua) 08:34, August 09, 2022

ULAN BATOR, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- China and Mongolia have reached a wide range of consensuses during the visit of Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Ulan Bator on Sunday and Monday.

When meeting the press together with Mongolian Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh after holding talks here on Monday, Wang said that he has witnessed encouraging changes in Ulan Bator since his last visit two years ago and felt the vitality of the vast grassland.

As a friendly neighbor, China is truly glad to see the rapid progress made by Mongolia and is full of expectations for its development and revitalization, he added.

Wang expounded on the consensuses reached by two sides during his visit.

Both countries believed that in the face of the current complicated and ever-changing international and regional situation, China and Mongolia are closely connected with a shared future so they should be good neighbors more valuable than gold, good brothers sharing weal and woe and good partners striving for common development.

The two sides are willing to deepen the three alignments between the Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolia's Prairie Road development strategy, the Global Development Initiative and Mongolia's New Revival Policy, and China's "two-stage" strategic plan and Mongolia's long-term development policy, so as to create three engines for further development of bilateral relations.

Both sides reaffirmed respect for each other's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and firm mutual support on issues regarding each other's core interests.

China supports Mongolia in maintaining stability, focusing on development and exploring a development path in line with its national conditions. China appreciates that Mongolia reaffirms its commitment to the one-China principle and opposes interference in China's internal affairs concerning Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang and Hong Kong, among others.

The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation at the border, and facilitate the reopening of ports and connection of railways and highways to the largest possible extent so as to keep the industrial and supply chains stable and unimpeded.

The two sides signed a memorandum on cross-border railway transportation at the Gants Mod port, which will play an important role in helping Mongolia expand its opening-up and achieve strong growth.

The two sides agreed to promote cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, investment, mining and energy, science and technology, agriculture and animal husbandry, build major demonstration projects in areas including infrastructure and energy, and strive to achieve coordinated development and common prosperity.

China and Mongolia pledged to push ahead with the construction of the Erdeneburen hydropower plant in a coordinated manner and work faster to address the electricity supply for people in western Mongolia.

The two countries voiced their support for the early implementation of livelihood projects including renovating shanty-town areas, and building sewage treatment and meat processing plants.

The two sides will enhance cooperation in afforestation and desertification control. China appreciates Mongolia's plan to plant one billion trees and China has also proposed planting 70 billion trees in the next 10 years. China hopes that the two countries support each other in greening their homeland and safeguarding the green land and blue sky.

China and Mongolia also agreed to continue the cooperation to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and protect lives. They will increase direct flights between the two countries to facilitate personnel exchanges. China supports Mongolian students in returning to China to resume classes at an early date. They agreed to strengthen youth exchanges and sub-national cooperation to consolidate bilateral friendship.

The two sides agreed to strengthen coordination in international and regional affairs, uphold true multilateralism and open regionalism, push forward the implementation of the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, so as to jointly promote the development and prosperity of Asia and build a community with a shared future for mankind.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
You are here: China

The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) continued its joint combat exercises and training as scheduled on Monday in the waters and airspace around the Taiwan Island.

These exercises mainly focused on the joint anti-submarine operations and assaults on sea targets.

The Command's navy deployed several destroyers, frigates, warplanes, and ground-to-ship missile units in a joint anti-submarine operation.

Anti-submarine patrol aircraft, warships, and ship-based anti-submarine helicopters cooperated in exercises. These included submarine searches, simulated assaults, and defense operations.
Hanoi - Vietnam will need a skilled workforce to transform itself into an upper-middle-income economy by 2035, the World Bank has suggested in its recently-released report named Taking Stock: Educate to Grow.

Illustrative image (Photo: VNA)

In its bi-annual report, the lender said: Vietnam needs a workforce with 21st century skills to grow. As the economy moves from being driven by low skill and low wage jobs in manufacturing and services towards a more innovation driven growth model built on higher value-added industries and services, Vietnams workforce will need to attain higher level and more relevant skills.

The Vietnamese Governments Socio-economic Development Strategy for 2021-2030 says as much, aiming to use scientific, technological, innovative, and digitally transformative knowledge and build quality human resources as key drivers of higher productivity and future economic growth. To achieve these goals, Vietnam needs to reform its education system to improve quality and access, and thus provide the necessary skills to the population, it affirmed.

This edition also underlines transforming the higher education system as the key to boosting the countrys productivity and achieving its development goals, in the context where the country re-emerges from the pandemic and into a challenging global environment.

The reports co-author Dorsati Madani said that while Vietnams economic recovery had been relatively stable, not all sectors witnessed the same situation.

The impact on workers and households during the crisis was serious and lasting, with about 45 percent claiming lower incomes in December 2021 than the previous year.

The impact of the pandemic is still present with businesses reporting broad-based labour shortages as of March 2022, which were felt more acutely in services and manufacturing, and in the Ho Chi Minh City area.

This, in addition to growth slowdown or stagflation in main export markets, further commodity price shocks, continued disruption of global supply chains, or the emergence of new COVID-19 variants, are hindering Vietnams full recovery.

Statistics revealed that Vietnams population has an average 10.2 years of schooling, second only to Singapore among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries.

Vietnams human capital index is 0.69 out of a maximum of 1, the highest among the lower middle-income economies.

However, low skills relevance of the university graduates put the country in the bottom third of the 140 countries listed in the 2018 Competitiveness Index on skills relevance of university graduates.

A WB skills and enterprise survey published in 2019 also said that 73 percent of sampled Vietnamese firms report difficulties in recruiting employees with leadership and managerial skills, 54 percent with socio-emotional skills, and 68% with job-specific technical skills.

Focusing on tertiary and higher education, the WBs report recommends reforming the education system to improve quality and access, and thus provide the necessary skills to the population.

Reforms to Vietnams higher education system could help support development objectives, the report says.

The increasing financial costs of pursuing higher education and the perception of diminishing economic returns from pursuing higher education have weakened demand.

While efforts to enhance the business environment are crucial to enabling job creation, policymakers should also take steps to reduce skill-mismatches and improve the quality of Vietnams labour force.

Carolyn Turk, WB Country Director for Vietnam, said: To sustain economic growth at the desired rate, Vietnam needs to increase productivity by 2-3 percent every year.

International experiences have shown that higher worker productivity can be achieved by investing in the education system, as an important part of a basket of investments and reforms. A competitive workforce will generate much-needed efficiency for Vietnam in the long term.

In its report, the World Bank forecast Vietnams GDP growth to expand 7.5 percent in 2022 and 6.7 percent in 2023, with resilient manufacturing and a robust rebound in services serving as the driving forces for economic recovery.

Binh Duong businesess seek unskilled workforce Enterprises in Binh Duong province, one of the southern region's economic centres, need to recruit over 45,000 unskilled workers in 2015 to meet their production demands in garment, footwear and wood manufacturing fields.

ManpowerGroup helps Vietnam develop skilled workforce for Industry 4.0 ManpowerGroup, a world leader in innovative workforce solutions, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA) yesterday to support Vietnam in developing a skilled workforce and effective regulatory frameworks for the digital age.

Bosch supports training of highly skilled workforce towards Industry 4.0 Bosch's training project with the total investment of over 400,000 for three years is a part of the Vietnamese-German development cooperation in the technical and vocational education and training sector.

Meeting skilled workforce demand in manufacturing and processing industry Machine learning, AI, and automation are shaping the evolution of the manufacturing and processing industry, a bright spot of Vietnam's economic recovery prospects. Experts from ManpowerGroup Vietnam, Thailand, and Middle East and the Institute of Labor and Social Affairs, Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs have gathered to discuss sustainable solutions for workforce supply in the field.
Hanoi  The northern mountainous province of Yen Bai has received and implemented 21 programmes and projects funded by the World Bank (WB) with total investment of 4.67 trillion VND (199.65 million USD) since 2000, according to a local official.

Chairman of the Yen Bai province Peoples Committee Tran Huy Tuan and WB Country Director for Vietnam Carolyn Turk. (Photo: VNA)

Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Tran Huy Tuan told WB Country Director for Vietnam Carolyn Turk on August 9 that 18 out of the 21 projects have been put into use, while three are underway.

These projects have significantly contributed to local development in essential sectors like poverty reduction, construction, healthcare, rural transport and urban infrastructure, he stressed.

Turk was in Yen Bai province to discuss the implementation of the dynamic cities integrated development project, which includes Yen Bai city, with total investment amounting to 63.27 million USD, of which 39.46 million USD has been sourced from WB loans.

The objective of the 2019-2025 project is to increase access to urban infrastructure and to improve integrated urban planning. There are two components to the project, the first component being structural investments - rehabilitation and construction of resilient urban infrastructure. The second component is non-structural investments - technical assistance and implementation support.

At the working session, the two sides agreed on activities and measures to improve and speed up the implementation of the sub-project in Yen Bai city.

Lauding Yen Bais development, Turk noted her hope to visit the locality again.

Tuan used the occasion to thank the WB for its support to Yen Bai and expressed his hope to receive more assistance from the bank.
A Bellmead man was released on bond Monday after his arrest Sunday on charges that he shot at a home in a Bellmead neighborhood in June 2021.

John Wesley King was arrested on a third-degree felony charge of deadly conduct discharging a firearm, jail records show.

Police say King fired two shots on June 12, 2021 before 3:00 a.m. near the 1300 block of Lisa Street, according to a criminal complaint. Witnesses told police they saw a newer model red car fleeing the scene after the gunshots, the complaint states.

The complaint states that descriptions of the car and shooter from the home's resident and other witnesses matched King and his car.

Officers found a gunshot hole in a utility pole in the front yard of the home. They also found "a projectile in the driveway where it had struck a vehicle," the complaint states. The resident of the home told officers that her husband owed King money, the complaint states.
A city of Marlin employee has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against Falls County and its former Sheriff Ricky Scaman, claiming that he sexually assaulted her and exhibited a pattern of sexual misconduct against her and other women.

In the lawsuit filed in Wacos U.S. District Court last week, the employee claims that she and Scaman were at the scene of a fire in August 2020, and Scaman later arranged a meeting with her in which he assaulted her.

Scaman was arrested by the Texas Rangers and indicted on sexual assault charges involving the current plaintiff and a female Falls County employee.

Those charges were dropped this March in a plea deal in which he pleaded no-contest to a misdemeanor official oppression charge, surrendered his peace officers license and accepted deferred adjudication probation. Scaman was defeated in a November election by Joe Lopez, a Democrat.

Holding former sheriff Scaman and Falls County accountable for his wrong behavior and sending a message to public officials, and really everyone, that this kind of behavior is not tolerated or condoned and there will be consequences for those who do these kinds of things, plaintiffs attorney, Randall Kallinen, of Houston, said was goal of this lawsuit.

Another goal, Kallinen said in Monday phone interview, would be to show other victims of sexual misconduct and survivors of sexual assault that they are not silenced.

We want to give (our plaintiff) her day in court, or financial settlement, and encourage others who have been similarly mistreated to also speak out, Kallinen said.

Scamans previous attorney from the plea deal in March did not return phone calls seeking comment Monday. His present attorney has not yet been named on the federal court website.

The new federal lawsuit asserts that the sexual assault of the plaintiff directly violated her civil rights under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

It also cites two previous federal lawsuits filed by former sheriffs office employees against Scaman over sexual misconduct that have been settled. One was a former dispatcher and jailer who accused him of groping and assaulting her. The other was a a former assistant chief deputy who accused Scaman of gender discrimination and creating a hostile work environment.

Those cases, combined with past criminal complaints, demonstrate a pattern of behavior, the suit argues.

We have realleged a number of charges that Scaman faced in criminal court and were dropped, Kallinen said.

In a civil lawsuit, the burden of proof is preponderance of the evidence or more likely than not. A criminal prosecution has a much higher burden of proof, beyond a reasonable doubt.

The lawsuit states that Falls County government, by not holding Scaman accountable or having necessary policies in place to prevent the kind of harassment he exhibited, is also liable for the civil rights violations.

At the time of (plaintiffs) assault, Scaman had four sexual assault complaints filed against him by female employees, the federal suit reads.

Despite this, there was no apparent policy or education on workplace harassment for employees in the Falls County Sheriffs Office. There was also no apparent supervision or workplace accountability for Sheriff Scaman, despite his track record of abuse.

This plaintiff seeks compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorneys fees and a declaratory judgement that the policies, practices, acts and omissions violated her civil rights, the lawsuit states.

Falls County Judge Jay Elliot said over the phone Monday that the county is in process of retaining defense counsel for the suit through the Texas Association of Counties.

It is always disappointing to get a lawsuit against former county employees, Elliot said.
Waco Police this week are investigating the shooting of a motorist Sunday afternoon in a West Waco neighborhood.

Police responded around 1 p.m. Sunday to the scene of a reported shooting in the 6600 block of Alford Drive, police spokesperson Cierra Shipley said.

They found a man with a gunshot wound, who they determined had crashed his car into an utility pole. The man was transported to a hospital where he remained in stable condition Monday, Shipley said.

Police concluded that the bullet came from outside the victim's vehicle while the man was driving in the neighborhood, Shipley said.
A rising number of monkeypox cases in Texas, including two new cases last week in McLennan County, has raised concerns about the supply of monkeypox vaccine.

The White House last week declared monkeypox a public health emergency, following a similar worldwide declaration from the World Health Organization.

Texas has logged 446 new monkeypox cases in just under three weeks, putting the state at 556 since the states first was discovered on June 7.

Two new cases were confirmed in McLennan County last week, bringing the countys total to two after a July 20 case was ruled a false positive.

Unexpected circumstances caused Waco-McLennan County Health District officials to question the initial test results and order a second sample, said Vaidehi Shah, the districts senior epidemiologist.

The two new local cases were males, consistent with statewide trends. The Texas Department of State Health Services data that shows of the 556 reported cases, 547 were male. Most have been 30 to 39 years old.

The disease is typically spread through intimate contact, including prolonged face-to-face contact or sexual activities, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Waco-McLennan County Public Health District conducts contact tracing for each positive case to determine how the individual contracted the disease and who else might have been exposed, said

However, she said there could be many routes of transmission of the disease, and sometimes patients forget information or are reluctant to tell their physician. At that point, its difficult to pinpoint one person who transmitted the disease, she said.

As the outbreak gets bigger and bigger that is probably going to be more common, Shah said.

People with confirmed exposure to the disease are not required to quarantine, but they are then eligible to receive the vaccine.

If an individual is identified as a close contact, unless they show symptoms they dont have to quarantine, Shah said.

Just six people in McLennan County have been given the vaccine for post-exposure prevention, Shah said.

The shortage of vaccines in circulation has caused many places to be selective in administering them.

On July 23, Texas received 14,780 doses of the Food and Drug Administration-approved JYNNEOS vaccine from the federal Strategic National Stockpile. Houston later received 5,000 more.

JYNNEOS is a two-dose vaccine, leaving only 7,390 people vaccinated with the original shipment, since half the doses must be reserved for each persons second shot.

If each of the 556 cases reported exposing just one additional person and the exposed person took the vaccine as theyre eligible, thats 1,112 doses already used in the two weeks since July 23.

DSHS was notified on July 28 that Texas could receive 41,840 more doses, about 16,700 of which were ordered immediately. Nearly 13,000 more can be ordered on Aug. 15, and the federal government is monitoring outbreak status and vaccination data before administering the remaining doses.

Counties can request doses if needed, Shah said, but the state is not regularly allocating them.

We are dependent on the state and CDC to allocate a supply of vaccines if needed, Shah said.

Shah said the CDC has been rolling out vaccines for people who are more prone to exposure, such as health care and lab workers, or those who have already been exposed.

At this time it is more about resources, Shah said.

Shah said the vaccine has been effective in preventing further monkeypox outbreaks.

If an individual gets the vaccine within four days of exposure, then the vaccine can prevent disease, Shah said.

If an individual gets the vaccine later than four days it may not prevent the disease, but it can make illness less severe, she said.

As with any young viral outbreak, Shah said it is hard to tell what the future for monkeypox could be.

Just looking at what has happened around the country and around the world we may see an increase in the number of cases in McLennan County, Shah said.
After-school camps

Waco community centers will offer after-school camps from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday for children ages 5 to 13 starting Aug. 22.

The monthly rate is $65. Kids will participate in after-school tutoring and recreational activities. Space is limited.

To register, call Bledsoe-Miller at 254-750-8684, Dewey at 254-750-8677 or South Waco at 254-750-8650.

Medicare enrollment class

A Medicare educational meeting for new enrollees will start at 9:30 a.m. Aug. 23 at the Area Agency on Aging, 1514 S. New Road.

For more information, call Jan Enders at 254-292-1843.

Car contest, parade

A car decorating contest and parade for the upcoming Walk to End Alzheimers will be held Tuesday.

Cars will gather at 3 p.m. at Allen Samuels Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram Fiat, 201 W. Loop 340. From there, cars will drive to five different care facilities, where residents and staff of each facility will be able to vote on their favorite cars. The parade will end at Georges in Hewitt, where the Walk to End Alzheimers Kick-Off party will begin at 5:30 p.m.

To register email jaylyn.schumpert@cedarcresthospital.com.

Confederate veterans

Waco Sons of Confederate Veterans meets Tuesday at Poppa Rollos Pizza, 703 N. Valley Mills Drive. Meal will be at 6 p.m. and the speaker will talk at 7 p.m. For more information, call 254-717-1186.

GriefShare session

Peace Lutheran Church begins a 13-week session of GriefShare from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16. The group meets in the fellowship hall at the church, located at 9301 Panther Way in the Hewitt area.

The cost is $15. To preregister, contact Becky Ritz at 254-857-9794 or at rjritz@earthlink.net.
WATERLOO  Local art projects are getting a boost from the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs as part of an annual grant that funds artistic and cultural organizations across the state.

Last week, 191 recipients were announced for the annual round of funding totaling $2.3 million, and they included more than a dozen groups from the Waterloo-Cedar Falls area, with the money going towards everything from keeping the lights on to aiding the blind.

One group on the receiving end of the grants is Cedar Valley Chamber Music to the tune of $5,750. According to Hunter Capoccioni, founder and artistic director for the group, the funding was announced after its annual Chamber Music Festival was held, although he attributed that in part to the time of year the event takes place. However, the funding is still usable for the event, even after the fact.

Capoccioni explained in a phone interview that CVCM gives three subscription concerts a year. Funding can be used for venue rental, artist fees and community outreach. Unlike symphony music, which requires a large stage for all the musicians, there is usually only around five players in a chamber set, which gives them more flexibility.

We can travel around and go into the community to different places, so thats a key component of what we do in the festival, he said. And (funding) goes to supporting exactly those endeavors.

Another major undertaking being funded by the Cultural Affairs grants is the Vision Project, which is being put on by the Youth Art Team. According to Sophie Matlock, who works with the Waterloo-based art group, its project will consist of bringing in artists who are blind and visually impaired, then learning how they go about the creative process. They then hope to put together kits of special materials and distribute them throughout the state.

Next spring, organizers want to showcase some of the art to come from this project, though they acknowledged still being in the formative phases of the Vision Project.

We know were going to do it. But what exactly were going to do is up in the air, because it feels like the process is going to take a little bit of time.

They have received $10,000 for the project.

Other funding received by organizations for operational costs or projects in the Cedar Valley include:

$26,383, University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Lemberger Collection digitization project.

$9,642, La Porte City Historical & Ag Museum, historic fire station and jail masonry repairs phase one.

$6,000, University of Northern Iowa, promoting clarinet works by women composers.

$10,000, North Star Community Services Inc., creating connections: inclusive theatre project

$20,000, Grout Museum District, operating support.

$10,000, Waterloo-Cedar Falls Symphony Orchestra, operating support.

$10,000, James & Meryl Hearst Center for the Arts, operating support.

$15,000, Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area, operating support.

$15,000, Waterloo Community Playhouse/Black Hawk Childrens Theatre, operating support.

$20,000, Waterloo Center for the Arts, operating support.

$2,500, Grundy Center Elementary School, Matthew Cordell visit.
WATERLOO  A Kansas woman who was missing for almost a month has been found safe in Waterloo, according to police.

Makayla Robertson was last seen outside Abilene, Kansas, on July 17 when she apparently told her mother she was going to meet someone and then never returned.

Robertson has ties to a Waterloo man, and it wasnt until last week that Waterloo police were notified about the case.

On Tuesday, Waterloo police issued information about the disappearance, and by the end of the day she was found safe in the Waterloo area, authorities said.

Waterloo police notified Kansas authorities about the development.
WATERLOO  A Waterloo couple has been arrested after their son was twice found wandering the neighborhood in a state of undress.

On June 12, neighbors called police after spotting the 4 year old in nothing but a diaper in the 900 block of Linn Street around 7:15 a.m. One of the residents picked up the child until officers arrived.

Police found the child came from a home in the 300 block of Ricker Street, about a block away, and officers said the parents appeared to be intoxicated, according to court records. The matter was reported to the Iowa Department of Human Services.

Then around 8:25 a.m. Friday, the child had apparently ran a block and a half away from his home naked and had suffered a cut toe, according to court records.

Paramedics were called to treat the toe injury.

Police arrested Trisha Likaro, 30, and Mike Selikar, 32, on Saturday on two counts of misdemeanor child endangerment. Both have been released pending trial.

Photos: Missing children in Iowa
 Flash

Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh met with Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday.

Asking Wang to convey his sincere greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Khurelsukh said that Mongolia and China share a long history of exchanges, and are permanent friendly neighbors and good friends sharing weal and woe, with no political divergence or unresolved issues.

Mongolia firmly adheres to the one-China principle and believes that the issues related to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang are China's internal affairs, he said, noting that this is a consistent policy of the Mongolian side, and it will not change.

He said that Mongolia sincerely admires the great development achievements made by its friendly neighbor under the outstanding leadership of President Xi, and is glad to see that thanks to efforts on both sides, the important consensus reached by the two heads of state has been effectively implemented, and the goal of 10-billion-U.S. dollar bilateral trade volume has been successfully achieved.

The Mongolian side appreciates China's insistence on sharing development opportunities with neighbors, which helps Mongolia achieve common development and win-win cooperation, he said, adding Mongolia is willing to strengthen the synergy of development strategies of the two countries and deepen cooperation in various fields such as economy, trade, ports, infrastructure, and desertification prevention and control, so as to elevate the Mongolia-China comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level.

The Mongolian president said he is looking forward to strengthening the exchanges between the Mongolian People's Party and the Communist Party of China (CPC), and opening a new century of cooperation between the two century-old major parties. He wishes the upcoming 20th National Congress of the CPC a complete success.

Mongolia highly appreciates China's epidemic prevention and control policy, which not only effectively guarantees the health and well-being of the 1.4 billion Chinese people, but also makes important contributions to the global fight against the pandemic, Khurelsukh said.

He expressed his sincere gratitude to China for overcoming its own difficulties and providing multiple batches of vaccines and anti-epidemic materials to Mongolia.

The Mongolian side speaks highly of China's positive contribution to defending the UN Charter and attaches great importance to the significance of the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative in promoting world peace, security and development, in which Mongolia will actively support, participate, deepen synergy with and put into practice, Khurelsukh said.

For his part, Wang conveyed the cordial greetings from President Xi to President Khurelsukh, noting that China and Mongolia are good neighbors that cannot be traded for gold, good brothers who share weal and woe, and good partners who overcome tough times together.

The two sides joined hands to fight the epidemic by gifting one another with sheep and tea, writing a new story of friendship between the two countries, Wang said.

Firmly adhering to the principle of "people first, life first," China is committed to protecting the life and health of the Chinese people, and has contributed to the global fight against COVID-19, which reflects the responsibility of a major country with a large population, Wang said.

China will continue to adhere to the existing policy, coordinate the epidemic prevention and control with socio-economic development, and continue to provide anti-epidemic support according to Mongolia's needs, so as to jointly defeat the epidemic, he said.

The Chinese side will continue to carry out all-round mutually beneficial cooperation with Mongolia under the guidance of President Xi's concept of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and the principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interests, he added.

China will always be a major country that accommodates the comfort of its neighbors, provides support and assistance to them, and develops together with them, Wang said.

China is willing to cooperate with Mongolia to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and, in the direction towards building a community with a shared future, to deepen the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolia's Prairie Road development strategy, the Global Development Initiative and Mongolia's New Revival Policy, as well as China's "two-stage" strategic plan and Mongolia's long-term development policy, so as to help Mongolia transform its resources and geographical endowments into development advantages, and better benefit the Mongolian people with the development of China-Mongolia relations, he said.

China appreciates Mongolia's reaffirmation of its firm support for the one-China principle and its opposition to interference in China's internal affairs, Wang said, adding that China also supports Mongolia in safeguarding its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and taking a development path that suits its own national conditions.

Citing a Chinese proverb which goes like "For our friends, we have fine wine. For jackals or wolves, we welcome with shotguns," Wang said the Chinese side is willing to join hands with Mongolia and other developing countries to move forward together, continue to support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests, jointly maintain peace and tranquility, build a beautiful homeland, and benefit future generations.

During his visit to Mongolia, Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene and Chairman of the State Great Hural (Parliament) Gombojav Zandanshatar met with Wang, respectively.

Also on Monday, Wang held talks with Mongolian Foreign Minister Batmunkh Battsetseg and attended a joint press conference. The two sides signed documents on foreign ministries' cooperation between the two countries and witnessed the signing of cooperation documents about railway ports, health quarantine and others.
WATERLOO  Two Waterloo women have been arrested for allegedly trying to circumvent state debt collection efforts when they cashed in a winning lottery ticket.

According to court records, Tammie Jo Kisner, 48, bought a Bonus Crossword Lottery ticket at the Kwik Star on West Ninth Street on June 30. The following day, she scanned it to confirm it was a winner to the tune of $3,000.

But authorities allege Kisner owed the state of Iowa money  mainly fines and surcharges from prior charges  and the winnings would have been used to offset her debt.

So, instead of cashing in the ticket and losing the money, Kisner allegedly enlisted the help of a store employee, Tamera McClarin, offering $200 if McClarin cashed in the ticket, according to court records. McClarin cashed the ticket in July 5.

Investigators apparently used surveillance video to determine Kisner was the person who actually bought the ticket. McClarin told police the ticket had been a gift from Kisner, court records state.

On Friday, Kisner and McClarin, were arrested for lottery fraud, a felony.

Photos: Missing children in Iowa
DES MOINES  Iowa Republicans jumped to former President Donald Trumps defense after the FBIs search for documents as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House to his Florida estate.

Some quickly denounced the Monday search by the FBI of Trumps Mar-a-Lago home in Florida, where agents executed a search warrant for classified documents, the Associated Press reported.

The Department of Justice must immediately explain their justification for this unprecedented raid, Marion Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson tweeted Tuesday.

A Republican majority will provide rigorous oversight of the Biden Administration and ensure they are serving the American people, not targeting them, Hinson tweeted.

The Miami Herald reported agents obtained a search warrant from a federal magistrate judge in West Palm Beach to get dozens of boxes allegedly containing classified material that Trump had taken to his home when he left the White House. A source close to the investigation told the Miami Herald the FBI was able to show probable cause because Trump and his lawyers had already turned over classified documents sought by the National Archives and Records Administration, and agents suspected that Trump was unlawfully holding other classified documents from his presidency in his private club and residence at Mar-a-Lago.

Some of the materials Trump took included letters and notes from foreign leaders, such as North Koreas Kim Jong Un, the Washington Post reported.

Trump and his allies, including Republican Party of Iowa Chairman Jeff Kaufmann, sought to cast the search as a weaponization of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep the former president from winning another term in 2024  though the White House said it had no prior knowledge and current FBI Director Christopher Wray was appointed by Trump, the AP reported.

Fellow Iowa House GOP members Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Ottumwa and Randy Feenstra of Hull also denounced the FBIs search.

Feenstra called the FBIs search an unprecedented escalation of the use of law enforcement against a former President.

Our Justice system should be consistent, fair, and transparent, Feenstra tweeted. The FBI must immediately provide a full accounting of facts. The American people deserve answers.

Miller-Meeks tweeted: Its time for Washington to focus on the crimes happening at our border and cities, energy independence and not wasting taxpayer dollars investigating political rivals.

Trump ally and Iowas senior Republican senator, Chuck Grassley, said conservatives have reason to be skeptical of Trump-related investigations.

Transparency brings accountability & if the FBI & DOJ arent transparent about raiding a former presidents home they risk further damaging their credibility, Grassley tweeted.

Fellow Iowa Republican U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst said, The American people deserve answers, now.

A totally unprecedented action by the DOJ and FBI  the same agencies who labeled parents domestic terrorists and sat on the sidelines while Justices were threatened and churches were vandalized, Ernst tweeted.

While no former president has ever been the subject of an FBI search of their home, former White House aides say Trump repeatedly and flagrantly mishandled classified documents.

Multiple federal laws govern the handling of classified records and sensitive government documents, including statutes that make it a crime to remove such material and retain it at an unauthorized location.

There is no revenge happening here, Iowa Senate Minority Leader Zach Wahls, D-Coralville, tweeted. There is no deep state acting here. There is a former president who appears to have broken multiple laws. There is an AG who is enforcing the law. That is what is happening. Dont let them gaslight you.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The FBI searched Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence, people familiar with the matter said Monday, a move that represents a dramatic and unprecedented escalation of law enforcement scrutiny of the former president.

Trump, disclosing the search in a lengthy statement, asserted that agents had opened up a safe at his home and described their work as an unannounced raid that he likened to prosecutorial misconduct.

The search intensifies the months-long probe into how classified documents ended up in boxes of White House records located at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year. It occurs amid a separate grand jury investigation into efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and adds to the potential legal peril for Trump as he lays the groundwork for another run.

Familiar battle lines, forged during a a four-year presidency shadowed by FBI and congressional investigations, quickly took shape again Monday night. Trump and his allies sought to cast the search as a weaponization of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep him from winning another term in 2024  even though the Biden White House said it had no prior knowledge of it, and the current FBI director, Christopher Wray, was appointed by Trump five years ago and served as a high-ranking official in a Republican-led Justice Department.

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, Trump wrote. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before.

After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Trump said in his statement.

Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search, including about whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorized it.

Trump did not elaborate on the basis for the search, but the Justice Department has been investigating the potential mishandling of classified information after the National Archives and Records Administration said it had received from Mar-a-Lago 15 boxes of White House records, including documents containing classified information, earlier this year. The National Archives said Trump should have turned over that material upon leaving office, and it asked the Justice Department to investigate.

There are multiple federal laws governing the handling of classified records and sensitive government documents, including statutes that make it a crime to remove such material and retain it at an unauthorized location. Though a search warrant does not suggest that criminal charges are near or even expected, federal officials looking to obtain one must first demonstrate to a judge that they have probable cause that a crime occurred.

Two people familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, said the search happened earlier Monday and was related to the records probe. Agents were also looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at the estate.

Trump has previously maintained that presidential records were turned over in an ordinary and routine process. His son Eric said on Fox News on Monday night that he had spent the day with his father and that the search happened because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession.

Asked how the documents ended up at Mar-a-Lago, Eric Trump said the boxes were among items that got moved out of the White House during six hours on Inauguration Day, as the Bidens prepared to move into the building.

My father always kept press clippings, Eric Trump said. He had boxes, when he moved out of the White House.

Trump emerged from Trump Tower in New York City shortly before 8 p.m. and waved to bystanders before being driven away in an SUV.

In his first public remarks since news of the search surfaced, Trump made no mention of it during a tele-town hall on behalf of Leora Levy, the Connecticut Republican he has endorsed in Tuesdays U.S. Senate primary to pick a general election opponent against Democratic U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal. Trump gave his public backing to Levy late last week, calling her on Monday the best pick to replace Connecticuts joke of a senator.

But in a social media post Monday night, he was much more unguarded, calling the search a weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024.

Other Republicans echoed that message. GOP National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel denouncing the search as outrageous and said it was a reason for voters to turn out in November.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican who is considered a potential 2024 presidential candidate, said in a statement on Twitter that it was an escalation in the weaponization of U.S. government agencies. Kevin McCarthy, the House Minority Leader, said in a tweet that the Justice Department has reached an intolerable state of weaponized politicization and said that if Republicans win control of the U.S. House, they will investigate the department.

That Trump would become entangled in a probe into the handling of classified information is all the more striking given how he tried during the 2016 presidential election to exploit an FBI investigation into his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, over whether she mishandled classified information via a private email server she used as secretary of state. Then-FBI Director James Comey concluded that Clinton had sent and received classified information but the FBI did not recommend criminal charges because it determined that Clinton had not intended to break the law.

Trump lambasted that decision and then stepped up his criticism of the FBI as agents began investigating whether his campaign had colluded with Russia to tip the 2016 election. He fired Comey during that probe, and though he appointed Wray months later, he repeatedly criticized him too as president.

Thomas Schwartz, a Vanderbilt University history professor who studies and writes about the presidency, said there is no precedent for a former president facing an FBI raid -- even going back to Watergate. President Richard Nixon wasnt allowed to take tapes or other materials from the White House when he resigned in 1974, Schwartz noted, and many of his papers remained in Washington for years before being transferred to his presidential library in California.

This is different and it is a sign of how unique the Trump period was, said Schwartz, author of Henry Kissinger and American Power: A Political Biography. How his behavior was so unusual.

The probe is hardly the only legal headache confronting Trump. A separate investigation related to efforts by Trump and his allies to undo the results of the 2020 presidential election  which led to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol  has also been intensifying in Washington. Several former White House officials have received grand jury subpoenas.

And a district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia, is investigating whether Trump and his close associates sought to interfere in that state's election, which was won by Democrat Joe Biden.
DETROIT (AP)  The historic section of Detroit where Motown Records founder Berry Gordy Jr. built his music empire six decades ago is now looking better than ever.

Motown legend  and Gordy's best friend  Smokey Robinson was among those who visited the newly improved Motown Museum site on Monday night for an event celebrating the completion of the first two phases of the museum's expansion.

Robinson was joined by Otis Williams, Martha Reeves and other Motown luminaries in celebrating the grand opening of Hitsville NEXT, an educational programming and creative hub, and the newly established Rocket Plaza.

Kids who aren't even born yet will be aware of Motown, Robinson told The Associated Press during an interview ahead of the event held near the entrance to the museum. Some of their parents weren't even born when we started this. But it's a wonderful thing.

The festivities included comments from Robinson and Williams, an original founding member of The Temptations who gifted microphones to the museum from his personal collection.

And they concluded with a performance of the Temptations classic, My Girl, performed by the cast of the musical "Ain't Too Proud," and introduced by Marcus Paul James, who portrays Williams in the show.

I am very happy to be part of something  this here, Motown  (that will) outlast us all," Williams said.

The museum will continue to be housed in the famed Hitsville, U.S.A building at 2648 West Grand Boulevard.

But three nearby Motown-era buildings have been transformed into Hitsville NEXT, which will be home to camps, workshops, master classes and community events. It represents the first phase of the museum's expansion.

Phase two is Rocket Plaza, an outdoor plaza that will serve as a community gathering place and a welcome destination for museum visitors.

This plaza is the new front porch to Motown, said Robin Terry, Motown Museum chairwoman and CEO.

Gordy launched Motown in 1959. His late sister, Esther Gordy Edwards, founded the museum in the former Hitsville headquarters in 1985. In addition to Robinson and The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye and many others recorded hits there before Motown moved to California in 1972.

The museum is inviting the community to its Founders Day celebration on Saturday in honor of Gordy Edwards, the reopening and the completed expansion phases.

And the museum on Sunday will welcome back visitors for tours of Hitsville, U.S.A. following pandemic- and construction-related closures.
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  More than 60 Oklahoma lawmakers, including many Republicans who support the death penalty, urged the state attorney general to join their request for a new evidentiary hearing in the case of death row inmate Richard Glossip.

The group of 61 state legislators sent a letter last week to Attorney General John OConnor that pointed to an independent investigation by a Texas law firm that raised questions about Glossips guilt. Details of the report came out a couple of weeks before the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals set a Sept. 22 execution date for Glossip.

The report concluded that no reasonable juror who heard all the evidence would find Mr. Glossip guilty," the letter stated. As elected officials representing the citizens of this great state, we believe it is vitally important to conduct a serious review of this case so that the truth might be conclusively found."

The report by the Houston law firm Reed Smith did not find any definitive proof of Glossip's innocence, but raised concerns about lost or destroyed evidence and a detective asking leading questions to Glossip's co-defendant, Justin Sneed, to implicate Glossip in the 1997 killing of Glossip's boss, motel owner Barry Van Treese. Sneed, who admitted killing Van Treese but said he did so at Glossip's direction, was sentenced to life in prison and was a key witness against Glossip.

O'Connor's office didn't immediately respond to a request for comment, but prosecutors in his office have urged the Court of Criminal Appeals to reject Glossip's request for an evidentiary hearing, suggesting it's a delay tactic.

The appellant's actions in this sense are dilatory and only prolong the wait for justice for the victim, Barry Van Treese, and his family in this case," the state wrote in July after Glossip objected to the court setting his execution date.

Van Treese's brother, Ken Van Treese, said Monday that Glossip was twice convicted and twice sentenced to death by two separate juries.

Having sat through and testified at both, the facts that were presented at both trials never varied," Van Treese wrote in a message to The Associated Press. As far as I'm concerned, the guilty verdicts awarded were completely justified and the duly sworn jurors agreed with facts presented.

The citizens of Oklahoma made this determination based upon the facts in the case. They decided the case based upon Oklahoma law."

Glossip, now 59, has maintained his innocence. He has been scheduled to be executed three separate times, only to be spared shortly before the sentence was set to be carried out. He was just hours from being executed in September 2015 when prison officials realized they had received the wrong lethal drug, a mix-up that led in part to a nearly seven-year moratorium on the death penalty in Oklahoma.

Follow Sean Murphy at www.twitter.com/apseanmurphy
DES MOINES  Deidre DeJear, the Democratic candidate for Iowa governor, on Tuesday called on Republican incumbent Gov. Kim Reynolds to participate in at least three debates before the Nov. 8 election.

At a news conference near the Iowa Capitol, DeJear said her campaign has accepted at least three invitations from media outlets and advocacy organizations that are hosting debates or candidate forums, and has been in discussions with more.

When we talk about all political power being inherent in the people, the peoples way is through democracy and exercising their right to vote. And the people deserve myself and our current governor on a stage, DeJear said at the news conference.

Reynolds campaign spokesman said the governor is happy to debate, and that those details will be ironed out as fall approaches.

Rick Stewart, the Libertarian Party candidate for governor, posted on social media his own debate challenge to DeJear, calling on her to reject any offers from debates that do not also include him.

MATHIS ENDORSEMENTS: The campaign for Democratic congressional candidate Liz Mathis announced the endorsements of nine Black pastors in Black Hawk County. The endorsements were reached as a group, according to one of the pastors statement in a Mathis campaign news release.

Mathis, a state legislator and nonprofit leader from Hiawatha, is running against Republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson.

Our group met with Liz Mathis and I believe Liz is the only one who can eliminate the division in our state and restore the much needed unity we have longed for, said the Rev. Frantz Whitfield, a pastor at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Waterloo. Iowans need a person who has our best interests at heart. Lizs work in the Iowa state senate proves shes ready for the task ahead and we need her in Washington. She will get the job done and she will not put party over people.
DES MOINES  Mallory McMorrow said she vividly remembers Zach Wahls 2011 speech on the floor of the Iowa House in defense of same-sex marriage.

Then an advocate with two mothers and now a Democratic state senator from Coralville, Wahls in that 2011 speech spoke out against a Republican proposal to ban same-sex marriage in Iowa.

McMorrow said she recalls watching Wahls speech and thinking, Just how cool that was seeing a young person stand up very publicly and speak as eloquently and forcefully as he did.

McMorrow could just as well be describing other Democrats reaction to her own viral statehouse remarks earlier this year  she raised more than $1 million in the wake of her speech  which is why she will be speaking in Iowa this week at a party fundraiser.

McMorrow, a Democratic state senator from Royal Oak, Mich., has become a rising star in the Democratic Party after her viral response on the Michigan Senate floor earlier this year to accusations that she was grooming children. She will deliver the keynote address Friday night at the Iowa Democratic Wing Ding at The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake.

The Wing Ding is the annual fundraiser for Democratic Party organizations in seven northern Iowa counties.

It feels so deflating for a lot of Democrats right now. And this sounds super cheesy, but if we can do pep talks all around the country and get Democrats fired up, Id love to do that, McMorrow said Monday in a phone interview.

Whether or not they are deflated, Iowa Democrats are at the very least in an electoral funk. Over the past three election cycles, Republicans have gained full control of the state lawmaking process by winning the governors office and majorities in both chambers of the Legislature, and have claimed five of the six spots in the states congressional delegation.

And Republicans have their sights set even higher for this fall: They believe they have an opportunity to earn a complete congressional delegation sweep, and not only maintain but expand their hold on state offices by winning campaigns for state attorney general and treasurer, both of which have been held by Democrats for decades.

McMorrow said her message will be one that Democrats can take to voters even in states like Iowa. She said that she represents in the Michigan Senate a district that leans conservative and includes the hometown of Republican U.S. senator and former presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

We have to get past the idea that just because somebody says its a red state, doesnt mean its a red state. The people are there. We just have to find them and connect with them, McMorrow said. The response that Ive had over the past three months I think shows that people are craving Democrats (who are) standing up and fighting back and feeling the way that they do. And we have every right to do that, and do it in places where it may not be expected.

The Iowa Democratic Wing Ding is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday. Tickets can be purchased at iowawingding.com.

The Republican Party of Iowa declined to offer comments for this article.
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.
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...Showers and Thunderstorm Chances Through Thursday... * Monsoon moisture will continue to provide chances for showers and thunderstorms across the eastern Sierra and western Nevada through Thursday with chances diminishing into the weekend. * These fast moving storms will be capable of dry lightning strikes across portions of northeast California and far Northwestern Nevada tonight into Thursday morning. * Wetter storms are expected over areas roughly south of I-80 in the Sierra and western Nevada through this evening and into Thursday morning. Localized areas of heavy rainfall with localized areas of flash flooding will be possible across areas of steep terrain and across recent burn scar areas. * Storm potential will trend down on Thursday and Friday with the best chances for isolated storms remaining across northeast California and Northwest Nevada. A few of these storms could be stronger with the potential for hail, heavy rainfall, and gusty outflow winds. * Ensure you have a way of receiving weather alerts. If you live in a flash flood prone area, especially near a burn scar, be ready to act quickly if heavy rainfall occurs.
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Two white men were sentenced to life in prison on Monday for the 2020 murder of Black man Ahmaud Arbery.

U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of Georgia Lisa Godbey Wood handed down the sentences against Travis McMichael and his father, Greg McMichael.

"A young man is dead. Ahmaud Arbery will be forever 25. And what happened a jury found happened because he's Black," Wood said.

A federal jury convicted the McMichaels and their neighbor William "Roddie" Bryan in February of violating Arbery's civil rights by attacking him because of his race.

All three were also found guilty of attempted kidnapping while the McMichaels were convicted of using guns in the commission of a violent crime.

The McMichaels armed themselves with guns and chased Arbery in a pickup truck after he ran past their home outside Brunswick, Georgia on Feb. 23, 2020.

Bryan joined the pursuit in his own truck and recorded a phone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery.

The McMichaels claimed they suspected Arbery was a burglar but investigators determined he was unarmed and had committed no crimes.

Greg McMichael addressed the Arbery family on Monday, saying that their loss was "beyond description."

"I'm sure my words mean very little to you but I want to assure you I never wanted any of this to happen," he said.

Outside the courtroom, Arbery's mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones, responded to his statement.

"I think he realizes that he made some horrible decisions," she said. "Unfortunately, his apology doesn't bring back my son."

Bryan is set to be sentenced at separate hearings later on Monday.

A Georgia state judge imposed life sentences for all three men in January for Arbery's murder.

The sentences on Monday came days after the U.S. Department of Justice charged four current and former police officers in Louisville, Kentucky for their roles in the 2020 fatal shooting of African American woman Breonna Taylor.

"Breonna Taylor should have awakened in her home, as usual, on the morning of March 13, 2020," Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke said last week. "Tragically, she did not. She was just 26 years old."

The indictments against the officers allege that Louisville Police Detective Joshua Jaynes and Sergeant Kyle Meany drafted and approved what they knew was a false affidavit to support a search warrant for Taylor's home.

That false affidavit set in motion events that led to Ms. Taylor's death when other officers executed that warrant, according to Clarke.

The killings of Arbery and Taylor fueled racial justice demonstrations across the United States after the murder of African American man George Floyd by a white police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota in May 2020.
Weather Alert

...Thunderstorm Chances Through Thursday... * Monsoon moisture will bring thunderstorms to the region this week, with the best chances extending through Thursday before diminishing into the weekend. * A few light showers are occurring early this morning, with thunderstorms developing again this afternoon. Most areas will see a 25-50% chance of storms in the afternoon and early evening hours today and Thursday. Nocturnal showers and thunderstorms are expected tonight as well. * Impacts will range from lightning, new fire starts, and strong outflow winds with blowing dust, to periods of heavy rainfall and flash flooding. * Ensure you have a way of receiving weather alerts. If you live in a flash flood prone area, especially near a burn scar, be ready to act quickly if heavy rainfall occurs.
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China and Mongolia have reached a wide range of consensuses during the visit of Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Ulan Bator on Sunday and Monday.

When meeting the press together with Mongolian Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh after holding talks on Monday, Wang said that he has witnessed encouraging changes in Ulan Bator since his last visit two years ago and felt the vitality of the vast grassland.

As a friendly neighbor, China is truly glad to see the rapid progress made by Mongolia and is full of expectations for its development and revitalization, he added.

Wang expounded on the consensuses reached by two sides during his visit.

Both countries believed that in the face of the current complicated and ever-changing international and regional situation, China and Mongolia are closely connected with a shared future so they should be good neighbors more valuable than gold, good brothers sharing weal and woe and good partners striving for common development.

The two sides are willing to deepen the three alignments between the Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolia's Prairie Road development strategy, the Global Development Initiative and Mongolia's New Revival Policy, and China's "two-stage" strategic plan and Mongolia's long-term development policy, so as to create three engines for further development of bilateral relations.

Both sides reaffirmed respect for each other's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and firm mutual support on issues regarding each other's core interests.

China supports Mongolia in maintaining stability, focusing on development and exploring a development path in line with its national conditions. China appreciates that Mongolia reaffirms its commitment to the one-China principle and opposes interference in China's internal affairs concerning Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang and Hong Kong, among others.

The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation at the border, and facilitate the reopening of ports and connection of railways and highways to the largest possible extent so as to keep the industrial and supply chains stable and unimpeded.

The two sides signed a memorandum on cross-border railway transportation at the Gants Mod port, which will play an important role in helping Mongolia expand its opening-up and achieve strong growth.

The two sides agreed to promote cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, investment, mining and energy, science and technology, agriculture and animal husbandry, build major demonstration projects in areas including infrastructure and energy, and strive to achieve coordinated development and common prosperity.

China and Mongolia pledged to push ahead with the construction of the Erdeneburen hydropower plant in a coordinated manner and work faster to address the electricity supply for people in western Mongolia.

The two countries voiced their support for the early implementation of livelihood projects including renovating shanty-town areas, and building sewage treatment and meat processing plants.

The two sides will enhance cooperation in afforestation and desertification control. China appreciates Mongolia's plan to plant one billion trees and China has also proposed planting 70 billion trees in the next 10 years. China hopes that the two countries support each other in greening their homeland and safeguarding the green land and blue sky.

China and Mongolia also agreed to continue the cooperation to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and protect lives. They will increase direct flights between the two countries to facilitate personnel exchanges. China supports Mongolian students in returning to China to resume classes at an early date. They agreed to strengthen youth exchanges and sub-national cooperation to consolidate bilateral friendship.

The two sides agreed to strengthen coordination in international and regional affairs, uphold true multilateralism and open regionalism, push forward the implementation of the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, so as to jointly promote the development and prosperity of Asia and build a community with a shared future for mankind.
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WASHINGTON  Shoes off, an almost-empty container of leftovers, an unfinished glass of wine  this was the exhausted portrait of one of the most powerful Democrats in Washington after Senate passage of President Joe Bidens sweeping health, climate and economic package.

New Yorks Chuck Schumer effectively moved from minority to majority leader of the U.S. Senate on the morning of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, and he has helmed the chamber through a tumultuous, messy and yet surprisingly productive run with the longest evenly split 50-50 Senate in the nations history.

Methodical he is not, as the crumbs scattered on the senatorial carpet in his office off the Senate floor attest.

But with a willingness to broker politically unpleasant compromises and a New Yorkers drive to keep pestering his colleagues, Schumer is using his partys fragile control of the Senate for substantive, sizable accomplishments unseen in recent years.

Persistence. I persist, Schumer said in an interview late Sunday evening after the round-the-clock session and Senate passage of Bidens bill.

The $740 billion package, less than once envisioned but still huge, would be a big legislative win for any president and his party. For Biden and the Democrats, it builds on long-running aspirations of lowering health care costs, taxing big corporations that skip paying their share and launching the nations largest investment, some $375 billion, to fight climate change. With revenue raised from corporate taxes and allowing the federal government to negotiate some prescription drug costs with pharmaceutical companies, the remaining $300 billion goes to deficit reduction.

Not everyone is cheering Schumer.

Republicans deride the Democrats effort as yet another reckless taxing-and-spending spree, as Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell put it. Over the weekend, he argued that the Democrats have mistaken their slim control, with Vice President Kamala Harris able to cast a tie-breaking vote, as a mandate for far-reaching policy goals.

And the 755-page bill comes on top of a string of similarly pared-back initiatives, deep disappointments for the partys liberal wing. But some have been backed by Republicans with rare bipartisan accord, adding up to a Congress with unexpected gains.

The toughest gun violence measure in a generation, a bipartisan effort to tighten who can own guns, is now law. This week Biden is about to sign into law a $280 billion bipartisan bill to boost the semiconductor industry as well as a nearly $300 billion measure to help veterans exposed to toxic burn pits.

By themselves, Democrats muscled through a $1 trillion COVID-aid package that McConnell calls a buffet of all-you-can-eat liberal spending. But McConnell and Republicans joined Schumer in passing the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill for the nations roads, broadband and other needs.

In addition to legislation, over the past 18 months under Schumers leadership the Senate held the nations fourth-ever presidential impeachment trial, eventually acquitting Donald Trump on charges he incited the Capitol insurrection; ratified the accession of Finland and Sweden to join NATO, and confirmed the first Black woman, Ketanji Brown Jackson, as a justice to the U.S. Supreme Court.

This is the longest theres ever been an evenly divided Senate, and it is a real tribute to leader Schumer that he has managed to corral all 50 Democrats behind a legislative agenda, said Sen. Chris Coons, the Delaware Democrat.

Remember, any one of those would have been the biggest bill passed in the Congress. Oh, didnt we do a huge bipartisan infrastructure bill last year? That was the biggest in a generation? And before that the American Rescue Plan? Yes, we did.

Unlike previous highly productive sessions of Congress, Schumer does not enjoy the big majorities typically required to get work done. The filibuster tradition, with its 60-vote threshold to advance most measures, is a powerful tool wielded by McConnell and Republicans (and Democrats, when they are the minority party) that can block almost any initiative.

With zero room for error, Schumer has relied on a vital skill  talking

When he first became Democratic leader, in the minority then, he famously expanded his leadership team to include almost half the caucus, ensuring all segments  from Bernie Sanders on the left to Joe Manchin more to the right  had a seat at the table. His flip-phone has become such an integral part of his communication strategy that Schumer now holds it up as a prop, a reminder of how he works.

And then there are the dinners.

After Manchin abruptly walked away from talks with Biden over the partys original Build Back Better proposal, Schumer invited the West Virginia senator out to dinner.

I said look, Joe, we have to get something done here, Schumer recalled.

Over spaghetti and meatballs the day after Valentines Day at an Italian restaurant on Capitol Hill, Schumer got down to business.

And I said, Look, you have a lot of clout here. You proved youre willing to stop the whole thing. But I got to get 49 senators to vote on this. This cant just be what you want, Schumer told the former governor he had recruited to run for the Senate a decade ago. Theres got to be a compromise.

That willingness by Schumer to take the political bad with the good  in Manchins case, the coal-state senators insistence on policies for the oil and gas industry that liberals deplore  infuriates liberals and somewhat threatens Schumers hold on power.

Sanders lambasted the final package as insufficient, even as he voted for it, and Sanders fellow progressive Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, has been eyed as a powerful New York Democrat who could one day challenge Schumer in a primary election. There are several senators who could imagine themselves as the majority leader some day.

Schumers view: My job is to get things done.

Its very easy to be a Mitch McConnell, he said about the Republican who prided himself on sending to the graveyard bills from House Speaker Nancy Pelosis Democrats when he was majority leader.

Its easy to stop things, particularly in a Senate thats designed to stop things. Its hard to get things done.

Schumer has always wanted to be the leader of the Senate since his election more than 20 years ago. But even he was somewhat surprised when two Georgia Democrats, Rafael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, won their Jan. 5, 2021, special elections, tipping the majority.

At 4 a.m. on the morning of Jan. 6, Schumer got word of the final election night tallies. He was delivering a Senate speech as the presumptive leader just hours later when a Capitol police officer grabbed him by the shirt collar and pulled him from the floor.

Ushered to a secure location as the mob of rioters loyal to Trump stormed the Capitol, he and the other congressional leaders agreed to return to session that night, determined to finish certifying the presidential election and move on to the the work of the new Congress.
Throughout his career, Virgil Ortiz has pushed boundaries through art.

The Cochiti Pueblo artist is teaming up with Meow Wolf to create a permanent installation at House of Eternal Return in Santa Fe.

Ortiz is known as one of the most avant-garde artists of his time, fusing his Pueblo culture with sci-fi, fantasy and apocalyptic themes that yield provocative and futuristic imagery.

His installation is Sirens: Secret Passkeys & Portals and features a cast of characters from his Revolt 1680/2180 saga  an ongoing project Ortiz has been working on for the past two decades.

Revolt 1680/2180 is the vision of a dystopian future 500 years after the Pueblo Revolt in which time-travelers return to the era to aid their ancestors. They quickly gather the survivors and search for any remaining clay artifacts from the battlefields, realizing that challenges and persecution will continue, making the preservation of their clay, culture, language, and traditions from extinction imperative.

The freedom to touch, feel, take pictures, and explore an immersive installation opens up many possibilities, said Ortiz. It has challenged me to adapt to the idea of having people interact with the displays, decode patterns, listen to the soundtrack and wander around it all.

Oritz is one of three new installations planned, according to Meow Wolf.

The other is The Ancestral Crypt, by Squidlicker and until i see you again by Jacob Fisher.

According to Meow Wolf, the installations will be unveiled in the fall.

Squidlicker, also known as Lauren YS, is a Los Angeles-based artist whose work is influenced by dreams, mythology, death, comics, love, sex, psychedelia, animation and their Asian-American heritage.

The Ancestral Crypt will be in a two-story room accessed through a round portal from the exhibitions central forest.

Between every plane there is a liminal space  between yin and yang, body and soul, life and death, between the sacred and the profane, reality and surreality, past and future, male and female, said Squidlicker. This space is meant to act as a haven for fluidity: a temple to the liminal, to bring into materiality a space for that which defies absolution. An homage to the queer, to the nonbinary, to the shifting, monstrous and in-process.

Fisher is a New York-based artist and his large scale, site-specific installations have been exhibited nationally. His process, which he calls highly repetitive and obsessive allows for introspection and escape while creating works, a feeling he attempts to activate in his viewers. The interactive and accessible piecesviewers can walk in it, under it, around itcreate moments of interactivity, imagination, reflection and play with their contrasting forces of gravity, light and energy.

Fishers installation will be located in the depths of the exhibition space shrouding Space Sphere, the giant interstellar traveling ball.

As you enter the installation, shape, structure, color, detail, and light grasp your attention, said Fisher. The environment diverts your consciousness away from the comings and goings of the outside world, and towards sensation of the physical  the present moment. My hope is that, for a moment, in this odd beautiful world, you forget your efforts to order the chaos of the everyday. For a moment you are filled with tranquility.

Susan Garbett, general manager of the House of Eternal Return, said the permanent exhibition is constantly changing.

The new installations go beyond their respective rooms, adding the creative psyche of Virgil, Lauren and Jacob to the hundreds of works already displayed. The intention and experience of the entire space evolves with every new brushstroke, every new sculpture, every new touch of an artists hand, Garbett said. In the case of Ortizs work, history serves as a powerful lens for examining ourselves creatively, changing course and improving how we value art and artists. Fishers work brings us the opportunity to find peace in the present, and Squidlickers installation is a space of deep ancestral acceptance of the liminal. All of these combine to make some of the most powerful experiences we have offered yet.
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  Khalid Emshadi spent much of this year knocking on doors as he campaigned for a seat in the state House.

Now he has halted public appearances and fears for his life.

Emshadi, 44, isnt alone in taking new steps to protect himself as police investigate the killings of four Muslim men in Albuquerque since November  including three in an 11-day span this summer.

But he said he feels particularly at risk as a Muslim man running for a public office. As with other candidates, his address and similar information is listed in public records.

Im a target right now, I feel, because Im running for office, Emshadi said in an interview Monday.

Emshadi, a Republican who works as an engineer, is running in the Nov. 8 election against Democratic Rep. Elizabeth Thomson in a district covering a chunk of the older Northeast Heights of Albuquerque.

The shootings have thrust Albuquerque into the national spotlight and been condemned by President Joe Biden.

As part of the investigation, police are asking the public for help finding a dark gray or silver four-door Volkswagen with tinted windows. It may be a Jetta or Passat, with some damage.

Officers havent said when or how investigators came to be interested in the vehicle. But a notice from the Albuquerque Police Department said the sedan may have been used as transportation in the homicides.

Emshadi is running in House District 24  a Democratic leaning district, covering neighborhoods along Wyoming and Eubank, between Comanche and Interstate 40.

Thomson, a physical therapist, has represented the district for about eight years, not all of them consecutive. She is chairwoman of the House Health and Human Services Committee.

Thomson said Monday that she hopes police catch the killer or killers soon so that Emshadi can resume campaigning however he chooses.

We have to support law enforcement and do everything we can to get this person or people caught, Thomson said. My prayers are with the four families and communities affected.

Emshadi  perhaps the only Muslim man running for a state office this year, according to New Mexicos major political parties  is a Libyan immigrant with five children. He came to the United States with his wife in 2008.

He has a doctorate in electrical engineering and is employed by a company that works with solar energy and space technology.

The citys crime rate, Emshadi said, is part of what motivated him to run after moving to Albuquerque last year.

He is now campaigning from home, he said, and limiting his trips outside the house.

Emshadi said he carries a handgun when he leaves and has his head on a swivel, constantly checking his surroundings for suspicious activity.

I have to protect myself, my kids, my community, he said.

Only one Muslim legislator has ever served in New Mexico  former Rep. Abbas Akhil, an Albuquerque Democrat who won election in 2018 but didnt run again in 2020.

This crime is not targeting or hurting only Muslims, Emshadi said. It hurts everybody in Albuquerque and the entire state.
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

A wildfire that killed an elderly couple and destroyed more than 200 homes near Ruidoso in April was caused by Public Service Company of New Mexicos failure to properly maintain vegetation near its power lines, according to a lawsuit filed by a California-based law firm.

The lawsuit filed Friday on behalf of Ruidoso property owners is the second such lawsuit filed this year alleging that PNM and a contractor negligently failed to prevent a tree from falling on utility lines, igniting the April 12 blaze.

Attorneys for the utility responded in July to the earlier lawsuit that a tall and healthy pine tree outside of PNMs right-of-way blew over in a strong wind, striking a power line and apparently igniting the fire.

PNM spokesman Ray Sandoval said Monday that the utility uses vegetation management and wildfire mitigation practices that comply with all applicable authorities. He also said that the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

A spokeswoman for the New Mexico Forestry Division, the agency investigating the McBride Fire, asked the Journal to submit an Inspection of Public Records Act request seeking information about the cause of the fire. The agency did not immediately respond to the request on Monday.

The new 2nd Judicial District Court suit was filed by Singleton Schreiber, a San Diego-based law firm, on behalf of the owners of 26 properties in the Ruidoso area damaged by the 6,159-acre fire. The suit seeks unspecified damages.

PNM failed to properly inspect and report hazardous vegetation around its power lines and failed to protect PNM facilities from tall, nearby pine trees, rooted in shallow soils, on a steep slope, the suit alleges.

PNMs failure to abide by state laws during repairs, construction and maintenance put the public at risk, said Vern Payne, a Los Lunas attorney for Singleton Schreiber who filed the lawsuit. Making matters worse, they were made aware of these dangerous conditions and their subsequent behavior actually contributed to the size and spread of this fire.

Powerful winds spread the McBride Fire quickly, destroying 207 primary residences and blackening more than 6,000 acres, including more than 4,500 acres in the Lincoln National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service has reported.

An elderly couple were killed April 12 when the fire destroyed their home at 569 Gavilan Canyon Road. Wind gusts up to 80 mph and extremely dry conditions contributed to the fires rapid spread and ferocity.

The earlier lawsuit, filed in April, is still pending in 2nd Judicial District Court. It was filed by three Texas residents who owned vacation trailers and related property destroyed by the fire at 530 Gavilan Canyon Road in Ruidoso.

Both suits also name as a defendant Trees Inc., a Houston-based company under contract with PNM to cull vegetation in PNM easements.

Trees Inc. officials did not immediately respond Monday to requests for comment.
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

State and University of New Mexico officials on Monday broke ground on a $43.3 million building that will house  and consolidate  the College of Population Health and College of Nursing.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, who spoke at the event, also announced a $15 million investment in nursing programs at higher education institutions across the state made possible through federal funds.

Both announcements came as a health care worker shortage plagues the country.

If these last 2 years have taught us anything, its that the health and well-being of our state and our Republic are directly linked to the health and well-being of our citizens, UNM President Garnett Stokes told a crowd of more than 70 on Monday. This new facility will help ensure we provide our health professionals with the resources they need to do more  and to do good.

Enrollment growth

The College of Nursing and Public Health Excellence building, just west of the UNM Hospital, is expected to help enrollment more than double over the next six years, UNM officials said.

The facility spans nearly 94,000 square feet and three floors. The building, which is expected to be completed in 2024, comes at a price tag of $43.3 million, according to the university. The general contractor of the project is Albuquerque-based Enterprise Builders. The architect of the building is Albuquerque-based Dekker/Perich/Sabatini.

A majority of the projects funding came from the state  $30 million was approved through a general obligation bond during the 2020 general election and another $2.5 million that was most recently approved during the legislative session this past spring. The university is covering the additional project costs.

The nursing program currently operates in about seven different buildings across the UNM campus and the College of Population Health doesnt have a central office. The two will finally find consolidation into one building, with the College of Population Health occupying about half of the first floor and the College of Nursing filling in the rest of the facility.

The lab corridor area of the building will be placed on the second floor where windows will allow passers-by to see some of the people in there conducting lab experiments, said Ryan Reynolds, group manager for capital projects at UNM Health Sciences.

The College of Nursing expects to increase enrollment to 328 students by 2024 and up to 432 students annually by 2028, UNM officials said. Currently, the nursing program enrolls a little more than 200 students a year.

We will also be better equipped to recruit and retain expert nursing faculty and to educate the next generation of students, UNM College of Nursing Dean Dr. Christine Kasper said.

Additional money

Lujan Grisham also announced $15 million in American Rescue Plan funds for more than a dozen higher education institutions across the state. The money has a focus on the recruiting of high school students into nursing programs, retaining nursing faculty, expanding clinical sites to rural communities and other initiatives to target the nursing shortage.

UNM and its satellite campuses are receiving about $3.5 million, New Mexico State University is set to receive a little more than $1.3 million and other schools  including Western New Mexico University and Northern New Mexico College  set to receive a share of the money as well.

The shortage of health care workers across the country is felt here in New Mexico, too, especially in the nursing category. According to a 2021 report from the New Mexico Health Care Workforce Committee, there were about 15,588 registered nurses and clinical nurse specialists in the state. About 6,223 more nurses are needed to hit benchmarks for the state based on population, according to the report.

A July report from the states Department of Workforce Solutions showed that there were more than 9,000 online job postings available for registered nurses.

New Mexico, like the rest of the country, is faced with a critical shortage of nurses, Lujan Grisham said. By investing in the states largest nursing program and providing additional resources to programs around New Mexico, we are going to see real progress toward meeting our goal of a healthy nursing workforce.
WASHINGTON  The FBIs unprecedented search of former President Donald Trumps Florida residence ricocheted around government, politics and a polarized country Tuesday along with questions as to why the Justice Department  notably cautious under Attorney General Merrick Garland  decided to take such a drastic step.

Answers werent quickly forthcoming.

Agents on Monday searched Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate, which is also a private club, as part of a federal investigation into whether the former president took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence, people familiar with the matter said. It marked a dramatic escalation of law enforcement scrutiny of Trump, who faces an array of inquiries tied to his conduct in the waning days of his administration.

From echoes of Watergate to the more immediate House probe of the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, Washington, a city used to sleepy Augusts, reeled from one speculative or accusatory headline to the next. Was the Justice Department politicized? What prompted it to seek authorization to search the estate for classified documents now, months after it was revealed that Trump had taken boxes of materials with him when he left the White House after losing the 2020 election?

Garland has not tipped his hand despite an outcry from some Democrats impatient over whether the department was even pursuing evidence that has surfaced in the Jan. 6 probe and other investigations and from Republicans who were swift to echo Trumps claims that he was the victim of political prosecution.

All Garland has said publicly is that no one is above the law.

A federal judge had to sign off on the warrant after establishing that FBI agents had shown probable cause before they could descend on Trumps shuttered-for-the-season home  he was in New York, a thousand or so miles away, at the time of the search.

Mondays search intensified the months-long probe into how classified documents ended up in boxes of White House records located at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year. A separate grand jury is investigating efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, and it all adds to potential legal peril for Trump as he lays the groundwork for a potential repeat run for the White House.

Trump and his allies quickly sought to cast the search as a weaponization of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep him from winning another term in 2024  though the Biden White House said it had no prior knowledge and current FBI Director Christopher Wray was appointed by Trump five years ago.

Trump, disclosing the search in a lengthy statement late Monday, asserted that agents had opened a safe at his home, and he described their work as an unannounced raid that he likened to prosecutorial misconduct.

Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search, including whether Garland had personally authorized it. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the West Wing first learned of the search from public media reports and the White House had not been briefed in the run-up or aftermath.

The Justice Department conducts investigations independently and we leave any law enforcement matters to them, she said. We are not involved.

About two dozen Trump supporters stood in protest at midmorning Tuesday in the Florida summer heat and sporadic light rain on a bridge near the former presidents residence. One held a sign reading Democrats are Fascists while others carried flags saying 2020 Was Rigged, Trump 2024 and Bidens name with an obscenity. Some cars honked in support as they passed.

Trumps Vice President Mike Pence, a potential 2024 rival, tweeted Tuesday, Yesterdays action undermines public confidence in our system of justice and Attorney General Garland must give a full accounting to the American people as to why this action was taken and he must do so immediately.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell echoed Pence, saying, Attorney General Garland and the Department of Justice should already have provided answers to the American people and must do so immediately.

The FBI director was appointed by Donald Trump, said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., when asked about GOP allegations that the raid showed the politicization of the Justice Department. She added, Facts and truth, facts and law, thats what its about.

Trump was meeting late Tuesday at his Bedminster, New Jersey, club with members of the Republican Study Committee, a group headed by Rep. Jim Banks of Indiana that says it is committed to putting forth his priorities in Congress.

The FBI reached out to the Secret Service shortly before serving a warrant, a third person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. Secret Service agents contacted the Justice Department and were able to validate the warrant before facilitating access to the estate, the person said.

The Justice Department has been investigating the potential mishandling of classified information since the National Archives and Records Administration said it had received from Mar-a-Lago 15 boxes of White House records, including documents containing classified information, earlier this year. The National Archives said Trump should have turned over that material upon leaving office, and it asked the Justice Department to investigate.

Christina Bobb, a lawyer for Trump, said in an interview that aired on Real Americas Voice on Tuesday that investigators said they were looking for classified information that they think should not have been removed from the White House, as well as presidential records.

There are multiple federal laws governing the handling of classified records and sensitive government documents, including statutes that make it a crime to remove such material and retain it at an unauthorized location. Though a search warrant does not necessarily mean criminal charges are near or even expected, federal officials looking to obtain one must first demonstrate to a judge that they have probable cause that a crime occurred.

Two people familiar with the matter, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, said the search Monday was related to the records probe. Agents were also looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at the estate.

Trump has previously maintained that presidential records were turned over in an ordinary and routine process. His son Eric said on Fox News on Monday night that he had spent the day with his father and that the search happened because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession.

Trump himself, in a social media post Monday night, called the search a weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024.

Trump took a different stance during the 2016 presidential campaign, frequently pointing to an FBI investigation into his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, over whether she mishandled classified information via a private email server she used as secretary of state. Then-FBI Director James Comey concluded that Clinton had sent and received classified information, but the FBI did not recommend criminal charges.

Trump lambasted that decision and then stepped up his criticism of the FBI as agents began investigating whether his campaign had colluded with Russia to tip the 2016 election. He fired Comey during that probe, and though he appointed Wray months later, he repeatedly criticized him, too, as president.

The probe is hardly the only legal headache confronting Trump. A separate investigation related to efforts by him and his allies to undo the results of the 2020 presidential election  which led to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol  has also been intensifying in Washington. Several former White House officials have received grand jury subpoenas.

And a district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia, is investigating whether Trump and his close associates sought to interfere in that states election, which was won by Democrat Joe Biden.

___

Associated Press writers Terry Spencer, Meg Kinnard, Michelle L. Price, Lisa Mascaro, Alan Fram, Darlene Superville and Will Weissert contributed to this report.
A shelter in place at Los Lunas Schools has been lifted, Los Lunas Schools Communications Specialist Sydney Olivas said. All students and staff are safe, she added.

Desert View Elementary, Valencia Middle School, Tome Elementary, Valencia Elementary and Valencia High School were under a shelter-in-place due to law enforcement activity in the area this morning, Los Lunas Schools Superintendent Arsenio Romero told the Valencia County News-Bulletin. La Merced Elementary in the Belen Consolidated School district was also on a shelter in place, the News-Bulletin reported.

Olivas said the shelter-in-place had been in effect from approximately 9:20 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Tuesday. The shelter-in-place was in effect as a precaution, Olivas said.
Copyright  2022 Albuquerque Journal

Five days after Albuquerque investigators disclosed that they believed the recent killings of Muslim men around the city may be related, they took a suspect into custody.

Muhammad Syed, 51, from Afghanistan, was arrested late Monday night outside of Santa Rosa. He was heading east on Interstate 40, toward Texas.

At a news conference in Albuquerque on Tuesday afternoon, police announced that Syed is charged in two of the four recent homicides  that of Aftab Hussein on July 26 and Muhammad Afzaal Hussain on Aug. 1. They said bullet casings found at the two scenes were likely fired from the same gun  which was found as investigators executed a search warrant.

A criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court on Tuesday night revealed that the suspect had hidden behind a bush near where Aftab Hussein typically parked his car, waited for him to get home and then shot him multiple times through the bush. In Muhammad Afzaal Hussains case, the shooting was a drive-by while he was walking near his apartment.

Detectives are working with the 2nd Judicial District Attorneys Office to determine if Syed should be charged in the two other homicides  the Nov. 7 fatal shooting of Mohammad Ahmadi, 62, and the Aug. 5 fatal shooting of Naeem Hussain, 25. Investigators say he is the most likely person of interest or suspect in the case.

The crimes gained national and international attention, and a combined $30,000 reward was being offered for information that led to a suspects arrest and conviction. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris denounced the killings on Twitter, saying hate has no place in America.

And the citys Muslim community was deeply shaken and scared  with many saying they were staying home or leaving town, afraid that they could be the next target of what at first appeared to be a series of random attacks.

On Tuesday, investigators disclosed that, in fact, the evidence showed Syed knew the victims to some extent and an interpersonal conflict may have led to the shootings.

After he was arrested, Syed told investigators he has known Naeem Hussain since 2016 and recognized Aftab Hussein from parties in the community, according to the complaint. Detectives do not say if he knew Muhammad Afzaal Hussain.

He denied being involved in their deaths. Its not clear who his attorney will be.

Addressing questions about whether the conflict was due to tensions between members of different sects of Islam  Syed was reportedly a Sunni Muslim and his daughter reportedly married someone practicing Shia Islam  Deputy Cmdr. Kyle Hartsock said the motive for the shootings is still being fully explored.

We do have some information about those events taking place, Hartsock said. But were not really clear if that was the actual motive or if it was part of the motive, or if theres a bigger picture that were missing. So whats really important is were still investigating.

Hartsock said that, at this time, Syed is the only person facing charges. He said detectives interviewed his two sons and they have been released.

One of his sons told investigators he went with his father to a gun store in July, where they each bought an AK-47. He said that,on Aug. 1  the same day Muhammad Afzaal Hussain was killed  his father bought a scope for the gun.

When asked if he was with his father when he shot the four men, Syeds son said he knew about the shooting and that he did not shoot the victims in this case, according to the complaint.

District Attorney Raul Torrez said Syed could face additional charges as the investigation continues.

Were also working with our federal partners on the possibility of filing and pursuing federal charges at the same time if there is an appropriate federal statute, Torrez said, addressing the bulk of his comments specifically to Muhammad Afzaal Hussains brother who was sitting on the sidelines at the news conference.

Hundreds of tips

Tips that led to Syeds arrest came from within the Muslim community.

Hundreds of tips have come in at the very least that have been thoroughly reviewed and gone through, dozens of interviews took place, Hartsock said. We started to focus in on Mr. Syed and last night secured a search warrant for his residence near Gibson and Carlisle in Southeast Albuquerque. As we were getting ready to execute that search warrant, we saw him load into a vehicle  as a matter of fact, a vehicle we believe was used in the homicides that we put out on the poster  and we followed him.

New Mexico State Police, APD and the FBI stopped Syeds car outside of Santa Rosa, about 115 miles from his home, and he was taken into custody as a SWAT team executed a search warrant on the apartment he shared with his family.

Multiple firearms were recovered from that home that are continually being tested, Hartsock said. But, right now, we believe that at least one of them inside the home and one of them inside the car that was pulled over are matching to our two crime scenes on Rhode Island and Cornell.

When he was stopped, Syed told police he was going to Houston to find a new place to live for his family because of the recent violence against Muslims in Albuquerque, according to the complaint. All he had with him was clothing, shoes and a gun.

Police said they believe Syed came to New Mexico about five or six years ago. He told detectives he had been with the special forces in Afghanistan and fought against the Taliban.

Court documents show Syed had been arrested three times on misdemeanor battery charges, two of which involved domestic violence against his wife and son. Otherwise, his only other contacts with law enforcement were for traffic violations, although he was once arrested for resisting an officer during a traffic stop.

In 2017, Syed was charged with battery after his daughters boyfriend reported Syed, his son and wife found them in a car together, pulled him out and started punching and kicking him.

The boyfriend told police at that time that the family did not want them to be in a relationship. He did not say why.

That case was dismissed because the victim did not want to proceed.

In May 2018, Syed was arrested following a fight with his wife at the New Mexico Human Services Department office in Albuquerque. Syeds wife told police that it had been her first time driving and Syed began to curse, scream and yell as to why she is not a good driver and as to why she cannot learn quickly, according to a criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court.

Syeds wife said he pulled her hair and kicked her out of the car, and made her walk. Then, she said, when she got to the office an hour and a half later, he grabbed her by the hair and threw her to the ground. HSD staff corroborated the story and Syed was charged with battery against a household member. Those charges were later dismissed because the victim did not wish to proceed.

Later that year, Syed was arrested again, this time charged with aggravated battery, not causing great bodily harm.

In that case, Syeds son reported his father was hitting his mother and that his sister tried to restrain him, according to another criminal complaint filed in Metropolitan Court. Syeds son said that, when he got involved, his father struck him on the back of the head with a large metal slotted spoon, cutting him. He said his father routinely beat him and his mother, but she did not want to report it to police.

That case was dismissed because Syed complied with the prosecutions conditions.

Cooperation key

Tuesdays news conference was packed with political and law enforcement leaders who said over and over again that cooperation between multiple agencies was the key to the arrest. The FBI formed a task force of more than 100 investigators, intelligence analysts and other experts from many different federal agencies.

I stand with everyone here today feeling positive about the work of law enforcement officers about what happens when we are really clear about public safety and focusing on communities, particularly in this situation that we know were  and can be  at risk, said Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. This is the kind of work, this collaboration, that yields real results. This is law enforcement and all partners at their best  it is what the state and this community both deserve and should expect in any context.

U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury, who knew Muhammad Afzaal Hussain from when he worked on her campaign, addressed the national profile that these tragedies have garnered across the United States.

The terror has not only affected New Mexicos Muslim community, but all Muslim communities across the U.S., Stansbury said. Our communities have been bracing to respond to the potential of hate-driven crimes, and the impacts of Islamophobia and other racist acts that have impacted our communities for far too long.

Ahmad Assed, a defense attorney and president of the Islamic Center of New Mexico, thanked law enforcement on behalf of the Muslim community and said he had teared up with gratitude as he heard about their work.

We hope and pray that things are brought to a conclusion and theres closure for the families soon, Assed said. We respect, certainly, the criminal justice system and the presumption of innocence, and we understand that this is just the beginning.
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The first shipment of grain exported from Ukraine since the outbreak of the Russian-Ukraine crisis is now looking for a new buyer after the initial Lebanese buyer rejected it due to the delay in delivery, the Ukrainian embassy in Lebanon said on Monday.

"The initial buyer in Lebanon refused to receive the shipment due to the delay in delivery for more than 5 months. Therefore, the shipment supplier is now looking for another buyer who could be in Lebanon's Tripoli city, or in another country or port," the embassy said in a statement.

The Sierra Leone-flagged cargo ship Razoni, carrying 26,000 tons of corn, left the Ukrainian port of Odesa on Aug. 1 after a landmark U.N.-backed deal was signed by Turkiye, Russia, and Ukraine to unblock Ukrainian grain exports amid the conflict.

Ukraine is one of the biggest grain suppliers worldwide and the stuck in its grain exports has raised the threat of a global food crisis.
Happilo, the premium healthy snacking brand, today launched its social media campaign emphasizing the festive fervor of Raksha Bandhan - #KuchGiftBhiDeDeBhai. The campaign focuses on highlighting the mischievous bond shared between siblings and the tradition of tying rakhi to brothers and getting gifts in return.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Danny pandit (@dannyypandit)

As the day is wrapped around in festivities, most of us take over to social media to share beautiful pictures and messages for our siblings. However, the relationship between siblings is often mischievous albeit filled with affection and a protective spirit. Happilo has taken an interesting and quirky play on this mischievous bond through Bollywood. The brand has roped in popular social media influencers such as Danny Pandit, Harshita Gupta, and Aatman Desai. The influencers have created humorous content impersonating popular bollywood characters denying gifts to their sisters. The videos take a witty play on the customary practice of giving gifts to sisters, reflecting the brands messaging - #KuchGiftBhiDeDeBhai.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aatman Desai (@aatmeme.in)

Commenting on the campaign, Vikas D Nahar, Founder, and CEO, Happilo said, As a brand, not just are we a part of peoples everyday lives, but also their celebrations and special moments. Exchanging gifts is an important custom in Raksha Bandhan. This campaign underlines the value of this tradition and the playful bond between siblings, in an entertaining and light-hearted manner, adding a touch of Bollywood.

The Bangalore-based start-up is having a multiplier growth in its marketing and expansion of categories through multiple partnerships with popular entities. Earlier this year, the brand partnered with Rajasthan Royals team at the IPL. Happilo is also launching a series of products in an exclusive association with Disney & Marvel. Apart from the wide range of products on offer, Happilo also has curated special box of dry fruits which is available across its online and physical retail channels to enhance the experience.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tejas Deepak Deepti Gaikwad (@tejust_asach)

Founded in 2016, Happilo is an omnichannel healthy snack brand that provides customers an array of food products including seeds, dates, dried fruits, trail mixes, nuts, berries, etc. In less than 6 years of its operations, Happilo has created a niche for itself in a highly unorganized and cluttered sector.
Recent long-term field research undertaken by Sridhar Narayanan, professor at Stanford University, Anuj Kapoor, professor at IIM Ahmedabad, and Amitt Sharma, Founder and CEO at VDO.AI - debunks a widespread notion about matching advertisements to the content in which they are placed. Ayush Garg (Mathematics and Computing, IIT Delhi) and Vedang Asgaonkar (Computer Science, IIT Bombay) offered outstanding research assistance and contributed significantly to the study as members of the research team.

The conventional belief has typically been that it is advantageous to match ads and content for increased customer engagement. However, this study demonstrated that mismatched advertisements and content actually increase engagement within the advertising environment.

On the one hand, matching ads and content may result in increased engagement because consumers have emotional inertia; that is, they desire to prolong the sensation they are currently experiencing. If individuals are feeling pleasant after viewing some video material, they are more likely to respond positively to a positive advertisement. A phenomenon known as 'perceptual contrast' suggests that when a good commercial follows a not-so-happy video content or vice versa, it draws more attention from consumers, which in turn leads to more ad engagement. These contradictory predictions of two distinct theories imply that a research in the actual world was required to determine which of these is dominant and which type of ad targeting is more effective: matched or mismatched advertisements.

The researcher conducted just this. On the VDO.AI platform, they conducted a large-scale advertising experiment in which customers were randomly allocated distinct circumstances of positive and negative content videos followed by the corresponding video commercials. Randomization assured that discrepancies in ad interaction between consumer groups may be attributed to the matching or mismatching of advertisements and content.

The primary finding of this study was that mismatched advertisements improved ad engagement. This effect was both statistically and economically significant. Contributing to the advertising literature, this crucial result offers a novel viewpoint on the AdTech business and provides organizations with an essential targeting variable. Brands may use this discovery to produce more effective advertising campaigns, as the need for advertising strategies that align with customers' emotions is on the rise.

Here is what the researchers of the experiment have to say 

Professor of Stanford, Sridhar Narayanan, "I am very excited about this experiment, since it is one of the first large-scale experiments in the video advertising context, and specifically on what is called non-personalized targeting of ads. There has been quite a bit of work on personalization  where we target ads to individuals based on their characteristics and preferences. There has been more limited research on targeting ads based on contextual factors, and even less on emotions. The scale of the experiment, the fact that we were able to randomize not just the ads but also the content videos shown to consumers allow us to make powerful claims about the effect of matched or mismatched ads and content. I am also very happy about the partnership with VDO.AI on this project  the degree of genuine scientific curiosity shown by Amitt and his team, and a desire to learn so as to constantly improve the business model is rare and refreshing.

Professor of IIM Ahmedabad, Anuj Kapoor, "Video ads deserve a lot more careful and rigorous attention, especially on issues related to measurement, content and the context in which they are played. This experiment is a first step towards combining video ads micro-data with economics, machine learning, and statistics tools and interpreting it through the lens of social science frameworks to answer strategic questions of interest to vdo.ai and the video advertising industry as a whole.

Amitt Sharma, Founder & CEO at VDO.AI, VDO.AI's mission to reinvent the video advertising environment has always resulted in revolutionary products and services for the industry. This research paper was also undertaken to assist the AdTech sector in developing campaigns with greater consumer impact. Multiple tests have led us to the conclusion that a mismatch between the ad and content video increases customer engagement. We are confident that this study report will contribute to our collective advertising industry expertise.

In addition, the research demonstrates that video advertising is an extremely effective kind of digital advertising, primarily because videos may evoke human emotions more than any other type of content. Since customers are susceptible to video advertisements, they are able to readily attract user attention and drive greater interaction when strategically positioned. Allowing for a high degree of targeting and subsequent tracking, the video advertising market is expected to reach $81.9 billion in 2021.
Maia has been appointed as the GCC PR representative by DayAway. DayAway, with offices in Hongkong, Singapore, and Morocco, offers opportunities for guests to search for and book online daytime experiences at hotels. DayAway will be supported by Maia for its communications strategy and execution after launch and for its UAE launch.

Maia is a communications consultancy which specialises in brands, luxury hospitality and dining.

CEO and founder of DayAway Martha Walsen said about the partnership: Extending to the United Arab Emirates is a significant landmark for DayAway, where our aspirations are to captivate the community with our focused experiences. It becomes very important in having a partner who comprehends our brand, the local culture as well as the rapidly changing environment, in which a travel tech brand operates. Maia holds an exceptional image in the hospitality sector besides having the modernized point of view and perception that is required by us. We look forward to undertaking thrilling opportunities with them, that will align with this market.

Shadi Moazami said: It is very satisfactory to initiate our work with DayAway. We look forward to the chance to learn new things and evolve along with our clients. DayAway already has the reputation of disrupting the hospitality industries in several other markets and it fills us with pride that we can offer assistance to the DayAway team in disrupting the markets in UAE. It is the right partnership for us, with the rapidly evolving portfolio of luxury hospitality brands as well as a creative inspiration to approach things uniquely.
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Mongolian Prime Minister and Chairman of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP) Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene met with Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday.

Asking Wang to convey his sincere greetings to Chinese leaders, Oyun-Erdene thanked China for providing Mongolia with vaccines and anti-pandemic supplies and helping Mongolia protect the health and well-being of its people, which fully proved that "a friend in need is a friend indeed."

The Mongolian side takes neighboring countries as priorities in its foreign policy, regards China as a good neighbor that is more valuable than gold, and looks forward to deepening synergy of development strategies with China so as to accelerate cooperation in various fields between the two countries.

Noting that the MPP has just celebrated its centenary, Oyun-Erdene wished the upcoming 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) a complete success, and hoped to strengthen exchanges with the CPC at a new starting point and learn from the experience of governing the country and the party.

Oyun-Erdene emphasized that Mongolia firmly believes that any country's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and independent choice of development path should be respected.

He also stressed that Mongolia firmly supports the one-China principle, and opposes interference by external forces in China's internal affairs such as issues related to Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang and Hong Kong.

China is a responsible major country and represents the future of Asia, he said, adding that China's development is in line with the common interests of Asian countries.

Mongolia firmly supports China, a friendly neighbor, in its further development, and hopes to achieve common development and prosperity with China, he added.

Wang conveyed Chinese leaders' cordial greetings to Oyun-Erdene, saying that China and Mongolia are linked by mountains and waters, and the only right choice for both sides is peace and friendship, mutual benefit and win-win, as well as mutual understanding and support.

China appreciates Mongolia's firm adherence to the one-China principle and its support for China to safeguard its core interests, Wang said.

China also respects Mongolia's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and supports the country in choosing a development path that suits its own national conditions in accordance with the aspirations of the Mongolian people, as well as in facilitating a stable governance and focusing on development, he added.

Wang said that China has always pursued a good-neighborliness policy and friendship featuring amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, always been accommodating the comfort of its neighbors and willing to share China's development opportunities.

China places the promotion of China-Mongolia friendly cooperation at an important position in its neighborhood diplomacy, Wang said, adding that no matter how China develops in the future, this policy will not change.

Citing an old saying that when brothers are of the same mind, they can cut through metal, Wang said the Chinese side is willing to work with Mongolia to deepen the three alignments between China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolia's Prairie Road development strategy, the Global Development Initiative and Mongolia's New Revival Policy, and China's "two-stage" strategic plan and Mongolia's long-term development policy, so as to create three engines for further development of bilateral relations and inject strong impetus into mutually beneficial and friendly cooperation between the two countries.

The two sides also had an in-depth exchange of views on governance and development experience and future plans for practical cooperation. They agreed that the two countries should maintain high-level exchanges and inter-party exchanges, and be committed to building great enterprise of century-old parties and speed up their respective development and revitalization.

In addition, the two sides agreed to promote the construction of ports and passages, improve the efficiency of customs clearance, build up major demonstration projects in fields of infrastructure and energy, and strengthen youth exchanges and local cooperation.

Wang also said that China and Mongolia enjoy high economic complementarity, and China is ready to help Mongolia transform its resource endowments into development advantages and tangible development achievements.
Swiggy, Indias leading on demand delivery platform has announced a Big Birthday Bash to commemorate its eighth birthday starting August 16 till September 4, 2022. This year, Swiggy plans to celebrate the special occasion with its customers through the biggest integrated cross-category celebration spanning across food delivery, Instamart, and a series of offline events across various cities.

Swiggy customers across India can avail online offers on food from over 1 lakh restaurants and attractive prices and promotions on 1,000+ products across grocery and daily essential brands on Instamart.

Birthday celebrations with exciting Online offers on Swiggy

Food Delivery: Starting August 16, users can enjoy flat prices on the entire menu and flat discounts on their favorite dishes from over 1 Lakh participating restaurants such as Burger king, Oven Story pizza, Pizza Hut, Faasos, NIC Natural Ice creams, Wow Momos, Freshmenu and many more.



Swiggy Instamart: Customers can avail great deals with up to 40% off on 1,000+ products across brands like Dove, Kelloggs, Nivea, Thumbs Up, Pepsi, Good Day and Cadbury among others.

Alliance Partners: Customers can avail additional discounts and cashback from digital wallets and banking partners such as Paytm, RuPay, Credpay, Amazon Pay, OneCard and ICICI Bank.

Speaking on the Big Birthday Bash Anuj Rathi  SVP, Revenue and Growth at Swiggy, said, For this years Big Birthday Bash, along with delightful offers across food and Instamart, were taking the celebrations offline for the very first time. Customers can experience our curated food festivals and comedy nights happening across twelve cities in India. Swiggy One members will enjoy a host of benefits including special access, priority seating and meet and greet with artists at these events.

Swiggys Big Birthday Bash goes offline with food festivals, music, and comedy nights - starting August 20 to Aug 28, 2022

This year Swiggy is taking the celebration offline with SteppinOut for both Swiggy and non-Swiggy customers. Customers can experience Swiggys first ever offline event The Big Birthday Bash across three cities- Bangalore (20th Aug), Chennai (27th Aug) and Kolkata (28th Aug). With a perfect concoction of food, music and people; these curated food festivals will feature 35+ food brands, an envious line-up of musicians, games, dedicated recreational zones, and a lot of birthday cheer.

To spread the cheer of celebration further, Swiggy is hosting multi-city comedy nights with Indias leading stand-up comedians such as Gaurav Kapoor, Sorabh Pant, Yash Rathi and Gaurav Gupta.

Swiggy ONE users can avail additional benefits at comedy night events including meet and greet with artists, priority seating and exclusive lounge access at the food festivals. Tickets for on-ground events are available on the Dineout app, Insider and Bookmyshow.
Independent integrated digital marketing agency White Rivers Media (WRM), headquartered in Mumbai, celebrated its 10-year anniversary on 7th August.

WRM took a pit stop and looked back with gratitude for the journey so far and geared up for the future with a vision to create more impact and recognition on the global stage.

The agency that started with a team of 3 is today a family of over 350+ creative individuals. It has been on a hot streak of impactful, exciting results through its branding, strategy planning, and successful digital media campaigns. From working closely with the likes of Netflix amongst others to working with the world's leading influencers like Khaby Lame for his first-ever campaign in India, WRMs journey has been a creative adventure.

Shrenik Gandhi, Co-founder and CEO, White Rivers Media, said, The 10-year milestone is good, but the 10-year journey was fantastic. The decade was full of compassion, creativity, and hard work. We are grateful to all our stakeholders who have been instrumental in this journey.

In line with its vision of expansion, the agency also announced the opening of its second Mumbai office Delta in Goregaon for clients, partners, and talent in the city's western suburbs.

"After working on various industry-first campaigns and leading MarTech in the creative space to international influencer collaborations, we are now geared up to create more impact on a global scale," said Mitesh Kothari, Co-founder and CCO, White Rivers Media.
By Christina Waldman

In the past weeks, Prof Dorit Reiss of Hastings law school in San Francisco has been bombarding the blogs with many hundreds of comments in relation Katie Courics broadcast on HPV vaccine - likely in excess of a thousand.



(KatieCouric.com: Rosie Perez



Katie Couric.com: What Are Your Thoughts on Gardasil



KatieCouric.com: Conversation Continued



HuffPo: Furthering Conversation)



So many, in fact, that it is hard to imagine how it could not interfere with her normal professional routine. Whether or not Reiss has been able to perform her normal professional tasks during this period there is an issue of whether her advocacy may be conflicted by the sponsorship and institutional affiliations of her employer, examined here by Christina Waldman.

In an exchange a few days ago (Dec 8) between University of California (UC) Hastings Associate Law Professor Dorit Reiss and "Vince Brown" on KatieCouric.com, Brown accuses Reiss of being paid to post in favor of vaccines. Reiss replies: "Not really. My lawschool [sic] would pay me the same salary whether or not I post here." Brown persisted, and Reiss confirmed, I am sorry you had trouble understanding my comment. No, no one is paying me to post here.

Be that as it may, the institutional activities of Hastings have latterly become bound up in partnerships between UCSF/UC Hastings and Kaiser Permanente, the largest managed health care organization in the US , the head office of which is just across San Francisco bay in Oakland.

According to Wiki:

UCSF is administered separately from Hastings College of Law, another UC institution located in San Francisco. In recent years, UCSF and UC Hastings have increased their collaboration, including the formation of the UCSF/Hastings Consortium on Law, Science, and Health Policy.

The Consortium offers impressive opportunities for students in education, research, and clinical studies, including internships/externships with Kaiser Permanente and others. (8/28/13 press release). (Paper by Consortium members, Price Transparency in the Health Care Market)

A November 14, 2013 press release announced a new center for the study of uses for the human genome, a joint endeavor of Kaiser Permanente, UC San Francisco and UC Hastings College of Law. To this end, the National Human Genome Research Institute provided $778,000.

One of the papers most frequently cited by Reiss in her defense of HPV and Gardasil vaccine was conducted by Kaiser Permanente or behalf of Merck:

Author Affiliations: Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center, Oakland (Dr Klein, Messrs Hansen, Emery, and Lewis, and Ms Deosaransingh), Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena (Drs Chao and Jacobsen, Messrs Slezak and Takhar, and Ms Sy), Department of Pediatrics, South Bay Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Los Angeles (Dr Ackerson), and Pharmacy Analytical Service, Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Downey (Dr Cheetham); and Department of Epidemiology, Merck Sharp and Dohme, Whitehouse Station, New Jersey(Drs Velicer and Liaw).

Financial Disclosure: This study was funded by Merck & Co. Dr Klein receives research support from Merck & Co, GlaxoSmithKline, Pfizer, Novartis, and sanofipasteur for unrelated studies. Dr Jacobsen and Mr Slezak received research funding from Merck & Co for another study related to HPV4. Mr Slezak served as an unpaid consultant to Merck & Co. Dr Chao received research funding from Merck&Co, Amgen, and Pfizer for unrelated studies. Drs Velicer and Liaw are employees of Merck & Co.

Role of the Sponsor: The study sponsor, Merck & Co, provided substantial input into the study design and analytic plan. In collaboration with the Kaiser Study Team, the sponsor reviewed data analyses and helped draft and revise the manuscript. The Kaiser Study Team investigators made final decisions regarding manuscript edits.

Kaiser Permanente is a self-proclaimed national leader in vaccine research through its Vaccine Center Study and Division of Research, including much Gardasil-related research.

The CDC and Kaiser Permanente work together closely on a multitude of projects. (Morgellons and

Diabetes.)

Money flows from the CDC Foundation to Kaiser, and also from Kaiser back to the CDC Foundation.
Two researchers from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore have received prestigious honors from the Mali government in recognition of their efforts to develop and distribute vaccines to children in that country who are vulnerable to numerous infectious diseases common in Africa. The awards were presented at a special ceremony in Mali in June on behalf of the President of Mali, His Excellency Amadou Toumani ToureIn 2000, the Ministry of Health of Mali and the University of Maryland School of Medicine signed a formal agreement to establish the CVD-Mali to provide laboratory space and resources for CVD researchers working in the country and to train Malian scientists and physicians.

This recalls the Serum Institute of India's MenAfriVac meningococcal vaccine developed as part of the PATH Partnership for Global Health in cooperation with the WHO, Unicef, GAVI, the University of Maryland and private industry (GSK, etc.) which was used in the deadly, forced trials organized by the Gates Foundation in Chad, itself a nest of US military activity . Years earlier, in 2002, the University of Maryland School of Medicine website reported the schools abiding vaccine alliance with Mali and the Gates Foundation:

The trials in Bamako are being supervised by the vaccine research centre of the medical school of the University of Maryland in the United States and Mali's health ministry, Kone said.

The fact that medical philanthropy often tiptoes in prior to invasions for resources might demonstrate, at least in part, how in the world this could have happened. In order to avoid exaggerating associations between events through blatant examples like Ebola outbreaks and the US boots on the ground that followed, and because sometimes, as Turse puts it, to see the big picture you need to focus on the smallest part of it, I raked over several seemingly random news items for countries which are mostly obscure to Westerners such as Mali. Most dont even know where Mali is much less the countrys history or what the US is currently doing there. But the stories I ran across took a certain shape: the a rash of experimental trials for Ebola, HPV , rotavirus and other vaccines and the Gates Foundations involvement; a US-facilitated coup detat in 2012 and finally an industry-centric view of civil disorder as an impediment to oil and gas exploration in that country.

Heres a question for you: Can a military tiptoe onto a continent? It seems the unlikeliest of images, and yet its a reasonable enough description of what the U.S. military has been doing ever since the Pentagon created an Africa Command (AFRICOM) in 2007. Its been slipping, sneaking, creeping into Africa, deploying ever more forces in ever more ways doing ever more things at ever more facilities in ever more countries -- and in a fashion so quiet, so covert, that just about no American has any idea this is going on. One day, when an already destabilizing Africa explodes into various forms of violence, the U.S. military will be in the middle of it and Americans will suddenly wonder how in the world this could have happened.

For instance, the map illustration from the lead article in this series simply compared GAVI target countries with oil operations and US military expansion using a map provided by Tom Dispatch from an article by Nick Turse, AFRICOMs Gigantic Small Footprint :

In looking at the pattern of global philanthropy in the buildup towards Western intervention in resource-rich nations around the world, connections cant be forced. The substantiations are often hidden in closed door meetings and on the ground among populations the media, largely controlled by those pushing particular agendas, mostly ignores. But even so, certain patterns emerge in the shadows.

No colonial power is going to succeed unless its going to play on existing divisions, and sharpen them, increase them, exacerbate them. ~Mahmood Mamdani, Uganda Rising

Since then, with funding from a $20 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the CVD and CVD-Mali have worked to develop a measles vaccine to immunize infants in developing countries who are too young to receive the currently licensed measles vaccine. That candidate vaccine has shown highly promising results in animal models. A field site in Mali has been established and a Malian clinical trials team has been trained to carry out phase 1 and phase 2 clinical trials of the new vaccine.

In April 2005, the CVD received an additional grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for $3.6 million to study the impact of vaccinating children in Mali against the disease-causing bacterium Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib),

The University of Maryland has a long history of joint projects with USAIDwhich, as mentioned in Part 6, is known to front for the CIA and, as mentioned in Part 7, partnered with the Gates Foundation to foist genetically modified tech on African nations that dont welcome it. The projects include CARPE, or Central Africa Regional Program for the Environment as well as a contract to explore promising candidate vaccine for Malian children, including the Clinical Research and Trial Preparation Site in Endemic Areas Initiative. On the face of, theres nothing wrong offering aid to better a countys public health system, though predictably there are ethical problems with implementing vaccines in the rural sites in Mali targeted for trials. From the study, Problems in comprehension of informed consent in rural and peri-urban Mali, West Africa:

RESULTS: Participants had difficulty comprehending several concepts relevant to informed consent: 90% of respondents did not understand withdrawal criterion, 93% did not understand the existence of study side effects, and 74% did not understand that they were enrolled in an investigation as opposed to receiving therapy. The response rate and percentage of correct answers was generally much higher in the village nearer an urban center than the more rural village. The percent of correct answers exceeded 50% for five questions in the urban village and for only two question in the more rural setting.

Problems with medical aid ethics are predictable in particular when foreign aid fronts for separate agendas. In an article originally published by Foreign Policy Magazinein March, 2012, Joshua Keating reports the Malian coup detat led by US-trained Captain Sanogo:

On March 22 [2012, Captain Amadou Haya Sanogo]and a renegade group of officers calling themselves the National Committee for the Reestablishment of Democracy and the Restoration of the State overthrew the government of President Amadou Toumani Toure U.S. military officials have acknowledged that Sanogo "participated in several U.S.-funded International Military Education and Training (IMET) programs in the United States, including basic officer training," though it's not yet clear which courses he took. He has affirmed receiving U.S. training in several interviews, but has declined to elaborate.

It turns out that Malis former President Amadou Toumani Toure, though he encouraged Western investment and technology such as vaccination, could not stop civil unrest that threatened transnational oil and uranium operations in Mali. From a 2012 Guardian article titled Coup Threatens to Plunge Mali Back Into Darkness of Dictatorship:

This military coup was born out of the deep anger at the way in which the ousted president, Amadou Toumani Toure, had been conducting the war against a Tuareg-led insurgency in the north of the country. Stories of soldiers being sent to the front without the necessary weaponry and almost starving to death out in the vastness of the Sahara, a place as alien and distant to them as Siberia is to a Muscovite, had turned public opinion against him.

Popular anger was exacerbated by a series of ignominious defeats in recent weeks, especially the loss of a crucial strategic base near the desert town of Tessalit that gave the insurgents complete control of most of the north of the country, bar the major towns of Timbuktu, Gao and Kidal

The international community had long been prepared to back the Toure regime despite the numerous accusations of corruption, involvement in cocaine smuggling and lack of resolve in its fight against Islamic terrorism that had dogged it in the last few years

So, as it happens, Toure had to go. Apparently familiarity bred Western contempt and at least some of that familiarity was forged through aid given to the country under Toures administration. A 2013 article for the website OilPrice.net which revels in the language and rationales of the biofuel industry (moral outrage at theocracy, Sharia law and the human rights abuses of Islamic militants, etc.) clumsily exposes the transnational profit orgy arising from the disaster of post-colonialism:

Mali and oil are as complex as it can get. Though mineral rich, the landlocked country has no- established- oil or gas reserves worth commercial exploitation. Still, the 'unexplored' aspect of the country lends it gravitas as the potential for oil and gas is very promising and could well be a game changer The present conflict began in the summer of last year [the conflict actually began in January, 2012]with the Tuaregs fighting for an independent country in Northern Mali. It gained traction later on with many Islamic militants joining forces to establish a country governed by sharia laws. In fact, the militants do not want to stop with Mali, but are ambitious for a sprawling Islamic Caliphate. Imposing severe Islamic standards the militants severed communication lines and imposed severe punishments for disobedience, interpreting Islamic laws suiting their needs. Should the world have remained mute to the human rights violations in Northern Mali? Don't forget, there were [sic] enriched Uranium nearby. France depends on oil and uranium from neighbouring Nigeria and couldn't possibly tolerate Mali to become another Afghanistan. Moreover France and Mali have had a defence agreement in place for years.

Also, after have its military deployed in Afghanistan for over a decade France understandably will do whatever it takes to prevent another Afghanistan to be created within a 2 hour flight. When Malian president requested help from its former colonial master, France obliged, stressing it would be under the UN mandate. And so the French intervened. (And, thanks to the presence of Canadian oil companies in Mali, Canada was one of the first countries to lend a helping hand France.) Further, on January 16, a gas facility in Algeria was attacked by militants. After four days, more than forty oil workers, mainly foreigners, were killed. Allegedly, the militants were the ones fighting previously in Northern Mali.

And guess what: the oil-rich Taoudeni Basin is located at the north, the area seized by islamists. Neo-colonial agenda or not, the fact is that Timbuktu has been wrestled back.

How did the militarized profit orgy work out for those worrisome human rights issues that OilPrice.net mentions? From Human Rights Watch International:

Soldiers loyal to Malis coup leader have forcibly disappeared at least 20 soldiers allegedly linked to an April 30, 2012 counter-coup, and committed torture and other abuses against dozens of others Witnesses told Human Rights Watch that the abuses were committed by members of the security services, including soldiers, policemen, and national guardsmen who have supported Sanogo since the March 22 coup.

Immediately following the coup, US Special Forces were wreaking havoc and engaging in not-so-proverbial orgies all over Mali.

Things that occasionally come dimly to light in the shadowy media coverage of Africa create what appears to be a less than random pattern that repeats itself over and over again, from country to oil-targeted country around the globe.





Gates sponsored malaria vaccination campaign, Venezuela. Photo credit: Kike Arnal

Venezuela

In 2011, the World Justice Project, a global policy think tank pronounced that Venezuela ranked the worst on the organizations Rule of Law Index, reporting that,

Venezuela ranks relatively well in terms of religious freedom (ranking 15th), accessibility of the civil courts (ranking 21st), and protection of labor rights (ranking 27th). However, it is the worst performer in the world in accountability and effective checks on executive power. Corruption appears to be

widespread (ranking 54th), crime and violence are common (ranking 66th), government institutions are non-transparent, and the criminal justice system is ineffective and subject to political influence (ranking 66th). The country also displays serious flaws in guaranteeing respect for fundamental rights, in particular, freedom of opinion and expression, and the right to privacy. On the other hand, while the property rights of companies are generally weak, the property rights of ordinary people appear to receive significantly better protection.

Curiously Venezuela didnt make the cut for worst on another, older justice index which lists the most oppressive and opaquely governed countries on the planet such as Belarus, where all nine opposition candidates were arrested after an election; Burma, where the military junta rules by decree and owns all newspapers; Chad, which has never had a fair or free election and which only recently abolished prison sentences for journalists who insult the president; China, where human rights lawyers are routinely disappeared and which is not an electoral democracy; and North Korea, also not exactly an electoral democracy. The circumstances are more or less similar for the rest Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Somalia, Sudan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, etc.

Meanwhile, Venezuelas leading newspaper, El Universal, reported the Rule of Law Indexs findings without comment other than to say that the World Justice Project is sponsored by the Gates Foundation. The World Justice Project is also sponsored by weapons makers Boeing and General Electric, Intel, Microsoft, Viacom , Carnegie Corporation of New York and the Ford Foundation among others, most of which are tied to the infamous corporate bill mill, the American Legislative Exchange Council. Other members of ALEC includes nearly all the oil companies forced into joint ventures when Venezuelas late President Hugo Chavez nationalized the countrys oil: ExxonMobil, ChevronTexaco, Statoil, ConocoPhillips, and British Petroleum were forced to grant Venezuelas national oil company, Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A.(PDVSA), a minimum 60% stake. The latter might have something to do with the Rule of Law Indexs issue with the property rights of companies in Venezuela.

The Rule of Law indexs analysis of Venezuela happened to overlap a US media campaign to promote Chavezs opposition, namely Leopoldo Lopez, touted in the New York Times as the descendant of the countrys founder, Simon Bolivar: an aristocratic, Harvard-educated economist who is a descendant of the liberators sister, Juana. Lopez is currently charged with having led the violent exit plan resistance that sparked six months of armed barricade protests that allegedly led to 43 deaths and Lopezs suspected sponsorship of a conspiracy involving party ally Antonio Ledezma and close associate Columbian paramilitary leader Lorrent Saleh to bomb bridges, public buildings and carry out assassinations against leftist political leaders. Both Ledezma and Lopez await trial at the Ramo Verde military prison outside Caracas. Also under investigation are the trios ties to former Columbian President Alvaro Uribe, currently under investigation by Columbias Supreme Court for drug trafficking, corruption and mass murder. Uribe, a guest of honor and popular neoliberal speaker for US corporations and conservative think-tanks, visiting scholar at Georgetown University and member of the board of directors of Rupert Murdochs News Corporation, has been tied to death squads co-sponsored by Drummond Coal, Chiquita Banana and Coca-Cola. International human rights organizations have called for Lopezs release pending trial.

But other than omitting particulars, the indexs analysis isnt incorrect. Crime was soaring in Venezuela, the country was overrun with rapacious Cuban officials, the criminal justice system was as corrupt as it had ever being during the former oligarchy, and government opponents were often imprisoned in chaotic circumstances. Chavez (and NicolasMaduro after him) had been accused of pocketing vast sums from public coffers and making disastrous populist decisions, such as showing leniency to criminal gangs that held feudal rule over districts throughout the country. But Chavez was nevertheless democratically elected and the countrys media is still largely owned by members of the former oligarchy. The issue of crushing poverty under the oligarchy has reportedly improved by 80%. Several criminal gangs were recently disbanded for facilitating the oppositions scheme to destabilize currency in the wake of the failed, allegedly US-backed attempted coup detat against Chavez in 2002.

Its also interesting that following a rash of vaccine and public health philanthropy in Latin America and the Caribbean, Venezuelas current President Maduro accused right-wing opponents of fomenting another coup with US support in the oil-rich country following President Obamas executive order declaring Venezuela a threat to national security, a charge repudiated by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in what it called an application of unilateral coercive measures that are contrary to international law.

Aside from denouncing vaccine safety critics as child killers and investing in a fracking corporation, in 2011, Bill Gates celebrated the development of the new malaria shot in conjunction with GlaxoSmithKline. In 2010, the US and Venezuela both refused to exchange ambassadors following accusations that the 2002 coup against Chavez had been supported by the US. The year before, launched the Amazon Malaria Initiative was launched by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), an agency cited as a major implementer of neoliberal privatization schemes around the world and, again, a front for the CIA.

Relations with Venezuela have been strained since, but by 2012, the experimental malaria vaccine was being used for the Yanomami, presumably to address a deadly epidemic of malaria.

In 2010, it was widely reported that malaria had wiped out three Yanomami villages in the Amazonian rain forest. It was claimed malaria was brought in by illegal gold miners. The problem with the story is that malaria is endemic to the Amazon, not communicable between humans and indigenous people may be the least susceptible due to generational exposure. Though survivors were said to be infected with malaria , the report was unclear whether these survivors were effectively sickened by the disease or whether the disease in fact caused the majority of deaths. The counter argument has been that the miners brought in a new strain, were bitten by mosquitoes which then spread the disease to members of the tribe.

A regional health official, Dr. Carlos Botto, said the initial accounts and tests have shown there was some type of epidemic and evidence of malaria. But he said the number of deaths remained unclear and further tests were needed to determine if other diseases could be involved. He said other officials were analyzing results of the five-day medical mission.

Whats certain is that there was an epidemic with deaths, Botto said in a telephone interview. He said the number of deaths reported by those in the communities was just an estimate

Ive never seen it like this, said Shatiwe Luis Ahiwei, another Yanomami health worker who assisted in the medical mission and said about 100 more malaria cases had been identified in the area, more than half of them the deadly falciparum strain. The sick have had symptoms including high fever, shivering, vomiting and bloody diarrhea

Isolation has left the Yanomami vulnerable to many illnesses such as measles, yellow fever and hepatitis that have been spread by outsiders.

Indigenous rights activist Christina Haverkamp said that the government response has been slow and inadequate, and that doctors need access to helicopters to reach people in other areas where similar situations have been reported.

Many Yanomami are dying and need help, said Haverkamp, a German who runs the organization Yanomami-Hilfe and has worked among the Yanomami for two decades in Venezuela and Brazil.

Malaria is common in the Yanomami region, and Haverkamp said she has caught it four times over the years. But she said she has never seen such a serious outbreak.

Its a catastrophe and also a scandal that they still dont  have it under control, she said.

Officials in President Hugo Chavezs government insist they have improved and expanded medical care through a program called the Yanomami Health Plan, investing in clinics and also training some of the Yanomami to be health workers for their own villages.

American missionaries belonging to the group New Tribes Mission used to aid sick villagers, but in 2005 Chavez expelled them, accusing them of conducting espionage.

With the missionaries, health care was better under control, at least in areas where they worked, Haverkamp said.

Nationwide, the Health Ministry says 39,658 malaria cases have been reported so far in 2010, an increase of about 42 percent compared to the same period last year. The report does not list fatalities.

Haverkamp suggested the spike in the mosquito-borne illness among the Yanomami may be due to an influx of malaria-infected Brazilian gold miners working in illegal camps near indigenous settlements, and she said the military should evict the miners.



The missionaries that Chavez expelled in 2005, the New Tribes Mission, were profiled a book by Norman Lewis, The Missionaries: God Against the Indians, that described the brutal tactics of certain global missionary groups as well as the casual understanding in Latin America that several fronted for military and industrial interests. New Tribes, whose missionary work in Venezuela stretched back to 1946, has been cited for violent conversion tactics in many countries or plying trust from indigenous leaders while scoping natural resources for various industries and maintaining ties to the CIA. From Fox News:

Anthropologists, military officials and others have accused the group of watching indigenous people die of malnutrition while living in luxurious camps, forcing communities to give up ancestral traditions and creating a sophisticated enclave of airstrips and settlements to exploit gold, quartz and even uranium deposits.

"This is not a problem that has developed in the Chavez government," said Alberto Muller, a retired general and ex-governor of the region who left office in 1985. "Since my time as governor, (the missionaries) have really alarmed me."

Since first establishing a presence in Venezuela in 1946, the group has repeatedly been investigated, though each time the controversy fizzled out.

Vice President Jose Vicente Rangel started calling New Tribes a security threat as early as 1981. Tomas Antonio Marino Blanco, a navy captain, recently revived claims first made in 1978 that New Tribes missionaries have helped U.S. defense contractors from Westinghouse conduct mineral prospecting.

The group denies the accusations and is seeking to meet directly with Chavez to discuss the issue. It also says it is willing to open its camps to government observers to quell suspicions.

As with Ebola speculations, how an outbreak occurred can distract from the effects of the remedy. As with the vaccine drive used in the Neptune Spear operation to kill Bin Laden, the Amazonian malaria vaccine drive brought up questions of agendas as well as safety. In the fine print of reports of the malaria vaccines success, the vaccine was 34.8% effective in reducing severe malaria for the combined age-group category and carried heavy risks. In a maneuver commonly used by the pharmaceutical companies to undercut perceived risks, the placebo" used to compare the malaria vaccine was a rabies vaccine known to cause neuroparalytic accidents. Normally, placebos used in double blind trials are supposed to be benign a saline shot or a sugar pillthough vaccine trials generally use non-inert, toxic placebos like aluminum that would produce their own side effects. But in this case, even when compared to a vaccine with particularly high risks for neurological adverse events, the malaria vaccine still proved more dangerous.

Whether the vaccine had been safe, effective and warranted or not, and regardless of the sincerity of various health workers who implement health programs in the Amazon, its unfortunately necessary to ask whether certain health campaigns in resource-rich regions which happen to be the targets of corporate hegemony might be cover for something else. As it happens, Yanomami-Hilfe, the organization mentioned by Fox News, is sponsored by the transnational Bayer AG and its tropical disease project, Innovative Vector Control Consortium, which is in turn co-sponsored by the Gates Foundation.

Bayer the original manufacturer of Ceresan, from which the mercury preservative in vaccines is derivedhas a long history of involvement with political conflict and human rights abuses going back to its activities under the Third Reich and, more recently, its investment in conflict mineralsnamely coltan from the Congo. The documentary Blood Coltan illustrates the trail of death and war thats raged around the coveted mineral since the US-backed assassination of Congos first Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba. Coltan, also known as tantalum, is used to produce cell phones, computer chips, weaponry and aircraft components. A 2003 UN report exposed corporationsincluding Bayerthat invest in Congolese coltan. Though Bayer sold its coltan-processing subsidiary H.C. Starck to the Carlyle Group in 2007, coltan may still be relevant to the issue at hand since Venezuelas announcement in 2012 that significant deposits of coltan have been discovered, making Venezuela one of only seven countries in the world with reserves of blue gold. The Carlyle Group owns and invests in private security and surveillance companies (United Defense, Booz Allen Hamilton), electronics and aircraft, all of which depend on technology requiring coltan and, since the UN report naming companies that invest in coltan, the pressure has been on to find supposedly conflict-free sources. Under Carlyles ownership, H.C. Starck voluntarily agreed to do just that.

The argument that questioning the sincerity of global medical philanthropy could cost lives ignores the fact that rush for resources (blue gold, black gold, etc.) leaves trails of death as well.

Ukraine

The same pattern of medical philanthropy preceding military machination had been seen in the Ukraine prior to US and EU installation of a regime with widely reputed neo-Nazi ties as Michael Hughes reports in Huffington Post,

The Obama administration has vehemently denied charges that Ukraine's nascent regime is stock full of neo-fascists despite clear evidence suggesting otherwise. Such categorical repudiations lend credence to the notion the U.S. facilitated the anti-Russian cabal's rise to power as part of a broader strategy to draw Ukraine into the West's sphere of influence. Even more disturbing are apologists, from the American left and right, who seem willing accomplices in this obfuscation of reality, when just a cursory glance at the profiles of Ukraine's new leaders should give pause to the most zealous of Russophobes.

UNICEFs surveillance of anti-vaccine attitudes in Eastern Europe, including the Ukraine, might mesh neatly with panoptic intelligence operations. The lengthy report, which cites Seth Mnookin as a source and borrows from his thought-as-virus (Panic Virus) approach, involved data collected and synthesized from social media in four languages by Attention USA, a PR and competitive intelligence agency that uses NSA-style corporate surveillance technology such as Radian6 and Sysomos and has clients like Microsoft and the Washington Post-owned, for-profit higher education corporation Kaplan University and several pharmaceutical companies. The document also names American vaccine safety advocacy blogs and publications such as Dr. Tenpenny, Mothering Magazineand The Refusers as primary negative influencers in Eastern Europe.

The UNICEF reports conclusions should answer the question raised in Part 2 of this series over whether attitudes towards vaccination in the US and American publications and advocacy groups that question safety might be viewed as contagious abroad and thus threatening to military operations that were dependant on foreign trust of vaccine philanthropythreatening enough on their own to conceivably launch a mass media campaign to inoculate against them.

After Homeland Securitys Lisa Monaco received the bracing letter from public health school deans, its possible that the nature of rescue campaigns in resource-rich regions used as cover may shift to other tactics. Yet war always leaves a trail of disease and decimation of health infrastructure in its wakeitself a gift that keeps giving in generating an opening wedge for panoptic operations.

Endless war, mass surveillance and globalization may partly rest on a bed of permanent contagion. Again, because of the nature of covert operations, its difficult to gauge to what extent vaccine philanthropy has been used as a Trojan horse for wars motivated by control of resources. But the often damaging effects of these campaigns are clear and it becomes harder to justify staying silent about the dual use of philanthropy in the hopes that the more driving intention of the two-sided agenda is to save children around the globe from disease. It does at times. But it too often does double the damage as the Hippocratic principle "first do no harm" is corroded by the rules of war in the merger of irreconcilable aims. If the central point has not always been health and human welfare to begin with, we cant legitimately expect this to be the consistent outcome. If we accept that global medical philanthropy often has a weaponized agenda, then we tacitly accept that public health may move towards war-level collateral and that the system cutting its teeth on secrecy and a military partnership in our name will come home, becoming an entry point for domestic repression and the same colonial divide and conquer strategies waged against other populations.

The next segments of the series looks into the astroturf groups who come down from the hill after the battle to shoot the wounded, sow divisions and rationalize the collateral of all these ideological, social and actual wars.

Adriana Gamondes is a Contributing Editor to Age of Autism and one of the blogs Facebook administrators.
 Flash

China on Monday expressed firm opposition to certain countries' attempt to distort, obscure and hollow out the one-China principle, calling such practices illegal as well as null and void.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks in response to a recent joint statement issued by foreign ministers of the United States, Australia and Japan, which reportedly said that there have been no changes to the three countries' respective one-China policies, "where applicable," or their basic positions on Taiwan.

Such a way to state the one-China principle reveals the attempt to distort, obscure and hollow out the one-China principle, which is illegal and null and void, according to the spokesperson.

Wang said the one-China principle is a consensus in the international community and a universally recognized basic norm governing international relations, and constitutes a part of the post-World War II international order. This was confirmed in the UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 and served as the political foundation for China and other countries to establish and develop diplomatic relations.

The connotations of the one-China principle are clear and leave no doubt: There is only one China, Taiwan is a part of China, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China.

"The application of the one-China principle is universal and unconditional, and brooks no doubt," Wang said. All countries that have established diplomatic relations with China and all UN member states should comply with the one-China principle unconditionally and follow Resolution 2758, he added.

"A man without integrity cannot establish himself, and a country will only fall into decline if it loses credibility," Wang said, urging certain countries to honor their commitments, and realize the hazardous consequences of reneging on their own words and emboldening forces seeking "Taiwan independence."

Attempts to challenge the one-China principle, the international rule of law and international order are bound to be opposed by the international community and are doomed to fail, the spokesperson said.
Beijings government owned and operated media launched an array of military threats in the days leading up to House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taiwan that if carried out would have triggered a regional war, perhaps even World War III. Militant emotions were drummed up on Chinese social media with any dissent censored. This saber-rattling rallied so-called peace groups in the U.S. to Chinas cause. Nothing energizes the radical Left like the chance to back a foreign enemy in its attacks on America. They may have lost the First Cold War, but they intend to do better this time.

State media outlet China Daily ran a photo to show a "typical response by the American people" to Pelosis Congressional delegation trip to Taiwan. It was of a demonstration outside Pelosis office in San Francisco. Protest signs read Peace: No New Cold War on China, U.S. Hands Off Taiwan and China is One. These all reflected Beijings propaganda. There was no sentiment for peace, only a desire that the Communist regime get its way. The activists were identified as belonging to Pivot to Peace, the ANSWER Coalition, CODE PINK, and leaders of the Chinese community in San Francisco.

Pivot to Peace was founded in reaction to the 2011 Pivot to Asia policy of the Obama administration which sought to refocus U.S. efforts from the Middle East to meet the rise of China. Its mission statement reads We are concerned Americans from all walks of life who have come together in opposition to the dramatically increasing drive toward confrontation between the United States and China. We have witnessed a profoundly disturbing reorientation of US military and foreign policy that identifies China as a competitor and adversary. The U.S. reaction to Beijings expanded territorial claims, that run from the East China Sea to the border with India and which are backed by a rapid military buildup including long-range missiles and warships, is said to be what is provoking tensions. This is the old theory of appeasement that blames war not on aggression but on resistance to aggression. It takes two to fight, so our side should just sit it out and let China take what it wants. We believe that friendship and engagement between our countries is the better path towards that future says PTP, if we avoid fear mongering and the revival of old racist stereotypes and Cold War political bugbears. The key to this is to recognize that Taiwan is a mere province China.

ANSWER (Act Now to Stop War and End Racism) was founded just three days after the 9/11 attack to protest military retaliation against al-Qaida. It has since embraced every other enemy of the U.S. It has been calling for the abolition of NATO, echoing Putins line that NATO is the threat to peace and he was only acting defensively when he invaded Ukraine. Beijings imperialist grab for Taiwan backed by threats of war is, however, embraced by ANSWER. It also supports Irans violent ambitions and alignments with Moscow and Beijing.

CODE PINK Women for Peace is the most hate-filled antiwar group imaginable. Apart from its China is not our Enemy campaign, it calls for ending sanctions on Communist Cuba and Venezuela but placing sanctions on Saudi Arabia because CODE PINK favors Iran, whose sanctions should be lifted. It of course opposes Israel, while supporting the Syrian regime backed by Iran. It claims to have started the No to NATO campaign and only wants peace in Ukraine on Putins terms. It claims NATO caused the war by expanding to Russias borders without understanding that this expansion was by countries which had escaped Russian imperialism under the Warsaw Pact. They were seeking a collective defense of their independence against Putins proclaimed revanchist policies. CODE PINK opposes sending any more weapons to Kyiv or to anyone else, but especially not to Taiwan.

CODE PINK doesnt just focus on the claim Taiwan is part of China. Its pro-Beijing campaign includes a call to demilitarize Guam and Hawaii! CODE PINK goes beyond supporting Beijings ambitions in Asia. It also endorses Chinese expansion into Latin America and Africa with its Belt and Road Initiative.

It is tempting to dismiss these radical groups as nothing more than shrill voices from the fever swamp that no one really listens to. But that would be a mistake. Their constant din and media stunts, not to mention their political lobbying and influence in academic circles, have often moved their ideas into the liberal mainstream and affected policy. The China Daily article that featured the photo of the protest at Pelosis office was actually devoted to an interview given to Beijings state media by economist Jeffrey Sachs, director of the Center for Sustainable Development/ Earth Institute at Columbia University. A renowned and prolific globalist, the New York Times has called him probably the most important economist in the world.

Globalists argued after the Cold War that rapid growth in China would tame the Communist regime and lead to democracy. This has not happened -- Beijing turned industrial strength into military power. But whom do the globalists blame? Sachs blames the U.S. In his interview he asserts "The US government is trying to maintain US primacy in all regions of the world, but it lacks the effective means to do this. It should be aiming for cooperation rather than primacy." He also denounced NATO enlargement and argued, "America's aggressive policy towards China is similarly destabilizing and not in the real US interest. The US should be aiming for cooperation with China and peaceful relations with Russia." And he attacked Pelosi for championing Taiwans independence saying, "She is foolish in making these statements. After all, Sachs has argued that China is leading the world in development, so he cant turn on Beijing now.

Nowhere in these protests is there any regard for what the Taiwanese people think or want. Polls consistently show over 80% favor the status quo, which is de facto independence from Beijing with only around 2% favoring unification with China. Ive been to Taiwan several times. The people there are proud and successful, and do not consider themselves in any way to be part of One China. The fact is that the island has only been ruled from Beijing for four out of the last 127 years (1945-49). From 1895-1945 Taiwan was part of the Japanese empire. The island then became the last refuge of the Nationalist government in 1949 after the Communists won the civil war. There are warmer feelings towards Tokyo than Beijing. Japan has invested heavily in the island in ways China never has. And Ive never been anywhere that was more pro-American.

If Beijing believes America will not back Taiwan, that dissent at home will cripple its defenses in Asia, then China will be emboldened to launch a war of conquest. Peace has always been the U.S. position as it maintains a status quo beneficial to freedom and progress. But in a dangerous world, peace is upheld only by deterrence. Aggressors must know that war is not a viable option because they will pay a fearful price for failure. Thus, their interests are best served by peace as well. Pelosis trip strengthened deterrence, which is why Beijings reaction was loud, but did not cross the line. Ironically, it is the agitation of peace groups that increases the risk of war, though given their rhetoric, it seems it is war they want if China can win it.

William R. Hawkins is a former economics professor who served on the professional staff of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee. He has written widely on international economics and national security issues for both professional and popular publications.

Image: Public Domain
Rendering moral judgement of human behavior, as Thomas Jefferson warned, must be hazarded with great diffidence. Countless issues arise. People change behavior based on the influence of others. Acute diffidence is necessary when considering controversial experiments on obedience, such as that by Stanley Milgram, Yale social psychologist, in 1961 in which students, ordinary people, obeying orders, were willing to assist in inflicting pain on other persons. And an even more urgent question arises in relation to judgement of human behavior: Are moral and ethical considerations always relevant to political action?

The revelation of 116 photos, taken during a three-month period, May to July 1944, of well-dressed individuals connected with servicing the worlds most notorious death camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, are chilling examples of the complexity of the human condition. Diffidence must be applied to these photos depicting good times being enjoyed by individuals usually seen as sadistic, psychopathic monsters for at least two reasons.

They portray ambiguity and contradictory elements. On the one hand, the people in the photographs look like ordinary people on vacation. There are no images of horror, and everyone seems normal. On the other hand, the photos were taken during the months when the Nazi staff at Auschwitz-Birkenau processed 142 trains carrying 434,000 Hungarians to their death in Auschwitz, within hours of arrival at the camp. One would expect to see photos of the meetings of senior Nazi figures, Richard Baer, Rudolf Hoss, first commandant of Auschwitz, who returned to Auschwitz to observe the killing of the Hungarian Jews, Joseph Mengele, and Joseph Kramer, the beast of Bergen-Belsen, some never brought to justice. Most disturbing are photos of an accordionist leading singing by 70 SS officers, including Mengele, Kramer, and Otto Moll, supervisor of the Nazi gas chambers.

Even more disturbing are the images of well-dressed, seemingly normal men and mostly young women enjoying life. The image of smiling girls sitting on a fence, eating bowls of blueberries, looking as if they have no cares in the world, relaxing in their private lives, sunbathing, eating berries, in a resort, Solahutte, especially built in Poland by the Nazis, about 20 miles south of the Nazis largest death camp, one in which over one million Jews were massacred. The hamlet, mostly a country club, remained unknown until 2007, when the album of photos of it was revealed. Located in a wooden area, suitable for hiking and relaxing, it was a sub-camp of Auschwitz where about 4,500 SS officers were stationed; it was a haven of tranquility.

The SS rewarded Auschwitz guards for their work with a trip to Solahutte.

The photos were made by SS Obersturmfuhrer Karl Hocker, Chief First Assistant to Richard Baer, last Commandant of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Hocker remained at Auschwitz until its evacuation and fled just before it was liberated. He was captured by British forces and spent 18 months in prisoner-of-war camp. He then merged into post-World War II German society and worked as a banker. At a trial in 1963 in Frankfurt, he was held responsible for transport of Jews to Auschwitz-Birkenau, but the prosecution was unable to prove he was personally responsible in the killing process. Nevertheless, the court was able to find him guilty of aiding in the murder of 1,000 people, He was sentenced to seven years in prison but released early, in 1970. Hocker always denied any wrongdoing.

The photos dating between June 1944 and January 1945, consist of a series of snapshots of mundane activities in the resort, including the singalong. Bowls of fresh blueberries were given to a group of young women and Hocker photographed them sitting on a fence, smiling for the camera. There are no photographs of any prisoners, or of any criminal or immoral activity, of killings or of forced labor.

The photos were taken when Auschwitz was particularly active with the killing of the Hungarian Jews. The photographs disappeared after the war but were found by a U.S. army colonel, a former counterintelligence officer, in a photo album in a trash can in the basement of an abandoned apartment in Frankfurt in 1946 and kept until 2007 when it was donated to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.

How should we view the photos of these people, smiling, playing with their dogs, as ordinary individuals or as sociopathic monsters, as ordinary human beings or as preparators of human cruelty? Were they evil or normal people caught up in an atmosphere of hate?

A play based on the photos has been written by Moises Kaufman, a stage director and son of Romanian Holocaust survivors who hid in a basement during the war along with Amanda Gronich at Kaufmans New York-based Tectonic Theater Project. In documentary style, the multi-media project uses dialogue taken from other records and interviews with the archivists at the Holocaust Museum who have been doing research on the photos. The story is told from the perspectives of real people, who then discuss the impact of the exposure of the images, relating to the issue of why seemingly decent people commit murder and atrocities. The play titled Here there are blueberries opened on July 31, 2022 at the La Jolla Playhouse, California.

Should the fact that the inhabitants could participate in simple, everyday activities, laughing, singing, relaxing, eating blueberries, be seen as a disturbing side of human nature, as people who were not monsters but learned how to commit evil? Hoss was a farmer, Hocker was a bank clerk.

Kaufman has suggested that the photos pose questions about both culpability and complicity, and that these issues are important in American culture.

Image: PublicDomainPictures.Net
How is it possible, in this decades-long sea of crime, that conservatives cannot turn this into a winning issue? The progressive Democratic city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, illustrates problems seen nationwide. Despite record high crime, Mayor Cavalier Johnsons do-nothing platform, and the left-wing agenda of District Attorney John Chisholm, Milwaukee voters in April swept liberals back into office. Yet we still see conservatives running on the same inept campaigns they have been losing for years.

Saying one Backs the Badge and that crime is out of control is sensible, but misses the fact that this has not consistently won elections. Conservatives are occasionally ideological and almost never document decades of liberal crime failures. The revolving door crime wave exploded in the 1960s, putting the criminals back on the street before the police could fill out the paperwork. Crime ran unchecked until the 1990s when truth-in-sentencing laws closed loopholes in sentencing, probation, parole, and early release. But these were structural, not ideological victories. By not demanding apologies, not attacking progressive ideology, conservatives left the door open to renewed liberal attacks that undercut the justice system. Todays revolving door includes district attorneys that do not prosecute; the demonization, defunding, understaffing, and constraining of the police; the deliberate decay of correction systems infrastructure; liberal judges; narcotics open borders; sanctuary cities and lenient bail rules.

Liberal crime policy is a yin and yang of insanity and extortion. The yin of progressive insanity began in the 1960s with the utopian claim that behavioral scientists can rehabilitate criminals without the need for prisons. The resultant crime explosion was followed by more crazy ideology that the criminal is the victim of the unjust society. Later the revolutionary anarchists added the demand to tear down the imperfect justice system.

Left-wing criminologists have unceasing explanations. Their failed programs are repeatedly replaced; and so Milwaukee has its new programs. The 414Life violence prevention program is a failure, with record shootings, stolen cars, reckless driving, and carjackings being the only results after four years and a five-fold increase in funding. Blueprint for Peace is another program, openly anti-law and order and anti-prison spending. This program demands even less inconvenience for criminals by a move away from overly punitive policies and calls the correction system the prison industrial complex. Credible Messenger is another ballyhooed program; it touts equity as a replacement for law enforcement. Their message center talks about current approaches to justice, as if rehabilitation is a new idea.

Claims of success for these initiatives fly in the face of what everyone can see. The public is continuously victimized and lives are shattered. The real problem is not that these programs are endlessly ineffective; its that they undercut law and order. They are not intended as supplements to, but as replacements for traditional criminal justice. Their foundation is insane revolutionary ideology that subverts the justice system. Criminality as the root cause of crime is not considered. Decades of liberal policy failures have resulted in a homicide rate in Milwaukee dozens of times higher than the European Union. Mayor Johnsons platform of gun lock giveaways, police sensitivity training, community healing, faulting street design for reckless driving, and jawing about root causes does nothing. District Attorney Chisholm testified on March 15th that Milwaukee is in a triage crisis, unable to keep up with all the crime. And then in the next breath he bragged about not inconveniencing criminals, that juvenile detentions are way down on his watch. Chisholm also drops 60% of the felony and 65% of the misdemeanor cases given to him. Protecting the public is never the liberal priority.

But the flip side of this yin insanity is yang extortion. Crime is the engine of progressive power for largess, for political gain, to attack the 2nd Amendment and to grow the government. For Bernie Sanders socialists, the government can never be big enough. The government takes an ever-increasing percentage of GDP and then ever-increasingly shifts spending towards social redistribution. Progressives rode the crime wave they created to 40 years control of Congress starting in 1955. They got everything and passed every law they wanted. Their ultimate goal is to let crime get so bad that gun rights are overturned and guns are confiscated. Not coincidentally, the successful truth-in-sentencing movement did not start until the mid-1990s when Democrats lost control of Congress.

High crime is not failure for liberals; in reality this is cruel and cynical extortion that has pushed the massive expansion of federal and state governments. How cruel? Over the last sixty years, 625 million crimes have been reported. One million have been murdered and 1.2 million have died of opioid overdoses. Democratic cities across the country are similar in their dysfunctions. Milwaukee now has the fastest growing murder rate in the country. Progressives are never going to take criminals off the streets, and you will never have a safe society unless you vote the liberals out of office.

Chris Kemble has written articles for the MacIver Institute, Canada Free Press, Natural Gas Now, Wisconsin Conservative Digest, Wisconsin Interest and the Federalist Society. He recently ran for alderman in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Image: MaxPixel.net
I love what Texas governor Greg Abbott is doing in giving illegal entrants the option of being bused from Texas to D.C. and now New York City. With U.S. Customs and Border Protection reporting well over 200,000 southwest land border encounters each month and no end in sight to illegal border crossings under this presidency, I think the governor should significantly expand the program.

Although the cost of busing an illegal is likely much less than the cost to Texas of caring for the migrant and protecting the community from those who commit additional crimes, a non-profit should be set up to raise and provide funds for additional buses not only to D.C. and New York, but to any place that has declared itself a "sanctuary" jurisdiction.

With 11 sanctuary states and 179 (some overlapping) sanctuary counties and cities in a total of 29 states, the State of Texas in coordination with the proposed charitable organization would be able to offer new arrivals to our country the ability to select from among these sanctuary jurisdictions the one that best meets their needs in terms of climate and any number of other factors that will offer them the lifestyle they seek in our land of opportunity.

Sanctuary Jurisdictions



Source.

The program would remain voluntary to participants; but how could it not be extremely attractive for an illegal border-crosser to live in a place where he is guaranteed sanctuary from immigration enforcement when the chances of being granted asylum are slim? Relocation to a sanctuary jurisdiction should be especially appealing to those migrants who contemplate criminal activity, as these cities, states, and counties even shield criminals from ICE as part of their sanctuary status.

But with the many who would proudly donate to this charitable organization, the voluntary busing program might even be able to provide additional incentives (money, gift cards, maybe a cell phone, etc.) to make it even more attractive for any illegal border-crosser to take the Free Bus Ride to Sanctuary. The work of this non-profit would likely appeal to potential donors from across the political spectrum, ranging from open-border liberals who will want to do everything they can to help even the unvetted illegal border-crosser to and rule-of-law conservatives who understand that the border crisis will not be addressed until it is recognized as more than a regional issue affecting only border states.

Once it catches on and people understand its benefits, even President Biden might be able to claim credit for the busing program. After all, it is just an adaptation of the innovative midnight charter flights to Westchester County Airport arranged by his administration last year. But with hundreds of thousands able to obtain sanctuary, this program could take its place in history alongside such moments in transportation and evacuation history as the Mariel boatlift of 1980; Biden's 2021 Kabul Airlift; and, dare I say, the Underground Railroad through the middle of the 19th century. Even Pete Buttigieg might jump on board.

So perhaps Gov. Abbott can arrange to hand each person crossing our border illegally a simple well designed pamphlet (in more than a dozen languages) touting the benefits of relocating to any of the numerous welcoming sanctuary jurisdictions shown on a map like the above and listing the 179 possibilities and provide a well trained staff to facilitate their Free Bus Ride to Sanctuary of their choice.
Joseph Stalin's reputation as a ruthless despot rests on many factors, but particularly upon his persecution of political opponents. Under Stalin, the gulags swelled in size and continued to do so until his death in 1953. Lavrentiy Beria, Stalin's most notorious secret police commander of the People's Commissariat of Internal Affairs (NKVD), boasted about his weaponized law enforcement agency and his ability to "prove" guilt, even in the absence of a crime. His words were, "Show me the man, and I'll show you the crime." First, Beria would identify a target ("the man") before he concocted charges based upon falsified evidence  the victims were guilty until proven innocent. Justice was jettisoned in favor of kangaroo courts.

In contrast, the American federal government, established with the ratification of the Constitution, rooted our justice system in Judeo-Christian ethics and morality. In fact, five of the ten amendments that constitute the Bill of Rights explicitly address governmental limitations in an effort to secure justice. But now we've moved into the wasteland of no return.

The rule of law is no more  the Department of Justice is now the NKVD, and Merrick Garland is Beria. Yesterday, FBI stormtroopers kicked in the doors of President Donald J. Trump's private residence, executing a search warrant. From a statement released by the president:

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided and occupied by a large group of FBI agents. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before. After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid [emphasis added] on my home was not necessary or appropriate. It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats. ... Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries. Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before.

Divine influence, together with the unbelievable minds of our Founders, created the greatest nation in the history of the world. The institution of American justice is sacred  so much so that legions of men willingly laid down their lives in order to secure freedom from tyranny. As Thomas Paine said:
To understand how deep the corruption is at the Department of Justice, and not just at the top, all one needs to do is compare the treatment of former Clinton National Security Advisor Sandy Berger and former President Donald Trump.

Whatever concoction the DOJ serves up to frame Trump, it will not match what Berger actually confessed to doing.

In April 2002, former President Bill Clinton designated Berger as his representative to review intelligence documents in advance of the various hearings on 9/11. As a 2007 report by the House Committee on Government Oversight and Reform made clear, Berger did not exactly welcome this assignment. The archivists told the House committee, in fact, that Berger indicated some disgust with the burden and responsibility of conducting the document review.

To fulfill his obligation to the Clintons, however, Berger was prepared to sacrifice his reputation and very nearly his freedom. According to the House report, Berger made four trips to the National Archives. He did so presumably to refresh his memory before testifying first to the Graham-Goss congressional committee and then to the 9/11 Commission. He made his first visit in May 2002, his last in October 2003.

During at least three of those visits, he stole and destroyed an incalculable number of documents. The full extent of Bergers document removal, said the House report, is not known and never can be known.

According to the committee: Had Berger seen a smoking gun or other documents he did not want brought to an investigatory panels attention, he could have removed it on this visit.

Bergers task, I believe, was to make sure all references to the Bojinka, planes-as-bombs plot and/or TWA Flight 800 were rooted out from the Archives, especially any documents with hand-written notes that led back to Clinton.

If the House report on Berger had a hero, it was the Inspector General of the National Archives, Paul Brachfeld, a career bureaucrat. Beginning with the third of Bergers four visits to the Archives in September 2003, when Berger was first caught in the act of stealing documents, Brachfeld tried to alert the Justice Department to the scope and seriousness of the theft.

On Jan. 14, 2004, the day Berger first testified privately before the 9/11 Commission, Brachfeld met with DOJ attorney Howard Sklamberg. Concerned that Berger had obstructed the 9/11 Commissions work, Brachfeld wanted assurance that the commission knew of Bergers crime and the potential ramifications of it.

He did not get it.

On March 22, 2004, two days before Bergers public testimony, senior attorneys John Dion and Bruce Swartz informed Brachfeld the DOJ was not going to notify the commission of the Berger investigation before his appearance.

On Wednesday, March 24, 2004, Berger testified before the commission. Berger had already been apprehended stealing and destroying documents that the commission was expected to review. The commission members, at least the Republicans, did not know this.

The Republicans on the commission questioned Berger about President Clintons inaction after the bombing of the USS Cole and other terrorist attacks. In a dazzling display of political moxie, Berger cited the contrived TWA 800 narrative to make their inaction seem virtuous. We thought TWA 800 was terrorism, said Berger. It was not terrorism. People actually -- dozens of people saw the missile strike TWA 800 as it went up over Long Island.

At this point, Commissioner John Lehman interjected, Yes, but you just told us . . . .  Berger snapped back, Preliminary judgments, I have come to learn, are not the same as judgments. No, it wasnt terrorism that prompted the cover-up. It was a U.S. Navy misfire, but that is a story for another day.

While the commission hearing moved on, its best story lines suppressed or ignored, the National Archivess Brachfeld kept prodding Justice. On April 6, 2004, two weeks after Bergers appearance before the 9/11 Commission, he called DOJs Inspector General Glenn Fine and again expressed his concern that the commissioners remained unaware of Bergers theft.

Fine organized a meeting for April 9. Brachfeld reported to those gathered: Berger knowingly removed documents and therefore, may have purposely impeded the 9/11 investigation. Some of those documents, Brachfeld added, might have been original. For all of his efforts, Brachfeld was unable to persuade Justice to inform the 9/11 Commission of Bergers actions. The commissioners remained in the dark until July 19, 2004, three days before the 9/11 Commission released its final report, too late for any significant amendment.

At the time this story broke in July 2004, Berger was serving as a campaign advisor to Sen. John Kerry. ''Last year, when I was in the archives reviewing documents, I made an honest mistake, he told reporters. His attorney Lanny Breuer called the removal of these documents an accident and shifted the blame to the Bush White House for using the revelation as a campaign ploy. A year later, when Berger pled guilty, the New York Times wrote off the theft and the surrounding hoopla as a brief stir in the campaign season.

In truth, there was nothing honest or accidental about what Berger had done. Among his more flagrant acts of criminal mischief, Berger swiped some highly classified documents, and then, during a break, stashed them under a trailer at a construction site. He retrieved them at the end of the day and admittedly used scissors to cut the documents into little pieces before throwing them away. These repeated thefts should have caused a whole lot more than a brief stir.

His motives in taking the documents remain something of a mystery, reported the Times after Berger pled guilty. How different history would have been had the Washington Post contented itself with writing, The motives of the Watergate burglars remain something of a mystery.

Finally, on Friday April 1, 2005, the Bush Department of Justice announced its plea deal with Berger, an embarrassingly lenient one at thata $10,000 fine and the loss of his top-level security clearance for three years. That was it. Berger repeatedly stole and destroyed classified documents, lied about it to authorities, and received a much lighter punishment than the protestors who took souvenirs from the Capitol on January 6.

In September 2005, a federal judge upped the ante on Bergers treachery but not by enough to hurt. Judge Deborah Robinson raised the fine to $50,000chump change for the wealthy attorneyadded two years of probation, and threw in one hundred hours of community service. Robinson said she took into account Berger's "otherwise exemplary record" and "sincere expression of remorse" in her sentence.

Berger was remorseful only about getting caught. "I let considerations of personal convenience override clear rules of handling classified material," he lied on the very day of his sentencing. There was nothing convenient about shredding documents and nothing exemplary about the reasons he had to do so. As I watched these events unfold, I presumed the Bush DOJ went soft on Berger to honor some unwritten pact among presidents to protect their predecessors national security secrets.

On closer inspection, however, it seems that the Bush White House lacked control of its own Justice Department. For the record, Dion, Swartz, Sklamberg, and Fine were all holdovers from the Clinton administration. As far as I could tell, Fine, Swartz and Sklamberg have only contributed to Democrat party candidates in federal races and Dion has no record of federal contributions. As I mentioned, the rot runs deep.

For more information, see Cashill.com.

Image: Official portrait (cropped), National Archives, public domain
Yesterday, the ambush on President Trump's private residence by a weaponized arm of the federal government sent paralyzing reverberations across the nation. If Merrick Garland and his lackeys will kick down the doors at the home of a former president, what will they do to us?

Since Barack Obama took office, conservatives have experienced a massive increase in Stalinist political persecution  Lois Lerner using the IRS to target and harass Tea Party non-profits; collaborative censorship among all the social media giants; the prisoners of January 6, many of whom broke no laws; and now the Gestapo-like treatment of our once commander-in-chief. We're dealing with Marxists  godless and immoral, nothing is sacred and nothing is off-limits when it's the means to an end. By all accounts, one might describe the situation as hopeless.

Yet this is not the time to lose courage. In fact, quite the opposite.

America's history is full of giants among men, but for the sake of the argument at hand, one man in particular stands tall, a patriot known for his courage at the Battle of the Alamo: Colonel William Barret Travis. At 26 years old, Travis was a lieutenant colonel and commanded the approximately 200 defenders, almost all of whom would perish at the Alamo. (The only survivor was a young man named Joe.) After a 13-day siege by thousands of the Mexicans under Santa Anna, Travis and the fort fell. Prior, Travis dispatched a letter, calling for reinforcements and detailing his outlook in the midst of battle. The letter reads:

To the People of Texas & All Americans in the World- Fellow Citizens and compatriots- I am besieged, by a thousand or more of the Mexicans under Santa Anna - I have sustained a continual Bombardment & cannonade for 24 hours & have not lost a man - The enemy has demanded a surrender at discretion, otherwise, the garrison are to be put to the sword, if the fort is taken - I have answered the demand with a cannon shot, & our flag still waves proudly from the walls - I shall never surrender or retreat. Then, I call on you in the name of Liberty, of patriotism & everything dear to the American character, to come to our aid, with all dispatch - The enemy is receiving reinforcements daily & will no doubt increase to three or four thousand in four or five days. If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible & die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor & that of his country - Victory or Death.

In his words, we see a man, who faces certain death, remain resolute for the sake of freedom and his country. Death is preferable to capitulating to tyrants  Santa Anna ordered surrender, but what was Travis's response? A cannonball. Until the very end, Travis fought with all he had, emphasizing the preciousness of "liberty" and "the American character."

In light of current events, with tremendous tyranny closing in on all sides, the words of Colonel Travis should strike at the hearts of American patriots, pouring steel down our spines and renewing us for the fight.

He ends his letter with this: "P.S. The Lord is on our side."
For my money, one of the funniest moments in classic TV comedy was a scene from The Dick Van Dyke Show in which Rob Petrie, hypnotized to believe he is drunk, struggles to take off his jacket. It's apex physical humor. That same scene, however, is much less funny when the president of the United States, which was once the world's most powerful country, struggles vainly to put on his jacket, only to have his wife offer her barely competent assistance.

The video is less than 40 seconds long, but it packs so much. Joe and Jill have just emerged from Marine One. Behind them, flanking the doors to the helicopters, stand two Marines, absolutely still, with carefully blank expressions. A masked Joe stops and begins to put his jacket on.

Getting his right arm into the jacket works well. It's when he tries to get his left arm into the jacket that things start to fall apart. The jacket slips behind his right shoulder and, as he tries to reach for it with his left arm, the jacket starts to slide down his right arm. Joe rotates back toward his right side in a vain effort to reach the jacket.



Image: Joe Biden's jacket comedy. Twitter screen grab.

Jill realizes that Joe is struggling and calls out to him. Like a toddler, he ambles over to her, seeking her help. Now that he's facing the screen again, it's obvious that his sunglasses (you know, those "cool Joe" sunglasses) are falling off his face.

Jill, after a bit of a struggle, manages to get both of Joe's arms securely in his jacket. All the while, Joe's sunglasses continue their inexorable slide off his face. Finally, as they start to walk away from Marine One, Joe's glasses hit the ground. And all the while, throughout this little comedy of errors, those two young Marines never betray their thoughts with even the slightest quiver.

Normally, this would be a silly nothing. It happens to everybody  the chase for that sleeve that slithers away, the sunglasses falling down... As couples age, it happens too that the husband ages faster and the wife falls into the caregiver role.

But this isn't normal. This is the man who occupies the Oval Office and who, in many ways, has the fate of the world in his hands. America may no longer be the most powerful nation in the world (Obama already saw to that), but it is still a consequential nation. And because it is consequential, it is a target for the world's bad actors.

When America was a mighty lion, those bad actors, like jackals, stayed away from her. With a senescent president who degrades visibly with every passing day, even as his handlers aggressively preside over America's decline (whether harming her economic status, her sovereignty, her national security, or her cultural normalcy), America is like a wounded, possibly dying animal. That's when the jackals gain courage and began moving in, nipping at the wounded animal to measure its survivability and hasten its death.

Biden's impotence and degradation are a visible metaphor for America's decline. It's a terrible look, and this video sets the seal on it.
They really can't help themselves. Last Friday, Hispanic state legislators accepted an invite from Kamala Harris to meet at the White House and discuss avenues to promote the slaughter in their very own familial communities. According to state representative Angela Romero from Utah, "[Harris] really wanted to address abortion and abortion access and how it impacts the Latinx community[.]"

Historically, the Hispanic community has always voted Democrat  a trend that is rapidly changing. Just two months ago, Mayra Flores became the first Republican to win in a Democrat stronghold district since 1870  and the district is 84.54% Hispanic.

Hispanic Americans constitute a massive voting bloc. Both sides of the aisle know it, but one party is digging its heels in, demanding subjugation rather than trying its hand at representation. (Take a wild guess which one that might be.) Last month, The Economist ran a piece titled "Democrats have a Hispanic problem," while just a few weeks ago, NPR published an article with the headline "Hispanic and minority voters are increasingly shifting to the Republican party."

Hispanic culture is largely rooted in the Catholic faith, with most being staunchly anti-abortion, and fiercely protective over family. I recall a few years back, I attended a school board meeting for the Tucson Unified School District. The school board was attempting to implement a salacious and quite literally pornogrpahic "sexual education" curriculum in the elementary schools  this was before school board meetings were the battleground they are now. Lo and behold, the Tucson Hispanic community showed up en masse and, as it should be, bent the school administrators to the will of the parents:

When the Hispanic community, especially the pastors and ministry leaders of that community, got wind of what TUSD was trying to do and what was in the curriculum, they mobilized and they were angry[.] They were upset because this was an assault on their family. This was an assault on their culture that's deeply pro-family and pro-faith.

Yet the Democrats continue to force-feed a culture of death to a culture that has profound respect for the sanctity of human life  and it's going to cost them big time this November. Hispanic voters most certainly reject appeals to murder their own progeny, and it looks as though they're about to jettison the Democrat party as a whole.
FBI director Christopher Wray was recently questioned by Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) about a Project Veritas report regarding a document, provided by a whistleblower, which revealed FBI guidelines for identifying "Militia Violent Extremists."

In the leaked document, the Betsy Ross Flag, the Gadsden Flag, the Gonzales Battle Flag, and other common American patriotic symbols, were portrayed as materials that could be used by or indicative of "domestic terrorists." Reference to the U.S. Constitution, in particular the Second Amendment  which the document abbreviated as "2A"  was also included on the list of items a crazed right-wing "extremist" might fancy.

Sen. Cruz was masterful in his takedown of Wray, stating, "Now, that is fairly remarkable that the Betsy Ross flag, in the FBI's indication, is indicative of Militia Violent Extremism because, among other people who have been publicly alongside the Betsy Ross flag, we have President Barack Obama, who was sworn in directly underneath the Betsy Ross flags. But it's not just President Obama; we also have President Biden, who was sworn in under Betsy Ross flags. It's not just the Betsy Ross flag. Also on this list is the Gadsden flag as a symbol of violent extremism. Now, the State of Virginia has a license plate for the Gadsden flag, as do many other states. I think people would be astonished to find that having that license plate, the FBI indicates that you're a violent extremist."

Addressing the issue of the Gonzales Battle Flag being included on the list, Cruz noted: "Also included on this is the text that I was particularly struck, is the Gonzales Battle Flag, 'Come and Take It' ... as indicative of being a violent extremist militia."

He added, "Well, I will self-report right now, that every day in the Senate I wear my boots that have the Gonzales Battle Flag on the back of them"...as he simultaneously grabbed one of those boots and set it on the table in front of him, the aforementioned flag facing Wray so the FBI director could see that he wasn't kidding.

How did we reach a point where some of our nation's most revered historical symbols are thought to be totems of domestic terrorists? How did we arrive at a time when our nation's critical law enforcement agencies have been politicized and weaponized to such an extent that they themselves should be considered to be domestic terror groups, filled with violent extremists? How did it happen that they have turned on the very citizens they were constitutionally mandated to protect and serve?

And how is it that LGBT flags proudly fly from American embassies around the world, and BLM and Antifa flags are seen as non-threatening  if not essential  while various iterations of "Old Glory" are now seen as "problematic" at best by the powers that be? Some in the Democrat party today would appear to favor the Chinese Communist Party's flag or the hammer and sickle of the erstwhile Soviet Union over, say, the Gadsden Flag.

So what are average, hardworking, patriotic American citizens in flyover country supposed to do in light of the attacks on them?

Well, it is abundantly clear that our elitist rulers want us to wave the white flag and surrender.

Personally, I would prefer that we don't acquiesce to tyrants  and figuratively shove Gadsden Flags up the part of their bodies where the sun doesn't shine.

Better yet, we could  each of us  turn their own bombs against them...by calling out their own preposterous extremism, as Sen. Cruz did so effectively.

Image: Picryl.
Immediately after news broke about the FBI raid on a former, and possibly future, president, Republican politicians were silent. Fortunately, after they got over their initial shock and began making their political calculations, they concluded that what Biden's Department of Justice has done is completely outrageous and un-American. Marco Rubio, especially, went on a tear, so much so that he got himself trending on Twitter.

Rubio began by putting out several tweets attacking the administration's completely un-American abuse of power. He pointed out that America has never politically persecuted former presidents or potential political opponents. (Trump, for all his bluster, left Hillary alone, even though there was no question about her myriad violations of national security laws.)

Using government power to persecute political opponents is something we have seen many times from 3rd world Marxist dictatorships



But never before in America  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) August 9, 2022

After todays raid on Mar A Lago what do you think the left plans to use those 87,000 new IRS agents for?  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) August 9, 2022

The FBI isnt doing anything about the groups vandalizing Catholic Churches, firebombing Pro-Life groups or threatening Supreme Court justices



But they find time to raid Mar A Lago  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) August 9, 2022

(Regarding the IRS, it also has over 5 million rounds of ammo; 4,461 weapons, including 15 fully automatic ones; and 2,148 law enforcement officers  and this is all before it benefits from the new spending bill.)

Rubio rounded out his evening of tweets with a short, compelling video in which he explains that we have entered a new chapter in American politics, one in which an administration criminally persecutes potential future political rivals:

Biden is playing with fire by using a document dispute to get the @TheJusticeDept to persecute a likely future election opponent



Because one day what goes around is going to come around



And then we become Nicaragua under Ortega pic.twitter.com/LwODnsYtcr  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) August 9, 2022

Rubio wasn't the only Republican who took a stand. Here's just a sampling of Republican politicians, some who always speak out (e.g., Ted Cruz) and others who seem to have realized that, if they don't push back now, a weaponized justice system and a rogue presidential administration mean that they're all at risk:

2/x Congress must demand answers. We need hearings; we need subpoenas.



Dems in charge will refuse, but the American people deserve to know why Biden is using the FBI as his political enforcers.



Tin-pot dictators do that, but thats not how America works.  Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) August 9, 2022

4/x Ironically, Eric Holder predicted the Biden DOJ: pic.twitter.com/sXIGCn8Tvz  Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) August 9, 2022

The FBI raid on President Trumps home is an unprecedented political weaponization of the Justice Department. Theyve been after President Trump as a candidate, as President, and now as a former President. Using the criminal justice system in this manner is un-American.  Kristi Noem (@KristiNoem) August 9, 2022

The raid of MAL is another escalation in the weaponization of federal agencies against the Regimes political opponents, while people like Hunter Biden get treated with kid gloves. Now the Regime is getting another 87k IRS agents to wield against its adversaries? Banana Republic.  Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantisFL) August 9, 2022

And we KNOW the BIG MAN met with the Chinese, facilitated Hunters business dealings, and probably got kick-backs! We have a two-tiered justice system in this country: one for the liberal elites and one for everyone else.  Rep. Jeff Duncan (@RepJeffDuncan) August 9, 2022

Did Biden sign off on this raid? The American people deserve answers.  Rep. Jeff Duncan (@RepJeffDuncan) August 9, 2022

The Epoch Times, which covers the raid very well, has a list of other Republicans who spoke up about it:

"The DOJ & FBI are being weaponized like never before to target political opponents. This Admin has thrown the rule of law and faith in our democratic institutions out the door," said Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) in a Monday Twitter post. "Joe Biden and Merrick Garland must answer immediately for today's raid against an American president." "The inconsistent and partisan application of the law by the FBI has gone too far," Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) said on Monday. "The Democrats, for too long, have used our government agencies from the FBI to the IRS to target their political opponents. This inconceivable raid is an attack on our Republic." "This action, a raid on a former President and political rival, is something we would expect from Putin on his rivals... not here, not in the USA," Rep. Dan Meuser (R-Pa.) said.

We voters cannot sit out the election this November. In non-presidential election years, turnout tends to be incredibly low. This year, though, Congress's composition is overwhelmingly important.

With majorities, we can have hearings into all sorts of interesting things (e.g., the entire story of January 6). It's also theoretically possible that Republicans could gain a veto-proof majority in both houses. A majority like that could undo a lot of the damage under the Biden administration to date. I'm not holding my breath, but I can guarantee it's a non-starter if you don't vote.

The Democrats have gotten beyond arrogant, and they may have finally pushed things too far. They've frightened Republicans and may have mobilized many Americans who usually don't care about elections but may care a great deal when they're starting to look like Nicaragua or Venezuela.

Image: Marco Rubio (edited). Twitter screen grab.
Am I happy that Latin America elected leftists?

Of course not, but it may turn out to be a blessing in disguise.

Down in Chile, leftist President Gabriel Boric is struggling in the polls. He is learning that changing a constitution is complicated, especially if your message is divisive and economically risky.

Over in Colombia, newly sworn in leftist President Gustavo Petro will soon to face reality as well, such as slow economic growth rates, high levels of corruption, entrenched inequality, inadequate health and education services, and poor infrastructure. Add to this a faltering peace process with former insurgents and a history of bad relations with Venezuela and it will get ugly fast.

Yes, honeymoons are turning out to be short for the Latin American left:

The experience of Petro's ideological soul mates in Chile, Peru, and Argentina offer useful lessons.

The first is to avoid interpreting their recent electoral success as a triumph of socialism or an invitation to repeat the failed state-centric economic policies of the early 2000s. Instead of voting for fresh ideas, Latin Americans have been voting against incumbent governments.

Most of the region's sitting presidents were conservatives, so a change of guard inevitably means a shift left, a trend that began with Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's victory in Mexico in 2018.

Reasons for discontent abound: living standards are falling, the state is failing to deliver, and the best opportunities are too often reserved for a privileged few. The pandemic exacerbated social tensions.

As a result, presidential honeymoons are short and expectations almost impossibly high.

The perils for new leaders are obvious: the presidents of Chile and Peru have seen their approval ratings collapse in a matter of months because they disappointed impatient voters.

In Argentina, the incumbents facing a drubbing at the polls next year are on the left.

Voters care about results, not ideology.

Yes, governing is tough, especially when the elected leaders misread public sentiments.

It turns out that Latin American voters were angry at incumbents, particularly after the pandemic. The left exploited the anger and promised a lot  a lot that they can't deliver.

And now the honeymoons are over, and the voters are angry with the left for failing to deliver, such as in Peru, Chile, and Argentina.

How long will President Petro's honeymoon last? Not long, especially if he listens to the "three amigos" in Lima, Santiago, and Buenos Aires.

PS: Check out my videos and posts.

Image: Pixabay, Pixabay License.
College campuses have become remarkably dystopian in the past 20 years. Once they sought to end racism; now they aggressively pursue anti-White racism. Once they sought to bring women into parity with men; now they seek to replace women with men. Once they cherished their niche as places of unique intellectual freedom; now they demand complete intellectual conformity. And once, believe it or not, they used to teach that America was a shining light among nations, while now they routinely denigrate America, deriding its institutions and inherent value. That's bad. What's worse is that the Obama and Biden administrations have inculcated college values into America's military.

Thomas Spoehr, a retired lieutenant general who served 36 years in the United States Army, is now the director of the Center for National Defense at the Heritage Foundation. In that capacity, he gave a speech at Hillsdale College's Washington, D.C. campus about the rise of the leftist "woke" mentality in the American military. Hillsdale has published an adaptation of Spoehr's talk in Imprimis. I found the speech fascinating and wanted to share it with you because it is such a lucid analysis of the way hard-left concepts about race, sex, intellectual freedom, and America itself have been hardwired into the military since 2008.



Image: The Army celebrates pride month (2020). YouTube screen grab.

Spoehr opens his speech with two basic premises: (1) wokeness is now interwoven in the military and cannot easily be removed, even if a conservative administration makes the effort, and (2) "woke ideology undermines military readiness in various ways." That second point should worry everyone who believes that our nation can best avoid conflicts if predatory nations view America as bristling with a strong military defense. According to Spoehr, though, wokeness destroys our defensive capabilities:

It undermines cohesiveness by emphasizing differences based on race, ethnicity, and sex. It undermines leadership authority by introducing questions about whether promotion is based on merit or quota requirements. It leads to military personnel serving in specialties and areas for which they are not qualified or ready. And it takes time and resources away from training activities and weapons development that contribute to readiness.

Wokeness in the military also affects relations between the military and society at large. It acts as a disincentive for many young Americans in terms of enlistment. And it undermines wholehearted support for the military by a significant portion of the American public at a time when it is needed the most.

It's no exaggeration to say the military is overwhelmed with wokeness. Spoehr has example after example:

Forcing all combat units to accept women, even though study after study reveals that doing so damages combat readiness.

Opening the military to so-called "transgender" people, who have major mental health issues (including a high suicide risk) and extremely expensive physical health requirements.

Allowing people with HIV to serve despite the risk of cross-infection in bloody environments.

Lowering physical fitness standards for men to accommodate women.

Changing longstanding military titles, under which people proudly served, essentially degrading institutional pride.

Teaching troops (including at the academies) that America is a fatally flawed, deeply racist country that is irreparably damaged because of toxic whiteness.

Training troops to believe that capitalism is inherently racist.

Mandating "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" offices across the military.

Destroying the military's equipment readiness by chasing the climate chimera.

Meanwhile, as Spoehr is careful to point out, China is going full speed ahead with an old-fashioned military that has massive amounts of equipment and is filled with men who are being trained not to hate themselves and their country, but to kill the enemy. As China increases military spending, we're decreasing military spending.

All in all, Spoehr's is an exceptionally compelling narrative that should strike fear into the heart of anyone who believes, as a matter of common sense, that the nation least likely to get involved in war is a freedom-oriented nation with strong military readiness that repels attacks. The Biden administration, however, building on what Obama did during his eight years, is using leftist social and environmental doctrines to turn our military into a shrunken, divided, ineffective sitting duck.
Xiaomi will announce its second foldable smartphone on August 11, the Xiaomi MIX Fold 2. Thats not all that will arrive during that press event, though. The Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro tablet is also coming, as are the Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro.

The Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 will become official on August 11, alongside two other devices

So, Xiaomi has a lot to showcase. The Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 is arguably the most interesting device on that list, though. It has been rumored for a long time now, and Xiaomi is finally ready to show it.

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The Xiaomi Mi MIX Fold launched way back in March last year, almost a year and a half ago. It will be interesting to see what sort of improvements Xiaomi put in place this time around.

The Xiaomi Mi MIX Fold never made it to markets outside of China, so were hoping its successor will. This is a China launch, though, but a global event may follow later on.

Some info regarding this device did surface over the last couple of months. The phone is expected to include two displays, both of which will include a 120Hz refresh rate. Samsungs E5 display will be utilized, as the phones external display.

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The phone will feature Leica branding, and use a 50-megapixel main camera

A 50-megapixel main camera (Sonys IMX766 sensor) was also mentioned, as was a 13-megapixel ultrawide unit. A telephoto camera will also sit on the back, and offer 2x optical zoom. Leica branding will be a part of the offering.

The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 SoC is expected to fuel this smartphone, while Dolby audio will be included too. You can also expected to get the Surge C1 chip for charging in this package. Android 12 will come pre-installed, with Xiaomis MIUI skin on top of it.

The Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro will utilize a 12.4-inch display

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The Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro will become the companys new tablet, a rather large one. This device is expected to utilize a 12.4-inch display, and feature a 50-megapixel camera on the back. The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip is tipped, but it likely wont use that processor. A mid-range chip is more of a possibility.

The Xiaomi Buds 4 Pro are coming to succeed the Buds 3 Pro which arrived last year. Those earbuds will have support for 48dB intelligent dynamic noise reduction, and independent spatial audio.
(ANSA) - ROME, AUG 9 - Four people, members of the same family, were injured by a lightning strike on a beach at Soverato near Catanzaro in Calabria on Monday evening.

The lightning struck amid one of the thunderstorms that have hit Italy over the last two days, briefly breaking the sticky afa heat.

The most seriously hurt was a man who was taken to the intensive care unit of a Catanzaro hospital.

His wife and their six-year-old son sustained less serious injuries and were taken to the same hospital.

The mother-in-law sustained slight injuries and was treated at a hospital in Soverato.

The family is of Calabrian origin but lives in Bergamo in northern Lombardy.

They had returned to Soverato for a summer holiday.

The part of the beach where the lightning struck was crowded with holidaymakers but no one else was hit.

Italy is set for a fresh heat wave after the wave of thunderstorms ends later this week. (ANSA).


(ANSA) - ROME, AUG 9 - Italy has started monkeypox vaccinations with the first jabs being given at Rome's Spallanzani Hospital Monday followed by others in Bologna and the rest of Emilia-Romagna starting Tuesday.

The other two priority regions, Lombardy and Veneto, will begin giving out doses of the vaccine later this week.

The number of monkeypox cases in Italy rose by 54 Tuesday, to 599.

On July 23 the World Health Organization said monkeypox was a "global health emergency".

The vaccination campaign is not a mass effort like the COVID one but is instead directed at persons at greatest risk of infection such as gays, transgender, bisexuals and other men who h ave sex with men, as well as lab staff with possible exposure to the orthopoxvirus.

The Spallanzani is Italy's premier infectious disease hospital and treated the first COVID-19 patients in early 2020. (ANSA).


ROME - Raphael's Portrait of a Young Woman, also known as La Fornarina or the baker woman, has returned home to Rome's Palazzo Barberini National Art Gallery after featuring highly in a delayed landmark show at London's National Gallery devoted to the 500th anniversary of the Renaissance master's death on Good Friday 1520.



The British gallery had loaned in its place The Lady with the Squirrel, a masterpiece by Handis Holbein, which will now return to London.



The exchange is part of Barberini Gallery Director Flaminia Gennari Santori,'s strategy of valorising international collaboration, the Roman museum said.



Raphael's masterpiece was made between 1518 and 1519. It is now back in the Galleria Nazionale d'Arte Antica in Palazzo Barberini Corsini, Rome, just off Piazza Barberini.



It is probable that the picture was in the painter's studio at his death in 1520, and that it was modified and then sold by his assistant Giulio Romano.



The woman is traditionally identified with the fornarina (baker) Margherita Luti, Raphael's Roman lover who refused to marry him, though this has been questioned.



Alternatively, it can be argued that this is not a portrait of a specific woman, but rather Raphael's interpretation of the belle donne theme and a depiction of a courtesan.



Still, another interpretation of who the model is identifies the figure as a witch.




The death of an 11-year-old girl at a water park in Berkshire is being treated as unexplained but not suspicious, Thames Valley Police have said.

Emergency services were called to Liquid Leisure, near Datchet, at 3.55pm on Saturday after the youngster was reported missing.

She was found just after 5.10pm and rushed to Wexham Park Hospital, where she died.

Liquid Leisure said the aqua assault course will remain closed for the rest of the week out of respect for her family.

In an update on Tuesday, Thames Valley Police said the incident is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.

People leave flowers outside Liquid Leisure in Windsor. (PA)

The force said that officers are working with the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead council as they conduct an investigation over whether there were any health and safety breaches.

The victims next of kin continue to be offered support by officers.

Meanwhile, a public inquiry into the matter is to begin on November 8.

Flowers and messages were seen outside Liquid Leisures closed gates on Tuesday as tributes poured in following the girls death.

One read: To a beautiful little girl.

I hope you know how hard everyone tried to save you.

You were just too beautiful for this world. You will always be the brightest star in the night sky forever 11.

Another said: RIP little angel, lots of love the Morgans xx.

Detective Inspector Stuart May, based at Windsor police station, said: The thoughts of everyone at Thames Valley Police continue to be with the victims loved ones after such a tragic incident.

We have conducted a thorough investigation and have not identified any suspicious circumstances so a file will be prepared for the coroner.

Closed signs on the gates of Liquid Leisure in Windsor (Andrew Matthews/PA)

We have been liaising with the councils officers who will now take over responsibility for the investigation to determine any potential breaches under relevant health and safety legislation.

Once again, I would ask that the victims family and friends privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time.

A spokesperson for the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead said: This is a tragic incident and our thoughts and deepest condolences go to the family and friends of the girl during this most difficult time.

We have been liaising with the police during their stage of the investigation.

We are now taking over responsibility and conducting a health and safety investigation to determine any potential breaches under relevant health and safety legislation.

A Liquid Leisure statement said: Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and all those effected by this desperately tragic and upsetting incident.

As Thames Valley Police are in the early stages of investigation, it would not be right for us to add further comment, but we will continue to fully support and assist them throughout the process.

The attractions website says: Liquid Leisure is home to Europes largest aqua park and the first official Ninja Warrior UK aqua park, set on one of the most beautiful private freshwater lakes amongst stunning parkland in the heart of Berkshire.

Emergency services, including Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service and South Central Ambulance Service, were at the scene on Saturday afternoon.
The Chancellor is set to reiterate the Governments commitment to delivering an equivalent to the 400 energy bill discount in Northern Ireland.

Nadhim Zahawi will visit the region on Wednesday where he will take part in a number of meetings.

One of those meetings will be with Stormont Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey.

She said she will press him over that scheme being extended to Northern Ireland, but said the quickest solution would be a functioning government at Stormont.

The Assembly is currently unable to fully function due to protest action by the DUP demanding the UK Government acts over unionist concerns around the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The Chancellor is also to meet with staff at a wholesale supplier to listen to their concerns around rising household bills, as well as an innovation hub for cybersecurity.

Speaking ahead of his visit, Mr Zahawi said the Government is absolutely committed to helping households in Northern Ireland with their fuel bills.

I know families across Northern Ireland are feeling anxious about rising costs and the UK Government has stepped in to ease pressures on household budgets, he said.

We delivered an unprecedented level of support in July with a national insurance cut that will put 330 back into workers pockets this year, while many of Northern Irelands most vulnerable households have already received the first instalment of a 650 Cost of Living Payment.

And theres more to come. Not only will the second instalment of that payment arrive this autumn, but Ive been clear that we are absolutely committed to bringing an equivalent to the 400 energy bills discount to Northern Ireland as soon as possible to ease the burden on families.

We will continue to help support families in Northern Ireland through the global pressures we are all facing.
Stacked mailing boxes from the US Mail service. These are the post office bulk mailer trays - useful for bulk mailing, EDDM, direct mail marketing etc. (Gradivis via Getty Images)

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  An Ohio man is in custody after being accused of sending about three-dozen feces-filled letters to lawmakers around the country, including Ohios 25 Republican state senators in early July.

Police arrested Richard Steinle, a 77-year-old from Mogadore, Ohio, and former Portage County Common Pleas Court mediator on Friday. Steinle is charged with sending injurious articles as nonmailable, violating a federal law that prohibits mailing certain things, including hazardous material, according to court records.

The misdemeanor charge carries a maximum prison sentence of one year and a $100,000 fine. A message seeking comment was left with Steinle's lawyer.

The feces mailed in early July prompted an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, but investigators said Steinle has been sending such letters since August 2021 to elected officials in Washington D.C., Kentucky, California and Ohio.

Mailroom employees in the Ohio Statehouse and post offices in Cleveland and Akron intercepted the 25 letters, which never made it to their intended recipients. The return addresses on the letters were deemed fake. Some letters contained words such as pig and racist on them, according to court records.

In late July, investigators for the U.S. Postal Inspection service conducted surveillance on Steinle's home after a tip from another court employee that Steinle might be involved in sending the letters. Investigators witnessed Steinle mailing a letter while wearing a glove and after retrieving the letter, determined it to be contaminated with feces. The letter was addressed to Republican U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, according to court records.

A message was left with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service seeking comment. It is not clear if the feces were human or animal.

Senate GOP spokesperson John Fortney called the incident in early July outrageous and a serious health risk.

This type of biohazard attack doesnt just stop with the people its directed towards, Fortney said. This is something that could potentially affect every single employee at the Ohio Statehouse, regardless of their political affiliation.

Steinle was released on a $20,000 unsecured bond and his next hearing is set for Aug. 25.

___

Samantha Hendrickson is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Samantha Hendrickson on Twitter.
Donald Trump released a statement Wednesday saying that he's invoking his Fifth Amendment right not to answer questions from the New York attorney general, who's investigating his business practices.

"I once asked, 'If you're innocent, why are you taking the Fifth Amendment?' Now I know the answer to that question. When your family, your company, and all of the people in your orbit have become the targets of an unfounded, politically motivated Witch Hunt supported by lawyers, prosecutors, and the Fake News Media, you have no choice," he wrote in a statement posted on his social media site, Truth Social.

The New York office is looking into whether Trump and his children lied about the value of their real estate holdings, and the sworn testimony could have had the potential to reshape his business prospects. Instead, he said he's invoking the Fifth Amendment, which protects against self-incrimination.

The deposition comes amid a swirl of investigations into Trump, including a probe into the Jan. 6 Capitol riot that led to federal agents raiding Trump's Mar-a-Lago home on Monday. It also comes ahead of a widely expected third run for the presidency that he could announce as early as this year, as he continues to perpetuate the perception that he's wealthy. The civil inquiry from New York Attorney General Letitia James and her team threatens to undermine that image.

The investigation is centered around the claim that Trump undervalued his properties when reporting taxes to the IRS, but then overvalued those same properties when it came time to use them as collateral in bank loans. Depending on the true value of the asset, the maneuver opens up the Trump organization to claims of bank fraud.

In a court filing last January, Jamess office said it has developed significant additional evidence indicating that the Trump Organization used fraudulent or misleading asset valuations to obtain a host of economic benefits, including loans, insurance coverage, and tax deductions.

Former President Donald Trump takes the stage at a conference in Texas on August 6, 2022. (REUTERS/Brian Snyder)

Smoke and mirrors and the Trump organization

The former president was expected to face questions during his deposition under oath about a complicated topic: his net worth.

For Trump, "what matters is looking like you're a billionaire, says Gwenda Blair, a Columbia University professor and Trump family biographer.

The perception that he has vast wealth has fueled Trump's fame and political clout and more practically, helped him secure funding necessary to keep his businesses afloat. But his actual net worth is unclear, with even Trump himself giving conflicting estimates of the assets at his disposal.

For decades, journalists and prosecutors have tried to dig into that opaque black box called the Trump Organization but not ever gotten very far, Blair told Yahoo Finance.

How strong would a case against Trump be?

I am 120% confident that he pulled those types of shenanigans, says Harry Hurt III, another former Trump biographer.

Hurt seems doubtful, though, that the public will ever be completely privy to Trump's financial dealings. Asked by Yahoo Finance if he thought the public would ever have a real sense of Trumps net worth and whether he believes Trump was a billionaire, Hurt responded no and no.

If Trump is actually a billionaire behind all the smoke and mirrors, Hurt said, it will only be because of property in Brooklyn left behind by his father, Fred Trump, that Donald has had little to do with.

He wants to present to the public as both a billionaire and a self-made billionaire, neither of which have ever been true, Hurt said.

Despite doubts by some that Trump is a billionaire, Forbes estimates Trumps wealth at $3 billion as of early August. In recent months, Forbes reports, Trump's wealth has gotten a boost thanks to investors betting on Trump Media. During a single day in October, shares of Digital World Acquisition Corp (DWAC), the special purpose acquisition company aiming to merge with Trump's social media site, jumped by over 350%.

'They even broke into my safe!'

Trump faces no shortage of groups examining his potential misconduct. The Justice Department is reportedly looking into his role in the Capitol riot as part of a criminal probe spurred on by the House Select Committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack. The D.C. attorney general is also preparing to go to trial over fraud at Trumps inaugural committee. Prosecutors in Georgia are digging into his alleged interference in Georgias election in 2020. And the Securities and Exchange Commission is investigating his arrangement with Digital World Acquisition Corp.

Monday's unannounced raid in Florida was reportedly focused on Trump's alleged mishandling of classified documents and represented a dramatic escalation of the face-off between Trump and federal officials.

"They even broke into my safe!" Trump wrote in a statement confirming the raid.

Meanwhile, at the state level, there are overlapping investigations into Trump's business practices in New York with the state attorney general's probe being the most prominent. That office has reportedly already deposed three of Trumps children  Eric, Ivanka, and Don Jr.

New York State Attorney General Letitia James at a canvassing event on October 30, 2021 in New York City.(Scott Heins/Getty Images)

During his deposition, Eric Trump asserted his Fifth Amendment rights more than 500 times, according to court filings cited by CNN. Don Jr., on the other hand, reportedly answered questions, opting not to invoke the protection against self-incrimination.

Trump over the years has repeatedly suggested that people who plead the Fifth could be guilty, though he has also invoked that amendment himself in previous instances.

The New York attorney general's office declined to comment on details of the ongoing investigation. Likewise, representatives from the Trump Organization did not respond to questions about their preparations for the upcoming testimony.

I look better if I'm worth $10 billion

Trump is touchy when it comes to questions about his own net worth. He sued one biographer who wrote that he wasnt a billionaire, and he's engaged in a long-running battle with Forbes over its calculations.

A former reporter for the magazine has revealed audiotapes from the 1980s that appear to show Trump  posing as his alter ego John Barron  falsely claiming Fred Trumps had passed on many of his assets had to his son.

I have learned that [Trump] should not have been on the first three Forbes 400 lists at all, wrote the former reporter, Jonathan Greenberg.

Donald Trump with his then-wife Ivana in September 1984. (Sonia Moskowitz/Getty Images)

Then during the 2016 campaign, Trump filed forms claiming to be worth $10 billion. I look better if I'm worth $10 billion than if I'm worth $4 billion, he told Forbes. The magazine ended up pegging his actual wealth at $4.5 billion that year.

In more recent years, Trump has fallen off the Forbes 400 as the pandemic cut into his business.

This article was originally posted on Aug. 9 and updated on Aug. 10 with the date of his deposition.

Ben Werschkul is a Washington correspondent for Yahoo Finance.

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance

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Seriously opulent, luxurious and meticulously crafted fashion, jewelry and accessories by 100 designers from Saudi Arabia are being spotlighted starting Tuesday at the Iron23 event space in Manhattans Flatiron neighborhood.

The Saudi designers, many considered emerging brands and selected from a field of 1,500, were challenged to create pieces expressly for the exhibit and that reflect Saudi heritage and culture. The exhibit, called Saudi 100 Brands Fashion Exhibition, has been organized by Saudi Arabias Fashion Commission. None of the 100 brands has been seen outside Saudi Arabia until now.

More from WWD

The exhibition, which debuted in Riyadh late last year, is split into eight different categories: ready-to-wear, modest, concept, premiere, demi-couture, bridal, handbags and jewelry. While ornate in terms of the heavy use of fabric, embroidery, laser-cuts, color and references from Saudi architecture and landscape, they are modest to the degree they cover the body. On display are long robes or thobes, long coats or abaya and large scarves for head coverings called tarha. But there is a diversity of style, with some streetwear  a hoodie and some shorts are shown  and more fitted and avant garde designs presented.

This exhibit doesnt have a commercial angle. Its meant to give visibility to creativity from a region of the world that has never been exposed to the rest of the world, Saudi Arabias Fashion Commission chief executive officer Burak Cakmak told WWD in an interview at the exhibit. Its open to anybody. Its a free event. You just have to register.

The exhibit represents the starting point to show the level of creativity, said Cakmak, a former dean of the Parsons School of Design. Each of the brands are working on a wholesale collection. The idea is this fall, we will have wholesale collections available for retail. The majority of these designers have never sold outside the country. Several have sold in the region; one or two internationally. The intention is to show the diverse range of products that are designed in the country, but also with the exhibition we challenged them to create a showpiece, not meant as a retail piece, that projects their creativity and represents who they are.

The intent is also to dispel misconceptions about fashion in Saudi Arabia and how people dress there.

From the Saudi 100 exhibit in New York. - Credit: Jared Siskin/PMC

Jared Siskin/PMC

Currently, there are no statistics available on the size of the Saudi fashion industry, though the commission is gathering data to determine that, Cakmak said. Local brands have the ambition to grow internationally and there is a huge appetite for international bands to come to Saudi Arabia, he said.

One thing people dont realize is that life in Saudi includes every kind of product. What is different from the rest of the world is whats public or whats private. That doesnt mean all these products you see in the West are not selling in the East. There is a different way of using the product, but every category is still very much relevant in the region. There are no restrictions. Its really a personal journey of each consumer to decide how they want to dress in the house and outside the house.

The exhibit could travel to other cities, but thats to be determined. To further help the designers, the Saudi government has been setting up mentoring programs and bringing in consultants and experts from fashion houses and academia to guide them.

From the Saudi 100 exhibit in New York. - Credit: Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC

Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC

Asked if international politics could affect the level of acceptance of Saudi design by Americans, Cakmak replied, The intention is to connect creative communities and build a bridge for designers with other creatives, designers and businesses. At the end of the day, individual brands are very much focused on building their own business, and we very much want to focus on the business side with them. This is ultimately letting the creatives shine and helping them grow their business with no other intention. When we see creatives engage with the West, it doesnt matter where they come from. You speak the same language. You are focused on where your inspiration comes from, where the culture comes from and how does that influence each other.

Saudi Arabia is on a growth path across all sectors, including fashion, and there are great opportunities for local entrepreneurs to build new businesses across all parts of the fashion value chain, Cakmak added. A robust fashion sector benefits from local creatives, design studios, marketing and communication agencies, manufacturers and retailers. And through programs like Saudi 100 Brands, we look forward to seeing Saudi designers take their rightful place on the global stage.

The exhibition, which runs from July 26 through Aug. 7, is open Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Iron23, 29 West 23rd Street. Tickets can be reserved at saudi100brands.nyc.

From the Saudi fashion exhibit in New York. - Credit: Jared Siskin/PMC

Jared Siskin/PMC

Launch Gallery: A Look At The Saudi 100 Brands Fashion Exhibition

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Click here to read the full article.
Photo credit: Meyers Manx/Evan Klein

Meyers Manx unveiled the Manx 2.0 Electric Monday evening as a reimagining of the original dune buggy that captured hearts in the 1960s.

The electric buggy is the first vehicle produced under the new leadership which took control of the company shortly before original designer Bruce Meyers's passing.

The 40-kWh battery, the largest of two options, has a 300-mile range and promises 202 horsepower and up to 240 foot-pounds of torque.

In Car and Driver's April 1967 issue, we featured the original Meyers Manx on the cover, front and center. Our road test proclaimed it, "all things to all men." The only thing they could all agree on, we said, was that the Meyers Manx was "more soul-freeing, leaping, bounding, uninhibited fun than anything else they've ever drivenon or off the road."

Fifty five years later, the beloved dune buggy aspires to be all that and more as it gets reimagined for 2023. Announced Monday evening, the Manx 2.0 Electric brings all the adventurous, off-road fun of the original, just powered by a battery.

Photo credit: Evan Klein Courtesy of Meyers Manx

The design of the Manx 2.0 closely follows in the original's footsteps with its rugged yet voluptuous silhouette, but the newest incarnation is a bit more refined than its predecessor, thanks to the enclosed rear to cool the electric motors. No air-cooled Volkswagen Beetle engine hanging out the back here.

Still, the Manx 2.0 stays true to the monocoque chassis legacy of the original, making it lightthe heaviest 2.0 is 1650 poundsand strong on rough terrain. It also features independent rear suspension and regenerative braking, which should shoulder most of the braking load.

Photo credit: Evan Klein Courtesy of Meyers Manx

Inside, the Manx 2.0 will have two battery options: a 20-kWh battery with 150 miles of range or a a 40-kWh battery with 300 miles of range. While the company has yet to release power specs for the smaller battery, the bigger option sends 202 horsepower and up to 240 foot-pounds of torque to the rear wheels through two motors, which should get you to 60 miles per hour in an estimated 4.5 seconds. The motor, inverter, gear train, and brakes will be housed in a single unit.

Photo credit: Elana Scherr - Car and Driver

The first batch, totaling just 50 buggies, will ship in 2023 as part of a beta program, but once the Manx 2.0 reaches a wider audience, it will come with a suite of options like A/C and heat, as well as a smart screen, according to Meyers Manx CEO Freeman Thomas.

Thomas, designer of the New Beetle as well as others like the original Audi TT concept, joined Meyers Manx as CEO in 2020 following the brands acquisition by venture capitalist and Manx enthusiast Phillip Sarofim. Sarofim acquired Meyers Manx from Bruce and Winnie Meyers shortly before Bruce Meyers passed away at age 94 in 2021, and now the duo, according to Freeman, want to "carry his legacy into the future."

Photo credit: Evan Klein Courtesy of Meyers Manx

It's a powerful legacy. Bruce Meyers almost singlehandedly started the kit dune buggy craze when he decided, despite being more acquainted with building sailboats and surfboards, to build a dune buggy out of a Beetle in his Newport Beach, California garage in 1964. It quickly became a sensation after it broke the timed record for a run from Tijuana, Mexico to La Paz over rocky, desert terrain. When the route was organized into the first ever Baja 1000, known as the Mexican 1000 in 1967, the Meyers Manx was crowned the victor.

However, an electric Manx also has a history. Bruce Meyers revived the Meyers Manx brand in 2000, and in 2014 he partnered with Las Vegas-based battery company Rev-TEC to create an electric concept known as the Manx V. The V had 86.3 horsepower and a top speed of 64 miles per hour. Volkswagen, too, got in on the fun with a 2019 concept inspired by the original Manx called the I.D. Buggy.

Certainly, the Meyers Manx has had quite the journey since we put it on our cover all those years ago. However, with the reveal of the Manx 2.0 it's clear that, no matter where the auto industry has gone, seemingly nothing enamors enthusiasts quite like the Manx.

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A Boise woman has been arrested and charged after a hit-and-run accident on Idaho 55 north of Eagle left one person dead Monday night.

Natalie Hodson, 37, was driving a minivan north of Beacon Light Road and south of Seamans Gulch Road when she allegedly struck a 39-year-old woman who had pulled over to check on the trailer she was hauling behind her pickup truck, according to a Tuesday news release from the Ada County Sheriffs Office.

The accident occurred just after 9 p.m. on the highway near Hidden Springs, the release said.

The sheriffs office release said that Hodson  a social media lifestyle influencer who has more 450,000 Facebook followers and over 90,000 Instagram followers  fled the scene and kept driving north, and a witness followed her vehicle until she pulled over on Suttle Lake Drive to the east of Idaho 55.

Court documents obtained by the Idaho Statesman indicated that Hodson faces felony charges of vehicular manslaughter and leaving the scene of an injury accident. The documents also indicated that she was drinking while driving.

Hodsons preliminary court appearance took place in Ada County on Tuesday afternoon, and her bail was set at $50,000. The prosecution said in court that she initially denied drinking or hitting anything, but during an interview with Ada County sheriffs deputies at the Eagle Fire Department, she admitted she drank four alcoholic seltzers and thought she hit a mailbox.

Hodsons bail conditions also include that she remain in Ada County or Boise County until her case is closed; that she not possess or consume illegal drugs or alcohol; and that she not operate a motor vehicle.

She faces up to 15 years in prison and a $15,000 fine for vehicular manslaughter and up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine for leaving the scene.

The documents from the Ada County prosecutors office identified the victim as Kristina Rowley. The Ada County coroner confirmed her identity in a report Tuesday afternoon and said Rowley was from Cascade.

Paramedics transported Rowley to Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead early Tuesday morning, according to the coroners report.

During Hodsons preliminary court appearance on Tuesday, the prosecution said Rowleys 16-year-old son was in the pickup truck at the time of the crash. He was not injured, according to the sheriffs office release.
A migrant sailboat overloaded with people from Haiti arrived in the shallow waters Monday evening off the Middle Florida Keys, federal officials said.

Their arrival comes just two days after a group of more than 300 people from Haiti arrived in a sailboat that grounded off the exclusive Ocean Reef resort community in north Key Largo.

Why some Haitian boat refugees are allowed into the U.S. and others are sent back

Adam Hoffner, division chief for U.S. Customs and Border Protections Miami operations, said agents took 109 people into custody who left the vessel. The Coast Guard said in a statement released on Twitter Tuesday that 14 people stayed on the boat, and those people are in that agencys custody.

The Keys have been the most frequent landing spot for fleeing Cubans and Haitians for more than a year. However, migrant activity within the island chain ramped up dramatically in the past week.

Between Thursday and Monday, the Border Patrol took into custody 372 people, including the Haitian migrants, from a total of 17 landings, according to the agency.

Also last week, the U.S. Coast Guard said it searched for five people who were among a total of 15 from Cuba whose vessel capsized Friday off Sugarloaf Key in the Lower Keys. The agency said Tuesday that the search has been suspended after covering 1,774 square miles of ocean.

Two people from that boat were found dead the day the vessel overturned, and eight others were rescued.

Residents posted on social media that they saw at least 100 people walking through neighborhood streets Monday evening as the group was escorted by local police and federal agents.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
'Beloved' California fire lookout among 4 killed in McKinney Fire, Forest Service says The McKinney Fire damaged the Klamath River Post Office on Highway 96.

A longtime U.S. Forest Service employee was identified Monday as one of the four people killed in the McKinney Fire  California's largest wildfire of 2022.

Kathy Shoopman, 73, was a "beloved" employee and died in her home in the Klamath River community as a result of the fire, according to the U.S. Forest Service. "We share this sorrow with each and every one of you and we know that individually, and as the supportive community that we are, we will find many ways to honor Kathys life and service and keep her spirit in all of our lives," the Forest Service said on Facebook about Shoopman.

The McKinney Fire started July 29 and is the largest wildfire to date this year in California.

Shoopman is one of at least four people who have died in the fire.

Shoopman, according to the Forest Service, started her career as a lookout at Baldy Mountain Lookout, west of Happy Camp, in 1974. She later staffed the Lake Mountain Lookout and Buckhorn lookouts.

All four victims lived in the Klamath River community, which was ordered to evacuate on July 29 as the fire exploded and tore through over 60,000 acres. Crews battling the fire near the California-Oregon border have made progress after a week and 40% of the fire is contained as of Monday.

'IT'S VERY DISHEARTENING': Small Northern California town left in ruins after massive McKinney Fire damages area

"We still have a red flag warning for today for hot, dry, windy conditions and a very unstable atmosphere," said fire behavior analyst Dennis Burns in a morning update from the Cal Fire Siskiyou Unit.

Additional equipment is staged in the probability the fire moves beyond lines or a new fire starts, according to Burns.

The fire has damaged more than 100 homes and other buildings. As of last week, about 5,200 Californians are under evacuation warnings or live in an affected area, and 1,300 people remain under an evacuation order, according to Siskiyou County emergency manager Bryan Schoene.

The Siskiyou County Sheriffs Office reduced some evacuations Monday in the Yreka zones on the east end of the fire. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, however, the region has been long impacted by drought.

Contributing: David Benda, Redding Record Searchlight

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: McKinney Fire victims: California lookout among 4 killed in blaze
Carlos Catarldo Gomez, of Honduras, center, is escorted by Mexican officials in January 2019. He was the first person returned to Mexico to wait for his U.S. asylum trial date as part of the "Remain in Mexico" policy. (Associated Press)

The Biden administration will halt the use of a Trump-era policy that forced migrants seeking asylum to remain in Mexico, after a Supreme Court ruling said the government could unwind the program, according to two U.S. officials.

The administration's action follows a federal judge's ruling to vacate his previous decision to restart the policy.

"Remain in Mexico," formally known as the Migration Protection Protocols Policy, or MPP, forced back more than 60,000 asylum-seekers during the Trump administration, as part of an effort to deter migration at the southern border. Many immigrants faced rape, kidnapping and murder while they languished in Mexico, according to advocacy groups.

Officials with the Department of Homeland Security confirmed the move Monday evening.

"Individuals are no longer being newly enrolled into MPP, and individuals currently in MPP in Mexico will be disenrolled when they return for their next scheduled court date," said Marsha Espinosa, a spokesperson for DHS. "Individuals disenrolled from MPP will continue their removal proceedings in the United States."

In early 2021, the Biden administration began to undo MPP by allowing thousands of people caught up in the program in Mexico to come to the U.S. In June of that year, DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas issued a memo officially ending the policy.

But in August 2021, U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk ordered the government to restart the policy; his order went into effect shortly thereafter. Since then, thousands of migrants have been thrust into the controversial program.

Then, in June, the U.S. Supreme Court said the administration could move forward with its efforts to undo the program. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. wrote the majority opinion, finding that the law did not require the government to return asylum-seekers to Mexico.

On Monday, as a result of the Supreme Court decision, Kacsmaryk vacated his ruling.

Mayorkas wrote in an October 2021 memo terminating the program for a second time that while he understood that the policy likely had led to a downturn in arrivals at the border, it should not continue. He said the policy had imposed "substantial and unjustifiable human costs on the individuals who were exposed to harm while waiting in Mexico. The Biden-Harris administration, by contrast, is pursuing a series of policies that disincentivize irregular migration while incentivizing safe, orderly and humane pathways."

The use of the program waned toward the end of the Trump administration as officials turned toward the pandemic-era rule Title 42, which allows for immediate turn-backs at the border.

The Biden administration continued to use Title 42 before attempting to wind it down in the spring, an effort that was blocked in court.

"DHS is committed to ending the court-ordered implementation of MPP in a quick, and orderly, manner," Espinosa said in the statement. "As Secretary Mayorkas has said, MPP has endemic flaws, imposes unjustifiable human costs and pulls resources and personnel away from other priority efforts to secure our border."





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
President Biden on Monday, when asked about his low approval ratings and for a response to the notion that his polls were terrible, said he foresees a change.

Its a long way home. The fact is that weve been divided for so long, and its only recently that we have any kind of movement, and I think youre going to see a lot change, Biden told reporters in Lexington after he toured damage from deadly floods in eastern Kentucky.

With the midterm elections exactly three months away, recent polling shows Bidens approval rating just shy of 40 percent, where its stubbornly stayed for the last several months.

A Gallup poll released late last month reported a 38 percent approval rating, a new low for Biden. His approval rating began at 57 percent and was at 41 percent in June, according to the same survey.

Facing historical and political headwinds, Democrats are hoping a recent string of legislative victories can boost the partys standing by the time voters head to the polls in November.

Senate Democrats on Sunday passed a sweeping package on taxes, climate change and health care, which included some longtime liberal priorities.

That party-line package now heads to the House, but Biden this week will sign two major bills into law that recently passed with bipartisan support.

Biden on Tuesday will sign into law a $280 billion bill to strengthen the domestic chip manufacturing industry and finance scientific research, and on Wednesday he will sign another bill to expand health care to veterans exposed to toxic burn pits.

Democrats also saw glimmers of hope in Kansans rejection of a ballot question that would have removed abortion rights from the state constitution, with the measure passing with nearly 60 percent support in the traditionally red state.

Prominent analysts indicate Republicans are still heavy favorites to take the House in November, but recent polling shows Democrats making gains on the generic ballot question.



Poll aggregator FiveThirtyEight as of Monday evening gave Republicans a 4 in 5 chance of winning the House while indicating Democrats had a 59 percent chance of maintaining Senate control, a significant shift since suggesting Republicans were the favorites as of just two weeks ago.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Boise-based Micron Technology Inc. says it will invest $40 billion in memory manufacturing in the U.S., thanks to the semiconductor-industry subsidy President Joe Biden signed Tuesday.

The investment will create about 40,000 U.S. jobs, including approximately 5,000 highly paid technical and operational roles at Micron and 35,000 support and community jobs, Micron said in a news release and a video. It will be the biggest investment in memory manufacturing in U.S. history, the company said.

This legislation will enable Micron to grow domestic production of memory from less than 2% to up to 10% of the global market in the next decade, making the U.S. home to the most advanced memory manufacturing and R&D in the world, CEO Sanjay Mehrotra said in the release.

CEO Sanjay Mehrotra has led Micron Technology since 2017. He traveled to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday to attend President Joe Bidens signing of the CHIPS and Science Act.

Micron told the Idaho Statesman on Friday that it plans a mega fab in the U.S. that would employ 3,000 to 5,000 people and lead to 10,000 new jobs in all, including non-Micron jobs. But it hasnt said whether it would build that fab in Boise or elsewhere.

Fab is short for semiconductor fabrication, the manufacturing plants where DRAM, dynamic random-access memory, and NAND flash memory are produced. Micron is the only manufacturer of DRAM in the U.S.

Micron has research-and-development fabs at its Boise headquarters, but its only U.S. fab making chips for sale is in Virginia. The rest of its chips are made overseas, mostly in Asia.

On Tuesday, Mehrotra and Boise Mayor Lauren McLean traveled to the White House to witness the signing ceremony for the CHIPS and Science Act. Micron thanked the Biden administration and Congress for the law. The city paid for McLeans $1,513 trip from its economic development budget, a spokesperson for McLean said.

Asked about criticism of the bills taxpayer-funded subsidy of one industrial sector, Mehrotra told CNBCs Squawk Box that the bill is really leveling the playing field and is important for national security. The U.S. depends heavily on foreign semiconductor manufacturing, including in Taiwan, the independent island nation that China claims as its own and is the center of rising tensions between the U.S. and China.

Over the past couple of decades, foreign countries, especially in Asia, have invested hundreds of billions of dollars in providing incentives to bring semiconductor manufacturing to their shores, Mehrotra said. This is what has resulted in 37% of manufacturing of semiconductors at the turn of the century to now being really 12% of semiconductor manufacturing here in the U.S. This is what we have to reverse.

Production is 35% to 45% cheaper in Asia than in the U.S., Mehrotra said.

Micron said it is completing specific U.S. expansion plans and will share more about them in the coming weeks.

The company previously said it would invest $150 billion worldwide in manufacturing and R&D over the next decade. It was not immediately clear if the remaining $110 billion would all be invested abroad.

Micron is Idahos largest for-profit employer of Idahoans, with about 7,000 workers in the Treasure Valley, mostly at its headquarters on Federal Way in Southeast Boise. It is the second-largest U.S. semiconductor manufacturer after Intel, which does not make memory chips.

Boise City Hall reporter Ian Stevenson contributed.

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With sales tax exemption from the Idaho Legislature, will Micron expand its Boise campus?
James Franco, right, has been cast as Fidel Castro in a new film. (Max Nash / Chris Pizzello / Associated Press)

In Hollywood, truth is stranger than fiction.

On Thursday, Deadline announced that James Franco, he of "Pineapple Express" and "This Is the End," had been cast as Cuban dictator Fidel Castro in "Alina of Cuba," a biopic inspired by the life of his estranged daughter, Alina Fernandez.

On Friday, after the casting of a white U.S. actor in the role of a prominent Latin American political figure had drawn widespread condemnation online (including some very pointed criticism from actor John Leguizamo), one of the film's producers came forth with an explanation.

"[W]e used Fidel Castros ancient Galician heraldry as our focal compass, and then combed through the entire ranks of actors with Latin roots in Hollywood to find someone who has a similar facial structure, said producer John Martinez O'Felan in a statement.

In executing a close search into our hopefuls through the eye of Spanish and Portuguese genealogy which the Galicians held, we found that James, by far, had the closest facial likeness of our industrys leading actors, meaning that the focus would be to build out his character accent and wed have a stunning on-screen match to intrigue audiences and bring the story to life with true visual integrity.

No, I am not quoting the Onion. That is a real statement from the film's producer.

Alina Fernandez, daughter of Fidel Castro, is the subject of a planned biopic. (Gerald Herbert / Associated Press)

Those involved with the project have taken great pains to point out that the film features Latino actors in other roles, including Cuban Salvadoran Ana Villafane in the title role of Fernandez and Argentinean Mia Maestro as Natalia "Naty" Revuelta, Fernandez's mother. On Saturday, Fernandez herself expressed support for the decision to cast Franco. As she told Deadline: "James Franco has an obvious physical resemblance with Fidel Castro, besides his skills and charisma."

Never mind that Franco's casting does nothing for Latino representation in U.S. film, which is generallyatrocious. Never mind that this contributes to an ongoing erasure of Latinos in U.S. popular culture. Never mind that studios spent the months following the 2020 uprisings talking about "pipelines" and "inclusion" only to serve up Franco (who, it's also worth noting, has faced allegations of bad behavior from multiple female colleagues and students). Never mind that Latino audiences in the U.S. are continuously subjected to terrible on-screen Spanish. Never mind the convoluted DNA-speak about "Galician heraldry."

Is James Franco, a guy who generally has the demeanor of someone who's been dipping into Pineapple Express, really the best guy to portray a caffeinated Cuban dictator? A leader who, regardless of what you may have thought of his politics, was a magnetic orator who holds the record for longest speech before the United Nations General Assembly between 1945 and 1976?

Did some producer really watch footage of Castro's 4-hour marathon speech, whose transcript comes to 40 single-spaced letter-sized pages if printed, and say to themselves: what if we got that guy who could barely host an Oscars telecast? And then, when people asked why this plum role  of perhaps the most prominent Latin American leader of the 20th century  couldn't maybe go to a Latino actor, respond by producing a statement that reads like the end user license agreement for 23andMe?

It's like a plotline from "The Producers."

In that popular musical, a pair of Broadway moneymen try to enrich themselves by intentionally producing a Broadway flop. Which got me thinking...

Why just whitewash the role of Fidel Castro? Why not create the most whitewashed, un-Cuban-est version of "Alina of Cuba"  a "House of the Spirits" for the new millennium, a "Perez Family" for the internet age ? If you're going to whitewash, GO ALL THE WAY. Make it so awkward and unbearable that people will remember it with the same embarrassed wonder they generally reserve for that hot tub sex scene in "Showgirls."

Inspired by what is obviously an incredible, moneymaking idea, I called up Rosa Lowinger, the Cuban-born, L.A.-based author of "Tropicana Nights: The Life and Times of the Legendary Cuban Nightclub." Together, we cast a whole new picture that people will be talking about for decades. Our working title: "Springtime for Castro."

Here's our dream team:

Fidel Castro: Played by James Franco, obvi. He has the scraggly beard. And, as we've already established, his ancestors hail from the same 4 million-square-mile continent as Castro's. Franco will have to work to "build out" his accent, but he'll get bonus points from us if he mangles the 'r' in companero!  a.k.a. "comrade" in Cuban. That will be part of the film's charm.

Ernesto "Che" Guevara: Seth Rogen is our shoo-in for the Argentinean revolutionary, of course. He could even do a "Motorcycle Diaries" prequel. I mean, the GIFs already exist.

Fulgencio Batista: The role of the Cuban dictator whom Castro toppled goes to Nathan Lane channeling his best Gomez from "The Addams Family" musical. Also, he was pretty great in "The Producers."

Camilo Cienfuegos: Cienfuegos was the hottest of Fidel's companeros, known for his love of the dance floor and the ladies. He was presumed dead after a plane crash at sea in the revolution's early days, before the regime had ossified into autocratic rule. A martyr taken too soon? Or is Cienfuegos secretly living in Las Vegas? Either way, it's the ideal role for Adam Driver.

Naty Revuelta: The socialite who sold off her jewels to support the barbudos (the bearded ones) in their earliest days, even sewing uniforms for them, Revuelta was known as "one of the most exquisitely beautiful women in Cuba." She had an affair with Castro in the 1950s (while he was still married to his wife, Mirta Diaz-Balart) and that union produced a daughter, Alina. The Revuelta character couldn't be more suited to Catherine Zeta-Jones. It would be a perfect marriage of two previous roles the Welsh performer has inhabited: the wily heroine of "Zorro" and the ruthless drug lord in Lifetime's "Cocaine Godmother."

Alina Fernandez: Long estranged from her father (Castro only belatedly recognized her as his daughter), Fernandez famously fled Cuba in her 30s disguised as a Spanish tourist and later became an outspoken anti-communist activist. Zooey Deschanel is the perfect fit. Both she and Alina share brown hair DNA.

Ruby Hart Phillips: She's the New York Times reporter who covered the Cuban Revolution in its earliest days. We're gonna go with Nicole Kidman, because this is obviously an ensemble picture with lots of star power. But as part of the narrative, she sleeps with a revolutionary, because in Hollywoodland, that's the sort of thing female journalists do.

CIA Agent: Every movie set amid a revolution in Latin America needs a CIA agent. We nominate Vin Diesel since he acquitted himself nicely racing cars all over Havana's Malecon in "The Fate of the Furious." More importantly, this will draw action fans to this important historical drama.

If you are a Hollywood producer and would like to option what promises to be a poignant piece of cinematic history, please get in touch with The Times' rights and clearances department. Our lawyers are standing by.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Mongolian PM meets with Chinese FM

Xinhua) 08:43, August 09, 2022

ULAN BATOR, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Mongolian Prime Minister and Chairman of the Mongolian People's Party (MPP) Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene met with Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi here on Sunday.

Asking Wang to convey his sincere greetings to Chinese leaders, Oyun-Erdene thanked China for providing Mongolia with vaccines and anti-pandemic supplies and helping Mongolia protect the health and well-being of its people, which fully proved that "a friend in need is a friend indeed."

The Mongolian side takes neighboring countries as priorities in its foreign policy, regards China as a good neighbor that is more valuable than gold, and looks forward to deepening synergy of development strategies with China so as to accelerate cooperation in various fields between the two countries.

Noting that the MPP has just celebrated its centenary, Oyun-Erdene wished the upcoming 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) a complete success, and hoped to strengthen exchanges with the CPC at a new starting point and learn from the experience of governing the country and the party.

Oyun-Erdene emphasized that Mongolia firmly believes that any country's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and independent choice of development path should be respected.

He also stressed that Mongolia firmly supports the one-China principle, and opposes interference by external forces in China's internal affairs such as issues related to Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang and Hong Kong.

China is a responsible major country and represents the future of Asia, he said, adding that China's development is in line with the common interests of Asian countries.

Mongolia firmly supports China, a friendly neighbor, in its further development, and hopes to achieve common development and prosperity with China, he added.

Wang conveyed Chinese leaders' cordial greetings to Oyun-Erdene, saying that China and Mongolia are linked by mountains and waters, and the only right choice for both sides is peace and friendship, mutual benefit and win-win, as well as mutual understanding and support.

China appreciates Mongolia's firm adherence to the one-China principle and its support for China to safeguard its core interests, Wang said.

China also respects Mongolia's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and supports the country in choosing a development path that suits its own national conditions in accordance with the aspirations of the Mongolian people, as well as in facilitating a stable governance and focusing on development, he added.

Wang said that China has always pursued a good-neighborliness policy and friendship featuring amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, always been accommodating the comfort of its neighbors and willing to share China's development opportunities.

China places the promotion of China-Mongolia friendly cooperation at an important position in its neighborhood diplomacy, Wang said, adding that no matter how China develops in the future, this policy will not change.

Citing an old saying that when brothers are of the same mind, they can cut through metal, Wang said the Chinese side is willing to work with Mongolia to deepen the three alignments between China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolia's Prairie Road development strategy, the Global Development Initiative and Mongolia's New Revival Policy, and China's "two-stage" strategic plan and Mongolia's long-term development policy, so as to create three engines for further development of bilateral relations and inject strong impetus into mutually beneficial and friendly cooperation between the two countries.

The two sides also had an in-depth exchange of views on governance and development experience and future plans for practical cooperation. They agreed that the two countries should maintain high-level exchanges and inter-party exchanges, and be committed to building great enterprise of century-old parties and speed up their respective development and revitalization.

In addition, the two sides agreed to promote the construction of ports and passages, improve the efficiency of customs clearance, build up major demonstration projects in fields of infrastructure and energy, and strengthen youth exchanges and local cooperation.

Wang also said that China and Mongolia enjoy high economic complementarity, and China is ready to help Mongolia transform its resource endowments into development advantages and tangible development achievements.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Could the Columbus-Auburn-Opelika area become a regional technology hub? Will Columbus State University get more federal grant dollars?

Both are possibilities after President Joe Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 on Tuesday, U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock told the Ledger-Enquirer in an interview.

The bipartisan bill passed by Congress in late July includes more than $52 billion for U.S. companies producing computer chips with billions more in tax breaks via tax credits that incentivize chip manufacturing  a move that will help area manufacturers like KIA as well Pratt and Whitney.

Beyond that, the legislation directs the National Science Foundation to use $10 billion to create roughly 20 regional technology hubs. The foundation will also receive $81 billion over five years, and a portion of those funds will be to strengthen research capacity at historically Black colleges and universities as well as other small institutions.

Warnock said Columbus is one of the Georgia cities well positioned to take advantage of the new legislation.

It means jobs, jobs, jobs, he said. It means investment in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education and the future workforce.

A February 2022 file photo of U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock talks about his new mental health legislation proposal, named the Advancing Student Services in Schools Today (ASSIST) Act, Tuesday morning during a visit to Dorothy Height Elementary School in Columbus, Georgia.

Tech hub and research funding

Language in the act directs the U.S. Department of Commerce to use a merit, review-based process to designate the 20 regional technology and innovation hubs.

The hubs must be geographically dispersed throughout the country, and a third of the hubs must significantly benefit a small and rural community.

Columbus is considered one of 102 prime locations for technology hubs based on research from MIT professors Jonathan Gruber and Simon Johnson, authors of Jump-Starting America, Warnock said.

The Columbus-Auburn-Opelika area ranks 81 on the list. The rankings take into account the number of people ages 25-64 living in the area, home prices, crime, top science graduate programs, the number of science undergraduates and other various data points.

Other Georgia cities to make the Jump-Starting America list include Atlanta, Savannah and Warner Robins. Atlanta is ranked 13, while Savannah (99) and Warner Robins (101) fall below Columbus.

We need to make sure that the incredible human potential doesnt leave Columbus for the West Coast, Warnock said. This is a part of our state with a lot of smart people... These tech hubs would look to bring together government, the private sector (and) university resources to spur innovation, which is the fuel for our economy.

As a smaller institution, Columbus State could gain from the expanded pool of federal STEM funding promised. One NSF program that Columbus State University currently participates in, the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program, should see a 50% increase in the number of scholarships awarded over the next five years, according to the bill.

Columbus State University students walk on campus.

The Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program gives funding to higher education institutions to provide scholarships, stipends and support for STEM majors seeking to become K-12 educators.

Kimberly Shaw, a Columbus State University physics professor, helped secure a nearly $1.2 million grant through the Robert Noyce program in 2019. The five-year program awards scholarships to junior or senior students who are in math, science or computer science degree programs, and the students will receive teacher certification.

She told the L-E that the federal grant funding typically goes to larger universities, so the bill will give smaller academic institutions a better fighting chance.

Shaw said the Robert Noyce program makes the community better because it provides Columbus area schools with better math and science teachers. Those teachers will mentor the next generation of STEM workers. Businesses want to know that their workforce is well educated. Employees want to know that schools have talented math and science teachers.

Programs like this bring businesses and employees but it also helps to keep them in the Columbus area, Shaw added.

The idea that Columbus State will actually be able to better compete for these funds to provide better education for our students is really important workforce development, and I cant highlight that enough, she said. This is going to be a game changer for a lot of (Columbus State and Muscogee County students.)
Japanese designer Issey Miyake in Tokyo in 2016. (Kyodo News)

Issey Miyake, who built one of Japans biggest fashion brands and was known for his boldly sculpted pleated pieces as well as former Apple CEO Steve Jobs black turtlenecks, has died. He was 84.

Miyake died Friday of liver cancer, the Miyake Design Office said Tuesday.

Miyake defined an era in Japans modern history, reaching stardom in the 1970s among a generation of designers and artists who reached global fame by defining a Japanese vision that was unique from the West.

Miyakes origami-like pleats transformed usually crass polyester into chic. He also used computer technology in weaving to create apparel. His down-to-earth clothing was meant to celebrate the human body regardless of race, build, size or age.

Miyake even detested being called a fashion designer, choosing not to identify with what he saw as frivolous, trend-watching, conspicuous consumption.

Again and again, Miyake returned to his basic concept of starting with a single piece of cloth, be it draped, folded, cut or wrapped.

Over the years, he took inspiration from a variety of cultures and societal motifs, as well as everyday items  plastic, rattan, washi paper, jute, horsehair, foil, yarn, batik, indigo dyes and wiring.

He sometimes evoked images of Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, or collaborated with Japanese painter Tadanori Yokoo on images of monkeys and foliage in vibrant, psychedelic hues.

He also collaborated with furniture and interior designer Shiro Kuramata, photographer Irving Penn, choreographer and director Maurice Bejart, pottery maker Lucie Rie and the Ballet Frankfurt.

In 1992, Miyake was commissioned to design the official Olympic uniform for Lithuania, which had just gained independence from the Soviet Union.

Born in Hiroshima in 1938, Miyake was a star as soon as he hit the European runways. His brown top, which combined the Japanese sewn fabric sashiko with raw silk knit, was splashed on the cover of the September 1973 issue of Elle magazine.

Miyake was also a pioneer on gender issues. In the 1970s, he asked feminist Fusae Ichikawa, who was in her 80s, to be his model, sending the message that garments must be comfortable and express the natural beauty of real people.

Although he made clothes that went beyond the mundane, appearing to reach for the spiritual, he made a point never to become pretentious, always approving of the T-shirt-and-jeans look.

Designing is like a living organism in that it pursues what matters for its well-being and continuity, Miyake once wrote in his book.

His office confirmed that a private funeral had already been held, with no other ceremonies expected, in accordance with Miyake's wishes. Miyake kept his family life private, and survivors are not known.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Republican primary for Kansas Treasurer remains razor tight, but candidates will have to decide whether or not to seek a recount before results are finalized in three of the states biggest counties.

State Rep. Steven Johnson, an Assaria Republican, is vying with state Sen. Caryn Tyson, a Parker Republican, for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic Treasurer Lynn Rogers in November.

Johnson led the race by 369 votes as of Monday afternoon after 13 of Kansas 105 counties had certified their election results.

The results of the primary are likely to come down to the more than 24,000 provisional ballots statewide, many of which have not yet been counted across the state. Three of Kansas four largest counties  Johnson, Sedgwick and Shawnee  are not scheduled to count their provisional ballots and certify their results until next Monday, Kansas Director of Elections Bryan Caskey told reporters Monday.

Our office proposed legislation to fix this anomaly and it did not pass in the most recent legislative session, Caskey said.

Counties hold their canvasses after the election to determine which provisional ballots can legally be counted, count them and certify their results. Under Kansas law candidates that request a recount are responsible for putting up a bond to pay for the cost of the recount. If the candidate requesting the recount wins following the recount, there will be no action taken on the bond and the counties will bear the cost.

Requests for recount must be made by 5 p.m. Friday.

J.R. Claeys, a state senator and spokesman for Johnsons campaign, said the campaign was watching the provisional ballots closely and havent seen major changes.

Were not seeing the type of consistency that we saw in the results in 2018 so anything can happen but we cant have the Republican going in at a disadvantage to a Democratic incumbent in the race so our candidate is proceeding currently as if we have won the race, said Claeys, who had managed Republican Kris Kobachs 2018 campaign for governor.

Kobach, who won a historically close primary against Gov. Jeff Colyer to secure the GOP nomination, went on to lose to Democrat Laura Kelly.

In a statement, Tyson said she was grateful for the support across the state.

We are watching as each county updates their vote totals, she said without saying whether she would seek a recount.

At the end of the initial count in the treasurer race on election night last week, the candidates were split by less than 1%, which triggered an automatic enhanced audit of the election under a new state law. Each county to hand count 10% of its precincts to ensure the counts accuracy.

No serious irregularities have emerged so far, Caskey said.
Five years ago Chiloe Chervenell tried to turn a corner on a troubled past when she opened a cafe in downtown Kennewick.

Pictures posted on Facebook at that time showed her with her longtime partner Kathleen Kathy Chervenell-Brinson and the two children they cared for as a happy family.

But a protection order petition filed four months ago, revealed their relationship was in ruins, fueled by Chervenells drug and gambling addictions and a series of felons invited into their home.

She is a good person when those addiction demons are not on her back, but she needs help, wrote Chervenell-Brinson. She puts the children and me at risk every single day.

Chervenell-Brinson, a Kamiakin High grad who taught briefly in the Othello School District and ran for mayor in Mesa, was granted the order and custody of her partners biological kids.

Then last Thursday evening, Franklin County sheriffs deputies were alerted that Chervenell, 49, had sent an alarming text to a friend.

She said shed gone to Mesa, about 25 miles north of the Tri-Cities, to talk to her wife and didnt know the power of her hands and killed her wife, according to court records.

At the time, no one had heard from Chervenell-Brinson, 54, since 10 a.m. Wednesday.

As investigators were tracking Chervenells cellphone signal, a deputy discovered Chervenell-Brinsons body underneath a pile of bicycles and other items on her Mesa porch.

The two children, both under 12, were missing.

They were found safe several hours later south of Tri-Cities in Oregon, sleeping in a car with Chervenell, said court documents.

Turbulent relationship

The protection order petition Chervenell-Brinson filed in April says the couple had a turbulent and violent relationship over the course of 10 years. It was not clear Monday if they were officially married.

In recent months the violence had only gotten worse as Chervenell turned back to drugs, said court records.

In an attempt to protect Chervenells children from her dangerous lifestyle, then-Court Commissioner Diana Ruff agree to the protection order.

Chervenell was to stay 300 feet away from their First Avenue home and could only meet with her kids twice a week for a couple hours with professional supervision.

Chervenell-Brinson hoped that would be enough motivation for Chervenell to get sober.

Once Chiloe loses her kids, she immediately begins doing anything necessary to get clean, stop illegal activities and get legit employment, Chervenell-Brinson said in her request.

12-step club

Just five years earlier, Chervenell appeared to be on the verge of turning a corner by opening a small cafe in the Tri-City Alano Club in downtown Kennewick, according to a Tri-City Herald story at the time.

The small restaurant space was attached to the social club, which supports recovery groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

The Mesa resident opened up Chiloes Corner 12 Step Cafe with the help of a $5,000 loan. She had hoped to turn the corner from her troubles, including drug addiction and several prison terms.

While she didnt point to any particular 12-step program, she told the Herald at the time it was compatible with the life she was building for herself.

She opened the cafe because she said her past made it hard to find legitimate work.

At the time time, Chervenell-Brinson had left the Othello School District after teaching for a few months and ran for Mesa City Council.

Chervenell suffered some medical issues and eventually her plans fell apart. She announced plans to close the eatery in September 2018, according to a Facebook post.

Domestic violence

Chervenell-Brinsons petition lays out a troubling 10-year relationship between the women. She said Chervenell would often choke her.

The most violent incident ended with her on the bathroom floor convulsing.

I remember distinctly feeling at peace, warm and light, Chervenell-Brinson wrote. I came to with her standing over me yelling at me to stop faking it.

The friend they were living with at the time heard the exchange and told her that if she ever laid a finger on me again he would never give her another dime.

That stopped the violence for seven years though she would still try to corner Chervenell-Brinson and scream as loud as she could in her ear. The screaming often included threats.

Chiloe has always used my commitment to our children as a means to control me and if I crossed the line, she would always threaten to take them away from me, keep me from seeing them, she wrote.

Then on Feb. 4, the violence started again, she said.

The day before Chervenell and her new girlfriend and a fellow felon, Samantha Tijerina, took the children on a drive to Pasco.

When Chervenell-Brinson looked through one of the childrens phones, it looked like they had brought the kids along as they were dealing drugs.

When Chervenell-Brinson confronted Chervenell about the trip, she started yelling and lunged at her., grabbing her by the throat and choked her while screaming.

She made many threats against me, but the one that stood out the most is, I will kill you if you ever say that again. She would kill me. She had already nearly accomplished that years earlier.

On Feb. 7, she broke into Chervenell-Brinsons room and found the spare key to her handgun safe. She said she took one of weapons for protection, but gave it back when Chervenell-Brinson challenged her.

Downward spiral

Chervenell-Brinson said Chervenell and Tijerina were in a downward spiral of drug use that was an imminent threat to the children.

Chervenell had crashed four cars after falling asleep behind the wheel. The most recent was on April 13.

Chervenell-Brinsons main concern was for a series of felons who were invited into their home, including a registered sex offender, Jose Monzon.

She was advised to get a protection order against Monzon, because of his drug history, said her protection order request.

In addition, she said Chervenell often neglected the children, leaving them to fend for herself.

While the couple had previously filed to have Chervenell-Brinson become the childrens legal guardian, that had fallen apart.

I have endured 10 years of trauma to be with and protect children I chose to accept as my own, Chervenell-Brinson wrote.

The last six years, I have been a champion in this regard but these last months brought me to my limit. I alone cannot protect them from how far down she has gone.

Chervenell is being held on murder and kidnapping charges in Oregon, pending extradition to Washington.
This story was produced by Fresnoland, a nonprofit news organization that partners with The Fresno Bee.

Focusing their message on a lack of urgency to renew Measure C this year, the Fresno Coalition for Responsible Transportation Spending urged the Fresno City Council to reject the resolution to put the $7 billion transportation spending plan on the ballot this November. The current version of the tax does not expire until 2027.

The Fresno City Council and the city councils in Huron, San Joaquin, Coalinga as well as the Fresno County Board of Supervisors are scheduled to vote this week on the measure.

The speakers at a news conference in Calwa including Milena Alvarez, youth representative, Friends of Calwa, Marianne Kast, president of the League of Women Voters of Fresno, Rocio Madrigal, outreach specialist at Central California Environmental Justice Network, and Jason Martinez, a carpenter with the Local 701 Carpenters Union, said that Fresno County still has more than five years to develop long-term priorities for transportation spending, taking into account public health, climate change, and affordability.

Were not opposed to it; we just want to postpone it, said Jason Martinez, a carpenter with the Local 701 Carpenters Union. Just as all carpenters like to do, we like to always ensure we get it right the first time.

Kast said the Fresno County Transportation Authority should lead the county to meet state climate change goals instead of simply giving cash-strapped cities a chunk of change to use as they choose.

We call that a slush fund, Kast said. Will the small cities with their windfalls of [Measure C] cash choose to improve transportation for residents or be able to build significant sidewalks, bike paths or other features that get folks out of their cars?

Calwa leader calls out Jerry Dyer for Calwa annexation process

Also during the news conference, Laura Moreno, the executive director of Friends of Calwa, said that the negotiations and implementation details for the annexation of Calwa by the city of Fresno has not gone beyond the closed-door meetings between Fresno City officials, Fresno City councilmember Luis Chavez and Fresno County Supervisor Sal Quintero.

On July 8, leaders of the city of Fresno and county officials made a last-second revision to the $7 billion spending plan and reached a compromise, placing Measure C on the November 2022 ballot.

In order to get the support of the Fresno City Council, which threatened to create a transportation sales tax of its own if funding gaps for public transit were not rectified, a coalition of county decision makers, led by Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, siphoned $185 million in future Measure C revenues away from Fresno County and toward rural and urban cities.

To sweeten the deal, the city of Fresno offered to annex a 119-acre, largely residential, plot of land located in Calwa, a southeast Fresno fringe community.

But a month later, nothing much has happened, Moreno said.

They bargain with each other, but yet they leave the community out of their meetings, Moreno said. Jerry Dyer doesnt care about anybody but Jerry Dyer.

Dyer said that the city is still trying to figure out how to get the annex deal done.

We are in the initial discovery phase to determine the feasibility of the annexation of Calwa, he said in a statement to Fresnoland on Monday. Any effort to pursue the annexation will include extensive community outreach and in-depth discussion with the Board of Supervisors.

Moreno compared the citys annexation efforts to the community engagement process for Measure C, adding that she is still waiting for local leaders to factor local neighborhoods into the infrastructure decision-making process.

All were asking for is to be included in the process of finding out if its beneficial for Calwa, she said. If its not beneficial, and Dyer is doing it just because he wants more industrial development, then I know were not for annexation.

Gregory Weaver is a freelance journalist based in Californias central San Joaquin Valley. He can be reached at gweav37@gmail.com. This story was written in partnership with Fresnoland.
A California Department of Transportation engineer was struck and killed while working late Sunday evening near Fresno, according to the department.

Ali Shabazz, 48, of Fresno, was on duty and heading to a job site when he was struck by another vehicle, according to an email Caltrans Director Tony Tavares sent to employees Monday afternoon. A Caltrans news release said only that the collision occurred at a rural intersection.

Shabazz had worked for the department since 2006 and was a civil engineer in construction, according to Tavares email. He left behind a wife and eight children.

Gov. Gavin Newsom offered his sympathies in a Monday statement. Shabazz was the 191st Caltrans worker to die on the job since 1921, according to the email from Newsoms office.

A memorial has been set up for Shabazz through the California Transportation Foundation, and the department is lowering flags to half-staff in his honor, according to the email.
A driver fill tanks at a Shell gas station in Los Angeles. Gas prices have dropped to their lowest level since March. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times)

Southern California drivers are getting more relief at the gas pump, with the average cost of a gallon of regular gas in Los Angeles County slipping below $5.50.

Gas prices have fallen from recent record highs nationwide because oil prices and gasoline demand have declined and gasoline supplies have increased, analysts said. But oil and gasoline prices are volatile creatures, and market watchers are mixed about when gas prices might drop below $5 a gallon in the state.

A gallon of regular gasoline cost $5.48 on average Monday in L.A. County, down nearly a dollar since peaking June 14 at $6.46, according to the American Automobile Assn. That's the lowest price since March 7.

L.A. County's average price put it at the No. 10 spot among 31 California markets tracked by AAA. The San Luis Obispo area was the most expensive at $5.80 a gallon; El Centro was the cheapest at $5.15 a gallon.

California's prices remain the highest in the nation, with a statewide average at $5.45, well above the national average of $4.06, AAA data show.

GasBuddy.com oil analyst Patrick De Haan predicts that per-gallon gas costs are likely to drop below $5 in L.A. County and statewide, barring unforeseen disruptions or significant changes in supply and demand.

The main drivers for decreasing gas prices, De Haan said, include a slowing economy, which could limit oil consumption, and declining crude oil prices helped by traders anticipating the possible return of Iranian oil to the global market as the U.S. and Iran move closer to negotiations on reviving Iran's 2015 nuclear deal.

"There's been a lot of flare-ups and geopolitical tensions that could weigh on markets at some point," De Haan said.

"For now, we have pretty good odds that L.A. will get under the $5 mark, but it will take time," De Haan said.

Gas below $5 can be found in L.A., with the two lowest prices on East 3rd Street at Berri Brothers ($4.59) and Arco ($4.65) in East Los Angeles, according to GasBuddy.

Doug Shupe, communications manager for AAA, is more uncertain about if and when Californians could see $5 gasoline become widely available.

"We don't know what we're gonna see here in Southern California," Shupe said. "We're hopefully going to see more relief at the pump for drivers.... We just don't know how long that trend will continue."

Shupe said one factor affecting the pump would be holiday travel as people gear up for the Labor Day holiday in early September.

"People are still prioritizing their budgets to take their family road trips this summer," Shupe said. "And that's what we saw both over Memorial Day and for the Fourth of July. And it's also what we're expecting to see for the Labor Day holiday as well."

AAA recently released a survey that found 64% of U.S. adults have changed their driving habits since March in response to high gas prices. The top three changes are driving less, combining errands and reducing shopping or dining out.

However, De Haan said he believes drivers are not changing their habits significantly enough to affect gasoline's price.

Gas consumption is only 5% to 8% below the usual level for this time of year, and although that has increased the supply slightly, it isn't near the levels predicted, De Haan said.

"That we're seeing prices go down has nothing to do with a very small decrease in demand," he said.

The price of crude oil is the most significant component of gasoline costs, representing 60% of the price per gallon, the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimated. And this component continues to remain high.

While millions are paying hefty prices at the pump, oil and natural gas companies are raking in the profits. Last month, the five largest oil and natural gas companies reported a combined $55 billion in second-quarter profits.

De Haan said the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, alongside the pandemic, is still a factor in the high prices.

"Now, as the economy ramps back up, very little is able to keep pace with the rebound," including oil production, De Haan said. "So we're not going to get back to normal until we completely normalize in a post-COVID world and until the war in Ukraine is over."

After the crisis in Ukraine began Feb. 25, the price of crude oil steadily hovered above $90 a barrel, reaching a height of more than $120. On Thursday, the price fell below the $90 mark for the first time since February.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts (R) on Monday reversed his plan to call a special session of the state legislature to pass a 12-week abortion ban after an insufficient number of lawmakers indicated they would support such a measure.

Ricketts had vowed to call the special session after the draft Supreme Court opinion overturning Roe v. Wade leaked, but the governor said on Monday, months after the actual decision dropped, that he had received a letter from the state speaker revealing a vote would not have the 33 state senators needed for passage.

It is deeply saddening that only 30 Nebraska state senators are willing to come back to Lincoln this fall in order to protect innocent life, the governor said in a statement, which comes less than a week after voters in neighboring Kansas rejected a ballot initiative that would have allowed its lawmakers to restrict abortion.

The proposal to change Nebraskas state law that prohibits abortions starting at 20 weeks and reduce that to 12 weeks is a measured, reasonable step to protect more preborn babies in our state, Ricketts added.

After the Supreme Court earlier this summer overturned Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey, rejecting a constitutional right to abortion, red states saw a flurry of activity seeking to restrict the procedure.

Some states had previously passed so-called trigger laws that automatically implemented abortion restrictions following the courts ruling, while Republican leaders in other states, like Nebraska, promised to call special legislative sessions to quickly pass new restrictions.

I ask all Nebraskans who are pro-life to look at the list of state senators who signed the letter, Ricketts said, urging residents to call their lawmakers.

Indianas governor on Friday signed a near-total ban on the procedure, the first state to approve abortion restrictions following the courts ruling.

The law will take effect on Sept. 15 and includes exceptions in cases of rape, incest, protecting the health of the patient or when the fetus has a lethal anomaly. Abortions would also be permitted up to 10 weeks post-fertilization.

In Nebraska, patients must receive counseling designed to discourage them from having an abortion and wait 24 hours before undergoing the procedure, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a pro-abortion nonprofit.

Most of the free world has more reasonable abortion laws than Nebraska, Ricketts said.

Over 75 percent of countries around the world have placed restrictions on abortion at 12 weeks, he continued. Our 20-week abortion ban puts us in line with a narrow ten percent of countries  including countries like North Korea and China  that fail to protect preborn babies.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Welcome to NC Voices, where leaders, readers and experts from across North Carolina can speak on issues affecting our communities. Send submissions of 350 words or fewer to opinion@charlotteobserver.com.

My patients in rural NC need help

Rural America is often criticized for a monolithic culture, politics and populace, which makes it easy to stereotype and blame for its health issues. However, it is most unified by a lack of healthcare access.

As clinic co-coordinator and social needs navigator for the free, student-run Bloomer Hill Peoples clinic in rural Whitakers, N.C., I have witnessed the consequence of this lack of healthcare access.

Many of our clinic patients struggle with affording medication, getting transportation for appointments, and finding an accessible primary care doctor. For many, having the means, time and place to obtain a COVID vaccine is a luxury they cannot afford, even if the desire is there.

As a N.C. Schweitzer Fellow, I helped develop a referral resource network to help track and fill gaps in healthcare access. However, grassroots efforts like this are a small bandage on the gaping wound of rural healthcare needs.

Lacking the desire or opportunity to live in a city should not jeopardize a persons life, yet in North Carolina and the broader U.S., the disparity is a stark reality. It magnifies the effects of racial discrimination, poverty, citizenship status and other health outcome determinants, and it is a direct consequence of the decades-long neglect and decline in rural healthcare resources.

Communities have been left to struggle against this unequal allocation of resources largely alone. Its no wonder vaccine hesitancy, regardless of political affiliation, is higher in rural communities  why trust institutions that have abandoned you?

So yes, our rural community health centers need vaccines and advocates convincing people to take them. They also need doctors. And nurses. And technicians. And hospitals. Mental health professionals. Social workers. Emergency funds. And the understanding that problems years in the making take time and resources to solve.

We must on a policy level invest in rural health facilities and healthcare staff. Thats what gives us the best chance to end the COVID pandemic and pandemics yet to come.

Benjamin Succop Jr., Chapel Hill

A reminder as we recall Hiroshima

The writer is a Ph.D. candidate in nuclear engineering at North Carolina State University.

This month marks the 77th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. To many it may feel like nuclear weapons are a threat of a bygone era. Unfortunately, this could not be further from the truth.

Weve seen how nuclear weapons have been used as a shield for a war of aggression in Ukraine, accompanied by threats of nuclear weapons use. Whether we like it or not, the nuclear threat has always been dangerously close to home.

In 1961 a B-52 crashed into a swamp outside Goldsboro bearing two Mark 39 thermonuclear bombs, only one of which has been fully recovered. After decades of official denial, a 2013 Freedom of Information Act request revealed that only one of six safety mechanisms prevented the bomb from detonating.

In short, our state was a flip of a switch away from several megatons of atomic fire. Alarmingly, our forgotten brush with disaster serves as an sobering metaphor for contemporary trends.

All nine countries possessing nuclear weapons are either modernizing or expanding their arsenals. They continue to loudly oppose the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which boasts 86 signatory states and entered into force last year. While the war in Ukraine is the most pressing potential flashpoint, there is also growing concern for a similar situation on the Taiwan Strait, as well as an increasingly likely seventh nuclear test by North Korea.

Last year, before the war in Ukraine, Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin signed a joint statement that nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought, in direct homage to the same historic declaration made between Ronald Reagan and Mikhail Gorbachev in 1985. They were then joined by China, France, and the UK in a joint statement echoing the same belief.

Our leaders must return to that mindset and take the initiative to engage our rivals in the painstaking process of arms control negotiations. We must strengthen channels for communication to avert the kinds of misunderstandings and miscalculations that could lead to nuclear catastrophe. The world is too dangerous to live with only one safety switch.

Owen Webster, Raleigh
David Bader is the perfect person to explain the allure of aloha shirts.

Bader, a Tacoma-based aloha shirt collector, sported his first one before he could form complete sentences; his mom bought him a red shirt patterned with blossoming orchids when he was 2 years old. Since then, Bader, now 63, has been enthralled with the apparel.

He had the opportunity to share both a personal and a cultural aloha-shirt history with The News Tribune in July. On a Friday morning, half an hour before the Washington State History Museum opened, Bader met with the newspaper and three Washington Historical Society employees at Art of the Aloha Shirt, a traveling exhibit that lives in Tacoma this summer. As he led the small party around some of his favorites among the 19 shirts on display, he recalled what first attracted him to the attire.

From July 1 to September 11, 2022 the Washington State History Museum is showcasing the traveling exhibition the Art of the Aloha Shirt: Keoni of Hawaii, 19381951 and the work of John Keoni Meigs.

I just always loved the look, he told The News Tribune while exploring the exhibit. As he spoke, Bader sported a half-buttoned blue and white patterned aloha shirt, a garment he sewed himself, over a white T-shirt. Mens clothing is traditionally very monochromatic and kind of boring. Hawaiian shirts are a departure from that.

Since childhood, Bader has explored ways to express his love of aloha shirts. He started collecting them when he was in grade school and continued throughout his time at Mount Tahoma High School. When he took a job as an elementary teacher at the Grant Center for the Expressive Arts, he instituted Aloha Shirt Friday and encouraged his students to come to school wearing them.

Id always find ways to find shirts for my kids if they couldnt afford them, Bader said. Usually about 70% [would participate], but some years they were really into it, and it was close to 100%.

Now, retired from Tacoma Public Schools and running a vintage textile shop in the city, his enthusiasm has translated into appreciation for an exhibit like the one in the museum. Supplied primarily from the collection of Dan Eskenazi and curated by Dale Hope, the shirts were created as long as eight decades ago.

Celebrating an Aloha Shirt Icon

At the exhibit, he stopped at one with fabric that depicts about a dozen men, each a few inches tall, using spears and fishing nets to hunt marine animals. All of the action takes place in the foreground of a brown background the shade of milk-laden coffee. Its buttons, Bader told the group, are likely made from bamboo or coconut.

Two Aloha Shirts on display at the Washington State History Museum created by John Keoni Meigs. Not only are the Aloha Shirts in the museum, but also the original sketches, paintings and different variations of the shirts that Meigs created such as different color pallets and long and short sleeve shirts.

To the left of the shirt were two framed artifacts: a sketch, littered with a few small notes on the bottom, and a painting. Both employ the same design as the shirts fabric.

Gwen Whiting, a member of the tour party and a curator for the Washington Historical Society, explained that the artifacts were part of John Keoni Meigs creative process when he designed the shirt.

Thats really special to have it mapped out, Whiting said. You really dont see that very often, especially in shirts that are almost 80 years old.

Nearly all the shirts on display were sketched, designed and sewn by Meigs. When he transplanted from California to Hawaii in the 1930s, historians believe Japanese women had just started repurposing kimono fabric into mens shirts, creating the worlds first aloha shirts.

Inspired by these garments and Tahitian art around the islands, Meigs sketched and painted his own designs, replicated the multicolored images onto fabric and sewed them into shirts.

Today, nearly two decades after his death, he is considered one of the art forms key influential figures.

He was like on the cutting edge of the industry, Whiting said. [He was] working with folks on the island to make his designs come to life.

At the Washington State History Museum, John Keoni Meigs Aloha Shirts are on display along with color swatches, original sketches and paintings that Meigs created.

At the time the shirts were being made ... you had [on Hawaii] the indigenous people, you had European people, the Japanese community, the Chinese community, Filipino [and] Korean communities, who are all joined together on this island. And the shirts reflect that.

Thinking about the past in the present

A different shirt highlights a tension that lurks in his work. Like the previous one, a Meigs aloha shirt hangs to the right of two accompanying objects. However, neither of them were designed by Meigs. One is a painting he replicated of a Eugene Henri Paul Gauguin woodcut painting. It depicts some of Gauguins experiences in Tahiti, and it was the road map for the shirts fabric design.

The other is a blue poster, designed by Whiting. It projects the headline, Whats the difference between stylistic influence and cultural appropriation? It is one of a few blue posters Whiting made to add context to the displays.

Meigs moved from the mainland to Hawaii, and Gaugin from France to Tahiti. Both incorporated the ethnic traditions from groups neither were a part of into their creative works and portrayed the cultures throunugh a Western lens. But, as Whiting wrote on her poster, Meigs and Gaugin were not aware of the pitfalls of cultural appropriation when they created their art.

Its one of the things we have offered questions throughout the exhibition to invite people to think about that, in what light do you consider these works? Whiting said. Theres questions, [but] theres really no one answer to any of this.

At the Washington State History Museum, John Keoni Meigs Aloha Shirts are on display along with color swatches, original sketches and paintings that Meigs created.

Its difficult, Bader said. I like to think of it as this idea of...communities coming together to create something beautiful. So thats the only way I can think about it.

He plans to discuss such topics when he speaks at an Aug. 18 event at the exhibit. In addition to Baders talk, the historical society invited Washington State University professor emeritus Linda Bradley and cocktail historian Renee Cebula to give presentations related to the aloha shirts.

While looking forward to the other guest speakers, Bader hopes to see some of the now-grown up elementary school students who participated in Aloha Shirt Friday a few decades ago.

Since I taught in the community where I live, a lot of the kids have become friends, Bader said. So I should probably see a lot of them here.

Art of the Aloha Shirt

 Where: Washington State Historical Museum

 When: Now until Sept. 11, 2022

 Pricing: $14 for a museum ticket (available online or at the front desk)

 Free community event Aug. 18, 6-8 p.m.
For Wake County English teacher Kiana Espinoza, one of the greatest joys of her job is working with students who are bilingual, like herself. Her face lights up when mentioning their progress in and out of the classroom.

But Espinoza thinks North Carolinas proposed education licensing and compensation plan could make her passion slip out of reach.

Under the proposal, presented by the Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission, teachers would no longer receive pay raises based on experience. Instead, compensation would be dictated by a combination of standardized test scores, student surveys and peer and principal evaluations.

For educators like Espinoza, this system creates unimaginable ethical decisions. Although her bilingual students may grow tremendously throughout the school year, if they do not test at a certain level, Espinoza could have her pay stunted in the face of rising inflation.

She said the proposal penalizes teachers for working with students who have legitimate reasons for testing poorly, such as being non-native speakers of the language the test is written in.

We dont need radical reinvention

In response to the proposal, North Carolina Association of Educators members are speaking out as the new school year approaches. At a Tuesday news conference, NCAEs message was clear: Experience matters.

Pay educators based on experience, said Bryan Proffitt, NCAE vice president. We dont need radical reinvention of the wheel.

Proffitt described a vicious cycle of low pay driving veteran teachers out of the profession, leading to greater teacher shortages. That simultaneously deters new educators from entering the profession, exacerbating the problem.

As much as I love this profession, Espinoza said. I see people leaving left and right.

To combat this, Proffitt called for a $45,000 base pay for all certified teachers statewide and the creation of pay for student teachers. The financial burden of free labor as a prerequisite to entering the teaching profession is a massive hurdle to overcome, said Harnett County teacher Daria Fedrick.

We need a real raise, Espinoza said. For everyone.

Members of the North Carolina Association of Educators stand in Halifax Mall to call for experience-based teacher pay on Tuesday,.

Proffitt said teachers also should be compensated for the slew of roles they play outside the traditional classroom setting: mentoring early career teachers, training student teachers, advising extracurricular activities and taking on added work to help struggling students.

My worth should be recognized annually, not just during my renewal year, Fedrick said.

Proffitt said state standardized tests are designed in a way that ensures some percentage of students, no matter yearly academic growth, will fall below the curve and therefore drag down a teachers potential for a raise.

Susan Book, a Wake County parent of a child on the autism spectrum, worries that this program could force some of the most important educators in her childs life to leave the profession or deter educators from working with students with disabilities.

Children are more than a score, Book said.

State Board of Education Chair Eric Davis said at last weeks meeting that this new model is not intrinsically tied to student test scores.

Neither student testing nor student academic growth ... is a required pathway to advancement, Davis said. For each level of licensure, there are other options for a teacher to advance outside of testing.

According to Blair Rhoades, state Department of Public Instruction communications manager, the new model will provide a menu of options for teachers to choose from in terms of measuring success.

However, Davis also said these options have not been fully determined.

Whatever alternative method(s) that ultimately become part of the licensure system will be developed with teacher and educator input and must withstand field testing before implementing broadly, Davis said.
The Asian long-horned beetle was found in 2021 by a homeowner in Hollywood, South Carolina (Clemson University/Provided)

Its beetle hunting season in South Carolina this month.

Specifically, the Asian longhorned beetle  an invasive pest that has been devastating trees in the Palmetto State in recent years. It turns out that August is the best time to spot the little critters, so the U.S. Department of Agriculture is encouraging residents to help identify and eradicate them from South Carolina.

According to the USDA, residents in South Carolina, particularly those in Charleston and Dorchester counties, should check their trees for Asian longhorned beetles and the damage they cause.

August is a critical time to look for the insect since its when people are most likely to see adult beetles.

Checking trees for the pest and the damage it causes is how you can help us eliminate the beetle from the United States and protect more trees, Josie Ryan, APHIS National Operations Manager for the ALB Eradication Program, said in a Monday press release. The sooner we know where the insect is, the sooner we can stop its spread.

The beetle was most recently found in South Carolina when a homeowner reported spotting one in their backyard in 2020, which lead the USDA and Clemson Universitys Department of Plant Industry to discover an active infestation.

The Asian longhorned beetle is a wood-boring insect that attacks 12 types of hardwood trees in North America, including maples, elms, buckeyes, birches and willows. Infested trees do not recover and eventually die.

In its larval stage, the beetle feeds inside tree trucks and branches, creating tunnels. Adults later chew their way out in the warmer months, leaving small round exit holes.

How to identify an adult Asian longhorned beetle

A shiny black body with white spots that is about 1 to 1 1/2 long.

Black and white antennae that are longer than the insects body.

Six legs and feet that can appear bluish in color.

Signs that a tree might be infested

Round exit holes in tree trunks and branches about the size of a dime or smaller.

Egg sites that are shallow, oval or round wounds in the bark where sap might weep.

Sawdust-like material called frass found on the ground around the tree or on the branches.

Branches or limbs falling from an otherwise healthy-looking tree.

How you can help

If you think you found a beetle or tree damage, report it by calling the ALB hotline at 1-866-702-9938 or submitting an online report at www.AsianLonghornedBeetle.com. Try to photograph the ALB or tree damage. If you can, capture the beetle in a durable container and freeze it, which helps preserve the insect for identification. Then report it.

If you live in an Asian longhorned beetle quarantine area, please keep the tree-killing pest from spreading. Follow state and federal laws, which restrict the movement of woody material and untreated firewood that could be infested.

It is possible to eradicate the beetle. USDA and its partners eradicated the insect from Illinois, Boston, Massachusetts, New Jersey and portions of New York and Ohio.

For more information about the the beetle and the eradication efforts, visit www.AsianLonghornedBeetle.com. For local inquiries or to speak to your USDA State Plant Health Director, call 1-866-702-9938.
The Turkish government has stepped up its lethal drone attacks against U.S.-allied Kurdish forces in northern Syria ahead of a threatened full-scale invasion.

On Sunday, a Turkish drone attack was reported to have killed 4 people in a town on the Syria-Turkey border.

The latest attack drew criticism from the Syrian Defense Forces (SDF), a U.S. allied force that helped defeat ISIS. The force is predominantly made up of Kurds. According to local reports, the SDF blamed both Russia and the U.S. for allowing the attacks and stated that the Turks would not have been able to launch them without U.S. and Russian permission.

"From July 20, we have had nine people killed from the Syrian Defense Forces (SDF), 13 civilians, and four from internal security forces. All targeted with Turkish drones," Sinam Mohamad, who is the representative of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) to the U.S.

ERDOGANS THREATS OF INVADING SYRIA COULD LEAD TO ISLAMIC STATE RESURGENCE

Mohamad told Fox News Digital that: "Turkey is threatening to invade militarily. They are using drone attacks. Now it has increased."

Last week in a joint statement after a four-hour meeting between Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Sochi, the two strongmen "reaffirmed their determination to act in coordination and solidarity in the fight against all terrorists organizations" in Syria.

The opaque joint statement did not reference Russian flexibility about permitting a high-intensity Turkish military invasion into Syria.

Dmitri Peskov, Vladimir Putin's spokesman, said, according to the Interfax news agency, "Military-technical cooperation between the two countries is permanently on the agenda, and the very fact that our interaction is developing in this sensitive sphere shows that, on the whole, the entire range of our interrelations is at a very high level."

Russias military presence, including its air power in Syria, have complicated Erdogans burning desire to invade Syria and create a buffer zone along the Turkish-Syrian border.

BIDEN, ERDOGAN TO SQUARE OFF IN NATO SUMMIT

Erdogan claims the Kurdish forces in northern Syria who aided the U.S in ousting ISIS are affiliated with the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) in Turkey. Turkey has classified the PKK a terrorist entity. The U.S. sharply disagrees with Turkey about the SDF and values its Syrian Kurdish allies.

The official Twitter account for U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) mourned the loss of Salwa Yusku, a deputy commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces, who was killed by a Turkish drone on July 22.

U.S. Central Command tweeted" Salwa was a critical SDF leader who led forces in combat vs ISIS since the height of the fight to defeat the vile ideology in NE Syria in 2017. CENTCOM extends our condolences to the Families of these 3 SDF fighters, the people in Northeast Syria & our SDF partners."

American officials and veteran observers of the SDF have noted that Salwa played a key role in saving American lives during the war against ISIS.

Mohamad flatly denied any links to the PKK. "Accusing these people of being PKK or terrorists is not true. They were defending the Syrian people from the terrorist group the Islamic State."

TURKEY APPLIES FOR OFFICIAL NAME CHANGE TO 'STRENGTHEN' COUNTRY'S BRAND, CULTURE

A representative for Turkeys embassy in Washington, D.C., told Fox News Digital "It is important to note that the PKK/YPG attacks emanating from north of Syria against Turkey and civilian targets have surpassed 1,800 over the last two years. This group leverages its presence in locations near the Turkish border to launch drone attacks on Turkish territory. It also excavates tunnels under the Turkish border to launch attacks."

The YPG is abbreviation for the Peoples Defense Units, a Syrian Kurdish militia.

Mohamad said the political parties of Syrian Democratic Council wants the U.S. to impose a no-fly zone over northern Syria to stop Erdogans intensive drone attacks and warplanes. The U.S. rejected the idea.

Mohamad noted that one proposal that appears to be gaining steam is an amendment to a congressional bill that would ban Turkey from using American F-16 fighter planes against U.S. partners in counter-terrorism.

The proposed legislation could be applied to stymie Erdogans efforts to use American military air power to launch attacks against the SDF.

Mohamad, who is from the northern Syria city of Afrin, said Erdogan "used airpower" to bring about "ethnic cleansing" in Afrin in 2018. Turkey captured the city four years ago, ousting the Syrian Kurdish militia YPG.

Mohamad said military groups backed by Turkey raped Kurdish women and confiscated the property of Kurds. Turkeys demographic objective according to Mohamad," is to replace the Kurdish population with other people who are not from the region."

SYRIAN KURDS FEAR 'ETHNIC CLEANSING' AFTER US TROOP PULLOUT ANNOUNCEMENT

Syrian couple Mohamad Ali Rashid, 64, and Madina Abdallah Hussein, 59, both injured during Turkish shelling, sit on May 25, 2018 in the town of Qamishli after they were displaced from the town of Rajo in the Afrin District. - Seven years of war and massive displacement have redrawn Syria's demographic map, erecting borders between the country's ethnic, religious, and political communities that will be hard to erase. Displaced Syrians, analysts, and rights defenders have described to AFP a divided country where regime opponents have been driven out, minorities stick closer together and communities generally have become more homogenous. (Photo by: DELIL SOULEIMAN/AFP via Getty Images)

She said "There was a mass demography change in Afrin and the majority of Kurds (300,000) were displaced, as well as Arabs."

In 2018, Redur Xelil, the head of foreign relations for the SDF, told Reuters "The Turkish government is settling Turkmen and Arab families in the villages of Afrin that it occupied after forcing out its people and is distributing the belongings of the people of Afrin to the new settlers."

In 2020 Michelle Bachelet, the U.N's human rights chief urged Turkey to launch what she said should be "an impartial, transparent, and independent investigation into the incidents," which the UN had verified" and said that it should "hold accountable those responsible for what may, in some instances, amount to crimes under international law, including war crimes."

The Turkish embassy representative told Fox News Digital, "The PKK/YPGs operation manual relies on terrorism and black propaganda" against Turkey. He said, "In that regard, the allegations of ethnic cleansing of Kurds is utterly false." He said Turkey fights against "the terrorist organizations PKK/YPG, not against the Kurds."

The Turkish representative concluded that "Continuous ignorance of our calls and ensuing appeasement of PKK/YPG terror elements in Syria have resulted in the resurgence of DAESH [Islamic State]."
The city of Raleigh and the Raleigh Police Department released details Monday for a gun buyback event being held this weekend.

The buyback will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, at Mount Peace Baptist Church, 1601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

The city will offer gift cards worth up to $200 in exchange for gun. People can also turn in broken or damaged guns, as well as Airsoft, pellet, BB or paintball guns, but will not receive compensation for them.

The buyback isnt meant to restrict gun ownership, Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin said.

If you have a gun that you cant secure, if you dont feel comfortable owning a weapon, whatever it is, Baldwin said. We are just encouraging people to really focus on the safety aspects.

For the buyback, the city and RPD will partner with the NAACP of Raleigh-Apex, and with the North Carolina chapter of Moms Demand Action, Baldwin said. The Raleigh Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, will also be a partner.

You must be at least 18 to participate in the buyback and must be in a motor vehicle with the unloaded weapon in the back. Enter the buyback zone via Raleigh Boulevard.

Plans for the buyback were inspired by two recent gun buybacks held in Durham County, Baldwin said.

A buyback earlier this month netted 295 guns, and the Durham County Sheriffs Office had to turn some residents away even after increasing its budget for the event from $10,000 to $35,000.

Some Raleigh residents made the trip, waiting in in line up to three hours.

City staff members in Raleigh also looked to places like Houston, where a recent buyback brought in over 800 guns, Houston Public Media reported.

Gun violence prevention

Gun violence prevention is one of the citys top policy goals for the year, Baldwin told The News & Observer.

We are treating this with a sense of urgency, she said.

Sixty-nine people were shot and more people were killed in Raleigh during the first half of this year than during the same period in either of the last two years, The N&O has reported.

At a July press conference, Michael Easley Jr., the U.S. Attorney for the states Eastern District, said the proliferation of guns is fueling gun violence.

What were really focused on is safety, Baldwin told The N&O. When you look at statistics, its frightening.

The buyback will be followed by an education campaign conducted with the N.C. Department of Public Safety. The city will focus on safe gun storage, the mayor said.

What that means is dont leave them in your unlocked vehicle, Baldwin said. Dont place them in a drawer. Please leave them in a locked safe.

Baldwin also said police are determining which areas of the city have the most crime in order to refocus resources where they are needed most.

The Raleigh City Council allocated $1 million to this program this year. Another $1 million went toward strengthening ACORNS, the citys crisis navigation team bringing social workers to some police calls.

The whole idea is to prevent gun violence before it happens, Baldwin said.
Some South Carolina Republicans quickly denounced the Monday search by the FBI of former President Donald Trumps home at Floridas Mar-a-Lago resort, where agents executed a search warrant for classified documents.

Moments after news of the search broke while many details were still unclear, Congressman Jeff Duncan and many national Republicans blasted the FBI and the Biden administration, with Duncan calling the agency corrupt to the core.

The FBI has proven time and again that it is corrupt to the core. At what point do we abolish the bureau and start over? Duncan, R-Laurens, tweeted. ... The weaponization and politicalization of federal agencies is egregious and scary.

Meanwhile, Trump ally and the states senior Republican senator, Lindsey Graham, criticized the timing of the search roughly 90 days before the midterm elections and said conservatives will be suspicious of Trump-related investigations.

Time will tell regarding this most recent investigation, Graham tweeted. However, launching such an investigation of a former President this close to an election is beyond problematic.

At a news conference Tuesday with Gov. Henry McMaster at the State House to express opposition to the Inflation Reduction Act, Graham told reporters that the FBIs timing reeks of politics.

You dont do things before an election unless you have to, and I want to know what led to this, Graham said. Every Republican believes that the FBI when it comes to Trump and other organizations have lost their mind.

Graham said he spoke to Trump twice Tuesday, and said he believes ever more the former president will seek reelection in 2024.

I told him that theres legal systems in this country. Avail yourself of it and time will tell us whats going on, Graham said. He believes the country is going in the wrong direction. Everything hes done has been undercut.

Graham also asked that people not violently react to the news, such as those whove called for the need for a civil war.

To those who feel like you need to violently react, the answer is dont, Graham added. What you need to do is you need to make sure you show up and vote, stop some of this madness and we do have a legal system in this country and we will get to the bottom of it like we did with the Mueller investigation.

FBI agents searched Trumps Florida home Monday over the handling of classified documents, sources confirmed to McClatchyDC/Miami Herald. A source told McClatchyDC that agents obtained a search warrant from a federal magistrate judge in West Palm Beach to get dozens of boxes allegedly containing classified material that Trump had taken to his home when he left the White House.

The source said the FBI was able to show probable cause because Trump and his lawyers had already turned over classified documents sought by the National Archives and Records Administration.

The White House was unaware of the FBIs actions Monday, a White House official told McClatchyDC, referring questions to the Department of Justice in Washington.

The DOJ needs to provide information about the raid immediately. If this is only about document retention, it should cost Merrick Garland his job, tweeted Mick Mulvaney, a former South Carolina congressman and Trump administration official who resigned his post because of Trumps response to the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. If the Mar-a-Lago raid is really about documents, it makes me wonder if the local police can send the SWAT team to kick in your front door to get your overdue library books. The government better have a better reason for this invasion.

Garland was appointed by President Joe Biden in 2021. The FBI director is Christopher Wray, a 2017 Trump appointee.

FILE - The Mar-a-Lago estate on July 10, 2019, in Palm Beach, Fla. Former President Donald Trump says the FBI is conducting a search of his Mar-a-Lago estate. Spokespeople for the FBI and the Justice Department did not return messages seeking comment Monday, Aug. 8, 2022.(AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

SC Republicans slam FBI, Scott holds off rush to judgment

South Carolina Republicans also sought to tie a double standard to the FBI and the DOJ, accusing the two of failing to go after the presidents son Hunter, under federal investigation for his business dealings in Ukraine.

They came after Trump the candidate. Then Trump as president. Now as the former president gearing up for another run, U.S. Rep. William Timmons, R-Greenville, tweeted. When you drain the swamp, the swamp fights back. Meanwhile Hunter Biden gets pass after pass.

Rep. Ralph Norman, R-Rock Hill, questioned the FBIs motives nearly 600 days after Trump left the White House in 2021, calling it nonsense. And U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, R-Springdale, said all Americans should take issue with the FBIs invasion of Trumps home.

This raid on a former presidents home is unprecedented and has all the markings of a total abuse of political power, Norman tweeted.

A day after the FBI search, Rep. Nancy Mace, R-Daniel Island, tweeted, November cant come fast enough.

Rep. Tom Rice, the Myrtle Beach congressman ousted in his primary after he voted to impeach Trump following Jan. 6, did not issue any public statement.

Like Graham, Sen. Tim Scott, a potential 2024 presidential candidate, on Tuesday questioned the search by the FBI, but said the country needs to let the investigation play out.

It has to be something of incredible magnitude for at least my side of the aisle to say that was warranted. Without that, I think were going to find ourselves in a very big mess as it relates to the credibility of the FBI, the states junior senator told CBS Mornings. As opposed to rushing to judgment, the most important thing we can do is let it play out.

.@SenatorTimScott says the American public needs to let the FBIs search and DOJ investigation of former Pres. Trump play out before jumping to conclusions  adding that this could raise more questions about whether the agency is doing their job apolitical. pic.twitter.com/pugU4PcKYe  CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) August 9, 2022

McClatchyDC and the Miami Herald contributed to this report.
A month after a July 3 shooting in front of a South Tacoma apartment left four people injured, a second suspect has been arrested and charged for his role in the incident.

18-year-old Maleik Alexander Rosa was arrested by Tacoma Police officers last Thursday and charged by Pierce County Superior Court the following day for six felony charges: four counts of assault in the first degree, one count of drive-by shooting and one charge of unlawful possession of a firearm in the first degree.

According to charging documents, the shooting was the aftermath of prolonged disagreements between two tenants of an apartment near the 3300 block of South Asotin Street. 35-year-old Ronnay C. Scott, who was arrested in July on similar charges to Rosa, and a 26-year-old tenant both told officers they were fighting with each other just prior to the shooting.

When the 26-year-old woman went to Scotts apartment to raise issues about his children, Scott answered the door holding a butter knife. The woman knocked the butter knife out of Scotts hand, and the two pushed, grabbed and shoved each other until the 26-year-olds mother broke up the fight.

According to the 26-year-old, after they were separated, Scott said she had something for her. Scott then drove her two children away from the complex and returned with others in the car, including Rosa. According to the documents, witness accounts of how many people were in the car vary between three and five individuals but were consistent that they were wearing ski masks and openly shot at the the family of the 26-year-olds mother.

The bullets hit four people near the apartment complex: the mother was shot in the foot; her son, who had come to defend the mother, was shot in the hip; a pregnant woman was shot in her hip and thigh; and another man was shot in his abdomen. It is unclear from the charging documents whether the suspects were inside or outside the car when they shot the four victims.

Soon afterwards, an apartment camera recorded two individuals shooting bullets a few blocks away on Alaska Street. While it is unclear who they were aiming at, the bullets struck two windows of a minivan parked nearby. In an email to The News Tribune, Pierce County spokesperson Adam Faber said detectives are still investigating whether the same people were involved in both incidents.

When Scott was arrested and interrogated in July, she identified her sister and Rosa as the two other people in her car wearing ski masks. In addition to claiming that she acted out of self defense after being assaulted, Scott told Tacoma police detectives that she had hoped that the trio would stop at beating up the 26-year-old; she did not expect guns to be involved in an altercation. Faber said Scotts sister is being actively investigated for her role in the shooting.

During the investigation, detectives discovered that Rosa, who was already a suspect in three prior Tacoma shootings this year, had fled the state to Georgia. He returned to Washington in early August, and police spotted him entering the drivers seat of a car last Thursday. A vehicle chase ensued and ended when police trapped Rosas car. The charging documents indicate that he refused to speak with authorities upon being arrested.

A superior court judge has set Rosas bail at $1 million. His jury trial is set to begin Sept. 22.
Mourners participate in a procession commemorating Ashoura in Tehran on Monday. (Vahid Salemi / Associated Press)

Millions of Shiite Muslims  in Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and beyond  are marking the festival of Ashoura, one of the most emotional occasions in their religious calendar, commemorating the 7th century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein.

Security forces, particularly in Taliban-run Afghanistan, were on high alert Monday for any violence. In the past, bloody attacks have marred the festival across in the Middle East, as Sunni extremists who view the Shiites as heretics seize on the holy day to target large gatherings of mourners.

Shiite Muslims were to mark the holy day on Tuesday in Iraq and also in Lebanon, where a major procession typically shuts down Beirut's biggest suburb. With power split in Lebanon among the country's religious sects, Ashoura presents an opportunity for Lebanon's Shiites to show force.

In the Iraqi city of Karbala, where Hussein is entombed in a gold-domed shrine, religious charities laid out vats of rice, bread and beans to feed pilgrims. Thousands typically rush toward the shrine to symbolize their desire to answer Husseins last cries for help in battle.

Crowds of mourners were thin in Kabul, where the country's Shiites have suffered a wave of brazen attacks by the local Islamic State affiliate, which has tried to undermine the new Taliban government. Repeated bombings have rattled Afghanistan's ethnic minority Hazara Shiites, who previously experienced persecution under the Taliban and fear their new rulers  who seized power a year ago, as U.S. and NATO troops withdrew  will let violence continue against their community.

Shiites represent more than 10% of the worlds 1.8 billion Muslims and view Hussein as the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad. Hussein's death in battle at the hands of Sunnis at Karbala, south of Baghdad, ingrained a deep rift in Islam and continues to this day to play a key role in shaping Shiite identity.

More than 1,340 years after Hussein's martyrdom, Baghdad, Tehran, Islamabad and other major capitals in the Middle East were adorned with symbols of Shiite piety and repentance: red flags for Husseins blood, symbolic black funeral tents and black dress for mourning, processions of men and boys expressing fervor in the ritual of chest beating and self-flagellation with chains.

In Afghanistan and Pakistan, authorities cut mobile phone services in key cities holding commemorations for fear of militant bombings. Internet monitoring group NetBlocks confirmed Monday that Afghanistan was experiencing significant service disruptions.

Pakistani police were out in force along procession routes. The Taliban shut down roads leading to Shiite neighborhoods and mosques in Afghanistan.

The Taliban have encouraged Shiites to carry out their devotions. However, they did not designate Ashoura a national holiday this year, as Afghanistan's authorities have in the past. They also banned major processions for fear of violence after a string of bombings targeting Shiite-dominated areas.

Despite the threat of attacks, hundreds of frenzied Shiites turned up on the streets of Kabul to beat their heads and chests in unison. They whipped themselves with knife-edged chains to the point of blood splattering onto the streets.

The Afghan mourners struck a defiant tone.

Those who want to stop us from commemoration of this day will take their wish to grave with themselves, said Habibullah Bashardost, adding that the community had braced itself for more violence.

"Even if these people who are commemorating today are martyred, we have our coming generation to continue this path, Bashardost said.

Another participant, Ahmadullah Hussaini, said his presence at the bloodletting ritual under the shadow of targeted attacks delivered a succinct message: We are not scared of anything, not even death.

In Shiite powerhouse Iran, thousands of men and women shrouded in black thronged the streets of Tehran. Green plumage, the color of Islam, fluttered in the air. Camels covered with multicolored cloth paraded through the city, evoking how Hussein set out from Mecca with a small band of companions. Iranians pounded their chests in mourning and chanted in unison, while some mourners clad in black wept.

Somehow, I feel like I must go to mourning, because Imam Hussein was brutally and unfairly treated, said Nasrin Bahami, a 65-year-old participant in the Tehran procession. I love his pride, his bravery. He is a symbol, a role model.

In Iraq, where the largest Ashoura gatherings were expected to take place on Tuesday, black flags of grief fluttered over the capital's major thoroughfares. Portraits of the revered saint hung from the doors of nearly every house in the Shiite-dominated suburb of Sadr City.

This years Ashoura in Iraq coincides with a deepening political crisis between Shiite political rivals. Thousands of followers of cleric Muqtada al-Sadr stormed the parliament building last week to prevent Iran-backed parties from forming a government. Their sit-in continues, with al-Sadr invoking the sacrifices of Hussein to whip up religious fervor.

Associated Press writers Samya Kullab in Baghdad, Rahim Faiez and Munir Ahmed in Islamabad and Isabel DeBre in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
At least eight people were killed Monday after a record 15 inches of rain were unleashed in less than 24 hours on Seoul, in the latest evidence of how climate change has made extreme weather events more common.

The unprecedented rate of rain, which the Korea Meteorological Administration had warned would reach 2 to 4 inches per hour, turned roads into rivers and lakes, knocked out service to the subway system and submerged entire neighborhoods. The deluge triggered landslides and flooded basement apartments in the Gwanak district, where two adults and a child reportedly drowned.

People clean up debris at a traditional market damaged by flood after torrential rain in Seoul on Tuesday. (Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)

"The intense, heavy rain that broke the record for hourly precipitation in Korea's meteorological history is believed to be due to abnormal weather conditions caused by climate change," South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said at a press conference, according to Reuters. "The government should review the current disaster management system from scratch, taking into account these abnormal weather conditions caused by climate change."

Yoon himself was trapped Monday night in his high-rise apartment, the Washington Post reported, the ground floor of which was flooded. As the flooding receded, the extent of the devastation was revealed, with cars strewn on sidewalks like discarded toys, a blanket of mud lining roadways and shops, and heaps of belongings piled up in intersections.

The video footage posted to social media sites of the flooding had an eerily familiar feeling to it, coming during a year in the Northern Hemisphere that has obliterated rainfall records in several locations around the world.

More than 9 inches of rain fell in just seven hours in Lahore, Pakistan, last month, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of people. At least 37 people were killed in eastern Kentucky in late July when a record 12 inches of rain fell over the area just 48 hours after St. Louis, Ky., set its own record with more than 9 inches of rain in 24 hours. Those totals, and many others like them this summer, have overwhelmed local infrastructure.

A worker clears water from her shop at the historic Namseong Market in the Gangnam district of Seoul on Tuesday. (Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images)

"Were seeing more of these intense precipitation events, where theres a lot of water dumped on an area in a short amount of time. And the infrastructure wasnt designed to handle that amount of precipitation," Janey Camp, professor of civil and environmental engineering at Vanderbilt University, told Yahoo News.

As the Earth's temperatures have risen due to the greenhouse effect caused by the burning of fossil fuels, so too has the amount of moisture in the atmosphere. For every 1C of warming, studies have found, 7% more moisture is added, in large part due to increased evaporation rates. Globally, precipitation rates have also edged up.

"On average, total annual precipitation has increased over land areas in the United States and worldwide," the Environmental Protection Agency says on its website. "Since 1901, global precipitation has increased at an average rate of 0.04 inches per decade, while precipitation in the contiguous 48 states has increased at a rate of 0.20 inches per decade."

A man with a bicycle walks along a street that was still draining after heavy rainfall in Seoul on Tuesday. (Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)

But that increase in rainfall has not been evenly distributed. Climate change also worsens drought conditions in some areas, and has been shown to alter weather patterns. When conditions are right, however, that excess moisture in the atmosphere can unload at unprecedented rates.

"Extreme precipitation events have produced more rain and become more common since the 1950s in many regions of the world, including much of the United States. In the U.S., the Midwest and Northeast have seen the strongest increases in heavy precipitation events," the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions says on its website.

Touring the devastation in Kentucky on Monday that was left behind by last month's historic flooding, President Biden, like President Yoon, blamed climate change.

People clean up debris at a traditional market damaged by flood after torrential rain in Seoul on Tuesday. (Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)

"As you all know, we've suffered the consequence of climate change, a significant number of weather catastrophes around the nation," Biden said.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre echoed that sentiment Monday.

"The floods in Kentucky and extreme weather all around the country are yet another reminder of the intensifying and accelerate impacts of climate change and the urgent need to invest in making our communities more resilient to it," Jean-Pierre told reporters aboard Air Force Once.

As for South Korea, more heavy rainfall is forecast for the coming days.
By Mohammad Yunus Yawar

KABUL (Reuters) - Monesa Mubarez is not going to give up the rights she and other Afghan women won during 20 years of Western-backed rule easily.

Before the hardline Islamist Taliban movement swept back to power a year ago, the 31-year-old served as a director of policy monitoring at the finance ministry.

She was one of many women, mostly in big cities, who won freedoms that a former generation could not have dreamed of under the Taliban's previous rule in the late 1990s.

Now Mubarez has no job, after the Taliban's strict interpretation of Islamic law severely limited women's ability to work, required them to dress and act conservatively and closed secondary schools to girls across the country.

Under the new government, there are no women in the cabinet and the Ministry of Women's Affairs was shut down.

"One war ended, but the battle to find a rightful place for Afghan women has started ... we will raise our voice against every injustice until the last breath," said Mubarez, who is among the most prominent campaigners in the capital Kabul.

Despite the risk of beatings and detention by Taliban members patrolling the streets in the weeks after the Western-backed government was toppled, she took part in several protests that broke out, determined to protect her hard-fought rights.

Those demonstrations have died down - the last one Mubarez took part in was on May 10.

But she and others meet in homes in private acts of defiance, discussing women's rights and encouraging people to join the cause. Such gatherings would have been virtually unthinkable the last time the Taliban governed Afghanistan.

During one such meeting at her home in July, Mubarez and a group of women sat in a circle on the floor, spoke about their experiences and chanted words including "food", "work" and "freedom" as if they were at an outdoor rally.

"We fight for our own freedom, we fight for our rights and status, we work for no country, organisation or spy agency. This is our country, this is our homeland, and we have every right to live here," she told Reuters.

The country representative for UN Women in Afghanistan, Alison Davidian, said stories like Mubarez's are being repeated across the country.

"For many women across the world, walking outside the front door of your home is an ordinary part of life," she said. "For many Afghan women, it is extraordinary. It is an act of defiance."

While rules on women's behaviour in public are not always clear cut, in relatively liberal urban centres like Kabul they often travel without a male chaperone. That is less common in more conservative regions, largely in the south and east.

All women are required to have a male chaperone when they travel more than 78 km (48 miles).

STICKING POINT

The Taliban's treatment of girls and women is one of the main reasons why the international community refuses to recognise Afghanistan's new rulers, cutting off billions of dollars in aid and exacerbating an economic crisis.

Senior officials at several ministries said that policies regarding women were set by top leaders and declined to comment further. The Taliban leadership has said all Afghans' rights will be protected within their interpretation of sharia.

Rights groups and foreign governments have also blamed the group for abuses and thousands of civilian deaths while fighting an insurgency against U.S.-led foreign troops and Afghan forces between 2001 and 2021.

The Taliban said they were resisting foreign occupation, and since returning to power have vowed not to pursue vendettas against former enemies. In cases where reprisals were reported, officials said last year they would investigate.

Afghanistan remains the only country in the world where girls are banned from going to high school.

In March, the group announced that female secondary schools would reopen, only to reverse its decision on the very morning that many girls had turned up excitedly for school.

Some have managed to enrol for private tutorials or online classes to continue their education.

"We are hopeful about schools reopening," said Kerishma Rasheedi, 16, who started private tuition as a temporary measure. She wants to leave the country with her parents so that she can return to school if they remain shut in Afghanistan.

"I will never stop studying," said Rasheedi. She moved to Kabul with her family from the northeastern province of Kunduz after their house there was hit by rockets during clashes in 2020.

The international community continues to advocate for female rights and leadership roles for women in public and political life. Some women said they have had to accept the new norms in order to make ends meet.

Gulestan Safari, a former female police officer, was forced to change her career after the Taliban stopped her from entering the police department.

Safari, 45, now carries out domestic chores for other families in Kabul.

"I loved my job ... we could afford to buy everything we wanted; we could buy meat, fruit."

(Writing by Rupam Jain; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Susan Fenton)
Two more grain ships leave Ukraine, bringing total to 12 under new deal The bulk carrier Ocean Lion leaves the sea port in Chornomorsk

ISTANBUL (Reuters) -Two more grain-carrying ships left Ukraine's Chornomorsk port on Tuesday, Turkey's defence ministry said, as part of a deal to unblock Ukrainian sea exports, bringing the total to leave the country under a safe passage deal to 12.

The Ocean Lion left for South Korea, carrying 64,720 tonnes of corn, it said, while the Rahmi Yagci was carrying 5,300 tonnes of sunflower meal to Istanbul.

The United Nations and Turkey brokered the agreement last month after warnings that the halt in grain shipments caused by the conflict could lead to severe food shortages and even outbreaks of famine in parts of the world.

Four ships that left Ukraine on Sunday are anchored near Istanbul and will be inspected on Tuesday, the defence ministry statement said.

Before Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24 in what it calls a "special operation" to demilitarise its neighbour, the two countries together accounted for nearly a third of global wheat exports.

The resumption of grain exports is being overseen by a Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) in Istanbul where Russian, Ukrainian, Turkish and U.N. personnel are working.

Ukraine hopes to export 20 million tonnes of grain in silos and 40 million from its new harvest, the country's economic adviser Oleh Ustenko said in July. The government hopes to earn $10 billion for its shattered economy from those volumes but Ustenko said it could take 20 to 24 months to export them if ports are not functioning properly.

(Reporting by Yesim Dikmen; Writing by Ezgi Erkoyun; Editing by Christopher Cushing, Gerry Doyle and Nick Macfie)
The dream of a handful of Vietnam-era veterans to establish a memorial with the names of Tarrant County residents who died as a result of the conflict is one step closer to completion.

Jim Hodgson, executive director of the Fort Worth Aviation Museum, and a group of like-minded friends established the Tarrant County Vietnam Memorial Foundation at the end of July to raise funds and bring more people into the project.

Hodgson, the foundations president, said it was time to get more people involved.

This is never going to happen if its just three or four people doing it, Hodgson said. I mean, thats kind of where weve been the last few years on this.

Bruce Zielsdorf, the foundations vice president and communications coordinator, said hes been reaching out to local veterans groups to make them aware of the project. Hes also been contacting veterans group members individually and asking them if they would be willing to serve on a committee.

Its going to be a lot of sweat equity and we need all the help we can get, Zielsdorf said.

Zielsdorf said the foundation recently established three committees: Communications, Design and Construction, and Development and Fundraising. They need help in all of those areas.

The foundation may be new, but the project itself has been more than five years in the making.

Hodgson, who served stateside with the Marines the last few years of the Vietnam War, said he realized local memorials for other wars often didnt include the names of the fallen. He envisioned something that would keep those names before the public.

As time goes on, its meaningless to say this is a commemoration of all of those who served in Vietnam, Hodgson said. Well, how impersonal is that? So thats why we wanted to have people be able to look at that and know who these people were who ... made the sacrifice.

Hodgson said there are 221 names on the list of Tarrant County residents who died as a result of the war. The names include those who were killed during the actual conflict as well as those who succumbed to injuries or war-related illnesses years after the fact.

We wanted to try to be as inclusive as possible, Hodgson said. And we still are. Were still open to more names.

In 2020 students from Fort Worth area schools submitted designs for the memorial. White Settlement Brewer High School student Ryan Scieneaux created the winning sculpture  a tree to represent life.

Fort Worth sculptor Michael Pavlovsky is finalizing the design to fit the requirements of Fort Worths parks department.

The memorial will be installed in Veterans Memorial Park at 4120 Camp Bowie Blvd. Sandra Youngblood, assistant park and recreation director, said the site within the park was chosen based on where the memorial will get the best visibility but not distract from the other monuments.

Veterans Memorial Park has numerous other memorials or plaques for honoring various of the wars Medal of Honor recipients, Youngblood said. And so ... it was appropriate for us to honor them with this memorial.

Hodgson said pinning down the projected cost for the project has been a major challenge.

It becomes a moving target on the cost, Hodgson said. Because a couple of years ago the costs were one thing, and during COVID the costs became another thing, and the costs are just all over the place.

Hodgson said he is hoping to get the memorial installed by 2026.

[We] really need this organization that we are now just forming to be able to push this thing across the finish line, he said.
Rock hero Ozzy Osbourne made a surprise appearance onstage in his home city of Birmingham to close out the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The Aston-born musician, 73, was joined by members of his band Black Sabbath, including guitarist Tony Iommi, drummer Tommy Clufetos and bassist Adam Wakeman for the explosive performance.

Fireworks were set off and crowds cheered as they launched into their hit song Paranoid.

Come on, lets go crazy, Osbourne told crowds, as the band played the famous chords to Iron Man.

Wrapping up the short performance, he added: Thank you, good night, you are the best, God bless you all  Birmingham forever.

Earlier in the ceremony, notorious fictional crime gang the Peaky Blinders took centre stage as part of a celebration of the musical heritage of the West Midlands.

Fireworks were set off and crowds cheered as they launched into their hit song Paranoid (Tim Goode/PA)

The international competition came to an end on Monday night after 11 days of sporting action.

The ceremony, held at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham, saw performances from artists including UB40, Beverley Knight, Dexys Midnight Runners, Goldie, The Selecter and Jorja Smith.

Mercury Prize-nominee Laura Mvula, 36, also gave a special performance of a newly commissioned track inspired by Nick Caves Red Right Hand, the theme song to Peaky Blinders.

The track featured a sequence from the much-anticipated theatre show Peaky Blinders: The Redemption Of Thomas Shelby.

Written and adapted for the stage by the shows creator Steven Knight, the production will receive its world premiere at Birmingham Hippodrome on September 27 as part of the Birmingham 2022 Festival.

Ahead of the event Mvulva described her performance as sexy and dark but joyous, and telling the PA news agency she felt chuffed for Birmingham.

Ozzy Osbourne performs on stage during the Closing Ceremony for the 2022 Commonwealth Games at the Alexander Stadium in Birmingham (Tim Egerton/PA)

Generally, especially amongst other parts of the UK I have been to, Birmingham has tended to get a bad rep, she said.

Its the second city. Its not London. Thats all we know of it  and the accent.

But what I love about Peaky Blinders, that Ill be tributing in my performance tonight, is that they have made the Birmingham accent golden again.

Its something that Im proud of and I embrace more. I love it now when people go, Are you from Birmingham? I can hear it in your accent, because its part of my heritage.

Laura Mvula will perform as part of a sequence from the new Peaky Blinders theatre show (Yui Mok/PA)

2022 has seen the most successful Commonwealth Games ever for the home nations, with a combined total of 275 medals, including 85 golds.

England led the way with 57 golds, behind only Australia in the medal table, and 176 in total, while Northern Ireland set national records and Scotland and Wales also thrived.

The Duke of Wessex officially closed the ceremony, saying: Every four years, we endeavour to come together to celebrate our Commonwealth through sport.

Thanks to the manner, style and enthusiasm with which you have competed, officiated, supported, organised and volunteered, you have, once again, brought the spirit and values of the Commonwealth to life.

You have inspired us and hopefully future generations. You have also demonstrated what unites us. Thank you, Birmingham.
Craig Hassall (Andy Paradise/David Levene/PA)

Royal Albert Hall chief executive Craig Hassall will step down at the beginning of the 2023 season, it has been announced.

After six years in the role, he will take up the position of president and chief executive of Playhouse Square in Cleveland, Ohio.

Hassall, 57, said: After six wonderful years at the Hall it is time for me to bid a very fond farewell.

I have genuinely loved working with the team, and despite all the recent challenges we have faced, it has been a huge privilege to lead the Royal Albert Hall through some great times (and some daunting ones!).

Our CEO Craig Hassall will step down at the start of the 2023 season, having accepted a position as President and Chief Executive of Playhouse Square in Cleveland, Ohio.



Congratulations @craighassall, you'll be missed 



Learn more: https://t.co/W5tWaTVSrp  Royal Albert Hall (@RoyalAlbertHall) August 9, 2022

Mr Hassall joined the London venue in 2017 and led the programme last year for its 150th anniversary.

He also helped the Hall navigate its survival and recovery plan through the Covid-19 pandemic and oversaw the refurbishment of the Grade I-listed venue.

Ian McCulloch, president of the Royal Albert Hall, said: We have benefitted from Craigs many talents for nearly six years.

During this tenure, Craig has accomplished a great deal for the good of the Hall and the wider cultural sector.

He has played a pivotal role in sustaining us through the Covid-19 pandemic, in enhancing our reputation and in enabling the Hall to reach even wider audiences.

He will be leaving us with our deep gratitude and goodwill.

The Royal Albert Hall (Myung Jung Kim/PA) (PA Archive)

Mr Hassall will move to Cleveland in early 2023 after completing the London Christmas season and the lead-up to the annual Cirque du Soleil season.

Before joining the London venue, he was chief executive at Opera Australia and managing director of the English National Ballet.

He was also chief operating officer at live music venue Raymond Gubbay Ltd and held senior artistic roles for projects including the 2000 and 2012 Olympic Games in Sydney and London.

The Royal Albert Hall said it will announce plans for Mr Hassalls replacement in due course.
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YEREVAN, AUGUST 9, ARMENPRESS. IT-superpower South Korea is one of the most attractive countries for investments with its huge economic potential. Over 15,000 foreign companies have invested and are working here, and the country is further willing to attract new investments and is offering foreign investors tax privileges, which make the investment climate more favorable.

The Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), a trade and investment promotion organization operated by the Government of South Korea, has representations in 127 countries around the world.

The Invest KOREA Institute is actively involved in the KOTRA system, working in three directions. It is actively working with public administration employees by carrying out consultations. The second direction of Invest KOREA is the promotion of investments through various programs, and the third direction is the protection of the rights of investors and support.

As part of a media tour organized by the Korean Culture and Information Service, ARMENPRESSs Editor-in-Chief Shant Khlghatyan met with Director for Investment Public Relations Team at Invest KOREA, Lee HyoYon.

Lee HyoYon said the technology sector is the most attractive area for foreign businesses. There is also big interest for electric vehicle equipment. The number of foreign companies whove invested in Korea is over 15 thousand. Companies whove invested in our country the most are from the United States and China, she said, adding that around 300 companies included in the Fortune 500 have investments in Korea.

Asked whether there are Armenian companies whove made investments in Korea, the expert said: Weve checked before the interview, however at this moment unfortunately there are no investments from Armenia.

Presenting the countrys tax privileges for foreign businesses, she said that Korea is engaged in a policy of reducing taxes and duties with the purpose of increasing the competitiveness of the country, so that companies are able to manage their businesses more effectively.

Foreign investors, who acquire land or buildings in Korea for their businesses, receive property tax privilege for a maximum of 7 years, and their property tax can be reduced by 50 to 100 percent.

Korea is also offering privileges in terms of employee income tax. Lee HyoYon said that this tax is decreased by 50% for 5 years in order to involve foreign employees. Foreign employees can choose their income tax size. For Koreans, this tax is in between 6 to 45 percent, while foreigners get the chance to chose: pay like Koreans or pay a fixed 19% income tax. This is a tax privilege for foreign employees, she said.

Meanwhile, corporate taxes are in between 10 to 25 percent. Foreign companies are again offered privileges in this regard. For example, small and medium businesses in the processed manufacturing area that opened in Korea can get a 5-year corporate tax privilege with the possibility of reducing it from 50 to 100 percent. Another privilege: if they invested funds in acquiring equipment then the amount can be reduced from the general corporate tax types. These privileges are granted not only to Korean companies but also foreign companies whove invested in Korea, she said.

Last year, a survey conducted by Bloomberg found South Korea to be the global leader in innovation, and the World Banks Doing Business report ranked the country 5th. Despite Korea being a small country with territory, it has a huge territory for doing business and economic activity, Lee HyoYon said.

Photos by PENTA PRESS
YEREVAN, AUGUST 9, ARMENPRESS. Russias COVID-19 case tally rose by 16,325 over the past day to 18,746,886, TASS reported citing the anti-coronavirus crisis center.

As many as 2,574 people were hospitalized with COVID-19 in Russia over the past day, up 105.6% from a day earlier. The number of hospitalized patients increased in 70 regions, while in nine regions the figure decreased. The situation remained unchanged in six regions. A day earlier, 1,252 people were rushed to hospitals.

Moscows COVID-19 cases surged by 4,781 over the past day versus 5,241 cases a day earlier, reaching 2,868,715, according to the anti-coronavirus crisis center. St. Petersburgs COVID-19 cases increased by 2,639 over the past day versus 2,642 a day earlier, reaching 1,572,775.

COVID-19 recoveries

Russias COVID-19 recoveries rose by 13,092 over the past day, reaching 18,061,168, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Tuesday.

A day earlier some 8,721 patients recovered.

COVID-19 death toll

Russias COVID-19 death toll rose by 60 over the past day, reaching 382,846, the anti-coronavirus crisis center told reporters on Tuesday.

A day earlier 45 COVID-19 deaths were registered.
According to information published by the United States Department of Defense on August 8, 2022, the United States approves a new military aid to Ukraine of $1 billion including additional ammunition for both the HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) and howitzer artillery vehicles.

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The High Mobility Artillery Rocket System fires the Army's new guided Multiple Launch Rocket System during testing at White Sands Missile Range. (Picture source U.S. DoD)

Among the items included in the latest package are additional ammunition for the high mobility artillery rocket system, or HIMARS, 75,000 rounds of 155 mm artillery ammunition, twenty 120 mm mortar systems and 20,000 rounds of 120 mm mortar ammunition, munitions for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems, or NASAMS and 1,000 Javelin and hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems.

With this new $1 billion military aid, the United States is once again showing its support for Ukraine in its fight against the Russian invasion. Since the Russian invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, the U.S. has sent about $9.1 billion in security assistance to the Ukrainians through both the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative and the presidential drawdown authority.

One type of munitions that the U.S. Department of Defense has sent to Ukraine for use with the HIMARS is the "Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System" or GMLRS, which are precision-guided rocket with a range of about 70 km. The U.S. had provided "hundreds" of that ammunition in the past few weeks and the Ukrainians have been using them successfully.

Since the delivery of HIMARS MLRSs (Multiple Launch Rocket Systems) to Ukraine, the Ukrainians have used the HIMARS along with provided GMLRS rockets to hit Russian command and control nodes, sustainment and logistics hubs and key radar systems, for instance.

This new military package for Ukraine also includes 50 armored medical treatment vehicles, Claymore anti-personnel munitions, C-4 explosives, demolition munitions and demolition equipment and medical supplies such as first aid kits, bandages, monitors and other equipment.
A feeling of repulsion, and of something akin to fear had begun to rise within me at the strange antics of this fleshless man. Even my dread of losing a client could not restrain me from showing my impatience.

She's out on the bay, answered the father and lapsed again into brooding silence.

A feeling of repulsion, and of something akin to fear had begun to rise within me at the strange antics of this fleshless man. Even my dread of losing a client could not restrain me from showing my impatience.

Well I marked a few orcs with mine but Ugl took them from us How he glared At first I thought he was going to stab me, but he threw the things away as if they burned him

If I should die, he said, and you are near, do not desert me. Go to the place where I fell, and if my body should have been destroyed look carefully around the place. If you can find even a shred of my flesh or a bit of my bone, it will be well. So said my dream. Here are four arrows, which the dream told me to make. If you can find a bit of my body, flesh or bone, or even hair, cover it with a robe, and standing over it, shoot three arrows one after another up into the air, crying, as each one leaves the bow, 'Look out' and as you say this, turn and run away from the place, not looking back as you go. If you do this, my friend, just as I have told you, I shall live again.

Good morning, Mamsey she often thought. Never gave me a harsh word. And so he might have been a good husband.

And yet less thanks have we than you Travellers scowl at us, and countrymen give us scornful names Strider I am to one fat man who lives within a days march of foes that would freeze his heart or lay his little town in ruin, if he were not guarded ceaselessly Yet we would not have it otherwise If simple folk are free from care and fear, simple they will be, and we must be secret to keep them so That has been the task of my kindred, while the years have lengthened and the grass has grown

Ah, I have no data. I cannot tell. Perhaps you have yourself formed some opinion?

and Hezekiah begot Manassehand Manasseh begot Amonand Amon begot Josiah

It is true that I have been generally successful.

And yet less thanks have we than you Travellers scowl at us, and countrymen give us scornful names Strider I am to one fat man who lives within a days march of foes that would freeze his heart or lay his little town in ruin, if he were not guarded ceaselessly Yet we would not have it otherwise If simple folk are free from care and fear, simple they will be, and we must be secret to keep them so That has been the task of my kindred, while the years have lengthened and the grass has grown

It is true that I have been generally successful.

In came Mrs. Widdup. She was comely to the eye, fair, flustered, forty and foxy.

Why didnt I give it to him in the morning?

She's out on the bay, answered the father and lapsed again into brooding silence.

Good morning, Mamsey she often thought. Never gave me a harsh word. And so he might have been a good husband.

We are tired of hearing you bragging about yourself,you little turkey cock

In came Mrs. Widdup. She was comely to the eye, fair, flustered, forty and foxy.

It is true that I have been generally successful.

Good morning, Mamsey she often thought. Never gave me a harsh word. And so he might have been a good husband.

The man shrank a little. Ill do it, he said. He, himself, could not have accounted for the fear that held him. He knew that the president of the R. and Q. road was a broken man; he had sworn it to the manager of the C. B. and L.; but none the less he was afraid. A phrase that he had heard long since, stirred in his mindYou dont cross Sim Tetlow and live He wanted to livethe assistant bookkeeperhe desired earnestly to liveand to prosper. He had done his best for yearsYet it seemed always to evade him.

m in luck, by God. Who is this genius, who can even bring stray dogs off the street past a porter? Look at the bastard not a move, not a word He looks grim enough, but he doesn

Good morning, Mamsey she often thought. Never gave me a harsh word. And so he might have been a good husband.

Mederic slackened his pace, took off his black cap adorned with red lace and wiped his forehead, for it was by this time hot in the meadows, though it was not yet eight o

Good morning, Mamsey she often thought. Never gave me a harsh word. And so he might have been a good husband.

Why didnt I give it to him in the morning?

And yet less thanks have we than you Travellers scowl at us, and countrymen give us scornful names Strider I am to one fat man who lives within a days march of foes that would freeze his heart or lay his little town in ruin, if he were not guarded ceaselessly Yet we would not have it otherwise If simple folk are free from care and fear, simple they will be, and we must be secret to keep them so That has been the task of my kindred, while the years have lengthened and the grass has grown

Doessthat serve you? Why not simply acknowledge the truth when you hear it, and move toward it? There issno need to recriminate against yourself. Simply notice what youve been choosing and choose again.

and Hezekiah begot Manassehand Manasseh begot Amonand Amon begot Josiah
The FBI had not yet confirmed the search or said what it might be for, and Trump is at the center of a slew of legal investigations

WASHINGTON: Former US president Donald Trump said Monday that his Mar-A-Lago residence in Florida was being "raided" by FBI agents in what he called an act of "prosecutorial misconduct."

"These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents," he said in a statement posted on his Truth Social network.

"It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately don't want me to run for President in 2024," Trump added.

The FBI had not yet confirmed the search or said what it might be for, and Trump is at the center of a slew of legal investigations.

The US Department of Justice is investigating the January 6 attack on the US Capitol by a mob of Trump's supporters -- an incident that is also the subject of a House of Representatives committee probe.

But Attorney General Merrick Garland has yet to point a finger at any one culprit.

"We have to hold accountable every person who is criminally responsible for trying to overturn a legitimate election," he said recently, emphasizing that "no person is above the law."

Trump taking at least 15 boxes of government documents with him to Florida following his 2020 election defeat is the subject of another probe.

Efforts to overturn the 2020 election results are also being investigated in the state of Georgia, while his business practices are being probed in New York.

The real estate mogul has not yet officially declared his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election, though he has dropped strong hints over the past few months.

With President Joe Biden's approval rating currently below 40 percent and Democrats forecast to lose control of Congress in November midterm elections, Trump is apparently bullish that he could ride the Republican wave all the way to the White House in 2024.
by Nirmala Carvalho

For the archbishop of Vasai, the law should take its course after a local official was arrested for attacking some Christians. Members of a Hindu nationalist group staged a protest in front of the police station demanding his release.

Chennai (AsiaNews)  On Sunday, after a local official named Uthman was arrested for allegedly attacking a Christian preacher and two associates, Hindu extremists protested in front of the police station accusing police of supporting the religious conversion activities of the three Christians.

Archbishop Felix Machado of Vasai spoke out following this incident in the southern state of Tamil Nadu involving these Christians and members of Munnani Hindu, a Hindu nationalist organisation.

The multireligious and multicultural character of India and the spirituality of the country must be upheld to defend life, promote peace between peoples, and care for creation, our common home, said the archbishop, who is also secretary general of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India. The freedom that our freedom fighters fought for should be the order of the day for everyone, especially to protect the weakest, he added.

According to the preliminary investigation, Uthman attacked Spendi Labersan and two of his friends who had come to the city to visit a relative in Golden Nagar, near Nanjundapuram. Members of Munnani Hindu claim that Uthman simply interrogated Labersan while he was preaching in a public place in favour of religious conversion. In his complaint, Labersan says he was stopped, threatened and eventually attacked.

It is a matter for the courts. If someone does not agree with the beliefs or actions of another, he is free to resort to legal remedies, Archbishop Machado told AsiaNews. The police made the arrests doing its duty and following lawful procedures. We have to let the law take its course."

"Religious freedom is enshrined in the preamble to the constitution, the prelate explained. To practise and propagate a faith is a right, and if this has been violated, the law can be applied and the courts can decide.

Nevertheless, There are restrictions on propagation; it is not a free field. We need to respect the freedoms of others, but no one can stop us from upholding the spirit of the preamble." More importantly, "Our religious traditions are diverse, but our differences are not the cause of conflicts and disputes, nor prejudices.

Next week, India will celebrate 75 years of independence, a period of time for the country to gain maturity and wisdom. What is more, "We have inherited a great legacy. Mahatma Gandhi was an outstanding and courageous witness of truth, love and non-violence.

Consequently, "My hope is that we will be able to avoid any kind of parochialism and restrictions on people and go beyond the narrow horizon of our own interests in order to open ourselves to a true and sincere comparison committed to the protection of fundamental rights everywhere and by everyone, remaining at all times faithful to the Indian constitution, so that everyone is accepted as a brother or sister.
by Dario Salvi

Eight years after the Islamic State seized the Nineveh Plain, families are still waiting to get their homes and land back. Opposing interests are keeping the country politically paralysed. The Chaldean primate stresses the importance of citizenship and equal rights, and a courageous national dialogue.

Milan (AsiaNews) - Eight years after Christians fled the Nineveh plain following the advance of the Islamic State (IS) group, the pain "remains raw" and the lack of prospects feeds anxiety and disappointment, this according to Card Louis Raphael Sako, Chaldean Patriarch of Baghdad.

In a message to the faithful, the Chaldean primate decries the lack of a minimum level of citizenship" and respect for "human rights even today, so much so that, after so many years, many homes and properties have not yet been returned in a climate of violations, humiliations, exclusion from the labour market without real representation in Parliament.

On the night of 6 and 7 August 2014, the feast of the Transfiguration, tens of thousands of Christians fled the Nineveh Plain ahead of the offensive by the Islamic State, which had already seized Mosul where they branded Christian homes and property with the letter N, Nasrani (Nazarene), meaning Christian.

The IS group profited from the collapse of Iraqs regular army, the success of its extremist ideology in Iraqi society, and the sudden retreat of Peshmerga forces.

In that terrible August 2014, the men of the "caliphate" seized lands inhabited by Christians for centuries, forcing them to flee to Kurdistan with only the clothes on their back.

For the Chaldean primate, Iraqi Christians should be recognised as citizens, enjoy equal rights, and be acknowledged as the countrys second-largest monotheistic religion.

He hopes that the plans for government reform envisaged by the Sadrist bloc and the Kurdish government "will also include Christians, Yazidis and Mandaeans" under the banner of shared national spirit, heeding the call for "security, dignity and freedom" made by Pope Francis in his visit in March 2021.

Hopefully, they can obtain rights hitherto denied," the prelate added. He hopes to see action against hate speech, even from pulpits, education reform, and a more positive treatment of religions because coexistence "demands respect".

However, after so many years, the situation remains difficult, with a trickle of families coming back to Mosul and some land and homes returned to their rightful owners.

According to the latest figures, only 40 per cent of Christians who fled Mosul and the Nineveh Plain have returned, while emigration from Erbil is taking entire families to Europe, the United States or Australia in search of peace and opportunities for their children.

Those who remain, or those who have come back after the Islamic States military defeat, are struggling to restart social and economic life, rebuild places of worship, and renovate ancient churches and historic monasteries.

Complicating matters, the countrys political institutions are stalled 10 months after the last parliamentary election by the failure of MPs to elect a president and approve a new cabinet.

The paralysis has been compounded by the resignation of MPs close to Shia leader Moqtada al-Sadr, whose faction won the largest number of seats. With parliament the subject of protests and occupation, fresh elections are a strong possibility.

For Patriarch Sako, the current situation appears "locked" and "devoid of public interest". Talks and negotiations are needed to outline "a road map of reforms" that Iraqis have been waiting for 19 years.

For this reason, he strongly supports the initiative of Prime Minister [Mustafa] al-Kadhimi" in favour of a courageous national dialogue.

GATEWAY TO THE EAST IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO THE MIDDLE EAST. TO RECEIVE A WEEKLY UPDATE EVERY TUESDAY, CLICK HERE.
After reunification, secessionist thoughts must be erased from their minds, this according to Lu Shaye, echoing Beijings repression in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. The Chinese envoy is no stranger to controversial statements.

Paris (AsiaNews)  The Chinese ambassador to France, Lu Shaye, has reiterated that the people of Taiwan will have to be "re-educated" once the "rebel" province is reunited with mainland China.

In the second interview in a few days to a French channel, the Chinese envoy criticised US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosis recent Taiwan visit.

Following the official line of his government, Lu justified his countrys response, which has been holding vast military exercises around the island for the past six days.

Speaking to LCI TV, Lu said the re-education of Taiwanese is necessary because Taiwanese authorities have "indoctrinated and intoxicated" the population with an anti-Chinese education.

According to the senior Chinese diplomat, secessionist thoughts and theories must be erased from the minds of the island's inhabitants.

Despite being a functioning state, Communist China considers Taiwan one of its own provinces to be retaken.

The current military exercises are meant to simulate a military blockade of the island and a possible invasion, which for many experts could be attempted within five to seven years.

The Taiwanese are increasingly hostile to reunification with the mainland, given the democratic nature of their government.

Lu's language is reminiscent of that used by Chinese leaders to defend the mainlands policies in Xinjiang and Hong Kong.

In the autonomous province, Beijing is accused of genocide against the indigenous Uyghurs and other Turkic-speaking Muslim groups, whilst in the former British colony it is seen as oppressing and silencing the pro-democracy movement.

Lu is no stranger to controversial statements. In February 2021, he sent a letter to Senator French Alain Richard warning him against travelling to Taiwan in the summer of that year. The move led to a harsh response from the French Foreign Ministry in Paris.
by Arundathie Abeysinghe

The countrys economic crisis is driving people into the hands of traffickers. The journey to the Australian coast can take up to 21 days, cost up US$ 4,000, and is full of dangers. Some of those who want to leave tell their story.

Colombo (AsiaNews)  Due to Sri Lankas economic crisis, more than 300 Sri Lankans have tried to reach Australia by paying large sums of money to human traffickers.

The Sri Lankan Navy intercepted several fishing boats loaded with asylum seekers, but at least two boats managed to reach Australian waters.

AsiaNews contacted some people who have tried to leave the country, after they were informed by "agents" that "this is the best time to reach Australia safely" because the new Labour government "has relaxed the rules concerning border issues unlike the previous Liberal government.

Despite TV news warning Sri Lankans against leaving the country illegally, Australia seems to have become a privileged destination for those who can afford to leave, even though the new Australian government has not changed its policy towards asylum seekers.

According to a senior Sri Lankan Navy official, the people attempting to leave Sri Lanka are not poor; on the contrary, they are from a certain economic background since they paid thousands of dollars."

The officer emphasised that human traffickers are interested in profit at the expense of others unconcerned about the safety of their passengers because the lives of these people are at risk during the journey.

Without basic sanitation, adequate food, or drinking water, most passengers get sick during the crossing, which can last up to 21 days from Batticaloa, on the east coast of Sri Lanka, to Christmas Island, off Western Australia.

Silva, 40, a father of two, and Jeyaraj, 52, a father of three, are both fishermen from Trincomalee, on the east coast. In the past, their business did well, but now they cannot fish because of fuel shortages, and their children are finding it difficulty to go to school because of transportation problems.

So, "what else can we do in this situation? The only solution is to go to a better country like Australia," they told AsiaNews.

Pillai, 36, from Negombo, a shop owner, was preparing to leave with his wife when their "agent" informed them that the Australian government would not grant them "permanent residence, but they might settle down after some time.

He was told that "this was the case of the Nadesalingam family", who left Sri Lanka a few years ago and were able to settle in Biloela, central Queensland, after a four-year legal battle that ended in June this year.

According to those who want to leave, the journey to Australia costs about one million Sri Lankan rupees, or about US$ 4,000. Some have borrowed from families and friends to pay the "boat owners".

In July, an Australian Border Force vessel intercepted a boat loaded with Sri Lankan migrants and escorted it to the port of Colombo, where it arrived last Friday. The boat carried 46 people from Valaichchenai, Batticaloa, Pasikuda, Ampara, Bibile, and Muthur.
The other news of the day: Chinese military exercises around Taiwan continue. Torrential rains hit South Korea. Political crisis breaks out in the Indian state of Bihar. Palestinian security officer is killed in a refugee camp in Lebanon. The Vatican and the Russian Patriarchate are working on a meeting between Pope Francis and Kirill.

MYANMAR

In the first week of August, junta troops torched 500 homes in 10 villages in the Sagaing region, the scene of major clashes between the military and groups opposed to the February 2021 coup. Due to the raids, 5,000 people fled the area. An 80-year-old woman who burnt to death is among the victims.

TAIWAN  CHINA

China continued its air and naval exercises in the skies and waters around Taiwan today. The drill, which began on 4 August in response to the visit to Taiwan of Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the US House of Representatives, was supposed to end on 7 August. Today's manoeuvres focused on blockades and resupply logistics.

SOUTH KOREA

Eight people died in the heaviest torrential rains in 80 years with six are missing. The most affected areas are the capital, Seoul, the port of Incheon, and Gyeonggi Province.

INDIA

The populous state of Bihar is facing a political crisis. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, leader of the Janata Dal, is considering quitting the governing alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Hindu nationalist party of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

PALESTINE  LEBANON

A Palestinian security officer was killed last night in a refugee camp in southern Lebanon. Said Alaadin was trying to mediate between different factions in Ain el-Hilweh, where the Lebanese authorities do not exercise full control. In recent years, clashes have broken out in the camp in question between groups favourable to Fatah of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Islamist groups.

RUSSIA  VATICAN

Russian media were full of commentaries in favour of the meeting between Pope Francis and Metropolitan Anthony, "foreign minister" of the Moscow patriarchate. Anthony's deputy, Protopresbyterian Nikolai Balashov, said the tete-a-tete took place "on the initiative of the Vatican, and was "fruitful and open to the future," especially regarding the upcoming meeting between Francis and Patriarch Kirill in Nur-Sultan.

KYRGYZSTAN  MEXICO

The number of Kyrgyz trying to enter the United States from Mexico is rising. It is relatively easy to travel from the Central Asian country to Mexico despite the high cost of plane tickets. Many of the migrants are women with children, often wives of Kyrgyz men recruited by the Russian military to fight in Ukraine for pay substantially above their country's average salary.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Construction of the new line should start by next year after 20 years of talks, linking China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. Scores of Chinese experts arrived in the Central Asian country for a feasibility study. The three countries are expected to sign a deal at the next SCO summit in Samarkand in September.

Bishkek (AsiaNews)  As many as 80 Chinese experts arrived in Kyrgyzstan to undertake a feasibility study for a railway to connect China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, the Kyrghyz Ministry of Transport and Communications announced.

The project has been discussed since the early 2000s, and the Central Asian country is determined to see it through.

Transport Minister Erkinbek Osoev met with representatives of the First Design and Survey Institute of the Chinese Railway Construction Corporation, headed by senior engineer Geng Jun.

A few days ago, Uzbekistan's acting foreign minister, Vladimir Norov, said that the three countries involved in the railway project could sign a deal as early as next month during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Samarkand (Uzbekistan) on 15-16 September.

During an official visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Bishkek, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov spoke out in favour of the project, calling for an agreement to be inked in Samarkand.

On that occasion, Japarov stressed that the new railway was a national priority for Kyrgyzstan; for his part, the Chinese minister said, we are ready to explore the possibilities of concluding a trilateral document on this project at the upcoming summit in September in Samarkand.

The Kyrgyz president also noted that construction on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway will begin by next year, to be completed within three to four years at most.

Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov said that work is set to start next autumn while Uzbek President of Shavkat Mirziyoyev noted that that the project will be realised "as soon as possible".

Discussions about the railway have been going on for 20 years, surrounded by many doubts, which now apparently have been lifted.
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The news came yesterday (August 8) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that it has given the green light for the company to restart deliveries of its 787 Dreamliner. American Airlines is said to be taking delivery of the first Dreamliner to be delivered since April 2019 as early as Wednesday and put into service in the coming weeks.The company suspended deliveries of its popular composite airplane in May 2021 after the FAA expressed concerns about a proposed inspection method regarding critical quality adherence issues. The proposed inspection method came after the FAA began investigating some 787 planes for manufacturing flaws in September of 2020.Just last month, the FAA approved the company's inspection plan that specifically focused on meeting manufacturing requirements, and all retrofit work on completed planes had been done.Despite being satisfied with the inspection process, the FAA will inspect each aircraft before an airworthiness certificate is issued and cleared for delivery; a process that is normally left up to the manufacturer.A spokesman for Boeing said it continues "to work transparently with the FAA and our customers towards resuming 787 deliveries.The deliveries could not come soon enough as it is currently sitting on 120 aircraft awaiting the delivery go-ahead representing tens of billions of dollars in gross revenue.Prior to the company stopping deliveries last year, the FAA had issued two airworthiness directives aimed at production issue for in-service aircraft. An additional directive was added in July 2021 after the delivery stoppage.Inspections revealed production flaws in the planes that included out-of-tolerance gaps between fuselage panels and an issue with the use of an out-of-spec titanium alloy for certain fuselage fittings by an Italian supplier.For its part, American Airplanes expects to take delivery of nine 787 variants of the 42 it has on order, with two coming early this month
EV

ICE

Stellantis is prepared to rock thegame with Dodges upcoming next-gen Challenger and Charger, plus the unreleased Ram 1500 EV, while the folks over at GM already have the behemoth GMC Hummer EV and eagerly prepare the stage for the arrival of the 2024 Equinox, Blazer, and Silverado EVs. Until then, though, Ford kind of must play alone.Colton and a slightly impaired Mitchell S. Watts, the affable hosts of the Town and Country TV channel on YouTube, have prepared a quick set of silent Blue Oval skirmishes. But since they are staging the intro right next to the dragstrip venue (Holiday Raceway in Woodstock, Alabama  aka The Beach),keeps interrupting their takes in the most roaring waysAnyway, when it is finally time to duke it out on the track, we already know the foes: a dealer demo (at least they fully disclosed that) Ford F-150 Lightning Standard Range, a dealer demo Ford Mustang Mach-E GT (without the Performance pack), plus Mitchells personal F-150 Lightning Extended Range. Well, these two are not exactly professional racers and that shows by the level of fun they have when fighting each other off.So, the first couple of races (from the 1:44 mark) have the Lightnings showing the notable differences between the performance exhibited with the two battery packs and logic dictates that Extended Range is the king of the dragstrip  on both occasions. Then, from the 4:18 mark, its time for the real treat as the F-150 Lightning Extended Range faces off with the Mustang Mach-E GT crossover.Spoiler alert: a Ford vehicle certainly nails the dragstrip win
Now, this is a Formula 1 summer break thats meant for fans. If you felt like the sport has been gone for too long, then dont worry  Alpine has something in store just for you!Oscar Piastri said he wont drive for Alpine in 2023, even though the team announced him as their replacement for Fernando Alonso after the 41-year-old racing driver left the French Renault-owned F1 team for Aston Martin. The move was published on all the appropriate channels and even F1 confirmed it will happen. Everything was set for Piastri to receive his promotion from F2.Unfortunately, the 21-year-old driver hopped on Twitter to say that he, in fact, wont be driving for Alpine next year. Furthermore, rumors began to spread about him replacing someone else and now everyones expecting the 2021 F2 champion to join McLaren F1s team. Daniel Ricciardos seat is supposedly in danger.Alpine doesnt agree with Oscar Piastri. They think the young driver should replace Fernando Alonso in 2023. If he doesnt choose to do so, then Alpine is ready to go to court. The French are also keen on seeking compensation for this fiasco.The team principal confirmed Alpine is ready to pursue a legal fight after the summer break is over, according to Reuters Other F1 insiders say that McLaren and Alpine could reach an agreement that would send Daniel Ricciardo to Alpine, and Oscar Piastri could race for the British in 2023. However, this is not confirmed by any public figure involved in this situation.Alpines team principal said he had expected integrity and loyalty from Piastri, as he benefitted from being part of the French Formula 1 team.Oscar Piastris contract with Alpine was signed in November 2020 and it states that he could start to race in F1 in 2023 or he could be loaned to another team for one year. Lawyers mightve already found some loopholes since Piastris confident hell race for McLaren and went public with his statement in which he said I will not drive for Alpine next year.
Ex-CEO of Fiat, billionaire, media tycoon, and member of one the most powerful families in Italy  this would be Carlo de Benedetti in a nutshell. And Solo is a floating luxury toy to match. A relatively young yacht delivered just five years ago, this head-turning beauty captures the essence of Italian style.Built by the prestigious Tankoa shipyard, Solo grabbed everyones attention as soon as it made its debut at the glamorous Monaco Yacht Show in 2018. It was awarded by RINA (Registro Italiano Navale) for being the most ecological yacht of the year.There arent many details available about its ecological performance, but according to the manufacturer, it was equipped with the latest technology for environmental protection. Even Prince Albert II of Monaco paid a special visit to it at the Show for that reason.This huge pleasure craft with a length of 236 feet (72 meters) has enough room for up to 12 guests, accommodated in six elegant staterooms. But the owners suite is beyond luxurious. Its actually an apartment, occupying an entire deck. Even the helipad was placed so that the billionaire owner could head to his apartment straight from the helicopter  talk about arriving in style. The same deck provides access to the owners private jacuzzi, lounge area, and bar.Truly fit for a billionaire, the interior that was created by Francesco Paszkowski together with Margherita Casprini is one of the most impressive weve seen on a superyacht . Forget Scandinavian minimalism or Middle Eastern opulence. Solo reveals a timeless Italian elegance thats purely masculine. With an abundance of deep blue and grey tones, this interior seems almost entirely metallic. And its also very expensive, with precious materials and furniture from Fendi Casa.If the top deck was dedicated to the owners sprawling apartment, the upper deck is a lavish relaxation heaven. This is where the main salon is located, featuring a bar, a piano, a fireplace, and offering stunning panoramic views. The dining room and a so-called TV family room are located on the main deck.In addition to a beauty salon, a gym, and a spa, Solo also boasts a huge beach club. Water fun seems to be very important since the yacht was built with three garages. They hold an impressive selection of water toys, plus two custom-built tenders, each around 24 feet (7.5 meters). A pair of Caterpillar engines allow Solo to cruise at 12 knots (13.8 mph/22 kph).It seems that the 87-year-old tycoon is ready to say goodbye to this spectacular superyacht, but anyone wishing to become the new owner must be willing to part with 71 million (approximately $72 million), according to the listing at Worth Avenue Yachts . But no one can deny that Solo is truly a statement luxury toy.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

The chronology begins on May 9th, when the South Korean automakers North American office was hit by a lawsuit alleging a metal bracket injuring the driver during the deployment of the side curtain airbag. The car in question is a MY2012 Optima equipped with a panoramic sunroof.From May 12th until June 16th, the legal department worked with the safety office and the plaintiffs counsel to schedule an inspection of the vehicle. Come June 29th, safety engineers located the driver-side plate in the occupant department, concluding that it had detached during deployment.HQ was informed of the findings on July 7th, prompting the South Korean office to investigate the issue. Not long after that, the safety boffins from Kias headquarters identified insufficient adhesive on the headliner plate.They also noted that cars equipped without a panoramic sunroof may be potentially affected. HQ further told NA that South Korea-spec vehicles have a different supplier and different adhesive application process for the headliner plates compared to the American Optimas produced in Georgia.Last, but certainly not least, headquarters failed to identify any similar incidents outside of the United States. Given these circumstances, the North American branch didnt have a choice but to recall 260k vehicles.Affected Optimas were manufactured between August 12th, 2011 and September 27th, 2013 as per the attached report. Filed with the, the document further states that all known owners will be notified by mail from September 26th to the 30th.Dealers will be instructed on September 22nd to add an industrial-grade adhesive tape over the left and right headliner plates to further secure the plates to the headliner. The industrial-grade adhesive plate was applied to the headliner plates at the start of the 2014MY Optima production. In other words, Kia may be aware of this problem for a pretty long time now.
At an official level, the American military is sitting this one out, even if it busies itself by throwing harsh words at China over its deployments around Taiwan. But unofficially, the U.S. does not shy away from flexing its muscles for all the Asian nation to see. And it has been doing so for long before current events.The U.S. has a massive military presence in what it calls the Indo-Pacific region. We often see that thanks to the photos the various branches release of their forces in action there. And one of the most recent pics showing Americas Pacific exploits is this one here.Lined up on the runway of the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan, dozens of fighter planes look like theyre sitting on parallel assembly lines, ready to be spat out from a factory in times of war. But this is just an elephant walk, performed as part of a pre-planned readiness exercise held at the said base back in July.Although, at first glance, you may be fooled youre looking at a collection of fifth-generation aircraft, the reality is a bit more complex. Sure, the first lines of this formation are occupied by eight U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) F-35 Lightnings, ten U.S. Air Force (USAF) ones, and ten F-22 Raptors , but we also get further back F/A-18 Hornets (five of them, deployed with the USMC), and a KC-130J Super Hercules way at the back of the formation.This drill comprised units of the USAF 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and Marine Aircraft Group 12, and was meant to show the world in general (and China in particular, of course), that America can easily deploy joint forces against potential threats.
kWh

EV

kW

The company is saving most details for this premiere, but it already revealed that it will have two battery pack options, with 20or 40 kWh. The former has an estimated range of 150 miles (241.4 kilometers), while the latter gets you double the range: 300 miles (482.8 km).Curiously, the larger unit is just a bit heavier than the 20-kWh battery pack. The Meyers Manx 2.0 weighs around 1,500 pounds (680 kilograms) with it and 1,650 lb (748 kg) with the 40-kWh unit. It is surprising to imagine that the extra 20 kWh imply only adding 150 lb (68 kg) to the vehicle. Either Meyers Manx has something unexpected to reveal, or these numbers are wrong.One surprise the battery pack may contain is the Coreshell technology In the story that revealed Meyers Manx was creating an electric dune buggy, TechCrunch said that Phillip Sarofim was the link between the two companies. Sarofim helped fund the battery startup, which promises a nanolayer coating solution that increases battery capacity by more than 30% and increases heat tolerance by 200%. He also bought Meyers Manx in 2020, a few months before Bruce Meyers died in 2021. Meyers said both he and Freeman Thomas were the right guys to take care of it.Thomas is the company's CEO and the designer behind the original Audi TT , the Volkswagen New Beetle, and the Jeep Treo concept car, among many others. He designed the Meyers Manx 2.0.Although it looks pretty similar to the original dune buggy, only the housing for the headlights is the same. Everything else is new, including the all-aluminum monocoque, which can make the Meyers Manx 2.0 really well suited for sandy beaches. It will be pretty protected against the corrosion usually associated with such scenarios.The bad news is that only 50 units of the electric dune buggy will be sold in 2023. Thats on purpose: Meyers Manx wants to conduct a Beta program to check with these first owners what it needs to improve before making thein higher numbers.The company said it wants to keep a close relationship with these clients and that they will help develop the final production car. Apart from owning collectible prototypes (if they get to keep them), we dont see what is in there for these customers. That will probably be announced later this month.Meyers Manx did not disclose the technical specifications for the electric dune buggy because they may still change. Despite that, we know that the new EV has independent rear suspensions. The original one also did, but we hope the sudden camber changes of the Beetle design have been eliminated.One main difference the electric dune buggy has from its predecessor is that it has two electric motors for the rear axle instead of only one. These motors are probably also not installed at the rear, which improves the handling even more than the low center of mass the battery pack will represent. We have no idea if they are related to Volkswagen in any way.These motors are expected to deliver 202 hp (151) and 240 pound-feet (325 Nm) on the 40-kWh Meyers Manx 2.0. This car will also be able to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (97 kph) in only 4.5 seconds.Considering the primary purpose of this new electric dune buggy is to have fun, it does not need fast charging, but the company will offer it anyway  as an option, mind you. The onboard charger capacity is 6 kW.Well learn everything that is still missing on August 19, when the company will also open pre-orders for those that want an actual production car in 2024. Applications to those willing to be among the 50 first owners  for whatever Meyers Manx has to offer them  will begin on the same day. The new electric dune buggy will be just the first of other Meyers Manx products Thomas and his team are trying to conceive. They certainly have our attention.
Depicting the battery-electric vehicle as something that Aussies would call a ute, they bear the signature of photo.chopshop on Instagram, and they made their way to the World Wide Web a few hours ago.The car has remained the same up to the B pillars. The C pillars were moved forward in order to make room for the open bed behind the passenger compartment, which is the highlight of the build. A tailgate that resembles the original trunk lid, still hosting the Porsche and Taycan emblems in the middle, below the lighting strip linking the taillights together, provides access to it, and it is illuminated courtesy of two lights mounted on the roof, above the rear windscreen.In order to make it happen, the rendering artist had to reshape the rear fenders, which are now much bigger than before. The doors havent been elongated, but the rear ones were deleted. Moreover, it has bigger three quarter windows that suit the new design much better. The wheels, exterior color, and everything else, including the interior, bar the rear seats, carry over from the real Taycan.Now, you can ask Porsche as much as you want for an open-bed version of the Taycan, and they will tell you no. After all, its bad enough for the sedans, minivans, and other body styles that are not crossovers in order for them to risk a lot of money on a body style that would fall into a niche . But hypothetically speaking, would you ever consider buying one if they gave it the green light for production?
Car theft has become common these days, with statistics showing increases across the board. But youd expect the police to be on top of this, ready to catch the criminals or at least find the stolen vehicles. This is the ideal case, but sometimes the reality shows that police cannot protect themselves.This has become obvious in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania after a traffic stop got eerie. It happened on Interstate 81 in Silver Spring Township shortly before noon on August 4, when the police stopped a car for a regular check.The two people inside the car fled the scene, somehow managing to steal the Ford Taurus-based Police Interceptor Sedan . Thats when the troopers in the area began to pursue the vehicle driven by the 30-year-old Hanif Malik Hall. Meanwhile, the 31-year-old Malik Lamar Clover reportedly jumped from the passenger seat and ran to a nearby hotel, where he was later arrested.As you can see in the video captured by a witness, the thief behind the wheel drove the police vehicle into the oncoming lane, stopping briefly on the side of the road. Thats when another police vehicle slammed into the stolen police car. The short video then shows a Police Interceptor Utility performing a PIT maneuver, spinning the stolen vehicle around. The clip abruptly ends without revealing the outcome, but according to local media, police managed to disable the car.That was not the end of the story. According to CBS 21 , Hall abandoned the stolen vehicle and fled on foot, but he was arrested shortly after that. The two thieves now face multiple charges, including the robbery of a motor vehicle, fleeing and eluding, and other charges.
The events that are currently taking place not just in Ukraine but in other parts of the world as well, such as the Middle East, clearly demonstrate the enhanced role of todays UAS in military conflicts. An asset that becomes a threat when used by the enemy, drones have quickly led to the development of countermeasure systems.UKs Royal Air Force introduced the Orcus Counter-Uncrewed Air System (C-UAS) two years ago as part of Project Synergia. Like most systems of this kind, the Orcus is supposed to detect and identify what are known as hostile drones and take them down if they pose a serious threat. Usually, these C-UAS systems are an important protection element for key infrastructure. This includes air bases, both on British territory and overseas, wherever RAF personnel operates.RAF officials say that the UAS problem has grown to the point where C-UAS capabilities have become a matter of national security . The most recent development related to that is training the RAF Regiment Gunners from the 2 Force Protection Wing to take the lead.They will become experts in operating Fixed Site C-UAS. According to Wing Commander Wiseman, through their deployment at various operational theaters, they have experienced first-hand the very real and extremely potent threat posed from Uncrewed Air System.RAFs Synergia Project was dedicated to counter-drone research and development, with Leonardo being the main industry partner. The Orcus device was described as looking like a camera module placed on top of a tripod. It doesnt look menacing, but it boasts advanced radar, electro-optic and radio frequency sensors, plus electronic attack capabilities.Last year, Leonardo took the Orcus power to the next level by integrating the Ninja technology developed by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The Ninja is capable of jamming and taking command of a hostile drone at a short range and then directing it to a safe location.
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The SPS (Sport Production Special) trim of Ducati s 996 lineup saw a mere 1,780 units assembled during its two-year production run. Besides the beefed-up powerplant, what sets it apart from a base variant is the presence of adjustable Ohlins suspension componentry and lighter five-spoke Marchesini wheels.Behind the creatures bodywork dwells a liquid-cooled Desmoquattro L-twin with eight valves and Marelli fuel injection hardware. In stock form, the engine can achieve a maximum power output of 123 horses and 73 pound-feet (99 Nm) of torque at the crankshaft. Traveling to the rear hoop via a dry hydraulic clutch and a six-speed transmission, this force will ultimately bring about a top speed of 168 mph (270 kph).For braking duties, the 996 SPS uses dual 320 mm (12.6 inches) semi-floating discs up front and a single 220 mm (8.7 inches) module out back, all of which are bitten by Brembo calipers. At twelve oclock, Bolognas rarity is perched atop inverted 43 mm (1.7 inches) forks with titanium nitride treatment, while its rear end sits on a rising-rate monoshock featuring compression and rebound adjustability.Above the paragraphs youve just read, one may see a 2000 model equipped with Corbin saddle upholstery, new Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires, and a Silmotor exhaust made of titanium. Moreover, this stunning exemplar carries a Yoyodyne slipper clutch, carbon fiber air intake tubes, and a big bore kit that boosts displacement to 1,040cc.Once the aforementioned hardware had been installed, the SPS was promptly put on the dyno to reveal its peak output  139 hp and 87 pound-feet (118 Nm) of twist. This Italian crotch rocket is now heading to auction with 6,700 miles (10,800 km) under its belt, and it will remain listed on Bring a Trailer until Thursday, August 11. As of now, the leading bidder is offering $11k in the hope of scoring Ducatis wonder.
Apart from incorporating those lessons into their business model, they are encouraging other companies to apply for the upcoming rounds of the program. Stellantis, along with the program organizers, realized that a lot of Black-owned businesses are small in size. Going on from that, the initiative was built around lessons on creating a brand, building up capacity, and managing finances. The initial group graduated in February, and Stellantis reported that the next assembly of companies will be announced this month.Profitable Black company owners also participated in the program, telling their success stories and helping inspire the participants. One of them was Leon Richardson, CEO of Chemico Group, a chemical management company based in Southfield, Michigan, with clients in various industries Another focus of the initiative was helping the Black business owners and executives learn the best ways to refine their elevator pitches. One of the participants was most satisfied by this part of the training. Owner of fuel supplier ACE Petroleum , Moses Shepherd, said that learning about this was instrumental in growing his customer base. Inspired by the lessons received from Stellantis and is now looking at everyone in his company for their elevator pitches.Adam Claytor, CEO of Coltrane Logistics & Trucking in Wixom, Michigan, found the financial management and capacity-building sides of the program to be the most helpful. He said they were critical in understanding how to grow his business. According to him, most people only think about having customers when they open a business, without realizing how important it is to have the capability to scale.Greg Hawkins, the automakers supervisor of provider variety, said that Stellantis consulted with suppliers to understand what elements to include in their curriculum. Moving forward, the goal of this initiative is to provide businesses with virtual training and give them access to an online marketplace that bridges the public and private sectors to create opportunities for Black suppliers.You can read the original story here
EV

We know Teslas ambitions to become the number one carmaker in the world, not just for electric vehicles but overall. To accomplish such a feat in the self-imposed time frame, Tesla would need to build 10-12 gigafactories , each with an average output of 1.5 to 2 million units. These are required to reach a planned production of 20 million vehicles per year by 2030. The clock is ticking, so Tesla needs to seriously think about its next gigafactory past the Giga Texas.Elon Musk revealed during the Cyber Roundup last week that Canada is one of the locations weighted for a production facility in North America. This seems rather strange, considering that Tesla already operates three gigafactories in the region. Nevertheless, Tesla predicts the demand for EVs in the northern hemisphere will increase once the U.S. speeds upadoption in the coming years. The plans were already put in place, and a lobbying organization is in talks with the Canadian authorities.The information was first revealed by Electric Autonomy Canada , which obtained a copy of Teslas filing with the local authorities. This is because Canada requires companies to disclose all their lobbying efforts to the government. According to the filing, Tesla is seeking fast approval and possibly incentives to build an advanced manufacturing facility in Ontario. The legal language is complicated, as you can see below:[Teslas objective is to] Engage with the government and its agencies to identify opportunities for industrial and/or advanced manufacturing facility permitting reforms with the intent to increase the competitiveness of Ontario and its ability to attract capital investment through establishing approvals timeframes that are competitive with high-growth manufacturing locations in North America, while also working with government to identify or align incentives programs that could further increase the attractiveness of Ontario for industrial and/or advanced manufacturing investment.According to Drive Tesla , the EV maker has made investments in Ontario before. Tesla has advertised a position for a senior policy associate in critical minerals and supply chain to be based in the city. Tesla also has a battery equipment factory that supplies the gigafactories in Berlin and Texas.
EV

Seems quite likely at least based on revenue in 2022 & possibly total units in 2023  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 26, 2021

The common wisdom says that Tesla is poised to bleed themarket share to the established car makers entering the EV market. This is logical, considering that Tesla was once the only one selling electric vehicles but is now one of the many competing in this field. Nevertheless, nobody considered that Tesla would erode other carmakers market share. This has become obvious in the past months, and now Elon Musk reminded everyone that Tesla Model Y is poised to become the number one selling vehicle in the world, and rather soon.This is interesting since many things that Elon Musk promises seldom prove true. Nevertheless, this one seems spot on. In April 2021, Musk said that the Model Y would become the top-selling vehicle based on revenue in 2022 and total units in 2023. The Tesla Cyber Roundup was where Musk confirmed that his remarks came true, and the Model Y is already the top-selling vehicle by revenue. Its not far from fulfilling the other Musks prophecy and becoming the best-selling vehicle by volume in 2023.This is one of the few predictions Musk made that actually have a chance to come true in time. After all, the Model Y is already the best-selling electric vehicle in the world. Right now, the Toyota Corolla is number one, with a little over one million units sold in 2021. For comparison, Tesla sold a total of 936,222 EVs last year. Nevertheless, the EV maker is rapidly ramping up production at its four gigafactories and is on track to sell 1.3 million EVs in 2022.With Giga Texas and Giga Berlin running at full capacity, theres little doubt that Tesla Model Y can become the best-selling vehicle in the world next year. This is especially true as the new gigafactories are optimized for Model Y production. Considering that Tesla will likely sell every Model Y it builds, more than one million units will be sold by the end of the year. This is even more impressive considering the Model Y price of around $70,000.
The Bonneville Speed Week is a six-day event that takes place on the Bonneville Salt Flats  a place where traffic rules dont exist, and speed limits are Well, non-existent. Thats why enthusiasts, people passionate about showing off their build, and drivers that want to experience the extreme are always preparing for this opportunity. This is also the place where records are being broken This year the event shouldve taken place from the 6th of August until the 12th. Unfortunately, abundant rain came and flooded the area. This meant nobody could do anything. The event was canceled, even though participants came from countries like the UK or Sweden.Because the Bonneville Salt Flats are, as the name suggests, an area of a little over 30,000 acres covered in a crust of white salt, when it encounters water, the whole thing turns into a mushy surface that can pose a lot of problems. Getting out, for example, could be a challenge. Another unwanted effect is rust. That much salt is not going to be good for vehicles. Corrosion is a worry.The last time it rained so heavily during the Bonneville Speed Week was in 2014, when many vehicles couldnt make it out and had to be abandoned for a couple of days before the recovery process couldve begun.If youre planning on visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats , dont worry. The rain is gone, and the drying process has already started. It might take three or four days, so adjust your schedule accordingly. However, keep an eye on the weather forecasts. Things might shift in the other direction pretty quickly.
Alec Monopoly visited Sardinia, Italy, for the first time, to attend a Jacob & Co event, which means everything had to be top-notch. Luckily, his ride fit the description, as he went for a Rolls-Royce Ghost.

11 photos
SUV

Some will go after the benefits of comfort and suicide doors with the Brits over at Rolls-Royce. Others will love the high-performance super-perks offered by Italians from Sant'Agata Bolognese. So, naturally, the choice may seem simple: its either the posh Cullinan or the aggressive Urus But since all others  from Bentleys Bentayga to Mercedes-Maybachs GLS and everything in between (DBX, G 63s, Range Rovers included) are so far behind them  it has become rather hard for both parties to stand out in their respective, affluent crowds. No worries, though, as the aftermarket realm is always eager to please.So, even though Rolls-Royce can easily hook you up to bespoke stuff like the Black Badge Cullinan and whatnot, folks who spend top dollar on a Cullinan might want to further emphasize they just threw away around half a million dollars on a new set of wheels. Sometimes, quite literally, part of the custom tradition is to have a cooler set of aftermarket wheels on board.This is how we encountered a recent showcase by the good folks over at performance wheel specialist AL13 Wheels Design + Technik, with the aftermarket company setting the Instagram spotlight on a dark and menacing Rolls-Royce Cullinan thats almost all black. The murdered-out crowd may or may not be pleased that some chrome elements were left intact. The Cullinan rides lowered on a full-face set of 24-inch C00 - 109R three-piece deep-dish wheels finished in Gloss Black everywhere, even on the floating Rolls-Royce cap.But that is not all, as this slammed ride has the proper attitude of a (mob) boss by way of exhibiting some cool widebody aerodynamic kit traits on top of that crazy window tint! So, does it get a custom hall pass, or not?
Palmdale, CA (93550)

Today

Clear skies. Gusty winds during the evening. Low near 75F. SW winds at 20 to 30 mph, decreasing to 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Gusty winds during the evening. Low near 75F. SW winds at 20 to 30 mph, decreasing to 10 to 15 mph.
Images of such checkpoints along the road linking Meghri to other towns appeared on the internet earlier this week, raising speculations about possible preparations for the opening of transit routes for Azerbaijan via the strategic mountainous region.

Syunik is the Armenian province through which Azerbaijan expects to get a highway and railroad connection with its western exclave of Nakhichevan under the terms of the Russia-brokered 2020 ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh. Under the document, Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) is to ensure the security of traffic along the transport routes in Armenia for Azerbaijan.

Yerevan insists that it should maintain sovereignty over the roads, while Baku is seeking an extraterritorial status for them amounting to a corridor similar to the Russia-controlled Lachin corridor that connects Armenia with Nagorno-Karabakh.

At a government session on August 4, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian again implicitly rejected the corridor logic for the unblocking of regional transport routes, saying that Azerbaijan even today can use all parts of Armenia, and not only Syunik, for transit purposes in accordance with Armenian legislation.

We have been saying all the while that we are ready to provide this connection between the western districts of Azerbaijan and Nakhichevan. We are ready to ensure this connection even today, but it is Azerbaijan that does not use these opportunities offered by us. Even today we say: come, cross the border of Armenia, go to Nakhichevan in the manner prescribed by the legislation of the Republic of Armenia, Pashinian said.

Pashinian spoke after the latest escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh in which at least two Armenian and one Azerbaijani soldiers were killed in fresh fighting near the Lachin corridor where Russian peacekeepers are deployed under the terms of the 2020 ceasefire.

Amid the escalation ethnic Armenian authorities in Nagorno-Karabakh announced that several Armenian villages along the current corridor would be evacuated until September when Armenians are to start using an alternative road connecting Armenia and the Armenian-populated region.

Bagrat Zakarian, mayor of Meghri, told RFE/RLs Armenian Service on Tuesday that the Russian checkpoints recently spotted in Syunik were actually set up several months ago. In total, he said, five such checkpoints were placed at roads leading from Meghri to several towns and villages in Syunik.

After media reports about the installation of new Russian checkpoints near Meghri, the FSB Border Guards Department in Armenia explained that it was done in coordination with Armenian authorities to prevent illegal cross-border activities.

In order to expose, prevent and thwart cases of smuggling, illegal migration and other offenses, in accordance with the law of the Republic of Armenia On the State Border and in coordination with the Government, the National Security Service and other competent bodies of the Republic of Armenia, a number of equipped positions were formed early this year for the implementation of the border control service, it said.

According to the FSB, a tense situation has been observed recently at the Meghri section of the Armenian-Iranian state border due to increased attempts of illegally smuggling drugs and psychoactive substances from Iran to Armenia. Moreover, according to the Russian side, violations of the border by representatives of extremist and terrorist groups were also recorded.

Last year, in the area of the border guard detachment of Meghri, Russian border guards arrested two armed persons who had a large amount of weapons and ammunition with them, the FSB said.

Armenian government officials have not yet commented on the presence of Russian checkpoints along the roads in Syunik.

Meanwhile, Meghris mayor acknowledged that the checkpoints create certain problems for local tourism.

Tourists have to go through passport control procedures before they can visit several rural areas here, Zakarian said.
In a statement delivered to the OSCE Special Permanent Council in Vienna, the U.S. missions Charge dAffaires Courtney E. Austrian also said that the United States expresses its deep concern over the reports of intensive fighting around Nagorno-Karabakh, including casualties and the loss of life.

We are closely following the situation [in Nagorno-Karabakh] and urge immediate steps to reduce tensions and avoid further escalation, Austrian said.

As we have said many times at the Permanent Council, the United States emphasizes the importance of a negotiated, comprehensive, and sustainable settlement of all remaining issues related to or resulting from the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, she added.

The diplomat reminded that last week U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken personally engaged Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to urge de-escalation and direct contacts to reduce tensions.

The United States is ready to engage bilaterally, with like-minded partners, and through our role as an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair to facilitate dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan and help achieve a long-term political settlement to the conflict, Austrian said.

At least one Azerbaijani and two ethnic Armenian soldiers were killed during the August 1-3 escalation in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone that both parties blamed on each other.

Azerbaijan and Armenia have been locked in a conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh for years.

The mostly Armenian-populated region that had the status of an autonomous oblast within Soviet Azerbaijan declared its independence from Baku amid the collapse of the Soviet Union, triggering a 1992-94 war that claimed an estimated 30,000 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands of people.

The war ended in a Russia-brokered ceasefire, leaving Nagorno-Karabakhs ethnic Armenians in control of most of the region as well as several adjacent districts of Azerbaijan proper.

Internationally mediated negotiations with the involvement of the OSCE Minsk Group -- co-chaired by the United States, Russia, and France -- failed to result in a resolution before another large-scale war broke out in September 2020.

The 44-day conflict that killed more than 6,500 people ended in a Moscow-brokered ceasefire, with Azerbaijan regaining control of all districts surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh as well as large swaths of territory inside the former autonomous oblast itself. Some 2,000 Russian peacekeepers were deployed in the region to oversee the truce.
FILE - As heavy smoke rolls out of the stricken USS West Virginia, a small boat rescues a crew member from the water after the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Dec. 7, 1941 during World War II. Remains of a man killed in the attack at Pearl Harbor have been identified as a Navy sailor from Southern California. Shipfitter 2nd class Claude Ralph Garcia was 25 years old on Dec. 7, 1941, when Japanese forces bombed the military installation in Hawaii. He was assigned to the USS West Virginia.
Authorities in Northern California are asking for the publics help in finding a 16-year-old girl who went missing after attending a party at a campground and may have been abducted
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TEHRAN, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Khayyam satellite was successfully launched into space from the Baikonur space station in Kazakhstan by Russia's Soyuz satellite carrier rocket on Tuesday, the official news agency IRNA reported.

Iranian experts and researchers were waiting to receive signals the satellite, Saeed Sediqian, deputy director of the Iran Space Agency (ISA), was quoted as saying.

The initial signals from the Khayyam satellite were expected to be received later when it crosses the Iranian sky, said Sediqian.

One of the most important steps taken by the Iranian space industry is to calculate the country's strategic needs with satellite data, he said, adding that the development of indigenous satellites has also been on the agenda.

The Khayyam satellite will monitor the country's agricultural productivity as well as mining and mineral discoveries, and deal with deforestation and natural or environmental hazards, according to a report published on the ISA website. 
Police have identified a local woman killed in a car accident over the weekend.

Madison Thibodeau, 23 of Lumberton, was found dead on the scene.

Beaumont Police Department responded to a "major" single car crash at 11:55 p.m. Sunday at Southbound Cardinal Drive and Texas 347, according to a city of Beaumont news release.

Once officers arrived, they found a two-door Jeep "fully engulfed in flames" in the grass.

Before officers arrived, the Jeep's driver was able to escape the vehicle.

"Beaumont Fire extinguished the flames and a passenger was located inside the vehicle deceased," the news release reads. "The deceased victim was identified as Madison Thibodeau, a 23 year old Lumberton resident."

The driver was taken to a local hospital, according to the release.

The crash is currently under investigation.
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LOS ANGELES (AP)  The driver suspected of causing a fiery crash that killed five people, including a pregnant woman, was charged Monday with murder.

Nicole Lorraine Linton was charged with six counts of murder and five counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, according to the Los Angeles County district attorney's office. One murder charge was filed for the pregnant woman's unborn child.

She could face 90 years to life in prison if convicted of all charges.

Linton, a 37-year-old traveling nurse from Houston, Texas, made her first court appearance Monday after being released from a hospital over the weekend. Linton, who appeared in a wheelchair, didn't enter a plea and her arraignment was continued to October. She was ordered held without bail pending a bail hearing next week.

Prosecutors said Linton's Mercedes-Benz was doing 90 mph (144 kph) last Thursday when it ran a red light and smashed into cars in a crowded intersection in unincorporated Windsor Hills about 10 miles (16 km) southwest of downtown Los Angeles. Several victims were thrown from the cars and several vehicles caught fire.

The crash killed 23-year-old Asherey Ryan, her 11-month-old son Alonzo Quintero and her boyfriend, Reynold Lester, Shaseana Kerr said in a GoFundMe posting.

Lesters family told KABC-TV that the 24-year-old security guard was the father of Ryans 8 1/2-month-old unborn child. The family has said Ryan was on the way to a doctors appointment for a prenatal checkup when she was killed.

One murder charge  but not an additional charge of vehicular manslaughter  was filed for the fetus, who was identified by the coroners office as Armani Lester and listed as born on the same day he died.

A young family was destroyed in the blink of an eye, District Attorney George Gascon said at a news conference.

Two other women were also killed but their names werent made public as of Monday.

While the wreckage of this fiery crash at this intersection was removed and traffic eventually resumed, there is catastrophic damage to the families and friends of those killed and injured," Gascon said. It is not only a tremendous loss to the families but our entire community who learned of this incredible tragedy or have watched the now viral video of the collision," he said.

In court, Linton's lawyer, Halim Dhanidina, said his client has an out-of-state history of profound mental health issues that might be linked to the crash but didnt specify, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Authorities said they haven't found any evidence that Linton was under the influence of alcohol but prosecutors said she had at least 13 previous crashes  including a 2020 injury accident that totaled two cars  and knew the threat posed by her driving behavior, the Times said.
While there are many great areas for stargazing within driving distance of L.A., the historic gold rush town of Julian is a class unto itself.

High up in the Cuyamaca Mountains, Julian is Californias most recent International Dark Sky Community, joining an elite group of 37 spots worldwide with exceptional visibility. Julian is famous for its apple pie and charming, old-timey shops, but we know the real action starts at night when meteor showers light up the darkness  specifically the Perseids, considered the best meteor shower of the year, which will happen from July 23 to August 22. At its peak (August 11 to 13), expect to see up to fifty meteors per hour in the predawn darkness.

A sense of history pervades Julian, a town that has long attracted seekers of fortune, and its easy to fill up a weekend here. During the daytime, explore the areas roots at the Julian Mining Co, where panning for gold and gem mining appeal to kids of all ages. The family-owned farm Fort Cross flings open its barn doors on the weekends for candle-dipping, tomahawk tossing, hayrides and other activities. Across the street is Julian Station, a converted apple-packing facility with beer and wine tasting rooms, antiques and an art center. After working up an appetite, head to town for some slow-smoked barbecue on the shaded deck of Julian Beer Co., which happens to be next door to one of the top spots for Julians classic apple pie.

But what would a Dark Sky Community be without a few star parties? On August 20, the Julian Natural Wonderfest mixes meteorites with music, art and wildlife encounters at Jess Martin Park. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. and end at the family-friendly hour of 11 p.m., with a free shuttle between the town and the park. On August 26 and 27, the Julian Starfest returns after a two-year, pandemic-induced hiatus. Run by the San Diego Astronomy Association, the lineup includes telescope demos, food, games and behind-the-scenes observatory tours.

As for stargazing, Julian has a number of excellent vantages:

Just off Highway 79 sits Desert View Park, which is actually not a park but a scenic overlook with sweeping sky views (during the day, you can spy the Salton Sea). The paved loop has no designated parking spots or amenities, but the vantage point is unparalleled, says the Julian Chamber of Commerce. Youll probably hang out by your car here, so pack whatever you need including food, water and a folding chair. If youre making a weekend out of it, get into the Old West spirit and book a stay at nearby Banner Ranch. This unique campground offers lodging in covered wagons (with mini-fridges and bathrooms!) along with Lucky Lous Saloon, where you can wet your whistle.

A 15-minute drive south of downtown Julian, Lake Cuyamaca is jam-packed with gorgeous night sky vistas  this is the spot to bring a high-end camera. Photo ops abound with piers, fishing docks and jetties around the small lake, providing a nice foreground. Adventure-seekers can take off on one of the forested trails that criss-cross the area or hike to a mountain top for a prime viewing spot; trailheads for the Cuyamaca and Stonewall peaks are a four-minute drive away on Highway 79. Summer weather is mercifully moderate, with average highs of 86 degrees, but when the wind picks up at night, temperatures drop, so bundle up and bring an extra jacket.

Located just outside of Julian in the Cleveland National Forest, Mount Laguna is one of the most renowned stargazing spots in San Diego County. After all, the Mount Laguna Observatory has been operating here since 1968. Punctuating the stands of pines and oaks are open meadows and clearings, providing unobstructed views of shooting stars. Though GPS works in the area, cell phone coverage is spotty, so its a good idea to grab a map at the visitors center before heading out. Try glamping at Laguna Campground through Alter Experiences, or check out the meadows adjacent to the rustic El Prado campground for prime meteor viewing.

This article was featured in the InsideHook LA newsletter. Sign up now for more from the Southland.

The post The Best Place to See the Perseid Meteor Shower Is 140 Miles From LA appeared first on InsideHook.
Mongolian president meets with Chinese FM

Xinhua) 08:44, August 09, 2022

ULAN BATOR, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh met with Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi here on Monday.

Asking Wang to convey his sincere greetings to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Khurelsukh said that Mongolia and China share a long history of exchanges, and are permanent friendly neighbors and good friends sharing weal and woe, with no political divergence or unresolved issues.

Mongolia firmly adheres to the one-China principle and believes that the issues related to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Tibet and Xinjiang are China's internal affairs, he said, noting that this is a consistent policy of the Mongolian side, and it will not change.

He said that Mongolia sincerely admires the great development achievements made by its friendly neighbor under the outstanding leadership of President Xi, and is glad to see that thanks to efforts on both sides, the important consensus reached by the two heads of state has been effectively implemented, and the goal of 10-billion-U.S. dollar bilateral trade volume has been successfully achieved.

The Mongolian side appreciates China's insistence on sharing development opportunities with neighbors, which helps Mongolia achieve common development and win-win cooperation, he said, adding Mongolia is willing to strengthen the synergy of development strategies of the two countries and deepen cooperation in various fields such as economy, trade, ports, infrastructure, and desertification prevention and control, so as to elevate the Mongolia-China comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level.

The Mongolian president said he is looking forward to strengthening the exchanges between the Mongolian People's Party and the Communist Party of China (CPC), and opening a new century of cooperation between the two century-old major parties. He wishes the upcoming 20th National Congress of the CPC a complete success.

Mongolia highly appreciates China's epidemic prevention and control policy, which not only effectively guarantees the health and well-being of the 1.4 billion Chinese people, but also makes important contributions to the global fight against the pandemic, Khurelsukh said.

He expressed his sincere gratitude to China for overcoming its own difficulties and providing multiple batches of vaccines and anti-epidemic materials to Mongolia.

The Mongolian side speaks highly of China's positive contribution to defending the UN Charter and attaches great importance to the significance of the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative in promoting world peace, security and development, in which Mongolia will actively support, participate, deepen synergy with and put into practice, Khurelsukh said.

For his part, Wang conveyed the cordial greetings from President Xi to President Khurelsukh, noting that China and Mongolia are good neighbors that cannot be traded for gold, good brothers who share weal and woe, and good partners who overcome tough times together.

The two sides joined hands to fight the epidemic by gifting one another with sheep and tea, writing a new story of friendship between the two countries, Wang said.

Firmly adhering to the principle of "people first, life first," China is committed to protecting the life and health of the Chinese people, and has contributed to the global fight against COVID-19, which reflects the responsibility of a major country with a large population, Wang said.

China will continue to adhere to the existing policy, coordinate the epidemic prevention and control with socio-economic development, and continue to provide anti-epidemic support according to Mongolia's needs, so as to jointly defeat the epidemic, he said.

The Chinese side will continue to carry out all-round mutually beneficial cooperation with Mongolia under the guidance of President Xi's concept of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and the principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interests, he added.

China will always be a major country that accommodates the comfort of its neighbors, provides support and assistance to them, and develops together with them, Wang said.

China is willing to cooperate with Mongolia to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and, in the direction towards building a community with a shared future, to deepen the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolia's Prairie Road development strategy, the Global Development Initiative and Mongolia's New Revival Policy, as well as China's "two-stage" strategic plan and Mongolia's long-term development policy, so as to help Mongolia transform its resources and geographical endowments into development advantages, and better benefit the Mongolian people with the development of China-Mongolia relations, he said.

China appreciates Mongolia's reaffirmation of its firm support for the one-China principle and its opposition to interference in China's internal affairs, Wang said, adding that China also supports Mongolia in safeguarding its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and taking a development path that suits its own national conditions.

Citing a Chinese proverb which goes like "For our friends, we have fine wine. For jackals or wolves, we welcome with shotguns," Wang said the Chinese side is willing to join hands with Mongolia and other developing countries to move forward together, continue to support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests, jointly maintain peace and tranquility, build a beautiful homeland, and benefit future generations.

During his visit to Mongolia, Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene and Chairman of the State Great Hural (Parliament) Gombojav Zandanshatar met with Wang, respectively.

Also on Monday, Wang held talks with Mongolian Foreign Minister Batmunkh Battsetseg and attended a joint press conference. The two sides signed documents on foreign ministries' cooperation between the two countries and witnessed the signing of cooperation documents about railway ports, health quarantine and others.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
BEIRUT, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Tuesday warned Israel against making any miscalculations toward Lebanon, stressing that the Lebanese party will spare no efforts to protect Lebanon's oil and gas.

"We are very serious in our fight for Lebanon's wealth. We should be ready for all options in response to Israeli threats," Nasrallah said in a televised speech commemorating the Shiite holy day of Ashura, sending a clear message that Hezbollah is prepared for military actions.

Nasrallah warned enemies not to commit any error with Lebanon and its people, or with the "stronger than ever" resistance in Lebanon on the issues of oil and gas, or maritime borders.

Lebanese authorities are trying to reach a solution with Israel to end a dispute over maritime borders which has escalated after Israel on June 5 sent a vessel to the Karish field, which Israel claims is within its economic zone while Lebanon claims it is in disputed waters.

U.S. energy envoy Amos Hochstein announced earlier this month that he was optimistic about reaching a solution to maritime dispute between Lebanon and Israel following his visits to both countries. 
Taiwans top diplomat on Tuesday said Chinas military drills show it is preparing for invasion of the island, but a top U.S. defense official says Beijing is trying to change the status quo gradually and an attempted takeover is not imminent.

Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu called a press briefing to lay out his governments position on Chinas military exercises launched after last weeks visit to the self-governing island by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

China has used the drills in its military play-book to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan, Wu said.

Chinas real intention behind these military exercises is to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and the entire region, the minister said, warning that Beijings behavior toward Taiwan is merely a pretext and its ambitions and impact is extending far beyond Taiwan.

China was continuing its military pressure on Taiwan with more air and naval drills off the back of its initial four-day exercise after Pelosi left the democratic island, which Beijing considers to be part of China. Beijing also announced a new series of military drills in the South China Sea, Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea will continue until next month.

On Tuesday, the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) continued to organize practical joint exercises in the sea and airspace around Taiwan Island, focusing on joint blockades and joint resupply logistics, the Ministry of Defense in Beijing said in a statement.

The PLA carried out anti-submarine and sea assault drills in waters around Taiwan on Monday, sending 13 warships and 39 aircraft, about half of which crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait.

But U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl said Washingtons defense policy makers do not think China could take over Taiwan militarily in the next two years although he said China is trying to salami slice their way into a new status quo in the region instead.

Clearly the PRC is trying to coerce Taiwan, clearly theyre trying to coerce the international community, and all Ill say is were not going to take the bait and its not going to work, Kahl told reporters at the Pentagon on Monday, referring to China by its official name the Peoples Republic of China.

What well do instead is to continue to fly, to sail and to operate wherever international law allows us to do so, and that includes in the Taiwan Strait, the undersecretary said, adding that he thinks theres a lot of confidence in that U.S. commitment.

That means the U.S. military is set to continue transiting the Taiwan Strait, which it considers international waters, as well as conducting freedom of navigation operations in the South China and East China seas.

President Joe Biden on Monday said he was not worried about Chinas military exercises around Taiwan but was concerned that theyre moving as much as they are.

But I dont think theyre going to do anything more [than] they are, he told reporters at the Delaware Air National Guard Base.

The Eastern Theater Command of Chinas PLA conducts a long-range live-fire drill into the Taiwan Strait, from an undisclosed location, Aug. 4, 2022. [PLA Eastern Theater Command Handout via Reuters]

US keeping watch

Kahl also explained the reason behind the Pentagons initial hesitance about Pelosis visit to Taiwan last week. Biden told reporters 10 days before the trip that U.S. military officials believed its not a good idea, for now.

Were at a moment of profound international tension, Kahl said. I think there was a sense that  the world didnt require another instance of rising tensions but it is what it is and the speaker had every right to go and when she made the final decision we were fully supportive.

Beijing reacted angrily to the visit, threatening the strongest countermeasures and announcing unprecedented military drills around Taiwan.

For the first time, the PLA reportedly fired missiles over Taiwans main island, some of which landed in Japans exclusive economic zone within 200 nautical miles (370 km) from its shores.

The U.S. military responded by deploying warships and aircraft in the area.

U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier the USS Ronald Reagan and its strike group has been in northern Philippine Sea after being ordered by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to remain on station in the general area to monitor the situation.

A big deck amphibious assault ship, the USS Tripoli, is in the Philippine Sea, according to the U.S. Naval Institute.

Maps show the USS Howard O. Lorenzens position and path. [Marine Traffic]

Data provided by the ship tracking website Marine Traffic show that the missile-tracking ship USNS Howard O. Lorenzen has been operating in the waters east of Taiwan for several days.

Equipped with a sophisticated radar system, its purpose is to track airborne missiles, said Gordon Arthur, a military analyst and Asia-Pacific editor of Shephard Media, a defense news portal.

Given its proximity to Taiwan, Id say thats exactly what its been doing, Arthur told Radio Free Asia, an online affiliate of BenarNews.
Former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos speaks at the Capas National Shrine after leading thousands of veterans on the Capas Freedom March, a reenactment of the Bataan Death March during World War II, in Capas, Philippines, April 11, 2016. [Jojo Rinoza/BenarNews]

Leanna Ramos Sembrano lowers the urn of her grandfather, former leader Fidel V. Ramos, during his inurnment at the Heroes' Cemetery as his widow (far right), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and others watch, Aug. 9, 2022. [FOCAP POOL/Reuters/Lisa Marie David]

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. offers a white rose for former President Fidel V. Ramos during his inurnment at the Heroes' Cemetery in Taguig City, Philippines, Aug. 9, 2022. [FOCAP POOL/Reuters/Lisa Marie David]

Leanna Ramos Sembrano, the granddaughter of former Philippine President Fidel Ramos, carries his urn during a state funeral for him at the Heroes Cemetery in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Aug. 9, 2022. [FOCAP POOL/Reuters/Lisa Marie David]

Members of an honor guard escort the casket with the ashes of former President Ramos, at the Heroes Cemetery in Taguig City, Philippines, Aug. 9, 2022. [FOCAP POOL/Reuters/Lisa Marie David]

A carriage pulls a coffin draped with the Philippine flag and carrying an urn with the ashes of former President Ramos through the Heroes Cemetery in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Aug. 9, 2022. [FOCAP POOL/Reuters/Lisa Marie David]

Military officials and relatives assist Amelita Ramos, the widow of former President Fidel V. Ramos, during a funeral procession for him at the Heroes Cemetery in Taguig City, Metro Manila, Aug. 9, 2022. [FOCAP POOL/Reuters/Lisa Marie David]

The Philippines laid former President Fidel V. Ramos to rest with full state honors on Tuesday, as Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the new commander-in-chief whose father Ramos helped remove from power decades ago, led the solemn ceremony.

The internment of Ramos ashes followed 10 days of national mourning after he died on July 31 of complications related to COVID-19, according to friends close to his family. Ramos was 94.

During the funeral at the Heroes Cemetery in Metro Manila, a battalion-sized military honor guard marched as they escorted the casket with the former presidents ashes. Troops also gave Ramos a 21-gun salute.

President Fidel V. Ramos left a legacy of leadership, excellence, and sterling public service to the entire Filipino nation. He shall always be remembered with high respect and admiration from his former colleagues, subordinates, and peers, the military said in a statement.

Back in 1986, Ramos played a key role in the downfall of Marcos father, longtime dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos.

As the chief of national police at the time, Ramos joined then-defense chief Juan Ponce Enrile as they broke ranks with Marcos Sr. and helped spur a largely peaceful people-power revolution that rose up and toppled the regime in February 1986.

Ramos, a Korean War veteran, went on to become commander of the Philippine military. He later served as the countrys 12th president, from 1992 to 1998.

On Tuesday, military officials and family members helped his widow, Amelita, walk during the funeral procession. His granddaughter lowered the urn containing his ashes into its final resting place.

Thank you to all of you for your help. You know, life in the military is hard. But we did it. President Ramos helped. He easily did it and he was able to raise five daughters, eight grandsons and five granddaughters, Amelita Ramos told the crowd at the funeral rites, which were broadcast live on state television.

From the Vatican, the head of the Catholic Church sent his condolences and prayers to the people of the Philippines, Asias only predominantly Catholic nation.

Mindful of the late presidents year of service to the nation and his efforts in fostering the values of democracy, peace and the rule of law, I commend his soul to the mercy of Almighty God, Pope Francis said, according to an online Catholic news agency.
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Tuesday warned that Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities will receive "more severe blows" if they continue banking on external forces to seek "Taiwan independence."

The recent visit to China's Taiwan region by Nancy Pelosi, speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, showed that it was the DPP authorities who made provocations, said Ma Xiaoguang, a spokesperson with the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office.

He made the comment in response to the recent remarks by Taiwan politician Joseph Wu claiming that the Chinese mainland tried to change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait by military means.

Ma said the DPP authorities have attempted to fulfill their political intents by betraying the interests of the Chinese nation and relying on external anti-China forces, especially by relying on the United States to seek "Taiwan independence."

While the mainland adopted a series of countermeasures, the DPP authorities, instead of reflecting on their own actions, distorted the facts to dress themselves up as "victims" and cover up their nature and behavior of seeking "Taiwan independence," said the spokesperson.

"The DPP's chicanery cannot deceive Taiwan people and the international community," he said. 
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TEHRAN, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Iranian negotiators in the nuclear talks have been ignoring "threats and empty deadlines" by the West in order to protect Iranian people's rights and the long-term interests of the country, an advisor to the Iranian team said Tuesday.

The Iranian negotiators have pressed hard on the Americans and European governments to back down from their irrational positions, both in the Vienna talks and its contacts with the other negotiating parties, Mohammad Marandi was quoted by the official news agency IRNA as saying, before leaving the Austrian capital where the talks were held.

The Iranian team aimed to gain "key concessions" from the other side, said Marandi, a professor at the University of Tehran.

Marandi declined to make any statement on the text of a possible deal on reviving the 2015 nuclear pact, which was offered by the European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, saying that "careful examination" will be held in Tehran.

Iran signed the nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to curb its nuclear program in return for the removal of sanctions on the country. However, former U.S. President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the agreement and reimposed unilateral sanctions on Tehran, prompting the latter to drop some of its commitments under the pact.

The talks on reviving the JCPOA began in April 2021 in Vienna but were suspended in March this year because of political differences between Tehran and Washington.

The latest round of talks, which began on Thursday following a five-month hiatus, ended on Monday without a breakthrough. 
Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Powerful explosions have rocked a Russian air base in Crimea, and authorities say at least one person was killed and several others wounded
DALTON  Greg and Lisa Rose have run their own small business for 33 years. Elizabeth Hellers small business is just getting started.

Their enterprises are in different places, but the needs are similar. They both need access to information about resources in the community to function efficiently.

The Roses and Heller were among the over 200 participants who attended Tuesdays first Berkshire Business Resource Expo, which took place at the Stationery Factory. The five-hour event, presented by five Berkshire-based business organizations, featured close to 60 exhibitors, and included three panel discussions on small business-related topics.

In addition to gathering information about available resources, the expo also allowed small-business owners to network and mingle, activities that have been rare since the COVID-19 pandemic had left many of them isolated.

It can be lonely being an entrepreneur, said Heller, a Pittsfield resident and a recent graduate of Entrepreneurship for All Berkshire County.

I can meet the community and let them know what Im doing, said Heller, who runs her own company  and recently self-published her own book. I can look around and see, Wow, theres all this help here,

The Roses operate Rennie & Rose of Dalton, which designs fabric for home decor products. Their customers include museums and boutiques.

We wanted to see what there was for help with technical assistance with websites and social media, that type of thing, Lisa Rose said.

Rennie & Rose, founded in 1989, has never had a physical location. The Roses, the firms only employees, sell most of their products directly to wholesalers, but also sell online.

You have to get out and see whats out there and and what other people are doing, she said. You dont know whats available until you go see.

The selling point behind Tuesdays event was attendees being able to access all the resources they need to both start or maintain their enterprises in one central location.

I think its a good idea, Greg Rose said, especially if youre looking for funding if youre just starting... . You get to meet all the banks and you get to meet the people who can bridge the gap for you.

Besides banks and credit unions, event exhibitors included two community development corporations, academic institutions, merchant organizations, and multiple chambers of commerce, including the Massachusetts LGBT Chamber.

Small business is such a core part of the economics of the Berkshires, said Dominica DAvella, the operations manager for Greylock Audiology of Pittsfield, who attended the event as a participant. I think our success as a county is heavily tied to whether our small businesses cannot only survive but thrive.

Like the Roses, DAvella also liked having the ability to access multiple resources in one location.

There are a lot of things in a small business that you dont normally have in house, whether thats accounting, legal or HR, she said. Those may be separate departments in a larger company, but in a small business you have to tend to all of it. So its critically important to be connected to the people around you and the people who are best at those other functions, so that you can take care of what you need to in your own business without devoting a disproportionate amount of time to things other than the core of what you do.
Business writer

Tony Dobrowolski's main focus is on business reporting. He came to The Eagle in 1992 after previously working for newspapers in Connecticut and Montreal. He can be reached at tdobrowolski@berkshireeagle.com or 413-496-6224.
How close do Secret Service bodyguards become to the presidents they are protecting? Many have wondered in the wake of discarded text messages from the Jan. 6, 2021, mob invasion of the U.S. Capitol.

Security agents can become at least casual friends, we learn from one local man who worked details for six chief executives from 1913 to 1953. He was Frank J. Murray, a North Adams native.

This story begins in 1950, when Puerto Rican nationalists on Nov. 1 charged the grounds of Blair House, temporary quarters for President Harry S. Truman and his family while renovations were being made on the White House. The attackers killed a White House police officer; a Secret Service agent killed one of the invaders.

A North Adams Transcript reporter found a local angle, noting Secret Service Agent Murray was from North Adams. None of the Murray families in the city claimed to be a relative, though.

The Transcript story appeared Nov. 6, and was noticed by Blanche (Mrs. James F.) Horn (d. 1951) of East Main Street, who advised the newspaper that Agent Murray was her brother and is one of President Trumans closest companions, and as such has travelled all over the country with the chief executive.

Murray was senior driver of the presidential automobile, and also responsible for determining travel routes and arranging for municipal and state police protection, and for hotel and other transportation reservations.

Quote The North Adams Transcript story appeared Nov. 6, 1950, and was noticed by Blanche Horn of East Main Street, who advised the newspaper that Agent Frank Murray was her brother and is one of President Trumans closest companions."

He had a challenging time in 1947 when Eleanor Roosevelt and son Elliott and children and 13-member entourage, returning from Campobello, New Brunswick, needed to overnight in Portland, Maine. Murray had to book them the Lafayette Hotel, as the previous years accommodation wouldnt let the dog Fala stay, according to a Boston Globe story.

Turns out Murrays name didnt show up in local records because he was born Francis J. Morand, son of carpenter Alphonse (1859-1952), a native of Canada, and Hedgwidge Agnes (Roy or King) (d. 1941) Morand. The father was still alive in 1950, living with Mrs. Horn. She explained in a follow-up Transcript story Nov. 7 that when she and Frank were young, they somehow decided to change their last name to Murray.

We were just kids and didnt realize the complications that might arise by taking on a new name just because it sounded good, Horn said. But they persevered. Other siblings kept the name Morand or, in one case, dropped the d.

Frank attended Notre Dame parochial school. He bell-hopped at the Berkshire Hotel and the Richmond Hotel. After a stint at Arnold Print Works, he moved to Bridgeport, Conn., to work for an auto parts manufacturer. From there he obtained a position in the White House garage, where he now is supervisor of vehicles maintenance as well as serving as senior driver and personal bodyguard of the President, according to the Transcript story. Murray, Horn said, was in no danger during the Blair House episode, having not been on call.

Murrays name came to wide attention in November 1948 when The Associated Press circulated a photo of him holding an umbrella over Truman as the two walked at the Washington National Airport to meet Secretary George C. Marshall, who was returning from a foreign mission.

Quote Frank Murrays name came to wide attention in November 1948 when The Associated Press circulated a photo of him holding an umbrella over President Harry S. Truman as the two walked at the Washington National Airport.

U.S. presidents didnt always have bodyguards. President Theodore Roosevelt (in office 1901-1909) established the agency, a unit of the Treasury Department. A short time after, Roosevelt was bruised, his liveryman injured, other riders scuffed up when his horse-drawn landau collided with a Berkshire Street Railway car racing from Pittsfield to Lenox to beat the D.C. entourage. Roosevelt had been visiting Gov. Winthrop Murray Crane in Dalton. Secret Service Officer William Craig was killed  the first of the new service to perish in the line of duty.

The first presidential limousines were a White steamer and Pierce-Arrow Brougham, both 1909 models, followed over the years by a 1912 Baker Electric, a 1916 Cadillac, a 1919 Pierce-Arrow and a 1921 Packard. Murray became official driver during President Woodrow Wilsons administration. He would have handled the 1928 and 1932 Cadillacs and later two 1938 Cadillac V-16s, nicknamed Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth by FDR. They cost $20,000 each. In 1939, a $30,000 Lincoln, Sunshine Special, joined the fleet followed by a 1942 Lincoln Custom.

Entering the garage in 1950 was a bullet- and bomb-proof Lincoln Cosmopolitan seven-passenger, 145-inch-wheelbase behemoth with a 12-cylinder engine. It had special running boards for guards as well as hydraulically operated windows and an intercom between the chauffeur and the passengers. It had a top speed of 100 mph. It was the first armored vehicle in the garage.

Frank Murray demonstrated some of the cars features to the press in March 1950.

I couldnt trace the agents later years through electronic resources. He and his wife lived in Alexandria, Va. They had no children. One likely Frank J. Murray I did find was 96 years old in 1984. Was he the one? It remains a secret.
Volodymyr Zhukovskyy, of West Springfield, center, charged with negligent homicide in the deaths of seven motorcycle club members in a 2019 crash, enters a courtroom at Coos County Superior Court, in Lancaster, N.H., in July. Zhukovskyy was found innocent on seven counts of manslaughter, seven counts of negligent homicide and one count of reckless conduct in connection with the crash.
Mourners carry the body of Palestinian teenager Mo'men Jaber during his funeral in the West Bank city of Hebron, on Aug. 9, 2022. Four Palestinians were killed on Tuesday during clashes with Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

RAMALLAH, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Four Palestinians were killed on Tuesday during clashes with Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said.

Among the victims were three from the northern West Bank city of Nablus and one from the southern city of Hebron.

The clashes in Nablus broke out when Israeli special forces stormed the city before dawn, hunting for wanted Palestinians over their suspected involvement in carrying out attacks against Israel.

The Israeli police said in a statement that Israeli forces encircled the home of Ibrahim al-Nabulsi, wanted by Israel for carrying out a series of shooting attacks in the West Bank this year, in the old city of Nablus.

In a separate statement, the Israeli military said its troops traded fire with "several terrorists" inside al-Nabulsi's home, killing three Palestinian gunmen, including al-Nabulsi.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society said the Israeli soldiers even opened fire at the Palestinian ambulances and prevented medical teams from entering the area to evacuate the victims.

In Hebron, 17-year-old Mo'men Jaber was shot in the chest and succumbed to his wounds during clashes with Israeli soldiers, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

Tension mounted across the West Bank following the clash in Nablus, with Hebron, Ramallah, Nablus, and Bethlehem all seeing fierce conflicts between Israeli soldiers and Palestinian youths, according to Palestinian eyewitnesses.

The youths burned tires, chanted anti-Israel slogans, and threw stones at the soldiers who fired teargas canisters, rubber bullets, and live ammunition to disperse them, said the witnesses.

The clashes come after a three-day conflict between the Palestinian Islamic Jihad and the Israeli army that ended on Sunday, which left 44 Palestinians killed and at least 360 injured. 

People mourn Palestinian teenager Mo'men Jaber during his funeral in the West Bank city of Hebron, on Aug. 9, 2022. Four Palestinians were killed on Tuesday during clashes with Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)

Mourners carry the body of Palestinian teenager Mo'men Jaber during his funeral in the West Bank city of Hebron, on Aug. 9, 2022. Four Palestinians were killed on Tuesday during clashes with Israeli soldiers in the West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said. (Photo by Mamoun Wazwaz/Xinhua)




First up, Joe Biden is thinking about dropping tariffs against China. But theres a spy in prison this morning that helps us understand why he shouldnt. Ill explain.





Your second brief, If youre looking for a good paying job, you might consider being a CEO for a health insurance company. One executive made $142M dollars last year. Let's talk about that.





And as always, Im keeping an eye out for developing stories. Put this one on your radar. Mexican cartels are grooming American kids online and paying them cash to traffic illegals or run drugs across the border. Ill share details.





If you enjoyed this episode of the President's Daily Brief, remember to subscribe and listen daily at podfollow.com/pdb.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
HempStreet aims to build solutions to help them in their fight against mass ailments

New Delhi-based startup HempStreet has partnered with Amrita School of Ayurveda. Through this collaboration, HempStreet aims to receive clinically supported solutions to aid in their fight against mass ailments.

HempStreets partnership with Amrita School of Ayurveda is one step further to meet the nation's needs of managing ailments through modern Ayurveda.



Abhishek Mohan, Founder & CEO, HempStreet, said, With this partnership, we strive to further our mission to harness the power of Ayurveda via cannabis-based medication with a layer of clinical validation. This fits our global strategy of best-in-class partnerships across Europe, the US and Israel.



Dr P Ram Manohar, Head, Centre for Advanced Research In Ayurveda (ACARA), said, "Our goal is to promote the expansion and advancement of Ayurvedic education, and working with HempStreet will help us close the knowledge gap between cutting-edge technological advancements and traditional medicine based on ancient wisdom."
CAIRO, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi and Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani discussed on Tuesday the latest regional developments, highlighting concerted Arab efforts to address regional challenges, the Egyptian presidency said in a statement.

In their phone conversation, the Qatari emir expressed appreciation for Egypt's latest success in mediating a cease-fire between Palestinians and Israelis in the Gaza Strip, calling it part of the country's efforts to strengthen regional peace and security, according to the statement.

He also expressed Qatar's keenness to build on current cooperation between the two countries to open new horizons.

For his part, Sisi stressed the close ties that bring together the two countries within the framework of Arab solidarity.

The two leaders also agreed to push forward the mechanisms of mutual consultation and coordination on all issues to safeguard security in the Arab world.

In the three-day Israeli airstrikes on Gaza that ended on Sunday in an Egypt-brokered truce, at least 44 Palestinians, including 15 children and four women, were killed, and more than 360 injured.

In June, the Qatari emir visited Egypt for the first time since Cairo and Doha ended their over three-year-long diplomatic rift early last year.

In January 2021, the Arab quartet of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain signed the Al-Ula Declaration with Qatar, ending their all-around boycott of Doha since mid-2017. 
For driving the antivenom development that will deliver efficient snakebite therapy to save lives

Bharat Serums and Vaccines (BSV) has collaborated with Evolutionary Venomics Lab, at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore to develop region-specific antivenoms, thereby, pioneering next-generation snakebite therapy in India.

Snakebite remains a serious public health challenge. Currently, treatments are based on a single polyvalent antivenom designed for snakebites from the big four snakes in the country. Recent research at the Evolutionary Venomics Lab has highlighted the alarming consequence of the inter and intra-species variation in venoms on the effectiveness of antivenom. The polyvalent antivenom inefficaciously neutralizes the venom from distinct populations of the big four snakes, as well many other local clinically important snake species. Thus, there is an urgent need for the development of region-specific antivenom in the country.



The partnership aims at driving the antivenom development that will deliver efficient snakebite therapy to save lives, limbs, and livelihoods of those in need of the treatment.



Sanjiv Navangul, MD and CEO, BSV said, We aim to partner with leading research institutes such as IISc to promote research in the neglected area of biodiscovery aspects of venom in India. Effective interventions involving education and antivenom provision would reduce snakebite deaths not only in India but also neighbouring countries in South Asia and Afghanistan.




Romeo and Juliet is being presented by the Cape Town City Ballet at Artscape until 28 August.

Image by Kim Stevens: Romeo and Juliet

My mother and her sisters studied ballet in Johannesburg under Faith de Villiers, one of the pioneers of South African ballet.

As a teenager, my aunt progressed through the ranks to the point where she was competing for attention with the late prima ballerina assoluta Phyllis Spira. My grandmother sewed costumes. My family moved to the Eastern Cape in the 70s and 80s, where we saw extracts of classical ballets when CAPAB Ballet was on tour  probably to recorded music and scant sets. My point? Ive never seen a local ballet production as spectacular as Cape Town City Ballets Romeo and Juliet.

I was reminded that in the 90s, when I was reviewing dance for the daily press in Durban, I became more familiar with Ashley Killars version of the ballet. To say that Veronica Paepers choreography is a treat is an understatement.

Image by Kim Stevens: Jan Kotze and Elvis Mcebisi

But it was the splendour of the set that impressed me first. Both costumes and set, lovingly restored for the companys Winter Season under Cazelets watchful eye, are out of this world. Widely acknowledged for his creativity, understanding and commitment in keeping with the true period and style of each ballet, he and Paeper took a bow during opening night curtain calls to tumultuous applause.

Unsurprisingly, my guest waxed lyrical about the lighting. Wilhelm Disbergen is an award-winning lighting designer, who is a veritable wizard when it comes to lighting works for artists locally and abroad.

Since Debbie Turner was appointed Cape Town City Ballet CEO in 2018, she has left no stone unturned in guiding the company towards an international standard. The transformation since I last saw them perform, before lockdown, is phenomenal.

Granted, the cast for this season includes company members, seasonal artists, guest artists and apprentices with international talent from England, Namibia, Brazil, Holland, but they have gelled as though they are a full company.

Image by Kim Stevens: Kirstel Paterson and Leusson Muniz

I imagine students studying Shakespeares play will fall in love with it after seeing this production. Its not just the action thats memorable, its the acting that makes the story more relatable. It makes the difference between good and great in ballet. And because Patrick Collings has been teaching fencing techniques for the fight scenes, I wouldnt be surprised if it sparks a sudden interest in the sport. The skill and focus with which the male cast members tackle these scenes is mesmerising.

As for Brazilian Leusson Muniz and Cape Town City Ballet principal Kirstel Paterson  where does one even start? Muniz has been working with the company since 2020, and the two paired up previously for Veronica Paepers Angel, but Patersons first season back after maternity leave was for Giselle in March this year. Muniz and Paterson have a magical connection that shines through every movement, every line, and every look.

Image by Kim Stevens: Romeo and Juliet

Muniz soars through the air when he leaps, landing surefootedly every time, matching Patersons poise and grace with aplomb. They are natural in their roles, which again says a lot for their acting ability. It makes their characters and therefore performances more believable, enabling the audience to relax and lose themselves in the emotion of the moment.

Quinton Jacobs (Namibia) as Tybalt, fiercely solidifying the feud between the Capulets and Montagues and Nicolas Laubscher (apprentice) as Mercutio, Romeos friend and confidant who links the comic and violent action of the play, were incredible in their roles too.

The programme notes that Sergei Prokofiev wrote the three-act ballet score in Russia in 1936 perfectly fitted to Shakespeares narrative finding the melodies: powerful, utterly romantic, heart-wrenchingly expressive, and orchestrating it brilliantly.

Image by Kim Stevens: Kirstel Paterson and Leusson Muniz

Jonathan Lo, the Hong Kong-born Briton hailed by Dance Europe as without doubt, the greatest ballet conductor we have in the UK will conduct the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO) at performances of Romeo and Juliet on 8, 9, 10 and 13 August at 7.30pm.

Meanwhile, acclaimed CPO resident conductor Brandon Phillips, who also conducted the German National Youth Orchestra at the Beethoven Festival in Bonn in 2019 and a world premiere by American percussionist Marcus Gilmore at the Rolex Arts Weekend in 2020, will conduct the performances on 23, 25 and 28 August.

Theatre patrons have a rare opportunity to see Siphe November, the principal artist of the National Ballet of Canada, as Romeo opposite Chante Daniels as Juliet only on 25 August.

This season also features principal guest artists Fumi Kaneko (Japan) and Vadim Muntagirov (Russia) from The Royal Ballet and Brandon Lawrence (Britain) from Birmingham Royal Ballet in the starring roles.

Tickets are available here.
As stories break regularly about fraudulent use of COVID relief money, a new report has found yet another extensive case of poorly spent funds related to tackling the virus.

As students were returning to in-person classes in August 2020, multiple technology companies claimed that they had developed thermal imaging cameras and scanners that could screen students for COVID-related fevers in real time. The Daily Beast reports that over 200 school districts nationwide were persuaded to buy these devices between 2020 and 2021. Schools soon found out the technology never worked.

The scanners use infrared sensors to analyze the heat radiating from a persons skin  a proxy for measuring core body temperature. Some systems have been advertised as being able to assess multiple people in a crowd at once. But assessing body temperature alone has been proven to be a highly flawed measure for determining whether someone has COVID. In 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that approximately 40 percent of infected people wont have a fever at all.

From 2020 to 2021, Congress passed three COVID relief packages totaling $190 billion in aid for the education system. However, schools had little guidance on how to effectively use the money. In that vacuum, countless companies  of varying levels of reputability  arose, promising to ease the worries of parents, administrators, and students.

Districts were really in the dark about what to do, Marguerite Roza, director of the Edunomics Lab research center at Georgetown University, told the Daily Beast. They were just on the phone, trying to buy buy buy.

Results from the scanners were all over the board. Its like a random number generator, said Conor Healy, a surveillance expert at research organization IPVM. Schools began questioning the validity of the scanners as false positives proliferated during the warmer months. And a recent study of the scanners found that the software used in many of the devices often can make a feverish person appear healthy.

As early as March 2021, researchers were questioning the efficacy of these devices. IPVM warned that the scanners were dangerously ineffective, raising the risk that infected people could be passed through screening checkpoints and unknowingly spread the virus.

The Food and Drug Administration went as far as issuing a public alert warning that improper use of the devices could present potentially serious public health risks.

Theres a real problem of accountability here on every level, said Healy.
Moments ago, Donald Trump  who is still banned by Twitter  published a statement on Truth Social in which he said that his Florida home, Mar A Lago is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, an assault which according to Trump could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries. He is probably right. He also claims the Feds presence was unannounced and the reason was politically motivated.

His full statement posted on his Truth Social account is below:

Statement by Donald J. Trump, 45th President of the United States of America These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before. After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate. It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024, especially based on recent polls, and who will likewise do anything to stop Republicans and Conservatives in the upcoming Midterm Elections. Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries. Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before. They even broke into my safe! What is the difference between this and Watergate, where operatives broke into the Democrat National Committee? Here, in reverse, Democrats broke into the home of the 45th President of the United States. The political persecution of President Donald J. Trump has been going on for years, with the now fully debunked Russia, Russia, Russia Scam, Impeachment Hoax #1, Impeachment Hoax #2, and so much more, it just never ends. It is political targeting at the highest level! Hillary Clinton was allowed to delete and acid wash 33,000 E-mails AFTER they were subpoenaed by Congress. Absolutely nothing has happened to hold her accountable. She even took antique furniture, and other items from the White House. I stood up to Americas bureaucratic corruption, I restored power to the people, and truly delivered for our Country, like we have never seen before. The establishment hated it. Now, as they watch my endorsed candidates win big victories, and see my dominance in all polls, they are trying to stop me, and the Republican Party, once more. The lawlessness, political persecution, and Witch Hunt must be exposed and stopped. I will continue to fight for the Great American People!

Local reporters confirmed the raid, saying the FBI executed a search warrant at Mar-a-Lago. They just left, although it isnt clear what the search was about.

Scoop  The Federal Bureau of Investigation @FBI today executed a search warrant at Mar-a-Lago, two sources confirm to @Fla_Pol. "They just left," one source said. Not sure what the search warrant was about. TBH, Im not a strong enough reporter to hunt this down, but its real. pic.twitter.com/hMsGhlVp3d  Peter Schorsch (@PeterSchorschFL) August 8, 2022

Social media was predictably full of kneejerk reactions.

The raid of MAL is another escalation in the weaponization of federal agencies against the Regimes political opponents, while people like Hunter Biden get treated with kid gloves. Now the Regime is getting another 87k IRS agents to wield against its adversaries? Banana Republic.  Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantisFL) August 9, 2022

Attorney General Garland: preserve your documents and clear your calendar. pic.twitter.com/dStAjnwbAT  Kevin McCarthy (@GOPLeader) August 9, 2022

BREAKING: @dbongino goes off on the FBI Raid on Donald Trump: This is some Third World BULLSH*T pic.twitter.com/2e9jryfVOi  Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) August 8, 2022

BREAKING: The U.S. government is currently raiding an opposition party leader's home, as seen in tin pot dictatorships. If this were happening in another country, the State Department would condemn it and fund the opposition. https://t.co/CKp7P9yRsz  Raheem J. Kassam  (@RaheemKassam) August 8, 2022

Trump said the FBI is *raiding* Mar-a-Lago, not *raising* it.   Tim O'Brien (@TimOBrien) August 8, 2022

This is disgraceful and it happens because Republicans refuse to weaponize their prosecutors as Dems do. Chris Wray is a Democrat operative. https://t.co/RK2Ld2Ahel  John Cardillo (@johncardillo) August 8, 2022

We live under a morally repugnant Gestapo regime. Our Founders would puke. This is NOT America.  Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) August 8, 2022

So youre saying were a Banana Republic??? https://t.co/iJFdRavEjt  Kuppy (@hkuppy) August 8, 2022

Trump supporters have begun gathering outside Mar-a-Lago.

#BREAKING: Trump supporters gather outside Mar-A-Lago protesting the FBI raid #PalmBeach | #Florida Right now Multiple trump supporters have started to gather as large crowds grow near Mar-A-Lago Florida after the 45th president Donald trump was raided by FBI this evening pic.twitter.com/WHgWZFjsfr  R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) August 9, 2022

According to the New York Times:

The search, according to two people familiar with the investigation, appeared to be focused on material that Mr. Trump had brought with him to Mar-a-Lago, his private club and residence, after he left the White House. Those boxes contained many pages of classified documents, according to a person familiar with their contents. Mr. Trump delayed returning 15 boxes of material requested by officials with the National Archives for many months, only doing so when there became a threat of action being taken to retrieve them.

As Techno Fog notes, the politics of the search cant be ignored. If the New York Times is to be believed, Trumps purported crime  the delay of returning materials  could have been resolved in another manner not involving raiding his home and breaking open a personal safe. No doubt the search is an escalation by a desperate Regime confronted by their own failures at home and abroad.

This doesnt necessarily mean there wasnt another reason for the search. Could it have to do with the DOJs ongoing January 6 probe (although, given the politicization of Bidens DOJ, that is no guarantee)? Maybe not, but it might be too soon to tell. Last week there was reporting that a federal grand jury investigating January 6 had issued subpoenas to the Trump White House Counsel, Pat Cipollone, and his top deputy, Patrick Philbin.

According to the author, it is possible that the roadmap for the DOJ comes from the January 6 Committee, which has poured out the thin gruel of purported criminal charges against Trump, alleging he and others, including attorney John Eastman, could be charged with:

Obstruction of an Official Proceeding (18 USC 1512(c)(2)); and Conspiracy to Defraud the United States (18 USC 371).

Each of these counts, as well as the DOJs pursuit of Trump and his attorneys and advisors, amounts to the criminalization of politics, or as Technofog puts it, arguments of law that might fail in the courts are now prosecutable offenses. Attempts to delay a vote count based on novel, and not corrupt, interpretations of the law can put you in prison. Issues surrounding the counting of state results or whether the Vice President can refuse to count electoral votes is a matter to be decided through the civil or political process, not through charges brought by vindictive opponents.

Meanwhile, we are still waiting for an official comment:
As TN has warned for 12 years now that the United Nations is gunning for total control of the Internet, seeking to morph it into a digital brain that can control every thing and every one on the earth. The aim is total social control and behavior modification to suit Sustainable Development, aka Technocracy.  TN Editor

The seventh commitment in Our Common Agenda is about improving digital collaboration through the creation of a Global Digital Compact.[1] This means that all people should be connected to the Internet, that liability criteria for discrimination and misleading content should be developed, that artificial intelligence should be regulated, and the establishment of the Digital Commons as a global public good. However, the whole thing is more comprehensive than that. By extension, this constitutes the construction of a digital World Brain intended to regulate and control all human life to keep it within the planetary boundaries.

The commitment is one of the more central ones and is about creating a consensus on the need for total digitization. This builds on the recommendations made in the report The Age of Digital Interdependence (2019) by the UN High Level Panel on Digital Cooperation led by Melinda Gates (Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation) and Jack Ma from the Ali Baba Group and in collaboration with actors such as the World Economic Forum and their Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.[2]

At the Summit for the Future in 2023, the UN, together with civil society and the private sector, are expected to agree on shared principles for an open, free and secure digital future for all.

This includes promoting a trustworthy Internet with accountability criteria for discrimination and misleading content as well as regulating Artificial Intelligence to be consistent with our shared global values. However, what this means in practice is that the values must correlate with the beliefs held sacred by the UN and WEF (see The Ministry of Truth).

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres writes in Our Common Agenda that one of the risks of the Fourth Industrial Revolution is the use of digital surveillance and manipulation to influence behavior and control populations.

This very legitimate concern, however, is more about the fact that the UN does not want this technology to fall into the hands of forces that they themselves or their partners do not control. This is because the whole idea behind the Global Digital Compact is to be able to control the worlds population and align its values to be in line with the UNs and WEFs interpretations of the 17 Global Goals of Agenda 2030.

A concrete example is the initiative Coalition for Digital Environmental Sustainability (CODES), which was formed after the launching of the UN Roadmap for Digital Cooperation in March 2021 with the aim of promoting digital sustainability.[3] The coalition currently gathers around 1,000 stakeholders from over 100 countries.[4]

Founders of CODES are UNEP, UNDP, International Science Council, The German Environment Agency, Kenyan Ministry of Environment, Sustainability in the Digital Age and Future Earth. The latter organisation has a key role in the agenda and are part of the Global Commons Alliance initiative, which I will return to in the last installment of this series  Be Prepared.

CODES works to implement collective system changes and remove any obstacles standing in the way of the total digitization that they believe is needed to implement the sustainability goals (70% of the goals can be achieved through the application of digital solutions according to a study that CODES refers to).

During the environmental conference Stockholm +50 in June 2022, CODES presented its action plan which aims to inform about the priorities included in the Global Digital Compact. The report describes three system shifts, eighteen strategic priorities and nine global impact initiatives that will give rise to the desired change.[5]

These systems shifts are:

Enable Alignment  Align Values Visions Objectives Mitigate Negative Impacts  Sustainable Digitalization Accelerate Innovation  Digitalization for Sustainability

In order to achieve the goals, the establishment of a World Commission on Sustainability in the Digital Age is proposed with the aim of conducting research and offering scientifically oriented information on how sustainability should be achieved in the digital era. Their conclusions, in turn, will form the basis for a global platform (Clearing House for Digital Sustainability Standards) that develops digital and financial sustainability standards. This knowledge is then to be disseminated through decentralized education programs.

In order to deal with the negative environmental and social effects from energy use, greenhouse gases, material use, consumption, digital divides, violations, and incorrect information, it is proposed, among other things, that platforms for reporting and comparing companies greenhouse gas emissions and that digital product passports be introduced with the aim of being able to follow a product entire life cycle. The latter is part of the circular economy and will eventually also be used on us humans. It is a new ecosystem in the making where everything is to be connected in order to measure degree of sustainability. A World Brain that analyzes and keeps track of everything and everyone.

Among the examples of how problems with incorrect information should be handled, Facebooks Climate Science Center is highlighted. The climate issue is the cornerstone of the agenda. As of the Paris Agreement 2015, the science is considered to be settled and no more debate or nuance in this field is to be tolerated.

The spread of misinformation about planetary sustainability topics such as climate change, biodiversity loss or pollution can undermine collective action and trust in institutions as well as magnify polarization and mistrust between divided groups.[6]

Instead, incorrect information on the web must be corrected and visitors instead provided with the United Nations verified climate information.

The third area concerns the development of digital innovations that promote environmental and social sustainability. This includes digital twins and the construction of a digital copy of the Earth that will be used to monitor and predict the interaction between natural phenomena and human activities. A kind of digital crystal ball.

Digital twins combined with AI have the capability to conduct automated monitoring of risks and threats to key protected areas (either natural or cultural areas under global protection frameworks), ecosystem services or endangered species..[7]

The EU project Destination Earth, which is linked to the EUs Green Deal and Digital Strategy, aims to develop a full digital replica of the Earth by 2030.[8]

DestinE will unlock the potential of digital modeling of the Earth system. It will initially focus on the effects of climate change, water and marine environments, polar areas, cryosphere, biodiversity or extreme weather events, together with possible adaptation and mitigation strategies.

This is very similar to the geocybernetic visions that papal adviser and former head of the Potsdam Institute of Climate Research (PIK), Hans Joachim Schellnhuber proposed in the late 1990s.[9]

There are currently 267 initiatives linked to CODES that are working on implementation.

One of the initiatives included in CODES is The Green Digital Finance Alliances and the Finance for Biodiversity Initiatives (F4B) project Every Action Counts Coalition.

Digital tools can empower consumers to make and demand sustainable consumption choices and receive feedback on their behaviours.[10]

On the website, they write that two-thirds of carbon dioxide emissions are linked to human consumption and that they will creatively leverage technology and partnerships to increase green awareness and green actions among 1 billion green digital champions worldwide by the year 2025. The citizens, who according to The Green Digital Finance Alliance want immediate change, should be encouraged to make climate-smart choices through a rating system. Every purchase is registered and assessed according to the climate benefit.[11] In this way, the necessary behavioral changes will be achieved.

One exemple is Swedish Doconomy:

financial services providers such as GDFA member Mastercard in collaboration with the Swedish fintech financial technology company Doconomy are enabling their users to buy lower carbon products by providing shoppers with a personalized carbon footprint tracker and insights to help inform their spending decisions.[12]

The Green Digital Finance Alliances founders are UNEP and the ANT Group which developed the Chinese social credit system. The latter is represented on the executive board by Jason Pau, chairman of the Jack Ma Foundation, while ANT Group CEO Eric Jing sits on the advisory board.[13] Besides being a board member of WEFs Young Global Leaders, Jing is also part of the United Nations Task Force on Digital Financing of the Sustainable Development Goals.[14] (See my articles Digital Identification and World Economic Forums Young Global Leaders.)

The Finance for Biodiversity Initiative is in turn founded and financed by the Swiss MAVA Foundation under the leadership of the pharmaceutical giant Roches vice-chairman Andre Hoffman, board member of the World Economic Forum and member of their Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.[15] As a senior adviser to the elite British think tank Royal Institute of International Affairs, he is as close to global power as it gets.[17] As usual, WEFs spirit and solutions are closely intertwined with the UN agenda.

The billionaire Hoffman, who increased the family fortune by 38 billion dollars during the pandemic, describes himself as an environmentalist and was in the years 2007-2017 WWFs vice chairman. He is also a member of the Club of Rome, board member of the Global Footprint Network (which calculates when Earth Overshoot Day occurs) and received this years David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Award from Davids daughter Peggy Dulany for his leadership in sustainable business and climate change[16] In the acceptance speech, where he talks about the need of a new accountability system, he ends with a story that reveals an old elitist view about humanity:

Planet Earth goes on holiday, planet Earth has had enough, planet Earth travels out in the Cosmos. It crosses another planet. The other planet says: Hey how are you? And the planet Earth replies: Ive got a bad case of Homo Sapiens. (Andre Hoffman)

The Finance for Biodiversity Initiative also includes the organization Bankers Without Boundaries, whose name in an almost comical way describes what this is all about. Financial parasites and predators who respect no borders and who use ordinary peoples concern for the environment and health and a feigned concern for human rights, women, and minority groups as leverage to impose their technocratic dictatorship.[18]

We can also be absolutely sure that the bankers and billionaires will not be included in any social credit system where their own climate footprint is analyzed and punished for exceeding the planetary limits. It would, of course, be devastating to their privileged lifestyle if they were to be held accountable for their own actions. Instead, they give each other awards for their humanitarian feats and environmental efforts while playing and acting as gods to keep the polluting mob at bay. In this context, an old Bible quote fits:

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheeps. clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Sources

[1] United Nations, Global Digital Compact, www.un.org/techenvoy/global-digital-compact

[2] United Nations (2020), High-level Panel on Digital Cooperation, www.un.org/en/sg-digital-cooperation-panel

[3] Coalition for Digital Environmental Sustainability (CODES). (2022). Action Plan for a Sustainable Planet in the Digital Age. doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6573509

[4] UNEP (2022). Global Digital Coalition presents plan for a green digital revolution, Press Release 2 June 2022, www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/global-digital-coalition-presents-plan-green-digital-revolution

[5] CODES (2022)

[6] CODES (2022). Action Plan for a Sustainable Planet in the Digital Age, p. 22

[7] Ibid, sid 25

[8] European Commission, Shaping Europes digital future, Destination Earth, digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/destination-earth

[9] Schellnhuber, HJ., Kropp, J. Geocybernetics: Controlling a Complex Dynamical System Under Uncertainty. Naturwissenschaften 85, 411425 (1998). doi.org/10.1007/s001140050525

[10] CODES, Action Plan for a Sustainable Planet in the Digital Age, sid 26

[11] The Green Digital Finance Alliance, Every Action Counts: Coalition to Empower 1 Billion Green Digital Champions, https://greendigitalfinancealliance.org/initiatives-publications/eac-coalition

[12] Coalition for Digital Environmental Sustainability (CODES). (2022). Action Plan for a Sustainable Planet in the Digital Age: Supplement 1. Accelerating Sustainability Through Digital Transformation  Use Cases and Innovations

[13] The Green Digital Finance, greendigitalfinancealliance.org

[14] The United Nations Secretary Generals Task Force on Digital Financing of the Sustainable Development Goals, Task Force Members, digitalfinancingtaskforce.org/task-force-members

[15] MAVA Foundation, Board, mava-foundation.org/board

[16] Chatham House, About Us, Andre Hoffman, www.chathamhouse.org/about-us/our-people/andre-hoffmann

[16] Synergos (2022), The David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Award, experience.synergos.org/global-gathering-2022/bridging-leadership-award

[17] F4B Initiative, Partners, www.f4b-initiative.net/partners

Read full story here
According to a new report from The Federalist , Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheneys husband is a partner at the same law firm representing scandal-ridden Hunter Biden.

This news about Cheneys husband, Philip Perry, first broke last week when the Daily Mail reached out to Hunter Bidens attorney for comment on a story. The outlet later received a response from an attorney named Christopher Clark.

Perhaps the most surprising thing about this was Hunters lawyers response when I asked him for comment: pic.twitter.com/BSTsoukXOs  Josh Boswell (@JoshTBoswell) August 5, 2022

As you can see in the tweet thread above, Clark called reporter Josh Boswell a parasite in his email response. Then the partner at the firm Latham & Watkins accused Boswell of living off other peoples difficulties.

Notably, this is the same law firm Perry is a partner at per the company website.

Liz Cheney has been routinely accused of being a RINO Republican at best, and a secret Democrat at worst. She is notably running for re-election on an anti-Trump platform and very rarely sides with Republicans on key issues.

Discovering that her husband Perry is a partner at the firm supporting Hunter Biden adds more evidence to these claims against Liz Cheney. And Americans are quickly beginning to notice that her words do not line up with her actions  nor are they in line with the direction the party is currently going.

CNN goes to Wyoming to ask voters if they're gonna vote for #LizCheney Hilarity ensues.     pic.twitter.com/vycOAhA1dd  Joe Dan Gorman #UltraMAGA 1776 (@ThatJoeDanGuy) July 30, 2022

To salvage her out-of-control campaign efforts, Cheney even called on her father, Dick Cheney, the man that started two wars and shot a man in the face, to add fuel to her never-Trump platform.

This is what the New York Times had to say about Cheneys failing campaign:

She no longer provides advance notice about her Wyoming travel and, not welcome at most county and state Republican events, has turned her campaign into a series of invite-only House parties, the Times reported.

Whats more puzzling than her schedule is why Ms. Cheney, who has raised over $13 million, has not poured more money into the race, especially early on when she had an opportunity to define Ms. Hageman, the outlet added.

Ms. Cheney had spent roughly half her war chest as of the start of July, spurring speculation that she was saving money for future efforts against Mr. Trump, it continued.

As The Federalist reported, Cheney will likely to lose her seat in the next Congress, so she has been laying the foundation for a 2024 presidential run. Probably against Trump.

If I have to choose between maintaining a seat in the House of Representatives or protecting the constitutional republic and ensuring the American people know the truth about Donald Trump, Im going to choose the Constitution and the truth every single day, Cheney said on CNN last month.

Support Big League Politics by making a donation today. You can also donate via PayPal, Venmo or donate crypto. Your support helps us take on the powerful and report the truth that the mainstream media wants to silence.
The Russian Defense Ministry has reacted to reports of explosions near the town of Novofedorovka in Crimea, saying that a detonation of several rounds of air-launched ammunition had taken place at the Saki airfield located not far from the town. The detonated ammunition was stored at the airfield's bunded storage area, the ministry said, adding that the ensuing blasts did not result in casualties or damage to aircrafts. The resulting fire is in the process of being put out, the Defense Ministry elaborated. The ammo's detonation did not happen due to shelling or an airstrike on the airport, the ministry underscored.

Another video of the explosion in the area of military airport in Novofedorivka, Saky region on the territory of occupied Crimea. pic.twitter.com/YrfnQ9r4Tg  Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) August 9, 2022

Huge explosion at the military airport in Novofedorivka in Russian-occupied Crimea. About 200km (over 120 miles) from the frontline.pic.twitter.com/8POh6yNhmq  Ostap Yarysh (@OstapYarysh) August 9, 2022

Casualties are being reported, after initial Russian media reports there were no known casualties in the immediate aftermath of the explosion:

HEAD OF CRIMEA HEALTH DEPARTMENT: FIVE PEOPLE INCLUDING ONE CHILD INJURED BY BLAST IN CRIMEA - TASS

* * *

A massive explosion erupted Tuesday deep inside Crimea at Russia's Saky Airbase in Novofedorivka, which lies some 200km from front line fighting in Ukraine, immediately giving rise to speculation that this could have been a Ukrainian long-range missile strike.

Few details are confirmed thus far, only that a multiple-stories high fireball and smoke was filmed from many angles engulfing the Russian military airbase.

Large explosion following reported strike at Russias Saky Airbase in Crimea. pic.twitter.com/PXJl02u3OF  Moshe Schwartz (@YWNReporter) August 9, 2022

Local social media reports cited eyewitness accounts which said ambulances and emergency crews are speeding toward the site of the large explosion.

Nearby beachgoers in Crimea looked on stunned, given the ongoing Ukraine war has never before reached the environs of the territory which Russia controversially formally took over in 2014 following the so-called "Crimea crisis" and referendum.

Another view of the large explosion in Novofedorovka in Russian-occupied #Crimea pic.twitter.com/GmDdj3aoin  Michael A. Horowitz (@michaelh992) August 9, 2022

Some Ukraine war commentators were quick to speculate that given the site of the explosion apparently by unknown munitions is some 200km away from front lines, this means...

either Russia had an accident or Ukraine has some long range rockets.

And another angle of the explosion pic.twitter.com/w4SdrFTqiM  Michael A. Horowitz (@michaelh992) August 9, 2022

An initial Russian defense ministry statement cited no casualties...

RUSSIA'S DEFENCE MINISTRY: NO CASUALTIES AFTER BLAST AT RUSSIAN MILITARY AIRBASE AT NOVOFEDORIVKA, CRIMEA - RIA

The airbase lies deep within the Crimean peninsula.
New biometrics identity credentials have been proposed or launched around the world as government digital identity schemes continue to roll out.

Previously we wrote about the program Mastercard launched for retailers to use biometric payment methods, like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. As of May, the program had already gone live in five grocery stores in Sao Paulo, Brazil, with more trials planned for Asia and the Middle East. Mastercard said it planned to roll it out globally later this year.

But its not only private companies dictating we use the technology theyll use to track, trace and control us. From Australia to the Maldives to Uganda, governments are rolling out the WEF / UN digital IDs to usher in a global digitised police state. A state which will police every aspect of our lives.Australia to actively explore a national digital ID system

Australias digital and data ministers from the federal government (Commonwealth), and six states and territories agreed to actively explore a national digital identification system.

Over the past six years, the federal government has spent about $450 million on a digital identification system, but has been delayed by a lack of legislation to expand the system into territories, states, and the private sector.

Read more: Reclaim the Net, 4 April 2022

Australias Trusted Digital Identity Bill

While Australia lacks the corresponding technological infrastructure to utilise a Digital Identity to its sinister potential (such as Chinas spying street lights and billboards), this Bill  whether intentional or accidental  acts as the foundation for a China-style Social Credit System, wrote Senator Malcolm Roberts.

In February, Senator Roberts warned Australians about the Trusted Digital Identity Bill in a short video. The so-called trusted digital identity bill represents a watershed moment in Australian history we stand at the divide between a free personal enterprise future and a digital surveillance age, he said.

Malcolm Roberts: Trusted Digital Identity Bill locks in Covid controls, 1 February 2022 (2 mins)

In a speech in Parliament last month, Senator Roberts said:

Instead of working together to push Klaus Schwabs World Economic Forum plan based on United Nations policies, work together instead for our country. Klaus Schwabs life by subscription, quote, is really serfdom. Its slavery. Billionaire globalist corporations will own everything, homes, factories, farms, cars, furniture, and everyday citizens will rent what they need if their social credit score allows. The plan of the Great Reset is that you will die with nothing. To pull off this evil plan, Klaus Schwabs World Economic Forum will need to take more than just material possessions from Australians. Senators in this very chamber today who support the Great Reset threaten our privacy, freedom, and dignity. Yes, theyre in this senate chamber. One Nation vehemently opposes the Great Reset, the Digital Identity Bill, theft of agricultural land use forcing farmers off their land, and all of the Great Reset. One Nation Has a Plan For A Better Australia, Speech in the Australian Parliament, 27 July 2022

Australia explores digital ID options

This week, The Australian Financial Review published an analysis report of the financial review summit for the Government Services ministry, which oversees Services Australia, Medicare, the National Disability Insurance Agency, and Centrelink (social security).

You can read the report HERE.

Read more: Reclaim the Net, 6 August 2022

Canada, US officials see opportunity for digital ID after pandemic

Government officials in Canada and the United States gave their prognosis for how the Covid pandemic altered the direction of digital ID. Canadas Treasury Board president says the pandemic was an accelerant for broader acceptance of digital ID.

A US congressman, Bill Foster, proposed legislation to promote verified digital ID as a means of clamping down on pandemic-related fraud garnered interest at a congressional hearing on the issue.

After trillions of dollars in pandemic-related aid was dispersed across the U.S., there was also an accompanying rise in the level of fraud. Javelin Strategy & Research found a leap in fraud during the pandemic, totalling $56 billion in 2020 and $52 billion in 2021. Some cases involved biometrics, like spoofs and 2D and 3D masks to bypass facial recognition and liveness checks.

The bill is not Fosters first attempt at legislating national digital identity.

Read more: Biometric Update, 16 June 2022

Dutch bank CEO proposes turning carbon usage into a tokenized commodity

Barbara Baarsma, CEO of a Netherlands-based bank, created a stir on social media after openly advocating for a communist-style carbon credit system that would tax people for using their freedom of movement rights.

Her carbon credit proposal is a significant advance towards implementing social credit systems that align with the notorious sustainable development goals laid out by the United Nations in its Agenda 2030 sustainable development goals (SDGs).

The Agenda 2030 SDGs are what is behind the push to bar farmers from utilizing nitrogen fertilizers and serve as the root of the conflict between Dutch farmers and the government.

Read more: Vision Times, 6 August 2022

Political commentator Eva Vlaardingerbroek spoke to GB News on 3 August about the Dutch banking CEO suggesting carbon wallets should be introduced to regulate citizens carbon footprints.

Click on the image below to watch the video on Rumble.

Greece Rolling Out Digital Identification Program (4 mins)

European Union digital identity system is Orwellian

The European Union (EU) is moving quickly to adopt a transnational digital identity system. However, the EU proposal came under attack in the European Parliament several months ago for running the risk of replicating Communist Chinas social credit system.

European Parliament Member Cristian Terhes said the move was equivalent to the Chinafication of Europe where the government acts as the all-encompassing Big Brother who sees everyone, everything, everywhere.

Meanwhile, the EU says that unlike Chinas social credit system, its digital identity platform will only be voluntary.

But sceptics have cast doubts particularly following the implementation of the Covid-19 passport, which sparked violent protests across Europe. The passport had initially been lobbied as a voluntary and temporary solution to enable safe cross-border travel amid the pandemic. Now, it is a mandatory tool that EU officials are mulling to extend further.

Read more: Nation First, 5 August 2022

Members of the European Parliament Rob Roos and Rob Rooken explained how the so-called EU Digital Identity Wallet works.

This is what governments and big corporations will do: they will ask for more information than they are currently allowed to. This hollows out our privacy and makes citizens powerless against the government and big corporations.

The EU Digital Identity Wallet is a Trojan Horse, 24 April 2022 (2 mins)

If the video above is removed from YouTube you can watch it on Rumble HERE.

The French are fed up with Macrons Covid tyranny

Despite obvious resistance, within days of Emmanuel Macrons re-election, France began progressing with the fourth dose of Covid injections for everyone and introduced a digital identity assurance app.

Signed into law on 26 April by decree, the Digital Identity Guarantee Service (SGIN) is in keeping with a broader trend in the European Union, where more and more countries have started introducing support for some form of digital ID. Luxembourg launched its own mobile ID app in April, while Frances own bill was passed in an effort to comply with the European Commissions latest Digital Identity guidelines.

Read more: The Expose, 1 May 2022 and Mobil ID World, 3 May 2022

French president Emmanuel Macron has suffered his first parliamentary defeat of the new term. A bill intended to reinforce Covid restrictions ahead of the autumn was rejected by the three main opposition parties.

Macron was re-elected as president back in April. But just months later in Junes parliamentary elections, he failed to secure a majority. Following this humiliation, Elisabeth Borne, Macrons prime minister, tried to hand in her resignation. But Macron refused to let her go.

We can expect Macron to use all tools at his disposal to bypass democracy. But make no mistake, this defeat is a major setback.

The defeated bill proposed reinstating certain Covid restrictions, particularly at the French border. Its main aim was to reintroduce the deeply unpopular health pass (or vaccine passport) for travellers entering the country. Earlier in the pandemic, a health pass was required to enter cafes and public spaces.

Read more: Spiked Online, 15 July 2022

Greece rolls out digital wallet for citizens; ID and driving license now on phone

Greece has rolled out a digital wallet application for its citizens, bringing user experience and services in sync with contemporary life, allowing people to carry their ID and driving license on their mobile phone among others.

The new application Gov.gr Wallet providing a virtual wallet on mobile phones was rolling out as of 27 July 2022.

Read more: Greek City times, 28 July 2022

The UK Cinema Association will start accepting the digital ID app from 30 May

Cinemas in the UK will be introducing new digital ID cards for proof of age into adult rated films.

The UK Cinema Association will start accepting digital ID app confirming the cinema goers age.

Read / Watch more: GB News, 30 May 2022

Vietnam, Kenya, Philippines expanding digital ID uses in different sectors

In October 2021, the high court in Kenya declared illegal the rollout of a biometric ID scheme also known as Huduma Namba.

In the judicial review application, Katiba Institute (the applicant) submitted that the respondents did not conduct a data protection impact assessment (DPIA) which was in violation of the KDPA and Order III of the 2020 petition. The court upheld the applicants arguments and ordered for a DPIA to be conducted before any further steps to issue Huduma Cards are undertaken.

The relevant ministry has now complied and conducted a DIPA pointing to an acknowledgment of the importance of accountability with regards to sensitive citizen data. As of February 2022, the assessment was not yet public. As the DPIA was the sole requirement to proceed with issuing the Huduma Card, it was expected that the rollout will continue, unless further challenges are successfully made, Future Privacy Forum wrote in February 2022.

Read more: 3 News, 14 October 2021 and Future of Privacy Forum, 8 February 2022

The government of Vietnam has highlighted the importance of its population data resource as a tool for creating a digital identity ecosystem where citizens can have access to a variety of public services.

Kenya has announced plans to soon make the controversial Huduma Namba digital ID card a requirement for all digital financial transactions, and in the Philippines, public and private entities are being encouraged to accept the PhilID card as the single source of truth for peoples identity as well as a tool for financial inclusion.

Many elderly citizens in Uganda will soon be able to claim national ID cards as a special campaign has been rolled out by the government to allow them benefit from a social welfare scheme.

Meanwhile, in the Maldives, a biometric national ID system will soon be in place, according to a government announcement.

Read more: Biometric Update, 1 March 2022

World Economic Forum dystopia

The CovidPass was the brainchild of one of the World Economic Forums (WEFs) Young Global Leaders (YGL), Mustapha Mokass. It also involved other YGLs across 5 continents, including Muna AbuSulayman and Peggy Liu. CovidPass uses blockchain technology to store encrypted data from individual blood tests.

World Economic Forum: This app could help revive global travel and large events during the pandemic, 30 July 2020 (2 mins)

Read more: Could this COVID-19 health passport be the future of travel and events? World Economic Forum, 30 July 2020

By August 2020, it was being called the CommonPass.

World Economic Forum: This digital solution could restart global travel and trade, 24 August 2020 (4 mins)

In the top left-hand corner of the WEF videos is an Uplink logo. Uplink is the innovation platform of WEF. On WEFs YouTube channel there are 65 Uplink videos HERE which include topics such as: digital IDs on clothing; innovations to fight Covid; Costa Ricas carbon tax; 5 ecopreneurs on fighting climate change; and, how carbon markets can help the world reach net zero.

By May 2021 the CommonPass was morphing into a vaccine passport or e-vaccination certification of compliance for border crossing regulations. Denmark was creating a digital Covid-19 vaccine passport, which was to be rolled out in the first few months of 2021.

Read more: What is a vaccine passport and will you need one the next time you travel? World Economic Forum, 5 May 2021

On 7 March 2022, WEF declared Covid-19 is with us for good now. Heres how we should respond. And produced a video with 8 changes the world needs to make to live with Covid. The steps include: step up vaccination rates around the world to slow down the emergence of variants worldwide, countries should monitor Covid permanently, strengthen global surveillance, they claim, for infectious diseases and make plans to cope with future waves of Covid.

By the end of March, WEF seems to be openly being presenting the world with a digital ID which was no longer Covid specific. In an article titled Why a ruling on digital ID by Kenyas High Court has global implications for online privacy, the World Economic Forum lamented the not so seamless implementation of their digital ID due to the set-back in Kenya.

For the countries implementing these programmes, the associated benefits come with a host of thorny trade-offs surrounding privacy, security and logistics  Many countries continue to grapple with the legal, regulatory, and ethical boundaries of national identification systems, the the WEF article stated.

Immediately above an image of the digital ID landscape WEF stated: The Kenyan case echoes challenges faced by the EU, the US, and other governing bodies when it comes to digitisation of national ID programmes, and the subsequent expectations of privacy for individuals and groups. We have inalienable rights not expectations.

Why a ruling on digital ID by Kenyas High Court has global implications for online privacy, WEF, 31 March 2022

Kenyas digital ID programme, called the National Integrated Identity Management System (NIIMS), was ruled illegal by the highest court because there was no clear documentation of the data privacy risks, nor was there a clear strategy for measuring, mitigating and dealing with those risks. Related concerns about data privacy and security have arisen in other digital ID platforms as well. For example, Indias Aadhaar is the worlds largest biometric digital ID system. Registration is linked to biometrics and demographics, and can connect to services including SIM cards, bank accounts, and government aid programmes, making financial systems more inclusive. Despite these advantages, Aadhaar has seen pushback regarding feasibility and privacy. Why a ruling on digital ID by Kenyas High Court has global implications for online privacy, WEF, 31 March 2022

UN digital dystopia

In November 2020, six months after WEF announced their CovidPass, the UN announced its award-winning solution using blockchain, biometrics and mobile for employees: A digital business solution for digital identity management across the UN family.

The UN DSC, a pilot project of the UN World Food Programme (WFP) and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), with operational support from UNICC, aims to create a suite of digital solutions that can be shared among UN Agencies to transform common business operations and streamline time-consuming transactional tasks. In the spirit of emerging technologies supporting the UN Secretary-Generals Strategy on New Technologies, the UN Digital ID is harnessing blockchain, biometrics and mobility, making UN identity verification efficient, secure, transparent, immutable, portable and universal. The UN Digital ID is a digital wallet for UN personnel, for their personal, Human Resources, medical, travel, security, payroll and pension data kept over time, from onboarding into the UN to parting or retirement. UN Digital ID  A Building Block for UN Digital Cooperation, UNICC, 13 November 2020

UN Digital Solutions Centre: UN Digital ID, 19 November 2020

The Covid endgame: Global Governance, Digital Tyranny and the Depopulation Agenda

The enforcement of the depopulation agenda requires a socially repressive structure of global governance controlled by the financial establishment.

The Worldwide QR Verification Code project lays the groundwork for the instatement of a Digitised Global Police State controlled by the financial establishment. Its part of what the late David Rockefeller entitled The March towards World Government based on an alliance of bankers and intellectuals.

Peter Koenig describes the QR Code as: an all-electronic ID  linking everything to everything of each individual (records of health, banking, personal and private, etc.).

Consultations are also ongoing between WEF and central banks with a view to implementing a so-called Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) network. According to David Scripac: A worldwide digital ID system is in the making.  The aim of the WEFand of all the central banks [is] to implement a global system in which everyones personal data will be incorporated into the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) network.

In early 2022, the WHO signed a major contract with Deutsche Telekom T Systems to develop a QR Verification App and Software which is to be applied Worldwide.

The QR code-based software solution is slated to be used: for other vaccinations as well, such as polio or yellow fever, T-Systems said in a statement  adding that the WHO would support its 194 member states in building national and regional verification technology.

According to a Deutsche Telekom I-T Systems Communique: The WHOs gateway service also serves as a bridge between regional systems, which essentially implies a coordinated global structure of QR surveillance, which oversees the entire population of Planet Earth.

And once established: it will police every aspect of our lives, wherever our location. It can also be used as part of future vaccination campaigns and home-based records.
A voter casts her ballot at a polling station in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 9, 2022. Millions of Kenyan citizens on Tuesday morning cast their ballots at about 46,229 polling stations across the country to elect their fifth president as well as members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors. (Photo by Fred Mutune/Xinhua)

NAIROBI, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Millions of Kenyan citizens on Tuesday morning cast their ballots at about 46,229 polling stations across the country to elect their fifth president as well as members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors.

William Ruto, Kenya's sitting deputy president and a presidential candidate under the Kenya Kwanza (Kenya First) Alliance, cast his ballot at 6 a.m. local time (0300 GMT) at a primary school located in his ancestral Sugoi village in the northwestern county of Uasin Gishu.

Soon after casting his ballot, Ruto said he will respect the election outcomes, after months of heated campaigns.

Ruto is running for the presidency with three other candidates including his closest rival, Raila Odinga, a veteran opposition leader who is running for the presidency under the Azimio La Umoja (Resolution for Unity) One Kenya Coalition.

Odinga is expected to cast his ballot at a primary school in the Kibra slums, the largest informal settlement in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital later during the day.

Other candidates for the presidency include George Wajackoya, a legal scholar who is running under the Roots Party and David Mwaure Waihiga, a seasoned political activist representing the Agano party. 

Raila Odinga, a veteran opposition leader who is running for the presidency under the Azimio La Umoja (Resolution for Unity) One Kenya Coalition, casts his ballot at a polling station in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 9, 2022. Millions of Kenyan citizens on Tuesday morning cast their ballots at about 46,229 polling stations across the country to elect their fifth president as well as members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors. (Photo by Charles Onyango/Xinhua)

People queue to vote at a polling station in Nakuru, Kenya, Aug. 9, 2022. Millions of Kenyan citizens on Tuesday morning cast their ballots at about 46,229 polling stations across the country to elect their fifth president as well as members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors. (Photo by Sheikh Maina/Xinhua)

David Mwaure Waihiga, a seasoned political activist representing the Agano party, casts his ballot at a polling station in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 9, 2022. Millions of Kenyan citizens on Tuesday morning cast their ballots at about 46,229 polling stations across the country to elect their fifth president as well as members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors. (Photo by Fred Mutune/Xinhua)

Residents of the Kibera slums queue to cast their votes at a polling station in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 9, 2022. Millions of Kenyan citizens on Tuesday morning cast their ballots at about 46,229 polling stations across the country to elect their fifth president as well as members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors. (Photo by Fred Mutune/Xinhua)

William Ruto, Kenya's sitting deputy president and a presidential candidate under the Kenya Kwanza (Kenya First) Alliance, casts his ballot at a polling station in the northwestern county of Uasin Gishu, Kenya, Aug. 9, 2022. Millions of Kenyan citizens on Tuesday morning cast their ballots at about 46,229 polling stations across the country to elect their fifth president as well as members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors. (Xinhua)
The Florida judge who sanctioned the FBI raid on Donald Trump owned Mar-a-Lago resort was once linked to Jeffrey Epstein, reported The Post.

On Monday, Judge Bruce Reinhart signed off the search warrant on the former Presidents South Florida estate. Trump referred to it as an unannounced raid on my home.

The raid was conducted to find out if Trump took classified records from the White House to his mansion. A federal grand jury is also investigating Trumps efforts to revoke the 2020 election.

Judge who sanctioned FBI raid on Trump represented employees of Jeffrey Epstein

The magistrate resigned from the local US Attorneys office in 2008 to represent employees of convicted pedophile Epstein.

Epstein was found dead in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges. He had hired a network of distinguished lawyers, including former independent counsel Kenneth Starr.

Epstein had also received immunity in the sex-trafficking investigation of the financier.

According to Reinharts official biography, he had managed a docket that covered the full spectrum of federal crimes, including narcotics, violent crimes, public corruption, financial frauds, child pornography and immigration, in his 12-year tenure as a federal prosecutor.

Reinhart is one of the three federal magistrate judges working in the West Palm Beach offices of the US District Court for the Southern District Court of Florida.

The judge was assigned two warrant applications on Monday, which were entered into the court system, reported the Miami Herald.

However, they sealed information about the warrants and their targets. Reinhart also issued another warrant on Friday but its contents were confidential.

Reinhart accused of breaking Justice Department policies

The judge was accused of breaching the Justice Departments policies through the use of private information from his previous employment to aid the private sector, Daily Mail reported. He denied all the accusations in a 2011 affidavit.

Reinharts ex-colleague later revealed in a 2013 court filing that he had learned confidential, non-public information about the Epstein matter.

He responded that the Justice Department dismissed the complaint filed against him for Epsteins victims.

Reinhart had donated to the 2008 Obama campaign and Jeb Bushs campaign when he ran against Trump in 2015.
Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, Michael Bloomberg and other billionaires are on a mission to find treasures in Greenland as the ice shelf melt. The billionaires are funding a massive treasure hunt in anticipation of finding important minerals and other treasures.

Their expedition capitalizes on the ongoing climate change crisis amidst the massive melting. A recent study on the status of Greenlands ice reserves found that the ice shelves were melting at a rate faster than in the last 12 millennia. Those who are hunting for treasures in the region believe that the ice sheets might have been holding and sitting on some valuable minerals.

The billionaires are in pursuit of a group of critical minerals that are capable of powering the green energy transition. They are already funding researchers for the analysis of soils below the surface of the hills and valleys on Greenlands Disko Island and Nuussuaq Peninsula.

We are looking for a deposit that will be the first or second-largest most significant nickel and cobalt deposit in the world, said Kurt House, CEO of Kobold Metals, reported by CNN.

The loss of ice for the massive ice storage in the world is a concerning matter. For the longest time, experts have used Greenlands ice loss as ground zero for the study of the impacts of climate change. Now, billionaires now target ice loss as an opportunity to hunt for new minerals.

Kobold Metals a mineral exploration company based in California has been at the forefront of exploring these regions. The company has received strong backing from the billionaires club. While the company has confirmed the matter, the billionaires are yet to respond to these speculations.

At the moment, Kobold and Blujay are already funding a team of 30 geologists and geophysicists that are camped on the site in search of minerals. The experts are collecting soil samples and flying drones and helicopters with transmitters to get signals for new minerals.

It is a concern to witness the consequences and impacts from the climate changes in Greenland, said Bluejay Mining CEO Bo Mller Stensgaard. But, generally speaking, climate changes overall have made exploration and mining in Greenland easier and more accessible.

While they are raking in the money on supposedly toward green energy, Greenlands ice will potential disappear in 20 to 30 years at this rate.

Via CNN
CAIRO, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Egyptian government is implementing a clear strategy to transform the country into a regional center for the production and export of green energy, said Egyptian officials and experts.

Egypt recently inked a series of deals with energy firms based in India, Norway, Germany and the United Arab Emirates to set up green hydrogen and green ammonia production facilities in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, with the foreign partners pledging to invest over 40 billion U.S. dollars in total by 2030.

LEVERAGING KEY LOCATION

Egypt has strived "to localize the manufacture of electrolysis used in green hydrogen given the expected growing demand for green fuel from international shipping lines in the near future," Ayman Hamza, a spokesman for the Ministry of Electricity and Renewable Energy, told Xinhua.

The strategic location of the economic zone can help Egypt to become a "leading region in the world in this emerging industry, as well as transforming it into a global logistic center for green bunkering ships," said Presidential Spokesperson Bassam Rady in a statement in May.

The hydrogen generated by renewable or low-carbon power such as solar and wind is called green hydrogen, which helps decarbonize shipping and transport sectors in the future, where it can be used as a fuel.

Chemical industries can produce ammonia using the water electrolysis technique, so a key ingredient in agricultural fertilizer will become greener.

Such cooperation in green hydrogen and green ammonia is part of Egypt's efforts to realize the goal of expanding the renewables in the national energy mix to 42 percent by 2035, along with earmarking 30 percent of government investments to the green field in the current fiscal year, and hosting the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) in November.

NEXUS FOR GREEN GRIDS

"Egypt has developed a strategy to expand green and renewable energy from the sun and wind, and there is great interest from global companies to invest in green energy in Egypt," Hamza said, adding that the proximity to Europe gives Egypt an advantage in supplying one of the fastest growing markets for renewable energy.

Hamza said Egypt's renewable energy production will exceed 10,000 megawatts in 2023, backed by "distinguished projects" such as the Benban Solar Park.

Located in the desert of upper Egypt's province of Aswan, the huge photovoltaic power complex now produces a total capacity of about 1,465 megawatts and can be expanded to a full capacity of 2,000 megawatts.

Ahmed Hegazy, head of the Egypt Green Energy Association, told Xinhua that Egypt is well positioned to be a nexus for the neighboring countries in Africa, Asia and Europe in terms of the power grid and transmission lines.

Foreign investors who coveted the wind energy potential in Egypt have formed joint ventures in building two wind farm projects in the Gabal El Zeit and Zafarana regions along the west coast of the Gulf of Suez, Hegazy added.

COOPERATION UNDER BROADER SCOPE

Egypt, along with its Russian partners, has also pushed forward the plan to build its first nuclear power plant, the El-Dabaa plant.

Located in the Mediterranean province of Matrouh, the plan was designed to have a total capacity of 4,800 megawatts. Egypt announced in July that the construction of the first reactor had begun.

Realizing the profound challenge posed by climate change, Egypt has also deepened cooperation with emerging heavyweight countries in renewable tech and manufacturing such as China, said Egypt's Minister of Environment Yasmine Fouad.

"This includes solar panels, and other cooling and heating facilities with low emission features," she told Xinhua, adding that there are great potentials for Egyptian government entities to cooperate with Chinese partners in getting more energy efficient and environmentally friendly. 
TUNIS, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- A total of 10,000 Tunisian migrants managed to reach the Italian coast illegally this year until Aug. 8, local media reported on Tuesday.

Tunisian migrants represent the largest number among all registered nationalities who arrived in Italy illegally, the private radio station Shems FM reported, quoting a statement issued by the Italian Ministry of Interior.

Tunisia has been one of the main points of access to Europe for the illegal migrants.

The number of illegal migrants attempting to reach Italy from Tunisian coasts usually increases in summer because of good weather conditions. 
It was the kind of chaos brokers are unlikely to forget.

On November 16, 2020, the countrys primary securities exchange froze without warning. The outage lasted for hours and billions of dollars of share trading was sent into limbo.

The disruption  the third in nine years  hit market operator ASX Ltd., already struggling with repeated setbacks to its technology upgrades which continue to this day. A fifth delay was announced this week.

The new chief executive of ASX Limited, Helen Lofthouse. Credit:Stephen Kiprillis

However, despite the problems, ASX Ltd. has continued to provide good value for shareholders. Its share price has risen by more than 60 per cent in the past five years, and financial results have been strong.
Greens senator Jordon Steele-John says not being elected to be the new deputy chair of the NDIS Senate Committee shows the government is failing to centre disabled voices in a vital area of need.

We still dont know who the new NDIA CEO or chair will be, Steele-John tweeted. And with that uncertainty comes so much opportunity to call for what we want: true representation and authentic leadership. Nothing about us without us!

Greens WA senator Jordon Steele-John, who uses a wheelchair, says the major parties are not centring disabled voices. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The WA senator is still on the committee but said the major parties were working to uphold the status quo by electing Liberal senator Hollie Hughes, instead of centring the lived experience of a disabled person.

I know this news will be frustrating for so many members of our community who were expecting better from a government who told us how committed they were to centring disabled voices in the new parliament, Steele-John tweeted.

Hughes, who has an autistic son, established the Country Autism Network and said she is a huge believer in the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
As a teenager, Olivia Newton-John had no dreams of stardom. Hollywood, Grammy Awards and celebrity were not in her vision for her future. She wanted a husband, children and the picket fence, she once said. I always wanted that.

Yet from the moment her mother dragged her to an audition of Johnny OKeefes talent show Sing, Sing, Sing in the early 1960s, stardom rather than domesticity would shape Newton-Johns life. And not always for the better.

Olivia Newton-John with her husband, John Easterling Credit:Justin McManus

Newton-John faced heartbreak, grief, illness and disappointments, which were amplified by the scrutiny of fame, especially during what she called her Britney Spears years. The vulnerability and bravery with which she faced them made Australians love her all the more.

But in her autumn years, Newton-John got her picket fence. In her late 50s she fell in love with John Easterling, a businessman and environmentalist. She spent her final years on their ranch, surrounded by the animals and trees she loved.
Queensland Police speak on double murder at Stretton

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Four people linked to a Brisbane gym have been charged with laundering more than $1.5 million as part of a police operation that uncovered cannabis and cash on a plane.

Three men and a woman have been charged with money laundering and bailed to appear in court this month.

Police say the arrests are part of a money-laundering investigation following the seizure of cocaine, cannabis, $9 million in cash and weapons in December 2020.

Police say the arrests are part of a money-laundering investigation following the seizure of cocaine, cannabis, $9 million in cash and weapons in December 2020.

At that time detectives arrested three men alleged to be involved in an interstate drug syndicate after searching a light aircraft that had flown from Melbourne to Redcliffe.
A future motorway on Brisbanes northside must go underground after a transport corridor preserved for 40 years was found to have become home to endangered species in bushland flanked by housing estates.

A map showing the potential North West Motorway and Brisbane bus extensions. Credit:Brisbane City Council

A two-year, $10 million business case has confirmed serious congestion issues in the area between inner Brisbane and the fast-growing Moreton Bay Regional Council area, but concluded that developing the North West Transport Corridor was not the solution.

Instead, the Brisbane City Council research, funded by the Commonwealth and being considered by all three levels of government, recommended several projects, including an underground North West Motorway.

The research found a motorway, connecting Stafford-Kedron to Carseldine-Bald Hills and bypassing the traffic jams around Chermside shopping centre, could carry 109,900 vehicles a day if free, or 61,100 vehicles if tolled, by 2031. It would have interchanges in several north-west suburbs and partly travel under the corridor.
Sydney man charged with attempted murder after daylight stabbing

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West Australian hospitals will scale back their COVID-19 screening protocols in a bid to free up staff and allow more visitors.

Public hospitals will shift from red alert to a new blue alert level from August 15, bringing an end to several months of heightened precautions.

Patients arriving at Perth hospitals had been required to undergo a rapid antigen test before being admitted. Credit:Getty Images

Patients presenting at emergency departments will only be required to undergo rapid antigen tests upon arrival if they are symptomatic.

The testing requirement will also be removed for asymptomatic visitors unless they are visiting a high-risk area or vulnerable patients.
Australia will chip in about $17 million to help Solomon Islands host the 2023 Pacific Games as part of its efforts to counter the growing influence of Beijing in the region.

The contribution was welcomed by the Solomons as the second largest after China.

Solomon Islands has again been a focus of diplomatic efforts by Australia and the United States this week, as Pacific Minister Pat Conroy, US deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman and US ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy attended the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal in Honiara.

Prime minister Anthony Albanese meets with Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare earlier this eyar Credit:Joe Armao

But Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare failed to attend the commemoration, organised by the US, in a move local media reported as a snub and Sherman labelled a missed opportunity. Both Australia and the US have stepped up their outreach to the country, and the broader Pacific region, after China signed a security pact with the Solomons earlier this year.
ADDIS ABABA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the Ethiopian Government Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS) on Tuesday launched a 73-million-U.S. dollar joint appeal to provide food rations to over 750,000 refugees living in the east African country.

In a joint press statement, the three organizations said the funds are essential to meet the food rations needs of the refugees for the next six months.

"WFP will completely run out of food for refugees by October, leaving vulnerable families who are dependent on food assistance at risk of undernutrition, micronutrient deficiency, susceptibility to diseases and increased protection risks," the statement read.

"Due to protracted funding shortfalls, WFP has already been forced to cut rations for 750,000 registered refugees living in 22 camps and five sites in hosting communities in Ethiopia's Afar, Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz, Gambella, Somali and Tigray regions," the statement further read.

Food insecurity amongst refugees in Ethiopia has risen as a result of the cuts and is even further compounded by current global limitations to food availability, conflict, rising costs of food and energy as well as the fallout from COVID-19.

The three organizations further called on all partners to strengthen efforts to address both the medium and long-term food needs of refugees in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia is the third largest refugee-hosting country in Africa, with 870,507 refugees and asylum seekers as of June 2022, UNHCR figures show. The majority of the refugees originate from South Sudan, Sudan, Somalia and Eritrea. 
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has refused to back his highest-paid trade commissioner, following revelations that the agent-general in London racked up more than $113,000 in expenses in just nine months.

As the John Barilaro trade appointment probe expanded to include the London role, the premier conceded he should have asked his former colleague not to apply for the plum New York post.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and NSW Treasurer Matt Kean, who was appointed deputy leader on Tuesday. Credit:Kate Geraghty

Making his first public comments since Barilaro appeared before the parliamentary inquiry into his appointment, the premier said it was clear the process was flawed.

What has struck me during this period of time has been the problematic process that occurred, he said during a media conference.
Singapore: Taiwans foreign minister says the island is the last obstacle standing in the way of Chinas determination to link the East and South China seas and expand its reach into the Pacific.

In his first major comments since Beijings response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taipei plunged the Taiwan Strait into its worst crisis in decades, Joseph Wu said China had used the drills as a military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan and urged countries to escalate their military engagement to protect the median line.

Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu. Credit:Daniel Ceng

Chinas targeted large-scale military exercises are a serious provocation, he said. Chinas real intention behind these military exercises is to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and the entire region.

Beijing on Monday night accused Australia of undermining regional peace and stability by criticising Chinas military drills in the Taiwan Strait.
Wellington: Choking back tears, New Zealand MP Sam Uffindell has asked voters for a second chance following revelations of a historic boarding school bashing incident and expulsion.

Uffindell is set to stay in parliament and in the opposition National party room after leader Chris Luxon declared the 38-year-old was a changed man from a 1999 assault.

NZ National Party MP Sam Uffindell spoke to reporters on Tuesday when he admitted he wasnt a great person at school. Credit:Stuff

As a 16-year-old, Uffindell raided a 13-year-olds dorm room and beat him, allegedly with bed legs, leaving him bruised and traumatised.

He was expelled from Aucklands exclusive Kings College and did not apologise to the victim until last year.
US President Joe Biden concerned as China extends military exercises

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The Mortgage & Finance Association of Australia has decided to select Anja Pannek as the leading peak industry bodys new CEO, replacing Mike Felton.

The MFAA board of directors announced Panneks appointment as CEO following an extensive search.

Pannek (pictured above) will take over as CEO from Felton on September 5. Felton is retiring after leading the MFAA since 2016. Pannek is one of only a few women to have been appointed CEO of the MFAA.

An experienced leader in financial services, Pannek has a proven track record of leading successful businesses within the third-party channel, particularly in her most recent long-term role as CEO of PLAN Australia.

Read more: MFAA announces National Excellence Awards 2022 winners

Pannek has worked across aggregator businesses and within mortgage distribution for major financial services firms over the past two decades, including leadership roles with Loan Market Group, PLAN Australia, NAB, Advantedge and Challenger Limited.

Pannek said she was excited to begin the role with the MFAA and paid tribute to the previous leadership.

I am thrilled to lead one of Australias pre-eminent industry associations and Im looking forward to working on behalf of members to help continue to strengthen and grow this wonderful industry, Pannek said.

Over the course of my career, I have worked for both large and small businesses within financial services and I am looking to bring fresh ideas and genuine understanding of the challenges our members face every day, as well as the commercial acumen the role requires.

As someone who had worked in the sector for over 20 years and also served as president of the MFAA Aggregator Forum, Pannek she had an intimate understanding of the challenges the mortgage industry faced and the incredible leadership the MFAA showed in responding to regulatory scrutiny.

Ill be looking to continue the work that the current leadership team have done in successfully representing the interests of our members, she said.

MFAA chair Rose De Rossi said Pannek was the perfect fit for the role, given her expertise in commercial roles and experience within and alongside the broker channel.

This is a unique role in that it requires industry knowledge and commercial expertise, as well as strength in strategy, advocacy and communications, De Rossi said. Anjas experience as a CEO, a CFO and as a leader in aggregator businesses made her the standout candidate among an exceptionally talented field.

Read more: MFAA produces eBook on specialist lending

De Rossi said the board agreed that Panneks long experience within the sector would allow her to hit the ground running in the role.

We found her vision for the industry closely aligns with the MFAAs strategy, particular in terms of continuing the mortgage broking journey from an industry to a profession, she said. Anja is also a brilliant communicator and presenter, as you would expect from someone who has been in leadership roles for more than 20 years.

De Rossi said she was extremely pleased with the orderly leadership transition.

My fellow MFAA board members and I could not be happier with Anja as our new CEO and it is great to be appointing our new leader on schedule with plenty of time for Anja to get her feet under the table, she said. Were all looking forward to working with her.

Felton welcomed Panneks appointment as MFAA CEO, citing her proven track-record and thorough understanding of the industry.

Anja is an outstanding appointment for the MFAA who has excelled in previous leadership roles within our industry and I am delighted to hand the baton over to her as my successor, Felton said.

Anja has an exceptional working knowledge of our industry and the issues brokers face and is well known to the MFAA team, given she held the role of president of the MFAA Aggregator Forum for many years and has worked in various businesses within the channel.

Felton said he had every confidence that Pannek would be an amazing leader for the team.

I am looking forward to spending time with Anja over the coming weeks as we transition and conduct a thorough handover, he said.
E-commerce firm Amazon has announced a grant to empower from underrepresented communities to join its Delivery Service Partner (DSP) programme in India.

DSP assists in starting their own delivery business by providing them with access to Amazon's delivery technology and hands-on training. It also provides exclusively negotiated deals on services such as payroll management, insurance, and recruitment technology.

said it has committed nearly $7 million worldwide supporting hundreds of through various grant programmes. A diversity grant assists women, persons with disability and people from the LGBTQIA+ community with covering some of the costs of setting up business. Those with no prior experience can apply for the grant and participate in the programme.

"The DSP program has not only aided Amazon in providing growth opportunities to SMBs, but it has also enabled us to expand our delivery network into the country's hinterlands, said Dr Karuna Shankar Pande, director at Logistics, India. We are offering a special grant to women and other underrepresented communities joining the program to evolve the entrepreneurship ecosystem in .

Rachna Kher, Amazons Delivery Service Partner from Pune said the journey from the corporate sector to a successful entrepreneur as Amazons Delivery Service Partner has been an enriching experience for her. Embarking on this journey with my business partner, Priya Junagade in 2018 wasnt easy but we decided to dream big and chase our dreams, said Kher.

In 2021, expanded the DSP programme in India to support aspiring entrepreneurs to develop and launch their delivery services, even if they had no prior delivery expertise. has more than 350 entrepreneurs who are part of the programme.
has become the first global company to join the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), an Indian government initiative for developing a first-of-its-kind open network for digital commerce. The worlds second-largest technology firm intends to introduce social e-commerce via its app in the Indian market later this year.

ONDC is expected to open to the public in Bengaluru over the next fortnight as it enters into the next phase of the pilot for further fine-tuning before rollouts in other cities, according to a source in the know. ONDC already has a large number of merchants from the city on the platform. While announcing its ONDC onboarding efforts, said it plans to launch a shopping app for Indian consumers, along with their social circle, harnessing the open network to discover the best pricing among retailers and sellers.

The Indian e-commerce industry has tremendous growth potential in the next decade. Initiatives like ONDC can be a game-changer amid this boom. Their UPI-like network for digital commerce is a win-win for both buyers and sellers, as it will enable them to connect without dependency on any e-commerce solution. We are delighted to collaborate with ONDC and cant wait to witness this journey unfold as we plan to introduce a new consumer app experience in the social commerce space, a Microsoft spokesperson said. The US-based tech giant is still in the process of integrating with the network.

The government-backed network is currently in the pilot phase in 36 cities across the country and has already onboarded nine platforms and is in an advanced stage of development of adding another 17.

ONDC also has garnered interest from various other platforms, which including telecom majors and banks, according to a source in the know. The network first began its pilot on April 29 in Delhi, Bengaluru, Coimbatore, Bhopal and Shillong and is in the process of adding more cities before a nationwide launch.

Platforms that have already integrated with ONDC include Paytm, Digiit, eSamudaay, Go Frugal, Growth Falcons, Seller App, Dunzo and Loadshare. And those in advanced stages of development with the network are Kotak, Phonepe, Snapdeal, Sonata, Ushop, Zoho EKart, Ship Rocket, and Bizom, among others.

Those that have shown interest include HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, IDBI Bank, India Post, ITC store, Marico India, Nivea India, Samsung India Electronics, SBI Bank, Delhivery, and Airtel.

The governments initiative for digital commerce intends to increase the gross merchandise value (GMV) of digital transactions from Rs 4.5 trillion annually to over Rs 7.5 trillion in five years. It also looks to expand the coverage of retailers using digital commerce from 15,000 to more than 2 million in five years, and also boost the number of Indians using e-commerce from 90 million users to more than 250 million.

The network aims to provide more access to businesses by increasing discoverability at a low cost. Also, it looks to enhance autonomy (due to multiple choices for being digitally visible), as well as value-chain services (like logistics) to support business growth.

For buyers, ONDCs protocol will provide access to more sellers, enhanced service levels, and faster deliveries due to access to hyper-local retailers. Overall, there shall be a better customer experience.

The project is sponsored by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) and has been set up as a Section 8 company (non-profit organisation).

It is also in the process of completing a small fundraise. This will take its total fundraise to Rs 195 crore. It had earlier raised Rs 157 crore from 17 banks and financial institutions. National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL), and Bank of India are part of the ongoing fundraise.




on Tuesday reported a multifold rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 320.4 crore for the first quarter ended June 30, on higher revenue from the pharmaceutical vertical.

The company had posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 75 crore in the same period last fiscal, Natco Pharma said in a regulatory filing.

Its consolidated revenue from operations during the quarter under review stood at Rs 884.6 crore compared to Rs 410.3 crore in the same period last fiscal, it added.

The pharmaceutical segment revenue increased to Rs 883.6 crore from Rs 409.7 crore in the first quarter of last year. This was inclusive of an income from the settlement of claims received by the company's arm Natco Pharma (Canada) Inc under a settlement agreement.

"During the quarter, export sales of Lenalidomide product to the US was a major contributor to the revenue and profitability of the business," Natco said, adding domestic formulations business remained steady.

Agrochemicals vertical registered revenue of Rs 1 crore, up from Rs 60 lakh in the year-ago quarter, the company said.

The total expenses in the first quarter were higher at Rs 533.1 crore against Rs 336.3 crore a year ago. There was a one-time cost associated with retirement schemes during the quarter and higher than usual R&D costs for product development, it added.

The company paid compensation totalling Rs 29.1 crore under the voluntary retirement scheme during the quarter ended June 30, 2022, Natco said.

The board of directors of the company has also approved an interim dividend of Rs 3.50 each per equity share of Rs 2 each for the financial year 2022-23, the filing 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.)
Bharti Airtels roll-out of 5G on a pan-Indian basis will cover every town and key rural areas by March 2024, the companys chief executive officer and managing director, Gopal Vittal, said in a post-results conference call on Tuesday.

We intend to launch 5G starting August and extending to a pan-Indian roll-out very soon. Detailed network roll-out plans for 5,000 towns in India are in place, Vittal stated in a post result conference call on Tuesday.

He, however, did not give the launch date and said the company was yet to decide on pricing its 5G plans.

Airtel, which saw nearly a six-fold jump in its net profit in the first quarter of FY23 to Rs 1,607 crore on a year-on-year basis, has signed network agreements with Ericsson, Nokia, and Samsung.

While our three-year capex plan will remain around the same levels, this rapid roll-out could see some advancing of capex on an in-year basis, Vittal said.

Globally 5G is not yet giving incremental average revenue per user (ARPU) to any operator. In India tariffs are still low. We expect them to increase. Once they do, the economics will change and the returns on capital will get better, he said.

He defended Airtels spectrum purchase strategy and said it met the companys objective of providing the best in class 5G experience at lower costs.

Bharti Airtel acquired 19,867 MHz, worth Rs 43,084 crore, in the recently concluded spectrum auction.

Rival service provider Reliance Jio has acquired spectrum in the 700 MHz band and plans to develop a standalone network.

700 MHz offers wide coverage and a standalone network offers wider enterprise-level opportunities such as remote surgeries, robotics, and autonomous cars.

Vittal, however, said there were a lot of misconceptions about the 700 MHz band.

This band is no different from 850 MHz or 900 MHz in terms of propagation. All it does is provide coverage at the edge, deep indoor, or in far-flung areas, and gives at best 4G speeds. Nothing more, he told analysts.

Airtel will deploy a non-standalone network and has been acquiring mid-band spectrum in several circles over the past few years as a part of a well-thought-out strategy to support its 5G roll-out, he said.

All devices work in non-standalone mode and they are also supported by a wide eco-system.

In the US and South Korea, where both standalone and non-standalone networks have been launched, the traffic on standalone is less than 10 per cent of the total 5G traffic, he said.

Another advantage, he said, is that can use existing 4G technology at no extra cost.
Weave Capital announced the launch of its multi-stage Venture Capital fund and said its managing partner is Karan Gupta. The fund is the venture arm of SPVH group, a global and holding company having different verticals and business interests.

The Funds General Partner is Sujay Prakash. Weave Capital, a sector agnostic fund with an inclination for technology-enabled businesses, will have a total corpus of $75 million along with a green shoe option of $ 25 million.

Aiming for its first close at $ 20 million, the firm shall participate and lead investments in start-ups intending to raise funding between Seed+ stages to Series B capital.

The fund shall commit a cheque between $ 1 million to 5 million across different stages of the portfolio company. Weave aims to build a portfolio of 1520 start-ups with an average ticket size of $3-3.5 million.

The fund shall start deploying capital post the first close. The fund has filed category II AIF registration and is currently expecting approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India soon.
ABUJA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Nigerian authorities on Tuesday confirmed at least five suspected masterminds of the June 5 deadly attack on a church in the country's southwestern state of Ondo have been arrested.

The suspects were arrested in different locations across the country, said Lucky Irabor, Chief of Defence Staff, at a press briefing in Abuja, the Nigerian capital.

"We had wanted to present the suspects to the public immediately but could not because certain investigations are still being carried out," Irabor said.

Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo, told reporters at a separate press conference on Tuesday in Akure, the state capital, that aside from the masterminds who were arrested, the owner of the building where they lodged before carrying out the attack had also been arrested.

Akeredolu said the security agencies are still on the trail of other gunmen who carried out the horrendous attack on innocent worshippers, adding the government did not spare a moment in trailing the suspected terrorists.

"Now that the military has announced it, I can tell you that five of them have been arrested now," the governor said.

At least 40 worshippers were reportedly killed and 61 others wounded following the bloody attack on the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, a town of Ondo, over two months ago. The Nigerian government said it suspected the Islamic State West Africa Province of being behind the attack. 
Ten people in have been banned for life from filing (RTI) queries in the last 18 months. The Information Commission (GIC), which imposed the ban, listed 'using Act to harass government officials' and 'filing multiple queries' as the reasons, according to a report by the Times of India.

The report quoted research by a Gujarat-based NGO saying that the information commissioners instructed officials not to provide any information regarding the queries in all 10 cases.

In one of the 10 cases, GIC imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 on Hitesh Patel and his wife from Petlad for filing 13 queries demanding information about their residential society.

In another case, the TOI report added that a school teacher from Pethapur in Gandhinagar, Amita Mishra, was handed the ban after she sought a copy of her service book and salary details. The school authorities had stated that Mishra does not pay the required Rs 2 per page fee.

Sattar Majid Khalifa, another school employee from Kasba, was banned after he asked questions about his institution and questioned the intention of steps taken against him. Mishra's and Khalifa's rights were withdrawn by the information commission KM Adhvaryu.

"These orders are not only disputable but also totally illegal and could be challenged by moving the high court," first chief information officer Wajahat Habibullah said.

Dilip Thaker from Bhavnagar has been banned from filing RTIs related to Bhavnagar's chief district health office. Makwana's wife is an employee in the state health department and had earlier sought information on the eligibility for getting government quarters.

Thaker's wife and mother-in-law have been banned from filing for five years.
Between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, aircraft in India faced 478 technical snags. Air India faced 184 glitches, the highest among Indian airlines, minister for state in the Ministry of V K Singh told on Monday. Tiruchi Siva, a member of from Tamil Nadu, asked the question.

"A total of 478 technical snags were reported in the last one-year w.e.f. July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022," Singh said.

Indigo followed with 98 glitches. faced 77 such glitches and stood third on the list





"An aircraft may experience technical snags due to malfunctioning of components/ equipment fitted on the aircraft which require rectification by the for continued safe, efficient and reliable air transport service. These technical snags are reported by the flight crew on receiving an aural/ visual warning in the cockpit or an indication of an inoperative/ faulty system or while experiencing difficulty in handling/ operating the aircraft," Singh added.

In another reply, Singh said that although there were 478 glitches, only 27 safety-related issues were reported between April 1, 2022, and July 25, 2022.

"A total of 177 surveillance exercises, 497 spot checks and 169-night surveillance exercises have been carried out by on engineering and maintenance aspects of scheduled operators during the last one year (July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022)," Singh further added.

Singh also said that in 21 instances where violations were found, appropriate steps had been taken against the . This includes suspension of license, withdrawal of post holder, issuance of warning letters etc.

The ministry issued a show cause notice against based on the evaluation by . From July 27, 2022, the airline has been asked to operate 50 per cent of flights for eight weeks.
will have to mandatorily share PNR details of passengers with customs authorities 24 hours prior to departure of international flights, a move which will prevent law offenders from fleeing the country.

The information, which shall include name, contact details and payment details, will be used by the customs department for improved surveillance and risk assessment of passengers entering or leaving the country, according to a finance ministry notification.

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), under the finance ministry, on August 8 notified the 'Passenger Name Record Information Regulations, 2022', which aims at "risk analysis" of passengers to prevent economic and other offenders from fleeing the country as well as check any illicit trade such as smuggling.

'The Customs Targeting Centre-Passenger', set up by the CBIC, will process information for the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of offences under the Customs Act and also for the law enforcement agencies or government departments or any other country, it said.

With this, India joins 60 other countries that collect PNR details of international passengers.

at present are required to share passenger information limited to name, nationality and passport detail in advance with the immigration authorities.

The government had proposed the requirement of sharing PNR details of passengers 24 hours in advance in the Union Budget for 2017 but a formal process for communication of the passenger data has only been formalised now with the notification issued on Monday.

"Every aircraft operator shall transfer the passenger name record information... of passengers they have already collected such information in the normal course of business operations, to the designated customs systems," the regulations said, adding every aircraft operator will have to seek registration with customs for its implementation.

The information to be shared by airline companies for both inbound and outbound international flights include the name of the passenger, billing/payment information (credit card number), date of issue of ticket as well as intended travel, and names of other travellers in the same PNR, travel itinerary for the PNR, contact details like email id, mobile number, details of travel agency, baggage information and code share information (when one airline sells seats on another air carrier's flight).

While the regulation did not state the reason for seeking such information, analysts said this was to prevent bank loan defaulters from fleeing the country to avoid prosecution.

According to information furnished by the government in Parliament, a total of 38 economic offenders, including Nirav Modi, Vijay Mallya and Mehul Choksi, fled the country in the last five years. Industrialist and former MP Vijay Mallya left the country on March 2, 2016, the day a clutch of public sector banks moved the Debt Recovery Tribunal to recover Rs 9,000 crore unpaid dues to his now-defunct Kingfisher Airline.

Mehul Choksi, one of the prime accused in the alleged over Rs 13,000-crore PNB loan fraud case, too fled to Antigua and Barbuda just as ED and CBI zeroed in on him.

"Every aircraft operator shall transfer passenger name record information not later than 24 hours before the departure time; or at the departure time - wheels off," the regulation said, adding the information would be retained in the customs systems for up to five years.

It further said that for each act of non-compliance to these regulations, the aircraft operators would have to pay a penalty of a minimum of Rs 25,000 and a maximum of Rs 50,000.

With regard to sharing of information with other law enforcement agencies or foreign states, the regulation said that the Customs Targeting Centre-Passenger may share the relevant information on a "case-to-case basis" with other law enforcement agencies or government departments of India or any other country.

KPMG in India, Partner, Indirect Tax, Abhishek Jain said the objective of said regulations is to obtain relevant passenger data for risk analysis to proactively prevent, detect, investigate or prosecute offences under the customs law or any other domestic or international law.

"The onus of timely collecting and sharing such information has been put on the airline operators. Further, while strict privacy guidelines have been stipulated under the said regulations, the government should ensure that the same are duly enforced to prevent unauthorised usage," Jain 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.)
India's Petroleum Corp said on Tuesday it had cut crude processing by a quarter at its 201,000 barrels per day Manali refinery in southern India, following an order by the state board.

Production at the refinery has been reduced on a 'temporary basis' and the company is confident of resolving the issue at the earliest, Petroleum, a subsidiary of the country's top refiner Indian Oil Corp, said in an exchange filing.

The state board had issued the order on Aug. 6.

A company source said the board has issued orders following complaints of liquefied petroleum gas-like odour from residents of area near the refinery.

(Reporting by Nidhi Verma; Editing by Rashmi Aich)

(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 rise in COVID-19 cases in has brought back concerns about school going children, prompting the institutions to come up with online classes and recorded lectures as experts are against school closures.

Health experts believe schools should not be closed. There is, however, a need to reinforce COVID-19-appropriate behaviour, something which the elders and the younger cohort are not adhering to, they said.

As a result, school managements are bringing measures such as sending recorded lectures to students who are ill, allowing online classes for those in isolation and putting study tours on hold.

"We are all aware that COVID-19 is not over yet. We have instituted a proper mechanism of checks to ensure that a student's health is not negated and undermined. Unwell students are isolated and dropped off at their homes so that they can have proper rest and others can study without apprehensions or worries," said Anshu Mital, principal of MRG School, Rohini.

"We also send recorded lectures to unwell students so that they do not lag behind in studies. Students are receiving proper training to give priority to hygiene and sanitisation through health-centric workshops organised for them. Proper social-distancing is being followed as usual," she added.

Shubhi Soni, head of The Shri Ram Wonder Years in Rohini, said although the sudden uptick in COVID-19 cases is alarming, shutting down schools is not an option as students are habituated to planned routines and study timelines which must not be disrupted as it can impede their revived academic progress after the lockdown.

"The health of students should also not be compromised, which is why we are taking necessary precautions of temperature checks and isolation measures for students who are ill. We are also sending worksheets to them so that they do not miss out on studies and can comfortably learn from their homes as well.

"School trips have been put on hold for a while. Outside food is not allowed, and we are facilitating hygienic meals for students. Students are encouraged to bring home-cooked food and abstain from sharing meals with peers," she said.

reported 1,372 more Covid infections and six deaths as the case positivity rate rose to 17.85 percent, the highest since January 21, according to health department data.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said Covid cases are on the rise in but there was no need to panic as most new cases were mild in nature and the city government was keeping a close watch on the situation.

According to Anil Sachdev, director of the Paediatrics Intensive Care at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, children are at an increased risk due to the and seasonal illnesses.

"However, we have seen that children have had mild Covid symptoms. Only two children in the last one month were serious but they had comorbidities. One child had Down syndrome and the other had some comorbidities but those children have recovered. Schools should not be closed but there is a need to reinforce Covid-appropriate behaviour, something which the elders and the younger cohort is not adhering to," he said.

Krishan Chugh, director and HOD of Paediatrics, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, said once a child goes to school while infected but not diagnosed and isolated, they can become a source of infection for classmates and friends.

"Though not common in children, they are not immune to this dreaded disease. In the initial period of the epidemic, they are more likely to pick up the infection from adult close contacts.

"At present there is no need to close the schools but parents and the public should be educated regarding the symptoms and preventive measures of monkey pox," he said.

Schools reopened in completely offline mode from April this year after prolonged closure of nearly two years in view of the pandemic. Experts have been warning against any further closure of school, citing irrepairable learning loss.

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The government has urged the Centre to provide 50 lakh doses of Covid-19 vaccines to expedite the vaccination programme in the state.

State Health Minister T. Harish Rao on Tuesday wrote a letter to Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, urging him to immediately supply 50 lakh doses of Covishield to help ramp up pace of precautionary dose administration.

Rao informed the Central minister that the state has decided to take up a massive drive to administer precautionary doses to the eligible population.

Rao wrote that the state is currently administering only 1.5 lakh doses per day. He told the Central minister that the state is not receiving required quantity of doses.

The minister further said that based on the demand, has the potential to administer over 3 lakh precautionary doses per day, which is not being realised due to a shortage of vaccines, particularly Covishield.

Rao reminded him that the state has repeatedly requested for an increase in vaccine supply. Currently, has only 2.7 lakh vaccine doses available, which is not sufficient even for two days, he wrote

The state health minister highlighted that Telangana has completed 106 per cent of the first dose administration, and 104 per cent of the second dose for people above 18 years.--IANS

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The government has deferred the implementation of some relaxations in existing norms for procuring driving licenses, sources said.

The Transport Department of the government had passed an order stating that certain existing norms for procuring driving licenses will be eased to ensure convenience to the general public from Monday onwards.

However, sources claimed that the government will deliberate on the revised criteria for Automated Driving Test Tracks before its implementation.

Sources said that Transport Minister will once again reassess the guidelines before they are implemented.

The government had issued orders to make modifications at various automated driving test tracks, in view of the rising number of instances of people flunking their tests, officials had said on Saturday.

The Transport Department had constituted a committee to look into the matter which recommended making some modifications. These modifications were supposed to come into effect from August 8.

"There were rising instances of people failing their driving tests due to things that were not concerned with driving. For instance, the width of the last circle on which two-wheeler drivers had to do spiral maneuvering was smaller than the other two circles, which meant that for safety purposes, people had to put their feet to the ground. This meant they would flunk their test," an official had explained.

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Federal regulators said Monday they are satisfied with changes has made in the production of its 787 Dreamliner passenger jet, clearing the way for the company to resume deliveries to airline customers in the coming days.

The Federal Aviation Administration announcement confirmed reports late last month and came days after the agency's acting chief met with safety inspectors who oversee .

The FAA said acting Administrator Billy Nolen wanted to hear about steps has taken to fix manufacturing problems and ensure independence for Boeing employees who work with regulators.

Production of the big, two-aisle 787 has been marred by several problems including gaps between panels of the carbon-composite skin, and use of unapproved titanium parts from a supplier in Italy. Those issues prevented Boeing from delivering any of the planes for most of the last two years, and about 120 have been parked while Boeing tried to fix the production process.

The FAA said it will inspect each plane before it is approved for delivery.

We expect deliveries to resume in the coming days, the FAA said.

Shares of Boeing Co., which is based in Arlington, Virginia, were up 2.4% in afternoon trading Monday.

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Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said the freebie culture has led to deteriorating financial health of many states.

Addressing the Indian Information Service (IIS) officers of 2018 and 2019 batches who came to call on him at his official residence here, Naidu cautioned against the populist measures to garner votes by various political parties.

"The government should definitely support the poor and needy but at the same time should prioritise health, education and infrastructure development," he said.

The Vice President highlighted the role of communication in bridging the divide between the governments and citizens.

"In a democracy, people need to be empowered through timely information on government's policies and initiatives in their mother tongues. On the other hand, governments also need to be apprised of people's expectations and aspirations in an objective and timely manner," Naidu said.

He emphasised the need for constant dialogue between the people and the governments for citizen centric and responsive governance. He said that policymaking and implementation should be a two way process with people's participation at every stage.

Describing India as the largest Parliamentary democracy in the world, he said that the purpose of any reform process should be to make people's life happy and prosperous.

"Therefore, the focus of all government policy measures should be on bringing lasting happiness to people's lives and at the same time, underscored the need to bear with temporary pain for long term gain," he said.

Mentioning that "the ICT revolution and spread of the internet have fundamentally changed the way we consume news, he cautioned that this 'ease of information' comes with its associated risks".

"Misinformation, disinformation and fake news have emerged as new challenges which need to be promptly tackled by the government communicators round the clock," he said.

The Vice President also cautioned against the misuse of social media by certain anti-social elements and called for curbing such tendencies at the earliest.

Drawing attention to the growing trend of 'instant journalism' triggered by the emergence of Internet and social media expansion, Naidu expressed concerns about the erosion of journalistic norms and ethos due to this.

He emphasised the importance of neutrality and objectivity in media reporting and said "news should not be mixed with views".

"Media is the fourth pillar of democracy and its neutrality, objectivity and fairness is crucial for survival of India's democratic ethos," the Vice President said.

He also asked the young officers to bring forth many developmental stories from across the nation.

Terming information and psychological warfare as an important dimension of modern day wars, Naidu advised the IIS officers to develop expertise in these emerging and strategic areas.

Referring to the increasing frequency of extreme climatic events and erratic weather patterns across the globe, the Vice President asked the young officers to run a mass media campaign for nature conservation and environmental protection.

"If you love nature, nature will protect you," he told them.

During the address, his last as the Vice President, Naidu said: "The key to my rise from an ordinary farmer's son to the second-highest constitutional post in the country lies in sheer hard work, single-minded devotion and constant travel and interaction with the people in every part of the country. I have learned a lot by meeting and talking to people."

--IANS

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The Union is expected to soon approve Biological E's Corbevax as a precaution dose for people above 18 years who are double vaccinated with either Covishield or Covaxin, official sources said on Tuesday.

The approval will be based on the recommendations made by the COVID-19 Working Group of the Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) last week, the sources told PTI.

If approved by the government, this would be the first time a booster dose of a Covid vaccine different from the one used for primary vaccination would be allowed in the country.

"Corbevax will be considered as a precaution dose after completion of 6 months or 26 weeks from the date of administration of the second dose of either Covaxin or Covishield vaccines for those aged above 18 years enabling use of Corbevax as a heterologous COVID-19 vaccine for precaution dose administration in this age group," a source said.

This will be in addition to the existing guidelines for homologous precaution dose administration of Covaxin and Covishield vaccines.

India's first indigenously developed RBD protein subunit vaccine Corbevax is currently being used to inoculate children in the age group of 12 to 14 years under the COVID-19 immunisation programme.

The COVID-19 Working Group (CWG), in its July 20 meeting, reviewed data of the double-blind randomized phase-3 clinical study which evaluated the immunogenicity and safety of booster dose of Corbevax vaccine when administered to COVID-19-negative adult volunteers of age 18-80 years previously vaccinated with two doses of either Covishield or Covaxin.

"Following the examination of the data, the CWG observed that Corbevax vaccine can induce significant increase in antibody titers when given to those who have received either Covaxin or Covishield, which is likely to be protective as per the neutralization data also," the source said.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) on June 4 approved Corbevax as a precaution dose for those aged 18 and above.

India began administering precaution doses of vaccines to healthcare and frontline workers and those aged 60 and above with comorbidities from January 10.

The country began inoculating children aged 12-14 from March 16 and also removed the comorbidity clause making all people aged above 60 eligible for the precaution dose of Covid vaccine.

India on April 10 began administering precaution doses of COVID-19 vaccines to all aged above 18 years.

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HKSAR cuts hotel quarantine for inbound travelers to 3 days

Xinhua) 08:49, August 09, 2022

Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) John Lee (C) attends a press conference of the Anti-epidemic Command and Coordination Group in Hong Kong, south China, Aug. 8, 2022. (Xinhua)

HONG KONG, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) will shorten the COVID-19 hotel quarantine period for inbound travelers flying from overseas or Taiwan to three days from the previous seven days starting Friday, the HKSAR government announced Monday.

The quarantine will be followed by four days of health monitoring, during which travelers can leave home but are restricted from restaurants and bars, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee told a press conference.

Lee stressed that the shortening of the hotel quarantine period doesn't mean the HKSAR is giving up on controlling the pandemic, adding that the local government is striking a balance between risk control and economic development.

He also vowed to introduce scientific methods in pandemic control and efforts to reduce the number of severe cases and deaths.

Officials also unveiled a tiered health-code system. A yellow code will be given to people under quarantine and health monitoring to limit their activities, and anyone testing positive will be given a red code. A blue code will be given once the quarantine and health monitoring period has ended.

The HKSAR reported 4,040 new COVID-19 cases Monday, 3,807 of which were locally transmitted.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
JAKARTA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Starting Tuesday, Indonesia lowered the reference threshold for crude palm oil (CPO) export tax to 680 U.S. dollars per ton from 750 dollars per ton, according to the Finance Ministry.

Under the new policy, CPO export and its derivative products, refined, bleached and deodorised (RBD) palm oil, and RBD palm olein, will get zero tax if reference price is set at lower than 680 dollars per ton.

When the reference is set above 680 dollars, the export tax will be set at a minimum of three dollars per ton and a maximum of 288 dollars per ton, according to the regulation.

"In order to anticipate price changes in the international market and to be in line with the policy for downstreaming agricultural and forestry products, it is necessary to adjust the reference price ranges," said the regulation. 
Minister Kanwar Pal on Monday said that 5 lakh were purchased for the students of Classes 10 to 12 studying in .

He said that total expenditure incurred on the purchase of the is Rs 620 crore.

He gave this information while responding to a question raised during Question Hour by Independent MLA Balraj Kundu on the opening day of the three-day monsoon session of the state assembly here.

The Minister said the children will get free internet facility with the usage of 2 GB data per day.

The tender for the purchase of the was floated by the Directorate of Supplies & Disposals, Haryana, and the company whose tablets were purchased was chosen in a process carried out in a transparent manner, said the Minister in his response when Kundu sought to know on what basis had the company's tablets been purchased.

The Minister said a committee of technical experts from IT Cell of the Department of School Education, Haryana, comprising the Joint Director (IT), Deputy Director (IT) and Programmers has recommended the specifications.

He said that these specifications were approved by the Administrative Secretary of School Department.

The Education Minister said that Personalized & Adaptive Learning (PAL) software has been provided along with the tablets for English, Hindi and Social science subjects.

To another concern raised by Kundu, the Minister said the tablets have inbuilt mechanism which prevent misuse of these tablets by children other than for the intended purpose.

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The government on Monday withdrew the Control of Organised Bill, 2020, after "certain discrepancies" were pointed out by the Centre.

The Bill had made special provisions for prevention and control of and for coping with criminal activity by organised syndicates or gangs.

The 2019 version of the Bill too had been withdrawn following some observations to certain provisions after which a revised one was brought in 2020. But that too has been taken back after the law and justice ministry and the finance ministry at the Centre pointed out certain "discrepancies".

A revised bill will be moved later.

Certain provisions of the Control of Organised Bill, 2020, were also found to be in conflict with the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Act.

Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Monday moved a resolution in the Assembly to withdraw the 2020 Bill.

The Haryana Control of Organised Crime Bill, 2020, was passed by the Assembly on November 6, 2020, and the Governor had reserved it for the consideration of the President of India under Article 201 of the Constitution.

On November 5, 2020, Vij had proposed a resolution to withdraw the Haryana Control of Organised Crime Control Bill, 2019, which was passed by the Assembly on August 4, 2019.

At that time, on seeking comments from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology by the Union Home Ministry, it was pointed out that the provision for interception as proposed in Section 14 of the 2019 bill was already covered under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Information Technology Act, 2000.

According to the resolution moved by Vij on Monday, the Bill was sent to the Ministry of Home Affairs for the assent of the President.

On seeking comments of the Union Ministry of Law and Justice and Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue, certain discrepancies were found by the Ministry of Law and Justice and further certain provisions of the Bill were found in conflict with the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Act by the Ministry of Finance, Department of Revenue," said the resolution.

The Ministry of Home Affairs conveyed to the office of the Haryana Governor, "The state government is requested to consider withdrawing the Bill from this Ministry and submit a fresh Bill after duly incorporating the suggestions of the Legislative Department, Ministry of Law and Justice".

The matter was deliberated upon and it was decided to request the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to return the Bill, as Haryana intends to send a revised Bill in view of the observations made by the Ministry of Law and Justice and Ministry of Finance, the resolution stated.

"The Haryana chief minister, exercising the power of the Council of Ministers, has decided to withdraw the Bill.

"Now, therefore, in pursuance of the provisions contained in Article 200 and 201 of the Constitution of India, the State Legislative Assembly hereby resolves to withdraw the Bill," said Vij while reading out the resolution.

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A joint exercise between the special forces of India and the US began on Monday in Himachal Pradesh's Bakloh, officials said, adding the drill aims to improve inter-operability between the special forces of both the countries.

"The 13th edition of the Indo-US Joint Special Forces exercise -- Ex Vajra Prahar 2022, began at the Special Forces Training School in Bakloh today," the Defence Ministry said in a statement.

This joint annual exercise is hosted alternatively between India and the US to share the best practices and experiences in areas such as joint mission planning and operational tactics.

The US contingent is represented by personnel from the 1st Special Forces Group (SFG) and Special Tactics Squadron (STS) of the US Special Forces while the Indian contingent is formed by drawing Special Forces personnel under the aegis of SFTS, the statement said.

The 12th edition of this exercise between India and the US was conducted at Joint Base Lewis Mcchord, Washington (US) in October 2021.

According to the Defence Ministry, during the course of next 21 days, teams of both armies would jointly train, plan and execute a series of special operations, counter terrorist operations, air borne operations in simulated conventional and unconventional scenarios in mountainous terrain.

This joint exercise is a significant step in strengthening the traditional bond of friendship between the special forces of both nations as well as improve bilateral defence cooperation between India and the US, the statement noted.

--IANS

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The government on Tuesday said it will release 356 prisoners undergoing life imprisonment in various jails in the state on August 15 to commemorate 75 years of India's independence.

Speaking to reporters, state Home Minister Narottam Mishra said prisoners undergoing life imprisonment will be released from jails as per the guidelines issued by the Union Home Ministry and norms of the state government.

These 356 prisoners include those who are being freed as per the Centre's guidelines to mark 75 years of independence and those being released under the state government's annual practise on August 15, he said.

Convicts serving jail term for serious crimes such as rape will not be released, the minister added.

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The Police will soon launch an initiative to reunite missing or abducted children with their families.

The 'Operation Reunited' will be started on August 15, the country's 75th Independence Day, and go on till September 15, an official said on Monday.

To make the initiative successful, the city police have sought help from citizens to help them find the missing and abducted children, he said.

During the month-long exercise, the police will also search for the parents of such children and help them reunite with their families, the official said.

The police have also appealed to people to inform them on helpline numbers 100 or 1098 about children found in suspicious condition, those begging on railway stations, bus depots and roads and those engaged in rag-picking, he said.

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will celebrate 75 years of independence on August 15, 2022. The has planned several activities under the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mohatsav' to mark the occasion. The 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign has been launched by the Ministry of Culture that aims to unfurl 200 million flags across the country to mark the day.

As we give due importance to the Tricolour this year, it is imperative to know that contrary to popular belief, our was not unfurled for the first time, after India's independence, at the .

It was unfurled by the first Prime Minister at the Princess Park near Gate in New Delhi on August 15, 1947.

On August 14, the midnight session of the Constituent Assembly decided to give the post of interim governor-general to Louis Mountbatten.

After the proposal was accepted by Mountbatten and the leaders were exiting the Assembly building, the crowd was so thick that they found it extremely difficult to exit the building.

Pamela Mountbatten, daughter of Louis, wrote, "After the ceremony (in the Assembly Building) they could not get out of the doors for some time as the crowd was still so thick."

The next day, on August 15, 1947, after Lord Mountbatten took oath as the first governor-general of independent India, he, along with Nehru, went to Roshanara Bagh to meet 5,000 children and their parents who had gathered there.

After that, the main event was planned to be held at Princess Park. Nehru was to lower the Union Jack and hoist the Tricolour. This was to be followed by a small parade. However, the plan was changed.

"This programme had originally included a ceremonial lowering of the Union Jack but when I discussed this with Nehru he entirely agreed that this was a day they wanted everybody to be happy, and if the lowering of the Union Jack in any way offended British susceptibilities, he would certainly see that it did not take place," Mountbatten was quoted as saying in a report by The Print.

The park was filled with a 'sea of people'. After considerable difficulty, Nehru and Mountbatten reached the dais for the ceremony. Nehru then unfurled the national flag, followed by the national anthem and a 31-gun salute.

It was only on August 16 that Nehru went to the and unfurled the Tricolour there. He delivered his first Day speech and called himself the ' sevak' of .
After five years of negotiations involving the government, tech companies and civil society activists, the worlds largest democracy is sending its debate on privacy back to the drawing board. The Indian government has junked the personal data protection bill, and decided to replace it with a comprehensive legal framework. If the current anarchy wasnt bad enough, nobody knows what the revamped regime will contain  whether it it will put individuals first, like in Europe, or promote vested commercial and party-state interests, like in .



Back in 2017, Indias liberals were hopeful. In July that year, New Delhi set up a panel under retired Justice B.N. Srikrishna to frame data protection norms. The very next month, the countrys Supreme Court held privacy to be a part of a constitutionally guaranteed right to life and liberty. But the optimism didnt take long to fade. The law introduced in parliament in December 2019 gave the government unfettered access to personal data in the name of sovereignty and public order  a move that will turn India into an Orwellian State, Srikrishna cautioned.

Those fears are coming true even without a privacy law. Razorpay, a Bengaluru-based payment gateway, was compelled by the police recently to supply data on donors to Alt News, a fact-checking portal. Although the records were obtained legally  as part of an investigation against the websites cofounder  there was no safeguard against their misuse. The risk that authorities could target opponents of the ruling Hindu right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party led to howls of protests about the stifling of dissent under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The backdrop to Indias privacy debate has changed. Six years ago, mobile data was expensive, and most people  especially in villages  used feature phones. Thats no longer the case. By 2026, India will have 1 billion smartphone users, and the consumer digital economy is poised for a 10-fold surge in the current decade to $800 billion. To get a loan from the private sector or a subsidy from the state, citizens now need to part with far too much personal data than in the past: Dodgy lending apps ask for access to entire lists of phone contacts. The Modi government manages the worlds largest repository of biometric information and has used it to distribute $300 billion in benefits directly to voters. Rapid digitization without a strong data protection framework is leaving the public vulnerable to exploitation.

Europes general data protection regulation isnt perfect. But at least it holds natural persons to be the owners of their names, email addresses, location, ethnicity, gender, religious beliefs, biometric markers and political opinion. Instead of following that approach, India sought to give the state an upper hand against both individuals and private-sector data collectors. Large global tech firms, such as Alphabet Inc., Meta Platforms Inc. and Amazon.com Inc., were concerned about the now-dropped bills insistence on storing critical personal data only in India for national security reasons. Not only does localization get in the way of efficient cross-border data storage and processing, but as has shown with Didi Global Inc., it can also be weaponized. The ride-hailing app was forced to delist in the U.S. months after it went public there against Beijings wishes and eventually slapped with a $1.2 billion fine for data breaches that severely affected national security.

Still, the scrapping of the Indian bill will bring little cheer to Big Tech if its replacement turns out to be even more draconian. Both Twitter Inc. and Metas WhatsApp have initiated legal proceedings against the Indian government  the former against arbitrary directions to block handles or take down content and the latter against demands to make encrypted messages traceable. The governments power to impose fines of up to 4% of global revenue  as envisaged in the discarded data protection law  can come in handy to make tech firms fall in line; so its unlikely that New Delhi will dilute it in the new legislation.

For individuals, the big risk is the authoritarian tilt in Indias politics. The revamped framework may accord even less protection to citizens from a Beijing-inspired mix of surveillance state and surveillance capitalism than the abandoned law. According to the government, it was the 81 amendments sought by a joint parliamentary panel that made the current bill untenable. One such demand was to exempt any government department from privacy regulations as long as New Delhi is satisfied and state agencies follow just, fair, reasonable and proportionate procedures. Thats too much of a carte blanche. To prove overreach, for instance in the Alt donors case, citizens would have to mount expensive legal battles. But to what end? If the law doesnt bat for the individual, courts will offer little help.

Minority groups in India have the most at stake. S. Q. Masood, an activist in the southern city of Hyderabad, sued the state of Telangana, after the police stopped him on the street during the Covid-19 lockdown, asked him to remove his mask and took a picture. Being Muslim and having worked with minority groups that are frequently targeted by the police, Im concerned that my photo could be matched wrongly and that I could be harassed, Masood told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. The zeal with which authorities are embracing technologies to profile individuals by pulling information scattered across databases shows a hankering for a Chinese-style system of command and control.

The abandoned Indian data protection legislation also wanted to allow voluntary verification of social-media users, ostensibly to check fake . But as researchers at the Internet Freedom Foundation have pointed out, collection of identity documents by platforms like Facebook would leave users vulnerable to more sophisticated surveillance and commercial exploitation. Worse still, what starts out as voluntary may become mandatory if platforms start denying some services without identity checks, depriving whistleblowers and political dissidents of the right to anonymity. Since that wasnt exactly a bug in the rejected law, expect it to be a feature of Indias upcoming privacy regime as well.
Indias plan to produce from second-generation (2G) sources -- mainly farm waste -- is taking time to materialise even as the government is set to dedicate to the nation on Wednesday a Rs 900-crore plant set up by (IOC) in Panipat.

Though state-run oil companies had decided to set up at least 12 plants in 2016-17 with an investment of around Rs 10,000 crore, this will be the first unit coming on track while others are stuck in various stages owing to issues like capital expenditure, lack of feedstock, and high rates of finished products compared to traditional units.

According to industry sources, three more second-generation plants are coming up. They are in Bathinda, Punjab (Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, or HPCL); Bargarh, Odisha (Bharat Petroleum Corporation, or BPCL); and Numaligarh, Assam (Numaligarh Refinery).

Each of these four units has got a financial assistance of around Rs 150 crore from the government.

Of the 12 units planned by state-run companies, HPCL is expected to come up with four, IOC and BPCL with three each, Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals with one, and the Numaligarh Refinery also with one.

Private-sector companies have lined up 16 units and a majority of them are still stuck at various stages of execution.

Reasons for the delay

is classified into first-, second-, and third-generation, depending on the raw material used in production.

In first-generation ethanol, raw materials used are food sources like sugarcane and seeds, while second-generation ethanol uses farm waste after harvest like rice husks, corn cobs, wheat straw, and sugarcane bagasse.

In third-generation ethanol, algae grown in wastewater or salt water are used as raw material.

In second-generation, raw materials should be first converted into sugar and the enzyme used for that is still not manufactured in India. While a first-generation plant can be built for around Rs 150 crore, a second-generation one of the same size requires around Rs 900 crore, said Abinash Verma, a sugar industry expert and former director-general of the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA).

Collecting paddy straws in India will not be easy for companies setting up second-generation units, he said.

The idea of coming up with more second-generation plants was initiated after stubble burning started becoming a major cause of pollution in the National Capital Region. Hence, industry experts are indicating that social benefits should be a point of concern while considering second-generation plants rather than looking at mere financial benefits.

Even ethanol produced from this is not commercially viable for consumers because it may cost you around Rs 120 a litre as against around Rs 60 a litre range for first-generation units, Verma added.

The Panipat plant, according to the government, is based on state-of-the-art indigenous technology and will utilise about 200,000 tonnes of rice straw (parali) annually to generate around 30 million litres of ethanol a year.

India has set a target of blending 20 per cent of petrol with ethanol by 2025 and to achieve this, the country should produce 10-11 billion litres, of which 6-6.5 billion litres will come from sugarcane and the rest will have to be contributed by corn- and grain-based sources.

To produce this, a capacity for 12 billion litres will have to be installed. Of that 6.5-7.0 billion litres would be from sugarcane and the rest from corn-based distilleries.

As in 2021, the capacity is about six billion litres. Of that sugarcane sources contribute 5.25 billion litres while that from corn-based distilleries is just 750 million litres. Therefore, to achieve the 20 per cent blending target, grain-based distillation must pick up more pace than sugarcane-based ethanol.
The staff at post offices misappropriated Rs 95.62 crore of public money between November 2002 and September 2021, the has said.

The money may seem small but it is what common citizen invested in post office savings, the oldest and the largest banking system in the country. The system serves the investment needs of urban and rural clients through schemes such as savings bank, recurring deposits, time deposits, national savings certificates, kisan vikas patras, public provident fund, monthly income account scheme, sukanya samriddhi accounts and senior citizens savings scheme.

The Department of Posts (DoP) offers these services on an agency basis for the finance ministry.

The CAGs audit report on finance and communication, tabled in Parliament on Monday, said that postal staff in five circles made fraudulent withdrawals of Rs 62.05 crore from closed accounts that were shown as active with fake balances and then closed again.

It also found instances of manipulation in the database by opening fake accounts and making fake entries of deposits into these accounts and subsequent withdrawal of money of Rs 15.98 crore from these accounts in four circles.

In eight circles, cash deposits of Rs 9.16 crore by customers were entered in passbooks but not credited to their post office accounts. Postal staff subsequently withdrew the money.

In four circles, fraudulent withdrawals worth Rs 4.08 crore were made from customers' saving accounts with fake signatures /thumb impressions facilitated by the postal staff.

There were cases of unauthorised use of user ID and passwords by other postal staff or outsiders, leading to the fraudulent withdrawal of Rs three crore in four circles.

Postal staff in connivance with outsiders in two circles opened accounts for fake deposits of Rs 1.35 crore, which was withdrawn subsequently.

said out of fraud/ misappropriation of Rs 95.62 crore, the DoP recovered Rs 14.39 crore (inclusive penalty/ interest of Rs 40.85 lakh) from the concerned persons involved. This means Rs 81.64 crore is due to be recovered.

DoPs inspecting authorities in some cases failed to detect the fraud/ misappropriations even after a lapse of more than five years and the crime came into light after customer complaints.

said it is evident that the DoP staff and supervisory authorities did not carry out prescribed internal checks effectively and there were monitoring failures.

The postal authorities in West Bengal, Haryana, Trivandrum, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh postal circles stated that the necessary guidelines have been issued for settling issues and also to get cases investigated by the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation, said.

Postal authorities in Punjab, Odisha, Rajasthan and Tamil Naidu circles stated that actions against offenders would be taken or was under process.

Replies from Telangana, Delhi, J&K, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra circles are awaited. The matter was further referred to the ministry of communications in February this year and their reply is awaited, CAG said.
The Centre has mandated to share with the Customs department records of passengers, who are travelling on international flights to and from India, from August 8. The move, aimed at conducting risk-analysis of passengers for improving surveillance, would help the department track and prevent increased cases of smuggling.

In a notification issued on Monday, the nodal authority of the Customs department  the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)  said, Every operator is now required to provide details to National Customs Targeting Centre-Passenger (NCTC-P). This would be not later than 24 hours before the departure time, CBIC said.

This passenger name record information will include details like PNR, date of reservation and issue of ticket as well as frequent flyer and benefit information (like free tickets, upgrades). It would also contain all available payment or billing information (like credit card number), travel itinerary and the travel agency, CBIC elaborated in the notification.

It further said NCTC-P has been established to receive and process information for risk analysis of passengers. It is for the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of various offences under the Customs Act.

It is also for the law enforcement agencies and government departments, as required, in India and abroad, it noted.

While the government had proposed this requirement in the Union Budget of 2017, a formal process for communication of passenger data has been introduced only now after the notification was issued on Monday.

Currently, are required to share passenger information in advance with the immigration authorities. However, that is limited to the passengers name, nationality and passport details, among others.

With this, India joins 60 other countries that collect details of international passengers.

Sources say that a spike in smuggling, especially of gold, has prompted the move.

The Custom department has been witnessing a surge in smuggling, following the import duty hike on gold to 12.5 per cent from 7.5 per cent.

In fact, gold smuggling through airports in the country continues unabated. It seized a total 2,774 kg of the yellow metal worth Rs 983.12 crore in the last six years.

Of the total quantity of gold intercepted, 585.79 kg worth Rs 263.33 crore was seized in 2021-22 (675 cases). Around 403.11 kg of gold worth Rs 184.13 crore was seized in 652 cases in the previous year.

The CBIC, however, clarified that the passenger information collected by the Customs will be subject to strict information privacy and protection, in accordance with the applicable law.

The PNR details will be retained for a maximum of five years, it said.

The government will also carry out systems and security audits annually to prevent any misuse of PNR information by senior officials.

Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said this new legal framework for passenger data will address concerns of international .

We expect the notification to be followed by specific guidelines for implementation by the CBIC. Importantly, the roll out should now bring an end to the non-standard passenger data requests by multiple agencies at various airports, said Amitabh Khosla, country director, IATA.

In March, for instance, IATA had complained to the ministry about non-standard requests for passenger data by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence.

While strict privacy guidelines have been stipulated under the regulations, the government should ensure that they are duly enforced to prevent unauthorised usage, said Abhishek Jain, partner, indirect tax, India.

The PNR regulations would be an effective tool in curbing cross-border crimes. The regulations would further help in curbing illegal activities, said Tanushree Roy, director, indirect tax, Nangia Andersen India.




ISLAMABAD, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Four soldiers were killed in a suicide bombing in North Waziristan district of Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, an army statement said on Tuesday morning.

The attack took place in Mir Ali area of the district on a military convoy resulting in the deaths of four young soldiers, the army's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations said in a statement.

The intelligence agencies have commenced investigations to find out the details regarding the suicide bomber, and his handlers and facilitators, it added.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif condemned the attack, saying that the evil designs of terrorists would go futile, the Prime Minister's Office said in a statement. 
As Russia again accused of shelling the Zaporizhzhya plant, concerns grew for the safety of the complex which has witnessed repeated shelling in recent days.

An accident at the Ukrainian nuclear plant in Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhya would be far worse than the Chernobyl or Fukushima disasters, dpa news agency quoted Yevheny Zymbalyuk, Kiev's envoy to the Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as saying in Vienna on Monday.

He warned of severe consequences not only for Ukraine, but all of Europe.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also warned of the danger of the current situation, saying that "any attack on a nuclear plant is a "suicidal thing".

"What will happen in a radius of 40 or 50 km of the station, that is absolutely not comparable to Chernobyl or Fukushima," Zymbalyuk added.

Analysts however say compared to the plants at Chernobyl and Fukushima, Zaporizhzhya is better protected thanks to a separate cooling circuit and a special protective layer, although it would probably be unable to withstand a targeted military attack.

Zymbalyuk again demanded monitors from the IAEA to be sent to Zaporizhzhya along with unarmed military observers.

He said IAEA representatives should be on the ground by the end of the month.

The IAEA has long complained that it is waiting to access to the plant and said that any deployment would require the support of both Moscow and Kiev.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov urged the West to put pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as Moscow accuses of shelling the nuclear plant.

"We expect that the countries that have absolute influence over the Ukrainian leadership will use this to prevent further shelling," Peskov said.

He spoke of a "highly dangerous activity" with, in the worst case, catastrophic consequences for all of Europe.

In Washington, White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre on Monday said the US continues to "closely monitor the activity as the Department of Energy and the National Nuclear Security Administration report that the radiation sensors are continuing to provide data, and thankfully we have seen no indications of increased or abnormal radiation levels".

"And we continue to call on Russia to cease all military operations at or near Ukrainian nuclear facilities and return full control to Ukraine," she added.

--IANS

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The top U.N. Mideast envoy warned Monday that the ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militants is fragile and the cycles of violence" will only stop when an independent Palestinian state lives side-by-side with Israel.

Tor Wennesland called on Israeli and Palestinian leaders and the community at an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council on the latest violence to strengthen diplomatic efforts to return to meaningful negotiations towards a viable two-state solution.

An Egyptian-mediated truce took effect late Sunday, ending the worst round of violence since an 11-day war between Israel and Hamas last year.

Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005 and has fought four wars with Hamas since the group won a 2006 election in Gaza and seized power from Fatah in 2007.

The clashes have exacted a staggering toll on the impoverished territory's 2.3 million Palestinian residents.

Israel began the offensive last Friday targeting Islamic Jihad fighters in Gaza, saying it faced concrete threats from the militant group.

The nearly three days of violence killed 46 Palestinians, including 15 children and four women, and wounded 311, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, while 70 Israelis were injured, according to the U.N. envoy.

Wennesland condemned the Palestinians' indiscriminate rocket fire aimed at populated centres in Israel.

He recognised Israel's security concerns but stressed that any use of force must be proportionate, with all feasible steps taken to avoid civilian casualties.

The U.N. envoy said the Egyptian-mediated ceasefire helped prevent the outbreak of a full-scale war and warned that any resumption of hostilities will only have devastating consequences for Palestinians and Israelis and make any political progress elusive.

The Palestinian U.N. ambassador, Riyad Mansour, said the Palestinian people are powerless, and urged the Security Council to take action to ensure their protection.

As the highest authority responsible for the maintenance of peace and security, how many more years does it (Israel) get to impose its inhumane blockade on 2 million people (in Gaza), half of them children until someone says enough is enough?, he asked.

How many more children do we have to bury until someone says enough is enough?



Mansour said the current situation is profoundly unsustainable, and demanded that the council not wait until the next war or the next election to implement and enforce Security Council resolutions backing a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the council that President Joe Biden, who visited the region in July, reaffirmed that the United States remains deeply committed to a two-state solution.

The United States strongly urges all parties to refrain from any unilateral steps that would imperil progress, she said.

We call on all member states to join us in supporting steps that can stabilize the situation on the ground, deliver economic benefits to the Palestinian people, and revitalise political horizons that meets the needs of both Israelis and Palestinians, Thomas-Greenfield said.

Israel's U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan told the Security Council its military took action to protect our civilians and defend our country" and conducted the operation with astounding accuracy and extreme precision, doing everything possible to minimise civilian casualties.

Due to these extensive and documented precautions, there is no other military, I reiterate no other military, that has such a low collateral damage rate, Erdan told the council.

He stressed that the only reason Gaza is in the situation it is now is that Hamas and Islamic Jihad chose terror and violence over coexistence and peace.

There is no other explanation, Erdan said.

The only remedy for the Gazans is that their leaders stop trying to annihilate Israel and stop investing the resources in terror infrastructure.

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Former US President has said that his residence in Florida has been "raided" by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

"My beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of agents," Trump added on Monday in a statement released through his political action committee -- 'Save America'.

The raid has great significance for American . The reports coming in indicate that former president had taken some classified documents with him. Now, if any such documents are found at his home, he would be barred from holding any office for life.



Also Read: Trump vs Biden Rematch in 2024? Polls suggest America wants new face

18 US Code 2071 - Concealment, removal, or mutilation generally state...

(a) Whoever willfully and unlawfully conceals, removes, mutilates, obliterates, or destroys, or attempts to do so, or, with intent to do so takes and carries away any record, proceeding, map, book, paper, document, or other thing, filed or deposited with any clerk or officer of any court of the United States, or in any public office, or with any judicial or public officer of the United States, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both.

(b) Whoever, having the custody of any such record, proceeding, map, book, document, paper, or other thing, willfully and unlawfully conceals, removes, mutilates, obliterates, falsifies, or destroys the same, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both; and shall forfeit his office and be disqualified from holding any office under the . As used in this subsection, the term "office" does not include the office held by any person as a retired officer of the Armed Forces of the .

The twice-impeached President was notorious for ripping up documents in his frequent rages, forcing aides to collect scraps that later had to be taped back together and submitted to the National Archives.

Trump also took several boxes stuffed with records, including papers marked "CLASSIFIED" with him to his estate when he left the on January 20, 2021.

The actions could violate the Presidential Records Act, which says that such records are government property and must be preserved.

However, any statement were neither issued by the or the US Justice Department. The former President was not at his house at the time of raids.

US legal experts said that a search of this kind has to be cleared by a federal judge on two essential grounds: One, there is probable cause that a federal crime has been committed and is being investigated and two, related evidence is stored at the site of the search.
The European Union's (EU) emergency plan to prepare for a possible halt in Russian gas supplies will come into force on Tuesday, after it was published in the bloc's official journal the previous day.

Under the plan, EU countries are to reduce their gas consumption voluntarily by 15 per cent between August 1 this year and March 31, 2023, compared to the average consumption in the same period during the past five years, reports dpa news agency.

According to European Commission figures, a total of 45 billion cubic meters of gas are to be saved to reach the target.

Germany alone would have to consume around 10 billion cubic meters less.

The aim of the gas savings is to prepare for a possible total cut of Russian gas supplies to the EU, after Moscow significantly reduced gas supplies to the bloc in recent months.

The new contingency plan also foresees the possibility of triggering an EU-wide alert in the event of widespread gas shortages with mandatory gas savings targets.

At least 15 EU countries, representing at least 65 per cent of the 27-member bloc's total population, would have to give their approval to activate the alert with binding consumption cuts.

Several countries, including Italy and Spain, have secured exemptions for such an event, and would have to save less than 15 per cent.

The emergency plan will initially be in place for one year.

--IANS

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The has raided Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort and residence in Florida and broke open his safe as part of a reported probe into whether he took classified documents from the White House, triggering an angry outburst from the former US president who called it an attempt by the Democrats to block his presidential bid in 2024.

These are dark times for our nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of agents. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before, Trump said in a statement on Monday.

The search was related to the 15 boxes of documents that Trump took to Mar-a-Lago when he departed the White House in January 2021 -- some of which the National Archives has said were marked classified, according to US media reports.

In January, Trump handed over the documents to the National Archives, and attorneys for the 76-year-old Republican Party leader said they were searching for any more records they may have.

The Justice Department and the FBI declined to comment on the raid.

Trump, who was the 45th President of the US, was not at his Palm Beach estate during the search and was in the New York City area.

The dramatic escalation of law enforcement scrutiny of Trump comes as he prepares for a possible third presidential run in 2024. The raid took place amid a separate grand jury investigation into his alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election won by Joe Biden, his Democratic Party rival.

After working and cooperating with the relevant government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Trump said.

Trump alleged that such an assault could only take place in broken, third-world countries.

Sadly, America has now become one of those countries, corrupt at a level not seen before, he said.

Trump blamed the Democratic Party who did not want him to run for president in 2024 for the raid, and said the same people also want to stop Republicans from winning in the midterm elections in November.

It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponisation of the justice system, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately don't want me to run for President in 2024...," he said.

He demanded that the lawlessness, political persecution and witch-hunt must be exposed and stopped.

They even broke into my safe! What is the difference between this and Watergate, where operatives broke into the Democrat National Committee? Here, in reverse, Democrats broke into the home of the 45th President of the United States, the former president said.

Trump's son, Eric, told Fox News that "the purpose of the raid, from what they said, was because the National Archives wanted to, you know, corroborate whether or not had any documents in his possession."



In February, the National Archives asked the Justice Department to investigate Trump's handling of White House records.

The National Archives, charged with collecting and sorting presidential material, has previously said at least 15 boxes of White House records were recovered from Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort -- including some that were classified.

The estate sits on 20 acres that border the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Florida's Intracoastal Waterway on the other. In 2018, Forbes valued the Mar-a-Lago estate at USD 160 million. Trump keeps a section of the estate private for his family's personal use.

In early June, a handful of investigators made a rare visit to the property seeking more information about potentially classified material from Trump's time in the White House that had been taken to Florida.

Under the Presidential Records Act, documents received and sent by the president are required to be preserved by the office.

Meanwhile, Republican leaders rallied around Trump, their party's de facto leader, who is weighing another run for president in 2024.

Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel claimed in a statement that Democrats "continually weaponise the bureaucracy against Republicans.

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, a California Republican, wrote that he had "seen enough."



"Attorney General (Merrick) Garland: preserve your documents and clear your calendar. I've seen enough. The Department of Justice has reached an intolerable state of weaponised politicisation," the Republican leader wrote.

But the chair of the House Oversight Committee, which is investigating Trump's handling of documents, called on the Justice Department to "fully investigate" the former President's handling of information.

"Presidents have a solemn duty to protect America's national security, and allegations that former President Trump put our security at risk by mishandling classified information warrant the utmost scrutiny," Democratic Representative Carolyn Maloney of New York said.

"Although details of today's actions at Mar-a-Lago are still emerging, it is clear that the Department of Justice must fully investigate President Trump's potentially grave mishandling of classified information."



Trump is facing another investigation for allegedly helping incite the mob on January 6, 2021, with a web of lies about the 2020 US presidential election being marred by widespread voter fraud.

Trump is the only US President to have never held political office prior to his presidency.

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Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has denied involvement in a scandal related to the tapping of an opposition leader's phone by the country's National Intelligence Service (EYP) over several months.

"What was done, may have been legal, but it was wrong. I knew nothing about it, and obviously I would never have approved anything like this," he said in a statement on Monday.

Mitsotakis added that if he had been aware of these activities, he would not have allowed them.

Nikos Androulakis, head of the social-democratic opposition PASOK party and a member of the European Parliament, has laid a charge against persons unknown relating to the phone tap.

The investigations have revealed that his mobile phone had for months been tapped by the EYP.

The revelations led to the resignations on August 5 of EYP commander Panagiotis Kontoleon, and Grigoris Dimitriadis, head of Mitsotakis's secretariat.

The rime Minister has announced an overhaul of the EYP in order to strengthen its accountability, and improve supervision of the parliament through the Institutions and Transparency Committee.

--IANS

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Humanitarians in are targeting more than 16 million people for aid while more than 1.7 million people face flooding, a UN spokesman said.

The worst in 40 years brought worsening levels of malnutrition to the millions, said Stephane Dujarric, Chief spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, on Monday. The also killed more than 3.5 million livestock.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that more than 21 million people face acute food insecurity following four failed rainy seasons across Somalia, northern Kenya, and southern and eastern . Experts say a dry fifth rainy season this autumn is likely.

"At the same time, parts of face a risk of flooding in the coming weeks," Dujarric added.

"In northern Ethiopia, humanitarian deliveries continue in the Tigray region, but our ability to distribute it has been limited by shortage of fuel and cash."

However, he cited two positive developments: the first was 12 tankers carrying 600,000 litres of fuel arriving in the war-torn, northernmost region of Tigray on Wednesday. The second was food aid distributed in three hard-to-reach districts of the Amhara region's Wag Hamra zone for the first time in more than a year, Xinhua news agency reported.

The spokesman said about 2 million litres of fuel are needed each month to sustain humanitarian operations in Tigray. The food for 30,000 people reaching the challenging Amhara districts arrived in the area on July 27. Delivery of additional food assistance, including nutrition and health supplies, is planned.

In the first half of this year, more than 13 million men, women and children received humanitarian assistance in drought-affected areas, including more than 7 million people receiving food aid, he added.

The spokesman said that the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation reported that it is scaling up the urgent procurement of fertilisers to help farmers in Tigray sow their fields in a critical planting season. The operation results from a $10 million loan recently approved by the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund.

--IANS

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Deadly clashes erupted between rival security units across various residential neighbourhoods of the Yemeni oil-rich province of Shabwa, a government official told Xinhua.

Security units loyal to the Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated Islah Party launched an attack against the rival security forces of the government in Ataq, the provincial capital, triggering intense street battles, the local government source said on Monday on condition of anonymity.

The ongoing street clashes in Shabwa have left 18 people killed and more than 25 injured, according to local medical sources.

"The infighting occurred following the appointment of a new commander to lead the special security units loyal to Islah," the source said.

The local government authorised the deployment of army troops from the elite southern Giants Brigades to secure state institutions in the province and confront the rebellion, according to the official.

Hours after the infighting, the Aden-based Presidential Leadership Council held an extraordinary meeting, renewing its full support for the Governor of Shabwa and ordering the special security units to immediately stop the clashes, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Yemeni Council issued new decisions that included dismissing a number of security and military leaders accused of organising a rebellion against the local authorities in Shabwa, according to the state-run Saba news agency.

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 out of the capital Sanaa.

The war has killed thousands of people, displaced 4 million, and pushed the poorest Arab country to the brink of starvation.

--IANS

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paid tribute to the victims of the US atomic bombing 77 years ago on Aug 9, with the mayor saying Russia's war on Ukraine showed the world that another nuclear attack is not just a worry but "a tangible and present crisis".

Mayor Tomihisa Taue, in his speech Tuesday at the Peace Park, said nuclear weapons can be used as long as they exist, and their elimination is the only way to save the future of humankind.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine and threat of nuclear weapons use came only a month after it and four other nuclear powers pledged in a statement that nuclear war should never be fought, Taue noted.

This has shown the world that the use of nuclear weapons is not a groundless fear but a tangible and present crisis, he said. The belief that nuclear weapons can be possessed not for actual use but for deterrence is a fantasy, nothing more than a mere hope."



The United States dropped the world's first atomic bomb on Hiroshima on Aug 6, 1945, destroying the city and killing 140,000 people. It dropped a second bomb three days later on Nagasaki, killing another 70,000. Japan surrendered on Aug. 15, ending World War II and Japan's nearly half-century of aggression in Asia.

Participants, including diplomats from nuclear states, observed a moment of silence at 11:02 am, the moment the bomb exploded above the southern Japanese city on Aug. 9, 1945.

Although Russia last week tried to roll back on Putin's warning, fears of a third atomic bombing have grown amid Russia's threats of nuclear attack since its war on Ukraine began in February. Russia last week shelled a Ukrainian city close to Europe's largest nuclear plant.

Japanese officials worry that the conflict may embolden China to be even more assertive in East Asia, and the government is pushing to further step up its military capability and spending.

Japan renounces its own possession, production or hosting of nuclear weapons, but as a US ally Japan hosts 50,000 American troops and is protected by the US nuclear umbrella. Still, Russia's has prompted some hawkish lawmakers in the governing party have also proposed a possibility of nuclear sharing with the United States.

Taue said discussions about nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation over the past decades have not been put into practice and trust in the 1968 Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons has become tenuous.

We must recognize that ridding ourselves of nuclear weapons is the only realistic way of protecting the Earth and humankind's future, Taue said.

Taue urged Japan's government to exercise leadership in pursuing peace diplomacy that does not rely on nuclear deterrence.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said, Even though we face a severe security environment, we must pursue the history of non-nuclear use and make the last place of nuclear attack.

As in Hiroshima, Russia and its ally Belarus were not invited to Tuesday's memorial event in Nagasaki.

As of March, 118,935 survivors are certified as eligible for government medical support, according to the health and welfare ministry. Their average age now exceeds 84.

Many survivors of the bombings have lasting injuries and illnesses resulting from the explosions and radiation exposure and have faced discrimination in Japan.

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launched an Iranian satellite into orbit on Tuesday from southern Kazakhstan, just three weeks after President Vladimir Putin and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei pledged to work together against the West.

The remote Khayyam sensing satellite, named after the 11th Century Persian poet and philosopher Omar Khayyam, was launched by a Russian Soyuz rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and entered orbit successfully, Russias space agency said. Irans space agency has received the first telemetry data sent from the satellite, the official IRNA news agency said. Tehran has rejected claims the satellite could be used by Moscow to boost its intelligence capabilities in Ukraine, saying will have full control and operation over it from day one.

The Washington Post reported last week that U.S. officials are concerned by the fledgling space cooperation between and Iran, fearing the satellite will not only help in Ukraine but also provide unprecedented capabilities to monitor potential military targets in Israel and the wider middle east.

says the satellite is designed for scientific research including radiation and environmental monitoring for agricultural purposes.

Russia has sought to deepen its ties with Iran since Feb. 24, when the Kremlin ordered tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine, prompting the United States and its allies to impose the most severe sanctions in recent history.

In July, Putin visited Iran in his first trip outside the former Soviet Union since the start of Russias military campaign in Ukraine.

While there, Khamenei told Putin that Tehran and Moscow needed to stay vigilant against Western deception.

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CANBERRA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Australia's national science agency has revealed that it named and described more than 100 new species over the last year in a "win for biodiversity".

Researchers from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in Canberra identified 139 new species and described them in scientific journals over the last 12 months.

The tally consists of 131 insects and invertebrates, four fish, three plants and one frog species, which include a species of ant that protects one of Australia's rarest butterfly species.

According to the CSIRO, approximately 25 percent of Australia's species are known to science.

David Yeates, a CSIRO entomologist, said officially describing species was key to protecting Australia's biodiversity.

A newly named ant, Anonychomyrma inclinata, was found to play a crucial role in the survival of the endangered Bulloak Jewel Butterfly, Hypochrysops piceatus.

"The ecological requirements for this beautiful butterfly are very narrow, which is probably why it is so rare," Yeates said in a media release.

"The ant species we've now named needs to be nesting in a mature bulloak. The butterfly caterpillars live under bark and are carried to soft bulloak leaves to feed at night by 'babysitter' ants. The ants protect the caterpillars from predators and receive a sugary gift from the caterpillars, a win-win for both species."

The new Silverspot Weedfish was described from only two known specimens collected by a CSIRO research vessel in 2000 and 2005.

"The Weedfish were found 55 to 100 metres below sea level, which is interesting because they live deeper than other known members of the genus," CSIRO scientist John Pogonoski said.

CSIRO said that the newly-named species also highlight the importance of collaboration, with most scientific papers involving authors from multiple scientific collections and universities across Australia and overseas. 
Polls opened Tuesday in Kenya's unusual presidential election, where a longtime opposition leader who is backed by the outgoing president faces the deputy president who styles himself as the outsider.

The election is considered close, and East Africa's economic hub could see a presidential runoff for the first time. Hundreds of voters lined up hours ahead of polls opening in some locations.

The top candidates are Raila Odinga, who has vied for the presidency for a quarter-century, and deputy president William Ruto, who has stressed his journey from a humble childhood to appeal to millions of struggling Kenyans long accustomed to political dynasties.

In moments like this is when the mighty and the powerful come to the realization that it is the simple and the ordinary that eventually make the choice, a smiling Ruto told journalists after becoming one of the first voters. I look forward to our victorious day. He urged Kenyans to be peaceful and respect others' choices.

More than 22 million people are registered to vote in this election in which economic issues could be of greater importance than the ethnic tensions that have marked past votes with sometimes deadly results.

Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, the son of Kenya's first president, cut across the usual ethnic lines by backing longtime rival Odinga after their bitter 2017 election contest. But both Odinga and Ruto have chosen running mates from the country's largest ethnic group, the Kikuyu.

Odinga has made history by choosing running mate Martha Karua, the first woman to be a leading contender for the deputy presidency. Make your voice heard, she said after voting early in a knitted cap, a sign of the unusually cold weather in parts of the country.

Rising food and fuel prices, huge government debt, high unemployment and widespread corruption mean economic issues are at the center of an election in which unregulated campaign spending highlighted the country's inequality.

Kenyans are hoping for a peaceful vote. Elections can be exceptionally troubled, as in 2007 when the country exploded after Odinga claimed the vote had been stolen from him and more than 1,000 people were killed. In 2017, the high court overturned the election results, a first in Africa, after Odinga challenged them over irregularities. He then boycotted the new vote and proclaimed himself the people's president, bringing allegations of treason. A handshake between him and Kenyatta calmed the crisis.

This is likely Odinga's last try at age 77, and Kenyans and election observers will be watching to see how his often passionate supporters react to the results and any allegations of rigging.

Official results must be announced within a week of the election, but impatience is expected if they don't come before this weekend. The underfunded Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission is under pressure to ensure an untroubled vote.

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A US-based Indian organisation that caters to the interests of the Hindu-American community on Monday endorsed former UK Chancellor to become Britain's first Indian-origin Prime Minister.

The race to elect a new Conservative Party leader, who will take charge as early next month, heated up on Monday as the two finalists Sunak and Liz Truss clashed over their proposals to tackle the soaring cost-of-living crisis in the country.

The Republican Hindu Coalition (RHC), an organisation in the US that was founded in 2015 to be the unique bridge between the Hindu-American community and Republican policymakers and leaders, said it supports Sunak to be the next as he embraces their values and principles.

We endorse Sunak not just because he is a Hindu but like the Republican Hindu Coalition, Sunak fully embraces our core values and its founding principles: The Four F's: Free Enterprise with Limited Smaller Government, Fiscal Discipline, Family Values and Firm Foreign Policy - Sunak is a true champion of the conservative movement, RHC said in a statement.

Supporters of Sunak are urging Conservative Party members, who will be voting in postal and online ballots during the course of this month, to judge the 42-year-old by his record of supporting families through the COVID-19 pandemic crisis as the UK Chancellor.

has my and the RHC's full endorsement. As the UK's new PM, Sunak will have extraordinary success. Not only is Sunak good for the United Kingdom but also its strategic allies, the United States and India, said Shalabh Kumar, the founder, chairman and CEO of the organisation.

We encourage all conservatives as well as one billion Hindus all over the world to do their best to provide full support for Rishi's candidacy for Prime Minister of UK, within the limits of British NEC rules, he added.

As a devout Hindu, Sunak is a regular at the temple where he was born in Southampton and became the first Chancellor to light Diwali diyaas outside his office-residence of 11 Downing Street in November 2020.

His daughters, Anoushka and Krishna, are also rooted in the Indian culture and he recently shared how Anoushka performed Kuchipudi with her classmates for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations at Westminster Abbey.

Sunak had to face attacks from his opponents over his record as Chancellor until his resignation in July precipitated the exit of his former boss, caretaker Boris Johnson.

(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 Biden administration said Monday it was shipping its biggest yet direct delivery of weapons to as that country prepares for a potentially decisive counteroffensive in the south against Russia, sending $1 billion in rockets, ammunition and other material to from Defense Department stockpiles.

The new U.S. arms shipment would further strengthen as it mounts the counteroffensive, which analysts say for the first time could allow Kyiv to shape the course of the rest of the war, now at the half-year mark.

Kyiv aims to push Russian troops back out of Kherson and other southern territory near the Dnipro River. Russia in recent days was moving troops and equipment in the direction of the southern port cities to stave off the Ukrainian counteroffensive.

At every stage of this conflict, we have been focused on getting the Ukrainians what they need, depending on the evolving conditions on the battlefield, Colin Kahl, undersecretary of defense for policy, said Monday in announcing the new weapons shipment.

The new U.S. aid includes additional rockets for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS, as well as thousands of artillery rounds, mortar systems, Javelins and other ammunition and equipment. Military commanders and other U.S. officials say the HIMARS and artillery systems have been crucial in Ukraine's fight to block Russia from taking more ground.

While the U.S. has already provided 16 HIMARS to Ukraine, Kahl said the new package does not include additional ones.

These are not systems that we assess you need in the hundreds to have the type of effects needed, Kahl said. These are precision-guided systems for very particular types of targets and the Ukrainians are using them as such.

He declined to say how many of the precision-guided missile systems for the HIMARS were included in Monday's announcement, but said the U.S. has provided multiple hundreds of them in recent weeks.

The latest announcement brings the total U.S. security assistance committed to Ukraine by the Biden administration to more than $9 billion.

In his nightly video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the for the package, and said 100% of it we will use to protect freedom, our common freedom.

Until now, the largest single security assistance package announcement was for $1 billion on June 15. But that aid included $350 million in presidential drawdown authority, and another $650 million under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which provides funding for training, equipment and other security needs that can be bought from other countries or companies.

Monday's package allows the U.S. to deliver weapons systems and other equipment more quickly since it takes them off the Defense Department shelves.

In addition to the rockets for the HIMARS, it includes 75,000 rounds of 155mm artillery, 20 mortar systems and 20,000 rounds for them, 1,000 shoulder-mounted Javelin rockets, and other arms, explosives and medical equipment.

For the last four months of the war, Russia has concentrated on capturing the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, where pro-Moscow separatists have controlled some territory as self-proclaimed republics for eight years. Russian forces have made gradual headway in the region while launching missile and rocket attacks to curtail the movements of Ukrainian fighters elsewhere.

Kahl estimated that Russian forces have sustained up to 80,000 deaths and injuries in the fighting, though he did not break down the figure with an estimate of forces killed.

He said the Russian troops have managed to gain incremental ground in eastern Ukraine, although not in recent weeks. But that has come at extraordinary cost to the Russian military because of how well the Ukrainian military has performed and all the assistance that the Ukrainian military has gotten. And I think now, conditions in the east have essentially stabilized and the focus is really shifting to the south.

The new funding is being paid for through $40 billion in economic and security aid for Ukraine approved by Congress in May.

This is the 18th time the Pentagon has provided equipment from Defense Department stocks to Ukraine since August 2021.

The U.S. and allies still are evaluating whether to supply aircraft to Ukraine, Kahl said.

It's not inconceivable that western aircraft down the road could be part of the mix, he said.

Zelenskyy early in the war made near-daily appeals for warplanes, calling them essential to protecting Ukraine's skies.

The U.S. and some other NATO countries feared that could draw them into more direct involvement with Ukraine's war against Russia, and have not provided Western aircraft.

Separately Monday, the Treasury Department said it was sending $3 billion more in direct economic assistance to Ukraine. That's part of a previously approved $7.5 billion in economic assistance, with $1.5 billion yet to be disbursed.

(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.)
Talks in Vienna to revive the have ended with diplomats from the countries involved returning to their capitals with a provisional text for a new agreement that it is hoped will prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.

"You have to say yes or no," a senior European Union representative said in Vienna, adding that there was nothing left to negotiate and describing the text as a "very good compromise for all parties", reports dpa news agency.

The countries involved, Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the US, are expected to respond "in very, very few weeks", the diplomat said.

The parties have been seeking to resolve differences over the lifting of sanctions on in return for placing restrictions on the country's nuclear programme once more.

The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, known as the nuclear deal, collapsed when the US withdrew unilaterally in 2018 under the presidency of Donald Trump.

Since then, Iran has proceeded with uranium enrichment leading to fears that it is close to producing a nuclear weapon.

Tehran has consistently argued that it only intends to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

During a visit to Israel, US President Joe Biden issued a joint statement with Prime Minister Yair Lapid repeating Washington's commitment never to allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon.

The US would use "all elements of its national power" to prevent this, the statement said.

--IANS

ksk/

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The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has made Rs 67,619.72 crore from its foray into (ETFs).

It had invested a total of Rs 1.59 trillion, which is now worth Rs 2.27 trillion, according to the data disclosed in Parliament on August 8.

The are modelled on equity indices, including the S&P BSE Sensex, the Nifty50, and those tracking listed public sector companies.

Equity typically look to closely track the returns of benchmark indices. They do not seek to actively buy and sell their holdings to generate higher returns like an actively managed fund. They are considered a low-cost alternative to more expensive active funds, and do not have the same risk of underperforming the benchmark index.

The had begun to invest in equity since August 2015. The latest (LS) reply provided data over recent years. It revealed that around Rs 1.2 trillion of the overall Rs 1.59 trillion worth of have come since 2019-20.

The has invested an average of nearly Rs 36,000 crore every year in ETFs. It has already invested Rs 12,199.26 crore in the first three months of 2022-23.

Financial advisors suggested higher allocations amid pushback since it would result in a more sustainable savings model for the retirement body.

Suresh Sadagopan, founder at Ladder7 Financial Advisories, said that a long-term investor like the EPF can afford to take the risk of equity exposure. Volatility is often short term, and the higher risk is compensated for higher returns, he said. He pointed out that global retirement and pension funds even take exposure to stock in foreign countries, and so a 15 per cent allocation to local equities is fairly conservative, he observed.

They should consider higher amounts, he said.

Kartik Jhaveri, director, Transcend Consulting (India), said that the has often been giving fixed returns that do not necessarily reflect the yield on its underlying portfolio. Higher allocations to equity can help bridge this gap, he said. He also pointed out that retirement schemes globally provide greater autonomy to individual accounts. This allows them more flexibility in terms of where they want to allocate their capital.

An analysis of returns over the past five years shows that equity have given higher returns than debt.

The had average five-year returns of 18.2 per cent as of March. It was 17.8 per cent for the Nifty50. Government debt yield as of end-March has been around 6.8 per cent on average over the past five years. It was 7.7 per cent for the highest-rated corporates, based on the Bloomberg FIMMDA AAA Corporate data. The amount is even higher for slightly lower-rated companies, at 8.4 per cent, based on the Bloomberg FIMMDA AA Corporate data. The Nifty CPSE Index, which tracks public sector companies, gave returns of 4.6 per cent in the same period.

The EPFO was reportedly looking to raise the allocation to equities, according to recent reports. A question on the same was part of the LS query which sought to understand whether the government was doing enough to ensure adequate precautions to secure the interests of pensioners due to a volatile where there is no guarantee of return on investment, and any move it might be taking towards higher allocations.

No such proposal is under consideration of the government, said the response.
By Alex Lawler

LONDON (Reuters) - Oil rose over $1 a barrel on Tuesday, reversing an earlier decline, after said oil exports to via the southern leg of the Druzhba pipeline had been suspended since early August, reviving concern about tight supply.

Russian pipeline monopoly Transneft said had suspended oil flows via the pipeline leg because Western sanctions had prevented a payment from Moscow for transit fees from going through.

"Not that we need it at this point but it's another reminder of how tight the market is and how sensitive the price is to supply disruptions, particularly those from Russia," said Craig Erlam of brokerage OANDA.

Brent crude was up $1.28, or 1.3%, to $97.93 a barrel at 1136 GMT, after earlier falling as low as $94.90. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained $1.18, or 1.3%, to $91.94.

The Druzhba development comes as supply worries had been abating amid growing concern about a recession. Earlier, oil was under pressure from progress in talks to revive the Iran nuclear accord, which would allow higher Iranian oil exports.

Tamas Varga of oil broker PVM said the pipeline halt and general scepticism surrounding the Iranian nuclear deal had likely prompted the rally. "Having said that, the suspension should really have a short-term impact, in my view," he said.

The European Union on Monday put forward a "final" text to revive the 2015 deal. A senior EU official said a final decision on the proposal, which needs U.S. and Iranian approval, was expected within "very, very few weeks".

Talks have dragged on for months without a deal. Still, Iran's crude exports, according to tanker trackers, are at least 1 million barrels per day below their rate in 2018 when then U.S. President Donald Trump exited the nuclear agreement, so an agreement could allow a sizeable boost in supply.

Oil soared earlier in the year as Russia's invasion of added to supply concerns, with Brent hitting $139 in March, close to its all-time high.

Brent fell as low as $92.78 on Friday, its lowest since February, as the Bank of England's warning on Thursday of a drawn-out downturn intensified fears of slowing fuel use.

Coming into view is the latest round of weekly U.S. oil supply reports, firstly from the American Petroleum Institute at 2030 GMT. Analysts expect a small 400,000-barrel drop in crude inventories. [EIA/S]

(Additional reporting by Sonali Paul and Emily Chow; Editing by Louise Heavens and Mark Potter)

(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.)
have increased scrutiny of investors domiciled in Sikkim, following reports of illegal routing of investments through the Northeast state to evade taxes.

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has directed its trading members (brokers) to re-verify and certify investors who have declared their permanent address as . Further, brokers have been told to maintain a vigil on the location of devices used by Sikkim-based clients for trading to ensure these are genuine investors from the region.

Trading members are required to send the identity and address proof of all the newly onboarded clients (irrespective of whether the permanent account number has been submitted by the account holder or not) to the exchange, where the correspondence or permanent address of the client is Sikkim, NSE said in a circular.

Brokers have been asked to take corrective action in case of any deviation in records within 10 days. Failing which, accounts of these clients will be immediately suspended.

Verification has also been ordered for existing clients based in .

For existing unique client codes (UCC) having correspondence or permanent address as Sikkim, the trading members are required to carry out a know-your-customer (KYC) re-confirmation exercise (i.e., verification of existing KYC documents available, against the details uploaded in the UCC system of the exchange), the circular further said.

The KYC re-confirmation has to be carried out by a broker-appointed auditor, who should be any qualified chartered accountant or a company secretary or a cost and management accountant holding a certificate of practice.

The deadline for re-verification and certification has been set as September 15.

In instances where adverse observations are highlighted by the auditor, the trading member will give a 30-day notice to the client for rectification of records. In case the client fails to take corrective action within 30 days, the trading member shall mark such account as closed with immediate effect, after intimation to the client, the circular said.

Currently, state capital Gangtok or other cities are not among the top 20 cities that account for the highest cash market volumes.

Broking industry players said the region could be misused by a few unscrupulous entities and the problem isnt as widespread. The action taken by could be more precautionary, they added.

Last month, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted searches at eight locations in Sikkim, Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai to crack down on availing of stamp duty exemption illegally. The issue came to light after trading volumes at the MCX showed disproportionate trading volumes from Sikkim, which has lax income-tax (I-T) laws, compared to other states in the country.

The ED has initiated a money laundering probe on the basis of a first information report (FIR) dated May 17 against unknown persons and companies. The ED froze about Rs 4.65 crore from the bank accounts of brokers, who allegedly misused the route.

It has been alleged in the said FIR that the disproportionate data in MCX trading from is highly doubtful and some limited liability partner companies and private individuals/traders from other states of India are doing high-frequency MCX trading  either using the identity of Sikkim residents or using the colocation of Sikkim illegitimately for taking undue advantage of the I-T and stamp duty exemption given to the people of Sikkim, the ED had said in a press statement on July 13.




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With a total revenue potential of Rs 4000 cr in next 4-5 years

Brigade Enterprises has signed definitive agreements for prime land parcels in Chennai and Bengaluru, which have a total revenue potential of Rs 4000 crore in the next 4-5 years.

The agreement to purchase the Mount Road Property in Chennai from the TVS Group has a potential 1 million sft of mixed used development comprising of office, retail and residential. The Bengaluru joint development property located close to the international schools, near Sarjapur Road has a development potential of over 2 million sft of residential apartments.

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Five bills were passed by both houses of Parliament

The Monsoon Session, 2022 of the Parliament which commenced on the 18th of July 2022 was adjourned sine die on the 8th of August 2022. The Session provided 16 sittings spread over a period of 22 days.

The Session, which was originally scheduled to have 18 sittings from 18th July to 12th August, was curtailed due to completion of essential Government Business and demand of members in view of two gazetted and the Parliamentary holidays ahead.

During the Session 6 Bills were introduced in Lok Sabha. 7 Bills were passed by Lok Sabha and 5 Bills were passed by Rajya Sabha. One Bill was withdrawn with the leave of Lok Sabha. Total number of Bills passed by both Houses of the Parliament during the Session is 5.

The Bills passed by both Houses during the Session are: - The Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022; - The Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Amendment Bill, 2022; - The Indian Antarctica Bill, 2022; - The National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021; and - The Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2022.

In the Lok Sabha, one Short Duration Discussion under Rule 193 was held on price rise. In the Rajya Sabha, one Short Duration Discussion under Rule 176, was held on rising prices of essential items.

The productivity of Lok Sabha was approximately 48% and that of Rajya Sabha was approximately 44%.

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JAKARTA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia is preparing for alternatives to replace wheat whose supply chain has been disrupted by conflicts in Ukraine, the Agriculture Ministry said on Tuesday.

Ismail Wahab, cereal director at the directorate general of food crops of the ministry, said the main alternative is sorghum, which has the same nutrition and is still in the same family as wheat, and can be cultivated on land in Indonesia.

"Sorghum is a great alternative, also gluten-free so it is healthier," Wahab said.

The government is intensifying the planting of sorghum in West Nusa Tenggara and East Nusa Tenggara on an area of 14,481 hectares with a production of 52,500 tons per year, a number that will increase as the land area expands to 55,000 hectares next year.

Other alternatives are cassava and sago which are widely grown on agricultural land in Indonesia.

Indonesia imported more than 11 million tons of wheat in 2021, said Statistics Indonesia.

Indonesia's main wheat supplying country is Australia, while other countries are Ukraine, Canada, Argentina and the United States. 
In a day of fast moving political developments Bihar's mercurial Chief Minister has split with ally BJP for a second time in eight years and is likely to meet Governor Phagu Chauhan later in the day, sources close to the development said.

Though no official announcements have been made, senior leader Upendra Kushwaha in a tweet congratulated Kumar for leading a "new coalition in new form," implicitly acknowledging the split and embracing the RJD-led 'Mahagathbandhan' (Grand Alliance) to continue in office. The meeting with Governor Chauhan is scheduled for 4 pm, said sources.

A meeting of the RJD-led Grand Alliance, comprising the Left and the Congress, also took place at Rabri Devi's house, across the street from the chief minister's residence where all the MLAs are said to have signed a letter of support to Kumar.

Leader of the opposition is likely to visit the CM's residence to hand over the letter of support any time.

The CM is understood to have told party legislators and MPs, at a meeting he convened at his official residence, that he had been driven against the wall by the BJP which tried to weaken his JD(U), first by propping up Chirag Paswan's rebellion and later through the party's former national president RCP Singh.

Singh was made a cabinet minister at the Centre without Kumar's explicit agreement. Consequently, when his term as a Rajya Sabha member ended, the JD(U) refused to give him another term as an MP, thus ending his stint as cabinet minister as well.

Following this, rumours of a split in the JD(U) engineered by Singh's supporters surfaced.

Relations between the BJP and the JD(U) have been worsening for quite some time in the wake of disagreements over a host of issues including caste census, population control and the Agnipath' defence recruitment scheme.

CPIML (Liberation) general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya had told PTI on Monday the crux of the row between JD(U) and BJP also stemmed from the recent statement by J P Nadda, president of the saffron party, who said regional parties have no future.

The BJP, meanwhile, has gone into a huddle at the residence of Deputy CM Tarkishore Prasad, where all ministers belonging to the party besides state president Sanjay Jaiswal and other senior leaders are also present.

BJP sources said they will wait till makes the first move.

In the state assembly, which has an effective strength of 242, requiring 121 MLAs for a majority, the has the highest number of 79 MLAs followed by the BJP (77) and the JD(U) with 44.

The JD(U) also enjoys the support of four MLAs of former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha and an Independent.

The Congress has 19 MLAs while the CPIML(L) has 12 and CPI and CPI(M) have two each.

Besides, one MLA belongs to Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM.

(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.)
Members of both houses of Parliament and state legislature, belonging to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JD(U), converged here on Tuesday to attend a meeting at his official residence, amid speculations of a major political move by the veteran leader, senior party functionaries said.

The meeting is scheduled to commence at 11 AM.

While the outcome will be known once the meeting is over, more than one of the prospective attendees denied the party's ties with the BJP having worsened to an extent to call for a realignment.

Our party had held many such meetings of MPs and MLAs in the past. We have been told that the current meeting has been called to discuss organisational matters. Never heard about any major crisis in the NDA," said Ram Nath Thakur, a Rajya Sabha member, low key but known to enjoy proximity to the chief minister by virtue of being the son of late Karpoori Thakur, the latter's political mentor.

Another confidant of Kumar, Leshi Singh, who is an MLA and a minister in his cabinet, said, I was away for the last four or five days but I have an idea of how things have been. There does not seem to be any major crisis facing the NDA government. It goes without saying, though, that the party will abide by any decision taken by the chief minister.

Meanwhile, MLAs of the opposition RJD, the largest party in the state assembly, have also been commanded by their leader Tejashwi Yadav to remain present at a meeting which will be held at his mother Rabri Devi's Circular Road bungalow, a stone's throw from the CM's Anney Marg residence.

Chetan Anand, a young MLA who is serving his first term, said, "Rumours of political realignment have been afloat for a couple of years. Let us not make any rash assumptions. Once the party leadership takes any decision, it will be definitely made known to all.

(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 (CM) on Tuesday broke the alliance between his party, the Janata Dal (United), or JD(U), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging conspiracy by the BJP to break the JD(U) and resigned as CM. He reached out to the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other Opposition parties, including the Congress, which have agreed to support him.



Nitish and Tejashwi Yadav will take oath as chief minister and deputy CM, respectively, at 2 pm on Wednesday, officials said.

All Opposition parties, except for the Communist Party of India (MarxistLeninist), or CPI (ML), will join the government, adding up to 164 Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in a House of 243. In a virtually bloodless coup, Nitish, whose party has just 45 MLAs, not only swapped alliance partners, but also became a candidate for a national role in the Opposition in one fell stroke, with his party colleague Upendra Kushwaha saying: Hasten ahead, Nitishji, the nation awaits you.

On Tuesday morning, Nitish called a meeting of all elected representatives of the JD(U) and said he pre-empted a conspiracy by the BJP to break his party.

He did not speak for long. But we told him the BJP has been deriding us at every stage. Around 25 MLAs spoke and each one said he should break the alliance, said a JD(U) MLA who attended the meeting.

Nitish then met RJD leaders, including Tejashwi Yadav, to get down to the real nitty-gritty of further government formation. He then met the Governor and handed over his resignation as CM. With his resignation, the entire Bihar Council of Ministers  including all BJP ministers  were deemed to have quit.

All Opposition MLAs have been asked to stay in Patna for the next 72 hours. A session of the Assembly is expected to be called in the next few days where the JD(U) legislature party will propose Nitish as CM again  a claim that has the written support (letter with the Governor) of 164 MLAs.

Nitishs new alliance partners are no strangers to him: he has been associated with the RJD and was in alliance with the party until five years ago. But he will retain the top job.

He has certainly not changed alliance partners to crown Tejashwi as CM, RJD leader Shivanand Tiwari told Business Standard, adding, But we are placing no conditions. We believe he will be fair.

Tejashwi is expected to get the Home portfolio that Nitish had kept with him in the BJP alliance government. Earlier, Tejashwi had held the Public Works Department portfolio. Every party will get ministership in proportion to its strength. Effectively, this means Nitish will be presiding over a government that will be dominated by the RJD.

The new governments biggest priority will be to replace the Speaker Vijay Kumar Sinha (BJP) with one of its own, possibly from the Congress. Sinha and Nitish have had running battles  one of the reasons that influenced the parting with the BJP.

Veteran Socialist Bhakta Charan Das, sent by the Congress as observer, said: Nitish has left the BJP. That is enough for us. We will give him unconditional support. This is an opportunity for dialogue and further possibilities.

Meanwhile, the BJP held its own meetings at the residence of Deputy CM Tarkishor Sinha. Home Minister Amit Shah called on Nitish and spoke to him for six/seven minutes.

Sanjay Jaiswal, state president of the Bihar BJP, told Business Standard that the BJP will sit in Opposition, but will win a majority in the next election.

It is completely against the mandate that BJP and JD(U) got. It was because of Prime Minister Narendra Modis generosity that although the BJP got 74 seats, Nitish, with a handful of seats, was able to become CM. He quit the Grand Alliance in 2017 because there were allegations of corruption. At that time, Lalan Singh was the one who had disclosed the mall-related land scam. Where are those charges now? asked Jaiswal.

Dipankar Bhattacharya, the national general secretary of CPI (ML), said the party will support Nitish without joining the government. Bihar should inspire a broader and more effective social and political realignment of forces against the BJPs game plan of concentrating all powers and turning India into a single-party state. The Bihar incident will have a greater impact against the BJP across India, he said.

The BJP wants to impose one-party rule in India and Shah has bragged about the BJP ruling India for the next four decades. This was a loud warning signal to BJPs allies. Tuesdays Bihar developments show Nitish has read the signals correctly, he observed.
The is likely to get four ministerial berths in the new government in as JD(U) leader snapped ties with the BJP and joined hands with the RJD-led alliance, sources said on Tuesday.

Sources said Kumar spoke to both president and soon after resigning from his post of chief minister. He is also learnt to have thanked the leadership for extending support in the formation of the new government.

Besides the four ministerial berths, the Congress has also sought the post of Speaker of the state assembly, but Kumar is not keen on giving that, sources said.

The Congress has 19 MLAs in the 243-member Assembly while the JD(U) has 45, RJD 79, CPI(ML) 12, and CPI and CPI(M) each have two legislators. The BJP has 77 MLAs in while the Jitan Ram Manjhi-led Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) has 4. The House has one Independent MLA while one seat is vacant.

Bihar Congress president Madan Mohan Jha and the party's in-charge of Bihar affairs Bhakta Charan Das were present at the meeting of Nitish Kumar, Tejashwi Yadav and leaders of other parties.

All 19 legislators of the Congress later attended a dinner meeting at the residence of the CLP leader in the Bihar assembly in Patna.

Top Congress leadership in Delhi however, remained silent on the developments in Bihar and confabulations over the new government formation in the state.

Earlier, the Congress said it will be a part of the non-BJP alliance in Bihar to help strengthen secular forces.

The party said that like in Maharashtra where it helped stitch together the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government by supporting the Shiv Sena which was ideologically different from it, it will align with Kumar who has been with them in the past.

"Ours is an ideological battle and we are not fighting for power. The Congress will support any non-BJP government and help strengthen secular forces," Congress general secretary Tariq Anwar earlier told PTI.

"Because is leaving the BJP and coming over, we will support him," he said, adding the Congress will take whatever steps that are needed to strengthen secular forces and defeat the communal forces.

Taking a swipe at the BJP, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh, tweeted, "In March 2020, Modi sarkar postponed COVID-19 lockdown to engineer the fall of the Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh. Now, it cuts short Parliament session knowing its coalition government in Bihar is going. What goes up must come down!"



A meeting of the RJD-led Grand Alliance, comprising the Left and the Congress, also took place at Rabri Devi's house, where all the MLAs are said to have signed a letter to support Kumar.

is understood to have told JD(U) legislators and MPs, at a meeting he convened at his official residence, that he had been driven against the wall by the BJP which tried to weaken his party, first by propping up Chirag Paswan's rebellion and later through its former national president RCP Singh.

Relations between the BJP and the JD(U) have been worsening in the wake of disagreements over a host of issues including caste census, population control and the 'Agnipath' defence recruitment scheme.

(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.)
With the ongoing speculations about a rift between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-Janata Dal (United) ie the alliance in Bihar, Janata Dal (United) leader and former Union Minister, Upendra Kushwaha, on Monday cleared the air of any tension between the allies and said that everything's fine in the alliance.

"Yes absolutely...everything is fine in the alliance..Today we are not making any claim but Nitish Kumar has all the qualifications to become the Prime Minister," said Kushwaha.

His remarks came in wake of the Chief Minister Nitish Kumar skipping the NITI Aayog meeting and JD-U leader RCP Singh tendering his resignation.

Taking a jibe at Singh, Kushwaha said, "RCP Singh's statement is very objectionable and shows his mental bankruptcy."

Earlier JD-U party chief Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan on Monday confirmed the news of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's call for a meeting of JD-U MLAs and MPs on Tuesday at 11 am amid speculation of a rift with ally Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Simultaneously, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has convened a meeting on Tuesday at 11 am to discuss political developments in .Earlier on Monday, the Congress party also convened a meeting of its legislature party in Bihar to contemplate the evolving political scenario in the state.

The rumours of a possible spilt between JD-U and BJP escalated after Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar skipped the NITI Aayog meeting.

While talking to mediapersons in Patna, JD-U President Lalan Singh said, "I read in the newspapers that RCP Singh has said that he was told by Union Home Minister Amit Shah that his name had been approved for ministership."

"He claimed to have taken oath after informing the CM. But this only confirms what we have been accusing RCP Singh of," the JD-U president added.

"Our charge is that RCP Singh became a minister as per his own free will. He has dropped the name of Shah. Does Shah belong to our party? Can the BJP decide which JD-U leader will become a minister," Lalan questioned.

Earlier on Sunday, Nitish Kumar skipped the NITI Aayog meeting held by Prime Minister Narendra Modi while RCP Singh announced his exit from the party after JD-U sought a reply on corruption allegations against him on Saturday.

(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.)
Delhi Chief Minister will be on a day-long visit to on Wednesday during which he will announce yet another "guarantee" of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to the people of the poll-bound state, a senior leader said on Tuesday.

Kejriwal, the convener, was in Gujarat, where Assembly polls are due by the year-end, over the last weekend and has been frequently touring various districts as part of a strategy to position his party as a contender for power in the state where the ruling and the opposition Congress have been the dominant political forces. "Kejriwalji will be visiting tomorrow (Wednesday). He will announce a new 'guarantee' for the people of at a town hall event in Ahmedabad," the party's National Joint General Secretary and Gujarat leader Isudan Gadhvi said at a press conference. Gadhvi said the new 'guarantee' will be for the benefit of "2.5 crore people" of Gujarat to be announced ahead of Rakshabandhan (to be celebrated on Thursday), but did not elaborate further. "People are very much enthusiastic about the guarantee of free electricity announced by Kejriwal (during earlier visit). Even workers are excited about this and are asking why the government did not provide them (people of Gujarat) such a relief," he said. Gadhvi said the BJP has become scared of such guarantees and therefore moved the Supreme Court against relief measures, referring to a petition filed in the SC on pre-poll announcements by political parties. The chief had visited Jamnagar and Bodeli in Chhota Udepur during his two-day tour on last Saturday and Sunday. On Sunday, he announced guarantees for the tribals of Gujarat, which included implementation of Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) (PESA) Act that gives special powers to Gram Sabhas (village councils) especially in management of natural resources. Kejriwal has also guaranteed jobs to the unemployed youth and Rs 3,000 per month allowance until they get a job. The Delhi CM has promised to involve the trading community in the decision-making process of the government and end 'raid raj.' His first pre-poll promise was that of providing free electricity. In an announcement made in Surat last month, Kejriwal said his party will provide free electricity up to 300 units per month to the people of Gujarat if voted to power in the state. This sop is already being provided to the people of Delhi and Punjab, both ruled by the Aam Aadmi Party.

(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 will expand his two-member ministry on Tuesday, 41 days after he took oath as the CM.

On June 30, Shinde was sworn in as the chief minister and Devendra Fadnavis took oath as deputy CM.

Shinde told reporters in Nanded on Monday that the ministry expansion is slated for Tuesday.

The ceremony will be held at the Raj Bhavan in south Mumbai at 11 am, an aide of Shinde told PTI on condition of anonymity.

The next round of expansion would take place later, he added.

Shinde, who emerged as a surprise choice for the top post after managing to take a major chunk of Shiv Sena MLAs with him following the rebellion in June, will have a difficult task to accommodate all of them in the ministry, sources said.

From the Shinde group, names of Bharat Gogawale and Shambhuraj Desai are doing the rounds.

From the BJP, state party chief Chandrakant Patil, Sudhir Mungantiwar, Girish Mahajan, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Suresh Khade and Atul Save are likely to be inducted, party sources said.

The CM has made seven visits to New Delhi in the last one month, and with every visit there was talk that the ministry expansion was round the corner.

Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Ajit Pawar said Shinde had promised a ministerial berth to every MLA who joined him.

Now Shinde is unable to fulfil his promise, hence the delay in cabinet expansion. The chief minister should disclose reasons for the delay, Pawar 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 on Tuesday fumed at yet another volte face by its old ally, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, accusing him of being a habitual betrayer who was pushing Bihar into the abyss of lawlessness and corruption by entering into a fresh alliance with the RJD.

In a statement issued after core committee meeting at the state headquarters, the party announced that it will stage massive (mahadharnas) against the betrayal by the JD(U) leader across all districts on Wednesday which will be followed by agitations at the block level a day later.

Reacting furiously to the development, senior leader Sushil Kumar Modi, who had served as Kumar's deputy for more than a decade and is considered as his most trusted man in the BJP, accused the former boss of telling blatant lie.

It is a blatant lie that had made RCP Singh a minister without the consent of Nitish ji. Another lie is that the was trying to split the JD(U). He was looking for an excuse to break ties. The BJP will return to power with a thumping majority in 2024," Modi tweeted.

Notably, Kumar had cited a unanimous sentiment in his JD(U) as the reason behind making the sudden move. His party's ties with the BJP, though dating back to the 1990s, barring a four years hiatus that began with his first breaking away in 2013, have been chequered.

However, in the recent past the two parties squabbled on a whole range of issues though the tipping point, according to JD(U) sources, came with alleged attempts of RCP Singh, a former national president who has for some time come to be seen as BJP's man, to split the party.

At a press conference here soon after Kumar met the governor, along with RJD's Tejashwi Yadav, former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad accused the chief minister of inconsistency in his beliefs.

You talk about communalism but you aligned with us in the 1990s when the Ayodhya movement was at its peak. You fought with us against Lalu Prasad on the issue of his involvement in fodder scam. In 2013, your personal dislike for Narendra Modi made you leave us and join hands with the RJD president, Prasad said.

You left the RJD in 2017 after Tejashwi Yadav's name cropped up in a corruption case. You are now pushing Bihar back into the era of lawlessness and corruption which you claimed credit for bringing the state out of, alleged the Patna Sahib MP.

Speaking at the same press conference, state BJP president Sanjay Jaiswal alleged that Kumar was a habitual betrayer ('aadatan dhokhebaaz') who will be punished by the people of Bihar for betraying the mandates of 2019 (Lok Sabha polls) and 2020 (assembly elections).

Kumar had, upon tendering his resignation before Governor Phagu Chauhan and staking claim to form a new government, spoken obliquely of the BJP's role in propping up RCP Singh against him though he was blunt in criticising the policy of social divisiveness, an obvious reference to Hindutva.

The 71-year-old had laughed off queries as to whether his move was aimed at realising prime ministerial ambitions, having in the past been seen as a potential rival to Narendra Modi.

Standing by his side, said, We leave it (prime Ministerial ambition) for him to decide but he deserves praise for taking the courageous decision to dump BJP on a day which marks the anniversary of the launch of Quit India Movement, a veritable fight against tyranny.

BJP president J P Nadda had the temerity to say all parties, except his, will be wiped out from the country. He uttered these words during his visit to the state recently. Bihar has answered the BJP back, asserted the young RJD leader.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
In a day of fast-moving political developments, Bihar's mercurial leader twice met Governor Phagu Chauhan, first to hand in his resignation as NDA chief minister and then after being elected leader of the RJD-led 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) to stake claim for the top job in the state once again.

His move which was a reversal of what happened in 2017 when he left the Mahagathbandhan to rejoin the NDA, left ally out in the cold for the second time in nine years.

During the first meeting with Chauhan, he informed him that the decision to sever ties with the NDA was taken by his party, the JD(U).

After meeting Chauhan, Kumar went to the residence of former chief minister Rabri Devi to confabulate with RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav.

Later, he called on the governor again and staked claim to form the government after getting the support of Mahagathbandhan constituents - the RJD, Left parties and the Congress.

He had deserted the NDA for the first time in 2013 after Narendra Modi became the coalition's Prime Ministerial candidate.

Earlier in the day, when a meeting a JD(U) meeting was going on, senior leader Upendra Kushwaha in a tweet congratulated Kumar for leading a "new coalition in new form," implicitly acknowledging the split and embracing the RJD-led 'Mahagathbandhan' (Grand Alliance) to continue in office.

A meeting of the RJD-led Grand Alliance, also comprising the Left and the Congress, took place at Rabri Devi's house, across the street from the chief minister's residence.

The CM is understood to have told party legislators and MPs that he had been driven against the wall by the which tried to weaken his JD(U), first by propping up Chirag Paswan's rebellion and later through the party's former national president RCP Singh.

Singh was made a cabinet minister at the Centre without Kumar's explicit agreement. Consequently, when his term as a Rajya Sabha member ended, the JD(U) refused to give him another term as an MP, thus ending his stint as cabinet minister as well.

Following this, rumours of a split in the JD(U) engineered by Singh's supporters surfaced.

Relations between the and the JD(U) have been worsening for quite some time in the wake of disagreements over a host of issues including caste census, population control and the Agnipath' defence recruitment scheme.

CPIML (Liberation) general secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya had told PTI on Monday the crux of the row between JD(U) and BJP also stemmed from the recent statement by J P Nadda, president of the saffron party, who said regional parties have no future.

The BJP, meanwhile, has gone into a huddle at the residence of Deputy CM Tarkishore Prasad, where all ministers belonging to the party besides state president Sanjay Jaiswal and other senior leaders are also present.

In the state Assembly, which has an effective strength of 242, requiring 121 MLAs for a majority, the RJD has the highest number of 79 MLAs followed by the BJP (77) and the JD(U) with 44.

The JD(U) also enjoys the support of four MLAs of former Chief Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha and an Independent.

The Congress has 19 MLAs while the CPIML(L) has 12 and CPI and CPI(M) have two each. Besides, one MLA belongs to Asaduddin Owaisi's AIMIM.

(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.)
resigns as Chief Minister of Bihar, breaks alliance with BJP

Chief Minister resigned on Tuesday breaking his alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Kumar, earlier in the day, held a meeting with the JD(U) leaders to discuss his next future political moves. He then sought time from Governor Phagu Chauhan. Read more

announces new security features, including leaving groups silently

users will be able to choose who can see if they are online, leave group chats without notifying other members, and prevent screenshots of 'view once' messages, the Meta-owned platform said on Tuesday.

The new features "provide users more privacy, more protection, and more control," said Mark Zuckerberg, chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of Meta Platforms, which also owns Facebook. The features start rolling out to all users this month. Read more

India's July fuel demand rises 6.1% year-on-year, reveals ministry data

India's fuel demand in July rose 6.1% year-on-year, data from the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) of the oil ministry showed on Monday.

Consumption of fuel, a proxy for oil demand, totalled 17.62 million tonnes in July, down 5.7% from 18.68 million tonnes in June. Read more

PM Modi's rise by Rs 26 lakh to Rs 2.23 crore; land holding donated

Prime Minister owns worth over Rs 2.23 crore, mostly as bank deposits, but has no immovable properties as he has donated his share in a piece of land in Gandhinagar, according to his latest disclosure about .

He has no investment in any bond, share or mutual funds, does not own any vehicle, but has four gold rings valued at Rs 1.73 lakh, according to his declaration updated till March 31. Read more
WELLINGTON, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The population of New Zealand's critically endangered flightless parrots, kakapo, have increased from 197 to 252 in the 2022 breeding season.

"There are now more of the endangered parrots than there have been for almost 50 years," Conservation Minister Poto Williams said in a statement on Tuesday.

The flightless, nocturnal parrot is a species unique to New Zealand. They breed only every two to four years when the island country's rimu trees, or "red pine", produce enough fruit.

During breeding seasons, the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Ngai Tahu, the principal Maori tribe of the South Island, aim to have as many kakapo chicks raised in nests as possible. They only intervene with hand-rearing when chicks are at risk.

This season 49 were raised in the nest and six were fully hand reared, Williams said, adding that the 55 chicks were added to the official population only when they reached 150 days old.

"The chicks generally get themselves in to high-risk situations, and occasionally need to be rescued from clumsy episodes, such as getting stuck in mud or getting their legs caught in trees," she said, adding that this has been the second biggest breeding season, leading to the highest number of birds since the 1970s.

The vision for kakapo is to grow their numbers and ensure they can live freely in a natural environment, said the minister. 
New Delhi [India], August 9 (ANI/PNN): Nature is at a tipping point. Today, each of us needs to do something that will help the world heal itself and get back to normal. Every effort helps this cause, and one of the easiest ways to make a difference is to move up to a Digital Business Card.

Now, this might seem like a tiny step, but believe us every little bit counts. Just think of all the business cards that are made, printed and then wasted across the world. Do you know that 10 billion business cards are printed annually, of which 8 billion are thrown away within a week? This amounts to a daily print run of 27 million cards. These make up 88 per cent of the cards printed, aiding in the destruction of around 7 million trees! This is immediately eliminated by switching to a digital business card.

The benefits of moving to DBC go beyond being environmentally responsible. It is like evolution, every development gives so many more functions and capabilities. Let's start at the beginning and take you through all the many ways DBC by Sailax is the right way ahead.

An idea that keeps on growing

A few years ago, the entrepreneur behind Sailax had an idea for creating a digital business card that incorporated the best technology of the digital world. With this thought, DBC was born. Today it is one of the leading digital business cards around the world with thousands of brands, global and local, business executives, entrepreneurs, start-ups and other enterprises having shifted to it.

As more people moved to DBC, it kept evolving and adding more features that aided human interaction and made conducting business a little more efficient.

The Features of DBC

"In today's time when most companies are working remotely, client-facing professionals are looking for ways to exchange their contact information digitally. DBC is helping people with this by providing them with an advanced and feature-loaded technology that helps them network effortlessly and do their business with ease," Mr Ajay Sharma, Founder Sailax, DBC.

That is one of the simplest ways to sum up why DBC is the right choice. But let's get into the details. DBC gives you all the advantages of going digital. And some of these are unique to it.

Customization is the key

Sailax's DBC goes beyond the sharing of basic contact information. The leap forward through technology makes your information come alive. And it can be customised to suit your needs, individual styles, and most importantly, to fit into brand guidelines and templates. Everything, from the design to the fonts to the colours, can be played around with so that you get exactly what you want.

You can add "Digital Magic"

Beyond all the customization possibilities are the features that come with DBC. You get features such as dynamic QR code creation, business card analytics, email signature, a mini website, and technology for turning paper cards into digital business cards, tracking your card and QR scanner traffic, and managing all your contacts in one place.

One of the features that every user has given feedback on is the addition of a video to their cards. This can be used to introduce yourself, your organization, or even to advertise opportunities.

Now, which other card do you know of that allows you to do all this.

The World is Switching to DBC

Since its establishment in 2020, Sailax's DBC app has received over 150,000 downloads. Employees of tech behemoths like Tesla and Microsoft use DBC on a daily basis. It was named the top digital business card app in the Google Play Store in August 2021. It is a GDPR-regulated app which assures data security.

While we do not want to brag about our success, we would love it if you visited our site and read all the other feedback we have got from our users.

The most important reason to shift to DBC now

What you have read above are the reasons why you should put away your paper business card forever. There is one more, which we believe is the most important, and that is the benefits it gives our world. This is the one reason why the entire team behind Sailax DBC keeps making it better through new features and technologies. So you get the best digital business card with the most capabilities and heal the world at the same time.

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

DISCLAIMER

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 9 (ANI/NewsVoir): Bharat Petroleum, the second largest Indian Oil Marketing Company and one of the premier integrated energy companies in India, has reiterated the strategic importance of biofuels in India, on the occasion of World Biofuel Day.

World Biofuel Day is observed every year on August 10 to create awareness about the importance of non-fossil fuels as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels. The day honours the research experiments by Sir Rudolf Christian Karl Diesel (inventor of the diesel engine) who ran an engine with peanut oil in 1893.

Biofuels in India will assist in Improving Farmers Income, Import Reduction, Employment Generation, Waste to Wealth Creation, cleaner environment, health benefits etc. The existing biodiversity can be put to optimum use by utilizing dry lands for generating wealth for the local populous and in turn contribute to sustainable development.

India's net import of petroleum was 185 MT at a cost of USD 551 billion in 2020-21. Most of petroleum products are used in transportation. Hence, a successful E20 program can save the country USD 1 billion per annum, i.e. Rs 30.000 crore.

Speaking on the occasion, P.S. Ravi, Executive Director, Retail, BPCL said, "BPCL is the coordinator and leader for Ethanol in the industry and we play a big part in contributing to the Ethanol Blended petrol programme of the Government. Achieving energy security and transitioning to a thriving low-carbon economy is critical for a growing nation like India. Blending locally produced ethanol with petrol will help India strengthen its energy security, reduce imports, enable local enterprises and farmers to participate in the energy economy and reduce vehicular emissions amongst many more benefits."

Ethanol is a less polluting fuel and offers equivalent efficiency' at a low'-Availability of large arable land, rising production of food grains and sugarcane leading to surpluses, availability of technology to produce ethanol from plant-based sources and feasibility of making vehicles compliant to ethanol blended petrol make E20 not only a national imperative but also an important strategic requirement.

BPCL along with OMCs has signed 131 LTOAs with project proponents proposing to set up ethanol plants of approx. 757 Cr lit per annum capacity in ethanol deficit states. They have also taken initiative to move ethanol from Surplus states to deficit states through railway mode and ensure higher blending in deficit states.

BPCL is setting up an integrated 2G and 1G Bio Ethanol Refinery at Bargarh, Odisha. The Bio-ethanol Refinery, which will increase the production capacity to about 6 Cr lit per annum of ethanol. The refinery has a design production capacity of 100 KL per day of 2G Ethanol using Biomass as feedstock and 100 KLPD 1G Bio Ethanol using Rice Grain as feedstock.

In order to achieve the target of E20 (20 per cent blending by 2025), BPCL is expanding its Ethanol storage facility in all its depots/terminals in a phased manner to cater to the additional requirement on account of a 20 per cent Blending rollout by 2025.

Fortune Global 500 Company, Bharat Petroleum is the second largest Indian Oil Marketing Company and one of the premier integrated energy companies in India, engaged in refining of crude oil and marketing of petroleum products, with a significant presence in the upstream and downstream sectors of the oil and gas industry. The company attained the coveted Maharatna status, joining the elite club of companies having greater operational and financial autonomy.

Bharat Petroleum's Refineries at Mumbai and Kochi and subsidiary Bharat Oman Refineries Ltd., at Bina, Madhya Pradesh have a combined refining capacity of around 35.3 MMTPA. Its marketing infrastructure includes a network of installations, depots, energy stations, aviation service stations and LPG distributors. Its distribution network comprises over 20,000 Energy Stations, over 6,200 LPG distributorships, 733 Lubes distributorships, and 123 POL storage locations, 54 LPG Bottling Plants, 60 Aviation Service Stations, 4 Lube blending plants and 4 cross-country pipelines.

Bharat Petroleum is integrating its strategy, investments, environmental and social ambitions to move towards a sustainable planet. The company has chalked out the plan to offer electric vehicle charging stations at around 7000 energy stations over next 5 years.

With a focus on sustainable solutions, the company is developing a vibrant ecosystem and a road map to become a Net Zero Energy Company by 2040, in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Bharat Petroleum has been partnering communities by supporting innumerable initiatives connected primarily in the areas of education, water conservation, skill development, health, community development, capacity building and employee volunteering. With 'Energising Lives' as its core purpose, Bharat Petroleum's vision is to be the most admired global energy company leveraging talent, innovation and technology.

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.)
Indias newest airline Akasa Air, backed by billionaire investor Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, began commercial operations on Sunday with the first flight on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route. The low-cost carrier started operating 28 weekly flights between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

While Akasa has a total of 72 Boeing planes on order, it initially started operations with two fuel-efficient 737 MAX aircraft. Akasa competes directly with other budget carriers like IndiGo, SpiceJet and GoFirst. But its network strategy will be to connect metro cities with smaller towns across India.

More locations will be added in a phased manner as the airline plans to deploy two planes each month in the first year. In an interview with Nikkei Asia in June, Akasas Co-Founder and CEO Vinay Dube said it does not make sense for the airline to become another player in the busier routes which already see cut-throat competition. Akasa will still have limited metro-to-metro flying.

Experts also say that Akasa's strategy to focus on smaller tier 2 and tier 3 cities has more to do with non-availability of slots at peak timings to bigger cities. Hence it is convenient for a new entrant to focus on departures from a metro to a relatively smaller city, where there is no paucity of slots.

On the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route, Akasa is pricing its tickets on par with other low-cost airlines like IndiGo and GoFirst.

On August 12, Akasa plans to start its Kochi-Bengaluru operations. On August 19, it will launch flights connecting Mumbai and Bengaluru. Its fares are among the lowest in both these sectors. Till recently, the cheapest fares in these sectors were dominated by IndiGo or on occasions by AirAsia India.

While Akasa is matching other budget airlines on pricing, it continues to rely on pricey add-ons like extra luggage fees, cancellation fees, and pre-ordered meals to generate additional money. Other services, including seat selection and priority boarding, have been priced to match IndiGo and other low-cost carriers.

While the entry of and the re-launch of Jet Airways is expected to intensify the competition for Indian carriers, rating agency ICRA said cost headwinds from fuel costs and depreciation of the

rupee will result in an increase in airfares.

However, it will be limited by the intense competition and endeavour of airlines to maintain and/or expand their market shares. According to the ICRA note, the near-term revenue growth will be supported by passenger traffic growth.

Domestic air travel has made a sharp recovery this year with airlines flying over 57 million passengers in the first half, up 238% from last year.

Mark D Martin, Founder & CEO, Martin Consulting believes Akasas shouldn't toe the line of getting into a price war. It should focus on providing quality and reliable service.

As experts say, it would be prudent for Akasa to focus on reliable, safe air transport and gain the trust of consumers instead of getting into pricing wars with competitors. Also, the impact of Akasas entry on airfares is likely to be minimal and negligible, at least in the near-term.
Two Boeing 737 Max aircraft, bearing the logo of Akasa Air, took off from the runways of Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports on Sunday, hotting up competition in the Indian sky. Apart from keeping the fares low, what other strategy the Rakesh Jhunjhunwala-backed budget carrier is adopting to stay afloat?

celebrated the launch of Akasa airline with a huge chocolate cake. But liquor was missing. The ace- investor had a few years ago told Business Standard that he was cutting down on his drinking. But not everyone is doing that. In Delhi, people are finding it hard to fetch their favourite brand, due to sparse vends. A slugfest is going on the Delhi governments liquor policy.

Riding high on consumer spending, new-age tech companies have reported better-than-expected June quarter results. But analysts believe it will be a long road to recovery for their respective businesses and the stock prices. Take a dive into whether it is the right time to own these stocks.

Most of us must have filed the tax return for all our earnings, including those made from the markets. The last date for filing tax return was July 31. But what if you have missed it. Listen to this episode of the podcast to know your options now.
2009 will be a grim economic year. The unemployment rate will rise all year, house prices will fall, commercial real estate (CRE) will get crushed ... but there might be a few rays of sunshine too.



Look at these three charts of Cliff Diving:



Click on graph for larger image in new window.



The first graph shows monthly vehicle sales (autos and trucks) as reported by the BEA at a Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).



Based on the sales reports today from Ford, GM, Toyota and Chrysler, it looks like vehicle sales were below 10 million units (SAAR) for the first time since the early '80s. My estimate is vehicle sales were at a 9.2 million SAAR in January. Ouch!



The second cliff diving graph shows New Home Sales for the last 45 years.



Sales of new one-family houses in December 2008 were at 331 thousand (SAAR). This is the lowest level ever recorded by the Census Bureau (data collection started in 1963).



And the third graph shows total and single family housing starts since 1959.



Total starts were at 550 thousand (SAAR) in December, by far the lowest level since the Census Bureau began tracking housing starts in 1959. Single-family starts were at 398 thousand in December; also the lowest level ever recorded (since 1959). Single-family permits were at 363 thousand in November, suggesting single family starts may fall even further next month!



And none of this data is adjusted for changes in population.



No sunshine here. But wait ... we all know this cliff diving will stop sometime, and probably not at zero.



First, look at auto sales ...



This graph shows the total number of registered vehicles in the U.S. divided by the sales rate - and gives a turnover ratio for the U.S. fleet (this doesn't tell you the age of the fleet).



The estimated ratio for January is 27 years, by far the highest ever. The actual in December was close to 24 years. This is an unsustainable level, and the ratio will probably decline over the next few years. This could happen with vehicles being removed from the fleet, but more likely because of an increase in sales. (For more analysis, see: Vehicle Sales)



This suggests vehicle sales have fallen too far. And if vehicle sales just stablize, the auto companies can stop laying off workers, and the drag on GDP will stop.



New home sales is a little more difficult because of the huge overhang of excess inventory that needs to be worked off. But some people will always buy new homes, and we can be pretty sure that sales won't fall another 270 thousand in 2009 (like in 2008), because that would put sales at 60 thousand SAAR in December 2009. That is not going to happen.



So, at the least, the pace of decline in new home sales will slow in 2009. More likely sales will find a bottom - to the surprise of many.



And we know for certain that single family starts will not fall as far in 2009 as in 2008, because starts can't go negative! So, once again, the pace of decline will at least slow. And more likely starts will find a bottom too (although any rebound will be weak because of the excess inventory problem).



Even though most of the economic news will be ugly in 2009, my guess is all three of these series will find a bottom (or at least the pace of decline will slow significantly). This means that the drag on employment in these industries, and the drag on GDP, will slow or stop.



These will be rays of sunshine in a very dark season. That doesn't mean a thaw, but it will be a beginning ...
ISLAMABAD, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif held a phone conversation with President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, discussing economic relations and matters of mutual interest, the Prime Minister's Office said on Tuesday.

During the conversation, the two leaders reviewed the progress on decisions taken recently between the two countries and were resolved to further strengthen trade and economic ties, with particular focus on accelerating cooperation and building partnerships in investments, energy and infrastructure.

Highlighting the generous support extended by the UAE to Pakistan over the years, the Pakistani prime minister welcomed the recent announcement by the UAE to invest 1 billion U.S. dollars in various economic and investment sectors in Pakistan, the office said in a statement.

Reaffirming the close fraternal ties between the two countries, the two sides agreed to work closely to further enhance bilateral cooperation in different fields, it said.

The UAE is Pakistan's largest trading partner in the Middle East and a major source of investments, and hosts more than 1.6 million Pakistanis. 
SYDNEY, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Australia's biggest cattle-producing state, Queensland, will recruit a squad of biosecurity officers to boost its frontline defences against outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), lumpy skin disease (LSD) and African swine fever (ASF).

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said on Monday that the 15 new staff were part of an array of initiatives worth more than 20 million Australian dollars (almost 14 million U.S. dollars) to deal with the new threats posed by the infectious livestock diseases which have taken hold in neighboring Indonesia.

"We are stepping up our programs to strengthen years of preparation and prevention measures designed to protect the state's cattle, sheep, goat and pork industries," Palaszczuk said.

"Getting these frontline officers strategically located throughout rural and regional Queensland is a top priority."

The suite of new measures to bolster biosecurity defences includes increased support for emergency animal disease preparedness teams and providing training support to the industry to ensure uptake of appropriate strategies.

Queensland minister for agricultural industry development and fisheries Mark Furner said that although the outbreaks in Indonesia were causing concern, industry groups were expressing confidence in the state's biosecurity measures.

"Queensland has been readying for the risk of foot-and-mouth disease outbreak for many years and our strong relationships with key industry stakeholders mean we are well prepared and able to respond as needed."

Furner said although Australia so far remained free of diseases such as FMD, LSD and ASF, there was no room for complacency.

"Recent detections are a timely reminder that Australia is susceptible to animal diseases through various pathways such as wind-borne insects, food contamination and travellers ignoring biosecurity requirements," he said. 
MINSK, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The first case of infection with the Omicron BA.5 coronavirus strain has been confirmed in Minsk, local media reported on Tuesday.

Currently, the strain is most prevalent in the United States and Western Europe. In response to the Minsk case, the Ministry of Health of Belarus has launched a vaccination campaign for children aged five and older.

As of July 1, Belarus had recorded 994,037 COVID-19 infections and 7,118 deaths. No statistics have been released since. 
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The United States' Practice of Forced Labor at Home and Abroad: Truth and Facts

August 2022

Introduction

Over the years, the United States has concocted the biggest lies of the century such as the so-called "genocide" and "forced labor" in Xinjiang, in an attempt to smear and contain China. It has enacted and implemented the "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act", denigrated the human rights situation in Xinjiang and undermined people's livelihood and development of Xinjiang. In fact, the claim of forced labor does not apply at all to Xinjiang. It is instead a chronic disease of the United States that goes all the way back to the founding of the country. It remains rampant today, and is getting worse than ever.

This report records the United States' practice of forced labor at home and abroad from historical and current perspectives. The aim is to clarify facts, debunk lies, and help the world better understand what is forced labor and who is doing that. Let the truth shine through the darkness of lies.

I. There is clear definition of forced labor in international law

Since the 1930s, a series of conventions, protocols and other documents have established clear definition and determination standards of forced labor in international law.

 The core standards of the International Labour Organization (ILO) on forced labor include: Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29, ratified by 179 member states by the end of 2021), the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105, ratified by 176 member states by the end of 2021) and the Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (ratified by 59 member states by the end of 2021).

 According to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930, the term forced labor "shall mean all work or service which is exacted from any person under the menace of any penalty and for which the said person has not offered himself voluntarily." In other words, "involuntariness", "menace of penalty" and "work or service" are three core elements of forced labor.

 According to ILO statistics, the United States has ratified only 14 international labor conventions, one of the lowest numbers among member states. It has ratified only two out of the ten core conventions, and has not yet ratified the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 till this day.

 China has ratified 28 international labor conventions. The Forced Labor Convention, 1930 and the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 were ratified in April 2022. China faithfully fulfills its obligations under international conventions, and truly protects the rights of workers and prohibits forced labor through legislation and policy formulation and implementation. Forced labor is explicitly prohibited by Chinese law. The crime of forced labor is specified in Article 244 of the Criminal Law. In Xinjiang, workers of all ethnic groups choose jobs according to their own will, and enter into labor contracts with employers and get remuneration and rights and interests in accordance with laws and regulations such as the Labor Law and the Labor Contract Law, and on the basis of equality, voluntariness and consensus. The governments at various levels in Xinjiang also provide necessary job skills training to workers who apply voluntarily. Workers of all ethnic groups are free to choose where they work and what they do. They are never menaced by penalty or restricted in their personal freedom. There is no such thing as forced labor in Xinjiang.

II. Forced labor in the United States was born and grew with the founding of the nation

Slave trade was an original sin of the United States. When the United States was founded, it was the blood and tears of millions of black slaves sold to the country that helped create immense wealth and complete the primitive accumulation of capital.

 For a country with a history of only 246 years, slavery had been legal in the United States for almost one-third of its history. According to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, in the history of slave trade, there were at least 36,000 "slaving expeditions" between 1514 and 1866. And according to German data firm Statista, there were about 700,000 black slaves in the United States in 1790, while by 1860 the number had exceeded 3.95 million, and fewer than 490,000 African Americans were free in the whole nation.

 Black slaves, without adequate food or clothing, were forced to work under harsh conditions at the bottom of society. They were cruelly exploited and many were even tortured to death. Lots of black slaves were forced into the cotton industry. As American writer Edward Baptist wrote in his book The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism, the whip drove the slaves to devote all of their physical strength and most of their energy to cotton picking, making the speed faster and faster. Under the brute force of slave owners, cotton production in the United States by 1860 reached 130 times that of 1800. Behind the rapid increase in cotton production are the blood and tears of black slaves.

 Data shows that the value of labor extracted from black slaves by U.S. slave owners is as high as US$14 trillion at current prices. According to the website of James Madison's Montpelier, the home to the fourth President of the United States James Madison, the slavery economy was once the main engine driving the American economy. Slavery was essential to the U.S. economy from tobacco farming in Virginia to shipbuilding in Rhode Island. In 1850, slaves produced 80 percent of America's exports. Sven Beckert, a historian from Harvard University, said that the United States and the West prospered through slavery, not democracy.

 The Conversation, a nonprofit news organization, noted when tracing the history of slavery in the United States that "criminal slaves" and "real estate slaves" have coexisted since the late 18th century. In Virginia, the state with the most African Americans in jail, prisoners were declared "dead spirits" and "state slaves". It was not until the early 20th century that states stopped leasing criminals to farmers and industrial and commercial operators as cheap labor for railroads, highways and coal mines. In Georgia, a 1907 cessation of renting out criminals led to an economic shock in industries ranging from brick making to mining, and many companies went out of business as a result.

 Archives show that by the end of the 1860s, hundreds of thousands of Chinese workers had taken part in the construction of railways in the U.S. Poor Chinese peasants boarded ships known as "floating hells", where they were packed like sardines, and drifted on the sea for about two months before arriving in California and working as coolies. On these journeys, up to 64.21 percent of the Chinese died due to inhuman treatment, typhoons or infectious diseases. Those who survived became the target of racial discrimination and whipping from white supervisors. It took them only seven years to build a railway originally planned as a 14-year project. As some historians put it, the bones of Chinese laborers could be found under every sleeper of the railway.

III. The United States has a horrible track record of forced labor

Over the years, the U.S. government has deliberately evaded its responsibility for labor protection, resulting in "slave labor" among prisoners in private prisons, rampant use of child labor, and appalling forced labor in the agriculture sector, effectively making America a country of "modern slavery".

1.Forced labor is rampant in U.S. prisons

 The United States is a country of prisons in every sense. According to a report by the Prison Policy Initiative, 2 million inmates are held in 102 federal prisons, 1,566 state prisons, 2,850 local jails, 1,510 juvenile correctional facilities, 186 immigration detention facilities, and 82 Indian country jails, as well as in military prisons and other facilities in the United States. With less than five percent of global population, the United States holds a quarter of the world's detainees, making it the country with the largest imprisoned population and highest imprisonment rate.

 The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, while nominally protecting citizens from forced labor, excludes criminals. The U.S. prison system abuses the 13th Amendment to legalize forced labor among prisoners. In prisons at the federal and sub-national levels, there are a large number of incarcerated workers engaged in the daily maintenance of the prison system, including repairs, cooking, facility cleaning and laundry. Most of them are black or other people of color. Some prisoners are leased to public projects or employed by businesses in construction, road maintenance, forestry and funeral services, jobs that are considered dirty, heavy-duty or high-risk. According to Reuters, Suniva, one of the largest U.S. solar panel makers, uses prison labor to keep costs down. The head of the company has admitted to working with the Federal Prison Industries (UNICOR) in the relocation of production lines from Asia back to the United States for a lucrative federal contract.

 According to a report by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), at least 30 U.S. states include prisoners as a labor source for disasters and other emergency operations, and at least 14 hire prisoners for forest firefighting. Most incarcerated workers say they have never received any formal job training and often have to conduct dangerous operations against safety protocols and without protective equipment. Casualties, which are not uncommon, often go unrecorded by the prisons. The Atlantic commented in 2015 that "convict leasing was cheaper than slavery, since farm owners and companies did not have to worry about the health of their workers."

 The United States has effectively formed a sprawling "prison-industrial complex". Private prisons operating under contracts with the government have become a major source of forced labor in the United States. Incarcerated workers in private prisons are entirely at the mercy of their employers and have no right to refuse to work. As high as 76 percent of the inmates interviewed reported various punishments when they were unable or unwilling to work, including solitary confinement, reduction of family visits, or denial of bail or commutation. Besides, prisoners have no choice in their work assignments which are entirely based on the arbitrary, discriminatory or even punitive decisions by prison management personnel. Laura Appleman, a professor at the College of Law of Willamette University, points out in her report Bloody Lucre: Carceral Labor and Prison Profit that private prison is a "pernicious form of servitude", and that prisoners are "trapped in the service of endlessly increasing profit, the literal revenues of physical toil, suffering, and exploitation."

 For years, private prisons in the United States have colluded with greedy politicians to force prisoners to work, thus turning private prisons into "concentration camps" of slavery where they could make fortunes by exploiting the poor. Due to lack of oversight, prisoners of forced labor work long hours in harsh conditions while getting paid little, or in some cases, nothing at all. In early 2022, the ACLU filed a lawsuit, exposing the pervasive power-for-money dealings in the operation of detention facilities in American private prisons, which exacerbate excessive imprisonment and forced labor, and demanding that the U.S. Marshals Service provide information about operators' contracts and make it public.

 American prisons spend less than one percent of their budget on paying incarcerated workers, who produce goods and services worth more than US$11 billion every year. Big American corporations use prison labor rampantly, as prisoners have no labor rights and are cheap. Private prisons under contracts with the government make millions of dollars a year from forced labor in prison. As of May 2022, average hourly wage in the United States was about US$10.96, while incarcerated workers were paid less than one dollar per hour. Moreover, many prison facilities have not given prisoners any pay raise for years or even decades. In seven states including Florida, prisoners are not paid at all for most of their work assignments. In addition, the wages of many prisoners are withheld by prisons for "taxes, room and board expenses, and court costs". Over 70 percent of respondents said they were unable to afford basic necessities during imprisonment.

 During the COVID-19 pandemic, at least 40 U.S. states asked prison inmates to manufacture masks, hand sanitizers and other protective equipment, dispose of large amounts of medical waste from hospitals, move corpses, build coffins and dig graves. The inmates who performed these high-risk tasks hardly got the necessary protection. Since the start of the pandemic, nearly one third of the incarcerated people in the United States have contracted COVID-19, and 3,000 of them have died from inadequate health care or poor detention conditions. The Los Angeles Times revealed that during the pandemic, thousands of prisoners in California were forced to make masks and furniture under high-risk conditions. Prison factories kept running despite the numerous confirmed COVID cases. The inmates had to sew thousands of masks a day, without getting one for themselves. Prison staff threatened postponed release date if inmates refuse to do the work.

2.Forced labor of women and children is appalling

 Child labor has long been an issue in the United States. American mines, tobacco farms and textile factories started hiring and exploiting children since over a century ago. To date, the United States remains the only one of the 193 member states of the United Nations (UN) that has not ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and child labor remains an unresolved problem in the country. Statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other institutions show that half of the 100,000 people trafficked into the United States each year for forced labor are minors.

 According to estimates by the nonprofit organization Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs, there remain about 500,000 child farm workers in the United States, many of which started working at the age of eight and work up to 72 hours a week. These child farm workers are regularly exposed to dangerous chemicals such as pesticides. In addition, they are at a greater risk of work-related injuries due to the need of operating sharp tools and heavy machines without necessary training and protection measures. According to the U.S. National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, an estimated 907 youth fatalities happened on U.S. farms between 1995 and 2002. The Washington Post reported that about 452 children died of workplace injuries in the United States between 2003 and 2016, including 237 child fatalities in agriculture. A U.S. Government Accountability Office report in November 2018 shows that around 5.5 percent of child labor is in agriculture and accounted for over 50 percent of all work-related child fatalities. In several U.S. states, tobacco farms employ a large number of children to harvest and dry tobacco leaves, posing a significant risk to their physical and mental health. Many children suffered from nicotine poisoning and some were even diagnosed with lung infection.

 According to official statistics, in 2019 alone, U.S. law enforcement officers found 858 cases of child labor in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act, and 544 minors were found working in hazardous places. The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, the largest federation of unions in the United States, said that the Department of Labor (DOL) only reported 34 child labor violations on annual average, far lower than the real number, revealing deficiency in DOL's law enforcement.

 The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported that 240,000 to 325,000 women and children are at risk for sexual exploitation each year in the United States. American NGO End Slavery Now said a child trafficked to the sex industry "works" 12 hours a day and seven days a week, and perpetrators can exploit US$150,000 to 200,000 each year.

3. Forced labor is prevalent in numerous sectors in the United States

 An article published on the website of the University of Denver reveals that at least 500,000 people in the United States are living under modern slavery and victims of forced labor. With pervasive forced labor, labor trafficking in the United States is particularly serious in 23 sectors including domestic services, agricultural planting, tourism, catering, medical care and beauty services. In 2004, after studying relevant cases from 1998 to 2003, the Human Rights Center at the University of California, Berkeley, pointed out that ten thousand or more people work as forced laborers in scores of cities and towns across the country, forming an illicit trade that is hidden, inhumane, widespread and criminal.

 The existing U.S. immigration law is breeding modern slavery. The temporary visa system of the United States binds foreign workers with their employers by law, leaving them in a vulnerable position, as workers, for fear of deportation, dare not quit their jobs even if employers arbitrarily lower their wages or extend working hours. The asymmetry between employers and employees is systemic, and there is evidence that connects forced labor in the United States to certain visa types. A 2014 study by the Urban Institute and Northeastern University shows that more than 70 percent of the interviewed victims of forced labor entered the United States legally with a visa. Ending this form of modern slavery requires reform of U.S. immigration law. However, both the Congress and the administration lack the will to do such reform.

 Most of the sweatshops in the United States are headquartered in major cities like New York and Los Angeles. These shops usually make garment, coffee and electronic products. The DOL estimated that as many as 22,000 sweatshops in the country were in the garment industry alone. In order to minimize cost and maximize profit, sweatshop owners exploit legal loopholes by various means to evade government regulation. Workers get wages and benefits far below legal thresholds and are not paid accordingly for working long and extra hours. In extreme cases, they are even abused by employers. According to a DOL investigation report obtained by The New York Times, Vietnamese workers at a garment factory in American Samoa were routinely beaten by factory guards, and a female worker lost her left eye after a guard beat her with a pipe. Indian workers at a food factory in Oklahoma were constantly provided with inadequate food. Many workers at the factory suffered serious malnutrition and looked like "walking skeletons".

 In the domestic services sector, the vast majority of service personnel are immigrants and are not recognized as employees by American law. According to the U.S. immigration policy, they are not allowed to freely change their clients, or they will be deported. Most of the victims work in very poor conditions. They often cannot get their wages on time and are paid below the minimum rate. They are subject to violence, sexual assault and intimidation from employers and their families, and are prohibited from complaining to anyone, otherwise they will face deportation. According to the 2014 report of the Urban Institute and Northeastern University, more than one third of the victims of forced labor in the United States are domestic servants.

 In the agricultural sector, about 30 percent of farm workers and their families live below the federal poverty line. They are subject to threatening, violence and forced labor, and unable to express their wishes. The town of Immokalee in southwest Florida is known as the "tomato town" of the United States. It has a population of around 26,000 people, most of whom are farmers from countries including Mexico, Guatemala and Haiti. The local minimum wage is US$8.65 per hour. Yet those farm workers are only paid US$5.5 per hour, far lower than the minimum rate.

According to a survey by The Guardian, foreign workers of American corn farms are not protected by law. They live in extremely poor conditions and are paid only US$225 after working 12 hours a day for 15 days. They often fall victim to sexual assault, harassment, wage theft and work injuries or even fatal accidents in work places, and are often exposed to hazardous chemicals.

Independent journalist Gina-Marie Cheeseman pointed out in her 2017 report Forced Labor is More Common in the U.S. Than You Might Think that in some U.S. farms, foreign workers are forced to sleep in shacks and box trucks, and are asked to pick farm products without being paid. Those who attempt to escape get beaten up.

According to a report by the American Economic Policy Institute, seasonal agricultural workers in the United States are vulnerable to wage theft and other abuses due to their immigration status and fear of retaliation and deportation. Millions of dollars of wage arrears are reported every year. The Wage and Hour Division of the DOL is too underfunded and understaffed to provide adequate protection and relief for agricultural workers. As a result, those workers believe it is neither necessary nor helpful to report employer violations to the DOL.

 According to a 2015 survey by The New York Times on the nail industry in New York, the vast majority of workers in the nail industry are paid below the minimum wage and sometimes even not paid at all. Those workers are seriously exploited and subject to various kinds of humiliation including constant video monitoring and physical punishment. Most of these workers are immigrants from China, the ROK, Nepal and South America. They often work overtime with very low wages. Without legal residential status, many nail industry workers in New York, though being exploited by their employees, are often too scared to report.

 Denise Brennan, a U.S. writer, noted in her book that the U.S. immigration policy, instead of redressing the problem of human trafficking and improving the situation of vulnerable groups in society, has exacerbated social problems and allowed more disguised forms of forced labor to appear in American society. American society does not provide enough support and relief to victims who were freed from forced labor, leaving them voluntarily falling into new traps of forced labor just to make a living, and forever haunted by a vicious cycle of enslavement and oppression.

 According to the 2021 Federal Human Trafficking Report published by the Human Trafficking Institute of the United States in June 2022, the number of criminal forced labor cases filed in 2021 increased by 22 percent since 2020. Of the 449 victims in human trafficking cases filed to federal courts in the United States in 2021, 162 or 36 percent were victims of forced labor. And 93 percent of identified victims in forced labor cases were foreign nationals.(more)
Photo: Colin Dacre In areas with less population density, British Columbians outside of city centres are finding ways to bring more electric vehicles into their communities.

About four years ago, mechanic Todd Penney received his first phone call from a Tesla owner planning to travel through Fort Nelson, B.C. on his way to Alaska.

He reached out to see if there's any way that we could charge his vehicle, Penney said. After discussing it back and forth a little bit, we figured out that my welding plug would work fine for him.

Penney is the general manager of Dalex Auto Services in Fort Nelson and a regional councillor of the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (NRRM).

Since that first phone call, Penneys auto shop has become well known among electric vehicle (EV) owners as a place to stop and recharge while travelling down Highway 97 on the way to Alaska.

Despite the rise of EVs taking a toll on Penneys business, he says his passion for his community and desire to expand Fort Nelsons tourism industry overwhelms any negative impacts EVs are having on his work.

[Fort Nelson is] kind of the holdup right now. Theres charging stations in Fort St. John and in Watson Lake, but there was none here, Penney said.

I didn't want to hold us back from this possibility of tourism over not being able to charge your vehicle. So I was willing to offer that service.

Now, Penney says he charges a couple of vehicles a week  always tourists  who are trying to see how far they can get.

I spoke to [a person] over the weekend [who] lives in the Yukon, and they really want to test out their electric car, he said. So they're driving down... to Edmonton and back.

While the arrival of e-tourism to Fort Nelson appears promising for an emissions-free future, vehicle registration data from ICBC paints a different picture.

British Columbians have been on an unprecedented car-buying spree  a trend that could undermine emission reduction targets from every region of the province.

Like the problem, the solutions would seem nearly universal: more residents walking and biking, taking public transport and adopting electric vehicles. In short, decarbonize the passenger transportation sector.

But while some of B.C.s cities make the province a leader in EV adoption in North America, many of the provinces rural communities are being left behind.

Between 2016 and 2021, the northern B.C. community of Fort Nelson lost 22.5 per cent of its population, according to the latest census.

However, over the same period, residents registered 6.5 per cent more vehicles, on par with the rest of B.C.s registration spike.

Of those 1,838 vehicles registered in Fort Nelson, only three were electric, according to data from ICBC.

To change this narrative, the NRRM is endeavouring to help bring small rural towns into the provinces electrifying movement.

On June 13, the NRRM passed a motion at its regional council meeting to turn on a 240-volt municipal plug to support EV tourism. This will be the first official charging station in the entire regional municipality.

Until now, tourists travelling up Highway 97 have puttered into town on invisible fumes, says Hillary Sheppard, community and social development coordinator for the NRRM.

[The tourists] get down the highway to as far as they can... and then either run out of steam power and need to be towed, or they are just barely making it to Fort Nelson, she said.

Ironically, when Sheppard brought forward the request to turn on the municipality-owned plug at the council meeting, one of those dying EVs rolled into town.

Penney was in the meeting with Sheppard when this request came in.

I just had [an EV] show up at about quarter to six here, I received a text and I sent a staff member down to make access to a plug, Penney said in the council meeting.

As EV adoption continues to increase across the province, Penney said the plug will be essential in giving tourists another option.

I would greatly appreciate it if we make something available, he said in the council meeting. I'm getting a lot more inquiries. We're getting several a week on average of electric vehicle owners that are planning this trip.

Limitations to rural EV adoption

The urgent request to open this stand-in charging station comes while Fort Nelson awaits the promised installment of a Level 2 charger through the Charge North initiative.

Slated to open by the end of 2023, the Charge North station will be one of 150 chargers installed in over 40 northern B.C. communities.

Danielle Weiss is the strategy and collaboration lead for the Community Energy Association (CEA)  the organization leading the Charge North initiative and tasked with electrifying B.C.s northern communities.

It's not the first time something like this has been tried in rural B.C.

Weiss, who lives in the Kootenays, said a similar project known as Accelerate Kootenays led to the installation of 53 chargers before it wrapped up in 2019.

Weiss says that since then, EV registrations have accelerated.

Gone are the days when you knew the one EV driver or EV owner in town. There's several now. You don't even know who owns all of them, Weiss said.

Officially, Charge North is meant to support reliable EV travel over almost 2,800 kilometres of highway. But Weiss says it's more than that.

[Charge North will] normalize EVs in the region, whether it's by local residents purchasing them or visitors who come through town and people see them, she said.

With construction yet to begin on the charging network, Weiss said there remains an urban-rural divide in EV infrastructure, driven by, among other things, money.

The gap is large, Weiss said.

The funding incentives aren't there for private companies to go to these regions that don't have the adoption that urban centres might have, given population or just general access to electric vehicles.

Only when funding, demand and adoption increase, will this gap close, Weiss says.

But according to Sheppard, theres also a culture surrounding EVs thats harder to adopt in places like Fort Nelson where winter temperatures can drop to minus 50 Celsius.

Even when the towns charging station does open, Sheppard said it will continue to mainly serve tourists because locals have yet to see if the EV batteries can cope with such frigid temperatures.

There's probably a great deal of skepticism on the equipment, batteries and vehicles that are expected to run on electric power, given our pretty severe climate in the winter, Sheppard said.

Penney shares some of those doubts, but for the most part, he says he's optimistic the technology will pull through.

It is the way of the future... I think we're all on board with that, he said.

It'll be a little bit more difficult up here in the north because of the temperatures, but I'm sure battery technology will come along and we'll all be zipping along quietly soon.

Werner Antweiler, associate professor at UBCs Sauder School of Business, said concerns about batteries performing in places as far north as Fort Nelson are backed by science.

Batteries perform less well under cold conditions, Antweiler said.

Below the 50th parallel in a lot of parts of Canada, where the conditions aren't too severe, EVs are perfectly fine. But the further north you go... you have wintry conditions that are not really ideal for EVs yet.

Antweiler estimates it will be another 10 years until EV adoption spreads to climates like Fort Nelson's.

For now, Antweiler says Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland remain the sweet spot for EVs with ideal conditions and broader uptake.

Infrastructure is key

Within that sweet spot, are two small municipalities with warmer weather and urbanized cores.

In the growing communities of Sechelt and Bowen Island, EV populations rose by at least 25 per cent in 2021.

Bowens EV fleet surged from 12 to 112 vehicles in the six years leading up to 2021. EVs, in other words, accounted for 99 per cent of the community's growth in vehicle registrations over that time.

In Sechelt, meanwhile, the town went from 20 to 182 EVs at a time when total vehicle populations shrunk by nearly nine per cent.

What makes these two small urban centres more prone to EV adoption than their rural counterparts? According to two local EV experts, it all comes down to infrastructure.

Bowen Island, about 1,500 kilometres away from Fort Nelson and a short ferry ride from Vancouver, is leading the charge.

Here, councillor David Hocking, who sits on the municipalitys transportation advisory committee, says having an electric vehicle just makes sense.

The thing about Bowen, compared to the City of Vancouver, is we're mostly single-family homes. There's very few apartments, he said. So for most people, if they own an electric car, it wouldn't be too hard to figure out how to plug it in at home.

Local attitudes and climate go a long way in making the community an EV sweet spot in rural B.C.

Bowens average low of 4 C in the winter months pales in comparison to Fort Nelsons average of -22 C.

Whereas Shepphard says her community may be wary of driving an EV in Fort Nelsons extreme temperatures, Hocking says within his community, theres a shared consensus that EVs will soon become more abundant.

We all know... that we need to electrify transportation, from a greenhouse gas perspective, Hocking said.

But with many residents having the right infrastructure to be able to charge at home, Bowen Island is not much further ahead than Fort Nelson.

In March, the island community opened its first public charging station after an issue with BC Hydro delayed the project

The two charging spots sit in the library parking lot, and unlike Fort Nelson, Bowens first plug-in charger is serviced by the charging network operator FLO.

Bowen Island recently had two FLO chargers installed in its library parking lot to encourage its growing EV population. | Bowen Island Municipality

Despite the varying senses of urgency behind each installation, both newly installed charging stations were apparently opened with a similar demographic in mind.

Bowens new charging spots are a two-minute walk from the ferry terminal and right beside the visitor information centre  perfect for tourists choosing to travel electric.

If [the tourists] were touring the island, stopping for a meal, a night or getting a coffee, [the charger is] located right in the cove where all these other services are, Hocking said. That's why it's there.

Since the chargers were commissioned in May, they have been used for approximately 183 sessions  equivalent to just under 235 hours of charging.

Now, Hocking said Bowens municipal council is prioritizing the electrification of public transport, such as buses or ferries, over the installation of any more private vehicle chargers.

The goal: lower transportation emissions that, according to Hocking, are Bowens most polluting sector.

Small, urban communities are ideal

One step up from both Bowen and Fort Nelson, is the EV-abundant municipality of Sechelt.

This coastal community, with a slightly larger population than Bowen Island, is the home of John Henderson, founding member of the Sunshine Coast Electric Vehicle Association.

In 2010, long before EV infrastructure was even a topic of light discussion, Hendersons bright orange Tesla Roadster rolled into town. Hendersons Tesla made history as the first ever in B.C., he says.

When I got mine in May of 2010, I was the weirdest guy around. I was a freak, Henderson said. I probably spent the next five, six or seven years explaining why it worked.

As the number of registered gas-powered vehicles declined, Sechelts EV fleet grew by 810 per cent between 2016 and 2021, climbing from 20 to 182 cars.

Henderson says this apparent energy transition can be partly attributed to Sechelt being what he calls a contained community.

While rural residents of B.C. often travel further to reach some of the same amenities, Henderson says Sechelt residents rarely have to worry about the number of kilometres theyre clocking each day.

People know that they are going to come home at the end of the day, having driven 20, 50, 80 or 120 kilometres to and from work, and they don't have to worry about charging until they get home, he said.

Even if someone doesnt have a charger at home, Henderson said charging or range anxiety is consistently a thing of the past.

In the village of Sechelt, there are at least four charging stations, according to the charging locator PlugShare, with many more spanning the Sunshine Coast, from Gibsons to Madeira Park.

Over the next couple of weeks this number will grow even larger, Henderson says, with the installation of 12 Tesla superchargers at Sechelts Tsain-Ko mall.

Chargers dot the municipality of Sechelt, from coffee shops to the liquor store, to various malls. Together, theyre signs of an EV culture thats alive and thriving.

While Henderson said he understands EVs arent for everyone, hes hopeful the evolution of EVs will eventually follow a similar path to the evolution of gas-powered vehicles.

Just as gas stations once slowly expanded across the province, Henderson estimates charging stations are on the same path. In Sechelt, he says, the evolution of EV culture over the past 12 years offers an example of what could come in the rest of B.C.

It has gone, over the last 12 years, from skepticism and doubt to just great enthusiasm, he said.

Still a long transition ahead

Fort Nelson, Bowen Island and Sechelt show the limits and potential of electric vehicles in rural B.C.

While the more urbanized municipalities of Sechelt and Bowen Island are seeing an uptick in EV adoption, rural Fort Nelson has been holding steady at a total of three EVs in town since 2019.

Typically, in rural and remote places, transportation emissions are some of their highest sources of [greenhouse gases] because things are far apart and people have to drive a lot, Weiss said.

Weiss isnt the only one pushing for EV adoption outside of urban metropolises.

Alex Bigazzi, head of UBC's Research on Active Transportation Lab, said it makes sense, economically, to have EV uptake start in the cities because that's where the population density and money is.

But it isnt necessarily the most impactful move.

Really, what we want is the opposite, Bigazzi said. We want the cleanest vehicles in the rural areas because they are driving longer distances and theres no other options.

While charging stations may be more dispersed in a rural area, Bigazzi said at-home charging is easier and often makes more sense.

You also more often have home-based trips, he said. You have more people who live in single-family homes, which makes charging much easier than apartments.

At-home charging is also a large part of why Sechelt has seen so much success in its EV uptake.

As a transition technology, Bigazzi said plug-in hybrids are going to play a key role  both for people in rural areas who have range anxiety and people in urban areas who have charging anxiety.

Yet even as charging networks expand into the rural regions of B.C., 2021 saw a major shift in the number of new gas-powered vehicles across the province, upping emissions and slowing progress toward B.C.'s climate goals.

For many, the technology remains too nascent or two expensive for even its strongest backers. For others, it comes down to timing.

Both Hocking and Weiss have yet to go electric because theyre waiting for their preexisting gas-powered vehicle to reach the end of their life.

For now, with the expansion of charging networks across even the most remote regions of B.C. on the horizon, Antweiler said its important to remember EVs arent one size fits all.

It's very important to keep an open mind to... different solutions for different constituencies in that transition towards lower emission vehicles and zero-emission vehicles, he said.

That transition will take many forms and shapes. There's no one technology that does it all.

This is the second in a two-part series looking at how vehicle ownership is changing in British Columbia. Read part one here.
Argos triples port capacity

ICR Newsroom By

Published 09 August 2022

Cementos Argos recently inaugurated a second port terminal in Cartagena, Colombia. The project is part of the companys wider port expansion project and represents the Latin American cement producers ambitions to increase its exports, particularly to the North and Central American markets. By Alberto Carlos Riobo, Cementos Argos, Colombia.

Cementos Argos recently-inaugurated second port terminal in Cartagena, Colombia, has allowed the company to increase its export capacity by moving products on a larger scale and provides the option of continuing to expand sales in the US and Central American markets. The new facility allows the mobilisation of up to 3.5Mta of clinker and cement representing an increase of more than 300 per cent.

The second terminal operates in parallell with the existing Terminal 1, where Zona Franca Argos has been exporting material from since 1977. The Terminal 2 project involved a total investment of US$42m with important benefits for local communities, creating more than 1200 direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase.

To continue reading this story and get access to all News, Articles and Video sections of the CemNet.com website, please Register for a subscription to International Cement Review or Login
CBMI Engineering wins Algerian silo order

09 August 2022

CBMI Engineering (Sinoma group) has signed a contract was signed with Lafarge Algeria (Holcim group) for the construction of cement storage silos at the Oggaz cement plant. The new cement silos will have a cement capacity of 2 x 4800t.

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
Upcoming special event road closures:

Chattanooga Football Club Home Match

The following roads will be closed on Wednesday from 4 p.m. until midnight:

Reggie White Blvd between the Chattanooga Skate Park north entrance and W 20th Street

Chestnut Street between W 17th Street and W 19th Street.

W 19th Street between Reggie White Blvd and Chestnut Street.

Street parking will be prohibited on Chestnut Street within the closure on the dates/times listed above. Vehicles left within the closure will be towed at the owner's expense.

Best of Preps Football Jamboree

The following roads will be closed Thursday through Saturday from 3-11:30 p.m. daily:

Reggie White Blvd between the Chattanooga Skate Park north entrance and W 20th Street (Reggie White will remain closed until 6:00 PM Sunday for the Chattanooga Market).

Chestnut Street between W 17th Street and W 19th Street.

W 19th Street between Reggie White Blvd and Chestnut Street.

Street parking will be prohibited on Chestnut Street within the closure on the dates/times listed above. Vehicles left within the closure will be towed at the owner's expense.

Nightfall - Cherry Street / Martin Luther King Blvd / Market Street

The following closures will be in effect each Friday night through Sept. 2:

Cherry Street will be closed at E MLK Blvd on Friday from 3 p.m. until midnight for Nightfall setup.

Market Street will be closed from East 8th Street to East 10th Street, and Martin Luther King Blvd will be closed from Broad Street to Georgia Avenue from 5:30 p.m. until midnight.

Riverfront Nights - Riverfront Parkway

Riverfront Parkway, between Power Alley and Chestnut Street, will be closed on Saturday from 6-10 p.m. for Riverfront Nights.

All vehicles over two axles, including tractor-trailers, must use Aquarium Way or W Martin Luther King Blvd as a detour.

Chattanooga Market - Reggie White Blvd

Reggie White Blvd will be closed in front of the First Horizon Pavilion on Sunday for the Chattanooga Market until 6 p.m.

This Sunday's theme is "Team Spirit Day"

View CDOT's map of events and road closures for full details of these activities and other projects underway in our public space.






In Chattanooga's early days, Cameron Hill resident James Reeves Allison was the city's chief silversmith and watchmaker. During the trying days of the Civil War, the Allisons were one of the few families to remain in town.



The Allisons were early settlers in Upper East Tennessee. James Reeves Allison was born in Greene County about 1816. He made his way to Murray County, Ga., along with many other settlers after the Indian removal. Allison arrived in Chattanooga in 1852.

His first wife, Jane, died here on June 4, 1858. She was buried in Citizens Cemetery.The following year, J.R. Allison took a young wife. He was married to Sallie Ellen Lipp, a native of Culpepper County, Va., who was just 17. He was 43. The ceremony was performed on May 31 by the Rev. W.E. Munsey at the residence of the bride's family. Sallie was the daughter of Henry William and Frances Jane Hoffman Lipp. The following year, Henry Lipp died in Atlanta. Frances Lipp then came to Chattanooga, and she married Frederick Divine in 1871. The Allisons lived on the side of Cameron Hill at the corner of Pine and Seventh streets near Dr. L.Y. Green. The Allison shop was on Market Street near Fifth. It was near the Kennedy House.During the war, the Allisons stayed put though the city was repeatedly shelled and one army after the other held sway. They endured the terrible siege in the late summer of 1863, when food could scarcely be found. The family was forced to obtain permission from the military authorities to use the water from their own well. At the height of the siege, streams of thirsty soldiers made their way to enjoy the cold Allison well water. At one time, the Allisons were told that they would have to vacate their home to allow its use by a captain as his headquarters. James Allison wrote a letter to military authorities in protest, saying he was caring for a family of 16 and had been limited to use of just two rooms of his house. He said the family included his aged mother, and he said his wife "is now in very delicate health.'' Allison noted his loyalty to the Union, citing several Chattanoogans who could vouch for him, including Postmaster James R. Hood and Sheriff George Rider. The Allisons were allowed to keep their house.At the time of the Battle Above the Clouds, the Allisons climbed to the top of Cameron Hill andtried to watch the fighting through the fog. On another occasion, future president James A. Garfield stopped by the Allison home. It is said that he saw a white linen coat hanging on a hook and asked if he could use it. "The request was promptly and willingly granted.''James R. Allison was an alderman representing the Third Ward during the early part of the war. He went into office in June of 1861 after Rufus Tankesley resigned to go fight for the Confederacy. At the time the aldermen were getting paid $35 a month, but they protested this rate and were raised to $60. Allison served through a portion of 1863. At the end of the war, he was an election judge for the city on several occasions. Allison on Dec. 4, 1864, registered for military duty in the Union's Civic Guard at Chattanooga.The first Allison child by his second wife was Joseph, who died at a young age. A daughter, Nora Louvenia, was born just before the war. Another son, Marcellius Blucher, arrived Feb. 24, 1862 - after the war had started. James Wright was born on Jan. 19, 1865, just before the war's end. The other children were Istallena B. and John Henry Francis.J.R. Allison kept his Market Street shop open for a number of years after the war. But he feltChattanooga was so lawless during the post-war years that it was no place to raise children. Hebought a farm at Birchwood about 1876 and moved to a dog-trot farmhouse there. The familywould still visit Chattanooga on occasions, and they often would ride the steamboat. To alert the captain to pick them up, they would wave a towel in the daytime and a lantern at night.Nora Allison married Stephen C. Pyott, a Rhea Springs, Tn., native who was a clerk on one of the boats that plied the river between Chattanooga and Knoxville. Then he was a deputy revenue collector for eight East Tennessee counties. He was sheriff of Hamilton County from 1884 to 1886. The Pyotts lived many years at 501 Cedar St. on the side of Cameron Hill.Istallena Allison married Franklin W. Blair, who was in the lumber business. His sawmill was at Douglas Street near the river. The Blair family lived at 799 East Fourth St.

Marcellius Blucher Allison was a railroad engineer. He married Mary Catherine "Molly" Abston, who was from Roane County.



James Wright Allison worked at the Blair saw mill, then later he was a railroader. He married Nancy Ann Samples. Their children were Ethel, James Reeves who married Della Louisa Pendergrass, Martha Ellen who married Jesse James Pendergrass, John A. who married Minnie Jane Priddy, Malissa who married Jeff A. Roark, Nannie Lena who married Willie Clivo Bower, Rodney Elmer, Stephen Caywood who was killed in World War II, and Thomas who married Lillian Bell Roark. The James Reeves Allisons lived at Cleveland, Tn. He was living at Birchwood when he died in 1969 at the age of 79.



John Henry Francis Allison had a farm at Sherman Heights. He later lived at Birchwood. He married Margaret Tennessee Beavers. Their children were Sarah, Ed, John Henry who married Icie Eldridge, Thomas Jefferson, Clifford Francis, Margaret Tennessee, Lenny Mae, Malissa Estelle and Leanna.



J.R. Allison was residing back at Cameron Hill with his daughter, Mrs. Pyott, at Fifth and Cedar streets when he died in early June in 1892. He had fainted while walking near the home about a week earlier. His burial was at Citizens Cemetery. He was "an honored citizen and a man of sterling worth, whose friendship was everlasting.'' Another said he was "a well-known man for a considerable period after the war. He enjoyed a wide range of friendships.''




Marine Hearing on Extended Relief from Discharge Over Shot Mandate

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Aug. 9, 2022

TAMPA, Fla., Aug. 9, 2022 / Christian Newswire / -- U.S. District Court Judge Steven Merryday will hold a hearing tomorrow at 9 a.m. ET on whether to convert the temporary restraining order for a U.S. Marine First Lieutenant into a preliminary injunction.

On August 5, within two hours of Liberty Counsel's request, Judge Steven Merryday granted a temporary restraining order for a U.S. Marine First Lieutenant to stop the Department of Defense from ordering administrative separation and eviction from his home for merely requesting an accommodation of his sincere religious beliefs.

The military has forced the First Lieutenant, who is a Supply Officer with the U.S. Marine Corps Expeditionary Force, to choose between his religious beliefs and accept the COVID shot or face discipline and administrative separation. In addition, the military threatened him with only two days' notice for discharge from the Marine Corps and ordered him to remove himself, his wife, and his two minor children from Camp Pendleton by August 5, 2022.

In fact, seven months after the denial of his appeal, the Marine Corps suddenly issued First Lieutenant his discharge orders on August 3 and only gave him two days to move himself and his family from their home at Camp Pendleton and to return to a "home of record or to any other place you may elect." In addition to the military's recommendation to administratively separate this First Lieutenant from the Marine Corps for merely requesting a religious accommodation to the shot mandate, the Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs stated to him that his failure to accept an injection that directly conflicts with his sincerely held religious beliefs "demonstrates he has no potential for future service and outweighs any positive aspects of his career."

However, in his order Judge Merryday wrote, "The plaintiffs append First Lieutenant's religious accommodation packet, a review of which strongly suggests that the denial of First Lieutenant's request for a religious accommodation and the denial of his appeal are subject to the same infirmities that plagued the denial of Lieutenant Colonel 2's appeal and USMC Captain's appeal. Also, the denial bears an unsettling resemblance to the other appellate denials submitted."

Liberty Counsel continues to pursue class action relief from the unlawful federal COVID shot mandate on behalf of those who currently serve in the United States Marine Corps as well as for all the military branches.

Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said, "The abuse and disrespect our service members face under this administration that refuses to comply with the law is shocking. The Department of Defense is attempting to purge from the military skilled and honorable defenders of freedom under the guise of the COVID shot mandate. The Department of Defense and the U.S. Marine Corps openly violate the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, denying to the same service members their constitutional and federally protected rights that they pledge to defend. These unlawful actions must stop."

Liberty Counsel provides broadcast quality TV interviews via Hi-Def Skype and LTN at no cost.



SOURCE Liberty Counsel



CONTACT: Mat Staver, 407-875-1776, Liberty@LC.org



Related Links



lc.org/


A disorder was reported at a residence on E. Brainerd Road. Police spoke with a couple who said that they were arguing with each other over a car key, and they started pulling each other's hair. Police did not observe any sign of physical injuries on either of them. The man packed his belongings and moved out.

* * *

A man told police he last saw his vehicle where he parked it at the Stone Ridge Apartments on W. 37th Street around midnight the night before. He said it was left locked overnight. When he got back to it that morning, he said he discovered that the passenger side front window had been broken out and there was an item on the ground that was inside his vehicle before. Also, he said the glovebox had been opened and a bag had been taken that contained his wallet.

* * *

A woman on W. 37th Street told police that someone had left a duffel bag in her back yard sometime overnight. She wanted police to check the bag and take it away. Police checked the bag, and found it to be filled with clothing. It is unknown who the bag belongs to at this time. Police transported the bag to CPD Property, where it was entered as found property.

* * *

A man at the Hamilton Inn, 6830 Lee Hwy., told police he got into a verbal argument with his neighbor. Police spoke with both men and they agreed to go to their separate rooms and not bother one another.

* * *

A man told police that at 9 a.m. he took a break at work on Freeman Avenue. When he walked outside, he found that his 2016 Nissan Maxima (TN tag) had been damaged while parked in the parking lot. The damage to the vehicle is to the driver's side fender/headlight area. It is unknown how this damage occurred.

* * *

An anonymous caller told police that a man was walking down the street and acting suspiciously on Clio Avenue. Police located the man in question and he identified himself. He told police that he is homeless and was simply going around collecting trash and cans that he could trade in for money. He said that he wasn't trying to bother anyone and he would leave the area if he was making people uncomfortable. The man denied the need for any kind of help and appeared to be alright. There were no active warrants out for his arrest. He then left the area without incident.

* * *

The property manager at 3430 Hughes Ave. told police a woman was causing problems at 3430 Hughes Ave. The manager wanted police to talk to the woman about the noise and complaints coming from the residence. Police made contact with the woman, She said that she would keep the commotion down.

* * *

A man on Lerch Street told police that overnight his Honda was damaged. He said there is a hole on the driver's side that appears to be caused by a bullet falling straight down, and there are chips on the windshield.

* * *

A disorder was reported at Buffalo Valley addiction treatment center, at 5900 Shaw Ave. Police found a man walking on Shepherd Road; he said that he was just at the vet's home on Shaw Avenue and he was upset because he could not get his personal belongings. He said that he got kicked out about a week ago and they told him that he could come back if the police were present to get his belongings. He said he decided to go to the residence and try to get his belongings

without police presence and the house manager denied him access to his property. The house manager then called the police and the man left the residence on foot. After police spoke with both the house manager and the man, the man was allowed to get his belongings with the police on the scene.

* * *

A woman on Tomahawk Trail told police someone burned down her garbage can while she was away. She told police she believes her ex-boyfriend is the suspect. She told police she had a TPO against him, however, that has expired. She said he has threatened to burn her house down in the past and believes this incident is just the start.

* * *

An AT&T employee told police that within the last two days, someone stole a telephone cable near the intersection of Burgess Road and Browns Ferry Road.

* * *

A man parked near the Tennessee Aquarium, 1 Broad St., told police his white Ford Explorer had a small dent in the door from another car hitting it with the car door. Police observed slight red paint transfer and a small ding on the driver's side rear door. The vehicle next to the man's Explorer was a red Mustang. The Mustang was unoccupied at the time, but police did observe small bits of white paint transfer on the passenger side door.

* * *

A woman called police and said that while at Publix, 5928 Hixson Pike, she realized that she had lost her wallet and its contents.

* * *

A man reported a shirtless black male was pushing a wheelchair, twirling a large stick and walking up to cars, panhandling near a business on N. Market Street. Police spoke with a man matching the description, who goes by the alias, "Pastor Mike." Police had responded earlier that morning to check on the man on a wellness check. Police observed that he was loud and was drawing attention to himself. Police requested he not cause any disturbances.
August 8, 2022, the United States became a Third World country thanks to AG Merrick Garland and FBI Director Chris Wray, sinister henchmen of Joe Biden. From reports, FBI agents executed an unprecedented raid on a former presidents private residence seizing what they claim to be documents that were not returned to the National Archives.

Now the TDS mob, in panic mode from fear of a massive loss of seats in Congress and Trump becoming President again, resorted to a raid on the residence of a former president and potential 2024 opponent. This is typical of the actions of a despotic Third World dictator.

They also fear more revelations about repeated abuses of power leading to fake Russian collusion investigations, phony impeachments and the Jan. 6 show trial, so they risk all in this desperate move to preserve power. AG Garland recently stated no one is above the law and can be prosecuted. No one that is unless you are Hillary Clinton or the Biden family.

When Hillary scrubbed thousands of classified emails nothing happened. Weve also heard reports of FBI whistleblowers alleging corruption regarding the Hunter Biden inquiry. This corruption, they say, is in the upper echelons of the same agency doing the bidding of despots in this matter.

Now if they can do this to a former president and potential presidential candidate, what evils await those of us who speak out against tyranny, especially with 87,000 additional IRS (or perhaps SS) agents to do their bidding.

Im sure well hear from Democrats who gleefully cheer all of this on and think its overdue. It should, however, leave Americans shocked, wondering if this president is Joe Biden or another Joe Stalin.

Ralph Miller

* * *

The excitement over the raid of Trump's Mar Largo might go down in history and according to the GOP as an intrusion of real consequences. Let me remind all that Trump once commented he could shoot someone on 5th Avenue in NYC and not be in any trouble. It is that attitude, now part of the crusading Republican Party, that Trump can do no wrong. I used to have students with that attitude and yes, were difficult to deal with.

This place we live and love can and must carefully and decisively consider that Trump's actions and his presidency might have been more than dishonest with a smattering of corruption. Pity those that believe he can do no wrong because as the news is reflecting more and more, Trump is not an honest man and certainly does not deserve another four years serving all the American people.

The historical significance of the raid on Trump's estate will come to light in dribbles and bits. Maybe the government had to serve reasons for the raid far beyond a peek. Can the GOP be so desperate for someone to run against Biden actually put someone in place and let us have a competition based on ideas and not hyperbole? Donald Trump is not that person.

Robert Brooks

* * *

I disagree with what Mr. Miller has written. Rather than pointing out the errors, mis-statements, and fallacies of Mr. Miller, I wish to ask him and others harping to the same tune some questions.

1. Does Trump have a history of co-operation with the law, or does he snub his nose at it?

An honest man co-operates to prove his innocence. But Trump snubs his nose at co-operation; every subpoena, request to produce documents, and requirement to appear is fought tooth and nail. Many, many prosecutors and plaintiff attorneys have given him ample time to co-operate, and yet Trump fights every one. Delay, delay, delay, and delay some more are Trump's mantra of non-cooperation. I challenge anyone to prove his record is otherwise.

2. What would you do if you were attempting to get documents from someone who has been 100 percent un-cooperative?

I don't think you would continue to bang your head against the wall, so-to-speak, and succumb to Trump's delay, delay, delay and delay some more strategy. Einstein defined insanity as doing the same thing over and over but expecting different results each time. Instead, you would act expeditiously, especially if there was a possibility of evidence being destroyed or moved elsewhere like a cat and mouse game.

3. How does anyone know that this was orchestrated by President Biden?

There is no way to know for sure. The Republican harping is because of the appearance the Republicans want to see.

4, Does anyone know for sure what evidence was presented to the judge, and sworn to by the director of the FBI (who was appointed by Trump with the expectation of upholding the Constitution equally for all individuals)?

Today, no one does for sure. We will find out later, so any harping is pre-mature, and based on what is not readily known. It might be confidential records taken illegally from the White House and not returned to the Archives. Or it might be other information because there are at least two other grand juries impaneled and conducting investigations of which we do not fully know the subject.

5. If this was politically motivated, as Mr. Miller implies, why should the judge be accused of political motivation, when the lying (referring to their confirmation testimony stating under oath that Stare Decisis applies and Roe v. Wade was settled law) Supreme Court Justices were not politically motivated, according to Republicans?

The Republicans apparently have no faith in the justice system when investigations involve them or the outcome differs from their expectations.

6. Are you so blindly allegiant to Trump that you refuse to consider that he may bear responsibility?

The fact that there was enough information for a search warrant to be issued on the home of a former Republican President should be embarrassment enough to the Republicans. But the search warrant was issued for the home of a Republican President who lied so much that there are databases that record and prove the lies to be false. Regardless, every American should be so embarrassed that a very respected former judge (now, Attorney General Garland) had enough evidence presented supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized, resulting in probably case, that a search warrant for the home of a former President was necessary.

I expect there to be letters attempting to refute my questions and opinions, pointing out where my questions and observations are wrong. If someone wishes to challenge my words, I ask they do some research ahead of time, and not merely type out a vitriolic response based on hatred or mis-information. And anyone using the term Banana Republic merely ratifies my assertion that the Republicans despise the justice system when investigations involve them or the outcome differs from their expectations.

Joe Warren

* * *

I believe the FBI had warrants during the phony Russia investigation and falsified many court docs. So if you dont have the mindset to ask questions when the same FBI searches a private residence of a President that stood up to their false allegations, then maybe you should ask yourself why do you believe them this time?

Our government is out of control with power and the sheeple seem to have no problem with any of it.

Jimmy Gray

* * *

In response to Mr. Warren's diatribe, I would like to point out facts, not fiction in his response. The former President was impeached multiple times, slandered and committed no crimes as President. I guess since the political witch hunt didn't deliver what you wanted, you go to the Department of Justice (Gestapo Garland ) to get what you want?

Be careful what you ask for. It might come back to you.



Tim Bittenbender

* * *



To those who hold so much hate and vitriol towards President Trump and have applauded this un-lawful and un-constitutional action, welcome to the Banana Republic of America where now the full weight and power of the federal government can be brought to bear on the opposition party with cheerleaders as Mr. Brooks and Mr. Warren.

What transpired Monday night was on par or maybe even worse than things carried out by the SS and Gestapo in Germany as that was perpetrated by a dictator and Jack-Booted thugs and not by a group of men and women who swore an oath to the US Constitution.

Let me remind you of the numerous times Democrats have failed to appear, pled the 5th, wiped servers, smashed cell phones, deleted e-mails and texts, made up false stories to justify wiretapping, illegal warrants and endless investigations that turned up nothing which in all honesty was treasonous without a single person suffering any consequence for their actions.

Oh, and how about that laptop?

But then we've been a Banana Republic ever since Biden took office as he has yet do anything other than to bring down the United States and do anything to help enrich the bank accounts of his

son, the rest of his family and his friends and the Big Guy business partners in Ukraine and China.

I'm sure Mr. Warren and Mr. Brooks are blind to those facts also.

Jay Reed

* * *

But Ralph weren't you and other Republicans all in with the FBI probe of Hillary Clinton's email back around 2016? You cheered them then.

In fact, didn't one Republican in particular have this to say, "When you're attacking FBI agents because you're under criminal investigation, you're losing" - in reference to Hillary Clinton or anyone from the left who dared complain.





Can't have it both ways, or only "your way."





Brenda Washington

* * *

Neither Mr. Brooks nor Mr. Warren understand the true implications of just what the unprecedented raid on Trump's home are. Do you not see a problem with your party weaponizing the FBI and DOJ in an attempt to destroy your political enemies? And that's just exactly what this is. The FBI was previously involved in the fake Russian collusion charge. It smacks of some third world tinpot dictator, not what was once the greatest country on the planet.

The entire corrupt government is so afraid of Trump and what he tried to accomplish his first term that they will stop at nothing to see he doesn't run again in 2024. Make no mistake, that's all this is about. As Trump so famously said "They're not after me, they're after you. I'm just in the way"

Mr. Warren, I will agree with your third point. Biden didn't have anything to do with it but his puppet masters certainly did. The only decisions he makes now are what to have for lunch.

And with 86,000 new IRS agents how long before they come after the citizens next? Are you familiar with the quote "You'll own nothing. And you'll be happy"?

I weep for my country and what it's become at the hands of the global elitists who own the corrupt politicians and bureaucrats. And the liberal progressives who enthusiastically support them.

Dennis Wooden

* * *

I did not see much point answering Joe Warren's police like questions regarding Trump. Sometimes people concentrate on the small stuff. Lets enlarge the picture.

No president has ever been harassed and bullied by the FBI, even going so far as to ransacking his private home in Florida. They were allegedly looking for Archive material he did not report? Trump has properties from Israel to Canada. If he wanted to hide a document, he could have used a storage unit in Malta or thousands of places outside the US. This unique and unprecedented act was to intimidate the American people. Trump now, us later.

They have hounded this man, especially from the time he declared states should not close churches, when bars remained open, May 2020. Apparently, progressives can close churches but countermanding this closure is not allowed especially by a President relying on the Constitution.

Thats the First Amendment, you know separation of church and state".

Unprecedented bias, the media (Washington Post for one), urged his impeachment from the first month of his presidency.

What President before Trump ever had his personal legal papers, from his own personal lawyer Michael Cohen, seized? This was part of the 3.7 million files on the very debunked Trump Russia collusion.

Like Trump or not, who can stand Idly by and say nothing, hoping it will go away?

Jim Folkner
Scenic Tennessee is inviting the public to take part in Tennessee Vistas (tnvistas.org), a community-sourced initiative to identify, map and help ensure the future of Tennessees most beloved and significant scenic views.



Individuals, organizations and agencies are encouraged to nominate the views they consider essential to the character, history, economy, brand or overall quality of life in their region. Following community review, the top-ranked vistas will become part of a Tennessee Scenic Viewshed Register" that organizers hope will be used in areas from tourism and promotion to education and long-range planning.

(A defined viewshed is everything visible when looking in one direction from a fixed viewing point.)Tennessee is growing by half a million new residents every ten years, said Marge Davis, president of Scenic Tennessee and a board member of Scenic America. "Were lucky to have such a strong economy, but we need to make sure we dont lose the scenic qualities that help draw people here in the first place. This database can serve as a resource for local planning boards and other land-use decision-makers. If they choose to make use of itfor instance, to site a new park, or to reduce visual impacts when development is unavoidableScenic Tennessee and its partners can share expertise and resources. This project gives Tennesseans a say in what our landscapes look like 20, 30 or even 100 years from now.Tennessees natural beauty sets our state apart and is why millions of visitors from around the globe keep coming back year after year, added Commissioner Mark Ezell, Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. We applaud Scenic Tennessees work in helping identify and preserve these landmarks for generations to come.Modeled after a similar initiative developed for Scenic Virginia by landscape architects at Virginia Tech, Tennessees viewshed inventory is now underway in four counties in the Upper CumberlandsJackson, Overton, Putnam and White, home to innumerable bluffs, gorges, overlooks and waterfalls.Some of the most spectacular views in Tennessee are located in these four counties, said Amy New, president and CEO of the Highlands Economic Partnership and the Cookeville-Putnam County Chamber of Commerce. They are absolutely vital to the local economy. Tennessee Vistas will give others a taste of what we have here.Following the pilot, the project will expand to other parts of the state until all 95 counties have been inventoried.Nominators will go to www.tnvistas.org to submit up to three photos per view, along with location and other information. Nominated viewscapes may be rural or urban, natural or man-made, already protected (for instance, within a state park) or prone to development. Expansive views are preferred, though narrower/closer views may be submitted. The only "rule" is that the photographer must be on public property accessible by publicly maintained roads or trails.The pilot review will take place Oct. 4 in the main conference room of the Upper Cumberland Development District's offices in Cookeville. (There will be an option for online ranking as well.) Participants will use a simple form to score views not only for scenic quality but for level of public engagement or concern. The top-ranked views, along with narrative descriptions and other assets, will appear as searchable points on an interactive map created for Scenic Tennessee under contract with STS-GIS, the geographic information systems section of the states Strategic Technology Solutions division.The partnership between STS-GIS and Scenic Tennessee is unique, said Paul Dudley, STS-GIS location intelligence analyst. While his group primarily assists other state agencies, "a dataset of Tennessee viewsheds will be a valuable asset to citizens, state agencies, tourism, developers and planning organizations across the state.Scenic Tennessee in turn benefits from STS-GIS arsenal of geospatial intelligence technology, said Ms. Davis. This includes the ability to build story maps, an increasingly popular product in which images, video, narration, simulations, multiple map layers and other media may be combined to tell a story or explore a theme. Ms. Davis said her group is already planning an annual Tennessee Top 10 Views story map once the register is complete. The map may also incorporate data layers from other agencies and programs, such as TDOTs scenic byways program and TVAs database of scenic overlooks.Scenic Tennessee is launching Tennessee Vistas in partnership with its parent organization Scenic America, a Washington, DC-based nonprofit that focuses on scenic conservation issues on the national level while supporting states and communities with local concerns. In supporting Scenic Tennessees work in developing this database, Scenic America hopes to inspire other states and regions to take similar steps to identify and preserve their own scenic views, said the group's president, Mark Falzone.A report on the pilot project will be presented Oct. 21 during Scenic Americas 2022 Scenic Symposium in Nashville. Scenic Tennessee is co-host of the event, which is open to the public. For more information, visit www.scenic.org/resources/conferences/2022-symposium.Details of Tennessee Vistas - Upper Cumberlands Pilot:

 Nominations accepted through Oct. 3 at www.tnvistas.org

 Counties included: Jackson, Overton, Putnam, White (views may extend into adjacent counties)



 Community review session:

 Oct. 4 from 1-3 p.m. central time

 Upper Cumberland Development District, 1104 England Dr., Cookeville

 Details regarding online participation will be available later



 For more information: (615) 294-2651; margedavis@scenictennessee.org.
Walker County, Ga., is seeing interest in economic development. In anticipation and preparation of utility needs for some potential large users, the Walker County Development Authority is having an engineering study done to accommodate their needs, said Executive Director Stephanie Watkins. And industry visits are taking place that may include tax benefits.

The county is also expanding the footprint of the Walker County Industrial Park on Highway 27. At a meeting Tuesday morning the Development Authority unanimously approved the purchase of 103 acres, consisting of two parcels that are adjoining the Industrial Park. The county will pay the owner $1,280,000 in full at closing, from available cash funds with no financing necessary.

The Development Authority is reporting good news from two projects. Project Tomorrow, the state assigned reference name for expansion of the Roper Corporation in LaFayette, was approved in early 2022. This was done with the help from the state of Georgias EDGE grant, which helps give a county in Georgia the ability to close on a deal involving an expansion or location of the business. It includes assistance with employment issues and equipment when the county is competing with another state or country. A commitment of adding 600 jobs came with the agreement. On Monday, the Development Authority approved the Memo of Understanding and Accountability Agreement and the final documentation that will be needed to fulfill the commitment that the state made to secure the project.

Another project coming from the state of Georgia is being referred to as Project M&M. Members of the Development Authority were told that this company is still interested in locating in Walker County, and a decision is expected by the end of August.

A new venture that Walker County has developed is Walker Rocks, a trail of selfie stations, marked with large boulders that are located in areas of interest throughout the county. For those who complete the entire trail and have photos at each stop, the Chamber of Commerce is offering a prize. This was a collaboration of Walker County, the Chamber of Commerce and the Development Authority. Hotel/motel taxes were used to pay for it.
ABCs The Bachelorette Season 19 Episode 5 finally brings Aven Jones to the forefront. Aven and Rachel Recchia havent spent too much alone time together, but its clear they have chemistry between them. Now, Aven finally gets his chance to wow Rachel during the one-on-one. So, how far does Aven get? Heres what we know, according to The Bachelorette spoilers.

[Spoiler alert: The Bachelorette spoilers ahead regarding Aven Jones and Rachels final men.]

Gabby Windey and Aven Jones | Craig Sjodin/ABC via Getty Images

The Bachelorette Season 19 Episode 5 takes Gabby Windey, Rachel Recchia, and the remaining men to Bruges, Belgium. The men and women were in Paris in episode 4, and Rachel had a fantastic date with Tino Franco while there. But now, its Aven Jones turn to wow Rachel during their one-on-one.

A clip from the episodes shows Rachel and Aven talking during dinner. Rachel tells Aven she was looking forward to their date for quite some time, hoping to learn more about him.

I think I told you when we first met  stability is a big thing for me, Aven shares with Rachel. You want to have a stable relationship with both your parents. But I didnt get to see Mom that often. He explains that he and his mother got closer as he got older, making up for the lost time. Aven then hands Rachel a bracelet his mother made. And kind of seeing how these last couple of weeks have been tough for you, I think if you hold on to it for awhile, maybe itll turn your experience in all of this around.

I could easily see myself falling in love with Aven, Rachel tells the camera.

The Bachelorette spoilers: How far does Aven get with Rachel?

Okay, that was one of the sweetest gestures I have ever seen. ?? pic.twitter.com/u1Mm3wJQTg  The Bachelorette (@BacheloretteABC) August 5, 2022

The Bachelorette Season 19 Episode 5 clip shows Rachel Recchia and Aven Jones having a fantastic time together on their date, and Rachel certainly gives him the rose. So, how far does Aven get with Rachel?

According to The Bachelorette spoilers from Reality Steve shared by Cosmopolitan, Aven makes it to her top four men. Tino Franco, Tyler Norris, and Zach Shallcross join him. This means that Aven likely makes it beyond weeks 5 and 6. James Meatball Clark and Ethan Kang will probably get sent home in either episode 5 or 6, and Logan Palmer switches over to Gabbys men. Hometowns probably air during episode 7.

Its also widely reported that Rachels top two men are Zach and Tino. This means that Tyler and Aven might get sent home in either week 7 or week 8. Either way, we expect to see Aven stick around for a few more weeks, but we dont expect to see him propose at the end.

Does he join the Bachelor in Paradise Season 8 cast?

Don't be crabby, we're headed back to the beach! ?? The doors to paradise open Sept 27 on ABC! pic.twitter.com/ocBNYyo9O2  Bachelor in Paradise (@BachParadise) June 16, 2022

Aven Jones seems like a great guy even if hes not the one for Rachel Recchia, according to The Bachelorette spoilers. With that in mind, will fans see him join the Bachelor in Paradise Season 8 cast?

Unfortunately, it doesnt look like Aven joins the cast. The men from Gabby and Rachels season rumored to hit the beach are Hayden Markowitz, Jacob Rapini, Joey and Justin Young, Johnny DePhillipo, Logan Palmer, and Tyler Norris. However, this could possibly put Aven in an excellent position to become the next lead of The Bachelor.

The Bachelorette Season 19 airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC.

For more on the entertainment world and exclusive interviews, subscribe to Showbiz Cheat Sheets YouTube channel.

RELATED: The Bachelorette: Rachel Recchia Claps Back at Fans Who Hate Her Fashion
On the August 8 episode of The Family Chantel, Chantel Everett makes a last-ditch effort to repair her broken marriage to Pedro Jimeno. However, her plan to make amends with Pedros mom, Lidia Jimeno, backfires on her when her husband finds out.

Chantel Everett and Pedro Jimeno, The Family Chantel Season 4 | TLC

Chantel goes to the Dominican Republic to make amends with her mother-in-law

On the August 1 episode of The Family Chantel, Chantel flies to the Dominican Republic to attempt to bury the hatchet with Pedros mother, Lidia. As fans know, Chantel and Pedros family fighting has caused massive stress on their marriage. To prove to Pedro that shes willing to change to keep their marriage intact, she surprises Lidia at her front door to apologize for the sake of her marriage. Check out the clip below:

Lidia hesitantly welcomes her into her home to see what Chantel says. Chantel gifts her mother-in-law Gucci sunglasses to help bridge the gap. She tells Lidia about how Pedro wants a separation and asks if she can fix their relationship for the sake of her marriage.

Lidia and Chantels meeting was cordial and even sweet, a pleasant surprise for fans. However, despite the discussion going smoothly, Chantels plan backfires when Pedro finds out.

Chantels plan to fix her marriage to Pedro backfires on her

Lidia calls Pedro to tell him that his wife made a surprise visit to the Dominican Republic. An upset Pedro hops on the next airplane to confront his wife. The next day, Pedro finds Chantel, and asks her what shes doing there. She says that since Pedro is trying to fix the relationships with her family, she wants to return the favor.

Chantel tells Pedro, I thought that you would see this as something good, that I actually came and had a conversation with your mom without arguing.

However, Pedro is upset that she lied to him about where she was going. She told him that she was going with Winter to Michigan. Pedro thinks that Chantel going to the Dominican Republic only exasperated the problem. Pedro doesnt believe that Chantels intentions were pure.

Lidia wants to help mediate Chantel and Pedros marriage

During Chantels visit, Lidia understood and empathized with her side of the story. But later on, when Pedro tells his side of the story, she begins taking his side. Lidia tells her son she needs to grow up and stop letting Chantels insecurities make him a wimp.

Despite this, she wants the young couple to stay together and offers to mediate a conversation between Chantel and Pedro. She urges her son to sit down with Chantel, where they can discuss what the final decision is for their relationship. Will they stay together or get divorced?

The Family Chantel Season 4 sheds more light on the lonely marriage between Chantel and Pedro. Fans must watch to discover what happens next in Pedro and Chantels journey.

New episodes of The Family Chantel air Mondays at 8 pm EST on TLC.

RELATED: The Family Chantel: Do Chantel Everett and Pedro Jimeno Have a Prenuptial Agreement?
Evonik is making energy supply at its German sites significantly less dependent on natural gas. Substitution with alternative energy sources can replace up to 40 percent of Germany's natural gas supply - without significantly curtailing chemical production. In addition to safeguarding its own production, Evonik is thus making a contribution to save natural gas in Germany: The volume of gas being substituted is equivalent to the annual consumption of more than 100,000 households.

The most significant measure is being implemented at Evonik's largest German site in Marl. In the new gas-fired power plant, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) will be used instead of natural gas to generate energy. This does not only secure the energy supply and thus continuation of production in Marl. The natural gas volumes released are available to replenish Germanys natural gas storage facilities. Evonik is being supported in this by bp. The energy company is making an important contribution to the supply of LPG at the Marl site.

The coal-fired power plant in Marl is also making a contribution to securing energy supply. Evonik had originally planned to shut down this power plant this year. Following the change in the legal framework, Evonik will now recruit the necessary personnel, invest in technical maintenance, and secure coal supplies to ensure continued operation beyond this year.

"By substituting natural gas with LPG and continuing to operate the coal-fired power plant, we can completely dispense with natural gas for energy supply at our largest German site in Marl - without any significant curtailments in production," says Christian Kullmann, chairman of Evoniks executive board. "The energy supply at our European sites is thus largely secured, even in the event of a Russian gas stop."

Evonik procures a total of around 15 terawatt hours (TWh) of natural gas per year worldwide, most of which is used for power and steam generation. Germany accounts for a good third of this. Energy supplies to Evonik sites outside Germany, for example, in Antwerp (Belgium), are largely independent of gas supplies from Russia. In Germany, on the other hand, a loss of Russian gas supplies would seriously jeopardize chemical production.

This risk is now being significantly reduced. LPG is a liquefied gas mainly comprising butane, unlike natural gas or LNG, which mainly comprises methane. LPG is a by-product of Evoniks production network for C4 derivatives (Performance Intermediates) in Marl. It can also be procured on the market. Through the integrated network with the bp refinery in Gelsenkirchen (Germany), Evonik and bp can use their existing production, logistics and infrastructure to ensure an adequate supply of LPG in Marl. Saving gas is an important and pressing issue for us all in Germany in the present situation. Therefore, we are happy to support Evonik through collaboration between the bp location in Gelsenkirchen and Evoniks site in Marl in order to realize the planned substitution of natural gas by LPG, says Wolfgang Langhoff, chairman of the board of BP Europa SE.

The flexibility of being able to use both natural gas and LPG in Evoniks new gas-fired power plant is now proving an advantage as well. The use of LPG is currently being successfully tested in close cooperation with the builder, Siemens Energy.

Evonik has also identified measures for the substitution of natural gas at its other German sites, such as Steinau, Essen, Krefeld, Lulsdorf and Wesseling. Here, natural gas is to be partially replaced by fuel oil. Corresponding investments have already been initiated.
Giant panda in Chongqing gives birth to twins

Xinhua) 08:54, August 09, 2022

Photo taken on Aug. 4, 2022 shows twin cubs of giant panda Er Shun at Chongqing Zoo in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality. Giant panda Er Shun, born in 2007, returned to China in November of 2020 after staying in the Toronto Zoo and the Calgary Zoo in Canada since March of 2013. Er Shun gave birth to a pair of twin brothers on July 22, 2022 at the Chongqing Zoo after she had succeeded in natural mating with male panda Qing Qing in the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in March this year. The panda twin brothers made their debut at the zoo Monday. (Chongqing Zoo/Handout via Xinhua)

CHONGQING, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- A giant panda named Ershun gave birth to twin cubs late July at a zoo in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, and they are in good condition at present, the zoo announced Monday.

Ershun mated naturally with a male panda at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda in the neighboring province of Sichuan in March, the Chongqing Zoo said.

The cubs weighed 132 grams and 91 grams, respectively, when they were born on July 22. They have reached a weight of 420 grams and 257 grams, respectively, the zoo said.

This was Ershun's second delivery to twins.

Born in August 2007, Ershun lived in Canada's Toronto Zoo and Calgary Zoo as a goodwill envoy between March 2013 and November 2020.

A total of 21 pandas currently live in the Chongqing Zoo, which began breeding giant pandas in the 1960s.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
When people pass on, their loved ones or legacy holders sometimes sift through old papers and discover a stash of love letters or a forgotten stock certificate. Once in a while, that good fortune is a gift to the public.

Last year, Kathy Reeg, the president of the Elisabeth Elliot Foundation, reached out to Back to the Bible, the producers of Elliots long-running radio show, Gateway to Joy, in search of some information about Elliots past work.

In the process of looking for that other project, the team made an extraordinary discovery: A long-buried computer file contained an unpublished devotional by Elliot called Heart of God: 31 Days to Discover Gods Love for You. The book is scheduled for release this September by DaySpring.

We ran across it strictly by accident, said Reeg. But nothing is accidental. Everything is providential.

She knew there were a few unpublished materials in the archives, but the discovery of Heart of God was a complete surprise. A staffer at Back to the Bible told her how sorry they were they hadnt found it earlier.

No, Reeg replied. This is all Gods timing.

The story of the manuscripts discovery is also the story of a relationship between Reeg and Elliot.

I got to know Elisabeth through her writing and later her daily Gateway to Joy broadcast, just as so many others have, said Reeg. Id heard her speak in person at a seminar and had even exchanged letters with her after her book The Shaping of a Christian Family released.

After Elliot was diagnosed with dementia in 2001, Reeg began corresponding with Elliots husband, Lars Gren, first as she was looking for some recordings of Elliots messages, and then as Reeg and her husband hosted Elisabeth and Lars at their home. The couples became dear friends.

Gren was diagnosed with dementia in 2016, and Reeg now manages Grens care at an assisted living facility located near her home.

In June of 2020, her desire to honor her longtime mentors life and work led her to create the Elisabeth Elliot Foundation. The foundation exists to steward the work of Elisabeth Elliot; her first husband, missionary Jim Elliot; and their only child, author Valerie Elliot Shepherd.

In addition to providing a home for the familys writing, the foundation is also involved with other Elliot-related projects, including a planned retrospective of Elliots life at The Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, in spring 2023.

Although Reeg hoped the foundation would play a role in introducing Elliots work to a new generation, she never imagined bringing a new book to that younger audience and also offering a fresh resource to the scores of others who cherished Elliots ministry.

Elisabeth was a true spiritual mentor to me throughout my adult years, just as she was for countless others, said Reeg. And though we live in different times now, her example of grace, mercy, and love, without compromising belief, still speaks today.

Based on the dates of the files in which Heart of God was found, Reeg and the Back to the Bible team suspect Elliot wrote the bulk of the manuscript in the late 1990s. Elliot appears to have revisited the manuscript in 2004, around the time Mel Gibsons movie The Passion of the Christ was in theaters. She references the film briefly in her introduction to the devotional.

The rest of the volume focuses on the character of Godhis sovereignty, generosity, and justicethrough short daily devotionals, prayers, and relevant quotes from other writers and thinkers. This devotional, like her others, exposes the same impulse she had as a young missionary: to share the gospel with those who dont yet know it.

Article continues below

In one of the devotional entries, Elliot writes,

Our loving heavenly Father is a compassionate God who seeks the very best for us. Because of this, however, our Creator is also a jealous God who intends that we worship Him and only Him. Gods jealousy, however, should not be interpreted as a sign that God is uncaring or sinister. Gods jealousy is a righteous jealousy for His people. God wants what is best for us, and what is best is this: nothing other than God.

While Elliots unflinching approach to faith has inspired many over the years, it has also stirred controversy.

After the deaths of her first husband, Jim Elliot, on the mission field in Ecuador, and her second husband, theology professor Addison Leitch, Christianity Today interviewed her in 1978, shortly after she married Lars Gren.

She recognized even then that her unflinching views about missions, gender roles, and personal holiness were a lightning rod for some.

Whenever Im attacked, I am emotionally affected, she said at the time. Im not at all thick-skinned. However, I try not to allow peoples opinions to dictate my behavior or color my doctrine. Instead, I try to get my beliefs directly from the Bible. And if I feel that what I believe is biblical, I cant pay a lot of attention to peoples feelings.

Reeg wishes Elliots critics were able to see beyond the legalism her detractors accuse her of and instead see the generosity of spirit she expressed in person, on the air, and in her voluminous correspondence.

She took Scripture seriously, while reflecting the time in which she lived, said Reeg. She shared the message God put on her heart for that time and season. We need to read her through that perspective. She communicated with the many who reached out to her in tender ways. She said hard things, but she lived a life of great compassion, service, and humility.

Reeg believes that faithfulness can be seen afresh is this posthumous publication.

As Elliots years of public ministry were drawing to a close, she wrote in Heart of God:

When we welcome Jesus into our hearts, an old life ends and a new life begins. God transforms our lives and gives us a completely new view of the world. Let us, then, live out that transformed life. Each morning offers a fresh opportunity to invite Christ to rule over our hearts and our days. Each new day presents yet another opportunity to take up our cross and follow in His footsteps.

If the late author were still alive to see the publication of her last manuscript, she would likely take the excitement in stride and insist that the devotional isnt the treasureonly Jesus is.

Michelle Van Loon is the author of seven books, including Translating Your Past: Finding Meaning in Family Ancestry, Genetic Clues, and Generational Trauma (Herald Press, 2022).
When offered a chance to save his soul at a Texas church this past weekend, Alexander Hamilton did not throw away his shot.

During a slightly adapted production of the hit musical Hamilton at The Door Church, a large, diverse congregation, the main character bowed his head, closed his eyes and gave his life to Jesus.

What is a legacy? the actor playing Hamilton said, according to a recording of the show obtained by Religion News Service. Its knowing you repented and accepted the gospel of Jesus Christ that sets men free.

There was just one problem. The church did not have the rights to perform Hamilton or post videos from a performance online.

Hamilton does not grant amateur or professional licenses for any stage productions and did not grant one to The Door Church, a spokesperson for the musical told RNS in an email.

After learning about the unauthorized performance on social media, the producers of Hamilton sent a cease-and-desist letter to the church, instructing them to remove all videos and other images of the August 5 performance. The producers did tell the church it could go ahead with a performance on the following day, provided the performance was not recorded, no images of the event were posted online and no additional productions would be staged.

According to a statement from the producers, they planned to discuss this matter with the parties behind this unauthorized production within the coming days once all facts are properly vetted.

Written by actor and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Hamilton reimagines the early days of the United States with a diverse cast and a hip-hop inspired score. The musical debuted in 2015 and became a pop culture juggernaut.

A staffer told RNS the church has no comment about the production. During a worship service, pastor Roman Gutierrez acknowledged that the church was contacted by a lawyer from Hamilton and had removed the videos.

We had over 30 people get saved between both nights, and that is really why we do these plays, he said. For people to get saved.

The church website contains links to previous church productions of Toy Story, Despicable Me, and Beauty and the Beast, using images from films of those stories.

Videos of the churchs Hamilton included a series of references to Jesus not found in the original play. In a scene between Hamilton and his wife, Eliza, she tells him that everything will be all right if he gives his life to Jesus.

God is not who I need right now, Hamilton replies.

Following the productionwhich included costumes and an extensive set that seemed to replicate that of the Broadway showa pastor gave an altar call. He told people that no matter their struggles, whether it was finances, addictions or homosexuality, God could help them.

The comparison of LGBT people to people with addictions angered Hamilton fans. So did the use of a beloved show without permission.

Doing so was the equivalent of stealing, said secular commentator and writer Hemant Mehta, who posted about the church on social media. Church leaders should have known better, he said.

Are you telling me that no one involved in putting on this show asked the question, can we do this? he said.

Jake Johnson, associate professor of musicology at Oklahoma City University, said that while there are serious ethical and legal issues involved, he was impressed by the sophistication of the church production. But he was not surprised by it. Churches have long adapted works of pop culture to spread their messages, he said. And they are not above changing the text or even adding songs from other sources to get their point across.

The most extreme example, he said, is the Re-Sound of Music, a reworking of The Sound of Music to promote the polygamist beliefs of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. That music, which still exists online, turns a song called You Two, originally sung by a father to his children in the movie version of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang into a polygamist anthem.

A Canadian church is also known for creating Christian-themed plays based on popular movies and musicals, including one called The Passion of the Iron Man, in which the Marvel hero is crucified while the villainous Loki sings R.E.M.s The End of the World as We Know It.

Musicals are also uniquely suited to be used by religious groups, said Johnson, author of Lying in the Middle: Musical Theater and Belief at the Heart of America, which looks at church adaptations of musicals.

Musicals are almost always a kind of Christian narrative, in the sense that theyre about reconciliation and redemption, he said. Even if its not overtly about religion at all, the story can easily slide into this pocket of Christian idealism where everything works out in the end and the good guys win and the bad guys will be vanquished.

Johnson also said that musicals appeal to a wide range of American society, including theater-going audiences in liberal cities like New York as well as a red state like Texas. The church adaptation is a kind of homage to the power of musicals to bring people together, he said.

Author and historian Peter Manseau also sees some parallels between Hamilton and more overtly religious musicals.

Hamilton is in some ways a show in the mold of Jesus Christ Superstar and Godspell, which also began as radical new tellings of a familiar story, he told RNS. Given the popularity of Hamilton, its almost inevitable churches would try to repurpose it, even in ways counter to the shows intentions.

Musicals can also be a way for churches and other faith groups to bring people together. For a number of years, Bethany Lutheran Church in Crystal Lake, Illinois, has put on musicals like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Mary Poppins.

The church pays for the rights to perform those shows, said Ruth Ann Poppen, director of worship and music, and sees them as a way to help people in the church and the community build their musical skills and self-confidenceand to celebrate the talents in the community. Half the cast from a recent version of Mary Poppins came from outside the church.

It is a way for us to reach out to be more visible and have people come into our sanctuary outside of really regular worship services, she said.

Howard Sherman, an arts administrator, writer and advocate, said churches and other groups can stage musicals if they get the rights to them. The church in Texas did not do that, which he found concerning. Copyrights help artists make a living and give them the right to control their own work.

That is a lesson that anyone in a leadership capacity, an educational capacity, or an ethical capacity should be teaching people, especially young people, said Sherman, who posted about the Texas play on Twitter.

Mehta suggested, in the spirit of musicals, a redemptive resolution to this situation, allowing the Texas church to make amends.

I would love to see them make a sizable donation to a fine arts programthat might be a way to make up for what they have done and allow everyone to benefit.

Kathryn Post contributed to this story.
A. R. Bernard, pastor of the largest evangelical church in New York City, has been working on a plan for more than 10 years. Now the proposal to build a $1.2 billion urban village and revitalize the struggling neighborhood around his church is progressing through the citys approval process and closer to reality. The Christian Cultural Center (CCC) hopes developers could break ground in Brooklyn next year.

If Ive got land, and its valuable, Im going to leverage that land to partner in its future, not surrender it.  What can we do to better the quality of life? Bernard told CT in early August as he paged through the proposals for the urban village. My theology is summed up in two words: human flourishing. Thats the story from Genesis to Revelation.

Bernard had just returned from an event with the New York governor in Buffalo and was planning a trip to participate in the coronation of the new Zulu king in South Africa.

But back in his office without any staff or audience around, he was diving into the minutiae of land development, showing slideshows of proposals for different heights of buildings and talking about the design for porosity of streets and ULURP, the city s land use process.

On 10.5 acres of church land, the proposed village would include thousands of units of affordable housing, a trade school, a supermarket, a performing arts center, 24/7 childcare for night-shift workers, senior living facilities, and other amenities designed to revitalize the East New York neighborhood.

As the founder of the 30,000-member nondenominational church, Bernard is also a kind of unofficial mayor of the citys evangelical churches. He has served as the head of the Council of Churches of the City of New York and is often the person public officials call when they want an evangelical advisor or representative at significant events. He also works in evangelical organizations outside the city, including serving on the board of Promise Keepers.

Im a big Jane Jacobs fan, when it comes to understanding the urban landscape. And community means amenities are within a 1,000-foot walking distance, Bernard said, referring to the urban planner who is famous for saving lower Manhattan from a highway and for her ideas on smaller-scale urban development focused on street life. She was a genius. Absolute genius. He sees this plan as a counter to the influence of the infamous urban planner and Jacobs nemesis Robert Moses, who had a history of dividing communities economically, including in this part of Brooklyn.

When you have lights, activity, shopkeepers, people, you have eyes on the street, he said. So theres less of a need for strong policing, because you have so many eyes, and so many stakeholders. Thats what community is about.

The church hopes this village can be a model for other cities and it could be scaled up or down, Bernard thinks. But he added that a church must be large enough, like CCC, to pull such a plan off.

Black churches in other cities like Atlanta have recently undertaken big development projects to build affordable housing. In Buffalo, New York, churches are partnering at a smaller scale in a nonprofit called Buffalo s Black Billion to begin revitalizing the East Side.

This massive project in Brooklyn goes against the trend in New York real estate. New York churches, facing overwhelming maintenance or renovation costs of their aging real estate, have been selling to developers. And more recently, the trend among city churches has been to make deals with developers to allow construction of luxury condos on their land if the developer also builds a space for the church. Those deals have sometimes turned sour.

Even when such deals work out, they can exacerbate the housing problem for the less wealthy in the city. New York City neighborhoods are experiencing record rents this summer.

In the CCCs neighborhood, 33 percent of households are severely rent burdened as of 2019, meaning they spend more than 50 percent of their income on rent. The homeownership rate was also lower than the rest of the city.

The project is about preventing gentrification, but this area of East New York is one of the farthest flung neighborhoods in the city, and a mile from the end of a subway line. For now it is more about revitalizing the area for residents.

Tony Carnes, who has documented the histories and stories of New York houses of worship with his project A Journey Through NYC Religions, said the CCCs project is perhaps unprecedented [in] size and scope for one congregation to undertake.

Other nearby churches have embarked on affordable housing projects. Another big congregation in the city, Allen Cathedral, has a community development corporation that has built affordable housing and senior residences. A group of Brooklyn churches has also donated to construct housing with the help of city funding, an initiative called the Nehemiah Program. The largest provider of affordable housing in Harlem has been Abyssinian Development Corp., which started through a Harlem church. That organization has struggled financially and sold off properties in recent years, with accusations of financial mismanagement.

Most of those projects happened decades ago. For the most part, churches just aren t building in New York.

Bernard is hoping to avoid a financial spiral in this project. Before he was a pastor, he worked in banking and served on the city s Economic Development Corporation Board during the Bloomberg and de Blasio administrations. He wants a development that attracts enough money to keep the property desirable, and quotes Luke 14:28: Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Wont you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?

We can build affordable housing that cant sustain quality of life, he said. Then its a downward trend, which means now we have to turn government funding, and we simply replicate the problems with [public housing].

CCC purchased a supermarket in the late 1980s for its church, and it soon outgrew the space as membership approached 11,000 in the 1990s. The church bought 6 acres at its current site, and then another 4, and built its current building in the late 1990s. Over the years, Bernard said, he has been approached by developers about the land, and he even refused what he described as a bribe over a proposed affordable housing project he said was not affordable.

There are too many stories of developers exploiting the communities, and especially churches, said Bernard, whose church has been in Brooklyn since 1978.

Outside his office and just beyond the church building, school buses pulled in and out of the massive parking lot that will be the grounds for the village. The church rents the space to a transportation company now.

If the project makes it through the labyrinth of city approvalsborough president, land use, city planning, and then city councilthe organizers hope to break ground in spring of next year.

Bernard is hopeful that his longevity in the community can help move the project to reality, since local neighborhoods often object to outside developers coming in. The church is in a 50-50 relationship with a developer for the project, according to Bernard.

The plans for the village are born out of specific situations the church has seen in the community.

In the early 2000s, one woman appealed to the church for help after a horrible incident: She had to work a night shift at McDonald s and her babysitter canceled. She decided to leave her two children at home overnight, but someone set the home on fire that night. The two children died, and she faced charges for child endangerment. CCC did the children s funerals and advocated for her with prosecutors, according to Bernard, and prosecutors eventually dropped the charges. Night-shift workers, Bernard said, need childcare, so they are working on having a 24/7 childcare center in the village.

The trade school plans also are a response to a community that is still dealing with the effects of the 1994 federal crime bill, which is often blamed for mass incarceration. As millions of men come out of prison and try to reenter communities, he said, the trade school can help them establish themselves.

Bernard also sees the next decade as a time of intense social upheaval and said in such moments in history, always the poor are the most impacted, so the village can be an oasis.

Church is a generational service, birth to death, he said. How can we make a difference using the land thats available to us?
At least 125 Anglican bishops gathered at the Lambeth conference in Canterbury, England, endorsed a decades-old resolution against homosexual practice along with a new provision that renewed steps be taken to ensure all provinces abide by this doctrine in their faith, order, and practice.

The conservative Global South Fellowship of Anglican Churches (GSFA) launched an effort last week to have Resolution 1.10, adopted at Lambeth 1998, reaffirmed as the official stance of the Anglican Communion after 2022 conference leaders scrapped an initial plan to affirm the resolution among an array of calls or statements on pressing issues.

With about 85 million adherents, the Anglican Communion is the third-largest body of Christians worldwide and exists in 165 countries. Some 650 bishops attended Lambeth, which concluded August 8 and was last held in 2008, meaning the GSFA campaign garnered votes from about one-fifth of clergy present.

I give thanks to God for all the bishops who have reaffirmed Lambeth 1.10in its entiretyas the official teaching of the Anglican Communion on Marriage and Sexuality, said Archbishop Justin Badi, primate of South Sudan and GSFA chair. We have been greatly encouraged by the bishops worldwide at this conference who have expressed their support, in whatever form, for the Communion to be governed by biblical authority.

Badi has emerged as a leading voice for conservatives and has not minced words in his criticism of liberal theology. To demonstrate their resolve, he and other conservative bishops at Lambeth refused to receive communion at services in the historic 1,400-year-old Canterbury cathedral, where Augustine served as a missionary in the sixth century.

We cannot break bread with bishops who betray the Bible, he said in an interview with Church Times, a UK newspaper focused on Anglican affairs. We cannot just deceive ourselves, saying: Fine, we are together. We are not really together. This is hypocrisy.

GSFA will continue to seek the endorsement of 1.10 from bishops who did not attend this months conference. Bishops from Nigeria, Rwanda, and Uganda boycotted because several Anglican provinces, including Canada, Wales, Scotland, and the US, allow priests or bishops to perform same-sex marriages or ordain LGBT clergy. LGBT bishops participated in all aspects of Lambeth.

Image: Richard Washbrooke / The Lambeth Conference

During the conference, Justin Welby, archbishop of Canterbury and the topmost Anglican leader, affirmed biblical teaching that homosexual practice is sinful and that 1.10 remained a valid resolution. But he also told The London Times, I will not punish churches that conduct gay marriages. The comments were widely seen as an attempt to mollify his critics on both sides.

For some attendees, the high-wire act successfully lanced a boil and enabled clergy to conclude Lambeth agreeing to disagree, reported the Religion Media Centre. Particularly after Welby announced his priority as archbishop of Canterbury was unity. I neither have, nor do I seek, the authority to discipline or exclude a church of the Anglican Communion, he said. I will not do so. I may comment in public on occasions, but that is all."

In his pivotal speech, Welby also asserted that the stance of Western progressives and Global South conservatives was essential to their ministries:

For the large majority of the Anglican Communion the traditional understanding of marriage is something that is understood, accepted and without question, not only by Bishops but their entire Church, and the societies in which they live. For them, to question this teaching is unthinkable, and in many countries would make the church a victim of derision, contempt and even attack. For many churches to change traditional teaching challenges their very existence. For a minority, we can say almost the same. They have not arrived lightly at their ideas that traditional teaching needs to change. They are not careless about scripture. They do not reject Christ. But they have come to a different view on sexuality after long prayer, deep study and reflection on understandings of human nature. For them, to question this different teaching is unthinkable, and in many countries is making the church a victim of derision, contempt and even attack. For these churches not to change traditional teaching challenges their very existence.

Welbys reluctance to hold Anglican priests and bishops accountable for ignoring 1.10 has stirred up a hornets nest of ongoing criticism from conservative Anglicans. Liberals, meanwhile, criticize the archbishop for being tolerant of homophobia and unjust treatment of the LGBT community within the communion.

Twenty-four years ago, a supermajority of Anglican leaders agreed in resolution 1:10 that homosexual practice is incompatible with scripture, intending to ban same-sex marriages and LGBT ordinations. But since then, progressive church leaders have consecrated LGBT priests and bishops and have married same-sex couples in the US and Canada, among several other provinces.

Since assuming office in 2013, Welbys attempts to mediate the controversy over homosexuality have drawn sharp rebukes and boycotts from conservatives. To authorize the practice and teaching of same-sex unions as normative and not a violation of divine intentions for humankind, said Badi, is to undermine the clarity and authority of holy scripture, which is the bedrock of our common life as a communion.

GSFA describes itself as a holy remnant within the Anglican Communion. Its leaders participated in Lambeth 2022, while leaders of the conservative GAFCON movement boycotted.

A few liberals have spoken with more moderate rhetoric toward conservatives. We in the Anglican Communion live with a plurality of views on marriage, stated Michael Curry, presiding bishop of The Episcopal Church in the US.  [T]here is another view equally to be respected: a view that includes and embraces same-sex couples who seek the blessing of God on their loving relationships, their commitments, and their families.

Image: Richard Washbrooke / The Lambeth Conference

These disagreements over LGBT rights occur amid the demographic decline of Anglican/Episcopal churches in North America and the UK and the rapid rise of traditional churches in the so-called Global South. There are more Anglicans in church on Sunday morning in Nigeria than in all the British Isles and North America combined, according to Gerald McDermott, a scholar and author of The Future of Orthodox Anglicanism.

In the UK, the discordance between church and state complicates the Anglican Communions stance toward same-sex unions. The British Parliament approved same-sex civil marriages in 2013, and Queen Elizabeth II, the titular head of the Church of England, gave her royal assent to the new law.

Yet the Church of England has a policy to not allow priests to conduct such marriage services but supports celibate same-sex couples in civil legal partnerships. Changing Attitude England, a leading LGBT advocacy group, views opposition to same-sex marriage as homophobia.

The clash among Anglicans is unfolding as more nations have legalized same-sex marriages. As of 2022, 32 nations allow them worldwide. But Africa with its population of 1.2 billion, is the one region where homosexuality is often criminalized and same-sex marriage banned. South Africa is the only one of 54 African nations to legally recognize same-sex marriages.

Years ago, at the 1998 Lambeth, African bishops emerged as a key part of the conservative drive to maintain orthodox Anglicanism. Largely due to the growing number of African bishops in attendance, and with the support of then Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey, Anglican leaders voted 52670 (with 45 abstentions) for resolution 1.10, a supermajority of 82 percent. The resolution text counseled that pastoral care be the churchs core means of spiritual care for same-sex couples. There was no provision for punishment of clergy for marrying a same-sex couple.

Conservative Anglicans have created numerous organizations to steer Anglicans toward orthodox teaching.

The Global Anglican Futures group (GAFCON) is event-based and first met in Jerusalem in 2008 with 1,100 delegates from 29 countries. Ten years later, GAFCON convened 1,900 delegates from 53 countries. GSFA has its roots in high-level meetings that began in 1994 and currently has 24 member churches, including the breakaway Anglican Church in North America.

Conservative Anglicans will face another test of their resolve when they meet up in Kigali, Rwanda, in 2023 for the fourth GAFCON gathering. Many believe the future means to decolonialize the faith, moving Anglicanism away from its historic center at Canterbury and heterodox Western leaders. Or as Canon Chris Sugden, a leader at the Oxford Centre for Religion in Public Life, summarized their argument: Africa is now the actual heart of Anglicanism.

Badi pledged that his Global South colleagues would remain and pursue repair of the tear in the communion. Let those with revisionist theology go or repent, he told a press conference. The West had the gospel and took it to us in Africa. We may have to bring it back.

Additional reporting from David Virtue in Canterbury, UK
Father, son sentenced to life in prison for hate crimes in Ahmaud Arbery murder; neighbor gets 35 years

A federal judge in Georgia has sentenced two men to life in prison and a third to 35 years for racially motivated federal hate crimes related to the 2020 murder of 25-year-old African American Ahmaud Arbery.

U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood sentenced 36-year-old Travis McMichael to life in prison plus 10 years, his father, 66-year-old Gregory McMichael, to life in prison plus seven years and 52-year-old William Bryan to 35 years in prison.

The three men had already been convicted of murder in state criminal court in 2021 and sentenced to life in prison. They were found guilty of multiple counts of violating Arbery's federal civil rights in a trial in February, including using violence to intimidate and interfere with Arbery, attempted kidnapping and confinement.

Travis McMichael was found guilty of using, carrying, brandishing and discharging a shotgun, which added 10 years to his life sentence. Meanwhile, Gregory McMichael was found guilty of using, carrying and brandishing a .357 Magnum revolver, adding seven years to his life sentence.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division described the murder as "a brutal and abhorrent racially-motivated hate crime."

"The tragic murder of Mr. Arbery reminds us that hate-fueled violence targeting Black people remains a modern-day threat in our country, and we must use every tool available to hold perpetrators accountable," stated Clarke on Monday.

"We hope that this sentencing ends one painful chapter for the family of Ahmaud Arbery, the Brunswick community and the nation as a whole."

On Feb. 23, 2020, 25-year-old Arbery was shot to death in Santilla Shores after being chased by two armed white men.

A widely-shared video of the incident showed Arbery being chased by a pickup truck as he jogged through a neighborhood in Satilla Shores, with Arbery briefly going off-camera, a gunshot in the background.

Two more shots were heard as Arbery reappeared in the footage before falling to the ground. He had been unarmed and was dead by the time the police arrived at the crime scene.

The defense argued that Travis McMichael was trying to make a citizen's arrest of Arbery, suspecting him of burglary. The defense also claimed self-defense because Arbery was resisting McMichael's attempt at an arrest.

Last November, a mostly white jury found the three men guilty of murder, as well as a few lesser charges, following 10 hours of deliberation.

"It's been a long fight. It's been a hard fight. But God is good," said Arbery's mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones, as reported by The Associated Press. She said her son "will now rest in peace."

In January, Judge Timothy Walmsley sentenced the three men to life in prison.

"I think many people are seeking closure," he said.

"The mother, the father, the community, and maybe even parts of the nation, but closure is hard to define and is a granular concept. It's seen differently by all depending on their perspective and the prism of your lives."

"When I thought about this, I thought from a lot of different angles, and I kept coming back to the terror that must have been in the mind of the young man running through Satilla Shores," the judge added.
US government watchdog warns of 'systematic' threats to religious freedom in Pakistan

A United States government watchdog is recommending that the State Department once again designate Pakistan as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) for what it calls systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom and a "growing intolerance for religious diversity."

According to a new report from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), a recent spate of attacks targeting religious minorities in the Muslim-majority country underscores a growing intolerance for religious diversity fueled by extremism and existing problematic Pakistani legislation.

"USCIRF has continued to recommend Pakistan be designated as a CPC since 2003 and the State Department has done so since 2018," USCIRF Commissioner Sharon Kleinbaum told The Christian Post. "The State Department re-issues these designations each year.

Christians, along with members of the Shia Muslim, Ahmadiyya Muslim, Hindu and Sikh communities, face what USCIRF describes as aggressive societal discrimination often propagated by extremist rhetoric, often due to the Pakistani governments failure to protect these minority groups.

Such discrimination and persecution include accusations of blasphemy, targeted killings, lynchings, mob violence, forced conversions, and the desecration of their houses of worship and cemeteries against religious minorities or anyone who interprets or practices their faith differently from the majority.

"As a country created for a group seeking religious equality and representation, Pakistan has a strong obligation to protect the rights of religious minorities and those of differing faiths or none at all," Kleinbaum said.

USCIRFs Freedom of Religion or Belief Victims List highlights 55 individuals who were detained or imprisoned on blasphemy charges in Pakistan.

Under Pakistani law, those accused of blasphemy face violence, imprisonment with limited opportunity for bail, and even death, according to USCIRF.

One such case involved Tabitha Gill, a Christian nurse who was accused of blasphemy by her colleagues and was beaten and tortured by hospital staff in Karachi in January 2021.

Though the government has publicly condemned mob violence, it has done little to protect religious minorities or provide justice, the report said.

The report also highlighted the threat of abduction, forced conversion to Islam, rape and forced marriages of religious minority women and children, particularly from the Christian, Hindu and Sikh faiths.

According to USCIRF, last December, the Sindh High Court returned custody of a 14-year-old Christian girl who was abducted, forcefully married and converted to Islam, back to her parents under the condition that she remain Muslim.

Arzoo Rajas 44-year-old abductor and the cleric who conducted the marriage and conversion certification both maintain their innocence, stating that Raja had reached puberty, which is the age of consent according to Sharia law, the report added.

A bill aimed at protecting religious minorities against forced conversion was opposed by Pakistans Ministry of Religious Affairs last October and rejected by a parliamentary committee, which argued that any age limit for conversions of non-Muslims goes against Islam and the Constitution of Pakistan.

In addition to re-designating Pakistan as a CPC, the report also recommended striking a binding deal with the Pakistani government to address religious freedom violations with various benchmarks, including the release of prisoners accused of blasphemy and the repeal of blasphemy and anti-Ahmadiyya laws.

The blasphemy laws embedded in Sections 295 and 298 of the Pakistan Penal Code are frequently misused for personal revenge. It carries no provision to punish a false accuser or a false witness. Dozens of individuals are imprisoned on blasphemy charges in Pakistan.

USCIRF also called on U.S. lawmakers to advocate for the release of religious prisoners of conscience in Pakistan, including Junaid Hafeez, Asif Pervaiz, Stephen Masih, Notan Lal and Aneeqa Atee.

The report also urged Congress to incorporate religious freedom concerns into its larger oversight of the U.S.-Pakistan bilateral relationship through Congressional hearings, letters and delegations.

The worlds attention was drawn to Pakistans blasphemy laws after Asia Bibi, a Christian mother of five, was sentenced to death and served over 10 years in prison before Pakistans Supreme Court acquitted her in 2018. Her acquittal drew the ire of radical extremist groups as many protested in the streets and threatened to kill the Supreme Court justices responsible for setting her free.

In 2014, Christian couple Shehzad and Shamah Masih were burned to death in a brick kiln over false accusations that they had ripped pages out of the Quran.

Open Doors USA ranks Pakistan as the eighth-worst country in the world when it comes to Christian persecution.
Texas church ordered to cease unauthorized' production of Hamilton

A Texas church has received a cease-and-desist letter after performing the award-winning musical "Hamilton" without getting prior permission to do so and adding Christian themes and Bible references to the play.

The Door Christian Fellowship Ministries of McAllen has been told it can no longer perform its variation of Lin-Manuel Miranda's musical telling the reimagined story of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton.

The church first performed the play on Friday and had additional performances planned. The church is also accused of making heavy edits to the script.

In a statement Monday, the team behind the musical said it "does not grant amateur or professional licenses for any stage productions and did not grant one to The Door Church."

"On Saturday, August 6, we were made aware of the unauthorized staging of HAMILTON by The Door Church in McAllen, TX that took place on Friday, August 5, and their plans for additional performances," the team continued.

"We issued a cease and desist letter for the unauthorized use of Hamilton's intellectual property, demanding the immediate removal of all videos and images from previous productions from the internet, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, their own website, and elsewhere."

The team noted that the church could perform the show on Aug. 6 provided that it was neither live-streamed nor recorded, that no videos or photos were taken, that no further performances were given. The statement said, "we would be discussing this matter with the parties behind this unauthorized production within the coming days once all facts are properly vetted."

The Christian Post reached out to The Door Fellowship Church. A church representative said Thursday they could not offer a comment.

Senior Pastor Ramon Gutierrez said during a Sunday service that the church received a "license" to perform the play. However, the team behind the play assured that licenses for the musical were not made available. Gutierrez acknowledged that the church was contacted by a lawyer from the "Hamilton" team and instructed to remove the videos online.

"We did that immediately. We apologized for any inconvenience. And she gave us the OK to continue last night," Gutierrez said. "Thank you so much for entrusting us with such an amazing play."

A video of the performance posted online shows that the church made script changes to include references to Jesus Christ. According to video posted to social media, Hamilton is asked to pray and receive Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

According to My San Antonio, Pastor Victor Lopez made an alter call after the play concluded in which he allegedly said that "maybe you struggle with alcohol, with drugs, with homosexuality, maybe you struggle with other things in life, your finances, whatever, God can help you tonight. He wants to forgive you for your sins."

The reference to homosexuality in the list of sins has prompted many on social media to call the church production homophobic.

Responding to the criticism, Guttierez told the congregation that the church is not anti-LGBT and that "everyone is always welcome."
Indiana becomes first state to pass almost-total abortion ban since Roe's reversal

Indiana has passed a law that bans most abortions, becoming the first state since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade to pass a near-total ban on abortion.

Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb signed Senate Enrolled Act 1 into law last week following a special session of the state legislature. The new legislation is scheduled to take effect next month.

The new law clarifies that it doesn't apply to in vitro fertilization, and allows for abortions in cases of rape, incest, lethal fetal deformity and serious health emergency for the mother.

In a statement, Holcomb said that after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, he was willing to support legislation that made progress in protecting life.

SEA 1 accomplishes this goal following its passage in both chambers of the Indiana General Assembly with a solid majority of support, he stated.

These actions followed long days of hearings filled with sobering and personal testimony from citizens and elected representatives on this emotional and complex topic. Ultimately, those voices shaped and informed the final contents of the legislation and its carefully negotiated exceptions to address some of the unthinkable circumstances a woman or unborn child might face.

Holcomb commended state Sen. Sue Glick and Rep. Wendy McNamara for their brave authorship of SEA 1, saying they have demonstrated a steady hand and uncanny poise while carrying this once-in-a-generation legislation.

The Biden administration, which has been pursuing various efforts to undermine local and state-level abortion bans, denounced the passage of the Indiana law.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre released a statement calling the newly passed Indiana ban radical and a devastating step.

Yesterdays vote, which institutes a near-total abortion ban in Indiana, should be a signal to Americans across the country to make their voices heard. Congress should also act immediately to pass a law restoring the protections of Roe  the only way to secure a womans right to choose nationally, stated Jean-Pierre.

Until then, President Biden is committed to taking action to protect womens reproductive rights and freedom, and access to care they are afforded under Federal law.

On June 24, the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in Dobbs v. Jackson that abortion was not a constitutional right, overturning the landmark 1973 decision Roe v. Wade.

As a result of the decision, several states have had trigger laws go into effect to ban abortions in most circumstances, while other states have debated whether their state constitutions still protect abortion. Indiana is the first state to pass a ban through both houses of its state legislature since last month's ruling.

Last week, West Virginia had the opportunity to become the first state after both houses passed an abortion bill but couldn't agree on amendments adopted in the Senate version. The bill has been delayed until next month.

Last Tuesday, a majority of voters in Kansas rejected a proposed amendment to the state constitution that would have clarified that abortion was not a constitutional right.

Known as the Value Them Both Amendment, the measure would have allowed the state to ban elective abortions. The measure failed as 58.8% voted no while only 41.2% voted yes.
Al Sharpton claims 'the Bible is about choice' when it comes to abortion

The Rev. Al Sharpton raised some theological eyebrows last week after he claimed that the Bible is about choice when it comes to the killing of pre-born babies.

In an appearance on MSNBCs Chris Jansing Reports, Sharpton was asked how Democrats should engage older black voters who have deeply held religious beliefs on the issue after a 2020 survey showed growing acceptance of abortion among African Americans.

Sharpton suggested Democrats must message it in a way that it is about choice. Its not about saying, Im voting that I support abortion or not.

The National Action Network president and "MSNBC Politics Nation" opinion host said the issue falls on whether theyre going to have a safe abortion.

We always had abortions, but we had these back alley, very risky abortions and were saying that rather than have people in those situations, they should be able to choose whether or not they want to do, even if it is something that I do not believe in, he added.

Sharpton then veered to an apparent theological argument.

The Bible, if youre using this as a religious argument, the Bible is about choice, he said. You can go to Heaven or Hell. Theres nowhere in the Bible that says you had to go to Heaven.

So where do we get this theology of forcing something when the reality is you cant even biblically base that? Its a question of choice. If you are a minister, as I am, you can preach to people to convert them; you do not make laws to compel them.

But David Closson, director of the Family Research Councils Center for Biblical Worldview, told The Christian Post that Sharpton could not be further from the truth.

The Bible affirms the personhood of the unborn from cover to cover. Lets just start with the Ten Commandments where it says thou shalt not kill, said Closson.

Its interesting to hear Sharptons comments that you cant compel anybody. Part of the nature of law is telling people what they can and cannot do, and from a Christian perspective, what people ought to do and what people ought not to do.

Closson pointed to several Bible passages that he said explicitly teach the value of preborn life, including Chapter 1 of the Gospel of Luke, where Elizabeth and Mary are both pregnant and John the Baptist leaps for joy when Jesus in utero enters the room.

Theres a reason that for 2,000 years, every major Christian theologian leader has affirmed the personhood of the unborn or opposed abortion, he added.

Closson also pushed back against the notion of having a safe abortion.

Theres no such thing as a safe abortion, Closson said. A so-called successful abortion is always going to have two victims, the dead unborn child and its going to scar that mother for the rest of her life.

When the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June, Sharpton called the ruling a blatant attempt to bring us back to the dark ages.

Sharpton made other appearances on MSNBC in which he argued that the Bible is silent when it comes to the issue of abortion.

Speaking on MSBNCs Morning Joe, Sharpton said abortion is also not mentioned, as you know better than anybody, in the Bible. It's not mentioned in the New Testament; it's not mentioned in the Gospels, and it's not mentioned by Jesus. Not one time.

For Closson, such rhetoric isnt surprising coming from Sharpton.

Hes been saying these kinds of things for his entire career, but its important for all of us to realize it is out of step, most importantly with Scripture, but its also out of step with every major Christian denomination that believes the Bible is the authoritative Word of God, he said.
Pastors son and namesake who played drums at church on Sundays killed in shooting

A Louisiana pastor who has an outreach to bring down street violence in his community is mourning the death of his son in a shooting near his church where the deceased would play drums every Sunday.

Orin Grant Jr., the 20-year-old son of the pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church in Gretna city and his namesake, was shot and killed on Tuesday, NBC News affiliate WDSU reported.

The pastor, who had been working for peace on the streets in the community, is now asking, 'What could I have done better or more?

Now I have to live the rest of my life without my son, Grant was quoted as saying.

He said his son was by his girlfriends house and might have been lured out of the house.

In the backyard of his girlfriends house. He was shot by two individuals multiple times, he said.

The pastor said he would like to tell the person who killed his son that violence is not the answer.

The negative use of weapons is not the answer. God renders forgiveness. Find peace with God, Grant was quoted as saying.

About 15 hours after the body of the pastors son was found, police discovered that a 23-year-old man, Xevion Davis of Conroe, Texas, had also been killed, according to the Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office.

An autopsy determined he had been shot in the head, nola.com reported, adding that the sheriffs office said it was not known whether the two shootings were related, but they were investigating all possible angles.

Last Sunday, the pastor of a Milwaukee church possibly saved congregants lives as they found themselves caught in a deadly crossfire outside the church building right after the Sunday service ended.

Upon them coming out of the church, a car pulled right here and began to fire at another car that was behind them, Bishop Henry Kilpatrick of Reformation of Holiness Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, told ABC News affiliate WISN.

There was a massive shooting right here. Me and one of the deacons began to push the people back inside and tell them to hit the floor, get down on the floor, and they got down on the floor, added Kilpatrick, who founded the church 24 years ago with his late wife, Rose.

No churchgoer was injured.
4 marks of spiritual revival: Lessons from the Jesus Revolution

What my generation called The Jesus Movement, TIME Magazine called The Jesus Revolution. They were right. Revolution involves a dramatic change, a return. The same can be said of revival. Simply put, a Christian revival is a return to New Testament Christianity  the way we who follow Jesus should always live.

We need another Jesus revolution, and I believe we will see one in our lifetime. But to experience revival, we must first wake from our sleep.

So many in the church today are spiritually asleep. They are settling for a watered-down form of the Christian faith. This is not the form of the Christian faith that changed the world in the first century  the faith that changed families, countries and cultures. As evangelist and Bible scholar G.Cambell Morgan once stated: Organized Christianity that fails to make a disturbance is dead.

But God has laid out a plan for our redemption: If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves, and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land (2 Chronicles 7:14).

As someone who lived through the The Jesus Movement and came to faith as a result of it, I can recall several earmarks of that time:

There was a sense of expectancy at every gathering



No one was ever late for church. If you were, you wouldnt find a seat. We were there consistently and punctually, knowing that the Holy Spirit would show up.

The Word of God was always taught



This consistency and commitment to the Bible gave us stability as we learned from Scripture. Like sponges, we soaked up everything and looked forward to the teaching each week. Verse by verse and chapter by chapter, my mentor and friend, the late Pastor Chuck Smith, brought the pages of the Bible to life.

People were open to the work of the Holy Spirit



We used cutting-edge technology (i.e., cassette tapes!) to share our hope. We took chances  I preached for the first time at Pirates Cove. (This may mean something to you if you're from California. If you have no idea what Im talking about, Google it.) We were careful to base all we did on the unshakable foundation of Scripture. In fact, my life was changed by the Jesus Freaks who took the time to tell me the truth about the hope I was searching for.

People invited non-believers to church and told them about Jesus

Because we believed Jesus could return at any time, we felt a sense of urgency in sharing his Good News. We invited people to church, and people came to know Jesus at every service. In Acts 2:47, we learn that the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. New believers were and still are the lifeblood of the Church. The Christian Church today has a choice to either evangelize or fossilize. If a Church does not have a constant flow of new believers, it will grow stagnant.

Gen Z is the loneliest generation, even more, depressed and despondent after a year of lockdowns. In April 2020, incidents of self-harm among 13- to 18-year-olds rose 99.8%, overdoses rose 119%, generalized anxiety rose 94% and major depressive disorders rose 84%. Our basic human desires, such as connection, love, acceptance, peace, and safety, never change. Thankfully, neither does Jesus (Hebrews 13:8). But as Apostle Paul asks, How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? (Romans 10:14).

Despite all this, Millennials in the Church today tend to not share their faith with others. One study noted, Almost half of Millennial Christians (47%) agree at least somewhat that it is wrong to share ones personal beliefs with someone of a different faith in hopes that they will one day share the same faith.

If we desire revival, then we need to encourage these younger generations to pick up the baton of the Gospel. We need to pray and prepare the ground for God to move by doing our part: teaching them, mentoring them, and loving them.

R.A. Torrey, founder of the Bible Institute Of Los Angeles (BIOLA), had a prescription for revival. He advised:

Let a few Christians (they need not be many) get thoroughly right with God. Let them commit themselves to pray for revival until God opens the windows of heaven and comes down. Let them put themselves at the disposal of God.

The Jesus Revolution of my time followed this formula and changed the world.

So, I pray: Lord, do it again.

Lord, may it begin with us.
Have we been fair weather friends of Donald Trump?

While Donald Trump remains the front-running, potential presidential candidate in the GOP, an increasing number of Trump voters say they would prefer that he not run in 2024, myself included in that number.

Are we guilty of being fair-weather friends of Trump, supporting him when he was in power but rejecting him now that hes out of power? Thats certainly a fair question.

If Trump is your man, you obviously feel he has earned your trust and hes the best man for the job. My intent here is not to argue with you or question your judgment.

But what about those of us who voted for him twice but would prefer another candidate now? Are we being fair-weather friends?

Ill help you bring the charge against me.

You could argue that: 1) I was against Trump during the 2016 primaries, preferring any number of Republican candidates to him; 2) when he became the Republican candidate, I voted for him with both hope and trepidation in 2016, but primarily as a vote against Hillary; 3) I voted for him more enthusiastically in 2020 after watching him keep his promises for four years; 4) I distanced myself from him in the aftermath of January 6.

Isnt this like wearing your home teams jersey when theyre winning but calling them bums when theyre losing? Or worse still, like wearing their opponents jersey when theyre losing?

Im sure it could appear like that to some, and for many people, perception is reality.

Thats why I wasnt surprised at all when I was branded a Never Trumper and a RINO and weak and unpatriotic (and more) when I said that it was time for us to move on from Trump.

Of course, as a registered Independent, its hard to be a RINO. And as a two-time Trump voter (who often defended him when he was falsely accused), its hard to be a Never Trumper.

But the reality is that the same factors that caused me (and many others) to vote for Trump in 2016 and 2020 are the same factors that cause me (and many others) to wish for a different candidate in 2024.

And, given the intense loyalty and the large number of Trump supporters, it requires backbone, not weakness, to swim against this vocally fierce tide.

To be clear, I am not suggesting for a moment that millions of Trump supporters are backing him because it's convenient or easy. Not at all. I recognize their sincerity and I understand why they still believe hes the best man for the job. And they still suffer reproach for standing with their man.

Im simply saying that its a whole lot easier to keep ones mouth shut than to call the failed Trump prophets to account. Or to state publicly that, while not legally responsible for the storming of the Capitol, he was morally responsible.

For me, the conservative Christian principles that led me to vote for Trump in 2016 and 2020 are the principles that lead me to look for another candidate.

It has nothing to do with who the frontrunner is or who is currently in power.

It has everything to do with pros vs. cons, with gains vs. losses, with positives vs. negatives. And some things only become clear over time, which explains the chronological history of my attitudes toward Trump. Perhaps I speak for others here as well?

At the beginning, I didnt trust him at all, assuming he was using evangelicals like other presidents had done before him, especially given his own wheeler-dealer, worldly background.

When some of my friends got closer to him, sharing their positive perspective with me, and when it seemed there was something uncanny about his ascendancy to the top of the pack, I lowered my resistance.

When it was Trump vs. Hillary, my choice was clear. Still, I had concerns.

Over the course of Trumps presidency, in my view, the good outweighed the bad, and so I planned to vote for him again in 2020, with even more confidence than in 2016.

But in virtually every article I wrote speaking well of him, I also added caveats.

But this was not to hedge my bets. Instead, it was because I saw that our unreserved, wholehearted association with Trump as Christians was hurting our witness, not to mention hurting us too, as we seemed to emulate him more than we emulated Jesus. And I recognized the damage he could do.

To me, integrity required us to say (to give a case in point), I really appreciated the presidents Mt. Rushmore speech, and it sent a strong message of racial harmony. But why did he have to shoot himself in the foot by going after NASCAR driver Bubba Watson only hours later?

Then, as we got closer to November 2020, I became more deeply concerned.

There was a loud chorus of prophets guaranteeing four more years of Trump with almost cultlike support for their words.

There was an almost frenzied concern that, if Trump was not reelected, the whole country would collapse, as if only Trump could save America.

There was an increasingly unhealthy merging of the Gospel with politics and of the kingdom of God with national patriotism.

Yet I still voted for Trump, without hesitation (after all, it was Trump vs. Biden), even as these other concerns grew.

Then, in the aftermath of the elections, as I watched Christian leaders pronounce curses on those who allegedly stole the elections, as I watched many prophets try to cover their tracks, as I watched believers have emotional meltdowns over Trumps apparent defeat (or, the steal), as I watched QAnon conspiracies flood our social media pages, I realized things were even worse than I had realized.

Then, watching some of the rhetoric at Christian rallies leading up to January 6  it was downright dangerous  and witnessing Trumps failure to read the crowd or recognize the irresponsibility of his own rhetoric, I was convinced that we needed a very serious course correction. And thats where I stand today.

I also agree with the assessment of Elon Musk, when he was asked where he differed with Trump on policy (since Musk expressed his preference for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis). He replied, Yeah, but too much drama. Do we really want a bull in a china shop situation every single day!?

Personally, I have deep appreciation for the good that Trump did and for his loyalty to his evangelical base, and I commend him for keeping his promises. There were even some things about his presidency that were exceptional.

But with so much collateral damage and with other viable candidates available, the same principles that prompted me to vote for him now prompt me (and many other, former Trump voters) to look for someone else.

You can differ with our assessment and think were dead wrong. Fair enough. Just dont mistake us for fair-weather friends. Quite the contrary.

Speaking for myself, this is about loyalty to God, concern for the Church, and love for America.
The marijuana emergency

In early March 2021, the U.S. Senates Caucus on International Narcotics Control released a report on the increasing potency of marijuana products available on the market. At the time, America was just a year into the pandemic and related lockdowns, so marijuana policy was not front and center on everyones mind. It should have been. In fact, the findings contained in the report can be described as shocking. A more creative, but just as accurate, title for this 58-page report would be This Isnt Your Grandpas Weed.

Included in the findings, the THC levels in marijuana products are soaring. THC is the psychoactive chemical that gives pot users a high, and reportedly provides relief from pain and nausea. In recent years, high-potency products have become more common. In 1990, the average concentration of THC in a marijuana plant was 4%. By 2012, it had tripled to 12%. Today, some products on the market have THC levels as high as 90%.

These increasing levels come even though a 2020 NIH study found that pain relief benefits of marijuana require THC levels no higher than 5% and that marijuana with higher THC levels might even be less effective in fighting pain. Setting aside the consistent political reality that legalizing medical marijuana is always intended to lead to the legalizing of recreational marijuana  even if legitimate pain patients need medical marijuana, they do not need THC levels of 90%.

And yet, marijuana policies are clearly headed in a direction that does not align with what we now know. Most U.S. states allow marijuana use in some capacity. The only two states in the country with a cap on THC levels and high-potency products are Vermont and California, where the cap is 60%. Right now, Ohios legislature is considering a bill to cap THC levels at 90%. At that level, what is the point?

While the political posturing continues, a dystopian reality born of the marijuana revolution is unfolding outside statehouses. Doctors and emergency rooms across the country have sounded the alarm on the spike in psychosis, suicidal ideation, actual suicide, schizophrenia, and addiction-like behavior they have seen among young people using high-potency marijuana.

In June, The New York Times reported the story of a teenage girl who could not stop fainting and throwing up after becoming functionally addicted to vaping high-potency pot. A doctor at the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program at Boston Childrens hospital has reported an explosion in the number of young cannabis users experiencing hallucinations and trouble distinguishing between fantasy and reality. And increased marijuana use also poses secondary dangers such as more deadly traffic accidents, more poisonings of young people who mistake edibles for candy, and a worsening opioid crisis, which many doctors believe is directly correlated with marijuana legalization.

Lawmakers in Colorado, the first state to legalize recreational marijuana 10 years ago, are now trying to apply brakes to this runaway train. Last year, the state legislature passed a bill mandating that coroners test THC levels when someone under 25 suffers a non-natural death. According to one state senator, Since legalization in Colorado, the regulatory framework has failed to keep up with the evolution of the new products. The industry has changed, and we need to catch up with those changes. Unfortunately, catching up with changes is not generally a strength of government.

The Church, however, can play a redemptive role. American Christians have a responsibility to advocate for policies that benefit our neighbors welfare and against policies that hurt them. Marijuana should be no different. The 30-billion dollar marijuana industry has been incredibly deft in crafting messaging that makes anyone opposed to legalizing weed seem uncool or behind the times.

So, it is essential to understand that todays weed is far ahead of the times. We are far removed from the Cheech and Chong days. This stuff is dangerous, particularly for young people. Christians should be highly motivated to not let this cat out of the bag wherever it has not yet been loosed and to minister to people where it has, including in addiction recovery centers and other healthcare settings.

Christians have a legacy of running into the plague when everyone else is running away. Marijuana legalization has reached plague status. It is time to head in.
He fought until the end: Archie Battersbees mom grieves loss; friend calls hospitals actions barbaric

The mother of the 12-year-old Archie Battersbee announced her son's death on Saturday after his life support was withdrawn due to a High Court ruling, saying he fought right until the very end, but a family friend called the process barbaric.

Archie, who had been hospitalized on life support at Royal London Hospital since his mother found him unconscious with a ligature around his neck at her home in Essex in April, died at 12:15 p.m. local time on Saturday, The Telegraph reported.

His mother, Hollie Dance, announced her sons death as she walked out of the hospital in Whitechapel.

It is with my deepest sympathy and sadness to tell you all that Archie passed  today, she was quoted as saying. I would just like to say I am the proudest mom in the world. He was such a beautiful little boy. He fought right until the very end, and I am so proud to be his mom.

By Friday, the boys parents had exhausted all legal options in their fight to keep him alive or moved to a hospice.

The High Court ruled Friday that his parents could not move him from the hospital to a hospice center, saying it was not in Archies best interest.

After Archies parents were denied permission to appeal the High Courts decision by the Court of Appeal, they applied to the European Court of Human Rights on Friday, but the ECHR said it would not intervene in the case.

A family friend, Ella Carter, who supported Dance throughout the familys legal battles over Archies medical care, said the process was barbaric.

He was taken off all medication at 10 a.m. and his life stats remained completely stable for two hours until they removed all ventilation and he went completely blue, The Times quoted her as saying. There is absolutely nothing dignified about watching a family member or a child suffocate. No family should have to go through what weve been through  its barbaric.

Dance earlier said she believed her sons condition was the result of a TikTok challenge.

While doctors diagnosed Archie as brain-stem dead, his parents insisted that was not so. Dance elaborated on her belief in a video released earlier by the Christian Legal Centre, which represented the parents in litigation. Hes held my hand. Ive got video of him gripping two fingers, she said at the time.

If Archie is denied oxygen if and when life-support is removed I will continue to give him oxygen, Dance said in a statement to Christian Concern last week. If they refuse permission for us to take him to a hospice and for him to receive palliative oxygen it will simply be inhumane and nothing about Archies dignity.

In an interview with Times Radio on Thursday, Dance said she wanted Archie to spend his last moments with his family in private away from the noise and disturbances at the hospital.

We cant even have the chance to be in a room together as a family without nurses, she told Times Radio. Theres absolutely no privacy, which is why, again, the courts keep going on about this dignified death  why arent we allowed to take our child to a hospice and spend his last moments, his last days together privately? Why is the hospital obstructing it?

Article 10 of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of People With Disabilities declares: States Parties reaffirm that every human being has the inherent right to life and shall take all necessary measures to ensure its effective enjoyment by persons with disabilities on an equal basis with others. According to Article 12, persons with disabilities have the right to recognition everywhere as persons before the law.

Article 6 of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Children states that States Parties recognize that every child has the inherent right to life and that States Parties shall ensure to the maximum extent possible the survival and development of the child.

For its part, the U.K. government has maintained that the U.N. injunction was not binding.
Fears of Bible shortage in Hong Kong sparked by Chinese Communist Partys crackdown on religion

As the Chinese Communist Party imposes restrictions on religious content in Hong Kong, a shortage of Bibles is being reported in the city where its high degree of autonomy was ended two years ago with the enactment of the National Security Law.

The Catholic religious order of Franciscans, which runs the biblical research institute Studium Biblicum Franciscanum in Hong Kong, has found that printing companies fear that printing the Bibles without government approval might lead to trouble with authorities, according to the U.S.-based persecution watchdog International Christian Concern.

Studium Biblicum Franciscanum has been unable to find a suitable printing house for the Catholic Chinese Bibles and therefore has not been able to print the new Catholic Chinese Bibles, the U.S.-based watchdog group ChinaAid quoted Franciscan Friar Raymond Mary Yeung, a member of the SBF, as saying.



At present, all of the Societys stock of Catholic Chinese Bibles have been sold to bookstores, and if the printing problem is not resolved in the near future, there will be a shortage, he added.

The Chinese government recently declared that Christians must first register and gain approval by the State to post religious content online, ICC said, adding that the regulation is aimed at controlling and aligning religion with the partys political ideology and goals, a process often referred to as Sinicization.

ICC clarified that Christian groups, apart from SBF, remain unaffected, as of now.

Hong Kongs National Security Law, which ended Hong Kongs autonomy following the 1997 British handover, can restrict fundamental freedoms and has four categories of crimes: succession, subversion of state power, local terrorist activities and collaborating with foreign or external foreign forces to endanger national security.

The law also positions Beijing as over the Hong Kong judicial system in cases deemed related to national security, China Aid previously reported. This means that the judges in these cases must be Beijing-approved. Hong Kong residents can now also be taken to China, where they will face a courtroom with allegiance to the government.

Last month, editors of The Wall Street Journal warned that the end of the freedom of speech, assembly and the press in Hong Kong means theres good reason to fear religious liberty will be the next target.

The Communist Party has installed Xia Baolongwho presided over a crackdown on Catholic and Protestant churches in Zhejiang Provinceas the head of its Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, they noted. Communist Party chief Xi Jinping has tightened control over religion in China to a degree not seen since Mao.

Also last month, the Vaticans unofficial representative in Hong Kong was reported to have warned Catholic missions in the city that tough days were ahead for them as China was increasingly restricting religious freedom.

Change is coming, and youd better be prepared, Mexico-born Monsignor Javier Herrera Corona, a bishop who served in the city for six years before his term ended in March, told the citys Catholic missions in June, Reuters reported at the time. Hong Kong is not the great Catholic beachhead it was.

In May, Chinese officials arrested 90-year-old former archbishop of Hong Kong Cardinal Joseph Zen on charges related to Hong Kong's National Security Law. He was arrested with trustees of the 612 Humanitarian Relief Fund, who backed protesters in the 2019 pro-democracy protests.

Earlier this year, a Chinese state-owned newspaper accused churches and Cardinal Zen of inciting Hong Kong's pro-democracy protests and called for greater control over Hong Kong by the Chinese Communist Party.

In late June, the Rev. Jonathan Aitken, an Anglican priest, former U.K. cabinet minister and member of Parliament, also warned about restrictions as Chinese President Xi Jinping marked the 25th anniversary of the citys handover from Britain to China.

The skies are darkening for religious freedom in Hong Kong, Aitken said during a speech at the National Club in London on June 29, UCA News reported. There are increasingly ominous signs that religious freedom in Hong Kong is next on the hit list by the destructive forces of Xis regime.

China has often been accused of rights abuses against religious minorities, including Christians, Tibetan Buddhists, Falun Gong practitioners and Uyghur Muslims.
Muslim extremists beat, kill evangelist in his home in retaliation for preaching

NAIROBI, Kenya  Muslim extremists went to the home of an evangelist who had held open-air events in eastern Uganda and killed him, sources said.

Cut with a sharp instrument that left his head and neck with deep wounds, Sozi Odongo was killed at his home in Omorio cell, Agule Town Council, Pallisa District on July 29 while his wife and four children hid in a room. Odongo was 45.

The previous week, sources said, Odongo had received threatening text messages, including one from Nasuru Ongom, a Muslim sheikh (teacher) in Palissa town, that read, Please stop preaching to our people using the holy Quran, or else you risk your life.

Odongo had cited the Quran and the Islamic hadiths (sayings of the Islamic prophet Muhammad) in evangelistic events directed at mixed-race Arabs in several villages of Pallisa District, sources said.

After such an event on July 29, he arrived home and had eaten dinner with his family when they heard a group of people coming toward their house at about 7:15 p.m., said his wife, Stella Kilo. They locked the door.

We heard them talk in the Arabic language and wondered what could be the matter, Kilo said. They then arrived and knocked at the door.

She and their children went into the bedroom, but Odongo unlocked and opened the door, and the assailants began beating him on all parts of his body, she said.

He screamed while mentioning the name of Nasuru, saying, Leave me Nasuru, Nasuru, Nasuru, please dont kill me, just tell your colleagues to leave me, Kilo told Morning Star News. Then I heard a loud hit, and thereafter no more screaming.

The assailants likely left, but she and the children remained in the bedroom for an hour, afraid that they were still there, she said.

Kilo opened the bedroom door and found her husband in a pool of blood, she said.

I tried calling to my husband, but he was unable to talk, and I then rang a neighbor and informed him about the situation, she said.

The neighbor arrived and informed the LC1 chairperson of the area, George Ochola, who came and found Odongos body cut several times in the head, neck and arm, Kilo said. Ochola called police, and officers immediately arrived.

Ochola filed a report with Agule police (CRB 434/2022), and sources said officers were searching for Ongom on suspicion of murder.

The attack was the latest of many instances of persecution of Christians in Uganda that Morning Star News has documented.

Ugandas constitution and other laws provide for religious freedom, including the right to propagate ones faith and convert from one faith to another. Muslims make up no more than 12% of Ugandas population, with high concentrations in eastern areas of the country.

Originally published at Morning Star News
Houston is a city of drivers, but when you plan to go a little over the legal alcohol limit, or you simply don't want to deal with a parking headache, a rideshare is always within reach.

So when Houstonians opt for a car service or cab, where exactly do they go? We obtained data from rideshare companies Lyft, Uber and Alto to see which restaurants and bars in the city they ride to most often. The results will both surprise and not surprise you.

Lyft

The pink-logo'd rideshare company that's a main rival to Uber provided us with the top 20 most driven-to Houston restaurants and bars over the past year, ordered from most to least below.

Kamp Houston, the camp-themed Galleria-area bar with a sprawling outdoor space, came out on top. Other concepts by Alife Hospitality, such as Prospect Park and Lost & Found, also made the list. Buzzy Almeda Road spots Turkey Leg Hut and Bar 5015 are featured here, as well as party bars Bottled Blonde on Washington Ave and McIntyre's, which has several locations. More utilitarian destinations round this out, like Whataburger, Starbucks and McDonald's.

Kamp Houston

McIntyre's

Prospect Park

The Address

Turkey Leg Hut

Whataburger

Lost & Found

Seaside

Bar 5015

Starbucks

Jr's Bar & Grill

McDonald's

Bottled Blonde

House of Blues

Kirby Ice House

Little Woodrow's

Pappasito's Cantina

Chapman & Kirby

Wonder Bar

Parma Pizza Restaurant & Lounge

Uber

The O.G. of ridesharing provided us with their top-10 most popular drop-off spots in Houston. Uber left out malls and shopping centers like the Galleria, as riders may plug that in as a destination, but whether their ultimate activity is dining out or seeing a movie, for example, is not known.

There is some crossover with Lyft here, notably McIntyre's, which tops the list, as well as popular spots Kirby Ice House, Little Woodrow's, JR's and Prospect Park. East End wonderland Truck Yard makes a logical appearance, too. Uber riders are also partial to a fancy cocktail at Anvil in Montrose or a juicy steak at upscale River Oaks restaurant Steak 48.

McIntyre's

Kirby Ice House

Little Woodrow's

JR's Bar & Grill

Handlebar

Pitch 25 Beer Park

Steak 48

Prospect Park

Truck Yard

Anvil Bar & Refuge

Alto

The Dallas-based luxury rideshare start-up launched in Houston at the end of 2020, offering a more "elevated" experienceincluding water, choice of "vibe" and the brand's signature scentthan the main standbys Uber and Lyft, at a higher price point of course. As Alto caters to people with means, it makes sense that its most driven-to restaurants in Houston are significantly swankier.

Alto's list of most popular Houston restaurants is not surprising. There are three Berg Hospitality concepts, from prolific restaurateur Ben Berg's ever-expanding empire: Trattoria Sofia, a new-ish Italian spot in the Heights; the iconic Annie Cafe in Uptown; and B&B Butchers, an upscale steakhouse. The theatrical MAD in River Oaks also makes sense in this list, as one of the fancier places to eat in Houston.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The FBIs unprecedented search of former President Donald Trumps Florida residence ricocheted around government, politics and a polarized country Tuesday along with questions as to why the Justice Department  notably cautious under Attorney General Merrick Garland  decided to take such a drastic step.

Answers weren't quickly forthcoming.

Agents on Monday searched Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate, which is also a private club, as part of a federal investigation into whether the former president took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence, people familiar with the matter said. It marked a dramatic escalation of law enforcement scrutiny of Trump, who faces an array of inquiries tied to his conduct in the waning days of his administration.

From echoes of Watergate to the more immediate House probe of the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, Washington, a city used to sleepy Augusts, reeled from one speculative or accusatory headline to the next. Was the Justice Department politicized? What prompted it to seek authorization to search the estate for classified documents now, months after it was revealed that Trump had taken boxes of materials with him when he left the White House after losing the 2020 election?

Garland has not tipped his hand despite an outcry from some Democrats impatient over whether the department was even pursuing evidence that has surfaced in the Jan. 6 probe and other investigations and from Republicans who were swift to echo Trump's claims that he was the victim of political prosecution.

All Garland has said publicly is that no one is above the law.

A federal judge had to sign off on the warrant after establishing that FBI agents had shown probable cause before they could descend on Trumps shuttered-for-the-season home  he was in New York, a thousand or so miles away, at the time of the search.

Mondays search intensified the months-long probe into how classified documents ended up in boxes of White House records located at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year. A separate grand jury is investigating efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, and it all adds to potential legal peril for Trump as he lays the groundwork for a potential repeat run for the White House.

Trump and his allies quickly sought to cast the search as a weaponization of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep him from winning another term in 2024  though the Biden White House said it had no prior knowledge and current FBI Director Christopher Wray was appointed by Trump five years ago.

Trump, disclosing the search in a lengthy statement late Monday, asserted that agents had opened a safe at his home, and he described their work as an unannounced raid that he likened to prosecutorial misconduct.

Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search, including whether Garland had personally authorized it. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the West Wing first learned of the search from public media reports and the White House had not been briefed in the run-up or aftermath.

The Justice Department conducts investigations independently and we leave any law enforcement matters to them," she said. We are not involved.

About two dozen Trump supporters stood in protest at midmorning Tuesday in the Florida summer heat and sporadic light rain on a bridge near the former presidents residence. One held a sign reading Democrats are Fascists while others carried flags saying 2020 Was Rigged, Trump 2024" and Bidens name with an obscenity. Some cars honked in support as they passed.

Trumps Vice President Mike Pence, a potential 2024 rival, tweeted Tuesday, Yesterdays action undermines public confidence in our system of justice and Attorney General Garland must give a full accounting to the American people as to why this action was taken and he must do so immediately.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell echoed Pence, saying, Attorney General Garland and the Department of Justice should already have provided answers to the American people and must do so immediately.

The FBI director was appointed by Donald Trump, said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., when asked about GOP allegations that the raid showed the politicization of the Justice Department. She added, Facts and truth, facts and law, thats what its about.

Trump was meeting late Tuesday at his Bedminster, New Jersey, club with members of the Republican Study Committee, a group headed by Rep. Jim Banks of Indiana that says it is committed to putting forth his priorities in Congress.

The FBI reached out to the Secret Service shortly before serving a warrant, a third person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. Secret Service agents contacted the Justice Department and were able to validate the warrant before facilitating access to the estate, the person said.

The Justice Department has been investigating the potential mishandling of classified information since the National Archives and Records Administration said it had received from Mar-a-Lago 15 boxes of White House records, including documents containing classified information, earlier this year. The National Archives said Trump should have turned over that material upon leaving office, and it asked the Justice Department to investigate.

Christina Bobb, a lawyer for Trump, said in an interview that aired on Real Americas Voice on Tuesday that investigators said they were looking for classified information that they think should not have been removed from the White House, as well as presidential records.

There are multiple federal laws governing the handling of classified records and sensitive government documents, including statutes that make it a crime to remove such material and retain it at an unauthorized location. Though a search warrant does not necessarily mean criminal charges are near or even expected, federal officials looking to obtain one must first demonstrate to a judge that they have probable cause that a crime occurred.

Two people familiar with the matter, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, said the search Monday was related to the records probe. Agents were also looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at the estate.

Trump has previously maintained that presidential records were turned over in an ordinary and routine process. His son Eric said on Fox News on Monday night that he had spent the day with his father and that the search happened because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession.

Trump himself, in a social media post Monday night, called the search a weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024.

Trump took a different stance during the 2016 presidential campaign, frequently pointing to an FBI investigation into his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, over whether she mishandled classified information via a private email server she used as secretary of state. Then-FBI Director James Comey concluded that Clinton had sent and received classified information, but the FBI did not recommend criminal charges.

Trump lambasted that decision and then stepped up his criticism of the FBI as agents began investigating whether his campaign had colluded with Russia to tip the 2016 election. He fired Comey during that probe, and though he appointed Wray months later, he repeatedly criticized him, too, as president.

The probe is hardly the only legal headache confronting Trump. A separate investigation related to efforts by him and his allies to undo the results of the 2020 presidential election  which led to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol  has also been intensifying in Washington. Several former White House officials have received grand jury subpoenas.

And a district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia, is investigating whether Trump and his close associates sought to interfere in that state's election, which was won by Democrat Joe Biden.

___

Associated Press writers Terry Spencer, Meg Kinnard, Michelle L. Price, Lisa Mascaro, Alan Fram, Darlene Superville and Will Weissert contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The FBI searched Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence, people familiar with the matter said Monday, a move that represents a dramatic and unprecedented escalation of law enforcement scrutiny of the former president.

Trump, disclosing the search in a lengthy statement, asserted that agents had opened up a safe at his home and described their work as an unannounced raid that he likened to prosecutorial misconduct.

The search intensifies the months-long probe into how classified documents ended up in boxes of White House records located at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year. It occurs amid a separate grand jury investigation into efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and adds to the potential legal peril for Trump as he lays the groundwork for another run.

Familiar battle lines, forged during a a four-year presidency shadowed by FBI and congressional investigations, quickly took shape again Monday night. Trump and his allies sought to cast the search as a weaponization of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep him from winning another term in 2024  even though the Biden White House said it had no prior knowledge of it, and the current FBI director, Christopher Wray, was appointed by Trump five years ago and served as a high-ranking official in a Republican-led Justice Department.

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, Trump wrote. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before.

After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Trump said in his statement.

Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search, including about whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorized it.

Trump did not elaborate on the basis for the search, but the Justice Department has been investigating the potential mishandling of classified information after the National Archives and Records Administration said it had received from Mar-a-Lago 15 boxes of White House records, including documents containing classified information, earlier this year. The National Archives said Trump should have turned over that material upon leaving office, and it asked the Justice Department to investigate.

There are multiple federal laws governing the handling of classified records and sensitive government documents, including statutes that make it a crime to remove such material and retain it at an unauthorized location. Though a search warrant does not suggest that criminal charges are near or even expected, federal officials looking to obtain one must first demonstrate to a judge that they have probable cause that a crime occurred.

Two people familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, said the search happened earlier Monday and was related to the records probe. Agents were also looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at the estate.

Trump has previously maintained that presidential records were turned over in an ordinary and routine process. His son Eric said on Fox News on Monday night that he had spent the day with his father and that the search happened because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession.

Asked how the documents ended up at Mar-a-Lago, Eric Trump said the boxes were among items that got moved out of the White House during six hours on Inauguration Day, as the Bidens prepared to move into the building.

My father always kept press clippings, Eric Trump said. He had boxes, when he moved out of the White House.

Trump emerged from Trump Tower in New York City shortly before 8 p.m. and waved to bystanders before being driven away in an SUV.

In his first public remarks since news of the search surfaced, Trump made no mention of it during a tele-town hall on behalf of Leora Levy, the Connecticut Republican he has endorsed in Tuesdays U.S. Senate primary to pick a general election opponent against Democratic U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal. Trump gave his public backing to Levy late last week, calling her on Monday the best pick to replace Connecticuts joke of a senator.

But in a social media post Monday night, he was much more unguarded, calling the search a weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024.

Other Republicans echoed that message. GOP National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel denouncing the search as outrageous and said it was a reason for voters to turn out in November.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican who is considered a potential 2024 presidential candidate, said in a statement on Twitter that it was an escalation in the weaponization of U.S. government agencies. Kevin McCarthy, the House Minority Leader, said in a tweet that the Justice Department has reached an intolerable state of weaponized politicization and said that if Republicans win control of the U.S. House, they will investigate the department.

That Trump would become entangled in a probe into the handling of classified information is all the more striking given how he tried during the 2016 presidential election to exploit an FBI investigation into his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, over whether she mishandled classified information via a private email server she used as secretary of state. Then-FBI Director James Comey concluded that Clinton had sent and received classified information but the FBI did not recommend criminal charges because it determined that Clinton had not intended to break the law.

Trump lambasted that decision and then stepped up his criticism of the FBI as agents began investigating whether his campaign had colluded with Russia to tip the 2016 election. He fired Comey during that probe, and though he appointed Wray months later, he repeatedly criticized him too as president.

Thomas Schwartz, a Vanderbilt University history professor who studies and writes about the presidency, said there is no precedent for a former president facing an FBI raid -- even going back to Watergate. President Richard Nixon wasnt allowed to take tapes or other materials from the White House when he resigned in 1974, Schwartz noted, and many of his papers remained in Washington for years before being transferred to his presidential library in California.

This is different and it is a sign of how unique the Trump period was, said Schwartz, author of Henry Kissinger and American Power: A Political Biography. How his behavior was so unusual.

The probe is hardly the only legal headache confronting Trump. A separate investigation related to efforts by Trump and his allies to undo the results of the 2020 presidential election  which led to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol  has also been intensifying in Washington. Several former White House officials have received grand jury subpoenas.

And a district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia, is investigating whether Trump and his close associates sought to interfere in that state's election, which was won by Democrat Joe Biden.

___

Associated Press writers Zeke Miller, Meg Kinnard, Michelle L. Price and Will Weissert contributed to this report.
Related video above: Restraining order against Ezra Miller dropped

Ezra Miller, the actor known for The Flash in "Justice League," was charged with burglary after police said Miller stole alcohol from a residence in Stamford, Vermont.

Vermont State Police received a burglary complaint on May 1 from a resident who said that several bottles of alcohol were stolen while the homeowners were out. Surveillance video and statements led police to charge Miller with felony burglary.

Miller, 29, was located on Sunday and issued a citation to appear in court on Sept. 26.

The actor, who is best known for roles including the character of Credence Barebone from the "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" series and "The Perks of Being a Wallflower," lives on a farm in Stamford.

The felony charge adds to Miller's mounting legal woes and reports of erratic behavior. The 29-year-old actor was arrested twice earlier this year in Hawaii, including for disorderly conduct and harassment at a karaoke bar. The second incident was for second-degree assault.

The parents of 18-year-old Tokata Iron Eyes, a Native American activist, also earlier this year filed a protection order against Miller, accusing the actor of grooming their child and other inappropriate behavior with her as a minor from the age of 12. Tokata Iron Eyes recently told Insider that those allegations were false.

Attorneys for Miller didn't immediately respond to requests for comment on the Vermont felony charge or the protection order related to Tokata Iron Eyes.

After appearing in several films for Warner Bros. and D.C. Films as the Flash, Miller stars in the upcoming standalone film The Flash, due out in June 2023. Though Warner Bros. last week axed the nearly completed Batgirl film, the studio has suggested it remains committed to releasing The Flash.

In an earnings report last week, David Zaslav, chief executive of Warner Bros. Discovery referenced The Flash. We have seen The Flash, Black Adam and Shazam 2. We are very excited about them," said Zaslav. "We think they are terrific, and we think we can make them even better.

Representatives for Warner Bros. didn't respond to messages Monday.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A federal appeals court sided Tuesday with a House committee seeking access to former President Donald Trump's tax returns, rejecting Trump's contention that Congress was overstepping.

A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit agreed with a lower court judges decision in favor of Congress. U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden  a former Justice Department official and Trump appointee  ruled in December that the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee has broad authority to request the records, and the Treasury Department should provide the tax returns to the committee.

The three appeals court judges agreed.

"The Trump Parties contend that the Chairmans Request exceeds Congresss investigative powers. It does not," the judges wrote. Two of the judges, David Sentelle and Karen Henderson, were appointed by President Ronald Reagan and one, Robert Wilkins, was appointed by President Barack Obama.

In their ruling, the judges also rejected Trump's argument that the request was problematic in part because it did not include a promise to keep the records confidential.

It wasn't immediately clear whether Trump would appeal or whether there'd be a resolution of the case before a new Congress takes office in January. If Republicans recapture control of the House in the fall election, they could drop the request for records next year.

The judges' decision came as the former president continues to be embroiled in legal fights. On Monday, the FBI searched his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House.

The House Ways and Means panel and its chairman, Democrat Richard Neal of Massachusetts, first requested Trump's tax returns in 2019 as part of an investigation into the Internal Revenue Services audit program and tax law compliance by the former president. A federal law says the Internal Revenue Service shall furnish the returns of any taxpayer to a handful of top lawmakers.

With great patience, we followed the judicial process, and yet again, our position has been affirmed by the Courts," Neal said in a statement. Im pleased that this long-anticipated opinion makes clear the law is on our side. When we receive the returns, we will begin our oversight of the IRSs mandatory presidential audit program. The committee said on Twitter that it expected to receive the requested documents immediately."

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., called the decision an important victory for the rule of law.

An email to Trump's attorneys was not immediately returned.

The Justice Department, under the Trump administration, had defended a decision by then-Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to withhold the tax returns from Congress. Mnuchin argued that he could withhold the documents because he concluded they were being sought by Democrats for partisan reasons. A lawsuit ensued.

After President Joe Biden took office, the committee renewed the request, seeking Trump's tax returns and additional information from 2015-2020. The White House took the position that the request was a valid one and that the Treasury Department had no choice but to comply. Trump then attempted to halt the handover in court.

Then-Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr. obtained copies of Trumps personal and business tax records as part of a criminal investigation. Trump tried to prevent his accountants from handing over the documents, taking the issue to the Supreme Court. The justices rejected Trumps argument that he had broad immunity as president. The District Attorney job has since been taken over by Alvin Bragg and prosecutors in charge of the criminal probe have resigned, but Bragg has said the investigation is continuing.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP)  Former FBI agent Mark Rossini, who was indicted in a corruption case against a former Puerto Rico governor, turned himself into federal authorities Tuesday in the U.S. territory and declared himself not guilty, according to officials.

The U.S. Attorneys Office told The Associated Press that Rossinis attorney had reached out to authorities just days after former Gov. Wanda Vazquez was arrested to hand over his client.

Rossini is charged with conspiracy, federal program bribery and honest services wire fraud. He entered a not guilty plea during a brief court appearance in which a judge authorized that he could live in the U.S. mainland but not in Spain, where he is receiving cancer treatment. However, the judge said Rossini could travel to Spain for treatment.

His attorney could not be immediately reached for comment.

Last Thursday, hours after FBI agents arrested Vazquez, federal officials announced they were seeking Rossini, who was in Spain.

Rossini was an FBI agent from roughly 1991 to 2008, when he resigned as part of a plea deal in which he pleaded guilty to criminally accessing a sensitive FBI database for personal purposes. Most of the searches were related to Anthony Pellicano, an infamous private detective for Hollywood stars who was charged in 2006 with wiretapping some celebrities and bribing a police officer.

Authorities said Rossini had provided consulting services to an Italian-Venezuelan banker who had promised to financially support Vazquezs 2020 campaign for governor in exchange for her dismissing the commissioner of Puerto Ricos Office of the Commissioner of Financial Institutions and appointed a new one of the bankers choosing. The banker, identified as Julio Herrera Velutini and founder of Bancredito International Bank & Trust, is believed to be in the United Kingdom and faces charges including conspiracy, bribery and fraud.

Authorities said he was seeking a new commissioner after the bank came under scrutiny for apparent suspicious financial transactions.

After a new commissioner was installed, authorities said Herrera and Rossini paid more than $300,000 to political consultants to support Vazquezs campaign.

On Tuesday, the newest commissioner announced that the bank was being voluntarily liquidated.

What began in 2019 as a routine examination of one of the oldest and biggest international bank entities operating in Puerto Rico today reaches its final chapter, said Commissioner Natalia Zequeira.

She said the process could take up to six months, and that her office will ensure that the bank fulfills its obligations with all its clients. The bank also was ordered to pay $250,000 in sanctions.

Banking officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
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ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP)  Alaska will receive at least $100 million through a new federal program to expand high-speed internet to underserved rural areas and promote workforce development, officials said Tuesday.

U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, an Alaska Republican, coordinated a summit with state, federal and tribal officials in Anchorage, in an effort to ensure parties were on the same page moving forward. Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy signed a bill at the summit establishing a broadband office to help coordinate between all entities.

Sullivan said it is important to seize this incredible opportunity that we have before us, which is to connect every part of Alaska, every village, every community to broadband and other internet activity.

The federal infrastructure package included $65 billion to help ensure all Americans have affordable, reliable and high-speed internet through the Internet for All program. Sullivan said that through this program and others, Alaska could ultimate receive more than $2 billion.

Alan Davidson, the assistance secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce and administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, saw and heard about the needs while taking part in a round-table discussion in Fairbanks on Monday and then visiting the village of Tanana.

The need for affordable, reliable, high-speed internet is great, and the challenge of reaching the unconnected here is immense, Davidson said during a news conference before flying to Bethel to survey needs there.

While in Fairbanks, he announced a $50 million grant to the Doyon Regional Corp. as part of the tribal broadband connectivity program. He said the funding will help connect hundreds of households in 23 Alaska Native communities to state-of-the-art Internet service.

Hundreds of tribes applied for grants last year, five times the amount of funding the agency could accommodate, but Davidson announced an infusion of $1 billion dollars into that fund during his Anchorage visit. He said they can now approve more of the applications they received last year without having to make the tribes reapply.

He also said they have reached an agreement with the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs to streamline the permitting process for building high speed internet networks on tribal lands.

Asked when Alaska Native villages might be connected to high-speed internet, Sullivan said he describes it as a five-year plan, though some areas will have connectivity before others.

We need to plan it, coordinate it and shoot for that long five-year goal of trying to connect everybody in the state, Sullivan said.
HUTCHINSON ISLAND, Fla. (AP)  A 35-year-old Florida man who was recording the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean died when a sand dune collapsed on top of him, sheriff's officials said.

A beachgoer saw a portion of the man's body protruding from the sand on Hutchinson Island early Monday and called for help, the Martin County Sheriffs Office said in a Facebook post.
When President Joe Biden tapped Merrick Garland to lead the Justice Department last year, he selected a cautious appeals court judge known as a political moderate who could build consensus.

Garland, a former federal prosecutor, would attempt to rebuild trust in the sprawling and powerful law enforcement agency after the tumultuous Trump presidency, his supporters said. He would try to convince the public and lawmakers that he was an apolitical attorney general, even as he tackled some of the nation's most contentious political issues.

But the FBI's highly unusual search Monday of former president Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago Club put Garland square in the middle of a huge political firestorm. The search, part of a long-running probe into the possible mishandling of presidential documents, drew praise from Democrats who have been hoping the Justice Department would seriously investigate Trump and the ire of conservatives who decried the search as an abuse of power.

Trump called the court-authorized search "prosecutorial misconduct" and the "weaponization of the Justice System." Some of his supporters say the FBI's action could galvanize Trump's base if he runs for president in 2024.

Republican allies on Capitol Hill denounced Garland and pledged to turn the tables and investigate the Justice Department. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., said the attorney general should resign or be impeached.

The partisan outcry was the opposite of what Garland has sought in his 17 months on the job, during which he has launched multiple high-profile civil rights investigations and efforts to fight gun trafficking and hate crimes, while also overseeing the sprawling investigation of the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol and the unprecedented efforts by Trump and his allies to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.

Time and again, Garland has refused to discuss that probe or any other investigation in progress, whether or not it involves the former president. He has repeatedly pledged to follow the facts where they lead, and to hold anyone who breaks the law accountable, regardless of who that person may be.

For months, Trump's critics - especially, but not limited to, those on the left - pummeled Garland for not moving quickly to investigate Trump on multiple fronts. In recent weeks and months, without fanfare, the Justice Department and U.S. attorney's office in Washington began obtaining communications from people in Trump's inner circle and subpoenaing witnesses to appear before a grand jury, clearly indicating that Trump's actions and conversations had become part of the scope of the Jan. 6-related probe.

"You are undoubtedly going to have people saying that this is the ultimate political act," said Donald Ayer, a deputy attorney general under President George H.W. Bush, said of the raid. "But that's just nonsense. . . . He has a job to do."

The Justice Department would not comment on whether Garland signed off on the FBI raid, and Garland has not discussed it. He made just one public comment on Monday, about the sentencing of three men convicted on federal charges in connection with the murder of Ahmaud Arbery, a young Black man killed while jogging in his Georgia neighborhood.

"The Justice Department's prosecution of this case and the court's sentences today make clear that hate crimes have no place in our country," Garland said in a statement. "Protecting civil rights and combatting white supremacist violence was a founding purpose of the Justice Department, and one that we will continue to pursue with the urgency it demands."

Kristy Parker - a former federal prosecutor and counsel at the advocacy group Protect Democracy - said that while it's inevitable the reaction to the search would be politicized, Garland's silence before and after the search of Trump's property was critical to him building trust in the process. She said it showed the attorney general wasn't trying to appeal to any group during the investigation and has been letting the probe run its course.

"It is important to look at the manner of what is being done, and not just the substance of what is being done," Parker said. "And it's just as important to depoliticizing the department to ensure that no one is above the law as it is to try to avoid prosecuting the president or someone from the opposite political party."

But some lawyers questioned why the Justice Department and FBI would execute such a high-profile search on a former president's residence over missing documents, even if some of them are classified (sitting presidents have broad powers to declassify documents, further complicating the situation).

Stanley Brand, a former House counsel who represents some of the Jan. 6 defendants and witnesses, said that search warrants don't always yield any blockbuster or useful information. He called the FBI search of Trump's property a huge escalation in the investigation of documents improperly taken to Mar-a-Lago. If investigators don't recoup materials that showed that there were serious national consequences for the materials he potentially kept, Brand said, it could tarnish the Justice Department's reputation.

"If they are trying to rebound from the perception that their decision-making was skewed from the Trump Era, this is not going to help that," Brand said. "Part of it depends on what happens hereafter."
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi grand jury has declined to indict the white woman whose accusation set off the lynching of Black teenager Emmett Till nearly 70 years ago, most likely closing the case that shocked a nation and galvanized the modern civil rights movement.

After hearing more than seven hours of testimony from investigators and witnesses, a Leflore County grand jury last week determined there was insufficient evidence to indict Carolyn Bryant Donham on charges of kidnapping and manslaughter, Leflore County District Attorney Dewayne Richardson said in a news release Tuesday.

The decision comes despite recent revelations about an unserved arrest warrant and the 87-year-old Donhams unpublished memoir.

The Rev. Wheeler Parker, Jr., Emmett Tills cousin and the last living witness to Tills Aug. 28, 1955, abduction, said Tuesdays announcement is unfortunate, but predictable.

The prosecutor tried his best, and we appreciate his efforts, but he alone cannot undo hundreds of years of anti-Black systems that guaranteed those who killed Emmett Till would go unpunished, to this day, Parker said in a statement.

The fact remains that the people who abducted, tortured, and murdered Emmett did so in plain sight, and our American justice system was and continues to be set up in such a way that they could not be brought to justice for their heinous crimes.

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Ollie Gordon, another one of Till's cousins, told The Associated Press that some justice had been served in the Till case, despite the grand jury's decision.

Justice is not always locking somebody up and throwing the keys away," Gordon said. Ms. Donham has not gone to jail. But in many ways, I dont think shes had a pleasant life. I think each day she wakes up, she has to face the atrocities that have come because of her actions.

A third cousin, Deborah Watts, who leads the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation, said the case is an example of the freedom afforded to white women to escape accountability for making false accusations against Black men.

She has still escaped any accountability in this case, Watts said. So the grand jury's decision is disappointing, but we're still going to be calling for justice for Emmett Till. It's not over.

An email and voicemail seeking comment from Donham's son Tom Bryant werent immediately returned Tuesday.

In June, a group searching the basement of the Leflore County Courthouse discovered the unserved arrest warrant charging Donham, then-husband Roy Bryant and brother-in-law J.W. Milam in Tills abduction in 1955. While the men were arrested and acquitted on murder charges in Tills subsequent slaying, Donham, 21 at the time, was never taken into custody.

The 14-year-old Chicago boy was visiting relatives in Mississippi when he and some other children went to the store in the town of Money where Carolyn Bryant worked. Relatives told the AP that Till had whistled at the white woman, but denied that he touched her as shed claimed.

In an unpublished memoir obtained last month by the AP, Donham said Milam and her husband brought Till to her in the middle of the night for identification but that she tried to help the youth by denying it was him. She claimed that Till then volunteered that he was the one they were looking for.

Tills battered, disfigured body was found days later in a river, where it was weighted down with a heavy metal fan. The decision by his mother, Mamie Till Mobley, to open Tills casket for his funeral in Chicago demonstrated the horror of what had happened and added fuel to the civil rights movement.

Following their acquittal, Bryant and Milam admitted to the abduction and killing in an interview with Look magazine. They were not charged with a federal crime, and both have long since died.

In 2004, the U.S. Department of Justice Department opened an investigation of Tills killing after it received inquiries about whether charges could be brought against anyone still living.

Tills body was exhumed, in part to confirm it was he. A 2005 autopsy found that Till died of a gunshot wound to the head, and that had fractures in his wrist bones, skull and femur.

In 2006, the FBI launched its Cold Case Initiative in an effort to identify and investigate racially-motivated murders. Two years later, Congress passed the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act.

The Justice Department said the statute of limitations had run out on any potential federal crime, but the FBI worked with state investigators to determine if state charges could be brought. In February 2007, a Mississippi grand jury declined to indict anyone, and the Justice Department announced it was closing the case.

But federal officials announced last year that they were once again closing their investigation, saying there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that she lied to the FBI.

Timothy Tyson, the North Carolina historian who interviewed Donham for his 2017 book, The Blood of Emmett Till, said the newly rediscovered warrant did nothing to appreciably change the concrete evidence against her. But he said the renewed focus on the case should compel Americans to face the racial and economic disparities that still exist here.

The Till case will not go away because the racism and ruthless indifference that created it remain with us, Tyson wrote in an email Tuesday. We see generations of Black children struggle against these obstacles, and many die due to systemic racism that is every bit as lethal as a rope or a revolver.

For Gordon, the renewed attention on the Till case has been a reminder of the social progress it helped spark.

It helps the younger generations identify how far weve come with the many liberties and civil rights that weve gained since Emmetts death, Gordon said. "As his mother would say, his death was not in vain.

___

Breed reported from Raleigh, North Carolina.

Michael Goldberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/mikergoldberg.
BILLINGS, Mont. (AP)  Wildlife advocates sued federal officials Tuesday after the government missed a deadline to decide if protections for gray wolves should be restored across the northern U.S. Rocky Mountains, where Republican-led states have made it easier to kill the predators.

The Biden administration said in a preliminary finding last September that protections for wolves may need to be restored because increased hunting in Idaho and Montana posed a potential threat to wolves across the region.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  Sixteen Idaho cities have rejected a combined $700,000 in federal coronavirus rescue money, and one city that accepted $550,000 might have to return it if it doesn't approve spending it.

Its a small part of the $5.74 billion Idaho received in the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act signed by President Joe Biden in 2021. But it can be a significant amount for some Idaho cities.

Many elected officials at the 16 small cities are volunteers or receive token payments. Some officials said they have been confused about allowed uses for the money or strings attached. Others said the cost of administering and tracking the money outweighs the benefit. Some didn't appear to have the staff or expertise to evaluate federal guidelines for using the money. One mayor said the city declined because they didn't want to declare a health emergency and impose a mask mandate, neither of which was required.

Guidance from the federal government came in late, but it allows cities that receive less than $10 million to consider the relief money as lost revenue. That means it can be used just as the city would spend revenue it received as part of its general operations.

Most of Idahos roughly 200 cities have accepted the money, a total of about $232 million. Idahos nine largest cities received a combined $124 million directly from the U.S. Treasury, with Boise topping that list at $37 million.

The remaining smaller cities received a combined $108 million distributed by the state. But the 16 cities either rejected the money or didn't respond to letters, emails or phone calls from state officials.

Of the 16 cities that haven't taken the money, the south-central Idaho city of Hansen with a population of about 1,400 is leaving the most on the table at about $276,000. But Mayor Joe Ratto said he wants to give it another look now that it's clear the money could be used for infrastructure projects. The city has an annual budget of about $1 million, he said.

We could still use it because we've still got to do upgrades, he said. We can upgrade water. We can upgrade sewer. I believe we can upgrade playgrounds. All three of those things we're working on now to upgrade. We're just a small town trying to make things work."

Alex Adams, Idaho Division of Financial Management administrator, said the $700,000 is in the state treasury, and the state has asked U.S. Treasury officials how to return it. It's not clear if cities that declined their share could still get it if they changed their minds.

The tiny city of Hope on the shore of Lake Pend Oreille in northern Idaho turned down about $21,000. The town has about 100 residents.

All the red tape, and we're a small town, Mayor Bob Breen said. The added cost of just monitoring when the money is handed out. It takes hours and hours of time. Those are real dollars being paid for that.

The northern Idaho town of Wardner, population 250, declined $38,000.

My understanding was you had to declare a mask mandate and a COVID emergency, Mayor Joe Guardipee said. We're a small community, and we didn't feel that was necessary."

Guardipee said it wasn't a political decision, and the city accepted a $68,000 grant from the state to improve broadband that came from federal coronavirus relief funds.

Spirit Lake in the Idaho Panhandle accepted about $545,000, but the city council has declined to spend it. Mayor Jeremy Cowperthwaite said outsiders who don't live in the area show up at city council meetings to argue against using the federal money that Cowperthwaite hopes to use on badly needed water and sewer projects.

As mayor, I would prefer to accept the money and use it wherever Spirit Lake needs to use it, he said. It would be the fiscally responsible way to use it, in my opinion.

The city has an annual budget of about $6.75 million. It needs a new well to meet the demand for water and two more to meet expected growth. It also needs to buy land to expand its sewage treatment capacity.

Island Park, a city of about 300 in eastern Idaho's vacation area not far from Yellowstone National Park, declined about $57,000,

We had the attorney look over things, and there was nothing we could use it for, said City Clerk Reeca Marotz.

She said the city has no public works department because Fremont County takes care of the sewer and all the water comes from private wells.

Other cities that declined the relief money are Acequia ($28,608), Clayton ($1,721), Drummond ($3,442), Hamer ($22,370), Huetter ($24,091), Irwin ($53,129), Onaway ($40,438), Parker ($62,593), Placerville ($12,260), Reubens ($13,766), Swan Valley ($52,699) and Warm River ($645).
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WASHINGTON (AP)  Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omar, a member of the progressive Squad, eked out a closer-than-expected Democratic primary victory Tuesday against a centrist challenger who questioned the incumbent's support for the defund the police" movement.

The evening went far smoother for another progressive, Becca Balint, who won the Democratic House primary in Vermont  positioning her to become the first woman representing the state in Congress.

In Minnesota, a Republican was headed to Congress to serve the remaining months of the late Rep. Jim Hagedorn's term.

And a key race was unfolding in western Wisconsin, where Democratic Rep. Ron Kinds retirement after 26 years in office opens up a seat in a district that has been trending Republican. The GOP nominee vying to replace Kind is a former Navy SEAL who attended the Stop the Steal rally in Washington on Jan. 6, 2021, which preceded the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Some of the top elections:

OMAR SURVIVES TOUGH CHALLENGE

Omar, who represents Minneapolis and is one of the left's leading voices in Congress, has defended calls to redirect public safety funding more into community-based programs. She squared off with former City Councilmember Don Samuels, whose north Minneapolis base suffers from more violent crime than other parts of the city.

Samuels argued that Omar is divisive and helped defeat a ballot question last year that sought to replace the city police department with a new public safety unit. He and others also successfully sued the city to force it to meet minimum police staffing levels called for in Minneapolis' charter.

Samuels said his narrow loss shows that Omar is beatable: If this was the general election, no doubt that we would have won this race." Omar countered, Tonights victory is a testament to how much our district believes in the collective values we are fighting for.

Barb Atkinson, a 53-year-old part-time event planner for a radio station who supported Samuels, called Omar "too far to the left.

Although I respect Ilhan Omar and what shes done, I disagree with the defund the police. I really think that wording sends the wrong message, Atkinson said. She added, "We need our leaders to work together to solve this issue.

Omar, who is seeking her third term in the House, had crushed a similar primary challenge two years ago from a well-funded but lesser-known opponent.

Shes had a lot of adversity already and pushback. I dont think her work is done, said Kathy Ward, a 62-year-old property caretaker for an apartment building in Minneapolis who voted for Omar. Weve got to give her a chance.

Two other members of the Squad  Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan and Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri  won their Democratic primaries last week.

TWO ELECTIONS, ONE SEAT IN SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Voters in southern Minnesota, meanwhile, were deciding two races related to the same seat vacated by Republican Rep. Jim Hagedorn, who died earlier this year from cancer.

Republican Brad Finstad, who served in the U.S. Department of Agriculture during the Trump administration, won a special election to serve the remaining months of Hagedorn's term. Finstad defeated Democrat Jeff Ettinger, a former chief executive at Hormel Foods, in a race that was closer than anticipated in the Republican-leaning district. Both had won a May 24 special primary election to advance to Tuesday's contest.

Finstad and Ettinger will face off again in November for a full term in the district  it includes Rochester and Mankato  after each secured his party's nomination Tuesday. Ettinger faced minimal primary opposition, while Finstad had little trouble dispatching state Rep. Jeremy Munson. Munson said he doesn't think President Joe Biden's victory was legitimate  despite federal and state election officials, courts and Trumps own attorney general saying there was no credible evidence the 2020 presidential election was tainted.

REPLACING RON KIND

Republicans see a pickup opportunity in Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District, the seat being vacated by Democratic incumbent Kind.

The district covers a swath of counties along Wisconsin's western border with Minnesota and includes La Crosse and Eau Claire. Republican Derrick Van Orden was unopposed in his primary Tuesday and has Trump's endorsement.

Van Orden narrowly lost to Kind in the 2020 general election. He attended Trump's Stop the Steal rally near the White House but has said he never stepped foot on the grounds of the Capitol during the insurrection.

State Sen. Brad Pfaff topped three other Democrats to secure the party's nomination and will face Van Orden in the fall. Pfaff, a onetime state agriculture secretary, had previously worked for Kind and received his endorsement.

RARE VERMONT OPEN SENATE SEAT

Vermont is the last state in the country yet to add a female member to its congressional delegation. Balint, who immediately becomes the favorite in November's general election, would also be the first openly gay member of Congress from Vermont.

She was endorsed by some of the nations leading leaders on the left, including Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Pramila Jayapal, chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.

Vermont has chosen a bold, progressive vision for the future, and I will be proud to represent us in Congress, Balint said in a statement.

Balint is vying to fill the states lone House seat, which is being vacated by Rep. Peter Welch who is running for Senate and easily secured the Democratic nomination on Tuesday. Welch is trying to succeed Sen. Patrick Leahy, the Senates longest-serving member, who is retiring, creating Vermonts first open Senate seat since 2006, when Sanders succeeded Jim Jeffords.

Balint defeated Lt. Gov. Molly Gray, an ex-staffer for Welch and has been backed by Leahy and former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean. In November, she'll face Liam Madden, a Marine Corps veteran from Bellows Falls who secured the Republican nomination.

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Associated Press writers Steve Karnowski, Doug Glass and Trisha Ahmed in Minneapolis, Scott Bauer in Madison, Wis., and Wilson Ring in Montpelier, Vt., contributed to this report.

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Follow AP for full coverage of the midterms at https://apnews.com/hub/2022-midterm-elections and on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ap_politics.
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RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  After declaring the decision final, a state court backpedaled Monday and reopened a lawsuit that invalidates a protected area in Brazils Amazon. The judicial reversal is a setback for a cattle rancher dubbed the rainforests worst perpetrator.

The Mato Grosso state prosecutors office announced it was the reopening, saying the states upper court failed to notify the office of its decision, as it is required in lawsuits that involve the public interest. The states upper court confirmed the reversal to The Associated Press.

The Cristalino II State Park stretches for 118,000 hectares (292,000 acres), larger than New York City, and lies in the transition zone between the Amazon and drier Cerrado biomes. It is home to the endemic white-fronted spider monkey (Ateles marginatus), a species endangered due to habitat loss.

In a 3-2 decision, Mato Grossos upper court had ruled that the governments creation of the park in 2001 was illegal because it took place without public consultation. The plaintiff is a company linked to Antonio Jose Rossi Junqueira Vilela, who has been fined millions of dollars for deforestation in Brazil and stealing thousands of hectares (acres) of the Amazon rainforest, including inside Cristalino II.

In 2016, the Vilela family made headlines in Brazil for being at the center of a landmark enforcement operation against deforestation in the Amazon. Brazils attorney general called him the single largest clearer of land in the Amazon.

The state government did not appeal, citing technical reasons, which led the court to declare the decision final in April.

Mato Grosso, Brazils largest soybean-producing state, is run by governor Mauro Mendes, a pro-agribusiness politician and ally of far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, who has repeatedly said Brazil has too many protected areas and vowed not to create more of them.

The legal events happened in recent months, but it was only last week that the local press broke news of the park's dissolution, sparking the mobilization of Brazils environmentalist organizations. Now with the lawsuit reopened, the state prosecutor's office plans to appeal to higher, national-level courts, In the meantime, the state government cannot reverse the park's creation as it had announced it would do last week.

The park continues, said Edilene Amaral, a legal consultant with Mato Grosso Socio-environmental Observatory, a non-profit network, in a statement. Any activity incompatible with full protection remains prohibited and subject to penalties.

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Associated Press climate and environmental coverage receives support from several private foundations. See more about APs climate initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  Palestinians from the occupied West Bank will soon be allowed to travel on flights to Turkey out of an Israeli airport, the Israel Airports Authority said Tuesday.

The move is part of a series of gestures Israel says it is making to improve the living conditions of Palestinians in both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. Critics say the measures do not address the daily humiliations of the decades-long occupation or pave the road for Palestinian statehood.

The airports authority said in a statement that beginning in late August there will be twice-weekly flights from the southern city of Eilat's Ramon airport to Antalya, Turkey, for Palestinians. Flights to Istanbul would begin in September.

There was no immediate comment from the Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the West Bank and cooperates with Israel on security matters.

Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza do not have their own airport and must apply for a hard-to-obtain airport permit to use Israels Ben Gurion International Airport. Such permits are only approved, if at all, shortly before takeoff.

Those in the West Bank wishing to fly abroad must travel to Jordan's capital Amman an hour away, through a crowded Israeli border crossing. The crossing isn't open 24 hours a day, forcing many travelers to pay to stay in a hotel ahead of their flight. There are also travel costs and crossing fees that make the journey an added financial burden.

Gaza has been under an Israeli-Egyptian blockade since the militant Hamas group seized power in 2007, and all movement in and out of the territory is heavily restricted.

An Israeli security official said Palestinians would board shuttles from the West Bank, undergo a security screening at an Israeli crossing and then go through the Ramon airport like any other traveler. The official said the initial phase is a pilot project but could be expanded to additional locations if it is successful.

The official, who was not authorized to discuss the project with media and spoke on condition of anonymity, said the first travelers would leave from the West Bank city of Bethlehem on Aug. 22. There are no immediate plans to allow Palestinians from Gaza to use the airport.

Ramon airport, which is about 300 kilometers (185 miles) from Bethlehem, is Israel's secondary airport, after Ben-Gurion International Airport. It is smaller, has fewer flights and destinations and is less busy. It lies next to the resort city of Eilat.

Israel captured the West Bank and Gaza in the 1967 Mideast war, and withdrew soldiers and settlers from Gaza two years before the Hamas takeover. The Palestinians want both territories to be part of their future state. There have been no serious peace talks in more than a decade.
Issey Miyake, a Japanese fashion designer who became known as the prince of pleats and was widely admired for his bold style and innovative cuts, died Aug. 5 in Tokyo. He was 84.

His death was announced Tuesday by the Miyake Design Studio, which told Japanese media that the cause was liver cancer.

Soon after he launched his design studio in 1970, Miyake rose to stardom in the fashion world, drawing wide acclaim for his fusion of Eastern and Western influences and his experimentation with natural and synthetic materials. He was known best for his pleated clothing, which resisted wrinkles and evoked traditional origami, as well as for making the black turtlenecks that became a sartorial signature of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs.

Working at times with unusual materials - plastic, paper, wire, jute, foil, yarn - Miyake designed free-flowing garments as well as handbags, watches and fragrances that bore his name. His clothes weren't form-fitting like those of his Western counterparts - he championed freedom of movement and often began his sleek designs with a single piece of cloth. His garments were frequently made with minimal decoration and detail, in sweeping shapes and block colors.

"To me, clothes should not be things which confine or enclose the body. . . . Clothes should make one free and feel like being oneself," he said in a 1988 lecture at Rutgers University. "I think they are one of the best ways of expressing the liberation of the body and the mind. Maybe I make tools. People buy the clothes and the clothes become tools for the wearer's creativity."

His designs have been worn by a multitude of celebrities and displayed at museums around the world. There are 136 Miyake stores in Japan and nearly as many others worldwide.

Miyake was born Kazumaru Miyake in Hiroshima, Japan, on April 22, 1938. He was 7 when the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the city in 1945 at the close of World War II, killing tens of thousands of people and leading to the deaths of many others. His mother died of radiation poisoning three years later.

For decades, Miyake avoided discussing the attack, saying he preferred "to think of things that can be created, not destroyed." But in 2009 he reflected on the bombing in an op-ed for the New York Times, urging President Barack Obama to visit Hiroshima and commemorate its victims.

"When I close my eyes, I still see things no one should ever experience: a bright red light, the black cloud soon after, people running in every direction trying desperately to escape - I remember it all," Miyake wrote.

"I did not want to be labeled 'the designer who survived the atomic bomb,' and therefore I have always avoided questions about Hiroshima," he added. "They made me uncomfortable. But now I realize it is a subject that must be discussed if we are ever to rid the world of nuclear weapons."

Miyake studied graphic design at Tama Art University in Tokyo and later went to Paris, where he worked as an apprentice for designers Hubert de Givenchy and Guy Laroche. He also witnessed the student occupations and general strikes of May 1968, an experience that inspired him to design clothing for "the many rather than for the few," as he put it.

He worked in New York City before returning to Japan in 1969 to launch his own studio, and he soon became one of the first Japanese designers to show in Paris.

By the early 1980s, Miyake had started designing corporate uniforms, including a nylon jacket with detachable sleeves for employees at Sony. According to Walter Isaacson's 2011 book "Steve Jobs," the Apple executive sought something similar for his staff. That idea was quickly dismissed by employees, but Jobs became friends with Miyake and took to wearing the designer's black turtlenecks, often pairing them with stiff blue jeans and white sneakers.

"He made me like a hundred of them," Jobs told Isaacson, showing off a stack of turtlenecks in his wardrobe. "I have enough to last for the rest of my life." (Jobs died in 2011.)

Miyake was deeply private, and no information on survivors was immediately available. In interviews, he often said that he tried to look toward the future in his work.

"All I can do is to keep experimenting, keep developing my thoughts further," he said in 1998. "Certain people think that the definition of design is the beauty or the useful, but in my own work, I want to integrate feelings, emotion. You have to put life into it."

---

The Washington Post's Harrison Smith contributed to this report.
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP)  A landowners group will seek more than $275,000 in lawyers fees and other costs after North Dakotas Supreme Court found a state law pushed by the energy industry amounted to the unconstitutional taking of private property rights.

In a ruling last week, the states high court said key portions of the so-called pore space law passed in 2019 have been shown to be unconstitutional on their face.

Government-authorized physical invasions of property constitute the clearest sort of taking, the high courts unanimous opinion said.

Pore spaces are cavities in rock or soil and are used when the petroleum industry injects saltwater from oil and gas production underground for permanent storage or for enhanced oil recovery.

The Northwest Landowners Association sued the state arguing the law was a giveaway to the energy industry, and denied landowners of their right to be compensated for the use of their pore space.

Under the law, landowners couldnt be compensated for pore space when it is used for saltwater disposal or enhanced oil recovery, unless they had an existing contract. Landowners adjacent to a disposal well also could not make a claim that saltwater, a byproduct of oil production, had migrated into their pore space, nor could they sue for trespassing.

The Supreme Court struck down those provisions.

Government-authorized physical invasions of property constitute the clearest sort of taking, the high court's unanimous opinion said.

A state district judge last year ruled the law unconstitutional because it gives the landowners value from pore space to the oil and gas industry for free.

The judge allowed the landowners group to seek legal fees it accrued while fighting the legislation. The state Supreme Court said the lower court did not abuse its discretion in awarding those costs.

The law got wide support in the Republican-led Legislature and was signed by GOP Gov. Doug Burgum, despite strong objections from landowners in western North Dakotas oil patch.

It was one of the most controversial measures of the 2019 Legislative session.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  Over the last year, President Joe Biden watched pieces of his domestic agenda get thrown overboard in an effort to keep it afloat. Free community college, child care funding, expanded preschool  all left behind.

But there was at least one critical piece that emerged largely intact, albeit not unscathed. The legislation approved by the Senate over the weekend includes nearly $400 billion for clean energy initiatives, the country's largest-ever investment in fighting global warming.

The measure, which includes other provisions on taxes and prescription drugs, is expected to be passed by the House on Friday before going to Biden's desk for his signature. In a statement to The Associated Press, Biden said the legislation will help fulfill his campaign promise to build a clean energy future and create jobs for American workers building that future.

Our children and grandchildren will remember this for many years to come: this bill changes their lives and secures their future more than almost anything Washington has done for decades, he said.

For the White House, the final result is proof of an approach  more focused on incentives than regulations or penalties  that was born from the failure to advance climate policy more than a decade ago, when Biden served as vice president.

After President Barack Obama took office in 2009, Democrats began pushing legislation that would create a cap-and-trade program to limit greenhouse gas emissions.

The proposal would have limited emissions and forced industries to buy permits to release emissions, creating a financial incentive to operate more cleanly.

But with the economy still struggling to recover from the recession and Republicans in opposition, the legislation stalled in 2010. Joe Manchin, the West Virginia Democrat who was running for Senate at the time, released a campaign advertisement in which he fired a rifle at a copy of the bill.

Christy Goldfuss, the senior vice president for energy and environment policy at the Center for American Progress, was working on Capitol Hill at the time. She said the failure was absolutely devastating to the climate community, and really led to deep reflection and introspection.

Another setback came in 2018, when voters in Washington state rejected a carbon tax. If the idea couldnt even get traction in such a liberal corner of the country, Goldfuss said, what chance did it have nationally?

Stef Feldman, a domestic policy adviser, said Bidens experience as vice president informed his thinking about climate policy when he started running for the White House in 2019.

He had seen President Obama work very hard to get cap and trade over the finish line, she said. He knew that we had to try something different.

Ali Zaidi, the deputy national climate adviser, said Biden was helped by the fact that clean energy had become more affordable and recognizable in recent years.

This is a set of technologies and a set of solutions for which time has come, he said. He was able to speak to an American people who knew tangibly what this meant, and the economics lined up to propel action.

White House officials said they made a sustained effort to build  and hold together  a coalition involving unions, environmentalists and industry. For example, Zaidi and national climate adviser Gina McCarthy went to Colorado last September for the board meeting of the Edison Electric Institute, which represents utilities. Other meetings involved autoworkers, mineworkers and clean energy companies.

Climate policy was rolled into Biden's largest domestic agenda, which included expanded educational and safety net programs. Biden soon faced a roadblock when a central piece of his plan to push utilities off fossil fuels, known as the clean electricity standard, was left on the drawing board. Then whole thing ground to a halt when negotiations between the White House and Manchin stalled in December.

Manchin began talking again with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., this year, starting with a dinner at an Italian restaurant on Capitol Hill. White House officials kept their focus on him too. Brian Deese, director of the National Economic Council, traveled to West Virginia with Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and and Interior Secretary Deb Haaland in March.

However, negotiations began to break down again last month.

People were holding their breath," Zaidi said.

Behind the scenes, White House counselor Steve Ricchetti kept talking with Manchin, according to administration officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe private conversations. Other Democratic senators kept quiet pressure on Manchin as well to bring him back to the table.

As Biden considered whether to declare a climate emergency, Manchin and Schumer resumed negotiations. They announced a deal on July 27.

Schumer acknowledged in an interview with The Associated Press that climate was hard" to figure out in the negotiations. Manchin is a longtime supporter of coal and oil and Schumer said that I knew that he would add some tough stuff in."

Manchin successfully sought more government auctions for oil drilling on federal lands and waters. He also secured a commitment to help with a natural gas pipeline in his state.

Schumer said he had a north star" during negotiations, which meant substantial reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

"As long as we were reducing the amount of carbon that goes into the atmosphere by 40%  Bidens bill was 45  we could swallow some bad stuff, he explained.

Schumer said, And I talked to some of my caucus members and they said, Go for it, Well have your back if you have to swallow bad stuff to get a good bill.

The final package of climate proposals has been trimmed from the original $555 billion plan, but it's still brimming with financial incentives for clean energy.

Manufacturing solar panels and wind turbines would earn companies tax credits. More money would help Americans buy electric vehicles or make their homes energy efficient.

The bill gives people the tools to be part of the climate solution, and have that make sense for their pocketbook," Feldman said.

There are still some sticks to go along with the carrots.

A crucial element of the bill would charge oil and gas companies fees for excess methane emissions at drilling sites. Methane, the main component of natural gas, is a key contributor to global warming and packs a stronger short-term climate punch than even carbon dioxide.

The methane fee was top priority of Sen. Tom Carper, D-Del., a close Biden ally.

If we want to make real progress on climate change in a short time, a great place to start is methane, Carper said in an interview.

But in a sign of the crucial role played by Manchin, the final version of the bill includes a grant program that rewards energy companies that take steps to lower methane emissions at drilling sites.

Carper called the provision a compromise, noting that he and his staff worked with Manchin to address a series of concerns raised by Joe on behalf of the oil and gas industry.

Regardless of the compromises, environmentalists were thrilled by the outcome after girding themselves for another setback.

This is a legacy-defining win for this administration and a signature achievement for the entire climate community who contributed to it, said Nathaniel Keohane, president of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. After years of inaction in Congress we are now making remarkable and historic progress.

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Associated Press writers Matthew Daly and Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report.
OXFORD, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi judge on Tuesday denied bond for a man suspected of killing a University of Mississippi student who has been missing since early July.

Judge Grady F. Tollison III rejected a request to set bond for Sheldon Timothy Herrington Jr., 22, of Grenada, during a preliminary hearing in Oxford.

Herrington faces a charge of murder in the suspected death Jimmie Jay Lee, 20, whose body has yet to be found after his July 8 disappearance.

The prosecution used Tuesdays court hearing to lay out some of its findings in the case.

At the hearing, the missing student's mother Stephanie Lee testified that she regularly spoke with her son, talking on the phone multiple times each day, news outlets reported. She told the judge her birthday was July 8, the day her son disappeared, and other than an early morning text she did not hear from him at all that day. She said that's when she knew he was no longer with us.

Lee was last seen at an apartment complex where his vehicle was later found.

Stephanie Lee also said Oxford Police told her a police dog detected a scent of decomposition in Herrington's home. Detectives in the case later testified that cadaver dogs alerted three times to the smell of a body in the area.

Officers also obtained a search warrant to view social media conversations on Herringtons phone that showed conversations between he and Lee on the morning of July 8, investigator said. They added that Herrington did numerous computer searches about international travel and found Google searches for how long it takes to strangle someone" minutes after Lee reportedly told Herrington he was on his way to the apartment.

Herrington, under questioning from police, admitted to having a relationship with Lee, according to authorities.

Investigators also learned that Herrington had a moving service in Grenada, Mississippi. They said he brought a box truck to Oxford before taking it back to Grenada.

Herrington's defense team said even though bodily fluids were found on blankets inside of the truck, the evidence was found weeks after Lee went missing and the vehicle could have been used by anyone.

Defense attorneys asked Oxford Police Detective Ryan Baker if there was any trace evidence linking Herrington to Lees death. The detective replied, Not at this time.

The defense also had Herrington's mother as well as a series of church leaders and former teachers take the stand to speak on behalf of Herringtons character and reliability, saying that they do not believe he would be a flight risk if released before trial.

Tollison later denied bond for Herrington. He is being held at the Lafayette County Detention Center.

Federal and local law enforcement agencies, meanwhile, are working to locate Lee or his body. Lees family is offering a $5,000 reward and the Lafayette County CrimeStoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information that would lead to his being found.
KALAMAZOO, Mich. (AP)  A southwestern Michigan man was arrested and charged with first-degree homicide after intentionally running over a 65-year-old woman in a Walmart parking lot Tuesday, authorities said.

The woman was walking in the parking lot located in Oshtemo Township around 12:10 p.m. when a car driven by a 32-year-old Kalamazoo man intentionally hit her, deputies with the Kalamazoo County Sheriffs Office said.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has tested positive for COVID-19.

The Democratic governor said in a statement that she tested positive for the virus Monday evening and is experiencing mild symptoms. Whitmer said she plans to follow proper guidance and protocols, while maintaining a remote schedule.

Whitmer said all of her close contacts from Monday will be notified.

I am grateful for the support of my family, my staff, and the vaccine for offering me robust protection against the virus," Whitmer said. I look forward to getting back to work in person, meeting with constituents, and keeping Michigan on the move.

Whitmer said she is fully vaccinated and has received two booster shots.

I encourage my fellow Michiganders to get vaccinated and boosted," Whitmer said.
(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Shannon Bow O'Brien, The University of Texas at Austin College of Liberal Arts

(THE CONVERSATION) Into the sewer.

That appears to be the intended destination of what look like torn-up presidential documents in photographs released by reporter Maggie Haberman to the news publication Axios, which published them on Aug. 8, 2022.

Haberman has a book coming out on former President Donald Trump in early October. One photo, allegedly of a White House toilet, shows a scrap of paper with what Haberman says is Trumps handwriting on it, sitting at the bottom of the toilet bowl. The other photo, of a different toilet allegedly used on an overseas trip, has several scraps of paper similarly situated, with the name of a Republican congresswoman written on one piece.

This could be the first visual documentation of Trumps already-reported habit of flushing documents down a White House toilet. In response, Trump spokesman Taylor Budowich told Axios, You have to be pretty desperate to sell books if pictures of paper in a toilet bowl is part of your promotional plan.

But even without having to unclog plumbing in search of missing papers, national archivists have their work cut out trying to plug potential gaps in the 45th presidents historical record.

On Feb. 7, 2022, it emerged that 15 boxes of documents and other items that should have been handed over to the National Archives and Record Administration had been found at Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence.

Trump says he was told that he was under no obligation to hand over the documents, but the law suggests he may be mistaken.

Specifically, Section 2071 of Title 18 of U.S. Code states that anyone who willfully and unlawfully conceals, removes, mutilates, obliterates, or destroys records or documents filed in any public office can be fined or imprisoned for up to three years.

Its deemed a more serious crime if documents are classified, where a penalty of up to five years imprisonment can apply.

In both cases, those held responsible are disqualified from holding any office in the United States.

These requirements build a complete picture of events that have lasting consequences. Among the records reportedly incomplete or missing from Trumps tenure in the White House are phone logs from Jan. 6, 2021.

Saving the records

In 1957, the National Historical Publications Commission, a part of the National Archives, recommended developing a uniform system so all materials from presidencies could be archived. They did this to literally save presidential records from the flames: President Warren G. Hardings wife claimed to have burned all his records, and Robert Todd Lincoln burned all his fathers war correspondence.

So the government collects and retains all presidential communications, including executive orders, announcements, nominations, statements and speeches, and any public, oral communications by presidents, which are also placed as public documents in the Compilation of Presidential Documents.

These are part of the official record of any administration, published by the Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration on a weekly basis by the White House press secretary. In most presidencies, the document or transcript is available a few days to a couple of weeks after any event. At the conclusion of an administration, these documents form the basis for the formal collections of the Public Papers of the President.

As a political scientist, Im interested in where presidents give speeches. What can be learned about their priorities based on their choice of location? What do these patterns tell us about administrations?

Barack Obama primarily focused on large media markets in states that strongly supported him. Trump went to supportive places as well, including small media markets like Mankato, Minnesota, where the airport was not even large enough to fly into with Air Force One.

Presidential speeches often give a different perception of an administration. Without all the pageantry, you can quickly get to the point of the visit in the text.

In speeches that President George W. Bush gave in the 2002 midterm election period, he made the same joke more than 50 times as his icebreaker. He would apologize that audiences had drawn the short straw and gotten him instead of his wife, Laura. His commitment to that joke gave a glimpse of his desire to connect to an audience through self-deprecating humor.

I found something odd when I began to pull items from the compilation and organize my own database of locations for the Trump administration. I was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky. I pay attention to my home state. I knew that on March 20, 2017, Trump held a public rally in Louisville, where in a meandering speech he touched on everything from Kentucky coal miners to the Supreme Court and illegal immigrants who were, he said, robbing and murdering Americans.

But when I looked in the online compilation in mid-2017, I couldnt find the Louisville speech. No problem, I thought. They are just running behind, and they will put it in later.

A year later, the Louisville speech was still not there. Furthermore, speeches from Trump rallies were missing. By my count, 147 separate transcripts for public speaking events  just over 8%  are missing from the online compilation of Trumps official presidential speech records.

Whats in, whats out

The Presidential Records Act, first passed in 1978, says administrations have to retain any documentary materials relating to the political activities of the President or members of the Presidents staff, but only if such activities relate to or have a direct effect upon the carrying out of constitutional, statutory, or other official or ceremonial duties of the President.

An administration is allowed to exclude personal records that are purely private or dont have an effect on the duties of a president. All public events are included, such as quick comments on the South Lawn, short exchanges with reporters and all public speeches, radio addresses and even public telephone calls to astronauts in space.

But what Trump said at his large public rallies has so far been omitted from the public record his administration supplied to the Compilation of Presidential Documents. And while historians and the public could get transcripts off of publicly available videos, that does not address the need for a complete official collection of these statements.

Under federal law, presidents are allowed to exclude materials directly relating to the election of a particular individual or individuals to Federal, State, or local office, which have no relation to or direct effect upon the carrying out of  duties of the President.

The law has been interpreted to mean an administration could omit notes, emails or other documentation from what it sends to the compilation. While many presidents do not provide transcripts for speeches at private party fundraising events, rallies covered by Americas press corps likely do not fall under these exclusions.

Why does it matter?

Government documents are among the primary records of who we are as a people.

These records speak to Americans directly; they are not what others tell us or interpret to us about our history. The government compiles and preserves these records to give an accurate accounting of the leaders the country has chosen. They provide a shared history in full.

Since 1981, the public has legally owned all presidential records. As soon as a president leaves office, the National Archivist gets legal custody of all of them Presidents are generally on their honor to be good stewards of history. There is no real penalty for noncompliance.

But these public documents have so far always been available to the public  and theyve been available quickly. Internal presidential documents like memos or email have a rigorous archival procedure that lasts years before they are even accessible. I have a record of every presidential speech from 1945 to 2021  every president since Bill Clinton has all their public speeches available online. Until Trump, there have been no missing public speeches in the permanent collection. By removing these speeches, Trump is creating a false perception of his presidency, making it look more serious and traditional.

And by the way: That 2017 Louisville speech is still missing from the records in 2022. Im hoping it might be found among those 15 boxes.

Editors note: This is an updated version of an article originally published on April 14, 2021. This article was updated on August 9 with a different lead photo showing Trump holding papers.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/new-photos-suggest-how-trump-flush-with-power-may-have-sent-official-documents-down-the-toilet-188423.
Jacksonville Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Benjamin L. Clinton, 37, of 609 E. Independence Ave. was arrested at 1:01 a.m. Tuesday on a disorderly conduct charge after police said he tried to engage in a fight with his roommate.

THEFTS, BURGLARIES

 Multiple bicycles were stolen from a residence in the 200 block of West Beecher Avenue, according to a report filed at 8:15 a.m. Tuesday.

OTHER REPORTS

 An officer stopped two people who were carrying a casket about 2:22 p.m. Tuesday in the 300 block of West State Street. They told police they found the casket in a Dumpster.

Pike County

Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Keith L. Arenz, 58, of Union, Missouri, was booked into Pike County Jail at 3:13 p.m. Aug. 2 on charges of probable cause possession of methamphetamine, unlawful transportation of cannabis by a driver and failing to signal when turning.

 Jon D. Humke, 47, of Springfield was booked into Pike County Jail at 2:33 p.m. July 25 on a charge of driving under the influence.

 Cory L. Culp, 28, of New London, Missouri, was booked into Pike County Jail at 5:47 p.m. July 25 on a petition to revoke probation.

 Lawrence E. Nowlan, 66, of New Canton was booked into Pike County Jail at 10:50 a.m. Aug. 1 on a charge of aggravated battery involving great bodily harm.

 Samantha L. Appelberg, 38, of Lewistown was booked into Pike County Jail at 9:10 a.m. Aug. 1 on an obstructing justice charge.

 William H. Morton, 29, of Frankford, Missouri, was booked into Pike County Jail at 4:40 p.m. July 28 on a petition to revoke probation.

 Dalton W. Whitlock, 30, of Eldred was booked into Pike County Jail at 3:56 p.m. July 27 on a retail theft charge.

 Kelly D. Adams, 36, of Baylis was booked into Pike County Jail at 3:47 p.m. July 26 on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

 Denton T. Bowen, 36, of Barry was booked into Pike County Jail at 10:01 a.m. Aug. 2 on a warrant accusing him of violating bail bond.

Pittsfield Police



ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Josheem D. Leavell, 20, of Springfield was booked into Pike County Jail at 9:44 p.m. July 30 on a charge of driving while license is revoked or suspended.

 Timothy R. Walker, 27, of Pleasant Hill was booked into Pike County Jail at 8:08 a.m. Saturday on a charge of driving under the influence.

 Enrique Lopez, 40, of Decatur was booked into Pike County Jail at 8:41 p.m. July 29 on a charge of operating a vehicle with revoked or suspended registration.

 Elijah A. Hoover, 31, of Milton was booked into Pike County Jail at 12:39 a.m. Saturday on charges of driving under the influence and failing to stop from a private drive.
Andrew Brookes/Getty Images/Image Source

SECAUCUS, N.J. (AP)  The marketing director of a northern New Jersey hospital is facing weapons charges after a bomb threat yielded what police said was a cache of weapons in the hospital.

According to police in Secaucus, the bomb threat  which later was determined to be bogus  was called in to Hudson Regional Hospital on July 18. During a search, bomb detection dogs led investigators to an unlocked office closet containing dozens of firearms.
"Post Reports" is the daily podcast from The Washington Post. Unparalleled reporting. Expert insight. Clear analysis. Everything you've come to expect from the newsroom of The Post - for your ears.

- - -

In this episode:

With the sentencing of Brittney Griner last week, the clock started ticking on potential U.S. negotiations with Russia to secure the release of the WNBA star and another American, security consultant Paul Whelan. But how do prisoner swaps actually work? What are the considerations both countries have to weigh before agreeing? And what happens after a deal is made? Senior national security correspondent Karen DeYoung breaks down the ins and outs of prisoner swaps.

Also, Post Opinions writer Jason Rezaian - who was released as part of a prisoner swap after spending 544 days in an Iranian prison - talks about the growing problem of Americans being taken hostage by hostile governments and what to expect in the Griner case. "I'm asked often if I'm for or against these kinds of exchanges," he said. "My answer is, that's not the right question. The right question is . . . 'What are we doing to deter hostage-taking in the first place?'"
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  A Missouri man has been charged with shooting and killing his neighbor following an argument over lawn mowing, bringing to an end years of hostility between the two, officials said.

Samuel Avery, 42, of Kansas City, was charged Monday with second-degree murder and armed criminal action in the killing of 41-year-old Warner Trotter, who was shot in his head on his front porch, the Jackson County Prosecutor's office said. Trotter was declared dead at hospital.

According to court documents, Avery called police on Sunday to report that he had shot his neighbor. Officers found Avery on his porch next door and arrested him without incident.

Online court records do not list an attorney who can speak for Avery.

Police said officers had been called to the men's homes twice previously because they were arguing over Avery mowing his lawn too early in the day. No one was arrested during those incidents. According to a probable cause statement, Avery told investigators they had been arguing for 10 years.

On the day of the shooting, Trotter complained that Avery's lawn mower was too loud and made a gesture with his hand that he would shoot Avery, according to court documents. Avery said he called the police and was told nothing could be done, then Trotter waved an actual gun around and said nothing would happen to him.

Hours later, Trotter and a woman returned to the home with food from a restaurant. The woman told police she was inside the house when she heard Trotter ask Avery something like, Do you have something to say?

Then she heard several shots.

Avery told police that Trotter reached for a gun before Avery started firing his weapon, according to records.

Footage from security cameras at Trotter's home show him saying something to Avery then starting to enter the house when Avery fired at Trotter several times, according to the statement.

The video clearly shows Trotter did not reach for his weapon at any time, according to the probable cause statement. It also said first responding officers removed a weapon from Trotters waistband before emergency responders began treating him.

Avery's bond was set at $100,000, with conditions that he be on house arrest with a drug and alcohol dependency program. He was also ordered to wear a tracking device and not to possess or be around any weapons.
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The birds no longer sing. The fish no longer swim in rivers that have turned a murky brown. The animals do not roam, and the cows are sometimes found dead.

The people in this northern Myanmar forest have lost a way of life that goes back generations. But if they complain, they, too, face the threat of death.

This forest is the source of several key metallic elements known as rare earths, often called the vitamins of the modern world. Rare earths now reach into the lives of almost everyone on the planet, turning up in everything from hard drives and cellphones to elevators and trains. They are especially vital to the fast-growing field of green energy, feeding wind turbines and Tesla engines. And they end up in the supply chains of some of the most prominent companies in the world, including General Motors, Volkswagen, Mercedes, Tesla and Apple.

But an AP investigation has found that their universal use hides a dirty open secret in the industry: Their cost is environmental destruction, the theft of land from villagers and the funneling of money to brutal militias, including at least one linked to Myanmars secretive military government. And as demand soars for rare earths along with green energy, the abuses are likely to grow.

This rapid push to build out mining capacity is being justified in the name of climate change, said Julie Michelle Klinger, author of the book Rare Earths Frontiers, who is leading a federal project to trace illicit energy minerals. Theres still this push to find the right place to mine them, which is a place that is out of sight and out of mind.

The AP investigation drew on dozens of interviews, customs data, corporate records and Chinese academic papers, along with satellite imagery and geological analysis gathered by the environmental non-profit Global Witness, to tie rare earths from Myanmar to the supply chains of 78 companies.

About a third of the companies responded. Of those, about two-thirds did not or would not comment on their sourcing, including Volkswagen, which said it was conducting due diligence for rare earths. Nearly all said they took environmental protection and human rights seriously.

Some companies said they audited their rare earth supply chains; others didnt or required only supplier self-assessments. GM said it understood the risks of heavy rare earths metals and would source from an American supplier soon.

Tesla did not respond to repeated requests for comment, and Mercedes said they contacted suppliers to learn more in response to this story. Apple said a majority of their rare earths were recycled and they found no evidence of any from Myanmar, but experts say in general there is usually no way to make sure.

Just as dirty rare earths trickle down the supply chains of companies, they also slip through the cracks of regulation.

In 2010, Congress required companies to disclose the origin of so-called conflict minerals  tantalum, tin, gold and tungsten. But the law does not cover rare earths. Audits are left up to individual companies, and no single agency is held accountable.

The State Department, which leads work on securing the U.S. rare earths supply, did not respond to repeated requests for comment. But experts say the government weighs the regulation of rare earths against other green goals, such as the sales and use of electric vehicles. Rare earths are also omitted from the European Unions 2021 regulation on conflict minerals.

The United States offshored its rare earths mining to China in the 1980s because of environmental and cost issues. Chinas leader at the time, Deng Xiaoping, declared rare earths Chinas answer to oil in the Middle East.

For decades the industry prospered. Then, stung by public criticism, officials in Beijing declared war on the countrys dirty industries  including rare earths mining.

As mines in China shuttered, ore prices rose. Thousands of miners streamed across the border to neighboring Myanmar, home to some of the worlds richest deposits of what are known as heavy rare earths.

It reminds me of the European colonial attitudes towards Africa, said an industry analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity to avoid damaging ties with the Chinese government. You just cant be relying on third-world-type mining practices in a dictatorship like Myanmar. Its not sustainable.

Guo, a Chinese miner who did not want to use his full name to talk freely, recounted primitive working conditions in Myanmar, including clouds of mosquitoes and nights spent burning logs in ramshackle cabins. The miners dug hundreds of feet deep with shovels and their bare, callused hands.

Im only responsible for digging the mountain up and selling it, Guo said. The rest is none of my business.  We just see if we can make money. It's that simple."

There is a name for what Myanmar has become: A sacrifice zone, or a place that destroys itself for the good of the world.

The sacrifice is visible from the air, in toxic turquoise pools that dot the landscape covered by mountain jungles just a few years ago. Since rare earth clays in Myanmar are soft and near the surface, they can easily be scooped into these pools of chemicals. Satellite imagery commissioned by Global Witness showed more than 2,700 of these pools at almost 300 separate locations.

A villager who lives along a river some 15 miles from the center of the mining sites said his wife used to catch and sell fish. Now the few they can catch make them ill.

There are no fish along the creek, not even small fishes, said the villager, who asked to be anonymous for his safety. Everything went extinct.

Militias are rampant in these northern forest frontier areas, including at least one tied to the military-backed Border Guard Force. The Myanmar military or Tatmadaw is under international sanctions for human rights abuses after it seized power last year. That means the rare earths money it gets from the militia may be fueling a violent crackdown against civilians. The Myanmar military and militia leaders did not respond to requests for comment.

For Dong, a Chinese miner, the hundreds of dollars he hands to the armed men lining the roads in Myanmar are the price of doing business. He is under no illusions about the damage from acids so strong that they corrode the shovels of his bulldozers and excavators.

This stuff is unbelievable, he said. Its definitely polluting.

In the meantime, villagers protest in one area in northern Myanmar where the black cardamom and walnuts still grow  for now.

They are mining rare earth everywhere and we are no longer safe to drink water, a villager said. There is nothing to support the children. Nothing to eat.

___

AP researcher Si Chen and AP Diplomatic Writer Matthew Lee contributed to this report.

_____

To contact the APs investigations team, email investigative@ap.org.
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KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Powerful explosions rocked a Russian air base in Crimea and sent towering clouds of smoke over the landscape Tuesday in what may mark an escalation of the war in Ukraine. At least one person was killed and several others were wounded, authorities said.

Russias Defense Ministry denied the Saki base on the Black Sea had been shelled and said instead that munitions had blown up there. But Ukrainian social networks were abuzz with speculation that it was hit by Ukrainian-fired long-range missiles.

Videos posted on social networks showed sunbathers on nearby beaches fleeing as huge flames and pillars of smoke rose over the horizon from multiple points, accompanied by loud booms. Crimea Today News said on Telegram that witnesses reported fire on a runway and damage to nearby homes as a result of what it said were dozens of blasts.

Russias state news agency Tass quoted an unidentified ministry source as saying the explosions primary cause appeared to be a violation of fire safety requirements. The ministry said no warplanes were damaged.

Ukraines Defense Ministry said sarcastically on Facebook: The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine cannot establish the cause of the fire, but once again recalls the rules of fire safety and the prohibition of smoking in unspecified places.

A presidential adviser, Oleksiy Arestovych, said cryptically in his regular online interview that the blasts were caused either by a Ukrainian-made long-range weapon or were the work of partisans operating in Crimea.

During the war, Russia has reported numerous fires and explosions at munitions storage sites on its territory near the Ukrainian border, blaming some of them on Ukrainian strikes. Ukrainian authorities have mostly remained mum about the incidents.

If Ukrainian forces were, in fact, responsible for the blasts at the air base, it would be the first known major attack on a Russian military site on the Crimean Peninsula, which the Kremlin annexed in 2014. A smaller explosion last month at the headquarters of Russias Black Sea Fleet in the Crimean port of Sevastopol was blamed on Ukrainian saboteurs using a makeshift drone.

Russian warplanes have used the Saki base to strike areas in Ukraines south on short notice.

One person was killed, said Crimeas regional leader, Sergei Aksyonov. Crimean health authorities said nine people were wounded, one of whom remained hospitalized. Others were treated for cuts from shards of glass and released.

Officials in Moscow have long warned Ukraine that any attack on Crimea would trigger massive retaliation, including strikes on decision-making centers in Kyiv.

For his part, Ukraine's president vowed to retake Crimea from Russia.

This Russian war against Ukraine and against all of free Europe began with Crimea and must end with Crimea  its liberation, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday in his nightly video address. Today it is impossible to say when this will happen. But we are constantly adding the necessary components to the formula for the liberation of Crimea.

Earlier Tuesday, Ukrainian officials reported at least three Ukrainian civilians were killed and 23 wounded by Russian shelling in 24 hours, including an attack not far from the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

The Russians fired over 120 rockets at the town of Nikopol, across the Dnieper River from the plant, Dnipropetrovsk Gov. Valentyn Reznichenko said. Several apartment buildings and industrial sites were damaged, he said.

Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of shelling the power station, Europes biggest nuclear plant, stoking international fears of a catastrophe.

The governor of the region where the plant is situated, Oleksandr Starukh, said Tuesday that radiation levels were normal. But he warned that an accident could spread radiation whichever way the wind blows, carrying it to Moscow and other Russian cities.

A Russian-installed official in the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region said an air defense system at the plant would be reinforced in the aftermath of last weeks shelling. Evgeny Balitsky, head of the Kremlin-backed administration, told Russian state TV that power lines and other damaged portions of the plant were restored.

The Ukrainians in recent weeks have been mounting counterattacks in Russian-occupied areas of southern Ukraine while trying to hold off the Kremlins forces in the industrial Donbas region in the east.

Also Tuesday, a U.S. official said Iran has agreed to supply Russia with drones for use in the war in Ukraine. The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive information, said during the last several weeks, Russian officials conducted training in Iran as part of the agreement for UAV transfers from Iran to Russia.

The White House released satellite images in mid-July indicating that Russians had visited an Iranian airbase to see weapons-capable drones. But U.S. officials said later that month that they had seen no evidence yet of Iran supplying Russia with the drones.

Ukrainian officials this month said Iran has transferred drones to Russia and some have been used in combat.

___

Associated Press writer Chris Megerian in Washington contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
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HOUSTON (AP)  A federal appeals court on Monday restored the death sentence of a bank robber convicted of killing his best friend, his friends fiancee and their three children.

In a 32-page opinion, a three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a lower court ruling that would have freed Ronald Jeffery Prible Jr. if the state did not retry Prible within six months. The panel ruled Prible failed to raise issues sufficiently compelling to discredit his conviction and sentence.
Texas leaders took to social media Monday and Tuesday following the execution of a federal search warrant at the Florida residence of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

FBI agents began their search of Trump's Mar-a-Lago home on Monday morning, according to a New York Times report. The Times cites "multiple people familiar with the investigation" claiming the search was in connection to classified materials allegedly brought to Florida by the former president after leaving the White House.

Trump has denounced the FBI search as an "assault" and "unannounced raid" on social media, and claimed federal agents broke into a safe in his home during their work.

"These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post on Monday. "After working and cooperating with the relevant government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate...They even broke into my safe!"

The search has riled national conservatives, including Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, who took to Twitter Monday night to decry the FBI's actions as "Nixonian"a reference to former U.S. President Richard Nixon, who resigned from office in 1974 following a slew of scandals involving his campaign's targeting of political enemies.

"This is next-level Nixonian," Abbott wrote. "Never before has the country seen an Administration go to such extent to use the levers of government to target a former President and political rival. This is weaponized power to squelch dissent. Such abuses must have limits."

Senator Ted Cruz also condemned the search, which he called "unprecedented" and "an abuse of power," and demanded Congress schedule hearings investigating the FBI.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton also spoke out against the search, framing it as politically motivated.

"Biden's decision to wield the FBI against Trump is a brazen & ill-fated attempt to distract from his own failures, Paxton tweeted Tuesday. "They're fully committed to weaponizing the DOJ to try anything to stop Donald Trump because they know he will hold them accountable."

Congressman Louie Gohmert also weighed in.

This is an absolutely incredible move by the #DOJ to pursue, harass and now invade the former Presidents home, who had authority to declassify documents. As we have seen with many #J6 defendants, the process is the punishment. pic.twitter.com/w3RqxLRDf1  Louie Gohmert (@replouiegohmert) August 9, 2022

"This is an absolutely incredible move by the DOJ to pursue, harass and now invade the former President's home, who had authority to declassify documents. As we have seen with many January 6 defendants, the process is the punishment," Gohmert said in a statement. "Conservatives need to stay peaceful while verbally proclaiming the incredible abuses of these dictator wannabes."
WFO SAN DIEGO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in San Diego has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

The Apple Fire burn scar in...

Riverside County in southern California...

San Bernardino County in southern California...

* Until 730 PM PDT.

* At 436 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain over the Apple Fire Burn Scar. Between 0.25 and 0.5

inches of rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 0.25 to

0.5 inches in 30 minutes. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to

begin shortly.

Excessive rainfall over the burn scar will result in debris flow

moving through the Apple Fire burn scar, including portions of Mill

Creek. The debris flow can consist of rock, mud, vegetation and

other loose materials.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding in and around the Apple Fire

Burn Scar.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of areas in and around

the Apple Fire Burn Scar.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Yucaipa, Mount San Gorgonio, Forest Falls, Beaumont, Banning,

Morongo Indian Reservation and Cherry Valley.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

This is a life threatening situation. Heavy rainfall may cause

extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks, streams, and ditches

in the Apple Burn Scar. Severe debris flows can also be anticipated

across roads. Roads and driveways may be washed away in places. If

you encounter flood waters, climb to safety.

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SAN DIEGO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

Flash Flood Statement

National Weather Service San Diego CA

648 PM PDT Mon Aug 8 2022

...FLASH FLOOD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 730 PM PDT THIS

EVENING FOR SOUTHEASTERN SAN DIEGO COUNTY...

At 648 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy

rain across the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected

to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms producing

flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

I-8 Between Pine Valley And Boulevard, Mount Laguna, I-8 Between

Boulevard And Imperial County Line, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park,

Hwy S2 Between Canebrake And Imperial County Line, Hwy S2 Between

Agua Caliente And Canebrake, Boulevard, Hwy S2 Vallecito Creek Rd,

Pine Valley, Hwy S2 Between Shelter Valley And Agua Caliente, Fish

Creek Wash, Hwy S1 Between Lake Cuyamaca And Mount Laguna,

Manzanita Indian Reservation, La Posta Indian Reservation, Live

Oak Springs, Canebrake, Campo Indian Reservation, Agua Caliente,

Tierra Del Sol and Jacumba.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

In hilly terrain there are hundreds of low water crossings which are

potentially dangerous in heavy rain. Do not attempt to cross flooded

roads. Find an alternate route.

The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a

* Dust Storm Warning for...

Imperial County in southeastern California...

Riverside County in southern California...

* Until 745 PM PDT.

* At 648 PM PDT, a wall of dust was along a line extending from

Desert Shores to 6 miles south of Bombay Beach to near Brawley to 7

miles east of Calexico, moving northeast at 25 mph.

HAZARD...Less than a quarter mile visibility with strong wind in

excess of 50 mph.

SOURCE...Emergency Management.

IMPACT...Dangerous life-threatening travel.

* This includes the following highways...

CA Interstate 8 between mile markers 12 and 83.

CA Route 78 between mile markers 1 and 50.

CA Route 111 between mile markers 1 and 65.

Locations impacted include...

El Centro, Calexico, Brawley, Imperial, Plaster City, Salton City,

Ocotillo, Holtville, Westmorland, North Shore, Salton Sea Beach,

Desert Shores, Bombay Beach, Gordon's Well and Algodones Dunes.

Motorists should not drive into a dust storm. PULL ASIDE STAY ALIVE!

There is no safe place on a highway when a dust storm hits.

Visibility can be lost immediately, making it difficult or impossible

to slow down and avoid stopped vehicles. Delay travel, or safely exit

the highway before the dust storm arrives.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO NEW YORK CITY Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, August 9, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Upton NY has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Hudson County in northeastern New Jersey...

Eastern Passaic County in northeastern New Jersey...

Northern Union County in northeastern New Jersey...

Southern Bergen County in northeastern New Jersey...

Essex County in northeastern New Jersey...

Bronx County in southeastern New York...

Kings County in southeastern New York...

New York (Manhattan) County in southeastern New York...

* Until 715 PM EDT.

* At 628 PM EDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line

extending from Ridgewood to Union, moving east at 25 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Minor hail damage to vehicles is possible. Expect wind

damage to trees and power lines.

* Locations impacted include...

Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Passaic, Bayonne, Wayne,

Mott Haven, Hoboken, Bloomfield, East Tremont, Hackensack, Orange,

Bergenfield and Paramus.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Large hail and damaging winds and continuous cloud to ground

lightning is occurring with these storms. Move indoors immediately.

Lightning is one of nature's leading killers. Remember, if you can

hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with these storms, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
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Muslim charities in the UK are facing increasing difficulties in accessing banking services despite government moves to ease them, the head of an umbrella body has warned.

Fadi Itani, chief executive of the Muslim Charities Forum, said that most of his organisations members are facing issues with banks, with some struggling to transfer money overseas and others unable to access any services at all.

This is despite the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act being introduced in 2018, which was heralded as a crucial step in the right direction towards aid charities being able to access mainstream banking channels without having their accounts frozen.

Many mainstream banks consider NGOs to be at risk of money laundering because some of them operate in high-risk environments such as Syria or Palestine.

To protect against this, some banks employ de-risking practices, whereby they slow down transactions, freeze or close accounts which they think could be at risk of breaches in regulation, particularly around money laundering and counter-terrorism.

Itani said that the issue of de-risking did not go away for Muslim charities since the Acts introduction and that many were suffering in silence.

Maybe for some [the situation has improved], but actually, for the Muslim charities in general, this issue of derisking and banking has been really ongoing, did not really go away, he told Civil Society News.

He added: And the concern we have, which we received through regular updates from charities on this issue, is that it is actually getting deeper.

Hidden discrimination

Itani said he understood that banks needed to protect themselves from penalties but argued that the charities struggling to access services were low risk.

We start to feel that there is a hidden discrimination against certain charities because of the names, the areas they work in, and so on, he said.

He called for greater clarity from banks on what they required from charities in order to provide uninterrupted services to them.

What is missing at the moment [is] a clear framework from banks, what they expect from charities, what is required, what is needed, in order to continue providing services, because they're expecting charities to be transparent in their work, which is understandable, and we encourage and support and we insist on this, he said.

But at the same time when they're making decisions to stop banking or close accounts, they're not transparent at all with why they are doing the decisions.

Itani's comments follow research by the Civil Society Group earlier this year , which found that many charities were facing increased challenges in appropriately managing their finances due to many struggling to find banking services that meet their needs.

Charities reported difficulty accessing physical branches and free accounts, and experiencing onerous bureaucratic processes with lack of understanding about the needs of charities from bank staff.

Itani will chair the Faith Charities Forum on 14 September.

sign up to receive the Civil Society News daily bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
Back in February, Axios shared an early finding from a (still) forthcoming book by Maggie Haberman, a reporter at the New York Times who had heard that, while Donald Trump was president, he apparently would flush documents down the toilet in the White House residence. At the time, Trump denied this, accusing Haberman of making the story up to sell her book and branding her Maggot Habermanbut early yesterday, Haberman shared the (very soggy) receipts, again via Axios, which published photos Haberman obtained showing scraps of paper in the bowls of toilets at the White House and overseas, with visible markings in Trumps distinctive Sharpie scrawl. As the day went on, Haberman popped up repeatedly on CNN to insist that the photos are no laughing matter. If it was a fireplace, if it was a shredder, if it was almost anything else, it would still be the same, she said. It prompts laughs, but its actually not a funny issue.

This is because destroying presidential records is a violation of federal law, and Trump has form in this area: When Axios first shared Habermans reporting in February, it did so in the middle of a much broader news cycle about Trumps document-retention practices, with the Washington Post, in particular, leading the way on a series of stories about the National Archives having to piece together papers that Trump had torn up and retrieve materials, some of them classified, from his Mar-a-Lago residence after he left office. At the time, the Archives reportedly referred the matter to the Justice Department, though it wasnt clear whator ifthe latter was investigating.

ICYMI: A whiplash week on the Biden media seesaw

Yesterday, this news cycle started to spin again with a vengeanceand not just as a result of Habermans toilet photos. In the early evening, Trump announced, with characteristic restraint, that FBI agents had executed a search warrant ator, in his words, raided and occupiedMar-a-Lago, apparently spending several hours there and cracking into a safe. (Trump wasnt present; his attorney Christina Bobb, of One America News infamy, was.) Journalists including Haberman reported that the search was related to Trumps handling of classified and other documents, though details otherwise remained scarce; Justice Department and FBI officials wouldnt talk, while the White House reportedly learned of the operation from the media. The paucity of information, of course, did not stop the search from driving the news agenda all night long. There was talk of Trump facing possible disqualification from public office (though I wouldnt advise holding your breath). On MSNBC, Rachel Maddow told her viewers they might want to buy and keep a print newspaper today, because your grandkids grandkids someday are going to look at that old physical newspaper you were able to save from August 9, 2022, and they are going to goggle at the thought of what your life must have been like. (If youve got MSNBC parents, give them a call tonight, one Twitter user wrote. This is their Christmas.)

The search was a huge story, too, in right-wing media, where talking heads immediately and breathlessly jumped the shark (to use an idiom Trump would hate). Hosts and guests on Fox characterized the search as a preemptive coup, thug, police-state tactics, the Rubicon being crossed, and reminiscent of the Stasiand that was just Buck Sexton. Tucker Carlson, mercifully, was off for the night, but Sean Hannity and Laura Ingraham soon came on and continued the hyperbole, with the latter calling for accountability for everyone when we get power back. (Score one for Team No, Rupert Murdoch isnt breaking with Trump.)

Yesterdays Trump news cycle wasnt limited to the stories about his treatment of public records and its consequences. Ever since he left office, revelations from Trump bookswritten both by former Trump officials and reportershave repeatedly kick-started furious news cycles in their own right (even when the revelations havent been that interesting or revelatory). We saw that again yesterday, not only with Habermans prerelease dump (pun certainly not intended), but also around a highly anticipated new tome from Susan B. Glasser, a reporter at The New Yorker, and Peter Baker, Habermans colleague at the Times. (Glasser and Baker are married.) The New Yorker published an excerpt from the book focused on Trumps war with top Pentagon officials, not least Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who has been a prominent character inand, apparently, source forseveral of the aforementioned Trump books. Glasser and Baker obtained a resignation letter that Milley drafted, but did not submit, in 2020 after he was pictured walking with Trump ahead of the latters violent Bible photo op in Lafayette Square. They also reported that Trump once asked why top military brass couldnt be totally loyal to their commander in chief, like the German generals in World War II.

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Other Trump stories in the news cycle at the moment concern his policy legacy, which is perhaps less common these days. Reports circulated yesterday that talks to restore the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump blew up, could soon bear fruit. And, the day before, The Atlantic dropped a buzzy new cover story: a meticulously reported, near-thirty-thousand-word history of the Trump administrations policy of separating migrant children from their parents en masse at the border. Im one of the many reporters who covered this story in real time, Caitlin Dickerson, the storys author, wrote. Despite the flurry of work that we produced to fill the void of information, we knew that the full truth about how our government had reached this point still eluded us.

Dickerson spent eighteen months trying to reconstruct that full truth, obtaining documents using public-records laws and interviewing more than a hundred and fifty sources, including key players in the implementation of the policy who had not spoken extensively on the record to this point. Among many other findings, Dickerson learned that Trump administration officials misled the media about child separations at almost every stageclaiming that they werent happening, then celebrating the fact that they were, then saying (dishonestly) that they were an unfortunate side effect of necessary border-enforcement work. Top staffers at the Department of Homeland Security themselves didnt believe or even know about media coverage of the policy and the extreme cruelty with which it was being implementeda fog of denial, Dickerson writes, that abruptly dissipated after ProPublica published bloodcurdling audio of children crying out for their parents. Trumps comms staff asked the Justice Department to explain the policy to the press. No one wanted to do so.

Dickersons story is currently among the most popular on The Atlantics website, and the depth of her reporting has won deserved plaudits. As far as I can tell, though, it wasnt covered in any depth on cable news last night as the Mar-a-Lago search flooded the zone. In many ways, thats understandable: while I wont be rushing out to buy a print paper just yet, federal law enforcement executing a search warrant on a former president is clearly a highly significant development, and the apparent grounds for it are intriguing given that Trumps handling of official records hasnt been prominent in recent reporting on his imminent legal woes. The search was also fresh news, whereas the details in Dickersons story mostly date back a while.

Not all the details, thoughthe legacy of the child-separation policy continues to this dayand even those from years ago deserve our urgent attention now that they have been unearthed. Dickersons article is a great example of what Kyle Pope, CJRs editor and publisher, has referred to in the past as journalism as long game, a sport that more of us need to be playingshowing how learning the full truth about matters of great concern can take years. Its also a reminder that, while the disgraceful manner in which Trump left the White House has (again, understandably) dominated coverage of his post-presidency, the policies he pursued while in office still matter, too. And the story helps sharpen the stakes of Trumps desire to return to office beyond the obvious threat to electoral democracy that that would entail; indeed, Dickerson has new reporting suggesting that Trump never wanted to end the child-separation policy and would quickly restore it if given the chance.

In February, with the furor around Trumps records practices, alongside other Trump stories, taking center stage, I wrote that the bar for centering Trump in the news cycle these days should be high given that he is no longer the president and other important stories demand our focus. Trumps ongoing threats to democracy, I wrote, cleared that bar, as did the records-retention storywhich, ultimately, is itself about democracy, and the right of citizens to know how power has been wielded on their behalf. Fast-forward a few months and the Mar-a-Lago search obviously clears this bar, too (even if some of the speculation around it is unhelpful). So, in a different way, does Dickersons story. My problem, back in February, lay more in the medias breathless hyping of less interesting historical details and repetitive punditry about Trumps character, grip on the Republican Party, ongoing electoral potency, and so forth. Were still seeing a lot of that. It would be nice if granular reporting like Dickersons could break through the noise a bit more, and endure.

Dickersons story also clears the bar because it isnt solely a story about Trump, but also an indictment of those who served under him and the broader US immigration system. Some of those who designed and implemented the child-separation policy predated Trumps time in officeTom Homan, who would go on to serve as acting ice director under Trump, first proposed a version of the policy in 2014, only for Obama officials to say noand, in some cases, are still part of the federal bureaucracy now.

As far as I can see, toilets are mentioned twice in Dickersons story. She reports that some of the children snatched from their parents under Trump were so young that they werent potty-trained yet, but the other reference dates further back, to the mid-2010s, when an official recalls having seen more than eighty teenagers crammed into a facility with a single toilet. Both details are about as far from funny as youre likely to get.

Below, more on the latest Trump news cycle:

How the search went down: Reporters on criminal-justice beats sometimes get wind of forthcoming searches, but they didnt in the case of the Mar-a-Lago search, CNNs Brian Stelter notes. The search happened so quietly, so secretly, that it wasnt caught on camera at all, he writes. For the most part reporters didnt catch wind of the FBI action until after it was over. By the time local TV news cameras showed up outside the club, there was almost nothing to see. (News crews did capture Trump supporters gathering outside Mar-a-Lago in the wake of the search, with the Times reporting that some were aggressive toward reporters.) The search was first reported by Peter Schorsch, the publisher of a local outlet called Florida Politics. He told Slate that he heard about it from a longtime source in Republican politics who has a law enforcement background.

Reporters on criminal-justice beats sometimes get wind of forthcoming searches, but they didnt in the case of the Mar-a-Lago search, CNNs Brian Stelter notes. The search happened so quietly, so secretly, that it wasnt caught on camera at all, he writes. For the most part reporters didnt catch wind of the FBI action until after it was over. By the time local TV news cameras showed up outside the club, there was almost nothing to see. (News crews did capture Trump supporters gathering outside Mar-a-Lago in the wake of the search, with the Times reporting that some were aggressive toward reporters.) The search was first reported by Peter Schorsch, the publisher of a local outlet called Florida Politics. He told Slate that he heard about it from a longtime source in Republican politics who has a law enforcement background. An update: Dickersons story wasnt the only recent update on Trumps child-separation policy; last week, Michelle Brane, the head of a task force that Biden established upon taking office, said that the new administration has succeeded in reuniting four hundred children with their parents. More than 5,000 families were separated under Trumps 2018 zero tolerance policy and a 2017 pilot program and advocates estimate over 1,000 remain separated, NBCs Julia Ainsley and Jacob Soboroff wrote. Because the Trump administration did not keep records of which children were separated and where they were sent, the task force and lawyers working on behalf of separated families have had a difficult time identifying families to offer them the chance of reunification.

Dickersons story wasnt the only recent update on Trumps child-separation policy; last week, Michelle Brane, the head of a task force that Biden established upon taking office, said that the new administration has succeeded in reuniting four hundred children with their parents. More than 5,000 families were separated under Trumps 2018 zero tolerance policy and a 2017 pilot program and advocates estimate over 1,000 remain separated, NBCs Julia Ainsley and Jacob Soboroff wrote. Because the Trump administration did not keep records of which children were separated and where they were sent, the task force and lawyers working on behalf of separated families have had a difficult time identifying families to offer them the chance of reunification. The toilet beat: Writing for CJR in 2019, I profiled Flush, a high-end French magazine devoted to covering toilets as a lens on society; its early issues, for example, included stories on sanitary conditions in migrant camps and prisons. Aude Lalo, the magazines founder, told me that Flush was an exercise in journalisme par lobjet, or journalism through the object. Earlier this year, my colleague Feven Merid also profiled a magazine about toilets: Facility, which is based in New York City. The editors saw it as a way to address topics they were interested in, including public spaces, city infrastructure, and the environment, while thinking about gender, race, class, and disability.



Other notable stories:

ICYMI: An encyclopedia of local anchors who ran for office

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Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, Foreign Policy, and The Nation, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop.
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russia and Ukraine traded accusations Monday that each side is shelling Europes biggest nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine. Russia claimed that Ukrainian shelling caused a power surge and fire and forced staff to lower output from two reactors, while Ukraine has blamed Russian troops for storing weapons there.

Nuclear experts have warned that more shelling of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, which was captured by Russia early in the war, is fraught with danger. The Kremlin echoed that statement Monday, claiming that Ukrainian shelling could create catastrophic consequences for Europe.

Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has warned that the way the plant was being run under Russian forces and the fighting going on around it are posing grave health and environmental threats.

Ukraines military intelligence chief, Andriy Yusov, countered the Russian statements by saying his organization had received credible information from several sources that Russian forces have planted explosives at the Zaporizhzhia plant to head off an expected Ukrainian counteroffensive in the region. Previously, Ukrainian officials have said Russia is launching attacks from the plant and using its Ukrainian workers as human shields.

Before Sundays shelling, the nuclear plant came under fire last week and each side accused the other of the attack.

Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Lt. Gen. Igor Konashenkov said Monday that the Ukrainian attack a day earlier at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant caused a power surge and smoke erupted at its switch facility, triggering an emergency shutdown. Fire teams extinguished the fire, and the plants personnel lowered the output of reactors No. 5 and No. 6 to 500 megawatts, he said.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov urged Western powers to force Kyiv to stop attacking the plant.

Shelling of the territory of the nuclear plant by the Ukrainian armed forces is highly dangerous, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. Its fraught with catastrophic consequences for vast territories, for the entire Europe.

But Yusov, Ukraines military intelligence chief, said Monday: We have seen the Russian shelling of the Ukrainian nuclear power plant.

He added that, If its not so, if it doesnt conform to reality, the Russians can make a goodwill gesture and hand over control of the plant to an international commission and the IAEA, if not to the Ukrainian military.

Yusov said the Russians used similar tactics at Ukraines Chernobyl nuclear plant when they had occupied it early in the war.

This is a strategy of terror and scorched earth used by the Russians ahead of an inevitable Ukrainian counteroffensives in the south, he said.

On the high seas, meanwhile, the first of the ships to leave Ukraine under a deal to unblock grain supplies and stave off a global food crisis has arrived in Turkey. The Turkey-flagged Polarnet docked at the port of Derince in the Gulf of Izmit after setting off from the Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk on Friday laden with 12,000 tons of corn.

This sends a message of hope to every family in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia: Ukraine wont abandon you, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba tweeted. If Russia sticks to its obligations, the `grain corridor will keep maintaining global food security.

Yet Polarnet Captain Ahmet Yucel Alibeyler highlighted the risks faced by grain-carrying ships trying to cross the Black Sea.

These were, of course, dangerous areas, corridors that had been cleared, demined, he said.

On the front lines of the war, the Kremlin reasserted Monday that Russia will keep up its military attacks on Ukraine until it achieves its goals.

Ukraines presidential office said Monday that the Russian military shelled seven Ukrainian regions over the past 24 hours, killing five people and wounding 20 more.

Ukrainian forces struck Russian-controlled areas in the south of the country overnight, local officials said, again hitting a strategic bridge in the southern city of Kherson.

The Ukrainian mayor of Melitopol, a Russian-controlled city in the neighboring Zaporizhzhia region, said Ukrainian forces used U.S. HIMARS rocket launchers to shell several facilities where the Russian military was stationed. Mayor Ivan Fyodorov said on Telegram that some 100 Russian troops were killed. His claims could not be independently verified, and the Russian military did not immediately comment.

Kirill Stremousov, deputy head of the Moscow-appointed administration of the Kherson region, said Monday morning that Ukrainian shelling again damaged the Antonivskiy bridge over the Dnieper River.

The bridge, a key artery for Russian military supplies, has been closed in recent weeks because of earlier shelling and plans to reopen it on Wednesday were shelved due to the latest attack, Stremousov said.

Russian forces also kept shelling Nikopol, a city just across the Dnieper River from the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Ukraines presidential office said. Nikopols gas pipelines, plumbing and power lines are no longer functioning, and thousands of people are left without electricity.

A total of 12 ships have now been authorized to sail under the grain deal between Ukraine and Russia, which was brokered by Turkey and the United Nations _ ten outbound and two headed for Ukraine. Some 322,000 metric tons of agricultural products have left Ukrainian ports, the bulk of it corn but also sunflower oil and soya.

Four ships that left Ukraine on Sunday are expected to anchor near Istanbul on Monday evening and be inspected on Tuesday to make sure they are carrying only food items south and no weapons into Ukraine.

But the grain deal remains far from plain sailing. The first cargo ship to leave Ukraine, the Sierra Leone-flagged Razoni, left Odessa on Aug. 1 heading for Lebanon with 26,000 metric tons of corn for chicken feed. But it has run into a business dispute and will no longer dock in Lebanon, the Tripoli port chief told The Associated Press on Monday.

Ukraines embassy in Beirut tweeted Monday that the corns final buyer in Lebanon refused to accept the cargo due to the delivery delay beyond a contractual limit and that the shipper was now looking for another buyer for the corn.

Kareem Chehayeb in Beirut, Mehmet Guzel in Derince, Turkey, and Andrew Wilks in Istanbul contributed.

About the photo: The cargo ship Polarnet arrives to Derince port in the Gulf of Izmit, Turkey, Monday Aug. 8, 2022. The Polarnet is the first Ukrainian grain shipment to arrive at its destination in Turkey under a deal to unblock grain supplies amid the threat of a global food crisis. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
The number of automated teller machine thefts in the United States increased another 10% in 2021 after surging during the previous year, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The FBIs latest Bank Crime Statistics report shows there were 254 thefts from ATMs last year, up from 229 in 2020. Before then, the number of ATM thefts was only a fraction of that. The FBI reported only 31 ATM thefts in 2019, 74 in 2018, 50 in 2017 and 45 in 2016.

Tracey Santor, bond project manager for Travelers, said criminals continue to use stolen equipment in smash-and-grab ATM thefts. She said lately thieves are often using a crow bar to pry the cover off of an ATM machine and a hook and chain to yank the apparatus out of the wall it is attached to. Typically the criminals steal a high-powered truck to accomplish the task.

It takes three minutes to do this, Santor said during an interview the Claims Journal. Usually the police find the truck a mile away.

Santor said ATMs at neighborhood banks typically carry $40,000 in cash, but as much as $250,000 can be loaded into machines located in major metropolitan areas.

Travelers reported a nearly 90% increase in claims related to ATM theft from 2020 to 2021, and a nearly 65% increase in the costs of claims from 2020 to 2021.

Santor said the number of ATM theft claims tripled from 2019 to 2020, so the jump in the number of claims last year amounts to a 600% increase from the level of claims seen in 2019.

Santor said in 2020 and 2021, the skyrocketing ATM theft numbers were linked to specific metropolitan areas, such as a widely reported crime spree in Houston. This year, she said, the crime has spread across the country.

Travelers suggests that financial institutions take these steps to protect ATMs:

Properly secure the ATM cabinet to the wall to prevent forced entry, secure the ATM to both the floor and walls and harden ATM units by selected rugged enclosure cabinetry.

Install barriers around the machine; install multiple surveillance cameras with motion sensors; and post signs warning of security measures.

Install monitored alarm systems; upgrade existing alarm systems to include GPS tracking; and insert dye packets in cash boxes.

Remove or relocate ATMs from areas that are not readily viewable by the public if they arent located within a controlled space; place ATMs that are within buildings away from doorways or exterior walls; maintain adequate lighting surrounding the ATM; and remove bushes, landscaping, signs or other features that reduce public visibility.

Curiously, while the number of ATM thefts has increased, the number of bank crimes overall has decreased dramatically, the FBI statistics show. The total number of bank crimes in 2021 was 1,788, down from 2,440 in 2019 and 3,033 in 2018.

3SI, a Malvern, Pennsylvania company that provides ATM security services, keeps its own records on ATM thefts. The company said there was a 148% increase in ATM thefts and fraud globally from 2019 to 2020. The number increased again in 2021 and so far this year the number of ATM thefts is 165% greater than 2019 levels, according to a blog post by David Dixon, vice president of financial sales. The average amount stolen is $81,000, according to 3SI.

Despite the astonishing numbers associated with explosions, smash-and-grabs, and other cash grabs, there is a far more troubling trend, he wrote. Criminals are getting bolder, looking for additional points of vulnerability and have begun targeting technicians doing maintenance and filling the ATM with cash  where the costs are far more than money and equipment, but human life.

The robbery of an ATM technician in Nashville, Tennessee in June attracted widespread media attention, mostly because one of the gang members arrested for the crime had released a rap video on YouTube in which he brags about robbing ATMs.

Ladesion Riley, 30, who calls himself 213 Jugg god, sings about having thousands of dollars in the car and praying to make it home without being stopped by police, according to a report by the New York Post. Jugging is a slang term for following unsuspecting victims before robbing them.

The Nashville heist resulted in the recovery of the money and the arrest of Riley and three others. Other ATM technician robberies have led to more tragic results.

Dixon, citing press reports, said an armored carrier employee was shot and killed in New Orleans in July 2021 while servicing a drive-thru ATMs. This May, two gunmen ambushed an armored car in Houston and shot a technician who was loading cartridges of cash into an ATM.
JACKSON, Wyo. (AP)  A lightning strike at an outdoors educator course in the Bridger-Teton National Forest in Wyoming killed one student and injured another, officials said Thursday.

The group with the National Outdoor Leadership School was just days into their trip and had set up camp near Enos Lake, south of Yellowstone National Park, when a thunderstorm moved into the area Tuesday evening.

John D. Murphy, 22, of Boston, died of cardiac arrest because of the lightning strike, Teton County Coroner Brent Blue said Thursday. Blue did not know if the lightning struck Murphy directly or passed through something else to him.

The injured student was flown to an Idaho hospital for treatment and released Wednesday, Shana Tarter, the schools associate director for wilderness medicine, told the Jackson Hole News & Guide.

Nine other students, three instructors and two search and rescue members stayed the night in the back country after the lightning strike, school officials said.

Two people at the course who didnt think they were capable of doing the 12-mile (19-kilometer) hike from the lake to the trailhead were flown out by helicopter Wednesday morning and the rest of the group hiked out, said Matt Hansen with Teton County Search and Rescue.

National Outdoor Leadership School President Terry Watson in a statement called the lightning strike a a very sad day for the school, its students and their families.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family of our student who passed away on this course and are focused on supporting their family through its difficult process, she said.

The nonprofit global wilderness school based in Lander, Wyoming, teaches students to become outdoors educators. More than 330,000 students have graduated and there have been 13 deaths at school events during its 57-year history, the school said.

A 20-year-old man training with the school in 2011 fell down a 300-foot (91 meter) ravine into a river while backpacking in India during rainy conditions.

His mother filed a lawsuit against the school, but a Wyoming judge ruled that the contract the man signed releasing the school from liability prevented his survivors from suing the school.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Pacific Airlines faces closure due to financial difficulties

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has just asked Pacific Airlines to report on their current capital condition, and whether they meet the requirements to continue operations.















Pacific Airlines faces closure due to financial difficulties. Illustrative photo



In a notice sent to the airline, CAAV warned that if Pacific Airlines failed to maintain the required minimum capital for three consecutive years, their operational license would be revoked.



As regulated in Decree 89, an airline with a fleet of between 11-30 aircraft should have minimum capital of VND 600 billion. However, Pacific Airlines hadn't met this requirement between 2020-21. The airline even had negative equity by VND2.27 trillion and VND 4.58 trillion in 2020 and 2021 respectively.



Low-cost operator Pacific Airlines is a subsidiary of the national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines Vietnam. Formerly known as Jetstar Pacific, it restored its original brand in 2020 after Qantas sold its 30 percent stake.



Vietnam Airlines shared at a recent shareholder meeting that as of June 2022, they were facing a serious financial crisis due to cash shortfall and large overdue debts that posed the possibility of insolvency and the termination of operations.
China issues second-highest alert for mountain torrents

Xinhua) 08:57, August 09, 2022

BEIJING, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Water Resources and the China Meteorological Administration on Monday issued an orange alert for mountain torrents in parts of the country.

From 8 p.m. Monday to 8 p.m. Tuesday, northwestern parts of Shanxi Province and northeastern parts of Shaanxi Province will be prone to mountain torrents, according to the alert jointly issued by the authorities.

The two departments also issued a yellow alert for mountain torrents in northern parts of both Shanxi and Shaanxi in the same period.

Other regions could also experience mountain floods due to heavy precipitation within a short time, they warned.

Local authorities are advised to strengthen real-time monitoring and flood warning procedures amid measures to brace for evacuation.

China has a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
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Aug. 13, 2 p.m. at WAAAM, Hood River: A 4,562-mile trek by automobile is ambitious for anyone but imagine making the journey in a 1929 Model A Ford Roadster, said a WAAAM press release. Lyon brings the story of his family and the 1930s to life in his work. All those who have taken a long car trip can find a piece of themselves in the story. In addition to Lyons presentation, the museum will have some of its collection out flying and driving for visitors to enjoy firsthand between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The aircraft restoration shop will be open for tours at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Aug. 15, 7 p.m. at The Civic Auditorium Fireside Room, The Dalles: For ticket information, call 541-298-8533 or email tdcivicauditorium@gmail.com.
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Semiconductors are in virtually every electronic device that leaves a factory today, and the US government has planted a flag in the ground as the burgeoning chip industry has become the future of technology manufacturing.

Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, and others have been lobbying the US government to increase domestic chip production, citing problems overseas that have hampered hardware production. In fact, a US Commerce Department report in January said the chip shortage was so bad that at one point in 2021 there was just a five-day supply worldwide  with no sign the situation would improve anytime soon.

Late last month, Congress passed the CHIPS Act, a $77 billion piece of legislation that earmarks subsidies and tax credits for companies designing and manufacturing seminconductors on American shores.

Several Asian nations, including China, South Korea, and Taiwan, as well as the European Union, have also recognized the urgency in laying claim to the vast manufacturing opportunities in the semiconductor industry. They've injected billions in public and private funding to boost chip manufacturing capacity and development.

The tech industry in general, however, faces arguably its greatest dearth of available talent in history, with unemployment rates hovering around 1.7%  less than half that of the overall unemployment rate, according to CompTIA, a nonprofit association for the IT industry.

At the same time, semiconductor behemoths such as Intel, Samsung and TSMC are in the middle of building new chip fabrication plants in the US as part of a massive re-shoring effort. But there's far too little tech talent to fill the needs.

Alphawave Tony Chan Carusone, CTO, Alphawave

Tony Chan Carusone, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Toronto, in January became CTO at Toronto-based Alphawave IP, a five-year old, fabless semi-conductor company with offices in London, Ottawa, Canada and San Jose, California. Last year, while still a fledgling company developing chips for data centers, Alphawave raised $1.2 billion in an IPO led by cornerstone investors BlackRock and Janus Henderson. The IPO spoke to the massive opportunity investors see in developing application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) for a wide variety of new technologies  from IoT devices and AI to data centers supporting cloud services.

Computerworld spoke with Carusone about the challenges the semiconductor industry faces in attracting young talent, particlarly as the industry is often seen as staid and less innovative than the software industry.

The following are experts from that interview:

Tell me a little about your background and Alphawave. "Ive been a faculty member at the University of Toronto for 20 years, teaching electrical engineering and chip design to smart young people. Now, Im also CTO of Alphawave. Were focused on semi-conductors for data center connectivity. So, thats traffic within the data center. Its hidden from the public and its super high-tech stuff thats not in your hands, but those things in your hands rely on our technology for the cloud.

"Alphawave was founded in Toronto by industry veterans. Theyre geeks who founded three companies. Weve now got 250 employees in the US and Canada. Almost all of them are engineers. And we expect to grow to over 600 [employees] by years end.

"So this talent recruitment thing is important to us. Were focused on the design of the chips and engage with partners who fabricate the chips and bring them to market. So, its really a highly skilled workforce were after, entirely.

"Were recruiting for the hardware side. I find it ironic. It should be easy. Its the most transformative technology of our age  clearly; and yet its really hard. Most young, smart, ambitious people getting into the high tech think about computer engineering and software first.

"With my background in university, Im interested in how we can increase the supply of young people and ensure theres enough people for both hardware and software companies."

TSMC Construction of TSMC's 5nm semiconductor plant in Phoenix, Arizona is currently underway and scheduled to begin producing chips in 2024.

How are you dealing with the lack of talent and how your industry is different from other tech sectors in that respect? "I think part of the problem is the semiconductor industry as a whole feels like a really inaccessible technology. First, theres a perception of semiconductors as a staid industry. Its less exciting, there are fewer opportunities for career development and wealth creation compared to the software industry.

"Youve got all these pictures and news stories of folks in white bunny suits doing the actual manufacturing on the factory floor. Thats one aspect that I think is a little misleading. For every person in a white bunny suit on a manufacturing floor or in a clean room, you have a whole host of engineers sitting at their desks writing code or doing all the engineering activity needed to support that manufacturing.

"The reality is semi-conductor design relies a lot on abstraction. Youre not in there engineering one molecule at a time when youre designing a microprocessor. Youre writing code."

"The other thing is on the technology side itself, if youre a young, smart, ambitious person going through school and youre interested in high tech, the semiconductor industry feels like its focused on a dance of molecules. The miracle there seems like it lives in quantum physics. Again, it feels less accessible to you than writing software where you can get stuff working quickly and see your immediate impact and get that feedback. That feels more exciting and dynamic. Again, though, its a bit of a misperception. The reality is semi-conductor design relies a lot on abstraction. Youre not in there engineering one molecule at a time when youre designing a microprocessor. Youre writing code.

"Most of us have never set foot on a manufacturing floor. And yet, were designing products that are in everyones hands and in every data center.

"Thats what I want to emphasize. The hardware industry is one that you can hit the ground running and have an impact quickly and theres already a lot of abstraction involved. For example, if Im designing a chip, its basically writing code these days. If I showed you the code that ultimately gets turned into a chip side-by-side with code compiled for Linux, even an experienced person would have to look at the code for a few seconds to determine which is which.

"The industry is really dynamic and your day-to-day activities and the pace of things is very similar, whether youre doing development for a software product or doing coding and design activity for a hardware product."

What is Alphawave doing specifically to attract talent? "There is a global war for talent and aside from providing competitive compensation, companies must also demonstrate clear opportunities for candidates to work on industry-leading solutions in order to create a truly exciting and compelling value proposition. Alphawave provides that by being the worlds technology leader for connectivity and that is how we are able to attract world-class talent to our company. In addition, we are a very profitable company with no debt, no capital requirements, and a 100% year-over-year growth rate. This stability provides assurance to individuals and teams amid challenges and uncertainties in the market.

Most people think of the semiconductor industry as dominated by a few dominant players. What's the incentive for someone seeking a cutting-edge role in tech? "The general perception of the hardware industry is that R&D is slowing down. Ive heard this comparison made: that its becoming like the auto industry, especially before the EV revolution when the people thought that the most innovation you might see in the auto industry is where to put the cup holder.

"But that perception comes from the idea that all it takes is one powerful CPU and you can write software on it to do whatever is needed. But the idea of the CPU was born in an age when there wasnt enough volume required in different hardware products to justify custom designing hardware for each application. Literally, thats what helped get Intel off the ground back in the 1960s; someone came to them asking them to build a dozen different processors for a dozen different purposes and Intel realized they could just design one chip to meet all the needs because there was not enough [sales] volume to justify doing a custom designed chip for each product.

"Now, things are changing where the volume of semiconductors is so tremendous in all these different areas. Its become quite reasonable and desirable to custom design a solution for each type of product. So, thats where you have different processors being designed for machine learning, whether for training or the actual online use case, or a low-power chip thats mobile and battery operated versus one thats used for the cloud.

"So, you have a proliferation application specific integrated circuits where just as the name suggests, youve got a new design for every different application. And thats a trend thats growing.

"With the new chip designs, thats creating new opportunities for startups. Any startup that can identify a need for a specific application can go off and design a chip tailored for it and win that market. And its not a small market as, again, all ships are rising with the volume of semiconductors increasing.

"Alphawave is a good example of that. It took less than four years to go from founding with five people to unicorn IPO. Thats just one example, and there are others out there."

What is your company doing now and how has it changed from the time it was founded?

"So we focus on connectivity solutions within the data center. We were founded in Toronto, so initially, growth was in Toronto. The founders all came from the University of Toronto. I was a faculty member at the time and still have my appointment there. Because of that strong connection, they were attracting a lot of young people right out of school. Basically, everyone was an engineer. Even today  with 250 employees  almost everyone is an engineer. So, obviously it was an environment where young people coming right out of school were just being thrown into the very cutting edge of technology. We work on the most cutting-edge fabrication technologies.

"Young people have to hit the ground running and have an impact right away. And, that was really successful  the combination of industry veterans and young people enabled us to create over 80 different product IPs in a short time. Thats really remarkable. Usually you think of hardware development as an army of people working for years to develop one product, and each person is just playing a small role. But this is a counter example where you have a small team designing 80 different products in four, four-and-a-half years.

"I think its a great example of what this new age of semiconductor design looks like."

Whats the difficulty youre running into when it comes to universities and colleges not turning out enough electrical engineers? "I think theres a structural issue here. Young people coming into tech are drawn to the software side, and there is a ton of demand there. But the issue is universities are structurally set up so that the interest in computer software is cannibalizing electrical engineering programs.

"Universities shouldnt be set up this way. Theres growing demand for both electrical engineers and computer engineers. So, universities have to increase capacity and not just allow computer engineering and software development programs to cannibalize electrical engineering programs.

"Then the other things that need to happen is to try to change the perception so its understood theres not only a lot of opportunity for young people to hit the ground running and have an impact, but theres also opportunity for wealth creation. Alphawave is one example of that.

"Theres a natural realignment of salary expectations happening. Semiconductor companies are increasing pay to compete. But theres a time consequence to this too, and so that will be shaking out over the next year or two."

What do you need most right now? "We need people that are writing code that can be turned into chips. We write code that describes a chip design and then put it through compilers that get turned into silicon. We need people writing code to validate those designs; we need people writing firmware that will ultimately run on those chips. And we need a way to make sure that firmware will run on our hardware and its all going to work on the application before we get the hardware back from fabrication. So, we need a whole other layer of code thats for our verification environment.

"Those are huge teams. Thats a lot of our growth [as] we move from 250 to 600 people this year."
President Biden on Tuesday signed into law the CHIPS and Science Act, which includes a $52.7 billion package of subsidies and grants to the US semiconductor manufacturing industry, in a move aimed at reducing the countrys dependence on Asian silicon makers and reinvigorating US chipmakers.

Manufacturing incentives form the lions share of the funding in the bill, at $39 billion, but theres also $2 billion for legacy chipmakers who make products critical to automotive and defense systems, $13.2 billion for research and workforce development, and $500 million for supply chain and networking security.

America invented the semiconductor, but today produces about 10% of the worlds supplyand none of the most advanced chips, the presidents office said in a statement. The CHIPS and Science Act will unlock hundreds of billions more in private sector semiconductor investment across the country, including production essential to national defense and critical sectors.

US chipmakers start investments in manufacturing

Two major US chipmakers have already committed to expanding their domestic manufacturing facilities, in the run-up to the acts passge. Qualcomm, in partnership with GlobalFoundries, said Monday that it would invest $4.2 billion to expand the latter companys facility in Malta, NY.

Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat for New York, one of the key legislative supporters of the bill, said that the move is terrific news for industry and the community.

This deal to 2028 proves what we have always known  that the industry will grow here when we are competitive with Asia and Europe, he said in a press release. With major new federal incentives for microchip manufacturing in the U.S., I look forward to many more announcements like this to come.

The other major deal announced was memory manufacturer Microns commitment to $40 billion in new capacity spending, a move that the Biden administration said could create as many as 40,000 new jobs.

While the bill enjoyed bipartisan support in Congress and is generally popular in most quarters of the technology industry, some companies arent thrilled about what was left out of the CHIPS and Science Act.

According to Gartner Research vice president and analyst Gaurav Gupta, US-based chip designers and some fabless semiconductor companies have expressed irritation that the bill provides the vast majority of its funding for manufacturers onlynot for other parts of the silicon sector.

If you talk to folks in the industry, youll get that view that its not going to benefit everyone equally, he said in an interview with Computerworld last month.

Nor will the Act solve the semiconductor industrys broader issues on its own, according to Forrester vice president and research director Glenn ODonnell, who said that problems caused by supply chain failures and Russias invasion of Ukraine will continue to be felt for the foreseeable future.

Big problems in the semiconductor market will take a long time to resolve, he said in a statement. Also, the US government will need to establish oversight bureaucracy before it can disburse any investments.
Like it or not, vegetables are good for us. Chowing down on some broccoli or kale can help us build strong bones, reduce our risk of chronic diseases, and deliver the vitamins our bodies need. And yet, the CDC reports that only 10% of American adults eat enough veggies  even though they likely know they should.[1] Companies are the same when it comes to security.

Cybercrime is predicted to cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, up from $3 trillion a decade ago and $6 trillion in 2021.[2] There are 921 password attacks every second  almost double what we saw a year ago. There is one simple action businesses can take to protect against 98% of attacks, but 38% of large companies and 62% of small to mid-size companies dont do it.[3] In fact, across industries, only 22% of customers using Microsoft Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), Microsofts Cloud Identity Solution, had implemented strong identity authentication protection as of December 2021.

Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an additional layer of protection, so even if threat actors know an organizations or employees password, they still wont be able to gain access to their network. So, if strengthening a companys cybsecurity posture is as easy as enabling MFA, it begs the question: Why wont companies eat their vegetables?

Whats stopping companies from enabling MFA?

Every enterprise is different. They are made up of different business verticals, have different goals, and operate under different budgets. But despite all those differences, we see a few trends across them all when it comes to the reasons they dont deploy MFA.

It costs too much

Microsoft provides MFA for free with Azure AD. Even those using the Azure AD Free tier can take advantage of Azure AD MFA by using the security defaults. Security defaults were created to make managing security a little easier. The goal is to ensure that all organizations have at least a basic level of security enabled at no extra cost. Enabling the security defaults delivers Azure AD MFA for all users, blocking off legacy protocols like IMAP4 and POP3, and protects privileged activities like access to the Azure portal.

Those who own Azure AD Premium P1 or P2 can also utilize Conditional Access, which delivers more flexibility in how and when a user is prompted for additional factors.

They think their users will hate it

Our goal is to allow our users to be productive wherever and whenever they are working while still protecting the organization. Conditional Access is our modern approach to MFA. Instead of prompting a user for a second factor every time they authenticate, we look at several different elements to determine if something has changed or is unusual about this user before we prompt them. We look at things like where the user is signing in from, whether their device is healthy, and if theres any suspicious behavior  for example, if the user typically signs in from France and someone tries to sign in with their credentials from Seattle at the same time, something is definitely wrong.

Through risk-based Conditional Access, Azure AD automatically responds to threats based on adaptive security policies that security team defines. For example, they can invoke MFA or force a password reset for a sign-in identified as risky. Policies can be based on user location, device platforms and state, applications, or risks.

We also make it easy on the end users by giving them choices on how they want to supply the second factor when they do get a prompt. No fancy equipment is required. Users can choose something as simple as an SMS message or phone call, though we recommend stronger authentication methods like the Microsoft Authenticator App, OATH tokens, or a FIDO2 security key. They can even have multiple devices that use different methods for different environments and have backup devices in case they lose one or forget one at home.

Its too hard to deploy

Another reason enterprises give for not implementing MFA is that its too difficult to deploy. When it comes to protecting Azure AD, MFA doesnt require a physical server or any kind of software installation. Just configure a Conditional Access policy and go.

Weve recently added Conditional Access templates to make configuring the policies even easier. Security teams can quickly create a new policy from any of the 14 built-in templates. They help companies provide maximum protection for their users and devices and align with the most commonly used policies. These include things like Require multifactor authentication for admin or Require password change for high-risk users. Microsoft also offers a list of recommended policies, and organizations can target Conditional Access policies to a specific set of users, apps, or devices to easily deploy different policies at scale.

Ultimately, our end goal is to make it as easy as possible for an enterprise to protect itself, and its users, from ongoing cybersecurity threats. And enabling MFA is just one tool in a security teams kit. Companies can learn more about the latest cybersecurity threats and what steps they should take with Microsoft Security.

To learn more about Microsoft Security, visit us here.

[1] https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7101a1.htm?s_cid=mm7101a1_w

[2] https://www.okyo.com/resources/articles/cybercrime-economic-heist-of-the-century

[3] https://www.cpomagazine.com/cyber-security/mfa-and-the-consequences-for-companies-who-dont-use-it/
NEW MILFORD  When Greg Mullen opened the Gregory James Gallery and Framing in 1996, he leased a small storefront on Bridge Street in downtown New Milford.

Several addresses later, Mullens shop now occupies a 3,200-square-foot, newly remodeled space on busy Route 202, also known as Park Lane Road.

The shop, which opened in mid-July, is in a perfect spot to catch the eye of both year-round visitors and the growing horde of city people who are moving to Litchfield County. But the gallerys steady growth is also a testimony to Mullens strong reputation in the New Milford area, earned via an acumen for expert framing and a keen eye for fine art.

I began as a framing shop, and I was initially part-time, said Mullen, who grew up in New York City but moved to New Milford during his high school years. Mullens parents are artists: His father was a painter and a filmmaker, while his mother was a musician who also taught culinary courses.

Mullen himself was technically inclined. After several career starts, he ended up working on a team for Nestle that remodeled company facilities. The work was steady and somewhat creative, but Mullen grew restless. So, he completed a class in framing and worked part-time at several local frame shops.

This led to Mullens decision to open his own shop. To avoid the financial hit that would have followed quitting a full-time, corporate role, he initially kept part-time hours at his shop. Hed work a full day for Nestle, get to the shop at 5 p.m. and work late into the night.

The business grew and two years after opening its doors, framing and art became a full-time endeavor for Mullen.

Increased business

The new location is the gallerys fifth home and is the first building that Mullen has owned. It is three-quarters of a mile up Route 202 from his last storefront, which he rented. That old building is up for sale, prompting Mullen to search for larger, permanent quarters.

Mullens new space is about 800 square feet larger than the former location. This larger footprint will come in particularly handy for art shows, which Mullen plans to restart this fall. This will mark his first public exhibition since the COVID-19 pandemic began in early 2020.

The state shut me down for three months in 2020 because my business was considered nonessential, Mullen said. Then, as soon as I opened my doors again, traffic picked up and hasnt slowed down since.

Much of that new traffic came from newcomers to the area, who have moved to New Milford and surrounding towns from New York City and other urban settings. The unprecedented uptick in home prices and strong home sales greatly boosted his framing business. Art sales used to constitute half of his business, with framing the other half. Now, framing makes up about 75 percent of his business.

All those new buyers are decorating their new homes, which is driving up sales, he said. Some of these are very large homes, so now Im often framing some very large works of art.

As an example, Mullen held up a 48 x 96-inch abstract painting that just fits one of his worktables. To his advantage, the Gregory James Gallery is the only frame shop for miles around. A store several miles south on Route 202 went out of business about five years ago, although the building still has a sign on it.

These days, most new business comes from word-of-mouth, referrals, Google searches and positive online reviews. This marks a sea change from the late 1990s, when Mullen purchased newspaper and Yellow Pages ads to get noticed. Today, Google makes searching hyper-local  which means customers find him on their own computers or phones.

The framing shop is, in particular, very much a convenience business, said Mullen, which means customers want service provides who are close to home. Mullen also maintains a Facebook page and uses a local public relations specialist to publicize the shop and its work.

The art

Customers often arrive with their own unstretched canvases in tow, which is when Mullen truly shows off his talents. Each edge of a canvas must be slowly  and painstakingly  stretched onto a frame built expressly for to the paintings dimensions.

Mullen points out that even in the most skilled hands, using a poor-quality stretching frame will not yield the quality results Mullen wants. For that reason, he uses a line of well-crafted stretching frames made in Canada.

The art gallery features the work of approximately 15 to 20 artists, most of whom live and work within a 100-mile radius. Local landscape artists are always in abundance, but there is a smattering of contemporary and abstract paintings as well.

The late Woldemar Neufeld has been described as the gallerys signature artist. The shop has more than 50 originals by Neufeld, who specialized in linocuts and watercolors of scenes throughout New York City and New England.

Another established artist on display is Roxburys Frank Metz, whose work specializes in semi-abstract pastel landscapes and water scenes. Also on display are works from contemporary artist Jorge Silveira, who uses scraps of trash to compose his works. But Mullen also seeks out emerging talent, including a multicolored mixed media self-portrait ink-and-acrylic painting by Greg Orban.

Mullen has also established a strong reputation among local interior designers  which brings in new business for both framing and artwork.

Art is one of the last items new home buyers will add, he said. After theyve purchased furniture and appliances, thats when they contact me.

We help talented artists gain the support and recognition they deserve and sell their artwork, said Mullen. Meanwhile, those who purchase the art, or come in for framing, enhance their homes with things that are beautiful, special, and inspiring. Its been wonderful experience to be at the center of all those creative exchanges.

The Gregory James Gallery is located at 149 Park Lane Road in New Milford; phone 860-354-3436. You can also peruse some of the stores collection of art at https://gregoryjamesgallery.com/.
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP)  Atlantic City casino dealers opposed to smoking indoors are rejecting an idea being floated among state legislators to create designated outdoor smoking areas that employees could opt out of staffing.

Pete Naccarelli, a Borgata dealer and a leader of a group of Atlantic City casino workers pushing for a full indoor smoking ban, said Tuesday the opt-out suggestion is not the solution to protecting workers and customers.

The so-called opt-out idea only forces workers to risk their health for a paycheck," he said. "It is not a solution at all.

A casino worker living paycheck to paycheck should not have to risk their health by working in a smoking area just to get by," he said. "But thats exactly what would happen, and the most vulnerable workers would suffer most. Legislators should recognize the problematic scenario this would create and reject this half-baked idea.

Last week dealers said that creating true outdoor smoking areas could be a workable solution as long as no worker is exposed to secondhand smoke.

But having any casino workers assigned to those areas  or evening having to pass through them on their way to other places in the casino  is not acceptable to them.

A bill that would ban smoking inside Atlantic City's nine casinos has sat untouched in the Democrat-controlled state Legislature since February. An identical bill died in last year's session, even though Democrat Gov. Phil Murphy has said he will sign it if it passes.

As of Tuesday, no legislative committee hearings had been scheduled for the bill, to which half the state Legislature has signed on as sponsors or co-sponsors.

The bill would close a loophole in New Jersey's indoor smoking law that makes casinos virtually the only indoor workplaces in the state where smoking continues to be allowed.

The Casino Association of New Jersey, the trade association for Atlantic City's casinos, opposes a smoking ban, fearing it would lead to job and revenue losses. Smoking opponents reject those assertions, pointing to places in other states where non-smoking casinos are outperforming competitors that allow it.

___

Follow Wayne Parry on Twitter at www.twitter.com/WayneParryAC
MEXICO CITY (AP)  They call him El Jefe, he is at least 12 years old and his crossing of the heavily guarded U.S.-Mexico border has sparked celebrations on both sides.

El Jefe  or The Boss  is one of the oldest jaguars on record along the frontier, one of few known to have crossed a border partly lined by a wall and other infrastructure to stop drug traffickers and migrants, and the one believed to have traveled the farthest, say ecologists of the Borderlands Linkages Initiative, a binational collaboration of eight conservation groups.

That assessment is based on photographs taken over the years. Jaguars can be identified by their spots, which serve as a kind of unique fingerprint.

The rare northern jaguars ability to cross the border suggests that despite increased impediments, there are still open corridors and if they are kept open it is feasible (to conserve) the jaguar population in the long term, said Juan Carlos Bravo of the Wildlands Network, one of those groups in the initiative.

But some fear for the jaguars future. Although it was the government of President Donald Trump that reinforced and expanded the border wall with Mexico, the Biden administration has announced plans for closing four gaps between the U.S. state of Arizona and the Mexican state of Sonora  the two states the jaguars traverse.

Conservationists do not know how many jaguars there are in the Sierra Madre Occidental, but of the 176 that have been identified over two decades by the Northern Jaguar Project  another group in the initiative  only two others besides El Jefe are known to have crossed the border, Bravo said. In one case, conservationists are not sure if the jaguar crossed the border alive or dead since only its skin was found.

The first photograph of El Jefe was taken by a hunter southeast of Tucson, Arizona, in 2011, Bravo said. The jaguar became famous in Arizona and a local school named him El Jefe. Motion sensor cameras installed in transit areas photographed the jaguar in Arizona again in 2012 and in 2015.

Conservationists were stunned when they confirmed that a photograph taken by another member of the coalition, Profauna, last November in the center of Sonora was El Jefe. The discovery meant not only that jaguars could still cross the border but that other jaguars they had lost track of could also still be alive, the initiative said in a statement.

Hunted in the southwestern United States for rewards offered by the government to promote cattle ranching, they were thought to have disappeared from the U.S. by the end of the 20th century. Jaguar populations are currently concentrated on Mexicos Pacific coast, southeastern Mexico, Central America and central South America.

A sighting of jaguars in the United States in 1996 prompted studies that found a reproductive point in the center of Sonora.

The NGOs banded together to operate on both sides of the border to track the cats, create sanctuaries, understand where they moved and seek the support of landowners in the U.S. and Mexico to protect them, Bravo said.

Besides the difficulty of determining where to put cameras to record the animals and the subsequent analysis of the images, conservationists in Mexico face another problem: drug cartels.

There is a presence of armed groups and drug traffickers who pass through the same isolated areas as the jaguars, Bravo said by telephone from Sonora. It is important to move carefully, work with the people in the communities that tell us where not to go. ... All of this is making it very, very complicated.

The border is the main challenge for hopes to repopulate the American Southwest with jaguars, with walls impeding movement by those animals as well as the American antelope, the black bear and the Mexican wolf, Bravo said. Light towers and the roads used by the Border Patrol also are a problem, he added.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi grand jury has declined to indict the white woman whose accusation set off the lynching of Black teenager Emmett Till nearly 70 years ago, most likely closing the case that shocked a nation and galvanized the modern civil rights movement.

After hearing more than seven hours of testimony from investigators and witnesses, a Leflore County grand jury last week determined there was insufficient evidence to indict Carolyn Bryant Donham on charges of kidnapping and manslaughter, Leflore County District Attorney Dewayne Richardson said in a news release Tuesday.

The decision comes despite recent revelations about an unserved arrest warrant and the 87-year-old Donhams unpublished memoir.

The Rev. Wheeler Parker, Jr., Emmett Tills cousin and the last living witness to Tills Aug. 28, 1955, abduction, said Tuesdays announcement is unfortunate, but predictable.

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The prosecutor tried his best, and we appreciate his efforts, but he alone cannot undo hundreds of years of anti-Black systems that guaranteed those who killed Emmett Till would go unpunished, to this day, Parker said in a statement.

The fact remains that the people who abducted, tortured, and murdered Emmett did so in plain sight, and our American justice system was and continues to be set up in such a way that they could not be brought to justice for their heinous crimes.

Ollie Gordon, another one of Till's cousins, told The Associated Press that some justice had been served in the Till case, despite the grand jury's decision.

Justice is not always locking somebody up and throwing the keys away," Gordon said. Ms. Donham has not gone to jail. But in many ways, I dont think shes had a pleasant life. I think each day she wakes up, she has to face the atrocities that have come because of her actions.

A third cousin, Deborah Watts, who leads the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation, said the case is an example of the freedom afforded to white women to escape accountability for making false accusations against Black men.

She has still escaped any accountability in this case, Watts said. So the grand jury's decision is disappointing, but we're still going to be calling for justice for Emmett Till. It's not over.

An email and voicemail seeking comment from Donham's son Tom Bryant werent immediately returned Tuesday.

In June, a group searching the basement of the Leflore County Courthouse discovered the unserved arrest warrant charging Donham, then-husband Roy Bryant and brother-in-law J.W. Milam in Tills abduction in 1955. While the men were arrested and acquitted on murder charges in Tills subsequent slaying, Donham, 21 at the time, was never taken into custody.

The 14-year-old Chicago boy was visiting relatives in Mississippi when he and some other children went to the store in the town of Money where Carolyn Bryant worked. Relatives told the AP that Till had whistled at the white woman, but denied that he touched her as shed claimed.

In an unpublished memoir obtained last month by the AP, Donham said Milam and her husband brought Till to her in the middle of the night for identification but that she tried to help the youth by denying it was him. She claimed that Till then volunteered that he was the one they were looking for.

Tills battered, disfigured body was found days later in a river, where it was weighted down with a heavy metal fan. The decision by his mother, Mamie Till Mobley, to open Tills casket for his funeral in Chicago demonstrated the horror of what had happened and added fuel to the civil rights movement.

Following their acquittal, Bryant and Milam admitted to the abduction and killing in an interview with Look magazine. They were not charged with a federal crime, and both have long since died.

In 2004, the U.S. Department of Justice Department opened an investigation of Tills killing after it received inquiries about whether charges could be brought against anyone still living.

Tills body was exhumed, in part to confirm it was he. A 2005 autopsy found that Till died of a gunshot wound to the head, and that had fractures in his wrist bones, skull and femur.

In 2006, the FBI launched its Cold Case Initiative in an effort to identify and investigate racially-motivated murders. Two years later, Congress passed the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act.

The Justice Department said the statute of limitations had run out on any potential federal crime, but the FBI worked with state investigators to determine if state charges could be brought. In February 2007, a Mississippi grand jury declined to indict anyone, and the Justice Department announced it was closing the case.

But federal officials announced last year that they were once again closing their investigation, saying there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that she lied to the FBI.

Timothy Tyson, the North Carolina historian who interviewed Donham for his 2017 book, The Blood of Emmett Till, said the newly rediscovered warrant did nothing to appreciably change the concrete evidence against her. But he said the renewed focus on the case should compel Americans to face the racial and economic disparities that still exist here.

The Till case will not go away because the racism and ruthless indifference that created it remain with us, Tyson wrote in an email Tuesday. We see generations of Black children struggle against these obstacles, and many die due to systemic racism that is every bit as lethal as a rope or a revolver.

For Gordon, the renewed attention on the Till case has been a reminder of the social progress it helped spark.

It helps the younger generations identify how far weve come with the many liberties and civil rights that weve gained since Emmetts death, Gordon said. "As his mother would say, his death was not in vain.

___

Breed reported from Raleigh, North Carolina.

Michael Goldberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/mikergoldberg.
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CONCORD, N.H. (AP)  A jury on Tuesday acquitted a commercial truck driver of causing the deaths of seven motorcyclists in a horrific head-on collision in northern New Hampshire that exposed fatal flaws in the processing of license revocations across states.

Volodymyr Zhukovskyy, 26, of West Springfield, Massachusetts, was found innocent on seven counts of manslaughter, seven counts of negligent homicide and one count of reckless conduct in connection with the June 21, 2019, crash in Randolph. Jailed since the crash, he appeared to wipe away tears as the verdict was read and briefly raised his index finger skyward before leaving the courtroom.

Jurors deliberated for less than three hours after a two-week trial during which prosecutors argued that Zhukovskyy  who had taken heroin, fentanyl and cocaine earlier on the day of the crash  repeatedly swerved back and forth before the collision and told police he caused it. But a judge dismissed eight charges related to whether he was impaired, and his attorneys blamed the lead biker, Albert Woody Mazza Jr., saying he was drunk and not looking where he was going when he lost control of his motorcycle and slid in front of Zhukovskyys truck.

Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. Our trial team did an excellent job and we firmly believe that the State proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt," New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella said in a statement.

Zhukovskyys family, some of whom attended the trial, said in a statement they were grateful to God, the court and the defense attorneys for an honest and fair trial.

Our family expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends affected by this tragedy," the family said, describing him as a very honest and kind man. He would never have done anything to hurt anyone.

Zhukovskyy, who was born in Ukraine, remained jailed as of late Tuesday afternoon. It is unclear when he might be released. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued an immigration detainer on him after the crash and that was executed following the verdict, said Ben Champagne, the superintendent at the Coos County Department of Corrections.

ICE said in a statement that Zhukovskyy has been served a notice to appear before an immigration judge and will remain in ICE custody pending the outcome of that appearance. It did not say where he is being held.

All seven motorcyclists killed were members of the Jarheads Motorcycle Club. After the verdict, a member of the Marine group reached through Facebook declined to comment. Mazza's father, also named Albert, said he was stunned.

Killing seven people and he gets off. That is unbelievable, said Mazza. He described his son as a good man who devoted much of his time to charity, and said it was wrong to pin blame on him.

It doesnt make much sense," he said. "There are seven people dead. There are seven families affected. It's strange that he didnt get something.

The motorcyclists who died were from New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island and ranged in age from 42 to 62. They were part of a larger group that had just left a motel along U.S. Route 2 in Randolph.

Killed were Mazza, of Lee, New Hampshire; Edward and Jo-Ann Corr, a couple from Lakeville, Massachusetts; Michael Ferazzi, of Contoocook, New Hampshire; Desma Oakes, of Concord, New Hampshire; Daniel Pereira, of Riverside, Rhode Island; and Aaron Perry, of Farmington, New Hampshire.

In closing statements Tuesday morning, the two sides raised questions about who was more all over the place: the trucker accused of swerving back and forth across the road or the eyewitnesses accused of contradicting each other.

Those witnesses were all over the place about what they recalled and what they claimed to have seen, said defense attorney Jay Duguay.

Duguay also accused prosecutors of ignoring that their own accident reconstruction unit contradicted their theory that Zhukovskyy crossed into the oncoming lane. An expert hired by the defense, meanwhile, testified that the crash happened on the center line of the road and would have occurred even if the truck was in the middle of its lane because Mazzas motorcycle was heading in that direction.

From the beginning of this investigation, the state had made up their mind about what had happened, evidence be damned, said Duguay, who also highlighted inconsistencies between witness accounts or when witnesses contradicted themselves.

In particular, Duguay suggested that the bikers shaded their accounts to protect Mazza and the club. Prosecutor Scott Chase acknowledged some inconsistencies, but asked jurors to remember the circumstances.

People were covering the dead, trying to save the barely living, comforting the dying. This wasnt story time, he said. They were up here talking about some of the most unimaginable chaos, trauma, death and carnage that we can even imagine three years later. They were talking about hell broke open.

Witnesses were consistent, he argued, in describing the truck as weaving back and forth before the crash. That behavior continued until he killed people, Chase said.

Thats what stopped him. Its not that he made some responsible decision to start paying attention or do the right thing, he said. The only thing that stopped him was an embankment after he tore through a group of motorcycles.

Chase called the attempt to blame Mazza a fanciful story and frivolous distraction, while reminding jurors that Zhukovskyy, who didnt testify at trial, told investigators Obviously, I caused the crash.

He was crystal clear from the very beginning that he caused this crash, Chase said. That is what he said, because that is what happened.

Zhukovskyys commercial driving license should have been revoked in Massachusetts at the time of the crash because of a drunken driving arrest in Connecticut about two months earlier.

Connecticut officials alerted the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, but Zhukovskyy's license wasnt suspended due to a backlog of out-of-state notifications about driving offenses. In a review, federal investigators found similar backlog problems in Rhode Island, New Hampshire and at least six other jurisdictions.

___

Associated Press Writers Michael Casey and Kathy McCormack contributed to this report.
There have been no confirmed cases of monkeypox in Connecticut children, but with some exposure among children in other states, state public health officials are preparing.

At the end of July, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky said there had been two cases of monkeypox identified in children. This month, a group of children in Illinois were exposed when a worker at a day care tested positive for monkeypox.

Connecticut has so far received 3,628 doses of monkeypox vaccine Jynneos, and while the vaccine is not approved for use in patients younger than 18, there are provisions being made.

In Illinois, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration made individual exceptions for exposed children, and Department of Public Health spokesman Chris Boyle said that could happen in Connecticut, too.

Boyle said there are single patient emergency use authorizations available from the FDA, and the CDC is developing an expanded-access investigational new drug protocol to allow broader use of Jynneos in the pediatric population.

If a Connecticut resident under the age of 18 needs vaccination for post-exposure prophylaxis, DPH will work with partnering health care providers to complete the single-patient emergency use authorization from FDA, Boyle said. We have already been in touch with CDC and other stakeholders to ensure we are prepared.

University of Connecticut virologist Paolo Verardi said younger children are particularly at risk from monkeypox, as well as immunocompromised patients.

The types of people that are most susceptible are the ones that are very young and they have an underdeveloped immune system, he said. So, young children, anybody thats immunosuppressed, and you may be immunosuppressed because they may be taking a drug for an autoimmune disease.

Its not that children are more likely to contract monkeypox, Verardi explained, but that children, the elderly, and those that are immunosuppressed or immunocompromised are at the highest risk of developing more severe disease.

As of Monday, there have been 30,189 confirmed cases of monkeypox globally and 8,934 confirmed cases in the United States of which 48 are in Connecticut, according to the CDC.

The virus has, for the most part, been found among middle-aged men, but Verardi said it is transmissible by physical exposure to infected lesions, respiratory means and, though its less likely, indirect contact with infected surfaces.

That includes touching monkeypox lesions that sometimes can be hard to notice, or touching and using objects such as toys, clothes, and bedding of someone that is infected, he said.

The virus that causes monkeypox is very thermo-stable, which means the virus can stay in the environment without losing infectivity for quite some time, Verardi explained. Children are very active, social, and tactile, so spread in settings like schools and day care facilities is something we need to consider, particularly if the outbreak continues to evolve and infections become more widespread in diverse populations.

Boyle said the state will formally coordinate strategy with schools and child care centers on monkeypox mitigation, if and when the data demonstrates the necessity: The data dictates the response, right now we are not seeing a need to issue any additional guidance than what has already been released.

Though the U.S. declared the monkeypox outbreak a public health emergency earlier this month, transmission levels in Connecticut are still low, Boyle said.

We are not at a state public health emergency level or pandemic level, he said. As we monitor the data, DPH  in collaboration with school districts and local health departments  will assess guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on educating school districts and daycares on monkeypox.

Though a formal guidance for schools is being formulated, Boyle said DPH is already coordinating with schools.

Many school nurse supervisors participate in a weekly Connecticut Department of Public Health/Local Health Department call already. DPH provides a weekly update on monkeypox on those calls, Boyle said. So, in effect we have been providing information to school districts already.

Verardi said that having protocols in place that allow for vaccination of patients under the age of 18 is important, its not the endgame.

We should have been better prepared in the first place when it comes to availability of vaccines, and we need to be ready for the possibility of needing to vaccinate our kids more widely and not just after known or potential exposure, he said.
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The heat wave in Connecticut is leading to more than just scorching conditions. New studies have reported that the high temperatures are creating an environment ripe for more disease-carrying ticks  and ticks that are more aggressive toward humans.

The EPA reported that studies provide evidence that climate change has contributed to the expanded range of ticks, increasing the potential risk of Lyme disease. Ticks that carry Lyme disease, known as deer ticks, thrive in hot and humid conditions like those found in Northeast summers.

Summers in Connecticut have been warming year after year, and Inside Climate News reports the Northeast is becoming the fastest warming region in the U.S. Under these conditions, Science.org says ticks are living longer and biting more people. A Mic.com 2020 report stated that ticks are twice as likely to latch on to humans when temperatures get warmer.

Contributed Photo / USDA/Contributed Photo

Not only are ticks thriving in areas they could not previously live, but areas that already had large ticks populations, like Connecticut, are seeing an increase in the bugs, as reported by the Hartford Courant. Hot and humid temperatures are leading to more and different kinds of ticks, like the American dog tick, the black-legged tick and the newest addition, the lone star tick. This means that there is now a wider variety of tick-related illnesses circulating in Connecticut. In fact, earlier this year, Connecticut reported two cases of the rare Powassan virus, a potentially fatal disease that comes from the deer tick. One woman in Connecticut died from the virus two weeks after she was bit by an infected tick; she was the second death from Powassan virus in the U.S.

And its not just the summers. Connecticuts warmer, shorter winters are giving ticks more opportunities to survive rather than die off from cold weather as they did years ago. A report from the National Library of Medicine said more people are being exposed to ticks because of this. Shorter winters allow people to get outside sooner for spring and summer activities, giving more time for exposure to tick habitats and leading to more tick-related illnesses.

The CDC says the majority of Lyme disease cases already occur in Connecticut, and it is urging residents to be aware of coming in contact with infected ticks. Dr. Goudarz Molaei of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station previously told Hearst that the Fairfield and New Haven areas specifically are seeing higher numbers of tick populations.

Molaei told Hearst when doing tick surveillance in some of these towns it takes maybe less than an hour for us to collect over 800 ticks.

With tick season now being virtually year-round, federal and local health agencies are telling Connecticut residents to protect themselves from tick bites and tick exposure. The Connecticut Department of Public Health recommends people take the follow steps to prevent tick-borne diseases:
Faye Griffiths-Smith and Yanely Espinal may impact your familys life in a fundamental way. In their respective advocacy roles with the Connecticut affiliate of Jump$tart Coalition and Next Gen Personal Finance, Griffiths-Smith and Espinal want Connecticut to make personal finance a requirement in high school curricula, arguing many students head into the larger world lacking an adequate grasp of how to balance their income and expenses  a surefire formula for stress and possible financial duress.

As many of us can attest, financial health is directly linked to emotional wellbeing in the context of reducing stress. Florida became the largest state in the nation to enact such a requirement this year, with Rhode Island having also made the commitment to push the total to 14 states.

We spoke with Griffiths-Smith and Espinal about the importance of a formal education in personal finance for students who do not pursue electives in the topic, or are enrolled in schools that do not offer them at all.

Looking for a fun way to get kids thinking about money in the context of a lifetime of needs? There are plenty of games and downloadable activities online from Next Gen Personal Finance, the Council for Economic Education, Junior Achievement, Money Prodigy, Visa and others online.

Why havent more states and schools made financial wellness part of the required curriculum, as is the case with health education?

Griffiths-Smith: There have been surveys that indicate that there is a goodly portion of the public  usually 80 percent or better  who are very much in support of children getting a financial education. Thats been consistent for quite a while now, but exactly how you make it happen I think is where sometimes the momentum has reached a pause.

A personal finance class, depending on how its structured, might be able to meet qualifications for perhaps a math class or credit for social studies  certainly business, certainly family and consumer sciences.

Espinal: Students are demanding it themselves  they themselves recognize that a lot of the coursework they are taking is not relevant to their everyday lives.

Parents, students, teachers, superintendents, community members, politicians  theres so many people coming at this with their opinions, and so trying to make sure everybody is heard and that this is rolled out in a way that is fair to all parties is the challenge. But its an exciting challenge because so many states are figuring out how to do it and I dont think its going to be a barrier much longer.

Student loans are the first major financial commitment many teens take on. How many truly understand the burden they face on the other side?

Griffiths-Smith: Young people dont have a sense necessarily of how much money they are going to make in the future in certain occupations, and what it costs to live  and they are making decisions about student loans, without necessarily a lot of forethought about what the impact may be.

Espinal: Whether they are going to go directly into the workforce, or into the military or to college, all of these decisions have a financial component. We say, Oh, you will be making financial decisions when you go to college or get a job  but we dont actually teach them and share the tools.

For kids who do not take personal finance in school, how should parents go about ensuring they get interested in learning the ropes?

Griffiths-Smith: Often what I have found is that as parents are getting ready with their older teens for college, they often realize, Oh my  they need to know more about finances because they are going to need to manage more things on their own.

Its really being open  and that is a personal decision  but sharing some of that basic information. How do we balance things? How do we make difficult decisions when there is only so much money? What factors into making the best decisions we can about how we are going to spend our money?

Espinal: The pandemic has reminded us how precarious so many of our finances are, when emergencies come up and we dont have the savings and the fundamental understanding on how credit works and how borrowing works. Even coming out of that, there can still be an impact going forward on this idea that you could lose this at any time, and so how do you operate with money when thats our mindset? The only way is to understand basic money management and financial principles, and building a long-term plan.
EASTON  Contaminated fill spread out near wetlands has residents asking questions, but officials say the problem has been resolved.

The fill came from the Easton Village Store, which is owned by Marcel Hurbel. In February, Hurbel removed two gas tanks from in front of the store, along with the fill around it. The contamination comes from leaks from previous tanks that were removed about 25 years ago, according to Hurbel and town officials.

That dirt was held on a tarp on the Easton Village Store parking lot for months, until a separate contractor, who did not know it was contaminated, spread it on the back of the property - and possibly also placed some of it onto the adjacent property, although it depends on who you ask.

That adjacent property owner was Steve Montgomery, a member on the Conservation Commission. He did not respond to requests for comment.

Knowing that a permit is required to spread fill near wetlands, which are just a couple hundred feet away from the area, Montgomery brought the issue to the full commission, according to Chair Dori Wollen.

If you drove by, you could see the soil, she said. But nobody ever thought anything about it because we didnt know it was contaminated.

Wollen said the town reached out to Hurbel, who had the soil removed, but some of it it was later found spread again. She said DEEP came out to test the soil, and it was found to be contaminated.

In a statement, DEEP communication manager Paul Copleman said the agency was notified of the underground storage tank removal and the accompanying soil contamination in February, and then were also notified in July about the stockpiled soil initially removed from the site being spread on the site.

We have been in direct contact with the owner and their consultant as we seek additional work on the site, including additional surveys, and proper disposal of the contaminated soils, he said, adding DEEP is in the process of expanding public documentation access, so reports and follow-up work regarding DEEP-regulated underground tanks on cases like these will be more searchable and readily available to the public on CT DEEP Document eSearch.

First Selectman David Bindelglass said the main reason this issue took so long to get on the towns radar is because municipalities do not have jurisdiction over commercial tank removals, only DEEP does. He said the town plans to take the steps it can to ensure something like this does not happen again.

Meanwhile, residents are concerned that the soil, which has since been removed, may have contaminated the wetlands, the wells of nearby residents and even the Easton Reservoir. Bindelglass and Hurbel say that DEEP told them those concerns are mostly unwarranted.

DEEP is convinced theres no damage or potential damage to the reservoirs and stuff, Bindelglass said. Whether theres any threat to the neighbors wells, there probably should be some testing.

The soil

Bindelglass said the only town official Hurbel notified bout the tank removal was the fire marshal, as that is all that is required by state law. He said it has become a he said, she said situation between all the parties in town

The neighbor (Montgomery) takes the position that If I hadnt done anything, nobody would have done anything, he said.

Bindelglass said he has looked into everybodys role in the situation, and that nobody really did the wrong thing other than Hurbel not getting a permit to spread the soil.

At which point, someone would have said, Wait a minute, wheres your soil coming from? he said.

Hurbel, and town officials, said the contamination dates back 25 years to a previous owner. He said he had the pit that contained the tanks dug up and cleaned out.

The soil was in the parking lot for a while, so there was some drifting from that, Hurbel said. But that has all been removed and cleaned. Everything has tested negative. Theres no further contamination.

Hurbel said none of the soil was spread onto the adjacent property when it was there, disputing claims from Wollen that it went onto Montgomerys land. He said only a small portion of the dirt was ever used on the back of the property, but it and more has been removed.

Hurbel said he will continue to follow what regulators recommend. He said one of the reasons it took so long to get the fill off the property is because Connecticuts contaminated fill processing center was closed at the time.

Therefore, Hurbel said, he had to coordinate to get the fill shipped to a processing place in New Jersey, which took some time. It was finally moved away in the beginning of July.

Wollen acknowledged the majority of the issue has been solved, but said the Conservation Commission has issued Hurbel several violations for moving soil around near wetlands, which requires a permit to do. She said he needs to apply for a retroactive permit for each violation with a doubled fee, costing several hundred dollars.

He has to come to our next meeting, which is at the end of August, she said.

Bindelglass said Hurbel had hired an environmental consultant, who recommended monitoring the property and the wells of adjacent properties. But that has not been done yet to his knowledge, he said.

Overall though, Bindelglass said environmental officials are not largely concerned. He said his focus now is preventing it from happening in the future.

Residents concerns and officials taking preventative actions

Bindelglass said most of the planned changes are procedural. One change, he said, would be ensuring that there is always communication between the fire marshal and the building inspector when a project like this is taking place.

Were going to make it a procedural thing so that theres more sets of eyes on this, he said.

Bindelglass said the town will also ask for soil test results for every commercial or residential tank removal. While officials cannot enforce that, they hope it will allow the building inspector to pay attention to its disposal, he said.

On the Conservation Commission side, Bindelglass said he wants to make sure the commission gets involved with issues like this even if the dirt in question is more than 100 feet away from the wetlands  the distance at which the commission has oversight.

In a Board of Selectmen meeting Thursday night where the soil issue was discussed, one resident, June Logie, called the incident a failure of the water protections system.

Everybody thought somebody else was watching, she said. Have we examined how this happened? Have we determined a process by which this is going to be remediated?

Logie asked if there were reports about how much contaminated soil there was, where it is now and what needs to be done at the Easton Village Store, as well as if Aquarion Water Co. had been looped into it.

How are we fixing it? she said. What entities are going to be involved?

Bindelglass said a report from DEEP should be finished soon that would answer most of her questions, reiterating that the state department has signaled that there is not much cause for concern.

That doesnt mean that its pristine. It is to DEEPs satisfaction, he said.

joshua.labella@hearstmediact.com
FAIRFIELD  New sidewalks and other improvements are coming to town thanks to $3.75 million in state bonding the town recently announced to help make roads safer.

The money is split into two projects and focuses on bike and pedestrian safety, and making intersections more accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In order to maintain and improve Connecticuts quality of life, we need to prioritize and protect our residents health and safety, Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz said in a statement.

First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick said there are many projects in the towns capital plan and the towns state delegation selected these two to be considered for state bonding.

I always appreciate federal or state funding to help offset the costs for projects on Fairfields capital list, she said.

About $1.75 million will be used for bike and pedestrian safety improvements on Route 130 between Shoreham Village Road and the Post Road Circle.

This includes adding new sidewalks to connect to and be included in the Post Road Circle design, which has been in the work for quite some time, Kupchick said.

The preliminary design work can go ahead but the final design and construction will have to be approved by the state Department of Transportation, she said.

The other $2 million will be allocated for pedestrian safety and ADA improvements for the intersections at Churchill Road and Wilson Street, and Route 59 and Churchill Road in Stratfield.

This includes realigning Wilson Street and Fairfield Woods Road, and reviewing and improving Churchill and Stratfield roads, Kupchick said.

These dollars will go towards protecting those residents who bike or walk through these very busy areas in town every day, Bysiewicz said. The much-needed safety improvements are important for both neighbors and businesses, and this funding to address these concerns will bring new life to these areas in the Fairfield community.

State Rep. Cristin McCarthy-Vahey said the funding was critical.

With four schools and a senior living facility in this neighborhood corridor, this project will ensure that students, families, and seniors will all have safe pedestrian access to the community, she said in a statement.

Fairfield has been encouraging more walking and biking, working with the towns bicycle and pedestrian committee to add more bike routes and other improvements.

Officials say walking and biking to get around instead of using vehicles improves air quality, along with residents health and fitness. It also reduces traffic and the need for parking and can boost the local economy by giving more access to local businesses and offers more potential for tourism.

Providing safe and accessible roadways to all who use them in our community is a baseline necessity, state Rep. Jennifer Leeper said in a statement.

She added the project will also better connect the Post Road traffic circle with the neighborhoods and residents along Route 130.

This work is important for neighbors and businesses alike, and Im excited for the benefits this funding brings to our community, she said.

State Sen. Tony Hwang said the work on Route 130 will help ease congestion and make it safer. He added this latest money for the Stratfield area, along with the previous bonding for the Stratfield Road and Fairfield Woods Road intersection, will make it safer for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists.

The work is part of the Four Corners project that has been going on in the Stratfield neighborhood for a few years. It has been championed by a group of residents who live there.

We are fortunate in Fairfield to have a responsive Stratfield Village Association and the Fairfield Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee, both of whom advocate to ease the challenges that people face using various modes of transportation in town, Hwang said.
BRIDGEPORT  Firefighters battled a blaze at a three-story house on Fairfield Avenue Monday night that displaced 30 people, officials said.

The fire was originally reported around 9:10 p.m. by multiple people who could see flames and smoke coming from the third floor, said Scott Appleby, spokesperson for the city.

Crews called for a second alarm within minutes as the flames were spreading, Appleby said.

The American Red Cross was working to find lodging for eight families including 15 adults and four children who were displaced by the blaze, the organization said. The scene was still active at 7 a.m. as officials were trying to determine if any residents were injured, Appleby said.

Check back for more information.
DERBY  The city has several open staff positions from fire marshal to an economic development assistant director. The jobs offer good salaries and benefits. But how many people have actually applied for them?

According to Mayor Rich Dziekan, not many.

Its very tough and Ive been on the phone all day, just calling everybody I know, all my connections throughout the state, saying Listen, I got positions coming up, Dziekan said.

Derby isnt the only city facing this issue. According to the Rockefeller Institute of Government, which is a policy think tank at the State University of New York, municipal workers across the country are leaving their jobs due to stress and burnout. The result is there arent enough qualified people to fill those positions.

But if the situation Derby finds itself in is not unique, Derby is uniquely vulnerable to losing its employees, according to Mo Cayer, a lecturer for the University of New Havens management and psychology departments. Derby is located near larger municipalities such as Shelton and Ansonia, and simply cannot match the salaries other municipalities can offer, he said.

Another problem in Derby, according to a pair of city alderwomen, is the atmosphere in City Hall.

Anita Dugatto, a Democrat who backed Finance Director Agata Herasimowicz when she faced possible termination by Dziekan despite an accounting report clearing her of serious wrongdoing, said there was a culture of disrespect toward city employees. She cited a city official that had taken to working out of the Board of Education offices.

These are symptoms of the toxic culture of not respecting your workers as smart humans and not supporting them with the tools they need to do their job, she said. Who would want to apply to jobs in this environment?

Sarah Widomski, a fellow alderwoman and Democrat, has previously said morale is low, stating that the administration was unilaterally changing past practices without communicating to the employees or unions.

She said such an action doesnt help improve the already low morale at city hall and called it disappointing to say the least.

Widomski was referring to a payment issue with city employees health care plans.

Dziekan, a Republican, pushed back on claims of tension at City Hall, saying city employees are happy at their jobs.

The city is currently seeking applicants for the fire marshal position, with pay starting at $75,000 a year. In addition, it has not had a full-time economic development director since 2013. The city posted the job opening in April. A deputy finance director has also recently left her position, and another transferred to the police department, Dziekan said.

City Clerk Marc Garofalo, a Democrat who had a testy exchange with Dziekan during a Board of Aldermen & Alderwomen meeting in June, also said people arent eager to work at City Hall. Garofalo said there has been change in town among the administration since the beginning of the year.

The most succinct way to say it would be the tone of Mayor Dziekans administration has changed dramatically since Andrew Baklik left, Garofalo said.

Baklik, who had served as chief of staff since 2017, resigned in December 2021. He was replaced by Walt Mayhew, a former city treasurer and pastor with experience in the IT and teaching fields.

Mayhew said the claims city hall had a toxic work culture were not true.

Im not interested in commenting on negative stories that are a figment of someones imagination without any evidence or substantiation, Mayhew said.

Dziekan defended Mayhews performance, arguing that it was hard to find people since applicants have been requesting hybrid schedules as a result of the pandemic.

Other members of the Board of Aldermen & Alderwomen, unaffiliated member Rob Hyder and Republicans Gino DiGiovanni and Charles Sampson, did not respond to requests for comment.

Dziekan said he wants people to be happy at their jobs. The recent controversy with the finance director, he said, is settled and while he admitted there have been grievances here and there, he said the city had addressed them.

Dziekan also pointed out that Mayhew had helped craft the city budget while Herasimowicz had been on administrative leave earlier this year.

Walt is my chief of staff and he handles the city business, Dziekan said. Hes knowledgeable enough where he was able to help out in the finance department.

Dugatto said the struggle to hire new employees was straining the remaining city workers.

Kudos to the staff that do a wonderful job despite the pressures increasing by the day, Dugatto said.

And the city is working even harder than usual to fill vacancies, since a key position in the hiring process, human resources director, is also vacant and awaiting the Board of Aldermen and Alderwomens approval of a job description.

eddy.martinez@hearstmediact.com
WASHINGTON (AP)  The year was 2016, the presidential candidate under investigation was Hillary Clinton and the FBI director at the time, James Comey, laid out the factors the Justice Department weighs in deciding whether to charge someone with mishandling classified records.

Fast forward to 2022 and that tutorial proves instructive as another candidate from that election, Donald Trump, is entangled in an FBI probe related to sensitive government documents.

Whether an FBI search of Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence is a prelude to criminal charges is unknown. The action Monday nonetheless focuses attention on the thicket of statutes that govern the handling of government records, though the department's own history of prosecutorial discretion  some high-profile investigations have ended without charges or in misdemeanor plea deals  makes it hard to forecast with certainty what might happen this time.

These are statutes that have historically not been enforced to the fullest extent, said University of Texas law professor Stephen Vladeck.

Much remains uncertain about Monday's search, including precisely what documents the FBI was looking for  Trump says agents opened a safe  or why it acted when it did. But people familiar with the matter say it relates to an ongoing Justice Department investigation into the discovery of classified material in boxes of White House records the National Archives and Records Administration recovered from Mar-A-Lago earlier this year.

To obtain a search warrant, the Justice Department would have had to persuade a judge that probable cause existed that a crime was committed, though what statute officials think may have been violated is unclear.

Multiple federal laws require the safekeeping of government secrets. One potentially relevant statute makes it a crime to remove classified information and retain it an unauthorized location. Another makes it illegal to mishandle national defense information, including maps, photographs and documents, or transmit it to a person not authorized to receive it.

But if past is any precedent, the mere mishandling of classified information isn't always enough for a felony conviction  or any charges at all.

It often comes down to whether there are aggravating factors in these cases, said David Laufman, a Washington lawyer who as head of the Justice Departments counterintelligence and export control section oversaw the Hillary Clinton investigation.

Those include, he said, how much classified information was mishandled, the extent to which the person knew they were in possession of classified information and how sensitive the material was and whether its exposure placed at risk U.S. national security.

The FBI said as much in 2016 when it closed without recommending charges an investigation into whether Clinton mishandled classified information via a private email server she used as secretary of state. Comey said agents had determined that she had sent and received emails containing classified information but that there was no indication she had intended to break the law. He said no reasonable prosecutor would have brought such a case.

To prove his point, he said a review of past Justice Department cases established that each prosecution involved some combination of: an intentional mishandling of classified records; the vast exposure of materials in a way that suggested willful misconduct, disloyalty to the U.S. or obstruction of justice.

In another notable case, former CIA Director David Petraeus was permitted in 2015 to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge of the unauthorized removal and retention of classified information, avoiding prison as he admitted sharing notebooks containing government secrets with his biographer. That resolution came two years after an FBI search of his home and despite an acknowledgment by Petraeus that he knew the information he was sharing was classified.

It remains to be seen what arguments Trump might raise as the investigation progresses. His lengthy statement disclosing the search did not address the substance of the probe, complaining instead that the FBI's action was a weaponization of the Justice System and an attack by Radical Left Democrats."

Christina Bobb, a lawyer for Trump, said in an interview that aired on Real America's Voice on Tuesday that supporting documentation for the warrant remained sealed and that she had not seen it. But she said investigators said they were looking for classified information that they think should not have been removed from the White House, as well as presidential records.

She asserted that the president himself gets to decide what is a presidential record, and it is true that Trump could argue that as president until Jan. 20, 2021, he was the original classification authority and had declassified on his own the classified material recovered from Mar-a-Lago.

But, law professor Vladeck said, it would be a pretty stunning argument by Trump to claim as his defense that he had declassified all of our crown jewels and, by doing so, effectively admit that he was a "threat to our national security.

And, Laufman said, The fact that he has legal authority doesnt mean...that anything he might have chosen to take from the White House and squirrel away at Mar-a-Lago is declassified. The declassification process does not exist in Donald Trumps head. It's not self-executing.

It is also possible he might say he was unaware of the content of the boxes as they were being packed. His son Eric told Fox News that boxes were among items that got moved out of the White House during six hours on Inauguration Day. But even if that's the case, he would still have had a legal obligation once he learned of the presence of classified information to return it, Laufman said.

There are other statutes that could come into play that don't explicitly concern classified information. One particular law makes it a felony for someone in possession of government records to willfully mutilate, obliterate or destroy them. That law is punishable by up to three years in prison and says that anyone convicted of it is disqualified from holding future office, though the qualifications of who can run for president are established by the Constitution.

In any event, key unanswered questions remain, including whether the investigative focus is on the act of keeping all this material at Mar-a-Lago or on what the material actually is, Vladeck said.

Given that mystery, he said, We won't know for sure until we know for sure.

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Follow Eric Tucker at http://www.twitter.com/etuckerAP

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This story has been corrected to show that the Petraeus case was resolved two years after a search warrant was issued, not two months.
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  The Montana Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld a lower court ruling that temporarily blocks three abortion laws passed by the 2021 Legislature from taking effect while legal challenges play out.

The ruling prevents the state from enforcing laws that ban abortions beyond 20 weeks, eliminate tele-health services for medication abortions and mandate that an abortion provider offer patients the opportunity to listen to the fetal heart tone or view an ultrasound 24 hours before performing an abortion.

The case, filed by Planned Parenthood of Montana, now goes back to District Court in Yellowstone County for a full trial on the merits.

The Montana Supreme Court found that District Court Judge Michael Moses of Billings was right to rely on its 1999 Armstrong decision in granting the preliminary injunction. The Armstrong decision holds that laws interfering with bodily autonomy violate the state Constitutions right to individual privacy.

Moses granted the preliminary injunction in October 2021, finding that based on first impression the laws appeared to be unconstitutional.

The state, represented by Attorney General Austin Knudsen, appealed the injunction in January and also asked the Montana Supreme Court to overturn the Armstrong decision.

Justices said Montana's preliminary injunction standard prohibits courts from ruling on the underlying merits of the case, so it did not consider the request to overturn Armstrong.

The purpose of a preliminary injunction is to maintain the status quo pending trial, not to rule on the merits of the entire case, the ruling states.

The current standard for preliminary injunctions is so low that its not really a standard at all, said Emilee Cantrell, spokesperson for the Department of Justice. As a result, constitutional laws like these may be blocked for months  or even years  before courts ever decide cases on the merits.

Armstrong was wrong the day it was decided and its use in delaying these commonsense laws that protect the health and safety of Montana women makes that even more clear, Cantrell said in a statement.

The case had been fully briefed and submitted to the Montana Supreme Court on May 11. The U.S. Supreme court overturned Roe vs. Wade on June 24.

Soon after that, Attorney General Austin Knudsen and later Gov. Greg Gianforte asked the state Supreme Court to accept additional briefings in the request to overturn the Armstrong ruling.

The court recognizes the potential implications of the Dobbs decision and the desire to afford full opportunity to be heard. But, for reasons explained in the opinion  which was in its final stages of review when the governor filed his motion  the appeal of this preliminary injunction is not the time for those arguments to be made and considered, Justice Beth Baker wrote in the 5-0 ruling.
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NAIROBI, Kenya (AP)  Fewer Kenyans voted Tuesday in an unusual presidential election where a longtime opposition leader who is backed by the outgoing president faces the brash deputy president who styles himself as the outsider. Turnout was just 56% an hour before polls closed as some voters cited little hope of real change.

The election was considered close but calm. East Africas economic hub could see a presidential runoff for the first time. Economic issues such as widespread corruption could be of greater importance than the ethnic tensions that have marked past votes with sometimes deadly results.

Kenya is a standout with its relatively democratic system in a region where some leaders are notorious for clinging to power for decades. Its stability is crucial for foreign investors, the most humble of street vendors and troubled neighbors like Ethiopia and Somalia.

The top candidates are Raila Odinga, a democracy campaigner who has vied for the presidency for a quarter-century, and 55-year-old Deputy President William Ruto, who has stressed his journey from a humble childhood to appeal to struggling Kenyans long accustomed to political dynasties.

In moments like this is when the mighty and the powerful come to the realization that it is the simple and the ordinary that eventually make the choice, Ruto told journalists. I look forward to our victorious day. He urged Kenyans to be peaceful and respect others' choices.

I have confidence that the people of Kenya are going to speak loudly in favor of democratic change, Odinga told journalists. A cheering crowd jogged alongside his convoy as he arrived to vote in Nairobi.

To win outright, a candidate needs more than half of all votes and at least 25% of the votes in more than half of Kenyas 47 counties. No outright winner means a runoff election within 30 days. Attention turned Tuesday night to classrooms and other vote-counting locations across the country as paper ballots were inspected one by one.

Results must be announced within a week, but impatience is expected if they dont come before this weekend. What we want to try to avoid is a long period of anxiety, of suspense, said Bruce Golding, who leads the Commonwealth election observer group.

Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, the son of Kenyas first president, cut across the usual ethnic lines and angered Ruto by backing longtime rival Odinga after their bitter 2017 election contest. But both Odinga and Ruto have chosen running mates from the countrys largest ethnic group, the Kikuyu.

The 77-year-old Odinga made history by choosing running mate Martha Karua, a former justice minister and the first woman to be a leading contender for the deputy presidency. She has inspired many women in a country where female candidates commonly face harassment.

Rising food and fuel prices, debt at 67% of GDP, youth unemployment at 40% and corruption put economic issues at the center of an election in which unregulated campaign spending highlighted the countrys inequality. But personalities still matter.

We need mature people to lead, not someone who abuses people. Someone who respects elders, said 55-year-old teacher Rosemary Mulima, who arrived at a polling station on Nairobi's outskirts to find about 500 people in line before dawn. She had very high hopes for Odinga on his fifth try,

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission estimated that final turnout would be above 60%, far lower than the 80% in the 2017 election. That would make it Kenya's lowest turnout in 15 or even 20 years. The electoral commission signed up less than half of the new voters it had hoped for, just 2.5 million.

More than 6.5 million people had voted by midday, or about 30% of the 22 million registered.

The problems from (the previous election), the economy, the day-to-day life, are still here, said 38-year-old shopkeeper Adrian Kibera. We don't have good choices, he said, calling Odinga too old and Ruto too inexperienced.

Difficulties were reported at times with the electronic voting system, and presidential candidate George Wajackoyah told journalists that some voting kits in his stronghold werent working. Though polling in low single figures, Wajackoyah and his pledges to legalize marijuana prompted questions over whether he could draw enough votes to force a runoff.

The electoral commission said about 200 voting kits had failed out of more than 46,000, calling it not widespread" and normal for technology to break down at times.

Kenyans hope for a peaceful vote. Elections can be exceptionally troubled, as in 2007 when the country exploded after Odinga claimed the vote had been stolen from him and more than 1,000 people were killed. Ruto was indicted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity for his role in the violence, but his case was terminated amid allegations of witness tampering.

In 2017, the high court overturned the election results, a first in Africa, after Odinga challenged them over irregularities. He boycotted the new vote and proclaimed himself the peoples president, bringing allegations of treason. A public handshake between him and Kenyatta calmed the crisis.

This is likely Odingas last try. Ruto and Odinga have said they will accept the official results  if the vote is free and fair. It is every Kenyan's hope," the president told journalists.
WFO EL PASO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, August 9, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in El Paso has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

South central Dona Ana County in south central New Mexico...

Northwestern El Paso County in western Texas...

* Until 515 PM MDT.

* At 438 PM MDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near West El Paso,

moving west at 10 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage

to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...

West El Paso, Santa Teresa, Sunland Park, Canutillo, La Union,

Vinton and Union Pacific Intermodal Terminal.

This includes Interstate 10 in Texas between mile markers 4 and 12.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
Back in the 1980s, Margaret Thatcher changed Britains economic landscape as she privatised swathes of business and public services.

Her vision was simple: freed from state control, utilities would be able to devote themselves to investing in the future  and serve the public better.

By the time Mrs T left office in 1990, more than 40 formerly state-owned UK businesses  employing some 600,000 people  had been sold to the highest bidders, with the total share of employees working in nationalised industries plunging from 9 per cent to just 2 per cent.

At first, standards improved dramatically under British Airways, British Telecom, British Steel and British Gas  to name just four of the companies swept up in the Thatcherite revolution.

But now the reputation of our privatised public services is at its lowest ebb since the Iron Lady came to power  and using and paying for them often feels like a rip-off.

The reputation of our privatised public services is at its lowest ebb since the Iron Lady came to power  and using and paying for them often feels like a rip-off.

Failed

According to the Met Office, England has just experienced the driest July since 1935, while East Anglia and south-east and southern England all suffered the most parched July since records began in 1836.

Some 3.5 million people are now subject to hosepipe bans, with millions more expected to join them soon.

Of course, the water firms  privatised by Thatcher in 1989  are not responsible for the weather.

But they do have a responsibility to make reasonable preparations to deal with droughts  which, as climate-change doom-mongers never tire of telling us, are predicted to occur more frequently in years to come.

And in this, they have manifestly failed.

Instead, they have paid their bosses gargantuan salaries, and their foreign owners enormous dividends, while failing to invest in the infrastructure necessary to deal with a thirsty and growing population.

Last year, the chief executive of Thames Water, Sarah Bentley, was given a performance-related bonus of nearly 500,000  almost double her previous years payout and on top of her 750,000 salary.

This is despite the fact it has emerged that a 250 million water plant built to protect Londoners against droughts had been turned off by her outfit.

The water companies have also failed to invest in a much-needed distribution network or grid, which could move water from the wetter North to the parched South.

In a stark symbol of this intractable problem, it has been 31 years since a major water-supply reservoir opened in Britain: the last was Carsington Water in Derbyshire.

This is despite the fact that our population has soared from less than 58 million to more than 67 million in that time.

Also the water companies fault is a shocking history of failing to deal with leaks.

Three billion litres of water are lost every day in Britain thanks to leaky pipes  when the UK uses 14 billion litres daily.

This is not just wasteful: in many cases, the leaks pollute our rivers and coasts.

Three billion litres of water are lost every day in Britain thanks to leaky pipes  when the UK uses 14 billion litres daily.

Thames Water, along with five of the other biggest water companies (Anglian, Northumbrian, Southern, Yorkshire and Wessex), is now foreign-owned.

Indeed, it has been passed among overseas owners like an antique jug at a flea market, with little discernible improvement in service for its 15 million customers.

Since Thatchers pioneering privatisations, money-hungry predators hailing from faraway lands, including the Middle East, Singapore and Australia, have descended like locusts on Britains free and open market economy.

They have run these essential companies largely as financial assets instead of letting them serve their clear public purpose.

Thames Waters earlier German owner, power giant RWE, fled the UK in the 2000s, following the Daily Mails damaging expose of the pampered lifestyle of its bosses.

The firm was sold to the vampire kangaroo Macquarie, an Australian outfit known for its ruthlessness.

Then it was subsequently resold to the Ontario Municipal Retirement Fund, Abu Dhabi Infinity Investments and various other foreign entities.

In the meantime, customers bills have climbed and the company has been fined almost 7 million for various misdemeanours since 2021 alone. Many would call the situation a disgrace.

But water is only one stark example of privatised utility companies letting down their customers.

As Britains energy bills surge, ministers are starting to worry about older and vulnerable people freezing to death in their homes this winter, and of widespread power cuts as firms have to pause production.

Our airports, meanwhile, are a disaster zone, riddled with cancellations, terrible service and lost bags.

A large slice of Heathrow, you may remember, is controlled by Spanish construction firm Ferrovial.

Weak

Millions of rail passengers are being held to ransom by militant trades unions, who are more concerned with a class war and their efforts to fell a Tory government than with the true interests of their members and the wellbeing of the passengers and taxpayers who subsidise the railways.

In all these cases, year after year, owners pledges of huge new investment to improve performance and resilience have never been properly fulfilled.

Weak regulation has also played a part in creating this mess. The water regulator Ofwat has done nothing to stem the great cash merry-go-around in that sector.

And in energy, the efforts by regulator Ofgem to create a more competitive marketplace have collapsed in recent months as wholesale energy prices have surged.

Some 30 out of the 60 or so new players who had entered the British market recently have now been driven out, with the Government having to pick up most of the bills.

This has left much of the market at the mercy of big overseas power companies such as Electricite de France (EDF), which supplies 5 million customers in the UK. And since President Macron has seized ownership of EDF back from the publicly quoted markets, much of the UKs electricity will ultimately be controlled from Paris.

Given the strains in Franco-British relations  ranging from immigration to border controls  that is not a comforting thought.

Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak (pictured), need to seek a new settlement with the utility companies and lead the country away from the rickety standards and a sub-par performance

Meltdown

Belatedly, British Gass UK-listed owner Centrica has woken up to this problem and agreed to invest up to 2 billion in renovating Britains gas storage capacity at Rough in the North Sea, in an effort to improve the UKs resilience as soon as this winter.

But its too little, too late.

The meltdown in public services is an indictment not of privatisation per se, but of the way in which successive governments have betrayed Thatchers vision.

Whats needed now is better and tougher regulation and a proper focus on investment.

Our next Prime Minister, be it Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak, needs to seek a new settlement with the utility companies and lead the country away from the rickety standards and sub-par performance that this chronic lack of investment has engendered.

If they fail to do so, the danger is that Labour seizes the agenda, demanding a socialist return to full public ownership, which would see the state-run utilities having to compete for our money with the NHS and social care, education, defence and all the rest.

Thats a tussle that water, energy and transport would struggle to win. Thus we would witness the final undoing of the great Thatcherite legacy  and Britain would truly go back to the 1970s.
What if we lived in a world where artists were treated like politicians, and politicians were treated like artists?

ANDREW NEIL: So, David Hockney. You have recently painted pictures of fields and trees in the summer. All very nice. But let me put this to you. Many of our viewers must be asking themselves: surely a man of his age and experience has something better to do with his time?

DAVID HOCKNEY: Well, Andrew

ANDREW NEIL: OK, let me put it a different way. Are you really trying to tell me that they havent been painted by countless other artists before you, and, some might say, with greater expertise?

DAVID HOCKNEY: All Im trying to do, Andrew, is

ANDREW NEIL: Yes, what exactly is it that you are trying to do?

DAVID HOCKNEY: I

What if we lived in a world where artists were treated like politicians, and politicians were treated like artists? (Pictured: British painter David Hockney at the Orangerie museum in Paris in October last year)

ANDREW NEIL: Its a question that needs answering. And Ill tell you why. Many of our viewers will be saying to themselves, Its all very well going out and painting all those fields and trees in the sunshine or whatever. Fair enough.

But why should innocent walkers and ramblers let Mr Hockney clog up our countrys footpaths with his easels and his canvases and his paints and so forth? Why shouldnt we be allowed to ramble in peace? What do you say to that, Mr Hockney?

DAVID HOCKNEY: I try not to get in anyones way, Andrew, and I

ANDREW NEIL: If that is the case, you have a very peculiar way of going about it. Only last week, there was a report of a rambler saying  and I quote  I was going for a pleasant walk when I came across David Hockney and his easel blocking my way. It came as quite a surprise.

So let me ask you this. Is it part of your overall plan, Mr Hockney, to deliver unpleasant surprises to total strangers?

DAVID HOCKNEY: Well, I

ANDREW NEIL: Yes or no, Mr Hockney? Yes or no?

DAVID HOCKNEY: To be honest, I dont really understand what youre

ANDREW NEIL: Yes or no?

DAVID HOCKNEY: Im not sure I

ANDREW NEIL: Yes or no , Mr Hockney?

DAVID HOCKNEY: I cant really say. I mean

ANDREW NEIL: OK. So youre not prepared to give a straight answer to a straight question. That is your choice. Lets move on to your earlier work.

In the 1970s, you painted pictures of young men in swimming pools in notably well-heeled areas of California.

DAVID HOCKNEY: Yes.

ANDREW NEIL: Yet that was at a time when ordinary hard-working men and women back in your home town of Bradford were struggling on low incomes and harsh working conditions. True or false, Mr Hockney?

DAVID HOCKNEY: Well, yes, I suppose thats true to a certain ext

ANDREW NEIL: But that didnt give you pause for thought, did it, Mr Hockney? And at no point did you ever offer them an apology.

DAVID HOCKNEY: No, but

ANDREW NEIL: Ah! So you admit that no apology was ever forthcoming and that as you were sunning yourself doing your fancy daubing in the pampered pool-side environs of affluent California, hundreds if not thousands of men and women were leading very different lives, bowed down by poverty, wondering just where their next meals were coming from. Not a very pretty picture, is it, Mr Hockney?

DAVID HOCKNEY: I

ANDREW NEIL: Lets turn to your use of colour. Bright reds and yellows and blues and greens. Some would say over-bright, even garish. Isnt it time you toned it all down, Mr Hockney?

DAVID HOCKNEY: I like to celebrate the colours in nature, to try to capture

ANDREW NEIL: Now youre talking about capture. Thats an odd word for a self-proclaimed artist to employ, is it not, Mr Hockney. The language of terrorism. The language of kidnap and murder.

Such language will bring grief to many. Do you now regret your use of that particular word  capture Mr Hockney?

DAVID HOCKNEY: What I meant was

ANDREW NEIL: Im not interested in what you meant, Mr Hockney. I am interested in what you actually said. Thats all for this week. Join me next week when I cross-question Dame Judi Dench about why, despite all widespread calls for her resignation, she refuses to make way for a younger woman.

To be continued
Advertisement

This is the dress that perfectly sums up our gender fluid, anything goes summer of 2022.

A dress chosen by a queen - and a transvestite comedian - which costs just 32.99. A hot frock that's been spotted at baby showers, office parties, race meetings, discos and in every chic European resort over the last few weeks.

This summer's super-frock is pink, printed, and incredibly skimpy - with a comfy elastic waist, it's designed to accommodate an impressive variety of body shapes and genders.

Hoorah for high street fashion brand Zara - beloved by working women, aristos (the Duchess of Cambridge for starters) and cross-dressing comics off on holiday. Once again Zara has come up with a fashion bullseye, a dress which is so hot nobody seems to mind if everyone else has chosen exactly the same style as you.

Last Sunday, the frock made an appearance in Majorca, worn by a leading member of European aristocracy.

Queen Letizia of Spain (no less) wore the saucy pink number to a street market in Palma, accompanied by her mother-in-law and her teenage daughters 16-year-old Princess Leonor and 15-year-old Princess Sofia.

Mum's holiday dress was exactly the same length as theirs, which seemed to enrage some Royalists - one commenting on social media 'far too short for a queen'.

Last Sunday, the frock made an appearance in Majorca, worn by a leading member of European aristocracy. Queen Letizia of Spain (no less) wore the saucy pink number to a street market in Palma, accompanied by her mother-in-law and her teenage daughters 16-year-old Princess Leonor and 15-year-old Princess Sofia

This dress is super-versatile - a few days earlier, comedian, activist and ground -breaking transvestite Eddie Izzard was spotted at Malaga airport wearing the saucy frock teamed with Nike trainers

Remind me - what is the correct skirt length for a member of royalty?

This summer's super-frock is pink, printed, and incredibly skimpy - with a comfy elastic waist, it's designed to accommodate an impressive variety of body shapes and genders

This dress is super-versatile - a few days earlier, comedian, activist and ground -breaking transvestite Eddie Izzard was spotted at Malaga airport wearing the saucy frock teamed with Nike trainers.

The style also comes in green. Fashionista Sarah Gledhill has posted a hilarious video on TikTok charting dozens of people she encountered wearing both versions at York Races last month - which has now been liked 48,000 times.

Comments posted in response are hilarious, ranging from 'I have it in pink and green' to 'I see it every day as I work in a restaurant' and 'they were everywhere in Croatia'.

Only one misery complained 'I'm chucking it now'.

Once, wearing the same dress was a social disaster, now it's a club most are thrilled to join.

Zara's black and white spotted midi dress turned out to be the frock of summer 2021 - I'm still clinging to the matching skirt, even though it has a sad hole in the side where I jammed it into my carry-on bag en route to Spain.

That black and white dress was prim and a bit too tasteful for me, but this year's pink mini is rocking and ready to party.

Isn't it a cause for celebration that fashion can unite so many people and nobody minds if you run into someone wearing your frock? And if that person is a bloke or trans, so what?

A Zara shop assistant says she has sold three of the dresses to men in a single day.

We've come a long way since Harry Styles popped on a twinset and pearls to promote gender fluidity (and his latest album). Now, even Brad Pitt is wearing a skirt in an effort to publicise a film that's had appalling reviews - but am I being cynical about his late conversion to the cause?

As for Queen Letizia, the real reason she has attracted nasty criticism is because - at 49- she's had the temerity to wear a really short skirt and look absolutely fantastic

Isn't it a cause for celebration that fashion can unite so many people and nobody minds if you run into someone wearing your frock? And if that person is a bloke or trans, so what?

A Zara shop assistant says she has sold three of the dresses to men in a single day

Left: an influencer shows off the dress in pink at home. Right: a model dons the dress for Zara's website

Eddie Izzard has never been afraid to rock a pink look - usually his trusty beret or a fluffy coat. In a recent interview she said she was 'elastic' about gender pronouns, depending on what she was doing. Izzard is still playing male roles in TV and movie dramas - 'in boring mode' as he put it - but, when doing stand-up, campaigning for a cause she believes in, or doing endurance running, Izzard says she's in 'feminine mode'.

As for Queen Letizia, the real reason she has attracted nasty criticism is because - at 49- she's had the temerity to wear a really short skirt and look absolutely fantastic.

I've got a news flash for the fashion police.

There is no 'royal' way to dress in 2022.

No gender-appropriate way either.

The Duchess of Cambridge has worn short shorts for sailing and sporting events, and although she's also a fan of Zara, she's more likely to choose a tailored blazer or midi dress - largely because our Royal dress codes seems to be even more stuffy those of our Catholic neighbours like Spain.

I salute Queen Letizia because age (not sex) is the biggest barrier to wearing this summer's super-dress and she looks brilliant.

Interestingly, the Spanish government have been running a ground-breaking advertisement designed to encourage women of all shapes and sizes to go to the beach. Produced by the Equality Ministry, it features a woman with a mastectomy scar, as well as different age groups and ethnicities all enjoying a day at the seaside.

The pink number, which also comes in blue, left, and green, has been spotted numerous times at the York Races and music festivals throughout the summer

A TikTok user compiled a video showing how many women donned the dress in its different colours at York's Races in July

The ad has been well received - nevertheless, all it takes is a very short skirt on a woman approaching 50 to bring out the haters and the doubters with snotty remarks like -

'Perfect for her daughters'

'Trying way too hard'

'Too old for this length'

Can these sad sods stop being so judgmental? As one lone voice of reason commented - 'she wasn't visiting a hospice or opening a museum' - as if both of these tasks required mid-calf length skirts. Grow up!

As for Eddie Izzard, she's never cared what we think, and I very much doubt she's bothered now.

And the dress is still available, in small, medium and large - if you want to join the (very large) crowd.
The speed and scale of the rise in the energy price cap  the default tariff for many  is truly shocking.

Not only has the forecast price for January surged by over 650 per household, bringing annual bills up to 4,266 a year in the three months to March 2023, but the October 2022 cap is likely to be 200 higher than expected, according to forecaster Cornwall Insight.

Little wonder then that energy prices have moved to the top of the political agenda for Tory leadership aspirants Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak.

Consumers are left wondering just how high can prices go? Well, I believe there are reasons for a sliver of optimism.

The speed and scale of the rise in the energy price cap  the default tariff for many  is truly shocking

As worrying as the latest estimates are, analysts believe that, barring an exceptionally cold winter, spiralling prices could peak in March 2023 when the next price cap is calculated by the regulator Ofgem. There are no formal forecasts as yet, but the big domestic energy suppliers are working on the basis that the March increase will be a few hundred pounds at worst.

That is, of course, scant comfort for people living in fuel poverty  defined as when 10 per cent of income is gobbled up by energy bills  but there is at least a light at the end of the tunnel, with the peak just seven months away.

The message from wholesale markets is also more encouraging. Traders have sold more than one million barrels of European oil in the futures market, bringing the average price down from $102-abarrel in mid-June to $86-a-barrel in 2023 as prospects for the global economy have deteriorated and demand is expected to fall. Natural gas prices tend to follow oil prices.

A milder winter than expected with thermostats turned down should see sufficient gas storage facilities on the Continent to avoid another spike in wholesale prices.

Looking ahead, British Gas owner Centrica has just signed a deal to buy one million tons of liquefied natural gas a year for 15 years from the Delfin Deepwater Port off the coast of Louisiana. The 7billion agreement would start in 2026. Such a deal is no help to UK consumers in the short term but it demonstrates there is no fundamental shortage of fossil fuels. The current kinks in supplies, caused by the post-Covid recovery, Russias war on Ukraine and climate change activism, are not long term.

The disruption to free markets should eventually normalise and petrol and fuel prices come down. It will then be up to the regulators to make sure falling prices are shared with households as speedily as when they are climbing
Is it possible to think yourself out of pain? That's what one doctor with more than 20 years' experience believes.

Dr Deepak Ravindran, clinical lead for pain medicine at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, in Reading, has spent more than two decades specialising in acute and chronic pain management.

He has found what he believes is a compelling link between an individual's mental state and the severity of pain experienced.

Dr Deepak Ravindran, clinical lead for pain medicine at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, believes you can use simple mental techniques to relieve yourself of pain (stock image)

'In the last 15 to 20 years that has been emerging understanding about the neuroscience and the study of the brain and the spinal cord using advanced MRI techniques that actually give scientific proof that the mind and body are one,' he explained to FEMAIL.

'In certain conditions like chronic pain, the research actually proves mind body techniques can be as effective as compared to traditional techniques like medications and surgery.'

These mental practices might not entirely cure an individual of pain but they can certainly help. In some instances more effectively than traditional medical interventions.

He continued: 'We now understand the phenomenon of neuroplasticity which is the ability of the brain and the nerves to be plastic and rewire itself in a way that it can overcome the pain.

'Alongside this we realise the role and contribution of lifestyle and personality driven by genes, and indeed they might combine with environmental factors that can trigger a particular gene in unwanted ways.'

Dr Ravindran outlines his method in his book, The Pain-Free Mindset. Here, he shares five practical tips on how you can begin to take control of your pain with FEMAIL...

Activate your 'internal safety system' with '3-4-5 breathing'

A simple way to incorporate a breathing technique is a 3-4-5 approach where you would breathe in for three seconds, hold your breath for four seconds, and then breathe out for five seconds, explains Dr Ravindran (stock image)

One of the most reliable and easily controllable ways of activating the safety system (the parasympathetic system) is breathing.

When we can breathe out longer than we breathe in, it can activate the safety system much more predictably and provide the brain reassurance that all is safe.

A simple way to incorporate a breathing technique is a 3-4-5 approach where you would breathe in for three seconds, hold your breath for four seconds, and then breathe out for five seconds.

Even practising this for two to five minutes will help you take between 10 to 20 breaths which can often help in calming the nervous system down significantly.

Another technique which can be easy to start with is the 5-5-5 technique which would involve 5 seconds of breathing in, five seconds to hold, and then five seconds of breathing out.

Focus on a word, phrase or object

One technique to try to relax is to focus on a word, phase or object - a response written about by Howard cardiologist and mind body professor Herbert Benson.

This aims to achieve a state of flow or focused awareness of ourselves by using a repeated word, phrase or an action.

The use of Christian rosaries or the Hindu 'jap mala' are examples of object focus.

This allows the nerves of our brain to move from what is called a default network to a different set of nerve circuits called the flow circuits.

This can then help in relaxing the nervous system and hence reduce physical pain.

Try yoga or Tai Chi

There are also now studies indicating that yoga and Tai Chi can benefit and cause pain relief. Stock image

Both yoga and Tai Chi, also known as mind-body techniques, are now increasingly popular.

The exercises are already in the mainstream with GPs and hospital doctors recommending the tasks for different conditions and different age groups.

There are also now studies indicating that yoga and Tai Chi can benefit and cause pain relief.

Both exercises embrace the concept that pain can be present both in the mind and body and relieved by rhythmic slow movements.

Yoga and Tai Chi can help in controlling breath as well as stretching deconditioned muscles and improving them.

There are many videos and apps that can help you get started, while local gyms and healthcare centres may also have classes available. These can be of big benefit.

Practise mindfulness

Dr Ravindran outlines his method in his book, The Pain-Free Mindset

Try to adopt a passive non-judgmental compassionate attitude to your thoughts because this is core to the concept of mindfulness based stress reduction.

This technique has got a very good evidence base for management of chronic pain using mind/body approaches.

There is now good scientific proof to suggest that when people are good mindful meditators, then there are positive changes in their nerves.

A mindfulness based practise does not have to be only about meditation.

It can be any physical activity that patients feel safe and like to do  whether that is eating, running, jogging or going to gym.

Be selective in the language you use... even when thinking

Evidence has shown that the kind of language we use can be very powerful in shaping our thoughts, and therefore our behaviours and actions.

This is important because the language we use and stories we say can cause unsafe thoughts and actions, which can result in activating our immune system.

This activation of the immune system can release chemicals that can cause a flare up of chronic pain circuits in many different parts of the brain.

Journaling your positive thoughts the beginning of the day and also noting down a few points that you are thankful for are also examples of positive thinking that can change your mindset and reduce pain.dr

Ultimately many mind body techniques are being used to relieve pain and they all now take advantage of the principle of neuroplasticity.

The increasing success of these techniques show that this can be safe and sustainable long term strategies to overcome pain and in some cases become pain free

The Pain-Free Mindset: 7 Steps to Taking Control and Overcoming Chronic Pain by k by Dr Deepak Ravindran, 14.99, Vermilion
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This year's influx of new college freshmen are kicking off the school year with a real bang by transforming their dreary and drab dorm rooms into luxurious residences that have left social media users in awe.

As the new academic year begins, so too has the latest round of astonishing dorm room transformations - something that has become a rite of passage for many students, who relish in flaunting their renovation skills on social media, where they proudly post before and after shots of their impressive bedroom upgrades.

From custom neon signs to lavish furniture, this year's group of dorm room DIYers are proving that there is no upgrade too big - or too expensive - for them, with several even going as far as to hire an interior designer to deck out their rooms in ultimate luxury.

Although she didn't reveal the name of her client, interior designer known as essentialswithEden on TikTok was hired to transform a dorm room (pictured left before); the once tiny dark room was transformed into a stylish space (shown right after)

The dorm room was complete with massive headboards and elegant furniture making it the perfect space for the new college student and the most sought after place for the average joe

The next college student who showed off her dramatic transformation was University of Florida student, who goes by Amandaeliza on TikTok, and began by showing users her dull room (pictured before transformation)

She then showed the HGTV-level transformation, which was complete with bright paintings that filled the walls, pink and yellow decor and an elegant white bed skirt to cover up the boring wooden furniture

One college student who showed off her dramatic transformation was University of Florida student, who goes by Amandaeliza on TikTok and who added many different shades of pink to make her room warm and welcoming and take away from the once drab interior.

The University of Florida student shared a before shot of the room with dull carpet flooring and bare walls.

She then showed the HGTV-level transformation, which was complete with bright paintings that filled the walls, pink and yellow decor and an elegant white bed skirt to cover up the boring wooden furniture.

And if users thought the University of Florida student was over the top, they were utterly shocked when they heard one college student even went as far as hiring a professional.

Although she didn't reveal the name of her client, interior designer known as essentialswithEden on TikTok revealed one college student at the University of Mississippi hired her to transform a dorm room.

The once tiny dark room was transformed into a stylish space complete with massive headboards and elegant furniture making it the perfect space for the new college student and the most sought after place for the average joe.

Mississippi State University students Maggie Claire and Anne Journey also hired an interior designer to take their room to the next level.

After Five Designs, an interior design company based in Mississippi, specializes in transforming dorm rooms and they sure didn't disappoint when it came time to decorate the incoming freshman's rooms.

The dorm room featured matching white and pink bedding, two gold tables, a couch, pink velvet ottomans and matching gold lamps.

Maggie and Claire were ready to take on the school year with their newly transformed dorm room, complete with elegant furniture and decor.

Mississippi State University students Maggie Claire and Anne Journey also hired an interior designer to take their room to the next level, complete with matching bedding and customized neon signs with their names

And the interior design company didn't stop there, they also decorated Mississippi State University students room's Maddie Mabry and Annaleigh Penter

For this stunning space, After Five Designs kept the theme of matching decor and bedding on either sides of the room, this time adding silver metallic blankets, pillows and wall art to the once plain room

Mary Rae and Laura Lane were the next Mississippi State student's to receive a room makeover; their elegant rooms rooms came complete with pink metallic blankets, pillows, wall art and matching lamps

Abigail and Grace, University of Alabama students, had their room transformed by the interior design company with matching white bedding, red pillows, a red carpet, luxurious drapes and of course, their names in neon lights

And the interior design company didn't stop there, they also decorated Mississippi State University students room's Maddie Mabry and Annaleigh Penter.

For this stunning space, After Five Designs kept the theme of matching decor and bedding on either sides of the room, adding silver metallic blankets, pillows and wall art to the once plain room.

The girl's matching beds come complete with massive headboards and identical white comforters.

They even have their very own couch and gold accent table to give them a taste of luxury while in the school-issued room.

Atop their beds, they even have their very own customized neon lights with their names, which seems to be a specialty for the dorm room designers.

Mary Rae and Laura Lane were the next Mississippi State student's to receive a room makeover.

Their elegant rooms rooms came complete with pink metallic blankets, pillows, wall art and matching lamps.

They too had their very onw couch in the dorm room which was filled with pink pillows and of course, atop their beds they had their names in neon lights.

After Five Designs then went to University of Alabama to decorate their dorm rooms.

Abigail and Grace, University of Alabama students, had their room transformed by the interior design company.

The newly transformed room was complete with matching white bedding, red pillows, a red carpet, luxurious drapes and of course, their names in neon lights.

Next up were University of Alabama students Olivia and Ellie who hired the dorm designing company to transform their room with matching blue metallic bedding, white ottomans, gold lamps and their names in faded blue neon lights

And it didn't seem like the college students were too worried about homework as they turned their desk to makeup vanities complete with massive mirrors surrounded in lights

Similarly to other University of Alabama students, Sheridan and Reagan opted for matching silver metallic bedding and elegant white furniture pieces, including two white ottomans and a white nightstand in the middle of the beds

Gracie Branham, an Auburn University student, took to TikTok to share her dorm room transformation and began by showing her dorm room prior to decorating which featured a plain bed; Gracie then showed her pile of decorations she brought

Next up were University of Alabama students Olivia and Ellie who hired the dorm designing company to transform their room.

The new and improved room came complete with matching blue metallic bedding, white ottomans, gold lamps and their names in faded blue neon lights.

And it didn't seem like the college students were too worried about homework as they turned their desk to makeup vanities complete with massive mirrors surrounded in lights.

Similarly to other University of Alabama students, Sheridan and Reagan opted for matching silver metallic bedding and elegant white furniture pieces, including two white ottomans and a white nightstand in the middle of the beds.

Gracie Branham, an Auburn University student, took to TikTok to share her dorm room transformation.

In the beginning of her 'move in vlog,' Gracie showed a before shot of her dorm room, which featured a plain twin bed and are white walls.

Gracie then showed the room filled with her decorations, bedding and more before revealing the luxury transformation.

The Auburn University student covered her room in neon pink lights and her once plain wooden floors in a massive pink rug and covered her bed in a white comforter, complete with various throw pills and a massive pink velvet headboard

Gracie made sure to add an elegant white nightstand with gold finishes and vibrant wall art to complete her transformation; she even added her very own gold clothing rack inside her room to fit even more clothes

Gracyn Edmondson, a University of Alabama student, also took to TikTok to reveal her impressive transformation; in the before shot, Gracyn showed the drab dorm room filled with her suitcases, which she was more than ready to unpack

In the after shot, the University of Alabama student documented how she took her room from drab to fab white and pink bedding complete with giant headboards and plenty of throw pillows and white curtains

Gracyn even added purple neon lights to her bathroom to add a vibrant touch to her school-issued walls; she then kept her walls more simple, showing off her school spirit with plenty of 'Roll Tide' signs

The Auburn University student covered her once plain wooden floors in a massive pink rug and covered her bed in a white comforter, complete with various throw pills and a massive pink velvet headboard.

She made sure to cover the once plain walls with vibrant wall art, added a gold clothing rack in her room to fit even more clothes in her room and even swapped out the school provided desk chair for her very own hot pink chair.

Gracyn Edmondson, a University of Alabama student, also took to TikTok to reveal her impressive transformation.

In the before shot, Gracyn showed the drab dorm room filled with her suitcases, which she was more than ready to unpack.

In the after shot, the University of Alabama student documented how she took her room from drab to fab with purple neon lights atop her bathroom sink, white and pink bedding complete with giant headboards and plenty of throw pillows and white curtains.

She even added an elegant white nightstand in between the beds and a white rug to cover the plain wooden floors.

She kept her wall art simple, showing off her school spirit with various 'Roll Tide' signs.

Mackenzie Sanschagrin, a freshman at the University of Alabama, documented her dorm room transformation (pictured left before) in a video and showed how she turned a dull room into a pink-filled swanky bedroom (shown right after)

The University of Alabama student filled the room with rose-colored curtains, blankets and pillows, while adding white furniture pieces in the previously dark room

Mackenzie even transformed her plain bathroom into a Pinterest-level space (pictured left before transformation), complete with a pink shower curtain, matching towels, a pink bath mat and white furniture for added storage space (shown right after)

Mackenzie Sanschagrin, a freshman at the University of Alabama, documented her dorm room transformation to her followers in a video, which racked over 14,000 views, and showed how she turned a dull room into a pink-filled swanky bedroom.

The college student transformed everything from the floor - now taken over by a large pink carpet, to the previously plain walls, which she gave a touch of color with various pink framed decorations.

She filled the room with rose-colored curtains, blankets and pillows, while adding white furniture pieces in the previously dark room.

The college student left users in shock as she showed her bedroom complete with neon lights on her walls, white and gold furniture and previously lifeless walls filled with bright picture frames.

Mackenzie even transformed her plain bathroom into a Pinterest-level space, complete with a pink shower curtain, matching towels, a pink bath mat that reads 'sweet cheeks,' and white furniture for added storage space.

Jess Kowa, University of Alabama student, shared a video, which racked up nearly 2,000 views, and showed how she leveled-up her space.

Jess documented her amazing transformation showing how big of an impact neon lights and the right bedding can make.

She showed her new and improved room now filled with hot pink lights, a large TV, white and pink bedding and an accent wall covered in artificial vines and fairy lights.

Sam Carlson, Charleston Southern University student, showed how tricky transforming stark white walls and plain wood flooring could be with her transformation that took her 24 hours.

Her after shot showed how she turned a school-issued dorm room into a charming space, proving home is where the decorations are.

Sam's room had a common theme of plants and she filled both her walls, desk and other storage areas with artificial plants.

Sam turned her boring space into a picture-perfect room, complete with polaroid photos, artificial vines and plants and touches of gray and pink to make the room extra homey.

Jess Kowa, University of Alabama student, shared a video, which racked up nearly 2,000 views, and showed how she leveled-up her space with neon lights, polaroid pictures and artificial vines, showing how big of an impact decorations can make

Sam Carlson, Charleston Southern University student, showed how tricky transforming stark white walls and plain wood flooring could be (pictured left before); she added touches of pink to her room to make it extra homey (shown right after)

Grace Karner, another student at the University of Alabama, shared her bedroom transformation (pictured left before) and revealed her new homey space, which was filled with white and blue furniture, decorations and bedding (shown right after)

Grace Karner, another student at the University of Alabama, shared her stunning bedroom transformation.

In the video, which racked up over 16,000 views, Grace showed off her now cozy room.

Grace went for a more relaxed transformation, showing her followers how she balled on a budget.

The University of Alabama student revealed her new homey space, which was now filled with white and blue furniture, decorations and bedding.

Grace even put drawers under her bed to give it some extra height and went for minimalist wall decor, making it the perfect place to relax after a long day of class.

Hidy Kirkpatrick, a University of Alabama student showed off her vibrant dorm room in a 'highly requested dorm tour' video, which racked up over 170,000 views.

She showed off her colorful room filled with pink themed wall decor, a neon pink light that reads 'hello gorgeous' and her white bed that was covered in various pink pillows.

She even covered the once bland flooring in a pink multi-colored carpet and added touches of gold decorations to make her school-issued room feel luxurious.

The average college student no longer focuses on the basics of back to school shopping, instead they focus on competing with other students as to who can to turn their dorm room into the most luxurious suite.

Students are spending an average of $969.88 on furnishing their dorms, according to a report by the National Retail Federation.

Extreme dorm decorating is a relatively new phenomena spurred by college students desperately trying to impressive each other and obsessed parents.

Hidy Kirkpatrick, a University of Alabama student showed off her vibrant dorm room in a 'highly requested dorm tour' video, which racked up over 170,000 views

She showed off her vibrant wall decor which included a bright pink neon sign that reads 'hello gorgeous'; Grace also decorated her room with gold frames and photos to add a luxurious feel to her school-issued room

Some brands are even transforming dorm rooms with their own decorations like boho brand Natural Life (pictured left before transformation), which created the most cozy dorm room, filled with colorful crochet blankets and pillows (shown right after)

The lifestyle brand added floral and butterfly tapestries, numerous rugs and curtains to make it the perfect place to relax after a long day of classes

The dorm room went from to drab to cheerful in seconds and the lifestyle brand made sure to cover up any empty space with pillows, artificial plants and colored floor cushions

The study noted that in all, American families often spend 5.6 billon on dorm decorating alone and $83.6 billion on back to school shopping.

According to the NRF, families of college-bound students spent a combined $5.9 billion on decorating dorms and $12.8 billion on electronics.

On average, when preparing to send their child off to college, each family spent $134.20 on food, $81.38 on shoes and $142.90 on clothing.

Store deals skyrocket during back to school season, with Bed, Bath & Beyond offering an entire dorm registry for those going back to school and stores like Target and Home Goods offering heavy promotions.

Some brands are even transforming dorms themselves to advertise their back to school dorm essentials.

Natural Life is a boho brand that focuses on a 'free spirit style.'

The brand took to TikTok to show how they used their boho decor to transform a dorm room into a hippie's dream.

Natural Life created the most cozy dorm room, filled with colorful crochet blankets, pillows, floral and butterfly tapestries and numerous rugs.

The dorm room went from to drab to cheerful in seconds and the lifestyle brand made sure to cover up any empty space with pillows, artificial plants and colored floor cushions.

And as more and more students share their dorm transformations on social media, incoming freshman are inspired by Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok, creating higher expectations for what their school-issued rooms should look like.

Despite the rise and fall of the economy in the past few years, the NRF reports dorm spending is immune to the economy highs and lows and will continue to grow.

And as virtual learning is on the retreat, many are predicting the highest levels of spending in back to school shopping in several years.

The college students impressed TikTok users with their HGTV-level of transformations and many were shocked at how the students got their prison like school-issued rooms looking better then some of the users homes

The college students impressed TikTok users with their HGTV-level of transformations and many were shocked at how the students got their prison like school-issued rooms looking better then some of the users homes.

One user said: 'Love love love!!!'

'Ok it went from prison to paradise,' commented another user

'Living for Bama Rush Tok and all things fab dorm room! Yours is #goals even if I'm almost an 40- year-old mom,' said another user.

'You somehow turned a prison cell into a cute bedroom and I'm absolutely all for it,' added another user.

One user commented: Literal dorm goals.'

'Yes adorable,' added another user.

One user wrote: 'It's so cute.'
SHOPPING: Products featured in this article are independently selected by our shopping writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, MailOnline will earn an affiliate commission.

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Beautifully crafted in polyester, the Kinstel Women's Shirred Midi Dress features self-tie shoulder straps and a shirred elasticated bodice, so finding your perfect fit is a cinch.

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Siblings who recently discovered one another after 50 years apart are left tearful when reuniting with their late mother's younger sister on Long Lost Family: What Happened Next.

Ann Jordan, 56, from Hampshire, was adopted aged seven and began looking for her birth mother Jean after her adoptive parents died within months of each other when she was just 22.

She initially learned on Long Lost Family in 2019 that her birth mother had died aged 31 - however, she also discovered she has a half-sister, Florence Banfield, 54, who lives in Northern Ireland.

Following their emotional reunion on the show, the two launched a search for family members on their late mother's side, and in tonight's episode, the siblings met their aunt Maureen, Jean's younger sister.

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Siblings who recently discovered one another after 50 years apart are left tearful when reuniting with their late mother's younger sister on Long Lost Family: What Happened Next

Ann Jordan, 56, from Hampshire, was adopted aged 7 and began looking for her birth mother Jean (pictured) after her adoptive parents died within months of each other when she was just 22

She learned on Long Lost Family in 2019 that her birth mother had died aged 31 - however, she also found her half-sister, Florence. The two soon launched a search for family members on their mother's side, and in tonight's episode, the siblings met their aunt Maureen (pictured)

Florence had last met Maureen when she was aged seven but the two lost touch after she returned to Northern Ireland with her father following her mother's death.

The three reunited in emotional scenes on tonight's programme as the siblings explored their mother's hometown in the North of England.

'After mum died, I lost all contact with this side of her family. We moved away, went to Ireland, and that was it. I never saw them again,' explained Florence, who last saw her aunt when she was just seven-years-old.

Maureen had actually been trying to find Florence, but she had no idea about Ann.

'Ann and Flo are my nieces. And they always will be my nieces, no matter where they are born. They are family,' Maureen said, before sharing some of their mother's favourite places with the sisters.

'What Florence and Anne want is for their mother to be here, and she won't be here. She never will be again.

'She can't hold them, she can't kiss them, can't say she loves them. That won't happen. The best thing you can do is learn about her and all anybody can tell her and take that to heart,' added Maureen.

The three reunited in emotional scenes on tonight's programme as the siblings explored their mother's hometown in the North of England

Later in the programme, Ann and Florence also met two of their cousins, Andrew and Louise (pictured all together)

Ann and Florence were shown where their late mother grew up, with Maureen explaining that it was cramped conditions.

'At least I'm standing outside the house where she grew up,' said Ann. 'It's a huge step. I'm walking in her shoes, that's a comfort to me.

'... At least I know more about my mum, her history and my past where I came from, which is really important. And I think any adoptive person will resonate with that. You need to know where you come from.'

Later in the programme, Ann and Florence also met two of their cousins, Andrew and Louise.

In 2019, when first meeting Florence, Ann said: 'When I got the news [about my mum] I was really devastated. But then to be told I had a sister and I could not believe it.'

In 2019, when first meeting Florence (pictured), Ann said: 'When I got the news [about my mum] I was really devastated. But then to be told I had a sister and I could not believe it.'

Ann, who was engaged at the time of their reunion, even decided to ask Florence to walk her down the aisle in place of her parents.

Speaking on the show, Ann told how she was adopted by Barbara and Ronald Jordan, of Surrey, at the age of 7.

'I never gave it a second thought to be honest with you,' she says. 'I just felt loved and wanted.'

But she was left feeling 'cheated' when her parents both died within six months of one another when she was 22.

Her mother died from a sudden heart attack and, six months on, she found her father dead in bed.

Ann said: 'It was a really difficult time, I did go off the rails. They were my rock, my stability really.'

Ann was left devastated when her adoptive parents died within six months of one another when she was just 22 (pictured above Barbara and Ronald Jordan)

Ann said she was determined to find her birth mother after losing her adoptive parents when she was 22 (pictured with her adoptive mother Barbara Jordan)

Armed with her birth mother's name and birth date, Ann tried to find her with the help of private investigators and the Salvation Army.

She also phoned most of the people in the phone book with her mother's name, but nobody knew her. She was determined to find her mother before her wedding as she hoped the birth parent would walk her down the aisle.

'Everyone has their mums at their wedding don't they?,' she said. 'And I wouldn't. I can imagine my wedding, but I want to look behind me and see my mum in the front of the church looking proud.'

Producers on Long Lost Family were able to use the few details Ann provided to hunt down her mother - but tragically, they discovered she had died at the age of 31.

Just a year after giving Ann up for adoption, Jean had married and given birth to a daughter called Florence, who lived in Northern Ireland.

Both women said they could see features of their mother in one another (pictured above, Jean Gorley)

And Flo reveals she had had a 'very lonely' childhood, saying: 'My mum died when I was a child so I presumed it was just me so I was just shocked. She died of cancer when I was seven and a half. It changes you when you don't have a mum. It's not the same.'

She explained: 'It makes you grow up instantly. And you have to look after yourself. I did feel very lonely. The world stopped.'

Florence revealed she had no idea Ann existed, saying: 'If I ever knew I would have wanted to find her. You wouldn't just leave her out all that time. You'd have brought her back to the family.'

Florence was stunned when she was shown a photo of Ann. 'Oh my goodness,' she said. 'She reminds me of me.'

Emotionally, she continued: 'I just wish I could have met her years ago. We could have looked out for each other.'

Ann was devastated to learn of her mother's death but was thrilled about the news of her sister and travelled to London to meet her.

And as the women met, they fell into an embrace with Ann bursting into tears. Flo said: 'I wish I had known you years ago, it would have been amazing.'

Ann responded: 'It would have been because it sounds like you had things quite tough. You were so young when she died, it must be so hard.'
A friend of Dame Deborah James has paid tribute to the late campaigner's 'love for life' in an emotional social media post.

Author and motivational speaker Emma Campbell, who lives with breast cancer, met Dame Deborah when they were both undergoing treatment at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea, London.

The campaigner and mother-of-two died aged 40 on June 28, after a five-year battle with stage four bowel cancer.

Emma has now shared an emotional video of Deborah on Instagram, which was filmed by the late campaigner during her cancer treatment.

In the written accompanying post, Emma praised Deborah's determination to say 'yes' to life, revealing how she inspired her to live to the full.

Author and motivational speaker Emma Campbell, who lives with breast cancer, paid tribute to the late Dame Deborah James' 'unwavering love for life' in an emotional Instagram post

Emma met Dame Deborah when they were both undergoing treatment at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea, London

The cancer patient said she 'missed' her friend and revealed how Dame Deborah's memory helped her going through her own treatment

The video showed Dame Deborah wearing a blue dress with an IV line in hospital.

'Now, we're not allowed to have friends or family when we have chemo, but, it's the best chemo day because my friend Emma is in the chair next to me,' she said.

'We've known each other for three years, and we were just working out how we met, and I'm going to show you a photograph of when we first met,' she said, in the extract.

Another clip, this time taken filmed by Emma, showed Deborah in her hospital bed, receiving treatment, with the caption 'Not sure I'll ever forget today with @bowelbabe.'

In the video shared by Emma, Dame Deborah could be seen rejoicing in the fact they were having chemo together, noting how good it was to have a friend for support in those hard moments

Emma often appeared in the video Dame Debs filmed dancing in hospital throughout her cancer treatment

The sweet video was accompanied by an emotional piece of writing, with Emma beginning with: 'I miss my friend.'

She continuned: 'I miss her smile, her glow and the way she embodied what so many of us strive to access. A pure and unwavering love for life.

'She showed up. Always. She made me feel that I could dig a little deeper. I bet she made you feel like that too,' she added.

Emma, a mother-of-two herself, went on: 'She unknowingly taught me to believe that maybe I could find the inner core that so often went into hiding.

Emma was among the first friends of Dame Deborah to pay tribute to the campaigner when she passed away in June

'She gifted so many of us with a 'If she can do it so can I' attitude even if it meant we had to fake it to make it.'

She also paid tribute to the videos she and Deborah recorded dancing in hospital throughout their treatment, calling it 'Jazz hands and chemo choreography.'

'I miss being around someone for whom saying "yes" to life came so naturally. Seizing the moment seemed to be an intrinsic part of her DNA and not just because cancer came but because that's who she was,' she said.

She went to reveal that thanks to Deborah, she is no longer 'scared' of going into the Royal Marsden for treatment.

'I stride up them now because I'm privileged to be there.

Dame Deborah James (pictured at Royal Ascot 2022) passed away at the end of June aged 40

'Not privileged to be a cancer patient, but fortunate to be part of such an incredible community of patients and professionals who live and breathe with an awareness that we all just want to be here. For as long as we can,' she added.

It comes as an extract from Dame Deborah's book, How to Live when You Could be Dead, revealed the campaigner used to suffer panic attacks before she was diagnosed with cancer.

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A change in bowel habits lasting at least three weeks

Unexplained weight loss

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Abdominal pain Most cases have no clear cause, however, people are more at risk if they: Are over 50

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The broadcaster and campaigner revealed in the book, to be published posthumously that she lived with anxiety for 20 years.

Extracts from Dame Deborah's book, How to Live when you Could be Dead, detail the terrifying panic attacks that she lived with for most of her life.

She said the episodes would sometimes wake her up in the night with a feeling she was dying, The Sun reports.

In one incident, the mother-of-two had a panic attack in the changing rooms at Karen Millen, which caused her to run outside the shop wearing only her underwear.

Looking back after receiving a terminal bowel cancer diagnosis, the former headteacher pointed out the irony of being so terrified of dying when she was perfectly healthy.

When she received her diagnosis at the age of 35, Dame Deborah said she had 'no choice' but to look her greatest fear in the eye.

After enjoying Christmas 2021 with her husband Seb and children, Hugo, 14, and Eloise, 12, a test at the beginning of January showed Dame Deborah's liver function was 'dangerously out of kilter'.

Further tests revealed the tumour around her bile duct had grown in the four months she had stopped cancer treatment and had caused a blockage.

She was booked in for an operation on the tumour the following day, but that night, she recalled feeling very unwell and dizzy.

She described how Seb came home to find her barely conscious and unable to speak before bundling her into the car and rushing her to Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

There, Dame Deborah was taken into resuscitation where the 'amazing' staff managed to stabilise her.

Later, medics discovered the tumour around her bile duct had ruptured the portal vein, and other veins in her oesophagus were also bleeding - which required several operations.

After spending 10 days in hospital unsure if she would ever make it back home, Dame Deborah explained how she learnt to 'break the cycle' of negative thinking about her illness.

When she returned home, she forced herself to get out of the house and go for a walk so she could enjoy life.

She wrote: 'If youve got a one per cent chance of living, thats something to hold on to. A one per cent chance is better than nothing.'

Sadly, after getting over the terrifying incident, Dame Deborah's health continued to spiral until May 2022, when it became clear there was nothing more doctors could do for her.

She recalled having to make the 'devastating' decision to go to her parents' house in Woking to receive hospice care.

Writing in her final days, Dame Deborah said it was 'becoming hard to live every single day' because she was weak and exhausted.

As people continued to call her 'brave' for fighting on, she argued the alternative was much worse and all she was doing was taking small steps to keep living every day.

She said: 'The truth is, we are all braver than we realise.'

How to Live when you Could be Dead will be published on 18 August
Viewers of Good Grief with Reverend Richard Coles were left in floods of tears as he choked up with emotion while writing a song about his alcoholic partner who 'promised to love him until he died.'

Rev Coles lost his partner David, who he wed in 2010, to alcoholism in December 2019, and later wrote a memoir, The Madness of Grief, about living with someone in the grips of alcohol addiction - and the 'paralysing' period of sadness that followed.

He appeared in the Channel 4 documentary last night where he met with different people across the UK to discuss the varying methods of coping with grief.

During one particularly emotional moment, Richard visited a widow's retreat on Isle of Bute, where he wrote a song for his late husband, reading aloud: 'We came here I remember, it was 10 years ago. It was the first summer when the sea shift bloomed. You sang, I'll love you till I die. And that you didn't fail.'

Many of those watching the programme were left in floods of tears over the scene, with one writing: 'Such a tender, thoughtful film about his own grief and that of others. The singing of his beautiful poem was transfixing...lump to the throat.'

Viewers of Good Grief with Reverend Richard Coles were left in floods of tears as he choked up with emotion while writing a song about his alcoholic partner David 'promising to love him until he died'

Rev Coles lost his partner David, who he wed in 2010, to alcoholism in December 2019, and later wrote a memoir, The Madness of Grief, about living with someone in the grips of alcohol addiction - and the 'paralysing' period of sadness that followed

Another added: 'Thankyou for Good Grief. Made me laugh out loud and cry buckets. It's been nearly eight years, but as much of a pain in the a** she could be, I love my mum and miss her lots.'

A third wrote: 'Beautiful poem, song, images. Crying with you.'

The 59-year-old, who shot to fame in his twenties as one half of pop band The Communards with Jimmy Somerville, has continued to enjoy life in the public eye, appearing on shows including The Chase and Strictly Come Dancing.

In December, the priest won BBC One's Celebrity MasterChef Christmas Cook-Off.

Many of those watching the documentary confessed they had been left in floods of tears by the performance

Before David's death, the couple lived with their dogs Daisy, Pongo, Audrey and Horatio in the vicarage of St Mary's in Finedon.

They met after David approached Richard for advice on joining the clergy and soon developed romantic feelings for each other but maintained a celibate relationship.

David's death in December 2019 shocked parishioners, as he kept his failing health private while battling illness for more than a year.

David, who became increasingly ill with liver disease, was determined to keep the drinking problem that eventually killed him a secret, however there were public outbursts including one that involved the police.

After David died, Rev Richard explained how he had asked his partner's family for permission to share his experiences of life with an addict - in the hopes of helping others in the same situation.

During the film, he took part in a widow's retreat where he was tasked with writing a song about David

He told The Guardian in 2020 that he 'discovered' how much he wanted to express himself after David's passing in 2019.

Among the activities Richard tried during the documentary were laughter yoga and surfing therapy.

He later travelled to the Isle of Bute, where he took part in a widows retreat, which is designed around solidarity.

Ute Amann-Seidel, who is the founder of the retreat, explained: 'Losing your life partner...you can't really compare it to any other type of grief because your future gets taken away.'

In the poem, Richard detailed a trip the couple had taken to the Isle of Bute during an early stage of their relationship

'You find yourself in a new normal and you have to design a new future.'

She said her retreats are designed to offer peer support, adding: 'Just to feel you're not alone on this journey and there's other people going through the same things.'

During one meeting, he spoke of how his partner would wind up a grandfather clock in the hall but never told him how to do it.

Meanwhile he went on to have a session with music therapist Yvonne Lyon where he penned a poem about his grief.

Songwriter Yvonne Lyon was left emotional after hearing Richard's poem, before she went on to sing it for him

Richard explained: 'I don't know if what I've written is even singable. I quite like it actually.'

Reading his poem aloud, he said: 'Walking the beach in winter, salt spray stinging. A dog came out of nowhere, running over the shingle.

'She circled me, not knowing if I'm a friend or foe.'

'We came here I remember, it was 10 years ago. It was the first summer when the sea shift bloomed. You sang, I'll love you till I die. And that you didn't fail.'

He continued: 'The memory comes in close, and circles. then it's gone. Running over the wet stones while I walk on.'

There was a moments pause after he finished reading the poem, and Yvonne said it was 'absolutely beautiful'.

Rev Richard with his partner Rev David Coles, who died in December 2019 ; Rev Richard's memoir The Madness of Grief documented the 'paralysing' period of sadness that followed David's death

The musician continued: 'The very essence of music itself, does something in your brain.

'It can be a tool to help you find meaning within that. It can give you a moment of meaning in the midst of it.'

Later, as Yvonne played the guitar and sang Richard's words aloud, the priest couldn't help but get choked up.

Richard went on to say: 'I was absolutely with David through thick and thin, and I was with him till the very end.

'If you really love someone, part of you is destroyed when they die. I don't want to pretend that's not the case. I sometimes feel the tension that I will leave him behind.

'And I would never have left him behind. I feel a tinge of disloyalty in living more life without him.'
The great-niece of fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy Gabriella has announced the birth of her first child.

The style maven, who is an associate fashion editor at W Magazine, announced the birth of her son in an adorable post on Instagram this morning.

Achilles, who was born last week was seen wrapped up in a floral throw and wearing a white bob in a snap shared by his doting mother.

Gabriella, who lives in New York, tied the knot with Achilles' father Ugo de Mallmann in a lavish ceremony in Capri last year.

The great-niece of fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy Gabriella has announced the birth of her son Achilles this morning

The fashionista kept her announcement simple, quipping 'we made a human,' in her sweet post.

She went on: 'I am forever yours Achilles de Mallmann,' adding her son's birthday, 3 August, in the post.

The picture, which showed little Achilles fast asleep, was liked by Gabriela and Ugo's high society family and friends.

Her step-mother Zoe de Givenchy, Princess Eugenie's society BFF and LA 'power player,' gushed: 'Darling boy. We already love you so so much.'

Gabriella, who lives in New York, tied the knot with Achilles' father Ugo de Mallmann in a lavish ceremony in Capri last year

The post was also liked by Achilles' father Ugo, the dashing oil trader who sewpt Gabriella off her feet and married her in 2019 in Chelsea, before the couple hosted a lavish ceremony in Capri two years later, due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Gabriella cheekily announced the pregnancy with a holiday snap taken in Burano back in April.

Sharing a snap of her standing in front of a small bridge on the Italian island, with her blossoming bump peeking from under a bright pink jumper, she joked 'for once bump caused by baby, not food.'

Gabriella cheekily announced the pregnancy with a holiday snap taken in Burano back in April, pictured

The post was also liked by Achilles' father Ugo, the dashing oil trader who sewpt Gabriella off her feet and married her in 2019 in Chelsea, before the couple hosted a lavish ceremony in Capri two years later, due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Gabriella is the daughter of Olivier de Givenchy - financier at the prestigious JP Morgan - and the great niece of famous French designer Hubert de Givenchy.

She was born in the UK and educated at the renowned Queen's Gate School in Kensington, which celebrity chef Nigella Lawson and the Duchess of Cornwall also attended.

Meanwhile, her Paris-born husband Ugo is the cousin of Francois-Xavier de Mallmann, chairman of the banking division at Goldman Sachs.

Gabriella's brother Louis de Givenchy was a pageboy at the wedding of Princess Eugenie in 2018, so the guest-list for her nuptials was no doubt star-studded, with the bride also being friends of Talita von Furstenberg.

Gabriella's dress was expected to have been designed by the house of Givenchy at the time.

Gabriella is the daughter of Olivier de Givenchy - financier at the prestigious JP Morgan - and the great niece of famous French designer Hubert de Givenchy. She is known for her sense of style
Netflix has released a new trailer for the third 365 Days film which promises fans more steamy romps in the third instalment in the franchise.

The Next 365 Days, out on 19 August, will show the progression of the relationship between Laura Biel (Anna-Maria Sieklucka) and Mafia boss Massimo Torricelli (Michele Morrone).

Despite enormous controversy surrounding the release of the first film, Netflix has pressed ahead with the franchise's third installment.

The second film in the trilogy was released in April 2022, which came to a dramatic end when Laura was dramatically shot by Massimo's ex-lover Anna.

The new trailer confirms Laura made it through the shooting, with the new film set to explore their relationship further.

But clips appear to show Laura's turmoil as she has to make a decision about the future of her relationship.

When we left the couple at the end of the second film, Laura had become the object of Nacho's affections - and it seems that storyline will unfold further in the third installment.

In one shot of the trailer, Laura, dressed in a little black dress, stands at a square bar in a sleek club, where Nacho can be seen staring at her from the other side of the bar.

However, Massimo immediately steps into shot to block his beau's view of the love rival, giving an insight into the difficult decisions Laura will have to make in the film.

The Next 365 Days follows Laura and Massimo as their relationship hits the rocks - although raunchy clips from the trailer may have viewers fooled

The film franchise has become known for its steamy sex scenes which fans say make Fifty Shades of Grey look 'PG'

Laura, played by Anna-Maria Sieklucka, will have to make some tough decisions in the newest film in the trilogy

Tension appears to build between the pair as, in a later clip, Massimo says: 'I think you're hiding something from me' before throwing a glass on the floor.

Another clip shows Laura playing with fire as she is led across the side of an outdoor swimming pool by Nacho - and things get very close.

As she walks with Nacho, a voiceover says: 'A woman that lives only for her man will be unhappy forever.'

Laura also says: 'I need to figure out what I want.'

She is later pictured telling Massimo: 'There is no us.'

Although viewers will have to wait a little longer to find out Laura's decision, they can be sure to be entertained by yet more sultry scenes in the new film.

Several clips in the trailer show Massimo and Laura caught in the throes of passion, while the couple visits a pole dancing club in another scene.

In the first film Massimo (pictured), played by Michael Morrone, kidnaps Laura and holds her hostage for a year

Laura will have to choose between Massimo and Nacho, who has shown an interest in her since the second film in the franchise

When the first 365 Days film came out on 2020 it was slammed by campaigners who argued it glorified rape and trafficking as the storyline followed Massimo kidnapping Laura while she was on holiday in Sicily and giving her a year to fall in love with him while she is held hostage.

The films are based on a book trilogy by Polish author Blanka Lipinska.

As well as the controversial storyline the film also made headlines for its incredibly graphic sex scenes, with one seeing Laura tied up in a room so she can watch Massimo have a steamy encounter with a sex worker.

In one of the movie's most memorable scenes the pair finally have sex in a boat as Laura begins to fall under Massimo's spell.

Viewers were left open-mouthed by the racy sex scenes, claiming it made Fifty Shades of Grey look 'PG'.

But their dysfunctional relationship doesn't always run smoothly, as Massimo lashes out at Laura by dragging her into the bedroom after she sees one of his exes at a function.

Despite several complaints about the content of the film and a petition to remove it from Netflix gaining thousands of signatures, the streaming service stood firm.

A spokesperson said at the time: 'We believe strongly in giving our members around the world more choice and control over their Netflix viewing experience,' the spokesman said in emailed comments.

'Members can choose what they do and do not want to watch by setting maturity filters at a profile level and removing specific titles to protect from content they feel is too mature.'
Russia temporarily halts inspections of its facilities under New START treaty

Xinhua) 09:01, August 09, 2022

MOSCOW, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Russia has temporarily withdrawn its facilities from inspections under the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), the country's foreign ministry said in a statement Monday.

"Russia officially informed the United States ... that our country was temporarily withdrawing its facilities subject to inspections under this treaty from inspection activities," the ministry said.

Moscow was forced to suspend inspections "as a result of Washington's persistent attempts to restart inspection activities" under unfair conditions, which created advantages for the U.S. side, while simultaneously making it impossible for Russia to carry out inspections in the United States.

Anti-Russian restrictions, imposed by Washington, have disrupted air travel between Russia and the Untied States, making it impossible for Russian inspection teams to reach necessary destinations, the ministry said.

The ministry said that both sides must "abandon counterproductive attempts aimed at artificially speeding up the resumption of inspection activities" and focus on eliminating all existing problems in this area.

It said that the measures were temporary, and would be canceled if all existing issues were eliminated.

In 2010, Washington and Moscow signed the New START, which stipulates limits to the numbers of deployed nuclear warheads and strategic delivery systems by both.

The New START, the last remaining nuclear arms control treaty in force between the two nuclear superpowers, can be extended by a maximum of five years with the consent of the two countries. Russia and the United States officially extended the treaty by five years on Feb. 3, 2021.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
An extraordinary new memoir tells the story of how a woman discovered she has at least 40 siblings - and possibly over 100 - after finding out her father had secretly donated sperm to dozens of women.

Chrysta Bilton, who grew up in Los Angeles, was just 23 and a recent graduate in 2007 when she made the extraordinary discovery that her father, Jeffrey Harrison, who had himself donated sperm to her lesbian mother, had gone on to also father many more children.

Her astonishing new book, A Normal Family: The Surprising Truth About My Crazy Childhood (and How I Discovered 35 New Siblings), is released in the UK this week and takes the reader through the dramatic twists of her unique life, from a chaotic childhood living with a mother involved in pyramid scams and cults - leaving the family in both poverty and riches - to the discovery in her twenties that she had 'possibly over a hundred' siblings.

Chrysta Bilton, 37, grew up in Los Angeles with her mother Debra - a lesbian who flitted in and out of cults - and her younger sister Kaitlyn

Jeffrey Harrison, aka donor 150, was paid $2,000 by Bilton's mother Debra in the early 80s for his sperm

Harrison played a role in the lives of his two daughters with Debra... but continued to donate via the California Cyrobank, earning between $300 and $400 a month

The book is described as a 'love letter' to her mother Debra, now 75, who only told her daughters the truth about their father Jeffrey Harrison - who was known as 'donor 150' - and the families he'd created - after realizing that her eldest daughter, Bilton, might be dating her own half brother.

The memoir details how the author and her younger sister Kaitlyn spent their childhood oscillating between periods of 'extreme wealth and extreme poverty', saying the siblings had lived in both mansions and on the streets, as their mother dated different women and joined several cults, while trying to make millions through dubious pyramid scams.

Debra, now 75, sat her daughters down at 23 and broke news the sisters might have 'a few siblings' after reading an article about their father, Jeffrey Harrison's sperm donation (Pictured: Chrysta Bilton with her mother during her childhood)

Debra, Harrison and Bilton as a baby; more than two decades later Debra would discover Harrison had fathered many more children

Bilton, with her younger sister Kaitlyn, right, during their chaotic childhood. Of the moment she discovered her father had been donor 150, she said: 'My sister and I didnt know whether to cry or laugh, it was all so absurd.'

Keen to have children of her own as a single gay woman, Debra had paid Harrison $2,000 for his sperm and asked him to play a part in her daughters' lives, which he did...but didn't reveal to the family that he'd gone on to continue to sell his sperm to other women.

Using the California Cryobank, Harrison would make between $300 and $400 a month from donating sperm, and it's estimated that he has around 100 biological children - with Bilton in contact with at least 40 of them.

She shares how her mother finally broke the news to the sisters about their potential extended family, telling them: 'Your father was secretly a sperm donor and you have a few biological brothers and sisters.'

Now a mother herself, Bilton has a five year old and seven year old with her husband Nick, a British journalist

A half-sibling of Bilton's shared a photo of the extended family meeting up on Instagram

Debra, now 75, pictured in a recent Instagram post on Bilton's account, approves of the book - with her daughter saying the memoir is a 'love letter' to her mother

She told The Times this week: 'My sister and I didnt know whether to cry or laugh, it was all so absurd. If this was going to happen to anyone, of course it would be us. That was just the crazy life we lived.'

Out this week, Bilton's book documents her childhood and the discovery of donor 150 in her early twenties

In an interview with Woman's Hour, Bilton also explained that she now feels differently about her extended family and has even had many of them over to her home for dinner.

She told the BBC Radio 2 programme ahead of the book's publication that her father had been a 'complex man' who'd struggled with mental health issues and periods of homelessness.

Bilton told the show that said her brief relationship with her half-brother after graduating 'is what happens when sperm donation isn't regulated and you have a lot of half-siblings'.

The mother-of-two says it has taken her ten years 'to get over the trauma' of the revelation about her father's impregnation of so many women - but says she's now accepting of her unconventional family set-up.

'I invited them all to come and see me at my house and my attitude has changed towards it - now I see them as this extended biological family.'

A Normal Family: The Surprising Truth About My Crazy Childhood (and How I Discovered 35 New Siblings) by Chrysta Bilton is published by Monoray, priced 16.99
Japanese designer Issey Miyake, who was famed for his pleated style of clothing that never wrinkled and produced the signature black turtleneck of Apple Inc founder Steve Jobs, has died.

Miyake was born in Hiroshima and was seven years old when the atomic bomb was dropped on the city while he was in a classroom.

He began his fashion career in the late 1960s, working with couturiers like Hubert de Givenchy and Guy Laroche and his name quickly became a byword for Japan's economic and fashion prowess in the 1980s.

His pleat designs were beloved by celebrities including Doja Cat, Celine Dion and Solange Knowles.

Meanwhile he found fame after designing a uniform-like wardrobe of black turtlenecks for Jobs. In his biography of Jobs, Walter Issacson quoted Jobs as saying: 'I asked Issey to make me some of his black turtlenecks that I liked, and he made me like a hundred of them. I have enough to last for the rest of my life.'

The designer died on 5 August aged 84 of liver cancer, Kyodo news agency said. No further details were immediately available.

Japanese designer Issey Miyake, who was famed for his pleated style of clothing that never wrinkled and produced the signature black turtleneck of Apple Inc founder Steve Jobs, has died

In 2009, writing in the New York Times as part of a campaign to get then-U.S. President Barack Obama to visit the city, he said he did not want to be labelled as 'the designer who survived' the Hiroshima bomb.

He was reluctant to speak of the event in later life.

'When I close my eyes, I still see things no one should ever experience,' he wrote, adding that within three years, his mother died of radiation exposure.

'I have tried, albeit unsuccessfully, to put them behind me, preferring to think of things that can be created, not destroyed, and that bring beauty and joy.

Meanwhile his pleat designs were beloved by celebrities including Doja Cat (left, in May 2021) Celine Dion (right in 2019) and Solange Knowles

'I gravitated toward the field of clothing design, partly because it is a creative format that is modern and optimistic.'

His mother died of radiation exposure three years after the bombing.

Known for his practicality, Miyake is said to have wanted to become either a dancer or an athlete before reading his sister's fashion magazines inspired him to change direction.

Those original interests are believed to be behind the freedom of movement his clothing permits.

Meanwhile he found fame after designing a uniform-like wardrobe of black turtlenecks for Jobs (pictured)

After studying graphic design at a Tokyo art university, he learnt clothing design in Paris, where he worked with famed fashion designers Guy Laroche and Hubert de Givenchy.

He then headed to New York. In 1970 he returned to Tokyo and founded the Miyake Design Studio.

In his biography of Jobs, Walter Issacson details the origins of the design friendship which led to the Apple leader's self-styled uniform.

Mr Isaacson was shown piles of turtlenecks in Jobs' closet. 'That's what I wear...I have enough to last for the rest of my life.'

Other stars to wear the Japanese designer's creations include Beyonce's sister Solange Knowles (pictured in 2014)

In the late 1980s, he developed a new way of pleating by wrapping fabrics between layers of paper and putting them into a heat press, with the garments holding their pleated shape.

Tested for their freedom of movement on dancers, this led to the development of his signature 'Pleats, Please' line.

Eventually he developed more than a dozen fashion lines ranging from his main Issey Miyake for men and women to bags, watches and fragrances before essentially retiring in 1997 to devote himself to research.

In 2016, when asked what he thought were the challenges facing future designers, he indicated to the Guardian newspaper that people were likely to be consuming less.

'We may have to go through a thinning process. This is important,' he was quoted as saying.

'In Paris, we call the people who make clothing couturiers - they develop new clothing items - but actually the work of designing is to make something that works in real life.'

In 2009, writing in the New York Times as part of a campaign to get then-U.S. President Barack Obama to visit the city, he said he did not want to be labelled as 'the designer who survived' the Hiroshima bomb
A man has gone viral after taking his three cats on dreamy trips around the world with him.

Dan Nguyen, from New York, has over 318,000 following his travels on his Instagram page @spongecake_thescottishfold and his TikTok page @spongecake_cats has over 201,000 followers.

Along with his wife Olivia, who is behind the camera, the pair capture sweet snaps as they travel around the world with their adorable pets.

The couple capture their adventures across America and European cities such as Venice, Paris and Milan.

Dan Nguyen, from New York, has gone viral after taking his three cats on dreamy trips around the world with him

The kittens, who are named Sponge Cake, Mocha, and Donut, began as indoor pet but they were trained to travel.

Dan, who works as a lawyer, said they took them' through Central Park a lot' to get the cats used to people and the outdoors before progressing to traveling abroad.

Speaking on This Morning to Craig Doyle and Josie Gibson, Dan said: We took them through Central Park a lot, they did very well there and so we took them to the city, so we went down 5th Avenue to Time Square and they got used to it.'

He continued: 'Then when we thought about traveling we thought there is no reason they go with us, and we didn't want to go with out them, so we decided to bring them along with us.'

Dan has over 318,000 following his travels on his Instagram page @spongecake_thescottishfold were he shares adorable snaps of the cats in cities such as Paris

Along with his wife Olivia, who is behind the camera, the pair capture sweet snaps of the cats in front of famous landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Fransisco

The kittens, who are named Sponge Cake, Mocha, and Donut, began as indoor pet but they were trained to travel to locations such as Paris

Dan, who wrote Adventure Cats: How to Train Your Cat for Outdoor Adventures, said it is easy to teach the cats 'incrementally' with a lot of treats, gentle petting, and encouragement.

Speaking to Insider, Dan said he and Olivia got Sponge Cake and Mocha, two Scottish Fold cats, and Donut, a British Shorthair, in 2020.

He called the kittens 'pandemic babies' has they got them in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dan said they took the cats down to 5th Avenue to Time Square and they got used to the noise and crowds

The sweet cats often wear adorable bows or knitted jumpers during the travels around the world to cities such as Venice

Dan admitted with gradual training, the indoor cats gradually grew accustomed to the outside world (pictured in New York)

He admitted with gradual training, the indoor cats gradually grew accustomed to the outside world.

Their first adventure was a trip through Orlando, San Francisco, and Sacramento in 2021.

Olivia started the social media accounts in November 2021, as the family embarked on their first international trip to Paris and it wasn't long before the pages started raking up thousands of views from pet lovers.

The pair said they are aiming to visit Switzerland in the Autumn with their sweet pets.

Speaking on This Morning to Craig Doyle and Josie Gibson, Dan said the cats travel in a carrier and go under the seat in front of him on a flight

Dan admitted getting certifications from their vets for certain airlines was helpful and making sure the cats had the correct vaccinations prior to traveling

Taking Sponge Cake, Mocha, and Donut abroad can get complicated as most countries have different rules about traveling with cats.

Dan admitted getting certifications from their vets for certain airlines was helpful and making sure the cats had the correct vaccinations prior to traveling.

Some airlines require animals to be put into the hold under the plane, however Dan and Olivia's cats are small enough to go in the cabin.

Speaking on This Morning Dan said: 'They go into a carrier and go under the seat in front. They sleep and eat treats for the full flight.
Prince Ludwig of Bavaria has announced his engagement to Oxford criminology student Sophie-Alexandra Evekink.

The royal, 40, is the eldest son of Prince Luitpold and the great-great grandson of Bavaria's last King Ludwig III, while Sophie was born in Singapore to a Dutch-Canadian family.

Rumours started mounting that the pair were set to marry after she was spotted wearing a large emerald ring on her engagement finger at a wedding the couple attended last week.

Speaking to Germany's Bild newspaper, Prince Luitpold said he hoped the couple would 'start a family soon', adding: 'Ludwig made a good choice. My future daughter-in-law is a very intelligent and educated woman.'

News of their engagement was shared by Office of the Bavarian Royal House alongside two pictures of the couple in which they can be seen posing in traditional outfits.

Prince Ludwig of Bavaria, 40, has announced his engagement to Oxford criminology student Sophie-Alexandra Evekink, 32

Prince Ludwig, whose parents are Prince Luitpold and Princess Beatrix, is the eldest of five siblings.

He spent much of his childhood at Schloss Kaltenberg, and attended the Rhabanus-Maurus-Gymnasium St. Ottilien in Eresing.

As an 18-year-old, he founded his own IT company before he went on to study law in Gottingen, where he focused on human rights.

Since 2011, he has also shown a great interest in East Africa and specifically Kenya.

Speaking to Germany's Bild newspaper, Prince Luitpold said he hoped the couple would 'start a family soon'

In 2015, he founded Startup Lions, which is described online as a 'digital empowerment program, providing opportunities to learn, earn and innovate for young adults in rural Kenya.'

He now serves as CEO of the company, and spends ten months of the year in East Africa and two months in Bavaria.

While in the country, the royal is also already very involved in his family and regularly accompanies his father to public events.

It is not known how or when Prince Ludwig met his future wife Sophie, who also has a high powered career of her own.

She is the daughter of Dorus Evekink, who works as a lecturer at Maastricht School of Business.

The student, who has dual Dutch/Canadian citizen, has a Bachelors degree in Politics and East European Studies from University College London (UCL) and a Masters in Science from the University of Oxford.

Sophie, who previously worked in New York for seven years, is currently working towards a pHd at University of Oxford which focuses on justice for victims of conflict-related sexual violence

She is currently working towards a pHd at University of Oxford which focuses on justice for victims of conflict-related sexual violence.

She previously worked for seven years in New York at the United Nations in various roles.

According to an online biography of the future royal, Sophie 'has a keen interest in violence prevention and womens human rights, themes on which she has conducted research in the Middle East and Caucasus, as well as a passion for efforts which help build global consensus and bridge voices of the Global North and South.

According to an online biography of the future royal, Sophie 'has a keen interest in violence prevention and womens human rights' (pictured left and right, at work)

'She has previously also written on terrorism and radicalisation, and human trafficking in Central and Eastern Europe.'

It is understood Prince Ludwig proposed to Sophie in Berchtesgaden and it is currently unknown where the couple will go on to live.

Rumours of the couple's engagement mounted last week after they attended a wedding with Sophie wearing a glittering ring on her engagement finger.

The jewel appears to be a large green rock set into a platinum band.

The wedding date is yet to be scheduled.
Princess Mary and Prince Frederik have announced which schools they will be sending their two eldest children to in September.

The Danish royal family removed their eldest son Christian, 16, from his prestigious high school in June after serious allegations of sexual assault and bullying were levelled against the establishment.

Their second eldest child, Isabella, 15, had also planned to attend the Herlufsholm Boarding School near Copenhagen, but the royals confirmed she would not be starting there as a result of the scandal.

Now the Danish Royal House has released a statement announcing the family's plans for September, revealing that the two children will attend different day schools near Copenhagen.

Princess Mary and Prince Frederik of Denmark (top, right and centre right) have announced their two eldest children Prince Christian (top left) and Princess Isabella (bottom centre) will attend separate schools in September after their planned school faced serious allegations of bullying (also pictured are their two youngest children Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent)

Prince Christian will start 2nd grade at the Ordrup Gymnasium in Charlottenlund, near Copenhagen (pictured) after the summer holidays

Meanwhile, Princess Isabella will start the 9th grade at the Ingrid Jespersen's Gymnasieskole in Nordre Frihavnsgade in Copenhagen after the Summer holidays

It said: 'After the Crown Princes familys deliberations during the summer, a decision has been made about the coming school year.

'In the new school year, HRH Prince Christian starts 2nd grade at Ordrup Gymnasium in Gentofte and HRH Princess Isabella starts 9th grade at Ingrid Jespersens Gymnasieskole in Copenhagen.'

The latest announcement follows a statement published in June, in which the royals addressed the controversy around Christian's school.

They said: 'The question about our son Christian's and our daughter Isabella's choice of school has been very important for us, and the unfortunate matter has brought many and strong opinions into play in the public.

Princess Mary and Prince Frederik have removed their eldest son Christian from a prestigious Danish high school after serious allegations of sexual assault and bullying were levelled against the establishment

'That is completely understandable when it deals with the well-being of children and young people. At the same time, it has been important to stand by our basic idea that major decisions must be made on an informed basis. We now have that basis.'

Herlufsholm Boarding School became the subject of a documentary that saw two former students describe their dealings with sexual assault and another of corporal punishment.

Four students were expelled by the school for taking part in the alleged abuse and filming parts of it.

Prince Christian, who is 16 and first joined the school in August last year, is not connected to the allegations in any way.

Prince Christian, who is 16 and first joined the school in August last year, is not connected to the allegations in any way

The statement continued: 'It has been a difficult process for us as a family, but, based on the overall picture and our special position as Crown Prince Couple, we have chosen that Prince Christian will stop at Herlufsholm and that Princess Isabella will not start in ninth class at the school after the summer holiday.

'During the summer, we, together with our children, will make a decision about their future choice of schools.

'With thoughts about the many students who will continue at Herlufsholm, it is our hope that the school now gets more peace to ensure the necessary changes and succeeds in creating a culture in which all thrive and feel safe.'

When the documentary first came to light in May the royal family were swift in their response, sharing their deep disappointment with the rest of Europe.

'As parents of a child who goes to Herlufsholm, we are deeply shaken by the testimonies that have emerged in the current documentary about the school,' the couple said on May 4.

'It is heartbreaking to hear about systematic bullying and about the culture of abuse and violence that many have been a part of.

When the documentary first came to light in May the royal family were swift in their response, sharing their deep disappointment with the rest of Europe

Herlufsholm was founded almost 500 years ago for Danish nobility and has seen a number of royals and political figures attend (Prince Christian pictured)

'That is completely unacceptable. As parents, we expect the school to effectively ensure a culture where everyone is safe and part of the community, and we will in the coming time follow the changes that are obviously necessary.'

Herlufsholm was founded almost 500 years ago for Danish nobility and has seen a number of royals and political figures attend.

The school's principal Mikkel Kjellberg, who was fired shortly after the documentary came to light, said the allegations contained within the television program were 'very old cases have been used from another time - where the culture at Herlufsholm was different'.

'Bullying, violence or sexual abuse is not acceptable at Herlufsholm School,' Kjellberg said at the time.
An Australian mum-of-two has shown how she made her own $5 at-home version of honey chicken using a budget buy from Aldi.

The Adelaide home chef whipped up a super-cheap 'fake-away' using Aldi's $3.59 tempura chicken nuggets, honey and steamed rice.

She impressed hundreds with her extremely budget-friendly meal after she shared it to popular Facebook page Aldi Mums.

An Adelaide home chef shared how she whipped up a honey chicken 'fake-away' for just $5 to feed her family of four

The thrifty mum topped the crunchy tempura nuggets with a drizzle of honey to create a similar experience to those you'd try at a Chinese restaurant.

'When you're on a budget and the kids want honey chicken!! I know it's not the healthiest but it's so good!' she wrote in a post.

'ALDI tempura chicken nuggets topped with honey and steamed rice $5.00 dinner, one adult and two kids.'

The bite-sized crunchy snacks caused a stir when the supermarket giant re-released them last year, causing shoppers to rush to get their hands on a packet.

The tempura-coated nuggets have a health star rating of 3.5 stars out of five and are made with Australian chicken breast.

For her budget meal, the mum-of-two used Aldi's popular $3.59 tempura chicken nuggets topped with honey and served with steamed rice

Many group members in the comments were wowed by the simple and affordable take-away dupe and others were sharing their similar lazy dinners.

'Those nuggets are amazing!!!! Awesome in their air fryer and some out all crunchy and yum!!!' one woman exclaimed.

'Ohhh! I hadn't thought of putting honey on the nuggets! I have to give it a try!,' wrote another.

'I'm sure the kids loved it. Sometimes when I can't be bothered I get chicken pops and heat up sweet and sour sauce and have with steamed or fried rice,' replied a third while another suggested adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds over the top.

'I've done similar with chicken pops and lemon sauce,' explained another member.

Amid rising cost of living more Australian parents are sharing the budget ways they're feeding their families.

One mum revealed how she feeds her family-of-five for as little as $3.70 a head without compromising on nutrition or flavour.

Lee Dias, 38, from the south coast of New South Wales feeds herself, her husband, their five-year-old daughter and one-year-old twins for just $160 a week. Pictured: Spinach, Ricotta & Sweet Potato Lasagne costing $2.15 per serving

Lee shares her top tips on grocery budgeting to her 23,000 Instagram followers. Pictured: Chicken schnitzel with $10.45 total for four lunches

Lee Dias, 38, from the south coast of New South Wales feeds herself, her husband, their five-year-old daughter and one-year-old twins for just $160 a week.

She shares her top tips on grocery budgeting to her 23,000 Instagram followers with her delicious recipes including sweet potatoes with chicken schnitzel, potato salad, lemon chicken noodle bowls and honey pepper BBQ pork steaks.

The influencer says she use to 'randomly shop' without much of a plan, but once she started organising she saved more than ever before.

Her delicious recipes including sweet potatoes with chicken schnitzel, potato salad, lemon chicken noodle bowls and honey pepper BBQ pork steaks. Pictured: Chicken Rice Bowls for $1.25 per bowl

San Choy Bau Rice Bowl (vegetarian) which cost just $7.32 to feed two adults and three children

While she allocated $160 to spend a week, often it comes at just $100 - which is just $2.85 per head per day.

She always avoids shopping week-to-week, checks the pantry before going to the supermarket and uses less meat.

Feeding a family of two adults and three kids can be challenging at times, but Ms Dias has a passion for food and shops at numerous leading supermarkets for the best deals.

Lee's top tips for saving money on groceries 1. Don't shop every week Ms Dias' 'biggest budgeting tip' is to avoid visiting the supermarket every week and buy items that are on special. 'Try buy multiple items when they are on sale and keep a little stockpile at home to get you through until it goes on sale again,' she said. 'If something you use goes on half-price-sale, buy a few. It can take a little time to build a stock pile, but doing a little each week will help build that pantry and freezer stock.' 2. Use less meat Ms Dias also opts to use less meat to feed her family, which she says is better for their health, budget and the environment. 'We love our food, and love meat, so we just reduce the amount in each meal,' she said. For example, rather than buying chicken thighs and cooking the entire packet, she divides the amount into smaller servings then freezes it for another date. 3. Try new recipes and prepare meals using similar ingredients As the price of groceries is skyrocketing due to inflation, Ms Dias suggests trying new recipes using similar ingredients. 'It reduces wastage if you don't need the whole pack for one recipe, and it can reduce the grocery bill by buying things in bulk,' she said. The family enjoy Vietnamese-style foods, including roast vegetable cous cous, topped with a seasoned chicken thigh, and lemon mayonnaise. Like thousands of other families, Ms Dias is worried about the rising cost of living. When her family expanded from three to five, she decided to become a stay-at-home mum, reducing the income to one salary. 'The biggest hit for us recently has been the rise in mortgage repayments, soaring fuel prices, and grocery price increases,' she said. 'I am having to rely on the freezer and pantry stockpile more and more, but as I do that, it will slowly run down, without me having the ability to shop the specials to keep it at a good sustainable level. 'If it continues, I'll need to explore different meal options, and reduce the grocery bill more and more to get by.' A report recently found almost all (98 per cent) Aussie grocery shoppers have noticed an increase in the overall cost of items like petrol, groceries and household bills compared to previous years, with over four in five (81 per cent) concerned about the affordability of living costs in the next year. In fact, Aussies are most worried about grocery affordability (51 per cent) second only to petrol (59 per cent). Surprisingly, only one in 10 (9 per cent) of Australians have switched supermarkets as a strategy to save money despite statistics showing shopping at multiple stores is the best method for saving. Advertisement

The influencer says she use to 'randomly shop' without much of a plan, but once she started organising she saved more than ever before. Pictured: Potato Salad for $2.78 per serve

The mum started meal prepping in her 20s, because there were 'so many recipes' she wanted to try.

This kicked when she welcomed twins 18 months ago.

'I had just stopped work to be a stay-at-home mum, and so we were only having one income, and it was important to start budgeting properly,' she told News.

Pizza for less than $1 a serve! Lee paid $2.96 for this pizza which served three people

Pork with vegetables costing $16.54 total for five people is pictured

Chicken drumstick fillet, with cous cous and vegetables cost just $9.86 for five people

'Previously, when I'd shop haphazardly, I'd easily spend over $200 a week, but I allocate $160 in total for groceries, and $130 of this goes to food.

'Being organised saves money, time, stress and pressure.'

The mum-of-three mostly shops at Coles and makes sure to take advantage of Flybuys. She also shops locally, and often heads to farmers markets for the freshest produce.

Ms Dias says she's 'very strategic' when she shops and always makes the best of half-price specials, trying always to shop seasonally.

'If a recipe has an out-of-season ingredient, don't disregard it completely, but see if you can modify it, omit it, or replace it with something else,' she explained.

Ms Dias writes up her weekly menus on a whiteboard to stay organised for the week.

Some of her favourite cheap and easy family meals include pulled pork, roast vegetable and cous cous salad, and bacon and egg muffins.

How to make pork loin with satay and rice: $9.30 total for three and two serves of rice for the babies INGREDIENTS: 3 pork loin steaks: $4.94

1 cup basmati rice: $0.50

1 Lebanese cucumber: $0.94

1/4 capsicum: $0.60

1 onion: $0.45

1 sachet Maggi satay chicken: $1.75

1 carrot: $0.12

coriander from our garden

pantry staples: olive oil, peanut butter, chicken stock cube, Bigg Seasoning Coconut and Satay seasoning METHOD: 1. Cook rice as per packet instructions (I use absorption method) with a stock cube added to the water 2. In a fry pan, medium heat with a splash of olive oil, cook pork loin steaks, seasoning with a little salt on each side. When cooked through, allow to rest on plate. 3. In a measuring jug, place 2 tbsp of peanut butter, 3/4 cup boiling water, and Maggi seasoning. Stir until peanut butter has melted. 4. In a medium pan, drizzle some olive oil and cook diced onion and diced capsicum until soft. Then add liquid mixture and turn to low heat. Let simmer until thickens. 5. To plate, divide rice between plates, top with sliced pork loin, and sauce mix. Place sliced cucumber, and grated carrot on the side. 6. Garnish with coriander, and coconut and satay seasoning. Advertisement
Aussie travellers venturing north to escape the winter chill are flocking to a pristine beach on a tropical island with sparkling turquoise waters.

Nudey Beach is a rainforest-lined hidden gem with pristine sands on Fitzroy Island, 29km off the shore of Cairns.

The dreamy beach was named best in the country in 2018 by travel researcher Brad Farmers with Tourism Australia and remains a favourite among travellers for its warm tropical water and secluded location.

Aussies looking to escape the winter chill have been venturing north to Nudey Beach, an island paradise with turquoise waters and pristine white-coral sands lined with lush rainforest

Nudey Beach is a rainforest-lined hidden gem with pristine sands on Fitzroy Island, 29km off the shore of Cairns

Nudey Beach's vibrant blue water, white-coral sands, natural rock boulders and lush coastal bushland provide a stunning backdrop for all the best holiday snaps

Nudey Beach's vibrant blue water, white-coral sands, natural rock boulders and lush coastal bushland provide a stunning backdrop for all the best holiday snaps.

To get to the spectacular hidden paradise, punters can jump on a ferry from Cairns which takes about 45-minutes and runs three times daily.

The ferry docks at Welcome Bay by the Fitzroy Island Resort where adventurers can journey south along Nudey Beach Walking Track through the tropical rainforest for about 15 minutes.

With temperatures dipping to only the balmy mid-twenties even in the peak of winter, the magnificent tropical beach is a perfect destination all year-round.

The dreamy beach was named best in the country in 2018 by travel researcher Brad Farmers with Tourism Australia and remains a favourite among travellers

With temperatures dipping to only the balmy mid-twenties even in the peak of winter, the magnificent tropical beach is a perfect destination all year-round

Fitzroy Island has been long-known as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef so Nudey Beach is a top spot for keen snorkellers to explore its waters that are teaming with incredible marine life

Along the winding track, hikers may be able to catch a glimpse of the island's resident wildlife including goannas, sea eagles, bats, cockatoos and monitors.

Fitzroy Island has been long-known as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef so Nudey Beach is a top spot for keen snorkellers to explore its waters that are teaming with incredible marine life.

Despite its name, visitors should keep their kit on while sun bathing, exploring or taking a dip at the beach and was dubbed 'Nudey' because it used to be a popular but unofficial nudist destination.
The NHS has been accused of trying to erase women after MailOnline revealed the terms 'women' and 'girls' had been omitted from guidance about periods.

A website funded by the Welsh Government to give advice about menstruation refers to them as 'people who bleed' and 'half of the population'.

Medics and campaigners described the language as 'infuriating' and 'confusing', warning it would complicate health messaging for vulnerable girls.

Feminist author Milli Hill told MailOnline it was a 'part of a broader de-sexing of language of the NHS,' adding the aim appeared to be to erase biological females.

It comes after MailOnline exposed a string of examples of NHS advice being 'de-sexed' in favour of gender-neutral language.

This website revealed how terms like 'women' had been scrubbed from pages on the menopause and womb cancer, and 'breastfeeding' replaced with 'chest-feeding'.

The guidance on periods has been published by Bloody Brilliant, an online resource commissioned by the devolved Labour Government and NHS Wales.

It was set up in 2021 with the aim of 'breaking the taboo around periods by encouraging conversation on one of the most normal, natural topics'.

Bloody Brilliant, an NHS commissioned website designed to provide information about periods and bust stigma surrounding menstruation, has been slammed for refusing to mention 'women' and 'girls', instead referring to 'people who bleeds'

The website authors say they want to 'empower everyone that bleeds' and that people shouldn't feel embarrassed about something that 'half the population' has

Here are some examples of the woke language changes that have engulfed NHS communications. Some of these examples have been taken from national NHS communications while others are used by individual hospitals

The period is part of the menstrual cycle, a series of changes in hormone production and structure of the ovaries and uterus, that make pregnancy possible.

If a pregnancy doesn't occur during the cycle, part of the lining of the uterus is shed from the body via the vagina, becoming a period.

Menstruation is a process unique to biological females and a man cannot have one, even if they transition to become a woman later in life.

How NHS language is going woke MailOnline has uncovered a string of gender neutral language changes to NHS resources for women's health. Menopause The old version of the NHS website said menopause is 'when a woman stops having periods and is no longer able to get pregnant naturally'. The new gender neutral version says: Menopause is when your periods stop due to lower hormone levels'. Female cancers NHS advice pages about ovarian, womb, vaginal and cervix cancers quietly scrubbed the word 'women' from their webpages. For example, the original version of the ovarian NHS cancer page featured the line: 'Ovarian cancer, or cancer of the ovaries, is one of the most common types of cancer in women.' This was removed with the page now saying: 'Anyone with ovaries can get ovarian cancer, but it mostly affects those over 50.' Chestfeeding Advice for trans parents failed to mention the word 'breast'. A page titled 'chestfeeding if you're trans or non-binary' makes no mention of breasts and refers to breast reduction operations as 'top surgery'. The guidance also encouraged people to keep taking hormone transitioning drugs when they 'chestfeed', despite admitting 'it is unclear what effect this could have on your baby'. Advertisement

Bloody Brilliant was set up in August last year by the NHS Wales and the Welsh Government, costing the taxpayer 84,000.

It was outsourced to English creative marketing Social Change UK. The non-for-profit site describes its role as helping to inform and demystify periods.

'We are Bloody Brilliant a source of knowledge, support, information and empowerment for young people who bleed across Wales,' the website reads

'Our aim is to break the taboo around periods by encouraging conversation on one of the most normal, natural topics that half the worlds population experience.'

The website consists of half a dozen period related topics, including the science behind menstruation, advice about using period products such as tampons, and how to support those going through the process.

But it fails to mention women or girls once in its guidance, instead being described as 'anyone with a uterus'.

In its description of puberty, the terms are omitted in favour of 'child'.

'When a childs body begins to develop including growing pubic hair, boobs starting to develop, growing taller and starting your period,' the website reads.

In a section about ending period stigma, the website ironically says: 'No more hiding, covering up or awkward euphemisms, we need some straight-talking.'

Dr Karleen Gribble, a nursing and midwifery expert from Western Sydney University in Australia, told MailOnline the confusing language was 'unhelpful'.

'It seems like we have gone from menstruation being unmentionable, contributing to much distress and difficulty for many young girls around their period, to the fact that it is girls and women who have periods being unmentionable,' she said.

'Neither of these things are good.'

She said the lack of clarity about who actually goes through menstruation could confuse both girls and the wider public.

'It's entirely possible that this lack of clarity about just who it is who gets periods could be confusing for many young girls,' she said.

Transwomen, a male who turns female, cannot go through menstruation as they do not have the ovaries or uterus to produce the tissue that becomes the period.

On the other hand, transmen, those who transition from female to male, can have periods, though many find they stop when they take testosterone as part of their treatment.

One example of gender neutral language is referring to female puberty as a process that happens to a 'child' rather than a girl

Biology DOES matter... when it comes to cancer risk Men notoriously drink and smoke more than women  but that is not the reason they have a higher cancer risk. A major study suggests biological differences are the real reason behind the disparity between sexes. Understanding these differences could help to improve prevention and treatment, researchers say. The study looked at 300,000 middle-aged and older Americans who did not have cancer over 15 years. Men were more than twice as likely to develop the disease compared to women  even when lifestyle factors were ruled out. 'This suggests that there are intrinsic biological differences between men and women that affect susceptibility to cancer,' said lead researcher Dr Sarah Jackson, an epidemiologist at the National Cancer Institute. Researchers suggested differences in genes, hormones and the immune system all play a role. Some 182,000 women are diagnosed with cancer in the UK every year, rising to 193,000 among men. In the US, 970,000 men and 928,000 women have cancer confirmed annually. Researchers from the NCI examined the rates of 21 types of cancers in 171,274 men and 122,826 women. Participants were aged 50 to 71 and their records were monitored between 1995 and 2011. The findings, published in the journal CANCER, show 17,951 cancers were detected among men, while just 8,742 were diagnosed among women. Rates of thyroid and gallbladder cancer were higher among women, but the prevalence of all other cancers was higher among men. They did not look at cancers that are sex-specific - like womb cancer or prostate cancer. Men were 11-times more likely to develop oesophageal cancer and four times more at risk of stomach or throat cancer. They also had a three times greater chance of being diagnosed with bladder cancer. Further analysis found men were still more likely to develop cancer overall when other risk factors like smoking, alcohol intake and exposure to carcinogens were accounted for. Advertisement

Dr Gribble said it would be more helpful if the website had a dedicated section for gender dysphoria sufferers rather than erasing women and girls from generic information about periods.

'I think that for young female people who are transgender and don't like to be referred to as girls or women that it would be entirely appropriate to have targeted communications,' she said.

'Some of them will also have specific medical needs as a result of taking puberty blockers or testosterone which they will need information on.'

Ms Hill told MailOnline Bloody Brilliant was both an example of inclusivity gone mad and another sign of the 'troubling' erasure of women.

'Its absolutely infuriating to me. I do understand the need for inclusivity but this is not inclusivity,' she said.

'Its leaving out the very people they are supposed to have at the centre of their work  women and girls.'

Asked by MailOnline if it was a part of a broader attempt to erase women from the NHS, she said yes

Ms Hill, who has written a guide on puberty for girls called 'My Period', added it was ridiculous for the website to talk about reducing stigma and challenging taboos while erasing girls and women from the topic of menstruation.

'Ironic when you think of how people didnt used to be able to say the word "period" or name the parts of womens bodies  and just as we were starting to make some headway with challenging that, here we are with this new taboo,' she said.

'Imagine how much effort it must have taken to create an entire website about periods without mentioning the word woman or girl once.'

Ms Hill said the guidance would harm the neediest children searching for information about their bodies online.

'It is certainly confusing to be described as a "person who bleeds across Wales" in particular if you are young, have low literacy, or English as a second language,' she said.

'It is also playing along with an ideology that I think people are coming to realise is actually harming children  by reinforcing the idea that there is no such thing as biological sex.

'I know this website does not overtly state that, but it is still very much entrenched in gender ideology.'

Earlier this year, MailOnline exposed how the terms 'women' and 'woman' were being quietly removed from NHS online advice for female cancers and the menopause.

Terms like 'breastfeeding' were also replaced with 'chest-feeding' and other gender-neutral language.

These changes still haven't been reversed, despite a promise to strip out gender-neutral phrases a month ago by ex-Health Secretary Sajid Javid.

Dr Gribble said there needed to be more information who was making these decisions, and why.

'What testing did they do on how desexing this public health communication impacted understanding?' she said.

NHS Wales Health Collaborative, the part of the health service that commissions external agencies to produce online resources, said the language on the website is 'consistent with similar materials, including Welsh Government publications, and following expert advice and consultation with young people in Wales.'

From 'chestfeeding' to 'human milk' and 'birthing PARENTS': How NHS language is going woke - with women quietly being scrubbed out of 'inclusive' advice pages

'Chestfeeding' instead of breastfeeding and asking men if they are pregnant before getting a scan are just two ways NHS language has gone woke recently.

NHS chiefs have repeatedly defended the changes, saying they want to be 'inclusive, respectful and relevant'.

But health experts have warned de-gendering medical advice could be dangerous as it over-complicates and obscures vital health messaging.

Here, we detail some of the ways the woke language storm has engulfed the health service.

NHS removes the word 'women' from its MENOPAUSE page

MailOnline revealed the NHS's online guidance about the menopause had the terms 'women' and 'woman' removed.

The webpage used to describe the condition as 'when a woman stops having periods and is no longer able to get pregnant naturally'.

But a new, gender-neutral description made in May, says: 'Menopause is when your periods stop due to lower hormone levels'.

The old advice also highlighted menopause usually occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55, but about one in 100 women experience it before 40.

But none of this information is included in the overview section of the updated webpage.

In total six mentions of 'women' and 'woman' have been scrubbed from the page.

Justifying the change, NHS Digital said they wanted language to be 'inclusive and respectful'.

Experts warned that de-sexing the menopause page meant women with low English or health literacy could miss out and not read further.

The NHS has quietly omitted the terms 'women' and 'woman' from its webpage on menopause. Pictured here is the older version of the menopause overview page (May 16) which mentioned women six times

But the new version omits women from the overview entirely. Experts have warned women could be disadvantaged by de-gendered medical advice confusing health messaging

NHS midwives told that sex is 'ASSIGNED' at birth

Midwives denounced claims they 'assign' the sex of children at birth in a row on woke language.

The wording came from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in an 'inclusivity' statement.

Their document said: 'We recognise maternity and gynaecological services will be accessed by women, gender diverse individuals and people whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth.'

But some midwives hit back at the colleges, arguing that they merely 'observe' the reality of a baby's sex at birth  as opposed to deciding it themselves.

Jo Gould, a midwife in Sussex, said she was 'ashamed' of her representative body and that the statement was 'nonsense' and 'offensive'.

But the RCM said the phrase sex assigned at birth was used correctly arguing it is the UK governments Office for National Statistics legal terminology for the sex observed at birth and then recorded on the birth certificate.

A statement on inclusivity from the Royal College of Midwives and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has provoked outrage from some midwives on social media for using the term 'sex assigned at birth'

NHS pregnancy advice refers to 'chestfeeding' and refuses to mention breasts

The NHS was criticised over 'ideological' new advice for trans parents that failed to mention the word 'breast'.

A page titled 'chestfeeding if you're trans or non-binary' makes no mention of breasts and refers to breast reduction operations as 'top surgery'.

It was also accused of 'normalising' a potentially dangerous chest-binding technique.

The guidance also encourages people to keep taking hormone transitioning drugs when they 'chestfeed', despite admitting 'it is unclear what effect this could have on your baby'.

The advice was written a year prior to publication but was only issued online after nearly 12 months of internal NHS wrangling.

It provoked concern among nurses and maternity experts, who said the advice fails to warn people about health risks of such practices to both parents and babies.

The term chestfeeding is used throughout the page with the term 'breast' omitted. Breastmilk likewise has been replaced with 'milk from the chest'

The page also says testosterone can pass through breast milk to babies but adds it is 'unclear' what affect passing the hormone on to a baby could have

Critics of the page have said it normalises a potentially dangerous 'binding' technique used to make breasts smaller using fabric and which can cause a variety of health problems

NHS bosses removed term 'WOMEN' on ovarian and womb cancer advice pages

Official NHS advice pages about ovarian, womb, vaginal and cervix cancers were found to have quietly scrubbed the word 'women' from their webpages earlier this year.

The term was missing from the landing pages of three sections explaining the cancers, which are only found in biological women.

For example, the original version of the ovarian NHS cancer page featured the line: 'Ovarian cancer, or cancer of the ovaries, is one of the most common types of cancer in women.'

Another line read: 'Ovarian cancer mainly affects women who have been through the menopause (usually over the age of 50), but it can sometimes affect younger women.'

However, in an update sneaked out in January  these were removed with the page now saying: 'Anyone with ovaries can get ovarian cancer, but it mostly affects those over 50.'

The changes were made late in 2021 and early 2022 but only came to light in May.

The old version of the NHS ovarian cancer page as of December 30 2021 (left) mentions women specifically twice, whereas the new version (right) omits them

NHS reinstates the word women in its miscarriage advice

In June, the health service added the word 'women' back to its miscarriage page following backlash.

The health service replaced 'women who know they're pregnant' with 'people who know they are pregnant'.

Another line on the page was also criticised for saying miscarriage 'only affects about one in 100 people' instead of women.

Despite amending one of the sentences to state that having three consecutive miscarriages 'only affects about one in 100 women', other pages in the NHS guidance make no mention of women at all.

A section called 'aftermath' refers to 'people' seven times but not once to women, including in its sub-paragraph about the emotional impact of a miscarriage.

Another section titled 'causes' does mention women several times when attributing their age as a factor on their pregnancy, with one in ten expectant women under 30 having a miscarriage compared to five in ten over 45.

NHS Digital has now partially amended the webpage to include the word 'women' once at the end

NHS-backed guidance states transwomen can breastfeed

Experts warned newborn babies could be harmed by woke NHS-backed guidance stating biologically born men can breastfeed.

Guidance from the La Leche's charity  linked to on the NHS's controversial 'chestfeeding' advice page  states biological men who swap sex can stimulate milk supply using the Newman-Goldfarb protocol.

But the procedure, which involves taking a powerful drug called domperidone, has been mired in controversy and is effectively banned in the US because of its side effects.

NHS bosses only recommend it to women struggling to produce milk in some cases because domperidone carries a risk of giving a baby an irregular heartbeat.

Experts told MailOnline how scientists have 'no idea about the implications', of breastfeeding in men and that the NHS should focus on improving access to breastfeeding rates for women.

An NHS England spokesperson said the link to La Leche's advice on the chestfeeding guidance page was to an 'independent, non-profit support site' and added does not reflect NHS policy.

Hospitals asking men if they are pregnant before scans

In March, it was revealed that men were being asked if they are or could be pregnant before given radiotherapy by some NHS trusts.

Male cancer patients, as well as those having X-rays and MRI scans, were asked if they were expecting a baby, because the word 'female' was replaced by 'individuals' for medical procedures.

For example, the Walton Centre NHS in Liverpool now asks 'all patients under the age of 60, regardless of how you may identify your gender' whether they could be having a baby.

The dangers that radiotherapy, diagnostic imaging and nuclear medicine pose to an unborn child mean medics must find out if biologically female patients are pregnant before carrying out the procedures.

But campaigners warned the move could spark the beginning of a 'clinically dangerous' move to record only gender, and not sex, on medical records.

Patients and their families have also complained of 'unnecessary confusion and agitation' for vulnerable patients.

Student midwives being taught how to help biological MEN give birth

In May this year, it was revealed that midwifery students at Edinburgh Napier University were being taught biological men could get pregnant and trans men could give birth even if they have a penis.

In a coursebook that has since been revised, trainee midwives were given detailed instructions on how to treat a male-to-female trans person during childbirth.

The book's introduction stated: 'You may be caring for a pregnant or birthing person who is transitioning from male to female and may still have external male genitalia.'

Another section with photo demonstrations detailed how to fit a catheter in a person with a penis and scrotum during labour.

The book also included special instructions for people with prostate glands  which are exclusive to biological men  who may feel particular 'discomfort'.

Several experts criticised the university, describing the woke material as 'remarkably ignorant about basic biology, sex and anatomy'.

Bosses at the university have now changed the wording to say, 'people transitioning from female to male' rather than 'male to female', following the uproar.

NHS told to use inclusive birth terms to avoid offending transgender people

NHS services were told to use 'inclusive' terms like 'chestfeeding' so trans pregnant people aren't offended by a Government-funded report published in April.

Produced by charity the LGBT Foundation other suggestions of language change was avoiding terms like 'vaginal birth', recommending 'frontal' or 'lower birth' instead.

The charity also says some trans and non-binary people would benefit from having a private space in hospitals to give birth, so that they are not made uncomfortable by seeing women.

It detailed the experience of one trans person, who said: 'I didnt have to go to a ward full of women after giving birth, I was actually provided with a private room for me and baby which was very helpful and accommodating for me and my gender identity.'

The report was based on a survey 121 trans Britons on their experience of pregnancy.

It was commissioned by the Health & Wellbeing Alliance, a partnership between charities and the NHS, which is managed jointly by the Department of Health and Social Care and Office for Health Improvement and Disparities.

NHS hospital tells staff to say 'birthing parents' and 'human milk'

In February last year Brighton and Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust unveiled 'gender inclusive' phrases it wanted its staff to use.

These included terms like 'birthing parents' and 'human milk' rather than 'mothers' and 'breast milk' to avoid offending transgender people.

The Trust said using 'gender inclusive' phrases was part of a drive to stamp out 'mainstream transphobia'.

Other changes include replacing the use of the word 'woman' with the phrase 'woman or person', and the term 'father' with 'parent', 'co-parent' or 'second biological parent', depending on the circumstances.

The new terms will be used for documents, protocols and Trust-wide communication.

The move was welcomed by inclusivity campaigners at the time, with the group TransActual tweeted: 'This is fantastic, well done. Let's hope many more trusts follow suit. Everybody deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.'
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Patients in England are set to face longer waits for routine check-ups as NHS bosses order hospitals to see those who are yet to have their first appointment, in a fresh bid to hack down backlogs.

The plan, dubbed 'Super September' by health chiefs, will see those who have been in the queue the longest prioritised for appointments over those who are waiting for routine second consultations.

Medics have previously called the check-ups, which account for two-thirds of all appointments in the NHS each month, a waste of time and called for patients to only be seen again if there are concerns.

It comes as NHS England today claimed it had 'virtually eliminated' all patients from the waiting list who had been queuing for two years or more for scans, checks and surgical procedures.

More than 24,000 24-month waiters were in the queue in January but the figure now stands at around 2,800. However, the health service said the vast majority of these opted to defer treatment or are 'very complex cases'.

In its recovery plan published earlier this year, the Government promised 'no-one' in England would be waiting more than two years by July.

Hospitals are now being told to treat those who have been waiting for 18 months or more, with an April 2023 deadline to eliminate these waiters entirely.

It comes after Health Secretary Steve Barclay yesterday warned that ministers face a 'real sprint' to prepare the NHS for the months ahead, warning of a tripe threat from Covid, flu and deteriorating health due to soaring prices.

He promised to relax recruitment rules and launch a hiring blitz to get the health service ready for the cold months, including appointing thousands more medics from India, Sri Lanka and the Philippines.

The NHS backlog for routine treatment grew from 6.4million to 6.6million in May, the latest month with data, meaning one in eight people in England are now waiting for elective care, often in pain

Heart attack patients waited more than 50 minutes for an ambulance on average in England last month  nearly triple the NHS target. There were more than 300,000 category two callouts in June

Some 22,034 people had to wait more than 12 hours in A&E departments in England in June from a decision to admit to actually being admitted, NHS England said. The figure is up from 19,053 the previous month, but still below a record of 24,138 in April, which was the highest for any calendar month in records going back to August 2010. The number waiting at least four hours from the decision to admit to admission stood at 130,109 in June, up from 122,768 the previous month. A total of 72% of patients in England were seen within four hours at A&Es last month, down from 73% in May

A briefing note from NHS England to regional leaders, seen by the trade publication The Health Service Journal, states that Super September will aim to 'accelerate current recovery indicatives'.

It will run for two weeks from September 26 and see hospitals 'adapt routine follow up arrangements'.

The letter states: 'The released capacity will allow increased focus on patients who are the longest waiters who have not yet been seen.

'We expect participating providers will choose to focus on clinical validation, outpatient first appointments and/or use the time to trial other innovative ideas they have that might have an impact on their elective recovery effort.'

It added that there is a 'pressing need' to change how hospitals deliver outpatient services  appointments that take place without being admitted to hospital, such as scans, minor surgery and routine physicals.

WHAT WAS IN THE RECOVERY PLAN? END TWO YEAR WAITS BY JULY 2022

END 18-MONTH WAITS BY APRIL 2023

END 65-WEEK WAITS BY MARCH 2024

END ONE YEAR WAITS BY MARCH 2025

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ELECTIVE CARE WAITING LISTS TO COME DOWN FROM MARCH 2024

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The letter calls on hospitals to use staff in a 'smarter and productive way' do deliver these appointments and free-up capacity for patients who have been waiting the longest and have not yet been seen.

NHS bosses also ordered medics to check whether these appointments are necessary.

Robert Ede, head of health and social care at think tank the Policy Exchange, told The Telegraph the NHS approach was 'sensible' as outpatient care is 'ripe for change'.

But he warned that those with 'sharp elbows' could be more likely to get the help they needed.

Latest data shows there are a record 6.6million people in England waiting for routine hospital appointments. The figure spiralled 56 per cent from 4.2million in March 2020.

The queue soared out of control as hospitals focused on treating the influx of Covid patients, dealt with record staff absences and helped with the vaccine rollout.

NHS forecasting from February shows that the problem will get worse before it gets better. The figure is expected to peak at 10.7million in March 2024  at which point one in five people in England would be in the queue.

Meanwhile, the number of patients waiting more than two years soared from 2,600 in April 2021  when the figures were first recorded  to 24,000 by January 2022.

NHS England today confirmed 2,777 have still been waiting for more than two years.

The health service said 1,579 patients 'opted to defer treatment' because they declined an offer of an earlier appointment at a different hospital.

And 1,030 two-year waiters are 'very complex cases' which would be unsafe to move to another hospital, such as spinal surgery that needs to take place at a specialist centre, it said.

This leaves 168 patients waiting more than two years, the vast majority of whom live in the South West, which has been worst hit by Covid absences and NHS pressures.

The recovery plan contained a footnote, setting out that some patients 'will choose to wait longer' and a 'very small number of specific highly specialised areas may need tailored plans to tackle the backlog'.

However, the one-year waiting list is swelling. Around 3,000 people in England were forced to wait one year for treatment by March 2020. But the figure hit 331,600 in May 2022  the latest date figures are available for.

The NHS said it is 'working hard' to ensure the remaining patients who have not yet been treated are seen as quickly as possible.

Amanda Pritchard, NHS England's chief executive, said the health service has 'continued to reform the way we deliver care' and has used 'innovative techniques' 'pioneering technology' and allowing patients to go to other hospitals to be seen quicker.

She said the health service will focus on treating patients who have been waiting longer than 18 months as the next phase of its Covid recovery plan.

However, Dr Robert Stone, director of elective recovery at NHS England, has warned that this target will also likely be missed.

He told the HSJ there is a 'huge cohort' of more than 1million patients who will soon tip into the 18-month category unless they were treated soon.
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Fascinating timelapse maps show how the birthrate in England and Wales has plummeted over the last decade, despite a small rise last year caused by an uptick in older mothers.

Based on the latest Office for National Statistics data, they reveal how the fertility rate was 1.61 children per woman in 2021, slightly higher than the 1.58 in 2020.

The slight increase in births last year was driven mainly by a jump in women in their early 30s having children, who had a rate of 1.07, up from 1.03 the year before.

The sharpest increase was seen in women aged 35 to 39 (5 per cent). For comparison, women aged 20 and under saw a fall of 16 per cent.

Experts believe the increase in older women giving birth is because they are leaving it until later in life to have children to pursue careers, as well as advances in IVF and other fertility treatments.

Despite projections of a baby boom during the first year of the pandemic as couples were forced to spend more time together indoors, the birthrate sank to its lowest level.

Families were thought to have been put off due to fears about the impact of the virus on the economy and their ability to access medical facilities while pregnant.

Despite the slight year-on-year rise, the birthrate for 2021 'remains in line' with the long-term trend of falling births since before the Covid pandemic, statisticians said.

For comparison, it stood at 1.94 in 2012, and peaked at 2.93 in 1964 at the tail end of the Baby Boomers generation.

The long-term decline has been attributed to an ageing population alongside women leaving having children until later in life.

Global health scientists and tech mogul Elon Musk have sounded the alarm about an 'underpopulation crisis' across the world, with falling birth rates occurring in most countries in the West as well as Japan.

They fear society will end up with 'more grandparents than grandchildren', with too few people in the workplace to support the elderly.

Enter your town or borough in the module below to see how its birth rate has changed over the last 10 years:

Fascinating timelapse maps today showed how England and Wales's birthrates have plummeted over the last decade. Maps show: Birth rates in local authorities across England and Wales from 2012 to 2021. Key: More than two births (dark blue), 1.8 to two births (blue), 1.6 to 1.8 births (green) and less than 1.6 births (light green)

The number of births per woman hit an all-time low in the first year of the pandemic, with birthrates falling at pace since 2012, when around 730,000 children were born

The slight increase in births last year was driven mainly by women in their 30s, with women aged 35 to 39 (light green) seeing the sharpest increase at around 5 per cent. Women aged 20 and under saw a fall of 16 per cent

Today's Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures also showed the number of stillbirths increased 9 per cent to around 2,600 last year

Uptick in births last year driven by women in their 30s Britain's slight uptick in births last year was driven by women in their 30s, statisticians revealed today. Office for National Statistics (ONS) data showed there were 624,828 live births registered in England and Wales in 2021, up 1.8 per cent from 2020. Some 30,542 babies were born to women in their over-40s last year, compared to 13,738 in under-20s. Across age groups, the fertility rate was 1.61 children per woman in 2021, slightly higher than the 1.58 in 2020. Within the overall increase in fertility, rates fell among younger groups and rose in older women. The largest decrease was among women and girls under 20 years old (16 per cent), while women aged 35 to 39 saw fertility rates increase by 5 per cent. Women in their early 30s had the highest rate with 1.07, up from 1.03 the year before. Advertisement

Latest figures show England and Wales's total fertility rate increased for the first time it has risen since 2012, although it is still lower than every other year on record.

This is the average number of children a woman would would have if fertility rates in 2021 were applied throughout their life.

The ONS figures are based on birth registrations, and delays mean some births in 2021 may not be covered.

It follows provisional data, based on NHS births notifications data, published by the ONS in March.

Within the overall increase in fertility, rates fell among younger groups and rose in older women.

Fertility rates increased across all regions of England in 2021, except for London and the West Midlands.

The number of older mothers has soared in recent decades, as more women concentrate on their career and start families later.

But doctors tend to warn women not to leave it too late to have children. They stress that with age fertility drops and their risk of complications, including stillbirths, increases.

Experts estimate women in their late forties have as little as a one in 20 chance of becoming pregnant because of their lower supply of eggs, which are less capable of being fertilised.

The British Fertility Society previously warned celebrities who have children in their 40s are giving women false hope about late motherhood.

Demand for donor eggs, one of the most common methods for older women to have a baby, have soared in recent years.

Other options include IVF, if the woman still has some of her own eggs, or even intrauterine insemination - when sperm is directly placed into the uterus using a catheter. Fertility drugs and surgery are two other possibilities.

Today's ONS figures also show there were 2,597 stillbirths in 2021, an increase of 226 from 2020.

Of the total number of live births in 2021, 445,055 were to UK-born women, 179,726 were to non-UK-born women, and in 47 births the country of the mother was not stated.

The percentage of live births to non-UK-born women decreased to 28.8 per cent in 2021 from 29.3 per cent in 2020.

What are some of the risks of having a baby later in life? The number of older mothers has soared in recent decades, as more women concentrate on their career and start families later. But doctors tend to warn women not to leave it too late to have children. They stress that with age fertility drops and their risk of complications, including stillbirths, increases. Experts estimate women in their late forties have as little as a one in 20 chance of becoming pregnant because of their lower supply of eggs, which are less capable of being fertilised. The British Fertility Society previously warned celebrities who have children in their 40s are giving women false hope about late motherhood. Chairman Adam Balen said celebrities who paraded miracle babies will often have used IVF or donor eggs, both of which can cost thousands of pounds. Because they do not make this public, their fans fail to realise the fertility issues and health problems that may result. Demand for donor eggs, one of the most common methods for older women to have a baby, have soared in recent years. Other options include IVF, if the woman still has some of her own eggs, or even intrauterine insemination - when sperm is directly placed into the uterus using a catheter. Fertility drugs and surgery are two other possibilities. Advertisement

This was similar to the percentage in 2019 and the result of a higher number of UK-born women giving birth.

Romania became the most common country of birth for non-UK-born mothers in 2021, while Pakistan remained the most common country of birth for non-UK-born fathers.

A report by the United Nations last month revealed the world's population will hit 8billion by November, fuelled by rapid growth in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia.

But birth rates in developed nations have been plummeting for years, which has dragged down the overall rate. The average women had two-and-a-half children by 2020, compared to five 50 years ago.

Rates are even lower in the UK (1.74) and US (1.77). Higher levels of education and contraception and more women entering the workplace are thought to be behind the concerning trends.

The 'underpopulation crisis', as it has been dubbed in corners of the scientific community, could see too few younger people to work, pay tax and look after the elderly.

The world's richest man Mr Musk, one of the founders of PayPal, has been warning of population decline for years.

In 2017, he said that the number of people on Earth is 'accelerating towards collapse but few seem to notice or care'.

Last year he warned that civilisation is 'going to crumble' if people don't have more children.

And Musk last month described himself as 'always banging the baby drum', warning that once the birth rate starts to fall 'it accelerates'.

He has pointed to a downturn in Japan's population as evidence for his concerns, claiming the nation would 'flat-out disappear' if the worrying trend continues. And Musk warned Italy 'will have no people' if its low birth rate continues.

An often-cited Lancet study claimed that dozens of countries  including Japan, Spain and Portugal  are set to see their population half by 2100. Washington University academics, behind the calculations, warned that nations should ready themselves to adapt to the changing population structures.

In a conversation with Tesla Owners Silicon Valley last month, Musk said: 'A lot of people are under the impression that the current number of humans is unsustainable on the planet.

'That is totally untrue. The population density is actually quite low.'
The U.S. logged a record 1,424 monkeypox cases on Monday, the highest total since the global outbreak first found its way stateside in May. It comes as officials are starting to raise concerns about the virus running rampant on college campuses during the upcoming semester.

Monday's figures bring America's overall case total to 8,934 - putting the U.S. on track to be the first nation to eclipse 9,000 confirmed infection when officials report new figures Tuesday. It is likely that these figures are a severe undercount because of the lack of testing.

This outbreak could soon get worse as well. The new school year is set to begin at colleges and universities across the U.S. in the coming weeks. Young students are more likely to engage in careless sexual behavior, creating a perfect storm for potential monkeypox outbreaks around the nation.

Unlike Covid in 2020, many universities also do not have dedicated response plans to the virus either - making rampant spread even more likely once the virus is brought onto campus.

'As we head into the fall, I'm concerned about outbreaks on college campuses as they are often a place where individuals engage in higher risk sexual activity and are in close contact with many different people,' Dr Rachel Cox, an assistant professor in at the Mass General Health Institute of Health Professionals, told CNN.

'We need to make sure we're prepared to allocate resources like tests, vaccines, and antivirals to places that may become hotspots.'

Not all experts believe the outbreak will absolutely spiral out of control, though.

Dr Scott Gottlieb, former head of the Food and Drug Administration and current board member at pharma-giant Pfizer, told CBS' Face the Nation on Sunday that while difficult, it is possible to prevent monkeypox from becoming an endemic virus - a prospect officials likely failed with Covid.

Former FDA Chief Dr Scott Gottlieb (pictured) told CBS' Face the Nation that America's monkeypox outbreak can still be controlled

He says that the response to the virus has to be wider to control it, though. At the moment, testing has mainly been reserved to just gay and bisexual men - who make up a overwhelming majority of cases. Gottlieb believes that more cases would be found if testing was expanded beyond just that community.

Theres a potential to get this back in the box but its going to be very difficult at this point,' Gottlieb said.

'Were continuing to look for cases in the community of men who have sex with men, its primarily spreading in that community, but there's no question it has spread outside that community at this point and I think we need to start looking for cases more broadly.

While exact federal data is not available, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr Rochelle Walensky said during a briefing last week that they still make up a majority of cases.

America is facing a shortage of both testing and vaccines at the moment, though, meaning that they have been reserved for men who have sex with other men to this point.

The CDC has greatly expanded its testing capacity in recent weeks, now being able to perform 80,000 per week across its own testing and agreements set up with private partners.

Last week Walensky said that only around ten percent of America's testing capacity was being used, opening the door for significant expansions in the amount of people that should be tested.

Gottlieb said that any person with an atypical case of either shingles or herpes should be tested for monkeypox at this point.

Expanding testing will either find more cases - giving officials more information they can use to control the outbreak - or will confirm more people as negative and confirm areas where the virus is not spreading.

He also believes the CDC should begin wastewater surveillance - which can give more general pictures of where the virus is spreading without individual testing.

Despite his concerns, Gottlieb does not think the virus has reached a point where the average American should be worried.

I dont think this is something people need to be generally worried about,' he explained.

'I think the incidence of this infection in the broader community is still very low. Your risk of coming into contact with monkeypox is still exceedingly low outside of certain social networks where you see a higher case rate.

'If you want to contain it we need to start looking more widely for it.
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More babies were born outside of marriage in England and Wales last year than to wedded couples for the first time on record, official figures show.

The latest Office for National Statistics data shows around 625,000 live births were logged in the two nations in 2021. But 321,000 of these were outside of marriage or a civil partnership, while 304,000 were within one.

It means just 48.7 per cent of newborns were to a legal couple, falling below the 50 per cent threshold for the first time since records began in 1845. The rate has been trending downwards for the last century.

Meanwhile, the figures also reveal that twice as many women aged 40 and over became mothers last year compared to teenagers, with 30,542 and 13,738 births logged, respectively, marking the biggest gap ever seen.

The changing face of British families comes against the backdrop of declining fertility rates that dates back decades and has been linked to women choosing to pursue careers over starting a family in their twenties.

Meanwhile, fascinating timelapse maps show how the birthrate in England and Wales has plummeted over the last decade. The fertility rate was 1.61 children per woman in 2021, the second lowest on record and only slightly higher than the 1.58 in 2020.

The slight increase in births last year was driven mainly by a jump in women in their early 30s having children, who had a rate of 1.07, up from 1.03 the year before.

Experts believe the increase in older women giving birth is because they are leaving it until later in life to have children to pursue careers, as well as advances in IVF and other fertility treatments.

Despite projections of a baby boom during the first year of the pandemic as couples were forced to spend more time together indoors, the birthrate sank to its lowest level.

Families were thought to have been put off due to fears about the impact of the virus on the economy and their ability to access medical facilities while pregnant.

More babies were born outside of marriage in England and Wales last year than to wedded couples for the first time on record, official figures show. The latest Office for National Statistics data shows around 625,000 live births were logged in the two nations in 2021. But 321,000 of these were outside of marriage or a civil partnership, while 304,000 were within one

The slight increase in births last year was driven mainly by women in their 30s, with women aged 35 to 39 (light green) seeing the sharpest increase at around 5 per cent. Women aged 20 and under saw a fall of 16 per cent

Enter your town or borough in the module below to see how its birth rate has changed over the last 10 years:

Fascinating timelapse maps today showed how England and Wales's birthrates have plummeted over the last decade. Maps show: Birth rates in local authorities across England and Wales from 2012 to 2021. Key: More than two births (dark blue), 1.8 to two births (blue), 1.6 to 1.8 births (green) and less than 1.6 births (light green)

The number of births per woman hit an all-time low in the first year of the pandemic, with birthrates falling at pace since 2012, when around 730,000 children were born

Today's Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures also showed the number of stillbirths increased 9 per cent to around 2,600 last year

Latest figures show that more than half of babies are now born to parents who are not married or in a civil partnership.

The rate peaked at 96 per cent in the early 1900s, before falling to 80 per cent in 1985, 70 per cent in 1991 and 60 per cent in 2001.

Albania moves into top 10 most common countries of birth for mothers and fathers born outside the UK Albania has moved into the top 10 most common countries of birth for both mothers and fathers born outside the UK, new figures have shown. In annual birth statistics for England and Wales last year, it was shown Albania is now the tenth most common country of birth for mothers born outside the UK. The non-EU country is also now the eighth most common country of birth for fathers born outside the UK. In annual birth statistics for England and Wales last year, it was shown Albania is now the tenth most common country of birth for mothers born outside the UK It is the first time Albania has been in the top 10 most common countries for both non-UK mothers and fathers. According to fresh data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), Romania is now the most common country of birth for mothers born outside the UK. Births to mothers from Poland saw the largest decrease in 2021, with an 8.6 per cent decrease. For fathers born outside the UK, Pakistan remains the most common country of birth. For fathers born outside the UK, Pakistan remains the most common country of birth Births to fathers born in Poland had the largest decrease, falling by 10.3 per cent from 2020 to last year. The proportion of births to Polish-born fathers has been decreasing since 2015. Four in ten migrants crossing the Channel in small boats in recent weeks have come from Albania, according to a military intelligence report leaked to the Mail on Sunday. It revealed a total of 1,075 Albanians crossed the Channel in small boats during a six-week period this summer  almost 40 per cent of those identified as making the perilous crossing. Overall, the ONS data shows that last year more than one-third (34.2 per cent) of all children born in England and Wales had either one or both parents born outside the UK. This was a decrease from 34.8 per cent in 2020. Advertisement

It comes amid a trend of couples focusing on their careers and getting married and having children later in life.

Separate ONS data, published in May, shows the average age of marriage in 2019 was 34 for men and 32 for women, compared to 32 and 29 two decades earlier.

The ONS data also shows that women are now twice as likely to have a child in later life than teenagers.

Teen mothers gave birth to more babies every year than women aged 40-plus and until 2012, but the trend has been reversing ever since.

And in 2021, 13,738 newborns were to mothers aged under 20, compared to 30,542 among older women.

It is the first time on record that the gap between the age groups has been so large. Just two decades ago there were three times as many teenage mothers as those over 40.

The birth rate among women in their teens and early twenties also fell to their lowest ever levels last year, with 8.4 and 43.2 newborns per 100,000 women, respectively.

Some 119,413 babies were born to women in their twenties, while 341,680 live births were logged among women in their thirties, marking the ninth year in a row that women's thirties was the most popular decade to have children.

The number of older mothers has soared in recent decades, as more women concentrate on their career and start families later.

But doctors tend to warn women not to leave it too late to have children. They stress that with age fertility drops and their risk of complications, including stillbirths, increases.

Experts estimate women in their late forties have as little as a one in 20 chance of becoming pregnant because of their lower supply of eggs, which are less capable of being fertilised.

The British Fertility Society previously warned celebrities who have children in their 40s are giving women false hope about late motherhood.

Demand for donor eggs, one of the most common methods for older women to have a baby, have soared in recent years.

Other options include IVF, if the woman still has some of her own eggs, or even intrauterine insemination - when sperm is directly placed into the uterus using a catheter. Fertility drugs and surgery are two other possibilities.

Meanwhile, England and Wales's total fertility rate increased for the first time since 2012, although it is still lower than every other year on record.

This is the average number of children a woman would have based on current birthrates.

The ONS figures are based on birth registrations, and delays mean some births in 2021 may not be covered.

It follows provisional data, based on NHS births notifications data, published by the ONS in March.

Fertility rates increased across all regions of England in 2021, except for London and the West Midlands.

Of the total number of live births in 2021, 445,055 were to UK-born women, 179,726 were to non-UK-born women, and in 47 births the country of the mother was not stated.

The percentage of live births to non-UK-born women decreased to 28.8 per cent in 2021 from 29.3 per cent in 2020.

This was similar to the percentage in 2019 and the result of a higher number of UK-born women giving birth.

Romania became the most common country of birth for non-UK-born mothers in 2021, while Pakistan remained the most common country of birth for non-UK-born fathers.
A Lyme disease vaccine could soon hit the market in the U.S. for the first time in two decades, as pharma giant Pfizer enters late-stage clinical trials for a series of shots that prevent infection from the tick-borne illness.

The New York City-based firm is starting enrollment of 6,000 adults and children aged five an up for the Phase 3 trial that is set to begin by the end of the year. The three-dose vaccine will be administered over nine months, and then participants will receive a booster 12 months later. Pfizer is aiming to apply for Food and Drug Administration approval in 2025.

This stage comes after Pfizer reported strong Phase 2 data for the shot - called VLA15 - in February. In that trial, the company determined that the three dose regimen was most effective against the virus.

A vaccine for Lyme disease could return to the market at a much needed time in the U.S. Cases of the disease have rocketed in recent years. An analysis published last week by FAIR Health found that cases of of the tick-borne illness have jumped 250 percent in rural areas from 2007 to 2021. Experts are warning that tick bites are becoming more frequent as well, especially in areas where the critters would not be expected.

Pfizer is launching Phase 3 clinical trials - the final trial - for a Lyme disease vaccine. It would be the first jab for the disease available since GSK's shot was pulled from the market amid a budding anti-vaccine movement in 2002 (file photo)

Prevalence of Lyme disease has increased in recent years as bites from the blacklegged ticks that transmit it have jumped. Dr John Oliver partially blames deforestation for the increase in tick bites

'With increasing global rates of Lyme disease, providing a new option for people to help protect themselves from the disease is more important than ever,' Dr Annaliesa Anderson, head of vaccine research and development at Pfizer, said in a statement.

'We hope that the data generated from the Phase 3 study will further support the positive evidence for VLA15 to date, and we are looking forward to collaborating with the research sites across the U.S. and Europe on this important trial.'

The protein based vaccine will complete enrollment for this final stage of trials as early as the end of 2022.

Pfizer partnered with the French company Valneva to work on the vaccine in April of 2020 - just as the COVID-19 pandemic was getting underway.

Phase 2 trials were initiated in 2020, including 600 people between the ages of five and 65. Both companies have put an emphasis on making the jab available to children as well.

If successful, VLA15 would be the only vaccine for Lyme disease available in America - but it would not be the first to ever hit the U.S. market.

LYMErix was a highly effective Lyme disease vaccine manufactured by UK pharma giant GlaxoSmithKline in the late 1990s. It was up to 90 percent effective at preventing infection.

Analysis by FAIR Health looked through more than 36 billion private healthcare claims filed across most of America's 50 states

Lyme disease is, as expected, most common in the Northeastern region of the U.S.

Its arrival came around the same time that an anti-vaccine movement erupted in the UK - and across the world - over false reports that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine was causing autism in some children.

Oliver (pictured), an entomologist at the University of Minnesota, says that only a fraction of tick bites will actually result in a disease

This led to significant backlash against the UK manufacturer for launching a jab to fight a disease many did not see as a major threat. There was little demand for it and it eventually was pulled off the market in 2002.

Lyme disease is starting to surge in the U.S., though, opening the door for another shot to take LYMErix's place.

Analysis by FAIR Health  owner of one of America's largest claims databases  revealed a 357 percent surge in applications linked to the tick-borne illness from 2007 to 2021 across rural areas.

There was also an uptick in towns and cities, where it rose by 65 percent over the same period.

As expected, Lyme disease is most common in Northeastern states like New Jersey, Vermont, Maine, Rhode Island and Connecticut

Dr Jon Oliver, an entomologist at the University of Minnesota, told DailyMail.com in May that millions of Americans are bit by ticks every year, but transmission of dangerous diseases related to tick bites like Lyme disease and Alpha-gal syndrome rarely transmit.

Shania Twain says Lyme disease battle was 'devastating' Shania Twain says her Lyme disease battle was 'devastating'. The Man! I Feel Like a Woman! hitmaker contracted the tick-borne illness in 2003, and was forced to undergo open-throat surgery after her voice was damaged by the effects of dysphonia as a result of the disease. And now, Shania has said she 'mourned' the loss of her voice, because she thought her disease would mean she'd never be able to sing again. 'It was devastating I felt I had no other choice but to just accept it - in that I would never sing again. I was mourning the expression of my voice,' said the star. After taking some time away from the spotlight to recover, Shania made her music comeback in 2017, complete with a new gravelly tone to her voice, which she now believes is 'kinda sexy'. Speaking to Sunday Today, she added: 'I'm never going to have my old voice again. I'm okay with that. I've found a new voice and I like it. [It's] kinda sexy.' Shania Twain says her Lyme disease battle was 'devastating'. She contracted the tick-borne illness in 2003, and was forced to undergo open-throat surgery after her voice was damaged Advertisement

Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne illness that affects up to 35,000 people every year, comes from rats. A tick that feeds off of a rat may acquire the disease, then pass the bacteria that causes it onto the next animal it feeds off of.

Tick-borne illnesses reach their dead-end with humans, though, as people can not transmit it to each other, or to another organism.

These type of bacterial infections also do no harm to the tick, allowing it to continue feeding off of other creatures even after it has become infected.

Because ticks have evolved to feed off of a person without them noticing - even releasing chemicals that numb the host - a majority of tick bites go unnoticed.

The bugs can stick to a person for a long time, though, with each passing hour they are attached to the host increasing the likelihood they pass on a potentially dangerous disease.

'Most tick born diseases require a tick to feed for at least 24 hours before they transfer the bacterial disease,' Oliver said.

He explains that after within the first 24 hours of a tick attaching itself to a human, the risk of disease transmission is low. After 36 hours, the risk would have rapidly increased, and by 60 hours, there is virtually a 100 percent chance at transmission.

Even when a person does get infected, they often manage to deal with it without medical treatment, and they may not even know they were suffering from the infection.

Oliver believes that official figures may only be catching around ten percent of cases - with around 300,000 people likely being infected every year.

With only around one percent of tick bites leading into an infection, this means that million of people are unknowingly getting chomped on by the critters on a yearly basis.

The prevalence of these creatures has increased as well. As humans destroy forests and invade natural habitats, they are also interacting with more bugs that they wouldn't be otherwise.

There are far more ticks than there were 20 years ago, and the distribution of ticks has expanded a lot,' he said, a harbinger for what may be to come with Lyme disease and other illnesses.
Doctors have raised the alarm over a brand new virus that has infected dozens of people in China.

'Langya' henipavirus  or LayV  was detected in 35 people in the country's eastern Henan and Shandong provinces.

It belongs to a family of viruses that are known to kill up to three quarters of humans in severe cases.

None of the new cases have resulted in death and most are mild, with patients experiencing flu-like symptoms.

The novel virus is thought to have been passed on by shrews  small mammals from the same family as hedgehogs and moles.

A study published last week revealed the virus was first detected in humans in 2018 but dozens of cases have been found since.

Chinese experts investigating the virus believe human cases are 'sporadic'. They are still trying to work out if it can spread from person to person.

Langya virus has been spotted in 35 people in China (pictured, an illustration of Nipah virus, a related virus)

The virus has never been spotted in humans before and experts believe it was passed on by shrews

What is Langya virus? What is Langya virus? Langya virus is a henipavirus that has been spotted in humans for the first time in China. It belongs to the same family as the same family as Nipah virus, which is a deadly pathogen that is usually found in bats. Experts believe Langya was passed on to humans by shrews, a small, mole-like mammal. Where was it spotted? The virus infected 35 people in Henan and Shandong provinces in the East of the country. The Taiwanese Centers for Disease Control raised the alarm about the virus although cases have been limited to China so far. What are the symptoms? The most common symptom suffered was fever, with all people infected coming down with a temperature. It was followed by fatigue (54 per cent), cough (50 percent), loss of appetite (50 per cent), muscle aches (46 per cent) and feeling queasy (38 per cent). Should I be worried? None of the Langya cases have so far resulted in people dying, although patients have been left with flu-like symptoms. There has been no evidence of human-to-human spread so far, although Taiwanese authorities have set up new testing to monitor its transmission. The first cases were spotted before January 2019 and have only been sporadic since. Advertisement

Researchers led by the Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology published their findings on the virus, also known as LayV, in a study in the New England Journal of Medicine.

They spotted the first case before January 2019 in Shandong, before a cluster of 14 cases were found over the following year in both provinces.

No infections were found during the first year of the pandemic in January to July in 2020, with researchers pausing work to prevent the spread of Covid.

But 11 more were found from that month onwards.

Researchers tracked symptoms in patients to see how badly people were affected by the virus.

The most common symptom suffered by Langya patients was fever, with all people infected coming down with a temperature.

It was followed by fatigue (54 per cent), cough (50 percent), loss of appetite (50 per cent), muscle aches (46 per cent) and feeling queasy (38 per cent).

Around 35 per cent suffered liver problems while 8 per cent saw a fall in kidney function.

They also tracked the virus in animal populations to see whether it was being spread by domestic and wild animals, or if human-to-human transmission may have been to blame.

Chinese researchers found the virus in 71 of 262 shrews  a small mole-like mammal  surveyed in the two Chinese provinces where the outbreak started.

Alongside shrews, the virus was also spotted in dogs (5 per cent) and goats (2 per cent).

The paper said: 'There was no close contact or common exposure history among the patients, which suggests that the infection in the human population may be sporadic.

'Contact tracing of nine patients with 15 close-contact family members revealed no close-contact LayV transmission.

'But our sample size was too small to determine the status of human-to-human transmission for LayV.'

Langya is hepinavirus  the same family as Nipah virus, which is a deadly pathogen that is usually found in bats.

Like Covid, Nipah can spread through respiratory droplets. But it is far more deadly, killing up to three-quarters of people it infects.

It has been listed as one of the viruses most likely to cause the next pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The brain-swelling virus was first discovered in Malaysia and Singapore in 1999, when 300 cases led to 100 deaths.

There is currently no Nipah vaccine approved for humans  but at least eight are currently being tested on animals, including one made by Oxford University.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is planning on green lighting plans to make America's supply of monkeypox vaccines last longer by slashing the dosage 80 percent and changing the way it is delivered to patients.

Bloomberg reports that in order to quell a shortage of the Jynneos monkeypox vaccine officials are planning on delivering doses of the vaccine that are only 0.1 milliliter (ml) - a massive fall from the 0.5 ml standard dose. They believe that using an intradermal injection - which delivers the vaccine between the layers of the skin instead of underneath the skin's fat - will make sure the shot is just as effective.

The FDA is set to approve plans to cut the dosage of the Jynneos monkeypox vaccine by 80%, and deliver it intradermally in a bid to solve America's vaccine shortage (file photo)

It comes in response to a massive shortage in monkeypox vaccines available in the U.S. Officials have so far distributed only 600,000 doses to state and local jurisdictions around the country. When jabs have become available in major population centers like New York City, appointments have been filled within minutes due to the exceedingly high demand.

The science behind the move is limited, though. A single 2015 study funded by the National Institutes of Health shows that vaccines can be just as effective through the intradermal route, but no other data exists. This would be a massive shift in America's response to the virus based on limited existing evidence.

The move comes as the U.S. logged a record 1,424 cases on Monday, the highest total since the global outbreak first found its way stateside in May. In total, the U.S. has logged 8,934 infections - the most of any country.

This outbreak could soon get worse as well. The new school year is set to begin at colleges and universities across the U.S. in the coming weeks. Young students are more likely to engage in careless sexual behavior, creating a perfect storm for potential monkeypox outbreaks around the nation.

Officials wrote in an email obtained by Bloomberg that the FDA will soon give emergency clearance to the rationed jabs.

The Jynneos vaccine was developed by Bavarian Nordic for smallpox, but it also effective against monkeypox.

Last week, FDA Chief Robert Califf explained that this new approach will allow the nation to make the most of its resources without losing effectiveness.

'The upside is you can stretch out doses,' Dr John Moore, a virologist at Cornell University told the New York Times of the plan.

'The downside is, if you cut it too far or take too many liberties, you reduce the efficacy. And how are you going to know that? It's educated guesswork.'

Federal officials currently have access to around 1.1 million shots - well short of enough to cover vulnerable populations in America.

Last week, the Department of Health and Human Services declared the virus a public health emergency, opening the door for regulators to make these types of moves.

Former FDA Chief Dr Scott Gottlieb (pictured) told CBS' Face the Nation that America's monkeypox outbreak can still be controlled

But there are some questions as to whether this is the right move.

In 2015, researchers gathered that smallpox vaccines were just as effective when delivered in smaller doses if the injection was performed intradermally.

It was just one study performed on 524 participants, though, and using a different vaccine.

Currently, shots are mainly reserved for men who have sex with other men - though some exposed people have been granted the shot as a precaution.

Access to the shots may need to be expanded soon. Some officials fear that the virus has already escaped that sexual network and is now in other groups as well.

'There's a potential to get this back in the box but its going to be very difficult at this point,' Dr Scott Gottlieb, formed FDA chief, told CBS' Face the Nation over the weekend.

'We're continuing to look for cases in the community of men who have sex with men, its primarily spreading in that community, but there's no question it has spread outside that community at this point and I think we need to start looking for cases more broadly.'

While exact federal data is not available, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Dr Rochelle Walensky said during a briefing last week that gay and bisexual men still make up a majority of cases.

The CDC has greatly expanded its testing capacity in recent weeks, now being able to perform 80,000 per week across its own testing and agreements set up with private partners.

Last week Walensky said that only around ten percent of America's testing capacity was being used, opening the door for significant expansions in the amount of people that should be tested.

Gottlieb said that any person with an atypical case of either shingles or herpes should be tested for monkeypox at this point.

Expanding testing will either find more cases - giving officials more information they can use to control the outbreak - or will confirm more people as negative and confirm areas where the virus is not spreading.

He also believes the CDC should begin wastewater surveillance - which can give more general pictures of where the virus is spreading without individual testing.

Despite his concerns, Gottlieb does not think the virus has reached a point where the average American should be worried.

I dont think this is something people need to be generally worried about,' he explained.

'I think the incidence of this infection in the broader community is still very low. Your risk of coming into contact with monkeypox is still exceedingly low outside of certain social networks where you see a higher case rate.

'If you want to contain it we need to start looking more widely for it.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has deployed a team to investigate a polio case in Rockland County, New York, as local officials fear that there could be thousands of undiagnosed cases in the state.

The breadth of the CDC's investigation, how long they will be present or if their findings will ever be made public are not known. Officials present also plan to help distribute shots of the polio vaccine to the Rockland community - which has an extremely low jab rate of only 60 percent.

New York state officials announced the detection of the nation's first polio cases in over a decade in Rockland County in July. The infected man experienced paralysis, but is now recovering at home. In the time since, wastewater surveillance has detected the virus in both Rockland and in nearby Orange county.

The detection of at least one symptomatic case likely means there are others elsewhere, though, and that is near-confirmed by the findings in Orange county. Because in many cases the virus is either asymptomatic or so mild a person will not realize it is polio, one severe case could mean there are many others that are more mild.

One Rockland officials warned Monday that there could even be 'thousands' of cases circulating in the state.

Officials in New York are warning that there may already be 'hundreds' of New Yorkers infected with polio after at least three wastewater samples were detected across two counties just outside of New York City, Rockland and Orange (pictured)

Common symptoms of polio include high temperatures, extreme fatigue, headaches, vomiting, stiff neck and muscle pain

'There isn't just one case of polio if you see a paralytic case. The incidence of paralytic polio is less than one percent,' Dr Patricia Schnabel Ruppert,health commissioner for Rockland County, told BBC.

'Most cases are asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic, and those symptoms are often missed.

'So there are hundreds, perhaps even thousands of cases that have occurred in order for us to see a paralytic case.'

The CDC is working to learn more about this outbreak, and even to prevent more cases by providing jabs to the local community.

The two afflicted counties so far, Rockland and Orange, both are among those with the lowest vaccination rates in America at around 60 percent each.

Dr Mary Bassett (pictured), New York health commissioner, warns that there may be hundreds of undetected polio cases in the state

'CDC continues to collaborate with the New York State Department of Health to investigate a recent case of paralytic polio in an unvaccinated individual from Rockland County,' the agency wrote to ABC.

'These efforts include ongoing testing of wastewater samples to monitor for poliovirus and deploying a small team to New York to assist on the ground with the investigation and vaccination efforts.'

A vaccinated person has little to worry about, and the U.S. has vaccine coverage of over 90 percent.

Many had to receive the jabs to go to primary school. Inoculation lasts for life and there is no booster required for a person to stay safe from the virus.

Ruppert is not the only expert to sound the alarm about a breadth of cases in the state.

'Based on earlier polio outbreaks, New Yorkers should know that for every one case of paralytic polio observed, there may be hundreds of other people infected,' Dr Mary Bassett, the state's health commissioner said last week.

'Coupled with the latest wastewater findings, the Department is treating the single case of polio as just the tip of the iceberg of much greater potential spread.

'As we learn more, what we do know is clear: the danger of polio is present in New York today. We must meet this moment by ensuring that adults, including pregnant people, and young children by 2 months of age are up to date with their immunization.'

New York state officials launched polio surveillance efforts in response to the case confirmed on July 21.

Polio: Once the most feared disease in America that has now become a rarity Polio is a serious viral infection that used to be common all over the world. The virus lives in the throat and intestines for up to six weeks, with patients most infectious from seven to 10 days before and after the onset of symptoms. But it can spread to the spinal cord causing muscle weakness and paralysis. The virus is more common in infants and young children and occurs under conditions of poor hygiene. How deadly is it? Most people show no signs of infection at all but about one in 20 people have minor symptoms such as fever, muscle weakness, headache, nausea and vomiting. Around one in 50 patients develop severe muscle pain and stiffness in the neck and back. Less than one per cent of polio cases result in paralysis and one in 10 of those result in death. Of those who develop symptoms, these tend to appear three-to-21 days after infection and include: High temperature

Sore throat

Headache

Abdominal pain

Aching muscles

Nausea and vomiting How does it spread? People can catch polio via droplets in the air when someone coughs or sneezes, or if they come into contacted with the feces of an infected person. This includes food, water, clothing or toys. Is polio still around in the U.S.? The last case of person-to-person transmission in the U.S. was in 1979, which was also marked the last wild polio case. But there have been several dozen cases of vaccine-derived polioviruses since, although they have been one-offs, with no onward transmission. Advertisement

The case was confirmed in an Orthodox Jewish man in his 20s. He himself is unvaccinated, and contracted the vaccine-derived version of the virus.

Vaccine-derived polio can form when a person receives a live-virus vaccine - an oral immunization that can pass the virus on to others through fecal contamination.

That vaccine is no longer used in America, meaning it likely transmitted from a person that receive it abroad and eventually made it back to this New York man.

He suffered paralysis as a result of his infection and is now recovering at home after a hospital stay. It was reported earlier this week that he is still struggling to walk.

Given his lack of international travel during the standard infection period, it is likely that he contracted the virus stateside. This alerted officials to begin surveillance.

Wastewater sampling detected polio in Rockland county in June. It was also detected in Orange county in June and July.

'Given how quickly polio can spread, now is the time for every adult, parent, and guardian to get themselves and their children vaccinated as soon as possible,' Basset said.

Polio is a potentially disabling and life-threatening disease, which in serious cases can spread to the spinal cord triggering paralysis and even death.

It is highly contagious and spreads after someone touches a surface contaminated with an infected person's feces and then their own mouth.

About one in four people who catch the virus develop flu-like symptoms including a sore throat, fever, tiredness and stomach pain.

One in 25 will go on to suffer meningitis  when the spinal cord is infected  and later paralysis. Of these, up to one in ten die from the infection.

It was once the most feared disease in the U.S., sparking panic throughout the 1940s.

Parents were left afraid to let their children play outside  particularly in summer when the virus appeared to be more common , and public health officials would impose quarantines on homes and even whole towns where it was spotted.

It was behind more than 15,000 paralyses every year, and hundreds of deaths.

But in the mid-1950s the country began rolling out poliovirus vaccines to prevent the disease.

By 1979, the United States declared the virus had been eliminated. There has been no known transmission on U.S. soil since.

The vaccine was also rolled out globally, with the virus pushed back to just a few countries.

It is now only known to be circulating in Pakistan and Afghanistan. The WHO warns that as long as it continues to spread there, it remains a threat to the world.

But in recent years  as the virus has retreated from the national memory  vaccination rates have slowed in the United States.

Latest figures show now about 92.6 percent of Americans are vaccinated against polio by their second birthday.

This is below the 95 percent threshold the WHO says is needed to stop an outbreak.
Inmarsat's takeover by a US rival has been paused after watchdogs opened a formal probe into the deal.

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said the British satellite firm's 5.4billion tie-up with California-based Viasat will be investigated.

The regulator will make a decision before October 5 on whether to refer the deal for a more in-depth Phase 2 probe.

Inmarsat, which provides in-flight WiFi for airlines, agreed to the deal in November

Inmarsat, which provides in-flight WiFi for airlines and internet connections for boats, agreed to the deal in November and the two businesses had wanted the takeover closed by the end of the summer.

But the timeline has been derailed after the CMA said last month it was considering an investigation into the deal on the grounds that it could result 'in a substantial lessening of competition' in the UK. A key area of concern is the aviation market, where the two businesses overlap.

Several companies are expected to weigh in on the inquiry into the takeover before the window for comment closes next Monday.

Among those understood to want the merger blocked is French aerospace giant Airbus, one of the leading providers of satellite technology in the world.

Elon Musk's Space X could also wade into the discussion over the merger as the billionaire looks to muscle his way into the market.

Space X, which operates its own satellite network called Starlink, previously complained to the US Federal Communications Commission about the deal, saying Viasat should not be allowed to control Inmarsat's ground terminals.

Serco is thought to be another firm against the deal. The FTSE 250 outsourcer is part of Athena, a UK space partnership that includes Inmarsat as well as IT firm CGI and US defence giant Lockheed Martin.

Inmarsat's takeover was given the green light by Viasat shareholders in June after the two companies said they had agreed to several legally binding commitments with the Government.

These included pledges to increase the number of highly skilled jobs, raise research and development spending and keep key operations in Britain.

Founded in 1979, Inmarsat began life as a UN agency helping distressed sailors send SOS signals.

It employs around 1,800 staff across the world, including 860 in London. Its technology is used in everything from climate change tracking to keeping rural cattle farmers connected to the internet.

The takeover risks raising further concerns about the impact of British defence and technology firms being bought up by foreign buyers.

The probe also comes amid a battle over the future of fellow British satellite firm OneWeb, which is part-owned by the taxpayer and currently in danger of being swallowed by French rival Eutelsat.

Other controversial takeovers over the past year have included the 2.6billion buyout of defence group Ultra Electronics by US private equity group Advent International, which also bought peer Cobham in 2020 for 4billion.
Abrdn has dramatically decided to close a fifth of its funds in a move that will affect hundreds of thousands of ordinary investors.

The asset manager, which looks after 508billion of savings, could also face relegation from the FTSE 100 if its shares do not pick up by the next reshuffle of the blue-chip index at the end of this month.

In an effort to slash costs, Abrdn said it would axe more than 100 funds which were 'non-core' after swinging to a loss in the first half of the year.

Abrdn said it would axe more than 100 funds which were 'non-core'

The shake-up is likely to affect investment pots worth around 7billion, which look after the nest-eggs of hundreds of thousands of Britons.

Abrdn, formerly known as Standard Life Aberdeen, reviewed all of its 550 regularly sold funds.

The Edinburgh-based firm found that more than 100 could be merged with others or shut down entirely.

Investors in affected funds will be offered the chance to switch to a similar product, or will be given their investment back at its current value. Several fund managers will likely lose their jobs, though Abrdn said it could not yet put a number on how many.

Chief executive Stephen Bird (pictured) said: 'When I became chief executive in late 2020 I said we would refocus our investments business into areas of strength, where we have scale and also significantly expand our reach into the higher growth UK wealth market. We are doing exactly that.'

Worse than the low expectations we had

The drastic step is a sign of just how hard Bird is pushing to turn around Abrdn's lumbering performance, since Standard Life and Aberdeen Asset Management merged in 2017.

Since the 11billion deal completed, the investment house has been struggling to boost the performance of some of its funds and put a stop to investors who have been pulling their money out in their droves.

In the first six months of 2022, investors pulled out 3.8billion more than they ploughed in  even before taking into account the 24.4billion which Lloyds Banking Group took back after ending its relationship with Abrdn.

Bird also blamed sliding markets, as traders prepare for a spell of economic gloom, for its weak performance as revenue which the firm generates from fees slid by 8 per cent to 696million.

Since 2017, Abrdn has been struggling to boost the performance of some of its funds

Abrdn recently bought Interactive Investor, a trading platform, for 1.5billion in an effort to tap into Britain's army of savers. But even there, new customer growth failed to impress.

Just 19,000 investors signed up in the first half of the year  well below the 47,000 over the same time last year.

David McCann, an analyst at broker Numis, said last night: 'Pretty much all of the key numbers were worse than the low expectations we had.'

Abrdn's losses hit 320million, compared to a 113million profit over the same time last year.

And assets under management at the group slid from 542billion to 508billion, as a result of the Lloyds withdrawal, falling markets and investor outflows.

Shares fell 6.8 per cent, or 11.8p, to 161.15p yesterday.
Nigel Wilson, chief executive of Legal & General

The boss of Britains largest asset manager has called on the next Prime Minister to open the countrys doors to investment.

Nigel Wilson, chief executive of Legal & General, said the next inhabitant of Number 10 desperately needs to push ahead with reform to boost growth.

He picked out areas such as planning and pension regulations which were ripe for a shake-up.

We need an investment-led recovery in the UK and that plays to our strengths, Wilson said.

Wed like to step up and do more, rather than less. Were hoping that whoevers the next Prime Minister encourages us to invest more in the UK.

At the moment, Wilson said, the planning system results in projects taking too long to complete.

And strict rules governing how pension money is invested  which are being examined by Parliament  make it too tricky for investors like L&G to plough money into areas which need it.

I think people would like to see us invest more. Theres lots of economic and social problems that need solving across the UK  a lot of those are capital, he said.

Its so important that we get the UK to modernise, he said, adding that homes and offices in the US were being retrofitted to make them more energy-efficient.

But the UK had not passed any regulation here that would be helpful in the transition to net zero, adding: We know housing is a very important part of that.

L&G celebrated a solid six months, with profits up from 1.1billion to 1.2billion in the first half of the year. Investors also piled 65.6billion into its L&G Investment Management business.

And it said the pipeline of pension risk transfer deals  where companies sell their pension liabilities to a firm like L&G to offload the risk  was the strongest it had ever been.
A horrified mother who let her two sons get temporary tattoos in Bali has warned other travelling parents after the ink left her boys with chemical burns.

Elena Kovalenko and her husband Phillip Saenko, along with their two boys Luke, 8, and Adrian, 6, arrived in Bali on a family holiday on July 27.

The family were staying at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nusa Dua when they paid $30 at a nearby night market for their boys to have temporary henna tattoos on the third night of their trip.

Ms Kovalenko said she regrettably dismissed the boy's (pictured) irritation from henna tattoos for sunburn as her attention was focused on her husband, Phillip Saenko (pictured), who was injured and hospitalised in Bali while on their family vacation

Ms Kovalenko's sons Luke, 8, and Adrian, 6, suffered chemical burns to their skin after getting temporary henna tattoos while in Nusa Dua, Bali (pictured, Luke's arm (left) and Adrian's leg (right)

The Melbourne mother-of-two said every time her family is on a holiday, her boys get temporary tattoos, but this was the first time they had had one in Bali.

'They (Luke and Adrian) have done it before in Russia, Thailand and the Gold Coast, so we didn't think twice and agreed,' Ms Kovalenko told Daily Mail Australia.

'Luke and Adrian chose their tattoo designs and sat down ready for their tattoos.'

Ms Kovalenko said she was surprised by the temporary tattoo application as the Balinese vendor took 30 minutes to draw it on rather than a 20-second' spray and stencil'.

As the night progressed, Luke and Adrian complained about a burning sensation, but Ms Kovalenko admitted she regrettably dismissed it as sunburn as the family was in the sun all day.

'I didn't pay attention to the kids' tattoos because at the same time, my husband was injured and hospitalised while we were in Bali,' Ms Kovalenko said.

Ms Kovalenko said she 'didn't think twice' when her two sons asked for a temporary tattoo as they have previously gotten inked in Thailand, Gold Coast and Russia (pictured, Luke and Adrian at an animal safari in Bali)

Ms Kovalenko was horrified when the tattoo began to fade five days later, revealing painful 'itching and burning' red welts on Luke's arm and Adrian's leg where the tattoo had been.

'When we came back (to Australia) the horror began,' Ms Kovalenko said.

'The dye came off, and it looked like a chemical burn.

'The kids were crying that it was itching and burning, so we went to the pharmacy, and we were given a cream that we applied on their sores straight away.'

The distraught mother took her boys to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne the following day after the burns appeared to be getting worse.

Doctors prescribed steroid cream to Adrian and Luke but advised the damage caused by the tattoos could be permanent.

'If it was just one child, I would think it's some kind of allergy, but because it's two kids with two different skin types, I'm just shocked,' Ms Kovalenko said.

'My kids don't have any allergies, but they will have horrible scar forever!'

Ms Kovalenko said she wanted to share her experience to warn parents and children considering temporary tattoos and called for 'black henna' to be banned.

'We all know not to drink tap water in Thailand or Bali, and we know about robbery facts in the countries too,' Ms Kovalenko said.

'The media screams about foot and mouth disease, but I never heard anything about it (black henna).

'It's a dangerous thing. It might even be life-threatening. People should be aware of it, and it should be banned.'

Ms Kovalenko shared a picture of Adrian's burn to 'Australian Bali info for traveling' Facebook group on Monday and has received over 150 comments - most of which are other travellers detailing similar bad experiences.

'My sons temp tattoo lasted for 6 years with a lot of different creams and medical visits, never again,' one user wrote.

'The same thing happened to my son and he still has the scar and that was 20 years ago,' another user commented.

'This happened to my daughter. She now has a lifelong allergy to PPD (black dye), cannot colour her hair or eyebrows - Be very careful,' a third user chimed.

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to avoid temporary black henna tattoos while in Indonesia, stating that they 'often contain a dye which can cause serious skin reactions'.

The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers in Indonesia to avoid temporary black henna tattoos as they can cause 'serious skin reactions' (stock image, Temple Street in Nusa Dua, Bali)

Henna has been used by different cultures for centuries and is usually brown or orange-brown in colour and is a paste made from grinding dried henna leaves.

Traditional henna is considered safe to use in temporary tattoos and causes few allergic reactions.

However travellers are warned to avoid 'black henna' as it typically contains para-phenylenediamine or PPD - a black ink found in hair dye.

PPD can cause serious adverse reactions including redness, itching, burning, swelling, blisters and scarring which appear seven to ten days after the ink is applied to the skin.
Jacinta Price says Peter FitzSimons sent her a series of late night texts demanding she withdraw 'nonsense' claims he was 'aggressive' during a telephone interview.

FitzSimons spoke with Senator Price for a piece published in the Sun-Herald about why she was supposedly 'empowering racists' by opposing the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament - which he strongly supports.

The Country Liberal Party senator subsequently alleged in a social media post FitzSimons was 'aggressive ... condescending and rude' - and that he shouted at her during the interview.

FitzSimons strenuously denies Senator Price's allegations. He said it was a 'friendly interview' and that he at no point shouted.

The Australian published texts messages FitzSimons purportedly sent to Senator Price urging her to withdraw her claims, saying he had recorded the interview - which showed her description of the conversation was 'complete and utter ... nonsense'.

Jacinta Price (pictured), a first term NT Senator, is against an Indigenous Voice to Parliament and changing the date of Australia Day from January 26

Senator Price alleged author Peter FitzSimons (pictured with wife and The Project host Lisa Wilkinson) FitzSimons was 'aggressive ... condescending and rude' - and that he shouted at her during a telephone interview. FitzSimons labelled the allegations 'nonsense'

What is the Indigenous Voice to Parliament? Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has proposed a referendum that could usher in a third chamber of government led by First Nation's people. Named, the Indigenous Voice to parliament, the vote will need support from the majority of Australians in the majority of states if it is to be successful. The question that could be put to Australians is: 'Do you support an alteration to the constitution that establishes an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice?' Advertisement

'You have told The Australian we shouted at each other? Every word recorded, as I advised you. I urge you to withdraw these defamatory accusations, as you know it is nonsense ... Not a single raised voice on either side, let alone shouting. This is a serious matter and you have defamed me,' Mr FitzSimons reportedly wrote to Senator Price.

Senator Price later deleted her post.

FitzSimons said he only confronted Senator Price over 'mistruths' and that he gave her views a fair airing his column.

'What I sought do was have her correct the record on the nature of our interview, which she partially did by deleting the post, and acknowledging to me I was not shouting ... As to suggestions of bullying  simply not true. The senator posted a complete and demonstrable untruth. I called her out on it, and she took down the post,' he said.

On Monday Senator Price told the paper: 'I will always stand up for myself  indigenous womens voices have been silenced long enough. As an Aboriginal woman who has been a survivor of violence and who has used my voice to highlight the plight of marginalised Aboriginal women and children, I found it disrespectful and upsetting that FitzSimons would accuse me of empowering racists.'

Country Liberal Party senator Jacinta Price and grandmother Tess Napaljarri Ross after an Indigenous ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra, Wednesday, July 27, 2022

The author also insisted his comments to Senator Price after the interview were in no way intended to silence her views, but rather to clarify the tone of the interview.

The first-term Senator said she was passionate about her own conservative views as an Aboriginal woman and did not want to have viewpoints of 'privileged' white males pushed on her.

In the since-deleted post, Senator Price claimed the interview with FitzSimons last Thursday started out well, but claimed that he became 'aggressive... condescending and rude' to her.

She said it 'was like talking to a brick wall' and that she felt 'insulted'.

'I'm not a wilting violet but he's a very aggressive bloke, his interview style is very bloody aggressive, he doesn't need to launch in,' she said.

'Accusing me of somehow giving power to racists because the issues I raise are confronting  he loses the point completely.'

Senator Price has been vocal on her position of not wanting to change the date of Australia Day from January 26.

She used her maiden speech in Canberra in July to slam Labor's plan of an Indigenous Voice in Parliament that would counsel the government on Indigenous issues.

FitzSimons (right) is pictured with his wife, television presenter Lisa Wilkinson, in 2016

'We hear with platitudes of motherhood statements from our now Labor Prime Minister who suggests without any evidence whatsoever that a Voice to Parliament bestowed upon us through the virtuous act of symbolic gesture by this government is what is going to empower us.'

She claimed the act would further divide Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians and there was no evidence to support such a function would provide positive outcomes.

Senator Price told FitzSimons the broad bipartisan support for the Voice is a result of too many Australians 'drinking the Kool-Aid' and not listening to a silent majority of Aboriginals.

Instead of being a unifying voice to promote Indigenous issues, she claimed it would be just another layer of bureaucracy that would divide her people from white Australia and assume they would always be 'victims'.

Senator Price also defended another bitter critic of the Voice, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, as someone who 'cares deeply for Indigenous Australians'.

This came after Senator Hanson stormed out of the upper house rather than sit through an acknowledgement to country.

Senator Price said travelling around the world with her teacher parents - an Indigenous mother and white father - when she was 13 opened her eyes 'to how we're all human'.

She said many Indigenous people didn't view themselves as victims of history on Australia Day, instead seeing themselves 'as proud Australians'.

Senator Price said she became politically active when she observed 'narratives about indigenous Australians' she didn't agree with
At 24, Vicky Taylor was living life to the full  the recently graduated law student was studying for her professional qualifications and looking forward to starting her career as a solicitor.

Having trained as a dancer as a child, she spent every spare hour at the gym.

But that all changed abruptly one day in April 2018, when she found herself feeling unexpectedly drained and tired at the gym and had to sit down.

'This wasn't a normal tiredness either  this was absolute sudden exhaustion,' recalls Vicky, now 27.

When it happened again at her next session, Vicky's personal trainer suggested she might be anaemic, as low levels of iron can cause tiredness. Vicky's GP referred her for blood tests but these came back clear.

At 24, Vicky Taylor was living life to the full  the recently graduated law student was studying for her professional qualifications and looking forward to starting her career as a solicitor

Her doctor had another explanation. Coincidentally, he'd recently attended a conference on a 'new' condition and recognised some of Vicky's symptoms.

'He said he wasn't sure but he believed I might have it and I should be tested,' says Vicky, who lives in Chorley, Lancashire, with her parents.

She saw a specialist and, after tests, it was confirmed she had mast cell activation syndrome, or MCAS. The condition is characterised by repeated symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction, such as a rash, sneezing and coughing.

This is something most people would associate with allergy, but in some cases  such as Vicky's  they occur without one.

We all have mast cells, a type of immune cell, in the body's connective tissues which were primarily directed to fighting parasites, which are not so relevant in our highly sanitised lives. One theory is that it is precisely because we don't have parasites that allergies are more common.

As mast cells don't have parasites to fight, they go round causing allergies, explains Hasan Arshad, a professor of allergy and immunology at Southampton General Hospital.

In people with allergies, these cells react to allergens such as pollen proteins by releasinghistamine, a powerful chemical. This causes many of the symptoms of allergies in an attempt to protect the body.

'Histamine usually acts on a person's eyes, nose, throat, lungs or stomach,' explains Professor Arshad. Sneezing and coughing is the body's way of getting rid of allergens from the nose and airway respectively, a runny nose and eyes, washing them away.

Having trained as a dancer as a child, she spent every spare hour at the gym. But that all changed abruptly one day in April 2018, when she found herself feeling unexpectedly drained and tired at the gym and had to sit down

The wheezing (caused by closing of the airway) and nasal blockage, both aimed at preventing entry of the allergens to the airway, unfortunately also prevent air entry. These symptoms can last long after the reaction has taken place. With MCAS, histamine is produced without an obvious cause but is 'intrinsic', or part of someone's individual make up  unlike with 'normal' allergic triggers, which are external, in the environment.

And in people with MCAS, mast cells break down more frequently, releasing histamine. They are 'Trigger happy', says Professor Arshad. Because there's also no diagnostic test or even agreed criteria for a diagnosis, diagnosis relies on a doctor's clinical judgement and is confirmed by an improvment after taking drugs to dampen down mast cell action.

Suspecting it was MCAS, Vicky's GP explained that it was uncommon and there were few people he knew of in the NHS who were able to diagnose it, so he referred her to a private clinic in Oxford where specialists performed tests including skin tests for common allergens such as dust, hay, pollen, animal fur and some foods. All were negative.

'Then the consultant drew a line on my back with a pen and said: 'Look'  obviously I couldn't see but I heard my mum gasp. The line had instantly become surrounded by an angry red area in reaction to the pen touching my back.'

The consultant explained this was a classic sign of MCAS as the body can react to something as simple as touch. 'I was told there was no miracle cure. I'd have to simply put up with it, managing my immunological response with medication,' she says. Soon, though, Vicky had further symptoms including flushing on her head, neck and chest, and joint pain. Extreme, debilitating tiredness left her bed-bound.

Whatever the trigger, MCAS effectively turned Vicky's life upside down. 'I've gone from someone training in the gym every day to someone who can't work or get out of bed some days,' she says.

'I couldn't get up to study or do my course. In time, I had to give it up. I also had to stop gym training as I was too exhausted and my joints hurt too much.

That was the hardest blow of all. I'd always been active. It was something I loved. It really affected my mental health.' Exhaustion and other 'vague' symptoms cause most patients great distress, says Professor Arshad.

'Mast cell activation syndrome has many facets and faces. Although presentation may be similar in patients, the causes may be different.' It's not known why a tipping point occurs, prompting a person to develop symptoms, he says. But the fact that people with MCAS can exhibit 'anything from a rash, swelling, to non-specific symptoms such as tiredness and headaches' makes diagnosis tricky and can often involve visits to numerous specialists, a process that can take years.

'Often, by the time they come to me, their confidence is low, they've been told nothing can be done, or that it's 'in their head',' says Professor Arshad. The good news is that long-term prognosis is generally good, he adds, as patients often respond well to antihistamines.

Vicky's doctors tried to manage her symptoms with over-the-counter antihistamines, later prescribing stronger ones to damp down her immune system's overreaction.

Her consultant also monitored her histamine levels regularly and she has now identified wheat, gluten and alcohol as potential triggers, which she carefully avoids.

After a month's treatment, she began to feel a little better  but would still have bad days of crippling exhaustion which left her too tired even to leave the house. 'Some days my mum had to come and put my shoes and socks on,' she says. 'I was as shocked as anyone. I'd often be in tears of frustration.'

Now Vicky is taking a clutch of strong antihistamines, which work for some of the time, but she still has bad days.

'I never even knew what mast cell activation syndrome was before I got it,' she says. 'I suppose I am at least lucky I was diagnosed straight away and not made to wait years like some do. I'm telling my story to raise awareness in case other people are still waiting to be diagnosed.'
Former state Rep. John Tilley, a former Kentucky state Democratic rep. and official has been arrested and charged with first-degree rape

Kentucky's former secretary for Justice and Public Safety was arrested in Lexington and charged with first degree rape on Monday.

Former state Rep. John Tilley, who oversaw Kentucky's state prison system under former Governor Matt Bevin, is accused of having sex at a Lexington hotel with a woman who was unable to give consent, because she was too drunk to be able do so.

The alleged rape is said to have occurred on April 15 but no charges were filed until Monday.

Lexington police revealed how Tilley turned himself in and is now being held at the Lexington-Fayette County jail.

'Mr. Tilley maintains his innocence of any criminal wrongdoing and has fully cooperated in the investigation,' said his attorneys Christopher Spedding and Steve Schroering said in a statement.

'He respects the court process and will have no further comment at this time,' they added.

Tilley had been a Democratic state representative and appointed to serve as a cabinet member over the state's justice department by former Republican Gov. Matt Bevin.

He served as Justice and Public Safety Cabinet secretary from December 2015 through 2019, overseeing Kentucky State Police, the Department of Corrections and other agencies.

During his time at the public safety cabinet, Tilley worked to decrease the backlog of untested rape kits.

Tilley, 53, was booked Monday morning into Lexington-Fayette Urban County jail

'The survivors of sexual assault should never have to endure the uncertainty of another backlog,' he said in a 2017 press release.

In a 2019 Kentucky State Police press release on the agency's use of new rapid DNA tests for rape kits, Tilley stated: 'In Kentucky, we believe in justice. Regardless of where you live, or work or play in the state, you should expect to be safe from crimes of sexual assault.'

Before that, Tilley, who is an attorney represented, served five terms as a Democratic state lawmaker from Hopkinsville in Western Kentucky. He also served as chairman of the House Judiciary Committee.

While he was secretary he pushed to reduce overcrowding in the state's prisons and jails.

'The answer is not to build more prison space, the answer is to lower our prison population,' Tilley said at the time.
An Egyptian man on trial for the murders of his daughters in what prosecutors call an 'honor killing' took the stand in his own defense Monday and claimed that he left the girls alive in his taxi and fled because he thought he was being followed and 'felt his life was in danger.'

Yaser Said, 64, a taxi cab driver in Texas, is accused of fatally shooting 17-year-old Sarah and 18-year-old Amina on New Years Day in 2008. Their bodies were found in the back of his taxi outside a Dallas-area hotel.

Said denies that he killed his daughters and told the court on Monday that the girls were 'certainly' alive when he left them in the taxi that evening and fled after he apparently became fearful that he was being followed.

The cab driver explained that he and his daughters were on their way to dinner when he attempted to escape whoever he believed was following them by leaving the girls in his taxi and taking the bus in a different direction.

Yaser Said, 64, took the stand in his own defense on Monday, where he testified that he left the girls alive in his taxi and then fled because he said he 'felt his life was in danger'

The Texas father is accused of fatally shooting 17-year-old Sarah (left) and 18-year-old Amina (right) on New Years Day in 2008 after he discovered the girls were dating non-Muslim men and thought they were becoming 'too American'

Said recalls finding out about his daughters' murders a short time later, but for 12 years, he evaded authorities and ended up on the FBI's Most Wanted List before he was found in 2020 in Justin, Texas, where he had been hiding allegedly with the help of his son and brother.

Prosecutors allege that Said conducted the honor killing - a practice where individuals are murdered for bringing perceived shame on their family - after he discovered the girls were dating non-Muslim men and thought they were becoming 'too American.'

Said has pleaded not guilty in his daughter's murders and on Monday, he took the stand in his own defense where he again denied killing them and instead testified that he believed his own life was in danger that night.

Said spoke in his native Arabic through a translator on the stand Monday as he explained his version of events on the night of New Year's Day in 2008.

Said's daughters reportedly decided to leave home before graduating high school, so their father planned to take them out to dinner to 'solve the problem,' the court heard.

But Said told the court that as he and his daughters were driving in his taxi cab on the way to the restaurant, he 'felt like someone was following me.' He added that one or more cars were following the cab.

Said recalled telling his daughters that he believed one of more cars were following them and that he would leave them in the taxi at an Irving transit center and he would flee separately because he believed he was being targeted.

'I told them the car is yours, you do whatever you want since they knew how to drive, I left the car for them,' Said testified, through his translator. He added that there were cameras at the transit centers he believed would keep his daughters safe.

Said stressed that his daughters were 'certainly' alive when he left them in the taxi, and said he regrets attempting to escape his alleged followers.

'This was a very stupid decision that I made,' he said, as he then explained how he discovered his daughters had been murdered when he walked into a Waffle house and learned that 'something had happened to somebody.

Said admitted to knowing he was wanted by the FBI, but told the court he did not turn himself in because he did not believe h would get a fair trial because of the coverage of his case.

'I don't think in the history of America there was a case that had the coverage that my case had,' he said.

Said's daughters had decided to leave home before graduating high school, so their father planned to take them out to dinner to 'solve the problem'

Said stressed that his daughters were 'certainly' alive when he left them in the taxi, and said he regrets attempting to escape his alleged followers

On Thursday, the mother of the teens told jurors that her ex-husband was abusive and controlling during their marriage.

When prosecutors asked Patricia Owens to identify ex-husband in court on Thursday, she pointed at Said and said 'That devil there.'

During her testimony, Owens said she married Said in 1987 when she was just 15 and he was 29, giving birth to her three children within the first three years of their marriage.

In 1998, Owens filed a report with the Hill County Sheriff's Office accusing Said of sexually abusing the two girls.

She said she fled with all three kids for months before eventually returning to the family's home near Waco and telling the girls to recant their stories.

Owens and her daughters fled again in 2007, moving to Tulsa, Oklahoma, after the girls said they feared for their lives if they lived together with their father.

She noted that Said would allegedly look over the girls' phone records and call the numbers to see if they belonged to a boy or a girl.

Despite fleeing from him, Owens and the girls returned to the Texas home because they were afraid there would be 'repercussions' if they didn't.

Owens, who spoke softly and often hesitantly on the stand, testified that Said eventually convinced her to return to Texas. 'I didn't think anything would happen,' she testified.

On Monday, Said denied his ex-wife's accusations that he was abusive and told jurors that 'women are protected more than men in America' and insisted that he never threatened to kill Owens.

'No American woman would fear calling the police is she was abused,' Said claimed.

Patricia Owens (pictured) called her ex-husband, Yaser Said, 'that devil' during the murder trial of their two teenage daughters on Thursday

Said's abuse of his family extended back as far as 1998, when Owens and the girls signed an affidavit alleging he had sexually abused his daughters

In the years following the 1998 allegations, friends of the girls reported they often saw them with bruises on their bodies or witnessed Said being physically violent to his family.

The girls reportedly confided in friends that their father was obsessively controlling, and that they often feared he was surveilling them wherever they went.

In a home video recorded by Said, the girls are filmed in their bedroom while Said can be heard suggestively saying 'Sarah sleeps with her pants? Mmm, very nice,' and 'Wow, look at those eyes. I got my eye on you.'

Along with Owen's testimony, the court was also shown the bullet-riddled clothes of the victims and heard the 911 call Sarah made immediately following the shooting.

'Help, my dad shot me! I'm dying,' Sarah could be heard in the call she managed to make after she was shot. Investigators said Amina was killed instantly.

Police received Sarah's frantic 911 call at about 7:30pm on that New Year's Day. Though she accused her father in the call, she seemed to lose consciousness before dispatchers could determine her location or any other information.

Shortly after the call, the cops received another call from a man reporting two women unconscious in a car in the parking lot of the Omni Mandalay Hotel in Irving, Texas.

There, police found the girls dead inside their father's taxi with multiple gunshot wounds each.

Said immediately became the prime suspect, and when authorities raided the family's home the next day he was nowhere to be found.

Said spent six years on the FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list.

Said spent six years on the FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list

Said (right) pictured with his son Islam, and daughters Sarah (center, right) and Amina (left). Islam helped harbor his father after he allegedly murdered the girls

He was found hiding out in Justin, Texas - barely 30 miles from the scene of the murder - where he had been being harbored by his son, Islam, who, at the time of the killings, was aged 19, and brother Yassein, who was approximately 45.

Both relatives were arrested after the capture and are serving sentences in federal prison.

Owens said she never talked with Said again after the girls' deaths and divorced him in 2009. She said she feared her ex-husband would turn up and kill her one day.

In 2011, while Said was still at large, Owens told The Dallas Morning News that she thought the killings could have been because of her ex-husband's belief that the girls were shaming the family with their western ways.

'He would say things like, 'They're becoming too American,'' she said.

Said's son, Islam (left) and his brother, Yassein (right). They are both serving time in federal prison for harboring Said while he was a wanted fugitive

In a letter written to the judge overseeing the case, Said said he was not happy with his kids 'dating activity' but denied killing his daughters. Defense attorney Joseph Patton said in opening statements that the evidence would not support a conviction and that police were too quick to focus on Said.

Black said Sarah Said was shot nine times and Amina Said was shot twice.

In a Dec. 21, 2007, email that was brought into evidence, Amina Said told one of her teachers that she and her sister planned to run away. She wrote that she and her sister didnt want to live by the culture of their father, who was born in Egypt, nor did they want arranged marriages, as he planned. Her father, she wrote, had 'made our lives a nightmare.'

'He will, without any drama nor doubt, kill us,' the email read.

Yaser Said, who had been sought on a capital murder warrant since the slayings, was placed on the FBI's most-wanted list.

He was finally arrested in August 2020 in Justin, about 35 miles (60 kilometers) northwest of Dallas. His son, Islam Said, and his brother, Yassim Said, were subsequently convicted of helping him evade arrest.
A man has been charged over the horrific deaths of a mother and son who were 'sliced' to death at their home in a wealthy Brisbane suburb.

The 49-year-old man has been charged with two counts of murder with police to allege they discovered him and the bodies of Jifeng Liu, known as Eileen, 47, and her son Sam, in his early 20s at about 9:30am on Monday.

The man remains in hospital under police guard and is expected to have a beside court hearing on Tuesday.

Police have confirmed the 49-year-old was the person who called triple-0 and let officers inside the home at Coolidge Court, Stretton, in the city's south.

The scene has been described as 'confronting' with officers finding the stairs of the two-storey property covered in a 'large amount of blood'.

Jifeng Liu (pictured), known as Eileen, 47, and her son Sam, in his early 20s were found dead inside their Brisbane with a man charged with two counts of murder on Tuesday

The 49-year-old man charged remains in hospital under police guard and is expected to have a beside court hearing on Tuesday (pictured, police outside the home on Tuesday)

The 49-year-old man was arrested on Monday over the 'frenzied attack' and two 'bladed weapons' were taken from the scene (pictured, an office chair outside the home on Tuesday)

The man was arrested on Monday over the 'frenzied attack' and two 'bladed weapons' were taken from the scene.

Police said a Cantonese interpreter was needed for the man who was treated in hospital for serious cuts to his arms and lower legs.

Detectives were seen taking two mobile phone, sealed in plastic evidence bags from the home late on Monday afternoon which remained cordoned-off overnight.

Forensic officers returned to the home on Tuesday morning and were seen taking photos and marking various spots around the property.

A black office chair was seen outside the garage on the driveway.

The scene at the affluent home in Coolidge Court, Stretton, in the city's south remained cordoned off overnight (pictured, an office chair on the driveway on Tuesday morning)

Police have confirmed the 49-year-old man was the person who called triple-0 and let officers inside the home in Brisbane's south (pictured, forensics at the scene on Tuesday)

Forensic officers returned to the home on Tuesday morning and were seen taking photos and marking various spots around the property in Brisbane's south

Detectives were seen taking two mobile phone, sealed in plastic evidence bags from the home late on Monday afternoon (pictured, a black office chair on the home's driveway on Tuesday)

Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham told reporters on Monday the man in custody is believed to have had a 'link to the address' but his relationship with the two found dead was yet to be fully established.

The victims are yet to be formally identified.

'There were some language difficulties with the interpretation of what he was saying, an interpreter was used by the triple zero service,' he said.

'He has exercised his right to silence and has requested the presence of a solicitor.

'It's still very early days in the investigation and it's important that we keep an open mind. There's been no information from neighbours to indicate that anything has been heard at this stage.'

Police and forensics rushed to the Coolidge Court residence in Stretton on Monday morning and found the bodies of the mother and son upstairs

A stylish brick archway at the home sits in-between a large living room and the main hallway

Pictured: An upstairs bedroom at the house where the man and woman where killed

The in the affluent suburb property features a pristine swimming pool in the backyard

Det Supt Massingham said there were CCTV cameras at the front of the home, which are yet to be reviewed.

'The scene was confronting and has been described as an (alleged) frenzied attack on the two deceased persons,' Det Supt Massingham told reporters.

A major crime scene was set up as officers cordoned off the quiet cul-de-sac and knocked on the doors of neighbours, with the street remaining under a heavy police presence on Monday afternoon.

'So our forensic officers have been in on a couple of occasions now. The scene is quite traumatic in terms of a large amount of blood that is present,' Det Supt Massingham said.

Forensic officers spent much of Monday at the home scouring for clues and photographing evidence outside the front of the double garage

Pictured: The affluent 'President's Estate' home where Jifeng Liu and her son Sam reportedly resided

Police were confronted with traumatic scenes when they arrived at the Coolidge Court home

The bodies of a woman and a man were found upstairs inside the two storey home

Images of the property where the grisly scene played out reveal an affluent house with an interior hallway, upstairs bedroom and backyard with a swimming pool.

The photos obtained by Daily Mail Australia also shows an open plan living area with a spacious modern kitchen, four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a double garage for up to six vehicles.

A stylish brick archway sits in-between a large living room and the main hallway.

The bodies are expected to be removed from the scene by Monday night with an autopsy to be completed by Tuesday.

Coolidge Court remained cordoned off with a heavy police presence on Monday afternoon

Police described the scene inside the home as confronting and traumatic with 'large amounts of blood present' (pictured, forensic officers at the home)

Shocked neighbours told the Courier Mail a man, woman and boy lived at the house. They were described as 'lovely people who mainly kept to themselves'.

'Recently I haven't seen them too much but normally they are out in the yard,' one man said.

'I think the boy just got his licence not that long ago.

'You don't think this kind of thing will happen around you but obviously it has.'

Another told the ABC: 'They kept to themselves, if they were going up the street you'd just wave, say hi and that was about it.'

Another local said said he heard a dog constantly barking on Sunday night.

Police hope to remove the bodies of a man and a woman from the home by Monday night

Shocked neighbours say Coolidge Court is a quiet and peaceful street and that the occupants who lived at the home kept to themselves (pictured, police in the cordoned off street)

'In the morning it was very quiet until the police got here, the only thing we could recall was a dog barking and going crazy last night before the other dogs on the street started barking too,' he said.

'I have never heard any real noise or anything from that end of the street, it's usually very quiet so it's very scary and shocking.'

The property last sold for $760,000 four years ago, according to online data.

The median price for homes in Stretton is more than $900,000 and is home to a population of 4,334, according to the 2016 Census.

The average weekly household income for the suburb is $1,843, well above the national median of $1,234.
A Good Samaritan tradie has recalled his confrontation with a man who allegedly attacked a woman outside her own home in one of Sydney's most exclusive suburbs.

The mother-of-two was allegedly stabbed outside her Dover Heights home

Mother-of-two Helen Coulston, 46, remains in a critical but stable condition St Vincent's Hospital after she was allegedly stabbed when she answered the front door of her Dover Heights home in Sydney's east on Monday.

Builder Peter Haramis, 37, was on his lunch break nearby when he heard Ms Coulston screaming for help and rushed to her aid.

Her alleged attacker was standing over Ms Coulston by the time Mr Haramis reached them at the top of the stairs as he recalled the man's stone-cold emotionless stare.

'She was just screaming: 'Help me! Help! He's gonna kill me!' he told Newswire NCA.

'He sort of, he looked at me and he froze... so I thought to myself, this is it, I think I have to fight him here.

Pictured: Helen Coulston remains in a critical but stable condition

Despite her injuries, a brave Ms Coulston managed to grab the knife and threw it onto the footpath before rushing back inside and locked the door, Mr Haramis said.

'I picked up the knife ... he started walking towards me,' Mr Haramis recalled.

'He was just walking towards me saying: 'Give me the knife.'

'I said: 'No, you're not getting it.'

'Then the guy just calmly turns around and starts walking up the hill to his car.'

Peter Haramis (pictured right speaking to police) rushed to the aid of the mother-of-two

The tense standoff eventually ended when the alleged attacker jumped into a white Audi and sped off.

A quick-thinking Mr Haramis called the police and gave them the registration details.

The luxury car was then intercepted by heavily-armed police on Campbell Parade at Bondi Beach moments later and a man, 46, was arrested.

The man was charged with wounding with intent to murder and will appear in Waverley Local Court on Tuesday.

Police have confirmed Ms Coulstons attacker wasn't her husband. He is believed to be a family friend.

Mr Haramis and his construction team stayed with the woman and rendered aid until ambulance crew arrived at the scene.

A hero builder comes to the rescue of a woman who was stabbed in the chest with a kitchen knife in Dover Heights

Peter (left), a nearby builder managed to grab the knife from the street while the man who is alleged to be the offender demanded the weapon to be handed over

Paramedics landed at nearby Dudley Page Reserve and assessed her, before she was taken to hospital by ambulance

Johnny Spili, Mr Haramis' boss, told Daily Mail Australia on Monday he couldn't be more proud of his employee who was working on a house two doors down at the time of the attack.

'I am very proud of Peter's conduct and how he intervened. I am very happy he contained himself, stood his ground protected the lady and then he kept his cool, it could have turned out so much worse,' Mr Spili said.

Mr Spili said Peter had called him multiple times this afternoon since the attack and said he was shook up but he is 'a tough kid'

He said Mr Haramis told him the woman managed to grab the knife off the attacker and throw it away for Peter to then pick it up.

Mr Spili says Peter told him he 'stood his ground ready to go and told the attacker to come and get it'.

'I think he is doing well, he is just pretty shooken [shaken] up and is just taking some time to relax and process what happened,' Mr Spili said.

'He has called me a few times and he is in shock but he will be fine, he is a tough kid.'

When approached by the alleged attacker, Peter kept his cool moving backwards as the alleged offender closed in - before eventually the man calmly walked away, hopping in a white Audi and driving off

Police have arrested the 46-year-old man, his white Audi has been towed and will be forensically examined

Three ambulances and the helicopter ambulance were dispatched to the scene.

Paramedics landed at nearby Dudley Page Reserve and assessed Ms Coulston, before she was rushed to hospital.

Police closed part of Weonga Rd and established a crime scene.

It's understood the woman's husband attended the property a short time later.

Police have arrested the 46-year-old man, his white Audi has been towed and will be forensically examined.

NSW Ambulance say paramedics managed to stabilise the woman and she was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in a critical but stable condition

NSW Ambulance Inspector Giles Buchanan said paramedics managed to stabilise the woman and she was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in a critical but stable condition.

'This was a very traumatic scene to arrive at with a significant, life threatening stab wound,' Mr Buchanan said.

'Paramedics administered IV fluids, stemmed the bleeding and provided pain relief to stabilise the patient.

'Stabbing wounds are generally confronting incidents and this patient has suffered a very serious injury.'
Mayor Eric Adams is planning to house up to 600 migrant households in a large midtown Manhattan facility by next week.

Adams launched plans to open the facility as Texas Governor Greg Abbott began sending busloads of immigrants from Mexico and South America to New York City.

The mayor has requested NYC's non-profit shelter operators to submit operating plans for the facility by Wednesday, noting it must be capable of housing 600 families and be operational by next Monday.

Meantime, Adams slammed Abbott for using 'innocent people as political pawns to manufacture a crisis' and said applauded the Big Apple for 'stepping up to fix it.'

He also called on President Joe Biden's Administration, saying NYC needs the 'federal governments help,' including money and technical assistance, to house and provide for the migrants.

Mayor Eric Adams is planning to house up to 600 migrant households in a large midtown Manhattan facility by next week. He is pictured at Port Authority over the weekend welcoming asylum seekers bussed in from Texas

Adams requested NYC's non-profit shelter operators to submit operating plans for the facility by Wednesday, noting it must be capable of housing 600 families and be operational by next Monday. Migrants are pictured arriving at Port Authority over the weekend

The Department of Homeless Services requested facility proposals last week, according to documents reviewed by The New York Post.

The agency has identified an unspecified building for the facility, but have allowed nonprofits to propose their own location as long as it remains in the midtown neighborhood.

Charities who submit proposals must be ready to start housing families by August 15.

Any selected contractors must be able to provide immigrants with 24/7 support services and Spanish-speaking staffers to aid the residents.

'The population served by the selected vendor will be families with children, adult couples and individual adults,' city officials said, noting most of the migrants are coming from Central and South America via the US-Mexico border.

Charities must submit a budget with their proposal, however the city has not indicated a suggested price tag for the project.

Adams is pictured with volunteers as they distribute food to the migrants who arrived at Port Authority in NYC over the weekend

Adams launched plans to open the facility as Texas Governor Greg Abbott began sending busloads of immigrants from Mexico and South America to New York City. Migrants are pictured arriving at Port Authority on Friday

Charities who submit proposals for the migrant facility must be ready to start housing families by August 15. Any selected contractors must be able to provide immigrants with 24/7 support services and Spanish-speaking staffers to aid the residents. Migrants are pictured arriving in NYC on Friday

Officials estimated that thousands of migrants have come to the Big Apple in recent months through various means including buses, cars, on airplanes and after transiting through other cities.

The new housing facility would allow city officials to 'centralize their efforts' to provide services to the migrants instead of placing them in shelters across the city.

Abbott sent his first busload of migrants to Manhattan last week. Nearly 50 arrived at Port Authority on Friday.

They were greeted and then brought into the custody of non-governmental charity workers. Adams was pictured meeting with the new arrivals at the bus terminal.

Adams slammed Abbott for using 'innocent people as political pawns to manufacture a crisis' and said applauded the Big Apple for 'stepping up to fix it'

Abbott was been shipping migrants from Texas to liberal cities across the US as part of his ploy to raise awareness about the problems with illegal immigration.

'Because of President Bidens continued refusal to acknowledge the crisis caused by his open border policies, the State of Texas has had to take unprecedented action to keep our communities safe,' Abbott told Fox News last week.

'In addition to Washington, DC, New York City is the ideal destination for these migrants, who can receive the abundance of city services and housing that Mayor Eric Adams has boasted about within the sanctuary city.'

'I hope he follows through on his promise of welcoming all migrants with open arms so that our overrun and overwhelmed border towns can find relief.'

Mayor Eric Adams and volunteers greet asylum seekers arriving in New York City from Texas

Homeless rights advocates help clean up and move the belongings of a homeless man who was living on the corner of Canal Street and Forsyth Street in Chinatown, NYC on Aug. 2, 2022

Adams hit back and accused Abbott of using migrants as 'political pawns.'

'@GregAbbott_TX used innocent people as political pawns to manufacture a crisis. New Yorkers are stepping up to fix it  thats our citys values,' Adams tweeted. 'But we need the federal governments help  money, technical assistance and more.

'Unlike Governor Abbott, New York City will always do our part, and I thank the NGOs, City workers and every day New Yorkers who have proven that today.'

Adams has been highly critical of Abbott and his bussing move, calling it 'anti-American.'

However, the NYC leader also noted of the Biden Administration: 'It appears that individuals are being sent by the federal government.'
A 'boss of bosses' of the Los Angeles-based Crips gang who began ascending the ranks when he was six years old has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison.

Paul 'Lil Doc' Wallace, 56, was sentenced for a racketeering conspiracy, which included the 2014 murder of a rival gang member shot dead while he was washing his car.

Wallace has been in prison since 2020.

His supporters, some of whom testified in his defense, argued that Wallace was reformed and had renounced violence. They said he played an instrumental role in arranging a truce between his gang, the East Coast Crips, based on the east of LA's South Side, and the Mexican-American Florencia 13 gang, who the ECC had battled for control of drug trafficking in their district.

But prosecutors said he was unrepentant, boasting about killing people and arranging the stabbing of a rival inmate in 2021. They also pointed to YouTube clips in which he told of torturing dogs.

'As a 'triple OG,' a 'big homie,' and the 'boss of bosses,' defendant could order violence and commit violence with impunity,' said Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Chemerinsky, deputy chief of the Los Angeles office's Violent and Organized Crime Section.

'And this is exactly what he did.'

Paul 'Lil Doc' Wallace, 56, was sentenced to 35 years in prison by a LA judge on Friday. Wallace has been in prison since 2020

Pastor Shep Crawford and LA CAN founder Pete White address the crowd at The Help Give Care Foundation in June 2019. Crawford appealed to the judge on Wallace's behalf during sentencing, saying Wallace was a reformed character who worked for the good of the community - but prosecutors said he was unrepentant and a skilled liar

Wallace was born in Vivian, Louisiana - a remote rural town near the Texas border, 30 miles north of Shreveport, according to documents obtained by Law & Crime.

His mother found out their father was married and had another family, and so she and her seven children moved to Los Angeles.

Wallace's lawyers said the move came 'at a time when the Crips and Bloods were beginning to form and the crack epidemic was in its infancy.'

Wallace's mother worked long hours, with older siblings taking care of the younger - and Wallace increasingly drawn to the expanding gang life that dominated the poor areas of south central Los Angeles in the 1970s.

Aged six, he began hanging out with gang members - sometimes riding around on the handlebars of their bikes.

He was officially initiated into the East Coast Crips in the 1970s, joining one of the largest African-American gangs at the time, which was locked into a rivalry with the Bloods and their subsets.

Wallace was known as Lil' Doc Thone.

Aged 16 he was shot seven times, and then again in the same year, and was first convicted on firearms charges when he was 19.

Wallace is seen in his younger days. He was around gang members from the age of six, and was shot seven times aged 16 - and again later that year

He was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 1989 for a drive-by shooting, and went on to rack up multiple weapons charges and at least two more stints in prison.

He was convicted again in 1996 of another weapons possession charge while still in prison, and in 2016 was convicted of federal firearms offenses.

Wallace's second and final federal case was brought in July 2020 in an indictment describing him as 'the most influential member' of the East Coast Crips' 6Pacc subset.

He was charged with two murders - the 2003 shooting of Raymond Pickett, and the November 2014 shooting of Reginald Brown, 50, who was unarmed and washing his car when killed at 8:30am.

Wallace himself did not pull the trigger, but was ultimately responsible and the murder weapon, an AK-47-style assault rifle, was later found in Wallace's.

He was convicted of Brown's murder but not Pickett's at the end of an 11-day trial in April this year.

'Wallace maintained his control over the gang through violence and intimidation,' the Justice Department said at the time, announcing his conviction.

'Wallace murdered and conspired to commit murder to enhance the gang's violent reputation, to enhance his status within the gang, to retaliate against rivals, and to enforce discipline within the gang.

'As a gang leader, Wallace's other criminal conduct included selling drugs in ECC territory, extorting local businesses, presiding over robberies, and engaging in other acts of violence, including intimidation, assaults and shootings against the gang's rivals.'

His lawyers, Amy E. Jacks and Shaun Khojayan, called for 'a mitigated sentence' that considered the 10-year minimum for the gun charge, noting his lifelong trauma from a broken relationship with his father and being shot twice aged 16.

They also cited Wallace's 'instrumental' work ending 'a 20-year war' between his East Coast Crips and the Florencia 13 gang, as well as his anti-gang outreach with kids and through the organization Trucing the Gangs.

Wallace was running his own non-profit, United We Stand Up, dedicated to ending gang rivalries, when he was arrested in 2020. The group is now run by Trucing the Gangs' founder Pastor Shep Crawford.

Crawford spoke at Wallace's sentencing on Friday, as did Skipp Townsend, an ex-Bloods gangster who runs the gang intervention group Last Call.

'Mr Wallace is focused solely on bettering his life and that of his young family,' Jacks and Khojayan wrote in their memo.

'He had a difficult upbringing and trauma in his life that should be taken into account towards a mitigated sentence.'

Wallace is seen in prison in a video posted by the group United We Stand Up

But the prosecutor, Chemerinsky, said Wallace planned and oversaw the May 2021 stabbing of another inmate, and described him as 'undeterred and unrepentant'.

Chemerinsky said the trial evidence 'if anything understated his propensity for violence and depravity.'

'For example, in one recording, which was never played at trial, defendant bragged about torturing dogs, cutting off their limbs for enjoyment,' Chemerinsky wrote.

He referenced being in 'the pen' - believed to be a reference to prison - with a man named Evil because 'he was killing like a motherf***** like me.'

'I'm like, damn. They put in work. Got murders under they belt like a motherf*****. I got murders under mine,' Wallace said.

In the YouTube interview, Wallace says he participated in devil worship and sawed the legs off dogs and mutilated cats.

The prosecutor anticipated that Wallace's lawyers would try and argue he was reformed and a force for good in the community, and submitted another memo designed to 'preemptively respond to any claim defendant may make at sentencing that he is reformed or can be otherwise trusted to comply with the law.'

He wrote: 'Based on defendant's sentencing memorandum and arguments advanced previously, it appears defendant may attempt to argue that he has been a force for good in the community.

'Defendant has a long history of deception and manipulation, and these arguments should not be trusted.'

U.S. District Judge Andre Birotte agreed with Chemerinsky - rejecting his life sentence recommendation, but sentencing Wallace to an effective life sentence.

Wallace's lawyers told Law & Crime that they intend to appeal.
An Australian tourist has plunged to his death from a high-rise balcony in Thailand just an hour after checking into his hotel, local authorities have confirmed.

Police and paramedics were called to View Talay 6 in central Pattaya on Monday after the grim discovery of a man's body, 40, found sprawled in the parking lot with severe injuries from the suspected fall.

He was unable to be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities say the Adelaide man had checked into his room on the 17th floor of the hotel shortly before 7am, with his body found an hour later.

He had suffered broken limbs and a ruptured stomach wound.

An Australian tourist has plunged to his death at the View Talay 6 hotel in Pattaya, Thailand

Police are investigating but aren't treating the man's death as suspicious.

An examination of the man's room and belongings revealed no signs of a struggle, Newsflare reported.

'Searching inside his room, there was the deceased's passport and one suitcase inside the room,' Pattaya City Police Station Deputy Inspector General Amornthep Petchtim said.

Authorities have informed the Australian Embassy in Bangkok.

The Adelaide man couldn't be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene (pictured)

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed on Tuesday it's providing consular assistance to the family of an Australian man who tragically died from a fall in Pattaya.

'We send our deepest condolences to the family,' a spokesperson said.

'Owing to our privacy obligations and out of respect to the family, we are unable to provide further comment.'

View Talay 6 is a three-star hotel located in the heart of the city on Thailand's east coast and metres away from Central Pattaya Beach.

The latest tragedy comes just weeks after another Australian tourist Joshua James Connell, 19, died after he fell 15metres from his hotel's pool deck in Phuket in June.

If you need confidential support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyondblue on 1300 22 4636.
An 80-year-old woman has been banned from a YMCA pool after she demanded a transgender employee leave the women's locker room.

Julie Jaman was at the Mountain View pool in the City of Port Townsend in Washington State when she was made aware of the trans worker, identified as Clementine Adams, being in the changing room while she was taking a shower.

Jaman said she 'heard a man's voice' and immediately confronted the person.

'I saw a man in a woman's bathing suit watching maybe four or five little girls pulling down their suits in order to use the toilet,' Jaman told KIRO.

'I asked if he had a penis and he said it was none of my business. I told that man to 'get out right now!''

Julie Jaman, 80, has been a regular for 35 years at the Mountain View pool in the City of Port Townsend, Washington state but has now been banned after complaining about a trans worker

Clementine Adams, who identifies as female but has yet to undergo gender reassignment surgery, was working in the women's locker room when she was confronted by Jaman

Jaman was told that the presence of Pride flags and posters should have 'adequate enough in order to inform women what to expect'

Jaman then told another staffer at the pool - but instead of a sympathetic ear, she was told by YMCA aquatics manager Rowen DeLuna, 'You're discriminating and you can't use the pool anymore. I'm calling the police.'

She was told that she was 'banned from the pool forever' as DeLuna called law enforcement.

'She didn't ask me what the problem was, if I was okay, nothing about me,' Jaman explained. 'It's as if she was just waiting to pounce on me. It was just stunning.'

An incident report filed by the Port Townsend Police Department described Jaman having 'had an emotional response to a strange male being in the bathroom' near young girls.

Since her being banned from the pool, a protest was held outside the facility at which supporters ofJaman and trans activists both attended, pictured above

Notes from the police detail how Jaman was in the locker room, 'screaming' at an employee and 'refusing to leave.'

Jaman, who has been a member of the pool for 35 years claims she had a 'great relationship with swimmers in the pool.'

But bosses at the facility see it differently - and have explained Jaman's barring as the culmination of a series of incidents where she 'violated the facility's code of conduct' and was not solely due to this specific incident.

'Julie Jaman was permanently suspended from the Mountain View Pool due to her repeatedly violating our Code of Conduct, specifically, using disrespectful words or gestures toward YMCA staff or others; abusive, harassing and/or obscene language or gestures toward YMCA staff or others,' Erin Hawkins, communications manager for the Olympic Peninsula YMCA, said to Fox News.

'We will not tolerate bias, hatred, or discrimination that leads to the oppression of individuals or communities. We will ensure sustained and meaningful progress toward equity and human dignity for all,' a statement read.

Clementine Adams, who is a trans worker at the YMCA pool is saving up for two procedures: Feminizing Laryngoplasty (vocal surgery) and Sexual Reassignment Surgery (often called bottom surgery)

The Olympic Peninsula YMCA, of which the pool is pictured above, said Jamal's banning was the culmination of a series of 'incidents' where she has been disrespectful towards staff

Jaman said she did not feel comfortable being naked and showering with a person born as a male in the same room. She believes the facility should put up warning signs that the changing rooms are able to be used by trans people.

Olympic Peninsula YMCA CEO Wendy Bart outlined her reasons for banning Jaman.

'She told me that I was being discriminatory and not following the YMCA principles and values. I told her I respect all human beings, and I'm not following any ideology.

'I told her there were no signs posted to give women warning,' Jaman explained. 'I was told there were Pride posters posted all over and that it was assumed that was adequate to inform women what to expect.

'That's fine with me, except that they do not provide alternatives for women who choose not to be undressing in front of men,' Jaman explained.

'Our pool is a very old pool. We just have two shower rooms, dressing rooms, one for men, one for women.'

Bart claims Jaman told Adams, who has yet to undergo gender reassignment surgery but has launched a GoFundMe to raise funds, 'you're going to stick your f***ing penis in those little girls.' Jaman denies making such a statement.

'I am an 80-year-old woman and I do not talk like that,' she said to The Distance.

Since her being banned from the pool, a protest was held outside the facility at which supporters of Jaman and trans activists both attended.

Adams says she feels the need to undergo surgical procedures in order to 'feel like Im able to be myself.'

'I need assistance funding feminizing laryngoplasty (vocal surgery) and sexual reassignment surgery (often called bottom surgery). I dont have a long list of procedures I want to pursue right now, not that theres anything wrong with doing so. But I genuinely believe I need these two particular procedures to feel like Im able to be- myself, especially the vocal surgery,' she wrote.

'The amount of hate and accusations being sent my way is horrifying and it takes all of my energy to ignore it. It keeps intensifying every day and I dont see the end coming very soon. But hopefully Im wrong,' she added.
Jobs that don't require a university degree are typically paying six-figure salaries, new tax office data shows.

They are not the nation's top-paying jobs - after many years of studying and practising medicine, brain surgeons earn an average salary of $553,569.

That is more than Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on $549,250.

Plastic surgeons, meanwhile, are on typical salaries of $475,081, making more than lifesaving heart surgeons on $464,243 and judges on $423,945.

But it's still possible to earn an above-average salary with only a vocational qualification without the need to spend years at university.

New Australian Taxation Office data for 2019-20 showed railway station managers had average taxable incomes of $109,123.

This was significantly higher than the average tax salary of $63,882, covering both full and part-time workers.

Jobs that don't require a university degree are typically paying six-figure salaries, new tax office data shows. New Australian Taxation Office data for 2019-20 showed railway station managers had average taxable incomes of $109,123 (pictured is Strathfield train station in Sydney)

The federal government's Your Career website describes railway station management as 'stressful' and noted future demand for the job was in decline, especially with more professionals able to work from home.

Australia's best paid jobs NEUROSURGEON (BRAIN DOCTOR): $553,569 OPTHALMOLOGIST (EYE DOCTOR): $520,966 PLASTIC SURGEON: $475,081 CARDIOLOGIST (HEART SURGEON): $464,243 JUDGE: $423,945 DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGIST: $417,050 Advertisement

The Victorian government's Rail Academy site advised those wanting to become train station managers to prepare to put in 40 to 44 hours a week, including at night, weekends and public holidays.

Railway jobs in general are well-paid with signal operators getting $117,308 while train drivers make $118,873.

In another transport-related job, air traffic controllers had average salaries of $150,132, with this occupation requiring a Diploma of Aviation.

Helicopter pilots had average pay of $123,481, requiring attendance at a flight school to obtain a licence.

They were far from the only jobs that don't require a degree but were still better paid, on average, than a university lecturer on $110,857 and a barrister on $138,904.

Dredge operators working on marine construction projects had average salaries of $139,522.

Paper mill operators were paid $102,176 while crane operators on construction sites made $104,692.

Coal miners have average salaries of $124,550, compared with $150,442 for power plant operators running the coal-fired electricity generator.

Bank managers had average taxable salaries of $144,595, with this occupation requiring a Certificate IV in Financial Services.

Railway jobs are well-paid with signal operators getting $117,308 while train drivers (Queensland Rail operator, pictured) make $118,873

They make even more than dentists, on $131,773.

But with the big banks closing branches, as customers do more transactions online, there are fewer long-term career paths for bank managers.

Nonetheless, the SEEK jobs website on Tuesday had 657 vacancies for bank managers.

Other managers also earn six-figure salaries, with construction site managers on $117,043, which is comparable with school principals on $130,142 and advertising managers on $110,044.

Police inspectors are typically paid $120,310.

Those who fancy themselves as TV presenters or announcers can command an average taxable salary of $136,410 but the media industry is intensely competitive, with employment dependent on ratings and advertising revenue.

Police inspectors are typically paid $120,310 (pictured are recent police graduates at Goulburn in southern NSW)

In another transport-related job, air traffic controllers had average salaries of $150,132, with this occupation requiring a Diploma of Aviation (pictured are Qantas planes at Sydney airport)

Journalists usually need to have a communications degree from a university but on-air personalities have been employed after obtaining a diploma.

Australia's best paid bureaucrats National Broadband Network Co chief executive Stephen Rue: $2,647,974 Snowy Hydro chief executive Paul Broad: $2,249,978 Australia Post's former acting CEO Rodney Boys: $1,871,932 Australian Rail Track Corporation CEO Mark Campbell: $1,186,727 Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Philip Lowe: $1,076,029 Chief of the Defence Force Angus Campbell: $1,034,315 Defence Secretary Greg Moriarty: $963,428 Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary Glyn Davis: $944,829* Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy: $922,022 Home Affairs Secretary Mike Pezzullo: $912,422 Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Secretary Kathryn Campbell*: $874,288 Department of Energy, Science, Energy and Resources Secretary David Fredericks: $817,762 Prime Minister Anthony Albanese: $549,250 Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles: $433,063 Treasurer Jim Chalmers: $396,094 Foreign Minister Penny Wong: $369,688 Finance Minister Katy Gallagher: $364,406 Sources: Remuneration Tribunal, annual reports * Based on terms of their predecessor Advertisement

Television journalists had average taxable salaries of $107,918, with this role covering reporters in front of the camera and producers behind the scenes.

They often interview economists, who have average salaries of $147,358, but they need to have a degree in economics.

Those with analytical skills can also become accountants with managers of a practice having average salaries of $109,724.

Those in this field usually have a Bachelor of Accounting from university, followed by either an accreditation as a CPA - Certified Practising Accountant - or a Chartered Accountant.

Individual tax returns every year and quarterly business activity statements are the most common tasks for accountants but others in this field can specialise in insolvency, where they work out what a distressed company owes creditors.

In a related field auditors, who examine the financial records of companies, command average taxable incomes of $142,922.

Most people in this field have a university degree but to practise, they need to be a Certified Internal Auditor.

Those who are very good at mathematics can become an actuary, where they evaluate risk and calculate insurance premiums.

This specialty requires a university degree, but the average pay is $194,613.

The big money, however, is in finance broking with investment brokers having average taxable pay of $269,064 in a role where they help clients obtain finance.

Those in this role can obtain a Certificate IV in finance and mortgage broking.

Futures traders had an even higher average salary of $290,942 while stock brokers had even higher pay of $306,518.

Financial investment managers made more again, with average pay of $331,812.

They made even more than mining engineers on $185,568.

In the field of medicine, the suburban general practitioner typically made $175,731 a year.

But those who become specialists make considerably more, with neurosurgeons, who do brain operations, making $553,569.

This was the only profession where the average salary was more than Mr Albanese's $549,250 remuneration running the nation.

Other managers also earn six-figure salaries, with construction site managers (pictured is a building site worker in Sydney) on $117,043, which is comparable with school principals on $130,142 and advertising managers on $110,044

But opthalmologists, or eye doctors, were up there on $520,966.

Ear nose and throat surgeons, formally known as otorhinolaryngologists, typically earned $502,800.

Plastic surgeons weren't far behind on $475,081.

They made more than heart surgeons, also known as cardiologists, who typically earned $464,243 while orthopaedic surgeons, operating on the back, were paid $436,407.

Anaesthetists in the operating theatre had average salaries of $388,814.

Cancer doctors, known as oncologists, made $321,360.

Gastroenterologists who specialise in intestinal problems were typically paid $401,912.

Urologists, who specialise in men's reproductive health, made $442,091 compared with gynaecologists on $363,453.

Paediatricians on average earned $240,800 as doctors specialising in the health of children, compared with $252,691 for psychiatrists.

Bank managers had average taxable salaries of $144,595, with this occupation requiring a Certificate IV in Financial Services (pictured is a Commonwealth Bank branch in Sydney)
Owners are urged to be alert when charging electric bikes and scooters after a house went up in flames when a battery exploded.

The e-bike battery caught alight and exploded through the front windows of a home on Anzac Highway at Camden Park, Adelaide, around 10.30am on Monday.

A mother and daughter resident at the home narrowly escaped the ensuing blaze.

A witness told 9News, 'When I turned around there was all this smoke coming out of the house.'

An electric bike (pictured) battery caught alight and exploded through the front windows of a home on Anzac Highway at Camden Park in Adelaide on Monday morning. A mother and daughter narrowly escaped the ensuing blaze

Craig Attard of South Australia's Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) said that the mother and daughter tried to remove the bike from the house but were prevented from doing so when the flames quickly accelerated.

The pair luckily escaped from the home before it exploded shortly after.

By the time the MFS was able to get the blaze under control the inside of the home had already sustained significant damage, but the fire was prevented from spreading to surrounding properties.

Neighbours noticed the smoke coming from the home (pictured) on Monday morning

By the time the MFS was able to get the blaze under control the inside of the home at Camden Park, Adelaide had already sustained significant damage, but the fire was prevented from spreading to surrounding properties (pictured)

It said that there had been a growing number of e-batteries exploding and causing fires.

'An explosion like that with batteries exploding on the face with the skin can be horrific so they were very lucky,' Mr Attard said.

'Safety procedures are not catching up to that new technology, so just be wary of them.'

The battery explosion follows a similar incident in Sydney in late June when three teenagers miraculously rescued from a burning apartment caused by an e-bike battery catching fire.

The three girls cleverly barricaded themselves inside a bedroom with the door shut, an action which firefighters said saved their lives.

Fire crews were called to a flat in Lidcombe just after 1am on Sunday June 26, after plumes of smoke were seen rising from a building on John Street.

Dramatic footage from the operation shows firefighters walking through the smoky apartment calling out to see if anyone was still inside, before finding three girls flashing their phone torches inside a bedroom.

Incident Controller Tim Horder said the decision to close the door and hide inside 'is thought to have saved their lives'.

Three teenagers were rescued from an apartment in Sydney in June after an electric bike sparked the blaze

Video from the rescue shows firefighter Cem Dincer walking through the dark flat, calling out to see if anyone is still inside.

'There's a door here, I'm going to open it,' he says to his team in the footage, before walking into another room and calling out to the girls.

'Where are you?,' he asks, before the girls call out: 'I'm here' and start waving their phone torches.

The girls hid inside a bedroom with the door shut - a move that saved their lives according to firefighters at the scene

The teens rush to Mr Dincer, with one collapsing into his arms exhausted from breathing in the fumes.

'Alright, come with me, come with me,' he says as the firefighter marches the girls safely out the window and onto the roof of the shop below, with a team waiting to escort them down the ladder.

He told Nine News he was 'so happy' when he found the girls and paid credit to the actions they took to remain alive.

'They were scared, they were quite smart using their phone lights. I could see that straight away and just grabbed them,' Mr Dincer said.

The charging e-bike started the fire in a shop in Lidcombe, Sydney in June, with smoke filling the apartment above

After putting out the fire, Mr Dincer and his team re-entered the flat to ensure no one else was left inside, before finding the cause of the fire - a charging electric bike in the kitchen downstairs.

Incident Controller Horder said the girls had decided to shut the door after learning about fire safety in school.

'That did buy them time and stop smoke from filling the room,' he said.

Another man, 31, who was in the shop downstairs managed to escape before the fire got out of control.
Six in ten stroke patients face dangerously long waits to be seen in a specialist unit, a study found.

Just 38.3 per cent were admitted within the recommended four hours of arriving in A&E during the first three months of this year.

The figure was down ten percentage points on the same period in 2021.

The average wait was five hours, 17 minutes.

Data from the Sentinel Stroke National Audit Programme, analysed by Labour, covered England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

There are about 100,000 strokes a year in the UK, causing 34,000 deaths.

Just 38.3 per cent of stroke patients were admitted within the recommended four hours of arriving in A&E during the first three months of this year. Picture: file image

Charlotte Nicholls, at the Stroke Association, said: Getting to a stroke unit is vital for receiving appropriate, timely treatment.

In England the George Eliot Hospital in Birmingham had the highest median wait for a stroke patient to be admitted to a specialist unit at more than 36 hours, more than nine times the maximum recommended time.

It was followed by Warwick Hospital, which had a median waiting time of more than 26 hours, followed by Bedford Hospital and Pilgrim Hospital, in the East Midlands, which both had figures of more than 25 hours.

Wales had the highest overall figures, with the Princess Of Wales Hospital in Bridgend having a median waiting time of more than 41 hours.

After that was the Glan Clwyd District General Hospital in Denbighshire, which had a figure of more than 29 hours.

The data also showed that the average time between hospital arrival and thrombolysis, a crucial disability-saving treatment, was roughly the same as last year across all three nations at 52 minutes - two minutes faster than in 2021.

The stroke association recommends thrombolysis is given within four-and-a-half hours of stroke symptoms starting.

The average ambulance response time for category two calls, which includes suspected heart attacks and strokes, is 40 minutes in England - more than double the Governments 18-minute target, according to this years most recent figures.

Last year, Public Health England relaunched its Act FAST campaign, urging everyone to take immediate action on seeing any stroke symptoms to save lives.

It wrote: Early treatment not only saves lives but results in a greater chance of a better recovery, as well as a likely reduction in permanent disability from stroke.

Public Health England (PHE), supported by the Stroke Association, is today relaunching the Act FAST campaign reminding people of the symptoms of stroke and why urgently calling 999 is vital in saving lives.

Around 1.9 million nerve cells in the brain are lost every minute that a stroke is left untreated, which can result in slurred speech and paralysis. If left untreated, a stroke can result in permanent disability or death.
Filling up with petrol is 17 more costly on average than in February despite a barrel of oil being around the same price, new analysis shows.

The data, compiled by the FairFuelUK campaign group, sparked fresh calls for another cut in fuel duty.

According to the analysis, the Treasury is raking in 10million a day more in VAT receipts now than in August last year thanks to higher pump prices.

Despite a barrel of oil falling to 79.88 last week, petrol was 180.70p and diesel 190.70p, respectively 17.27 and 20.95 more expensive to fill the average family car than in February.

Filling up with petrol is 17 more costly on average than in February despite a barrel of oil being around the same price, new analysis shows

Tory MP Robert Halfon called for a pump price regulator, saying: This is literally highway robbery from the big oil companies.

The RAC said: We continue to believe here is clear evidence that major retailers are incredibly slow to pass on falling wholesale costs.

Former chancellor Rishi Sunak cut fuel duty by 5p a litre in March, but other European countries such as Germany have slashed it by up to 25p to help with the cost of living.

The analysis also led to fresh accusations of profiteering from big oil companies.

A report by the competition watchdog last month found that the margins of oil refineries, which turn crude into petrol and diesel, have more than tripled.

The Competition and Markets Authority is to further investigate the causes behind the rise.

Tory MP Robert Halfon has called for a pump price regulator, saying: This is literally highway robbery from the big oil companies'

Another Tory MP, Craig Mackinlay, said: We are no closer to solving the conundrum of why pump prices remain at record highs despite wholesale oil prices returning to previous levels seen earlier in the year and should also be seeing the supposed benefit of a 5p per litre cut in fuel duty.

While I can appreciate that general supply chain costs will have increased, the CMA has further work to do to understand and explain the situation.

Howard Cox, founder of FairFuelUK, said: Tory Government, stuck in its self-absorbing overlong leadership contest, is allowing the fuel supply chain to ruthlessly exploit UKs drivers completely unchecked. Pump prices have fallen after motorists were hit by a record hike in petrol prices in June as the average cost of a litre of unleaded rose by 16.6p to 191.4p.

Average diesel prices rose by 15.6p per litre, ending that month at 199.1p.

However, motoring groups say falls in the wholesale price of oil should be being passed on at the pumps quicker.
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet risks losing the support of the traditionally conservative base of the Liberal Party by choosing leading moderate and climate change crusader Matt Kean to be his deputy.

Mr Kean was elected unopposed as deputy Liberal leader on Tuesday after right-winger David Elliott pulled out of the race saying the Premier didn't want him.

The position had become vacant after Stuart Ayres resigned last week over allegations he was inappropriately involved in recruiting John Barilaro to a lucrative US trade role, allegations he denies.

As Treasurer and a leading moderate, Mr Kean may have seemed the obvious choice to complement Mr Perrottet who is from the right faction of the Liberals.

However, there is widespread dislike of Mr Kean throughout the party's largely conservative base, many of whom see the 40-year-old treasurer and MP for the upper north shore seat of Hornsby as too left wing.

Mr Kean is close to ex-PM Malcom Turnbull, who is also widely disliked by the party's base, and even tried to appoint him to the Net Zero Emissions and Clean Economy Board before a backbench revolt stopped the move.

Leading moderate and climate champion Matt Kean has been elected unopposed as Liberal deputy in NSW

In a media conference after his election, Mr Kean talked up his policies announced in the June budget including universal pre-kindergarten and said he would fight for a 'more prosperous future' for NSW residents.

Mr Perrottet said he was a 'strong member of the team' and insisted he was pleased to have him as deputy.

Asked if Mr Kean would put off conservative Liberal voters, the premier said: 'The Liberal party has two sides' and paraphrased former PM John Howard, saying: 'The Liberal party is at its best when it embraces its liberal and conservative traditions'.

Ahead of Mr Kean's election the Premier wanted to end internal division and avoid a ballot so effectively instructed Mr Elliott, who is from the centre-right, to pull out of the race.

Mr Kean's selection will be sold to the electorate as helping to appeal to the centre - particularly the climate conscious voters who helped turf out the Morrison government at the May federal election by electing teal independents in formerly safe Liberal seats.

The Treasurer was a big critic of the Morrison government on integrity and climate, declaring: 'Not having solutions to the big challenges our nation is facing, like climate change, is not acceptable.'

And he has even espoused a vision of 'new capitalism' about charting the 'environmental and social benefits of the decisions we take, not just the financial benefits'.

However, some fear his election as deputy liberal leader may turn off the die-hard Liberals on the right of the party, pushing them to minor right-wing parties such as One Nation.

Certainly NSW One Nation leader Mark Latham hopes this will be the case, describing Mr Kean as a 'vote loser' for the Liberals.

The Premier (right with Queensland leader Annastacia Palaszczuk) wanted to end internal division and avoid a ballot

'All the feedback I get is that Matt Kean is a massive vote loser for the Liberal Party. He's gone so far left, so far woke and so green,' Mr Latham told 2GB radio.

The veteran politician believes the Perrottet government will probably lose to Chris Minns' Labor in March.

'I think it's another sign of a dying government. They've lost sense of where the electorate has got to. They have lost a sense of their party voting base,' he said.

The radio station fielded calls from several Liberal voters saying they would never vote for the party with Mr Kean as deputy.

Earlier on Tuesday, Mr Elliott explained that Premier Perrottet had effectively told him to stand down from the deputy leadership race.

'He certainly didn't tell me to withdraw, but he certainly said that he didn't want to have a ballot. And I respect that,' the frontbencher told 2GB.

'I told him I respect his wish to pick his own deputy. I've had to eat some Humble Pie today.'

Under Treasurer Kean, NSW will spend an extra $38million on its electric car strategy this year, taking total investment to $633million in a bid to boost Australia's slow take-up of electric cars

As Treasurer, Mr Kean has championed NSW's green transition.

In the state Budget in June, he announced an extra $38million for NSW's electric car strategy, taking total investment to more than half a billion dollars.

The cash will be spent on rolling out more charging points in streets, apartment buildings and designated charging stations.

Mr Kean said rolling out more chargers will 'allow more EV drivers to benefit from their cheaper running costs and a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable road network.'

He added: 'You'll never be far from a charger on our major highways, in regional destinations, apartment buildings and on kerbsides in metropolitan areas with limited off-street parking.'
The switch to remote GP appointments meant more cancers were not diagnosed as early as they might have been, a study has found.

Doctors told Oxford University researchers that using video or phone calls prevent them from seeing the full picture.

There was a rise in those later presenting with advanced cancer, said the study in the British Journal of General Practice.

Some 81 per cent of appointments were in-person in October 2019, before Covid, down to 47 per cent in April 2020.

Researchers interviewed 15 GPs, a nurse and practice manager for their study on remote consultations published in the British Journal of General Practice.

Health charities and MPs have previously expressed concerns about the difficulties securing face-to-face appointments amid fears cancers were being missed.

The switch to remote GP appointments meant cancers weren't diagnosed earlier, a study has found. Doctors told Oxford University researchers it prevented them 'seeing the full picture' (picture: file image)

Now the new study appears to confirm these fears, saying: The first lockdown was described as providing time to make adjustments to allow remote and minimal-contact consultations but caused concerns over undetected cancers.

These concerns were realised in summer and autumn 2020 as the participants began to see higher rates of late-stage cancer presentation.

The researchers say many patients diagnosed with cancer present with non-specific symptoms making clinical intuition and monitoring particularly important.

They add: The greater use of technology during the consultation was thought to help with streamlining some processes.

But participants were also cautious about how easily vital information could be omitted and prevent the GP from seeing the full picture of the patients condition or make the use of clinical intuition difficult.

These results illustrate how the balance was tipped in favour of reducing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic to the detriment of the assessment of cancer risk.

Shaun Walsh, head of public affairs at Cancer Research UK, said: In response to the pandemic, the health system worked incredibly hard to implement remote consultations and help make sure that people continued to receive care, however they may not have worked in the same way for everyone.

We continue to encourage anyone to contact their GP if they notice any worrying changes to their health, and to keep trying if they have any difficulties getting through.

If you think you would find it easier to see a GP or health professional face to face, or have something you need to show the GP in person, do let the practice team know. Dr Gary Howsam, vice chair of the Royal College of GPs, said rapid cancer referrals by GPs are now 20 per cent higher than pre-pandemic levels.

He added: During the pandemic, GPs adopted new ways of working to protect our patients and staff from the virus and allow us to continue to deliver vital care in a safe way.

There was a drop in cancer referrals by GPs at the start of the pandemic, which research shows was mainly due to people following official guidance to stay at home.

Face to face consulting is a core part of general practice, but safe and appropriate care can be delivered remotely.
The mother-of-two was allegedly stabbed outside her Dover Heights home

A high-flying real estate agent has been dramatically arrested and charged after allegedly stabbing his a close family friend in the chest outside her multi million-dollar home.

Matthew Brian Ramsay, 46, was denied bail in Waverley Local Court on Tuesday after he allegedly knifed Helen Coulston when she answered the front door of her cliffside mansion in Dover Heights, in Sydney's east, at about 12.15pm on Monday.

Ms Coulston's husband Walt told Daily Mail Australia on Tuesday that Mr Ramsay was 'best man at my wedding and godfather to my children'.

He allegedly fled the scene in a white Audi A5, but footage showed the moment police caught up with him at a set of traffic lights in the middle Campbell Parade - along Sydney's famous Bondi Beach.

'Get down on the ground,' an officer yelled.

Ramsay slowly made his way to the ground, before a policeman pushed him onto the road.

He was charged with cause wounding/grievous bodily harm with intent to murder, and an apprehended violence order was taken out on Mrs Coulston's behalf.

The alleged knifeman will appear in court again on October 19.

Matthew Brian Ramsay (picturedd), 46, will appear in Waverley Local Court on Tuesday. He is a high-flying real estate agent

NSW Ambulance say paramedics managed to stabilise Mrs Coulston and she was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in a critical but stable condition

Ramsay worked in partner developments for a commercial real estate company until 12 months ago, and is friends with the alleged victim and her husband - who also works in real estate.

He was a well-respected figure in the real estate industry with more than 20 years' experience and, according to an article by his former employer, Ray White, 'has had a pivotal role in brokering some of Australia's highest profile deals'.

He was responsible for the sale of Channel 7's Pyrmont building for $180 million and Channel 9's Willoughby building for $147.5 million.

The 46-year-old also used be the director of the CBRE Residential Development Sites and lead a team which made about $1billion in sales per annum.

Builder Peter Haramis, 37, was on his lunch break nearby when he heard Ms Coulston screaming for help and rushed to her aid.

Ramsay was allegedly standing over Ms Coulston by the time Mr Haramis reached them at the top of the stairs - he recalled the man's stone-cold emotionless stare.

Pictured: Helen Coulston remains in a critical but stable condition. She is expected to make a full recovery

Matthew Brian Ramsay, 46, allegedly knifed Helen Coulston when she answered the front door of her cliffside Dover Heights home (pictured)

'She was just screaming: 'Help me! Help! He's gonna kill me!' he told NCA NewsWire.

'He sort of, he looked at me and he froze... so I thought to myself, this is it, I think I have to fight him here.

Despite her injuries, a brave Ms Coulston managed to grab the knife and threw it onto the footpath before rushing back inside and locked the door, Mr Haramis said.

'I picked up the knife ... he started walking towards me,' Mr Haramis recalled.

'He was just walking towards me saying: 'Give me the knife.'

'I said: 'No, you're not getting it.'

'Then the guy just calmly turns around and starts walking up the hill to his car.'

Peter Haramis (pictured right speaking to police) rushed to the aid of the mother-of-two

The tense standoff eventually ended when the alleged attacker jumped into a white Audi and sped off.

A quick-thinking Mr Haramis called the police and gave them the registration details.

The luxury car was then intercepted by heavily-armed police on Campbell Parade at Bondi Beach moments later and Ramsay was arrested and charged.

Mr Haramis and his construction team stayed with the woman and rendered aid until ambulance crew arrived at the scene.

A hero builder comes to the rescue of a woman who was stabbed in the chest with a kitchen knife in Dover Heights

Peter (left), a nearby builder managed to grab the knife from the street while the man who is alleged to be the offender demanded the weapon to be handed over

Johnny Spili, Mr Haramis' boss, told Daily Mail Australia on Monday he couldn't be more proud of his employee who was working on a house two doors down at the time of the attack.

'I am very proud of Peter's conduct and how he intervened. I am very happy he contained himself, stood his ground protected the lady and then he kept his cool, it could have turned out so much worse,' Mr Spili said.

Mr Spili said Peter had called him multiple times this afternoon since the attack and said he was shook up but he is 'a tough kid'

He said Mr Haramis told him the woman managed to grab the knife off the attacker and throw it away for Peter to then pick it up.

Mr Spili says Peter told him he 'stood his ground ready to go and told the attacker to come and get it'.

'I think he is doing well, he is just pretty shooken [shaken] up and is just taking some time to relax and process what happened,' Mr Spili said.

'He has called me a few times and he is in shock but he will be fine, he is a tough kid.'

When approached by the alleged attacker, Peter kept his cool moving backwards as the alleged offender closed in - before eventually the man calmly walked away, hopping in a white Audi and driving off

Police have arrested the 46-year-old man, his white Audi has been towed and will be forensically examined

Three ambulances and the helicopter ambulance were dispatched to the scene.

Paramedics landed at nearby Dudley Page Reserve and assessed Ms Coulston, before she was rushed to hospital.

Police closed part of Weonga Rd and established a crime scene.

It's understood the woman's husband attended the property a short time later.

Police have arrested the 46-year-old man, his white Audi has been towed and will be forensically examined.

NSW Ambulance Inspector Giles Buchanan said paramedics managed to stabilise the woman and she was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in a critical but stable condition.

'This was a very traumatic scene to arrive at with a significant, life threatening stab wound,' Mr Buchanan said.

'Paramedics administered IV fluids, stemmed the bleeding and provided pain relief to stabilise the patient.

'Stabbing wounds are generally confronting incidents and this patient has suffered a very serious injury.'
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A foul smell wafts from bags of dirty nappies and piles of rubbish at a house where a nine-month-old baby was found dead.

Police found the 'unresponsive' infant inside the home at Doonside in Sydney's west on Monday at about 10am after responding to a concern for welfare call. The child couldn't be revived.

Officers cordoned off the area as detectives spoke with the baby's parents.

On Tuesday Daily Mail Australia was met with a horrendous odour wafting from the home, with nappies on the footpath and overflowing bins dumped on top of a shopping trolley.

The yard is strewn with beer bottles, rubbish and broken toys.

Garbage spills out the front door on to the verandah of the house, from where the baby was carried out by paramedics the previous day.

Rubbish and bags of dirty nappies spill out of the squalid house where a nine-month-old baby was found dead on Monday

A dirty nappy sits atop a shopping trolley stuffed with bags of rubbish and a child's scooter outside the Doonside home

Neighbours said they believed the dead child was a baby boy.

The couple, believed to be in their late 20s or early 30s, were taken to Blacktown police station for questioning.

Neighbours said they had frequently heard loud arguments coming from two adults in the house, but the family of four children 'has not been out for the last week or two'.

Jessica, who lives behind the squalid residence, said she had reported two emaciated pet dogs she had seen in the back yard to the RSPCA, which had then removed the animals.

An orange bag seen at the suburban house appears to be stuffed full of soiled nappies

'I saw the dogs, but I barely saw the children. I feel so terrible I didn't notice anything,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'I heard them (the parents of the children) shouting at each other... fighting. I never saw the baby.'

Another neighbour, Karen, said she had seen 'all the kids out on the back patio laughing and playing' but that had been a few weeks ago, and the family had not been outside recently.

'The parents, I think they had some issues,' Karen said. 'It's just a tragedy. I don't know whether it was an accident or a natural death.

'I was devastated actually that someone so young won't continue on with their life.

Flowers left outside the house where neighbours said they heard loud arguments and one said they called the RSPCA to report two emaciated dogs which were later removed

Police outside the squalid house on Tuesday after detectives took away the parents of the dead child for questioning

'I have lived in this community for 33 years and you get the odd incident, but a year ago Jason was killed. It's heartbreaking that so many young lives are lost.'

Ms Nicholas was referring to 16-year-old Jason Galleghan who was found on August 4 last year with injuries to his head and chest at a house on Perigee Close, nearby the house where the nine-month-old was found dead.

Jason was found unresponsive and taken to Westmead Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Bags of rubbish are seen dumped in a shopping trolley in the front yard of the western Sydney home on Tuesday

A soiled nappy lies next to a garbage bin stuffed with dirty nappies outside the house where the baby was found dead on Monday

Five teenagers, including 19-year-old Kayla Dawson, have since been charged with Jason's alleged murder.

Another neighbour of the filthy house where the baby allegedly died, Carol-Ann, said on several occasions, particularly in the evening, she had heard the sound of arguing.

'I have heard yelling from inside when I was walking past,' she said.

No charges have been laid and forensic police are working to determine the baby's cause of death.
An Australian government employee got a little more than he bargained for when he received an incredibly enthusiastic airport pat-down from a security guard in the United States.

Brisbane man Dan Jarvis shared a video of the San Francisco Airport guard performing the invasive pat-down around his genitals on Friday before he flew to Salt Lake City in Utah.

Mr Jarvis, who is profoundly deaf, said the thorough pat-down was required because his cochlear implant and hearing aid prevents him from going through the airport's body scanner.

In the video, the airport security guard can be seen running his hands across Mr Jarvis' crotch.

'That's my penis,' Mr Jarvis said, before laughing at the person filming.

'Unbelievable,' the person behind the camera says.

Dan Jarvis (above) was shocked by a security guard's invasive pat-down when flying domestically in the US

'The pat-down was intense and I laughed because it was awkward and I didnt know how to respond,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'Ill always be compliant with any countrys regulations but in Australia we dont get touched around the genital areas.'

Commenters who saw the video were shocked by the security guard's intensity and joked the officer was having a bit too much fun with his job.

'How long have they been dating?,' one person wrote.

Mr Jarvis said he was shocked by the x-rated security measure because 'in Australia we dont get touched around the genital areas'

'I dont feel like this should be legal,' a second said.

'These full service flights are getting wild,' a third wrote.

Others however said Mr Jarvis should complain.

'This is absolutely unprofessional and not in his job description. This is super invasive. Im so sorry this happened,' one wrote.

'Are you OK though for real? Because this seems super invasive,' a second said.

'Umm please tell me you filed a complaint?' a third added.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted San Francisco Airport for comment.

Mr Jarvis (above) is an employee for Queensland's Department of Development and recently shared how he managed to work from home despite being profoundly deaf

Mr Jarvis, who works for Queensland's Department of Development as a Principal HR consultant, recently reflected on how he worked from home during the Covid pandemic.

In the interview, Mr Jarvis said he was 'working smarter, not harder' by using communication tools during his work-from-home days.

'I've worked with my employer to find solutions that mean my deafness is not a barrier,' he said.
A meat cleaver has been seized from the suburban house where a 49-year-old man allegedly stabbed to death his girlfriend and her son - as detectives admit they are baffled by the timeline of events.

WeiFeng Huang was charged with two counts of murder after police found him and the bodies of Jifeng Liu, known as Eileen, 47, and her son Wenhao 'Sam' Du, in his early 20s, in an upstairs bedroom of a Brisbane home at about 9:30am on Monday.

Police said attending officers witnessed 'large amounts of blood' at the scene of the 'frenzied attack' at Coolidge Court, Stretton, an affluent suburb in the city's south.

Detectives have been left mystified by the 49-year-old's movements in the hours after the alleged attack, which police believe occurred early on Monday morning.

It is believed Huang left the home in a silver SUV at 4.22am and was gone for about half an hour, before returning and calling for help several hours later, police said.

Authorities believe the accused was in a relationship 'for some months' with Jifeng, and all three lived at the Stretton residence.

Jifeng Liu (pictured), known as Eileen, 47, (left) and her son Sam, (right) in his early 20s were found dead inside a home in Brisbane's south on Monday morning

Police said attending officers witnessed 'large amounts of blood' at the scene of the 'frenzied' attack at Coolidge Court, Stretton, in Brisbane's south (pictured, forensics at the scene)

Authorities believe the accused was in a relationship 'for some months' with Jifeng, and all three lived at the Stretton residence (pictured, a mourner near the home on Tuesday)

Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham said there was evidence the accused changed his clothes at some point and attempted to wash himself.

'I believe that there are cuts to his arm and in particular to his leg,' he told reporters during a press conference on Tuesday.

'There's also evidence that it would appear he has changed clothes at some point as well and left in the vehicle so we believe he was injured at that point.

'There is some evidence that he's attempted to wash himself and blood from his body and has changed into another set of clothes.'

He added the victims had been dressed in 'night attire' which fit with a police theory the alleged attack occurred as early as Monday morning.

A woman was seen being comforted at the crime scene on Tuesday as a team of forensic officers returned to scour the suburban Brisbane home for clues

A 49-year-old man was arrested on Monday over the alleged 'frenzied attack' at the residence (pictured, a black office chair on the driveway of the home on Tuesday)

Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham (pictured on Tuesday) said there was evidence Huang had changed his clothes and attempted to wash himself

'We also believe that one of the victims might have had phone contact with a number of friends and family just prior to the homicides occurring,' he said.

'The exact nature of those phone calls and from whats been said is a subject of investigation today.'

Two weapons located by police have been identified as a long-handled kitchen knife and a meat cleaver.

Det Supt Massingham said police were still piecing together the exact movements of the silver SUV and asked for the public's assistance.

Two weapons located by police at the home have been identified as a long-handled kitchen knife and a meat cleaver (pictured, forensic officers at the scene)

A woman understood to be a friend of Sam's appeared emotional at the scene on Tuesday

'We do call upon people, delivery drivers, couriers, people going to work early, that may have seen that vehicle in the vicinity of this address during that 31-minute period to contact Crimestoppers,' he said.

Det Supt Massingham said police have never been called to the home for domestic violence matters and there were no domestic violence orders in place.

Huang, who speaks Cantonese, raised the alarm by calling triple zero and telling authorities he needed assistance at about 9.40am on Monday and unlocked the front door of the home when officers arrived.

The 49-year-old underwent surgery at Brisbane's Princess Alexandria Hospital overnight after suffering serious cuts to his arms and legs - which police believe were sustained in the alleged 'frenzied attack'.

Two weapons located by police have been identified as a long-handled kitchen knife and a meat cleaver (pictured, forensic officers at the home on Tuesday)

Det Supt Massingham (pictured during a press conference on Tuesday) said police have never been called to the home for domestic violence matters and there were no orders in place

Huang appeared briefly in Brisbane Magistrates Court via telephone from his hospital bed where he remains under police guard.

No application for bail was recorded with the matter adjourned to September 19.

The alleged victims have relatives overseas and police have been working with the Chinese community to 'piece together the complex matter'.

'We are liaising with our colleagues overseas to provide timely advice to friends and family during this difficult time,' Det Supt Massingham said.

An autopsy for the female victim will be carried out on Tuesday while her son's autopsy will be done in coming days.

Huang remains in hospital under police guard and briefly appeared in Brisbane's Magistrates Court on Tuesday (pictured, police outside the home)

The scene at the affluent home in Coolidge Court, Stretton, in the city's south remained cordoned off on Monday night (pictured, an office chair on the driveway on Tuesday)

The scene has been described as 'confronting' with officers finding the stairs of the two-storey property covered in a 'large amount of blood'.

Detectives were seen taking two mobile phone, sealed in plastic evidence bags from the home late on Monday afternoon which remained cordoned-off overnight.

A team of forensic officers returned to the home on Tuesday and were seen taking photos and marking various spots around the suburban property.

A black office chair was seen outside the garage on the driveway of the home.

Police have confirmed the accused was the person who called triple-0 and let officers inside the home on Monday morning (pictured, forensics at the scene on Tuesday)

Forensic officers returned to the home on Tuesday morning and were seen taking photos and marking various spots around the property (pictured)

Detectives were seen taking two mobile phone, sealed in plastic evidence bags from the home late on Monday afternoon (pictured, a black office chair on the home's driveway on Tuesday)

The victims are yet to be formally identified.

A Cantonese interpreter was used during communications with Huang who was treated in hospital for serious cuts to his arms and lower legs, police said.

'There were some language difficulties with the interpretation of what he was saying, an interpreter was used by the triple zero service,' Det Supt Massingham said.

'He has exercised his right to silence and has requested the presence of a solicitor.

'It's still very early days in the investigation and it's important that we keep an open mind. There's been no information from neighbours to indicate that anything has been heard at this stage.'

A stylish brick archway at the home sits in-between a large living room and the main hallway

Pictured: An upstairs bedroom at the house where the man and woman where killed

The in the affluent suburb property features a pristine swimming pool in the backyard

Det Supt Massingham on Monday told reporters there were CCTV cameras at the front of the home, which are yet to be reviewed.

'The scene was confronting and has been described as an (alleged) frenzied attack on the two deceased persons,' Det Supt Massingham told reporters.

A major crime scene was set up as officers cordoned off the quiet cul-de-sac and knocked on the doors of neighbours, with the street remaining under a heavy police presence on Monday afternoon.

'So our forensic officers have been in on a couple of occasions now. The scene is quite traumatic in terms of a large amount of blood that is present,' Det Supt Massingham said.

Images of the property where the grisly scene played out reveal an affluent house with an interior hallway, upstairs bedroom and backyard with a swimming pool.

The photos obtained by Daily Mail Australia also shows an open plan living area with a spacious modern kitchen, four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a double garage for up to six vehicles.

Shocked neighbours told the Courier Mail a man, woman and boy lived at the house. They were described as 'lovely people who mainly kept to themselves'.

'Recently I haven't seen them too much but normally they are out in the yard,' one man said.

'I think the boy just got his licence not that long ago.

'You don't think this kind of thing will happen around you but obviously it has.'

Pictured: The affluent 'President's Estate' home where Jifeng Liu and her son Sam reportedly resided

Another told the ABC: 'They kept to themselves, if they were going up the street you'd just wave, say hi and that was about it.'

Another local said said he heard a dog constantly barking on Sunday night.

'In the morning it was very quiet until the police got here, the only thing we could recall was a dog barking and going crazy last night before the other dogs on the street started barking too,' he said.

'I have never heard any real noise or anything from that end of the street, it's usually very quiet so it's very scary and shocking.'

The property last sold for $760,000 four years ago, according to online data.

The median price for homes in Stretton is more than $900,000 and is home to a population of 4,334, according to the 2016 Census.

The average weekly household income for the suburb is $1,843, well above the national median of $1,234.
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At least eight people have died in and around Seoul after torrential rain knocked out power, caused landslides and left roads and subways submerged, according to South Korean authorities.

The southern part of the national capital received more than 100mm (3.9 inches) of rain per hour on late Monday, with some parts of the city hit with 141.5mm, the heaviest rainfall in decades, according to Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA).

The accumulated rainfall in Seoul since midnight Monday stood at 451mm as of 2pm Tuesday, with more forecast.

President Yoon Suk-yeol this morning visited a semi-basement apartment where three family members - two sisters in their 40s and one of their 13-year-old daughters - drowned last night after swift moving flood waters filled the space and left them unable to escape.

The dangers of such underground flats, called banjiha, were famously depicted in a flooding scene in the 2020 Oscar-winning film 'Parasite'.

Sun-woo, who lived in the flat above the family, told the BBC: 'I feel devastated about this tragedy. If I'd come home earlier perhaps, I could have saved them. I have a lot of regrets.'

He said the family who had died had lived there for 10 years, and that the older sister had learning difficulties.

President Yoon meanwhile told the area's residents he would try to ensure their lives returned to normal as quickly as possible, and he instructed officials to look at measures to better ensure housing safety, according to a statement from his office.

The torrential rain forced hundreds to abandon their cars and sent floods sweeping through several neighbourhoods, demolishing businesses and ground floor houses.

A man stands among vehicles abandoned in flooded area during heavy rain in Seoul, South Korea, August 8, 2022

People wade alongside submerged cars in a street during heavy rainfall in the Gangnam district of Seoul on August 8, 2022

A sea of cars are left abandoned in the street following the heavy flooding which ravaged neighbourhoods of the South Korean capital

Subway stations and major roads were under water in the South Korean capital Seoul after record-breaking rains caused severe flooding, with at least eight people dead and seven more missing, officials said. A Tesla is pictured damaged following the floods

A vehicle sits damaged on a road after floating in heavy rainfall in Seoul, South Korea, Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022

Kim Sun-ok cleans up debris from her restaurant damaged by flood after torrential rain at a traditional market in Seoul, South Korea, August 9, 2022

Vehicles are abandoned in flooded area during heavy rain in Seoul, South Korea, August 8, 2022

People cautiously walk on a damaged road near a subway station in Seoul, South Korea, 09 August 2022. The heaviest rainfall in 80 years, over 100 millimeters per hour, battered Seoul and surrounding areas the previous night

South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo (C, front) inspects Guryong Village in Seoul's Gangnam Ward, South Korea, 09 August 2022, after about 100 residents in the village were evacuated

A woman walks next a damaged vehicle on a road amid heavy rainfall of over 100 millimeters per hour, the heaviest in 80 years, in Seoul

People walk across a street during heavy rainfall in the Gangbuk district of Seoul on August 8, 2022

At least five people had died in Seoul and three others in the neighbouring Gyeonggi Province by early Tuesday, the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters said.

Four, including the three family members, had died after being drowned in flooded buildings, one was believed to have been electrocuted, another person was found under the wreckage of a bus stop, and the others two died in a landslide, it said.

At least nine people were injured, while seven were missing.

In the glitzy, dense Gangnam district, some buildings and stores were flooded and were without power, while cars, buses and subway stations were submerged, leaving people stranded.

Lim Na-kyung, a 31-year-old office worker, recounted her fears of Monday evening, saying the situation reminded her of a scene from the 1997 film 'Titanic'.

'I had to keep going higher and higher because the building was submerging at a fast pace... I couldn't believe that I was trapped in building with 40 other people in the middle of Gangnam district,' said the mother of two, who eventually had to spend the night at a Pilates centre on the fourth floor.

Data showed at least 765 facilities had been damaged. About 52 highways and roads have been blocked.

About 391 people were displaced in the greater Seoul area, most of whom had to stay at local schools and gyms.

A further 399 had temporarily moved to community centres and schools, according to the data.

Men stand among vehicles abandoned in flooded area during heavy rain in Seoul, South Korea, August 8, 2022

Vehicles get partly submerged at a flooded parking lot during heavy rain in Seoul

Cars damaged by flood water are seen on the street after heavy rainfall at Gangnam district in Seoul on August 9, 2022

A shack damaged by torrential rain of the previous day is seen at a shanty area in Seoul, South Korea, August 9, 2022

Several communities in the capital are reeling from the damage with hundreds displaced from their homes

People clean up debris at a traditional market damaged by flood after torrential rain

A part of a main road near the Han River is flooded due to heavy rain in Seoul, South Korea, Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022. Some of the heaviest rain in decades swamped South Korea's capital region, turning Seoul's streets into car-clogged rivers and sending floods cascading into subway stations

The headquarters raised the crisis alert to the highest and requested organisations adjust their working hours.

The KMA issued heavy rain warnings across the capital and the metropolitan area of 26 million as well parts of Gangwon and Chungcheong Province.

The KMA expects heavy rainfall for the central part of the country to continue until at least Wednesday.

While South Korea often experiences heavy rains in summer, 'such sharp increase in precipitation and frequent torrential rains cannot be explained without the big trend of climate change,' said a KMA official who spoke in condition of anonymity.

'This phenomenon is seen occurring more often due to climate change that has resulted in a prolonged summer.'
Democrats and their supporters have been both celebrating and poking fun at the FBI's decision to raid former US president Donald Trump's Mar-A-Lago residence in Florida on Monday.

The FBI did not provide any comments on what the search might be for, nor did Trump give any indication of why federal agents were at his home.

But as far as Democrats were concerned, no further information was needed as to why the principal federal law enforcement agency of the country was in attendance.

Michael Cohen, who served as an attorney for Trump from 2006 to 2018 and who went to prison after admitting he covered up Trump's 'dirty deeds' led the chorus of approval, tweeting a photo of himself sitting in his car, grinning from ear to ear.

Democratic Twitter users appeared delighted Mar-a-Lago was being raided by the FBI Monday, led by Trump's former attorney Michael Cohen

After Mar A Lago was raided by the FBI, Donald Trump is seen leaving Trump Tower in New York City escorted by his Secret service and NYPD detail

Cohen, who was jailed for three years after pleading guilty to lying to the Senate Intelligence Committee and House Intelligence Committee in 2017 over a proposed Trump Tower Moscow deal, described the raid as a 'Karma Boomerang'.

'The look on your face when you learn that the FBI just raided Mar-a-Lago and TFG is s******g a brick!!! #KarmaBoomerang', he wrote together with a picture of him beaming.

'A belated Happy Mar-a-Lago Search and Seizure Day to all who celebrate!' wrote George Conway, the husband of Kellyanne Conway, who served as Senior Counselor to Trump from 2017 to 2020.

Multiple US media outlets cited sources close to the investigation as saying that agents were conducting a court-authorized search related to the potential mishandling of classified documents that had been sent to Mar-a-Lago.

Filmmaker and actor Rob Reiner appeared to be delighted with the news. 'FBI raids Mar-a-Lago. Game on!!!' he tweeted.

'Fed's Raided Mar-A-Lago. Oh s**t.... S**t's poppin off,' tweeted actor and rapper Ice T.

'The FBI raiding Mar-a-Lago on August 8th, the anniversary of Richard Nixon announcing hes resigning, has a certain poetry to it.' tweeted historian Garrett M. Graff.

Other users also made some interesting points regarding who may have sanctioned the raid

Democratic strategist Adam Parkhomenko imagined Trump would be none too pleased about the raid and made a joke relating to the former president's love of fast food.

'The walls of mar-a-lago are getting a new coat of Heinz ketchup right now,' he wrote.

'Donald Trump fired James Comey so that Christopher Wray could execute a search warrant on Mar-a-Lago. America,' he later added.

'Mar-a-Lago is now officially recognized for what it is: a crime scene,' suggested lawyer Tristan Snell.

Comic writer Bess Kalb made reference to government work finally being done at Trump's Florida residence.

'Make no mistake: This raid is historic in that for the first time there are people at Mar-a-Lago actually doing work for the federal government,' Kalb stated.

John Scott-Railton, a Senior Researcher at the Centre for Investigative Journalism in Toronto shared his sentiments by mocking some of Trump's own words.

'The raid of Mar-a-Lago was a beautiful raid. Maybe the greatest. A very big-league raid. It's True!'

Representative Ted Lieu, a California Democrat, attempted to provide analysis on why the raid was taking place.

'Trump shows a profound ignorance of the law. Democrats did not break into his home. This is not prosecutorial misconduct because prosecutors dont approve warrants. This search occurred because a federal judge found probable cause that evidence of a crime would be at Mar-a-Lago.
Pictured: Matthew Brian Ramsay, who allegedly stabbed Helen Coulston, the wife of his one-time best friend

A high-flying real estate agent is accused of wrestling on all fours with the wife of his best mate over a 'ten inch' knife he had just allegedly stabbed her with outside a Sydney mansion.

Sydney couple Helen and Walt Coulston were good friends with Matthew Brian Ramsay, 46, for more than 15 years. He was best man at their wedding and is godfather to their two children.

Ramsay and Mr Coulston travelled together in their 20s, partying with friends in Greece and exchanging crude jokes on Facebook.

But Ramsay, a one-time hotshot real estate agent, was charged on Monday with stabbing Mrs Coulston with intent to murder when she answered the door of her home in Dover Heights at about 12.15pm.

New details can be revealed about the moment the alleged stabbing unfolded - with builder Peter Haramis, who ran to help, alleging to Daily Mail Australia that the 46-year-old mother was on 'all fours' with Ramsay as they allegedly fought for the knife.

According to his account - which is yet to be tested in court - Mr Haramis claimed she managed to toss the blade to the tradesman 'He looked at me for a second and froze and that gave her the chance to get the knife.

'She threw the knife past me and I got it... I said (to the alleged attacker), "you're not getting the knife".'

Helen Coulston was allegedly stabbed in the chest outside her Dover Heights home on Monday

Pictured: Matthew Ramsay (second man from the left) when he was best man at Helen and Walt Couston's wedding

Ramsay (pictured left) and Coulston (centre) had a long-standing friendship spanning at east 15 years

Ramsay was denied bail in Waverley Local Court on Tuesday and did not appear at court. Ramsay has also been charged with shoplifting $31 worth of snacks and flavoured milk from a petrol station.

Meanwhile, as Mrs Coulston recovers in hospital, Mr Coulston could be seen inside his lavish home when visitors arrived on Tuesday afternoon.

Speaking outside the house, Mr Coulston noted Ramsay was the 'best man at my wedding and godfather to my children'.

Neighbours said Ramsay's car was seen frequently in the street where the Coulstons and their children have been renting the house for several months.

The family had only been living in the $4000-per-week rental for a few months before the alleged attack took place.

According to Ramsay's LinkedIn profile, he works in partner development for commercial real estate company, Stanton Hillier Parker.

Her husband, Walt Coulston, is seen at the couple's luxurious Dover Heights mansion on Tuesday afternoon

Coulston and Ramsay would holiday together with friends when they were younger (a group photo from one of their trips)

A hero builder, Peter Haramis (pictured), who ran to help alleged to Daily Mail Australia the 46-year-old mother was on 'all fours' when he arrived on the scene

But a spokeswoman for the company said he hasn't worked there for at least 12 months and he had been repeatedly asked to amend his profile to reflect that.

'We've asked LinkedIn to remove it because it's not accurate and he doesn't work for us anymore,' the woman said.

Mr Haramis told Daily Mail Australia that Ramsay 'looked all ragged, with scruffy hair and an out of control beard' on Monday afternoon.

'He's a big bloke and he's wearing a dark grey tracksuit and he's put on weight since that photo,' Mr Haramis said, referring to professional photos of Mr Ramsay in a suit.

In his witness account, shared with police, the builder alleged the knife at the centre of the incident was about 'ten inches-long' (25cm), and that it was his interference that potentially saved Mrs Coulston.

Matthew Brian Ramsay, 46, allegedly stabbed Helen Coulston when she answered the front door of her cliffside Dover Heights home (pictured)

Matthew Brian Ramsay (pictured), 46, appeared in Waverley Local Court on Tuesday. He is a high-flying real estate agent

Next door neighbour, Marina, said she was parked in her car in the driveway when she heard the commotion.

Mrs Coulston was covered in blood and kept putting her hand on the wound, she said.

Ramsay allegedly fled the scene, but footage showed the moment police caught up with him at a set of traffic lights in the middle Campbell Parade at Bondi Beach.

Police have arrested the 46-year-old man, his white Audi has been towed and will be forensically examined

'Get down on the ground,' an officer yelled.

Ramsay slowly made his way to the ground, before a policeman pushed him onto the road, footage showed.

Ramsay was a well-respected figure in the real estate industry with more than 20 years' experience and, according to an article by his former employer, Ray White, 'has had a pivotal role in brokering some of Australia's highest profile deals'.

He was responsible for the sale of Channel Seven's Pyrmont building for $180 million and Channel Nine's iconic Willoughby headquarters for $147.5 million.

The 46-year-old also used be the director of the CBRE Residential Development Sites and lead a team which made about $1billion in sales per annum.

Ramsay's case will return to court on October 19.
A young father is 'distraught' over the disappearance of his fiancee and two young children who vanished during a big move across three states as the desperate search for his family continues.

Darian Aspinall, 27, her two children Winter Bellamy, two, and Koda Bellamy, four, and their grandmother, 50-year-old Leah Gooding, were travelling through outback NSW en route to starting a new life in Adelaide when they vanished without a trace.

Police ramped up efforts by launching an extensive land search in far-west NSW with the help of their Queensland and South Australia counterparts.

It's been 48 hours since the family were last seen leaving Noccundra Hotel on Warry Gate Road in south-west Queensland between 12.30pm and 3pm on Sunday.

Ms Aspinall's fiance Linny Bellamy had been driving several hours behind the family in a removalist truck packed with furniture.

The couple planned to cross the border and meet up on Sunday night in Packsaddle, a remote township five-and-a half hours away in far-west NSW.

The hunt continues for Koda Bellamy, four and his sister Winter 2, after they vanished on a road trip with their mum and grandmother during a move to Adelaide across three states

But the two women and Mr Bellamy's children never made it to Packsaddle.

Mr Bellamy raised the alarm and reported the family missing to police after frantic attempts to contact them were unsuccessful.

It's understood the family took a dirt road while Mr Bellamy stayed on a sealed road, according to Noccundra Hotel staff.

Ms Aspinall is a devoted mum with her social media proudly filled with photos and selfies with Koda and Winter.

She announced on Facebook nine months ago that she was engaged to her partner of six years Mr Bellamy.

The family had spent the last year living in Cairns in far north Queensland but recently decided to return to Adelaide, where the couple were originally from.

The proud parents recently celebrated Winter's second birthday last month with videos and photos of a family outing to an aquarium in Cairns.

Mr Bellamy recently paid loving tribute to his fiancee in a series of posts.

'Happy mother's day to this amazing specimen! We love you so much,' he wrote in May.

Several weeks earlier he posted: 'Six years of life with future Mrs Bellamy. Can't wait for many more.'

Linny Bellamy (right) is 'distraught' over the disappearance of his fiancee Darian Aspinall (left) and their two children. He had been travelling a few hours hours behind the family

The last 48 hours have been an anxious waiting game for Mr Bellamy and the rest of the family.

'Darian's fiance Linny was driving the moving truck, they got split up along the way and he hasn't seen them since,' relative Bree Jennings told the Daily Telegraph.

'He's very distraught  I mean, we all are. He's just waiting by the phone to hear some good news.'

Friends frantic with worry have turned to social media for help.

'Is there anybody out there looking for them ? I feel helpless just sitting here. Please bring my friend and her babies home safe,' one of Ms Aspinall's friends commented on the NSW Police Facebook page

Darian Aspinall (left) was travelling with her children Winter Bellamy, two, and Koda Bellamy, four, and their 50-year-old grandmother when the family vanished in the NSW outback

Noccundra Hotel employee Rachael George remembers the family stopping at the hotel around Sunday lunchtime before heading south on a dirt road.

'It's a wide road and pretty safe and you wouldn't expect to get lost on it although if you use google maps or those things it may make you take the wrong road,' she said.

She also remembers Mr Bellamy making a stop a few later hours before he continued along a sealed road.

On Tuesday, NSW Police launched a major land search across much of the state's far-west for the family believed to be travelling in a charcoal-coloured Hyundai Tucson with Queensland registration 729CV2.

The large-scale operation covers Tibooburra, Broken Hill, Wilcannia, Packsaddle and surrounding towns, with assistance from the Missing Persons Registry, Queensland and South Australia Police.

Police said the family left Noccundra Hotel on Warry Gate Road in south-west Queensland between 12.30pm and 3pm on Sunday (pictured, a map detailing their movements)

All four travellers have been described as Caucasian in appearance.

Darian has dark brown hair, tattoos on her right arm and wears glasses. The children have brown hair and blue eyes, police say.

A geo-targeted text message has been sent to locals in Packsaddle, Tibooburra, Broken Hill and surrounding areas in NSW's far west region.

Police said if residents receive a text message from +61 444 444 444 asking for assistance locating the family, it is not a scam.

Anyone who may have information is urged to contact Wilcannia Police Station on 8083 8099 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has suffered another huge blow as a former minister is suspended from the state parliament, adding to a mounting sense of chaos.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) found former minister John Sidoti engaged in 'serious corrupt conduct' over family-owned properties in Sydney.

The disgraced Mr Sidoti had moved from the Liberal Party to the crossbenches last month after ICAC's findings, but refused to resign from parliament.

The latest episode follows a horror period for the Liberal-National Coalition, which includes Mr Perrottet losing two ministers to scandals in a matter of days.

Mr Sidoti's suspension came a day after former deputy premier John Barilaro appeared at an inquiry into his controversial appointment to a plum $500,000 New York job, where he claimed he is 'the victim ... not the perpetrator'.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet's (pictured with his wife Helen) Liberal-National Coalition Government has been engulfed by chaos for months

Mr Sidoti was investigated amid allegations he lobbied local councillors to rezone blocks at Five Dock in Sydney's inner west, where his family owned property between 2013 and 2017.

Alister Henskens, Government leader in the lower house, moved a motion to suspend Mr Sidoti on Tuesday, saying it was necessary to 'protect and uphold the dignity' of the parliament.

The Drummoyne MP is suspended from the parliament through to November 25, or until further orders are made.

Mr Sidoti, a former Sport Minister, said he intends to fight the corruption watchdog's findings in the NSW Supreme Court

Mr Henskens said he wanted to keep his comments on the issue brief due to the possible court challenge.

Mr Sidoti became emotional in replying, saying he had been persecuted by Greens MP David Shoebridge and Labor MPs Penny Sharpe and Walt Secord during hearings known as budget estimates.

Those hearings led to Mr Sidoti, who has served as an MP for the past 12 years, being investigated by ICAC.

'These honourable members deliberately took pleasure in creating a fiasco knowing that there was no foundation of truth,' Mr Sidoti said.

Disgraced NSW MP John Sidoti is pictured leaving an Independent Commission Against Corruption inquiry into his family property developments in Sydney on Tuesday, April 20, 2021

He said his parents 'who came to Australia with absolutely nothing' had been subjected to a negative comments.

'I cannot express how heartbroken I've been to watch them be vilified in media by this process.'

The latest in the Sidoti saga followed a day after former deputy premier John Barilaro's appearance at an inquiry into his appointment to a plum $500,000 New York job.

Labor MPs suggested Mr Barilaro knew about former premier Gladys Berejiklian's resignation in advance because he was interviewed by ICAC in private on September 10, 2021.

Mr Barilaro said 'I will absolutely refute that disgusting slur and accusation'.

Former NSW deputy premier John Barilaro is pictured giving evidence during the inquiry into his appointment as Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner to the Americas at NSW Parliament House in Sydney on Monday, August 8, 2022

When he was then asked, 'Which part of it is disgusting?', he replied, 'Youre making me out to be corrupt.'

Mr Barilaro later said he was 'the victim ... not the perpetrator'.

Last Wednesday the Barilaro saga claimed the scalp of deputy Liberal leader Stuart Ayres, who resigned after a draft review of the scandal - where a senior public servant was promised a $500k job in New York, which was then given to Mr Barilaro.

The draft review found Mr Ayres may have breached the ministerial code of conduct and a formal investigation is now under way.

Mr Perrottet hinted that Mr Ayres had little choice but to resign, saying 'Very simply, I based my decision making on the information that I received'.

Former NSW Liberal Party deputy leader Stuart Ayres (right) is pictured with his partner, former Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne

Mr Ayres - the husband of former Foreign Minister Marise Payne - had previously insisted that he 'wasn't involved in this recruitment process (for the New York job)'.

'I was not involved in the selection panel. I wasn't engaged in the writing of any of those reports,' he said.

'That practice and that process entirely sits within the purview of the New South Wales public service and Investment New South Wales.'

But Mr Ayres' fate looked to have been sealed after he was skewered by 2GB radio host Ben Fordham.

'Let me just sum this up,' Fordham said to Mr Ayres. 'John Barilaro created the job in New York. It was offered to Jenny West and then taken away.

'John Barilaro took a proposal to cabinet allowing ministers to appoint the trade commissioners. He resigns from politics a few weeks later.

Radio 2GB host Ben Fordham skewered Liberal MP Stuart Ayres on air last week. My Ayres resigned the next morning

'You send him a text message with the job advertisement. An independent process decides he is not the best candidate. He gets the job anyway.

'Then his ranking as a candidate mysteriously changes to make him the best person for the job. You told parliament Jenny West was never a successful candidate.

'Then documents show up seeming to show otherwise. And you expect everyone to believe that youve done absolutely nothing wrong?'

Mr Ayres, who resigned the following morning, was the second NSW ministerial casualty in just four days.

Former NSW Liberal minister Eleni Petinos (pictured) was sacked by Premier Dominic Perrottet over bullying allegations

On the previous Sunday, Mr Perrottet sacked NSW Fair Trading Minister Eleni Petinos over bullying allegations.

Ms Petinos was accused of calling a staff member 'ret**ded' and 'stupid', which she strenuously denies.

Kiama MP Gareth Ward also resigned from the ministry and moved to the crossbench due to a police investigation into him.

In March, Ward was charged over allegations of sexual abuse against a man and a 17-year-old boy.
Linktree raised AUD$157million in March and is in the top 300 global websites

One of Australia's most successful start-ups will give employees it was forced to fire 11 weeks pay, mental health care and free computers - as it downsizes in an attempt to survive amid surging cost of living pressures.

Linktree CEO Alex Zaccaria announced the dramatic staff cuts in an emotional post to the company's blog on Tuesday morning.

The company, which has about 300 employees, is expected to axe 50, with its HR , design and marketing and talent acquisition teams the worst affected.

The cuts are across the company's Sydney and Los Angeles offices.

Linktree is one of the 300 most popular websites in the world with 1.2 billion monthly views. Celebrity subscribers such as Selena Gomez use the service to manage their social media and businesses.

Linktree CEO Alex Zaccaria (above) said the company would downsize its workforce by 17 per cent in an emotional blog post on Tuesday

However, all ex-employees will be offered incredibly generous leave packages including 11 weeks of pay, just under three months of health insurance, mental health support and free Apple laptops.

'All Linktree Macbooks will be gifted alongside all purchased work from home equipment regardless of tenure with the company,' Mr Zaccaria wrote.

When commenting on the company's growth in 2021, Mr Zaccaria said: 'I assumed the favourable economic environment would persist into 2022.'

'Instead, conditions changed faster than expected, and those assumptions I made were wrong.'

Linktree raised $AUD157million in March and is one of the world's 300 most popular websites

He said the company's 'next phase' required 'narrowing our focus on our long term strategy by reducing roles that are no longer aligned with our roadmap'.

Linktree credits itself on being a progressive company with a big focus on social relationships.

Mr Zaccaria said the company would host weekly meetings for the next four weeks where employees could ask about the downsizing as well as offering mental health days.

'Friday will be a company-wide mental health day at Linktree,' he said.

Employees let go during the mass reduction will be offered incredible support including 11 weeks of pay, physical and mental health care and free computers

'For a company like ours, so focused on culture and comradery, this will be difficult news. I dont expect anyone to be their normal selves.

'We will also be allocating you an additional mental health day that you can take at a time that suits you.'

All dismissed staff will also be given outplacement support as well as advertisement of availability by Mr Zaccaria on LinkedIn.

Linktree raised $AUD157million in March with major names, such as billionaire Afterpay co-founder Nick Molnar, backing the company.
A Nebraska woman and her 17-year-old daughter are facing felony charges after the mother allegedly helped her daughter abort, burn and bury her fetus.

Celeste Burgess was reportedly nearly six months pregnant when her mother, Jessica Burgess, helped her carry out an abortion.

The pair claimed Celeste, then 17, accidentally had a stillbirth while in the shower before they placed the fetus in a box, burned it and buried it on a property located north of Norfolk.

Jessica, 41, was hit with five felonies pertaining to the incident. Celeste, who is being tried as an adult, was charged with three. Both women have pleaded not guilty.

Tanner Barnhill, 22, was charged with helping the pair dispose of the fetus. He pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor and will be sentenced later this month.

Jessica Burgess, 41, (right) was charged with three felonies and two misdemeanors after helping her daughter perform an at-home abortion

Norfolk police launched an investigation into the Burgess family in April after receiving a tip that Celeste had miscarried and buried the body.

Detectives obtained a copy of the teen's medical records and determined she was 23 weeks pregnant at the time of the alleged incident, with an expected due date of July 3.

When officials interviewed Celeste, she claimed she had miscarried on April 22 sometime after midnight, according to an affidavit obtained by KMTV.

She told police she told her mother what happened, placed the fetus in a bag and then inside a box in the back of a cargo van.

Jessica and Celeste drove to a property north of Norfolk, allegedly belonging to Barnhill's parents, and buried the body. The affidavit does not specify when the burial happened, but notes Barnhill helped with the task.

On April 29, Barnhill showed investigators where the fetus was buried and told authorities that Jessica and Celeste had tried to burn it before burying it.

When officials exhumed the body, it showed signs of 'thermal injuries.'

Celeste Burgess, 17, claims she had a stillbirth in the bathroom of her family's Nebraska home on April 22. Investigators say she allegedly took an abortion pill at 23 weeks pregnant

During their investigation, officials also discovered Facebook messages between the mother-daughter duo in which they were discussing abortion pills. The messages revealed that Jessica advised her daughter on how to use the pills. Celeste reportedly stated that she couldn't wait to get the 'thing' out of her body

During their investigation, officials also discovered Facebook messages between the mother-daughter duo in which they were discussing abortion pills.

The messages - sent April 20, two days before the alleged stillbirth - revealed that Jessica advised her daughter on how to use the pills.

Celeste reportedly stated that she couldn't wait to get the 'thing' out of her body.

Jessica confirmed they would 'burn the evidence afterward.'

Both women were charged in June with removing, concealing or abandoning a dead human body -- a felony. They were also hit with misdemeanor charges of concealing the death of another person and false reporting.

A month later, the Madison County Attorney added two more felonies against Jessica: performing or attempting abortion at more than 20 weeks and performing an abortion as a non-licensed doctor.

Prosecutor Joseph Smith said it was the first time in his 32-year career with the county that he filed those charges.

'I don't think I've ever had a case like this,' he told The Lincoln Journal Star on Friday. 'Usually, abortions are performed in hospitals, and doctors are involved, and it's not the type of stuff that occurred in this case.'

Both women have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial.

Jessica was released from jail on June 27 after posting a $10,00 bond, NTV reported. She is scheduled to appear in court on September 2.

Celeste was released on July 21 after posting a $20,000 bond and is scheduled for court on August 29.

On April 29, Barnhill showed investigators where the fetus was buried and told authorities that Jessica and Celeste had tried to burn it before burying it. When officials exhumed the body, it showed signs of 'thermal injuries'

Nebraska currently allows abortions up to 20 weeks post-fertilization.

Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts had expressed interest in calling a special session to further restrict abortion access, saying he would support a near-total ban with no exceptions for rape or incest.

Nebraska currently allows abortions up to 20 weeks post-fertilization. Republican Gov. Pete Ricketts (pictured in 2017) considered calling a special session to further restrict abortion access, but on Monday said he lacked the votes to pass a 12-week abortion ban

But in a statement on Monday, the governor said only 30 state senators would support a ban on abortions past 12 weeks. The legislation requires 33 votes to pass.

Nebraska's state legislature is unicameral, meaning it only has one chamber, and is comprised of 32 Republicans and 17 Democrats.

'It is deeply saddening that only 30 Nebraska state senators are willing to come back to Lincoln this fall in order to protect innocent life,' Ricketts said.

'As Governor, I will continue doing whatever I can in my power to affirm the rights of pre-born babies and to support pregnant women, children, and families in need.'

Rickett's statement comes as several other Republican-led states have grappled in recent weeks with how far to go in restricting abortion access after the US Supreme Court in June overturned the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide.

Indiana on Friday became the first state to pass a new abortion ban since Roe's overturn. The state's ban prohibits all abortions except when the life of the mother is endangered, the fetus develops a fatal abnormality or the pregnancy results from rape or incest but has not advanced beyond 10 weeks of gestation.

West Virginia's legislature, also led by Republicans, is on the verge of passing a near-total abortion ban during a special session this summer. But lawmakers disagree over whether doctors who perform abortions outside narrow exceptions should face prison time.
Firefighters in Denver placed children onto their backs and shoulders as as part of a heroic rescue effort as parts of the Mile High City were deluged by floods.

The children were part of 29 people who were saved during Sunday evening's flooding in the city which occurred after almost three inches of rain fell in just a couple of hours.

Wading into chest-high water, the rescuers carried children, sometimes two at a time, out of the deep brown water and onto dry land.

Multiple children were helped from their minivan which suddenly broke down as it became stuck in an underpass at 38th and Blake Street.

Firefighters helped rescued several children, including a baby.

Several children were rescued from a submerged vehicle in the middle of a Denver highway, as flash flooding slammed the area on Sunday

Wading into chest-high water, the rescuers carried children, sometimes two at a time, out of the deep brown water and onto dry land

Witnesses watched on in awe as the firefighters walked into the cold water to save the children

Several children were saved from the waters. The firefighters then gave them pizza

The firefighters worked together to rescue the children, often carrying several at once

'They're sitting on top of their car just waiting to be rescued,' said Eli Espinoza to ABC News.

'The firefighters didn't hesitate. That's what the true hero is.'

One portion of the video shows a firefighter walking backwards out of the water with two children on his shoulders.

'Put them both on his shoulder,' Espinoza said. 'No hesitation, just walking back... And it was just like, natural instinct.'

A second firefighter was at the minivan rescuing a newborn.

Throughout it all, the rescuers helped to keep the children calm.

The firefighters raced into action after the rainfall fell over a period of just a few hours and carried children to safety

The firefighters worked together to rescue the children from the stricken vehicle, sometimes bringing them to safety two at a time

Once everyone had been rescued, the one of the fire crew members came to the group with pizza which had been in his car.

'He was like, 'We have dinner,'' Espinoza said. 'And it was just a funny little joke. And it had everyone smiling.'

'It's a demanding career to be in the fire service,' Lt. JD Chism with the Denver Fire Department. 'There's also a bit of adrenaline going when you're in that cold water, and you're asked to move those two kids out.'

'Sometimes... you're going to come across a child who's incredibly calm,' he said. 'And you're surprised by the situation. And other times, you're going to have a kid that's frantic. Anybody who's a parent, or who has spent a lot of time with children, knows: The calmer we can be when we're talking to them (and) the calmer we can be to distract them from the actual events that are taking place, then we can get them to a safer environment.'

Rescuers helped save a number of people from vehicles stuck on an Interstate

Drivers were stranded in their cars on the I-70 Interstate near Denver and had to be rescues

Rain and Thunderstorms in United States From will affect a vast swathe of the country between Tuesday and Wednesday

The rescuers also helped save a number of people from vehicles stuck at I-70 and York Street.

11 people together with three children, were helped to safety there.

The Denver Fire Department reported nine calls from people who had become stranded in floodwaters with a total of 78 calls from people needing help.

Lt. Chism also noted how it wasn't just members of the department who rescued people but civilians too.

'The amazing thing was it wasn't just these firefighters. We have reports of multiple, multiple locations where we had citizens helping citizens and people helping one another get out,' he said. 'And so, it was a great showing from everybody in the City of Denver to try to help everybody out in that environment.'

Park officials at Death Valley National Park said flash floods that left 1,000 stranded were caused by 'nearly an entire year's worth of rain in one morning'

Mud Canyon Road is closed due to flash flooding in Death Valle. Authorities say the main roadway into Death Valley National Park will remain closed into next week as crews clean up after record-breaking rains damaged the roadway and choked it with mud, rocks and debris

The Furnace Creek area of the park, near the Nevada-California state line, experienced 1.46 inches of rain in just a few hours

It's not just in Denver where floods have wreaked havoc.

Last week, Death Valley National Park in California endured flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall that left 1,000 people stranded and crushed cars.

Park officials said the Furnace Creek area of the park, near the Nevada-California state line, experienced 1.46 inches of rain, which they described as 'nearly an entire year's worth of rain in one morning.'

It has been described as a 1000-year event.

'The heavy rain that caused the devastating flooding at Death Valley was an extremely rare, 1000-year event, explained Daniel Berc, meteorologist with the National Weather Service Las Vegas.

'A 1000-year event doesn't mean it happens once per 1000 years, rather that there is a 0.1% chance of occurring in any given year.'

The officials also said about 60 vehicles were buried by the rushing floodwaters, and 500 park visitors and 500 park workers were left stranded.

The main roadway into Death Valley National Park will remain closed into next week as crews clean up after record-breaking rains damaged the roadway and choked it with mud, rocks and debris the National Park Service said on Monday.

The California Department of Transportation said about 30 miles of State Route 190 were partially or fully buried with debris and about 20 miles have been cleared.

However, the route will remain closed at least through August 17 from Trona Wildrose Road/Panamint Valley Road to State Route 127 in Death Valley Junction, Caltrans said in a statement.

60 vehicles were also wrecked in the floods, as they crashed into each other and were hit by floating dumpsters

Death Valley National Park, located near the California-Nevada state line, has over 1,000 miles of roadway across 3.4 million acres.

'As our crews continue to remove debris. They have found several damaged sections of highway with complete shoulder loss, damage to asphalt, and undercutting of the roadway,' Caltrans District 9 Director Ryan Dermody said.

Some of the debris collected will be used to fill in eroded road shoulders, Caltrans said.

On Monday, flash flooding from a monsoonal moisture system also closed a 5-mile stretch of road and prompted the evacuation of the southern portion of Joshua Tree National Park, another desert park about a 4-hour drive south of Death Valley.

No injuries were reported.

This handout panoramic image courtesy of Death Valley National Park Service shows monsoonal rain flooding Mud Canyon in Death Valley National Park, California on August 5
Donald Trump on Monday evening wryly joked about the FBI raid on his Mar-a-Lago estate, telling a rally: 'Another day in paradise'.

The former president dialed in to a 'tele-rally' for Sarah Palin, as the former governor of Alaska and vice presidential candidate aims to claim the state's only seat in the House at a special election on August 16.

Palin introduced Trump to her followers listening in, and said that they should all be grateful the 76-year-old was keeping his commitment to address them, despite the strains of the day.

'Another day in paradise,' Trump said. 'This is a strange day.'

He then moved on to reminisce about a visit to Alaska.

Palin is hoping to claim the seat vacated by Rep. Don Young, who died in March after 49 years in the role.

Donald Trump was spotted leaving Trump Tower in New York on Monday night after announcing his Mar-a-Lago home had been raided by the FBI

Sarah Palin is pictured on Thursday at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Dallas. She is running for the House, representing Alaska

Trump and Palin are pictured together on July 9 in Anchorage at a 'Save America' rally

Hours before, Trump revealed that his Florida home had been raided.

He said Mar-a-Lago was 'under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents.'

'They even broke into my safe!' he said.

'The political persecution of President Donald J. Trump has been going on for years, with the now fully debunked Russia, Russia, Russia Scam, Impeachment Hoax #1, Impeachment Hoax #2, and so much more, it just never ends,' he said in a statement.

'It is political targeting at the highest level!

'Hillary Clinton was allowed to delete and acid wash 33,000 E-mails AFTER they were subpoenaed by Congress.

'Absolutely nothing has happened to hold her accountable. She even took antique furniture, and other items from the White House.

'I stood up to America's bureaucratic corruption, I restored power to the people, and truly delivered for our Country, like we have never seen before.

'The establishment hated it.'

Donald Trump is pictured with Hillary Clinton during their first presidential debate, in September 2016. On Monday he accused the FBI of targeting him but giving her more lenient treatment

Donald Trump responds to the Mar-a-Lago search

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before. After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate. It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024, especially based on recent polls, and who will likewise do anything to stop Republicans and Conservatives in the upcoming Midterm Elections. Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries. Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before. They even broke into my safe! What is the difference between this and Watergate, where operatives broke into the Democrat National Committee? Here, in reverse, Democrats broke into the home of the 45th President of the United States. The political persecution of President Donald J. Trump has been going on for years, with the now fully debunked Russia, Russia, Russia Scam, Impeachment Hoax #1, Impeachment Hoax #2, and so much more, it just never ends. It is political targeting at the highest level! Hillary Clinton was allowed to delete and acid wash 33,000 E-mails AFTER they were subpoenaed by Congress. Absolutely nothing has happened to hold her accountable. She even took antique furniture, and other items from the White House. I stood up to Americas bureaucratic corruption, I restored power to the people, and truly delivered for our Country, like we have never seen before. The establishment hated it. Now, as they watch my endorsed candidates win big victories, and see my dominance in all polls, they are trying to stop me, and the Republican Party, once more. The lawlessness, political persecution, and Witch Hunt must be exposed and stopped. I will continue to fight for the Great American People! Advertisement

Hillary Clinton's emails were stored on a private server, against government protocol, and in March 2015 the company that maintained the server deleted the archive mailbox.

In his lengthy statement, Trump said the raid was a sign of 'dark times for our Nation'.

'Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before,' he said, noting that his lawyers had cooperated with those seeking return of presidential records removed from the White House when Trump moved out.

News of the transfer of the documents from the White House to Mar-a-Lago - which is against the law, stating that all presidential correspondence and documentation must be handed to the National Archives - first broke in February.

At the time, the National Archives said some had been returned.

On Monday, as news of the raid broke, CNN reported that investigators had visited Mar-a-Lago on June 8 and met with Trump's lawyers to discuss the return of the documents.

It is unclear why they now decided to launch a raid to claim them, and Trump said he was angered by the turn of events.

'After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate,' he said.

'It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024, especially based on recent polls, and who will likewise do anything to stop Republicans and Conservatives in the upcoming Midterm Elections.

'Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries.

'Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before.'

He added: 'What is the difference between this and Watergate, where operatives broke into the Democrat National Committee?'

His son Eric accused the current administration of wanting to 'attack Biden's greatest threat'.

Appearing on Sean Hannity's Fox News show, he revealed he was the one who alerted his father to the raid, and said his father's office was ransacked but that agents found 'nothing in the safe.'

The raid was said to be court authorized and the FBI gave US Secret Service agents at Mar-a-Lago advance notice and they cooperated letting them into the property, NBC News reported.

Eric Trump, who was spotted at Trump Tower on Monday, said he was the one that got the call on the raid and told his father about it

While appearing on Hannity on Monday evening, Eric Trump raged against Democrats as he detailed his involvement in letting his father Donald know of the FBI raid

Eric Trump alleged that Monday's raid of Mar-a-Lago was orchestrated by the Joe Biden-led White House, who he said see his father as their biggest threat

"My father never got so much as a speeding ticket in his life until he made one decision:



To go down the escalator...and go actually fight for this country..." @EricTrump pic.twitter.com/79BJwqYAkT  Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) August 9, 2022

President Joe Biden's White House had no heads up on the raid.

Senior White House officials found out about the FBI's Mar a Lago raid on Twitter, the New York Times reported.

Eric Trump, who was spotted at Trump Tower on Monday, said he was the one that got the call on the raid and told his father about it.

'I was the guy who got the call this morning and I called my father and let him know it happened, and I was involved all day,' he told Hannity.

'Welcome to politics in the 2020s.

'To have 30 FBI agents - actually more than that - descend on Mar-a-Lago, give absolutely, you know, no notice, go through the gates, start ransacking an office, ransacking a closet - you know, they broke into a safe.

'He didn't even have anything in the safe. I mean, give me a break.'

He said the White House was behind the raid.

'This didn't come from a local FBI field office in Palm beach, Florida.

'You know this came from? This came from one place and one building, and that is the White House in Washington, D.C. They want to attack a guy who they view as his greatest threat, Biden's greatest threat.'

Donald Trump was also spotted leaving Trump Tower in New York on Monday night after announcing his home had been raided by the FBI, reportedly as part of an investigation into whether the former president took classified documents with him when he left the White House.

He waved and gave his signature thumbs' up to the gathered, but didn't comment on the investigation as he got into his SUV, surrounded by Secret Service agents.

Trump didn't say specifically what the federal agents were looking for, just that his Florida home was 'under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents'

He waved and gave his signature thumbs' up to the gathered, but didn't comment on the investigation as he got into his SUV, surrounded by Secret Service agents

But the investigation is focused on material that Trump brought with him to Mar-a-Lago after he left the White House, the New York Times reported, specifically if he has classified information in his private possession, which would be a violation of federal law.

Trump took 15 boxes of material with him in January 2021 after he left Washington D.C.

The boxes were returned to the National Archives a year later in January 2022 but agents on Monday were looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at his South Florida estate, the AP reported.

The search focused on the area of the club where Trump's offices and personal quarters are, CNN reported, noting Trump's personal attorney Christinia Bobb was present during the search.

And, during a meeting at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year, Trump's attorney showed federal investigators documents that were being kept on site, including some that were marked classified, the network noted.

Lara Trump told Fox News the former president liked keeping clippings and photos.

'Look, my father-in-law, as anybody knows, who's been around him a lot, loves to save things like newspaper clippings, magazine clippings, photographs, documents that he had every authority ... to take from the White House.'

She called the raid an attempt to hurt him as may 'announce any day that he's running for president in 2024.'

The raid comes as Donald Trump is considering another bid for the presidency - and his actions after the 2020 election, where he tried to invalidate Biden's victory, are under investigation by lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

It began Monday morning and took several hours.

It is highly unusual for a federal raid to take place at the residence of a former commander in chief.
An Australian man confined to an overcrowded Iraqi jail for almost two years needs urgent health attention due to seven suspected skin cancers.

Robert Pether, 47, a father-of-three, was thrown into an Iraqi prison in April last year while the engineer was on a business trip to the Middle Eastern country.

A photo of spots on Mr Pether was sent to a doctor in Italy showing he had lesions on his back and ear.

His wife, Desree Pether, told ABC the doctor was 'absolutely appalled' at her husband's state.

The father-of-three (pictured with his family) has spent the better part of 10 years working throughout the Middle East as he helped rebuild Iraq

Mr Pether (pictured) and an Egyptian colleague Khalid Radwan were arrested in Iraq after they were enticed to come to a meeting to resolve a dispute last year

His wife, Desree Pether, told ABC the doctor who saw pictures of the state of Mr Pether's skin was 'absolutely appalled' (pictured, a stock photo)

'He's got so many new moles on his back, he's got a new mole on the same ear that he had a melanoma before, and it has changed significantly in the last few months.

'It's displaying the same aggressive behaviour as the melanoma that he had.'

The spots need to be cut out but Mrs Pether said he could not have the operation performed where he is because of the risk of post-operative infection while sharing a crowded cell.

'Our doctors stated that he looks 74, not 47, and he looks very frail, like a frail old man,' she said. 'He's completely grey, and his skin tone is grey.'

Mrs Pether said a doctor told her her husband (pictured with his family) looks 74, not 47, and is very frail

The mum has spoken to her husband and said he is in a dark place and was 'absolutely terrified' of being in the jail.

Mr Pether and an Egyptian colleague Khalid Radwan were arrested in Iraq after they were enticed to come to a meeting to resolve a dispute last year.

An engineer, Mr Pether had been working on building the $1 billion Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) offices in Baghdad when he was arrested with his colleague.

An Iraqi court found the pair guilty of deception, carrying a $16 million fine and five years jail time.

Since his detention, Mr Pether's family has been trying to get him released.

For the first 19 days after his arrest, Mr Pether spent his days in solitary confinement and had just two hours' freedom to speak with a lawyer.

Prior to Mr Pether's arrest, he was a vocal advocate for Iraq and was proud to be contributing to the nation's rebuild.

Mr Pether's wife Desree said her husband is in a dark place and was 'absolutely terrified' of being in the Iraqi jail. Pictured, Robert and Desree together on their wedding day

The father has spent the better part of 10 years working throughout the Middle East as he helped rebuild Iraq after it was decimated by war.

Meanwhile, a United Nations arbitrary detention report said Mr Pether had lost 15kg and was severely dehydrated in prison.

It said he had been blindfolded, interrogated, screamed at, threatened, insulted and shown torture rooms'.

'There are indications that he was exposed to extreme cold, threats of death, humiliation and various forms of psychological abuse,' the November report said.



It said their imprisonment is in contravention to international law.

Labor MP Peter Khalil raised Mr Pether's situation in federal parliament last week, appealing to the Iraqi government to free him due to his declining health.
A Qantas pilot has reportedly been forced into emergency action when a plane was struck by lightning while in the air in a huge fright for passengers.

The flight left Perth at 6.48am on Tuesday and was due to arrive in Port Hedland at 8.55am.

But instead, flight QF1206 was diverted and forced to land at Karratha Airport at 9.17am after the reported lightning strike.

It came two days after a Qantas plane was forced to abort takeoff after terrified passengers saw one of its engines catch fire on the runway.

A Qantas flight in Western Australia has reportedly been struck by lightning. Pictured is a Qantas plane

A Qantas spokesperson said the safety of the flight reportedly hit by lightning was not compromised at any point.

'Aircraft are designed to withstand and fly safely when struck by lightning but it is policy that they get inspected at their arrival port after a strike,' the spokesperson said.

After a two-hour delay, the passengers boarded another flight from Karratha to Port Hedland which arrived at 11.17am.

Perth is two hours behind the time on Australia's east coast.

The original plane is being assessed by engineers to see if it sustained any damage.

The latest incident came two days after a Qantas plane was forced to abort takeoff after terrified passengers saw one of its engines catch fire on the runway.

More than a hundred passengers were removed from the QF91 aircraft due to fly from Sydney to New Caledonia following reports of an engine fire on Sunday.

Sydney Airport's air traffic control tower notified the pilot of the issue with the starboard engine, who then shut it down as a precaution.

The plane was escorted from the runway back to the terminal to allow passengers to disembark and engineers to assess the aircraft.

Flight QF1206 left Perth Airport (pictured) at 6.48am on Tuesday

Qantas said the aircraft has since been cleared to fly and that there was no sign of fire when the engine was shut down.

'The pilots followed procedure and shut down the engine as a precaution after being alerted by the control tower while taxiing,' the airline said.

'There was no warning light in the cockpit and no sign of fire when the engine was shut down. Engineers have inspected the aircraft and cleared it to return to service. Passengers have been re-accommodated on to another flight this morning.

'We thank passengers for their patience and understanding.'

The pilot is understood to have sent a 'pan-pan' alert - a low-level risk alert not posing an immediate danger to life - to the air traffic control tower.
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People traffickers have launched a 1,500-a-person 'summer sale' to cross the Channel illegally in a dinghy - mainly aimed at Albanians exploiting a loophole in UK anti-slavery laws - and advertised on TikTok with the promise: 'The French won't stop you - they will escort you safely until you reach the UK'.

Amid continuing calm waters and warm temperatures, 'never been cheaper' prices are being offered on social media with experts finding that at least a third of the 3,000 migrants who crossed from France in the past six weeks used one of the offers.

MPs have demanded that ministers redouble their efforts to deport migrants to Rwanda following a surge in Albanians using small boats to enter Britain, lured in with cut prices and the promise: 'Hurry Albanians  England is waiting.'

The price of crossing the Channel appears to have dropped from close to 20,000 to between 5,000 and 3,500 per person. In some cases it has been as low as 1,500 to fill inflatable boats landing on the Kent coast.

One advert said: 'Don't pay 17,800-18,000. They are passing by every day, it has never been cheaper', another shows a group in a dinghy grinning while holding the Albanian flag and promising safe passage to the UK for 5,000.

Albanians are understood to be using a loophole in UK anti-slavery laws by claiming that they are the victims of trafficking to Britain for forced work. It is said to help them claim asylum despite their home country not suffering civil war in 1997.

Multiple accounts have been discovered on TikTok selling Channel crossings and promising 'safe passage'

One of the TikTok accounts posted a video offering safe passage from Calais, northern France, for 5,000

A group of migrants including a babe in arms is taken into Dover yesterday

Around 200 people crossed yesterday - around a third are now usually Albanians

MPs demand Rwanda plan be restarted as soon as possible as traffickers 'trick migrants into racing to Britain before Boris Johnson is replaced' The Rwanda scheme was championed by Home Secretary Priti Patel Albanian migrants are being conned by ruthless human traffickers into making dangerous Channel crossings before Britain's next Prime Minister takes office. Those making the perilous journey are being warned a new leader will halt all crossings with patrols, while also dropping their charges from 10,000 to 2,000. MPs last night called on ministers to redouble their efforts to deport migrants to Rwanda following a surge in Albanians using small boats to enter Britain. Leaked figures have revealed migrants from the Balkan country  a Nato member that wants to join the EU  now make up four in ten arrivals from northern France. The escalation saw 1,075 Albanians arrive in the UK aboard dinghies and small boats in the six weeks to July 12. They made up 37.5 per cent of all migrants trafficked to the UK in small boats by gangs during the period  eclipsing all other nationalities including Afghans, Iranians, Iraqis and Syrians. Advertisement

Leaked figures have revealed migrants from the Balkan country now make up four in ten arrivals from northern France with 1,075 Albanians arriving in the UK aboard dinghies and small boats in the six weeks to July 12.

They made up 37.5 per cent of all migrants trafficked to the UK in small boats by gangs during the period  now eclipsing all other nationalities including Afghans, Iranians, Iraqis and Syrians.

And TikTok is being used to lure them in with nine criminal gangs said to run the route to Britain. Experts are split, with some claiming it is a sale to coincide with the hot and dry summer Europe is enjoying while others believe it is 'a closing down sale as they [gangs] are getting scared that the Rwanda policy will take off'.

Tony Smith, former director general of Border Force, told the Telegraph: 'It may be the business model is struggling to handle new markets like Albania and may have to do a bit more of this sales pitch to encourage more people to do it.'

The 'summer sale' is said to be contributing to a rise in crossings. And now multiple accounts have been discovered on TikTok selling Channel crossings and promising 'safe passage' - along with advice on using the asylum system.

One such smuggler told an undercover reporter for The Sun: 'The French won't stop you. On the contrary, they will escort you safely until you reach the UK water border.'

They were then told to contact a solicitor upon arrival in the UK who would help to concoct a 'good story'.

The smuggler added: 'I can give you a number of a solicitor I have used for my relatives. They have managed to secure documentation (permission to stay) for half the Albanians in London.'

He continued: 'Three months ago one boy was kept in detention for a month, then he was freed by his solicitor.

'All others I have talked to after they arrived were sent to hotels, then they disappeared. They went to their relatives.'

The man was speaking from the TikTok account @franc_gomone_angli1.

It comes as another 150 migrants including small children and a baby were picked up in Dover after being rescued from the English Channel on Monday - amid calls from MPs to restart the Rwanda plan as soon as possible.

Tory backbenchers have called on the next prime minister to act urgently.

Natalie Elphicke, Tory MP for Dover, said: 'It's clear many Albanians coming to the UK in small boats are not fleeing from war or persecution  they are economic migrants.

'This is blatant criminality and it underlines the urgency of getting on with Rwanda and similar schemes.'

Three accounts were found advertising the crossings, with one bragging about how the French let migrants through and promising a price of 3,500

Tom Hunt, the Tory MP for Ipswich, said the 'truly eye-opening' figures 'underline why it's so critical that the Government gets on and introduces the Rwanda scheme', adding: 'We need to bring this farce to a close.

'Legislation to bring the Rwanda scheme to fruition should be top of the 'in tray' when Parliament gets back after summer recess.'

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: 'No one should question this government's determination to break the gangs' business model.'

The reporter contacted three TikTok pages under the guise of a migrant seeking access to the UK.

One smuggler referred to himself as Gent and claimed to be the 'god' of people-smuggling.

He offered transport to the UK via a luxury yacht for 15,000 per person, while a second smuggler from Birmingham was selling seats in a dinghy for 8,000 for two people.

The @franc_gomone_angli1, which has posted videos from Crossing attempts, also said the Rwanda migrant policy has been 'cancelled' and the Government 'will send you to a hotel'.

A statement from TikTok said: 'This content has no place on TikTok. We don't allow content that promotes people smuggling.

'We work closely with UK law enforcement and industry partners to find and remove content of this nature, and participate in the joint action plan with the National Crime Agency to help combat immigration crime online.'

Home Secretary Priti Patel added: 'Social media posts promoting illegal crossings are totally unacceptable.

'We are looking at reforming the system we use to identify victims of modern slavery, so that we can support genuine victims while making sure that the system is not misused.'

Another 150 migrants are picked up in Dover after being rescued from the Channel - as over 18,000 have arrived so far this year and MPs demand Rwanda plan to be restarted as soon as possible

Another 150 migrants including small children and a baby were picked up in Dover after being rescued from the English Channel yesterday - amid calls from MPs to restart the Rwanda plan as soon as possible.

A total of 18,284 people have crossed the Channel so far this year - with 1,885 of those migrants arriving in August alone, according to data released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The first group of at least 80 people were brought into Dover, Kent, on-board Border Force ship Typhoon shortly before 7am.

They were escorted off the vessel by Border Force staff, before being loaded onto a coach to be taken for processing.

Two men could be seen supporting each other by holding hands as they walked along the gangway.

A second group of approximately 50 people arrived at the harbour on Border Force cutter Ranger at around 8am.

At least four children and a small baby wrapped in a blue blanket were among those led along the walkway by soldiers in camouflage fatigues.

And a further group were escorted ashore into Dover on Border Force vessel Volunteer at around 3.45pm on Monday.

The group included a number of young children, with a soldier seen carrying a small baby along the gangway to be processed by UK officials.

Other migrants were spotted carrying their possessions in plastic carrier bags as they disembarked the boat.

While the MoD is yet to release the official figures for yesterday, it is thought that at least 150 migrants have crossed the English Channel by small boat so far.

The group of migrants were escorted off the vessel by Border Force staff, before being loaded onto a coach to be taken for processing

At least four children and a small baby wrapped in a blue blanket were among those led along the walkway by soldiers in camouflage fatigues

A total of 18,284 people have crossed the Channel so far this year - with 1,885 of those migrants arriving in August alone, according to data released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD)

It comes after the weekend saw more than 500 migrants make the perilous journey across the 21-mile Dover Straits in inflatable dinghies and other small craft.

According to official government data, 337 people arrived on British soil in 10 boats on Saturday, while a further 176 migrants were intercepted at sea in five vessels on Sunday.

The French coastguard (CROSS) in Griz Nez prevented a further 42 people from crossing the Channel in the early hours of Saturday morning.

After being made aware of a boat in difficulty in the Calais Straits, the CROSS tasked the French Navy rescue tug Abeille Normandie with rescuing a group of stranded people.

Abeille Normandie picked up 42 migrants and dropped them at the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer where they were taken care of by the departmental fire and rescue service and the border police.

28,526 people made the treacherous journey in 2021 - compared to 8,410 who arrived in 2020.

A Government spokesperson said: 'The rise in dangerous Channel crossings is unacceptable.

'Not only are they an overt abuse of our immigration laws, but they risk lives and hinder our ability to help refugees who come to the UK through safe and legal routes.

'The Nationality and Borders Act will enable us to crack down on abuse of the system and the evil people smugglers, who will now be subject to a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

'Under our new Migration and Economic Development Partnership with Rwanda, we are continuing preparations to relocate those who are making dangerous, unnecessary and illegal journeys into the UK in order for their claims to be considered and rebuild their lives.'

Last night, MPs called on ministers to redouble their efforts to deport migrants to Rwanda following a surge in Albanians using small boats to enter Britain.

Those making the perilous journey are being warned a new Prime Minister will halt all crossings with patrols, while also dropping their charges from 10,000 to 2,000.

Leaked figures have revealed migrants from the Balkan country  a Nato member that wants to join the EU  now make up four in ten arrivals from northern France.

The escalation saw 1,075 Albanians arrive in the UK aboard dinghies and small boats in the six weeks to July 12.

They made up 37.5 per cent of all migrants trafficked to the UK in small boats by gangs during the period  eclipsing all other nationalities including Afghans, Iranians, Iraqis and Syrians.

Tory backbenchers called on the next prime minister to act urgently. Natalie Elphicke, Tory MP for Dover, said: 'It's clear many Albanians coming to the UK in small boats are not fleeing from war or persecution  they are economic migrants. This is blatant criminality and it underlines the urgency of getting on with Rwanda and similar schemes.'

Elsewhere, the charge for hiding inside a lorry is as high as 22,000, although it carries a much high risk of being caught, The Sun reports.

A source said: 'Albanians are being told hundred of people will be patrolling the Channel, fences will guard the coast and they will be sent back and lose their money.

'It's coming from the gangsters so they can cash in by creating a real influx.

Police officers near the Boeing 767 aircraft at MoD Boscombe Down, near Salisbury, which failed to take off to Rwanda on June 14

'When there is a PM, a new lie will be created - whatever it takes to keep this evil trade going.'

Tom Hunt, the Tory MP for Ipswich, said the 'truly eye-opening' figures 'underline why it's so critical that the Government gets on and introduces the Rwanda scheme', adding: 'We need to bring this farce to a close. Legislation to bring the Rwanda scheme to fruition should be top of the 'in tray' when Parliament gets back after summer recess.'

Welby blasts 'unethical' treatment The Archbishop of Canterbury has urged Anglican bishops to speak out against 'unethical treatment' of migrants and climate change. In his latest highly political intervention, Justin Welby encouraged Church of England leaders to 'take risks' and warned that failing to act would make them 'one of the oppressors'. Describing climate change as an 'undeclared war', the former oil executive warned it could create 1.2billion refugees with consequences 'tragic beyond anything in human history'. 'To be silent on the unethical treatment of migrants or on war or oppression, on the abuse of human rights, on persecution, is to be one of the oppressors,' he told the Lambeth Conference of Anglican bishops. 'Not so much nowadays, I think both the Cabinet and myself would say,' he added. It came after the Archbishop used his Easter sermon this year to denounce Home Secretary Priti Patel's Rwanda asylum deal, suggesting that 'serious ethical questions' about the plan would not 'stand up to the judgment of God'. Advertisement

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: 'No one should question this government's determination to break the gangs' business model.'

A source in Liz Truss's leadership campaign said: 'Liz has a plan to expand border force, ensure the European Convention on Human Rights works for Britain, and reform modern slavery laws which are being abused. The need for deterrence is key, which is why we will ensure the migration deal with Rwanda works, and look to strike other deals.'

A spokesman for Rishi Sunak's campaign said stopping crossings would be a top priority for him, adding: 'It is wholly unacceptable that migrants from peaceful countries, like Albania, are trying to enter the UK illegally.'

The number of Albanians who arrived by small boat in the six-week period, latest official data places the country much further down the league table of arrivals.

Just 271 reached Britain by small boat in the first quarter of this year and 757 in the whole of 2021. However, there were a total of almost 5,000 asylum claims made by Albanians in the year to March, suggesting growing numbers may be switching to small boats from other methods of entering the UK, such as hiding in lorries.

The Home Office did not offer an explanation for the rise in Albanian asylum seekers last night.

Richard Tice, of Reform UK, who obtained the leaked report said: 'If these people are not genuinely fleeing for their lives, then it is not up to the British taxpayer to support them.'

Clare Moseley, of refugee charity Care4Calais, questioned whether the Albanian surge could be an 'anomaly'. 'The evidence clearly shows that for the last few years the majority of people crossing the Channel were genuine refugees,' she said. 'If there has been a change, it seems that the success of small boat crossings is affecting the behaviour of smugglers.'

A government spokesman said: 'The rise in dangerous Channel crossings is unacceptable. The Nationality and Borders Act makes it a criminal offence to knowingly arrive in the UK illegally and we have introduced life sentences for those who facilitate illegal entry into the country.'

French police foil migrants looking to sneak across the Channel by puncturing their dinghy with a KNIFE and smashing its outboard motor

ByMax Aitchison For The Daily Mail

This is the dramatic moment French police foiled an attempted Channel crossing by a group of around 45 migrants by puncturing the boat and smashing up its engine.

Just after sunset on Saturday evening in the sleepy holiday resort of Gravelines, between Calais and Dunkirk, migrants wearing red life vests emerged from the sand dunes and made a dash for the water.

Several women and men carried young children in their arms while a large group of mostly young men followed behind, hauling a black dinghy above their heads. But they were intercepted by a police car which raced across the beach, with officers bursting out to puncture the dinghy with a knife as the migrants scattered.

One fell to his knees with his hands covering his face as an officer appeared to use pepper spray. Police then smashed the outboard engine to pieces with a hammer and bemused holidaymakers looked on as the migrants walked dejectedly back to the dunes. No arrests were made.

This is the dramatic moment French police foiled an attempted Channel crossing by a group of around 45 migrants by puncturing the boat and smashing up its engine

Just after sunset on Saturday evening in the sleepy holiday resort of Gravelines, between Calais and Dunkirk, migrants wearing red life vests emerged from the sand dunes and made a dash for the water

The migrants were intercepted by a police car which raced across the beach, with officers bursting out to puncture the dinghy with a knife as the migrants scattered

Despite their elation, it came on a day when 10 small boats carrying 337 migrants successfully launched from the French coast and made it to the UK - with the total number this year alone now surpassing 18,000, according to Ministry of Defence figures.

The grim milestone was broken just five days after 696 people were rescued by Border Force and brought to shore last Monday, the busiest day for Channel crossings so far this year.

It is likely crossings will continue this week, with the Met Office predicting warm weather and calm winds on the south coast.

The location at Gravelines has been used by at least five smuggling gangs in recent months who are seemingly becoming ever-more brazen by attempting dangerous night crossings.

Elia Carpentier, 20, who works in the tourist office on the beachfront, told how she had seen a boat full of migrants leave the beach at 7pm on Friday.

I was really surprised because normally they leave when the sun goes down or at dawn, she said.

The boat waited for them at the edge of the water. Im not sure how many got on but there were men, women and children in the group.

The French police operation was the culmination of a tense, three-hour-long game of cat-and-mouse between officers and the migrants hiding in the scrubland behind the dunes.

From 6.30pm until sunset, a reporter and photographer from the Daily Mail lay in the sand at the waters edge, taking cover behind a pair of French bird hunters.

From that vantage point, it was possible to observe through binoculars two officers constantly monitoring a group of 18 young male migrants who kept moving through the scrubland.

Miss Carpentier, 20, who lives next to the beach at Gravelines, said it was an open secret where the migrants hid before attempting to cross the Channel.

At the far end of the beach there is a campsite and beyond that is a forest, she said.

They set up camp there for one or two nights before waiting for a boat. They just leave their stuff - I see it when I walk my dog.
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Olivia Newton-John, who died yesterday aged 73, rose to fame playing Sandy in the 1978 movie Grease.

But while her story is one of glitz, glamour and international stardom, her father, Brinley, or 'Brin', spent much of his life in the shadows.

As an MI5 agent and Bletchley Park codebreaker, then an acclaimed educator, Brin's career could not have been any more different from his daughter's, but it was in many ways just as remarkable.

And he was far from the only exceptional character on Olivia's family tree. Her grandfather was the renowned Jewish German physicist Dr Max Born, who was forced to flee to England after the Nazis came to power in 1933.

He ended up teaching at the University of Edinburgh for twenty years before returning back to Germany. In 1954, Born was awarded the Nobel prize in physics for his Born Rule, a foundational theory of quantum mechanics.

His son and Olivia's uncle, Gustav Born, was a leading pharmacologist, who was among the first allied personnel to witness the medical aftermath of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945.

After noting the tendency of victims to suffer from severe bleeding disorders, he concluded this was due to a lack of blood platelets caused to radiation damage. Subsequent research into the role of platelets made a considerable contribution to the detection of thrombosis.

As if being related to two scientific geniuses was not enough, Olivia was also the third cousin of Ben Elton, the actor and comedian who helped write the legendary sitcom Blackadder.

Olivia Newton-John (left) with her MI5 agent and Bletchley Park codebreaker father, Brinley, and sister Rona (right) in the late 1980s

Brin (right, with Olivia in the late 1980s) was seconded into MI5 to interrogate captured German pilots, and used his charm and familiarity with upper-class German society to put them at ease and elicit information

Olivia's father, Brinley Newton John, was born on March 5, 1914, in the new Cardiff's Market Tavern, and attended the city's Canton High School, which had recently introduced a new curriculum that included Latin, German and choral singing.

Brin, who played violin and sang in the school choir, thrived under the new regime and went on to win a rare scholarship at Gonville and Caius, the fourth oldest Cambridge University college, founded in 1348.

He achieved a double first class degree in modern and medieval languages in 1935 and became an assistant master at Christs Hospital the following year.

By this time he had met Irene Born, the daughter of the Nobel-winning German Jewish physicist and mathematician Dr Max Born, who fled Nazi Germany in 1933 and went on to become instrumental in the development of quantum mechanics.

He married Irene in 1938 at the Kensington Registry Office, and that same year moved to Stowe School in Buckinghamshire.

But the outbreak of World War Two interrupted his career in education and he was commissioned into the RAF in 1940.

Brin was quickly noted for his fluent German, and he was seconded into MI5 to interrogate captured German pilots - using his charm and familiarity with upper-class German society to put them at ease and elicit information.

Olivia's father was far from the only exceptional character on Olivia's family tree, with her relatives also including renowned physicist Dr Max Born (left), her grandfather, and his son, Gustav, (right) a leading pharmacologist

As if being related to two scientific geniuses was not enough, Olivia was also the third cousin of Ben Elton, the actor and comedian who helped write the legendary sitcom Blackadder

Olivia (centre), with her sister Rona (right) and mother Irene, left, at a State Dinner hosted by United States President George H.W. Bush and first lady Barbara Bush honoring President Vaclav Havel of Czechoslovakia

Sisters Rona and Olivia Newton-John (second from right) pose with Matt Lattanzi and their mother Irene Newton-John (furthest left)

Olivia Newton-John (second right), is pictured alongside Tottie Goldsmith (furthest right), Brett Goldsmith and Fiona Edelstein in Melbourne in 2013

Olivia Newton-John is pictured with her Melbourne-based actress and niece Tottie Goldsmith

Singer and actress Olivia Newton-John is pictured alongside husband Matt Lattanzi and their Chloe Lattanzi in 1988

Chloe Lattanzi is pictured with her mother Olivia Newton-John at the 35th anniversary of 'Xanadu' at Share nightclub in Las Vegas, Nevada in 2015

How Olivia's genius grandfather Max Born revolutionised physics Born on December 11th, 1882, in Breslau in the German empire (now Wroclaw in Poland) to the renowned embryologist Gustav Born, Max Borns intellectual abilities were noticeable from an early age. Studying first at Konig Wilhelm Gymnasium in Breslau, Born then attended the universities of Breslau, Heidelberg and Zurich. This was because the contemporary German higher education structure allowed students to transfer to different institutions and it is how Born ultimately ended up at the university of Gottingen, where he actually later became a professor of theoretical physics. As proof of Borns incredible impact on the world of physics, his students included J.R Oppenheimer - the father of the atomic bomb. Born was forced to flee Germany for England after the Nazis came to power in 1933 and ended up teaching at the University of Edinburgh for twenty years before returning back to Gottingen. In 1954, Born was awarded the Nobel prize in physics for his Born Rule. The Born Rule is a 1926 theory of quantum mechanics that uses mathematical probability to predict the location of particles in a quantum system. It was a game-changer because prior to Born, pinpointing the position of particles involved a myriad of mathematical equations and calculations. However, Borns Rule achieves a similar result with rows and columns of numbers (matrices) and the rules of probability. The Google Doodle describes Borns Rule as a revolutionary theory [that] now provides the basis for practically all quantum physics predictions.' Advertisement

Ian Lowry, a tour guide at Bletchley Park who wrote about Brin in a submission to the Daily Mail's Answers to Correspondents column, described him as 'urbane and relaxed', qualities he exploited to the full during his intelligence work.

He was clearly valued by his superiors, and became one of the MI5 officers charged with interviewing Adolf Hitler's deputy Rudolf Hess when he crash landed in a remote Scottish field in May 1941.

The bizarre solo flight, which Hess described as an attempt to negotiate peace with the United Kingdom but has never been fully explained, saw the leading Nazi taken into captivity for the rest of the war.

Decades later, by then a convicted war criminal and the final remaining inmate of the notorious Spandau Prison in Berlin, he hanged himself at the age of 93.

In 1942, Brin transferred to Bletchley Park, the now legendary hub of Allied code-breaking during the Second World War.

As an interpreter of intelligence that had been decoded, he was part of a small team that supplied General Montgomery with key information in the lead up to the Battle of el Alamein in 1942.

During quiet periods he found time to indulge his love of music, and once played the part of Mr Darcy in Pride And Prejudice.

After the war was over, Brin was able to return to his old career in education and he became Cambridgeshire High School for Boys, where he remained until 1954.

He was already father to a son and a daughter when his wife, Irene, gave birth to Olivia, their youngest child, on September 28, 1948.

The family moved to Melbourne in Australia, where Brin was appointed master of Ormond College, before moving to Newcastle University College in New South Wales to serve as Head of German. He would remain there for the rest of his career.

In 1959, Brin and Irene divorced. Irene would go on to encourage the young Olivia's singing abilities, and allowed her to perform with three classmates in a short-lived girl group known as Sol Four.

Irene and Olivia eventually returned to London with her mother after she won a singing contest aged 14.

Olivia's father became one of the MI5 officers charged with interviewing Adolf Hitler's deputy Rudolf Hess when he crash landed in a remote Scottish field in May 1941 (pictured)

The bizarre solo flight, which Hess (seen right, with Hitler) described as an attempt to negotiate peace with the United Kingdom but has never been fully explained, saw the leading Nazi taken into captivity for the rest of the war

Back in Australia, Brin married bookshop manager and pianist Valerie Ter Wee Cunningham in 1963, and they had a son and a daughter.

His professional career continued to flourish, and he rose up the ranks to become deputy vice-chancellor in 1968.

After retiring, he spent much of his time studying and listening to classical music, and eagerly followed Olivia's success in showbusiness.

He married for a third time in 1983, and died of cancer aged 78 on July 3, 1992.

Olivia died of breast cancer yesterday in California, where she was surrounded by her family.
An affair that started on the floor of a consulting room has led to one of Perth's top doctors exiting the profession in disgrace.

Dr Nicholas Forgione, 72, was found guilty of professional misconduct over a five-year affair with a female patient that caused him to announce his retirement in 2019.

Despite Dr Forgione admitting to the transgressions and demonstrating remorse, the State Administrative Tribunal handed down a four-year ban from practicing medicine and ordered him to pay costs of $11,000.

Dr Nicholas Forgione's distinguished medical career has ended in disgrace after he admitted to having a five-year affair with a patient and was found guilty of professional misconduct

The woman first went to Dr Forgione when he was a GP in May 1992 over various concerns to do with her pregnancy, mental health and the health of her young son.

From then until January 2020 she had over 100 consultations with Dr Forgione, which included breast examinations, prescriptions for anti-depressants and referrals to psychologists.

During a consultation over a chest infection in September 2012 the patient told Dr Forgione about her unhappy marriage and he suggested she leave her husband.

The patient played a CD in Italian and asked Dr Forgione to translate it, which he did before leaning over to kiss her.

'(Forgione) told the patient to get on the floor, and they engaged in sexual intercourse on the floor and on the consultation table,' the ruling stated.

From then until February 2018, Dr Forgione and the patient engaged in further sexual relations in the consulting rooms of a medical centre after his colleagues had left.

The also went to a hotel together, went on shopping trips and exchanged 'inappropriate text messages and emails of a sexual and/or inappropriate nature'.

Dr Forgione had a distinguished 42-year career including being director of Emergency Services at Princess Margaret Hospital

Dr Fargione also gave the woman amounts of money between $50 and $700 and paid for goods that included 'groceries, clothes, flights, concert tickets and gifts'.

The Medical Board of Australia began investigating Dr Forgione for misconduct in 2019 before eventually surrendering his registration.

Mr Forgione told them he would retire in December of that year.

In handing down its ruling the tribunal recognised mitigating factors such as family illness and other issues, as well as Dr Forgione's own battle with bowel cancer.

However it concluded Dr Forgione engaged in 'sexual misconduct of a most serious nature which 'strikes at the heart of the doctor-patient relationship'.

The tribunal also noted Dr Forgione's distinguished 45-year medical career, which included being a director of Emergency Services at Princess Margaret Hospital and a Medical Administrator at Royal Perth Hospital.

Dr Forgione also had advisory roles with Diabetes WA Primary Care Group, Notre Dame University and Curtin Universitys Centre for Clinical Research.
The family of a woman who took her own life after being stalked and harassed by Melbourne catfish Lydia Abdelmalek have called for a court to increase her prison sentence.

Abdelmalek, 32, impersonated Home and Away heart-throb Lincoln Lewis and British actor Danny Mac to attract women online, before stalking and harassing them.

She was found guilty of six stalking charges more than three years ago, but was released on bail during an attempt to appeal her conviction.

Victoria's County Court upheld Abdelmalek's guilty verdict in May and she was taken back into custody. She appeared in court on Tuesday to appeal against her two-year and eight-month sentence.

Five of Abdelmalek's victims gave impact statements to the court, describing her as an 'evil antagonist' and 'delusional liar' who showed no remorse for her actions.

One of her victims took her own life in 2018. Her family said the prolonged legal process had delayed their grief and re-traumatised them.

Lydia Abdelmalek departs the County Court of Victoria in Melbourne in 2020. She appeared again in court on Tuesday

One of her victims took her own life in 2018. Her family said the prolonged legal process had delayed their grief and re-traumatised them

'We have lived and breathed this nightmare for 11 years now,' the woman's sister told the court on Tuesday.

'I feel deeply that justice has arrived too late for my sister and will never mitigate the senseless loss we feel or the life sentence my family and I have been unjustly served.'

She called for the court to use the appeal as an opportunity to increase Abdelmalek's sentence because she 'is a danger to society'.

'The initial sentence of two-years and eight-months was issued over three years ago. My family has served that sentence already in the time it has taken for this appeal to be finalised,' she said.

'It is my hope that Ms Abdelmalek's previous sentence will be increased to reflect all that she has put [her sister] through and all that we have suffered as a family.

'May there soon be the full stop to this story we so desperately seek and undoubtedly deserve.'

She also called for laws to be changed to allow victims of catfishing and cyber bullying to have their complaints taken more seriously by police and to speed up the prosecution of such cases.

The woman's father said Abdelmalek's stalking and cyberbullying led his daughter down a path of 'utter despair'.

Abdelmalek, 32, impersonated Home and Away heart-throb Lincoln Lewis (pictured) and British actor Danny Mac to attract women online, before stalking and harassing them

Her mother said reliving her daughter's experience through three court cases had brought her grief to the surface.

Another stalking victim told the court said she was living in fear again after Abdelmalek launched legal challenges to her conviction and sentence.

She called for Judge Claire Quin to use the appeal as a way to 'send a message'.

'We should not create a culture that suggests that this behaviour or any other form of online abuse is acceptable,' she said.

'The consequences of the appellant's actions must be severe enough that they serve as a deterrent, not only for them, but for any others contemplating this type of assault.'

The appeal will return in September.
Taiwan's foreign minister said on Tuesday that China was using the military drills it launched in protest against U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit as a game-plan to prepare for an invasion of the self-ruled island.

Joseph Wu's accusation came as Taiwan held an artillery drill on Tuesday simulating defence against an attack on the island, and as tensions in the region remain high.

Beijing launched its largest-ever air and sea exercises around Taiwan last week in a furious response to a visit by Pelosi, the highest-ranking American official to visit the self-ruled island in decades.

Taiwan lives under the constant threat of invasion by China, which views its neighbour as part of Chinese territory to be seized one day, by force if necessary.

Wu offered no time-table for a possible invasion. He said Taiwan would not be intimidated even as the drills continued with China often breaching the unofficial median line down the Taiwan Strait.

'China has used the drills in its military play-book to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan,' Wu said, speaking at a press conference in Taipei.

Taiwan's foreign minister said on Tuesday that China was using the military drills it launched in protest against U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit as a game-plan to prepare for an invasion of the self-ruled island. Pictured: Taiwan carries out its own artillery drills on Tuesday

Pictured: Shells are showing flying through the air as Taiwan carries out artillery drills, Tuesday

'It is conducting large-scale military exercises and missile launches, as well as cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic coercion, in an attempt to weaken public morale in Taiwan.

'After the drills conclude, China may try to routinise its action in an attempt to wreck the long-term status quo across the Taiwan Strait,' Wu said.

Such moves threatened regional security and provided 'a clear image of China's geostrategic ambitions beyond Taiwan', Wu said, urging greater international support to stop China effectively controlling the strait.

The Chinese military said its Taiwan drills continued Tuesday and involved air and sea units. The Eastern Theater command of the People's Liberation Army said in a statement that it was conducting training exercises around the island, 'focusing on joint blockade and joint support operations'.

Wu went on to thank Western allies, including the US after Pelosi's visit, for standing up to China. 'It also sends a clear message to the world that democracy will not bow to the intimidation of authoritarianism,' he said.

Taiwan has insisted that no Chinese warplanes or ships entered its territorial waters - within 12 nautical miles of land - during Beijing's drills.

The Chinese military, however, released a video last week of an air force pilot filming the island's coastline and mountains from his cockpit, showing how close it had come to Taiwan's shores.

Its ships and planes have also regularly crossed the median line - an unofficial demarcation between China and Taiwan that the former does not recognise - since drills began last week.

Ballistic missiles were fired over Taiwan's capital, Taipei, during the exercises last week, according to Chinese state media.

Despite the drills, a Pentagon official said on Monday that Washington was sticking to its assessment that China would not try to invade Taiwan for the next two years.

'I'm not worried, but I'm concerned they're moving as much as they are. But I don't think they're going to do anything more than they are,' US President Joe Biden told reporters at Dover Air Force Base.

The Chinese military released a video last week of an air force pilot filming the island's coastline and mountains from his cockpit, showing how close it had come to Taiwan's shores

Pictured: Aircraft of the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) conduct a joint combat training exercises around the Taiwan Island on August 7

Taipei's own drill started in the southern county of Pingtung shortly after 0040 GMT with the firing of target flares and artillery, ending just under an hour later at 0130 GMT, said Lou Woei-jye, spokesman for Taiwan's Eighth Army Corps.

Soldiers fired from howitzers tucked into the coast, hidden from view of the road that leads to popular beach destination Kenting.

The drills, which will also take place Thursday, included the deployment of hundreds of troops and about 40 howitzers, the army said.

On Monday, Lou told AFP news agency the drills had been scheduled previously and were not in response to China's exercises.

The island routinely stages military drills simulating defence against a Chinese invasion, and last month practised repelling attacks from the sea in a 'joint interception operation' as part of its largest annual exercises.

Wu spoke as military tensions simmer after the scheduled end on Sunday of four days of the largest-ever Chinese exercises surrounding the island - drills that included ballistic missile launches and simulated sea and air attacks in the skies and seas surrounding Taiwan.

An UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter prepares for landing during a military exercise at the Hengchun airport in Pingtung county, southern Taiwan August 9, 2022

Visiting US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (centre) waves to journalists during her arrival at the Parliament in Taipei on August 3, 2022. With her visit, Pelosi became the highest-ranking American official to visit the self-ruled island in decades

Chinese official is ridiculed after claiming Taipei's 38 dumpling restaurants proves Taiwan is part of China A senior Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman has prompted a storm of ridicule online, after a late-night tweet where she used restaurant listings to assert Beijing's claim over Taiwan. 'Baidu Maps show that there are 38 Shandong dumpling restaurants and 67 Shanxi noodle restaurants in Taipei,' spokeswoman Hua Chunying posted on the social media site late on Sunday. 'Palates don't cheat. #Taiwan has always been a part of China. The long lost child will eventually return home,' she added. Hua's tweet on Sunday appeared to backfire, as thousands of users on Twitter - a site banned in China and only accessible via special VPN software - piled on to poke holes in the top official's logic. 'There are over 100 ramen restaurants in Taipei, so Taiwan is definitely a part of Japan,' a Twitter user with the handle 'Marco Chu' wrote in Hua's replies. 'Google Maps show that there are 17 McDonalds, 18 KFCs, 19 Burger Kings, and 19 Starbucks in Beijing. Palates don't cheat. #China has always been a part of America. The long lost child will eventually return home,' Twitter user '@plasticreceiver' wrote in a parody of Hua's tweet. Others wondered jokingly if Hua's logic meant Beijing could place claims on territories far beyond the Asia Pacific region. 'There are 29 dumpling houses in the Greater Los Angeles area not to mention 89 noodle restaurants,' a person tweeting under the name 'Terry Adams' wrote. 'Using Hua's logic, LA has always been a part of China.' Sunday's tweet is far from the first time Beijing's diplomats have raised eyebrows with their use of social media that their own government prohibits. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian has frequently promoted conspiracy theories on Twitter, including the idea that the US military might have brought Covid-19 to China. Advertisement

China's Eastern Theatre Command announced on Monday that it would conduct fresh joint drills focusing on anti-submarine and sea assault operations - confirming the fears of some security analysts and diplomats that Beijing would keep up the pressure on Taiwan's defences.

A person familiar with security planning in the areas around Taiwan described to Reuters on Tuesday a continuing 'standoff' around the median line involving about 10 warships each from China and Taiwan.

'China continued to try to press in to the median line,' the person said. 'Taiwan forces there have been trying to keep the international waterways open.'

As Pelosi left the region last Friday, China also ditched some lines of communication with the United States, including theatre level military talks and discussions on climate change.

Taiwan started its own long-scheduled drills on Tuesday, firing howitzer artillery out to sea in the southern county of Pingtung.

U.S. President Joe Biden, in his first public comments on the issue since Pelosi's visit, said on Monday he was concerned about China's actions in the region but he was not worried about Taiwan.

'I'm concerned they are moving as much as they are,' Biden told reporters in Delaware, referring to China. 'But I don't think they're going to do anything more than they are.'

Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl also said the U.S. military would continue to carry out voyages through the Taiwan Strait in the coming weeks.

China has never ruled out taking Taiwan by force and on Monday Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said that China was conducting normal military exercises 'in our waters' in an open, transparent and professional way, adding Taiwan was part of China.

Taiwan rejects China's sovereignty claims, saying only the Taiwanese people can decide the island's future.

On Tuesday, the Chinese military released more details about the anti-submarine drills it had conducted a day earlier around the island.

The People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater command said the exercises were aimed at enhancing the ability of air and sea units to work together while hunting submarines.

It said maritime patrol aircraft, fighter jets, helicopters and a destroyer practiced locating and attacking targets in the waters off Taiwan.

The scale and intensity of China's drills - as well as its withdrawal from key talks on climate and defence - have triggered outrage in the United States and other democracies.

Beijing's moves threatened regional security and provided 'a clear image of China's geostrategic ambitions beyond Taiwan', Wu (pictured on Tuesday) said, urging greater international support to stop China effectively controlling the strait

But Beijing on Monday defended its behaviour as 'firm, forceful and appropriate' to American provocation.

'(We) are only issuing a warning to the perpetrators,' foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular briefing, promising China would 'firmly smash the Taiwan authorities' illusion of gaining independence through the US'.

'We urge the US to do some earnest reflection, and immediately correct its mistakes.'
A murderer who killed a pop star's daughter who went on the run after being released on licence has handed himself in.

Domestic violence abuser Terry Game, 50, was jailed in 2006 for killing then-partner Lisa Sullivan.

Brute Game strangled Lisa at a caravan park in August 2005 after he exploded in rage and throttled her to death.

Lisa was the daughter of pop star Lennie Peters who was a household name in the 1970s as part of the duet Peters & Lee.

Game was released on temporary licence from HMP Leyhill but failed to meet its conditions, police said on Friday.

A force spokesman said last night: 'Wanted man Terry Game, aged 50, has been arrested.

'He handed himself into a police station in Cambridgeshire earlier today and is now in custody.

Terry Game, 50, murdered his girlfriend Lisa Sullivan in 2005 and was jailed in 2006 for life

Terry Game, 50, as he looked when he was jailed in 2006 for killing then-partner Lisa Sullivan

'Game was wanted after being released from HMP Leyhill on a temporary licence, and failing to meet the conditions of that licence.'

Game was 33 when he killed Lisa and a court heard he had a 'history of abuse and violence towards women he became involved with'.

Her body was discovered by her 11-year-old son at the Martello Caravan Park in Walton-on-the-Naze in August 2005, while on holiday with her then-boyfriend and three children.

Lisa was the daughter of pop star Lennie Peters who was a household name in the 1970s as part of the duet Peters & Lee

Peters and Lee were a successful British folk and pop duo of the 1970s and 1980s comprising Lennie Peters (pictured) and Dianne Lee

During a two-and-a-half-week trial, a jury at Basildon Crown Court heard that her partner Terry Game, 33, lied to police she had accused him of being useless in bed. He pretended he strangled her in self-defence after she attacked him.

But Judge Philip Clegg said at the trial: said: 'Terry Game has been convicted by a jury of the murder of Lisa Sullivan. I am quite certain that on the evening in question, Lisa Sullivan was the victim of domestic violence.

'I found Terry Game was a bully to the woman who he lived with and in an outburst of violence, a loss of temper, in the early hours of August 3 he took her by the throat and quite literally strangled her.

'It must have been all too obvious that she was fighting for her life but nevertheless, driven by rage, he continued to do so.'

He was jailed for life with a minimum tariff of 15 years.

Peters and Lee were a successful British folk and pop duo of the 1970s and 1980s comprising Lennie Peters and Dianne Lee.
Former police lieutenant Jesse Porter, 58, shot and killed a woman during a training exercise at a Washington DC library

A retired police officer fatally shot a woman during a training exercise at a Washington, D.C. library, according to the metropolitan police.

Former police lieutenant Jesse Porter, 58, was arrested after he pulled out his gun and shot 25-year-old Maurica Manyan, from Maryland, in the conference room of the Anacostia Neighborhood Library.

He was teaching officers how to use batons right before the incident, which usually includes a brightly-colored training gun.

The victim is said to have paused to take off her mask and adjust her hair for a picture, before Porter pulled his gun from its holster, pointed it at her and fired.

According to one witness, Porter said, 'I thought I had my training gun. Why did I do this? Is she OK?'

The trainer had reportedly drawn the pistol to demonstrate how quickly it could be done, seemingly mimicking an attack that they would have to defend against using the batons.

Maurica Manyan, 25, had been working as a special police officer within the DC Public Library's public safety division and had been on the force for less than a year

Jesse Porter is pictured speaking to the media in 2013 in Washington. Porter, 58, was working for a private contractor providing training for a group of library police officers on how to use expandable batons when he discharged a single shot from his firearm

The shooting occurred about 3:30 p.m. in a training room in the lower level of the library, which is in the 1800 block of Good Hope Road SE.

The citys public library system has its own force of full-time special police officers who can be armed and ensure the safety of the library.

Porter, who worked for a private contractor that trains officers for the library, is accused of involuntary manslaughter.

'There was no threat, there was no need for a weapon and why pull the trigger,' Maurica Manyan's cousin said at a vigil Sunday, according to WUSA9.

'While in the conference room, the instructor discharged a single round from a firearm which struck the decedent. A firearm was recovered on scene,' police said in a statement released after the incident on Thursday.

Six people were in the room at the time of the shooting, including other police officers working for the library.

'Its not good practice,' Metropolitan Police Chief Robert Contee said. 'Im not sure in this situation why the trainer had a live weapon in the training environment. But it is not good practice to do this.'

The Anacostia Neighborhood Library, where the incident happened, is pictured

Porter, who retired from the force in 2020, was one of two people performing resuscitation on Manyan when police arrived and arrested him.

According to NBC, as Porter was led out of the building, he turned to a library officer and said: 'Im sorry. I shot your officer.'

Emergency responders then rushed the officer to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Manyan had been working as a special police officer within the DC Public Library's public safety division and had been on the force for less than a year.

An investigation as to why live ammunition was being used in the training exercise is ongoing.
A Ukrainian family who fled the war in their homeland have suffered more heartache after their dog was stolen six days after arriving in the UK.

Lina and Oleksiy Litvinova, both 40, their children Ivan, 17, and Kira, nine months, and Linas mum Larysa, 66, drove over 2,000 miles for three days across ten countries to escape the Russian onslaught.

They also travelled with their eight-year-old Yorkshire Terrier Ellie who theyve had since it was a puppy.

The family moved into a temporary home in Streatham, south London last Monday while awaiting a permanent residence but after being in the country less than a week their precious dog Ellie was stolen on Sunday morning.

Eight-year-old Yorkshire Terrier Ellie travelled with her family from war-torn Ukraine but was stolen less than a week after arriving in the UK

The dog is thought to have been taken from outside the Litvinova family's temporary home in Streatham, south London. Pictured: Ellie with Ivan (left), Oleksiy (middle) and Lina (right)

Lina (pictured) said she is 'heartbroken' about the theft of her dog

Ring doorbell footage shows the moment a red BMW stopped in the middle of the road outside the family-of-fives house and Ellie can then be seen running out.

Lina claims two people in the BMW told passersby they were the owners before snatching the dog and driving off with her in broad daylight.

Lina said: We are heartbroken. Me and my mother cant stop crying.

This sort of thing just doesnt seem to happen back in our home town of Kharkiv.

But we arrive here in England and within a few days Ellie is snatched.

I dont know why she was stolen and I dont particularly want the people punished.

We just want Ellie back.

Ring doorbell footage from a house across the street shows a red BMW stop at the side of the road as the little dog runs out the house

Lina said she doesn't know why Ellie (pictured with nine-month-old Kira) was stolen and just wants her back but no arrests have been made so far

A Met Police spokesperson said no arrests have yet been made but enquiries into the circumstances continue.

The spokesman added: Police were contacted at approximately 1.40pm on Sunday August 7 to reports of a dog theft from Ellison Road, SW16.

The dog was reportedly stolen at around 10.30am that morning from outside an address.
A Kremlin-backed leader has issued Russia's latest dire threat of annihilation by warning of strikes against the UK and the US if Western-backed Ukraine tries to recapture the Zaporizhzhia power plant.

The biggest nuclear site in Europe has been in Russian-occupied territory since March, but it continues to be operated by Ukrainian technicians working under the barrels of Putin's troops.

Kyiv claims the Russian commander in charge has wired it with explosives and threatened to blow it up if Ukraine tries to take it back.

There are also fears Putin's forces will blame a disaster at the plant as a false flag pretext to justify a further escalation of violence.

Kremlin-backed TV station Rossiya 1 aired Moscow's latest sabre-rattling last night in response to the crisis after renewed artillery blasts last week which both sides blamed on the other.

Yury Kot, the leader of the pro-Russian Ukrainian movement Parus, claimed it was Kyiv and the West jeopardising nuclear safety rather than Putin.

A serviceman with a Russian flag on his uniform stands guard near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

Zaporizhzhia continues to be operated by Ukrainian technicians working under the barrels of Putin 's troops

Yury Kot, the leader of the pro-Russian Ukrainian movement Parus, claimed it was Kyiv and the West jeopardising nuclear safety rather than Putin

He said: 'We all understand very well that [Ukraine and the West] are concocting a fictional reality. We are dealing with the reality.

'We need to tell Ukraine and its supporting countries - Britain and America foremost and make it clear.

'If Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant is damaged and a disaster occurs, two missiles will immediately strike your decision-making centres.

'One in Washington, the other in London. Nuclear ones.

'And that's it. There won't be any more talk.'

The biggest nuclear site in Europe has been in Russian-occupied territory since March

Putin has boasted that his new Sarmat [Satan-2] (pictured) and Tsirkon nuclear missiles are 'unstoppable' by Western defences

Kot's bellicose statement was slapped down by fellow talkshow pundit Aleksey Mukhin, head of Centre for Political Information, who said: 'This would trigger the mutual destruction protocol, so I would honestly refrain from making such statements.'

Putin has boasted that his new Sarmat [Satan-2] and Tsirkon nuclear missiles are 'unstoppable' by Western defences.

Propagandist Igor Korotchenko - a reserve colonel and editor-in-chief of Russia's National Defence magazine - warned of a nuclear-style winter even without a missile strike, caused by the gas shortages being imposed on the West by Putin.

'So this world is doomed,' he claimed.

'Millions of Europeansare terrified by winter coming. It will be like a nuclear winter.

'An apocalypse before our eyes. Switching off the energy, lack of gas, marauders on the streets, hassles with the police and desperate people's attempts to survive.

'There will be no food, no electricity, and no gas. And the main thing is there will be no hope.'

Major-general Valery Vasilyev, who commands Russia's nuclear, biological and chemical protection troops, has reportedly told Ukraine about the bombs at Zaporizhzhia and warned: 'This will be either Russian land or scorched earth.'

Vasilyev also told his men that even if they are given 'the toughest order, we must fulfil it with honour,' according to Ukraine's state atomic energy firm Energoatom.

It comes after a weekend of artillery blasts at the plant which damaged power lines, knocked out sensor and wounded a worker. Russia and Ukraine have each blamed the other for the strikes.

Russia has been accused of wiring Europe's largest nuclear power plant with explosives that will be detonated if Ukraine tries to take it back (file image)

Vasilyev's words were also shared by Ukraine's culture and information policy ministry, and by Anton Gerashchenko a senior adviser to the interior ministry.

'Nuclear blackmail for the whole world,' Gerashchenko said.

Meanwhile Petro Kotin, head of Energoatom, warned of a 'Chernobyl-style' disaster if containers of spent nuclear fuel at the plant are hit - saying it will be 'impossible to assess the scale of this catastrophe' if two or more are breached.

Kotin called for a 'demilitarized zone' to be set up around the plant, and for an international team of 'peacekeepers' to be sent in to safeguard it.

Antonio Guterres, speaking from Japan commemorating the US nuclear bombing of Hiroshima, described the attacks on Zaporizhzhia as 'suicidal'.

The Zaporizhzhia plant was struck on two separate occasions last week - once on Friday and then again on Saturday, local authorities said.

The first attack damaged a pylon leading to the site, and the second damaged three safety sensors and wounded a worker.

One of the plant's six nuclear reactors had to be shut down after the first attack, Ukraine said, though only as a precaution.

'A nuclear catastrophe was miraculously avoided, but miracles cannot last forever,' Energoatom posted after the attacks ended.

President Zelensky has accused Moscow of using 'nuclear terror' as a weapon as Putin's invasion of the country falters.

But Moscow has accused Kyiv of carrying out the attack, saying Western allies should exert pressure to get the shelling to stop.

Events at the Zaporizhzhia site - where Kyiv alleged that Russia hit a power line on Friday - have alarmed the world.

Guterres said the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) needed access to the plant.

'We fully support the IAEA in all their efforts in relation to create the conditions of stabilisation of the plant,' Guterres said.

IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi warned on Saturday that the latest attack 'underlines the very real risk of a nuclear disaster'.
Talks intended to avoid a strike by dock workers have broken down after they failed to resolve a dispute over pay.

Members of the Unite union at the Port of Felixstowe, Suffolk - the UK's biggest container port - are set to walk out for eight days from August 21.

The port authority said it offered port workers a 500 lump sum and a seven per cent pay rise during talks on Monday, an offer that was rejected by union members.

A spokesman said: 'We are disappointed and regret that, despite our best efforts, we have still been unable to reach an agreement with the hourly branch of Unite.

The Port of Felixstowe authority said it had been unable to reach an agreement over pay 'despite our best efforts'

The Port of Felixstowe on the south-east coast is the biggest container port in the country and handles almost half of all the container traffic in the UK

'During talks yesterday the port further improved its position, offering a 500 lump sum in addition to 7%.

'The staff branch of Unite and the Police Federation of Felixstowe Dock and Railway Company have agreed to put a similar offer to their members.

'In contrast, the hourly branch of Unite has again rejected the port's improved position and refused to put it to its members.

'We urge them to consult their members on the latest offer as soon as possible. There will be no winners from a strike which will only result in their members losing money they would otherwise have earned.

'Our focus has been to find a solution that works for our employees and protects the future success of the port. The union has rejected the company's offer to meet again.'

A spokesperson for Unite blasted the port's failure to reach an agreement, saying: 'It has had every opportunity make our members a fair offer but has chosen not to do so'

Workers at the port are demanding more pay amid the spiraling cost of living crisis across the country. They were given a pay rise of just 1.4 per cent last year, according to Unite.

The union said the strike would have a serious impact on UK shipping and supply chains, as almost half the UK's containers pass through the Port of Felixstowe.

Bobby Morton, of Unite's national office for docks, said last week: 'Strike action will cause huge disruption and will generate massive shockwaves throughout the UK's supply chain, but this dispute is entirely of the company's own making.

'It has had every opportunity make our members a fair offer but has chosen not to do so.

'Felixstowe needs to stop prevaricating and make a pay offer which meets our members' expectations.'

Unite national officer Robert Morton added: 'Felixstowe docks is massively profitable. In 2020 alone, it raked in 61 million in pre-tax profits and paid dividends of 99 million.

'It can afford to put forward a reasonable pay offer to our members but once again has chosen not to.

'That decision was driven by greed not need. Unite's door remains open for further talks but strike action will go ahead unless the company tables an offer that our members can accept.'
A dummy of Frankenstein's monster being held at the V&A has sparked a trans-Atlantic ownership row after a US museum called for it to be repatriated.

The wooden mannequin, which stands at seven ft, is based on actor Boris Karloff, who played the creature in films created in the 1930s and 1940s.

It is dressed in the original costume worn by the late English actor, with the dummy detailed with bolts in the neck and metal fastenings on the skull.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM) is contesting the monster's ownership, stating that it owns both the mannequin and its clothes.

In 1967, the dummy and its original costume were reportedly destroyed, with the pieces understood to have been lost

The wooden mannequin (left), which stands at seven ft, is based on actor Boris Karloff (right), who played the creature in films created in the 1930s

It has called for the V&A to repatriate the item, arguing that the NHM 'did not consent to the sale of these objects', The Telegraph reported.

But the London-based museum has said that the monster cannot be returned to the US under UK law, and was legally acquired for its collection.

The National Heritage Act 1983 states that the museum 'may not dispose of an object ... which is comprised in their collections' unless set criteria are met.

The mannequin was donated to the NHM in 1935 by Universal Studios, the production company for Bride of Frankenstein.

The V&A believes it was 'likely' used as a prop in the horror-sequel.

It was then loaned to the Academy of Motion Pictures in 1949, according to V&A research.

In 1967, the dummy and its original costume were reportedly destroyed, with the pieces understood to have been lost.

A dummy of Frankenstein's monster being held at the V&A has sparked a trans-Atlantic row. Pictured, two primary school children from Bethnal Green look at the giant prop

Boris Karloff as Frankenstein's monster, a role that developed his notoriety as a horror actor

Boris Karloff as Frankenstein's monster and Elsa Lanchester as Frankenstein's Mate in Bride of Frankenstein, 1935

Horror actor Boris Karloff's silver screen legacy Boris Karloff was an icon of horror cinema Boris Karloff was born William Henry Pratt on November 23, 1887, in Camberwell, London. He took the stage name Boris Karloff after emigrating to Canada and joining an Ontario-based touring company. For more than a decade, he travelled the US, starring in low-budget theatre before arriving in Hollywood. He went on to be recognised as an icon of horror cinema, having played the monster in the 1931 film Frankenstein. The role continued in Bride of Frankenstein, 1935, Son of Frankenstein, 1939 and The House of Frankenstein, 1944. Beyond the Mary Shelly adaptation, he starred in more than 170 films between 1919 and 1968, including Scarface. The actor also spent time on the stage and in the television. He married six times and had one daughter, Sara, who he shared a birthday with. During his later adult life, the actor struggled with chronic back trouble  a result of the heavy brace he wore as part of his Frankenstein's monster costume. He died on February 2, 1969 in Midhurst, Sussex from emphysema. Advertisement

But 21 years later, both the mannequin and the ragged clothing were purchased at an auction by the Museum of Moving Image, London, in 1988.

This museum, run by the British Film Institute, then closed in 1999.

After 15 years, Frankenstein's monster was moved to the V&A, with Californian staff at the NHM stunned that both the dummy and its costume were unscathed  and more than 5,000 miles away.

The NHM told The Telegraph that it 'was not aware of and did not consent to the sale of these objects'.

However the V&A said that when the monster was bought at auction in 1988, there were no legal ownership claims.

The law in the UK prevents the V&A from giving items in its collection away because it is a national museum.

The National Heritage Act 1983 blocks museums from selling items held for the public.

They can only be removed from a museum's collection by trustees if they are a duplicate or permanently damaged.

Similar issues with repatriation of museum collections have also been subject to this law.

The mannequin is due to be shown at the V&A Museum of Childhood in in Bethnal Green which is undergoing a 13millon revamp.

The Los Angeles museum said that it would like an 'open dialogue' with the V&A over a possible 'cultural exchange' to benefit visitors to both museums.

A spokesman for the V&A told MailOnline: 'The Bride of Frankenstein Costume and Dummy was acquired at auction by the Museum of Moving Image in 1988 who acquired good title.

'In 2014 the object was donated to the V&A and accessioned into the collection.

'The V&A has been in contact with representatives from the Natural History Museum in Los Angeles about the objects history and provenance, and proposed a number of partnership opportunities.

'We welcome the opportunity for further discussion.'

Boris Karloff was an icon of horror cinema, having played the monster in the 1931 film Frankenstein.

The role continued in Bride of Frankenstein, 1935, Son of Frankenstein, 1939 and The House of Frankenstein, 1944.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County has been contacted for comment.

The V&A (pictured) said that when the monster was bought at auction in 1988, there were no legal ownership claims
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Devout Shiite Muslims in the Middle East have flagellated themselves with chains and swords, leaving the streets soaked in blood as part of the holy day of Ashura.

In major cities across the region, believers commemorated the seventh century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein by drawing blood from their own bodies.

The ritual bloodletting carried out by men and boys is said to wash away sins and act as a symbol of mourning for Hussein who was killed along with his children at the battle of Karbala, south of Baghdad, in 680AD.

IRAQ: Shiite Muslims take part in the 'Tatbir' bloodletting ritual as an act of mourning marking Ashura, a 10-day period commemorating the seventh century killing of Prophet Muhammad's grandson Imam Hussein

INDIA: A man's back is torn to shreds as he repeatedly whips himself as part of the annual religious celebration for Shiite Muslims

LEBANON: Shiite Muslims bleed after gashing their foreheads during a religious procession to mark Ashura in Nabatieh

PAKISTAN: Shiite Muslims flagellate themselves during Ashura Day procession in Peshawar during the holy month of Muharram

Devout Shiite Muslims in the Middle East have flagellated themselves with chains and swords, leaving the streets soaked in blood as part of the holy day of Ashura

Today, revellers paraded and beat their chests on one of the most important dates on the religious calendar, as symbols of Shiite piety and penitence blanketed cities.

Across India, Pakistan, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Afghanistan and other countries with Shiite populations, devotees saw their pristine white robes turn red as blood poured from their heads after cutting themselves with ceremonial knives.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people converge on Karbala, some 50 miles south of Baghdad, to observe the solemn holy day.

Shiites see Hussein and his descendants as the rightful heirs to the prophet.

Devotees saw their pristine white robes turn red as blood poured from their heads after cutting themselves with ceremonial knives

A boy slashes his back using blades attached to chains as onlookers wearing black stand around during the ritual

Shiite Muslims watch mourners flagellating themselves during a procession on the tenth day of Ashura during the Islamic month of Muharram in New Delhi

In the holy city of Najaf in Iraq, a man's head is bandaged after he drew blood with a sharp knife. Najaf is one of the spiritual capitals of Shiite Muslims

A supporter of Iraqi populist leader Moqtada al-Sadr gashes his head during a ceremony marking Ashura, the holiest day on the Shi'ite Muslim calendar

The ritual bloodletting carried out by men and boys is said to wash away sins and act as a symbol of mourning for Hussein

His killing at the hands of a rival Muslim faction embodies the rift between the Sunni and Shiite sects of Islam and continues to shape the identity of the minority branch of Islam today.

The public rituals of Ashura often fuel sectarian tensions in places like Iraq, Lebanon and Pakistan where Islam's two main sects both reside.

Security forces were on high alert for any violence, as Sunni extremist groups that consider the Shiites heretics have seized on the occasion to mount attacks in years past.

In Iraq, the powerful cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has used the emotional religious occasion to stir up support for his movement, deepening the country's inter-Shiite divisions.

Unable to form a government, Iraq descended further into political chaos last week when thousands of al-Sadr's supporters stormed and occupied the parliament building.

Hussein's killing at the hands of a rival Muslim faction embodies the rift between the Sunni and Shiite sects of Islam and continues to shape the identity of the minority branch of Islam today

The public rituals of Ashura often fuel sectarian tensions in places like Iraq, Lebanon and Pakistan where Islam's two main sects both reside

In Iraq (pictured), the powerful cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has used the emotional religious occasion to stir up support for his movement, deepening the country's inter-Shiite divisions

Hezbollah supporters shout slogans as they march during Ashura Day procession in the southern suburb of Beirut today

A young supporter of Shiite Iraqi cleric Muqtada al-Sadr takes part in the 'Tatbir' bloodletting ritual as an act of mourning

Thousands of Iraqi Shia Muslims gather to attend mourning procession marking the day of Ashura in Karbala

Their sit-in continues outside the assembly, making it impossible for lawmakers to convene and raising the spectre of civil strife.

In the Shiite-dominated Baghdad suburb of Sadr City, al-Sadr's portrait hangs from nearly every door.

'We inherited this from our fathers and grandfathers,' said participant Hamza Abdul-Jalil. 'God willing, we will continue on this path.'

In Lebanon, where Shiites make up about a third of the Mediterranean nation's 5 million people, processions shut down areas across the country and Beirut's biggest suburb in the south, the stronghold of the militant Hezbollah group.

Tens of thousands of men, women and children shrouded in black marched through the streets, waving yellow Hezbollah flags. The chants of mourners and thunder of men beating their chests echoed in the air.

'At your service, oh Hussein,' they cried.

A man dripping in blood applies a cut to another's head as religious believers gathered as part of the holy day

An Iraqi Shiite worshipper carries torches during a procession of Ashura day at Kifah district in central Baghdad

In major cities across the region, believers commemorated the seventh-century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein by drawing blood from their own bodies
Senior No10 officials are willing to turn on Boris Johnson and admit he did mislead Parliament over what he knew about Partygate lawbreaking.

Three members of staff who worked with the PM have indicated they could give evidence to a Parliamentary probe that his supporters claim is a 'witch hunt' against him.

A seven-strong group of MPs is investigating whether Mr Johnson deliberated or unintentionally misled the Commons over Covid lawbreaking rife in No10.

It is examining the background to how he came to tell MPs 'no Covid rules were broken' and 'all guidance was followed in No 10', when he himself was later among those fined by police.

Mr Johnson argues that he made the statements at the despatch box in good faith based on his belief at the time.

The Telegraph today reports that one staff member is willing to give evidence tot eh inquiry led by Labour grandee Harriet Harman, with two others considering it.

Allies of the Prime Minister have previously attacked the 'kangaroo court' probe by the Commons privileges committee.

Boris Johnson pictured giving a statement to Slovenian media yesterday during his honeymoon in the country with wife Carrie

Sir Bernard Jenkin (pictured) is one of three remaining Conservative MPs on the Commons Privileges Committee

Boris Johnson claimed being foreign secretary was like being in a 'steel condom' - Davidson Former Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson has said Boris Johnson described his time as foreign secretary as like being 'imprisoned in a steel condom'. Mr Johnson became foreign secretary in 2016 and resigned in 2018 over Theresa May's Brexit plans, but not before first attracting criticism for making comments Richard Ratcliffe said 'enabled a propaganda campaign' against Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe who was being held in Tehran. Speaking to LBC's Iain Dale at a recent Edinburgh Fringe event, Baroness Davidson said: 'He once described being foreign secretary to me as like being enclosed in a steel condom. I found it odd because I hadn't asked him. 'I think he meant the amount of attention he had from civil servants to make sure he didn't say anything. Imprisoned in a steel condom is what he said,' she added, in comments reported by The Daily Telegraph. 'I've never heard that as a phrase... it would certainly affect performance, but this is not my area of expertise as I think you've already covered.' Baroness Davidson resigned the leadership of the Scottish Tories in August 2019 shortly after Mr Johnson became PM and was given a life peerage in the House of Lords in July 2021. The 43-year-old has not been afraid to criticise Mr Johnson, including early last month saying it was 'arrant nonsense' for him to remain until a new leader is elected. Advertisement

They said the committee's remit had been 'rewritten in order to facilitate a guilty verdict' before it even began work.

The inquiry's broad terms of reference mean the PM can be found in contempt for unintentionally misleading the Commons about lockdown-busting Downing Street gatherings  even if he did not deliberately lie.

And despite already resigning from No 10, Mr Johnson could be kicked out as an MP if the seven-strong committee rules against him.

Last night a senior Tory MP on the committee faced calls to quit the inquiry team after it was claimed that he labelled the Prime Minister 'dishonest'.

Sir Bernard Jenkin is one of three remaining Conservative MPs on the Commons Privileges Committee, which is looking into whether Mr Johnson misled Parliament.

In recent months he has taken aim at the PM over alleged lockdown breaches. He even suggested Mr Johnson should resign with dignity rather than being 'forced out like Donald Trump clinging to power'.

It has now emerged that Sir Bernard, a leading Brexiteer and former Tory deputy chairman, allegedly suggested that Mr Johnson joining the Vote Leave camp ahead of the 2016 EU referendum would be a 'disaster'.

In 2017, ex-No 10 aide Dominic Cummings told author Harry Mount: 'Bernard Jenkin said to me, 'I don't think Michael [Gove] will come over. But if he does come over, Boris will come over and that will be a disaster.'

According to the book, Summer Madness, Sir Bernard called Mr Johnson 'dishonest' and a 'philanderer'.

Friends of the Prime Minister yesterday suggested that the senior Tory MP's past comments make it difficult to justify his position on the committee.

One said: 'Bernard's long had a big issue with Boris. He can't possibly give a fair hearing when this shows he's already made up his mind about him.'

But last night Sir Bernard denied making the comments, saying: 'I have no recollection of using these words. I would not have used the word 'philanderer'.'

Sir Bernard, the MP for Harwich and North Essex, has not given Mr Johnson an easy ride during his time as chairman of the Liaison Committee, which questions the PM several times a year.

Sir Bernard's stinging words about Boris 'He's dishonest, a philanderer'  what Sir Bernard allegedly told Dominic Cummings about Boris Johnson before the Brexit referendum. He says he had no recollection of using these words 'The backbenches of the Conservative Party need no reminders about how to dispose of a failing leader'  to the Commons in January 'We are looking for a change in the capability and the character of the Government so that we can have confidence that nothing as clumsy or mortifying as this Partygate episode could ever happen again'  to Sky News in February 'There's no question, it's over for Boris Johnson as Prime Minister. 'And I went to tell him that yesterday at lunchtime yesterday after Prime Minister's Questions... I just said to him, 'look it's just when you go now and it's how you go, you can go with some dignity or you can be forced out like Donald Trump clinging to power and pretending he's won the election when he's lost'  to BBC Radio 4 last month Advertisement

Last month he chaired a particularly humiliating session where he allowed a Labour MP to announce the resignation of members of Mr Johnson's Government on live television as they happened.

In January  as revelations about various Downing Street parties began to emerge  Sir Bernard warned the Commons: 'The backbenches of the Conservative Party need no reminders about how to dispose of a failing leader.'

He told the PM to resign in early July, saying: 'I just said to him: 'Look, it's just when you go now and it's how you go, you can go with some dignity or you can be forced out like Donald Trump clinging to power and pretending he's won the election when he's lost.'

Nadine Dorries, who has called for the Tory MPs on the committee to step down, said: 'The collective hatred of Labour MPs towards Boris Johnson for delivering Brexit and an 80-seat majority for the Government by taking traditional Labour seats knows no bounds.

'This Machiavellian inquiry is the means to a by-election and Conservative MPs should have no part in it.'

Conservative peer Baroness Foster said: 'No problem with scrutiny  but just look at the group who are supposed to be doing it.

'What possible information do they have which has not already been in the public domain?'

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said No 10 will continue to assist the inquiry.

Mr Johnson could be found in contempt for unintentionally misleading the Commons about lockdown-busting gatherings even if he did not deliberately lie  and could be sacked as an MP.
This is the horrifying moment a Spanish reveller was left fighting for his life after being gored in the neck and trampled in a bullring at an annual festival.

The 37-year-old, named locally as Jose Ramon Bronte Les, was left haemorrhaging blood and appeared to be virtually lifeless as he dropped to his knees in his blood-stained clothes before being pulled to safety as the animal briefly paused its attack.

He was saved by an Italian cardiovascular surgeon who was on holiday and happened to be among the spectators watching the event.

The specialist medic reportedly offered to perform an emergency operation at the scene and was able to stem the haemorrhaging with other emergency responders before the injured man was rushed to hospital.

The drama happened on Sunday evening at a bullring in the town of Arguedas an hour's drive south of Pamplona in northern Spain.

The animal that charged Jose Ramon was a young heifer, which are often used in Spanish festivals because they are less dangerous than bulls and baby bulls but are faster and can still do a lot of damage with their horns.

Scroll down for video

This is the horrifying moment a Spanish reveller was left fighting for his life after being gored in the neck by a heifer at an annual festival

The reveller was knocked to the ground from behind after taking part in a Pamplona-style Running of the Bulls event through the streets of Arguedas as the animals entered the bullring.

Spectators could be heard screaming with horror as the heifer, called a vaquilla in Spanish, pushed its target up against the walls of the bullring and continued to dig its horns into his flesh.

With blood pouring from his neck, the man is shown trying to get to his feet. However, he appears too weak to do so, and is seen limply sitting in the dirt.

Footage of the final seconds of the drama showed two men pulling him out of the reach of the animal by lifting him up by his T-shirt.

Local reports said the hero Italian surgeon, identified only by his first name Efren, helped to stabilise the injured man and travelled with him and other emergency responders in the back of the ambulance after offering to operate on him.

Jose Ramon, whose condition has been described as 'serious but stable', is already said to have thanked the man who saved him after starting to breathe unaided at Reina Sofia Hospital in Tudela and receiving his first visits from relatives.

Efren, who was camping in Arguedas during his stopover en-route to Portugal, has declined requests for interviews and was on Tuesday believed to have left town for his final holiday destination.

The 37-year-old, named locally as Jose Ramon Bronte Les, was left haemorrhaging blood and appeared to be virtually lifeless as he dropped to his knees in his blood-stained clothes before being pulled to safety as the animal briefly paused its attack

The man (pictured on the ground) was saved by an Italian cardiovascular surgeon who was on holiday and happened to be among the spectators watching the event

Sunday's near-tragedy occurred a day after an 18-year-old died after being gored by a bull during annual festivities in the town of Soneja in the east coast Spanish province of Castellon.

The animal that killed him had just been let loose after burning balls of flammable material attached to its horns were set alight while it was still tied to a post.

Welfare activities have attempted to stop the controversial practice, known in Spanish as toro embolado.

The return of festivities involving Spanish animals since the easing of coronavirus restrictions has led to a spate of goring deaths and injuries so far this summer.

At the start of the month a reveller was dragged to safety with blood gushing down his leg after being gored by a young bull at a Spanish festival where a man was killed three years ago.

A woman onlooker could be overheard yelling: 'He's bleeding to death' as he was helped away before a Good Samaritan administered a life-saving tourniquet after it was confirmed his femoral artery had been hit.

The drama involving the 47-year-old happened at an annual festival in Pinoso near Alicante on the Costa Blanca, the same place where a 26-year-old man lost his life three years ago during the same festivities.

Last week, a reveller was left fighting for his life after a baby bull severed an artery in his leg while goring and trampling him during a Spanish festival. Pictured: The man is seen trying to escape the bull on top of a pile of tyres in footage from the festival

Footage of the moment he was gored showed him being tipped off a giant tyre by the animal as he taunted it in a closed arena. The bull did not relent in its attack, and also trampled him

Pictured: The man is shown being speared into the air by the bull and against the tyres as he tried to get up off the floor, and as other people in the arena watch on

Last month a reveller cheated death after being mauled by a bull during an annual event in the Costa Blanca resort of Moraira near Benidorm known as the Bous a la Mar, which literally means Bulls in the Sea.

He suffered a gore injury to his groin as well as scratches and bruising after being pinned on the ground in a temporary bull ring set up by the marina quayside for nearly half a minute by the angry animal.

The man eventually managed to free himself from its clutches and jumped into the sea after running to safety The day before the scare it emerged three people had died in just 24 hours after being gored by bulls at other festivals in the area.

On July 20 it was confirmed a 56-year-old man had lost his fight for life in hospital after being rushed to intensive care with head and gore injuries on July 12 from an event in Picassent near the east coast city of Valencia.

The local town hall said at the time it had decreed a day of mourning after learning of the man's death.

On July 19 it emerged a 50-year-old man named as Josep Antoni Garcia Arnau had died at another Valencia hospital from injuries he suffered after being up-ended by a bull at a festival in Meliana a 40-minute drive north of Picassent.

He was diagnosed with seven broken ribs and one of the blows he suffered is said to have penetrated one of his lungs and caused a build-up of blood which eventually claimed his life.

Around the same time it was confirmed a Frenchman aged 64 had died in hospital nine days after being gored during an annual festival in Pedreguer on the Costa Blanca a half-hour drive from Moraira.

All three men had been taking part in annual events known locally as Bous Al Carrer, which literally means Bulls on the Street.
A California dermatologist who was arrested on suspicion of poisoning her husband was allegedly caught in the act after her partner set up a nanny cam in the couple's kitchen of their $2.7million home.

Footage allegedly shows Yue 'Emily' Yu, 45, putting Drano - a brand of drain cleaner - into her husband Jack Chen's hot lemonade on multiple occasions.

Chen, a radiologist, told police he had become sick and suffered serious injuries before handing them the video evidence he says proves his claim.

Chen, who is now seeking a divorce after 10 years of marriage, claimed Yu abused him and their two children for years, with the dermatologist once shouting at the youngsters to 'go die,' according to court documents obtained by the New York Post.

Footage allegedly shows Yue 'Emily' Yu, 45, putting Drano - a brand of drain cleaner - into her husband Jack Chen's hot lemonade on multiple occasions

Chen, a radiologist, told police he had become sick and suffered serious injuries before handing them the video evidence he says proves his claim

'When Emily gets frustrated and yells at the children, she'll commonly use a Chinese phrase that translates to "go die",' Chen wrote in a court statement as he sought a restraining order against his wife.

'She also says to the children, "your head has a problem," "your head is sick," "go f**k yourself," "f***ing idiot," "stupid a**hole," and "get the f**k out of my way,' Chen wrote.

Yu was arrested on Thursday around 6 p.m. outside her dermatology office located in Mission Viejo, approximately 15 miles away from the couple's home in Irvine, Calif., Lt. Bill Bingham told DailyMail.com.

Bingham said Chen called the Irvine Police Department earlier in the day on Thursday and shared with them that he was 'being poisoned by his wife' and said he had 'video evidence to share.'

Dr. Yue P Yu, pictured, has been arrested over claims she tried to deliberately poison her husband

'Our officers reviewed the video,' Bingham said, before Yu was arrested on suspicion of poisoning her husband.

Bingham added: 'The allegations that were made by the husband was incredibly serious and we thought it was important to take quick investigative action on the case based on the allegation.'

Yu has not been charged but Chen has been granted a temporary restraining order against his wife while police continue their investigations.

No motive for the shocking crime has emerged. Yu, who works at the Providence Healthcare system in Mission Viejo, has had her work headshot removed from her employer's website. A spokesman said they were cooperating with police.

Chen said he and Yu met in 2011 and the couple married a year later on July 4, 2012.

Chen claimed his wife's behavior changed after their son and daughter, who are now aged seven and eight, were born in 2013 and 2014. He also claimed that Yu's mother, Yuqin 'Amy' Gu, also verbally and physically abused their children.

'As early as two-years-old Emily and Amy were verbally and then physically abusive to [our son and daughter] which intensified as they grew older,' Chen said. 'They are both verbally and physically abusive to me.' He said the women would call the children "f***ing stupid." '

Footage allegedly shows Yue 'Emily' Yu, 45, putting Drano - a brand of drain cleaner - into her husband Jack Chen's hot lemonade on multiple occasions

Chen claimed Yu spanked her daughter when she was three-years-old because she wet her bed. Yu also allegedly hit her son on his head and arms when he was two.

'When the kids fall asleep without permission, even if after 11:00 p.m. she would wake them up, demand that [they] go to her room, shut the door and make them cry,' he said.

'At the end sometimes she would tell the kids to get out and then slam the door behind them, making them cry outside her door.'

When the children would play piano after school, Yu would allegedly tell them they were 'f***ing stupid' until they cried.

Following the alleged poisoning, Bingham said Chen began to develop symptoms that worsened over the last month.

He said Chen did seek medical treatment once he became ill but was unable to provide details to whether a blood test revealed the poison in his bloodstream.

'Due to the integrity of the case it appears the poisoning happened over a period of time,' Bingham said.

Yu was arrested at her office after she she was interviewed by police.

'Our detectives contacted Yu as she was leaving her place of employment. They interviewed her and following her interview detectives placed her under arrest.'

He added: 'She [Yue Yu] was arrested under a section of California law that alleges she woefully placed a poison or harmful substance in food, drink, medicine or pharmaceutical product,' he said.

The alleged poison attacks are believed to have happened at their $2.7 million mansion in Irvine, Calif.

Bingham told DailyMail.com they've not discovered any connection of this incident with Yu's employment.

'The motive is still under investigation. It appears it was a domestic related incident between a husband and wife.'

The husband told officers he suspected she had been poisoning him and set up surveillance video to confirm it.

Bingham told DailyMail.com he has seen cases of 'accidental poisoning among children,' but said 'intentional poisoning' cases are not common.

'I've been doing this 22 years and this is a highly unusual and unique case,' he said.

The couple lived together in a $2.7 million home in Irvine, Calif.

After Yu's arrest, a search warrant was conducted by Irvine police officers at the home. The attack is said to have left Chen badly injured, although he is now recovering from his injuries.

Yus attorney, David E. Wohl told DailyMail.com on Tuesday that his client 'is absolutely and unequivocally denies poisoning her husband or anyone else.

He said that her husband filed for divorce around the same time she got arrested.

Since she made bond she has been living in a separate residence and working on retaining a divorce lawyer.

She obviously is shocked over the allegations made against her,' Wohl said. 'The false allegations made in an attempt to gain an advantage in the divorce and custody case that her husband filed against her.

Wohl said that his client also denied any of the allegations that she was abusing her two children.

'She denies any allegations of mental and physical abuse against her two young children,' Wohl said. 'She's an outstanding mother.'

When DailyMail.com asked Wohl viewed the video that shows his client allegedly using Drano to spike her husband's beverage, he responded:

The video does not depict any wrongdoing on behalf of my client, and does not depict her trying to poison her husband. That is all I can say right now.

Since the case was brought to light and Yu was arrested she has not been back to work.

She has been a highly respected dermatologist in Orange County for many years, of course this affects her reputation and employment as you can expect, Wohl said.

Yu's arraignment is scheduled for November 3 at 8:30 am at Harbor Court in Newport Beach, California.

Until that time, Wohl said his client will be 'busy preparing for her defense.'

He added: We are convinced that she will get her good reputation back when this is over.
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A sinkhole which suddenly appeared in Chile 10 days ago has now doubled in size and forced officials to halt operations at a nearby copper mine as local residents fear for their homes.

The sinkhole, which emerged on July 30, now stretches 160 feet across - large enough to swallow France's Arc de Triomphe - and is a whopping 656ft deep.

Seattle's Space Needle would comfortably fit in the black pit, as would six of Rio De Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer statues stacked head-to-toe.

Chile's National Service of Geology and Mining (Sernageomin) said at the weekend it is still investigating the gaping hole near the Alcaparrosa mine about 413 miles north of the capital Santiago, and had ordered all work at the site to stop.

Lundin, the Canadian mining corporation which operates the mine, said last week said the hole did not affect workers or community members and that it was working to determine the cause, but confirmed mining operations were stopped.

The hole near the small town of Tierra Amarilla first sprang up overnight on July 30 and measured about 82 feet across, with water visible at the bottom.

Sernageomin said it has installed water extraction pumps at the mine and in the next few days would investigate the mine's underground chambers for potential over-extraction.

Local officials have expressed worry that the Alcaparrosa mine could have flooded below ground, destabilising the surrounding land.

It would be 'something completely out of the ordinary,' Tierra Amarilla Mayor Cristobal Zuniga told local media.

 Slide me  A sinkhole which suddenly appeared in Chile almost two weeks ago has now doubled in size and forced officials to halt operations at a nearby copper mine as local residents fear for their homes

A sinkhole that was exposed last week has doubled in size, at a mining zone close to Tierra Amarilla town, in Copiapo, Chile, August 7, 2022

Chile's National Service of Geology and Mining said at the weekend it is still investigating the gaping hole near the Alcaparrosa mine about 413 miles north of the capital Santiago, and had ordered all work at the site to stop

The sinkhole, which emerged on July 30, now stretches 160 feet across - large enough to swallow France's Arc de Triomphe - and is a whopping 656ft deep

The sinkhole is now wide enough that it could swallow Paris' Arc de Triomphe (pictured during Tour de France on July 24)

Six of Rio De Janeiro's Christ the Redeemer statues stacked head-to-toe would fit in the 656ft deep sinkhole

Chilean media first released aerial images of the strange phenomenon on July 31, when Zuniga confirmed the presence of the sinkhole and spoke of the fear held by nearby residents that excessive mining in the area could have catastrophic consequences.

'Yesterday [Saturday, 30th July] we received a citizen complaint regarding a sinkhole that occurred here in our community near the Alcaparrosa mine,' he said at the time.

'We are concerned, since it is a fear that we have always had as a community, the fact we are surrounded by mining deposits and subterranean works under our community.'

There is no official confirmation yet that the sinkhole was caused by activities related to mining, but local officials say the hole is still growing.

Chilean media released aerial images of the strange phenomenon which took place on land operated by a Canadian Lundin Mining copper mine, about 413 miles north of the capital Santiago

The 82-foot-wide hole mysteriously appeared on Saturday in the commune of Tierra Amarilla in the Atacama Region, close to the giant Alcaparrosa mine, and is thought to be more than 650ft deep

'There is a considerable distance, approximately 200 meters, to the bottom,' a Chilean official said. 'We haven't detected any material down there, but we have seen the presence of a lot of water'

A sinkhole is exposed at a mining zone close to Tierra Amarilla town, in Copiapo, Chile, August 1, 2022

The local mayor said: 'It is still active, it is still growing and it is something that has not previously been seen in our community'

What is a sinkhole? A sinkhole is a hole in the ground created by erosion and the drainage of water. They can range in size from a few feet in diameter to enormous, gaping chasms, and are typically a natural phenomenon but can be amplified by human processes and interference such as mining. Sinkholes generally form when loose earth and soluble rock, such as limestone, becomes too moist and begins to erode rapidly. This causes the land to crumble, creating a sinkhole which can either slowly develop, or appear all at once as the earth falls away. Slow developing ones are known as cover-subsidence sinkholes, while those that appear suddenly, such as this one in Chile, are called cover-collapse sinkholes. The sudden holes which seize headlines are by far the most dangerous due to their unexpected nature and often cause destruction of buildings and fatalities. Advertisement

Mayor Zuniga said: 'It is still active, it is still growing and it is something that has not previously been seen in our community.'

Atacama Region official Gerardo Tapia ordered Sernageomin to establish why the sinkhole appeared.

Sernageomin's director David Montenegro later confirmed the organisation had sent specialist personnel to the area to conduct analyses.

'There is a considerable distance, approximately 200 metres, to the bottom,' Montenegro said. 'We haven't detected any material down there, but we have seen the presence of a lot of water.'

No injuries have been reported and officials continue to monitor the area, though locals are concerned that the hole, which appeared out of nowhere, is continuing to grow.

Lundin Mining Corporation, majority owners of the mine where the sinkhole appeared, confirmed the phenomenon was detected on July 31 and on August 1 said it had suspended work in the area pending Sernageomin's tests.

The corporation said in a statement: 'Upon detection, the area was immediately isolated and the relevant regulatory authorities notified.

'There has been no impact to personnel, equipment or infrastructure.

'The surficial sinkhole has remained stable since detection. Minera Ojos del Salado is conducting a technical analysis and gathering information to determine the cause of the event.'

Lundin Mining owns 80 per cent of the property and the rest is held by Japan's Sumitomo Corporation.

Atacama Region official Gerardo Tapia ordered the National Geology and Mining Service, known as Sernageomin, to establish why the sinkhole appeared

This image shows the proximity of the giant sinkhole to the Lundin Mining Corporation-owned mine and the nearby town of Tierra Amarilla

'The surficial sinkhole has remained stable since detection. Minera Ojos del Salado is conducting a technical analysis and gathering information to determine the cause of the event,' the mining corporation said

The Lundin Mining Corporation, majority owners of the mine where the sinkhole appeared, confirmed the phenomenon was detected on Saturday and said it had suspended work in the area pending Sernageomin's tests

Authorities are investigating whether mining and subterranean operations contributed to the appearance of the sinkhole

There have been a number of reports of sinkholes emerging in Australia in recent weeks following a period of heavy flooding.

Sinkholes often spring up after bouts of severe wet weather, because the excess water seeps into the ground and begins to erode the earth under the surface.

An Australian farm house in Richmond Lowlands, north west of Sydney, was destroyed earlier this month after it crumbled into a huge sinkhole which appeared after heavy rain and flooding along the Hawkesbury River.

It came as the Archerfield farm was recovering after being hit by a third major flood since the start of 2022.

Meanwhile in March, a major NSW highway was closed for repairs after a sinkhole swallowed huge chunks of the road, and families in the Blue Mountains were forced to evacuate after sinkholes and landslides threatened to engulf their homes following days of torrential rain.
Furious residents have blasted council bosses for spending nearly half a million pounds on a traveller site which they say has never been used.

Taxpayers' picked up the bill for the controversial site, a Negotiated Stopping Point (NSP), which can hold 13 caravans plus vehicles and costs travellers 100 a week to use plus a 250 deposit.

The two-acre former landfill site was developed by Wolverhampton City Council into a transit site for travellers in a bid to stop them staying on other illegal sites and was originally set to cost 1million.

The site - equipped with laundry and washing facilities, perimeter fencing surrounding the area and CCTV monitoring - was designed to temporarily house travellers who had been evicted from illegal camps.

Furious Wolverhampton residents have blasted council bosses for spending almost 1million on a traveller site which has never been used

Bosses from councils across the UK insist transit sites provide long-term savings as they drastically reduce clean up costs.

Wolverhampton council said that clean up costs have previously been around 300,000 each year.

The original forecast of costs for the NSP was 1million to allow for any unforeseen issues relating to the land - previously a quarry and landfill site. However, costs were later reduced to 455,000.

Travellers staying at the site are permitted to stay for up to 14 days at a cost of 100 per week, plus a 250 deposit.

Once they left they were not permitted to return to the city for 12 months.

However, despite being opened last September, the site has not been used by a single person.

The site - equipped with laundry and washing facilities, perimeter fencing surrounding the area and CCTV monitoring - was designed to temporarily house travellers who had been evicted from illegal camps

Residents have reacted with fury and accused council chiefs of 'going soft' on travellers after another group invaded a park three miles away last month.

Mick Elson, 55, from Wolverhampton, said: 'It's an absolute joke.

'Not only does the council spend nearly 1 million of our money on a site to help illegal travellers, no one even uses it.

'Your average illegal traveller isn't exactly going to be willing to cough up hundreds of pounds when there's a park down the road where they can pitch up for free.

'Yet again the council have gone soft on travellers who invade our parks and open spaces at the expense of law-abiding citizens. It's disgusting.'

Mum-of-three Debra Craig, 40, added: 'Building a site where you are asking travellers to pay hundreds of pounds was always a crackers idea to me.

'The fact the site hasn't even been used just makes the council look like a laughing stock.

'The people who illegally set up camps shouldn't be given help to plan their next illegal move, they should be prosecuted.'

Travellers staying at the site are permitted to stay for up to 14 days at a cost of 100 per week, plus a 250 deposit. However, despite being opened last September, the site has not been used by a single person

Councillor Steve Evans, Wolverhampton Council's environment chief, said the council took the issue of unauthorised encampments 'very seriously'.

He said: 'The creation of our NSP in Gorsebrook Road gives members of those encampments a choice when they come to the city.

'While it has not yet been used, it is an option we have to deter unauthorised encampments.

'Should anyone coming into the city choose not to stay at the NSP and instead decide to set up an unauthorised encampment, then council officers will take the appropriate actions.'

Conservative councillor Wendy Thompson added: 'This site was not wanted by the local community and it does not seem to be wanted by the travelling community either.

'It cost an awful lot and looks like a total waste of money.'

Another transit site in neighbouring town Smethwick opened in 2017 and cost 200,000 but has been used just once in the past year for 12 days.

A City of Wolverhampton Council spokesperson said: 'The Negotiated Stopping Point (NSP) has been developed on a former quarry and landfill site, and a contingency amount was built in to cover any unforeseen issues relating to the type of land.

'However, during development, it became clear that the construction work would be more straightforward than anticipated.

'In addition, we were able to work with our contractors, to complete the NSP in one developmental phase rather than two, helping us to reduce costs further.

'As a result of careful budget management, our commitment to seeking best value for money from our contractors and a more straightforward construction process than originally anticipated, the final cost of the NSP was just under 455,000, meaning the Council has been able to redirect a significant amount of funding to other vital public services.'
Former Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson has said Boris Johnson described his time as foreign secretary as like being 'imprisoned in a steel condom'.

She revealed the bizarre comment as she spoke about her life in politics at the Edinburgh Fringe.

Mr Johnson was foreign secretary under Theresa May from 2016 until 2018, when he quit to pursue a run for party leader.

Speaking to LBC's Iain Dale at a recent Edinburgh Fringe event, Baroness Davidson said: 'He once described being foreign secretary to me as like being enclosed in a steel condom. I found it odd because I hadn't asked him.

'I think he meant the amount of attention he had from civil servants to make sure he didn't say anything. Imprisoned in a steel condom is what he said.

'I've never heard that as a phrase... it would certainly affect performance, but this is not my area of expertise as I think you've already covered.'

Speaking to LBC's Iain Dale at a recent Edinburgh Fringe event, Baroness Davidson said: 'He once described being foreign secretary to me as like being enclosed in a steel condom'

Mr Johnson was foreign secretary under Theresa May from 2016 until 2018, when he quit to pursue a run for party leader.

Mr Johnson's time at the Foreign Office was marked by a series of gaffes. His remarks about British-Iranian woman Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe were blamed by her husband Richard for extending her captivity in Tehran.

Baroness Davidson resigned the leadership of the Scottish Tories in August 2019 shortly after Mr Johnson became PM and was given a life peerage in the House of Lords in July 2021.

The 43-year-old has not been afraid to criticise Mr Johnson, including early last month saying it was 'arrant nonsense' for him to remain until a new leader is elected.

In January she said he had demonstrated he is 'unfit for office' over Partygate and told the Times she would have already submitted her letter of no-confidence in Mr Johnson to the 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers if she were a Member of Parliament.

But their animosity goes back to her time as leader of the Scottish Tories between 2011 and 2019.

Her allies are said to have been behind a campaign called Operation Ar*e which unsuccessfully tried to prevent him becoming Tory leader in 2019.

Mr Johnson's time at the Foreign Office was marked by a series of gaffes. His remarks about British-Iranian woman Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe were blamed by her husband Richard for extending her captivity in Tehran.

She was only released this year after almost six years of incarceration by the hardline Islamist regime.

In 2017 he was accused of 'incredible insensitivity' after reciting part of a colonial-era Rudyard Kipling poem about a British soldier kissing a Burmese girl to Myanmar dignitaries.

Mr Johnson began quoting the opening lines of Mandalay during a visit to the Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the capital of Burma, in January before being stopped by an ambassador.

The poem by Rudyard Kipling is written through the eyes of a retired British serviceman in Burma, also known as Myanmar, which Britain colonised for more than a century.
Five months of Ryanair strikes could cause chaos for 1.4million passengers as Spanish cabin staff walk out over pay and conditions.

Workers for the budget airline announced they will stage walkouts every week between Monday to Thursday from 8 August until 7 January.

Union groups USO and Sitclpa are demanding 22 days of holiday for their staff as well as an extra two months of payment per year.

The ten airports expected to be affected by industrial action include Madrid, Malaga, Barcelona, Alicante, Sevilla, Palma, Valencia, Girona, Santiago de Compostela and Ibiza.

The protests follow a series of strikes which took place last month from July 18 to 21 and July 25 to 28.

Over 300 cancellations and 3,000 delays were caused by the weeks of action over the summer.

Union barons said they had no option but to press ahead with further walkouts after Ryanair sacked 11 staff and disciplined a further 100 employees.

The Irish company hit out at the 'two tiny unions' and criticised their 'poorly supported' strikes in June and July.

Five months of Ryanair strikes could cause chaos for 1.4million passengers as Spanish cabin staff walk out over pay and conditions

Workers for the budget airline announced they will stage walkouts every week between Monday to Thursday from 8 August until 7 January

Customers have reacted furiously to a potential wave of disruption over the summer and winter months.

One Twitter user put: 'Cabin crew strike in Spain may have something to do with it. That'll be me next week!'

In an earlier statement to MailOnline, a spokesperson from Ryanair said: 'Ryanair today (09 Aug) confirmed that it expects minimal (if any) disruption to its flights to/from Spain on days when minority unions USO/SITCPLA are holding their ineffective and poorly supported strike actions.

'Recent strikes by minority unions USO/SITCPLA have been poorly supported by cabin crew and have had minimal - if any - effect on Ryanair flights.

'Ryanair has recently reached an agreement with the main Spanish cabin crew union (CCOO) on pay, rosters and allowances for its Spanish cabin crew.

'Ryanair operates over 3,000 daily flights (almost 100,000 per month) and less than 1% of these flights have been affected by Spanish cabin crew disruptions.'

Although UK airports are not targeted by the strikes, Britons are at risk of having their trips delayed or cancelled by the action.

Under UK and EU law passengers are entitled to compensation if an airline cancels a booking less than 14 days before their flight.

Flyers will only be offered a refund if the company warned them more than two weeks in advance.

The ten airports expected to be affected include Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia (pictured above), Malaga and Ibiza

The protests follow a series of strikes which took place last month from July 18 to 21 and July 25 to 28

Weeks of action over the summer caused more than 300 cancellations and over 3,000 delays

easyJet pilot strikes in Spain are set to take place this month during three different intervals.

Industrial action will happen on 12 to 14 August, 19 to 21 August and August 27 to 29.

BA employees will not be taking strike action after coming to a "vastly improved" agreement with their employer.

A Ryanair spokesperson said: 'These two tiny unions who represent only a handful of our Spanish cabin crew have held a number of poorly supported strikes in June and July which have had little or no impact on Ryanairs flights to or from Spain.

'In July alone Ryanair operated over 3,000 daily flights and carried a record 16.8m passengers  many of them to/from Spain.

'Ryanair expects that these latest threatened strikes, which involve only a handful of our Spanish cabin crew, will have zero impact on our Spanish flights or schedules in August or September.

'On a point of correction, while a tiny number of Ryanair flights in Spain were cancelled or delayed in July, this was mostly due to ATC strikes and flight delays.

'No flights were cancelled in July due to these unsuccessful and poorly supported strikes by these two minority unions (USO & SITCPLA) who represent only a small handful of Ryanair Spanish cabin crew.

'The vast majority of Ryanairs Spanish cabin crew are represented by the CCOO union who have already reached a labour agreement with Ryanair which covers most of our Spanish cabin crew.'
HYDERABAD: Munugode MLA Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy on Thursday formally sent a letter of resignation to Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, requesting her to relieve him from the partys primary membership. He will be meeting Assembly Speaker Pocharam Srinivas Reddy to submit his resignation as MLA on August 8 or 9, after getting his appointment.

In the letter addressed to Sonia Gandhi, Rajgopal Reddy reiterated that as a loyal worker of the party he had faced humiliation in the TPCC led by its president A. Revanth Reddy. It has pained me that those who once indulged in personal attacks on you are at the helm of the affairs in the state. Since I no longer could endure this, I decided not to work under a man who is a turncoat and who has brought disrepute to the position of a public representative and served in jail while trying to fulfil his selfish goals, he explained.

Rajgopal Reddy also lamented that Telangana, which became a reality owing to the initiative taken by the Congress president, has fallen into wrong hands of Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao and family. It is high time that Telangana was relieved from their clutches and it was only possible with another round of peoples movement. Since the Congress has failed to come up with a proper plan of action (to unseat Chandrashekar Rao), I have decided to choose a different path to fight it out, he added.

Rajgopal Reddy will be meeting the partys top leadership including home minister Amit Shah and others in Delhi before he joins the BJP.
Donald Trump regularly mishandled classified documents while President, his former press secretary has alleged after the FBI raided his Mar-a-Lago mansion in an apparent hunt for records he is accused of illegally taking when he left office.

Stephanie Grisham, a confidant of both Donald and Melania Trump before turning on them over the January 6 storming of the Capitol, said she saw him rip up documents and put some into his pocket during her time at the White House.

'The President of the United States did not handle classified documents properly,' she told CNN Monday night, hours after the FBI searched his Florida club in an apparent hunt for records that should have been given to the National Archive.

Trump's Florida club was raided Monday morning by agents with a warrant while the former president was away in New York. He found out about it afterwards before breaking the news to the world, calling it a 'dark day' for America.

Stephanie Grisham (second right), Trump's former press secretary, has claimed she watched him mishandle classified documents while he was President

Grisham spoke out after the FBI raided Trump's Florida mansion, with journalists briefed they were looking for protected documents he is accused of taking after he left the White House

Trump also likened the raid to Watergate - with the raid happening to take place on August 8, the same day Nixon resigned in 1974 at the height of that scandal.

Grisham, who served as Trump's press secretary from July 2019 until April 2021, said after the raid that she had 'watched' as the 45th President mishandled documents.

'I was sat in an airplane with him, watched him go through documents, throw some away, rip some up and put some in his pocket,' she recalled.

'Because I remember specifically thinking: "Why do those go in his pocket?"'

She then went on to speculate about what could be in the documents the FBI were looking for at Mar-a-Lago, suggesting it would have to be 'something big' to justify such a high-profile raid.

'I don't think this is just going to be about letters,' Grisham said, referring to notes from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to Trump that the Washington Post said were contained in a batch of records recovered from Mar-a-Lago back in January.

'I think it could be about military operations. This is me speculating, I want to be clear. But I could see the former President thinking they were cool, or fun.

'We were not a White House that followed the rules. And I can tell you that handling classified information was not something that was really impressed upon us on a daily basis, or weekly, or monthly.'

Trump has called the raid a 'dark day' for America and revealed that agents searched his private safe, but did not reveal if they took anything

Trump supporters gathered outside Mar-a-Lago to show their support in the wake of the raid, as he tees up a potential run for the presidency in 2024

Eric Trump accused Joe Biden of ordering the raid to discredit his father ahead of the 2024 race, but the White House denied all knowledge of it

The top-secret raid took place late Monday and was revealed by Trump himself, who said afterwards that his 'beautiful house' had been placed under 'siege' by a 'large group' of FBI agents in what he called a 'dark day' for America.

The FBI has not publicly acknowledged the raid, but journalists have been briefed that it is connected to protected documents Trump is alleged to have illegally taken with him when he left office.

Fifteen boxes filled with such documents were handed over to the National Archive back in January under federal laws which state all records linked to the president's duties while in office must be stored there.

That transfer was carried out after consultations between the Archive and Trump's legal team, who claimed the documents were mistakenly taken as the White House was emptied in a 'hurry' while the election result was still being disputed.

Monday's raid is thought to have taken place under a search warrant, though no government agency has said exactly what was being searched for.

Though the raid itself is not evidence of criminality, obtaining a warrant from a judge would require agents to show 'probable cause' that a crime had been committed.

Given the high-profile nature of the raid, it is likely that senior figures within the FBI and Justice Department would have needed to sign off on it.

The FBI are thought to have arrived at Mar-a-Lago around 10am Monday and spent several hours searching the mansion before leaving with multiple boxes of items

Investigations into the records are just one of a number of probes that Trump is facing over his time as president, his refusal to concede the 2020 race to Biden, and the January 6 storming of the Capitol Building by supporters convinced the election had been stolen.

The Justice Department is conducting a criminal investigation into the events of January 6, has charged hundreds of people with breaching the Capitol that day, and is said to be probing Trump's involvement in it.

Meanwhile the House Select Committee in Congress is conducting a series of hearings into the lead-up to January 6, and is interviewing high-ranking members of the Trump administration about attempts to overturn the election result.

Mike Pompeo, Trump's former Secretary of State and an ally while in office, is due to speak this week alongside Douglas Mastriano, Republican nominee for Pennsylvania governor who helped lead efforts to challenge that state's election result.

The state of Georgia is also conducting a separate grand jury investigation into Trump's efforts to challenge the election outcome there, while two separate investigations in New York are looking into Trump's finances.
The Department of Homeland Security announced Monday night that it is finally ending the Remain in Mexico policy, a Trump-era rule requiring asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their U.S. claim is being processed.

The suspension came after a lengthy back-and-forth in court.

The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in favor of Biden in July, saying he did not violate immigration law by ending the policy.

In a Monday statement DHS said it had stopped placing migrants in the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) as Remain in Mexico is formally known, and would continue to process those already in the program and allow them to continue their asylum claims within the U.S.

Under the 2019 policy migrant camps popped up along the Mexico side of the southern border as tens of thousands of asylum seekers wait to be called to the U.S. for their immigration hearings.

The policy 'has endemic flaws, imposes unjustifiable human costs, and pulls resources and personnel away from other priority efforts to secure our border,' DHS said.

Migrants from Central America, Mexico and Haiti are allowed into the country on humanitarian parole on Aug. 3, 2022

The humanitarian parole is an exception to the Title 42 policy still in place and the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP) or ''Remain in Mexico'' program, which has been suspended

The Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Biden administration ending the Remain in Mexico policy on June 30

Soon after taking office Biden tried to roll back the policy but Texas and a group of GOP-led states filed suit ordering the policy to be reinstated.

Lower courts ruled that the Biden administration violated federal law when he rescinded the policy, and on Oct. 29, 2021 DHS reinstated the policy. A judge claimed the administration failed to follow proper regulatory procedure when rescinding the policy, but the Supreme Court ruled it did not.

Under the Biden administration more than 200,000 migrants attempting to enter the country illegally have been stopped by border patrol agents.

Some of those who are sent back to Mexico are allowed to claim asylum under MPP, others are expelled under Title 42, a pandemic-era health policy that allows for immediate expulsion.

Even liberal Mayors Eric Adams of New York and Muriel Bowser have been feeling the squeeze of the unprecedented surge in unlawful migration after Texas and Arizona have begun bussing migrants to their cities.

Abbott chose New York and DC as both are sanctuary cities, meaning no one is asked about their immigration status when they report a crime or seek access to public services.

More than 6,000 people have been bused to Washington, D.C. since the April launch of Abbott's scheme. Last Friday saw the first arrivals in New York City.

Arizona Governor Doug Ducey, another Republican, launched a similar effort in May and has bused more than 1,000 migrants, his office has said.
A soldier has died just weeks after the suspected suicide of his girlfriend at an Army barracks.

Bombardier Ross Burnside had been in a relationship with Gunner Sophie Madden, 23, whose body was discovered at Overhill Training Centre at St Martin's Plain Camp near Folkestone, Kent.

An inquest into Gnr Madden's death heard she was found hanged on June 10 while on a training course at the base.

Just weeks later her boyfriend, Bdr Burnside, who she had previously served alongside, was also found dead.

Bombardier Ross Burnside, in his 20s, was found dead in Rotherham, South Yorkshire on July 19

Sophie Madden, 23, was a gunner in the 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, located at Albermarle Barracks. She was found hanged on June 10 in a Ministry of Defence building in Folkestone, Kent

He had served in a parachute regiment and had recently moved to the 1st Regiment of the Royal Horse Artillery.

Bdr Burnside, in his 20s, who was originally from Sheffield was found dead at his home in Rotherham on July 19.

A spokesman for his regiment said: 'It is with sadness that we can confirm the death of Bombardier Ross Burnside on July 19, 2022.

'An experienced soldier, Bombardier Burnside had served in 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery and had recently joined 1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery.

'He will leave behind a legacy through those he inspired, led and deployed alongside. Gone, but not forgotten, he will be missed by the Regiment and wider Gunner family.

Ms Madden, 23, pictured just four days before she died. An inquest into her death has been opened and adjourned - detectives are not treating her death as suspicious.

The female soldier was part of the 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery, located at Albemarle Barracks, Northumberland

'Our sincere condolences are with Bombardier Burnside's family and friends.'

Sheila Burnside, Bdr Burnside's mother, wrote on Facebook: 'My kind, generous, funny, loud, loving son. There are no words to say how much I will miss you my darling boy.

'You left us far too soon. Forever in my heart, always in my thoughts.'

Gnr Madden was born in Wigan and was based at Albemarle Barracks in Northumberland, where she served as part of the 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery.

Tributes paid to her on social media by her regiment described her as having 'resilience and professionalism'.

Sophie's relative Natasha Madden, of Skelmersdale, Lancashire, said in her online tribute to Ross: '[It] was such a pleasure having you a part of our family you can now rest at peace.'

One relative, Chantelle Madden, from Liverpool, wrote: 'Rest easy I miss you. Hope you [and] Sophie looking after yourself up there.'

An inquest into Gnr Madden's death has been opened and adjourned.

Detectives are not treating her death as suspicious.

The investigation into Bdr Burnside's death is continuing.
A gang of hooded thugs were captured on CCTV smashing their way into a service station and taking off with a haul of cigarettes.

The four brazen bandits pulled up in a stolen Mitsubishi Pajero four-wheel drive and used hammers to shatter the glass doors at the unattended BP service station in Nerang on the Gold Coast just before 3am on Tuesday morning.

Once inside, one member of the gang jumps over the counter and smashes open the cigarette cabinets.

His accomplices lay a groundsheet on the floor and the man behind the counter passes them cigarettes packages, which they pile on the sheet and then pick up by the corners to carry out a greater volume of loot.

Not content with that haul the brazen gang re-enter the shop and the man climbs behind the counter again.

His accomplices pick up a small orange wheelie bin from the shop and they stack it with cigarette packets.

A brazen gang of thieves have smashed their way into an unattended service station on the Gold Coast

Footage shows them carrying the bin out through the broken window.

It is estimated that the thieves took off with a few dozen packets of cigarette packets.

Once behind the counter the bandit wasted no time in going through the draws and finding packets of cigarettes

Once outside they quickly climbed into the vehicle and sped off.

Police said the focus of their investigation is centred on the four-wheel drive.

Anyone who has information about the vehicle or the men involved are urged to contact police.
Motown songwriter Lamont Dozier dies aged 81, pictured in New York in 1990

Motown legend Lamont Dozier has died, aged 81.

The songwriting genius, behind classics such as 'Baby Love' and 'Two Hearts', has passed away, his son Lamont Dozier Jr confirmed on Instagram.

He wrote alongside a picture of the pair: 'Rest in Heavenly Peace, Dad!!!'

A cause of death is not known at this time.

Producer Brandon Williams led tributes to Lamont, writing: 'Another man that sat down and taught me a lot about music is gone.

'The great Lamont Dozier. I'll never forget meeting and working with him along with the Holland Brothers in 2006. Thank you for all you did for me and for the world at large. You definitely made this place better.'

Lamont was one third of the iconic songwriting trio Holland-Dozier-Holland, who are known for co-writing huge hits for Motown acts such as The Four Tops, The Supremes and The Isley Brothers.

Their songwriting credits also include 'Reach Out I'll Be There', 'Where Did Our Love Go' and 'Baby I Need Your Love'.

Holland-Dozier-Holland penned and produced more than 200 songs, with their tenure at Motown between 1962 and 1967 helping to define the sound.

Dozier's son, Lamont Dozier Jr, posted a picture of the pair on Instagram and wrote: 'Rest in Heavenly Peace, Dad!!!'

Dozier performs live on stage during a rehearsal at the Royal Festival Hall in London on 22nd September 2001

From left to right is pictured Diana Ross, Lamont Dozier (at piano), Mary Wilson, Eddie Holland, Florence Ballard (seated) and Brian Holland in the Motown studio circa 1965 in Detroit

Lamont Dozier at Air Studio in Montserrat Various

Born in Detroit, Michigan, aka Music City, Lamont's first foray into music was singing in the gospel choir at this local Baptist church.

Motown boss Berry Gordy first approached him when he was with a group called the Romeos, but he was only 16 and didn't immediately jump at the chance.

He started working for a sister label called Anna Records, jumping ship to Motown when the company went under.

Motown record label had a group called the Matadors, who went on to become the Miracles - their hits 'Shop Around' and 'Please Mr Postman' propelled the label into enormous fame.

There, Lamont met Brian and Eddie Holland, the beginnings of the now world-famous writing-producing team.

'We were as surprised as anybody else when we came up with so many songs.' he said in an interview with The Guardian in 2015.

The team would get into the studio at 9am and often work until 3am, grinding out song after song.

Some took 15 minutes, whereas other they spent 15 days working on.

He said they had a mission to write music that was cheerful and optimistic, despite what was going on in the world at the time.

The approach created the signature style of dark lyrics combined with an upbeat tempo familiar to many of their fans.

President Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Leron Gubler, Eddie Holland, Lamont Dozier, Brian Holland, Songwriter Stevie Wonder, Record Producer Berry Gordy, Singer Mary Wilson and Councilman Tom LaBonge attend The Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony honoring Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier And Eddie Holland at Hollywood Walk Of Fame on February 13, 2015

Lamont Dozier, Boy George and producer Stewart Levine at Air Studios in the Carribbean island of Montserrat Various

That became our style: making lemonade out of lemons,' he said. 'I think thats why the songs have lasted, all around the world.'

Lamont and siblings Eddie and Brian Holland would get their first string of hits with The Vandellas' 'Come and Get These Memories' and 'Heatwave' in 1963.

A year later, they hit the big time with The Supremes' mega-hit 'Where Did Our Love Go', their first No.1, and certainly not their last, as they went on to score a further nine chart-toppers.

In 1973, Lamont parted ways with his songwriting partners and released his own music.

The following decade, he and Phil Collins joined forces on a new rendition of 'Two Hearts' for the soundtrack to the 1988 film 'Buster'.

It topped the charts and won the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song and the Grammy Award for Best Song Written Specifically for a Motion Picture or Television in 1989.

In 1990, Holland-Dozier-Holland were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Towards the end of his life, Lamont moved into the musical theatre business.

Lamont's composer credits include tracks for the likes of Kanye West, Sir Rod Stewart, Lil Wayne, and Solange, to name a few.

'Your dad lives on forever in the beautiful music he shared with the world', said an Instagram user commenting on Lamont Dozier Jr's post.

Other fans took to social media to commemorate Dozier's passing.

The band Simply Red, who wrote four songs with Dozier, described him as 'one of the greatest songwriters of all time'.

'Rest easy, Lamont Dozier, natural born hitmaker,' said another fan.
A woman has died after she slipped from her seat while riding a rollercoaster in Germany.

The 57-year-old victim, whose identity is yet to be revealed, was thrown from the ride at the Klotti Wildlife and Leisure park in Klotten on Saturday afternoon and fell 26ft to her death.

Police have been trying to establish whether her death was due to 'fault of a third party', but the most recent update from public prosecutors on Monday suggested there was 'no suspicion' of criminal conduct.

The woman, from Sankt Wendel in the Saarland region of Germany, died at the scene after rescuers tried in vain to resuscitate her with CPR.

According to the Koblenz public prosecutor's office, she 'slid out of her seat while the carriage went through a curve before she fell off the track from a height of about eight metres'.

Reports from German outlet Bild meanwhile suggested that rescue efforts were impeded by the location of the accident which unfolded on a part of the ride which was obstructed and difficult to access.

The 57-year-old victim, whose identity is yet to be revealed, was thrown from the ride at the Klotti Wildlife and Leisure park in Klotten on Saturday afternoon and fell 26ft to her death

Klotti Park (pictured) declared it intends to get the ride checked a second time by authorities to ensure it is in full working order and safe for visitors before commencing operation

After closing the park for three days in the wake of the incident, administrators from the park confirmed on Instagram last night that the attractions would re-open to members of the public from today, save for the ride involved in the accident.

Although the coaster has reportedly been inspected and cleared by Germany's Technical Inspection Association (TUV), Klotti Park declared it intends to get the ride checked a second time to ensure it is in full working order and safe for visitors before commencing operation.

Investigators meanwhile are reportedly working with the TUV to review the ride's 'approval and test documents from supervisory authorities' and questioning witnesses, with the body of the victim set to undergo a post-mortem examination.

A statement from Klotti Park, published originally in German yesterday, read: 'Dear Guests, starting tomorrow the 9th August 2022 we will reopen our KLOTTI park.

'Authorities are still investigating the cause of the accident. Meanwhile, the on-site investigations have ended and the roller coaster affected by the accident has been immediately opened for operation.

'Nevertheless, we decided to have the system inspected again by the TUV as a precaution. Therefore, the roller coaster remains temporarily closed.

'We are still very affected and it will be difficult for us to return to everyday life. Our thoughts are with the family, we wish them a lot of strength and confidence in these difficult times.'

Klotti Park administators published a pair of statements expressing condolences to the loved ones of the deceased and confirming the park would open from Tuesday, save for the ride in question which will undergo further tests

An earlier statement posted on Sunday around 24 hours after the fatal incident transpired spoke of the park's 'shock and amazement' at the death and expressed 'deepest sympathies' to the deceased's loved ones.

'Due to a fatal accident, we will also keep Klotti Park closed on Monday 08.08.2022 to support the authorities.

'We would like to use this way to express our deepest sympathy to the family, relatives and friends! Our team is still shocked and amazed.

'Since the cause of the accident is still unclear, today we cannot estimate how the parking operations will look like in the next few days.

'Thank you for your understanding!!!'

Klotti remained a wildlife park for years following its opening in 1970, but in the 1990s began expanding its offering to become a wider leisure destination offering theme park attractions.
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A nine-month old baby girl who was found dead in a house overflowing with bags of dirty nappies and piles of rubbish was suffering from Covid-19 at the time of her death, as it's revealed her mother was heard shouting 'Go, go, go' on the night she died.

Police found the 'unresponsive' infant inside the home at Doonside in Sydney's west on Monday at about 10am after responding to a concern for welfare call. The child couldn't be revived.

Both of her parents in their 30s were also infected with Covid but the official cause of death still remains a mystery to investigators.

Officers cordoned off the area as detectives spoke with the baby's parents.

The couple have claimed they awoke to find the the baby girl and called Triple-0.

However new details on Tuesday reveal 'small inconsistencies' in what each parent told police in subsequent interviews, 7News reported.

A nine-month-old baby who was found dead by police in a rubbish-strewn home in Sydney's west on Monday was revealed to have had Covid-19 like her parents (pictured)

The couple (pictured) were taken to Blacktown police station for questioning. They have not been charged

Shocked residents expressed their sympathy and devastation over the tragic loss.

Neighbours claim they had frequently heard loud arguments coming from two adults in the house, but the family of four children 'has not been out for the last week or two'.

Locals on Sunday night also allege the 32-year-old mother shouting: 'Go, go, go', to her partner.

The couple were taken to Blacktown police station for questioning. They have not been charged.

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting the couple are in any way responsible for the baby's death.

Rubbish and bags of dirty nappies spill out of the squalid Doonside house where the infant was found 'unresponsive'

A dirty nappy sits atop a shopping trolley stuffed with bags of rubbish and a child's scooter outside the Doonside home

On Tuesday Daily Mail Australia was met with a horrendous odour wafting from the home, with nappies on the footpath and overflowing bins dumped on top of a shopping trolley.

The yard is strewn with beer bottles, rubbish and broken toys.

Garbage spills out the front door on to the verandah of the house, from where the baby was carried out by paramedics the previous day.

Jessica, who lives behind the squalid residence, said she had reported two emaciated pet dogs she had seen in the back yard to the RSPCA, which had then removed the animals.

An orange bag seen at the suburban house appears to be stuffed full of soiled nappies

'I saw the dogs, but I barely saw the children. I feel so terrible I didn't notice anything,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'I heard them (the parents of the children) shouting at each other... fighting. I never saw the baby.'

Another neighbour, Karen, said she had seen 'all the kids out on the back patio laughing and playing' but that had been a few weeks ago, and the family had not been outside recently.

'The parents, I think they had some issues,' Karen said. 'It's just a tragedy. I don't know whether it was an accident or a natural death.

'I was devastated actually that someone so young won't continue on with their life.

Flowers left outside the house where neighbours said they heard loud arguments and one said they called the RSPCA to report two emaciated dogs which were later removed

Police outside the squalid house on Tuesday after detectives took away the parents of the dead child for questioning

'I have lived in this community for 33 years and you get the odd incident, but a year ago Jason was killed. It's heartbreaking that so many young lives are lost.'

Ms Nicholas was referring to 16-year-old Jason Galleghan who was found on August 4 last year with injuries to his head and chest at a house on Perigee Close, nearby the house where the nine-month-old was found dead.

Jason was found unresponsive and taken to Westmead Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Bags of rubbish are seen dumped in a shopping trolley in the front yard of the western Sydney home on Tuesday

A soiled nappy lies next to a garbage bin stuffed with dirty nappies outside the house where the baby was found dead on Monday

Five teenagers, including 19-year-old Kayla Dawson, have since been charged with Jason's alleged murder.

Another neighbour of the filthy house where the baby allegedly died, Carol-Ann, said on several occasions, particularly in the evening, she had heard the sound of arguing.

'I have heard yelling from inside when I was walking past,' she said.

No charges have been laid and forensic police are working to determine the baby's cause of death.
Volodymyr Zelensky has called on the West to ban all Russians from entering their countries in response to Vladimir Putin's barbaric invasion of Ukraine.

The embattled president urged world leaders to close their borders to all citizens of the invading nation in a bid to further punish the Kremlin for its savagery.

He told the Washington Post: 'The most important sanctions are to close the borders  because the Russians are taking away someone else's land.'

He added Russians should be forced to 'live in their own world until they change their philosophy.'

The Ukrainian leader wants the West to close its borders for a year to Russian citizens and impose a full embargo on the purchase of Russian energy.

Volodymyr Zelensky has called on the West to ban all Russians from entering their countries in response to Vladimir Putin's barbaric invasion of Ukraine

Throughout the war, he has been pushing for stronger retaliatory measures against Putin, saying the current sanctions are 'weak' compared with what is necessary.

While Russian airlines have been banned from flying over much of Europe and the US, there is no blanket ban for citizens travelling.

Yesterday, Finnish prime minister Sanna Marin called for restrictions on tourist visas to Russians.

Some say refusing entry to Russians would likely impact those who are leaving the country precisely because they disagree with Putin's regime.

But Zelensky said: 'Whichever kind of Russian make them go to Russia.

'They'll understand then. They'll say, 'This [war] has nothing to do with us. The whole population can't be held responsible, can it?' It can. The population picked this government and they're not fighting it, not arguing with it, not shouting at it.'

The embattled president urged world leaders to close their borders to all citizens of the invading nation in a bid to further punish Putin (pictured yesterday)

In the last 24 hours, at least three Ukrainian civilians were killed and 23 others were wounded by Russian shelling, including an attack not far from a Russian-occupied nuclear power plant.

Putin's men fired over 120 rockets from Grad multiple rocket launchers at the southern town of Nikopol, which is across the Dnieper River from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Several apartment buildings and industrial facilities were damaged, he said.

Ukraine and Russia accused each other in recent days of shelling the nuclear plant, which is the largest one in Europe, and increasing the risks of a nuclear accident.

In his nightly video address, Zelensky invoked the 1986 disaster at the Chernobyl nuclear plant in Ukraine, which at the time was a Soviet republic. He called for new sanctions against Russia 'for creating the threat' of another nuclear disaster.

A view shows a hotel building hit by recent shelling in the course of Ukraine-Russia conflict in the Russian-controlled town of Svitlodarsk in the Donetsk region

Russian military's Grad multiple rocket launchers fire rockets at Ukrainian troops

'We are actively informing the world about Russian nuclear blackmail - about the shelling and mining of the Zaporizhzhia NPP facilities,' Zelenskyy said.

'Russia will not pay attention to words and concerns...The Chernobyl disaster is an explosion in one reactor; the Zaporizhzhia NPP is six power units.'

The Kremlin claimed Monday that Ukraine's military was attacking the plant and urged Western powers to force Kyiv to stop the activity.

A Russian-installed official in the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region said an air defense system at the plant would be reinforced in the aftermath of last week's shelling.

Evgeny Balitsky, the head of the Kremlin-backed administration, told Russian state TV Tuesday that power lines and damaged blocks of the plant were restored.

'The plant is operating normally, but, of course, with an increased degree of security,' Balitsky said.

A serviceman with a Russian flag on his uniform stands guard near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant

A Ukrainian counteroffensive and Russian defensive actions in occupied areas has increasingly drawn firepower to southern Ukraine.

After failing to capture Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, early in the war, the Russian military focused its strength on trying to seize all of the country's eastern Donbas region.

Pro-Moscow separatists have fought Russian forces in the region for eight years and control some territory as self-proclaimed republics.

The British Defense Ministry said Tuesday that Russian forces had made the most progress in the past month in moving toward the town of Bakhmut - an advance limited to about 6 miles.

'In other Donbas sectors where Russia was attempting to break through, its forces have not gained more than 3 km during this 30-day period; almost certainly significantly less than planned,' the U.K. ministry said.

However, the ministry cautioned that despite the attention required in southern Ukraine, Russia had maintained attacks on Ukrainian positions in the east.

The governor of eastern Ukraine's Donetsk province, Pavlo Kyrylenko, said the Russians were trying to press their offensive in several areas.

Kharkiv, the country's second-largest city, came under the Russian shelling four times over the past 24 hours, and some city infrastructure was damaged.
Donald Trump is probably the target of a criminal investigation and the raid on his Mar-a-Lago mansion shows it, a former acting US Solicitor General has said.

Neal Katyal, who was appointed by Barack Obama to represent the government in front of the Supreme Court between 2010 and 2011, told MSNBC on Monday night that if he were Trump's lawyer, he would be telling him to 'prepare for jail time'.

It comes after FBI agents earlier searched Trump's Florida mansion - including his private safe - with journalists briefed that they were looking for protected documents Trump is accused of illegally taking after his presidential term ended.

Trump blasted the raid as a 'dark day' for America while lawyer Alan Dershowitz - a long-time associate of Trump via the Mar-a-Lago club and who represented him during his first impeachment - called the raid 'totally unjustified' and 'wrong'.

Neal Katyal, the former acting Solicitor General, has said the FBI raid on Mar-a-Lago shows Trump is probably the subject of a criminal investigation

The Justice Department is known to be conducting a criminal investigation into the January 6 attack on the Capitol, but has repeatedly refused to say whether it is looking into Trump

The FBI and Justice Department have refused to say anything about the raid - including why it was carried out, what agents were looking for, or whether they found anything.

It comes amid a Justice Department probe into the January 6 attack on the Capitol, with prosecutors said to be questioning witnesses specifically about Trump's actions in the lead-up to that day.

Katyal, who describes himself as an 'extremist centrist' and is a law professor at Georgetown University, told MSNBC: 'I think [the raid] makes it likely that the former president is the target of a criminal investigation by the Justice Department.'

Laying out the legal groundwork that the FBI would have needed to satisfy to get a warrant for the search, he added: 'They have convinced a federal judge that there is probable cause that a crime has been committed.

'[The judge is convinced] that there are documents in [his] house that are related to that crime, and that an ordinary request like a subpoena or something like that isn't going to be enough.'

He concluded: 'If I were Donald Trump's lawyer right now, and thank God that I'm not, I would be advising my client to be telling my family that I am expecting jail time and should be planning accordingly.'

Separately, former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani told DailyMail.com that - if Trump is found guilty of mishandling the documents - he could be barred from holding public office even as he prepares to run in 2024.

He said Trump would likely be charged under US Code Title 18, Section 2071 which involves concealment or destruction of US government documents.

The code states that anyone who 'willfully and unlawfully conceals, removes, mutilates, obliterates, or destroys, or attempts to do so, or, with intent to do so takes and carries away any record' could be fined and sentenced to a maximum of three years in prison.'

The provision also states that anyone convicted of records concealment or destruction 'shall forfeit his office and be disqualified from holding any office under the United States.'

FBI agents are said to have begun an hours-long search of Mar-a-Lago on Monday morning before Trump confirmed the raid later in the day (Secret Service agents at the mansion)

Trump supporters gathered outside Trump's Florida home after the raid, as son Eric alleged it was part of a plot to stop his father running for election in 2024

Mr Rahmani added: 'His lawyers told him about the law requiring that he preserve White House documents, so he was on notice and that will bolster the case and help prove intent if prosecutors charge Trump.'

Trump's lawyers have already handed over 15 boxes of documents that were supposed to be given to the National Archive when he left office but ended up at Mar-a-Lago instead.

At the time of the transfer, back in January, they brushed it off as a mistake - saying the White House was packed up in a 'hurry' because Trump was busy contesting the result of the election and didn't want to clear out sooner.

The National Archive later confirmed that some of the documents Trump handed back were classified, and said his legal team were still 'searching' for more records.

The ex-President hit back, telling reporters in February: 'The National Archives did not ''find'' anything.

'They were given, upon request, Presidential Records in an ordinary and routine process. If this was anyone but ''Trump,'' there would be no story here,' he said.

'Instead, Democrats are in search of their next scam.'

Trump and his legal team were not made aware of Monday's raid ahead of time, with son Eric revealing he was the one who got the call about it and passed the information on to his dad - who was in New York at the time.

Secret Service agents protecting the house are thought to have been given an hour's notice before the warrant was served around 10am local time, and then helped the FBI carry out the search.

Agents spent several hours searching the property and are said to have left with 'several boxes' some time in the early afternoon.

News of the raid did not break until several hours later when Trump confirmed it himself, saying his 'beautiful home' had been placed under 'siege' by the FBI in what he called a 'dark day' for America.

Neither the FBI or Justice Department have said what the raid on Mar-a-Lago (file image) was about, what they were looking for, or whether anything was found

Eric said the raid had been orchestrated by the Biden White House in an attempt to discredit Trump ahead of the 2024 election, but a spokesman for the administration denied having any prior knowledge of it.

Investigations into the records are just one of a number of probes that Trump is facing over his time as president, his refusal to concede the 2020 race to Biden, and the January 6 storming of the Capitol Building by supporters convinced the election had been stolen.

The Justice Department is conducting a criminal investigation into the events of January 6, has charged hundreds of people with breaching the Capitol that day, and is said to be probing Trump's involvement in it.

Lawyers interviewing witnesses before a grand jury last month are said to have asked questions about Trump's actions between December 2020 and January 2021.

However, Attorney General Merrick Garland has repeatedly refused to confirm or deny looking into Trump when questioned about the probe.

Prosecutors are said to have focused on meetings between those dates, attempts to pressure Vice President Mike Pence to overturn the results, and what instructions he gave to lawyers and advisers about placing 'fake' electors in states Biden won.

Meanwhile the House Select Committee in Congress is conducting a series of hearings into the lead-up to January 6, and is interviewing high-ranking members of the Trump administration about attempts to overturn the election result.

Mike Pompeo, Trump's former Secretary of State and an ally while in office, is due to speak this week alongside Douglas Mastriano, Republican nominee for Pennsylvania governor who helped lead efforts to challenge that state's election result.

The state of Georgia is also conducting a separate grand jury investigation into Trump's efforts to challenge the election outcome there, while two separate investigations in New York are looking into Trump's finances.
Vegans have accused protestors of 'embarrassing the cause' after an activist group poured milk all over the floor of Harrods in an anti-dairy protest.

Animal Rebellion, an off-shoot of Extinction Rebellion, poured milk out of cartons in the food hall of the Knightbridge department store's food hall in a protest last month against the dairy industry - before sharing the footage of the protest on social media.

The group were forcibly removed after covering the luxury store's floor with milk which they claim was done to highlight the environmental impacts of the dairy industry.

But vegans on social media have condemned the group's actions, saying they 'made us look like fools' and it was 'detrimental rather than helpful'.

Members of Animal Rebellion, which is an off-shoot of Extinction Rebellion, staged the protest against the dairy industy

The group poured the milk out the cartons one-by-one, and a woman (pictured) can be heard saying, 'why are you doing this? It's disgusting'

One account started the conversation saying: 'Am I the only vegan who was seriously disturbed rather than impressed by the Harrods milk protest?

'Surely there are other ways than direct wastage of an animal product, I feel like it just makes us look like hypocrites.

'Maybe I am missing something here but the whole thing made me feel ill and I feel that is detrimental rather than helpful to our cause.'

Other accounts were quick to voice their agreement, with one saying they 'didn't get it' and it made 'vegans look like fools'.

Another account said: 'The mere idea of that protest angers me.

'It's hypocritical at best.'

The activists targeted one of the most iconic department stores in the world by carrying out their protest in Harrods in Knightsbridge

Members of Animal Rebellion poured milk in the food hall. Pictured is the store's roastery, which received a makeover in 2018

Twitter users were also quick to point out that the protestors - who also staged sit ins at other supermarkets and cleared shelves of milk and dairy products - were only making 'a mess for the cleaners to clean up' and making it 'dangerous for disabled customers'.

One twitter user said: 'You didn't hurt the dairy industry here, you gave them a large new order.

'You hurt the workers at the store (who may be punished for the cost of the new order), you hurt poor and food insecure customers, you made it dangerous for disabled customers.

'What is wrong with you?'

Another said: 'Why do you clowns always make trouble for the working classes, never you're own?

Other vegans on reddit said the protest was 'embarrassing' with some saying it made them feel 'physically ill'

'You've just made an awful mess that the cleaners will take ages to clean for some ridiculous message no one cares about but a tiny handful of people, mostly toffs like you.'

American actor Travis Wester was also involved in the online backlash, telling Animal Rebellion, 'the next time you want to virtue signal with perfectly good food, I suggest you use it to feed the hungry'.

In the video of the protest which took place on July 27, the group are seen walking up to the milk section of the Food Hall in Harrods before pouring the milk out of the cartons onto the floor one-by-one.

Members of the group resist security removing them, with a number of people needed to physically remove the activists from the store.

A woman in the background can be heard saying, 'why are you doing this? It's disgusting'.

Animal Rebellion also occupied ' The Cheese Room' at a Waitrose store and other dairy aisles in London and Bristol.

Twitter users heavily criticised with the protestors actions, saying that it is down to 'low-wage workers' to clean up

Beau King Houston, one of the protestors at Harrods, said: 'We took this action in Harrods to show that we won't stand by as unsustainable, destructive industries wreak havoc on lives across the globe.

'Harrods is a symbol of the broken system we are living in.

'A system that ignores the needs and prosperity of everyone, in favour of politicians and their friends in business, but they could also be part of the transition to a better future.'

American actor Travis Wester was also involved in the backlash, telling Animal Rebellion, 'the next time you want to virtue signal with perfectly good food, I suggest you use it to feed the hungry'

Security had to forcefully remove the protestors, who chose Harrods to protest in as the luxury department store as 'it is a symbol of the broken system we are living in'

A Harrods spokesperson said: 'We are aware that five individuals staged a minor protest in the Harrods Food Halls.

'The individuals were swiftly escorted out of the store and no further action was taken.'
Members in the Lok Sabha during ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament, in New Delhi, Monday, Aug. 8, 2022. (Sansad TV/PTI Photo)

New Delhi: The government on Monday introduced the controversial Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2022 in the Lok Sabha and referred it to the parliamentary standing committee amid vociferous protests by the Opposition.

The Bill seeks the privatisation of electricity, on the lines of telecom services. It seeks to give consumers the option to choose the electricity supplier just like one can choose phone, mobile and Internet service providers.

Power minister R.K. Singh introduced the Bill and urged Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to refer it to a parliamentary standing committee for wider consultations to address the concerns raised by the Opposition parties.

Opposing the introduction of the Bill, RSP member N.K. Premachandran, Congress members Manish Tewari and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, CPI(M)s M.A. Arif, Trinamul member Saugata Roy and DMK leader T.R. Baalu said the draft legislation was against the federal structure of the Constitution.

Premachandran said electricity was on the Concurrent List and it was the bounden duty of the Centre to have effective consultations with state governments before introducing the Bill. Tewari said the Bill sought to allow multiple private firms to provide electricity in the same area, a provision that could lead to privatisation of profits and nationalisation of losses. He contended that the legislation also sought to reduce the role of the Centre in the distribution of electricity.

Roy and Arif said the Bill was contrary to the assurances given by the Modi government to the Samyukta Kisan Morcha, which had laid a year-long siege to the national capital demanding the rollback of agricultural reforms and shelving of the proposed amendments to the Electricity Act.

Baalu said the Tamil Nadu government was giving free electricity to farmers for the past several years and the proposed amendments could affect poor farmers who receive free power.

The power minister said that the Opposition members were indulging in false propaganda against the Bill. The farmers will continue to get free power. There will be no rollback of the subsidy, Singh said amid calls for wider consultations.

We have consulted the states and other stakeholders. This Bill is pro-people and pro-farmers, Singh said as he introduced the bill. The Opposition members demanded a division on the motion which was rejected by the Speaker. The Opposition resorted to sloganeering for a while and then staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha.

The Bill seeks to amend Section 42 of the Electricity Act to facilitate non-discriminatory open access to the distribution network of a distribution licensee. It also seeks to amend Section 14 to facilitate usage of distribution networks by all licensees under the provisions of non-discriminatory open access with the objective of enabling competition, enhancing efficiency of distribution licensees for improving services and ensuring the sustainability of the power sector.

Meanwhile, the Lok Sabha on Monday passed the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill that seeks to promote non-fossil fuel energy sources like biomass, ethanol and green hydrogen.
Charities are warning of a surge in holiday scams after a despondent mother was left 'absolutely gutted' when she drove 160miles for her first family trip away only to discover she had been conned by a cruel scam.

Have you fallen victim to holiday scammers? Send details and pictures to jacob.thorburn@mailonline.co.uk Advertisement

Amber Kmiotek had arranged the week-long caravan holiday in Skegness, Lincolnshire, for her 54-year-old mother Adele Green and five-month-old Riley using Facebook earlier this year.

Amber was left feeling excited about her long-awaited family holiday after exchanging messages and Facetime calls with the woman, who used the name Amiee and claimed to own an eight-berth caravan.

She paid the woman a 100 deposit and arranged to pay a further 200 when she arrived at the site.

She even received messages weeks ahead of the trip, asking her if she was excited for it to be going ahead.

But the family were left mortified after making the two-hour trip when they were abandoned at Skegness Sands caravan site when the caravan con artist failed to show.

Amber said: 'We were waiting over two hours, we were just absolutely gutted. It was my son's first holiday, we were right excited for this holiday.

'We realised after about half an hour, we thought it was shady, we sent over 100 calls and messages and she was reading all of them and going offline. It's beyond a joke.'

It comes as holidaymakers were warned scammers at home and abroad were advertising fake flights and false bookings to rake in thousands of pounds.

Data released by Lloyds Bank earlier this year revealed victims were losing an average of 2,955 each when being deceived by cheap flight offers, while those booking sham trips to hotels or caravan sites were also losing hundreds of pounds.

Amber Kmiotek had arranged the week-long caravan holiday in Skegness, Lincolnshire, for her 54-year-old mother Adele Green (left) and five-month-old Riley (pictured main) using Facebook earlier this year

Ms Green, (pictured) who has Parkinsons, and five-month-old Riley, also made the two-hour trip when they were abandoned at Skegness Sands caravan site when the caravan conman never turned up

After searching for staycations on Facebook, Amber decided to book the holiday as a treat for her, her mother and her young son.

She booked the Skegness caravan site because friends had opted for similar destinations and believed it would be safe.

Amber was approached by 'Amiee' on Facebook, who messaged her to advertise her caravan at a cheap price.

'She was texting me nearly every other day and was ringing me every so often to make sure we were coming and saying "I bet you're looking forward to it".

'She was so tied up and knew what she was doing so we couldn't tell that it was fake.

'We told her we'd pay 200 on the day. She kept asking us when we paid it and we said on the day so we knew she wouldn't rip us off and she said that was fine.'

But Amber said that her family, who had been accompanied on their trip by one of Adele's carers and his children, were left stranded at the static caravan park.

Texts between Amber and 'Amiee' that day reveal the trickster reassuring her that she was on her way to drop off the keys.

But the group were left waiting for two hours, after making the 160mile drive down from Doncaster, and leaving her devastated that her son's first holiday was in tatters.

Her ordeal is one of a crime that is rising in popularity and has experts concerned as families opting for cheaper deals at home are potentially being conned out of hundreds of pounds.

Industry experts have warned that fake caravan stay scams can cost more than 370 on average, and are forming a significant part of a scammer's arsenal of holiday cons following the lockdowns during the Covid pandemic.

Texts between Amber and 'Amiee' that day reveal the trickster reassuring her that she was on her way to drop off the keys

The woman who owns the phone that Amber received messages from denied she was called Amiee or that she had scammed the family.

She claims she's being impersonated by someone using her number and her partner's bank details and had contacted the police about the matter - though was unable to provide any crime reference number.

The woman admitted it was her in the pictures on the social media account - and Amber claimed the same woman in the photos had been who she had facetimed.

Skegness Sands, where the scammer claimed to have the caravan, had no sympathy for Amber and 'questioned why she had packed up her whole family' when they are a private owners-only site.

A Skegness Sands spokesman said: 'We would just like to make it quite clear that Skegness Sands is in no way connected to the supposed owner that took Amber's deposit.

'I have contacted Amber to take down the address part of her post as this caravan belongs to a private owner and is in no way connected to the situation and I do not feel it is fair for their address to be vilified.

'We received a phone call on 24th May to the office from a mother and daughter asking if we were a rental site as the lady said she had paid a deposit to an Amiee for a caravan and was checking they were legitimate - we told them that we are a non-rental site and just for private owners only so there was a very high likelihood that is wasn't legitimate.

'I'm not taking away the fact Amber has lost 100 but she was told back in May we were a non-rental site and she had her doubts then to ring us up.

'We did not give her any reason to think that her dealings with Amiee were legitimate so why she packed her whole family up and made the journey needs to be questioned.'

Amber and Riley are pictured squished together in their car as they crammed in their car among all of their holiday kit

Pictured: The bags Amber packed before embarking on her 160mile and two-hour trip to a Skegness caravan park

HOW TO AVOID HOTEL RENTAL SCAMMERS Experts advise travellers to - Ensure there are enough online reviews before booking online;

Check how long the property has been advertised;

Use Google Street View to check the property at road level;

Avoid wired money transfers and stick to credit card payments - which are traceable;

Ask for a written, formal contract before sending any money;

Check the property on arrival and photograph any damage. Advertisement

Trade body UK Finance earlier this year issued a warning to jet-setters to watch out for ticketing, travel and health insurance scams.

It said sophisticated phishing and fake social media adverts were on the rise as Britons begin hunting for holiday deals, while new street scams could take unsuspecting travellers by surprise in popular tourist destinations.

Liz Ziegler, Fraud Prevention Director at Lloyds Bank, said: 'With demand soaring and prices rising fast, would-be holidaymakers cant afford to let their guard down when hunting for the best deals.

'Scammers are ready to cash in on any last minute surge in bookings, so its vital that consumers know how to stay safe.

'Book directly with trusted sites or travel agents, avoid following links on social media, and always pay by card for the greatest protection.'

It comes as dozens of holidaymakers were left in the lurch when they turned up at the London home of woman after scammers put her address on Booking.com.

The victim, who only gave her first name as Gillian, had been at home in the north of the city on July 4 when a woman and her daughter knocked on her door saying they had booked the property.

After turning them away she then had to deal with dozens of other people who knocked on her door throughout the month.

They had come from all over the world, with some travelling from as far away as Saudi Arabia and Australia, only to find the place they had booked didn't exist.

Instead they had all been victims of a scam on Booking.com, where a fake listing duped them into thinking they had hired the woman's home for their trip abroad.
Marine biologists think climate change has led to a surge of the crabs in the UK

The gatherings normally take place in the warmer waters of the Mediterranean

Conservationists are urging visitors to continue enjoying Cornwall's beaches despite mass spider crab gatherings, insisting that the crustaceans are not 'venomous'.

Thousands of crabs have been seen carpeting the sea floor at popular tourist spots including Newquay, St Ives, Falmouth and St Austell in recent weeks.

The spider crab gatherings used to be rare in UK waters but Cornwall Wildlife Trust has described this summer as being 'unusually spectacular' for sightings, with the increased numbers likely a result of climate change.

The trust is encouraging people to go and see the underwater spectacle in action and have insisted that they are 'completely harmless to humans'.

Contesting claims that spider crabs have a venomous bite, Matt Slater, marine conservation officer at the trust, told MailOnline: 'They dont bite at all and their pinch is not serious - it probably wouldnt even scratch.'

He added: 'I've spent my whole career trying to get people to appreciate amazing marine animals like spider crabs.

'Reports of them being venomous are simply untrue and could damage their reputation. These animals are truly unique and are completely harmless to humans.

Spider crabs (like this huge one in Newquay) have been spotted across the Cornwall coastline this summer, as well as in Torbay and Wales

'Despite the many gatherings we've seen in places like St Ives, it's not that common to witness this kind of behaviour. I saw it for the first time in Falmouth last year and it was an unbelievable experience.

'Please go out, enjoy our coastline responsibly and admire these sensational spider crab displays should you be so lucky to see one.'

The Cornwall Wildlife Trust is also asking people to record any spider crab sightings with them to help identify their behaviour and migrations.

These patterns appear to have changed in recent years with numbers having surged in the UK.

The Cornwall Wildlife Trust has encouraged people to get out and see the underwater spectacle, insisting the crabs are harmless

What are spider crabs? The formidable-looking spiny spider crab is known for its characteristically long legs and claws which can span up to three feet. They can be seen all year in UK waters but more come inshore between April and August. The mass gatherings only occur in July and August. Spider crabs feed on shellfish and scavenge for carrion on the sea floor. They use their scissor-like claws to open up mussels and clams. While they are growing their new shells they are vulnerable to being damaged, so conservation officer Matt Slater said people should avoid touching them. He told MailOnline: 'Although they are edible there is no point in collecting them for food when they come inshore to moult as they are full of water and have very little meat.' Advertisement

Cornwall Wildlife Trust said it had just one confirmed gathering of the spiny spider crab, Maja brachydactyla, in 2021 whereas this summer they have been spotted in Torbay, Wales and numerous beaches around Cornwall.

The first confirmed sighting this year was in Carbis Bay on June 21.

Spider crabs gatherings were traditionally more common in the warmer waters of the Mediterranean Sea but marine biologists believe the boom in UK waters is a direct result of climate change and warming sea temperatures.

Mr Slater added: 'We hope that these mass sightings are a sign that spider crab populations are healthy.

'We would love to learn of more gatherings taking place around Cornwall's coastline.

'Our seas are full of surprises and there's still so much we don't know about them.'

Spider crabs have long, spiny legs and claws spanning up to one metre, giving them their spider-like look.

Each summer these distinctive creatures travel from deep to shallow coastal waters and congregate in huge numbers as they crack open their exoskeletons and grow a new outer shell.

They rally together to protect themselves from the threat of predators as they are extremely vulnerable during the moulting process.

Spider crabs are more common in the warmer waters of the Mediterranean Sea but this one was spotted at Porthgwidden Beach in St Ives

Spider crabs gather together to protect themselves from predators while they are shedding their shells and growing new ones. Left: Snorkel instructor Katie Maggs proving it is safe to snorkel over them. Right: An aggregation of crabs in St Ives, Cornwall

Katie Maggs, a BSAC snorkel instructor and volunteer for Cornwall conservation society Mounts Bay Marine Group who filmed one of the gatherings, said: 'The spider crab mass moulting looked like something you'd see in a tropical country, yet it's happening right here in Cornwall!

'I feel so lucky to have witnessed it first-hand.

'People often say to me they would never get to see our incredible marine life without me sharing my videos.

'I genuinely feel so lucky to be able to show people my snorkelling finds and I hope that it encourages people to want to protect our seas and learn more about them.'
Overall there was a fall in proportion of births to women born outside the UK

It is first time country has been in top 10 for both non-UK mothers and fathers

Albania in top 10 most common countries of birth for parents born outside UK

Albania has moved into the top 10 most common countries of birth for both mothers and fathers born outside the UK, new figures have shown.

In annual birth statistics for England and Wales last year, it was shown Albania is now the tenth most common country of birth for mothers born outside the UK.

The non-EU country is also now the eighth most common country of birth for fathers born outside the UK.

It is the first time Albania has been in the top 10 most common countries for both non-UK mothers and fathers.

According to fresh data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), Romania is now the most common country of birth for mothers born outside the UK.

Births to mothers from Poland saw the largest decrease in 2021, with an 8.6 per cent decrease.

For fathers born outside the UK, Pakistan remains the most common country of birth.

In annual birth statistics for England and Wales last year, it was shown Albania is now the tenth most common country of birth for mothers born outside the UK

For fathers born outside the UK, Pakistan remains the most common country of birth

The total fertility rates for UK-born women increased to 1.54 children per woman in 2021 across England and Wales, which was up from 1.49 children per woman in 2020

Britain's baby bust revealed: Timelapse maps show how birth rates have plummeted in the last decade Fascinating timelapse maps show how the birthrate in England and Wales has plummeted over the last decade, despite a small rise last year caused by an uptick in older mothers. Based on the latest Office for National Statistics data, they reveal how the fertility rate was 1.61 children per woman in 2021, slightly higher than the 1.58 in 2020. The slight increase in births last year was driven mainly by a jump in women in their early 30s having children, who had a rate of 1.07, up from 1.03 the year before. The sharpest increase was seen in women aged 35 to 39 (5 per cent). For comparison, women aged 20 and under saw a fall of 16 per cent. Experts believe the increase in older women giving birth is because they are leaving it until later in life to have children to pursue careers, as well as advances in IVF and other fertility treatments. Despite projections of a baby boom during the first year of the pandemic as couples were forced to spend more time together indoors, the birthrate sank to its lowest level. Advertisement

Births to fathers born in Poland had the largest decrease, falling by 10.3 per cent from 2020 to last year.

The proportion of births to Polish-born fathers has been decreasing since 2015.

Four in ten migrants crossing the Channel in small boats in recent weeks have come from Albania, according to a military intelligence report leaked to the Mail on Sunday.

It revealed a total of 1,075 Albanians crossed the Channel in small boats during a six-week period this summer  almost 40 per cent of those identified as making the perilous crossing.

Overall, the ONS data shows that last year more than one-third (34.2 per cent) of all children born in England and Wales had either one or both parents born outside the UK.

This was a decrease from 34.8 per cent in 2020.

The proportion of births in England and Wales in 2021 to women born outside the UK fell to 28.8 per cent from 29.3 per cent in 2020.

This was due to a higher number of births to UK-born women, the ONS said.

There were 445,055 births to UK-born women last year compared to 179,726 births to mothers born outside the UK.

There were 11,031 more births to UK-born women in 2021 compared with 2020.

For women born outside the UK, the total number of births remained similar to the number seen in 2020.

But there was a difference between England and Wales.

The proportion of births in England to mothers born outside the UK dropped from 30.2 per cent in 2020 to 29.6 per cent in 2021.

In Wales, the proportion of births to mothers born outside the UK increased from 11.8 per cent in 2020 to 12.4 per cent last year.

The total fertility rates for UK-born women increased to 1.54 children per woman in 2021 across England and Wales, which was up from 1.49 children per woman in 2020.

For non-UK born women, the total fertility rates remained the same at 2.03 children per woman.
A jealous ex-boyfriend busted into a Narcotics Anonymous meeting in Edgewater, Florida, Monday night, killing his romantic rival and briefly taking his ex-girlfriend hostage before killing her and then turning the gun on himself.

At about 7 p.m., Quinton Francis Hunter, 49, who has done time for illegal gunrunning and weapons possession, interrupted a rented group meeting for recovering addicts located behind 515 North Ridgewood Avenue, and killed Ian Greenfield, 59, immediately, according to Mahoney.

Hunter, 49, known on the street as 'Rags', who police said was angry that Greenfield was the the new man in 33-year-old Erica Hoffman's life, took her hostage while the other attendees fled the building.

Unhinged gunman Quinton Francis Hunter, 49, killed the new beau of his ex-girlfriend and then killed her before turning the gun on himself

Erica Hoffman, 33, was at the center of a lover's triangle that lead to the murder of her new love interest Ian Greenfield by her old boyfriend Quinton Hunter.

Ian Greenfield, 59, who has struggled with addiction for years, was gunned down during a Narcotics Anonymous meeting by a jealous ex-boyfriend

Hoffman and Greenfield, whose brother said he struggled with drug addiction for years, were helping each other through drug recovery.

Edgewater police surrounded the building and tried to negotiate with the unhinged man, but kept their SWAT team nearby.

Police Chief said that Hunter, who sports a distinctive claw-mark face tattoo, started a Facebook live broadcast while he was barricaded inside the building but did not say anything. Police believe that Hoffman and Greenfield were both dead at that point.

'We attempted to make contact with the suspect to negotiate; however, it was unsuccessful,' Mahoney said.

The special tactical unit was sent in, but the shooting was already done.

Large chunks of cinder block have been ripped apart during a SWAT team raid on a Narcotics Anonymous meeting where a gunman had taken his girlfriend hostage

Edgewater police tried to negotiate with the gunman who had taken his girlfriend hostage, but after he did not respond, the breached the door

A large black tactical vehicle could be seen outside the building where a gunman killed his girlfriend, another man and then shot himself after a brief standoff

The fateful Narcotics Anonymous meeting took place behind 515 North Ridgewood Avenue in Edgewater

Emergency vehicles blocked the road on Monday night as police tried to negotiate with a gunman who had killed a man and taken his girlfriend hostage. He ended up killing her and himself

'We breached the building and located three deceased, including the suspect,' the chief said.

A large black tactical vehicle could been seen in photos and footage from news reports parked at the back of the building after the murder-suicide.

The backdoor lay on the parking lot and chunks of cider block had been ripped from the doorway.

Hoffman and Greenfield were killed during the stand-off at the 'Bridge the Gap' meeting on North Ridgewood Avenue.

'At this time, we believe this is a domestic incident and there is not further danger to the public,' Mahoney added.

Hunter and Hoffman were in a relationship at some point, according to police.

Greenfield and Hoffman were friends, but it's not known if it was a romantic relationship, Fox 35 reported.

Narcotics Anonymous offers regular meetings for men and women who struggle with addiction where they can talk about their experiences and help each other stay off drugs.

Eric Lancaster, who runs Bridging the Gap, a social services support organization that rents the front office where the shooting took place said that the violence was 'very unusual.'

'There's never been anything like this before. They've been renting that space for a couple of years and there's never been any violence,' he said. 'They don't bother our space and we don't bother theirs.'

Edgewater, population 23,097, is a working class town about 20 miles south of Daytona Beach, Florida.
The traveling ICU nurse who killed six people in a horror crash in Los Angeles on Thursday after plowing her Mercedes 90mph through a busy intersection has a 'profound' history of mental illness and has been involved in 13 prior crashes, but was still somehow subcontracted to work in a hospital and allowed to drive.

Nicole Lorraine Linton, 37, is in custody on six murder charges as a result of Thursday's crash.

Among those she killed was pregnant Asherey Ryan, 23, her one-year-old son Alonzo and Reynold Lester, the father of Asherey's unborn baby, who also died.

Two other female victims remain unidentified.

Linton is from Houston, Texas, and was in Los Angeles working as a contractor at the Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Hospital. She was working for the nursing contractor group AMN Healthcare, which she joined in October 2020.

AMN Healthcare did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding Linton's credentials on Tuesday.

Until 2009, Linton was working as a sales manager for General Motors, according to her LinkedIn profile. She began working in healthcare in 2010 as an 'extern' at NYU, despite not completing her nursing degree in 2015.

Nicole Lorraine Linton, 37, is in custody on six murder charges as a result of Thursday's crash

Linton sped through a red light at 90mph, plowing into cars at a busy intersection on August 4th. Six people and one unborn baby were killed

In court yesterday, her attorney said she had a 'profound' history of mental health problems in other states.

He said they would have contributed to the crash, and asked for her arraignment to be delayed until October.

She did not have drugs or alcohol in her system, and her motive for running the red light and plowing through the intersection remains unclear.

Nicole L. Linton, 37, is being held on a $9million bond following the fatal car crash in Los Angeles

Prosecutors also revealed in court that Linton was involved in 13 prior road accidents, including one in 2020 in which two vehicles were totaled.

The crashes were cited by The Los Angeles Times yesterday but no further details have emerged.

DailyMail.com obtained crash records from two incidents in Texas - one in 2013 and one in 2016.

In both cases, another driver rear-ended her vehicle.

The California Highway Patrol declined to provide further details of any other crash.

It remains unclear why Linton was able to work in healthcare, let alone in the ICU, with such extensive mental health problems as her attorney described.

On Monday, she sobbed in court as she was charged with six counts of murder.

Linton was traveling at speeds of at least 90mph when she sped through a read light and hit crossing vehicles at the busy intersection of La Brea and Slauson Avenues.

Eight-month pregnant Asherey Ryan, 23, was pronounced dead at the scene alongside her one-year-old child Alonzo Luchiano Quintero and her unborn baby boy following the horrible crash.

The unborn child's father, Renald, was also killed in the crash after the car split in half immediately on impact, those close to the family confirmed.

Graphic shows the direction the SUV was going in along South La Brea Avenue when it ran the red light and caused the horrendous crash

Victim: Asherey Ryan, 23, died in the fiery crash with her one-year-old child and her unborn child. Tributes have poured in for the mother, who was expecting another child this year

Victim: One-year-old baby boy Alonzo (pictured) was also killed in the horrific collision between South La Brea Avenue and Slauson Avenue on Thursday afternoon

Victim: The father of the unborn child Reynold Lester (right) also passed away in the deadly crash

The shocking footage, taken from a gas station overlooking the scene, starts as the Mercedes coupe races past the pumps at blistering pace

The doomed vehicle fails to break as it bears down on the traffic flowing both ways across the packed intersection

Tabia Johnson, a witness to the crash, took a photo of the suspect, Nicole L. Linton (center), commenting that Linton only appeared to suffer minor injuries in the horrible crash

Linton was working as a sales manager for General Motors until 2009, when she launched her nursing career

Asherey, Renald, and little Alonzo were on their way to a doctor's appointment for a pregnancy check-up when Linton smashed into the car they were traveling in.

'A young family was destroyed in the blink of an eye,' Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon said Monday.

'Theres catastrophic damage to the families and friends of those killed and injured.

'Its not only a tremendous loss to their families, but to our entire community, who learned of this incredible tragedy who watched the now viral video of the collision.'

Two other women remain unidentified. No one from Linton's family has yet spoken out.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Chinese Pesident Xi Jinping a 'scared bully' as Beijing continues its military drills around Taiwan following her trip to the island.

'I think that he is in a fragile place,' she told MSNBC's Morning Joe on Tuesday morning, referring to the forthcoming elections in China. 'He is acting like a scared bully.'

Xi is expected to get an unprecedented third term as Chinese leader. China has been conducting military drills around Taiwan in a blatant show of force as part of their fury about the speaker's stop on the island.

Pelosi defended her visit to Taiwan, which infuriated the Chinese, and said she would do it again.

'Absolutely. Without any question,' she told NBC's Today show when asked.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi called Chinese Pesident Xi Jinping a 'scared bully' as she defended her visit to Taiwan last week

China conducted ballistic missile launches and simulated sea and air attacks in the skies and seas surrounding Taiwan

Pelosi did a media tour Tuesday morning to discuss her trip. She was also at the White House to join President Joe Biden for his signing of the CHIPS act into law. The Biden administration was said to be unhappy about her visit although officials publicly defended the speaker's right to go there.

It is unclear if the speaker and the president discussed her 24 hour stop on the island.

Self-governed Taiwan's 23 million people live under the constant threat of invasion by authoritarian China, which views the island as its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary.

'The people of Taiwan welcomed the visit. The Chinese government may not have. But China will not be allowed to isolate Taiwan,' Pelosi told NBC.

She went on to say on Morning Joe: 'I don't think the president of China should control the schedules of members of Congress, or anyone else who wants to visit Taiwan. He's trying to isolate Taiwan.'

'We didn't go there to talk about China. We went there to talk about Taiwan,' she added.

She landed in Taipei last Tuesday as part of a longer tour of South East Asisa.

This weekend China conducted ballistic missile launches and simulated sea and air attacks in the skies and seas surrounding Taiwan.

China's Eastern Theatre Command said on Monday it would conduct fresh joint drills focusing on anti-submarine and sea assault operations.

The Biden administration had urged Beijing not to use Pelosi's visit to Taiwan as an excuse for a military response.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last week: 'I hope very much that Beijing will not manufacture a crisis or seek a pretext to increase its aggressive military activity. We countries around the world believe that escalation serves no one and could have unintended consequences that serve no one's interests.'

Chinese Pesident Xi Jinping is expected to get an unprecedented third term as Chinese leader

Speaker Nancy Pelosi joined President Joe Biden for his signing of the CHIPS act into law

Speaker Nancy Pelosi defied repeated warnings from the Chinese not to visit Taiwan; she landed there last Tuesday

Meanwhile, Biden administration officials told Bloomberg that the White House was fuming over Pelosi's unannounced visit to Taiwan.

They said senior members of the National Security Council and State Department officials tried to discourage her from the visit but she refused to call off the trip which enraged Beijing.

Biden officials accused Pelosi of using the trip as a 'capstone for her career' at a moment of highly delicate relations with Beijing, according to Bloomberg.
Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones sent Trump ally and known swinger Roger Stone a naked photo of his wife, the attorney representing families of Sandy Hook victims has revealed  noting he is unsure whether she gave consent to send the picture.

The racy photo was included in a trove of messages Jones was shocked to find his attorney accidentally sent to the lawyer representing the families of Sandy Hook victims, which he claims, proved Jones was lying under oath.

For years, Jones claimed that the 2012 shooting was a hoax and the children who were killed were 'crisis actors,' but after Mark Bankston told Jones he had a record of his text messages, the Infowars host could be seen visibly squirming in his seat.

Jones, 48, was later ordered to pay $50 million to two families in punitive and compensatory damages during the deformation trial, and his texts are now under scrutiny by the House select committee investigating the January 6 insurrection.

It is unclear what the House committee hopes to find in this trove of messages, but Jones has previously admitted that the text messages contained a naked photo of his wife, as his ex-wife, Kelly Nichols, said he is 'truly mentally ill' and 'should be protected from himself and others.

'He doesn't have any moral compass,' she said. 'He lives in his own universe. He's a very delusional man.'

Mark Bankston, an attorney representing the families of victims killed in the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting, revealed on Monday that Alex Jones sent Roger Stone a naked picture of his wife

In a rant on his radio show, Infowars, on Saturday, Jones said: 'I mean, there was a photo I sent my wife of her naked. OK, they got that, so my wife looks pretty good.

'The point is, there is one naked picture of my wife in there, so that's what they got! No d**k pics, no nothing.'

But on Monday, Bankston revealed to The Young Turks Network that the photo was actually sent to Trump aide Roger Stone.

'Mr. Jones said there was also an intimate photo of his wife on the phone,' he said. 'That I could also confirm, that's true.

'And I normally wouldn't talk about that in public, but there is a public interest angle to this that I'm a little concerned about, because that intimate photo was sent to Roger Stone and I don't know if that was consensual.

'And if it wasn't consensual, Mrs [Erik] Wulff Jones should know about that. And there might be something that needs to be done about that,' Bankston said of Jones' wife, to whom he was married in 2017 and shares one child.

'Then again, it could totally be consensual,' Bankston said. 'But when I see that  and I don't see any indication that it was  I'm concerned something might not be on the up and up with that. There are certainly laws in certain states about that.'

Bankston said he is not sure whether Jones' wife, Erika Wulff Jones (right), was aware of the text message. The couple were married in 2017 and share one son. Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones is pictured left

Roger Stone (pictured), a former campaign adviser to ex-President Donald Trump, suggested on Telegram that Jones sue his attorney for releasing two years worth of his text messages

Making matters worse, Stone and his wife have previously been outed as swingers.

In 1996, when Stone was working for Bob Dole, he and his wife Nikki are said to have approached an undercover journalist at a private swingers club in Washington DC.

Members said they were regulars at the club, and one man claimed that Stone had struck up a conversation with him at a Republican fundraiser on Capitol Hill in the winter of 1994 and asked 'whether my wife and I like to have a good time.'

Stone then allegedly handed him a photo of Nydia and said, 'Keep it. It has our phone number on the back. If you want to have a good time with us, call us.'

Not only were the Stones identified as swing club aficionados, they were also linked to personal advertisements to meet other couples and single men in what was reported as some 70 swinger magazines and at least one website.

In one such publication, Local Swing Fever, and on a website advertisement paid for using one of Stone's credit cards, the copy read: 'Hot, insatiable lady and her handsome body builder husband, experienced swingers, seek similar couples or exceptional muscular well-hung single men.

'She's 40DD-24-36; he's 195, trim, blonde, muscular and 8' +. Prefer military, bodybuilders, jocks. No smokers or fats please. Photo and phone required. R&N....We are interested in DC, VA. MD, NYC, Miami, and LA.'

The suggestive photos, which first appeared in The National Enquirer in a September 1996 issue with the headline, 'Top Dole Aide Caught in Group-Sex Ring,' showed Roger Stone naked from the waist up with a black bar over his eyes, presumably to hide his identity.

His wife, Nydia Stonek, was photographed in thigh high stockings, with one leg up, and wearing a revealing teddy displaying her breasts.

In another photo, in which she faces the camera, her breasts are fully exposed, but the Enquirer placed a 'CENSORED' bar across them.

While the Stones weren't doing anything illegal or criminal as swing club regulars, his activities were viewed as hypocritical and immoral as he espoused conservative views.

Roger Stone, 66, and his wife Nydia, who went by the pseudonym 'Nikki', were regulars of the notorious private sex club Capitol Couples in Washington D.C. in the mid-1990s

Stone has since become good friends with Alex Jones, after the two met at a 2013 event in Dallas marking the 50th anniversary of the JFK assassination, according to Business Insider.

The revelation about the intimate photo comes just days after Stone urged Jones to sue his own lawyer for releasing two years worth of his text messages to Bankston.

'Note the first line in the bio of the lawyer representing Alex Jones,' Stone wrote on Telegram Friday afternoon, pointing out that the lawyer, F Andino Reynal, had been appointed as a federal prosecutor by former Obama administration Attorney General Eric Holder.

'Now do you think his release of Jones' text messages was "inadvertent" or a mistake?' Stone asked, rhetorically, adding: 'If I were Jones, I would sue this guy for the exact amount that the jury finds against him.'

And on Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, Insider reports, Stone said there is nothing 'improper' about the text messages.

He said that there are no discussions about January 6 in the messages, even though they are now under investigation by the House select committee investigating the insurrection.

'The FBI and DOJ have seen my text messages with Alex Jones long ago,' Stone wrote on the social media platform. 'Nothing improper of "intimate" about them.'

He added: 'Alex Jones has been a loyal friend throughout the Soviet-style show that I was subjected to by Mueller as well as my wife's battle with cancer.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to Alex Jones and Roger Stone's attorney for comment.

Stone and Jones have been friends since they met in Dallas in 2013 for the 50th anniversary of the JFK assassination. They are pictured here attending the hearing of Google CEO Sundar Pichai on the company's transparency back in 2018

Bankston apparently caught Jones by surprise when he revealed during cross-examination last week that the defendant's lawyer accidentally sent him a vast tranche of text messages - which Bankston said proved Jones lied under oath.

'Mr. Jones, did you know that 12 days ago, your attorneys messed up and sent me an entire digital copy of your entire cellphone with every text message youve sent for the past two years?' Bankston asked in the now-viral moment from the trial.

The parents of the Sandy Hook victims ultimately wound up winning their defamation suit against Jones following the admission.

He had claimed that the children who were killed in the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary shooting were crisis actors, and made a host of other inappropriate remarks about the shooting.

Jones was ordered to pay nearly $50 million to the two families in punitive and compensatory damages.

Bankston caught Jones by surprise last week when he revealed that Jones' attorneys accidentally sent him a trove of Jones' text messages showing he lied under oath. He was ordered to pay nearly $50 million to the two families in punitive and compensatory damages

The text messages have now been sent to the House select committee investigating the January 6 Capitol attack.

Lawmakers of the bipartisan panel were handed the messages to and from Jones, CNN reported, as they draw links between the US Capitol riot and Donald Trump's and his allies' attempt to overturn the 2020 election.

Jones had been a key promoter of the ex-president's election fraud lies and is accused by the committee of having helped plan his Stop the Steal rally at the White House Ellipse shortly before the riot.

He was also present on US Capitol grounds on January 6 but did not enter the building, according to a letter from committee Chair Bennie Thompson sent to Jones in November 2021.

Jones has previously testified remotely in a closed-door meeting with the January 6 committee, revealing on his radio show afterward that he invoked the Fifth Amendment against self-incrimination 'almost 100 times.'

'The questions were overall pretty reasonable. And I wanted to answer the questions,' he said at the time.

'But at the same time, it's a good thing I didn't, because I'm the type that tries to answer things correctly, even if I don't know all the answers, and they can then kind of claim that's perjury.'

It remains unclear what the members of the January 6 committee hope to obtain from the new trove of texts, or whether they will lead to further questioning.

'We know that his behavior did incentivize some of the January 6 conduct and we want to know more about that,' Rep. Zoe Lofgren, a member of the panel, told CNN.

'We don't know what we'll find in the texts because we haven't seen them. But we'll look at it and learn more, I'm sure.'

The January 6 committee is now reportedly in possession of Jones' text messages

If the texts prove useful the texts could play a starring role in the committee's next round of hearings this fall.

'In the course of these hearings we have received new evidence, and new witnesses have bravely stepped forward,' Liz Cheney said at the end of the committee's ninth overall hearing on July 21.

'Efforts to litigate and overcome immunity and executive privilege claims have been successful, and those continue. Doors have opened, new subpoenas have been issued, and the dam has begun to break.'

She added: 'We have far more evidence to share with the American people, and more to gather. So our committee will spend August pursuing emerging information on multiple fronts before convening further hearings this September.'
Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida was raided by the FBI on Monday night, the former president revealed in a furious and lengthy statement.

The unannounced search was related to White House documents sought by the National Archives, his son Eric Trump told Fox News later that night.

Federal agents 'ransacked' his father's office, he said, and in his own statement the former president accused them of breaking into his safe.

But Trump's issues with the National Archives reportedly began before he even left office.

Politico reported in 2018 that aides were forced to follow the then-president around to tape back documents that he had shredded - a habit the Republican was known for during his prior life heading the Trump Organization - in fear of running afoul of record-keeping laws.

And late last year, Trump attempted to slow the release of presidential documents from the National Archives to the House select committee investigating the January 6 attack.

It's not clear what specifically is being investigated, but it's worth noting there are laws on the books against tampering and destruction of classified presidential records.

Below is a timeline piecing together reports of the former president's legal battle with the Capitol riot committee over his documents, which appeared to run parallel to the National Archives' own efforts to recover classified pages from Trump.

The New York Times reported on Tuesday afternoon that the two are not related.

Trump sues January 6 committee to block National Archives records

In October 2021, the former president launched a lawsuit against the Democrat-led House panel and the National Archives to block the release of White House records linked to last year's Capitol riot.

Trump's lawyers called the probe a 'fishing expedition' in a 26-page lawsuit filed in mid-October.

The attorneys had also requested that the National Archives send Trump's team any documents that could be relevant for review.

Trump lost the case along with two subsequent appeals later that year.

FBI agents with a search warrant raided Trump's Mar-a-Lago retreat in Palm Beach, Florida on Monday morning

The above timeline highlights just some of former president Donald Trump's battles with the National Archives since leaving office, including an unrelated court fight with the January 6 committee

Supreme Court shuts down Trump's bid to block documents, National Archives says it will turn them over

The January 6 committee revealed on January 19 that it had begun receiving documents from the National Archives that Trump 'had hoped to keep hidden.'

It happened the same day as the Supreme Court rejecting Trump's last-ditch request to shield his records.

Nine justices voted against the former president, including three who he appointed to the bench.

Only Clarence Thomas, whose wife Ginni is now being investigated by the committee over her efforts to push Trump's election fraud claims, voted in Trump's favor.

In addition to his own documents, the tranche also included records belonging to White House legal counsel, ex-adviser Stephen Miller and ex-Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, The Guardian reported.

National Archives reveals some Trump records were 'torn up'

The record-keeping body confirmed to the Washington Post on January 31 that the documents it handed to the January 6 committee 'included paper records that had been torn up by former President Trump.'

At this point the National Archives had reportedly handed more than 700 pages to the committee.

Anti-media and pro-Trump protesters stands across the waterfront from Mar A Lago. President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate after it was raided by FBI agents on Monday

Not all of them had been taped back together at the time of the committee's receipt.

'These were turned over to the National Archives at the end of the Trump Administration, along with a number of torn-up records that had not been reconstructed by the White House,' the Archives reportedly said.

Trump's 15 boxes of sensitive White House documents

The next month, the National Archives revealed that Trump had taken 15 boxes full of White House records to his Mar-a-Lago retreat after leaving Washington, DC the year before.

Officials from the Archives and the Records Administration had to retrieve the boxes this past January.

It was first reported by the Washington Post on February 7.

Items that were improperly taken and had to be retrieved included what Trump called 'love letters' exchanged with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un.

A letter from then-outgoing President Barack Obama to Trump when he first took office was also among the trove.

National Archives asks Justice Department to probe Trump record-keeping

Two days after it was revealed that Trump took 15 boxes of White House documents to Mar-a-Lago, the National Archives stepped up its enforcement by asking the Justice Department to probe the ex-president's handling of the sensitive pages.

The Archives asked President Joe Biden's DOJ to investigate whether Trump violated the Presidential Records Act, a source told CNN on February 9.

The Washington Post reported the next day that some of the files in the 15 boxes the Archives had retrieved were marked as 'top secret' - spurring security concerns.

The former president was at Trump Tower in New York City when his home was raided, his son Eric Trump told Fox News that night

Trump released a lengthy statement claiming he was 'under siege' and that federal agents broke into his safe

At the time, Trump's spokesman Taylor Budowich said the records retrieving process was 'normal and routine' but was being 'weaponized by anonymous, politically motivated government sources to peddle Fake News.'

Report details months-long effort to retrieve Trump documents

It follows a June visit by DOJ official Jay Bratt and two others to Mar-a-Lago to inquire about the documents

While the controversy between the former president and government record-keepers only gained steam earlier this year, a February 13 CNN report reveals that the National Archives knew as early as May 2021 that documents had been missing.

National Archives counsel Gary Stern reportedly first contacted an official in the White House who had been named the point-person for records-keeping matters.

Stern apparently reached out to one of Trump's other lawyers after his efforts to get the records appeared to be slow-walked.

At the time of the February report, one person told CNN the matter had 'not been fully resolved' and the National Archives was still seeking more documents from Trump.

'Former President Trump's representatives have informed NARA that they are continuing to search for additional Presidential records that belong to the National Archives,' the Archives said in a statement.

Classified documents were among the 15 boxes Trump took, National Archives says

A week later, the National Archives confirmed an earlier Washington Post report that top secret documents were among the trove that Trump took to Mar-a-Lago with him.

The body said in a statement published on February 18 that it was 'in communication' with the DOJ on Trump-retrieved documents that were 'marked as classified national security information.'

In response to letters from the House Oversight Committee seeking more information on the matter, the Archives revealed the sensitive nature of the documents and added that social media and other online records from White House aides had not been properly stored.

The body said Trump aides had been warned about the matter previously.

DOJ summons grand jury in National Archives probe and grills Trump staffers

After months of silence, the Justice Department was revealed in May to be investigating whether Trump or others mishandled classified White House documents.

The DOJ convened a grand jury in the probe, the New York Times reported on May 12.

Prosecutors had subpoenaed the relevant documents from the National Archives, and CNN revealed they questioned Trump aides in April and May of this year.

Merrick Garland's top officials sit down with Trump lawyers in Mar-a-Lago

Four top DOJ officials traveled to Mar-a-Lago in early June to speak with the former president's attorneys about the documents, it was reported the day after the FBI raid.

In revealing the visit CNN noted how 'rare' in nature it was.

The DOJ's counterintelligence and export control section chief Jay Bratt was reportedly among the group who sat down with Trump's lawyers.

Trump's team had also shown the government officials where Trump were storing documents.

Investigators reportedly observed that some of the files there were marked as classified.

At one point the former president himself reportedly stopped in to say hello and 'make small talk' before leaving again.

Trump staffers padlock documents room in Mar-a-Lago

Days after the investigators' visit, they reportedly sent a letter to Trump's staff asking them to secure the room where they observed the documents being stored.

Aides padlocked the area, according to CNN.

Feds raid Mar-a-Lago on Monday morning

It was reported that the FBI's operation at Mar-a-Lago occurred in the early hours of Monday morning.

The ex-president had been at Trump Tower in New York City at the time. His son Eric Trump told Fox he informed his father of the raid.

CNN reported that federal agents' activity was exclusively kept to the portions of the club where Trump's office and residence are.

The former president claimed he was a victim of political persecution in a statement that revealed the unannounced search to the public.

'These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents,' Trump said through his Save America PAC.

'I stood up to America s bureaucratic corruption, I restored power to the people, and truly delivered for our Country, like we have never seen before. The establishment hated it. Now, as they watch my endorsed candidates win big victories, and see my dominance in all polls, they are trying to stop me, and the Republican Party, once more. The lawlessness, political persecution, and Witch Hunt must be exposed and stopped.'
Nazi symbols are one step closer to be being banned in NSW after legislation criminalising their use passed the state parliament's lower house on Tuesday.

It follows a ban of the Nazi swastika in Victoria, and pledges by the Queensland and Tasmanian governments to prohibit the hate symbol.

NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman said the Nazi swastika harmed and distressed community members, including those of the Jewish faith.

The Nazi swastika could be banned from public display in NSW after legislation passed the lower house (pictured, bandana with the swastika at a shop in WA)

'Hateful and vilifying conduct is completely unacceptable in our community,' he said on Tuesday.

The legislation, which now must pass state parliament's upper house, allows the use of the symbol for religious and education purposes.

Using or displaying Nazi flags or Nazi memorabilia bearing swastikas will be banned under the law.

Individuals would face 12 months in prison or an $11,000 fine for breaking the laws, while corporations faced $55,000 fines.

Victoria passed legislation banning the public display of the swastika in June. The Queensland and Tasmania states governments have pledged to ban the symbol as well (pictured, a man wearing a swastika armband at a market in Melbourne)

NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman (pictured) said the swastika distressed community members and was 'unacceptable in our community'

In an amendment to the legislation, a review of the laws would need to be held within a three-and-a-half year period of them coming into effect.

Earlier this year, a NSW parliamentary inquiry recommended banning the symbol in a move that was welcomed by Jewish and Hindu groups.

In 2020, NSW police received 31 reports of the display of Nazi flags, including one from a home near a Sydney synagogue.
At least four people were reportedly injured from razor lacerations after a gun fight broke out onboard the Block Island Ferry between riders who had been picked up from a popular beach bar.

The brawl started while the ferry was heading back to the Port Judith ferry terminal in Narragansett, Rhode Island, WJAR News reported. It left the area around 11.30pm.

At least a dozen police officers remained on-site for several hours, Fox 3 confirms.

The total amount of casualties is unknown, as well as the severity of the injuries.

Dramatic footage on social media shows police officials jump off of a vessel and onto the operating ferry to respond to the incident.

Another clip shows three people in handcuffs being escorted off the ferry following its arrival to shore, according to a video shared by ABC 6.

At least four people onboard the Block Island ferry were allegedly injured last night after a gunned fight broke out onboard, according to several news outlets. Footage of police officers making their way onto the moving ship was captured by riders

At least three suspects were escorted off the fery once it docked back to the Port Judith terminal in Narragansett, Rhode Island

One of the suspects was believed to have been armed with a gun, according to several outlets, but no law enforcement agency has confirmed that.

The Rhode Island State Police, the U.S. Coast Guard station at Port Judith and the Narragansett Police Department all responded at the ferry terminal.

DailyMail.com has contacted all three law enforcement agencies investigating the incident for comment.

A woman interviewed by WPRI12 claimed Block Island was overcrowded on Monday due to the all-day Reggae Fest at Ballard's Beach Resort - a popular destination for tourists looking to party.

She further said the event was 'body on body' and that she thought she'd be stuck on the island overnight as lines for returning trips to the mainland were packed.

'Block island, never allowing Reggae fest again lmao,' one person sharing footage of police escorting three suspects off the ferry on Twitter wrote.

A Twitter user recorded police inspecting the boat while it was still on its way back to mainland

At least a adozen of law enforcement agencies were at the ferry's terminal once it had arrived. Ambulances and police dogs were also on site

Emergency medical services and police dogs believed to be with the Rhode Island State Police were also at the ferry terminal, with the latter inspecting the ship.

The summer vacation spot, a quaint island about 9 miles off the mainland, is only accessible by ferry or plane.

Block Island is widely considered as a popular summer vacation destination for Northeasterners.

Rhode Island State Police told DailyMail.com that it will provide a press release on the incident later today.
Kochi: The Ernakulam district administration has urged people residing along the banks of Periyar river to remain vigilant after the Idamalayar dam was opened on Tuesday to discharge 50 cumecs of excess water.

The Cheruthoni and Mullaperiyar dams were already opened and the shutters were today raised to a higher level as the water inflow into the reservoirs were high.

The water level at the Mullaperiyar dam, which is managed by the Tamil Nadu government, is at 139.6 feet, prompting the authorities to raise 10 shutters by 90 cm each and three by 30 cm each discharging 2,216 cusecs of water.

Meanwhile the water level at the Idukki reservoir has increased to 2,387 feet and three shutters of Cheruthoni dam have been raised to 120 cm while two have been raised to 40 cm.

A red alert was issued in Idukki dam when the water level reached 2382.53 feet. The FRL of Idukki dam is 2,403 feet.

The Idukki reservoir consists of two dams, the Arch dam and the Cheruthoni dam and the shutters of Cheruthoni dam were opened for the first time in 26 years in 2018, to mitigate the worst flood faced by the state in a century.

The water level at Periyar river, where the water from these dams flow into are slowly increasing, district authorities said.

Currently the water level is at 2.335 m. The flood warning will be issued at 2.50m. It will cross the danger level when the water level reaches 3.76 m, district authorities said, adding that, the people residing along the banks of the river should remain vigilant.

Similarly, the Banasura Sagar dam in Wayanad has also been opened and the water level has gone up to 774.35 m. The authorities have opened two shutters by 10 cm.

On Monday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had asked the people to remain vigilant as major dams across the State have been opened and the water level in the rivers was likely to rise.

Vijayan had said that the state government has taken measures to evacuate people from areas where the water level is likely to rise but asked everyone to remain cautious as the water inflow to the dams and reservoirs are still strong due to rains in the eastern part of Kerala.

He had said that the water was being released in a controlled manner in strict adherence to the rule curve.
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Anne Heche visited a Venice Beach hair salon and 'randomly' bought a red wig just hours before she plowed her Mini Clubman through a house, the business owner has revealed.

Richard Glass, who runs Glass Hair Design, said the actress was acting like 'a sweet little girl', was 'very pleasant' and seemed sober during the flying visit at 10.35am on Friday.

He posted a picture of the pair and her bizarre purchase on his Instagram page but later admitted he originally mistook her for Orange Is the New Black star Lori Petty.

It comes as Heche remains bedbound in a Los Angeles hospital in a coma following the horrific car crash in the Mar Vista area of the city.

The 53-year-old actress is in an 'extreme critical condition' with a 'significant pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation and burns that require surgical intervention', according to her agent.

Her car erupted in an explosive fireball after driving straight through the building around 11am on Friday, with her being dragged out by hero firefighters who stretchered her into an ambulance.

Moments earlier she had pranged her Mini on the wall of a garage nearby and was snapped by a witness with a red-capped bottle that appeared to be vodka in the cup holder.

Anne Heche visited a Venice Beach hair salon and 'randomly' bought a red wig just hours before she plowed her Mini Clubman through a house, the business owner has revealed

It comes as Heche remains bedbound in a Los Angeles hospital in a coma following the horrific car crash in the Mar Vista area of the city

A photo from earlier on Friday shows Heche moments before the second accident at the wheel with a bottle of vodka with a red cap plonked in the cup holder

The 53-year-old suffered horrific burns during the collision and was recorded being dragged out of the mangled wreck by firefighters after it burst into flames in Los Angeles around 11 a.m.

An interior shot shows the Mini Clubman's airbag had blown out along with most of the decor being burnt through following the crash

Sharing the picture on Instagram, Glass wrote: 'So I met @anneheche today and she purchased a #redwig so random. I love Venice Beach.' He said he told her the wig was not cut, styled or washed but she did not care.

He later told the LA Times the actress 'grabbed my face' and cuddled it before asking if they had worked together in the past, which he said they had not.

The hairdresser said the whole encounter had been 'so strange' and 'very, very random' and he returned to cutting his other client's hair as they discussed Heche's relationship with Ellen DeGeneres.

Heche was still fighting for her life in hospital in 'extreme critical condition' after being trapped in the burning wreckage of her car for around 30 minutes.

A representative for Heche said yesterday: 'At this time, Anne is in extreme critical condition. She has a significant pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation and burns that require surgical intervention.'

The spokesman added in the statement: 'She is in a coma and has not regained consciousness since shortly after the accident.'

Earlier on Monday, newly released footage showed the moments before the crash in which Heche almost mowed down a woman.

She was recorded speeding down an alleyway and narrowly missing the pedestrian as she walked along the sidewalk in Mar Vista.

The woman, who has not been identified, whipped around in astonishment as the blue Mini Clubman raced past just before 11am.

This is the shocking moment Anne Heche almost mowed down a woman before she plowed through a house and her car exploded in Los Angeles

The actress, 53, was recorded speeding down an alleyway and narrowly missing the pedestrian as she walked down the sidewalk in Mar Vista

The woman, who has not been identified, turned around in astonishment as the blue Mini Clubman raced past just before 11 a.m. on Friday

Pictures and video showed her looking dazed at the wheel after the first crash, with a witness capturing her with a bottle with a red top on it in her car. It is not clear what was in the container but it looked like a vodka bottle

It comes as police insiders revealed Heche, who was intubated with horrific burns after the terrifying crash, is set to be investigated over the 90mph smash.

LAPD officers are poised to sample her blood from her hospital bed within the coming weeks to get to the bottom of whether she was under the influence while behind the wheel.

They said the minimum the actress could face is hit-and-run charges for the garage crash which saw her quickly take off despite being filmed by shocked witnesses.

A picture taken by a witness before the crash showed her in her blue Mini Clubman with a bottle with a red top on it looking glassy eyed.

Earlier, a somber image emerged of Lynne Mishele watching her house and 'an entire lifetime of possessions' burn down before her eyes.

A GoFundMe page set up for her by members of her westside Los Angeles community raised more than $50,000 in a single day after being created over the weekend.

The page details how Mishele, who is referred to as a 'kind and generous person', narrowly escaped death following the horrific crash but was forced to look on as her property crumbled amid the brutal blaze.

The goal of the GoFundMe page set up by neighbors John and Jennifer Durand is $100,000 to try to replace the memories lost in the fire.

Heche can be seen being removed from the scene on a stretcher and taken toward a waiting ambulance

Firefighters pick their way through the charred debris of Lynne Mishele's house after successfully extinguishing the blaze

Devastation is seen at Lynne's house after actress Anne Heche plowed 30ft into the property driving a Mini at high speed

Firefighters enter the property as large clouds of smoke billow from the scene of the high speed crash

Homeowner Lynne Mishele, seen in the maroon, stands across the street from her home looking dazed and confused after actress Anne Heche slammed a Mini into the side of her house and triggered a large fire

The page read: 'Lynne lives with her beautiful pups Bree and Rueban, and tortoise Marley in the Mar Vista home that was destroyed this week by a car driving into the home at a high rate of speed, catching the house on fire.

'Even more distressing is that Lynne lost her entire lifetime of possessions, mementos, all equipment for her business including her laptop and iPad, all of her clothing and basic necessities, and all household items.

'With firefighters' help, she was able to pull a few damaged sentimental belongings from the wreckage. Everything else is gone.'

Mishele's neighbor Lynne Bernstein told People Magazine that her friend was 'extremely fortunate' to survive. She added: 'So were the dogs and her turtle.'

Bernstein said that Mishele was luckily in a different part of the home than where the crash occurred. She described her initial reaction to the crash, saying: 'I don't think she got what was going on.

'She said, 'What happened? What happened?'' Bernstein also said that Heche's car went 'almost all the way through' the home and 'almost immediately' burst into flames.

According to her LinkedIn page, Mishele is the founder of Creative Organization, a company that helps to organize 'your home, your office and your life. We help you simplify everything!'

She describes herself as an 'effective organizing professional with expertise in approaching organizing issues with a creative outlook.

Mishele can be seen outside of her wrecked home in the minutes following the crash - Heche's Mini still on the right, waiting to be removed

Mishele can be seen, left, as she surveys the damage to her home

Mishele can been seen trying to salvage what she could after the fire was put out

Heche's blue Mini Clubman is shown on a doorbell camera speeding past a home along South Walgrove Avenue in the Mar Vista neighborhood around 90 miles per hour

According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the crash caused 'structural compromise and erupting in heavy fire'

'An innovative organizer that has a proven track record with establishing successful systems for each individual client.'

Mishele says on her LinkedIn page she founded the company in 1993. Previously, she worked as a travel director at Citigroup and as a marketing associate for Sony Pictures.

The entrepreneur is a graduate of the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York.

While on her Instagram page, Mishele regularly posts self-help videos. A few days before the accident that destroyed her home, she posted a video titled: 'Don't leave a burden for your loved ones.'

In the video, she encouraged her followers not to leave things to loved ones after they die without asking them first if they want the items.

Before the crash, a slurring Heche joked on a podcast about drinking vodka with wine chasers - claiming at the time that she was having a 'very bad day.'

Better Together, which she co-hosts, aired just hours before she crashed her car into the house. She and co-host Heather Duffy say Refined - a vodka distillery which sponsored one of their shows - gave them free alcohol.

'We each have a bottle in front of us because our friends sent us a bottle of Refined and I think we even did a bad commercial for them in the beginning of our days.

'Dr. Rahm said that we should be drinking vodka instead of wine,' Duffy says, to which Heche adds, 'and we listened, and we are drinking it.'

Duffy then reveals they are using wine to chase down the vodka, before Heche reveals: 'Today's been a very unique day.

'I don't know what happened, sometimes days just suck and I don't know if you ever have them [but] some days, those no good, very bad days, and some days days just end up like this.

'Sometimes days just suck and I don't know if you ever have them, but you know some days, Mama says just gonna be like this,' she continues. 'Some days there's those no good, very bad days.

'And I don't know why some days just end up like this, and things don't really rock me like that.'

She later revealed how she has had a tough week, explaining how people interrupted her meditating at her apartment. It remains unclear if the podcast was recorded on Friday, or if that is just when it aired.

In Friday's episode of Better Together, Heche appears to slur her words as she and co-host Heather Duffy tell the audience they are drinking vodka with wine chasers. The two co-hosts are pictured in an earlier podcast
The British pensioner killed in her St Lucia home in the middle of the night was a victim of a burglary, police suspect.

Diana Theodore, 72, was found in a pool of blood bound and gagged with a cloth tied around her head in the early hours of Saturday morning, near her dead dog.

A man who often sleeps at her home, which is fenced off and has an electric gate, raised the alarm after finding her body, according to local news outlet Loop.

No screams or sounds were heard by any neighbours despite some living as close as 50 yards away in the Choiseul community.

A source said a few hundred dollars and other items were stolen from the ransacked house, but police are yet to make an arrest.

Diana Theodore (pictured) has been killed in St Lucia with her body found tied up in a pool of blood under her bed

The pensioner was discovered at her house in Morne Sion (pictured), Choiseul, in the early hours of Saturday morning

Superintendent Luke Defraitus of the Major Crime Unit said: 'The Choiseul police received a report of burglary sometime after midnight.

'Upon arrival on the scene, the owner of the residence was discovered bound and gagged and was later pronounced dead. An investigation is on the way.'

Ms Theodore has been described by neighbours as a friendly woman who had no issue with anyone in the area.

The community activist mother-of-one had been living in St Lucia for more than 30 years.

A local resident told local news site Loop News: 'He came to us and said he has not seen her so we all went in search of her but did not find her.

The community activist mother-of-one had been living in St Lucia for more than 30 years and was reported missing by a friend (pictured, map showing her home in Morne Sion)

'We all went looking to try to find her as she is always at home. It is not like her not to be seen in this small village. She was friendly and has been living in Morne Sion for many years now.'

Another resident said: 'She was a very nice person, every time you see her, she would be smiling, her teeth always out.

'She's such a nice lady for her to have been treated that way,

'Everybody is just in shock and very sad because she is such a nice lady and did not deserve this at all. Things like that don't occur in Choiseul.'

Ms Theodore left the UK many years ago to settle in St Lucia where she was a community activist, and her daughter works in the UK as a university lecturer.

Ms Theodore left the UK many years ago to settle in St Lucia where she was a community activist

A Police spokesman in St Lucia said that they are investigating the murder.

They said: 'We got an early call today about a woman and her dog who were found dead in her house and are looking into this as a matter of urgency.'

The Saint Lucia National Trust (SLNT) has extended condolences to the family of the deceased, describing her death as tragic and untimely.

They said: 'Diana was a passionate and vocal advocate for Saint Lucia's natural and cultural heritage.

'She was a long-term member of the Trust who also served on Council and regularly contributed her ideas, concerns, and advice in areas of conservation and community interest.

'Diana will be sorely missed,' the SLNT statement said.
Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, was raided by the FBI on Monday, a high-profile move in the ongoing investigations into the former President.

While the FBI has not yet commented on why it conducted the raid, details indicate it was likely a part of an ongoing investigation into Trump's removal of sensitive White House documents at the end of his term.

FBI agents reportedly focused their search of the property on the former President's office space, removed papers and documents, and even broke open a safe.

The raid does not suggest that criminal charges are near or even expected  but the FBI would have needed a search warrant that was court authorized.

How the raid could effect the 2024 election remains to be seen, but if convicted of violating removing documents from the White House Trump could face up to three years and prison and be barred from holding public office.

A source close to the president told NBC the raid is only likely to galvanize the president to announce a 2024 bid.

The source also said the raid could spurn Trump to announce his candidacy in the hopes of shielding himself from prosecution through the long-held precedent that sitting presidents not be convicted of crimes.

Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort was raided by the FBI on Monday, a high-profile move in the ongoing investigations in to the form

Why is Donald Trump being investigated, and what is the evidence against him?

Trump is currently the subject of two FBI investigations - one into his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and his culpability for the January 6 Capitol riots, and the other into his removal of White House documents at the end of his term.

Though Monday's raid could be in relation to the January 6 investigation, previous actions by investigators indicate it is most likely a part of his removal of sensitive White House documents.

At the end of their terms presidents are required under the Presidential Records act to hand over all documents from their time in office to be stored in the National Archives. Another federal law, 18 U.S. Code  2071, forbids the 'concealment, removal, or mutilation,' of federal documents.

Sensitive documents were previously found at Mar-a-Lago when the National Archives removed at least 15 boxes of records from the Florida resort, it was revealed in February.

National Archives officials said in a letter to Rep. Carolyn Maloney, chair of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform which is overseeing the investigation, that they recovered 'items marked as classified national security information within the boxes' at the former president's home that month.

In the months following that discovery, Trump aides and attorneys were interviewed on numerous occasions in relation to other classified documents investigators thought the president was illegally holding, with a team of investigators even paying a visit to Mar-a-Lago in early June.

During that trip the investigators met with Trump's attorneys, Bobb and Evan Corcoran, according to CNN, and were brought to a room where a number of boxes marked 'Top Secret' were being stored.

Days later, Trump's attorneys were contacted by the investigators and asked to better secure the room they'd been shown. A padlock was reportedly placed on the door of the room.

Secret Service agents posted outside the gates of Mar-a-Lago during the FBI raid of the property on Monday

A police car stationed outside of the gates of Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort during the FBI raid on Monday

Why has the FBI raided Mar-a-Lago now?

Trump was in New York City at the time his Florida resort was raided. His son, Eric, said he received a call from investigators informing about the raid and that he then conveyed the news to his father.

Eric said he was informed on that call that the raid was a part of a National Archives investigation.

'The purpose of the raid, from what they said, was because the National Archives wanted to, you know, corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession,' he told Sean Hannity on Monday.

If Eric's account is accurate, it is very nearly certain the raid was a part of an evidence collection into the ongoing documents investigation.

The FBI is barred from taking any actions that could be politically influential within 90 days of an election, and the raid occurred nearly exactly 90 days from the November midterms.

Though Trump is not currently a government official he remains an overwhelming presence in the political arena. It is possible the FBI felt it was now or never to obtain evidence from Mar-a-Lago or else face the risk of compromising their ability to gather it later due to the 90 day election buffer.

Eric Trump reportedly received the call informing the Trumps about the FBI raid on Mar-a-Lago

The raid is also likely to solidify Trump's plans to run in 2024, a source close to the former president told NBC, and spurn him to announce his bid sooner rather than later

What charges could Donald Trump face and what does this mean if he decides to run for President in 2024?

If found to have violated the Presidential Records Act and federal law which prosecutes anyone who 'willfully and unlawfully conceals, removes, mutilates, obliterates, or destroys, or attempts to do so, or, with intent to do so takes and carries away,' the president could face up to three years in prison and be fined.

More importantly however is the stipulation in 18 U.S. Code  2071 which says anyone found in violation 'shall forfeit his office and be disqualified from holding any office under the United States.'

If found guilty of a violation of that code Trump would not be barred from running in 2024 - charges and convictions for most crimes does not disqualify one from being on the ballot - but he could be prevented from holding office even if he were elected to the presidency.

Trump has not yet officially declared his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election, though he has dropped strong hints over the past few months.

If he were elected and sworn in before being convicted, however, it is likely he could stay any repercussions owing to a long-held precedent that sitting presidents not be charged with crimes.

If he returned to the oval office it is also possible he could avoid any conviction altogether as he would have four years to maneuver and manipulate the personnel and workings department of justice and the FBI to his favor.

The raid is also likely to solidify Trump's plans to run in 2024, a source close to the former president told NBC, and spurn him to announce his bid sooner rather than later.

'If he wasn't running before, he is now,' the source said, 'It pisses him off that they can do this to him. One way to get it to stop is to control the government again.'
Burger King customers in the UK were emailed a blank receipt from the fast-food chain today despite not placing an order.

Thousands of Brits were sent a mysterious receipt from the restaurant at around 5:15am on Tuesday morning that read 'Your order will be ready to be picked up at Burger King'.

Although the total cost was left blank alongside the location of the order, the email read: 'While you're waiting for your food, let us know how you liked ordering online. It'll help us make the experience even better.'

Hundreds of panicked customers rushed to check if they're accounts had been 'hacked' and called their banks to report a fraudulent transaction - only to find they had not been charged.

Twitter has since been flooded with hilarious memes from users who mocked the restaurant for 'sending a passive aggressive email because you haven't ordered from them for a while'.

Meanwhile, Dominos Pizza was quick to mock the fast-food chain, tweeting: 'Confirming we also ordered nothing from Burger King.'

Confused Britons were sent a mysterious receipt (pictured) from the restaurant at around 5:15am on Tuesday morning that read 'Your order will be ready to be picked up at Burger King'

In response, Specsavers added: 'They should be ordering something from us ASAP.'

Joshua Butcher claimed he had emailed Burger King's support line and was told it was simply a 'technical error on their end' despite the fast-food chain not yet putting out a statement.

The email, posted to his social media account, read : 'I can assure you that you were not charged for this. This was a technical error on our end. Please disregard this email.'

Debbie Clapham, who lives in Cambridge, deleted the email upon receiving it because she 'assumed it was spam' - but questioned how they even had her details as she 'couldn't even remember registering with them'.

One Twitter user wrote: 'Thanks Burger King for the blank email receipt, really gave me a scare that someone hacked my account.'

Hundreds of panicked customers rushed to check if they're accounts had been 'hacked' and called their banks to report a fraudulent transaction - only to find they had not been charged (file image)

Another user, from Manchester, added: 'Burger King having me frantically check my bank this morning thinking I'd been scammed or something.'

Twitter user, Stephen, revealed he hasn't visited the chain in 'about nine months' and also questioned how Burger King had his email address.

Burger King customers in Japan, the United States, Britain and France have all reported receiving the 'suspicious' email.

MailOnline has contacted Burger King for comment.
Robert Lewin is best known for launching 1-800-411-PAIN, an attorney-referral service for victims of accidents

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A pair of neighboring Florida mansions that were built for identical twins are now on the market for $54 million.

Chiropractor Robert Lewin built one of the houses in Southwest Ranches for himself, his wife Lisa and their four daughters, and the adjacent one for his identical twin brother, Harley Lewin, and his two sons.

The stunning homes - one with seven bedrooms and the other with five - sit in 11 gated acres and are separated by a huge lake complete with fountains.

Robert Lewin is best known for launching 1-800-411-PAIN, an attorney-referral service for victims of accidents.

Robert said he and Harley have always lived close by - with the first homes they lived in as adults being four houses apart. He told the Wall Street Journal that being away from his brother is like 'trying to clap with one hand'.

'Being twins, we've always been so close, so it didn't feel right not living close to one another,' Robert said. 'Of course, during COVID, having our families together on this beautiful property was a great benefit and made it much more manageable.'

Completed in 2020, both residences were designed by architect Jeffrey Dungan with interior design by Josh Fein of Fein Zalkin Interiors.

Chiropractor Robert Lewin built one of the houses in Southwest Ranches for himself, his wife Lisa and their four daughters, and the adjacent one for his identical twin brother, Harley Lewin, and his two sons

The stunning homes - one with seven bedrooms and the other with five - sit in 11 gated acres and are separated by a huge lake complete with fountains

Completed in 2020, both residences were designed by architect Jeffrey Dungan with interior design by Josh Fein of Fein Zalkin Interiors. Pictured: The lounge area of the 13000 Lewin lane, where Robert lives with his wife and children

Pictured: The stairwell area of the 13000 Lewin lane, where Robert lives with his wife and children

Both homes in Lewin Lane in Southwest Ranches, Florida, have cinemas, infinity pools, hibachis - posh outdoor Japanese cookers - and fire pits

Robert's magnificent estate at 13000 Lewin Lane offers seven bedrooms including a staff bedroom and private guest house, eight full bathrooms including a full cabana bathroom, and two half-bathrooms

Robert's 16,980-square-foot home is situated on more than seven acres (pictured)

The stunning homes - one with seven bedrooms and the other with five - sit in 11 gated acres and are separated by a huge lake complete with fountains

Both homes in Lewin Lane in Southwest Ranches, Florida, have cinemas, infinity pools, hibachis - posh outdoor Japanese cookers - and fire pits.

Robert said they are selling the properties because their children are nearing college age. The estate is 'very large for just a few empty-nesters,' he told the newspaper.

Robert's magnificent estate at 13000 Lewin Lane offers seven bedrooms including a staff bedroom and private guest house, eight full bathrooms including a full cabana bathroom, and two half-bathrooms.

The 16,980-square-foot home is situated on more than seven acres.

It's got an interior elevator, state-of-the-art home movie theatre, separate private guest house, and his and hers office spaces.

The French transitional-style estate at 13001 Lewin Lane, owned by Harley, offers five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and one-half bedroom.

The 14,484-square-foot home is situated on more than three acres.

The home's outdoor area has an infinity pool overlooking the lake, and a large covered lounge area with hibachi grill, summer kitchen, fireplace, flat screen TV and fire pit.

There is a family room, game room and two separate air-conditioned two-car garages.

Robert said they are selling the properties because their children are nearing college age. The estate is 'very large for just a few empty-nesters,' he told the newspaper

The French transitional-style estate at 13001 Lewin Lane, owned by Harley, offers five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and one-half bedroom

The 14,484-square-foot home, owned by Harley, is situated on more than three acres. Pictured: The lounge area of 13001 Lewin Lane

The outdoor area of Harley's home has an infinity pool overlooking the lake, and a large covered lounge area with hibachi grill, summer kitchen, fireplace, flat screen TV and fire pit.

A drone picture shows one of the two French country-style mansions, which are on the market for $54 million

The French transitional-style estate at 13001 Lewin Lane, owned by Harley, offers five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and one-half bedroom

Pictured: 13000 Lewin Lane in Southwest Ranches, which is owned by Robert and his wife and children

Robert said he and his brother are thinking about living in the same house when they move. 'The umbilical cord will be reconnected,' he joked.

The online estate agent listing boasts: 'Being offered for the first time on the market this amazing resort-style compound in Southwest Ranches is truly like no other in all South Florida.

'Boasting over 11 acres of gated property with manicured grounds & offering two stunning, two-story French Country style mansions separated by a large private lake with fountains.

'These new homes are each unique by design, but equal in luxury, amenities, privacy, & comfort.

'No expense has been spared using only the finest materials and attention to every design detail featuring movie theaters, soaring ceilings, expansive living, dining, entertaining areas, & sumptuous bedroom suites.

Robert said he and his brother are thinking about living in the same house when they move. 'The umbilical cord will be reconnected,' he joked. Pictured: The outside of 13001 Lewin Lane in Southwest Ranches, where Robert and his family live

Pictured: From Harley's home on 13001 Lewin Lane, you can see Robert's mansion across the lake

Pictured: 13001 Lewin Lane in Southwest Ranches, Florida which is now for sale

'Outdoor areas made to entertain with infinity pools, covered lounges, summer kitchens, bars, hibachis & more.

'Must be seen in person to truly experience this property.'

Jill Eber of The Jills Zeder Group, which is marketing the homes, said: 'This spectacular assemblage of land in Southwest Ranches is a unique resort-style luxury compound and truly like no other in South Florida.

'Boasting two new beautifully designed French country-style estates on over 11 sprawling acres of expertly manicured grounds with a private stocked lake that you can fish.'
Pusey asked for $2million from insurers for 'trauma' he faced due to the crash

Prosecution said the images showed horrific fatal injuries suffered by the cops

Porsche driver Richard Pusey asked insurers for $2.2 million compensation over the 'trauma' of Melbourne's Eastern Freeway crash that killed four police, prosecutors claim.

Pusey is accused of uploading four graphic images from the April 2020 crash to an insurance complaint to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority last November.

The images showed horrific injuries suffered by the four officers, and one of the pictures didn't even show the damaged Porsche, prosecutor Anthony Albore revealed on Tuesday.

Richard Pusey (pictured) requested $2.2million from insurers due to the 'trauma' they faced when four police officers were killed on Melbourne's Eastern Freeway

Pusey, who uses they/them pronouns, is self-represented in a contested hearing, expected to last two days at Sunshine Magistrates Court.

The images were attached to the complaint seen by AFCA staffer Harry Ganavas.

'I felt repulsed and physically ill actually, at the graphic content of those photographs,' he said on Tuesday.

Pusey asked to see the images during the court hearing but magistrate Michelle Mykytowycz said he wouldn't be given copies of the distressing pictures.

In the complaint Pusey allegedly claimed 'nobody wants to own the (insurance) claim'.

'A truck mowed down four hero road safety officers  it broke a black Porsche and now these c***s (the insurers) won't pay out,' they allegedly wrote.

Pusey sought $2.2 million in compensation 'because of the trauma' of seeing the crash.

'Want to see the videos?' they allegedly wrote.

Constable Lynette Taylor (centre right), Senior Constable Kevin King (far left) , and constables Glen Humphris (centre left) and Josh Prestney (far right) were killed in the crash

Pusey, 43, is accused of uploading four images from the crash to an insurance complaint to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority last November (pictured, the aftermath of the crash on the freeway)

Mr Ganavas said he didn't understand the relevance of that to the complaint, adding that he again felt 'full of revulsion that someone would describe those matters in that way'.

AFCA closed Pusey's file, alleging the images amounted to egregious conduct.

Pusey is challenging two charges of using a carriage service in an offensive manner, over the AFCA complaint and over a Google review posted about Porsche Centre Melbourne.

It's alleged Pusey used an image of Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor on the roof of the car as the profile picture for the review.

'When you spend $330k to $550k on a car you expect to be able to extend the warranty on the car. Not here at Porsche Centre Melbourne,' Pusey allegedly wrote in the review.

'The staff are great at selling cars but fail dismally at anything else.'

The court heard that Pusey allegedly used a picture of Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor as the profile picture for a Google review posted to Porsche Centre Melbourne

A member of the public complained to police about the review to Sergeant Lorena Everett, who described being 'angry and outraged' at seeing the picture.

Pusey allegedly operated an Instagram account which had posted at least one picture of the damaged Porsche which was not graphic and did not show the crash scene.

That image could have been used in the review or complaint, Mr Albore said.

Pusey is also facing two charges of committing offences while on bail.

Asked to respond to the prosecution case, Pusey said 'they are telling a story'.

Pusey, who is in custody, appeared in court in person, pleading not guilty.

The hearing is due to continue on Wednesday.
Retired FBI Special Agent Michael Tabman told DailyMail.com it's likely an 'informant' revealed information to the FBI that led to the raid of Trump's home on Monday

The FBI raid on Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence on Monday was likely sparked by new information from an 'informant' and a breakdown in cooperation between the agency and former president, a former agent told DailyMail.com.

Retired FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael Tabman, who served the agency for 24 years, said a raid of this level of sensitivity would need to be approved by Attorney General Merrick Garland.

'I think somebody gave them information indicating that these documents are there,' Tabman said, adding two hypothetical 'insider' revelations: 'You have not been told the truth about their existence. You're not getting them unless you come get them.'

'I think there was inside information  call it an informant if you want,' he told DailyMail.com. 'I believe either someone told them something or some other information was stumbled upon, which was kind of conclusive in their minds that they had to go now to get that or they're not getting it.'

Trump's Florida residence was raided by the FBI Monday. It was most likely in relation to seizing official documents reportedly taken from the White House to his Palm Beach home upon leaving office last year.

Tabman claimed while there was cooperation between Trump and the FBI at one point, the agency may have gotten a sense that the former president and his team were 'telling you what they want to tell you with limited information.'

FBI protocol, according to Tabman, is to move forward with seizing information once they feel that 'voluntarily' obtaining it is no longer viable.

'You know, everything could disappear,' Tabman said. 'You got evidence that you need to get before it disappears or it moves and you can't see it anymore.'

In order to obtain the warrant for a raid, the FBI would need to prove probable cause and conduct the search in a timely manner. Agents can't just 'poke around' someone's home in a case like this, Tabman said.

The FBI raided Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate on Monday in apparent relations to a probe into him taking official White House documents to Florida upon leaving office. Pictured: Secret Service stand guard outside an entrance to the Palm Beach residence on Monday evening

'I think somebody gave them information indicating that these documents are there,' Tabman said. Trump was spotted leaving Trump Tower in NYC on Monday. He lamented of the search: 'They even broke into my safe!'

He also claimed the FBI could have gotten the sense that Trump was just no longer being 'fully cooperative' with the investigation  leading them to see the raid approval.

Supporters of the former president gathered outside Mar-a-Lago Monday evening in protest of the raid and ongoing investigations into Trump.

Tabman said that while it doesn't appear any protocols were broken in conducting the raid, it's still an 'unprecedented' move in the sense that the FBI has never raided a former president's home before.

'I can't think of this having happened to a former president,' Tabman noted.

'I don't see any protocols that were broken in any way,' the retired FBI special agent added. 'They must have obviously had probable cause.'

Republican lawmakers immediately bashed the FBI, President Joe Biden, the Justice Department and its head Merrick Garland for conducting the raid.

Biden and his staff, however, had no heads up on the matter. Senior White House officials found out about the raid via Twitter, according to The New York Times.

Tabman told DailyMail.com: 'I believe the Attorney General approved it himself given the sensitivity.'

'You know, maybe he delegated to a Deputy Attorney General again, maybe in order to avoid perceptions since he is a political appointee,' he added.

Trump supporters descended on Mar-a-Lago following news of the raid. Some camped out in the beds of their trunks

Getting the go-ahead from Garland is an internal DOJ process, Tabman explained. Adding that after approval, the matter would go before a 'neutral third party' judge to approve the raid based on proof of probable cause.

Tabman, through his near two-and-a-half decades of FBI service, retired at the level of Special Agent in Charge.

He served on the FBI-NYPD Organized Crime Task Force and FBI-NYPD Drug Task Force for eight years. During that time, Tabman served as an affiant on numerous arrest and search warrants and applications for wiretaps.

Tabman has been involved in a great number of arrests and execution of search warrants.

During his years in management, Tabman has reviewed affidavits and commanded the execution of arrests and search warrants.
Hillary Clinton taunted Donald Trump and the FBI raid on his Mar-a-Lago home on Tuesday by plugging merchandise hats that monetize her own emails scandal.

Trump's Florida home was raided by the FBI yesterday morning in dramatic fashion over suspicion and allegation that he destroyed official documents from his time in the Oval Office.

Trump and his fans say it's a clear attempt by the government to thwart a potential 2024 run for office - something he has not yet announced but that is becoming increasingly speculated about.

Hillary used the opportunity to cash in on sales of the hats which bear the slogan 'But Her Emails'.

By mid-morning, the $32-a-pop accessories were sold out online.

Hillary Clinton tried to cash in on the Trump FBI raid by plugging her own range of merchandise hats on Tuesday. Sales of the hats and t-shirts with the slogan fund her PAC, Onward Together

It's a taunting reference to Trump's repeated mention of the fact that she was investigated for getting rid of thousands of emails from a secure server during her time as Secretary of State, before she ran for office.

In an Instagram post on Tuesday, Clinton said: 'Every But her emails hat or shirt sold helps Onward Together partners defend democracy, build a progressive bench, and fight for our values.

'Just saying! Link to get yours in my profile.'

She also posted a photo on her Instagram story with a link, encouraging users to 'get your hat'.

Onward Together is the PAC Clinton founded in 2017.

It donates to left-wing groups such as Swing Left, Run for Something, Texas Civil Rights Project and Color of Change.

The FBI descended on Mar-a-Lago yesterday amid suspicion Trump had destroyed documents from his time in the Oval Office

The raid enraged Trump fans who say the FBI is unfairly targeting him while ignoring alleged misconduct by Democrats

The hats are among a number of items of merchandise using the slogan that are for sale.

Clinton is also selling t-shirts, stickers and mugs with the phrase plastered all over them.

Clinton was investigated but ultimately cleared over her deleting of 33,000 emails from a private email server.

She told the FBI that she thought all of the emails were private.

It was revealed as part of an investigation into emails written by her aide, Huma Abedin, after DailyMail.com revealed Abedin's husband, Anthony Weiner, had been in contact with an underage girl and exchanging sexually explicit messages with her.

Clinton previously ruled out running against Trump again. In June, she said it would be 'out of the question'.

Her mocking the raid is likely to enrage Trump, who yesterday asked why he was constantly persecuted by the left while Hillary and other Democrats are not.

The $32 hat was sold out in every color by mid-morning Tuesday after Clinton plugged it to her followers

Clinton is also selling a $6 sticker on the site. It gives money to left-wing causes
This is the first picture of the speed boat skipper accused of reckless driving that led to the death of British tourist Anna Capuano in a horror crash in Turkey.

Tamer Altindag, 22, was led into court in handcuffs on Friday morning to be interviewed by the state prosecutor about the death of the 44-year-old mother-of-three and the serious injuries suffered by her partner.

Dressed in a bright green T-shirt, cut off jean shorts, sandals and with coiffured hair, the unlicensed boat captain was told he must remain in jail until he stands trial for manslaughter and operating without a licence, later this year.

This is the first picture of Tamer Altindag, 22 - the speed boat skipper accused of reckless driving that led to the death of British tourist Anna Capuano in a horror crash in Turkey

Anna Capuano, a 44-year-old mother-of-three, suffered suffered catastrophic head injuries when the speed boat she was in struck a water taxi in Turkey. She died despite the frantic efforts of Turkish paramedics and first aiders to save her

Tamer does not deny causing the fatal crash with a water taxi, close to the resorts crowded beachfront on Thursday lunchtime, but claims he cannot explain how the accident happened.

Police investigators had initially claimed that Tamer's vessel had been in the collision while he had been distracted doing his hair in the mirror.

A source close to the investigation told MailOnline: 'Tamer does not deny causing the accident. He is not blaming anyone else for what happened. He simply says he does not know what happened.'

Meanwhile the water taxi driver involved in the death smash has revealed how he did everything to avoid the fatal collision.

Captain Erol Nas was at the helm of the the other boat 'Berkant' when it was struck by the out-of-control speed boat carrying Anna and partner Peter Oxford, 39, on Thursday.

Ms Capuano suffered catastrophic head injuries when the speed boat struck Erol's water taxi close to the beach. She died shortly afterwards despite the frantic efforts of Turkish paramedics and first aiders to save her.

Mr Oxford was knocked unconscious and suffered severe internal injuries that have kept him in intensive care at the town's Ahu Hospital.

Two other British tourists were involved in the accident but suffered minor injuries. They returned to the UK on Friday.

Pictured: Police and on-lookers are seen at the scene of the crash in Turkey

Captain Erol Nas (pictured) was at the helm of the the other boat 'Berkant' when it was struck by the out-of-control speed boat carrying Anna and partner Peter Oxford, 39, on Thursday

Now Erol, 55, has described his frantic efforts to get his vessel out of the path of the speed boat driven by 22-year-old unlicensed skipper Tamer Altindag.

He told MailOnline: 'I really wish this crash had not have happened. I did everything I could to avoid an accident.

'I saw him coming into shore from the sea at high speed and heading straight towards us. So I slowed down and later I cut the engine. My boat only sails at three knots. When he got really close I put the engine into reverse to get of the way.

'But he was out of control and in the wrong lane.

'If I had not have changed course he would have struck my boat full on and many more people would have died.

'But he struck the front of the boat and it was only people in the speed boat that were hurt. There was nothing more I could have done to avoid him.'

Erol, who has been a skipper for 35 years, has told of heartache at Anna's death and the other passengers' injuries.

He said: 'The people who were hurt are our guests and we should have looked after them. I have been a boat captain for 35 years and I have never had an accident before. I grew up next to the sea. I was taken to sea before I could walk.

'The sea is my life.'

Pictured: The Berkant water taxi, which was being captained by Erol Nas when the out-of-control speed boat crashed into it

Pictured: The court house in Marmaris, Turkey where the driver of the speedboat Tamer Altindag was questioned by the prosecutor looking into the death of Ms Capuano

While speed boat driver Tamer remains in jail, his colleagues at the 'Number 6' tour operator firm, that organised the fateful speed boat ride, have offered their condolences to Anna's family.

Manager Halil Afsar told MailOnline: 'Tamer is absolutely devastated by what happened. It was an accident. Tamer did not mean to kill or hurt anyone.

'He is being in held in prison on manslaughter charges.

'He is very upset by what happened. He is a young and he is in a terrible state. His family are very upset. All of us who work with him are upset too.

'We all want to offer our condolences to the family of the lady who died and wish a speedy recovery to the people who were injured.'

Anna's partner Peter Oxford remains in hospital in Marmaris recovering from his injuries which include six broken ribs.

The couple, who had recently got together, were enjoying their first holiday together  a seven-day package with TUI, staying at the Lalila Blue hotel.

Peter, from Derbyshire, has given a statement to the Turkish prosecutor in Marmaris who is leading the investigation into Anna's death.

The couple, who had only recently got together, were enjoying a seven-day package holiday at the five-star Lalila Blue Hotel in Marmaris, booked through TUI, when tragedy struck at 1.30pm on Thursday lunchtime.

Anna  mother to two daughters aged 11 and 13 and a son 22  had separated from her second husband Jonathan Capuano but the pair had remained on good terms.

On Saturday, a tour operator today told how Anna died in his arms after she was brought to shore following the tragic accident.

Mustafa Bey told MailOnline over the weekend: 'It's a tragedy. She died in my arms.

'It is such a terrible thing to have happened. There has never been an accident like this in Marmaris. Everyone is in shock and upset. It's so sad.'

Mustafa Bey, a tour guide, described holding Anna in his arms as she died. He said: 'There has never been an accident like this in Marmaris. Everyone is in shock and upset. It's so sad'

Peter Oxford, 39, was knocked unconscious and suffered severe internal injuries that have kept at the town's Ahu Hospital. He has since given a statement to police

He added: 'Her partner was knocked unconscious. He broke six or seven ribs and has other internal injuries. He was rushed to hospital. He was in a coma but he has regained consciousness now. He is traumatised.'

Ex-husband Jonathan said: 'Anna's a nice, friendly person, and was going off to Turkey with her new partner.'

Friends and neighbours have told how the couple had been looking forward to their sunshine break in Marmaris, a popular Turkish resort with Britons.

Baljeet Randhawa told MailOnline: 'This is so sad, she had two young girls, and they will be heartbroken.

'Anna has been so looking forward to her holiday in Turkey this week.

'She had split up with her husband about a year ago and had recently met a new partner. It was their first time away together.

'The girls lived with her but we're not going on holiday, but were going to stay with their dad.'

Baljeet's husband Sabjeet added: 'She was a lovely person, bubbly and happy and always smiling.

'It is such a shock. Everyone around here knew her but not that well.

A neighbour added: 'Anna was a very nice woman and a good neighbour.

'She had just met a new partner and seemed happy, It is a terrible thing to happen, shocking.'

A Foreign Office spokesman told MailOnline: 'We are providing consular assistance after the death of a British woman and hospitalisation of three British nationals in Turkey, and are in contact with the local authorities.'
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More than 250 elephants have been rehomed in Malawi, with the giant animals airlifted upside down as they were moved to their new national park.

The mammoth effort saw 263 of the animals and 431 other wildlife including impala, buffalo, warthog, sable, and waterbuck transported from the Liwonde National Park in Malawi to the Kasungu National Park, 250 miles away.

The elephants were seen hanging upside down as they were gently lowered into their new home as part of the environmental project.

An elephant hangs upside down as it is airlifted to its new home in Malawi during a mammoth rehoming project that finished last week

More than 250 elephants have been rehomed in Malawi, with the giant animals airlifted upside down via cranes as they were moved to their new national park

The mammoth effort saw 263 of the animals and 431 other wildlife including impala, buffalo, warthog, sable, and waterbuck transported

The giant animals were moved from the Liwonde National Park in Malawi to the Kasungu National Park, 250 miles away

It was carried out to maintain healthy habitats in Malawi's national parks, establish viable elephant populations and ensure the prosperity of local communities around the park.

The operation took a month in total and was completed last week.

The move was undertaken by Malawi's Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) in partnership with African Parks and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW).

'We are overjoyed that the exercise has been completed successfully, thanks to all of the partners who worked hard to finish the work on time,' said Brighton Kumchedwa, Malawi's Director of National Parks and Wildlife.

'The addition of elephants and other wildlife species to Kasungu National Park will benefit Malawi tourism as well as communities through job creation, thereby fuelling a conservation-driven economy.'

The elephants were seen hanging upside down as they were gently lowered into their new home as part of the environmental project

It was carried out to maintain healthy habitats in Malawi's national parks, establish viable elephant populations and ensure the prosperity of local communities around the park

The operation took a month in total and was completed last week, with hundreds of animals moved to the new park

The move was undertaken by Malawi's Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) in partnership with African Parks and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)

The elephant population diminished with poaching activity so this exercise hopes to see an increase in the population

After the move was completed, the herd of elephants was seen enjoying its new surroundings in the Malawi national parkl



Kasungu is the second largest national park in Malawi, covering 2,100 square kilometres, which is four times the size of the creature's previous habitat at Liwonde National Park.

'We have been working in close partnership with the DNPW in Liwonde to generate benefits for people and wildlife since 2015,' said Sam Kamoto, African Parks' Country Manager.

'Thanks to the Malawian Government's commitment to this landscape, Liwonde has re-emerged as a park not only hailed for the recovery of its wildlife numbers, but for its international tourism appeal.

'The addition of elephants to Kasungu will help with the overall tourism in the country, contribute to local employment, and fuel a conservation-led economy.'

Kasungu is the second largest national park in Malawi, covering 2,100 square kilometres, which is four times the size of the creature's previous habitat at Liwonde National Park

An aerial view of the elephants being airlifted into their new habitat shows the huge operation undertaken by authorities

In the 1970s Kasungu was home to around 1,200 elephants but poaching saw their numbers dwindle

Brighton Kumchedwa, Malawi's Director of National Parks and Wildlife, said: 'We are overjoyed that the exercise has been completed successfully, thanks to all of the partners who worked hard to finish the work on time'

By 2015, there were just 49 elephants in Kasungu, making this exercise especially important in the effort to increase the population in the park

One of the elephants makes the most of the new surroundings after the relocation to Liwonde National Park in Malawi

The new surroundings should help boost elephant numbers and the animals will be monitored by authorities

In the 1970s Kasungu was home to around 1,200 elephants but poaching saw their numbers dwindle to a shocking figure of just 49 by 2015 making this exercise especially important in the effort to increase the population in the park.

'The translocation of the elephants and other wildlife is a significant achievement and proves the DNPW's approach to working with partners to secure its natural resources is a sound one,' said Patricio Ndadzela, IFAW's Country Director for Malawi and Zambia.

'The partnership with the Malawi Government is not over, IFAW will continue to work at Kasungu to ensure that the Park is fully restored to its former glory.

'We thank all partners and individuals who played different roles to ensure that the exercise is a success.'
The forest chief scheme leads to lusher mountains in central China's Hunan province

09:03, August 09, 2022 By He Yong ( People's Daily

Changsha, the capital of central China's Hunan province, is a "furnace" in midsummer, whose temperature may rise to 40 degrees Celsius. For Changsha citizens, the Dawei Mountain, some 130 km east of the metropolis, is an ideal place to escape the summer heat.

Photo shows a bamboo forest in Qianmaping village, Jinling township, Xintian county, Yongzhou, central China's Hunan province. Hunan province has launched a forest chief scheme to develop rural tourism and promote rural vitalization with ecological resources. (People's Daily Online/Zhong Weifeng)

The winding mountain looks like a green belt interspersed with wetlands and valleys. This gorgeous scenery couldn't have been shaped without the meticulous efforts made by "forest rangers and chiefs."

Changsha introduced a forest chief scheme in 2021, which includes 11 forest chiefs at the municipal level, 83 at the county level, 1,068 at the township level and 2,390 at the village level. Together, they guard more than 600,000 hectares of forests.

The forest chief scheme is what maintains a sound and safe natural environment for Changsha.

Being a forest chief involves heavy responsibilities, said Liu Xiaopei, a forest chief from Longfu Xincun village, Xiaduo township, Ningxiang, a county-level city administered by the municipal government of Changsha.

Liu goes on a patrol mission in the forest early in the morning every day. "Clearing cigarette butts and other garbage, discovering plant diseases and insect pests, and rescuing injured animals...Liu told People's Daily.

Last December, he found some pines withering on a patrol mission and immediately reported it to relevant township authorities via a management app. The local forestry department launched quick check-ups and spotted pine wood nematode. Then it disposed of the infected trees, which prevented further expansion of the pest.

Forest chief Li Yeliang (first on the left) goes on a patrol mission with his colleagues at a state-owned forest farm in Zixing, central China's Hunan province, April 7, 2022. (People's Daily Online/Li Ke)

Changsha has 1,160 full-time forest chiefs like Liu. The city divides its forests into a number of management grids, and each grid comes with a forest chief, a supervisor and a law enforcement officer.

Each of the forest chiefs takes care of an area of no more than 10,000 mu (about 667 hectares). They wear uniforms and take with them standard tools and a manual. Besides, they are put under centralized management and performance evaluation.

The forest chiefs prevent such practices as firing, illegal lumbering and occupation of forests; they also monitor pests and protect wildlife.

To make the forest chief scheme more effective, Changsha has enhanced its input on technologies.

"Drones make our patrolling areas wider and make our job easier," said Tang Ming, a forest chief in Gejia township, Liuyang, Hunan province.

A total of 42 drones are employed by the forestry department of Liuyang, which are able to cover all forests administered by the city.

Changsha is the first city in Hunan province to have established a smart forestry management platform, which integrates a forestry big data base, a dynamic monitoring system, a comprehensive law enforcement system and a demonstration system.

Villagers pick jelly ears in Shixian village, Shiqiao township, Jiahe county, Chenzhou, central China's Hunan province, April 13, 2022. (People's Daily Online/Huang Chuntao)

Lumbering was once the major source of income for forest farms. "Now, we make money from 'watching' the trees," said Liu Junjie, head of a state-owned forest farm in Liuyang.

"We have vigorously planted high value-added woods to expand the country's commercial forest," Liu said. According to him, more than 120 workers of the farm are engaged in planting Phoebe zhennan and Zelkova serrata.

Changsha is also developing husbandry, fungi, herbal medicine, fruit and healthcare industries in the forests, making the "under-forest economy" a major driver for rural vitalization. The city is seeing annual revenue of more than 10 billion yuan from the "under-forest economy."

"The forest chief scheme stresses the responsibility and leading role of local party committees and governments, and involves efforts from government departments and social forces. It makes a concerted contribution to ecological progress," said Deng Yangfeng, head of the forestry bureau of Changsha.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Several colonies and thousands of families who live along the Musi banks are at risk of flooding (R. Pavan/DC)

Hyderabad: Although several colonies and thousands of families who live along the Musi banks are at risk of flooding as the city has been receiving heavy rainfall for the past month, the Musi River Development Corporation Limited (MRDCL) thinks otherwise.

While GHMC and revenue department officials evacuated at least 1,500 families in the Charminar area, the MRDCL authorities claimed that only 40 families were under imminent threat. The MRDCL conducted a survey of the Musi river over a 55 km stretch, from Gandipet to ORR-East at Gowrelli and Himayat Sagar to Bapughat, using drone technology.

According to MRDCL officials, the revenue department reported 9,218 constructions totalling 55 km of encroachment along the Musi in the three districts of Hyderabad, Ranga Reddy, and Medchal-Malkajgiri. This year alone, around 1,500 households along Musi were evacuated and relocated to rehabilitation centres by the GHMC staff and the revenue officials.

Some areas under risk of flooding are MGBS, Chaderghat, Amberpet, Puranapul, Attapur, Golnaka, Asifnagar, Golconda, Bahadurpura, Nampally, Charminar, Himayatnagar,and Saidabad. However, according to MRDCL officials, only Shankarnagar Colony in Old Malakpet and its 40 families are more vulnerable to flooding. They claimed that the remaining encroachers are not vulnerable and cannot be removed because of political compulsions related to the upcoming elections.

The corporation has been able to remove two permanent constructions and roughly 230 meagre encroachments while the city has been dealing with major urban flooding challenges. Only two permanent encroachments, together with 16 huts and 14 commercial car sheds in the Charminar and Amberper mandals, respectively, were effectively removed by the government in 2018. There were 135 huts, 1,500 rickshaws parked unlawfully, 97 business sheds, and three vents in the Bahadurpura and Nampally mandals in 2019.

Meanwhile, MRDCL officials claimed that as part of Musi Rejuvenation and Beautification, they removed junipers and shrubs to reduce the mosquito menace, and cleaned the Musi Riverbed to allow for free flow between Bapughat and Nagole Bridge. These initiatives are expected to cost roughly Rs 8.50 crore.
Vladimir Putin has now lost at least 100 colonels in the war in Ukraine, as the US says up to 80,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded in the fighting.

Lieutenant-Colonel Vitaly Tsikul, 36 and a tank commander, was confirmed dead by Russian media which showed footage of his funeral taking place in the town of Chebarkul, central Russia.

His death was revealed as Colin Kahl, third-most senior official at the Pentagon, said that up to 80,000 Russia soldiers have been taken out less than six months of war.

Lieutenant-Colonel Vitaly Tsikul, 36 and a tank commander, died fighting somewhere in Ukraine last month with his demise confirmed in recent days as his funeral took place

It means that around half of the 150,000 - 190,000 men that Putin is thought to have amassed on Ukraine's border before the war have been removed from the battlefield.

Kahl said the estimate is 'pretty remarkable' when taking into account the fact that 'the Russians have achieved none of Putins objectives at the beginning of the war.'

He added: 'Russia's overall objective was to overrun the entire country, to engage in regime change in Kyiv, to snuff out Ukraine as an independent sovereign and democratic nation. None of that has happened.'

His estimate is roughly in line with one given by a Democrat congresswoman briefed on the war last week, who said 'at least' 75,000 Russian troops were dead or injured.

Among that number are thought to be thousands of Ukrainians conscripted into the army from occupied territories, and thousands more mercenaries linked to military contractor group Wager.

Russia is also thought to have drafted in soldiers from Syria to fight, and in recent weeks has began a recruitment drive for new 'volunteer battalions'.

Salaries of up to 3,400 per month are reportedly being offered to officers willing to fight, before bonuses, with privates promised 2,400 - a fortune for those living in the poorer regions of Russia or Donbas, where recruitment is said to be focused.

Tsikul, a married father-of-two, was buried in his home town of Chebarkul, central Russia, in recent days with his funeral broadcast on Russian media

Tsikul served in the Russian 90th Tank Division in Russia's Central Military District before his death in Ukraine. It is unclear exactly where or how he died

Tsikul served in the Russian 90th Tank Division in Russia's Central Military District before his death in Ukraine.

A married father-of-two, he was accorded full military honours at his funeral which took place at an Orthodox Church in Chebarkul.

Tsikul was killed last month but details only emerged now of his funeral following the repatriation of his corpse.

Russia often delays sending bodies home to keep the true toll of the war hidden.

It is not clear exactly how or where in Ukraine Tsikul met his end.

Despite suffering a huge number of casualties in Ukraine, Putin has not officially declared a war or started a general mobilisation of Russia's population.

This is believed to be because he fears an uprising by ordinary Russians against his increasingly authoritarian leadership.

Instead, he is largely relying on conscripts drawn from Russia's poorer or most-remote regions, conscripts from occupied Ukraine, volunteers and mercenaries to do his fighting for him.

Putin's Ukraine offensive has largely stalled, with Ukraine now hitting back - including apparent missile strikes on Crimea today

Tens of thousands of new recruits drawn from these areas are thought to have been thrown on to the frontlines since the war began, often with little training, poor equipment, and having been told they would not be sent into combat.

That has helped to drive Russian losses up, whilst also meaning its attacks have made little progress in recent weeks.

Moscow's offensive in Ukraine's east has largely stalled following the capture of most of Luhansk province, with several major cities still standing between Putin's men and their goal of taking all of Donbas.

Meanwhile a counter-attack is underway in the southern Kherson region, which Ukrainian officials have predicted will be back under their control by September.

And today around a dozen explosions simultaneously hit Crimea, which Russia has occupied since 2014 and Putin considers to be his own territory.

Ukraine has not commented on the attack, though there is little doubt it has been orchestrated by Kyiv. Russia says it is 'investigating'.

If confirmed, it would be the first major attack on Crimea since 2014.

The peninsula sits far behind the frontline, and Ukraine is not known to possess any weapon that can range that far.

It means that either saboteurs were able to carry out an audacious behind-enemy lines attack, or Kyiv has been provided with longer-range missiles than its Western allies have previously acknowledged.

The likely candidate is ATACMS, a long-range rocket similar to a ballistic missile than can be fired from the back of HIMARS or M270 multiple-launch rocket systems.

Calls for Ukraine to be provided with the weapons have been growing in recent weeks, but President Biden has previously ruled out sending them - saying he would not supply arms with the range to hit mainland Russia.
Sweet-toothed Aussies are mourning the loss of Starburst lollies with one TikTok user even calling it a 'conspiracy' she could no longer find them.

However, the confectionary company behind the missing Starburst range said the brand had been discontinued in Australia.

Sydneysider Nariman Dein vented her dismay on TikTok at not being able to find Starburst Snakes and Babies, which she said were 'best' lollies there are.

'Can someone tell me where these lollies went?' she asked her followers.

'I've been looking everywhere - Big W, Coles, whatever - these lollies don't exist.'

'And I am having some sort of conspiracy theory did they just stop selling them and no one realised?'

'If some one knows please let me know.'

Many among the more than 1000 people who commented on the video also lamented the Starburst range disappearing from shop shelves.

Mars Wrigley said they discontinued the Starburst brand in Australia with imports of the confectionary being stopped from Europe

'Literally no other lollies compare to Starbusrt,' wrote one.

'Omg the babies were my favourite!!!!' OK I need to know where they disappeared to,' wrote another.

A spokesperson for Mars Wrigley, which makes Starburst, told Seven News that the brand is no longer selling lollies in Australia.

The Starburst range includes Fruit Chews, Gummies, GummiBursts, Babies, lollipops and Jellybeans.

Starburst Snakes are one of the range of lollies that will no longer be shipped to Australia

The company said after reviewing all options it had make the 'difficult decision' to discontinue the brand in June.

'We regularly review our Mars Wrigley product range to ensure we're offering our consumers great tasting products that are also great value for money,' the spokesperson said.

'Our Starburst products are imported from Europe and like many businesses that are importing products from overseas, the brand has been exposed to supply chain difficulties and rising cost pressures over the last two years.'

Mars Wrigley said it will concentrate on the brands it makes locally.

'As a proud Australian manufacturer for more than 60 years, we are taking this opportunity to prioritise and invest in the brands and products we make locally in Australia such as M&Ms, Maltesers, Skittles, Snickers, Extra and Eclipse,' the spokesperson said.
The FBI search of Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate was quickly blasted by the former presidents Republican colleagues and a throng of supporters, who rallied against the raid outside his Florida resort on Monday.

The unprecedented search of a former presidents home signalled an escalation of the investigation into missing White House documents  one of several probes into Trumps time in office, his role in the Jan 6 attacks and his business dealings.

Trumps reaction  to condemn the raid as not necessary or appropriate  has resonated with his legion of MAGA fans, many of whom say he won the 2020 election and that Democrats will try anything to stop him running again in 2024.

Poll Do you approve of the FBI raid on former president Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate? Yes No Do you approve of the FBI raid on former president Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate? Yes 7178 votes

No 19097 votes Now share your opinion





Still, many Americans say Trump is not above the law, that his actions in the White House warrant investigation and that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has a responsibility to fulfil this difficult task.

Against this backdrop, DailyMail.com is spotlighting five recent polls that provide a snapshot of Americans attitudes on Trump, the FBI, the DOJ, the Jan 6 hearings and simmering political divisions that could boil over into violence.

The polling suggests that voters remain bitterly divided over the 45th president, whether he should be investigated, and whether U.S. institutions operate fairly. While some Republicans have moved away from Trump, he retains a passionate and combustible base.

We are also giving readers the chance to share their views, and vote on whether they approve of the FBIs decision to raid Trumps luxury retreat in Palm Beach and crack open his safe in the search for missing papers.

POLL 1: Republicans trust the FBI less than Democrats

The FBI has an image problem. Overall, 47 percent of Americans distrust the national crime-fighting bureau, and 46 percent trust it, according to a Golden/TIPP Poll from May.

Support is politically tilted: Democrats and independents broadly trust the institution, but most Republicans (55 percent) lack trust, even though Trump appointed FBI director Christopher Wray.

Respondents expressed similarly mixed feelings towards the DOJ.

POLL 2: U.S. split over Trump's role in Jan 6 insurrection

After weeks of televised hearings into the assault on the Capitol in January 2021, U.S. voters remained divided over Trumps role in the insurrection, and whether he encouraged supporters to try to stop lawmakers from certifying his electoral defeat.

Some 53 percent of voters said Trump should face a criminal indictment for January 6, yet 54 percent of voters also said he should be allowed to run for president again, Harvard CAPS-Harris pollsters found this month.

Pollster Mark Penn called it an explosively divisive issue in the country.

Members of the Oath Keepers on the East Front of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, in Washington. American's remain split over then-President Donald Trump's role in the insurrection

POLL 3: The Jan 6 hearings turned some Republicans against Trump

The televised hearings into the events of January 6 took a toll on Trumps popularity.

The bipartisan congressional probe offered new revelations about Trump heaping pressure on his vice president to overturn his election defeat, and dismissing close advisors who rejected his false claims of massive voter fraud.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll at the end of July found that 40 percent of Republicans blamed Trump for the deadly riot, compared to the 33 percent who held the former leader responsible six weeks previously.

In an advert, Trump calls America a 'nation in decline' but promises a political future where 'the best is yet to come'. His popularity was dented by the January 6 hearings, but he remains popular among millions of voters

POLL 4: Trump remains popular among Republican base

Despite all the negative publicity over Jan 6 and signs of ebbing support, Trump remains hugely popular among his die-hard base.

In a straw poll at the three-day Conservative Political Action Conference in Texas last week, Trump was favored by 69 percent of anonymous voters  far ahead of second place Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, with 24 percent.

Supporters of former U.S. President Donald Trump rally outside his Mar-a-Lago home after the FBI raid. Despite negative publicity, he remains hugely popular among a die-hard fan base

POLL 5: Americans  and especially gun-toting Republicans  are riled up

The Trump supporters who rallied outside Mar-a-Lago on Monday night, much like those who stormed the Capitol on January 6, showcase just how passionately they back the former president.

A recent University of Chicago poll revealed just how angry and divided America had become, and how this could once again spill over into violence.

A worrying 28 percent of respondents said they had such little faith in their government that it may soon be necessary to take up arms against Washington.

Among gun owners, 37 percent said they were ready for armed rebellion against a system that many described as corrupt and rigged against them.
The marketing director at at New Jersey hospital was arrested at Newark International Airport on Sunday after police discovered more than three dozen firearms, including 27 rifles, in an unlocked closet in his office while they were there investigating a bomb threat.

Reuven Alonalayoff, 46, an employee at Hudson Regional Hospital, was taken into custody on Sunday by Homeland Security Investigations.

He was charged with possession of an assault firearm and two counts of possession of a high-capacity magazine.

Officials said it was unclear what Alonalayoff, of Elmwood Park, NJ, was doing at the airport.

Reuven Alonalayoff, 46, was arrested at Newark Liberty International Airport on Sunday by Homeland Security Investigations. Officials say it's unclear what he was doing at the airport. He was charged with possession of an assault firearm and two counts of possession of a high-capacity magazine

On July 18, just after 3 p.m., Secaucus Police were called to the acute care facility located on the Hackensack River in Secaucus, New Jersey, regarding a bomb threat. The bomb threat ended up being a hoax, but one of the bomb-sniffing dogs picked up a scent and led officials to an unlocked closet in Alonalayoff's office.

Inside was massive cache of firearms: Seven rifles and shotguns, 11 handguns, a .45-caliber semi-automatic Kriss Vector rifle with a high-capacity magazine and 14 rounds of high-capacity ammunition.

Alonalayoff worked as the marketing director at Hudson Regional Hospital, an acute-care facility located in Secaucus, New Jersey

Officials are investigating how Alonalayoff was able to bring all the firearms into the hospital and how long they were hidden inside his office.

Secaucus Police Chief Dennis Miller said 'the unsecured storage of a large cache of weaponry, especially in this location, certainly creates a risk to public safety, and said he was 'thankful this situation was resolved without anyone being harmed,' NBC New York reported.

A spokesman for the hospital told The Jersey Journal that Alonalayoff is no longer employed there
Most people go their whole live without running into a rattlesnake, but others aren't so lucky.

A woman from Durham, Kansas, became one of the unlucky few when a rattlesnake bit her three times in the leg when she was outside her house, ending up in hospital where she needed five separate antivenom shots.

Breah Ungaro, a veterinary technician, had come home late at night with her husband after a wedding.

Getting back home, she remembered they had to feed her horse.

Putting on her slippers, she went out in the night with the horse feed, but suddenly felt a sharp stinging sensation in her leg.

Breah Ungaro, a veterinary technician, was bitten in the leg three times by a massasauga rattlesnake in Durham, Kansas

An operation on her leg left Ungaro with a long scar on her leg, and painful memories.

Breah is pictured in Wichita hospital. Her husband took her to Hillsboro Emergency Room first, but the local hospital didn't have antivenom vial to hand

Massasauga rattlesnakes live across the US but have become more and more rare in past years

Lethal rattle snakes attack 8,000 humans a year in America About 8,000 people are bitten by venomous snakes in the United States each year, with 10 to 15 deaths, according to the US Food and Drug Administration. The most common venomous snake in Idaho is the western rattlesnake. The massasauga rattlesnake, an endangered species, used to be a fairly common snake in the central United States, but because of habitat loss the snake is now very rare. Most bites occur between the months of April and October when snakes and humans are most active outdoors. About 25 percent of the bites are 'dry', meaning no venom was injected, but the bites still require medical treatment. Depending on weather and threatening conditions such wildfires, rattlesnakes may roam at any time of the day or night. Massasaugas usually hibernate in the wetlands in crayfish or small mammal burrows. They also have been known to hibernate in tree roots and rock crevices. Advertisement

A massasauga rattlesnake had bitten her three times.

'When she stepped down to step between the fence so that she could put it in the horse trough, she said something stung me,' Cindy Cordell, Breahs mom, said.

Her husband rushed her to the Hillsboro Emergency Room immediately, where doctors examined her.

But small hospitals like Hillsboro don't have antivenom vial to hand, due to their cost and short shelf life.

They then had to transfer her to Wichita hospital's surgical ICU unit, giving her five antivenom injections.

'During her stay she has endured the most grueling pain in her life as the venom traveled up her leg,' said Breah's fundraising page.

They added: 'It was decided to complete a fasciotomy on her lower leg muscle compartments.

'This procedure was intended to hopefully help release the pressure from the swelling, and help prevent permanent nerve and tissue damage.'

By the time of the procedure, her leg had swollen up so much the doctors were forced to cut open surrounding tissue to relieve pressure.

It left her with a long scar on her leg, and painful memories.

She was in hospital for a long time, but towards the end of July was well on her way to recovery.

'Little things like this can happen, and it could have been a different outcome,' Cindy said. 'Thank the Lord it wasnt.'

Online well-wishers have raised over $8,000 for Breah on GoFundMe, hoping for a speedy recovery.

'When people talk to us now, they say, "How is your daughter?" Second question, "I didnt even know there were rattlesnakes here." So it was a little surreal for us,' Breahs stepdad, Scott Cordell, told KSN.

Stock photo: A massasauga rattlesnake lays in its enclosure on December 23, 2017 in the Phoenix zoo. The massasauga used to be a fairly common snake in the central United States, but because of habitat loss the snake is now very rare

Rattlesnake bites are rare, but more are being found in unlikely places as their habitats are destroyed.

They don't always rattle before they strike, and the pain of the bite gets worse as the venom begins to spread.

One woman from Arizona, speaking to The Guardian, described being bitten by a rattlesnake: 'Instant pain, like an animal trap snapping shut on my hand. I screamed and pulled my hand out to see two small bloody marks on my knuckles.'

She added: 'All I could think was that I hadn't known you could feel this much pain and still remain conscious. I was doubled over in the front seat, rocking in agony.'

The skin where the snake has bitten often turns blue as the venom destroys the blood vessels. The muscles sometimes start to twitch not long after.

Within an hour of being bitten, a person's arm or leg can double in size thanks to the swelling.

A delay of only a few hours heading to the hospital can result in an amputated limb, though it will take several days for someone to die of a snakebite if left untreated.
A husband who smothered his wife with a pillow in their hotel room during a holiday to England to stop her 'nagging' him is facing life behind bars for her murder after pleading guilty in court.

Soong Hert Fong and Pek Ying Ling, both 51, had travelled from their home in Singapore, via Dubai, on a European tour which had included trips to the Isle of Skye, Inverness, Edinburgh and Newcastle.

Mrs Pek was found dead at the County Aparthotel in Newcastle with her legs hanging over the end of the bed with a pillow over her face.

The court heard Fong may have 'knelt on her shoulders during' to kill her but he originally claimed that had 'no memory' of the attack.

The couple had been married for 28 years and had three adult sons together.

They had met family on their trip and were due to fly to Paris to see one of their sons on December 7 last year.

But Newcastle Crown Court heard in the early hours of December 6, Fong, who was known as Alan Fong, murdered his wife, known as Evelyn Pek, in the County Aparthotel in Newcastle where they were visiting one of their sons at university.

Pek Ying Ling (pictured), 51 and known as Evelyn Pek, died at the County Aparthotel hotel in Newcastle on December 6 during a European holiday with her husband after travelling from their native Singapore

Mrs Pek was found dead County Aparthotel (pictured) in Newcastle in the early hours of December 6 by emergency services lying with her legs hanging over the bottom of the bed and a pillow over her face

Fong then called their eldest son, who, and told him: 'I have hurt your mother. She's gone. She's dead.

'I just lost it. I tried to cover her mouth to shush her. I just lost it.'

Fong told police after his arrest: 'I just wanted her to keep quiet.'

He later claimed to have 'no memory whatsoever' of the killing.

But prosecutor Peter Makepeace QC told the court: 'He lost his temper, he snapped and he smothered her to death, apparently to stop her scolding him or nagging him or to keep her quiet'.

Fong, of Marine Vitsa, Floor Unit, Singapore, denied murder and was being tried by a jury at Newcastle Crown Court.

On the second week of the trial, Fong, who had claimed to have diminished responsibility and lack of intent to harm, changed his plea and admitted her murder.

Judge Paul Sloan QC ordered the jury to return a guilty verdict in the case, after the most 'compelling or potent' evidence of him pleading guilty in their presence.

Fong will be sentenced on Friday and Judge Sloan warned him: 'You will appreciate, there is only one sentence in respect of an offence of murder and that is a sentence of imprisonment for life.

'However, I am required by law to identify the minimum term you must spend in prison before you could even be considered for release on licence by the parole board.

'You will be produced at court on Friday for the sentence hearing.'

Mr Makepeace had told the court there was no known history of violence or trouble between the couple but, according to one son, Mrs Pek had been known to 'scold' her husband in the past.

When asked about what that meant, their son Alonzo Fong said during his evidence: 'When I say scold - I'm not sure what the understanding is in the UK for that word - but in Singapore it's mostly like a telling off.

'For example, if my mum saw my dad doing a certain thing she would ask why, that's what I meant by the word scold.

'She would be constantly asking him to be going to hospital to get it checked and stop acting so tough.'

The court heard during their trip Fong had injured his buttocks and hand in a fall during their stay at the Bosville Hotel at the Isle of Skye and had visited hospital there and in Inverness for checks.

He had three further falls and there was another visit to hospital for him when they reached Newcastle, which led to Mrs Pek 'scolding him for not taking good care of himself'.

Mr Makepeace said: 'She wasn't happy he was continuing to smoke while he was unwell.'

Fong will be sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court (pictured) on Friday after Judge Paul Sloan QC warned him: 'You will appreciate, there is only one sentence in respect of an offence of murder and that is a sentence of imprisonment for life'

The court heard the couple returned to the hotel from the visit to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle at shortly after midnight on December 6.

Just hours later, at seven minutes past seven in the morning, Fong informed their son she was dead when she was then found by emergency services

Mrs Pek was found by emergency services lying with her legs hanging over the end of the bed with a pillow over her face.

Mr Makepeace said Fong may have knelt on her shoulders during the attack to achieve the required force to kill her.

Fong told jurors from the witness box that the first time he noticed his wife was dead was when he tried to speak to her but wasn't receiving a response.

He said: 'I think I was on the sofa. I tried to get up and I noticed she was on the bed with a pillow over her face, I froze.

'I felt a lot of pain, I simply wanted to die. It was like being ripped apart and the whole world was collapsing, I was totally blank.'

He added that it was the 'thought of my three boys' that stopped him from taking his own life, and they 'didn't deserve to lose both parents under such circumstances.'

During his evidence, he rejected the prosecution claim that he had killed her to stop her nagging and said: 'After 28 years of marriage I cannot believe that anything she can say or could do that could make me so mad.'
Controversial plans for asylum seekers to be housed in a sleepy North Yorkshire village have been scrapped by ministers.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace today confirmed he had 'withdrawn' an offer for a disused RAF base in Linton-on-Ouse to accomodate up to 1,500 male asylum seekers.

Local residents had expressed outrage at the plans when they were announced by the Home Office in April, with Hambleton District Council launching legal action against the proposal.

The use of Linton-on-Ouse to house people while their asylum claims are being processed was previously argued to be a key part of Home Secretary Priti Patel's drive to clamp down on migrants crossing the Channel in small boats.

This includes her plan to send those who enter the UK illegally to Rwanda.

The Home Office also touted the creation of new asylum reception centres as a means of ending the Government's use of hotels to accommodate those who enter the UK illegally, which is estimated to cost around 5million a day.

An alternative site to Linton-on-Ouse, which is around half an hour's drive from York city centre, will now have to be found for a reception centre.

There had been warnings that the Home Office plans would be 'effectively trebling' the size of the village

Local residents had expressed outrage at the plans when they were announced by the Home Office in April

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace today confirmed he had 'withdrawn' an offer for a disused RAF base in Linton-on-Ouse to accomodate up to 1,500 male asylum seekers

Mr Wallace, who supports Foreign Secretary Liz Truss in the Tory leadership contest, was quizzed today about the future of the site.

He was asked about comments from ex-chancellor Rishi Sunak, Ms Truss's rival in the battle to become the next prime minister, after he said he would ask the Home Office to find an alternative solution to using the site in Linton-on-Ouse.

The Defence Secretary said: 'He didnt oppose it when he was in Government, so thats a new surprise.

'I think because hes not in Government he wont know whats been going on. I have withdrawn the offer to the Home Office for that site.

'Its been with them for a number of months. I have obligations to do something else with that site, and you know there are other sites we made available to the Home Office if they wish to take it up.'

Mr Wallace added: 'I have withdrawn the offer of that site to the Home Office. It was one of, I think, five sites we offered at the time, when Rishi Sunak was in Government, and he was certainly supportive of it at the time.

'He isnt now, interestingly enough.'

Olga Matthias, of the Linton-on-Ouse Action Group set up to oppose the plans, said she was 'over the moon' at the news.

'The Government had effectively put the sword of Damocles over the whole village for the past four months, so the sense of relief that I have got has to be echoed by everybody else now the uncertainty has gone,' she added.

;We have said all along that this was "wrong plan, wrong place" and if the Home Office had done even a tiny bit of research before the announcement they would have seen this was the wrong place.

'Its a rural village of 600 people. You cant triple the population of a village; we havent got the roads, we havent got the street lighting. Theres nothing around it but fields.

'Home Office guidance says asylum seekers should be placed in urban conurbations where they can access services.'

Following the announcement of the Linton-on-Ouse plans in April, the Home Office said 'destitute single adult male asylum seekers who have their asylum applications under review' would be housed at the site.

The department added there were 'no proposals currently to accommodate families with children at the site'.

Under the plans, asylum seekers living at the site would have been 'free to come and go but would be expected to be on site overnight', although they would not have been subjet to a curfew.

The sleepy village of Linton-on-Ouse is around half an hour's drive from York city centre

The debate over the proposed asylum reception centre at Linton-on-Ouse had become part of the Tory leadership contest between Rishi Sunak and Liz Truss

Home Secretary Priti Patel will now have to find a new location for an asylum reception centre after Mr Wallace withdrew the offer to the Home Office

Ms Truss had earlier said she understood the proposed centre at Linton-on-Ouse was now 'not going ahead'.

Asked about Mr Sunak's pledge for a rethink over the North Yorkshire site, the Foreign Secretary replied: 'My understanding from the Defence Secretary is that site is not going ahead.

'So it's a moot point because it won't be going forward.'

Local MP Kevin Hollinrake has previously condemned the 'disgraceful' choice of Linton-on-Ouse for an asylum reception centre.

'The village itself has 600 people, this is effectively trebling the size of the village,' the Tory backbencher told GB News earlier this year.

'1,500 young, single men from around the world who are there for up to six months can freely walk around that village.

'You can understand the concern and indeed panic from people in that village.

'It's absolutely wrong that a single village should be sacrificed on the altar of a national policy priority, it's simply wrong.'

A Government spokesperson said: 'The Government is steadfastly committed to tackling illegal migration and stopping dangerous small boat crossings.

'The Government will continue to identify appropriate sites for Greek-style asylum reception centres which will play a key role in reducing the number of asylum seekers in hotels which cost the taxpayer more than 5 million each day.'
A self-professed paedophile who blackmailed dozens of girls as young as 12 into becoming his 'sex slaves' today pleaded guilty to his crimes.

Jordan Croft, 26, of West Sussex, forced his victims to perform sexual and degrading acts on themselves and other children as part of his depraved desires.

Croft was caught after he was linked to 20 different online profiles in which he would intimidate victims aged between 12 and 22 before coercing them into his 'contract of sexual slavery'.

Once online Croft would weave his web of deceit, conning victims into believing he was a teenage boy so he could befriend them before confessing he was a much older 'catfish' who was 'into girls aged 12-14'.

He would then demand his 26 different victims to send him increasingly graphic child sexual abuse images and videos on demand.

On just one messaging platform he contacted more than 5,000 people, and would label the abuse the children sent him with a list of their social media followings, in addition to their names and ages.

Jordan Croft, 26, of West Sussex, forced his victims to perform sexual and degrading acts on themselves and other children as part of his depraved desires

Croft's stash was even designed to cover his traces, with all content uploaded to a USB device he owned being programmed to ensure activity was deleted once plugged into a computer.

He today pleaded guilty to 65 counts which include inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, blackmail, intentionally causing the sexual exploitation of a child.

Croft will appear before Lewes Crown Court for sentencing on Thursday, November 10.

One of Croft's rules was that all victims must speak to him on Telegram, an encrypted platform, and send him any photographs or videos he requested.

He would first ask for a naked 'custom pic' that he would decide on, and use that to leverage increasingly depraved and graphic content.

Croft would request images and videos were sent in a very short timeframe, further dominating them by forcing them to ask permission to go to the toilet and inform him when they would be busy, so he didn't think they were ignoring him.

Numerous police forces had filed reports of online abuse connected to Croft.

Once they identified him as the paedophile behind multiple usernames, they arrested him in September 2019, seizing two mobile phones and a USB stick.

The messaging applications were on an encrypted side of both phones where Croft collected the vile material from his child victims.

Even more content was discovered on the USB stick which was programmed to ensure all traces of activity were deleted after it was plugged into the computer.

Croft's charges include multiple counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, blackmail, making unwarranted demands for indecent images of children, intentionally causing or inciting the sexual exploitation of a child.

He was also charged with making more than 900 indecent images of children in categories A-C. Category A images are the most obscene, with a minimum of six years imprisonment for making them.

Martin Ludlow, senior investigating officer at the National Crime Agency, who led the investigation, said: 'Jordan Croft is a prolific offender who has caused heart-breaking suffering to many victims and their families.

'The sexual depravity he consistently displayed during this abuse of both young female children and adults is horrific.

At Lewes Crown Court, Croft today pleaded guilty to 65 counts which include inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, blackmail, intentionally causing the sexual exploitation of a child

'Like many offenders Croft thrived on the power he was able to exert over the victims. He sought the feeling of control and obtained it by deceit and abuse.

'He showed no compassion for the victims, pushing them to breaking point and issuing threats, even when they begged him to stop.

'I commend these young women who have shown such bravery in speaking out against him.

'Croft is an example of an adult sexual offender who deploys plausible online profiles to hide their real identity and exploit children.

'We know children are increasingly sharing personal material on social media sites, but I urge them be aware of the hurt and long term damage manipulative offenders like Croft cause, and to think carefully about who they may be communicating with online.

'The NCA will continue to pursue the most serious offenders, including those who believe they can hide behind the anonymity of the internet to abuse children. Like Croft they will be brought to justice.'

Heather Wilkinson of the CPS said: 'Croft admitted to sexually abusing 26 people and actively sought victims as young as 12 to sexually abuse and exert power over.

'Although he attempted to hide his activity through private networks, evidence uncovered against him included age filters he set on a phone app and the controlling rules he shared.

'This guilty plea means the victims of his abuse will now not be forced to re-live their trauma through a trial.

'Our Organised Child Sexual Abuse Unit has specialist prosecutors to enable us to bring offenders like Croft to justice, helping stop online abuse and extortion, and its devastating impact on victims.'

Croft today pleaded guilty to all 65 counts at Lewes Crown Court and is due back at court for sentencing on 10 November.
A pensioner accused of killing a baby in a car crash had undiagnosed dementia when the fatal collision happened, a court has heard.

Shelagh Robertson, 75, is said to have been suffering from dementia which went undetected and untreated during the pandemic, when there were fewer opportunities for face-to-face contact.

Cambridge Crown Court heard Ms Robertson was driving home after shopping in Tesco in Waterbeach, Cambridgeshire on January 22 2021 when she drove into the path of an oncoming van.

The collision with the van forced it onto the pavement where it hit and killed five month-old Louis Thorold and sent his mother, Rachael Thorold, flying into the air and left her with serious injuries.

Shelagh Robertson, 75, outside Cambridge Crown Court on August 8. The court was told a person with her symptoms of dementia 'would be strongly advised not to drive'

Five month-old baby Louis Thorold was killed in the crash while his mother Rachael suffered serious injuries

Ms Robertson, of Stables Yard, Waterbeach denies causing the infant's death by careless driving and is on trial.

Adam Zeman, professor of cognitive of behavioural neurology at the University of Exeter, was instructed by defence lawyers to compile a report on Robertson.

He said Ms Robertson had 'dementia caused most probably by Alzheimer's disease in a slightly atypical presentation.'

Prof Zeman added Ms Robertson would have been at 'high risk of becoming confused at that junction and one possible outcome of the confusion would be to look the wrong way.'

He added: 'It's a difficult junction for the average healthy driver.'

Prof Zeman said: 'Some forms of dementia are diagnosed relatively late as the features are rather subtle.

'The time her problems were getting more severe coincided with the pandemic so there would have been fewer opportunities for face-to-face contact than there normally would be.'

Dashcam footage of the crash shows Ms Robertson's car turning across the road into the path of the van before colliding with it - causing it to hit Louis and Rachel Thorold

Louis's parents Chris and Rachael Thorold (right) arrive at the court on June 1. The incident occurred in January 2021

He added Ms Robertson had 'few close relatives' and her husband was 'severely unwell', which was significant as 'it's often the spouses who bring you along' to a dementia clinic.

Jurors were shown an MRI scan of the defendant's brain, which Prof Zeman said showed 'shrinkage' of a part of the brain associated with memory and language.

He said that if he had a patient with the 'difficulties' he saw in Ms Robertson he would 'advise them immediately not to drive'.

Prof Zeman said language difficulties observed 'more subtly' in Ms Robertson by her friend Angela Brown around 2016 to 2017 may have been an early sign of her dementia.

Former teacher Ms Brown, who said she has known Ms Robertson since around 2010, told the court that she was last driven by the defendant in around the winter of 2018.

She recalled the occasion in 2018 when she was a passenger in Ms Robertson's car, and Robertson approached a junction on the A10 and 'seemed uncertain of how to proceed'.

'I began to feel unsafe and wondered if something was the matter,' she said.

Ms Brown said she also noticed that Ms Robertson had begun to have difficulty with sewing and knitting.

James Leonard, defending, said Ms Robertson will not be called to give evidence.

The trial, due to last less than a week, continues.
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Around 40 migrants including children have made the dangerous journey to cross the English Channel today, as the total number of migrants arriving in the UK during the first nine days of August passes 2,000.

Yesterday, nearly 400 migrants crossed the English Channel by small boat  bringing the total so far this month to 2,271.

Border Force intercepted 386 people at sea while they were trying to make the perilous journey across the 21-mile Dover Straits.

According to official government data, this means 2,271 people have arrived in the UK via dinghy or other small craft in August alone.

This figure is set to continue rising as dozens more people were brought into Dover, Kent today.

While the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is yet to confirm the figures for Tuesday, it is believed that around 40 migrants were escorted into the harbour on board Border Force ship Typhoon this morning.

Among the latest arrivals were at least four small children  two of which were led along the gangway for processing by a female soldier who held their hands

It is believed that around 40 migrants were escorted into the harbour on board Border Force ship Typhoon this morning. Pictured, people thought to be migrants in Dover this morning

Among the latest arrivals were at least four small children  two of which were led along the gangway for processing by a female soldier who held their hands.

The busiest day so far this year came on August 1 when 696 migrants were intercepted at sea by Border Force in just 14 boats  an average of around 50 migrants per vessel.

As it stands, a total of 18,670 people have crossed the Channel, according to data released by the MoD.

In 2021, 28,526 people made the treacherous journey  compared to 8,410 who arrived in 2020.

It comes after the weekend saw more than 500 migrants make the perilous journey across the 21-mile Dover Straits in inflatable dinghies and other small craft.

According to official government data, 337 people arrived on British soil in 10 boats on Saturday, while a further 176 migrants were intercepted at sea in five vessels on Sunday.

The French coastguard (CROSS) in Griz Nez prevented a further 42 people from crossing the Channel in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The busiest day so far this year came on August 1 when 696 migrants were intercepted at sea by Border Force in just 14 boats. Pictured, children arriving in Dover today

Border Force officials escorted migrants to Dover Docks after they crossed the English Channel this morning

After being made aware of a boat in difficulty in the Calais Straits, the CROSS tasked the French Navy rescue tug Abeille Normandie with rescuing a group of stranded people.

Abeille Normandie picked up 42 migrants and dropped them at the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer where they were taken care of by the departmental fire and rescue service and the border police.

'The rise in dangerous Channel crossings is unacceptable,' a Government spokesperson said.

'Not only are they an overt abuse of our immigration laws, but they risk lives and hinder our ability to help refugees who come to the UK through safe and legal routes.

'The Nationality and Borders Act will enable us to crack down on abuse of the system and the evil people smugglers, who will now be subject to a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

'Under our new Migration and Economic Development Partnership with Rwanda, we are continuing preparations to relocate those who are making dangerous, unnecessary and illegal journeys into the UK in order for their claims to be considered and rebuild their lives.'

In 2021, 28,526 people made the treacherous journey  compared to 8,410 who arrived in 2020. Pictured, people thought to be migrants arriving in Dover today

As it stands, a total of 18,670 people have crossed the Channel, according to data released by the Ministry of Defence. Pictured, people thought to be migrants arriving in Dover today

Police officers near the Boeing 767 aircraft at MoD Boscombe Down, near Salisbury, which failed to take off to Rwanda on June 14

MPs demand Rwanda plan be restarted as soon as possible as traffickers 'trick migrants into racing to Britain before Boris Johnson is replaced' The Rwanda scheme was championed by Home Secretary Priti Patel Albanian migrants are being conned by ruthless human traffickers into making dangerous Channel crossings before Britain's next Prime Minister takes office. Those making the perilous journey are being warned a new leader will halt all crossings with patrols, while also dropping their charges from 10,000 to 2,000. MPs last night called on ministers to redouble their efforts to deport migrants to Rwanda following a surge in Albanians using small boats to enter Britain. Leaked figures have revealed migrants from the Balkan country  a Nato member that wants to join the EU  now make up four in ten arrivals from northern France. The escalation saw 1,075 Albanians arrive in the UK aboard dinghies and small boats in the six weeks to July 12. They made up 37.5 per cent of all migrants trafficked to the UK in small boats by gangs during the period  eclipsing all other nationalities including Afghans, Iranians, Iraqis and Syrians. Advertisement

Last night, MPs called on ministers to redouble their efforts to deport migrants to Rwanda following a surge in Albanians using small boats to enter Britain.

Those making the perilous journey are being warned a new Prime Minister will halt all crossings with patrols, while also dropping their charges from 10,000 to 2,000.

Leaked figures have revealed migrants from the Balkan country  a Nato member that wants to join the EU  now make up four in ten arrivals from northern France.

The escalation saw 1,075 Albanians arrive in the UK aboard dinghies and small boats in the six weeks to July 12.

They made up 37.5 per cent of all migrants trafficked to the UK in small boats by gangs during the period  eclipsing all other nationalities including Afghans, Iranians, Iraqis and Syrians.

Tory backbenchers called on the next prime minister to act urgently. Natalie Elphicke, Tory MP for Dover, said: 'It's clear many Albanians coming to the UK in small boats are not fleeing from war or persecution  they are economic migrants. This is blatant criminality and it underlines the urgency of getting on with Rwanda and similar schemes.'

Elsewhere, the charge for hiding inside a lorry is as high as 22,000, although it carries a much high risk of being caught, The Sun reports.

A source said: 'Albanians are being told hundred of people will be patrolling the Channel, fences will guard the coast and they will be sent back and lose their money.

'It's coming from the gangsters so they can cash in by creating a real influx.

'When there is a PM, a new lie will be created - whatever it takes to keep this evil trade going.'

Tom Hunt, the Tory MP for Ipswich, said the 'truly eye-opening' figures 'underline why it's so critical that the Government gets on and introduces the Rwanda scheme', adding: 'We need to bring this farce to a close. Legislation to bring the Rwanda scheme to fruition should be top of the 'in tray' when Parliament gets back after summer recess.'

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: 'No one should question this government's determination to break the gangs' business model.'

A source in Liz Truss's leadership campaign said: 'Liz has a plan to expand border force, ensure the European Convention on Human Rights works for Britain, and reform modern slavery laws which are being abused. The need for deterrence is key, which is why we will ensure the migration deal with Rwanda works, and look to strike other deals.'

A spokesman for Rishi Sunak's campaign said stopping crossings would be a top priority for him, adding: 'It is wholly unacceptable that migrants from peaceful countries, like Albania, are trying to enter the UK illegally.'

The number of Albanians who arrived by small boat in the six-week period, latest official data places the country much further down the league table of arrivals.

Just 271 reached Britain by small boat in the first quarter of this year and 757 in the whole of 2021. However, there were a total of almost 5,000 asylum claims made by Albanians in the year to March, suggesting growing numbers may be switching to small boats from other methods of entering the UK, such as hiding in lorries.

The Home Office did not offer an explanation for the rise in Albanian asylum seekers last night.

Richard Tice, of Reform UK, who obtained the leaked report said: 'If these people are not genuinely fleeing for their lives, then it is not up to the British taxpayer to support them.'

Clare Moseley, of refugee charity Care4Calais, questioned whether the Albanian surge could be an 'anomaly'. 'The evidence clearly shows that for the last few years the majority of people crossing the Channel were genuine refugees,' she said. 'If there has been a change, it seems that the success of small boat crossings is affecting the behaviour of smugglers.'

A government spokesman said: 'The rise in dangerous Channel crossings is unacceptable. The Nationality and Borders Act makes it a criminal offence to knowingly arrive in the UK illegally and we have introduced life sentences for those who facilitate illegal entry into the country.'

The TikTok 'summer sale' for migrants: Smuggler gangs launch 'closing down sale' and slash price of Channel crossings by 1,500 per person as traffickers target Albanians on social media

People traffickers have launched a 1,500-a-person 'summer sale' to cross the Channel illegally in a dinghy - mainly aimed at Albanians exploiting a loophole in UK anti-slavery laws - and advertised on TikTok with the promise: 'The French won't stop you - they will escort you safely until you reach the UK'.

Amid continuing calm waters and warm temperatures, 'never been cheaper' prices are being offered on social media with experts finding that at least a third of the 3,000 migrants who crossed from France in the past six weeks used one of the offers.

MPs have demanded that ministers redouble their efforts to deport migrants to Rwanda following a surge in Albanians using small boats to enter Britain, lured in with cut prices and the promise: 'Hurry Albanians  England is waiting.'

The price of crossing the Channel appears to have dropped from close to 20,000 to between 5,000 and 3,500 per person. In some cases it has been as low as 1,500 to fill inflatable boats landing on the Kent coast.

One advert said: 'Don't pay 17,800-18,000. They are passing by every day, it has never been cheaper', another shows a group in a dinghy grinning while holding the Albanian flag and promising safe passage to the UK for 5,000.

Albanians are understood to be using a loophole in UK anti-slavery laws by claiming that they are the victims of trafficking to Britain for forced work. It is said to help them claim asylum despite their home country not suffering civil war in 1997.

Multiple accounts have been discovered on TikTok selling Channel crossings and promising 'safe passage'

One of the TikTok accounts posted a video offering safe passage from Calais, northern France, for 5,000

Leaked figures have revealed migrants from the Balkan country now make up four in ten arrivals from northern France with 1,075 Albanians arriving in the UK aboard dinghies and small boats in the six weeks to July 12.

They made up 37.5 per cent of all migrants trafficked to the UK in small boats by gangs during the period  now eclipsing all other nationalities including Afghans, Iranians, Iraqis and Syrians.

And TikTok is being used to lure them in with nine criminal gangs said to run the route to Britain. Experts are split, with some claiming it is a sale to coincide with the hot and dry summer Europe is enjoying while others believe it is 'a closing down sale as they [gangs] are getting scared that the Rwanda policy will take off'.

Tony Smith, former director general of Border Force, told the Telegraph: 'It may be the business model is struggling to handle new markets like Albania and may have to do a bit more of this sales pitch to encourage more people to do it.'

The 'summer sale' is said to be contributing to a rise in crossings. And now multiple accounts have been discovered on TikTok selling Channel crossings and promising 'safe passage' - along with advice on using the asylum system.

One such smuggler told an undercover reporter for The Sun: 'The French won't stop you. On the contrary, they will escort you safely until you reach the UK water border.'

A group of migrants including a babe in arms is taken into Dover yesterday

Around 200 people crossed yesterday - around a third are now usually Albanians

They were then told to contact a solicitor upon arrival in the UK who would help to concoct a 'good story'.

The smuggler added: 'I can give you a number of a solicitor I have used for my relatives. They have managed to secure documentation (permission to stay) for half the Albanians in London.'

He continued: 'Three months ago one boy was kept in detention for a month, then he was freed by his solicitor.

'All others I have talked to after they arrived were sent to hotels, then they disappeared. They went to their relatives.'

The man was speaking from the TikTok account @franc_gomone_angli1.

It comes as another 150 migrants including small children and a baby were picked up in Dover after being rescued from the English Channel on Monday - amid calls from MPs to restart the Rwanda plan as soon as possible.

Tory backbenchers have called on the next prime minister to act urgently.

Natalie Elphicke, Tory MP for Dover, said: 'It's clear many Albanians coming to the UK in small boats are not fleeing from war or persecution  they are economic migrants.

'This is blatant criminality and it underlines the urgency of getting on with Rwanda and similar schemes.'

Three accounts were found advertising the crossings, with one bragging about how the French let migrants through and promising a price of 3,500

Tom Hunt, the Tory MP for Ipswich, said the 'truly eye-opening' figures 'underline why it's so critical that the Government gets on and introduces the Rwanda scheme', adding: 'We need to bring this farce to a close.

'Legislation to bring the Rwanda scheme to fruition should be top of the 'in tray' when Parliament gets back after summer recess.'

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: 'No one should question this government's determination to break the gangs' business model.'

The reporter contacted three TikTok pages under the guise of a migrant seeking access to the UK.

One smuggler referred to himself as Gent and claimed to be the 'god' of people-smuggling.

He offered transport to the UK via a luxury yacht for 15,000 per person, while a second smuggler from Birmingham was selling seats in a dinghy for 8,000 for two people.

The @franc_gomone_angli1, which has posted videos from Crossing attempts, also said the Rwanda migrant policy has been 'cancelled' and the Government 'will send you to a hotel'.

A statement from TikTok said: 'This content has no place on TikTok. We don't allow content that promotes people smuggling.

'We work closely with UK law enforcement and industry partners to find and remove content of this nature, and participate in the joint action plan with the National Crime Agency to help combat immigration crime online.'

Home Secretary Priti Patel added: 'Social media posts promoting illegal crossings are totally unacceptable.

'We are looking at reforming the system we use to identify victims of modern slavery, so that we can support genuine victims while making sure that the system is not misused.'

French police foil migrants looking to sneak across the Channel by puncturing their dinghy with a KNIFE and smashing its outboard motor

ByMax Aitchison For The Daily Mail

This is the dramatic moment French police foiled an attempted Channel crossing by a group of around 45 migrants by puncturing the boat and smashing up its engine.

Just after sunset on Saturday evening in the sleepy holiday resort of Gravelines, between Calais and Dunkirk, migrants wearing red life vests emerged from the sand dunes and made a dash for the water.

Several women and men carried young children in their arms while a large group of mostly young men followed behind, hauling a black dinghy above their heads. But they were intercepted by a police car which raced across the beach, with officers bursting out to puncture the dinghy with a knife as the migrants scattered.

One fell to his knees with his hands covering his face as an officer appeared to use pepper spray. Police then smashed the outboard engine to pieces with a hammer and bemused holidaymakers looked on as the migrants walked dejectedly back to the dunes. No arrests were made.

This is the dramatic moment French police foiled an attempted Channel crossing by a group of around 45 migrants by puncturing the boat and smashing up its engine

Just after sunset on Saturday evening in the sleepy holiday resort of Gravelines, between Calais and Dunkirk, migrants wearing red life vests emerged from the sand dunes and made a dash for the water

The migrants were intercepted by a police car which raced across the beach, with officers bursting out to puncture the dinghy with a knife as the migrants scattered

Despite their elation, it came on a day when 10 small boats carrying 337 migrants successfully launched from the French coast and made it to the UK - with the total number this year alone now surpassing 18,000, according to Ministry of Defence figures.

The grim milestone was broken just five days after 696 people were rescued by Border Force and brought to shore last Monday, the busiest day for Channel crossings so far this year.

It is likely crossings will continue this week, with the Met Office predicting warm weather and calm winds on the south coast.

The location at Gravelines has been used by at least five smuggling gangs in recent months who are seemingly becoming ever-more brazen by attempting dangerous night crossings.

Elia Carpentier, 20, who works in the tourist office on the beachfront, told how she had seen a boat full of migrants leave the beach at 7pm on Friday.

I was really surprised because normally they leave when the sun goes down or at dawn, she said.

The boat waited for them at the edge of the water. Im not sure how many got on but there were men, women and children in the group.

The French police operation was the culmination of a tense, three-hour-long game of cat-and-mouse between officers and the migrants hiding in the scrubland behind the dunes.

From 6.30pm until sunset, a reporter and photographer from the Daily Mail lay in the sand at the waters edge, taking cover behind a pair of French bird hunters.

From that vantage point, it was possible to observe through binoculars two officers constantly monitoring a group of 18 young male migrants who kept moving through the scrubland.

Miss Carpentier, 20, who lives next to the beach at Gravelines, said it was an open secret where the migrants hid before attempting to cross the Channel.

At the far end of the beach there is a campsite and beyond that is a forest, she said.

They set up camp there for one or two nights before waiting for a boat. They just leave their stuff - I see it when I walk my dog.
Thiruvananthapuram: Several ordinances, including the Kerala Lokayukta (Amendment) Ordinance, issued by the LDF government lapsed on August 8 as Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan had not signed them owing to paucity of time to go through them, sources said.

The governor has not signed the ordinances which were to expire on August 8 and hence, they have lapsed, they said.

The governor, who was in Delhi on Monday and is scheduled to arrive here only on Wednesday, had told reporters that he will not sign the ordinances without applying his mind and for that he needs time.

Khan had claimed that the files of the ordinances, set to expire on August 8, were sent to him on the day he was going to travel to the national capital for a meeting of the 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' committee and therefore, did not have the time to go through all of them.

He had also said that ruling through ordinances "is not desirable in a democracy" and he was not going to approve their re-promulgation without going through the ordinances.

"I need time to go through them. I have to apply my mind. Do you want me to sign them without applying my mind? We must uphold the spirit of democracy and ruling through ordinances is not something which is desirable in a democracy," the Governor said.

"During certain emergencies, you can bring in an ordinance. Thereafter, it has to be ratified in the assembly session. It cannot happen that you continue promulgating the ordinance again and again. Why is there a Legislative Assembly if you are going to rule through ordinances," Khan had said.

In the instant case there is no explanation why such emergency measures should continue, he added.

On the other hand, Kerala Law Minister P Rajeeve on Monday afternoon had said that the Governor has not refused to sign the ordinances and the day was not over yet.

The minister had said that in the last two sessions, the budget and financial bill were the matters taken up.

Rajeeve had also said that even the Left government was against 'ordinance raj' and it had every intention to convene a session for ratifying the ordinances.

"There is still time," he had said in response to reporters queries regarding the ordinances set to expire at the end of the day on August 8.

Among the ordinances that expired on August 8, the Kerala Lokayukta (Amendment) Ordinance was one which provided that the Governor, Chief Minister or the state government would be the competent authority and he or it may either accept or reject the declaration by the Lokayukta, after giving an opportunity of being heard.

The Congress-led UDF opposition was against the ordinance and had back in February urged the Governor not to sign it.
Every holidaymaker knows the struggle in trying to secure the perfect sun lounger for a day of relaxing by the pool.

But these tourists were leaving nothing to chance as they desperately scrambled to reserve their dream spot.

Footage shared on TikTok shows the horde decked out in their hats and towels ready for a day of basking in the Majorcan heat.

Tourists in Palma de Mallorca race to reserve a sun lounger at 9am as they sprint alongside the pool

Some appeared to be sprinting at full speed as they overtook others in the mad rush for the limited seats

As soon as 9am struck, the competing holidaymakers started to run beside the pool adjacent to the hotel to lay their towels down and reserve their loungers.

Some appeared to be sprinting at full speed as they overtook others in the mad rush for the limited seats.

The video has been viewed millions of times online with one person commenting: 'Thats really sad that people would go to that lengths just to get a chair at the pool.'

It is no surprise that tourists are making an early morning dash for the sunspots with Europe in the grips of another sweltering heatwave.

France is in the midst of its fourth heatwave of the year while Spain announced that July was its hottest month in six decades.

National weather agency Meteo France said the heatwave began in the south and is expected to spread across the country and last until the weekend.

As soon as 9am struck, the competing holidaymakers started to run beside the pool adjacent to the hotel

Footage shared on TikTok shows the horde decked out in their hats and towels ready for a day of basking in the Majorcan heat

The southern half of France expects daytime temperatures of up to 40C (104F) and they will not drop below 20C (68F) during the night.

The high temperatures are not helping firefighters battling a wildfire in the Chartreuse Mountains, near the Alps in eastern France, where authorities have evacuated around 140 people.

Meteo France said this week's heatwave will not be as intense as the one last month when several regions experienced record-breaking temperatures.

But the high temperatures come during the most severe drought ever recorded, according to the government. Last month was the driest July since measurements began in 1959.

Meanwhile, Spain's national weather agency said the country has never had a month as hot as July in more than six decades.

Tourists cool off in a fountain on an empty square by the Royal Palace during a hot day with temperatures reaching 98F in Spain today

For the first time since records started in 1961, July registered an average temperature of 25.6C (78F) - 2.7C above the recorded average for any previous July.

The southern Andalusian town of Moron de la Frontera posted the highest temperature of the month with 46C (115) on July 24. The north-west Galicia region posted a record 44C (111F) in Ourense city.

The extreme heat and lack of rain has caused many wildfires and worsened drought in many areas.

The European Forest Fire Information System says 2022 has been the worst year so far in terms of scorched territory and the number of fires for Spain.

The agency said 240,000 hectares have been razed by more than 370 fires.

Portugal's weather service also said July was the hottest since national records began in 1931. The average temperature was 25.1C (77F), almost 3C higher than the expected monthly average.
A 12-year-old boy confessed to accidentally shooting his mother, a 29-year-old registered nurse, after he originally claimed she was killed by an intruder in the family's Forestdale, Alabama home.

Ayobiyi Cook, who friends called 'Yo-Yo', was found dead in the suburban home on the 2400 block of Freemont Avenue after midnight on August 6.

The youth, who was not identified by investigators with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, had originally told police that an intruder had entered their house, shot his mother and then ran away.

Ayobiyi Cook, 29, a registered nurse in Alabama, was accidentally killed by her 12-year-old son

Ayobiyi Cook, 29, celebrates here at a Mexican restaurant. She was killed when her 12-year-old boy accidentally shot her in her Forestdale home

Ayobiyi Cook and her husband Jarvis Cook, a Birmingham police officer, was working at the time of her death

Ayobiyi Cook and her husband, Jarvis Cook; the father will look after the boy after the youth accidentally shot his mother

'The child originally fabricated a story that detectives determined was not possible,' Deputy Chief David Agee said.

'After investigation, Sheriffs Detectives were able to determine that the victims 12-year-old son unintentionally discharged a firearm striking his mother causing her death.'

After more probing, the boy finally changed his story.

The Cook family home on Freemont Avenue where Ayobiyi Cook was accidentally shot by her 12-year-old son

'The child eventually gave a true account of what happened,' Agree said. 'Evidence on the scene supports that the shooting was unintentional and the offense will be addressed through the Family Court system. The family has been cooperative throughout the process and the child will remain with them.'

The boy's father is an officer with the Birmingham Police Department and was working at the time of the shooting, according to Birmingham Real-Time News.

The boy told police that he had seen the man running away from the suburban home.

'This offense is a tragedy for the Cook family and the entire community,' Agee said.

The funeral for the slain mom will be held on August 12 at the Faith Memorial Chapel in Bessmer, Alabama.

Loved ones are encouraged to wear orange, which was her favorite color.
A convicted Islamic terrorist who helped a teenage jihadist join Islamic State in Syria has been sent back to jail for keeping secret financial accounts from authorities.

Muslim convert Kristen Brekke was 19 when he was convicted of preparation of terrorist acts and jailed for four-and-a-half years following an Old Bailey trial in 2016.

Brekke was one of three men jailed for helping a teenage jihadi follow in his big brother's footsteps and Islamic State fighters in Syria in 2014.

The Welshman helped Aseel Muthana, 18, travel to the Middle East like his 21-year-old brother, Nasser, who he left his Cardiff home in February 2014 for Syria.

Brekke knew Muthana from working alongside him at 'Ice Cream Passion' in Cardiff and together filmed themselves holding an imitation gun on a hillside known locally as 'Asda Hill' because it overlooks the supermarket.

Brekke bought items for potential use in combat, such as camouflage clothing, on eBay, although Aseel did not take most of them with him.

At the end of the 2016 trial, Brekke, of Grangetown, Cardiff, was convicted of preparation of terrorist acts and jailed for four-and-a-half years.

Brekke reappeared at the Old Bailey today after to admitting four breaches of an anti-terrorism order and was sentenced to nine months in prison.

Convicted terrorist Kristen Brekke (pictured in 2016) has been jailed for nine months for not informing police about two cars he was using and about a Binance account he opened, as well as a pre-paid card account provided by Pockit

Aseel Muthana (pictured) fled Cardiff to join Islamic State with the help of Brekke and two other

Brekke (left) was jailed back in 2016 with Adeel Ulhaq (middle) and Forhad Rahman (right) for helping a teenage jihadi join fighters in Syria

Two of the offences related to Brekke driving cars, namely a Fiat Panda and a Silva Ford when he used them to drive his new employer 'as a favour' without notifying police.

The other two offences resulted from failing to notify police of relevant changes in financial information after he opened a crypto-currency account with Binance and a pre-paid card account with Pockit.

The charges dated from between 4 October 2019 and 9 May this year.

Jailing him today, judge Angela Rafferty, QC, said: 'In my judgment you complied with the requirement until it became too difficult to do so and then you made decisions to try to avoid the rigorous...requirements.

'It cannot be that terrorist offenders can have unmonitored access to any financial accounts and vehicles.'

Judge Rafferty accepted that 'no harm' was actually caused as the accounts had not been used and the cars were private vehicles that he drove 'as a favour' to his employer.

She added there was no evidence that Brekke committed the breaches for further offending.

Judge Angela Rafferty accepted that the accounts had not been used and the cars were private vehicles that he drove 'as a favour' to his employer

Jacob Bindman, defending, said the accounts were 'never used' and that the driving offences were 'part of legitimate employment'.

Mr Bindman called them 'narrow breaches' that had 'no link whatsoever' to terrorism or his previous offending.

The barrister told the court that Brekke had a family - a wife and two children.

'They are about three months away from losing their property altogether.

'His need to be back in the community and providing for his family is very significant.

'He was doing everything he could to hold onto a job that was very difficult to come by...that he desperately needed.

'Harm is undoubtedly extremely low.'

Brekke was locked up for nine months and after serving two-thirds of the sentence, will be subject to an additional year on licence.
A Egyptian dad has been convicted of murder and will now spend his life in prison after he fatally shooting his two teenage daughters in 2008 in an 'honor killing.'

Yaser Said, 65, who lived in Dallas, Texas, was found guilty of capital murder in the deaths of 18-year-old Amina Said and 17-year-old Sarah Said - 12 years after the girls were tragically found dead.

Prosecutors did not pursue the death penalty, meaning cab driver Yaser Said receives an automatic life sentence for the heinous crimes.

On the stand on Monday, Said denied that he killed his daughters and told the court that the girls were 'certainly' alive when he left them in the taxi that evening and fled after he apparently became fearful that he was being followed.

The cab driver explained that he and his daughters were on their way to dinner when he attempted to escape whoever he believed was following them by leaving the girls in his taxi and taking the bus in a different direction.

But prosecuting attorney Lauren Black told jurors that the dad was 'obsessed with possession and control'.

The teen sisters were found shot to death in a taxi parked in the parking lot of the Omni Mandalay Hotel in Irving, Texas, on New Year's Day in 2008.

Jurors heard a that Sarah Said made a 911 call by cellphone, telling the operator that her father had shot her and that she was dying.

The operator heard: 'Help, my dad shot me! I'm dying.'

Sarah Said was shot nine times and Amina Said was shot twice. Investigators said Amina was killed instantly.

A week before they were killed, the teen girls and their mother fled their home in the Dallas suburb of Lewisville and went to Oklahoma to escape Said. The sisters boyfriends also joined them.

Yaser Said, 65, was found guilty of capital murder in the deaths of 18-year-old Amina Said and 17-year-old Sarah Said. Prosecutors did not pursue the death penalty, meaning Yaser Said receives an automatic life sentence

The sisters were found shot to death in a taxi parked near a hotel in the Dallas suburb of Irving on New Years Day in 2008. Jurors heard a 911 call Sarah Said made by cellphone, telling the operator that her father had shot her and that she was dying

Yaser Said, an Egyptian-born cab driver who lived with his family just north of Dallas, Texas, allegedly shot his daughters, 17-year-old Sarah (center) and 18-year-old Amina (right), to death in his taxi after telling them they were going out to eat on New Years Day 14 years ago

The prosecutor said the sisters had become 'very scared for their lives,' and decided to leave after their father 'put a gun to Aminas head and threatened to kill her.'

Mother Patricia Owens, who is divorced from Said, testified that he convinced her to return to Texas. She testified: 'I didnt think anything would happen.'

In a letter written to the judge, Said wrote that he was not happy with his daughters 'dating activity' but he denied killing them.

It is widely speculated Said committed the honor killing - a practice where individuals are murdered for bringing perceived shame on their family - after he discovered Amina had a non-Muslim boyfriend and because he thought they were becoming 'too American.'

On Monday, Said insisted that he did not kill his daughters. He said he fled the taxi he was driving that evening because he thought they were being followed and someone wanted to kill him.

The father said he did not turn himself in to authorities because he feared he would not get a fair trial.

The sisters were allegedly murdered by their own father, 17-year-old Sarah (left) and 18-year-old Amina (right)

Said (right) pictured with his son Islam, and daughters Sarah (center, right) and Amina (left). Islam helped harbor his father after he allegedly murdered the girls

In an email sent on December 21, 2007, Amina Said told a teacher that she and her sister planned to run away.

She said they didn't want to live by the culture of their father, who was born in Egypt, nor did they want arranged marriages, as he planned.

Her father, she said, had 'made our lives a nightmare.' The email added: 'He will, without any drama nor doubt, kill us.'

Said's abuse of his family extended back as far as 1998, when Owens and the girls signed an affidavit alleging he had sexually abused his daughters.

Those charges were later dropped after the girls recanted their story because they said they didn't want to be forced to relocate.

In the years following those allegations, friends of the girls reported they often saw them wit bruises on their bodies or witnessed Said being physically violent to his family.

The girls reportedly confided in friends that their father was obsessively controlling, and that they often feared he was surveilling them wherever they went.

After the slayings, Said was sought on a capital murder warrant, and was placed on the FBIs most-wanted list.

He was finally arrested arrested in August 2020 in Justin, about 35 miles northwest of Dallas.

His son, Islam Said, and his brother, Yassim Said, were subsequently convicted of helping him evade arrest.

Both relatives are serving sentences in federal prison.

Said's son, Islam (left) and his brother, Yassein (right). They are both serving time in federal prison for harboring Said while he was a wanted fugitive

Said vanished after his daughters' bodies were found, and made it onto the FBI Most Wanted Fugitives list in the following years
Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Tuesday that 'no one is above the law' and noted the FBI raid on Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home would have had some legal justification.

Pelosi, who repeatedly sparred with Trump when she was speaker and he was president, said she had no special knowledge of the Monday raid.

'All I know about that is what is in the public domain. I was surprised that it flashed on my phone last evening,' the speaker said on MSNBC's Morning Joe.

'A visit like that you need a warrant. To have a warrant you need justification. And that says that no one is above the law -- not even a president or a former President of the United States.'

The raid was reported to be part of an investigation into whether the former president took classified documents with him when he left the White House.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that 'no one is above the law' and noted the FBI raid on Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home would have had some legal justification

The FBI raid was reported to be part of an investigation into whether the former president took classified documents with him when he left the White House - above Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday

Trump, in his dramatic announcement of the raid on Monday night, didn't say specifically what the federal agents were looking for, just that his Florida home was 'under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents.'

'They even broke into my safe!' the former president complained.

Pelosi said she expected more details would become public soon.

'All of this will, I'm sure, be made known to us over time. But I have no knowledge of it. I do know that there has been chatter or what -- more than chatter about the president's documents and how they must be preserved for history. And we'll see what the justification was for the raid. I just don't know. I think everybody was surprised by it,' she said.

FBI agents entered Trump's Florida residence on Monday and spent hours there going through his private office.

The raid was said to be court authorized and the FBI gave US Secret Service agents at Mar-a-Lago advance notice and they cooperated letting them into the property, NBC News reported.

Donald Trump was spotted leaving Trump Tower in New York on Monday night after announcing his Mar-a-Lago home had been raided by the FBI

Trump took 15 boxes of material with him in January 2021 after he left Washington D.C. The boxes were returned to the National Archives a year later in January 2022 but agents on Monday were looking to see if Trump had additional material; above workers move boxes out of the Trump White House on January 14, 2021

Eric Trump said he was the one that got the call on the raid and told his father about it.

'I was the guy who got the call this morning and I called my father and let him know it happened, and I was involved all day,' he told Fox News host Sean Hannity. 'Welcome to politics in the 2020s.'

'To have 30 FBI agents -- actually more than that -- descend on Mar-a-Lago, give absolutely, you know, no notice, go through the gates, start ransacking an office, ransacking a closet -- you know, they broke into a safe. He didn't even have anything in the safe. I mean, give me a break.'

He charged President Joe Biden's White House as the force behind the raid.

'This didn't come from a local FBI field office in Palm beach, Florida. You know this came from? This came from one place and one building, and that is the White House in Washington, D.C. They want to attack a guy who they view as his greatest threat, Biden's greatest threat,' Eric Trump said.

Biden's White House had no heads up on the matter. Senior White House officials found out about it via Twitter, the New York Times reported.

The investigation is focused on material that Trump brought with him to Mar-a-Lago after he left the White House, the New York Times reported, specifically if he has classified information in his private possession, which would be a violation of federal law.

Trump took 15 boxes of material with him in January 2021 after he left Washington D.C. The boxes were returned to the National Archives a year later in January 2022 but agents on Monday were looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at his South Florida estate, the AP reported.

The search focused on the area of the club where Trump's offices and personal quarters are, CNN reported, noting Trump's personal attorney Christinia Bobb was present during the search.

And, during a meeting at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year, Trump's attorney showed federal investigators documents that were being kept on site, including some that were marked classified, the network noted.

The Justice Department wouldn't say whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorized the search but it's highly unlikely a raid on a former president would take place without the AG giving it the stamp of approval.

In February, the National Archives and Records Administration asked DoJ to examine whether the former president violated federal law. There are multiple statutes governing classified information, including a law punishable by up to five years in prison that makes it a crime to remove such records and retain them at an unauthorized location.

National Archives officials recovered 15 boxes of White House materials from Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in mid-January.

Among the items Trump had to return were correspondence with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that Trump has described as 'beautiful letters' and a handwritten letter that former President Barack Obama had left behind in the Oval Office for his successor.
The Pogues' bass player Darryl Hunt has died aged 72 and his band mates have paid tribute to him.

The band's official social media account today announced that he died on Monday afternoon in London, by quoting their song Love You 'Till The End, which was written by the bassist.

They said: 'I know you want to hear me catch my breath / I love you till the end.'

Hunt, born in Hampshire on May 4 1950, joined the Irish London punk rock group first as roadie and then as a bassist in 1986.

He then went on to collaborate on their 1988 album If I Should Fall From Grace With God which featured the Christmas hit Fairytale Of New York.

Frontman Shane MacGowan called him a 'great friend and a great bass player' while also expressing his sadness at the band's loss.

The Pogues' bass player Darryl Hunt has died aged 72 and his band mates have paid tribute to him with lyrics from his hit song

The punk group best known for Christmas hit Fairytale in New York said on Twitter they were 'saddened beyond words' to share that Hunt had died on Monday afternoon in London. Pictured: Spider Stacy (L) and Darryl Hunt (R) of The Pogues perform at Terminal 5 in March 2011 in New York City

Shane MacGowan (left), Darryl Hunt (middle) and Spider Stacy (right), pictured, as they perform on stage at the Manchester Apollo in December 2013

Hunt (pictured, left, in 2013 at the funeral of The Pogues guitarist Philip Chevron and right performing at the O2 in 2010), born in Hampshire on May 4 1950, joined the Irish London punk rock group first as roadie and then as a bassist in 1986

Hunt started out as part of the pub rock band Plummet Airlines and The Favourites.

Beginning his time as a roadie, according to RTE, he was first involved in the London Irish band's 1988 album If I Should Fall From Grace With God which featured the Christmas hit Fairytale Of New York.

Hunt featured in material until their last album, Pogue Mahone, in 1996 and also has writing credits on a number of their songs including Love You Til the End.

Bandmate Spider Stacy paid tribute to Hunt on Twitter, writing: 'This is wretched. See you around the way, Daz. 'It's in the fridge' #TrickyTrees''.

Frontman Shane MacGowan called him a 'great friend and a great bass player' while also expressing his sadness at the band's loss

Hunt (pictured in the background while performing with Shane McGowan in May 2014 in Italy) featured in material until their last album, Pogue Mahone, in 1996 and also has writing credits on a number of their songs including Love You Til the End

Hunt, who was born in Hampshire, England on May 4 1950, started out as part of the pub rock band Plummet Airlines and The Favourites. He then joined The Pogues in 1986, playing bass. Pictured: (L-R) James Fearnley, Terry Woods, Andrew Ranken, Shane MacGowan, Darryl Hunt, Spider Stacy, Jem Finer performing in March 1990 on Saturday Night Live

The band consisted of frontman Shane MacGowan, Jem Finer, James Fearnley, Andrew Ranken, Terry Woods, Hunt and other musicians throughout the years.

'I am very very sorry that Darryl has passed on, he was a really nice guy and a great friend and a great bass player,' MacGowan wrote on Twitter.

'We will all miss him. May he have a happy state of eternal bliss and bless his family and friends love Shane.'
A 26-year-old woman was found dead in the backseat of her car in the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of DUMBO early Monday morning under mysterious circumstances.

The woman was identified as Juliana Malave, of West 24th Street in Brooklyn, an NYPD spokesperson confirmed to DailyMail.com on Tuesday.

Early Monday morning, police responded to a 911 call of an unconscious and unresponsive woman around 7 a.m. in the vicinity of Adams Street and York Street.

Malave was found in the backseat of the parked vehicle when emergency personnel arrived. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 32-year-old man had told police he was in the car with Malave, but that he had left her and, when he returned, he said the woman was unresponsive, a report said.

The woman was identified as Juliana Malave, 26, an NYPD spokesperson confirmed to DailyMail.com on Tuesday

Police responded to a 911 call of an unconscious and unresponsive woman, who was in the backseat of the vehicle that was parked in the vicinity of Adams Street and York Street in the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood of DUMBO around 7 a.m. on Monday

The area where Malave's parked car was found in the trendy neighborhood of Dumbo

The man, whose identity wasn't revealed, was taken into police custody for further questioning and wasn't immediately charged, officials said.

An autopsy is being conducted by the city medical examiner's office to determine the manner and cause of death.

Malave's mother, Yolanda Medina, set up a GoFundMe in memory of her daughter.

Medina wrote that her daughter passed away on Monday, but didn't reveal the circumstances surrounding her sudden passing.

'Those of you who knew my daughter Juliana know that she was a great daughter, sister and friend. She wore her heart on her sleeve and always catered to others putting them first,' Medina wrote.

'As her mother I would like to give her the memorial she deserves, however due to my financial circumstances I was only able to afford a flight to come to New York so I can see my daughter for the last time.'

'I would really appreciate any help my family and I can obtain. All I wish is for a one day viewing for my daughter so I can bring her back home with me to Florida.

She added: 'And thank you in advance for all your condolences they are much appreciated at this time.'
Police are appealing for information after a wheelchair-bound man was left with 'life changing' injuries when he was attacked by a group of youths.

The vulnerable man in his 30s was attacked alongside a friend in his 40s in the Cathedral Green area of Salisbury, Wiltshire.

The pair were set upon and chased into the High Street and onto Crane Street by the gang at around 9:15pm on July 19.

The wheelchair-bound man has suffered 'potentially life changing' injuries as a result of the attack that left him 'incredibly distressed', reported police.

Detectives said, due to the location of the incident, they expect there are witnesses among the public yet to come forward.

Pictures show a group of four youths in their mid-teens, three men and one woman, captured on CCTV

In the photos, one teen male is pictured wearing a blue t-shirt

All four are wearing shorts, while the female is pictured in a white sleeveless top

Pictures show a group of four youths in their mid-teens, three men and one woman, captured on CCTV.

In the photos, one teen male is pictured topless, while the two other males are wearing a blue t-shirt and grey hoodie with white writing.

All four are wearing shorts, while the female is pictured in a white sleeveless top.

Police are now asking witnesses to assist them with their enquiries, particularly in identifying the individuals involved in the attack.

Det Con Susan Ellway said: 'This was a sustained attack, during which a vulnerable man has suffered serious injuries, which have left him incredibly distressed.

'The incident happened in a public place with a number of members of the public believed to be witnesses.

'We have already obtained a number of witness accounts and we would continue to urge anyone with information to get in touch.

'Behaviour of this nature is completely abhorrent and will not be tolerated within our community.

'I know those living in Salisbury will be frustrated and upset by this incident.

'We would like to reassure residents that we are conducting a robust investigation to identify those involved.'

Anyone with information is urged to call 101 and quote crime reference number 54220075949. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
An attorney for Donald Trump who was present when FBI agents were seizing documents from Mar-a-Lago claims the Department of Justice (DOJ) may pursue 'bogus charges' against her boss in a pair of Tuesday interviews.

Lawyer and TV host Christina Bobb made the accusation without offering any specific details during a pair of interviews on far-right, Trump-friendly networks the day after the former president's home was raided by federal agents.

The unannounced operation was linked to records sought by the National Archives, his son, Eric Trump, told Fox News that night.

Bobb told Right Side Broadcasting Network (RSBN) that agents were 'respectful' but insisted no crime on the former president's part.

'They were respectful and as far as I can tell, put everything back where they found it except for what they took. But, yeah, I mean, they went through everything,' she said, adding: 'There was a lot of them.'

'There are no crimes committed, there are no crimes here,' Bobb later said.

When asked on Real America's Voice whether evidence could have been 'planted,' Bobb replied: 'There is no security that something wasn't planted.'

'I'm not saying that's what they did,' the attorney followed-up.

Bobb also confirmed to RSBN that hardly anyone was present on the grounds save for herself and 'at least one other' attorney.

Christina Bobb, a lawyer for Trump and a host on One America News Network, admitted that some of the documents federal agents recovered could be 'classified' but quickly added that she believes they are not of any consequence

'Nobody really expected this to happen because President Trump himself, as well as his legal team, have been very cooperative with everything the FBI and the Department of Justice have wanted to do',

'They've allowed the FBI and DOJ on the premises before. you know, let them see whatever it was that they wanted to see. So the raid was really unnecessary and a bit overkill considering we had never withheld anything from them in the past.'

The former president was at Trump Tower in New York City at the time.

It was revealed in May that the DOJ was investigating whether Trump mishandled classified documents.

The National Archives asked the federal government to look into the matter after it recovered 15 boxes of files, some of which were labeled 'top secret,' from Mar-a-Lago earlier this year. The Archives said they were meant to be turned over when Trump left office in January 2021.

Federal investigators made a rare in-person visit to Mar-a-Lago in June where they asked to see the room where documents were being kept and spoke to staff about how they were handled, according to CNN.

It's not certain what federal agents were looking for on Monday or what they specifically recovered - but Bobb claimed there was nothing of consequence left at Trump's Florida retreat.

The former president was at Trump Tower in New York City when his Mar-a-Lago retreat was raided on Monday

Pro-Trump protesters stands behind the Mar-a-Lago estate the morning after it was raided by FBI agents

A view from behind Mar-a-Lago the day after the raid. Investigators reportedly targeted the area containing Trump's private quarters and office

'We went through everything and there wasn't anything of substance in there. So if they try to claim that there was something really damning, that that will be very concerning to me,' the lawyer and One America News host said.

'However, I think it's more likely than not that they will come up with a bogus charge with little to no evidence.'

She suggested there could be some files recovered labeled 'classified secret' but hastily added she believes they would have 'no significant meaning.'

Both pro-Trump and establishment Republicans have united with their outrage over the raid, while Democrats have cheered it as an important step toward holding the ex-president accountable.

Trump himself released a lengthy statement on Monday night publicly revealing the raid and claiming he is a victim of political persecution.

'These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents,' Trump said through his Save America PAC.

'I stood up to America s bureaucratic corruption, I restored power to the people, and truly delivered for our Country, like we have never seen before. The establishment hated it. Now, as they watch my endorsed candidates win big victories, and see my dominance in all polls, they are trying to stop me, and the Republican Party, once more. The lawlessness, political persecution, and Witch Hunt must be exposed and stopped.'
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A New Mexico ranch built on sprawling land once owned by fashion designer Tom Ford, 60, has hit the market for $8.95million.

The stunning property is located remotely outside the village of Youngsville, about a two-and-a-half hour drive around the Valles Caldera National Reserve north of Albuquerque.

Known as The River Ranch or 'Estancia de Rio,' the rustic house has four bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths spread over 4,500 square feet.

It stands on a 1,000 acres of valleys, rivers, and desert mesas, and was built 'to take advantage of the pink and red hills and valley of the Piedra Lumbre land grant,' the Sotheby's listing reads, 'which was memorialized by internationally acclaimed artist Georgia O'Keefe.'

The luxurious house was built between 2011 and 2012 after Ford sold the property in favor of his massive 20,662-acre Cerro Pelon ranch, which he owned until selling it last year for $48 million.

Estancia de Rio is being sold by musician Fred Haas, according to the New York Post, who said he was selling the ranch so his horses could be closer to Santa Fe.

'I love it here and bought it for the peace and quiet, to just be in nature and as a get away,' Haas said, 'It's so beautiful, I hate to sell it.'

A New Mexico ranch built on sprawling land once owned by fashion designer Tom Ford has hit the market for $8.95million

The house, known as The River Ranch or 'Estancia de Rio,' has four bedrooms and four-and-a-half baths spread over 4,500 square feet

The house was built between 2011 and 2012 after Ford sold the property in favor of his massive 20,662-acre Cerro Pelon ranch, which he owned until selling it last year for $48 million

On the southern border of the valley where the property is located and visible from the house is Cerro Pedernal mountain, which was featured in one of Georgia O'Keefe's most famous paintings

Georgia O'Keefe's famous painting of Cerro Pedernal mountain, which is visible from the property now for sale for $8.95million

The gorgeous four-bed home first hit the market in 2019 for a cool $12million.

The house's steel and concrete frame is coated in a facade of stacked stones, and features large picture-windows which bring the New Mexico landscapes into each room.

As well as the main property, the listing also features a number of separate guest houses - 'casitas,' as the listing calls them - which are joined by landscaped stone paths.

The unique houses were designed by Santa Fe architect John Wolf, and 'each structure is a stand-alone piece of artwork, capturing the essence of the environment through light and form, while interweaving the comforts of a high-end luxury retreat,' the listing reads.

And the luxury home also features a large soaking pool and hot tub on the patio overlooking the sprawling landscape and the Rio Chama.

The house's steel and concrete frame is coated in a facade of stacked stones, and features large picture-windows which bring the New Mexico landscapes into each room

The property also features a number of separate guest houses - 'casitas,' as the listing calls them - which are joined by landscaped stone paths

The house was designed by Santa Fe architect John Wolf, and 'each structure is a stand-alone piece of artwork, capturing the essence of the environment through light and form, while interweaving the comforts of a high-end luxury retreat,' the listing reads

Estancia de Rio is being sold by musician Fred Haas, according to the New York Post, who said he was selling the ranch so his horses could be closer to Santa Fe

A typically sprawling view from the kitchen of the New Mexico ranch house which sits on 1,000 acres of valleys, rivers, and hlils

Alongside the quaint property is sprawling 500 acre parcel of land also for sale.

To the northwest of the home is the Chama River Canyon Wilderness area, and to the northeast across the Rio Chama is the Carson National Forest.

On the southern border of the valley where the property is located and visible from the house is Cerro Pedernal mountain, which was featured in many of Georgia O'Keefe's most famous paintings.

'She called it her mountain,' Haas said, 'And you can see it from my doorstep.'

The spectacular New Mexico ranch is being sold by Associate Broker and Realtor Gary Bobolsky. He can be reached at gary.bobolsky@sothebys.realty

The property is located remotely outside the village of Youngsville, about a two-and-a-half hour drive around the mountains north of Albuquerque

To the northwest of the property is the Chama River Canyon Wilderness area, and to the northeast across the Rio Chama is the Carson National Forest
HYDERABAD: A division bench of the Telangana High Court comprising Chief Justice Ujjal Bhuyan and Justice C.V. Bhaskar Reddy on Monday issued stay orders on the implementation of Government Order 121 issued by the finance department on July 23, through which the state government commenced the process of redeploying village revenue officers (VROs) working in various districts to other departments.

The court said the VROs, who have not been redeployed yet, shall be continued in the revenue department and they have to be paid salaries until further orders. The interim orders will not be applicable to VROs who have already joined other departments.

The bench was hearing a writ petition filed by the Telangana Village Revenue Officers Association represented by its president Golkanda Satish and Pagilla Venkataiah, VRO, Mahmudapuram village, Nalgonda. They challenged the Telangana Abolition of Posts of Village Revenue Officers Act, 2020 (Act No. 10 of 2020) and all consequential proceedings and orders issued by the government including GO 121.

P.V. Krishnaiah, counsel for the petitioners, informed the court that the government, through an executive order (GO.121) passed the order for the redeployment of VROs. He argued that it was enough to declare that the GO was invalid. Redeploying VROs in other departments was in sheer and blatant violation of various sections of VROs Abolition Act, 2020 as the finance department had no role in the issue, he said. The Chief Secretary had no power to issue such a GO, submitted the counsel.

According to a Presidential Order, each post in each department in each district was a distinct cadre and therefore the VRO who was working in the revenue department which was a district cadre post could not be transferred to another department either in the same district or another district until and unless the appropriate government amended the order issued by the President of India under Article 371 of the Constitution of India, counsel said.

Justice Ujjal Bhuyan questioned Advocate-General B.S. Prasad why the government had not framed rules and implemented instructions issued in the GO.121, more particularly, instructions issued in paragraph number 3. He further observed that mere making law was not sufficient, and the law became operational only when it was accompanied by the relevant rules. The court then issued orders staying GO 121.
An Irish tourist has drowned at a swimming pool in a resort town on Spain's Costa Dorada.

Emergency services raced to the holiday apartment block in La Pineda near the east coast city of Tarragona after the alarm was raised around 11am this morning.

First responders tried to revive the man at the scene but were unable to save him, with the holidaymaker tragically being pronounced dead at the scene.

Police sources have confirmed the man was Irish, and his body was removed for a post-mortem examination.

The pool where he drowned was part of an apartment complex five minutes from the beach called Apartments Pineda Park.

A spokesman for the regional Mossos d'Esquadra police force said: 'There is nothing at this stage to suggest this man's death was the result of a crime and it is being treated as accidental.'

The Irish tourist was at an apartment block (pictured) in the Spanish town of La Pineda when he drowned this morning

Emergency responders (stock image) were called to the scene but were unable to save the man

The unnamed tourist is said to have been staying in the area with relatives. It is not immediately clear if his family witnessed the drowning.

The five-floor holiday apartment block where the tragedy occurred describes itself online as 'ideal for the accommodation of families with children and couples who want to spend a vacation on the Costa Dorada, where the best beaches on the Mediterranean coast are located.'

It is five minutes by car from the Port Aventura theme park, which is home to Europe's tallest and fastest rollercoaster.

The man had been staying in the town of La Pineda, near to Tarragona on the Spanish Costa Dorada

Staff declined to comment this afternoon 'out of respect for the dead man's family.'

The Costa Dorada, which translates as the Golden Coast in English, is a strip of Mediterranean coastline in Spain's Catalonia region southwest of Barcelona.

La Pineda, between Tarragona and the lively town of Salou, is famed for its large sandy beach which makes it particularly popular for family tourism.

In June an Irish seven-year-old died in hospital two days after being pulled from her hotel pool in Majorca and revived before being rushed to an intensive care unit.

The child had been staying with her family at the four-star HYB Eurocalas Hotel in the east coast resort of Calas de Mallorca.

On June 5 six-year-old Corey Aughey from north Belfast died in hospital after falling into the swimming pool of the hotel where he was staying with his family in the Majorcan resort of Sa Coma near the Love Island villa.

In June five-year-old Corey Aughey died after falling into a swimming pool at the hotel he was staying at in the Majorcan resort of Sa Coma

On May 25 British toddler Freddie Joseph Briggs drowned in a pool at his parents' home in the village of Aigues near Benidorm, leading the local council to declare three days of mourning.

Tributes were paid to the 19-month-old boy at his funeral service at a church in Belfast where he was christened before he was buried at a nearby cemetery.

Father Thomas McGlynn told mourners at the service the youngster brought happiness to those around him and enjoyed his short life 'to the very full.'

The child's dad Marc Briggs, known to pals as Briggsy and thought to be from Mansfield, Notts, and Belfast-born mum Jane Mohan had moved to the Costa Blanca shortly before the tragedy.

On May 9 a British man drowned in a nearby river which had claimed the lives of three other people in the past month as he tried to save his dog.

In May former Royal Navy sailor Paul Lebihan died after getting into difficulties in the river at a beauty spot a short drive from the Costa Blanca resort of Benidorm

Former Royal Navy sailor Paul Lebihan, originally from Gateshead, died after getting into difficulties in the river at a beauty spot a short drive from the Costa Blanca resort of Benidorm.

Friends and loved ones later paid tribute to the 24-year-old keen amateur boxer and set up a GoFundMe appeal to help his family bring Paul's body home and assist with funeral costs.

In the early hours of June 7 a British holidaymaker died after falling onto rocks in Sitges south of Barcelona.

The 23-year-old man died instantly after losing his balance in an accident which police said at the time happened when he fell from a replica cannon in front of a church by the sea.
Computer repairman John Paul Mac Isaac told DailyMail.com if the FBI were 'doing their job right' they would raid Hunter Biden after seeing the laptop he turned over to them

The computer repairman who turned over Hunter Biden's laptop to the FBI said he's surprised they did not raid Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home sooner because of the inherent bias he's witnessed the agency have against the former president.

John Paul Mac Isaac told DailyMail.com that if the FBI were 'doing their job right' they would have already raided Hunter's home and arrested him based on what was found on the laptop.

'I never felt like it was my responsibility to share the contents of the laptop with anybody other than the proper authorities,' he said.

'I saw stuff about China, I saw a lot of porn, I saw a lot of drug use,' Mac Isaac detailed in a Tuesday interview. 'But I didn't care about any of that. I only cared about the criminality that revolved around Ukraine because that's what was in the news.'

Mac Isaac is telling the whole story of getting caught up in Hunter Biden's laptop scandal in his upcoming book American Injustice: My Battle to Expose the Truth, which will hit shelves on November 22, 2022  weeks after the midterm elections.

The shop owner said he has already spoken with Republican senators about potential future probes into Hunter should they retake a majority in Congress next year. He intends to cooperate with any investigations  especially if they involve cracking down on the FBI.

Specifically, Mac Isaac noted he spoke with the offices of Senators Chuck Grassley from Iowa and Ron Johnson from Wisconsin. Grassley is the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee and Johnson, in his capacity as a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, is ranking member of the Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation.

President Joe Biden's son gave his technical equipment to Mac Isaac on April 12, 2019 when trying to recover files from water damaged laptops. The repair shop owner said he thought he was trying to recover files related to his recently deceased brother Beau Biden, but found much different contents on the device.

He told DailyMail.com that he never intended to reveal the pornographic images or X-rated contents of the laptop. Rather, he wanted to bring to the attention of the FBI the criminality he found when recovering files.

Ma Isaac said: 'I never felt like it was my responsibility to share the contents of the laptop with anybody other than the proper authorities. I saw stuff about China, I saw a lot of porn, I saw a lot of drug use. But I didn't care about any of that. I only cared about the criminality that revolved around Ukraine'. Pictured: One of the many images found on Hunter Biden's hard drive

Hunter's lap top included several nude images, amateur porn videos and pictures of him doing drugs

The FBI raided Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence on Monday. Mac Isaac claims evidence that the agency has extreme bias against the former president is that they still haven't raided or arrested Hunter Biden despite revelations on the laptop. Pictured: Secret Service agents stand outside Trump's Florida estate as the FBI conducted their raid

The above timeline highlights just some of former president Donald Trump's battles with the National Archives since leaving office, including an unrelated court fight with the January 6 committee

Mac Isaac is telling the whole story of getting caught up in Hunter laptop scandal in his upcoming book American Injustice: My Battle to Expose the Truth, which will hit shelves on November 22, 2022

'I really only focused in on the Ukraine because back in the summer of 2019 that's what was in the news,' Mac Isaac said. 'It was topical and that's what led me to believe I was sitting on criminal evidence.'

He said that he also has realized in the last two years the bias of the FBI, claiming that they are quick to act against Trump but slow when it comes to the Bidens.

The FBI raided former President Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence on Monday in relation to an investigation based on reports he had taken official documents from the White House to Florida when leaving office last year.

Mac Isaac said the same sort of action should have happened to the likes of Hunter Biden or former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

He described discovering nefarious correspondence regarding Ukraine on Hunter's laptop, including an email from April 12, 2014 where he claimed Hunter detailed the entire Burisma deal draft.

The timelines of the emails he witnessed and what was happening in the news at the time is what sparked him to notice some foul play on the part of Hunter and potentially his father when he was vice president, Mac Isaac noted.

Mac Isaac owned an Apple repair store, The Mac Shop (pictured), in Wilmington, Delaware. He was forced to close the store after his name was leaked as the repairman who turned over Hunter's laptop to the FBI

Hunter came into the store on April 12, 2019 and brought a few damaged devices to get Mac Isaac to recover the contents. He never picked up the devices

Hunter was working with business partner Devon Archer, once so close to the Bidens he was considered a member of the family, to 'sell' Joe to Burisma Holdings Limited to help them gain power in Ukraine.

'So they were selling his father, and then Devon Archer has a meeting, like a couple of days later, with Joe Biden at the White House. And then a couple days after that Joe goes to Ukraine, does his little tour. And then a week later Hunter is appointed to the [Burisma] board,' Mac Isaac detailed.

'And, it's like, when you lay it all out in a timeline,' he continued, 'it should be crystal clear to everyone what really happened in Ukraine.'

Mac Isaac said that the laptop proves that the entire first impeachment of Trump was fraudulent.

'I'd like people to realize that that impeachment was a lie,' he said.

The former laptop repair shop owner said when he first saw the images on Hunter's laptop he was glad that his father was no longer involved in politics, claiming it would sabotage his career and embarrass him.

But that relief didn't last long when Joe launched his 2020 presidential campaign shortly after Hunter brought his laptop in for repair.

Mac Isaac said the goal of his book isn't to reveal more information about Hunter Biden, but to 'tell the story to clear my name.'

'I never really wanted to share the contents. I wanted to tell the story so that I could clear my name and people can see the situation through my eyes and how I made the decisions I made  and how that culminated to me giving it to Rudy Giuliani,' he said.

There were nine months between Mac Isaac attempting to turn over the laptop to the FBI and giving a copy to Giuliani, who was Trump's attorney at the time he obtained the hard drive.

Mac Isaac told DailyMail.com that his life was turned upside down by Hunter coming into his shop in 2019.

He can no longer run his business in Delaware and said he is often targeted by leftist groups who think he is making up the whole ordeal.

'I kind of stopped trying to defend my actions,' Mac Isaac said. 'I wrote the book. They can read the book. It's everything that I've told the FBI. It's the truth.'

'All I can do is convey the truth, and share it, and know that I've done that,' he added.

'It's not up to me to convince people to believe it or not. It's a free country.'
Anyone with information is urged to call Placer County Sheriff's Office on 530-886-5375

Police say they have received more than 100 tips so far and have assigned 77 personnel to the case who are working alongside more than 150 volunteers

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Kiely Rodni, 16, was last seen at a party at the Prosser Family Camp Ground in Truckee, California, in the early hours of Saturday morning

Police searching for missing California teen Kiely Rodni have said they have no evidence to suggest she was abducted and are focusing on a search and rescue investigation instead.

More than 100 cops were combing the area near the campground where she was last seen, with police boats and divers scouring the 73ft deep Prosser Creek Reservoir which sits directly below.

Police have blocked access roads leading to the reservoir and are believed to be working on the theory that Kiely, 16, accidentally drove her silver Honda SUV into the water.

Exclusive DailyMail.com photos show cops have set up a forensic tent at the bottom of a boat ramp that is accessed from the Prosser Family Camp Ground.

A small submarine with a camera attached was also seen being pulled from the water.

Detective Sergeant Scott Alford, who is leading the operation, said today that no stone would be left unturned and pleaded with teens who attended the party where Kiely was last seen to come forward.

He said: This is a search and rescue operation focused on the area where Kiely was last seen and the search has expanded from there.

Right now, we have no evidence that supports an abduction but we are not ruling it out.

This is being investigated as a missing persons case and a search and rescue, not as an abduction.

Police boats and helicopters spent Tuesday searching the reservoir  a 760-acre lake that lies directly beneath the camp ground where Kiely was last seen.

A dive team from the Nevada County Sheriff's Department was also on site early Tuesday morning and was seen setting up in a spot next to the reservoir, southwest of the camping area and accessible by a dirt trail.

Blonde Kiely was last seen at a party at the Prosser Family Camp Ground in Truckee, California, in the early hours of Saturday morning at a party for high school students.

Police said the party was attended by more than 100 teenagers  some from as far away as the Bay area of San Francisco and Reno, Nevada.

Sheriff's deputies set up a forensics tent on a ramp into Prosser Creek Reservoir and launched mini-submarines fitted with cameras in a bid to find Kiely's SUV

Police dive teams have now joined the search for Kiely and exclusive DailyMail.com photos show boats searching the Prosser Creek Reservoir, which is a 760-acre stretch of water

A dive team from the Nevada County Sheriff's Department was on site early Tuesday morning and was seen setting up in a spot next to the reservoir, southwest of the camping area and accessible by a dirt trail

Police say they have received more than 100 tips so far and have assigned 77 personnel to the case who are working alongside more than 150 volunteers

The Placer County Sheriff's Office said in a statement: 'We are trying to obtain as much information as possible  our focus is getting Kiely home safely'

A search and rescue helicopter is seen Tuesday circling the camp site where Kiely was last seen

An RV with flyers and information about Kiely is seen at the search and rescue site. The tip line is 530-581-6320. A website has also been set up: findkiely.com

The search and rescue party for Kiely is pictured near the area where she went missing in Truckee, California. Kiely's mother said that authorities had deemed this an abduction case although they are now believed to be working on the theory she may have accidentally driven into the lake

Friends have said that Kiely had been drinking and they were worried about her attempting to drive home.

Kiely's friends and family have issued a plea for teenagers with any information to come forward but family friend Abby, who asked not to give her last name, told DailyMail.com that it is proving difficult.

She said: 'They don't want to come forward  I think because of underage drinking and things like that.

'We're trying to tell them that we don't care about alcohol  we're just looking for any information that will help us find Kiely.'

The Placer County Sheriff's Office has made a similar appeal and said in a statement: 'We are trying to obtain as much information as possible  our focus is getting Kiely home safely.

'We urge anyone who may have any information about Kiely to please contact our tip line. You can remain anonymous.'

Police say they have received more than 100 tips so far and have assigned 77 personnel to the case who are working alongside more than 150 volunteers.

Cops have also been using license plate technology in the search and have been checking cars as far away as Reno, Nevada, but are yet to find any sign of Kiely's vehicle.

But while authorities explore all avenues the epicenter of the search is now at the lake

Kiely was last seen at 12.30am on Saturday at the Prosser Family Camp Ground, 10 minutes north of Truckee and a short drive from the hotel her family owns.

The teenager sent her mother Lindsey, 42, a text message saying she planned to leave in 45 minutes at approximately 11.30pm.

She had been due to meet friends at a local Starbucks at 9am ahead of a camping trip but failed to show up  prompting her mother to sound the alarm.

Kiely was at a party at the Prosser Family Campground, along with 100 other kids. The police say there were teens from multiple states there. She was driving her Honda but neither she nor the vehicle have been located

Cops have been using license plate technology in the search and have been checking cars as far away as Reno, Nevada, but are yet to find any sign of Kiely's silver Honda SUV

Kiely was last seen at 12.30am on Saturday morning about 10 minutes north of Truckee and a short drive from her family's hotel

Dirt bikes, along with Land Rovers, helicopters and boats are all being used in the search of the 16-year-old

Kiely had been due to meet friends at a local Starbucks at 9am ahead of a camping trip but failed to show up  prompting her mother to sound the alarm

Speaking to DailyMail.com on Monday, Lindsey said she believed her daughter has been abducted and begged the alleged kidnapper to bring her home.

She said: 'I am terrified. My mind reels and my sleep is plagued with nightmares... thoughts that I just can't get out of my head.'

'I last saw her on Friday morning, she was going to meet us to go to a vintage car show but then she changed her mind and wanted to go to this party instead.

'I extended her curfew. I had done it before and felt safe. She texted me at 11.30pm to say she would be leaving at 12.15am to come home.

'She said ''I love you, mom.'' That was the last I heard from her'.

Lindsey said she is sure that her daughter would not have run away. 'My daughter is not the runaway type  not to stigmatize kids who are  but my daughter is not. She had the resources to run away and would have done if she wanted to.'

Friends said Kiely had appeared very drunk at the party and said they believe she has been taken because her Honda CRV SUV still hasn't been found

Friends said Kiely had appeared very drunk at the party and said they believe she has been taken because her SUV still hasn't been found.

Family friend Anna Larson said: 'She wasn't in a state where she could have driven very far. She was inebriated.

'We did a thorough search of the woods where the party was and now we're going to smaller towns. We believe she was taken.

'Nobody we know left with her, nobody else is missing from the party. We don't know if it was someone who was attending the party or a predator.

'We also don't know if there's someone she planned to go and meet who we don't know about yet. It is a nightmare.'
A grand jury in Mississippi has declined to indict the white woman whose accusation set off the lynching of black teenager Emmett Till nearly 70 years ago, despite revelations about an unserved arrest warrant and a newly revealed memoir by the woman, a prosecutor said Tuesday.

A Leflore County grand jury considered evidence and testimony regarding Carolyn Bryant Donham's involvement in the kidnapping and death of Till, Leflore County District Attorney Dewayne Richardson said in a news release.

After hearing seven hours of testimony, they determined that there was not sufficient eveidence to indict Donham. Charges of both kidnaping and manslaughter were considered.

Last week, DailyMail.com exclusively revealed that Donham, 88, is living in a small apartment community in Kentucky. She suffers from cancer, is legally blind and is receiving end of life hospice care - and photos showed her with oxygen tubes looped over her ears.

Asked if she or her son, Thomas Bryant, would speak about Till and the events that destroyed and re-shaped the worlds of so many, Bryant, shook his head while Donham stood by silently.

Carolyn Bryant Donham, the white woman responsible for the lynching of 14-year-old black boy Emmett Till in 1955, was pictured by DailyMail.com for the first time in almost two decades after she was spotted at her Kentucky home last week. A grand jury on Tuesday declined to indict her on charges of kidnapping and manslaughter

Last week, DailyMail.com exclusively revealed that Donham, 88, is living in a small apartment community in Kentucky

DailyMail.com can reveal Donham now suffers from cancer, is legally blind, and is receiving end of life hospice care in her apartment

Donham (left) was 21 and then known as Carolyn Bryant, when she accused 14-year-old Emmett Till (right) of whistling at her and making verbal and physical advances during an encounter at her family store in Money, Mississippi on August 24, 1955. Her allegations prompted her then-husband and brother-in-law to abduct and kill Till in one of the most barbaric lynchings in US history

The news that the grand jury had declined to charge Donham makes it increasingly unlikely that she will ever be prosecuted for her role in the events that led to Tills death.

A group searching the basement of the Leflore County Courthouse in June discovered the unserved arrest warrant charging Donham, then-husband Roy Bryant and brother-in-law J.W. Milam in Till's abduction in 1955.

The warrant was based on the Sheriff's belief that Donham played a part in the kidnapping of Till, that she drove around the town of Money, Mississippi seeking him out and ultimately identified the terrified teen when he was brought to her on the night of Sunday August 28 that year, dragged from his bed, to be tortured and murdered by Bryant and Milam.

A police note on the back of the warrant says that she wasn't arrested because she was not in the county.

Yet a local sheriff told reporters at the time that he didn't want to 'bother' her since she had two little boys to care for.

While the men were arrested and acquitted on murder charges in Till's subsequent slaying, Donham, 21 at the time and 87 now, was never taken into custody.

Till's battered, disfigured body was found days after he was abducted, in a river, where it was weighted down with a heavy metal fan.

Donham's former husband, Bryant, who died in 1994, was ultimately acquitted of murder. Donham, however, managed to evade charges or any consequences in a case that shocked the world for its brutality.

The decision by Till's mother, Mamie Till Mobley, to open Till's casket for his funeral in Chicago demonstrated the horror of what had happened and added fuel to the civil rights movement.

Dressed in blue top and khaki slacks, Donham waited for a visit from her hospice nurse, greeting her at the door and waving her off with her little dog at her feet and the promise of seeing her 'next week' when DailyMail.com photographed her

Early last month, an unserved arrest warrant for Donham - pictured on the lawn of her husband's defense attorney's office in 1955 - was found in the basement of a Mississippi courthouse, prompting Till's family and activists to mobilize and call for justice

Donham, pictured with her two sons, Roy Jr and Thomas, and then-husband Roy Bryant in September 1955, had claimed Till, a whistled at her. In return, Bryant and his brother abducted him from his great-uncle's home four days later and killed him

Just four weeks ago, crowds of angry protesters descended on three addresses in Raleigh, North Carolina where they mistakenly believed Donham was living.

Chanting black power slogans, they gathered outside two residential addresses and even stormed a nursing facility, unaware that she left the town and the state some months earlier.

Their actions were spurred on by the discovery of an unserved warrant for Donham's arrest. It was found by a five-person search team led by Till's cousin Deborah Watts and her daughter Terri along with members from the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation.

They discovered the document inside a file folder that had been stored in a box in the basement of LeFlore County Circuit Court in Greenwood, Mississippi. Donham was identified only as 'Mrs. Roy Bryant.'

Watts said that when they found the warrant, she and her daughter, 'cried and hugged each other.'

'Justice,' she said, 'Has to be done.'

Emmett Till with his mother, Mamie Bradley in 1950. Till, who was from Chicago, was visiting relatives in Mississippi during the summer of 1955 when he was brutally murdered

Friends restrain grief-stricken Mrs. Mamie Bradley (left) as her son's body is lowered into the grave after a four-day, open casket funeral on September 5, 1955

A plaque marks the gravesite of Emmett Till at Burr Oak Cemetery in Aslip, Illinois. His murder in Money, Mississippi, helped spark the US civil rights movement

When DailyMail.com visited Donham's home last week, a chaplain was observed carrying a bible as he entered Donham's home.

If forgiveness is on her mind, it is never something Donham has publicly sought when it comes to her part in the Till's horrific death.

In fact, in her most recent version of the events leading up to Till's death  and there have been many  Donham attempted to absolve herself of any guilt.

Instead, the memoir dictated to her former daughter-in-law and recently leaked, Donham claims that she lied in a bid to save Till and casts herself as a victim not perpetrator of the scene.

In the leaked 99-page document, 'I Am More Than A Wolf Whistle,' obtained by the Associated Press she wrote: 'I did not wish Emmett any harm and could not stop harm from coming to him, since I didn't know what was planned for him.'

She claimed: 'I have always prayed that God would bless Emmett's family. I am truly sorry for the pain his family was caused.

'I tried to protect him by telling Roy that, 'He's not the one. That's not him. Please take him home.'

But bizarrely, she claimed that Till himself told the violent racists who had abducted him that he had indeed catcalled her, stepping up to take blame in a way that defied all common sense.

As it was, according to Donham's early accounts, Till's only 'offense' was to wolf whistle at a white woman when he entered the grocery store that she ran with her husband who was out of town that day.

Just four weeks ago, crowds of angry protesters descended on three addresses in Raleigh, North Carolina in which they mistakenly believed Donham to be living, following the discovery of an unserved warrant for Donham's arrest

Activists taped 'eviction notices' to the addresses listed under Donham's public records

Last week MGM studios debuted the first trailer for their biopic 'Till' which will center on the character of Mamie who will be played by Danielle Deadwyler of 'The Harder They Fall,' fame. Whoopi Goldberg will also star.

In 2004, just one year after Till's mother's death, the Justice Department opened a cold case investigation into the killing to see if any more charges could be brought.

After three years of investigation, in 2007, then District Attorney Joyce Chiles of Greenwood empaneled a grand jury to hear the case against Donham and what amounted to extensive evidence, including thousands of pages of documents, some uncovered by filmmaker Keith Beauchamp.

The grand jury declined to bring any indictments.

Keith Beauchamp claimed to have found other suspects who were still alive and eyewitnesses who stated that Donham was in the truck when Till was abducted.

Speaking recently on the discovery of the Donham's unserved arrest warrant, Beauchamp said that as far as he was concerned Donham is a woman, 'who has been evading justice for over 66 years now.'

The only reason she was never served with that warrant, Beauchamp said, 'was because of the protection of white womanhood.'

In 2017 the book, 'The Blood of Emmett Till,' written by historian Timothy B Tyson, and including quotes from Donham whom Tyson interviewed for the work, muddied the waters still further, casting doubt on Donham's courtroom testimony.

In her interview with Tyson, the historian claimed, she recanted much of the account she had given under oath, sparking Till family hopes that a day of reckoning might finally have come for Donham.

The FBI investigated but Tyson could provide no recordings, transcript or even notes to back up this incendiary claim.

Unable to stand up the allegation in the face of the woman's denials, investigators ultimately closed the case in 2021 leaving the surviving members of the Till family, 'heartbroken' but 'not surprised.'
Ellen DeGeneres was spotted out with a friend for the first time since her ex Anne Heche nearly lost her life after crashing into a Los Angels home going 90 mph.

The popular talk show host was out with a friend at the True Lune restaurant, in Santa Barbara, California, on Monday, pictured in a navy blue wardrobe.

DeGeneres, 64, who dated Heche in the 90s, wore a collared polo shirt, pinstripe shorts and grey sneakers while coming out the restaurant.

Her companion, an older man, wore a white T-shirt, jean shorts and flipflops.

When asked about Heche, 53, who is currently hospitalized and suspected of being drunk when she drove her Mini Cooper into a woman's home last Friday, DeGeneres said she's unaware of her condition as the two no longer talk.

'We are not in touch with each other, so I would not know', she said, but still wished for her ex's speedy recovery. 'I don't want anyone to be hurt.'

Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres was seen out in Santa Barbara, California, on Monday for the first time since ex Anne Heche's near-fatal crash in Los Angeles

Police suspect Heche had been drunk when she slammed her Mini Cooper into a woman's home going 90 mph. A photo from earlier on Friday shows Heche moments before the second accident at the wheel with a bottle of vodka with a red cap plonked in the cup holder

Ellen was out with a male friend, enjoying lunch at the True Lune restaurant

Despite their famous relationship in the 90s when she first came out (right), Ellen said she no longer talks with Heche but wishes her a speedy recovery

Ellen wore a navy blue collared polo shirt, pinstripe shorts and grey sneakers while coming out the restaurant in Santa Barbara on Monday

when asked about Heche's condition, DeGeneres said: 'We are not in touch with each other, so I would not know'

The home of Lynne Mishele was destroyed by a blaze after Heche ran her Mini Cooper into the building at speeds nearing 90 miles per hour, according to police. The resulting blaze took 59 firefighters more than an hour to extinguish.

As a result of the fire, Heche - who is best known for her relationship with DeGeneres and her acting roles in the 1990s - was taken to a local hospital and intubated. She remains in the ICU.

Heche is now said to be 'critical condition' following the fiery crash, a rep for the actor said in a statement to Deadline.

'At this time, Anne is in extreme critical condition. She has a significant pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation and burns that require surgical intervention,' a rep for the actor said in a statement.

'She is in a coma and has not regained consciousness since shortly after the accident,' it added.

Mishele managed to escape, shaken but unhurt.

A GoFundMe page set up for her says that Mishele's home was 'immediately red-tagged' after crews extinguished the fire - meaning the home was listed as unsafe to return to until repairs can be made.

Mishel said she initially thought that something had fallen from the sky and exploded into her house, neighbor David Manpearl told DailyMail.com.

Shes lucky to be alive. She was shaking when she told me she had just been in the living room right where the car had crashed,' he said.

Just minutes before Heche careered into the nearly 70-year-old home, the Donnie Brasco star was pictured after crashing into a different garage further up the same street.

Shortly before destroying Mishele's house, Heche's blue Mini Clubman was shown on a doorbell camera speeding past a home along South Walgrove Avenue in the Mar Vista neighborhood.

A picture taken before her first crash also showed Heche with what appeared to be a bottle of vodka in the cup holder of her Mini ahead of the horrific second smash.

Authorities had to use a crane to pull Heche out from the flaming vehicle, a neighbor who witnessed the crash told NBC 4.

On Friday, Heche crashed her car into the downtown Los Angeles home of Lynne Mishele

Mishele, seen in the maroon, standing across the street from her home looking dazed and confused following Friday morning's crash by Anne Heche into her house

In a tweet, the LAFD said that it took 59 firefighters about 65 minutes to put out the blaze. The home is now 'uninhabitable'

According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, the crash caused 'structural compromise and erupting in heavy fire' following the crash

In a report from the scene prior to Heche's extraction around 11:30 am, Fox 11's Stu Mandel said: 'If there's somebody alive in there this is going to be a miracle'

Aerial footage later showed her bursting through the straps in a white bag before writhing in pain on a stretcher as she was bundled into an ambulance and rushed to a local ICU.

The Los Angeles Fire Department said it took 59 firefighters 65 minutes to put out the 'stubborn flames' and 'rescue one female adult found within the vehicle.'

Jaw-dropping pictures from the scene showed the burnt out hull of the car as it was recovered from the hedge before being towed away by the authorities.

'We really had a multifaceted incident here,' LAFD Capt. Erik Scott said. 'We had a significant traffic collision, we had entrapment of a woman inside that, we had car that erupted into fire, and then we had a home that had significant fire that is red tagged. It's at this point destroyed.'

Ex-boyfriend Thomas Jane, 53, paid an emotional tribute to her, saying despite the fact they are no longer together he offers her his 'thoughts and prayers' and credited her 'one of the true talents of her generation'.

Heche is a mother to two sons - Homer, with cameraman ex-husband Coleman Luffoon, as well as Atlas, who she had with former boyfriend James Tupper.

Actress Anne Heche has been intubated in a critical condition after crashing her Mini into a garage before speeding off and smashing it into an apartment block where it exploded

The 53-year-old suffered horrific burns during the collision and was recorded being dragged out of the mangled wreck by firefighters after it burst into flames in LA around 11am

There was plenty of emergency services in attendance in the aftermath of the crash as 59 firefighters arrived at the scene to combat the flames

Fire crews were on scene as they attempted to put out the flames which took about an hour

An interior shot shows the Mini Clubman's airbag had blown out along with most of the decor being burnt through following the crash

Jane, who dated in 2019 and 2020 and worked together on the HBO series Hung, told DailyMail.com: 'While Anne and I are no longer an item, todays tragic news was devastating to me and to all who love her.

'My heart goes out to Anne and her two sons... My thoughts and prayers are with Anne, one of the true talents of her generation. Thank God no one else was hurt.'

The couple dated as recently as 2020 and had even bought a house together. They had known each other for more than a decade and had co-starred as an acrimoniously divorced couple in Hung from 2009 to 2011.

Heche, a native of Aurora, Ohio, most recently starred in the action pic 13 Minutes,'in which she starred alongside Thora Birch, Amy Smart and Will Peltz.

She went through a very public divorce in January 2018 from her ex-husband James Tupper. The couple were together for 10 years and share a son, Atlas, 13.

She was well known for her romance with DeGeneres in the 1990s. She brought the talk show host to the premiere of her movie Volcano in 1997. She claimed the act saw her being 'blacklisted' from Hollywood.

'I didn't do a studio picture for 10 years,' she told Page Six. 'I was fired from a $10 million picture deal and did not see the light of day in a studio picture.'

Big Little Lies actor James Tupper, who dated Heshe for 10 years and shares a 13-year-old son with, posted about the accident on Instagram with a picture of her and their son, saying the family was hoping for a speedy recovery

Heche is pictured with Tupper, left, in 2012. The couple had had a son together named Atlas, pictured in stripes. Heche also had a son with called Homer with cameraman ex-husband Coleman Laffoon. Homer is pictured front row in blue.

Heche noted how her relationship with DeGeneres 'wasn't a long-term love affair'

Kiss kiss: Heche and ex-boyfriend Thomas Jane were all smiles as they were photographed at the Hollywood China Night Oscar viewing party in February 2020

Following her and Ellen's breakup, she was found incoherent and babbling in the California desert. She stumbled into a stranger's home before being carted off to a hospital  hours after breaking up with the comedian.

'I was told to go to a place where I would meet a spaceship. I was told in order to get on the spaceship that I would have to take a hit of ecstasy,' Heche explained.

'Fresno was the culmination of a journey and a world that I thought I needed to escape to in order to find love.'

Shortly after the couple dated, the director tied the knot to Coley Laffoon. They also share 20-year-old son Homer Laffoon.

Heche's divorce from the cameraman was finalized in 2009, two years after they initially ended their romance. The blonde later started dating Men In Trees co-star James Tupper in 2007, before they split in 2018.

Heche shares son Atlas with her ex James Tupper.
Former Vice President Mike Pence said Tuesday that he was concerned about the FBI's raid of former President Donald Trump's home Mar-a-Lago - despite their 20-month estrangement.

'I share the deep concern of millions of Americans over the unprecedented search of the personal residence of President Trump,' Pence tweeted Tuesday afternoon. 'No former President of the United States has ever been subject to a raid of their personal residence in American history.'

On Monday, Trump confirmed that FBI agents had raided Mar-a-Lago, after media reports said agents were spotted leaving the ex-president's Florida home and private club.

Trump raged against the move, saying it represented 'dark times for our Nation,' pushing that the Biden administration was going after him as a political target.

'After years where FBI agents were found to be acting on political motivation during our administration, the appearance of continued partisanship by the Justice Department must be addressed,' Pence also said.

'Yesterday's action undermines public confidence in our system of justice and Attorney General Garland must give a full accounting to the American people as to why this action was taken and he must do so immediately,' the former vice president added.

Former Vice President Mike Pence (left) said Tuesday that he was concerned about the FBI's raid of former President Donald Trump's (right) home Mar-a-Lago - despite their 20-month estrangement

The former vice president sent out a series of three tweets expressing that he was deeply concerned by the FBI raid at Mar-a-Lago Monday. 'No former President of the United States has ever been subject to a raid in their personal residence in American history,' he wrote

Pence also referred to FBI agents 'found to be acting on political motivation.' During the Trump years, 'FBI lovers' Peter Strzok and Lisa Page were turned into political punching bags for having sent anti-Trump text messages while working on the Mueller probe

Pence also called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to speak. So far Attorney General Merrick Garland hasn't spoken publicly about the raid and the White House has referred questions to the Department of Justice

So far Attorney General Merrick Garland hasn't spoken publicly about the raid.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has referred questions about the FBI's actions to the Justice Department, which hasn't commented.

A number of media outlets reported that the raid stemmed from an investigation into Trump removing classified documents from the White House and not the DOJ's current probe into January 6, which is also looking into Trump's actions.

Both Democrats and Republicans have blasted the FBI whenever the agency's investigations have gotten close to political figures in their respective parties.

Democrats were enraged by the actions of former FBI Director James Comey, who spoke about the agency's decision not to charge Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton with mishandling classified information by using a private email server, though saying publicly she was 'extremely careless.'

Comey called a press conference in July 2016 to make the comments - just four months before the presidential election.

'This wasn't your ordinary bureaucrat who just mishandles one document. This was something more than that. But not something that anybody would prosecute,' Comey explained in a 2018 interview about his decision to characterize Clinton's behavior that way.

Comey also informed members of Congress that he had reopened the Clinton email investigation about two weeks before the 2016 election because more emails had been found on a laptop the FBI confiscated from Anthony Weiner, who was then married to top Clinton aide Huma Abedin.

Despite Comey telling lawmakers that nothing new was found prior to election day - the email investigation resurfacing during the final stretch likely helped Trump narrowly win the 2016 election.

Then two months into Trump's tenure, Comey confirmed that the FBI was investigating whether members of Trump's 2016 campaign team had colluded with Russia, which had meddled in the election.

Democrats were again aghast that Comey kept the Trump-Russia probe under wraps in the run-up to the 2016 election, while speaking publicly about the FBI's Clinton dealings.

Comey later said he believed Clinton would win the election, which played a role in why he treated the probes differently.

A 2018 DOJ inspector general's report said that Comey had twice violated the bureau's policy of discretion: with the July 2016 press conference on Clinton and again when he informed Congress the Clinton email investigation had been reopened.

Pence's complaints of partisanship were likely referring to the 'FBI lovers' scandal, involving anti-Trump text messages sent between Peter Strzok and attorney Lisa Page, who were both working on special counsel Robert Mueller's probe and having an affair.

Mueller took over the Russia investigation after Trump fired Comey.

Strzok was removed from the probe when critical text messages about Trump and his supporters were discovered.

While texts critical of Trump only amounted to a small fraction of the 7,000 uncovered, Trump repeatedly used Strzok and Page as punching bags when telling supporters the 'deep state' was coming after him.

In a campaign-style video Trump released Tuesday, he continued to push that any investigation to him was tainted by politics.

'We are a nation that has weaponized its law enforcement against the opposing political party, like never before,' the ex-president said.

Later Tuesday on Truth Social, Trump called it a 'horrible thing that took place yesterday at Mar-a-Lago.'

'We are no better than a third world country, a banana republic,' he said. 'It is a continuation of Russia, Russia, Russia, Impeachment Hoax #1, Impeachment Hoax # 2, the no collusion Mueller Report, and more.'

'To make matters worse it is all, in my opinion, a coordinated attack with Radical Left Democrat state & local D.A.'s & A.G.'s,' Trump also said.

Trump also faces legal problems in Georgia as Fulton County District Attorney Fani T. Willis investigates a scheme to overturn the state's 2020 presidential election results.

And in New York, where Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney, is looking into whether Trump's companies misrepresented the value of properties for loan and tax purposes.

Additionally in New York, Letitia James, the New York state attorney general, is conducting a civil investigation into whether Trump's company inflated real estate values.

Trump and Pence had a falling out after Pence was unwilling to overturn the results of the 2020 election while chairing a joint session of Congress on January 6, 2021.

That session was interrupted by the Capitol attack, in which some Trump supporters called on Pence to be hanged.

Trump is also tied up in investigations into the attack by both the House select committee on January 6 and the Department of Justice.
The company which farmed out an ICU nurse with her own 'profound' mental health problems is refusing to comment on how she was vetted for the job, as she is charged with murdering six people in a horror car crash last week.

Nicole Linton, 37, is in custody in California on six murder charges for killing a pregnant woman, her boyfriend, the woman's one-year-old son, a man and two other women on August 4.

Linton inexplicably drove her Mercedes straight into traffic, slicing one of the victims' cars in half and sending the baby in his car-seat flying into the air, at terrifying speed.

Her motive remains unclear but her attorney told a judge yesterday she has a 'profound history' of mental health problems which should have stopped her from getting behind the wheel of a car - let alone inside an ICU facility to treat critically ill patients.

Linton was working at Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Medical Center, but she'd been sent there by AMN Healthcare, a travel nursing company that farms out skilled contractors to where they are most needed.

It became a heavily relied-upon model during the COVID-19 pandemic, when healthcare professionals in the hardest-hit cities were in short supply.

Nicole Linton, 37, is in custody in California on six murder charges for killing a pregnant woman, her boyfriend, the woman's one-year-old son, a man and two other women on August 4

Linton sped through a red light at 90mph, plowing into cars at a busy intersection on August 4th. Six people and one unborn baby were killed

The nurse has held six roles in five different states in the last two years despite having 'profound' mental health problems

Since 2020, she has worked with two of the temporary nursing companies AMN and RN Network.

Amid growing concern over why she was even allowed to hold a position in the hospital with such a grave mental condition as her attorney described, AMN Healthcare refused to comment on what kind of background checks were performed when she was first given a job with them.

'At this time, we are not able to comment on an active criminal investigation. Any further questions should be forwarded to law enforcement authorities,' a spokesman said, refusing to be drawn on how she was vetted for her role with the travel nursing company.

RN Network did not immediately respond to inquiries.

Kaiser Permanente, the facility where she was working, put the onus on AMN.

'Everyone at Kaiser Permanente is deeply saddened by last Thursdays horrific crash. Its impossible to imagine the pain those involved are experiencing. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy.

DailyMail.com uncovered crash records for two of the 13 incidents Linton is believed to have been involved in before last week's tragedy

In both crashes, she was driving in the vehicle marked car # 3, and another driver rear-ended her

The crash records obtained by DailyMail.com were from 2013 and 2016. In neither case was Linton deemed to be at fault

The incident report from one of the crashes details how Linton (who was in vehicle 3) failed to move at a green light and was rear-ended

'Ms. Nicole Lorraine Linton is not employed by Kaiser Permanente, rather is a nurse employed by AMN Healthcare and contracted out to work at Kaiser Permanente on a temporary basis.

'She was not traveling for Kaiser Permanente at the time of the accident,' a spokesman told DailyMail.com on Tuesday.

Before nursing, Linton worked as a sales manager for General Motors.

Then in 2010, she began studying to obtain her nurse's license. There are no open complaints against her or violations listed by California's Department of Consumer Affairs, and her California nursing license is valid.

In 2020, she worked in both North Carolina and Maryland. Since October 2020, she has worked between Atlanta and Los Angeles.

Linton appeared to be living a happy and successful life as a traveling nurse until last week's crash. Her motive remains unclear

Linton's home in Houston, Texas, where she is understood to have lived alone

Nicole Lorraine Linton, 37, is in custody on six murder charges as a result of Thursday's crash

In court, prosecutors also said that Linton had been involved in 13 vehicle accidents in Texas and California.

Full details of those crashes have not yet become public.

DailyMail.com found records for two crashes in Texas. One was in 2013 and the second was in 2016.

In both cases, another driver rear-ended her car and she was not deemed to be at fault.

The 2013 crash report describes how Linton failed to move at the lights once they turned green.

One person was taken to the hospital in that accident.

Victim: Asherey Ryan, 23, died in the fiery crash with her one-year-old child and her unborn child. Tributes have poured in for the mother, who was expecting another child this year

Victim: The father of the unborn child Reynold Lester (right) also passed away in the deadly crash

Victim: One-year-old baby boy Alonzo Quintero (pictured) was also killed in the horrific collision between South La Brea Avenue and Slauson Avenue on Thursday afternoon

Linton's friends and family will not comment on her mental health or the 'problems' her attorney said she was facing.

On social media, she appeared to be happy working as a traveling nurse.

She lived in a pleasant part of Houston, Texas, and some of her Facebook photos show her wearing expensive designer shoes.

The families of her victims are incredulous.

Luis Quintero, the father of one-year-old Alonzo Quintero who died in the accident, fumed on Facebook that the nurse's $9million bail was too low.

'You dont even deserve a bail,' he said.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has not given any additional details on the case.
Don Lemon denies claims that CNN boss Chris Licht wants the news network to drop its 'opinion-mongering' reporting which could see him get the ax in favor of 'truthful news,' adding that he would welcome a return to more conservative punditry.

Lemon made the comments Friday while appearing as a guest on Comedy Central's 'Hell Of A Week,' hosted by Charlamagne tha God. The pair discussed the current political climate in America, as well as the purpose of independent journalism in a industry where more bias is present now than ever.

Towards the end of their exchange, Charlamagne evokes Licht's plan to steer CNN away from 'opinion-based partisan news to a political center.'

He then asks Lemon, 56, and who has been a member of CNN since 2006: 'Will you still be able to call it like it is?'

'Let me just say I don't think that's exactly what Chris is saying,' Lemon replied.

'I think that's a narrative that's been placed in the media. I think what Chris wants to do is to be able to have Republicans and Democrats and whatever your political stance is on CNN so that you can be accountable and that you can answer for it,' he added.

Don Lemon appeared on Charlamagne tha God's 'Hell Of A Week' show on Comedy Central to talk about both his and CNN's future

Chris Licht took over at CNN in May and is seeking changes throughout the news network to help viewers regain trust in the media, including steering away from 'opinion-mongering' to straight news

Last week, rumors surfaced of CNN considering a revamp of its anchor lineup, with less reliance on opinionated anchors like Lemon - a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump - and Brianna Keilar, in favor of White House Chief Correspondent Kaitlan Collins, after profits were projected to fall below $1 billion, a first since 2016.

An insider source also told Radar that Licht's vision and new management style is worrisome to the network's star personalities, like Anderson Cooper and Lemon, as they were 'used to being treated like stars, not staff.'

The pair were well-liked by former CNN boss Jeff Zucker, who resigned in February over his relationship with the channel's chief marketing officer, Allison Gollust, often socializing with one another and chatting about company gossip.

'Chris' first priority will be fixing CNN's morning and primetime programming,' the insider source told Radar. 'That is where the big advertiser money is. Anderson Cooper, Don Lemon, and the morning hosts should be concerned.'

Licht is also eyeing CNN correspondent Jamie Gangel and is rumored to wanting to bring in late-night TV talk show host Stephen Colbert, with whom he worked during his time at CBS News, as well as other familiar names including MSNBC 'Morning Joe' co-hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, according to Radar.

CNN is considering recalling Kaitlan Collins, CNN's Chief White House correspondent, back in- house to improve the news network's ratings and reputation in favor of some of the channel's opinionated anchors like Lemon or Anderson Cooper

MSNBC Morning Joe co-hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brezinski are other familiar names that Licht has worked with in the past and is allegedly considering to hire at CNN

TV talk show host Stephen Colbert is being rumored as a possible new addition at CNN, rumors report. Licht and Colbert know each other well as the new CNN boss used to be the executive producer of 'The Late Night Show with Stephen Colbert' at CBS

Suggestions claiming those at CNN who do not follow Licht's vision might face the firing boot do not seem to concern Lemon, as he confirmed to Charlamagne: 'yes, I will be able to do what I do on CNN.'

'If I'm not allowed to do that, then I will go on and do it somewhere else,' Lemon added.

Asked whether he would be ready to walk out on the news network if that moment came sooner rather than later, Lemon said: 'It's not just CNN. If people don't allow journalists to be journalists because, again, we hold the powerful accountable... That is what our jobs are, that's what we're supposed to do.'

'So why would it be any different for us to do it for the people who are in charge of us? To question what they're doing, to hold them accountable, to make sure that they are doing what is right, even if they are the people who hire us,' he added.

Charlamagne then brought up the topic of Chris Cuomo's firing from CNN in November of last year when several reports revealed the new NewsNation host assisted in the defense against sexual harassment allegations that led to the resignation of his brother, ousted former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

'You used to say, 'I love you, brother.' And he'd used to say, 'I love you, brother.' It was something about seeing a black man and a ehite man on television doing that do you still love him?' Charlamagne asked Lemon, referring to his famous primetime handoff with Cuomo.

'Of course, of course. I love everybody,' Lemon answered.

Lemon was also asked about his relationship with former CNN colleague Chris Cuomo's before his firing in November for assisting in the defense against sexual harassment allegations that led to the resignation of his brother, ousted former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo

Charlamagne then alluded to how Cuomo bemoaned the lack of follow-ups he's received from former CNN colleagues who commented on his firing, including Lemon.

'I should have called him for what - I don't know the context. I don't know what he said,' Lemon responded.

'I guess after everything that happened to him,' Charlamagne cleared up.

'I had spoken to Chris for a while. I mean, I don't know what he said, I haven't heard what he said but I don't know, that's not true,' Lemon concluded.

Talk of ringing changes at CNN comes as the news network is expected to drop right below $1 billion ($956.8 million) in profit this year, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. The massive drop is the first time the news network doesn't meet the benchmark since 2016.

The network's ratings also continue to plummet as the company witnesses their lowest numbers in seven years. Competitor MSNBC has also seen declines since former President Trump took office.

CNN has decreased in viewership by 27 percent since last year as an average of 639,000 tuned in this quarter, according to a report. MSNBC viewership is down by 23 percent. Meanwhile, Fox News viewership is up by 1 percent.

When Licht took over in May, he attempted to resolve the declining numbers by shutting down CNN+, a new platform offering original programming, that failed after it was being streamed by only 5,000 to 10,000 people. The company is still paying costs associated with the platform.

The company also cut back on various budget sectors including travel expenses. It also spent millions on the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. To help solve the networks economic dilemma, Licht brought in Chris Marlin to help, an executive at a Florida real estate with a law background.

Marlin, who has no experience in television networking, was hired as head of strategy and business operations in May. He has attempted to invest in advertising gigs with big companies, such as Microsoft. He has also tossed around ideas about expanding CNN into China.

Licht's goal is to 'go a different way' with the network at a time when 'extremes are dominating cable news.'
President Biden insisted that expanding NATO flew in the face of Vladimir Putin's aggression and assured that Sweden and Finland would honor the requirements of treaty membership in a bill signing ceremony after the Senate approved of a resolution to include the two Nordic nations.

'Putin thought he could break us apart weaken our resolve. Instead he's getting exactly what he did not want,' Biden told a crowd Tuesday in the East Room of the White House.

'Putin wanted the Finlandization of NATO but instead got the NATO-ization of Finland.'

Both Finland and Sweden have taken neutral stances to global conflict historically.

Biden signed the legislation flanked by Swedish ambassador Karin Ulrika Olofsdotter and Finnish ambassador Mikko Hautala.

'Putin thought he could break us apart weaken our resolve. Instead he's getting exactly what he did not want,' Biden told a crowd Tuesday in the East Room of the White House

Biden signed the legislation flanked by Swedish ambassador Karin Ulrika Olofsdotter and Finnish ambassador Mikko Hautala

The Senate voted in favor of expanding the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, NATO, 95-1-1 last week. The vote made the U.S. the 23rd nation to ratify the proposed addition. All 30 current NATO members must give their approval.

Only Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., voted against inducting the two nations into the alliance. Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., voted present on the measure.

Biden also insisted that the two nations would meet NATO's requirements for membership. 'They will meet every NATO requirement, we are confident of that.'

A key sticking point is NATO's requirement that member nations spend at least two percent of their GDP on defense.

In tandem with the NATO resolution, the Senate passed an amendment from Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, reiterating the alliance's requirement that members spend two percent on defense.

Former President Trump was an avid critic of NATO, an alliance which ran up against his 'America First' campaign. He called the 30-member bloc 'obsolete' and repeatedly accused other nations of not paying their fair share for the shared costs of defense. At one point, he reportedly wanted to pull the US out of NATO.

Just eight of NATO's 30 nations currently meet the two percent target, according to a March report from NATO Sec. Jens Stoltenberg: United Kingdom, Greece, Croatia, Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.

Biden shakes hands with Karin Olofsdotter, Sweden's ambassador to the US after signing the bill

Hawley, who voted against the resolution, has long called for reducing troop levels in Europe to shift to an Asia-focused strategy. Paul had submitted an amendment that would have reiterated that the NATO charter's Article 5 cannot supersede Congress' ability to declare war but it failed 10-87.

Hawley had argued in an op-ed for The National Interest that the U.S. should focus more on the threat from China than expanding its alliance with European nations.

'Our foreign policy should be about protecting the United States, our freedom, our people, and our way of life, and expanding NATO, I believe, would not do that,' Hawley said on the Senate floor ahead of the vote. 'What I am arguing for is the return to a classic nationalist approach to foreign policy ... grounded in our nation's interests and in the reality of the world as it is, not as we wish it was.'

Arkansas Republican Sen. Tom Cotton took a veiled shot at Hawley on the Senate floor earlier Wednesday.

'How could one disagree?' Cotton asked on the Senate floor of Sweden and Finland's addition. 'After all, the last countries to join NATO -- Montenegro and North Macedonia -- were each approved by the Senate with only two 'no' votes.

'It would be strange indeed for any senator who voted to allow Montenegro or North Macedonia into NATO to turn around and deny membership to Finland and Sweden,' he remarked.

'I would love to hear the defense of such a curious vote,' Cotton said with palpable sarcasm.

Hawley voted for Montenegro and North Macedonia's addition to the alliance in 2019.
Roger Stone has slammed the FBI raid on Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort, accusing prosecutors of 'utilizing optics and drama' of the search instead of going through legal negotiations to obtain missing files.

Federal agents stormed Trump's Palm Beach property Monday in an unannounced search related to White House records linked to the Jan. 6 Capitol riot sought by the National Archives.

Stone, a longtime GOP operative and Trump confidante who himself was also at the center of a high-profile raid during the Mueller investigation in 2019, blasted the operation as a dramatic political stunt against the former president.

'I know firsthand the violation that President Trump must feel tonight,' Stone said in an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com Monday.

Roger Stone told DailyMail.com he knows 'firsthand' the 'violation that President Trump' must be feeling following the FBI raid at his Mar-a-Lago resort on Monday

FBI agents with a search warrant raided Trump's Mar-a-Lago retreat in Palm Beach, Florida on Monday morning

'Just as Mueller's prosecutors could have contacted my lawyers so that I could turn myself in voluntarily, they [instead] had 29 heavily armed FBI agents storm my home at 6am with CNN in tow.

'Now they have elected to utilize the optics and drama of a raid on the home of the former president of United States rather than file a suit to obtain classified documents they allege he has.'

Stone, 69, said it was his understanding that Trump's attorneys had been in 'active negotiations with the National Archives' over the submission of certain documents.

But according to the political consultant, 'the lawyer handling those negotiations, Boris Epsteyn is an incompetent buffoon and his mishandling of those negotiations led to this raid.'

'What documents are they so anxious to ensure they have control of so they never see the light of day? UFOs? The Kennedy Assassination? Debunking of the Russian collusion hoax?' Stone added.

'How is it that Hillary Clinton uses bleach to destroy a hard drive that includes classified documents but there are no raids on her home for prosecution of her?'

He continued: 'In political terms, these heavy-handed tactics are backfiring badly with the voters.

'Many particularly care for President Trump and are outraged are telling me that it's time to clean house.'

Secret Service agents posted outside the gates of Mar-a-Lago during the FBI raid of the property on Monday

Trump took 15 boxes of material with him in January 2021 after he left Washington D.C. The boxes were returned to the National Archives a year later in January 2022 but agents on Monday were looking to see if Trump had additional material; above workers move boxes out of the Trump White House on January 14, 2021

The above timeline highlights just some of former president Donald Trump's battles with the National Archives since leaving office, including an unrelated court fight with the January 6 committee

Trump has attempted to slow the release of presidential documents from the National Archives to the House select committee investigating the January 6 attack.

It's not clear what specifically is being investigated, but it's worth noting there are laws on the books against tampering and destruction of classified presidential records.

In October 2021, he launched a 26-page lawsuit against the Democrat-led House panel and the National Archives to block the release of the records and called the probe a 'fishing expedition.'

The attorneys had also requested that the National Archives send Trump's team any documents that could be relevant for review. Trump lost the case along with two subsequent appeals later that year.

Earlier this year the National Archives revealed that Trump had taken 15 boxes full of White House records to his Mar-a-Lago retreat after leaving Washington, DC the year before.

Officials from the Archives and the Records Administration had to retrieve the boxes this past January.

Stone, who had worked with other right-wing operatives to raise money and put the Jan. 6 protest into action, has also refused to cooperate with the investigation.

Stone was also at the center of an FBI raid in 2019 after being ensnared in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe of Russian interference in the 2016 election. He was later convicted in on seven counts of lying to Congress, witness tampering and obstructing the House inquiry

Stone, who had worked with other right-wing operatives to raise money and put the Jan. 6 protest into action, has also refused to cooperate with the investigation

And though he was closely associated with several far-right operatives who have since been convicted for their role in the riot, Stone himself has maintained he was not associated with the violence and had no prior knowledge it would occur.

He has refused to testify before the House committee, invoking the Fifth Amendment, and sued members of the panel to prevent them from subpoenaing his phone records.

Stone took the same defiant approach five years ago when he was among the highest profile people to be ensnared in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's probe of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

While other former Trump allies distanced themselves from the then-president in the midst of the investigation, Stone remained defiant and insisted he would not testify against the commander-in-chief.

He was ultimately convicted in November 2019 on seven counts of lying to Congress, witness tampering and obstructing the House inquiry into possible Trump campaign coordination with Russia.

The former president then commuted Stone's 40-month sentence back in July 2020 before granting him a full pardon absolving him of any record just before he left the White House.
Hyderabad: A non descript city-based realty firm, Vipinam Avenues LLP, has allegedly collected hundreds of crores of rupees from customers by selling undivided share (UDS) of land with a promise to build high-rise commercial space in the proposed West Wave towers in the upmarket Nanakramguda.

The promoters of the company have also announced projects in different areas including Kollur, Adibatla, Narsingi and Shamshabad under the same modus operandi. But, the projects remained a non-starter even years after they announced and the promoters collected money from the customers.

In some places the company did not even obtain permission from the authorities concerned before selling UDS, while the one taken in Nanakramguda lapsed a year ago.

The encumbrance certificates (EC) available with Deccan Chronicle show that the Vipinam group represented by its designated partner Umakanth Katta registered land, as small as 23 square yards, in Sy No. 104/P of Nanakramguda to the customers. According to the building permission taken for the land, 10 lakh sq ft of commercial space would be built in about five acres but there were allegations that more built-up space was required to match the space that was sold on paper.

As per Real Estate Regulatory Authority Act, selling land under the guise of UDS or pre-launch offers is illegal. But, the brochures and the publicity material for several projects openly announce the sale of UDS and registration of built-up space at a later time.

After Vipinam sold land, another company, Anuktha West Wave Developers Pvt Ltd, promoted by Umakanth started entering into development agreements with land buyers last month using the modus operandi, which according to RERA is illegal. Yet, no action was initiated by the Telangana RERA which has not had a full-fledged chairman since its inception.

A visit to the Nanakramguda site revealed that no construction work was being carried out and the locals informed that the works were suspended more than two years ago. Deccan Chronicle sent mails to Umakanth to the email IDs mentioned in the company data available with the ministry of corporate affairs but did not receive any reply till the report was filed.

The Facebook pages and publicity material in the name of Remax Hyderabad also reveal the illegal UDS activity. For instance, a gated community, Ozone Villas County, promoted by Remax Advantage promised a four-bedroom duplex villa for Rs 22 lakh if the customer bought 1,200 sq yds of UDS. A retail commercial space project in Kollur promised 1,000 sq ft of built-up space if 60 sq yds of UDS was purchased for Rs 24 lakh. In Adibatla Dream Catch Apartments were promised at Rs 12 lakh each as a pre launch offer with purchase of 121 sq yds of UDS.
A man arrested as the prime suspect in the serial killing of four Muslim men in Albuquerque is believed to be a Sunni Muslim himself, it has been reported.

Police named the man as 51-year-old Muhammad Syed, who lived in southeast Albuquerque.

He emigrated from Afghanistan 'in the last few years', police said on Tuesday, and was twice charged with domestic violence - but charges were dropped.

Court records obtained by DailyMail.com show Syed was arrested in May 2018 and charged with 'battery (household member)'. He pleaded not guilty, and prosecutors dropped the charges in August of that year.

Four months later, on December 23, 2018, Syed was charged with aggravated battery. The case was dismissed in April 2019.

It is believed that the suspected killer himself was a Sunni Muslim - and may have targeted his victims because he was angry over his daughter marrying a Shiite Muslim, according to the New York Times.

But the brother of one of the victims told DailyMail.com their family was Sunni, not Shiite, and he did not believe the hypothesis.

Muhammad Syed, 51, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with the murder of two fellow Muslim men

Albuquerque police on Tuesday said Syed was identified through his car, thanks to tip offs from the community.

'As detectives prepared to search Syed's home on Monday, Syed drove from the residence in the Volkswagen Jetta that detectives believe was used in at least one of the murders,' they said in a statement.

'Detectives detained Syed and searched his home and the vehicle.

'They discovered evidence that further tied Syed to the murders.

'Detectives discovered evidence that show the offender knew the victims to some extend and an interpersonal conflict may have led to the shootings.'

Syed has been charged with two of the murders that have rocked New Mexico's largest city: the July 26 killing of Aftab Hussein, 41, and the August 1 death of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27. Both men moved to the U.S. from Pakistan.

Police say the gun used in those two shootings was found in Syed's home.

The other two victims were both Afghan-born: Mohammad Zahir Ahmadi, 62 and Naeem Hussain, 25.

Four Muslim men have been shot and killed within a five-mile radius of each other over the past nine months

All of the victims had immigrated to the United States from South Asia, and were fatally shot within a five-mile radius of each other over the past nine months.

Islam's great schism In Islam, Sunnis and Shiites differ on who should have succeeded the Prophet Muhammad after his death in 632. Sunnis supported the succession of Abu Bakr, the prophet's friend, whereas Shiite Muslims believe the successor should have been the prophet's son-in-law and cousin, Ali bin Abu Talib. This difference has been the root cause of conflicts across the Islamic world for centuries. Sunnis believe Muslim leaders can be elected for the job. But Shiites believe leaders should be direct descendants of the Prophet Muhammad. The two denominations still believe in the same holy book - the Quran - and they also pray to the same god - Allah. Advertisement

Ahmad Assed, president of the city's largest mosque, said he had been told that a hatred of Shiite Muslims was being investigated as a possible motive.

The different denominations of Islam splintered off and have opposing beliefs on who should have succeeded the Prophet Muhammad. Both branches of the religion still follow the same holy book and worship the same god.

Yet Imtiaz Hussain, the brother of Afzaal Hussain, told DailyMail.com that he did not support the theory.

'My brother is a Sunni Muslim. Not a Shite Muslim,' said Imtiaz, who was a prosecutor in Pakistan before moving to Albuquerque.

'So I reject the theory that has been widely published that Muhammad Syed killed my brother and others because his daughter married a Shiite Muslim.

'My brother was a Muslim. He never carried any ID that said he was a Sunni or Shiite.'

Imtiaz Hussain also said he did not believe his brother knew Syed.

'He only went to the Islamic Center every three to four months,' he continued.

'I've never meet this person who murdered my brother nor do I think my brother knew him.

'He's 51 years old, my brother is 30 years younger, they wouldn't have a lot in common with that age gap.'

Assed said the fear in his community was even more intense than after the September 11 attacks, when anti-Muslim sentiment was heightened.

'To experience something as atrocious and as horrific as what we've experienced the past few weeks is just mind-boggling,' Assed said, adding people were afraid to go near windows.

'It feels like we're in a parallel universe.'

Mohammad Zahir Ahmadi, 62, was the first Muslim man killed in Albuquerque back in November 2021

The victims of an apparent serial killer include Aftab Hussein, 41, left, and Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, who was shot near the University of New Mexico on August 1. All of the victims immigrated to the United States from South Asia, and all practice the Muslim faith

Naeem Hussein, 25, became the most recent victim when he was gunned down in the middle of the street on Friday night

Police would not be drawn on their findings so far.

'The motives are still being explored,' said Deputy Commander Kyle Hartsock.

Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina announced on Twitter Tuesday: 'We tracked down the vehicle believed to be involved in a recent murder of a Muslim man in Albuquerque.

'The driver was detained and he is our primary suspect for the murders.'

Hartsock said: 'Right now we are only charging one person. If the evidence leads us to someone else, we're going to follow the evidence.'

He said the ballistic evidence from the murders had not yet been returned to them.

Hartsock said they were tipped off by someone in the community, through the Ambassador's Program which works on community relations.

Police received over 200 tips, they said.

Hartsock said that Syed had had misdemeanor run-ins with the law.

DailyMail.com has obtained Syed's charging documents, detailing his two 2018 arrests and the allegations against him.

In May 2018, Syed was arrested and charged with battery after his wife, Bibi Maimanay, accused him of attacking her.

Neither spoke English, but through a translator they were able to explain that they had been in the car, with Maimanay driving for the first time, and Syed told her she was a bad driver.

The pair began to fight, and Syed yanked his wife by the hair, the court documents state, and forced her from the car - leaving her to walk for two hours to their destination, New Mexico's Human Services Department.

When she arrived at the offices, Syed beat her again, leaving Maimanay on the floor in tears.

Police were called, and he was arrested.

Charges were dropped three months later.

In December 2018, Syed was arrested again, again on allegations of domestic violence.

Syed's son Maiwand said his father was beating both him and his mother, while his sister tried to hold Syed back.

Maiwand's head was bleeding after being hit with a metal spoon.

'Maiwand advised that Muhammad has routinely beat him and his mother in the past,' the police report states.

In April 2019 the charges were dropped.

The announcement of Syed's arrest comes just a day after the Albuquerque Police Department released photos of a dark gray sedan spotted by witnesses at one of the murder scenes, which they believed were used by the killer.

'Praise Allah,' said Tahir Gauba the director for public affairs for the Islamic Center of New Mexico.

He told DailyMail.com: 'The entire Muslim community had been paralyzed by fear, especially since last Friday's murder of Naeem Hussain.

'People weren't going outside. They weren't shopping. The were fearful of being shot.'

Gauba said he's hopeful police have the man who was responsible for the four men's murders.

'We need to be able to have peace in our life and go forward.'

Police had offered a $20,000 reward for any information leading to a suspect, as Muslim residents avoided going outside and questioned whether they were safe in the 'immigrant friendly' city.

Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina announced on Tuesday that a 'primary suspect' has been arrested in the murder of four Muslim men

Imtiaz Hussain (pictured) said his murdered brother Afzaal wanted to become a US congressman

The most recent killing came on Friday, when Naeem Hussein was gunned down in the middle of the street.

His death came just days after those of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain and Aftab Hussein, who were also from Pakistan and were members of the same mosque.

He had migrated to the United States as a refugee from Pakistan in 2016, CNN reported, fleeing persecution as a Shia Muslim.

Afzaal's brother Imtiaz Hussain told DailyMail.com: 'Whoever did this hunted my brother down like an animal. My brother didn't have an enemy in the world.

'He was planning on getting his US passport in the coming years and his American dream was to be a US Congressman from New Mexico.'

Imtiaz said his brother loved politics and loved America. 'My brother was only the second Muslim student president of the University of New Mexico in the schools 150-year history.'

He said that his brother went outside to take a phone call around 9:15 PM on August 1 and was gunned down in cold blood.

Imtiaz said the medical examiner told him that two guns were used in the attack: a pistol, and some sort of long gun.

Imtiaz said his family wanted to take Muhammad's body and fly it back to Pakistan, but his facial and head wounds were too grim.

Imtiaz showed DailyMail.com a photograph of his dead brother at the medical examiner's office. The picture shows Afzaal covered in a white sheet, with only half of his face visible. Imtiaz said the other half he said was blown off by the gunshot wound.

A neighbor, Daniel Byrn, who lives several doors down where Afzaal was gunned down in the front of his house on the sidewalk, told DailyMail.com: 'I didn't hear anything, I was asleep. But when the sirens started blaring, I looked outside my window and saw the body on the sidewalk.

'I was told by police to stay inside my house.'

It wasn't until the next day he noticed two bullets had ricocheted off his neighbor's garage. He said police told him they couldn't find the casings.

Imtiaz is thankful a suspect has been arrested.

'We've been living in fear ever since this happened. Now my two boys can go out on the balcony and play like normal kids,' he said.

Another neighbor who witnessed the shooting and who lives across the street from where Afzaal was murdered said she heard the gunfire.

Baylee Cassel told DailyMail.com she was sitting in her front room when she heard several gunshots.

She had looked out of her front window and saw a dark four-door sedan turning the corner onto her street, and seconds later stopping for a moment in front of a house.

She saw flashes of gunfire from the driver side, out the passenger side window.

She thinks she heard five or six gunshots.

Cassel said: 'I couldn't tell how many people where in the car, the back window and the driver windows were rolled up.

'I could only see inside the car for a few seconds when the driver started shooting out the passenger window.

'When that started, I ducked down for fear of him seeing me.'

Cassel said she wasn't even aware of who the driver of the vehicle was shooting.

She said since the incident she has now installed a Ring camera recorder outside her door.

The murders shocked Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico.

Police released photos on Sunday of a dark gray sedan they believed were used to transport the victims after it was spotted by witnesses at one of the murder scenes

Naeem Hussein had just become a United States citizen last month, his brother-in-law Ehsan Shahalami said, and he had opened his own trucking business earlier this year.

He had previously worked as a case manager for Lutheran Family Services, helping refugees who were relocated the United States from Afghanistan following the withdrawal of US troops from the country.

It was in that parking lot that he was shot and killed while in his car, the New York Times reports.

Hussein has been described as a kind, generous and hardworking person.

The day he was killed, a spokesman at one of the local mosques said, he had attended a funeral for two other victims  and had expressed his fears about the shootings.

Muslim-American organizations and activists have since been calling on the federal government to deploy resources to apprehend the attacker, with Al Jazeera reporting that the Council on American Islamic Relations urged the White House last week to take a 'direct role in responding to this shooting spree.'

On Sunday, President Joe Biden issued a statement saying he was 'angered and saddened by the horrific killings.'

New Mexico Gov Michelle Lujan Grisham also called the shootings 'wholly intolerable,' promising to do everything possible to support the state's growing Muslim population.

'I am sending additional State Police officers to Albuquerque to work in close coordination with APD and the FBI to bring the killer or killers to justice,' she wrote on Twitter Saturday, 'and they WILL be found.'

City officials have sought over the passed few years to affirm Albuquerque's status as an 'immigrant friendly city,' the New York Times reports, restricting federal immigration agents from entering city-operated facilities and city employees from collecting immigration status information.

There are now at least eight mosques in the city, and city officials have recently strengthened outreach efforts through translators that speak Arabic, Dari, Farsi, Urdu and Pashto.

In a news conference following Hussein's death on Saturday, Medina announced 'there is reason to believe that this death is related to those shootings.'

He said at the time he was in constant contact with the FBI and leaders of the local Muslim community to investigate the shooting, noting officers were working overtime to patrol Muslim neighborhoods and he was keeping a police presence in the area at all times.

The local Muslim community has been left shaken as they held a funeral for two of the victims on Friday, both of whom attended the same mosque

Assed, the president of Islamic Center of New Mexico, also spoke at the conference to condemn the string of murders in a city with between 5,000 to 10,000 Muslim residents.

'Our community is devastated,' Assed said. 'We've never gone through anything like this before.

'We're in fear of the safety of our children, of our families... but the message of hope still resonates. We need to find and capture this perpetrator or perpetrators.'

'Evil will not win. Hate will not win. And we will defeat evil and hate by working together.'

The first murder was carried out on the evening of November 7.

Mohammad Ahmadi was found outside the cafe he ran with his brother Sharief A. Hadi - Ariana Halal Market & Cafe.

The Afghan-born brothers emigrated to the United States with their father in the early 1980s: first living in Pennsylvania, then moving to New Mexico after Hadi, making a living selling gemstones, came across the region and loved it.

'I had to travel all over, then I got to New Mexico,' Hadi told ABP News Online. 'I like it  the weather and the people were so nice. And I chose to stay here because of my business.'

Hadi and his brother opened the market in 2008, with Ahmadi working as a cook, specializing in traditional Afghan dishes and often catering for groups at the nearby university.

Aftab Hussein worked as a busser for a local cafe and was putting together travel documents so he could return to Pakistan and get married before he was killed

He said he left Ahmadi at the shop to finish cooking, and suspects his brother had gone out to smoke a cigarette when he was shot around 6pm.

'I left at 5 o'clock and he had laid down in the back,' Hadi said.

'When I went home someone called me and said 'Sharief what's going on at your store?' When I came back the police were all over.'

Hadi in January said he was baffled by the unsolved murder.

'I don't have anything to tell you,' he said. 'He is my brother. I loved him, he loved me.'

Eight months later, a second Muslim man was murdered: Aftab Hussein, who moved to New Mexico in 2016.

Working as a busser for a local cafe, Hussein rented a second-story apartment near the Mesa Verde Community Center with two roommates and told them he had recently got engaged to a woman back home in Pakistan.

He was working to get his passport and other travel documents together so he could go to Pakistan and get married, his friend Iftikhar Amirjan told The Albuquerque Journal.

'He was very happy. He said 'I'll go to Pakistan and get married and bring my wife here' and he said 'I'll make my life,' you know,' Amirjan said.

'He said 'I'll buy a house later on and have children.''

Hussein was shot in the evening of July 26 in the parking lot of the complex where he lived.

Altaf Hussein sprinkles dirt over the grave of his brother Aftab Hussein, who was murdered on July 28 in the parking lot of his apartment complex

Along with Hussein, the community mourned the loss of 27-year-old Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, a native of Pakistan who was an active member of the community

Ahmad Assed, the president of Islamic Center of New Mexico, condemned the killings and said the community will do whatever it can to assist the FBI's probe

His roommates, frightened, have since moved out, while Hussein's brother has flown in from the United Kingdom.

The third killing was on July 26, when well-known local community organizer and city planner Muhammad Afzaal Hussain was murdered outside his home.

Born in Pakistan, he moved to the United States in 2017 to get a master's degree in community and regional planning at the University of New Mexico and served as president of the Graduate and Professional Student Association from 2019 to 2020.

He worked with Representative Melanie Stansbury's campaign for Congress and then got a job as the planning and land use director for the city of Espanola, 90 miles north of Albuquerque.

Hussein had been commuting for the past year but had planned to move to Espanola.

His older brother, Muhammad Imtiaz Hussain, a former prosecutor who moved to the U.S. in 2014 to continue studying law, had been staying with his sibling, and brought his two young children with him.

Jordan Yutzy, the Espanola city manager, said the team was in shock.

'He is going to be truly missed by the city,' Yutzy said.

'He was very smart, very dedicated, and really cared about the community as a whole. His will be very big shoes for the city to fill.'

The University of New Mexico also said it was 'deeply saddened to hear about the tragic and sudden loss of a cherished alumni' who 'was a prominent student leader and vibrant human being.'

'Muhammad was an inspiring leader and a really special Lobo who touched so many lives,' UNM President Garnett Stokes said. 'It was my privilege to know and work with him.'

Stansbury tweeted: 'As we grieve the unthinkable loss of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, law enforcement has released new information that his shooting may be linked with the deaths of Mohammad Admadi and Aftab Hussein in our community.

'We are working closely with federal, state, and local partners to protect our Muslim, immigrant, and Middle Eastern communities and bring those responsible to justice. Our communities will not tolerate hate in any form.'

Martin Heinrich, senator for New Mexico, meanwhile, said: 'Muhammad Afzaal Hussain was a pillar in the UNM community and an incredible force for good.

'I'm very concerned by law enforcement reports that his murder may be linked to two other murders of Muslim men in Albuquerque. Racist, hate-fueled violence has no place in New Mexico.'

And Tim Keller, the mayor of Albuquerque, said the city will continue to 'stand by our Muslim neighbors'.

'While we do not have all the answers yet, what we do know is that violence against members of our community based on race or religion will not be tolerated in Albuquerque,' he said in a statement.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been warned about a mountain lion stalking their neighborhood in California.

The couple were ordered to lock down their $14.6million mansion in Montecito after sightings of the vicious beast.

They were also told their flock of chickens could be an easy target for the predator and entice it towards their sprawling enclave.

The mountain lion was caught on outdoor security footage prowling just five miles from their home.

The clip showed the animal skulking down a homeowner's driveway, past his bins and his car, before heading off into the distance.

Experts suggested the lion may have headed down from the hills in search of food and water amid the widespread drought crippling California.

The couple were ordered to lock down their $14.6million mansion in Montecito after sightings of the vicious beast (pictured)

They were also told their flock of chickens could be an easy target for the the predator and entice it towards their sprawling enclave

The mountain lion was caught on outdoor security footage prowling just five miles from their home (pictured)

The couple showed off the hens they rescued from a factory farm when they appeared with Oprah last year

Mountain lions: 220lb beasts that take down ELK and are the second largest big cat in the Americas Mountain lions are the second largest big cat in the US after Jaguars. They can weigh up to 220lbs and reach 9ft from nose to tail. They have been known to attack humans and even take down elk when hungry. LA is one of only two large cities in the world where big cats live within the boundaries of the town, with Mumbai being the other. There is believed to be around 100 living in and around the Santa Monica Mountains. Scientists from the National Park Service have tagged most of them with GPS collars. Their lives are endangered in the region by loss of habitat, with many hit by vehicles as they desperately search for food. Some have also started inbreeding because they cannot escape their own area to find a suitable mate. Rat poison has also been a huge threat to them, with many households laying it out to rid their neighborhoods of vermin. A staggering 28 out of 29 mountain lions tested in a study by the NPS found anticoagulant compounds in their systems. Seven have also died due to the chemicals. A mountain lion last killed a human in California in 2004 when a 35-year-old man was mauled to death at Whiting Ranch Regional Park in Orange County. The last victim in the Montecito area was in 1992, when a none-year-old boy was attacked at Gaviota State Park. He lived but was littered with 50 puncture wounds and needed 600 stitches. Advertisement

Executive Director of the Montecito Association Sharon Byrne said: 'The fact we have security footage shows though that residents are taking this seriously as it was shot by a camera which is what we've been urging residents to install.

'We want all locals to secure their homes and secure their chicken coops and whatever other animals they may have.

'Chickens can be a fast, easy source of food for hunting animals so they have to be safe and secure.

'We also urge residents to secure their garbage so animals can go rummaging around for scraps, to have night lighting, alarms, cameras and so on.

'Mountain lions are solitary creatures and ultimately, they don't want to be around people so we're hoping this one moves on by itself.'

Harry and Meghan joined the hipster craze of adopting rescue chickens during the pandemic.

They also have two rescue dogs to look out for, which could also be targeted by the mountain lion.

The footage, recorded on July 23, has terrified locals who fear the beast could attack their children or pets.

The homeowner who took it had only recently installed the camera after a request from local authorities.

One local told the Sun: 'There are all kinds of animals in the neighborhood - coyotes, bears and deer - but it's rare to see a mountain lion.

'We're in a drought so the animals are thirsty but also there have been fires and a mudslide in recent years which seems to have brought down the bigger animals.

'People in the area feel safe during the day but they're taking precautions during the night.'

A mountain lion last killed a human in California in 2004 when a 35-year-old man was mauled to death at Whiting Ranch Regional Park in Orange County.

The last victim in the Montecito area was in 1992, when a none-year-old boy was attacked at Gaviota State Park.

He lived but was littered with 50 puncture wounds and needed 600 stitches.

The concerning update comes just a week after Meghan celebrated her 41st birthday with her family in the area.

A plaque on the side of the hut reads 'Archie's Chick In. Established 2021'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made a surprise appearance at the Jackson Hole Fourth of July parade, photos obtained by DailyMail.com show

The youngster wore a collarless striped shirt, pale blue pants and a red, black and white baseball cap emblazoned with California's Bear Flag  a nod to the family's home in the upscale celeb enclave of Montecito

The chickens were shown when the couple sat down for their bombshell chat with Oprah last year (pictured)

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were among the first to wish them happy birthday on their social media page.

They posted a picture of her at the Jubilee celebrations in the UK in June with the caption: 'Wishing a happy birthday to the Duchess of Sussex!'

Shortly afterward, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall went on to share a similar message and image of the mother of two.

The images selected by both couples show Meghan at the Queen's Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul's Cathedral and did not feature Harry.

The service was the only event from the Queen's Jubilee the Duke and Duchess of Sussex publicly attended. The Queen did not send a public message to her.

It marked the first time the couple were seen with 'The Firm' since the frosty Commonwealth Service at Westminster Abbey in March 2020.

The couple made only one public appearance over the Jubilee weekend, despite flying in from the US with their two children Archie and Lilibet.

They did not appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony and were also seemingly relegated to the second row during the Thanksgiving service.

Palace aides were said to have choreographed timing for the Platinum Jubilee service to ensure that William and Kate did not bump into Meghan and Harry.

The couple sat apart from William, Kate, Prince Charles and Camilla in the church after royal aides ensured they sat on separate sides of the aisle.

Harry and William have had a long-standing feud. Harry has also accused his father of cutting him off financially.

Meanwhile Meghan claimed an unnamed royal made a comment about Archie's skin tone before he was born, which she told Oprah Winfrey last year.

Prince William and Kate Middleton and Prince Charles and Camilla shared near identical photographs of Meghan Markle from their only public meeting with her in two years on her 41st birthday

Kate and Prince William (pictured with Charlotte last week) were the first members of the royal family to publicly send their best wishes to Meghan

Earlier in the week it emerged her favorite author Omid Scobie was writing yet another book, promising a 'new chapter of the royal story'.

He previously co-wrote Finding Freedom, a sympathetic account of Meghan and Harry's relationship and how they came to leave the UK.

That tome went into exhaustive detail about the Sussexes for over 400 pages, including specifics about luxury holidays and Meghan's cravings for sweets.

The new book  as yet untitled and written solo  is due for release next year.

While Meghan admitted she authorized a friend to give interviews for Finding Freedom, it is not clear if she has given the nod to the follow-up.

Scobie does, however, promise 'deep access' to the royals and their entourage.

Some royal-watchers believe the new volume may counter claims made in acclaimed biographer Tom Bower's new book, 'Revenge,' which is critical of the Duchess.

The book, which Meghan's estranged father Thomas contributed to  includes a slew of allegations, including that the Duchess once made Kate Middleton cry.

Earlier in the week it emerged her favorite author Omid Scobie was writing yet another book, promising a 'new chapter of the royal story'

Meanwhile Harry is releasing his own ghostwritten memoir this year, which he has described as 'a first-hand account of my life that's accurate and wholly truthful.'

It comes as it was claimed Harry and Meghan will not be visiting the Queen when she takes her summer break at Balmoral, despite an invitation.

Her Majesty reportedly asked the couple and their children, three-year-old Archie and Lilibet, one, to stay at her Scottish residence and told royal staff to prepare.

It was said the Sussexes would not have to spend time with other royals, like Charles and William.

But the couple, who last went to Balmoral in 2018, are said to not be planning to attend the Scottish Highlands estate over the next few months.

A Balmoral insider told the Sun: 'Staff have been told to expect the full list of royals including Harry, Meghan and their children. They are preparing for the Sussexes.'

Another source is reported to have said: 'I would be stunned if they did turn up.' It is understood the couple are planning to stay in the US before Harry's memoir.

Meanwhile Meghan faces a renewed effort from her sister Samantha to bring a defamation battle against her.

Lawyers for Samantha said they have a 'viable' case against her half-sister because they have 'actual proof of the falsity' of statements she made.

Samantha is suing the Duchess of Sussex for allegedly peddling a 'rags to riches' tale in her Oprah interview, and also over comments in the book Finding Freedom.

While Meghan's legal team are arguing the claims she made on Oprah were a result of 'how she felt' and that she did not write Finding Freedom so cannot be held liable, Samantha's counsel says she was labelled as a liar as a result of what was said, which they argue was based on falsehoods.

Samantha Markle is pictured with her half-sister Meghan Markle at her graduation in 2008

Jamie Sasson, of the Ticktin Law Group, told Newsweek: 'We clearly put into our complaint the damage that was caused to Samantha Markle by her being labelled a liar.

'She now faces online comments of 'Meghan's lying sister' and she never lied about anything.'

In a court document, Samantha, the daughter of Thomas Markle, Meghan's father, claims the Meghan launched a 'premeditated campaign to destroy' her and her father's reputation.

She claims her sister tried to ruin their credibility so 'they could not interfere with or contradict the false narrative and fairy tale life story concocted by the defendant'.

She also alleges Meghan lied when she claimed she 'essentially raised herself from virtual poverty' and from 13 had to take on low-paying jobs to 'make ends meet'.

Her lawyers said that Meghan saying she 'grew up as an only child' can't be false because it is a 'textbook example of a subjective statement about how a person feels about her childhood'

The Sussex's lawyer hit back at the lawsuit (pictured), claiming it was 'baseless' and they would give it 'the minimum attention necessary'. Scobie also dismissed the claims'

Meanwhile Samantha, 57, launched an astonishing broadside on her sister's friend and biographer Omid Scobie as she blasted Finding Freedom.

Samantha hits out at Scobie and Carolyn Durand's book Finding Freedom, which she dubs her sister's 'fairytale life story'.

She claims the book caused 'substantial and irreparable prejudice, injury, and harm' to her reputation.

She listed a series of texts in the biography she disputes, including that she dropped out of high school.

Meghan's lawyer has previously hit back at the lawsuit, claiming it was 'baseless' and they would give it 'the minimum attention necessary'. Scobie also dismissed the claims.

In their latest round of legal documents, Meghan's attorneys slap down Samantha's assertion that it was dishonest for Meghan to claim she grew up as an only child, claiming it is how she feels despite her technically having two half-siblings.

'It is hard to imagine a more personal and subjective feeling than how one views their own childhood.

'Moreover, Plaintiff's opposition completely ignores the context of the statement, where Ms Winfrey asked Meghan about her 'relationship' with Plaintiff (to whom Ms Winfrey referred as her 'half-sister on her father's side').

'Meghan's response to that question that she 'grew up as an only child' was obviously not meant to be a statement of objective fact that she had no genetic siblings or half-siblings.'

But Mr Sasson told Newsweek that his team intend to argue being an 'only child' is not subjective, adding: 'Either you're an only child or you're not.'

He said as a result of the comments made by Meghan, his client was perceived as a 'liar' by the general population who accused her of 'making up a story claiming that she was Meghan Markle's sister when, indeed, she truly was'.

A young Meghan is pictured with her father Thomas Markle, from whom she is also estranged

Meghan also dismisses Samantha's complaints about information in Finding Freedom, a book by her friend Omid Scobie, saying Meghan can't be held liable for its content because she didn't write it.

One of the pieces of information reported to have been supplied by Meghan was that Samantha 'lost custody of all three of her children from different fathers'.

'Meghan did not make the statements; she cannot be liable for them. It is that simple,' her lawyers say.

Mr Sasson told Newsweek that they will argue Meghan 'instructed' that certain elements were included in the book.

Referring to the Duchess by her first name throughout the documents, her lawyers asked the court: 'In sum, Meghan's motion to dismiss should be granted, as should her request for attorneys' fees, costs and other relief.'

The sisters are thought to have last seen each other in 2008 but they have butted heads over versions of their childhoods in recent years.

Samantha's rocky relationship with Meghan exploded into public view after her sister's engagement to Prince Harry was announced in 2017.

She was quoted by journalists as saying 'The Queen would be appalled' and called her a 'ducha**' on Twitter.

She gave numerous interviews attacking the Duchess but has since backtracked and complimented her.

Samantha also released a book about her sister last year titled The Diary of Princess Pushy's Sister: A Memoir, Part One.

It lays bare claims about the Markles' upbringing, including the rivalry when their father was still married to the actress's mother Doria Ragland.

But Samantha also writes of her adoration for Meghan as a baby and described the infant as 'bi-racial, beautiful, and was both the color of a peach, and a rose'.

A judge is set to rule on Meghan's filing to have her half-sister's lawsuit dismissed with no date set for when the ruling will be delivered.
A teenage girl has been raped and another sexually assaulted at a park in east London.

Police rushed to Highams Park Lake in Chingford just before 9.30pm on Sunday, believing the incident to have taken place between 4.30pm and 8.45pm.

Both girls are said to be being supported by specialist officers.

Police rushed to Highams Park Lake in Chingford just before 9.30pm on Sunday, believing the incident to have taken place between 4.30pm and 8.45pm

A cordon was put in place and the area closed while officers investigated.

There have been no arrests and enquiries are ongoing, the Met Police said.

A spokesperson said: 'An investigation is under way after police received a report of a rape and a sexual assault involving two teenage girls.

'The incident happened in Highams Park Lake in Chingford between 4.30pm and 8.45pm on Sunday, August 7 and was reported to police shortly before 9.30pm that evening.

'A crime scene was put in place while the scene was dealt with. Both girls are being supported by specialist officers. There have been no arrests; enquiries are ongoing.'
Big Apple Mayor Eric Adams wants to take his quarrel with Governor Greg Abbott to Texas, threatening on Tuesday to bus New Yorkers to the Lone Star state to get out the vote against the southwestern Republican.

'I already called all of my friends in Texas and told them how to cast their vote,' Adams said. "I am deeply contemplating taking a busload of New Yorkers to go to Texas and do some good old fashion doorknocking, because for the good of America we have to get him out of office.'

Abbott is facing former Democratic flavor-of-the-month Beto O'Rourke in the November gubernatorial general election.

'It sounds like the Mayor of New York has taken on the additional role of political director for the Beto O Rourke campaign,' Abbott's campaign spokesman told the MailOnline.

Democratic New York City Mayor Eric Adams threatened to bus New Yorkers to Texas in order to undermine support of incumbent Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott

Last week, Governor Abbott started to bus undocumented migrants to New York City to protest the elimination of a federal emergency order that made deportation faster and easier

Last week, Abbott began to bus undocumented migrants to New York City in a symbolic show of protest for President Joe Biden ending a pandemic program that allows border agents to more easily thwart illegal border crossings.

He bused about 100 people from Texas over the weekend.

Abbott has invited Adams and DC Mayor Muriel Bowser to tour his state and see first hand what the border crisis looks like.

Without the Texas Republican's program, Adams says that the city's shelter system has been overwhelmed by 4,000 immigrants who have flooded into the city looking for shelter and work.

Asylum-seekers wait to be transported by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, agents after crossing the Rio Grande river into the U.S. from Mexico, at Eagle Pass, Texas, U.S., July 26. Both Texas Governor Abbott and Arizona Governor Doug Ducey signed orders allowing migrants the option of taking free buses to Washington, DC and New York City

Texas Governor Greg Abbott tore into NYC Mayor Eric Adams on Monday after he said busing migrants to the Big Apple from border communities flooded with illegal immigration is 'horrific'

Over the weekend Abbott bused a 100-plus undocumented migrants from Texas to New York City so that they could use city support services

Adams (center in white shirt) is seen on Sunday welcoming children who arrived in New York City on a bus from Texas. While 40 migrants were expected, only 14 disembarked in New York City due to fear over crime in the Big Apple

Over the weekend, Mayor Adams oversaw the distribution of food and services to migrants being shipped to New York City from Texas

On Tuesday, Adams called Abbott's program 'irresponsible' for using human beings for a 'political ploy.'

He had previously called Abbott's program 'horrific.'

"It's unimaginable to come to this country and your first visit here and someone trying to throw you out as the Governor of Texas is doing,' Adams said. 'I think he's irresponsible. I don't think he's accomplishing anything. There's a reason the Statue of Liberty is there. We all came from somewhere... I don't think he's accomplishing anything except exposing the type of individual that he is.'

Adams' press office said that they could not speak to the mayor's political plans and stressed that the mayor said that this was something he was contemplating.

On Monday, the governor called Adams a 'hypocrite.'

Texas Democratic gubernatorial candidate will face off against incumbent Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in the fall

'Mayor Adams is hypocritically upset about welcoming a few dozen into his sanctuary city,' the governor said.

What's horrific is the thousands of illegal immigrants overrunning and overwhelming our border communities with populations smaller than a New York City borough.'

New York has considered itself a sanctuary city for undocumented migrants and does not cooperate with immigration enforcement officers on deportation or detention matters.

Adams, who New Yorkers have criticized for trying to roll back criminal justice reform, has been using the spat with to prove his Democratic bona fides.

Abbott has found Adams to be a useful foil to show Texas voters that he's tough on immigration.

O'Rourke, the governor's political rival, won just under a million votes in the Democratic primary in March. Abbott won 1.3 million votes.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, at least a dozen times on Tuesday, declined to comment on the federal raid into Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home.

She repeatedly said she would not comment on FBI agents entering the former president's private residence and would only say that President Joe Biden had no head's up from the Justice Department that the raid was coming.

'The President was not briefed,' she said and 'was not aware of it.'

'No one at the White House was given a heads up,' she added.

In response to repeated questions, Jean-Pierre said over and over again the White House would not comment on the raid that had happened the day before.

'We're not going to comment from here from this White House on a criminal investigation that is currently happening,' she said.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, at least a dozen times on Tuesday, declined to comment on the federal raid into Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said President Biden had no head's up on the raid at Mar-a-Lago; 'The President was not briefed,' she said, noting 'no one at the White House was given a heads up'

She refused to answer questions on the political implications of the raid.

Republicans charge politics at play with the raid coming as Trump is considering another run for the White House and the 2022 midterm election, which will determine control of Congress, about 90 days away.

The Monday raid at Mar-a-Lago was reported to be part of an investigation into whether Trump took classified documents with him when he left the White House.

The Justice Department and the FBI have repeatedly declined to comment.

Jean-Pierre refused to say whether Biden wanted Attorney General Merrick Garland to explain publicly the rationale for the search amid the concerns about politicization of the probe.

'The Justice Department conducts investigations independently and we leave any law enforcement matters to them,' she said. 'We are not involved.'

Jean-Pierre said Biden learned of the raid from 'public reports' but wouldn't give any more specifics. And she emphasized Biden's committment to keep the Justice Department independent of the White House. Trump was criticized for trying to influence DoJ investigations as president.

'The president in the White House learned about this FBI search from public reports we learned just like the American public did yesterday, and we did not have advance notice of this activity. President Biden has been very clear from before he was elected president and throughout his time in office at the Justice Department conducts its investigations independently,' she said.

She didn't answer when asked if Garland approved the raid.

'I don't have anything more to share,' she said. 'We have not been briefed on this.'

Republicans rushed to the former president's defense.

Mike Pence, who was vice president under Trump and is a potential 2024 rival, tweeted Tuesday: 'Yesterday's action undermines public confidence in our system of justice and Attorney General Garland must give a full accounting to the American people as to why this action was taken and he must do so immediately'

Eric Trump told Fox News that Biden's White House was the force behind the raid.

'This didn't come from a local FBI field office in Palm beach, Florida. You know this came from? This came from one place and one building, and that is the White House in Washington, D.C. They want to attack a guy who they view as his greatest threat, Biden's greatest threat,' Eric Trump told Fox News host Sean Hannity on Monday night.

Trump, in his lengthy statement on Monday night blasting the raid, called it 'prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately don't want me to run for President in 2024, especially based on recent polls, and who will likewise do anything to stop Republicans and Conservatives in the upcoming Midterm Elections.

The Justice Department wouldn't say whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorized the search.

The FBI gave US Secret Service agents at Mar-a-Lago advance notice and they cooperated letting them into the property, NBC News reported. The Secret Service agents but did not take part in investigation or search.

This meant the FBI did not have to break into the property or bust down any doors.

A search warrant does not suggest that criminal charges are near or even expected but it would have to be court authorized.

Garland and his DoJ are under heavy political pressure of their own - from Democrats who want the former president indicted to Republicans who will blast any probe as election-year politics.

House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy warned Garland of payback. He pledged to investigate the raid if Republicans win control of the House in November, which they are expected to do.

'Attorney General Garland, preserve your documents and clear you calendar,' he said in a statement on Monday night.

Police cars in front of Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday

Donald Trump was spotted leaving Trump Tower in New York on Monday night after announcing his Mar-a-Lago home had been raided by the FBI

The investigation is focused on material that Trump brought with him to Mar-a-Lago after he left the White House, the New York Times reported, specifically if he has classified information in his private possession, which would be a violation of federal law.

Trump took 15 boxes of material with him in January 2021 after he left Washington D.C. The boxes were returned to the National Archives a year later in January 2022 but agents on Monday were looking to see if Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at his South Florida estate, the AP reported.

The search focused on the area of the club where Trump's offices and personal quarters are, CNN reported, noting Trump's personal attorney Christinia Bobb was present during the search.

And, during a meeting at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year, Trump's attorney showed federal investigators documents that were being kept on site, including some that were marked classified, the network noted.

The Justice Department wouldn't say whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorized the search but it's highly unlikely a raid on a former president would take place without the AG giving it the stamp of approval.

In February, the National Archives and Records Administration asked DoJ to examine whether the former president violated federal law. There are multiple statutes governing classified information, including a law punishable by up to five years in prison that makes it a crime to remove such records and retain them at an unauthorized location.

National Archives officials recovered 15 boxes of White House materials from Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in mid-January.

Among the items Trump had to return were correspondence with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that Trump has described as 'beautiful letters' and a handwritten letter that former President Barack Obama had left behind in the Oval Office for his successor.
A Canadian woman accused of faking her and her son's death and moving to Oregon to escape a custody battle has been arrested.

Dawn Marie Walker faces federal charges of aggravated identity theft and possession of false identification documents after the brazen move.

The 48-year-old allegedly let cops believe she had been swept away with her seven-year-old son while fishing on a riverbank near Saskatoon.

A passerby had flagged to officers a purse, a broken fishing pole halfway in the water and a blanket that was left on the ground on July 23.

Her truck was also found nearby and a $10,000 reward was put out for information on their whereabouts.

But she was rumbled when cops realized she had allegedly been using a friend's identity to access her bank accounts and had made it into the US.

Dawn Marie Walker faces federal charges of aggravated identity theft and possession of false identification documents after the brazen move

A search of her car also allegedly revealed notes showing how she had planned her disappearance, including 'dye hair' and 'cover tattoo'

The checklist went on: '1. Negative Covid test 2. Fishing Rod 3. Phone (dead) 4. Vehicle/bike 5. Dye hair 6. Cover tattoo'

They tracked her blue Chevrolet Equinox to an Airbnb in Oregon City that was also booked under the friend's name, an affidavit seen by Oregon Live says.

Walker was arrested on Friday following the manhunt but allegedly told cops: 'He doesn't want to be with his father.'

A search of her car also allegedly revealed notes showing how she had planned her disappearance, including 'dye hair' and 'cover tattoo'.

A map shows the distance between where Walker abandoned her belongings in Saskatoon and where she was later found and arrested

The checklist went on: '1. Negative Covid test 2. Fishing Rod 3. Phone (dead) 4. Vehicle/bike 5. Dye hair 6. Cover tattoo.'

Another said 'park car (black wig)', 'ditch phone in water,' 'ditch vehicle by bridge' and 'find nearest border'.

Cops also found a cellphone, a large sum of Canadian currency, Visa cards, a Tangerine bank debit card in her friend's name, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada Certificate of Indian Status card and a Saskatchewan driver's license.

The 48-year-old allegedly let cops believe she had been swept away with her seven-year-old son while fishing on a riverbank near Saskatoon

A passerby had flagged to officers a purse, a broken fishing pole halfway in the water and a blanket that was left on the ground on July 23

Her son was taken care of by law enforcement officers and his father was told that he was alive.

Walker was held in Multnomah County Detention Center and charged with aggravated identity theft and possession of false documents of identification.

She appeared in federal court in Portland on Monday afternoon where prosecutors argued she should remain in custody pending extradition.

Canadian authorities are also expected to push for parental abduction and public mischief by misleading the police.

Assistant US Attorney Scott Kerin told the court: 'The elaborate scheme she engaged in was designed for one purpose  to avoid the law and not be found.

'This was not a spur of the moment event. The defendant put time and a lot of effort into planning her crime.'

She will appear in court again on Wednesday afternoon where she will plead to get bail.
The notorious 'duck sauce' killer tried to exonerate his wife in his suicide note, insisting that weapons found in a closet in her home belonged to him.

The killer's real name was Glenn Hirsch. He took his own life last week hours before he was due to appear in court on murder charges for killing Zhiewan Yan, a Chinese-restaurant delivery man who he allegedly killed in a row over his order.

Hirsch was addicted to duck sauce and insisted on being given copious amounts whenever he ordered from the restaurant where Yan worked, according to cops and other staff at the restaurant.

He killed himself after being bailed out of jail on a $500,000 bond.

Before his death, his wife Dorothy was also arrested because police found weapons wrapped in aluminum foil stashed inside a closet in her apartment in New York City.

In a letter to the court today, however, her attorney revealed that Glenn tried to save her in his 'dying declaration' by insisting she had no knowledge of or connection to the weapons.

In a suicide note, Glenn Hirsch said his wife had nothing to do with the guns found in her closet and insisted they were all his

In a court submission on Tuesday, Dorothy's attorney quoted her late husband's suicide note which attempted to exonerate her

'I want to take full responsibility for the eight guns recovered from a closet in Dorothy's apartment. I acquired these firearms many years ago and they remained undisturbed in an outside storage facility shared with previous roommates.

'However a couple of years ago when my wife purchased her new cooperative apartment.

'I decided to close the storage unit. It was at that time I moved those items into my wife's apartment and placed them inside a hallway storage closet along with numerous other unopened bags and boxes...

'She had absolutely no part in obtaining the firearms nor did she have any knowledge they were inside of her residence,' the 'dying declaration' reads in part.

Dorothy's attorney says it is only fair that the charges are now dropped.

He previously said Dorothy, who works as a registered nurse, hasn't lived with her husband, Glenn Hirsch, for years.

A photo of the contents of the closet that authorities searched during the June raid

Eight fireams concealed in garbage bags and kept in a closet in the Briarwood home of Dorothy Hirsch. Dorothy hasn't lived with her husband, Glenn Hirsch, for a year, the attorney said

Zhiwen Yan, 45, (pictured) with his wife in what appears to be a wedding photo. Yan, who worked as a Chinese food delivery man, 45, was shot dead in New York City: The shooter was a disgruntled customer who had 'multiple' disputes with the restaurant over his orders and twice threatened workers with a gun

'She is a good and decent, law-abiding woman who is being prosecuted merely because she is legally married to the person who is accused of committing a heinous murder.'

'She should be judged on the merits of the credible evidence against her, not the alleged criminal acts of her husband.'

'The DA is fully aware that he had access to her apartment and that the guns were recovered in boxes and garbage bags, among Glenn Hirschs other junk in a closet used by him,' Bederow said.

'The DAs own paperwork acknowledges that the other items recovered from the closet were his things. He is linked to at least one and possibly more of the firearms by forensic evidence.'

He added: 'To prosecute Dorothy, a decent 62 year old woman who has never been arrested with knowingly possessing his firearmswith the intent to use them unlawfullyis preposterous.'

On June 3, Hirsch was arrested after police conducted a raid at her home two days after her husband and alleged killer was charged in the April 30 shooting death of Zhiwen Yan.

Police records show the couple live in separate homes with Glenn living in nearby Jamaica.

Mourners left flowers, candles, photos, and drawings at the scene at the Great Wall Chinese food restaurant in Forest Hills for murdered delivery man Zhiwen Yan

Yan, a father-of-three who moved to New York more than two decades ago, was doing delivery-rounds on his scooter in Forest Hills, Queens, cops say, when he was blasted in the chest.

The shooting saw Yan and Hirsch, who was believed to be driving an older model of a Lexus RX3 SV at the time, briefly exchange words at a traffic light before Yan was hit near 108th Street and 67th Drive, in what is usually a quiet and close-knit area.

A witness nearby later told investigators that Hirsch fled the scene.

Police revealed they captured Hirsch on surveillance footage pacing around the restaurant for roughly an hour on the night of the shooting before following Yan.
A homeless man who sucker-punched legendary comedian Rick Moranis in New York City in late 2020 pleaded guilty to felony assault charges Tuesday.

Marquis Ventura, 37, has been promised a sentence of two years in state prison after he pleaded guilty to assault in the 2nd degree, as well as six additional charges pertaining to four additional victims: Attempted assault in the 2nd degree, petit larceny, and four counts of assault in the 3rd degree, according to the Manhattan District Attorney's Office.

Ventura had initially denied the charges but changed his plea to guilty in Manhattan Supreme Court on Tuesday.

Sentencing is set for August 23.

The man is also accused of randomly attacking other strangers in 2020, including the owner of a liquor store in the Soho neighborhood of Manhattan before stealing a bottle of champagne.

Ventura, who has been arrested more than 13 times, is a suspect in multiple other unprovoked attacks on people in New York City.

Marquis Ventura, who sucker-punched legendary comedian Rick Moranis in New York City in 2020, pleaded guilty to felony assault charges Tuesday

Marquis Ventura, 37, has been promised a sentence of two years in state prison after he pleaded guilty to assault in the 2nd Degree, as well as six additional charges pertaining to four additional victims

Ventura pleaded guilty to attempted assault in the 2nd degree, petit larceny, and four counts of assault in the 3rd degree, according to the Manhattan District Attorney's Office

Ventura had initially denied the charges but changed his plea to guilty in Manhattan Supreme Court on Tuesday

Ventura is alleged to have punched actor Rick Moranis in an unprovoked attack in late 2020 that was captured in surveillance video

Ventura admitted to punching actor Rick Moranis in an unprovoked attack on October 1, 2020, that was captured in surveillance video.

The horrifying footage shows Moranis, then-67, who is 5ft 6in walking southbound on Central Park West near West 70th Street at about 7:30am.

Suddenly, an unidentified man walking past the star strikes him in the head, knocking Moranis to the ground.

Ventura was arrested by a transit cop at the 96th Street and Broadway subway station. Of Ventura's 13 arrests, five include felonies.

While the unprovoked attack was caught on video, other nearby surveillance cameras also managed to catch images of the suspect.

Rick Moranis, 69, was walking on New York City's Upper West Side on Thursday around 7:30am when he was attacked. Surveillance footage captures a stranger walking past him abruptly punching Moranis in the head, knocking him to the ground (left and right)

Ventura was arrested by a transit cop at the 96th Street and Broadway subway station. He has a history of 13 arrests - including five for felonies

While the unprovoked attack was caught on video, other nearby surveillance cameras also managed to catch images of the suspect

The attack caused Moranis to suffer pain in his head, back and right hip.

The ex-convict has also been accused of randomly attacking other strangers last year, including the owner of a liquor store in the Soho neighborhood of Manhattan before stealing a bottle of champagne.

Last year, Justice Diane Kiesel said that Ventura has refused two attempts to get him to submit to a psychiatric examination to determine if he is mentally able to stand trial, the New York Post reported.

Moranis, who was born in Toronto, Canada, secured his big break when he appeared in the 1983 film Strange Brew.

He then appeared in a string of commercially successful films including Ghostbusters in 1984, Spaceballs in 1987, and two films in 1989, Ghostbusters II and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.

Moranis, who was born in Toronto, Canada, secured his big break when he appeared in the 1983 film Strange Brew. Pictured: Moranis at an unknown location, May 1994

Rick Moranis and his man-eating plant in the 1986 film, 'Little Shop of Horrors'

Rick Moranis and Marcia Strassman in the 1989 Disney film, 'Honey, I Shrunk The Kids'

Sigourney Weaver and Rick Moranis in the 1984 science-fiction comedy 'Ghostbusters'

The original Honey, I Shrunk the Kids was so successful that Moranis returned for sequel Honey, I Blew Up The Kid in 1992.

He completed the trilogy with straight-to-video sequel Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves in 1997 which was his last on-camera role before his hiatus.

Moranis has largely remained out of the spotlight since, only doing voicework for a few animated projects including the 2003 film Brother Bear and TV series The Animated Adventures Of Bob & Doug McKenzie.

He said he made the decision to step away to focus on being a single father to his children, Rachel and Mitchell, after losing his wife, costume designer Ann Belsky, to breast cancer in February 1991.

He told USA Today: 'As a single parent and I just found that it was too difficult to manage to raise my kids and to do the traveling involved in making movies.

'So I took a little bit of a break. And the little bit of a break turned into a longer break, and then I found that I really didn't miss it.'
Albanians are among the most common foreign-born parents in the UK for the first time.

More than 3,000 babies were born here last year to mothers from the Balkan country, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed.

But the figures have prompted questions about the true size of the Albanian population in the UK, which according to official figures stands at less than 50,000.

It comes after a shock report leaked to The Mail on Sunday revealed four in ten migrants crossing the Channel in dinghies were from Albania  a peaceful nation in talks to join the EU  far outnumbering those fleeing war or persecution in Afghanistan or Syria.

Some 3,000 children were born to Albanian-born mothers according to new data released by the Office of National Statistics

The Mail on Sunday had earlier revealed that four in ten people arriving in the UK after crossing the English Channel on small boats is from Albania. Pictured, migrants arriving in Dover earlier this month

The ONS said Romania was the most common country of birth for non-UK-born mothers. 'Albania moved into the top ten most common countries of birth for both non-UK-born mothers and non-UK-born fathers for the first time,' the ONS said.

Among mothers, Albania became the tenth most common country, up from the 41st a decade ago.

And among fathers it became the eighth most common country, up from 36th a decade ago.

Former home office minister Sir John Hayes said: 'It is peculiar that there should be so many babies born here to Albanian parents given the official statistics on their numbers. One is left asking if large numbers of Albanians are here illegally or if they are being granted visas by some other means, and if so why.'

ONS figures for 2019 estimated there were just 47,000 Albanians in the UK  making them the 46th most common overseas-born nationality  of whom 22,000 were female.

Peter Walsh of the Migration Observatory at the University of Oxford said: 'Available immigration data do not provide a clear explanation of why Albania has moved for the first time into the top ten most common countries of birth for migrant parents.

'Possible explanations for this include the ONS population estimate being too low [for example due to irregular migration or low response to government surveys], or that Albanians are more likely to be of childbearing age and hence have more children.'

Majority of babies were born out of wedlock in 2021 for the first time on record and British women in their 40s now twice as likely to give birth than teens, official figures show

More babies were born outside of marriage in England and Wales last year than to wedded couples for the first time on record, official figures show.

The latest Office for National Statistics data shows around 625,000 live births were logged in the two nations in 2021. But 321,000 of these were outside of marriage or a civil partnership, while 304,000 were within one.

It means just 48.7 per cent of newborns were to a legal couple, falling below the 50 per cent threshold for the first time since records began in 1845. The rate has been trending downwards for the last century.

Meanwhile, the figures also reveal that twice as many women aged 40 and over became mothers last year compared to teenagers, with 30,542 and 13,738 births logged, respectively, marking the biggest gap ever seen.

More babies were born outside of marriage in England and Wales last year than to wedded couples for the first time on record, official figures show. The latest Office for National Statistics data shows around 625,000 live births were logged in the two nations in 2021. But 321,000 of these were outside of marriage or a civil partnership, while 304,000 were within one

The slight increase in births last year was driven mainly by women in their 30s, with women aged 35 to 39 (light green) seeing the sharpest increase at around 5 per cent. Women aged 20 and under saw a fall of 16 per cent

The changing face of British families comes against the backdrop of declining fertility rates that dates back decades and has been linked to women choosing to pursue careers over starting a family in their twenties.

Meanwhile, fascinating timelapse maps show how the birthrate in England and Wales has plummeted over the last decade. The fertility rate was 1.61 children per woman in 2021, the second lowest on record and only slightly higher than the 1.58 in 2020.

The slight increase in births last year was driven mainly by a jump in women in their early 30s having children, who had a rate of 1.07, up from 1.03 the year before.

Experts believe the increase in older women giving birth is because they are leaving it until later in life to have children to pursue careers, as well as advances in IVF and other fertility treatments.

Despite projections of a baby boom during the first year of the pandemic as couples were forced to spend more time together indoors, the birthrate sank to its lowest level.

Families were thought to have been put off due to fears about the impact of the virus on the economy and their ability to access medical facilities while pregnant.

Latest figures show that more than half of babies are now born to parents who are not married or in a civil partnership.

The number of births per woman hit an all-time low in the first year of the pandemic, with birthrates falling at pace since 2012, when around 730,000 children were born

The rate peaked at 96 per cent in the early 1900s, before falling to 80 per cent in 1985, 70 per cent in 1991 and 60 per cent in 2001.

It comes amid a trend of couples focusing on their careers and getting married and having children later in life.

Separate ONS data, published in May, shows the average age of marriage in 2019 was 34 for men and 32 for women, compared to 32 and 29 two decades earlier.

The ONS data also shows that women are now twice as likely to have a child in later life than teenagers.

Teen mothers gave birth to more babies every year than women aged 40-plus and until 2012, but the trend has been reversing ever since.

And in 2021, 13,738 newborns were to mothers aged under 20, compared to 30,542 among older women.

It is the first time on record that the gap between the age groups has been so large. Just two decades ago there were three times as many teenage mothers as those over 40.

The birth rate among women in their teens and early twenties also fell to their lowest ever levels last year, with 8.4 and 43.2 newborns per 100,000 women, respectively.

Some 119,413 babies were born to women in their twenties, while 341,680 live births were logged among women in their thirties, marking the ninth year in a row that women's thirties was the most popular decade to have children.

The number of older mothers has soared in recent decades, as more women concentrate on their career and start families later.

But doctors tend to warn women not to leave it too late to have children. They stress that with age fertility drops and their risk of complications, including stillbirths, increases.

Experts estimate women in their late forties have as little as a one in 20 chance of becoming pregnant because of their lower supply of eggs, which are less capable of being fertilised.

The British Fertility Society previously warned celebrities who have children in their 40s are giving women false hope about late motherhood.

Demand for donor eggs, one of the most common methods for older women to have a baby, have soared in recent years.

Other options include IVF, if the woman still has some of her own eggs, or even intrauterine insemination - when sperm is directly placed into the uterus using a catheter. Fertility drugs and surgery are two other possibilities.

Meanwhile, England and Wales's total fertility rate increased for the first time since 2012, although it is still lower than every other year on record.

This is the average number of children a woman would have based on current birthrates.

The ONS figures are based on birth registrations, and delays mean some births in 2021 may not be covered.

It follows provisional data, based on NHS births notifications data, published by the ONS in March.

Fertility rates increased across all regions of England in 2021, except for London and the West Midlands.

Of the total number of live births in 2021, 445,055 were to UK-born women, 179,726 were to non-UK-born women, and in 47 births the country of the mother was not stated.

The percentage of live births to non-UK-born women decreased to 28.8 per cent in 2021 from 29.3 per cent in 2020.

This was similar to the percentage in 2019 and the result of a higher number of UK-born women giving birth.

Romania became the most common country of birth for non-UK-born mothers in 2021, while Pakistan remained the most common country of birth for non-UK-born fathers.
Former President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed President Joe Biden knew about the FBI's raid of Mar-a-Lago in advance, something the White House has denied.

'Biden knew all about this, just like he knew all about Hunter's "deals,"' the ex-president posted to his Truth Social website.

Hunter Biden's foreign business dealings have attracted contoversy, though the president has denied being involved in them.

Trump also pushed that the Mar-a-Lago raid was a continuation of politically motivated investigations against him.

'A horrible thing that took place yesterday at Mar-a-Lago,' he wrote. 'We are no better than a third world country, a banana republic.'

'It is a continuation of Russia, Russia, Russia, Impeachment Hoax #1, Impeachment Hoax # 2, the no collusion Mueller Report, and more,' he continued.

'To make matters worse it is all, in my opinion, a coordinated attack with Radical Left Democrat state & local D.A.'s & A.G.'s,' the former president added.

On Monday, Trump confirmed that FBI agents had raided Mar-a-Lago, after media reports said agents were spotted leaving the ex-president's Florida home and private club.

It marks the first time in U.S. history the home of a former president has been raided.

A number of public officials have called for an explanation.

'The country deserves a thorough and immediate explanation of what led to the events of Monday,' said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell Tuesday night. 'Attorney General Garland and the Department of Justice should already have provided answers to the American people and must do so immediately.'

Former President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed President Joe Biden knew about the FBI 's raid of Mar-a-Lago in advance, something the White House has denied

'Biden knew all about this, just like he knew all about Hunter's "deals,"' the ex-president posted to his Truth Social website

Hunter Biden (left) and President Joe Biden (right) pose for a photo in 2016. Trump claimed that the president knew about the FBI's raid of Mar-a-Lago in advance, just like he knew about Hunter's "deals." Hunter Biden's foreign business deals have attracted controversy

The former president called the raid a 'coordinated attack with Radical Left Democrat state & local D.A.'s & A.G.'s.' Trump is facing legal problems in Georgia and New York over the scheme to turn over the 2020 election and real estate fraud, respectively

McConnell, who had a falling out with Trump over the ex-president's false election fraud claims, had previously not commented on the raid. McConnell waited until just over 24 hours to respond.

Trump confirmed the raid in a statement Monday evening, saying the move represented 'dark times for our Nation,' pushing that the Biden administration was going after him as a political target.

Trump is mulling a 2024 presidential run.

A number of media outlets reported that the raid stemmed from an investigation into Trump removing classified documents from the White House and not the Department of Justice's current probe into January 6, which is also partially focused on Trump.

The House select committee on January 6 is also investigating the January 6 Capitol attack and Trump's action surrounding it.

The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday night that the FBI hauled away 10 boxes of documents during the raid, after the National Archives retrieved more than a dozen boxes of documents from the Florida resort earlier this year.

Additionally, the ex-president is facing potential legal problems in Georgia and New York.

In Georgia, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis is investigating the scheme to run over the state's 2020 presidential election result.

And in New York, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg is looking into whether Trump's companies misrepresented the value of properties for loan and tax purposes.

Eric Trump departs Trump Tower the day after his father, former President Donald Trump, said FBI agents raided his Mar-a-Lago home. Several news outlets reported that the raid had to do with the removal of classified material from the White House

Additionally in New York, Letitia James, the New York state attorney general, is conducting a civil investigation into whether Trump's company inflated real estate values.

In a campaign-style video Tuesday morning, Trump insisted that 'we are a nation that has weaponized its law enforcement against the opposing political party, like never before.'

'What took place yesterday, and long before, was an unprecedented infringement of the rights of every American citizen,' he said in a third Truth Social post Tuesday night.

'Scam after Scam, year after year, it is all the Radical Left Democrats really know, it is their lifeblood - they have no shame. Our Country is paying a very big price!!!' he added.

The White House, however, has insisted its hands are clean.

During Tuesday's press briefing, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden 'was not briefed' ahead of the Monday raid.

The president, she said, 'was not aware of it.'

'No one at the White House was given a heads up,' Jean-Pierre said.

A number of Trump allies have called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to speak publicly about the raid.

So far he hasn't commented.

The Justice Department also wouldn't comment when asked if Garland personally authorized the search.
PATNA: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will chair a crucial meeting of JD(U) MPs and MLAs on Tuesday, amid the buzz of a conflict with its NDA partner BJP in Bihar.

The speculation of a split within the NDA was triggered after reports of Nitish Kumar speaking to Congress president Sonia Gandhi over the phone surfaced on Monday. While the JD(U) remained tight-lipped, Congress leaders in Patna said that the party has asked all its MLAs to remain in Patna for the next few days.

The RJD which is the main Opposition party has also called a meeting of all its MLAs in Bihar. The RJD said it was ready to embrace Nitish Kumar and his JD(U) if he broke ranks with the BJP. RJD national vice-president Shivanand Tiwary said that convening meetings of legislators by both parties on Tuesday were a clear indication that the situation was extraordinary.

Tension within the NDA peaked following the resignation of former union minister R.C.P. Singh from the JD(U) after the party refused him a Rajya Sabha seat and allegations of amassing illegal assets were leveled against him.

The JD(U) has been accusing the BJP of engineering a split within the JD(U) through Singh.

Our party was reduced to 43 seats during the 2020 Assembly elections due to the use of the Chirag Model. A similar conspiracy was being hatched even after the elections to defame Nitish Kumar which he understood and diffused in time. JD(U) national president Rajiv Ranjan alias Lalan Singh said.

The Chirag Model refers to the allegation that the LJP, then led by Chirag Paswan, fielded candidates only in constituencies were JD(U) contested as part of the alliance with the BJP. The JD(U) believes this cost the party many seats and made it the junior partner in the alliance.

The JD(U) also appeared upset over BJP chief J.P. Naddas recent comments in which he had said that only BJP will remain and regional parties will disappear.

Our leader Nitish Kumar has done historic work for Bihar in the last 15-16 years. Anyone can come and see the change, what Bihar used to be earlier and what is now. Bihar has become a model of good governance, senior JD(U) leader Umesh Kushwaha said.
A despairing Scottish family is being kicked out of Australia today after 10 years despite doing nothing wrong, just days after the Biloela family were given permanent residency.

Electrical expert Mark Green, 44, was headhunted for his specialist solar installation skills in 2012 and flown to Australia with his wife Kelly, 45, and daughter Rebecca, 19.

But they are being thrown out the country at 10pm after a series of broken promises by his employers left them stranded without their visas or permanent residency.

However the Tamilese Murugappan family were granted permanent residency on Friday to allow them to stay in Biloela in Queensland after immigration minister Andrew Giles stepped in following a public outcry.

But he refuses to intervene to help the Greens - and won't even comment on their case.

The Labor minister was slammed this morning by 2GB radio host Ben Fordham for his apparent hypocrisy.

'Dont ignore the double standard here  the minister is happy to show compassion when theres enough publicity for him to look like a hero,' said Fordham

'Hell step in to help one family but allow another to be kicked out of Australia. It exposes the hypocrisy of the federal government and politics of large.'

Mark Green, 44, his wife Kelly, 45, and daughter Rebecca, 19. are being kicked out of Australia at 10pm on Wednesday after Labor Immigration minister Andrew Giles refused to intervene

The Greens moved to their new home in Adelaide with the promise of their permanent residency being sponsored by the company flying him in.

But every time he's been eligible, the employers have folded before the paperwork could be completed - and it's now happened seven times to the devastated family.

They are now being kicked out of the country even although they've done everything by the book.

Relocating to the UK has cost them $60,000 - and forced them to leave behind beloved pet dog Maisie and 12 year old pet rabbit Marmaduke because of the prohibitive $35,000 cost of flights and quarantine fees.

The Greens have already spent more than $150,000 on immigration lawyers and visa and residency applications but must leave the country before they can apply again.

Mark Green (left) and his wife Kelly moved 16,000km from Scotland to their new home in Adelaide, with their permanent residency being sponsored by the company flying him in

'We sold it all to come out here and then we started again,' Mr Green told Daily Mail Australia.

'And now we're having to sell it all, to go back to Scotland, to try and apply to come back again, to restart again. For the third time.

'I'm nearly 50. We can't go through this anymore. There's nothing for us back in Scotland now.'

He added: 'This is where I live. This is where my heart is. It'll never change. Even if I go back to Scotland, here is where I will class as home.'

The family have been on a sponsored work visa since arriving which has meant they need to pay for everything Australians take for granted, on top of paying their taxes.

They were denied access to Medicare or free public state schooling for daughter Rebecca, which costs them $8,000 a year - but they say they paid without complaint.

'Home is here. Home is in Australia,' said Fordham on air today in a furious blast at the government.

'They've been here for 10 years. Home is South Australia. And home is Adelaide. These are decent, hard working people.

'They've made an enormous contribution to the local community. They've been here for 10 years. Let them stay.'

But he said the Labor government had refused to step in.

'No flexibility, no special consideration. You're out - and they're out today,' he said.

'Letters to the Immigration Minister Andrew Giles have gone unanswered. Even a last ditch letter from the lawyers overnight has been ignored.

'We've invited the minister on to the program. He has declined.'

Electrical expert Mark Green, 44, was headhunted for his specialist solar installation skills in 2012 and flown out to Australia with his wife Kelly, 45, and daughter Rebecca, 19

He said he backed the help given to the Biloela family - but was disgusted by the callous treatment of the Greens.

'They had a lot of high profile supporters including Barnaby Joyce, and Tony Abbott and many people in the Labour Party - good luck to them.' he said.

'But don't ignore the double standard here. The minister is happy to show compassion when it suits or when there's enough publicity for him to look like a hero.

'He'll step in to help one family but allow another to be kicked out of Australia. We have a skills shortage here and that's why Mark Green was brought to Australia in the first place for his skills.

'Can the minister please tell us what's the difference between these two families?'

He added: 'This could have been fixed with a stroke of a pen. But it sounds like the minister just doesn't care.'

The Tamilese Murugappan family were granted permanent residency on Friday to allow them to stay in Biloela in Queensland after immigration minister Andrew Giles stepped in

A petition begging the government to reconsider their case has been supported by almost 16,000 people - but the minister stubbornly refuses to get involved.

Mark's wife Kelly, originally from Kilbirnie, 40km south-west of Glasgow, said arriving in Australia was 'the best day of our lives... the best day ever.'

They wanted to stay in Australia permanently but needed their bridging visa changed from an E-type to a C-type to let them apply to stay without having to leave.

The family has been undone by firms sponsoring Mark as an employee and starting a three year route to residency, but going bust before the process is complete.

Relocating to the UK is set to cost the family $60,000 - and will force them to leave their beloved pet dog Maisie (pictured with mum Kelly, left, and daughter Rebecca) behind because of prohibitive $35,000 flights and quarantine fees

'The company went into liquidation and which means I have to start again, all three years, all over again,' said Mr Green, originally from Prestwick, Ayrshire.

'That's happened seven times to me. Most of them closed because of warranty issues - they don't want to guarantee the warranty of the product.

'It ends up costing them money, so what they do is they shut up shop and they open up under another business name.'

The final straw for the Greens came after one employer told him he'd applied for the Greens' residency and paid their fees - but hadn't, causing them to unwittingly overstay their working visa.

'I was let down by my former employer,' he said. 'I trusted him and he lied to me.

'The government has a responsibility to protect me as a foreign worker who was invited to come to Australia to work and was let down by an Australian company.'

Their son Jamie had already flown home to Scotland after the visa conditions meant he was unable to work in Australia for years.

The family has been fighting to stay in the country for a year.

Mr Green won't even be able to work in his industry when he arrives back in Scotland as his UK electrical qualifications are now out of date after a decade in Australia.

The final straw came after one employer told Mark Green he'd applied for their residency and paid their fees - but hadn't, causing them to unwittingly overstay their working visa

He has nothing in Scotland and nowhere to live, with his elderly parents unable to cope with the family joining them while they wait for their visa to be approved.

'Everything I hoped for here is gone,' said Mr Green.

'The stress is terrible. Absolutely terrible. It's not fair. Not fair at all.

'Nobody has been in contact with me about trying to sort this out. All they say to me is I have to leave the country.

'My mum and dad are nearly 80 - as much as they would love to see us, they don't want a family staying with them. It could take up to two years.

'I thought I'd have my own company and my own home by now but instead our life is in turmoil.'

Their case was taken up by Adelaide politician Frank Pangallo of South Australia's Best Party, but he couldn't get a hearing with the government either.

'Forcing a family to leave a country theyve called home for 10 years simply to return to their country of origin to re-apply to return to Oz seems pointless and ridiculous,' he said.

'And this is all happening while governments grapple with changes to the countrys skilled migration program due to massive shortages across the country.'

A plea to the previous Liberal immigration minister Alex Hawke was rejected and fresh appeal to the new Labor immigration minister Andrew Giles has fallen on deaf ears.

Mr Pangallo added: 'If you want skilled migrants to come into this country, you better give them an undertaking they'll be able to stay here and not be booted out when it suits you.

'It's absolutely disgusting.'

A spokesman for Mr Giles insisted the immigration minister never commented on individual cases, despite commenting extensively on the Biloela case.

She then told Daily Mail Australia: 'The minister does not comment on the individual circumstances regarding the Green family.'
A former Twitter employee was found guilty of spying for Saudi Arabia and releasing private user information of those who publicly criticized the country in exchange for large sums of money.

Ahmad Abouammo, 44, used his position as an engineer at Twitter to access confidential data about users, their email addresses, phone numbers and IP addresses that can disclose their location, prosecutors claimed.

He then passed that information on to an official linked to the Saudi royal family in exchange for a luxury watch and hundreds of thousands of dollars.

An 11-person jury found Abouammo guilty of being an illegal agent of a foreign government, money laundering, falsification of records and one count of wire fraud on Tuesday. He was found innocent on five other counts of wire fraud.

Abouammo remained free on Tuesday pending sentencing, despite concerns expressed by prosecutors that he might try to flee the country. He is scheduled to return to court Wednesday for a hearing.

The case marked the first time the kingdom, long linked to the US through its massive oil reserves and regional security arrangements, has been accused of spying in America.

Former Twitter employee Ahmad Abouammo was found guilty of spying for Saudi Arabia and releasing private user information of those who publicly criticized the country in exchange for large sums of money. He is pictured leaving Santa Rita jail in Dublin, California in Nov. 2019

Abouammo, a dual US and Lebanese citizen, worked for the social media platform from 2013 to 2015. He managed media partnerships with high-profile users in the Middle East and North Africa.

Prosecutors claimed the father-of-three was recruited into the spying scheme in 2014 by Bader Al-Asaker - also known as Bader Binasaker - an aide to then-Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The pair met when Al-Asaker was touring Twitter's headquarters in San Francisco, California and forged a relationship shortly thereafter, The Wall Street Journal reported.

In December, approximately six months later, Abouammo met with Al-Asaker in London while on a work trip. After the trip he flew back to the US with a watch valued at more than $40,000, investigators claimed.

'That luxury watchit was not free,' prosecutor Eric Cheng said during closing arguments last week. 'The kingdom had now secured its Twitter insider.'

Ahmad Abouammo, 44, was accused of using his position as an engineer at Twitter to access confidential data about users, their email addresses, phone numbers and IP addresses that can disclose their location

Abouammo was arrested in November 2019 and charged with 11 counts, including spying. He had pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released from jail on bond

Prosecutors said that a week after the England trip Abouammo began accessing data from the anonymously run account 'mujtahidd.' Al-Asaker reportedly wanted the account suspended, but it still remains active today.

Cheng also argued that Abouammo took bribes of amounts close to triple his annual salary for almost a year:

'They paid for a mole,' he argued. 'We all know that that kind of money is not for nothing.'

'The evidence shows that, for a price and thinking no one was watching, the defendant sold his position to an insider of the crown prince,' US prosecutor Colin Sampson echoed in his final remarks to the jury.

Defense attorney Angela Chuang countered that while there certainly appeared to be a conspiracy to get revealing information about Saudi critics from Twitter, prosecutors failed to prove Abouammo was part of it.

She argued that her client was doing his job while employed at Twitter and that the US 'government hadn't proven beyond a reasonable doubt' that Abouammo was acting as a spy for Saudi Arabia.

Abouammo was recruited into the spying scheme in 2014 by Bader Al-Asaker (pictured), an aide to then-Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

The pair met when Al-Asaker was touring Twitter's headquarters in San Francisco (pictured)

The prosecution, however, pointed out that Abouammo received multiple payments of $100,000 each into a bank account in Lebanon that was created under his father's name. He then made wire transfers of $10,000 to a US account.

He also failed to report the watch or monetary payments to Twitter, violating company policy requiring workers to disclose any offerings worth more than $100.

Chuang agreed Abouammo should have reported Al-Asaker's gifts to his then-employer, but argued that 'misstep wasn't enough to convict him.'

'We just spent the last two weeks in a glorified HR investigation,' she told the court, adding that it was 'important to make the distinction between breaking federal law and violating workplace policies.'

Additionally, prosecutors alleged Abouammo had recruited his Twitter colleague, Ali Alzabarah, into the scheme and introduced him to Al-Asaker.

Ahmad Abouammo and wife Zeina Elassi-Abouammo are shown on her Facebook page in a photo posted June 22, 2022

Zeina Abouammo, second left, whose husband, US citizen Ahmad Abouammo, is accused of using his position at Twitter to spy on accounts, arrives for a detention hearing at US District Court, Western District of Washington in Seattle on November 8, 2019

Alzabarah, who worked in website maintenance, allegedly used his employee credentials to access email addresses, birth dates and other information about Twitter users who made posts criticizing the Saudi royal family.

Officials believe he provided the Saudi government with the personal information of more than 6,000 users in 2015, including at least 33 usernames for which Saudi law enforcement had submitted emergency disclosure requests to Twitter.

When Twitter asked Alzabarah why he was accessing the user data, he fled the country and submitted his resignation letter via email why traveling to Saudi Arabia.

Alzabarah and another man, Ahmed Almutairi, where both charged by the US Justice Department for their roles in the scheme.

Alzabarah, a Saudi national, is being sought on a charge of failing to register in the US as an agent of a foreign government as required by federal law, according to an FBI statement.

Chuang contended in court that prosecutors were trying to punish Abouammo for Alzabarah's actions.

'As much as the government wishes that was Mr. Alzabarah sitting at the table right now, it is not,' Chuang told jurors. 'And that is on them, they let Mr. Alzabarah flee the country while he was under FBI surveillance.'

Almutairi is also believed to have returned to Saudi Arabia. The FBI has issued arrest warrants for both men.

Additionally, prosecutors alleged Abouammo had recruited his Twitter colleague, Ali Alzabarah (pictured), into the scheme and introduced him to Al-Asaker

Alzabarah and another man, Ahmed Almutairi (pictured), where both charged by the Justice Department with acting as illegal agents of a foreign government for their roles in the scheme

Abouammo was first interviewed by the FBI at his Seattle home in 2018. He was working as a social media consultant at the time after having been employed at Amazon for nearly three years.

Agents claim he 'lied' about his involvement with the scheme during the interview and provided them with a 'fake invoice' he had created 'just moments before.'

He was arrested in November 2019 and charged with 11 counts, including spying. He had pleaded not guilty to the charges and was released from jail on bond.

His trial, which was held this summer, lasted about two weeks and featured testimony from current and former Twitter employees, FBI investigators and the defendant's sister. Abouammo did not testify in his trial.

His friends and family wrote letters depicting him as a 'loyal and responsible family man' who provided support to his niece when she needed surgery.

It took the jury nearly three says to come to the consensus that Abouammo was guilty of spying, jurors disclosed after reading their verdict.
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Russian media have blamed 'saboteurs' for huge explosions above Putin-annexed Crimea which left one dead and five injured - as an aide to the Ukrainian president contradicted a military official who earlier claimed responsibility.

The deadly blasts rocked a military airbase in the region on Tuesday afternoon, causing an ominous mushroom cloud to soar into the sky, sending sunbathers running from nearby beaches.

As many as 15 distinct explosions were reported by eyewitnesses, according to various sources, over the course of a minute around 3:30pm local time.

Yet another blast was triggered around 30 minutes later, causing large plumes of thick black smoke to snake from the direction of the base in Novofedorivka, Western Crimea, which is located around 130 miles from the nearest Ukraine-controlled territory.

Russia's Defense Ministry denied the Saki base on the Black Sea had been shelled and said instead that munitions had blown up there.

Furthermore, Margarita Simonyan, the editor-in-chief of the Russian RT news channel, tweeted that the explosions were caused by 'sabotage'.

Nevertheless, Ukrainian social networks have been abuzz with speculation that it was hit by Ukrainian-fired long-range missiles.

One Ukrainian military official speaking on condition of anonymity told the New York Times that the nation's armed forces launched the attack.

'This was an air base from which [Russian] planes regularly took off for attacks against our forces in the southern theatre,' the official said, adding that 'a device exclusively of Ukrainian manufacture was used' to carry out the attack.

Iryna Vereshchuk, the Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister of Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories, did post on Facebook, saying: 'Today's explosions in Novofedorivka are another reminder of who is Crimea. Because it is Ukraine.'

But an advisor to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy insisted Ukraine is not taking responsibility for the explosions.

Mykhailo Podolyak, asked by the Dozhd online television channel whether Kyiv was taking responsibility, replied: 'Of course not. What do we have to do with this?'

The head of Crimea's health department said five people, including one child - believed to be a 13-year-old boy -, were injured in the explosions, while Russian governor of Crimea Sergei Aksyonov announced one person was killed.

'I express my most sincere condolences to the victim's family and friends. All necessary assistance will be provided,' he said via the Telegram messaging app.

Russia annexed the Crimean peninsula from Ukraine in 2014 and has occupied the territory ever since despite widespread condemnation from much of the international community.

If the airbase was in fact struck by the Ukrainians, it would mark the first known major attack on a Russian military site in Crimea since Putin's forces invaded Ukraine on February 24.

A video circulating on social media showed Russians fleeing Crime over the Kerch bridge

Rising smoke can be seen from the beach at Saky after explosions were heard from the direction of a Russian military airbase near Novofedorivka, Crimea, Tuesday August 9

A large mushroom cloud is seen rising from the scene of explosions at a Russian held airbase in Novofedorivka, Crimea

Smoke rising after detonations of air munisions at the Saki airfield near the Novofedorovka settlement, Crimea

Ukraine has not yet officially claimed responsibility, but a Ukrainian military official speaking on condition of anonymity told the New York Times that the nation's armed forces launched the attack

If the airbase was in fact struck by the Ukrainians, it would mark the first known major attack on a Russian military site in Crimea since Putin's forces invaded Ukraine on February 24

Several large explosions have rocked a military airbase in Russian-held Crimea this afternoon as an ominous mushroom cloud sent bathers fleeing from nearby beaches

Iryna Vereshchuk, the Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine and Minister of Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories, did post on Facebook, saying: 'Today's explosions in Novofedorivka are another reminder of who is Crimea. Because it is Ukraine.'

Russia claims the explosions were caused by detonating aircraft ammunition. Ukraine has not yet officially commented on the blasts

People seen resting and sunbathing on a beach as smoke and flames rise after explosions at a Russian military airbase, in Novofedorivka today

At least 12 distinct explosions were reported by eyewitnesses, according to various sources, up to as many as 15

Smoke rises after explosions were heard from the direction of a Russian military airbase near Novofedorivka, Crimea, in this still image obtained by Reuters August 9, 2022

Shocked beachgoers watched on as the smoke began billowing from the direction of the base, before being instructed to evacuate by police officers

Smoke rises after explosions were heard from the direction of a Russian military airbase near Novofedorivka, Crimea, August 9

A view shows broken windows of a residential building after explosions were heard from the direction of a Russian military airbase near Novofedorivka

Novofedorivka is located more than 130 miles from the nearest part of mainland Ukraine not occupied by Putin's troops, and Ukrainian authorities have not officially taken responsibility for the blasts.

However, Viktor Andrusiv, a political scientist and former adviser to Ukraine's Ministry of Internal Affairs, wrote on Telegram: 'As you can understand - missiles with a range of 200-300km are already in service with us and are being used in our country.

'The explosions... today at the airfield in Novofedorivka in Crimea, are public proof of this.'

Russian's defence ministry meanwhile denied the explosions were caused as a result of incoming missile fire, claiming: 'Aircraft ammunition detonated at the ''Saky'' airfield near the village of Novofedorivka at a rubble storage site.

'No aviation equipment at the airfield was damaged. Measures are being taken to extinguish the resulting fire and investigate the cause of the explosion.

'According to the report from the site, there was no fire impact on the collapsed ammunition storage area at the airfield.'

Russia's state news agency Tass quoted an unidentified ministry source as saying the explosions' primary cause appeared to be a 'violation of fire safety requirements.' The ministry said no warplanes were damaged.

Ukraine's Defense Ministry said sarcastically on Facebook: 'The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine cannot establish the cause of the fire, but once again recalls the rules of fire safety and the prohibition of smoking in unspecified places.'

It is also claimed that a boy, 13, suffered a cut wound to his forearm and a pensioner was left with a shrapnel wound after the explosion.

Other reports claim that Russian firefighters were not allowed into the site but there has been no explanation of why.

Videos shared on the Telegram messaging app showed the aftermath of the explosions, with tourists fleeing from a nearby beach and police urging people to take cover.

One local said, according to the Sun, 'It slammed so loudly that we were deafened.'

Another was heard saying: 'Something is burning in Novofedorivka. There are some explosions as it burns.'

Local officials meanwhile reported a 5km safety perimeter was erected around the airfield.

The airbase close to Saky and Novofedorivka is home to Russia's 43rd Separate Naval Assault Aviation Regiment of the Black Sea Fleet.

A variety of Russian air force planes are stationed at the base, including Su-30SM, Su-24M and Su-24MP fighter jets and Tu-134 freight aircraft.

Crimea has so far been spared the intense bombardment and artillery combat that have taken place in other areas of eastern and southern Ukraine since Feb. 24, when President Vladimir Putin ordered Russian armed forces into Ukraine - including some based in the peninsula.

Oleg Kryuchkov, an advisor to governor Aksyonov, refused to speculate on the incident, telling Russia's RIA Novosti: 'So far, I can only confirm the fact that several explosions occurred in the Novofedorivka area.

'I ask everyone to wait for official messages and not to produce their own version of events.'

Satellite images of the airbase in Novofedorivka show a number of Russian fighter jets parked alongside the runway. The airbase close to Saky and Novofedorivka is home to Russia's 43rd Separate Naval Assault Aviation Regiment of the Black Sea Fleet

Smoke rises after explosions were heard from the direction of a Russian military airbase near Novofedorivka today

Oleg Kryuchkov, an advisor to governor Aksyonov, refused to speculate on the incident, telling Russia's RIA Novosti: 'So far, I can only confirm the fact that several explosions occurred in the Novofedorivka area'

Smoke rises after explosions were heard from the direction of a Russian military airbase near Novofedorivka, Crimea August 9, 2022

Emergency services from the nearby town of Saky were deployed to the blast site, the TASS news agency reported. A Russian defence source meanwhile denied the explosions were caused as a result of incoming missile fire

'I earnestly ask you to trust only official information. All necessary measures have been strengthened to ensure the safety of infrastructure and the population,' the governor of Crimea urged citizens following the blasts

Large plumes of black smoke are seen snaking from the direction of the Novofedorivka airbase

Smoke engulfs a beach near to the airbase which sustained several explosions this afternoon

Before admitting one person had been killed, Aksyonov earlier followers via Telegram he was en route to the blast site and that 'circumstances are being clarified', before scrambling to assuage the locals' concerns.

'Ambulance crews and medical aviation are working on the spot, there are enough of them,' he said.

'It is too early to talk about the victims. Among the civilian population, no one has yet applied to medical institutions for help.

'I earnestly ask you to trust only official information. All necessary measures have been strengthened to ensure the safety of infrastructure and the population.'

The TASS news agency confirmed that emergency services from the nearby town of Saky were deployed to the blast site, citing the regional health ministry, while locals reported congestion on roads leading away from the coast as members of the public fled.

Earlier Tuesday, Ukrainian officials that at least three Ukrainian civilians were killed and 23 wounded by Russian shelling in 24 hours, including an attack not far from the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

The Russians fired over 120 rockets at the town of Nikopol, which is across the Dnieper River from the plant, Dnipropetrovsk Gov. Valentyn Reznichenko said.

Ukraine and Russia have accused each other in recent days of shelling the power station, the biggest nuclear plant in Europe, stoking international fears of a catastrophe.

In his nightly video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky invoked the 1986 disaster at the Chernobyl nuclear plant in Ukraine, which at the time was a Soviet republic. He called for new sanctions against Russia, accusing it of risking another nuclear disaster.

'We are actively informing the world about Russian nuclear blackmail,' he said.

The Kremlin claimed that Ukraine's military was attacking the plant and urged Western powers to force Kyiv to stop.
Police have found a mother and her baby son from Manchester after they launched an appeal.

Sascha, 29, and six-month-old Clay were first noticed to be absent from their home in Blackley, a suburban area of the city, at about 4pm on Saturday.

In a short statement released late on Tuesday evening, Greater Manchester Police said: 'They have been found safe and well.'

Sascha (pictured), 29, and six-month-old Clay were first noticed to be missing from their home in the Blackley area at about 4pm on Saturday

It is not known what either of them are wearing but it is believed Sascha has taken Clay's (hte pair pictured) pram, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said

In an earlier appeal, superintendent Sarah Morton pleaded for Sascha to get in touch.

She said: 'Sascha, if you're reading this, please contact us or someone trustworthy so we can check that you and Clay are safe and offer support.'

They were subsequently discovered by officers four days after going missing.
A teenage boy has been arrested after a 13-year-old girl was 'sexually assaulted while walking through a woodland' in Sheffield.

The victim was walking in the Chapeltown area of the city between 6.15pm and 6.45pm on Monday when the incident took place.

She was approached and sexually assaulted by a male, who then fled the area on foot, police have said.

A 16-year-old boy, who is known to the victim, has been arrested on suspicion of rape of a female aged 16 or under. He remains in police custody at this time.

The victim and her family are being supported by specially trained officers.

The victim was walking in a woodland area close to Lane End (pictured) in the Chapeltown area of the city when the incident took place, police have said

A spokesperson for South Yorkshire Police said: 'Officers investigating a serious sexual assault in Sheffield on Monday have made an arrest.

'A 16-year-old man known to the victim, from Sheffield, has been arrested on suspicion of rape of a female aged 16 or under and remains in police custody at this time.

'If you have any information that could help officers, please contact us using live chat, our online portal or by calling 101. Please quote incident number 899 of 8 August 2022.'

Anyone with information can also pass on information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers via their website  www.crimestoppers-uk.org  or by calling their UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111.
Prince Grigory Potemkin, who established the Black Sea Fleet in Crimea in 1783

The Black Sea - and the Crimean peninsula which juts into it - are a strategic crossroads between Europe, the Middle East and Asia which has been contested by Empires and nations for centuries.

The sea itself contains vital trading routes, is bordered by five of Russia's near-neighbours, and today hosts vital energy pipelines and fibre optic cables.

For Russia to assert power in the waters, control of Crimea - which contains its main Black Sea port at Sevastopol and controls the Kerch Strait leading to the nearby Sea of Azov - is essential.

Crimea has, at one time or another, come under the control of the Greeks, Persians, Romans, Mongols, Ottomans.

It was not until 1783 that it fell fully under the control of the Russian Empire when Russian generals Alexander Suvorov and Mikhail Kamensky led a force of 8,000 men to victory against an Ottoman army of 40,000 at the the Battle of Kozludzha.

Russia's Prince Grigory Potemkin quickly established the Russian Black Sea Fleet at the port of Sevastopol, from where he asserted naval power over the Black Sea, it neighbours including Georgia, Ukraine and Turkey, and projected power further into the Mediterranean.

Crimea also turned into a key trading post. On the eve of World War 1 in 1914 - some 50 per cent of all Russia's exports and a full 90 per cent of its agricultural exports passed through Bosphorus Strait which leads out of the Black Sea.

In 1954 Crimea was given as a 'gift' by Nikita Khrushchev to Ukraine, ostensibly to mark the 300th anniversary of Ukraine's merger with Tsarist Russia, but more likely to secure Ukraine's support for Khrushchev's leadership and to cement Ukraine as part of the Soviet Union.

Because Ukraine was then part of the Union, Moscow maintained control over Crimea and its vital ports - at least until 1991 when the union collapsed and Ukraine became and independent county.

Following Ukraine's independence, access to the peninsula became a bargaining chip between the two nations, with Ukraine recognising Russia's right to the port at Sevastopol in return for concessions such as writing off debts and taking control of part of the Black Sea fleet.

But in 2014, the pro-Moscow government of Viktor Yanukovych was overthrown in a popular uprising that wanted to draw the country closer to Europe.

Fearing the loss of the port at Sevastopol, Putin marched troops into Crimea and seized control of it - later holding a 'referendum' which showed majority support for the region to become part of Russia, though the result is viewed as far from credible.

Today, Moscow is in control of the peninsula and refers to it as part of its territory, though most world bodies refer to the region as 'occupied Crimea'.

The Black Sea Fleet remains one of Russia's largest, believed to be comprised of close to 50 ships, seven submarines and 25,000 troops, mostly marines.
Now that the stars of this year's series of Love Island have re-entered the real world, you may assume that a life of luxury is what awaits them.

With all relationship dramas left in the villa and swathes of lucrative brand deals sitting in their DMs, it seems like any pre-fame problems must have disappeared.

However, all may not be as it seems, as their summer of love could have opened them up to a brand new set of challenges they are not equipped to deal with.

Over the past eight weeks, millions of reality TV lovers sat down to watch the contestants laugh, cry and 'crack on' every night, forming their own opinions.

Chartered psychologist Dr Audrey Tang has revealed to the MailOnline how quickly becoming one of the country's most talked-about figures may have an impact on the contestants' psyches.

Each Love Island contestant goes into the villa relatively unknown, with many working a 'normal' job like a paramedic, fishmonger or estate agent. But when the cameras start rolling and their faces are plastered on screens across the country, they are quickly thrust into the limelight. Pictured is Love Island 2022 star Ekin-Su Culculoglu posing for a picture with a fan who had waited outside the airport to greet her when she returned to the UK

Coming alongside an islander's newfound fan base will be an unwelcome legion of internet trolls. Trolling is defined in scientific literature as behaving in a deceptive, destructive or disruptive manner on the Internet with no apparent instrumental purpose (stock image)

LOVE ISLAND 2022: DUTY OF CARE Comprehensive psychological support

Training for all Islanders on the impacts of social media and handling potential negativity

Training for all Islanders on financial management

Detailed conversations with Islanders regarding the impact of participation on the show

A proactive aftercare package which extends support to all Islanders following their participation on the show

Guidance and advice on taking on management after the show Information courtesy of ITV Advertisement

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Dr Tang said: 'Any change, even if you're prepared for it takes getting used to when you begin to live it.

'For the islanders they will find that every little gesture or action has been scrutinised and commented on - for good and bad.

'The level of attention is huge and for most of us we cannot really imagine what that's like.

'As they come to terms with the attention, they may lose their ability to control their narrative with stories and social media comments pushing the opinions of everyone else onto them.'

Having their lives broadcast on national television also opens them up to both super fans and trolls, who may feel they have a connection to them.

Dr Tang added: 'We can get as invested in soap characters as our own relationships because empathy often means we experience an emotional reaction to their story without fully appreciating that it is not related to us personally.

'It is possible that a comment you make may be 'liked' by the account of the reality TV personality or others in that sphere, and you can get an even stronger false sense of connection.'

Overnight fame

Each Love Island contestant goes into the villa relatively unknown, with many working a 'normal' job like paramedic Paige Thorne, fishmonger Luca Bish or estate agent Andrew Le Page.

But when the cameras start rolling and their faces are plastered on screens across the country, they are quickly thrust into the limelight.

As they do not have access to their mobile phone, they do not know how many news articles or Twitter threads are dedicated to minor interactions they have.

Chartered psychologist Dr Audrey Tang (pictured) has revealed to the MailOnline how overnight fame may have an impact on Love Island contestants

They have no idea of public opinion, or what has been shown on the episodes, so when they finally exit the villa there is a lot to absorb.

In 2019, former islander Dani Dyer reflected on the trappings of overnight fame after the shocking death of Mike Thalassitis', who appeared on the show in 2017.

She said: 'It is tough going from literally being no one to then all of a sudden overnight coming out and being someone, it is difficult, you go from one extreme to the other and it's sad that it ended that way.'

This year, Love Island producers arranged for contestants to watch a video fronted by the show's executive producer and head of welfare before heading into the villa.

This includes details on how to cope being filmed 24 hours a day, dealing with social media trolling and adapting to life away from the show.

Registered mental health professionals are also engaged throughout the whole series - from pre-filming to aftercare.

Regardless of this support, the islanders are still unlikely to be prepared for the level of fame they are subjected to when they first get off the plane from Majorca.

Dr Tang said: 'When any experience ends, especially if it has been long and intense, and more so if it was largely positive, there is often a sense of loss.

Each Love Island contestant goes into the villa relatively unknown, with many working a 'normal' job like paramedic Paige Thorne, fishmonger Luca Bish (pictured with Gemma Owen) or estate agent Andrew Le Page

Why watching reality TV makes you nicer: Shows help to activate parts of the brain that make us feel more empathy It's been called cruel, exploitative and trashy  but watching reality TV makes you a nicer person, a study has found. Reality shows such as Big Brother and I'm a Celebrity develop our ability to feel 'vicarious embarrassment' for others, activating the parts of the brain that make us more empathetic. Those who watch reality TV are able to 'put themselves in another person's shoes' more easily, the study said. Read more here Advertisement

'Even if the experience had ups and downs, because you have focused on it for a long time, it has become your norm, you structure your day around it.

'And when the experience you are talking about is life changing - as being catapulted into not just broadcast media stardom, but social media as well  it can be extremely overwhelming.

'You are now dealing with being a household name as well as offers, contracts, and many people whom you have not had to work with before.'

The UCL-trained psychologist turned author added: 'On top of that, the consequences of your choices can also become larger because of how familiar the public is with you.

'You become news, so if you make a poor investment, trust someone you shouldn't, or perhaps even get caught saying something which was taken out of context, it can feel like everyone has an opinion.

'However, If you expected more interest and this isn't forthcoming, especially in the world of social media where 'likes' affect our feelings of self-worth, this can be hugely devastating.

'It can feel like rejection on a huge scale.

'When we feel rejected, this can cause us to spiral into thinking other negative thoughts about ourselves, for example I'm not talented, I'm not attractive, I'm not good at my job.

'This can lead us to feel depressed which in turn can mean our mental health takes a hit.'

There is also the risk that the new lifestyle will disappear just as quickly as it was handed out too.

Love Island 2018 star Alexandra Cane called the police after being harassed by a stalker in 2020. She also hit out at trolls who mocked her for taking the situation seriously

Dr Tang said: 'You get used to living a 'disposable' lifestyle, you enjoy the excitement and the interest in you and the parties while it lasts, and as it starts to ebb, you may find yourself chasing it rather than securing your basic living needs.

'The marketability of the Love Island contestants is on their looks, and looks will fade, adding an extra pressure in terms of maintaining them.'

A 2018 study by campaign group Level Up found that 40 per cent of women ages 18-34 reported they felt more conscious about their bodies after watching Love Island.

One in ten considered lip fillers, 8 per cent breast enhancement survey and 7 per cent Botox as a result of exposure to contestants who fit the beauty standard.

WHAT ARE PARASOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS? Donald Horton and Richard Wohl first identified 'parasocial relationships' in a 1956 paper, which suggests the creation of mass media sparked one-sided 'intimacy at a distance'. Parasocial relationships are one-sided relationships, where one person extends emotional energy, interest and time. And the other person is completely unaware of the other's existence. A 2004 study found that when someone's favourite television show is cancelled, the individual compares their feeling to that of losing a real friend. Advertisement

For the islanders themselves, these comparisons to others are only made more intense by the scrutiny of the public.

Dr Tang said: 'When you are scrutinised by everyone, you are likely to place an extra pressure on yourself to stay that way.

'Love Island is about coupling up, and the work offers that progress are hugely looks related, like being a model or influencer.

'Their looks become their currency and this can lead to unhealthy obsessions with what they look like, and they may feel it more if they are criticised for them.

'That's part of their sense of worth - literally, they are paid to look good.'

The contestants who are new to public life may also now feel a responsibility to become role models, which may not reflect who they truly are.

'That too can be problematic if that's not authentic to them as it's a huge amount of mental and emotional effort to be something you are not,' said Dr Tang.

Super fans

The bread and butter of reality television programmes like Love Island are the story lines that play out involving the contestants.

The access a dedicated viewer has to their personal lives can allow them to form an attachment to their favourite TV star, and become a super fan.

'As humans we connect with what we see, and our brains have trouble separating fantasy from reality when it comes to experiencing emotions,' said Dr Tang.

Psychologists describe the one-sided, distanced relationship a person has with a media figure as a 'parasocial relationship'.

According to researchers, individuals feel they 'know' the celebrity's persona by directly observing the way they are portrayed in the media and act in real life situations.

Olivia Buckland, who was cast in the second series of the dating show, tweeted asking how to obtain a restraining order in 2019 after being harassed online

Dr Tang said: 'Online relationships can trigger the same feelings as ones in real life, but they are really only a pseudo-connection because you do not "know" each other in the context of reality.

'This can cause many problems if we have been through what we are, or think we are, seeing - especially if it was a negative experience for us.

'So, for example, if an Islander behaved in a way that triggered an emotional memory in us which we found negative, we will have a tendency to project that onto the Islander rather than the real cause of the pain.'

A 2021 study from the National Taiwan Normal University also found that particularly invested viewers who binge-watch a TV series may experience feelings of loneliness and depression after it is over.

The parasocial relationships can also be damaging to the contestants themselves, as they can open them up to harassment or stalking.

Alexandra Cane, who starred in the 2018 series of Love Island, had to call the police after she was harassed by a stalker.

She is not alone, as Olivia Buckland from the second series of the dating show tweeted asking how to obtain a restraining order in 2019, after receiving online harassment.

Dr Tang said: 'While super fan behaviour may actually be pleasant and positive while it remains in balance, it can become problematic.

'For example, if the celebrity in question does something which the super fan perceives as a slight, or if in their eyes the celebrity can do no wrong.

'If someone is enamoured with a celebrity they may support and defend them blindly, and if others criticised them that person may jump to their defence.

'All these issues can have real life repercussions which can turn into violence, causing real hurt.'

Dr Tang said: 'While super fan behaviour may actually be pleasant and positive while it remains in balance, it can become problematic'. Left: Sophie Piper from the winter Love Island series of 2021, gets a picture with a fan. Right: Tommy Fury, from Love Island 2019, took pictures with fans during a club appearance after leaving the villa

Trolls

Coming alongside an islander's newfound fan base are an unwelcome legion of internet trolls.

Trolling is defined in scientific literature as behaving in a deceptive, destructive or disruptive manner on the Internet with no apparent instrumental purpose.

A 2020 study found that trolls have high self-esteem while displaying tendencies of sadism - the desire to hurt others.

As reality programmes can help viewers to turn a real person and their experiences into a character, Dr Tang believes they make it easier to remove the emotional consequences of belittling them.

She said: 'While audiences discuss and analyse - and produce cruel memes and hashtags about contestants - they may be forgetting they are talking not about characters written in a drama, but people who might see them.'

A troll may also be helping to satisfy their own feelings of inner turmoil when they gush vitriol onto a celebrity online.

The psychologist said: 'Misery loves company, and sometimes when we're in a bad mood we don't want to learn, we don't want to grow, we just want to be heard.

'Say something we've seen has triggered a negative feeling, we put our rant out there and when it is 'liked' we feel validated.

'Complaining is a social norm and some of us actually enjoy it - especially when it is about someone else - and it can make us feel part of something.'

During last year's series of Love Island, ITV bosses issued a statement urging viewers to 'think before they post' about contestants on social media.

This came after bombshell Chloe Burrows was subjected to death threats by trolls just three days after it began airing.

Love Island issued a statement urging people to 'think before they post' after Chloe Burrows was subjected to death threats just three days into the 2021 series

While widespread opinion blames the fact that trolls tend to write anonymously as the reason for their posts, in reality more are identifying themselves to increase their credibility and popularity.

Negative internet posts do tend to garner attention, which Dr Tang says is because 'our brain is hard-wired for negativity'.

She added: 'The negativity bias occurs because we often learn more from negative events, and we are also able to keep ourselves safer when we are aware of the dangers.

'Thus, we may be drawn more to read something negative in case we might learn something useful.'

The personalities from Love Island and the upcoming revival of Big Brother should therefore be prepared for psychological challenges that come with a fast influx of public attention.

Former islanders Kem Cetinay and Amber Gill host 'The Full Treatment', an ITV series about mental health and wellbeing, where they draw on their own experiences.

Dr Tang said: 'It is important that anyone catapulted into stardom makes sure they have a solid foundation of people they can trust.'

Former islanders Kem Cetinay and Amber Gill host 'The Full Treatment', an ITV series about mental health and wellbeing, where they draw on their own experiences
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Almost half of EU land is currently under a drought warning or worse because of a combination of heatwaves and a 'wide and persistent' lack of rain, experts have warned.

An interactive map reveals the countries most at risk, from France and western Germany to southern Greece, Romania and Croatia.

It has been put together using new data from the European Drought Observatory (EDO), which shows some 45 per cent of the bloc's territory under 'warning' conditions during the 10 days leading to July 20.

This is the second of three drought categories.

Worse still, 15 per cent of land has moved into the most severe 'alert' state, which means that plants and crops are being affected as the land continues to dry out.

Bone dry: Almost half of EU land is currently under a drought warning or worse because of a combination of heatwaves and a 'wide and persistent' lack of rain, experts have warned. A map (pictured) reveals the countries most at risk. Areas in orange are under 'warning' conditions, while 15 per cent of land has moved into the most severe 'alert' state (shown in red)

Last month, experts warned that the UK could face its worst drought since 1976 unless persistent rainfall arrives in August. Pictured is the Sutton Bingham Reservoir near Yeovil in Somerset

The Wessex Water Sutton Bingham Reservoir near Yeovil in Somerset pictured on Monday during another scorching day that saw water levels drop

France is now bracing for a fourth heatwave this summer as its worst drought on record left parched villages without safe drinking water and farmers warned of a looming milk shortage in the winter. Sunflowers are pictured suffering from a lack of water

French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has set up a crisis team to tackle a drought that has forced scores of villages to rely on water deliveries by truck. Pictured is the dried bed of the drought-affected Doubs River in Arcon, France

How Britain has been left parched by a lack of rain Some parts of the UK have seen barely a drop of rain since the start of July, spelling problems for farmers after the first half of 2022 was one of the driest on record. Reservoirs have been particularly low in Yorkshire, where five million customers have been warned of a possible hosepipe ban - while others in the Peak District have appeared to be down to little more than a trickle. Some rivers are also running dry, with water levels on the Waveney in Suffolk 'exceptionally low' at around 30 per cent of normal for the time of year, according to the Environment Agency. East Anglia as a whole has seen two-thirds of its average rainfall over the first half of the year - the driest January to June period since 1996, and the 11th driest since records began in 1836. Meanwhile Wales - normally the wettest part of Britain - also saw far less rainfall than normal between March and June, with the River Teifi in Ceredigion at record low levels. West Sussex, the Isle of Wight and the City of London all recorded just 0.1mm (0.003ins) of rain between July 1 and July 12, according to the Met Office. Across England, average rainfall in the first 12 days of the month was 5.1mm (0.2ins), less than a tenth of the average for the whole of July, 66.48mm (2.62ins). Advertisement

Last month, experts warned that the UK could face its worst drought since 1976 unless persistent rainfall arrives in August.

It follows months of below average rainfall for much of the country, particularly southern and eastern areas, and the unprecedented extreme 40C (104F) heat on Britain's hottest day in history on July 19.

The Met Office has also just issued a four-day amber warning for extreme temperatures in parts of England and Wales as a new heatwave looms.

The warning, for Thursday to Sunday, comes as the forecaster predicted 95F (35C) in places or even an 'isolated' 96.8F (36C).

More dry weather is also forecasted across many European countries in August and September, which the EDO warned would 'add concerns to the already very critical situation and, if confirmed, will exacerbate drought severity and the impacts on agriculture, energy and water supply.'

The new figures of 45 per cent and 15 per cent show things are continuing to get worse.

By comparison, the previous 10-day period saw 46 per cent of land at 'warning' level and 13 per cent in 'alert'.

'Widespread stress on vegetation' has hit the Italian lowlands, much of France, central Germany, eastern Hungary, Portugal and northern Spain, the EDO said.

France is now bracing for a fourth heatwave this summer as its worst drought on record left parched villages without safe drinking water and farmers warned of a looming milk shortage in the winter.

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne has set up a crisis team to tackle a drought that has forced scores of villages to rely on water deliveries by truck.

In Spain, water reserves are at all-time low of 40 per cent and have been falling at a rate of 1.5 per cent a week.

This is because of a combination of increased consumption and evaporation, according to the government.

The country has received less than half its expected rainfall for the time of year for the past three months.

In Britain, hosepipe bans are beginning to be imposed across the country.

South East Water has announced a ban from this Friday, affecting 2.2million customers in Kent and Sussex.

Last week, Southern Water became the first company to impose a hosepipe ban for customers in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight.

And 19million more people in other parts of England could soon be hit by further bans after Thames Water and South West Water both warned they might soon have to bring in restrictions  which would affect 15million customers in London and the Thames Valley, and around two million in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Somerset.

Meanwhile, farmers in Tuscany, the heart of Italy's wine industry, are battling to save as much as they can of this year's crop following drought and heatwaves.

Professor David Hill, former deputy chair of Natural England, blamed intensive farming practices for worsening droughts.

The map has been put together using new data from the European Drought Observatory, which shows some 45 per cent of the bloc's territory under 'warning' conditions during the 10 days leading to July 20

The map reveals the countries most at risk, from France and western Germany to southern Greece, Romania and Croatia

In Spain (pictured), water reserves are at all-time low of 40 per cent and have been falling at a rate of 1.5 per cent a week

The country has received less than half its expected rainfall for the time of year for the past three months. Pictured is the Valdecanas reservoir in Caceres, Spain, which is at 27 per cent capacity

Meanwhile, farmers in Tuscany (pictured), the heart of Italy's wine industry, are battling to save as much as they can of this year's crop following drought and heatwaves

He told Sky News that this had made the soil less able to retain water and therefore dry out or be washed away more easily.

'Where you have large scale agricultural intensification, you end up with simple ecosystems that cannot withstand shock,' Professor Hill added.

'Massive farms are far less resilient to environmental change than a mosaic of different types.'

The last time drought was declared in Britain was in 2018.

Other notable droughts took place in 1975 to 1976, 1989 to 1992, 1995 to 1996, 2004 to 2006 and 2010 to 2012.

A severe drought occurred from May 1975 to August 1976, when a dry winter in 1975-76 was followed by an intensely hot, dry summer.

Some droughts are short and intense  for example a hot, dry summer  while others are long and take time to develop over multiple seasons.

A view of Blackheath, London, at the weekend as parched parts of England endure dry conditions ahead of another heatwave

A pond has dried up and conkers have started to fall at a park in Wanstead, east London due to the current hot weather

The view from the air of the parched fields surrounding the village of Uploders, near Bridport in Dorset at the weekend

Hosepipe bans are already in place across Britain with more on the way. Other companies are threatening to introduce them
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An enormous snake skin found on the shore of the River Thames may have been left by a five-foot-long Boa constrictor.

The skin was found on Monday by Jason Sandy, a London-based mudlark  someone who scavenges in river mud for items of value.

It's possible it was shed by an abandoned or escaped Boa constrictor, a renowned species of non-venomous snake native to South America that is known for coiling around its prey and compressing it to death before swallowing it whole.

Luckily, even human babies are too big for the snake to swallow, and as a result fatal attacks on people are rare.

MailOnline has contacted the RSPCA and Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine about a conclusive identity of the snake that left the skin.

An enormous snake skin found on the shore of the River Thames in London may have been left by a five-foot-long Boa constrictor

The impressive skin was found by Jason Sandy, a London-based mudlark  someone who scavenges in river mud for items of value

Sandy, who posted the photos to Instagram on Tuesday, said that he left the snake skin where it was because 'it smelled really bad'

Sandy posted several photos of his astonishing finding to Instagram account (@jasonmudlark) on Tuesday.

'Yikes! Yesterday I spotted this large snake skin on the foreshore,' he said. 'I couldn't believe my eyes. A very large snake shed its skin, and it washed in with the tide.

'I felt like I was mudlarking along the Amazon River, not the Thames! I did look behind my back to make sure the snake wasn't lurking behind me.'

'I hope this snake skin isn't evidence of more snakes living along the Thames.'

In response to a user comment, Sandy said that he left the skin where it was because 'it smelled really bad'.

He also told MailOnline that the skin was about five feet in length and was found on the north side of the Thames near Hammersmith Bridge.

It's possible it was shed by the famous Boa constrictor, a large and heavy non-venomous snake that's native to South America

In response to a user comment, Sandy said that he left the skin where it was because 'it smelled really bad'. It was found on the north side of the Thames near Hammersmith Bridge

The Boa constrictor famously coils its own body around its unfortunate prey and compresses it to death before swallowing it whole

MailOnline has contacted the RSPCA and Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine about a conclusive identity of the snake that left the skin

Although native to South America, the heavy-bodied snake is frequently kept and bred in captivity and kept as pets in other parts of the world, including the UK.

Exotic Pets UK describes the Boa constrictor on its website: 'This species makes a great exotic pet, however a large enclosure is required when adult.'

But it's also been found in the wild on British soil  in 2020, a five-foot-long Boa constrictor was found near Barnes Bridge in Chiswick, not far from where Sandy was mudlarking on Monday.

It was slithering in the undergrowth along the Thames before it was captured by the RSPCA.

At the time, RSPCA animal collection officer Jade Guthrie, who rescued the reptile from the riverside, said it was likely abandoned, rather than being a stray reptile.

Today, the charity confirmed to MailOnline that the 10-year-old, called 'Ruby', was happily reunited with her owner.

She had been missing for two weeks and had escaped, likely due to becoming very active because of the hot weather.

Although native to South America, the heavy-bodied snake is frequently kept and bred in captivity and kept as pets in other parts of the world, including the UK

A five-foot long (1.5m) Boa constrictor was captured by the RSPCA in August 2020 after it was found slithering in the undergrowth near Barnes Bridge in Chiswick
A 'deeply disturbing' video claims to show a Tesla in full self-driving mode running over a child-size mannequin during a test by a safety campaign group.

The Dawn Project said the vehicle failed to detect the stationary dummy's presence in the road and hit it over and over again at an average speed of 25mph.

It claims that the experiment was carried out under 'controlled conditions' on a test track in California.

Tesla, which was founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, has been approached for a comment by MailOnline but is yet to respond to the video.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirmed that it 'currently has an open and active investigation of Tesla's Autopilot active driver assistance system'.

A spokesperson said this included the full self driving software and that the agency 'considers all relevant data and information that may assist its investigation'.

'Deeply disturbing': A video claims to show a Tesla in full self-driving mode running over a child-size mannequin during a test by a safety campaign group

The Dawn Project said the vehicle hit the stationary dummy over and over again at an average speed of 25mph and failed to detect its presence in the road

Tesla, which was founded by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, has been approached by MailOnline but is yet to respond to the video

TESLA AUTOPILOT: CAMERAS AND SENSORS LET THE CAR SEE THE ROAD Autopilot uses cameras, ultrasonic sensors and radar to see and sense the environment around the car. The sensor and camera suite provides drivers with an awareness of their surroundings that a driver alone would not otherwise have. A powerful onboard computer processes these inputs in a matter of milliseconds to help what the company say makes driving 'safer and less stressful.' Autopilot is a hands-on driver assistance system that is intended to be used only with a fully attentive driver. It does not turn a Tesla into a self-driving car nor does it make a car autonomous. Before enabling Autopilot, driver must agree to 'keep your hands on the steering wheel at all times' and to always 'maintain control and responsibility for your car.' Once engaged, if insufficient torque is applied, Autopilot will also deliver an escalating series of visual and audio warnings, reminding drivers to place their hands on the wheel. Any of Autopilot's features can be overridden at any time by steering or applying the brakes. Advertisement

The Dawn Project released the video as part of its launch of a nationwide public safety ad campaign highlighting the dangers of Tesla's full self-driving software.

'The deeply disturbing results of our safety test of Tesla full self-driving should be a rallying cry to action,' said Dan O'Dowd, founder of The Dawn Project.

'Elon Musk says Tesla's Full Self-Driving software is "amazing". It's not. It's a lethal threat to all Americans.'

He added: 'Over 100,000 Tesla drivers are already using the car's full self-driving mode on public roads, putting children at great risk in communities across the country.'

The safety test was carried out at the Willow Springs International Raceway and test track in Rosamond, California on June 21.

It was recorded and the footage shows a Tesla in full self-driving mode repeatedly running over the child-sized mannequin.

An NHTSA spokesperson said: 'NHTSA currently has an open and active investigation of Tesla's autopilot active driver assistance system, including the "full self-driving" software.

'As that engineering analysis is ongoing, NHTSA considers all relevant data and information that may assist the agency in its investigation.'

In February this year, Tesla recalled nearly 54,000 cars and SUVs because their full self-driving software was found to let them roll through stop signs without coming to a complete halt.

The over-the-internet software update, which was being tested by a number of drivers, allowed the vehicles to go through junctions with a stop sign at up to 5.6 miles per hour.

Documents shared by US safety regulators said Tesla had agreed to the recall after two meetings with officials from NHTSA.

Tesla said at the time that it was not aware of any crashes or injuries caused by the feature, and that there had been no warranty claims as a result of issues with the rolling start update.

The recall covered Model S sedans and X SUVs from 2016 to 2022, as well as 2017 to 2022 Model 3 sedans and 2020 to 2022 Model Y SUVs.

The Dawn Project released the video as part of its launch of a nationwide public safety ad campaign highlighting the dangers of Tesla's full self-driving software

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirmed that it 'currently has an open and active investigation of Tesla's Autopilot active driver assistance system'

The safety test was carried out at the Willow Springs International Raceway and test track in Rosamond, California on June 21

Beta testing of the full self-driving software was carried out by selected Tesla drivers.

However, the cars cannot drive themselves and drivers must be ready to take action at all times, the company says.

Safety advocates complain that Tesla should not be allowed to test the vehicles on public roads with untrained drivers, and that the Tesla software can malfunction, exposing other motorists and pedestrians to danger.

Most car companies with similar software test with trained human safety drivers.

In November last year, the NHTSA said it was looking into a complaint from a Tesla driver that the full self-driving software caused a crash.

It was recorded and the footage shows a Tesla in full self-driving mode repeatedly running over the child-sized mannequin

The driver said their Model Y went into the wrong lane and was hit by another vehicle. The SUV gave the driver an alert halfway through the turn and the driver tried to turn the wheel to avoid other traffic, according to the complaint.

But the car took control and 'forced itself into the incorrect lane,' the driver reported.

No one was hurt in the crash on November 3 in Brea, California, according to the complaint.

In December, Tesla agreed to update its less sophisticated autopilot driver-assist system after the NHTSA opened an investigation.

The company agreed to stop allowing video games to be played on centre touch screens while its vehicles are moving.

The agency is also investigating why Teslas on autopilot have repeatedly crashed into emergency vehicles parked on roads.
HYDERABAD: Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao has convened an emergency Cabinet meeting on Thursday at Pragathi Bhavan to take stock of the financial situation of the government in the wake of the Centre imposing restrictions on market borrowings and on mobilising loans through corporations by giving bank guarantees.

Other issues on the agenda was lowering the Aasara pensions age cap to 57 years against 65 years now, sanctioning of new ration cards and Dalit Bandhu implementation etc. The government claims that the Centre has imposed Rs 19,000 crore cuts on market borrowings this year.

In the Budget 2022-23, the government proposed to raise Rs 15,500 crore through sale of land parcels and sale of Rajiv Swagruha flats. The government auctioned Rajiv Swagruha flats in Hyderabad, Khammam, Karimnagar and Mahbubnagar in June and July but is yet to receive full payment from the buyers as there is a provision to pay in instalments.

The government earned Rs 137 crore through auction of lands under HMDA limits in June this year.

The government needs to mobilise funds for Dalit Bandhu as the Chief Minister has announced to extend the scheme to 100 families each in 118 Assembly constituencies last year. The beneficiaries of the previous fiscal are yet to be covered fully.

For this fiscal Dalit Bandhu requires Rs 20,000 crore to cover two lakh families, for which a Rs 17,700 crore budgetary allocation was made but no funds were released from April to July. Except selling government land parcels in HMDA limits and in other districts, the government has no other option.

Commercial taxes, excise, stamps and registrations and transport departments remain the major revenue earning sources, but the state government has already raised liquor prices, stamps and registration charges twice last year and transport taxes last year and any further increases are politically imprudent in the shadow off the Assembly elections.

The government also raised TSRTC fares and power tariffs last year. VAT on petrol, diesel and liquor is among the highest in the country and the government has no scope to raise it further which would provide ammunition to Opposition parties.

The Munugode Assemby bypoll is round the corner and the government cannot take any decision hiking existing taxes and charges at least until next five or six months, when bypoll will be over, according to political analysts.
Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly joined Chelsea in the race to sign Leicester defender Wesley Fofana.

The Blues have had two bids rejected for the 21-year-old - the most recent of which was an offer for 70million.

French outlet Le Parisien though have reported that PSG could scupper Chelsea's plans to sign the centre-back.

Chelsea could face competition to sign Leicester defender Wesley Fofana during the window

Paris Saint-Germain are considering a move for the 21-year-old Frenchman from Leicester

Chelsea have already missed out on a number of players this summer, including another centre-back in Jules Kounde, who opted to join Barcelona from Sevilla.

As the Blues have found out, it could take a mammoth bid for the Ligue 1 champions to convince Leicester to sell their star defender.

Brendan Rodgers insisted three times last week that the defender was not for sale.

The Leicester boss has held talks with the French U21 international, in an attempt to convince the player to stay at the King Power Stadium.

The Foxes rejected an initial bid of 60m for Fofana, before they turned down a second proposal worth 70m on Friday.

Thomas Tuchel is keen to bring in another centre-back by the end of the transfer window

Chelsea have already missed out on the signing of Jules Kounde who decided to join Barcelona

Sportsmail previously reported that there are internal concerns at Leicester a bid in excess of the 80m Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire, would prove too good to turn down.

Leicester need to sell players this summer to fund Rodgers' spending plans, and their next set of accounts is set to show a significant loss.

Their struggle to shift fringe players has left them more vulnerable to approaches for star names and the club have turned down two bids  the second of about 40m  for attacking midfielder James Maddison, while they are willing to sell Youri Tielemans, who has entered the final 12 months of his contract.

At PSG, Fofana would compete with the likes of Presnel Kimpembe (pictured) if he were to join

Newcastle have also enquired about winger Harvey Barnes, valued in excess of 60m.

Strengthening their defence is Chelsea's current priority after losing Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen this summer.

The club signed Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli, and just last week brought in Marc Cucurella from Brighton.

At PSG, Fofana would have to compete with the likes of Presnel Kimpembe, Marquinhos, and Sergio Ramos for a starting position.
Sit back and enjoy a ride on Europe's highest railway courtesy of an eye-opening POV video.

The footage was filmed via a camera attached to the front of a cogwheel train on the Jungfrau Railway in Switzerland's Bernese Alps, showing the thrilling ascent from Kleine Scheidegg train station to Jungfraujoch - which, at 3,454m (11,332ft) above sea level, is Europe's highest train station.

A long stretch of the nine-kilometre (5.8 miles) line tunnels through the North Face of the Eiger mountain, with Jungfraujoch station buried beneath the peaks of Jungfrau and Monch.

A new video shows the route taken by Europe's highest railway, the Jungfrau Railway (pictured) in Switzerland's Bernese Alps

The video was filmed via a camera attached to the front of a cogwheel train on the Jungfrau Railway. It begins with the train stationary at Kleine Scheidegg station (above)

A long stretch of the line tunnels through the North Face of the Eiger mountain (above)

The video begins with the train ground to a halt at Kleine Scheidegg station, which sits at 2,061m (6,762ft) above sea level.

This is Europe's highest railway hub - many passengers take trains here from the villages of Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen to experience the Jungfrau Railway.

The Jungfrau Railway then weaves its way through the snow-covered mountains, passing through a tunnel before arriving at Eigergletscher station - home to the railway's workshop - which is the final stop before the train enters the Jungfrau tunnel.

The footage shows the train weaving its way through the snow-covered mountains

Above is Eigergletscher station, the train's final stop before entering the Jungfrau tunnel

Pictured above is the entrance to the Jungfrau tunnel

Once the railway's traffic lights turn green, the train carries on through more snowy terrain before entering the darkness of the tunnel, where it passes by the Eigerwand station, which has been closed to the public since 2016.

The video shows the train stopping at Eismeer station, where passengers get off to take in views of the glacier Ischmeer from observation windows that have been built into the face of the mountain.

Finally, the footage fades out as swarms of travellers disembark the train after it arrives at Jungfraujoch.

Most of these passengers will hop into the ultrafast lift that takes them to the 'Sphinx' observatory on the rocky summit above the station, where they'll find indoor and outdoor viewing platforms.

The video shows the train stopping at Eismeer station (above), where passengers get off and take in views from the observation windows that have been built into the face of the mountain

The footage fades out at Jungfraujoch, Europe's highest train station, where swarms of travellers disembark

From the station, they can also walk along a tunnel to the 'Top of Europe' building complex, which overlooks the Aletsch Glacier.

At the 'Top of Europe', there's a Lindt chocolate shop for those with a sweet tooth, or for something more substantial, visitors can head to 'Restaurant Crystal' for some 'authentic Swiss' cuisine.

Before visitors return to Jungfraujoch, they can explore the complex's 'Ice Palace' - a series of ice-covered walkways with ice sculptures of creatures such as eagles, penguins or bears. 'Mountain guides created the aisles and halls in the 1930s with picks and saws,' the website reveals.

From Jungfraujoch station, passengers can ascend a rapid lift to the viewing platforms on the 'Sphinx' observation deck (pictured) overhead

Construction on the railway, which is electrified, began in 1896, and it finally opened to the public in 1912.

The journey takes around 30 minutes, with the route running 365 days a year and attracting thousands of visitors annually. Tripadvisor user 'RVJ10', who travelled on the railway this March, wrote: 'Wow, what an experience - it is spectacular and the views [are] breathtaking.'

A return ticket from Grindelwald to Jungfraujoch costs around 92. For more information visit www.jungfrau.ch.
Author and former model Sandra Howard checks in to our travel Q and A

This week former model and author Sandra Howard checks into our travel Q&A.

She reveals the best foreign trip she went on when her husband Michael Howard was a cabinet minister, her most memorable modelling assignment, and more...

EARLIEST HOLIDAY MEMORY?

Travelling to Cape Town from Bulawayo as a child in the late 1940s. Halfway there the train broke down and I have a terrifying memory of baboons crawling all over the carriage.

MOST MEMORABLE MODELLING ASSIGNMENT?

Kenya to do a photoshoot for a women's magazine in 1970. You would never spend that long on a modelling trip now. It would be far too expensive.

BEST FOREIGN TRIP WHEN YOUR HUSBAND MICHAEL WAS A CABINET MINISTER?

Sandra admits that she 'fell in love' with Bolivia when she first visited. Above is the Bolivian city of La Paz

Visiting Bolivia when he was Home Secretary because he wanted to stop the flow of drugs to Britain.

I fell in love with the country, saw the women in their bowler hats and sampled coca tea  it's made from a different leaf from cocaine, but my beloved still wouldn't drink it.

FAVOURITE DESTINATION?

Grenada is one of Sandra's favourite destinations for its 'lovely, hilly and green' landscape. Above is the country's Grand Etang National Park

Grenada because it's so lovely, hilly and green and has beautiful beaches. The people are so friendly too.

HOLIDAY FROM HELL?

Mid-Wales when the children were young. It poured with rain and we sat on the beach in anoraks.

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP?

Don't wear much make-up because it will look tired by the end of a flight.
Australian celebrities have paid tribute to Olivia Newton-John following her death aged 73 after a brave and extraordinarily public decades-long battle with cancer.

The Grease star passed away peacefully at her home in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends following a lengthy battle with breast cancer.

Kylie Minogue paid tribute to the iconic actress by sharing a throwback photo of herself and Olivia and writing: 'Since I was ten years old, I have loved and looked up to Olivia Newton John. And, I always will.'

Australian stars including Kylie Minogue, Delta Goodrem and Bindi Irwin have paid a heartfelt tribute to Olivia Newton-John (pictured) after the Grease star passed away aged 73 following a long breast cancer battle

'She was and always will be, an inspiration to me in so many, many ways. My deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. x ONJ4EVER.'

Delta Goodrem also posted a sweet photo of herself embracing Olivia and said: 'The whole world will feel this heartbreak today because the entire world felt Olivia's unmatched light.'

'A force for good. A force of nature. Strong and kind. my mentor, my friend, my inspiration, someone who always guided me she was always there for me. Family to me.'

'I don't have all the words I would like to say today but I hope everyone will join in celebrating our beloved Olivia, her heart, soul, talent, courage, grace I love you forever,' Delta said.

Delta Goodrem posted a sweet photo of herself embracing Olivia and said: 'The whole world will feel this heartbreak today because the entire world felt Olivia's unmatched light'

Bindi Irwin also shared a photo of herself holding the iconic actress' hand during a charity event and wrote: 'One of the kindest and most wonderful souls the world has ever known'

Bindi Irwin shared a photo of herself holding the iconic actress' hand during a charity event and wrote: 'One of the kindest and most wonderful souls the world has ever known.'

Meanwhile, Hugh Jackman wrote: 'I'm devastated to hear the news that @therealonj has passed away. One of the great privileges of my life was getting to know her. Not only was she one of the most talented people I've known  she was one of the most open hearted, generous and funny.'

'She was a one of kind spirit. It's no secret Olivia was my first crush. I kissed her (poster) every night before bed. Her legacy will only grow stronger in the years to come. A fighter for healing from cancer that knows no bounds. I love you Olivia.'

Nicole Kidman and her husband Keith Urban also shared a tribute to Olivia, writing on Instagram: 'Livvie brought the most divine light into the world, so much love, joy, inspiration and kindness... and we will always be hopelessly devoted to you'

Nicole Kidman and her husband Keith Urban also shared a tribute to Olivia, writing on Instagram: 'Livvie brought the most divine light into the world, so much love, joy, inspiration and kindness... and we will always be hopelessly devoted to you.'

Studio 10 reporter Angela Bishop also said: 'Dame Olivia Newton-John has passed away peacefully at her ranch in Southern California at the age of 73.'

'She will be remembered forever for her incredible musical legacy and her tireless work helping improve the treatment of others with breast cancer. Vale Olivia.'

Today Extra host David Campbell added: 'Utterly devastated this morning. Everyone adored Olivia. There was a reason for this. She was exactly who you thought she was and more. So kind, so incredibly talented. I always pinched myself when I sang with her. My heart goes out to Chloe and John.'

Today Extra host David Campbell said: 'Everyone adored Olivia. There was a reason for this. She was exactly who you thought she was and more. So kind, so incredibly talented'

'Love and Light ONJ. You were a true icon and I absolutely adored you,' Rebel Wilson also said.

Jessica Rowe wrote: 'Heartbroken to hear the news about Olivia Newton John. When I was 8 years old I wanted to be her and own a pair of those black pants when I saw Olivia in Grease.'

'I remember staging a roller skating 'show' of Xanadu with my friends. Later I wore a 'physical' headband & ripped sloppy joe. And as a grown up I was starstruck interviewing her along with my pals on Studio 10. What an extraordinary woman- who touched so many lives. Vale Olivia.'

Magda Szubanski Tweeted: 'Vale Olivia Newton-John. What a sad sad day. Thank you for all you gave us. Your beautiful soul will be so missed. My deepest condolences to John, Chloe, Gregg and Rod. Rest In Peace darling Olivia.I Honestly Love You.'

Meanwhile, Darren Hayes wrote: 'Oh dear, sweet, magical, eternal Olivia. You gave so much to this world and to this little boy who saw acceptance in your twinkling eyes and glittering world. You made us all feel held by the sweetness of your voice and the capacity of your heart. I hope you are in Xanadu.'

Kylie Minogue paid tribute to the iconic actress by sharing a throwback photo of herself and Olivia and writing: 'Since I was ten years old, I have loved and looked up to Olivia Newton John. And, I always will'

Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said: 'This is really sad news. Really sad. A great Australian woman. And a great advocate for global cancer research. Taken from her family far too early. Vale Olivia.'

Malcolm Turnbull also said: 'Thank you Olivia Newton-John for your remarkable life - you lit up our lives with music and dance and you saved so many lives with your passionate and advocacy for cancer research and treatment.'

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet Tweeted: 'From Grease to Xanadu, to the Sydney Olympics, a 4 time Grammy award winner, a tireless and courageous ambassador for never giving up.

'For 30 years she fought cancer and inspired people around the world with her courage. Forever an icon. Vale Dame Olivia Newton John.'

Hugh Jackman wrote: 'I'm devastated to hear the news that @therealonj has passed away. One of the great privileges of my life was getting to know her. Not only was she one of the most talented people I've known  she was one of the most open hearted, generous and funny'

Many celebrities also offered their condolences to Olivia's daughter Chloe Lattanzi, with Bachelorette star Georgia Love, writing: 'I'm so sorry Chloe.'

'Oh god Chloe I'm so sorry. What an honor to have seen you and your Mumma together and how much you made each other smile. Thinking of you and your beautiful family. She'll always be with you angel,' Angie Kent also said.

Rhonda Burchmore wrote: 'Sending so much love to you beautiful Chloe - Your mumma fought so hard and how very blessed she was to have a beautiful daughter like you.'

'Love and Light ONJ. You were a true icon and I absolutely adored you,' Rebel Wilson also said

Among the first to pay tribute to Olivia following her death on Monday was John Travolta, her co-star in Grease - the 1978 movie that catapulted her career.

'My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible. I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again.

'Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever! Your Danny, your John!' he said in an Instagram post.

John Travolta was among the first to pay tribute to Newton-John on Instagram

Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta in the iconic 1978 movie Grease that catapulted her career

Olivia's husband John Easterling announced her death on her Facebook page.

'Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends.

'We ask that everyone please respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time.

'Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer.

'Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer,' he said.

Newton-John's husband announced her death on her Facebook page on Monday. She was 73

Her husband John grew medicinal cannabis for Olivia on their ranch in the U.S to 'help with her symptoms'.

Olivia previously said it is a 'healing plant' and added: 'Medicinal cannabis is something that should be available to everyone who is going through a chronic illness or pain'.

Olivia, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2017 and twice before in 1992 and 2013, has spent years lobbying the Australian government to approve the use of medicinal cannabis for cancer patients.

'It really is a magical miracle plant.'

The Olivia Newton-John foundation aims to help fellow cancer sufferers.
Jenna Dewan was every inch the doting mom as she was spotted spending time with her daughter Everly on Sunday in Los Angeles.

The 41-year-old actress was pictured after enjoying a day at the beach with her little one, nine, and donned a plunging black swimsuit which she covered up with a black and white Anine Bing sarong that showed off her toned legs.

The Superman & Lois star accessorized the bohemian beach look with a wide-brim straw hat and a large woven basket purse slung across her shoulder.

Mommy and me time: Jenna Dewan, 41, was every inch the doting mom as she was spotted spending time with her daughter Everly, nine, on Sunday

The Connecticut native finalized her look with a pair of comfortable white Birkenstock sandals.

She looked fresh-faced for the sunny outing, and sported a pair of gold hoops for the day.

Her long brunette tresses were styled into relaxed beach waves, and cascaded down her shoulders.

Beach day: The actress was pictured after enjoying a day at the beach, and donned a plunging black swimsuit which she covered up with a black and white Anine Bing sarong

Chic: The Superman & Lois star accessorized the bohemian beach look with a wide-brim straw hat and a large woven basket purse slung across her shoulder

The mom-of-two had her hands full, carrying a large blue and green watering can toy for her daughter.

Meanwhile Everly - whom Dewan shares with ex husband Channing Tatum, 42 - looked cute in a pink top and had on a matching pink bag and necklace.

Jenna also took to her Stories to share some snaps of her and Everly enjoying a beach popsicle.

She then shared an adorable video of her playing charades at the beach while her daughter recorded.

Charades: She also shared an adorable video of her playing charades at the beach while her daughter recorded

Having fun: She gave a spirited performance

Cute: Jenna then took to her Stories to share some snaps of her and Everly - whom she shares with ex husband Channing Tatum, 42 - enjoying a beach popsicle

'Evie had us playing dance charades on the beach yesterday. Any guesses what I am? (If you chose a scientist researching aliens you are right)' she wrote in the caption.'

Aside from Everly, Jenna is also a mom to son Callum Kazee, two, whom she shares with actor fiance Steve Kazee, 46.

Jenna and Steve began dating in October 2018 and announced that they were expecting their first child together in September 2019.

The pair revealed that they were engaged in February 2020 after Steve popped the question at Callum's baby shower.

Mom-of-two: Aside from Everly, Jenna is also a mom to son Callum Kazee, two, whom she shares with actor fiance Steve Kazee, 46

Engaged: The pair revealed that they were engaged in February 2020 after Steve popped the question at Callum's baby shower; Pictured 2020

The brunette beauty was previously married to Magic Mike actor Channing. The pair tied the knot in 2009 and went on to welcome their daughter in 2013.

The couple announced their split in 2018 after nine years of marriage.

They finalized the divorce the following year and reached a custody deal over Everly in 2020.

The performer spoke about co-parenting with Tatum during an interview with Romper, where she expressed that she valued the well-being of her daughter above all else.

'I think that communication is key, always. Keeping all your communications elevated and in a place of goodwill, and knowing that situations might change, but making sure the love for your child stays there,' she stated.
Bindi Irwin paid a touching tribute to the late Olivia Newton-John on Tuesday.

The Wildlife Warrior, 24, shared a photo of herself walking hand-in-hand with the beloved Grease actress as they participated in a charity run.

'One of the kindest and most wonderful souls the world has ever known,' Bindi captioned the picture on Instagram.

Bindi Irwin, 24, (right) paid a touching tribute to the late Olivia Newton-John (left) on Tuesday. The photo showed them attending the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre's 'Wellness Walk and Research Run' in Melbourne on September 11, 2016

The photo showed the Aussie icons in high-spirits as they attended the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre's 'Wellness Walk and Research Run' in Melbourne on September 11, 2016, along with Bindi's husband Chandler Powell.

Earlier that year, Olivia had paid a special tribute to Bindi's father Steve Irwin when she arrived at his annual Gala Dinner, held in Los Angeles for the first time, wrapped in a khaki scarf.

Bindi continued to support Olivia during her battle with breast cancer when the star was diagnosed for a third time in 2017.

Earlier that year, Olivia had paid a special tribute to Bindi's father Steve Irwin when she arrived at his annual Gala Dinner, held in Los Angeles for the first time, wrapped in a khaki scarf

The conservationist attended Olivia's Cancer Wellness & Research Centre Gala in Melbourne in September of that year just weeks before she wished her long-time friend a happy 69th birthday.

Bindi shared a picture of herself and Chandler, 25, to Instagram with the caption: 'I hope your birthday was beautiful [Olivia]. Love you so much. Your strength and grace inspires the world.'

The friendship between the two came as no surprise given Olivia's strong love and connection to wildlife and sustainability.

Bindi continued to support Olivia during her battle with breast cancer when the star was diagnosed for a third time in 2017. (Pictured with brother Robert Irwin, left, and mother Terry, middle left)

She spoke with Women's Weekly in 2021 about how nature has impacted and shaped her life, saying: 'It's very difficult these days to get away from the ugly and the bad, but nature balances you, I feel, because we are part of that. We are part of the natural kingdom.

'As humans, we think we're separate but we're not. [My daughter] Chloe's father [Matt Lattanzi] once said to me that nature was his church and I thought that was a beautiful description.'

Olivia grew up on the green and leafy University of Melbourne campus where her father Brinley Newton-John worked.

The friendship between the two came as no surprise given Olivia's strong love and connection to wildlife and sustainability. (Pictured alongside John Travolta in the iconic 1978 movie Grease which catapulted her career)

She spoke with Women's Weekly in 2021 about how nature has impacted and shaped her life, saying: 'It's very difficult these days to get away from the ugly and the bad, but nature balances you, I feel, because we are part of that. We are part of the natural kingdom'

She went on to say her mother was always passionate about nature and sustainability, and so her love for wildlife traced back to her childhood.

'Nothing was wasted  we recycled and re-used everything. I heard this all my life and it is important to me. I really value nature  above just about everything,' she said.

Olivia died peacefully at the age of 73 in her home in Southern California on Monday morning, surrounded by family and friends.

It came after a brave and extraordinarily public decades-long battle with cancer in which she was diagnosed three times in 1992, 2013 and, for a final time, in 2017.

Olivia died peacefully at her home in Southern California on Monday morning, surrounded by family and friends. (Pictured just days before her death with husband John Easterling)
Former Married At First Sight star Martha Kalifatidis has been seen for the first time since she was left bedridden for weeks after catching a viral infection in Europe.

The 34-year-old influencer looked pale and frail as she lent on her fiance Michael Brunelli for support as they paid a visit to the Northland shopping centre in their hometown of Melbourne.

The couple recently returned to Australia after Martha's illness forced the couple to cut their trip short.

Former Married At First Sight star Martha Kalifatidis has been seen for the first time since she was left bedridden for weeks after catching a viral infection in Europe

The former makeup artist rugged up against the winter chill in a beige jumper and grey sweatpants and wore a pair of cosy Ugg boots on her feet.

Makeup free, she shielded her face with a navy cap and tied her dark locks into a low ponytail.

Martha kept up her fluids on the outing, clutching a water bottle as she walked around.

The 34-year-old influencer looked pale and frail as she lent on her fiance Michael Brunelli for support as they paid a visit to the Northland shopping centre in their hometown of Melbourne

Makeup free, she shielded her face with a navy cap and tied her dark locks into a low ponytail

The former makeup artist rugged up against the winter chill in a beige jumper and grey sweatpants and wore a pair of cosy Ugg boots on her feet

The couple had been holidaying in Europe for three months when they had to cut their trip short after Martha fell ill with a mystery illness.

Last month, Michael revealed his partner had been suffering from a viral infection and Martha broke her silence shortly after.

'Hi, everyone. I know I've been quiet on here. I've been bedridden for a few weeks, but I'm finally home and getting the care I need,' Martha wrote on Instagram at the time.

The couple had been holidaying in Europe for three months when they had to cut their trip short after Martha fell ill with a mystery illness

Last month, Michael revealed his partner had been suffering from a viral infection

Martha broke her silence shortly after, telling her fans 'Hi, everyone. I know I've been quiet on here. I've been bedridden for a few weeks, but I'm finally home and getting the care I need'

She continued: 'I'll be back soon. Thanks for all the messages. Sorry I haven't got back to anyone. I really do appreciate the support though.'

Michael revealed his partner was unwell after fans noticed she had been uncharacteristically silent on Instagram.

He posted a photo on his Stories of himself holding the influencer's hand as she lay in bed next to a half-eaten sandwich.

'I just want to say a big thank you to everyone who has reached out and messaged us asking about Martha,' he wrote.

'She's been offline and unwell with a viral infection. It's taken a toll on her energy levels, but she's okay and on the mend.'

While they were overseas, the pair visited Italy, the UK, and Turkey.
Bill Bailey has raised over 100,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support in memory of his friend and fellow comedian Sean Lock.

On Monday, the comic, 57, finished a 100-mile walk for the charity alongside Lee Mack and Sean's loved ones, and said he's been 'moved' by the generosity of the public who came out to support him during the trek.

The walk started in Bude, Cornwall on August 3 and finished in Combe Martin, Devon sticking to the beautiful coast path.

Achievement: Bill Bailey has raised over 100,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support in memory of his friend and fellow comedian Sean Lock after walking 100 miles from Devon to Cornwall

Bailey said that many people had approached the group to offer money and kind words, and he has been overwhelmed by the goodwill and support.

'We're all a bit done in,' he said.

'I have just been knocked out by the number of people who have come up to me, handed me money in the street just offering donations.

Tribute: The comic said he moved by the generosity of people after raising the money in memory of his friend and fellow comedian Sean Lock, who died last year after battling cancer

Trek: Bill's journey started in Bude, Cornwall on August 3 and finished in Combe Martin, Devon sticking to the beautiful coast path

'Talking to people, hearing their stories of how cancer has been in their lives.

'How they've lost loved ones, it's been quite moving.'

Sean, known for his surreal content and deadpan style, starred as a team captain on Jimmy Carr's popular Channel 4 comedy panel show and its spin-off 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown.

The comic died in August 2021 from cancer and his passing lead to a widespread outpouring of grief in the comic world.

Tribute: Bailey carried a wallet with a picture of Sean Lock - whom the walk was in memory of - following his death last year

Toast: Bailey finished the 100-mile trek with a well-deserved pint in Devon, adding he's been 'moved' by the public's generosity

Carr led the tributes, saying it was 'brutal news' and that he was 'laughing and crying' while watching clips of Lock - while Lee Mack, called him a 'true original both in comedy and life'.

Father-of-three Lock, who had two daughters and one son with his wife Anoushka, appeared on Have I Got News for You, QI, and They Think It's All Over - and also wrote and starred in the popular BBC sitcom 15 Storeys High.

Jon Richardson, Lock's fellow captain on 8 Out Of Ten Cats, praised his 'incredible comic brain'; Susie Dent from the Countdown version described him as an 'exceptional man'; Ricky Gervais said he was 'one of the funniest, most influential comedians of a generation'; and Alan Davies said Lock was 'funny on stage, hilarious off'.

Lock's agent labelled the Woking-born star as 'one of Britain's finest comedians', saying his 'boundless creativity, lightning wit and the absurdist brilliance of his work, marked him out as a unique voice in British comedy'.

Sad news: Sean passed away last year after battling cancer, and was best known for starring on 8 Out Of 10 Cats and its Countdown-themed spin-off (pictured in 2017)

It is not known what form of a cancer Sean battled, but he previously made a full recovery from skin cancer which he blamed on over-exposure to the sun while working on building sites before he became a comedian.

He previously credited a one-night stand in the 1990s with saving his life, after the woman he was with spotted a black and misshapen patch of skin on his back, which he had removed in hospital and it was diagnosed as cancer.

Fellow comedian Harry Hill revealed Lock had spent time in a hospice, telling the Guardian: 'At his best, Sean reminded us all what we loved about a great gag and why we got into comedy in the first place.

'That's why he was so often called 'the comedian's comedian'. He took his illness in typically dry style. I heard he was in a hospice for a bit of a rest. I called him up. 'Wow!' I said. 'A hospice, what's that like?' 'It's OK,' he said ' and the sex is amazing'.'
Emmerdale bosses have revealed that the village will be rocked by a deadly storm to celebrate the soap's 50th Anniversary in October.

In the show's most daring stunt yet, viewers will be gripped as they see the disaster leave a 'trail of destruction,' with many of the soap's most beloved characters left in 'mortal peril.'

Producer Kate Brooks also confirmed that the 50th Anniversary will see the return of several familiar faces to the Dales, including Danny Miller (Aaron Dingle), Elizabeth Estensen (Diane Sugden) and Amy Walsh (Tracy Metcalfe).

Bombshell! Emmerdale bosses have revealed that the village will be rocked by a deadly storm to celebrate the soap's 50th Anniversary in October

Speaking to The Mirror about the explosive scenes, Kate said: ' 'A massive storm will rip through the village and leave a trail of destruction in its wake. Some of our best-loved villagers will be in peril. The village will literally never be the same again.

'We also have the return of some very familiar faces to the Dales. Diane, Aaron and Tracy will all be making a re-appearance, albeit on a temporary basis, but at the heart of some really big stories.'

Danny bid farewell to Emmerdale last year after 13 years as Aaron Dingle, opting to leave the village after his boyfriend Ben Tucker's (Simon Lennon) death.

Scary: Hearkening back to a historic storyling when the village was hit by a tornado, viewers will be gripped as they see the disaster leave a 'trail of destruction'

They're back! Producer Kate Brooks also confirmed that the 50th Anniversary will see the return of several familiar faces including Danny Miller (left) and Amy Walsh (right)

Meanwhile Amy left the village in 2021 when she went on maternity leave, with her character Tracy accepting a new job in Nottingham.

This isn't the first time Emmerdale has been hit by disaster, after a tornado in 2003 killed the beloved Tricia Dingle, and a plane crash in 1993 killed off four major characters.

Despite comparisons to the Noughties tragedy - nicknamed Emmer-gale - Kate insisted that this disaster will be different.

Game-changer! This isn't the first time Emmerdale has been hit by disaster, after a tornado in 2003 killed the beloved Tricia Dingle, and a plane crash in 1993 killed off four major characters

She added: 'It's in daytime, so you can actually see what's happening. It affects the entire village  and some people are seriously injured, so I think it will feel really different.'

Kate went onto hint that bosses haven't ruled out a murder during their Anniversary month, which will kick off with Kim Tate overhearing her fiancee Will Taylor declaring his love for another woman on their wedding day.

Recent weeks have also seen Leyla Harding struggling with her cocaine addiction, with her husband Liam discovering her unconscious following an overdose, while Marlon Dingle has struggled with a lengthy recovery after suffering a stroke.

ITV have also announced that they will air a special documentary to mark Emmerdale's 50th birthday, featuring classic clips looking back at some of the soap's most heart-warming, emotional and dramatic moments.

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.
Coleen Rooney reporrtedly belted out Sweet Caroline at an afterparty with Westlife as she enjoyed her first night out since her Wagatha Christie trial win on Saturday.

According to The Mirror, the WAG, 36, sang Neil Diamond's much-loved tune while dancing, and drank Guinness, as she headed backstage after the Irish group's Wembley Stadium show on Saturday.

She appeared to be letting her down down and is said to have partied until 3am after her Wagatha Christie victory over Rebekah Vardy two weeks ago.

Fun: Coleen Rooney reporrtedly belted out Sweet Caroline at an afterparty with Westlife as she enjoyed her first night out since her Wagatha Christie trial win on Saturday (pictured with Westlife)

A fellow guest told publication : 'Coleen was on top form and was clearly letting her hair down after a very testing few months.

'When Sweet Caroline started up, she was singing and dancing along with gusto as well as getting stuck into the Guinness and the champers too.'

Another insider told the publication: 'Westlife rolled out the red carpet for Coleen and her pals. They partied into the night, joining in a Westlife singsong and danced away. The party was still going strong at 3am. Coleen has seen them on tour several times and is Westlifes biggest fan.'

Lots to smile about: Coleen (centre) was seen singing alongside Rylan Clark (top middle) in the stands on Saturday

Party time: According to The Mirror , the WAG, 36, sang Neil Diamond's much-loved tune while dancing as she headed backstage after the Irish group's Wembley Stadium show on Saturday

Coleen was in high spirits during the concert and was seen singing along to all the hits from the Royal Box. She's a big Westlife fan after the band sang at her wedding to Wayne in 2008.'

A source also told MailOnline: 'Coleen and her pals loved the show and stayed to celebrate with Westlife and other celebrity guests at the exclusive after party at Wembley Stadium. She and the girls danced the night away with the boys, Rylan and Louis.

She was later joined by presenter Rylan Clarke, who also jumped at the opportunity for a snap with the Irish boyband.

Pals: She was later joined by presenter Rylan Clark, who also jumped at the opportunity for a snap with the Irish boyband

The couple splashed out 400,000 to book Coleen's favourite band, Westlife, for their 2008 wedding at the elegant Italian resort of Portofino.

They ensured that no expense was spared as The Mail on Sunday also revealed they spent 1million on pre-wedding celebrations and 200,000 on her dress.

The main ceremony took place at Villa Durazzo, part of the stunning 16th Century Castello Brown, while the reception will be held in La Cervara, a 700-year-old former abbey.

Amazing: Westlife put on an energetic display as they took to the stage at their their sold-out gig at London's Wembley Stadium as part of their Wild Dreams Tour

Last year, Westlife's Kian revealed on the Jonathan Ross Show, that he got so drunk at the Rooney wedding that he threw up in the bath after being carried out by security.

While chatting about performing at Wayne and Coleen Rooney's wedding, Shane clarified: 'It was actually Coleen who booked us for Wayne as a surprise. We thought it was the other way around - we thought Coleen might be the fan.'

'He came up and sang with us. He kind of rapped it. It was only a small wedding, I think there were 70 people at it. It was the smallest gig we ever did but it was fun.'

Matching: The band wore co-ordinated ensembles as they showed off their classic dance moves for the much-anticipated London show

Kian recalled the night of the wedding following their performance, saying: 'I definitely got a bit carried away. We started having a few drinks and before you know it you're at the bar doing shots with one of Wayne's cousins or something like that.'

He added: 'I remember being carried out by our security and going back up to our dressing room in the hotel and vomiting into the bathtub!'

Coleen's outing comes as she and Rebekah are set for one last dramatic High Court showdown over who will foot the multi-million-pound bill for their costly 'Wagatha Christie' libel battle.

Sources close to Coleen  who won the case last week  told The Mail on Sunday she will fight to make sure Rebekah pays the full amount, estimated to be up to 3million.

Usually a winning party will still have to pay about 30 per cent of the costs.

But Coleen's team claim the judge's damning judgment that Becky did sell stories about her to The Sun newspaper means it is 'inconceivable' that she won't be made to pay the full amount.
Hyderabad: After lot of speculation over his course of action, Munugode MLA Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy, who won the 2018 polls on a Congress ticket, resigned from the party as well as his membership. He is all set to join the BJP at a public meeting planned in Munugode Assembly constituency on August 21.

The saffron party too has attached greater significance to his joining as reflected in Union home minister Amit Shah attending the meet to welcome Rajgopal Reddy into the party fold.

I intend to usher in a new peoples movement against the corrupt and autocratic regime of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, the former MLA told Deccan Chronicle in a brief conversation.

Excerpts

The bypoll is imminent. What is in store for you?

A: It is an open secret that the ruling dispensation will try all the tricks to win. They will splurge money. But, I have confidence in Munugode electorate. They want to teach a lesson to the corrupt family rule of KCR

What will be the focus of your campaign?

A: I recently interacted with a large number of my supporters and successfully conveyed to them the need for bringing in a new peoples movement, similar to the one that helped realise the decades-old dream of separate Telangana. I will now go to people explaining the same to them besides the reasons that influenced my decision.

How different this bypoll would be from Huzurabad?

A: (Etala) Rajendar fell victim of KCRs politics and attempts were made to take away his assets and people had sympathy. Here, I am fighting against discrimination in releasing funds to constituencies held by Opposition party MLAs and fighting to liberate Telangana from the clutches of KCRs family and restore democracy.

The Congress says you would have stayed back in the party and contested again on its ticket if your claims that ensuring development and release of funds were the driving force for your resignation were genuine.

A: I made it clear that it is the Modi-Shah duo alone, not the Congress that too in Revanth Reddys leadership, can defeat KCR

Will your brother and Nalgonda MP Venkat Reddy campaign against you?

A: I dont know about his moves but at the Chandur meeting the state Congress leadership clearly conveyed that it did not want my brother to campaign for the party. People saw how abusive the speakers were of my brother and my family. It is a conscious attempt by the PCC chief to keep my brother away. I respect whatever the decision my brother takes.
Olivia Newton-John's husband John Easterling has revealed the Grease star's final wish before her death.

The actress and singer died peacefully at the age of 73 at her home in southern California on Monday morning, surrounded by family and friends. Easterling announced her death on her Facebook page.

He said Olivia and her family requested donations to be made to her charity, the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, in her memory instead of flowers.

In the heartbreaking post, he wrote: 'Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer. Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer.'

Olivia Newton-John's (pictured) final wish: The Grease star's heartbroken family revealed her touching last request before her tragic death

'In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made in her memory to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund.'

The foundation funds research into plant-based medicine and holistic treatments for cancer.

Olivia, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2017 and twice before in 1992 and 2013, has spent years lobbying the Australian government to approve the use of medicinal cannabis for cancer patients.

Her husband John Easterling (pictured) revealed on Facebook the actress has requested donations to be made to her charity, the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, in her memory instead of flowers

Easterling grew medicinal cannabis for Olivia on their ranch in the U.S to 'help with her symptoms'.

Olivia previously said it is a 'healing plant' and added: 'Medicinal cannabis is something that should be available to everyone who is going through a chronic illness or pain'.

'It really is a magical miracle plant.'

Olivia also opened her multi-million dollar cancer treatment centre in Melbourne in 2012.

At the centre, patients are treated and breakthrough research and clinical trials are carried out.

The ONJ Foundation funds research into plant-based medicine and holistic treatments for cancer

Newton-John's husband announced her death on her Facebook page on Monday. She was 73

Olivia passed away at her ranch in California on Monday morning.

She is survived by her 36-year-old daughter, Chloe Lattanzi.

Chloe posted a loving tribute to her mother on Instagram three days ago, saying: 'I worship this woman. My mother. My best friend.'

The actress famously beat breast cancer twice but was diagnosed again in 2017.

She spent the last few years at home, campaigning for animals' rights and raising money for her charity online.
She's no stranger to showing off her jaw-dropping figure online.

And Megan Barton Hanson looked nothing short of sensational on Monday, as she shared a gallery of snaps of herself posing up a storm on Instagram.

The Love Island star, 28, put on a very busty display as she modelled an orange halter neck crop top which barely contained her ample assets.

Amazing: Megan Barton Hanson looked nothing short of sensational on Monday, as she shared a gallery of snaps of herself posing up a storm on Instagram

She teamed the eye catching number with a matching ruched mini skirt which featured chain detailing around her waist.

Her blonde tresses were styled in neat waves and she elevated her frame in a pair of towering silver lace up pointed toe heels.

Megan completed her incredible look with a slick of bold red lipstick and fluttering lashes.

'Stepping into my best self': The Love Island star, 28, put on a very busty display as she modelled an orange halter neck crop top which barely contained her ample assets

The reality star was pictured enjoying a cocktail while sitting on a bright green sofa in a bar.

She captioned the snaps: 'Stepping into my best self. Good vibes for the rest of 2022. What are you looking forward to?'

The pictures follow after Megan was seen soaking up the sun earlier in the day as she teased her 1.6million Instagram followers.

'Good vibes for the rest of 2022': She teamed the eye catching number with a matching ruched mini skirt which featured chain detailing around her waist

Wow: Her blonde tresses were styled in neat waves and elevated her frame in a pair of towering silver lace up pointed toe heels

The ITV2 star showcased her jaw-dropping figure in a racy blue bikini as she answered a Q and A.

The OnlyFans star posed up a storm in the eye catching two piece which she teamed with a matching skirt as she was asked whether she 'sunbathed topless' by a fan.

Megan replied: 'Be a shame not to?,' followed by the eye emoji and a link to her OnlyFans account.

Glamorous: Megan completed her incredible look with a slick of red lipstick and fluttering lashes

The blonde beauty seemed in high spirits as she styled her tresses in luxurious waves and donned a radiant bronze makeup palette.

Earlier this month Megan stepped out hand-in-hand with a mystery man as they headed to a pool in Marbella.

The OnlyFans star has been putting on a cosy display with her unknown companion during their getaway, which comes just weeks after she looked loved-up with her ex boyfriend James Lock, 35.

Looking good: The reality star was pictured enjoying a cocktail which sitting on a bright green sofa in a bar

The outing caused confusion, after Megan appeared to have rekindled her tumultuous romance with James when they were seen holding hands on a trip to the Costa del Sol last month.

Megan and the TOWIE star previously split up following a hotel room bust-up in March.

But it recently appeared their romance was back on as they put on a cosy display during their outing, with James wrapping his arm around the glamour model.

Posing up a storm: The pictures followed after Megan was seen soaking up the sun in a busty blue bikini earlier in the day as she teased her 1.6million Instagram followers

Their reunion comes after Megan was reportedly left terrified after her hotel room door was 'kicked in' during a heated row with James in March.

According to The Sun, the reality star alerted the hotel staff who dialled 999, with police spotted arriving by onlookers at the hotel shortly after.

Megan had been staying at the 350-a-night Courthouse Hotel in central London, after she enjoyed a date with another reality star at the same club where James was also partying.

'Be a shame not to': The beauty showcased her jaw-dropping figure in a racy blue bikini as she answered a Q and A about whether she 'sunbathes topless'

Megan was leaving a nightclub at 1.30am with Life On Marbs star Adam Graham shortly after her ex James arrived with a mystery women.

Things then reportedly took a serious turn hours later when it is believed that TOWIE star James was informed of Megan's room number.

A source told the publication: 'At one point, the hotel door was kicked. There was a lot of shouting. Megan was shocked. It was all very aggressive'.

The source believed James was handed a key by staff after he showed them photos of himself and Megan.

The insider added: 'This all happened in broad daylight in a busy hotel. It was very dramatic and Megan's hotel door was damaged in the chaos'.

James and Megan ended their relationship for the second time earlier this year and both later stepped out with new romantic interests.

Exes: The outing comes after Megan and James Lock previously split up following a hotel room bust-up in March (pictured in March)

The on-off pair went Instagram official with their rollercoaster romance in October 2021 after meeting on Celebrity Ex On The Beach, but their union lasted just two months before they split after Christmas.

They reunited when James gifted Megan with a cake shaped like her breasts.

While Megan was said to be 'upset' over what happened, it was claimed that pals thought their 'weird connection' meant this might not be the end.
TV and radio presenter Kate Langbroek has built a bit of a reputation for her crude sense of humour, but on Monday she pushed it to the limits.

The 57-year-old mimed fellatio on a sausage during Channel Ten's Have You Been Paying Attention? quiz show.

Kate was appearing as a panellist on the satirical game show when host Tom Gleisner showed a picture of a wrapped sausage alongside a Commonwealth Games athlete.

Kate Langbroek (pictured) turned heads on Monday when she mimed fellatio on a sausage on Channel Ten's Have You Been Paying Attention? quiz show

He asked panellist Sam Pang whether 'Gotzinger' was the 'discus champ or the liverwurst?'

This led to some racy jokes thrown around about being 'given the sausage', which prompted Gleisner to throw Pang a wrapped Gotzinger snag.

Kate then jumped in by saying 'Tom has given me his sausage from under the desk before!'

Comedian Sam Pang (pictured, right) held up a sausage, which prompted Kate to jokingly grab it and performing the crude mime

Pang held up the sausage and said 'I don't like all the innuendo', which prompted Kate to jokingly ask 'what innuendo?' before grabbing the snag from his hands and pretending to perform fellatio on it.

The audience went crazy over Kate's saucy act and burst into fits of laughter as the camera immediately cut away.

Breakfast radio hosts Kyle and Jackie O discussed Kate's raunchy behaviour on their show on Tuesday.

Kate was mortified when she remembered her son was watching in the audience

Kyle Sandilands, 51, said he was shocked to see Kate 'g**bing a sausage out of someone's hands.'

Jackie 'O' Henderson, 47, added that Kate 'forgot her son was in the audience and was mortified.'

Kate was one half one of Australia's most successful radio duos for years, Nova 100's Hughesy and Kate, alongside comedian Dave Hughes.

Kate and her husband of 17 years, Peter Lewis, relocated to Italy with their four children, Lewis, Sunday, Artie and Jan, in January 2019 and she moved back to Melbourne early last year.
Emma Roberts showed off her ample chest in a beautiful blue and pink floral dress while attending a friend's wedding on Sunday.

The dress, cut out just below her neck and again below her cleavage, complimented the 31-year-old's slender frame.

She tied her dyed blonde hair back in a ponytail, and it fell in messy waves down her back.

Afternoon out: Emma Roberts showed off her ample chest in a beautiful blue and pink floral dress while attending a friend's wedding on Sunday

In the first photo, she held her son Rhodes in her arms. His face was turned away from the camera, but his long blonde hair fell long in the back.

She shares Rhodes with her ex-partner Garrett Hedlund. The duo broke up earlier in the year.

She slung a gray bag over her right shoulder while she stood out in a rustic field.

The star later gave a big smile and through her hands up playfully in almost a fake roar or pounce stance.

Holding him close: In the first photo, she held her son Rhodes in her arms. His face was turned away from the camera, but his long blonde hair fell long in the back

Giving a smooch: In the final snap, she smooched the bride Charlotte Rose Long on the cheek while she stood in her wedding gown, veil pulled back

In the final snap, she smooched the bride Charlotte Rose Long on the cheek while she stood in her wedding gown, veil pulled back.

Pearls encircled her neck and matched her small earrings.

The Nerve star captioned the photos, 'youre never too old to be a flower girl and never too young to be a ring bearer [ring emoji, flower emoji] love you @charlotte.rose.long @prince.dpx congratulations you guys!'

The father: She shares Rhodes with her ex-partner Garrett Hedlund. The duo broke up earlier in the year. Soon after, Hedlund was arrested for public intoxication (pictured 2020)

New co-stars: The Scream Queens star has recently started filming her part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movie Madame Web alongside Dakota Johnson (pictured April 2022)

Roberts' rare afternoon off came while her career has been quite bustling in recent months.

She's recently finished filming on two movies: Maybe I Do and About Fate. She has a third, Saurus City, in post-production.

The Scream Queens star recently started filming her part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe movie Madame Web.

The movie, which will follow a character with clairvoyant powers regarding spider-themed superheroes, also stars Dakota Johnson, Adam Scott and Sydney Sweeney, among others.
Heath Ledger was keen to play a cameo role on beloved Aussie sitcom Kath & Kim.

Magda Szubanski, who played iconic Sharon Strzelecki on the hit show, made the surprise revelation during an interview on Nova's Fitzy & Wippa radio show on Tuesday.

She told hosts Ryan Fitzgerald and Michael Wipfli that the Dark Knight star wanted to play a stalker in pursuit of Strzelecki.

Heath Ledger was keen to play a cameo role on beloved Aussie sitcom Kath& Kim

The Brokeback Mountain legend had made the suggestion himself after he had shared a passionate embrace with Magda on the red carpet at the AFI Awards in 2006.

The kiss between Heath and Magda, who was in character as Sharon at the time, was captured on video and later went viral.

'The joke was, I was going to pash him,' Magda explained 'and he didn't know.'

But Heath 'got the joke' and grabbed a surprised Magda.

The Brokeback Mountain legend had made the suggestion himself after he had shared a passionate embrace with Magda on the red carpet at the AFI Awards in 2006

Heath gives Sharon (Magda Szubanski) a surprise kiss on the red carpet

'I was gonna pash him... but of course he is just such an intuitive actor, he leapt in, and pashed me,' she said.

After the 'pash' Heath called Magda.

'He said, ''that was so much fun''.'

'And he wanted to be on the show as Sharons stalker,' she said 'Which would have been hilarious. So I was gonna meet up with him in London.'

Jane Turner and Gina Riley are seen in the characters of Kath and Kim

Tragically, the Perth-born Ned Kelly star died two years later following an accidental drug overdose.

'He was a great guy,' Magda said sadly.

Last month, Magda quashed rumours of a proposed Kath & Kim reboot during an interview with Now To Love.

Magda Szubanski, who played iconic Sharon Strzelecki on the hit show, made the surprise revelation during an interview on Nova's Fitzy & Wippa radio show on Tuesday

Calling the hit sitcom a 'perfect gem' she said a revival would risk 'tainting' the good memories.

Fans were left crushed when the series ended in 2007, and whispers it was set to return to the TV screens have send social media into a tailspin.

The Babe star also said her fondest memory of the show was when her character married Wayne, a Shane Warne impersonator played by the late leg spinner himself.
Olivia Newton-John's family will be offered a state funeral in recognition of the iconic Australian actress' achievements and dedication to cancer research.

Newton-John, who shot to international stardom thanks to her role as Sandy in the 1978 movie Grease, died on Monday morning aged 73 at her home in southern California following a long battle with breast cancer.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said on Tuesday he will contact the star's family this week to propose the memorial.

Olivia Newton-John 's family will be offered a state funeral in recognition of the iconic Australian actress' achievements and dedication to cancer research

'As for celebrating her life, her music and film and all the other amazing contributions that she made, we would, of course, want to speak to the family and be as respectful as we can,' he told media.

Olivia lends her name to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre, which is located in Heidelberg, Melbourne.

'She took her cancer journey and used that to save lives and change lives, and thats just a deeply impressive thing,' Andrews added.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said on Tuesday he will contact the star's family this week to propose the memorial

'The research thats done there (at the cancer and wellness centre), the treatment, the care, the love and support that is central to that place is a lasting legacy to the person that she was.'

The Grease star died peacefully surrounded by family and friends after a brave and extraordinarily public decades-long battle with cancer.

Olivia's husband John Easterling announced her death on her Facebook page.

'Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends.

'As for celebrating her life, her music and film and all the other amazing contributions that she made, we would, of course, want to speak to the family and be as respectful as we can,' he told media on Tuesday

Olivia lends her name to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre (pictured), which is located in Heidelberg, Melbourne

'We ask that everyone please respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time.

'Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer.

'Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer,' he said.

He also said Olivia and her family requested donations to be made to her charity, the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, in her memory instead of flowers.

The foundation funds research into plant-based medicine and holistic treatments for cancer.

The Grease star died peacefully aged 73 at her home in southern California on Monday morning, surrounded by family and friends after a brave and extraordinarily public decades-long battle with cancer. Pictured Olivia and husband John Easterling

Olivia, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2017 and twice before in 1992 and 2013, has spent years lobbying the Australian government to approve the use of medicinal cannabis for cancer patients.

Easterling grew medicinal cannabis for Olivia on their ranch in the U.S to 'help with her symptoms'.

Olivia previously said it is a 'healing plant' and added: 'Medicinal cannabis is something that should be available to everyone who is going through a chronic illness or pain'.

'It really is a magical miracle plant.'

Easterling has said Olivia and her family requested donations to be made to her charity, the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, in her memory instead of flowers

Olivia is survived by her 36-year-old daughter, Chloe Lattanzi.

The actress famously beat breast cancer twice but was diagnosed again in 2017.

She spent the last few years at home, campaigning for animals' rights and raising money for her charity online.
Pete Davidson has been seeing a therapist for 'trauma therapy' after months of online harassment from Kanye West over his relationship with Kim Kardashian.

The comedian and actor, 28, is said to have decided to 'seek out help' after Kanye, 45, made numerous threatening posts about him on social media, including claiming he was 'dead' in a celebratory fake newspaper page after they recently split.

The former Saturday Night Live star is said to have found the 'attention and negativity' coming from the rapper a 'trigger' and has been receiving trauma therapy since April.

The news comes after Dailymail.com's exclusive story in which a source said Kim, 41, found Kanye's Instagram post on Monday - an image of a fake New York Times newspaper with the headline 'Skete Davidson dead at age 28' - 'appalling'.

Kim is said to have been 'vigorously defending Pete' and 'won't stand for this type of behavior' from her ex-husband, the source told Dailymail.com of the post, which Kanye later removed.

Trigger: Pete Davidson has been seeing a therapist for 'trauma therapy' after months of online harassment from Kanye West over his relationship with Kim Kardashian (pictured in May)

A source told People on Monday: 'He has been in trauma therapy in large part [due to Kanye].

'The attention and negativity coming from Kanye and his antics is a trigger for [Pete], and he's had to seek out help.'

In spite of the situation, Pete is said to have 'no regrets' about his nine month relationship with Kim.

The insider added: '[Pete] has no regrets for dating Kim and wants it to be made very clear that she's been nothing but supportive of him throughout their relationship...

'Moving forward he just wants to focus on his career.'

Trauma: The comedian and actor, 28, (pictured in May) is said to have decided to 'seek out help' after Kanye, 45, made numerous threatening posts about him on social media

'Appalling': Kim, 41, found Kanye's Instagram post on Monday - an image of a fake New York Times newspaper with the headline 'Skete Davidson dead at age 28' - 'appalling'

The Monday post from Kanye also included a line that read, 'Kid Cudi meant to play funeral but fearful of bottle throwers'.

This referred to an incident in which concertgoers at the Rolling Loud Miami festival in July pelted water bottles at Kid Cudi, 38, whose friendship with Pete is the source of hard feelings between him and Kanye.

Both reps for Kim and Pete contacted Instagram to report the post, a source told People, noting that 'his team and Kim's have reached out repeatedly to Instagram asking to make the platform a safer space.'

Pete has 'been absent from social media' as result of frequent attacks from Kanye, an insider told the outlet.

In March, Kanye released a claymation video for his track Eazy, in which he depicted himself committing violent acts against a character resembling Pete.

It's over: Kim and Pete split last week after struggling to make their schedules and the distance work as he is currently filming in Australia

Speaking out: Kanye (pictured in May) made numerous threatening posts about Pete on social media, including claiming he was 'dead' in a celebratory fake newspaper page

Kanye also took to social media in March and said he was 'really concerned' that Davidson would get Kim 'hooked on drugs,' adding, 'He's in rehab every two months.'

Kim and Pete split last week after struggling to make their schedules and the distance work as he is currently filming in Australia.

The couple had been dating for nine months after their romance began in October 2021 off the back of Kim hosting Saturday Night Live.

A source said 'part of the reason they split was because of their busy schedules,' as 'they both travel all the time and it was hard.'

The trauma therapy did not lead to the split, a Kardashian source told People, as 'she's upset about the breakup'.

A source close to the star told DailyMail.com of Kanye's 'Skete is dead' post on Monday: 'Kim won't stand for this. She is demanding that Kanye take the post down, but he won't.

Former flames: Kim and Pete (pictured in April) had been dating for nine months after their romance began in October 2021 off the back of Kim hosting Saturday Night Live

'She has been vigorously defending Pete. She'll never get back together with Kanye over the way he's treated the people she loves and respects.

'She has tried incredibly hard to have a good co-parenting situation for the children. She won't stand for this type of behavior from him.'

Kim and Kanye have four children together, North, nine, Saint, six, Chicago, four, and Psalm, three, and have been co-parenting since she filed for divorce in January 2021.

The source added: 'Kim and Kanye's divorce is still moving ahead. She thinks that people should not be ok with this post  and Instagram should not allow this type of harassment.

'Kim has been very sad about the breakup with Pete  it's not where she thought it would be and that's been hard for her.

'The distance and schedules weighed into their decision but they do love and respect each other. She will always care for him and have his back.'
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Idris Elba looked stylish and handsome on the red carpet at the world premiere of his new survival thriller Beast on Monday in New York City.

The 49-year-old actor was joined for the premiere at the Museum of Modern Art by his wife Sabrina Dhowre, who sizzled in an all-black ensemble, as well as his daughter Isan.

Idris stars in Beast  which will be released on August 19  as a newly widowed scientist who returns to South Africa for a trip to a game reserve with his two daughters.

Leading man: Idris Elba looked stylish and handsome on the red carpet at the world premiere of his new survival thriller Beast on Monday in New York City. The 49-year-old actor was joined for the premiere at the Museum of Modern Art by his wife Sabrina Dhowre, who sizzled in an all-black ensemble, as well as his daughter Isan

But even as he tries to move on from his grief, Idris' character and his family are beset by frightening new challenges as a man-eating lion begins to terrorize the preserve.

Idris and Sabrina had all eyes on them at the premiere thanks to their elegant ensembles.

The Luther star looked stylish in a lustrous grayblue suit with peaked lapels. He dressed it down by wearing a simple white shirt underneath, an he completed the look with black loafers.

Sabrina showed off her stellar curves in a figure-hugging black dress with long sleeves. The outfit featured a star-shaped cutout over her cleavage that was tied together with thin strings that draped down over the dress' ruched midriff.

She parted her shining raven locks down the middle and let them cascade down her shoulders in thick waves.

Scenic getaway: Idris stars in Beast  which will be released on August 19  as a newly widowed scientist who returns to South Africa for a trip to a game reserve with his two daughters

Uh oh: But even as he tries to move on from his grief, Idris' character and his family are beset by frightening new challenges as a man-eating lion begins to terrorize the preserve

Blue mood: The Luther star looked stylish in a lustrous grayblue suit with peaked lapels

It takes two: The premiere was a family affair thanks to the presence of Idris' daughter Isan, whom he shares with his first wife Hanne Nrgaard. The celebrity daughter wore a chic plaid Miu Miu blouse that was rolled up at the bottom and held together by a single button to reveal her trim midriff

Stylish: She paired the top with a matching mini skirt and a slim black belt, and she wore tall rolled-up white socks with silvery open-toe heels

The premiere was a family affair thanks to the presence of Idris' daughter Isan, whom he shares with his first wife Hanne Nrgaard.

The celebrity daughter wore a chic plaid Miu Miu blouse that was rolled up at the bottom and held together by a single button to reveal her trim midriff.

She paired the top with a matching mini skirt and a slim black belt, and she wore tall rolled-up white socks with silvery open-toe heels.

Her long dark hair was styled in eye-catching ringlets and swept back and fanned out across her back, which highlighted her glittering Miu Miu earrings  which spelled out the fashion brand's name  and a hair clip that also bore the name.

Rising stars: Idris highlighted his young costars when he posed on the red carpet with Iyana Halley and Leah Sava Jeffries, who play his daughters in Beast

Elegant: Iyana looked glamorous in a single-shoulder brown dress with a diagonal cutout and a high slit on the skirt. Leah put on an elegant display in a blue-and-gold single-shoulder patterned gown with a voluminous skirt. She wore a thick gold bracelet and strands of pearls around her neck

Idris highlighted his young costars when he posed on the red carpet with Iyana Halley and Leah Sava Jeffries, who play his daughters in Beast.

Iyana looked glamorous in a single-shoulder brown dress with a diagonal cutout and a high slit on the skirt.

The dress was belted with a satin strip around her midriff, and she elevated her stature with gold open-toe heels.

Leah put on an elegant display in a blue-and-gold single-shoulder patterned gown with a voluminous skirt. She wore a thick gold bracelet and strands of pearls around her neck.

Suited up: Sherri Shepherd beamed ear-to-ear a she arrived at the premiere. The TV host, who is taking over Wendy Williams' old time slot, wore a sleek olive jumpsuit with the sleeves rolled up

She wore her hair swept to the side and parted down the middle to reveal her hoop earrings, and she accessorized with a boxy brown handbag; seen with producer Jaime Primak-Sullivan

Supporting player: The South African actor Sharlto Copley, who costars with Idris, kept his look simple with a black suit and a gray tie

Behind the scenes: Will Packer, who produced Beast, looked cool in an olive suit with a dark green shirt and white sneakers. His wife Heather Hayslett matched him in a green dress with diagonal ruffled leaf-like designs and gold open-toe heels

Sherri Shepherd beamed ear-to-ear a she arrived at the premiere. The TV host, who is taking over Wendy Williams' old time slot, wore a sleek olive jumpsuit with the sleeves rolled up.

She wore her hair swept to the side and parted down the middle to reveal her hoop earrings, and she accessorized with a boxy brown handbag.

The South African actor Sharlto Copley, who costars with Idris, kept his look simple with a black suit and a gray tie.

Will Packer, who produced Beast, looked cool in an olive suit with a dark green shirt and white sneakers.

His wife Heather Hayslett matched him in a green dress with diagonal ruffled leaf-like designs and gold open-toe heels.

Stunners: The journalist Jamila Mustafa stunned in a gray satin crop top with puffy sleeves, which she paired with a matching skirt featuring a high slit. The musician Attis stood out with her sleek red satin dress and her striking mound of black and blond dreads that draped down over her shoulder

No fuss: TikTok star Davis Burleson wore a white shirt with heart shapes over the breast pockets, along with black pants and square-toed silver boots. Dirrty King of Pop arrived in a stylish light gray double-breasted suit

The journalist Jamila Mustafa stunned in a gray satin crop top with puffy sleeves, which she paired with a matching skirt featuring a high slit.

The musician Attis stood out with her sleek red satin dress and her striking mound of black and blond dreads that draped down over her shoulder.

TikTok star Davis Burleson wore a white shirt with heart shapes over the breast pockets, along with black pants and square-toed silver boots.

Dirrty King of Pop arrived in a stylish light gray double-breasted suit.

Mastermind: Jaime Primak-Sullivan, who is credited with coming up with the film's story and producing, wore a white bustier-style top with flowing high-waised pants. She was joined by Ryan Engle in a sleek gray suit with brown leather shoes

Mix and match: Joining the film's principal stars was Beast's director Baltasar Kormakur, wore wore a black velvet blazer with peaked lapels but dressed it down with jeans

Gracious: Idris stopped to sign posters for fans as he arrived at drove up to the premiere

Jaime Primak-Sullivan, who is credited with coming up with the film's story and producing, wore a white bustier-style top with flowing high-waised pants.

She was joined by Ryan Engle in a sleek gray suit with brown leather shoes.

Joining the film's principal stars was Beast's director Baltasar Kormakur, wore wore a black velvet blazer with peaked lapels but dressed it down with jeans.

Co-stars: Idris posed with his screen daughters Leah Jeffries (L), who plays Norah, and Iyana Halley (right), who plays Meredith, as they attended the Beast post premiere dinner together

Tasty treats! The actor looked delighted as a delicious celebratory red velvet cake, featuring very dramatic sparklers, arrived for the cast and crew to sample at the afterparty

Family values: Iyanna posed with (L-R) Manny Halley jr, Bobby Shmurda, Manny Halley and Yolanda Halley
Olivia Newton-John revealed she had contemplated the prospect of dying following her cancer diagnosis in one of the final interviews before her tragic death.

Newton-John, who shot to international stardom thanks to her role as Sandy in the 1978 movie Grease, died on Monday morning aged 73 at her home in southern California after a long battle with breast cancer.

During an interview on Sarah Grynberg's A Life of Greatness podcast last year, the Australian icon said: 'We all know we're going to die, but I think we spend our lives in denial. It's extremely personal so it's hard to put into words.

Olivia Newton-John (pictured) spoke openly about contemplating death in one of the haunting final interviews before the Grease star passed away following long breast cancer battle

'I feel that we are all one thing and I've had experiences with spirits and spirit life. I believe there is something that happens.

'I hope the energies of the people you love will be there... I think all the love will be there. I'm sort of looking forward to that, not now, but when it happens.'

The Grease star died peacefully on Monday surrounded by family and friends after a brave and decades-long battle with cancer.

During an interview on Sarah Grynberg's A Life of Greatness podcast last year, Olivia revealed she had contemplated death

Olivia's husband John Easterling announced her death on her Facebook page.

'Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends.

'We ask that everyone please respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time.

'Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer.

'We all know we're going to die, but I think we spend our lives in denial. It's extremely personal so it's hard to put into words,' she said

'Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer,' he said.

He also said Olivia and her family requested donations to be made to her charity, the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, in her memory instead of flowers.

The foundation funds research into plant-based medicine and holistic treatments for cancer.

Olivia, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2017 and twice before in 1992 and 2013, has spent years lobbying the Australian government to approve the use of medicinal cannabis for cancer patients.

The Grease star died peacefully on Monday surrounded by family and friends after a brave and extraordinarily public decades-long battle with cancer

Newton-John's husband announced her death on her Facebook page. She was 73

Easterling grew medicinal cannabis for Olivia on their ranch in the U.S to 'help with her symptoms'.

Olivia previously said it is a 'healing plant' and added: 'Medicinal cannabis is something that should be available to everyone who is going through a chronic illness or pain'.

'It really is a magical miracle plant.'

Olivia is survived by her 36-year-old daughter, Chloe Lattanzi.

The actress famously beat breast cancer twice but was diagnosed again in 2017.

She spent the last few years at home, campaigning for animals' rights and raising money for her charity online.
Kevin Smith called out Warner Bros. for their decision to shelve the upcoming Batgirl film while forging on with the release of the Ezra Miller film The Flash.

The Red Bank, New Jersey native, 52, made the remarks on his YouTube series Hollywood Babble-On, saying it was 'an incredibly bad look to cancel the Latina Batgirl movie,' which stars actress Leslie Grace, 27, in the titular role.

'I dont give a s*** if the movie was absolute f***ing dog s*** - I guarantee you that it wasnt,' Smith said, adding that Batgirl filmmakers Bilall Fallah and Adil El Arbi had previously worked on 'a couple of episodes of Ms. Marvel, and it was a wonderful f***ing show and they had more money to do Batgirl than they had to do an episode of Ms. Marvel and stuff.'

The latest: Kevin Smith, 52, called out Warner Bros. for their decision to shelve the upcoming Batgirl film while forging on with the release of the Ezra Miller film The Flash

The studio last week said that it was not going to release Batgirl theatrically or on its streaming service HBO Max, after claiming it didn't have the scale for a theatrical release and could impact the future of the brand.

According to Variety, Warner Bros. might have been looking for a tax write-off on the motion picture, which would only be possible if it didn't release the movie via any platform.

Smith said that he was skeptical of rumors that poorly-received test screenings soured studio execs to put out the movie, adding that the DC-branded content released on The CW network reflects the money allotted to the budget.

'I love all The CW shows, but The CW shows show their budgetary constraints,' said the director of films such as Clerks, Chasing Amy and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back. 'They said Batgirl looked too cheap because it was a $90 million movie.

Smith said it was 'an incredibly bad look to cancel the Latina Batgirl movie,' which stars actress Leslie Grace in the titular role

Smith said that he was skeptical of rumors that poorly-received test screenings soured studio execs to put out the movie, adding that the DC-branded content released on The CW network reflects the money allotted to the budget

The director said, 'They said Batgirl looked too cheap because it was a $90 million movie. How do you make a cheap-looking $90 million movie?'

'How do you make a cheap-looking $90 million movie? If it looked slightly better than an episode of Arrow then why couldnt we see that?'

Smith also brought up the studio's decision to keep moving with the release of The Flash amid multiple issues swirling around star Ezra Miller, 29, who has been accused of choking an Icelandic woman in a bar, and harassing a separate woman at her Berlin home.

Miller has also been twice arrested this year in Hawaii, once in connection with second-degree assault and another linked to disorderly conduct. On Monday, Miller was charged with felony burglary in Stamford, Vermont in connection with a May 1 incident in which he's accused of stealing liquor from a home.

Smith said that the call to move forward with a theatrical release for the motion picture - which Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav confirmed earlier this month in a company earnings call - was a 'baffling thing' amid Miller's legal troubles.

'I dont give a s*** how bad the Batgirl movie is, nobody in that movie is complicated or has anything in their real life you have to market around,' he said. 'In The Flash movie, we all know theres a big problem! Flash is the Reverse-Flash in real life.'

Smith also brought up the studio's decision to keep moving with the release of The Flash amid multiple issues swirling around star Ezra Miller, 29, who was pictured this past March after an arrest in Hilo, Hawaii
BJP hopes that celebrations of the 75th anniversary of merger of Hyderabad state with Indian Union will give it just the additional push as it sprints towards the finish line for the Assembly polls scheduled to be held sometime around December 2023. (DC File Photo)

HYDERABAD: The BJP, intensifying its tirade against the TRS, is expected to reiterate its long-pending demand that the state government officially celebrate the Telangana Liberation Day on September 17, marking the merger of the then Hyderabad state with the Indian Union in 1948.

To give a strong push to the state BJP, the Central government is likely to officially celebrate the day through the ministry of culture. Incidentally, this ministry is headed by minister G. Kishan Reddy, the party MP from Secunderabad, a key figure in the party as it makes its moves to come to power in Telangana.

A series of yearlong events commemorating various events associated with liberation of Hyderabad state culminating on September 17, 2023 is on cards. For the BJP, 2023 holds great significance as that year will mark 75 years of the Indian Union becoming complete with the merger of Hyderabad state. September 17 also happens to be the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The BJP hopes that celebrations of the 75th anniversary of merger of Hyderabad state with Indian Union will give it just the additional push as it sprints towards the finish line for the Assembly polls scheduled to be held sometime around December 2023.

It was on September 17 last year, while addressing a public meeting in Nirmal, home minister Amit Shah described the day as Telanganas Independence Day, and invoked the role of Indias first home minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in liberation of Hyderabad state.

The BJP leaders have never lost an opportunity to remind people that Chief Minister and TRS president K. Chandrashekar Rao had promised during the movement for statehood that the TRS government would make September 17 an official celebration, but after coming to power it never did so. They also will take aim at their bitter political rival, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen and its leader and Hyderabad MP, Asaduddin Owaisi.

Incidentally, during the recent national executive meeting of the BJP in the city, a photo and materials exhibition that every BJP leader attending the meeting visited, had devoted a significant chunk of the exhibits on the liberation of Hyderabad and its merger with the Indian Union.
Stockard Channing was one of many stars who paid tribute to Olivia Newton-John on Monday, after she passed away at 73, following a 30-year battle with breast cancer.

The 78-year-old actress called her Grease co-star 'the essence of summer' in a touching statement to People.

'I don't know if I've known a lovelier human being. Olivia was the essence of summer  her sunniness, her warmth and her grace are what always come to mind when I think of her,' she said, adding, 'I will miss her enormously.'

Tribute: Stockard Channing was one of many stars who paid tribute to Olivia Newton-John on Monday, after she passed away at 73, following a 30-year battle with breast cancer; Pictured in 1998

Channing played Pink Lady Betty Rizzo alongside Newton-John's goody two shoes teenager Sandy Olsen in the iconic 1978 musical Grease.

Fellow co-star John Travolta, 68, was among the first to pay tribute on Monday, writing: 'My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible. I love you so much.'

He added: 'We will see you down the road and we will all be together again. Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever! Your Danny, your John!'

Touching: The 78-year-old actress called her Grease co-star 'the essence of summer' and said she will 'miss her enormously' in a touching statement to People; (L) Channing as Rizzo (R) Newton-John as Sandy in 1978 stills from Grease

Sunny: 'I don't know if I've known a lovelier human being,' she said, adding, 'Her sunniness, her warmth and her grace are what always come to mind when I think of her'; Pictured 2001

The Grease star died with loved ones by her side at her ranch home in Southern California on Monday, according to her husband, John Easterling.

'Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends,' a Facebook post read.

'We ask that everyone please respect the family's privacy during this very difficult time.

'Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer.

Iconic: Channing played Pink Lady Betty Rizzo alongside Newton-John's goody two shoes teenager Sandy Olsen in the iconic 1978 musical Grease

'Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer,' he said.

Olivia got her big break in the movie musical, in which she starred opposite John Travolta's hunky bad boy Danny Zuko - and originated the new song 'Hopelessly Devoted To You'.

She famously resisted the part, at first turning down producer Allan Carr because she thought she was too old for the role.

He won her over, and adapted the script to make the character an Australian ex-pat to accommodate her accent.

Lovely: Fellow co-star John Travolta, 68, was among the first to pay tribute, writing: 'I love you so much' and adding, 'Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever!'

Sandy and Danny: Olivia got her big break in the movie musical, in which she starred opposite Travolta's hunky bad boy Danny Zuko

When the movie was released, it was an immediate, international hit and she became a global sex symbol.

She would later defend her sweet-to-sexy transition for years to come and amid a wave of criticism from during the #MeToo movement.

'It's a movie. It's a story from the 50s where things were different. Everyone forgets that, at the end, he changes for her, too. There's nothing deep in there about the #MeToo movement. It's just a girl who loves a guy, and she thinks if she does that, he'll like her.

'And he thinks if he does that, she'll like him. I think that's pretty real. People do that for each other. It was a fun love story.'
Lala Kent and Rachel McCord dressed in chic business-casual ensembles for the MAGIC Fashion Trade Show in Las Vegas on Monday.

The 31-year-old reality star wore a long, patterned brown blazer that ended high on her thighs.

The cute sport coat covered a dark brown jumpsuit that accentuated her ample chest.

Looking great: Lala Kent and Rachel McCord dressed in chic business casual ensembles for the MAGIC Fashion Trade Show in Las Vegas on Monday

The jumpsuit stopped in the middle of her thighs, and she stood in white sneakers with brown trim.

She wore her dyed blonde hair fall in straight waves down the sides of her face, and the locks curled on her slender shoulders.

Kent's full lips were painted a glossy pink, and she puckered up her lips as she dominated the red carpet.

Relaxed: The star stood in a relaxed stance with one foot over the other, her bright white nails

Leggy: The jumpsuit stopped in the middle of her thighs, and she stood in white sneakers with brown trim

Long locks: She wore her dyed blonde hair fall in straight waves down the sides of her face, and the locks curled on her slender shoulders

Full lips: Kent's full lips were painted a glossy pink, and she puckered up her lips as she dominated the red carpet

The Salt Lake City native stopped on the red carpet to take a few photos with the event's host Rachel McCord.

McCord, 32, wore a pristine white jacket with several gold buttons in the middle of her torso.

She matched it to professional white slacks and stood on sparkling gold high heels.

Posing on the carpet: The Salt Lake City native stopped on the red carpet to take a few photos with the event's host Rachel McCord

All white: McCord, 32, wore a pristine white jacket with several gold buttons in the middle of her torso

Puckered up: Kent puckered her lips up and tossed a peace sign up on the red carpet

Her blonde hair was parted in the middle and collected in pools near the top of her chest.

The pair were joined by a coterie of other fashion industry individuals including Taylor Jones who donned a ruffled blue dress without sleeves.

Milton Hernandez wore a white coat with big blue polka dots over a tiny white shirt and black slacks.

Posing with letters: The pair stood next to a giant 'G' in the word 'Magic' on the red carpet

Lots of big names:

Big talk: The five sat onstage and chatted with about social media trends for 2023 during the event

Brandi Fowler showed off her impressive cleavage in a black and white dotted shirt that showed off her toned tummy.

Polyester pink pants wrapped around her strong legs, and she stood in black and white sneakers. Her blonde hair flowed naturally down past her shoulders and she threw up a peace sign on the red carpet.

The five sat onstage and chatted about social media trends for 2023 during the event.

The MAGIC Fashion Trade Show in Las Vegas is, according to its website, 'high-energy fashion experience and home to the largest selection of trend, young contemporary, modern sportswear, footwear, and accessories brands in the industry.'
Is the question on everyone's lips - will Schapelle Corby be Australia's next Bachelorette?

The convicted drug smuggler, 45, announced on Sunday that her long-distance relationship with Indonesian boyfriend Ben Panangian, 40, was over and that she was looking for love once more.

Fans immediately began speculating that the freed convict could be set to join The Bachelorette, following in the footsteps of stars such as Sophie Monk and Angie Kent.

Channel 10 has denied rumours that convicted drug smuggler Schapelle Corby, 45, (pictured) will be the next Bachelorette following her split from boyfriend Ben Panangian

But Channel 10 producers put the whispers to rest on Tuesday by confirming that Schapelle had been ruled out as a future Bachelorette star.

Speaking to TV Tonight, Warner Bros Australia's managing director Michael Brooks said of Schapelle joining the show: 'We've enjoyed great success having celebrities as part of the show in the past but it's not something we're focused on right now.'

Schapelle is no stranger to the world of reality television, having competed on Channel Seven's SAS Australia in 2020 and Dancing With The Stars the following year.

Schapelle announced on Sunday that her long-distance relationship with Indonesian boyfriend Ben Panangian (left) was over and that she was looking for love once more

Speaking to TV Tonight , Warner Bros Australia's managing director Michael Brooks said of Schapelle joining the show: 'We've enjoyed great success having celebrities as part of the show in the past but it's not something we're focused on right now'

Schapelle confirmed her single status on Sunday, uploading a throwback photo of herself and ex-boyfriend Ben having fun on the beach, with Ben's face and body scratched out.

'Looking for a new Four Leaf Clover. *ATTENTION*. Help a girl out - Get Tagging,' she wrote in her caption, indicating that she's already on the hunt for Ben's lucky replacement.

Since making the announcement, the brunette has received a flurry of online attention from male admirers.

Schapelle is no stranger to the world of reality television, having competed on Channel Seven's SAS Australia in 2020 (left) and Dancing With The Stars the following year (right)

Schapelle confirmed her single status on Sunday, uploading this throwback photo of herself and ex-boyfriend Ben having fun on the beach, with Ben's face and body scratched out

Schapelle and Ben met in a Bali prison in 2006 when they were both serving time for drug-related offences, but hadn't seen each other in person since 2019.

Ben was released from prison in 2009, while Schapelle was finally paroled in 2014 and allowed to return to Australia in 2017.

The Indonesian government, however, permanently banned her from ever revisiting their country, which put a strain on their now long-distance relationship.

'Looking for a new Four Leaf Clover. *ATTENTION*. Help a girl out - Get Tagging,' she wrote in her caption, indicating that she's already on the hunt for Ben's lucky replacement

Since making the announcement, the brunette has received a flurry of online attention from male admirers

In October 2004, Schapelle became a household name when she was arrested at Bali airport with 4.2kg of cannabis wrapped in plastic inside her boogie board bag.

The world watched in May 2005 as she broke down in the Denpasar courtroom after being sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment.

Following a series of sentence reductions, she was released on parole in February 2014, having served nine years behind bars.

The former beautician has always denied knowingly importing drugs and maintains the marijuana was planted in her luggage by corrupt baggage handlers.

Schapelle and Ben (left) met in a Bali prison in 2006 when they were both serving time for drug-related offences, but hadn't seen each other in person since 2019
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Third-generation actor Chris Pine sweetly attended the premiere of his father Robert Pine's new show Five Days at Memorial at the DGA Theater Complex in West Hollywood on Monday.

The 81-year-old CHiPs alum plays Dr. Horace Baltz in Carlton Cuse and John Ridley's eight-episode Hurricane Katrina drama, which premieres this Friday on Apple TV+.

Robert (born Granville) looked sharp in a blue blazer over a light-blue top and slacks with a bright red bow tie and pocket square with denim-colored canvas shoes.

Like father, like son! Third-generation actor Chris Pine (R) sweetly attended the premiere of his father Robert Pine's (L) new show Five Days at Memorial at the DGA Theater Complex in West Hollywood on Monday

Premieres this Friday on Apple TV+! The 81-year-old CHiPs alum plays Dr. Horace Baltz in Carlton Cuse and John Ridley's eight-episode Hurricane Katrina drama

The 41-year-old Emmy nominee bared his chest in a white unbuttoned shirt beneath a navy-blue blazer, grey pleated pants held up with suspenders, and brown boots selected by styling duo Wendi & Nicole Ferreira.

Chris rocked a smooth face after recently shaving his burly Darren Barrenman beard off after wrapping his upcoming feature directorial debut, Poolman.

Robert's wife of 52 years - Gwynne Gilford - became a psychotherapist after retiring from acting following her role as Courteney Cox's onscreen mother in Gary Goddard's 1987 He-Man flick Masters of the Universe.

Chris' late maternal grandmother Anne Gwynne - who passed away in 2003 - was one of the original scream queens from the 1940s having acted opposite Lon Chaney Jr., Boris Karloff, and Bela Lugosi.

Still got it! Robert (born Granville) looked sharp in a blue blazer over a light-blue top and slacks with a bright red bow tie and pocket square with denim-colored canvas shoes

Family first: The 41-year-old Emmy nominee bared his chest in a white unbuttoned shirt beneath a navy-blue blazer, grey pleated pants held up with suspenders, and brown boots selected by styling duo Wendi & Nicole Ferreira

Hello, handsome! Chris rocked a smooth face after recently shaving his burly Darren Barrenman beard off after wrapping his upcoming feature directorial debut, Poolman

MIA: Robert's wife of 52 years - Gwynne Gilford (L) - became a psychotherapist after retiring from acting following her role as Courteney Cox's (R) onscreen mother in Gary Goddard's 1987 He-Man flick Masters of the Universe

Weird Woman: Chris' late maternal grandmother Anne Gwynne (R, pictured in 1944) - who passed away in 2003 - was one of the original scream queens from the 1940s having acted opposite Lon Chaney Jr. (L), Boris Karloff, and Bela Lugosi

After the screening, the Pines mingled at the official Five Days at Memorial after party held at nearby Italian restaurant, Cecconi's.

The Doula producer-star will next attend the world premiere of Don't Worry Darling screening out of competition at the Venice Film Festival sometime between August 31 and September 10.

Chris portrays Victory Project CEO Frank - who rules over a sinister experimental community in the desert - in Olivia Wilde's 1950s-set thriller, which hits US/UK theaters September 23.

But Monday was Robert's night as he posed with the large cast and crew of the limited series based on actual events.

Cheers! After the screening, the Pines mingled at the official Five Days at Memorial after party held at nearby Italian restaurant, Cecconi's

Italy bound! The Doula producer-star will next attend the world premiere of Don't Worry Darling screening out of competition at the Venice Film Festival sometime between August 31 and September 10

Hitting US/UK theaters September 23! Chris portrays Victory Project CEO Frank - who rules over a sinister experimental community in the desert - in Olivia Wilde's (L) 1950s-set thriller

At the after party, the New York native posed with his castmate Julie Ann Emery, who portrays Diane Robichaux in six episodes.

Robert also caught up with co-star Damon Standifer, who plays Emmett Everett in four episodes.

Oscar nominee Vera Farmiga wore a red bell-sleeved turtleneck tucked into matching pleated pants and nude pumps selected by stylist Erica Cloud.

The Bates Motel alum - who turned 49 last Saturday - was joined at the premiere by her second husband Renn Hawkey, with whom she has two children.

Man of the hour! But Monday was Robert's night as he posed with the large cast and crew of the limited series based on actual events

Reunited: At the after party, the New York native posed with his castmate Julie Ann Emery (R), who portrays Diane Robichaux in six episodes

Celebration: Robert also caught up with co-star Damon Standifer (L), who plays Emmett Everett in four episodes

Vera and the 48-year-old musician - who began dating 2004 - will celebrate their 14th wedding anniversary on September 13.

In Five Days at Memorial, Farmiga stars as cancer surgeon Dr. Anna Pou, who eventually won a legal war after being accused of the 2005 deaths of four LifeCare patients in 2006.

The Hawkeye star made sure to pose with Five Days at Memorial co-creator Carlton Cuse, but there was no sign of the other co-creator John Ridley.

One can only wonder if Vera called her castmates Monica Wyche and Adepero Oduye before the festivities to make sure they wore such complimentary primary colors.

Lady in red! Oscar nominee Vera Farmiga wore a red bell-sleeved turtleneck tucked into matching pleated pants and nude pumps selected by stylist Erica Cloud

Birthday girl: The Bates Motel alum - who turned 49 last Saturday - was joined at the premiere by her second husband Renn Hawkey, with whom she has two children

Still going strong! Vera and the 48-year-old musician - who began dating 2004 - will celebrate their 14th wedding anniversary on September 13

Eye of the storm: In Five Days at Memorial, Farmiga stars as cancer surgeon Dr. Anna Pou, who eventually won a legal war after being accused of the 2005 deaths of four LifeCare patients in 2006

Mastermind: The Hawkeye star made sure to pose with Five Days at Memorial co-creator Carlton Cuse (L), but there was no sign of the other co-creator John Ridley

Farmiga also happily reunited with her co-star Cherry Jones during the after party.

The 65-year-old Emmy winner - who portrayed Memorial nursing director Susan Mulderick - toted an oxblood clutch with her black blouse, matching wide-leg pants, and dress shoes.

The two-time Emmy nominee also hung out with castmates Cornelius Smith Jr. and Molly Hager, who play Dr. Bryant King and Virginia Rider in Five Days at Memorial.

Standing out in bright blue and purple suits were Sharron Matthews and W. Earl Brown - who play Cheri Landry and Dr. Ewing Cook in the series, respectively.

They play Sandra and and Karen! One can only wonder if Vera called her castmates Monica Wyche (L) and Adepero Oduye (M) before the festivities to make sure they wore such complimentary primary colors

Hey girl! Farmiga also happily reunited with her co-star Cherry Jones (L) during the after party

Sarah Paulson's ex-girlfriend: The 65-year-old Emmy winner - who portrayed Memorial nursing director Susan Mulderick - toted an oxblood clutch with her black blouse, matching wide-leg pants, and dress shoes

Glam trio: The two-time Emmy nominee (R) also hung out with castmates Cornelius Smith Jr. (L) and Molly Hager (M), who play Dr. Bryant King and Virginia Rider in Five Days at Memorial
Idris Elba opened up about his new film Beast and shared some of his DJ skills on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

The 49-year-old is best known as an actor, but he is also an accomplished musician and DJ, having performed with the likes of Jay-Z and Paul McCartney.

He was quizzed by Fallon about the perfect songs to play in certain situations while discussing the film, debuting in theaters August 19.

Opening up: Idris Elba opened up about his new film Beast and shared some of his DJ skills on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon

Musician: The 49-year-old is best known as an actor, but he is also an accomplished musician and DJ, having performed with the likes of Jay-Z and Paul McCartney

Quizzed: He was quizzed by Fallon about the perfect songs to play in certain situations while discussing the film, debuting in theaters August 19

Elba plays a man who brings his two daughters to Africa, where he first met his late wife, when their lives are turned upside down.

'It's about a family that go back to a small village in West Africa to mourn the death of a loved one, my ex-wife and my childrens' mother,' he explained.

'We find out that the village is like empty and it's been ravaged by something or someone and it's terrible,' he added.

Upside down: Elba plays a man who brings his two daughters to Africa, where he first met his late wife, when their lives are turned upside down

Village: 'We find out that the village is like empty and it's been ravaged by something or someone and it's terrible,' he added

'Basically, they find themselves cornered by a rogue lion who has been sort of broken from their pride by poachers,' Elba continued.

He added the movie is, 'basically a survival story,' adding his character and his daughters, 'are having a tough time dealing with the death of their mum, so it's really about the beast coming for them, the beast of mourning, the beast of family ties and how that all comes together

'We based that lion in the movie on a lion that's been extinct for a long time, it's called a Barbary lion,' he said.

Rogue lion: 'Basically, they find themselves cornered by a rogue lion who has been sort of broken from their pride by poachers,' Elba continued

'It was a huge lion, much bigger than the average lion, so for the film we just amplified the fact that this was really big,' Elba added.

They also shared a laugh over the stuntman Owen who was dressed in a makeshift 'tiger' suit, which Fallon joked was the 'scariest thing I've seen in my life.'

Fallon also asked the accomplished DJ to put his skills to the test and reveal what songs would be perfect to play in a variety of situations.

Stuntman: They also shared a laugh over the stuntman Owen who was dressed in a makeshift 'tiger' suit, which Fallon joked was the 'scariest thing I've seen in my life'

DJ: Fallon also asked the accomplished DJ to put his skills to the test and reveal what songs would be perfect to play in a variety of situations

First up was getting dumped, which he said was Mark Morrisson's Return of the Mack, while suggesting If This World Were Mine by Luther Vandross for someone who wanted to propose marriage.

When asked what he'd play to 'psyche yourself up' for possibly a big job interview, he started singing, 'Allow me to re-introduce myself' from Jay-Z's Public Service Announcement... but Fallon thought he was singing The Humpty Dance.

When asked what the one final song he'd play before the venue closed, he revealed he'd play Party Up (Up In Here) by DMX.

Return: First up was getting dumped, which he said was Mark Morrisson's Return of the Mack, while suggesting If This World Were Mine by Luther Vandross for someone who wanted to propose marriage
Lauren Goodger is 'unrecognisable' following an alleged attack which led to the arrest of her boyfriend Charles Drury on their day of their baby's funeral.

The former TOWIE star, 35, who is said to have suffered a fractured eye socket during the alleged assault, is believed to staying with a friend after Charles, 25, was released on bail.

A close friend of Lauren's, Lauryn Goodman, has admitted she is brought to tears every time she looked at the star's face after the incident.

Lauryn, 31, told how Lauren has been through the 'roughest, darkest ride in secret' as she shared a message of support to her pal on Instagram.

Lauren's daughter Lorena died on July 8 after being born with the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck and she was laid to rest on August 3.

Charles, who has denied attacking Lauren, was arrested in the hours after the funeral on Wednesday night on suspicion of assault and has since been bailed.

Tragic: Lauren Goodger is 'unrecognisable' following an injury which led to the arrest of her boyfriend Charles Drury on their day of their baby's funeral (pictured July 2022)

Lauren's sister Nicola shared a snap of Lauren's daughter Larose and said: 'This gorgeous little girl doesn't even know how lucky she is to have such a strong amazing mum! As long as you have each other you'll both be fine.'

Lauryn, 31, reshared the post and detailed her friend's horrendous injuries on her Instagram Stories on Monday evening.

She said: 'Couldn't have said this better myself. Seen a few things as well and I'd like to say there are NEVER 2 sides to a story when my friend's face looks how it does. She is unrecognisable.

'Brings me to tears every time I look at her. No amount of lies you tell will ever hide the truth now. Please if anyone ever finds themselves in this situation never think staying quiet or hiding is best.

'Always confide and reach out to people. Better days will come and you aren't trapped. Promise. Be strong for your little ones.'

Horrific: The former TOWIE star, 35, who is said to have suffered a fractured eye socket during the alleged assault, is 'staying with a friend' after Charles (pictured), 25, was released on bail

In a separate post, Lauryn spoke about how people are 'quick to judge' Lauren, but described her as 'one of the kindest hearted people I've ever met'.

She wrote: 'You have a genuine soul and would never ever wish bad on anyone. I wish I could take the pain away for.

'Larose is so lucky to have such a strong woman mum.'

Lauryn continued: 'I wish people knew YOU, you are SO funny, genuine, beautiful inside and out and have been through the roughest, darkest, ride in secret.

'This is one of the problems with the celeb world and social media. Everyone is so quick to judge every little thing. You're a real one and trust me things will get better.'

Lauren had to go to hospital for serious facial injuries and was interviewed by police.

Speaking out: A close friend of Lauren's, Lauryn Goodman, has admitted she is brought to tears every time she looked at the star's face after the assault

Candid: Lauryn, 31, told how Lauren has been through the 'roughest, darkest ride in secret' as she shared a message of support to her pal on Instagram

She had just attended her daughter's funeral with her family and was allegedlty attacked later that night.

Police were called at 00.37am on Thursday to reports of an altercation and Charles was arrested on suspicion of assault.

He was released on bail in the early hours of Friday morning, according to police.

Lauren was taken to hospital by her friend after the incident for medical check-ups and has since been awaiting her X-Ray results.

'Lauren is absolutely terrified. This has shaken her badly,' a source told The Sun on Sunday.

'She suffered some nasty injuries and fears she has suffered a broken eye socket.'

Hiding: Lauren is reportedly staying with a friend following the alledged attack in Upminster (Charles pictured with Larose)

Charles denies attacking Lauren, telling the Sun: 'There's a completely different side to stuff.'

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said on Friday night: 'Police were called at 00.37 hrs on Thursday, August 4 to reports of an altercation.

'Officers attended. At the scene a woman, aged 30s, was found with facial injuries.

Horrendous: Lauren posted an image on her Instagram after her daughter's birth in which she holds the newborn's hand

'A man was arrested on suspicion of assault. He was taken to an east London police station and subsequently bailed pending further inquiries. Inquiries continue.'

Lauren and Charles met in October 2020 and announced they were expecting a child together three months after going public with their relationship.

She had teased she was dating someone new before the identity of Charles, a builder and former lover of Katie Price, came to light.

The couple have a one-year-old daughter Larose together.

In January, she revealed she was expecting her second child.

History: Lauren and Charles' romance first came to light in October 2020, they announced they were expecting their first child together just three months after going public

The alleged assault happened just hours after Lauren attended the funeral of her baby daughter Lorena.

Doctors tried in vain to save the 9lb baby but she was born with two knots in her umbilical cord which was tied around her neck.

After she died, her traumatised mother spent hours saying goodbye to her.

The heartbroken star also later revealed she still 'has a bit of a bump' which sometimes tricks her into thinking her baby girl was 'still there'.

She said: 'It's weird. My body feels like it's unsettled, like it's missing a newborn.'

Details: The incident happened only hours after a private funeral for baby Lorena (Lauren is pictured with Charles in an Instagram story)

Lauren posted an Instagram message telling how much she loved her daughter, who died minutes after being born on July 8, saying: 'I carried you, I felt you grow. Longed for the day we'd meet. Dreamed of your future. Not only did I know you, I fell in love with you.'

Lauren's waters broke on July 6 and Tamzin, her NHS midwife, came to her house to take her blood pressure and listen to the baby's heartbeat.

The TV personality was planning a second home birth with no drugs as she had with older daughter Larose, who was born in a 'perfect', 'amazing' and 'smooth' home birth last year.

Midwife Tamzin told Lauren 'everything was where it should be' and she waited for her contractions to start at home.

Charles took Larose to stay with family so Lauren could rest and she chilled out and went to sleep.

Awful: Doctors tried in vain to save the 9lb baby but she was born with two knots in her umbilical cord which was tied around her neck (Lauren and Charles pictured March 2022)

The following morning, July 7, midwife Tamzin came around again to check the baby's heartbeat and movement, as well as Lauren's blood pressure and temperature.

Once again, both mother and baby were normal, and Lauren didn't have any 'pain or signs of labour'.

On the morning of July 8 there were still no signs of contractions, so Charles brought Larose back and Lauren breastfed her because the stimulation can bring on contractions, which worked.

Lauren's contractions began and she called her midwife to tell her Lorena was coming.

Tamzin came over immediately to check the heartbeat, but was devastatingly unable to find it, despite locating a 'really strong heartbeat' just hours before.

She told Lauren she was 'really worried' and called an ambulance. Lauren, 'in agony' at this point, was blue-lighted to hospital, and was 'stood up screaming' throughout the journey.

By the time she had arrived at hospital, Lorena's head was crowning, which Lauren said was the 'most traumatic experience I've ever been through in my life'.

She and Charles were taken inside the hospital and shown to a private room, where Lauren gave birth to Lorena just two hours after her contractions had started.

Lauren immediately knew there was a problem because there was no cry from Lorena and a team of doctors rushed into the room.

Lorena was born with two big knots in her umbilical cord and with the cord tied around her neck, causing life-threatening problems.

Doctors desperately fought to save Lorena, performing chest compressions and giving her adrenaline for eight minutes while trying in vain to resuscitate her.

The medical team were sadly unsuccessful and told Lauren and Charles there was nothing more they could do.

Lauren was already at 'rock bottom', as just five days before her child died on July 8, her ex-boyfriend Jake McLean, 33, died in a car accident in Bodrum, Turkey.

Mclean, who she dated from 2012 until 2016 and reportedly secretly reconciled with until 2020, died last month when he 'lost control' of the vehicle in Turkey.

After the accident she shared a heartbreaking series of lyrics to her Instagram Stories.

Lauren's post featured a black backdrop while the song's lyrics gradually appeared on the screen.

The lyrics were: 'Search your heart, search your soul. When you find me there, you'll search no more.'
She's currently in Mallorca on a romantic getaway.

And on Monday, Love Island's Francesca Allen, 26, displayed her slim frame in an aqua bikini as she enjoyed a morning snorkel with her fiance Ed Crossan.

The reality star took to Instagram where she documented some holiday highlights, which included showing off her sensational physique in the floral two-piece South Beach swimwear set.

Stunning: On Monday, Love Island's Francesca Allen, 26, displayed her slim frame in an aqua bikini as she enjoyed a morning snorkel with her fiance Ed Crossan

The make-up free star showed off her natural beauty during their morning swim, and shared a snap of her shirtless future-husband as he readied himself for a snorkel.

Francesca also posted a shot of herself dressed in a nude pair of bikini bottoms and a white crop top, while posing with a woven hat covering her face.

The Love Islander and her man have been celebrating his birthday during their Spanish getaway, with Francesca posting a tribute to Ed alongside sweet couple photographs.

Branding him her 'one and only', Francesca looked happier than ever as she adventured with Ed, while dressed in a white Broderie Anglaise dress.

Sensational: The reality star took to Instagram where she showed off her sensational physique in the floral two-piece South Beach swimwear set

Morning swim: Francesca shared a snap of her shirtless future-husband as he readied himself for a snorkel

Fashionista: Francesca also posted a shot of herself dressed in a nude pair of bikini bottoms and a white crop top, while posing with a woven hat covering her face

The reality star got engaged to businessman Ed in December after a year of dating, and she is planning to make some of her closest Love Island pals from her stint on the ITV2 dating show part of her bridal party.

At the end of July, she told OK! Online: '[My friends from Love Island are] 100 per cent going to be part of my wedding. I'm considering a few of them as bridesmaids to be fair, so they'll definitely be part of my special day.'

The fashion influencer was close to Yewande Biala, Joanna Chimonides and Amy Hart on the fifth series of Love Island.

Birthday trip: The Love Islander and her man have been celebrating his birthday during their Spanish getaway, with Francesca posting a tribute to Ed alongside sweet couple photographs

Loving life: Branding him her 'one and only', Francesca looked happier than ever as she adventured with Ed, while dressed in a white Broderie Anglaise dress

Francesca is set on having her wedding abroad and is heading to Italy to check out some venues after deciding against party central, Ibiza.

She said: 'I've been really chill [about wedding plans] and I haven't really started anything yet. Ed keeps asking me 'So any thoughts?' I definitely think I want it to be abroad; I looked at Ibiza but that wasn't really for me.'

She added: 'I'm going to go to Italy and have a look around there. There's a couple of places that I really like there. I just need to get the feel! Once I have the place, then I can get rolling.'

Francesca said she feels an affinity for 'beautiful' Italian because of the Italian blood in her family, adding that she's a huge fan of the local food.

Fabulous: During one evening out together, Francesca stunned in a classic LBD

Divine: The reality star oozed effortless glamour in the ruffle-hemmed mini dress

Future husband: She was sure to include a shot of Ed, who sat showing off his heavily tattooed body during an evening in Spain

Francesca was briefly coupled-up with former fireman Michael Griffiths on the 2019 season of Love Island.

She shared the happy news she was engaged to Ed in an Instagram post in December last year as she gushed it was the 'best Christmas present a girl could ask for'.

It came just seven weeks after Francesca went Instagram official with her fiance.

Sharing snaps of her beau popping the question, Francesca penned: 'The best Christmas present a girl could ask for  I'm marrying my best friend!!!!! I still can't believe it.'

Happiness! Francesca showed off her giant diamond ring when she got engaged in December last year just two months after revealing her romance with Ed
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He sadly lost his beloved Bulldog, Dali, last week.

And on Monday, shirtless Hugh Jackman, 53, displayed his buff body as he took his pet pooch, Allegra, for a swim in Miami during a beach day with wife Deborah-Lee Furness, 66.

The Greatest Showman actor topped up his tan, wearing just long blue swim shorts as he took his caramel coloured poodle-terrier cross to cool off in the sea.

Cute: On Monday, shirtless Hugh Jackman, 53, displayed his buff body as he took his pet pooch, Allegra, for a swim in Miami during a beach day with wife Deborah-Lee Furness, 66

While strolling along the beach with his wife, Huge covered up his gym-honed frame with a slate grey T-shirt, and shielded his head with a beige cowboy hat.

Deborah-Lee was equally casual in a black shorts-and-tee combo, while also rocking a Western style hat during the dog walk.

The beach day outing with Allegra came just days after Hugh revealed his other dog Dali passed away just one month shy of his 12th birthday.

The movie star posted a pair of photos with his beautiful French bulldog - who he adopted back in 2010 - to Instagram on Friday.

Wow! The Greatest Showman actor topped up his tan, wearing just long blue swim shorts as he cooled off in the sea

Adorable: Hugh took his caramel coloured poodle-terrier cross into the water with him

Low key: Deborah-Lee casual in a black shorts-and-tee combo, while also rocking a Western style hat during the dog walk

Looking good: The Hollywood star showed off his ripped abs during his time in the sea

The cute pup kissed and licked at her owner's neck and face while he sat at a table looking at his computer.

'It's a very sad day for our family,' he wrote in the caption. 'Dali, our beloved Frenchie, passed away last night. He would've been 12 next month  which I'm told is a long life for this breed. I always, always called him the ROCKSTAR.

'Because he was! He marched to the beat of his own drum, was beloved by the whole world, and boy did he have a good life.

'We will miss him but know he's howling in heaven, ruling the roost and enjoying the all you can eat buffet. RIP Dali Rockstar Jackman. We love you!'

Bliss: As Hugh kicked back in the sea, Allegra paddled around nearby

Doting: The actor scooped up Allegra into his arms as he waded through the sea

Off-duty style: While strolling along the beach with his wife, Huge covered up his gym-honed frame with a slate grey T-shirt, and shielded his head with a beige cowboy hat

The Broadway star regularly shares pup updates with his 30 million followers on Instagram and previously joked that his canine companions were 'way more famous' than him.

He previously joked: 'My dogs are way more famous than me! If I post anything about my dogs, it blows up. I just did a play and fans were coming to the theatre - but it wasn't for me!

'I was taking the puppy into the theatre and the fans would say 'When's the dog coming?' They came to see the puppy. They didn't care about me! And I get it, they're way more interesting than me!'
Ella Rae Wise filmed scenes celebrating her birthday for The Only Way Is Essex on Monday at an outdoor swimming pool in Brentwood.

The make-up free reality star, who turned 22 last month, showcased her jaw-dropping physique in a dazzling gold bikini featuring silver embellishments.

Leading her co-stars on the ITVBe show, which is due to air later this year, she was joined by the likes of Jordan Brook, Elma Pazar, Dan Edgar and Amber Turner.

Wow! Ella Rae Wise filmed scenes celebrating her birthday for The Only Way Is Essex on Monday at an outdoor swimming pool in Brentwood

Clutching a pair of sunglasses, she kept things casual with a pair of brown leather sandals and accessorised with a sparkling silver watch.

Turning around to exhibit her peachy rear, the influencer reclined into a white chair and sipped on cocktails with her pal Junaid.

Amber, 29, and Dan, 32, put on a loved up display on Monday, as they filmed TOWIE at Courtney Green's birthday at Marsh Farm Animal Adventure Park.

The couple, who have been together for four years, looked typically fashion forward as they filmed the scenes for the newest season with their miniature goldendoodle Oliver.

Stunning: The make-up free reality star, who turned 22 last month, showcased her jaw-dropping physique in a dazzling gold bikini featuring silver embellishments

Out of this world: Donning a pair of sunglasses, she kept things casual with a pair of brown leather sandals and accessorised with a sparkling silver watch

Pals: Leading her co-stars on the ITVBe show, which is due to air later this year, she was joined by the likes of Jordan Brooks, Elma Pazar, Dan Edgar and Amber Turner

They appeared to be as smitten as ever despite being recently rocked by claims that Dan said he had 'always wanted a piece' of Ella.

The couple appeared in excellent spirits after Dan was last month accused of flirting with Ella who's 11 years his junior, during an Essex night out.

Ella sent a voice note to friends that circulated in Essex claiming Dan has always fancied her, and once Amber, 28, heard the message, she was furious, a TOWIE insider claimed.

The insider revealed: 'Amber couldn't believe what she was hearing.

Gorgeous: She ensured to send temperatures soaring during the outing

Sizzling: She causes onlookers to gawk wherever she goes

Pert: Ella turned around to exhibit her peachy rear at one point

Strolling: The birthday girl carried a grey gift bad as she strutted around the swimming pool

'She lives with Dan, they have been together for years and share a dog, she thought they had moved on from Essex rumours and gossip.

'To be confronted with this all during filming for the new series in the Dominican Republic was hard for her too, she didn't expect to be at the forefront of another storyline about her relationship.'

The TOWIE cast has recently been filming for the upcoming season in the Caribbean.

Bosses have signed up Absolutely Ascot star Mia and her two close friends Hannah and Pia for the new series, along with Love Island's Elma Pazar.

Having a blast! The influencer reclined into a white chair and sipped on cocktails

Talkative: She chatted away with her pals as they sat poolside

Beaming: She exhibited her sparkling smile while grinning from ear-to-ear

Buddies: Junaid, a series newcomer, also seemed to be having a great time

Earlier this summer, Hannah, Mia and Pia, who often share glimpses of their glamorous lifestyles on social media, took to Instagram to share they were joining the show.

Alongside a sizzling snap of the girls in the Dominican Republic, where the Essex-based show filmed special episodes, Mia penned: 'Brunette Trio. So happy to be working with my 2 best friends that are more like sisters.

'17 years of friendship, we've done everything together and so much more to come! Love you both to the moon and back. So excited for our new chapter [sic]'.

According to The Sun, Mia only wanted to partake in the show if she could do so alongside her friends, with a source explaining: 'As soon as bosses met all three of them, they knew they were onto a winner.

Cute: The pair could be seen holding hands at one point

Smooch: Junaid planted a kiss on his pal's cheek as they greeted one another

Chatting: They seemed to be deep in conversation

'They are a force to be reckoned with and will bring so much drama to the new series. They know some of the cast already and there is beef between some of them, so expect some explosive telly.'

It has been said that the original plan was for the newbies to join the cast after the episodes abroad had been filmed, but that has now changed.

The insider added: 'It was a no-brainer to get the girls out in the sunshine and make a big impact on the opening episodes of the new series. Sparks are already flying and it will be great TV.'

It comes after cast member Yazmin Oukhellou survived a car accident that killed boyfriend Jake McLean in early July.

Adorable: Junaid and Ella put on a tactile display during the day out

Woah! Ella was surrounded by collection of bright pink balloons and wrapped presents

What a pair! Danni Imbert and Harry Derbidge soaked up the sun beside one another

Legs for days: Danni looked sensational as she kicked out her toned pins

She was a passenger in the vehicle which plunged 70ft off a cliff in Turkish port city Bodrum on July 3, leaving her with severe injuries - including a broken arm.

The crash took place at around 4.30am and investigators established that the car, driven by McLean, hurtled around 70 feet over a left turn bend and landed in a ravine almost 30 feet below.

Jake was pronounced dead at the scene while Yazmin was rushed to hospital, where she underwent treatment for her injured arm.

He and Yazmin were driving in a blue Mercedes E class saloon along a windy, mountainous road between the coastal city of Bodrum and the seaside town of Yalikavak as they returned from a night out.

Gang: Harry, Danni and Junaid (L-R) posed for a beaming group snap

Posing: Junaid looked stylish in a white shirt and matching shorts while completing his look with comfy white socks and black slides

Smiling: The three-piece grinned from ear-to-ear at photographers

Eye-popping: Harry commanded attention in a black shirt with unmissable khaki camo prints

She severed an artery and a nerve during the accident- with UK doctors warning that she may never have full use of her right arm again.

During the crash, the TV personality deliberately broke her trapped arm to escape the scene and rush for help - while partner Jake lay unconscious.

With doctors telling her it's a 'miracle' she's still alive following her brush with the 'notorious' crash spot, Yazmin opened up to The Sun about the experience upon returning to the UK.

Admitting she is unable to sleep without her mother Lisa by her side following the ordeal, the traumatised star shared her inability to comprehend surviving when Jake did not.

Emerging: Amber Turner and her boyfriend Dan Edgar put on a united display amid recent drama

Confident: Amber displayed her enviable physique in a nude maxi dress while accessorising with orange-tinted aviator shades

Strong: They appeared to be as smitten as ever despite being recently rocked by claims that Dan said he had 'always wanted a piece' of Ella

Dapper: Newcomer Jordan Brook looked great in a black T-shirt and matching shorts

Beaming: Jordan put on a beaming display

She said: 'I severed an artery and a nerve, that's why I bled so much. The doctors called me an angel, a miracle, because it's a notorious spot and people have never survived. Now I'm just wondering how the hell did my partner die while I've survived? It's made me look at life totally differently.

Yazmin continued: 'I am definitely going to need therapy for a while, and I'm going to try some in-patient treatment too. I know this will live with me forever, I need to take it slowly.'

'I could have been like Jake and not survived so I'm just very grateful and lucky that if that's the worst case scenario, I will deal with it as best I can. The scarring that I have is awful so I will always have that as a reminder. But at least I'm still alive,' she explained.

Dressed up: Former Love Island star Elma Pazar left little to the imagination as she exposed her underboob in a skimpy black bra top

Sizzling: She sent temperatures soaring with the get-up

Fashion forward: She unzipped a camouflage onesie to flash her washboard abs

Larking about: She certainly blended in with some nearby foliage

Hilarious: Jordan couldn't contain his laughter as he joked with the fellow newcomer

As she continues to recover from the terrifying experience, Yazmin told how her emotions are 'very up and down' as she processes the grief of losing Jake.

She detailed how she had lost relatives in the past, including her beloved Nan last year, but no one who she's loved in an 'intimate way', admitting it's 'very difficult'.

The television personality had been on holiday with Jake in the resort of Bodrum where the terrifying incident took place, as the pair were currently 'off' but had taken the trip to reconcile.

But Yazmin now fears she may be banned from her boyfriend's funeral over tensions with his family, as his mum, Anita Walsh, believes an argument between Jake and Yazmin could have contributed to the crash.

While the reality star denies reports of a bust up and claims the trip made things 'perfect' between her and Jake, an Assistant Prosecutor who cannot be named under Turkish Law told MailOnline on July 6: 'We have spoken with Jake's mother and she has told us that something was going on in the car that distracted him.

'She does not believe that this accident was caused by his poor driving. She said that he is a very skilled and experienced driver and would not have lost control of the car like this.'

Prosecutors are investigating whether Jake was drink-driving, while the on-off couple argued outside a club at 3am, shortly before Sunday's crash.
Alice Evans has shared a post reflecting on her appearance after reading a comment from a troll who told her she was 'stunning in her twenties'.

The actress, 54, admitted the remark made her ponder over whether she was a 'monster' now, but insisted she didn't think her looks were 'that bad'.

It comes after she posted about being 'fat and horrible' compared to her ex Ioan Gruffudd's new girlfriend Bianca Wallace, in a now-deleted post that risked violating his restraining order against her.

Offended: Alice Evans has shared a post reflecting on her appearance after reading a comment from a troll who told her she was 'stunning in her twenties'

Alice explained that she had read the opinion and originally thought it was a 'nice thing' to say, before wondering what it meant for her appearance now.

The mother of two, who said she rarely reads comments about herself, said: 'So yesterday I happened to read a comment about myself that said 'but she was STUNNING in her twenties though'

'See this is why you shouldn't read comments (and I rarely rarely do. Masochism isn't my thing).

Thoughts: The actress, 54, admitted the remark made her ponder over whether she was a 'monster' now, but insisted she didn't think her looks were 'that bad'

'Because although I was initially thankful to the person for saying such a nice thing, I then started to wonder. But WHAT SORT OF A MONSTER MUST I BE NOW??

'So earlier on I was trying out some different light angles and make-up to shoot a Cameo request, almost scared to look back at them (although I have to. This is my job at the moment!)'

Reflecting on her verdict after checking out the clip, she said: ''And weirdly- they weren't THAT bad! Ladies! Let's embrace ageing in whatever way we wish! Gracefully, disgracefully, surgically or non. Friends and haters - This is 54!!!!!

Reflecting: Alice explained that she had read the opinion and originally thought it was a 'nice thing' to say, before wondering what it meant for her appearance now

Rise to fame: Alice pictured at Palais des Festivals in Cannes in 1999 aged 31

Admitting she had slightly tweaked the snaps, she said: 'Yes I know they're good angles and I have make up on and I removed some dry skin and weirdly long nose hairs I hadn't noticed.

'But still. F**k it. As long as you never leave the phone camera on front facing abs accidentally open it looking down, none of us are doing that badly really!

'Love you all. Even the haters!'

Reflecting on her verdict after checking out the clip, she said: ''And weirdly- they weren't THAT bad! Ladies! Let's embrace ageing in whatever way we wish! Gracefully, disgracefully, surgically or non. Friends and haters - This is 54!!!!!'

It comes a day after Alice risked violating her restraining order from her estranged husband Ioan, 48, after once again taking to social media to post about their separation.

She claimed she was being gaslit and being called 'fat' and 'horrible' compared to 'B' - taken to mean Ioan's new girlfriend Bianca Wallace.

This goes against the terms of the restraining order obtained by Ioan which bans Alice from mentioning him on social media for three years.

Illegal: It comes a day after Alice risked violating her restraining order from her estranged husband Ioan after once again taking to social media to post about their separation

The Welsh actor had hoped the new restrictions would end the public falling out between the pair, whose acrimonious split in March 2021 and consequent slanging matches threatened to overshadow their respective careers.

But Alice took to her Instagram on Monday morning, to write: 'I'm working out to try to calm myself down because I am being GASLIT. Freaking GASLIT.

'With my kids, with the places I usually go to. Everything. I can't leave the house without being photographed and told that I am fat and horrible whereas 'B' is so slim.

Accusations: The mother-of-two, 54, claimed she was being gaslit and being called 'fat' and 'horrible' compared to 'B' - taken to mean Ioan's new girlfriend Bianca Wallace

She signed off: ' I cannot deal for much longer.'

Ioan had previously won a temporary restraining order against Alice the mother of his two daughters Ella, 12, and Elsie, eight, in February claiming he was inundated with messages and verbal threats from her.

But on Tuesday, a U.S. judge confirmed harsher restrictions had been put in place, including a ruling preventing Alice from leaking private text messages from their children.

Violation: This goes against the terms of the restraining order obtained by Ioan which bans Alice from mentioning him on social media for three years (pictured with Bianca in August)

A source said: 'Ioan had no choice but to up his legal fight over Alice.

'She had become increasingly volatile and seemingly intent on destroying his career with her character assassination. He hopes this will put an end to it.'

Ioan was in attendance inside the LA court to witness the Domestic Violence Restraining Order granted, but Alice did not appear.

In new court documents, Ioan claimed Alice continued to cause him issues and wanted additional provisions added to the existing restraining order.

Order: He demanded Alice should not make any posts on any social media account, 'including but not limited to Instagram and Twitter accounts, disparaging or harassing [Ioan] or the other protected person'

He demanded Alice should not make any posts on any social media account, 'including but not limited to Instagram and Twitter accounts, disparaging or harassing [Ioan] or the other protected person.'

The other person is listed as Ioan's new girlfriend, Bianca, who he started dating shortly after their split.

Plus, he requested Alice not to post his text messages or any other communications to the parties' children, or the children's text messages or any other communications to Ioan, on any social media account.

He also asked for the judge to order Alice not to contact his employer or make disparaging statements about him to his employers.

Further in court documents, Ioan said since the restraining order was put in place, Alice 'has used her social media accounts to continue to harass, threaten, and disturb the peace of both me and my girlfriend, Bianca Wallace.'

Father: Fantastic Four actor Gruffudd filed for joint custody of his two daughters Elsie, eight, and Ella, 12, after his estranged wife, Evans filed for sole custody

Last month, The Vampire Diaries actress Alice shared a screenshot appearing to be between Ioan and one of his daughters, who is thought to be asking him to sign paperwork so that she can stay at her school  amid allegations that he stopped paying her fees.

Alice told her 86,000 Instagram followers: 'You see  I have no money.

'I gave up my career because I wanted the love of my life to have an amazing career and that leaves him being away most of the time.

'And I gritted my teeth and I got through it. I missed working' oh hell I missed working' but I didn't want a day to go by without seeing my two incredible girls. So their was an upside.'

Calling out Ioan's alleged spending habits, she continued: 'He is STILL trying to ruin my name, filling out petition after petition  daring to say that I am the 'bad parent'?

Declaration: Ioan went public with his actress girlfriend Bianca in October last year and was captioned: 'Thank you for making me smile again'

'(Check out his Guardian interview from 2020. Ask my kids. As anybody that knows us. Being called a 'bad parent' when I gave up everything for them and don't sleep at night in case and worry about how to feed them, check their health, take them to the dentist. [sic].

'Those of you who might think 'well why is she CONTINUING to post on Instagram when his lawyers are going to take her down for it?' But think about it.

'He is spending money that should have gone to the girls education, sports, college, on using a lawyer to gag me.

'I don't have this money and neither do I believe in the corruption of the TRO to shut somebody up when they're trying to say their piece,' she penned. 'HE gets to say it. HE get to to lie about me being a bad parent (You couldn't get further from the truth.)

'But me? I get threatened with fines, with jail if I tell MY TRUTH about what is really happening. And all I have is social media because I can't afford a lawyer. Isn't that a microcosm of rich and poor America? I will likely go to court for posting this. (Another example of the way he treats his children).'

Alice added: 'He may well be lauded for doing the right thing. For going through the courts. He may well get to take my kids away from me (good luck with that dude).'

The previous month in June, Alice claimed she was 'completely out of money for food and bills' while sharing a video of daughter Elsie.

She wrote: 'Trying to hold it all together whilst being threatened, completely out of money for food and bills and just found out somebody tried to break down our outside door last night!

'But it's all worth it for this (and the one who doesn't want to be photographed.'

Ioan and Alice met on the set of 102 Dalmatians in 2000 and married seven years later.

The Welsh actor filed for divorce in March 2021 citing irreconcilable differences as the reason behind their split.

The document, which was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on March 1, revealed the former couple separated on New Year's Day - a month before they went public with their relationship status.

Ioan went Instagram official with new girlfriend Bianca last October with a post saying: 'Thank you for making me smile again.'

Alice reacted furiously, ranting: 'So it turns out my husband, after two years of telling me I'm a bad person and I'm not exciting and he no longer wants to have sex with me . . . has been in a relationship for three years behind my back.'
It has finally happened. It is perhaps a record of sorts in Independent India. The Cabinet expansion in Maharashtra, which has taken place on Tuesday, August 9, 40 days after the installation of the Eknath Shinde-Devendra Fadnavis government, is a reminder that the BJP and the splinter group of the Shiv Sena are virtually walking in a minefield.

With the inclusion of nine members each from the BJP and the Shinde faction, the Cabinet now has a strength of 20, including the CM. The Opposition was quick to point out the failure to include even a single woman in the expansion when Maharashtra is known to be a progressive state.

The expansion took place at a time when the coalition faced a moment like aage bhi jaane na tu, piche bhi jaane na tu. This is because the BJP as well as the Shinde Sena faction had become the butt of ridicule for carrying on the business of government with just two members  the chief minister and his deputy.

Dear IKEA, Maharashtra needs a Cabinet, a concerned citizen wrote on Twitter last week, to sarcastically highlight the sorry (as well as comic) state of affairs in the state after the political roller-coaster seen a month back. The anguish was over the fact that there appeared nothing to be happening fit and proper in the premier state where the problems of the ordinary citizen were mounting by the day.

The Opposition parties too had exploited the situation to the hilt to target the BJP and the Eknath Shinde faction where it hurt the most. More powers given to the departmental secretaries pending the reshuffle had also sent out a wrong signal.

The expansion shows that despite Mr Shinde being the CM, the government will be dominated by the BJP, which has not only got the numbers on its side but also experienced leaders from diverse regions and backgrounds.

Girish Mahajan, who is known to be close to Mr Fadnavis, was a certainty, as well as state BJP president Chandrakant Patil, who is known to have a close rapport with Union home minister Amit Shah.

Sudhir Mungantiwar is a senior state leader and former finance minister hailing from the Vidarbha region. Atul Save, whose father was a former Shiv Sena MP, is among the prominent faces from Marathwada region accommodated by the BJP. This region is a Shiv Sena stronghold where the BJP is seeking to make inroads. Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil is a veteran of sorts  hailing from the family in Ahmednagar district which started the first sugar cooperative in Asia some 75 years back. Mangal Prabhat Lodha is a prominent developer in the country.

The exclusion of Ashish Shelar indicates he may be tipped to be the next state BJP chief, succeeding Mr Patil. It suits the BJP fine as Mr Shelar hails from Mumbai where the party has to take on the Shiv Sena head on in the civic polls which are due soon. He is also one of the prominent Maratha faces of the BJP.

As compared to the BJP, the Shinde faction lacks depth in its ministerial order. But the chief minister has sought to make the best use of the talent available to him. Ministerships for Abdul Sattar and Sanjay Rathod could, however, cause some controversy. Only last year, BJP had secured success in its demand for the resignation of Mr Rathod as forest minister in the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi government after the death by suicide by a young woman in Pune.

It needs to be understood that the group of 40-odd MLAs led by Mr Shinde that parted ways with the Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena is a motley crowd that has come together only for the sake of power.

The carrot of further expansion of the ministry has been kept dangling and is expected to make matters cool at least for the next few months.

Extreme caution is the key as the government faces a tricky situation not only as regards the courts but also in regard to the cohesion between the coalition partners and also within them; and a step here or a step there could lead to trouble.

But the biggest concern is that the Supreme Court is yet to decide on a clutch of petitions filed by the Shiv Sena and the Shinde faction on various issues leading to the formation of the government. If the Shiv Senas pleas are accepted, the breakaway MLAs could also face disqualification. The issue of which is the real Shiv Sena is also pending before the Election Commission, which has been asked by the court against taking any action till it decides the case. Since there are several ticklish issues involved, it is unclear when the court will pronounce its verdict. A section of legal experts feel that the government is walking on thin ice.

The beleaguered Shiv Sena and Mr Thackeray are fighting with their backs to the wall to damage the splinter group as well as the BJP, but it will be a Herculean task. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and home minister Amit Shah are past masters in the political game.

Whatever might be the claims and counter-claims of either side, the developments and signals over the past month show that the BJP is playing big brother and Devendra Fadnavis is the main power center, despite him being deputy CM. The remote control lies with Delhi, which is determined to finish the Shiv Sena politically.

Having succeeded in overthrowing the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, the BJP is trying methodically to grow its footprint, and the Cabinet expansion is proof of that.

The BJPs plans could become clearer once the portfolio allocation is complete, but it is expected it will keep all the heavyweight ministries, including home, finance, urban development, to itself, and the Shinde faction will have to be content with the passenger ministries.

As the BJP sets its house in order in Maharashtra, it must be a bitter-sweet feeling. As it stabilises matters in Maharashtra by the expansion of the two-member Cabinet, things are falling apart in faraway Bihar.

In Patna, JD(U) leader and chief minister Nitish Kumar has dumped the BJP which he suspected was trying to promote a Shinde in the form of former Union minister R.C.P. Singh, a friend-turned-foe of Nitish. In an irony of sorts for the BJP, Bihar might see a Maha Vikas Aghadi-type experiment, with Nitish Kumar trying to cobble together an alliance with the RJD, Congress and other like-minded parties.
She's no doubt ruffled a few feathers among her TOWIE co-stars after branding the show's newcomers 'desperate' and amid rumours of tension with Ella Rae Wise.

Yet Amber Turner looked more confident than ever as she arrived at filming for the new series in Brentwood on Monday.

The influencer, 29, was joined by her boyfriend Dan Edgar, with the couple cuddling up close for photographs.

Confident: TOWIE's Amber Turner displayed her hourglass curves in a fitted nude dress as she joined boyfriend Dan Edgar at filming on Monday after hitting out at 'desperate' show newbies

Amber looked effortlessly stylish on the outing as she slipped her hourglass curves into a figure-hugging nude midaxi dress paired with Louis Vuitton sliders.

The blonde bombshell added to the glamour with a pair of oversized orange-tinted shades and carried a small black handbag.

Looking dapper by her side was her boyfriend of four years, Dan, 32, who donned a plain black T-shirt and shorts.

Stunning: Amber looked effortlessly stylish on the outing as she slipped her hourglass curves into a figure-hugging nude midaxi dress paired with Louis Vuitton sliders

Chic: The blonde bombshell added to the glamour with a pair of oversized orange-tinted shades and carried a small black handbag

The couple, who have been together for four years, seemed in good spirits at the filming, despite rumours of tension in the group.

Last month, Amber hit out at 'desperate newbies' in the The Only Way Is Essex cast, claiming some of the friendships are 'fake for the camera'.

She blasted newcomers to the show, branding them 'desperate for stories', noting that she is often targeted at the receiving end of this.

The new series sees Elma Pazar, Junaid Ahmed, Mia Sully, Hannah Voyen and Pia Smith join the cast.

Delightful duo: Looking dapper by her side was her boyfriend of four years, Dan, 32, who donned a plain black T-shirt and shorts

In an exclusive chat with MailOnline, Amber explained: 'I dont think the new castmembers have got genuine friendships. It is all fake for camera. Or the show is starting so everyone starts seeing each other for a few weeks to look like they are a solid group.'

Dubbing herself 'a target' for TOWIE newcomers, she added: 'People are desperate for stories. With me I am always a target, If they come for me they will get a reaction - It might be a s**t story but they will get a story'

Amber was also recently rocked by claims that her boyfriend Dan was 'flirting' with co-star Ella, 21, who's 11 years his junior, during an Essex night out.

Awkward: Last month, Amber hit out at 'desperate newbies' in the The Only Way Is Essex cast. The new series sees Elma Pazar (pictured) Junaid Ahmed, Mia Sully, Hannah Voyen and Pia Smith join the cast

Ella sent a voice note to friends that circulated in Essex claiming Dan has always fancied her, and once Amber heard the message, she was furious, a TOWIE insider claimed.

The insider revealed: 'Amber couldn't believe what she was hearing.

'She lives with Dan, they have been together for years and share a dog, she thought they had moved on from Essex rumours and gossip.

'To be confronted with this all during filming for the new series in the Dominican Republic was hard for her too, she didn't expect to be at the forefront of another storyline about her relationship.'
He first became the face of the men's scent in 2015.

And now, Johnny Depp, 59, has reportedly signed back with Dior to continue being the face of their Sauvage cologne in a multi-year deal worth millions.

According to a report, he signed on the dotted line for a seven-figure sum and already has new promotional photos ready for a new campaign, while his legal woes with ex-wife Amber Heard, 36, continue.

Back at it: Johnny Depp, 59, has reportedly signed back with Dior to continue being the face of Sauvage cologne in a multi-year deal worth millions (Pictured in the original 2015 campaign)

According to TMZ, Johnny inked the new deal to continue fronting the fragrance after fashion photographer Greg Williams attended one of Johnny and Jeff Beck's gigs in Paris.

The publication claims that before and after the concert, Johnny did a photo shoot with Greg, with the resulting artwork set to be be used in a new Dior advertising campaign.

MailOnline has contacted Johnny Depp's representatives for comment.

Dior stood by Johnny throughout his recent trial, and sales of the cologne he advertises, Sauvage, rose at retailers, the Wall Street Journal reported in early June.

The publication stated that the cosmetics retailer and its competitor Ulta have both seen increasing sales for Depp's cologne, making it among their top-selling fragrances online.

Ready to go! According to a report, he signed on the dotted line for a seven-figure sum and already has new promotional photos ready for a new campaign

Signature scent: Dior stood by Johnny throughout his recent trial, and sales of the cologne he advertises, Sauvage, rose at retailers, the Wall Street Journal reported in early June

Meanwhile, Johnny is still entangled in legal battles with his Amber Heard - as the actress fights to overturn a court's June settlement against her.

He was awarded $10.35 million for damages after a defamation suit against his ex-wife.

But The Aquaman actress has appealed for the award to be overturned, two months after she was ordered to pay.

Amber was denied a request for a mistrial a week before, arguing that one of the jurors on the case shouldn't have been eligible to serve because his summons was intended for his father, who had the same name and lived at the same address.

And since appealing, Depp has also made an appeal against the $2 million (1.7 million) in compensatory damages that he was ordered to pay to her.

Legal woes: It comes after Johnny was awarded $10.35m for damages after a defamation suit against ex-wife Amber Heard - which the actress has now appealed

Following their divorce, the actor was said to be in financial turmoil, as he sold up a large portion of his sizeable property portfolio.

In 2016, he listed his four-story Venetian mansion which overlooks Venice's Grand Canal for $10.8 million - after paying $13 million for it in January 2011.

While 2017 saw him sell the last of his five LA penthouses, which gathered up a whopping $10.88 million - around $2 million under the collective asking price.

And it didn't stop there: He let go of his Kentucky ranch-style pad in 2020 for nearly nearly half its cash value - as he only raked in $1,350,000, despite it's worth being reported at $2.33 million.

While his downtown Los Angeles penthouse, which he shared with Heard, also went on the market last month for $1.76 million.

Johnny also recently offloaded his debut artwork collection, selling 750 limited-edition pieces for a whopping $3.6 million (3 million) in total, through Castle Fine Art.
Kim Kardashian has posed in some sexy metallic latex workout ensembles for a new campaign with Beats By Dre as she gets back to business following her recent split from Pete Davidson.

Kim and Beats have joined forced to collaborate on a new wireless earbud collection for Beats Fit Pro called Beats X Kim, and will cost 199.99 a pop.

Kim, 41, said; 'I wanted to break away from the idea that headphones have to be colorful to make a statement.

Tech meets fashion: Kim Kardashian wore metallic latex to promote a new Beats By Dre campaign as they joined forces for a new wireless earbuds collection following her shock split from Pete Davidson

Kim, 41, said; 'I wanted to break away from the idea that headphones have to be colorful to make a statement' as she created three new neutral shades

'This collaboration is special because it allows you to blend in or stand out, and Beats is known for creating products that showcase individuality.'

And in a behind the scenes video, Kim added that the headphones were a 'game changer' for her but that she wanted a model in a 'neutral tone.'

Wearing a silver latex ensemble, she said: 'Since you're wearing something every day. I wanted something to be able to blend in. I've never seen any tech products, particularly headphones in neutral colours.

Ab fab: Kim showed off her toned tummy as she demonstrated how her new colourways match her everyday fashion looks

Kim said: 'I found an artist that would paint the headphones and then I thought, why wouldn't I just go directly to Beats and show them some of the samples I was just creating for fun'

She added: 'They didn't have a product like that out there before. I was just bringing my creative concept and my colour palette to a brand that I've always respected and loved'

'I found an artist that would paint the headphones and then I thought, why wouldn't I just go directly to Beats and show them some of the samples I was just creating for fun.

'They didn't have a product like that out there before. I was just bringing my creative concept and my colour palette to a brand that I've always respected and loved.

'And when we reached out, they understood the vision right away. There's nothing better and more gratifying than seeing a final product and it being exactly what you envisioned.

'I think I would just want people to understand that this is also a fashion accessory that's usable and user friendly and it doesn't have to be anything loud. It can just blend in with what you are wearing. It's kind of a statement.

Check them out: Kim models the new neutral range which come in M oon (light), Dune (medium) and Earth (deep) and the range will be available for purchase online Tuesday, August 16, at Apple.com/kim and in stores on Wednesday, August 17

She said: 'Whether it's music or your conversations or your work life, or you're running around and you have your Fit Pros in, I just feel like life is so crazy, everything else should just be really simple'

'Whether it's music or your conversations or your work life, or you're running around and you have your Fit Pros in, I just feel like life is so crazy, everything else should just be really simple,'

Kim models the new neutral range which come in Moon (light), Dune (medium) and Earth (deep) and the range will be available for purchase online Tuesday, August 16, at Apple.com/kim and in stores on Wednesday, August 17.

While Kim gets back to business, her ex Pete Davidson has been seeing a therapist for 'trauma therapy' after months of online harassment from Kanye West over his relationship with Kim.

The comedian and actor, 28, is said to have decided to 'seek out help' after Kanye, 45, made numerous threatening posts about him on social media, including claiming he was 'dead' in a celebratory fake newspaper page after they recently split.

The former Saturday Night Live star is said to have found the 'attention and negativity' coming from the rapper a 'trigger' and has been receiving trauma therapy since April.

The news comes after Dailymail.com's exclusive story in which a source said Kim found Kanye's Instagram post on Monday - an image of a fake New York Times newspaper with the headline 'Skete Davidson dead at age 28' - 'appalling'.

Kim is said to have been 'vigorously defending Pete' and 'won't stand for this type of behavior' from her ex-husband, the source told Dailymail.com of the post, which Kanye later removed.

A source told People on Monday: 'He has been in trauma therapy in large part [due to Kanye].

'The attention and negativity coming from Kanye and his antics is a trigger for [Pete], and he's had to seek out help.'

In spite of the situation, Pete is said to have 'no regrets' about his nine month relationship with Kim.

The insider added: '[Pete] has no regrets for dating Kim and wants it to be made very clear that she's been nothing but supportive of him throughout their relationship...

'Moving forward he just wants to focus on his career.

Both reps for Kim and Pete contacted Instagram to report the post, a source told People, noting that 'his team and Kim's have reached out repeatedly to Instagram asking to make the platform a safer space.'

They don't come cheap: The earbuds cost 199,99 in the UK

Big business: Apple acquired Beats Electronics in 2014 in a $3 billion deal with the company's founders Dr Dre and Jimmy Iovine

Pete has 'been absent from social media' as result of frequent attacks from Kanye, an insider told the outlet.

Kim and Pete split last week after struggling to make their schedules and the distance work as he is currently filming in Australia.

The couple had been dating for nine months after their romance began in October 2021 off the back of Kim hosting Saturday Night Live.

A source said 'part of the reason they split was because of their busy schedules,' as 'they both travel all the time and it was hard.'

The trauma therapy did not lead to the split, a Kardashian source told People, as 'she's upset about the breakup'.

The market: Beats Electronics is best known for its 'Beats by Dr Dre' line of trendy headphones that compete with other consumer electronics companies, including Skullcandy, Sennheiser Electronic and Bose

Wow! The Beats Fit Pro pulls many features from its predecessor, Beats Studio Buds, like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), plus Apples H1 chip for fast pairing with Apple devices and Hey Sir

Make it simple: They come with a charging case that mirrors the PowerBeats Pro

A source close to the star told DailyMail.com of Kanye's 'Skete is dead' post on Monday: 'Kim won't stand for this. She is demanding that Kanye take the post down, but he won't.

'She has been vigorously defending Pete. She'll never get back together with Kanye over the way he's treated the people she loves and respects.

'She has tried incredibly hard to have a good co-parenting situation for the children. She won't stand for this type of behavior from him.'

Kim and Kanye have four children together, North, nine, Saint, six, Chicago, four, and Psalm, three, and have been co-parenting since she filed for divorce in January 2021.

The source added: 'Kim and Kanye's divorce is still moving ahead. She thinks that people should not be ok with this post  and Instagram should not allow this type of harassment.

Trigger: Pete Davidson has been seeing a therapist for 'trauma therapy' after months of online harassment from Kanye West over his relationship with Kim (pictured in May)

'Appalling': Kim, 41, found Kanye's Instagram post on Monday - an image of a fake New York Times newspaper with the headline 'Skete Davidson dead at age 28' - 'appalling'

It's over: Kim and Pete split last week after struggling to make their schedules and the distance work as he is currently filming in Australia

Speaking out: Kanye (pictured in May) made numerous threatening posts about Pete on social media, including claiming he was 'dead' in a celebratory fake newspaper page

'Kim has been very sad about the breakup with Pete  it's not where she thought it would be and that's been hard for her.

'The distance and schedules weighed into their decision but they do love and respect each other. She will always care for him and have his back.'

Meanwhile, Kim's latest project is likely to be a big earner for her.

She was first pictured wearing a pair of purple Beats Fit Pro earbuds while running errands in LA in October, before they were even announced.

Apple acquired Beats Electronics in 2014 in a $3 billion deal with the company's founders Dr Dre and Jimmy Lovine.

Beats Electronics is best known for its 'Beats by Dr Dre' line of trendy headphones that compete with other consumer electronics companies, including Skullcandy, Sennheiser Electronic and Bose.

The Beats Fit Pro pulls many features from its predecessor, Beats Studio Buds, like Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), plus Apples H1 chip for fast pairing with Apple devices and Hey Siri.

They come with a charging case that mirrors the PowerBeats Pro.

One step ahead: Kim was spotted wearing a pair of purple earbuds in November while running errands in Los Angeles before they were even announced

The new earbuds provide six hours of battery life with ANC or Transparency Mode turned on, or seven hours with Adaptive EQ, which adjust sound based on your listening environment and the fit of the earbuds - a feature in AirPods Pro and the new AirPods 3.

Combined with the charging case, users can get 27 to 30 hours of battery life.

The Beats Studio Buds were the first of the company's products to be truly Android-friendly and this is likely to carry over with the the Beast Fit Pro: quick pairing, battery levels and the Android Beats app includes custom controls.
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Tottie Goldsmith broke down in tears during an interview with A Current Affair on Tuesday as she spoke about her aunt Olivia Newton-John's final days.

The iconic Grease star died peacefully at the age of 73 at her home in southern California on Monday, surrounded by her family and friends.

Tottie, 59, revealed Olivia's health had deteriorated in the days leading up to her death after decades fighting breast cancer and was 'really skinny and unwell' in the days before her passing.

'It's not a shock, we've known how sick she's been, especially in the last five days,' she told host Tracy Grimshaw of her passing.

Tottie then went on to reveal her heart-wrenching final moments with Olivia, continuing: 'I couldn't get to America in time and I wanted to say goodbye, so I asked [her husband John] if he could hold the phone up to her ear... But he got me on FaceTime so I managed to see her.'

'I told her all the things I needed to say,' Tottie continued. 'She was leaving us... but I feel like she got it.'

Emotional: Olivia Newton-John's niece Tottie Goldsmith broke down in tears during an interview for Australia's A Current Affair on Tuesday, as she revealed the singer was 'really skinny and unwell' before her death aged 73

Happier times: The singer (pictured with the actress in January 2020) said the actress' health had deteriorated in the days leading up to her death after decades fighting breast cancer and was 'really skinny and unwell' in the days before her passing

Heartbroken: Fighting back tears, Tottie said the star's passing 'wasn't a shock' because she had been sick 'especially in the past five days' after her passing was announced on Monday following a decades-long battle with cancer

Tottie went on to reflect on Olivia's decades-long battle with cancer.

'There was one day at the Olivia Newtown John Centre and she was really skinny and unwell and I said to her, "Are you afraid of dying", and she said, "Plonker, I'm not afraid. I've done more in my life that I could have ever imagined."'

'She's struggled with a lot of pain and it's been a tough road,' Tottie added.

'It wasn't just the cancer that got her. It was other complications and being in a hospital with a very susceptible immune system.'

Tottie broke down into tears when she was asked what Olivia was most proud of in life.

Without skipping a beat she answered, 'Chloe', referring to the daughter she shares with ex-husband Matt Lattanzi.

'She loved that girl so much. Chloe's doing it really tough, but she's been amazing.'

At the end of the interview, Tottie said her family would accept Victorian premier Daniel Andrews' offer of a state funeral to celebrate Olivia's extraordinary life and legacy.

Breaking down: Tottie then went on to reveal her heart-wrenching final moments with Olivia, which took place over Facetime as she was unable to fly to the US in time to be at her bedside

'I couldn't get to America in time and I wanted to say goodbye, so I asked [her husband John] if he could hold the phone up to her ear...' Tottie continued. 'But he got me on FaceTime so I managed to see her'

Tottie is best known for her turn in the pop group, Chantoozies, who had hits with their songs Witch Queen, He's Gonna Step On You Again, Wanna Be Up, and Love the One You're With in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Her father Brian Goldsmith, a renowned night club owner and restaurateur in Melbourne, died in 2020. Her mother is Olivia's sister, Rona.

Tottie appeared with her aunt at G'day USA in LA in 2020 - where Olivia candidly spoke about beating her cancer.

'Gosh, life is a gift and I've had an amazing life and I intend to keep going with it and I want to help other people with cancer of course,' she told DailyMail.com in the January 2020 interview.

'I have my wellness centre in Melbourne and I want to see an end to cancer in my lifetime so other people don't have to suffer.'

Olivia was first diagnosed with the disease in 1992 but announced she had overcome the cancer in 2013, the year after her Wellness Center first opened, but in May 2017, she was told cancer had metastasized and spread to her bones.

Reflecting on her fight to beat the condition, she admitted: 'I don't see it as a battle. I don't think about it a lot, to be honest.

'Denial is a really good thing and I'm getting stronger and better all the time! I am doing well!...I am feeling wonderful.'

Farewell: On Friday Olivia shared on final heartbreaking post on Instagram on Friday just three days before she passed away

She also admitted that she had hope for her future, adding: 'I'm winning over and living with it well and that's how I see it.'

Newton-John also reflected on her delight at still being remembered for Grease more than four decades after its release.

She confessed: 'We did something very special together. That movie is still loved.'

She recalled how caring co-star John Travolta was during the filming of the musical romantic film.

Asked about her favourite memory on set, she relied: 'His kindness to me. When there was one scene in the movie  it was my close up, when Rizzo pulls me forward in the bonfire scene  and in the middle of my take, he stopped it and came over to me and whispered in my ear: "I think you can do better."

'So that's really generous. For an actor to do that for another actor. I wasn't as experienced as him. He was very nurturing and sweet.'

During that same event, lifelong friend Travolta praised her positive outlook on life, despite her health worries.

He said: 'Olivia is a survivor and she's smart and she's got a lot of life in her and I think she looks at it from the glass half full always and that's her beautiful, natural approach towards life and I think we all need to do that.'

In memory: Newton-John's Instagram was mostly made up of flashback posts from throughout her career, but on April 18 the star shared a rare candid photo of herself with a beaming smile beside a bed of sunflowers

Sad news: Olivia's husband announced her death on her Facebook page on Monday. She was 73

On Friday Olivia shared on final heartbreaking post on Instagram just three days before she passed away.

The British-Australian actress and singer had shared a happy throwback photo with her beloved husband John Easterling, 70, simply writing: 'Flashback Friday' but made no reference to her health struggles.

Olivia was last pictured on April 18 when she stood in front of a backdrop of sunflowers in her garden, while smiling from ear-to-ear.

She had written: 'Wishing everyone a Happy Easter on this beautiful Spring day.'

Iconic role: Olivia is most known for her famous role as Sandy in the 1978 movie Grease (pictured, Newton-John with Grease co-star John Travolta)

Blast from the past! Olivia's iconic sweet-to-sexy transformation was recreated for years to come in costumes and tributes

Newton-John famously resisted the part of Sandy in the 1978 movie Grease. She was 28 at the time and thought she was too old to play a fresh-faced high school student

Dynamic dup: Olivia famously starred opposite John in the iconic 1978 movie Grease that catapulted her to Hollywood stardom. He was among the first to pay tribute to her on Monday

Hollywood has mourned one of its brightest stars with tributes pouring in from all across the globe. One of the star's first high-profile friends to pay tribute was her Grease co-star John Travolta.

'My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible. I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again,' he captioned an Instagram post alongside a photo of Newton-John.

'Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever! Your Danny, your John!'

Among other tributes included Australian singer Delta Goodrem, who honoured her beloved 'mentor and friend'.

Delta, 37, shared pictures of herself hugging Olivia and said she was 'like family' to her.

'I love you forever,' Delta wrote in her moving post. 'The whole world will feel this heartbreak today because the entire world felt Olivia's unmatched light. A force for good. A force of nature. Strong and kind.'

'My mentor, my friend, my inspiration, someone who always guided me she was always there for me. Family to me.'

She added: 'I don't have all the words I would like to say today but I hope everyone will join in celebrating our beloved Olivia, her heart, soul, talent, courage, grace I love you forever .'

The Lost Without You songstress famously played the Aussie icon in the 2018 TV miniseries, Olivia Newton-John: Hopelessly Devoted to You.

Heartbreaking: Grease co-star John Travolta was among the first to pay tribute to Newton-John writing: 'your Danny, your John' under a photo (above) of the star

Poignant: John wrote this touching caption alongside the beautiful throwback image of his co-star

Kylie Minogue shared a throwback photo of herself and Olivia side by side at the Royal Bicentennial Concert. Kylie appears to be starstruck by the Grease star, as she looks on at her idol.

Singer Dionne Warwick, 81, wrote 'Another angelic voice has been added to the Heavenly Choir. Not only was Olivia a dear friend, but one of the nicest people I had the pleasure of recording and performing with. I will most definitely miss her. She now Rests in the Arms of the Heavenly Father.'

Brooke Shields, 57, shared a lovely black and white photo of her and Olivia to Instagram, writing: 'A true class act whose light shines everywhere she went... she inspired us all.'

'A wonderful mother and wife, who was grace and strength personified. Sending all of my love to Olivias family and friends. She'll never be forgotten.'

Deepest condolences: In a sweet Instagram tribute, Kylie Minogue, 54, shared a throwback photo of the pair in 1988. 'I have loved and looked up to Olivia Newton-John. And, I always will,'

Heartbroken: Delta Goodrem paid tribute to her beloved 'mentor and friend' Olivia Newton-John after the Grease star's death at the age of 73 following a lengthy cancer fight

'A force of nature': Delta shared this sweet caption alongside the black and white image of herself with Olivi

All-stars: Nicole Kidman, 55, (left) and her husband Keith Urban, 54, (right) paid tribute to the beloved Olivia (centre) on Tuesday

The couple shared photos of themselves with their long-time friend and Aussie icon in happier times. One of the snaps showed Nicole with her arm around Olivia as they attended the second Annual Penfolds Gala Black Tie Dinner at the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles in 2005

Scarface star Michelle Pfeiffer, 64, posted a photo of her and Olivia writing 'Thank you for your art and talent you gifted us all so graciously with. You will be so greatly missed.'

Dancing With The Stars pro Peta Murgatroyd, 36, shared an Instagram Story, writing: 'This has done me over today. An Aussie icon and legend, there will never be another. This is so tragic. RIP the beloved Sandy.'

She wrote: 'Since I was ten years old, I have loved and looked up to Olivia Newton John. And, I always will. She was and always will be, an inspiration to me in so many, many ways. My deepest condolences to her family and loved ones. x ONJ4EVER.'

Nicole Kidman and her husband Keith Urban paid tribute to the beloved Olivia. The couple shared photos of themselves with their long-time friend and Aussie icon in happier times.

'Livvie brought the most divine light into the world,'Nicole, 55, captioned the pictures on Instagram.

She continued, 'So much love, joy, inspiration and kindness, and we will always be hopelessly devoted to you,' in reference to the song Olivia recorded for the Grease soundtrack.

One of the snaps showed Nicole with her arm around Olivia as they attended the second Annual Penfolds Gala Black Tie Dinner at the Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles in 2005.

The same year, the Grease star was spotted with Keith's, 54, arm around her at the 39th Annual Country Music Awards in New York.

Elton John, 75, shared a picture of himself with Olivia as he spoke about her courage.

RIP: Barbra Streisand shared this throwback image of herself wIth Olivia and wrote that she was 'too young to leave this world'

Rest in peace: Fellow actor Antonio Banderas also paid tribute to Olivia via social media

He wrote: 'The saddest of news to wake up to. Olivia was a beautiful and courageous woman, who I never heard complain about her illness. A beautiful voice and a warm and loving friend. I will miss her so much. Condolences to her family and loved ones.'

Bindi Irwin shared a photo of herself holding the iconic actress' hand during a charity event and wrote: 'One of the kindest and most wonderful souls the world has ever known.'

'Love and Light ONJ. You were a true icon and I absolutely adored you,' Rebel Wilson also said.

Barbra Streisand wrote on Instagram: 'Too young to leave this world. May she RIP.'

Antonio Banderas said: 'Rest in peace, Olivia Newton-John. Deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.'

Meanwhile, Richard Wilkins broke down on the Today show as he spoke about the death of his long-time friend.

Wilkins, 68, burst into tears as his last interview with Olivia was aired.

Today host Karl Stefanovic left his seat on the panel to comfort his colleague as he wiped away tears.

'I didn't want to do this,' Wilkins wept.

'It's alright,' Stefanovic said while hugging the presenter. 'This woman was extraordinary.'

Richard appeared on ITV's Good Morning Britain on Tuesday and revealed he had texted John to offer his condolences, and said he is understandably very cut up about her death.

He said: 'I texted John. One of the weird things about the job I do, when something like this happens - it is almost exactly 12 hours ago that I got the phone call from one of our producers who told us the horrible news.

'I will miss her so much': Elton shared a photo of himself and Olivia, calliing her a 'courageous woman' who he 'never heard complain about her illness'

Forever: Actress Elle Fanning, 24, posted a beautiful photo of the star writing: 'Forever icon'

True icon: Fellow Australian star Rebel Wilson, 42, wrote 'You were a true icon and I absolutely adored you!'

Inspiration: Yolanda Hadid, 58, shared a tribute on Instagram: 'Rest In Peace beautiful angel, it was an honor to know you,' adding, 'thank you for decades of inspiration

Special: Actress Goldie Hawn, 76, shared an iconic video of herself on stage with Olivia, Meryl Streep, Bette Midler, and Cher as they performed What A Wonderful World during an all-star charity concert in 1990 at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles

Homage: Her daughter Kate Hudson, 43, also paid homage to the legendary star, sharing a video of herself singing Hopelessly Devoted To You, first crooned by Newton-John's character, Sandy Olsson, in Grease (1978)

'You go to work, talk about Olivia all day and you find yourself reaching out to people. Most of the people around her who you would expect and like to hear from aren't ready to talk publicly, and such is the nature of social media that people can issue statements. But aside from that, a lot of people - John is heartbroken; he's too raw to talk.'

He added: 'They, of course, shared an enormously close bond after starring in one of the world's favourite movies together. Olivia leaves such a great hole in the world.

Australian singer Vanessa Amorosi became overcome with emotion on Tuesday after Olivia Newton-John's death, during a live interview on Sunrise.

The 41-year-old was chatting to hosts Natalie Barr and David 'Kochie' Koch about performing at the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham when she was asked about her memories with late Grease star Olivia.

Too hard to carry on: Australian singer Vanessa Amorosi cut short her live interview on Sunrise on Tuesday, as she learned the news of Olivia Newton-John's death and became overcome with emotion

Towards the end of the chat, Vanessa called time on the interview as she broke down in tears after a picture of herself, Olivia and Tina Arena flashed up on screen.

Peter Andre took to Instagram to share an image alongside Olivia when they performed in a charity concert together.

In the caption Peter, who has been starring in a West End revival of Grease, described Olivia as a 'warm, kind and loving person,' who 'spent time speaking to everyone backstage' after they worked together decades earlier.

Peter, who was among a slew of stars who paid tribute to Olivia, penned the caption: 'My sister Debbie just sent me this photo. The night of the Spina Bifida charity concert in Australia where I had the privilege to perform alongside Dame Olivia Newton John.

'This photo reminds me what a warm, kind and giving person she was. She smiled constantly and spent time speaking to everyone backstage. I will never forget it.'

Earlier that evening, Peter had shared another tribute to Olivia, adding in a poignant note that 'Grease would be very different for them now.'

Sharing a trio of images of Olivia throughout her life, the caption said: 'This has made me really really sad. I have had the privilege of meeting the incredible Olivia a few times and even worked with her on a special Spina Bifida concert in Australia.

Sweet: Peter Andre shared a touching throwback snap with Olivia Newton-John as he shared his memories of her

A tragedy! Earlier that evening, Peter had shared another tribute to Olivia, adding in a poignant note that 'Grease would be very different for them now'

Paying tribute: In the caption the star said Olivia 'lit up every room,' after it was announced on Monday she'd passed away following a battle with cancer

'She was lovely in every way. Always lit up the room. Thoughts with her family. RIP. Grease will feel very different for us now. #brave #strongwoman #iconic @therealonj #olivianewtonjohn #grease #letsgetphysical #xanadu #spinabifida.'

Shane Warne's ex-wife Simone Callahan shared a sweet tribute and posted a video montage containing pictures of her late cricketer husband Shane and Olivia together, as well as the Grease star in the 1980 film Xanadu..

'You will always be my Queen, one more angel in heaven,' Simone captioned her post. May you rest in peace beautiful Dame Olivia Newton John  We will miss you.'

Simone went on to say that Olivia passed away on August 8, the release date of her iconic film Xanadu.

The movie is about an artist who falls in love with Newton-John's character and Greek muse Kira.

'The irony that she passed on the 42nd anniversary of Xanadu because to so many she was an Inspiration and icon, so much grace, talent and beauty,' Simone said.

'Vale Olivia Newton-John, I hope you've found Xanadu.'

Paying tribute: Her daughter Chloe Lattanzi shared a photo with her mother just three days before her death, writing: 'I worship this woman. My mother. My best friend'

'I worship this woman': Her daughter shared a moving post alongside some beautiful images

Actress Mandy Moore, 38, shared a black and white photo of the star, with the caption 'Thank you for the joy you brought countless people around the world.'

Meanwhile her other Grease co-tar Stockard Channing, 78, called Olivia 'the essence of summer' in a statement to People.

'I don't know if I've known a lovelier human being. Olivia was the essence of summer  her sunniness, her warmth and her grace are what always come to mind when I think of her. I will miss her enormously.'

George Takei, 85, also paid tribute to the actress, writing on Twitter: 'We have lost a great, iconic artist in Olivia Newton John, gone too soon from us at age 73.'

'I trust she is now is the great Xanadu beyond. Know that we are forever helplessly devoted to you, Olivia. Rest in song and mirth.'

Singer Richard Marx, 58, posted photos of himself along with the late actress, writing: 'My heart is broken. Rest now, sweet friend. You were as kind and loving a person as theres ever been. Ill miss you every day.'

Emotional: Host Karl Stefanovic left his seat on the panel to comfort his colleague Richard Wilkins who broke down in tears

Painful: Richard appeared on British TV show Good Morning Britain on Tuesday and revealed he had texted John to offer his condolences, and said he is understandably very cut up about her death

Underworld star Kate Beckinsale, 49, posted a snap of the star as Sandy, writing 'RIP, absolute icon. Thank you for the years of joy.'

'RIP What an icon,' Katharine McPhee, 38, wrote over a photo of a younger Olivia looking radiant in a black trench coat.

X-Men star Hugh Jackman, 53, wrote a heartfelt message on Instagram revealing Olivia was his first 'crush' and that he kissed her poster 'every night before bed.'

'I'm devastated to hear the news that @therealonj has passed away. One of the great privileges of my life was getting to know her. Not only was she one of the most talented people I've known... she was one of the most open hearted, generous and funny.'

'She was a one of kind spirit. It's no secret Olivia was my first crush. I kissed her (poster) every night before bed. Her legacy will only grow stronger in the years to come. A fighter for healing from cancer that knows no bounds. I love you Olivia.'

Special: Bindi Irwin also shared a photo of herself holding the iconic actress' hand during a charity event and wrote: 'One of the kindest and most wonderful souls the world has ever known'

Tribute: Shane Warne 's ex-wife Simone Callahan shared a sweet tribute to Olivia after the singer's death following a 30-year battle with cancer

Actress Goldie Hawn, 76, shared an iconic video of herself on stage with Olivia, Meryl Streep, Bette Midler, and Cher as they performed What A Wonderful World during an all-star charity concert in 1990 at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles.

'A light landed on this planet 73 years ago. Her voice brought us to such joyous heights, nothing held her back, nothing. Her mind was strong and heroic. Olivia's light will continue to shine and will never flicker. Never. Rest sweetheart. Rest peacefully, you are Love,' she wrote in her caption underneath.

Her daughter Kate Hudson, 43, also paid homage to the legendary star. While paying her respects to the Australian icon, the Almost Famous star shared a video of herself singing Hopelessly Devoted To You, first crooned by Newton-John's character, Sandy Olsson, in Grease (1978).

As she cradled her three-year-old daughter, Rani Rose, in her arms, the mother-three belted out the chorus before penning a heartfelt tribute to her 'inspiration.'

The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Rinna, 59, shared an autographed photo of Olivia with the words 'Rest In Peace.'

Rest in peace: The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Rinna, 59, shared an autographed photo of Olivia with the words 'Rest In Peace'

Icon: 'RIP What an icon,'Katharine McPhee, 38, wrote over a photo of a younger Olivia looking radiant in a black trench coat

Tribute: Stockard Channing was one of many stars who paid tribute to Olivia on Monday

Touching: The 78-year-old actress called her Grease co-star 'the essence of summer' and said she will 'miss her enormously' in a touching statement to People; (L) Channing as Rizzo (R) Newton-John as Sandy in 1978 stills from Grease

Yolanda Hadid, 58, shared a tribute on Instagram: 'Rest In Peace beautiful angel, it was an honor to know you,' adding, 'thank you for decades of inspiration.'

Actress Elle Fanning, 24, posted a beautiful photo of the star writing: 'Forever icon' while Gabrielle Union, 49, shared a snap of Olivia from Grease.

Fellow Australian star Rebel Wilson, 42, wrote 'You were a true icon and I absolutely adored you!'

Comedian Rosie O'Donnell, 60, took to Instagram and TikTok with a video expressing her sadness at the news.

'Oh boy, just heard about Olivia Newton-John. What a great woman she was. She fought long and hard. She had cancer a while.'

'I loved her, I almost bought her house in Florida. It didn't go through but... she was amazing, and I lover her. It's very sad. Rest in Peace, beautiful woman.'

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which awards the Oscars, posted a 1978 photo of Newton-John and Travolta.

'Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta at the 50th Academy Awards (April 3, 1978). A few months later, they took the world by storm as Sandy and Danny in 'Grease' - which went on to become the highest grossing film of 1978, proving that Grease is (and forever will be) the word.'

The star has asked fans to donate to her charity instead of buying flowers in her memory before she died - as her moving photo - the last picture taken of her outside of Instagram was revealed.

The picture shows her surrounded by sunflowers with a beaming smile.

Newton-John, who shot to international stardom thanks to her role as Sandy in the 1978 movie Grease, died on Monday morning surrounded by family at her home in southern California after a long battle with breast cancer.

Her husband revealed the actress' final request was for donations to be made to the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, 'in lieu of flowers'.

The foundation funds research into plant-based medicine and holistic treatments for cancer.

In a final video posted just before Christmas, Olivia thanked her fans for their support over the years.

'I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish all a primarily healthy, happy, peaceful Christmas,' she said.

Strong: In her final video post, shared just before Christmas Newton-John wished fans a 'happy, peaceful' Christmas after a tough 2021

Paying tribute: Fans left flowers and photos on Newton-John's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (above) after she died on Monday morning

'I know it's been a very, very, very difficult time for everybody in the whole planet - so this is a time we can get together, celebrate each other and our families and whatever faith that you believe in we can express it with each other which is very important.

'I want to thank you all for all of your support over the years and I wish you all the best and send you love and light.

Newton-John's battle with breast cancer first began in 1992 when she was just 44 years old. She was very open about her diagnosis and treatment, which famously included the use of medical marijuana.

Her cancer returned in 2013 and again in 2017.

Newton-John and Easterling met while on a ayahuasca retreat in Peru.

Olivia is survived by her 36-year-old daughter Chloe Lattanzi - who posted a loving tribute to her mother on Instagram three days ago, saying: 'I worship this woman. My mother. My best friend.'

A recent interview featuring Olivia resurfaced from A Life of Greatness podcast a year ago - one of her final interviews.

Tragic: Her husband John announced her passing with this beautiful picture of the star on Instagram

Words: This caption was posted alongside the picture, announcing the news that Olivia had passed away

During the candid chat, Olivia revealed her deep faith and the pact she made with God while pregnant with daughter Chloe Lattanzi back in the eighties.

'I remember when I was pregnant with Chloe, and I was close to losing her,' Olivia explained on the podcast.

'I went to bed and asked God to save her and if he did, I would say the Lord's Prayer every night for the rest of my life and so I have.'

She added: 'I think prayer is very powerful.'

How Olivia spoke about contemplating death in one of her final haunting interviews Olivia Newton-John revealed she had contemplated the prospect of dying following her cancer diagnosis in one of the final interviews before her tragic death. During an interview on Sarah Grynberg's A Life of Greatness podcast last year, the Australian icon said: 'We all know we're going to die, but I think we spend our lives in denial. It's extremely personal so it's hard to put into words. 'I feel that we are all one thing and I've had experiences with spirits and spirit life. I believe there is something that happens. 'I hope the energies of the people you love will be there... I think all the love will be there. I'm sort of looking forward to that, not now, but when it happens.' Advertisement

Olivia also shared her thoughts on death and faith, saying she believed there was something out there after you die.

'Have you contemplated your death?' the podcast host asked.

'I have quite a few times that it was a possibility sooner than I wanted it,' Olivia said.

'We all know we are going to die... I think we spend our lives denying it. It's extremely personal. I find it hard to put into words, I feel we are all part of one thing, I have had experiences with spirits or spirit life and felt the spirit world and have heard things, that I believe there is something that happens.'

Olivia said she thought there was 'energy' and a life of some sort after death.

'It's almost like we are parts of the same computer and we go back to the main battery. I don't have a definite definition of what it is,' she explained.

'I think there is a great knowingness out there we become part of it. I hope that the energies of the people you love will be there... I think all the love will be there... I'm sort of looking forward to that, not now, but when it happens,' she added with a laugh.

However, in one of her last red carpet appearances. Olivia confessed that she had been in 'denial' about her cancer battle in recent years  and refused to label her struggle to live as a 'fight.'

Just two years before her passing, she spoke candidly about her outlook on life at the G'Day USA benefit in Beverly Hills alongside former co-star Travolta.

'Gosh, life is a gift and I've had an amazing life and I intend to keep going with it and I want to help other people with cancer of course,' she told DailyMail.com in the January 2020 interview.

'I have my wellness center in Melbourne and I want to see an end to cancer in my lifetime so other people don't have to suffer.'

Reflecting on her fight to beat the condition, she admitted: 'I don't see it as a battle. I don't think about it a lot, to be honest. Denial is a really good thing and I'm getting stronger and better all the time! I am doing well!...I am feeling wonderful.'

She also admitted that she had hope for her future.

'I'm winning over and living with it well and that's how I see it,' she added.

The actress famously beat breast cancer twice but was diagnosed again in 2017. She spent the last few years at home, campaigning for animal rights and raising money for her charity.

In a haunting interview with The Guardian in 2020, she said of the disease: 'It's been a part of my life for so long.

'I felt something was wrong. It's concerning when it comes back, but I thought "I'll get through it again".

In other interviews, when asked how she battled the disease so bravely, she said: 'I've had and am having an amazing life so I have no complaints. I really don't.

'Everyone goes through something. We all have something we need to go through in life. This has been my challenge.'

Olivia committed a large portion of her personal fortune to support her charity three years before her death.

The Grease star used money raised from a massive sell-off of her real estate and invested it in The Olivia Newton-John Foundation for cancer research, reports the New York Post.

After she learned she had stage 4 cancer in 2019, Olivia selflessly threw herself into raising money for the foundation which was established in 2012 by selling off most of her massive real estate portfolio.





Insight: Newton-John spoke candidly about her positive outlook on life amid her long battle with cancer, in an interview with DailyMail.com at the G'Day USA benefit in Beverly Hills in January 2020. She is pictured with her niece Tottie

After failing to sell her California ranch in 2019, Olivia transferred ownership to the Santa Barbara property to her husband John Easterling.

In 2019, Olivia also sold off her 189-acre farm located in Dalwood, New South for $6.6million.

The beloved star initially purchased the land in the 1980s and rebuilt the home in the early 2000s.

'Olivia loved helping people. She spent the last two decades of her life giving back,' a source close to the star told the publication.

'She wanted to leave behind something that would last, and something that her daughter, too, could benefit from.'

Over the years, Olivia invested in her Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre at Melbournes Austin Hospital.

Olivia did not let her grave illness stop what would be her final performance in Australia.

The international superstar appeared before thousands of fans at Sydney's Accor Stadium for the Fire Fight Australia concert in February in 2020, two years before her death.

Olivia bravely took to the stage to sing a duet with John Farham as she fought cancer which had spread to the base of her spine.

Wow! Olivia performed at the Fire Fight Australia charity event amid her breast cancer battle two years before her death. Pictured: John Farham (L) and Olivia (R) at the event

Powerful: She belted out Two Strong Hearts with John during the 10-hour charity event that raised $9.5million in the wake of the deadly Black Summer Bushfires of 2019-2020

She belted out Two Strong Hearts with John during the 10-hour charity event which raised $9.5million in the wake of the deadly Black Summer Bushfires of 2019-2020.

Olivia looked radiant as she emerged on-stage in a kimono by Aussie designer Camilla Franks. Later, the Xanadu star was joined by Queen's Adam Lambert to sing John Farham's 1986 megahit, You're the Voice.

Born in England to an MI5 agent father, Brinley, or 'Brin', Newton-John and her family moved to Melbourne, Australia, when she was six. She returned to the UK as a teenager to pursue a singing career and starred in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974.

As an MI5 agent and Bletchley Park codebreaker, then an acclaimed educator, Brin's career could not have been any more different from his daughter's, but it was in many ways just as remarkable.

And he was far from the only exceptional character on Olivia's family tree. Her grandfather was the renowned Jewish German physicist Dr Max Born, who was forced to flee to England after the Nazis came to power in 1933.

He ended up teaching at the University of Edinburgh for twenty years before returning back to Germany. In 1954, Born was awarded the Nobel prize in physics for his Born Rule, a foundational theory of quantum mechanics.

His son and Olivia's cousin, Gustav Born, was a leading pharmacologist, who was among the first allied personnel to witness the medical aftermath of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima in 1945.

After noting the tendency of victims to suffer from severe bleeding disorders, he concluded this was due to a lack of blood platelets caused to radiation damage. Subsequent research into the role of platelets made a considerable contribution to the detection of thrombosis.

As if being related to two scientific geniuses was not enough, Olivia was also the third cousin of Ben Elton, the actor and comedian who helped write the legendary sitcom Blackadder.

Newton-John got her first break at just 15-years-old, winning the Sitmar Talent Quest on Channel Seven's popular Sing Sing Sing show, hosted by Australian rock icon Johnny O'Keefe, in April 1964.

She performed the songs Anyone Who Had A Heart and Everything's Coming Up Roses, winning the top prize of a trip to the UK.

With a voice Australia's National Film and Sound Archive described as 'pure and powerful', Newton-John was in demand and appearances on 7's Sunnyside Up, ABC's Teen Scene and a return to Sing Sing Sing followed.

Billed as 'Lovely Livvy', she filled in as hostess on Seven's Happy Show over the summer of 196465 and then - against her Cambridge University-educated father Bryn's wishes - Newton-John left school to follow her dream.

She appeared in the children's movie Funny Things Happen Down Under, followed by the first of many appearances on ATV-0's (later Channel 10) pop music program GO!!

Newton-John also signed a contract with Seven to appear on daytime variety show Time For Terry.

These productions also featured her boyfriend of the time, singer and actor Ian 'Turps' Turpie.

Her rush to success continued in May 1965, when Newton-John was the opening act on an episode of Boomeride, a new live music show on Channel Nine.

Given her experience over the previous 12 months, she already had a confidence seemingly beyond her years.

This was reflected in the risque song she was given to sing, with lyrics saying that though she was '16 now ... One of these days, when I grow up, I'm gonna make love to you'.

In early 1966, accompanied by her mother, Irene, Newton-John finally used her Sing Sing Sing prize, travelling by ship to England.

The unbridled early success she had achieved in Australia was not immediately replicated in the UK.

Her debut single, Till You Say You'll be Mine, flopped, as did a singing duo with fellow Australian, Pat Carroll.

A Monkees-style pop group called Toomorrow then recruited her and she fronted them on a flop 1970 'space musical' film and two singles.

Despite the tough times in England she never gave up and in 1971 things took a better turn when Cliff Richard hired her as a regular guest singer on his TV variety show.

With the help of Richard's backing band The Shadows, Newton-John finally scored a hit single with a cover of Bob Dylan's If Not for You.

Several more hits, including two albums, quickly followed, with an up-tempo take of the murder ballad Banks Of The Ohio, doing well in Australia as well as the UK.

Her 1973 song Let Me Be There was her key to success in the US, earning her a Grammy award for best female country vocal performance.

With a follow-up hit, I Honestly Love You, Newton-John won the female vocalist of the year trophy at the 1974 Country Music Association awards.

Getting her voice heard: Olivia pictured performing Everything's Coming Up Roses on Sing Sing Sing, broadcast on April 19, 1964

Seen and heard: Pictured singing When I Grow Up, which featured risque lyrics, on Boomeride in 1965

Some of the biggest names in American country music were reportedly angered by an Australian pop singer having hits in a genre they regarded as their territory.

It made no difference, and Newton-John later said she had no idea there was a backlash.

'I was travelling and touring, and I heard about it after, and heard that Dolly [Parton] and Loretta [Lynn] had backed me up, so I had great support,' she said.

While some rock music magazines railed against her for not being 'authentic', others gave her a pass due to her looks.

Creem magazine asked it's readers 'What female singer would ya like most to sit in yr lap? 'Connie Francis? (too old) Cher? (too bananas). Answer: Olivia!'

She won more awards, including another three Grammys, but by the late 1970s her sales were dropping.

Her big break in Grease came in 1978. She famously resisted the part, at first turning down producer Allan Carr because she thought she was too old for the role.

He won her over, and adapted the script to make the character an Australian ex-pat to accommodate her accent. When the movie was released, it was an international hit and she became a global sex symbol.

Riding a wave of success from Grease, she hammed up her newfound sex symbol status with Physical, her most successful album and single released in 1981.

It was dedicated to her first husband, Matt Lattanzi, to whom she was married between 1984 until 1995.

After Grease, Newton-John's acting career faltered. She appeared alongside Lattanzi in the movie Xanadu in 1980, but it failed to impress in the box office.

Kind: Olivia's touching final act of kindness has been revealed - after failing to sell her California ranch in 2019, Olivia transferred ownership of the Santa Barbara property to her husband John

Spreading kindness: In 2019, Olivia also sold off her 189-acre farm located in Dalwood, New South for $6.6million. The beloved star initially purchased the land in the 1980s and rebuilt the home in the early 2000s

She took three years off work following the birth of her daughter in 1986, then was struck with her first cancer diagnosis in 1992 when she was 44.

After her first diagnosis, she devoted her career largely to charity and humanitarian work.

She was notoriously open about taking drugs, particularly for healing purposes, and met her second husband on an ayahuasca retreat in Peru. They returned to the country to get married in 2008.

The Australian High Commission to the UK posted a photo of Newton-John by the Sydney Harbor bridge.

'We are terribly saddened by the passing of Dame Olivia Newton-John AC DBE,' they tweeted.

'British born and Australian raised, Dame Olivia inspired us in song and brought us together as one. We remember her with our British friends, and send our deepest condolences to her loved ones.'

The mysterious fate of Olivia's on-off lover haunted the singer in her later years after he disappeared without trace - amid lurid claims he faked his own death.

Patrick McDermott, 48, went on an overnight fishing trip with 22 other people on June 30, 2005, but vanished before it returned to dry land without anyone noticing.

For almost two decades afterwards, he was rumoured to be in hiding in Mexico, on the run from crushing debts.

But repeated manhunts by police, media and private detectives have never been able to find any conclusive proof, despite constant reports of him being spotted.

'I don't think I will ever really be at peace with it,' Newton-John admitted.

Her family: Olivia (left) with her MI5 agent and Bletchley Park codebreaker father, Brinley, and sister Rona (right) in the late 1980s

'I think there will always be a question mark.'

She hooked up with McDermott after her 1995 divorce from first husband Matt Lattanzi and began a nine-year on-off romance with the cameraman.

Newton-John was on a promotional tour in Australia when McDermott disappeared and it was another week after the fishing trip until it was noticed he had gone.

Crew on his fishing boat had found the American's car keys, passport and wallet on board the boat and his car was found parked at the San Pedro marina in Los Angeles.

But still no-one realised he was missing until he failed to appear at a family event on July 6, with police finally called in on July 11.

By then though the trail had gone cold - and investigators turned up nothing.

McDermott had previously been briefly married and fathered a son, and a court had recently ordered him to pay $8000 in backdated child support.

Threads: Olivia's father was far from the only exceptional character on Olivia's family tree, with her relatives also including renowned physicist Dr Max Born (left), her grandfather, and his son, Gustav, (right) a leading pharmacologist

Celebrated: As if being related to two scientific geniuses was not enough, Olivia was also the third cousin of Ben Elton, the actor and comedian who helped write the legendary sitcom Blackadder

He had filed for bankruptcy with debts of more than $30,000, prompting speculation he'd faked his death to escape and start anew.

A Coast Guard inquiry admitted they 'did not find any evidence of criminal action, suicide, accident or hoax in the disappearance of McDermott.'

A three-year probe into the 'Freedom' fishing boat found it didn't carry out any head counts on the day of the trip, causing McDermott's disappearance to go unnoticed.

Both probes concluded McDermott was likely lost at sea during the night.

But eye witnesses continued to report seeing him around Mexico, where he was said to be living on a yacht off the coast of Sayulita and Acapulco.

TV companies repeatedly sent teams of undercover film crews and private detective to hunt for him and set up sophisticated online website traps to trace him.

One investigator John Nazarian insisted in 2016: 'It's rumoured he was with a German national. I spoke to people there.

'The girl he was travelling with was described as having a German accent.

'To come up with the conclusion that he fell off the boat, and allegedly no-one saw him fall off the boat, is the most preposterous thing I've ever heard in my life.'

Baffling: The mysterious fate of Olivia Newton-John's on-off lover Patrick McDermott haunted the singer in her later years after he disappeared without trace amid claims he faked his own death

Past love: Olivia (seen with daughter Chloe Lattanzi) hooked up with Patrick McDermott after her 1995 divorceand began a nine year on-off romance with the cameraman

All the manhunts proved fruitless though and McDermott remained elusive.

Photographs of a man and a woman said to be McDermott and his new lover in Mexico were published in 2017 by New Idea magazine.

But the claims were undone weeks later when a Canadian couple came forward to say they were the people in the photograph.

Olivia Newton-John put the tragedy behind her to get on with life, meeting future husband John Easterling and marrying him at an Inca ritual in Peru in 2008.

But the mystery continued to stalk her in the years that followed, although she had resigned herself to the fact McDermott was most probably dead.

'He was lost at sea, and nobody really knows what happened,' Newton-John told 60 Minutes in 2016.

'It's human to wonder. Because whenever you go through difficult times, there's always those concerns.

Mystery: Patrick, 48, went on an overnight fishing trip with 22 other people on June 30, 2005, but vanished before the boat 'Freedom' returned to dry land without anyone noticing

Map: For almost two decades afterwards, he was rumoured to be in hiding in Mexico, on the run from crushing debts and said to be living on a yacht off the Mexican coast at Sayulita

WHAT HAPPENED TO OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN'S LOST LOVER? Theories have raged for almost two decades about the fate of Olivia Newton-John's on-off lover, movie cameraman Patrick McDermott, 48. He vanished on an overnight 22-hour fishing trip on the boat 'Freedom' out of San Pedro marina in Los Angeles on June 30, 2005. The boat's crew found his car keys, wallet and passport on board after all the other passengers disembarked the following day, and his car was found parked nearby. The crew hadn't done a headcount so no-one noticed he was missing for another week when he failed to turn up for a family event, with police alerted almost a week later.. Since then speculation has raged about what happened to him, with investigators unable to find any evidence of a crime, suicide, hoax or an accident on the fishing trip. Officials believe he simply fell overboard and drowned, but conspiracy theorists insist he may have had another boat lined up to meet him offshore. Others believe he may have planted his belongings on the boat before slipping off, possibly before it even left port, without any noticing. Private detectives set up a website FindPatrickMcDermott.com to try to trap the missing American into giving himself away, identifying the location of everyone who accessed the site. Olivia Newton-John kept in touch with McDermott's ex-wife Yvette Nipar (pictured) on the fate of the missing American movie cameraman A flurry of web traffic from the Sayulita area of Mexico's West Coast sparked a hunt for him there without any success. Others say they spotted him living on a yacht off the coast of Acapulco, 1000km further south. One investigator claimed to have found him and spoken with him in 2009, claiming he just wanted be left alone but the claim was unsubstantiated. Another claimed to have categoric proof he was alive and was on the verge of revealing it - but never did. Over the years there has been at least 20 sightings of him in Mexico and Central America, but many have proved false. One set of pictures of a couple alleged to be the distinctive looking McDermott - who was half-Korean and adopted at the age of two - turned out to be a Canadian couple. His ex-wife Yvette Nipar, the mother of their son Chance, begged for the speculation to end for the sake of their child. She pleaded with Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos to block the publication of a book by private eye Philip Klein about her ex's disappearance. 'My son has been through enough emotional torment over this,' Nipar wrote, branding Klein a 'serial liar'. 'He has yet to be able to move on.due to Mr Klein's continual effort to keep him in the public eye. 'Let him rest in peace.' Advertisement

'Those are the things in life you have to accept and let go. Of course questions always come up and that's human.

'But you know, I live on.'

Another scandal was that Grease became a victim of 'cancel culture' as it's star Olivia Newton-John battled cancer - but she was always had the best comeback to the haters who said it was 'sexist' and even 'offensive' to women.

Newtown-John said people needed to 'relax a little bit and just enjoy things for what they are'.

'It's a fun movie that entertains people,' she said.

However, students at Presbyterian Ladies' College and Scotch College in Perth in November didn't see it that way when they decided not to perform the musical because the girls deemed it to be anti-feminist.

The show was made famous by the movie version starring Newton-John and John Travolta in 1978

PLC principal Cate Begbie and Scotch College acting headmaster Peter Burt released a joint statement about their decision to cancel the musical.

'A number of PLC students raised concerns whether the musical was appropriate in modern times,' it read.

'Scotch College listened respectfully to the girls' concerns, and both schools agreed a different musical would be better suited for their joint production in 2022.'

Let's get physical: Newton-John promoting her 1980 album. It was dedicated to her first husband Matt Lattanzi, right. The pair were married from 1984 until 1995

Sunrise reported the girls at PLC told teachers they felt Grease was 'offensive, sexist and anti-feminist' and refused to take part.

'They can't put on Mary Poppins because she disciplines the children. Sound of Music, you know, does it does it portray a blended family accurately?' co-host Edwina Bartholomew asked on the program last year.

'What are they deciding on?' David Koch replied.

'I don't know, The Book of Mormon?' Bartholomew joked.

Newton-John repeatedly defended the film in her recent interviews, saying people shouldn't be taking it 'too seriously'.

'I think it's kind of silly. I mean, this movie was made in the 1970s about the 1950s,' she said.

'It was a stage play, it's a musical, it's fun. It's a fun movie musical, not to be taken so seriously.

'We need to relax a little bit and just enjoy things for what they are. I didn't see it like that at all, I think it's a fun movie that entertains people.'

Grease was also aired on free-to-air TV in the UK earlier this year, with the showing attracting similarly angry responses from viewers.

Many viewers accused the film of being 'misogynistic', 'rapey' - and even encouraged 'slut-shaming'.

Newton-John said during a 2020 interview she believed it actually conveyed a strong female character that was relevant in today's society.

'It's a movie. It's a story from the '50s where things were different,' she said of its criticism.

'Everyone forgets that, at the end, he changes for her too. There's nothing deep in there about the #MeToo movement.'
Idris Elba had an extra special plus-one for his appearance at the Beast premiere in New York City - his rarely-seem daughter Isan.

The actor, 49, was all smiles as he posed alongside his child, 20, at the event, held at the Metropolitan Musuem Of Art on Monday.

The film star looked dapper for the evening as he sported a blue-grey blazer and matching trousers.

Dapper: Idris Elba looked dapper in a blue-gray suit as he attended the premiere of Beast in New York City alongside his rarely-seen daughter Isan on Monday

Also sporting a white top, Idris completed his look for the premiere with a pair of black shoes.

Isan wore a chic plaid Miu Miu blouse that was rolled up at the bottom and held together by a single button to reveal her trim midriff.

She paired the top with a matching mini skirt and a slim black belt, and she wore tall rolled-up white socks with silvery open-toe heels.

She wore glittering Miu Miu earrings and a hair clip that bore the name.

Style: Isan wore a chic plaid Miu Miu blouse that was rolled up at the bottom and held together by a single button to reveal her trim midriff

Past love: Idris was previously married to make-up artist Hanne Norgaard (left) - they share daughter Isan together

The actor shares his daughter with ex-wife, make-up artist Hanne 'Kim' Nrgaard while he also has a son named Winston, eight, with former girlfriend Naiyana Garth.

Elba brought his first wife Hanne, with him when he moved to New York to launch his career.

However, he struggled to master an American accent and was reduced to working as a labourer and nightclub bouncer.

When Norgaard became pregnant with daughter Isan in 2001, the marriage collapsed because of the financial strain. As it turned out, Isan was born on the very day he secured his role on The Wire, the launch pad for his later success.

A ten-year affair with pole dancer Desiree Newberry followed, and it was during a lengthy break from this that he met his second wife Sonya.

Ex: He also has a son named Winston, eight, with former girlfriend Naiyana Garth (pictured in 2014)

Idris was also joined at the premiere by his current wife Sabrina, 34, who cut a glamorous figure in a black dress with long sleeves.

Idris stars in Beast  released on August 19  as a newly widowed scientist who returns to South Africa for a trip to a game reserve with his two daughters.

It comes as Idris is reportedly in talks once again to star in the lead role in the James Bond films.

The actor was confirmed as being 'part of the conversation' to be the next 007 by the blockbuster franchise's producer Barbara Broccoli, 61, earlier this year.

Couple: Idris was also joined at the premiere by his wife Sabrina who cut a glamorous figure in a black dress with long sleeves

The role has most recently been played by Daniel Craig, but he made his final outing as Bond in No Time To Die.

He had previously ditched the idea of playing the spy and discussed the idea of playing a villain instead, but he is again being considered after he ranked highly in market research, according to The Sun.

A source told the publication: 'Idris has long been in talks to play a role in the next era of James Bond's story and last year was being considered for a role as an antagonist.'

Speaking to Variety, Barbara said: 'It's a big decision. It's not just casting a role. It's about a whole rethink about where we're going.'
Michelle Keegan looked casually chic as she joined her husband Mark Wright for a low-key stroll around Bondi Beach in Sydney on Wednesday.

The actress, 35, - who is in Australia filming her new BBC drama - and the former TOWIE star, also 35, recently reunited after spending eight weeks after while she worked.

Michelle showed off her sense of style in a khaki jacket, high-waisted grey trousers and a matching shirt as she chatted to her beau while walking down the street.

Together: Michelle Keegan looked casually chic as she joined her husband Mark Wright for a low-key stroll around Bondi Beach in Sydney on Wednesday

She completed her look with brown sliders and wore a black handbag across her body while donning dark shades.

Brunette beauty Michelle wore her dark tresses pinned up in a sleek bun and opted for a naturally bronzed makeup look.

Meanwhile beside her Mark looked sporty in a black tracksuit from his AYTEE7 range.

Stroll: The actress, 35, - who is in Australia filming her new BBC drama - and the former TOWIE star, also 35, recently reunited after spending eight weeks after while she worked

Out and about: Michelle showed off her sense of style in a khaki jacket, high-waisted grey trousers and a matching shirt as she chatted to her beau while walking down the street

It comes after Michelle took some time off to visit Home And Away's Palm beach and enjoy oysters with her husband Mark in Sydney last Wednesday.

The couple took some time out together amid Michelle working on the six-part period drama Ten Pound Poms.

Posing for a mirror photo to her Instagram Story, Michelle looked as stylish as ever in a striped shirt and white vest top.

The former soap star shared snaps of the infamous Palm Beach and later could be seen as she enjoyed some oysters at a local restaurant.

Stylish: She completed her look with brown sliders and wore a black handbag across her body while donning dark shades

A few days before the former soap star and the TV presenter enjoyed a romantic harbour cruise in Sydney, days after Mark shed a rare light on the couple's marriage by sharing the secret to making their long-distance relationship work.

Michelle and Mark cruised past the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge to the Sydney coastal suburb of Manly, where they stopped off for a drink and a bite to eat.

The couple, who have been married since 2015 and together since 2012, then got dressed up and headed out for a slap-up dinner at Cantonese restaurant, Mr. Wong.

Glowing: Brunette beauty Michelle wore her dark tresses pinned up in a sleek bun and opted for a naturally bronzed makeup look

Michelle has been hard at work in Australia for the past eight weeks shooting her latest project, new BBC drama Ten Pound Poms, set in the 1950s.

The actress will star as a young nurse named Kate in the six-part period drama, who arrives in Australia without her fiance and will do whatever it takes to try and rewrite her devastating past.

Ten Pound Poms tells the tale of a group of Brits as they leave dreary post-war Britain in 1956 to embark on a life-altering adventure on the other side of the world.

Stepping out: Meanwhile beside her Mark looked sporty in a black tracksuit from his AYTEE7 range

Fun: It comes after Michelle took some time off to visit Home And Away 's Palm beach and enjoy oysters with her husband Mark in Sydney last Wednesday

For only 10, they have been promised a better house, better job prospects and a better quality of life by the sea in sun-soaked Australia.

But life down under isn't the idyllic dream the new arrivals have been promised. Struggling with their new identity as immigrants, the drama follows their triumphs and pitfalls as they adapt to a new life in a new country.

Last week, Michelle's husband Mark shed rare light on the couple's long-distance marriage as he admitted being in the same industry has made their relationship easier.

Speaking to MailOnline, Mark said he and Michelle 'support each other' to achieve all of their 'goals and dreams'.

Busy: The couple took some time out together amid Michelle working on the six-part period drama Ten Pound Poms

Career: Michelle has been hard at work in Australia for the past eight weeks shooting her latest project, new BBC drama Ten Pound Poms, set in the 1950s

Love: Last week, Michelle's husband Mark shed rare light on the couple's long-distance marriage as he admitted being in the same industry has made their relationship easier

Speaking about their relationship, he said: 'I think both being in the same industry really helps. Because we get each other's careers, and we totally understand it.

'Essentially, we both just want each other to achieve all of our goals and all of our dreams and we just support each other every step of the way for that, you know.'

Mark recently said: 'If you're in love and in a happy relationship you will be happy to see each other.

'You have to learn that you've been together for a long time and not seen each other in three weeks so it's exciting at first but then it goes back to being a 10 year relationship.'

Love: Speaking about their relationship, he said: 'I think both being in the same industry really helps. Because we get each other's careers, and we totally understand it'
Olivia Newton-John has topped the iTunes chart as Aussies rush to download the stars iconic videos following her death at age 73.

The British-Australian star's 1981 hit Physical - where she famously donned Spandex - is the number one video in the Australian chart, while another six singles also made it into the top 10.

A Little More Love came in at number three, while Make A Move on Me is number four and The Window in the Wall number five.

Olivia Newton-John has topped the iTunes chart as Aussies rush to download the stars iconic videos following her death at age 73

Meanwhile, You Have To Believe came in at number six while I Think You Might Like it with her Grease co-star John Travolta took the number seven spot.

Her 1989 cover of Somewhere Over the Rainbow - a duet with John Farnham took the number nine spot.

Olivia's husband John Easterling announced the tragic news that his wife died on Monday.

Olivia's husband John Easterling announced the tragic news that his wife died on Monday

'Dame Olivia Newton-John passed away peacefully at her ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends,' he said in a statement

'Dame Olivia Newton-John passed away peacefully at her ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends,' he said in a statement.

'We ask that everyone please respect the familys privacy during this very difficult time.

'Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer.

Hollywood has mourned one of its brightest stars with tributes pouring in from all across the globe. One of the star's first high-profile friends to pay tribute was her Grease co-star John Travolta. Olivia is pictured in Grease

'Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer.'

Hollywood has mourned one of its brightest stars with tributes pouring in from all across the globe. One of the star's first high-profile friends to pay tribute was her Grease co-star John Travolta.

'My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible. I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again,' he captioned an Instagram post alongside a photo of Newton-John.

'Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever! Your Danny, your John!'
Jane Lynch will be leaving the new Broadway revival of Funny Girl on August 14, three weeks earlier than originally anticipated.

Although she was initially scheduled to leave September 4, she already had a planned holiday from August 15 to 23, the production told the Hollywood Reporter.

She was also going to be out of the show on September 1 so she that could cross the country to Los Angeles for the Creative Arts Emmys.

As a result, the producers decided that instead of having Jane come back for just one week, the 62-year-old could depart the production at the end of this week.

On her way out: Jane Lynch will be leaving the new Broadway revival of Funny Girl at the end of this week - three weeks earlier than originally anticipated; seen in March

Jane has been a part of the current revival since it opened this year on April 24 with Booksmart star Beanie Feldstein in the title role of Fanny Brice - a part that was famously originated by Barbra Streisand in 1964.

The current production features Jane in the role of Fanny's mother Rose, who was played by Kay Medford in both the original production and the 1968 movie adaptation, for which Barbra won her first Oscar.

Tovah Feldshuh was scheduled to take over for Jane on September 6, and that date is unchanged, so Jane's standby Liz McCartney will play Rose in the interim.

Beanie received a spate of bad reviews for the new revival, and by July it was announced that Lea Michele would replace her in September.

Side by side: Jane has been a part of the current revival since it opened this year on April 24 with Booksmart star Beanie Feldstein in the title role of Fanny Brice

Curtain call: The producers decided that instead of having Jane come back for just one week, the 62-year-old could depart the production at the end of this week

Lea, who sang multiple Funny Girl songs on Glee in the style of Streisand several years ago, is now in rehearsals for the stage musical.

Although it was initially announced that Beanie would leave the show on September 25, she fired up her Instagram in mid-July and shocked her fans by declaring that she would in fact be exiting the show early at the end of that month.

It was claimed that Beanie found out from Gawker that she was being replaced by Lea after a string of bad reviews, and was in such a state at being booted from her 'dream role' that she surprised the producers by publicly quitting early.

An inside source dished to The Daily Beast that Beanie, whose older brother is Jonah Hill, was 'basically fired' from the show.

Triumph: Beanie received a spate of bad reviews for the new revival, and by July it was announced that Lea Michele (pictured) would replace her in September

New role: Tovah Feldshuh was scheduled to take over for Jane on September 6, and that date is unchanged, so Jane's standby Liz McCartney will play Rose in the interim

However the producers and a representative for Beanie told People in a joint statement: 'The producers of Funny Girl were not blindsided by Beanie's social post.'

They continued: 'The producers decided to take the show in a different direction and end Beanie's contract on September 25th, 6 months earlier than anticipated. A month after that decision, Beanie decided it was best for her to leave on July 31st. The producers were aware of and in support of her decision.'

The statement concluded: 'The producers and Beanie worked on this together professionally, respectfully and graciously.'

Until Lea's takeover in September, Fanny is being played by Julie Benko, who served as Beanie's understudy and earned praise online when she stepped into the part.

Hard at work: Lea, who sang multiple Funny Girl songs on Glee in the style of Barbra Streisand several years ago, is now in rehearsals for the stage musical

The current Funny Girl revival is directed by Michael Mayer, who won a Tony for the original production of Spring Awakening - the show that made Lea a Broadway star.

Beanie opened in the show on April 24 and received a disappointing critical response, including from the New York Times, whose theater reviews used to be able to make or break a show decades ago.

The New York Times review noted that the role was sculpted around Barbra's abilities and that July Styne composed the music so that 'only Barbra could sing it.'

Funny Girl was originally a passion project for its producer Ray Stark, who was married to the late Fanny Brice's daughter Frances Arnstein.

Who's who: The current Funny Girl revival is directed by Michael Mayer, who won a Tony for the original production of Spring Awakening - the show that made Lea a star in 2006

The show presented a fictionalized account of Fanny's rise to fame in the 1910s and her marriage to Frances' father, the con man gambler Nicky Arnstein.

For her first Broadway show as a lead Barbra was working with composer Jule Styne, lyricist Bob Merrill, book writer Isobel Lennart and director Garson Kanin.

She had already been a showstopper in the Broadway show I Can Get It For You Wholesale and cut a few albums but it was Funny Girl that made her a superstar.

The score produced one of her most enduring hits - People - which became the title song of her album that dislodged the Beatles' A Hard Day's Night from number one.

The music that makes me dance: Barbra is pictured onstage in the original production of Funny Girl - the project that made her a superstar

Forever more: Barbra reprised her stage role for the movie, which assembled Old Hollywood stalwarts like director William Wyler and cinematographer Harry Stradling

When the show opened on Broadway it became a smash hit and received a rapturous response for her performance which she also took to London.

Barbra played opposite Charlie Chaplin's son Sydney - with whom she had an affair amid her marriage to her first husband Elliott Gould.

She reprised her role for the movie, which assembled Old Hollywood stalwarts like director William Wyler and cinematographer Harry Stradling.

Stick around for the jokes: The show presented a fictionalized account of Fanny's rise to fame in the 1910s; Fanny is pictured in a publicity still for the Ziegfeld Follies in 1911

Her leading man in the film was Omar Sharif, with whom she also had an affair - and with whom she set off a scandal when a still of one of their staged kisses for the film went public in 1967, the year of the Six-Day War between Egypt and Israel.

The movie was the top grosser of 1968, with Roger Ebert writing: 'The trouble with Funny Girl is almost everything except Barbra Streisand. She is magnificent.'

Although the movie led to a critically savaged sequel called Funny Lady in 1975 the show has never been revived on the Great White Way before.

Sadie, Sadie, married lady: Her leading man in the movie was Omar Sharif, who played Fanny's first husband, the con man gambler Nicky Arnstein

A Broadway revival was attempted in 2011 with Lauren Ambrose as Fanny but was ultimately scrapped over problems raising money.

However in 2015 and 2016 a London production with Sheridan Smith in the title role did manage to become a runaway success.

The show went from a limited engagement at the Menier Chocolate Factory to a longer run at the Savoy Theatre that was then extended by popular demand.
She announced she was expecting her first baby with fiance James Taylor in May, with the happy news coming just a month after the pair got engaged in Rome.

And on Monday, Maeva D'Ascanio, exhibited her blossoming baby bump in lacy purple lingerie as she posed for her latest social media upload.

The Made In Chelsea star, 25, took to Instagram where she showed off her pregnant belly in the stunning underwear set from Lounge.

Stunning: On Monday, Maeva D'Ascanio, 25, exhibited her blossoming baby bump in lacy purple lingerie as she posed for her latest social media upload

Maeva looked sensational in the side-profile shot, with one hand placed on her hip as she gazed towards the camera.

The mother-to-be styled her highlighted tresses into an effortlessly chic bun, with her long fringe perfectly framing her features.

Earlier this month, Maeva proudly showcased her baby bump as she slipped into a very busty plunging swimsuit for another Instagram snap.

It came days after she also flaunted her growing stomach in lacy white underwear as she posed for a serene photo in her bedroom.

Strike a pose: Earlier this month, Maeva proudly showcased her baby bump as she slipped into a very busty plunging swimsuit for another Instagram snap

In Maeva's latest snap, she put on a sultry display in the revealing swimwear which showcased her assets and burgeoning bump.

The fiery French reality star allowed her brunette locks to tumble over her shoulders and she wore a light palette of make-up as she smiled for the mirror selfie.

Fans were quick to comment on her radiant look, with one remarking: 'You look gorgeous. Youre so beautiful wow!!!'

Maeva also took to her stories where she filmed herself posing in the racy swimsuit.

Lovely: It came days after she also flaunted her growing stomach in lacy white underwear as she posed for a serene photo in her bedroom

While another clip saw her filming her baby bump as he unborn child moved and kicked inside.

Last month, the stunner impressed fans once again as she slipped into an angelic white lingerie set adorned with pastel flowers.

The beauty, who wore her hair loose for the image, stood at the bottom of her bed with one hand resting on her hip.

In June, Maeva told Hello! magazine: 'All my dreams are coming true at the same time. I still don't believe it!' as she announced her baby news.

Mum-to-be: Maeva also took to her stories where she filmed herself posing in the racy swimsuit

Magical: While another clip saw her filming her baby bump as he unborn child moved and kicked inside

She continued: 'It's all amazing - I just want to enjoy it all as much as I can.'

Meanwhile, her co-star and fiance James, 26, said: 'We are more excited every day.

'My dad told me that, when he had his first child, he never thought he could love something so much.

'And I'm starting to get an inkling of that feeling as this baby growing in Maeva's tummy is pretty special.'

After a trip to Japan was cancelled, the couple decided to have a holiday in Italy, where James proposed at the famous Trevi Fountain in Rome.

Maeva recalled throwing a coin into the Italian landmark as befits the tradition, and made a wish that James, whom she has been dating for three years, would propose.

Overjoyed: In June, Maeva told Hello! magazine : 'All my dreams are coming true at the same time. I still don't believe it!' as she announced her baby news

She told the publication: 'I did my wish which was, "I really hope James is going to propose to me soon.'"

'And then I opened my eyes and he was there on one knee. I was thinking, "Wow, this is it! Is this real?" It was everything I had ever wanted.'

The couple's proposal may have come as a surprise to some Made In Chelsea viewers after James admitted to kissing another girl behind Maeva's back on the show in May, in what he described as a 'drunken night' at London nightclub Raffles.
He's set to make his Walford debut as Mo Slater's son Freddie.

And Jade Goody's son Bobby Brazier was certainly in good spirits as he twirled around with EastEnders newcomer Ellie Dadd on their way to filming on Tuesday.

The actor, 19, who will play a recast of Little Mo's son Freddie in scenes airing this autumn, was seen larking around with young Ellie, who is set to play a new incarnation of Amy Mitchell.

Good mood! Jade Goody's son Bobby Brazier was in good spirits while twirling around with EastEnders newcomer Ellie Dadd as they arrived for filming on Tuesday

Bobby, who is the son of TV presenter Jeff Brazier, 43, and the late Jade Goody, cut a casual figure in a green polo shirt and white shorts as he arrived at the soap's set to film his latest scenes.

The star enjoyed an impromptu dance with Ellie, who was sporting a pretty mint green dress.

Ellie's casting as Roxy Mitchell's daughter Amy was revealed on Monday, after Abbie Burke played the part for the past eight years.

Relaxed: The actor cut a casual figure in a green polo shirt and white shorts as he arrived at the soap's set in Elstree

Happy days! Bobby was seen larking around with young Ellie, who is set to play a new incarnation of Amy Mitchell

Chic: Amy, who has previously starred in Silent Witness, donned a pretty mint green dress and silver slip-on shoes to head to the set

Having fun? Bobby enjoyed an impromptu dance with Ellie, twirling her around as they arrived on the set

In upsetting scenes, Amy will be at the centre of a harrowing bullying storyline this week, after taking a shine to Howie's son Denzel, before being shown up by him and his friend Nugget.

Struggling to come to terms with the reality of being a teenager, Chelsea Fox will support Amy after tearing a strip off Denzel and Nugget for bullying her.

Bobby was first spotted filming for EastEnders last month, with his character Freddie set to be among the drama at Kat Slater's wedding to Phil Mitchell.

New role: Ellie's casting as Roxy Mitchell's daughter Amy was revealed on Monday, after Abbie Burke played the part for the past eight years

New star! Bobby was first spotted filming for EastEnders last month, with his character Freddie set to be among the drama at Kat Slater's wedding to Phil Mitchell

It came just days after his casting in the soap was announced taking over the role of Freddie who last seen in Albert Square in 2006.

Discussing landing his TV role, Bobby revealed he is 'grateful' for the opportunity and is 'excited' to join the EastEnders team.

He said: 'I'm very grateful. Loving every minute of Freddie so far. I'm really excited to be joining the cast of EastEnders - so far it's been perfect.

'Everybody has been so beautiful to me and made settling in easier than I could've hoped. Stepping into the acting world has always been a vision of mine and doing that with EastEnders as a Slater is a blessing.

Soap debut! Discussing landing his TV role, Bobby revealed he is 'grateful' for the opportunity and is 'excited' to join the EastEnders team

'I'm very grateful. Loving every minute of Freddie and can't wait to see what's in store for him in Walford.'

Freddie was born after Little Mo, played by Kacey Ainsworth, was raped by her friend, Graham Foster.

She refused to abort the baby, leading to the break up of her marriage to then husband, Billy Mitchell, played by Perry Fenwick.

Thankful: He said: 'I'm very grateful. Loving every minute of Freddie so far. I'm really excited to be joining the cast of EastEnders - so far it's been perfect'

Tragedy: Bobby - is the son of the late Jade Goody - who tragically died in 2009 of cervical cancer at the age of 27 (pictured in 2004)

Tough time: Meanwhile Ellie's character Amy will be at the centre of a harrowing bullying storyline this week

Following the birth, Little Mo left Albert Square with Freddie to start a new life.

While it is not known exactly what is in store for Freddy, EastEnders bosses have said that he is 'on a mission that could end in heartbreak'.

Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw said: 'Freddie Slater is a chaotic 18-year-old with a sensitive soul. A modern-day lad who's in touch with his spiritual side. He's philosophical, accepting, but full of mischief and makes mistakes.

'Bobby is an amazing young addition to the EastEnders cast who brings heart and humility to the role of Freddie Slater and I can't wait for audiences to get to know him.'

EastEnders airs on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
News Details

Large FDSOI fab to come up at Crolles, France jointly by STMicro and GF

Date: 09-08-22

FDSOI technology gets a massive push from two big innovators/investors of this technology. STMicroelectronics, a company which has put significant intellectual effort in making this technology a beneficial in terms of performance cost and other factors, is now strengthening its partnership with Globalfoundries in creating a new jointly operated 300 mm chip manufacturing facility at its own presently operating semiconductor manufacturing facilities at Crolles, France. This new factory to produce 620,000 300mm wafer per year when it achieves full capacity by 2026.

The fab to serve the customers from Europe and worldwide. The various FDSOI technologies to be used at this fab include FDX technology, and the nodes down to 18 nm covering applications such as automotive IOT and mobile.

With the Europe, setting a goal of reaching 20% of worldwide semiconductor production by 2030, This new manufacturing facility supported by state of France, is a major contributor in reaching that goal.

FDSOI, compared to other technologies delivers both performance and cost advantage, somewhat in line with Moore's Law. To some of the readers who are less aware of the benefits of FDSOI or other technologies, here reproduced below the earlier interview article published in EE Herald.

While the semiconductor fab industry facing big hurdle in scaling further down after 28nm without increase in cost, blessing for the industry comes in the form of new technology called fully depleted silicon-on-insulator (FDSOI). FDSOI can take Moores law down to 10nm. STMicroelectronics is already making 28nm chips out of its Crolles, France fab using FDSOI, ST and its partners have also licensed FDSOI tech to leading foundry Samsung to produce 28nm chips using FDSOI. Below is the Q & A interaction with ST's Rajamohan Varambally, Director, Central CAD and design solutions, STMicroelectronics India.

Q. What is FD-SOI?

FD-SOI stands for Fully Depleted Silicon On Insulator. Planar fully depleted silicon-on-insulator (planar FD, or equivalently FD-SOI) transistors are planar CMOS transistorsfabricated in a very thin layer of silicon sitting over a layer of buried oxide (BOX). They are therefore ultra-thin body (UTB) devices: the electrical conduction channel that forms between source and drain is confined to this ultra-thin silicon layer under the gate oxide.







Q. What makes this process better than other deep-node semiconductor chip fabrication tech?

1. Immunity to Short-Channel Effects

Ultra-thin body and BOX ensures all electrical paths between source and drain are very close to the gate, and the lattertherefore maintains excellent electrostatic control over the channel. As a result, sub-threshold slope, DIBL and other short-channel effects exhibit excellent values

2. Reduced Variability

 The absence of doping or pocket implants in the channel helps to control the electrostatic characteristics and tune the threshold voltages. No doping or implants eliminates the major issue of random dopant fluctuation.

3. Low source/drain capacitance, lower leakage and latch-up immunity due to BOX

Q. If fabless companies decide to use FD-SOI process, what are the issues they should address while moving their design to FD-SOI, particularly when they are using 3rd party IPs blocks which are not FD-SOI ready?

The design method and tools used in 28nm bulk is applicable to FD-SOI as well. Using the foundation IPs and Physical DK provided by ST, any fabless company can make their design in FD-SOI

IP blocks have to be FD-SOI compatible; if not, those blocks need to be migrated. ST has proven that the porting effort is not difficult or challenging.

Q. What is the benefits to end customer both in terms of performance and cost?

1. With 28nm FD-SOI we can offer customers equivalent performance to 20nmbulk CMOS for a much lower cost, providing better power efficiency than 28HPM or 28HPC.. The performance-power ratio is quite simply the best in the market today.

2. Designing in 28nm FD-SOI is like designing in bulk. There is no need to invest in new tools or to learn new design methods.28nm FD-SOI is lower in cost than 28HPM and 28HPC as the number of masks required is reduced by more than 25%

Q. Is it possible to still build 3-D structures (such as finFETs) using FD-SOI?

At least until the 10nm node, there is no need real need to add the complexity of 3D structures to an inherently more simple process, so, while we continue to develop expertise in 3D structures, our plan is to stay with 2-D transistors as it meets the performance expectation.

Q. Can FD-SOI be used for chips other than logic such as analog and RF?

FD-SOI analog performance is far better than Bulk. It is faster, provides better gain and better parasitic-capacitance noise immunity. This translates into easier design and better performance for RF, mixed signal and high speed interfaces like serializers/deserializers.

Q. When industry can expect volume production of chips using FDSOI?

1. FD-SOI is already qualified for volume production at our ST, Crolles facility

Source: http://best.st.com/NewsAndEvents/NewsAboutUs/Pages/ST-and-Samsung-join-forces-in-28-nm-FD-SOI-.aspx

2. The Samsung 28nm FD-SOI process will be qualified in early 2015 for volume production

Source: http://www.st.com/web/en/press/c2755

Q. Finally can FD-SOI help semiconductor industry still extend Moore's Law into deeper nodes such as 7 nm?

1. In the past, the cost per gate decreased each time the industry moved to a new technology node. From 20 nm onwards the cost per gate increases. So by choosing 28nm FD-SOI, the customer delays this effect. In the meantime the industry will see an improvement in cost, performance and power efficiency compared to the previous node (See the below picture).





2. UTBB FD-SOI is scalable down to 10nm Technology Node. Electrostatic control achieved by thinning Tbox (See the below picture).





Pic above: Rajamohan Varambally, Director, Central CAD and design solutions, ST Microelectronics India
She tied the knot to Jeremy Parisi in Italian port town Civitavecchia on July 30.

And now Kelly Brook has opened up about her fairytale wedding on her Heart radio show with Jason King.

The presenter, 42, detailed the special day, explaining how a thunderstorm had almost derailed the celebrations.

Tied the knot: Kelly Brook has opened up about her fairytale wedding on her Heart radio show with Jason King

The ceremony had originally been planned as an outdoor event in an area some 1,500 metres high, but an unexpected rainstorm prompted a last minute change of plans.

Consequently, the bride, groom and an assortment of friends and family members celebrated the ceremony within the walls of Torre di Cicero.

But Kelly explained she wouldn't have changed a thing about her wedding and poked fun at the drama.

Jason began by playing wedding music and announcing: ''It's official she's off the market, just so you know, she's now married.'

Last-minute change: The presenter, 42, detailed the special day, explaining how a thunderstorm had almost derailed the celebrations

Kelly laughed and joked: 'Mind you when it did start raining I said that's all my ex-boyfriend's tears coming down. It's inevitable, they're all crying out there.'

Jason asked: 'How was it walking down the aisle?'

To which Kelly replied: 'I don't know babe. I never got to walk down the aisle!'

Detailing the day's events she said: 'So I don't know if you know but we need have a real big thunderstorm right before my ceremony started and it turned out that I didn't end up getting married where I thought we're going to get married, which was this beautiful aisle and this lovely altar that was all built.

Announcement: Jason began by playing wedding music and announcing: ''It's official she's off the market, just so you know, she's now married'

'We ended up getting married in a tower, which has never had a wedding and will probably never see another wedding ever again because why would you go all the way to Italy to get married in a tower!'

Staying positive, she went on: 'I had to climb the tower in pouring rain to marry my Prince Charming. It was absolutely wild but so much fun and I wouldn't change it for the world.'

She quipped: 'It wasn't on the Pinterest board, but it happened.'

Poking fun: Kelly laughed and joked: 'Mind you when it did start raining I said that's all my ex-boyfriend's tears coming down. It's inevitable, they're all crying out there'

The bride exchanged vows with Parisi in Italian port town Civitavecchia, a popular holiday destination famed for its historic architecture.

Walking hand in hand with her new husband following the ceremony, Kelly looked stunning in a traditional ivory white bridal gown with sheer lace detail.

She was seen holding its floor-length hemline away from the rough terrain surrounding Torre di Cicero - the 19th century villa that served as their wedding venue.

Her long brunette locks were styled in soft waves and she let them cascade down her shoulders, and added a delicate tiara and veil on top of her head.

Staying positive: She went on: 'I had to climb the tower in pouring rain to marry my Prince Charming (pictured with Jeremy in JuLy 2020)

Jeremy cut a very handsome figure, as he held hands with his bride, in a black tailored three-piece suit, and tie with a flower pinned to his lapel.

It's understood that Kelly pulled out all the stops for the day, with the bride-to-be paying for funfair rides and inviting A-list guest Kylie Minogue, according to The Sun.

The publication reported that the former Big Breakfast host has thrown 'the kitchen sink' at her wedding to give her and Jeremy the day to remember, with the plans turning into an 'extravagant affair'.

The model is said to have splashed out up to 500,000 for her big day.

A source told The Sun: 'Kelly has thrown the kitchen sink at her wedding and its turning into quite an extravagant affair. She has booked the Villa Nota Pisani in central Italy for the ceremony and reception.

The insider added that the villa is a 'beautiful location' and the couple 'fell in love with it' immediately after setting eyes on it.

They went on: 'Kelly has invited all her friends and stars like Kylie are on the guestlist. The ceremony is going to be really romantic but Kelly wants to give her family and pals a real party afterwards. She has been in talks with a company to put on a funfair for everyone  and the drinks will be flowing all night.

After earning her fortune following a successful 25 year career as a model, actress and media personality, it appears there was no expense spared when it came to making Kelly's wedding dream come true.

The source added: 'Kelly knows Jeremy is her soulmate and this is going to be her only wedding so shes going all out. All in it is looking to cost her between 300,000 and 500,000  but to her it is money well spent.

The insider continued to say that it is 'Kellys dream wedding' and that 'everything she ever wanted' is now 'becoming a reality.'
Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills star Erika Jayne was seen taking her pooch TIago to a fancy groomers weeks after being slapped with a $50 million racketeering lawsuit.

The 51-year-old, who is known for her glammed-up look, appeared to be uncharacteristically makeup-free in sweats while out with her Dutch Shepherd.

She brought Tiago this week to Posh Pet Care, a supply store and groomers located in the Beverly Grove area of West Hollywood.

Drop off?: Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills star Erika Jayne was seen taking her pooch TIago to a fancy groomers weeks after being slapped with a $50 million racketeering lawsuit

Her outing comes less than three weeks after she was slapped with a $50 million racketeering lawsuit in connection with her financial scandals.

Jayne was delivered legal papers by a process server on July 22 at Los Angeles International Airport, as she returned from a Hawaiian vacation.

Jayne, in the suit filed by Edelson PC, is accused of conspiracy to racketeering, conspiracy and unlawful business practice among nine charges, in connection with her estranged husband Tom Girardi's ongoing legal issues with his firm Girardi Keese.

In the legal docs, Girardi and Jayne are accused of misappropriating 'client settlement money to project an image of wealth and to prop up a lifestyle made for reality TV.'

Off they go: The 51-year-old, who is known for her glammed-up look, appeared to be uncharacteristically makeup-free in sweats while out with her Dutch Shepherd

Swank: She brought Tiago this week to Posh Pet Care, a supply store and groomers located in the Beverly Grove area of West Hollywood

Edelson PC said that the EJ Global company Jayne ran had been 'created for the purpose of funneling money from Girardi Keese to benefit' her.

Jayne was knowledgeable of Girardis embezzlement 'scheme' toward settlement funds earmarked for victims of the 2018 Lion Air Flight 610 crash, in which all 189 people onboard died, Edelson PC said in the suit.

In court docs, Edelson PC said Jayne was a 'frontwoman' for Girardi Keese, 'selling to the world' the notion that it 'was successful.'

By the way: Her outing comes less than three weeks after she was slapped with a $50 million racketeering lawsuit in connection with her financial scandals

Jayne was named in a prior racketeering suit filed in April that attorney Jay Edelson told Page Six in an email was 'more limited, in terms of who we sued, what we were suing about, and the legal theories we are pursuing.'

The suit Jayne was served with is aimed at 'prosecuting the claims of the clients (the widows and orphans)' involved in the crash settlement, Edelson said.

Edelson said he's confident his firm can 'can prove to a jury that the Girardi firm was, and has long been, a criminal enterprise.'

Jayne has spoken about her legal troubles on the popular reality show, denying all claims of wrongdoing while saying she felt 'terrible' about the course of events.

The firm Edelson PC said the law firm run by Tom Girardi, 83, was 'a criminal enterprise.' He was snapped in LA in 2018

Jayne filed for divorce from Girardi in November of 2020 after a 21-year marriage. The former couple was seen on RHOBH

She said on the show's season 11 reunion episode last fall, 'This is not who I am and I hope this is not who he is,' referring to Girardi, 83, of whom she said, 'I hope that he has not done what is alleged here.'

On an episode of the Bravo series earlier this month, Jayne went into detail about her marital status with Girardi, who she filed for divorce from in November of 2020 after a 21-year marriage.

Jayne said it wasn't sensible to 'get a divorce right now' from Girardi with the ongoing litigation and financial issues, noting 'theres so much legal s*** going on.'

She said, 'It's ironic, but if I was divorced from Tom, I'd have to pay him alimony... I'll stay married, thanks.'

Girardi has been living in a nursing home after he was diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. His license to practice law was revoked in March of 2021, and in July of that year, he was placed into a conservatorship by his brother Robert.

Jayne said on the show that her 'life has moved on and everything is separate' as she's 'legally separated,' adding, 'its a weird time and Im really ready for it to be over.'
Vicky Pattison sent pulses racing on Tuesday, as she shared a video of her posing in different outfits on her holiday to Croatia with her fiance Ercan Ramadan.

The former Geordie Shore star, 34, looked terrific in the clips as she slipped into a number of bikinis and maxi dresses.

She first slipped into a black bikini that showed off her toned stomach and long legs as she dangled them into the sea.

Turning up the heat: Vicky Pattison sent pulses racing on Tuesday, as she shared a video of her posing in different outfits on her holiday to Croatia with her fiance Ercan Ramadan

She then showed off her ample cleavage in a plunging fuschia pink silk dress with a daringly high slit.

Vicky then changed into a black zip up swimsuit that clung to her lithe figure and was belted to cinch her at her svelte waist.

She also modelled a brown knitted dress over a bikini, and a cream knitted maxi dress with an one-shoulder neckline.

Sensational: The former Geordie Shore star, 34, looked terrific in the clips as she slipped into a number of bikinis and maxi dresses

Her long brunette tresses were styled in soft waves and in many of the clips she shielded her eyes behind a pair of black sunglasses.

Captioning the video, she wrote: 'What I wore in hvar...'

It comes after Vicky said she finds it 'painful' to watch Geordie Shore as she reflected on her and her fathers relationship with alcohol on Wednesday.

Pretty in pink: She showed off her ample cleavage in a plunging fuschia pink silk dress with a daringly high slit

The reality star, who recently released a documentary titled Alcohol, Dad And Me, starred on the MTV series about hard-drinking Newcastle natives from 2011 until 2014.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast with Ben Thompson and Victoria Fritz, Vicky revealed how that version of herself no longer exists.

Vicky began: 'Everyone will assume they know all there is to know about me but this [the documentary] was pivotal, this is different, it wasn't so much honest as it was raw, it was hard.

'People used to watch Geordie Shore and think that they had me all figured out but 100 hours of footage go into 42 minutes of show.

Looking good: Vicky then changed into a black zip up swimsuit that clung to her lithe figure and was belted to cinch her at her svelte waist

Stylish: She also modelled a brown knitted dress over a bikini, and a cream knitted maxi dress with an one-shoulder neckline

'They were seeing a very small glimpse and probably a version of me that doesn't even exist anymore.'

Vicky detailed how she now finds it painful to watch back episodes of the MTV reality show as she added: I found it really painful and thats not just the fashion choices. My behaviour as well, Ive grown up a lot.

'I think its a huge transitional period for anyone between your early 20s and your early 30s but I did my growing up in the public eye which forces you to grow up a lot faster.

'There's real elements of myself and who I was then or at least who I was becoming that Im really not proud of and Im very pleased Ive managed to charter a different course for myself.'

Speaking of her father, John's addiction, she explained: 'When your a child you assume that what your childhood is, is completely normal it was only when I became an adult myself, when my friends had children that I realised that there's different ways of doing things.

'I know the experience is mine but I know I'm not the only one, one in five children grow up with an alcoholic parent.'
Reality star and author Christine Quinn looked more like a superhero than former reality show villainess as she strutted her stuff in a short, skin-baring outfit by designer Namilia Baker.

The beauty sported a motorcycle-inspired look when she headed out for frozen yogurt in Los Angeles on Monday.

The reality star turned heads as she pranced down a LA sidewalk.

Moto Momma: Christine Quinn wore a Namilia biker inspired outfit in Los Angeles on Tuesday

Quinn, who recently returned to Los Angeles after a whirlwind book signing tour for her best-seller How to Be a Boss B*tch,was a walking billboard in the avant-garde designers vegan leather moto cone dress and knee-high boots.

Quinn rocked the edgy black and neon green strapless mini dress today, but recently we have seen her in Balenciaga and Marc Jacobs as well.

Featuring a cone design at the bust and lace-up detail on the sides, the bustier style dress left little to the imagination showing off the stars notoriously lean physique.

Grease lightning, go grease lightning: The Selling Sunset star wore a Namilia biker-inspired outfit from head to toe

Quinn, the mother of a 15-month-old son with husband and business-partner Christian Dumontet, gave onlookers a show as she enjoyed the frozen treat.

The blonde bombshell wore her hair down short and straight.

Coupled with a fresh makeup look and dark black sunglasses, she exuded fierce sex appeal.

Rock it: Quinn, 33, rocked the edgy moto-inspired black and neon green strapless mini dress

Accessorizing further with matching Namilia moto boots and the designers classic green moto shoulder bag with metal hardware details, the in-your-face reality star suggestively licked her spoon while on lookers salivated.

Quinn has made waves in the press in recent months as she has been spotted wearing many fashion-forward designers masterpieces.

The star was last seen on social media on a gondola while in Venice, Italy.
Issa Rae has led the celebrity donations to the family of a 23-year-old pregnant woman who was killed along with five victims including her 11-month-old son and father of her child in a fiery 90mph car accident in Los Angeles last week.

The 37-year-old Los Angeles native - born Jo-Issa Rae Diop - contributed $2,500 to the GoFundMe set up by victim Asherey Ryan's family to raise $100K in order to help cover funeral expenses for the young mother.

The charitable crowdfunding cause has already well surpassed its goal totaling $160K at the time of publication as Issa was not the only celebrity who donated as filmmaker Ava DuVernay and Big Bang Theory actor Kunal Nayyar contributed $1K-a-piece.

Generous: Issa Rae (seen last month) has led the celebrity donations to the family of a 23-year-old pregnant woman who was killed along with five victims including her 11-month-old son and father of her child in a fiery 90mph car accident in Los Angeles last week

Victim: The 37-year-old Los Angeles native - born Jo-Issa Rae Diop - contributed $2,500 to the GoFundMe set up by victim Asherey Ryan's (pictured) family to raise $100K in order to help cover funeral expenses for the young mother

Traveling ICU nurse Nicole Lorraine Linton, 37, was traveling at speeds of at least 90mph last Thursday when she sped through a red light and hit crossing vehicles at the busy intersection of La Brea and Slauson Avenues.

Eight-month pregnant Asherey was pronounced dead at the scene alongside her 11-month-old child Alonzo Luchiano Quintero and her unborn baby boy following the horrible crash.

The unborn child's father, Renald, was also killed in the crash after the car split in half immediately on impact, those close to the family confirmed.

Senseless: Traveling ICU nurse Nicole Lorraine Linton, 37, was traveling at speeds of at least 90mph last Thursday when she sped through a red light and hit crossing vehicles at the busy intersection of La Brea and Slauson Avenues

Victim: Eight-month pregnant Asherey was pronounced dead at the scene alongside her 11-month-old child Alonzo Luchiano Quintero and her unborn baby boy following the crash

Victim: The father of the unborn child Reynold (right) also died in the deadly crash. He is pictured with Asherey

Asherey, Renald, and little Alonzo were on their way to a doctor's appointment for a pregnancy check-up when Linton smashed into the car they were traveling in.

It has been recently reported that Linton - who is in custody on six murder charges - has a 'profound' history of mental illness and has been involved in 13 prior crashes, but was still somehow subcontracted to work in a hospital and allowed to drive.

Big hearts: The charitable crowdfunding cause has already well surpassed its goal totaling $160K at the time of publication as Issa was not the only celebrity who donated as filmmaker Ava DuVernay (left) and Big Bang Theory actor Kunal Nayyar contributed $1K-a-piece

Linton is from Houston, Texas, and was in Los Angeles working as a contractor at the Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Hospital. She was working for the nursing contractor group AMN Healthcare, which she joined in October 2020.

AMN Healthcare did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding Linton's credentials on Tuesday.

Until 2009, Linton was working as a sales manager for General Motors, according to her LinkedIn profile. She began working in healthcare in 2010 as an 'extern' at NYU, despite not completing her nursing degree in 2015.

It has been recently reported that Linton (pictured) - who is in custody on six murder charges - has a 'profound' history of mental illness and has been involved in 13 prior crashes, but was still somehow subcontracted to work in a hospital and allowed to drive

In court yesterday, her attorney said she had a 'profound' history of mental health problems in other states.

He said they would have contributed to the crash, and asked for her arraignment to be delayed until October.

She did not have drugs or alcohol in her system, and her motive for running the red light and plowing through the intersection remains unclear.

Prosecutors also revealed in court that Linton was involved in 13 prior road accidents, including one in 2020 in which two vehicles were totaled.

The crashes were cited by The Los Angeles Times yesterday but no further details have emerged.

DailyMail.com obtained crash records from two incidents in Texas - one in 2013 and one in 2016.

In both cases, another driver rear-ended her vehicle.

Graphic shows the direction the SUV was going in along South La Brea Avenue when it ran the red light and caused the horrendous crash

The shocking footage, taken from a gas station overlooking the scene, starts as the Mercedes coupe races past the pumps at blistering pace

The doomed vehicle fails to break as it bears down on the traffic flowing both ways across the packed intersection

Tabia Johnson, a witness to the crash, took a photo of the suspect, Nicole L. Linton (center), commenting that Linton only appeared to suffer minor injuries in the horrible crash

Linton was working as a sales manager for General Motors until 2009, when she launched her nursing career

The California Highway Patrol declined to provide further details of any other crash.

Nicole L. Linton, 37, is being held on a $9million bond following the fatal car crash in Los Angeles

It remains unclear why Linton was able to work in healthcare, let alone in the ICU, with such extensive mental health problems as her attorney described.

On Monday, she sobbed in court as she was charged with six counts of murder.

'A young family was destroyed in the blink of an eye,' Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon said Monday.

'Theres catastrophic damage to the families and friends of those killed and injured.

'Its not only a tremendous loss to their families, but to our entire community, who learned of this incredible tragedy who watched the now viral video of the collision.'

Two other women remain unidentified. No one from Linton's family has yet spoken out.
Holliday Grainger looked as chic as ever on Tuesday, as she attended a photocall for the second series of BBC Drama The Capture.

The actress, 34, cut a very elegant figure in a black high-necked maxi dress decorated with white stars.

She added a belt to cinch her in at her svelte waist and elevated her height in a pair of blue and brown high heels.

Sophisticated: Holliday Grainger looked as chic as ever on Tuesday, as she attended a photocall for the second series of BBC Drama The Capture

Holliday - who will reprise her role as DCI Rachel Carey in series - accessorised with a pair of gold hoop earrings.

Her fiery red tresses were swept up in a neat bun, with several strands left down to frame her face.

She completed her look by opting for a light palette of makeup, including a dusting of blush and a swipe of pink lipstick.

Turning heads: She posed with her co-star Indira Varma, who stood out from the crowd in a mustard yellow maxi skirt

She posed with her co-star Indira Varma, who stood out from the crowd in a mustard yellow maxi skirt.

The actress, 48, teamed it with a black lacy blouse and a pair of matching black ballet flats.

They posed for a picture together with the rest of the cast - Chris Corrigan, Tessa Wong, Ben Miles and Joesph Arkley.

Stylish: Holliday - who will reprise her role as DCI Rachel Carey in series - accessorised with a pair of gold hoop earrings (pictured with Tess Wong)

According to the BBC, Holliday's character Rachel finds herself in the middle of a new conspiracy  with a new target in series two.

The new six-part season of The Capture six-part drama, which was written and directed by Bafta Award-winning filmmaker Ben Chanan, follows the success of the first series which aired in 2019.

It told the story of soldier Shaun Emery, played by Callum Turner, who was released from prison following a conviction for a murder in Afghanistan being overturned due to flawed video evidence.

Co-stars: They posed for a picture together with the rest of the cast - Chris Corrigan, Tessa Wong, Ben Miles and Joesph Arkley (L-R)

He was then falsely accused again and the video evidence wasnt quite as it seemed.

In 2020, The Mail on Sunday revealed that work on the second series of the hit drama had been put on hold due to Holliday's pregnancy.

The actress welcomed twins with her actor boyfriend Harry Treadaway, 37, last year. Harry is also a twin himself with actor brother Luke.

The star of TV hits Strike and The Capture once said that 'the thought of being recognised in the street is petrifying' and she and Harry stay out of the limelight.

They don't use social media, rarely speak about their six-year-long relationship and have not released any details about their twins, who are believed to have been born last spring.

Holliday has recently finished filming Troubled Blood - the latest series of the returning TV drama based on the Strike book franchise.

The Capture series two will air on BBC1 later this month.

One to watch: The Capture is a BBC1 thriller and Grainger will reprise her role as DCI Rachel Carey (above) in the second instalment
Addison Rae appears to have now unfollowed her mother Sheri Easterling on Instagram, not long after severing ties with her father Monty Lopez on the platform.

The move came several months after her father's alleged affair with 25-year-old influencer Renee Ash came to light.

Easterling commented on the unfollowing after the Instagram account, the Tik Tok Room TM, revealed the news.

'Heart wrenching': Addison Rae appears to have now unfollowed her mother Sheri Easterling on Instagram, not long after severing ties with her Monty Lopez on the platform

'Heart wrenching,' Easterling commented, along with an unhappy emoticon.

Easterling is just the latest family member Addison, 21, has hit the 'unfollow' button on in recent months.

Fans noticed Rae and her mother had unfollowed Monty on Instagram shortly before news of his alleged affair broke.

Both Easterling and Lopez still follow their daughter on the social platform.

Oh no: Sheri is now absent from Rae's 'following' list

Heartbreaking: Sheri commented on the unfriending after the Instagram account, the Tik Tok Room TM, revealed the news

The latest update comes after Addison expressed that she's been 'struggling to post and get out and do things' amid rumors of her dad's infidelity.

Earlier this summer a 25-year-old woman named Renee Ash alleged that Monty Lopez, 46, had a five-month affair with her while he was married to Addison's mother Sheri.

Although she hasn't publicly acknowledged the scandal, Addison posted a tweet hinting at her private turmoil last month.

'Ive really been struggling to post and get out and do things but I love you all and you mean so much more to me than I can ever express,' she wrote.

Severing ties: Rae also unfollowed her father Monty on Instagram after his alleged affair with an influencer came to light

'My life is forever changed thanks to all of the people who decided to care about me and support me. I love yall <3 life is weird but worth it.'

Since telling the world she had an affair with Lopez, Renee said she's she's been receiving death threats on social media.

'It's been horrible, I've been in hiding all week,' she told DailyMail.com. 'People are sending me death threats on Instagram. I haven't even checked TikTok, I'm sure they're on there too.'

Ash, herself a social media influencer, said that she and Lopez started hanging out as friends, then 'ended up falling in love.'

Mother daughter: The duo pictured togeter at the amfAR Gala Los Angeles 2021

'I don't go for looks, I'm a personality person,' she said, 'This one was, like, very questionable for me.'

Ash had previously said that Lopez had conned her into the affair, claiming he told her his marriage to Rae's mother, Sheri Nicole Easterling, was over and that he wanted to start a new family.

Lopez has not commented on the situation.

Ash told DailyMail.com that Lopez started out 'protective' over her in the relationship, 'and then it turned into very overbearing,' saying he laid out jealous rules about her talking to other men that he didn't uphold himself with other women.

'He was doing a lot of stuff behind my back that he was telling me not to do,' she said.

Ash said that she 'was not in contact' with Rae or her family, but that she would be open to speaking with them.

When asked if she had any regrets about the affair, she responded in absolute terms that she regrets 'spending any second with him.'
Louise Thompson has shared a candid post detailing a difficult day which saw her 'cry at every person who set foot in her house,' as she struggled with 'unbearable brain agitation.'

The former Made In Chelsea star, 32, has been struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder and perinatal anxiety since the birth of her son Leo.

In a post shared to Instagram Stories on Wednesday she said: 'Real talk. Today I can't hide the tears, I have cried to every poor person that has set foot in our house.'

'Real talk': Louise Thompson has shared a candid post detailing a difficult day which saw her 'cry at every person who set foot in her house,' as she struggled with 'unbearable brain agitation'

Alongside a sad looking selfie, she added: 'The brain agitation is just unbearable. Please someone make it go away.'

The reality star is battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and post-natal anxiety after two near-death experiences during Leo's birth eight months ago.

She has recently been attempting to lower her antidepressants dosage with guidance from her medical team.

Struggling: The former Made In Chelsea star, 32, has been struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder and perinatal anxiety since the birth of her son Leo

Last week the mum-of-one admitted she was struggling with her emotions as she contended with 'mum guilt' and her disappointment at missing her close friend's wedding.

WHAT IS POSTNATAL ANXIETY? As many as 17 per cent of new mothers experience postnatal anxiety after giving birth, studies suggest. It is thought to be caused by a combination of the shock of parenthood, hormonal fluctuations, and the impact family life has on sleep and stress levels. Some women experience postnatal generalised anxiety disorder, which is defined as a constant state of anxiety. This is where you worry about everything from your child's feeding patterns to your ability as a parent. Postnatal obsessive compulsive disorder occurs when a woman experiences distressing thoughts about harm coming to her baby. And postnatal health anxiety is when the mind becomes preoccupied that there may be something wrong with the baby's health. Many anxiety sufferers feel tense and on edge, and battle a constant sense of dread. They may also become paranoid that people can tell something is wrong. And their mind is often busy with thoughts and continuously dwelling on negative situations. Physical symptoms may include: Tense muscles and headaches

Pins and needles

Feeling lightheaded or dizzy

Sweating or hot flushes

Palpitations

Insomnia

Needing the toilet more or less frequently

Churning feeling in the stomach

Panic attacks Treatment is made up of talking therapies and anti-anxiety medication. People can help themselves cope by shifting their focus onto something small, like the details on a picture or the fabric of their clothes. Breathing exercises and staying active can also help. Advertisement

Sharing photos from her London home on Wednesday, Louise admitted she was 'struggling quite a lot this morning'.

'I have to be honest I feel a great sense of comfort and connectedness sharing on here.

I feel a sense of safety, like nothing can go wrong because we're all in this together. So I hope you don't mind but I'm going to stick with it,' she added of her willingness to share her feelings.

Louise demonstrated her morning qigong routine, a system of coordinated body-posture and movement, breathing, and meditation, which she has been practising over the past week to give her 'stability'.

She then clarified why she was finding the day so tough, explaining she was attempting to lower the dosage of her antidepressants.

'I am trying to lower my mirtazapine dose,' she wrote. 'I really just want to stabilise my body and brain naturally. I'm 4 days into a lower dose and this morning I feel all over the place.'

'I feel really dizzy and confused and quite outa body. Like I don't know where to place myself. I can't sit down or think straight.'

'I feel like my nervous system is malfunctioning. Thank goodness Leo is at nursery and I have Ryan.'

'Sometimes I think how the heck did this all happen to me? Give me my old brain back. I beg of you.'

Louise later shared her feelings of 'mum guilt' about sending her son to nursery two days a week, explaining that she hasn't even told her fans about Leo's nursery routine because she felt 'so guilty for sending him'.

'I think Ryan nonchalantly mentioned it on a story a while back and I freaked out a bit,' she admitted.

'Tbh when I think back to a few months ago I find it noting short of miraculous that I managed to achieve the simple task of finding and enrolling him into a lovely little school. Need to eliminate the mum guilt.'

To add to her struggles, Louise said she was gutted to be missing out on an important event this month- her best friend Binky Felstead's wedding in Corfu.

'Also feeling quite pants because I'm missing my beautiful besties wedding in Greece this week due to a boring hospital infusion tomorrow and other non negotiable medical appointments this week,' Louise wrote.

'I love you @binkyfelstead.'

Louise's MIC pal Binky held a second wedding ceremony with her fiance Max in Greece last week after legally getting hitched in London last year.

If you have been affected by this story please contact Birth Trauma Association at birthtraumaassociation.org.uk

For help and support with perinatal mental illness please contact PANDAS on 0808 1961 776
Gwyneth Paltrow's daughter Apple Martin was the spitting image of her famous mother as they ventured out in New York City on Tuesday.

The Oscar-winning actress, 49, proved the saying 'the apple doesn't fall far from the tree' as she and her daughter, 18, dropped by the Goop store in Manhattan.

Gwyneth looked youthful and relaxed in a striking white tunic-style top, which featured an opaque front with more translucent material covering her sides.

The Apple doesn't fall far from the tree: Gwyneth Paltrow, 49, and her daughter Apple Martin, 18, looked as if they were twins as they visited the Goop shop in Manhattan on Tuesday

Gwyneth completed her outfit with white sneakers, blue socks and baggy beige shorts that reached down past her ankles.

She carried along a canvas tote bag and wore a small red bag slung across her torso.

The Shakespeare In Love star's blonde hair was parted in the middle and tied back in a messy bun, while she blocked out the beaming sun with a chunky pair of black sunglasses.

Apple opted to stay cool with a wrinkled white sundress with a crinkled top and thick halter straps.

Matching: Apple was ready for summer in a wrinkled white sundress with a crinkled top and thick halter straps

Taking it easy: The Oscar-winning actress looked youthful and relaxed in a striking white tunic-style top, which featured an opaque front with translucent material covering her sides

Apple, whom Gwyneth shares with her ex-husband Chris Martin, completed her outfit with black sandals, and she wore her golden blonde locks tied back in a low-slung ponytail.

The actress and lifestyle guru appeared to be taking an active hand in overseeing her Goop company as they dropped by one of its physical locations.

The day before, Gwyneth tried to promote her pricey Goop goods with a revealing Instagram video of herself showering while lathering up with the Healthy Hair Starter Kit, which is currently sells for $77 on the brand's website, which is discounted from its original $110 price.

The two-step product includes a serum that is rubbed in prior to shampooing, followed by a salt scrub.

Off-duty beauty: The actress looked casual in her loose-fitting cream and white outfit

Low-key look: Gwyneth accessorised with a pair of aviator-style glasses and an orange leather cross body satchel

Keeping things comfortable: The screen star opted for a pair of pristine white sneakers

Washing off: The day before, Gwyneth tried to promote her pricey Goop goods with a revealing Instagram video of herself showering while lathering up with the Healthy Hair Starter Kit

Gwyneth shares Apple and her son Moses, 16, with her ex-husband Chris Martin, the frontman of Coldplay.

The couple started dating in 2002 and married the following year. In 2014, she famously announced that they were splitting up and engaging in a 'conscious uncoupling.'

Since then, the two have managed to peacefully co-parent their teens, and the two have remained regular fixtures in each other's lives.

Also in 2014, the Royal Tenenbaums star began dating American Horror Story producer Brad Falchuk, whom she met when she guest starred on his series Glee in 2010.

The lovebirds married in 2018 in the Hamptons.

Family: Gwyneth shares Apple and her son Moses, 16, with her ex-husband Chris Martin, the frontman of Coldplaym; seen together in 2014

New man: In 2014, the actress began dating American Horror Story producer Brad Falchuk, whom she met when she guest starred on his series Glee in 2010. They wed in 2018

After her Big Apple outing with her daughter Apple, Gwyneth returned to social media to pay tribute to the late pop icon and actress Olivia Newton-John.

She posted a sweet photo of herself smiling opposite the Grease star, who beamed while wearing a sheer alligator print blouse.

'Olivia Newton John, I hope you know what you meant to us. You were a huge inspiration in many ways. I think I believed We Are Magic because of you [sic],' Gwyneth sweetly captioned the photo.

Newton-John died on Monday at age 73 at her home in Santa Ynez, California, following a years-long battle with breast cancer, which had spread to her bones after her most recent recurrence in 2017.
Aubrey Plaza was a vision in white smocked crop top and matching skirt on Tuesday.

The 38-year-old actress was seen heading to the SAG-Aftra Foundation in New York where she chatted up her soon-to-be-released crime thriller Emily The Criminal.

The brunette beauty was joined by her co-star Theo Rossi as they lead an informed conversation about the film with an attentive audience.

Abs-olutely fabulous: Aubrey Plaza was a vision in white smocked crop top and matching skirt on Tuesday. The actress was seen heading to the SAG-Aftra Foundation in New York where she chatted up her soon-to-be-released crime thriller Emily The Criminal

Plaza, who is most widely known for her role in the sitcom Parks And Recreation, looked every part the budding movie star as she took center stage and later the streets of Manhattan by storm.

Plaza, who recently turned 38, chose an ethereal two piece spaghetti strap crop top and billowing skirt for the engagement that gave both a flirty and serious appeal in one.

The sweetheart neckline of the white crop top daintily accentuated the actress's decolletage.

You looking at me?: Plaza's high waisted skirt was cinched above her naval, the brunette beauty looked angelic as she later walked around Manhattan

Dressed to impress: The sweetheart neckline of the white crop top daintily accentuated the actress's decolletage

Complete with a high waisted skirt that was cinched above her naval, the brunette beauty looked angelic as she later walked around the city of Manhattan.

Clutching a disposable coffee cup in one hand and a black Bottega Veneta style woven leather purse in the other, the star looked every bit comfortable in her chic summertime outfit.

The toned actress paired her white two piece crop top and skirt with black acrylic soft cat-eye framed sunglasses and went jewelry free.

Navigating the streets of Manhattan, Plaza exuded a well-appointed old Hollywood glam image while being effortlessly laid back while in the concrete jungle.

Angelic: Complete with a high waisted skirt that was cinched above her naval, the brunette beauty looked angelic as she later walked around the city of Manhattan

With mic in hand: Plaza took part in SAG-AFTRA Foundation Conversations: Emily The Criminal at The Robin Williams Center in New York City

Kitten heel slides were Plaza's choice of footwear to round out her big city look.

The New York heatwave did not stop the star who is a frontrunner to be cast as the next 'Tomb Raider' from staying on the go.

While her mid-length brunette tresses fell from her morning's more coiffed look, Plaza stayed focused and content while making a statement in white.

In the evening, Plaza changed out of her frilly coord and into an elegant white minidress that highlighted her bronzed complexion.

Elegant: In the evening, Plaza changed out of her frilly coord and into an elegant white minidress that highlighted her bronzed complexion

A little boost: Giving her petite frame a boost, she styled the dress with some black platform heels

Giving her petite frame a boost, she styled the dress with some black platform heels.

Her brunette hair was parted to one side and styled in a vintage-inspired curls.

While on the red carpet, Plaza reunited with her Parks And Recreation co-star Amy Poehler.

The SNL alum beamed beside Plaza in an oversized silky black blouse that she tied in the front and styled with drawstring trousers.

Her blonde hair was pulled back in a messy ponytail and she had a noticeably glowy complexion.

Reunion: While on the red carpet, Plaza reunited with her Parks And Recreation co-star Amy Poehler

Strike a pose: Plaza and Poehler appeared to be having a blast during their time in front of the cameras, often striking a funny pose or two before bursting into laughter

Co-stars: Plaza seen with Theo Rossi and John Patton Ford

Plaza and Poehler appeared to be having a blast during their time in front of the cameras, often striking a funny pose or two before bursting into laughter.

Plaza has kept busy during her time in New York.

On Monday, she was featured on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon where she arrived in another pale suit.

Wide legged trousers and an oversized sport coat that screamed unisex 80s business attire were the
Biodiversity enhanced in China's Qinling Mountains

09:07, August 09, 2022 By Yuan Taoxiong ( People's Daily

The Qinling Mountains, a natural boundary between China's north and south, is an important region of water conservation for the Yellow River and Yangtze River basins. It is home to rich biological resources.

A crested ibis flies over a village in Yangxian county, Hanzhong, northwest China's Shaanxi province, Aug. 1, 2020. (People's Daily Online/Xu Congjun)

In recent years, northwest Chinas Shaanxi province has taken ecological protection and restoration in the Qinling Mountains as a priority, where ecology of human-nature harmony has taken shape.

In a wild crested ibis rescue and breeding center in Shaanxi Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve on the southern slope of the Qinling Mountains, there is a net cage covering an area of 10 mu, or nearly 0.67 hectares. The gigantic net cage is where crested ibises are trained before they are released into the wild.

After 40 years of efforts, the national nature reserve, mainly in Yangxian county, Shaanxis Hanzhong city, has achieved remarkable progress in the protection of crested ibises. At present, there are over 7,000 crested ibises on the nature reserve, and the species has expanded its range overseas.

So far, Shaanxi has established five artificial breeding centers for the rare bird species and developed four populations to be released into the wild, in an attempt to reintroduce the artificially bred crested ibises to their traditional habitats. The habitats of wild crested ibises now cover 16,000 square kilometers, from less than 5 square kilometers when they were discovered.

Apart from the expanding population of crested ibises, the number of key wild animals under national protection is also increasing, such as giant pandas, golden snub-nosed monkeys and takins.

Photo taken in September 2019 shows a crested ibis in northwest China's Shaanxi province. (People's Daily Online/Meng Wu)

Besides, there are also achievements in plant protection. Primula filchnerae, a species that once had been considered extinct, was rediscovered in Yangxian county in 2015. Last year, Kingdonia uniflora, a species of perennial herbs under Chinas first-class protection, was discovered for the first time under an altitude of 2,700 meters in the Taibai Mountain, the main peak of the Qinling Mountains. Recently, Cardiocrinum cathayanum and Allium tsinlingense were found for the first time in the Qinling Mountains.

Shaanxi has been taking ecological conservation as a top priority in recent years, and implemented a series of restoration projects such as protecting natural forests, constructing nature reserves and returning farmland to forest and grassland. A total of 116 reserves have been built in the Qingling Mountains, covering a total of 9,200 square kilometers. Over 75 percent of the ecosystems and over 70 percent of wildlife species in Shaanxi province have been protected in the reserves.

A digital monitoring network has been built in the Qinling Mountains, which employs internet of things monitoring, thermal imaging recognition, drone patrol and a smart eco-protection system. These technologies form a three-dimensional remote sensing monitoring system that helps to safeguard the ecology in the Qinling Mountains.

According to forestry authorities in Shaanxi province, more than 70 percent of wildlife species in the province have been put under protection, and the population of species under key protection has been on a constant rise.

Photo taken in October 2016 shows takins wandering in a nature reserve in northwest China's Shaanxi province. (People's Daily Online/Li Dehua, Miu Tao)

The population of wild giant pandas in Shaanxi increased from 109 in the 1980s to 345 at the time of Chinas fourth national giant panda survey. The number of golden snub-nosed monkeys hit 5,900, and the population of takins exceeded 5,000. Chinese yew, Chinese dove-tree, Kingdonia uniflora, Psathyrostachys huashanica, Larix chinensis and other endangered plant species have all been effectively protected.

The plan to create the Qinling Mountains National Park was officially approved in October, 2021. It will further enhance the ecological efforts in the Qinling Mountains. To protect the authenticity and integrity of natural ecosystems in the mountain range, a science-based protection and management mechanism centering is being developed, with a focus on the ecological restoration of the Qinling Mountains.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
She is as known for her stunning figure as she is her rap prowess.

And Cardi B certainly put one of those things on display in her latest social media post.

The 29-year-old Bodak Yellow hitmaker took to Instagram on Monday to share a series of snap as she showcased her rock hard abs.

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Abs-olutely faboulous: Cardi B took to Instagram on Monday to share a series of snap as she showcased her rock hard abs

She donned a white sleeveless cropped top with a pair of baggy blue ripped jeans for the gallery.

Cardi added plenty of color to a relatively plain look in the form of hot pink Balenciaga x Crocs rain boots and a large multicolored furry hat.

Her raven colored tresses were worn down under her fashionable headwear as she accentuated her natural looks with complementary make-up.

Lovely lady: The 29-year-old Bodak Yellow hitmaker donned a white sleeveless cropped top with a pair of baggy blue ripped jeans for the gallery

Colorful character: Cardi added plenty of color to a relatively plain look in the form of hot pink Balenciaga x Crocs rain boots and a large multicolored furry hat

Stunning: Her raven colored tresses were worn down under her fashionable headwear as she accentuated her natural looks with complementary make-up

She said she originally wasn't going to post the snaps but loved her look so much that it had to go on Instagram.

The Up hitmaker captioned the gallery to her 140million followers: 'I said I wasnt going to post until [winky face emoji]..but I liked my outfit a lot to not share [smirk emoji].'

This came just a day after Cardi B was left thrilled when she discovered famous characters Madea and Mrs Brown reacted to her hit song WAP in comical Netflix film.

Pretty: She said she originally wasn't going to post the snaps but loved her look so much that it had to go on Instagram

The rapper took to her Instagram Stories to express how happy she was that her track was featured in A Madea Homecoming.

Mabel Earlene 'Madea', played by Tyler Perry, and Agnes Loretta Brown, played by Brendan O'Carroll, were shocked at the graphic lyrics in the song.

As the song began to play, Mrs Brown looked around and asked Madea: 'What did she say? A bucket and a mop?'

The Up hitmaker captioned the gallery to her 140million followers: 'I said I wasnt going to post until [winky face emoji]..but I liked my outfit a lot to not share [smirk emoji]'

With Madea replying: 'Honey if it's that wet you need a gynaecologist,' with the pair both giggling.

Cardi B shared Netflix's post with her 140 million Instagram followers and wrote: 'I can't believe this was real! I was so happy'

Tyler brought his famous alter-ego Madea out of retirement for his latest film which was released in February, with Mrs Brown featuring in it.

Happy: This came just a day after Cardi B was left thrilled when she discovered famous characters Madea and Mrs Brown reacted to her hit song WAP in comical Netflix film

Thrilled: The rapper, 29, took to her Instagram Stories to express how happy she was that her track was featured in A Madea Homecoming

Hilarious: Mabel Earlene 'Madea', played by Tyler Perry, and Agnes Loretta Brown, played by Brendan O'Carroll, were shocked at the graphic lyrics in the song

It comes after Brendan was accused of making a 'blatantly racist' joke about his black co-star Tyler.

Earlier in the year, he appeared on an episode of The One Show alongside Tyler to promote their new Netflix comedy A Madea Homecoming.

Yet talk soon turned Brendan's hit BBC One show Mrs Brown's Boys, as he was asked whether he would have Tyler on to guest star.

Brendan quipped: 'He's very expensive, and so far we haven't had anyone of his colour in there,' while gesturing to his own face.

'Blatant racism on prime time TV': Brendan (right) has been slammed for 'ignorant' joke about Tyler on an episode of The One Show

He continued: 'So I don't know if we could have him in but I'd love that, but more importantly, I'd love to do another movie with him.'

Laughing, Tyler then repeated 'Nobody my colour,' before adding: 'Diversity rules!'

While Tyler laughed off the joke, viewers were left shocked by the remarks, taking to Twitter to condemn Brendan while also calling out BBC for not issuing an apology on air.

Brendan's representative declined to comment when approached by MailOnline.

Mrs Brown's Boys follows loud-mouthed Irish matriarch Agnes (Brendan) whose favourite pastime is meddling in the lives of her six children.

The BBC series has previously been accused of promoting racist stereotypes for its cliched portrayal of the Irish, as well as sexism, for the frequent gynaecological jokes, and homophobia for the cliched portrayal of Mrs Brown's homosexual son Rory (Rory Cowan).

Brendan O'Carroll previously insisted the show will never be driven off the air by political correctness.

In an interview with The Irish Sun he said: 'I dont think Mrs Brown will be affected [by political correctness] and I often question myself is Mrs Brown - me a man dressing up as a woman to play Mrs Brown - the same as blackface?

'And I decided no its not, because Ive never played Mrs Brown as a man playing a woman like they do in films like Mrs Doubtfire. Agnes is a woman like Dame Edna.

'I would never go out of my way to be racist or homophobic so Im not that worried myself because I only write what I think is funny, and you hope that enough of an audience agrees with you.'
Another incident on the set of the FX drama Justified: City Primeval has occurred.

Police in Chicago confirmed that a person threw an incendiary device toward the set of the program filming in the city's South Loop area on Monday, Deadline reported Tuesday.

No one was injured in the incident, in which authorities said occurred at around 10:20 p.m. in the 1000 block of South Desplaines Street, as a person lit a device and threw it toward the set, ABC7 reported. Officials said the device did not explode and no one had been taken into custody in the incident.

The latest: Another incident on the set of the FX drama Justified: City Primeval, which stars Timothy Olyphant, 54, has occurred. Police in Chicago confirmed that a person threw an incendiary device toward the set of the program filming in the city's South Loop area on Monday

Monday's incident came nearly three weeks after a July 21 incident in which a gunfight took place between vehicles while the show was filming near Douglass Park. In the incident, the vehicles careened through barricades put up on the set, where shell casings were later retrieved.

At the time of the incident, cast and crew members present - including actor Timothy Olyphant, who plays U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens - got on the ground and took cover, Deadline reported.

In the wake of the exchange, Sony hired a special security team comprised of former Navy SEALs and Army Rangers equipped to deal with high-threat scenarios, including a veteran hostage negotiator.

FX Chairman John Landgraf earlier this month said of the incident at the TCA FX executive session, 'I think it was a pretty traumatic experience for the cast and crew to be anywhere near that kind of gunfire. A lot was done to take a break and make sure everyone was OK, and we [increased] security.'

Olyphant was seen with Margo Martindale and Erica Tazel on a previous episode of the series

Olyphant plays the role of U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens on the reboot of the series

He added: 'We take that stuff really seriously, we are glad that no one was injured, and we are glad that we were able to get back to production safely.'

Following the incident, the Chicago Police Department said in a statement that it was 'committed to ensuring members of the citys vibrant film and television community are able to do their jobs safely.

'We work in close coordination with the Chicago Film Office, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and the Office of Emergency Management and Communications to ensure production crews have the resources necessary to feel safe and secure while filming in the citys neighborhoods.'

The incident came days after a 31-year-old crew member named Johnny Pizarro was fatally shot in Brooklyn, New York on July 19 while working on the set of Law & Order: Organized Crime.

Justified: City Primeval is a reboot of the series Justified, which ran on the network from 2010-2015 and starred Natalie Zea, who is now on La Brea.

It is based off the 2009 Elmore Leonard book City Primeval: High Noon in Detroit, and slated to run for eight episodes. The storyline is set seven years after the conclusion of Justified, trailing the Givens character as he raises his teen daughter after moving from Kentucky to Miami.

The cast includes Boyd Holbrook, Adelaide Clemens, Aunjanue Ellis, Vondie Curtis Hall, Marin Ireland, Victor Williams, Norbert Leo Butz and Vivian Olyphant.
Joe Exotic is hoping his new friendship with 90 Day Fiance's Jesse Meester could bring him one step closer to President Biden granting him clemency.

In his latest Instagram post, the 59-year-old convicted felon, who rose to fame on Netflix's hit show Tiger King, shared a shirtless snap of the reality star, 29, who he called an 'amazing dear friend.'

'You will see him around on my stuff more and more as he is going to help me get a voice to the White House for President Biden to sign my pardon before November of this year,' the disgraced zookeeper captioned the image.

Optimistic: Joe Exotic is hoping his new friendship with 90 Day Fiance's Jesse Meester could bring him one step closer to President Biden granting him clemency

The Tiger King star, who was convicted and sentenced to 22 years in prison on 17 federal charges of animal abuse and two counts of attempted murder for hire, added: 'Show him some love. Love you, Jesse.'

In response, the 90 Day alum left a comment under the post, in which he praised Exotic  whose real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage  for his resilience.

'We love you too Joe! People close to you turned their back on you, but not us. You helped many people through lockdown and we should never forget the truth and authenticity you lived your life with,' Meester wrote.

'You will see him around on my stuff more and more as he is going to help me get a voice to the White House for President Biden to sign my pardon before November of this year,' the disgraced zookeeper captioned the image

The reality star concluded: 'It's sad that the backstabbing and lying has become the norm [in] this society. Time to unite and fight back to get you out.'

In November, Exotic requested a prison release in order to seek treatment another he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer.

'Update [sad face emoji] Everyone, It is with a sad face that I have to tell you the doctors called me in today to break the news that my prostate biopsy came back with an aggressive cancer, I am still waiting on the results from other test as well,' he told his followers.

Exotic continued: 'Right now I don't want anyone's pity and I'm sure Carole Will have her own party over this! What I need is the world to be my voice to be released, they have the proof I DID NOT DO THIS!'

In January 2020, a federal jury found him guilty on two counts of hiring someone to murder Baskin in Florida, on eight counts of violating the Lacey Act by falsifying wildlife records, and on nine counts of violating the Endangered Species Act by killing five tigers and for selling tigers across state lines

Trying to get out: In November, Exotic requested a prison release in order to seek treatment another he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer

Back in August 2021, he revealed that his prostate cancer may have spread to his stomach and pelvis and prefers to die if it is stage three or four as he criticized the US criminal justice system over lack of medical treatment for prisoners.

At the time, the zoo owner said that he has not had any treatment in jail - as he serves a 22 year prison sentence in Fort Worth, Texas - since his diagnosis months ago and fears that the cancer has spread.

On August 9, Exotic told The Sun: 'I have been waiting for a colonoscopy and endoscopy since October. Medical treatment in a prison is worse than at any humane society for dogs.'

The American media personality was convicted on 17 federal charges of animal abuse and two counts of attempted murder for hire in his plot to kill nemesis and Big Cat Rescue owner, Carole Baskin in 2019.

The case was the focus of highly-popular 2020 Netflix series Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness.

Sad: Back in August 2021, he revealed that his prostate cancer may have spread to his stomach and pelvis and prefers to die if it is stage three or four as he criticized the US criminal justice system over lack of medical treatment for prisoners

Exotic explained that he was recently forced to undergo a CT scan last week and the results were not encouraging.

He said: 'They are concerned it is in my stomach and pelvis. I have not had any treatment or anything since May. I puke when I pee - the pain is that bad.

'I'm losing weight all the time and the pain in my hip and pelvis hurts. I limp to walk. And my stomach has hurt for over a year.'

The Netflix star said that he hopes to be taken to a specialist medical center for 'many tests' including a 'biopsy of my prostate and bladder, colonoscopy and endoscopy.'

Diagnosis: Back in May 2021, he took to Twitter to share his cancer diagnosis and once again pleaded for a pardon from President Joe Biden in the wake of his illness: 'My PSA count came back very high for prostate cancer. The prison has approved testing to verify what stage it is in'

However, Exotic says that he will refuse medical treatment if the disease has progressed to stage three or four.

He explained: 'When we find out where and how bad it is I will decide if I am going to do treatment. If it's stage three or four I am going to let it take me.'

Exotic also criticized the US criminal justice system over lack of medical treatment for prisoners as he accused prison doctors of 'not giving a s***.'

He told the publication: 'This is crazy how they put people in here and just let you die.

'The things that I've seen and the dead people I've seen wheeled out of here is outrageous and it's time that our president and our politicians hear the truth.'
Andhra Pradesh: Chief Minister Jagan Reddy on Sunday gave a vivid picture of the initiatives being taken by his government in agriculture and education sectors besides other areas of governance.

Speaking at the Niti Aayog governing council meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the cultural centre in Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi on Sunday, the chief minister said AP has turned into an agrarian state post the 2014 bifurcation. Priority is being given to agriculture that now accounts for 35 per cent of the state GDP and 62 per cent of the population is dependent on this sector, he said.

The chief minister also gave a presentation on his governance, highlighting the village and ward secretariats and volunteer system, which is taking governance to the doorsteps of the people.

Jagan said his governance was corruption-free and transparent.

Listing out the various welfare steps for the farmers, the chief minister referred to the YSR Rythu Bharosa-PM Kisan, the free crop insurance, nine hours free power for farms, besides the setting up of 10,778 Rythu Bharosa Kendaras (RBKs) that served as a one-stop solution to all the agriculture needs of farmers, the supply of seeds to fertilizers, pesticides, the input subsidies and the states guidance to the farmers till the sale of their produce.

He said, Making use of the digital technology, we have also introduced the CM App which monitors the crop purchase. Wherever needed, the government itself is buying the produce to help farmers. E-cropping is also done at RBKs, which also have kiosks. Farmers can order online their requirements, which will be supplied to them at their doorsteps.

An integrated call centre is also in place to provide information, clear doubts and create awareness among farmers on the agricultural issues. We are also putting in efforts to shift the farmers towards organic mode by promoting changes in crop patterns and millets.
The first posting of an All-India Service officer, often in a predominantly rural setting, has been likened to ones first love. It remains firmly etched in memory. Therefore, visiting that place after a few decades would naturally evoke a lot of mixed emotions.

I still remember the day in Mussoories Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration when I was informed about the allotment of Andhra Pradesh as my cadre state, and later, of Srikakulam as the district of my training in 1976. My first reaction was not euphoric. As one born and raised in Calcutta, my idea about Andhra Pradesh and Srikakulam was fairly rudimentary, the latter having been known for Naxalite activities. On completion of my probation in the IAS, I was posted as the officer in charge of Tekkali sub-division during 1977-79. Since understanding breeds love, my three-year stint in this district, remotest from the state capital of Hyderabad and nearest from Calcutta, made an impression that remains indelible.

Recently, accompanied with my daughter, I visited Vizag, Araku, Srikakulam and Tekkali, in coastal Andhra. Evidently, positive changes were noticed everywhere. The national highway from Visakhapatnam is of world standard, small towns and villages appear more prosperous, men and women look healthier and better dressed, government offices are no longer as shabby as before. The Araku valley is now a tourist's delight and its coffee widely admired.

The ubiquitous jeeps and Ambassador cars for officials have now been replaced by air-conditioned SUVs. ATMs are scattered everywhere. These changes could be anticipated, given Indias steady growth over the past decades and the states uninterrupted rise in most fields.

The Indian elephant moves slowly but surefootedly. Thus, spectacular changes observed in cities like Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam cannot be discerned in small mofussil towns and villages. But quiet, fundamental changes can be noticed as shaping life everywhere.

After reaching Tekkali, I was enquiring about the personal staff who had cared for me those days  the jeep driver Veerabhadra Rao, the daffedar Damodar Patnaik, Tirupati Rao, Raja Rao and others. The local gentry that befriended me included the noted scholar in English literature, Ronanki Appalaswami, who used to explain the nuances of T.S. Eliots poetry and showed me the facsimile of Eliots manuscript of The Waste Land with extensive suggestions by Ezra Pound, Dr Rama Rao, who wrote a long essay on Tagore, and my neighbour, Dr Joga Rao. I also forged a life-long friendship with Dr Y.V. Krishna Rao, the government physician at nearby Palasa. Sadly, they have all passed away. But what gladdened my heart is that the son of Raja Rao, who delighted us with preparations like caramel custard and prawn curry, is currently the tehsildar there.

Has the quality of administration or delivery of public services changed for the better? Without falling into the trap of senior citizens who find it difficult to appreciate the new tidings and feel that things are steadily going downhill, one observes that the administrative processes have been simplified, public grievances are better responded to, and affirmative actions by the state have been yielding good dividends. Discussions with the district collector and functionaries of the revenue and forest departments seemed to confirm my impressions.

Take the disposal of land acquisition cases, for example, that revenue officials used to spend considerable time on. Once an award was finalised, started the long legal process for the aggrieved landholders demanding enhanced compensation. This process has been shortened and streamlined under the new law, benefiting the affected individuals considerably. Besides, responding to enquiries under the Right to Information Act, constant updating and digitisation of land records, initiating environment impact assessment and protection measures (for mining and irrigation projects, for instance), etc, engage the attention of officials much more than before. Providing rice at `1 per kg through the public distribution system has been standardised. All these have been possible on account of extensive use of computer and appropriate technologies. Video-conferencing has become the new normal.

State governments are generally chief minister-centric. Andhra Pradesh is no exception.

Posters and framed photographs of the chief minister are visible all over. Of the people we spoke to, many appeared critical of the freebie culture and lack of industrialisation, among other things, but such criticism has not so far turned into anger.

While the facade of the sub-collectors office remains the same, giving a sense of continuity, the interiors look spic and span. The adjoining residential quarter is a much more modern structure now, the old one having been demolished. It suddenly crossed my mind that the government during my time was addressed for sanctioning a compound wall for the modest, single-storey residence, after wild bears had been noticed to be loitering around at night!

Immediately after my marriage, I recollect the long jeep drive with my wife from Palasa station on the Howrah-Madras line to Tekkali. After a busy day, when the night descended, we used to spend some quiet time together in our little abode, undisturbed by the hustle bustle of city life that we were used to. Gradually, the joy of discovering the place and its people started permeating our whole existence.

Travelling back in time, I derived some satisfaction from the visible development all around, tinged with some sadness for the days gone by.
The Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), a global terror group, was using the dark web for peer-to-peer communication within its network to further its activities in Assam, the police said.

Thus, it was taking them more than the usual time to unearth the networks modus operandi.

The revelation came consequent to the arrest of a 22-year-old woman from western Assams Dhubri district, the police said. The woman, Jahura Khatun, is the wife of Abu Taleb, a member of the ABT, who was absconding since the police launched a crackdown against the groups terror modules. Khatun was arrested on Sunday from the Naeragla Part II village of Dhubri, which shares a border with Bangladesh.

Read | Assam to identify 'push factors' aiding fundamentalist terror groups

The two mobile phones we recovered from Jahura revealed that they (ABT) were using sophisticated software for peer-to-peer communication, where messages are encrypted. Such applications are either specially made or purchased using the dark web. So, we suspect that they might have cyber experts who can help them use the dark web. We have engaged cyber experts to examine the mobile phones and other digital devices to unearth more details about their communication system, Gaurav Abhijit Dilip told reporters in Dhubri on Monday.

The dark web, a specialised portion of the world wide web, can only be accessed through special software which helps the users remain unknown and untraceable, which makes it difficult for the law enforcement agencies to find them and detect any nefarious activities planned over the dark web.

The police in Assam arrested at least 31 persons, including a Bangladeshi national, since it launched in March the drive to curb terror in the state.

Five other Bangladeshi nationals, who were allegedly involved in indoctrinating local Muslim men to carry out jihad in Assam were on the run, the police said.
Groups from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur and Nagaland on Tuesday said that they will protest on August 12 against the Centres inaction about a long-overdue delimitation exercise. The Delimitation Demand Committee for the NE States (DDC-NE), as well as the North East Students Forum on Delimitation (NESFOD) made fresh demands of delimitation in these states, which has not happened since 1973.

The DDC-NE even filed a public interest litigation suit in the Supreme Court, after which the apex court sent notices to the Election Commission, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Ministry of Law and Justice on July 25.

In their petition, the DDC-NE had stated that selectively denying delimitation to these four northeastern states, while being conducted in the rest of India, was in violation of the fundamental right under Article 14 of the Constitution.

A Presidential order from February 28, 2020, had asked for a delimitation exercise in these four states; subsequently, in a notification issued on March 6, 2020, the Centre constituted a Delimitation Commission for the purpose of delimitation of assembly and parliamentary constituencies in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, and the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Nagaland.

The Centre appointed retired Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai as the chairperson, but the exercise was restricted only to Jammu and Kashmir.

The DDC-NE said it had submitted a memorandum in 2021 and 2022 to the prime minister for the implementation of the Delimitation Act, 2002, in these four states but did not receive any response.

A Worso Zimik, an advocate of Delhi High Court who headed the DDC-NEs legal cell, said that ideally the Desai Commission should have been limited to Jammu and Kashmir. Because Section 8A of Representation of Peoples Act states that the Election Commission should carry out the delimitation, Zimik said.
The Opposition on Tuesday pounded on the Narendra Modi government over the early adjournment of Parliaments Monsoon Session claiming that it has to do with the political developments in Bihar where the NDA lost its government, even as the ruling dispensation dismissed criticism saying the decision was taken following demands from all sides.

Congress General Secretary (Communications) Jairam Ramesh tweeted, In March 2020, Modi Sarkar postponed Covid-19 lockdown to engineer the fall of the Kamal Nath government in Madhya Pradesh. Now, it cuts short Parliament session knowing its coalition government in Bihar is going. What goes up must come down!

In March 2020, Modi Sarkar postponed COVID-19 lockdown to engineer the fall of the Kamal Nath govt in MP. Now, it cuts short Parliament session knowing its coalition govt in Bihar is going. What goes up must come down!  Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) August 9, 2022

Also Read | Chirag Paswan slams Nitish Kumar for insulting people's mandate twice, seeks fresh polls in Bihar

Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha floor leader Derek OBrien also sought to draw a parallel with Bihar developments saying, BiharPolitics. Another big reason why Prime Minister Narendra Modi and (Home Minister) Amit Shah ran away and shut down Parliaments Monsoon Session four days early."

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi countered the Opposition leaders, saying the session was not adjourned four days in advance but only two working days ahead of schedule and the decision was taken on the request of MPs, including those from Opposition."

Also Read | BJP weighs options as JD(U) walks out of coalition in Bihar

Opposition's propaganda is discussion but agenda is disruption and boycotteven today, they are leaving no stone unturned by not allowing Parliament, the temple of democracy, to debate on national issues. More than 50 per cent of the time in the recently concluded session was sacrificed through disruptions, he said in response to a press conference held by Congress.

Ramesh and Congress Deputy Leader in Lok Sabha Gaurav Gogoi claimed that the Monsoon Session was "highly disappointing." They alleged that the government did not have the appetite to run proceedings till the scheduled date of August 12.

Also Read | Nitish Kumar resigns as Bihar CM after breaking alliance with BJP

It was extraordinary that one-and-a-half-day of proceedings were disrupted by treasury benches which kept insisting on an apology from Congress president Sonia Gandhi for remarks made by Leader of the Party in Lok Sabha who had already apologised for his statement both verbally as well as in writing, Ramesh said.

"There was no enthusiasm or appetite on part of the government to get bills passed. Normally the opposition says the House should be adjourned but this time the government had no appetite to run the house, he said adding that the Opposition was ready to sit on August 10 and 12 to discuss and pass bills but the government was in a rush to curtail the session.
Old habits, paternalism and the patriarchal order live on. Neither time nor education seems to change the inheritance of patriarchy. Even after 75 years of Independence, there is a wilful violation and deliberate encouragement to those who are determined to deny the basic foundational value of equal rights for all citizens.

There are signs of a deeper crisis that is spreading rapidly across India as it enters the 25 years of its Amrit Kaal (whatever that may signify) following the celebration of 75 years of Independence as the Amrit Mahotsav, a strange coinage that seems to signify much, but lacks the substance to make it feel real. There is a rot that has gnawed away the fundamentals of a rule-based constitutional democracy, where orders are obeyed in letter and spirit and the mandate of the people reflected in the choice of a representative is respected, without exception.

Incidents in Madhya Pradesh, where the Bharatiya Janata Party is in power, reveal the nature of the problem and the crisis of governance. As examples, the two incidents could be dismissed as trivial lapses, or they could be examined as reflections of the underlying disorder and the growing power of the disorderly.

Also read | Missing: Women in the workforce

It is astonishing that two male experienced civil servants, since Zilla Parishad CEOs are required to be government servants of Deputy Commissioner rank, scrambled to cover up two reported incidents in Sundrel in Dhar and Gaisabad in Damoh. The two CEOs tacitly consented to making women non-persons. And in one place, the administration, which is responsible for upholding the rule-based order, chose to honour the forces of disorder.

In both places, recently elected women from reserved constituencies for the Scheduled Castes were excluded, while their husbands stepped in and took the oaths of office and secrecy. Operating in a time warp, where the Constitution of India does not exist, guaranteeing equality under Article 14 and prohibiting discrimination under Article 15, "the State shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them", the two CEOs tacitly consented to making women non-persons.

These two powerful men tried to explain their consent to the disgraceful exhibition of patriarchal power by describing what happened as a "procedural lapse" and claimed immunity from blame and failure to uphold the Constitution and implement the rules by shifting the onus to the women. The Dhar CEO was clueless about how women's right to equality had been trampled on his watch. He is reported as saying, "If any winning candidate raises an objection or lodges a complaint of a violation of her rights, especially by male members of her family, appropriate action will be taken."

Also read | India's abortion law: Why it fails many women

The Sundrel gram panchayat secretary absolved himself by claiming that none of the men "were ready to accept the women as panchs." His excuse was the men felt it went against their "family custom." To cap it, the CEO said that "training sessions for the winning candidates" would be organised to inform and educate them about their rights.

In Sundrel gram panchayat in Dhar, BJP leader Radheshyam Kasrawadiya administered the oaths of office and secrecy. The CEO covered up by declaring questions would be asked about how a politician had officiated.

It is difficult to choose between horror and foreboding as a reaction to the Madhya Pradesh incidents because India is now 75 years old as an Independent country and 72 years old as Republic. It is not a fledgling democracy. It is not a new Republic.

It is, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Sunday, a "model" that the world acknowledges of a strong and fully functional federal government. It is also an achiever, as Modi informed chief ministers of the states who attended the meeting of the NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog, as he asked them to highlight the successes of the state during his Presidency of the G20, an intergovernmental forum of 19 countries and the European Union, comprising 27 countries.

What will India showcase to the world? The inability of its political class to uproot the cruelly discriminatory patriarchal-caste order or the erosion of a rule-based order? Madhya Pradesh is not the exception; it reflects the new reality, where the government and its institutions back off as politicians of ruling regimes exercise powers in violation of the rules.

Will India continue to seriously object to every international evaluation of its flaws as a democracy? Will it challenge every international evaluation of its failure to protect, leave alone respect, human rights?

Deeper than reservation and at the core of the rule-based order is the principle of separation of powers to create a system of checks and balances, wherein the legislature, the executive and the judiciary are separate and independent. The institutional structure underlying this order is the vacuum-sealed separation of the political class, like the BJP leader who administered the oaths of office and secrecy, from the executive apparatus, like the CEO of the Zilla Parishad.

The wilful denial of power to women in general and scheduled caste women in particular, by making them non-persons, as the incidents in Madhya Pradesh reveal, is the measure of discrimination and denial of rights to citizens in India 75 years after 1947. In Madhya Pradesh, the women were elected from constituencies reserved for them. The reservation policy for women at the panchayat level was brought in through a Constitutional Amendment in 1992. The reservation of electoral constituencies for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, to ensure that there was a modicum of representation of the most backward and socially discriminated, is one of the foundational values of the Constitution.

The laws do not make India an ugly place to live in. It is the failure of the political class and the governments they run that makes it a cruel, violent, corrupt, immoral, unjust and unequal, intolerant and irrational country.

Warped thinking and values have grown instead of being permanently deleted, like the precedence of family custom over rights. It is perhaps inevitable in a democracy that is more and more autocratic in its ways, where the institutions of debate like Parliament are held hostage by the majority and the opposition, regardless of its numerical strength, is more and more marginalised, almost a dummy. The deification of India as Bharat Mata, once an exquisite watercolour painting and now a garish mass-produced icon, reflects the direction in which the idea of India has changed, from a country where the mind, if not quite free, was nevertheless free enough to strive to be free to a country that seems to be propelling itself into fragmenting its unity in diversity by building "narrow domestic walls."

Read alongside Rabindranath Tagore, who gave voice to the genius of India, the current agenda of the ruling regime reflected in its message to citizens to celebrate Independence by flying the flag and thinking  One Nation, One Emotion, One Identity  is a stark contrast, almost a brutal erasure of rich legacy of the freedom movement and efforts to replace it with a rootless, concocted narrative of victimhood and assertion, of the rights of the majority and the composite idea of Hindutva.

(Shikha Mukerjee is a journalist based in Kolkata)

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author's own. They do not necessarily reflect the views of DH.
With the exit of the Janata Dal (United) from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has lost another of its oldest friends.

The Shiromani Akali Dal, the Shiv Sena and the JD(U)'s earlier avatar, the Samta Party, had stood with the BJP even during the years the Hindutva party was considered a political pariah. All three have severed ties with the BJP since the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, and when it is at the height of its electoral sway. The BJP's tensions with another of its crucial southern allies, the Edappadi K Palaniswami-led AIADMK, have surfaced lately.

Former allies, like the Akalis, complained that the BJP had forgotten 'gathbandhan dharma', a process of regular consultations that the BJP's top leaders had with their allies, which kept the NDA vibrant. But of late, particularly after the split in the Sena, the fear among smaller allies is existential. Their leadership believes the BJP could usurp or split their parties, or they risk losing their respective support bases by aligning with the BJP.

Also Read | Nitish Kumar splits with ally BJP for second time, stakes claim as CM of Mahagathbandhan

The process of some of its key constituents exiting the NDA began in March 2018. With a year to go for the Lok Sabha and Andhra Pradesh polls, the Telugu Desam Party quit the NDA. With 16 MPs, the TDP was the third biggest party within the NDA at the time. While parting ways with the BJP couldn't help the TDP in the polls, its exit was a precursor to more such departures. While the BJP remains a marginal presence in Andhra, its influence in neighbouring Telangana has increased.

During the 10 years of the Congress-led UPA rule at the Centre, the NDA went through a difficult phase. The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress and the Biju Janata Dal quit the alliance. Even in those trying years, the Akalis in Punjab, the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and the JD(U) kept faith with the BJP. The JD(U)'s earlier avatar, the Samta Party and BJP, first allied for the 1996 Lok Sabha polls. The alliance benefitted both, with their coalition running the government from 2005 to 2013 in Bihar before Nitish Kumar quit the NDA that year. In the 2014 Lok Sabha, Kumar-led JD(U) performed poorly. The JD(U) returned to the NDA fold in 2017.

The attrition in the NDA has accelerated after the BJP's 2019 Lok Sabha triumph. The BJP has celebrated the anniversaries of its 2014 victory and forming its first-ever majority government at the Centre since 2015. However, the BJP no longer marks the anniversary of the formal launch of the NDA on May 15, 1998.

Also Read | Chirag Paswan slams Nitish Kumar for insulting people's mandate twice, seeks fresh polls in Bihar

The NDA went into the 2019 Lok Sabha polls as a 21-member alliance. By November, BJP's ally of over three decades, the Shiv Sena, parted ways. It complained the BJP, after the Maharashtra Assembly polls, reneged on its promise of sharing the CM's post. The two had first allied with each other in 1989. The BJP remained Sena's junior partner in Maharashtra until 2014, when it contested the Assembly polls on its own to score twice the Sena's wins.

When the Centre pushed for the farm laws, the Shiromani Akali Dal, another of the BJP's oldest allies, quit the NDA in September 2020. It helped neither, as the AAP decimated them in Punjab in March 2022. The two could come together in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha.

The NDA has lost constituents earlier, some of which rejoined it later, like the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU). In Haryana, the BJP fell short of the majority mark and struck a post-poll alliance with the Jannayak Janata Party to form its government. Other parties to quit the NDA after 2019 are West Bengal's Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, Goa Forward Party (GFP) and Rajasthan-based Rashtriya Loktantrik Party.

Also Read | BJP weighs options as JD(U) walks out of coalition in Bihar

The question is can the BJP do without allies? The BJP's win in Assam in 2021 was not possible without the help of its partners  the Asom Gana Parishad and United People's Party Liberal (UPPL). In Puducherry polls the same year, the BJP could not have won six of the nine seats it contested without support from its senior partner in the union territory, the All India N.R. Congress.

In the 2017 Assembly polls in Manipur, the Congress party emerged as the single largest party with 28-seats in a 60-member Assembly. However, the BJP, with 21-seats, formed the government with the help of the Naga People's Front (NPF), National Peoples Party (NPP) and LJP. Five years hence, in 2022, the BJP dispended with its allies and contested all 60 seats, winning 32. The BJP's former allies, NPF and NPP, did reasonably, but the BJP had a majority of its own.

The Goa story is somewhat similar. In the 2017 polls, Congress was the single largest party with 17-seats in the 40-member Assembly. But the BJP, with 13-seats, formed the government with the help of the GFP, Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party and independents. In 2022, the BJP poached sitting legislators from the Congress, severed ties with its allies to contest all 40 seats, and formed the government.

The message from the BJP for its smaller allies is unmistakable. The BJP will tolerate them in its non-traditional areas only till such time that it takes roots organisationally. Interestingly, Banerjee's TMC and Patnaik's BJD are rare parties that have continued to prosper after severing ties with the BJP. Can Uddhav Thackeray's Sena and Nitish Kumar's JD(U) do the same?
Anger erupted at the last plenary meeting of Derry City and Strabane District Council before the summer break, following discussion on a proposal that Derry should bid to host Eurovision Song Contest 2023.

The motion was proposed by Cllr Derek Hussey (Ulster Unionist).

Speaking to Derry Now, Cllr Paul Gallagher (Independent) said it was outrageous Cllr Hussey's motion had been discussed, yet his motion on the application of a Public Interest Immunity Certificate (PIIC) to the Noah Donohoe case was refused.

Controversy has surrounded the case of Noah Donohoe (14) who was found dead in a storm drain in North Belfast in June 2020.

British Secretary of State Shaleish Vara recently signed off on a PIIC to conceal information surrounding Noah's death.

Cllr Gallagher said: I put forward the motion, 'Council writes to the British Secretary of State Shailesh Vara to cancel the Public Interest Immunity Certificate that was issued in the case of Noah Donohoe.' We need full transparency into the death of this 14 year old child and PIICs have been known in the past to hide truth and transparency.

The meeting opened with Mayor's Business and Cllr Hussey brought his motion for a paper to be brought forward to investigate the feasibility of Derry putting in a bid to stage next year's Eurovision Song Contest. He was obviously playing to the gallery in the sense of saying, 'Derry is in the UK'. The Mayor allowed the discussion, meanwhile everyone else was rolling their eyes. It was framed in terms of bringing forward a paper, so there was not any actual cost as such attached to it, and it was allowed.

According to Cllr Gallagher, council then moved on to discuss issues around the proposal at May's plenary to remove funding from the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP).

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He revealed, a Youth Alliance in Derry, had withdrawn engagement form the PSNI over issues of the PSNI members taking photographs of dead bodies.

Cllr Gallagher added: Cllr Gary Donnelly (Independent) subsequently mentioned the Noah Donohoe case. Noah's mother, Fiona, is originally from Strabane, which led me to mention the British Secretary of State's imposition of a PIIC on his case.

PIICs are known from previous experience to effectively cover up truth and transparency. We have a particular case in Castlederg, the Arlene Arkinson case, there was a PIIC issued around Robert Howard [her deceased suspected killer], which covered up a whole pile of truths and prevented transparency. Howard subsequently went on and further to take other lives.

I put my motion up on chat box, as we were on Zoom and the city solicitor intervened. The meeting went off air. When it came back the Mayor said that I couldn't introduce the motion as members would need time to research it and discuss it and to introduce it at short notice would be unfair.

I challenged that decision saying we had just discussed a meeting on the possibility of Derry hosting the Eurovision Song Contest, a motion which no-one had set eyes on until it was proposed, and would cost millions of pounds, but the Mayor ruled it out and a few people tried to challenge it.

Cllr Gallagher subsequently proposed a suspension of standing orders to enable him to bring his motion on the Noah Donohoe PIIC.

Noah's Donohoe's mum Fiona calling for support on Saturday in Belfast.

The vote to suspend standing orders was carried, however the 80% necessary margin was not achieved and Cllr Gallagher's motion fell.

Cllr Gallagher said: The long and short of it is council allowed a hair-brained motion on the floor but it can't allow debate around a serious issue of a young boy mysteriously losing his life, a young boy with strong connections to the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.

People are outraged. They cannot believe Council would give time to such a ridiculous subject as hosting the Eurovision Song Concert 2023, yet another councillor was given no time to discuss a young person who died mysteriously and a PIIC is being used to cover up the facts surrounding it.
A workaround is being sought to ensure that people in Northern Ireland do not miss out on a 400 payment in the autumn to help with energy costs because there is no functioning government, a Stormont minister has said.

Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey is set to have discussions with Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi on Wednesday over how the scheme can be extended to Northern Ireland.

However, the minister said the fastest way to deliver the money would be for the Stormont political powersharing institutions to be restored as she warned that families faced a bleak winter with the

cost-of-living crisis.

Listening to workers and families across society, we need to act now to support them through the rising cost-of-living. I am determined to form an Executive, and to work together with all parties to put money into peoples pockets. pic.twitter.com/mtdPMAcj1u  Michelle ONeill (@moneillsf) August 8, 2022

Last month the Westminster Government revealed details of the scheme in which households in Great Britain will get more than 60 off their energy bills each month throughout winter as part of its cost-of-living support measures.

The money, which is part of a package announced in May this year, will come in six instalments over six months to some 29 million households.

Households will see 66 taken off their energy bills in October and November, and 67 between December and March, the Government said.

However, there has been uncertainty on how Northern Ireland households will receive the payment to help with energy costs.

The region is currently without a functioning Executive or assembly as part of the DUPs protest against the post-Brexit Northern Ireland Protocol.

Ms Hargey said: I am meeting the British chancellor tomorrow afternoon and my message is that we need to find a way to get that money.

I know (Stormont Finance Minister) Conor Murphy has been engaging with Treasury to try and look at a solution.

The quickest solution here is to have a functioning government. We know the Economy Department can run out a scheme quickly, they have all of the details and mechanisms to do that.

In the absence, we are having to find workarounds and those workarounds take some time to try and work through.

What happens in the middle is that people are struggling in the here and now.

Ms Hargey added: These payments should have hit peoples bank accounts the way the other fuel support payments have begun to and we need to do all that we can, working with the Treasury, working with the British Government, to do that in the absence of others who are unwilling to form a government.

This one-off payment of 400 is not going to be enough.

It will assist, but this winter is going to be bleak for many families and low income workers and that is why we need a functioning Executive.

This has taken time to try and get a workaround and people are struggling here and now.

If we had a functioning Executive we could give certainty to those families and we could get the money out into their pockets as soon as possible, rather than trying to find workarounds which dont give any certainty, which create instability and worries.

The minister said pressures were already beginning to build on families affected by soaring costs.

She added: People are really struggling and that struggle is going to continue to build and build over the winter months.

We are already seeing it with school uniform pressures.

People want leadership, they want their elected representatives to work on their behalf, so we need a functioning Executive.

We need to form a government, we have attempted this three times and the DUP has not taken their responsibilities seriously and I would call on them to re-establish the institutions so we can put measures in place in advance of the autumn and winter months to help families who are struggling.

We are looking at supports we can roll out but we need an Executive to release the budget.

We are all working under budgetary pressures.

There is this myth out there that government is continuing to function and all these budgets are rolling over.

That is not the case  we are going to hit crisis point and we are going to hit it at the worst time coming into the winter months.
Four water companies have announced hosepipe bans in the UK, as another heatwave is set to scorch the country this week.

Thames Water is the latest to announce that it expects to implement a temporary usage ban (TUB) in the coming weeks due to the dry weather.

Here are each water companys current guidelines concerning hosepipe bans and water usage across the UK, alongside water leakage statistics for those based in England and Wales:

 Anglian Water

Area: East of England and Hartlepool

Customers: Six million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 86 litres

A spokesperson said: We have no hosepipe bans currently in place across our region, and were working hard to keep it that way. But were watching river levels very closely right now, as things can change quickly and the forecast for this month remains dry and warm.



 Welsh Water (Dwr Cymru)

 Temperatures are set to increase again this week so while we are all looking forward to enjoying the sun, why not think about the steps you can take to reduce the amount of water thats wasted? How about taking a shower instead of a bath?  https://t.co/1bJ532D053 pic.twitter.com/HQqQETUKG6  Welsh Water (@DwrCymru) August 9, 2022

Area: most of Wales and parts of Western England on the border with Wales

Customers: Three million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 116 litres

The company introduced a hosepipe ban for customers in the region of Pembrokeshire and a small part of Carmarthenshire on Tuesday.

The temporary use ban will be in place until we have had enough rain to replenish our water resources.

 Hafren Dyfrdwy

Area: north-east and mid-Wales

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 134 litres

The water provider does not currently have any restrictions in place, but has not ruled out implementing joint policies along with the Welsh government should the situation with the dry weather worsen.

A spokesperson said: Whilst we dont have any concerns about raw water position for Hafren Dyfrdwy, we continue to monitor the situation and are a part of the Welsh Governments Taskforce, working closely with them to create joint policies and processes in the event of drought action.

 Northumbrian Water

Customers: 2.7 million

Area: Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, Durham and parts of North Yorkshire

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 110 litres

The website says that there are no plans in place to implement any drought measures such as hosepipe bans, but adds that it is good practice to use water wisely.

 Severn Trent Water

How much water do you reckon a bucket saves compared to a jet washer? A whopping 10x as much!!  Why not dust the cobwebs off the bucket & sponge and use them instead! Small changes can help save our water. For more water saving tips visit our website https://t.co/nU9IuqIbyZ pic.twitter.com/xhlwpAPSHs  Severn Trent (@stwater) August 6, 2022

Area: From the Bristol Channel to the Humber and from mid-Wales to the East Midlands

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 112 litres

The region covered by Severn Trent Water currently has no hosepipe bans in place.

However, the company said it will continue to monitor reservoir levels and demand for water closely, as it does every year, for any changes.

 South West Water

Area: Devon, Cornwall, parts of Dorset and Somerset

Customers: 1.7 million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 118 litres

South West water customers are at risk of formal restrictions being introduced over the coming weeks.

The company announced on August 3 that it may have to make the difficult decision to introduce restrictions, if the exceptional levels of demand and sustained dry weather continues.

 Southern Water

Area: The south-west of England, including Dorset, Somerset, Bristol, most of Wiltshire and parts of Gloucestershire and Hampshire

Customers: 2.5 million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 87 litres

A hosepipe ban has been in place for customers in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight since August 5.

The company has applied for a Drought Permit on the River Test from the Environment Agency to allow them to continue to take water if levels continue to drop.

 Thames Water

The average shower uses 10 litres per minute If a family of 4 reduce their shower by just 1 minute, they could save: 45 on metered water bills Up to 52 on energy bills As much as 11,648 litres of water a year Try our water saving calculator: https://t.co/WzbVrZCXeF pic.twitter.com/sch2R5ziX8  Thames Water  (@thameswater) July 28, 2022

Area: London and the Thames Valley

Customers: 15 million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 161 litres

Thames Water has said that they are planning to issue a hosepipe ban in the coming weeks given the long term forecast of hot and dry weather for the region.

They added: The timing is not confirmed due to a number of operational and legal procedural requirements but we will be updating our customers, partners, regulators and stakeholders at the earliest time to ensure a coordinated approach.

In the meantime we continue to urge our customers to only use what they need for their essential use.

 United Utilities Water

Area: The North West in a region from Crewe to Carlisle

Customers: More than three million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 130 litres

A company spokesperson told PA news agency that they were not considering any restrictions on use of water at present, but did encourage customers to use water wisely.

 Wessex Water

Area: the South West including Dorset, Somerset, Bristol, and parts of Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Hampshire

Customers: 2.8 million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 111 litres

No hosepipe bans are planned by Wessex Water, but the company does warn that reservoir and groundwater levels are low, and urges customers to use water responsibly.

 Yorkshire Water

87% of people polled last week turn the tap off when they brush their teeth, do you?  Leaving your tap running for 2 minutes uses 12 litres of water! So, an udder-ly easy way to make the most of it is to turn the tap off while youre giving your teeth a good scrub.  pic.twitter.com/bpRpZbTkDB  Yorkshire Water  (@YorkshireWater) August 9, 2022

Area: West Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, the East Riding of Yorkshire, part of North Lincolnshire, most of North Yorkshire and part of Derbyshire

Customers: More than five million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 130 litres

A spokesperson said: We havent applied for any drought orders or implemented Temporary Usage Bans (TUBs)  they do both form part of our drought plan and so they are tools that we could call on if/when we need to.

 Affinity Water

Area: Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Surrey and other parts of the South East

Customers: 3.83 million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 120 litres

Parts of the South East covered by Affinity Water are unlikely to see any hosepipe ban this year.

The companys website says: At current levels, its unlikely well need to introduce restrictions this year.

 Bristol Water

Area: Bristol city, north east Somerset and south Gloucestershire

Customers: More than 500,000

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 69 litres

At the end of July, the company said: We will continue to monitor the situation, but with our current water resource outlook, we do not foresee any issues in supply to customers.

 Portsmouth Water

and still NO hosepipe ban in the PW area! Why? Southern supply from live watercourses, PW from the aquifers under the South Downs. Our supply IS affected, but not as immediately or as badly affected as SW. All we ask is that you use your water thoughtfully and with care!  Portsmouth Water (@PortsmouthWater) August 8, 2022

Area: Portsmouth and the surrounding area

Customers: 698,000

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 79 litres

Despite Southern Water issuing a temporary usage ban for nearby Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth Water reassured customers on Twitter on Tuesday that there is no hosepipe ban in the Portsmouth Water area of supply.

They added: But please, please, please use water responsibly! Were all in this together.

 South East Water

Area: the south-east of England, including Eastbourne, Maidenhead and North Kent

Customers: 2.2 million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 99 litres

A hosepipe ban will come into force on Friday for customers in Kent and Sussex.

The company announced: We have been left with no choice but to restrict the use of hosepipes and sprinklers from 00.01 on Friday August 12 within our Kent and Sussex supply area until further notice.

 South Staffs Water

Area: West Midlands, South Staffordshire, South Derbyshire, North Warwickshire and North Worcestershire

Customers: 1.3 million

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 111 litres

Head of water strategy and environment Natalie Akroyd said: With the recent hot weather and less-than-average rainfall for this time of year, we continue to monitor our water resources and encourage our customers to use water wisely

We currently dont have any plans in place to introduce hosepipe bans.

 SES Water

Gardening tip! By watering your plants at cooler times of the day your plants will retain more moisture so won't need watering as much. Discover more tips to save water in the garden: https://t.co/htxH0AnjOh#WatersWorthSaving #WWS22 pic.twitter.com/ILvx66ntlo  SESWater (@SESWater) July 28, 2022

Area: parts of Surrey, Kent and south London

Customers: 745,000

Leakage per property per day in 2020-2021: 82 litres

SES Water said: While some of the neighbouring water companies have announced hose pipe bans, we are not yet at that stage.

We will of course keep the need for any restrictions under close review for the rest of the summer period, however this will depend on the rate of decline of our groundwater and reservoir sources, and the level of customer demand.

 Scottish Water

A Scottish Water spokesperson told PA that there were no plans for water usage restrictions in Scotland.

They added: We are monitoring and managing our water resources and, in some instances, reservoirs are being topped up from alternative water sources to ensure supply resilience for customers.

 Northern Ireland Water

A spokesperson for Northern Ireland Water said: The amount of water in our impounding reservoirs is kept under continuous review and we are content with our current level of storage. However, it is imperative that customers continue to use water wisely, especially given the forecast for the next number of days.

At this point in time, NI Water is not introducing a hosepipe ban. The situation is however being closely monitored and if storage reduces significantly or demand became excessive, NI Water would have to consider the possibility of putting in place measures in order to protect water supplies.

Water leakage information was compiled by the information dashboard Discover Water, and is based on information agreed by water companies, the water regulators, the UK and Welsh Governments and the Consumer Council for Water.
Google was down for a while on August 8, 2022, and even if its for a while when it is services like Google Search, Gmail, YouTube, Maps, Photos, etc then thats a ginormous problem. Just the main Google Search website gets around 80 billion visits a month or about a million searches per minute on average. Thats the scale that we are talking about here. So, you see how many people around the world would be affected by a Google outage. However, this isnt the first time something like this has happened. We have kept note of the various times Google has gone Aw, snap, thats an error on us. Lets begin with the latest one.

1. Google down on August 8, 2022

User reports indicate Google is having problems since 9:12 PM EDT. https://t.co/MK35emuk7T RT if you're also having problems #Googledown  Downdetector (@downdetector) August 9, 2022

Google was reportedly out of order since 6:37 am IST and by around 7:07 am, there were over 41,000 complaints. Some software update was the cause for this. Users were getting Error 500 or 502.

Google expressed regret for the same by saying, We apologize for the inconvenience. We worked to quickly address the issue and our services are now back online.

2. Google down on December 2020

The case is internally called Google Cloud Infrastructure Components incident 20013. It was caused by a limited quota in Google's automated storage management system that blocked services that involved user login. It stayed an issue for ~45 minutes and services like Google Cloud Platform, Gmail, Calendar, Meet, Docs, and Drive were not allegedly functioning.

A few months back in the month of August 2020 too, a massive outage happened and Gmail was mainly hit.

3. YouTube was down in August 2020 and November 2020

In the 2020 incident, Videos were browsable but not playable. This impacted not just the regular YouTube on all platforms but also YouTube TV and YouTube Music.

However, in 2018, users were getting just a blank page when they tried watching YouTube on the web. Meanwhile, on the app, some users were getting Error 503.

We're back! Thanks for all of your patience. If you continue to experience issues, please let us know. https://t.co/NVU5GP7Sy6  TeamYouTube (@TeamYouTube) October 17, 2018

We will Google, we will. Like always, you will find all netizens comments and reactions on Twitter. As for you readers, check Downdetector and Google Worspace Status Dashboard to know whether a Google service is down or not. Let's hope for the latter.
This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices.
The Indian government is reportedly planning to put curbs on China-based smartphone players from selling low-end smartphones (less that Rs 12,000) to give a much-needed boost to homegrown brands like Micromax, Lava, Karbonn and others.



According to a Bloomberg report citing sources that came out on Monday, the country "seeks to restrict Chinese smartphone makers from selling devices cheaper than Rs 12,000 ($150) to kick-start its faltering domestic industry".



The move, said the report citing people close to the matter, may push Chinese smartphone makers "out of the lower segment of the world's second-biggest mobile market".



The government's intentions, if true, will give a body blow to companies like Xiaomi and Realme that have captured about 50 per cent market share in India in the sub-$150 (Rs 12,000 and below) segment, according to Counterpoint Research.



"Overall, sub-$150 smartphones contributed to 31 per cent of the total smartphone volumes in India in the June quarter this year, compared to 49 per cent in the same quarter in 2018," Research Director Tarun Pathak told IANS.



"Chinese brands dominate 75-80 per cent of these volumes as Jio PhoneNext has ramped up in the last few quarters. This segment is currently dominated by realme and Xiaomi with 50 per cent share," Pathak added.



Shenzhen-based Transsion Holdings, which has brands like Tecno, Infinix and Itel in its kitty, is also a formidable player in the low-end and affordable segment in the country.



Transsion Group brands (itel, Infinix and Tecno) captured a 12 per cent share in India's handset market in Q2.



While itel led the sub-Rs 6,000 smartphone segment with a massive 77 per cent share, Tecno captured the second spot in the sub-Rs 8,000 smartphone segment in the country, according to Counterpoint Research.



India has already taken a super tough stand against Chinese manufacturers, and recent raids on Chinese smartphone companies like OPPO, Vivo and Xiaomi prove this.



The Indian government is looking into cases of alleged tax evasion by three Chinese mobile companies -- OPPO, Vivo India and Xiaomi.



OPPO India, Xiaomi India and Vivo India were served notices by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) for duty evasion, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman informed the Rajya Sabha last week.



A show-cause notice demanding Rs 4,403.88 crore has been served to OPPO Mobiles India Ltd based on an investigation conducted by the DRI, while five cases of Customs duty evasion have been registered against Xiaomi Technology India, Sitharaman said in a written reply.



The DRI detected customs duty evasion of around Rs 2,217 crore by Vivo Mobile India Private Ltd.



A show-cause notice has been issued to Vivo India demanding customs duty amounting to Rs 2,217 crore, under the provisions of the Customs Act.



Since April 2020, out of 382 foreign direct investment (FDI) proposals the central government received from Chinese firms, India approved only 80 as on June 29.

(Except for the headline, the rest of this IANS article is un-edited)

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in.
According to previously leaked renderings, the Galaxy Fold 4 and Galaxy Flip 4 seem to have similar looks to the Fold 3 and Flip 3 from last year.

Soon, Samsung's Z-series folding phones will be available in a new batch. More than two weeks from today, on August 10, Samsung will unveil the new Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4. However, as with most Samsung flagships, leaked renderings of the phone have appeared on the internet.

Twitter tipster Evan Blass (@evleaks) has a good track record regarding leaked renderings, and 91Mobiles is the source of the latest leaks. Samsung has released photographs of the Galaxy Fold 4 and the Galaxy Flip 4 in both their open and closed versions, showing off the many colour choices available this year.

There seem to be three colour options for this year's Z Fold 4  black, beige, and grey. Despite this, the Flip 4 is available in four colours: black/gold/blue/purple. Both phones' designs don't seem to have changed much from last year. In particular, the Z Flip resembles the Flip 3 from the previous year.

Even though leaked images of the Fold 4 show it with black backgrounds, we don't know whether it will include an under-display front camera like the Fold 3. So far, so good, but we'll have to wait and see how the front camera is used this year. The Fold 4 hasn't been officially confirmed to support the S-Pen yet this year, but it seems plausible considering that Samsung has formally discontinued the Note series.

A more expansive outside display and improved in-display crease are also promised from Samsung this year. There is still a lot we don't know about this matter. The Fold 4 and Flip 4 are powered by Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipsets now.

We have less than two days before Samsung's newest devices are officially unveiled, but the excitement has worn off. As good as Samsung's following foldable smartwatches and earbuds may seem on paper, it's hard to fathom being startled at Galaxy Unpacked, given what we've seen thus far. As long as the leaks continue, we won't be through with them. You don't have to wait until Wednesday to find out whether Samsung's under-display camera on the Z Fold 4 has improved this year.
NASA JPL Project Manager Art Thompson said that two small pieces of debris were visible in those pictures. It looked like a small object on the coring bit.

The object looked like a loose thread from a shirt or a hair strand. The object was spotted easily on August 4 in the image. The descent and landing (EDL) system that delivered the rover to Mars in 2021 has been under investigation by Percys team to find out where the object came from and the possible reasons for its existence.

Perseverance has spotted a few bits of enigmatic debris, which also included a tangle that looked like noodles. Although, it was possible that a bit of netting from the EDL had fallen on the landscape from where the landing system crashed down 1.24 miles.

There was a concern expressed by the Perseverance team about the possible contamination of the sample tubes while investigating the debris. Thompson said they are researching more about the nature of the debris this week and NASA seeks more information regarding the same. The team is researching the area or the ground from where it was collected as well as taking more pictures from different angles to get more insights.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in
NEWSLINE Release Number: 2022-64 Date: August 9, 2022

DWC Announces Return to In-Person Walk-Throughs

The Division of Workers Compensation (DWC) today announced that all DWC district offices except Eureka will accept in-person walk-through documents beginning September 6, 2022, pursuant to California Code of Regulations, title 8, section 10789. Eureka is permanently a virtual office and walk-through documents should be brought to the DWC Santa Rosa district office.

In addition, effective September 6, 2022, DWC will no longer accept virtual walk-throughs in the Lifesize platform. Virtual walk-throughs were put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. Pursuant to section 10789 of the regulations, DWC will now accept all walk-through documents in-person. Walk-throughs are available Monday through Friday, except on holidays when the Divisions offices are closed.

Parties are reminded to follow all provisions of section 10789 when presenting a District Office with a walk-through request.

DWC will still accept by mail or e-filing any documents that are to be acted upon by a judge, including those that may otherwise be submitted by walk-through.

The decision to return to in-person walk-throughs is in line with Governor Gavin Newsoms SMARTER Plan for the next phase of pandemic response.

DWC appreciates the communitys patience during this transition. If there are questions regarding this procedure, parties may contact the DWC call center at (909) 383-4522.
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By GILLIAN FLACCUS, CLAUDIA LAUER, and STEFANIE DAZIO

Associated Press

PORTLAND  Five years after Brian Spaulding's parents found him fatally shot in the home he shared with roommates, his slaying remains a mystery that seems increasingly unlikely to be solved as Portland, Oregon, police confront a spike in killings and more than 100 officer vacancies.

The detective assigned to investigate the death of Spaulding  a chiropractic assistant who didn't do drugs, wasn't in a gang and lived close to the house where he was born  left in 2020 in a wave of retirements and the detective assigned to it now is swamped with fresh cases after Portland's homicide rate surged 207% since 2019.





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The agency says it will inspect each plane before it is approved for delivery.



WASHINGTON (AP)  Federal regulators said Monday they are satisfied with changes Boeing has made in the production of its 787 Dreamliner passenger jet, clearing the way for the company to resume deliveries to airline customers in the coming days.

The Federal Aviation Administration announcement confirmed reports late last month and came days after the agency's acting chief met with safety inspectors who oversee Boeing.





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BERKELEY, Calif. (AP)  Construction of student housing at the historic People's Park in Berkeley, California, is on hold after an appellate court ordered an injunction late Thursday, a day after protesters forced the University of California, Berkeley to halt work on the controversial project.

The temporary injunction precludes the university from demolishing and cutting down trees, but allows security fencing around the park pending a fast-tracked court resolution.





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Rendering by MG2 [enlarge] Looking southeast, Party City will remain, while everything extending left (east) to Buffalo Wild Wings will be demolished.





Five years ago, in an over $36 million deal, Brixton Capital of California acquired Everett Mall, at 1402 S.E. Everett Mall Way. No plans were announced at the time, well before the pandemic, as online commerce continued to erode the value of brick-and-mortar retail. That tendency is today even more pronounced.





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Photo by Brian Miller [enlarge] Seller Aimco has exited our market, while buyer Pacific Urban continues to invest.





The half-block 2900 on First apartments, at 2900 First Ave. in Belltown, sold last week for nearly $68.9 million, according to King County records. The seller was an LLC associated with the Denver-based REIT Aimco, which acquired the property in 2008 for about $36.4 million.





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SEATTLE  The Andante, at 3031 N.E. 137th St., sold last week for just under $18 million, according to King County records.

The seller was Chameleon Partners LLC, which acquired the property in 2016 for about $11.2 million.





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A 39 year old farmer has had a drink driving prosecution dismissed at Dundalk district court, after it emerged during a contested hearing that the Garda who had administered the breath test was not available to give evidence.

The investigating Garda told the court how he was on mobile patrol , when he came upon a Toyota HiLux which was swerving from left to right in front of him, at Silver Hill, Bohernamoe, Ardee on August 7th last.

He said the brake lights were also activated a number of times and when he stopped the vehicle, Shane Carroll with an address at Funshog, Collon got out of the driver's side.

There was a smell of alcohol, his speech was slurred, his eyes bloodshot and he was unsteady on his feet and Mr. Carroll was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and subsequently failed a drunk driving breath test at Dundalk Garda Station.

The Garda confirmed to the Defence barrister that his client had been stopped on an extremely rural road, where the surface was uneven.

The barrister claimed that what was perceived as swerving was the defendant trying to avoid potholes and explained that Mr. Carroll is a farmer and was on his way to deliver a calf.

The Defence barrister argued that there was an unjust delay in processing his client of one hour and 50, but Inspector Damien Martin argued the State gives gardai three hours from the point of arrest and the whole process was concluded within the three hours.

However Judge Eirinn McKiernan dismissed the case after the court was told the garda who administered the breath test was not available to attend court to give evidence.
The Thomas DArcy McGee Annual Summer School is back onsite in the idyllic setting of Carlingford Heritage centre. East meets West every summer at the Summer School where issues of contemporary politics are debated in the historic context of McGee and his pioneering views on multiculturalism, ethnicity and accommodation.

The Summer School has established itself as a popular forum for politicians, government ministers, ambassadors, academics, historians and community activists to exchange views and seek direction.

This year, as war rages in Eastern Europe, the pressing issues of ethnicity, conflict and resolution still dominate global discourse. The framework for governance and the lasting peace established under the Good Friday Agreement have never been more important as Brexit challenges the European project.

The 2022 Summer School looks through the perspective of DArcy McGee to understand better the significance of these current events as we bring together great minds and thinkers and activists from across Ireland, Europe and Canada to promoting dialogue and reconciliation.

Through a range of keynote and panel sessions, we are delighted to welcome back to Carlingford old favourites and present new voices drawn from the academic, diplomatic, political and social fields who will share thoughts and perspectives on how past lessons can inform the creation of peaceful, lasting and just solutions to contemporary issues.

A range of networking opportunities throughout the conference allow participants to enjoy the charms of this historic town, establish new friendships and copper fasten old ones. The schedule is as follows:

Programme Day 1  August 31st 1.30pm

Opening address  Dr. Michael Mulvey

Speakers:

1.50pm  2.30pm Professor David Wilson, University of Toronto (online)

2.30pm  3.15pm Bobby McDonagh, Former Irish Ambassador to the European Union and theUnited Kingdom. The European Union: Identity, Challenges and Truth

3.15pm  3.30pm HE Larysa Gerasko, Ukrainian Ambassador to Ireland

3.30pm  4pm Tea/Coffee

4pm  4.50pm Panel: Reflections upon 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement and European Dimension Moderated by Tommy Sands  The Songman Jackie McDonald  Spokesperson  South Belfast Ulster Political Research Group Sean Murray  Special Adviser Sinn Fein and Community Activist

4.50pm  5.30pm General (Retired) John De Chastelain (online)  Reflections

Evening

6pm  7.15pm Reception at the station House and Irish Canadian International Person of the Year Award Presentation Carlingford Pipe Band Altnaveigh Memorial Pipe Band

9pm Songs and Stories with Len Graham and Jack Lynch

Day 2  September 1st 10am

10.15 am Keynote Speaker: Professor Brigid Laffan, Emeritus Professor, Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced studies

11.00 am Panel: Unity in Diversity  the Relevance of Europe Chair  Joan Martin, CEO Louth County Council



Panel Members:
All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC) is calling on people in Louth to become better informed about palliative care and its benefits as part of Palliative Care Week.

Now in its ninth year, Palliative Care Week takes place from 11 to 17 September.

Palliative Care Week 2022 aims to raise awareness across the island of Ireland about the difference palliative care can make to peoples quality of life.

This years theme is Palliative Care: Living as well as possible.

It echoes AIIHPCs commitment to raising awareness of the positive impact that palliative care has on the lives of people with life-limiting illnesses and their families; allowing them to live their lives as fully as they can.

Karen Charnley, AIIHPC Director, said: We chose this years theme as Living as well as possible as we wanted to show how palliative care enables people to have a good quality of life.

"It can achieve this by putting the individual at the centre of care, supporting their physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs.

It can also benefit people at all stages of illness and people of all ages, allowing the person to continue to have the independence to do some of the things that they enjoy, such as hobbies and spending time with family.

Throughout most peoples lives they will know someone who needs palliative care  often a family member.

"So, this year for Palliative Care Week we want to reach as many people as possible in Louth and help them to be better informed about all aspects of palliative care and its benefits.

It is important that people talk to their health or social care professional and communicate their concerns and ask questions about palliative care and how it could help them or someone important to them, Ms Charnley said.

To find out more about Palliative Care Week visit www.thepalliativehub.com /public-awareness
Louth was among the counties to record the highest number of deaths due to Covid-19, according to data released last week by the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

211 deaths due to Covid-19 occurred in Louth between March 2020 and February 2022, according to the figures released by the CSO. Of the 211 deaths, 82 were aged 85 years and older; 69 were aged between 75 and 84 years; 31 aged between 65 and 74 years and 17 between 55 and 64 years.

Nine people were aged between 45 and 64 years, a further two people were aged between 25 and 34 years, while the youngest person in Louth whose death occurred due to Covid-19, was aged between 15 and 24 years old.

The only counties which saw a higher number of deaths due to Covid-19 than Louth were Dublin (Dublin City Council  951; South Dublin County Council  390; Fingal County Council  278; Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council  264); Cork (Cork County Council  284; Cork City Council  228); Kildare (279); and Limerick City and County Council (263).

In deaths between March 2020 and February 2022, COVID-19 was identified as the underlying cause of death in 5,384 cases in the State.

Included in the data released by the CSO, was the place of occurrence of Covid-19 deaths. While it does not provide details on a county basis, it does show that of the 5,384 deaths that occurred in the State, 1,564 occurred in nursing homes. It is known that in Louth, of the 211 deaths, 23 occurred at the Dealgan House Nursing Home during the first wave of Covid-19 in April and May 2020. Families of the bereaved at Dealgan House continue to push for a public inquiry into the deaths of their loved ones.

The breakdown of the other deaths that occurred in the State are as follows: 3,176 were in general and orthopaedic hospitals; occurred in a domiciliary setting, 183 in community hospitals; 106 in private hospitals; 57 in hospices; 12 in psychiatric hospitals; one in an oncology hospital; and 28 elsewhere.

The analysis by the CSO focuses on deaths where COVID-19 was found to have been the underlying cause of death (UCOD). A death certificate may list multiple causes of death, based on which the UCOD is identified by applying specific guidelines from the World Health Organization A death due to COVID-19 differs from a death with COVID-19 in that COVID-19 is identified as the underlying cause of death in the former but not in the latter.
The FBI has searched Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence, sources have said.

Disclosing the search in a lengthy statement, the former US president said that agents opened up a safe at his home and described their work as an unannounced raid that he likened to prosecutorial misconduct.

The search intensifies the months-long probe into how classified documents ended up in more than a dozen boxes located at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year.

A separate grand jury investigation is also taking place into efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and adds to the potential legal peril for Mr Trump as he lays the groundwork for another run.

Mr Trump and his allies sought to cast the search as a weaponisation of the criminal justice system and a Democratic-driven effort to keep him from winning another term in 2024  even though the Biden White House said it had no prior knowledge of it.



Donald Trump has indicated he wants to make another run for the White House

The current FBI director, Christopher Wray, was also appointed by Mr Trump five years ago and served as a high-ranking official in a Republican-led Justice Department.

These are dark times for our nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, Mr Trump wrote.

Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before.

After working and co-operating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Mr Trump said.



Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate has been searched by federal agents, the ex-president said

Justice Department spokeswoman Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search, including about whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorised it.

Mr Trump did not elaborate on the basis for the search but the Justice Department has been investigating the potential mishandling of classified information after the National Archives and Records Administration said it had retrieved from Mar-a-Lago 15 boxes of records containing classified information earlier this year.

The National Archives said Mr Trump should have turned over that material upon leaving office and it asked the Justice Department to investigate.

There are multiple federal laws governing the handling of classified records and sensitive government documents, including statutes that make it a crime to remove such material and retain it at an unauthorised location.



Then-President Donald Trump listens during a video teleconference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in December 2019

Though a search warrant does not suggest that criminal charges are near or even expected, federal officials looking to obtain one must first demonstrate to a judge that they have probable cause that a crime occurred.

Two people familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the search happened earlier on Monday and was related to the records probe. Agents were also looking to see if Mr Trump had additional presidential records or any classified documents at the estate.

Mr Trump has previously maintained that presidential records were turned over in an ordinary and routine process.

His son Eric said on Fox News on Monday night that he had spent the day with his father and that the search happened because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession.



Police direct traffic outside an entrance to former president Mr Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate

Asked how the documents ended up at Mar-a-Lago, Eric Trump said the boxes were among items that got moved out of the White House during six hours on Inauguration Day, as the Bidens prepared to move into the building.

My father always kept press clippings, Eric Trump said. He had boxes, when he moved out of the White House.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican who is considered a potential 2024 presidential candidate, said in a statement on Twitter that it was an escalation in the weaponisation of US government agencies.

Kevin McCarthy, the House Minority Leader, said in a tweet that the Justice Department has reached an intolerable state of weaponised politicization and said that if Republicans win control of the US House, they will investigate the department.
As scorching summer temperatures continue across Ireland and the UK, water groups including Irish Water are urging people to conserve water.

Learning how to save water will not only protect vital reservoir resources, it can also help save money on household bills.

Here are seven clever ways to cut back on water usage around the house

1. Do less laundry

Instead of chucking clothes into the laundry basket after one wear, consider whether they really need washing. Could airing an item in a breezy spot, a quick press with the iron or a spritz of deodorising spray be enough to refresh it?

When you are washing clothes, be sure to wait until you have enough laundry for a full load  so you arent constantly running the machine and using up more water.

2. Use your dishwasher efficiently

We all know that having a shower generally uses less water than a bath, but did you know that using your dishwasher could actually be more water efficient than washing and rinsing lots of items in the sink?

As with the washing machine, the key is to make sure your dishwasher is full before running it.

3. Try a low-flow showerhead

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Methven UK (@methven_uk)

Combine shorter shower times with a more efficient appliance for maximum water saving.

Low-flow showerheads have become readily available in recent years, with product innovations meaning their performance can match, or out-do, traditional showerheads, says Yiota Toumba, senior designer at Ideal Standard UK.

She claims a low-flow showerhead can help you reduce water consumption by half  from 60 litres to just 30 litres per five minute shower, thats up to 10,950 litres per person a year.

4. Reuse cooking water on house plants

You can use the cooking water left over from boiling vegetables, grains, and eggs to give your houseplants a nourishing feed, says Hayley Baddiley, global marketing director at Denby Pottery  just make sure to wait until the water has cooled first.

Not only is it more sustainable, But doing so allows you to make the most of the vitamins the water has absorbed, she says.

5. Better beauty habits

When it comes to beauty routines, you can save water by drenching a flannel and using it to remove cleanser and make-up residue, instead of running the tap to rinse your face  even skincare experts like Caroline Hirons are flannel fans.

Dry shampoo is a hair-refreshing hero, and means you can have super-speedy showers instead of spending time lathering and rinsing.

6. Flush efficiently

View this post on Instagram A post shared by VictoriaPlum.com (@victoriaplumuk)

One area often overlooked when it comes to saving water in the home is your toilets flush system, says Toumba.

Most modern toilets are fitted with a dual flush system, which many of us arent even aware of, and using the half flush can result in massive water savings.

Plus, theres no harm in following the old eco-friendly adage: If its yellow, let it mellow, if its brown, flush it down.
The looming global food crisis is partly caused by US and EU sanctions that weaken the west, which gives Russia an unforeseen advantage.

Russian food and fertilizer sanction have boomeranged and brought about food insecurity because Washington never considered the consequences. Everyone is affected, from rich to third world countries, but who gets the most mileage is a matter of observation.

Russian Sanctions Affected Global Food Supply

Russian Minister of Agriculture Dmitry Patrushev spoke last Friday about how the food emergency was unfolding, saying that it's a blunder that threatens the world because of hegemonic western concerns, reported Sputnik News.

He added the progress of the Russian harvest, which has 27% of the field cultivated, about 55 million tons, is a good sign but ominous.

It is low compared to last year's harvest due to a cold spring, bad weather, and getting the parts to keep foreign-made agricultural equipment running. Due to this, it may be challenging to harvest 130 million tons of grain as expected. There won't be any complications because of fully caters to the home market.

The minister cautioned that if the anticipated volumes are not met, it will lower the 50 million tons export goal, which could hurt the global grain market.

Sanctions on Russian Economy Lead To Food Crisis

The Biden administration thought that the nations would join sanctions in the global south, which ended in utter rebellion when they sided with Vladimir Putin and refused to accept sanctions, thus, it weakened the west.

Read Also: Volodymyr Zelensky Net Worth 2022: How Wealthy Is the Ukraine President?

Washington and its Western allies thought they could stifle support for condemning Moscow, but they were completely rejected and caused a looming global food crisis.

The United States and its key allies increased sanctions against Russia. However, no country in Latin America, the Middle East, or East Asia abandoned a steadfast Vladimir Putin in the face of a White House.

The US and its allies underestimate Moscow's ability to achieve stable food security with grains and fertilizers that the West does not have. American and European leaders did not consider it when issuing successful sanctions, and now, Moscow can sanction them in their self-inflicted weak state.

Global South Affected Despite Not Joining Sanctions

Western sanctions drove the Global South to Moscow's corners with secondary restrictions. The African Union chief and Senegalese President, Macky Sall, told Vladimir Putin in June how the west has made African nations suffer for its wayward US and EU sanctions. With no grain or fertilizers to supply them, with a hunger problem caused by a reckless west

Despite worries about global food security stemming from the COVID crisis in 2020 and 2021, supply networks disrupted and exacerbated economic hardship in a large portion of the developing world.

In February and March 2022, the US and its allies swiftly implemented sanctions on Russia and its partner, Belarus, regarding agricultural and fertilizer.

The director of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization's Russian liaison office, Oleg Kobiakov, recently disclosed that his agency anticipates that 828 million people will be hungry by the end of 2021, a significant increase of about 150 million people from the year previous to COVID 2019.

Kobiakov underlined the role of the international fund proposed by the FAO to encourage the export of food, fertilizers, and energy to help developing countries, notably in Africa, amid the escalation of the Ukrainian crisis and international sanctions.

This global food crisis caused by the US and EU sanctions that weakened the west only drove many countries to Russia's side.

Related Article: Most Americans Don't Believe Russia as a Threat as Pushed by the Biden Administration, Latest Poll Reveals

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams slammed Texas Governor Greg Abbott in response to the second busload of undocumented immigrants arriving at his area on Sunday.

At a press conference on Sunday morning at the Port Authority, Adams welcomed a bus carrying about 40 refugees, only 14 of whom got off in the Big Apple, according to a report from Fox News.

"This is horrific when you think about what the governor is doing," Adams said, noting that many of the arriving families did not realize they were coming to New York City.

.@GregAbbott_TX used innocent people as political pawns to manufacture a crisis. New Yorkers are stepping up to fix it  thats our citys values.



But we need the federal governments help  money, technical assistance and more. pic.twitter.com/cOdXrULpcC  Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) August 7, 2022

He added that the families "were forced on the bus with the understanding that they were going to other locations that they wanted to go to, and when they tried to explain they were not allowed to do so."

His remarks come after the initial arrival on Friday of about 50 migrants at a Port Authority in New York City.

A Manufactured Crisis?

Adams has charged the governor of "manufacturing a crisis" by using defenseless people "as political pawns."

On Sunday, he expressed dissatisfaction over Abbott's administration's failure to adequately notify New York City of the refugees' impending arrival.

Mayor Eric Adams said: "They're not letting us know when the buses are leaving. They're not letting us know what are the needs of the people on the bus. They are not giving us any information, so we're unable to really provide the service to people en route."

Since April, Abbott has also been deploying undocumented workers to Washington, DC protest the Biden administration's inaction on the Texas border crisis.

Read Also: Why Are Flights Being Delayed? Americans Hit with Over 1000 Flight Cancellations, 6400 Delays

According to Abbott's statement he released on Friday, Operation Lone Star has filled in the "dangerous" holes left by the Biden Administration's failure to protect the border.

"Since the launch of Operation Lone Star, the multi-agency effort has led to more than 290,700 migrant apprehensions and more than 18,000 criminal arrests, with more than 15,400 felony charges reported," Abbot further claimed.

After first refuting Mayor Eric Adams' assertions that migrants being brought from Texas were overcrowding the city's homeless shelters, Governor Greg Abbott stated on Friday that he has begun sending buses to New York.

In addition to Washington, D.C., Abbott added in a statement that New York City is the best place for these migrants to settle because it offers them access to the "abundance of city services and housing" that Mayor Eric Adams has bragged about in the "sanctuary city."

He added: "I hope he follows through on his promise of welcoming all migrants with open arms so that our overrun and overwhelmed border towns can find relief."

Thousands of Migrants Have Already Been Moved

Recent estimates indicate more than 200 buses transporting more than 4,000 migrants have landed in Washington, DC since the operation began.

The Independent reported that an research conducted by NBC 5 in Dallas revealed that each passenger cost Texas taxpayers about $1,400.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has turned down a request from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser for the National Guard to assist received migrants transported to Washington, D.C. via bus.

A Pentagon official claimed in a statement that providing the requested resources would have a bad effect on the preparedness of the DC National Guard, as per a report from CBS News.

Related Article: Ukraine War: US Senators Urge Joe Biden to Declare Russia as State Sponsor of Terrorism | What Does That Mean?

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
IN THE city centre, the Morrisons Island Public Realm and Flood Defence Project, pursued as a separate project to the wider Lower Lee Flood Relief Scheme (LLFRS), faces its latest legal challenge this autumn.

The project is a Cork City Council-led public realm scheme with flood defence elements part funded by the Office of Public Works (OPW).

The OPW say the scheme provides for a complete renewal of the public space from Parnell Bridge along to Parliament Bridge, including enhanced flood protection measures.

Approved by city councillors in 2018, the scheme was subsequently approved by An Bord Pleanala (ABP) in June 2020.

In August 2020, the Save Cork City (SCC) Community Association Ltd applied for, and was granted, leave to take a Judicial Review of the ABP decision to approve the project.

The Judicial Review hearing took place in July 2021 and the High Court upheld the decision of ABP to grant the planning permission for the proposed development and refused a stay on the undertaking of any works pursuant to the grant of the planning permission for the proposed development and the High Court also subsequently refused a request for leave to appeal.

Earlier this year, an application was made directly to the Supreme Court and leave to appeal was granted in May 2022.

A spokesperson for the OPW said the appeal focuses primarily on the jurisdiction of An Bord Pleanala to conduct an EIA screening in an application made under s.177AE of the 2000 Act.

It is expected that the Supreme Court appeal will be processed over the coming months.

In the interim, work is advancing on the development of the detailed design documents for the scheme, pre-qualification of potential future contractors and other necessary elements.

It is expected that the scheme, when delivered, will be transformative in its impact and support additional private sector investment as well as new opportunities for public enjoyment of the overall area.

While the tender documentation for the procurement of a civil works contractor is being finalised, no decision on the appointment of a contractor to commence the works will be taken pending the outcome of the legal challenges, the spokesperson continued.

'SERIOUSLY EXPOSED'

Speaking to The Echo, Independent councillor Mick Finn expressed his frustration over the delays the scheme has faced.

Cork city remains seriously exposed to flooding and in my first few months as a councillor in 2009, the city centre was destroyed by the most serious flooding in generations and we called for action.

Nothing has happened since and I have been fully supportive of the Morrisons Island plan which has been stalled in the courts and elsewhere.

This protection and enhancement plan would defend the city centre at its lowest lying points and also improve the public realm.

Some experts complain about crumbling quays and lack of riverside amenity yet oppose the Morrisons Island plan that will remedy both of those issues, he said.

While I do have some issues with some elements of the larger Lower Lee project, repair and reappointing of the quay walls is an intrinsic part of it and is the only way our quays will be done other funding options are not there.

Cork city flood defence scheme set to be approved by early 2023 but plan still divides opinion https://t.co/ZrtOwpkWMK  EchoLive.ie (@echolivecork) August 8, 2022

It is extremely frustrating to have seen nothing happen in 13 years... hopefully we wont pay for it as a city, Mr Finn added.

In a 22-page letter to city councillors in late 2020, SCC detailed their concerns around the LLFRS and the Morrisons Island project.

On the Morrisons Island project, the group claim the scheme will not protect the city from flooding.

Morrisons Island works cannot provide the protection needed in the historic centre because time and again it has been proved that water rises from the ground within 15 minutes of the rats surfacing in a tidal surge flood event and this is the case in the most recent flood event.

It is misleading to say it can and it is misleading to not acknowledge the alteration to ground water and building foundations the proposals would cause, they said.

Green Party councillor Dan Boyle said he agrees that the scheme is the wrong approach in protecting the city centre from the regular flooding which it suffers.

Morrisons Island is meant to be part of the larger flood relief scheme thats being promoted by the OPW. I believe its the wrong approach. I believe its over-engineered.

I believe it looks at flooding in the wrong context. For instance, in the city centre a lot of the problem we have with flooding is overflow through the storm water system rather than over the quay walls so the pumping systems that they want to put in place I think is an over-elaborate approach.

I think we should take a more whole river approach. We need a flooding strategy that looks at the river almost in its entirety.

Were putting all our eggs into an engineering basket and a hard engineering basket which is a negative reaction to natural flood management which is more successful elsewhere and Im still at a loss to know why we want to go for the most costly way of dealing with a problem which weve only contributed to with poor planning in the past, he said.

Cork City Council says the scheme aims to capitalise on the quays south-facing aspect, by creating a high-quality public realm and opening up the views of the River Lee.

The Echo has learned that the Supreme Court has set a date of Thursday, October 20, to hear the appeal against the 2021 High Court decision which upheld the 2020 ABP planning approval for the Morrisons Island scheme.
According to a top policy source at the Pentagon, Russia's military has lost 70,000 to 80,000 soldiers since its initial onslaught on Ukraine in late February.

The Russian death toll is greater than prior US figures. Late last month, CIA Director William Burns claimed that 15,000 Russians had perished and 45,000 had been injured in Ukraine.

Pentagon: As Many as 80,000 Russian Forces Killed, Injured

However, Burns admitted that intelligence estimates of battlefield casualties are "always a range," and "there's no perfect number." Russia likely incurred the majority of its casualties during the first phase of its invasion, when it attempted but failed to take Kyiv and western Ukraine beginning Feb. 24. Kremlin forces have subsequently repositioned to target the industrial powerhouse of Ukraine's east, known as the Donbas, with long-range missiles.

"The Russians are taking a great number of casualties," Colin Kahl, Defense Department assistant secretary for policy, told reporters. According to Kahl, the number of Russian deaths is extraordinary, given that Moscow has achieved none of Vladimir Putin's objectives" since invading Ukraine six months ago, The Hill reported.

The calculation of Russia's losses, which represents a significant rise above previous approximate estimates of Moscow's spending, comes as the US and Ukraine's other Western partners strive to break what observers regard as a deepening impasse in the former Soviet state.

The Biden administration and other NATO nations have concentrated on giving modern weaponry to its Ukrainian allies that can hit previously out-of-reach Russian command sites, such as HIMARS powerful satellite-guided rocket launchers. Kahl spoke only hours after the Defense Department revealed a new shipment of $1 billion in military aid, including additional HIMARS and ammo, increasing the total US aid to the Ukrainian military to over $12 billion.

According to US News & World Report via MSN, the battle in Ukraine has degraded into an exchange of artillery fire and other long-range weaponry after weeks of focusing on the country's east, where Russia originally invaded eight years ago, however recent estimates reveal Russia looks to be deploying soldiers south.

Read Also: UN Speculates North Korea's Nearing Nuclear Weapons Test as Hermit Kingdom Expands Testing Facilities

US Sends Biggest Arms Package to Ukraine

The Biden administration promised $1 billion in extra military equipment to Ukraine on Monday, the greatest single drawdown of weapons from US inventories since Russia's incursion began over six months ago. More warheads for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and over 100,000 rounds of artillery and mortar ammunition are included in the security support package, which Ukrainians believe has helped change the tide of combat in the south and east.

The current pullback is the 18th since Russia invaded its neighbor on February 24, according to Pentagon sources. The new tranche has increased the total US security assistance to Ukraine to $9.8 billion since the start of the Biden administration. According to Kyiv officials, considerably more firepower is required to repel Russia's larger and better-armed army.

US authorities say they are working with Ukrainian defense officials to bring them what they need depending on the situation on the ground. At least 50 additional nations have also provided military assistance to Ukraine. British defense authorities and numerous top-level Russian military officers have been terminated as a result of their armed forces' poor performance during the invasion.

Kyiv and Moscow are accusing one other of attacking the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, Zaporizhzhia, over the weekend. The battle near the plant has raised worldwide concerns that nuclear activities may be jeopardized.

Even though the nuclear power plant has been under Russian control since the beginning of the war, Ukrainian experts continue to operate it. Both countries deny any involvement in the strike. Russian officials in Washington blamed Ukrainian nationalists, as per Washington Times.

Related Article: Russia-Ukraine War: North Korea Could Help Vladimir Putin's Army in Exchange for Grain, Energy [RUMOR]

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A privilege and an honour is how UCC lecturer Amanullah De Sondy has described getting Irish citizenship after applying in 2020.

The Senior Lecturer in Contemporary Islam at University College Cork applied for citizenship in Ireland after living here for five years.

Mr De Sondy, who has a British passport from growing up in Scotland, has been living in Ireland since 2015 but was compelled to apply to become an Irish citizen following Brexit and also to fight back against people telling him he would never be Irish because of his heritage and the colour of his skin.

It was a series of things, Brexit was one, I didnt want to lose my Europeanness, and also it was a response to ongoing criticism...

"It left me thinking what do I need to do to be Irish?

Mr De Sondy said going through the legal process of applying for Irish citizenship gave him a different sense of identity and belonging.

It made me feel even more Irish.

"Irishness is not a piece of paper, but it gave me a sense of belonging.

Mr De Sondy, whose parents are from Pakistan, said it was a bittersweet moment getting his Irish passport in the post that made him reflect on his privilege and his parents' sacrifice in making sure he and his siblings had every opportunity in life.
The 100th anniversary of the death of Michael Collins is set to be marked on RTE across television, radio and online.

To mark the centenary of the assassination of Collins, RTE Radio 1s Morning Ireland will broadcast from the Munster Arms Hotel, Bandon on Friday August 19, where Michael Collins was photographed alive for the last time, 30 minutes before he was killed in the ambush at Beal na Blath.

It will have an extended broadcast on the RTE digital news channel.

Asking difficult questions and using contemporary scientific analysis, former state pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy fronts Cold Case Collins, a television docu-drama that re-opens the case of the assassination of Michael Collins broadcasting on RTE One on Wednesday August 24 at 9:35pm.

His killing is one of the most contested events in Irish history, igniting acrimonious arguments that have endured ever since. In this formatted one-off, Cold Case Collins imagines the investigation that never happened, with an interrogation room set to uncover what happened in Beal na Blath on August 22, 1922.

Professor Cassidy will chair a 21st century cold case comprising forensic scientists, criminal investigators, military strategists, archaeologists, archivists and historians. The experts sift and filter through the evidence old and new, looking for answers to the questions that have ignited bar brawls for decades.

Former state pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy fronts RTEs Cold Case Collins.

Detailing whats known of his death, Nationwide on August 17 on RTE One will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the death of Michael Collins who, despite dying at the age of 32, helped alter the course of modern Irish history. Donal Byrne looks at Collinss early life and influences and hears how he became a master political strategist and organiser.

On Monday, August 22, Nationwide marks another pivotal date in Irish history: the 100th anniversary of An Garda Siochana. Born out of revolution and war, An Garda Siochana has evolved from being a force that, for many years, dealt with little very serious crime to an organisation that has had to adjust to dealing with organised crime and the complexities of modern Irish life.

Meanwhile, online at RTE.ie/history will continue to host a range of content relevant to this period. One of the most significant upcoming sections will feature the death of Michael Collins replete with interactive maps tracing the story of Collinss last journey and assassination.

This project is the product of a partnership between RTE History, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and The Atlas of the Irish Revolution edited by John Crowley, Donal O Drisceoil, Mike Murphy and John Borgonovo and published by the Cork University Press.

A spread of essays, written by expert historians from Ireland and elsewhere, have long provided readers with accessible resources.

A catalogue of history-based drama and documentaries are available on RTE Player, among them the award-winning Bloody Sunday, 1920, The Irish Revolution and 74 Days: The Hunger Strike of Terence MacSwiney.

All future Decade of Centenaries programming will also be available on RTE Player.
A HUB in which to work, live, and play is how VQ chairman Ciaran OConnor describes the rebranded part of Cork City that centres around MacCurtain St.

A hive of activity, the VQ has educational campuses, new businesses, cafes, restaurants, and bars mixed in with institutions such as the Metropole Hotel, the Shelbourne Bar, and Greenes.

Joining these established businesses are Moody  offering Spanish-themed tapas  two wine bars (Nells and MacCurtain Wine Cellar), 5 Points bagel place, and Thompsons restaurant, alongside the Glass Curtain and Priory Coffee.

Mr OConnor said the street has seen a resurgence in recent years, with a plethora of businesses expressing interest in setting up there.

The hospitality offering has improved, the restaurant offering is strong; you have The Everyman theatre, The Metropole Hotel, and a number of independent traders and new businesses, Mr OConnor said.

A great deal of redevelopment has transformed the area into the bustling business hub it is today.

Mr OConnor said the area has momentum. Chatting about the MacCurtain St public transport improvement scheme, which will upgrade the traffic systems of the surrounding area, Mr OConnor said it will build on what has already been achieved.

Cork City Council intends to reduce the speed limits to 30km/h on MacCurtain St, Bridge St, and Coburg St, alongside other traffic changes in the area, including the provision of new two-way cycle routes along the north quays and Merchants Quay. These will connect to the existing facilities on Popes Quay, Penrose Quay, and the Mary Elmes bridge and the city centre.

Aine Conaghan, who runs Nells wine bar on MacCurtain St, with Myles Linehan, and Epi Rogan. Picture: Jim Coughlan

The local authority also plans to remove traffic from Harley St and provide improved access to destinations along MacCurtain St, which will be converted from one-way eastbound to two-way traffic, with a number of changes, including a night-time taxi rank.

Hopefully, all the works will be completed by the end of next year, Mr OConnor said.

There will be a 70% reduction in traffic on MacCurtain St; it will no longer be one of the main arteries of the city. There will be increased footfall and less people sitting in their cars on the street.

Mr OConnor said the temporary footpath will be replaced with a boulevard-style pavement.

Cork City Council have made a big commitment to help redevelop the area, he said. Its important to make these changes and see transport needs better met by bikes, footfall, and buses.

As chairman of the VQ, Mr OConnor said he was proud of the area. Im the seventh family to own Falveys Pharmacy, on Bridge St, which has been operating since the 1830s and Im just holding the reins for the next person.

Mr OConnor said that as chairperson, he is building on the great work of his predecessors, Noreen Gannon, of Gallaghers gastro-pub, and Joan Lucey, of Vibes and Scribes.

Im merely standing on the shoulders of giants, Mr OConnor said. Two strong businesswomen held this role before me and they really turned on the lights in the area.

They are strong characters and a good example of how business people in conjunction with the council can get results.

One of the big moves made by the MacCurtain St Business Association  which has become the VQ business association in recent years  was the creation and fulfillment of a new role: Director of operations.

Gallaghers gastro-pub staff Andrew and Emma Gannon, Russell Bast, head chef, Noreen Gannon, Philip Neylon, manager, and Martin Gannon. Picture: Jim Coughlan

Together, the local traders have employed someone to spearhead the MacCurtain St renaissance.

Taking up the role in mid-May, Shane Clarke is bursting with enthusiasm.

A total of 22 businesses came together and put money in to create the role, Mr Clarke said.

There is a range of businesses in the VQ business association, made up of retail, service, bars, and restaurants.

Mr Clarke, who previously managed Nano Nagle Place, has taken up the role two days a week.

The idea is to become more strategic and to influence the future of the area, to get a better handle on the day-to-day and make the area cleaner, greener, and safer.

Mr Clarke said there is a strong sense of community in the area and he is looking forward to the transformation of that part of the city.

The VQ business association is working on a five-year plan, which will be revealed later in the year.

A woman with a business in the area for almost a decade is Noreen Gannon, of Gallaghers gastro-pub.

The pub has been there since the 1900s, but we have taken it over in the past nine years, Ms Gannon said.

We have had a big rebrand at Gallaghers recently; we have a larger emphasis on food and cocktails now. There is a huge interest in going out since Covid, I think; small plates and casual vibes are in.

Ms Gannon is part of a business partnership with Zacarias Fernandez Dominguez, at the other end of the street in one of the newer attributes, Moody.

Moody has a lovely vibe, Zac is very artistic and dynamic, he is bursting with ideas, he is very passionate, Ms Gannon said.

Moody and Gallaghers are two very separate businesses: Gallaghers does a fine fish and chip, Moody is tapas and wine.

Chatting about the new director of operations for the VQ, Ms Gannon said the association is lucky to have recruited Mr Clarke.

Its exciting times, we are all working together, and there is a huge amount of work going on behind the scenes. The area is going to be really distinctive going forward.

One of the newer businesses on the street is the Glass Curtain, run by chef Brian Murray.

We were open three months when Covid hit, Mr Murray said. We were really busy when we opened and we have been doing well in recent months.

Shane Clarke speaking at the restored Thompsons building on MacCurtain St. Picture: Gerard McCarthy

A fine-dining establishment with a casual vibe, the emphasis at the Glass Curtain is on local produce crafted into creative dishes.

He said he feels lucky to be part of such a vibrant street.

It was a no-brainer picking this location, Mr Murray said.

I have always had a gra for MacCurtain St. There are so many businesses, everyone is so supportive, and there is a really good environment. Everyone knows everyone.

The Carrigtwohill man, who spent years travelling the world, gathering experience, before moving home to Cork to set up his own place, said he is constantly improving the offering and experience of the Glass Curtain.

Im proud of the evolution; we have really gone up a level. The aim is to improve what we are doing and be proud of our work.

Another new business is Nells wine bar, run by Aine and Gavin Conahan.

This business has been in the works for five years, Ms Conahan told The Echo. My husband and I have been working in hospitality for the past 25 years, Gavin used to be a wine buyer for Wholefood Markets in the UK, and the plan was always to open our own place. It was always the dream.

Ms Conahan said things have gone better than expected. We are exhausted, but chuffed. We have created a place that we would like to go to. Its a grown-up place, with beautiful wine and food.

She said they are delighted with the location. We always wanted to be on MacCurtain St and MacCurtain Wine Cellar opened up just up the street within a few days of us. We complement each other; when we are full, we send people to them and they do the same for us.

Ms Conahan said the VQ area is the best place in the city for food and drink. It has everything, from Greenes and Issacs to the White Rabbit and 5 Points. There is a lot of support; you feel everyone wants you to do well.
By John R. Platt

In the wake of the Supreme Courts devastating decision to strike down Roe v. Wade, it feels more important than ever to talk about the roles feminism plays in environmental protection.

So lets dig in. Here are publishers descriptions of 20 books  most released in the past 18 months, plus a few forthcoming titles and one classic read  that address the intersection of feminism and the environment, explore the female side of nature, or seek to encourage women activists, leaders and naturalists. Many of these volumes will help inspire, while some will shine a light on ignored aspects of nature. And critically, a few of these books are written for the next generation, who now have another of our messes to repair.

Ecofeminism, Intersectionality & Inclusion

The Death of Nature: Women, Ecology and the Scientific Revolution (40th anniversary edition)

by Carolyn Merchant

An examination of the Scientific Revolution that shows how the mechanistic world view of modern science has sanctioned the exploitation of nature, unrestrained commercial expansion, and a new socioeconomic order that subordinates women.

The Intersectional Environmentalist: How to Dismantle Systems of Oppression to Protect People + Planet

by Leah Thomas

From the activist who coined the term comes a primer on intersectional environmentalism for the next generation of activists looking to create meaningful, inclusive and sustainable change. The Intersectional Environmentalist examines the inextricable link between environmentalism, racism and privilege, and promotes awareness of the fundamental truth that we cannot save the planet without uplifting the voices of its people  especially those most often unheard.

Feminism or Death: How the Womens Movement Can Save the Planet

by Francoise dEaubonne, translated by Ruth Hottell

Originally published in French in 1974, radical feminist Francoise dEaubonne surveyed womens status around the globe and argued that the stakes of feminist struggles were not about equality but about life and death  for humans and the planet. In this wide-ranging manifesto, dEaubonne first proposed a politics of ecofeminism, the idea that the patriarchal systems claim over womens bodies and the natural world destroys both, and that feminism and environmentalism must bring about a new mutation  an overthrow of not just male power but the system of power itself.

Fresh Banana Leaves: Healing Indigenous Landscapes Through Indigenous Science

by Jessica Hernandez

An Indigenous environmental scientist breaks down why western conservationism isnt working  and offers Indigenous models informed by case studies, personal stories and family histories that center the voices of Latin American women and land protectors.

Ecofeminism, Second Edition: Feminist Intersections With Other Animals and the Earth

edited by Carol J. Adams & Lori Gruen

Drawing on animal studies, environmental studies, feminist/gender studies and practical ethics, the ecofeminist contributors to this volume stress the need to move beyond binaries and attend to context over universal judgments; spotlight the importance of care as well as justice, emotion as well as reason; and work to undo the logic of domination and its material implications.

Violent Inheritance: Sexuality, Land and Energy in Making the North American West

by E Cram

Violent Inheritance deepens the analysis of settler colonialisms endurance in the North American West and how infrastructures that ground sexual modernity are both reproduced and challenged by publics who have inherited them. E Cram redefines sexual modernity through extractivism, wherein sexuality functions to extract value from life including land, air, minerals and bodies. Analyzing struggles over memory cultures through the regions land use controversies at the turn of and well into the twentieth century, Cram unpacks the consequences of western settlement and the energy regimes that fueled it.

Animal Crisis: A New Critical Theory

by Alice Crary & Lori Gruen

In stark contrast to traditional theories in animal ethics, which abstract from social mechanisms harmful to human beings, Animal Crisis makes the case that there can be no animal liberation without human emancipation. Borrowing from critical theories such as ecofeminism, Crary and Gruen present a critical animal theory for understanding and combating the structural forces that enable the diminishment of so many to the advantage of a few. With seven case studies of complex human-animal relations, they make an urgent plea to dismantle the human supremacism that is devastating animal lives and hurtling us toward ecocide.

Fat Girls Hiking: An Inclusive Guide to Getting Outdoors at Any Size or Ability

by Summer Michaud-Skog

From the founder of the Fat Girls Hiking community comes an inclusive, inspiring call to the outdoors for people of all body types, sizes and backgrounds. In a book brimming with heartfelt stories, practical advice, personal profiles of Fat Girls Hiking community members and helpful trail reviews, Summer Michaud-Skog creates space for marginalized bodies with an insistent conviction that outdoor recreation should welcome everyone.

Unsettling: Surviving Extinction Together

by Elizabeth Weinberg

Using the stories of animals, landscapes and people who have exhibited resilience in the face of persistent colonization across the North American continent, science writer Elizabeth Weinberg explores how climate change is a direct result of white supremacy, colonialism, sexism and heteronormativity. (Available Oct. 18)

Modern Female Leaders & Activists

Still Hopeful: Lessons From a Lifetime of Activism

by Maude Barlow

In this timely book, Barlow counters the prevailing atmosphere of pessimism that surrounds us and offers lessons of hope that she has learned from a lifetime of activism. She has been a linchpin in three major movements in her life: second-wave feminism, the battle against free trade and globalization, and the global fight for water justice. From each of these she draws her lessons of hope, emphasizing that effective activism is not really about the goal, rather it is about building a movement and finding like-minded people to carry the load with you. Barlow knows firsthand how hard fighting for change can be. But she also knows that change does happen and that hope is the essential ingredient.

Nature, Culture and the Sacred: A Woman Listens for Leadership (second edition)

by Nina Simons

Bioneers co-founder Nina Simons offers inspiration for anyone who aspires to grow into their own unique form of leadership with resilience and joy. Informed by her extensive experience with multicultural womens leadership development, Simons replaces the old patriarchal leadership paradigm with a more feminine-inflected style that illustrates the interconnected nature of the issues we face today.

Land of Women

by Maria Sanchez, translated by Curtis Bauer

Maria Sanchez is obsessed with what she cannot see. As a field veterinarian following in the footsteps of generations before her, she travels the countryside of Spain bearing witness to a life eroding before her eyes  words, practices and people slipping away because of depopulation, exploitation of natural resources, inadequate environmental policies, and development encroaching on farmland and villages. Sanchez, the first woman in her family to dedicate herself to what has traditionally been a male-dominated profession, rebuffs the bucolic narrative of rural life often written by  and for consumption by  people in cities, describing the multilayered social complexity of people who are proud, resilient and often misunderstood.

Right Here, Right Now: How Woman Can Lead the Way in the Climate Emergency

by Natalie Isaacs

The science is clear: if we continue to burn fossil fuels at current rates, the Earth will continue to warm. Already, the consequences of climate change are upon us. Now, in this powerful call to action with optimism at its heart, the founder of the global climate action movement 1 Million Women explains why we all must act, wherever we are, and why, in this decisive decade, we must act now. (Available Oct. 25)

The Female in Nature

Bitch: On the Female of the Species

by Lucy Cooke

Since Charles Darwin, evolutionary biologists have been convinced that the males of the animal kingdom are the interesting ones  dominating and promiscuous, while females are dull, passive and devoted. In Bitch, Cooke tells a new story. Whether investigating same-sex female albatross couples that raise chicks, murderous mother meerkats, or the titanic battle of the sexes waged by ducks, Cooke shows us new evolutionary biology, one where females can be as dynamic as any male. This isnt your grandfathers evolutionary biology. Its more inclusive, truer to life and, simply, more fun.

Sexus Animalis: There Is Nothing Unnatural in Nature

by Emmanuelle Pouydebat

In the animal kingdom we find heterosexual, lesbian, gay and bisexual behavior, as well as monogamy, polygamy and polyandry  Sexus Animalis tells us everything we never dreamed we wanted to know about the reproductive systems, genital organs and sexual practices of animals.

Lessons From History

Woman, Watching: Louise de Kiriline Lawrence and the Songbirds of Pimisi Bay

by Merilyn Simonds

Referred to as a Canadian Rachel Carson, Louise de Kiriline Lawrence lived and worked in an isolated log cabin near North Bay. After her husband was murdered by Bolsheviks, she refused her Swedish privilege and joined the Canadian Red Cross, visiting her northern Ontario patients by dogsled. When Elzire Dionne gave birth to five babies, Louise became nurse to the Dionne Quintuplets. Repulsed by the media circus, she retreated to her wilderness cabin, where she devoted herself to studying the birds that nested in her forest. Author of six books and scores of magazine stories, de Kiriline Lawrence and her loghouse nest became a Mecca for international ornithologists.

A Mighty Force: Dr. Elizabeth Hayes and Her War for Public Health

by Marcia Biederman

Elizabeth O. Hayes, MD, doctor for a coal company that owned the town of Force, Penn., where sewage contaminated the drinking waters and ambulances sank into muddy unpaved roads while corrupt managers When Hayes resigned to protest intolerable living conditions, 350 miners followed her in strike, shaking the foundation of the town and attracting a national media storm. Press  including women reporters, temporarily assigned to national news desks in wartime  flocked to the small mining town to champion Dr. Hayes cause. Slim, blonde and 33, Dr. Betty became the heroine of an environmental drama that captured the nations attention, complete with mustache-twirling villains, surprises, setbacks and a mostly happy ending.

Windswept: Walking the Paths of Trailblazing Women

by Annabel Abbs

a beautifully written meditation on connecting with the outdoors through the simple act of walking. In captivating and elegant prose, Abbs follows in the footsteps of women who boldly reclaimed wild landscapes for themselves, including Georgia OKeeffe in the empty plains of Texas and New Mexico, Nan Shepherd in the mountains of Scotland, Gwen John following the French River Garonne, Daphne du Maurier along the River Rhone and Simone de Beauvoir  who walked as much as twenty-five miles a day in a dress and espadrilles  through the mountains and forests of France Abbs explores a forgotten legacy of moving on foot and discovers how it has helped women throughout history to find their voices, to reimagine their lives, and to break free from convention.

For the Next Generation

Rebel Girls: Climate Warriors

by Rebel Girls

For Earth Day (and every day!), this mini edition of the award-winning Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls series spotlights the ground-breaking work of women on the frontlines of the fight for climate justice.

No Boundaries: 25 Women Explorers and Scientists Share Adventures, Inspiration and Advice

by Clare Fieseler & Gabby Salazar

Meet 25 female explorers and scientists in these inspirational and poignant stories of exploration, courage and girl power. Along the way, they share lessons learned and words of wisdom sure to inspire the next generation of scientists, adventurers and world-changers.

John R. Platt is the editor of The Revelator.

Reposted with permission from The Revelator.
Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions.

The riverbed of the Garonne River under the Pont Des Catalans bridge in Toulouse on Aug. 9, 2022. France is experiencing its worst drought since rain records began in 1959. Alain Pitton / NurPhoto via Getty Images

More than 100 French municipalities have no running drinking water as the country enters its fourth heat wave this summer while drought tightens its grip on Europe.

Sixty percent of land in the EU and UK was under a drought warning or alert in mid-July, the European Drought Observatory said Monday. No similar data in the last 230 years compares with the drought and heat we are experiencing this year. Then we have had storms, Luca Mercalli, the president of the Italian Meteorological Society, told The Guardian. These episodes are growing in frequency and intensity, exactly as forecast by climate reports over the last 30 years.

The desiccated conditions helped fuel wildfires across the continent and are hampering agriculture in numerous regions. Low water levels also threaten to block shipping on German waterways including the Rhine River  which are being used to transport increased coal shipments as Germany scrambles to slash its consumption and reliance on Russian methane-based gas  all as global food shortages and prices rise due to the Russian war in Ukraine as well as drought elsewhere.

This is going to be the new normal, Nuria Hernandez-Mora, co-founder of New Water Culture, told The Guardian. Yet we continue to approve the increased use of a resource we dont have and which is becoming scarcer.

For a deeper dive:

Drought: The Guardian, CNN, FT; French heat wave: AP; Photos: The Guardian, The Independent; Climate Signals background: Drought, Extreme heat and heat waves, Wildfires

For more climate change and clean energy news, you can follow Climate Nexus on Twitter and Facebook, sign up for daily Hot News, and visit their news site, Nexus Media News.
United States President Joe Biden announced the country's largest assistance package to Ukraine, providing $1 billion in weapons to the European nation to help fight against Russia.

The Department of Defense said the massive delivery is the largest sent to Ukraine under the Biden administration. The U.S. has already sent a total of $9.8 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the Democrat took office. This number far eclipsed the $2 billion that the U.S. sent between 2014 and 2021.

U.S. Aid to Ukraine

In a statement, the Pentagon said, "To meet Ukraine's evolving battlefield requirements, the United States will continue to work with its allies and partners to provide Ukraine with key capabilities calibrated to make a difference."

Today, the United States has authorized our biggest security assistance package to date for Ukraine.



This package will get additional ammunition, weapons, and equipment to Ukraine to help meet their critical security needs as they defend their country.  President Biden (@POTUS) August 8, 2022

First on the weapons list sent to Ukraine is additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). The Ukrainian military has touted the new weapons platform as a game changer in its fight with Moscow, as per Fox News.

Furthermore, the U.S. is also sending 75,000 rounds of 155mm artillery ammunition, 20 120mm mortar systems, and 20,000 rounds of 120mm mortar ammunition. The European country will also receive additional munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS).

This package includes 1,000 Javelin and hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems; 50 armored medical treatment vehicles; Claymore anti-personnel munitions; C-4 explosives, demolition munitions, and demolition equipment; Medical supplies, and other equipment.

Read Also: Ukraine War: UN Chief Blasts Shelling of Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Seeks End to Such 'Suicidal' Attacks

According to CNBC, in a statement, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that the U.S. would continue to consult closely with Ukraine and surge additionally available systems and capabilities carefully calibrated to make a difference on the battlefield.

War With Russia

The official noted that they would help strengthen Ukraine's eventual position at the negotiating table. The announcement of the package comes a day after a report was reversed after it claimed that the majority of military aid sent to Ukraine never reaches the front lines.

During an interview in April, non-profit founder Jonas Ohman said that roughly 30% of the assistance to Ukraine reaches its final destination. His Lithuania-based group, Blue-Yellow, has been ferrying non-lethal military aid to Ukrainian combat units since the beginning of the war with Russia, The Week reported.

The situation also comes as Pink Floyd's Roger Waters defended Russia and criticized Biden for being a "war criminal." He accused the Democratic president of "fueling the fire in the Ukraine" war.

The co-founder of Pink Floyd made his remarks during his latest solo concert tour, where he also had an image of Biden in a montage of "war criminals." Included was a message "Just getting started" over the 46th president's face.

Waters wondered aloud why the U.S. would not encourage Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to negotiate with Russia. He was then pushed on his remarks and accused of blaming the party that got invaded.

In February, Russia's military forces invaded Ukraine after previously taking over and annexing the region of Crimea in 2014. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian media have offered the false narrative of denazifying Ukraine to justify the invasion despite Zelensky being Jewish, as per The Hill.

Related Article: Reports Assert Only 30% of Western Weapons Reach Ukrainian Troops, Most Sold in the Black Market

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Chinese carmaker launches electric car in Indonesia

Xinhua) 09:11, August 09, 2022

BEKASI, Indonesia, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW), a major Chinese automobile manufacturer, through its local unit SGMW Motor Indonesia (Wuling), on Monday launched here its production of the electric vehicle in Indonesia, named Wuling Air EV.

"The Air EV is the newest version of battery-based electric vehicles manufactured by SGMW for the world, and Indonesia has become the first station," President Director of Wuling, Shi Guoyong, said in the roll-out ceremony at Wuling's production factory in Bekasi, West Java province.

The production capacity of Wuling Air EV at the factory is targeted to reach 10,000 units per year for both the domestic market and export, according to the company's director for brand and marketing, Dian Asmahani. Specific prices for the electric car will be announced soon.

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto attended the launch ceremony and said the Indonesian government appreciates the performance of Wuling.

The minister said Wuling brings Air EV with the latest technologies to Indonesia, which support the Indonesian government's strategy for energy saving, emissions reduction, and environmental protection.

"The launching of Air EV drives major changes to the entire Indonesian automotive industry chain, from product research and development, manufacturing, to marketing, etc., and also drives the rapid development of the electric vehicle industry in Indonesia," he said.

The minister said Wuling Air EV will be used as one of the official cars for the G20 Summit to be held in Bali this November.

SGMW invested 1 billion U.S. dollars in 2015 to build a 60-hectare automotive industrial park in Bekasi, as an automotive production base for the Indonesian and Southeast Asian markets.

Data showed that in June 2022, Wuling had 140 local dealers in Indonesia, with a total of six types of vehicles produced and sold locally.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executed a search warrant at former United States President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago amid an investigation looking into the discovery of White House records at the Republican's estate.

Two people familiar with the investigation said that the search appeared to be focused on material that Trump had brought with him to Mar-a-Lago, his private club and residence, after leaving the White House. The boxes allegedly contained many pages of classified documents from his presidency.

FBI Searches Trump's Mar-a-Lago Residence

The former president delayed returning 15 boxes of the material requested by officials with the National Archives for several months, only doing so when there became a threat of action being taken to retrieve them.

Trump has been known throughout his term to rip up official material that was intended to be held for government archives. In a statement, Trump said, "After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate," as per the New York Times.

The Republican businessman also argued that the FBI broke into his safe, asking what the difference was between the raid on his home and Watergate, where operatives broke into the Democratic National Committee.

Trump, despite his criticism of the FBI's search, did not share any details about what the agents said they were searching for. However, he depicted himself as a victim of shadowy forces seeking to damage him.

Read Also: 'This Is Horrific': New York City Mayor Eric Slams Texas Governor Gregg Abbott for Using Migrants as 'Political Pawns'

According to CNN, the former president also claimed that his Palm Beach, Florida, residence was under siege. The raid began early Monday morning while Trump was not present and law enforcement personnel appeared to be focused on the area of the club where officers and the Republican's personal quarters were located.

Presidential Records

The Justice Department declined to comment regarding the raid and the White House also refused to comment on the incident. One White House official also said that it was not notified about the raid beforehand.

The raid comes after in February, the National Archives and Records Administration NARA said that they retrieved 15 boxes of White House records and other items stored at the Mar-a-Lago property. The documents contained important records of communication along with Trump's self-described "love letters" with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

They also included a letter addressed to Trump from his predecessor, former President Barack Obama. The reported keeping of White House records at the estate violated the Presidential Records Act. This requires that the government keep all forms of documents and communications related to a president or vice president's official duties.

In a statement, an archivist of the United States, David Ferriero, said that the Presidential Records Act mandates that all presidential records must be properly preserved by each administration so that a complete set of records is transferred to the National Archives at the end of the term.

The National Archives Public and Media Communications released a statement saying that it arranged for the transport of 15 boxes containing the presidential records from Trump's Florida property in January after discussing with the former president's representatives, NPR reported.

Related Article: Ahmaud Arbery Shooting: 3 Convicted Killers Hit with Federal Hate Crimes, Life in Prison Sentence Over Murder

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In a nondescript warehouse outside of Atlanta, nestled among the office parks and chain restaurants that pepper suburban America, AT&T is preparing for catastrophe. This is one of the company's Network Disaster Recovery (NDR) sites, a place where a volunteer group of AT&T workers can test and train on equipment that can quickly spin up connectivity when a local office is destroyed.

Longtime Engadget readers may remember our 2008 visit to a similar Chicago-area site, only a year after the launch of the iPhone and long before the company started deploying 4G LTE. Given just how much the world has changed since then  with smartphones in practically every pocket, and billion-dollar weather and climate disasters on the rise.

Gallery: AT&T NDR site | 11 Photos



















/11 Gallery: AT&T NDR site | 11 Photos



















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Originally launched in 1991, AT&T has spent over $650 million in the US building up the NDR program (up $100 million since 2008). Since 2017, AT&T has also provided network support for FirstNet (First Responder Network Authority), which delivers a public safety wireless network throughout America. Both T-Mobile and Verizon have their own disaster response initiatives, but AT&Ts cellular division has the advantage of launching more than a decade before either of those competitors arrived in the US. Neither company has publicly stated how much they invest in disaster recovery, and our inquiries for more specifics have gone unanswered.

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Its one thing for AT&T to claim its spending a huge chunk of change on disaster recovery (the cynic in me cant help but wonder how that figure is calculated). But seeing the vast amounts of gear the company has devoted to its NDR program makes one thing clear: This is more than just good PR. Its a moral mission for AT&Ts volunteer staff, many of which come from military backgrounds. While its not as mission critical as supplying food, water and shelter, providing connectivity could still save lives by making it easier for first responders to communicate with each other, not to mention giving people in danger a way to reach out for help.

AT&T NDR's Flying COW (Cell-on-wings) drone. Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

During our 2008 visit, we learned the NDR team was using a standard Chevy Suburban jam-packed with cellular gear to restore parts of its network. Today, theyre looking to the sky and beyond. (That Suburban has also been replaced by a 4x4 emergency response club cab pickup.) AT&T has been using drones called Flying COWs (Cell-on-wings) for several years, but its upcoming iteration can spit out 5G coverage to around ten square miles from 300 feet in the air, while the drones currently being used deliver Band 14 LTE.

For safety reasons, all of the company's drones are currently tethered to stations on the ground, which provide power for as long as their generators can stay fueled. They also require two people to operate  one to fly the drone, and another to keep an eye out for obstacles. The drone I saw looked larger than any consumer model I've seen, and it can hold a payload up to five pounds.

Looking ahead, AT&T has patented a remote flight system that lets operators control drones from thousands of miles away, and it's exploring solar-powered units that could fly autonomously for days. (Unfortunately, I didn't get to see AT&T's 55-foot long blimp, which flies 1,000 feet in the air to provide connectivity across 100 miles for up to two weeks.) NDR staffers tell me AT&T is also testing robodogs that can deal with a variety of scenarios  from running up a mountain during a forest fire, to helping with bomb disarmament.

The company has also beefed up its ground and water game with the Amphib. With its enormous treads, it looks like a red mini-tank, but it can also float and make its way through water using rear propellers. It's the sort of vehicle that can make dealing with hurricanes much easier, according to AT&T's Kelly Morrison, who is also a longtime NDR volunteer. The Amphib is basically a people and payload mover, but it gives the company more flexibility when dealing with flooded areas. Given the historic rainfalls we've recently seen in St. Louis and Kentucky, in addition to inevitable rising sea levels, the Amphib could end up being one of the NDR team's most useful tools.

The rotors on the rear of AT&T's Amphib vehicle. Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

Of course, these new toys are great and all, but the core of AT&T'S NDR team continues to be its COLTs (Cell on Light Truck). They can tap into the company's existing fiber backhaul lines and deliver cellular connectivity within a few hours. If local infrastructure is completely down, AT&T can use SatCOLTs to reach satellites instead. And for hard-to-access areas, the company now has "Compact Rapid Deployables" (CRDs), which can fit on the back of a truck or be hiked to the top of a mountain. The company also has thousands of generators on-hand  a necessity for every disaster site. While the main goal is to restore connectivity for first responders and customers, AT&Ts FirstNet commitment also ensures interoperability with competing carriers too.

During the devastating Marshall Fire in Colorado, which destroyed more than 1,000 homes, FirstNet responders rushed to set up two SatCOLT's over New Year's Eve. Additional teams came in from Kansas, Texas, New Mexico and Missouri, leading to a peak of eight SatCOLTs being used to support FirstNet works and local businesses. The fire wasn't the only challenge: Additional calls required a team to cover two mountain passes during heavy snow conditions.

Servers and other cellular equipment stored in an NDR trailer. Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

The NDR team hasn't gotten many breaks throughout the year. According to AT&T, three SatCOLTs helped first responders during Yosemite's wildfire in July. And as of August 1st, FirstNET also deployed another two SatCOLTs to assist rescue operations during the recent flood in Kentucky. The team has been deployed more often since 2018, when AT&T was tapped to support FirstNet, and its also responding to the increasing number of wildfires were seeing in the US.

And, of course, NDR workers are always keeping an eye on new ways to improve their disaster response. The team tells us they're looking forward to using low-Earth satellites eventually, which would offer more bandwidth and lower latency than the existing fixed satellites. Virtualizing their work would also be a huge help. Currently, much of their response involves moving workers and setting up control centers in dangerous areas. But as they move towards smaller and easier to deploy assets, like drones and CRDs, they may not have to set up a trailer at all.

COVID-ready sleeping and shower units for NDR workers. Devindra Hardawar/Engadget

After my tour of the NDR site, I couldnt help but notice the cellular equipment dotting the sparse Georgia landscape. I could see towers at practically every high point in the area, delivering robust 5G speeds on the same roads where I used to struggle to get 2.5G Edge reception over a decade ago. Its easy to take this blanket of connectivity for granted. And now that were starting to see more frequent extreme weather events, its clear that AT&Ts NDR team, and similar initiatives from competitors, will be more necessary than ever.
Google has sued Sonos, alleging that its new voice assistant violates seven patents related to its own Google Assistant technology, CNET has reported. It's the latest salvo in a long-running smart speaker battle between the companies, with each suing and countersuing the other following a period when they worked together.

"[Sonos has] started an aggressive and misleading campaign against our products, at the expense of our shared customers," a Google spokesperson said in a statement.

Sonos' Voice Control assistant arrived in June, letting users give commands with the phrase "Hey Sonos," much like Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. In the complaint, Google said it "worked for years with Sonos engineers on the implementation of voice recognition and voice-activated devices control in Sonos products... even providing its Google Assistant software to Sonos for many years."

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The fight erupted in early 2020 when Sonos sued Google for alleged patent infringement after the companies had collaborated for several years. Sonos claimed that Google gained knowledge of its technology when they worked together and used that information to develop its own smart speaker line. The company filed another suit in September 2020, claiming that Google infringed on five more patents.

Google countersued, alleging that Sonos was using Googles search, software, networking, audio processing and other technology without paying a license fee and made "false claims" about their work together

In 2021, the US International Trade Commission ruled that Google infringed on five Sonos patents. That forced Google to change the way its speakers were set up to avoid an import ban. Most of those were related to the way speaker groups are controlled  for instance, users can no longer change the volume of a group of speakers and must adjust them individually instead.

"Google previously sued us all over the world and Sonos has prevailed in every decided case," Sonos' chief legal officer Eddie Lazarus told CNET. "[The latest lawsuits] are an intimidation tactic designed to retaliate against Sonos for speaking out against Google's monopolistic practices."
Due to the EU energy crunch, one of its members, Poland, has ignored Brussels' plan to lessen gas use and share all supplies, which drew venom. The EU state said that the European Commission has no prerogative to compel Warsaw to agree to what it wants.

EU Pushes To Lessen Gas Use and Share Supplies

The country's climate and environment minister, Anna Moskwa, told Sieci that there would be no compliance to reduce gas use and gas reserves with other bloc members, reported RT.

Nobody can compel Warsaw to control gas or impose other restrictions. Moreover, there is no wish to make choices regarding limits in other states.

Her remarks refer to the EU's aim to decrease gas use by 15% across the bloc, which is anticipated to help member countries fill stockpiles amid concerns about a potential outage in Russian gas supplies.

Moskwa stated in the interview that such a plan was not made mandatory and thus should be interpreted as guidance rather than law, noted CSM Times.

It is voluntary, and EU members have a right to decide to follow or not; Brussels has no power to determine.

Furthermore, the proposal does not concern the pooling of shared gas reserves among bloc members but rather makes it obvious that Poland does not want to be generous to Brussels.

Anyone else will not be rationed whatever supplies are available during the US energy crunch, citing the Good Word News.

She further stated that the gas remains in their reserves and that the EC has no authority to demand anything from the state. It is important to emphasize that solidarity comes with freedom; when coercion is employed, it stops.

Read Also: Vladimir Putin Net Worth 2022: Does Anyone Know Russian President's Hidden Wealth?

Because the infrastructure, gas pipelines, and purchases are state property, only Warsaw can decide how to use them and who needs them.

Moskwa stated that if there are EU countries with the necessary capabilities and facilities, they may support their neighbors through bilateral treaties.

Siemens To Continue Service of Nord Stream 1

The firm announced a complete withdrawal from the country by the end of the year.

Despite plans to end operations in Russia this year, German industrial manufacturing giant Siemens Energy may continue to maintain the Nord Stream 1 natural gas pipeline, the company's CEO Christian Bruch said on Monday, said on Monday.

He also mentioned continuing current operations in Russia, such as maintaining machinery for Nord Stream 1, to guarantee steady gas deliveries to Europe, mentioned the Press United.

One of the components is presently being returned to Russia by the German firm in charge of maintaining the turbines at the Portovaya compressor station for Nord Stream 1.

However, sanctions have caused a several-week lag in the equipment's arrival. The turbine was initially delayed in Canada as it was serviced, and then it was held in Germany while still being transported.

Bruch said last Monday that the business expects significant losses as a result of leaving Russia, which will adversely affect the earnings from its operations.

The German company announced that it would reluctantly withdraw totally from Russia in the fall. Not only is Poland affected by the EU energy crunch, and Brussel has not solved it, but even Siemens also needs to stay on in Russia to keep the gas flowing.

Related Article: Moscow Says Western Claims Russia Will Not Threaten Kyiv With Nuclear Attack Is Baseless

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Almeria

Localizado con vida el desaparecido en Pulpi (Almeria) y evacuado a un hospital
Euro Showing Relative Weakness as Italian Politics Back in Focus and Sovereign Debt Downgraded

Mondays session has started well for risk assets and stock markets are higher just ahead of the US open. Meanwhile, the US dollar and yields are both lower, as are oil prices. All these moves are contra to what could be expected following Fridays NFP report where a huge beat showed +528k jobs added in July. This increased the probabilities of a 75bps hike by the Fed in September and suggested the US economy remains in very good shape. Technically, the US is in recession according to real GDP, but this is only one way of measuring the economy.

Dollar pairs are higher across the board, but not uniformly. AUDUSD leads the pack with a gain of +1.14% while EURUSD is lagging again with a gain of only +0.18%. This weakness comes after yet more bad news for the Euro as Italian politics threatens to flare up again and the ratings agency Moodys downgraded Italian sovereign debt to a negative footing.

Italian Politics Far from Stable

Italian politics is rarely straightforward and the latest round of turmoil threatens stability in the eurozone and is likely to weigh on the Euro for a variety of reasons.

Mario Draghi resigned as Prime Minister late last month after the coalition broke apart and handed an opportunity to parties on the right. Further splintering since then laves the election on September 25th wide open.

The leader of Italy's centrist Azione party said on Sunday it would leave a centre-left election alliance it formed with the Democratic Party (PD) last week, dealing a blow to the coalition's odds ahead of a Sept. 25 ballot, reported Reuters.

Polls already suggest the centre-left alliance is lagging behind the right, and it looks like members of the far-right could take control.

Polls show that a conservative alliance is poised to win next month's election, with the far-right Brothers of Italy set to be the largest single party, continued Reuters.

Such a move would be a threat to the Euro as not only could the far-right align themselves more in line with Hungarys Orban and even Putin, they could take a different approach to complying with EU financial regulations. Draghi and the centre-left pursued a policy of attempting to meet EU budget targets in order to access funding, but some of the sacrifices required were contentious and could be ignored by a new alliance.

Debt Downgrade

Political turmoil comes at a critical time for Italian  and eurozone  finances. Rising yields have climbed faster in certain countries such as Italy, Greece, Spain and Portugal and these heavily indebted countries could be crippled by higher yields. This was brought into focus on Friday as Moodys downgraded Italian debt from stable to negative, just one notch above junk. Heres what the ratings agency had to say:

...risks to Italy's credit profile have been accumulating more recently because of the economic impact of Russia's invasion of Ukraine (Caa3 negative) and domestic political developments, both of which could have material credit implications:

1. Heightened risks that the political environment will impede the implementation of structural reforms, including those contained in Italy's National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP);

2. Increased risk that energy supply challenges will weaken economic prospects;

3. Risks that Italy's fiscal strength will be further weakened by sluggish growth, higher funding costs, and potentially weaker fiscal discipline.

This is a situation that could deteriorate into the September election and will keep the downwards pressure on the Euro, which had its problems before Draghis coalition fell apart. EURUSD is trading at 1.02 and likely tests parity again ahead of the vote.
Tuesday, August 9, 2022

If youre serious about learning how to sell preneed funerals and cemetery property, this list of tips holds the keys you need to succeed. These five tips offer takeaway ideas from my attendance at the 2022 ICCFA University J. Asher Neel College of Sales & Marketing. These Golden Nuggets of information for those involved in sales and marketing of funeral services and cemetery property came from the excellent speakers who presented there.

I know how hard it can be, many people get discouraged about selling funeral services and cemetery property, as well as insurance. Not many people want to buy funeral products and services in advance. These preneed sales tips can help you more easily sell funeral products or services BEFORE theres a death in a family.

Tip # 1  How To Answer The Question, What Does A Funeral Or Cremation Cost?

It helps to frame the question as if the prospective customer was asking, What does a car cost? The answer is, It depends what you want. Do you want a Rolls Royce or a Corolla? A pickup truck, a station wagon or a sedan? Many people dont know much about the funeral business and have no idea about all the many choices that could be made. Its a conversation-starting question that can help the family better understand the process.

Tip # 2  How Can Your Business Be More Visible To Google Searches?

Welton Hong with Ring Ring Marketing explained the best way to organically show up in searches is to complete your Google business listing. Add more pictures, descriptions of your products and services, and keep your listing up to date. Its almost a mini-website. Then make sure your information is the same on other platforms like Yelp and your Facebook page.

Tip # 3  Use Your Funeral Home Service Dog To Connect With People.

More funeral homes are having trained therapy dogs on site to help comfort grieving families as they make at-need arrangements. If you are going out in public to generate warm leads for preneed planning, bring the dog(s) with you! People are attracted to pet and talk to dogs, and in the process, their resistance to discussing funeral planning will be reduced.

Tip # 4  Connect Better With Prospective Clients With Online Research.

Mitch Bennett with Indiana Memorial Group shared his tips on making prospecting easier with 10 minutes of online research. Start with a Google search and see what comes up. You can actually see a prospects house with Google Earth. Look them up on Facebook to see their passions, interests, losses. He also accesses Zillow, the White Pages online, and Ancestry.com. He pays $30 a month for Truth Finder, a public records search service. He doubled his rate of appointment setting by doing this research, well worth the investment of time and money.

Tip # 5  Go To Public Events Where People Are Gathering.

Daniel Thomas with Forest Lawn in the L.A. area, and Dean of the J. Asher Neel College of Sales & Marketing, shared tips for getting out into the community to generate leads. Find places which allow booth opportunities. Smaller events include corporate health fairs, church functions like Bingo nights, car washes and special events at senior or community centers. Mid-size events include farmers markets, concert series, movie nights, grocery stores, and home shows. Large events include senior expos, veterans or ethnic events, air and car shows, county fairs and other expos, fairs and festivals. Hes also used kiosk displays in malls. If youve got service dogs, bring the dogs!

You should definitely give these approaches a try and see if they work for you.

If you want to sell more preneed funerals and cemetery property, check out this how-to guide and tools How to Put the Fun in Funeral Planning with Before I Die Festivals! at www.BeforeIDieFestivals.com  Itll blow your mind!

Gail Rubin, The Doyenne of Death, graduated from ICCFA University in July, 2022. An unconventional death educator, she is a Certified Funeral Celebrant, a published author of three books on end-of-life issues, and a licensed insurance agent. She coordinated the Before I Die New Mexico Festival for five years in a row.

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TaskUs Inc. is continuing to grow globally as it follows through on plans to cut its U.S. workforce.

The New Braunfels-based provider of customer support, content security and artificial intelligence operations swung to a profit in the second quarter as revenue jumped nearly 37 percent and it eliminated 500 jobs.

While we delivered strong results, we are seeing the impact of our clients shifting their focus from growth to cost optimization, CEO and co-founder Bryce Maddock told reporters and analysts Monday evening.

Net income in the three months ended June 30 jumped to $7.7 million from a loss of $106 million a year ago. Revenue increased to $246.5 million from $180 million.

It finished the quarter with a global workforce of 45,300 employees across 26 locations in 13 countries. That was down 500 from the end of the first quarter, when Maddock said it was planning layoffs in the U.S.

On Monday, he said the reduction was driven by our clients focus on cost reduction by reducing team sizes, primarily in our U.S. operations and among our crypto clients. The company also eliminated some corporate roles.

TaskUs has said it had more than 4,000 employees in the U.S., with most in New Braunfels, San Antonio and Harlingen in the Rio Grande Valley. It has declined to specify the number of employees in each location. It was unclear how many Texas employees were laid off.

Earlier this year, Maddock said cuts were coming because clients were seeking lower costs amid what he called a volatile environment.

In the search for immediate savings, some of our clients have cut vendor spend, he said Monday. Since our last call, this trend has accelerated particularly among our clients in cryptocurrency and equity trading spaces.

The companys clients include Netflix, Zoom, Uber and Facebook parent Meta.

More jobs overseas

Maddock said TaskUs has been shifting work for Meta from higher-revenue, on-shore locations to lower-revenue, off-shore locations and adding employees.

Weve seen very strong volume growth with this client, he said. Were adding over 1,000 additional roles for them in the back half of this year.

S.A. VOTES Voter Guide: What to know for the Texas runoff election A breakdown of key state and local races and candidates in the May 24 primary runoff.

TaskUs international operations generate most of its revenue. Its workers in the Philippines led the way in 2021, accounting for 53 percent of its revenue, compared with 32 percent of the total from the U.S.

It continued to grow its international footprint in the second quarter with completion of its acquisition of heloo, a Croatia-based provider of digital customer service to technology companies on that continent. It marks TaskUs first acquisition since going public in June 2021.

Maddock called it another step forward on our growth trajectory and provides us with a solid footprint in Central and Eastern Europe. Employees at heloo support 20 languages across seven Eastern European countries, including Bosnia, Serbia and Slovenia.

In its report released after markets closed Monday, TaskUs revised its estimate for third-quarter revenue to between $224 million and $226 million. Its guidance for the full year now is for revenue between $930 million and $950 million, down from previous projections of $980 million to $1 billion.

TaskUs shares, which gained about 2 percent Monday in regular trading, fell nearly 15 percent in after-hours trading after the report. They continued to fall Tuesday, closing down more than 24 percent to $17.73.

eric.killelea@express-news.net
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The new owners of the Tower Life Building in downtown San Antonio want to give the iconic 31-story office building a new life.

Since it was built in 1929, the Gothic Revival tower with its distinctive green tile roof has housed workplaces and a department store. Soon, it could house people.

A group that includes the McCombs family, local developer Ed Cross and Jon Wiegand of Alamo Capital Advisers bought the building from the Zachry family in May for an undisclosed price. Now, theyre hoping to partner with Bexar County to convert it to 234 mixed-income housing units and ground-floor retail.

While the building has continued to be a beacon for downtown San Antonio and its architectural facade has never been more beautiful, unfortunately the underlying fundamentals of the building have degraded rapidly, Wiegand told county commissioners Tuesday.

The owners want to partner with the nonprofit Bexar County Public Facility Corp., which would provide a property tax exemption. In return, some of the housing units would be reserved for lower-income residents.

Currently, they said the building is not self-sustaining and only about 40 percent occupied. Its tenants include many attorneys, and the Zachry family maintains an office there. Filling space in the building was a problem before the coronavirus pandemic, Wiegand said, but the resulting shift to remote work and locations outside downtown has not helped.

We view this as a leadership opportunity to show a path forward for one of our citys proudest historic buildings and bring back a full-time resident population to the core of our downtown, he said.

The public facility corporations board, which is made up of commissioners, gave the green light Tuesday to begin negotiations on an agreement with the Tower Life owners.

Downtown living

The building is within walking distance of Hemisfair, the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, the University of Texas at San Antonios downtown campus and other attractions, but residents who still need a car would have access to 145 slots in an adjacent parking garage, Wiegand said.

Floors two through six, which were once occupied by San Antonios first Sears, Roebuck & Co. department store, would include loft-style apartments with tall ceilings. All the apartments in the eight-sided building will have terrific views, Wiegand said.

Wiegand has experience redeveloping historic buildings, including the Trust Building in downtown Los Angeles. Cross developed the Vistana apartments at 100 N. Santa Rosa St., now known as Inspire Downtown, and the 1221 Broadway apartments.

Commissioner Tommy Calvert, whose Precinct 4 includes the Tower Life Building, said rising rents and home prices have created an environment of tremendous housing stress. He asked how much the owners plan to spend updating the buildings infrastructure. Calvert also wanted to know the range of rents and how the public would benefit aside from preserving a prominent historic building.

Cross said the owners expect to determine constructions costs and the mix of rents during negotiations with the county, but added that they intend to provide housing for all ages and all incomes.

A recent deal with developer Weston Urban should be a starting point for determining the mix of units, said David Marquez, the countys director of economic and community development.

Weston Urban plans to renovate the former Continental Hotel and Arana buildings and the Melchio de la Garza house downtown. The firm also plans to construct a residential tower with about 255 apartments between those buildings.

Under Weston Urbans partnership with the county, half the units would be for residents earning up to 80 percent of the areas median income. Of that total, 20 percent would be for residents making up to 60 percent of the area median. The remaining apartments would be rented at market rates.

The countys public facility corporation was created in January partly in response to Weston Urbans development. In exchange for including units at lower income levels, the firm would receive a property tax exemption.

Calvert said other mechanisms such as the Inner City Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone and energy efficiency programs could be used to help make the Tower Life project financially viable.

With the forgoing of tax revenue, there has to be a public benefit, Calvert said.

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff said such projects makes sense as office buildings in inner cities across the country have been hit hard by the pandemic. He added that its important to have people living downtown.

Tower Life history

S.A. VOTES Voter Guide: What to know for the Texas runoff election A breakdown of key state and local races and candidates in the May 24 primary runoff.

In 1929, the 404-foot office building opened as the Smith-Young Tower.

Designed by prominent architects Atlee Ayres and his son Robert Ayres, it cost Smith Bros. Properties Co. between $2.5 million and $3 million to build.

The six elevators, having all-automatic controls, were not able to handle the crowds, the San Antonio Light newspaper reported, describing the excitement over the buildings opening. Hundreds didnt wait for elevators but climbed up and down long flights of stairs. The crowd did not become thin until midnight.

It was an early example of a mixed-use building, with the Sears store on the first six floors and offices above.

Six elevators in the lobby were originally designed for the Chrysler Building in New York. But when construction on that building was delayed and the Tower Life building was on schedule, the elevators were sent to San Antonio and gave the building the opportunity to boast about the fastest elevator speeds outside of the Big Apple, Wiegand said.

The Smith brothers wanted to construct multiple skyscrapers around a tower rivaling Rockefeller Center in New York, but the Great Depression sank those ambitions.

The building went into receivership and was purchased by Rupe & Son Inc. of Dallas. After buying the city bus system, a group led by D. Gordon Rupe moved San Antonio Transit Co.s headquarters into the building and renamed it the Transit Tower.

The building was also the headquarters of the Third U.S. Army, and then-Col. Dwight D. Eisenhower took the oath as a brigadier general there in 1941.

H.B. Zachry bought the building in 1943. He was board chairman at Citizens Republic Life Insurance, which was based in the building. After the company changed its name in the 1960s, the building became the Tower Life Building.

It was the citys tallest building until 1988, when the 546-foot Marriott Rivercenter surpassed it.

madison.iszler@express-news.net
Former GDC Technics employees, including those who worked at Port San Antonio, have reached a settlement in a class-action lawsuit that alleged they were terminated last year without 60 days notice as required by federal law.

GDC agreed to settle the dispute with roughly 230 former employees for nearly $1.4 million. Lawyers for the ex-employees stand to receive a third of the settlement, plus expenses, meaning ex-employees will get about $3,900 each if its approved.

Lawyers for both sides filed a joint motion Monday with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in San Antonio seeking preliminary approval of the settlement, calling it fair, reasonable and adequate.

GDC filed for bankruptcy April 26, 2021, after a dispute with the Boeing Co. over work outfitting two Air Force One aircraft at Port San Antonio. The $3.9 billion contract was awarded to Boeing by the Defense Department in 2018.

GDC was a subcontractor on the Air Force One work until Boeing terminated the company and sued it April 7, 2021, in Tarrant County. Boeing accused GDC of missing deadlines and falling a year behind schedule.

On ExpressNews.com: Boeing modifying dozens of Air Force F-15E fighter jets with combat radar upgrades in San Antonio

After its termination, GDC laid off more than 200 workers. It later filed a counterclaim, blaming Boeings mismanagement for the work delays. GDC also accused Boeing of failing to pay outstanding amounts, which GDC said substantially caused its financial issues.

Employees allegations

The lawsuit against GDC was brought by Kingslea Stringham, a former engineer at GDCs Fort Worth facility, in bankruptcy court.

She alleged GDC violated the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act. The act requires employers instituting mass layoffs to give workers at least 60 days advance written notice of their termination. GDC failed to give notice that complied with the WARN Act, according to Stringhams suit.

She also asked the court to award her and all affected employees unpaid wages, salaries, commissions, bonuses, accrued vacation and holiday pay and retirement benefits for up to 60 days.

In addition, Stringham asked the court to certify her complaint as a class-action lawsuit.

GDC opposed the class certification, arguing it was not appropriate given individual circumstances will predominate over issues to be decided on a class-wide basis.

Specifically, GDC cited irregularities in Stringhams time records, saying it appeared she submitted false time records in violation of company policy.

Nonetheless, a bankruptcy judge certified the lawsuit as a class action in November. Two people subsequently opted out of the class.

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As representative of the class, Stringham will receive $15,000 under the proposed settlement.

S.A. VOTES Voter Guide: What to know for the Texas runoff election A breakdown of key state and local races and candidates in the May 24 primary runoff.

Were pleased

On behalf of the class, were pleased with the proposed settlement, New York attorney Rene Roupinian said in an email. It provides the class members a meaningful recovery on their WARN and accrued vacation claims, especially given the employer is in bankruptcy.

A lawyer representing GDC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The maximum settlement for WARN damages was just under $3 million, the court motion states. By settling, it adds, the class will receive substantial benefits while avoiding the risks and potential pitfalls of prolonged litigation.

In May 2021, GDC received bankruptcy court approval to assign its lease at Port San Antonio, 607 N. Frank Luke Drive, to Boeing. The assignment resolved a $1.7 million claim for unpaid rent owed to the Port Authority of San Antonio.

The Air Force One jets arent expected to be delivered for another four years.

pdanner@express-news.net
A 17-year-old violently attacked two women in an attempt to rape them, according to an arrest affidavit supporting his arrest.

Justyn Curl was arrested July 26 and charged with two counts of attempted aggravated sexual assault in connection with the separate incidents.

According to the affidavit, Curl attacked a 65-year-old woman sitting in her car on June 26 in the 11700 block of Bandera Road. Curl approached the woman and asked if she could give him a ride, and entered the vehicle through the unlocked passenger door even after the woman told him no, the affidavit said.

On ExpressNews.com: Landlord attempted to burn down Dignowity Hill apartment because tenants didn't pay rent, records show

Once inside the car, Curl pulled out a knife and placed his arm around the victim and asked her to perform a sex act on him or he would stab her, according to the affidavit.

Curl punched the woman several times before she was able to fight him off and run to a nearby gym to call police, the affidavit continued.

Curl fled the scene with the woman's cellphone but dropped the weapon used in the attack, according to the affidavit. The knife was part of a specific knife set that was later found at his home, officials said.

On ExpressNews.com: Black joggers suit in mistaken arrest intact, no damages awarded

On July 11 in the 8500 block of Bowens Crossing on the Northwest Side, a 71-year-old told police she was walking down the street when she noticed Curl following her. She reported to authorities that Curl then approached her and asked her to have sex with him.

When she refused, he grabbed the woman by her wrist and dragged her into a dark area, threatening to shoot her if she didn't comply, according to the affidavit. Curl physically assaulted the woman before she was able to fight him off, and he fled the scene with her cellphone, the court records say.

Investigators found surveillance footage that shows Curl following the woman and then running from the scene wearing a Spongebob Squarepants hoodie and light-colored sweatpants, according to an affidavit.

Using the "Find my iPhone" function on the second woman's phone, police said they were able to track the cellphone to the area where Curl resides.

Both women also gave similar descriptions of Curl, who was on house arrest during the attacks. During their investigation, authorities discovered that the GPS tracker on his ankle monitoring device was out of range during both incidents, the affidavit said.

Police executed a search warrant on Curl's home and found the clothing he was wearing in the surveillance footage, the women's cellphones, and the knife set associated with the one used in the first attack, according to the affidavit.

Curl's bail was set at $150,000.

taylor.pettaway@express-news.net
A Black man who alleges San Antonio police wrongly arrested him after confusing him with a domestic violence suspect cant pursue punitive damages against the city, a federal judge ruled.

Chief U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcias decision  in a lawsuit Mathias Ometu filed in 2021 against the two officers who arrested him  is based on a 2007 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that a plaintiff couldnt collect punitive damages against a municipality in a federal civil-rights suit.

Ometus suit, however, remains mostly intact after lawyers from the city moved it from state court in Bexar County to San Antonio federal court in September 2021. He can still seek compensatory damages.

Ometu, a University of Texas at San Antonio graduate and an insurance adjuster, was arrested in August 2020. Officers Richard Serna and Devin Day suspected  incorrectly  that he was involved in a nearby domestic assault. Ometu, who was jogging on the North Side during his lunch break, declined to give the officers his name, which was his right, and a struggle ensued.

A witness later told officers that Ometu was not the suspect. Another man was later arrested for the domestic violence incident.

Ometu was charged with resisting arrest, but the charge was later dismissed.

The case generated international headlines amid claims of racial injustice.

Ometus lawsuit alleges that Serna and Day used excessive force and performed an unlawful arrest, violating Ometus constitutional rights.

Mathias Ometu did not pose an immediate threat to the safety of officers, the lawsuit states, adding that the officers had no probable cause to suspect that a crime was being committed or that his conduct during arrest was unreasonable.

Ometus lawsuit also named police Chief William McManus as a defendant, alleging that he failed to supervise, screen, discipline, transfer, counsel or otherwise control the officers.

San Antonio Police Department

However, in addition to allowing Ometu to seek punitive damages, Garcia dismissed McManus from the lawsuit. The judge granted a motion by the city arguing that Texas law precludes suits against both a governmental entity and its employees when both actions involve the same subject matter.

It is unclear from the Complaint whether Mr. Ometu is suing Chief McManus in his official capacity, his individual capacity, or both, Garcia wrote. Because the City is already a party to this lawsuit, any official-capacity claims against Chief McManus are duplicative of those against the City.

In a motion to dismiss filed in October, the citys lawyers claimed Ometus lawsuit fails to demonstrate a pattern of instances where failure to screen, train, supervise, or discipline was the moving force to the constitutional violations and instead relies on one isolated incident.

guillermo.contreras@express-news.net | Twitte: @gmaninfedland
San Antonio Animal Services

These little piggies didnt go to the market, didnt have roast beef, and definitely didnt cry, Wee, wee, wee! all the way home. But after being found wandering the streets of San Antonio earlier this week, they did take a ride in the back of an animal control vehicle.

And, now under the watch of Animal Care Services, Ludwig and Kings adventure will come to an end soon as officials identify a rescue partner who can care for them permanently.
The U.S. war machine interrupted Jose Tovars Call of Duty battle.

The 19-year-old was playing the wildly popular video game  which plunges players into battle zones, usually dark and complex  when he felt his couch shake and heard the rumble of a low-flying helicopter on Monday night.

Tovar went outside his Hays Street home on the near East Side to see two helicopters flying in the distance. Not long afterward, at 9:45 p.m., the sound of two explosions erupted near the Alamodome, followed a few minutes later by six gunshots.

The jarring spectacle was part of a training operation conducted by the U.S. Army Special Operations Command. Army officials have said the night-time exercises will take place in various locations around San Antonio through Friday.

San Antonians  including City Council members  got short notice of the operation. The city didnt announce it until late Sunday, when Police Chief William McManus said in a statement that residents may hear low-flying helicopters, simulated gunfire and controlled explosions during periods of darkness in the days ahead.

While Army officials say theyve been notifying neighborhoods near planned training sites in advance, many residents were caught off-guard when the operation commenced Monday night.

Nextdoor, the social-networking platform for neighborhoods, lit up as people reported what theyd seen and heard of the urban-warfare exercises.

In one post, Michelle Morgan asked her neighbors why military helicopters were crossing over Dignowity Hill, their near East Side neighborhood. Several assured her it was just a military training exercise, but one Nextdoor poster said hed reported the helicopters to the police.

He warned his neighbors: Beware: The Exercise is not Military. Lock your Doors. And be vigilant.

On TikTok, a resident who lives south of downtown said helicopters passed over her house three times, rattling the windows.

Tovar said he didnt know about the operation beforehand. He looked up information on it after he saw the helicopters over his neighborhood and received text messages from friends about the ruckus.

Jerry Lara, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

I kind of like them being here because San Antonio is the Military City, he said as he and his girlfriend walked their dog on the Hays Street Bridge on the near East Side.

Zero Dark 210

Eight helicopters were spotted flying in a line from the Northwest Side to the Alamodome. Several landed and then quickly took off again. Four appeared to be UH-60 Black Hawks, and the other four MH-6M Little Bird helicopters. The Little Birds flashed green lights as they flew in.

The Army Special Operations Command conducted an exercise inside the Alamodome. Helicopters transported troops to the arena, landing in the arenas parking lot  with all overhead and ground lighting turned off.

The operation will run from about 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. daily through Friday, according to Maj. Mike Burns, a spokesman for the Fort-Bragg, N.C.-based command.

It will involve roughly 100 soldiers, including support personnel, using an unspecified number of Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook and Little Bird helicopters.

On ExpressNews.com: Mayor Ron Nirenberg got 3-day notice that Army would train in San Antonio starting Monday

The exercises put some of District 1 Councilman Mario Bravos constituents on edge Monday night.

Bravo, who represents downtown and a swath of the North Side, said his office received a few calls the next morning about the disruptions. The callers felt more at ease when Bravos staff told them about the military exercises, he added.

Jerry Lara, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

He wasnt thrilled learning about the operation less than 24 hours before it started, saying, I would have liked to have known more about it so that I could prepare.

District 2 Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, who represents East Side neighborhoods near the Alamodome, said his office didn't hear much from residents.

"I do wish we were given more advanced notice, so we could coordinate and conduct community outreach sooner," he said.

On Tuesday afternoon  just hours ahead of the second night of exercises  the city of San Antonio left recorded messages on some residents phones warning them that the military could be training  loudly  near their homes this week after dark.

People who sign up for alerts from the San Antonio Police Department and the AlertSA Program notification systems also received notices about the operation.

In an email Tuesday afternoon, Assistant City Manager Jeff Coyle told Mayor Ron Nirenberg and City Council members that no residents had called the citys 311 call center about the training, and SAPD dispatchers had taken no such calls to 911 or the departments non-emergency line.

Staff writers Sig Christenson and Megan Stringer contributed to this article.

megan.rodriguez@express-news.net
Ex-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev claims that the failing western powers want to end Moscow once and for all because its uni-polar world is threatened. He cited Ukraine and Georgia as the pawns of America and its allies working in the shows to replace Russian leaders with their puppets.

The US and Its Allies

In an interview with TASS on Monday, Medvedev accused Western countries of launching an aggressive geopolitical campaign to delegitimize Russia through their schemes.

He questioned whether there was any connection between the 2008 battle between Russia and Georgia and the current proxy war in Ukraine, where Zelensky is the main puppet of the west.

The former Russian leader responded that they were involved in numerous West-sponsored plots to weaken the Kremlin, but they were unsuccessful, reported RT.

He cited a single process and plan whose objective was to cause Russia's downfall. Its key promoters are the western powers. He said the nations opposed to Russia are utilizing its neighbors near the border.

The former Russian leader, who presided over his country from 2008 to 2012, currently serves as the National Security Council's deputy chairman.

US Constantly Taunts Moscow

In the Georgian conflict that started in 2008, the forces of Tbilisi initiated attacks in a disputed region of South Ossetia and killed several Russian peacekeepers and civilians as the manipulations of now failing western powers.

Ex-Russian president Medvedev stated that Washington was heavily involved on the sidelines, with US personnel training and funding the Georgian Army.

He also encouraged then-Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili to blitz and assault the area's defenseless civilian population, citing Fars News.

Read Also: Donald Trump Net Worth 2022: Did Trump Get Richer Since Leaving the US Presidency?

Then he added that the Biden administration had followed the same strategy, which had resulted in a stunning loss of Kabul the previous year.

Medvedev thought what the US was doing in Ukraine was provocative and illegal. The European Union has since shrunk from its former essence and capitulated to every White House whim.

Although the aggressive and Russophobia activities result from a protracted geopolitical process by western nations, he underlined the same ultimate objective of eliminating Russia by all means.

NATO Should Stop Its Game

Russia is intended to be forever hemmed in by NATO's effort to box it in by encircling it with every country.

He continued by saying that the US-led bloc will never admit Georgians or Ukrainians to its exclusive club and that it only makes sane people gag.

It is more economical for them to engage Russia in territorial disputes by using nations like Georgia or Ukraine as puppets. It is preferable to deploy expendable forces rather than one's own.

Medvedev remarked it would be enormously costly, and Ukraine nor Tbilisi could ever taste NATO or EU membership.

He added that the unshaven guy, wearing a ratty green shirt in Kyiv, knows the real score.

The Kremlin acknowledged the Donbass republics as independent states in February 2022, and Ukraine is required to formally declare its neutrality and reluctance to ally with any Western defense pact. Kyiv maintains that there was no cause for the Russian offensive.

Medvedev assured that failing western powers in their attempts via proxy wars and geopolitical gimmicks would not faze Moscow. Through sanctions, Russia endures while the west bites the dust literally.

Related Article: Former Russian President Medvedev Says BRICS Can Create Reserve Currency To Support Its Members

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UVALDE  The Uvalde school districts board, in a meeting called to brief parents on how it would make campuses safer and prepare for the social and emotional needs of staff and students, was blistered for almost two hours by angry denunciations of district leadership.

Some slammed the district for its handling of now-suspended police chief Pedro Pete Arredondo, the incident commander nominally in charge of the disastrous law-enforcement response to the Robb Elementary mass shooting on May 24 that killed 19 children and two teachers.

Some criticized other officers on the scene that day, as well as a former Robb principal who was reinstated three days after her suspension.

At the heart of the criticism  some of it sharp and personal  was the belief that the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District had broken the trust of parents, teachers and students. The superintendent, Hal Harrell, conceded as much.

Absolutely, he said when asked after Mondays meeting if the district had lost the publics faith. Were all in a state of shock still, and trust has been crippled. It really has, and were going to have to build that back.

During the meeting, he listed a series of measures  33 new police officers, hundreds of security cameras, campus monitors with iPads wholl constantly walk the grounds and check doors, and the availability of a virtual learning option for parents who dont want their children back in a classroom when school starts Sept. 6.

Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

Weve had a good number of applicants for the campus monitor jobs that likely will start in the next few days, Harrell told the crowd.

One man with three sons at his side said he had asked for action and accountability the last time he spoke to trustees  and they had delivered by putting up new fencing at Dalton Elementary. But the district hasnt been able to stop students from fighting in school restrooms or selling drugs on campus, he said.

What are you doing? he said about the fighting, pausing for an answer before striking the lectern. Im asking you, what are you doing?

Harrell said the monitors and new cameras would help, and suggested that students report it when they see something.

They can text somebody anonymously so they can help us find and intervene as soon as possible, he said.

Others were more critical of efforts to prevent another shooting and the districts failure to discipline anyone who was at Robb Elementary the day of the shooting besides Arredondo.

Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

A few of the speakers reacted to Harrells disclosure last week that the district had reinstated Mandy Gutierrez, the former principal at Robb, and given her a new administrative job. That renewed the debate over her level of responsibility for security failures that possibly made it easier for the shooter  Salvador Ramos, 18, of Uvalde  to gain access to the campus.

She was suspended with pay July 25 following a Texas House committee report on the shooting. Harrell then reinstated her July 28 after she responded in writing to the committee report, disputing some of its findings. On Friday, Harrell announced Gutierrez will be the districts assistant director of special education.

Robb Elementary has been closed, and will be demolished and replaced.

She cant be principal of Robb because it isnt reopening, Ricardo Cedillo, a San Antonio lawyer representing Gutierrez, said via email. She is still employed in an administrative position. She hopes and plans on being a principal again, but (the district) has always had the option to assign her to a position that meets its needs.

The district has posted a video of the superintendent giving updates on security, including installation of tall fencing around Uvalde schools, but he did not mention the latest personnel changes.

Some in Mondays crowd did, with Arredondo the main concern raised by more than two dozen people who signed up to address the board. Some were angry he hasnt been fired. Board members replied that he must receive due process.

Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

The district suspended Arredondo days after the shooting and Harrell has recommended he be fired.

What has happened from May 24 to right now? Has anybody lost their job? Pastor Daniel Myers asked.

Just the recommendation for the termination of the chief, Harrell said.

The failure of police on May 24 is completely unacceptable, said Diana Olvedo-Karau, 63, of Uvalde. That is why we keep coming back, meeting after meeting after meeting, and we keep asking the same question because we have yet  almost three months later  to hear any answers or to see any accountability from anybody at any level, from law enforcement officers to campus staff to central office and beyond.

With her daughter Mehle, 9, standing at her side, Tina Quintanilla-Taylor, 41, said, I will be at every one of these meetings saying, Do better.

Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

Adam Martinez asked who would be at the top of the chain of command in the districts multihazard emergency plan, prompting Harrell to say the issue had not been settled. He said the district would review the document Friday with the Texas Department of Public Safety and Uvalde police.

So you dont know whos going to be in charge if this happens again right now? Martinez asked.

Harrell said at this moment officers could respond to an emergency, and on Friday that will be further vetted out.

Jesse Rizo, 51, of Uvalde, asked about Arredondos employment history, and specifically who hired him.

Its like you missed - like, you didnt check a reference or something, Rizo said.

On ExpressNews.com: He was difficult  Uvalde school police chief demoted years before the massacre

I made the recommendation to the school board to hire Pete Arredondo, Harrell replied.

And did you check, did you call his former employer? Rizo asked.

Yes, Harrell replied.

And they didnt disclose anything to you?

No.

Others raised specific questions about efforts to tighten security in time for the new academic year.

I listened to them, I took into consideration what they were saying, because God knows we will continue to be active in building confidence back in, Harrell said in an interview after the meeting. Weve got to listen to them and make those changes.

Were going to have to work together, and not just one person but all of us, he added.

The House committees report criticized security at the school before and during the shooting. But Gutierrez disputed its findings that a culture of complacency had taken root at the school. She said the lock on the door to the fourth-grade classroom where the shooting happened was working when a custodian checked it the night before.

The report put most of the blame on the paralysis of local, state and federal law enforcement. Officers took more than an hour to enter the classroom and kill Ramos, and video showing them milling in the hallway while the gunman continued to shoot has spread outrage far beyond Arredondo.

Last month, Arredondo resigned from the Uvalde City Council, to which he had been elected several weeks before the massacre.

Myers, the pastor, cited an article about Arredondos demotion during his service with the Webb County Sheriffs Office.

So the person that youre going to be interviewing, whatever is involved for the new chief, I hope you scrutinize this person to the max, because the last one we had, he dropped the ball, he did not take care of our children, Myers said.

Staff writer Guillermo Contreras contributed to this report.

sigc@express-news.net
Some San Antoninas got a respite from the relentless summer heat on Monday when a wet microburst passed through the area.

A wet microburst is a thunderstorm that, without enough wind shear in the mid-to-upper levels of the atmosphere, collapses in on itself, according to Brandon Gale, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. That causes rain to fall to the surface as the sudden downburst kills off the thunderstorm.

The microburst on Monday affected only a small area of San Antonio.

"It's very easy for these thunderstorms to collapse, so when the updrafts and thunderstorms go up, they fall down to the surface where they don't really last a long time," Gale said. "Even very close by, they may experience nothing."

Today's rain chances are low, but they will rise through Thursday, when there is a 30 to 40 percent chance of rain across South Central Texas.

There is another potential for rain on Saturday.

On ExpressNews.com: Wilson County fire marshal, on the job 25 years, says wildfire threat is off the chart

"Best chances are Thursday and Friday, and there's a chance for rain on Saturday as well," Gale said. "There are a few days coming up where San Antonio could see some rain."

During the summertime in the southern United States, wet microbursts can be pretty common, Gale said. In the southern U.S., there is not a lot of wind shear in the summer months; most of it is in the northern part of the country, and without that shear, the southern U.S. experiences a lot of "pulsing, collapsing storms," Gale said.

Thunderstorms need wind shear in the mid and upper levels of the atmosphere in order to survive and become more severe, long-lived storms, according to Gale. Wind shear pushes the thunderstorm off into the distance, and the air is kept from collapsing because it has somewhere to go. In the case of wet microbursts, the air doesn't have anywhere to go due to the lack of wind shear.

On ExpressNews.com: The Tower of the Americas was built with a massive design flaw

There is another type of microburst, Gale said, called a dry microburst, although that type is not as common, especially in the southern U.S. In parts of the country where there's not as much moisture, dry microbursts cause strong winds without the same brief period of really heavy rain.

According to drought.gov, a new website from the federal government tracking drought conditions, more than 1.7 million people in Bexar County are currently affected by drought conditions. In addition, 2022 is the fourth-driest year-to-date in the past 128 years.

shepard.price@express-news.net | @shepardgprice
Its past time for responsible gun owners to speak out against assault weapons and call for a ban. These killing machines do not belong in public places in the hands of untrained civilians and kids who cant even buy beer.

Im no liberal. Ive voted Republican my whole life and was a National Rifle Association member for more than 50 years until the massacre at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. I have a 10-year-old granddaughter who was in her fourth grade classroom in San Antonio on May 24, just 80 miles from Uvalde. Its too close to home, and Im tired of seeing nothing done in the 10 years since the Sandy Hook Elementary shooting. Since then, mass shootings have nearly tripled.

Ive long thought assault weapons were just a toy to so many people looking for the next shiny object. No reasonable gun owner uses them to hunt. Their sole purpose is to slaughter humans.

Ive owned 26 acres in Medina County for nearly 50 years; Ive been a gun owner and sportsman for longer. Im a native Texan and U.S. Navy veteran. I take great pride in my state and my country, but Ive seen some changes over time with the NRA.

Uvalde Strong for Gun Safety: Hondo vote a win for families of Uvalde

When I first became involved with the NRA in the 1960s, it was an organization for outdoorsmen and hunters like me. Over the years, it started morphing into something different  more akin to a lobbying arm for gun manufacturers. All the NRA wanted was money to help elect politicians and pass wild laws. They bombarded my mailbox. The messaging was strong and simple: They were coming for my guns and good guys with guns stop bad guys.

No one has ever come for my guns, despite what the NRA has told me for the past 30 years. I still have all of them  maybe 10 or so. I also now know its rare for an armed civilian to stop a mass shooting.

Look around you  we have insane laws that make it permissible to walk around publicly openly carrying guns without any training or licensing. The NRA is the best marketing department. Thats why manufacturers of assault weapons brought in more than $1 billion in sales since Sandy Hook.

The guns in public places today being carried by untrained civilians are creating war zones. Kids are now more likely to be killed from gun violence than car accidents.

The Second Amendment was written in a time of muskets and pistols that fired maybe three to four rounds a minute. Im heartbroken as a father, grandfather and responsible gun owner that the Second Amendment has been perverted to the extent that it has where our elected officials allow these war weapons on our streets. This needs to change.

My hope is that other gun owners, regardless of political affiliation, will break down the political walls and see the truth  money in politics is the root of evil. Its time for responsible gun owners to lead the way for reasonable gun reforms. That will truly make me proud to be an American and Texan, and leave this world a little safer for my granddaughter.

Bernie Phillip is a native Texan, veteran, and hunter for more than 60 years. His career at Kelly AFB spanned more than three decades. He served four years in the U.S. Navy.
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There has not been a good day for Uvalde families since May 24, when a gunman murdered 19 children and two teachers at Robb Elementary School.

And while the Aug. 1 decision in Hondo to nix a National Rifle Association-affiliated event there doesnt qualify as a good day, it does count as a win for grieving families. Their advocacy made a difference, leading the Hondo City Council, by a 4-1 vote, to revoke a city rental hall agreement with the Medina Area Friends of NRA, which planned to hold a fundraiser there.
Its difficult to imagine another school board as ineffective as the one at South San Independent School District. But despite some recent rocky news, we have hope the board can shake its decades-long dysfunction.

At an Aug. 1 meeting, trustees voted unanimously to name Henry Yzaguirre, the interim superintendent, the lone finalist for superintendent.

Setting the district on the right path will be a big job, but Yzaguirre and two new board members could signal a South San reboot.

It cant come soon enough. What an embarrassment when too few trustees showed up  virtually or in person  to meetings in July, causing two to be canceled for a lack of quorum and delaying the boards important work.

At the July 26 meeting, the board appointed two replacements for trustees who recently resigned, Connie Prado and Gilbert Rodriguez. But as the agenda item to appoint Prados replacement was read, Rodriguez walked out without saying a word.

The sound of the door slamming  he literally walked out on students  was painful.

On ExpressNews.com: South San Antonio ISD board appointed 2 new trustees and got a lot done  maybe

It didnt end there. His exit casts doubt on whether one of the new board members was properly appointed.

Abe Saavedra, who was named by the Texas Education Agency to monitor the board, has sought guidance from TEA on whether Rodriguez had to be at the dais during the board meeting to meet quorum.

The districts legal counsel determined that since Rodriguez was still in the room, the board had a quorum. Saavedra hasnt heard back from TEA, but we hope it agrees with South Sans legal counsel. The alternative  to void all board actions following Rodriguezs walkout  would set the board back.

Rodriguez has said he verbally rescinded his resignation. Its clear his hearts not in the job. Thankfully, South Sans legal counsel determined his letter became effective seven days after he submitted it.

On ExpressNews.com: Editorial: So long, Prado; anyone else at South San care to join her?

Saavedra said in his 10 months as a TEA monitor, the board has mostly spent its time on political issues. He urged the board to refocus on students and not get derailed on political stuff. Hes trying to be optimistic.

Were crossing our fingers that this South San ISD board will finally show up for students. Its simple: Put the kids first.
MONDAY, Aug. 8, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Women who go into menopause when they are younger than 40 are at greater risk of heart problems, reports a new Korean study of more than 1.4 million females.

Women with premature menopause had an overall 33% higher risk of heart failure and 9% higher risk of an irregular heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation) compared to women who experienced normal menopause, even after accounting for other risk factors, researchers reported Aug. 3 in the European Heart Journal.

Heart health risks increased as women experienced menopause earlier in life, compared to those who went into menopause after 50:

Risk of heart failure was 39% higher among women who entered menopause younger than 40, 23% higher for women 40 to 44, and 11% higher for women 45 to 49.

Risk of atrial fibrillation was 11% higher for women younger than 40, 10% higher for women 40 to 44, and 4% higher for women 45 to 49.

Premature menopause affects 1% of women younger than 40, the researchers said in background notes.

Women with premature menopause should be aware that they may be more likely to develop heart failure or atrial fibrillation than their peers, study author Dr. Ga Eun Nam, of Korea University College of Medicine, in Seoul, said in a news release from the European Society of Cardiology. This may be good motivation to improve lifestyle habits known to be linked with heart disease, such as quitting smoking and exercising.

The researchers based the study on data from the Korean National Health Insurance System. Out of 1.4 million postmenopausal women tracked between 2009 and 2018, more than 28,000 went through premature menopause.

More information

The U.S. Office on Womens Health has more about the health effects of menopause.

SOURCE: European Society of Cardiology, news release, Aug. 3, 2022
Holstein sire Genosource Captain has held the number one position he regained earlier this year in the young, genomic sire ranking, published today (9 August) by AHDB Dairy.

He affirms his place by smashing the 1,000 barrier for Profitable Lifetime Index (PLI), achieving a comfortable lead over two of his sons, which join their sire to take the top three places.

The high production Captain improves his PLI to 1,014, thanks to small improvements across the board, most notably for Calf Survival (CS).

With a CS of 5.8, thanks to the addition of new UK data, he becomes one of the breed leaders for this trait.

His index of 4.9 for EnviroCow, also tops the breed for green credentials, aided by excellent transmission of feed conversion efficiency (Feed Advantage 257).

The Captain son (out of a Redrock dam) in second place is the new entry, DG Peace (PLI 962), whose transmitting pattern is similar to that of his sire, with high Predicted Transmitting Abilities (PTAs) for milk (1,025kg) and protein (41kg).

And moving up the ranking to third place is Cogent Koepon Rocky (PLI 959), a UK-bred Captain son from a Kenobi dam.

Each of the top three sires scores well for resistance to digital dermatitis, helping them achieve above average scores for Lameness Advantage.

The next six places are taken by new entrants since the previously published genetic evaluations in April, and leading the pack is Denovo 17835 Lennon-P.

This Mendel son transmits high daughter Lifespan Index (+162 days) and strong daughter Fertility Index (FI 13.6), helping to earn him one of the highest indexes for HealthyCow, at 315.

In fifth position, Peak AltaSeverus (by Peak AltaPlinko) is another high fertility bull (FI 15.3) with strong lifespan (LS 156) who is also predicted to transmit shorter than average gestation length at -3 days.

Sixth placed CherryPenCol HighCloud (by Peak AltaZazzle) is a high fat transmitter (54.2kg) with a very favourable Lameness Advantage of 3.7, while seventh and eighth position are taken by two full brothers  Pine-Tree Denovo Aleo (PLI 946) and Pine-Tree Denovo Avon (PLI 922).

Both are by Aladdin out of the same Legacy dam and offer very high fat transmission for both weight (56.7kg and 59.6kg fat) and percentage (0.34% and 0.37% respectively).

They also score well for Maintenance Index at -26 and -25. For Feed Advantage, Avon has the edge at 263, making him one of the best Feed Advantage sires of the breed.

In ninth place is the final new entry to the top 10 in the shape of Cookiecutter Holysmokes (PLI 915). This son of AOT Highjump is the highest type transmitter in the top 20, with a Type Merit of 1.70.

Rounding off the top 10 is the Denovo 15953 Chalet son, Denovo 3709 Charter (PLI 912), with good fat transmitting abilities.

Five other bulls which feature in the top 20 are newcomers since the April evaluations. These are Bomaz Waterloo (PLI 906), Peak AltaLinguist (PLI 902), Denovo 17885 Aster (PLI 886), Bomaz Watson (PLI 885) and Peak AltaZeolite (PLI 882).

This revised top 20 gives Holstein producers plenty of scope to add new sires to their breeding strategy, with the usual caution advised to ensure theres a divergence of bloodlines chosen amongst so many previously unknown names.

Its important to take steps to ensure genetic diversity as so many previously unknown sires enter the market and its no longer realistic for most to memorise each of their pedigrees, said Marco Winters, AHDB head of animal genetics.

Wed strongly recommend the use of a computer breeding program, such as our own Inbreeding Checker included in AHDBs Herd Genetic Report.

"This will ensure a proposed mating does not narrow bloodlines unduly but with this proviso  and the need to spread risk by using a team of young sires rather than focussing heavily on individuals  theres a wealth of genetic improvement to be made from these high PLI sires."

He added: All of the leading group and many more have exceptional health, environmental and efficiency credentials, all of which will help breeders improve the welfare, sustainability and profitability of their herds."
A project to facilitate more planting of the perennial bioenergy crop Miscanthus has been awarded over 3.3 million in government funding.

The project, spearheaded by Miscanthus specialist Terravesta, will deliver improvements on the crop's entire establishment process in the UK.

It will look at approaches to producing planting material, field preparation, innovative agri-tech, new planting techniques and technologies to monitor establishment in the field.

The project has received funding through the second phase of the governments Biomass Feedstocks Innovation Programme, to contribute to 2050 net zero targets.

The Climate Change Committee states that to reach net zero, 700,000 hectares of bioenergy crops need to be planted by 2050  thats 30,000 hectares a year starting in 2030.

Terravestas science and technology director, Dr Michael Squance, says that Miscanthus is important for the UK to reach environmental targets.

The first dedicated, peer reviewed study into Miscanthus life cycles shows that the above ground biomass grows annually and recycles all the carbon thats been produced through planting, harvesting, and burning the crop for renewable electricity.

"And at the same time, the underground rhizome and decaying leaf litter fixes and stores net 0.64 tonnes of carbon (2.35 tonnes CO2e) per hectare, each year as it grows, he said.

Phase 1 of the project saw analysis of field preparation, machinery, technology and planting techniques to identify areas which can deliver gains, efficiency and cost reduction.

The second phase commenced in mid-2022, with hopes of improving Miscanthus planting and establishment.

Dr Jason Kam, Terravestas head of R&D, said there were four areas of focus, the first of which being planting material production preparation.

"[This] will improve on the quality of the rhizomes when they come out of the nursery, look at Miscanthus seed development, and test biological treatments and crop nutrition to help the plants to grow better.

The second focus area is site preparation, where we will look at retaining moisture, reducing tillage and improving soil health," he explained.

Streamlining planting processes is an exciting part of the project, where agri-tech will be used to plant more crops in a shorter space of time.

And lastly, establishment monitoring will test drone agronomy, remote sensing and data capture, to improve crop performance."
After a New Orleans lady reportedly stabbed the two kids repeatedly on Sunday, a 4-year-old daughter died and a 2-year-old is in serious condition.

According to the New Orleans Police Department, Janee Pedescleaux, 31, is charged with second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, and second-degree cruelty to a youngster.

Mom Stabs 2 Toddlers

The stabbings occurred inside Pedescleaux's house, and neighbors claim she posted a video on Instagram immediately thereafter. Jermaine Roberts, the father, learned about the event quickly, and surveillance footage shows him coming up to the house and running inside from his truck. He then leaves the house with both kids, intending to take them to the hospital.

Roberts and Pedescleaux were fighting for custody of their children. Roberts allegedly filed a complaint, claiming Pedescleaux was not stable and incapable of providing a healthy environment for the kids.

Police were called to the residence in the Florida neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana, shortly after 11 am on Sunday. The youngsters had already been transported to a hospital in a private vehicle at the time. The youngster was in serious condition on Sunday afternoon. The daughter, identified as Paris Roberts by family members, died in the hospital.

Investigators believe Pedescleaux is the lady in a video published on the social media site earlier that day, according to NOLA. The video has since been removed. Pedescleaux is seen in the video looking at the camera while wearing a hat and a blood-stained tank top.

"I'm done," she says in the video, clearly upset. "My children are no longer alive. I'm finished. I'm through with life," according to Fox News

Read Also: Jury Orders Alex Jones To Pay $4 Million in Damages After Conspiracy Theory Over Sandy Hook Attack

New Orleans Dad Rush To Rescue His Children

Jermaine broke in via a window and exited minutes later with the children, rushing them to the hospital. Paris, his four-year-old daughter, died as a result of her injuries while his two-year-old son was critically injured.

Janee Pedescleaux, who was with the children and is registered as a guardian, had posted a blood-splattered video on Facebook claiming she had murdered them. Jermaine was seen pulling up in his white pickup from an adjacent property before jumping out and running over to the residence in the city's Florida neighborhood.

He is claimed to have stormed out of the house with the daughter in his arms and the boy trailing behind them. The distraught father crammed them into his pickup and drove them to the hospital, where his daughter unfortunately died and his son was in serious condition.

Pedescleaux had already released a crazy video of himself ranting at the camera on Facebook following the severe incident. The camera is thought to have alerted him to the tragedy, prompting him to rush over and try to save them.

Pedescleaux, who resides in New Orleans' Florida area, first shared the strange tape on her Facebook page before it was pulled down. She is shown covered in her children's blood while she tapes herself wailing and yelling. On Sunday afternoon, Pedescleaux was booked into Orleans Justice Center, Daily Mail reported.

Related Article: Lake Mead Dead Bodies: New Human Remains Found, But Police Fear There's More as Water Level Recedes

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A simple, rapid test to identify the most economically damaging disease in the UK for oilseed rape will be available to buy from September.

Microgenetics says it has created the fastest and most accurate test on the market for light leaf spot, which can cause losses in yield of up to 30%.

This translates to a huge 80 million loss for the UK economy every year, the company says.

SwiftDetect has been extensively trialled with excellent results and will be available from 12 September with a one business-day turnaround.

Before SwiftDetect, it was impossible to identify the best time to apply fungicide as once signs of light leaf spot are visible, they arent as effective, says Chris Steele, of Microgenetics.

SwiftDetect will provide farmers with the means to identify the golden window of opportunity when fungicides will be at their most effective.

As SwiftDetect can detect light leaf spot before symptoms are visible, it will optimise fungicide efficacy, delay costly fungicide applications in low detection fields and target applications to specific fields with high and early pathogen detection.

"This can potentially reduce overall cost and minimise crop protection use," Mr Steele says.

Trials conducted with Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) and the AD4PT Group in Nottinghamshire monitored several oil seed rape varieties with different resistance scores, with some surprising results.

Andrew Hartley, arable technical manager for DSV UK Ltd, was involved with the trials and says that using SwiftDetect to identify when disease is not present is as valuable as when it is.

The hardest decision in agriculture is always not to do something, Mr Hartley explains.

Many farmers, myself included, have been guilty of spraying crops on a predetermined particular calendar date, with sometimes little knowledge of whether or not disease is in the plant.

If you have information that definitely tells you theres no disease, then the likelihood is you wouldnt spray for that disease, which would save you time and money, and would be better for the environment.

Mr Hartley believes that in the future, farmers could need to provide justification for applying fungicides to a government heavily invested in a more environmental approach to farming.

I think farmers will have to justify why theyve sprayed something in the future and what theyve sprayed for, he says.

One day, its very likely that conducting these tests will become part of general farming practice.

Rainfall is currently used by many as a way of predicting the likelihood of light leaf spot occurring, but data from the trials revealed that this isnt a reliable means of forecasting.

The trials revealed a positive link between rainfall and light leaf spot detection. However, none was found in one variety, Dart, despite high levels of rain, says Mr Steele.

Favourable environmental conditions do not guarantee disease presence, which is why SwiftDetect will prove an invaluable tool.

Mr Steele adds that SwiftDetect could also help farmers and agronomists select varieties more accurately.

Despite the resistance score of Crossfit and Duplo both being 5, a significant difference in pathogen load was evident between the two, he says.

This suggests that SwiftDetect could be used to assess variety resistance more accurately, helping agronomists and farmers make informed and up-to-date decisions.

SwiftDetect is being adapted to test for other devastating diseases. Trials are already underway for Phoma, which will be the second test for oilseed rape.
The role of cutting-edge green innovation in the dairy sector has been showcased to Scotlands Business Minister during a visit to Dumfries and Galloway.

In a tour of the Scotlands Rural College (SRUC) Barony Campus, Ivan McKee MSP was given an update on the Digital Dairy Chain, officially launched earlier this summer.

Professor Richard Dewhurst explained how the 21m project, funded by the UK government, would create jobs and boost the economy of south west Scotland and Cumbria.

The digital dairy project aims to create 600 new jobs, and is expected to generate an additional 60m a year for a region which produces nearly two billion litres of milk a year.

As well as helping to decarbonise the dairy industry, the project will help to develop and retain a skilled workforce in the area to create new products and new ways of working.

During the MSP's visit, Rachael Wakefield from Censis, one of the project partners, demonstrated the companys advanced sensor technology for the dairy sector.

In a tour organised by South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), the Minister was also given the lowdown on the Dairy Nexus.

This is a planned 8m facility jointly funded by the UK and Scottish governments as part of the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, which aims to decarbonise the dairy sector.

Mr McKee hailed the project for spearheading advanced, sustainable dairy production in Scotland, in turn supporting the country's emissions targets.

The Scottish governments Borderlands Deal supports the Barony Campus' ambition to be a world-renowned centre for low carbon innovation ensuring Scotland transitions towards a net zero future, with all regions achieving their potential.

Prof Powell added the dairy project was 'hugely exciting and transformational' for the college and Scotland as a whole.

"Innovation is vital if Scotland is to meet targets on net zero and job creation," he said.

"Projects like the Digital Dairy Chain and Dairy Nexus are outstanding examples of how SRUC is helping to lead the way in the green economic recovery.
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On Sunday, a 450-kg World War II bomb exploded in northern Italy, causing widespread panic. The event occurred along the Po River in Mantua, around 160 kilometers southeast of Milan.

Local police promptly initiated an evacuation operation to evacuate almost 3,000 people from the Borgo Virgilio area. The evacuation was done as a precaution before the controlled neutralizing of the WWII-era weapon.

Italy Detonates World War II Bomb

The bomb exploded under observation on Sunday afternoon near Borgo Virgilio hamlet, roughly 45 kilometers from human settlements.

Skilled military officers took the detonator from the device and placed it in a cave near the discovery location. They later dispersed the 450 kg explosive device made in the United States. The aforementioned explosion was part of the normal spread of WWII-era bombs that occurred throughout Europe.

The 450-kg bomb was discovered on July 25 in the low-flowing Po river, which is suffering from severe drought. The device was discovered by a fisherman on the banks of the Po River owing to a drop in water levels caused by the drought, Colonel Marco Nasi told DPA, Republic World reported.

The fuse from the explosive device was removed by bomb disposal experts. The bomb squad then loaded the bomb onto a truck and drove it 30 miles to an abandoned quarry in the Medole municipality, where it was placed inside a 19-foot-deep hole dug out for that purpose and then blown up, according to the Italian newspaper Corriere Della Sera.

The entire process began at 9 am till 5:00 pm local time, which includes the time it took to secure the device, remove it from the river, and detonate it. Last month, Italy declared a state of emergency in districts near the Po, the country's longest river. It contributes for nearly one-third of Italy's agricultural output and is in decline, according to the New York Post.

Read Also: North Korea Offers 100,000 Additional Troops to Russia To Help Defeat Ukraine, Russian Media Confirms

Europe Suffers Drought Due to Severe Heatwaves

CNN reported the heatwaves that have swept Europe this summer have delivered more than just record high temperatures and burned fields: the drought-stricken waters of Italy's Po River have run so low that a previously submerged World War II bomb has been discovered.

The bomb, which was developed by the United States during WWII, was discovered in the Po river in the town of Borgo Virgilio, close to Mantua Unprecedented heatwaves across Europe produced a drought, resulting in water levels low enough to show the device on July 25.

According to the publication, the device weighed 1,000 pounds in total and contained 530 pounds of explosives. The find made last month was not the first of its sort. A WWII bomb burst in Munich, Germany, in December 2021, and two additional unexploded WWII explosives were discovered in Hong Kong in 2018.

The Po is Italy's longest river, running from the country's Alps to the Adriatic Sea. The river supports almost one-third of the country's agriculture. Because of the drought, Italian officials declared a state of emergency on the river last month, as per Washington Examiner via MSN.

Related Article: Reports Assert Only 30% of Western Weapons Reach Ukrainian Troops, Most Sold in the Black Market

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Amitha Madan

Principal designer & partner at Magari

A winemaker who works with kiwi farmers in her region. A communications specialist who is creating empowering, feminist rag dolls. An adventure tour specialist who believes in local experiences. An entrepreneur who envisioned and launched an app to help everyone learn Indian languages. Another who brings traditional Maharashtrian fare to dining tables across the world. Our country is replete with visionaries who are working towards empowering local communities and artisans while educating the world about their skills and crafts. Made in India, for the world. In this special issue, we applaud these women who are putting India on the world map...When the thought of Magari came to Amitha Madan and her partners Karun Mathew and Vishal Wadhwa six years ago, India did not really have established homegrown furniture brands. Most homeowners were forced to resort to the family carpenter, or imported Italian, Chinese or Balinese furniture. As an architect, she found it difficult to find well-priced quality contemporary furniture or even someone to customise a unique design. Today, the Bengaluru-based principal designer of both Magari furniture and Treelight Design is proud that the furniture brand is about local and natural materials, and, although it also showcases global influences, its thoughtfully-designed pieces revive past traditions with local artisans even while harnessing modern technology.. We strive to stay true to each craft we choose to create our furniture. We aspire to create a memorable story starting from the designers dream to the hard work put into the process of making it by the artisan, and ending with the emotional response of the user.Inspired as we are by the deeply-rooted culture of India and as admirers of the rich history of craftsmen present here,. While visiting Mahabalipuram to source some sculptures for a hotel project in Chennai, I noticed how the skill of the craftsmen was transferred from one generation to the next, and marvelled at the pride and dedication of each person working towards their craft. It seemed almost spiritual. They inspired me to work with them to create the low seating dining set-up (pictured), which embodies an age-old tradition of sitting on the floor and eating in temples and at home.I believe we can encourage more people in the country and outside to truly invest in showcasing and celebrating Indianness by simply embracing and celebrating it ourselves.This is my advice to individuals going into design who would like to champion India:. The Indian tag in itself gives them a unique identity; use this for their benefit and yours. Take the time to understand that there is so much to gain from our heritage.
The Cambodia Travel Goods and Leather Association (CTLA), a non-profit body supporting businesses in the bag, luggage and leather manufacturing industry, was launched recently in Phnom Penh. Deputy prime minister Men Sam An told the inauguration ceremony that production and exports are by and large exhibiting positive signs across all sectors.

Growth is driving job creation, raising incomes for households and stimulating the economy, he said.

On behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia, I would like to support the establishment of this association which will act as an intermediary supporting and cooperating with the government and private institutions, both inside and outside the country, to help promote the growth of the leather and bag sector, the deputy prime minister was quoted as saying by Cambodian media reports.

The Cambodia Travel Goods and Leather Association (CTLA), a non-profit body supporting businesses in the bag, luggage and leather manufacturing industry, was launched recently in Phnom Penh. Deputy prime minister Men Sam An told the inauguration ceremony that production and exports are by and large exhibiting 'positive signs' across all sectors.#

The minister also urged the association to be active in social work and humanitarian activities and contribute to the governments effort in helping the poor, the needy and victims of natural disasters.

Four memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were also signed at the inaugural event. The first MoU was between CTLA and the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) on cooperation on promoting travel goods and leather in Cambodia. The second was between the Cambodia Footwear Association (CFA) and CCC on cooperation on promoting the footwear industry.

CTLA signed an MoU with Singapore Cambodia International Academy (SCIA), appointing the latter as a training institution for CTLA members workforce.

Under this, SCIA will collaborate with CTLA to offer training in two areastechnical training, equipping and certifying the members with skills to adhere to the standards set by the ministry of labour and vocational training and International Labour Organisation, and management training for improving factory productivity and efficiency.

The fourth MoU between CTLA and Huawei Technologies (Cambodia) Co. Ltd. was on cooperation on green and smart campus in Cambodia.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
Copenhagen Fashion Week (CPHFW) and Denmarks ministry of environment have launched a sectoral agreement within the fashion and textile industry which obliges companies to recycle and use more recycled materials by 2030. The fashion week opened today with 10 Danish clothing and textile companies and 3 organisations acknowledging the necessity to work together to significantly reduce the industry's footprint on climate through circular commitments.

The consumption of clothing and textiles is increasing in Europe, and it is estimated that an average European consumes 15kg of clothing and textiles per year. Therefore, companies, organisations and the Ministry of Environment have come together to set several common targets including that all clothing and textiles from participating Danish companies must consist of at least 40 per cent recycled material by 2030. The agreement asks for textiles and clothes to be designed for longevity and for a larger part of the turnover to come from recycled materials, CPHFW said in a media release.

"Our consumption is far too high, and it wears down the planet's scarce resources. The production of clothes and textiles is one of the most environmentally damaging industries in the world. So, we have to get away from the use-and-throw-away culture, like the fashion industry today is characterised by. It resonates in the industry and internationally when Danish textile companieslarge and smallundertake to reduce their climate and environmental footprint. Denmark must be among the leaders in the green transformation of the fashion and textile industry," said Denmarks minister of the environment Lea Wermelin.

Copenhagen Fashion Week and Denmark's ministry of environment have launched a sectoral agreement within the fashion and textile industry which obliges companies to recycle and use more recycled materials by 2030. The fashion week opened today with 10 Danish textile companies and 3 organisations acknowledging the necessity to reduce the industry's footprint.#

Maria Glsel, director of fashion company Aiayu, has been elected as the person in charge of the sector collaboration. She is happy that the industry and the ministry are collaborating on the circular restructuring because it requires both the goodwill of companies and structural changes: "It is important that we bring the industry together in a common direction, and that is why I am proud to be appointed as the front person. My wish is that we can bring industry players together for common goals and exchange experiences that lead to action.

The minister of the environment is the initiator of the sectoral cooperation, and the Lifestyle & Design Cluster will function as a secretariat with, among other things, the preparation of an action plan, data collection and servicing of the steering group. All Danish textile companies can join the goals and the sectoral cooperation.

The sector collaboration will be expanded to include Norway, Sweden and Finland from 2023.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)
A decoupling of the EU and Germany from China, which would result in retaliatory measures from the latter, would cost Germany almost six times as much as Brexit. This is the finding of a scenario analysis conducted by the ifo Institute on behalf of the Bavarian Industry Association.

De-globalisation makes us poorer. Rather than turning away from important trading partners without good reason, companies should additionally source inputs from other countries in order to reduce one-sided and critical dependencies on certain markets and authoritarian regimes, Lisandra Flach, co-author of the study, said in a press release.

Those in Germany who stand to lose the most in a trade war with China would be the automotive industry (8.47 per cent loss in value added; $8,306 million), companies producing transportation equipment (5.14 per cent; $1,529 million), and manufacturers of machinery and equipment (4.34 per cent; $5,201 million), added the release.

If Germany, as an export nation, wants to realign its business model, then onshoring supply chains isnt a solution that will help the economy. A more promising option would be to establish strategic partnerships and free trade agreements with like-minded nations, such as the US. That should be the objective of German and European economic policy, said Florian Dorn, co-author of the study.

The ifo Institute applied its trade model to the simulation of five scenarios, including the decoupling of Western countries from China, combined with a trade agreement between the EU and the US. The EUUS trade agreement could cushion the negative effects of the decoupling on the German and US economies, but not offset them completely. Given the expected gains in the trade relationship with the US, the net costs would be similar to the projected costs of Brexit.
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 8, 2022 / Ever wish you could seek out a key business executive's direct telephone number, cell or mobile phone, or personal email address? It could be for business or personal reasons. Finding the contact information of high-level decision makers doesn't have to be challenging. Zoominfo has been a leader in the B2B business intelligence industry for years. However, there are Zoominfo competitors and cost-effective contact data alternatives to get the same or possibly better results.

Zoominfo builds go-to-market solutions that help companies hit their number. Image Credit: 123RF / FreedomTumz.

What Is ZoomInfo?

Based on market insights and intent data, ZoomInfo is a business-to-business (B2B) intelligence tool that will assist you in finding business contacts that are a suitable sales prospect for your product or service. In addition to its B2B database of information about key business people and companies, ZoomInfo sells paid access to its database to professionals in the sales, marketing, and recruiting industries.

ZoomInfo Features Overview

With a birds-eye perspective of connections, businesses, and prospects, ZoomInfo equips business data to provide predictable, rapid, and sustainable development. In addition, the updated ZoomInfo database offers a wide range of integration options for technologies and workflows already in use. These include top customer relationship management (CRM), sales engagement, and marketing automation systems.

ZoomInfo is a one-stop shop for all your prospecting and sales needs, making it a powerful contact finding tool .

ZoomInfo Database Coverage

According to Zoominfo, their B2B data consists of 220 million contact records, 100 million company records, 65 million direct dials, 50 million mobile numbers, and 150 million email addresses, all accessible from their data dashboard.

More than 30,000+ businesses globally have their sales and marketing teams rely on ZoomInfo's B2B database to identify, connect with, and close more customers.

ZoomInfo has significantly increased its business and contact data coverage in Europe in the last year by 81%. More businesses globally will be able to use ZoomInfo's contact data, analytics, and comprehensive go-to-market platform.

Top Reasons Professionals Use Zoominfo's B2B Database

- Identify, connect with, and close more customers.

- Provide sales leadership with focused sales lead lists, opportunity alerts to act on, and predictive insights to focus on, all through their company contact database.

- Eliminate spending excessive time on prospecting research or CRM contact database cleaning, to focus more on sales growth.

- Give marketing and demand generation teams the tools to find, engage, and quickly identify the best prospects.

- A standardized, expanded, self-cleaning marketing and sales contact database effortlessly linked to your processes to assist your sales and operations teams.

ZoomInfo's Rise and Consistent Success as a Company

Henry Schuck is the CEO and Co-Founder of ZoomInfo Technologies Inc . Zoominfo was famously launched during the real estate crisis in 2007 by using $25,000 charged to credit cards. Zoominfo launched an IPO in June 2020 just as the COVID pandemic started.

Recently, Zoominfo announced their first quarter (Q1) 2022 results that included revenue of $241.7 million, an increase of 58% year-over-year. A key highlight was: "Closed the quarter with 1,623 customers with $100,000 or greater in annual contract value," which amounts to more than $162,300,000+ in revenue annually from just 1623 customers.

Zoominfo has gone on a topgrading hiring spree for executive A-players as of late. Notable key hires and appointments include:

- Bryan Law named Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).

- Tomer Gershoni appointed First Chief Security Officer (CSO).

- Chad Herring named Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO).

- Alison Gleeson appointed to the Board of Directors.

"First, I would like to congratulate Henry Schuck and the Zoominfo Team on their continued success in the B2B data industry. As a leading competitor of Zoominfo, we do have many customers that subscribe to both the Zoominfo platform and the Swordfish AI platform concurrently," said Ben Argeband, Founder and CEO of Swordfish AI.

Argeband continued, "Based on reviews and feedback, many of our users have specifically told us that Swordfish AI is a more cost-effective solution for the same, or in some cases, better B2B data to search phone numbers , especially cells and mobiles. However, when it comes to closing deals, Zoominfo vs. Swordfish AI , why not have both platforms at the same time to cover all bases."

ZoomInfo Pipeline Blog and Social Media Profiles

Zoominfo's blog is called " The Pipeline : Growth Guides for B2B Success." ZoomInfo can be found on popular social media platforms such as:

- Twitter @ZoomInfo.

- Facebook @ZoomInformation.

- Linkedin @ZoomInfo.

- Instagram @ZoomInfo, and more.

- ZoomInfo is often used as their hashtag.

Top 5 Best ZoomInfo Alternatives

With Zoominfo pricing potentially being one of the most expensive B2B databases, there are other leading Zoominfo alternatives that may be more cost-effective. It's always recommended to test and choose the one that suits your specific business needs. Looking for reverse phone lookup resources or alternative contact database search platforms?

Here are the top five Zoominfo alternatives to consider:

Swordfish AI Lusha UpLead D&B Hoovers RocketReach

1. Swordfish AI

Swordfish AI (swordfish.ai) is one of the best email and cell phone finder tools out there. With over 200+ network data partners, Swordfish AI offers users the most accurate and up-to-date contact information, including business and personal email addresses and cell phone numbers.

Through a free Swordfish AI Chrome extension plugin, Swordfish AI works on many popular social media profiles across the web, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, GitHub, Meetup, Stack Overflow, Dribble, Xing, Bing, Gmail, and Google. By using the Swordfish Chrome Extension, you will be able to see all of the contact information found on the profile of the individual.

Finding cell phone numbers and email addresses can also be easily accessed directly through the Swordfish.ai website without the need for a Chrome plugin through the bulk upload and data list enrichment feature.

Swordfish's mission is to save you your most valuable asset - time, to reduce your cognitive load, to make connecting to business opportunities easier, and of course, to authenticate identity.

2. Lusha

Lusha (lusha.co) is another reliable B2B contact information company that provides users the experience to find emails and phone numbers fast. Lusha works great with LinkedIn. You can get detailed contact information with a few clicks by simply visiting LinkedIn profile.

You can easily integrate with Salesforce, Hubspot, or Outreach CRMs to make your sales process much more efficient. Lusha is known for accuracy and for providing well-updated contact information.

According to Lusha, their database contains 100M business profiles, 60M decision makers' email addresses, 50M decision-makers phone numbers, 15M full company profiles, and even more data.

3. UpLead

UpLead (uplead.com) is known for getting targeted sales leads, and they are a trusted company to connect and engage with qualified prospects. You can find quality leads with the online B2B sales intelligence platform UpLead.

UpLead interacts with well-known CRM systems like Zoho, HubSpot, and others, its strongest feature. You can switch between different software packages easily as a result. UpLead is rated highest on various review sites by their users and has great customer satisfaction.

UpLead has a database with 85M+ B2B contacts with email addresses and 14M+ global company profiles.

4. D&B Hoovers

D&B Hoovers (dnb.com) is branded as the best tool to target leads strategically and boost the intent to get targeted leads. They are known for providing more insights and analytics on B2B data.

In addition to the most comprehensive business data available anywhere, D&B Hoovers provides access to sophisticated analytics to provide a comprehensive sales intelligence solution packed with valuable information.

With 30,000 global data sources updated daily, D&B Hoovers maintains a database of over 330 million companies.

5. RocketReach

RocketReach (rocketreach.co) is known as your first-degree connection to any professional. Take advantage of the world's largest and most accurate database of personal email addresses and direct dial phone numbers to directly contact the right decision makers.

The RocketReach Advanced Search feature makes it easy for you to identify the right people. Furthermore, RocketReach is compatible with Google Sheets and many other spreadsheets and databases.

RocketReach has databases of over 700 million professionals and 35 million businesses with an 85% accuracy rate. RocketReach is one of the well-trusted brands.

About Swordfish AI as an Alternative vs. Zoominfo

Who Uses Swordfish AI?

- Anyone wanting to get verified contact info quickly - cell phone numbers or emails.

- Sales Professionals wanting to target and land Enterprise-Level accounts.

- Sales Development Reps (SDRs) or Business Development Reps (BDRs) wanting to generate leads quickly for scheduling demo calls.

- Recruiting, Human Resources (HR), Talent Acquisition, and Teams of Recruiters looking to source candidate contact information to fill open positions quickly.

- CEOs and Founders looking to target more potential investors and raise money for their startup company.

Common Problems Swordfish AI Solves:

- Are your Sales Development Reps (SDRs) not booking enough meetings?

- Would your Account Executives (AEs) rather be talking to more sales prospects and closing more Enterprise-Level deals?

- Burned out from spending too much time finding accurate decision maker cell phone numbers and emails?

- Struggling to find new prospects, and then figuring out how to contact them?

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View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711369/ZoomInfo-Competitors-Review-of-Alternatives-For-2022-2023
GRDD040 - 400.8m @ 0.57g/t Au from surface

including 95.88m @ 1.24g/t Au from 220m

GRDD041 - 468m @ 0.43g/t Au from surface

HIGHLIGHTS

Assay results have been received for drillholes GRDD039, GRDD040, GRDD041.

Drilling has confirmed a very broad and consistent zone of gold mineralization within the eastern zone of the Kebigada ore body.

GRDD040 - 400.8m @ 0.57g/t from surface including 15m @ 0.72g/t Au from surface. 95.88m @ 1.24g/t Au from 220.01m. 32.82m @ 0.69g/t Au from 330.30m

GRDD041 - 468m @ 0.43g/t Au from surface including 24m @ 0.77g/t Au from surface. 30.11m @ 0.53g/t Au from 148.97. 72.12m @ 0.74g/t Au from 279.92.



PERTH, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / August 8, 2022 / Amani Gold Limited (ASX:ANL), (OTC PINK:BRYYF) ("Amani" or "the Company") is pleased to announce assay results for three diamond drill holes completed at the Company's 4.1Moz Kebigada deposit.

Drilling was intended to target high grade gold mineralization within the existing resource area and depth extensions of the Kebigada central and eastern ore bodies.

GRDD040 and GRDD041 returned a very broad intersections of 400.80m @ 0.57g/t Au from surface ( 228 gram meters ) and 468m @ 0.43g/t Au from surface ( 200 gram meters ) respectively. These two holes confirm the broad and consistent gold mineralization in the Kebigada eastern ore body.

Assays results were returned for the final 146.67m of GRDD039, significant intercepts are listed in Table 2.

On the Drill Results, Amani Chief Executive Officer Conrad Karageorge commented:

"We are very excited about the latest results from our 2022 drilling campaign.

Holes GRDD040 and GRDD041 have each returned over 400m of mineralization, confirming the grade and consistency of the Kebigada eastern ore body.

These latest results further highlight the potential for Kebigada to become a world class gold project."

TABLE 1 - DRILLHOLE SUMMARY Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation (m) End-of-Hole (m) Azimuth Dip Line GRDD039 749093 344042 867 454.50 043 -55 450N GRDD040 748919 344714 862 400.80 043 -55 1050N GRDD041 748899 344628 863 468.00 043 -55 1000N

TABLE 2 - SIGNIFICANT INTERCEPTS1 Hole ID From

(m) To

(m) Interval

(m) Gold Grade

(g/t) GRDD039 378.68 379.86 1.18 1.22 GRDD040 0 400.80 400.80 0.57 Including 0 15 15 0.72 220.01 315.90 95.88 1.24 330.30 363.12 32.82 0.69 GRDD041 0 468 468 0.43 Including 0 24 24 0.77 148.97 179.08 30.11 0.53 279.92 352.04 72.12 0.74

1Intercepts calculated on an interval weighted average basis.

Figure 1 - Cross Section 1050N showing GRDD040 and the 2020 resource model blocks and Au (ppm).

Figure 2 - Cross Section 1000N showing GRDD041 and the 2020 resource model blocks and Au (ppm).

Drilling Progress

Amani has now completed 7 of the 8 diamond drillholes planned at the Kebigada deposit with the Company is currently completing drilling of the final hole GRDD043.

The goal of the diamond program is to test the continuity of identified mineralization along strike and down dip of the Kebigada Central Ore Body confirmed in previously drilled diamond holes and depth extensions of broad mineralized zones within the Kebigada Eastern Ore Body that were outlined in previous RC drilling completed in 2017.

Figure 3 - Map of 2022 Kebigada Diamond Drilling Campaign.

Figure 4 - Map of Giro Gold Project, showing Kebigada and Douze Match deposits, tenement, surface geology, prospect locations and diamond core drillholes GRDD034 and GRDD035 (Green).

About Giro Gold Project

The Giro Gold Project comprises two exploration permits covering a surface area of 497km and lies within the Kilo-Moto Belt of the DRC, a significant under-explored greenstone belt which hosts Randgold Resources' 17 million-ounce Kibali group of deposits within 35km of Giro. The nearby Kibali Gold Project produces more than 600,000oz gold per annum.

The Giro Gold Project area is underlain by highly prospective volcano-sedimentary lithologies in a similar structural and lithological setting as the Kibali gold deposits. Both primary and alluvial gold was mined from two main areas, the Giro and Tora areas, during Belgian rule and today. Giro Gold Project global resource for Kebigada and Douze Match deposits exceeds 4.4Moz contained gold; with a total Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate of 132Mt @ 1.04g/t Au, for 4.4Moz gold (0.5g/t Au cut-off grade). The Kebigada resource followed diamond core drilling results which successfully targeted deeper high-grade sulphide associated gold mineralisation within the central core of the Kebigada deposit. Drillholes GRDD034 and GRDD035 are 240m apart and both outlined high-grade gold mineralisation deeper than previously intersected at the Kebigada deposit. These gold assay results and the current Kebigada MRE indicate the potential for the Kebigada deposit to substantially grow via targeted deeper drilling along the entire strike of the orebody.

Figure 5 - Map of Haute Uele Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, showing the location of the Kebigada and Douze Match gold deposits and tenement, Giro Gold Project.

TABLE 3 - GIRO GOLD PROJECT GLOBAL MRE AT 0.5 G/T AU CUT-OFF GRADE (H&SC)1 Classification Kebigada Deposit Douze Match Deposit Combined Tonnes (Mt) Au (g/t) Au (Moz) Tonnes (Mt) Au (g/t) Au (Moz) Tonnes (Mt) Au (g/t) Au (Moz) Indicated 69 1.09 2.4 2.2 1.2 0.09 71 1.10 2.5 Inferred 54 0.95 1.7 5.8 1.2 0.23 60 0.98 1.9 Total 124 1.03 4.1 8.1 1.2 0.32 132 1.04 4.4

1 See ASX Announcement titled "Kebigada Mineral Resource Estimate Exceeds 4Moz Gold Milestone" dated 19 March 2020.

(significant figures do not imply precision and rounding may occur in totals)

TABLE 4 - GRADE TONNAGE DATA FOR KEBIGADA MRE (H&SC)1 Cut-off (Au g/t) Tonnes (Mt) Au (g/t) Au (Moz) 0.0 429.6 0.45 6.19 0.3 205.8 0.78 5.13 0.4 158.8 0.90 4.61 0.5 123.7 1.03 4.10 0.6 98.2 1.16 3.65 0.7 78.4 1.29 3.24 0.8 62.8 1.42 2.86 0.9 50.5 1.56 2.53 1.0 41.0 1.70 2.24 1.2 27.9 1.98 1.78 1.3 23.4 2.12 1.60 1.5 17.0 2.40 1.31 2.0 8.7 3.04 0.85

1 See ASX Announcement titled "Kebigada Mineral Resource Estimate Exceeds 4Moz Gold Milestone" dated 19 March 2020.

(significant figures do not imply precision and rounding may occur in totals)

This ASX announcement has been authorised for release by the board of Amani Gold Limited.

-ENDS-

For more information contact:

Mr Conrad Karageorge

Chief Executive Officer

+61 8 8186 3002

conrad@amanigold.com

Website: www.amanigold.com

Competent Person's Statement - Exploration Results

The information in this report that relates to exploration results is based on, and fairly represents information and supporting documentation prepared by Mr Ross Corben, a Competent Person who is a fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr Corben is an independent consultant. He has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposits under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the "Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resource and Ore Reserves". Mr Corben takes responsibility for the drill hole data that underpins the Mineral Resource estimate. Mr Corben consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

Competent Person's Statement - Mineral Resource Estimate

The information in this Report that relates to Mineral Resource Estimates for the Kebigada deposit is based on information compiled by Mr. Arnold van der Heyden, who is a Member and Chartered Professional (Geology) of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and Managing Director of H&S Consultants Pty Ltd and released on the ASX Platform on 19 March 2020.

Mr. van der Heyden has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves' (JORC Code). Mr. van der Heyden consents to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on the information in the form and context in which it appears.

Forward Looking Statements

Statements regarding the Company's plans with respect to its mineral properties are forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that the Company's plans for development of its mineral properties will proceed as currently expected. There can also be no assurance that the Company will be able to confirm the presence of additional mineral deposits, that any mineralisation will prove to be economic or that a mine will successfully be developed on any of the Company's mineral properties.

Previous Disclosure - 2012 JORC Code

Information relating to Mineral Resources, Exploration Targets and Exploration Data associated with previous disclosures relating to the Giro Goldfields Project in this announcement has been extracted from the following ASX Announcements:

ASX Announcement titled " Project and Operations Update " dated 20 December 2021.

" dated 20 December 2021. ASX announcement titled " Diamond Drilling commenced at 4.1Moz Kebigada Gold Deposit " dated 16 December 2021.

" dated 16 December 2021. ASX announcement titled " Kebigada Mineral Resource Estimate Exceeds 4Moz Gold Milestone " dated 19 March 2020.

" dated 19 March 2020. ASX announcement titled " High Grade Gold Results from Deeper Diamond Core Drilling at Kebigada Deposit Opens Up Mineralisation Model " dated 31 October 2019.

" dated 31 October 2019. ASX announcement titled " Phase One Diamond Core Drilling Completed at Kebigada Deposit, Giro Gold Project " dated 11 October 2019.

" dated 11 October 2019. ASX announcement titled " Amani Completes MOU over Gada Gold Project with SOKIMO and Commences Exploration " dated 19 August 2019.

" dated 19 August 2019. ASX announcement titled " Giro Gold Project Exceeds 3Moz gold, with Douze Match Maiden Mineral Resource Estimate of 320koz gold " dated 10 December 2018.

" dated 10 December 2018. ASX announcement titled " Significant results from further infill drilling at Kebigada, Giro Gold Project " dated 17 May 2017.

" dated 17 May 2017. ASX announcement titled " Further Significant results from infill drilling at Kebigada, Giro Gold Project " dated 4 May 2017.

" dated 4 May 2017. ASX announcement titled "Amani reports intercept of 105m@7.733g/t Au from infill drilling at Kebigada Giro Gold Project" dated 10 April 2017.

Copies of reports are available to view on the Amani Limited website www.amanigold.com. These reports were issued in accordance with the 2012 Edition of the JORC Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original market announcements. The Company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Person's findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcement.

JORC Code, 2012 Edition - Table 1

Section 1 Sampling Techniques and Data

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Sampling techniques Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gamma sondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.

Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used.

Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report.

In cases where 'industry standard' work has been done this would be relatively simple (eg 'reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain 1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay'). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada Sampling of diamond core was carried out under strict QAQC procedures as per industry standards where certified reference materials (CRMs) of varying grades, blank samples and field duplicates are each inserted at a rate of 1 in 30 so that every 10th sample is a quality control sample. Sampling was carried out according to lithological/structural boundaries having a minimum sample width of 40cm and a maximum sample width of 2m. HQ and NQ samples were split with the same half consistently submitted for assay. The samples which had an average weight of approximately 2-3kg were then crushed and split in an accredited laboratory to produce a 50g charge for fire assay with AA finish. Drilling techniques Drill type (eg core, reverse circulation, open-hole hammer, rotary air blast, auger, Bangka, sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method, etc). Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada HQ core drilling down to fresh rock after which the hole was cased off before changing to NQ. Standard core barrels were used throughout the drilling campaign. The holes were orientated with a compass, and surveyed at 30 m intervals using a Reflex EZ-Trac instrument. Solid drill core was orientated using a Reflex Act III core orientation tool. Drill sample recovery Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed.

Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples.

Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada All core is fitted and measured at the drill site and core gains or recoveries recorded against the driller's depths. Sample recovery was recorded in the drill logs, as well as sample loss. Core recoveries were generally better than 80% in the weathered zone and greater than 95% in the intermediate and fresh profile. Where losses were noted in the saprolitic interval, sample widths were limited to the width of the run with a maximum of 1.5m which was the length of the core barrel. As poor recovery affected a minority of the samples, it was not taken into account while calculating mineralised intervals. Logging Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies.

Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc) photography.

The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada All core was logged geologically, geotechnically and structurally at industry standard levels. Core is marked with metre marks every metre and orientation and cut lines marked on every hole according to a fixed procedure. Logging is both qualitative and quantitative with core photographed for both wet and dry sample before being split. The total length of all drill holes was logged recording lithology, alteration, weathering, colour, grain size, strength, mineralisation and quartz veining. Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.

If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and whether sampled wet or dry.

For all sample types, the nature, quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique.

Quality control procedures adopted for all sub-sampling stages to maximise representivity of samples.

Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling.

Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada The highly weathered saprolitic zone was split using a bladed instrument. As soon as core had sufficient strength to withstand cutting using a diamond saw the cutting method was changed to the latter. All core was halved with the same half selected for sampling according to procedure. Sampling was then conducted according to geology or structure generally having a maximum sample width of 1m for HQ core and 2m for NQ. Half core samples were then bagged in clear plastic bags with pre-printed sample tickets. Sampling was carried out under strict QAQC procedures as per industry standards where certified reference materials (CRMs) of varying grades, blank samples and field duplicates are each inserted at a rate of 1 in 30 so that every 10th sample is a quality control sample. The sample bags containing approximately 2-3kg of diamond core sample were sent to the SGS (African Assay Laboratories) in Tanzania. The final sample was crushed to >75% of the sample passing as less than 2mm. 1.5kg of sample was split from the crushed sample and pulverized until 85% of the material could pass a 75um sieve. From this, a 50g sample was selected for fire assay at the SGS Laboratory. Crushing and pulverising were subject to regular quality control practices of the laboratory. Sample sizes are appropriate considering the grain size of the samples. However, in the case of lateritic lithology, a nugget effect is likely to occur. Intervals in laterites will therefore be treated separately in any resource estimations. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total.

For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc.

Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks, duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada The laboratory used 50g of sample and analysed samples using Fire Assay with an AA finish. This technique is considered an appropriate method to evaluate total gold content of the samples. In addition to the laboratory's internal QC procedure, every 10th field sample comprised a blank sample or standard sample. The interval of core samples of hole GRDD039 (151 samples) contained 6 blanks and 5 standards whose results showed excellent accuracy. Furthermore, 6 duplicates were analysed and showed good precision. The interval of core samples of hole GRDD040 (408 samples) contained 15 blanks and 15 standards whose results showed excellent accuracy. Furthermore, 15 duplicates were analysed and showed good precision. The interval of core samples of hole GRDD041 (480 samples) contained 18 blanks and 18 standards whose results showed excellent accuracy. Furthermore, 17 duplicates were analysed and showed good precision. Verification of sampling and assaying The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel.

The use of twinned holes.

Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols.

Discuss any adjustment to assay data. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada Logging and sampling data was entered into spreadsheets, then checked by the Exploration Manager for inconsistencies and stored in an Access database. No holes were twinned. Holes are logged by hand on printed log sheets. Logging is done according to standardised header, lithological and structural information. Data is then input into EXCEL spread sheets which are then emailed to the database manager for input into Access. Data is then interrogated and all discrepancies are communicated and resolved with field teams to ensure only properly verified data is stored in the Access database. Location of data points Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation.

Specification of the grid system used.

Quality and adequacy of topographic control. Drill hole collars were recorded using a Garmin handheld GPS with an error margin of less than 5m. Hole positions are marked using tape and compass reducing relative error to less than 1metre along each drill line. The holes are surveyed using a DGPS with centimetre accuracy. Coordinates are reported in the WGS84-UTM35N Grid system. Data spacing and distribution Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results.

Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied.

Whether sample compositing has been applied. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada The diamond drilling program is designed to delineate the down-dip extensions of the mineralised zones. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type.

If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias, this should be assessed and reported if material. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada Drillholes were oriented perpendicularly to the interpreted strike of the mineralised zone already drill delineated by the previous drilling. Sample security The measures taken to ensure sample security. Samples were collected under strict supervision of the Senior Exploration Geologist. Bagged samples were then labelled and sealed and stored on site in a locked dwelling for transport to the laboratory. Samples were transported to the laboratory in a sealed vehicle under supervision of a contracted logistics company. Audits or reviews The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data. The Competent Person for the Exploration Results has not visited the site due to Covid-19 travel restrictions. However, the Competent Person has reviewed all of the historical QAQC data and checked assays with the original laboratory reports and is satisfied that the exploration work has been carried out in a satisfactory manner.

Section 2 Reporting of Exploration Results

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Mineral tenement and land tenure status Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings.

The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a licence to operate in the area. The project comprises two Exploitation Permits (Permisd'Exploitation), PE5046 and PE5049.These are owned by a joint venture company, Giro Goldfields Sarl, formed between Amani Consulting Sarl (65%) and Societe Miniere de Kilo-Moto SA (SOKIMO) (35%), both DRC registered entities. Amani Gold holds 85% of Amani Consulting. Tenure is in good standing. Exploration done by other parties Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. The licensed area has not been systematically explored since the end of Belgian colonial rule in 1960. Two field visits were conducted in the area, the first in 2010 by the "Office des Mines d'Or de Kilo-Moto" (OKIMO), and the second in December 2011 by Universal Consulting SPRL, working for Amani Consulting. Following a review of historical and previous exploration data, Panex Resources Inc. conducted a first RC drilling campaign at the Giro prospect between December 2013 and February 2014, completing 57 holes for 2,888m. Geology Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. The geological setting is comprised mostly of volcano-sedimentary rocks from the Kibalian complex, with multiple granites and granitoid intrusions. A network of faults seems to have been reactivated at different intervals. Kebigada At the Giro Gold Project, the main lithologies hosting the mineralisation are saprolite, quartz veins and stringers and silicified volcano-sediments. Mineralisation is associated with quartz veining and silicification of host rocks along a major NW trending shear zone. Generally, higher gold grades are associated with greater percentages of sulphide (pyrite) and silicification. Drill hole Information A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes: easting and northing of the drill hole collar elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea level in metres) of the drill hole collar dip and azimuth of the hole down hole length and interception depth hole length.

If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case. Drill hole collar data and main intervals are shown in Table 1. Elevation data was recorded using a Garmin handheld GPS. Once the programme is completed all drill hole collars will be surveyed with a DGPS to accurately establish position and elevation. Data aggregation methods In reporting Exploration Results, weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades) and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated.

Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail.

The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated. Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada Each sample generally represented 1m of diamond drilling however lithological and structural contacts are taken in consideration and intervals adjusted accordingly. The intersections reported were weighted by length to calculate the mean grades over sample intervals. Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results.

If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known, its nature should be reported.

If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect (eg 'down hole length, true width not known'). Diamond Core Drilling - Kebigada The drill holes were drilled with dips of -55. Drilling has indicated that the drill holes were drilled normal to the foliation but structural logging suggests mineralisation is associated with multiple structural orientations which makes it difficult to ascertain the true structural orientation controlling mineralisation. True widths could not be determined as dip of mineralisation is still not clear with limited overlap in drill holes but is estimated to be 50-60% when using the dip of the regional foliation. Diagrams Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views. Table 1 shows the drill collar positions, Figure 2 shows a cross section with reported results. All mineralised intervals are reported in Table 6. Balanced reporting Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results. Drill holes drilled in the completed program are shown in Table 1 and all the results received for Kebigada which are reported in Table 6, according to the data aggregation method described previously. All high grade intercepts are reported as included intervals in Table 2. Other substantive exploration data Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances. Further work The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large-scale step-out drilling).

Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive. Kebigada results are being assessed on an ongoing basis and additional holes planned and drilled when deemed necessary. A number of significant soil anomalies in the immediate vicinity of the main Kebigada ore body will be tested with shallow RC drilling.

SOURCE: Amani Gold Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711157/Extensive-Gold-Mineralization-Confirmed-In-Kebigada-Diamond-Drilling
The raid on former President Donald Trump's residence Monday evening elicited a mix of outrage and suspicions that the search was politically motivated.

Trump said that his residence was being examined by an FBI team that had entered his safe.

Trump Supporters Rally Outside Mar-a-Lago

A small group gathered across the street from the Mar-A-Lago resort in Florida Monday night as cars went by honking after former President Donald Trump said federal officials searched his Palm Beach residence.

As per USA Today, the FBI is participating in the search, which is linked to records Trump took from the White House last year. Trump did not explain why the agents seemed to be at his Florida property in a statement, but he did say that "this unannounced raid on my house was neither necessary nor acceptable."

Fox News anchor Brian Kilmeade tweeted that he had spoken with Eric Trump, who informed him that the raid was carried out by around 30 agents. Kilmeade falsely stated that the White House authorized the operation.

The house was reportedly examined in connection with 15 boxes Trump took with him when he left the White House last year, some of which may have held sensitive documents, according to the New York Times. The horrific raid is still making headlines, and conservatives online are reacting with contempt.

Read Also: FBI Director Admits Unfair Treatment in Hunter Biden Probe, Vows To Protect Whistleblowers as Republicans Seek Answers

Trump Supporters Question Why FBI Hasn't Raided Hillary Clinton's Home

Donald Trump has accused the FBI of having a double standard after raiding his Mar-a-Lago estate to get presidential papers but allowing Hillary Clinton to 'destroy and acid wash 33,000 E-mails.'

Hillary Clinton's emails were held on a private server, which violated government policy, and the business that administered the server destroyed the archive mailbox in March 2015. Trump claimed in a long statement that the raid was a sign of "dark times for our Nation."

The transfer of records from the White House to Mar-a-Lago was first reported in February even though the law requires all presidential communication and paperwork to be turned over to the National Archives.

The raid was believed to be court-authorized, and the FBI provided early notification to US Secret Service personnel at Mar-a-Lago, who cooperated by allowing them access to the property. The White House of President Joe Biden was unaware of the raid.

On Monday night, Donald Trump was seen exiting Trump Tower in New York after claiming that his house had been raided by the FBI, purportedly as part of an investigation into whether the former president took sensitive materials with him when he left the White House.

As he walked inside his SUV, accompanied by Secret Service personnel, he waved and gave his customary thumbs up to the assembled crowd. However, the probe is focusing on anything Trump carried to Mar-a-Lago after leaving the White House, especially if he has classified information in his private possession, which would be a violation of federal law.

The raid comes as Donald Trump considers running for president again; and his actions after the 2020 election, in which he attempted to nullify Biden's victory, are being investigated by legislators on Capitol Hill.

The Justice Department would clarify whether Attorney General Merrick Garland personally ordered the search although a raid on a former president is exceedingly uncommon without the AG's consent.

The FBI provided early notification to US Secret Service agents at Mar-a-Lago, who cooperated by allowing them access to the property. The Secret Service agents, however, did not participate in the inquiry or search.

This means that the FBI didn't have to break into the house or smash down any doors. A search warrant does not imply that criminal charges are imminent or even expected, but it must be court-authorized, Daily Mail reported.

Related Article: Trump Beats DeSantis With 69% Support in New CPAC Poll for 2024 Presidential Primary

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BSI certification agency has granted Abionic's abioSCOPE device and PSP test the IVDR certification for in-vitro diagnostics.

This certification complies with Europe's new In-vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR), and will be required for products sold within the EU from May 2022 onward. A transitional regulation allows established, non-IVDR-certified products to be sold and used if they entered the EU before May 2022.

Pancreatic Stone Protein (PSP) on the abioSCOPE is the earliest marker of sepsis, allowing for its identification up to 72 hours before the standard of care in 5 minutes.

The newly IVDR certified PSP test is particularly useful for guiding physicians in the decision to start or modify antibiotic treatment.

Abionic SA, a developer of disruptive nanotechnology-based diagnostic solutions, has announced that its Pancreatic Stone Protein (PSP) test on the abioSCOPE has been certified by BSI certification agency as complying with the European In-vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR), EU 2017/746. This certification granted by notified bodies like BSI is required for in-vitro diagnostics to continue being sold in the European Union. The IVDR's extensive requirements were adopted by the European Parliament in 2017 and must now be implemented by May 26, 2022.

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FIVE MINUTES TO SAVE LIVES Immediate clinical decision-making at your fingertips (Photo: Business Wire)

IVDR becomes mandatory as of May 26, 2022. There are also transitional rules that will allow well-established instruments that have not been IVDR certified, but that entered the EU before, to still be sold until 2025. Depending on their shelf life, they may also be used after 2025. Abionic has been preparing for IVDR compliance since 2019, and chose BSI, a reputable notified body that was authorized to perform this certification process.

"As part of its ongoing commitment to meeting the highest standards to ensure patient safety and meet customer needs, Abionic is proud to have achieved the required IVDR certification for its class C product," stated Dr. Iwan Marki, CTO of Abionic.

Improving the management of antibiotic administration

Antibiotics are medicines that are used to prevent and treat bacterial infections, which have revolutionized healthcare since the 1930s and have been paramount in saving millions of lives. However, a systematic overuse and misuse of antibiotics is leading to a concerning increase in the number of antibiotic resistant bacteria, which are becoming harder to treat and causing more severe and fatal infections. International and national healthcare organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified antibiotic resistance as one of the biggest threats to global health today. The over-prescription of antibiotics by healthcare workers is a key contributing factor leading to resistance, with a direct relationship between antibiotic consumption and the emergence and dissemination of resistant bacteria strains (Nature. 2013:495(7440):141). Studies have shown that antibiotic therapy is incorrectly prescribed in as many as 60% of patients receiving hospital care and is likely to be even higher outside this environment (Luyt et al., Critical Care, 2014). Aside from contributing to resistance, inappropriate antibiotic use may lead to increased mortality and severe disease, increased healthcare costs, increased lengths of stay in hospital and the need for more complex treatments leading to a higher risk for adverse effects and unwanted drug interactions.

Dr. Samir Vora, infectious disease physician, Geneva, Switzerland, commented: "The PSP assay has the potential to help the physician decide whether or not to start antibiotic therapy, and thus contribute to reducing the two major public health problems of sepsis and antimicrobial resistance."

Two years after the commercial launch of its sepsis test, Abionic's expansion is reaching a global scale. With over 50 markets already covered, Abionic's next big step is the U.S. where sepsis represents the single largest cost to the healthcare system. Clinical trials to support FDA 510(k) submission are well underway. "As we gear up for FDA clearance, it's very motivating to see how excited the U.S. ecosystem is about our novel approach to detecting sepsis and its potential impact on lifespan and healthcare costs," said Nelson Dumas, Director of the U.S. Subsidiary of Abionic.

About Abionic

Founded in 2010, Abionic is a Swiss Medtech company commercializing a revolutionary nanofluidic technology, providing healthcare professionals with a fast, simple and universal diagnostic tool. Abionic's cutting-edge nanotechnology enhances the efficiency and versatility of standard ELISA tests to deliver optimal point of care (POC) treatment options by reducing current biological measuring techniques from the macroscale down to the nanoscale in a multi-analyte environment.

Abionic's In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) platform provides lab-quality ultra-fast results from a single drop of patient sample (saliva, blood, urine, etc.) at the POC enabling personalized diagnostics and opening the window of opportunity for immediate treatment. The company is mainly active in acute care and in primary care (COVID-19, allergy, iron deficiency) businesses.

For further information about Abionic, please visit https://www.abionic.com/.

For further information about IVDR, please visit: EUR-Lex

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220808005159/en/

Contacts:

Dr. Nicolas Durand

CEO

Abionic SA

+41 (0)21 353 33 80

info@abionic.com
Fraport sees dynamic passenger growth - Group revenue rises noticeably (up 66.3 percent), buoyed by rapid growth in Frankfurt and at the Group airports worldwide - Write-down leads to high one-time effect and negative Group result

FRANKFURT, Germany, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --FRA/gk-rap - Following the widespread lifting of pandemic-related travel restrictions, the airports across the Fraport Group recorded a strong rebound in passenger traffic. Some of Fraport's Greek airports serving holiday destinations - including Rhodes, Santorini and Kerkyra on the island of Corfu - even exceeded 2019 pre-crisis passenger levels during the first six months of 2022. Supported by the overall rise in travel demand, Fraport's Group revenue rose by 66.3 percent to 1,348.5 million in the January-to-June period of the current business year 2022.

Fraport's CEO Dr. Stefan Schulte stated: "Since March, we have been experiencing a strong upward trend in passenger traffic across our Group because people are able and eager to travel once again. At Frankfurt Airport, we are now expecting between 45 million and 50 million passengers for the full year 2022. Thus, this is higher traffic volume than expected at the beginning of the year. Our key operating financial figures have also improved - even when adjusting for last year's positive one-off effects such as the reimbursement we received for maintaining Frankfurt Airport's operations during the lockdown, as well as the pandemic compensation obtained in Greece. The main factors supporting this favorable development included the strong performance from the airports in our international portfolio and the positive contribution resulting from the divestiture of our Xi'an investment. Nevertheless, we are still far from reaching the levels seen in 2019."

Passenger traffic driven by strong demand for holiday travel

In the first six months of 2022, nearly 21 million passengers traveled via Fraport's home-base Frankfurt Airport (FRA). While this was still 38 percent below the traffic volume achieved in pre-pandemic 2019, the figure represents a growth rate of 220 percent compared to the same period in 2021. For the first time since the start of the pandemic, FRA welcomed almost 5 million passengers in June 2022 - which surpassed 75 percent of the traffic registered in the same month of the 2019 record year.

"The strong and dynamic recovery in passenger traffic poses some major operational challenges for us. Unfortunately, this also results in recurrent delays," said CEO Schulte referring to the present situation in Frankfurt. "Nevertheless, with the start of the summer school vacations in Germany, we have been able to maintain stable and reliable operations. This underscores the effectiveness of the measures that we have implemented in Frankfurt, in cooperation with our partners. However, there is still a way to go until we will fully meet our own quality requirements again."

Cargo volumes in Frankfurt decreased by 11.5 percent year-on-year to around 1.0 million metric tons in the first half of 2022. After a strong cargo performance in 2021, the decline can be mainly attributed to the airspace restrictions following the war in Ukraine, as well as to the effects of numerous lockdowns implemented in China as part of its zero-Covid strategy. Fraport's Group airports outside of Germany achieved higher passenger growth than Frankfurt because they benefitted to a greater extent from their primary function as tourism gateways and the rise in holiday travel.

Key operating figures improve noticeably

Supported by dynamic passenger growth, Fraport's Group revenue increased noticeably by 66.3 percent to 1,348.5 million. Adjusted for revenue from construction and expansion measures at Fraport's subsidiaries worldwide (in line with IFRIC 12), Group revenue grew by 67.7 percent to 1,211.8 million. The sale of Fraport's complete stake in the Xi'an airport company in China contributed a total of 53.7 million, which was recognized in the balance sheet as other operating income.

Fraport's Group EBITDA (earnings before interests, taxes, depreciation and amortization) increased by 21.8 percent year-on-year to 408.3 million. Thus, EBITDA grew at a slower pace than revenue, because last year's second-quarter EBITDA was strongly impacted by several positive one-off effects. Group EBIT rose to 181.9 million (from 116.1 million in the first half of 2021).

Group result in negative territory due to one-off effects

With minus 290.8 million, the Group's financial result was clearly negative for the first half of 2022. This was primarily due to the full write-down of the 163.3 million loan receivable from Thalita Trading Ltd., the company that holds Fraport's minority stake in the operator of St. Petersburg's Pulkovo Airport (LED). CEO Schulte explained: "In view of the further development of sanctions related to Russia's war against Ukraine, we have fully written off this loan receivable. At the same time, we are fully maintaining our claims related to the loan. The write-off does not imply a divestiture, since, under the current concession agreement, a sale of our stake in Pulkovo continues to be excluded until 2025."

Against this background, Group EBT fell to minus 108.9 million in the first six months of 2022 (6M 2021: 19.9 million). The Group result or net profit decreased to minus 53.1 million (6M 2021: 15.4 million).

Outlook

After conclusion of the first half of 2022, Fraport's executive board is revising the full-year passenger outlook for Frankfurt Airport upwards. Germany's largest aviation hub is now expected to welcome about 45 million to 50 million passengers in 2022 (previous forecast: 39 million to 46 million passengers).

Accounting for the positive traffic trend and two significant one-off effects, Fraport is also adjusting the outlook for some of the Group's key financial figures. Specifically, EBITDA for the full year is now expected to reach a higher range of between about 850 million and 970 million, following the conclusion of the Xi'an divestiture (previous forecast: 760 million to 880 million). Correspondingly, Group EBIT is now projected to reach between approximately 400 million and 520 million (previous forecast: 320 million to 440 million). In contrast, Fraport is revising the previous outlook for the full-year Group result (net profit) downward to a range of between about 0 and 100 million, due to the full write-down of the loan receivable from Thalita Trading Ltd. (previous forecast: 50 million to 100 million).

Print-quality photos of Fraport AG and Frankfurt Airport are available for free downloading via the photo library on the Fraport Web site. For TV news and information broadcasting purposes only, we also offer free footage material for downloading. If you wish to meet a member of our Media Relations team when at Frankfurt Airport, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our contact details are available here.

Fraport AG

Christian Engel Telephone: +49 69 690-30713

Corporate Communications E-mail: c.engel2l@fraport.de

60547 Frankfurt, Germany www.fraport.com

About Fraport AG and Frankfurt Airport

Headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, Fraport AG (Frankfurt Stock Exchange, MDAX) is one of the leading players in the global airport business. Fraport's portfolio of companies spans four continents with activities at 29 airports worldwide. In pre-pandemic 2019, more than 182 million passengers used airports in which Fraport has at least a 50 percent stake. Impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, Fraport's majority-owned Group airports welcomed only about 86 million passengers in 2021. In fiscal year 2021 (Dec. 31), Fraport AG generated revenue of 2.1 billion and profit of some 92 million.

Fraport's home-base Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is strategically located in the heart of Europe at the junction of vital intermodal road, rail and air networks. The surrounding Frankfurt Rhine-Main-Neckar region serves as an economic powerhouse and logistics hub for Europe and the world. In 2019, FRA welcomed more than 70.5 million passengers and handled 2.1 million metric tons of cargo. Only 24.8 million passengers traveled through FRA in 2021, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In terms of cargo, FRA ranks first in Europe with 2.3 million metric tons handled in 2021.
Contact:

Oak Fund Services (Guernsey) Limited

Company Administrator

Attn: Tracy Lewis

Tel: +44 1481 723450

Eurocastle Releases FirstHalf2022Financial Results and

Announces Annual General Meeting on 8 September 2022

Guernsey, 9 August 2022 - Eurocastle Investment Limitedhas released its financial report for the six months ended 30 June 2022.

Q 2 A DJUSTED NET ASSET VALUE ("NAV") 1 of 18.9 million, or 10.16 per share 2 , down 0.37 per share vs. 10.53 per share at Q1 2022 (up 0.37 per share since 31 December 2021) due to:



Valuation increases:



0.06 per share, or 8% increase in Q2 2022 (0.08 per share increase in H1 2022) on the valuation of the remaining two NPL and other loan interests. 0.04 per share, or 4% decrease in Q2 2022 (no movement in H1 2022) on the valuation of the remaining two real estate fund investments.



Recognition of tender offer costs in Q2 2022 of 0.38 per share.



No movement in reserves in Q2 2022 (release of 0.68 per share of reserves in H1 2022).





of 18.9 million, or 10.16 per share , down 0.37 per share vs. 10.53 per share at Q1 2022 (up 0.37 per share since 31 December 2021) due to:

TENDER OFFER





On 8 July 2022, the Company announced the conclusion of the strategic review and the decision to relaunch the Company's investment activity (the "Relaunch"). It also announced a tender offer to provide a liquidity opportunity for those shareholders who did not wish to participate in the Relaunch (the "Tender Offer"). The Tender Offer was set at a price of 10.26 per share, a 28% premium to the closing share price of 8.00 per share on 6 July 2022, and the maximum share buyback price authorised by the Company's shareholders.

On 20 July 2022, the Company held a general meeting (the "General Meeting") to vote on a resolution to waive the requirement for the Company's Manager and its affiliates (the "FIG Concert Party") to make a general offer for the Company should their ownership interest in the Company exceed 30% as a result the Tender Offer. This resolution was passed and as a result the Tender Offer proceeded and closed on 4 August 2022 with 67% of eligible shares tendered, resulting in Eurocastle accepting 864,980 shares in exchange for 10.26 of cash per share tendered, or 8.9 million in total.

H1 2022 BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

Q1 2022 NAV Q2 Cash Movement Q2 FV Movement Q2 2022 NAV  million  per share  million  per share  million  per share  million  per share Real Estate Funds 1.9 1.00 - - (0.1) (0.04) 1.8 0.96 Italian NPLs & Other Loans 1.3 0.71 (0.1) (0.04) 0.1 0.06 1.3 0.72 Net Corporate Cash3 16.4 8.82 0.1 0.04 (0.7) (0.38) 15.7 8.48 Adjusted NAV







19.6



10.53



-



-



(0.7)



(0.37)



18.9



10.16





H1 2022 Overview

During H1 2022, the Company continued to make progress on realising its remaining assets as part of its Realisation Plan with 41% of its YE 2021 NAV relating to investments realised in the period. As at 30 June 2022, the Company's investments comprised of two RE Fund Investments and two NPL pools with a NAV of 3.1 million, or 10% of the Company's NAV.

Investment Realisations & Highlights

During H1 2022, the Company realised 2.1 million from its investments, of which 1.9 million came from its Real Estate Funds (~52% of their YE 2021 NAV) and 0.1 million from its minority NPL and Other Loan holdings (~11% of their YE 2021 NAV).





RE Redevelopment Funds - REFI II & REFI V:



In REFI II, all units have been sold and the fund is now in liquidation. In REFI V, assuming all units currently under contract successfully close, only 3% of units will remain to be sold.



During H1 2022, Eurocastle received 1.9 million comprising (i) 1.0 million from REFI II (~70% of its YE 2021 NAV) and (ii) 1.0 million from REFI V (~42% of its YE 2021 NAV).







Additional Reserves:

The Company reduced these reserves from 14.8 million to 12.8 million during the period. The reduction of 2.0 million reflects 0.7 million of reserves being utilised, in line with anticipated costs, and a release of 1.3 million of the existing reserves in H1 2022. The majority of this release relates to the legacy German tax matter following a revision to the Company's estimated total liability. As at 30 June 2022, of the total Additional Reserves of 12.8 million, 6.7 million related to the legacy German tax matter with the balance of approximately 6.1 million in place to allow for an orderly liquidation process.

As previously announced, the Company made a payment of 4.6 million in March 2022 in relation to the legacy German tax matter against which it raised a corresponding tax asset. The current remaining financial impact (excluding associated costs of 0.2 million) is estimated to be between 1.7 million and 1.9 million. Notwithstanding the Company's expectation that the tax matter will eventually be resolved in the Company's favour, as at 30 June 2022, the full potential liability is fully reserved for within the Additional Reserves.





Subsequent Events To 30 June 2022 :

Tender Offer

As stated above, the Tender Offer closed on 4 August 2022 and the Company bought back 864,980 shares, or 8.9 million, resulting in a current share count at the date of this announcement of 992,555.

Investment Realisations

Subsequent to H1 2022, the Company received 1.5 million from its investments, or just under half of the Company's total Q2 2022 NAV for its investments, comprising:

1.3 million from REFI V, or ~90% of its Q2 2022 NAV.





0.3 million from one of the two remaining NPL pools following the completion of its sale on 29 July 2022 in line with its Q2 22 NAV.





Following these distributions, Eurocastle's remaining Q2 '22 NAV for all of its investments would be 1.6 million, or 8% of the Company's Adjusted NAV, which is expected to be realised within the next 15 months.

Net Available Cash for Relaunch

Taking into account the Tender Offer settlement and cash flows received from the investments subsequent to H1 2022, the Company has a cash position of 17.8 million and approximately 8.4 million of net available cash to commence seeking new investments under the new investment strategy.

The tables below show the Company's balance sheet and Net Corporate Cash as at 30 June 2022 as well as pro forma for the Tender Offer and investment cash flows received subsequent to H1 2022.

Q2 2022 NAV Q2 2022 NAV PRO FORMA FOR TENDER & Q3 REALISATIONS  million  per share  million  per share Investments 3.1 1.68 1.6 1.61 Cash 25.2 13.54 17.8 17.94 German Tax1 and Other Assets 4.7 2.53 4.7 4.73 Total Assets 33.0 17.75 24.1 24.28 Accrued Liabilities (1.3) (0.72) (1.3) (1.34) IFRS NAV 31.6 17.04 22.8 22.94 Liquidation Cash Reserves (6.1) (3.30) (6.1) (6.17) Legacy German Tax Cash Reserve (2.0) (1.08) (2.0) (2.02) Legacy German Tax Asset Reserve4 (4.6) (2.50) (4.6) (4.68) Adjusted NAV 18.9 10.16 10.0 10.07 Share count 1,857,535 992,555

Q2 2022 NET CORPORATE



CASH Q2 2022 NET CORPORATE CASH PRO FORMA TENDER & Q3 REALISATIONS  million  per share  million  per share Cash 25.2 13.54 17.8 17.94 Other Assets 0.1 0.03 0.1 0.05 Accrued Liabilities (1.3) (0.72) (1.3) (1.34) Liquidation Cash Reserves (6.1) (3.30) (6.1) (6.17) Legacy German Tax Cash Reserve (2.0) (1.08) (2.0) (2.02) Net Corporate Cash 15.7 8.48 8.4 8.46 Share count 1,857,535 992,555

Income Statement for the Six and Three Months ended 30 June 2022 (unaudited)

H1 2022 Q2 2022  Thousands  Thousands Portfolio Returns Italian NPLs & Other Loans 152 104 Real Estate Funds (5) (82) Fair value movement on Italian investments 147 22 Loss on foreign currency translation (2) (1) Total gain 145 21 Operating Expenses Interest expense 11 6 Manager base and incentive fees 75 26 Remaining operating expenses 635 303 Other Operating expenses 710 329 Total expenses 721 335 Net lossfor the period (576) 314  per share (0.31) (0.17)

Balance Sheet and Adjusted NAV Reconciliation as at 30 June 2022

Italian



Investments

 Thousands



Corporate

 Thousands



Total

 Thousands Assets Cash and cash equivalents - 25,153 25,153 Other assets - 50 50 Tax Asset - 4,645 4,645 Investments: Italian NPLs & Other Loans 1,347 - 1,347 Real Estate Funds 1,780 - 1,780 Total assets 3,127 29,848 32,975 Liabilities Trade and other payables - 545 545 Tender offer costs - 710 710 Manager base and incentive fees - 74 74 Total liabilities - 1,329 1,329 IFRS Net Asset Value 3,127 28,519 31,646 Liquidation cash reserves - (6,122) (6,122) Legacy German tax cash reserve (2,006) (2,006) Legacy German tax asset reserve5 - (4,645) (4,645) Adjusted NAV 3,127 15,746 18,873 Adjusted NAV ( per Share) 1.68 8.48 10.16

Tender Offer settlement - (8,875) (8,875) Distributions received subsequent to Q2 2022 (1,530) 1,530 - Q2 2022 PRO FORMA ADJUSTED NAV 1,597 8,401 9,998  per Share based on 992,555 shares 1.61 8.46 10.07

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Company will hold its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 8 September 2022, at the Company's registered office at 3:00 pm Guernsey time (4:00 pm CET). Notices and proxy statements will be posted on 24 August 2022 to shareholders of record at close of business on 23 August 2022.

NOTICE: This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of the Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

For investment portfolio information, please refer to the Company's most recent Financial Report, which is available on the Company's website).

Terms not otherwise defined in this announcement shall have the meaning given to them in the Circular.

ABOUT EUROCASTLE

Eurocastle Investment Limited.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements may relate to, among other things, future commitments to sell real estate and achievement of disposal targets, availability of investment and divestment opportunities, timing or certainty of completion of acquisitions and disposals, the operating performance of our investments and financing needs. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "potential", "intend", "expect", "endeavour", "seek", "anticipate", "estimate", "overestimate", "underestimate", "believe", "could", "project", "predict", "project", "continue", "plan", "forecast" or other similar words or expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions, discuss future expectations, describe future plans and strategies, contain projections of results of operations or of financial condition or state other forward-looking information. The Company's ability to predict results or the actual effect of future plans or strategies is limited. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, its actual results and performance may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results in future periods to differ materially from forecasted results or stated expectations including the risks regarding Eurocastle's ability to declare dividends or achieve its targets regarding asset disposals or asset performance.

1 In light of the Realisation Plan announced in November 2019, the Adjusted NAV as at 30 June 2022 reflects additional reserves for future costs and potential liabilities, which have not been accounted for under the IFRS NAV. No commitments for these future costs and potential liabilities existed as at 30 June 2022. IFRS NAV as at 30 June 2022 was 31.6 million or, 17.04 per share.

2 Per share calculations for Eurocastle throughout this document are based on 1.9 million shares unless otherwise stated.

3 Reflects corporate cash, plus other assets, net of liabilities and additional reserves.

4 In March 2022, the Company made a payment of 4.6 million in relation to the legacy German tax matter. Notwithstanding the Company's expectation that the tax matter will eventually be resolved in the Company's favour, as at 30 June 2022, this tax asset was fully reserved for within the Additional Reserves.

5 In March 2022, the Company made a payment of 4.6 million in relation to the legacy German tax matter. Notwithstanding the Company's expectation that the tax matter will eventually be resolved in the Company's favour, as at 30 June 2022, this tax asset was fully reserved for within the Additional Reserves.
The September event will also see EcoFlow showcasing its full range of eco-friendly energy solutions.

BERLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- EcoFlow, an eco-friendly energy solutions company, today announced that it will attend IFA 2022, to be held from September 2 to 6 in Berlin, Germany. During the event, EcoFlow will unveil its latest breakthrough in family-focused portable power stations, the EcoFlow DELTA 2.

"There's no better platform to debut our next-generation of portable power stations than Europe's largest trade fair for consumer and home electronics," said Ryan Xing, Regional Head of Europe at EcoFlow. "We have high expectations for the new product as it is bound to set a new benchmark for the industry. Unveiling the DELTA 2 at IFA 2022 is an important step in our expansion within the European market and represents our committment to providing European consumers wth practical, eco-friendly energy solutions. "

According to a recent study by Allied Market Research, in 2020 Europe held one-third of the global renewable energy market's share, with the European renewable energy market expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4% from 2021 to 2030. Over the past few years, EcoFlow has taken a leading position in the European market, where consumers have shown exceptional enthusiasm towards eco-friendly energy products and renewable energy solutions. In 2022, the European market became EcoFlow's second biggest market behind the USA. During Prime Day 2022, EcoFlow was the number one seller in Europe in the eco-friendly energy solution category.

"The EcoFlow DELTA 2 is our next step in our journey to helping families and individuals everywhere unthether themselves from the limitations of fixed power grids and transcend how they generate, store, and use power. EcoFlow will continue to keep pace with the European market's growing demand for renewable energy by continuing to develop innovative and portable energy solutions," said Xing.

Event Details

Dates: Sept 2 to Sept 6, 2022

Times: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. GMT+2

Location: Hall 3.2, Stand 108, Messe Berlin, Berlin, Germany

About EcoFlow

EcoFlow is a portable power and renewable energy solutions company. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has provided peace-of-mind to customers in over 100 markets through its portable power stations and eco-friendly accessories. EcoFlow's mission is to reinvent the way the world accesses energy by creating quiet, lighter, and longer-lasting renewable batteries. EcoFlow's products are now available in 40 countries and regions across Europe, supported by a network of over 400 local retailers.

For more information, please visit EcoFlow's websites:

Germany: de.ecoflow.com

United Kingdom: www.ecoflow.com/uk

France: fr.ecoflow.com

Other European countries: eu.ecoflow.com

Media Contact

Donna Ding

EcoFlow PR Manager, Europe

donna.ding@ecoflow.com

+86 18138401354

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1874052/EcoFlow_Attends_IFA_2022_Debut_New_DELTA_2_Portable_Power.jpg
Successful automotive parts distributor leverages Syncron Retail Inventory to boost efficiency and customer satisfaction for its service business

STOCKHOLM, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Syncron announced today that leading automotive parts distributor, Materom Group, has selected Syncron Retail Inventory to enhance its customer experience while reducing costs by driving process and operational efficiencies.

With almost 25 years in business, Materom has built a loyal customer base on its reputation for reliable, timely service. Having a network of twenty regional warehouses in Romania and being part of Nexus Automotive International Trading Group, Materom distributes parts to car workshops in the local market as well as abroad.

"When we set out to find an inventory management solution, we looked for a flexible application that would enable us to access data and make informed decisions in real time," says Claudiu Boanta, purchasing director, Materom. "After comparing several providers, it was clear that Syncron went beyond having an agile solution to give us deeper visibility so we can access and analyze data in real time to react before it's too late. We're also able to strike the optimal balance between stock rotation and parts availability, so the individual buyer is more efficient in their daily work."

Prior to Syncron Retail Inventory, Materom was using an inventory solution that made it too difficult to access and analyze reports and lacked robust forecasting capabilities. To ensure the right parts are available when and where customers need them, Materom has embraced innovation with partners, like Syncron, to redefine how its customers are served.

In a year when supplier delivery times and costs have been both unpredictable and volatile, Materom also needs an intelligent forecasting tool that automatically factors hundreds of variables to show the short and long-term impact a purchasing decision will have on stock and service levels. Syncron offered the most advanced solution capabilities with proven expertise driving business results for aftermarket automotive companies.

"With more products and supply chain disruptions, and higher customer expectations than ever before, today's automotive distributors face an especially complex and competitive landscape," says Anneliese Schulz, chief revenue officer, Syncron. "Syncron's solutions were designed to transform these complex challenges into competitive differentiators and enable respected companies, like Materom, to realize the utmost potential of their aftermarket business. We're thrilled to partner with Materom to drive greater efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction for years to come."

To learn more about Syncron Inventory for Retail, visit: www.syncron.com/retail-inventory

About Materom

MATEROM is a dynamic family business with almost 25 years of experience. It is in top 3 among the auto parts distributors with a 100% Romanian capital. Full of passion, we act with professionalism and excellence in the field of import and export of auto parts. MATEROM Group comprises, beside the aftermarket spare parts distribution, the dealerships of Mercedes-Benz, Opel, Skoda, Dacia, Renault, Nissan, and Volkswagen. Materom is part of the Nexus Automotive International alliance in 2015 and it represents the NexusAuto service concept in Romania. Our mission is to contribute to the development of Romania - economically, spiritually, and socially. We aim to be an active party to the development of a healthy business environment in our country, through ethics, professionalism, and results.

About Syncron

Syncron empowers leading manufacturers and distributors to capitalize on the world's new service economy. We improve aftermarket business profitability, optimize working capital, increase customer loyalty, and enable customers to successfully transition to service-driven business models. With industry-leading investments in AI and ML, Syncron offers the first innovative, customer-endorsed, end-to-end intelligent Service Lifecycle Management solution portfolio. Delivered on our Connected Service Experience (CSX) platform, our solutions encompass service parts inventory, price, warranty, service contract, and field service management. It's no secret that world's top brands trust Syncron, the largest privately-owned global leader in intelligent SLM SaaS solutions. For more, visit syncron.com.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1832423/Syncron_Logo.jpg


LONDON (dpa-AFX) - Monks Investment Trust Plc (MNKS.L), on Tuesday, announced that its Board has agreed to the heads of terms for a proposed combination of the Company with the assets of The Independent Investment Trust plc.



The combination, if approved by each company's shareholders, will be implemented through a scheme of reconstruction pursuant to section 110 of the Insolvency Act 1986, resulting in the voluntary liquidation of IIT and the rollover of its assets into the company in exchange for the issue of new Monks shares to IIT shareholders, with IIT shareholders offered the option of a full or partial cash exit.



Shareholders in Monks will benefit from an increase in scale, allowing the enlarged Monks to spread fixed costs over a larger cost base, while also improving liquidity and aiding marketing; an inflow of cash to Monks's portfolio which can be redeployed at a potentially advantageous stage of the performance, discount and market cycles; and the addition to Monks's portfolio of a ready-assembled collection of UK growth stocks which the Managers have assessed for potential upside and portfolio fit.







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MONKS INVESTMENT TRUST-Aktie komplett kostenlos handeln - auf Smartbroker.de
Industrial Civil Works Contract Award at the Araguaia Nickel Project

LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Horizonte Minerals Plc (AIM:HZM)(TSX:HZM), the nickel development company with assets in Brazil, is pleased to announce that it has awarded the industrial civil works contract for the construction of its 100%-owned Araguaia Nickel Project ("Araguaia" or the "Project") to Companhia Paranaense de Construcao S.A. ("Copa").

Copa is a leading Brazilian construction company with extensive experience in mining projects and civil infrastructure. It was also awarded the earthworks services contract at the Project earlier this year (see announcement dated 11 May 2022). Copa has demonstrated a safe and reliable operating performance at the Project to date, with a track record of creating employment opportunities for local community members. All its contracted services have been delivered ahead of schedule. Copa's track record is complemented by its extensive experience in delivering civil construction projects for several large mining and industrial clients across Brazil. These projects range from roads, viaducts, hydroelectric power plants, ports, dam's and industrial plants. In total the company has installed a portfolio of more than 2.5 billion cubic meters of concrete throughout Brazil and all with the requisite quality management certification.

The award of the industrial civil works contract is another important step in the construction of Araguaia. The scope of the contract incorporates the supply and installation of the process plant foundations and related civil works for the supporting infrastructure. The contract scope has been designed to leverage Copa's reduced mobilisation requirements and familiarity with the Project. This will assist to accelerate the installation of the foundations for the furnace allowing commencement of furnace shell installation during Q4 2022.

The civils package will also see Copa undertaking the installation of all engineered and concrete structures for the processing facility, including piling, structural foundations, concrete slabs, and bolted connections to enable process equipment to be directly installed.

A full progress update on Araguaia will be provided in September.

Jeremy Martin, CEO of Horizonte, commented:

"The extension of our relationship with Copa, as a partner in the development of Araguaia, is another key milestone in the Project's construction schedule. With Copa's strong track record of successfully delivering infrastructure and mining projects across Brazil, as well as the safe and effective delivery of our earthworks contract at Araguaia, the award of this contract enables us to continue Araguaia's progress with confidence."

For further information, visitwww.horizonteminerals.com or contact:

Horizonte Minerals plc Jeremy Martin (CEO) info@horizonteminerals.com +44 (0) 203 356 2901 Peel Hunt LLP (Nominated Adviser & Joint Broker) Ross Allister David McKeown +44 (0)20 7418 8900 BMO (Joint Broker) Thomas Rider Pascal Lussier Duquette Andrew Cameron +44 (0) 20 7236 1010 Tavistock (Financial PR) Emily Moss Cath Drummond +44 (0) 20 7920 3150

About Horizonte Minerals:

Horizonte Minerals plc (AIM & TSX: HZM) is developing two 100%-owned, Tier 1 projects in Para state, Brazil - the Araguaia Nickel Project and the Vermelho Nickel-Cobalt Project. Both projects are large scale, high-grade, low-cost, low-carbon and scalable. Araguaia is fully funded and in construction. The project will produce 29,000 tonnes of nickel per year to supply the stainless steel market. Vermelho is at feasibility study stage and will produce 25,000 tonnes of nickel and 1,250 tonnes of cobalt to supply the EV battery market. Horizonte's combined near-term production profile of over 50,000 tonnes of nickel per year positions the Company as a globally significant nickel producer. Horizonte is developing a new nickel district in Brazil that will benefit from established infrastructure, including hydroelectric power available in the Carajas Mining District.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION

Except for statements of historical fact relating to the Company, certain information contained in this press release constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the ability of the Company to complete the acquisition of equipment as described herein, statements with respect to the potential of the Company's current or future property mineral projects; the ability of the Company to complete a positive feasibility study regarding the second RKEF line at Araguaia on time, or at all, the success of exploration and mining activities; cost and timing of future exploration, production and development; the costs and timing for delivery of the equipment to be purchased as described herein, the estimation of mineral resources and reserves and the ability of the Company to achieve its goals in respect of growing its mineral resources; the realization of mineral resource and reserve estimates and achieving production in accordance with the Company's potential production profile or at all. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to risks related to: the inability of the Company to complete the acquisition of equipment contemplated herein, on time or at all, the ability of the Company to complete a positive feasibility study regarding the implementation of a second RKEF line at Araguaia on the timeline contemplated or at all, exploration and mining risks, competition from competitors with greater capital; the Company's lack of experience with respect to development-stage mining operations; fluctuations in metal prices; uninsured risks; environmental and other regulatory requirements; exploration, mining and other licences; the Company's future payment obligations; potential disputes with respect to the Company's title to, and the area of, its mining concessions; the Company's dependence on its ability to obtain sufficient financing in the future; the Company's dependence on its relationships with third parties; the Company's joint ventures; the potential of currency fluctuations and political or economic instability in countries in which the Company operates; currency exchange fluctuations; the Company's ability to manage its growth effectively; the trading market for the ordinary shares of the Company; uncertainty with respect to the Company's plans to continue to develop its operations and new projects; the Company's dependence on key personnel; possible conflicts of interest of directors and officers of the Company, and various risks associated with the legal and regulatory framework within which the Company operates, together with the risks identified and disclosed in the Company's disclosure record available on the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, including without limitation, the annual information for of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2020, the Araguaia Report and the Vermehlo Report. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: Horizonte Minerals PLC

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711348/Horizonte-Minerals-PLC-Announces-Industrial-Civil-Works-Contract-Award
Board member Heike Heiligtag has informed the Board of Directors of REC Silicon ASA that she resigns from the Company's Board of Directors with an effective date of August 10, 2022.

Koo Yung Lee, Chairman of the Board, thanks Heike for her contributions to the Board during her tenure.

The Company's nomination committee has been advised of the resignation. The remaining Board of Directors still constitute a quorum.



For further information, please contact:

James A. May II, Chief Executive Officer & President

Phone +1 509 989 1023

Email: james.may@recsilicon.com

About REC Silicon

REC Silicon is a leading producer of advanced silicon materials, delivering high-purity polysilicon and silicon gas to the solar and electronics industries worldwide. We combine over 30 years of experience and proprietary technology with the needs of our customers, with annual production capacity of more than 20,000 MT of polysilicon from our two US-based manufacturing plants. Listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ticker: RECSI), the Company is headquartered in Lysaker, Norway.

For more information, go to: www.recsilicon.com

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
Believes Proposed Merger materially undervalues Capricorn

Standalone value at least 330 pence per share

Calls for Board to initiate a strategic review

LONDON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Palliser Capital ("Palliser"), whose interests in Capricorn Energy PLC (LSE: CNE) ("Capricorn" or the "Company") make it one of the Company's largest investors, today sent a letter to the Board to communicate its concerns surrounding its proposed merger with Tullow Oil PLC ("Tullow") (the "Proposed Merger"). Palliser believes that the Proposed Merger is one-sided in favour of Tullow, lacks a meaningful strategic rationale and is a disappointing step backwards in ESG. The letter calls on Capricorn to immediately withdraw its recommendation for the Proposed Merger and initiate a transparent and meaningful strategic review with the best interests of Capricorn shareholders firmly in mind.

Full text of the letter follows:

9 August 2022

Dear Members of the Board

Proposed All-Share Combination of Capricorn Energy PLC (the "Company" or "Capricorn") and Tullow Oil PLC ("Tullow") (the "Proposed Merger")

We write to you on behalf of Palliser Capital Master Fund Limited (together with its affiliates, "Palliser", "we", "us" or "our") about the Proposed Merger and path forward for the Company. Having closely monitored the Company for well over a decade, Palliser currently holds interests in more than 5% of Capricorn[1], making us one of the Company's largest investors and demonstrating our conviction in the value embedded within Capricorn.

Introduction

We are grateful to the members of the Board and senior management team with whom we have exchanged views on a number of occasions since our letter of 1 July, including Company Chair Nicoletta Giadrossi, CEO Simon Thomson, CFO James Smith and Senior Independent Director Peter Kallos.

While we have listened carefully to and reflected deeply upon the perspectives that you have shared with us, we continue to strongly disagree with your view that the Proposed Merger represents an accretive step forward for the Company that equally benefits Capricorn and Tullow. Rather than the touted "merger of equals", the Proposed Merger appears to us to be a poorly disguised nil-premium takeover of Capricorn by Tullow through which Capricorn's substantial net cash balance, available after years of arbitration, would be applied towards repaying Tullow's junk-rated creditors, with zero value attributed to Capricorn's remaining high-quality and unencumbered assets. We believe this outcome falls far short of what Capricorn's long-suffering shareholders deserve.

The Proposed Merger materially undervalues Capricorn and its straightforward asset base, which includes a substantial net cash position, low-risk contingent receivables and a high-quality, opportunity-rich Egyptian portfolio. Based on our own in-depth analysis and with the benefit of extensive third-party input, we strongly believe that Capricorn can realise value of at least 330 pence per share, representing a 50% upside to the current share price and a 67% upside to the terms of the Proposed Merger.

As you will be aware, we are not alone in our concerns - a significant quorum of other investors are equally troubled by the flawed logic of pursuing this pathway to reduced value, heightened risk and increased leverage. Therefore, and in light of the Board's reluctance to correct course, we believe that a wider public dialogue is urgently required to ensure a full, frank and fair exchange between all market participants.

For the reasons outlined in this letter, we believe the essential - only legitimate - course of action is for you, the Capricorn Board, to immediately withdraw your recommendation for the Proposed Merger and initiate a transparent and meaningful strategic review with the best interests of Capricorn shareholders firmly in mind.

Numerous Points of Concern

As we explain in more detail below, we have multiple concerns regarding the Proposed Merger:

Surrender of shareholder value : in our view the terms fall well short of intrinsic value, attributing zero consideration to Capricorn's non-cash assets and representing a give-away equivalent to almost two-thirds of the Company's market capitalization;

: in our view the terms fall well short of intrinsic value, attributing zero consideration to Capricorn's non-cash assets and representing a give-away equivalent to almost two-thirds of the Company's market capitalization; Illogical exchange of risk : Capricorn shareholders are faced with a discounted exchange of their existing exposure to a low-risk portfolio of highly predictable assets into a speculative investment in one of the worst performing and riskiest companies in the EMEA oil & gas sector;

: Capricorn shareholders are faced with a discounted exchange of their existing exposure to a low-risk portfolio of highly predictable assets into a speculative investment in one of the worst performing and riskiest companies in the EMEA oil & gas sector; Bail-out for Tullow : the Proposed Merger constitutes a one-sided deal in favour of Tullow, allowing it to de-lever its stressed balance sheet via what we see as a backdoor rights issue, incredibly at a premium to its current share price;

: the Proposed Merger constitutes a one-sided deal in favour of Tullow, allowing it to de-lever its stressed balance sheet via what we see as a backdoor rights issue, incredibly at a premium to its current share price; Lacks genuine synergies : there are no operational synergies in this combination and the promise of creating a "leading African energy company" strikes us as little more than a marketing ploy;

: there are no operational synergies in this combination and the promise of creating a "leading African energy company" strikes us as little more than a marketing ploy; ESG dilutive : given the substantial increase in the pro-forma oil versus gas weighting of reserves and production, the Proposed Merger represents a disappointing step backwards in Capricorn's ESG profile; and

: given the substantial increase in the pro-forma oil versus gas weighting of reserves and production, the Proposed Merger represents a disappointing step backwards in Capricorn's ESG profile; and Backpedals on promised capital allocation: Capricorn shareholders are being deprived of the promised and long-overdue return or accretive deployment of hard-fought cash recovered through the settlement of the Indian tax arbitration.

We see no reason why undervalued Capricorn shares should be used as currency for what implicitly appears to be a high-risk bet by management on the idea that Tullow's future prospects are misunderstood by the market. In reality, Capricorn shareholders themselves can already freely and easily invest in Tullow shares directly on the open market if they wish to do so.

A surrender of material Capricorn shareholder value

The Proposed Merger consideration of 3.8068 new Tullow Shares for each Capricorn share values Capricorn at zero enterprise value and implies a price of 197 pence per share for Capricorn shareholders, reflecting a 1% discount to the undisturbed closing price on 31 May 2022 and a 10% discount to the closing Capricorn share price on 8 August 2022 - a clear reflection of the wider market's view that the terms of the Proposed Merger are wholly unsatisfactory and that shareholders are unconvinced by any claims of value accretion.

Based on our own detailed analysis, we firmly believe that Capricorn's standalone value is at least 330 pence per share -representing a 50% upside to the current share price and implying thatthe Proposed Merger represents a value give-away of over US$500 million, equivalent to almost two-thirds of the Company's current market capitalisation.

Capricorn Net Asset Value (US$ million)( [i] ) - Standalone Excluding Egypt Value Optimisation Initiatives

Note: Please refer to notes at the end of the release for underlying assumptions and relevant detail

Given that over four-fifths of Capricorn's net asset value is comprised of cash and near-term contingent receivables, the terms of the Proposed Merger imply that Tullow is paying nothing for Capricorn's Western Desert assets in Egypt. This is despite Capricorn acquiring these assets for US$323 million in net up-front cash consideration less than 12 months ago, at a time of materially lower commodity prices and as part of a competitive auction process.

Egypt is Africa's largest consumer of energy and is endowed with vast hydrocarbon resources, but the country is presently undersupplied with natural gas from its low-cost domestic onshore assets and is forced to make up the difference with significantly more expensive imported volumes from abroad. Against this backdrop and with the aid of the supportive fiscal and regulatory environment that exists in the country today, we believe that Capricorn is in a unique position to deliver value from the multiple and scalable investment opportunities that exist within its highly strategic Egyptian asset base.

The market had expected to hear more about such value upside opportunities at a dedicated Capital Markets Day on Egypt which management had foreshadowed to take place in May, but this event ultimately never came to pass for reasons unknown to Capricorn shareholders.

An illogical exchange of low-risk assets for speculative paper

Capricorn's net asset value is highly transparent and straightforward to assess: net cash is unencumbered, contingent proceeds are considerably de-risked and the Egyptian portfolio comprises proven legacy assets underpinned by low-cost, fixed price gas production with incremental optionality from oil sales.

In exchange, the Board's recommendation is for a deal with a company with an extended track record of missed targets and broken promises. Tullow's assets are in higher risk jurisdictions, involve significant development uncertainty and are longer-dated - the market cannot be expected to attribute Capricorn's equivalent valuation framework to Tullow's blue-sky forecasts.

From a Total Shareholder Return ("TSR")[2] perspective, Tullow has been amongst the worst performing investments in the EMEA oil & gas sector over the past five years, with TSR of -72% versus Capricorn at +19%, Brent at +85% and an E&P Peers Average[3]of +154%.

Total Shareholder Return - Last 5 Years (US$ Terms)

Critically, Tullow is a company that only last year was still warning its shareholders of a significant risk that it may not survive as a going concern, following chronic underperformance of its flagship deepwater fields in Ghana, the abrupt departure of its senior management team and a subsequent fire sale of assets to avoid insolvency.

A one-sided deal that benefits Tullow alone through a de-leveraging of its stressed balance sheet

We regard the Proposed Merger as a transaction structured exclusively for the benefit of Tullow and its creditors. Tullow is highly indebted, has no distributable reserves, has a portfolio of riskier, longer-dated assets and is facing acute funding challenges, including a need to refinance high yield debt carrying an onerous 10.25% coupon.

The terms of the Proposed Merger would allow Tullow to raise significant funds by almost doubling its share count via the issue of new equity at an effective premium to its share price - a truly incredible outcome given its poor track record and lack of financial health. We find it highly improbable that Tullow could raise over US$700 million[4] through an equivalent rights issue without offering investors a sizeable discount to its current share price.

By providing access to Capricorn's cash on a deeply discounted basis, the Proposed Merger would represent a lifeline for Tullow, potentially allowing it to (i) satisfy its creditors with a meaningful repayment of its outstanding junk rated high-yield debt; (ii) deliver on ambitious investment targets in Ghana; (iii) address scepticism from rumoured farm-in partners on its capacity to fund future capex for its stranded oil project in Kenya; and (iv) finally resume paying dividends to its shareholders.

Inexcusably, Capricorn shareholders are faced with the prospect of giving up their cash to shoulder the burden of servicing this highly speculative turnaround story, so it is unsurprising to us that a number of equity research analysts at market-leading investment banks have similarly denounced the one-sided nature of this transaction.

A lack of wider strategic rationale or operational synergies and a backward step for ESG

From a business and operational perspective, the Capricorn and Tullow oil and gas interests are, aside from coincidentally being located on the same large continent, disparate with no coherent logic or obvious operational synergies in combining onshore Egypt and deepwater West African assets. Management's vague promise of creating a "leading African energy company" strikes us as naive and subsequent attempts to justify this vision to us have been unconvincing to say the least.

We also question whether claimed cost synergies, which are used to endorse the deal, should in fact be characterised as synergies at all. These potential savings do not relate to the operating asset organisations across the combined group, but instead to reductions within board, corporate and group-level administrative functions.

With Tullow having already been forced to implement significant cost reductions over the last two years and given the Proposed Merger is expected to result in a material downsizing of Capricorn's head office and the removal of its listing, we wonder whether the vast majority of claimed cost synergies will come from an effective liquidation of Capricorn's bloated administrative function, particularly noting that Capricorn's recurring administrative expenses last year were US$43 million as compared to total expected synergies of US$50 million. If so, this would be yet another indication that this "merger of equals" is in fact a disguised nil-premium takeover of Capricorn.

Crucially, the Proposed Merger is also a backwards step for Capricorn from an environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) standpoint. Whilst the parties claim that the combined group will have a strong commitment to ESG standards, in our view, the reality is that the deal will pull Capricorn adrift from its current positive ESG trajectory - substantially increasing its oil versus gas-weighting given that the pro-forma portfolio by 2P reserves is 75% liquids-weighted versus 66% gas-weighted for Capricorn standalone.

An excuse to backpedal on the promised accretive deployment or return of long-awaited cash reserves

The bigger picture is both confusing and troubling to us, not least because the Proposed Merger is sharply out of step with recent pronouncements by management on the Company's future.

For example, in the latest Annual Report, it was stated that "Capricorn will use its balance sheet strength to pursue value accretive acquisition opportunities" and that following the acquisition of the Egyptian assets from Shell, management saw "numerous other opportunities to acquire high-quality upstream assets from legacy operators". We and other shareholders understood this to mean that the Company would be targeting more high-quality disposal candidates from the Majors. Separately, in our recent bilateral discussions, you indicated to us several times that following an extensive search over the last 18 months, the Proposed Merger "is the most attractive transaction available" to Capricorn.

So significant are the Proposed Merger's shortcomings, that these comments lead us to the view that there is, in fact, no deal worth pursuing . Instead, shareholders' interests would be far better served by simply returning the Company's surplus net cash balance to Capricorn shareholders, who have by now been waiting long enough to realise the full value from the sale of Cairn India. This would be in line with commitments made by the CEO to investors at a fireside discussion earlier this year, when in relation to Capricorn's recently repatriated cash balance, he proclaimed that the Company will "either return it or do something else with it". Suffice to say, Capricorn shareholders certainly did not imagine that this "something else" might be to give the cash away to Tullow at a significant discount.

Frankly speaking, against the backdrop of such clear and recent statements of intent, and given the otherwise inexplicable push for this deal, we are left questioning whether the close relationships between the Tullow and Capricorn executive teams, management fatigue and/or other factors unrelated to enhancing shareholder value may have also played a part in the genesis of the Proposed Merger.

Next Steps

All matters considered, we simply fail to understand the Board's recommendation to vote in favour of the Proposed Merger and it is easy to see why Capricorn shareholders feel let down and misled.

Given the level of shareholder dissent against the Proposed Merger, it strikes us as highly improbable that you will garner sufficient votes for this transaction to be approved. We also do not believe this deal can realistically be improved by Tullow because it is restricted from meaningfully increasing its stock consideration without an unpalatable level of dilution for its shareholders, and unable to afford a cash component, which would also remove the underlying strategic rationale of the deal for Tullow in the first place.

In the circumstances, we believe that the best way forward is for you, the members of the Capricorn Board, to immediately withdraw your recommendation for the Proposed Merger and instead to initiate a transparent and meaningful strategic review that is thoroughly benchmarked, on a risk-adjusted basis, versus the true yardstick against which any alternative path should be assessed, which is the considerable shareholder value which could be realised in the near-term from a monetisation of Capricorn's Egyptian assets and the return of residual net cash to shareholders.

Every day that the Board fails to take action serves only to exacerbate the level of value destruction that Capricorn shareholders are faced with through unnecessary deal-related expenses and missed alternative investment opportunities.

We have dedicated significant resources to our analysis and we appreciate the Board's time in considering our views. Capricorn is at a critical moment and the stakes are high for shareholders. We believe that the Board should waste no time in promptly demonstrating its willingness and openness to exploring alternative pathways to maximising shareholder value.

For and on behalf of

Palliser Capital (UK) Ltd

By: James Smith, Chief Investment Officer

Disclaimer

This document has been issued by Palliser Capital (UK) Limited (" Palliser UK "), which is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 13135419 and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority of the U.K. (" FCA "). Nothing within this document promotes, or is intended to promote, and may not be construed as promoting, any funds managed or advised directly or indirectly by Palliser UK (the " Palliser Funds ").

This document is for discussion and informational purposes only. The views expressed herein represent the opinions of Palliser UK and its affiliates (collectively, " Palliser ") as of the date of this document, which may change. Palliser reserves the right to change or modify any of its opinions expressed in this document at any time and for any reason and expressly disclaims any obligation to correct, update or revise the information contained herein or to otherwise provide any additional or updated materials at any time.

This document does not constitute (a) "Investment Research" as defined by the FCA Handbook, (b) "Investment Advice" as defined by the FCA Handbook, (c) a "Financial Promotion" for the purposes of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, (d) an offer or invitation to buy or sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell, or to otherwise engage in any investment business or receive any investment services in respect of, any security or other financial instrument and no legal relations shall be created by its issue, or (e) an "Investment Recommendation" as defined by Regulation (EU) 596/2014 and by Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of U.K. domestic law by virtue of section 3 of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (" EUWA 2018 ") including as amended by regulations issued under section 8 of EUWA 2018. This document is not, and may not be construed to be, legal, tax, investment, financial or other advice. No investment decision should be made on the basis of this document and no reliance placed on the information set out in this document. Each recipient should review all documents and materials relevant to any investment decision regarding matters described herein and seek appropriate independent advice from their own legal counsel and tax and financial advisers before making any investment decisions.

All of the information contained herein is based on publicly available information with respect to Capricorn Energy plc (the " Company ") and Tullow Oil plc (" Tullow "), including public filings and disclosures made by the Company and/or Tullow and other sources, as well as Palliser's analysis of such publicly available information. Palliser has relied upon and assumed, without independent verification, the reliability, accuracy and completeness of all data and information available from public sources, and no representation or warranty is made that any such data or information is accurate. Palliser recognises that there may be confidential or otherwise non-public information with respect to the Company that could alter the opinions of Palliser were such information known.

Palliser has not sought or obtained consent from any third party to use any statements or information contained herein. Any such statements or information should not be viewed as indicating the support of such third party for the views expressed herein. All trademarks and trade names used herein are the exclusive property of their respective owners.

No representation, warranty or undertaking, express or implied, is given and no responsibility or liability or duty of care is or will be accepted by Palliser or any of its directors, officers, employees, agents, or advisors (each a " Palliser Person ") concerning: (i) this document, its contents and the accuracy, fairness or completeness of any information and opinions contained herein; or (ii) the provision of any further information, whether by way of update to the information and opinions contained in this document or otherwise after the date of this document. No representation, warranty or undertaking (express or implied) is provided by any Palliser Person that Palliser's investment processes or investment objectives will or are likely to be achieved or successful or that Palliser's investments will make any profit or will not sustain losses. Past performance is not indicative of future results. To the fullest extent permitted by law, none of the Palliser Persons will be responsible for any losses, whether direct, indirect or consequential, including loss of profits, damages, costs, claims or expenses relating to or arising from any person's reliance on this document.

Except for the historical information contained herein, the information and opinions included in this document constitute forward-looking statements, including estimates and projections prepared with respect to, among other things, the Company's anticipated operating performance, the value of the Company's securities, debt or any related financial instruments that are based upon or relate to the value of securities of the Company (collectively, " Company Securities "), the value of Tullow's securities, debt, or any related financial instruments that are based upon or relate to the value of securities of Tullow (collectively, " Tullow Securities "), general economic and market conditions and other future events. You should be aware that all forward-looking statements, estimates and projections are inherently uncertain and subject to significant economic, competitive, and other uncertainties and contingencies and have been included solely for illustrative purposes. Actual results may differ materially from the estimates, projections or assumptions contained herein due to reasons that may or may not be foreseeable. There can be no assurance that the Company Securities or Tullow Securities will trade at the prices that may be implied herein, and there can be no assurance that any estimate, projection or assumption herein is, or will be proven, correct.

No agreement, commitment, understanding or other legal relationship exists or may be deemed to exist between or among Palliser and any other person by virtue of furnishing this document. Palliser is not acting for or on behalf of, and is not providing any advice or service to, any recipient of this document. Palliser is not responsible to any person for providing advice in relation to the subject matter of this document. Before determining on any course of action, any recipient should consider any associated risks and consequences and consult with its own independent advisors as it deems necessary.

The Palliser Funds have a direct or indirect investment in the Company. Palliser therefore has a financial interest in the profitability of the Palliser Funds' positions in the Company. Accordingly Palliser may have conflicts of interest and this document should not be regarded as impartial. Nothing in this document should be taken as any indication of Palliser's current or future trading or voting intentions which may change at any time.

Palliser is in the business of investing and trading in securities. Palliser intends to review its investments in the Company on a continuing basis and depending upon various factors, including without limitation, the Company's financial position and strategic direction, the outcome of any discussions with the Company, overall market conditions, other investment opportunities available to Palliser, and the availability of Company Securities at prices that would make the purchase or sale of Company Securities desirable, Palliser may from time to time (in the open market or in private transactions, including since the inception of Palliser's position) buy, sell, cover, hedge or otherwise change the form or substance of any of its investments (including Company Securities) to any degree in any manner permitted by law and expressly disclaims any obligation to notify others of any such changes. Palliser's interests may consist of various interests in the Company or its equity or debt securities, and such interests may include derivative instruments or short positions, which may comprise all or some of Palliser's interests in the Company. Palliser also reserves the right to take any actions with respect to its investments in the Company as it may deem appropriate, including but not limited to, communicating with other investors, shareholders, industry participants, experts and/or relevant parties with respect to the Company.

This document does not purport to be all-inclusive or to contain all of the information that may be relevant to an evaluation of the Company, Tullow, Company Securities, Tullow Securities or the matters described herein.

Notes

[1] Oil price assumption derived from Brent forward curve as of 8 August 2022; GBP/USD exchange rate of 1.20; 10% discount rate assumption applied; Capricorn share count of c.315 million shares as per latest RNS disclosure.

YE2022e Net Cash : Based on Bloomberg consensus estimate as of 8 August 2022.

UK Contingent Proceeds : Earn-out consideration related to completed sale of Catcher and Kraken assets to Waldorf Petroleum; production estimates based on input from leading oil & gas research consultancy.

Senegal Contingent Proceeds : Earn-out consideration related to completed sale of Sangomar asset to Woodside; assumes first oil achieved in 2023 as per Woodside public guidance.

Corporate G&A : Capricorn 2021A recurring departmental expenses & corporate projects (US$43.4 million) capitalised at ~3x multiple.

Other Liabilities : Reflects Capricorn's reported UK decommissioning provisions (US$2.2 million) plus undiscounted remaining exploration commitments in Egypt; assumes 7 wells remaining at estimated US$5.8 million cost per well (implied from North Um Baraka exploration well completed in 2021).

Egypt Producing Assets : Palliser's asset-level cash flow model for Capricorn's Western Desert concessions is based on broker consensus production and cost profiles; reflects value for 2P reserves only; includes oil price-related contingent payments due from Capricorn to Shell as part of the original acquisition.

Egypt Value Opportunity : Reflects upside available to Capricorn from successful de-risking of contingent (2C) resources, modernisation of fiscal terms and other value creation opportunities in Egypt.

Monetisation of CNE Exploration Assets : Reflects potential to monetise Capricorn's global portfolio of exploration licenses in the UK, Israel, Mexico, Suriname and Mauritania.

About Palliser

Palliser Capital is a London-based, global multi-strategy investment firm that applies a value-oriented investment philosophy across a range of strategies and asset classes throughout a variety of global markets. Founded in 2021, Palliser invests on behalf of its institutional investors, which include pension funds, endowments and foundations. Palliser's senior investment team has extensive experience in global equity capital markets.

Media Contact:

Prosek Partners

Pro-Palliser@Prosek.com

+44 785 475 0943

[1] https://www.londonstockexchange.com/news-article/market-news/form-8-3-capricorn-energy-plc/15576070

[2] Cumulative daily TSR calculated over preceding 5-year period as of 8 August 2022 including net dividends reinvested.

[3] E&P Peers: Aker BP, Lundin Energy, Var Energi, Harbour Energy, Kosmos Energy, Energean, DNO, Africa Oil, Serica Energy, EnQuest, Genel Energy, Gulf Keystone Petroleum and Seplat Energy.

[4] Capricorn's estimated net cash balance on 31 December 2022 is U$734 million based on Bloomberg consensus

PDF: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1874826/Palliser_Letter_to_Capricorn.pdf

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1874847/Shareholder_Return.jpg

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1874848/Capricorn_Net_Asset_Value.jpg




OPEX Corporation, a global leader in Next Generation Automation for almost 50 years, is introducing leading-edge Warehouse Automation technology to attendees of IMHX, an intralogistics event for professionals involved in the handling, movement or transportation of goods through the supply chain. IMHX 2022 will be held 5-9 September at the NEC Birmingham.

This will be OPEX's first time exhibiting at IMHX and the first time the company's Sure Sort robotic sorting system will be on display at a trade show in the UK.

"Sure Sort is a scalable and cost-effective alternative to traditional put wall sorting," said Nicolas Dewit, Director of Business Development for Europe, Middle East, and Asia (EMEA), OPEX Warehouse Automation. "It is an ideal ecommerce solution for micro-fulfillment centers, retail stores, and distribution centers that demand a small footprint, high accuracy, speed, and high productivity in a system that does not increase labor."

Sure Sort robotic delivery vehicles, iBOTs, quickly and accurately process up to 2,400 items each hour with as little as three operators, and have the ability to recharge as they travel through the system. Sure Sort will be on display at IMHX 2022 Stand 5D115 where attendees can interact with OPEX operators to better understand how the system can benefit their business.

Used by leading retailers, 3PLs, and distributors for order handling, cross-docking, and parcel sorting, Sure Sort will be installed in several leading UK companies, including Boux Avenue, a part of the Theo Paphitis Retail Group, and third party logistics company, Torque.

OPEX offers a suite of modular, flexible systems that can be customized and easily adapted to meet evolving business needs, including Perfect Pick, an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) that dramatically improves speed, efficiency, and reliability.

IMHX 2022 attendees can experience Perfect Pick HD through a virtual reality tour of a warehouse in which they will pick items using an Oculus headset and guided by OPEX experts.

Ideal for ecommerce fulfillment and micro-fulfillment, Perfect Pick reduces reliance on labor to pick and ship orders in a system that stores inventory securely in self-contained units. High-density racking increases throughput, reliability, and effectiveness while optimizing a warehouse's space with a fleet of iBOTs that access every storage location in the warehouse aisle horizontally and vertically and deliver inventory directly to a workstation, eliminating the need for complicated conveyor systems or transfer equipment.

With generations of industry expertise and a proven track record developing first-class automation capabilities and advanced engineering, OPEX continuously reimagines automation technology to help clients solve their most significant business challenges. For nearly five decades, OPEX has served as a trusted partner, collaborating closely with clients to develop customized, scalable solutions.

About OPEX

OPEX Corporation is a global leader in Next Generation Automation, providing innovative, unique solutions for warehouse, document and mail automation. With headquarters in Moorestown, NJ, USA-and facilities in Pennsauken, NJ; Plano, TX; France; Germany; Switzerland; the United Kingdom; and Australia-OPEX has more than 1,600 employees who are continuously reimagining and delivering customized, scalable technology solutions that solve the business challenges of today and in the future.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005036/en/

Contacts:

For Additional Information

Colleen Ciak

cciak@opex.com

+1 856.727.1100, ext. 5350

+1 856.912.4952 Cell
Record rainfall leaves at least eight people dead in South Korea's capital, Seoul, as the country observes its heaviest downpour in decades that has flooded streets and subway stations.

Some of the victims lost their lives by drowning inside their homes, while others are still reported missing as authorities forecast more rain is coming. Deserted cars and buses could be seen scattered across streets as the water receded on Tuesday.

Record Rainfall in Seoul

Workers also tried to clear uprooted trees, mud, and debris using excavators and blocked off broken roads and pavement. Officials issued landslide warnings in nearly 50 cities and towns across the nation, while 160 hiking paths in Seoul and mountainous Gangwon province were closed off.

In a statement while at the government's emergency headquarters, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said that the heavy rainfall is expected to continue for several more days. He argued that the country needs to maintain its sense of alertness and respond with all-out effort.

The president also said that he directed officials' attention to areas vulnerable to landslides or flooding and to reduce the dangers of roads and facilities that were already damaged to prevent any more casualties, as per ABC News.

Many of Seoul's subway services were back to normal operations, but dozens of roads were still closed due to safety concerns. The country's military was prepared to deploy troops to support recovery efforts if requested by cities or regional governments, said Defense Ministry spokesperson Moon Hong-Sik.

Read Also: Russia-Ukraine War: Vladimir Putin's Army Has Suffered 70,000-80,000 Casualties but 'Achieved None,' Says Pentagon

The heavy rainfall began on Monday morning and continued to intensify through the evening when people then waded through thigh-high waters in the streets of Gangnam. The area is one of the capital's most bustling business and leisure districts. Cars and buses could be seen stuck in mud-brown waters, and commuters were evacuated as water cascaded down the stairs of the Isu subway station.

According to CNN, South Korea's Interior and Safety Ministry said that the three casualties from the eight reported died after they were trapped in a flooded semi-basement. There were also nine reported injuries, said the ministry.

Highest Emergency Alert

After Seoul saw a total of 422 millimeters of rain, authorities were forced to raise the highest Level 3 emergency alert. The city recorded 141.5 millimeters of rain per hour, which is the highest rate that officials have observed since keeping records.

Photographs captured by residents from across the city showed severe flooding with vehicles pushed around. While floodwaters had largely receded by Tuesday morning, cars and buses blocked traffic after being left strewn across roads and sidewalks.

Among the pictures, one particular image sparked both worry and intrigue as it showed a man in a suit sitting on top of a submerged car. Electrical blackouts hit some parts of the city due to the heavy rain and flooded areas. Authorities told residents living in lower areas to evacuate their homes.

These types of intense precipitation events are becoming more common worldwide due to human-caused climate change. A warmer atmosphere is able to hold more moisture and produce heavier rainfall, the Washington Post reported.

Related Article: 'Grease' Star Olivia Newton-John Cause of Death Revealed; John Travolta Shares Emotional Tribute

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - MAX RESOURCE CORP. (TSXV: MAX) (OTC Pink: MXROF) (FSE: M1D2) ("Max" or the "Company") is pleased to report initial results of the high-resolution ground Induced Polarization ("IP") survey. The IP chargeability correlates with the two URU-Central copper-silver rich discoveries and extends at least 200m below surface. The IP data is to be integrated into a detailed geological and structural three-dimensional model for the upcoming drill program (refer to Figure 2 and 3D video below).

First URU-Central discovery, URU-C returned chip channel widths of 9.0m@7.0% copper + 115 g/t silver (new results) and 16.8m@8.3% copper + 146 g/t silver at the lower levels of the prospect. The upper level (+190m vertically above) is +290m along strike and returned 4.9% copper + 41 g/t silver along a 52m ridgeline, true width yet to be determined (new results).

The second discovery, URU-CE is located 750m to the east of URU-C, consisting of substantial sized outcrops with visible copper mineralization +15m wide, trending SSW for +250m of strike, open in all directions (refer to Figures 3 and 4 video).

The Company's wholly owned URU-Central forms part of the 20-km-long URU district, located along the southern portion of the CESAR North 90-km-long copper-silver belt.

"The initial IP survey has achieved the objectives of defining the vertical dimensions of the primary chalcocite-bearing mineralized body at the two URU-Central discoveries. Max is preparing drill sites and planning to mobilize the diamond core drill rig late next month, initiating the first ever drilling program targeting copper-silver mineralization on its URU mining concessions," commented Max CEO, Brett Matich.

"Concurrently, Max continues its regional exploration programs along the 90-km-long CESAR copper-silver belt, utilizing its approximately $20 million treasury," he concluded.

Initial results show the primary chalcocite mineralization extends from surface and displays a clearly defined chargeability contrast with the known unmineralized barren wall rocks. The IP results indicate that the defined surface mineralization appears to continue both along strike and at least 200m vertically at the two parallel discoveries (URU-C and URU-CE).

The high-resolution IP survey generates three-dimensional chargeability and resistivity data to vertical depths of 200m. The initial ongoing 4-line-km survey was conducted over four lines spaced at 100m and with IP stations every 50m and confirmed strong correlation between surface copper-silver rich rock geochemistry and IP chargeability zones.





Figure 1. Location of URU District

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/133218_f5c55a3e94cb5b16_002full.jpg





Figure 2. IP Plan and Section Looking North

(Click the play icon to view IP 3D video)

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/133218_f5c55a3e94cb5b16_003full.jpg





Figure 3: CESAR copper-silver project

To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/133218_f5c55a3e94cb5b16_004full.jpg





Figure 4: URU-C and URU-CE discoveries

(Click the play icon to view URU Discovery video)

To view an enhanced version of Figure 4, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/133218_f5c55a3e94cb5b16_005full.jpg

Cesar Copper Silver Project

CESAR lies along the copper-silver rich 200-kilometre-long Cesar Basin in Northeastern Colombia. This region provides access to major infrastructure resulting from oil & gas and mining operations, including Cerrejon, the largest coal mine in South America, held by global miner Glencore. Max's mining concessions collectively expanse over 212-km.

Max is proactive, with the corporate goal of moving the Cesar basin towards the mining of copper, the key metal for the Colombia's transition to clean energy.

Max executed a 2-year co-operation agreement with Endeavour Silver Corp., which assists Max to significantly expand its 100% owned landholdings at CESAR, Endeavour will hold underlying 0.5% NSR.

Max is focusing on three major copper-silver districts individually located along the CESAR 90-kilometre-long belt, with the objective of expanding the zones and defining drill targets:

The 32-km long AM district with highlight values of 34.4% copper and 305 g/t silver

with highlight values of 34.4% copper and 305 g/t silver The Conejo district , averages 4.9% copper (2% cut-off) over 3.7-km

, averages 4.9% copper (2% cut-off) over 3.7-km The 20-km long URU district returned 7.0m@8.5% copper+143 g/t silver and 16.8m@8.3% copper+146 g/t silver

Geologically, Max interprets the sediment-hosted copper-silver mineralization in the Cesar basin to be analogous to both the Central African Copper Belt (CACB) in the south and the Kupferschiefer deposits in Poland of the CESAR copper-silver belt. Almost 50% of the copper known to exist in sediment-hosted deposits is contained in the CACB, including Ivanhoe Mines Ltd 95-billion-pound Kamoa-Kakula discovery in the Congo.

Kupferschiefer, the world's largest silver producer and Europe's largest copper source, is a mining orebody ranging from 0.5 to 5.5m thick at depths of 500m, grading 1.49% copper and 48.6 g/t silver. The silver yield is almost twice the production of the world's second largest silver mine.

Source: Central African Belt Descriptive models, grade-tonnage relations, and databases for the assessment of sediment-hosted copper deposits with emphasis on deposits in the Central Africa Copperbelt, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia by USGS 2010. Kamoa-Kakula by OreWin March 2020. World Silver Survey 2020 and Kupferschiefer Deposits & Prospects in SW Poland, September 27, 2019. Max cautions investors that the presence of copper mineralization of the Central African Copper Belt and the Polish Kupferschiefer are not necessarily indicative of similar mineralization at CESAR.

Qualified Person

The Company's disclosure of a technical or scientific nature in this news release was reviewed and approved by Tim Henneberry, P Geo (British Columbia), a member of the Max Resource Advisory Board, who serves as a qualified person under the definition of National Instrument 43:101.

About Max Resource Corp.

Max Resource Corp. (TSXV: MAX) is a mineral exploration company advancing the newly discovered district-scale Cesar copper-silver project. The wholly owned Cesar project sits along the Colombian portion of the world's largest producing copper belt (Andean belt), with world class infrastructure and the presence of global majors (Glencore and Chevron).

In addition, Max controls the RT Gold project (100% earn-in) in Peru, encompassing a bulk tonnage primary gold porphyry zone, and 3-km to the NW, a gold bearing massive sulphide zone. Historic drilling in 2001, returned values ranging 3.1 to 118.1 g/t gold over core lengths ranging from 2.2 to 36.0-metres.

Source: NI 43:101 Geological Report Rio Tabaconas Gold Project for Golden Alliance Resources Corp. by George Sivertz, Oct.3, 2011

For more information visit: https://www.maxresource.com/

For additional information contact:

Tim McNulty

E: info@maxresource.com

T: (604) 290-8100

Rahim Lakha

E: rahim@bluesailcapital.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release

Except for statements of historic fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the TSXV. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the commercialization plans for Max Resources Corp. described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties that could affect financial results is contained in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedar.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133218
Roaming and Monetisation Continue as Core Service Provider Challenges

A new report from Kaleido Intelligence, a leading connectivity market intelligence and consulting firm, has found that cellular LPWAN (Low Power Wide Area Networks consisting of NB-IoT and LTE-M) connectivity revenue will grow over twofold over the next 5 years, reaching $2.3 billion, compared to less than $900 million in 2022.

ACCESS A FREE INFOGRAPHIC WITH KEY RESEARCH FINDINGS HERE

The new report, NB-IoT LTE-M: Strategies Forecasts, found that China will account for approximately 55% of cellular LPWAN connectivity revenues in 2027, due to continued strong growth in NB-IoT deployments. The rest of the world will see LTE-M edge NB-IoT in terms of connection installed base, reaching 51% market share by the end of the forecast period, due to LTE-M's more direct incorporation into cellular standards.

Cellular LPWAN Roaming to Gain Traction from 2024

International roaming is a critical factor in supporting the growth of NB-IoT and LTE-M, and the lack of widespread roaming agreements thus far has hampered the growth of cellular LPWAN outside of China. Nevertheless, this landscape is changing, with an increasing number of agreements having been concluded to facilitate regional roaming.

Europe is expected to become a key LPWAN roaming region, with roughly a third of all LPWAN connections roaming outbound by the end of 2027.

Kaleido expects significant traction for roaming LPWAN to build from 2024 onwards, as PSM/eDRX modes are more broadly implemented in roaming agreements. Additionally, this year will see increasing operator migration towards the Billing and Charging Evolution (BCE) standard, which will enhance the opportunity to charge cellular LPWAN connectivity more effectively in roaming scenarios.

Strategy Shifts Needed for Monetisation

Monetisation in general is a problem for cellular LPWAN. With data rates low across the ecosystem, traditional operator monetisation strategies yield little revenue, with the average connection only expected to bring in 16 cents per month in 2022, declining to less than 10 cents in 2027 and approaching $1 per year on average for LPWAN connectivity.

Operators and connectivity providers must embrace initiatives such as BCE and VAS enablement in order to make this area of the IoT more profitable, and thereby increase investment in the sector.

James Moar, Principal Analyst at Kaleido remarked: "LPWAN has a delicate balancing act to maintain. Data-based monetisation has been shown to be uneconomical for network operators. Connectivity providers need to look to the BCE specification, non-cellular billable metrics and VAS to make LPWAN a more lucrative opportunity, while keeping the costs of connectivity itself low enough to keep the technology appealing to end users."

VIEW THE FULL PRESS RELEASE ON OUR WEBSITE

About Kaleido Intelligence

Kaleido Intelligence is a specialist consulting and market research firm with a proven track record delivering telecom research at the highest level. Kaleido Intelligence is the only research company addressing mobile roaming in its entirety, covering:

Data Forecasts by Market

Historical Forecast Viewpoints

Competitive Intelligence

Strategic Insight

Trend Analysis

Research is led by expert analysts, each with significant experience delivering telco research and insights that matter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005069/en/

Contacts:

Jon King

Chief Commercial Officer

Jon.king@kaleidointelligence.com
Milani deploys its first GenCell BOX hydrogen-to-power long-duration backup power solution at its Italian Corporate HQ to Demonstrate Partners' Complementary Offering for Building Decarbonization

PETAH TIKVA, Israel, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- GenCell Energy, (TASE: GNCL), the leading provider of hydrogen and ammonia to power fuel cell solutions, is proud to announce entering a market cooperation with Milani S.p.A., a leading Italian provider of electrical and ELV systems engineering, installation and maintenance for European commercial and industrial (C&I) assets. The partners have joined forces to maximize market penetration of GenCell's zero-emission hydrogen-to-power and ammonia-to-power alkaline fuel cell technologies to power critical applications in C&I buildings throughout Italy and across Europe.

A flexible system integrator in the electrical and building automation space, Milani has accumulated extensive experience working with hydrogen and influential reference customers. Milani has successfully deployed its first GenCell BOX long-duration backup power system at its corporate headquarters at the outskirts of Milan to demonstrate to C&I customers how complementary solutions integrating GenCell and Milani technologies deliver maximum building decarbonization.

"In alignment with our 360 solution strategy incorporating efficient, energy-saving plants, Li-ion battery storage technology, IoT solutions, advanced BMS software and innovative security access control systems, and in compliance with environmental, social and governmental (ESG) regulations and policies that are becoming increasingly strict in cities across Europe, we have made a strategic decision to incorporate GenCell's innovative, zero-emission fuel cell technologies into our solution portfolio to deliver resilient, sustainable decarbonization systems to our C&I customers and to significantly grow our joint install base," comments Oreste Milani CEO, Milani S.p.A.

"We are extremely encouraged by the interest and cooperation we are receiving from the proficient and experienced energy engineers at Milani," comments Rami Reshef, CEO GenCell. "With deep knowledge of European design and engineering preferences, culture and market trends and a proactive 360? approach to customers and designers that combines business initiative and creativity with tested, certified methods and practices - we believe that Milani has the "X factor" that GenCell invests in all our solutions and programs to go the extra mile; together we will successfully drive urban decarbonization across European cities to advance our shared carbon neutrality objectives."

About Milani S.p.A.

Since 1964, Milani S.p.A. provides engineering, installation and maintenance of electrical and ELV systems, with customised solutions and by using a proactive approach toward customers and designers. With a heritage of 50+ years of experience and a mission to always offer maximum satisfaction to its customers, Milani offers its customers a tested method that combines high flexibility with a 360 approach for every project. These are the distinguishing features of a customer service which is developed, step by step, from the engineering phase to the conclusion of works, guaranteeing at all times rapid and efficient maintenance controls. Following a certification process started in 1998, in 2004 the company relocated to its current headquarters on the outskirts of Milan. As a consequence of a contraction of the construction industry, from 2011 Milani has diversified its strategy, approaching the alternative energy sector and looking at foreign markets as a potential development vehicle.

About GenCell Energy

GenCell Energy (TASE: GNCL) develops total green power solutions based on reliable, zero-emission alkaline fuel cells and green ammonia-to-energy technology which deliver uninterrupted power to help the world SayNoToDiesel and transition to clean energy. The ability to produce not only clean power from GenCell's fuel cells, but also the green fuel on which the fuel cells run, sets GenCell in a far superior position as a well-to-wheel total green energy solution provider. GenCell delivers resilient, robust and weather-resistant backup power for utilities, telecom and other mission-critical applications which have been deployed in 22 countries. Our hydrogen-on-demand solution provides primary power for off-grid and poor-grid sites, as well as for rural electrification. GenCell Energy numbers more than 130 employees, including veterans of space and submarine projects. The Company is headquartered in Israel with a worldwide distribution and support network and retains unique intellectual property that includes patents, trade secrets and know-how.

Contacts: Paola Quadri Milani S.p.A. Tel +39 039 9280246 info@milanigiovanni.it www.milanigiovanni.it Shelli Zargary GenCell Energy Tel: +972 54 5617161 shelliz@gencellenergy.com www.gencellenergy.com Babel PR Tel: +44 (0)74 3600 2058 gencell@babelpr.com

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1874880/Milani_GenCell_cooperation_illustration.jpg
The "Germany Cold Chain Logistics Market Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2022 2027)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The German cold chain logistics market is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 7% during the forecast period of 2020-2025. The demand for cold chain is due to the growth in the organized food retail industry, demand for processed food, increased health expenditure.

The regulatory updates in the country are further expected to push the demand for refrigerated logistics in terms of huge transportation, development of expanded and modern storage spaces in order to complement the changes.

Key Market Trends

Pharmaceutical Industry Demand for Advanced Cold-Chain Services

Germany is one of the most important biotech locations worldwide. The turnover of dedicated biotechnology companies reached to more than 4.5 billion euros in 2019, the highest figure since 2005. The expenditure on R&D in the country, which already exceeded one billion Euro in 2015, continued to rise to EUR 1.2 billion by the end of 2018. Small and medium-sized biotechnology companies (SMEs), pharmaceutical SMEs and multinational companies whether jointly or alone are bringing about promising innovations.

As the sector continues to grow, the pharmaceutical companies are looking beyond traditional markets for globalized, traceable, secure and compliant supply chains providing services including cold-chain solutions, storage in multiple temperature zones, reverse logistics and advanced tracking technologies, which ensure total supply chain visibility, and reporting on merchandise flows across all modes of transport.

Brexit Surging the Demand of Refrigerated Logistics

Germany is the United Kingdom's one of the major food exporters comprising around 14% of its major food and drink imports. It exports over EUR 700 million worth of meat, fruits and vegetables to the United Kingdom every year. Germany also imports perishables from the United Kingdom, which after Brexit is expected to be cost inflated as a result of high tariffs. With no-deal Brexit, the German companies will require to establish new trade relationships with potential trade partners for its produce and the able markets to satisfy the demands of the German population. These developments will push the growth of the refrigerated logistics and warehousing enabling the country to export goods to distant countries.

The food and beverage exports to the United Kingdom will, post-Brexit, require huge refrigerated transportation vehicles in order to reduce the impact of increased tariffs and delays on the custom checkpoints.

Key Topics Covered:

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Study Deliverables

1.2 Study Assumptions

1.3 Scope of the Study

2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

2.1 Analysis Methodology

2.2 Research Phases

3 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4 MARKET DYNAMICS AND INSIGHTS

4.1 Current Market Scenario

4.2 Market Dynamics

4.2.1 Drivers

4.2.2 Restraints

4.2.3 Opportunities

4.3 Technological Trends and Automation

4.4 Government Regulations and Initiatives

4.5 Industry Value Chain/Supply Chain Analysis

4.6 Spotlight on Ambient/Temperature-controlled Storage

4.7 Industry Attractiveness Porter's Five Forces Analysis

4.8 Impact of Emission Standards and Regulations on Cold Chain Industry

4.9 Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

5 MARKET SEGMENTATION

5.1 By Services

5.1.1 Storage

5.1.2 Transportation

5.1.3 Value-added Services (Blast Freezing, Labeling, Inventory Management, etc.)

5.2 By Temperature Type

5.2.1 Chilled

5.2.2 Frozen

5.3 By Application

5.3.1 Horticulture (Fresh Fruits Vegetables)

5.3.2 Dairy Products (Milk, Ice-cream, Butter, etc.)

5.3.3 Meats Fish

5.3.4 Processed Food Products

5.3.5 Pharma, Life Sciences, and Chemicals

5.3.6 Other Applications

6 COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

7 FUTURE OF GERMANY COLD CHAIN LOGISTICS MARKET

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/nxwly5

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005570/en/

Contacts:

ResearchAndMarkets.com

Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com



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JAKARTA, Aug 9, 2022 - (ACN Newswire) - The implementation of equitable and inclusive Data Free Flow with Trust (DFFT) and Cross-Border Data Flow (CBDF) had become crucial issues nowadays as data traffic between countries kept increasing.Hence, as chairman of the 2022 G20 presidency, Indonesia proposed four principles of fairness, lawfulness, transparency, and reciprocity for the implementation of cross-border data governance.Through the 3rd Digital Economy Working Group (DEWG) Meeting, held in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Province, on July 20-22, 2022, Indonesia highlighted digital skills and literacy as the second priority issues of the DEWG, as well as the DFFT and CBDF as its third priority issue that will enhance the Bali Package document.The Ministry of Communication and Informatics has consulted with G20 members and partners to follow up on the results of previous meetings to be accommodated into a declaration draft, known as the Bali Package.The Bali Package will reflect the commitment of G20 members to achieve recovery through inclusive, empowering, and sustainable cooperation.Additionally, Communication and Informatics Minister Johnny G. Plate expected that the 3rd DEWG meeting could establish three deliverables.The deliverables include the recommendations and policies to increase the vulnerable groups' involvement in the digital economy sector; a G20 Toolkit on digital skills, literacy, and workshop; as well as a summary of practices and policies to develop advanced digital skills and literacy.The G20 members also sought a common understanding on a clear definition of trust and general principles in implementing the cross-border data flow.Spokesperson for the Communication and Informatics Ministry Dedy Permadi said all parties involved in the 3rd DEWG Meeting agreed to strengthen the cross-border data governance."The Digital Economy Working Group or DEWG had completed discussions regarding the CBDF," he stated.The results of the working group's discussions will be presented at the G20 Digital Economy Ministers' Meeting, which is scheduled to take place in Bali, in early September 2022.A workshop had been implemented on the last day of the 3rd DEWG Meeting to enhance the discussion on the CBDF and establish a common agreement on the agenda.In addition to the G20 members, a number of private actors, international organizations, academics, and non-governmental organizations were also invited, since the workshop served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue forum."Thus, the agenda does not only contain the government's interest, hence, the cross-border data flow agenda will be able to provide comprehensive recommendations," Permadi, who was also the Alternate Chair of 2022 G20 DEWG, remarked.The effort showed Indonesia's commitment in pursuing concrete deliverables to realize beneficial data utilization for all to encourage the recovery of the global digital economy.Additionally, the Director General of Informatics Application at the ministry, Semuel Abrijani Pangerapan, stated the value of Indonesia's digital economy was projected to reach US$124 billion (Rp1,855 trillion) in 2025.To optimize the potentials, Indonesia will hold a 2022 G20 DEWG side event entitled G20 Digital Innovative Network, themed 'The Rise of Digital Economy: Post-pandemic Recovery and Beyond'.The forum aims to facilitate knowledge-sharing as well as international partnerships among start-ups, venture capitalists, policy makers, and corporations to solve various global challenges.It was initiated by Italy's 2021 G20 Presidency under the name of G20 Digital Innovation League.The G20 Digital Innovative Network aims to find the 100 most promising start-ups in five priority sectors of healthcare, renewable energy, smart society, financial inclusivity, and supply chain.Start-up pitching, discussion panels, 1-on-1 business meetings, networking sessions, as well as cultural events will be held in a hybrid way during the implementation of the forum in Bali on September 2-4, 2022.The registration for the forum has been opened to the public at g20innovationnetwork.org.(c) ANTARA 2022Source: G20 IndonesiaCopyright 2022 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.
SODANKYLA, FINLAND / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / FireFox Gold Corp. (TSX.V:FFOX)(OTCQB:FFOXF)("FireFox" or the "Company") is pleased to report that it has completed a detailed airborne magnetic survey over its 100% controlled Naula Project in Lapland, Finland. Naula is a new project for the Company, lying in the western portion of the Central Lapland Greenstone Belt (CLGB), approximately 13 kilometres west of the town of Sirkka and 28 kilometres northwest from the town of Kittila (Figure 1). FireFox has identified several strong targets at Naula and has applied for exploration permits covering approximately 26 km2.

The FireFox technical team collaborated with GoldSpot Discoveries Corp. ("GoldSpot")(TSX.V: SPOT.V) in the interpretation and evaluation of the new survey. Interpretation of the survey data has considerably upgraded FireFox's understanding of the geology at Naula, which had been based on widely spaced government magnetics surveys and limited work by others in the area. The data appear to indicate the presence of at least two significant NNE-SSW striking structures that had not been previously mapped. If confirmed, such structures can be highly prospective for gold in Lapland. Flexures in the major structures and their intersections with other faults are high priority targets for follow-up exploration.

Carl Lofberg, FireFox's President and CEO, commented about the progress at the Naula project, "This new geophysics bolsters our belief in the potential for gold discovery at this property. Applying new technology in geophysics and data processing has identified a structural setting that we believe to be analogous to that hosting the Kittila gold deposit, which is less than 40 kilometres away from the project. The property is large and at a very early stage, but we are excited about the opportunity presented by the hard work to come. We expect Naula to be our sixth permitted project in Lapland during 2023."

FireFox is currently formulating plans for a till sampling program over the newly identified structural targets. Coincident anomalies in geophysics and till sampling are common drivers of drill targeting in the search for gold in Lapland.

Project and Program Details

The Naula Project is located in the western portion of the CLGB, just north of the Sirkka Shear Zone (SSZ). The geology of the area is comprised of the Kittila suite volcanics, which is dominated by tholeiitic mafic flows and graphite bearing mafic tuffites. This volcanic complex is host to Agnico Eagle's Kittila gold mine, located 37 kilometres to the east-northeast. The southern boundary of the project area is located less than 2.5 kilometers north from the SSZ, which hosts the nearby historic Saattopora gold mine and numerous other gold deposits.

The majority of the project area is covered by glacial-fluvial sediments, and the outcrop exposure is extremely limited. Previous explorers of the property completed only 500 metres of diamond drilling for geological mapping purposes, and of that, only one of the nine drill holes reached a depth of more than 45 metres. FireFox's review of the available data indicates that the project area has multiple structural and lithological similarities to the central part of the CLGB and the Kiistala shear zone, on which the Kittila Mine is situated.

Figure 1. Naula Regional Setting

FireFox completed the airborne magnetic survey over the Naula project in early February 2022. The survey was conducted by the Finnish company Radai, an experienced provider of geophysical surveys using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). GoldSpot and FireFox invested additional effort in the interpretation of the data with a focus on identifying possible crustal scale structures and related off-setting faults. This type of structural setting is believed to be prospective for gold mineralization, mimicking the deformation history of the NNE-SSW striking Kiistala shear zone and other significant gold-hosting structures in the region. The 3D inversion of the magnetics reveals at least two significant linear patterns of magnetic low that strike NNE across the property. The westernmost of these is much more significant than the eastern one. Potentially favorable targets occur along that structure where it deflects or intersects with other faults (Figure 2).

In addition to the NNE-SSW major structures, the survey confirmed the presence of numerous NW-SE structures that had been mapped in the area. These are roughly parallel to the throughgoing SSZ and may be related splays of that giant fault system, which is believed to be earlier than the NNE-SSW shear zones (often called a D3 or third deformation event).

Naula had previously been part of a much larger exploration reservation, and FireFox has applied for an exploration permit covering approximately 26 km2 of what it considers to be the highest priority ground in the area. Once granted, the permit will allow for mechanized exploration such as base of till (BoT) sampling and diamond core drilling.

Figure 2. Naula Targets

Qualified Person

Patrick Highsmith, Certified Professional Geologist (AIPG CPG # 11702) and director of the Company, is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Highsmith has helped prepare, reviewed, and approved, the technical information in this news release.

Dr. Sven Honig, Certified European Geologist (EFG EurGeol Title # 1789) and General Exploration Manager of the Company, is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Honig has supervised the field work reported herein and has helped to prepare and approves, the technical information in this news release.

About FireFox Gold Corp.

FireFox Gold Corp is listed on the TSX Venture Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol FFOX. FireFox also trades on the OTCQB Venture Market Exchange in the US under the ticker symbol FFOXF. The Company has been exploring for gold in Finland since 2017 where it holds a huge portfolio of prospective ground.

Finland is one of the top mining investment jurisdictions in the world as indicated by its multiple top-10 rankings in recent Fraser Institute Surveys of Mining Companies. Having a strong mining law and long mining tradition, Finland remains underexplored for gold. Recent exploration results in the country have highlighted its prospectivity, and FireFox is proud to have a Finland based CEO and technical team.

For more information, please refer to the Company's website and profile on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Carl Lofberg"

Chief Executive Officer

CONTACT:

FireFox Gold Corp.

Email: info@firefoxgold.com

Telephone: +1-778-938-1994

Forward Looking Statements

The information herein contains forward looking statements that are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in our forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause such differences include changes in world commodity markets, equity markets, the extent of work stoppage and economic impacts that may result from the COVID 19 virus, costs and supply of materials relevant to the mining industry, change in government and changes to regulations affecting the mining industry.

Forward-looking statements in this release may include statements regarding: the intent to conduct additional drilling; the belief as to the location of the most prospective gold targets; the location of targets for future drill programs; and the current and future work program, including the extent and nature of exploration to be conducted in 2022. Although we believe the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, results may vary.

The forward-looking statements contained herein represent the expectations of FireFox as of the date of dissemination and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking statements and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. FireFox does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

SOURCE: FireFox Gold Corp

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711318/FireFox-Gold-Identifies-Potential-Gold-Hosting-Structures-at-Naula-Project-in-Lapland-Finland
The acquisition expands Qualitest's NextGen capabilities while extending the company's operations in India

Qualitest (https://qualitestgroup.com), the world's leading AI-powered quality engineering company, announces today the acquisition of ZenQ PvT Ltd. (http://zenq.com/), an India-based software testing company. This acquisition not only extends Qualitest's strong geographical footprint in India with ZenQ's facilities in Hyderabad, but also adds to their NextGen capabilities in Phygital, Analytics, Blockchain, and DevOps. Through this acquisition, Qualitest will add ZenQ's 600+ quality engineers to its ranks, along with an energetic and effective leadership team that will support Qualitest's growth and deepen its expertise.

Founded in 2003, ZenQ is a leading provider of software testing services in various industries, including healthcare, BFSI, education, and retail. ZenQ's clients will benefit from Qualitest's technologically advanced quality engineering solutions, positioning the combined businesses as the preferred digital transformation partner with expansive global resources.

"Becoming a part of Qualitest means becoming a part of something bigger," said Murali Bollu, CEO of ZenQ. "Qualitest and ZenQ share a common vision to provide the most advanced and customer-centric quality engineering capabilities available in the world. By joining forces, we will leverage our varied expertise to assure the quality of our clients' deployments and their overall operational readiness."

"The acquisition of ZenQ represents yet another milestone in our journey to become the world's preferred Quality Engineering firm," said Anbu Muppidathi, Qualitest CEO. "ZenQ has cultivated excellent relationships with its clients and nurtured a strong innovation culture. I look forward to us working as one team, serving our clients together, and being able to offer innovative solutions to accelerate digital transformation."

About Qualitest

Founded in 1997, Qualitest offers a wide range of AI-powered quality engineering solutions, designed to mitigate the business risk associated with digital adoption. Qualitest achieves this by deploying engagement models tailored to the precise quality engineering needs of technology platforms in the financial services, telecom, healthcare, insurance, tech, retail, media, and utilities industries. It has operations in the US, UK, Germany, Romania, Israel, Argentina, Mexico, and Portugal, and serves over 400 blue-chip customers worldwide. Qualitest is majority-owned by international private equity group Bridgepoint, which acquired the company in October 2019 via its 5.7 billion flagship fund BE VI. Learn more at https://qualitestgroup.com/.

About ZenQ

Founded in 2003, in Hyderabad India, ZenQ is a leading provider of software testing services to clients across the globe. ZenQ operates with 600+ engineers working across key Industry verticals including Banking, Healthcare and Retail alongside building significant capability in NextGen technologies such as Blockchain (Crypto), Phygital, Drones, Internet of Things (IoT) and Analytics. For more information visit http://zenq.com/.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005203/en/

Contacts:

Qualitest Media Contact

Lauren Perry

SlicedBrand for Qualitest

lauren@slicedbrand.com
TOKYO, Aug 9, 2022 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and LIFENET INSURANCE COMPANY announced today that they have entered into a capital and business alliance agreement to collaborate in dementia and other areas, with the aim of helping reduce the burden of medical and nursing care for people living in Japan's aging society.New insurance products and services will be developed by mutually leveraging Eisai's wealth of experience and network in drug discovery and disease awareness activities in the field of dementia, which it has built up over many years, and LIFENET's know-how and technologies cultivated in insurance products and related services. Furthermore, Eisai and LIFENET will promote the creation of healthcare solutions utilizing various data and customer touchpoint owned by both companies, and expand the ecosystem that contributes to solving social issues.Under the terms of the agreement, Eisai will obtain LIFENET common stock worth 300 million yen through market transaction.Under the medium-term business plan "EWAY Future & Beyond", which began in April 2021, Eisai is expanding its main role in healthcare, that is, we should contribute not only to people in the medical domain but also to people in the daily living domain. Eisai aim's to evolve into a company that empowers them "to realize their fullest life" by creating solutions based on science and data in the fields with high unmet medical needs where Eisai has the greatest strength, through an ecosystem developed in collaboration with other industries. This alliance will accelerate the building of a dementia ecosystem that contributes through prevention, treatment, and aftercare in a comprehensive manner.LIFENET has worked with other industry partners to provide products and services that meet the needs of the times. Through this alliance, as stated in LIFENET Manifesto, LIFENET will continue providing health and wellness tips beyond the framework of life insurance to create value in our policyholders' lives, while creating a precedent for future generations as to what life insurance is (and should be) all about.Eisai and LIFENET will contribute to solving social issues through the creation of an ecosystem while pursuing the possibility of collaborations with other companies and organizations that support the objectives of the two companies' activities.For more information, visit www.eisai.com/news/2022/pdf/enews202261pdf.pdf.Source: EisaiCopyright 2022 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Defiance Silver Corp. (TSXV: DEF) (OTCQX: DNCVF) (FSE: D4E) ("Defiance" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a second update on the 4,750-metre maiden drill program at the Lucita property on the company's Zacatecas silver project, including additional newly-discovered zones of high-grade silver mineralization. This drill program was the first to be undertaken at the central Lucita project (Palenque vein system), which is currently under option from Pan American Silver (See News Release dated: December 2nd, 2020). Initial results from this program were released on April 13th, 2022.

The current release summarizes the results from an additional 8 holes (DDLU-21-06 to DDLU-21-13). The drill holes reported in this release encountered several styles of high-grade silver mineralization, including the classic vein-hosted style and blind, newly-discovered contact-style mineralization at depth. The encountered mineralization is open along strike and both up and down dip from the released results, which are highly-encouraging and warrant extensive follow-up exploration work, including diamond drilling.

Chris Wright, Chairman & CEO, stated: "Our team has been successful at identifying both near-surface and high-grade, vein-hosted silver mineralization, as well as a blind silver-rich zone that is over 45 metres wide, encountered in hole DDLU-22-10. The drilling within the central Lucita license area has demonstrated the continuity of the Palenque vein system over a 4 km vein corridor. This vein system represents an emerging discovery in a world-class silver mining district."

Highlights:

DDSA-22-10 discovered several different styles of mineralization, including a new blind high-grade interval at depth. The hole returned multiple results over 100 g/t Ag, and individual intercepts grade up to 737 g/t Ag (from 398m). Intercepts include 3.05m of 264 g/t Ag and 0.20 g/t Au (from 370.23 to 373.28m), 4.01m of 166 g/t Ag and 0.37 g/t Au (from 388.56 to 392.57m), and 2.25m of 235 g/t Ag (from 398 to 400.25m).

DDSA-22-10 also returned highly anomalous Ag mineralization from 370.23m to the end of the hole at 420.1m, with a 49.87m interval returning a weighted average of 58.79 g/t Ag. This new zone is open for expansion and will be a key follow up target in future drill programs.

DDSA-22-09 was drilled prior to DDSA-22-10 and hit anomalous veins, but was stopped short of the mineralized zones encountered in DDSA-22-10. Additional targeting work will be completed, and deeper follow up drilling will be planned with the goal of reaching the newly discovered zone of mineralization.

DDLU-22-12 returned high-grade Zn-Pb mineralization and moderate grade Ag mineralization over narrow widths (0.28m of 86.30 g/t Ag, 2.63% Pb, and 8.08% Zn from 364.54 to 364.82m) and represents a follow-up drill target once additional targeting and modeling work has been completed.

Further exploratory drilling in the Palenque central zone (DDLU-22-13) encountered narrow zones of high-grade mineralization, including up to 843 g/t Ag & 0.2 g/t Au at from 184.0m to 184.30m.

The inaugural drill program at Lucita central (Palenque vein system) confirmed the presence of high-grade, Fresnillo-style, low to intermediate-sulfidation epithermal silver mineralization, consisting of mainly of pyrargyrite (high-level sulfosalt) and silver sulfides that potentially indicate the higher-level setting of a zoned epithermal system. Follow-up drilling is planned for later this year at the newly discovered zones of mineralization at Palenque and Tahures.

Select Table of Results

Hole From To Interval Au g/t Ag g/t DDLU-22-10 370.23 373.28 3.05 0.20 264.29 including 371.13 371.90 0.77 0.19 668.00 DDLU-22-10 388.56 392.57 4.01 0.37 166.32 including 388.56 391.28 2.72 0.57 228.83 including 390.06 391.28 1.22 1.13 416.00 DDLU-22-10 398.00 400.25 2.25 0.08 235.29 including 398.00 398.53 0.53 0.19 737.00 DDLU-22-10 412.41 413.16 0.75 0.03 189.00 DDLU-22-10 415.20 416.08 0.88 0.04 108.00 DDLU-22-13 110.59 112.16 1.57 0.04 146.64 DDLU-22-13 184.00 186.00 2.00 0.04 149.66 including 184.00 184.30 0.30 0.20 843.00 DDLU-22-13 229.85 231.00 1.15 0.09 109.43

Table 1 - Drill Results. *True thicknesses are unknown at this time but are assumed to be between 50%-90% of the core length. **Drill holes DDLU-21-06, DDLU-21-07, DDLU-21-08, DDLU-22-09, DDLU-22-11, and DDLU-22-12 did not return reportable results.

Cross Section of DDSA-22-09 & 10:





Figure 1- Cross section through holes DDLU-22-09 & 10, showing multiple styles of mineralization, including a high-grade intercept at a "blind" faulted contact and as well as narrow zones of grade within the black shale unit.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2950/133217_fb50425bc4789a9f_001full.jpg

Map of Lucita Central Drill Holes:





Figure 2 - Overview map of the completed drilling at Lucita Central (Palenque) and San Acacio.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2950/133217_fb50425bc4789a9f_002full.jpg

Discussion of the Lucita Exploration Model:

Regional targeting done by Defiance in late 2019 and early 2020 identified the potential for a Fresnillo-style low to intermediate-sulfidation epithermal system on the Lucita land package, which is in a similar crustal-scale setting as the world-class Fresnillo district. The regional prospectivity of the Lucita project has been historically defined by surface geochemistry, mapped vein structures, and regional drill holes that the company has in its proprietary 1,300 km2 regional database. Since mid-2021, the company has completed a detailed surface mapping program, with targeted re-sampling of veins and surrounding areas. This work has yielded significant surface grab sample results and outlined multiple un-tested vein targets throughout the Lucita land package. The first pass 4,750 m diamond drilling program on the Palenque and Tahures vein systems were completed earlier in 2022, with the aim of conducting follow-up drilling in this area later in 2022 (Fig 2).

Discussion of Results:

The dominant silver mineralization at Lucita consists of pyrargyrite (with lesser acanthite, proustite and stephanite), hosted in polyphase calcite and quartz veins, breccia veins and stockwork veinlets. As is common in the Zacatecas and Fresnillo districts, mineralization is often hosted in steeply-dipping veins with typical epithermal-style textures. The main commodity at the level of current drilling is silver with minor gold. This differs from the Veta Grande system at the company's San Acacio project (See News Release dated: September 7th, 2021), which has a more polymetallic signature.

Initial interpretations are that the west-striking Palenque vein system (Fig. 2) are part of a low-to-intermediate-sulfidation epithermal-style vein system. New holes reported here, DDLU-22-10 and 11, also encountered two additional styles of silver-dominant mineralization, including a flat-lying faulted contact as well as fine veinlet arrays within underlying shales. Future exploration will target these new styles of mineralization at DEF's Zacatecas projects.

DDLU-21-06, DDLU-21-07 & DDLU-21-08 - These holes were designed to step west along the Palenque vein system from holes DDLU-21-01 to 05 (Fig 2). Holes DDLU-21-06 and 07 were targeted under mapped outcropping veins with silver grade and historic workings at surface. However, the two shallow holes failed to intersect the vein. This is likely due to displacement from a low-angle structure or steepening of the vein; further structural data collection and interpretation is underway to generate follow-up targets. DDLU-21-08 was similarly designed to test under mapped veins with historic workings and evidence of mineralization at surface. However, no significant intervals were intersected.

DDLU-22-09 - This hole was designed to intercept a mapped calcite-rich but low-grade portion of the Palenque vein system (Fig 1), with old workings nearby. The vein successfully intersected the steeply dipping veins with anomalous Ag and Au grades, including deep in the hole. Results were encouraging to follow up with a deeper hole, DDLU-22-10.

DDLU-22-10 - Interesting results from DDLU-22-09 prompted a deeper hole underneath the encountered veins. Hole DDLU-22-10 successfully encountered multiple calcite and quartz veins with anomalous to high-grade Ag  Au mineralization. A blind intercept in a low-angle fault between the volcanosedimentary package and underlying black shales also yielded a high-grade Ag  Au intercept (Fig 1). Several small but higher-grade Ag intercepts continued further into the black shales. This new style of mineralization related to the black shale, as well as the targeted vein-hosted intercepts, will be followed up with future exploration effort.

DDLU-22-11 and 12 - Encouraging results from DDLU-22-10 prompted step overs to the west (Fig 1). DDLU-22-11 encountered the same thick, calcite-rich veins as hole DDLU-22-10 with narrow intervals of mineralization, including 0.7 m @ 86.70 g/t Ag and 0.53 m @ 83.60 g/t Ag, at 248.81 m and 249.92 m depth, respectively. These results are encouraging evidence for the presence of similar mineralization along the same vein system. Likewise, the black shale contact was encountered with moderately anomalous results.

Hole DDLU-22-12 continued to test the western limit of the Palenque system within the license area. Results included several small veinlets with anomalous but not reportable values. A surprising intercept of 0.28 m of high-grade Zn-Pb mineralization and moderate-grade Ag was encountered in the underlying sediments at 364.54 m with 86.30 g/t Ag, 2.63% Pb and 8.08% Zn. This interval is encouraging and is a target for future follow-up.

DDLU-22-13 - The last hole in the initial Lucita drilling campaign aimed to follow up on the success of DDLU-22-05. DDLU-22-13 was planned east of holes DDLU-21-05 and 04, underneath a calcite-rich portion of the Palenque vein (Fig 1). Several narrow but high-grade intercepts (up to 843 g/t Ag) were encountered. These results warrant follow up exploration in this portion of the Palenque vein.

Collar Information for Reported Drill Holes:

Hole Number Total Depth Azimuth Dip Easting Northing Elevation (m) DDLU-21-06 150 215 -45 753046 2528799 2460 DDLU-21-07 219 195 -70 753046 2528799 2460 DDLU-21-08 324 0 -57 752244 2528713 2524 DDLU-22-09 216 35 -53 751816 2528886 2543 DDLU-22-10 433.5 30 -57 751807 2528837 2539 DDLU-22-11 357 15 -60 751695 2528930 2505 DDLU-22-12 402 20 -55 751575 2528937 2506 DDLU-22-13 330 20 -75 754736 2528366 2485

Table 2 -Drill hole information. Coordinate projection UTM:WGS 84 Zone 13N

Lucita Project Summary:

The Lucita project is a large land package in the prolific Fresnillo-Zacatecas mining district. In December 2020, Defiance Silver entered into an option agreement with Pan American Silver to acquire a 100% ownership of the Lucita property (See News Release dated: December 2nd, 2020).

The 2,674 Ha Lucita property consists of the Panuco zone in the north, the central Lucita zone (Palenque vein system), and the southern Lucita zone adjacent to Defiance's San Acacio project. The mineralization within the Lucita land package is characterized as a low to intermediate sulfidation epithermal Ag-Au veins, breccias, and stockwork. While historical work in the central Lucita area has been limited to first-pass regional geological mapping and sampling, the northern license area of Panuco has historical high-grade drill results and multiple drill ready exploration targets.

Discussion of QAQC and Analytical Procedure:

Samples were selected based on the lithology, alteration, and mineralization characteristics; sample size ranges from 0.25-2m in width. All altered and mineralized intervals were sent for assay. One blank, one standard, and one duplicate were included within every 20 samples. Standard materials are certified reference materials [CRMs] from OREAS and contain a range of Ag, Au, Cu, Pb, and Zn values. Blanks, standards, and duplicates did not detect any issues with the analytical results.

Samples were analyzed by ALS Chemex Laboratories. Sample preparation was performed at the Zacatecas, Mexico, prep facility, and analyses were performed at the Vancouver, Canada, analytical facility. All elements except Au and Hg were analyzed by a multi-element geochemistry method utilizing a four-acid digestion followed by ICP-MS detection [ME-MS61m]; mercury (Hg) was analyzed after a separate aqua regia digest by ICP-MS. Overlimit assays for Ag, Pb, and Zn were conducted using the OG62 method (multi-acid digest with ICP-AES/AAS finish). Gold was measured by fire-assay with an ICP-AES finish [50g sample, Au-ICP22].

Defiance also reports that it intends to settle up to $18,250 of debt through the issuance of up to 50,000 common shares of the Company (the "Shares") at a deemed price of $0.395 per Share to a creditor of the Company.

The issuance of the Shares to the Creditor is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. All securities issued will be subject to a four month hold period from the date of issue.

About Defiance Silver Corp.

Defiance Silver Corp. (TSXV: DEF) (OTCQX: DNCVF) (FSE: D4E) is an exploration company advancing the district-scale Zacatecas project, located in the historic Zacatecas Silver District and the Tepal Gold/Copper Project in Michoacan state, Mexico. Defiance is managed by a team of proven mine developers with a track record of exploring, advancing and developing several operating mines and advanced resource projects. Defiance's corporate mandate is to expand the San Acacio and Tepal projects to become premier Mexican silver and gold deposits.

Mr. George Cavey, P.Geo, is a Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical information concerning the Company's material mineral properties contained in this press release.

On behalf of Defiance Silver Corp.

"Chris Wright"

Chairman of the Board

For more information, please contact: Investor Relations at +1 (604) 343-4677 or via email at info@defiancesilver.com.

www.defiancesilver.com

Suite 2900-550 Burrard Street

Vancouver, BC V6C 0A3

Canada

Tel: +1 (604) 343-4677 Email: info@defiancesilver.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. Defiance Silver Corp. relies upon litigation protection for forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133217
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Oil prices were moving lower on Tuesday amid talks to revive the 2015 nuclear deal. The revival of the nuclear accord would open the door for Iran to resume oil exports. Benchmark Brent crude futures dipped 0.6 percent to $96.03 per barrel, while WTI crude futures were down 0.8 percent at $90.02. Talks to revive Tehran's tattered nuclear accord with world powers in Vienna ended Monday, with the European Union saying it put forward a 'final' text to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. 'What can be negotiated has been negotiated, and it's now in a final text. However, behind every technical issue and every paragraph lies a political decision that needs to be taken in the capitals,' EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell tweeted. 'If these answers are positive, then we can sign this deal,' he added. A deal could result in Iran boosting its oil exports by around 1 million barrels per day. Weekly U.S. oil inventory data from the American Petroleum Institute is due later today ahead of the Energy Information Administration report on Wednesday. Investors will watch for any signs of recovery in U.S. gasoline demand. Copyright(c) 2022 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Queen Elizabeth is missing an annual event that normally marks the start of her summer holiday in Scotland.

This year, the Queen, 96, will arrive at Balmoral Castle secretly rather than in public. Traditionally, she is photographed arriving at the Highlands estate in a small ceremony with troops from a Scottish regiment while military pipers and well-wishers assemble at the estate's gates.

Queen Elizabeth Skips Traditional Balmoral Ceremony

A royal insider reveals that the arrival will now take place quietly on the estate grounds. The Queen's plans have been altered for comfort concerns, according to a royal insider. The Queen has been suffering from mobility difficulties that have forced her to cancel public engagements and obligations for several months.

The Queen had a busy late spring and early summer, going out to honor her Platinum Jubilee, which marked her 70th year on the throne. She also had a series of engagements in Edinburgh, Scotland, before returning to Windsor for an emotional investiture of health workers. But, as with many of her public appearances, her family has stepped in - last month, her son and heir, Prince Charles, 73, took her place at the Commonwealth Games ceremonial opening ceremony.

On July 21, the Queen left Windsor Castle for Scotland, where she was expected to stay in Craigowan Lodge, a smaller residence on the Highland estate. She generally stays there before moving inside the castle, which was available to the public until last week, People reported.

According to The Mail on Sunday, the Queen intends to break her Scottish vacation to visit England and ask her 15th Prime Minister to form a cabinet. Boris Johnson has declared that he would quit on September 6, when he will publicly present his resignation to Queen Elizabeth II.

The Monarch will then 'invite' the victorious Conservative candidate to become Prime Minister and proclaim their name. The Queen generally does not return from her Balmoral vacation until early October, but she is said to have instructed advisors that she will make an exception this year and go to London.

Read Also: Johnny Depp, Jeff Beck Accused of Stealing Song Lyrics from Prison Inmate's Poem Recited Decades Ago

Queen Elizabeth Health Scare Rises in 2022

The choice of Prime Minister is one of the Queen's few personal prerogatives, which she plans to carry out in person, according to insiders. The formal site for the appointments is Buckingham Palace, however, due to restoration work, it may be moved to Windsor Castle.

The Queen's visit to greet the new Prime Minister will be brief, and she will return to Balmoral to finish her vacation. Other features of her yearly vacation have been reduced this year, such as the cancellation of a public appearance and the inspection of the guard before she arrives in Balmoral.

As per Us Weekly, the Queen's mobility troubles worsened in May 2022. The Queen continues to endure intermittent mobility challenges and has regrettably chosen not to attend the State Opening of Parliament tomorrow, according to a royal statement obtained by Reuters.

Despite the extra rest, Queen Elizabeth was forced to miss portions of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations. She was able to participate in the yearly Trooping the Colour procession as well as the Platinum Jubilee Pageant. The Queen, however, did not attend the Jubilee's Thanksgiving Service owing to the discomfort.

Even though her mobility limitations prevented her from attending several significant aspects of her Platinum Jubilee, such as the Party at the Palace performance, Queen Elizabeth was impressively engaged during the historic celebration. At 96, the Platinum Jubilee was very certainly the Queen's final Jubilee. While she is unable to participate in all of the royal customs she has in the past, Queen Elizabeth is nonetheless in high spirits as the head of the United Kingdom, as per Daily Mail.

Related Article: Meghan Markle Is Accused of Spreading Prince William Cheating Rumors After Source Claims Duchess Has Obsession with Cambridges' Marriage

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Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Metallica Metals Corp. (CSE: MM) (OTCQB: MTALF) (FSE: SY7P) (the "Company" or "Metallica Metals") is pleased to announce that field mapping and prospecting work has commenced on the Ni-Cu-PGM Sammy Ridgeline Project ("Sammy Ridgeline" or the "Project") in the Thunder Bay North District of Ontario, Canada. Sammy Ridgeline is located approximately 50 km northeast of Thunder Bay, with the two claim blocks lying on either side of Clean Air Metal's Thunder Bay North Project (Figure 1). The exploration program is scheduled to run until the end of the summer field season and will consist of geological and structural mapping, grab and channel sampling, and possible trenching. The Project has numerous showings and mineral occurrences comprised of molybdenum, copper, zinc, lead, silver, tin, tungsten and uranium, but was never previously explored for platinum and palladium (PGM's). The field program will largely focus on confirming PGM geophysical exploration targets that were developed from a detailed study using data from the 2021 MobileMT airborne survey (refer to the Company's news release dated May 16, 2022).

Exploration Program Summary:

Completing prospecting and geological mapping across the entirety of the two Sammy Ridgeline claim blocks and sampling any mineral occurrences ( Figure 2 ). An exploration permit has been submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry (NDMNRF) to complete trenching work and is pending approval.





). An exploration permit has been submitted to the Ontario Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry (NDMNRF) to complete trenching work and is pending approval. The field program will focus on eleven Ni-Cu-PGM targets generated across the combined East and West blocks (see Figures 3 and 4 ). Of particular interest are targets displaying remanent magnetism, which can be a feature of PGM deposits, that also have important structures in close proximity.





). Of particular interest are targets displaying remanent magnetism, which can be a feature of PGM deposits, that also have important structures in close proximity. Revisiting existing showings and mineral occurrences to evaluate their potential for further exploration and drilling targets.





Any geophysical targets buried under thick overburden cover may be trenched to expose the bedrock to map the geology and collect grab and channel samples.

Aaron Stone, CEO of Metallica Metals commented, "The Metallica Metals team is excited to have commenced the Company's inaugural surface exploration program on its Sammy Ridgeline Project. The property is located only 50 km from the major hub of Thunder Bay and on either side of Clean Air Metals' significant Thunder Bay North PGM discovery. The project boasts ease of access with a strong road network already in place, and outcropping geology is plentiful across the two blocks, which bodes well for exploration. Metallica Metals is very happy with the competent local team we've assembled to complete the exploration program at Sammy Ridgeline. We look forward to seeing the results from this mapping and prospecting program".

A local Thunder Bay geologist with over 20 years of industry experience has been engaged by Metallica Metals to oversee the Sammy Ridgeline exploration program with assistance from a local field technician. With a strong set of data in hand, the Company is confident in the exploration potential of the Sammy Ridgeline Project.





Figure 1: Location of Metallica Metals' Sammy Ridgeline Ni-Cu-PGM Project with respect to adjacent properties including Clean Air Metal's Thunder Bay North Project and Impala Canada's Lac des Iles Pt-Pd Mine (refer to notes below for MRMR sources shown on map).

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2610/133168_7db8f9b384625844_001full.jpg

Mineral Resource Estimate Sources and Cautionary Statements: The Sammy Ridgeline Project is contiguous to the Clean Air Metals Thunder Bay North Project. The Thunder Bay North Project is host to two significant deposits, Current Lake and Escape Lake, which together comprise an underground-constrained mineral resource estimate with an Indicated Resource of 14.5 million tonnes at 1.58 g/t Pt and 1.54 g/t Pd (8.12 g/t PtEq) and an Inferred Resource of 8.1 million tonnes at 0.67 g/t Pt and 0.69 g/t Pd (4.07 g/t PtEq) (MRE source: NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Thunder Bay North Project, Northern Ontario, Canada with an effective date of December 1, 2021 and filed on SEDAR under Clean Air Metals Inc.). The Sammy Ridgeline Project is also adjacent to the Impala Canada Lac des Iles PGM Mine. The Lac des Iles Mine contains proven and probable mineral reserves of 40.9 Mt at an average grade of 2.31 g/t Pd for 3.04 Moz of contained Pd (MRE source: NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Feasibility Study for Lac des Iles Mine with an effective date of July 4, 2018 and filed on SEDAR under Impala Canada Ltd.). Readers are cautioned that mineralization and mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates on adjacent and/or nearby properties are not necessarily indicative of mineralization on the Sammy Ridgeline Project (please refer to additional cautionary statements below).





Figure 2: Geology outcropping at surface across the West and East blocks of Sammy Ridgeline.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2610/133168_7db8f9b384625844_002full.jpg





Figure 3: TMI (total magnetic intensity) of the Sammy Ridgeline East Block overlain by 1st and 2nd order structures and the 6 exploration targets generated by a detailed study. Note that Clean Air Metals' Thunder Bay North project lies directly to the west of this block.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2610/133168_7db8f9b384625844_003full.jpg





Figure 4: TMI (total magnetic intensity) of the Sammy Ridgeline West Block overlain by 1st and 2nd order structures and the 5 exploration targets generated by a detailed study. Note that Clean Air Metals' Thunder Bay North project lies directly to the east of this block.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2610/133168_7db8f9b384625844_004full.jpg

Qualified Person Statement and Data Verification

All scientific and technical information contained in this news release was prepared and approved by Paul Teniere, M.Sc., P.Geo., President and Director of Metallica Metals Corp., who is a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101. Mr. Teniere has verified all scientific and technical data disclosed in this news release including geophysical procedures and information on adjacent properties. No errors or omissions were noted during the data verification process.

This news release also contains scientific and technical information with respect to adjacent or similar mineral properties to the Sammy Ridgeline Project, which the Company has no interest in or rights to explore. Readers are cautioned that information regarding mineral resources and mineral reserves, geology, and mineralization on adjacent or similar properties is not necessarily indicative of the mineralization on the Company's properties.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

METALLICA METALS CORP.

Aaron Stone, P.Geo.

Chief Executive Officer

astone@metallica-metals.com

Head Office:

Suite 810 - 789 West Pender Street

Vancouver, BC V6C 1H2 Canada

Ph: (604) 687-2038

Toronto Office:

Suite 401 - 217 Queen Street West

Toronto, ON M5V 0R2 Canada





About Metallica Metals Corp.

Metallica Metals Corp. is a Canadian junior mining company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") and its common shares trade under the ticker symbol "MM". The Company is focused on acquiring and exploring gold-silver and platinum group metal (PGM) properties across Canada. The Company is currently exploring and developing its Starr Gold-Silver Project, and Sammy Ridgeline and Richview Pine PGM projects, which are all located adjacent to advanced mining projects in the Thunder Bay Mining District of Ontario.

For more information, please visit the Company's website at https://metallica-metals.com.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking Information Statement

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. In particular, forward-looking information in this press release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Company's proposed acquisition, exploration program and the expectations for the mining industry. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in Canada and globally; industry conditions, including governmental regulation and environmental regulation; failure to obtain industry partner and other third party consents and approvals, if and when required; the availability of capital on acceptable terms; the need to obtain required approvals from regulatory authorities; stock market volatility; liabilities inherent in water disposal facility operations; competition for, among other things, skilled personnel and supplies; incorrect assessments of the value of acquisitions; geological, technical, processing and transportation problems; changes in tax laws and incentive programs; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions and dispositions; and the other factors. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133168
Ann Arbor, Michigan--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Zomedica Corp. (NYSE American: ZOM) today announced that Larry Heaton, CEO, will be attending the Q3 Virtual Investor Summit. During the presentation, Zomedica Chief Executive Officer, Larry Heaton, will highlight the Company's recent acquisitions and integration of PulseVet and the assets of Revo Squared and Assisi Animal Health, and the resulting transformational business strategy, noteworthy collaborations and partnerships, and the broader going-forward corporate vision. The presentation will be webcast and an archived recording will be made available in the Investors' section of the Zomedica website.

Event: Q3 Investor Summit Date: August 16 & 17th, 2022 Presentation: August 16 @ 12:30 p.m. ET Location: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_FfufrTaxTkSpRc1P4NPAAA

1x1s will be available for qualified investors

The conference is completely complementary to qualified investors. Please register at

Complimentary Investor Registration



Company Description

Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Zomedica (NYSE American: ZOM) is a veterinary health company creating products for companion animals by focusing on the unmet needs of clinical veterinarians. Zomedica's product portfolio includes innovative diagnostics and medical devices that emphasize patient health and practice health. It is Zomedica's mission to provide veterinarians the opportunity to increase productivity and grow revenue while better serving the animals in their care. Zomedica's TRUFORMA is an in-clinic biosensor platform offering reference lab quality results for diagnoses of thyroid and adrenal disorders. The PulseVet line is the leader in veterinary shock wave therapy, and has recently launched technology capable of delivering true electrohydraulic shock wave energy without the need for sedation.

Investor Relations Contact:

PCG Advisory Group

Kirin Smith, President

ksmith@pcgadvisory.com

+1.646.823.8656

About Investor Summit Group

The Investor Summit (formerly MicroCap Conference) is an exclusive, independent conference dedicated to connecting smallcap and microcap companies with qualified investors. The Q3 Investor Summit will take place virtually, featuring 90+ companies and over 500 investors comprising institutional investors, family offices, and high net worth investors. Sectors Participating: Biotech, Communication Services, Consumer, Energy, Energy/Tech, Financial, Healthcare, Industrials, Materials, Real Estate, Technology, and Tech/Crypt. Contact: info@investorsummitgroup.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133169
Open to the public in Summer 2023, the natural oasis achieved the highest level of sustainability verification by Oceanic Global's Blue Standard

Today, global beer brand Corona announces the grand opening of Corona Island, a tropical sustainable destination for eco-tourism off the coast of Colombia. A first-of-its-kind island paradise, Corona Island is free of single-use plastic, encouraging guests to reconnect with the natural world through immersive hospitality experiences.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005308/en/

Corona Island (Photo: Business Wire)

As a beer made with natural ingredients that was born at the beach and the first global beverage brand with a net-zero plastic footprint*, Corona partnered with international nonprofit Oceanic Global to create the first Blue Verified island.

Corona Island has achieved Oceanic Global's three-star plastic-free Blue Seal for eliminating single-use plastic and adopting sustainable operating best practices at scale. From construction to energy production, food sourcing and guest experiences on-site, sustainability is at the center of every decision and touchpoint of Corona Island.

"On Corona Island, we are celebrating the majesty and beauty of the outdoors by getting guests engaged in protecting paradise," said Felipe Ambra, Global Vice President for Corona. "Everyone on the team, from our chefs to our architects contributed to creating a truly single-use plastic-free paradise. We look forward to welcoming visitors, rekindling their relationship with nature and hopefully creating more advocates to protect our natural world."

"Oceanic Global is honored to help develop the Corona Island experience and applauds Corona's sector-leading sustainability efforts," said Lea d'Auriol, Founder and Executive Director at Oceanic Global. "We're proud to have worked with Corona from the beginning of the project to ensure that this sustainable destination demonstrates how travelers can experience paradise for both leisure and educational purposes, while leaving a minimal trace behind."

Exclusive island features:

Design and vision for the island led by international architectural and design firm, James Mau, in partnership with local Colombian architect, Jairo Marquez.

Guest menus created by Chilean-born Chef Christopher Carpentier, who was featured as a judge on MasterChef Colombia.

Corona Island's leisure programs are curated by Paulina Vega, former Miss Universe, who was born on the Colombian coast.

Educational workshops and excursions hosted as part of Oceanic Global's "Blue School".

For more details, and to learn how to book a stay on Corona Island starting Summer 2023,** please visit the registration page here.

*AB InBev's 2021 Environmental, Social Governance. Report. Retrieved from https://www.ab-inbev.com/assets/pdfs/ABINBEV_ESG_2021_Final.pdf page 37.

**U.S. Residents are not eligible for purchasing stays on Corona Island. Corona and some of the Modelo beer brands have been licensed to a third party for the U.S. territory.

About Corona Global

Born in Mexico, Corona is the leading beer brand in the country, the most popular Mexican beer worldwide exported to more than 180 countries. Corona Extra was first brewed in 1925 at the Cerveceria Modelo in Mexico City. Corona is a pioneer in the beer industry by being the first to use a transparent bottle showcasing its purity and high quality to the world. The artwork found on the bottle is painted, highlighting our commitment to quality in our packaging and our Mexican heritage. No Corona is complete without the lime. Naturally adding character, flavor and refreshment, the lime ritual is an integral part of delivering an experience that is truly unique to Corona. The brand is synonymous with the beach and celebrates time outdoors. It invites people to pause, relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Corona has an ongoing commitment to reducing plastics. Since its partnership with Parley for the Oceans in 2017, they have exceeded its mission to protect 100 islands before 2020, and continue to deploy consistent global clean-up efforts.

About Anheuser-Busch InBev

Anheuser-Busch InBev is a publicly traded company (Euronext: ABI) based in Leuven, Belgium, with secondary listings on the Mexico (MEXBOL: ANB) and South Africa (JSE: ANH) stock exchanges and with American Depositary Receipts on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BUD). As a company, we dream big to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet life's moments, move our industry forward and make a meaningful impact in the world. We are committed to building great brands that stand the test of time and to brewing the best beers using the finest ingredients. Our diverse portfolio of well over 500 beer brands includes global brands Budweiser, Corona and Stella Artois; multi-country brands Beck's, Hoegaarden, Leffe and Michelob ULTRA; and local champions such as Aguila, Antarctica, Bud Light, Brahma, Cass, Castle, Castle Lite, Cristal, Harbin, Jupiler, Modelo Especial, Quilmes, Victoria, Sedrin, and Skol. Our brewing heritage dates back more than 600 years, spanning continents and generations. From our European roots at the Den Hoorn brewery in Leuven, Belgium. To the pioneering spirit of the Anheuser Co brewery in St. Louis, US. To the creation of the Castle Brewery in South Africa during the Johannesburg gold rush. To Bohemia, the first brewery in Brazil. Geographically diversified with a balanced exposure to developed and developing markets, we leverage the collective strengths of approximately 169,000 colleagues based in nearly 50 countries worldwide. For 2021, AB InBev's reported revenue was 54.3 billion USD (excluding JVs and associates).

About Oceanic Global

Founded in 2016 by Lea d'Auriol, Oceanic Global (OG) inspires us to care deeply for the ocean and provides solutions to protect it. The international non-profit sheds light on humanity's essential relationship to the ocean and empowers individuals, communities, and industries to create positive change. Oceanic Global creates educational experiences, consults on sustainable operations, and engages local communities to generate measurable impact for our collective wellbeing. In 2020, Oceanic Global launched the Blue Standard (Blue), a first-of-its-kind cross industry standard that establishes universal accountability for sustainable business leadership and empowers industries and businesses of all sizes to achieve measurable impact that protects our blue planet. Oceanic Global is based in Brooklyn, New York with international hubs volunteer bases in New York, London, Los Angeles, Barcelona, Tulum, and Hong Kong. Reflective of its global reach, the organization has additionally produced United Nations World Oceans Day since 2019. CareDeeply www.oceanic.global

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005308/en/

Contacts:

Media

AB InBev Media Relations

E-mail: media.relations@ab-inbev.com

Faith Yi

Tel: +1 206.226.0859

E-mail: coronaglobal@allisonpr.com
Demand for recreational marijuana in Michigan surges as Hero Technologies finalizes licensing and cultivation plans in the state.

DOVER, DE / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Hero Technologies (OTCQB:HENC) (Twitter: @heroicmindtech), a cannabis company focused on a "seed-to-sale" vertical integration strategy, today announced that its subsidiary, BlackBox Systems and Technologies LLC, continues to project aggressive growth for its planned cannabis operations in Michigan.

Michigan's legal marijuana market has surged since adult recreational use was permitted in 2020. (Medical marijuana has been legal in the state since 2008.) According to statistics from the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency:

Sales of legal cannabis in Michigan neared $1.8 billion in 2021, with adult recreational use generating 73% of the total.

For the first six months of 2022, legal cannabis sales exceeded $1 billion, an increase of 27% over the first six months of 2021. Adult recreational use increased 59% over the same period, soaring to 85% of all legal cannabis sales.

In 2021, 55% of cannabis sales were recorded in the July-December period. Based on the same distribution, full-year 2022 sales of legal cannabis in Michigan are expected to approach $2.8 billion.

The number of cannabis users in Michigan has increased 75% since 2010, to two million individuals (some 20% of the state's population).

The market for illicit cannabis in Michigan is also large, with an estimated $1.2 billion in sales. This represents an immediate potential growth channel for legal sales, as the state enacts new laws to regulate cannabis quality and safety.

In September 2021, Hero Technologies' BlackBox subsidiary achieved the most significant milestone in Michigan's cannabis licensing process, with pre-qualification approval for an Adult (recreational) and Medicinal Use cannabis license under the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act.

The company's plans for in Michigan include a proprietary aeroponic growing system and state-of-the-art quality and safety controls. The company expects to produce high-yield cannabis crops year-round for both recreational and medical use, and plans to market its products through distribution, retail, and dispensary operations.

"We are excited to see the continued rapid growth of the Michigan cannabis market as we finalize our state license and prepare for high-volume production," said Hero Technologies' CEO Gina Serkasevich. "We expect that the quality and high yields of our proprietary cannabis cultivation system will give us a competitive edge in the state."

About Hero Technologies

Hero Technologies Inc. is a cannabis company working toward a vertically-integrated business model. The company owns a majority stake in BlackBox Systems and Technologies LLC, an aeroponic cannabis cultivation system that provides optimal growing conditions to enhance photosynthesis and cultivation of large flowering plants, creating increased harvest efficiencies. The company's strategic business plan includes cannabis genetic engineering, farmland for both medical and recreational cannabis cultivation, production licenses, distribution licenses, consumer packaging, and retail and dispensary operations that make the company a multi-state operator (MSO).

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements may include: management plans relating to the proposed project; the expected timing of the completion of the proposed project; the ability to complete the proposed project; any statements of the plans and objectives of management for future operations, products or services, including the execution of plans proposed project; any statements of expectation or belief; projections related to certain financial metrics; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "intend," "may," "outlook," "plan," "project," "seek," "should," "target," "will," "would," and other similar words and expressions or negatives of these words. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks, and uncertainties, which change over time and are beyond our control. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Neither Hero Technologies Inc. nor its holding company or subsidiaries assumes any duty and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements. Because forward-looking statements, by their nature, are uncertain or assumptive to varying degrees, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those that Hero Technologies Inc., its holding company, or subsidiaries anticipated in the forward-looking statements, and future results could differ materially from historical performance.

Hero Technologies Contact:

Ms. Gina Serkasevich, CEO

(302) 538-4165 | gs@herotechnologiesinc.com

SOURCE: Hero Technologies Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711254/Hero-Technologies-HENC-Sees-Strong-Growth-Prospects-in-Booming-Michigan-Cannabis-Market
WestRock Company (NYSE: WRK), a leading provider of sustainable paper and packaging solutions, has delivered its flexible and efficient Cluster-Pak EvoTech packaging solution for a joint partnership between Budejovicky Budvar and Mattoni 1873 to advance their shared commitment to improving circularity in the Czech Republic.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220727005854/en/

BIRGO is a non-alcoholic beer with a unique flavor profile. It is a joint partnership between Mattoni 1873 and Budejovicky Budvar, produced using Westrock's Cluster-Pak EvoTech packaging solution, which advances the partnership's goal of improving circularity within the Czech Republic's beverage industry. Image credit: Mattoni 1873 and Budejovicky Budvar. (Photo: Business Wire)

The solution has been deployed to package BIRGO, a non-alcoholic beer featuring unique flavor profiles developed by Mattoni in partnership with Budejovicky Budvar, the Czech Republic's largest international exporter of craft beer and the exclusive producer of BIRGO.

Cluster-Pak EvoTech features easy, repeatable changeovers along with an optimized use of water, heat and electricity to improve both energy and operating efficiencies on high-speed lines. Its use of recyclable fiber-based packaging made from materials sourced from responsibly managed forests is key to establishing circularity on the BIRGO production line.

"At WestRock, we are driving sustainability by working with customers to develop and implement eco-friendly packaging and machinery solutions that help them to advance their sustainability goals," said Patrick Kivits, president of Consumer Packaging at WestRock. "Introducing our Cluster-Pak EvoTech solution to the Czech Republic beverage industry is an exciting example of our efforts. We look forward to helping Mattoni and its partners continue to further their sustainability goals."

"We are excited about our new collaboration with Mattoni, not only because of the excellent product, but also because we share the same values. We are proud to be one of the first in the Czech Republic using fiber-based packaging for canned products. We expect to save 85 tons of plastic per year," said Petr Dvorak, CEO of Budejovicky Budvar. "Our partnership with WestRock advances our goals by putting circular principles into practice."

The packaging solution is in use on a new, modern production line with an hourly capacity of up to 50,000 cans.

About WestRock

WestRock (NYSE: WRK) partners with our customers to provide sustainable paper and packaging solutions that help them win in the marketplace. WestRock's team members support customers around the world from locations spanning North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Learn more at www.westrock.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are typically identified by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "could," or "expect," and other words, terms and phrases of similar meaning. A forward-looking statement is not a guarantee of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statement due to various risks and uncertainties, which are more particularly described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in Part I, Item 1A "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021. The information contained in this release speaks as of the date hereof, and the Company does not have or undertake any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220727005854/en/

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Wealth Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: WML) (OTCQB: WMLLF) (SSE: WMLCL) (FSE: EJZN) (the "Company" or "Wealth Minerals"), reports it has entered into a cooperation and development agreement (the "Agreement") with thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies GmbH ("thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies"), whereby Wealth Minerals and thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies have formed a strategic partnership (the "Strategic Partnership") for the development of the Company's Ollague Salar Lithium exploration project (the "Project" or the "Ollague Project"), located in northern Chile. Under the Strategic Partnership, Wealth Minerals and thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies will collaborate to:

Identify, evaluate and select the most beneficial and environmentally sustainable processing technology for lithium extraction and purification treatment for the Ollague Project,

Develop the Ollague Project from the exploration stage through to commercial scale production capacity of high-purity lithium products, and

Define new standards in green mining and foster the involvement of local communities in Chile.

The long-term goal of this Strategic Partnership is to collaborate toward the advancement of the Project along its development stages and, if warranted, progress the Project to production.

The first stage of the Strategic Partnership will entail the identification, evaluation and selection of technology for lithium extraction and purification for the Project. The development of the preliminary flowsheet and layouts, including brine testing and the set-up of a pilot plant, will complete the first stage of the Strategic Partnership. Each stage of the Strategic Partnership is designed to adhere to the highest ESG standards and focuses on cooperation with local communities. The end goal of the Strategic Partnership is to establish the Project as a leading benchmark of green mining in lithium brine resource development.

"We are proud to be the chosen cooperation partner for this project and to be trusted to support Wealth Minerals with their transition from explorer to developer. Building on our historically strong mining and engineering experience we will set a new standard in green mining with this partnership", says Jan Luder, CEO of thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies.

Marcelo A. Awad, Wealth Minerals' Executive Director in Chile, underlines these standards' significance and the important role of thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies in achieving them, states: "Traditional evaporation production methods are not an option for us in this project. Our aim is to live up to the highest sustainable standards and to minimize the impact on the environment. thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies, with its wealth of experience and know-how, will help us achieve this."

Henk van Alphen, CEO at Wealth Minerals, added: "When choosing a strategic partner, it was particularly important to us that it is an industry partner with a strong technical background and rich expertise in engineering. We are therefore all the happier to have gained such a partner in thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies."

About thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies

thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies supplies a full range of machinery, systems, equipment and services for the extraction, processing, storage and transportation of raw materials. In collaboration with our customers in the mining and minerals sectors throughout the world we develop custom, forward-looking solutions that enhance productivity and allow natural resources to be used responsibly and efficiently. Further details at https://thyssenkrupp-mining-technologies.com/ .

The Ollague Project

The Ollague Project consists of 8,000 hectares located in northern Chile, Region II, near the Chile-Bolivia border and approximately 200km due north from Atacama. On the Project, Lithium Chile Inc. previously conducted a drilling campaign in 2018, which returned lithium grades up to 480 Li mg/l and earlier surface sampling work returned lithium grades as high as 1,140 Li mg/l (see Wealth Minerals news release June 23, 2022). Wealth Minerals previously conducted a coincident loop Transient Electromagnetic survey on the Ollague Project, which identified very highly conductive features that are interpreted to represent porous media with high-salinity fluids (potentially lithium-bearing brines) at depth (see Wealth Minerals news release December 14, 2017).

The Ollague Project is an exploration stage lithium brine mineral project in the highly prospective Atacama Salar of north central Chile. Further exploration will be required to delineate a mineral resource, if at all, for the Project.

Qualified Person

Daniel MacNeil, MSc PGeo, a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for this news release and has approved the disclosure herein.

About Wealth Minerals Ltd.

Wealth Minerals is a mineral resource company with interests in Canada and Chile. The Company's main focus is the acquisition and development of lithium projects in South America.

The Company opportunistically advances battery metal projects where it has a peer advantage in project selection and initial evaluation.

Lithium market dynamics and a rapidly increasing metal price are the result of profound structural issues with the industry meeting anticipated future demand. Wealth Minerals is positioning itself to be a major beneficiary of this future mismatch of supply and demand. In parallel with lithium market dynamics, Wealth Minerals believes other battery metals will benefit from similar industry trends.

For further details on the Company readers are referred to the Company's website (www.wealthminerals.com) and its Canadian regulatory filings on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of

WEALTH MINERALS LTD.

"Hendrik van Alphen"

Hendrik van Alphen

Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Marla Ritchie, Michael Pound or Henk van Alphen

Phone: 604-331-0096 or 604-638-3886

For all Investor Relations inquiries, please contact:

John Liviakis

Liviakis Financial Communications Inc.

Phone: 415-389-4670

For all Public Relations inquiries, please contact:

Nancy Thompson

Vorticom, Inc.

Office: 212-532-2208 | Mobile: 917-371-4053

Follow Us:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WealthMineralsLtd

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wealth-minerals

Twitter - https://www.twitter.com/WealthMinerals"Hendrik van Alphen"

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and US securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the Strategic Partnership, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves, the Company's expectation that it will be able to develop the Project through to production in the manner contemplated by the Strategic Partnership, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "estimates", "plans", "may", "should", "would", "will", "potential", "scheduled" or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the state of the financial markets for the Company's equity securities, the state of the commodity markets generally, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, variations in the market price of any mineral products the Company may produce or plan to produce, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, including TSX Venture Exchange acceptance, for its planned activities, the inability of the Company to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably, to successfully develop technology for lithium extraction and marketable lithium production (including with thyssenkrupp Mining Technologies), to continue its projected growth, to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's latest interim Management Discussion and Analysis and filed with certain securities commissions in Canada. All of the Company's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedar.com and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical reports filed with respect to the Company's mineral properties.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133224
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / CAT Strategic Metals Corporation (CSE:CAT)(OTC PINK:CATTF)(FRA:8CH) ("CAT" or the "Company") reports that, further to its news release of July 5, 2022, announcing the completion of a detailed airborne geophysical survey on the South Preston Uranium Project in Canada's prolific Athabasca Basin, the Company has deployed an exploration team to the property in order to begin a highly anticipated exploration program.

Two field crews will be conducting a variety of activities; including prospecting with gamma-ray spectrometers for radioactive bedrock and boulders in the areas over, and adjacent to, conductors identified by the recently completed airborne EM-magnetometer survey. The crews will map and sample any bedrock encountered in the target areas.

The team will also attempt to confirm the location of radioactive boulders and bedrock reported in historical records that are part of the Company's extensive database. The goal is to characterize these historical occurrences in terms that may provide a better understanding of the vectors toward mineralization, i.e., type of rock, size and angularity of boulders.

Additionally, bio-geochemical sampling of black spruce in the above-mentioned areas will occur using a grid approach, with profiles on a 150 metre spacing and 25 metre sample site spacing.

CAT's South Preston Uranium Project comprises 29,395 hectares, and shares ~50km of contiguous claim border with Azincourt Energy Corp. ("Azincourt" or "AAZ") which reported uranium enrichment within previously identified alteration zones. Azincourt recently reported the results of their 2022 Winter drill program and CAT is particularly encouraged by the results of the drilling that occurred in Azincourt's G-Zone, which is quite close to the border of CAT's claim block.

According to CAT CEO, Robert Rosner, "Our neighbour to the north, Azincourt Energy, recently reported highly encouraging results from its Winter drill program, and we are particularly interested in the drilling they did in the G-Zone. 9 holes were drilled in this zone that appear to be following a trend of hydrothermal alteration with each subsequent new drill hole getting closer and closer to CAT's Claim. This suggests to us that whatever system they are encountering on their property could very well extend onto our property as well. Now that we have a crew in the field at South Preston, we are quite excited to add new information to the data-set that will be intrinsic to our future exploration activities"

As a result of the ongoing success of Azincourt's exploration and drilling activities in the area, CAT's management and consulting group held an informal first meeting with Azincourt's team to discuss in general terms the potential of the area and the various exploration activities conducted in the past and present, and what the most logical next step work programs might look like on both sides of the property line.

Alex Klenman, CEO of Azincourt Energy, stated; "We are quite pleased to collaborate with the team from CAT". Both of our companies obviously share an interest in regional exploration efforts and we feel that both companies can benefit from an ongoing, open dialogue that may be advantageous to both of our exploration plans. We are following CAT closely, as they are with us, so we're going to develop a good working relationship that helps both CAT and Azincourt vector towards meaningful and impactful discovery."

About CAT Strategic Metals Corporation (CAT)

CAT Strategic Metals' corporate strategy, as reflected in its overall Mission Statement, is to source, identify, acquire and advance property interests located in mineral districts proven to have world-class potential, primarily for gold and copper. In addition to the priority South Preston Uranium Project, CAT' is focused on advancing the Burntland Project located northeast of St. Quentin in the Restigouche County, New Brunswick, Canada, directed at the exploration and development of several Skarn-hosted copper-silver, gold targets and the Gold Jackpot strategic metals property located NE of Elko, Nevada, in the Pequop gold-copper trend with multiple targets for gold-silver, copper, and tellurium. CAT's shares trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) under the trading symbol "CAT", on OTCMarkets.com under the trading symbol "CATTF", and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "8CH".

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Robert Rosner

Chairman, President & CEO

Further information regarding the Company can be found on SEDAR at www.SEDAR.com , by visiting the Company's website www.catstrategic.com or by contacting the Company directly at (604) 674-3145.

This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. Particular risks applicable to this press release include risks associated with planned production, including the ability of the company to achieve its targeted exploration outline due to regulatory, technical or economic factors. In addition, there are risks associated with estimates of resources, and there is no guarantee that a resource will be found or have demonstrated economic viability as necessary to be classified as a reserve. There is no guarantee that additional exploration work will result in significant increases to resource estimates

Neither Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

We seek safe harbour.

SOURCE: CAT Strategic Metals Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711376/CAT-Strategic-Deploys-Crew-to-Begin-Ground-Geophysical-Survey-of-South-Preston-Uranium-Project
PERTH, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Tempus Resources Ltd ("Tempus" or "the Company") (ASX:TMR)(TSXV:TMRR)(OTCQB:TMRFF) is pleased to announce assay results for the first three drill-holes completed at the Elizabeth Gold Project during the 2022 season.

HIGHLIGHTS

Assay results have been received for the first three drill-holes of the 2022 drilling campaign at the Elizabeth Gold Project (drill-holes EZ-22-01 through EZ-22-03)

Drill-hole EZ-22-03 returned 'bonanza' grades including the best intersection ever encountered at Elizabeth Gold Project , with assays over widths of up to 1.7 metres in multiple intersections including:

523.0g/t gold over 0.42 metres from 96.91 metres, and

32.7g/t gold over 0.45 metres from 124.02 metres, including: 133.0g/t gold over 0.11m from 124.02 metres, and

7.4g/t gold over 1.73 metres from 164.41 metres, including: 17.4g/t gold over 0.73m from 165.41 metres

All three holes intersected Blue Vein gold mineralisation multiple times demonstrating potential for multiple stacked high-grade vein mineralisation within a wider Blue Vein structure

18 drill-holes have been completed in this program since drilling commenced in late-May, with 15 holes currently pending assay

Tempus Resources, President and CEO, Jason Bahnsen, commented "We have a phenomenal start, with drill-hole EZ-22-03 reporting the highest grade intersections we've ever seen at Elizabeth! The spectacular grades are a cause for celebration given the Blue Vein was only discovered late last year but what's potentially more important is that every hole had multiple gold intersections spaced relatively close together. This indicates potential for stacked high-grade vein mineralisation within a wider Blue Vein structure."

Drilling to date shows that the Blue Vein is not a single structure. Each of the drill-holes being reported today (EZ-22-01, EZ-22-02 and EZ-22-03) successfully hit Blue Vein gold mineralisation in multiple sub parallel closely spaced intersections demonstrating the potential for multiple stacked high-grade gold vein mineralisation within a wider Blue Vein structure.

The Blue Vein was discovered in late-2021 (EZ-21-12 including 1.0m at 33.7g/t gold), with assay results now received for 10 holes intersecting the vein to date (including four holes with 'bonanza' grade intersections, i.e., greater than 1oz per tonne), high-grade gold mineralisation has now been defined over a strike length of over 100 metres. The 2022 drilling is testing the Blue Vein structure over a total strike length of approximately 400 metres.

Table 1 - Assay results being reported today (drill-holes EZ-22-01 to EZ 22-03)

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) True Thickness (m)* Gold Grade (g/t Au) EZ-22-01 123.90 124.70 0.80 0.68 2.1 and 125.90 126.00 0.10 0.08 3.8 and 161.42 161.82 0.40 0.34 2.3 EZ-22-02 147.65 147.83 0.18 0.15 6.9 and 185.25 185.85 0.60 0.51 1.9 EZ-22-03 96.91 97.33 0.42 0.36 523.0 and 124.02 124.47 0.45 0.38 32.7 incl 124.02 124.13 0.11 0.09 133.0 and 164.41 166.14 1.73 1.47 7.4 incl 165.41 166.14 0.73 0.62 17.4

*true thickness is estimated using a multiplier of 0.85.

**The Company considers anything over 0.2 g/t gold as significant.

Image 1: Blue Vein drill-hole EZ-22-03 core with assay results overlain

See Figures 1 and 2 for drill-hole locations in plan view and long section. See Appendix 1 and Appendix 2 for detailed information on drill holes and sampling techniques.

Figure 1 - Elizabeth plan view showing 2022 drill-hole locations

Figure 2 - Elizabeth Blue Vein long section (looking northwest)

This announcement has been authorised by the Board of Directors of Tempus Resources Limited.

Competent Persons Statement

Information in this report relating to Exploration Results is based on information reviewed by Mr. Sonny Bernales, who is a Member of the Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia (EGBC), which is a recognised Professional Organisation (RPO), and an employee of Tempus Resources. Mr. Bernales has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined by the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, and as a Qualified Person for the purposes of NI43-101. Mr. Bernales consents to the inclusion of the data in the form and context in which it appears.

For further information:

TEMPUS RESOURCES LTD

Melanie Ross - Director/Company Secretary Phone: +61 8 6188 8181

About Tempus Resources Ltd

Tempus Resources Ltd ("Tempus") is a growth orientated gold exploration company listed on ASX ("TMR") and TSX.V ("TMRR") and OTCQB ("TMRFF") stock exchanges. Tempus is actively exploring projects located in Canada and Ecuador. The flagship project for Tempus is the Blackdome-Elizabeth Project, a high grade gold past producing project located in Southern British Columbia. Tempus is currently midway through a drill program at Blackdome-Elizabeth that will form the basis of an updated NI43-101/JORC resource estimate. The second key group of projects for Tempus are the Rio Zarza and Valle del Tigre projects located in south east Ecuador. The Rio Zarza project is located adjacent to Lundin Gold's Fruta del Norte project. The Valle del Tigre project is currently subject to a sampling program to develop anomalies identified through geophysical work.

Forward-Looking Information and Statements

This press release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are not representative of historical facts or information or current condition, but instead represent only the Company's beliefs regarding future events, plans or objectives, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of Tempus's control. Generally, such forward-looking information or forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or may contain statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "will continue", "will occur" or "will be achieved". The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained herein may include, but are not limited to, the ability of Tempus to successfully achieve business objectives, and expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Tempus to control or predict, that may cause Tempus' actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein and the other risks and uncertainties disclosed under the heading "Risk and Uncertainties" in the Company's Management's Discussion & Analysis for the quarter and nine months ended March 31, 2022 dated May 16, 2022 filed on SEDAR. Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information or statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although Tempus believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing, and the expectations contained in, the forward-looking information and statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and statements, and no assurance or guarantee can be given that such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information and statements.

The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and Tempus does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking information and statements attributable to Tempus or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in its entirety by this notice.

Neither the ASX Exchange, the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Appendix 1

Table 1:Drill Hole Collar Table

UTM UTM Hole ID Target Easting (NAD83 Northing (NAD83 Elevation (m) Length (m) Azimuth Dip Z10) Z10) EZ-21-01 SW Vein 531203 5653771 2400 105 121 -52 EZ-21-02 SW Vein 531203 5653771 2400 132 146 -55 EZ-21-03 SW Vein 531203 5653771 2400 111 158 -47 EZ-21-04 SW Vein 531203 5653771 2400 135 168 -58 EZ-21-05 SW Vein 531078 5653776 2400 561 123 -48 EZ-21-06 SW Vein 531078 5653776 2400 255 110 -55 EZ-21-07 SW Vein 531203 5653771 2400 126 115 -75 EZ-21-07b SW Vein 531203 5653771 2400 186 115 -75 EZ-21-08 SW Vein 531195 5653839 2427 231 115 -68 EZ-21-09 SW Vein 531200 5654020 2330 360 120 -48 EZ-21-10 SW Vein 530953 5653772 2390 354 127 -50 EZ-21-11 SW Vein 530953 5653772 2390 381 136 -50 EZ-21-12 SW Vein 530953 5653772 2390 375 125 -45 EZ-21-13 SW Vein 530919 5653596 2300 261 94 -45 EZ-21-14 SW Vein 530919 5653596 2300 261 108 -55 EZ-21-15 SW Vein 530919 5653596 2300 330 100 -55 EZ-21-16 SW Vein 530919 5653596 2300 330 83 -48.5 EZ-21-17 SW Vein 530919 5653596 2300 414 98 -63 EZ-21-18 SW Vein 530919 5653596 2300 351 128.5 -63 EZ-21-19 SW Vein 530953 5653772 2390 417 129 -58 EZ-21-20 SW Vein 530849 5653432 2260 300 129 -45 EZ-21-21 East Veins 531695 5653463 2120 357 90 -45 EZ-21-22 SW Vein 531195 5653839 2427 188 75 -45 EZ-21-23 SW Vein 531695 5653463 2120 165 91 -45 EZ-21-24 Blue Vein 530953 5653772 2390 219 84 -54 EZ-21-25 Blue Vein 530953 5653772 2390 201 105 -58 EZ-21-26 Blue Vein 530953 5653772 2390 198 95 -45 EZ-21-27 Blue Vein 530953 5653772 2390 195 150 -60 EZ-21-28 No.9 Vein 530953 5653772 2390 321 300 -55

UTM UTM Hole ID Target Easting (NAD83 Northing (NAD83 Elevation (m) Length (m) Azimuth Dip Z10) Z10) EZ-22-01 Blue Vein 530953 5653772 2400 222 130 -65 EZ-22-02 Blue Vein 531203 5653772 2400 225 108 -65 EZ-22-03 Blue Vein 531203 5653772 2400 198 95 -50 EZ-22-04 Blue Vein 531200 5653774 2400 375 290 -55 EZ-22-05 Blue Vein 531130 5653775 2393 156 280 -45 EZ-22-06 Blue Vein 531130 5653775 2399 237 290 -55 EZ-22-07 Blue Vein 531130 5653775 2399 216 298 -45 EZ-22-08 Blue Vein 531039 5653887 2399 120 135 -50 EZ-22-09 Blue & SW Vein 530953.1 5653772 2422 468 100 -53 EZ-22-10 Blue Vein 530953.1 5653772 2392 210 95 -65 EZ-22-11 Blue Vein 531039 5653887 2422 207 110 -60 EZ-22-12 Blue Vein 531039 5653887 2422 216 85 -50 EZ-22-13 Blue Vein 531039 5653887 2422 251 123 -65 EZ-22-14 Blue Vein 531004 5653896 2428 249 140 -65 EZ-22-15 Blue Vein 531004 5653896 2428 240 130 -65 EZ-22-16 Blue Vein 531004 5653896 2428 242 120 -65 EZ-22-17 Blue Vein 531004 5653896 2428 251 160 -65 EZ-22-18 Blue Vein 531004 5653896 2428 258 150 -65

Table 2: Significant Interval Table

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) True Thickness (m) Gold Grade MET Screen Grade Vein EZ-21-01 94.00 96.60 2.60 2.21 4.60 5.12 SW Vein and 83.50 84.00 0.50 0.43 20.50 pending SW Vein EZ-21-02 102.40 109.00 6.60 5.61 8.40 pending SW Vein including 105.40 106.50 1.10 0.93 46.30 pending SW Vein EZ-21-03 88.60 95.00 6.40 5.44 7.22 pending SW Vein including 89.30 91.90 2.60 2.21 11.80 pending SW Vein and 90.00 91.30 1.30 1.11 19.80 pending SW Vein and 34.70 35.20 0.50 0.43 3.15 pending SW Vein EZ-21-04 122.00 126.00 4.00 3.40 31.20 34.40 SW Vein including 123.00 124.50 1.50 1.28 52.10 68.30 SW Vein including 124.00 124.50 0.50 0.43 72.00 87.30 SW Vein EZ-21-05 134.00 135.00 1.00 0.85 1.38 Not Preformed 7 Vein 217.55 218.25 0.70 0.59 1.74 1.67 SW Vein and 256.00 256.50 0.50 0.43 1.03 0.89 SW Vein and 554.85 555.35 0.50 0.43 0.24 Not Preformed West Vein EZ-21-06 134.50 136.00 1.50 1.28 1.10 1.71 7 Vein and 245.00 246.00 1.00 0.85 2.05 2.45 SW Vein EZ-21-07 Hole lost EZ-21-07B 40.10 41.10 1.00 0.85 4.88 Not Preformed 7 Vein and 51.50 52.20 0.70 0.60 9.06 Not Preformed 7 Vein and 160.00 165.75 5.75 4.89 0.53 0.70 SW Vein EZ-21-08 196.25 202.40 6.15 5.23 0.65 0.66 SW Vein and 226.60 227.10 0.50 0.43 1.54 1.85 SW Vein EZ-21-09 58.60 59.10 0.50 0.43 0.31 Not Preformed Blue Vein and 270.90 272.90 2.00 1.70 2.56 Not Preformed SW Vein and 355.88 357.00 1.12 0.95 0.85 Not Preformed SW Vein EZ-21-10 223.00 223.50 0.50 0.43 4.04 Not Preformed 7 Vein and 347.70 349.20 1.50 1.28 0.22 0.21 SW Vein EZ-21-11 326.90 327.40 0.50 0.43 0.55 0.44 SW Vein EZ-21-12 117.80 118.80 1.00 0.85 47.6 33.7 Blue Vein and 130.70 131.20 0.50 0.43 26.4 Not Preformed Blue Vein and 163.90 164.40 0.50 0.43 5.50 8.41 Blue Vein and 344.90 347.00 2.10 1.79 0.78 1.22 SW Vein EZ-21-13 230.70 232.60 1.90 1.62 0.76 0.71 SW Vein Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) True Thickness (m) Gold Grade MET Screen Grade Vein EZ-21-14 224.00 224.90 0.90 0.77 1.63 1.15 SW Vein EZ-21-15 318.40 320.80 2.40 2.04 0.31 Not Preformed SW Vein including 320.30 320.80 0.50 0.43 1.14 Not Preformed SW Vein EZ-21-16 305.00 306.90 1.90 1.61 0.55 Not Preformed SW Vein EZ-21-17 171.00 171.50 0.50 0.43 0.14 0.57 Vein and 204.00 204.60 0.60 0.51 0.53 Not Preformed vein and 254.60 256.85 2.25 1.91 1.40 1.58 7 Vein and 350.13 350.75 0.62 0.53 1.01 Not Preformed SW Vein and 379.47 382.00 2.53 2.15 0.63 0.64 SW Vein EZ-21-18 299.50 299.90 0.40 0.34 1.53 Not Preformed SW Vein EZ-21-19 127.50 128.00 0.50 0.43 4.52 Not Preformed Blue Vein and 129.00 130.50 1.50 1.28 4.25 Not Preformed Blue Vein and 167.80 168.70 0.90 0.76 4.50 6.14 Blue Vein and 351.80 354.90 3.10 2.63 0.34 Not Preformed SW Vein EZ-21-20 NSI** EZ-21-21 184.00 186.00 2.00 1.70 1.03 Not Preformed unknown and 263.45 264.30 0.85 0.72 1.34 Not Preformed unknown EZ-21-22 175.55 176.70 1.15 0.98 1.60 2.50 SW Vein EZ-21-23 145.00 149.10 4.10 3.48 1.11 1.83 SW Vein including 147.50 148.20 0.70 0.59 1.08 4.98 SW Vein EZ-21-24 139.80 141.00 1.20 1.02 0.58 0.58 Blue Vein and 181.70 182.65 0.95 0.81 0.85 0.84 Blue Vein EZ-21-25 111.00 113.70 2.70 2.30 13.4 Not Preformed Blue Vein including 111.50 112.00 0.50 0.43 71.3 Not Preformed Blue Vein EZ-21-26 121.45 122.70 1.25 1.06 9.13 Not Preformed Blue Vein including 121.45 121.70 0.25 0.21 45.1 Not Preformed Blue Vein and 159.06 160.25 1.19 1.01 1.35 1.45 Blue Vein EZ-21-27 152.20 153.60 1.40 1.19 12.1 14.31 Blue Vein including 152.20 153.20 1.00 0.85 16.3 19.19 Blue Vein and 157.00 157.40 0.40 0.34 1.27 1.28 Blue Vein EZ-21-28 245.60 246.85 1.25 1.06 0.67 Not Preformed No.9 Vein EZ-22-01 123.90 124.70 0.80 0.68 2.07 2.07 Blue Vein and 125.90 126.00 0.10 0.08 3.82 3.82 Blue Vein and 161.42 161.82 0.40 0.34 2.25 2.25 Blue Vein Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) True Thickness (m) Gold Grade MET Screen Grade Vein EZ-22-02 147.65 147.83 0.18 0.15 6.88 6.88 Blue Vein and 185.25 185.85 0.60 0.51 1.89 1.89 Blue Vein EZ-22-03 96.91 97.33 0.42 0.36 2.05 523.00 Blue Vein and 124.02 124.47 0.45 0.38 32.66 Not Preformed Blue Vein including 124.02 124.13 0.11 0.09 130.00 133.00 Blue Vein and 164.41 166.14 1.73 1.47 7.41 Not Preformed Blue Vein including 165.41 166.14 0.73 0.62 17.40 Not Preformed Blue Vein

* true thickness is estimated using a multiplier of 0.85. The Company considers anything over 0.2 g/t gold as significant.

**no significant intervals

Appendix2: The following tables are provided to ensure compliance with the JORC Code (2012) requirements for the reporting of Exploration Results for the Elizabeth - Blackdome Gold Project

Section 1: Sampling Techniques and Data

(Criteria in this section apply to all succeeding sections.)

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Sampling techniques Nature and quality of sampling (eg cut channels, random chips, or specific specialised industry standard measurement tools appropriate to the minerals under investigation, such as down hole gammasondes, or handheld XRF instruments, etc). These examples should not be taken as limiting the broad meaning of sampling.

Include reference to measures taken to ensure sample representivity and the appropriate calibration of any measurement tools or systems used.

Aspects of the determination of mineralisation that are Material to the Public Report. In cases where industry standard work has been done this would be relatively simple (eg reverse circulation drilling was used to obtain1 m samples from which 3 kg was pulverised to produce a 30 g charge for fire assay). In other cases more explanation may be required, such as where there is coarse gold that has inherent sampling problems. Unusual commodities or mineralisation types (eg submarine nodules) may warrant disclosure of detailed information. HQ (63.5 mm) sized diamond core using standard equipment.

Mineralised and potentially mineralised zones, comprising veins, breccias, and alteration zones were sampled.

Samples were half core.

Typical core samples are 1m in length.

Core samples sent to the lab will be crushed and pulverized to 85% passing75 microns. A 50g pulp will be fire assayed for gold and multi-element ICP.Samples over 10 g/t gold will be reanalysed by fire assay with gravimetric finish Drilling techniques Drill type (eg core, reversecirculation, open-hole hammer,rotary air blast, auger, Bangka,sonic, etc) and details (eg core diameter, triple or standard tube, depth of diamond tails, face-sampling bit or other type, whether core is oriented and if so, by what method,etc). Diamond Drilling from surface (HQ size) Drill sample recovery Method of recording and assessing core and chip sample recoveries and results assessed.

Measures taken to maximise sample recovery and ensure representative nature of the samples.

Whether a relationship exists between sample recovery and grade and whether sample bias may have occurred due to preferential loss/gain of fine/coarse material. Detailed calculation of recovery was recorded, with most holes achieving over 95%

No relationship has yet been noted between recovery and grade and no sample bias was noted to have occurred. Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Logging Whether core and chip samples have been geologically and geotechnically logged to a level of detail to support appropriate Mineral Resource estimation, mining studies and metallurgical studies.

Whether logging is qualitative or quantitative in nature. Core (or costean, channel, etc) photography.

The total length and percentage of the relevant intersections logged. Detailed geological and geotechnical logging was completed for each hole.

All core has been photographed.

Complete holes were logged. Sub- sampling techniques and sample preparation If core, whether cut or sawn and whether quarter, half or all core taken.

If non-core, whether riffled, tube sampled, rotary split, etc and whether sampled wet or dry.

For all sample types, the nature,quality and appropriateness of the sample preparation technique.

Quality control procedures adopted for all sub- sampling stages to maximise representivity of samples.

Measures taken to ensure that the sampling is representative of the in situ material collected, including for instance results for field duplicate/second-half sampling.

Whether sample sizes are appropriate to the grain size of the material being sampled. Half core was sampled, using a core saw.

Duplicate samples of new and historical core are Quarter core or half core where not previously sampled

Sample sizes are considered appropriate for the grain size of the material being sampled.

It is expected that bulk sampling will be utilised as the project advances, to more accurately determine grade. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests The nature, quality and appropriateness of the assaying and laboratory procedures used and whether the technique is considered partial or total.

For geophysical tools, spectrometers, handheld XRF instruments, etc, the parameters used in determining the analysis including instrument make and model, reading times, calibrations factors applied and their derivation, etc.

Nature of quality control procedures adopted (eg standards, blanks,duplicates, external laboratory checks) and whether acceptable levels of accuracy (ie lack of bias) and precision have been established. Core samples that have been sent to the lab for analysis include control samples(standards, blanks and prep duplicates) inserted at a minimum rate of 1:5 samples.

In addition to the minimum rate of inserted control samples, a standard or a blank is inserted following a zone of mineralization or visible gold

Further duplicate samples were analysed to assess variability

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Verification of sampling and assaying The verification of significant intersections by either independent or alternative company personnel.

The use of twinned holes.

Documentation of primary data, data entry procedures, data verification, data storage (physical and electronic) protocols.

Discuss any adjustment to assay data. Re-assaying of selected intervals of historic core have been sent for analysis. Location of data points Accuracy and quality of surveys used to locate drill holes (collar and down-hole surveys), trenches, mine workings and other locations used in Mineral Resource estimation.

Specification of the grid system used.

Quality and adequacy of topographic control. All sampling points were surveyed using a hand held GPS.

UTM grid NAD83Zone 10.

A more accurate survey pickup will be completed at the end of the program, to ensure data is appropriate for geological modelling and Resource Estimation.

Down hole surveys have been completed on all holes. Data spacing and distribution Data spacing for reporting of Exploration Results.

Whether the data spacing and distribution is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity appropriate for the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimation procedure(s) and classifications applied.

Whether sample compositing has been applied. Most drilling is targeting verification and extension of known mineralisation.

It is expected that the data will be utilised in a preparation of a Mineral Resource statement.

Additional drilling is exploration beneath geochemical anomalies, and would require further delineation drilling to be incorporated in a Mineral Resource. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Whether the orientation of sampling achieves unbiased sampling of possible structures and the extent to which this is known, considering the deposit type.

If the relationship between the drilling orientation and the orientation of key mineralised structures is considered to have introduced a sampling bias,this should be assessed and reported if material. In general, the aim was to drill perpendicular to the mineralised structures, to gain an estimate of the true thickness of the mineralised structures.

At several locations, a series (fan) of holes was drilled to help confirm the orientation of the mineralised structures and to keep land disturbance to a minimum. Sample s Security The measures taken to ensure sample security. Samples from Elizabeth were delivered to the laboratory by a commercial transport service. Audits or Reviews The results of any audits or reviews of sampling techniques and data. An independent geological consultant has recently visited the site as part of preparing an updated NI43-101Technical Report for the Project.

Section 2: Reporting of Exploration Results

(Criteria listed in the preceding section also apply to this section.)

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Mineral tenement and land tenure status Type, reference name/number, location and ownership including agreements or material issues with third parties such as joint ventures, partnerships, overriding royalties, native title interests, historical sites, wilderness or national park and environmental settings.

The security of the tenure held at the time of reporting along with any known impediments to obtaining a license to operate in the area. The Blackdome-Elizabeth Project is comprised of 73 contiguous mineral claims underlain by 14 Crown granted mineral claims and two mining leases.

The Property is located in the Clinton and Lillooet Mining Divisions approximately 230 km NNE of Vancouver

Tempus has exercised the option to acquire the Elizabeth Gold Project and has completed an addendum to the original Elizabeth Option Agreement (refer to ASX announcement 15 December 2020)

A net smelter royalty of 3% NSR (1% purchasable) applies to several claims on the Elizabeth Property.

No royalties apply to the Blackdome Property or Elizabeth Regional Properties.

There are currently no known impediments to developing a project in this area, and all tenure is in good standing. Exploration done by other parties Acknowledgment and appraisal of exploration by other parties. In the 1940s,placer gold was discovered in Fairless Creek west of Blackdome Summit.Prospecting by Lawrence Frenier shortly afterward led to the discovery of gold-bearing quartz veins on the southwest slope of the mountain that resulted in the staking of mining claims in 1947. Empire Valley Gold Mines Ltd and Silver Standard Resources drove two adits and completed basic surface work during the 1950s.

The Blackdome area was not worked again until 1977 when Barrier Reef Resources Ltd. re-staked the area and performed surface work in addition to underground development. The Blackdome Mining Corp. was formed in 1978 and performed extensive surface and underground work with various joint venture partners that resulted in a positive feasibility study. A 200 ton/day mill, camp facilities and tailings pond were constructed and mining operations officially commenced in 1986. The mine ceased operations in 1991, having produced 225,000 oz of Au and 547,000oz of Ag from 338,000tons of ore (Godard et al., 2010)

After a period of inactivity, Claimstaker Resources Ltd.took over the project, reopening the mine in late 1998.

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Mining operations lasted six months and ended in May of 1999. During this period, 6,547 oz of Au and 17,300 oz of Ag were produced from 21,268 tons of ore. Further exploration programs were continued by Claimstaker over the following years and a Japanese joint venture partner was brought onboard that prompted a name change to J-Pacific Gold Inc. This partnership was terminated by 2010, resulting in another name change to Sona Resources Corp.

Gold-bearing quartz veins were discovered near Blue Creek in 1934, and in 1940-1941 the Elizabeth No. 1-4 claims were staked.

Bralorne Mines Ltd. optioned the property in 1941 and during the period 1948-1949, explored the presently- named Main and West Veins by about 700 metres of cross-cutting and drifting, as well as about 110 metres of raises.

After acquiring the Elizabeth Gold Project in 2002, J- Pacific (now Sona) has conducted a series of exploration programs that included diamond drilling 66 holes totalling 8962.8 metres (up until 2009) Other exploration work by Sona at the Elizabeth Gold Project has included two soil grid, stream sediment sampling, geological mapping and sampling, underground rehabilitation, structural mapping and airborne photography and topographic base map generation. Geology Deposit type, geological setting and style of mineralisation. The Blackdome property is situated in a region underlain by rocks of Triassicto Tertiary age. Sedimentary and igneous rocks of the Triassic Pavilion Group occurring along the FraserRiver represent the oldest rocks in the region. A large,Triassic age, ultramafic complex (Shulaps Complex) was emplaced along the Yalakom fault; a regional scale structure located some 30 kilometres south of the property. Sediments and volcanics of the Cretaceous Jackass Mountain Group and Spences Bridge/Kingsvale Formations overlie the Triassic assemblages. Some of these rocks occur several kilometres south of Blackdome.

Overlying the Cretaceous rocks are volcanics and minor sediments of Eocene age.These rocks underlie much of Blackdome and are correlated with the Kamloops Group seen in the Ashcroft and Nicola regions.

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Geochemical studies (Vivian,1988) have shown these rocks to be derived from a calc-alkaline magma in a volcanic arc type tectonic setting. Eocene age granitic intrusions at Poison Mountain some 22 kilometres southwest of Blackdome are host to a gold bearing porphyry copper/molybdenum deposit. It is speculated that this or related intrusions could reflect the source magmas of the volcanic rocks seen at Blackdome. There is some documented evidence of young granitic rocks several kilometres south of the mine near Lone Cabin Creek. The youngest rocks present are Oligocene to Miocene basalts of the Chilcotin Group. These are exposed on the uppermost slopes of Blackdome Mountain and Red Mountain to the south.

Transecting the property in a NE-SW strike direction are a series of faults that range from vertical to moderately westerly dipping. These faults are the principal host structures for Au- Ag mineralisation. The faults anastomose, and form igmoidal loops.

The area in which the Elizabeth Gold Project is situated is underlain by Late Paleozoic to Mesozoic rock assemblages that are juxtaposed across a complex system of faults mainly of Cretaceous and Tertiary age. These Paleozoic to Mesozoic-age rocks are intruded by Cretaceous and Tertiary-age stocks and dykes of mainly felsicto intermediate composition, and are locally overlain by Paleogene volcanic and sedimentary rocks. The Elizabeth Gold Project is partly underlain by ultramafic rocks of the Shulaps Ultramafic Complex,which include harzburgite, serpentinite and their alteration product list wanite.

The gold mineralisation found on the Elizabeth Gold Project present characteristics typical of epigenetic mesothermal gold deposits. The auriferous quartz vein mineralisation is analogous to that found in the Bralorne- Pioneer deposits. Gold mineralisation is hosted by a series of northeast trending, steeply northwest dipping veins that crosscut the Blue Creek porphyry intrusion. The Main and West vein systems display mesothermal textures, including ribboned-laminated veins and comprehensive wall rock breccias. Vein formation and gold mineralisation were associated with extensional-brittle faulting believed to be contemporaneous with mid- Eocene extensional faulting along the Marshall Creek,Mission Ridge and Quartz Mountain faults.

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Drill hole Information A summary of all information material to the understanding of the exploration results including a tabulation of the following information for all Material drill holes: easting and northing of the drill hole collar elevation or RL (Reduced Level - elevation above sea level in metres)of the drill hole collar dip and azimuth of the hole down hole length and interception depth hole length.

If the exclusion of this information is justified on the basis that the information is not Material and this exclusion does not detract from the understanding of the report, the Competent Person should clearly explain why this is the case. Refer to Appendix 1 for drill hole collar information Data aggregation methods In reporting Exploration Results,weighting averaging techniques, maximum and/or minimum grade truncations (eg cutting of high grades)and cut-off grades are usually Material and should be stated.

Where aggregate intercepts incorporate short lengths of high grade results and longer lengths of low grade results, the procedure used for such aggregation should be stated and some typical examples of such aggregations should be shown in detail.

The assumptions used for any reporting of metal equivalent values should be clearly stated. Intervals reported using several samples are calculated using a weighted average.

Calculated intervals using a weighted average did not use a top cut on high-grade samples. High-grade samples are reported as including

Calculated weighted average intervals are continuous intervals of a mineralized zone and do not include unsampled intervals or unmineralized intervals. Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths These relationships are particularly important in the reporting of Exploration Results.

If the geometry of the mineralisation with respect to the drill hole angle is known,its nature should be reported.

If it is not known and only the down hole lengths are reported, there should be a clear statement to this effect(eg down hole length, true width not known). In general,drilling is designed to intersect the mineralized zone at a normal angle,but this is not always possible.

For the reported intervals, true widths are reported where mineralized core was intact and possible to measure the orientation. Otherwise the true width is left blank Diagrams Appropriate maps and sections (with scales) and tabulations of intercepts should be included for any significant discovery being reported These should include, but not be limited to a plan view of drill hole collar locations and appropriate sectional views. Refer to maps within announcement for drill hole locations.

Criteria JORC Code explanation Commentary Balanced reporting Where comprehensive reporting of all Exploration Results is not practicable, representative reporting of both low and high grades and/or widths should be practiced to avoid misleading reporting of Exploration Results. Where broader low-grade intervals are reported the high-grade intercepts are reported as including within the reported interval Other substantive exploration data Other exploration data, if meaningful and material, should be reported including (but not limited to): geological observations; geophysical survey results; geochemical survey results; bulk samples - size and method of treatment; metallurgical test results; bulk density, groundwater, geotechnical and rock characteristics; potential deleterious or contaminating substances. Tempus recently completed an airborne magnetic and radiometric survey over the Elizabeth Gold Project (refer to ASX announcement 02 August 2021) by completing 97 lines for a total of 735 line-kilometres. Flight lines are oriented east-west with north-south tie lines and spaced 200 metres across the entire 115km2 Elizabeth property. Line spacing of 100 metres was flown over the Elizabeth Main and Elizabeth East Zones.

The airborne magnetic survey data was reviewed and interpreted by Insight Geophysics Inc. using 3D magnetization vector inversion (MVI) modelling.

The geophysical surveys identified the Blue Creek Porphyry, which is the known host of the high-grade Elizabeth gold-quartz veins, as a relative magnetic low anomaly within the Shulaps Ultramafic Complex. From this correlation of geology and geophysics it was determined that the Blue Creek Porphyry, originally explored / mapped to approximately 1.1km2 in size, is likely much larger. The airborne magnetic survey and MVI 3D modelling interpret the Blue Creek Porphyry to be at least four-times the size at approximately 4.5km2.

This interpretation of the Blue Creek Porphyry is also extensive at depth extending to at least 2km deep Further work The nature and scale of planned further work (eg tests for lateral extensions or depth extensions or large- scale step-out drilling).

Diagrams clearly highlighting the areas of possible extensions, including the main geological interpretations and future drilling areas, provided this information is not commercially sensitive. Tempus plans to update historical NI43-101 foreign resource estimates to current NI43-101 and JORC 2012 standards

Tempus is also seeking to expand the scale of the mineralisation at the project through further exploration.

SOURCE: Tempus Resources Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711382/Tempus-Intersects-up-to-523gt-Gold-over-042-metres-at-Elizabeth-Project
The Tonga Volcano erupted with so much force that it sent an unprecedented amount of water vapor into the Earth's atmosphere that could be enough to heat the planet.

The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai (HT-HH) volcanic eruption last January was unlike anything that Luis Millan had ever seen. He is an atmospheric scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.

Tonga Volcano Eruption

In a statement, Millan said that they had to carefully inspect all of the measurements in the plume to make sure that they were accurate. Scientists published a paper in Geophysical Research Letters that showed their analysis of data from Microwave Limb Sounder.

That is an instrument that measures gases like water vapor and ozone from NASA's Aura satellite. The team discovered that the undersea volcano's plume had reached altitudes up to about 35 miles, which was a "record in the satellite era."

The plume released roughly 146 teragrams of water vapor into the stratosphere, which is equal to about 10% of the total water already in that later of the Earth's atmosphere. Previous volcanic blasts have caused a temporary cooling effect on the planet because of ash and dust that reflect sunlight into space, as per the Smithsonian Magazine.

However, as per the study, this particular event will likely raise temperatures because of water vapor's heat-trapping properties. Millan, who is also the lead author on the study, said that this would just be temporary warming of Earth and noted it would go back to whatever it was supposed to go back to before.

Read Also: South Korea Launches First Lunar Orbiter 'Danuri' With Help of SpaceX, Plans More For Future Missions

The eruption earlier this year was the world's largest in the 21st century and possibly the most powerful since Krakatoa in 1883. The volcanic explosion rained ash down on Tonga and triggered a tsunami that damaged more than 100 homes and killed three people.

According to NewsMax, the amount of water that the Tonga volcano put out was more than 58,000 Olympic-size swimming pools. The water vapor is also expected to remain in the Earth's atmosphere for several years.

Heating the Earth

The underwater volcano is more than 12 miles wide and with a caldera sitting approximately 500 feet below sea level. Researchers that monitored the blast said that it usually takes some two to three years for sulfate aerosols from volcanoes to fall out of the stratosphere.

However, they noted that water from the recent eruption could take five to 10 years to fully dissipate and could become the "first volcanic eruption observed to impact climate not through surface cooling caused by volcanic sulfate aerosols, but rather through surface warming."

The team added that the eruption dramatically disrupted annual water patterns in the stratosphere, which is normally quite reliable that scientists refer to it as a sort of tape recorder.

NASA noted that the extra water vapor could also influence atmospheric chemistry, boosting certain chemical reactions that could temporarily worsen the depletion of the ozone layer. The unprecedented amount of water sent to the atmosphere was only possible because of the Tonga volcano's caldera under the sea, NASA reported.

Related Article: Scientists Spark Controversy for First-Ever 'Synthetic Embryo' With Beating Heart, Brain Made From Stem Cells

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Ottawa, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - C-COM Satellite Systems Inc., (TSXV: CMI) (OTCQB: CYSNF) the leading global provider of mobile auto-deploying satellite antenna systems, today announced that it has received type approval for its iNetVu Ka-75VP Ka-band vehicle mount antenna system from Viasat Inc. for use on the networks that power the ViaSat Enterprise service. ViaSat is a provider of broadband and communication technologies and services.

Ka-75VP -Deployed



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"The Ka-75VP mobile antenna system is the third iNetVu vehicle mount auto-deploy antenna system to have successfully passed all mechanical and radio frequency (RF) testing as required by the ViaSat Auto-acquire Terminal Qualification process," said Bilal Awada, CTO of C-COM Satellite Systems Inc. "We are pleased to be able to provide Viasat customers operating over Viasat1, Anik, and WildBlue satellites with an affordable 75cm Ka-band antenna."

The product is designed for use by Broadcasters, Satellite News Gathering, Oil and Gas Exploration and First Responders, Telecom, and communications service providers as well as for the government and military markets.

Ka-75VP -Stowed

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"C-COM's new and approved antenna model uses the most advanced proprietary one button controller technology which has been field tested and enhanced over many years," said Leslie Klein, President and CEO of C-COM Satellite Systems Inc.

The antenna system is now in full production and is available for immediate delivery.

About C-COM Satellite Systems Inc.

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C-COM Satellite Systems Inc. is a pioneer and world leader in the design, development, and manufacture of transportable and mobile satellite-based antenna systems. The Company has developed proprietary, auto-acquisition controller technology for rapid antenna pointing to a satellite with just the press of a button, enabling Broadband Internet via Satellite across a wide range of market applications worldwide, including regions unserved or underserved by terrestrial access technologies.

C-COM has sold more than 10,000 antenna systems, in over 100 countries, through a dedicated dealer network that provides service to a wide range of vertical markets such as Oil & Gas Exploration, Military Communications, Disaster Management, SNG, Emergency Communications, Cellular Backhaul, Telemedicine, Mobile Education, Government Services, Mobile Banking, and others. The Company's iNetVu brand is synonymous with high quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

C-COM is in late-stage development of a potentially revolutionary Ka-band, electronically steerable, modular, conformal, flat panel phased array antenna. In cooperation with the University of Waterloo, C-COM is engaged in the design of this unique antenna with the intent of providing low-cost, high-throughput mobility applications over satellite for land, airborne and maritime verticals. For additional information please visit www.c-comsat.com

iNetVu is a registered trademark of C-COM Satellite Systems Inc.

The Company is publicly traded on the Canadian Venture Exchange (TSXV: CMI) and on the US OTC Exchange (OTCQB: CYSNF).

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Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Statements about C-COM's expectations as to its performance after the COVID-pandemic and its intentions with respect to its Ka-band antenna version all contain forward-looking information. Several factors could cause actual events, performance or results to differ materially from the events, performance and results discussed in the forward-looking statements. The COVID pandemic may last longer than expected or C-COM's preparations may not translate into expected performance for any number of reasons, some of which are beyond C-COM Satellite Systems' control. Anticipated benefits of the new technology may not be realized, and new products and services may not be released or, if released may not gain market acceptance. Any of those events and others could influence future performance and C-COM Satellite Systems Inc.'s ability to achieve the results mentioned above. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and C-COM Satellite Systems Inc. does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Readers are directed to the risk factors associated with the business of C-COM Satellite Systems in the company's most recent MD&A available at www.SEDAR.com.

INVESTOR RELATIONS

C-COM Satellite Systems Inc.

Tel: (613) 745-4110 ext. 4950

Fax: (613) 745-7144

lklein@c-comsat.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/132992
DGAP-News: Hong Kong Baptist University / Key word(s): Miscellaneous

HKBU launches Turing AI Orchestra as next milestone in human-AI art co-creation



09.08.2022 / 14:10 CET/CEST

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



HKBU launches Turing AI Orchestra as next milestone in human-AI art co-creation HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach - 9 August 2022 - Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) has announced the launch of the world's first "Turing AI Orchestra" today (9 August) as the next milestone in its visionary plan to broaden the scope and explore potential opportunities in art co-creation by humans and artificial intelligence (AI). (From left) Professor Johnny M Poon, Ms Rosanna Choi, Professor James Tang Tuck-kong, Professor Alexander Wai, Professor Sun Dong, Dr Clement Chen, Professor Guo Yike, Ms Zhu Yihua, Mr Mohamed Butt and Ms Christine Chow. The Turing AI Orchestra is the world's first AI ensemble. By applying state-of-the-art AI technology, the Orchestra aims to achieve a new form of symbiotic artistic creation and performance between humans and AI systems. The announcement of the launch of the Orchestra was made at the "Human, Machine, Art, Creativity: International Symposium" co-organised by HKBU and the Hong Kong Productivity Council, at which world-renowned researchers and artists from academia and industry gathered to discuss the development of human-AI symbiotic art creativity. Mr John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of the HKSAR; Mr Xu Jie, Deputy Director-General, Department of International Cooperation, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China; Dr Zhang Zhihua, Director-General, Youth Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR, graced the occasion and gave video addresses. Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government also gave an opening address in person. Other officiating guests of the opening ceremony included Professor James Tang Tuck-kong, Secretary-General of the University Grants Committee; Ms Zhu Yihua, Deputy Director-General, New Territories Sub-office of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR; Mr Mohamed Butt, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Productivity Council; Dr Clement Chen, Chairman of the Council and the Court of HKBU; Ms Rosanna Choi, Treasurer of the Council and the Court of HKBU; Professor Alexander Wai, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKBU; Professor Guo Yike, Vice-President (Research and Development) of HKBU; Ms Christine Chow, Vice-President (Administration) and Secretary of HKBU; and Professor Johnny M Poon, Associate Vice-President (Interdisciplinary Research) of HKBU. In his address, Chief Executive Mr John Lee Ka-chiu said: "Hong Kong Baptist University, with its commitment in discovering and nurturing new technologies and big ideas, is a leading force in comprehensive research and development for arts technology. The pioneering and innovative project Building Platform Technologies for Symbiotic Creativity in Hong Kong is funded by the Research Grants Council. It is one of China's biggest artificial intelligence technology research projects. It seeks to radically advance human and AI interaction and contribute to the sustainability of our arts ecosystem." In his welcoming speech, Dr Clement Chen said: "With the emerging trend of applying technology to art creation, our scholars at HKBU are also pushing the frontiers of art-tech to transform the creation of art and culture. We are also impressed and encouraged by the increased amount of support offered by the National 14th Five-Year Plan and the HKSAR Government's drive to promote and develop art-tech. Against such a backdrop, our important initiatives will definitely support and spearhead the development of art-tech in Hong Kong and enable the SAR to assume a leading position in art-tech on the global stage." In his address, Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government said: "Leveraging the advanced development in the AI technologies, art creations can be transformed and propelled to the next level, bringing new experiences to audiences and significant socio-economic benefits to the city. I must say, the Hong Kong Baptist University has best demonstrated how AI can be a creative force in performing music, cross-media art and dance at its Symphony Orchestra Annual Gala Concert held last month. It truly marks a milestone in the history of arts tech, showing the harmonious collaboration between human and machine." Outlining the concept of the Turing AI Orchestra (TAIO), Professor Guo Yike said that it offers an open platform for artists and scientists from around the world to collaborate within a dynamic and innovative environment, and it will produce groundbreaking AI research that will disrupt the world of art. "The Turing AI Orchestra also echoes one of the project tasks stated in the project proposal - building a Digital Art and Policy Network, for symbiotic creativity collaboration and related policy innovation. It is envisaged that TAIO, as a vibrant and sustainable development base, can help us put our vision, philosophy and technology into practice via creative performances in the context of active international collaboration. By using Blockchain technologies, TAIO will realise the world's first Decentralised Autonomous Organisation (DAO) ecosystem for art creation through collaboration between scientists and artists. TAIO will promote transdisciplinary whole-person education to the next generation in Hong Kong. It will propel strategic policymaking by the Government to guide Hong Kong's cultural and creative industries development going forward, thus contributing toward building Hong Kong to be an international cultural exchange and Intellectual Property trading hub," said Professor Guo. Apart from launching the TAIO and introducing ongoing HKBU initiatives in human-AI symbiotic art creativity, today's Symposium also covered topics including the enabling technologies of symbiotic art creation and manifestation, the aesthetics and cognitive values of symbiotic art creativity, the new trend of the art economy with the ecosystem of Metaverse, new issues raised by the new forms of art in society, and the impact on art community stakeholders, among others. Following the first human-AI collaborative performance of its kind in the world at the Annual Gala Concert of the HKBU Symphony Orchestra on 14 July, today's Symposium is another key deliverable of the "Building Platform Technologies for Symbiotic Creativity in Hong Kong" research project supported by HK$52.84 million in funding from the Theme-based Research Scheme under the Research Grants Council. Media enquiries: Wong Suk-ling of the Communication and Public Relations Office (+852 3411 2119, hkbunews@hkbu.edu.hk).

09.08.2022 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Corporate News, transmitted by DGAP - a service of EQS Group AG.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



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The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation is pleased to announce that the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) an organization working in more than 35 countries to support people forced to flee has been selected as the 2022 Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize recipient and will receive $2.5 million in funding. As the world's largest annual humanitarian award presented to a nonprofit, the Hilton Humanitarian Prize recognizes extraordinary contributions toward alleviating human suffering. To date, the Hilton Foundation has awarded more than $41 million to recipients of the Prize. NRC joins the roster of 26 Prize Laureates, including CAMFED, Homeboy Industries, METAdrasi, SHOFCO, icddr,b and The Task Force for Global Health, among others.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005226/en/

Children playing around NRC's vehicle during a distribution in North Kivu in 2020. The Democratic Republic of the Congo tops NRC's neglected crises list for the second year running. Photo Credit: Tom Peyre-Costa/NRC

Peter Laugharn, president and CEO of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, said: "The Norwegian Refugee Council's work is imperative right now in terms of the organization's ability to reach people in the most difficult of circumstances, and to do so at scale. The Jury's selection of the Norwegian Refugee Council as the recipient of the 2022 Hilton Humanitarian Prize recognizes the importance of advocating for displaced people as they build a new future."

Since its foundation in 1946, NRC has effectively and courageously protected the rights of people who are displaced by violence and find themselves in extreme vulnerability during crisis. NRC works for civilians in armed conflict, prioritizing neglected and hard-to-reach areas where access to assistance is limited, and increasingly supports people displaced by natural disasters, the adverse effects of climate change and generalized violence. The organization listens to people in need and collaborates with local organizations and communities to deliver a response that is solutions-orientated and tailored to the context.

NRC currently works in more than 35 countries around the world facing both new and protracted humanitarian crises. This year alone, the organization has mobilized efforts after the earthquake in Afghanistan, during the war in Ukraine and the deepening drought in Somalia to name a few. In 2021, NRC supported 10 million people worldwide. NRC's work is driven by the needs of displaced people.

Jan Egeland, Secretary General of NRC, said: "We are honored to receive this prestigious humanitarian prize at a time when we are challenged like never before in reaching, aiding and protecting people forced to flee war and repression. We are witnessing one devastating crisis on top of the other, authoritarian regimes and brutal armed actors trying to block our access to those in need and donor purse strings being tightened, leaving aid budgets decimated. This makes the support and recognition from private sector donors such as the Hilton Foundation vital. The world's displaced must not be overlooked or forgotten."

Each year, the Hilton Foundation reviews nomination submissions from nonprofits throughout the world, and an independent, international panel of distinguished jurors makes the final selection after a rigorous vetting process. The following individuals served on the 2022 Hilton Humanitarian Prize jury: The Right Honourable Helen Clark, Leymah Gbowee, Steven M. Hilton, Sister Joyce Meyer, Her Majesty Queen Noor, PBVM, Zainab Salbi, Ann M. Veneman, and Dr. Ernesto Zedillo Ponce de Leon.

Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, said: "??Awarding the 2022 Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize to the Norwegian Refugee Council is a recognition of their outstanding work with a wide range of stakeholders to ease human suffering. The United Nations values the long experience, skills and networks that the NRC brings to the table, as we work closely together to meet the needs of refugees and displaced people around the world."

Filipo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, said: "I congratulate the Norwegian Refugee Council on winning this year's Hilton Humanitarian Prize. A long-standing and important partner of UNHCR, NRC is always on the front lines of crises, assisting refugees and other displaced people and making a critical difference to their lives. In a world where more than 100 million people are forced from their homes due to violence and persecution, I am happy to see that the tangible results of NRC's work are recognised with this important prize."

After two years of virtual engagements, the Hilton Humanitarian Symposium and Prize Ceremony will resume as an in-person event, under the theme "The Power of Perseverance." The Symposium and Prize Ceremony will take place on October 21, 2022, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA.

Nominations for the 2023 Hilton Humanitarian Prize will be open from August 19, 2022, to September 28, 2022.

About the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation:

International hotelier Conrad N. Hilton established the grantmaking foundation that bears his name in 1944 to help people living in poverty and experiencing disadvantage worldwide. Today, the work continues, concentrating on efforts to ensure healthy early childhood development and sustainable livelihoods for youth, support young people transitioning out of foster care, improve access to housing and support services for people experiencing homelessness, identify solutions to safe water access, and lift the work of Catholic sisters. Additionally, following selection by an independent, international jury, the Foundation annually awards the $2.5 million Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize to an organization doing extraordinary work to reduce human suffering. The Foundation is one of the world's largest, with approximately $8.5 billion in assets. It has awarded grants to date totaling more than $2.4 billion, $339 million worldwide in 2021. Please visit www.hiltonfoundation.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About NRC:

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) works to protect the rights of people who are displaced and vulnerable during crisis. They primarily operate in contexts affected by armed conflict, prioritizing neglected and hard-to-reach areas where access to assistance is limited. In some countries NRC also supports people affected by displacement as a result of disasters caused by natural hazards, the adverse effects of climate change and generalized violence. Founded in 1946, NRC works in more than 35 countries around the world facing both new and protracted humanitarian crises, and specializes in six areas: livelihoods and food security; education; shelter and settlements; information, counseling and legal assistance; protection from violence; and water, sanitation, and hygiene. For more information visit https://www.nrc.no/. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005226/en/

Contacts:

Shelter PR Contacts:

Cara Tripicchio and Marla Farrell

HiltonPrizeTeam@shelterpr.com

Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Contact:

Julia Friedman, Senior Communications Manager

julia@hiltonfoundation.org

NRC Contact:

Jessica Wanless, Global Media Adviser

jessica.wanless@nrc.no
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Taura Gold Inc. (TSXV:TORA) (the "Company" or "Taura") is pleased to announce that Paul Criddle has been appointed a director of the Company.

Mr. Criddle, a metallurgist, is a proven mine builder with many years of operating and project development experience in West Africa, Australia and Papua New Guinea. He was previously the Chief Operating Officer for the West African assets of Roxgold from 2013 to 2022 where he was responsible for the construction and operation of the Yaramoko Gold Project in Burkina Faso and delivery of the Definitive Feasibility Study for the Seguela Gold Project in Cote d'Ivoire. His previous roles include Chief Operating Officer at Azimuth Resources Ltd. where he was responsible for resource growth and development studies in Guyana. Prior to this he was the Acting Chief Operating Officer of Perseus Mining Ltd. ("Perseus") where he was responsible for the development of the Edikan Gold Mine in Ghana and the Definitive Feasibility Study for the Sissingue Gold Project in Cote d'Ivoire. Before joining Perseus, Mr. Criddle managed the construction, commissioning and operation of the Sabodala Gold Project for Mineral Deposits Ltd. He has also held a variety of senior technical roles at Placer Dome/Barrick in Australia and Papua New Guinea.

The Company also advises that Karly Oliver has resigned as director. The Company wishes to thank Ms. Oliver and wishes her well in her future endeavours.

About Taura Gold

Taura Gold is focused on gold exploration in Canada. It is currently actively exploring the Shabu River Project in the Red Lake District of Northwestern Ontario.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF TAURA GOLD INC.

Dominic Verdejo

President and Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please call 604-678-5308 or email info@tauragold.com.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Taura Gold Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711344/Taura-Appoints-New-Director
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Omai Gold Mines Corp. (TSXV: OMG) (OTC Pink: OMGGF) ("Omai" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Dwight Walker as the Company's Chief Financial Officer effective immediately. The Company thanks Sandra Evans for her service as interim CFO. The Company also announces the granting of incentive stock options to the new Officer.

Mr. Walker is a CPA with over 30 years experience in finance and administration. He has served as the chief financial officer of several public companies in the mining sector. Mr. Walker is the former CFO of ECU Silver Mining Inc., an emerging Mexico-based silver producer, and part of the team that sold the company through a plan of arrangement transaction at a value in excess of $300-million.

The Company has granted incentive stock options to Mr. Walker to purchase up to 300,000 common shares of the Company pursuant to the Company's stock option plan. The options have a five-year term at an exercise price of $0.085 per share.

Elaine Ellingham, Chief Executive Officer, noted, "We are pleased to welcome Mr. Walker to our team. He joins Omai Gold at an exciting time as we move forward towards our second NI 43-101 in less than a year. We announced a maiden resource1 for the new Wenot deposit at the beginning of this year and after completing our review and modelling of the adjacent Fennell historic resource, originally prepared by Iamgold in 2007, we have engaged P&E Mining Consultants Inc. as QP to complete an updated Fennell Mineral Resource Estimate. This report will include an update to the Wenot Mineral Resource Estimate. Since the beginning of 2022, we have intersected gold mineralization in eleven holes that extend the Wenot shear to the west and east by 900 and 400 metres respectively, with drilling continuing."

Qualified Person

Elaine Ellingham is a Qualified Person (QP) under National Instrument 43-101 "Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects" and has approved the technical information contained in this news release. Ms. Ellingham is not considered to be independent for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101.

1 The Company filed an NI43-101 technical report titled "TECHNICAL REPORT AND INITIAL MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE OF THE WENOT GOLD DEPOSIT, OMAI PROPERTY, POTARO MINING DISTRICT NO. 2, GUYANA", prepared by P&E Mining Consultants Inc dated February 18, 2022 on the SEDAR website www.sedar.com in support of the Wenot Mineral Resource Estimate announced January 4, 2022.

The Wenot Mineral Resource Estimate currently consists of:

- 16.7 million tonnes of indicated mineral resources averaging 1.31 grams of gold per tonne for 703,300 ounces of gold, and

- 19.5 million tonnes of inferred mineral resources averaging 1.50 grams of gold per tonne for 940,000 ounces of gold.

ABOUT OMAI GOLD

Omai Gold Mines Corp., through its wholly owned subsidiary Avalon Gold Exploration Inc., holds a 100% interest in the Omai Prospecting License that includes the past producing Omai Gold Mine, and a 100% interest in the adjoining Eastern Flats Mining Permits. Once South America's largest producing gold mine, Omai produced over 3.7 million ounces of gold between 1993 and 2005. In 2022, the Company announced an initial Mineral Resource Estimate on the new Wenot gold deposit. The Company's short-term priorities are to build on the known Mineral Resources, while advancing exploration on key targets, providing a solid opportunity to create significant value for all stakeholders.

For further information, please see our website www.omaigoldmines.com or contact:

Elaine Ellingham P.Geo.

President & CEO

elaine@omaigoldmines.com

Phone: +1 416-473-5351

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the timing of completion of exploration, trenching and drill programs, and the potential for the Omai Gold Project to allow Omai to build significant gold Mineral Resources at attractive grades, and forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive regulatory approvals; the price of gold and copper; and the results of current exploration. Further, the Mineral Resource data set out in the Omai Gold news release are estimates, and no assurance can be given that the anticipated tonnages and grades will be achieved or that the indicated level of recovery will be realized. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133239
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Tower Resources Ltd. (TSXV: TWR) ("Tower" or the "Company") is pleased to report that it is preparing to resume diamond drilling on the newly discovered Lightning Zone on the Company's Rabbit North property near Kamloops, British Columbia, between New Gold's New Afton underground Cu-Au mine and Teck's Highland Valley open pit Cu-Mo mine (see Fig. 1), and that it has identified a strong new gold grain dispersal train along a major, parallel structure 1 km to the west.

Diamond Drilling Program

Six to eight holes are planned on the Lightning Zone to expand the zone both laterally and to depth near the long gold intersections of discovery hole RN21-026 (95 m of 1.40 g/t Au including 19.2 m of 4.21 g/t Au) and follow-up holes RN22-028 (138 m of 1.55 g/t Au including 24.5 m of 4.76 g/t Au) and RN22-029 (70.5 m of 1.78 g/t Au including 13.5 m of 4.92 g/t Au) (see Fig. 2 and Tower's January 11 and June 22, 2022 press releases).

Several holes will be drilled along strike at 50 m step-outs both south-southeast and north-northwest of Hole 026 based on the north-northwest strike of the Lightning Zone determined from the six-hole March-April drilling program (see Fig. 2 and Tower's July 13, 2022 press release). One hole may be drilled down the steeply dipping zone to better gauge its potential depth which is already known to be substantial because Hole 028 exited the zone at a vertical depth of approximately 150 m (500 feet).

Durand Creek Train

The new gold grain dispersal train, named the Durand Creek Train (see Fig. 3), resulted from the two till heavy mineral surveys that Tower performed on the Southern Extension and eastern and western parts of the Core Claims in May and October, 2021 (see Tower's August 10 and November 12, 2021 press releases).

The inaugural May survey identified a wide gold grain dispersal train originating in the till overlying the Cu-Au endowed Durand Stock on the eastern part of the Core Claims, east of Durand Creek, and extending down-ice at 150 for 5-10 km over a 3 km embayment in the claims and onto the Southern Extension claims (see Fig. 4). The tail of dispersal train on the Southern Extension was too wide for the gold grains to be derived solely from the east side of Durand Creek, indicating that part of the train is sourced from the west side which has historically been thought infertile and has never been explored.

The May till survey also identified a much stronger gold grain subtrain, the Dominic Lake Train, just south of the Durand Stock, indicating the presence beneath the till of an undiscovered Au or Cu-Au zone superior to any of the nine known Cu-Au zones in the stock.

In the October survey, infill sampling on the Dominic Lake Train traced the train 600 m up ice, leading to the drill discovery of the Lightning Zone 300 m further up-ice in December, just seven months and ~$400,000 from collection of the first till sample. As well, reconnaissance-scale till sampling was performed west of Durand Creek. Due to the emphasis on the Dominic Creek Train, these lower-priority samples were not tested for gold grains until early this year, delaying the identification and evaluation of the Durand Creek Train.

The Durand Creek Train is ~600 m wide and hugs the west side of Durand Creek which is underlain by a major structure, the Durand Valley Fault (see Fig. 3). Importantly, this fault has the same north-northwest trend as the Lightning Zone, suggesting that (a) the fault itself may be mineralized; and (b) the Lightning shear zone may be a parallel subsidiary fault.

The strength of the Durand Creek Train increases progressively up-ice to >100 gold grains per sample. While the till samples within the train were too widely spaced to resolve the source of the gold grains, the train appears to originate from the general area where Durand Creek, which follows a deep valley with a steep gradient, bends sharply to the west, potentially indicating a dilative, fluid-permissive, triple junction fault intersection. Infill sampling similar to that performed so successfully on the Dominic Lake Train is planned for the Durand Creek Train, possibly in October, to locate its source sufficiently closely for diamond drill testing.

Methods and Qualified Person

Overburden Drilling Management Ltd. (ODM) planned and executed the till survey and processed the samples at the company's heavy indicator mineral laboratory in Ottawa, Ontario. The sample sites were pre-selected with the aid of stereo air photos.

ODM supplied a two person-person field crew led by Mathew Duffy, MSc. Geology, GIT, to collect the samples, with Donald Holmes, P.Geo. and Stuart Averill, P.Geo., assisting and supervising for the first three days. At each site, if till was evident, a pit was excavated into the C-horizon of the post-glacial soil profile, typically to a depth of 0.5-0.8 m, to reach minimally oxidized, structurally compact till, the subglacially deposited variety that is required for an effective survey. If this type of till was not present in the initial pit or exposed within 100 m, a gap was left in the survey. At every 20th site, a duplicate sample was collected for quality assurance purposes.

The till from each pit was sieved at 8 mm to obtain approximately 12 kg of -8 mm material which, when further screened in the laboratory, yields approximately 10 g -2 mm sandy silt, the particle size fraction that is normally processed for heavy indicator minerals.

Prior to extracting the heavy mineral fraction from the samples, ODM removed a representative 500 g split and further sieved it at 0.063 mm to separate the fine silt + clay fraction. This fraction was analyzed geochemically in Kamloops, B.C., by Actlabs Ltd., a laboratory certified as ISO/IEC 17025 Accredited (Lab 790) by the Standards Council of Canada. Gold was determined by fire assay/atomic absorption ("FA/AA") analysis of a solute obtained by aqua regia acid digestion. Thirty-five additional elements were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) on the same solute. No milling prior to acid digestion was required due to the very fine particle size of the submitted samples. The detection limits for the elements of greatest interest at Rabbit North - Au and Cu - were 5 ppb and 1 ppm, respectively.

About Tower Resources

Tower is a Canadian based mineral exploration company focused on the discovery and advancement of economic mineral projects in the Americas. The Company's key exploration assets, both in B.C., are the Rabbit North copper-gold porphyry project located between the New Afton copper-gold and Highland Valley copper mines in the Kamloops mining district and the Nechako gold-silver project near Artemis' Blackwater project.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Tower Resources Ltd.

Joe Dhami, President and CEO

(778) 996-4730

www.towerresources.ca

Reader Advisory

This news release may contain statements which constitute "forward-looking information", including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities of the Company. The words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future business activities and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, fluctuations in market prices, successes of the operations of the Company, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such information will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking information except as required under the applicable securities laws.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.







Figure 1 - Location of Tower's Rabbit North property relative to the active mines of the Kamloops district.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5023/133184_ce77109dc4c6b991_002full.jpg



Figure 2 - Plan view of the Lightning Zone with the main Au intercepts projected to surface.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5023/133184_ce77109dc4c6b991_003full.jpg

Figure 3 - Gold grain content of the till in the area of the Durand Creek gold dispersal train. The average sample weight was 10 kg.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5023/133184_ce77109dc4c6b991_004full.jpg

Figure 4 - Gold grain results from the May, 2021 till survey. Note that the anomalous gold grain values on the western half of the Southern Extension are too far west for the grains to be derived from the Cu-Au endowed Durand Stock on the eastern part of the Core Claims east of Durand Creek, suggesting the presence of a second gold source west of the creek.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5023/133184_ce77109dc4c6b991_005full.jpg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133184
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - First Phosphate Corp. ("First Phosphate" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a non-brokered private placement financing to raise up to $1,000,000 (the "Offering"). The Offering is anticipated to be structured as a best-efforts private placement comprised of 4,000,000 common shares in the capital of the Company ("Shares") at a price of $0.25 per Shares. The Company reserves the right to increase the size of the Offering at its sole discretion. Proceeds from the Offering will be used for general working capital purposes.

The Company may engage finders and pay the finders a cash fee up to 8% of the gross proceeds raised in the Offering. Additionally, it is anticipated that finders will receive that number of compensation warrants ("Compensation Warrants") totaling up to 8% of the number of Shares sold pursuant to the Offering. The Compensation Warrants are exercisable at a price of $0.25 per Share, for a period of 24 months after the closing of the Offering.

The Offering is expected to close on or about August 19, 2022, or such other date as the Company may determine. Completion of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals. There can be no assurance that the Offering will be completed, whether in whole or in part. All securities issued by the Company in connection with the Offering will be subject to a statutory four month hold period. Furthermore, the Shares issued pursuant to the Offering shall be subject to a contractual lock-up with 25% released upon the Company's being listed for trading on a stock exchange, and 25% released on the 4, 8 and 12 month anniversary of the initial release.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities being offered have not been, nor will they be, registered under the 1933 Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act, and applicable state securities laws.

Related Party Transaction

Certain insiders of directors, officers and insiders of the Company, intend to subscribe for Shares in the Offering. The participation of such insiders in the Offering constitutes "related party transactions" as defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 under sections 5.5(a), 5.5(c), 5.7(1)(b) of MI 61-101 as the Company is not listed on a specified market, the Shares are being purchased for cash, the fair market value of the Shares being purchased will not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization and the Shares being purchased will not have fair market value more than $2,500,000. The Company did not file a material change report related to the Offering more than 21 days before the expected closing of the Offering as required by MI 61-101 as the Company requires the consideration it will receive in connection with the Offering immediately for working capital purposes.

About First Phosphate Corp

First Phosphate is a mineral exploration and development company fully dedicated to extracting and refining advanced phosphate material for the LFP Battery industry. First Phosphate is committed to producing at high purity level, at full ESG-grade scale and with low anticipated carbon footprint. First Phosphate plans to integrate directly into the R&D and supply chain functions of major North American LFP Battery producers that require battery grade phosphate material that emanates from a consistent and secure supply source. First Phosphate holds 1,234 sq. km of total land claims in the Saguenay Region of Quebec, Canada that it is actively developing. First Phosphate deposits consist of rare igneous rock formation that generally yields high purity phosphate concentrate with fewer deleterious trace elements.

For additional information on First Phosphate Corp.:

Bennett Kurtz, CFO & Director

Telephone: 416 200-0657

Email: Bennett@firstphosphate.com

Website: www.FirstPhosphate.com

Forward-Looking Information and Cautionary Statements

Certain information in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "expect", "potential", "believe", "intend" or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements relating to: the anticipated timing of the closing of the Offering; and the anticipated use of proceeds from the Offering; the receipt of required approvals.

These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements, including but not limited to: the Company's inability to complete the Offering and/or utilize the use of proceeds on the terms and within the timelines anticipated or at all; and the Company's inability to obtain the required approvals to complete the Offering on the proposed terms and timeline or at all.

Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and reflect the Company's expectations as of the date hereof and are subject to change thereafter. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.

THIS NEWS RELEASE IS INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION IN CANADA ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133207
GUERNSEY / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Burford Capital Limited (NYSE:BUR)(LSE:BUR), the leading global finance and asset management firm focused on law, today announces its financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2022 ("1H 2022"). 1 The Burford Capital 2022 Interim Report, including financial statements (the "2022 Interim Report"), is available at http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/4301V_1-2022-8-9.pdf or on the Burford Capital website at www.burfordcapital.com/shareholders . In addition, a financial data supplement will be available on the Burford Capital website at the same URL.

Christopher Bogart, Chief Executive Officer of Burford Capital, commented:

"The first half of 2022 saw substantial progress towards what we envision as a robust post-Covid-19 pandemic future for Burford. Court activity gradually resumed, and despite backlogs we started to see progress in a number of pending matters, translating into a 31% increase in consolidated capital provision income. Notably, we saw a positive development in a matter in July - not reflected in our first half numbers - that should generate more than $50 million in consolidated profit in the second half of 2022. Even with slow realizations, we generated more than enough cash to cover our current expenses and interest payments.

"Our operating income rose sharply, to $52 million consolidated and $27 million Burford-only, and would have been higher still but for some non-cash accounting impacts. We raised over $1 billion Group-wide in new capital for deployment and extended our sovereign wealth fund arrangement while capturing a greater share of assets for equity shareholders. We continued to write a substantial amount of new business, setting a Burford-only first half record notwithstanding the legal world's slow return to normalcy. The YPF cases are now fully briefed and awaiting court resolution. Economic challenges and disruptions of the sort now being witnessed across the global economy tend to be good for our business."

1 All figures in this announcement are unaudited and presented on a consolidated basis in accordance with the generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("US GAAP"), unless otherwise stated. Definitions, reconciliations and information additional to those set forth in this announcement are available on the Burford Capital website and in the 2022 Interim Report.

1H 2022 Highlights

New business

Burford-only capital provision-direct, reflecting assets capable of generating our highest profits for equity shareholders

Record 1H 2022 new commitments of $295 million (1H 2021: $284 million)

Deployments of $122 million (1H 2021: $214 million); does not include forthcoming $64 million deployment from June 2022 new commitment awaiting satisfaction of funding conditions 1

Group-wide data to show overall activity levels albeit with varying contributions to profitability

New commitments of $445 million (1H 2021: $527 million, which includes one-time low-fee $100 million sidecar arrangement with our sovereign wealth fund partner that was not repeated in 2022)

New deployments of $260 million (1H 2021: $434 million); does not include forthcoming $85 million deployment from June 2022 commitment awaiting satisfaction of funding conditions 1

1 This represents expected near-term deployment for a law firm portfolio commitment made on June 30, 2022; the deployment is contractually required subject to the satisfaction of certain funding conditions.

Portfolio and liquidity

Group-wide portfolio grew to $5.5 billion at June 30, 2022 (December 31, 2021: $5.1 billion), driven by new commitments

Cumulative return on invested capital since inception from Burford-only capital provision-direct assets remained consistent at 92% (December 31, 2021: 93%); IRR of 30% (December 31, 2021: 30%)

Significant external capital raising activity in 1H 2022 with more than $1 billion raised $360 million via Rule 144A/Regulation S private placement of 6.875% senior notes due 2030 $300 million from limited partners for new pre-settlement fund, the Burford Advantage Fund $350 million from limited partners for new post-settlement fund, Burford Alternative Income Fund II

Burford-only liquidity of $430 million at June 30, 2022 (December 31, 2021: $315 million)

Income

Total revenues of $106 million (1H 2021: $92 million) included capital provision income of $110 million (1H 2021: $84 million), up 31% from 1H 2021, reflecting a higher level of ongoing case activity and portfolio progression, as Covid-19 pandemic-related disruption started to ease

Burford-only capital provision-direct realized gains of $27 million (1H 2021: $77 million, reflecting outsized matter in 2021) In July 2022, we saw a positive development in a matter that should generate more than $50 million in consolidated profit in 2H 2022

Annualized Burford-only capital provision-direct realized loss rate in 1H 2022 of only 0.5% of average portfolio at cost (2021: 0.8%), likely reflective of slow court processes

Operating income of $52 million (1H 2021: $7 million), with the significant increase from 1H 2021 arising from (i) higher capital provision income and (ii) lower operating expenses due primarily to an outsized legacy asset recovery charge in 1H 2021

Net income of $3.5 million (1H 2021: net loss $20m) would have been more than $25 million higher without foreign exchange, cash management and tax non-cash charges. In 2021, our $19.9m net loss would not have been materially affected by any of these items. Moreover, if the foreign exchange benefit of our Sterling bonds were moved "above the line" this period, that would have added a further $35 million to net income (vs. a $9m deduction in 2021)

Net loss attributable to Burford Capital Limited shareholders improved to $22 million (1H 2021: $29 million) Net loss per ordinary and diluted share of $0.10 (1H 2021: $0.13)



Capital

Total shareholders' equity attributable to Burford Capital Limited remained steady at $1.6 billion at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021 Total shareholders' equity attributable to Burford Capital Limited of $7.09 per ordinary share at June 30, 2022 (December 31, 2021: $7.08 per share) Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited (non-GAAP) of $6.48 per ordinary share at June 30, 2022 (December 31, 2021: $6.47 per share)

Declared interim 2022 dividend of 6.25 per ordinary share payable on December 1, 2022 to shareholders of record on November 4, 2022, with an ex-dividend date of November 3, 2022

2 Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with US GAAP. See "Reconciliation of tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share" below for a reconciliation of tangible book value per ordinary share to total Burford Capital Limited equity, the most comparable measure calculated in accordance with US GAAP.

Investor and Analyst Conference Call

Burford will host a conference call for investors and analysts at 10.00am EDT / 3.00pm BST / 4.00pm CEST on Tuesday, August 9, 2022.

Burford encourages investors and analysts to pre-register for dedicated audio webcast access via: https://www.investis-live.com/burfordcapital/62d908ef299ad30e00fc8ea2/rghu .

The dial-in number for the results call is +1 646 664-1960 (US local) / +44 (0)20 3936 2999 (UK local) / +44 (0)20 3936 2999 (all other locations) and the access code is 900462. To minimize the risk of delayed access, participants who have not pre-registered are urged to dial into the results call by 9.45am EDT / 2.45pm BST / 3.45pm CEST.

An accompanying interim 2022 results presentation for investors and analysts will also be made available on the Burford Capital website: http://www.burfordcapital.com/shareholders .

Following the results call, a replay facility will be available until Tuesday, August 23, 2022, by dialling +1 845 709-8569 (US local) / +44 (0)20 3936 3001 (UK local) / +44 (0)20 3936 3001 (all other locations) and using the replay access code 754450.

Summary Financial Statements and Reconciliations

The tables below set forth summaries of the condensed consolidated and Burford-only statements of operations for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, the condensed consolidated and Burford-only statements of financial position at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021 and corresponding reconciliations from consolidated to Burford-only financial results.

Summary condensed consolidated statements of operations

For the Six Months Ended June 30, ($ in thousands) 2022 2021 Capital provision income 110,278 84,428 Asset management income 5,508 4,329 Services and other income (9,874 ) 3,132 Total revenues 105,912 91,889 Total operating expenses 54,188 84,644 Operating income 51,724 7,245 Finance costs and loss on debt extinguishment 37,477 27,262 Foreign currency transactions losses 3,024 396 Income/(loss) before income taxes 11,223 (20,413 ) (Provision for)/benefit from income taxes (7,725 ) 559 Net income/(loss) 3,498 (19,854 ) Net loss attributable to Burford Capital Limited shareholders (21,501 ) (28,590 ) Net loss attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share: Basic $ (0.10 ) $ (0.13 ) Diluted $ (0.10 ) $ (0.13 )

Summary Burford-only statements of operations

For the Six Months Ended June 30, ($ in thousands) 2022 2021 Capital provision income 73,775 66,433 Asset management income 17,022 11,722 Services and other income (10,885 ) 2,736 Total revenues 79,912 80,891 Total operating expenses 53,190 82,382 Operating income/(loss) 26,722 (1,491 ) Finance costs and loss on debt extinguishment 37,477 27,262 Foreign currency transactions losses 3,021 396 Income/(loss) before income taxes (13,776 ) (29,149 ) (Provision for)/benefit from income taxes (7,725 ) 559 Net income/(loss) (21,501 ) (28,590 ) Net loss attributable to Burford Capital Limited shareholders (21,501 ) (28,590 ) Net loss per share: Basic $ (0.10 ) $ (0.13 ) Diluted $ (0.10 ) $ (0.13 )

Reconciliation of summary condensed consolidated statements of operations to summary Burford-only statements of operations

For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2022 ($ in thousands) Consolidated Strategic Value Fund BOF-C Colorado Advantage Fund Other Burford-only Capital provision income 110,278 (2,277 ) (24,822 ) 1,368 (820 ) (9,952 ) 73,775 Asset management income 5,508 218 11,296 - - - 17,022 Services and other income (9,874 ) - - (1,380 ) - 369 (10,885 ) Total revenues 105,912 (2,059 ) (13,526 ) (12 ) (820 ) (9,583 ) 79,912 Total operating expenses 54,188 (702 ) 62 (12 ) (241 ) (105 ) 53,190 Operating income 51,724 (1,357 ) (13,588 ) - (579 ) (9,478 ) 26,722 Finance costs and loss on debt extinguishment 37,477 - - - - - 37,477 Foreign currency transactions (losses) 3,024 - - - - (3 ) 3,021 Income/(loss) before income taxes 11,223 - - - - - (13,776 ) Provision for income taxes (7,725 ) - - - - - (7,725 ) Net income/(loss) 3,498 (1,357 ) (13,588 ) - (579 ) (9,475 ) (21,501 ) Net income attributable to non-controlling interests 24,999 (1,357 ) (13,588 ) - (579 ) (9,475 ) - Net loss attributable to Burford Capital Limited shareholders (21,501 ) - - - - - (21,501 )

Summary condensed consolidated statements of financial position



At ($ in thousands) June 30, 2022 December 31, 2021 Total assets 3,845,340 3,524,706 Total liabilities 1,813,521 1,584,016 Total Burford Capital Limited equity 1,550,410 1,551,790 Non-controlling interests 481,409 388,900 Total shareholders' equity 2,031,819 1,940,690 Total shareholders' equity attributable to Burford Capital Limited per basic ordinary share $ 7.09 $ 7.08 Total shareholders' tangible equity attributable to Burford Capital Limited per basic ordinary share $ 6.48 $ 6.47

Reconciliation of summary condensed consolidated statements of financial position to summary Burford-only statements of financial position

At June 30, 2022 ($ in thousands) Consolidated Strategic Value Fund BOF-C Colorado Advantage Fund Other Burford-only Total assets 3,845,340 (12,292 ) (399,733 ) (381,797 ) (15,699 ) (70,540 ) 2,965,279 Total liabilities 1,813,521 (255 ) (4,098 ) (381,797 ) (131 ) (12,371 ) 1,414,869 Total shareholders' equity 2,031,819 (12,037 ) (395,635 ) - (15,568 ) (58,169 ) 1,550,410

Reconciliation of tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share

The tables below set forth the reconciliations of tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share to total Burford Capital Limited equity, the most comparable measure calculated in accordance with US GAAP, at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021.

At June 30, 2022 ($ in thousands, except share data) Comment Total Burford Capital Limited equity 1,550,410

Condensed consolidated statements of financial position less: Goodwill (133,919 ) Condensed consolidated statements of financial position Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited 1,416,491 Basic ordinary shares outstanding 218,581,877 Condensed consolidated statements of operations Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share 6.48

Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited divided by basic weighted average ordinary shares outstanding

At December 31, 2021 ($ in thousands, except share data) Comment Total Burford Capital Limited equity 1,551,790 Condensed consolidated statements of financial position less: Goodwill (134,019 ) Condensed consolidated statements of financial position Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited 1,417,771 Basic ordinary shares outstanding 219,049,877 Condensed consolidated statements of operations Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share 6.47 Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited divided by basic weighted average ordinary shares outstanding

Definitions and Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Alternative Performance Measures

Burford reports its financial results in accordance with US GAAP. US GAAP requires us to present financial statements that consolidate some of the limited partner interests in funds we manage as well as assets held on our balance sheet where we have a partner or minority investor. We therefore refer to various presentations of our financial results as follows:

Consolidated refers to assets, liabilities and activities that include those third-party interests, partially owned subsidiaries and special purpose vehicles that we are required to consolidate under US GAAP. At the date of this announcement, the major entities where there is also a third-party partner in, or owner of, those entities include BCIM Strategic Value Master Fund, LP, Burford Opportunity Fund C LP, Burford Advantage Master Fund LP, Colorado Investments Limited ("Colorado") and several other entities in which Burford holds investments where there is also a third-party partner in, or owner of, those entities.

refers to assets, liabilities and activities that include those third-party interests, partially owned subsidiaries and special purpose vehicles that we are required to consolidate under US GAAP. At the date of this announcement, the major entities where there is also a third-party partner in, or owner of, those entities include BCIM Strategic Value Master Fund, LP, Burford Opportunity Fund C LP, Burford Advantage Master Fund LP, Colorado Investments Limited ("Colorado") and several other entities in which Burford holds investments where there is also a third-party partner in, or owner of, those entities. Burford-only refers to assets, liabilities and activities that pertain only to Burford on a proprietary basis, excluding any third-party interests and the portions of jointly owned entities owned by others.

refers to assets, liabilities and activities that pertain only to Burford on a proprietary basis, excluding any third-party interests and the portions of jointly owned entities owned by others. Group-wide refers to the totality of assets managed by Burford, including those portions of the funds owned by third parties and including funds that are not consolidated into Burford's condensed consolidated financial statements. Group-wide is therefore the sum of Burford-only and non-controlling interests in consolidated and non-consolidated funds. Group-wide does not include third-party interests in capital provision assets, the economics of which have been sold to those third parties, that do not meet the criteria to be recognized as a sale under US GAAP. This includes the third-party interests in Colorado and other capital provision asset subparticipations.

We subdivide our capital provision assets into two categories:

Direct , which includes all of our capital provision assets that we have originated directly ( i.e. , not through participation in a fund) from our balance sheet. We also include direct ( i.e. , not through participation in a fund) complex strategies assets in this category.

, which includes all of our capital provision assets that we have originated directly ( , not through participation in a fund) from our balance sheet. We also include direct ( , not through participation in a fund) complex strategies assets in this category. Indirect , which includes our balance sheet's participations in two of our funds ( i.e. , BCIM Strategic Value Master Fund, LP and Burford Advantage Master Fund LP).

We also use certain unaudited alternative performance measures, including:

Internal Rate of Return ("IRR") is a discount rate that makes the net present value of a series of cash flows equal to zero and is expressed as a percentage figure. We compute IRR on concluded (including partially concluded) legal finance assets by treating that entire portfolio (or, when noted, a subset thereof) as one undifferentiated pool of capital and measuring actual and, if necessary, estimated inflows and outflows from that pool, allocating investment cost appropriately. IRRs do not include unrealized gains.

("IRR") is a discount rate that makes the net present value of a series of cash flows equal to zero and is expressed as a percentage figure. We compute IRR on concluded (including partially concluded) legal finance assets by treating that entire portfolio (or, when noted, a subset thereof) as one undifferentiated pool of capital and measuring actual and, if necessary, estimated inflows and outflows from that pool, allocating investment cost appropriately. IRRs do not include unrealized gains. Return on invested capital ("ROIC") from a concluded asset is the absolute amount of realizations from such asset in excess of the amount of expenditure incurred in funding such asset divided by the amount of expenditure incurred, expressed as a percentage figure. ROIC is a measure of our ability to generate absolute returns on our assets. Some industry participants express returns on a multiple of invested capital ("MOIC " ) instead of a ROIC basis. MOIC includes the return of capital and, therefore, is 1x higher than ROIC. In other words, 70% ROIC is the same as 1.70x MOIC.

Other unaudited alternative performance measures and terms we use include:

Commitment is the amount of financing we agree to provide for a legal finance asset. Commitments can be definitive (requiring us to provide funding on a schedule or, more often, when certain expenses are incurred) or discretionary (allowing us to provide funding after reviewing and approving a future matter). Unless otherwise indicated, commitments include deployed cost and undrawn commitments.

is the amount of financing we agree to provide for a legal finance asset. Commitments can be definitive (requiring us to provide funding on a schedule or, more often, when certain expenses are incurred) or discretionary (allowing us to provide funding after reviewing and approving a future matter). Unless otherwise indicated, commitments include deployed cost and undrawn commitments. Deployment refers to the funding provided for an asset, which adds to our invested cost in such asset.

refers to the funding provided for an asset, which adds to our invested cost in such asset. Deployed cost is the amount of funding we have provided for an asset at the applicable point in time.

is the amount of funding we have provided for an asset at the applicable point in time. Realization: A legal finance asset is realized when the asset is concluded ( i.e. , when litigation risk has been resolved). A realization will result in us receiving cash or, occasionally, non-cash assets or recognizing a due from settlement receivable, reflecting what we are owed on the asset.

A legal finance asset is realized when the asset is concluded ( , when litigation risk has been resolved). A realization will result in us receiving cash or, occasionally, non-cash assets or recognizing a due from settlement receivable, reflecting what we are owed on the asset. Realized gain / loss reflects the total amount of gain or loss generated by a legal finance asset when it is realized, calculated simply as realized proceeds less deployed cost, without regard for any previously recognized fair value adjustment.

reflects the total amount of gain or loss generated by a legal finance asset when it is realized, calculated simply as realized proceeds less deployed cost, without regard for any previously recognized fair value adjustment. Unrealized gain / loss represents the fair value of our assets over or under their funded cost, as determined in accordance with the requirements of the applicable US GAAP standards, for the relevant financial reporting period (condensed consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income) or cumulatively (condensed consolidated statement of financial position).

represents the fair value of our assets over or under their funded cost, as determined in accordance with the requirements of the applicable US GAAP standards, for the relevant financial reporting period (condensed consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income) or cumulatively (condensed consolidated statement of financial position). YPF-related assets refers to our Petersen and Eton Park legal finance assets, which are two claims relating to Argentina's nationalization of YPF S.A., the Argentine energy company.

We also use certain non-GAAP financial measures, including:

Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share is calculated by subtracting intangible assets (such as goodwill) from total Burford Capital Limited equity and dividing the difference by the total number of outstanding ordinary shares. Tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share is a non-GAAP financial measure and should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with US GAAP. The most directly comparable US GAAP measure is total Burford Capital Limited equity as set forth in our condensed consolidated statements of financial position. We believe that tangible book value attributable to Burford Capital Limited per ordinary share is an important measure of our financial condition and is useful to management and investors when assessing capital adequacy and our ability to generate earnings on tangible equity invested by our shareholders.

For additional information, including reconciliations of our non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable US GAAP measures and reconciliations of our alternative performance measures, see our interim report on the Form 6-K for the six months ended June 30, 2022 filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on August 9, 2022 and made available on our website at www.burfordcapital.com/shareholders . Non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, financial measures calculated in accordance with US GAAP.

For further information, please contact:

Burford Capital Limited For investor and analyst inquiries: Robert Bailhache, Head of Investor Relations, EMEA and Asia - email +44 (0)20 3530 2023 Jim Ballan, Head of Investor Relations, Americas - email +1 (646) 793 9176 For press inquiries: David Helfenbein, Vice President, Public Relations - email +1 (212) 235 6824 Numis Securities Limited - NOMAD and Joint Broker +44 (0)20 7260 1000 Giles Rolls Charlie Farquhar Jefferies International Limited - Joint Broker +44 (0)20 7029 8000 Graham Davidson Tony White

About Burford Capital

Burford Capital is the leading global finance and asset management firm focused on law. Its businesses include litigation finance and risk management, asset recovery and a wide range of legal finance and advisory activities. Burford is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BUR) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: BUR), and it works with companies and law firms around the world from its principal offices in New York, London, Chicago, Washington, DC, Singapore, Sydney and Hong Kong.

For more information, please visit www.burfordcapital.com.

This communication shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any ordinary shares or other securities of Burford.

This release does not constitute an offer of any Burford fund. Burford Capital Investment Management LLC, which acts as the fund manager of all Burford funds, is registered as an investment adviser with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The information provided herein is for informational purposes only. Past performance is not indicative of future results. The information contained herein is not, and should not be construed as, an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities (including, without limitation, interests or shares in the funds). Any such offer or solicitation may be made only by means of a final confidential private placement memorandum and other offering documents.

Forward-looking statements

This announcement contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, regarding assumptions, expectations, projections, intentions and beliefs about future events. These statements are intended as "forward-looking statements". In some cases, predictive, future-tense or forward-looking words such as "aim", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "could", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "guidance", "intend", "may", "plan", "potential", "predict", "projected", "should" or "will" or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. In addition, we and our representatives may from time to time make other oral or written statements which are forward-looking statements, including in our periodic reports that we file with, or furnish to, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), other information sent to our security holders and other written materials. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. We caution you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are based on numerous assumptions, expectations, projections, intentions and beliefs and that our actual results of operations, including our financial position and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which we operate may differ materially from (and be more negative than) those made in, or suggested by, the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement. Significant factors that may cause actual results to differ from those we expect include those discussed under "Risk Factors" in our annual report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC on March 29, 2022, our interim report on Form 6-K filed with the SEC on August 9, 2022 and other reports or documents that we file with, or furnish to, the US Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. In addition, even if our results of operations, including our financial position and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which we operate are consistent with the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement, those results of operations or developments may not be indicative of results of operations or developments in subsequent periods.

Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: Burford Capital Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711403/Burford-Capital-Reports-First-Half-2022-Results
Tech-Enabled Life Insurance Brokerage Exits Stealth with 15 Leading Carrier Partnerships, National Coverage, and Unprecedented Digital Journeys for Independent Advisors

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Modern Life , a tech-enabled life insurance brokerage for advisors, announced today that it has exited stealth with $15M in seed funding from marquee investors. Thrive Capital led the funding with participation from 12 unicorn founders from Hippo, Plaid, Reddit, Flatiron Health, Newfront, At Bay, Vouch, Cedar, and Lattice.

"In our conversations with advisors across the country, we heard emphatically how challenging it is to get their clients life insurance coverage. From in-person medical exams and 50+ page application forms to countless client and carrier touchpoints, advisors face an arduous, opaque, and lengthy process - often more than a quarter long," said Michael Konialian, Co-Founder and CEO of Modern Life. "We're bringing the best of technology, data, and design to streamline the process end-to-end while still supporting large and complex risks. We are proud to support leading advisors as they navigate a new and dynamic industry landscape that is changing more rapidly now than at any point in the last 150 years."

For advisors, the pandemic disrupted in-person meetings and medical exams, increased accelerated underwriting limits, and resulted in the highest rate of new business growth in decades as mortality fears increased.

To help advisors meet this unprecedented demand and changing landscape, Modern Life offers:

End-to-end digital journey and data connectivity from advice to purchase , including data-driven underwriting assessments, instant quoting, and digital applications

, including data-driven underwriting assessments, instant quoting, and digital applications Integrated dashboard allowing easy management and visibility of client submissions and back office administration for appointments and commissions

allowing easy management and visibility of client submissions and back office administration for appointments and commissions Partnerships with over 15 leading national carriers, including John Hancock, Lincoln, Pacific Life, AIG, and Prudential

Full suite of insurance products, including permanent life, term life, long-term care, and disability

including permanent life, term life, long-term care, and disability National coverage, licensed in all 50 states

Best in class brokerage expertise with a highly experienced team offering comprehensive case support, advanced sales strategies, medical underwriting, and client advocacy

Ryan Pripstein at Thrive Capital said, "We firmly believe in Modern Life's mission and its potential to significantly impact advisors nationwide along with their millions of clients. The life insurance industry is saddled with legacy technology. The result is that advisors, who are responsible for 90% of the industry's distribution, are left operating without the tools they need. With its unique focus on the advisor, seasoned executive team, and breakthrough technology, Modern Life is uniquely suited to help these professionals serve their clients faster, easier, and more confidently."

Assaf Wand, Co-Founder of Hippo and a Modern Life investor, adds, "I have deep conviction in the potential for technology to transform the massive life insurance market given how broken the customer experience is today. The Modern Life team has the customer obsession, experience, and industry knowledge to execute on a huge opportunity."

"Post-Covid, the need for growth and technological advancement throughout the life insurance industry is at an all time high," said Jared Levy, a life insurance advisor and Modern Life client. "Connecting with companies ahead of the technology curve is not always easy for advisors, but Modern Life does it best. The technology behind its quoting system and algorithmic underwriting allows advisors to streamline the diversification and buying process of contracts, leveling up life insurance capabilities and client satisfaction."

Modern Life co-founders Michael Konialian and Jack Arenas are seasoned fintech veterans. Modern Life CEO Konialian previously worked as VP and General Manager at CoverWallet (acquired by Aon), where he built and led the agent division, CoverWallet for Agents. Modern Life CTO Arenas was previously co-founder and CTO of the $900M-valued fintech Petal, where he remains an advisor.

About Modern Life

Modern Life is a tech-enabled life insurance brokerage. With a focus on empowering advisors, Modern Life offers advanced technology solutions to digitally streamline advisors' practices and expert brokerage support. With Modern Life, advisors nationwide can compare quotes from top carriers in minutes, perform data-driven underwriting assessments, manage clients from an integrated dashboard, and receive comprehensive deal support. For more information, please visit modernlife.com .

Media Contact:

Jacqueline Silva, pr@modernlife.com

SOURCE: Modern Life

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711266/Modern-Life-Launches-to-Public-with-15M-Funding-Led-by-Thrive-Capital-12-Unicorn-Founders-to-Empower-Life-Insurance-Advisors
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Altiplano Metals Inc. (TSXV: APN) (WKN: A2JNFG) ("Altiplano" or the "Company") is pleased to announce a new discovery at the Maria Luisa Project (the "Project"), located 100 km north of La Serena within the Atacama region in Incahuasi, Chile. Drill hole 22MLDDH012 intersected 10.50 metres (m) of 3.76 grams per tonne (g/t) gold (Au) and 3.83% copper (Cu), including 3.00 m of 2.30 g/t Au and 8.26% Cu, and 4.50 m of 6.03 g/t Au and 2.19% Cu; results are in Table 1. This drill hole was collared at the 867 m level of the current underground workings at Maria Luisa.

Program Highlights

Drill hole 22MLDDH012 is a new discovery north and west of historical underground workings. The area has never been historically drilled or mined, follow-up work is underway to delineate the scope and scale of this new discovery.

Rocks hosting high copper and high gold grades in 22MLDDH012 vary with depth (Table 1). 1.00 m of 0.88 g/t Au and 2.36% Cu is from copper and iron oxide that is spatially associated with a fault gouge zone. 10.50 m of 3.76 g/t Au and 3.83% Cu is associated with a silicified breccia zone characterized by blebby to massive copper sulphide (chalcopyrite) and disseminated pyrite. At depth, 0.50 m of chalcopyrite-bearing intrusive returned 6.46% Cu .

Assay results are pending for four drill holes that intersected intervals similar in appearance to the high-grade breccia zone of 22MLDDH012 (Figures 1 and 2).

that intersected intervals similar in appearance to the high-grade breccia zone of 22MLDDH012 (Figures 1 and 2). The Company has developed 410 metres of the NW-SE trending Maria Luisa Decline and is now approximately 23 metres from the projected initial target length. Cross cuts to the SW will intersect the vein system to support the proposed mining plan.

of the NW-SE trending Maria Luisa Decline and is now approximately 23 metres from the projected initial target length. Cross cuts to the SW will intersect the vein system to support the proposed mining plan. The decline advance also allows the Company to continue testing exploration targets from underground drilling (Figure 3).

Table 1: Drill results from hole 22MLDDH012

From (m) To (m) Interval* (m) Au (g/t) Cu (%) 22MLDDH012 32.55 33.55 1.00 0.88 2.36 and 40.05 50.55 10.50 3.76 3.83 incl. 40.05 43.05 3.00 2.30 8.26 and incl. 44.55 49.05 4.50 6.03 2.19 and 84.55 85.05 0.50 0.01 6.46



*Intervals are core length; true width is currently unknown





Alastair McIntyre, President and CEO, commented, "We are very encouraged with the discovery of this new zone and the corresponding high-grade gold and copper assay results. The recent work at Maria Luisa has focused on developing our underground decline system while establishing strategic underground drill locations. This provides the opportunity to drill new targets efficiently to support exploration and potential mine development with the added advantage of expanding our understanding of the multi-vein system at Maria Luisa."

The copper-sulphide-rich breccia intersected in 22MLDDH012 differs from the well-known near surface oxide veins that have been historically mined at the Maria Luisa Project. Intensely silicified fragments within this breccia also indicate fracturing of an existing hydrothermal system (Figure 2). While the Company is still delineating the extent of the sulphide zone, there is indication that oxide and sulphide mineralization are influenced by a larger fault system. The decline advance enables access to and exploration of deeper, historically mined levels (Figure 1); the full extent of the gold -copper mineralized material mined in level 841 is unknown to the Company to-date. Underground drilling from the decline is planned to test the vertical continuity of structures and mineralization between the historically mined levels 858 and 841, and lateral continuity between historical mining and the new discovery in 22MLDDH012.





Figure 1: Cross Section view of the decline progress (orange) at Maria Luisa, drill collar and traces, and mapped historically mined underground tunnels (red). The yellow star indicates the approximate depth of the core depicted in Figure 2.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4303/133182_0ccb614b54ba8947_001full.jpg

* The decision to commence underground exploration and development at the Maria Luisa site is not based on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability and there is increased uncertainty and economic and technical risks of failure associated with this decision.





Figure 2: Core photo of chalcopyrite-bearing breccia from drillhole 22MLDDH016 (assay pending).

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4303/133182_0ccb614b54ba8947_002full.jpg





Figure 3: Underground Drill Station located at the 867 m level

To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4303/133182_0ccb614b54ba8947_003full.jpg

Altiplano has generated over US$9.86 million from the recovery and sale (after processing costs) of 4.47 million pounds of copper with an average grade of 1.78% Cu (2018 Q1-2022 Q2). Cash flow has been re-invested into equipment, underground drilling, expanding underground development at Farellon, enhancing ventilation to increase productivity and capacity, new underground development and exploration at Maria Luisa, and the commissioning of the El Penon fit-for-purpose mill and flotation plant located 15 km from the Farellon site.

About Altiplano

Altiplano Metals is a growing gold, silver, and copper company focused on the Americas. The Company has a diversified portfolio of assets that include an operating copper/gold/iron mine, development near term producing gold/copper projects, and exploration land packages with district-scale potential. Altiplano is focused on creating long-term stakeholder value through developing safe and sustainable production, reinvesting into exploration, and pursuing acquisition opportunities to complement its existing portfolio. Management has a substantial record of success in capitalizing on opportunity, overcoming challenges and building shareholder value. Altiplano trades on the Toronto Venture Exchange trading under the symbol APN and the Frankfurt Exchange under the symbol A2JNFG.

John Williamson, B.Sc., P.Geol., a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, has reviewed, and approved the technical contents of this document.



Altiplano is part of the Metals Group of companies, managed by an award-winning team of professionals who stand for technical excellence, painstaking project selection and uncompromising corporate governance, with a proven ability to capitalize on investment opportunities and deliver shareholder returns.

www.metalsgroup.com

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

/s/ "John Williamson"

Chairman

For further information, please contact:

Alastair McIntyre, CEO

alastairm@apnmentals.com

Tel: (416) 434 3799

Jeremy Yaseniuk, Director

jeremyy@apnmetals.com

Tel: (604) 773-1467

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the (TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address exploration drilling, exploitation activities and events or developments that the Company expects are forward-looking statements. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify any historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves and the issuer is not treating the historical estimates as current mineral resources or mineral reserves. The is no current mineral resource at Maria Luisa and further exploration may or may not define a resource estimate (M. Dufresne, NI 43-101 Technical Report, February 10, 2017). In addition, a decision to commence underground exploration and development at the Maria Luisa site is not based on a feasibility study of mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability and there is increased uncertainty and economic and technical risks of failure associated with this decision. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continuity of mineralization, uncertainties related to the ability to obtain necessary permits, licenses and title and delays due to third party opposition, changes in government policies regarding mining and natural resource exploration and exploitation, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company's continuous disclosure filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133182
The Department of Homeland Security announced Monday that it was ending a Trump-era policy that required asylum claimants to wait in Mexico for hearings in US immigration court, just hours after a judge removed a December order that it be maintained.

Since the Supreme Court declared on June 30 that the Biden administration may stop the "Remain in Mexico" policy, the time has been uncertain.

Homeland Security To Provide More Details About End of Border Policy

Homeland Security officials had mainly remained silent, claiming they needed to wait for the court to confirm the verdict and for a Trump-appointed judge in Amarillo, Texas, Matthew Kacsmaryk, to withdraw his injunction. Last Thursday, the Supreme Court certified its decision.

Homeland Security stated in a statement that the program would be unraveled quickly and methodically. No more persons are being enrolled, and those who appear in court will not be sent to Mexico when their next hearings are held in the United States. The program has inherent problems, levies unacceptable human costs, and diverts money and manpower away from other critical border security initiatives, according to the government.

Many concerns remain, such as whether individuals whose cases were refused or dismissed would be given another opportunity or if those whose next court appearances are months away will be permitted to return to the United States sooner. Homeland Security stated that further material would be released in the coming days, according to The Independent.

Approximately 70,000 migrants were subject to the program, formally known as Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP), from its inception in January 2019 until President Joe Biden terminated it on his first day in office in January 2021, fulfilling a campaign pledge. During the early months of Biden's administration, many were permitted to return to the United States to prosecute their claims.

From December through June, over 5,800 persons were affected by the policy, which was a small amount. Nicaraguans make up the majority, with others coming from Cuba, Colombia, and Venezuela. Trump made the program the focal point of border enforcement, which opponents claimed was brutal since it exposed migrants to horrific violence in Mexico and made access to attorneys significantly more difficult, as per Fox43.

Read Also: FBI Executes Search Warrant at Trump's Mar-a-Lago Amid White House Records Investigation

Biden Denounces Migrant Protection Protocols Since 2020 Campaign

According to the Trump administration, MPP discouraged migrants seeking better economic prospects from invoking the asylum system to stay and work in the United States. However, on the 2020 campaign road, Biden criticized the policy as barbaric, and DHS ceased enrolling migrants in the program on his first day in office.

The MPP program was formally abolished in June 2021 by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, who said it was ineffectual and put asylum applicants in danger. However, Republican attorneys general from Texas and Missouri filed suit, and Kacsmaryk determined that the administration had terminated the procedures unfairly.

Former President Trump appointee Kacsmaryk compelled the Biden administration to apply the Remain in Mexico procedures in good faith until they were properly terminated and the government built up adequate holding facilities to imprison all migrants subject to the 1996 detention legislation.

In response, Mayorkas published a more detailed letter in October, attempting to eliminate the MPP policy for the second time. However, Kacsmaryk's decision was eventually affirmed by the 5th Circuit, which declined to take Mayorkas' second termination note into account.

Due to the legal challenges, the Biden administration was forced to relaunch Stay in Mexico in December. Although it reformed the program, officials were required to question migrants if they feared persecution in Mexico before transferring them there, providing enrollees with coronavirus vaccines, and exempting certain groups from the policy, including asylum-seekers with severe medical conditions, the elderly, and LGBT members.

Kacsmaryk's now-defunct judgment also compelled the Biden administration to discontinue a program that had previously enabled 13,000 asylum-seekers to remain in the country, CBS News reported.

Related Article: Joe Biden Sends Strong Message to "Working Families" After Senate Passes Massive Health Care, Tax, Climate Bill

@YouTube

@ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.


NEW BRUNSWICK (dpa-AFX) - HCA Healthcare, Inc. (HCA), Thursday announced a collaboration with Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) to improve health equity, enhance nursing support, and improve patient outcomes.



As per the agreement, Nashville-based HCA Healthcare and Johnson & Johnson will collaborate on a strategic partnership for a scalable program for the early identification of lung cancer in the Black community.



The two companies will work together on healthcare educational programming, training, and other programs that elevate and support nurses with experience and skillsets. HCA Healthcare has more than 93,000 nurses, 182 hospitals, and approximately 2,300 ambulatory sites of care in its system.



HCA Healthcare Research Institute and Johnson & Johnson will collaborate on cardiovascular health initiatives also. A retrospective analysis will be done on patients who suffer from heart arrhythmia, and also on the role of digital health technology in clinical outcomes for patients with Coronary Artery Disease, and Peripheral Artery Disease diseases.







Copyright(c) 2022 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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SURREY, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Gungnir Resources Inc. (TSXV:GUG)(OTC PINK:ASWRF) ("Gungnir" or the "Company") is pleased to report first 2022 assay results from continuing, systematic drilling of the Lappvattnet nickel deposit in northern Sweden. With the goal of upgrading and expanding the existing resource, drilling is now progressing to the sparsely drilled eastern two-thirds of the deposit which includes numerous high-grade nickel intersections. Please view accompanying map ( see Figure 1 ).

Highlights:

Results from initial six holes in the western part of Lappvattnet include wide zones of nickel mineralization up to 19 metres grading 0.80% Ni starting at 68 metres down-hole (LAP22-05)

Peak individual assays of 4.29%, 3.45% and 2.80% Ni

Results pending for four holes, three of which contain sections of massive sulphide

Drilling has commenced in the eastern part of the resource which is defined by only thirteen historic drill holes, six of which contain assays greater than 5% Ni

Significant potential to thicken the existing resource and expand it along strike and down-plunge to the east

Newly defined parallel "North Trend" offers additional up-side potential on the property

Results Table (2022 Drill Holes, West Part of Lappvattnet):

Hole_ID Az/Dip/Length From (m) To (m) Length (m) Ni % Cu % Co % PGEs (g/t) LAP22-01 335/-65/131.8 94.00 101.00 7.00 0.69 0.28 0.01 0.12 LAP22-02 335/-65/143.8 86.00 109.02 23.02 0.63 0.24 0.01 0.10 includes 93.62 94.11 0.49 2.80 0.12 0.05 0.12 and 100.88 101.08 0.20 4.29 0.05 0.07 0.16 and 102.34 102.67 0.33 1.51 1.47 0.03 0.43 LAP22-03 335/-65/152.6 79.60 83.00 3.40 0.64 0.31 0.01 0.22 86.00 93.00 7.00 0.50 0.16 0.01 0.05 LAP22-04 335/-70/150.3 91.00 93.87 2.87 0.68 0.10 0.01 0.15 includes 93.60 93.87 0.27 3.45 0.05 0.06 1.26 LAP22-05 335/-55/126.0 68.00 87.00 19.00 0.80 0.18 0.02 0.20 LAP22-07 335/-67/150.5 95.60 108.76 13.16 0.58 0.15 0.01 0.09 LAP22-06B 335/-55/151.9 Assays Pending LAP22-08 335/-45/125.0 Assays Pending LAP22-09 335/-50/126.0 Assays Pending LAP22-10 335/-67/150.0 Assays Pending Az = Azimuth in degrees, Dip = Dip in degrees, Length = Hole length in metres PGEs (g/t) = platinum (Pt) + palladium (Pd) + gold (Au), all in g/t

Holes LAP22-01 to -10 were all drilled in the western one-third of the Lappvattnet nickel deposit along sections 7.5E to 12E from seven sites; please refer to accompanying longitudinal "long" section along with drill hole co-ordinates (Figure 1; pages 1 and 2). Holes were drilled below and immediately east of Gungnir's 2021 drill holes. Eight of the ten holes encountered variably mineralized peridotite (core lengths of 0.3 to 16.5 metres) and two holes hit nickel-bearing sulphides in enclosing sedimentary gneisses. Of the pending results, massive and semi-massive sulphides (over core lengths greater than 0.5 metres, not including disseminated halo mineralization), were encountered in three holes, LAP22-06B, -09 and -10. A total of 25 holes have been now been drilled by Gungnir in 2021 and 2022 in the western one-third of Lappvattnet on 20-metre sections defining a continuous peridotite unit (a key host to nickel mineralization) across all sections drilled and a prominent structural plunge of 30 degrees to the east.

The eastern two-thirds of Lappvattnet shows considerable promise for expanding the current resource which is based on just thirteen drill intercepts, six of which contain individual assays of greater than 5% Ni (< 0.10 to 1.07 metres). Drilling is targeting potential structurally thickened high-grade nickel shoots within the sparsely drilled resource as well as the down-plunge projection of peridotite from the western part of the deposit which remains open below the 1970s underground exploration drift located at the 120-metre level. The peridotite has a potential down-plunge extent of greater than 600 metres. Drilling is underway in the central part of the Lappvattnet deposit on sections spaced 40-metres apart.

Nickel mineralization in Gungnir's 2021 and 2022 drill holes (20 holes with results received to date) compared with historic results in the western one-third of the resource (15 holes) shows Gungnir's core lengths averaged 14.4 metres grading 0.92% Ni (Ni grade x core length = 13.2) versus an average core length of 5.1 metres grading 1.33% Ni (Ni grade x core length = 6.8) in historic drilling. Nearly twice the nickel grade-core length product in Gungnir's holes suggests potential to thicken the current resource at least in the western one-third of the deposit. Comparable true widths are estimated to be approximately 70 to 90% of core lengths for both Gungnir and historic holes.

As previously reported, north of the Lappvattnet resource, the Company has outlined a new target, "North Trend" which is defined by a string of near-surface electromagnetic (EM) anomalies parallel to the Lappvattnet deposit. Recent drilling in the western part of the anomaly has encountered a new ultramafic unit (peridotite) similar to the peridotite in the main Lappvattnet deposit (see news release dated July 26, 2022).

The Company has submitted a work plan for continued drilling at Lappvattnet to the end of 2023 for up to 10,000 metres of drilling. Approval is pending. The current workplan is valid to August 31, 2022.

Drill core was logged and tagged for sampling at the Company's core logging facility in Lycksele then shipped to ALS Minerals' Core Services Laboratory in Mala. Core was sawed on site in Mala by ALS staff and prepped sample material was sent to ALS's Lab in Ireland. Core was analyzed for multi-elements using code ME-MS41, CuOG46 analysis for >10000 ppm Cu, NiOG46 analysis for >10000 ppm Ni, and Pt, Pd, and Au were analyzed using fire assay method PGM-ICP27. Blanks, certified standards and duplicates are routinely included in sample batches for quality assurance and control.

Nickel Resources:

Gungnir's nickel sulphide resources in Sweden include Lappvattnet and Rormyrberget. In 2020, the Company updated both resources which collectively total 177 million pounds of nickel. The properties are accessible year-round with good transportation and industrial infrastructure including shipping facilities and are located about an hour drive from Boliden's mill complex.

Lappvattnet: Inferred Resource of 780,000 tonnes grading 1.35% nickel for 23.1 million lbs (10.5 million kg) of nickel.

Rormyrberget: Inferred Resource of 36,800,000 tonnes grading 0.19% nickel for 154 million lbs (70 million kg) of nickel.

The NI 43-101 Technical Report entitled "TECHNICAL REPORT on the LAPPVATTNET and RORMYRBERGET DEPOSITS, NORTHERN SWEDEN" was prepared by Reddick Consulting Inc. Qualified Persons are John Reddick, M.Sc., P.Geo., and Thomas Lindholm, M.Sc., Fellow AusIMM. The Effective Date is November 17, 2020.

The technical information in this news release has been prepared, verified and approved by Jari Paakki, P.Geo., CEO, and a director of the Company. Mr. Paakki is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101.

About Gungnir Resources

Gungnir Resources Inc. is a Canadian-based TSX-V listed mineral exploration company (GUG: TSX-V, ASWRF: OTCPK) with gold and base metal projects in northern Sweden. Gungnir's assets include two nickel-copper-cobalt deposits, Lappvattnet and Rormyrberget, both with updated nickel resources, and the Knaften project which hosts a developing intrusion-hosted gold system, and VMS (zinc-copper) and copper-nickel targets, all of which are open for expansion and further discovery. The Company has also recently added the Hemberget property to its Swedish Property Portfolio which covers an 11 km long gabbro-ultramafic intrusion, a greenfield copper-nickel target. Further information about the Company and its properties may be found at www.gungnirresources.com or at www.sedar.com.

On behalf of the Board,

Jari Paakki, CEO and Director

For further information contact:

Head Office/Investor Relations

Phone: +1-604-683-0484

Jari Paakki, CEO

Email: jpaakki@eastlink.ca

Chris Robbins, CFO

Email: robbinscr@shaw.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements in this news release may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (also known as forward-looking statements). Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and may cause actual results, performance or achievements or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements or industry results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "feel", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "subject to", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Some of the specific forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: expectations of upgrading, thickening and expanding the existing resource; potential or projections related to peridotite; expectations of future resource upgrades and that new drilling and assays will be incorporated into any resource upgrade; expectations that new north target will yield comparable results to Lappvattnet; the expected timing for receipt of assay results; planned drilling locations and expected targets; extent of drilling and quantity of drilling holes; expectations of timely approvals for continued drilling; planned exploration program including anticipated drilling and the timing thereof; and Gungnir's plan for development of its properties and the timing thereof.

Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by Gungnir, including, without limitation: expectations of upgrading, thickening and expanding the existing resource are reasonable; access to the resources will remain available year-round; transportation and infrastructure will remain available as anticipated; the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the Canadian and global economy and Gungnir's business, and the extent and duration of such impact; no change to laws or regulations that negatively affect Gungnir's business; there will be a demand for Gungnir's services and products in the future; Gungnir will be able to operate its business as planned; Gungnir will be able to access capital markets on and successfully complete financings on terms it determines to be reasonable; and Gungnir's plans for future exploration and development of its properties is reasonable and will be possible within the anticipated timelines. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what Gungnir believes to be reasonable assumptions, it cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such information.

Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties and should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking information. Those risks and uncertainties include, among other things, risks related to: expectations related to upgrading, thickening and expanding existing resources may not be accurate in part or at all; no certainty that any economically viable mineral deposit will be located on Gungnir's properties; that Gungnir may not be able to complete its planned drilling as anticipated; the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; the impacts of war and/or other international conflicts; ability to access capital markets and complete successful financings on terms Gungnir determines to be reasonable; environmental matters; changes in legislation or regulations; receipt of required licenses, permits and approvals; and resource estimates may not be accurate and may differ significantly from actual mineral resources. Management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information contained herein are based upon reasonable assumptions and information currently available; however, management can give no assurance that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Gungnir. The forward-looking information is stated as of the date of this news release and Gungnir assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Gungnir Resources Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711341/Gungnir-Reports-Results-from-Continuing-Drilling-at-Lappvattnet-Nickel-Deposit-and-Highlights-Eastern-Potential
LISBON (dpa-AFX) - Portugal's foreign trade deficit widened in June, as imports grew more rapidly than exports, figures from Statistics Portugal showed on Tuesday. The trade deficit rose to EUR 2.522 billion in June from EUR 1.619 billion in the corresponding month last year. In May, the shortfall was EUR 2.377 billion. Exports were 37.1 percent higher in June compared to last year, slower than the 40.7 percent gain in May. The annual growth in imports also eased from 45.0 percent in May to 41.6 percent in June. During the second quarter, exports and imports grew by 31.2 percent and 37.7 percent, respectively, compared to the same period last year. Copyright(c) 2022 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Amid a year of exponential growth, including a Series D fundraise solidifying its $3B unicorn valuation, Aiven identified as a top private cloud company

Aiven, a software company that combines the best open source technologies with cloud infrastructure, has been named to the Forbes 2022 Cloud 100, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures. This achievement marks the first time Aiven has been recognized as part of the annual rankings and cements the company's position as a global leader in managed cloud data infrastructure.

"This recognition is an exciting achievement; one that validates the very idea of what we thought Aiven could become when we first started," said Oskari Saarenmaa, Aiven's CEO. "We designed our cloud data platform with the goal of helping fellow developers worry less and create more, and we are humbled and honored that this simple vision has allowed us to become one of the top private cloud companies in the world. We look forward to continuing this work to reach more developers around the globe."

For the seventh straight year, the Cloud 100 reviews submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies each year. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help ofa judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers.

With a mission to make developers' lives better, Aiven offers a platform that makes sophisticated open source technologies like Apache Kafka, PostgreSQL and OpenSearch accessible to all. By offloading mundane tasks of managing infrastructure, Aiven customers can focus on innovation and evolving the industry like Wolt, transforming deliveries from days to minutes with the help of cloud infrastructure and OVO Energy leveraging real-time analytics to drive consumption of renewable energy. Aiven serves a variety of industries, including retail, telecommunication, IT services, education, healthcare and more, with a diverse customer base in more than 50 countries.

"Great companies are born out of all environments, and it's exciting to see the continued momentum in the cloud sector," said Alex Kayyal, Managing Partner, Salesforce Ventures. "The companies on this list have gone through a rigorous selection process, and join an esteemed alumni list of Cloud 100 companies. As the need for digital transformation continues to drive innovation and efficiencies across industries, we can look to these companies as the absolute best in cloud computing."

For more information on Aiven, visit www.aiven.io.

ABOUT AIVEN

Headquartered in Helsinki and with hubs in Berlin, Boston, Paris, Singapore, Sydney and Toronto, Aiven provides managed open source data technologies, like PostgreSQL, Apache Kafka and OpenSearch, on all major clouds. Through Aiven, developers can do what they do best: create applications. Meanwhile, Aiven does what they do best: manage cloud data infrastructure. Aiven enables customers to drive business results from open source that trigger true transformations far beyond their own backyard. Most recently, Aiven achieved a $3B valuation and has now raised $420M total funding backed by its investors Atomico, Earlybird, Eurazeo, IVP, Lifeline, Salesforce Ventures, and World Innovation Lab. To learn more about Aiven, visit aiven.io and follow @aiven_io on Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005257/en/

Contacts:

Walker Sands

Megan Gasper

megan.gasper@walkersands.com

Aiven

Rachel Romoff

rachel.romoff@aiven.io
Demand for Medical devices in Thailand is expected to grow as there is an increase in the aging population and growing significance as a manufacturing hub.

is expected to grow as there is an increase in the aging population and growing significance as a manufacturing hub. High disease prevalence and demand for specific diagnosis is expected to drive the demand further with the introduction of technologically advanced equipment in the country.

The creation of a world-class healthcare sector is a top priority for the Thailand and the healthcare sector is expected to advance and expand significantly in the next few years which will support the growth of Medical Device Market in the country.

GURUGRAM, India, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Thailand's Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure: Thailand's growing healthcare infrastructure is boosting the Medical Device Market in Thailand. Along with it, the increase in import volume in the healthcare sector will boost the demand for Medical Devices in the country. Thailand's growing healthcare infrastructure has been attracting major players from around the world to meet the growing demand for Medical Devices. Apart from the European and American manufacturers many Chinese and Korean manufacturers are also targeting the high potential Thailand Medical Device Market.

High disease prevalence of ischemic heart disease in ThailandIschemic Heart Disease remains the largest cause of mortality in the country. To cope with the high volume of cases, human resource capacity in this area is generally higher than that of other medical specialties.

Import Dependent Market: Thailand Medical Devices Market is an import dependent market with 90% revenue generated in 2020 and devices imported from countries such as Germany, Japan and China. Local production limited to prototype units, spare parts and disposables such as surgical gloves, syringes, and needles. The lower share of domestic production is majorly due to lack of capabilities and fewer numbers of local manufacturing companies in the Thailand.

The report titled "Thailand Medical Device Outlook to 2026F - Driven by prevalence of chronic diseases in the country combined with the government's supportive policies and the BOI's incentives" provides a comprehensive analysis on the status of the medical device market in Thailand. The report covers various aspects including the current market scenario in Thailand, procurement and pricing trends, market potential of each medical device, major growth drivers, tech disruptions and innovations, and competition benchmarking. The report concludes with market projections for future of the industry including forecasted industry size by revenue and business activity.

Key Segments Covered:-

By Type of Business Activity

Import

Local Production

By Mode of Selling

Distributor Mediated

Direct Sales

By Type of Device

Medical Consumables

Diagnostic Imaging Products

Respiratory Products

Dental and Orthopedic Products

Cardiac Device

Hospital Furniture

Auxiliary Devices

Ophthalmic Devices

Dialysis Machine

Others

By Type of Medical Consumable

Indoor surgical Gloves and Masks

Syringes, Needles and Catheters

Intravenous Administration Set

Sutures and catgut

Infusion Pumps

Ostomy

Bandages, Dressings and Others

Request for Free Sample Report @ https://kenresearch.com/sample-report.php?Frmdetails=NTM2Mjk1

By Type of Diagnostic Imaging Product

CT Scan

X-ray Based Products

Ultrasound

MRI

Electro diagnostic apparatus (Functional Examination)

ECG

Others

By Type of Cardiac Device

Angioplasty Device

Cardiac Rhythm Management

ICD

Implants

Pacemakers

Heart-Lung Machines

Others

By Type of Respiratory Products

Oxygen Concentrator

Nebulizers

Humidifier

Ventilators

Airway Pressure devices

Others

By Type of Hospital Furniture

Hospital Beds with Mechanical Fittings and Dentists' Chairs

Operating Tables

Examination Tables

Medical, surgical, dental or veterinary furniture

Others

By Type of Auxiliary Product

Hearing Aids

Artificial body parts (excluding artificial teeth and joints)

Others

By Type of Dental and Orthopedic Products

Orthopedic Appliances

Artificial teeth and dental fittings

Dental appliances

Surgical Belts

Trusses

Crutches

Others

By Type of End-Users

Hospitals

Clinics

Labs and Others

Request for Free Sample Report @ https://kenresearch.com/sample-report.php?Frmdetails=NTM2Mjk1

Companies Covered:-

Manufacturing Companies

Nipro ( Thailand )

) Hoya Optics

Kawasumi Laboratories

Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare Manufacturing ( Thailand )

) Meditop

GE Medical Systems ( Thailand )

) Eyebiz Laboratory ( Thailand )

) Emerald Nonwovens Internationa

Infus Medical ( Thailand )

) M.E. Meditek

Distributor Companies

MindMedical

Unitech Healthcare Co. Ltd.

R.X. Company

Kha Bangkok

MedTech

Med Global

Bangkok Unitrade

MDE Thai

Pacific Healthcare MediTop

CMC Biotech

Techno Medical

Saintmed

Winnergy Medical

Xovic Co. Ltd.

Gateway Healthcare Co. Ltd.

Medical intensive care co. ltd

Thai hospital products co. ltd

iCare medical co ltd

DKSH (thailand) co. ltd

BJC Healthcare

Prime medical co. ltd

MP Med group

MDC (thailand)

Siam pharmaceutical

Key Topics Covered in the Report:-

Executive Summary

Overview of Thailand Healthcare System

Thailand Medical Device Market Introduction and Overview

Industry Life Cycle and Value Chain of Thailand Medical Device Market

Key Market Drivers in the Thailand Medical Device Market

Demand & Supply Side Ecosystem, Preferences & Trends across Thailand Medical Device Market

Thailand Medical Device Market Size by Revenue

Thailand Medical Device Market by Type of Devices and Sub Segments

Thailand Medical Device Market by End Users

Thailand Medical Device Market by Regions

Competitive Factors and Assessment in Thailand Medical Device Market

Medical Device Market Market Trends and Development

Market Issues and Challenges

Government Rules and Regulations

Thailand Medical Device Market Future Outlook

Upcoming Technologies in the Medical Device Market

Analyst Recommendations

Medical consumables Market Thailand

Diagnostic imaging product Market Thailand

Cardiac Medical Device Market Thailand

Respiratory Medical Device Market Thailand

Hospital Furniture Products Market Thailand

Auxiliary Products Market Thailand

Dental Products Market Thailand

Orthopedic Products Market Thailand

Ophthalmic Devices Market Thailand

Dialysis Machine Market Thailand

Hospitals Market Thailand

Bangkok Medical Devices Market Revenue

Thailand Medical Devices Market

Thailand Medical Devices Distributors

Major Thailand Medical Devices Companies

For More Information, refer to below links:-

Thailand Medical Devices Market

Related Reports:-

Philippines Medical Devices Outlook To 2025 (Second Edition)- Rising Cases Of Chronic Diseases And Expected Growth In Demand For Cancer Therapy And Dialysis Equipment

The Philippines Market Device Industry was valued at PHP ~ million in 2015 and registered a positive growth during the review period of 2015-2020 reaching to a value of PHP ~ in 2020. The market is currently in Growth Stage, with an increase in number of hospitals, high prevalence of chronic diseases, rising instances of heart and kidney failures, expanding elderly population, awareness towards health checkups, incoming of medical tourism and onset of COVID-19 pandemic as some of the key drivers for the market. Medical Device Industry in the Philippines is currently import oriented, especially for highly technological machineries such as Diagnostic Imaging, Cardiac Devices, Respiratory products and others. Current demand reflects healthcare requirements for growing incidence of hypertension, diabetes/kidney diseases, TB/respiratory ailments, cancer, and some incidence of HIV/AIDS.

Brazil Medical Device Market Outlook To 2025 - By Type Of Device (Reagent For In-Vitro Diagnostics, Materials And Supplies, Laboratory Equipment And Others), Type Of Business Activity (Import And Local Production), Channel Of Sales (Distributor And Direct), Type Of End User (Hospital, Clinics And Diagnostic Lab Centers And Others) And By Region (South-East, South, North-East, Mid-West And North)

Brazil medical device market grew at a single-digit growth rate over the review period 2013-2018. The market growth was supported by an increase in public healthcare expenditure, growth in healthcare infrastructure in the country and a rise in the elderly population. The market was observed to be in the growth stage and will continue to remain so in the coming years. The demand for low-cost devices and cheap cost per test along with a change in decision making authority from doctors to hospital administration has significantly affected the growth in the market and has changed the procurement landscape in the industry.

India Medical Device Market Outlook To 2023 - By IVD Market (Type Of Device, Sales Channel, Domestic Manufacturing And Import), By Diagnostic Imaging Market (Type Of Device, Domestic Manufacturing And Import) And By Patient Aid Market (Orthopedic Device, Hospital Furniture And Hearing Aid)

India Medical Device market grew at a double-digit growth rate over the review period FY'2013-FY'2018. The market growth was supported by increase in public healthcare expenditure, growth in healthcare infrastructure in the country by expansion in established hospitals and increase in number of hospitals and rise in elderly population. The market was observed in growth stage and will continue to remain so in the forecasted period, FY'2018-FY'2023. The demand for personalized patient care and chage in decision making authority from doctors to hospital administration has significantly affected the growth in the market.

KSA Medical Devices Market Outlook to 2026 -Driven by increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, growing healthcare awareness and rising healthcare budget in the country

KSA is the largest medical device market in the Middle East region, growing at single digit CAGR in 2016-2021. It is a highly price sensitive and import dependent market with advanced medical devices imported from countries such as US, Germany, Japan and China. About half of locally manufactured devices are single-use devices are made out of plastic. KSA's increasing budget allocation for the healthcare sector and ongoing healthcare development projects has played a pivotal role in the continued growth.

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JERSEY CITY, N.J., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. announces the release of market assessment report on "Global Peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market By Product (Lutetium Lu 177 dotatate, Melflufen, ANG1005, BT1718, CBX-12, and Other Pipeline Products) By Indication (Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma, Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs), Gastric Cancers, Acromegaly, Ophthalmology, and Other Cancer Indications. )- Technology Trends, Industry Competition Analysis, Revenue and Forecast Till 2030"

According to the latest research by InsightAce Analytic, the global peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) market is expected to record a promising CAGR of 13.7% during the period of 2022-2030. By region, North America dominates the global peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) market with the largest share.

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The peptide drug conjugates are targeted therapeutic drugs, targeting the tumor cell to release the cytotoxin. The swelling investments by key players to develop promising therapies are anticipated to fuel the market growth over the forecast period. The emergence of Peptide-Drug Conjugates (PDCs) therapy for patients suffering from different types of cancers is believed to create a number of clinical opportunities during the forecast period. PDC uses a peptide chain of about ten amino acids to target tumour cells, and its molecular weight is smaller than ADC, which can be rapidly enriched to tumour sites. At the same time, drug molecules in blood can be cleared quickly with a short half-life, helping to reduce toxic side effects caused by off-targeting.

Peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) are a novel targeted therapy that exhibits enhanced tumour penetrance and selectivity. Peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) are a promising field of study, as evidenced by the two PDCs now available on the market. In addition, PDCs with the proper design and focus is expected to affect the targeted therapeutic market by delivering safer medications. The increasing number of pharmaceutical drug innovations is expected to fuel the growth of peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) market in the near future. Also, in the coming days, there will be rapid approval of peptide drug conjugates in treating cancers due to the robust clinical pipeline of drugs. Despite these, the peptide drug conjugates have several limitations which hinder the growth of the PDCs market. Major driving factors of peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) market are the increasing need for therapeutic drugs, high prevalence of cancer diseases, rising number of clinical trials, and increasing investments by key players to develop promising therapies. Furthermore, advanced medical technologies, growth in the population, and a growing number of health-conscious people enhance the market growth.

However, the high-cost treatments, complex procedures, and lack of strict government laws limit the market growth. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted this market due to the lockdown situation. In addition, the pipeline product approval process may hamper the product market and production as a lot of clinical trials are going on today. On the other hand, FDA has approved very few pipeline products regarding peptide drug conjugates in the last five years, which will impact the market in the forecasting period.

At the regional level, North America, followed by the Europe region, is expected to hold the highest share of this market over the forecast period due to the high prevalence of cancer, fast adoption of advanced technologies, rising awareness about therapeutic drugs, and increasing government investments and funding in R&D of therapeutic medications. In addition, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to show significant market growth in the future owing to the advancement of modern technologies and the rising prevalence of cancer.

The key players involved in peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) industry are Novartis AG, AstraZeneca, Bicycle Therapeutics, Cybrexa Therapeutics, Esperance Pharmaceuticals, Oncopeptides AB, Pepgen Corporation, Soricimed Biopharma, Theratechnologies, Pfizer Inc, Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC, Antisense Therapeutics, Midatech Pharma PLC, Ipsen Pharma, Chiasma, Inc., Peptron, Inc., CRINETICS PHARMACEUTICALS, Dauntless Pharmaceuticals, Camurus AB, Teva Pharmaceuticals Inc., Pharmaspur, Aspire Pharmaceuticals, Ionis Pharmaceuticals Inc, Midatech Pharma Plc, and Other Prominent Players. This field's leading players use strategies like novel therapy innovations, partnerships, collaborations, mergers, and agreements.

Key developments in the market

In Dec 2021 , A strategic partnership agreement was signed between Coherent Biopharma and WuXi STA. In order to speed up the development of its current and future drug candidates (small molecules, peptides, oligonucleotides, complex chemical conjugates, etc.), from API to drug product, the company will offer Coherent Biopharma integrated CMC services.

A strategic partnership agreement was signed between Coherent Biopharma and WuXi STA. In order to speed up the development of its current and future drug candidates (small molecules, peptides, oligonucleotides, complex chemical conjugates, etc.), from API to drug product, the company will offer Coherent Biopharma integrated CMC services. In Oct 2021 , Oncopeptides AB announced the withdrawal of Pepaxto (INN melphalan flufenamide) from the US market. Oncopeptides will collaborate with the FDA to keep the drug available for patients who are currently receiving Pepaxto treatment.

Oncopeptides AB announced the withdrawal of Pepaxto (INN melphalan flufenamide) from the US market. Oncopeptides will collaborate with the FDA to keep the drug available for patients who are currently receiving Pepaxto treatment. In July 2020 , AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo formed a new $6 billion global ADC alliance to co-develop and commercialise DS-1062, a TROP2 directed DXd antibody-drug conjugate in Phase I for non-small cell lung cancer and breast cancer. The businesses will share development and commercialization costs as well as profits from DS-1062 worldwide, except for Japan .

AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo formed a new global ADC alliance to co-develop and commercialise DS-1062, a TROP2 directed DXd antibody-drug conjugate in Phase I for non-small cell lung cancer and breast cancer. The businesses will share development and commercialization costs as well as profits from DS-1062 worldwide, except for . In June 2019 , Novartis AG and PeptiDream Inc. signed a new Peptide Drug Conjugate "PDC" collaboration agreement to initiate macrocyclic peptide discovery, which will be used to address therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

Curious about Details @ https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/report/global-peptidedrug-conjugates-pdcs-market/1351

Market Segments

Global peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market, by Product, 2022-2030 (Value US$ Mn)

Lutetium Lu 177 dotatate

Melflufen

ANG1005

BT1718

CBX-12

Other Pipeline Products

Global peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market, by Indication, 2022-2030 (Value US$ Mn)

Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma

Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)

Gastric Cancers

Acromegaly

Ophthalmology

Other Cancer Indication

Global peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market, by Region, 2022-2030 (Value US$ Mn)

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa

North America Peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market, by Country, 2022-2030 (Value US$ Mn)

U.S.

Canada

Europe Peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market, by Country, 2022-2030 (Value US$ Mn)

Germany

France

Italy

Spain

Russia

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific Peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market, by Country, 2022-2030 (Value US$ Mn)

India

China

Japan

South Korea

Australia & New Zealand

Latin America Peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market, by Country, 2022-2030 (Value US$ Mn)

Brazil

Mexico

Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa Peptide-drug Conjugates (PDCs) Market, by Country, 2022-2030 (Value US$ Mn)

GCC Countries

South Africa

Rest of Middle East & Africa

For More Customization @ https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/customisation/1351

Why should buy this report:

To receive a comprehensive analysis of the prospects for global peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) products

To receive industry overview and future clinical trial/pipeline trends of global peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) market

To analyse the peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) market drivers and challenges

To get information on peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) market size value (US$ Mn) forecast till 2030

To get information on major Investments, Mergers & Acquisition in global peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) market industry

Other Related Reports Published by InsightAce Analytic:

Global Polymer Drug Conjugates Market

Global Neoantigen Peptides Manufacturing Market

Global Antibody Drug Conjugates (Adcs) - Linker And Conjugation Technologies Market

Global Peptide CDMO (Pharmaceutical) Market

About Us:

InsightAce Analytic is a market research and consulting firm that enables clients to make strategic decisions. Our qualitative and quantitative market intelligence solutions inform the need for market and competitive intelligence to expand businesses. We help clients gain competitive advantage by identifying untapped markets, exploring new and competing technologies, segmenting potential markets and repositioning products. Our expertise is in providing syndicated and custom market intelligence reports with an in-depth analysis with key market insights in a timely and cost-effective manner.

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Partners Group / Key word(s): Acquisition/Investment

Partners Group to acquire Foundation Risk Partners, a specialist insurance broker in the US, from Warburg Pincus



09.08.2022 / 16:00 CET/CEST





New York, US; 9 August 2022

FRP has a footprint of 139 offices across 18 states

Insurance distribution is a large, fragmented market that has proved highly resilient

FRP has seen strong growth under Warburg Pincus' ownership; Partners Group's future value creation plan will focus on expanding into new geographies

Partners Group, a leading global private markets firm, has, on behalf of its clients, agreed to acquire a controlling stake in Foundation Risk Partners ("FRP" or "the Company"), a specialist insurance broker in the US, from Warburg Pincus. FRP's management will maintain a substantial stake in the business while Warburg Pincus will retain a meaningful minority position.

Headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida, FRP assists businesses and private individuals in navigating the complex US insurance landscape. The Company's areas of expertise include commercial insurance, employee benefits, personal insurance, and risk management services. FRP helps clients, which include small to mid-sized businesses and high net worth individuals, evaluate risks, secure appropriate coverage, ensure competitive pricing, and manage claims. It has a footprint of 139 offices across 18 states, with a primary focus in Florida, New Jersey, New York, and California. The Company generates revenues from fees on the initial placement and the recurring annual renewal of insurance policies, leading to highly predictable cash flows. Insurance brokerage is a large market that has proven highly resilient through economic cycles as insurance coverage is a non-discretionary expense. The market further benefits from several transformative trends including the emergence of new risks, such as cyber and social media exposure; the increase in the cost and frequency of litigation; and an evolving regulatory environment that emphasizes the need for insurance advice and coverage.

Partners Group will work with management to drive further growth at FRP and expand its presence across the US. Key value creation initiatives will include refining the acquisition strategy and expanding M&A, introducing the product suite in new geographies, investing in technology, and further leveraging the operating model.

Joel Schwartz, Partner, Co-Head Private Equity Services, Partners Group, says: "FRP provides us with access to the growing insurance brokerage market in the US, which benefits from stable non-discretionary demand and favorable tailwinds. We have been tracking this market for several years and were attracted to FRP's diversified service offering and client base, as well as the transformational platform-building opportunity it represents. We look forward to working with FRP's very experienced management team on implementing the value creation plan."

Charlie Lydecker, Chief Executive Officer, Foundation Risk Partners, comments: "At FRP, we pride ourselves on our industry experience, client commitment, and market leading innovation. Since 2017, we have grown significantly, deepened our expertise across all product lines, and enhanced our client offering. As we look to grow and break into new markets, we believe Partners Group's track record of building leading platforms, as well as its deep resources, will be highly valuable to the next phase of our growth."

Jeff Stein, Managing Director, Warburg Pincus, adds: "Since its launch over five years ago, we have seen FRP experience a transformative period of organic and acquisitive growth, while building out robust capabilities in technology integration. We are proud of our partnership with Charlie and the Foundation Risk Partners team to-date and believe the Company is well-positioned for continued success as a leading insurance agency. We are excited to work with Partners Group moving forward as the Company enters this next phase of growth."

Partners Group was advised by Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC as its financial advisor and Ropes & Gray LLP as legal counsel. Warburg Pincus and Foundation Risk Partners were advised by Barclays, MarshBerry, Kirkland & Ellis LLP, Jamieson Corporate Finance, and Peter W. Klein, Attorney at Law.

About Partners Group

Partners Group is a leading global private markets firm. Since 1996, the firm has invested USD 185 billion in private equity, private real estate, private debt, and private infrastructure on behalf of its clients globally. Partners Group seeks to generate strong returns through capitalizing on thematic growth trends and transforming attractive businesses and assets into market leaders. The firm is a committed, responsible investor and aims to create sustainable returns with lasting, positive impact for all its stakeholders. With USD 131 billion in assets under management as of 30 June 2022, Partners Group provides an innovative range of bespoke client solutions to institutional investors, sovereign wealth funds, family offices and private individuals globally. The firm employs more than 1,600 diverse professionals across 20 offices worldwide and has regional headquarters in Baar-Zug, Switzerland; Denver, USA; and Singapore. It has been listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since 2006 (symbol: PGHN). For more information, please visit www.partnersgroup.com or follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter.

About Warburg Pincus

Warburg Pincus LLC is a leading global growth investor. The firm has more than $85 billion in assets under management. The firm's active portfolio of more than 250 companies is highly diversified by stage, sector, and geography. Warburg Pincus is an active investor across the full spectrum of the financial services landscape, including insurance, banking, asset management, specialty finance, payments, and transaction processing. Notable investments in insurance include, Aeolus Re, Arch Capital, Fortegra, McGill & Partners, Fetch by the Dodo, RenaissanceRe, SCM Insurance, and Somers Re. Founded in 1966, Warburg Pincus has raised 21 private equity and 2 real estate funds, which have invested more than $106 billion in over 1,000 companies in more than 40 countries. The firm is headquartered in New York with offices in Amsterdam, Beijing, Berlin, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Luxembourg, Mumbai, Mauritius, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Shanghai, and Singapore. For more information, please visit www.warburgpincus.com. Follow us on LinkedIn.

Partners Group US media relations contact

Prosek Partners

Email: Pro-PartnersGroup@prosek.com

Warburg Pincus media relations contact

Kerrie Cohen

Email: Kerrie.Cohen@warburgpincus.com

End of Media Release


Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Kuya Silver Corporation (CSE: KUYA) (OTCQB: KUYAF) (FSE: 6MR1) (the "Company" or "Kuya Silver") is pleased to announce that it has completed its previously announced "best efforts" private placement of units of the Company ("Units") at a price of $0.45 per Unit (the "Private Placement"), which was led by Canaccord Genuity Corp. and Research Capital Corporation (the "Co-Lead Agents") and including Red Cloud Securities Inc. (collectively, the "Agents"). The Company sold an aggregate of 5,718,000 Units, which includes the full exercise of the Agents' option to purchase up to an additional 15% of the Units of the Private Placement, for aggregate gross proceeds of $2,573,100. Concurrently with the Private Placement, the Company sold an aggregate of 1,320,000 Units on a non-brokered private placement basis on the same terms as the Private Placement, for additional gross proceeds of $594,000 (the "NBPP"). The Company intends to use the proceeds from the issuance of the Units for general working capital purposes.

Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (a "Common Share") and one transferable Common Share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.70 for a period of five years following the closing of the Private Placement.

As consideration for the services provided by the Agents, the Company paid the Agents cash fees totalling $190,026, being 6.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds from the sale of the Units, and issued to the Agents 422,280 non-transferrable broker warrants (each, a "Broker Warrant"), being equal to 6.0% of the number of Units sold pursuant to the Private Placement and the NBPP. Each Broker Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.45 for a period of two years following the date hereof.

The Private Placement and the NBPP were conducted in all provinces of Canada pursuant to private placement exemptions, in the United States to "qualified institutional buyers" and "accredited investors" pursuant to exemptions from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and in such other jurisdictions as are agreed to by the Company and the Agents in accordance with applicable law. The securities issued in connection with the Private Placement and the NBPP are subject to a hold period of four months from closing in accordance with applicable securities laws.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of the securities, in the United States or in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. The securities have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and such securities may not be offered or sold within the United States absent registration under U.S. federal and state securities laws or an applicable exemption from such U.S. registration requirements.

About Kuya Silver Corporation

Kuya Silver is a Canadian-based mineral exploration and development company with a focus on acquiring, exploring, and advancing precious metals assets in Peru and Canada.

For more information, please contact:

David Stein, President and Chief Executive Officer

Telephone: (604) 398-4493

info@kuyasilver.com

www.kuyasilver.com

Reader Advisory

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information," including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities of the Company. The words "may," "would," "could," "will," "intend," "plan," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "must," "next," "propose," and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking information. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing statements, the proposed use of the proceeds of the sale of Units is forward-looking information. Investors are cautioned that statements including forward-looking information are not guarantees of future business activities and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking information as a result of various factors, including but not limited to fluctuations in market prices, successes of the operations of the Company, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market, and business conditions. There can be no assurances that such forward-looking information will prove accurate, and therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of the risks and uncertainties. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking information except as required under the applicable securities laws.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES. ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAWS.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133257
ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A series of measures have been agreed during a visit by the Chinese Foreign Minister to Mongolia that will act to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

During his visit, which began on Sunday and concluded yesterday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene and Parliament Speaker G. Zandanshatar, among others.

Agreements were concluded on the following:

Accelerating the delivery of the Erdeneburen hydropower plant project

Intensifying the construction of the Gashuunsukhait - Gantsmod railroad, which connects critical border points between the two countries

Stabilising the frequency of daily train services coming to Mongolia from China's sea ports

from sea ports Increasing the number of train exchanges and overall border capacity at the Zamyn Uud-Erlian border point and overall border capacity

During the talks, the goal was set of doubling bilateral trade turnover to USD 10 billion. Discussions also addressed the possibility of agreeing freer travel between Mongolia and China, with a particular focus on this aiding the humanitarian sector and Mongolian citizens who study in China, who are stuck outside of the country due to the pandemic-related border shutdown. The connection of the Khangi-Mandal port by railroad was also discussed during the visit.

Following a press conference with the Chinese Foreign Minister held on Monday, Mongolian Foreign Affairs Minister B. Battsetseg said:

"The agreements reached during this visit will strengthen the strategic relationship that already exists between our two countries, deepening our co-operation across a range of important sectors.

"New support for enhancing capacity at our ports and increasing Mongolian domestic energy production will provide further support to Mongolia's economic development as our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic continues, in line with the objectives set by the New Recovery Policy."

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NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As per Zion Market Research study, The global skin care products market size was worth around USD 914.1 million in 2021 and is estimated to grow to about USD 1,719.1 million by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 11.1 percent over the forecast period.

Skin Care Products Market: Overview

Skin care products refer to products that relieve skin conditions and improve skin integrity, thereby enhancing the appearance. Different skin care products are available in the market, including masks, creams, serums, and lotions. These products are produced using medicinal herbs, natural ingredients, and chemical compounds. Rising awareness regarding the benefits of skincare and self-care among consumers has increased the adoption of organic skin care products. An increase in purchasing power of end consumers and the rise in the young population are the major factors that will drive the growth of the global skin care products market.

Moreover, the increase in smartphone and internet penetration has positively impacted the sales of skin care products by offering multiple benefits to consumers, such as easy price comparisons, heavy discounts, doorstep delivery, and availability of more variety. These factors collectively have increased the demand for skin care products among consumers.

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Key Industry Insights & Findings of the Skin Care Products Market Reports:

As per the analysis shared by our research analyst, the Skin Care Products Market is expected to grow annually at a CAGR of around 11.1 % (2022-2028).

(2022-2028). Through the primary research, it was established that the Skin Care Products Market was valued at approximately USD 914.1 million in 2021 and is projected to reach roughly USD 1719.1 million by 2028.

million in 2021 and is projected to reach roughly million by 2028. Skin care products have experienced significant adoption among these consumers, as Gen Z is most easily influenced by online advertising.

An increase in preference toward advanced beauty treatments such as laser skin rejuvenation, laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion, Thermae, and acne blue light therapy will threaten the growth of skin care products market.

South Korea holds the largest share of skin care product exports, with a major market share in the global market.

holds the largest share of skin care product exports, with a major market share in the global market. Around 90% of the cosmetics products are imported from foreign brands in the Asia Pacific , such as Shiseido, Fendi, Estee Lauder, Lancome, L'Oreal, and Clarins.

Zion Market Research published the latest report titled "Global Skin Care Products Market By Product Type (Cream, Lotions, Others), By Demographic (Male, Female), By Age Group (Generation X, Millennial, Generation Z), By Sales Channel (Supermarket/Hypermarket, Specialty Stores, Department Stores, Beauty Stores, Pharma and Drug Stores, Online Sales Channel), and By Region - Industry Overview, Market Intelligence, Comprehensive Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecasts 2022 - 2028." into their research database.

Industry Dynamics:

Skin Care Products Market: Growth Drivers

Rise in young population to drive market growth.

The rise in the young population is the major factor that will drive the global skin care products market growth. Gen Z accounts for a major share of 39.1% of the total population. These consumers prefer brands that reflect their attitudes and values. Skin care products have experienced significant adoption among these consumers, as Gen Z is most easily influenced by online advertising.

Skin Care Products Market: Restraints

The presence of advanced beauty treatments hinders the market growth.

An increase in preference toward advanced beauty treatments such as laser skin rejuvenation, laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion, Thermae, and acne blue light therapy will threaten the growth of skin care products market.

Directly Purchase a Copy of the Report @ https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/buynow/su/global-skin-care-products-market

Global Skin Care Products Market: Opportunities

The development of organic skin care products presents market opportunities.

Consumers prefer organic skin care products as they do not contain any side effects and only natural ingredients. At the same time, synthetic products might contain certain chemicals which are not good for the skin. Many key players also focus on developing organic skin care products to gain a competitive advantage.

Global Skin Care Products Market: Challenges

The rise in counterfeit products hinders the market growth.

Many regional players are developing counterfeit skin care products that are cost-effective and challenge original skin care products and manufacturers in the market.

Global Skin Care Products Market: Segmentation

The global skin care products market is segregated based on product type, demographic, age group, sales channel, and region.

The market is divided into cream, lotions, and others based on product type. Among these, the cream segment dominated the market in 2021, accounting for a major share of total sales. Due to their frequent application, creams are among the most popular products. In addition to providing fast hydration, reducing breakouts, and refreshing the skin, they are a simple, hassle-free, and quick way to treat dry skin. Additionally, as more customers choose cruelty-free skincare products because of their heightened concern for animal welfare and the environment, the demand for vegan or skincare products that combine plant-based components has grown.

Based on demographic, the market is classified into male and female. Over the forecast period, the female segment is expected to dominate the market. Women are increasingly incorporating personal grooming items into their daily routines to boost their self-confidence and looks, significantly boosting the segment's growth. Furthermore, in recent years, women have been inspired by the significance of self-care to intentionally design calming self-care experiences through elaborate skincare routines at home.

Based on age group, the market is classified into generation X, millennials, and generation Z. The millennial segment dominated the market in 2021, accounting for a major share of the revenue. Millennials constitute a major portion of the global population, and consumption of skin care products is also high among millennials.

Based on sales channels, the market is segmented as supermarket/hypermarket, specialty stores, department stores, beauty stores, pharma and drug stores, and online sales channels. The supermarket/hypermarket segment held a major share of around 29% in the global skin care products market based on the sales channel in 2021. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are ideal venues for all types of customers since they provide important benefits to customers like choice, reduced pricing, and high visibility of worldwide brands. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are great places to buy skincare items for all sorts of clients since they provide important benefits to customers like freedom of choice, lower pricing, and high visibility of international brands.

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List of Key Players in Skin Care Products Market:

L'Oreal Group

Procter & Gamble Company

Unilever PLC

Bejesdorf AG

Estee Lauder Companies Inc

Shiseido Company Limited

Saigon Cosmetics Corporation

Marico.

Key questions answered in this report:

What are the growth rate forecast and market size for Skin Care Products Market?

What are the key driving factors propelling the Skin Care Products Market forward?

What are the most important companies in the Skin Care Products Market Industry?

What segments does the Skin Care Products Market cover?

How can I receive a free copy of the Skin Care Products Market sample report and company profiles?

Report Scope:

Report Attribute Details Market size value in 2021 USD 914.1 Million Revenue forecast in 2028 USD 1719.1 Million Growth Rate CAGR of almost 11.1 % 2022-2028 Base Year 2020 Historic Years 2016 - 2021 Forecast Years 2022 - 2028 Segments Covered By Product Type, By Application, And By End Use Forecast Units Value (USD Billion), and Volume (Units) Quantitative Units Revenue in USD million/billion and CAGR from 2022 to 2028 Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa, and Rest of World Countries Covered U.S., Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Argentina, GCC Countries, and South Africa, among others Companies Covered L'Oreal Group, Procter & Gamble Company, Unilever PLC, Bejesdorf AG, Estee Lauder Companies Inc, and Shiseido Company Limited, Saigon Cosmetics Corporation, and Marico. Report Coverage Market growth drivers, restraints, opportunities, Porter's five forces analysis, PEST analysis, value chain analysis, regulatory landscape, market attractiveness analysis by segments and region, company market share analysis, and COVID-19 impact analysis. Customization Scope Avail of customized purchase options to meet your exact research needs. https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/custom/7036

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Recent Developments

July 2022 : Caudalie, a French beauty product brand, announced an investment in the Asia Pacific region to expand its market in the Asia Pacific .

: Caudalie, a French beauty product brand, announced an investment in the region to expand its market in the . July 2022 : Azelis and Green Mountain Biotech signed a distribution agreement to strengthen their presence in Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam , Thailand , and Singapore .

Regional Dominance:

The Asia Pacific dominated the global skin care products market in 2021.

The Asia Pacific is the leading market in 2021 and accounts for a major share of global sales. South Korea holds the largest share of skin care product exports, with a major market share in the global market. Korean brands are consistently expanding in terms of the number of consumers, predominantly in the skin care products segments. Around 90% of the cosmetics products are imported from foreign brands in the Asia Pacific, such as Shiseido, Fendi, Estee Lauder, Lancome, L'Oreal, and Clarins. Moreover, local cosmetics brands such as Lana, Thorakao, Biona, and Sao Thai Duonga are focusing on strengthening their position in the market.

Global Skin Care Products Market is segmented as follows:

Skin Care Products Market: By Product Type Outlook (2022-2028)

Cream

Lotions

Skin Care Products Market: By Demographic Outlook (2022-2028)

Male

Female

Skin Care Products Market: By Age Group Outlook (2022-2028)

Generation X

Millennial

Generation Z

Skin Care Products Market: By Sales Channel Outlook (2022-2028)

Supermarket/Hypermarket

Specialty Stores

Department Stores

Beauty Stores

Pharma and Drug Stores

Online Sales Channel

Skin Care Products Market: By Region Outlook (2022-2028)

North America

The U.S.

Canada

Europe

France

The UK

Spain

Germany

Italy

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

Japan

India

South Korea

Southeast Asia

Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil

Mexico

Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

GCC

South Africa

Rest of Middle East & Africa

Press Release For Skin Care Products Market: https://www.zionmarketresearch.com/news/global-skin-care-products-market

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Experts: Countermeasures justified

By YANG ZEKUN (China Daily) 09:13, August 09, 2022

A warplane of the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) takes off during joint combat training exercises around the Taiwan Island, Aug 7, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]

Pelosi's trip 'undermined basis of China-US cooperation' in law enforcement, judiciary

China's countermeasures against the United States in the law enforcement and judiciary sectors are justified, and the US should take full responsibility for damaging the foundation of bilateral cooperation in these sectors, experts and analysts said.

The Foreign Ministry announced eight countermeasures on Friday in response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, which was made despite China's strong opposition and serious representations over the trip.

The countermeasures include the suspension of bilateral cooperation on the repatriation of illegal immigrants and legal assistance in criminal matters and cooperation against transnational crimes and in the area of counternarcotics.

Huang Jin, deputy head of the China Law Society, said cooperation in those areas was established based on bilateral memorandums and does not involve international treaties and agreements.

"The establishment of the cooperation needed plenty of time and efforts from both sides in negotiation. Since the two sides have the will to cooperate, then both sides need to show their sincerity," Huang said. "Pelosi's visit to Taiwan undermined the basis of China-US cooperation in these areas, making it hard to carry on. It's justified to suspend cooperation on the basis of safeguarding China's national sovereignty."

He said that China's decision to suspend cooperation was made after weighing the matter carefully. Problems in drug trafficking, immigration, transnational crime and the judicial field are where the US needs more support from China.

"The US has always chosen to cooperate with us only in the areas they want to cooperate with. Now, we can take the initiative to suspend cooperation in the matters they want to cooperate with," he said.

At the same time, these measures serve as a warning to other countries that want to maintain ties with China while following the US in inappropriate moves, he added.

The countermeasures are a justified reaction taken by the Chinese government against the gross interference by the US in China's Taiwan affairs. The US caused serious damage to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the measures implement a holistic approach to national security and firmly safeguard national security and core interests, said Chen Xiangyang, director of the Office of the Research Center for Overall National Security Outlook.

The countermeasures showed that China-US relations are deteriorating, and the blame lies entirely with the US side.

The behavior of the US includes Pelosi's visit to Taiwan and her association with "Taiwan independence" forces, the US government's repeated shirking of its responsibilities for Pelosi's visit and even making accusations against China's countermeasures and threatening China's core interests, said Chen.

Given the inactive attitude of the US, two-way cooperation is limited in these sectors, so the impact of the suspended cooperation is limited on the Chinese side, he said.

Taking the anti-narcotic moves as an example, the suspension of China-US anti-drug cooperation could affect the fight against transnational drug crimes. It has a greater impact on the US, as its drug abuse problems are far more serious, he added.

China put the whole category of fentanyl substances under control in May 2019 as a measure to fight against drug crimes.

Instead, the US included the Institute of Forensic Science of China's Ministry of Public Security and the National Narcotics Laboratory, which are both important institutions responsible for the detection and control of fentanyl substances, to its "entity list" for sanctions in May 2020.

Resuming cooperation will depend on how the US behaves on issues concerning China's core interests such as the Taiwan question, and whether the US respects China's national dignity and interests, Chen said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
By Gideon Levy

August 08, 2022: Information Clearing House -- " Haaretz " Thus wrote Labor Party chair Merav Michaeli, a few minutes after Israel once again launched a criminal assault on the Gaza Strip, a moment before the killing of the first Palestinian toddler, who wont be the last: The residents of Israel deserve to live in safety. No sovereign state would agree to a terror organization besieging its residents. ... I support the security forces.

Benjamin Netanyahu hadnt yet reacted, Itamar Ben-Gvir hadnt woken up, Yoav Gallant didnt yet threaten the head of the snake, and already the leader of the Zionist left falls in line with the right, salutes the military and supports a war that hadnt even begun. This time she even got there before Shimon Peres.

Michaeli cannot be forgiven for her unbelievable lack of awareness: After four days of a voluntary partial lockdown in the south, the leader of the left says that no state would agree to a siege. Without blinking, no state. A member of the government that is responsible for a horrific 16-year siege dares to be shocked by a 2-minute voluntary, partial lockdown. Instead of supporting the governments momentary restraint, which lasted the eternity of the life of a butterfly (times a-wasting, the elections is nigh), the Labor Party once again supports a foolish war of choice, as did all its predecessors. The Zionist left once again gives the concept of a double standard a bad name. Perhaps at least now the penny will drop for more supporters of the center-left: Theres no real difference between it and the right. Israel can no longer even pretend that it didnt start this war  whose infantile name, Operation Breaking Dawn, was given to it at birth  or that it had no choice. This time they even forewent the advance saber-rattling and got straight to the point: the arrest of an Islamic Jihad leader in the West Bank, which they knew ahead of time would provoke a severe response, and the assassination of a senior commander in the Gaza Strip, after which they knew there was no way back, and Israel is already waging a defensive war, a just war of a state to which everything is permitted. The peace-loving country that only wants security for its inhabitants  such an innocent. The state that has everything except deterrence: There is nothing or no one to deter Israel from attacking Gaza.



But this time, the government is one of change and healing. Fifteen months after the last delight, Operation Guardian of the Walls, dawn has broken. Five weeks after the fastest gun in the West took office, Prime Minister Yair Lapid is already sending the army to war. Never in Israels history was a prime minister in such a hurry to kill. All the Netanyahu cases pale in the face of the crime of launching a needless war that will contribute nothing but more bloodshed, most of it Palestinian. And all of Netanyahus failings pale in the face of his relative restraint in using military force while in office. Keep on getting riled up about the cigars  at least Netanyahu doesnt have to prove his macho credentials, as Lapid does.



Its true that the analysts, the old boys club and the mayors in the south pressed for this war, as they always do, but never was there such a rapid capitulation to the caprices to launch a war; Israel was hardly given a minute for passionate excoriations on the air. Now, when only a few months separate one attack in Gaza from another, theres no point in even asking what the goals are. There are no goals, except the desire to prove that ours is bigger. If there were goals, and if quiet were one of them, and if this were a government of change, then Lapid would have taught Israel a lesson in restraint; and if Lapid were also a courageous statesman he would have led to change by recognizing Hamas, lifting the siege and making an effort to meet with the Gaza leadership. Anything less than this is a direct continuation of the policies of all of Israels governments, in whose DNA baseless wars run deep. Thats why there is no need for a government of change. Just be sure to remember who started this war, and who supported it.






Read the full story on cnhindustrial.com

London, August 9, 2022

The Chesapeake Bay watershed - a vast area on the US's Eastern Seaboard - is not only home to a variety of trees, shrubs, and wildlife, but is also the birthplace of New Holland Agriculture, a global agricultural brand of CNH Industrial.

Since it was founded in 1895, New Holland has maintained a campus in this area, and its employees are working with the local community to protect and improve the health of this unique and ecologically important expanse of waterway. Visit https://bit.ly/BreakingNewGround-RootCauseto read about the work of the New Holland Campus Sustainability Team, a group of employee volunteers, who are actively preserving this fragile ecosystem.

CNH Industrial (NYSE: CNHI / MI: CNHI) is a world-class equipment and services company. Driven by its purpose of Breaking New Ground, which centers on Innovation, Sustainability and Productivity, the Company provides the strategic direction, R&D capabilities, and investments that enable the success of its global and regional Brands. Globally, Case IH and New Holland Agriculture supply 360 agriculture applications from machines to implements and the digital technologies that enhance them; and CASE and New Holland Construction Equipment deliver a full lineup of construction products that make the industry more productive. The Company's regionally focused Brands include: STEYR, for agricultural tractors; Raven, a leader in digital agriculture, precision technology and the development of autonomous systems; Flexi-Coil, specializing in tillage and seeding systems; Miller, manufacturing application equipment; Kongskilde, providing tillage, seeding and hay & forage implements; and Eurocomach, producing a wide range ofmini and midi excavators for the construction sector, including electric solutions. Across a history spanning over two centuries, CNH Industrial has always been a pioneer in its sectors and continues to passionately innovate and drive customer efficiency and success. As a truly global company, CNH Industrial's 37,000+ employees form part of a diverse and inclusive workplace, focused on empowering customers to grow, and build, a better world.

For more information and the latest financial and sustainability reports visit: cnhindustrial.com

For news from CNH Industrial and its Brands visit: media.cnhindustrial.com

Media contacts:

Rebecca Fabian Anna Angelini North America United Kingdom Tel. +1 312 515 2249 Tel. +44 (0)7725 826 007

mediarelations@cnhind.com

Attachment
REC Silicon ASA (REC Silicon) will release its Q2 2022 results on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at 7:00 a.m. CEST.

The same day at 8:00 a.m. CEST, the company will host an audiocast to present the results. Following the presentation, it will be opened for questions from the audience.

The presentation and the following Q&A session will be in English.

To join the audiocast, use the following link.

https://channel.royalcast.com/landingpage/hegnarmedia/20220817_11/

Audiocast participants need to register to post questions.

For further information, please contact:

Nils O. Kjerstad, IR Contact

Phone: +47 9135 6659

Email: nils.kjerstad@crux.no

About REC Silicon:

REC Silicon is a leading producer of advanced silicon materials, delivering high-purity polysilicon and silicon gas to the solar and electronics industries worldwide. We combine over 30 years of experience and proprietary technology with the needs of our customers, and annual production capacity of more than 20,000 MT of polysilicon from our two US-based manufacturing plants. Listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (ticker: RECSI), the company is headquartered in Lysaker, Norway.

For more information, go to: www.recsilicon.com

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
Picton Property Income Ltd - Publication of Notice of Annual General Meeting

09 August 2022

PICTON PROPERTY INCOME LIMITED

("Picton" or the "Company")

LEI: 213800RYE59K9CKR4497

PUBLICATION OF NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Seventeenth Annual General Meeting of the Company will be held on Thursday 1 September 2022.

Further details are contained within the Notice of Annual General Meeting which will shortly be posted to shareholders and made available on the Company's website along with the 2022 Annual Report and Financial Statements.

Shareholders are encouraged to complete and return their forms of proxy within the prescribed timeframe, so that all proxy votes can be counted.

The Company will also provide an online presentation via the Investor Meet Company platform on 1 September 2022 at 11 am.

The presentation is open to all existing and potential shareholders. Questions can be submitted pre-event via the Investor Meet Company dashboard up until 9am the day before the meeting or at any time during the live presentation.

Investors can sign up to Investor Meet Company for free and add to meet PICTON PROPERTY INCOME LTD via:

https://www.investormeetcompany.com/picton-property-income-ltd/register-investor

In accordance with Listing Rule 9.6.3, the Notice of Annual General Meeting, proxy form and Annual Report and Financial Statements have been submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and will shortly be available for inspection at:

https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism

Enquiries:

Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited

The Company Secretary

Trafalgar Court

Les Banques

St Peter Port

Guernsey

GY1 3QL

Tel: 01481 745001

Note to Editors

Picton, established in 2005, is a UK REIT. It owns and actively manages an 879 million diversified UK commercial property portfolio, invested across 48 assets and with around 400 occupiers (as at 30 June 2022). Through an occupier focused, opportunity led approach to asset management, Picton aims to be one of the consistently best performing diversified UK focused property companies listed on the main market of the London Stock Exchange.

For more information please visit: www.picton.co.uk
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The global weather forecasting services market size is expected to reach USD 4.0 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2022 to 2030. Many businesses and industries such as aviation, agriculture, marine, transportation and logistics, and renewables are weather-sensitive, requiring highly accurate weather forecasting services and solutions to make decisions and operate efficiently. Climate change has led to more frequent extreme weather events, driving the demand for weather forecasting services worldwide.

Key Industry Insights & Findings from the report:

In terms of forecast, the medium-range segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2021 and is anticipated to expand at the highest CAGR over the forecast period. This can be attributed to the increasing demand and improvement in the accuracy of medium-range forecasts across industries.

By organization size, the large enterprises segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2021 and is expected to retain its lead over the forecast period. This can be attributed to factors such as advanced technological infrastructure and larger investments by enterprises.

Based on industry, the media segment dominated the market in 2021. The aviation segment accounted for the second-largest revenue share in 2021. The renewables segment is expected to expand at the highest CAGR of 7.1% over the forecast period owing to the energy transition worldwide.

North America held the largest revenue share in 2021 and is expected to retain its position over the forecast period. This can be attributed to the presence of a large number of weather forecasting service players in the region. The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to expand at the highest CAGR of over 6.8% over the forecast period.

Read 147-page full market research report, "Weather Forecasting Services Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Forecast (Nowcasting, Short-range), By Organization Size, By Industry, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2022 - 2030", published by Grand View Research.

Weather Forecasting Services Market Growth & Trends

The Covid-19 pandemic struck the globe in 2020, leading to travel restrictions and lockdowns. It impacted the operations of the market players owing to government regulations and supply chain disruption. Some of the market players witnessed negative or lower year-over-year (YoY) growth in revenues during the financial year. The accuracy of weather forecasts was probably reduced as lesser flights operated during the lockdown period. Other observation systems such as marine and satellites were affected to a lesser extent.

Many weather forecasting service providers offer tailored solutions to industries, meeting application-specific needs. Technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are expected to aid in improving the weather forecast quality. Many players also offer data and analytics weather solutions to their clients, helping them mitigate risks and operate more efficiently. Market players are investing in research and technology such as automation and supercomputers for providing highly accurate weather forecasts

Weather Forecasting Services Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global weather forecasting services market based on forecast, organization size, industry, and region:

Weather Forecasting Services Market - Forecast Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

Nowcasting

Short-range

Medium-range

Long-range

Weather Forecasting Services Market - Organization Size Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

Large Enterprises

Small & Medium Enterprises

Weather Forecasting Services Market - Industry Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

Agriculture

Aviation

Energy & Utilities

Renewables

Logistics & Transportation

Marine

Retail

Media

Manufacturing

Others

Weather Forecasting Services Market - Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

North America

U.S.



Canada

Europe

U.K.



Germany



France



Italy



Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China



India



Japan



Australia



Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil



Mexico



Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

List of Key Players of Weather Forecasting Services Market

DTN

Fugro

AccuWeather, Inc.

TWC Product & Technology LLC

Met Office

StormGeo

Spire Global, Inc.

Precision Weather

The Tomorrow Companies Inc.

Earth Networks

Check out more market research studies published by Grand View Research:

Weather Information Technologies Market - The global weather information technologies market size is estimated to reach USD 17.78 billion by 2027, registering an estimated CAGR of 8.5% from 2020 to 2027, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The increasing need for real-time weather predictions and air quality index is one of the significant factors contributing to market growth. Furthermore, the prevalence of digital transformation technologies for determining highly accurate estimations has led to numerous growth opportunities for industry players.

The global weather information technologies market size is estimated to reach by 2027, registering an estimated CAGR of 8.5% from 2020 to 2027, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The increasing need for real-time weather predictions and air quality index is one of the significant factors contributing to market growth. Furthermore, the prevalence of digital transformation technologies for determining highly accurate estimations has led to numerous growth opportunities for industry players. Precision Viticulture Market - The global precision viticulture market size is expected to reach USD 2.55 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 9.2% from 2020 to 2027, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The increasing focus of farmers on ensuring farm productivity coupled with the rising need to monitor grape quality is the key factor driving the adoption of advanced technology solutions at vineyards. Moreover, the demand for high-quality grapes from vine manufacturing companies is further encouraging vineyard owners to adopt precision viticulture technologies at vineyards.

- The global precision viticulture market size is expected to reach by 2027, registering a CAGR of 9.2% from 2020 to 2027, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The increasing focus of farmers on ensuring farm productivity coupled with the rising need to monitor grape quality is the key factor driving the adoption of advanced technology solutions at vineyards. Moreover, the demand for high-quality grapes from vine manufacturing companies is further encouraging vineyard owners to adopt precision viticulture technologies at vineyards. Weather Forecasting Systems & Solutions Market - The global weather forecasting systems and solutions market size is expected to reach USD 4.63 billion by 2025, according to a study conducted by Grand View Research, Inc., experiencing a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period. Spiraling demand for disaster management and weather monitoring systems and growing concerns regarding rainfall uncertainties are providing a fillip to the market.

Browse through Grand View Research's Next Generation Technologies Industry Research Reports.

About Grand View Research

Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research Helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead.

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Halloumi Cheese Market Participants to Capitalize on Rising Demand for Mediterranean Food with Longer Shelf Lives

Fact.MR's recent industry analysis on the halloumi cheese market offers a comprehensive outlook of trends, opportunities, drivers, and restraints prevailing in the market. The study divulges compelling insights into segments of the market in terms of nature, flavor, product form, end use, distribution channel, and region.

NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The global halloumi cheese market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 12% during the forecast period from 2020 to 2030. The global market is anticipated to reach a valuation of US$ 900 Million by the end of 2030.

The market for halloumi cheese is projected to be significantly impacted by various factors, including positive demographic changes and dynamic shifts in snacking patterns. Easy availability of different types of cheese with varying aromas and tastes in supermarkets and online platforms is also expected to drive growth.

Cyprus continues to be one of the top manufacturers and exporters of halloumi cheese. Apart from that, demand for halloumi cheese is anticipated to surge in European and the Middle Eastern countries owing to high demand for organic cheese among the health-conscious population.

For Critical Insights on this Market, Get A Sample Report!

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Ability of halloumi cheese to provide a high level of protein is another crucial factor that is likely to boost the market. Demand for this type of cheese is on the rise backed by increasing shift towards snacking from conventional eating patterns.

Besides, rapid expansion of the retail sector and rising preference for Mediterranean food items among millennials are set to aid the growth in the market. Hence, key players are also focusing on improving their distribution networks and surge the shelf-life of their in-house products to attract a large consumer base.

Key Takeaways:

Middle East and Europe are projected to lead the global halloumi cheese market with a cumulative share of over 70% in the next decade.

and are projected to lead the global halloumi cheese market with a cumulative share of over 70% in the next decade. The global halloumi cheese market is expected to reach a valuation of nearly US$ 900 Million by the end of 2030.

by the end of 2030. The U.K. has stopped about 70% of its incoming trade associated with halloumi cheese in the last few months.

Recent government approval to bring dairy products from various parts of the world to China is expected to push the country in Asia Pacific .

Growth Drivers:

As halloumi cheese is regarded as a high-protein alternative to meat among vegans, it is expected to generate more sales.

As halloumi cheese is high in calcium, it provides a person's bones with their structure and strength, which would propel growth.

Restraints:

Halloumi cheese has high sodium content and thus people with high blood pressure cannot consume it on a daily basis.

Though raw halloumi cheese contains moderate calories, consuming it with food that is coated or fried in oil can increase the calorie content.

To Gain In-Depth Insights on Halloumi Cheese Market, Request Methodology at

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Competitive Landscape:

Key players operating in the global halloumi cheese market are engaging in research and development activities to come up with novel products. Some of the other companies are focusing on joining hands with renowned fast food chains or restaurants to provide them with their in-house products.

For instance,

In June 2022 , McDonald's UK announced that it is set to launch a new exciting menu item since Chicken Big Mac- Halloumi Fries. The popular fast food chain unveiled its innovative Taste of Cyprus and Spain menu that features Halloumi Fries, a new drink, and two burgers.

, McDonald's UK announced that it is set to launch a new exciting menu item since Chicken Big Mac- Halloumi Fries. The popular fast food chain unveiled its innovative Taste of and menu that features Halloumi Fries, a new drink, and two burgers. In December 2021 , Violife, a provider of vegan cheese alternative products based in New Jersey , launched its new plant-based Halloumi style cheese named Grill Me in Sprouts locations. It has also introduced Smoked Gouda Slices that would provide a nostalgic and mellow smoky flavor.

Key Companies Profiled by Fact.MR

Petrou Bros Dairy Products Ltd.

Akgol Dairy

Grillies

Routhier Weber GmbH

N.TH. Kouroushis LTD.

Lemnos Foods

FarmLand General Trading Co

Almarai

Waimata Cheese Company

GALAKTOKOMIO A.D.S DAFNI LTD

Interested to Procure The Data? Inquire here

https://www.factmr.com/connectus/sample?flag=EB&rep_id=1753

More Valuable Insights on Halloumi Cheese Market

In the latest study, Fact.MR offers a detailed study on global halloumi cheese market for the forecast period of 2022 to 2032. This study also highlights key drivers promoting the sales of halloumi cheese through detailed segmentation as follows:

By Nature:

Organic

Conventional

By Flavor:

Plain

Flavored

Mint

Chili

Others

By Product Form:

Slices

Blocks

By End Use:

B2B

Food Service

Industrial

B2C

By Distribution Channel:

Direct Sales

Hypermarkets /Supermarkets

Convenience Stores

Discount Stores

Dairy Stores

Online Retail

Others

By Region:

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

MEA

Key Questions Covered in the Halloumi Cheese Market Report

What is the projected value of the halloumi cheese market in 2020?

At what rate will the global halloumi cheese market grow until 2030?

Which are the factors hampering the growth in the halloumi cheese market?

Which region is expected to lead in the global halloumi cheese market during 2020-2030?

Which are the factors driving halloumi cheese market during the forecast period?

What is the expected market value of the halloumi cheese market during the forecast period?

Explore Fact.MR's Similar Reports on the Cheese Industry

Cheese Market: Increasing demand for convenience food across the globe is projected to drive the global cheese market in the forecast period. Besides, rising purchasing power of people, shifting food habits, and emergence of interesting marketing campaigns are set to aid growth.

Cheese Concentrate Market: According to Fact.MR, the global market for cheese concentrates is set to expand at a CAGR of 10% during the forecast period (2019-2029). Demand for flavored cheese has increased, which has further pushed the need for paste cheese concentrates globally.

Cheese Crumbles Market: Rising demand for convenience food ingredients among manufacturers across the globe is anticipated to drive the cheese crumbles market in the next decade. In addition, easy availability of cheese crumbles in a wide range of aromas, tastes, and textures as per consumer requirement is likely to drive growth.

Cheese Analogue Market: Cheese Analogue Market Trends Analysis By Product Type (Non-dairy Cheese Analogues, Dairy Cheese Analogues & Partial Dairy Cheese Analogues) By Application and By Region till 2032.

Cheese Cultures Market: Europe is estimated to be the largest market for cheese Cultures followed by North America. Emerging countries, such as China and India, are expected to contribute heavily to the growth of globally cheese Cultures due to rising incomes and healthy eating trends.

Cheddar Cheese Market: Cheddar Cheese Market Analysis Report By Product (Blocks, Cubes, Slice, Spread, Spray), By Source (Cattle Milk, Goat Milk, Sheep Milk), By Application (Processed Cheese, Snacks & Savory, Bakery & Confectionery), By Sales Channel, By Region - Global Market Insights 2019-2029

Processed Cheese Market: Processed Cheese Market Size, Share & Analysis by Cheese Type (Blue Cheese, Brick Cheese, Camembert Cheese, Cheddar Cheese, Cottage Cheese), by Form (Cheese Blocks, Cheese Slice, Cheese Spread, Cheese Spray), by Milk Source, by Distribution & Regional Forecast 2019-2029

String Cheese Market: The Europe string cheese market is estimated to surpass US$ 1.7 billion by 2032. Germany, France, and the U.K. are expected to be key contributors to the European string cheese market growth.

Check it Out All the Reports by Fact.MR on Food & Beverage Industry

https://www.factmr.com/industry/food-and-beverage

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MUMBAI, INDIA, Aug 9, 2022 - (ACN Newswire) - 'Redefining the Future of Banking: Powered by Technology, Driven by Innovation' which was the theme for this year's edition of Trescon's Big BFSI Future Tech Show & Award, opened to a packed house of over 150+ pre-qualified C-suite executives, speakers and solution providers at The Taj Lands End, Mumbai.TresconBFSI featured technical presentations, panel discussions to enlighten the delegates with real-time use-cases about BFSI Infrastructure, Customer Experience and Cyber Security to name a few.Some of the top speakers included:- Amitabh Ranjan, Chairman, Reserve Bank of India- Anila Rao, VP, APAC, Haptik- Sumeet Puri, Chief Technology Solutions Officer, Solace Corporation- Chandan Gupta, Vertical Head, Data Center Services, Web Werks - Iron Mountain India DCs- Harshwardhan Mittal, CTO, Yubi (Formerly CredAvenue)- Somayajula Shekhar Rao, Head Sales, Strategic Accounts, EFLV India, Tata Communications Limited- Srinivasa Raghavan, Director, Product Management, Site24X7- Mohan Bhat, MD & Co-founder, Accops- Mahesh Ramamoorthy, CIO, Yes Bank- Amit Saxena, CTO, RBI, Innovation Hub- Prasanna Lohar, Chief Innovation Officer, DCB Bank- Prashant Thakkar, COOT, LIC Mutual Fund Asset Management Ltd (LICMF)- Nandkishore Purohit, Chief Digital and Technology Officer-IIFL Securities- Pinak Chakraborthy, CIO, Airtel Payment Bank- Navaneethan M, SVP- CISO & Head-it, Groww- Dheepak Rajoo, SVP, Digital Banking Technology, PMO, HR Technology, IT Governance RBL Bank, to name a fewThe event addressed important issues in banking landscape such as the rise of challenger banks in India; the future of money; transactions and the decline of cash; data-driven CX for higher ROI; chatbots as 'financial concierge'; a transition towards green banking and much more.The event kick started with an opening keynote on 'The Future of Banking in the Age of Digital Disruption' delivered by Dr. Amitabh Rajan, Chairman, Services Board at Reserve Bank of India. In his keynote he elucidated on post 2008 developments--economic, as well as technological and explained authentically the meaning of these changes for the next steps in the BFSI sector in the global context. He was quoted saying, "Market behavior is disruptive; technology is not the only thing that is on display. Therefore, it is necessary to have a deeper awareness of the financial condition."Sumeet Puri, Chief Technology Solutions Officer at Solace Corporation, spoke at length on topic 'Enabling the event-driven Digital Banking'. In his tech talk he was found quoting, "The approach of leveraging data on a product in real time is actually saving lives."Anila Rao, VP, APAC at Haptik shared her insights on 'Unlocking the power of WhatsApp Commerce for Financial Services'. Anila gave an exciting overview of Haptik's WhatsApp integration, which is the World's Largest WhatsApp Chatbot Provider, and how customers can power an end-to-end shopping experience and how to boost sales with our WhatsApp Chatbot Solution.Chandan Gupta, Vertical Head, Data Center Services at WebWerks, shared his insights from his tech talk on 'Colocation emerges as Interconnection Hub for Hybrid Landscape'.The event also featured BIG BFSI Awards, an awards ceremony to honor top 100 Leaders in India for their technology leadership, strategic influence, and significant contribution towards delivering excellence and innovation in their organization.Several Contests and Lucky draws were conducted during the conference session and followed-by the Cocktail Networking session."We're very glad to successfully host yet another edition of TresconBFSI. We are extremely happy to learn that this event is well on course to be India's most important tech event in the BFSI & NBFC space. I congratulate all the Big BFSI Award winners for their hard work, dedicated and excellence during tough times of Covid-19 pandemic," stated Mithun Shetty, CEO, Trescon.Partners at Big BFSI Future Tech Show & Awards include:Supported By - NITI Aayog,Gold partners - Web Works and Iron Mountain, Haptik Technologies Limited, Solace,Award Partner - Yubi (Formerly CredAvenue),Silver partners - Site 24X7, Tata Tele Business Services and Accops,Bronze partners - Kaleyra, ManageEngine, Dista and NeoSOFTAbout BIG BFSI Future Tech ShowBig BFSI Future Tech Show & Awards is a thought-leadership-driven, business-focused effort that offers a platform for tech professionals who wish to investigate and use cutting-edge future technology within their company.About TresconTrescon is a global business events and consulting firm that provide a wide range of business services to a diversified client base that includes corporations, governments and individuals. Trescon is specialized in producing highly focused B2B events that connect businesses with opportunities through conferences, roadshows, expos, demand generation, investor connect and consulting services.For further details about the announcement, please contact:Monith M Shetty,Media, PR & Corporate Communications, Trescon+91 95559 15156media@tresconglobal.comSource: tresconCopyright 2022 ACN Newswire . All rights reserved.


MOSCOW (dpa-AFX) - The U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York has issued a warrant to seize Russian oligarch Andrei Skoch's private plane, valued at more than $90 million, for violating U.S. sanctions for Russia's invasion of Ukraine.



Skoch's Airbus A319-100 is believed to be in Kazakhstan.



A member of Russian parliament and a metals and mining tycoon, Skoch has been on the U.S. blacklist since 2018 for Russia's invasion of Crimea, the eastern region of Ukraine.



After Russia invaded Ukraine in February, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)OFAC issued further sanctions against Skoch and his assets for 'support[ing] the Kremlin's efforts to violate Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.' On June 2, OFAC identified the Airbus as blocked property in which Skoch had an interest.



Skoch is the beneficial owner of the Airbus through a series of shell companies and trusts tied to his romantic partner. After OFAC designated Skoch in April 2018, U.S. dollar transactions were made to pay for the registration of the Airbus in Aruba and for aviation insurance premiums for the Airbus.



The seizure warrant notes that, in addition to the plane, Skoch owns a yacht named the Madame Gu, a helicopter, and a villa at the Four Seasons Hotel in the Seychelles. Those assets are not authorized for seizure. Authorities need to demonstrate that sanctions were violated, such as by money transferring through the US banking system, to seize property.



Skoch is the latest Russian oligarch to have one of his luxury assets that the U.S. government targeted.







Copyright(c) 2022 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved



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MOSCOW (dpa-AFX) - The United States announced an additional $1 billion security assistance package to bolster Ukraine's arms and ammunition in the fight against Russian invasion. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Monday authorized the latest U.S. military aid to Ukraine pursuant to a delegation of authority from the President. This marks the largest single drawdown of U.S. arms and equipment to Ukraine. This includes arms, munitions, and equipment from U.S. Department of Defense inventories for Ukraine's self-defense. Capabilities in this package include additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS); 75,000 rounds of 155mm artillery ammunition; 20 120mm mortar systems and 20,000 rounds of 120mm mortar ammunition; Munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS); 1,000 Javelin and hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems; 50 armored medical treatment vehicles; Claymore anti-personnel munitions; C-4 explosives, demolition munitions, and demolition equipment; and Medical supplies. The United State has been consistently reinforcing Ukrainian defense with modern artillery since Russia started attack on Ukraine more than five months ago. This eighteenth drawdown will bring total U.S. military assistance that the Biden Administration provided to Ukraine to approximately $9.7 billion. 'To meet Ukraine's evolving battlefield requirements, the United States will continue to work with its Allies and partners to provide Ukraine with key capabilities calibrated to make a difference,' Acting Pentagon Press Secretary Todd Breasseale said in a statement. Copyright(c) 2022 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
HIGHLAND BEACH, Fla., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Springboard Consulting, LLC is pleased to announce the 2022 Disability Matters Europe honorees. Winners are in the following categories:

MARKETPLACE

Dallara Group

Envision Technologies BV

Ufficio Inclusione-Universita Europea di Roma

UniCredit Bank Austria AG

WORKFORCE

Credit Agricole Italia S.p.A.

Seltis Hub S.r.l.

UniCredit Bank Austria AG

WORKPLACE

BNY Mellon

Findomestic Banca S.p.A.

Standard Chartered Bank AG

The honorees represent the Gold Standard when it comes to the required commitment and actions to successfully mainstream disability in the European workforce, workplace, and marketplace.

These corporate honorees serve as the role models all organizations should strive to become. In recognition of each these company's disability-related programs, initiatives and educational efforts, this year's winners were honored at Springboard Consulting's 9th Annual Disability Matters Europe Conference & Awards, hosted by Barilla Group., on 26 & 27 July via live-stream.

In addition to celebrating the winners and learning about their journeys to success, attendees were further educated by subject matter experts across the spectrum of disability. This year's Conference inspired attendees with two outstanding and inspirational keynote speakers: Gretchen Vogel of Springboard Consulting, and Chris Moon of Step Beyond.

Springboard believes when a company says, "we are committed to diversity;" it is similar to inviting diverse segments of the population to a party. Yet, when a company says, "we are committed to inclusion;" it is similar to asking those individuals to dance. We encourage European business leaders from across their enterprise to attend future Disability Matters Europe conferences to be educated, inspired, network, celebrate and commit to the full-inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the workforce, workplace, and marketplace.

To learn more about this event, learn how to attend, or become a sponsor visit >>

https://consultspringboard.com/disability-matters-about/.

ABOUT SPRINGBOARD CONSULTINGFounded in 2005, Springboard is recognized as the expert in mainstreaming disability in the global workforce, workplace, and marketplace. Serving corporations and organizations throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe and Asia, Springboard has become a trusted partner in relation to disability issues and initiatives across every business category. Springboard annually honors exemplary organizational initiatives that promote the outreach, support & engagement of people with disabilities as employees and as consumers though the Disability Matters Awards. www.consultspringboard.com

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9 August 2022

Rightmove plc

Share buy-back programme

Rightmove plc - Transaction in own shares

Rightmove plc ('Rightmove') announces that today it purchased 144,000 of its 0.1p ordinary shares at a volume weighted average price paid per share of 641.691p. The highest price paid per share was 659.400p and the lowest price paid per share was 633.200p. Rightmove purchased these shares through Numis Securities Limited.

The number of shares purchased represented 0.0172% of the voting rights attributable to the total ordinary shares in issue prior to such purchase. The purchased shares will be cancelled.

Since announcing a share buy-back programme on 28 December 2007, Rightmove has purchased in aggregate 470,030,229 ordinary shares.

The total number of ordinary shares in issue (excluding treasury shares) following this announcement is 836,648,799. Rightmove holds 12,375,052 shares in treasury.

In accordance with Article 5(1)(b) of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 (the Market Abuse Regulation) as amended by The Market Abuse (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (the "UK MAR"), the schedule below contains detailed information about the purchases made by Numis Securities Limited on behalf of the Company as part of the buyback programme.

Contact: Sandra Odell, Company Secretary CompanySecretary@rightmove.co.uk

Schedule of Purchases - Individual Transactions
By Batko Milacic for the Saker Blog

August 09, 2022: Information Clearing House -- Ukrainian forces have threatened civilians by setting up bases and operating weapons systems in populated areas, including schools and hospitals, as they battled the Russian intervention that began in February, Amnesty International said in a statement.

Such a tactic violates international humanitarian law and endangers civilians, as it turns civilian objects into military targets. The Russian strikes that followed in populated areas killed civilians and destroyed civilian infrastructure, the statement said.

 Amnesty International has documented a pattern of Ukrainian forces putting civilians at risk and violating the laws of war when conducting operations in populated areas  said Agnes Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International.

He pointed out that the defensive position does not free the Ukrainian army from respecting international humanitarian law.

The organizations researchers spent several weeks from April to July investigating Russian attacks in Kharkiv, Donbass and the Mykolaiv region.

The organization inspected the attacked sites, interviewed survivors, eyewitnesses, relatives of the victims of the attack, and carried out remote detection and analysis of weapons. During those investigations, evidence was found that Ukrainian forces were firing from heavily populated areas and were themselves inside civilian buildings in 19 towns and villages in these regions. The organization analyzed satellite images to further confirm some of these incidents  it is emphasized.

According to Amnesty International, most of the residential areas where the soldiers were located were kilometers away from the front.

 Viable alternatives were available that would not endanger civilians, such as military bases or densely wooded areas nearby, or other structures further away from residential areas. In the cases it has documented, Amnesty International is not aware that the Ukrainian military, located in civilian structures in residential areas, asked or helped civilians to evacuate, which is a failure to take all feasible precautions to protect civilians. announcement.

Directed shooting from populated areas

Amnesty says survivors and eyewitnesses of Russian attacks in Donbass, Kharkiv and the Mykolaiv region told researchers that the Ukrainian military was conducting operations near their homes at the time of the attacks, exposing the areas to counterfire from Russian forces. Amnesty International researchers have witnessed such behavior in numerous locations.

International humanitarian law requires all parties to a conflict to avoid locating, to the greatest extent possible, military targets within or near densely populated areas. Other obligations to protect civilians from the effects of attacks include removing civilians from the vicinity of military targets and providing effective warning of attacks that may affect the civilian population.

 The army was stationed in the house next to ours and my son often brought food to the soldiers. I begged him several times to stay away, because I feared for his safety. That afternoon, when the attack happened, my son was in our yard and I was in the house. He died on the spot. His body was mutilated. Our house was partially destroyed  said the mother of a man (50), who was killed in a rocket attack on June 10 in a village south of Nikolaev.

Amnesty International found military equipment and uniforms in the house next to hers.

Nikola, who lives in the block in Lisichansk in Donbass, which the Russians regularly targeted and killed at least one person, said that it is not clear to him why our army fires from the cities and not from the fields.

Another resident said that there is definitely military activity in the neighborhood.

 We hear outgoing and then incoming fire  he said.

Amnesty International teams saw soldiers using residential buildings located 20 meters from the entrance to the underground shelter, which was used by residents and where an elderly man was killed.

In one Donbas town on May 6, Russian forces used cluster munitions over a neighborhood of mostly one- or two-story houses where Ukrainian forces were manning artillery. Shrapnel damaged the walls of the house where Ana (70) lives with her son and 95-year-old mother.

In early July, a farm worker was injured when Russian forces attacked an agricultural warehouse in the Nikolayev area. Hours after the attack, Amnesty International researchers witnessed the presence of Ukrainian military personnel and vehicles in the grain storage area, and witnesses confirmed that the military was using the warehouse, which is located across from a farm where civilians live and work.

As researchers surveyed damage to residential and public buildings in Kharkiv and villages in the Donbass and east of Mykolaiv, they heard gunfire from nearby Ukrainian military positions.

In Bakhmut, several residents said the Ukrainian military was using a building barely 20 meters across the street from the high-rise. On May 18, a Russian rocket hit the front of the building, partially destroying five apartments and damaging nearby buildings.

Military bases in hospitals

Amnesty International researchers witnessed Ukrainian forces using hospitals as de facto military bases in five locations. In the two cities, dozens of soldiers rested and ate in hospitals. In another town, soldiers fired from near a hospital.

A Russian airstrike on April 28 injured two workers at a medical laboratory in the suburbs of Kharkiv after Ukrainian forces set up a base in the compound. Using hospitals for military purposes is a clear violation of international humanitarian law.

Military bases in schools

The Ukrainian army routinely set up bases in schools in the cities and villages of the Donbass and in the Mykolaiv region. Schools have been temporarily closed to students since the beginning of the conflict, but in most cases the buildings were located near civilian settlements.

In 22 of the 29 schools visited, researchers either found soldiers using the premises or found evidence of current or previous military activity  including the presence of military equipment, ammunition, military ration packs and military vehicles.

Russian forces attacked many schools used by Ukrainian forces. In at least three cities, after Russian bombing of schools, Ukrainian soldiers moved to other schools nearby, putting surrounding neighborhoods at risk of similar attacks.

In a city east of Odessa, Amnesty witnessed Ukrainian soldiers using civilian areas for accommodation and staging areas, including basing armored vehicles under trees in residential areas and using two schools located in densely populated residential areas.

Conclusion

Amnesty Internationals report was not a surprise to me as an analyst. Since the beginning of the conflict, all of us who follow the behavior and tactics of the Ukrainian army have witnessed such tactics of the Ukrainian army, which are strictly prohibited by international law. Also, the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned about the behavior of the Ukrainian army that threatens innocent civilians. However, the fact that the respected Amnesty International writes about it in its report represents a strategic turn. Bearing in mind that this is an extremely respected Western non-governmental organization, we can safely say that even in the West, the opinion is slowly growing that the criminal behavior of the Ukrainian army will no longer be tolerated.
Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

For immediate release

9 August 2022

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announces that it has today purchased 75,000 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 861.65 pence per Ordinary Share. Such shares will be held in treasury by the Company.

The transaction was made pursuant to the authority granted at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 9 February 2022.

Following this transaction, the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury is 5,532,347; the total number of Ordinary Shares that the Company has in issue, less the total number of Ordinary Shares held by the Company in treasury following such purchase, and therefore, the total number of voting rights in the Company is 219,458,956.

The figure of 219,458,956 may be used by shareholders as the denominator for calculations of interests in the Company's voting rights in accordance with the FCA's Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules.

For and on behalf of

Frostrow Capital LLP

Company Secretary

For further information, please contact:

Victoria Hale

Frostrow Capital LLP

Tel: 020 3 170 8732
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Mawson Gold Limited ("Mawson" or the "Company") (TSX:MAW) (Frankfurt:MXR) (OTC PINK:MWSNF) reports that its majority-owned Australian subsidiary, Southern Cross Gold Ltd("SXG"), has reported further results from its 100% owned Sunday Creek property, Victoria, Australia. Mawson owns 60% of SXG following its recent initial public offering ("IPO") on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX").

Highlights for Mawson Shareholders:

2 nd and 4 th best holes ever drilled into Sunday Creek Project area now hosts fifteen >100 AuEq g/t * m intersections

Wide and continuous zones of gold-antimony mineralization over 100 m in the plane of the Apollo shoot around drill hole SDDSC033. Highlights, 42.0 m @ 4.8 g/t AuEq from 166.0 m in SDDSC039

(3.5 g/t Au and 0.8% Sb, 30 metres below SDDSC033) 15.3 m @ 4.2 g/t AuEq from 141.0 m in SDDSC038

(2.8 g/t Au and 0.9% Sb, 60 metres above SDDSC033)

Exceptional high grade zones with sometimes abundant visible gold (Photos 1-3). Highlights; 1.0 m @ 23.7 g/t AuEq from 197.6 m (19.8 g/t Au and 2.5% Sb, SDDSC039) 1.5 m @ 22.6 g/t AuEq from 199.3 m (14.9 g/t Au and 4.9% Sb, SDDSC039) 0.7 m @ 105.7 g/t AuEq from 202.0 m (84.0 g/t Au and 13.8%, Sb SDDSC039) 0.8 m @ 21.3 g/t AuEq from 98.5 m (0.3 g/t Au and 13.3%, Sb SDDSC038) 1.5 m @ 25.8 g/t AuEq from 149.6 m (19.9 g/t Au and 3.7%, Sb SDDSC038)

(Photos 1-3). Highlights; Two new high grade veins intersected 70 and 100 metres to the east in SDDSC038.

Mawson's 60% stake in SXG has a market capitalization of ~C$45 million based on SXG's 9 th August closing price of A$0.54 per share - up 270% on its IPO price.

based on SXG's 9 August closing price of A$0.54 per share - Two drill rigs are now active at the Sunday Creek site. A further five holes are either in progress or pending assay.

Ivan Fairhall, Mawson CEO, states: "Sunday Creek continues to deliver for its shareholders, of which Mawson is its largest. These results demonstrate the continuity of widths and grade in the Apollo shoot around the earlier spectacular result in SDSC0033.

Mawson's asset base is as strong as it has ever been, with its pre-PEA stage 1moz AuEq Rajapalot project and significant exploration upside in Finland, a brand new discovery in Sweden, and toping it off a controlling interest in SXG which has considerable market value as demonstrated by its ASX listing."

Figure 1: Sunday Creek longitudinal section along the Apollo shoot looking towards 320 degrees showing drillholes reported here (SDDSC038-39) and continuity of wide and high-grade mineralization around drillhole SDDSC033 and down to 335 metres vertically below surface (MDDSC025).

Results Discussion

With 13,500 metres drilled at Sunday Creek in less than two years, the project now has fifteen (15) >100 cumulative grade x metres ("AuEq g/t x m") holes intersected. The two new drill holes (SDDSC038-39) form the 2nd and 4th best drill holes, after SDDSC033, to be drilled to date at Sunday Creek based on AuEq g/t x m. The 3rd best hole (MDDSC025 11.7 m @ 18.0 g/t AuEq) lies 200 m below SDDSC033 showing the scale of the developing system. Mineralization remains open at depth and along strike.

A 10 km mineralized trend that extends beyond the drill area is defined by historic workings and soil sampling at Sunday Creek which has yet to receive any exploration drilling and offers potential future upside.

The Sunday Creek epizonal-style gold project is located 60 km north of Melbourne (Figure 2) within 19,365 hectares of granted exploration tenements. SXG is also the freehold landholder of 132.64 hectares that forms the key portion in and around the drilled area at the Sunday Creek Project. Geologically, the project is located within the Melbourne Structural Zone in the Lachlan Fold Belt. The regional host to the Sunday Creek mineralization is an interbedded turbidite sequence of siltstones, minor sandstones metamorphosed to sub-greenschist facies and folded into a set of open NW trending folds. Mineralization at Sunday Creek is controlled by veining, stibnite-gold-matrix breccias and brittle faults. The immediate host for mineralization is a zone of intensely altered white mica-pyritic siltstones, and white mica-pyrite-carbonate altered dyke rocks.

As is typical for epizonal deposits like Fosterville and Costerfield, gold (sometimes visible (Photos 1 - 3)) at Sunday Creek is hosted in quartz and carbonate veins, with a later intense stibnite-bearing vein and breccia overprint. A larger arsenic anomaly is associated with the gold mineralization, mostly represented by arsenian-pyrite but developing to arsenopyrite-bearing zones with a clear spatial relationship to high-grade gold.

Mineralized shoots at Sunday Creek are formed at the intersection of the sub-vertical to shallower dipping 330 degree striking mineralized veins and a steep east-west striking, north dipping structure formed by dioritic dykes and related intrusive breccias. The dimensions of each shoot will be uncovered with further drilling, but typically:

In the down plunge orientation (80 degrees towards trend of 020 degrees), the shoots are extensive and have been drilled down over 400 m and remain open to depth, with grades improving (for example MDDSC025 11.7 m @ 18.0 g/t AuEq (12.4 g/t Au and 3.6% Sb) including 4.0 m @ 46.7 g/t AuEq (31.9 g/t Au and 9.4% Sb)).

Visible gold in other epizonal deposits (for example Fosterville and Costerfield) becomes increasingly significant at depth below approximately 800 m, most likely representing the different temperatures of formation of Au-Sb and Au dominant mineralization.

Are typically 20 m to 30 m wide in the up-dip/down-dip orientation but can blow out to be wider (ie around SDDSC033), and;

Further drilling is required to establish the average thickness but drilling so far suggests a thickness of 20 m to 30 m.

SDDSC038 also identified two new veins drilled 70 m and 100 m further east than previously drilled. 'Vein 1' intersected 1.0 m @ 11.5 g/t AuEq (7.5 g/t Au and 2.5% Sb) from 235.0 m and 0.2 m @ 10.0 g/t AuEq (8.2 g/t Au and 1.2% Sb) from 238.0 m. 'Vein 2' intersected 0.6 m @ 28.3 g/t AuEq (0.9 g/t Au and 17.4% Sb) from 306.3 m.

Figures 1-4 show project location and plan, longitudinal and cross section views of drill results reported here and Tables 1-3 provide collar and assay data. The true thickness of the mineralised interval is interpreted to be approximately 60-70% of the sampled thickness. Drill results quoted have a lower cut of 0.3 g/t Au cut over a 3.0 m width, with higher grades reported with a 5 g/t Au cut over 1.0 m applied unless otherwise indicated* where 0.1 g/t Au over 7.0 m was applied for broader intersection through length of mineralised structure).

Additional information may be found in Southern Cross' news release dated 9th August, and on its website at www.southerncrossgold.com.au.

Technical Background and Qualified Person

C$ conversions of A$ values completed at an exchange rate of 1.11.

The Qualified Person, Michael Hudson, Executive Chairman and a director of Mawson Gold, and a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, has reviewed, verified and approved the technical contents of this release.

Analytical samples are transported to the Bendigo facility of On Site Laboratory Services ("On Site") which operates under both an ISO 9001 and NATA quality systems. Samples were prepared and analyzed for gold using the fire assay technique (PE01S method; 25 gram charge), followed by measuring the gold in solution with flame AAS equipment. Samples for multi-element analysis (BM011 and over-range methods as required) use aqua regia digestion and ICP-MS analysis. The QA/QC program of Southern Cross Gold consists of the systematic insertion of certified standards of known gold content, blanks within interpreted mineralized rock and quarter core duplicates. In addition, On Site inserts blanks and standards into the analytical process.

Gold equivalent "AuEq" for Sunday Creek is = ???? (??/??) + 1.58  ???? (%) based on assumed prices of gold US$1,700/oz Au and antimony US$8,500/metal tonne, and total year metal recoveries of 93% for gold and 95% for antimony. Given the geological similarities of the projects, this formula has been adopted to align to TSX listed Mandalay Resources Ltd Technical Report dated 25 March 2022 on its Costerfield project, which is located 54 km from Sunday Creek and which historically processed mineralization from the property.

Gold equivalent "AuEq" for Rajapalot = Au+(Co/1005) based on assumed prices of cobalt US$23.07/lb and gold US$1,590/oz. Details of Mawson's Inferred Mineral Resource can be read in the Company's news release dated August 26, 2021.

About Mawson Gold Limited (TSX:MAW, FRANKFURT:MXR, OTCPINK:MWSNF)

Mawson Gold Limited is an exploration and development company with its flagship Rajapalot gold-cobalt project in Finland now entering technical study stages to de-risk its inferred resource and exploration growth program. Alongside ongoing exploration at Rajapalot, Mawson holds an option to earn up to 85% in the Skelleftea Gold Project in Sweden. Mawson also has a significant majority interest in the ownership or joint venture into three high-grade, historic epizonal goldfields covering 470 km in Victoria, Australia, through Southern Cross Gold Ltd. ("Southern Cross"), which shares have successfully listed on the ASX. Mawson currently holds 60.3% ownership interest in Southern Cross. Mawson's holdings in Southern Cross are escrowed until May 16, 2024.

About Southern Cross Gold Ltd (ASX:SXG)

Southern Cross Gold holds the 100%-owned Sunday Creek project in Victoria and Mt Isa project in Queensland, the Redcastle and Whroo joint ventures in Victoria, Australia, and a strategic 10% holding in ASX-listed Nagambie Resources Limited (ASX:NAG) which grants Southern Cross a Right of First Refusal over a 3,300 square kilometre tenement package held by NAG in Victoria.

On behalf of the Board,

"Ivan Fairhall"

Ivan Fairhall, CEO Further Information

www.mawsongold.com

1305 - 1090 West Georgia St., Vancouver, BC, V6E 3V7

Mariana Bermudez (Canada), Corporate Secretary

+1 (604) 685 9316 info@mawsongold.com

Forward-Looking Statement

This news release contains forward-looking statements or forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). All statements herein, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Although Mawson believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate, and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Mawson cautions investors that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, Mawson's expectations regarding its ownership interest in Southern Cross Gold, capital and other costs varying significantly from estimates, changes in world metal markets, changes in equity markets, the potential impact of epidemics, pandemics or other public health crises, including the current pandemic known as COVID-19 on the Company's business, risks related to negative publicity with respect to the Company or the mining industry in general; exploration potential being conceptual in nature, there being insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource on the Australian-projects owned by SXG, and uncertainty if further exploration will result in the determination of a mineral resource; planned drill programs and results varying from expectations, delays in obtaining results, equipment failure, unexpected geological conditions, local community relations, dealings with non-governmental organizations, delays in operations due to permit grants, environmental and safety risks, and other risks and uncertainties disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in Mawson's most recent Annual Information Form filed on www.sedar.com. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, Mawson disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

Photo 1: SDDSC039 @ 202.4 metres showing abundant visible gold in quartz-carbonate and stibnite matrix. Assays from two quarter core from this interval assayed 112 g/t Au with a laboratory repeat of 130 g/t Au and 14.4% Sb (sample 61014702) and 47 g/t Au and 13.1% Sb (sample 61014701) for an average of 0.7 m @ 105.7 g/t AuEq (84.0 g/t Au and 13.8% Sb) from 202.0 m. Field of view 12 mm.

Photo 2: SDDSC039 @ 202.7 m Stibnite-white mica altered sediment breccia zone with ferroan dolomite and quartz veins with stibnite and visible gold. Assays from two quarter core from this interval assayed 112 g/t Au with a laboratory repeat of 130 g/t Au and 14.4% Sb (sample 61014702) and 47 g/t Au and 13.1% Sb (sample 61014701) for an average of 0.7 m @ 105.7 g/t AuEq (84.0 g/t Au and 13.8% Sb) from 202.0 m. Field of view of top image is 20 mm.

Photo 3: SDDSC039 @ 203.7 m: Ferroan dolomite and quartz with stibnite and visible gold. Interval averaged 0.5 m @ 82.6 g/t AuEq (42.9 g/t Au and 25.1% Sb) from 203.7 m. Field of view of top image is 15 mm.

Figure 2: Location of the Sunday Creek project, along with SXG's other Victoria projects.

Figure 3: Sunday Creek plan view showing locations of drillholes for results reported in this announcement and pending holes.

Figure 4: Sunday Creek east-west longitudinal section along the trend of the dyke/structure showing individual shoots defined to date. Broad arrows show indicative mineralised shoots.

Table 1: Drill collar summary table for drillholes reported in this announcement.

Hole_ID Hole Size Depth (m) Prospect East North Elevation Azimuth Plunge GDA94_Z55 GDA94_Z55 SDDSC033 HQ 246.1 Apollo 331171 5867843.7 306 245.1 -51.4 SDDSC034 HQ 165.3 Apollo 331089 5867789 313.41 221.2 -63.1 SDDSC035 HQ 281.9 Apollo 331124 5867845 303.86 210.0 -60.0 SDDSC036 HQ 290 Apollo 331154 5867856 305.3 238.2 -50.1 SDDSC037 HQ 420 Gladys 331111.8 5867975.3 319.3 216.1 -60.1 SDDSC038 HQ 401.9 Apollo 330965.3 5867725.3 314.5 63.9 -37.2 SDDSC039 HQ 323 Apollo 331172 5867842 306.3 249.0 -57.0 SDDSC040 HQ 400 Apollo 331049.7 5867715 323.6 16.2 -62.9 SDDSC041 HQ 165 Rising Sun 330778 5867898 294.2 221.0 -67.0 SDDSC042 HQ 300 Apollo 331018.7 5867841.6 300.0 138.8 -61.1

Table 2: Tables of mineralized drill hole intersections reported in this announcement using three intersection criteria

5.0 g/t AuEq cutoff over a maximum of 1m

Hole_ID From (m) To (m) Width (m) Au g/t Sb % AuEq g/t SDDSC038 98.5 99.3 0.8 0.25 13.30 21.26 SDDSC038 101.7 103 1.3 0.05 5.42 8.62 SDDSC038 142.4 142.7 0.3 3.56 15.50 28.05 SDDSC038 148 148.3 0.3 11.40 4.00 17.72 SDDSC038 149.6 152.3 2.7 12.92 2.63 17.08 SDDSC038 195.8 197.2 1.4 12.47 0.20 12.78 SDDSC038 217.8 218.4 0.6 1.72 2.96 6.39 SDDSC038 235 236.9 1.9 5.06 2.30 8.69 SDDSC038 238 238.2 0.2 8.22 1.15 10.03 SDDSC038 240.6 240.9 0.3 2.99 1.76 5.77 SDDSC038 306.3 306.9 0.6 0.85 17.40 28.34 SDDSC039 78.9 79.3 0.4 1.37 3.75 7.30 SDDSC039 194.8 195.1 0.3 2.20 3.04 7.00 SDDSC039 197.6 200.75 3.15 13.11 3.00 17.85 SDDSC039 202 203.85 1.85 43.23 11.39 61.23

0.3 g/t lower cutoff over a maximum of 2m

Hole_ID From (m) To (m) Width (m) Au g/t Sb % AuEq g/t SDDSC038 17 18 1 0.65 0.00 0.65 SDDSC038 24 25.6 1.6 1.35 0.00 1.35 SDDSC038 51.8 53.9 2.1 1.66 0.24 2.03 SDDSC038 92 109.6 17.6 0.89 1.15 2.71 SDDSC038 113.9 117.4 3.5 0.54 0.02 0.57 SDDSC038 120.7 124 3.3 0.38 0.01 0.40 SDDSC038 130 131 1 2.30 0.01 2.32 SDDSC038 141 152.8 11.8 3.58 1.19 5.46 SDDSC038 171.6 172.5 0.9 0.96 0.00 0.97 SDDSC038 195.8 197.2 1.4 12.47 0.20 12.78 SDDSC038 209.2 212.7 3.5 0.37 0.09 0.51 SDDSC038 215.8 218.4 2.6 0.95 0.73 2.10 SDDSC038 221 222.6 1.6 0.52 0.18 0.81 SDDSC038 224.6 230 5.4 0.74 0.07 0.85 SDDSC038 234 243.5 9.5 1.89 0.73 3.05 SDDSC038 287 288 1 0.30 0.01 0.31 SDDSC038 294.7 295.1 0.4 0.27 0.05 0.34 SDDSC038 305.5 307.8 2.3 0.28 5.10 8.33 SDDSC038 380 382 2 0.67 0.07 0.77 SDDSC039 72.6 73.6 1 0.39 0.06 0.48 SDDSC039 78.9 83 4.1 0.39 0.46 1.12 SDDSC039 101.4 101.8 0.4 0.57 0.00 0.57 SDDSC039 166 166.8 0.8 0.34 0.01 0.36 SDDSC039 169.6 187 17.4 0.96 0.09 1.09 SDDSC039 194 207 13 10.00 2.48 13.92 SDDSC039 212 212.4 0.4 2.64 0.19 2.94 SDDSC039 296 296.8 0.8 0.11 2.88 4.66

0.1 g/t lower cutoff over a maximum of 3m

Hole_ID from (m) to (m) Width (m) Au g/t Sb % AuEq g/t SDDSC033 106.8 226.0 119.2 3.2 0.4 3.9

Table 3: All individual assays reported from SDDSC038/39 in this announcement >0.1g/t AuEq.

Hole_ID from (m) to (m) Width (m) Au g/t Sb% SDDSC039 64.6 65.0 0.4 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 65.0 66.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 67.0 68.4 1.4 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 72.6 73.4 0.8 0.4 0.0 SDDSC039 73.4 73.6 0.2 0.5 0.2 SDDSC039 73.6 74.2 0.6 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 74.2 75.0 0.8 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 78.0 78.9 0.9 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 78.9 79.3 0.4 1.4 3.8 SDDSC039 79.3 80.0 0.7 0.9 0.5 SDDSC039 80.0 81.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 82.0 83.0 1.0 0.3 0.0 SDDSC039 83.0 84.0 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 86.6 87.4 0.8 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 87.4 88.3 0.9 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 88.3 89.0 0.7 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 89.0 90.0 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 90.0 91.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 91.0 91.7 0.7 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 91.7 92.7 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 101.4 101.8 0.4 0.6 0.0 SDDSC039 119.2 120.0 0.8 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 120.0 121.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 135.5 136.3 0.8 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 136.3 137.1 0.8 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 137.1 137.6 0.5 0.3 0.0 SDDSC039 138.7 139.7 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 145.7 146.0 0.3 0.0 0.1 SDDSC039 157.0 157.9 0.9 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 157.9 158.9 0.9 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 166.0 166.8 0.8 0.3 0.0 SDDSC039 166.8 167.2 0.4 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 169.6 171.0 1.4 0.4 0.0 SDDSC039 171.0 172.0 1.0 0.5 0.0 SDDSC039 172.0 173.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 173.0 174.0 1.0 2.3 1.0 SDDSC039 174.0 174.4 0.4 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 174.4 174.7 0.3 1.1 0.0 SDDSC039 174.7 175.1 0.4 0.8 0.0 SDDSC039 175.1 176.0 0.9 1.9 0.2 SDDSC039 176.0 177.0 1.0 0.3 0.0 SDDSC039 177.0 177.7 0.7 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 177.7 178.0 0.3 0.3 0.0 SDDSC039 178.0 179.0 1.0 0.4 0.0 SDDSC039 180.0 180.8 0.8 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 180.8 181.0 0.3 2.3 0.6 SDDSC039 181.0 181.8 0.8 0.8 0.0 SDDSC039 181.8 183.0 1.3 2.6 0.1 SDDSC039 183.0 184.0 1.0 3.5 0.0 SDDSC039 184.0 185.0 1.0 0.6 0.0 SDDSC039 186.0 187.0 1.0 1.4 0.0 SDDSC039 194.0 194.8 0.8 0.9 0.1 SDDSC039 194.8 195.1 0.3 2.2 3.0 SDDSC039 195.1 196.0 0.9 0.5 0.0 SDDSC039 196.0 197.0 1.0 0.3 0.0 SDDSC039 197.0 197.6 0.6 1.1 0.6 SDDSC039 197.6 198.0 0.4 21.2 3.5 SDDSC039 198.0 198.6 0.6 18.7 1.7 SDDSC039 198.6 199.3 0.8 1.2 0.1 SDDSC039 199.3 200.0 0.7 14.8 5.7 SDDSC039 200.0 200.8 0.8 15.0 4.1 SDDSC039 200.8 201.1 0.3 3.0 0.1 SDDSC039 201.1 202.0 0.9 2.3 0.1 SDDSC039 202.0 202.7 0.7 84.0 13.8 SDDSC039 202.7 203.4 0.7 2.7 0.2 SDDSC039 203.4 203.9 0.4 42.9 25.1 SDDSC039 203.9 204.6 0.8 2.0 0.2 SDDSC039 204.6 205.6 1.0 0.7 0.0 SDDSC039 205.6 206.0 0.4 0.9 0.0 SDDSC039 206.0 207.0 1.0 0.4 0.0 SDDSC039 207.0 208.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 211.4 212.0 0.6 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 212.0 212.4 0.4 2.6 0.2 SDDSC039 212.4 213.0 0.6 0.2 0.0 SDDSC039 223.9 224.4 0.5 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 278.1 279.0 0.9 0.1 0.0 SDDSC039 296.0 296.8 0.8 0.1 2.9 SDDSC039 299.0 299.6 0.6 0.1 0.1 SDDSC038 16.0 17.0 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 17.0 18.0 1.0 0.7 0.0 SDDSC038 24.0 25.0 1.0 1.7 0.0 SDDSC038 25.0 25.6 0.6 0.8 0.0 SDDSC038 36.0 37.0 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 51.8 52.3 0.5 0.8 0.1 SDDSC038 52.3 52.8 0.5 1.6 0.8 SDDSC038 52.8 53.9 1.1 2.1 0.1 SDDSC038 55.0 56.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 82.0 83.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 92.0 92.9 0.9 0.4 0.0 SDDSC038 92.9 93.7 0.8 0.7 0.0 SDDSC038 93.7 94.7 1.0 0.4 0.0 SDDSC038 94.7 95.7 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 95.7 96.3 0.6 0.8 0.0 SDDSC038 96.3 97.0 0.7 3.0 0.0 SDDSC038 97.0 98.0 1.0 3.9 0.4 SDDSC038 98.0 98.5 0.5 0.9 0.1 SDDSC038 98.5 99.3 0.8 0.3 13.3 SDDSC038 99.3 100.0 0.7 0.0 0.1 SDDSC038 101.0 101.7 0.7 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 101.7 102.3 0.6 0.1 7.7 SDDSC038 102.3 103.0 0.7 0.0 3.5 SDDSC038 104.0 105.0 1.0 0.9 0.1 SDDSC038 105.0 106.0 1.0 1.1 0.4 SDDSC038 106.0 107.0 1.0 1.6 0.8 SDDSC038 107.0 107.8 0.8 0.5 0.7 SDDSC038 107.8 108.7 0.9 1.7 0.3 SDDSC038 108.7 109.6 0.9 1.4 0.0 SDDSC038 109.6 110.6 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 110.6 111.6 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 113.6 113.9 0.3 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 113.9 114.8 0.9 0.5 0.0 SDDSC038 114.8 115.7 0.9 0.7 0.0 SDDSC038 115.7 116.7 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 116.7 117.4 0.7 0.9 0.0 SDDSC038 117.4 118.0 0.6 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 118.0 118.7 0.7 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 120.7 122.0 1.3 0.6 0.0 SDDSC038 122.0 123.0 1.0 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 123.0 124.0 1.0 0.3 0.0 SDDSC038 126.0 127.0 1.0 0.3 0.0 SDDSC038 130.0 131.0 1.0 2.3 0.0 SDDSC038 141.0 142.0 1.0 0.3 0.0 SDDSC038 142.0 142.4 0.4 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 142.4 142.7 0.3 3.6 15.5 SDDSC038 142.7 143.0 0.3 0.6 0.1 SDDSC038 143.9 144.7 0.8 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 144.7 145.3 0.6 0.3 0.0 SDDSC038 145.3 146.0 0.7 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 147.0 148.0 1.0 0.4 0.1 SDDSC038 148.0 148.3 0.3 11.4 4.0 SDDSC038 148.3 148.8 0.5 0.2 0.6 SDDSC038 148.8 149.6 0.8 0.1 0.7 SDDSC038 149.6 150.1 0.5 18.5 0.4 SDDSC038 150.1 150.6 0.5 16.7 7.5 SDDSC038 150.6 151.1 0.5 24.6 3.3 SDDSC038 151.1 151.5 0.4 5.6 1.2 SDDSC038 151.5 151.9 0.4 2.2 1.2 SDDSC038 151.9 152.3 0.4 4.7 1.5 SDDSC038 152.3 152.8 0.5 2.4 0.2 SDDSC038 152.8 153.6 0.8 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 154.3 155.0 0.7 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 155.0 155.8 0.8 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 155.8 156.3 0.5 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 170.9 171.6 0.7 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 171.6 172.5 0.9 1.0 0.0 SDDSC038 172.9 173.3 0.4 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 195.8 196.2 0.4 19.6 0.7 SDDSC038 196.2 197.2 1.0 9.6 0.0 SDDSC038 197.2 198.0 0.8 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 209.2 210.2 1.0 0.0 0.2 SDDSC038 212.1 212.7 0.6 2.0 0.2 SDDSC038 214.5 214.9 0.4 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 214.9 215.8 0.9 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 215.8 216.5 0.7 1.1 0.0 SDDSC038 216.5 216.8 0.3 0.6 0.4 SDDSC038 216.8 217.8 1.0 0.4 0.0 SDDSC038 217.8 218.4 0.6 1.7 3.0 SDDSC038 219.0 220.2 1.2 0.3 0.0 SDDSC038 221.0 221.6 0.6 0.7 0.0 SDDSC038 221.6 222.6 1.0 0.4 0.3 SDDSC038 223.0 224.0 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 224.0 224.3 0.3 0.3 0.0 SDDSC038 224.3 224.6 0.3 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 224.6 225.1 0.5 2.4 0.7 SDDSC038 226.5 227.1 0.6 0.4 0.0 SDDSC038 227.1 227.9 0.8 1.5 0.0 SDDSC038 228.4 228.6 0.2 2.6 0.0 SDDSC038 228.6 228.9 0.3 1.7 0.0 SDDSC038 229.7 230.0 0.3 0.8 0.0 SDDSC038 232.0 233.0 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 233.0 234.0 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 234.0 235.0 1.0 0.9 0.3 SDDSC038 235.0 235.5 0.5 7.7 2.7 SDDSC038 235.5 236.0 0.5 7.4 2.3 SDDSC038 236.0 236.3 0.3 1.1 0.2 SDDSC038 236.3 236.9 0.6 2.9 3.0 SDDSC038 236.9 238.0 1.1 1.0 0.9 SDDSC038 238.0 238.2 0.2 8.2 1.2 SDDSC038 238.2 239.1 0.9 1.3 0.0 SDDSC038 239.1 240.0 0.9 0.7 0.0 SDDSC038 240.0 240.6 0.6 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 240.6 240.9 0.3 3.0 1.8 SDDSC038 240.9 242.0 1.1 0.8 0.2 SDDSC038 242.0 242.3 0.3 1.8 0.9 SDDSC038 242.3 242.9 0.6 0.6 0.0 SDDSC038 242.9 243.5 0.6 0.4 0.0 SDDSC038 243.5 244.0 0.5 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 244.0 244.9 0.9 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 287.0 288.0 1.0 0.3 0.0 SDDSC038 294.7 295.1 0.4 0.3 0.0 SDDSC038 305.5 306.3 0.8 0.0 1.0 SDDSC038 306.3 306.9 0.6 0.9 17.4 SDDSC038 306.9 307.8 0.9 0.1 0.5 SDDSC038 307.8 308.7 0.9 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 323.0 323.7 0.7 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 323.7 323.9 0.2 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 323.9 324.8 0.9 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 324.8 325.6 0.8 0.1 0.0 SDDSC038 379.0 380.0 1.0 0.2 0.0 SDDSC038 380.0 381.0 1.0 0.7 0.1 SDDSC038 381.0 382.0 1.0 0.7 0.0 SDDSC038 382.0 383.0 1.0 0.3 0.0

SOURCE: Mawson Gold Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711433/Mawsons-Subsidiary-SXG-Drills-420-m-48-gt-AuEqat-Sunday-Creek-Victoria-Australia
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Gratomic Inc. ("Gratomic", "GRAT," or the "Company") (TSXV:GRAT) (OTCQX:CBULF) (FSE:CB82) announces that initial earth moving activities will commence on the 15th of August at its Flagship Aukam project in Namibia. Benching typically consists of successively cutting berms alongside the mountain edge, which will steadily expose underground material at the same time ensuring the stability of the mountain structure. This process allows for the collection of graphite in stages as the plaforms are constructed on the Aukam mountain.

The Company estimates this phase of the program will take around 6 months and is projected to move an approximated 20,000 tonnes of material from the mountain to be stockpiled at the ROM (Run of Mine) pad of its Aukam processing facility.

Arno Brand, President & CEO, states, "It has been a labour intensive drilling campaign, which has solidified our confidence in the Aukam asset. The results of which have allowed us to intricately plan next steps, leading to the commencement of the benching program that is slated to begin on the 15th of this month."

"This benching program sets a milestone for the Aukam site, as this is the first time we implement mining practices to bring product to the plant stockpile," says Armando Farhate COO & Head of Graphite Marketing & Sales.

Gratomic wishes to emphasize that no Preliminary Economic Analysis, Preliminary Feasibility Study or Feasibility Study has been completed to support any level of production. In fact, no mineral resources let alone mineral reserves demonstrating economic viability and technical feasibility, have been delineated on the Aukam property.

The Company is working towards completing a Feasibility Study (FS) on the Aukam Processing plant. The study, its recommendations, and their subsequent implementation, will provide conclusions and recommendation at a FS level of comfort relating to the scale up of the existing processing plant to a commercial scale processing facility capable of producing the desired concentrate grades and production rates.

Gratomic wishes to emphasize that the supply of graphite is conditional on Gratomic being able to bring the Aukam project into a production phase, and for any graphite being produced to meet certain technical and mineralization requirements.

Risk Factors

No mineral resources, let alone mineral reserves demonstrating economic viability and technical feasibility, have been delineated on the Aukam Property. The Company is not in a position to demonstrate or disclose any capital and/or operating costs that may be associated with the processing plant until the FS (Feasibility Study) is completed.

The Company advises that it has not based its production decision on even the existence of mineral resources let alone on a Preliminary Feasibility Study or FS of mineral reserves, demonstrating economic and technical viability, and, as a result, there may be an increased uncertainty of achieving any particular level of recovery of minerals or the cost of such recovery, including increased risks associated with developing a commercially mineable deposit.

Historically, such projects have a much higher risk of economic and technical failure. There is no guarantee that production will begin as anticipated or at all or that anticipated production costs will be achieved.

Failure to commence production would have a material adverse impact on the Company's ability to generate revenue and cash flow to fund operations. Failure to achieve the anticipated production costs would have a material adverse impact on the Company's cash flow and future profitability.

About Gratomic

Gratomic is a multinational company with projects in Namibia, Brazil, and Canada. The Company is focused on becoming a leading global graphite supplier and aims to secure a strong position in the EV battery supply chain. With the continued development of its flagship Aukam project and further exploration on the Company's Capim Grosso property, Gratomic sets itself apart by seeking out unique top-quality assets around the world. True to its roots, the Company will continue to explore graphite opportunities displaying potential for development. The Company ranked third place in the top 10 preforming mining stocks on the 2022 TSX Venture 50.

Large quantities of high-quality vein graphite have been shipped for testing to confirm its viability as an anode material. Gratomic is confident that the test results will provide a unique competitive advantage in its desired target markets. The Company will continue to update the public on the status of these tests and will provide results as soon as they become available.

The Company has formed a collaboration agreement with Forge Nano. With its patented ALD coating, this cooperation with Forge Nano is a key element to support Gratomic's strategies towards the value-added phases of production of graphite for anode applications, namely micronization, spheronization and coating, making Gratomic graphite a preferred choice for use in lithium-ion batteries.

For more information: visit the website at www.gratomic.ca or contact:

Arno Brand at abrand@gratomic.ca or (416) 561- 4095

Subscribe at gratomic.ca/contact/ to be added to our email list.

For Marketing and Media information, please email: info@gratomic.ca

"Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release."

Forward Looking Statements:

This news release contains forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements and by those made in our filings with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com)

SOURCE: Gratomic Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711447/Gratomic-Announces-Initiation-of-Benching-Program-at-its-Aukam-Project-in-Namibia
BOCA RATON, Fla., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MiX Telematics (JSE: MIX, NYSE: MIXT), a leading global provider of connected fleet and mobile asset management solutions, is collaborating with Hino Trucks' Edge to become an authorized Hino data services partner.

This collaboration will provide MiX customers in North America that operate Hino trucks with rich data sets, informing intelligent decision-making regarding vehicle maintenance, safety, efficiency, and compliance. It also removes the need for the installation of aftermarket hardware in associated vehicles.

"The future of commercial vehicle telematics lies in successful OEM integrations," says Charles Tasker, Chief Operating Officer at MiX Telematics. "MiX is rapidly accelerating working with leading vehicle OEMs to ensure clients can easily access rich data needed to optimize fleet and driver safety."

Whilst OEM telematics won't replace all telematics hardware capabilities, there is an increasing demand for telematics software that's augmented by additional capabilities and robust data analytics.

Hino Trucks' Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Glenn Ellis had to say, "We are pleased to add MiX Telematics as a data service partner. Our Edge telematics open platform allows partners like MiX Telematics to access core vehicle data to enhance the operational and actionable analytics they provide their customers through the MiX Telematics platform."

About MiX Telematics

MiX Telematics is a leading global provider of fleet and mobile asset management solutions delivered as SaaS to 838,300 global subscribers spanning more than 120 countries. The company's products and services provide enterprise fleets, small fleets and consumers with solutions for efficiency, safety, compliance and security. MiX Telematics was founded in 1996 and has offices in South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uganda, Brazil, Mexico, Australia and the United Arab Emirates as well as a network of more than 130 fleet partners worldwide. MiX Telematics shares are publicly traded on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE: MIX) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MIXT). For more information, visit www.mixtelematics.com .

For further information
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / The Power Play by The Market Herald has announced the release of new interviews with Defense Metals and Calima Energy on their latest news.

The Power Play by The Market Herald provides investors with a quick snapshot of what they need to know about the company's latest press release through exclusive insights and interviews with company executives.

Defense Metals (TSXV:DEFN) updates diamond drill program at Wicheeda

Defense Metals Corp. (DEFN) has updated the diamond drilling at its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element (REE) deposit. The 2022 resource infill and exploration diamond drill campaign is now complete and pit slope geotechnical drilling is underway. CEO Craig Taylor sat down with Sabrina Cuthbert to discuss the update.

For the full interview with Craig Taylor and to learn more about Defense Metals, click here

Calima Energy (ASX:CE1) offers sustainable production in a strong price environment

Calima Energy (CE1) is an oil and gas company focused on growth, cash flow and ESG practices. The company took in record gross revenue of A$37 million in Q2 2022, up 20 per cent from the prior quarter. CEO Jordan Kevol sat down with Daniella Atkinson to discuss the company's recent performance and its plans for the future.

For the full interview with Jordan Kevol and to learn more about Calima Energy, click here



Interviews for The Power Play by The Market Herald are released daily. To learn more about the companies featured in The Power Play or to explore our other interviews visit The Power Play by The Market Herald.

About The Market Herald

The Market Herald Canada is the leading source of authoritative breaking stock market news for self-directed investors. Our team of Canadian markets reporters, editors and technologists covers the entire listed company universe in Canada. We cover over 3,985 businesses, their people, their investors, and their customers. We write the stories that move the Canadian capital markets.

DISCLAIMER: Report Card Canada Media Ltd. ("Report Card") is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market Herald Limited, an Australian company ("Market Herald"). Report Card is not an advisory service, and does not offer, buy, sell, or provide any other rating, analysis or opinion on the securities we discuss. We are retained and compensated by the companies that we provide information on to assist them with making information available to the public. All information available on themarketherald.ca and/or this press release should be considered as commercial advertisement and not an endorsement, offer or recommendation to buy or sell securities. Report Card is not registered with any financial or securities regulatory authority in any province or territory of Canada, will not be performing any registerable activity as defined by the applicable regulatory bodies and do not provide nor claim to provide investment advice or recommendations to any visitor of this site or readers of any content on or originating from themarketherald.ca. Market Herald and/or its affiliates and/or their respective officers, directors or employees may from time to time acquire, hold or sell securities and/or commodities and/or commodity futures contracts in certain underlying companies mentioned in this site and which may also be clients of Market Herald's affiliates. In such instances, Market Herald and/or its affiliates and/or their respective officers, directors or employees will use all reasonable efforts to avoid engaging in activities that would lead to conflicts of interest and Market Herald and/or its affiliates will use all reasonable efforts to comply with conflicts of interest disclosures and regulations to minimize any conflict. All the information on this document and/or the website - themarketherald.ca - is published in good faith and for general information purpose only. Report Card does not make any warranties about the completeness, reliability, and accuracy of this information. Any action you take upon the information you find on this document and/or website (themarketherald.ca) is strictly at your own risk. Report Card will not be liable for any losses and/or damages in connection with the use of our website. From our website, you can visit other websites by following hyperlinks to such external sites. While we strive to provide only quality links to useful and ethical websites, we have no control over the content and nature of these sites. These links to other websites do not imply a recommendation for all the content found on these sites. Site owners and content may change without notice and may occur before we have the opportunity to remove a link which may have gone 'bad'. Please be also aware that when you leave our website, other sites may have different privacy policies and terms which are beyond our control. Please be sure to check the Privacy Policies of these sites as well as their "Terms of Service" before engaging in any business or uploading any information.

CONTACT:

The Market Herald

Charity Robertson

charity.robertson@themarketherald.ca

themarketherald.ca

SOURCE: The Market Herald

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711466/The-Power-Play-by-The-Market-Herald-Releases-New-Interviews-with-Defense-Metals-and-Calima-Energy
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Tenet Fintech Group Inc. (CSE: PKK) (OTC PINK: PKKFF) ("Tenet" or the "Company"), an innovative AI service provider and operator of the Business Hub, at the request of IIROC, wishes to confirm that the Company's management is unaware of any material change in the Company's operations that would account for the recent increase in market activity.

About Tenet Fintech Group Inc.:

Tenet Fintech Group Inc. is the parent company of a group of innovative financial technology (Fintech) and artificial intelligence (AI) companies. All references to Tenet in this news release, unless explicitly specified, includes Tenet and all its subsidiaries. Tenet's subsidiaries provide various analytics and AI-based services to businesses and financial institutions through the Business Hub, a global ecosystem where analytics and AI are used to create opportunities and facilitate B2B transactions among its members. Please visit our website at: http://www.tenetfintech.com

Neither Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For more information, please contact:

CHF Capital Markets

Cathy Hume, CEO

416-868-1079 ext.: 251

cathy@chfir.com

MZ Group - MZ North America

Mark Schwalenberg, CFA

312-261-6430

mark.schwalenberg@mzgroup.us

Follow Tenet Fintech Group Inc. on social media:

Twitter: @Tenetfintech

Facebook: @Tenetfintech

LinkedIn: Tenet Fintech

YouTube: Tenet Fintech

Forward-Looking Statements / Information:

This news release may include certain forward-looking information, including statements relating to business and operating strategies, plans and prospects for revenue growth and listing plans, using words including "anticipate", "believe", "could", "expect", "intend", "may", "plan", "potential", "project", "seek", "should", "will", "would" and similar expressions, which are intended to identify a number of these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information reflects current views with respect to current events and is not a guarantee of future performance and is subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking information contained in this news release, except as may be required by applicable laws, rules and regulations. Readers are urged to consider these factors carefully in evaluating any forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133303
LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Gabriel Resources Ltd. (TSXV:GBU - "Gabriel" or the "Company") announces the publication of its Second Quarter Financial statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis Report for the period ended June 30, 2022.

Summary

Gabriel and its wholly-owned indirect subsidiary, Gabriel Resources (Jersey) Ltd. (together " Claimants "), remain focused on concluding their arbitration case against the Romanian State (" Respondent ") under the rules of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (" ICSID "), part of the World Bank (" ICSID Arbitration "). The ICSID Arbitration case is well advanced.

"), remain focused on concluding their arbitration case against the Romanian State (" ") under the rules of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (" "), part of the World Bank (" "). The ICSID Arbitration case is well advanced. In April 2022, the arbitral tribunal (" Tribunal ") issued a limited list of further questions to the Claimants and Respondent (together " Parties "), with the purpose of having a complete record when it concludes its deliberations on the case as a whole and prepares the arbitral award (" Award "). The Claimants submission responding to the Tribunal's questions was filed on June 14 and the Respondent submission is due to be filed on September 19, 2022.

") issued a limited list of further questions to the Claimants and Respondent (together " "), with the purpose of having a complete record when it concludes its deliberations on the case as a whole and prepares the arbitral award (" "). The Claimants submission responding to the Tribunal's questions was filed on June 14 and the Respondent submission is due to be filed on September 19, 2022. Notwithstanding the Tribunal's statement in December 2021 that it was deliberating and would render an Award in 2022, it has reserved the right to introduce further procedural steps and there is no specified timeframe in the ICSID Rules applicable to this case in which an Award is to be made by the Tribunal.

In November 2021, an agreement was concluded for the sale of the remaining mining equipment owned by the Gabriel group (" Group ") for US$1.75 million (approx. $2.2 million) and instalments totaling US$1.375 million have been received to the end of the second quarter of 2022, with additional monthly instalments due until September 2022.

") for US$1.75 million (approx. $2.2 million) and instalments totaling US$1.375 million have been received to the end of the second quarter of 2022, with additional monthly instalments due until September 2022. In February 2022, an agreement was concluded for the sale of certain land and buildings owned by the Group in Alba Iulia, Romania for EUR 1 million (approx. $1.45 million), and the final payment of EUR 250,000 was received on April 19, 2022.

The net loss for the second quarter of 2022 was $2.8 million (Q1 2022 $0.9 million).

On June 29, 2022, the Company announced that it had closed a non-brokered private placement (the " 2022 Private Placement ") of 33,105,117 common shares of the Company (" Common Shares ") at a price of $0.215 each for gross proceeds of US$5.6 million (approximately $7.1 million).

") of 33,105,117 common shares of the Company (" ") at a price of $0.215 each for gross proceeds of US$5.6 million (approximately $7.1 million). As at June 30, 2022, the Company held $8.5 million of cash and cash equivalents (Q1 2022 $2.3 million). The Company believes that it has sufficient funding necessary to cover its planned activities through to April 2023 and will need to raise additional financing thereafter to fund ICSID Arbitration costs and working capital requirements.

Dragos Tanase, Gabriel's President and Chief Executive Officer, stated:

"We have filed what we hope will be our last substantive written submission to be made in the ICSID Arbitration and our goal is to continue to assist the Tribunal where we can to meet its previous indication of the issue of its Award within 2022. We remain extremely thankful for the continued support and funding provided by our shareholders as the ICSID Arbitration process continues."

Further information and commentary on the results in the second quarter of 2022 is given below. The Company has filed its Unaudited Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for Q2 2022 and related Management's Discussion & Analysis on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and each is available for review on the Company's website at www.gabrielresources.com.

For information on this press release, please contact:

Dragos Tanase President & CEO Phone: +40 730 399 019 dt@gabrielresources.com Richard Brown Chief Financial Officer Mobile: +44 7748 760276 richard.brown@gabrielresources.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Further Information

Status of the ICSID Arbitration

The ICSID Arbitration seeks compensation for all of the loss and damage suffered by the Claimants resulting from the Respondent's wrongful conduct and its breaches of the protections afforded by certain treaties for the promotion and protection of foreign investment to which Romania is a party, including against expropriation, unfair and inequitable treatment, discrimination and other unlawful treatment in respect of the Ro?ia Montana gold and silver project, together with the gold, silver and porphyry copper deposits defined in the Bucium concession area (" Projects ") and related licenses.

") and related licenses. In late December 2021, the President of the Tribunal stated that the Tribunal was currently deliberating and would render an Award in 2022.

In January 2022, the Tribunal further confirmed to the Parties that the Tribunal had been thoroughly reviewing the case file and deliberating over the past months and would continue to do so.

In April 2022, the Tribunal informed the Parties that it had held numerous deliberations in order to reach a decision on the claims and defenses in the matter and had concluded that there were certain aspects of the case for which it required further information. Therefore, the Tribunal issued a limited list of further questions to the Parties, with the purpose of having a complete record when it concludes its deliberations on the case as a whole and prepares the Award. The Claimants filed a submission responding to the questions on June 14, 2022 with a submission required to be filed by September 19, 2022 for the Respondent. The Tribunal also reserved the possibility of an additional round of submissions by the Parties on the questions if it considered the same to be necessary following its review of the first round of pleadings.

Notwithstanding the Tribunal's statement that it would render an Award in 2022, there is no specified timeframe in the ICSID Rules applicable to this case in which an Award is to be made by the Tribunal. Furthermore, an additional procedural step may be required by the Tribunal prior to the issuance of an Award. Any Award may be subject to a request for annulment (albeit such annulment application can only be made on very limited grounds under the ICSID Rules).

UNESCO World Heritage

On July 27, 2021, the Rosia Montana mining landscape was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and List of World Heritage in Danger (" Inscription "). The Inscription is fundamentally incompatible with the rights the Group acquired to develop the Project and the continued existence of an exploitation mining license for the Project area and materially undermines the possibility of an amicable resolution of the dispute with Romania that would allow for the development of the Project.

"). The Inscription is fundamentally incompatible with the rights the Group acquired to develop the Project and the continued existence of an exploitation mining license for the Project area and materially undermines the possibility of an amicable resolution of the dispute with Romania that would allow for the development of the Project. Romania's application to UNESCO and the subsequent Inscription are fundamentally at odds with Romania's obligations under its investment treaties in relation to Gabriel's investments and these acts, together with other measures taken by Romania, further evidence Romania's political repudiation of the Project and its joint venture with Gabriel.

Liquidity

Cash and cash equivalents at June 30, 2022 were $8.5 million.

The Company's average monthly cash usage during Q2 2022 was $0.3 million (Q1 2022: $0.3 million), primarily reflecting the consistent level of ongoing operational cost and limited ICSID Arbitration activity quarter on quarter, offset by cash receipts from the sale of land at Recea and long lead-time equipment noted below.

At June 30, 2022, accruals for costs in respect of the ICSID Arbitration amounted to $4.4 million (Q1 2022: $3.7 million), reflecting the continuation of a fee agreement in respect of the deferred payment of certain ICSID Arbitration costs until an Award is issued and the costs of the submission filed in the quarter.

Sale of Long Lead Time Equipment ("LLTE")

As previously announced, on November 1, 2021 Ro?ia Montana Gold Corporation S.A. ("RMGC"), Gabriel's 80.69%-owned Romanian subsidiary, concluded an agreement with a buyer for an instalment-based purchase of the remaining LLTE for aggregate gross proceeds of US$1.75 million (approx. $2.2 million). Aggregate payments of US$1.375 million (approx.$1.75 million) were received prior to June 30, 2022 together with an aggregate contribution to storage costs of US$90,000 (approx. $115,000) payable monthly from April 2022 in accordance with the sale and purchase agreement. Further instalments and storage cost contributions remain due in the period to September 2022 and the LLTE will remain on the balance sheet of the Company until the final payment is made, when ownership and title to the assets will pass to the purchaser.

Sale of Land at Recea

On February 25, 2022, RMGC concluded a definitive sale and purchase agreement for the sale of 93 plots of land covering a total area of 68,229 sqm and a small number of buildings owned by RMGC as part of the housing construction undertaken in the Recea resettlement neighborhood of Alba Iulia ("Recea Land"). The agreed sale price was EUR 1,000,000 (approx. $1.45 million) and the final instalment of EUR 250,000 was received on April 19, 2022.

Capital Resources

Private Placement

On June 29, 2022, the Company announced it had closed the 2022 Private Placement of 33,105,117 Common Shares at a price of $0.215 each for gross proceeds of US$ 5.6 million (approximately $ 7.1 million). The Company will use the proceeds from the 2022 Private Placement to finance the ongoing costs of the ICSID Arbitration and for general working capital requirements.

Future Financing Requirements

The Company believes that, taking into account the fee agreement in respect of the deferral of payment of certain ICSID Arbitration costs and the proceeds receivable from the sale of the LLTE, it has sufficient cash to enable the Group to fund general working capital requirements together with the material estimated costs associated with the Company advancing the ICSID Arbitration through to April 2023.

At that time Gabriel may still await an Award from the Tribunal, as there can be no assurances that the ICSID Arbitration will advance in a customary or predictable manner or be completed or settled within any specific or reasonable period of time and further procedural steps may be required to be completed prior to the issuance of an Award.

Accordingly, post April 2023 the Group will require further funding in order to pursue the long-term activities required to see the ICSID Arbitration through to its conclusion (which may include, as appropriate, costs of any potential annulment proceedings and/or costs of enforcement of any Award) and for general working capital purposes, including to preserve its remaining assets, including the exploitation license for the Rosia Montana Project (" License ") and associated rights and permits.

") and associated rights and permits. Notwithstanding the Company's recent and historic funding, there is a risk that sufficient additional financing may not be available to the Company on acceptable terms, or at all. The market and timing of such additional financing could also be adversely affected by the effects of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, discussed below.

Financial Performance

Operating loss for the second quarter of 2022 was $2.8 million, some $0.5 million lower than the corresponding period in 2021 primarily arising from (i) $0.2 million lower costs related to the ongoing ICSID Arbitration, reflecting the more limited activities in the Q2 2022, whereas comparable costs in 2021 reflect certain costs related to the preparation of Post-Hearing Briefs; (ii) $0.1m lower LLTE storage costs; and (iii) $0.3 million lower costs related to corporate, general and administration; offset by a $0.1m increase in share-based compensation.

The net loss for the second quarter of 2022 was also $2.8 million, a decrease of $3.3 million from a loss of $6.1 million in the corresponding period in 2021, primarily reflecting the $0.5 million lower operating loss together with $2.7 million finance costs incurred in respect of convertible notes in 2021 not repeated following their repayment in June 2021.

Impact of Coronavirus

With respect to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Gabriel continues to consider carefully its impact, noting the continuing disruption to normal activities and the uncertainty over the duration of this disruption. The highest priority of the Board of Directors and Management is the health, safety and welfare of the Group's employees and contractors.

Gabriel recognizes that the situation is extremely fluid and is monitoring the relevant recommendations and restrictions on work practices and travel. At this time, these recommendations and restrictions do not significantly impact Gabriel's ability to continue the ICSID Arbitration process or conduct the limited operations in Romania, nor has there been a significant impact on the Group's results or operations through 2022 to date.

Gabriel will react to circumstances as they arise and will make the necessary adjustments to the work processes required. Should any material disruption from COVID-19 affect the Group for an extended duration, Gabriel will review certain planned activities in Romania and take remedial actions if it is determined to be necessary or prudent to do so.

Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Given, amongst other things, the geographical proximity of Romania to Ukraine, Gabriel is closely monitoring the situation in Ukraine with concern for all those who are impacted by the unfolding conflict and humanitarian crisis.

At this time, Gabriel has not experienced any material disruption to its operations, including its limited activities in Romania, as a consequence of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Group will continue to operate its business in accordance with the circumstances that arise, which currently remain highly uncertain.

About Gabriel

Gabriel is a Canadian resource company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company's principal business had been the exploration and development of the Ro?ia Montana gold and silver project in Romania. The Rosia Montana Project, one of the largest undeveloped gold deposits in Europe, is situated in the South Apuseni Mountains of Transylvania, Romania, an historic and prolific mining district that since pre-Roman times has been mined intermittently for over 2,000 years. The exploitation license for the Rosia Montana Project is held by Ro?ia Montana Gold Corporation S.A., a Romanian company in which Gabriel owns an 80.69% equity interest, with the 19.31% balance held by Minvest Ro?ia Montana S.A., a Romanian state-owned mining company.

Upon obtaining the License in June 1999, the Group focused substantially all of their management and financial resources on the exploration, feasibility and subsequent development of the Rosia Montana Project. Despite the Company's fulfilment of its legal obligations and its development of the Rosia Montana Project as a high-quality, sustainable and environmentally-responsible mining project, using best available techniques, Romania has unlawfully blocked and prevented implementation of the Rosia Montana Project without due process and without compensation. Accordingly, the Company's current core focus is the ICSID Arbitration. For more information please visit the Company's website at www.gabrielresources.com.

Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking information" (also referred to as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of the Company's operating environment. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements.

In this press release, forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies that may cause the Company's actual financial results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied herein.

Some of the material factors or assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the uncertainties associated with: the ICSID Arbitration, actions by the Romanian Government, conditions or events impacting the Company's ability to fund its operations (including but not limited to the completion of further funding noted above) or service its debt, exploration, development and operation of mining properties and the overall impact of misjudgments made in good faith in the course of preparing forward-looking information.

Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors including those set out below, that may never materialize, prove incorrect or materialize other than as currently contemplated which could cause the Company's results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "expects", "is expected", "is of the view", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", "potential", "possible" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events, conditions or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Numerous factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements, including without limitation:

the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19) may affect the Company's operations and/or the anticipated timeline for the ICSID Arbitration;

the geo-political situation and the resulting economic developments arising from the unfolding conflict and humanitarian crisis as a consequence of the Russia-Ukraine conflict;

the duration, costs, process and outcome of the ICSID Arbitration;

Romania's actions following the inscription of the "Rosia Montana Mining Landscape" as a UNESCO World Heritage site;

changes in the liquidity and capital resources of Gabriel, and/or the group of companies of which it is directly or indirectly parent;

access to funding to support the Group's continued ICSID Arbitration and/or operating activities in the future;

equity dilution resulting from the conversion or exercise of new or existing securities in part or in whole to Common Shares;

the ability of the Company to maintain a continued listing on the TSX Venture Exchange or any regulated public market for trading securities;

the impact on business strategy and its implementation in Romania of: any allegations of historic acts of corruption, uncertain fiscal investigations; uncertain legal enforcement both for and against the Group and political and social instability;

regulatory, political and economic risks associated with operating in a foreign jurisdiction including changes in laws, governments and legal regimes and interpretation of existing and future fiscal and other legislation;

global economic and financial market conditions;

volatility of currency exchange rates; and

the availability and continued participation in operational or other matters pertaining to the Group of certain key employees and consultants.

This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company's forward-looking statements.

Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and investors should not infer that there has been no change in the Company's affairs since the date of this press release that would warrant any modification of any forward-looking statement made in this document, other documents periodically filed with or furnished to the relevant securities regulators or documents presented on the Company's website. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements or the foregoing list of assumptions or factors, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, subject to the Company's disclosure obligations under applicable Canadian securities regulations. Investors are urged to read the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulatory agencies which can be viewed online at www.sedar.com.

SOURCE: Gabriel Resources Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/711486/Gabriel-Resources-Ltd-2022-Second-Quarter-Results
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Micron said on Tuesday that it would invest $40 billion between now and 2030 to manufacture chips in the U.S. The investment is supported by grants and credits from the Chips and Science Act, a bipartisan bill that was signed in law last week. Micron said it will create up to 40,000 jobs in the U.S., including 5,000 highly paid technical and operational roles. The company said the additional capacity will bring the U.S. market share of memory chip production from 2-10 percent. Micron expects to begin production in the second half of the decade. The specific plans for the investment will come in weeks, Micron added. The Chips and Science Act aims to revitalize domestic chip manufacturing and boost U.S. competitiveness with China. The U.S. produces about 10 percent of the world's supply of semiconductors, but otherwise relies on East Asia for 75 percent of the global production. The Chips Act also pushed Qualcomm to commit to spending an additional $4.2 billion on chips from GlobalFoundries' New York facility. Qualcomm, also announced plans to increase semiconductor production in the U.S. by 50 percent over the next five years. Copyright(c) 2022 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Butterfly entered into a definitive agreement with funds managed by affiliates of the Apollo Funds to acquire QDOBA, a San Diego, California-based franchisor in the Mexican fast casual restaurant sector in North America, via a merger transaction with Modern Restaurant Concepts, a fast casual restaurant platform consisting of two brands: Modern Market Eatery and Lemonade.

As part of the transaction, King Street Capital Management, a global alternative asset manager, is investing alongside Butterfly.

Terms of the transaction  which is expected to close in Q3 2022  were not disclosed.

QDOBA is a Mexican fast casual franchisor known for its queso and hand-made guacamole, which operates nearly 750 units across North America, about 450 of which are franchised.

Upon closing of the merger transaction, the Modern Restaurant Concepts platform will comprise approximately 800 units touching nearly every U.S. state and the combined restaurants will employ nearly 18,000 systemwide. Each of the QDOBA, Modern Market and Lemonade brands will continue to accelerate system growth through company-operated, franchised, and licensed openings. MRC leadership believes that there exists growth potential for more than 3,000 total units across brands.

Concurrent with the announcement of the merger transaction, MRC today is also announcing that Modern Market has recently signed a multi-unit franchise development agreement with a leading national franchisee. The franchise development agreement is Modern Markets first and will bring over 40 new Modern Markets to 7 states. Earlier this year QDOBA announced its largest multi-unit franchise development agreement in company history, and in aggregate has developed a committed pipeline of approximately 300 franchised units to be opened in the next five years.

Keith Guilbault, current QDOBA CEO, will continue to lead QDOBA as Co-CEO of MRC along with Rob McColgan, current MRC CEO, who will continue to lead the Modern Market and Lemonade brands as Co-CEO of MRC.

Modern Restaurant Concepts is one of the largest fast casual restaurant platforms in North America with nearly 800 units across three brands, QDOBA, Modern Market Eatery and Lemonade. The system operates corporate-owned and franchised units across nearly every U.S. state as well as Canada and Puerto Rico.

Modern Market Eatery is a food forward, sustainable fast casual restaurant concept that operates in Colorado, Texas, Arizona and Indiana. Lemonade is a California-based modern fast casual concept serving colorful, seasonal and healthy lunch and dinner options as diverse as California itself.

FinSMEs

09/08/2022
Econic Technologies, a Macclesfield, UK-based deep tech carbon-to-value company, raised 10.4m in the second close of its current Series D funding round.

This latest round follows the first close in April of this year, which was led by OGCI Climate Investments and Capricorn Sustainable Chemistry Fund. Joining them in this Series D second tranche were CM Venture Capital Fund III, LP (CM Venture Capital), GC Ventures Company, and ING Sustainable Investments B.V. for total raise of 10.4m (US$12.45m).

The funding will support the company through the commercialisation of its catalyst and process technology, which enables CO 2 to be used in the production of polymers.

Founded in 2011 by Prof. Charlotte Williams, at Imperial College London, and led by Keith Wiggins, CEO, Econic has developed catalyst technology that efficiently converts captured CO 2 into a usable raw material for use in the manufacturing of essential products, initially serving the polyurethane industry to make foams for insulation and mattresses, protective coatings, sealants, and adhesives. Econics technology allows customers to monetise CO 2 , while lowering their carbon footprint and to meet booming consumer demand for more sustainable products.

The company operates globally from Alderley Park, near Manchester, UK and has a customer demonstration facility in Runcorn, UK.

FinSMEs

09/08/2022
Malvertising, or malicious advertising, is the term pertaining to maliciously controlled advertisements on the internet.

These malicious advertisements are gateways for threat actors to deploy malware and cause harm to their victims. This could also be used by threat actors to download unwanted files or apps that load potentially threatening malware or viruses on your devices.

To put it another way, malvertising is the practice of using something that appears to be genuine online advertising in order to distribute malware and other threats while requiring very little to no interaction from the target user.

What is Malvertising?

It is possible for malicious advertisements to appear on any advertisement published on any website, including websites that you are familiar with.

According to Malwarebytes, malvertising typically involves the installation of a small piece of code on your computer that connects it to servers used by criminals for command and control (C&C).

After performing a scan of your computer to determine its location and the software that is currently installed on it, the server will select the piece of malware that it has determined to be the most effective to send to you.

Malvertising Campaigns: How They Attack

According to Malwarebytes, here are the common ways that threat actors deploy the malvertising campaigns:

Survey and Get-Rich-Quick Schemes

This is another marketing campaign used by malicious actors to deploy malware on your devices. These campaigns are usually advertised as you winning the lottery or that you have won a too-good-to-be-true freebie.

These could also market work-from-home scams and numerous surveys. Whether you are using an iPhone or an Android, both devices can be targeted by this type of malvertising campaign.

Scareware

This type of advertisement lures numerous victims in by alerting the owner that their devices are at great risk. It will notify you, saying that your Mac or Windows is infected and you need to download certain software to undo the damage.

Fake Software Updates

Software updates can often be a great thing, especially for our favorite software since this might mean an improved experience at the end, and sometimes this means a new feature is introduced.

However, this is not the most common tactic for actors to lure victims in. The ads masquerading as software updates are intended to entice and aggressively encourage victims to click on them. In certain circumstances, the installation program will download itself onto your computer automatically.

Tech Support Scams

This type of malicious ad can affect both Windows and Mac users. They will choose a target whom they will lure with their social engineering tricks.

They will present themselves as tech support from well-known tech companies like Apple or Microsoft and usually sell their victims hundreds of dollars for worthless or usually fake tech support subscriptions or services.

Read Also: QBot Malware Takes Advantage of Windows Calculator to Infect Devices

How To Avoid Malvertising

Seeing how innocent advertising we see on the internet can do so much harm, it is highly recommended to browse carefully, making sure not to install or download from suspicious sources. With that, here are a few recommendations by Norton to avoid malicious ads.

Ad Blockers

An ad blocker has proven to be helpful in blocking these types of ads while you browse. There is certain ad-blocking software that is free to install on your browser. Depending on how you browse the internet, you can also pay for ad blockers.

Although in some cases, not all ad blockers can stop ads while you use the internet. However, you can choose to make a few alterations in your settings and permit a few websites to show ads.

Click-to-play Setting

You can further protect yourself from malicious advertisements by adjusting the settings of your web browser so that the "click-to-play" option is enabled.

You will be safeguarded against malicious drive-by downloads thanks to this. If you check this box, any and all online content that cannot be accessed without the use of plugins, such as Java, Adobe Reader, QuickTime, or Flash, will be rendered unplayable unless you explicitly give it permission to do so.

Antivirus Software

If you were able to click links from these malvertising tactics and they contained a downloadable file, a reputable antivirus software can assist you in protecting your device from unwanted apps.

It is recommended for users to install trust-worthy and reliable antivirus software on their devices. After you have installed antivirus software, you must remember to immediately authorize any software updates.

These updates are frequently designed to defend your device from specific types of malware, including malvertising, which can be harmful to your computer. If you get behind on software updates, you expose the security of your computer to potential risk.

Related Article: What's the Difference Between Risk, Threat, and Vulnerability?
Grizzly.fi, a Zurich, Switzerland-based provider of a crypto platform that simplifies investing in the best opportunities in DeFi, raised $26M in funding.

The backers of their so-called Community Fair Launch were not disclosed.

The company intends to use the funds to continue building out their Ecosystem to accelerate the mass adoption of DeFi and improve their product offering.

Led by Andres Soltermann, Grizzly.fi is advancing a Yield Farming platform, a crypto system that simplifies investing in the best opportunities in the DeFi space and aims to be the Hub of long-term capital growth in crypto. After 18 months of developing, planning, and creating meaningful partnerships, the platform is officially going live. Having completed 5 Cybersecurity audits including Hacken.io, the company has put great importance on its security. and already announced a partnership with the Swiss Crypto Valley Association back in September 2021.

FinSMEs

09/08/2022
Students pay attention as an FBISD teacher instructs them during a lesson in 2021. (Staff file photo by Landan Kuhlmann)
A phishing attack on employees enabled attackers to breach the company's internal systems.

Communications company Twilio confirmed on Sunday that an SMS phishing attack that enabled attackers to steal employee credentials resulted in a breach of the organization's internal systems. Attackers used the stolen employee data to access internal systems and certain client data, resulting in the Twilio data breach.

Twilio, which is a company that allows web services to send SMS messages and conduct voice calls over phone networks, is used by firms such as Uber, Twitter, and Airbnb. The company was founded in 2008 in Seattle, Washington by Jeff Lawson, Evan Cooke, and John Wolthuis.

The cloud communications company took to their official blog to share details of the Twilio data breach, recounting how they were first alerted of the unauthorized access to information on August 4. The company described it as a "sophisticated social engineering attack" meant to gather employee data and use it to gain access to internal systems.

How Did the Attacker Gain Access to Employee Information at Twilio?

According to The Verge, the bad actor behind the Twilio data breach sent SMS messages to employees of the company and asked them to reset their password or informed them of a change in schedule. The text messages included a link with keywords such as "Twilio," "SSO" or single sign-on, and "Okta," the name of the user authentication service used by a number of companies.

The link would then lead Twilio employees to a page that looked like a real Twilio sign-in page, where the hackers collected the information that employees input on the page. Upon realizing the hacking scheme, Twilio coordinated with American phone carriers to shut down the SMS chain and asked web hosting platforms to take down the fake sign-in pages.

However, Twilio data breach hackers had already managed to swap to new hosting providers and mobile carriers to carry out their devious campaign.

Read Also: Verizon Data Breach 2022: 6000 TracFone Users Exposed

What Was the Scale of the Attack on Twilio?

While the company said that there had been unauthorized access to a "limited number" of customer accounts, the company's EMEA Communications Director Katherine James declined to offer more information when asked how many employees' accounts were affected by the Twilio data breach.

James also did not comment on how many customers were affected by the unauthorized access, saying that the communications company has "no additional comment to provide at this time beyond what is posted in the blog," Bleeping Computer reported.

Twilio confirmed, however, that the SMS employees received were from US carrier networks and that they have heard from other companies that fell victim to similar attacks recently. The company has not yet identified the actors behind the Twilio data breach but are already working with law enforcement for the investigation on the attack.

The company also confirmed that they have been notifying affected customers of the Twilio data breach and speaking to them "on an individual basis with the details." This is not the first time the company was targeted by a cyberattack.

In May 2021, Twilio was also affected by the Codecov supply-chain attack, in which bad actors modified the legitimate Codecov Bash Uploader tool and used it to steal credentials, secret keys, and user tokens from Codecov customers.

Related Article: NVIDIA Confirms Data Breach, Hackers Leak Next-Gen GeForce GPU Names
Any astronaut can now go to the moon through NASA's Artemis Missions.

NASA has recently announced that it will consider every agency astronaut for its upcoming Artemis moon missions when it makes seating assignments, per Space.com.

As a result, the pre-determined Artemis team it put together in 2020 is now defunct in favor of choosing any of its 42 active astronauts.

NASA Artemis Moon Mission Opening Details

NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman, the head of the astronaut office at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, stated in a briefing on August 5 that any one of NASA's 42 active astronauts is eligible for an Artemis mission, in his opinion.

He also added that the agency wants to assemble "the right team" for the mission and that astronauts will be "beating down the door" to go to the moon on NASA's Artemis missions.

Wiseman's statement is a blow for the 18 astronauts already selected to go to the moon in Artemis' first crewed launch following its upcoming uncrewed launch, or the Artemis I mission.

According to NASA, the astronauts selected to participate in the crewed Artemis missions are the following:

Joseph Acaba Kayla Barron Raja Chari Matthew Dominick Victor Glover Warren Hoburg Jonny Kim Christina H. Koch Kjell Lindgren Nicole A. Mann Anne McClain Jessica Meir Jasmin Moghbeli Kate Rubins Frank Rubio Scott Tingle Jessica Watkins Stephanie Wilson

Read More: Deepfakes: Cybercriminals' Latest Weapon in Cyber Attacks, Research Says

With the abolition of the Artemis team, the 18 astronauts selected for the Artemis missions will have to apply to be in one of the mission's crewed launches again.

However, there is a good reason behind the abolition of the old Artemis team: the modification of NASA's lifetime radiation exposure requirements.

Wiseman mentioned that the previous requirements were "draconian" in that women astronauts face discrimination when they're being evaluated to go to space. In contrast, men are getting an easier time in their evaluation, allowing them to accumulate more radiation and more time in space.

With the modified lifetime radiation exposure requirements, active NASA astronauts aged between 20 and 60 now have equal chances to go to space, regardless of gender.

Thanks to the modification, NASA will retain its previous agenda to put the first woman and person of color on the surface of the moon.

Upcoming NASA Artemis Mission Details

With the completion of the SLS' wet dress rehearsal, NASA has given the green light for Artemis I to launch either on August 9, Sept. 2 or Sept. 5.

This mission will be uncrewed to test whether the Orion spacecraft is safe for astronauts to use. However, it won't be empty either.

A Shaun the Sheep plushie is expected to be inside the spacecraft, along with a manikin named Commander Moonikin Campos, named after Apollo 13 lunar module electrical power subsystem manager Arturo Campos/.

Should Artemis I be successful, the first crewed mission, Artemis 2, will follow suit, with it happening sometime in 2025.

Related Article: Shaun the Sheep is Joining the Unmanned Artemis 1 Mission Later This Year
Underwater explorers or treasure hunters could easily make that priceless find using an underwater drone that can pinpoint and differentiate metals buried up to 33 feet (10 meters) beneath the seabed, while transmitting a three-dimensional digital map of the object's location, its manufacturer claimed

A prototype of the underwater drone, called the SeaSeearcher, is being tested after its designer Tim Reynolds and manufacturer Seafarer, which has partnered with Reynolds' company Wild Manta in producing the drone, received a permit from the Florida Bureau of Archaeological Research to scour an area south of Cape Canaveral.

Read Also: PowerVision PowerRay: Underwater Drone Provides Real-Time Visualization Of Finding Fish

Drone Used in Florida Treasure Hunting for Old Spanish Shipwrecks

Seafarer was given the rights to explore old Spanish shipwrecks and other wreckages along the Florida coastline using the drone. According to Seafarer CEO Kyle Kennedy in an interview on New Atlas, these Spanish ships used to dock in Havana, Cuba and were loaded with gold from the New World and traverse the Gulf Stream before heading across the ocean.

Storms would sink these ships while on their routes. He said there are over a thousand of these shipwrecks and there hasn't been available equipment or technlogy that would accurately pinpoint where gold and silver was buried under the sand. The SeaSearcher could finally do that job.

Three different work platforms (boats) comprise the Seafarer wherein three different crews on the site and a small run-about anchor boat that work on the system. These three work boats comprise experienced crew members of at least four divers per boat. Seafarer also deploys three archeologists, one with a doctorate from Oxford and two with over thirty years experience each in the treasure industry.

Open water tests and live field tests on the Melbourne Beach Area 2 Ring Site under an exploration permit from the Florida Division of Historic Resources have been "impressive," says Kennedy.

Archeologist Dr. Robert H. Baer, who took part in the testing of the underwater drone said the silver plates and flintlock pistol that were seen among the artifacts strongly indicate that thy could well serve as "diagnostic artifacts" that may eventtually identify the Melbourne Beach shipwreck.

Even if the SeaSearcher did not discover gold or silver on its first scan of the Ring Site, the drone identified several materials, such as brass, iron, copper, aluminum, lead, and stainless steel.

SeaSearcher Drone Runs on AI-Driven Machine Learning Algorithms

The SeaSearcher runs on an AI-driven machine learning algorithms. The more it's used, the more it learns. And, combined with exiasting training sets, the more abilities it can flex to realize high-precision, surgical archaeology. And Kennedy said, "the process is working."

SeaSearcher maker Seafarer Exploration, meanwhile, announced the second-generation SeaSearcher platform, which is capable of deeper water and multi-mode exploration.

This upgraded SeaSearcher offers a wider sense of metal differentiation and 3D digital imaging while appearing more streamlined and rugged. The SeaSearcher is designed to operate both idependently or could be towed by a boat operate in high current areas.

Related Article: WATCH! Incredible Drone Footage Shows The Ingenious Way Blue Whales Save Energy While Hunting For Food
FutureFuel Second Quarter Net Loss of $3.1 Million

Reports Net Loss of $3.1 Million or $0.07 per Diluted Share, and Adjusted EBITDA of $18.7 Million

CLAYTON, Mo., Aug. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FutureFuel Corp . (NYSE:FF) (FutureFuel), a manufacturer of custom and performance chemicals and biofuels, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022.

Second quarter 2022 Financial Highlights (all comparisons are with the second quarter of 2021)

Revenues were $117.8 million, up 59% from $74.1 million





Adjusted EBITDA was $18.7 million, up from $4.7 million (see reconciliation table below)





Net loss was $3.1 million, or $0.07 per diluted share, down from net income of $3.5 million, or $0.08 per diluted share.

Six months 2022 Financial Highlights (all comparisons are with the first half of 2021)



Revenues were $160.1 million, up 38% from $115.6 million





Adjusted EBITDA was $20.8 million, up from ($3.2) million (see reconciliation table below)





Net loss was $15.5 million, or $0.35 per diluted share, down from net loss of $5.3 million, or $0.12 per diluted share.

At the time of the release of our First Quarter 2022 results, we reported that our biodiesel business was dealt a blow when unprecedented volatility towards the expiry of the New York Mercantile Exchange May heating oil contract, caused FutureFuel to incur approximately $12 million of realized derivative losses during April. The impact of that event can clearly be seen in our results today. We have since amended our derivative strategy to help protect against this basis risk exposure and mitigate against the impacts of any recurrence of those market conditions. The outlook for our biodiesel segment now looks strong for the balance of the year.

We are increasingly encouraged by developments in our Chemicals segment. As well as various active projects to bring new products to our site, we have added the manufacturing capability to meet the requirements of the FDA Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) regulations. This will open up additional opportunities to our company, particularly in the field of pharmaceutical intermediates, said Tom McKinlay, Chief Executive Officer for FutureFuel Corp.

2022 Cash Dividends

FutureFuel paid a regular quarterly cash dividend in the amount of $0.06 per share on our common stock in the second quarter of 2022. The remaining quarterly dividends of $0.06 per share are expected to be paid in September and December.

Financial Overview and Key Operating Metrics

Financial and operating metrics, which include non-GAAP financial measures, include dollars in thousands, except per share amounts:

FutureFuel Corp.

Certain Financial and Operating Metrics (Unaudited)

Three Months Ended June 30, Dollar % 2022 2021 Change Change Revenue $ 117,796 $ 74,118 $ 43,678 59 % Loss from operations $ (1,515 ) $ (2,003 ) $ 488 24 % Net (loss) income $ (3,104 ) $ 3,481 $ (6,585 ) n/a (Loss) earnings per common share: Basic $ (0.07 ) $ 0.08 $ (0.15 ) n/a Diluted $ (0.07 ) $ 0.08 $ (0.15 ) n/a Adjusted EBITDA $ 18,709 $ 4,668 $ 14,041 301 %





Six Months Ended June 30, Dollar % 2022 2021 Change Change Revenue $ 160,057 $ 115,634 $ 44,423 38 % Loss from operations $ (11,122 ) $ (15,061 ) $ 3,939 26 % Net loss $ (15,502 ) $ (5,292 ) $ (10,210 ) (193 %) Loss per common share: Basic $ (0.35 ) $ (0.12 ) $ (0.23 ) (192 %) Diluted $ (0.35 ) $ (0.12 ) $ (0.23 ) (192 %) Adjusted EBITDA $ 20,807 $ (3,157 ) $ 23,964 n/a

Financial and Business Summary

Consolidated sales revenue in the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 increased $43,678 and $44,423 compared to the three and six months ended June 30, 2021. These increases resulted from increased sales price in the biofuels segment, and to a lesser extent, from increased prices in the chemicals segment. The increase was partially reduced by lower sales volumes in biofuels for both the three-and six-month periods and from lower sales volumes in the chemical segment in the three-month period ending June 30, 2022.

Loss from operations in the three months ended June 30, 2022 improved $488 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2021. This improvement primarily resulted from increased margins from the biofuels segment. Mostly offsetting this increase was the change in the activity in derivative instruments with a loss of $17.5 million in the current three-month period, as compared to $5.4 million in the same period of 2021. We experienced unprecedented volatility in the heating oil futures market which resulted in losses that were not fully recoverable on fuel sold. We have amended our derivative execution strategy to help mitigate reoccurrence.

Loss from operations in the six months ended June 30, 2022 improved $3,939 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2021. This improvement primarily resulted from increased margins from biofuels and the prior year period exorbitantly high natural gas prices experienced in the February 2021 Winter Storm Uri. Mostly offsetting this increase was the change in the activity in derivative instruments with a loss of $26.6 million in the current six-month period as compared to $8.0 million in the same period of 2021.

Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures were $1,895 in the first six months of 2022, compared with $488 in the same period in 2021.

Cash and Cash Equivalents and Marketable Securities

Cash and cash equivalents and marketable securities totaled $168,580 as of June 30, 2022, compared with $184,711 as of December 31, 2021.

About FutureFuel

FutureFuel is a leading manufacturer of diversified chemical products and biofuels. FutureFuel's chemicals segment manufactures specialty chemicals for specific customers (custom chemicals) as well as multi-customer specialty chemicals (performance chemicals). FutureFuels custom manufacturing product portfolio includes proprietary agrochemicals, adhesion promoters, a biocide intermediate, and an antioxidant precursor. FutureFuels performance chemicals products include a portfolio of proprietary nylon and polyester polymer modifiers and several small-volume specialty chemicals and solvents for diverse applications. FutureFuels biofuels segment primarily produces and sells biodiesel to its customers. Please visit www.futurefuelcorporation.com for more information.

Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements deal with FutureFuels current plans, intentions, beliefs, and expectations, and statements of future economic performance. Statements containing such terms as believe, do not believe, plan, expect, intend, estimate, anticipate, and other phrases of similar meaning are considered to contain uncertainty and are forward-looking statements. In addition, from time-to-time FutureFuel or its representatives have made or will make forward-looking statements orally or in writing. Furthermore, such forward-looking statements may be included in various filings that the company makes with United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC), in press releases, or in oral statements made by or with the approval of one of FutureFuels authorized executive officers.

These forward-looking statements are subject to certain known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to the COVID-19 pandemic and the response thereto, as well as assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in these forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, those set forth under the headings Risk Factors and Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in FutureFuels Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2021 and in its future filings made with the SEC. An investor should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements contained in this document, which reflect FutureFuel managements opinions only as of their respective dates. Except as required by law, the company undertakes no obligation to revise or publicly release the results of any revisions to forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties described in this document and in current and future filings with the SEC are not the only ones faced by FutureFuel. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the company to predict which will arise. There may be additional risks not presently known to the company or that the company currently believes are immaterial to its business. In addition, FutureFuel cannot assess the impact of each factor on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. If any such risks occur, FutureFuels business, operating results, liquidity, and financial condition could be materially affected in an adverse manner. An investor should consult any additional disclosures FutureFuel has made or will make in its reports to the SEC on Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K, and any amendments thereto. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to FutureFuel or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained in this document.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In this press release, FutureFuel used adjusted EBITDA as a key operating metric to measure both performance and liquidity. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. Adjusted EBITDA is not a substitute for operating income, net income, or cash flow from operating activities (each as determined in accordance with GAAP), as a measure of performance or liquidity. Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of results as reported under GAAP. FutureFuel defines adjusted EBITDA as net income before interest, income taxes, depreciation, and amortization expenses, excluding, when applicable, non-cash share-based compensation expense, public offering expenses, acquisition-related transaction costs, purchase accounting adjustments, loss on disposal of property and equipment, gains or losses on derivative instruments, other non-operating income or expense. Information relating to adjusted EBITDA is provided so that investors have the same data that management employs in assessing the overall operation and liquidity of FutureFuels business. FutureFuels calculation of adjusted EBITDA may be different from similarly titled measures used by other companies; therefore, the results of its calculation are not necessarily comparable to the results of other companies.

Adjusted EBITDA allows FutureFuels chief operating decision makers to assess the performance and liquidity of FutureFuels business on a consolidated basis to assess the ability of its operating segments to produce operating cash flow to fund working capital needs, to fund capital expenditures, and to pay dividends. In particular, FutureFuel management believes that adjusted EBITDA permits a comparative assessment of FutureFuels operating performance and liquidity, relative to a performance and liquidity based on GAAP results, while isolating the effects of depreciation and amortization, which may vary among its operating segments without any correlation to their underlying operating performance, and of non-cash stock-based compensation expense, which is a non-cash expense that varies widely among similar companies, and gains and losses on derivative instruments, whose immediate recognition can cause net income to be volatile from quarter to quarter due to the timing of the valuation change in the derivative instruments relative to the sale of biofuel.

A table included in this earnings release reconciles adjusted EBITDA with net income, the most directly comparable GAAP performance financial measure, and a table reconciles adjusted EBITDA with cash flows from operations, the most directly comparable GAAP liquidity financial measure.

FutureFuel Corp.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited) June 30, 2022 December 31, 2021 Assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 129,154 $ 137,521 Accounts receivable, inclusive of the blenders' tax credit of $13,084 and $8,232 and net of allowances for bad debt of $87 and $67, respectively 37,566 29,374 Inventory 31,584 26,920 Marketable securities 39,426 47,190 Other current assets 15,113 14,828 Total current assets 252,843 255,833 Property, plant and equipment, net 79,145 82,901 Other assets 5,398 5,596 Total noncurrent assets 84,543 88,497 Total Assets $ 337,386 $ 344,330 Liabilities and Stockholders Equity Accounts payable, inclusive of the blenders' tax credit rebates due customers of $890 and $890, respectively $ 42,051 $ 22,823 Dividends payable 5,252 - Other current liabilities 13,513 12,233 Total current liabilities 60,816 35,056 Deferred revenue  long-term 12,046 16,755 Other noncurrent liabilities 1,718 3,591 Total noncurrent liabilities 13,764 20,346 Total liabilities 74,580 55,402 Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, none issued and outstanding - - Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized, 43,763,243, issued and outstanding at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021 4 4 Accumulated other comprehensive income 61 178 Additional paid in capital 282,443 282,443 Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) (19,702 ) 6,303 Total Stockholders Equity 262,806 288,928 Total Liabilities and Stockholders Equity $ 337,386 $ 344,330

FutureFuel Corp.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

and Comprehensive Income

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, 2022 2021 2022 2021 Revenue $ 117,796 $ 74,118 $ 160,057 $ 115,634 Cost of goods sold and distribution 116,819 74,161 166,235 126.413 Gross profit (loss) 977 (43 ) (6,178 ) (10,779 ) Selling, general, and administrative expenses 1,737 1,162 3,510 2,710 Research and development expenses 755 798 1,434 1,572 Total operating expenses 2,492 1,960 4,944 4,282 Loss from operations (1,515 ) (2,003 ) (11,122 ) (15,061 ) Other (expense) income, net (2,527 ) 1,015 (6,022 ) 913 Loss before income taxes (4,042 ) (988 ) (17,144 ) (14,148 ) Income tax benefit (938 ) (4,469 ) (1,642 ) (8,856 ) Net (loss) income $ (3,104 ) $ 3,481 $ (15,502 ) $ (5,292 ) (Loss) earnings per common share Basic $ (0.07 ) $ 0.08 $ (0.35 ) $ (0.12 ) Diluted $ (0.07 ) $ 0.08 $ (0.35 ) $ (0.12 ) Weighted average shares outstanding Basic 43,763,243 43,754,232 43,763,243 43,748,768 Diluted 43,763,243 43,754,422 43,763,243 43,748,768 Comprehensive (loss) income Net (loss) income $ (3,104 ) $ 3,481 $ (15,502 ) $ (5,292 ) Other comprehensive (loss) income from unrealized net (loss) gain on available-for-sale debt securities (86 ) 60 (148 ) - Income tax effect 18 (16 ) 31 - Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (68 ) 44 (117 ) - Comprehensive (loss) income $ (3,172 ) $ 3,525 $ (15,619 ) $ (5,292 )

FutureFuel Corp.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022 2021 Cash flows from operating activities Net loss $ (15,502 ) $ (5,292 ) Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: Depreciation 5,276 5,231 Amortization of deferred financing costs 48 47 Benefit for deferred income taxes (1,672 ) (8,881 ) Change in fair value of equity securities 7,339 222 Change in fair value of derivative instruments (2,388 ) 1,136 (Gain) loss on the sale of investments 27 (758 ) Loss on disposal of property and equipment 50 - Impairment of intangible asset - 1,315 Noncash interest expense 17 16 Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable (8,172 ) (9,946 ) Accounts receivable  related parties (20 ) 1,405 Inventory (4,664 ) (19,625 ) Income tax receivable (20 ) 801 Prepaid expenses 1,773 1,977 Prepaid expenses  related parties (8 ) (12 ) Other assets 125 635 Accounts payable 19,171 23,074 Accounts payable  related parties 326 7,959 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (659 ) 7 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities  related parties (1 ) - Deferred revenue (2,769 ) (1,318 ) Other noncurrent liabilities (187 ) (342 ) Net cash used in operating activities (1,910 ) (2,349 ) Cash flows from investing activities Collateralization of derivative instruments 383 (2,060 ) Purchase of marketable securities - (19,170 ) Proceeds from the sale of marketable securities 250 37,873 Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment 56 - Proceeds from the sale of intangible asset - 93 Capital expenditures (1,895 ) (488 ) Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities (1,206 ) 16,248 Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from the issuance of stock - 231 Payment of dividends (5,251 ) (114,658 ) Net cash used in financing activities (5,251 ) (114,427 ) Net change in cash and cash equivalents (8,367 ) (100,528 ) Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 137,521 198,122 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 129,154 $ 97,594 Cash paid for interest $ - $ 43 Cash paid for income taxes $ 276 $ 79 Noncash investing and financing activities: Noncash capital expenditures $ 95 $ 51 Noncash operating leases $ - $ 269

FutureFuel Corp.

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measure to Financial Measure

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income

Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2022 2021 2022 2021 Net (loss) income $ (3,104 ) $ 3,481 $ (15,502 ) $ (5,292 ) Depreciation 2,706 2,623 5,276 5,231 Non-cash stock-based compensation - - - - Interest and dividend income (747 ) (790 ) (1,411 ) (1,795 ) Non-cash interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs 33 31 65 63 Losses on disposal of property and equipment 44 - 50 - Losses on derivative instruments 17,476 5,404 26,605 8,029 Loss (gain) on marketable securities 3,239 (1,612 ) 7,366 (537 ) Other income - - - - Income tax benefit (938 ) (4,469 ) (1,642 ) (8,856 ) Adjusted EBITDA $ 18,709 $ 4,668 $ 20,807 $ (3,157 )

Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Net Cash Used in Operating Activities

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022 2021 Net cash used in operating activities $ (1,910 ) $ (2,349 ) Benefit for deferred income taxes 1,672 8,881 Interest and dividend income (1,411 ) (1,795 ) Income tax benefit (1,642 ) (8,856 ) Loss on derivative instruments 26,605 8,029 Change in fair value of derivative instruments 2,388 (1,136 ) Change in operating assets and liabilities, net (4,895 ) (4,615 ) Impairment of intangible asset - (1,315 ) Other - (1 ) Adjusted EBITDA $ 20,807 $ (3,157 )

FutureFuel Corp.

Condensed Consolidated Segment Income

(Dollars in thousands)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, 2022 2021 2022 2021 Revenue Custom chemicals $ 12,266 $ 12,260 $ 27,981 $ 22,935 Performance chemicals 5,928 3,287 11,774 8,722 Chemicals revenue $ 18,194 $ 15,547 $ 39,755 $ 31,657 Biofuels revenue 99,602 58,571 120,302 83,977 Total Revenue $ 117,796 $ 74,118 $ 160,057 $ 115,634 Segment gross profit (loss) Chemicals $ 4,196 $ 4,285 $ 9,614 $ 2,984 Biofuels (3,219 ) (4,328 ) (15,792 ) (13,763 ) Total gross profit (loss) 977 (43 ) (6,178 ) (10,779 )

Depreciation is allocated to segment cost of goods sold based on plant usage. The total assets and capital expenditures of FutureFuel have not been allocated to individual segments as large portions of these assets are shared to varying degrees by each segment, causing such an allocation to be of little value.

COMPANY CONTACT

FutureFuel Corp.

Tom McKinlay

(314)854-8352

www.futurefuelcorporation.com
TORONTO, Aug. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CF Energy Corp. (TSX-V: CFY) (CF Energy or the Company; together with its subsidiaries, the Group), a leading new energy service provider in the Peoples Republic of China (the PRC or China) reports that Hainan Provincial Covid-19 Pandemic Control (the HPCPC) in Hainan Province, the PRC, has announced the implementation of temporary city-wide lock-down measures in Sanya City to control the new increase in reported cases of Covid-19 infections, starting on August 6, 2022. According to the announcement, except in the case of essential social and public services, pandemic control activities and emergency situations, people are asked to stay at home and restrict from engaging in activities outside of their homes in Sanya City. The Citys public transportation services including taxis and ride hailing services, supermarkets, drug stores, other shops, leisure places and restaurants will be temporarily closed. Residents in Hainan Province were asked not to leave the Province unless for necessary reasons and tourists in the Province will have to follow the newly implemented Covid-19 testing protocols before leaving for home.



According to the HPCPC latest news announcement on August 8, 2022, during the period of August 1 to August 7, 2022, the Province reported an aggregate of 982 new Covid-19 cases, with 801 cases in Sanya City. On the same day, the HPCPC also announced that water, electricity and gas providers should set up 24-hour emergency repair service teams to make every effort in ensuring the smooth operation of the City.

The Companys gas supply and district cooling services in Sanya City are considered as essential services and will remain in operation during the lock-down period but sales are expected to drop as a result of the lock-down.

About CF Energy Corp. (Previously known as: Changfeng Energy Inc.)

CF Energy Corp. is a Canadian public company trading on the Toronto Venture Exchange (TSX-V) under the stock symbol CFY. It is an integrated energy provider and natural gas utility/distribution company in the PRC. CF Energy strives to combine leading clean energy technology with natural gas usage to provide sustainable energy for its customer base in the PRC.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Corporate Investment Relations

investor.relations@changfengenergy.cn

Charles Wang

Executive Assistant to CEO & Chair of the Board

zhaoyu.wang@changfengenergy.cn

Frederick Wong

Director of the Board

fred.wong@changfengenergy.cn



Mike Liu

VP Capital Market

mike.liu@changfengenergy.cn

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, Forward-Looking Statements). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included or incorporated by reference in this document are forward-looking statements  including statements regarding activities, events or developments that the Company expects or anticipates may occur in the future. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as will, expect, intend, plan, estimate, anticipate, believe, continue, other similar words and/or the negatives thereof. No assurance is given that the plans, intentions or expectations or assumptions upon which these forward-looking statements are based will prove to be correct and the forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. Though management believes that the expectations outlined in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will materialize. Such-looking statements are not a guarantee of performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to deviate materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements or developments expressed or implied by such forward- looking statements. These factors include, without limitation, significant and continuing adverse changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets. Readers are cautioned that all forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including those risks and uncertainties detailed in the Corporations filings with applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities, copies of which are available at www.sedar.com. The Company urges readers to carefully consider these factors. The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this document and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking Statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation. This news release neither constitutes an offer to sell nor a solicitation of offers to buy any of the securities described herein. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on its contents.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
The email marketing firm, Klaviyo, one of the most popular software in the world that hosts newsletters and e-mail services, has confirmed that they experienced a data breach in their system on August 3.

Klaviyo detailed that the threat actor made it possible to infiltrate their system through baiting one of the company's employees. This type of strategy has been used numerous times by malicious actors who want to launch a data breach against a certain company.

Email Marketing Firm

The email marketing firm stated that the hackers stole login credentials from one of their employees through a phishing attack.

After that, these login credentials were used to access the employee's account as well as various internal support tools provided by Klaviyo.

According to BleepingComputer, the malicious threat actor used the internal customer support tools to locate specific niched email lists that the company has.

The investigation revealed that the hacker chose to primarily select a list of emails that are related to cryptocurrency activities. The offender was able to scan information from 44 Klaviyo accounts and downloaded the information regarding 38 of those.

According to Klaviyo, they have reported a breach of their network to the appropriate authorities and are working with a third-party cybersecurity firm to further investigate the incident.

The information that was downloaded included phone numbers, email addresses, and names, in addition to certain account-specific custom profile properties for accounts that were included in those lists or segments.

In addition to illegally obtaining the crypto-related emails, the threat actor also compromised the company's two internal lists for product and marketing updates, which contain information like phone numbers, email addresses, names, and addresses.

Klaviyo's Data For Crypto Hacking

The email marketing firm wants to warn its partners and subscribers of the imposing risk ahead after the incident happened.

The customers might be targeted for numerous malicious cyberattacks such as phishing, smishing, and ransomware using the information from the stolen data.

According to Klaviyo, the company is worried that the threat actor may engage in phishing or smishing activities, and they want all of their customers, contacts, and employees to be wary of any requests to reset their passwords, inquire about their payment information, or receive emails from unusual domains.

In addition, Klaviyo is aware of new websites that are attempting to acquire Klaviyo logins by emulating the Klaviyo layout.

In the coming weeks, there may be an increase in the number of phishing campaigns and websites that are virtually identical to legitimate ones.

Read Also: Crypto Rug Pulls: The Biggest NFT Scams Yet

Cryptocurrency Hacking

Since the hacking incident, it may not be surprising that a certain set of customers will be targeted by the hackers who are behind this. However, there is also a possibility that the actors will sell the data acquired to other threat actors.

On the other hand, it would not be surprising in the least if these details were eventually made public and made available for free on hacking forums.

Incidents like this may not be all that surprising, as actors have continued to directly attack victims for monetary gains.

Cryptocurrency, a new digital asset, has become one of their go-to targets. iTechPost previously reported that between January 2021 and March 2022, the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that over 46,000 people in the United States have reported falling victim to scams that caused them to lose cryptocurrency valued at over one billion dollars.

Related Article: Tiffany & Co is Turning CryptoPunk NFTs into Pendants, to Go on Sale on August 5 - How Much Will It Cost you?
TORONTO, Aug. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CIK Telecom INC, one of the largest independent ISPs in Canada, on its 19th anniversary, announced the launch of 10Gbps fibre internet utilizing its own fibre network (rebranded as SuperFibre) to thousands of homes near its head office located at 241 Whitehall Drive in Markham.

CIK Telecom celebrates 19 years of delivering affordable high-speed internet services nationwide to over 200,000 Canadian customers. CIK Telecom offers both residential and business telecom services, including high-speed internet, home phone, digital TV, cell phone and home security services.

CIK Telecom also announced its new fibre development division  SuperFibre Communications Ltd, which has won 3 fibre development contracts valued at$55M, awarded on July 20, 2022, by York Region to develop the fibre network for 6 cities in York Region, including Markham, Richmond Hill, Aurora, Newmarket, King and East Gwillimbury until December 31st, 2025.

SuperFibre Communication is responsible for developing, constructing and maintaining its own fibre internet networks for CIK Group, including FTTB (Fibre-To-The Building), FTTH (Fibre-to-the-House), and Air Fibre internet. SuperFibre Communications aims to build a completely independent fibre network from the last mile to the internet backbone without relying on any specific third party while providing the fastest and most stable internet service available to people in Canada, by building and upgrading existing telecom infrastructure to a True Optical Fibre infrastructure in buildings and homes. SuperFibre communications is building its own fibre network in Canada using fibre optic technology, the latest innovation in internet connectivity. This allows CIK Telecom and SuperFibre to be entirely independent from the incumbent ISPs such as Rogers or Bell.

Up to this day, SuperFibre has completed over 50,000 FTTBunits and thousands of FTTH constructions in the Markham and Richmond Hill area.

SuperFibreis migrating its entire network from 1Gbps to 10Gbps starting in the Markham area. Furthermore, SuperFibre will have a more experienced and dedicated support team for customer service and technical support around the clock. Last but not least, CIK will have full autonomy over the fibre internet connections and lines in the ground, which means in case of an outage or technical failure, they can send out their own expert in-house technicians or SuperFibre engineers to fix any issue in a matter of minutes, without needing to wait for over a day for a Rogers or Bell technician to try and fix things. We all know how that went when there was an outage causing a crisis nationwide.

Jordan Deng, CEO of CIK Telecom, mentioned, Our SuperFibre network is completely developed by ourselves starting at the lines/connection at customers home to the internet lines underground connected to our own network. That means that any other internet companys failure would not affect any of our customers who are connected to our own SuperFibre network. In our design, all SuperFibre customers will have fibre directly coming from our POI to their home, which means if they have a backup UPS at home for the modem and router, they would not need to worry about power outages while selecting up to 10Gbps speeds  the fastest residential speed in Canada. 

Jordan Deng also said: Although our SuperFibre network is still very small, we are independent. And, we are providing customers with an extra fibre internet choice at a very affordable price. We offer unlimited high-speed SuperFibre internet plans with a starting price of$34.99 per month for 300Mbps. To check if you are eligible, please check www.ciktel.com/superfibre.

About CIK

CIK Telecom offers both residential and business telecom services, including high-speed Cable and DSL internet, Fibre internet, Home Phone, Digital TV and Home Security services. Today, CIK has over 400 employees providing services and support to over 250,000 customers in Canada.

Contact

Management of Public Relations

CIK Telecom

social.cik@ciktel.com
LAFAYETTE, N.J., Aug. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dozens of staff and alumni from Sunrise House Treatment Center came together this past weekend to participate in The Center for Prevention and Counselings Changing the Face of Addiction Walk on Saturday, August 6 in Franklin. In addition to the raising awareness about addiction and recovery, the gathering also celebrated a Sunrise House staff members recovery milestone.



Joe Gayle, a treatment advocate supervisor, is celebrating his 25th year in recovery and his 17th year as an employee of Sunrise House. Gayle was inspired to be a part of the Sunrise House team to share a new way of life with others. Closely following the 12 Steps, Gayle wanted to teach others just what recovery can be.

We in the recovery community are proof that as long as you walk your path to recovery with an open heart and open mind, you can accomplish anything, said Gayle. Sobriety has given me the life I once dreamed of, and thanks to AA, Sunrise House and fellowship through events such as this addiction walk, I am still fulfilling those dreams today.

The Center for Prevention and Counseling hosts the Changing the Face of Addiction Walk fundraising event each year to provide prevention, counseling and recovery resources to the community. It also serves to remember the lives lost to this disease and reduce the stigma of addiction that prevents so many from reaching out for help.

One of the most important aspects of recovery is community and our alumni relish the opportunity to not only be with one another, but to immerse themselves in the entire local recovery community, said Brianna Louis, alumni coordinator at Sunrise House Treatment Center. So many of our patients in recovery deeply appreciate these interactions with so many others who intimately understand addiction and recovery, and by raising awareness, for many, this is just one way of them giving back.

Because the Sunrise House Team was comprised of alumni and others from New Jersey, many have been eager to participate since last years walk. The after-race celebration continued at the Sunrise House Treatment Center facility, where the alumni were able to share their recovery stories with patients currently seeking treatment during an outdoor BBQ.

The Changing the Face of Addiction Recovery Walk is a cause Sunrise House will continue to support because thats exactly what we need to do - change the face of addiction, said Marcey Davis, interim CEO of Sunrise House Treatment Center. Stigma and nonsensical preconceived notions about addiction are the very things that prevent people from reaching out. Addiction does not have a face, it is an indiscriminate disease, and well stand behind all efforts to tamp down this stigma.

After the success of this years recovery walk, the Center for Prevention and Counseling are already looking forward to next years event.

With strong support of other local agencies, organizations and businesses, the Center for Prevention and Counseling is, once again, looking forward to welcoming the recovery community and their allies to join us this time next year for the 9th annual Changing the Face of Addiction walk to further promote hope, health and recovery. We invite everyone to get involved and learn more at www.recoverywalk.org .

About Sunrise House Treatment Center

Sunrise House Treatment Center is located in Lafayette, N.J. Sunrise House treats patients who are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental/behavioral health issues. For more information, call 973-657-5738.

Sunrise House Treatment Center

37 Sunset Inn Road

Lafayette, NJ 07848

973-657-5738

Contact:

Maz Rodriguez

Public Relations Manager

MRodriguez@ContactAAC.com

615-335-0893

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f2dabd9b-afa8-4fa5-8d11-773522586c11

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5f193f72-5c37-4856-819a-fdc028862508
English Estonian

On 9 August 2022, AS Merko Ehitus Eesti, part of AS Merko Ehitus group, and KMG Inseneriehituse AS signed a design and construction contract with Tallinn Urban Environment and Public Works Department for the construction of a tram line connecting the Tallinn Old Harbour with Rail Baltics Ulemiste passenger terminal.

About being selected the preferred bidder, AS Merko Ehitus published stock exchange announcement on 19 July 2022.

Under the agreement, a new tram line will be built on a section of approximately 2.5 kilometres, starting at the intersection of Kivisilla/Gonsiori streets up to the Pohja boulevard. In carrying out the works, AS Merko Ehitus Eesti is the leading partner with a 50:50 ratio.

The contract value is approximately EUR 36.5 million, plus value added tax. The scheduled deadline of the works is in February 2025.

AS Merko Ehitus Eesti ( merko.ee ) is Estonian leading construction company, which offers construction services in general construction, civil engineering and residential construction and develops residential real estate. To ensure the best quality and convenience for home buyers, Merko manages all phases of the development: planning, design, construction, sales and service during the warranty period.

Additional information: Mr. Ivo Volkov, CEO of AS Merko Ehitus Eesti, phone +372 680 5105.

Urmas Somelar

Head of Finance

AS Merko Ehitus

+372 650 1250

urmas.somelar@merko.ee
Dublin, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Automated Parking System Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global automated parking system market is expected to grow from US$ 1,411.59 million in 2021 to US$ 3,543.77 million by 2028; it is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 14.1% from 2021 to 2028.



The need for automated parking systems has increased significantly in the past a few years owing to the increasing number of vehicles and consequently growing demand for sustainable parking solutions. According to the World Economic Forum, the number of cars in the world is estimated reach 2 billion mark by 2040.

Industry experts anticipate most of this growth to happen in emerging markets such as China and India, owing to the rapid increase in population. With the surge in number of vehicles, people are facing issues such as traffic congestion and parking space insufficiency. Fully automated parking systems are capable of parking and retrieving a car automatically. In July 2021, Westfalia Technologies, Inc. (Westfalia) announced the launch of Westfalia Parking App, an all-in-one consumer parking solution that will improve efficiency, safety, and convenience in parking garages across the world, including US, UAE, and Denmark.



Reasons to Buy

Save and reduce time carrying out entry-level research by identifying the growth, size, leading players and segments in the automated parking system market

Highlights key business priorities in order to assist companies to realign their business strategies

The key findings and recommendations highlight crucial progressive industry trends in the automated parking system market thereby allowing players across the value chain to develop effective long-term strategies

Develop/modify business expansion plans by using substantial growth offering developed and emerging markets

Scrutinize in-depth Global market trends and outlook coupled with the factors driving the market, as well as those hindering it

Enhance the decision-making process by understanding the strategies that underpin commercial interest with respect to client products, segmentation, pricing and distribution

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Increasing Number of Vehicles and Consequently Growing Demand for Sustainable Parking Solutions

Growth in Number of Luxury Buildings with Increased Space and Enhanced Parking Facilities

Market Restraints

High Initial Investment Requirements and Complexity of Monitoring Systems

Market Opportunities

Development of "Smart Cities"

Robotic Garages and Robotic Parking

Key Topics Covered:



1. Introduction



2. Key Takeaways



3. Research Methodology



4. Automated Parking System Market Landscape



5. Automated Parking System Market - Key Market Dynamics



6. Automated Parking System Market - Global Analysis



7. Automated Parking System Market Analysis - By Component



8. Automated Parking System Market - By Automation Level



9. Automated Parking System Market - By Platform



10. Automated Parking System Market - By End-User



11. Automated Parking System Market - Geographic Analysis



12. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic



13. Automated Parking System Market-Industry Landscape



14. Company Profiles



15. Appendix



Companies Mentioned

AJ Automated Parking Systems

CityLift

FATA Automation

KLAUS Multiparking GmbH

Park Plus, Inc.

Parkmatic

Robotic Parking Systems, Inc.

SKYLINE PARKING

unitronics

WESTFALIA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jrg9m

Attachment
SEOUL, KOREA, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ALTAVA Group, the leading luxury fashion metaverse, signs an MOU with Hyundai Department Store, one of South Korea's three largest department store chains, in order to strengthen their Web3 presence.





Hyundai was the first department store in Korea to launch a digital wallet when the company announced H.NFT wallet earlier this year. H.NFT, can be accessed through Hyundai Department Store Group's H.Point app, a membership service offered by all subsidiaries in the group.

"ALTAVA is one of the leaders when it comes to helping leading luxury brands to connect to Web3. This cooperation will strengthen the utility and add premium value for our H.NFT wallet and its users," said a representative from Hyundai Department Store.

"Hyundai Department Store plans to issue NFTs containing information on promotional events and VIP lounge access, and collaborate with artists to create tokenized digital art. We are excited to work closely with them to bring additional content and services to their customers," said Andy Ku, ALTAVA Group CEO/Co-Founder.

About ALTAVA Group

ALTAVA Group is a Singapore-based company with offices in Seoul, Ho Chi Minh City, London, and Paris. ALTAVA is the luxury fashion metaverse that enable users to discover, interact, and express themselves through hi-fidelity avatar. The Company operates WOY (World of You), a meter verse that provides omni-platform experiential solution which seamlessly connect consumers to real-world and virtual world for high-end luxury brands and discerning partners.

Link to ALTAVA Social Media/ Website

Announcement Telegram: https://t.me/altavaofficial

Telegram Chat: https://t.me/altavachat

Discord: discord.gg/altava

Twitter: twitter.com/altavagroup

Medium: medium.com/@altavagroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/altavagroup

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/altava

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/altavagroup/

Japan Telegram: https://t.me/altavajapan

Japan Twitter: https://twitter.com/altavagroupjp

PR/Media Contact

Brand: ALTAVA

Name of Contact Person: Oh Thongsrinoon

Email: media@altava.com

Company Headquarter: 6 Eu Tong Sen Street #11-1OU, The Central, Singpore 059817

Website: https://altava.com/

SOURCE: ALTAVA
Pune, India, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global self-checkout systems market size was valued at USD 3.90 billion in 2021. The market is projected to grow from USD 4.51 billion in 2022 to USD 12.01 billion by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 15.0% during the forecast period. This information is provided by Fortune Business Insights, in its report, titled, Self-Checkout Systems Market, 2022-2029.

The bolstering demand for automation and cloud-based Self-Checkouts (SCO) in the retail sector for price as well as time proficiency fuels the market for self-checkout systems. Moreover, multiple pioneering players in the market are embracing these advanced solutions in order to automate their business activities across retail stores.

Surging demand for automation and cloud-based Self-Checkouts (SCO) in the retail industry for price and time proficiency fuels the market for self-checkout systems. Various important companies in the market are implementing these advanced solutions to mechanize the business procedures across retail stores.





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Key Industry Development:

January 2022: Qingdao Wintec System Co., Ltd. unveiled its WINTEC SelfPoS60 solution for the Homeplus retail brand based in South Korea. SelfPoS60 is a self-checkout management system that sustains all the primary and advanced activities of inventive self-checkout processing.

Report Scope & Segmentation

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2022 to 2029 Forecast Period 2022 to 2029 CAGR 15.0% 2029 Value Projection USD 12.01 billion Base Year 2021 Self-Checkout Systems Market Size in 2021 USD 3.90 billion Historical Data for 2018 to 2020 No. of Pages 173 Segments covered Type, Component, Sales Channel, End-user and Geography Self-Checkout Systems Market Growth Drivers Increased Penetration of Automation across Retail and Hospitality Industries to Drive the Market Data Security Concerns are Expected to Impede Market Growth





Shutting of Retail Stores and Strict Lockdown Guidelines Restricted Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic destructively influenced the market owing to lockdowns, numerous limitations inflicted by governments of various countries, and the shutting of retail shops, malls, and hypermarkets. The global self-checkout market displayed a trivial deterioration in the market size by 12.4% in 2020 compared to 2019. In regards with revenue, the market perceived a decline in revenue to USD 3.38 billion in 2020.





Click here to get the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this Market:

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Drivers and Restraints:

Amplified Usage of Automation across Retail and Hospitality Sectors to Foster Growth

Surging digitization, connectivity, and data are prime aspects that fuel digital transformation. Industries implement digitalization to create novel products and services to refine customer approval. Self-checkout solutions aid consumers with shopping and enable digital and contactless payments without requiring retail staff. The embracing of electronic payment processes has augmented the demand for checkout systems. These checkout systems are deployed to decrease wait time and offer a ground breaking shopping experience to users.

Report Coverage:

The report offers valuable insights obtained by thorough study done by our researchers. An extensive research was conducted to provide the estimated size of the market. The data used to project the shares for multiple segments at the country, regional, and global levels is obtained from in-depth interviews with numerous stakeholders. Furthermore, we have gained access to several global and regional paid databases to deliver precise information to make business investment decisions easy.

Segments:

Fixed Segment Owns Lions Share owing to Bolstering Demand in Convenience Stores

Based on type, the Self-Checkout Systems Market includes fixed and mobile-based self-checkout solutions. The fixed segment is estimated to hold the largest market share as it presents more aspects and functionality. The growing acceptance of fixed checkout systems among convenience store owners has uplifted the market growth.

Increasing Demand for Automations by Retailers Propelled Self-Scanning Solutions Globally

The Self-Checkout Systems Market study involves solution and services based on component. The solution segment is projected to hold the maximum self-checkout systems market share owing to the surging installation of self-checkout machines across the retail and hospitality sectors.

Direct Sales Channel to Witness High Growth Owing to Rising Adoption by Large Retail Chains

The market scope comprises direct and indirect based on sales channel. The direct segment is expected to hold the largest Self-Checkout Systems Market share owing to bulk procurement initiated by the retail and hospitality businesses.

Increasing Adoption of Self-Checkout Systems to Spur Demand for Retail Business

The market scope involves retail, hospitality, and others (mass merchandisers) based on end-user. The retail segment is anticipated to hold the largest market share owing to the surging implementation of self-checkout machines in retail shops, supermarkets, and convenience stores as it is both time and cost-effective.

Geographically, the market share is fragmented into five major regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and South America. They are further categorized into countries.



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Regional Insights:

North America to Hold Largest Share Backed by Thriving Utilization of Automation

North America is projected to hold the largest self-checkout systems market share during the forecast period due to multiple deployments of the product by retail stores. Additionally, the North American market is fueled by the surging utilization of automation and digital payment methods by retailers, restaurants, as well as other end-users.

The Europe market is navigated by the rising embracing of mobile self-scanning among retailers and restaurants. The adoption of these advanced technology is perceived across nations such as the U.K., France, and the Netherlands.

Likewise, Asia Pacific is predicted to grow with the highest CAGR owing to the rising number of producers and shipments. The market is enhancing promptly in this region, with consumers predisposing toward automation and digitalization.

Competitive Landscape:

Vital Business-related Declarations by Prime Players to Sway Market Dynamics

Crucial companies in the market often make pivotal announcements concerning a few business moves, which, in turn, affect the market either positively or negatively. Players acquire companies, launch new products, engage in partnership deals, sign contracts with government organizations, and so on.

List of Key Players Self-Checkout Systems Market in the Report:

Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions

NCR Corporation

Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated

Qingdao Histone Intelligent Commercial System Co. Ltd.

Qingdao CCL Technology Co., Ltd.

Qingdao Wintec System Co., Ltd.

Fujitsu Limited

Erply

ITAB Group

Pan-Oston

Major Table of Contents:

Introduction Definition, By Segment Research Methodology/Approach Data Sources

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities and Trends Impact of COVID-19 Short-term Impact Long-term Impact

Competition Landscape Business Strategies Adopted by Key Players Consolidated SWOT Analysis of Key Players Global Self-Checkout System Key Players Market Share Insights and Analysis, 2021

Global Self-Checkout System Market Size Estimates and Forecasts, By Segments, 2018-2029 Key Findings By Type (USD) Fixed Mobile-based By Component (USD) Solution Services By Sales Channel (USD) Direct Indirect By End-user (USD) Retail Supermarket/Hypermarket Departmental Stores Convenience Store Others Hospitality Hotels Restaurants Others Others By Region (USD) North America South America Europe Middle East & Africa Asia Pacific



TOC Continued!





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About Us:

Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them to address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

US: +1 424 253 0390

UK: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245
TORONTO, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Eloro Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: ELO; OTCQX: ELRRF; FSE: P2QM) (Eloro, or the Company) is pleased to announce the launch of its Virtual Site Tour utilizing the VRIFY Technology Inc. (VRIFY) platform to showcase the Iska Iska silver-tin polymetallic project in the Potosi District of southern Bolivia. The VRIFY platform will assist investors to better understand the scale and extent of Eloros major discovery at Iska Iska. In particular, the presentation highlights grade shell modelling in Leapfrog of the higher-grade feeder zone at Santa Barbara which has been the focus of recent drilling. As the drilling program progresses, Eloro will regularly update VRIFY to illustrate how new drilling results are advancing the project and leading to an inaugural NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate, expected in Q4 2022.



The 3D renderings, satellite imagery and 3600 drone footage amalgamated into the VRIFY platform provides Eloro with enhanced content for its website and corporate presentation. The VRIFY presentation provides property location, topography, infrastructure, geology and geophysical information. It showcases exploration activities including drilling, 3D models of polymetallic mineralization and upside deposit potential.

VRIFY Technology Inc. is a cloud-based 3D presentation and collaboration technology platform used by companies to communicate with investors using 360 virtual tours of remote mining assets, 3D deposit models and interactive presentations. VRIFY can be accessed by website and with the VRIFY iOS and Android apps.

The Eloro Company Profile on VRIFY can be accessed here:

https://vrify.com/companies/eloro-resources-ltd?investor=true

Interactive VRIFY 3D Model

To view an interactive 3D model of the Iska Iska Project please visit Eloros website at www.elororesources.com.

Tom Larsen, CEO of Eloro, commented: We are excited to launch Iska Iska on the VRIFY platform, which has become widely used in the mining industry to enhance shareholders understanding of exploration and mining projects. The Iska Iska VRIFY presentation gives investors an excellent sense of the remarkable scale of Iska Iska and the major potential we see to outline a substantive polymetallic silver-tin polymetallic mineral resource. Furthermore, the 3D geological and geophysical models illustrate that we have explored only a small part of this immense porphyry-epithermal system which is open along strike, across strike and down dip at depth.

Qualified Person

Dr. Osvaldo Arce, P. Geo., General Manager of Eloros Bolivian subsidiary, Minera Tupiza S.R.L., and a Qualified Person in the context of NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release. Dr. Bill Pearson, P.Geo., Executive Vice President Exploration Eloro, and who has more than 45 years of worldwide mining exploration experience, including extensive work in South America, manages the overall technical program, working closely with Dr. Osvaldo Arce, P.Geo. Dr. Quinton Hennigh, P.Geo., Senior Technical Advisor to Eloro and Independent Technical Advisor, Mr. Charley Murahwi P. Geo., FAusIMM of Micon are regularly consulted on technical aspects of the project.

Eloro is utilizing both ALS and AHK for drill core analysis, both of whom are major international accredited laboratories. Drill samples sent to ALS are prepared in both ALS Bolivia Ltdas preparation facility in Oruro, Bolivia and the preparation facility operated by AHK in Tupiza with pulps sent to the main ALS Global laboratory in Lima for analysis. More recently Eloro has had ALS send pulps to their laboratory at Galway in Ireland. Eloro employs an industry standard QA/QC program with standards, blanks and duplicates inserted into each batch of samples analyzed with selected check samples sent to a separate accredited laboratory.

Drill core samples sent to AHK Laboratories are prepared in a preparation facility installed and managed by AHK in Tupiza with pulps sent to the AHK laboratory in Lima, Peru. Au and Sn analysis on these samples is done by ALS Bolivia Ltda in Lima. Check samples between ALS and AHK are regularly done as a QA/QC check. AHK is following the same analytical protocols used as with ALS and with the same QA/QC protocols. Turnaround time continues to improve, as laboratories return to more normal staffing levels.

About Iska Iska

Iska Iska silver-tin polymetallic project is a road accessible, royalty-free property, wholly controlled by the Title Holder, Empresa Minera Villegas S.R.L. and is located 48 km north of Tupiza city, in the Sud Chichas Province of the Department of Potosi in southern Bolivia. Eloro has an option to earn a 99% interest in Iska Iska.

Iska Iska is a major silver-tin polymetallic porphyry-epithermal complex associated with a Miocene possibly collapsed/resurgent caldera, emplaced on Ordovician age rocks with major breccia pipes, dacitic domes and hydrothermal breccias. The caldera is 1.6km by 1.8km in dimension with a vertical extent of at least 1km. Mineralization age is similar to Cerro Rico de Potosi and other major deposits such as San Vicente, Chorolque, Tasna and Tatasi located in the same geological trend.

Eloro began underground diamond drilling from the Huayra Kasa underground workings at Iska Iska on September 13, 2020. On November 18, 2020, Eloro announced the discovery of a significant breccia pipe with extensive silver polymetallic mineralization just east of the Huayra Kasa underground workings and a high-grade gold-bismuth zone in the underground workings. On November 24, 2020, Eloro announced the discovery of the SBBP approximately 150m southwest of the Huayra Kasa underground workings.

Subsequently, on January 26, 2021, Eloro announced significant results from the first drilling at the SBBP including the discovery hole DHK-15 which returned 129.60 g Ag eq/t over 257.5m (29.53g Ag/t, 0.078g Au/t, 1.45%Zn, 0.59%Pb, 0.080%Cu, 0.056%Sn, 0.0022%In and 0.0064% Bi from 0.0m to 257.5m. Subsequent drilling has confirmed significant values of Ag-Sn polymetallic mineralization in the SBBP and the adjacent CBP. A substantive mineralized envelope which is open along strike and down-dip extends around both major breccia pipes. Continuous channel sampling of the Santa Barbara Adit located to the east of SBBP returned 442 g Ag eq/t (164.96 g Ag/t, 0.46%Sn, 3.46% Pb and 0.14% Cu) over 166m including 1,092 g Ag eq/t (446 g Ag/t, 9.03% Pb and 1.16% Sn) over 56.19m. The west end of the adit intersects the end of the SBBP.

Since the initial discovery hole, Eloro has released a number of significant drill results in the SBBP and the surrounding mineralized envelope which along with geophysical data has defined a target zone 1400m along strike, 500m wide and that extends to a depth of 600m. This zone is open along strike to the northwest and southeast as well as to the southwest. The Companys nearer term objective is to outline a maiden NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource within this large target area. This work is advancing well with the mineral resource targeted to be completed in Q3 2022. Exploration drilling is also planned on other major targets in the Iska Iska Caldera Complex, including the Porco and Mina 2 areas.

About Eloro Resources Ltd.

Eloro is an exploration and mine development company with a portfolio of gold and base-metal properties in Bolivia, Peru and Quebec. Eloro has an option to acquire a 99% interest in the highly prospective Iska Iska Property, which can be classified as a polymetallic epithermal-porphyry complex, a significant mineral deposit type in the Potosi Department, in southern Bolivia. A recent NI 43-101 Technical Report on Iska Iska, which was completed by Micon International Limited, is available on Eloros website and under its filings on SEDAR. Iska Iska is a road-accessible, royalty-free property. Eloro also owns an 82% interest in the La Victoria Gold/Silver Project, located in the North-Central Mineral Belt of Peru some 50 km south of Barricks Lagunas Norte Gold Mine and Pan American Silvers La Arena Gold Mine. La Victoria consists of eight mining concessions and eight mining claims encompassing approximately 89 square kilometres. La Victoria has good infrastructure with access to road, water and electricity and is located at an altitude that ranges from 3,150 m to 4,400 m above sea level.

For further information please contact either Thomas G. Larsen, Chairman and CEO or Jorge Estepa, Vice-President at (416) 868-9168.

Information in this news release may contain forward-looking information. Statements containing forward-looking information express, as at the date of this news release, the Companys plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations, or beliefs as to future events or results and are believed to be reasonable based on information currently available to the Company. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.




Pune, India, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Project Portfolio Management Market size was valued at USD 4.09 billion in 2021 and reached USD 4.29 billion in 2022. The market size is expected to touch USD 7.01 billion by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period. Rising demand for 360-degree perspective project cycle and rapid digitization are expected to propel industry progress. Fortune Business Insights provides this information in its report titled Project Portfolio Management (PPM) Market, 2022-2029

Key Industry Development

January 2021: Planview completed the acquisition of Clarizen and Changepoint and allowed its consumers to access resources and tools required for effective planning and execution of crucial initiatives.





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PPM Market Report Scope:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2022-2029 Forecast Period 2022 to 2029 CAGR 7.3% 2029 Value Projection USD 7.01 Billion Base Year 2021 PPM Market Size in 2021 USD 4.09 Billion Historical Data for 2018-2020 No. of Pages 170 Growth Factor Strong Demand for Cloud-Based PPM Services to Propel Market Growth Increasing Adoption of Cloud-based Solutions Enhanced Industry Progress





Drivers and Restraints

Strong Demand for Cloud-Based PPM Services to Propel Market Growth

Project Portfolio Management (PPM) is a software responsible for the management of multiple projects under a single umbrella in an organization. Furthermore, the rising demand for cloud-based software services is expected to enhance industry growth. Moreover, improvements in cloud-based applications and the increasing reliance of contemporary businesses and companies on cloud technology are expected to bolster industry progress. Also, the extensive adoption of portable computing devices is expected to enhance the market growth.

However, lack of data confidentiality may hinder the industrys growth.

Regional Insights

Rising Penetration of Advanced Technologies to Propel Market Growth in North America

North America is expected to dominate the Project Portfolio Management Market share due to the rising penetration of advanced technologies. The market in North America was valued at USD 2.02 billion in 2021 and is expected to gain a huge portion of the global market share in the coming years. Furthermore, the robust processing and easy accessibility of PPM may enhance industry progress.

In Asia Pacific, the rising number of players and their focus on expanding their geographical presence are expected to enhance the softwares demand. Furthermore, growing digitalization and technology acceptance is expected to enhance the market growth.





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COVID-19 Impact

Increasing Adoption of Cloud-based Solutions Enhanced Industry Progress

This market was positively impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the rising adoption of cloud-based solutions. The sudden spike in COVID-19 cases led to the closure of manufacturing facilities. This factor led to the adoption of digitization by several companies. The abundance of data and the need for efficient management tools enhanced the adoption of Project Portfolio Management (PPM) services. The softwares adoption allowed manufacturers to effectively execute tasks during the pandemic. These factors influenced the industry growth during the pandemic.

Segments

Software Segment to Dominate Market Share Attributable to High Acceptance of PPM by Vendors

By component, the market is bifurcated into services and software.

The software segment is expected to hold a major market share due to high acceptance of PPM by vendors. Further, the presence of other features with flexible pricing is expected to enhance the software demand.

Cloud-based Deployment Segment to Witness Highest CAGR Owing to Scalability and Flexibility

Based on deployment, the market is segmented into on-premise, cloud-based, and hosted.

The cloud-based segment is expected to grow due to flexible pricing, easy upgrades, accessibility, and maintenance packages. Furthermore, lower costs, flexibility, and scalability are expected to enhance the Project Portfolio Management market growth.

Large Enterprises Segment to Dominate Market Share Due to Strong Demand for Distinct and Complex Workflows

As per enterprise size, the market is classified into large enterprises Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

The large enterprises segment is expected to dominate, attributable to the strong demand for distinct and complex workflows. Further, strong demand for the software due to its ability to maintain commercial competency is expected to bolster the market growth.

Portfolio Dashboards and Analytics Segment to Witness Highest CAGR Owing to its Ability to Prioritize Project Activities

Based on application, the market is categorized into project and portfolio governance, portfolio dashboards and analytics, visibility and reporting, resource management, financial planning and management, and others.

The portfolio dashboard and analytics segment is expected to hold a dominant market share, owing to the softwares ability to prioritize project activities. Further, effective management abilities are expected to enhance the segmental growth.

IT and Telecommunication to Hold Dominant Share Owing to Strong Demand for Project Management Offices

By vertical, the market is classified into IT and telecommunications, BFSI, government, engineering & construction, healthcare, and others.

The IT and telecommunication segment is expected to hold a dominant market share, owing to the strong demand for project management offices. Furthermore, expanding business networks, evolving company needs, and rising corporate rivalry may enhance segmental growth.

Regionally, it is clubbed into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.





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Report Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the top segments and the latest trends in the market. It comprehensively discusses the driving and restraining factors and the impact of COVID-19 on the market. Additionally, it examines the regional developments and the strategies undertaken by the market's key players.

Competitive Landscape

Prominent Players Enter Partnerships to Enhance Brand Image

Prominent players operating in the market enter into partnerships to enhance their brand image. For example, Siemens and SAP partnered to develop Siemens' Teamcenter software in July 2020. This development may increase its client business value and enhance brand image. Furthermore, companies opt for partnerships, mergers, acquisitions, and research & development to bolster their market position.

Companies Profiled in the Project Portfolio Management Market Report

Oracle Corporation (U.S.)

Microsoft Corporation (U.S.)

SAP SE (Germany)

Adobe (Workfront) (U.S.)

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP (U.S.)

Broadcom Inc. (U.S.)

ServiceNow (U.S.)

HEXAGON AB (Sweden)

ATLASSIAN (U.S.)

Planview, Inc. (U.S.)





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Major Points in TOC:

Introduction Definition, By Segment Research Methodology/Approach Data Sources

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Macro and Micro Economic Indicators Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities and Trends Impact of COVID-19 Short-term Impact Long-term Impact

Competition Landscape Business Strategies Adopted by Key Players Consolidated SWOT Analysis of Key Players Global Project Portfolio Management (PPM) Key Players Market Share Insights and Analysis, 2021

Global Project Portfolio Management Market Size Estimates and Forecasts, By Segments, 2018-2029 Key Findings By Component (USD) Software Services Integration and Deployment Training and Consulting Support and Maintenance By Deployment (USD) On-premise Cloud-based Hosted By Enterprise Size (USD) Large Enterprises Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) By Application (USD) Project and Portfolio Governance Portfolio Dashboards and Analytics Visibility and Reporting Resource management Financial Planning and management Others (Time and Risk Management) By Vertical (USD) IT & Telecommunication BFSI Government Engineering & Construction Healthcare Others (Manufacturing, and others) By Region (USD) North America South America Europe Middle East & Africa Asia Pacific

North America Project Portfolio Management (PPM) Market Size Estimates and Forecasts, By Segments, 2018-2029

TOC Continued!





FAQs:

How big is the project portfolio management market?

The global PPM Market size was valued at USD 4.09 billion in 2021 and reached USD 4.29 billion in 2022. The PPM market size is expected to touch USD 7.01 billion by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period.

What are the top players in the PPM Market?

Oracle Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, SAP SE, Adobe, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Development LP, Broadcom Inc., ServiceNow, HEXAGON AB, ATLASSIAN, Planview, Inc.





About Us:

Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them to address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

US :+1 424 253 0390

UK : +44 2071 939123

APAC : +91 744 740 1245
NEW YORK, United States, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Facts and Factors has published a new research report titled Dental Insurance Market By Insurance Type (Basic/Minor, Major & Preventive), By Mode of Distribution (Corporates, Insurance Agents and Online Channel), and By End-User (Families and Individuals): Global Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis, and Forecast, 2021-2027 in its research database.

According to the latest research study, the demand of global Dental Insurance Market size & share in terms of revenue was valued at USD 168.27 billion in 2020 and it is expected to surpass around USD 289.85 billion mark by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 10.65% during the forecast period 2021 to 2027.

What is Dental Insurance? How big is the Dental InsuranceIndustry?

Report Overview:

Dental insurance is a type of medical insurance that only covers a person's dental or oral health and reimburses individuals for any dental charges they incur. Preferred provider organizations (PPO), dental health maintenance organizations (DHMO), and indemnity policies are some of the more comprehensive dental insurance coverage options. Dental insurance can help cover the cost of dental treatment, ranging from fundamental preventative care to significant dental repair, but the specifics of the plan and the coverage it provides determine whether this is the case.

This industry does not include reinsurance of dental plans; however, revenue from all dental insurance providers, such as commercial health insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid, is included. This sector does not include reinsurance of dental plans. The global dental insurance market is growing because of a number of things, such as the high cost of dental procedures, the fast rise of dental problems around the world, and more people becoming aware of how important it is to have dental insurance.

Click Here To AccessFree Sample Report of the Global Dental Insurance Market @ https://www.fnfresearch.com/sample/dental-insurance-market



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Our Free Sample Report Consists of the Following:

Introduction, Overview, and in-depth industry analysis are all included in the 2021 updated report.

The COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak Impact Analysis is included in the package

About 187+ Pages Research Report (Including Recent Research)

Provide detailed chapter-by-chapter guidance on Request

Updated Regional Analysis with Graphical Representation of Size, Share, and Trends for the Year 2021

Includes Tables and figures have been updated

The most recent version of the report includes the Top Market Players, their Business Strategies, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis

Facts and Factors research methodology

(Please note that the sample of this report has been modified to include the COVID-19 impact study prior to delivery.)

Market Drivers

High occurrence of oral ailments to steer the market expansion

Oral disorders are common non-communicable ailments and can impact people throughout their lifespan causing pain as well as discomfort. Many of the oral ailments include tooth decay, oral cancers, periodontal disorders, oro-dental trauma, oral manifestations of HIV, noma, and cleft lip & palate. They account for a large part of the oral ailment burden. All these factors are expected to steer the growth of the dental insurance market over the forecast timeline.

Moreover, escalating cases of oral disorders witnessed among the geriatric population are predicted to generate awareness pertaining to dental insurance among individuals as a result of recurrent dental treatment for oral disorders. This, in turn, will boost market growth trends. Apart from this, high costs of dental treatments are likely to boost the expansion of the dental insurance industry over the forecast timeline. Nevertheless, growing medical tourism activities across the globe will inhibit the growth of the market over the forecast period.

Browse the full Dental Insurance Market By Insurance Type (Basic/Minor, Major & Preventive), By Mode of Distribution (Corporates, Insurance Agents and Online Channel), and By End-User (Families and Individuals): Global Industry Perspective, Comprehensive Analysis, and Forecast, 2021-2027 Report at https://www.fnfresearch.com/dental-insurance-market



Dental Insurance Market: COVID-19 Impact Analysis

During the COVID-19 outbreak, dental insurance providers have been largely affected, which has resulted in massive loss for insurers across the country. This is due to the fact that consecutive lockdowns, social distancing norms, and an increased number of COVID-19 positive cases have all been occurring.

Dental Insurance Market: SegmentationAnalysis

Basic/Minor segment to dominate the insurance type landscape

The basic/Minor segment is predicted to register the highest growth in terms of both revenue and CAGR. It is likely to record the highest CAGR of nearly 5.6% during the period from 2021 to 2027. The segment offers coverage to major dental problems like emergency care for stainless steel (prefabricated) crowns, root canal treatment, periodontal surgery, periodontal scaling & root planning, routine tooth extractions, pain relief, recementing dental crowns, composite fillings, sedative fillings, and non-routine x-rays.

Corporates segment to contribute majorly towards the overall market growth

The corporates segment is expected to accrue proceeds worth nearly USD 100 billion by 2027. Moreover, dental insurances are directly purchased by the corporate firms and they are provided in groups in the various corporate offices. In addition to this, corporate dental insurances have become the latest trend. All these aspects will steer the segmental growth over the forecast period.

The global Dental Insurance market is segmented as follows:

By Insurance Type

Basic/minor

Major

Preventive

By Mode of Distribution

Corporates

Insurance Agents

Online Channel

By End-User

Families

Individuals

Directly Purchase a copy of the report with TOC @ https://www.fnfresearch.com/buynow/su/dental-insurance-market



Competitive Landscape

Some of the main competitors dominating the global Dental Insurance market include -

Aetna Inc.

Aflac Incorporated

Ameritas

Allianz

AXA

Cigna

Delta Dental

Envivas

Humana

HDFC ERGO Health Insurance Ltd. (Apollo Munich)

MetLife Services and Solutions LLC

OneExchange

3M

United HealthCare Services Inc.

and Others/among others

Key Insights from Primary Research:

According to the analysis shared by our research forecaster, the Dental Insurance market is likely to expand at a CAGR of around 10.65% during the forecast period (2021-2027).

In terms of revenue, the Dental Insurance market size was valued at around US$ 168.27 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach US$ 289.85 billion by 2027.

The corporate segment is expected to accrue proceeds worth nearly USD 100 billion by 2027.

In the coming years, dental insurance companies should benefit from the development of existing goods and services and technological advancements.

On the basis of geography, approximately 41% of the market was accounted for by the North American region.

Key questions answered in this report:

What is the market size and growth rate forecast for Dental Insurance industry?

What are the main driving factors propelling the Dental Insurance Market forward?

What are the leading companies in the Dental Insurance Industry?

What segments does the Dental Insurance Market cover?

How can I receive a free copy of the Dental Insurance Market sample report and company profiles?

Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.fnfresearch.com/inquiry/dental-insurance-market



Regional Analysis:

North America to lead the overall market revenue growth

The regional market expansion is credited to the high presence of the key industry players in the region along with high consciousness pertaining to the advantages of purchasing dental insurance in the region. Apart from this, huge costs of dental treatments in countries like the U.S. have forced people to purchase dental insurance.

Key players involved in dental insurance business include Nippon Life Insurance Company, United HealthCare Services, Inc., Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company, MetLife Services and Solutions, EnvivasKrankenversicherung AG, Zurich Insurance Company Group, Cigna, Aetna, Inc., American International Group, Inc., AXA, Ameritas Life Insurance Corp., Delta Dental, AFLAC INCORPORATED, LLC (MetLife, Inc.), and Allstate Benefits.

By Region

North America U.S. Canada Rest of North America

Europe France UK Spain Germany Italy Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific China Japan India South Korea Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa Saudi Arabia South Africa Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America Brazil Argentina Rest of Latin America



Report Scope

Report Attribute Details Market Size in 2020 USD 168.27 Billion Projected Market Size in 2027 USD 289.85 Billion CAGR Growth Rate 10.65% CAGR Base Year 2020 Forecast Years 2021-2027 Key Market Players Aetna Inc., Aflac Incorporated, Ameritas, Allianz, AXA, Cigna, Delta Dental, Envivas, Humana, HDFC ERGO Health Insurance Ltd. (Apollo Munich), MetLife Services and Solutions, LLC, OneExchange, 3M, United HealthCare Services, Inc., and Others/among others Key Segment By Insurance Type, By Mode of Distribution, By End-User, and By Region Major Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa Purchase Options Request customized purchase options to meet your research needs.

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Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20212027

Market Dynamics  Leading Trends, Growth Drivers, Restraints, and Investment Opportunities

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by Insurance Type, Mode of Distribution, End-User, and Region

Competitive Landscape  Top Key Vendors and Other Prominent Vendors

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SEATTLE, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Almas Insight, a company that provides data-driven solutions for organizations to measure needed human skills in the job market, today announces the addition of Michael Griffiths as an advisor. Griffiths is a principal at Deloitte Consulting LLP with Deloitte's Workforce Development practice in North America. With this addition, Almas will be able to leverage Griffiths' deep experience and industry understanding of how organizations hire more strategically, reorganize more efficiently and compete more effectively with objective, data-driven employee insight.

Griffiths brings more than 20 years of experience in leading key programs for market-leading clients, with work across industries  ranging from mergers and acquisitions, leadership development, and workforce transformations for leading firms. He is a thought leader across workforce transformation and has won industry recognition including both the Brandon Hall and Chief Learning Officer awards. Prior to Deloitte, Griffiths was the Global Strategy Lead for Learning Solutions at Accenture. Griffiths' experience helping global organizations transform and adapt their talent strategies to new market conditions by utilizing cutting-edge technology is virtually unparalleled.

At Deloitte, an organization with differentiated services and solutions in learning, leadership development, knowledge management, and skills-based transformations, Griffiths works with global clients to build high-performance businesses that drive growth and optimization through talent and learning. He is also the lead for Deloitte's "Human Capital Trends" for 2022. All of this experience combined makes him a welcomed advisor to Almas, a company centered on utilizing human capital data to better manage and develop organizational workforces.

Almas Insight offers a cutting-edge, immersive, game-based product that combines contextual video, situational simulation, and cognitive tests to measure more than a dozen high-demand human skills fast. The company was formed to bring this decade of research to businesses and was promptly funded by Learn Capital  the world's largest human development venture fund. Through research conducted by the University of Washington, Almas demonstrated with a nationally representative sample that users broadly prefer this measurement method. More importantly, it helps to reduce socioeconomic biases inherent in our current employment system and has seen validity exceeding all other methods tested.

"Adding a human capital leader like Michael Griffiths to our advisory board is a clear next step for our work at Almas and will accelerate our ability to help global organizations," said Rob Savette, co-founder of Almas Insight. "We have an outstanding technology solution that can help employees while simultaneously saving organizations significant amounts of capital. As organizations face the extraordinary talent challenges presented by the current economic climate, our complete focus will be on getting our solution into the hands of as many human capital and executive leaders as quickly as possible."

"Most organizations are facing critical new workforce challenges the last few years. These new challenges require new workforce solutions," said Griffiths. "Human skill measurement is one of the key trends I see as necessary in this market transformation. Workplace research has shown this is a critical component to hiring, success, development, and, critically, tenure for employees."

About Almas Insight

Almas offers a cutting-edge approach to integrating objective human-driven data into the hiring and workforce management market, using an immersive, game-based digital work sample to measure more than a dozen high-demand human capabilities. By utilizing the Almas Insight analytics platform, companies can better determine where employees and candidates are a good fit, identify high-performance individuals, streamline reorganization efforts, build more effective professional growth plans, and gain a greater understanding of workforce attrition. This opens a new channel of understanding between employees and employers  accelerating the business world into a more informed, healthier, equitable, and sustainable future.

Contact

Emily Senkosky

emily@almasinsight.com

+1 (208)- 850-1195

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Xiaomi Mix Fold 2 is launching this August amid the upcoming debut of its rival, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4.

The Chinese phone maker, Xiaomi, announced the launch of its all-new foldable smartphone in its recent post on Weibo, a widely-used social media platform in the Asian country.

Xiaomi MIX Fold 2 Launches This August

Xiaomi has confirmed in its latest video teaser of the MIX Fold 2 that its upcoming flagship foldable device is launching this month in China.

According to a recent report by Sam Mobile, the recent Weibo post from the China-based tech firm also disclosed that Xiaomi is gearing to introduce the all-new Buds 4 Pro wireless earphones in August.

Besides the new earphones and foldable phones, Xiaomi also teased a new tablet offering, the Xiaomi Pad 5 Pro, which launches on the same day.

As per the latest story from Mashable, the renowned tech giant left scant details regarding its upcoming foldable smartphone.

Nevertheless, the Weibo post revealed that it looks hugely similar to the design of the yet-to-be-released Samsung foldable.

And it appears that Xiaomi is bringing its cameras to the next level, thanks to its partnership with Leica. However, it is to note that the teaser kept mum about the specs of its shooters.

As such, the latest post left out the explicit specifications of the upcoming device. So we might need to wait for its launch in the next few days to get an official list of its specs, such as the processor, display, and overall design.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 Launch

The launch of the new folding phone interestingly occurs on the same day that Samsung is also unveiling its new foldable devices, such as the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and the Galaxy Z Flip 4.

The Xiaomi MIX Fold 4 is debuting on the same day as the Samsung Unpacked event, which occurs on Aug. 10.

The Unpacked event also headlines the all-new Galaxy Watch 5. But no less than the president of Samsung, TM Roh, confirmed that it would focus on its new foldable mobile devices.

Read Also: Xiaomi Mi Mix 4 Rumor Reveals Epic Wireless Charging Speed: Zero to 100% in 19 Minutes? [Specs, Release Date, Leaks]

Foldable Smartphone Launch This August

It is worth noting that another foldable smartphone is seeing the light of day this August as well, sharing the spotlight with Xiaomi and Samsung.

The clamshell phone offering of Motorola, the Moto RAZR 2022, is debuting a day after the Galaxy Unpacked 2022 event of Samsung.

Both the MIX Fold 4 and the RAZR 2022 would initially be available in the Chinese market.

Related Article: Xiaomi vs Apple: Xiaomi Aims To Battle Apple in Becoming The World's Top Smartphone Vendor
TOWSON, Md., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PM Consulting Group (PMCG), a Maryland-based firm that delivers international development, advanced healthcare solutions, and mission support services to federal and state government clients, today announced the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) increased its previously awarded five-year Middle East North Africa (MENA) blanket purchase agreement (BPA) with PMCG to a maximum value of $100 million.



PMCG will support USAIDs work with European allies and partners on the front lines of the humanitarian response to Russias invasion of Ukraine, including responding to the needs of internally displaced persons within Ukraine. This work can include humanitarian assistance, institutional support services, technology support, and translation services across Ukraine, Belarus, and Moldova.

Ukraine is living through a nightmare thats hard to imagine in modern times. History will judge us all by how we respond, and its a true honor to be asked to help on the front lines of the humanitarian response, said Tony Kronfli, international operations director of PMCG. This is some of the most important work of our lives, and the PMCG team is fully committed to this undertaking.

PMCG supports USAID programs globally with in-country surge support to address political, developmental, and reconstruction needs. Considering the works urgency, USAID determined that the MENA BPA is the fastest way to access PMCG staff in the region and tap into the companys extensive network of regional partners.

PMCGs Warsaw office is at the hub of international organizations clustering in Polands capital city, said PMCG Director for Europe and Eurasia Mike Staresinic. The entire company is behind this effort, and we are confident that our work through USAID will provide some needed safety and support during an unimaginably hard time for millions.

To learn more about USAIDs work in Ukraine, visit https://www.usaid.gov/usaid-response-ukraine.

About PM Consulting Group

PM Consulting Group (PMCG) is a Maryland-based firm that specializes in international development, advanced healthcare solutions, and mission support services. Visit PMCG at www.pmcgllc.com.

PMCG contracting vehicles: OASIS SB/8a Pool 1 (47QRAD20D1060/47QRAD20D8121); GSA 8a STARS III (47QTCB22D0222); and GSA MAS (GS-00F-166GA)

Contact:

Jane Bryant

Spire Communications for PM Consulting Group

(571) 235-4822

jbryant@spirecomm.com
IRVING, Texas, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- U.S. Oral Surgery Management (USOSM) congratulates its surgeon partner Jeffrey D. Schultz, DDS, MMS, on his recent appointment by Governor Brian P. Kemp to serve on the Georgia Board of Dentistry.



Dr. Schultz and four others were named to the board to fill seats created by the enactment of House Bill 1219 (Act 840), which was signed into law in May 2022 and went into effect in July 2022. Effective immediately, the new board members will serve a term that expires July 1, 2027. The board now consists of 16 members.

The Georgia Board of Dentistry is responsible for regulating dental and dental hygiene licenses and ensuring that each candidate has an acceptable amount of education, training and personal character to safely practice in Georgia. In addition, the board sets and defines safety standards and identifies and sanctions those who fall short.

It is an honor to be recognized and asked to accept an appointment to the Georgia Board of Dentistry, said Dr. Schultz. Its also crucial for our particular specialty to have representation on state boards of dentistry and unfortunately, not every state does. In Georgia, we now have two, myself and Dr. Glenn Maron of Atlanta, who also is a USOSM surgeon partner. Having this kind of representation is vital for the dental industry as a whole, as well as for the patients we advocate for. It also means that we can stay apprised of what is legislatively being discussed and help ensure that the right kind of processes are in place to continue providing the citizens of Georgia with the dental care they deserve.

One of my areas of interest is in the field of anesthesia, continued Dr. Schultz. So one of my goals is assisting our dentists, surgeons and their staffs to keep up-to-date on the rapidly changing dental anesthesia environment, especially as it pertains to patient safety. It is vital work, and Im honored to be a part of it.

Dr. Schultz is a practicing oral surgeon with South Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, a USOSM partner practice with locations in Newnan, Peachtree City, and Fayetteville. All of which are in the greater Atlanta area. Dr. Schultz has been in private practice since 1996 and was an associate professor of surgery at the Emory University School of Medicine from 1999 to 2020. He also is a diplomat of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the National Dental Board of Anesthesiology, as well as a member and past president of the Georgia Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

In addition, Dr. Schultz is a fellow of the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, the International Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), where he has served in a number of important roles. He currently represents Georgia in the AAOMS House of Delegates. Additionally, he is a member of the American Dental Association, the Georgia Dental Association, the Southeastern Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the national dental honor society. He is on staff at Piedmont Newnan Hospital, Grady Memorial Hospital and the CHOA hospitals.

Dr. Schultz earned his undergraduate degree from Washington & Jefferson College and his masters and dental degrees from Emory University. He also completed his residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery through Emory University and its affiliated hospitals.

Dr. Schultz is an exceptional oral surgeon and strong industry leader, who is well-known and highly respected for his experience, wisdom, dedication to clinical excellence and compassion for patients. In addition, he is one of the industrys leading experts on anesthesia use for OMS, said Richard Hall, USOSM president and CEO. It is a tremendous honor and responsibility to be named to a state board of dentistry and were excited to congratulate Dr. Schultz for this significant achievement.

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, USOSM has partner practices spanning 19 states. They include Texas, Colorado, Georgia, Tennessee, Minnesota, Alabama, Oklahoma, Louisiana, South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Arizona, California, Oregon, Virginia, Washington and Massachusetts. A shared services organization, USOSM collaborates with premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons to offer a partnership solution for continued and accelerated practice success. USOSM provides operational, marketing and administrative support services, reinvests resources, and applies best practices to improve clinical and financial performance and produce steadier, more profitable growth for all. For more information, visit https://www.usosm.com/.

Contact:

Lyle Rountree

U.S. Oral Surgery Management

214-289-3799

Lyle.Rountree@usosm.com
NEW YORK, NEW YORK, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Omsom, the proud and loud Asian pantry staple brand founded by first-generation Vietnamese-American sisters and daughters of refugees, Vanessa and Kim Pham, debuts its products in grocery nationwide catapulted by an exclusive partnership with Whole Foods Market. Omsom, which has earned a cult following, amassing over 1,000+ 5-star reviews, selling out 15 times since its direct-to-consumer launch in May 2020, and boasting 90% organic growth with a 30% customer return rate, has intensified its tactics to shake up the ethnic aisle  this time, from the inside out.

After two years of working to bust the ethnic aisle, landing within it on a national scale feels both ironic, but also a big first step in the right direction. To receive such a large platform to tell our story and the opportunity to shake up the category is the gift we always knew we deserved, says co-founder Kim Pham. Were excited to continue to debunk the tropes that paint the legacy of Asian American food - that its cheap, unhealthy, or so exotic that it cant be eaten weekly. This is just the beginning.

Omsom marries complex flavors and its commitment to cultural integrity with ultimate convenience. Their rip-and-pour sauces can be paired with any protein or produce (with instructions on the package), yielding complete dishes that take a maximum of 20 minutes to cook. While Omsoms Krapow, Vietnamese BBQ, Yuzu Misoyaki, and Spicy Bulgogi will sit side by side with more widely-known counterparts like Teriyaki, Oyster, and Soy Sauce in the ethnic aisle, the Omsom brandfrom flavor to voicechallenges the status quo in every way. The brands new retail packaging features dish names in Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Thai languages, ingredient call-outs like Starring Korean Chili and Gochujang Pear, and a QR code that drives to Omsoms site with a personal message from Omsoms co-founder, Kim. This re-formulated packaging combines the fiery branding that Omsom has become known for with crave-worthy photos of the final meal on the front of the sachets, meant to make shoppers stop in their tracks. A notable 33% increase in pouch size not only caters to family and grocery-friendly portion sizes, but also provides value to customers in a time marked by rising prices and shrinking sizes across the industry.

Since launching on the heels of the pandemic, Omsom has boldly and unapologetically embodied its mission of reclaiming the multitudes of Asian flavors through every facet of business  from exponential and tone-setting community engagement (theyve earned 340% YoY growth on social media channels) and progressivist, forward-thinking messaging about antiquated and prejudice tropes associated with the ethnic aisle. Their stance is mirrored in each of their productsfrom the sauce thats most personal to them, Vietnamese Lemongrass BBQ, to Thai Krapow, which was the first product to proudly boast MSG with the goal of busting the stigma around the misunderstood ingredient. As a result, the two-year-old brand carries consistent, powerful buzz that has proven to make lasting waves. Omsom is the recipient of The Kitchns Kitchen Essentials Grocery award, NOSHs Best New Product'' and Best Packaging Design awards, and was named one of Fast Companys Most Innovative Companies with fewer than just 10 employees. Their fresh take on the ethnic aisle made a full-bleed page of the New York Times, strategic partnerships with Disney, Instant Pot, and Chopt advanced their path of bringing Asian flavors to more American households, and as of January 2022, Omsom was cited as a source for Whole30 on the decision to reverse their stance on MSG.

Folks arent always ready for what we have to say as a WOC-led brand so, since the beginning, we knew that being as proud and loud as we are was a risky bet. But we know its been a risk worth taking and one thats been deeply rewarding  challenging palates and some of the long-standing misconceptions about Asian cuisines, says co-founder and CEO, Vanessa Pham. Were grateful to be a part of a larger conversation around Asian-American cultureit truly feels like the perfect time to leverage our incredible momentum and make the move into mainstream grocery.

Kim Pham leads the brand charge with a background in brand and community in startups, while Bain & Company alumna Vanessa Pham is CEO, spearheading strategy, operations, and product. The companys national footprint is not only the result of the hard work of the founding team, but a powerful step in the right direction in giving Asian flavors the prevalence they deserve, both in and outside of urban markets. As of August 9, Omsom can be purchased direct to consumer and at 650 retailers across 45 states, including 490 Whole Foods stores.

SRP: $3.49

About Omsom

Omsom is an Asian pantry staple brand that makes cooking real Asian dishes with uncompromised flavors and hard-to-find ingredients possible in any home kitchen. Each of their rip-and-pour starter packets includes all the specialty sauces, aromatics, citruses, and oils that are the foundation of Asian dishes. In addition to their chef-driven dish starters, Omsom has also released flavors in partnership with Disney in celebration of Raya and the Last Dragon, Pepper Teigen to destigmatize MSG (monosodium glutamate) and debunk the harmful stereotypes associated with the ingredient, and Instant Pot to help make Asian flavors even more accessible through an appliance that holds a place in  American homes. Omsom is a recipient of The Kitchns 2021 Kitchen Essentials Grocery award, NOSH Best of 2020 award for both Best New Product'' and Best Packaging Design, and Fast Companys Smooth Moves award, recognized as the top small business powering the future of retail.

About Vanessa Pham, CEO and Co-Founder of Omsom

Vanessa is the CEO and co-founder of Omsom, the daughter of Vietnamese refugees, and a Bain & Company and Harvard alum. At Bain & Company, she advised Fortune 500 CPGs on their growth and retail strategy as a management consultant. Outside of Omsom, Vanessa speaks on entrepreneurship and heart-forward leadership at organizations like General Mills and Pepsi, mentors BIPOC founders, and finds joy in cooking all things fermented, caramelized, and braised. She has been recognized as Forbes 30 Under 30 and Create & Cultivate 100. @vanessatpham, @omsom

About Kim Pham, Co-Founder of Omsom

Kim is a co-founder of Omsom and a longtime human of the Internet. She has been building community in early-stage startups and venture capital since she was 16. Kim graduated from New York University, where she was the first female president of Tech@NYU and founding partner of Dorm Room Fund NYC. Prior to co-founding Omsom, Kim was most recently Head of Platform at Frontline Ventures in London, where she was named one of Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2017. When shes not over-using garlic in recipes or biking around Brooklyn, you can find Kim thinking about the reclamation of Asian cuisines + stories, sex positivity in modern society, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Attachments
Washington, DC, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA ALERT

International Summit in South Korea

Toward Peace on the Korean Peninsula: Toward a World Culture of Peace

The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) is hosting Summit 2022 and Leadership Conference, a five-day international summit with related peace events at the Jamsil Lotte Hotel in Seoul, South Korea, beginning this week.





World leaders from dozens of countries are gathering from August 11-15, 2022, to address paths to global peace, with a special emphasis on Africa, the Asia Pacific Region and reconciliation between North and South Korea.





A highlight of the August 12 opening ceremony is a presentation of a resolution to propose the development of a Peace Charter, which follows on the foundation of the Seoul Resolution signed at World Summit 2022 (February 2022) in Seoul by former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen.





Prominent international speakers will include: Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper, Canadian Prime Minister (2006-2015); Hon. Newt Gingrich, US House Speaker (1995-1999); Hon. Mike Pompeo, US Secretary of State (2018-2021); Hon. Dan Burton, US Congressman (1983-2013); and H.E. Brigi Rafini, Executive General, Community of Sahel-Saharan States and Prime Minister (2011-2021), Niger.





Later that same day, participants will hear about a recent UPF Fact-Finding Delegation for Peace on the Korean Peninsula from experts on Korea, including Gen. Walter Sharp, Commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command and US Forces Korea (2008-2011); Amb. Harry Harris, US Ambassador to Korea (2018-2021); and Amb. Joseph DeTrani, Special Envoy, Six-Party Talks with DPRK (2003-2006). In addition, a special program will feature The Washington Times, now celebrating its 40th anniversary.





Multiple sessions will cover peace efforts in Africa, and feature a Resolution endorsed by African Religious Representatives and led by Imboni Prophet Radebe, founder of The Revelation Spiritual Home in South Africa.





Afternoon sessions will include presentations on threats to religious freedom across the globe that features Pastor Paula White-Cain, Senior Pastor, City of Destiny Church in the US; Hon. Jan Figel, European Union Special Envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion (2016-2019); and Dr. Massimo Introvigne, Managing Director, Center for Studies on New Religions, Italy.





On Saturday, August 13, symposia will be held around themes of unified Korea, a peaceful world, harmonizing science and religion, the womens movement, youth character education, and the role of the media and economics in the 21st century.





On Sunday, August 14, participants will travel to the HJ Global Arts Center in Seorak, outside of Seoul, for a special program hosted by Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon honoring her late husband and UPF co-founder, Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and his lifelong efforts to establish peace around the world.





In addition to UPF International Chair Dr. Thomas G. Walsh, the summits dozens of speakers will include Sheikh Mansour Diouf, Senegal; Hon. Ibrahim Natatou, Minister of Education, Niger; Hon. Hamza Said Hamza, Minister of Youth and Sports, Somalia; Hon. Adi Koila Nailitikau, First Lady (2009-2015), Fiji; Hon. Mwaba Tony, Minister of Higher Education, DR Congo; Hon. Neziha Labidi, Minister of Women, Family and Children (2016-2020), Tunisia; H.E. Dr. Sok Siphana, Chairman, Asian Vision Institute, Cambodia; Jim Rogers, Chairman of Beeland Interests, Inc.; Bishop Don Meares, Senior Pastor, Evangel Cathedral, USA; H.E. Callista Mutharika, First Lady (2010-2012), Malawi; Dr. Song Yong-cheon, Chair, Sunhak Foundation; Dr. Hwang Sun-jo, President, Sun Moon University; and Dr. Yun Young Ho, Director General, FFWPU International.





UPF is an NGO with General Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. It has been hosting dozens of forums and events that promote peacebuilding with leaders of 157 nations that have diplomatic ties to North and/or South Korea, in an effort to explore prospects for the peaceful reconciliation of the Korean Peninsula. The Royal Government of Cambodia has been a co-host to some of these events.





The August 11-15 events will have in-person speakers and participants, as well as a large global audience who will join digitally via a high-tech hybrid format.





UPFs works through a set of peacebuilding associations segmented into seven field-based organizations:

International Summit Council for Peace (ISCP) and the International Association of First Ladies for Peace (IAFLP)

International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP)

Interreligious Association for Peace and Development (IAPD)

International Association for Peace and Economic Development (IAED)

International Media Association for Peace (IMAP)

International Association of Academicians for Peace (IAAP)

International Association of Arts and Culture for Peace (IAACP)



For media inquiries, please contact:

William P. Selig | Communications Director, Universal Peace Federation

Ph: 240-274-1744 | Email: wselig@upf.org | Web: www.upf.org

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Costa Mesa, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Costa Mesa, California -

Costa Mesa, CA  Federal agents seized an astounding 5,000 pounds of methamphetamine and charged four men with drug trafficking in Southern California. Resurgence Behavioral Health, an addiction treatment center based in Costa Mesa, applauds the agents vigilance but sees the arrests as proof that the tragedy of meth addiction has not diminished.

According to news reports, a group of Mexican nationals brought the drug into the U.S. from Otay Mesa, near Tijuana. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of California said agents saw the men remove dozens of cardboard boxes from a truck and place them in a Dodge van. They said the two vehicles contained about 148 bundles of a material that tested positive for meth, weighing more than 5,000 pounds, which they called record-breaking and said may be one of San Diego Countys largest meth busts in history.

The four men were arrested and charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, classified as a schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for dependency and recreational abuse. If convicted, they face stiff penalties, including a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $10 million fine.

This monumental seizure represents another win against drug cartels that fuel addiction in the United States, said Shelly S. Howe, DEA Special Agent in Charge, in a statement issued with the U.S. Attorneys announcement of the bust. Because of our great partnerships with other law enforcement agencies, we will continue to disrupt the cartels flow of drugs into our cities.

The bust comes at a crisis point in meth addiction in the US. Deaths connected to meth use spiked by nearly 180% from 2015 to 2019, according to a study published recently in JAMA Psychiatry, a journal of the American Medical Association. Meth represents a large share of deaths from all drug overdoses. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 96,000 Americans died from drug overdoses in 2020. Of those, about 15-20% involved methamphetamines.

Like opioids, much of the methamphetamine supply is being contaminated by the synthetic opioid fentanyl, which experts say is fueling the rapid rise in meth overdoses. In the wake of these troubling findings, addiction experts have called for more research and funding for effective methamphetamine treatment.

Meth is one of the substances that Resurgence targets in its treatment of drug and alcohol addiction and related mental health disorders. Meth treatment programs begin with medically supervised detox to rid the body of drug toxins. Both residential and outpatient rehab is offered, but the residential option is often whats recommended for meth addiction. Living at the center during treatment enables the client to better confront the complex issues presented by their addiction without the distractions and pressures of daily life. Inpatient rehab also provides a safe space where clients are helped to discover the underlying causes of their addiction. Treatment programs include behavioral therapy, 12 Step integration, and even virtual therapy. Treatment is custom-designed for each clients individual needs, working through the unique physical, psychological and neurological challenges posed by their addiction. Treatment can last several weeks, months, or even longer, depending on the addictions severity and other factors.

After inpatient treatment, clients move to outpatient therapy or another level of care, depending on where they are in their recovery journey.

Resurgences clinical team is made up of addiction treatment experts who provide a comfortable, compassionate environment where meth addiction can be overcome with the best treatment available.

Anyone searching for addiction treatment for themselves or a loved one may begin the recovery process by visiting Resurgence Behavioral Health online or calling 855-458-0050.





###

For more information about Resurgence Alcohol & Drug Rehab Costa Mesa, contact the company here:



Resurgence Alcohol & Drug Rehab Costa Mesa

+19498996003
FRISCO, TEXAS., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HXPN, Inc., (OTC PINK: HXPN), an emerging technology and mineral resources development company, today announced that it has recently closed the acquisition of a twenty-five percent (25%) working interest in a producing oil field on State of Louisiana mineral leases located in south Louisiana in Jefferson and St Charles Parishes. The Bayou Villars field, discovered in 1955 and currently owned by Northcoast Oil Company of Covington, La (Northcoast) and operated by ExPert Oil & Gas, LLC of Madisonville, La (ExPert), has produced almost 700,000 barrels of oil since Northcoast drilled two wells in 2003 and 2004. Reserves in the remaining behind-pipe and undeveloped sands are estimated at just over one million barrels, with over 466,000 of the reserve barrels classified as proved and the remainder as probable. ExPert will complete a thru-tubing plugback in an existing wellbore next month and the production rate in the previously unproduced zone is expected to be 150 barrels of oil per day. Other future projects include a side-track from an existing wellbore to other proved reserves in early 2023, which is expected to double the fields daily production rate to approximately 300 barrels per day. The 2023 sidetrack project, if successful, will reclassify the remaining 500,000 plus reserve barrels from probable to proved. A new well that will access these newly-proved reserves is expected to be drilled in the field at a yet-to-be-determined future date. The Net Revenue Interest of HXPNs Working Interest is 72% and the first revenue from the anticipated September 2022 re-completion should be realized by the Company prior to year-end 2022, as all production facilities are already in place and operational. The Company will record its proportionate share of the proved reserves in its 2nd quarter financial statements.



We are very excited to have the opportunity to work with the Northcoast and ExPert teams on this excellent project said Steve Bailey, President and CEO of HXPN. Having worked previously with both of these organizations for over the last ten years prior to coming to HXPN, I know that HXPN and its shareholders can expect nothing but top-tier service and professionalism with the forthcoming projects.

The Company also announces the re-location of its primary offices to Frisco, TX, the growing business center just north of Dallas, TX. Said Bailey, Frisco represents the high-growth and exciting business environment of which a growth company like HXPN desires to be a contributing factor.

About HXPN, Inc.

Based in Frisco, Texas, HXPN is engaged in the acquisition and development of emerging technologies that will impact everyday life. Additionally, the Company seeks to acquire mineral resources necessary for the production of energy that will enable the sustainability of daily life in our ever-changing world.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release may contain "forward-looking statements," as that term is defined in Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Statements in this news release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions for the future. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, the ongoing effect(s) of domestic and world economic conditions and any related impact(s) on the potential business development and future interest in our technology and resources investments.

Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. Such factors include, among others, general economic and political conditions, and other domestic and world events. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and we assume no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although we believe that the beliefs, plans, expectations and intentions contained in this news release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate.

HXPN, Inc is currently a non-reporting OTC-quoted Pink Limited Information company, and has achieved compliance with recently-amended SEC Rule 15c2-11, which requires that companies make current information publicly available to maintain a market. Investors should consult all information set forth herein and on the Companys website for the latest available information.

CONTACT:

HXPN, Inc.

Stephen L. Bailey, President

6136 Frisco Square Boulevard, Suite 400

Frisco, TX 75034

(833) 250-6645

Investors & Analysts Contact:

HXPN Investor Relations

(833) 250-6645

ir@hxpninc.com

For more information, visit HXPN's website: www.hxpninc.com
NEW YORK, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Planck , a leading AI-powered business intelligence platform, unveiled a new risk search engine built specifically for commercial insurance research.



Plancks newly developed risk search engine solves for the shortcomings of traditional research methods, which are ineffective and time consuming. Relevant answers are often buried or simply do not exist in the public sphere. The proprietary solution returns real-time results mined from billions of public sources and unindexed government records. Accessible via an on-demand web application or API integration, the complete and up-to-date digital presence of a business is returned in aggregate.

Underwriters no longer need to spend hours of valuable time reading endless pages of information meant for everyday consumers, said Noa Kalechstain, Vice President of Product Strategy at Planck. Planck is the only platform that provides the focused, relevant web results they need about the businesses they writewith just a single search query.

Results can be sorted by source type, including a map outlining additional geospatial risk data. Further refinement capabilities are built-in to enable underwriters to filter within the offered results and uncover answers to their specific underwriting questions.

Our platform is built to understand risk and go beyond basic, firmographic business data. This streamlined access to vital information empowers insurers with a complete picture of a business to make critical underwriting decisions quickly and accurately so they can pivot to the more complicated challenges, Kalechstain stated.

With the embedded feedback feature, users can easily train the returned insights to inform their individual search engine algorithm models and ensure future results are prioritized based on the insurer's specific needs. The out-of-the-box risk search engine is available today and can be onboarded quickly for both new and existing customers.

Top insurance companies in the US, Europe and Japan are already benefiting from Plancks offerings, such as Attune , Chubb , Republic Indemnity (Great American Insurance Group) and Sompo .

The suite of benefits from Planck continues to grow and additional products are scheduled to launch throughout 2022.

About Planck

Planck, an automated AI-powered data platform for commercial insurance, has solved the industry's long-standing need for real-time accuracy and truth. Planck enables insurers to drive service and underwriting excellence by connecting the most up-to-date insights, with just a business name and address. Global carriers, MGAs and insurtechs leverage Plancks holistic solution for customer acquisition and growth strategies, submission prefilling and validation, underwriting new business, renewing existing policies, premium auditing and more. The platform makes managing risk much faster and more predictable, resulting in increased written premium while reducing loss and expense ratios.

Planck was founded by a team of relentless entrepreneurs with extensive backgrounds in insurance and technology and has almost 100 employees globally. The company has raised $50 million to-date led by 3L Capital, Greenfield Partners, Arbor Ventures, Viola Fintech, Team8 and Eight Roads.

For more information, visit www.planckdata.com .
DUBLIN, Ireland, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Facts and Factors has published a new research report titled Corporate Travel Insurance Market Size, Share, Growth Analysis Report By Coverage Type (Single-Trip Travel Insurance and Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance), By Distribution Channels (Insurance Intermediaries, Banks, Insurance Companies, Insurance Aggregators, Insurance Brokers,and Others), By End User (Senior Citizens, Education Travelers, Business Travelers, Family Travelers, and Others), and By Region - Global and Regional Industry Insights, Overview, Comprehensive Analysis, Trends, Statistical Research, Market Intelligence, Historical Data and Forecast 2022  2028 in its research database.

According to the latest research study, the demand of global Corporate Travel Insurance Market size & share in terms of revenue was worth of USD 3,729.40 million in 2021 and it is expected to surpass around USD 10,274.23 million mark by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 18.40% during the forecast period 2022 to 2028.

What is Corporate Travel Insurance? How big is the Corporate Travel Insurance Industry?

Market Overview

Corporate Travel Insurance is a market-leading business travel insurance program for today's busy business travellers. An increasing number of employees, from top firm executives to basic sales personnel, work in an ever-widening range of businesses, both large and small, and corporate travel are a regular part of their jobs. There are several travel risks for business travellers and difficulties for companies if their workers become ill or are hurt while working abroad.

In some cases, an immediate departure from a nation with insufficient medical facilities or a politically risky area is necessary. Therefore, corporate travel insurance covers these risks in addition to the frequent ones like airline delays, misplaced luggage, and missing travel papers. Emergency help is only a phone call away with access to a high-quality assistance service available around the clock.

Get a Free Sample PDF of this Research Report for more Insights with aTable of Content, Research Methodology, and Graphs - https://www.fnfresearch.com/sample/corporate-travel-insurance-market



(A free sample of this report is available upon request; please contact us for more information.)

Our Free Sample Report Consists of the Following:

Introduction, Overview, and in-depth industry analysis are all included in the 2022 updated report.

The COVID-19 Pandemic Outbreak Impact Analysis is included in the package

About 217+ Pages Research Report (Including Recent Research)

Provide detailed chapter-by-chapter guidance on Request

Updated Regional Analysis with Graphical Representation of Size, Share, and Trends for the Year 2022

Includes Tables and figures have been updated

The most recent version of the report includes the Top Market Players, their Business Strategies, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis

Facts and Factors research methodology

(Please note that the sample of this report has been modified to include the COVID-19 impact study prior to delivery.)

Report Scope

Report Attribute Details Market Size in 2021 USD 3,729.40 Million Projected Market Size in 2028 USD 10,274.23 Million CAGR Growth Rate 18.40% CAGR Base Year 2021 Forecast Years 2022-2028 Key Market Players ALLIANZ, AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL GROUP INC., AssicurazioniGenerali S.P.A., A.X.A., Insure and Go Insurance Services Limited, Seven Corners Inc., Trip Mate Inc., Travel Insured International, Travel Safe Insurance, USI INSURANCE SERVICES LLC, and Others Key Segment By Coverage Type, Distribution Channel, End-User, and Region Major Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa Purchase Options Request customized purchase options to meet your research needs. Explore purchase options

Market Growth Factors

The demand for travel insurance from businesses has also increased because it offers immediate coverage for personal belongings and business equipment as well as delivers coverage against damage caused by the insured to a third party, which fuels the expansion of the business travel insurance market globally. Additionally, tailored coverages are included in corporate insurance policies and are offered at an additional premium cost based on customer needs and requests, which promotes the expansion of the global market for business travel insurance.

The market for business travel insurance is growing, but business owners' ignorance of travel insurance policies is impeding its expansion. The adoption of digital tools like artificial intelligence (A.I.), application program interface (API), a global positioning system (G.P.S.), and data analytics for the delivery of affordable insurance policies, on the other hand, is expected to create lucrative opportunities for the growth of the global business travel insurance market.

Browse the full Corporate Travel Insurance Market - Global and Regional Industry Insights, Overview, Comprehensive Analysis, Trends, Statistical Research, Market Intelligence, Historical Data and Forecast 2022  2028 Report at https://www.fnfresearch.com/corporate-travel-insurance-market



Corporate Travel Insurance Market: COVID-19 Impact Analysis

It is envisaged that the development of COVID-19 will act as a barrier to the growth of the corporate travel insurance business. The pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus has resulted in a significant decrease in business travel insurance. This is a direct consequence of the travel restrictions and nationwide lockdowns that have been enacted in a number of different countries.

In addition, as a result of countries' restricting entry to non-citizens, international travel has come to a complete halt, and preferences for domestic travel have considerably expanded in the market. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, there have also been more flights that have been canceled, which has led to more insurance claims. This has slowed the growth of the market.

Corporate Travel Insurance Market: Segmentation Analysis

Coverage type, distribution channels, and end users are the segments used to analyze the global business travel insurance market. The market is divided into annual multi-trip travel insurance and single-trip travel insurance based on the kind of coverage. In 2021, the single-trip travel insurance category dominated the global market. It is divided into insurance intermediaries, insurance companies, banks, insurance brokers, and insurance aggregators based on the distribution channels.

In 2021, insurance brokers had a significant share. The market is segmented on the end user into senior citizens, students, business travelers, family travelers, and others. In 2021, the travel insurance market's largest revenue share was obtained by the Family Travelers sector.

Directly Purchase a copy of the report with TOC @ https://www.fnfresearch.com/buynow/su/corporate-travel-insurance-market



Competitive Landscape

Some of the main competitors dominating the global Corporate Travel Insurance market include 

ALLIANZ

AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL GROUP INC.

AssicurazioniGenerali S.P.A.

A.X.A.

Insure and Go Insurance Services Limited

Seven Corners Inc.

Trip Mate Inc.

Travel Insured International

Travel Safe Insurance

USI INSURANCE SERVICES LLC

Key Insights from Primary Research:

As per the analysis shared by our research analyst, the Corporate Travel Insurance market is estimated to grow annually at a CAGR of around 18.40%over the forecast period (2022-2028).

In Terms Of Revenue, The Corporate Travel Insurance market size was valued at around US$ 3,729.40 million in 2021and is projected to reach US$ 10,274.23 million by 2028. Due to a variety of driving factors, the market is predicted to rise at a significant rate.

By Coverage type, the single-trip travel insurance category dominated the global market in 2021.

By the year 2021, insurance brokers were expected to have a sizable part of the market on the basis of distribution channel segment.

In terms of end user, Family Travellers dominated the travel insurance industry in 2021.

Europe has become the biggest travel insurance market in the world, by regional analysis.

Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.fnfresearch.com/inquiry/corporate-travel-insurance-market



Key questions answered in this report:

What is the market size and growth rate forecast for Corporate Travel Insurance industry?

What are the main driving factors propelling the Corporate Travel Insurance Market forward?

What are the leading companies in the Corporate Travel Insurance Industry?

What segments does the Corporate Travel Insurance Market cover?

How can I receive a free copy of the Corporate Travel Insurance Market sample report and company profiles?

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20222028

Market Dynamics  Leading Trends, Growth Drivers, Restraints, and Investment Opportunities

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by Coverage Type, Distribution Channel, End-User, and Region

Competitive Landscape  Top Key Vendors and Other Prominent Vendors

Regional Dominance:

With the largest revenue share, Europe has emerged as the market's dominant region for travel insurance. The sector is expanding as a result of growing tourism patterns in the European region as well as regional requirements for health, safety, and hygiene. Along with that, the area travel insurance market is expanding due to the presence of numerous historical monuments, significant businesses, and institutions. This is explained by the fact that during the COVID-19 outbreak, the majority of enterprises in the UK, Germany, and France bought business travel insurance, which accelerated the market's growth.

However, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to have considerable growth throughout the projected period due to the presence of numerous travel insurance providers throughout Asian nations, including Chubb, TATA AIG, and Bajaj Allianz.

Recent Developments

In November 2021, A.I.G. Canada and Goose Insurance Services, a cutting-edge provider of insurance technology, partnered. The goal of this agreement was to make A.I.G. products available via the Goose Insurance Super-App. Additionally; it takes less than a minute for Canadians to purchase products from A.I.G. Canada.

Nov. 2021 saw Zurich and travel insurance guru InsureandGo strike a contract with AllClear. Through this collaboration, Zurich would invest in travel-related products from AllClear and InsureandGo as well as its partner businesses.

Request for Customization on this Report as per your requirements - https://www.fnfresearch.com/customization/corporate-travel-insurance-market



(We tailor your report to meet your specific research requirements. Inquire with our sales team about customising your report.)

The global Corporate Travel Insurance market is segmented as follows:

By Coverage Type

Single-Trip Travel Insurance

Annual Multi-Trip Insurance

By Distribution Channel

Insurance Intermediaries

Banks

Insurance Companies

Insurance Aggregators

Insurance Brokers

Others

By End User

Senior Citizens

Education Travelers

Business Travelers

Family Travelers

Others

By Region

North America U.S. Canada Rest of North America

Europe France UK Spain Germany Italy Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific China Japan India South Korea Rest of Asia Pacific

The Middle East & Africa Saudi Arabia South Africa Rest of the Middle East & Africa

Latin America Brazil Argentina Rest of Latin America



Ask For Free Sample Report of the Global Corporate Travel Insurance Market @ https://www.fnfresearch.com/sample/corporate-travel-insurance-market



Browse Other Related Research Reports from Facts & Factors:

Metaverse in Travel and Tourism Market Size: https://www.fnfresearch.com/metaverse-in-travel-and-tourism-market



Online Travel Booking Market Size: https://www.fnfresearch.com/online-travel-booking-market



Wellness Tourism Market By Service and Size: https://www.fnfresearch.com/wellness-tourism-market-report



Travel Insurance Market Size: https://www.fnfresearch.com/travel-insurance-market-by-trip-type-single-trip-216



e-Passport Market Size: https://www.fnfresearch.com/e-passport-market-by-type-long-term-and



Wellness Tourism Market Size and Services: https://www.fnfresearch.com/wellness-tourism-market-report



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LOS ANGELES, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Social Brew, a fast-growing e-commerce coffee marketplace that supports the fight against human trafficking, is proud to announce the launch of its latest website, providing an enhanced and immersive customer experience.

Simone Ispahani - Founder and CEO of Social Brew - shared her view: "We are a unique coffee collective that is about awakening minds and empowering individuals to make a difference in their spheres of influence." On finding the right digital agency for the job, Simone commented, "It's challenging to translate a deeply rooted vision into a digital experience, but with SocioSquares, we found a digital agency that understood our mission. SocioSquares is integral to helping us achieve our mission."

SocioSquares Founder and CEO Gaurav (Rav) Mendiratta added, "From our experience of closely working with several entrepreneurs and startups, we understood from the start that Social Brew is a brand with a unique vision and purpose. It's truly a privilege to partner with a business that is driven by a higher cause and works to improve lives through every sale of their amazing coffee."

About Social Brew

A global e-commerce specialty coffee company based in Los Angeles, CA, Social Brew donates 50% of its profits to two anti-human trafficking organizations. Shaped by Simone's exposure to the issue of human trafficking while at college and her experience of working with survivors, Social Brew's future goal is to empower trafficking survivors in rebuilding their lives through the creation of sustainable job opportunities.

Social Brew's 'beyond the cup' philosophy brings coffee lovers some of the world's most desired specialty coffees, including 100% Kona Coffee, 100% Waialua Coffee, Hawaiian Blend Coffee, and Decaf Brazil Coffee.

About SocioSquares

SocioSquares is a digital marketing company with 10+ years of experience in enabling businesses and startups to achieve their growth goals with customized digital marketing strategies and advanced product development. With offices in the San Francisco Bay Area, Philadelphia, Houston, and India, SocioSquares offers a comprehensive range of services that includes Digital Marketing, and Web & Mobile Development. The company also focuses on NFT Development, Private Blockchain, and Smart Contracts Development. In short, SocioSquares is the perfect digital growth partner for small and medium-sized businesses. For more information, visit: www.sociosquares.com

Media Contact - Kumar Marthy

email: kumarm@sociosquares.com

Ph: 215-253-7022

Related Images











Image 1: Social Brew - 100% Kona Single Origin





Social Brew - Highest quality Hawaiian Coffee









This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com.

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Conference Call

COLUMBUS, OH, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Intellinetics, Inc. (OTCQB: INLX) will hold a conference call to discuss its financial results for the second quarter of 2022 on Monday, August 15, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.



The conference call can be accessed by dialing +1 929 205 6099 and providing passcode 830 2525 3406#. If you are unable to participate during the live call, a replay of the conference call will be available approximately two hours after the completion of the call through August 31, 2022. To listen to the replay, the call will be archived on the company's website at https://www.intellinetics.com/company-news/.

Disclosure Information

Intellinetics uses and intends to continue to use its Investor Relations website as a means of disclosing material nonpublic information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor the companys Investor Relations website, in addition to following the companys press releases, SEC filings, and any public conference calls, presentations, and/or webcasts.

About Intellinetics, Inc.

Intellinetics, Inc. (OTCQB: INLX) empowers organizations to manage, store and protect their important documents and data. The company offers its IntelliCloudTM content management platform, in addition to business process outsourcing (BPO), document and micrographics scanning services, and records storage. Intellinetics guides companies through the digital transformation process to reduce risk, strengthen compliance and enable anytime, anywhere access to mission critical forms and documents. From highly regulated industries like Healthcare/Human Service Providers, K-12, Public Safety, and State and Local Governments, to businesses looking to move away from paper-based processes, Intellinetics is the all-in-one, compliant, document management solution. For additional information, please visit www.intellinetics.com.

CONTACT:

Joe Spain, CFO

Intellinetics, Inc.

614.921.8170

investors@intellinetics.com
Google has filed two lawsuits against speaker-maker Sonos over alleged patent violation, as per CNET.

On Monday, two lawsuits were filed by Google in US District Court in California, alleging that Sonos' newest voice-assistant technology violates seven patents in connection to Google Assistant.

Sonos Allegedly Violates Seven Patents Related to Google Assistant Technology

According to the filing, the voice control feature of Sonos' for its smart speakers that debuted in May, infringes seven patents in connection with Google Assistant technology, as per Reuters.

The new lawsuit is an addition to the ongoing patent battle between Google and Sonos regarding smart-speaker technology. Lawsuits have been filed in California, Canada, France, Germany and the Netherlands.

According to Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda, Sonos has "started an aggressive and misleading campaign against our products, at the expense of our shared customers."

He said that in response Google filed the lawsuits to "defend our technology and challenge Sonos' clear, continued infringement of our patents."

Meanwhile, in a statement, Sonos' chief legal officer Eddie Lazarus said that the new lawsuits file by Google were an "intimidation tactic designed to retaliate against Sonos for speaking out against Google's monopolistic practices."

Moreover, Lazarus stated that this is Google's move to avoid providing royalty to Sonos for about 200 patents it is currently infringing.

The voice assistant of Sonos was launched in June. The technology allows users to control their speakers through the use of voice commands beginning with the phrase "Hey Sonos."

According to Google, the company has made its technologies available to users worldwide. Google said that it even provided its Google Assistant software to Sonos for many years.

For years, Google engineers has worked with Sonos engineers regarding the "implementation of voice recognition and voice-activated device controls in Sonos' products," the lawsuit stated.

Read Also: Google Targets Sonos With The Chromecast Audio

Lawsuit Battle Between Google and Sonos Rooted in 2020

An unspecified amount of monetary damages is being requested by Google. The company is also asking for an injunction that will block Sonos' alleged infringement.

The lawsuit battle between Google and Sonos started in early 2020 when Sonos filed a case against Google for alleged patent infringement, as per Engadget. This came after the two companies worked together for several years.

According to Sonos, Google obtained knowledge of the company's technology when they collaborated. Furthermore, Sonos claimed that Google used that information to make its own smart speaker line.

In September 2020, Sonos filed another lawsuit. This time, the company claimed that Google violated five more patents.

In a counter case, Google alleged that Sonos was utilizing Google's search, software, networking, audio processing and other technology "without paying a license fee." The company also claimed that Sonos made "false claims" about their collaboration.

In a 2021 ruling of the US International Trade Commission, Google lost the case. To avoid import ban, Google was forced to change the way its speakers were set.

Change in the speakers were related to the manner speaker groups are controlled. One of the changes is users can no longer adjust the volume of a group of speakers. The speakers must be modified individually instead.

Related Article: Sonos Users Shift Music Streaming Platform as Google Discontinues Play Music; Shifts to YouTube Music
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New demand may boost future exports

By LIU ZHIHUA (China Daily) 09:14, August 09, 2022

A container ship sails into the Qingdao Port on June 2, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]

Experts say better ties with emerging markets leading to win-win growth

China's exports are expected to become more resilient as demand from emerging markets such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and India expands rapidly, experts said on Monday after reviewing official data that Customs released on Sunday.

Data showed exports to emerging markets in the first seven months of the year grew strongly though the global economy is cooling.

"The fast growth in exports to emerging markets reflects the improving economic and trade ties between China and those economies, and the momentum is expected to continue," said Bai Ming, deputy director of the international market research department at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation in Beijing.

"Thanks to that, China's exports are expected to remain resilient, despite the economic recession facing the developed economies and the protectionist approach to trade adopted by the United States and some European countries."

According to the General Administration of Customs, China's exports to ASEAN, its largest trading partner, surged 19 percent from a year ago to 2.05 trillion yuan ($300 billion) during the first seven months of the year.

The value of exports to economies participating in the Belt and Road Initiative also gained nearly 20 percent year-on-year, to hit 4.27 trillion yuan.

Analysts said the fast growth pace was mostly attributable to removal of supply chain snarls in China and ramped-up production in those economies, which improved demand for raw materials and intermediate goods from China.

On a broader note, the growth was also catalyzed by improvement in bilateral trade, and investment facilitation and liberalization between China and ASEAN economies, thanks to their free trade agreements and other trade arrangements, they said.

According to a new report from Hua Chuang Securities, China's robust exports were to a large extent driven by the growing demand in developed economies since 2021. As the developed economies have started to stall, their contribution to China's export growth slumped.

On the other hand, China's exports to emerging markets such as ASEAN and India have increased in recent months, relative to the pre-COVID-19 levels, the report stated.

From 2016 to 2019, outbound shipments to India, Indonesia and Brazil accounted for 2.5 percent, 1.3 percent, and 1.7 percent, respectively, of China's overall exports. In recent months, the corresponding figures rose to 2.7 percent, 1.5 percent and 2 percent, the report stated.

Bai with the CAITEC said work and business resumption in emerging markets since the COVID outbreaks, and more importantly, the huge economic potential in those developing economies, will ensure that they will have increasing demand for Chinese products for a long period.

"Chinese products are highly competitive in global markets thanks to their high quality and relatively low prices, and can well meet demand from economies seeking sustained and fast growth," he said, adding improved connectivity also contributes to the nation's fast growth of exports to emerging markets.

According to Hua Chuang Securities report, China's exports of chemicals, textile raw materials, textile products and base metal products to ASEAN have increased significantly this year.

Exports of chemicals, plastic and rubber products, base metal products, and mechanical and electrical products to India, as well as exports of chemicals, mechanical and electrical products, and textile raw materials to Brazil, have also ballooned.

Zhao Wei, chief economist at Sinolink Securities, said there is strong complementarity in the export structures of China and ASEAN. Against the background of high labor and energy costs, the division of labor and cooperation between China and ASEAN across the regional industrial chain may help them to receive more orders in global trade, which can add resilience to their exports.

Gao Lingyun, director of the international investment division at the Institute of World Economics and Politics, which is part of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, however, said Chinese enterprises need to reduce production costs and rise in the global value chain, to sustain and improve the competitiveness of Chinese goods in global markets.

The Chinese authorities concerned also need to ramp up efforts to improve the local business climate so that enterprises can cut indirect costs, he said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
The documentary, "Free Chol Soo Lee," excavates the harrowing story of a young Korean immigrant who was racially profiled and wrongfully convicted of murder in 1970s San Francisco. The case mobilized the Asian American community to launch an unprecedented grassroots movement to exonerate him, leading to his release in 1983. Courtesy of Mubi





By Park Han-sol







Born in 1952 in Seoul during the turmoil of the 1950-53 Korean War, Chol Soo Lee had no idea what would lay ahead of him when he was yanked away from his homeland at the mere age of 12 to be reunited with his mother in San Francisco.







Growing up in the city's Chinatown as "the only Korean" kid with no English communication skills, Lee soon fell into the isolated life of a youth at risk, moving from foster homes to a juvenile hall and even a psychiatric facility at one point.







But it was in 1973 when the life of the self-described "young street punk" turned upside-down, following the news of the killing of Yip Yee Tak, an alleged local gang member in Chinatown.







The documentary, "Free Chol Soo Lee," charts the complex story of the then-20-year-old Korean immigrant who was racially profiled and wrongfully convicted of murder after a questionable police investigation and eyewitness testimonies given by white tourists.







Using ample archival footage, firsthand accounts and narration drawn from Lee's own writings, directors Julie Ha and Eugene Yi follow Lee as he is swiftly sentenced to life behind bars  and later put on death row  and struggles to survive in what was known as one of the most violent prisons in California.







It then moves on to another watershed moment in Lee's life in 1977: his fateful encounter with Kyung Won Lee, "the only Korean reporter in the mainstream (American) media" at the time.







With keen eyes, journalist Lee launches what turns out to be a five-year-long investigative report on the case, exposing racial bias and injustice in the U.S. criminal justice system, including the fact that the police and the judge had misidentified the young inmate as "Chinese."







A scene from the documentary, "Free Chol Soo Lee" / Courtesy of Mubi





But the film doesn't limit itself to discussing Lee's story in the judicial context alone. Instead, it further delves into how the case ushered in an extraordinary grassroots social justice campaign that united the intergenerational Asian American community to advocate for his fair retrial  a largely forgotten historical chapter in present-day U.S. society.







From conservative, elderly immigrants to third-generation student activists, the community joined forces to lead a landmark pan Asian American movement from the late 1970s to the early 1980s until a retrial was granted in 1982.







On March 28, 1983, after spending nearly a decade behind bars, Lee was freed.







During her recent interview with NPR, the documentary's co-director, Ha, explained that it was Lee's funeral in 2014 and her conversation with activists, who fought together to win his freedom decades earlier, which eventually drove her to capture the case in film.







"It was our generational responsibility to tell it and that we could not allow it to stay lost in history. It needed to be known and told anew," she was quoted as saying.







Amid the rise of hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) following the COVID-19 outbreak, Ha expressed hope for viewers to take inspiration from the documentary's portrayal of the collective resistance movement led by the Asian American community.







"That's such a powerful statement and act, and I think it's definitely something we need to hear today," she said.







"Free Chol Soo Lee," which has been acquired by global streaming platform, film distributor and production company Mubi, will premiere in New York City on Aug. 12, followed by a special one-night-only screening in more than 180 theaters across the country on Aug. 17. After the event, it is scheduled to roll out gradually in other select local theaters in the U.S.


Bank of Korea Governor Rhee Chang-yong, fifth from left, poses with Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) Governor Lee Bok-hyun, fourth from left, and other participants of the Executives' Meeting of East Asia-Pacific Central Banks held at the Korean central bank's headquarters in downtown Seoul, Tuesday. Participating at the meeting  either online or in-person  were the central bank governors and top financial regulators of 10 Asia-Pacific countries, discussing issues such as global financial risks following monetary tightening and policy implications. Courtesy of the Bank of Korea
Tourists line up to catch a taxi at Jeju International Airport, July 22. Newsis









By Lee Yeon-woo







The scenic southern resort island of Jeju used to be called "Samdado" or an island that has plenty of three things _ wind, stone and women.







But nowadays they are not the only things the island is endowed with.







With its breathtaking scenery, picturesque beaches and volcanic landscape, the island is crowded with tourists almost all year round. Pale sands, blue seas, swaying palm trees, steep seaside cliffs, and many more beautiful attractions lure tourists to the island, making it a hub of the tourism industry. Before the coronavirus pandemic, an average of 1.4 million travelers, both Koreans and foreign tourists, visited the island annually.







After years of COVID-19-driven lockdowns, foreign tourists came back. But the islanders are not happy about the expected tourism boom.







People who are involved in the tourism industry on the island have begun to voice worries after the Ministry of Justice announced the introduction of the electronic travel authorization, also known as K-ETA, on the island.







If implemented as planned, the visa-waiver program, which has been in place since 2002 and allowed foreign tourists to travel the island for up to 30 days without a visa, will be automatically lifted.







Jeju locals are worried that the introduction of the ETA will negatively impact inbound tourism to the island.







"In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic started, nearly 1.72 million travelers visited this island and 810,000 of them arrived here on the visa-waiver program, accounting for 47.1 percent," Kim Jong-hoon, an executive of the Jeju Tourism Association, told The Korea Times. "This being said nearly half of foreigners arrived on Jeju visa free. Therefore, the planned introduction of the ETA will inevitably discourage foreigners from considering Jeju as a possible tourism destination."







While announcing the plan to introduce the K-ETA to curb illegal immigrants, the justice ministry didn't specify from when it will be implemented on the island. The ministry decided to tighten border control as some foreigners have taken advantage of the island's visa-free program to enter the mainland illegally. Jeju's visa-free entry also enticed potential asylum-seekers as the nation saw the arrivals of some 600 Yemenis as asylum-seekers within the first five months of 2018, which triggered nationwide debate over Islamophobia as some people spread baseless rumors about the Yemenis' motives.







The locals, particularly those who are working in the tourism sector, are feeling pressured by the measure as they are worried about the possible fallout on inbound tourism from abroad which has just begun to return to life after years of pandemic-driven suspension.







Relying heavily on tourism to support the local economy, Jeju government is on the same page as those who are involved in the tourism sector. On Jeju, tourism accounts for nearly 70 percent of the island's industries.







The local government has set out to take action. It requested the justice ministry to withhold the service in a meeting held on Friday. Jeju Immigration Service, JTA, Jeju Tourism Organization (JTO), and other relevant institutions also attended the meeting.







Office of Korea Electronic Travel Authorization located in Gangseo District, western Seoul. Newsis





The justice ministry stood firm on its stance that it would introduce the electronic travel authorization.







Officials from the ministry insisted that a lot of foreigners  who would have been banned from entering the island if the ETA service was in use  are abusing the system to stay and make money in Korea without legal procedure.







"The service will not be a barrier to luring more travelers. It rather shortens immigration procedures so travelers won't feel any discomfort," an official from the Ministry of Justice was quoted as saying at the meeting.







The ministry believes adopting the ETA will rather enhance the quality of tourism and stressed its benefits.







According to the ministry, travelers (who are not under suspicion) receive automated permission within 30 minutes after applying for a K-ETA, are exempt from filing a landing card on entry, and are allocated to exclusive immigration checkpoints.







The ministry didn't clarify when the new service will be implemented on the island, but promised it would have more conversations with the citizens before the adoption.







Jeju citizens say there's nothing much they can do if the ministry goes ahead with the measure as it solely supervises the immigration policy. But they are united in expressing their concerns and informing the ministry about Jeju's predicament.







JTA is scheduled to hold a series of meetings with small business owners in the hotel industry, car rental services, and other sectors to collect their opinions. Jeju city has plans to visit the justice ministry to ask to reconsider the measure.







"We all know the ministry is in charge of the matter. But it is evident that the policy will affect Jeju citizens' lives as the island is heavily reliant on tourism for their livelihood. We have to deliver their interests and worries as a civil servant. We will try our best," an official from Jeju city told The Korea Times.






North Korea issued a heavy rain alert across its southern regions, state media reported Tuesday, as downpours pounded Pyongyang and other areas earlier this week.







The advisory was issued for regions in the southwestern provinces of North and South Hwanghae, some southern parts of the eastern Gangwon Province and the border city of Kaesong, according to the Korean Central Broadcasting Station.







It said 50 to 80 millimeters of rain is forecast in those regions.







On Monday, state media footage showed the Taedong River that runs through Pyongyang flooding riverside pathways in the capital.







The Rodong Sinmun, the North's main newspaper, described the latest downpours as "disastrous" weather and called for thorough preventative measures against damages.







It said authorities are adjusting the floodgates of the West Sea Barrage near the western port city of Nampho to prevent the Taedong River from flooding and damaging farmland.







Coal mines in the country are also undergoing inspections to prevent flooding or collapse, it added. (Yonhap)


(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Clark D. Cunningham, Georgia State University

(THE CONVERSATION) The FBIs raid of former President Donald Trumps estate on Aug. 8, 2022, caught Trump by surprise  and prompted immediate speculation about exactly why and how the law enforcement agency secured a search warrant.

My beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents.  They even broke into my safe! Trump said in a statement released through his political action committee, Save America.

Trump brought 15 boxes of classified materials with him to Mar-a-Lago when he left the White House, and delayed returning the materials to National Archives officials for months.

The FBI and the Department of Justice have not commented on the raid, but the Justice Department is known to be investigating how Trump possibly mishandled government secrets. Trump is also facing other potential charges from the state of Georgia stemming from his alleged interference with the 2020 elections.

Georgia State University legal scholar Clark D. Cunningham, an expert on search warrants and the criminal investigations of interference in the 2020 election, explains what could have led to the raid and what the raid tells us about the state of the federal investigation into Trumps activities.

1. There are legal hurdles to getting a search warrant

The U.S. Constitution requires that all search warrants particularly describe the place to be searched and the  things to be seized.

This requirement can be traced in part to a famous British case from the 1760s when agents of King George III searched the house of John Wilkes, an opposition member of Parliament, for incriminating papers. The warrant they used was condemned by the courts as a general warrant because it did not specifically name Wilkes, his house or the seized papers.

Courts and commentators also criticized the Wilkes warrant because it was based on mere suspicion. The U.S. founders looked to the Wilkes warrant as an example of what the Constitution should prevent and added the Fourth Amendment  requiring that search warrants only be issued upon probable cause, supported by Oath.

Criminal procedure laws help enforce these constitutional requirements by requiring search warrants to particularly describe evidence of a crime  or other items illegally possessed.

Only judges can issue search warrants, and they must find, based on sworn testimony, that there is probable cause that such evidence or items will be found in the location described in the warrant.

This means that a judge must have found that there was probable cause that either a crime had been committed, or that Trump was illegally possessing items taken from the White House. The FBIs request for a search warrant might also have indicated concern that these documents would either be destroyed or moved off of the premises.

2. There are also potential policy hurdles

In February 2020, then-Attorney General William Barr announced new restrictions that require the FBI and other law enforcement agencies to get permission from the Attorney General before investigating presidential candidates or their staff.

Barrs successor, Attorney General Merrick Garland, has kept this policy in place  keeping in line with general Justice Department guidelines that try to prevent politically charged investigations.

This means that this search would not have taken place without Garlands approval. Given the generally strong tradition of political independence at the Justice Department, it is not surprising that President Joe Biden and his aides were not informed in advance of the raid and found out on Twitter.

3. The FBI might have found more than it was looking for

The Supreme Court ruled in a 1990 case that police executing a warrant that authorized searching for the proceeds of a robbery could also lawfully seize weapons that were in plain view.

Assuming that the FBIs warrant authorized only searching for classified documents taken from the White House, if the FBI found in plain view other evidence of crimes related to the 2020 election or Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, they likely could have taken that, as well.

4. There may be a connection with Trumps possible election interference

A federal grand jury, requested by the Justice Department, has been investigating the presence of potentially classified documents at Mar-a-Lago since at least early May 2022. It seems likely that something has happened recently to cause this urgent search. One possibility is that the search warrant was issued based on information gathered in one or more of the criminal investigations involving 2020 election interference.

In particular, the Department of Justice on July 12, 2022, obtained a warrant to search the cellphone of John Eastman, Trumps former lawyer. As hearings by the Jan. 6 House committee have revealed, Eastman was a primary architect of the plan to block Congress from certifying Bidens victory.

There seems little doubt that the Justice Department had compelling, perhaps overwhelming, legal justifications for conducting this unprecedented search of a former presidents home. However, the secrecy required for Justice Department investigations and grand jury proceedings means that the country will have to be patient  the justifications for the search may become public only if and when criminal charges are filed.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/why-searching-an-ex-presidents-estate-is-not-easily-done-4-important-things-to-know-about-the-fbis-search-of-mar-a-lago-188438.
The Indian government is seeking to restrict Chinese handset makers from selling sub-INR12,000 ($150/147) smartphones in the country in a bid to push the Chinese brands out of the lower segment, reports Bloomberg.

This move would affect Xiaomi, Realme, and Transsion the most since they sell a lot of smartphones in the sub-$150 segment in India. According to Counterpoint, smartphones in this price category contributed to a third of India's sales volume for the quarter through June 2022, with Chinese brands accounting for up to 80% of those shipments.

The idea behind banning Chinese brands from selling smartphones in the sub-$150 segment in India is to allow local players such as Lava and Micromax to boost their sales in this category and regain the market share.

The sales of both companies comprised just less than 50% of India's smartphone sales before they were undercut by Chinese brands, which offered better specs at lower prices and eventually went on to dominate the second-largest smartphone market in the world. According to Counterpoint, Xiaomi, Samsung, vivo, Realme, and Oppo were the top five smartphone brands in India through Q2 2022, with Samsung being the only non-Chinese company on the list.



Source: Counterpoint Research

While we are yet to hear anything about this from the Indian government, this development comes at a time when Chinese smartphone brands Xiaomi, vivo, and Oppo are on the Indian government's radar for illegal business activities in the country, including money laundering and tax evasion.

The Indian government has also banned hundreds of Chinese apps and games in India - including PUBG - after a clash between the Indian and Chinese troops along the Himalayan border over two years ago increased tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries.

Source
Public schools will be back in session today, and along with the educators, school aides, principals and counselors, a team of nurses will help keep the 30,000 students safe and healthy.

The nurses completed their two-day staff development training Tuesday at the Guam Department of Education headquarters in Tiyan, where they learned about the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, and how to distinguish COVID-19 symptoms from other types of sickness.

We dont want you to come to school if youre sick. Communicate with the school. The same with our employees, communicate with your supervisor, said Chief Nurse Julietta Quinene.

Quinene said if students are sick, they will be sent to the nurses office, where they will be excused for the day. They will be sent home and will be required to be tested.

How long they will be out of school depends on whether or not they are vaccinated.

If you are positive and vaccinated, you are out for five days, at a minimum, of course, hoping your symptoms improve and fever-free. But if you are unvaccinated youre going to be out for 10 days, so that is already excused, said Quinene.

If youre outside of those windows, of course, we will have to work with parents and either get a medical certification or other reasons why the student was out.

Quinene added that if a student or employee needs additional recovery time, they must communicate with their school in order to work out a schedule and make up instructional time.

We are still going to implement our mitigation strategies, wash hands, temperature checks, and if our employees see COVID-19-related symptoms, they will refer to our school nurse offices.

And when students go to the nurses offices, they have to wear masks.

Although masks are optional in schools, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero signed an executive order Monday mandating that people wear masks and social distance in health care offices and facilities.

If students come to the nurses office sick or they need to get their medication, we would definitely make sure to get a mask at once, Quinene said.

Quinene added that school nurses will continue to advise students to be vaccinated if they havent been already.

This is where we use our strength as school nurses to, again, make resources available to the parents so theyre aware of the importance of vaccination, but ultimately, its the parents decision if they want their kids to get vaccinated against COVID-19, she said.
Matson has appointed Stephen Gatewood as the new sales and customer service manager for Guam and Micronesia, the company announced on Tuesday.

Gatewood, who previously served in an operations role for the company, oversees all sales and customer service activity for Guam and Micronesia, including the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Federated States of Micronesia and the Marshall Islands.

Stephens extensive experience in sales and customer service is well suited to Matsons customer-focused approach to business, said Patrick Bulaon, vice president and general manager for Guam and Micronesia, in the news release.

Gatewood, who is originally from Yona, has worked in the tourism and transportation industries throughout the last nine years.

Before joining Matson, he spent six years at Alupang Beach Club as the sales and marketing manager.

He oversaw sales and marketing activities in Guam, Korea, Taiwan, China, and the Philippines from 2013 to 2019.

Gatewood also served on the board of directors for the Guam Visitors Bureau from 2019-2022, and represented his companies as a member of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce Guam.

He is the co-founder of the Millennial Brotherhood Scholarship, which provides financial aid to incoming high school students at his alma mater, Father Duenas Memorial School, where he graduated in 2009.

He also serves as Matsons scholarship ambassador to the University of Guam, providing the school and recipients of the Matson Leadership Diversity Scholarship with an industry contact for mentorship and program support.

Gatewood is a strong proponent of environmental responsibility. He serves on the advisory board of the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub at the CHamoru Village.

He also brings a passion for social responsibility that will be instrumental in continuing the important work we do in the community, especially with scholarship development and environmental stewardship, said Bulaon.

Gatewood has a bachelors degree in international relations with a minor in theological and religious studies from the University of San Diego.
We live in paradise. When it comes to weather, Guam is about as close to paradise as you can get.

Our sky is typically sunny and bright most any day of the year, and in the northern hemisphere winter, it offers a reprieve from a cold winter for our northern latitude neighbors.

However, our paradise is sometimes punctuated by those tropical cyclones that give our area the name Typhoon Alley.

Ive recently written about tropical cyclones, but I want to focus on a different weather hazard that can and does affect us on Guam and in the region: lightning.

National news outlets recently covered a tragic event that took place just outside the White House in Washington, D.C.s, Lafayette Park.

A strong thunderstorm pushing through the D.C. metro area last week generated a lightning bolt that struck several tourists in the park, killing three and leaving a fourth seriously injured.

Just a year ago, I was there in Lafayette Park, working my way from the Lincoln Memorial, to the White House, and then to dinner at the Old Ebbitt Grill on the far side of the White House and Treasury from the Lincoln Memorial.

If you are familiar with the Washington Mall, that is a huge distance to cover on foot.

While at the Lincoln Memorial, I informed my friends of incoming heavy weather with a severe thunderstorm watch in effect.

As the inbound storm intensified, I told them to expect an upgrade to a severe thunderstorm warning, meaning that severe weather with frequent lightning, strong winds and heavy rainfall would be imminent.

We needed about 25 minutes to walk to our dinner spot and the thunder was already audible, with streaks of lightning in the distance. We were already at risk.

We moved quickly to the Old Ebbitt Grill, but weather conditions took a turn for the worse as we were crossing near the White House.

Secret Service personnel had already taken shelter in security facilities around the compound, but tourists were still out and about, while I was in a full sprint.

Small debris from trees was falling in the streets, with vivid lightning flashing overhead in every direction.

The torrential rainfall hit as I entered the revolving door of the restaurant, cramming into a foyer full of people seeking shelter.

Were there warning signs of the dangerous weather? Absolutely.

News and weather reports two days in advance highlighted the potential for strong thunderstorms that afternoon. Wireless emergency alerts and weather apps also alerted folks of the severe weather unfolding as it was on approach.

The visual and audible signs were there as well: the darkening sky to the west, distant streaks of lightning, and thunder. Despite the multiple signs of danger, people are still caught out in severe weather.

Lightning is a weather hazard we deal with on Guam.

In the past decade, Guam has suffered several casualties.

While not many, even one is too many.

A good rule of thumb my NWS colleagues and I say often: When thunder roars, get indoors.

For those who may be hard of hearing: See a flash, dash inside.

Finally, wait 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before resuming activities, as lightning can, and does, strike well outside of the storm cloud.

For more information on lightning safety, tips, resources, educational materials, toolkits and myths/facts, visit the NWS Lightning page at weather.gov/safety/lightning.
Guams feral chickens could join pigeons, sparrows and the black drongo  the bird that often swoops down from utility lines to attack dogs and pedestrians  on the list of wild birds that can be captured and killed without penalty.

Lawmakers on Wednesday are scheduled to hear public testimony on Bill 322, by Sen. Jose Pedo Terlaje, which would change several sections of Guams hunting and fishing laws.

The proposed changes are related mostly to fishing, including new limits on the harvest of sea cucumbers, and criminal penalties for fishing with poison or explosives.

The bill also calls for minor hunting and fishing violations  those that are not considered misdemeanor or felony crimes  to be decided in traffic court in the Superior Court of Guam.

It would give conservation officers greater authority to board and search boats, looking for illegal fishing equipment.

It also gives the green light, legally, to deal with feral chickens.

As it stands, it is unlawful to take feral chickens in Guam because the law protects all wild birds and their eggs, except for black drongos, domestic pigeons, the black-headed mannikin and the European tree sparrow.

Multiple mayors have complained about an increase in nuisance feral chickens, Terlajes office said Tuesday. This would make it clear that they can be caught and dealt with and are not a protected species.

The bill would allow residents to continue to harvest a large number of marine invertebrates, up to 100 animals per person per day, but places a new limit on the number of sea cucumbers that can be taken, only five per person per day.

According to Terlajes office, the proposed limit on sea cucumbers, known locally as balate, is in response to dwindling sea cucumber populations in the islands near-shore waters, as documented by scientists at the University of Guam.

The universitys marine lab has recommended that all harvesting of balate stop until a management plan can be developed by the Guam Department of Agriculture, using new surveys of the balate population.

It is important to act rapidly to avert further loss of balate to keep Guams reefs intact, healthy and diverse, marine biology professor Alexander Kerr stated in an email to lawmakers.

The virtual public hearing is scheduled for 5 p.m. Wednesday, using the Zoom conference platform. Legislative public hearings are shown live on the Legislatures Youtube channel.
Yona resident Harvey Egna writes of the need to better prevent sex-related crimes, especially against young girls, in his letter to the editor.
National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo, left, speaks with Alina-Stefania Gorghiu, acting speaker of Romania's Senate, during their meeting in Bucharest, Aug. 8, in this photo released by Kim's office. Yonhap



National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo promoted South Korean arms and nuclear reactor exports to Romania in his meeting with the country's Senate leader, his office said Tuesday.



Kim held talks with Alina-Stefania Gorghiu, acting speaker of Romania's Senate, in Bucharest on Monday. Romania is the second leg of a two-nation trip that has also taken him to Poland.



"South Korea participating in Romania's arms modernization project is one way the two countries can cooperate as strategic partners," he said. "South Korean arms are excellent for their price and are compatible with those of NATO nations."



Romania, which has increased its defense budget to 2.5 percent of its GDP this year, is expected to raise it to 3 percent as it moves to modernize its arms system.



Kim proposed that South Korea and United States take part in a Romanian nuclear reactor business valued at 11 trillion won (US$8 billion).



Gorghiu responded that cooperating in the energy sector would be meaningful, adding that the countries should also work together to increase bilateral trade that currently stands at $1 billion.



Stressing that the two countries should expand high-level exchanges, the Romanian speaker requested a South Korea-Romania summit on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly this fall.



Both countries took part in a summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in June but a separate summit between the two countries did not take place.



Kim said he will deliver the request to President Yoon Suk-yeol.



On South Korea's bid to host the 2030 World Expo in the southeastern port city of Busan, Kim asked for Romania's support in the vote. Gorghiu said while the country remains undecided, she understands that Busan is a highly eligible candidate and promised to try her best considering that the two countries have helped each other in international competitions.



Kim thanked Romania for its help during South Korea's COVID-19 vaccine shortage, while Gorghiu voiced gratitude for the country's alliance with Ukraine during Russia's invasion. (Yonhap)






Haiti - FLASH : The OAS accuses and denounces 20 years of failures in Haiti of the international community





On Monday August 8, 2022, the General Secretariat of the OAS published on its official website a text which accuses and denounces without double talk the failures of the international community to finally put the international community, the international financial institutions, the multilateral system, the international financial community of donor countries faced with the choice of whether to industrialize Haiti to ensure work for its population and its economic development or whether it is "it is economically more profitable to continue absorbing Haitian migrants and let host countries accommodate them as and how they can and in such economic conditions as they can offer..."



Text published by the OAS General Secretariat :



"The institutional crisis that Haiti is experiencing right now is a direct result of the actions taken by the country's endogenous forces and by the international community.



The last 20 years of the international community's presence in Haiti has amounted to one of the worst and clearest failures implemented and executed within the framework of any international cooperation.



This is not to blame the individuals who, with a vocation for service and altruism, worked as cooperators and made their best effortsin some cases giving their livesfor Haiti. These persons deserve our greatest respect and remembrance.



Instead, this failure has to do with 20 years of erratic political strategy by an international community that was not capable of facilitating the construction of a single institution with the capacity to address the problems facing Haitians. After 20 years, not a single institution is stronger than it was before.



It was under this umbrella provided by the international community that the criminal gangs that today lay siege to the country fermented and germinated, even as the process of deinstitutionalization and political crisis that we see today grew and took shape.



Then, seeing its failure, the international community left Haiti, leaving chaos, destruction, and violence behind.



Right now, it is absurd to think that in this context of destruction, the Haitiansleft completely alone, polarized, and with very few resourceswould be able to rebuild or build the kind of security, deinstitutionalization, and development project that could enable its 12 million inhabitants to once again live in peaceful coexistence: Without resources, in a climate of violence, without technological capabilities, without financial accumulation, without any of that today, they want us to believe a completely endogenous Haitian solution could prosper. This is not so.



Without the basic conditions of democracy and security, the country today is suffering from the international communitys lack of ideas and real capacity, as well as from its own structural problems. This is the international community that never knew if it should leave the MINUSTAH in place or remove it, an international community that thought that contributing money was the same as having ideas, an international community that thought that paying its own consultants would solve Haitians problems. Obviously none of that was possible and none of this is possible.



Democracy



Building democracy requires citizens, strong institutions that must be constantly strengthened, and a political system with the capacity for dialogue, as well as honesty. Essentially, it requires the branches of State government to be in place and with the independent capacity to act. It requires the exercise of and full respect for liberties and fundamental guarantees (and for the State to ensure it) in the framework of the fullest possible exercise of economic and social rights, along with an electoral process that is trustworthy, fair, and transparent.



The exercise of power in keeping with the rule of law and administrative and institutional efficiency in providing solutions to Haitians problems are basic conditions for the functioning of the State that were never guaranteed by the international community in Haiti, that were never built by the international community in Haiti, and that Haiti fundamentally does not have. We should be clear that what we are facing is, more or less, a failed State and a weak and vulnerable society. The worst of all worlds: a weak State and a weak civil society.



This must be resolved by Haitians, there is no question about that. But the international community has a role to play.



Haitian society is very vulnerable and polarized. Its institutions are weak, its organizations are weak, and the path must be struck toward building them from zero, or even less than zero.



Without reducing polarization, without building capacities and bridges between Haitians, this will not be possible. Without dialogue, it is impossible.



Building Haitian democracy means encouraging capacity for dialogue, which includes building mutual trust among the various social and political actors in Haiti. Today, there is no system of checks and balances, neither politically nor socially. On the contrary, violence is prevalent, as is the abuse of force internally, actions with criminal intent, failed institutions, and a lack of civil society capacity.



Bringing peace to the country demands an absolutely critical step: there must be justice for the assassination of President Jovenel Moise. Without shedding light on the truth and without justice, no progress can ever be made towards reconciliation and harmony.



To begin to address these issues, the following processes must be built up:



An institutionalized and inclusive process of dialogue that includes all the political forces that can possibly be brought together for it. Within that process, the international community can contribute resources and build bridges between the stakeholders to strengthen all of them and place them on a path towards building organizational and institutional capacities.



A trustworthy, fair, transparent electoral process.



An institutional security process for the country.



These processes require the cooperation of the international community, obviously in everything with regard to the necessary resources, whether financial, human, or material.



We would be fooling ourselves to think that any of this could be built without the support of the international community, that none of these processes are needed to ensure the country can find its way out of the crisis facing it and that still impacts the countrys political and socioeconomic outlook. This will not be possible without the international community paying the bill. Not many members of the international community have the capacity to do so. Therefore, the responsibility for paying this bill falls to only a few who must not and cannot delay in taking up their responsibility, as time is running out for Haiti, with everything that is happening simply worsening the situation.



Obviously, we should expect internal Haitian forces to oppose these three processes, to oppose the institutionalized dialogue because that process can have the advantage of bringing political stability to the country, which would seriously impact a number of interests that today prevail in Haiti. Obviously, those forces will also oppose a trustworthy, fair, and transparent electoral process because the current ways and means of taking power have been completely different. There will also certainly be opposition to developing an institutional security process for the country with a strong commitment of the international community because doing so would dismantle the current situation in which violence perpetrated by armed gangs and organized crime predominates.



When we look at Haitis current situation, we understand why there were internal forceswith external complicitythat wanted MINUSTAH withdrawn. Doing so simply paved the way for a situation like the one we have today.



It is absolutely necessary to reverse the process of violence by implementing other institutional conditions and securing a different international commitment to bring the violence under control and disarm the armed gangs. It is crucial to reign in the territorial operations of organized criminal groups. But more of the human, financial, and material resources for this must come from the international community. Haiti does not have the prepared and trained human resources. It does not have the financial capacity, nor does it have the technical capacity to address the current security situation. Taking another path would therefore be a complete distortion of reality.



Similar capacities must be developed to implement a process of dialogue leading to a free and fair electoral process. We believe that the entire international community has a role to play, but it is crucial to concentrate all of the resources for these processes into a single institutionalized and centralized mechanism, not overlapping and ineffective volunteer efforts.



These processes are absolutely necessary, and it is crucial to launch them as soon as possible, with the dialogue process being the first one. It should be assumed that the other two processes will be based on the first, not on completely external extemporaneous decisions not aligned with what the countrys social and political culture are capable of receiving and doing. However, it is obvious that Haiti does not have the resources and that the resources have to be provided to Haiti through an institutionalized process by the international community with a strong monitoring component and capacity to combat corruption to prevent the resources from being diverted and misused.



Bringing peace to the country demands an absolutely critical step: there must be justice for the assassination of President Jovenel Moise. Without the truth being brough to light and without justice, no progress can ever be made towards reconciliation and harmony.



Based on the work done under these three processes, a new Constitution will have to be drafted that fixes the grave deficiencies and problems of the current Constitution.



An autonomous, strong, and responsible Central Bank



A strong, efficient, and independent justice system



An educational system capable of providing real solutions to the needs of Haitian youth and children



An incremental investment process toward providing work and jobs to Haitian men and women



Ignoring this need would mean completely ignoring reality. Taking the approach of waiting for Haiti to develop its own capacities without international assistance would take years. The country does not today, nor will it in the near future, have the conditions for accomplishing this alone.



Attempting to resolve the crisis and Haiti's serious problems without any of these elements would mean we are in the final phase of self-deception, which would not be so bad except for the fact that we are also deceiving the Haitian people into believing that we have a real solution for them.



As we continue to wait for the situation in Haiti to improve, the problems worsen. According to UNICEF, many schools have been closed for three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Attempts to reopen them have been frustrated by the criminal violence affecting communities throughout the country and the extortion to which school authorities are subjected.



The international community, international financial institutions, the multilateral system, and the international financial community of donor countries must make a decision: whether they want to industrialize Haiti sufficiently to ensure work for nine million Haitians, or whether it is economically more profitable to continue absorbing Haitian migrants and let host countries accommodate them as and how they can and in such economic conditions as they can offer. This is a critical decision because on it depends whether the Haitian situation continues in a state of permanent crisis with increasingly tragic dimensions, or whether we can move toward a process of transformation in which we ensure sufficient investments on sustainable terms and, therefore, the social stability of the country. It is necessary to ensure a strategy that includes the what comes after? aspect. That includes the importance of the educational model and job security conditions.



Furthermore, Haiti's future prosperity depends on the development of its youth. Chronic malnutrition in children is irreversible, reducing their cognitive capacity by 40%. To build a sustainable future in Haiti, its human capital must be highly trained and able to compete in local and international job markets. The current deficiencies in food security, caused by the low investment in agriculture and the difficulties of transporting food due to blockades imposed by criminal groups and poor infrastructure will only move the country further from its the goal of eliminating extreme poverty.



In order to stop the academic backsliding and the malnutrition suffered by Haitis children as quickly as possible, the internal war must be ended. We publicly reiterate our request for an end to armed violence in the country.



It is urgent to continue working to increase security and begin the democratization process."



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Tourism : Site visits of reception infrastructures





As part of the Integrated Region Project for Tourism Development in the South (RIAT-SUD) launched by the Ministry of Tourism in 2015 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-15031-haiti-tourism-30-tourist-projects-will-start-on-the-south-coast.html , financed by the IDB and executed jointly with the Technical Execution Unit of the Ministry of Finance, the Minister, L. K. Cassandra Francois at the head of a delegation continued the site visits of reception facilities started in September 2021.



Port-a-Piment :

Renovation of the reception kiosk and the access road to the Grotte Marie-Jeanne, including the construction of a rest area for visitors and for the community.



Port-Salut :

Rehabilitation work on the access staircase leading to Cascade Touyac in Port-Salut. The facilities also include a toilet block, showers and a laundry area upstream for the neighboring population while respecting the ecosystem (Scheduled for September 2022)



Aquin :

Renovation work started in 2017 on the square which will be finalized next September.



Fort Saint-Joseph of Cap-Haitien :

On August 6, the reopening of Fort Saint-Joseph in Cap-Haitien took place in the presence of high dignitaries of the city, including the deputy mayor, Mr. Patrick Almonor and various actors from civil society.



Let's recall that the restoration of Fort Saint Joseph, located 77 meters south of Fort Picolet is the result of a partnership between the private sector of Cap-Haitien, in particular the Fatima Group, the Institute for the Protection of National Heritage (ISPAN) , the Town Hall of Cap-Haitien and the North Departmental Direction of the Ministry of Tourism.



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-36572-haiti-tourism-all-is-not-yet-lost-dixit-minister-francois.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-36486-haiti-tourism-important-academic-exchange-with-the-dominican-republic.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35824-haiti-tourism-return-of-the-first-cruise-ship-in-haiti.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35690-haiti-heritage-monitoring-of-the-matheux-project.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35612-haiti-north-towards-the-revitalization-of-tourism.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35064-haiti-tourism-minister-cassandra-francois-on-tour-in-the-north.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-15031-haiti-tourism-30-tourist-projects-will-start-on-the-south-coast.html



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Foreign Minister Park Jin, left, and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pose during their meeting in Qingdao, China, Tuesday. Courtesy of Ministry of Foreign Affairs



By Kang Seung-woo



Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pressed South Korea, Tuesday, to act independently as the United States ramps up pressure on Seoul to side with Washington amid an intensifying U.S.-Sino rivalry.



Foreign Minister Park Jin and Wang held the talks during his first trip to China since taking office in May and the meeting was widely seen as being crucial to setting the tone for Seoul-Beijing relations under the conservative Yoon Suk-yeol administration.



"While the two countries head toward the 30th anniversary of the establishment of South Korea-China diplomatic ties, both sides should maintain independence without being affected by the outside," Wang said, adding that the two countries should consider each other's interests.



"We have to adhere to a win-win to ensure a stable and smooth supply chain," he added.



Wang's remarks came as thorny issues between the two neighboring countries are expected to hamper their bilateral relations  although the two sides are scheduled to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties two weeks later.



The Yoon Suk-yeol administration is set to join the U.S.-proposed chip alliance, also known as Chip 4 or Fab 4, believed to be a platform to counter Beijing's rising influence in global supply chains.










Haiti - News : Zapping...





Cap-Haitien : Communal Development Plan

Friday, August 6, 2022, the official presentation ceremony of the Five-Year Communal Development Plan of the commune of Cap-Haitien took place in the presence of several personalities from civil society and members of the local community. The final document is almost ready and the process launched in July 2020 is complete. This plan was developed as part of the Municipal Development and Urban Resilience (MDUR) project financed by the World Bank and implemented by the Project Coordination Unit of the Ministry of the Interior with the technical support of the Institute of Training & Services (IFOS).



Failures of the international community

In 20 years of flawed political strategy the international community has not been able to facilitate the construction of a single institution with the capacity to respond to the problems of Haitians. 20 years later, not a single institution is stronger than it was before, recognizes the OAS which, despite everything, believes that Haiti cannot get out of it without the cooperation of the international community. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37355-haiti-flash-the-oas-accuses-and-denounces-20-years-of-failures-in-haiti-of-the-international-community.html



The Minister of Culture in Montreal

Monday August 8, 2022, Fritz Dorvillier, the Consul General of Haiti in Montreal had the pleasure of welcoming the writer Emmelie Prophete and accompanying her as Minister of Culture to an important meeting with Marie Gregoire, President and CEO of the National Library and Archives of Quebec.



Discussion with the US Charge d'Affaires

Friday, Berto Dorce, the Minister of Justice and Public Security met Eric W. Stromayer Charge d'affaires a.i of the United States in Haiti. On the agenda of the two men, there was talk, among other things, of strengthening cooperation between Haiti and the USA in the areas of justice, police and the fight against crime.



Assassination of former Senator Buissereth : Words of sympathy

ex-Senator Cantave :

"I bitterly mourn the villainous and inhuman assassination of former Senator Yvon Buisseret https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37341-haiti-flash-former-senator-buissereth-director-general-of-eppls-assassinated-then-burned-in-his-vehicle.html . My sincere condolences to his family, loved ones and friends. Let the State do what is right to close this blood valve which already mourns the Haitian people too much."



Rudy Herivaux, former Senator and Minister of Communication

"DG Buissereth and Ronald were mowed down by barbarism and murderous madness. Their cruel death arouses indignation, disgust, revolt. This umpteenth tragedy should also encourage this country to unite against the chronic ills that plague it. Condolences to their loved ones."



Rony Charles Deputy DG of the Public Promotion and Social Housing Company (EPPLS) :

"It is with desolation that the employees of the EPPLS returned to their office Monday morning after this heinous crime, Yvon always had a note for each employee of the institution. We are losing a Mentor, a Counselor and a Father for some."



Other words of sympathy : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-37352-haiti-news-zapping.html



HL/ HaitiLibre


















By Panos Kotzathanasis | Published on 2022/07/08

Action comedies have always been, and will probably continue being one of the most popular genres in cinema, as they combine thrills and laughter, two of the main reasons people go to cinema for. This has resulted in the category being one of the most populated with titles, to the point that has become kind of preterit, with very few films managing to avoid the cliches of the category. Sometimes, though, a director comes that can handle all the elements of the combination, resulting in truly great titles. "Mission Possible" is definitely one of those.

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Rookie Chinese secret agent Yoo Da-hee has just received her first mission, to investigate a shipment of 500 Tokarev pistols that were supposed to be delivered to North Korea, but instead, after a hijack, ended up in S. Korean hands. As sending their own team could cause a series of problems, they have choses to recruit the young girl, most of all because she is expendable. Her connection in S. Korea is agent Chao, who has enlisted the office of a loser detective Woo Soo-han, in order for the two to have their meeting. Just before that, however, he is involved in a traffic accident, and the girl ends up in Woo's office, thinking that he is her connection. A large sum of money offered convinces the young man to get involved, but expectedly, the problems the two face in their research soon prove too big, and his knack of dressing up both of them every chance they get, does not help, with their bickering being almost constant. Essentially through sheer luck, they manage to progress their investigation, while soon, a number of more secrets come to the fore.

The rather intense, action fueled intro and the almost immediate subsequent scenes that introduce the main characters in humoristic fashion highlight newcomer's Kim Hyung-joo-III's best trait, of ideally switching from comedy to action, in a way that retains interest from beginning to end, while keeping the movie entertaining at all times. Granted, comedy takes the largest part, benefiting the most by the excellent chemistry of Kim Young-kwang as Woo Soo-han and Lee Sun-bin as Yoo Da-hee, but when the action comes, the result is quite astonishing.

Regarding the chemistry, it is also of note how Kim handles it, by having Soo-han appear useless but still always convincing Da-hee to do what he wants, mostly revolving around both getting dressed-up, in an element that also highlights their beauty, even if the focus is on her. At the same time, when the transformation comes, the way the balance changes is so surprising, that actually ends up being one of the most impressive elements of the narrative. This twist also showcases the performances here, but most of all, Kim Young-kwang's, who is quite convincing in his both capacities.

The result of this transformation is a series of action scenes that are tremendous to watch, quite more violent than the previous ones, in a number of sequences that highlight the excellent job in the action choreography, both in the knife and the gun scenes, but also Heo Sun-mi's editing and Nam Hyun-woo's cinematography, all of which find their apogee here. At the same time, some of the comedic moments, like the one with Puerto Rico and the very last one, are also quite memorable, resulting in a movie that works both as a comedy and an action thriller. Add to all that a great villain in the face of Oh Dae-hwan and you have an all around impressive title.

"Mission Possible" is a masterclass in action comedy, a film that ticks all the boxes of the category and a truly fun to watch movie.

Review by Panos Kotzathanasis

___________

"Mission: Possible" is directed by Kim Hyung-joo-III, and features Kim Young-kwang, Lee Sun-bin, Oh Dae-hwan, Seo Hyun-chul, Choi Byung-mo, Kim Tae-hoon. Release date in Korea: 2021/02/17.

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Prosecutors said Tuesday they have refiled a murder charge against a university freshman accused of attempting to rape a female schoolmate and causing her to fall to her death.







The 20-year-old student of Inha University in Incheon, 27 kilometers west of Seoul, was earlier detained for investigation on charges of attempting to rape the victim and causing her to fall to her death from a campus building on July 15.







The Incheon District Prosecutors' Office said it has indicted the man on the charge of murdering the victim by willful negligence and sexually assaulting her.







The prosecution office said the man must have known that falling from the building could lead to death as the victim  who was drunk at the time  was left abandoned on the ground for more an hour after her fall.







The suspect allegedly drank together with her and others, before the two left the group saying he would escort her back to school.







The prosecution, however, did not bring an additional charge against the man of filming the rape scene, citing a lack of evidence. (Yonhap)


Vice Education Minister Jang Sang-yoon speaks during a plenary meeting of the National Assembly Education Committee, Tuesday, in this pool photo. Yonhap



Vice Education Minister Jang Sang-yoon said Tuesday it has become "realistically difficult" to continue to push ahead with a widely unpopular proposal to lower the elementary school starting age by one year to 5.



The remark was seen as meaning the government is scrapping the proposal after Education Minister Park Soon-ae stepped down a day earlier amid an outcry from teachers and parents against the plan to advance the school starting age.






PRESCRIPTION dispensing machines have been installed by the Goring and Woodcote Medical Practice.

The Pharmaself24 allows patients to pick up prescriptions any time of the day or night, seven days a week.

The practice says this will cut down on unnecessary footfall, improve covid safety and eliminate wasted journeys for patients.

There is one machine at the surgery in Red Cross Road, Goring, and another at the surgery in Wayside Green, Woodcote.

The practice is one of the first in the country to install the devices, which manager Kamlesh Patel described as our Amazon.

He said: For patients juggling work, family and other commitments, there is a real benefit in knowing you can collect your medicines any time of the day, any day of the week.

More than that, you know there will be no waiting in a queue and no chance of your prescription not being ready after having made the journey to the surgeries.

We are proud to be one of the first few GP surgeries in the country to adopt this new service for our dispensing patient community.

Dr Amanda Gemmill, 40, a practice partner based in Woodcote, said: We are an innovative, forward-thinking practice and we want to offer a forward-thinking service. We listened to our patients and one of the things they were struggling with was accessing our dispensary.

It is open from 8am to 6.30pm but people work, have kids or dont always have access to a car.

A lot are commuters and work in London and Reading so arent really here during those hours.

Between them, the surgeries have 10,500 registered patients and dispense around 10,000 items per month.

The new system works by sending a text message to patients with a unique, one-time-use code once the prescription has been loaded into the machine that sits outside a practice like a cash dispenser.

Patients type in the code on a touch screen and the machine then dispenses the prescription into one of six lockers, the door of which will flash to indicate it is open. The machine also has a contactless payment device for those who are charged for prescriptions.

Patients will have four days to collect medications after being notified and will be sent a reminder 24 hours before the deadline to collect.

Dr Gemmill first learned about Pharmaself24 when reading a medical post on Twitter.

She said: I am always reading about innovative things we can bring to the practice and get ideas from bigger practices.

Another practice in the South was using this and I thought it looked like a brilliant idea, so we approached the company and then went through a long consultation process.

That consultation involved looking at funding streams, applying for planning permission for both practices and getting the software and security of the machine fine-tuned.

Mr Patel said: We have to protect the patients data and that took us quite a long time.

We had CCTV put in because we have to protect our patients and the assets because they are coming 24/7 and need to feel safe to come and pick it up.

The cylinders inside the machines can hold 70 prescriptions at once. Each one has a barcode that is matched with the appropriate dispensing slot which is also identified with a barcode.

Mr Patel estimated that 70 per cent of prescriptions could be dispensed by the machines with the exceptions being refrigerated drugs and controlled medications such as morphine.

Feedback from patients so far has been positive.

Judith Peachey, 63, who works as an estate agent, had her first experience of a machine on Friday.

She said: I cant always get here during the day so its going to be nice to have that flexibility to be able to come at whatever time, especially now with petrol being so expensive.

If you are out and about, its nice to be able to do several things in one journey.

The machines were part-funded by a grant from the Medical Equipment Fund and trustees.

Mr Patel said it was hoped to introduce more innovations.

The practice is also going to run a competition next month to name each machine.




Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates will deliver an address at the National Assembly next week about international cooperation on COVID-19, officials said Tuesday.







Gates will visit parliament Tuesday morning to meet with Speaker Kim Jin-pyo and address the parliamentary budget committee about global health cooperation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Kim's office.







Gates, who co-chairs the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is expected to touch on the importance of international cooperation and how South Korea can play a role in this process.







Gates last visited the National Assembly nine years ago when he gave a speech on his foundation to some 40 lawmakers at the invitation of then lawmaker Chung Mong-joon.







In June, Gates and President Yoon Suk-yeol spoke on the phone to discuss efforts to overcome the pandemic and South Korea's contribution to global health cooperation. (Yonhap)




By Kang Seung-woo



Former President Lee Myung-bak and former South Gyeongsang Province Governor Kim Kyoung-soo are not likely to make the list of people that President Yoon Suk-yeol will grant special amnesty to due to concerns that such pardons might negatively affect his declining approval ratings.



However, Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong and other business leaders may be among those pardoned as part of the government's aim to overcome economic challenges.





Former President Lee Myung-bak / Korea Times file
Iran's FM urges U.S. to act realistically to end nuclear talks

Xinhua) 09:16, August 09, 2022

TEHRAN, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Iranian foreign minister said on Monday that if parties to the Vienna talks, especially the United States, act realistically and avoid adopting unconstructive approaches, the road will be paved for an agreement on the revival of a 2015 nuclear deal.

Hossein Amir-Abdollahian made the remarks in a phone conversation with European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Josep Borrell after the latest round of the Vienna talks came to an end earlier in the day, according to the Iranian Foreign Ministry's website.

Amir-Abdollahian added the Iranian negotiating team took part in the talks in the Austrian capital with the sincerity to reach a deal and put forward constructive ideas to resolve the remaining issues.

Tehran has informed Enrique Mora, EU coordinator for the Vienna talks, of its views and considerations about his proposed ideas, the Iranian foreign minister said.

All parties are expected to show determination and sincerity to come up with a final text of a draft agreement, he added.

A final deal must fulfill the rights and interests of the Iranian people and guarantee the sustainable removal of anti-Iran sanctions, Amir-Abdollahian noted.

Borrell tweeted earlier in the day that "what can be negotiated has been negotiated, and it's now in a final text."

"However, behind every technical issue and every paragraph lies a political decision that needs to be taken in the capitals," he said, adding that "if these answers are positive, then we can sign this deal."

Iran signed the nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to curb its nuclear program in return for the removal of sanctions on the country. However, former U.S. President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the agreement and reimposed unilateral sanctions on Tehran, prompting the latter to drop some of its commitments under the pact.

The talks on reviving the JCPOA began in April 2021 in Vienna but were suspended in March this year because of political differences between Tehran and Washington.

The latest round of talks, which had begun on Thursday following a five-month hiatus, came to an end on Monday.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
People Power Party's National Committee Chairman Suh Byung-soo, left, bangs the gavel to approve revisions to the party's charter allowing acting chairman Kweon Seong-dong, right, to name an interim chief, during a national committee meeting at the National Assembly on Yeouido, Seoul, Tuesday. Joint Press Corps



Young leader set to file injunction



By Nam Hyun-woo





Rep. Joo Ho-young / Korea Times file

The People Power Party (PPP) launched an emergency committee on Tuesday that will serve as its interim leadership, just three months after the ruling camp won the presidential election.



With the launch of the interim committee, the party's Chairman Lee Jun-seok, who has been butting heads with lawmakers close to President Yoon Suk-yeol after being suspended for six months from party affairs, will be unable to return to the chairmanship. As Lee is poised to file for a court injunction calling for the suspension of the party's transition to the interim leadership, more political upheavals are anticipated in the ruling party's ongoing power struggle.



The PPP's national committee held an online meeting at the National Assembly and amended the party's charter to allow acting chairman, Rep. Kweon Seong-dong, to appoint the head of the emergency committee. Following the revision, five-term Rep. Joo Ho-young was named as the interim chief after winning the unanimous approval of 73 lawmakers attending the party's Assembly member meeting.



Joo is considered a moderate conservative and is part of a group close to former President Lee Myung-bak. He served as the PPP's floor leader from 2020 to 2021 and also as acting interim chief of the party.



The transition came approximately three months after the PPP became the ruling party after President Yoon's May 10 inauguration. Also, it is the first time in 14 months for the party to have an interim leadership. The PPP appointed veteran politician Kim Chong-in as its interim chief after suffering a crushing defeat in 2020.



The emergency committee came in the wake of the ruling bloc's struggles in the past three months. While Yoon's rating continued to fall amid controversies surrounding him and the presidential office, the party was mired in factional infighting between pro-Yoon lawmakers and Lee, which peaked when the president's text messages portraying the young party leader as a troublemaker was captured in a photograph.



"Under the recognition that the party and the Yoon government are now in an emergency situation, we came up with the emergency committee plan in order to regain public trust as the ruling party and assist the Yoon government's stable management of state affairs," said Suh Byung-soo, the PPP's national committee head.



However, it remains uncertain whether the interim leadership can address the party's internal rift and worsening public sentiment towards the PPP, because opinions are mixed over how to form the emergency committee, how long will it last and how will it elect the next chairman.



The next chairman will likely exercise his or her right to recommend the party's candidates for the 2024 general elections.





People Power Party Chairman Lee Jun-seok enters his office at the National Assembly in this June 22 file photo. Korea Times photo by Oh Dae-keun
On Monday, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested two Bangladeshi individuals from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh for encouraging Muslims to carry out Jihadi activities against India. The two individuals have been identified as Hamidullah and Mohammed Sahadat Hussain and are associated with the Islamist terrorist organization named Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).

According to the reports, the accused are highly radicalized Bangladeshi individuals who were trying to propagate the JMB ideology through the internet. The accused posted hateful and incriminating content online and motivated the Muslim youth to carry out jihad against India.

The arrested accused (Hamidullah and Hussain) are highly radicalized individuals and involved in propagating Jihad by posting hateful and incriminating materials online in various groups on different social media platforms to radicalize other people, one of the NIA officials was quoted.

The NIA officials also said that the two have been arrested in the case related to the arrest of six active cadres of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh. Along with the six cadres, the Police then also arrested three Bangladeshi illegal immigrants from Aishbagh, Bhopal. Reports mention that the apprehended men were close acquaintances of the previously arrested six JMB cadres and were communicating with their associates in India and Bangladesh using encrypted applications.

Earlier in March this year also, the Bhopal Police arrested four members of the Jamaat-e-Mujahideen Bangladesh from the Aishbagh and Karond areas of Bhopal. The operation was carried out by a joint team based on a tip-off. According to the reports, the Police recovered a huge quantity of jihadi literature, electronic equipment, and incriminating documents.

The NIA has detained nine JMB cadres so far. On March 14, a case in this respect was initially lodged at Police Station STF Bhopal. The JMB, an Islamic terrorist group based in Bangladesh, is also designated as a terrorist organization by the United Kingdom. The Union government banned the terror group JMB in May 2019.

Source: OpIndia
Cars and pedestrians pass a flooded road in Seoul's Gangnam District, Monday night. Yonhap





The heaviest rainfall in 80 years has pounded Seoul and surrounding regions, leaving eight people dead and six others missing, as well as flooding homes, vehicles, buildings and subway stations, officials said Tuesday.







Parts of Seoul, the western port city of Incheon and Gyeonggi Province that surrounds Seoul received heavy rains of over 100 millimeters per hour Monday night, with per-hour precipitation in Seoul's Dongjak district surpassing 141.5 mm at one point, the highest downpour per hour since 1942.







The Korea Meteorological Administration said up to 300 mm of more rain is forecast for the capital area through Thursday, with southern Gyeonggi Province likely to see rains surpassing 350 mm.







The downpours left five people dead and four others missing in Seoul, while in Gyeonggi Province, three had died and two others had gone missing as of 11 a.m., according to the government.







Nine people sustained injuries in Gyeonggi Province and 391 people from 230 households in the capital area were left homeless and took shelter in schools and other public facilities.







In Seoul's Gwanak district, three family members  a woman in her 40s, her sister and the sister's teenage daughter  reported they were trapped in a submerged semi-basement home at 9:07 p.m. Monday but were later found dead.







In Dongjak, a ward office employee in his 60s died of what was believed to be electric shocks at 6:50 p.m. during clean-up work after a roadside tree fell down due to the rain.







An additional person was killed at 5:40 p.m. in a submerged home in the district.







[PHOTOS] Damage after torrential rains Seoul districts battered by month's worth of rain in one day Yoon calls for all-out efforts to minimize damage from heavy rains In the city of Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province, one person was found dead trapped under the debris after a bus station collapsed, while one other died in the province after a landslip left him buried in earth.



The city of Hwaseong in Gyeonggi reported one person killed in a landslide at 4:27 a.m. Tuesday.



In Seoul's Seocho district, four people went missing, some in a corridor of an underground shopping area and others down a manhole, while two others in Gyeonggi's Gwangju remained unaccounted for after being swept away in a flooded stream.



The downpours also left many public facilities out of service, with eight cases of flooded railroads reported in Seoul, Incheon and elsewhere, and causing temporary suspension of services in sections of some railway and subway lines, including Seoul Subway Line 4 and the Gyeongin Line.



About 80 sections of the country's roads, three underground roadways and 26 riverside parking lots were blocked for safety concerns.



Entry into 156 hiking courses at five national mountain parks, including Mount Bukhan in the northern periphery of Seoul, remain barred. Eight passenger ferry routes also remained out of service Tuesday.



Authorities also closed sections of some highways in Seoul on Tuesday morning, including the Olympic and Dongbu expressways.



Fire authorities also rescued 88 people from flooded streams in Gyeonggi and other areas, the government also said.



The interior ministry upgraded its flood damage watch level from "alert" to "serious" at 1 a.m. Tuesday.



As of 6 a.m., the country's central and other regions were receiving rains of up to 50 mm per hour, with the accumulated precipitation in Seoul reaching 422 mm from Monday through 8 a.m. Tuesday, according to the Korea Meteorological Administration.



The Korea Forest Service issued landslide advisories in 47 cities and counties across the nation Tuesday morning, including in nine districts in Seoul, parts of Incheon, Gyeonggi, Gangwon, and North and South Chungcheong provinces. (Yonhap)




By Kim Ae-ran





"SIGNIS World Congress 2022" will be held on the topic of "Peace in the Digital World" from Aug. 16 to 19 at Jeong Hasang Hall, Sogang University in Seoul.



SIGNIS is a combination of the words "SIGN" and "IGNIS" (Latin for "fire"). The mission of SIGNIS is "to engage with media professionals and support Catholic communicators to help transform our cultures in the light of the Gospel by promoting human dignity, justice and reconciliation."



One of the particular things that drew my attention is the collection movement of sleeping (unused or extra) rosaries at home. The rosary is a string of beads used by Catholics when praying to the Virgin Mary. The rosary is most popular form of prayer among Catholics. So it is common for those who have been baptized to have several rosaries. Each Catholic has at least one rosary. Many faithful Catholics have various rosaries at home.



Participating in the collection movement of sleeping rosaries to donate to people, especially in Africa, Scolastica, an elder sister of Sr. Susannaa in our congregation expressed the following:



"From our parish priest, I just heard about the petition to collect sleeping rosaries to send to those who are having difficulties economically. In Africa, many people hesitate whether to buy food to eat or to buy the rosary to pray I couldn't collect sleeping rosaries by myself alone. I am so happy to imagine Africans praying to the Virgin Mary with the rosaries"
Lee Johnson has been promoted to Human Resources and Training Manager Australia and New Zealand.

Lee joined Nesuto in early 2019 as Learning and Development Manager and Relief Hotel Manager. Lee spent his first year with the group working across Australia and New Zealand in leadership positions. He created the group's brand signature service ethos and in-house training program, Make the Call, which has been rolled out to empower teams to deliver great guest experiences.

In his new role, Lee will be responsible for all Human Resource-related matters across Australia and New Zealand, training, and development opportunities, assisting with mentoring team members and ensuring Nesuto 'stays real'.
Assembly ban could limit freedom of expression



The Seoul Metropolitan Government said it would preemptively block large-scale assemblies or demonstrations in Gwanghwamun Square, which was recently reopened to the public after a two-year renovation last weekend. Municipal officials said they would not allow rallies and protests and would achieve this by strictly screening applications for gatherings. It is ridiculous that City Hall sorts out official assemblies in advance based on their nature and political purpose. If officials arbitrarily apply permission criteria, it is likely to infringe upon the freedom of assembly and association guaranteed by the Constitution.



City Hall cites that the square's intended use is for "citizens' leisure and cultural activities" stipulated in an ordinance as the basis for its new policy. However, it is preposterous to filter out various gatherings where citizens want to express their diverse views under the pretext of providing a resting place for citizens. It is an idea based on administrative expediency regarding assemblies as only the targets of control. Legal experts also point out that it is probably unconstitutional for municipal officials to decide the permission of events due to their nature.



The city plans to activate an advisory group composed of experts in five areas for rigorous preliminary examinations. Officials say the group aims to strengthen expertise in judging the permission of gatherings. However, one can seldom know on what criteria and basis the advisory group will screen and judge events. It is also absurd that an advisory group, not the courts, will be judging whether to permit submitted plans to hold events.



A plaza should be an open space for citizens where anyone can express and exchange opinions. A square where only voices that suit the government's taste can be heard is not a square. If the authorities are concerned about the public's inconvenience due to noise and traffic obstruction, they have only to realign regulatory standards. If the pronounced policy came from the intentions of the metropolitan government or the Yoon Suk-yeol administration to run the square on their terms, it's a regression to the old days. They must withdraw the idea immediately.








Sable at Navy Pier, a Curio Collection by Hilton developed by Maverick Hotels & Restaurants has already seen great success since opening in March of 2021. Within the first year of operation, Sable has been recognized for various awards including 10 Best's Readers' Choice Travel Awards and Top 10 Hotels in Chicago by USA Today. To continue catapulting this high-end oasis into one of the best hotels - not only in the City, but in the country - the team now officially announces the appointment of Randy Romero to lead as General Manager. With over 25 years of experience in the Chicago market, including 15+ years with the Hilton brand supporting hundreds of properties spanning the East and West coasts, Romero will now take on this pivotal role at the first and only hotel on the City's iconic Navy Pier.

Romero's passion for hospitality spans over three decades and hundreds of Hilton properties covering California and New York, to Canada and even Tanzania. Originally from California, Romero started his career by chance, having attended Cypress College to study Human Services. Always intrigued by people and human connection, Romero found himself at a brand-new Hilton in Anaheim, California. He worked as a Guest Services Agent and quickly moved up to Front Office Supervisor, before going on to lead front offices at renowned hotels like The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Hilton Chicago, and the Waldorf Astoria in New York. During this time, Romero was also one of the original pioneers to be involved in the launch of Hilton Honors, where he helped work through some of the very first initiatives that have since grown exponentially into the worldwide programs they are today. From there, Romero went on to receive his first Regional Director role where he oversaw a large portfolio of Hilton's full-service hotels. Most recently, he served as General Manager of the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, where he was responsible for the overall operation of the prominent 495-room property nestled in the Hollywood Hills at the entrance of major motion picture and television studios.

Within his new role at Sable, Romero will lead the team with positivity, nurturing a culture where employees feel confident in the work they do by offering them the support they need to thrive. Romero aims to ensure an appropriate work/life balance for his team, calling it one of his top priorities for the property. "Crafting an exceptional hotel experience requires an exceptional team, and a team like that is worth investing in," he says. As a Curio Collection by Hilton, Sable has its own personality and flavor - something Romero hopes to take to a whole new level. By investing in unique experiences for travelers and a positive work environment for team members, his goal is to create both long-lasting guests and employees.
OpenKey, the industry standard for universal Digital Key in hotels, today announced that Adam Thomas has joined the company as its Chief Operations Officer (COO). In this new role, Mr. Thomas will focus on improving operational efficiencies as OpenKey continues to scale, as well as reinforcing cross-departmental relationships for greater effectiveness.

Mr. Thomas, who has more than 20 years of experience driving operational efficiency and introducing product solutions that improve customer experiences, joins OpenKey from Revinate (formerly Go Moment), where he served as VP of Operations. Previously he held positions at LegalZoom, Bambee, and HelloTech among others. Mr. Thomas is an expert at creating, adapting, and improving new and existing processes for scalability. He brings a strong executive presence to drive strong organizational results.

OpenKey is a majority-owned subsidiary of Ashford Inc. (NYSE American: AINC). Certain statements and assumptions in this press release contain or are based upon "forward-looking" information and are being made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, among others, statements about OpenKey's operational efficiencies, growth and initiatives. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Such statements are also subject to numerous assumptions and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control.

These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, including, without limitation: the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, including the resurgence of cases relating to the spread of the Delta, Omicron or other potential variants, that could cause state and local governments to reinstate travel restrictions and the rate of adoption and efficacy of vaccines to prevent COVID-19, on our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations; our ability to continue as a going concern; our understanding of our competition; market trends; projected capital expenditures; the impact of technology on our operations and business; general volatility of the capital markets; availability, terms and deployment of capital; availability of qualified personnel; changes in our industry and the markets in which we operate, interest rates or the general economy; and the degree and nature of our competition. These and other risk factors are more fully discussed in Ashford Inc.'s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions, and expectations of our future performance taking into account all information currently known to us. These beliefs, assumptions, and expectations can change as a result of many potential events or factors, not all of which are known to us. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans, and other objectives may vary materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. You should carefully consider this risk when you make an investment decision concerning Ashford Inc.'s securities. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We can give no assurance that these forward-looking statements will be attained or that any deviation will not occur. We are not obligated to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances, changes in expectations, or otherwise, except to the extent required by law.

OpenKey

Dallas, Texas

United States Website
DALLAS, TX - UniFocus, the leading provider of Workforce Management Systems, has today announced the adoption of both its Labor Management and Time & Attendance platforms by TPI Hospitality. Serving as Minnesotas largest developer and operator of hospitality-based businesses, TPI Hospitality has currently implemented Time & Attendance across its portfolio with Labor Management soon to follow and with both solutions planned for the Margaritaville resort under construction in Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

As an organization experiencing rapid growth with approximately 40 properties situated as far as southern Florida, TPI Hospitality recognized that its existing workforce management platforms were unable to address the operational complexities of its diverse range of locations. With its Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach resort set to open in 2023, the company determined that UniFocus, with its enhanced capabilities in labor management, was the industrys sole provider capable of maintaining high levels of productivity and service quality, as TPI Hospitality continues to expand its market presence.

Within just our F&B operations alone, UniFocus has greatly impressed us with their ability to fully resolve our key needs in managing hotel staff teams, ensuring that our resources are always aligned to deliver on heightened guest expectations, said Robert Kisabeth, COO of TPI Hospitality. The companys proven technology will no doubt play a central role as our portfolio continues to expand and as we strive to provide each of our guests with swifter and more responsive high-quality service.

Key to the decision to partner with UniFocus is the providers ability to offer a solution capable of integrating with third-party platforms and leveraging advanced AI, not only automating the scheduling process but delivering granular insight into precisely where and when staff resources are needed. In contrast to the platform previously used by TPI Hospitality, Labor Management by UniFocus forecasts anticipated service demand levels, both by the hour and by department. This in turn results in the automatic designing of optimized work schedules, ensuring that each department always has the necessary resources to deliver exceptional guest experiences, while eliminating the risks of under- or overstaffing that can result in employee burnout or increased costs. By adopting UniFocus Labor Management solution, TPI Hospitality also streamlines hotelier abilities to effectively cross-utilize employees within hotels and across multiple properties in markets where they manage several locations. Capable of automatically identifying the individual skillsets of each employee, UniFocus technology stands apart in its ability to resolve potential labor shortage issues by appointing appropriately skilled workers to staff various departments as their respective demand volumes change.

People are an organizations most valuable asset, but ensuring that each employee is able to work to their full potential requires the support of labor management technology, said Moneesh Arora, CEO of UniFocus. We are thrilled that TPI Hospitality has already experienced a drastic increase in productivity, and look forward to seeing even greater results as we move forward with our partnership.

With Time & Attendance currently implemented across its range of properties, TPI Hospitality has already begun to experience the efficiency-enhancing benefits that UniFocus provides. This includes providing employees with considerable time-saving abilities by allowing them to clock-in using their own personal devices, bypassing the need to first visit a backend office before beginning to work on daily tasks. Thanks to its ability to integrate with third-party systems, Time & Attendance also facilitates the ability to adopt same day pay and tip practices. Sidestepping what would otherwise take managers countless hours to achieve, the integration addresses a core concern of frontline workers who often have to rely on predatory lending services to pay bills. With UniFocus compatibility with a range of same day tip and payment platforms, TPI employees can look forward to accessing both wages and tips as soon as a shift has been completed, resulting in heightened staff loyalty and dedication to providing exceptional service.

About UniFocus

UniFocus is the only complete workforce management platform designed to fundamentally shift the way service industries manage labor. The powerful platform helps managers plan with intelligent Labor Management tools that automatically produce accurate forecasts, optimized schedules based on business demand, employee availability, service standards and work rules. Staff is easily aligned with a world class Time and Attendance module that communicates schedules and facilitates swaps with tools like Shift Genius that live within an intuitive mobile app. Once scheduled, frontline employees operate with ease from the industry leading Knowcross Task Management suite that streamlines guest services, housekeeping, maintenance, inspections and glitches.

With traditional workplace silos removed, managers benefit from a complete view of analytics and a personalized virtual assistant, Odin, that highlights opportunities to improve productivity and cost controls while keeping an eye on guest satisfaction and employee engagement. UniFocus is arming managers with best-in-class decision making technology in the hospitality, restaurant, retail, and healthcare industries.

Check us out at UniFocus.com to learn more about the labor paradigm shift.

Corey McCarthy

Chief Marketing Officer

972-512-5100
DALLAS - OpenKey, the industry standard for universal Digital Key in hotels, today announced that Adam Thomas has joined the company as its Chief Operations Officer (COO). In this new role, Mr. Thomas will focus on improving operational efficiencies as OpenKey continues to scale, as well as reinforcing cross-departmental relationships for greater effectiveness.

Mr. Thomas, who has more than 20 years of experience driving operational efficiency and introducing product solutions that improve customer experiences, joins OpenKey from Revinate (formerly Go Moment), where he served as VP of Operations. Previously he held positions at LegalZoom, Bambee, and HelloTech among others. Mr. Thomas is an expert at creating, adapting, and improving new and existing processes for scalability. He brings a strong executive presence to drive strong organizational results.

Ive spent the majority of my career at companies committed to pioneering customer-facing technology, Mr. Thomas remarked. I believe that OpenKey will change the way guests interact with hotel staff, how people access their rooms, and a host of other improvements in the hospitality industry. Im excited to be a part of those changes!

"As OpenKey continues its trajectory of growth and success, we look forward to Adams insights in enhancing operational and business efficiencies, OpenKey CEO Stephen Bodnar commented. We are thrilled to have him on board and look forward to working together to continue strengthening relationships across the company and with our partners and clients.

About OpenKey

In 2014, OpenKey set out to perfect mobile access. Since then, the OpenKey team has helped hotels and resorts around the world develop a guest experience they can enjoy as much as their guests do. We work with existing platforms to advance your property into an exciting new era of customer engagement. Our dedicated staff provides a seamless transition to keyless entry, remote check-in, hotel-specific apps, and much more, all tailored to your property and your guests. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices. For more information, please visit www.openkey.co.

OpenKey is a majority-owned subsidiary of Ashford Inc. (NYSE American: AINC). Certain statements and assumptions in this press release contain or are based upon "forward-looking" information and are being made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, among others, statements about OpenKey's operational efficiencies, growth and initiatives. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. Such statements are also subject to numerous assumptions and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control.

These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, including, without limitation: the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, including the resurgence of cases relating to the spread of the Delta, Omicron or other potential variants, that could cause state and local governments to reinstate travel restrictions and the rate of adoption and efficacy of vaccines to prevent COVID-19, on our business, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations; our ability to continue as a going concern; our understanding of our competition; market trends; projected capital expenditures; the impact of technology on our operations and business; general volatility of the capital markets; availability, terms and deployment of capital; availability of qualified personnel; changes in our industry and the markets in which we operate, interest rates or the general economy; and the degree and nature of our competition. These and other risk factors are more fully discussed in Ashford Inc.'s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions, and expectations of our future performance taking into account all information currently known to us. These beliefs, assumptions, and expectations can change as a result of many potential events or factors, not all of which are known to us. If a change occurs, our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans, and other objectives may vary materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. You should carefully consider this risk when you make an investment decision concerning Ashford Inc.'s securities. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We can give no assurance that these forward-looking statements will be attained or that any deviation will not occur. We are not obligated to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances, changes in expectations, or otherwise, except to the extent required by law.

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Q. I have a 12-acre wooded property that is surrounded on two sides by 28 homes that have wood privacy fencing belonging to the homeowners behind their back yards. When the homes were first constructed in the 1970s, there were no gates. Over time, six of the homeowners have installed gates that lead into my property. No permission was ever granted for this. As soon as they walk through the gates, they are trespassing onto my property. How can I prevent this from happening?

A. You could install your own fence. That way, when your neighbors open their gates, they wont be able to enter your property.

In fact, you really only need half a dozen 10-foot sections that block their gates. That way, you wont have to spend too much money to fix the problem.

You could also contact the neighbors or hire an attorney to contact them for you, but it doesnt seem like either of those approaches would effectively and efficiently solve the problem.

Q. I am the independent executor of my deceased aunts estate. Once the remaining debts are paid, the 12 beneficiaries will share about $200,000. Are there any documents or processes to complete before making distributions to the various parties?

A. After all the debts have been paid, you can distribute the money to the beneficiaries.

Sometimes, an executor will request that each beneficiary sign a release stating that they have received all that they are entitled to receive and that they release the executor from all liability. If you have concerns with any of the beneficiaries, you should ask your attorney to prepare releases for all of them to sign.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Answers to your legal questions

Executors sometimes fail to account for all possible debts. For instance, there may be a final income tax return that needs to be filed next year, and there might be income taxes owed when that return is filed. If you distribute $16,600 or so to each beneficiary, you may have a very difficult time getting them to reimburse you for those expenses.

Its important for you to be sure all possible debts and expenses have been paid before you distribute the money.

You may also want to close the probate. Talk to your attorney about whether that is advisable.

Q. My wife and I had a trust drawn up six years ago by an attorney, and last year it was amended by his legal secretary. The attorney recently surrendered his license and is being prosecuted for defrauding clients. His law firm was placed in bankruptcy and shut down. Fortunately, we were not victims in the fraud case. Is our trust still valid?

A. Probably. But you should hire another attorney to review the agreement.

It is not standard practice for a secretary to do legal work without any oversight from an attorney. That is another good reason to have your trust and the amendment reviewed.

The information in this column is intended to provide a general understanding of the law, not legal advice. Ronald Lipman of the Houston law firm Lipman & Associates is board-certified in estate planning and probate law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Email questions to

stateyourcase@lipmanpc.com.
Texans who use a phone should expect to pay more for that service, thanks to a startling rate increase adopted by the Public Utility Commission of Texas last month.

Commissioners in July voted to increase a longstanding surcharge assessed on telecommunications providers receipts for voice services to 24 percent from 3.3 percent. The new rate, which took effect Aug. 1, will add couple of dollars a month for a consumer with a typical individual cell phone plan, and potentially several times that for customers with family plans, or those who pay for calls on a per-minute basis.

Its unprecedented, said Rusty Moore, COO of BBT Telecom, a provider headquartered in Alpine, and board president of the Texas Telephone Association.

The move came after a court ordered the PUC to restore $200 million in overdue money to the Texas Universal Service Fund, which provides support to the states rural telecoms, which serve some 4 million customers across Texas. Federal and state rules invoke a standard of universal service, meaning that all Americans should have access to basic communications services, but the low population density of rural areas means that service providers struggle to turn a profit without charging exorbitant rates. The Texas Universal Service Funds financing mechanism was established in 1987, by state law, to shore up this system.

The PUC stopped meeting those statutory obligations in January 2021 by failing to make sufficient payments from the universal fund to rural telecoms. The Texas Telephone Association, which represents 43 rural telecoms, sued.

It is the lifeblood of rural communications, thats for sure, Moore said of the Universal Service Fund.. If you look at the large land mass and low density, it provides a mechanism to keep the rates in parity with rates in urban areas.

He explained that BBT, for example, has some 7,000 customers scattered across 18,000 square miles of rugged terrain, including nearly 500 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border as well as Big Bend National Park.

On HoustonChronicle.com: The digital divide is causing major economic problems for rural Texas. What now?

Some TTA members had said they were at risk of closing, after the PUC stopped making payments in full.

The PUC, in a statement, said the increased fees were imposed on the telecom companies, and they are not required to pass on the costs onto residential and business customers. But in practice, telecommunications providers typically choose to do so, the agency explains in a separate Universal Service Fund fact sheet.

T-Mobile, for example, has begun notifying customers that increased fees will show up on their bills starting this month. The exact increase will depend on the customers plan.

The change will remain in effect for months, if not longer. Rich Parsons, the agencys spokesman, said the PUC plans to reduce the fee in about a year as the fund is replenished. But, he added, the rate may not drop back to its previous level of 3.3 percent unless the commissioners vote accordingly.

It is too soon to know how much the rate will be reduced, he said.

While the Texas Telephone Association heralded the initial court victory, Moore explained that the PUCs approach to covering the gap is really not what the organization had in mind, or considers best. In 2021, TTA had backed legislation that would have extended the universal service fee to voice over internet protocol service providers  which allow users to make phone calls over the internet as well as traditional providers. The bill passed the Texas Legislature with overwhelming support but was vetoed by Gov. Greg Abbott.

It would be better, Moore argued, to have a much longer glide path to restoring the funding with more modest rate increases over a longer period..

This is not what we advocated for in any way, shape, or form, he said.

Moores company, BBT, reckons higher cost residential consumers approximately $4.61 per month, and business customers $6.21.

The company plans to cover the increase itself this month, at least, while it encourages PUC to consider an alternative approach to making up the funding gap.

You cant forget about the consumer, Moore added. Theyre very important in this.

erica.grieder@chron.com
Maelynn Gerdsen's favorite TikTok video is the one her mother filmed on Maelynn's last day of her chemotherapy.

In the video, posted just before last Christmas, the 8-year-old girl and her parents bop to the beat of Title by Meaghan Trainor. As they dance, they put the grueling treatments behind them with a celebratory kiss goodbye.

The video has been viewed 104,000 times, less than some of the others that have gone viral on her mothers TikTok. But for Maelynn, who prefers to go by Mae, it marked the end of an arduous and often scary fight against a rare form of cancer.

MORE HEALTH NEWS: Kids with a rare neurological disorder converged in Houston to meet others from around the world

Mae, who just turned 9 and lives with her mother Kelli Ann Howell in Magnolia, was diagnosed last year with rhabdomyosarcoma, a type of cancer that typically forms in skeletal muscles but can also be found in organs like the bladder. Only 400 to 500 cases are diagnosed every year, mostly in children and teenagers, according to the American Cancer Society.

I didn't know what it meant, because I was still in second grade, and I knew nothing about medical stuff, Mae said. I thought it was just something that would take like two weeks, and then I'd be done. But I was sure wrong.

Doctors at Texas Childrens Hospital opted for an aggressive approach to treating Maes cancer, which was found in her jaw. She underwent 43 weeks of chemotherapy, and halfway through, six weeks of daily radiation treatments were added to her regimen. The treatment was successful, and Mae has now been in remission for more than six months.

Mae shared many of those difficult days through her mothers TikTok. At first, Howell asked her daughter if shed like to be filmed to share her experiences with other children whove just learned they have cancer and might be scared about treatment. But they never expected the videos to be a viral sensation. They have now been viewed more than 8.5 million times, and Howells account has more than 34,000 followers.

Howell, 31, isnt sure what caused the videos to become so popular. Some viewers might have been intrigued by their unique living situation: Maes father  and Howells ex-husband  moved in with them while Mae was undergoing treatment, even though Howells boyfriend also lives in the same home. But other videos just show Howell making beds during their overnight stays in the hospital for Maes treatment, and have been viewed millions of times.

What is clear, though, is the effect the TikTok had for Mae and her mother. It connected them to other families living with rhabdomyosarcoma. Mae was able to meet a friend who had already been through radiation and assured her that it didnt hurt.

Howell met other mothers caring for sick children. She calls them her fellow cancer moms  the mothers who know what its like to be awake in the middle of the night, worrying about platelet counts.

It sucks to be part of the club, she said. But at least youre not alone in the club.

A scary diagnosis

Mae learned she had cancer through an accident, after one of her friends kicked her in the face during gym class. The pain and swelling didnt go away, so her mother took her to a dentist. He happened to be a cancer survivor, and immediately realized something was wrong.

Mae had a biopsy in February 2021, about 10 days before the freeze that caused a power crisis across Texas. With everything shut down, Howell received the results by phone instead of in person.

MORE HEALTH NEWS: Long COVID can be demoralizing for patients. For doctors, it remains a mystery

She knew it would be difficult to care for Mae on her own so she reached out to her ex-husband, who was living in San Antonio. They decided he would move in with them to help care for Mae.

I think that was the main stressor, beyond the cancer, Howell said.

Maes treatment was difficult. Doctors decided against surgery to remove the cancer because it would have required removing a large part of her jaw, said Dr. Sarah Whittle, the director of the soft tissue program at Texas Childrens Hospital. They instead opted for radiation and chemotherapy.

Sometimes, Mae would feel so drained she could tell she was going to fail one of her blood tests before she took it. She needed to make a three-hour round trip for blood tests and chemotherapy every Tuesday and Wednesday. And every third week she needed to be admitted to the hospital for two nights.

Yet through it all, she maintained a positive attitude, Whittle said.

She was very positive and happy, basically the whole time, even when she was going through the most difficult parts of treatments, Whittle said. She always came with a very bright demeanor.

Mae gradually got used to treatment. Early on, she hated needles so much that Howell would hold her down whenever she needed to be poked. But after eight or nine months, Mae didn't mind the needles anymore.

That is just, to me, the visual representation of 43 weeks of treatment, Howell said. It blew my mind. She blows my mind.

Making connections

Howell got the idea to post videos to TikTok as they organized a benefit concert at KEG's Icehouse in Houston, which raised $20,000 for Mae's treatment. She was struck by how comfortable Mae was discussing her cancer.

Howell was already using TikTok to connect with other families living with cancer. She asked Mae whether shed like to share her own story, to show that cancer sucks, but it doesnt have to be scary. Mae agreed.

I thought it was really cool that a bunch of people were watching me, like, get ready [for treatment] and I could tell them what it feels like, said Mae, who approved every video her mother posted.

Their videos showed what it was like to live with cancer. Howell's favorite is her daughter's shave party, when Mae shaved her head after starting chemotherapy. Mae actually enjoyed being bald, though her hair has now grown back.

TikTok helped in other ways, too. Howell set up an Amazon wish list where followers could donate small gifts such as fidget spinners, which Mae was using as makeshift physical therapy to strengthen her hands. And they used social media to raise money to buy Maes favorite bandages  which didnt hurt her skin when she ripped them off  and donated two large boxes to the hospital.

Howell also joined TikToks Creator Fund, which allows popular creators to earn money from their videos. She'll use the money to take Mae to Disney World later this year. Howell left the program once Mae completed her treatment.

While many of the videos offer a glimpse into day-to-day life with cancer, others highlight important milestones. One video is from the day Mae considers to be the best of her life: When she rang a bell that signified she had completed treatment at Texas Childrens Cancer Center.

The video shows her celebrating with family and her Texas Childrens caregivers, and has been viewed more than 1.1 million times.

This job that I have is filled with ups and downs. The highest of highs and the lowest of lows, Whittle said. I can't describe how emotional and how heartwarming it is to see a kid finish their last chemo treatment and finally get to ring that bell saying that they're done.

Mae needs an MRI every three months for the first year after completing treatment, then theyll gradually become less frequent. If the cancer does not return for five years, shell be considered cancer-free, Whittle said.

The TikTok videos have become less frequent since Mae completed treatment, but Howell doesnt mind. Shes happy to keep posting about life and connecting with fellow cancer moms.

One recent video shows how Mae's story has affected others. Texas musician Pamela Mary, who performed at last year's benefit concert, wrote a song called "Teaching Us To Live ," inspired by Mae's story. They reconnected last month to film a music video for the song.

Howell and Mae hope the videos will continue to provide some comfort to others living with cancer, to show that life can return to normal after treatment.

As long as she wants to do them, I am all about putting a face to this terrible thing, Howell said.
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STUTTGART, Germany (AP)  Marine Gen. Michael Langley took over as the top U.S. commander for Africa on Tuesday, heading U.S. military operations on a continent with some of the most active and dangerous insurgent groups and a relatively small Pentagon footprint.

Langley, who made history on Saturday when he became the first African American in the Marine Corps to be promoted to four-star general, took over U.S. Africa Command in a ceremony at Kelley Barracks in Stuttgart, Germany. He is the second African American to lead the command, which has about 6,000-7,000 troops across the continent.

Speaking at the ceremony, the outgoing commander, Army Gen. Stephen Townsend, noted the often limited troops and resources allocated to the continent. There is a new challenge every day and we dont have resources to throw at those challenges. So we have to think, said Townsend, who is retiring after 40 years in the military. America cannot afford to ignore Africa. The continent is full of potential but its also full of challenges and its standing at a historic crossroads.

For years, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, turmoil in the Middle East, a greater focus on an increasingly combative and competitive China and the recent war in Ukraine have dominated the Pentagons attention. But insurgent groups, including al-Qaida and Islamic State militants, flourish in ungoverned spaces in Africa, a nd al-Shabab continues to be a significant threat in Somalia.

Earlier this year, Townsend warned Congress that the U.S. was marching in place at best and may be backsliding in Somalia, because of former president Donald Trumps decision to pull all of the roughly 700 U.S. troops out of the country in his final days in office. His decision forced commanders to rotate small teams of special operations forces and intelligence personnel into the country for short periods of time in order to provide some limited support to the Somali National Army and the mission there.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin earlier this spring authorized the return of about 400 U.S. troops to the embattled country.

On Tuesday, Austin noted that decision, saying that the persistent U.S. military presence to train and assist Somali forces is crucial as al-Shababs attacks on civilians grow more lethal and brazen.

He added that the African continent is on the front lines of many of this centurys most pressing threatsfrom mass migration to food insecurity, from COVID-19 to the climate crisis, from the drumbeat of autocracy to the dangers of terrorism. And he said China is expanding its military footprint there, looking to build bases in Africa and seeking to undermine U.S. relations with African peoples, governments and militaries.

Both Austin and Army Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, noted the historic nature of Langleys appointment.

The Marine, said Milley, is the right leader at the right time with the right skills to lead this command.

And Austin, who is the first African American to serve as Pentagon chief, said that young Marines around the world are watching Langley.

Your extraordinary achievement reminds them that they belong, said Austin. And it reminds them that the United States military is deeply committed to making progress, and to breaking down barriers, and to opening its arms wide to all qualified Americans who hear the call to serve their country.

Langley, who was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington, and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Marines in 1985. His father was in the Air Force.

He told the gathering that his father always told him to aim high. And now, he said, I know I have a lot to do. We have a lot to do, as we look at the African continent and their quest for prosperity, security and stability.

The Marine Corps, which traces its roots to 1775, did not accept Black men in its ranks until 1942, a turnabout that followed the attack on the American air base at Hawaiis Pearl Harbor in 1941 and the U.S. entry into World War II.

Most recently, Langley was commander of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic and Marine Forces Command. He also commanded troops in Afghanistan.

Army Gen. William Kip Ward, also African American, was the first commander of Africa Command when it was launched in 2007.
The man was lodged in Otsego County Jail and is waiting for his arraignment.

The man was lodged in Otsego County Jail and is waiting for his arraignment.

A 39-year-old Alanson man has been taken into custody for stealing a vehicle from a home and driving it through a garage door, Michigan State Police reported.

The man was lodged in Otsego County Jail and is waiting for his arraignment.

Around 5:35 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 4, troopers for the MSP Gaylord Post responded to a complaint of a vehicle driving the wrong way on I-75 near Old State Road, MSP stated in a press release issued Saturday by the agency. Troopers said they located an abandoned vehicle, a 2007 Toyota, on the shoulder of the southbound lane of travel facing north.

The driver reportedly left the vehicle on foot. Dispatch advised troopers there were reports of a man running across I-75 headed west off the freeway. After searching, troopers were unable to locate the man. Leaving the vehicle to be towed from the scene, according to MSP.

Dispatch then said a vehicle had been stolen from a nearby house and it was believed the suspect was the same man who was driving the wrong way on I-75, according to MSP. The homeowner told troopers he was inside his home when he heard a loud noise and then discovered someone had stolen his 2014 Jeep Cherokee from his garage. The thief drove the jeep through the garage door.

The stolen jeep was located on S Old 27 Hwy abandoned and still running, according to MSP. A resident near S Old 27 Hwy reportedly called dispatch and said they saw a man running in their backyard into the woods.

An officer from the Gaylord City Police Department then radioed he was in a foot pursuit with the man. Troopers caught up with the officer and located the man running near a lake, according to MSP.

The suspect brandished a knife and was ordered to put it down. He complied and was arrested without further incident.
Chronicle file

Joske's was looking to set up shop on Houston's southwest side, the Chronicle reported on this day in 1960.

The store would be its third suburban store here. The other two were located at Gulfgate and Northline. The chain also had a home-furnishing center downtown.
Yoon should change how to manage state affairs



President Yoon Suk-yeol must have felt a sense of crisis as his approval rating plummeted to the 20-percent range, unusually low for any president after less than 100 days in office. Returning to work after a week-long summer vacation Monday, he said he would go back to basics in an apparent bid to regain public trust in his administration.



He stressed the need to be humble, figure out what the people want and listen carefully to what they say. His stance now appears different from what it was before  actually he did not care much about his sliding approval ratings until his vacation ended. It is fortunate to see him pledging to uphold the will of the people.



The prosecutor general-turned-president has come under severe criticism for engaging in unilateral policymaking without reflecting diverse public opinions. He has also taken flak for appointing Cabinet ministers and presidential officials based on nepotism.



A case in point is the creation of a police supervisory bureau at the Ministry of the Interior and Safety. This move has triggered a strong backlash from police officers who accuse the government of trying to control the National Police Agency directly. It is regrettable that the administration has failed to reach a national consensus on the controversial issue.



Another case is the Ministry of Education's hasty plan to lower the elementary school entry age by one year to age five. The ministry announced the plan without making any preparations, drawing widespread protests from parents and teachers. At last, the government had to scrap the plan, dealing a setback to the Yoon administration.



Education Minister Park Soon-ae offered to resign Monday, only 34 days after taking office, taking responsibility for the ill-conceived policy. More seriously, the problem has stemmed from Yoon's inability to appoint the right person to the right place. It was wrong to name Park, a public administration scholar with no experience and expertise in education, to take the helm of the education ministry.



Yoon appointed Park without parliamentary hearings because opposition lawmakers were against her appointment, citing her history of drunk driving and plagiarism allegations. Yoon had emphasized the importance of Cabinet nominees' competence. But the Park case only proved the opposite.



Most of all, Yoon needs to reshuffle his Cabinet and presidential staff in order to improve his administration's management of state affairs. He also should refrain from appointing his close confidants  including those with a prosecutor's career  to key posts. It is imperative to have a vast human resource pool to find better-qualified figures for ministerial posts and presidential staff. It is equally important to have a better vetting system in place.



Yoon needs to appoint a special inspector in charge of overseeing possible corruption among his family members and the people close to him. He also must clear up some allegations of favoritism in relation to first lady Kim Keon-hee. It is urgent to prevent his close confidants, such as Rep. Kweon Seong-dong, the floor leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), from monopolizing power and engaging in a dog-eat-dog power struggle.



What's most important is to make decisions and set policies based on social consensus. Otherwise, the Yoon administration will not be able to regain public trust and produce successful results. Yoon should not forget his inaugural commitment to promote national unity and "cooperative" politics.


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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is investigating state environmental regulators accused of civil rights violations that happened when Texas recently updated its standard permit for concrete batch plants  facilities that have plagued communities of color in Houston.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Houstons dangerous concrete plants are mostly in communities of color.

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality officials in 2021 amended the basic permit for batch plants, where materials to make concrete are stored and funneled when needed into concrete truck drums. The Harris County Attorney and nonprofit law firm Lone Star Legal Aid challenged the change.

County Attorney Christian Menefee and Lone Star lawyers alleged in separate complaints to the EPA earlier this year that the state agency discriminated against Black and Latino residents when they didnt adequately ensure communities would be protected and didnt appropriately seek input from people who arent fluent in English.

Local, state and federal leaders celebrated the EPAs decision to look at the discrimination claims Tuesday. They saw it as a chance to win long-sought relief for people who have suffered from batch plants. Facility operators say the plants are safe and need to be close to construction sites. People near them, concerned for their health, plead for them to go far away.

Time and again, the TCEQ has approved permits for additional plants in these very same neighborhoods, and failed to ensure that the pollution that comes out of these plants does not harm human health and the environment, Menefee said. Were here today because the TCEQ failed to address these issues when it had the chance.

TCEQ declined to comment on the investigation.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Aldine residents begged for a chance to stop a concrete plant. They didn't know it was too late.

The state agency changed the general permit for these sites after an attorney pointed out in a contested case for a proposed plant in the Dallas-Fort Worth area that companies had to show that their emissions of materials such as quartz dust, known as crystalline silica, complied with state law. TCEQ changed permit requirements so the issue wouldnt come up again, according to the complaints.

In doing so, state environmental regulators failed to give proper notice for those who speak limited English, the complaints said. They also did not do the needed air emissions modeling to be sure the new rules are safe. Menefees office argues that pollution from tiny particles, known as particulate matter, doesnt meet state standards under the permit either.

Both crystalline silica and particulate matter are harmful to humans.

If youre going to say this is safe, show us, said Amy Dinn, managing attorney with Lone Star Legal Aid. Wheres your modeling?

Applications are frequently submitted to start up concrete batch plants in the Houston area. They elicit strong backlash from residents who often already know what its like to live by one. Residents in Aldine recently packed a room to tell TCEQ not to approve another new plant  only to find out that the deadline had already passed to ask the state agency to escalate the dispute to the next level.

EPA stepping in signaled a shift in that fight for residents who have little more than emotional appeals on their side, and what help they can get from frustrated government representatives.

This is important to us, said Huey German-Wilson, president of the Trinity and Houston Gardens Super Neighborhood, and now we have someone to hear us loud and clear, for the small Black and brown voices in communities that have not been heard.

Politicians at the news conference slammed the state environmental agency for valuing the needs of industry over the health of people. They said that it took President Joe Biden  a fellow Democrat  winning the White House for federal regulators to put pressure on this issue in the conservative Lone Star State. Recent bills proposed in the state legislature largely floundered.

Neighborhoods with batch plants lack deed restrictions and zoning to protect them, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee said. And facilities are often in communities of color  not wealthy, white River Oaks  making what has been happening clear environmental racism, state Sen. Borris Miles said.

Menefees office asked the EPA to stop any new standard concrete batch plant permits from being issued until the investigation is finished, he said. A public meeting has been scheduled later this month for residents to weigh in on a plant thats been proposed in Simonton, a small city west of Houston in rural Fort Bend County.

The politicians gathered were meanwhile clear that they would keep trying to protect residents however they could. County Commissioner Rodney Ellis said they were there to raise hell. State Rep. Senfronia Thompson said they would fight like hell until hell freezes over.

State Rep. Armando Walle said, Its time for TCEQ to do its damn job.

emily.foxhall@chron.com
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Parents of Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District students will be able to block their children from borrowing books from school libraries this year, under a new policy passed by the districts board of trustees.

The seven-member board on Monday night voted unanimously to approve a new library materials policy.

Board members said the new policy was a victory for transparency and parent involvement in their childrens education. But critics who spoke at Monday nights board meeting said the new policy made extra work for librarians and teachers at the beginning of new school year.

The new policy will also allow parents to choose what level of books their child is allowed to read. For instance, some middle school children will only be allowed to access books that are classified as juvenile, unless their parent gives permission for them to check out books classified as young adult, officials said. Older students would have a choice to be allowed to check out adult level books.

SALARY CHECK: How much do teachers in your Texas school district make? Here's what the data shows.

The policy would affect more than 117,000 students across 93 school campuses when implemented in November. The first day of school is Aug. 22.

The new policy comes after months of controversy about public school lessons and library books across Texas. Some parents and conservative lawmakers have accused liberals of smuggling ideological material into public schools.

Last year, the Texas Legislature passed a law banning critical race theory from being taught in Texas schools, restricting how racism and the legacy of slavery can be addressed in class. There have also been efforts by the same groups to ban allegedly inappropriate books from schools and libraries.

Under the new policy, book levels will follow definitions already used by publishers, officials said during a workshop meeting last Thursday. Still, district librarians will have to review thousands of books in its collections to decide which level the books belonged.Teachers will also have to inventory the books in their individual classroom libraries.

School board trustee Lucas Scanlon said the policy enabled parents to understand whats in the library. At the workshop meeting, Scanlon said the district was responding to the need of parents to have a level of comfort.

Board members said the district created its policy based on a memorandum published in April by the Texas Education Agency.

Parents need to feel safe sending our kids to public schools, said Trustee Natalie Blasingame. Parents need to have a voice. If there are parents who dont want their children to have access, they should have a voice to say no.

Blasingame and others officials said the policy was already informally allowed. A parent might call school librarians and tell them not to allow their child to check out certain books or certain authors.

School leaders initially worried the policy would be result in libraries being closed at the beginning of the school year, as librarians and teachers started to review books for their levels. A large group of teachers and school district advocates also protested the policy over the burden it would put on teachers.

The immediate negative impacts on them is urgent, said Stacy DeMyer, a parent with children in the school district. Aside from the fact that we should be trusting our highly trained teachers, requiring them to inventory their books by the first day of school, or else risk they be excluded from use until they do so, is entirely unreasonable.

SURVEY SAYS: More Texas teachers on verge of quitting than at any time in the last 40 years

Based after those complaints and on the the recommendation of the districts legal counsel, the board voted to approve the policy but only implement it in November.

The new board policy requires the district to post a list of all of its library materials on the districts website and allows parents, students over the age of 18, employees and district residents to challenge the level an item was rated at. The policy says that control over instructional materials extends only to his or her own child.

Parents will also be able to view what books their children check out of school libraries.

Speakers and board members at Mondays meeting didnt mention any fspecific books that they considered objectionable.

Some of the speakers during Mondays meeting criticized board members who pushed the policies, calling them extreme and the result of complaints from a small group of parents. In November, three board members ran and won on an anti-critical race theory platform and received the backing of local right-wing political action groups.

Board President Tom Jackson and other board members received a large amount of feedback about the library policy after last Thursdays meeting. He disagreed that the policy was being influenced by a small groups of parents, and it was in third-largest school district in Texas to have a library policy in place before the Texas Legislature convenes next year.

If we can be ahead of the curve, it is better for us as a district, Jackson said. Its better for our teachers and our students.

john.ferguson@chron.com
UVALDE  A long line of speakers blistered the Uvalde school board for about two hours Monday night.

Some slammed the school district for its handling of now-suspended police chief Pedro Pete Arredondo, the incident commander who led the disastrous law-enforcement response to the Robb Elementary mass shooting on May 24. Some criticized other officers on the scene that day, as well as a former Robb principal who was reinstated three days after her suspension.

The board had called the meeting to brief parents on what the district was doing to make Uvalde public schools safer for their children.

At the heart of the criticism  some of it sharp and personal  was the belief among some of the speakers and others in the crowd that district officials had broken its trust with parents, teachers and students. The superintendent, Hal Harrell, conceded as much.

Absolutely, he said when asked in an interview with the San Antonio Express-News if the district had lost the publics faith. Were all in a state of shock still, and trust has been crippled. It really has, and were going to have to build that back.

Asked how he would rebuild trust, he abruptly walked away.

Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

Mondays meeting came in the wake of the school districts disclosure last week that it had moved Mandy Gutierrez, the former principal at Robb, to a new administrative job after briefly suspending her.

Harrell suspended her with pay July 25 following a Texas House committee report on the shooting that killed 19 children and two teachers. Harrell then reinstated her several days later, after she responded in writing to the committee report, disputing some of its findings. On Friday, Harrell announced Gutierrez will now be the districts assistant director of special education.

Her background as both a teacher and a counselor will be invaluable in ensuring students have the support they need during the upcoming school year, he said at the time.

On HoustonChronicle.com: How the tragedy at Uvalde unfolded

The district also announced that Christy Perez would serve as principal of Uvalde Elementary, which is absorbing the bulk of the students who had attended Robb.

Robb Elementary has been closed and will be demolished and replaced.

She cant be principal of Robb because it isnt reopening, Ricardo Cedillo, a San Antonio lawyer representing Gutierrez, said via email. Principal is a school administrative position. She is still employed in an administrative position. She hopes and plans on being a principal again, but (Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District) has always had the option to assign her to a position that meets its needs.

Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

Gutierrezs move to a new job renewed the debate over her level of responsibility for security failures that may have made it easier for the shooter  Salvador Ramos, 18, of Uvalde  to gain access to the Robb campus.

More than two dozen people signed up to address Harrell and the board members, some of them familiar faces at Uvalde City Council sessions where theyve expressed similar grievances  chief among them anger that the school district hasnt fired Arredondo.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Remembering the Uvalde victims

Some in the audience interjected questions and harsh comments amid the back-and-forth between speakers and trustees.

We still need answers, as some of the speakers have said, regarding May 24 when Uvalde lost 19 children, two teachers tragically, horribly because of the inaction of the law enforcement community of Uvalde, said Diana Olvedo-Karau, 63, of Uvalde.

The failure of police that day, she continued, is completely unacceptable. That is why we keep coming back meeting after meeting after meeting, and we keep asking the same question because we have yet  almost three months later  to hear any answers or to see any accountability from anybody at any level, from law enforcement officers to campus staff to central office and beyond.

With her daughter Mehle, 9, standing at her side, Tina Quintanilla-Taylor, 41, said, I will be at every one of these meeting saying, Do better.

Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

Quintanilla-Taylor, a University of Texas at San Antonio doctoral student whose daughter was at Robb Elementary the day of the shooting but was uninjured, told the Uvalde City Council last month that families were going to get a million excuses on why we cant answer the questions, why we cant provide this, why we cant provide that.

Mondays meeting agenda did not include a hearing or executive session regarding Arredondo, who was suspended as the districts chief days after the shooting and who Harrell has recommended be fired. Two previous hearing dates were postponed at the request of Arredondos lawyer, the most recent on Friday.

The meeting at John H. Harrell Auditorium was to include information on the steps to improve the safety and security of our campuses, prepare for the social and emotional needs of our staff and students, prepare for the educational needs of our students, and prepare facilities for the changes in student campus attendance, the district said Friday.

The district posted a video of the superintendent giving updates on security, including installation of tall fencing around Uvalde schools, but he did not mention the latest personnel changes.

Some in the crowd did. Others raised specific questions about efforts to tighten security in time for the new academic year, which starts in a month.

Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

I listened to them, I took into consideration what they were saying because God knows we will continue to be active in building confidence back in, Harrell said after the meeting. Weve got to listen to them and make those changes.

Were going to have to work together, and not just one person but all of us, he added.

The shooting was the second-worst at a school in U.S. history and the deadliest of its kind in a decade.

The House committees report criticized security at the school before and during the shooting. But Gutierrez disputed its findings that a culture of complacency had taken root at the school. She said the lock on the door to the fourth-grade classroom where the shooting happened was working when a custodian checked it the night before.

The report found the most fault with a sluggish response to the shooting by local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. Police took more than an hour to enter the classroom and kill Ramos as parents outside the school begged them to act.

Surveillance footage of officers in body armor who milled in the hallway while Ramos continued shooting sparked outrage from families of victims and the public.

Calls for Arredondos firing began shortly after the tragedy, when Steve McCraw, director of the Texas Department of Public Safety, singled him out for blame. But the House panels report criticized the on-scene leadership of virtually every law enforcement agency that responded.

Arredondo resigned from the Uvalde City Council under intense community pressure; he had been elected several weeks before the massacre.

Staff writer Guillermo Contreras contributed to this report.

sigc@express-news.net
From its pictures online, Timber Ridge Apartments looks like so many Houston-area complexes. A collection of two-story buildings with outdoor staircases and a sparkling blue swimming pool. Residents, however, tell a different story.

Rats. Roaches. Mold. Trash piling up. Mail delivery service stopped. Gunshots.

Its scary back here. No security, wrote resident Ariane Hubbard in an online review a month ago.

Hubbard has lived in the complex for roughly one year and shes fed up with the flagrant violations. One day, her patio window was even shot through. My son was sleeping on the sofa when this happened, she told City Council when she spoke on July 26 with a handful of other residents and advocates with the Texas Organizing Project. Problems at Timber Ridge have escalated in the past year, according to residents, as management repeatedly changed hands and the conditions deteriorated.

How much for a slice of this paradise? $1,165 for a three-bedroom, two-bath that is really more of a one-bath since the other is out of order, according to Jenny Robles who shared her rent information with the council in Spanish through an interpreter.

The response from the mayor and several council members was robust. Some council members expressed shock. Mayor Sylvester Turner reassured residents he was aware of the problem and acting on it. Several council members listed a litany of resources available to the tenants: 311, public works, solid waste, the police department, the health department and other associations.

The mayor even sent a legal team the next day and held a press conference later that week announcing the creation of a strike force that could address similar issues in other apartment complexes across Houston.

A strike force would certainly have its hands full.

Timber Ridge might seem extreme but there are many renters who can relate.

Houstons rental market includes everything from luxury towers to rat-infested last resorts. Its part of the fine print accompanying Houstons affordability: a poorly regulated market with little enforcement for safety and health violations and little support for tenants that leaves too many at the mercy of unresponsive landlords.

The city boomed at a time with relatively lax regulations, crossing the million-person mark between 1960 and 1970. Today, roughly 40 percent of apartment buildings were built between 1960 and 1979. Many of these are concentrated in communities with high percentages of Black and Hispanic residents. Theyve aged and weathered storms including Hurricane Harvey, whose molding fingerprints can still be found across Houston five years on.

Many cities deal with old housing stock and even inclement weather but Houstons response has been particularly under-powered. A 2018 report from the University of Texas at Austin School of Law went so far as to say that, after decades of weak building standards and feeble code enforcement, Houston is now in the midst of a dangerous apartment epidemic. At the time of the report, the city only had two health inspectors dedicated to apartment safety and just shy of a third of apartments were operating without a certificate of occupancy.

Unfortunately, not enough has changed since then.

Although not for lack of trying.

Council Member Letitia Plummer had high hopes for her apartment inspection reform initiative, informed, in part, by the 2018 report. As a dentist, when she looked around at Houstons housing landscape and the way crime, in particular, flourished where housing conditions didnt, she saw a desperate need for prevention. The effort to get an ordinance passed stalled last year but she was able to get an additional 8 inspectors for the city.

Only problem? They dont yet have a home in a specific city department and so, Plummer explained, they arent actually out on the streets inspecting yet.

Indeed, the range of departments that touch code enforcement and habitability, including the health department, the housing department, the police and fire departments and public works ends up creating an opaque, dispersed system that many renters are not prepared to navigate. Meanwhile, tenants say they face retaliation if they do complain.

Thats part of what Plummer is hoping to address with her educational materials aimed at both landlords and tenants to help familiarize them with their respective responsibilities under the state code. Tenants, for example, are expected to follow a multi-step complaint process that includes 311 and certified mail when they want something fixed.

But she recognizes, as the rest of city council should by now, that addressing the concerns of people subjected to unsafe living conditions like those at Timber Ridge requires a more systematic solution than a strike force.

A strike force is great, Plummer told the editorial board, but if you have no enforcement, no accountability and nobody understands the rules then what is a strike force going to do? She estimates there are some 2,500 apartment complexes like Timber Ridge in need of inspections and updates.

In Houston, it takes several years longer than other cities to conduct regular inspections of its apartments, according to the UT report. Sometimes when apartment complexes were inspected, the report noted, there were discrepancies between what tenants complained about to 311 and what the inspectors seemed to see when they gave the complexes passing grades.

That points to yet another possible weak point, in Plummers view: the state standards are just too low. Shes hoping to work with state lawmakers to consider changes to the code.

In the meantime, however, her inspection reform could make a huge impact on the ground. Just as enticing: the majority of it would be funded through a small fee collected annually from certain landlords with repeat offenses. In discussions last October, the Houston Apartment Association expressed concerns about the fee, saying efforts should focus instead on improving communication around inspections.

We think theres room for productive compromise. For landlords making a healthy profit off of untenable living conditions, a fee seems more than justified. If there are landlords charging truly affordable rates, trying their best to manage an aging building, that might warrant a different response. And why not a registry to help renters see the difference and maybe even showcase an existing but hard-to-find online record of an effort from the police to recognize so-called Blue Star apartments where landlords adopt certain security measures.

The city gave Timber Ridge management a 30-day warning, threatening legal action. It shouldnt take a trip to City Hall for people to secure basic livable conditions.

We have the data. We have a proposal on the table. But most importantly, we have too many families living in dangerous conditions to continue to punt this issue. Houston has ridden its reputation of livability into decades of growth. Mayor and council, its time to make good on it for the people left behind.
A video of a North Carolina beach house being dismembered by a voracious ocean was a viral hit this spring. But it wont be long before the novelty wears off. As sea level rises and storm surges grow more intense, beach towns on every coast of the United States will soon be sacrificing more real estate to Poseidon. A 2018 study by the Union of Concerned Scientists found that more than 300,000 coastal homes, currently worth well over $100 billion, are at risk of chronic inundation by 2045.

The matter of large swaths of deluxe real estate erected in harms way is not new. But as extreme weather events compound, the obvious perils of waterfront living are growing both more obvious and more perilous. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration cited 20 different billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in 2021. The analytics firm CoreLogic counts more than 7.5 million homes with direct or indirect coastal exposure and subsequent risk from coastal storm surge and damage from hurricanes.

In the past half-century, American beach towns shucked the bohemians and the beachcombers, the drifters and the sun worshipers. The family that was once affluent enough to own a seaside cottage has grown up, grown very rich and moved into a turreted fantasy with commodified sea views. A few years ago, I asked an old-timer at the Jersey Shore why her town was bursting with people but the beach was strangely uncrowded. She told me that the new rich spend much less time by the waters edge. Its all about the houses, she said.

Indeed, it is. Barrier islands in Florida, North Carolina and New Jersey are situated a few feet above sea level. In many places, including the Jersey Shore and the Texas Gulf Coast, the land is simultaneously sinking as the water rises. Sanibel Island in Florida, a multi-billion-dollar habitat for retired C.E.O.s, may be in its final decades before the Gulf of Mexico permanently moves in. The fabulous town of East Hampton on Long Island issued a report in April warning that on its current trajectory, the town will evolve into a series of islands over the next half-century. California beach towns from Del Mar in the south to Stinson Beach in the north are reckoning with an ocean poised to submerge them.

Beach towns have long kept their beaches plump by dredging sand offshore and pumping it onto eroded shorelines. Some $7 billion worth of beach replenishment programs, most under the auspices of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, have added sand and bolstered property values in some of the most exclusive havens in the United States. Federal taxpayers typically pick up two-thirds of the tab.

Beach towns on the Pacific and Gulf coasts have spent millions tapping offshore reserves, but the Eastern Seaboard has been the prime beneficiary of dredging. The Army Corps has been engineering beaches in Cape May, New Jersey, for a century. Palm Beach County, in Florida, has had its beaches replenished more than 70 times. Many beach towns receive publicly financed sand and then turn around and charge the public to sit on it.

Yet even the most highly subsidized towns cant replenish a beach thats underwater. In a land where the wealthy have succeeded in privatizing accretion and socializing erosion, what will happen when rising sea levels, combined with more violent storm surges, overwhelm beach real estate? As the water rises, private insurance is poised to grow increasingly elusive. Federal flood insurance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency is capped at $250,000 for homes, not even one-tenth of the value of many houses in beach communities. With the federal insurance program billions in debt, FEMA is ready to abandon the most high-risk properties  if only Congress would let it.

Environmentalists and scientists have long called for managed retreat from shrinking coasts. But in politically fractured America, who could possibly manage such a retreat, and who would pay for it?

In New Zealand, an analysis of coastal erosion along Hawkes Bay, an area known for both beaches and vineyards, estimates that a gradual planned retreat of fewer than 1,000 properties over the rest of this century would cost more than $1 billion (or two billion NZD). The consultants who produced the analysis wisely ducked the question of who would come up with that sum.

If youve paid attention to American politics, however, you might have some clues about who will likely end up holding the bag here. Consider the Army Corps of Engineers proposal for Galveston Bay in Texas. Sea rise and aggressive surge threaten oil, gas and petrochemical facilities around Houston, which in turn threaten the entire region with toxins in the event of a major storm. So the Army Corps has proposed a massive barrier often referred to as the Ike Dike across Galveston Bay along with other coastal fortifications. Two-thirds of the total cost, currently projected at more than $30 billion, would be borne by federal taxpayers, with about a third covered by state and local taxpayers. The oil and gas industry, the folks who helped supercharge the seas while flashing some truly impressive profits along the way, would owe nothing.

You can readily apply this model to the beach. The seas coming rampages will no doubt be portrayed as acts of God. Aside from a half-century of increasingly frantic cries from climate scientists, there will have been practically no warning. (In Virginia Beach, where the evangelical businessman Pat Robertson built his empire, Gods wrath will no doubt be attributed to the sinfulness of political opponents rather than the depredations of carbon.) With their beachfront estates under assault, our nations soggy millionaires will seek relief. Which politicians, many of whom use their donors elegant summer homes as fund-raising venues, will deny them?

The lords of the beachfront were late to the coastal real estate game. The beach was initially deemed the most useless, undesirable space on the North American continent. (Imagine rushing past the Hamptons and Marthas Vineyard in your haste to stake a land claim in Ohio.)

The wealthy eventually realized their error. They put property markers on perpetually shifting sand, built expensive homes and called in the army to keep their beaches from drifting away. Its hard to see how, exactly, they will hold onto much of this sea-level paradise in the face of rising waters and carbon-charged super storms. But its not hard to guess who will end up covering their losses.

Francis Wilkinson is a columnist at Bloomberg. This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
Texas Republicans have exploded with outrage at Mondays news that the FBI searched the Mar-a-Lago home of former President Donald Trump.

Agents were looking for classified documents that the former president is accused of unlawfully removing from the White House, Trumps son said in a Fox News interview. The former president wrote online that agents broke into his safe.

This is next-level Nixonian. Never before has the country seen an administration go to such extent to use the levers of government to target a former president and political rival, Gov. Greg Abbott wrote on Twitter. This weaponizes power to squelch dissent. Such abuses must have limits.

TEXAS TAKE: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox

Abbott was one of many Texas lawmakers who quickly branded the raid as political and claimed President Joe Biden is attempting to use police powers to tarnish a political rival. For example: U.S. Rep. Michael Cloud, from Corpus Christi, said Biden has politicized the justice department in other ways, such as investigating extremism at local school board meetings, declining to prosecute abortion activists and ignoring accusations against his son, Hunter Biden.

Theyre fully committed to weaponizing the DOJ to try anything to stop Donald Trump because they know he will hold them accountable, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton wrote. Bidens decision to wield the FBI against Trump is a brazen & ill-fated attempt to distract from his own failures.

While Democratic lawmakers in Texas said little about the Trump case on Tuesday, their followers questioned the sincerity of Republican outrage, pointing years of lock her up chants at Trump rallies that targeted his former opponent, Hillary Clinton. Clinton was investigated by the FBI for using her personal email account to handle classified information. She was never charged and ultimately a State Department probe found that while information had been improperly handled, it had not been done in a criminal manner.

Many Democrats also pointed out that the director of the FBI is Christopher Wray, appointed by Trump in 2017.

There are several concurrent federal and state investigations into Trump. State investigations include into his business practices in New York and alleged efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election in Georgia. Federal probes include one into his role in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol, and a separate inquiry that originated with the National Archives, which went to the Department of Justice after Trump delayed returning 15 boxes of presidential records, including classified material.

The National Archives reported in February that it had recovered 15 boxes of records.

Little information is available about the focus of Mondays raid. A federal judge based in Florida approved the FBI search. Senior White House officials told national reporters that they did not have foreknowledge of it.

Said Sen. Ted Cruz, on Twitter: The FBI raiding Donald Trump is unprecedented. It is corrupt & an abuse of power. What Nixon tried to do, Biden has now implemented: The Biden Admin has fully weaponized DOJ & FBI to target their political enemies. Cruz called for congressional investigations and said Biden is behaving like a tin-pot dictator.

Former Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who served in Trumps cabinet, also warned federal officials on Twitter: The FBI better have had a really good reason to search Trumps property. If they do not actually have the goods, this will make a political system already suffering stress much more unstable and should be alarming to anybody  no matter their personal feelings towards #Trump.

Although Democrats currently hold a narrow majority in the U.S. House, Republicans see an advantage in national polling and appear to be in a strong position to retake the majority.

Rep. Kevin McCarthy, the GOP leader in the House, wrote if that does happen, he intends to pursue immediate oversight of (the Department of Justice), follow the facts, and leave no stone unturned.

Attorney General Garland, preserve your documents and clear your calendar.

edward.mckinley@chron.com
WFO BURLINGTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

HEAT ADVISORY

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE

National Weather Service Burlington VT

358 PM EDT Mon Aug 8 2022

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Heat index values from 94 to 99 expected.

* WHERE...In New York, Eastern Essex County. In Vermont, Western

Addison, Western Rutland and Eastern Windsor Counties.

* WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT this evening.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat

illnesses to occur. The highest heat index values will occur

through 600 pm.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out

of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young

children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles

under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When

possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or

evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat

stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when

possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational

Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent

rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone

overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
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By Bernard Rowan





The "era of autocracy" is a depressing name for the 21st century. One of its features is strategic gambits by global powers in pursuit of their interests, passions, and opinions. These gambits reflect the actions of autocratic nations and those committed to freedom. They also reflect those of anti-status quo powers and those in favor of the present international order, including its use of capitalism and free markets.



Free markets need free navigation of airspace, waterways, space, cybernetworks, and land routes. The sites for competition and conflict have increased. The United States, China, Russia, the European Union and Great Britain, and the two Koreas (among many others) engage in these gambits. The international order splits. Its new bipolarity hasn't fully formed. Gambits, like a chess tournament's plays, abound and multiply.



Commentary spirals about U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan. It was an unnecessary and inflammatory move. Putting a thumb in the eye of Xi Jinping and company in the run-up to his third term as China's leader. This gambit raised tensions unnecessarily.



The Chinese gambit to rattle their sabers aplenty didn't matter. More troubling is the window opened to condition China's increased presence in the Taiwan Strait and Taiwanese airspace. The chances of miscalculations increase. But Pelosi is there and gone. Time to move on. The result, a more destabilized Taiwan Strait, is a loss.



Less rousing is noise over the continuing meetings and communications of Xi Jinping with Vladimir Putin, not to mention all that buying of oil. The Alliance for Freedom feigns to take this all on the chin, hoping to write it off. The war on Ukraine symbolizes how the strategic gambits of military great powers wreak havoc.



It also shows the growing bipolarity and splitting of the international order for trade and commerce. When competition turns to violence, security concerns outpace trade and peaceful exchanges. Countervalue war, propaganda games, war atrocities, and the fallout for alliance partners grow. Suffering economic indices and energy lines are considerable.



Nonetheless, many were glad to see another gambit, namely South Korea's agreement to supply Poland with tanks and howitzers. Putin doesn't care that he's single-handedly nudging the world to more militarization and insecurity. However, Poland should have a robust defense capacity. What will be the gambits for Moldova and other countries on the fringe of Putin's folly?



Similarly, North Korea continues her gambits to use nuclear weapons as a shield to prop up the Kim dynasty in its third evolution. Iran and China provide this autocratic disciple nation with the makings for weapons of mass destruction and associated potentials. And while the conventional weapons threat from Pyongyang deserves even greater attention, the superpower constellations of our world have set the cause of peace back decades yet again.



While it complicates matters, in the present environment the Alliance for Freedom needs a deep bench. Organski and Kugler calculate power as population times GNP, and that means freedom needs friends. Freedom has friends, but its alliance gambit must entail the trade and sharing of means of defense that shore up and extend alliances. Relying on the center of the wheel is inadequate today. Coordination among multiple allies is harder. It's also prone to tactics of "divide and conquer" by autocrats.



Another gambit is the growing use of cyberthreats and cyberattacks. These newer means of violence, intimidation, and power moves by global powers and pretenders increase. With satellite wars in the outer atmosphere, and hypersonic missile technology, the instruments of policy and security continue to multiply. The theaters for engagement, defense, and war do so too.



I'm sorry, but these many strategic gambits will continue. How dissatisfying! I've only named a few of countless possibilities. The world nowadays is less safe than it used to be. What of progress toward the day of enduring peace? We should remain committed, if not for our shame and guilt, then for those to whom we remain responsible, looking for a better era to come.





Bernard Rowan (browan10@yahoo.com) is associate provost for contract administration and professor of political science at Chicago State University, a past fellow of the Korea Foundation and former visiting professor at Hanyang University. He is also a member of the 2022 class of the Becoming a Provost Academy with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.




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'Flash' Actor Charged With Stealing Neighbor's Booze

STAMFORD, Vt.  "Flash" actor Ezra Miller is being charged with burglary after allegedly breaking into a neighbor's home and stealing alcohol.

According to State Police, the theft of several bottles of alcohol was reported on May 1 by Isaac Winokur of County Road. The break-in occurred when the homeowners weren't there.

As a result of an investigation that included surveillance videos and statements, State Police say they had probable cause to charge the 29-year-old Miller with felony burglary of an unoccupied building.

Miller could not be located at the time but was found by police on Sunday at about 11:30 p.m. and issued a summons to appear in Vermont Superior Court in Bennington on Sept. 26. The actor had reportedly been doing reshoots for the upcoming $200 million "The Flash" film, still set to be released next year.

The State Police say they coordinated on this investigation with the Bennington County State's Attorney's Office.

According to Rolling Stone , State Police had been at Miller's home twice before over the weekend in an attempt to contact a woman reportedly staying there with her three children and were there again on Tuesday night.

The actor purchased a home in Stamford several years ago.

The Department of Children and Families has become involved because of claims of unattended firearms in the home and that the 1-year-old child had put a bullet in her mouth. The other children are ages 4 and 5 and Miller has said he was helping the mother escape an abusive spouse in Hawaii. Rolling Stone says DCF is seeking to take custody of the children. According to the order, the news site says Miller told police the woman and her children had not been there for two months but she had an active social media account that showed she was there until the account went dark mid-July.

The 29-year-old Miller catapulted to prominence after starring in the latest Harry Potter film series "Fantastic Beasts" and as the speedy hero Flash in "Batman v Superman" and "Justice League."

But this charge is the latest in a series of run-ins with the law. Over the past year year, Miller has had several tussles with the law, including arrests in Hawaii for assault, disorderly conduct and harassment. Two families have filed protective orders against them related to their children.

Editor's note: this article has been updated on Aug. 11 with the information about DCF.
Moderator Dan Valenti asked the candidates questions and allowed them to ask each other questions without time limits on answers.

Sheriff Candidates Discuss Incarcerated Women, Operations in Debate

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  The two candidates for Berkshire County sheriff, incumbent Thomas Bowler and challenger Alf Barbalunga, questioned each other on incarcerated women, operations and more in a debate on Monday.

Moderator Daniel Valenti, who sponsored the debate, asked the candidates questions and allowed them to ask each other questions without a time limit on answers in the candidates' second forum. Bowler and Barbalunga both took part in July in a forum held by the Berkshire County NAACP, the League of Women Voters, and the ACLU of Massachusetts.

Bowler, who has held the position since 2010, said his experience in public safety sets him apart.

"There's nobody in this room was more about public safety than I," he said. "I've spent 37 years in public safety. And we've forged, when it comes to public safety, a tremendous amount of partnerships and community partnerships throughout the county."

Barbalunga said those looking for focus on fiscal stewardship, public safety and diversity should vote for him. He explained that being a sheriff has always been his dream career.

"I don't want to be a senator. I don't want to be the chief of police. I don't want to be president of the U.S.; I wanted to be sheriff," he said. "So every step of this way. Doing my good work is setting me up for this run. ... I've done the work. I worked for three different sheriffs in five facilities across the state."

Bowler asked Barbalunga about the incarcerated women of Berkshire County who are currently sent to the Western Massachusetts Regional Women's Correctional Center in Chicopee. Barbalunga criticized the decision to move the inmates and said the process of moving them back would begin his first day in office.

"[There was] no thought process to families traveling down there whatsoever; three hours round-trip for sure, no thought process to different types of on-boarding and getting through to visit," he said.

Bowler responded, saying the inmates in Chicopee are getting a level of treatment that they cannot get in the Berkshire County. He cited long-term residential care as an example.

"The services that they provide down there and the opportunity those individuals have is much greater than it would be back here," he said.

Barbalunga also criticized Bowler's management during his tenure and the lack of diversity on his executive staff. He said he disagreed with Bowler's COVID-19 response and his decision to shut down several operations during the pandemic.

"You don't shut down operations. You don't shut down GEDs. You don't shut down therapy. You don't shut down volunteers coming in; that's your lifeblood of the community, and say, 'Hey, you can't come in anymore,'" he said.

Bowler said he made the decision to shut down operations to protect inmates and staff from getting sick.

"We shut down the visitations, we shut down people coming in to protect people from getting COVID. We had to protect our staff, our inmates, and each and all their family," he said.

When asked by Valenti who he supported in the district attorney election, Bowler said he supports Timothy Shugrue but would still support incumbent Andrea Harrington if re-elected. Barbalunga declined to say who he planned to vote for but said he has connections to both candidates and would support either in office.
Medical Matters Weekly Welcomes Social Worker Kris Perry

BENNINGTON, Vt.  Kris Perry, a social worker, child advocate and the director of the Institute of Digital Media and Child Development is the next guest on Medical Matters Weekly at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 17.

Perry holds a bachelors in sociology and psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and a masters in social work from San Francisco State University. She made her career as a child advocate within several organizations starting with the Alameda County Social Services Agency, where she worked in child protective services. She pivoted to leading systems change as executive director of First Five San Mateo and later as executive director of First Five in California and nationally in Washington, D.C. She served as president of Save the Children Action Network.

Perry returned to California to serve as senior advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom and as Deputy Secretary of California Health and Human Services Agency. There she led the development of the California Master Plan for Early Learning and Care and was instrumental in the expansion of access to high-quality early childhood programs. In her current role as director of the Institute of Digital Media and Child Development, she works to fund and disseminate scientific research focused on the impact of digital media on child development and the translation of those findings into programs and policies that promote child wellness.

The show is produced by Southwestern Vermont Health Care (SVHC) with cooperation from Catamount Access Television (CAT-TV). Viewers can view on facebook.com/svmedicalcenter and facebook.com/CATTVBennington. The show is also available to view or download as a podcast on svhealthcare.org/ medicalmatters.

Medical Matters Weekly addresses all aspects of creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for all, including food and nutrition, housing, diversity and inclusion, groundbreaking medical care, exercise, mental health, the environment, research, and government. The show is broadcast on Facebook Live, YouTube, and all podcast platforms.

After the program, the video is available on area public access television stations CAT-TV (Comcast channel 1075) and GNAT-TV's (Comcast channel 1074), as well as on public access stations throughout the United States.




iciHaiti - Petit-Goave : Arrest of a member of the 5 seconds gang





Saturday August 6, 2022, Mackenson Leblanc (24 years old) alias "Vilane", member of the Gang of Village de Dieu "5 seconds" was arrested in Delattes, 7th communal section of Petit-Goave by the Coordinators of CASEC Petion and Ti Benice then handed to the agents of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) of the 6th Communal Section



Mackenson had come to take refuge in Delattes where he is from. Let's recall that his father known as "Si yo vle" was killed in Village de Dieu.



IH/ iciHaiti / Guyto Mathieu (Petit-Goave correspondent)




















By Cho Hee-kyoung





Korea is one of the few countries among the developed democracies where defamation is still prosecuted as a crime. Most member states of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) long ago decriminalized defamation and treat it only as a civil wrong to be resolved between two private parties. The United Nations Commission on Human Rights ruled in 2012 that criminal defamation is a violation of freedom of expression and is inconsistent with Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.



On top of criminalizing defamation, Korean defamation law is also unusual in that Korea is one of a handful of countries around the world where telling the truth can constitute defamation. In most other jurisdictions, the definition of defamation necessarily requires the communication of a false statement.



If what is alleged to be defamatory is in fact true, then this would constitute an absolute defense against defamation. Not so in Korea; under Korean law, even a true statement can be defamatory. This situation means that there is inevitably a chilling effect on what would otherwise be a valid criticism if it hurts the reputation of someone, even if that reputation is built on a falsehood.



The number of criminal complaints filed for defamation in Korea has increased dramatically in the last decade. Between 2010 and 2020, the number of cases filed for criminal defamation in Korea more than doubled from 14,912 cases to 35,518 cases, according to the office of the Rep. Park Ju-min of the opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK). However, the number of cases that were actually prosecuted has remained fairly steady at an average of around 11,000 cases (a figure that includes insult as well as defamation cases), which indicates that most criminal defamation cases that are brought do not merit prosecution.



Egregious examples abound of criminal defamation being misused to silence legitimate criticism. One latest example involves Rep. Ahn Cheol-soo of the ruling People Power Party (PPP) on whose behalf the conservative party has filed a complaint against an economist, Lee Sang-min, for criminal defamation over an esoteric concept of debt known as "D4." The whole thing arose out of what would otherwise have been a somewhat tedious but necessary debate about the need for pension reform.



One highlight during the uninspiring television debates of presidential candidates earlier this year was when the then-presidential candidate Ahn managed to secure pledges from all three other main candidates to reform the pension system. In an earlier appearance on a popular social media channel for the economy, Ahn had tried to explain why pension reform is terribly urgent by citing the figure of 17 quadrillion (10 to the power of 16) won ($1.3 trillion) in debt that the pension fund will incur by 2088 unless there is drastic reform of the system.



He also pointed out that Korea currently has more public sector debt than is usually acknowledged because of the pension liability, D4, is excluded from the existing public sector debt figures of D1, D2 and D3, and that we were in worse fiscal condition than admitted by the Moon Jae-in administration at the time.



Money, debt, assets and so on, are words that have a simple, straightforward meaning for non-economists. But in the hands of economists, they transform into something much more complicated. For example, money is not just money but there are various categories including M0, M1 and M2. M0 equals coin and paper currency and central bank reserves. M1 covers M0 plus demand deposits (i.e., money in checking accounts) and travelers' checks. M2 covers M1 plus savings deposits and money market shares.



In a similar way, the Korean Ministry of Economy and Finance uses the concepts of D1, D2 and D3 to categorize debt, whereas the International Monetary Fund uses the concepts of D1, D2, D3 and D4. But because the method of calculation is different, the respective D1 to D3 figures from the Korean ministry and IMF cannot be compared on a like-for-like basis. For our purposes, what is relevant is that the IMF does not even calculate the D4 number for Korea because the Korean government does not report all the relevant government employment-related pension liabilities necessary to calculate D4.



Lee, an economist from the Fiscal Research Institute, pointed out a couple of factual errors in Ahn's premises. First, the figure of 17 quadrillion won is incorrect because it had not been discounted to its present value. We know the concept of present discounted value from the inverse example of the Japanese pension fund paying the Korean victims of wartime slave labor 100 yen as the amount of pension due to them 77 years ago. Calculated according to present value, 100 yen should be more like 1 million yen. In the same way, any figure representing a value in the future has to be discounted back to represent the equivalent value in the present day.



Second, Lee pointed out that Ahn was using the concept of D4 in an inaccurate way. Ahn was using D4 in a way that made it seem as if D4 was a figure used by the Korean government, when it was not the case and he was even mixing up what D4 actually represents in a way that is different than how the figure is calculated by the IMF. Ahn seemed simply to ignore the fact that the IMF does not in fact calculate D4 for Korea because of the lack of data.



What Ahn did was laudable. He tried to give everyone a wake-up call about the dangerous state our national pension system is in and urged for reform. But in the process he seems to have made some sleights of hand with numbers and references that enormously exaggerated our public sector debt. The intention is understandable but for a public discourse on such an important topic, politicians should be prepared to listen to criticisms.



The conservative party needs to realize that it is not the criticism that hurts their politicians' reputation but rather, the attempt to shut down public discussion on thorny issues by bringing criminal complaints against those who make even constructive criticism.





Cho Hee-kyoung (hongikmail@gmail.com) is a professor at Hongik University College of Law.






By Kim Jae-heun



Former Starbucks Korea CEO Lee Seok-koo, who led the prosperous coffee shop franchise in Korea for 11 years until 2019, is reviving Shinsegae International's lifestyle brand, JAJU.





Shinsegae International co-CEO Lee Seok-koo / Korea Times file
Google search is a remarkable thing, and not just because it is able to find what you're looking for among billions of webpages. I think you could argue that the fact it is able to figure out what we're looking for, even when we're not great at asking, is a feat on its own.

One of the first things that happen when you type a word or phrase into Google Search is that it tries to figure out what you mean. Most of the time, that's more useful than simply trying to find the exact words.

For example, if you type in "ice cream chocolate Philadelphia" there probably aren't very many websites with that exact phrase. Besides, you're not really looking for that phrase, you're looking for the best chocolate ice cream in Philadelphia, so that's what Google is going to try to show you.

Sometimes, however, you really do want to find the exact words or phrase you type into the search box. Or you might type words into Google and it thinks you mean something entirely different. It is essentially guessing at what you mean, even if it's a very educated guess.

In that case, power users know you can use quotation marks around your search phrase and it will show you exact matches. It's one of Google's most useful--if underused--features.

For example, if you're trying to find out who said a particular line in your favorite movie, you can type it in with quotes and Google will show you websites with that exact line. Or maybe you're looking for sites that reference a specific term. Basically, you want Google to skip the step where it tries to figure out what you really want, and just show you exact results.

The problem is, when Google shows search results--even when you use quotes--it gives you an overall description of a page below the links on the search results page. The point is to give you more context about a webpage than you get from just the title. If you're looking for an exact term, however, a summary of the page is often less important than where the actual words are.

Fortunately, Google is rolling out an update that shows you context for where quoted search terms appear on a site. Here's how the company explained the change in a recent blog post:

The snippets we display for search results (meaning the text you see describing web content) will be formed around where a quoted word or phrase occurs in a web document. That means you can more easily identify where to find them after you click the link and visit the content. On desktop, we'll also bold the quoted material ... We've heard feedback that people doing quoted searches value seeing where the quoted material occurs on a page, rather than an overall description of the page. Our improvement is designed to help address this.

There are a few caveats. As Google points out, sometimes the words or phrase you search for doesn't appear in the body of a website. Sometimes it appears in metadata, or in the alt text for an image, which helps screen readers identify an image for visually impaired individuals. Google can see that text, even though it doesn't actually appear on the website page you see.

In that case, Google suggests using Command--F to search the page. You can also use tools like "developer mode" to search all of the text Google is able to see.

The good news is, for most searches, Google is actually pretty good at figuring out what you're looking for and finding it. There's a reason that using quotes is a pro move--it's not something most people need to do very often.

In fact, the best thing you can do to increase the chances Google will show you the information you're looking for is to type in more words. Seriously. You can ask Google complete questions and it will usually find the answer.
When you're a busy entrepreneur, it's easy to convince yourself you need to just push through burnout. With people relying on you and endless problems to solve, many business owners feel like they don't have the time or space to take a step back and deal with their mounting stress and exhaustion. Sure, a long vacation or a less intense schedule would be nice, but it will have to wait until some magically less stressful future time.

If this sounds familiar, there's a bunch of brain research I want to show you.

A portrait of the burned-out brain

We tend to think of burnout as an emotional or mental condition, and it certainly does have emotional and mental effects. But everything you feel or think arises from your brain, so mood swings, foggy thinking, or an extra quick temper are all reflected in the physical functioning of the brain somewhere. Research shows that, when it comes to burnout, those brain changes are anything but minor.

Recent research out of Sweden compared 40 study subjects who all had worked more than 60 hours a week for multiple years and received a formal diagnosis of burnout with a matched control group of people with the same demographic profile who weren't suffering from burnout.

Tests revealed that the burned-out volunteers were much worse at controlling or suppressing negative emotions. That was no surprise. Overreacting and a tendency toward negativity are classic symptoms of burnout. What may be more surprising is what the researchers observed when they conducted brain scans of the two groups.

"The two groups showed key differences in the amygdala -- a brain structure that is critical in emotional reactions including fear and aggression. Participants in the burnout group had relatively enlarged amygdalae, and also appeared to have significantly weaker connections between the amygdala and brain areas linked to emotional distress, specifically the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). The more stressed an individual reported feeling, the weaker the connectivity between these brain regions appeared on the R-fMRI," reports the Association for Psychological Science.

The burnout sufferers also had weaker connections between the amygdala and the medial prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain involved in executive function or the ability to stifle impulses, make long-term plans, and control our behavior in order to carry them out.

Translated into everyday language that means that the amygdala, which works kind of like your brain's alarm system responsible for signaling when there's something in your environment you need to be upset about, is overactive. Meanwhile, the systems meant to counteract the amygdala with logic, perspective, and coping mechanisms are weakened. It's as if an emergency siren keeps blaring for every little thing and the off switch is sticky.

Unsurprisingly, that's not just deeply unpleasant but bad for performance. A separate research review that looked at 15 high-quality studies on the cognitive effects of burnout found "executive attentional and memory systems appear to suffer in association with burnout, and cognitive functioning is impaired in burned-out individuals," APS also notes. Burnout officially does a number on your brain.

Can your brain recover from burnout?

That should serve as a warning to any wildly overworked professional out there who is considering pushing through their mounting burnout just a little bit longer. White knuckling your burnout if doing real damage to your brain.

And what if it's a little late for that advice and your burnout is already well advanced? (Surveys show this applies to an incredible number of people after more than two years of pandemic chaos.) "Can you reverse these changes in the brain once they occur? Studies in mice show it's possible, and a 2018 study in people found cognitive behavioral therapy for burnout reduced the size of the amygdala and returned the prefrontal cortex to pre-stress levels," reports CNN.

Other activities beside therapy can help your brain recover too. Yale psychiatry professor Mark Rego has "suggested doing hands-on activities, such as arts and cooking, and indulging the senses -- especially in nature -- and talking to people often" to speed recovery. He also recommends "quieting the mind, whether through sports, long walks, or yoga."
India is among the worlds fastest growing aviation markets but its domestic industry is confronting multiple challenges in the near term. The growth of the industry not only represents opportunities for airlines, but for a whole range of companies serving the sector, including those involved in the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircrafts.

India is the worlds fourth largest aviation market, behind the US, China, and the UK. Its a nation of 1.3 billion people, with a growing middle class and an increasing need to enhance regional interconnectivity between states and cities while expanding global links.

Despite the pandemic slowing demand for air travel, particularly in East Asia, Indias civil aviation industry has emerged as one of the fastest growing indigenous sectors in recent years. In fact, this growth means that India will likely overtake the UK to become the third largest air passenger market by 2024.

India has a very competitive civil aviation sector, with numerous airlines looking to increase their market share ahead of a predicted boom in regional air travel. But there are also opportunities for international growth. In fact, Indian airlines were recently presented with a unique opportunity to enhance international market share as domestically registered airlines still enjoy access to valuable Russian airspace. Airlines from many Western and US-aligned nations have had their rights to access Russian airspace rescinded after condemning Moscows war in Ukraine.

The India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) contends that the aviation industry will contribute nearly US$500 billion to the Indian economy, through travel and tourism, in 2028 alone. Indias growing demand for air travel creates not only opportunities for airlines, but for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations and other contributing sectors.

Market size and growth

The aviation industry is much larger than it may appear on the surface. In 2018, the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) stated that the global air transport sector supports 65.5 million jobs and US$2.7 trillion in global economic activity. Over 10 million people work directly for the industry itself, the organization highlighted.

The group also claims that aviation jobs are, on average, 4.4 times more productive than other jobs in the economy. The industry supports businesses and the development of other sectors such as tourism.

The industry creates millions of jobs on the ground in a variety of interconnected sectors, from air traffic control to airport management and MRO. However, demand for passenger air travel and trade are the key drivers of the industry.

Passenger travel in India

Demand for air travel is growing in India, and there are a few reasons for this beyond its burgeoning population. The nation has a rising working population and widening middle-class demography that is expected to boost demand. In recent years, growth in demand has consistently outpaced the growth in supply, resulting in high utilization. Indias domestic traffic makes up 69 percent of the total airline traffic in South Asia, according to data from PRS Legislative Research.

Delhis Indira Gandhi International Airport is currently the ninth busiest airport in the world, according to OAG data, which uses a metric based on scheduled airline capacity for the month. The countrys other major airports include those in its metropolitan hubs Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Hyderabad.

The number of passengers traveling through Indias largest airports increased substantially prior to the pandemic. Delhi airport saw 48 million passengers in 2016, and this grew to 69 million in 2019. A similar increase can be seen elsewhere in the country, with Kolkata passengers increasing from 12 million in 2016 to 22 million 2020.

Air freight in India

According to ATAG, air travel carried 35 percent of world trade by value (US$6.0 trillion) in 2017, but less than one percent by volume (62 million tons). As Indias economy develops, so does demand for international trade and air freight.

From FY 2016 to FY 22, the volume of India freight traffic increased at a CAGR of 2.52 percent. However, the growth rate in the years leading up to the pandemic was substantially higher. Domestic air freight volumes are still below pre-pandemic levels.

Neither freight or passenger traffic is yet to reach pre-pandemic levels as Covid-19 continues to impact demand, trade, incomes, as well as supply chains across India and around the world.

Investment and supply growth

Airports

Airports are crucial links in the air transport value chain. India envisages the number of operational airports rising to 190-200 by 2040 as aviation demand rises across the country. Figures differ, although it is understood that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) currently manages 137 airports today, while the government contends that only 68 airports have been operationalized for the Regional Connectivity Scheme. New Delhi wants to operationalize 100 airports by 2024 in an effort to augment land and sea infrastructure.

Indias airport capacity is expected to handle one billion trips annually by 2023, according to PRS Legislative Research.

Prior to 2013, AAI was the only major player involved in developing and upgrading airports. However, that has all changed, and there has been increased government and private participation. The Government of India is currently supporting the development of 19 airports, seven of which are through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). The government contends that the Regional Connectivity Scheme seeks to facilitate/stimulate regional air connectivity by making it affordable.

The below table notes some of the top private sector players in airport development in recent years.

Company Investment GMR Group Development of Hyderabad International Airport. Modernization of Delhi International Airport GVK Modernization of Mumbai International Airport Siemens Development of Bengaluru International Airport L&T Development of Navi Mumbai International Airport Adani Development of Ahmedabad and Thiruvananthapuram Airports

The IBEF contends that investment to the tune of INR 420-450 billion (US$5.99-6.41 billion) is expected in Indias airport infrastructure between FY 2018-23, although this figure has likely been lowered due to the pandemic.

Foreign investment in new initiatives, including airlines, is allowed up to 49 percent under the automatic route. Up to 100 percent would be permitted in scheduled air transport service, regional air transport service, and domestic scheduled passenger airline, but government approval is required first.

Airlines

In 2021, Indias domestic airlines had just over 700 planes in service. However, this number is expected to grow in the coming years. In fact, the number of airplanes is expected to reach 1,100 by 2027.

One reason for this is the entry of new players into the market. Akasa Air is one of three new airlines to set up in India over the past decade. The majority of these new airlines have adopted a low-cost approach, hoping to appeal to price-sensitive flyers using low fares and unbundled services. Akasa Air  which was founded by the Indian billionaire Rakesh Jhunjhunwala  flew its first flight service from Mumbai to Ahmedabad on August 7, 2022  and will compete with budget carriers IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoFirst. However, Akasa Airs network strategy intends to connect metro cities with smaller towns across India.

MRO

Indias MRO sector is expected to develop in tandem with the passenger and freight industry. According to the IBEF, the MRO industry is likely to be worth over US$2.4 billion by 2028, up from US$800 million in 2018.

Last year, the government announced a new policy with the aim of attracting MRO investment and eventually making India a global MRO hub. Land allotment for MRO facilities will be leased for 30 years instead of three-five years, as was the case under the previous terms.

Indias share of the US$80 billion global MRO market is only at 2.5 percent at present.

Headwinds

Indias civil aviation sector has seen considerable change in recent years, and the pandemic served only to reduce the addressable market size  although there is clearly a sizeable future market and airlines are keen to enhance their market share as more demand comes online. However, debt and safety challenges are two of the biggest issues facing the sector.

Airlines, notably those with high debt burdens, struggle to maintain the required safety standards. Debt is an issue for Indias airlines with the pandemic causing nearly three years of reduced flying.

In late 2021, the Indian government agreed to clear all of Air Indias debts owed to banks, oil companies, airports, and aircraft lessors by the end of this financial year. This paved the way for the Tata Group to make a winning bid of INR 180 billion to buy Air India, Air India Express, and Air India SATS Airport Services Pvt Ltd. through its subsidiary Talace Private Limited. (Tata Sons is now making moves to integrate Air Asia with Air India. The Tata Group had raised their stake in Air Asia to 83.67 percent in December 2020. The Indian conglomerate also own Vistara Airlines.)

Other airlines in India have not been as fortunate as Air India to have their debts cleared by the government; it now remains to be seen how the airline turns its fortunes around after returning to the Tatas from a beleaguered state stewardship.

Meanwhile, indicative of the state of Indias aviation market, a Times of India article from late July, 2022, claimed that IndiGo was the only financially stable operator of regional flights using turboprops in the country.

Many airlines were already suffering financially before the COVID-19 pandemic struck  the pandemic cost airlines in excess of US$2bn and airports around US$500m according to PRS Legislative Research. Two airlines, Air Odisha Aviation Pvt Ltd and Deccan Charters Pvt Ltd, exited the market in 2020. Air India had reported losses for the past four years, while all other major private airlines in India, including market leaders IndiGo and Gurgaon-based SpiceJet, registered losses in 2018-19.

Some Indian airlines have also suffered from reputational challenges in recent years. Just last month, SpiceJet caused controversy after a number of air safety accidents angered the countrys aviation regulator and damaged customer trust. In early July, it was reported that the airline had recorded eight malfunction incidents in the previous 18 days.

However, Indias air safety record is positive compared to the global average. In 2019, there were just 0.82 accidents per million flights as compared to the global average of 3.02. This represents a considerable improvement from 2014, when there were 2.8 accidents per million flights in India.

But more generally, the reputation of Indias airline industry will be tested as India-based airlines enhance their services to international audiences. After all, air travel passengers are price sensitive to an extent, though this should not come at the cost of safety.
Sailors watch a monitor during the world's first transoceanic voyage of a large merchant ship using Avikus' HiNAS 2.0 autonomous navigation technology, in this file photo. Courtesy of Avikus



By Park Jae-hyuk



Avikus, an HD Hyundai subsidiary specializing in autonomous navigation technologies, has succeeded in commercializing the level 2 self-navigating system for the first time in the world, the company said Tuesday.



It signed contracts on Monday with two Korean shipping companies  SK Shipping and Sinokor Merchant Marine  to supply the HiNAS 2.0 autonomous navigation system in large vessels.



Starting from August of next year, the system will be installed in 23 vessels, which are currently under construction, including container ships and liquefied natural gas carriers.






After Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor, actor-producer Atul Kulkarni who is making his debut as a screenwriter in Laal Singh Chaddha has been getting trolled on social media after his old tweet in which he is asked "and why do you think I'm Hindu" resurfaced.

Kangana Ranaut thinks Aamir Khan has himself started the #boycottLaalSinghChaddha trend in order to promote the movie.

In the midst of the drama, the director of the movie Advait Chandan has claimed that people are getting paid to troll Aamir Khan.

Twitter

Is he talking about Kangana Ranaut? That's what most people think. Here's what he wrote on Instagram.

"I am told there are people being paid to troll Aamir Sir. This is deeply upsetting to hear and it's outright unfair. Why have I been trolling him for free? #PayEveryTroll", he said.

Instagram

Meanwhile, Aamir Khan has recently revealed why he playing the role of a Sikh man in the movie, which is a remake of the Hollywood movie Forrest Gump.

"Atul (Atul Kulkarni) in his adaptation (of Forrest Gump) had already placed him as a Sikh... When we received it as a script, we were already reading a Sikh character. So, it felt very natural to us and organic to us. So, none of us questioned why he was a Sikh.

web screen grab

"But now that I think about it, technically, he could be anyone; he could be South Indian. But I think Atul did that because, in our timeline of recent socio-political history, 198384 was a very key time, a very difficult time, and the Sikh community went through a lot of difficulties at that time," Aamir told journalist Baradwaj Rangan.

Atul Kulkarni, on the other hand, told Times Now that if you will watch the film only then you will know why Aamir Khan's character is Sikh. He said you will definitely get an answer.

It is being said that the movie shows 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots.

YouTube

The 1984 anti-Sikh riots killed more than 3,000 Sikhs in Delhi and about 8,000 people across the entire nation. Also known as 1984 Sikh Massacre, the riots were a series of organised programs by anti-Sikh mobs against the Sikhs community post the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by Sikh bodyguards.



(For more news and updates from the world of celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment, and let us know your thoughts on this story in the comments below.)


Seeing children living on the streets is common (and heartbreaking) - they are mostly unaccompanied while selling everything from pens and tissue boxes to balloons.

All of us have come across these kids, desperately knocking on car windows trying to sell what's at hand hoping to earn a few bucks. Even though they have it tough, they try to find little joys in life. A perfect example of that is this heartwarming video.

Little balloon sellers play with dog

A video is going viral showing two homeless little balloon sellers playing with a dog.

Screengrab/Twitter

In the video, a dog can be seen sitting inside a car. Little balloon sellers, with a broad smile on their faces, can be seen gathered outside the car's window and playing with the dog. The two kids looked visibly happy to be in the company of the dog, who was also seen reciprocating the affection.



As the video progresses, the dog tries to reach out to the boys and extends its paw to play with them. One of the boys also plants a kiss on the dog's cheek. The smiles on their faces told the entire story.

The video was shared on Twitter by IPS officer Dipanshu Kabra on August 9. It has garnered more than 23,000 views. People absolutely loved the interaction between the two kids and the dog.

Right Sir 

Bahut Sunder  Vinay Kumar  (@VinayKu49718745) August 9, 2022

So cute and innocent  Manjula (@GowriManju9845) August 9, 2022

        Prashant Tiwari (@prashant_16009) August 9, 2022

Homeless man celebrates birthday with his dogs

Earlier, a video of a homeless man celebrating his birthday with his dogs went viral. The video went viral on social media and was shot on the streets of Bucaramanga, Colombia.

It was posted on Instagram by user @roteloperiodismo. The homeless man in the video is Choco. He is often seen hanging out with his doggos.

In the video, Choco is seen sitting on the stairs with his friends. Both the canines are wearing party hats. Choco pulls out a birthday cake from a bag, lights candles and then sings the 'Happy Birthday' song. After kissing his friends, he serves them a slice of cake each.

"He is "Choco", a street dweller from #Bucaramanga. He has always been seen accompanied by his furry ones. It is for people like him that we must change this unjust society," the video is captioned.



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A former assistant professor at St. Xavier's University in Kolkata alleges that when a parent complained about her "objectional" Instagram photos. The professor was directed to leave and asked to pay Rs 99 crore in damages to the university for "causing immense and irreparable damage."

Representational Image

The former assistant professor is a graduate of a prestigious university, but she refuses to disclose her identity.



The professor claimed in an interview with India Today TV that the university administration summoned her and demanded that she quit as a result of a complaint made by the parents of a university undergraduate student.

Pictures

They had deemed her Instagram post to be " objectionable ," she said.

A student of St. Xaviers Kolkata was recently caught looking at a pic of a Prof in her swimsuit (taken from her private IG). His father sent a letter to the uni condemning HER for his sons leching.



Prof was forced to resign in a strikingly humiliating manner.



2022 damn. pic.twitter.com/2RNLnXBd0p  Sukhnidh  _  (@skhndh) August 8, 2022

"Recently, I was appalled to find my son looking at some pictures of Prof. where she had posed in a sexually explicit way, causing deliberate public exposure. To look at a teacher dressed in her undergarments and uploading pictures on social media is utterly shameful for me as a parent since I have tried to shield my son from this kind of gross indecency and objectification of the female body. It is obscene, vulgar, and improper for an 18-year-old student to see his professor dressed in scanty clothes exhibiting her body on a public platform," it reads.

The Internet is outraged:

men would rather shit on their hands and then eat it than acknowledge that maybe they are the problem https://t.co/n6YohaEbeV  misha (@ourslore) August 9, 2022

there isn't much outrage over this topic. when will be free from this patriarchal society? raise your sons right. teach him not to violate someone's privacy. and then don't humiliate a woman for having a personal life. https://t.co/M4cgOaan26  salt air and the rust on your door (@mirroredivy) August 9, 2022

the boy literally invaded her private space like i hope both father and the son ch0|https://t.co/4jikKLxUiW  rachit (@aIiensprstar) August 9, 2022

That's her private account, her business, what the hell https://t.co/AhWOiadjWz  Chrys| salt air (pro skater yuzu) (@silverbelreaper) August 9, 2022

there isn't much outrage over this topic. when will be free from this patriarchal society? raise your sons right. teach him not to violate someone's privacy. and then don't humiliate a woman for having a personal life. https://t.co/M4cgOaan26  salt air and the rust on your door (@mirroredivy) August 9, 2022

The professor claims she was forced to appear before a committee alongside the vice chancellor, Fr. Felix Raj, and the university's registrar.

The professor said the complaint letter was read aloud at the meeting, forcing her to "leave" her job. She had to put her papers in the last week of October 2021.

"The picture from Instagram was said to be 'bordering on obscenity' and 'sexually exploitary'. It was a story on the photo-sharing app and not a post. It was uploaded on June 13, 2021, before the university offered me. My profile is a private account. I wanted to know how my picture was accessed. I was told there is a code of conduct and a dress code. I told them it is restricted only to the university premises," she said.

She claimed to have made a police report on October 24, 2021, the day before she tendered her resignation, alleging that her personal Instagram account may have been hacked and photographs from it may have leaked.

She claims that the complaint was not filed as an FIR. However, an FIR was filed against unknown persons after a letter was sent to the Kolkata Police Commissioner.

The professor subsequently sent the institution a legal notice seeking copies of the guardian's complaint and other papers about the October meeting in the first week of March.

Kolkata Professor

On March 28, the university reacted via its attorney, claiming that the legal notification was an "ill-motivated," "desperate," and "dishonest" attempt to reopen a closed chapter along with the complaint filed against her.

In addition, the university demanded an "unconditional apology" and Rs 99 crore in damages for "causing immense and irreparable damage."

She added, "What I seek is an apology for their wrongdoing. Major big institutions, at times, get away with such behavior with their employees. I will move the Calcutta High Court over it."

Guha stated in a police report she filed on October 24, 2021, that her private Instagram account may have been accessed, leading to the leak and circulation of her photographs. She added that the university's treatment of her termination equated to sexual harassment and deliberate character assassination.

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In the latest setback for the airline, private lenders IDFC First Bank and Yes Bank, along with state-owned Indian Bank have reportedly put their loans to SpiceJet Ltd. in the 'high risk' category, people with knowledge of the matter informed Reuters.



Lenders are concerned about SpiceJet's cash flows and have held discussions seeking assurances from the Indian budget carrier, as it is behind on payments to some aircraft lessors, sources told Reuters.



The last few weeks have been turbulent for the budget airline. In an unprecedented move, India's aviation regulator DGCA slashed SpiceJet's approved departures by 50% for a period of eight weeks after an audit revealed the airline's inability to establish "a safe, efficient and reliable" service.

shutterstock

While placing SpiceJet under "enhanced surveillance," the regulator stated in its notice there was "poor internal safety oversight" at the airline, and that financial issues at the carrier were leading to a "frequent shortage of spares."



SpiceJet denies the claims

However, in a stock exchange filing post stock market closure, SpiceJet called the report of its loans being put under the high risk category 'false and baseless,' as per ET.

"None of our banks has put our account on high risk or alert. The same has been confirmed to us by our lenders. It is unfortunate that the story was run despite our strong denial and no official comment from any of our banks," the company clarified.

"Loans are being serviced as per the agreed terms. We are not aware of any bank having any 'concern' nor has there been any communication regarding the same to SpiceJet," a company spokesperson told Reuters in an email.

northeast today

50% capacity rule on SpiceJet

The chief of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Arun Kumar, said SpiceJet will be permitted to reinstate its capacity but in a gradual manner and once it demonstrates it has fixed the manpower and spare part shortages.

"At this point in time we feel they can only operate 50% of their capacity without compromising safety," Kumar said, during an interview at the watchdog's headquarters in India's national capital New Delhi.

Kumar reportedly said a review of SpiceJet's operations and physical audit of the airline showed the carrier was "incapable" of flying at full capacity, the ET report mentioned.

"The decision is a pre-emptive step to ensure there is no safety issue in the future and does not mean the airline is not fit to fly. Our objective is not to disrupt service."

Reports also emerged that the airline's promoter Ajay Singh was in talks with a Middle Eastern carrier and an Indian conglomerate for a potential partial stake sale.

For the latest and interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here.
Just as there is a growing demand for cloud services among all kinds of organizations, theres an increased need for technology professionals with related skills. That includes cloud architects, who develop and oversee the organization's cloud environment.

Among their primary responsibilities, cloud architects design cloud applications, create cloud approval plans, and develop cloud storage management systems. These individuals also focus a good deal of their time on management, including managing and formulating strategies for maintaining cloud systems, servers, networks, storage, and front-end platforms.

IDG Cris Merritt is an independent cloud architect.

Other responsibilities include evaluating the integrity of software, hardware, and cloud applications; creating and organizing cloud systems; developing relevant cloud strategies and managing processes for adapting them; collaborating with IT security professionals to monitor cloud privacy; responding to a range of technical issues in a timely manner; and determining the most effective cloud architecture solutions to meet company needs.

To find out whats involved in becoming a cloud architect, we spoke with Cris Merritt, an independent cloud architect.

What do cloud architects earn? An InfoWorld story in 2019 noted that cloud architects who earn less than $150,000 are likely underpaid. That's because the role is so multifaceted, demanding expertise in security and governance, public and private cloud solutions, and traditional IT. Cloud architect salaries in 2022 typically range between $98,000 and $198,000, according to Glassdoor.com.

Education

Merritt studied at the engineering school at Johns Hopkins University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in applied mathematics in 1986. At the time there was no computer science department; you either needed to study electrical engineering or applied mathematics, and add in subjects like algorithms and data structures to bend it toward computer science, he says.

Applied mathematics was incredibly hard, because I was competing with math geniuses, Merritt says. But I worked hard and came away with an appreciation for the elegance of mathematics. One of my favorite subjects at the intersection of math and computer science was automata theory, which is about formal classes of theoretical machines and how these automata correspond to classes of computer language grammars such as regular expressions.

A lot of computer language and compiler design is a direct application of this theory, Merritt says. I found that link between mathematical theory and application fascinating, he says.

Merritt taught himself to code when he was about 12 years old. There was a computer terminal with a paper scrollno screenin a room in the school and nobody knew how to use it, he says. I read the manual and started coding. The first thing I built was a program to calculate and print out a table of bicycle gear ratios.

He would take a printout of the code into his classes and work secretly, marking up the printout with changes. Then he would run back to the computer room between classes to type them in, run the code, and take the output to his next class to debug it. No one had any idea what I was doing, Merritt says.

Early career moves

Following graduation, Merritt went to work as a software engineer at test equipment maker Megatest, where he developed a compiler for a VLSI (very large-scale integration) test language in C/C++. Five years later, he joined communications company Siemens, where he worked on an application for the graphical specification and design of software.

Beginning in 1993, Merritt took on roles for a number of companies in Switzerland, working in positions such as research assistant, software engineer, and Unix engineer, and gaining knowledge and experience in areas including RAID storage systems, industrial vibration analysis systems, and Unix distributions.

For one of those jobs, at UBS Bank, Merritt was on a team that designed UBS's in-house Unix distribution. That team was so far ahead of their time and they taught me so much, he says. They were doing infrastructure-as-code and devops before the terms existed. This experience was what turned me from developing industrial applications to data center operations and eventually cloud operations.

From Switzerland, Merritt moved on to the Netherlands, working at four different companies between 1998 and 2008. This included a stint as a Unix architect at a bank, where he managed a large Unix server farm for securities trading applications. He later held a role as CTO for an IT services and consulting firm, where he architected a platform for managing Wi-Fi hotspots and led a team of engineers to develop it.

Following his time in the Netherlands, Merritt returned to Switzerland, where he worked as a security consultant for Sun Microsystems. He also did a two-year stint as an information security specialist at a security company, Engiweb Security, in Italy.

Becoming a cloud architect

In 2011, Merritt founded a company called Bay31, which developed a cloud-based security analytics platform. He served as CEO and co-architect of the product, then sold Bay31 to Courion Corp. in 2015. Next, he joined Kespry, a drone analytics platform provider, as cloud architect. In that role he developed and managed Kespry's AWS infrastructure for distributed image processing.

Then, in 2017, Merritt became an independent cloud architect. In this role he helps clients manage AWS cloud projects from design to deployment, optimizing their infrastructures for better performance and lower costs.

My career has been really nontraditional, since I have had a ton of different jobs, Merritt says. I have often worked as a freelancer, and have worked all over the world. I discovered long ago that I most enjoy the challenge of a new job, learning new tech and new domains.

Being a freelancer enables Merritt to work on a variety of projects. It also benefits my clients because I have seen so many different environments, organizations, processes, and growing pains and I can put that experience to work for them, he says. I also really value the personal flexibility. Some weeks I work more, some less, or sometimes I have an acting gig and focus on that. If I'm in between clients I may take off to travel for a while. I've really made a point of cultivating and defending this kind of freedom. I feel really fortunate for that.

A day in the life of a cloud architect

Merritt has found a niche working with clients that might be startups or smaller or medium-size companies that are growing quickly. He notes that he can relate to their entrepreneurial values from having worked at a number of these kinds of companies himself. I can switch roles according to what they need in the moment, he says. One week I'm coding, the next I'm doing high-level design, and the next may be a go-to-market plan. I thrive on this kind of change, and clients appreciate that I can switch roles as they require.

I try to do work on hard problems that require heavy left-brain thinking, like coding or debugging, in the morning, Merritt says. Then get out for some physical exercise to clear my head. I try to push meetings, writing, and admin to the afternoon or evening.

For his current client, Merritt is doing a lot of architectural design work for security, infrastructure, and technology operations, including writing code, testing, and planning. For some clients, I'm collaborating a lot all day, he says. For others, I just show results when I'm done, he says. I post milestones regularly, so clients can follow where I'm at with their project. My clients give me a lot of trust, which I really appreciate, and I don't let them down. I have really high standards for quality, for over-engineering. That's the engineer in me.

There's also a certain amount of work to acquire new clients, he says, but most come through referrals or LinkedIn. Merritt also devotes time regularly to studying new technologies.

In the last few years, I've become particularly interested in container orchestration, such as Kubernetes, Merritt says. I see so many cloud environments that are ad-hoc collections of servers, and companies often don't know what's running on their own servers. I think Kubernetes is the way forward to manage this complexity for scalable and secure operations."

Training and certifications: AWS and Kubernetes

Merritt has earned certifications in areas such as AWS Cloud and Kubernetes. The training is valuable and the certification helps get your foot in the door, he says. But you really need project experience to be fluent with any new tech. You just have to get on the project to get it. Honestly, I learn something new on every job.

Memorable career moments and inspirations

My startup was certainly a memorable experience, Merritt says. We had amazing technology, but we were terrible at sales. Three years into it we had writeups in [research firm] Gartner and tech magazines about how cool our technology was, but we were running on fumes to pay our few employees. Around a month before the month before the money ran outwhich we kept a secret, of coursea big company called and offered to buy the company. It was so stressful, but it wasn't a coincidence. because we had set it up to attract that call. I learned that if you venture something and stick to it, the reward will come.

In my profession, I learned a lot from the guy that pulled me into my first startup, Merritt says. I learned from him what you can achieve with gumption, authenticity, and putting your customers and colleagues first. Ultimately that startup failed, but it was the genesis of the next one, which succeeded. More recently, I am enormously grateful to my girlfriend, my partner, who is an actor and made me realize that I have an artist in me, too. She encouraged me to start painting and acting and I have discovered an enormous well of creativity and expression that I had never tapped into.

Career advice from a cloud architect

Keep learning and changing, try out different things, Merritt says. Trust that it will lead somewhere amazing that you may not have predicted. Indeed, my whole career has been about continually learning and reinventing myself professionally.
Unionized cargo truckers hold a press conference in front of HiteJinro's headquarters in Seoul, Monday, to ask the labor ministry to conduct a special investigation into the company. Yonhap



Liquor maker claims compensation of $2 million against unionized truckers



By Park Jae-hyuk



The five-month dispute between HiteJinro and unionized cargo truck drivers has hardly shown any signs of a possible settlement, as they have continued to face difficulties in reaching an agreement, according to industry officials, Tuesday.



After the company sent 250 office workers on Monday to its Hongcheon brewery in Gangwon Province to deliver 120,000 boxes of Terra, Hite, Max and FiLite, the truckers held a press conference at HiteJinro's headquarters in Seoul the same day to ask the labor authorities to conduct a special investigation into the management's attempt to destroy the union.



In March, the truck drivers joined the Cargo Truckers Solidarity movement under the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions. They began their protest against the liquor maker that month by blocking the entrances to the company's soju factories in Cheongju, North Chungcheong Province, and Icheon, Gyeonggi Province.



Even after the umbrella union ended its week-long nationwide strike in June, they have continued their fight against HiteJinro, demanding the company raise their delivery fees. The truckers have claimed that their delivery fees have been virtually frozen over the past 15 years.



Earlier this month, the drivers started a sit-in at Hongcheon brewery. Though the drivers do not work there, the sit in was intended to disrupt the delivery of beer, considering its high demand during the summer.



Last Thursday, five drivers jumped into the Hongcheon River to evade police.





Police escort a cargo truck coming out of HiteJinro's Hongcheon brewery in Gangwon Province, Monday. Yonhap
For its Canada launch, DataStream has begun signing up consultants, managed service providers (MSP) and value-added resellers. It recently signed six such partners, which are all based in Ontario, IT World Canada reported.

The six partners are:

EmpowerIT of Waterloo, ON.

Blue Triangle IT Solutions of Toronto, ON

JC Kelly of Cobourg, ON

InfoMedia Systems Group , which has offices in Ottawa, Toronto, and Cornwall, ON, and St. Johns, NL

allCare IT of Kingston, ON

ITEK Solutions of Richmond Hill, ON

Modern businesses need to fully understand their cyber risks and vulnerabilities, said DataStream CEO Andy Anderson. Our comprehensive suite of tools  including our Cyber Insurance Readiness Assessment and Partner Risk Reports will help Canadian MSPs and SMBs assess and remediate their risks in a new and profound way.

DataStreams services are available in all provinces and territories except Quebec, but the brokerage has expressed plans to eventually offer coverage in the province soon.

DataStream helps MSPs navigate hard customer conversations surrounding cybersecurity, commented DataStream director of sales and revenue operations Joe Randall. The tools we make available to our partners give them the insight they need to best position SMBs for appropriate coverage while simultaneously creating new business opportunities.
Manek added that at its core, Ridge Canada is a service-based organization that provides comprehensive guidance, and that she looks forward to how the companys mission advances further with the new tech E&O package.

Ridge Canada is delighted for this next chapter of growth and diversification, commented Ridge Canada president and CEO Greg Markell.

Markell noted that working with Manek to develop the product has been a pleasure, as she brings a wealth of experience in the professional liability space.

Read more: Ridge Canada associate underwriter granted underwriting authority

Earlier this month, Ridge Canada announced that its associate underwriter, Vanessa Abraham had been granted underwriting authority. A member of Ridge Canada since 2021, Abraham was previously an insurance broker associated with Hub International.
Winning the talent war Insurance companies in the United States are striving to attract and retain members of the 2.83 million strong industry workforce, which based on government projections is due to increase during 2022. Over the past year, nearly 80% of agency owners and principals have made changes to employee offerings, according to a recent report from Vertafore. Further governmental statistics show a major focus on total compensation, which from Q3 2021 to Q2 2022 jumped 2.6% to 5.4%, with the wages and salaries component of that rising from 3% to 4.8% (figures are based on a 12-month percentage change). To understand which companies are making smart moves, Insurance Business America polled the employees of self-nominated insurance companies on categories such as benefits, culture, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). Companies that achieved an 80% or greater average satisfaction rating across all the categories were recognized as Top Insurance Employers in 2022.

As we return to the office, we find ourselves more flexible when managing employee work-life expectations. We now offer hybrid and remote employment opportunities to current employees and future candidates

Jenny Lopez-Rogina, Specialty Comp Insurance Solutions

Uncertain times ahead

IBA asked three of the Top Insurance Employers this year to share their views on the challenges they face in the HR environment.

Jenny Lopez-Rogina, AVP and director of operations at Specialty Comp Insurance Solutions (SCIS), explained the past two years have shown how effective operating remotely can be. As we return to the office, we find ourselves more flexible when managing employee work-life expectations, she says. We now offer hybrid and remote employment opportunities to current employees and future candidates.

Direct Connection Advertising & Marketing founder and CEO Anita Nevins casts a more critical eye. Her view is the insurance labor market has been a material issue for their clients in recent years. It is usually their number one problem  finding and retaining good people, says Nevins. And now with the added layer of COVID, it has become even more difficult. So many people, it seems, decided to become self-employed with the hopes they would work less and earn more. Im afraid there will be a rude awakening. This could mean we see more people coming back once they have tried to make a go of self-employment, but its hard to speculate how long that will take.

Meanwhile, Daren DIppolito, president and CEO of Provident Insurance Programs, has a balanced perspective. The past two years have opened more opportunities for people to change positions and employers since remote work has become somewhat of the industry norm, he says. The same holds true for employers in that the talent pool has expanded with geographic boundaries eliminated. In spite of peoples desire to work remotely and have greater flexibility, I believe they still want an opportunity to gather and collaborate with their colleagues. However, that will be different than what it once was.

Gen Z and millennials are looking for more in a company than just salary

Anita Nevins, Direct Connection Advertising & Marketing

Multigenerational teams

Insurance companies have to balance the needs of four different working demographics: Gen Z, born after 1997; Millennials, the under 40s; Gen X, the group born between 1965 and 1980; and Baby Boomers, their older employees.

Raised on technology, Gen Z is tech-savvy and highly entrepreneurial and prone to short attention spans, according to Lopez-Rogina, while millennials are considerably idealistic and need to feel they are working for a noble cause.

Gen Z and millennials are looking for more in a company than just salary, says Nevins. Gen Z is motivated by flexibility and interested in the lifestyle and benefits a company can offer, rather than purely the salary or considering their longer-term career. Millennials are more focused on purpose. They seek specific company cultures that care for their people as individuals and are actively working to make the world better.

Then, there are the older groups. Gen X are autonomous, reliable, and family oriented, says Lopez-Rogina. Providing work-life balance would be key. Baby Boomers have a solid work ethic and want job security and health benefits. Most Boomers are practical. They prefer face-to-face meetings and social interactions as part of doing business.

As Nevins sees it, Gen X and Baby Boomers consider their personal lives and work lives as separate, and they have been drawn to the insurance industry as it offers a long-term career with opportunities for promotion.

DIppolito feels there are common fundamentals that all employees have regardless of their age. A company whose mission they believe in, an employer that appreciates them as individuals, compensation and benefits that are meaningful to them, a company that has a dynamic culture, and flexibility in the way they work.

We seek to foster a mission-oriented culture where we work hard, have fun, are playful, and empower each colleague to do her or his job to the best of their ability

Daren DIppolito, Provident Insurance Solutions

Including everyone matters

DE&I initiatives are a vital part of the workplace, but what kinds of offerings do our winners have?

SCIS has a DE&I resources page on their extranet, allowing employees to engage in everything from a bi-weekly manager learning series, to womens and Black inclusion networks and other identity-based group events.

At Direct Connection, Nevins has a small team that started with herself and gradually attracted women who shared her vision. We do now have a male executive. As we have grown and solidified our core values, we have ensured that there are components of DE&I in each team, she says. Our team, for the most part, is made up of millennials and Gen Z. We speak to them as individuals, show them we care about them and their work-life balance by offering flexible hours, work from home  some have relocated to other states, and we have kept them.

DIppolito says Provident continues to grow and is looking to expand its recruiting network to access a broader candidate pool. They also actively support schools and organizations that seek to provide equitable opportunities for underprivileged students and individuals at the local, national, and international scales.

Creating their DNA

Companies are proactively trying to differentiate themselves from the competition to attract and retain in-demand staff members. So how do they go about it?

We are employee-focused and strive to continuously provide a safe and trusted environment for all, says Lopez-Rogina of SCIS. We provide a conflict-free work environment with a high level of trust where our team works in tandem toward one common goal  our organizations growth and success. Our organization is very efficient. Communication flows freely and decision making is swift.

Direct Connection is focused primarily on its core values of balance, contribution, growth, integrity, respect, and teamwork. Nevins explains, These are the foundations of our hiring and onboarding process and thus impact the way our team shows up and works together every day. We also concentrate on our company motto: We are passionate about helping our clients. We are proactive and strive to provide more value than our clients expect. We are energetic and committed to being people our clients love to talk to and work with.

As for Provident, DIppolito adds, We seek to foster a mission-oriented culture where we work hard, have fun, are playful, and empower each colleague to do her or his job to the best of their ability. We want each colleague to be able to flourish, and part of how we support that is by paying for their health and dental insurance and by contributing to their 401(k) plans without requiring an employee match. We also regularly host company social events to foster comradery and fellowship.

501+ employees

Applied Underwriters

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Higginbotham

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101500 employees

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Euclid Transactional

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HomeServices Insurance

Otterstedt Insurance Agency

Reliance Partners

Savoy Associates

Seven Corners

Shepherd Insurance

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26100 employees

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Cleary Insurance

Consolidated Insurance + Risk Management

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Gilroy Kernan & Gilroy

Great Lakes General Agency

Gridiron Insurance Underwriters

Gunn-Mowery

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Mahowald

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1025 employees
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A Massachusetts police department whose officers are accused of wrongfully arresting a Black man while pursuing a white suspect said Friday that an outside investigation found no evidence of racial profiling.

The town manager for Arlington, a Boston suburb, and its police chief said in an emailed statement that the town intends to vigorously defend itself against the allegations made in the federal civil rights lawsuit filed this week.

Police have not responded to questions about whether the officers involved were wearing body cameras or whether the department uses them, but there is no body camera footage listed among the information reviewed in the investigators report.

Donovan Johnson alleged in the case filed in Boston federal court that a white officer who had been chasing a white suspect grabbed him, threw him to the ground and pinned him there with a knee on his neck as he was walking home after work one day in February last year.

Johnsons lawsuit against the town of Arlington and three of its police officers alleges that his constitutional rights were violated when police stopped him, searched him, and placed him in the back of a cruiser before releasing him with no charges.

The town said Friday that police previously hired a licensed private detective  a former police officer in another Massachusetts town to look into the allegations.

The investigator concluded that the officer followed proper use of force policy and that there was no evidence of racial profiling. The investigator also said the officer denied race played any role in his decision to stop the man and told the investigator he believed Johnson was an accomplice to the white suspect.

The investigation also concluded there was no evidence Johnson had committed any crime before he was stopped.

The investigative report said Officer Steven Conroy, who Johnson alleges stopped him, also denied pulling out a gun or placing a knee on the mans neck. A message seeking comment was sent to Conroy by The Associated Press. Conroys LinkedIn page shows he has since left the police department.

The investigator did find that the officers violated some department policies and three officers were disciplined, the town said.

I believe in the Arlington Police Department. Its track record is one of balanced, honest and progressive policing, Town Manager Sandy Pooler said in the statement.

Johnsons lawsuit says police were initially called to an Arlington hotel about a man seen there who the staff believed was previously involved in the theft of televisions. The white man was known to police for prior criminal acts and when officers arrived at the hotel, Conroy showed a photo of the man to the front desk clerk, who said it appeared to be the same person.

Police went to the room to investigate, but the man escaped and they began to chase him, according to the lawsuit. Johnson, who was almost to his Somerville home, saw the man jog past him before Conroy approached and yelled at both men to get the (expletive) on the floor.

The white suspect got on his knees, but Johnson stayed standing, the lawsuit says. Johnson says Conroy threw him to the ground and pinned him there by placing a knee on his neck. The complaint says Johnson at one point yelled I cant breathe!

Another officer who arrived in a cruiser recognized the white man and put him in handcuffs, and the suspect told the officer he didnt know Johnson, according to the lawsuit. A third officer who arrived immediately jumped on Johnson to help Conroy hold him down, according to the complaint.

Johnsons attorneys say the officers had no reason to believe he was involved in any crime: Police had a photo of the white suspect they were looking for, Johnson and the other man both told officers they didnt know each other, and nothing in the investigation indicated that there was more than one male suspect involved, the lawsuit says.

The complaint says Johnson was released at the hotel after its staff told officers they had never seen him before.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Lawsuits Law Enforcement Massachusetts
Ships exporting Ukraine grain through the Black Sea will be protected by a 10 nautical mile buffer zone, according to long-awaited procedures agreed by Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the United Nations on Monday and seen by Reuters.

The United Nations and Turkey brokered a deal last month after Russias Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine halted grain exports, stoking a global food crisis that the United Nations says has pushed tens of millions more people into hunger.

Since then Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and the United Nations have been working to hammer out written procedures in the hope that it will assure shipping and insurance companies enough to resume grain and fertilizer shipments from the Ukrainian ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and Yuzhny.

One insurance industry source said the procedures read as a reassuring set of rules. But will all sides stick to it?

We very much hope it will increase the traffic under this initiative, said U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spokesman Stephane Dujarric after the procedures were agreed.

The initiative has been operating in a trial phase for the past two weeks. Ten ships  stuck in Ukraine since the war started  have departed with corn, soybeans and sunflower oil and meal. Two empty vessels have traveled to Ukraine to collect shipments.

London Insurance Sector Readies $50M Ukraine Grain Cargo Cover

The biggest ship yet, the Ocean Lion, is due to leave the port of Chornomorsk on Tuesday to deliver 64,720 metric tons of corn to South Korea, said the Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) on Monday. The JCC in Istanbul oversees the deal and is made up of Turkish, Russian, Ukrainian and U.N. officials.

Commercial Operation

Ukraine, along with Russia, is a major global supplier of wheat and other foodstuffs. However, the first ship to depart Ukraine under the U.N. deal last week is now looking for another port to unload after the initial Lebanese buyer refused delivery, citing a more than five-month delay.

The United Nations has stressed that the export deal is a commercial  not humanitarian  operation that will be driven by the market. All ships are required to be inspected to allay Russian concerns they could be smuggling weapons in to Ukraine.

Neil Roberts, head of marine and aviation at Lloyds Market Association  which represents the interests of all underwriting businesses in the Lloyds of London insurance market  told Reuters that the industry could now play its part.

The successful exit of multiple vessels was beyond the imagining of most people only a few weeks ago and to have come this far is extraordinary, said Roberts. To actually achieve the goals of the U.N.s initiative would be something for historians to reflect on.

Protection Zone

The shipping and insurance industry wanted assurances of a secure journey with no threat of sea mines or attacks to their ships and crews. These are typically covered in standard operating procedures, which is what was agreed on Monday.

The parties will not undertake any attacks against merchant vessels or other civilian vessels and port facilities engaged in this initiative, according to the procedures for merchant vessels document.

One insurance industry source said the procedures read as a reassuring set of rules. But will all sides stick to it?.

Under the agreed procedures, the JCC will provide information on the planned movement of ships through the maritime humanitarian corridor, which will be shared with Russia, Ukraine and Turkeys military to prevent incidents.

Then as the vessel moves through the maritime humanitarian corridor it will be protected by a 10 nautical mile circle buffer zone around it.

No military vessel, aircraft or UAVs (drones) will close to within 10 nautical miles of a merchant vessel transiting the Maritime Humanitarian Corridor, excluding territorial seas of Ukraine, according to the document.

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said there was every chance the pace of exports could be maintained.

The key is how in the days to come our partners will prove able to prevent any attempts by Russia to disrupt exports and again further provoke a world food crisis, Zelenskiy said in a video address on Monday.

Russia has blamed Ukraine for stalling shipments by mining its port waters and rejects accusations Moscow is responsible for fueling the food crisis.

(Reporting by Jonathan Saul and Michelle Nichols; additional reporting by Ronald Popeski; Editing by David Evans and Grant McCool)

Photograph: A boat with Russian, Ukrainian, Turkish and U.N. officials heads to the Sierra Leone-flagged cargo ship Razoni, to check if the grain shipment is in accordance with a crucial agreement signed last month by Moscow and Kyiv, at an inspection area in the Black Sea off the coast of Istanbul, Turkey, on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022. The cargo ship Razoni, loaded with 26,000 tons of corn, set sail from Ukraines Odesa on Aug. 1, enroute to its final destination in Lebanon. Photo credit: AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky.

Topics Carriers Ukraine
Allianz SE is considering a sale of its Saudi Arabian unit, people familiar with the matter said, a move that would help the German insurer streamline its portfolio and raise cash.

The German insurer is working with an adviser on the potential disposal of its controlling stake in Allianz Saudi Fransi Cooperative Insurance Co., the people said, asking not to be identified because the matter is private.

Shares of Riyadh-based Allianz Saudi Fransi have dropped about 44% this year, giving the company a market value of roughly $231 million. Other insurers have expressed preliminary interest in acquiring the business, according to the people.

Deliberations are in the early stages and Allianz could still decide to retain the asset, they said. A representative for Allianz declined to comment, while a spokesperson for Allianz Saudi Fransi couldnt immediately be reached for comment.

Established in 2007, Allianz Saudi Fransi is a joint venture between the Allianz group and Banque Saudi Fransi. Allianz owns a 51% stake in the venture, according to the groups latest annual report. It offers individual products such as motor and travel insurance, as well as corporate services including marine and health insurance, its website shows.

An exit from Saudi Arabia would follow the footsteps of other European insurers leaving the country. French insurer AXA SA last year sold insurance operations in the region.

With assistance from Stephan Kahl and Reema Alothman.

Copyright 2022 Bloomberg.

Topics Allianz
U.S. white men sentenced to life in prison for killing Black jogger Ahmaud Arbery

Xinhua) 09:17, August 09, 2022

WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Two white men were sentenced to life in prison on Monday for the 2020 murder of Black man Ahmaud Arbery.

U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of Georgia Lisa Godbey Wood handed down the sentences against Travis McMichael and his father, Greg McMichael.

"A young man is dead. Ahmaud Arbery will be forever 25. And what happened a jury found happened because he's Black," Wood said.

A federal jury convicted the McMichaels and their neighbor William "Roddie" Bryan in February of violating Arbery's civil rights by attacking him because of his race.

All three were also found guilty of attempted kidnapping while the McMichaels were convicted of using guns in the commission of a violent crime.

The McMichaels armed themselves with guns and chased Arbery in a pickup truck after he ran past their home outside Brunswick, Georgia on Feb. 23, 2020.

Bryan joined the pursuit in his own truck and recorded a phone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery.

The McMichaels claimed they suspected Arbery was a burglar but investigators determined he was unarmed and had committed no crimes.

Greg McMichael addressed the Arbery family on Monday, saying that their loss was "beyond description."

"I'm sure my words mean very little to you but I want to assure you I never wanted any of this to happen," he said.

Outside the courtroom, Arbery's mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones, responded to his statement.

"I think he realizes that he made some horrible decisions," she said. "Unfortunately, his apology doesn't bring back my son."

Bryan is set to be sentenced at separate hearings later on Monday.

A Georgia state judge imposed life sentences for all three men in January for Arbery's murder.

The sentences on Monday came days after the U.S. Department of Justice charged four current and former police officers in Louisville, Kentucky for their roles in the 2020 fatal shooting of African American woman Breonna Taylor.

"Breonna Taylor should have awakened in her home, as usual, on the morning of March 13, 2020," Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke said last week. "Tragically, she did not. She was just 26 years old."

The indictments against the officers allege that Louisville Police Detective Joshua Jaynes and Sergeant Kyle Meany drafted and approved what they knew was a false affidavit to support a search warrant for Taylor's home.

That false affidavit set in motion events that led to Ms. Taylor's death when other officers executed that warrant, according to Clarke.

The killings of Arbery and Taylor fueled racial justice demonstrations across the United States after the murder of African American man George Floyd by a white police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota in May 2020.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
gettyimagesbank



By Park Jae-hyuk



Korea's reliance on intermediate goods imported from China is expected to make it more difficult for Asia's fourth-largest economy to overcome its trade deficit with the world's most populous country, according to the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Tuesday.



In its latest report, the KCCI mentioned the rising imports of intermediate goods, supply chain difficulties and the reduction in tariffs based on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) as the three main reasons for Korea's trade deficit with China over the past three months.



In particular, the business association's analysis showed that Korea has been more dependent on China in terms of supplies of battery materials.



"The recent trade deficit has resulted from Korea's declining exports of intermediate goods to China and rising imports of such goods from China," Hyundai Research Institute researcher Han Jae-jin said.



The RCEP, which took effect on Feb. 1, has also worsened Korea's trade deficit with China, as preferential tariffs have prompted Korea to import significantly larger amount of battery materials from China. According to the KCCI, tariff rates on lithium oxide and lithium hydroxide dropped from 5.5 percent to 0 percent after the RCEP came into effect.



Against this backdrop, the KCCI expected that Korea's exports to China may recover, if the Chinese economy recovers slightly during the second half of this year, living up to the expectations of major investment banks and global economic institutions, such as the IMF, OECD and World Bank.



However, the business association did not rule out the possibility of a prolonged trade deficit with China, citing Korea's difficulties in diversifying the supply chain of intermediate goods.



"Due to the price competitiveness of Chinese products, it is difficult for Korean companies to diversify their suppliers of raw materials for semiconductors and batteries," KCCI international trade division head Lee Seong-woo said. "Korea should upgrade its free trade agreement with China or utilize the RCEP better, while making efforts to diversify importers and secure technologies."






This edition of International People Moves details appointments at Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance and Hannover Re.

A summary of these new hires follows here.

BHSI Enters Commercial Hull in Australasia, Hiring Hesson From QBE

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI) announced it is expanding into the commercial hull segment in Australasia and has named Jake Hesson, underwriting manager, Marine.

Hesson has more than 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, most of it specializing in marine hull and liabilities. He was most recently Northern Regional manager, Marine Specialty Risks, focused on marine hull, liability, and protection and indemnity (P&I), at QBE in Sydney.

We are pleased to further extend the range of specialty products BHSI can now offer to our customers and brokers across Australia and New Zealand, commented Mark Lingafelter, president, BHSI, Australasia.

Jake comes to BHSI with exceptional marine expertise and local market knowledge experience, said Dimitry Zilberud, head of Marine, BHSI in Australasia. With Jake at the helm, we look forward to expanding our marine product portfolio and building new commercial hull relationships throughout Australasia.

Hesson is based in Sydney and can be reached at Jake.Hesson@bhspecialty.com.

***

Hannover Re Appoints Swiss Res Ooi Oversee P/C Expansion in Asia-Pacific

Hannover Ruck SE has appointed Sharon Ooi as an additional member of the groups Executive Board, effective January 2023.

Hannover Re said it is strengthening its focus on Asia as a growth region. Ooi will oversee the further expansion of Hannover Res property/casualty reinsurance business in Asia-Pacific.

Ooi joins from Swiss Re and will be primarily based in Hong Kong. She joined Swiss Re in Asia in 2006 and most recently served as the Sydney-based Head of Australia and New Zealand. Before that, she held various positions at the reinsurers property and casualty business in Asia. She holds an Honours Degree in Cell and Molecular Biology from the National University of Singapore.

With Sharon Ooi, we have been able to attract an internationally recognized expert for the growth region of Asia-Pacific to Hannover Re, said Torsten Leue, chairman of the Supervisory Board of Hannover Re. I look forward to working with her.

Im delighted to welcome Sharon to Hannover Res Executive Board. She will play a crucial role in shaping Hannover Res further expansion in Asia-Pacific as the region is gradually evolving into the worlds largest insurance market, said Jean-Jacques Henchoz, chief executive officer of Hannover Re. Sharon has proven her skills in various positions throughout the region and has an intimate knowledge of the markets.

Topics Commercial Lines Talent Property Casualty New Markets Swiss Re
Munich Res profit slumped as the reinsurer took a hit of almost $1 billion to its investment portfolio in a volatile quarter for financial markets.

The Munich-based company wrote down the value of its holdings by 908 million euros ($926 million) in the three months through June, mainly reflecting declines in the value of its equity investments. That reduced income from investments by half, and profit for the group by 31% to 768 million euros, according to a statement Tuesday.

While Munich Re confirmed its target for a profit of 3.3 billion euros this year, it warned that volatile markets, an economic slowdown and the financial fallout from Russias invasion of Ukraine had increased uncertainty. Munich Re had suspended new business in Russia and Belarus in March and said it would stop investments there.

The reinsurer already wrote down the value of Russian and Ukrainian bonds by almost 700 million euros in the first quarter, and also booked about 200 million euros in war-related reinsurance costs in the first half of the year.

That is our current best estimate. We can only book numbers based on what we currently know, Munich Re Chief Financial Officer Christoph Jurecka said in an interview on Bloomberg Television, referring to war costs. Its still in the early days with a lot of uncertainty around.

Shares of Munich Re rose 1% at 10:52 a.m. in Frankfurt trading, with analysts pointing to a surprisingly strong solvency ratio, a key measure of financial strength. Investment income was lower than expected, analysts at Citigroup wrote in a note.

Major-loss expenditures from natural catastrophes are posing another challenge, increasing by about a quarter. The costliest natural catastrophe for Munich Re in the quarter was the drought in South America, with losses amounting to about 130 million euros.

Extreme heat and arid conditions this summer have also led to water scarcity and wildfires in Europe. It is difficult to put an exact figure on costs from those events as their effects take a while to emerge, Munich Re has said earlier.

In the July reinsurance renewals, Munich Re increased the volume of business written by 6% while keeping prices stable. The primary focus of the renewals was on the Americas and Australia, and with global clients.

With assistance from Dani Burger, Mark Cudmore and Jan-Patrick Barnert.

Photograph: The burned out remains of a destroyed restaurant at Lagune Beach in Gironde, France, on Friday, July 22, 2022. Firefighters battled wildfires in the Gironde region that have destroyed pine forests and campsites near the Dune of Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe and a popular tourist attraction. Photo credit: Nathan Laine/Bloomberg

Copyright 2022 Bloomberg.

Topics Profit Loss
A new federal study said dozens of people got sick after visiting a splash park near Wichita, Kansas, last summer.

The study by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that 21 people contracted Shigella bacteria and six others became sick with the norovirus after visiting the splash park at Tanganyika Wildlife Park in Goddard. Another 36 people reported gastrointestinal illnesses after visiting the splash park but didnt have lab tests confirming what caused their illnesses, according to The Wichita Eagle. At least four people were hospitalized afterward.

Previously, state and local health officials had said that eight people who visited the park contracted Shigella and other people tested positive for the norovirus, sapovirus and a type of E. coli called enteropathogenic E. coli.

The CDC report is based on a survey of 404 people who visited the splash park last year between May 28 and June 19.

The splash park located about 14 miles (22.53 kilometers) west of Wichita was allowed to reopen last July after upgrading its pump and filtration system and passing a health inspection.

The report confirmed the illnesses werent linked to any of the animals at the interactive zoo.

At least three lawsuits have been filed against the splash pad. One of those was settled, but two others remain pending.

The director of the wildlife park Matt Fouts told the newspaper he didnt find the study useful although hes all for analyzing data to learn from the past.

It offered little advice for other splash parks besides ensuring you have signage that states `dont swallow the water and offered no additional insight into the investigation, Fouts said. Regardless, it did affirm that there have been no additional incidents because we took the situation seriously and found ways to enhance our system and processes so that the Splash Park is safer than ever.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Kansas
The two small houses are going up on the back half of a lot just off a busy street, not far from downtown Fargo.

These homes are identical in blueprint, theyre 13 by 23, with 12 foot ceilings, theres a loft in each of them, explains Grassroots Development president Justin Berg, the man behind this one-of-a-kind construction and research project.

One of the houses is built with a traditional wood frame, fiberglass insulation and covered with that shiny white house wrap material.

A second house a few feet away also has a wood frame but the walls are filled with 12 inches of hempcrete, giving it a brown, textured look inside and out.

The raw material is called hurd. Its the inner woody core of the hemp plant, chipped into small pieces.

The hurd is mixed with a lime binder and water.

And you blend the mixture to a consistency, a nice sort of chicken salad _ is our joke _consistency, said Grassroots Development sustainability consultant Sydney Glup. And we hand packed, physically hand packed, this entire house.

They were guided through the process by Bismarck, N.D.-based Homeland Hempcrete, but the process was easy to learn said Glup, just a lot of work schlepping buckets of the material, dumping it into forms and packing it so the walls would be even after the forms were removed.

The hempcrete walls need to cure for six weeks before they are covered inside and out with a finish layer of plaster.

These homes might become short-term rentals, but the primary purpose is research.

Were just trying to get that concrete nonbiased research to contribute to the industry so we can troubleshoot and figure out how to do better, said Glup. We want it to be so that anybody who wants a healthier dwelling can afford it.

To collect data, sensors are tucked into the walls of both houses to monitor moisture and air temperature. Energy consumption will also be closely monitored.

This from my knowledge, is the only study of its kind, said Riley Gordon, principal engineer with the Minnesota-based Agricultural Utilization Research Institute, a non-profit organization partially funded by the state, which helps develop new markets for Minnesota crops.

Were just looking to bring to leverage the opportunity of having these two buildings built side by side, said Gordon. Theyre identical, its perfect for a controlled study.

Gordon is working with a Minneapolis-based Center for Energy and Environment, which will analyze the data collected from each home.

These hempcrete walls dont provide structural support, two by six wood studs give the wall strength.

Hemp is touted as a healthier alternative to insulation, reducing mold by creating walls that breathe, providing excellent insulating properties and serving as thermal mass, storing heat. The material is also flame resistant.

But Gordon said theres a need for data to validate some of those claims.

Up till now, a lot of the talk has just been a lot of claims that havent really been backed up by a whole lot of data, he said. So I think this is going to, for good or for worse, provide some answers to questions that Ive heard pretty often about this material. So I think its a very important study, and timely.

The cost of construction is about 25 percent higher for the hemp house. Thats partly because raw materials are still hard to find and expensive. But Justin Berg also believes this research will show hemp construction can save money long term.

Paying more upfront and getting those savings over time by energy usage, you know, having a biodegradable structure. You start measuring out the materials and its impact and I think thats where were hoping to help shine a light on it, said Berg.

To purchase raw material that met their standards for consistency, Berg said they had to buy the hurd in 400 pound bags from a company in Kansas and ship it to Fargo.

There are at least two new hemp processors starting in Minnesota, and Berg is building a processing facility in Wahpeton that he plans to have operational later this year, but he expects it will take months to fine tune the processing to turn out a high quality product.

Berg says theres still a steep learning curve, from farmers who grow the crop to processors turning out raw materials, but hes willing to invest in the belief that hemp will become a sustainable construction alternative.

Its definitely the early days, and I think in 10 years, youll see an industry that has a real impact, he said.

The region will need more hemp processing capacity to bring raw material prices down, and farmers need to be convinced hemp is a viable alternative crop, said Berg.

He would like to see the federal government do more to encourage hemp production as an alternative crop that could also help combat climate change by storing climate-warming carbon.

You look at something thats going to help sequester carbon in the soil with a deep taproot crop as well as being put into materials that are stored for 100 plus years and continue to sequester carbon, said Berg.

But ultimately, farmers will need a consistent market for the crop, and the construction industry will need to accept hemp as a viable alternative material. Berg hopes this research project on a tiny plot of land in Fargo, will help convince more builders and consumers to give hemp a try.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Cannabis Construction
Wisconsin Insurance Commissioner Nathan Houdek announced last week that the Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) has partnered with their exam vendor to offer insurance agent licensing exams in Spanish and Hmong.

Its important that Wisconsin insurance agents reflect the population they serve, said Commissioner Houdek. Expanding opportunities for agents who speak Spanish or Hmong to get licensed is one way that we can support greater diversity in our industry.

OCI licenses and regulates agents operating in Wisconsin that sell insurance policies for health, homeowners, travel, crop, and more. There are over 197,000 agents licensed to do business in Wisconsin and over 35,000 of those agents are Wisconsin residents.

Insurance agents are a trusted resource for consumers looking to protect their home, health, and financial future, said Rebecca Rebholz, Administrator of the Division of Market Regulation and Enforcement. By licensing more agents who are fluent in Spanish and Hmong, more consumers will be able to get the information they need from their agent in their native language.

Source: OCI

Topics Wisconsin
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MJ was a tiny, black-haired girl, just 5 years old, when her father admitted to his bishop that he was sexually abusing her.

The father, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and an admitted pornography addict, was in counseling with his bishop when he revealed the abuse. The bishop, who was also a family physician, followed church policy and called what church officials have dubbed the help line for guidance.

But the call offered little help for MJ. Lawyers for the church, widely known as the Mormon church, who staff the help line around the clock told Bishop John Herrod not to call police or child welfare officials. Instead he kept the abuse secret.

They said, You absolutely can do nothing, Herrod said in a recorded interview with law enforcement.

Herrod continued to counsel MJs father, Paul Douglas Adams, for another year, and brought in Adams wife, Leizza Adams, in hopes she would do something to protect the children. She didnt. Herrod later told a second bishop, who also kept the matter secret after consulting with church officials who maintain that the bishops were excused from reporting the abuse to police under the states so-called clergy-penitent privilege.

Adams continued raping MJ for as many as seven more years, into her adolescence, and also abused her infant sister, who was born during that time. He frequently recorded the abuse on video and posted the video on the internet.

Adams was finally arrested by Homeland Security agents in 2017 with no help from the church, after law enforcement officials in New Zealand discovered one of the videos. He died by suicide in custody before he could stand trial.

The Associated Press has obtained nearly 12,000 pages of sealed records from an unrelated child sex abuse lawsuit against the Mormon church in West Virginia. The documents offer the most detailed and comprehensive look yet at the so-called help line Herrod called. Families of survivors who filed the lawsuit said they show its part of a system that can easily be misused by church leaders to divert abuse accusations away from law enforcement and instead to church attorneys who may bury the problem, leaving victims in harms way.

The help line has been criticized by abuse victims and their attorneys for being inadequate to quickly stop abuse and protect victims. Yet the Utah-based faith has stuck by the system despite the criticism and increasing scrutiny from attorneys and prosecutors, including those in the Adams case.

I just think that the Mormon church really sucks. Seriously sucks, said MJ, who is now 16, during an interview with the AP. They are just the worst type of people, from what Ive experienced and what other people have also experienced.

MJ and her adoptive mother asked the AP to use only her initials in part because videos of her abuse posted by her father are still circulating on the internet. The AP does not publish the names of sexual abuse survivors without their consent.

William Maledon, an Arizona attorney representing the bishops and the church in a lawsuit filed by three of the Adams six children, told the AP last month that the bishops were not required to report the abuse.

These bishops did nothing wrong. They didnt violate the law, and therefore they cant be held liable, he said. Maledon referred to the suit as a money grab.

In his AP interview, Maledon also insisted Herrod did not know that Adams was continuing to sexually assault his daughter after learning of the abuse in a single counseling session.

But in the recorded interview with the agent obtained by the AP, Herrod said he asked Leizza Adams in multiple sessions if the abuse was ongoing and asked her, What are we going to do to stop it?

At least for a period of time I assumed they had stopped things, but  and then I never asked if they picked up again.

THE PERFECT LIFESTYLE

The Adams family lived on a lonely dirt road about 8 miles from the center of Bisbee, an old copper-mining town in southeastern Arizona known today for its antique shops and laid-back attitude. Far from prying eyes, the Adams home  a three-bedroom, open concept affair surrounded by desert  was often littered with piles of clothing and containers of lubricant Adams used to sexually abuse his children, according to legal documents reviewed by the AP.

Pauls wife, Leizza, assumed most of the child-rearing responsibilities, including getting their six children off to school and chauffeuring them to church and religious instruction on Sundays. Paul, who worked for the U.S. Border Patrol, spent much of his time online looking at porn, often with his children watching, or wandering the house naked or in nothing but his underwear.

He had a short fuse and would frequently throw things, yell at his wife and beat his kids. He just had this explosive personality, said Shaunice Warr, a Border Patrol agent and a Mormon who worked with Paul and described herself as Leizzas best friend. `He had a horrible temper.

Paul was more relaxed while coaxing his older daughter to hold a smartphone camera and record him while he sexually abused her. He also seemed to revel in the abuse in online chat rooms, where he once bragged that he had the perfect lifestyle because he could have sex with his daughters whenever he pleased, while his wife knew and doesnt care.

He would later tell investigators the abuse was a compulsion he couldnt stop. I got into something too deep that I just couldnt pull myself out of, he said. Im not trying to say the devil made me do it.

The Adams family was deeply involved in the Mormon community, and on Sundays they attended services in Bisbee. So Adams turned to his church, and to Bishop Herrod, when he sought help and revealed his abuse of MJ.

Herrod later told Homeland Security agent Robert Edwards he knew from the start that Leizza Adams was unlikely to stop her husband, after he called her into the counseling sessions. The bishop, who was also Leizzas personal physician, said she seemed pretty emotionally dead when her husband recounted his abuse of their daughter. The bishop also recognized the harm being done to MJ. I doubt (she) will ever do well, he said in his recorded interview with Homeland Security agents.

Herrod also told Edwards that when he called the help line, church officials told him the states clergy-penitent privilege required him to keep Adamss abuse confidential.

But the law required no such thing.

Arizonas child sex abuse reporting law, and similar laws in more than 20 states that require clergy to report child sex abuse and neglect, says that clergy, physicians, nurses, or anyone caring for a child who reasonably believes a child has been abused or neglected has a legal obligation to report the information to police or the state Department of Child Safety. But it also says that clergy who receive information about child neglect or sexual abuse during spiritual confessions may withhold that information from authorities if the clergy determine it is reasonable and necessary under church doctrine.

In 2012, when Herrod rotated out of his position as bishop of the Bisbee ward  a Mormon jurisdiction similar to a Catholic parish  he told incoming Bishop Robert Kim Mauzy about the abuse in the Adams household. Instead of rescuing MJ by reporting the abuse to authorities, Mauzy also kept the information within the church.

In a separate recorded interview with federal agents obtained by the AP, Mauzy said church officials told him he should convene a confidential disciplinary hearing for Adams, after which Adams was ex-communicated in 2013. Mauzy and other church leaders still didnt report Adams to the police.

Two years later, in 2015, Leizza Adams gave birth to a second daughter. It took her husband just six weeks to start sexually assaulting her, recording the abuse, and uploading the videos to the internet.

The revelation that Mormon officials may have directed an effort to conceal years of abuse in the Adams household sparked a criminal investigation of the church by Cochise County Attorney Brian McIntyre, and the civil lawsuit by three of the Adams children.

Whos really responsible for Herrod not disclosing? McIntyre asked in an AP interview. Is it Herrod, who says he followed the church lawyers instruction not to report the abuse to authorities? Or is it the people who gave him that advice?

THE CALL COMES TO MY CELL PHONE

When it comes to child sexual abuse, the Mormon church says the first responsibility of the church in abuse cases is to help those who have been abused and protect those who may be vulnerable to future abuse, according to its 2010 handbook for church leaders. The handbook also says, Abuse cannot be tolerated in any form.

But church officials, from the bishops in the Bisbee ward to officials in Salt Lake City, tolerated abuse in the Adams family for years.

They just let it keep happening, said MJ, in her AP interview. They just said, Hey, lets excommunicate her father. It didnt stop. Lets have them do therapy. It didnt stop. Hey, lets forgive and forget and all this will go away. It didnt go away.

A similar dynamic played out in West Virginia, where church leaders were accused of covering up the crimes committed by a young abuser from a prominent Mormon family even after hed been convicted on child sex abuse charges in Utah. The abuser, Michael Jensen, today is serving a 35- to 75-year prison sentence for abusing two children in West Virginia. Their family, along with others, sued the church and settled out of court for an undisclosed sum.

Child abuse festers and grows in secrecy, said Lynne Cadigan, a lawyer for the Adams children who filed suit. `That is why the mandatory reporting came into effect. Its the most important thing in the world to immediately report to the police.

The lawsuit filed by the three Adams children accuses The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and several members, including Bishops Herrod and Mauzy, of negligence and conspiring to cover up child sex abuse to avoid costly lawsuits and protect the reputation of the church, which relies on proselytizing and tithing to attract new members and raise money. In 2020, the church claimed approximately 16 million members worldwide, most of them living outside the United States.

The failure to prevent or report abuse was part of the policy of the defendants, which was to block public disclosure to avoid scandals, to avoid the disclosure of their tolerance of child sexual molestation and assault, to preserve a false appearance of propriety, and to avoid investigation and action by public authority, including law enforcement, the suit alleges. Plaintiffs are informed and believe that such actions were motivated by a desire to protect the reputation of the defendants.

Very few of the scores of lawsuits against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints mention the help line, in part because details of its operations have been a closely guarded secret. The documents in the sealed court records show how it works.

The help line is certainly there to help  to help the church keep its secrets and to cover up abuse, said Craig Vernon, an Idaho attorney who has filed several sex abuse lawsuits against the church.

Vernon, a former member, routinely demands that the church require bishops to report sex abuse to police or state authorities rather than the help line.

The sealed records say calls to the help line are answered by social workers or professional counselors who determine whether the information they receive is serious enough to be referred to an attorney with Kirton McConkie, a Salt Lake City firm that represents the church.

A document with the heading Protocol for abuse help line calls, which was among the sealed records obtained by the AP, laid out the questions social workers were to ask before determining whether the calls should be referred to the lawyers.

Mormon officials in the West Virginia case said they did not recognize the Protocol and could not authenticate it. But a ranking church official in a separate sex abuse lawsuit in Oregon confirmed that those answering the help line used a written protocol to guide them.

There would be a page containing various topics to discuss and handle, said Harold C. Brown, then director of the churchs Welfare Services Department.

The Protocol instructs those staffing the help line to tell callers they are to use first names only. No identifying information should be given. Under the heading High Risk Cases, it also instructs staffers to ask a series of questions, including whether calls concerned possible abuse by a church leader, an employee, or abuse at a church-sponsored activity.

The protocol advises those taking the calls to instruct a priesthood leader, which includes bishops and stake presidents, to encourage the perpetrator, the victim, or others who know of the abuse to report it. But it also says, in capital letters, that those taking the calls should never advise a priesthood leader to report abuse. Counsel of this nature should come only from legal counsel.

That counsel comes from attorneys from Kirton McConkie, which represents the church.

Joseph Osmond, one of the Kirton McConkie lawyers assigned to take help line calls, said in a sealed deposition that hes always ready to deal with sex abuse complaints.

Wherever I am. The call comes to my cell phone, he said. He then acknowledged that he did not refer calls to a social worker and wouldnt know how to do so.

Osmond declined to comment through church officials. Peter Schofield, a Kirton McConkie lawyer long associated with the help line, also declined to answer questions from the AP.

Maledon, the attorney for the church in the Adams lawsuit, said church clergy or church attorneys have made hundreds of reports of child abuse to civil authorities in Arizona over an unspecified number of years. But he could not say how many calls to the help line were not referred to police or child welfare officials and could not provide a referral rate.

Two church practices, identified in the sealed records, work together to ensure that the contents of all help lines calls remain confidential. First, all records of calls to the help line are routinely destroyed. Those notes are destroyed by the end of every day, said Roger Van Komen, the churchs director of Family Services, in an affidavit included in the sealed records.

Second, church officials say that all calls referred to Kirton McConkie lawyers are covered by attorney-client privilege and remain out of the reach of prosecutors and victims attorneys. The church has always regarded those communications between its lawyers and local leaders as attorney-client privileged, said Paul Rytting, the director of Risk Management, in a sealed affidavit.

AN OMINOUS TIME

Mormon leaders established the help line in 1995 and it operated not within its Department of Family Services, but instead in its Office of Risk Management, whose role is to protect the church and members from injury and liability in an array of circumstances, including fires, explosions, hazardous chemical spills and severe weather. The department ultimately reports to the First Presidency, the three officials at the very top of the church hierarchy, according to records in the sealed documents.

Risk management also tracks all sex abuse lawsuits against the church, according to a sealed affidavit by Dwayne Liddell, a past director of the department who helped establish the help line. He said members of the churchs First Presidency knew the details of the help line.

I have been in those type of meetings where  the training of ecclesiastical leaders (and) the establishment of a help line have been discussed, Liddell said. When asked who attended the meetings, he answered, Members of the First Presidency and the presiding bishopric, or the top leaders of the church.

Before establishing the help line in 1995, the Mormon church simply instructed bishops to comply with local child sex abuse reporting laws.

At the time, child sex abuse lawsuits were on the rise and juries were awarding victims millions of dollars. The Mormon church is largely self-insured, leaving it especially vulnerable to costly lawsuits.

There is nothing inconsistent between identifying cases that may pose litigation risks to the church and complying with reporting obligations, church lawyers said in a sealed legal filing.

But one affidavit in the sealed records which repeatedly says the church condemns child sexual abuse, also suggests the church is more concerned about the spiritual well-being of perpetrators than the physical and emotional well-being of young victims, who also may be members of the faith.

Disciplinary proceedings are subject to the highest confidentiality possible, said Rytting. If members had any concerns that their disciplinary files could be read by a secular judge or attorneys or be presented to a jury as evidence in a public trial, their willingness to confess and repent and for their souls to be saved would be seriously compromised.

A GLOBAL INVESTIGATION

In 2016 police in New Zealand arrested a 47-year-old farm worker on child pornography charges and found a nine-minute video on his cell phone, downloaded from the internet, showing a man in his 30s raping a 10-year-old girl.

A global search for the rapist and his victim was on. It started with Interpol and led to the U.S. State Department, where investigators using facial recognition technology matched the rapist with a passport card photo of a U.S. Border Patrol employee living in Bisbee, Arizona, according to a Homeland Security synopsis obtained by the AP.

Agents rushed to the Naco, Arizona, Border Station and arrested Adams, then a lanky, bearded mission support specialist with the Border Patrol. After some coaxing, Adams admitted to raping MJ and to sexually assaulting her younger sister, and to posting video of the assaults on the internet. When agents raided his home, they seized phones and computers holding more than 4,000 photos and nearly 1,000 videos depicting child sex abuse, many featuring the Adams daughters.

But the nine-minute video stood out. This video is one of the worst Ive ever seen, Homeland Security agent Edwards later testified, adding that haunting dialogue between Adams and his older daughter helped make the video stand out in my mind and continue to stand out in my mind.

That video represented nine minutes and 14 seconds in seven years of continual and unnecessary trauma for MJ  and a lifetime of abuse for her tiny sister  while Bishops Herrod and Mauzy and church representatives in Salt Lake City stood by.

After Paul Adams died by suicide, Leizza Adams pleaded no contest to child sex abuse charges and served two-and-a-half years in state prison. Three of the Adams children went to live with members of Leizzas extended family in California. The other three were taken in by local families.

THE SURVIVORS

MJs little sister was only 2 when she met her adoptive mother for the first time. The toddler wrapped her arms and legs around Miranda Whitworths head, buried her face in her neck, and refused to look up to say good-bye to members of Leizzas family. It was the craziest thing, said Whitworth who, with her husband, Matthew, welcomed the toddler into their family. It was like when you see a baby monkey or baby gorilla cling to their mother, and they just wont let go.

Over the next few days and weeks, the Whitworths would see additional markers of the unfathomable abuse the toddler endured at the hands of her father  much of it recorded on video. She would howl in terror when any man attempted to touch her, whether it was Matthew or the family physician. The nurse was fine but the minute the doctor walked in she climbed onto me and started screaming bloody murder, Miranda said.

The 2-year-old was also terrified of the water, which made bathing an ear-splitting ordeal. She wouldnt tolerate anything wrapped around her wrists. And at church, she would run and hide behind Miranda whenever anyone greeted her by an old family nickname.

When they took in the toddler, neither Miranda nor Matthew knew very much about what had happened to her. But while sitting in on Leizza Adamss sentencing hearing, they learned about the repeated rapes, the videos, and the fact that church bishops knew about the abuse of the older daughter and did nothing to stop it.

The Whitworths were converts to the Mormon faith and, like many new followers of a religion, they were especially enthusiastic about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In particular, they appreciated the efforts Mormons make to help fellow church members in times of need through church organizations established to give special attention to women, teens and children.

Its all about family, Miranda said. Thats one of the things we absolutely loved.

But after learning about what Adams did to their new daughter, and the failure of the church to stop him, the scales fell from their eyes. We decided to remove our records from the church, said Matthew Whitworth. I personally couldnt continue to provide tithing money to a church that would allow young children to be abused and not do anything to prevent it.

Unlike the Whitworths, Nancy Salminen has never been a member of the Mormon church. But as a special needs teacher and a rape victim herself, she has a special affinity for MJ and others like her. Over the last five years, she has opened her home to 17 girls and boys who needed a safe place to stay. Her house is a modest, ranch-style structure she bought out of foreclosure.

Everythings a little broken here and thats perfect because so are we, she said.

Salminen said she met MJ after receiving an urgent call on a Friday evening to rescue a 12-year-old from another family. She was pretty scared and pretty confused when I picked her up, Salminen recalled. She spent a lot of time in her closet in her room when we got home, but we got to know each other and got to like each other.

Like the Whitworths, Salminen knew very little about what MJ had endured until Leizza Adamss sentencing hearing.

What I heard made me want to throw up, she said. And the more I learned the more I wanted to help her fight this fight that she didnt even know about.

Safely settled in Salminens household  which today includes a foster girl Salminen also plans to adopt  MJ has been transformed from a victim of unimaginable abuse to a bubbly 16-year-old who plays in the high school band and proudly dons a crisp, new uniform for her job at a fast-food restaurant.

She had every excuse to fail and to just fold into herself and run away, Salminen said. But instead, she came back stronger than anyone Ive ever known.

So strong that she appears eager to play an active role in the battle she and her two siblings are waging against The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I just want them to do what theyre supposed to do and report to the police, MJ said.

The adoptive parents of the third Adams child who has filed suit declined to speak to the AP about the case. Like MJ, Miranda and Matthew Whitworth said they joined the lawsuit against the church on behalf of their young daughter not in hopes of a payday, but to change church policy so that any instance of child sexual abuse is immediately reported to civil authorities. We just dont understand why theyre paying all these lawyers to fight this, Matthew Whitworth said. Just change the policy.

THE PRIVILEGE

That policy is the key to the churchs defense. In a recent filing asking a Superior Court judge to dismiss the case, Maledon and other lawyers for the church said the case hinges entirely on whether Arizonas child abuse reporting statute required two church bishops  to report to authorities confidential confessions made to them by plaintiffs father.

Whatever moral or public policy arguments one could make that the church should have told authorities that Paul Adams was raping his daughters are irrelevant, the lawyers argued. Arizonas reporting statute broadly exempts confidential communications with clergy, as determined by the clergyman himself, according to the church motion to dismiss the case. Reasonable people can debate whether this is the best public policy choice. But that is not an issue for a jury or this court.

Bishop Herrod, in his recorded interview, said church officials told him he had to keep what Adams told him confidential or he could be sued if he went to authorities.

But McIntyre, the Cochise County attorney, said thats false, noting the Arizona reporting law says that anyone reporting a belief that child sex abuse occurred is immune from any civil or criminal liability.

Aside from the legal arguments over whether Bishops Herrod and Mauzy were excused from their reporting obligations under the clergy-penitent privilege, critics of the inaction by the two bishops and the broader church have raised ethical issues.

Gerard Moretz, a seasoned child sex abuse investigator for the Pima County, Arizona, Sheriffs Department and an expert witness for the Adams children, is one of them.

What aspect of your religious practice are you advancing if you dont report something like this? he asked.

___

Associated Press editor Brady McCombs in Salt Lake City and investigative researcher Randy Herschaft in New York contributed to this story.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Numbers
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Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Japans MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings, will spend about $400 million to buy U.S. reinsurance broker Transverse, the Nikkei business daily reported on Sunday.

The Japanese property insurer aims to gain know-how of the reinsurance broker business, which could help with the expansion of an insurance market specialized in fields such as cybercrime, the Nikkei said.

Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance may pay up to an additional $150 million, depending on the U.S. companys earnings after the deal, the Nikkei said, adding that an announcement was expected by the end of the month.

MS&AD said in a statement it was considering various business investment opportunities, including those reported in the media, but nothing had been decided.

It said it would announce anything that needed to be disclosed promptly when it was decided.

Transverse, established in 2018 and based in New Jersey, acts as a broker for reinsurance across the United States, receiving about 5% of insurance premiums as commission by connecting insurers and reinsurance companies, according to the Nikkei.

In the United States, growing risk of natural disasters, terrorism and cybercrime have led to an increase of sales of policies provided by insurers that specialize in certain fields such as transport and medicine. But insurance against such risks as cyberattacks has not become widespread in Japan, the Nikkei said.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Agencies Reinsurance
New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles!

Charlotte-based Truist Insurance Holdings, one of the largest insurance brokerages in the United States, has agreed to acquire BenefitMall, the countrys largest wholesale benefits general agency.

Truist officials said in a news release that the purchase will bring in an extra $150 million a year for Truists wholesale division. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. The deal should close in the third quarter of this year, Truist said.

Through a network of some 20,000 retail brokers, BenefitMall, based in Dallas, provides employee benefits to more than 140,000 small and medium-sized businesses across the country, the news release noted.

Truist is a subsidiary of publicly traded Truist Financial Corp. Truist Holdings subsidiaries include McGriff Insurance Services, Inc.; CRC Insurance Services, Inc.; Crump Life Insurance Services, Inc.; AmRisc, LLC; and its Insurance Services companies (AFCO Credit Corp., CAFO Inc., and Kensington Vanguard Land Services).

BenefitMall will become part of the CRC Insurance division, a spokesperson said.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Texas
Supporters of a recreational marijuana initiative have asked the Arkansas Supreme Court to order election officials to put their measure on the November ballot.

Responsible Growth Arkansas asked the court last week to reverse the State Board of Election Commissioners rejection of the popular name and ballot title for the proposed constitutional amendment. The group had submitted more than enough signatures to qualify, but the proposal also needed the approval of the board to appear on the ballot.

Board members on Wednesday criticized the measure, saying it did not fully describe the proposals impact. The lawsuit said the board used an overly stringent approach that violates the states constitution. It also challenges a 2019 law that empowers the board to certify ballot measures.

Before that law, ballot measures had to be reviewed by the attorney general before petitions could be circulated.

Arkansas voters in 2016 approved a constitutional amendment legalizing medical marijuana.

Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Cannabis Arkansas
A Jacksonville wood crate and pallet manufacturers history of workplace safety violations continues after federal inspectors found the company exposed workers to amputation hazards in its February 2022 inspection.

The U.S. Department of Labors Occupational Safety and Health Administration opened an inspection on Feb. 8, 2022, at M&H Crates Inc. after receiving a complaint. OSHA determined the company failed to develop, document or use lockout/tagout procedures to prevent sudden machine start-ups. They also discovered the company failed to ensure required machine guarding, which exposed workers to hazards, including amputation. In the manufacturing industry, machine guarding violations are OSHAs most frequently cited infraction.

OSHA cited M&H Crates for serious and repeat violations for machine guarding hazards, housekeeping issues and failing to provide hearing protection as required. The company faces $248,866 in proposed penalties.

M&H Crates Inc. continues to expose its employees to dangerous workplace hazards by ignoring required federal safety standards, explained OSHA Area Director Basil Singh in Dallas. These safeguards can be the difference between ending a shift safely and suffering a serious and life-altering injury. M&H Crates must develop and implement a company culture where worker safety and health is a priority.

Prior to its recent inspection, OSHA cited M&H Crates following inspections in 2012, 2014 and 2020. In June 2020, inspectors examined safety failures after an employee cutting pallet boards suffered a finger amputation while using an unguarded band saw.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of its citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHAs area director, or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

Source: OSHA

Topics Texas Workers' Compensation Manufacturing
In this handout photo taken from video and released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Sunday, Aug. 7, a rocket fragment after shelling is seen near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station in territory under Russian military control, southeastern Ukraine. The Russian military said that Ukrainian shelling of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant on Sunday caused a power surge and fire and forced staff to lower output from two reactors. AP-Yonhap



Kyiv and Moscow traded blame on Monday for the weekend shelling of Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear complex amid international alarm that their battle for control of the plant could trigger catastrophe.



Calling any attack on a nuclear plant "suicidal", United Nations chief Antonio Guterres demanded U.N. nuclear inspectors be given access to Zaporizhzhia, the largest complex of its kind in Europe.



Russia's invading forces seized the southern Ukrainian region containing Zaporizhzhia in March, when the site was struck without damage to its reactors. The area, including the city of Kherson, is now the target of a Ukrainian counter-offensive.



Ukraine appealed for the area around the complex to be demilitarized and for the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog, to be let in. Russia said it too favored an IAEA visit, which it accused Ukraine of blocking while trying to "take Europe hostage" by shelling the plant.



Ukraine blamed Russia for weekend attacks around the complex, which is still being run by Ukrainian technicians. It said three radiation sensors were damaged and two workers injured by shrapnel.



As of Monday morning, the plant appeared to still be running, said Petro Kotin, head of Ukraine's state nuclear power company Energoatom. He said 500 Russian soldiers and 50 pieces of heavy machinery, including tanks, trucks and armored infantry vehicles were at the site.



The Ukrainian staff at the plant had nowhere to shelter, he added.



Reuters could not independently verify either side's account.



Kotin called for peacekeepers to run the Zaporizhzhia site, flagging the risk of shells hitting its six containers of highly radioactive spent nuclear fuel. In an evening video shared online, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called for new Western sanctions on Russia's nuclear industry "for creating the threat of a nuclear disaster."



Dr. Mark Wenman, a nuclear expert at Imperial College London, played down the risk of a major incident, saying the Zaporizhzhia reactors were relatively robust and the spent fuel well protected.



"Although it may seem worrying, and any fighting on a nuclear site would be illegal ...the likelihood of a serious nuclear release is still small," he said in a statement.





A general view of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station in territory under Russian military control, southeastern Ukraine, is seen in this handout photo taken from video and released by Russian Defense Ministry Press Service on Aug. 7. AP-Yonhap
New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles!

Virtus LLC, a Kansas City-based insurance brokerage and consulting firm, has joined forces with Kemmons Wilson Insurance Group, a Memphis company that specializes in insuring hospitality and hotel firms.

The combined firm will have more than 100 employees and a book of business of more than $250 million in premium and $20 million in revenue, which places Virtus in the Top 100 insurance brokerages in the U.S., the company said in a news release. Terms of the merger were not disclosed.

Virtus was founded in 2013. Andrew Gray is CEO.

Kemmons Wilson has been around since 1952, when it was formed to insure Kemmons Wilsons hotel properties, the company said. The firm is now a full-service agency focused on the hospitality sector. Cindy Klatt is vice president.

Topics Agencies Tennessee
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. acquired Denver, Colorado-based Denver Agency.

Denver Agency is a personal lines-focused insurance agency that specializes in serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients throughout the U.S. The agency also offers commercial property/casualty services for those clients.

Eric Gordon, Chip McKeever, Katy Hyman Roth and their team will continue to operate from their current location under the direction of Jeff Saunders, head of Gallaghers US personal lines business, and Jay Eshelman, head of Gallagher Select, its U.S. property/casualty operations for small businesses.

Arthur J. Gallagher is an insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Colorado A.J. Gallagher
Gardai are seeking the public's help locating an 11-year-old girl from Ukraine who has been missing since this morning.

Marharyta Konissarova has been missing from her home in Balbriggan since around 10am.
A 43-year-old mother of three has appeared before Cork District Court charged with making nine false statements and five false reports to gardai relating to nine named individuals.

Detective Sergeant James Buckley gave evidence of the arrest, charge and caution of Sonya Egan of the Lawn, Lios Cara, Killeens, Co Cork.

Dt Sgt Buckley said that Ms Egan made no response when the charges were put to her under caution at 11.10am on Monday at Anglesea Street Garda Station in Cork City. The court heard that there was no garda objection to bail in the case provided that certain stringent bail conditions are met by the defendant.

Bail terms

Ms Egan is required not to have any contact  direct or indirect  with the named persons who consist of six men and three women. She has also been ordered to refrain from using social media under her name or any other other persons name.

Ms Egan is also required to make no public mention of the injured parties or to discuss the injured parties with any person by email or other means of communication with the exception of her legal representation.

The defendant was also ordered to have no contact indirectly or directly with members of the garda investigation team, relating to the charges before the courts or garda members assigned to member-in-charge duties or assisting the member in charge of the Bridewell Garda Station, Cork on September 2 and 3, 2021.

It is alleged that the offences occurred in Dublin garda stations and in Mayfield Garda Station, Anglesea Street Garda Station, the Bridewell, Gurranabraher and Watercourse Road in Cork City. The alleged offences fall under Section 12 (a) of the Criminal Law Act, 1976 and involve multiple charges in relation to a number of people.

Sgt Gearoid Davis told Judge Treasa Kelly that the DPP had directed prosecution by indictment at Cork Circuit Criminal Court or that Ms Egan be sent forward for sentencing at the same court provided a guilty plea is entered in the case.

Judge Kelly warned Ms Egan that she had to obey the strict conditions of her bail pending her next court appearance at Cork District Court on September 14 next. The Book of Evidence will be served on that date.

Free legal aid was granted to Ms Egan via solicitor, Clodagh McCarthy, of Frank Buttimer solicitors in Cork City. Ms Egan was remanded on bail until her next court appearance.
Burma ASEAN Envoy Says More Executions Would Put Future Myanmar Visits in Doubt

Prak Sokhonn during the press conference on Saturday / ASEAN

The Southeast Asian regional special envoy for Myanmar warned he would reconsider his planned visit to the country if the ruling generals execute more political prisoners.

As the special envoy of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for Myanmar, Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn plans to visit Myanmar for the third time in early September. He is assigned to mediate peace in the country, which has been in political and social turmoil since last years coup.

The junta executed four anti-regime democracy activists last month, defying international pleas for restraint, including from Cambodia, which currently holds the blocs rotating chair. In the wake of the hangings, the regime said there would be more executions, as the junta currently holds more than 70 political prisoners sentenced to death for their anti-regime activism.

If there are more executions, I will reconsider [the planned visit] and all nine ASEAN Foreign Ministers agree on this position, he said during a press conference on Saturday. ASEAN has 10 members including Myanmar.

In his capacity as the ASEAN chair, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said this year the bloc may rethink its approach to the Myanmar crisis if the regime continues to execute prisoners.

If more prisoners are to be executed, we will be forced to rethink our role vis a vis ASEANs Five-Point Consensus, he said.

Myanmar has been a thorn in ASEANs side, as its military rulers have yet to honor a peace planknown as the Five-Point Consensusthat the bloc adopted last year. The plan calls for an immediate cessation of violence and meetings with all stakeholders to bring peace to the country. So far the regime has killed more than 2,000 people.

I am considering paying my third visit to Myanmar in early September if between now and then there is some positive progress there, Prak Sokhonn said.

ASEAN has already punished the Myanmar junta for its inaction on the peace plan, declining to invite its officials to the blocs meetings.

At a meeting last week, ASEAN foreign ministers decided the generals would not be invited to ASEAN meetings until they achieve the goals set out in the consensus.

[Myanmars] generals must act in a manner that demonstrates progress, so we will be able to make decisions, Prak Sokonn said.

The envoy visited Myanmar in March and May. So far, he has only met with the regimes leadership and their handpicked representatives. He still hasnt been allowed to meet the countrys ousted and detained popular leader, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.

At the same time, ASEAN has been criticized by rights groups and regime opponents for failing to make any real progress on the Myanmar issue more than one year on.

Following the recent foreign ministers meeting, the bloc acknowledged in a joint statement on Friday the lack of progress on its five-point crisis plan.

Prak Sokhonn dampened expectations for major progress in the short term, saying even Superman cannot solve the Myanmar problem at the press conference on Saturday.

Issues cannot be solved by one meeting, by two meetings, by many years of meeting, he said.
Burma Mounting Proof of Crimes Against Humanity in Myanmar: UN Probe

Burnt vehicles are seen after a regime attack in December 2021 in Hpruso Township, Kayah State. / AFP

GENEVA, SwitzerlandUN investigators on Tuesday reported mounting evidence of crimes against humanity, including murder, torture and sexual violence, committed in Myanmar since last years military coup.

The United Nations Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) said women and children were particularly being targeted.

There are ample indications that since the military takeover in February 2021, crimes have been committed in Myanmar on a scale and in a manner that constitutes a widespread and systematic attack against a civilian population, the investigators said in a statement.

Myanmars military seized power on Feb. 1 last year, ousting the civilian government and arresting de facto leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.

The junta has waged a bloody crackdown on dissent, with the violence leaving more than 2,100 civilians dead and nearly 15,000 arrested, according to a local monitoring group.

The investigation team warned in its annual report that over the 12 months to the end of June, the scope of potential international crimes taking place in Myanmar has broadened dramatically.

The IIMM was established by the UN Human Rights Council in September 2018 to collect evidence of the most serious international crimes and prepare files for criminal prosecution.

It cooperates with the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court among others.

Sexual crimes

Perpetrators of these crimes need to know that they cannot continue to act with impunity, said IIMM chief Nicholas Koumjian.

The report said that according to the evidence collected, Sexual and gender-based crimes, including rape and other forms of sexual violence, and crimes against children have been perpetrated by members of the security forces and armed groups.

Koumjian said the investigators were focusing in particular on crimes committed against women and children, which are amongst the gravest international crimes, but they are also historically under-reported and under-investigated.

Children in Myanmar had been killed, tortured and arbitrarily detained, including as proxies for their parents, the report found.

They had also been subjected to sexual violence and conscripted and trained by security forces and armed groups.

The team, which has never been permitted to visit Myanmar, said it had nonetheless now collected nearly 3 million information items, including interview statements, documents, photographs and geospatial imagery.

The investigators said the evidence they had collected indicated that several armed conflicts are ongoing and intensifying on the territory of Myanmar.

They said they were drawing up case files on specific incidents of war crimes committed in the context of those armed conflicts, including intentional attacks directed at civilians, indiscriminate killings and the widespread burning of villages and towns.

Nature of crimes expanding

Other UN experts and the IIMM itself had already warned that war crimes and crimes against humanity were being committed.

But on Tuesday, the investigators cautioned that more and more regions were becoming engulfed in the violence, and that the nature of the potential criminality is also expanding.

They pointed to the juntas execution of four political prisoners last month, marking the first executions in the country in decades.

The IIMM also highlighted the ongoing plight of Myanmars Muslim Rohingya minority, five years after a bloody 2017 crackdown that resulted in the displacement of nearly a million people.

Most of the around 850,000 Rohingya who were driven into camps in neighboring Bangladesh are still there, while another 600,000 are in Myanmars Rakhine State.

While the Rohingya consistently express their desire for a safe and dignified return to Myanmar, this will be very difficult to achieve unless there is accountability for the atrocities committed against them, including through prosecutions of the individuals most responsible for those crimes, Koumjian said.

Last month, the International Court of Justice in The Hague threw out objections from Myanmars military rulers and decided to hear a landmark case accusing the country of genocide against the Rohingya.
Burma Myanmar Juntas Moves to Ease Currency Rules Wont Help in Long Run: Experts

A clerk counts US dollar notes at a money changer in Yangon. / The Irrawaddy

Fridays decision by the Myanmar juntas central bank to weaken its official kyat-US dollar exchange rate and ease forced-conversion regulations for exporters will provide temporary relief at best for the crisis-hit Myanmar economy, according to financial analysts.

The Central Bank of Myanmar raised its official exchange rate from 1,850 kyats per dollar to 2,100 kyats on Friday. In a directive dated the same day, central bank chairman U Than Nyein said export companies would now only be required to convert 65 percent of foreign currency earnings into kyats at the central bank rate, down from 100 percent previously. They have 30 days to use the remaining 35 percent to purchase imported goods or make other trade or non-trade cross-border payments. After 30 days, if it is not used, the remaining 35 percent of export proceeds must be converted at the official central bank rate, according to sources in the export/import community.

However, the move has not had much of an impact on the black market rate, which fell from around 2,700 kyats per dollar on Friday to around 2,550 kyats on Monday. The central bank has prohibited individuals and companies from trading US dollars since the coup in February 2021. The situation appeared the same for other currencies and gold prices on Monday.

The recent erratic policy shifts by the central bank have made the situation worse for Myanmars economy, which has already been battered by the countrys post-coup crisis.

Last month, the central bank ordered borrowers to suspend repayment of foreign loans in a measure intended to conserve foreign currency reserves.

In April, it ordered all businesses to convert all foreign currency earnings into kyats within one day at the official rate of 1,850 kyats, well below the informal market rate of over 2,200 kyats.

The actions only further eroded confidence in the kyat and prompted people to buy other assets like US dollars, other foreign currencies, gold, cars and property, leading to a shortage of dollars in the market.

Why has the central bank changed its policy?

With the central bank buying dollar earnings from exports at the official rate of 1,850 kyatswhile the informal market rate stands at about 2,500 kyatsexport companies last month began setting up companies in countries like Thailand and the United Arab Emirates, smuggling export products abroad and receiving payment in US dollars in foreign bank accounts.

This deprived the central bank of taxes and US dollars, so I think they eased the regulations as a result, said a local market analyst.

The central bank has set its exchange rate at 2,100 kyats in an effort to encourage exporters to go through legal channels, he added.

It is a temporary solution to the problem of the kyats depreciation. A free-float dollar exchange market and [permitting] unlimited selling of earnings would improve the situation, said a local market analyst.

However, the Myanmar junta is currently battling an armed revolution and renewed conflicts with ethnic armed groups triggered by the military coup. Needing US dollars to fund its war, it is unlikely to lift the restrictions totally anytime soon.

The World Bank projects Myanmars economic growth at 3 percent in the fiscal year ending September 2022, following an 18 percent contraction last year, with firm downside risks.

Junta spokesperson Zaw Min Tun said at a press conference on July 26 that the regime had plenty of US dollars in hand, so it wasnt worried about a possible financial crisis like the one that recently engulfed Sri Lanka.

One financial analyst who asked for anonymity said the juntas ad hoc actions would not achieve financial stability, as they did not address the main problems of a large budget deficit, banking sector instability and a decline in foreign direct investment, which had sapped the countrys supply of dollars.

The World Bank warned in a policy note issued on July 8 that the political and economic chaos since the coup had destabilized the financial system. Recent policy shifts are likely to have longer-term effects: inhibiting potential growth, worsening macroeconomic instability, and impairing the efficient allocation of resources, the bank wrote in its policy note in July 2022.
Burma NLD Minister Jailed by Myanmar Regime Hospitalized in Yangon

Ousted NLD religious affairs and culture minister U Aung Ko at a literary festival in 2017. / The Irrawaddy

U Aung Ko, the religious affairs and culture minister of the ousted National League for Democracy (NLD) government, was admitted to Yangons Insein Hospital on Monday with heart problems.

The 74-year-old was jailed by the junta and is serving a six year sentence at Insein Prison, where he has been suffering from a rapid heartbeat. After he failed to respond to treatment at the prison hospital, he was taken for a diagnosis at Insein Hospital, a hospital source who wished to remain anonymous told The Irrawaddy.

The former brigadier general was a long-time member of the Central Executive Committee of the Myanmar militarys proxy Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP). He was appointed as deputy minister of religious affairs under the former military regime, and was a Lower House USDP lawmaker during the quasi-civilian U Thein Sein administration.

After the NLDs landslide 2015 general election victory, U Aung Ko was appointed as religious affairs minister in the NLD government. He is said to be close to deposed NLD leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.

A graduate of the 11th intake of the Defense Services Academy, U Aung Ko abolished the Association for Protection of Race and Religion, a pro-military nationalist group better known by its Burmese acronym Ma Ba Tha, during his time as religious affairs minister. Ma Ba Tha emerged during the U Thein Sein administration and its abolishment attracted ire from the military.

The junta filed corruption charges against U Aung Ko under Section 55 of the Anti-Corruption Law following its coup in February last year.

In March of this year, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison with labor. Coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing commuted his prison sentence by half in April.
Burma Over 2,500 Myanmar Junta Forces Killed This Year in Karen State

Cobra Column fighters pose on July 13 with captured weapons and ammunition after a battle near Thone Htat Kwe in Karen State's Myawaddy Township. / Cobra Column

More than 2,500 Myanmar junta troops and members of the pro-regime Border Guard Force (BGF)  equivalent to one division of the Myanmar military  have been killed since January of this year in clashes with ethnic Karen fighters in Southeast Myanmars Karen State.

The Karen National Union (KNU) said in its monthly report released on Tuesday that its armed wings, the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) and the Karen National Defense Organization (KNDO), and allied resistance forces including Cobra Column clashed with junta troops more than eight times a day in July.

There were 259 clashes in July, with 386 junta and Border Guard Force deaths and 280 wounded, according to the KNU. 12 resistance fighters were killed and 26 injured in the clashes. However, The Irrawaddy has been unable to verify casualty numbers independently.

The KNU estimated that there were 399 regime deaths in January, 311 in February, 429 in March, 356 in April, 303 in May, 410 in June and 386 in July, a total of 2,594 junta forces killed in just seven months.

A Myanmar military division totals around 2,500 in the field, meaning that the junta has lost the equivalent of a division so far this year in Karen State fighting.

The fiercest clashes were at Thone Htat Kwe on the Myawaddy-Wa Lay road on July 12, when a military regime battalion commander and deputy battalion commander were killed and an entire column of No. 44 Light Infantry Division (LID) was either killed, wounded or fled without their weapons.

Resistance group Cobra Column released photos of seized weapons and No. 44 LID uniforms. RPG rockets, mines, grenades, 40mm artillery shells, bullets, guns and electronic jamming devices were among the captured equipment seen in the photos.

On July 8, Cobra Column killed five soldiers from No. 44 LID, including a captain, who were on their way to reinforce the strategic Ukayit Hta outpost.

Another five junta soldiers contacted Cobra Column and defected from the Myanmar military on July 11. The defectors stated in videos that they are in their late teens and early twenties and were previously based in Rakhine State.

Karen fighters captured the Maw Khee military camp in the Dooplaya territory of the KNLAs Brigade 6 on March 22, and also seized the regimes Thay Baw Boe camp on May 18.

In June, the KNDO and its allies seized Waw Lay police station, where junta troops were based. Five regime soldiers were reportedly captured and nine detained resistance fighters were freed.

Padoh Saw Taw Nee, the head of the KNUs Foreign Affairs Department, told The Irrawaddy in June that the combat ability and will to win of junta soldiers has declined dramatically compared to previous decades of fighting with Myanmar military troops.

As its losses mount, the regime has aggressively escalated its violence against civilians across Karen State with indiscriminate air and artillery strikes, the torching of villages, the arbitrary killing of civilians and using them as human shields.

At least 19 civilians were killed in July and another 26 wounded, according to the KNU.

Around 200,000 displaced civilians in Karen State are in desperate need of emergency aid, the International Karen Organization said in July.
Burma Two Myanmar Military Bases Seized by Resistance in Kachin State

KIA troops. Photo- Jinghpaw Movement

The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and Peoples Defense Forces (PDF) seized two Myanmar military camps on Monday in Hpakant Township, Kachin State.

At 1am on early Monday morning, a combined force of KIA and PDFs raided the military regime camp at Sezin Village in Hpakant and a nearby pro-junta militia camp in Shwe Pyi Myint Village, according to local sources and Kachin media outlets.

The militia base in Shwe Pyi Myint village is home to the Shanni Nationalities Army (SNA), an ethnic Lisu militia allied to the regime, and junta troops, according to a source close to the Kachin Regional PDF.

Local media reported that the militia camp was seized after a four hour firefight. However, casualties on both sides are unknown.

The military camps were occupied. There were casualties. But the detailed situation there is still unknown, said the source close to the Kachin Regional PDF.

Spokespersons for the KIA and SNA confirmed the clashes with Kachin media.

On Tuesday, the KIA and junta troops continued to clash in Shwe Pyi Myint Village, said local media.

In late July, several days of intense fighting in Hpakant between regime forces and a combined force of the KIA and PDFs led to the junta launching heavy airstrikes in the area.

Currently, the KIA is reportedly coordinating attacks with PDFs in both Kachin State and upper Sagaing Region.

Regime forces are now facing near-daily attacks from PDFs and ethnic armed organizations across the country.
Taiwanese soldiers fire artillery during a live-fire drill in Pingtung, Taiwan, Aug. 9. Taiwan's military held a live fire drill to simulate defense of the country against a Chinese invasion, following the China's recent live fire drill in the six maritime areas around Taiwan. EPA-Yonhap



Taiwan's military began a live-fire artillery drill Tuesday simulating a defense of the island against an attack after days of massive Chinese military exercises, an AFP journalist at the site of the exercise said.

Lou Woei-jye, spokesman for Taiwan's Eighth Army Corps, confirmed that the drills had started in the southern county of Pingtung shortly after 0040 GMT with the firing of target flares and artillery.



The drill will end at around 0130 GMT, he added.



China launched its largest-ever war games around Taiwan last week in a furious response to a visit by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the highest-ranking US official to visit the self-ruled island in decades.



Taiwan lives under the constant threat of invasion by China, which views its neighbor as part of Chinese territory to be reclaimed one day, by force if necessary.






Aussie Broadband has launched its new Partner Program to allow resellers from across Australia access to its services.

Aussie Broadband stresses that the Partner Program is different from the companys Wholesale or White Label offerings as reselling is all about people selling Aussies branded services.

Aussie Broadband general manager channel partnerships Tony Nikolovski said the program would give the company greater reach in the market and offer greater benefits for partners.

What this program allows us to do is partner with people in Australia to help sell our services in areas where they have reach and relationships that we dont. The partnerships will essentially create consideration and interest for Aussie Broadband where previously we were not able to do that ourselves, said Nikolovski.

Our partners will also reap the benefits. They will have the ability to build and customise their own promotions to suit their target customers, have access to a self-management portal for service visibility, and also have the support of a dedicated partner manager.

The company has already partnered with iSelect and Union Shopper among other organisations.

Weve had further expressions of interest already, but we want to make sure that were partnering where it makes sense to do so and where we can add value to our partners customers, he said.

iSelect executive (commercial) Justin Logan said the self-management offered under Aussies Partner Program was a big drawcard for the company.

iSelect is pleased to be trialling Aussie Broadbands new Partner Program. The ability for us to self-manage our partner account, including promotions and sales, will increase efficiencies, from the initial customer interaction right through to activation, commented Logan.

Reconciliation and payment processes are also greatly improved via a sales management tool. This allows regular status reports to be securely shared and accessed directly by iSelects finance team, concluded Logan.

This first appeared in the subscription newsletter CommsWire on 8 August 2022.
Swedish telecommunications equipment provider Ericsson has been hit with a lawsuit by Americans who claim its alleged payment of bribes to Al Qaeda and Islamic State in Iraq also helped the two groups to stage terrorist attacks.

The Wall Street Journal reported on 5 August that more than 500 American service members and civilians were involved in the suit.

This is the second lawsuit that Ericsson is facing after its alleged payment of bribes in Iraq was revealed in The Guardian which based its report on leaks from the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. Similar reports were also carried by the BBC and the Washington Post.

That case was reported in March and was filed by investors who claimed the company had misled them over its dealings in Iraq. Reuters said the filing, by a law company known as Pomeranz, claimed the company had misled investors by exaggerating the extent to which it had eliminated the use of bribes.

Ericsson has made no public comment about the latest court case. Contacted for comment, an Ericsson spokesperson told iTWire: "Ericsson notes the filing of a plaintiffs action in federal court in the District of Columbia and will zealously defend against this action. Any effort to connect Ericsson to the actions described in the complaint will fail on the merits."

The American plaintiffs filed their case under the Anti-terrorism Act of 1990 which permits terrorism victims to go after damages in American courts; the Act also allows companies and individuals who are supporting terrorism to be targeted.

According to the WSJ report, the plaintiffs accused Ericsson of paying money to groups in order to facilitate business activities.

The payments saved Ericsson money, the complaint said. It was cheaper to pay off Al Qaeda and Islamic State than to invest in the security necessary to mitigate the terrorists threats.

In March, Ericsson said it had been told by the US Department of Justice that a disclosure it had made about its dealings in Iraq before cutting a deal with the DoJ was insufficient.

The Ericsson spokesperson was asked about the investors' lawsuit as well, but made no comment about it.
MSP data protection solutions and services provider Probax has launched Honeycomb Object Storage as a service powered by Wasabi.

Probax says the purpose-built Object Storage solution was designed for MSPs that need secure and simplified long-term AWS S3 compatible cloud storage for their customer data.

With no egress or API request charges, faster performance than public cloud and bulletproof ransomware protection, Probax claims it makes object storage simple and can be paid easily.

Long-term data retention is now easier and more cost-effective than ever for MSPs (managed service providers), commented Probax chief operating officer Sam Meegahage.

With industry-specific security and compliance, guaranteed availability, and all-inclusive pricing, MSPs can get an upper hand with Probaxs Object Storage as a Service. This disruptive cloud storage solution opens up the floodgates for data  partners and customers can store more data, across multiple locations and environments.

Available to MSPs in North America, Europe, Australia and Singapore, Probaxs Object Storage solution contributes to Wasabis expansion.

Honeycomb Object Storage as a Service powered by Wasabi brings together the best of both worlds so users benefit from leading-edge cloud technology that removes prohibitive costs and complex storage tiers and instead allows them to extract real value from unlimited amounts of data when and how they need to, said Wasabi executive vice president and chief operating officer Marty Falaro.

Honeycomb Object Storage is integrated with Probaxs data protection platform Hive to deliver complete visibility and control of customer data protection services in one place.

Hives built-in automation, intelligence, security, and monitoring capabilities adds further value to MSPs who are looking to leverage cost-effective Object Storage.

Honeycomb Object Storage also integrates with Veeam Software. Veeam Backup and Replication supports object storage as a destination for long-term data storage.

Similarly, Veeam Backup for Office 365 and cloud-specific offerings, such as Veeam Backup for AWS, Veeam Backup for Azure, Veeam Backup for Google Cloud Platform all support object storage.
Today

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 84F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 84F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

Tomorrow

Generally sunny despite a few afternoon clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 107F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.


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Kenya goes to the polls on Tuesday after an acrimonious but largely peaceful election campaign, with all eyes on the closely-fought presidential race.

In its 30 years of multi-party rule, elections in the East African powerhouse have often produced disputed results and set off deadly violence, with rivals accusing each other of fraud and vote-rigging.

The leading candidates this year -- Deputy President William Ruto and Raila Odinga, the opposition veteran who now enjoys the support of the ruling party -- have both called for peaceful votes.

Here is a look at past crises:

- 1992: First multi-party election turns deadly -

Daniel arap Moi is elected president in Kenya's first multi-party poll on December 29, 1992, benefitting from deep divisions among opposition figures.

Moi had been in power since 1978 when he took over after the death of Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya's first leader after independence from Britain.

The 1992 vote is marred by violence between Moi's Kalenjin tribe and the Kikuyu tribe to which Kenyatta and much of the Kenyan elite belong. Hundreds of people are killed.

- 2007-2008: Inter-ethnic bloodshed -

Outgoing president Mwai Kibaki is proclaimed winner for a second term on December 27, 2007 but his challenger Raila Odinga says the vote was rigged.

Clashes in the weeks that follow kill more than 1,100 people and force 600,000 from their homes in a country generally seen as a beacon of stability in Africa.

The epicentre of the violence is the Rift Valley, where members of the ethnic Kalenjin and Luo communities, who mainly back Odinga, clash with members of the Kikuyu community, to which Kibaki belongs.

On February 28, 2008, an internationally-brokered power-sharing agreement is signed under which Kibaki keeps his job and Odinga becomes prime minister.

In 2010, the International Criminal Court (ICC) opens a probe for crimes against humanity over the 2007-2008 violence.

Two years later its judges confirm charges against Uhuru Kenyatta, son of Jomo Kenyatta, and William Ruto, members of opposing parties at the time, for their alleged role in the violence

On March 4, 2013, Kenyatta wins the election and a year later he becomes the first sitting president to appear before the ICC.

But the cases against both Kenyatta and Ruto later collapse, with former ICC chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda saying a relentless campaign of victim and witness intimidation made a trial impossible.

- 2017: Election annulled -

Kenyatta beats longtime rival Odinga in the August 2017 presidential election but Odinga rejects the results and claims hackers broke into the electoral commission database.

The announcement of Kenyatta's win sparks days of violent protests in Odinga strongholds.

Odinga takes his complaints to the Supreme Court and, in a shock announcement on September 1, judges declare the results of the poll "invalid, null and void" and order a re-run within 60 days.

The annulment is a first for Africa.

Kenyatta is re-elected in October in a vote boycotted by the opposition which is marked by low voter turnout.

Dozens of people die in protests that follow, mainly in clashes with police.

But the two men stun the country in 2018 by shaking hands and declaring a truce, leaving Deputy President Ruto out in the cold.
UN investigators on Tuesday reported mounting evidence of crimes against humanity, including murder, torture and sexual violence, committed in Myanmar since last year's military coup.

The United Nations' Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar (IIMM) said women and children were particularly being targeted.

"There are ample indications that since the military takeover in February 2021, crimes have been committed in Myanmar on a scale and in a manner that constitutes a widespread and systematic attack against a civilian population," the investigators said in a statement.

Myanmar's military seized power on February 1 last year, ousting the civilian government and arresting de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

The junta has waged a bloody crackdown on dissent, with the violence leaving more than 2,100 civilians dead and nearly 15,000 arrested, according to a local monitoring group.

The investigation team warned in its annual report that over the 12 months to the end of June, "the scope of potential international crimes taking place in Myanmar has broadened dramatically".

The IIMM was established by the UN Human Rights Council in September 2018 to collect evidence of the most serious international crimes and prepare files for criminal prosecution.

It cooperates with the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court among others.

- Sexual crimes -

"Perpetrators of these crimes need to know that they cannot continue to act with impunity," said IIMM chief Nicholas Koumjian.

The report said that according to the evidence collected, "Sexual and gender-based crimes, including rape and other forms of sexual violence, and crimes against children have been perpetrated by members of the security forces and armed groups."

Koumjian said the investigators were focusing in particular on crimes committed against women and children, which are "amongst the gravest international crimes, but they are also historically under-reported and under-investigated."

Children in Myanmar had been killed, tortured and arbitrarily detained, including as proxies for their parents, the report found.

They had also been subjected to sexual violence and conscripted and trained by security forces and armed groups.

The team, which has never been permitted to visit Myanmar, said it had nonetheless now collected nearly three million "information items", including interview statements, documents, photographs and geospatial imagery.

The investigators said the evidence they had collected indicated that "several armed conflicts are ongoing and intensifying on the territory of Myanmar".

They said they were drawing up case files on specific incidents of war crimes committed in the context of those armed conflicts, including intentional attacks directed at civilians, indiscriminate killings and the widespread burning of villages and towns.

- Nature of crimes 'expanding' -

Other UN experts and the IIMM itself had already warned that war crimes and crimes against humanity were being committed.

But on Tuesday, the investigators cautioned that more and more regions were becoming engulfed in the violence, and that "the nature of the potential criminality is also expanding."

They pointed to the junta's execution of four political prisoners last month, marking the first executions in the country in decades.

The IIMM also highlighted the ongoing plight of Myanmar's Muslim Rohingya minority, five years after a bloody 2017 crackdown that resulted in the displacement of nearly a million people.

Most of the around 850,000 Rohingya who were driven into camps in neighbouring Bangladesh are still there, while another 600,000 are in Myanmar's Rakhine state.

"While the Rohingya consistently express their desire for a safe and dignified return to Myanmar, this will be very difficult to achieve unless there is accountability for the atrocities committed against them, including through prosecutions of the individuals most responsible for those crimes," Koumjian said.

Last month, the International Court of Justice in The Hague threw out objections from Myanmar's military rulers and decided to hear a landmark case accusing the country of genocide against the Rohingya.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in DR Congo on Tuesday for a one-day visit expected to focus on a conflict in the east of the country that has sparked tensions with Rwanda.

Blinken, on the second leg of an African tour, was met at Kinshasa's Ndjili Airport by Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula, the president's office said.

He and President Felix Tshisekedi will have a "one-on-one" meeting at the presidential palace in the evening, it said in a statement.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is seeking international support as it tussles with neighbouring Rwanda over an armed group, the M23, in the country's deeply troubled east.

The DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the rebels -- an assertion repeatedly denied by Kigali, which Blinken will visit immediately after his one-day stay in Kinshasa.

Tshisekedi "will not fail to raise the questions of strategic partnership between the DRC and the USA", the presidential office said in a statement on Monday.

Blinken arrived from South Africa, where he said the United States was seeking a "true partnership" with Africa and was not vying with other powers for influence on the continent.

The M23 -- for "March 23 Movement" -- is a primarily Congolese Tutsi group.

It first leapt to prominence in 2012 when it briefly captured the eastern DRC city of Goma before a joint Congolese-UN offensive drove it out.

After lying mostly dormant for years, the rebel group resumed fighting late last year, seizing the strategic town of Bunagana on the Ugandan border in June and prompting thousands of people to flee their homes.

Kinshasa and Kigali have had strained relations since the mass influx of Rwandan Hutus accused of slaughtering Tutsis during the 1994 Rwanda genocide.

Relations began to thaw after Tshisekedi took office in 2019 but the M23's resurgence has revived tensions.

- Rwanda and M23 -

On the eve of Blinken's swing through the DRC and Rwanda, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged him to condemn the M23 attacks and press Rwanda on its rights record, which included a "brutal" crackdown on dissent.

"As in 2012, the M23 are committing war crimes against civilians," HRW said in a press release.

"Witnesses described summary killings of at least 29 people, including children, in June and July... The US should raise with Rwanda the reliable reports that it is again supporting the M23's abusive conduct in eastern Congo."

In a 131-page report to the UN Security Council seen last week by AFP, experts said Rwandan troops had intervened militarily inside the DRC since at least November.

Rwanda also "provided troop reinforcements" for specific M23 operations, the experts' report said, "in particular when these aimed at seizing strategic towns and areas".

The M23 is just one of scores of armed groups that roam eastern DRC, many of them a legacy of two regional wars that flared late last century.

One of the bloodiest militias is the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) -- an organisation that the Islamic State group describes as its "Central Africa Province" affiliate.

The State Department placed the ADF on its list of IS-linked "terrorist" organisations in March 2021.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday said the United States was "concerned" by "credible" reports that Rwanda is supporting rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The resurgence of the M23 group in Congo's restive east has exacerbated tensions between the neighbours, with Kinshasa accusing Kigali of backing the rebels.

Blinken was speaking in the Congolese capital Kinshasa, where he arrived on Tuesday for the second leg of a three-nation African tour and met President Felix Tshisekedi.

Rwanda has denied the allegations and Blinken is due to visit the country following a one-day stay in the DRC.

"We are very concerned by credible reports that Rwanda has supported the M23," the top US diplomat told a press conference in Kinshasa.

"All countries have to respect their neighbours' territorial integrity. Any entry of foreign forces into the DRC must be done transparently and with the consent of the DRC."

Blinken added that he was "not turning a blind eye" and would discuss the issue with Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

He said his trip to the region was to ensure US support for mediation efforts led by Angola and Kenya "to prevent further violence, to end conflict (and) to preserve the territorial integrity of the DRC".

He spoke after visiting South Africa on Monday, where he said the United States was seeking a "true partnership" with Africa.

- Strained relations -

The DRC is seeking international support as it struggles with Rwanda over the M23, a primarily Congolese Tutsi group that is one of many operating in the troubled east.

After lying mostly dormant for years, the rebels resumed fighting late last year, seizing the strategic town of Bunagana on the Ugandan border in June and prompting thousands of people to flee their homes.

In a 131-page report to the UN Security Council seen last week by AFP, experts said Rwandan troops had intervened militarily inside the DRC since at least November.

Rwanda also "provided troop reinforcements" for specific M23 operations, the experts' report said, "in particular when these aimed at seizing strategic towns and areas".

Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula on Tuesday urged the United Nations to make the report public.

"We demand the Security Council publish (this) report in its entirety," he said.

Kinshasa and Kigali have had strained relations since the mass influx of Rwandan Hutus accused of slaughtering Tutsis during the 1994 Rwanda genocide.

Relations began to thaw after Tshisekedi took office in 2019 but the M23's resurgence has revived tensions.

The group, also known as the "March 23 Movement", first leapt to prominence in 2012 when it briefly captured the city of Goma before a joint Congolese-UN offensive drove it out.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has led an initiative to disarm the active rebel groups, while Angolan counterpart Joao Lourenco has worked to ease tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali.

- Rwanda and M23 -

Blinken arrived in Kinshasa from South Africa, where he said the United States was seeking a "true partnership" with Africa and was not vying with other powers for influence on the continent.

Tshisekedi was to "raise the questions of strategic partnership" between the DRC and the United States during his meeting with Blinken at the presidential palace, his office said in a statement Monday.

On the eve of Blinken's swing through the DRC and Rwanda, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged him to condemn the M23 attacks and press Rwanda on its rights record, which included a "brutal" crackdown on dissent.

"As in 2012, the M23 are committing war crimes against civilians," said a HRW statement.

"Witnesses described summary killings of at least 29 people, including children, in June and July... The US should raise with Rwanda the reliable reports that it is again supporting the M23's abusive conduct in eastern Congo."

The M23 is just one of scores of armed groups that roam eastern DRC, many of them a legacy of two regional wars that flared late last century.

One of the bloodiest militias is the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) -- an organisation the Islamic State group describes as its "Central Africa Province" affiliate.

The US State Department placed the ADF on its list of IS-linked "terrorist" organisations in March 2021.
Latvia has formally asked to join Ukraine's case against Russia at the European Court of Human Rights over Moscow's invasion, the foreign ministry said on Tuesday.

The ECHR said in June that it had registered an official request by Ukraine against Russia, a rare procedure designed to establish human rights violations committed by Moscow since it sent troops into Ukraine on February 24.

Kyiv's request concerns "allegations by the Ukrainian government of massive and flagrant human rights violations committed by the Russian federation in its military operations on the territory of Ukraine since 24 February 2022," the court said at the time.

If the court accepts Riga's petition made on Monday, Latvia will be granted third-party status.

"This is the first time that Latvia has exercised its rights under Article 36(2) of the Human Rights Convention to intervene as a third party in an ongoing international judicial case," the Latvian foreign ministry said in a statement.

The ministry said that the measure was only used "in very rare circumstances".

These are "usually in situations where there are serious concerns about systematic and ongoing human rights violations, including mass atrocities and human rights violations during armed conflicts".

On March 15, Latvia's security service opened a criminal investigation into Russian war crimes in Ukraine, citing articles in Latvia's war crimes and crimes against humanity laws which have no territorial limitation.

After arriving in Latvia, Ukrainian refugees are told of their right to testify about what they witnessed during the Russian invasion, if their experience is relevant to the criminal investigation.

In the first four months of the probe, at least 49 refugees testified and two Ukrainian citizens were recognised as victims.
Girls' Generation member and actress Choi Sooyoung shared her experience working with Ji Chang Wook and confessed she's a fan of the K-drama heartthrob.

Ahead of its premiere on August 10, the "If You Wish Upon Me" cast gathered and talked about their series and teamwork on set.

Choi Sooyoung is Huge Fan of Ji Chang Wook

During the cast members' recent interview, Ji Chang Wook shared his experience working with idol-actress Choi Sooyoung. According to him, he had lots of fun filming the drama because of her, who showed her bubbly side that gave energy to everyone on the set.

In response to him, Sooyoung said, "I have always been a (big) fan of Ji Chang Wook, so I got very excited to work with him."

The "Squad 38" actress added that Ji Chang Wook is the best partner she ever worked with.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Choi Sooyoung Stuns Many With THESE Photos Ahead of Drama Comeback

She praised her co-star by revealing his real personality on set. The celebrity added that Ji Chang Wook is very understanding and supportive of her whenever she improvised scenes with him.

'If You Wish Upon Me' Director Shares Chemistry of Actors on Set

New rising star Won Ji An, who made her appearance in Netflix's "DP" along with Jung Hae In, is also part of the cast. The rookie actress shared that Ji Chang Wook helped her a lot while filming the drama. He gave her heartfelt advice everytime she was struggling.

Director Kim Yong Wan also got real and exposed the atmosphere on set and the chemistry of the actors. He expressed his affection for the actors who showed their sincerity to each other on and off cam.

He also praised veteran actor Sung Dong Il for always taking care of those around him.

Before the interview concluded, a production team member shared a short comment about the soon-to-release drama "If You Wish Upon Me."

The staff described the series, which will follow the story of young people who wish to escape from melancholy and start on a journey filled with happiness and hope. The production team hopes that the heartwarming stories of each character will resonate with viewers.

Catch the long-awaited premiere of Ji Chang Wook and Choi Sooyoung's drama "If You Wish Upon Me" on August 10 at 9:50 p.m. (KST) on KBS.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Ji Chang Wook Did THIS Before Filming Drama 'If You Wish Upon Me'

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, follow and subscribe to KDramastars.

KDramastars owns this article.

Shai Collins wrote this.
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A mock-up shows how back alleys in Peachland might look later this month with the planned addition of murals. The town will host an inaugural mural festival on the Labour Day long weekend.
Taylor Whelan is the winemaker at CedarCreek Estate Winery in Kelowna, which just won winery of the year at the WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada.
Today is Wisconsins primary election day, which will determine which candidates will be facing off during the general election in November for state and local positions ranging from governor to Kenosha County Clerk of Circuit Court.

Also on the ballot for city residents is a referendum to fund additional police officers and firefighters.

Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Residents can find their local polling location and additional information on the election at myvote.wi.gov.

Some local officials are expecting a higher-than-normal turnout for this years election, with the number of candidates vying for county sheriff as David Beth, the longest-serving sheriff in county history, steps down.

The candidates include four Republicans Tyler Cochran, the Kenosha Police Departments Officer Friendly; Albert Gonzales, a former Kenosha police officer; David Zoerner, a Kenosha County Sheriffs Department sergeant; and Ray Rowe, the Kenosha County Sheriffs Departments Deputy Friendly.

Running on the Democrat side is James Simmons, a Lake County Sheriffs Office deputy. After the primary, one of the GOP candidates will face Simmons on Nov. 8.

Two Republican candidates are running for State Senate District 21, incumbent Van Wanggaard and Jay Stone, who has repeatedly pushed claims of voter fraud during the 2020 presidential election.

Mike Honold, a business owner in the Town of Brighton, and Amanda Nedweski, who was elected to the Kenosha County Board of Supervisors in the spring, are vying for the Republican Party bid for District 61 state representative, Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkmans former position.

Democrat Max Winkels, the sergeant of arms for the Kenosha County Democratic Party, is unopposed in the primary for Kerkmans former seat.

Incumbent Democrats Tip McGuire and Tod Ohnstad are running unopposed in their primaries for state assembly districts 64 and 65, respectively, and will face Republicans Ed Hibsch (District 64) and Frank Petrick (District 65) in the general election.

Democrat incumbent Rebecca Matoska-Mentink and Republican Zach Rodriguez are both running unopposed in their primaries for Kenosha County Clerk of Circuit Courts.

State races

The Republican matchup in the Wisconsin governors race on Tuesday features competing candidates endorsed by former President Donald Trump and his estranged vice president, Mike Pence. Democrats are picking a candidate to face two-term GOP Sen. Ron Johnson for control of the closely divided chamber.

Construction company co-owner Tim Michels has Trumps endorsement in the governors race and has been spending millions of his own money, touting both the former presidents backing and his years working to build his familys business into Wisconsins largest construction company. Michels casts himself as an outsider, although he previously lost a campaign to oust then-U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold in 2004 and has long been a prominent GOP donor.

Establishment Republicans including Pence and former Gov. Scott Walker have endorsed former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who along with Walker, survived a 2012 recall effort. She argues she has the experience and knowledge to pursue conservative priorities, including dismantling the bipartisan commission that runs elections.

With U.S. Senate control at stake, Democrats will also make their pick to take on Johnson. Democratic support coalesced around Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes late in the race, when his three top rivals dropped out and threw their support to him. He would become the states first Black senator if elected.

Several lesser-known candidates remain in the primary, but Johnson and Republicans have treated Barnes as the nominee, casting him as too liberal for Wisconsin, a state Trump won in 2016 but lost in 2020.

Four Democrats are also running in Wisconsins 3rd Congressional District, a seat that opened up with the retirement of veteran Democratic U.S. Rep. Ron Kind. The district has been trending Republican, and Derrick Van Orden  who narrowly lost to Kind in 2020 and has Trumps endorsement  is running unopposed.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Attempts to challenge one-China principle will not succeed: FM

(People's Daily App) 09:23, August 09, 2022

China opposes distortionary preconditions and provisos to the one-China policy, Beijing said on Monday.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks at a routine press briefing in Beijing in response to a joint statement by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Japanese Foreign Secretary Hayashi Yoshimasa which included the words "where applicable" alongside the one-China policy.

Certain countries have unilaterally added preconditions and provisos to the one-China policy in an attempt to distort, fudge and hollow out their one-China commitment. This is illegal, null and void. China is firmly against this, Wang said.

The one-China principle is an established international consensus and widely accepted basic norm in international relations. It constitutes part of the post-WWII world order and is affirmed in UNGA Resolution 2758.,Wang said.

"The principle is the political foundation for the establishment and development of diplomatic relations between China and countries in the world, Wang said. The Office of Legal Affairs of the UN Secretariat stressed in its legal opinions that the United Nations considers Taiwan as a province of China with no separate status.

The one-China principle iscrystal clearthat there is only one China in the world, Taiwan is part of China, and the government of the Peoples Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China . The applicability of this principle is universal, unconditional and indisputable. All countries having diplomatic relations with China and all Member States of the UN should unconditionally adhere to the one-China principle and follow the guidance of UNGA Resolution 2758, he said.

"What some individual countries have done is essentially an attempt to misrepresent and distort the one-China principle. This is in effect challenging the basic principles of international law and basic norms governing international relations. This is also a challenge to the post-WWII world order", Wang said.

A person without credibility has no place in society; and a country that loses its credibility would falter," Wang said.

Wang urged certain countries to make sure that they read about the history, abide by the commitments they seriously made in black and white and recognize how dangerous and detrimental it is to act in bad faith and to justify the Taiwan independence separatist forces. Attempts to challenge the one-China principle, international rule of law and the international order are bound to be rejected by the international community and get nowhere.

(Compiled by Wang Jiarui)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Wade Bulman owns and operates a small farm of 236 acres in the west-central Driftless Area of western Wisconsin. He primarily grows cash-grain crops, but has a small cow-calf herd and finishes his steers.

LeeAnne Bulman writes about agriculture from her farm overlooking the beautiful Danuser Valley on Wisconsins west coast. When not writing she helps her husband on their farm. Email genwim2@gmail.com to reach her.


ZIMBABWEANS living in South Africa (SA) have expressed concern over their safety after a top African National Congress (ANC) official said Pretoria could not guarantee the safety of foreign nationals anymore.

ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe made the statement last week, claiming that foreigners illegally residing in SA were to blame for various crimes.

Mabe was addressing ANC members who were picketing at a police station over increased crime allegedly committed by undocumented foreign nationals.

But chairperson of the Zimbabwe Community in SA, Ngqabutho Mabhena described Mabes utterances as unfortunate, and stoking xenophobic attacks.

The constitution of South Africa guarantees the safety of any foreigner in the country and Mabes statement is just unfortunate, Mabhena said, adding that Mabes utterances rekindled memories of the xenophobic horror attacks directed at Zimbabweans in that country over the years.

In April, a Zimbabwean, Elvis Nyathi was stoned and burnt to ashes by seven South Africans who accused him of theft.

The constitution is very clear on how those who are not documented should be treated. As a spokesperson of the ruling party, Mabe should have realised the impact of his utterances although we believe that he said this out of excitement and not from the ANC point of view, Mabhena added.

Foreign Affairs ministry spokesperson Livit Mugejo did not respond to questions sent to him. Efforts to obtain a comment from the Zimbabwe Consulate in South Africa were also fruitless.

However, critics have said ANCs position on illegal immigrants, particularly Zimbabweans, was connected to the partys election campaign.

In 2019, the party announced that it was getting tough on illegal immigrants, claiming that is what the South African society wanted.

In June this year, the ANC identified illegal migration as one of the issues that threaten peace and stability in that country. Newsday
On August 8, the FBI executed a search warrant at former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, as part of an investigation into the handling of potentially classified material. Mar-A-Lago is seen here on August 9.
'We are not scared': Taiwan's foreign minister says island will stand up to 'more serious' China threats
Twelve people  both drivers and 10 children in this van  were hospitalized following an accident south of Fort Wayne on U.S. 27. Police said the driver of the van is from Auburn.
Min Yoongi, more commonly known by his stage names Suga and Agust D, attained global fame after making his debut as the lead rapper of the superstar group BTS back in June 2013. Years after making his debut with the group, Suga went on to become one of the top idols in the industry. Not only for his jaw-dropping rap and producing skills, but also for his immense influence all over the world.

Since his debut, Suga has been active as both a BTS member and with his own individual activities. With Suga having been in the industry for over nine years, how rich has the "Daechwita" rapper become?

Curious about his net worth? Read on to find out!

BTS Suga Net Worth 2022

According to a media outlet, it is estimated that Suga has an individual net worth of around 31 million USD as of this year. However, his net worth can go up as high as 33 million USD.

With BTS immense global popularity these past years, which is showing no signs of stopping any time soon, in addition to the group's influence and loyal fanbase, Suga's net worth figure doesn't come off as a surprise.

But with his 33 million USD in earnings, is the 29-year-old the richest member of the group?

The answer is no, as the current richest member of BTS is J-Hope. However, Suga follows behind as the second richest.

With that, how did Suga earn such a net worth figure?

How Did Suga Earn His Net Worth?

Suga earned a significant amount of his net worth through his earnings from his promotions with BTS. This includes their profits from their music releases, as well as merchandise.

In addition, it is expected that BTS has one of the highest talent and appearance fees among K-pop groups, given their immense popularity and brand power that makes them one of the most in-demand celebrities.

With that, BTS also earns a considerable amount from their endorsement deals, broadcast appearances, and more.

In fact, BTS as a group has a net worth of over 100 million USD, giving Suga a base salary of around 8 million USD per year. He earned an additional 16 million USD with his 68,000 shares invested in HYBE, bringing his net worth amount to 24 million USD already. This excludes Suga's separate earnings from his own activities.

When it comes to music, Suga earns a good amount from his royalties as well. In fact, he has an extensive list of songs where he is credited as a writer, composer, and producer under the Korean Music Copyright Association (KOMCA), for not only BTS and his own releases, but for other musicians as well.

As a solo artist, Suga has released his own mixtapes called "Agust D" and "D-2," where he released numerous hit solo songs such as "So Far Away," "The Last," "Tony Montana," "Agust D," "Give It to Me," "Daechwita," "Strange," "Burn It," and more.

In particular, "D-2" had landed on several music charts around the world, such as Billboard's World Albums, Independent Albums, Top Rap Albums, and Billboard 200 charts, as well as the Official Charts for Albums, Independent Albums, and Hip Hop/R&B Albums in the United Kingdom.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: BTS Suga Shares Current Condition of His Shoulder Following Injury

Suga has also produced for other artists, including PSY, Suran, Epik High, Heize, IU, MI, and even for Samsung and HYBE.

Suga also earns a good amount from his personal Instagram account. Suga reportedly earns around $54,000 USD per sponsored post, which can go up as high as $644,000 USD with his 37.4 million followers.

With Suga's continuous success, the rapper was able to earn the net worth he has today.

For more K-pop news, follow and subscribe to KpopStarz.

KpopStarz owns this article.

Written by Robyn Joan
Korean pop-rock band The Rose is coming back! After three of the four members' two-year military break, the band is finally returning to the stage with new songs for their first full-length album, "HEAL".

According to the band, the album will be "inspired by the stories of the fans and the healing power of music." It will mainly focus on feel-good music and healing lyrics that will comfort the people who will listen to it.

The Rose Teams Up With New Label

The quarter has now signed with Far East Movement's label, Transparent Arts, and they will be handling all of the group promotions.

The Rose has a rare talent, strong work ethic, and sharp business acumen, the COO of Transparent Arts, James Roh, said. They will also fully support the group's creative vision while backing the group up so they can expand their fanbase globally.

.@TheRose_0803, one of Koreas most promising rock-pop acts, is getting a major boost from a proven global partner, Billboard can exclusively share.https://t.co/rTFwV4xWjm  billboard (@billboard) August 8, 2022

"The passion behind Transparent Arts has been to identify and amplify Asian artists to a global audience, and The Rose brings such a unique blend of Korean, U.S., and U.K. influence through an incredibly fresh and emotional modern rock sound," Transparent co-CEO Kevin Nishimura adds.

Meanwhile, their co-CEO Kirby Lee stated that they are excited for new people to see and hear The Rose's upcoming album and their world tour "Heal Together."

In a reply, The Rose said that they are happy with their decision to team up with Transparent Arts label since they fully support their creative freedom for their album "HEAL".

Wasserman music will also be teaming up with The Rose and Transparent Arts for their comeback and upcoming world tour for the European audience and fans.

The Rose's World Tour 'Heal Together'

Fans in the west are already preparing for their upcoming world tour as they will be first on the list.

The Rose will be starting their world tour in October, with Chicago as their first stop. They will go to 15 different cities in the U.S. until November. They will then head down to South America with four countries (Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Argentina) until December.

After that, in 2023, For two months, The Rose will tour different European countries like France, Poland, Belgium, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland. They will also go to Denmark, Sweden, The Netherlands, Spain, and United Kingdom.

Meanwhile, their tour in Asia is still to be announced.

The Rose Leaving J & Star Agency

In 2021, The rose requested their agency to let them leave the company. However, their company did not permit them to do so. The band members said that their agency is not paying them correctly while making them go to schedules that they cannot do.

The agency denied all allegations and brought the issue to court. The court then denied The Rose's request for the termination.

After six months, the agency and the band decided to part ways after releasing "Beauty and the Beast."

Woosung, The Rose Korean-American member did release his solo music "Phase Me" while his bandmates are serving in the military. Watch his music video here!

If you don't know them and are curious, you should watch their music videos below!

Kpopstarz owns this article.

Written by Jaswin Singh
Lady of the Sea General Hospital suffered extensive damages to its main campus for Ida  work that will take years to fully repair. While waiting, the hospital has remained pro-active, bringing as many services back to the community as possible, including an Interim Hospital, which officials hope will open in Spring 2023.
MARSHALL, N.C. (AP)  When schools in one North Carolina county reopen later this month, new security measures will include stocking AR-15 rifles for school resource officers to use in the event of an active shooter.

Spurred by the elementary school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, that left 19 children and two teachers dead in May, school officials and Madison County Sheriff Buddy Harwood have placed one of the semiautomatic rifles in each of the county's six schools. Each of the guns will be locked inside a safe, Harwood said.

The North Carolina school district and sheriff's office are collaborating to enhance security after the Uvalde shooting revealed systemic failures and "egregiously poor decision-making," resulting in more than an hour of chaos before the gunman was finally confronted and killed by law enforcement, according to a report written by an investigative committee from the Texas House of Representatives.

"Those officers were in that building for so long, and that suspect was able to infiltrate that building and injure and kill so many kids," Harwood told the Asheville Citizen Times. "I just want to make sure my deputies are prepared in the event that happens."

The idea of having AR-15s in schools does not sit well with Dorothy Espelage, a UNC Chapel Hill professor in the School of Education who has conducted decades of study and research on school safety and student well-being.

"What's going to happen is we're going to have accidents with these guns," Espelage told WLOS-TV. Just the presence of an SRO increases violence in the schools. There's more arrests of kids. Why is it that they have to have these AR-15s? It doesn't make any sense."

Madison County Schools Superintendent Will Hoffman said school administrators have been meeting regularly with local law enforcement officials, including Harwood, to discuss the updated safety measures.

Harwood said the county's school resource officers have been training with instructors from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College.

Harwood said the safes where the AR-15s will be kept will also hold ammunition and breaching tools for barricaded doors.

"We'll have those tools to be able to breach that door if needed. I do not want to have to run back out to the car to grab an AR, because that's time lost. Hopefully we'll never need it, but I want my guys to be as prepared as prepared can be," he said.

Schools are scheduled to reopen Aug. 22, according to the Madison County Schools website.

While the optics of school resource officers potentially handling AR-15s in schools may be discomforting to some, Harwood said he believes it is a necessary response.

"I hate that we've come to a place in our nation where I've got to put a safe in our schools, and lock that safe up for my deputies to be able to acquire an AR-15. But, we can shut it off and say it won't happen in Madison County, but we never know," Harwood said.
The Republican matchup in the Wisconsin governor's race on Tuesday features competing candidates endorsed by former President Donald Trump and his estranged vice president, Mike Pence. Democrats are picking a candidate to face two-term GOP Sen. Ron Johnson for control of the closely divided chamber.

Meanwhile, voters in Vermont are choosing a replacement for U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy as the chamber's longest-serving member retires. In Minnesota, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar faces a Democratic primary challenger who helped defeat a voter referendum to replace the Minneapolis Police Department with a new Department of Public Safety.

What to watch in Tuesday's primary elections in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Vermont and Connecticut:

Wisconsin

Construction company co-owner Tim Michels has Trumps endorsement in the governor's race and has been spending millions of his own money, touting both the former president's backing and his years working to build his familys business into Wisconsins largest construction company. Michels casts himself as an outsider, although he previously lost a campaign to oust then-U.S. Sen. Russ Feingold in 2004 and has long been a prominent GOP donor.

Establishment Republicans including Pence and former Gov. Scott Walker have endorsed former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who along with Walker, survived a 2012 recall effort. She argues she has the experience and knowledge to pursue conservative priorities, including dismantling the bipartisan commission that runs elections.

With Senate control at stake, Democrats will also make their pick to take on Johnson. Democratic support coalesced around Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes late in the race, when his three top rivals dropped out and threw their support to him. He would become the states first Black senator if elected.

Several lesser-known candidates remain in the primary, but Johnson and Republicans have treated Barnes as the nominee, casting him as too liberal for Wisconsin, a state Trump won in 2016 but lost in 2020.

Four Democrats are also running in Wisconsins 3rd Congressional District, a seat that opened up with the retirement of veteran Democratic U.S. Rep. Ron Kind. The district has been trending Republican, and Derrick Van Orden  who narrowly lost to Kind in 2020 and has Trumps endorsement  is running unopposed.

Minnesota

Democratic Gov. Tim Walz faces a little-known opponent as he seeks a second term. His likely challenger is Republican Scott Jensen, a physician and former state lawmaker who has made vaccine skepticism a centerpiece of his campaign and faces token opposition.

Both men have been waging a virtual campaign for months, with Jensen attacking Walz for his management of the pandemic and hammering the governor for rising crime around Minneapolis. Walz has highlighted his own support of abortion rights and suggested that Jensen would be a threat to chip away at the procedures legality in Minnesota.

Crime has emerged as the biggest issue in Rep. Omar's Democratic primary. She faces a challenge from former Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels, who opposes the movement to defund the police and last year helped defeat efforts to replace the city's police department. Omar, who supported the referendum, has a substantial money advantage and is expected to benefit from a strong grassroots operation.

The most confusing part of Tuesdays ballot was for the 1st Congressional District seat that was held by U.S. Rep. Jim Hagedorn, who died earlier this year from cancer. Republican former state Rep. Brad Finstad and Democrat Jeff Ettinger, a former Hormel CEO, are simultaneously competing in primaries to determine the November matchup for the next two-year term representing the southern Minnesota district, as well as a special election to finish the last few months of Hagedorns term.

Connecticut

Its been roughly three decades since Connecticut had a Republican in the U.S. Senate, but the party isn't giving up.

In the GOP primary to take on Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal, the party has endorsed former state House Minority Leader Themis Klarides. She's a social moderate who supports abortion rights and certain gun control measures and says she did not vote for Trump in 2020. Klarides contends her experience and positions can persuade voters to oppose Blumenthal, a two-term senator who in May registered a 45% job approval rating, his lowest in a Quinnipiac poll since taking office.

Klarides is being challenged by conservative attorney Peter Lumaj and Republican National Committee member Leora Levy, whom Trump endorsed last week. Both candidates oppose abortion rights and further gun restrictions, and they back Trump's policies.

Vermont

Leahy's upcoming retirement has opened up two seats in Vermont's tiny three-person congressional delegation  and the opportunity for the state to send a woman to represent it in Washington for the first time.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, the state's at-large congressman, quickly launched his Senate bid after Leahy revealed he was stepping down. Leahy, who is president pro tempore of the Senate, has been hospitalized a couple of times over the last two years, including after breaking his hip this summer.

Welch has been endorsed by Sanders and is the odds-on favorite to win the seat in November. He faces two other Democrats in the primary: Isaac Evans-Frantz, an activist, and Dr. Niki Thran, an emergency physician.

On the Republican side, former U.S. Attorney Christina Nolan, retired U.S. Army officer Gerald Malloy and investment banker Myers Mermel are competing for the nomination.

The race to replace Welch has yielded Vermonts first wide-open U.S. House campaign since 2006.

Two women, including Lt. Gov. Molly Gray and state Senate President Pro Tempore Becca Balint, are the top Democratic candidates in the race. Gray, elected in 2020 in her first political bid, is a lawyer and a former assistant state attorney general.

The winner of the Democratic primary will be the heavy favorite to win the general election in the liberal state. In 2018, Vermont became the last state without female representation in Congress when Mississippi Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith was appointed to the Senate.

Associated Press writers Scott Bauer in Madison; Doug Glass in Minneapolis; Susan Haigh in Hartford, Connecticut; and Wilson Ring in Montpelier, Vermont, contributed to this report.
Flight returns to Hanoi with sick Japanese passenger

A flight of national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines had to return to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi on Monday while travelling to Japan to save a Japanese boy who suffered from severe nosebleeds.

Around 1 hour and 45 minutes after leaving Noi Bai International Airport for Haneda in Japan, the 10-year-old boy suddenly had a nosebleed. Despite being given urgent care, the passengers condition did not improve as he experienced non-stop bleeding. As a precaution, the crew decided to return to Noi Bai to ensure medical assistance.





A flight of Vietnam Airlines



The boy was then taken to a hospital in Hanoi for treatment with support from Vietnam Airlines staff.



His condition has improved and he has continued staying at the hospital to be monitored.



He took the flight with his mother and sister.

The plane later resumed its trip, which was delayed for 4.5 hours. In spite of being rescheduled, all passengers on the flight showed their sympathy to the boy as well as the crews behaviours.



Chief flight attendant Doan Thi Kim Tho said that in all cases, the safety of passengers is always the top priority. There was no doctor on the flight, while he needed urgent medical support. Therefore, the crew had to make a quick decision to save the boy.


China opposes Japanese PM's criticism of Chinese mainland military exercises in Taiwan region

(People's Daily App) 09:44, August 09, 2022

Japan had no position to make irresponsible remarks on the Taiwan question, China said on Tuesday.

We firmly oppose Japans erroneous remarks and unreasonable accusations, said Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Wang Wenbin at a routine press briefing in Beijing.

Wangs denunciation came in response to remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Tokyo on Friday that missiles fired during Chinese military exercises landed in Japan's "exclusive economic zone".

Japan has no legal, political or moral position to make such irresponsible remarks on the Taiwan question, the ministry spokesperson said.

Japan should acknowledge and keep in mind that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China as stipulated in the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation and Sino-Japanese Joint Statement, Wang said.

Japan is so high profile on the Taiwan question that it makes us wonder whether it still remembers the commitments it made when signing the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement, whether it intends to overturn the political foundation of China-Japan relationship, whether it wants to encroach on Taiwan again, and whether it is going to abandon the path of peaceful development, he said.

The waters around Taiwan are all Chinese territory and there is no Japan's exclusive economic zone, Wang said. The military exercises conducted in the waters surrounding China's territory are in an open, transparent and professional manner, and conform with Chinese laws, international laws and international practices.

He urged Japan to seriously reflect on its history of aggression and stop making irresponsible remarks or committing faulty actions against Taiwan following the US.

(Compiled by Yang Luxin)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Kochi, Aug 9 (PTI) Request for sanctioning an aided college for the hearing impaired by a charitable society in the state "cannot be allowed to fall on deaf ears", the Kerala High Court has said and directed the LDF government to reconsider its decision -- against setting up aided colleges -- in this particular case.

Also Read | 5G Mobile Services To Be Rolled in a Month, Says Centre.

Justice Devan Ramachandran said that the state government's policy not to allow any aided colleges "cannot be mechanically applied" to the instant case where the students who would benefit from such an institution "deserve the empathy and support of the society at large".

Also Read | Ashura 2022: Tight Security in Lucknow On the 10th Day of Muharram.

"They may be hearing impaired, but their prayers cannot be allowed to fall on deaf ears," the judge said.

The court was hearing a plea moved by the Sacred Heart Clarist Province Charitable Society seeking sanction to start an aided arts and science college for hearing impaired students from the academic year 2022-23.

The society, represented by senior advocate Jaju Babu, moved the high court after the Mahatma Gandhi University had not yet considered their request for affiliation to the aided college.

The petitioner organisation, in its plea, claimed that the state government stand was not correct as the institution they intend to start was not a mere aided college, but was intended to "foster social engineering by providing imperative opportunities to the more vulnerable".

It said that hearing impaired students who successfully complete their higher secondary course drop out subsequently as there are no college education opportunities for them.

Babu told the court that the society runs a Higher Secondary School with hostel facility for the hearing impaired and unless they open an aided college, the students passing out from there will have no other option but to discontinue their further education.

He also argued that when the proposed institution was intended to cater to those sections of students who are entitled to be constitutionally protected under the ambit of Articles 15 and 16, the government cannot stand in the way merely saying that this will incur expenditure.

The senior lawyer also contended in the court that the proposed aided college was not a large one and therefore, the expenditure would be a minimum.

The state government, on the other hand, stuck to its stand that aided colleges were not being sanctioned in view of the "anticipated financial burden" and as this was a policy decision, the court cannot interfere with the same.

The high court agreed that the courts cannot interfere with policy decision making of the government, but said that in the instant case the institution cannot be treated as any other aided college as their objective was to "offer a hand to a very vulnerable section of the society" who are entitled to full constitutional protection under Articles 15 and 16.

"Ineluctably, therefore, the policy of the government - not to allow any aided colleges - cannot be mechanically applied to the case of the petitioner, especially when the students who they intend to cater education certainly deserve the empathy and support of the society at large.

"In the afore circumstances, I am certain that the government must reconsider their stand singularly with reference to the application made by the petitioner, though I clarify that the directions herein cannot apply to any other person or entity, since I am guided by the specific factual circumstance impelled herein," Justice Ramachandran said.

The court ordered the state government to reconsider the society's request for starting an aided college, but only for catering to students with hearing disabilities.

"...this shall be done with the empathy that the cause deserves. The government will hear the petitioner and test their credentials for the afore purpose and the resultant order will be issued within a period of two months from the date of receipt of a copy of this judgment," the court said.

"Needless to say, on the government taking a decision as afore, the University will proceed to consider the application (of the society) and issue apposite orders on it without any avoidable delay thereafter," it added.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chandigarh, Aug 9 (PTI) Haryana will be conducting a mass vaccination of cattle, restrict their movement from one place to another and ban cattle fairs to arrest the spread of lumpy skin disease in the state.

Speaking in the state assembly, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Minister J P Dalal on Tuesday noted that 5 lakh vaccines have been ordered for the prevention of the disease in cattle, adding that the vaccines will reach the state by evening.

Also Read | CA Result 2022 Date and Time: ICAI To Declare CA Foundation Exam Result Tomorrow at icai.nic.in; Check Details Here.

"We have procured the vaccines for immediate vaccination to the animals," he said while responding to the Calling Attention Motion moved by Opposition Congress MLA Amit Sihag.

The minister said the disease mainly affects cattle.

Also Read | Shrikant Tyagi Got VIP Pass for Vehicle From Swami Prasad Maurya, Says Noida Police.

He said out of 62.92 lakh bovines (buffalo and cattle) in the state, 19.32 lakh are cattle.

Initial reports of the lumpy skin disease (LSD) were reported from Yamunanagar district in July last week.

Giving details of the total number of cases as on August 8, Dalal said the number of villages affected are 482, while 6,135 cattle have been affected and number of deaths reported is 23.

He told the House that Sirsa district is the worst-hit where 103 villages have been affected involving 825 cattle, while 19 cattle have died.

Ambala, Yamunanagar and Kaithal districts have also been affected, he said.

The last outbreak of the disease was reported in Hisar nearly a year ago, wherein 60 animals were suspected to be suffering from LSD, while it was confirmed in 12 animals after sampling.

Dalal said the disease has less impact in Haryana as compared to neighbouring Punjab and Rajasthan.

The department has also issued an advisory regarding this disease that the movement of animals should be restricted, while no cattle fairs be held for the time being, he said.

Farmers are being advised that isolation of affected animals from other animals is of utmost importance.

The department is motivating farmers to spray insecticides to control flies, mosquitoes and external parasites. To provide necessary information to farmers about this disease, 10 lakh pamphlets are being distributed.

Samples have been sent to National Institute of High Security Animal Disease (NIHSAD), Bhopal for testing, which is the lab approved by the central government for testing. After the report of testing comes positive, necessary action will be taken to notify the disease, Dalal said.

Notably, lumpy disease infects cows and buffaloes mainly through vectors like blood-feeding insects. It leads to formation of nodes on an animal's skin or hide that look like lumps.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi [India], August 9 (ANI): Two hawkers have been arrested for allegedly raping a 17-year-old girl near New Delhi railway station, the police said on Monday.

According to police, the incident took place near bushes along the railway tracks near Tilak Bridge in the early hours of Monday.

Also Read | Uttar Pradesh Shocker: 13-Year-Old Boy Smothered to Death by Man in Bijnor After Failed Sexual Assault Attempt.

The accused have been identified as Hardeep Nagar (21), a resident of Faridabad and Rahul (20), a resident of Agra, police said.

The accused hawkers used to sell water bottles at the new Delhi railway station.

Also Read | Infinix Smart 6 HD With 5,000mAh Battery Debuts in India.

"The case has been registered under section 376D of the Indian Penal Code and both the accused have been arrested," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Railways) Harendra Kumar Singh said.

Th police further informed that the girl who hails from Gujarat had come to New Delhi railway station with a friend, Deepak on Sunday to board a train for Gujarat. However, she had a fight with him and he left her at the station.

The incident took place while the girl was on the Central foot over bridge and the two hawkers met her. She requested them for their mobile phone to make a call to her brother.

When she asked them to help her to catch the train, they took her to some bushes along the track near Tilak Bridge saying that the train would be available from some other station where they raped her, the police said.

"On August 4, she left home alongwith Deepak to visit Deepak's village and boarded a train the next morning (August 5) and reached Lucknow on August 6, from where they hired a taxi and reached Deepak's village. They returned the same night and boarded a train for New Delhi from where they were supposed to catch a train for Gujarat," DCP (Railways) said.

"They reached New Delhi Railway Station on Sunday at 2 PM from where they were due to board Jamnagar Express at 9:40 PM, which they missed. An argument took place between the two and Deepak left her at the station," the police officer added.

The complainant and both the accused have been medically examined. The forensic team has visited the place of crime.

An investigation into the matter is underway, the police said. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Mumbai, Aug 9 (PTI) The Mumbai Police will soon launch an initiative to reunite missing or abducted children with their families.

Also Read | Commonwealth Medalists Sakshi Malik, Pooja Sihag and Pooja Gehlot Given Thunderous Welcome at Delhi Airport (Watch Video).

The 'Operation Reunited' will be started on August 15, the country's 75th Independence Day, and go on till September 15, an official said on Monday.

Also Read | Gnanendra Prasad, Telangana BJP Leader, Found Hanging From Ceiling Fan At His Residence in Miyapur.

To make the initiative successful, the city police have sought help from citizens to help them find the missing and abducted children, he said.

During the month-long exercise, the police will also search for the parents of such children and help them reunite with their families, the official said.

The police have also appealed to people to inform them on helpline numbers 100 or 1098 about children found in suspicious condition, those begging on railway stations, bus depots and roads and those engaged in rag-picking, he said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Noida, Aug 9 (PTI) After fleeing Noida, politician Shrikant Tyagi first went to the airport in Delhi to escape police arrest and quickly reach Lucknow, officials said on Tuesday.

But by the time he reached the Indira Gandhi International Airport Friday night, the video of him abusing and assaulting the Noida woman had gone viral and that changed his planned course of action, the officials said.

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He was booked for assaulting and abusing a woman resident inside their housing society.

"From Delhi, Shrikant Tyagi went Meerut and then to Muzaffarnagar in western Uttar Pradesh. He had briefly gone to Rishikesh and Haridwar also in Uttarakhand," Police Commissioner Alok Singh said.

Also Read | Shrikant Tyagi Got VIP Pass for Vehicle From Swami Prasad Maurya, Says Noida Police.

"On Sunday, he once again entered Uttar Pradesh and kept changing hideouts in Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Baghpat and nearby areas in order to evade arrest," Singh told reporters.

According to officials privy to the probe, Tyagi wanted to quickly reach Lucknow because of which he thought to take a flight from Delhi.

"But the video of him assaulting and hurling expletives at the woman had already done damage to him. The videos were viral and he feared he would not be able to meet his contacts in Lucknow even if he made it to Lucknow airport," an official told PTI.

Commissioner Alok Singh said during the four-day period since he fled Noida, Tyagi kept changing vehicles and electronic gadgets and devices, including mobile phones, in order to not get traced by police.

The commissioner said initially eight police teams were formed to nab Tyagi but later four more teams added to accomplish the task.

"He even went outside UP borders to escape but our teams used human intelligence, technical intelligence to track him," the officer said.

"The main accused cleverly kept hiding and from time to time maintained radio silence, electronic silence in order to escape being tracked. But police continued its efforts and the Noida police today arrested him from Meerut along with other support teams," he added.

Tyagi now faces multiple charges, including those under the Indian Penal Code and the Gangsters Act.

Until he went underground Friday night, Tyagi claimed to be the national executive member of the BJP's Kisan Morcha and the national co-coordinator of its Yuva Samiti, even as the ruling party denied any links with him.

The Opposition has also mounted an attack on the BJP over the issue, sharing purported pictures of Tyagi with senior saffron party leaders, including its national president J P Nadda.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Noida, Aug 9 (PTI) Shrikant Tyagi, arrested Tuesday for allegedly assaulting a woman in Noida, flaunted a car sticker that falsely identified him as an MLA and was given to him by Samajwadi Party leader Swami Prasad Maurya, police said.

Police Commissioner Alok Singh said they have impounded his five cars--two Toyota Fortuner, two Tata Safari and a Honda Civic.

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He had also purchased special series numbers, all having at least two zeroes and the Lucknow registration, for his vehicles for which he paid Rs 1.10 lakh each.

Tyagi, who was arrested Tuesday morning from Meerut, has been an associate of Maurya, the police commissioner said.

Also Read | Shrikant Tyagi Got VIP Pass for Vehicle From Swami Prasad Maurya, Says Noida Police.

"He also had a sticker on one of his vehicles which is given to honourable MLAs. Tyagi told police during questioning that this sticker was provided to him by his associate Swami Prasad Maurya," Singh said.

The sticker said the member of legislative assembly, Uttar Pradesh.

Maurya could not be immediately contacted for his response.

Maurya, who was a minister in the previous BJP government in the state, had quit the party just ahead of the Assembly earlier this year and joined the Samajwadi Party.

Currently, he is a member of the state legislative council from the Samajwadi Party.

Until he went underground Friday night, Tyagi claimed to be the national executive member of the BJP's Kisan Morcha and the national co-coordinator of its Yuva Samiti, even as the ruling party denied any links with him.

The Opposition has also mounted an attack on the BJP over the issue, sharing purported pictures of Tyagi with senior saffron party leaders, including its national president J P Nadda.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], August 9: Bharatiya Janata Party leader Gnanendra Prasad was found dead at his residence, informed the officials on Monday.

Prasad was found hanging from a fan when police officials reached the spot.

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The incident came to light when the Miyapur police during the morning hours of Monday, received information stating that a person committed suicide within Miyapur police station limits

"Immediately one team was dispatched to the spot and police found one person hanged himself to the ceiling fan in his residence. The reason for his suicide is not known yet, but he was staying in his penthouse for the past few days," said police.

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The body was later shifted to a local hospital for

The dead body has been shifted to a local govt hospital for post-mortem examination (PME).

A case U/s 174 CrPC has been registered.

Further investigations are underway. (ANI)

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New Delhi [India], August 9 (ANI): Amid the ongoing monsoon session and adjournments in parliament, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Monday took a jibe at TMC leader Derek O'Brien after the latter accused the centre of turning parliament into a 'Gujarat Gymkhana'.

Joshi also called out the TMC party for its "arrogance".

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"TMC leader @derekobrienmp should stop preaching about democratic values and the sanctity of institutions. The people of Bengal have elected BJP as the main opposition but TMC, in its arrogance, has denied BJP the post of PAC Chairman," tweeted Joshi.

His remarks came after the TMC leader alleged that the parliament session was cut short.

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"THIS IS THE SEVENTH CONSECUTIVE TIME PARLIAMENT SESSION HAS BEEN CUT SHORT Stop mocking #Parliament We will fight for its sanctity and prevent PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shahfrom turning this great institution into the Gujarat Gymkhana," tweeted TMC leader Derek O'Brien.

Raising a cross question Joshi added," Will @derekobrienmp care to address how many days had the West Bengal Assembly functioned? Or is the State functioning as a Mamata Gymkhana?."

Five Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament in the monsoon session of Parliament which concluded on Monday ahead of schedule with the session seeing repeated adjournments on various issues due to opposition protests on a range of issues including price rise.

The Lok Sabha passed seven bills and six legislations were introduced in the House.

Four bills were passed in Rajya Sabha. The government withdrew the Data Protection Bill, 2019 and has decided to come up with comprehensive legislation.

The two Houses were adjourned sine die on Monday, four days before the scheduled end of the session.

In his valedictory remarks, outgoing Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu said more than 47 Hours were lost due to interruptions, "which is a sad reflection on the functioning of the Upper House of Parliament".

The two Houses had 16 sittings over 22 days since the session commenced on July 18. The session saw the election of a new President and Vice President.

The Lok Sabha met for 44 hours and twenty-nine minutes during the session.

The Lok Sabha passed the Indian Antarctic Bill, 2022, the Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022, the National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021, the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021, the Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2022, the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2022 and the New Delhi International Arbitration Centre (Amendment) Bill, 2022

The Rajya Sabha passed the Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Amendment Bill, 2022, the Indian Antarctic Bill, 2022, the National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021, the Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022 and the Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2022

The opposition forced several adjournments in the House over its demand for an immediate debate on price rise and withdrawal of GST on some items of daily use.

Congress also protested the ED searches in the National Herald case accusing the government of misusing central agencies. (ANI)

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New Delhi, Aug 9 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed anguish at the loss of lives in an accident in West Bengal's Birbhum district and announced Rs 2 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased.

At least nine persons, including eight women farm labourers, died when an autorickshaw and a state transport bus collided on National Highway-60 in Bengal's Birbhum district on Tuesday afternoon, a senior police officer said.

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The incident occurred at Mallarpur near Rampurhat when the overcrowded auto rickshaw collided head-on with the South Bengal State Transport Corporation (SBSTC) bus.

"Anguished by the loss of lives due to a tragic accident in Birbhum district of West Bengal. Prayers with the injured," Modi was quoted as saying in a tweet by his office.

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Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) would be given to the next of kin of each deceased and the injured would be given Rs 50,000, Modi said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, Aug 9 (PTI) AU Small Finance Bank has raised around Rs 2,000 crore from qualified institutional investors against the target of up to Rs 2,500 crore, according to a regulatory filing.

The qualified institutional placement (QIP) witnessed the participation of DSP, the Singapore government, Goldman Sachs and ICICI Prudential Life, among others.

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The Jaipur-based small finance bank (SFB) said its capital raising committee on Tuesday approved the allotment of 3,44,82,758 equity shares to the eligible qualified institutional buyers (QIBs) at an issue price of Rs 580 per piece.

It had set the floor price for the QIP at Rs 590.84 per cent.

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The QIP issue price was at a discount of 1.83 per cent or Rs 10.84 per share aggregating to Rs 19,99,99,99,640, the bank said in a regulatory filing.

The QIP issue opened on August 3 and ended on Monday.

On April 29, 2021, AU Small Finance Bank had announced its plan to raise up to Rs 2,500 crore by issuing equity shares to QIBs.

Pursuant to the allotment of equity shares, the paid-up equity share capital of the bank stands increased to Rs 664.67 crore, AU SFB said.

The lender said as many as seven participants in the QIP were offered more than 5 per cent each of the equity shares offered in the issue.

DSP Tax Saver Fund has been offered the highest number of shares at 41,75,344 (12.11 per cent) followed by the Government of Singapore (11.31 per cent), Small Cap World Fund Inc. (10.46 per cent) and New World Fund Inc (9.19 per cent).

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company, Government Pension Fund Global and Gold Sachs Funds - Goldman Sachs India Equity Portfolio were offered 5.95 per cent each of the number of shares under the QIP.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, Aug 9 (PTI) IT company HCL Infosystems on Tuesday posted a consolidated loss of Rs 9.97 crore for the quarter ended on June 30, 2022.

The company had recorded a profit of Rs 40.79 crore in the same period a year ago.

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The consolidated revenue from operations of HCL Infosystems declined by 67 per cent to Rs 9.12 crore during the reported quarter from Rs 27.61 crore in the year-ago quarter.

The company in a statement said that it is renegotiating some of the terms of share purchase agreement related to sale of HCL Infotech to Novezo as one of the customers of a key defence project has asked to novate the project to either HCL Infosystems or to a third party service provider acceptable to the customer, instead of transferring the project to Novezo as part of the sale deal.

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"This exercise has resulted in a significant delay in closing the sale of HCL Infotech to Novezo. In addition, some of the terms of the Share Purchase Agreement are being renegotiated and there are unresolved issues which if resolved, will require approval of the Board and the Shareholders of the Company," HCL Infosystems said.

HCL Infosystems said that in order to reduce the its debt obligations, the company has decided to monetize certain company owned properties in a phased manner.

"Several of the Company's properties are not being fully utilized due to changes in the business of the Company. The Company has sold three properties during the quarter for a total consideration of Rs 8.64 crore," the statement said.

The company said that it has received income tax refund of Rs 15 crore during the June 2022 quarter.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Beijing [China], August 9 (ANI): Following a recent outbreak of COVID-19 in the Himalayan region, Chinese authorities closed the famed Potala Palace, the residence of Lamas in Tibet, local media reported.

A notice on the palace's Weixin social media site said the palace that was the traditional home of Tibet's Buddhist leaders would be closed from Tuesday (Aug 9), with a reopening date to be announced later, Focus Taiwan reported.

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Potala Palace is a popular tourist spot which has a major contribution to the economy of Tibet.

The action underscores China's continued adherence to its "Zero-COVID" policy, mandating lockdowns, routine testing, quarantines and travel restrictions, even while most other countries have reopened.

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While China claims that its hard-line "Zero-COVID" policy has been successful in preventing large-scale hospitalisations and deaths, critics including the World Health Organization have decried its impact on the economy and society and said it is out of step with the changing nature of the virus and new methods of prevention and treatment.

On Tuesday, the Chinese mainland reported 828 new COVID-19 cases of domestic transmission.

Southwest China's Xizang (Tibet) Autonomous Region reported 22 cases on Sunday, marking the end of the region's 920-day record of no cases. The majority of those cases showed no symptoms.

The 22 cases are all related to Xizang's Xigaze city, home to about 800,000 people. Eighteen cases were detected in Lhasa and nine of them took the same train from Xigaze to Lhasa on Thursday, Global Times reported.

Xigaze on Monday put the whole city under three-day static management, with nobody allowed to enter or leave the city.

Lhasa, the capital city of Xizang, announced to implement the "static management" in medium and high-risk areas, and cross-city travelling in low-risk areas will be required to present a 48-hour negative nucleic acid testing result, Global Times reported.

In Northwest China, a total of 274 cases were reported in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, affecting 12 counties and urban districts in seven prefectures and cities. Xinjiang region reported 69 new asymptomatic infections on Sunday, 59 of which were found in Yining, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture.

Officials from the local health authority said that the Xinjiang region has been hit by multiple sporadic clusters of COVID-19 infections, and the current epidemic prevention and control situation is still grim.

According to data from the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region's Department of Culture and Tourism, the Xinjiang region has witnessed a surge in the number of tourists this summer.

The Gatherings of people and cross-regional movement may have potentially increased the transmission of the virus and the risk of its spread inside and outside Xinjiang, health authorities said.

Meanwhile, over 80,000 travellers are still stranded in Sanya city of Hainan province, which is the most desired tourist spot in China. Chinese officials told tourists not to leave the island on which Sanya is located till they consistently test negative for the virus. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Beijing [China], August 9 (ANI): China's naval exercises and airspace violations in the East and South China sea are to meet domestic challenges by appeasing the hypernationalists as the 20th party Congress is fast approaching and Chinese President Xi Jinping is eyeing to secure a third term, however, in reality, Beijing will fall short of an attack on the island nation, media reports said.

If Beijing were to invade Taiwan, China would need to mobilize 1.2 million soldiers in Taiwan through ships to counter the 450,000 military personnel in Taiwan, experts say. This will exert heavy pressure on the Chinese navy and aggravate military attrition.

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On political and economic grounds, Beijing will find it very difficult to go to war. Chinese President Xi Jinping is facing massive criticism at home for mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic, mortgage boycotts, and loss of livelihood. People are protesting on the ground and venting their anger on social media as the distress grows.

So it appears Xi may keep using military threats through military drills to soothe the hyper nationalists at home. He is using Nancy Pelosi's visit as an excuse to escalate tensions but would stop short of an attack on Taiwan.

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The Chinese President wants to set a larger than life image for himself and portray himself as a strong leader in front of the Chinese people. To achieve this objective, China is using its military might and encircling Taiwan to intimidate the island nation.

This comes as US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan even after Beijing repeatedly used its wolf-warrior diplomacy to try and stop her. However, Pelosi did go and China sought the use of symbolic gesture to vent its anger and to be seen as determined about the annexation of Taiwan.

However, as the anticipation lingers on, it seems like China will not attack Taiwan, reported Global Strat View. There are multiple reasons why China will not go down that way. China's economy is already witnessing a downturn and any military adventures in the Taiwanese Strait will further worsen the situation.

Furthermore, China will also catch international attention if it does try to invade Taiwan. This is because there is already a war going on in Eastern Europe and the countries who are condemning the Ukraine war will not take much time to criticize Beijing in playing out the same moves in Taiwan.

Taiwan drew a parallel and felt that when Russia invaded Ukraine no country intervened so will US support the island nation in case China invaded. In a survey conducted by Taiwan Public Opinion Foundation, only 35 per cent believed the US would come to Taiwan's rescue. In such a backdrop, Pelosi's visit brings much-needed assurance to the Taiwanese people and boosts their morale.

Pelosi has been a vocal critic of China's human rights abuses. In 1991, she had unrolled a banner at Tiananmen Square, which read "To those who died for democracy in China."

In addition, the abrupt retreat from Afghanistan tainted the US image as a reliable partner. The 1979 Taiwan Relations Act states, "the United States will make available to Taiwan such defense articles and defense services in such quantity as may be necessary to enable Taiwan to maintain a sufficient self-defense capabilities" and "shall maintain the capacity of the United States to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardize the security, or social or economic system, of the people of Taiwan." But it is not binding.

However, it must be noted that a 2021 Pentagon report on China read, "An attempt to invade Taiwan would likely strain PRC's (Chinese) armed forces and invite international intervention." (ANI )

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Wellington (New Zealand), Aug 9 (AP) The US is doubling down on its investment in the Pacific, said US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman on Tuesday as she concluded a five-nation visit to the region.

The future will be written here in the Pacific, Sherman said at an agreement-signing event in New Zealand's capital, Wellington.

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Critics have accused the US of neglecting the region and allowing China's influence to flourish.

Sherman said the US has always been a Pacific nation. She said it has been a priority for President Joe Biden to rebuild alliances and relationships around the world, and officials were using every vehicle possible to collaborate with Pacific partners.

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And so we are doubling down on our investment here in the Pacific, Sherman said. Our relationships, our partnerships, regional organisations.

Asked if she felt the US or China was winning the battle for influence in the region, Sherman said she didn't see it quite that way.

It's not so much a battle, she said. I think that countries try to have relations with every country they believe will help them move forward. And the US does not ask any country to chose between us and China, or any other country and China."

She said the US wanted a level playing field and respect for the rules-based international order that was put in place after World War II, a system that had helped China rise and which ought to benefit all nations.

Sherman said she had discussed China among a number of topics in a meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

Sherman signed agreements to collaborate more closely with New Zealand on space missions and emergency management. It was the final stop on a trip that had taken her to Samoa, Tonga, the Solomon Islands and Australia.

Sherman spoke more about the decision of Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare to skip a service on Sunday commemorating the Battle of Guadalcanal that she and other dignitaries attended.

I told him I was sorry for him because I thought he missed an opportunity to raise up that strong partnership and the fight for freedom that allowed the Solomon Islands to exist as it is today, she said.

The Solomon Islands in April signed a security pact with China in a move that has alarmed many in the Pacific who fear it could lead to a military buildup. The US earlier this year announced plans to reopen an embassy in the Solomon Islands. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Copenhagen, Aug 9 (AP) The leaders of Estonia and Finland want fellow European countries to stop issuing tourist visas to Russian citizens, saying they should not be able to take vacations in Europe while the government of Russia carries out a war in Ukraine.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas wrote Tuesday on Twitter that visiting Europe is a privilege, not a human right and that it is time to end tourism from Russia now.

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A day earlier, her counterpart in Finland, Sanna Marin, told Finnish broadcaster YLE that it is not right that while Russia is waging an aggressive, brutal war of aggression in Europe, Russians can live a normal life, travel in Europe, be tourists."

Estonia and Finland both border Russia and are members of the European Union, which banned air travel from Russia after it invaded Ukraine. But Russians can still travel by land to both countries and apparently are then taking flights to other European destinations.

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YLE reported last week that Russian companies have started offering car trips from St. Petersburg to the airports of Helsinki and Lappeenranta in Finland, which have direct connections to several places in Europe. Russia's second-largest city is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the Finnish capital.

Visas issued by Finland are valid across most of Europe's travel zone, known as the Schengen area which is made up of 26 countries: 22 EU nations plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Normally, people and goods move freely between these countries without border checks. Nineteen other countries outside this travel area allow in foreigners using a Schengen visa.

Some EU countries no longer issue visas to Russians, including Latvia, which made that decision this month because of the war.

Tourist visas for Russians are expected be discussed at an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers on Aug. 31, YLE reported.

I would believe that in future European Council meetings, this issue will come up even more strongly. My personal position is that tourism should be restricted, Marin told the Finnish broadcaster.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday expressed hope that common sense will eventually prevail in European countries that are calling to bar Russians from traveling to the EU.

Peskov said proposals for such a ban are usually coming from countries Moscow has already deemed hostile and many of those countries in their hostility sink into oblivion.

I think that over time, common sense will somehow manifest itself, and those who made such statements will come to their senses, Peskov said.

Putin's close associate and deputy head of Russia's Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, dismissed Kallas' statement Tuesday in a social media post, adding ominously: I just want to remind her of another saying: The fact that you are free is not your merit, but our flaw.'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also aired a proposal against Russian tourism in an interview with The Washington Post published Tuesday. He said the most important sanctions are to close the borders for Russian travelers, because the Russians are taking away someone else's land.

Russians should live in their own world until they change their philosophy, Zelenskyy said, adding that such restrictions should apply to all Russians, even those who left the country and oppose the war.

It's contrasts with what Zelenskyy said in March, a month after Moscow sent troops into Ukraine, when he urged Russians to leave the country to avoid funding the war with their taxes.

Asked about Zelenskyy's remarks in The Washington Post, Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, called them a statement ... that speaks for itself, which Moscow views extremely negatively. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Colchester (UK), Aug 9 (The Conversation) A YouGov poll of party members completed on August 2 shows Rishi Sunak to be trailing Liz Truss 31% to 69% in the Conservative leadership contest. A similar poll completed on July 21 had him on 38% to her 62%. She appears to be winning the contest hands down.

This is surprising given that Sunak was a very popular chancellor at the time of the Covid lockdown, in large part due to his generosity in supporting workers with the furlough scheme. But the survey shows that the members prefer Truss to him by large margins on the key policy issues such as the cost of living, the NHS, asylum seekers, housing and defence.

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In addition, they think she is more likely to deliver a Conservative victory in the next election  although many are pessimistic about whether this can be achieved. This raises the interesting question: why he is doing so badly among the party members?

One reason is the stab-in-the-back narrative  the idea that Sunak was disloyal to his boss by resigning as chancellor. This set off an avalanche of departures from the government that brought prime minister Boris Johnson down. Altogether 51% of respondents to the survey thought it was wrong for him to resign and only 40% thought this was the right thing to do. In addition, only 27% of members thought he was trustworthy, compared with 60% who thought the same thing about Truss. It looks like his early resignation damaged him a lot in the leadership race.

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But there is another factor which has not been discussed at all. This is the possibility that some Conservative party members are prejudiced against him because he comes from an ethnic minority background. In a country striving for greater equality, this is not a question that should be avoided. Indeed, were this a general election, some discussion of this would surely be happening. Inequality cannot be addressed without evidence and honesty  a fact that is accepted by businesses, government organisations and indeed parliamentary parties.

When David Cameron was party leader, he promoted the cause of inclusion in the parliamentary party for ethnic minorities. He made key appointments to his cabinet that could be seen as shifting the dial. So the Conservative parliamentary party cannot be accused of ignoring this issue. But the same may not be true of the party members. Is prejudice among the members a fact that dare not speak its name?

If prime ministers are to be selected via party elections, this is an issue that must be at least considered.

No one ticks the Yes, I'm racist' box

Identifying prejudice is a longstanding difficulty for pollsters. Survey respondents are unlikely to admit they are prejudiced against ethnic minorities, because it is seen as socially undesirable. They are highly unlikely to say outright that they don't want a leader from an ethnic minority. And indeed, many will proudly state that it isn't an issue when asked. There are some methodological techniques for finding out how people really feel, such as list experiments, in which some people are asked to give their view on a sensitive issue and others are not. More generally, we have to find these things out using indirect methods rather than direct questions.

When it comes to the party membership election specifically, pollsters face another problem: it's tricky to harvest a representative sample since they only make up a relatively small percentage of the population. National polls of the electorate typically involve about 1,000 to 1,500 respondents and so there are too few party members in these surveys to do any analysis.

YouGov solves this problem by drawing on its very large panel of potential respondents who are paid to take surveys, and this allows them to identify a reasonably sized sample of Conservative party members.

What the data does tell us

We can, however, get around both problems with the help of a very large online survey conducted by the British Election Study just prior to the 2019 general election. This survey had more than 34,000 respondents and included just over 2,500 members from the major parties. It also asked some indirect questions which help us to identify prejudice against ethnic minorities.

One question asked respondents if they thought that policies aimed at giving ethnic minorities equal opportunities in society had gone too far or had not gone far enough.

About 10% of non-Conservative voters thought these policies had gone much too far  roughly the same as Conservative voters at 11%. In contrast some 14% of Conservative party members thought this, a statistically significant difference from the voters. At the not gone nearly far enough end of the scale these differences were even more marked. Only 1% of Conservative party members and 2% of Conservative voters thought this, compared with 7% of other party voters.

These differences were replicated in the not gone far enough and gone too far categories as well. Conservative party members are consistently more opposed to the levelling up of ethnic minorities compared with voters in general, including Conservative voters.

A second indirect question asked about opposition to further immigration into Britain. Responses showed that 19% of non-Conservative voters were strongly opposed to this, compared with 38% of Conservative voters and 45% of Conservative party members.

It looks like some Tory grassroots members hold views that would imply they do not want an ethnic minority politician as their prime minister. Knowing this with certainty is always a problem but if results of this kind were thrown up in another context  such as in a parliamentary party  they would be recognised as warranting deeper thought and investigation. As things stand, this probably contributes to Sunak's poor performance among the party members who are after all choosing the next prime minister. This issue does not appear to be attracting nearly enough attention. (The Conversation)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kabul [Afghanistan], August 9 (ANI): Acting Talibani appointed education minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Noorullah Munir said that the schools in the country were closed for girls due to 'cultural constraints', media reports said.

In the month of March, the Taliban administration in Afghanistan has announced that girls' high schools will be closed, hours after they reopened for the first time in nearly seven months. The backtracking by the Taliban led to female students above the sixth grade not being able to attend school.

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Munir, during his visit to Khost province, stated that girls' schools had been shut down due to cultural constraints. "People are not sensitive to the education of their girls, but to their girls leaving the house, and the culture of Afghans is quite sensitive in this area. You know better that the Islamic Emirate is attempting to reach an agreement with the people and start this process," he said, reported Tolo News.

However, in stark contrast to what Munir said, the Taliban-appointed Deputy Minister of Education Sayed Ahmad Shahidkhail on Sunday noted that the delay in reopening girls' schools was caused by problems in the curriculum for girls.

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Munir denied these reports that the closure of the girls' schools was caused by the change in the curriculum which suggests that even people inside of the so-called department are not on the same page. Munir said that the Afghan curriculum has issues and that there is currently no plan to change it.

"We have never said that we would begin working on the curriculum right away. Bringing changes to the curriculum is the right of every nation, people, and every government," he stated.

"Three times work has been done on the available curriculum, still this issue has not been completed. God willing, we are responsible to our people over this issue, whether it is a man or a woman," said Sayed Ahmad Shahidkhail.

Munir admits that more than 5,000 of the 20,000 schools in the country do not have buildings and need reconstruction and renovation, as per the media portal.

Earlier, the Taliban claimed that the closing of girls' schools above sixth grade was "temporary" adding that it was not a "permanent ban."In an interview with CGTN TV, the spokesman of the Foreign Ministry, Abdul Qahar Balkhi said, "this suspension is a temporary suspension, and it is not a permanent ban, it has never been called a ban."Defending the Taliban, he said that the strict views of most Afghan people on the issue of education and women caused the girls' schools to remain closed, reported Tolo News."There is a large percentage of society that has very strict ideas of what women can do and what they cannot do, and for that reason, the government is trying to take an approach that is gradual, it takes those people that do not understand some of the basic Islamic rights of Afghan citizens or of any human being, and the human rights, to try to convince them. It is due to lack of knowledge of that part of the society," he said.Balkhi added that they are trying to solve this problem.Meanwhile, girls who have been prevented from going to school for more than eleven months are asking the Taliban to reopen schools for them, reported Tolo News."When women are not allowed to see a namhram, then who should treat a woman when she gets sick?" asked Fariha, a student.

"It is very disappointing and we ask the Islamic Emirate to reopen our schools," said a student."If a government wants to have a progressive and developed society, there is no other way except with education and interaction with the community," said Waheeda Adalatjo, university lecturer.It has been over 300 days since girls' schools have been closed, Kabul's officials have said that it depends upon the order of the leader of the Taliban.The Taliban regime in Afghanistan has drawn heavy criticism across the world for a decree banning girls from school above grade sixth. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Beijing, Aug 9 (AP) The top South Korean and Chinese diplomats pledged Thursday to develop closer relations and maintain stable industrial supply chains at a time of deepening rivalry between Beijing and Washington.

South Korea, a longtime U.S. ally, is struggling to strike a balance between Washington and the increasingly assertive foreign policy of Chinese President Xi Jinping's government. U.S.-Chinese conflict over Taiwan has added to complications for governments that want amicable ties with both sides.

Also Read | Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos and Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates Funding Massive Treasure Hunt in Greenland.

Foreign Ministers Park Jin and Wang Yi, in separate statements, called for the development of relations based on successful three-decade-old commercial ties. They were meeting in the eastern Chinese city of Qingdao.

Park and Wang gave no indication they discussed tensions over last week's visit by Speaker Nancy Pelosi of the U.S. House of Representatives to self-ruled Taiwan, which the mainland's ruling Communist Party claims as its own territory. Beijing retaliated by conducting military drills to intimidate the island and called off dialogue with Washington on climate change and other issues.

Also Read | Meta AI Chatbot BlenderBot 3 Says Mark Zuckerberg Is 'Too Creepy' and Trump Will Always Be US President.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who took office in March, wants to improve security ties with Washington and Japan in response to North Korean nuclear threats. China, North Korea's main ally, sees Japan as a strategic rival but also is South Korea's biggest export market.

Pelosi visited South Korea last week, but Yoon, who was on vacation, talked to her by phone instead of face to face. His critics accused him of avoiding seeing her to protect relations with China.

Park and Wang called for maintaining stable industry supply chains, a possible reference to fears that Chinese technology policy and U.S. security controls might split the world into separate markets with incompatible standards and products, slowing innovation and raising costs.

Park expressed hope the two sides will increase cooperation based on universal values and standards. He said they should overcome new challenges posed by a great transition in international society but gave no details.

Park appealed to Beijing to help persuade North Korea to return to talks on its nuclear weapons program, which he called an unprecedented threat to peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Wang's statement didn't mention the nuclear issue and gave no indication whether he said what Beijing might do. The South Korean Foreign Ministry declined to say what Wang told Park.

Park also expressed hope that Xi, the Chinese leader, would visit South Korea. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chandigarh, Aug 9: Simranjit Singh Mann, a proponent for a separate Sikh homeland and SAD (Amritsar) MP from Sangrur, has kicked up a row by asking people to hoist 'kesari' or Sikh religious flags atop their houses on Independence Day in place of the national flag as part of the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign.

In a message, Mann appealed to the people to hoist saffron flags and Nishan Sahib on their houses on August 14 and 15. Punjab Minister Slams Simranjit Singh Mann for Calling Bhagat Singh 'terrorist'

The Nishan Sahib flag is a symbol of Sikh religion.

Earlier this week, Mann had tweeted, "Best tribute to the 75th anniversary of Independence would be to liberate Ladakh from China rather than fluttering flags. Besides, provide food and shelter to the poor. If Nancy Pelosi could do it, so can the politicos and generals. Facta Non Verba."

Mann's statement on flags has evoked strong reactions from different political parties.

Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has criticised a section of radical leadership for trying to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere in the state.

Reacting to a call by these leaders, including by Mann, who recently took an oath under the Constitution, Warring said such actions are clearly meant to vitiate the hard-earned peace in Punjab.

He said the tricolour is a national symbol and every Indian should respect it.

"Nobody stops anyone from displaying 'kesari' flag atop their houses and every Sikh is and should be proud of the 'kesari' colour as it is the symbol of the ever great and glorious spirit of Khalsa," Warring said.

The tricolour is the national symbol of India's Independence and it deserves to be respected and honoured, he added.

"Tens of thousands of people, most of them Punjabis and Sikhs, have laid down their lives to safeguard the honour of the tricolour and those trying to disrespect it are disrespecting our own martyrs and their martyrdom," Warring said.

Reacting to Mann's statement, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the country has been freed from the British after sacrifices made by "our forefathers".

"Those opposing the tricolour have taken oath under the Constitution," he said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 09, 2022 06:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Patna, August 9: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has sought an appointment with Governor Phagu Chauhan at 4 pm, sources close to the development said, even as parallel meetings of the JD(U) that helms government and opposition RJD are on here amid speculations of a major political upheaval in the state.

The meeting of JD(U) MPs and MLAs is continuing at the chief minister's official residence, party sources said. JD(U) sources said Kumar is unlikely to resign from chief minister-ship and may simply seek to replace BJP ministers with those of other parties, which may support his party in continuing the government. Bihar CM Nitish Kumar to Meet Governor Phagu Chauhan At 4 PM Today Amid Political Crisis in State.

A parallel meeting of the RJD legislators convened by party leader Tejashwi Yadav at his mother Rabri Devi's Circular Road bungalow, a stone's throw from the CM's residence, is likely to endorse joining the JD(U)-led coalition. Currently, BJP holds 77 seats in the Bihar Assembly. JD(U) holds 45, the Congress 19, the Left led by CPIML(L) has 16 and the RJD 79.
US Special Envoy Jessica Stern will travel to Nepal from 10th-14th August and India from 23rd-27th August. During her visits, she will meet with government officials and other stakeholders to discuss advancing the human rights of LGBTQI+ persons in each country and regionally. ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2022

(SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)
International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples 2022 is celebrated on Tuesday, 9 August, to pay respect to the rights of native communities of the world. The occasion highlights the role of indigenous peoples and the significance of preserving their fundamental rights, communities, and the gathered knowledge that they passed on for centuries. International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples's theme this year is "The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge." To mark the international event, netizens took to Twitter to share messages, quotes, wishes and images.

World's Indigenous Peoples' Day 2022

The International Day of the Worlds Indigenous Peoples is celebrated globally on 9 August. It marks the date of the inaugural session of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations in#__ pic.twitter.com/QphKxvjoej  SAI (@saithoeasykadhu) August 9, 2022

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples Tweets

Today is the International Day of the Worlds Indigenous Peoples & this year the focus is on women. Were celebrating the unlimited potential of Indigenous women - the matriarchs, the mothers, the future leaders & the knowledge keepers. #WeAreIndigenous #IndigenousPeoplesDay pic.twitter.com/XGmM66wAFo  Abhishek Valvi (@Abhishekvalvi34) August 9, 2022

Messages For International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples

On the occasion of International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, let's raise awareness & protect the rights of the world's indigenous population. Happy International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. pic.twitter.com/LZgT1qDLHJ  Dr. Kashyap Prakash (@DrPKashyap) August 9, 2022

World's Indigenous Peoples Quotes

The centuries-old tribal diversity of India has played a significant role in preserving the rich and cultural identity of India.On the occasion of International Day of the Worlds Indigenous Peoples, let us acknowledge the contributions of our tribes#WorldIndigenousPeoplesDay pic.twitter.com/RbxNpCqbwu  Atul (@dratulgavit24) August 9, 2022

World's Indigenous Peoples' Day Wishes

its international day of the worlds indigenous peoples!!! this years theme is the role of indigenous women in the preservation and transmission of traditional knowledge. today (and everyday) we acknowledge indigenous women, the true backbone of indigenous communities.   biau (@biaujdunn) August 9, 2022

(SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)
After Google services such as YouTube, Maps, Search, and Docs, among others, were down for many global users, netizens took to Twitter to express anger and share funny memes. In no time, the #googledown hashtag started to trend on the micro-blogging platform as users left no stone unturned to make the most of Google Outage. Later, the global tech giant acknowledged the issue and said that the outage was due to a software update problem.

Check tweet:

me trying to fix the google servers by myself #googledown pic.twitter.com/vWevqAxz5Z  alex (@lfcalexx6) August 9, 2022

Netizens check Twitter to confirm Google outage

Everyone running to Twitter to see if Google crashed #googledown pic.twitter.com/0GBs7Pxp2K  Reject Hollywood, embrace Indie. (@nerdgeekman) August 9, 2022

Some users even experienced 500 error

Me switching to twitter after experiencing error 500 in google#Google #googledown pic.twitter.com/hu4TMsB2K5  1038 (@remier_acbang) August 9, 2022

Cannot google search it says user

Me omw to twitter to check if google is down for anyone else since I cant google search it #googledown pic.twitter.com/g797tcAv1q  Ur mom (@bigfatBUSSY6) August 9, 2022

This one definitely made us laugh

My google stopped working yet i still googled if it was down Guess it still works #googledown pic.twitter.com/BDTYNCFohq  Seto | Vtuber | RAFFLE PINNED (@SobekVT) August 9, 2022

(SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)
Washington, Aug 9: Some of the world's richest men, including Jeff Bezos and Bill Gates, are funding a massive treasure hunt, complete with helicopters and transmitters, on the west coast of Greenland.

The climate crisis is melting Greenland down at an unprecedented rate, which -- in a twist of irony -- is creating an opportunity for investors and mining companies who are searching for a trove of critical minerals capable of powering the green energy transition, CNN reported. Jeff Bezos Officially Retires, Andy Jassy Takes Over As the New Amazon CEO

The band of billionaires, which also include Michael Bloomberg, among others, is betting that below the surface of the hills and valleys on Greenland's Disko Island and Nuussuaq Peninsula there are enough critical minerals to power hundreds of millions of electric vehicles.

"We are looking for a deposit that will be the first- or second-largest most significant nickel and cobalt deposit in the world," Kurt House, CEO of Kobold Metals, told CNN.

The Arctic's disappearing ice -- on land and in the ocean -- highlights a unique dichotomy: Greenland is ground zero for the impacts of climate change, but it could also become ground zero for sourcing the metals needed to power the solution to the crisis.

The billionaire club is financially backing Kobold Metals, a mineral exploration company and California-based startup, the company's representatives told CNN.

Kobold is partnered with Bluejay Mining to find the rare and precious metals in Greenland that are necessary to build electric vehicles and massive batteries to store renewable energy.

Thirty geologists, geophysicists, cooks, pilots and mechanics are camped at the site where Kobold and Blujay are searching for the buried treasure.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 09, 2022 04:18 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
Two men squatted before a freshly dug stretch of earth in a public cemetery here as traffic buzzed by on the adjacent highway.

They had just buried their 18-year-old brother, Seyyed Zia Hoseyni. His photograph poked out of a bundle of flowers.

Hoseyni joined hundreds, perhaps thousands, of Afghans who were killed in Syria after enlisting in Irans effort to bolster the embattled forces of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

Nearly all are from Afghanistans Hazara minority. As Shiite Muslims, they fled to Iran in hopes that it would be more hospitable than Afghanistan, where they faced religious persecution and the economic hardships of a country racked by war and terrorism.

But they wound up embroiled in another war. The Iranian government has relied heavily on the Afghan immigrants, sending them to battle in greater numbers than it does Iranians in the Revolutionary Guard.

Hazara fighters can be found on the cobblestone walkways of the famed old quarter of Damascus. Busloads of them were visiting the shrine of Ruqayya, a Shiite holy site, while a reporter was there last year. The majority were on their way to heavy clashes in the northwestern province of Idlib.

Many Hazaras have few options but to enlist. Those caught sneaking across the Afghan-Iranian border are often presented with a stark choice: Go to jail and face deportation, or fight in Syria for a few months and gain legal residence in Iran.

Other Hazaras, drawn by the pay or their religious and political beliefs, join the Fatemiyoun Division, an all-Afghan Shiite militia named for the prophet Muhammads youngest daughter and trained by the Revolutionary Guard.

Some of its original members are veterans of Afghanistans brutal war against the Soviet occupation during the 1980s or Irans war against Iraq that same decade. Iranian news outlets say it has grown to 20,000 men.

The presence of the Fatemiyoun Division in Syria conveys the message that geographical borders do not exist for the fighters of this unit, who assist whenever Shiite Muslims  are endangered  be it in Syria or Iraq, the news agency Tasnim reported in June.

Gol-Mohammad Mohammadi, a 23-year-old Hazara fighter. (Ramin Mostaghim / For The Times)

Gol-Mohammad Mohammadi, a 23-year-old Hazara who never learned to read and had been working as a construction worker, said he joined the unit last year.

Once he signed on, he learned how to fire Kalashnikov rifles, rocket-propelled grenades and other light weapons. The training lasted 25 days and was conducted at the Martyr Pazouki military base in the city of Qom, he said.

Shepherded by an officer from the Revolutionary Guard, he and 15 other Afghans flew from Tehrans Imam Khomeini Airport to Damascus, the Syrian capital. From there they headed to the ancient city of Palmyra, which was captured by Islamic State militants last year.

Mohammadi said he was part of a major offensive by pro-government forces, backed by Russian air power, that took back the city in March. He stayed in Syria for 54 days.

Back in Tehran on leave, he said he was counting the days to go back to the battlefield and missed his fellow combatants there.

As a laborer, Mohammadi earned roughly $600 every two months. As a soldier in Syria, he made more than double that  about $1,500 for his deployment. He sent his pay to his sister and five brothers in central Afghanistan.

Some of the fighters have criminal records and are paid only a subsistence wage, several sources said. Those with better education or prior training can receive as much as $800 a month.

Mohammad Gholami, a worker in a shoe factory in Qom who is also studying law, said his cousin has earned good money fighting in Syria. He was recruited early this year in the eastern city of Mashhad.

Because he had been already in Afghan army, he didnt need training, Gholami said. He said he has no desire to join the war and hopes to eventually return to Afghanistan to help my own people.

For many fighters, money is only part of the motivation to join the war effort. Another is religious fervor, a sense of taking part in a cataclysmic battle against Sunni Muslim extremists and defending Shiite holy sites in Syria.

Hazara fight in Syria to defend the shrines of Sayyida Zainab and Ruqayya, said Mohammad Amiri, a 45-year-old Afghan cleric living in Qom.

Sayyida Zainab, a mausoleum of blue tile, gold and mirrors 10 miles from downtown Damascus, is a frequent target of Islamic State militants and other Sunni insurgents, who view Shiites as apostates who must be killed.

We dont care about Bashar al-Assads regime, Amiri said. We fight for the cause of the Shiites against Daesh  a derogatory Arabic acronym for Islamic State.

Their participation has exacerbated problems for the Hazaras back in Afghanistan, who make up roughly 10% of the population and have long been oppressed. Last month, suicide bombers attacked a Hazara protest in Kabul, the Afghan capital, killing more than 80 people. Islamic State claimed responsibility and said the operation was a response to Hazaras killing the Sunnis in the land of Syria.

In the Iranian media, both the Hazara and Iranians who die in Syria are revered as defenders of the holy shrines.

But some Hazaras feel marginalized in Iran. Iranians see the Hazara as cannon fodder, said Hassan, a 50-year-old sheik in Qom who refused to give his full name for fear of retribution by Iranian security forces.

The government, he said, feared the wrath of public opinion if Iranian fighters were killed in high numbers. If Iranians were captured, there would be pressure to release prisoners held by Iran in exchange.

If the Hazara are the Muslim Shiite brethren of Iranians, he said, then why are they the least important people in the devastating civil war in Syria?

Hazaras who are killed in battle are buried in segregated areas of Iranian cemeteries.

Back at the grave of Hoseyni, one of his brothers choked up as he explained that the family was still waiting for answers about how he was killed.

My parents are too sad to come and are mourning at home, he said. Ill stay with the grave.

Mostaghim and Bulos are special correspondents.

ALSO

Report documents horrific torture in Syrian prisons

Soldiers on both sides see the fight for Aleppo as a battle between jihadists

Haunting image of boy in an Aleppo ambulance captures plight of children caught in Syrian war
The blaze within a big oil tank farm in the western province of Matanzas in Cuba spread to a third tank on Monday, as firefighters still struggle to contain the fire. The fire started on Friday night after lightning struck one of the eight tanks within the facility.

The fire then spread to a second tank on Saturday, and it triggered several explosions. Firefighters tried spraying water on the other tanks to cool them and help prevent the spread of the fire. With the fire already reaching the third tank, it seems that the effort was not enough.

According to NBC News, Governor Mario Sabines of Matanzas said that the fire spreading to the second tank may have likely led to the third tank being compromised.

One firefighter, identified as Juan Carlos Santana, 60, died, with 17 more missing, A total of 125 are injured.

Intense Temperatures Making Search for Missing Firefighters More Complicated

Firefighters are still struggling to contain the blaze, which has forced over 4,900 people living near the Matanzas Supertanker Base in Matanzas city to evacuate. This came as Mexico and Venezuela sent their own special contingents of firefighters, armed with special firefighting gear, in helping control the blaze. The foreign contingents also sent in water cannons, planes, and helicopters to help in putting out the fire

Temperatures within the facility have become intense. So intense that both Governor Sabines and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel admitted it was impossible to search for the missing firefighters because of how hot it has become.

Many were treated for burns, while others were treated for smoke inhalation. Five of those injured remain in critical condition, while 24 are still hospitalized, being treated for their injuries.

Relatives of the missing firefighters gathered at a nearby hotel, still awaiting news on their loved ones, according to the Washington Post.

READ MORE: Cuba, Mexico, Venezuela Join Forces to Stop Massive Fire in Oil Tank Farm

Environmental Damage and Deepening of Cuba's Energy Woes

Time Magazine reported that Provincial Governor Mario Sabines confirmed that they have already evacuated 4,946 people from around the Dubrocq neighborhood, which is located around the Matanzas Supertanker Base. However, the fires may affect the entire country.

Cuba is currently facing a deep economic and energy crisis due to a fuel shortage. The fire at the facility, which uses oil to generate electricity for Cuba, may further that energy crisis. The first tank was only at 50% capacity and contained nearly 883,000 cubic feet of fuel. However, with the loss of the second and third tanks, it is now unclear how much fuel will be lost.

Cuba currently suffers from daily power outages in order to save fuel.

There will also be some damage to the environment as well. The Ministry of Science and Technology said that the fire has caused dense black smoke to billow from the area, and it has spread over 62 miles to Havana. It contains several harmful and toxic substances, such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide.

READ MORE: Cuba: Latin Grammy Winner and Dissident Artist Sentenced to Prison

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Search Continues After Cuban Oil Facility Fire Leaves 1 Dead, Multiple Missing
SNAP benefits EBT payments online will be made easier after Forage, a payments processor, raised $22 million in a funding round that included Instacart's founder.

The new funding will be used for product development and hiring, according to a Win Sight Grocery Business report.

Forage co-founder and CEO Ofek Lavian said the collected money will help ramp up the company's mission to "democratize access to government benefits." The funding round was led by finance-technology firm Nyca, along with PayPal ventures, EO Ventures, and Instacart's Apoorva Mehta.

Lavian added that they are proud of the technology they have built and are looking forward to expand the SNAP EBT payments online for low-income U.S. citizens.

SNAP benefits 2022 are used through Electronic Benefits Transfer cards. It allows recipients to pay for food using SNAP benefits, with it being in use in all 50 states.

READ NEXT: Stimulus Check 2022: $300 Per Month Child Tax Credit Extension Fails in Senate Voting

EBT Payments Online

Forage said in a press release that SNAP benefits are accepted in 250,000 brick-and-mortar locations through the EBT card. However, only a small percentage have been approved to accept EBT payments online, as reported by PYMNTS.

Tom Brown, partner at Nyca Partners, a FinTech specialist firm that led the funding round, said Forage is addressing a "critical problem for consumers and merchants" with more customers buying their goods online.

Forage added that the 42 million American recipients who receive SNAP benefits 2022 lack easy access to grocery stores or still physical stores due to the COVID-19.

Forage's move was announced after Instacart announced that it will be expanding its EBT payments online by offering the service to 10 new states.

Instacart said in their announcement that its decision will benefit almost 30 million Americans dealing with food insecurity, offering them in-store shopping and curbside pick-up.

SNAP Benefits 2022

SNAP benefits in California, called CalFresh, will be among the states to distribute the benefit this August.

Go Banking Rates reported that California also participates in the Restaurant Meals Program, which is an option that allows recipients to buy prepared meals at restaurants with their SNAP benefits.

Certain standards apply in RMP. To be eligible, one must be age 60 or older, disabled, homeless, or the spouse of a SNAP recipient who is qualified for the RMP.

CalFresh benefits are commonly released over the first 10 days of each month. The schedule depends on the last digit of the recipients' case number. The average benefit per household member per month is at $141 while the number of recipients is projected to be around 3.79 million.

Meanwhile, Colorado has a monthly average benefit per household member worth $128, with the number of recipients were approximately 450,000.

Florida also offers an average benefit per household member per month worth $127 with the number of recipients in the state seen to be around 2.85 million, as reported by another Go Banking Rates.

Meanwhile, Texas has an average benefit per household member worth $125.

READ MORE: Stimulus Check 2022: $250 Payments in New Mexico Coming Soon, Delayed Rebates Being Resolved

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: How to Use Your EBT Card - from Virginiadss


Former Robb Elementary School Principal Mandy Gutierrez has recently accepted a new job in the Uvalde School District Board following her removal from her initial post at the school.

Gutierrez was previously placed on administrative leave with pay after a probe on the Uvalde School shooting revealed her negligence and mismanagement on the school premises that led to the shooter's access to the school.

Meanwhile, former Uvalde High School assistant Principal Christy Perez will be taking over the position following Gutierrez's transfer.

Ex-Robb Elementary School Principal Mandy Gutierrez Takes New Role on Uvalde School Board

In a press release dated August 5, the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District (CISD) has finally released a new memo stating the new changes the district will implement in the upcoming school year 2022-2023.

Per the document, Mandy Gutierrez will be taking a new position at the Uvalde CISD as Assistant Director for Special Education. It was stated that Gutierrez is now fulfilling her desire to support special education students across the district.

Administration for the 2022... by Alondra Moon

Last July, Gutierrez was placed on administrative leave with pay after a Texas House committee investigation reveals that then-Principal Gutierrez has known about the faulty lock on Room 111, where the gunman entered the school.

Despite numerous reports from the classroom teacher, Gutierrez has not prepared a work order to have the lock fixed.

READ NEXT: Texas Department of Public Safety Facing Legal Heat Over Alleged Witholding of Uvalde Shooting Docs

Aside from this, Gutierrez never attempted to use the school's intercom system to give caution to other members of the student body and faculty that a gunman has entered the school promises.

Gutierrez, however, pointed out that she used an app called Raptor instead to start a lockdown. But of all times and places, she had difficulty making an alert and initiating it because of poor wi-fi signal, costing more lives endangered.

The former Uvalde elementary principal was the third among the key officers on that day who were placed on administrative leave since the shooting happened.

Lt. Mariano Pargas, the acting City Police Chief at the time, and Uvalde CISD Pete Arredondo, were also placed on the same status.

Meanwhile, the spot for the principal position at Robb Elementary School is filled immediately.

Uvalde High School Assistant Principal Takes Over New Job as Robb Elementary School's Principal

In the same press release that the Uvalde CISD released last week, Uvalde High School Assistant Principal Christy Perez will be filling in the spot that Mandy Gutierrez has vacated.

The CISD is confident on Perez's credentials would match the new role she would be taking over. It was noted that her background as both a teacher and a counselor will be "invaluable in ensuring students have the support they need during the upcoming school year.

Meanwhile, the board is also planning to offer a virtual learning mode for students this year after parents expressed worry on returning to the campus.

READ MORE: Texas School Shooting: Here's Why Termination Hearing for Uvalde School District Police Chief Pete Arredondo Was Postponed Again

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ivan Korrs

WATCH: Mandy Gutierrez, former Robb Elementary principal, reassigned to new position - From WFAA
Former U.S. President Donald Trump released a statement saying that FBI agents "raided" his Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Florida.

NBC News reported that the former president further claimed that the Federal Bureau of Investigation's presence in his home was unannounced and that it was "politically motivated." Trump did not provide further details.

In Trump's email statement, he claimed that the occurrences "are dark times for our Nation." The statement was issued by his Save America political committee.

The former president said that the FBI agents even broke into his safe, adding that the raid on his home was "not necessary or appropriate."

A person knowledgeable about the matter noted that the law enforcement agency is not disputing that it searched the former president.

READ NEXT: Donald Trump's Lawyers in Touch With Justice Department Regarding January 6 Criminal Probe

Trump's Mar-a-Lago Home Raid

Sources said that the search appeared to be focused on material that Donald Trump had brought with him to Mar-a-Lago when he left the White House at the end of his presidency, according to The New York Times report. The boxes reportedly contained many pages of classified documents.

Gov. Kristi Noem of South Dakota noted that the FBI search of the former president's home was an "unprecedented political" use of the Justice Department. Noem wrote that using the department in this manner is "un-America." The lawmaker is known to be a Trump ally.

Meanwhile, the January 6 select committee has refused to comment on the matter, saying that there is a need to learn more about the visit to Trump's Mar-a-Lago home.

Trump claimed that the FBI's move was supported by Democrats who "desperately" do not want him to run for reelection in 2024.

Al Jazeera report noted that the former president was not in his Mar-a-Lago home when the FBI agents arrived. At the time, he was seen leaving Trump Tower in New York City, where he also has a residence.

Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson refused to comment on whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had allowed the search.

Meanwhile, The New York Times reported that U.S. President Joe Biden's top aides discovered the FBI search from reports on Twitter and had no advance notice, according to a Democratic source.

Donald Trump and White House documents

The raid was reportedly a result of an inquiry that discovered the former president bringing home 15 boxes of White House documents containing mementos, gifts, and letters.

The National Archives maintained that the boxes include materials subjected to the Presidential Records Act.

The National Archives archivists found documents containing "items marked as classified national security information" after Trump returned the boxes.

White House aides noted that Trump would often tear up documents, which later had to be taped together.

The Presidential Records Act required all communications about presidential duties to be reserved.

The archives department had referred the occurrence to the Justice Department.

Trump is also being investigated for possible illegal business practices, his role in the January 6 Capitol riot, and his attempts to distort the results of U.S. elections in 2020.

READ MORE: Donald Trump Admits He Didn't Win Presidential Election 2020 During Interview With Presidential Historians

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Mar-A-Lago raided by FBI agents, according to Trump - from CNBC Television


The violence in Haiti continues as a former Haitian senator was killed alongside his nephew in an upscale neighborhood near the capital, Port-au-Prince. The former senator was identified as Yvon Buissereth. He worked for the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor.

Government Commissioner Jacques Lafontant told the Associated Press last Sunday that the gang did not just kill the former senator and his nephew, but also burned their bodies. It happened in the Laboule community, which is near where President Jovenel Moise was assassinated, inside his private home in Pelerin last July.

His nephew was identified as Ronald Joseph Monplaisir.

Yvon Buissereth and Nephew Killed in an Area in the Middle of a Turf War

According to Lafontant, Buissereth was traveling with his nephew in a government-issued vehicle. Their remains were found inside a charred car and said that a gang trying to control the area is likely to blame. He called their deaths a "terrible incident."

There are two gangs currently vying for supremacy in the area, but one is the likeliest to have killed the former senator and his nephew. According to the Haitian Times, members of the Ti Makak gang, which means "Little Macaques," are the likely culprits. They are currently fighting a turf war with the Toto gang over control of that area.

Haitians usually avoid traveling in that area due to gang violence and ongoing turf wars. Armed bandits also roam the area. The motives for the attacks are still unclear, according to authorities.

The former senator was serving as the current director general of the State Administration for the Promotion of Social Housing (EPPLS). The Caribbean National Weekly reported that Prime Minister Ariel Henry condemned his and his nephew's killings, and called it a "barbaric act." He vowed to have them "prosecuted to the full extent of the law."

READ MORE: Haiti Gang Accused of Burning Courthouse

Gang Violence Still Rising in Haiti

Gang violence was not really that big in Haiti. However, everything changed with the assassination of former Haitian President Jovenel Moise. Gang activity and violence erupted in the Caribbean country, and it has even shut down once-busy main roads. This includes the Martissant area where Buissereth and his nephew were killed. It connects Port-au-Prince with Haiti's southern region and is currently being controlled by warring gangs.

Gang violence has spiraled out of control, and the Haitian National Police have been overwhelmed. Resources are short in the island nation, and it only has 12,800 active police officers serving around 11 million people. They were simply outmanned and outgunned, and there were not enough of them to contend with all the gangs which poured out since the former president's assassination.

The United States and other countries are currently providing training and resources for the country's overwhelmed police force. For now, gangs are still rampant. The gang violence is also to blame for the recent surge in Haitian migrants trying to flee to the United States. They often brave harsh conditions and rough seas to escape the country in search of a better and safer life.

READ NEXT: Haiti: 17 Migrants Dead After Boat Turns Over in the Bahamas During Human Smuggling Attempt

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Gangs strangle Haiti's capital as violence soars - Associated Press
Family of Gabby Petito has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Utah police after they failed to recognize that Petito was in a life-threatening situation when she had a fight with her boyfriend, Brian Laundrie.

The Petito family is suing Utah police for $50 million. The officers allowed Petito and Laundrie to leave ordering them to spend a night apart, according to a Daily Mail report. Petito was shown to be visibly upset after the police body camera recorded the police's encounter with the couple.

Attorney James McConkie said in a statement that if the officer has been properly trained and followed the law, Petito would be allowed today.

Notices of claims are necessary before people can sue government bodies. Petito's family claim said that the lawsuit will seek $50 million in damages.

Meanwhile, Moab officials have yet to comment on the announcement of the lawsuit.

The lawsuit was filed by Utah personal inquiry law firm Parker and McConkey. It was on behalf of Joseph and Tara Petito, including Nichole and Jim Schmidt.

READ NEXT: Brian Laundrie May Have Made 2 Other Confessions Regarding Gabby Petito's Death Aside From Shocking Revelation in His Notebook

Gabby Petito Murdered

Petito's family's lawsuit accuses the police department, three Utah police officers, and 10 other unnamed individuals of "negligent failure" during an investigation.

The lawsuit also noted that Petito's death was caused by the police department's "wrongful acts or neglect," according to an Independent report.

Petito's remains were found near the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming on September 19 last year.

Officials searched after a month-long nationwide search for her.

Investigators determined she had been strangled by her boyfriend, Laundrie, who later admitted killing her in a confession note he left before taking his own life in a Florida swamp.

Utah police pulled over the couple after receiving a 911 call from a witness saying they had seen Laundrie hitting Petito.

Laundrie was released at the time without charge and the couple was separated for one night before being allowed to continue on their cross-country trip.

A separate investigation into police failures regarding the case also discovered that Petito was very likely a "long-term victim of domestic violence."

Brian Laundrie as The Suspect

The Laundrie family attorney, Steve Bertolino, wished the Petito family's "best of luck" with regards to their wrongful death lawsuit against the Utah police.

Fox News noted that Bertolino does not believe that the officers involved did anything wrong.

Bertolino said that he was speaking on his own behalf and not for Chris or Roberta Laundrie.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation in Denver said in a statement that Laundrie had already admitted to killing Petito.

FBI Denver Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Schneider said that the investigation did not identify any other individuals other than Laundrie directly involved in the death of Petito, according to Rolling Stone.

Laundrie had taken his own life with a gunshot to the head. He was discovered in November in a nature preserve near his parents' Florida home.

His remains were found with a notebook and other belongings.

READ MORE: Florida Judge Invokes Johnny Depp Verdict During Hearing of Gabby Petito's Family Lawsuit Against Brian Laundrie's Parents

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Written by: Joshua Summers

WATCH: Full press conference: Gabby Petito's family announces $50M wrongful death lawsuit against Moab, Utah - from FOX 13 Tampa Bay


Robert Costello, the lawyer for embattled former New York City mayor and Donald Trump's lawyer Rudy Giuliani, said his client will not be appearing before a special grand jury in Atlanta.

Giuliani was scheduled to appear Tuesday before the special grand jury, which is currently investigating Trump's attempts to interfere in the 2020 general election in Georgia.

Costello told the Associated Press Monday that Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney had already excused Rudy Giuliani for the day. However, no publicly available court documents indicated that Giuliani was excused from appearing.

Rudy Giuliani Seeking to Delay Probe

Judge Robert McBurney has scheduled a hearing for 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday to hear arguments on Rudy Giuliani's court filing to seek a delay for his appearance in court. On Monday, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis asked the judge to deny that request.

According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution , Giuliani is seeking to delay the hearing because he is currently recovering from a recent medical procedure. His lawyers have submitted doctors' notes that he recently had a "recent invasive procedure" after a "complex artery diagnosis" and isn't yet cleared for air travel.

The filing noted that the District Attorney's office has turned down requests for Giuliani to appear virtually or wait until he is medically cleared to fly to Atlanta.

Attorney Bill Thomas, one of the former New York City mayor's lawyers, said Giuliani does not seek to "inappropriately delay, or obstruct these proceedings."

However, the Georgia DA's Office noted that the doctor's note came a day after Giuliani tweeted a smiling photo of himself with a reporter in New Hampshire.

When Thomas said Giuliani had been driven to New Hampshire since he was not cleared for air travel, the DA's Office said they also offered to pay for Giuliani's train or bus fare.

They also presented evidence that Giuliani purchased airline tickets to Italy and Switzerland for dates in late July, which were scheduled shortly after his medical procedure. However, it does not specify if the former mayor used these tickets.

Based on the gathered evidence, the District Attorney asked the court to deny Rudy Giuliani's motion and ordered him to appear before the special grand jury.

READ NEXT: Georgia Files Subpoena for Rudy Giuliani and Lindsey Graham in Trump Election Probe

Rudy Giuliani Ordered to Appear Before Georgia Grand Jury by the New York Supreme Court

New York State Supreme Court Justice Thomas Farber ordered Rudy Giuliani to appear before the Georgia special grand jury after he failed to show up during a July 13 hearing.

The former New York City mayor was ordered to appear before the grand jury beginning on August 9 and any such dates that the court may order.

According to Forbes, the order came a few weeks after the Georgia special grand jury subpoenaed Giuliani. He previously failed to appear at a hearing in New York to challenge the subpoena.

Also included in the subpoena are fellow Trump lawyers Jenna Ellis, Cleta Mitchell, and Kenneth Chesebro, as well as the embattled conservative legal scholar John Eastman, who suggested to Donald Trump that former Vice President Mike Pence could overturn the election results.

They also issued a subpoena for Republican Senator Lindsey Graham for his phone call in trying to reverse the Georgia election results.

READ MORE: January 6 Committee Says Mike Pence and Ginni Thomas Could Be Subpoenaed

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Rudy Giuliani's Grand Jury Appearance Delayed in Fulton County - From 11 Alive
A number of Kildare publicans have reacted to the stark findings in a recent report from the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (Digi).

The report, which was published on August 4 last, showed that a fifth of pubs (1,829 pubs) in Ireland have permanently shut since 2005.

Furthermore, the report was found that a total of 349 bars closed during the pandemic.

In the context of Kildare, the county has seen a 13.6 per cent decline in the number of pubs still operating.

Commenting on this finding, Sinead Ronan, the public affairs manager at County Kildare Chamber (CKC), said: "We have seen across Kildare a decrease in the number of pubs in the county.

"The decline does seem to correlate with the increases in the number of people drinking at home, with the sharpest decline happening during the Covid-19 pandemic, where a number of harsh restrictions impacted directly on the pub and restaurant trade particularly."

Ms Ronan added that Kildare is also seeing a problem regarding staff retention in the hospitality sector  which is becoming a significant problem.

She explained: "This will continue to be an issue in the weeks and months ahead and something the Chamber is vocalising with key stakeholders on a regular basis."

"This will form part of our Pre-Budget 2023 Submission, which we will launch later this week."

Kavanagh's Pub Naas. Pic: kavanaghspubnaas on Instagram

Neil Farragher of Kavanaghs pub in Naas also commented on the findings in the Digi report, saying that he believes the decrease is due to a myriad of factors.

These include greater awareness and caution surrounding drink driving, the introduction of the 2004 smoking ban, customers choosing pubs with food offerings and the pandemic.

However, he stressed that the last factor was not unique to Kildare, and was instead a nationwide one.

Mr Farragher added: "I do think that the changes regarding food in pubs and outside dining are for the better.

"Peoples standards regarding food and drinks, and pubs that serve food and drink, have gone up and Ireland has become more food-centric."

McGowan's pub/Apollo nightclub in Newbridge

Michael McGowan of McGowans pub/Apollo nightclub in Newbridge also gave his thoughts on the issue, telling the Leader that transport and infrastructure facilities in Kildare were an issue, adding: 'they are not the best'.

He also expressed concern about the rising costs involved with running a pub.

Mr McGowan explained: "The government has been excellent in helping pubs during the pandemic, but the costs across all industries are increasing.

"It is for this reason that some people are, for example, only going out one night a week to the pub instead of two nights a week.

"Its the same reason why we dont open the pub in Newbridge on Mondays, Tuesdays or Wednesdays, the cost is just too much."

Mr McGowan said he would be in favour of a decrease in excise duties, referring to the governments introduction of excise reduction on cider last year.

He also pointed to the 'minimal level' of excise duties charged to pubs based in Spain.

Mr McGowan further said that the Ukraine crisis was a large factor in why costs surrounding gas and electricity have gone up.

He continued: "I know that my personal costs for running my business have gone up by 50 to 60 per cent, due to the crisis and the pandemic.

"But even without Covid-19, costs have been increasing, and I can see more pubs closing down in the future if this trend continues."

Judge Roy Beans in Newbridge

Vivian Carroll of Judge Roy Beans in Newbridge also echoed Mr McGowans sentiments regarding the rising costs, calling it 'a worrying but unsurprising trend.'

"Costs are through the roof. The pub market has always been a difficult one, as it is very labour intensive, but our profit margins have been affected by the pandemic.

"There has also been a change in habits in Irish society pubs are yet to have that big comeback following the pandemic, there is less reliance on the pub."

"Were also conscious about trying to keep costs low for our customers, so that they get value for money."
A trend across the country which sees pubs being converted into housing or other uses has been replicated in Kildare.

In one of the biggest developments involving a pub, The Lion House in Kilcock received planning permission to be converted into 39 apartments.

Also included in the 6.2m development was a gym, cinema, a reception area and a communal living area.

Over four years ago, Maddenstown House pub on the Curragh was converted into a private dwelling after successfully securing planning permission.

In 2021, plans were lodged to build six apartments on the site of former Newbridge pub, The Winning Post on the corner of Eyre Street and John Street.

More recently, Kildare County Council received proposals for The Curragh Inn in Newbridge to be converted into retail and office use.

In Monasterevin, the adjoining pubs of Gahans Tavern and The Manley Hopkins are currently being re-purposed as a greengrocers, cafe and mini hotel.

A total of 14 short term tourist accommodation units will be constructed on the first and second floors of the building.

Other pubs also try to diversify to attract new customers such as Farringtons in Rathcoffey which was granted approval to develop a cafe on its premises.

D & T Dillons in Rathangan also sought to covert its bar and lounge premises into a retail and coffee shop and restaurant.

Publicans may also transfer their drinks licences to a new supermarket or off licence to allow them to legally sell wine and beer.
Naas General Hospital has encouraged people not to attend its Emergency Department (ED) unless it's urgent.

The hospital has advised the public to consider all care options for non-urgent care as the ED has been experiencing high level of attendances and admissions being cared for in the Hospital.

A statement said: "Where possible management at Naas General Hospital are asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service such as their local Pharmacist or GP.

"Unfortunately patients who are presenting at the ED in Naas General Hospital with non-urgent conditions are experiencing lengthy waiting times to be seen.

"Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and Naas General Hospital would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED. Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke, please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency.

"We would like to remind the public if you have to attend the ED in emergency situation please:

 ensure you wear a mask,

 practice social distancing and

 ensure you tell the triage personnel if you have any signs/symptoms of Covid-19

Naas General Hospital apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks the public for their understanding and consideration."
A number of 2022 Rose of Tralee entrants from around Ireland and the world will tour Leitrim ahead of the festival in Kerry next week.

A bus load of roses will visit a number of locations in Leitrim on Tuesday, August 16 and Wednesday, August 17 to enjoy the local hospitality and to meet and greet with people.

The Roses will begin their tour in Drumshanbo, the home town of Leitrim Rose Saoirse Gibbons on Tuesday, August 16. The Roses will visit Acres Lake and the floating boardwalk at 2.30pm. The roses are expected to visit The Shed Distillery and of course Saoirse's family business Centra in Drumshanbo before a reception in Lough Rynn Castle Hotel, Mohill.

On Wednesday the roses will meet and greet at the Moon River Car Park, Carrick-on-Shannon at 12.30 before they take a cruise around the county town. They will also visit the Margaret of New Orleans cottage in Carrigallen and enjoy lunch in Carrick-on-Shannon before they move on to another county on the rose tour. 

Rosefest will start in Tralee next Friday, August 19 with the Rose of Tralee selection being televised on Monday, August 22 and Tuesday, August 23. Saoirse Gibbons will represent Leitrim on stage and TV this year.
Labour spokesperson for Further and Higher Education has called on government to introduce legislation to protect purpose built student accommodation.

In light of the cost of living crisis, Senator Annie Hoey said a suite of measures will be needed to ensure students have access to education this year.

Senator Hoey said:

My office is inundated with students and parents contacting me about the lack of affordable student accommodation available for the forthcoming term. Students have long been at the coal face of the rental crisis with many paying into the tens of thousands for accommodation while trying to get their qualification.

There is and always has been huge profiteering at the heart of the student accommodation crisis.

There are a range of measures government can bring in to protect purpose built student accommodation, including backing Labours Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2021 which would stop developers using loop-holes in the planning legislation to convert student accommodation into apartments for tourists.

Earlier this year we had kite flying from the Minister for Further and Higher Education on college fees, yet, as students prepare for the return to college in less than a month, we still await specific detail on this.

Unfortunately our students are still paying some of the highest fees in Europe for supposedly free education. With the cost of living crisis that is crippling students and their parents, we need to see a commitment to a suite of measures to support students continuation of education.

Transport affordability and access remains a huge issue for students in terms of the cost of living, as well as having a crucial role to play in climate action.

While the reduction in rates has eased some of the pressure, the reality is we will have more students commuting than ever before this year due to the accommodation crisis.

As well as a reduction in fares for students, I would reiterate the calls of my colleague Senator Mark Wall for an extended short hop zone to take into account the areas from which we are seeing large volumes of people commuting into the cities.

In April, Labour called for an emergency budget to provide certainty to people in light of the cost of living crisis. Its now August, and people are left making huge budgetary decisions for their households without any idea what supports or reliefs will be there for them when the budget is delivered in late September.

In a modern society, we should casting the net far and wide to provide everyone with a chance to receive further and higher education.

Unfortunately between the accommodation crisis and the cost of living crisis, I fear we are about to lose another generation of young people.
The 2nd Army Corps of the People's Militia of the Luhansk People's Republic in Ukraine, in a photo released by the Russian Defense Ministry AP

A senior Pentagon official estimated on Monday, August 8 that as many as 80,000 Russians have been killed or wounded in Ukraine since the war began in late February.

"The Russians have probably taken 70 or 80,000 casualties in less than six months," Under Secretary of Defense Colin Kahl said. Mr. Kahl also said Russian forces have also lost "3,000 to 4,000" armored vehicles, and could be running low on available precision-guided missiles, including air and sea-launched cruise missiles, after firing a large number on Ukraine targets since launching the invasion on February 24.

He said the slowdown in Russian forces' use of longer range and precision-guided missiles was an indicator that their supplies had fallen close to what Moscow needed to hold in reserve for "other contingencies." Those losses are "pretty remarkable considering the Russians have achieved none of Vladimir Putin's objectives at the beginning of the war," he told reporters.

Read more Subscribers only In Sochi, Putin and Erdogan strengthen their economic and energy cooperation

Mr. Kahl admitted that the Ukraine side had also seen significant losses of manpower on the battlefield, but gave no figures.

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"Both sides are taking casualties. The war is the most intense conventional conflict in Europe since the Second World War," he said. "But the Ukrainians have a lot of advantages, not the least of which is their will to fight."

Read more Subscribers only A vacation in the Ukrainian Carpathians 'to prove that we are unbreakable'

Le Monde with AFP
Feature'The Heralds of the Forests' (6/6). Despite being in the Portuguese capital, the pines and oaks of Monsanto Forest Park continue to shy away from tourists. Forest engineer Fernando Louro Alves took us for a visit to this green haven.

In the west of Lisbon lies the magnificent, 1,000-hectare Monsanto Forest Park. Unwavering peaks of pine, oak and eucalyptus trees line the heights of the Portuguese capital, also elected as the "European Green Capital" in 2020. Even the French astronaut Thomas Pesquet sang its praises on social media in his observations from the International Space Station. Despite covering one-tenth of the city's surface, this vast wooded area is barely known to most tourists. Every day, Lisboners enter the heart of this precious lung to for jogging, walking their dogs, or using the road that passes through it.

Fernando, in the forest park of Monsanto, in Lisbon, on April 6, 2022. VASSILI FEODOROFF POUR  LE MONDE 

Urban forest is an oxymoron overused by many mayors who want to boast about the quality of life in their city. Berlin has one. So does Lisbon, and this one seems to have always been part of its cityscape. In reality, Monsanto is not a hundred years old. It dates back to 1938, when it sprouted up as a result of a crazy project  as red signboards remind its visitors  at a time when people were not yet talking about the fight against pollution. "The illusion of an old forest works because, in 90 years, men have done a job on the trees and vegetation that nature could have done on its own... but it would have taken 5,000 years," Fernando Louro Alves, in charge of Monsanto's management at the Lisbon City Council, proudly said.

The park, where he has worked for 40 years, holds no secrets for him. Every morning, the 62-year-old forestry engineer continues to be amazed whenever he spots one of the 23 species of wild orchids that bloom there, as they are proof of the ecosystem's vitality. He lets the 10,000 cork oaks  which is the emblematic tree of Portugal  quietly live their lives without stripping them of their bark, as is practiced elsewhere in the country, in order to obtain the precious cork. On hearing cracking noises, Mr. Alves immediately raises his head to look for squirrels in the canopy: "They're very good at camouflaging themselves in these Aleppo pines. They like their little apples that don't hurt their teeth," the engineer said with amusement.

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Brutal expropriations behind the green foundations

The foundations of this lush urban forest were laid on a hostile landscape. "The Serra de Monsanto, the mountain range overlooking the city, was home to arid farmland at the beginning of the 20th century, depleted by grazing activities," said Mr. Alves. But in 1934, the engineer and politician Duarte Pacheco, influenced by the work of geologists and foresters, dreamt of planting trees on these mountains. "Pacheco's convictions were guided by an ideology of health with hygienist tendencies, summed up by the expression 'mens sana in corpore sano' [a sound mind in a sound body]," explained Mr. Alves.

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A LIFEBOAT was deployed to help a boat with engine failure last night at a popular swimming spot for Limerick people.

Yesterday evening, Valentia Coast Guard requested the Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to launch to assist four people on a 36ft motor cruiser with engine failure.

Valentia Coast Guard informed the lifeboat volunteers that the casualty vessel was at a location west of the Corakeen Islands in Dromineer Bay and that the skipper had dropped anchor to prevent drift.

At 8.10pm Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with helm Eleanor Hooker, Joe ODonoghue and Chris Parker on board.

The skipper of a passing 45ft cruiser had taken the casualty vessel under tow and when the lifeboat arrived on scene at 8.10pm, both vessels were underway and making way through the Urra Channel.

All four people on the casualty vessel were safe and unharmed, and the skipper of the towing vessel, with nine people on board, told the lifeboat that he was happy to continue the tow to Dromineer Harbour.

The RNLI volunteers informed Valentia Coast Guard of the situation and that the lifeboat would accompany both vessels to Dromineer.

When both vessels were safely tied alongside at the harbour, the lifeboat departed the scene and was back at Station at 8.36pm.

Aoife Kennedy, Deputy Launching Authority at Lough Derg RNLI, advises boat users to "ensure your vessel is serviced and in safe working order and if you find yourself in difficulty on the lake dial 999 or 112 and ask for marine rescue".
CoinDCX, India's leading and most valuable crypto company, announced plans to host 'UNFOLD 2022' from August 26 - 28, 2022, in Bangalore. UNFOLD 2022 is a high-energy, immersive event which will bring together the developers, investors, Web3 startups as well as regulators to showcase and discuss how India can leverage its Web 3 talent and knowledge to be a global leader.

UNFOLD 2022 will provide a platform for industry stalwarts to discuss the trends of Web 3.0 and India's readiness, and challenges and opportunities for the Web 3.0 startup ecosystem. The event, powered by BuidlersTribe and Devfolio, will also introduce the first edition of the Unfold 2022 Hackathon and Demo Day.

What to expect from UNFOLD 2022:

The theme for this year is Innovation". The event will be forward looking and will focus on upcoming innovations and the next frontiers in the Web3 space

Unfold 2022 Web 3.0 Conference: A gathering of top minds that cut across the web3 ecosystem, geographies and themes. Speakers will share trends and insights, witnessed across the world that will shape the future and will give practical first-hand tips on building Web3 innovations through keynotes, panel discussions, fireside chats, masterclasses and workshops.

Unfold 2022 Web 3.0 Hackathon: Devfolio will bring together developers, advisors, mentors and companies to innovate and build decentralised applications with the potential of mass adoption. This cross-chain hackathon will be a melting pot of Web3 builders to interact and win bounties worth more than $50,000 by solving real-world problems

Unfold 2022 Web 3.0 Demo Day: Web3 startups will get an opportunity to pitch their ideas to investors including CoinDCX Ventures. The perks of winning the demo day include a $1 million pool of funding and $25K of grants.

Neeraj Khandewal, Founder, CoinDCX , said, "Technologies evolve for hundreds of years. And the internet is just 30 years old, where most benefits are yet to be built and harnessed. I believe Web 3.0, powered by blockchain technology, is the next Internet revolution that empowers the common man. As the first crypto unicorn of India, we believe in leading this technological revolution of Web 3.0. With UNFOLD 2022, we wish to emphasize on the role Web3 will play in peoples lives. Our flagship event will help shape conversations in making India a global hub in crypto, blockchain and Web3."

BuidlersTribe's pitch competition program has led to over $2.5mn funding in the last few months. With 1100+ startups on buidl.so, we're expecting this program to attract some of the best founders in web3", said Pareen Lathia - Co-founder, BuidlersTribe

Speaking on this collaboration Denver, COO at Devfolio said,"Devfolio is globally known to be one of the best community of builders. Historically, Devfolio has hosted hundreds of hackathons and events which have led to builders finding new jobs, learning new technology and even starting companies!

Were looking forward to the UNFOLD 2022 event to attract more builders to web3 as they get in-person experience of what its like to build for the decentralized web."

The three-day-long event will see over 500 participate in person at the conference, 250+ developers join 48 hours of the hackathon, and over 150 startups are expected to engage on Demo Day with the Web 3.0 investors community.

UNFOLD 2022, an annual event in the Web3 space is yet another initiative toward CoinDCX's commitment to realise the vision of building India's crypto/web3 ecosystem. This event will act as a guiding path into the future of the internet and will pave the way for India to become a global leader in Web3.
A new Marathi film titled Roop Nagar Ke Cheetey will release in cinemas on 16 September. It stars newcomers Karan Parab, Kunal Shukla, Aayushi Bhave, Sana Prabhu, Mugdha Chaphekar and Hemal Ingle and has been directed by Vihan Suryavanshi.

To be sure, smaller regional language film industries such as Marathi, Bengali and Punjabi that do not boast of large budgets of Hindi, Tamil and Telugu cinema, have bled for the past two years with the pandemic having created losses of nearly Rs. 600 crore. Not only were multiple projects stuck with interest costs mounting for producers, content in these languages was also still not picked up in a big way by large video streaming platforms that focus on languages with a bigger draw.

These movie industries have faced tough competition from bigger Hindi films for years. In 2019, for instance, around 130 Marathi language films were released in theatres but only four or five managed to do well at the box office. As the heart of the Hindi film industry, Mumbai often tends to overlook rich Marathi cinema that has remained on the periphery for years, with films like the 2016 blockbuster Sairat remaining a rare exception, according to trade experts. Further, unlike Bollywood, Marathi, Bengali, and Punjabi industries are mostly unorganized, relying on individual producers rather than established corporate houses.

Movies made in smaller regional markets barely ever make more than the cost of their production at the box office. Part of this has to do with the fact that these films are concept-driven and do not come with much star value. Actors in these industries are not really hero-worshipped like in Bollywood and in the south. Even in other states such as West Bengal and Punjab that boast active film industries, Bollywood is the bigger draw.
The political tussle between BJP and JD(U) in Bihar has possibly led to split between their alliance on Tuesday, said Rahul Kumar, a close aide of senior JD(U) leader Upendra Kushwaha. The close aide of Upendra Kushwaha, who was one of the national spokespersons in RLSP before merger of the party in JD(U) told LiveMint that an official statement on future of the BJP-JD (U) alliance may come after the Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar comes out from the Bihar Raj Bhavan.

Hinting about a possible split between BJP and JD(U), Upendra Kushwaha tweeted citing, Congratulations to Shri Nitish Kumar Jee for the new alliance in new form. Go ahead Nitish Jee. Nation is waiting for you."

See Upendra Kushwaha's tweet below:

                             Upendra Kushwaha (@UpendraKushJDU) August 9, 2022

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will meet Governor Phagu Chauhan at Rav Bhavan at 4 pm on Tuesday. He took this decision after chairing a meeting with the party members at his residence to discuss the ongoing political crisis in the state.

JD(U) is meeting Governor and is likely to drop the names of BJP ministers and induct names from other parties in the ministry," Rahul said. Recently, RJD has indicated support to Nitish Kumar in forming the new government in Bihar.

The political rift between BJP and JD(U)---the NDA coalition government in Bihar, intensified after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar skipped a key meeting of the NITI Aayog, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday and JD(U) leader RCP Singh rendered his resignation from the party.

Singh, who once was considered a close aide of Nitish Kumar, has been served a notice seeking an explanation on allegations of corruption. The JD(U) had demanded Singh explain "irregularities" in properties linked to his daughters. The party workers have alleged that huge property" has been amassed between 2013 and 2022 in the name of Singh and his family members.

Some media reports stated that Nitish Kumar was upset with RCP Singh for his growing nearness to coalition partner BJP. Singh had accepted a union cabinet without the party chief's consent.

The suspected end of political relationship between BJP and JD(U) will lead Nitish Kumar to form an alternate government in Bihar. If Nitish Kumar decides to part ways with the BJP, Counterparts Congress, Hindustani Awam Morcha, CPI, and CPI-ML all have announced unconditional support to JD-U.

However, all eyes are on Nitish Kumar's meeting with Governor today evening as the party members have not disclosed anything about the meeting yet.

On the other hand, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav also held a meeting with party leaders on Bihar political crisis, indicating full support to Nitish Kumar in forming new government in Bihar after suspected split with its ally BJP.

Congress's Bihar in-charge Bhaktacharan Das has said that Congress President Sonia Gandhi herself is keeping an eye on Bihar, she is being informed every moment. We are all united. Party's Legislature leader Ajit Sharma said that under the leadership of Tejashwi, we will take a decision together. The Grand Alliance is completely united.

The reports also said that Tejashwi is keeping his eye on the position of Deputy Chief Minister along with the Home Ministry, which has been always with Nitish Kumar since he became Bihar Chief Minister.

Currently, BJP holds 77, JD-U-45, RJD-79, HAM(S)-4, Congress-19, CPI-ML- 12, CPI-4, and AIMIM and Independent, one each seat in the Bihar Assembly. If RJD unites with JDU it would alone give a majority of 124 seats resulting in a new alliance, forming government in the state.
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Police in Albuquerque have announced that they have worked with the FBI to arrest a primary suspect, 51-year-old Muhammad Syed, in the murders of at least two Muslim men in the area. According to authorities, Syed was arrested after police identified his car as having been at the scenes of the crimes and found the gun used in both those killings in Syeds home. So far, he is being charged for two of the homicides, though he has not yet appeared in court.

In recent days, some city residents have been scared to even leave their homes. After three Muslim men were gunned down in less than two weeks, it seemed like a possible serial killer was stalking Muslims in the area. Police believe the three shootings  along with a fourth last November  are connected, and that the killer or killers have intentionally targeted Muslims. Before the fourth attack, in an Aug. 4 press release and request for tips, police said that, in each instance, the killer had ambushed their victims with no warning, fired shots and killed them.

The most recent victim, 25-year-old Naeem Hussain, was found shot dead on Friday in his car in the parking lot of a refugees services organization, where he had worked at one time. Hours earlier, he had attended a funeral for the other two recent victims, Aftab Hussein, 41, and Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, who were killed July 26 and Aug. 1, respectively, both shot outside their homes. All three men were immigrants from Pakistan. Their shootings were preceded by the November death of 62-year-old Mohammad Ahmadi, originally from Afghanistan, who was killed outside the grocery store he ran with his brother. Syed will be charged in the homicides of Hussein and Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, and Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina said the department is investigating his potential connection to the other two killings.

The killings captured national attention, with Joe Biden tweeting on Sunday, These hateful attacks have no place in America. They have also shaken a community that authorities have presented as a safe destination for immigrants, and which has welcomed hundreds of people relocating from Afghanistan since the U.S. withdrawal of troops last year.

Police responded to the recent shootings by increasing patrols around Muslim businesses and places of worship in the area. On Sunday, they released a photo of a car and asked for the publics help in locating a gray Volkswagen with tinted windows, which they said they believed the killer had driven in the attacks. On Tuesday, Albuquerque Medina tweeted saying the department had found the car  and detained their prime suspect.

Albuquerque Police Department via AP Albuquerque Police Department via AP

At the press conference, Deputy Police Commander Kyle Hartsock said the department had received hundreds of tips after releasing the photo of the car, and thanks to information from someone in the Muslim community, they had zeroed in on Syed. As they arrived at his residence to execute a search warrant Monday night, he said, officers saw Syed leave in the gray car. They worked with state police to follow him and pull him over, while other officers searched his home, where they discovered multiple firearms, including the alleged murder weapon.

Authorities further stated that Syed is originally from Afghanistan, and that hes lived in New Mexico for roughly five years, where he has faced three misdemeanor domestic violence charges, all of which were dismissed. Officers declined to confirm reporting by the New York Times that said the suspect was a Sunni Muslim and may have been targeting Shiite Muslims victims after his daughter married a Shiite, although they acknowledged they had heard this information and were investigating the suspects motives.
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SPOILER ALERT: Do not read if you have not watched the 12th episode of Better Call Saul Season 6, titled Waterworks.

Kim Wexler is back!

After she and Saul (Bob Odenkirk) had a shocking break-up three episodes ago, Better Call Saul fans have been going through a Wexler withdrawal. Luckily, all that changed on Monday nights penultimate episode, and we got a lot of answers about where Kim (Rhea Seehorn) has been in the Breaking Bad and post-Breaking Bad worlds.

The episode opens during the Breaking Bad timeline, where Saul is bouncing a stress ball against his office wall. Francesca (Tina Parker) informs him that everyone in the waiting room can hear him through the wall, and he has a special visitor: Kim. Though we dont see Kim at this point, Saul says to let her in and they prepare to sign their official divorce papers.

Before we see Kim for the first time during the main Breaking Bad era, we flash-forward to where she is after Breaking Bad, and that is far from the dry deserts of Albuquerque in boring, mundane Florida. Her life has changed majorly after she left Saul; shes dating a new man, rocking a new haircut, trying out a new mayonnaise and watching The Amazing Race. She now works at Palm Coast Sprinklers in the Catalog & Brochures department, away from Sauls morally-draining exploits. That is, until she gets a phone call from him, which we saw in last weeks episode without sound.

In tonights episode, we finally hear what was said between Saul and Kim, and, wow, things are messy! Saul, fully in the Saul Goodman persona of Breaking Bad, jokingly says hes calling to catch up after six years and brags that hes still alive and getting away with everything. Kim restrains herself, simply saying he shouldnt be calling her and that he should turn himself in. Saul doesnt take her words well and says the pot is calling the kettle black.

Were both too smart to throw our lives away for no reason, he tells her, while also revealing that Gus Fring (Giancarlo Esposito) and Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks) are dead. Almost tearing up, Kim tells Saul shes glad hes alive, then hangs up the phone. After that, a coworker barges into Kims office and shes forced to join in on the most awkward round of Happy Birthday in workplace history.

Still in the black-and-white timeline, we follow Kim from Florida back to good ole Albuquerque. She revisits the courthouse and some key Better Call Saul locations, like Mikes ticket booth and the outdoor table where she and Saul planned schemes. Then, she goes to Howard Hamlins (Patrick Fabian) house and sits down with his wife Cheryl (Sandrine Holt). Kim confesses everything, and I mean, everything.

She spills on her and Sauls plot to ruin Howards reputation, the fake cocaine addiction, Lalo Salamancas (Tony Dalton) murder of Howard and his staged suicide. Kim gave her confessional to the courthouse, but admits theres little physical evidence that would make any charges stick. On the way back to the airport, Kim breaks down and sobs violently, finally freeing herself of the guilt shes harbored for years. Out of a season full of Emmy-worthy moments, this heart-wrenching scene sits near the top of the list.

The next time we see Kim this episode, its back in Sauls office during Breaking Bad. Saul doesnt care shes moving to Florida and reveals she didnt take her share of the massive Sandpiper payout. But the major moment comes as Kim leaves Sauls office and lights up a cigarettewhich draws the attention of none other than Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), whos taking shelter from the rain and bums a cig.

Its one of the strangest pairings of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul characters, but one that works surprisingly well. Jesse recognizes Kim from one of his friends legal run-ins and commends her for getting his friend off scot-free. He then asks if Saul is the real deal, and Kim reluctantly, but truthfully, answers, When I knew him, he was.

Speaking of Saul, he spends much of the episode snooping around the house of the cancer patient he met last episode, looking for valuables. During his search, Sauls victim wakes up from his drug-induced slumber, and it looks like Sauls luck has run out. Just as Saul is ready to knock the man out with a vase of his dogs ashes, he passes out once again.

However, Sauls isnt free yet. Outside, Jeffy (Pat Healy) realizes hes parked his cab in front of two cops, but the officers are too distracted by their food to notice Jeffy  until he panics, hits the gas and crashes into a parked car down the street. Sauls reluctant partner-in-crime lands himself in prison, but Saul promises over the phone that hell bail him out no problem.

But will Saul get the chance? When he returns to Marions (Carol Burnett) house to tell her about Jeffys arrest, he discovers the elderly woman has stumbled upon some of his old Saul Goodman commercials. Realizing that Gene isnt who he says he is, Marion condemns him as a conman. Amid the black-and-white scene, theres a pop of color in Sauls glasses from the Saul Goodman commercials, making a crossover from the black-and-white and in-color timelines. Suddenly, perhaps channeling his inner Walter White, Saul drops the act and threateningly approaches Marion, holding her phone cord like hes going to strangle her. Before anything can happen, Marion presses her Life Alert button and says shes being attacked, and Saul Goodman is the perpetrator.

How will Saul get out of this one? Will he and Kim ever reconcile? Better Call Saul fans will have to wait just one week more until all is resolved in next weeks series finale.

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A review of this weeks Better Call Saul, Waterworks, coming up just as soon as I call this a fish taco, legally

This guy? Any good? Jesse

When I knew him, he was. Kim

In a different world, Kim Wexler and Jesse Pinkman should have never met. She was a high-powered civil attorney working for two of Albuquerques most prestigious firms; he was Capn Cook. In this one, they are linked not only by the fact that she once defended Jesses friend Combo(*) in juvenile court, but by their associations with Saul Goodman  associations that eventually destroyed any semblance of the life they had once planned for themselves(**).

(*) RIP, Combo. Gone and often forgotten among Jesses crew because he was killed so early in the series, while Badger and Skinny Pete made it to the end and beyond.

(**) Yes, Walter White is ultimately far more to blame for Jesses travails. But without Saul pushing them to expand the operation, and eventually introducing them to Gus Fring, it is not hard to envision a reality where Team Heisenberg remained small-time and out of danger until Walt coughed himself to death.

But they are linked in other ways, too. Both are characters for whom their creators had few plans: Vince Gilligan assumed Jesse would die a few episodes into Breaking Bad, while Peter Gould has bluntly said that he and Gilligan didnt give any deeper thought to developing Kim than deciding that there should be a woman in Jimmys life. (She only has two lines of dialogue in the Better Call Saul pilot.) And both gradually turned into the hearts of their respective series. Its only through Jesse that we begin to truly appreciate what a monster Walt is. Kim, for a long time, served the opposite function: Her affection for Jimmy was so palpable that it made both the writers and the audience fall for him, too. And more recently, her reckless, addict-like behavior regarding Howard has put a spotlight on the extreme peril that comes from being around the charming but ultimately weak Jimmy. Jesse was the closest thing to a conscience Walt had; once their partnership dissolved, Walts malevolence only grew. And as soon as Kim began packing to leave Jimmy, we jumped straight to him as the remorseless Saul Goodman.

Neither is innocent: Jesse was cooking meth before he ever reconnected with Walt, and by the end of the marriage, Kim was the one ruthlessly pushing the confidence schemes, not Jimmy. But both suffer far worse fates than they could have possibly deserved as a result of their respective partnerships: Jesse by spending months as Todds meth slave, Kim by feeling like she had no choice but to quit the career she was so good at and loved so much.

Both eventually get far away  Jesse to Alaska, Kim to central Florida  and both ultimately take responsibility for their actions. One of the final scenes in El Camino is Jesse giving Ed the disappearer a letter to mail to Brock, no doubt explaining why Brock got sick and why Brocks mother was murdered. (And also that her murderer will never hurt anyone again.) And in Waterworks, Genes attempt to mock his ex-wifes suggestion that he turn himself in instead is taken wholly seriously, as she travels back to Albuquerque to tell both the authorities and Howards widow Cheryl what really happened to her former boss.

Before that, we get an extended glimpse of Kims life as a Catalogs and Brochures specialist for Palm Coast Sprinklers. These scenes are taking place parallel to what her ex has been up to in her home state, so they are shot in the same stark black and white of all the Gene scenes. The cinematography choice is fitting, though, because her life is as bleached of color as Genes. She is less of a loner, because she has no need to hide from the authorities. So she has a boyfriend, Glen, and a group of other friends both at home (even if perhaps via Glen and his buddies) and the office. And she is dedicated to the job she does, because Kim Wexler is not built to half-ass anything. But it is a deliberately boring life. Glen is nice but dull (no man should say yup that many times during sex, if at all), the friends kind but banal  her lunch group at work seems positively agog at the idea of people using illegal drugs, while Kim once verbally pantsed Lalo Salamanca  the job unchallenging. (Gilligan, writing and directing his final episode of the series, deliberately lingers on random bits of office monotony, like two colleagues sharing a three-hole punch across their cubicle divider.)

It is better than the life she left the Midwest to avoid, but not by a ton: Shes not a cashier at the Hinky Dinky, but her boyfriend brings her Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise from the Winn-Dixie. And it is a very deliberate choice on her part. Even if she was insistent on never returning to the law, there is other work she could have chosen that would take advantage of some of the skills and connections she developed in Albuquerque. She doesnt want any of that. Perhaps it is penance for Howard, and for whatever role she feels she played in turning Jimmy into Saul. Or perhaps it is a way of white-knuckling her way through her addiction to flimflammery; there are fewer temptations in an existence this vanilla(*).

(*) Even more than returning her hair to its natural dark color and sporting bangs, Kims indecisiveness regarding Tammys birthday ice cream cake flavor is a mark of how much she has changed. Kim Wexler, attorney at law, tended to make choices quickly and stick to them, even if they wound up harming her or others later.

Greg Lewis/AMC/Sony Pictures Television Greg Lewis/AMC/Sony Pictures Television

So by the time we finally get to hear Genes fateful phone call with Kim, we understand the life she has and the reasons why. Last weeks episode implied that he didnt go full Saul until after the call ended so badly. But almost from the start, its Saul in that phone booth, ugly and hurt and prepared to hurt Kim for not giving him what he wants out of the conversation. The longer she remains silent, the more he brags about eluding the authorities. When she suggests that he turn himself in, he mocks the very idea as hypocritical, given the role that Kim played in getting Howard killed, and how she has remained silent about it for all these years.

Gene is not wrong about that, but he is wrong about everything that follows. Where he uses the conversation as an excuse to go on a grifting rampage, she uses it as a wake-up call to fly back to Albuquerque and do the right thing. There is probably no legal jeopardy associated with this  as Kim admits to a bitter Cheryl, she will not go to jail for a case where there is no physical evidence(*) and no living witness other than her fugitive ex-husband. But whatever catharsis Kim gets from finally admitting her guilt, and from returning to the life she cost herself, is not enough.

(*) This definitely answers the question of whether the DEA dug up the foundation of the Super Lab after Walt and Jesse burned it down.

Several times in this episode, Gilligan lets the camera linger on Rhea Seehorns incredibly expressive face. On the phone with Gene, she looks like a wild animal thats been cornered and cant figure a way out, and then she just looks tired of him and all of it, in a manner similar to how shell look when she departs Sauls office in the flashback sequence. And on the rental car shuttle in the 2010 timeline, the camera again just holds on Seehorn as Kim considers everything she has done, and everything it has cost her and the people around her. Kim has so often been in complete command of her own emotions, and the Saul directors have long learned to trust Seehorns ability to say crucial things about that character through extremely subtle shifts in expression. This starts out like that, as Kims mask of composure cracks ever so slightly. But as the shuttle rolls along, the cracks become bigger and bigger, until finally they burst, and the episodes titular waterworks  not the sprinkler company, and not the downpour she and Jesse try to avoid  come flowing out of her. Its all too much for her, and its everything this show has built to for her over these six seasons. Its awful, and its incredible  maybe the best scene Seehorn has ever played on this show, which is saying something.

The episode then returns to Omaha to show Gene taking things too far with Mr. Lingk  stealing trophies and preparing to knock out the cancer patient with the urn containing the remains of his beloved dog Rusty  and then for the slapstick of a panicked Jeff crashing his cab into a parked car in front of two police officers who were just on meal break. But then we dial back to the final legal matter of Wexler v. Goodman, as Kim signs the divorce papers, makes a beeline away from the amoral asshole she just ceased to be married to, and finds herself under the strip mall awning next to her spiritual cousin from that other show.

Jesse is only there because his buddy Emilio  a.k.a. Walter Whites first murder victim  has come to Saul seeking legal representation. (In the Better Call Saul episode of Breaking Bad, Jesse tells Walt that Saul got Emilio out of trouble on two different occasions, despite the cops having him dead to rights.) Like Kims various interactions with Saul and/or Gene in this episode, she says very little, just waiting for the nicotine to kick in and hoping that the rain will stop before she has to listen to too much of this overgrown kid(*) bragging about ways for criminals to evade the justice system. She believed passionately in her work as a public defender, but guys like Jesse, Emilio, and Combo are the dark side of that work  the ones who present an ongoing danger to others each time a lawyer like Kim or Saul gets them off. And she really cant stand listening to the future Mr. Driscoll praise the legal chicanery of the man she hopes to never see again.

(*) For the second week in a row, the show deliberately puts Aaron Paul in dark lighting with other conditions affecting visibility, and also has him wear a beanie. And for the second week in a row, this only does so much to make him physically look like a guy in his early twenties.

Will she see him again? I would not bet against Kim being in the finale, not after how crucial she has become to the series. While talking with Cheryl, Kim acknowledges that Jimmy/Saul/Gene is the only one who can corroborate her story. These last two episodes have established that he is desperate to see her again, and that he responds to her understandable refusal to do so in the worst possible ways. And this installment concludes with Jeffs mother Marion ratting Gene out to the authorities(*) in a manner that could well bring him back to the scene of his many crimes. Under those circumstances, would he be willing to put Kim in legal jeopardy just as an excuse to see her again?

(*) As the great Russian playwright Anton Chekhov once wrote, if you show an elderly woman learning how to find cat videos on the internet in Episode 11, then she has to be able to bust our protagonist via Ask Jeeves in Episode 12.

Greg Lewis/AMC/Sony Pictures Television Greg Lewis/AMC/Sony Pictures Television

Its unclear. The man who could brain Mr. Lingk with Rustys ashes, or the one who could harm and tie up a helpless old lady, would almost certainly be game for something that nasty. But Gene is spared the first crime when Lingk falls asleep again, and then he deliberately chooses not to do the second. He has allowed himself to become and do so many terrible things in the years since Kim told him, I love you, but so what? But there are apparently limits even to that. Somewhere buried deep beneath that mustache, those glasses, and that wispy hair, there still exists a part of Jimmy McGill, who took such pleasure being around senior citizens, and who once sacrificed an early payday from Sandpiper because he felt guilty about taking away Irene Landrys friends at the retirement home. There is just enough Jimmy left to hand the LifeAlert fob back to Marion, come what may, and then Saul Goodman is off and running into the snowy daylight, with no one to help him (even if he wanted to call Ed, Robert Forster has passed away) and a whole lot of people eager to bring him to justice.

When Jesse asks Kim if Saul is any good, he is only referring to Mr. Goodmans legal skills. Those, he has in abundance. Its everything else he gradually became so bad at.

But now all those bad deeds are catching up to him. When the show established that Kim was from Nebraska, it was easy to hope that she would one day turn up in the Cottonwood Mall for some kind of low-key Happily Ever After. But this dark fictional universe that Gilligan created has something of a moral compass to it. Bad things happen to characters who do not deserve it, but characters who deserve bad things inevitably get what is coming to them. The sins Jimmy McGill and Kim Wexler committed together on this show are enough to bar either of them from the pearly gates of this particular cosmology, never mind the ones Jimmy committed as Saul Goodman. If they do wind up occupying the same physical space in next weeks finale, it is unlikely they will find themselves on shared emotional ground.

But so what? Weve gotten to watch them at their best and at their worst for so many years now, and almost all of it has been riveting, up through and including Waterworks.

Some other thoughts:

* I interviewed Vince Gilligan about his Saul swan song, why he would not change anything about Breaking Bad to have made life easier for him and the writers on this show, and why  for now, at least  he considers the Saul series finale to be the end of this fictional universe.

* Gilligan loaded the episode with callbacks to moments from throughout the series. Saul tosses the rubber ball off the wall and tries various trick shots, just like he did as Jimmy while working in the cell phone store that never had customers. Rupert Holmes Escape (The Pina Colada Song) plays at Kims backyard barbecue, after Jimmy used Holmes as a pretext for filming a commercial at an elementary school with an enormous American flag. At work, Kim places a reflective sun shield on her cars dashboard that evokes Chucks space blankets. When Kim goes back to the courthouse, she passes Mikes old parking booth  now fully automated  and lingers by the picnic tables where she and Jimmy sat right before their wedding. Gene being trapped in the bedroom when Mr. Lingk wakes up evokes Lalo being stuck in Werner Zieglers home office when his widow unexpectedly returned to the house. (And Gene does not possess Lalos superhuman jumping abilities, and thus cant just leap down to the first floor.) Gene peering around a corner of Mr. Lingks house is like the famous shot of Jimmy doing that in the courthouse in last seasons JMM, only now theres no reflection to suggest another version of Gene. And when Gene awaits Jeffs call from the police station, he waves his fingers at the burner phone, magician-style, in the same manner we saw Jimmy do when he was desperate for business back in the shows earliest days.

* One bit of color appears in the Gene timeline: when Gene sees that Marion has been watching one of the old Saul Goodman commercials, they are reflected in his glasses in all their gaudy color, a splash of his old life coming back to ruin his new one.

* While Gene and Kim are on the phone, he refers to Gus by name as one of the dead people who will no longer endanger them. That he does not bother to explain who he is implies that Kim already knows, and that Gene knows that she knows. Maybe at some point in the Breaking Bad years, he reached out to her to tell her the name of Mikes mystery employer (a.k.a. the man Kim was once prepared to murder). Or maybe he just assumes that she figured it out because Gus name was no doubt publicized in the wake of his own murder, and in all the post-Ozymandias news coverage of Walter Whites operation.

* The altered main title sequence gets another wrinkle this week, as it concludes with a half-second, warped glimpse of a shot of Kim standing at the curb at the Albuquerque airport from later in the episode. She doesnt take over all of Waterworks in the way that, say, Mike did back in Season Ones Five-O. But its a nice, subtle acknowledgment of how important she will be to this hour.

* Not only has Kim abandoned her familiar coiffure, but her wardrobe is night and day from her Albuquerque ensembles. Gone are the tailored suits and stiletto heels, replaced by denim skirts and white sneakers. Even when she goes to her old stomping grounds at the county courthouse, its in a pair of sensible pumps with a chunky heel. But as she waits for the elevator, she spots a bright young defense lawyer basically sporting her old wardrobe  and her trademark power ponytail, but in brown  and helping an indigent client get dressed up for court, as we so often saw Kim doing in this shows later seasons. She screwed everything up for herself, but there are other idealistic defense lawyers out there, at least.

* The divorce paper scene establishes that Kim declined her half of the Sandpiper settlement in the divorce, even though the money arrived while she was still married to Jimmy. She was well-compensated from her brief time at Schweikart & Cokely, and that was likely all she needed to start over and buy that little house in Florida.

* Finally, as Kim is leaving the office, Saul refers to Francesca as Sweet Cheeks. This fits with some of the gross nicknames he used for her on Breaking Bad, but doesnt really match what we saw of the decidedly non-misogynist Jimmy McGill over the bulk of this series. Presented here, though, it starts to make sense, as part of the horrible defense mechanism he has built for himself to cope with the loss of Kim: If she wont have him, then he will make himself so disgusting to her that she will feel as upset as he does. Poor Francesca is just collateral damage in this unhealthy attempt at self-medicating.
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Principal photography is underway near Budapest on Rise of the Raven, an epic drama series produced by veteran Canadian producer Robert Lantos Serendipity Point Films (Crimes of the Future) and Beta Film (Gomorrah) that marks the most lavish TV production in Hungarys history.

Adapted from author Ban Mors bestselling novels, the 10-episode series tells the story of the Hungarian warrior Janos Hunyadi, who defeated the Ottoman army in 1456 at the Battle of Belgrade, halting its march across Europe.

Lantos, whose producing credits include The Sweet Hereafter, Johnny Mnemonic and Eastern Promises, spoke exclusively with Variety about a passion project more than a decade in the making. He was joined by Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning director Robert Dornhelm (The Children of Theater Street, Maria Theresa, War and Peace) and Hungarian directors Attila Szasz (Tall Tales, Eternal Winter) and Orsi Nagypal (The Deal, The Outpost), who joined the conversation fresh off shooting an epic battle sequence outside Budapest.

The Hungarian-born Lantos, who was in Cannes this year with David Cronenbergs body-horror film Crimes of the Future, described Rise of the Raven as a quintessential Hungarian story about an event that changed the history of Europe and impacted the entire European civilization and what came thereafter.

It took more than a decade to secure the shows financing, with the final puzzle piece falling into place when Hungarys National Film Institute (NFI) issued its first ever funding call for television and online content in early 2020, awarding $29 million to Rise of the Raven.

The show is financed by the NFI and Beta and produced by Serendipity Point Films, Twin Media, HG Media, MR Film and Beta. Co-producers are Hungarys TV2 Network, which will broadcast the show in Hungary and Slovenia. Austrian broadcaster ORF was announced this week as a co-producer and will broadcast the series in Austria.

Also producing are Tibor Krsko (Fateless, Children of Glory, The Song of Names), Cecilia Hazai, Kinga Hazai and Ari Lantos (Remember, Barneys Version), alongside Oliver Auspitz and Andreas Kamm of MR Film (Vienna Blood) and Beta CCO Koby Gal Raday.

Adapting Mors epic series of novels required the grueling work of a writing team that was trying to turn what was some five or six thousand pages of fiction into a 10-hour screenplay, said Lantos. It was an onerous responsibility to take this on, and I wanted to make sure that we had a team that could rise to this challenge. Showrunner Balazs Lengyel (HBOs Golden Life) shares writing credits along with George Mihalka, Balazs Lovas, Zsofia Ruttkay, Attila Veres and author Mor.

As Rise of the Raven begins, the Ottoman Empire is mobilizing an army of unprecedented size and strength, marching west with the aim of conquering the Vatican and sweeping across the continent. It is the fierce warrior Hunyadi and his overmatched troops who stand in the empires way.

Set among the scandals, political power plays and court intrigues of medieval Europe, the series is nevertheless a human story at heart, according to Nagypal.

For me, the whole historical story is just the backdrop, she said. I think we have a very complex and very human story of our heroes. Its a family drama. There is a man marrying a woman whom he then never sees, because he keeps on going to battles to save his country. Then he has kids who he needs to sacrifice for his country. For me the biggest question, and for me the essence of the story, is how much must you sacrifice for the thing that you believe in?

On Tuesday the production announced a cast that includes the rising Hungarian star Gellert L. Kadar as Hunyadi, along with Hungarian TV, film and stage star Vivien Rujder as his life partner, Elizabeth Szilagyi.

Theyre joined by an international cast that includes Austrias Laurence Rupp (Barbarians), Cornelius Obonya (Maria Theresa), Murathan Muslu (Breaking Point), Italys Francesco Acquaroli (Fargo, Suburra), Czech actor Karel Roden (Bourne Supremacy, Mr. Bean) and Serbian star Rade Serbedzija (Batman Begins, Mission: Impossible II), as well as Italian actors Thomas Trabacchi (Studio Battaglia) and Elena Rusconi (6 Underground).

Production, which began July 25, is set to continue until June of next year. The series is being filmed on location around Hungary and at the state-owned Mafilm Studio complex outside Budapest, which has hosted productions such as Denis Villeneuves Blade Runner 2049, Paramounts Terminator: Dark Fate, and Netflixs The Witcher and The Last Kingdom. We are using everything the country has to offer, said Dornhelm.

The director, who was nominated for an Academy Award for the 1977 documentary The Children of Theater Street and has directed numerous indie features, likened working on the lavish production to an artist painting on a vast canvas for the first time. What Ive seen today is mind blowing, he told Variety, after a visit to the set. Its 275 crew, 80 horses at 105-degree temperature in metal uniforms. Its madness. Its incredibly big, dusty, hot, exciting. Its really a huge production.

For a country accustomed to hosting blockbuster studio productions  including Villeneuves Dune: Part Two, which began shooting in Budapest last month  Rise of the Raven represents a watershed moment in the growth of the Hungarian industry. Its different than when I used to come back to Hungary to make films like Being Julia almost 20 years ago. We were the only film shooting in the country, said Lantos.

The bar has been raised, and with Beta primed to deliver Rise of the Raven to the world at the tail end of 2024, Hungarian filmmakers will have a chance to showcase their talents like never before. I think it would be nice to achieve a level that people around the world can marvel at what Hungarian filmmakers are capable of, said Szasz. We have this amazing historical storyand it would be very nice to let them know about this story in a way thats unique and equally high quality. Thats what we are aiming for.

Pictured: Vivien Rujder (l.) and Gellert L. Kadar

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Donald Trump said on Monday that the FBI conducted a search of his home at the Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, Fla.

According to the New York Times, two people familiar with the matter said the search seemed to be focused on classified documents that Trump brought with him to Mar-a-Lago after leaving the White House. The Associated Press reports that the Justice Department had been investigating if Trump still had records in his possession after the National Archives and Records Administration said it found 15 boxes of classified material at the estate.

The former president also issued a statement about the search, calling it a raid and comparing the situation to Watergate.

After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Trump wrote in the statement, according to the Times. They even broke into my safe! What is the difference between this and Watergate, where operatives broke into the Democrat National Committee? Here, in reverse, Democrats broke into the home of the 45th President of the United States.

The FBIs search comes as the House of Representatives continues to investigate the events of Jan. 6, when the Capitol was attacked while Congress counted electoral college votes to solidify the victory of President Joe Biden. Trumps role in the attack has been the center of much discussion during the hearings, with many of his closest advisers testifying.

The Department of Justice did not immediately respond to Varietys request for comment. According to the Associated Press, a DOJ spokesperson declined to comment on the situation.

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Zurich native Caterina Mona will bring her directorial debut Semret to the 75th Locarno Film Festival where it screens at the citys Piazza Grande, an outdoor venue traditionally reserved for more popular plays. The film, which is being sold by German sales outfit Pluto Film, follows the difficult path to healing for the titular character of Semret: a reclusive immigrant mother from Eritrea, now living and working in Zurich. Between her difficulties with her daughters coming-of-age and her challenging career at a hospital, Semret must take down her walls in order to let others in.

Semret stars British newcomer Lula Mebrahtu (alongside Tedros Teclebrhan and Hermela Tekleab), whose understated physicality in the role of Semret expertly belies the violence of the characters trauma as Semret moves through scenes with a palpable past. The dialogue in Semret bounces between Swiss-German and Tigrinya, continuing a trend toward multilingual European co-productions. Winner of Le Film Francais Award at Locarno Pros 2021 First Look on Swiss Cinema, a pix-in-post showcase, Semret is produced by Cinedokke Sagl (Michela Pin) and Cineworx (Pascal Trachslin), along with Filmproduktion Basel GmbH and RSI Radiotelevisione svizzera.

Variety spoke with Mona ahead of the films debut at Locarno.

Could you talk about what inspired the film and drew you to tell Semrets story?

What interests me really is: How does trauma affect your life, and also the lives of your children or the people around you? And how can you overcome trauma if possible? How can you learn to live with trauma? Semret is a woman who has really suffered struggle and has something really dark in her past, so how can she try to have this normal life or build a normal life for her daughter? I moved into this cooperative building in the center of Zurich and there were two families from Eritrea, and the kids went to school with my kids. We became friends. I got to know the parents and I started to learn more about the history of the culture and the people who are fleeing the country and they came here to build up a better future for themselves and their children.

Was Semret based on someone in real life? How did you decide on this unique character to tell such a challenging story?

Yes, she is based on women I know. One more in particular who does not have her story but more her way of speaking and talking. Because that, to me, is character: Body and movement. The rhythm, and tone of voice. And then I found a woman who is very close to the character I had envisioned, and I wouldve wanted to work even more with her, but she had two jobs, sometimes three jobs, so she didnt have that much time. But like Semret, she really detached from her own community. She was also a single mom.

The film follows Semret and her daughter, both together and apart. Can you talk a little bit about how you approached their narratives?

It is always a bit of a question, if its possible to go away and come back. I think there were moments where it was much more all over the place. There were other characters who had scenes by themselves in different versions of the script, but I think in the end it is the story of Semret and Joe. So I felt it was really O.K to go with Joe several times and just be with her and her friends, because it adds layers to the relationship with her mother.

How did scenes following Semrets romantic life assist in the storytelling?

I think the romance part is very important in this specific case, because thats her trauma. It is linked not to romance but sexuality. And she is completely frozen in that part of her life. She closed that chapter in her life somehow. And this man, who is just fantastic and everybody falls in love with him. So I do think thats the point in the end. Its not that healing has not happened or does not happen in a way, because its not about that. The film is not the end, but that first step in the right direction.

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Composer Benjamin Wallfisch has a vast amount of experience scoring films, from Hidden Figures and Blade Runner 2049 to It and The Invisible Man. Yet nothing had quite prepared him to score Thirteen Lives, the true story of the rescue of a dozen boys and their coach from a flooded cave in northern Thailand in 2018.

It turned out to be one of the hardest scores Ive ever worked on, Wallfisch says. Everything you thought might work, just didnt work. Plus, COVID restrictions prevented him from traveling to Thailand to research the music. So he flew instead to London and worked closely with director Ron Howard for more than three months to come up with the unusual soundscape for the film.

Howard hired Wallfisch, in part, on the recommendation of Hans Zimmer (with whom the director had done nine films including The DaVinci Code and Rush). I felt like music could help with defining the culture, Howard says. I knew that we didnt want it to be traditionally bombastic action music. I wanted to make sure the movie was chilling, suspenseful and scary, but it also needed to be subtle and cool and interesting.

Says Wallfisch: The music really had to be something completely fresh. Its a story of unimaginable heroism, but I couldnt write heroic music, and we didnt want to have any of the tropes of a suspense and tension score. Everything had to be very carefully considered.

He was taken with the idea that the Tham Luang caves were in a mountain range named after Princess Nang Non, and that the silhouette of the mountains looked like a sleeping woman. The locals believed that the princess was angry and the rain that flooded the caves, trapping the young people, were her tears.

The composer began by contacting Thai musicologist and vocalist Natt Buntita, who discovered a traditional song (Soh Long Nan) from the Chiang Rai province where the Tham Luang caves are located. Its hundreds of years old, Wallfisch notes, about the flow of a river being similar to the flow of life, always going in one direction.

Wallfisch added little echoes of that song just to connect us to this idea of the mountain having a voice. Buntita sings it under the end titles.

In addition, the composer managed to arrange for three other Thai soloists to perform and improvise in a Bangkok studio on traditional instruments: the two-stringed saw duang, the national instrument of Thailand; the khlui, a bamboo flute; the phin, a lute; and the khaen, a mouth organ.

I was very concerned about overly sentimentalizing the film, Howard says. I didnt want it to be cloying or manipulative in any way. I wanted an urgent sense of a kinetic drive, a little chaotic.

So, Wallfisch determined, the score had to be quite experimental. So much of the movie happens underwater. So what would it sound like to have these Thai instruments and voices warped, slowed down, reversed, and made to sound in a kind of underwater texture?

In addition, he acquired oxygen canisters, scraped them, tapped them and sampled the sounds of air escaping the valves. All of these things were incorporated into the rhythmic parts of the score, he says. Adds Howard: The more abstract, the more unsettling it was for us, almost like an artifact of the cave.

Another element of the story that intrigued Wallfisch was the presence of two British divers, Richard Stanton and John Volanthen (played by Viggo Mortensen and Colin Farrell), whose daring and creative thinking helped save the boys. So he incorporated English piano and cello soloists, along with the strings of the Chamber Orchestra of London, which provide the most traditional sounds in the score.

Wallfisch says he tried to capture the spirituality of the people. There is something incredibly beautiful about the place, a serenity and a reflective feeling. Says Howard: It was a process of discovery. Bens creative endurance was remarkable.

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TikTok star Jaxs body-positive anthem Victorias Secret was written prior to the Hulu docuseries Victorias Secret: Angels and Demons, which offers a glimpse into the scandalous connection between Jefferey Epstein and disgraced Victorias Secret founder Les Wexner. But the timing turned out to be perfect  and warranted  as the singer delivered Body-insecuri-tea to her social media audience of 11 million followers.

I would like to take credit for the genius timing of the release but honestly we had no idea the Hulu documentary was coming out, she tells Variety. In fact, the producers saw my first Victorias Secret TikTok before their premiere and immediately asked me to create one for the show.  Crazy coincidence!

The song recorded early in the summer  struck a nerve on the social app and now on the charts, with streaming numbers skyrocketing to 2.8 million the week of August 5 and resulting in her first placement on Billboards Hot 100 chart, debuting at No. 83.

The company tried to do damage control, even commenting on the video, saying the company is changing and Wexner is no longer with the brand. However, that message may have arrived too little too late.

The intention of the song was never to go up against any specific brand, said Jax. The whole point was to go up against the whole culture. There are a bunch of young girls my age running marketing over there and hard-working models. This is no knock on the models. Those are powerful, beautiful girls. But at the same time, its not exactly my job to keep up with the growth of a corporation.

She continued: I just need to write songs about my truth and tell my story. And I feel bad that there has to be some damage control on that front because I did that. The point of the song is he realized he was getting called out by a culture of women standing up for themselves. So then he liquidated all the money and ghosted and went off the grid. Now were all sitting here with body problems and he has billions of dollars. That doesnt sit right with me.

The genesis of the song was inspired in early June after Jax  the winner of this years iHeartradio TikTok songwriter of the year award  picked up the young girl she babysits, Chelsea, after she spent the day bathing suit shopping with her friends and was mortified by what she heard.

Chelsea had gone shopping for a suit to wear for her first boy and girl swim party in Los Angeles, and burst into tears because she was told by another girl that a suit made her look too flat and fat.

In an attempt to comfort Chelsea, Jax shared that she had been struggling with eating disorders since she was 12, and did what she did best to cheer her up: she wrote a song about it.

Says Jax: Its a really hard time in middle school. Its a really hard time in high school. I remember experiencing it in middle school, especially when my body started to change. I started to compare myself to other girls and some girls were insecure. So theyd take it out on me, which made me insecure and take it out on the next girl. So it was one big war, zone, I guess.

Chelseas always telling me about things a girl said to her  her body, her ears, you name it and shes insecure about it. So Im like, gosh, ding, ding, ding. Ive been holding back on writing a song about what Ive been through with my body for a very long time. It was like a light bulb. I could actually do something good here for these kids.

In a TikTok video that has now amassed over 37.6 million views, Jax takes on the lingerie legacy with a playfully scathing review: God, I wish somebody would have told me when I was younger all bodies arent the same. Photoshop, itty bitty models on magazine covers told me I was overweight and laments that you cant have carbs and a hot girl summer. What is Victorias Secret? Shes an old man who lives in Ohio, making money off of girls like me she was made up by a dude.

I always wanted to write the song Victorias Secret just because I like puns. And I like to play on Victoria as a person and I never knew how to put it to work. They were just sitting in my notes section. So we finished the song. I started an idea, spoke with Chelsea, always talked to Chelsea about whats going on in school and then finished the idea with uh, a pop-punk song.

That dude  Wexner, the billionaire founder of Victorias Secrets former parent company, L Brand  is the punchline and villain of the song, which has resonated so much on social media with even Rosie ODonnell, Married at First Sight star Jamie Otis and Americas Got Talent judge Howie Mandel singing its praises.

Fans enthusiastically embraced the song making their own videos for TikTok and most recently, a young girl shared a video of herself singing the song in her camp talent show. Jax even organized a flash mob in Los Angeles outside of a Victorias Secret store, and women of all shapes, sizes and even a girl in a wheelchair were featured.

The flash mob was so much fun because I cant dance. So I had a bunch of professional dancers who, because theyre professional dancers, had gone through even worse things about their body than I had growing up, she said. So it was almost like a therapy retreat for two hours of them desperately trying to help me learn these moves that I couldnt learn. And then we got there and we finished the dance and it was very cool.

The outpouring of love has extended to the pop charts hitting the No. 2 on the Spotify U.S. Viral 50 (No. 15 Global), No. 4 on the Billboard Emerging Artist chart, and No. 10 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100 Chart. In another surprise, the song hit the No. 1 position on Tampas iHeartRadio countdown show of top songs on 93.3 FLZ.

They surprised me with a lot of random support and I got to hear it on the radio. They didnt tell me, they told me, sit down, were going to air this. Thats happened in the past, especially with SiriusXM, she said. But they didnt tell me it was in the No. 1 slot.

Just this week, the song made its major market debut in New York City on Z100. The experience, Jax says, has been overwhelming.

Not only did I feel like I maybe spread a message that people have a hard time addressing, but it was cathartic for me to hear other people sharing their stories, she says. So I felt really not alone anymore in this.

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Zazie Beetz is being eyed to return to the upcoming Joker sequel Folie a Deux, Variety has confirmed.

Beetz appeared in the original 2019 Joker as Sophie Dumond, a single mother and the neighbor of Joaquin Phoenixs Arthur Fleck. How Beetz could reprise her role is an open question: Although the film depicted Arthur entering into a romantic relationship with Sophie, its revealed that the majority of their scenes together were a delusion from Arthurs imagination. The film left Sophies fate ambiguous, with Arthur leaving her apartment after realizing they werent truly in a relationship, so its possible Beetz could appear as a fantasy rather than a real human being.

Should she return, Beetz would re-team with Phoenix and original Joker director Todd Phillips, who is co-writing the script with Scott Silver. Lady Gaga is reportedly playing Harley Quinn, the Jokers longtime comic book love interest and criminal accomplice. Shooting should start in December, with a release date set for Oct. 4, 2024  five years to the day that the original film first opened.

The news of Beetzs return to the part comes in the middle of a busy year for the actor, who was most recently seen in the David Leitch action flick Bullet Train alongside Brad Pitt, Joey King, Michael Shannon, Sandra Bullock and Bad Bunny. In addition, her and Bullet Train co-star Brian Tyree Henry appeared in Season 3 of Atlanta, which premiered on FX this March, and will return for its fourth and final season this September. Other upcoming projects for the actor include Season 2 of the Amazon Prime series Invincible and an episode of the Netflix anthology series Black Mirror.

For more information on Joker: Folie a Deux, check out Varietys running list of everything we know about the highly anticipated sequel.

Deadline was the first to report the prospect of Beetz returning to the film.

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On Monday, the Laredo Health Department received a substantial federal grant that will help them fund mental illness resources for more than 300 individuals for the next four years.

Rep. Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $4 million for the City of Laredo Assisted Outpatient Treatment Program that will be given in increments of $1 million per year to the City of Laredo Health Department.

The $4 million will go directly to the health department's Laredo Assistant Outpatient Treatment Program, in which $1 million a year will be provided to the health organization for the program.

The funds will approximately help 340 individuals with serious mental illnesses starting out with 40 people the first year and then add 80, and then it keeps on that amount to 120 during that fourth year, Cuellar said. These services are to help individuals avoid their relapse, repeated hospitalizations, arrests, suicide, property destruction or violent behaviors.

This AOT program for Webb County is going to be important, as the congressman states that about 15% of people in the county experienced some type of frequent mental health duress. He states that these mental health concerns are not just bad for the individual who is ill but also for the families and loved ones of the individual.

We do know that our community is a medically underserved community, a designated health shortage community, and we at the city of Laredo Health continue to champion the causes to seek and bring additional awards for the community to continue to expand on the necessary services that Laredo deserves," City of Laredo Health Director Dr. Richard A. Chamberlain said.

According to the health director, the AOT program will help support evidence-based practices to reduce the incidents and duration of psychiatric hospitalization, incarceration, homelessness and interaction with the criminal justice system.

Cuellar states that around the state the need is even greater as at least about 706,000 people require the needs of mental health resources.

"It is important that we understand that in an area like Laredo, we have the capacity to treat this," Cuellar said. In Laredo, we have a lot of folks with the capacity and expertise to provide that, and that is why it is important as we know that for mental illness, a lot of things can happen and a lot of repercussions.

He states that mental illness can be grave which can lead to suicide. The latest figures from 2020 showed that 3,030 individuals in Texas died by suicide that year, and most were related to some mental illness affecting their minds health.

Cuellar hopes that the AOT Program will make health mental resources much more accessible to all those in need of it and also make sure that they do use such funds.

Cuellar stated that in the past couple of years, his office has been able to make more announcements for health organizations like SCAN Inc., PILLAR and others that help mental health, even though in the old days many people did not want to talk about the matter. He states that Congress will continue to add more money to the issue, as people and health organizations begin to understand the importance of discussing it and providing resources for those affected.

"Mental illness is one of those things that people didn't want to talk about because there is a stigma to it, but as you know there are a lot of events that happened afterward and a lot of things when somebody out in the streets or a good percentage of people in our jails have a mental illness, Cuellar said. We need this funding because of the need and the assistance that we can provide to its care."

Cuellar said statistics show that one in four individuals who have been arrested have some form of mental illness. He states that putting them in a warehouse or jail is definitely not the answer to helping these individuals rehabilitate.

This is why working and trying to prevent from them getting in there is going to be important, Cuellar said. "Another reason why this is important is that in Webb County about 40 individuals per 100,000 were deaths of despair, and by despair this means suicide, drug overdose or some other kind of mental health."

The AOT Program is an integrated behavioral approach with the goal of improving access and adherence to intensive behavioral health services in order to avert relapse, repeated hospitalizations, arrests, incarcerations, suicide, property destruction and violent behaviors in the Webb County region.

More specifically, the program will aim to make mental health services more accessible. Services will be focused on providing intensive case management which include behavioral health screening and support services (psychoeducation, support groups), psychiatric services, medication management, intensive case management, outreach services, HIV/STD testing, education and risk reduction, as well as primary care.

Cuellar states that the average per 100,000 in the state is 37, which shows how the higher need is in the Webb County community, and he intends to make sure those affected are assisted to prevent any more of these actions.
Cuate Santos / Laredo Morning Times

The Webb County Sheriff's Office will be holding a back-to-school event before local children return to schools this week.

The Sheriff's Office announced Monday that it would be holding the Back To School Supply Giveaway on Tuesday, Aug. 9 from 11 a.m. to noon while supplies last.
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CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  The U.S. deputy secretary of state said Monday the prime minister of the Solomon Islands missed an important opportunity by failing to attend a memorial service to mark the anniversary of a key World War II battle, amid concerns the South Pacific island nation is building closer ties with China.

Wendy Sherman and U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy were among dignitaries who attended a dawn service near the capital of Honiara on Sunday to commemorate the Battle of Guadalcanal.

Shermans father, Marine Mal Sherman, and Kennedys father, the late President John F. Kennedy, almost died in fighting on the Solomons. Kennedy had been the commander of a patrol torpedo boat that was rammed and sunk by a Japanese destroyer. Sherman was wounded during the Guadalcanal campaign, which was the Japanese armys first defeat of WWII.

Local media reported that Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who signed a security pact with China this year, appeared to have snubbed the ceremony, a claim his office later denied.

Sherman declined to say whether she considered the prime ministers absence a snub. She said Sogavare will have to answer to his own citizens about why he made the choice that he did, in an apparent reference to the next election.

I said to the prime minister directly that I was so sorry that obviously his schedule did not allow him to come because he missed an important opportunity, Sherman told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

This was a place where international leaders gathered to say that the work with Solomon Islanders, at the time of World War II, was decisive in victory, in ensuring freedom and democracy. And so I really felt sorry for the prime minister because I think he missed an important opportunity, she added.

Sogavare denied a snub, telling the Solomons Star News newspaper in a statement that the government was well represented at all events over three days marking the anniversary at ministerial levels.

The statement said newspaper claims of a snub were misleading and lacked understanding of protocols applied at such events.

The pact with China has raised fears of a Chinese naval base being established within 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) of Australias northeast coast. A Chinese military presence in the Solomons would put it not only on the doorstep of Australia and New Zealand but also in close proximity to Guam, the U.S. territory that hosts major military bases.

Both the Solomons and China have denied their pact will lead to a Chinese military foothold in the South Pacific.

Sherman said Sogavare had repeated the assurance during her recent visit that there would be no Chinese base.

This is a situation where we will all watch very carefully to see what happens here. It is quite critical, Sherman said.

In April, a U.S. delegation to Honiara led by Kurt Campbell, the National Security Council Indo-Pacific coordinator, and Daniel Kritenbrink, the assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, warned that the United States would take unspecified action against the Solomons should the agreement with China pose a threat to U.S. or allied interests.

Sogavare accused the U.S. and Australia of threatening and disrespectful behavior.

Chinas growing influence in the Pacific has led the United States to commit to reopening an embassy in Honiara that it closed in 1993. Washington has also committed to opening embassies in Tonga and Kiribati, a Micronesian state that, like the Solomons, recently switched its allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing.

A Solomons ceremony on Monday, a day after the commemoration that Sherman and Kennedy attended, was briefly interrupted when an assailant armed with a pair of scissors attacked a Japanese sailor.

Radio New Zealand reported that the victim was part of a Japanese navy media team and was stabbed in the neck, receiving minor injuries.

The report quoted medics as saying the sailor required stitches but was doing well. Bloody Ridge community chief Wesley Ramo said the suspect was from a neighboring community and was under the influence and mentally unstable.

Also attending the ceremony were Makoto Oniki, Japans state minister of defense, and Peeni Henare, New Zealands defense minister.

The suspect reportedly tackled the sailor to the ground during the attack before locals and U.S. military personnel stepped in and detained him. Police then took him away. The ceremony resumed after a short break.
Sasi Ponchaisang / EyeEm/Getty Images/EyeEm

As students prepare to head back to school, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services will hand out hundreds of backpacks to children throughout the state, according to a news release.

Businesses around Texas donated the backpacks loaded with school supplies to nonprofit Partnerships for Change, which supports children and families connected with Child Protective Services.
Anadolu Agency/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

A CPAC panel featuring a Houston-area state school board candidate proudly displayed a banner proclaiming "We Are All Domestic Terrorists" during a Saturday session in the main event hall.

The panel was preceded by an announcer's voice stating: "Ladies and gentlemen: We are all Domestic Terrorists!" over the venue's speaker system. The announcement was matched by white text superimposed on a blue backdrop and banner that displayed the same message, according to video captured by a freelance reporter @Acyn.
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Food, Wine, & Dining

By Long Island News & PR Published: August 09 2022

Another location for the Lily Flanagan's Restaurant Group.

The Lily Flanagans Restaurant Group is serving up beer and grub in a new spot, bringing their locally famous pub style to Farmingdale with The Villager. The new Farmingdale pub joins sister restaurants Lilys, The Villager, and The Local all in Babylon, and Oakdale Brew House and the Wharf in Oakdale.

On the menu are shareable plates like their charcuterie board with burrata, prairie cheddar, assorted Italian cured salami, prosciutto wrapped asparagus accompanied by honeycomb, mango jam, and grain mustard ($28), the Firehouse Sliders with blackened slider patty's, pepper jack, chipotle aioli, cherry peppers, and guacamole ($15), and the Mediterranean Platter with roasted garlic hummus, pita, mixed olives, crudite, feta, tzatziki, marinated artichokes ($16).

The Villager also is serving up tacos. Try the Green Dragon, made up of tempura shrimp, cucumbers, avocado, sticky mango sauce, tobiko, and corn tortillas ($17). Of course, no pub would be complete without handhelds. Burgers are made with their signature angus blend. The Classic is topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles ($15) or try out the Mushroom Swiss Burger, with sauteed wild mushrooms, truffle arugula salad, swiss, and rosemary aioli ($18). The also have a delicious-sounding Lobster Roll with claw and knuckle lobster, choice of classic New England style or Connecticut style, and served on butter brioche roll ($32).

Photo: The Villager Facebook page.

Their taps pour a litany of standard and craft beers. If craft cocktails are your thing dont fret. They have plenty. The Good Vibes Only, made from citrus vodka, watermelon puree, lemon and club ($12) is a refreshing summer drink that pops off the menu. Or try out the Kentucky King with bourbon blackberry honey, lemon and mint ($12).

On Yelp, Nick F, from Massapequa, gave The Villager five stars.

Our visit to The Villager this early evening exceeded every expectation for a casual local dinner, he said. It's great to have a new casual favorite in Farmingdale!!

Location: 306 Main Street, Farmingdale, (516) 461-4880.
Local News, Crime

By Long Island Published: August 09 2022

Edward Mercado of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced to serve 7 years in federal prison for traveling to New York from California for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a 10-year-old child

Edward Mercado, age 35, of Los Angeles, California, was sentenced on August 3rd to serve 7 years in federal prison for traveling to New York from California for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a 10-year-old child. The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Janeen DiGuiseppi, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

As part of his previous guilty plea, Mercado admitted that from May of 2021 through June of 2021 he engaged in numerous telephone conversations and exchanged sexually explicit text messages with an undercover officer posing as the mother of 10-year-old girl. In these telephone calls and text messages, Mercado expressed a desire to engage in sexually explicit conduct with the child. Mercado further admitted that on June 3, 2021, he traveled from California to Syracuse, New York in order to meet with the child and engage in sexual conduct with her at a location in the Ithaca area. Mercado was arrested after arriving at the Syracuse airport and has been in custody since that date.

United States District Judge David N. Hurd also imposed a 15 year term of supervised release, which will start after Mercado is released from prison, and ordered him to pay a $3,000 fine and a $100 special assessment. Mercado will also be required to register as a sex offender.

This case was investigated by the FBI Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force, comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators of the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI). The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Brown as a part of Project Safe Childhood.

Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorneys Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), and is designed to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
(Alliance News) - BP PLC on Monday said it has reached an agreement to sells its 50% in the BP-Husky Toledo refinery in the US state of Ohio to Cenovus Energy Inc, its joint venture partner in the facility.

Back in 2008, BP formed a joint venture, when Husky Energy Inc acquired a 50% stake in BP's Toledo refinery. In January 2021, Calgary-based oil firm Cenovus combined with Husky in an all-stock transaction.

Since then, the BP-operated refinery has played an "important" part of Ohio's economy, processing up to 160,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

Under the agreement, which is expected to close later this year, Cenovus will pay USD300 million in cash for BP's stake in the refinery, plus the value of inventory.

BP said it will enter a multi-year product supply agreement with Cenovus, the details of which were not disclosed.

This news follows a separate deal with Cenovus, which was announced back in June. BP said it had sold its 50% stake in the Sunrise oil sands projects in the western Canada province of Alberta to Cenovus.

The transaction, which also is due to close in 2022, will see BP receive up to USD934 million in cash, over the course of two years. On top of that, BP will receive a 35% stake in Cenovus's Bay du Nord project off the eastern Canada province of Newfoundland & Labrador.

Following the close of the deal, BP will no longer have interests in oil sands production and will shift its focus to future potential offshore growth in Canada. Oil sands production is controversial due to the environmental impact of its extraction and the high emissions cause when it is burned.

Meanwhile, in the US, BP's refining portfolio will reduce from three to two facilities, once its stake in the BP-Husky Toledo refinery has been sold.

"Going forward, BP will focus investment on its Whiting refinery in Indiana and Cherry Point refinery in Washington, which are strategically positioned to serve customers in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest," the company said.

When taken together, these two deals will "reshape" its North American oil and gas portfolio for long-term profitable growth, BP added.

BP America Chair & President Dave Lawler said: "We are proud of the business we have built in Toledo, which has provided thousands of good-paying jobs and made significant contributions to Ohios economy and Americas energy security for decades. As our partner in Ohio, Cenovus is ideally placed to take this important business into the future."

Shares in BP were up 2.0% to 424.68 pence each in London on Tuesday afternoon.

By Sophie Rose; sophierose@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Thor Mining PLC - Australia-focused exploration and development company - Says OZ Minerals Ltd agrees to provide AUD2.5 million, around GBP1.4 million, funding support for technical investigations into in situ recovery technology at EnviroCopper Ltd, Kapunda copper-gold ISR project in South Australia. Thor holds a 30% stake in ECL, and the funding will be non-dilutive to its holding. The funds will be used to continue studies into the potential economic extraction of copper resources via ISR, Thor says.

"This is a validation of the previous work by ECL on In-Situ Recovery of copper at the Kapunda project, in cooperation with the Commonwealth Scientific & Industrial Research Organisation and the University of Adelaide under a CRC-P grant," says Managing Director Nicole Galloway Warland.

Current stock price: 0.52 pence, up 9.4% on Tuesday in London

12-month change: down 29%

By Elizabeth Winter; elizabethwinter@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
West - who is a 45-year-old man - deleted the post soon after, and apparently, Kim K had something to do with that.

A source close to Kim K talked to Daily Mail, saying shes been sticking up for Pete and is totally sick of Kanyes antics.

She has been vigorously defending Pete, the insider said.

Shell never get back together with Kanye over the way hes treated the people she loves and respects.

She has tried incredibly hard to have a good co-parenting situation for the children.

She wont stand this type of behaviour from him.
Spains government said that an energy saving plan approved last week will not be postponed and is mandatory, despite calls by the opposition and regional chiefs for it to be changed or scrapped over fears it could hurt tourism.

The plan, which will take full effect tomorrow and requires air conditioning to be turned down in hotels, restaurants and stores and restrictions on lighting, will save between 4% and 5% of Spains energy use, Energy Minister Teresa Ribera told a news conference on Monday.

Last month, EU countries agreed to voluntarily reduce gas use by 15% to prepare for a shut-off of Russian supply. Countries like Spain that argue they have a limited ability to export gas to EU neighbours can request a lower target of around 7%.

Ribera said that while regions could propose new and concrete proposals for tweaks to the plan before August 31, there was no going back.

The royal decree is already in force. We cannot postpone it, she said after a virtual meeting with energy ministers for the 17 regions.

Regions held by the right-wing opposition Peoples Party (PP), such as Madrid, say the plan was too heavy a burden on their economies. In highly-decentralized Spain, regional authorities will be responsible for its enforcement, raising the risk they could derail it.

The PP on Monday formally asked the government to withdraw the royal decree approved last week.

(This decree) has been prepared without measuring the economic impact on trade, tourism or culture, Miguel Tellado, a spokesman for the PP, said on Monday.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez appealed to the PP to show unity, responsibility and solidarity by backing the plan.

I know Im preaching in the desert though, as we have a negationist opposition, he told reporters at a news conference.
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MANISTEE  When Jason Freeman, of Manistee, saw what was happening as a result of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, he wanted to do something.

Fortunately, Freeman has the experience to do just that.

The U.S. Army veteran will head overseas on Aug. 15 to join the war in Ukraine.

"As I started seeing the civilians being killed ... I've been doing paperwork and getting connections for the last four months," he said.

Ukraine has been seeking volunteers with combat experience to join the war effort.

"When they were taking everybody, they realized that they were getting civilians and people who were either crazy or didn't know how to act under pressure," Freeman said. "So now the military will only allow prior service members or people who've served as a police officer, EMT or some type of medical emergency type over there instead of just the average human being."

And Freeman is not the average human being, having served as a transporter for six years in the Army and another two as a private contractor. He had two deployments to Iraq and his last duty station was Mannheim, Germany.

"I ended up getting put on a lot of security details, escorting infantry units through or providing security for civilians, because there's a bunch of civilian contractors that would go through with their trucks  stuff along those lines," he said. "(I did) a lot of checkpoint security, a lot of guard tower security. Then I got put on a Military Engagement Team, which means we would go in and kick in doors of people suspected of helping Al Qaeda or whatever terrorist cell group that was in there."

Freeman said he knew he had the ability to make a difference in Ukraine.

"I know it sounds weird, but I'm built for this. I'm built for war," he said. "I'm built for being able to try to save people, trying to calm people down. When the (stuff) hits the fan, for some reason, I'm able to keep myself together quite well.

"I know they need help."

Freeman's parents, Mike Howard and Brenda Cronan, own Rosie's Place, located at 9567 Chippewa Highway in Bear Lake. He said there is a donation box there for those willing to support his calling. He plans to use any money raised to get more gear for himself and the other people fighting in the war.

"Now I'm flying over there  I had to buy my own ticket," he said. "I maxed out my credit cards, I broke into my savings  I bought at least $10,000 worth of gear to take over there for my protection, plus extra stuff like first-aid kits, bandages and stuff like that to try to give out to some of the extra guys when I get there."

The 2004 Manistee High School graduate said he grew up wanting to be in the military and now wants to do what he can to make sure as many Americans as possible make it back home.

"At the age of 5, all I wanted to do was be a soldier. I wanted to help other countries," he said. "My thing is, I'd rather go over there now and prevent soldiers or our boys from being killed later on. Especially if this war blows up with Russia or China causing World War III to start, I'd rather be over there now to save as many American boys as I can before they get involved."

Freeman's journey will see him go to Germany and Warsaw, Poland before finally reaching the Medyka border crossing.

"That's where I will meet the Ukrainian soldiers. I will let the lieutenant colonel know that I'm there, and from there they escort me to Lviv," he said. "Lviv is where the (International Legion of Defense of Ukraine) headquarters is. The legion is all volunteers. They'll escort me there to where I sign my contract for the military. ... Technically, I will be a part of the Ukrainian Army."

Freeman said he will be placed with other people who speak English to avoid any language barriers.

"According to information I've pulled and the people I know, they keep a lot of the volunteers together, and then they normally use two Ukrainian commanders who speak English fluently, and then a bunch of volunteer sergeants from the Ukrainian Army that also speak English, so we can communicate and yell at each other to make sure everything's going on," he said.

Freeman said he is trying to spend as much time as possible with those he cares about before he ships out.

"It hurts me because I don't want to see my family or any of my friends sad because I might not make it back. I understand that there's a high chance that I might not come back, and I'm OK with that," he said. "Not that I want that to happen, but I'm signing up for the same reason I signed up for the military. I know there's a high likelihood that death is going to try to take me, but I'm pretty stubborn.

"I tell myself I'm immortal, I'm going to live forever, so I'm not going to make it easy for them if they try."
Last week, Amber Heard was spotted in Israel dining at a Tel Aviv cafe with journalist Eve Barlow, one of her staunchest defenders who was barred from the highly publicized Johnny Depp defamation trial.

Online reports claim that on August 1, Heard, 36, was seated at a table outside with Barlow.

After being caught tweeting and texting from the front row, which is designated for attorneys, Barlow was expelled from the Fairfax, Virginia, courtroom in April by Depp's attorneys.

The attorneys Johnny Depp successfully moved to have Barlow permanently excluded from the proceedings for disobeying a court order banning phone use.

However, during the Fairfax County Circuit Court trial, Barlow continued to tweet unceasing messages of support for Heard outside of the courtroom.

The former deputy editor of the revered music publication NME and a contributor to New York magazine have denounced Depp supporters as misogynists and abusers. Online, Barlow has been viciously attacked by Depp backers.

Amber Heard's Israel trip

Heard visited Halper's Books in Tel Aviv on August 2 while visiting the Holy Land, where she spent nearly an hour perusing the shelves with her infant daughter, Oonagh Paige Heard, according to the store's proprietor, J.C. Halper.

The "Aquaman" actress purchased Halper's own book, "The Bibliomaniacs: Tales from a Tel Aviv Bookseller," and he shared a photo of her there on Facebook.

"Now I will dip my big toe into the cesspool of Johnny vs. Amber squabble and lay out a couple of facts in Amber's favor," he wrote in a Facebook post. "She is a strong supporter of Israel, Jews and Israel's cause...And expresses it by wearing a gold Jewish star around her neck."

Since her memorable court case, Heard has kept a low profile. On June 1, Depp obtained a $10.35 million judgment against her following a six-week, nationally televised trial that made the most private aspects of the feuding ex-lives couple's public.

Heard was found guilty of defaming her ex-husband in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed in which she claimed to be a victim of domestic abuse by a jury of seven people.
Note: for Spring 2022 we will be open from January 31st to May 3, 2022.

Our Philosophy

The MCLA Writing Studio is a space where writers collaborate and create. All writers, from first-year students to faculty members, staff, and alumni are welcome. Our trained writing associates will collaborate with writers at any stage of the writing process: from understanding assignments and brainstorming ideas to planning, revising and polishing final drafts. All types of writing are welcome, from argumentative essays, to lab reports, to creative writing, to career materials and Power Point presentations. If you can create it, we can work with you on it!

We in the Writing Studio are also committed to anti-oppressive tutoring practices. For more information on the ways we work to value the many voices and motivations writers bring with them, please see our Statement on Linguistic Justice, which was collaboratively crafted by Writing Associates and students in the Writing Associate Workshop in Spring 2021.

Join us for a conversation about a text you are writing and leave with more confidence in yourself as a writer!

Our Services

This year, we offer two different types of appointments to meet your writing and test-prep needs. Our tutoring software, WCOnline, allows you to sign up for a traditional face-to-face appointment with a trained, masked Writing Associate, or for an asynchronous eTutoring appointment where you can receive written feedback on a draft within 24 hours. Read the descriptions below to figure out which appointment type best fits your needs.

in-person, face-to-face appointments

This type of appointment, generally our most popular, is ideal for writers who prefer in-person conversation. Come visit us in Murdock 120 and we'll get to know you as a writer, discuss the assignment together, and then ask you what kind of feedback you'd like before embarking on our tutoring session. Be ready for lots of questions and interaction! To protect yourself and the Writing Associate with whom you work, please wear your mask at all times.

To make a Face-to-Face appointment , click "Schedule Appointment" below, choose an available appointment slot , choose Face-to-Face Tutoring, and fill in the required information.

, click "Schedule Appointment" below, , choose and fill in the required information. You may also drop by Murdock 120 for a walk-in appointment , but writers with appointments get priority. During busy times of the year, like midterms and finals , we recommend making an appointment in advance .

, but writers with appointments get priority. During of the year, like and , we recommend making an appointment . If you are uncomfortable sharing printed documents , please upload your text and the essay prompt to the appointment slot. Otherwise, feel free to bring two printed copies of what you'd like to work on, one for you and one for the Writing Associate.

, please and the to the appointment slot. Otherwise, feel free to bring two printed copies of what you'd like to work on, one for you and one for the Writing Associate. Please bring your laptop and your own pencil and paper to the appointment, too. The Writing Associate will also take notes based on your conversation and provide them to you at the end of your appointment.

Asynchronous e-tutoring

This type of remote tutoring occurs without direct contact with the Writing Associate. Youll upload your text and the essay prompt prior to your appointment time. Then, during your appointment time, the Writing Associate will use the Microsoft Word commenting function to ask clarifying questions in the margins of the text, to point to grammatical patterns, and so forth. They will also draft an end comment summarizing their marginal comments to help you prioritize. If applicable, they might also include links to online resources that may be useful to you as you revise and self-edit.

This type of online tutoring is ideal for writers who cant meet in real time during our posted hours , or for those writers who already have a draft. For brainstorming sessions, please consider making a Face-to-Face appointment.

, or for those writers For brainstorming sessions, please consider making a Face-to-Face appointment. To participate, click Schedule Appointment below, choose a Writing Associate who is available for Asynchronous eTutoring,  and fill out the required information.

who is  and fill out the required information. Then, prior to your appointment time , please upload to your appointment slot the essay prompt and an assignment of no more than 7 pages . If you have multiple documents that exceed 7 pages, or an essay that is more than 7 pages, please make another appointment, as the Writing Associate has only an hour per appointment slot to provide feedback.

, please upload to your appointment slot and . If you have multiple documents that exceed 7 pages, or an essay that is more than 7 pages, please make another appointment, as the Writing Associate has only an hour per appointment slot to provide feedback. You will receive an email notification from WCOnline when the Writing Associate has uploaded their feedback . Generally, you'll receive this feedback within 24 hours of your appointment slot.

from WCOnline when the Writing Associate has . Generally, you'll receive this feedback within 24 hours of your appointment slot. Here's a short video on asynchronous appointments.

MTEL TEST PREP SUPPORT

The Writing Studio is happy to announce a new service for students taking the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (the MTEL)! We now have MTEL Associates available to discuss tips and tricks for taking this important test.

There are many ways the Writing Studio can help you prepare for this high-stakes test:

We can help you come up with brainstorming and planning strategies to help you better craft your timed essays.

We can help you understand MTEL prompts (we have a few on hand).

We can help you with the grammar portion of the MTEL (we have a few on hand).

We can proctor practice MTEL tests with samples we have on hand if youd like to practice what it feels like to take a timed test in a supportive environment.

We can provide feedback on MTEL practice essays youve already created.

Make a face-to-face appointment with an MTEL Associate by clicking "Schedule Appointment" below. Be sure you sign up for an appointment with Chloe Mascitelli, as not all of our Writing Associates are trained to work with MTEL prep. We also recommend making a Face-to-Face appointment, rather than an Asynchronous eTutoring appointment, as test-taking support works better with real-time conversation.

Schedule appointment
South Korea naturally wins respect when it adheres to independent diplomacy

By Global Times editorial (Global Times) 09:58, August 09, 2022

South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin landed in Qingdao, Shandong Province, on Monday afternoon, kick-starting his first visit to China since taking office. This is also the first high-level South Korean delegation to visit China since the new administration of President Yoon Suk-yeol assumed office. Both China and South Korea attach great importance to the visit, and there are many topics worthy of in-depth communication between the two sides. In addition, the visit comes right after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan island, which has caused a serious impact on the situation in East Asia and attracted great attention as well as complicated interpretations from the international society.

Many people have noticed that during Pelosi's visit to South Korea after the Taiwan island visit, Yoon and Park did not meet her. South Korean officials also deliberately avoided discussing the Taiwan question with Pelosi. In terms of such arrangement, South Korea has considerations for its special geographical position, which cannot be viewed in a simplistic way. Still, the Chinese society generally regards it as a demonstration of South Korea's independent diplomacy and rationality toward China, especially in sharp contrast with Japan. As a result, South Korea has won recognition and respect from Chinese society. To a certain extent, this has created a constructive and positive atmosphere for Park's China visit.

But obviously, some countries do not want to see China-South Korea relations maintain a healthy and stable momentum of development. When China and South Korea make efforts to meet each other halfway, cold water is often poured toward them, mixed with sinister questioning and provocation. This time too. Major media outlets in the US and the West, including South Korea's conservative public opinion, are accustomed to highlighting and amplifying the negative aspect of China-South Korea relations, creating differences, contradictions and even confrontations.

Some realities are indeed worrying. The voices advocating mutual benefit and friendly cooperation between China and South Korea have been weakened, while the radical attitude full of emotional shortsightedness has been strengthened. If China-South Korea ties are to move forward, the practical resistance they face is increasing. China and South Korea must step over the pits dug by those people and break through the barriers they set up.

We noticed that the Yoon administration has always intentionally made efforts to avoid being kidnapped by populism in the three months since taking office. While strengthening its alliance with the US and de-escalating tensions with Japan, it has also paid relatively much attention to its relations with China, maintaining a generally stable trend in China-South Korea relations. It is important to emphasize that such a dynamic relationship should be further consolidated and carried on, which is in the interest of both China and South Korea.

The issue of THAAD deployment is a major hidden danger that cannot be avoided in China-South Korea ties. We are not against South Korea taking necessary measures to maintain its own security, but they cannot be based on compromising the security interests of China, South Korea's friendly neighbor. THAAD is a wedge Washington is trying to drive into Northeast Asia, to disturb the region so it can profit from the conflicts. We hope Seoul will not interpret its due respect toward Beijing's strategic interests as "yielding to China." On the contrary, it should see that it is precisely "yielding to US interests" by deploying THAAD under Washington's pressure. China has never told South Korea how to make "friends," but South Korea should never accept a knife handed by its "friends."

In addition, another urgent issue for South Korea is that the US will hold a working-level meeting of the so-called Chip 4, an envisioned alliance of chip-making powerhouses - the US, Japan, South Korea, and China's Taiwan - at the end of August. Recently, South Korean media have been debating whether the country should participate in the meeting and how it should be done. According to the latest reports from South Korean media, South Korean government recently expressed intent to join preliminary "Chip 4" meeting, and to reason with the other participants to "respect the one-China policy and avoid mentioning about any export barriers to China." In short, they should not "provoke China." If South Korea has to join small cliques pieced together by the US, the global community will expect to see South Korea truly play a balancing and corrective role. This also manifests Seoul's unique value.

South Korea is an important regional country in a sensitive and special geopolitical location. As mentioned earlier, the country's interests and policy orientation are distinctly different from those of the US and Japan on the Taiwan question, the semiconductor supply chain, and the various US moves that contain China in the Asia-Pacific region. There is enough room for China-South Korea cooperation, as long as Seoul insists on considering issues from the perspective of reality and its long-term interests. It is believed that Park's ongoing trip to China will become an opportunity to promote further development of China-South Korea relations.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Our mission is to empower MCLA students to discover and achieve their academic and professional goals.

In the Office of Academic Advising & Support, youll find many resources to support your success such as academic advising, peer-led academic support, success coaching, and advising for students who are exploring their academic options.
Some of the rarest World War II aircraft in existence will be at MBS International Airport as part of the Commemorative Air Force Power History Tour

The national tour stop, scheduled for Aug. 11-14 at MBS, will feature historic World War II aircraft such as the B-29 Super Fortress and B-24 Liberator Diamond Lil.

The B-29 is a rare one, said MBS Airport Director James Canders of the Boeing-designed heavy bomber that was flown primarily by the United States during WWII and the Korean War. There are only two flying in the world and it was the same type that dropped the atomic bombs.

The planes, including a Stearman, the United States primary trainer aircraft for military during WWII, will be on display from 9 a.m. -5 p.m. each day of the MBS tour stop.

Its a plane from the early 30s used as an Army Air Corps and Navy trainer, said Canders of Stearman Aircrafts best known aircraft.

A P-51 Mustang Fighter and a T-6 Texan, a pilot trainer built for the Army Air Corps in the 1930s, will also be part of the 4-day display.

Canders anticipates up to 2,000 people to attend on Saturday, Aug. 13, and between 500-1,000 on the other days of the show.

Everyone at MBS is excited to host the Commemorative Air Force AirPower History Tour starting on August 11, he said. Having these historic aircraft land at our airport is a unique opportunity for the community to actually see, touch and ride in aircraft used during WWII.

"There are only a few of these aircraft flying and sharing their stories.
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A Bay City fire museum, site of the largest and most powerful fire truck the world has ever seen, will soon have a new place to call home.

Bay Citys Antique Toy & Fire Museum has announced plans to renovate and relocate to a 1890s era fire station it purchased in downtown Bay City.

Moving from its current pole-barn-like structure in Bangor Township to a newly modernized facility makes sense for a number of reasons, officials said, noting that the museums collection has grown to include thousands of curated items, including more than 60 vintage fire engines.

The chief attraction is clearly the New York City Fire Departments Super Pumper, the most powerful land-based fire engine ever. Designed by a naval engineer, it roamed the streets of New York City from 1965 through 1982.

Today, people come from all over the world to see the Super Pumper, said Mike Snyder, a Dow Chemical Co, retiree who sits on the fire museums board and is part of a group of dedicated volunteers that have been working on restoring some of the museums fire trucks for the past couple of years.

The group envisions a revived Bay City Fire Station No. 3, one of the citys original firehouses, becoming a regional attraction when its projected to open sometime next year.

The location of the current facility on Patterson Road in Bangor Township limits our visibility and prevents us from providing year-round museum tours to the public, Snyder said. Were upgrading the station to meet modern safety and accessibility standards so we can share it with our community and beyond.

The museum volunteers have successfully restored several fire trucks to operable condition and have been providing public demonstrations at festivals and car shows throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region. These demonstrations are a means to preserve the history of Mid-Michigan fire service and create awareness of the museum and what it represents.

Once opened, the new museum, a 7,000 sq. ft. building, will be an ideal venue to provide fire education programs and for people to see the more than 12,000 antique and collectible toys (many of them fire, police and rescue vehicles) that are part of its collection, officials said.

Drawing more tourists to downtown Bay City, an emphasis on STEM education and the ability to provide more fire service demonstrations are other activities the Antique Toy and Fire Museum plans to do out of a much-improved facility. It intends to maintain its Patterson Road facility for archival storage and maintenance activities.

Other plans include hosting an annual service day for local first responders to honor the memory of fellow comrades and the lives lost on 9-11; displaying items from the 1990 MV Jupiter Fire Explosion; and upgrading the Fire Department New York (FDNY) Super Pumper.

Community partners for the initiative include the Saginaw River Marine Historical Society, Great Lakes International Antique Fire Apparatus Association, Saginaw Castle Museum, and the Bay County Historical Society.

The communitys reaction has been supportive, particularly of getting the old fire station location back into a usable building that will host visitors, Snyder said. We are also getting many inquiries from tour operators that want to make the new location a stop on future itineraries.

Cost to refurbish the Bay City Fire Station is an estimated $2.5 million. The museum has launched a capital campaign seeking support from foundations, local corporations and private citizens. Interestingly, the old fire station never had fire trucks housed in it.

The fire station was used in the horse and buggy era, from about the late 1800s to about 1915, Snyder said. The original Pratt & Koppe-designed structure is in remarkably good shape and has a colorful history in both fire service and post fire-service uses.

There are three ways the public can help:

Donate to the museums capital campaign.

Become an annual member of the museum which includes unlimited free visits.

Share any relics you may have of Great Lakes Fire History for possible inclusion in future displays. The museum, Snyder said, is particularly interested in any objects related to Fire Station No. 3 and the Bay City Fire Alarm Telegraph (Gamewell) System.

The Antique Toy and Firehouse Museum was founded by Bay Citys Jimmie Dobson, who shared a love of fire trucks for over five decades with his late son, Jeffrey. Visit them online at toyandfirehousemuseum.org
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KINSHASA, Congo (AP)  U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday that his country will support the efforts led by Kenya and Angola to put an end to the violence in Congos east and to help solve the central African nations crisis with Rwanda.

Blinken traveled to Congos capital Kinshasa on Tuesday as part of his three-nation African tour. There, he met with Congo President Felix Tshisekedi and other government officials, including Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula who joined him at a press conference after meetings.

We want this violence in eastern Congo to end, Blinken said. We call on the M23 and all other armed groups to cease their actions, lay down their arms and come within the framework of the negotiation process.

Blinken is in Congo for two days and was expected to encourage solutions to the violence in eastern Congo where attacks have increased dramatically in the past month, with the resurgence of the M23 rebel group and ongoing violence by the many militia groups vying for control of the mineral-rich region.

More than 40 people were killed over the weekend in the Ituri province by two other rebel groups.

We are very concerned by credible reports that Rwanda has provided support to M23. We call on all parties in the region to stop any support or cooperation with M23 or, for that matter, any other non-state armed group. He said during a joint news conference with Lutundula.

Congo has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels. Rwanda, is rejecting a report by United Nations experts saying they have solid evidence that members of Rwandas armed forces are conducting operations in eastern Congo in support of the M23 rebel group.

Rwanda accuses Congo of collaborating with another rebel group, the FDLR, and said regional security cant be achieved until that issue is addressed. The FDLR was created by ethnic Hutus who fled Rwanda during the countrys 1994 genocide that killed at least 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus. Congo has denied supporting the group.

The violence in eastern Congo has killed dozens and displaced tens of thousands, worsening the already existed humanitarian crisis in the country.

Blinken will travel later Wednesday to Rwanda to meet with President Paul Kagame and his foreign minister.

The United States is doing everything it can to support the very important African-led mediation efforts, in particular the processes that are being led by Kenya and Angola, to bring peace, security and stability to the eastern Congo. We are not only following this very closely and carefully, were engaged in it, he said.

Relations between Congo and its smaller neighbor Rwanda have been fraught for decades. Rwanda alleges that Congo gave refuge to Hutus who carried out the genocide. In the late 1990s, Rwanda twice sent its forces deep into Congo, joining forces with Congolese rebel leader Laurent Kabila to depose the countrys longtime dictator Mobutu Sese Seko.

A meeting between Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi in Angola on July produced a statement calling for a return to normal diplomatic relations, a cessation of hostilities, and the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the M23 from its positions in eastern Congo.

Let me simply add that all countries have to respect their neighbors territorial integrity. This is a proposition that we take very seriously around the world. We spent some time talking about that when it comes to Ukraine, its equally important here, Blinken said.

The U.S. Secretary of State will meet with government leaders and civil society groups over his two-day visit to discuss partnerships for regional security, food insecurity, human rights issues, environmental conservation, climate change and bilateral trade and investment.

Blinken announced that Congo has joined the Feed the Future program, which deals with the food crisis caused by climate change, COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine, and to work in partnership with countries around the world to invest in sustainable, resilient food production for the long term.

Another topic on the table was climate change and the conservation of whats considered the second most important forest in the world.

Congos government was criticized last month when it opened an auction to explore 30 blocks of oil and gas located in the Peatlands in the Congo Basin forest, the worlds largest tropical peatland.

The government of the Republic will ensure that there are no candidates, there are no companies that will come to us to exploit and kill the ecology, Congos foreign minister Lutundula said.

He also announced that both countries will create a working group on climate change that will be a framework for consultation and joint action. This also is a guarantee, it is a structure that will help us reconcile the need for the Congolese to enjoy its natural wealth and to protect the common heritage of humanity.
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MANISTEE COUNTY  Supporting and investing in area youth has always been at the core of the Manistee County Community Foundations mission to enhance the quality of life for Manistee County residents.

That longstanding tradition continues through the foundation's announcement of 2022 scholarship awards.

During 2022 the foundation awarded 38 scholarships totaling $104,200 in support for Manistee County students for the upcoming 2022-23 academic year, and renewed 19 scholarships awarded previously.

Additionally, Manistee Commitment Scholarships of up to $5,000 each were awarded to 14 scholars in the class of 2022 to attend West Shore Community College this fall. The Manistee Commitment Scholarship Program was established in 2016 through the generosity of local philanthropists to build equity in access to postsecondary education for Manistee County students.

Through support from donors who share a passion for education, the foundation administers more than a dozen scholarship funds to support the postsecondary goals of Manistee County students. Scholarship funds vary in their eligibility and selection criteria. Various selection committees recommend recipients for consideration by the Manistee County Community Foundation Board of Directors.

We are deeply grateful to our donors for their generous support, which makes it possible for the foundation to provide these invaluable resources to area students, said Laura Heintzelman, foundation president and CEO, in a news release. It is an honor for the foundation to award these scholarships, and to invest in the future of our students and our community.

The foundations 2022 scholarship recipients by fund are as follows:

Robert J. Carlon Scholarship Fund

 Keera Groenwald, graduate of Bear Lake High School

CASMAN Academy Scholarship Fund

 Fatima Anguiano, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Hailey Cabot, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Elizabeth Carroll, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Ralph Carroll, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Lauryn Cook, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Daydreana Davis, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Elizabeth Garrett, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Ethan Raymond, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Cyerah Sielski, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Kyli Stoudt, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Jada Terryn, graduate of CASMAN Academy

Culbert Family Scholarship Fund (renewable one time)

 Madalyn Fox, graduate of Manistee High School

 Trevor Mikula, graduate of Manistee High School

Disabled American Veterans Chapter 43 Scholarship Fund

 Anjole Dull, graduate of Brethren High School

 Hogan Miller, graduate of Manistee High School

 Halle Richardson, graduate of Brethren High School

 Zachary Weber, college student and graduate of Manistee High School

Dr. Robert E. Fitch and Beverly J. Fitch Memorial Scholarship Fund

 Sophia Wisniski, graduate of Onekama High School

Gleason Memorial Scholarship Fund

 Luke Kooy, graduate of Manistee High School

 Macy Taylor, graduate of Manistee Catholic Central School

Karl and Irene Herrmann Family Scholarship Fund

 Luke Kooy, graduate of Manistee High School

Howard L. Hughes and Patricia A. Hughes Memorial Scholarship Fund

 Breanna Schneider, graduate of Onekama High School

Kaleva Community and Finnish Heritage Scholarship Fund

 Halle Richardson, graduate of Brethren High School

 Gavin Rudlaff, graduate of Brethren High School

Minger Family Endowment Scholarship Fund

 Kylah Fischer, college student and graduate of Brethren High School

 Keera Groenwald, graduate of Bear Lake High School

 Megan Gydesen, graduate of Bear Lake High School

 Trevor Mikula, graduate of Manistee High School

 Breanna Schneider, graduate of Onekama High School

 Alora Sundbeck, student at ASM Tech

 Kylar Thomas, graduate of Manistee High School

 Adam Vaas, student at ASM Tech

Ogilvie Memorial Scholarship Fund

 Sara Danison, graduate of Manistee High School

Doug Schlaff Memorial Scholarship Fund

 Brooklyn Berg, graduate of Manistee High School

Eva Seng Memorial Good Works Scholarship

 Calli Ronning, graduate of Manistee High School

Elroy and Carol Urbanus Scholarship Fund

 Megan Gydesen, graduate of Bear Lake High School

Manistee Commitment Scholarship Program Fund

 Perla Andres Velasquez, graduate of Onekama High School

 Madison Antal, graduate of Manistee Catholic Central School

 Zoey Bobbish, graduate of Brethren High School

 Destiny Edson, graduate of Bear Lake High School

 Marissa Frisbie, graduate of Bear Lake High School

 Megan Gydesen, graduate of Bear Lake High School

 Taryn Kempf, graduate of Manistee Catholic Central School

 Kyle McLinden, graduate of Manistee Catholic Central School

 Elyssa Miller, graduate of Manistee High School

 Piper Salmon, graduate of Manistee High School

 Cyerah Sielski, graduate of CASMAN Academy

 Audrey Stallings, graduate of Manistee High School

 Macy Taylor, graduate of Manistee Catholic Central School

 Emma Weaver, graduate of Brethren High School

It is an honor to award these students with Manistee Commitment Scholarships, said Hannah Rodriguez, foundation program officer, who leads the Manistee Commitment Scholarship Program for the foundation, in the release. Through their participation in the program over the past four years they have demonstrated a commitment to furthering their education after high school. We are impressed with all they have accomplished and look forward to working with our partners at West Shore Community College to welcome them to the college this fall.

The Manistee County Community Foundation is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Manistee County. Established in 1987, the foundation provides leadership to achieve community change, makes grants that address local needs and builds community endowment.

For additional information about the foundations scholarship program, to access the online application form or to learn about options for establishing a scholarship fund, visit manisteefoundation.org or call 231-723-7269.
BIG RAPIDS  A 3-year-old boy reported missing Monday evening has been found safe.

According to a news release from the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety, just before 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, officers responded to the 1100 block of Catherine Street for a report of a missing 3-year-old boy. The child had last been seen about 7 p.m. playing outside with other children.

Area residents joined law enforcement personnel from multiple agencies in searching the area for the boy, and an alert was sent out about 10 p.m. via Nixle.

At 10:53 p.m., police officers found the boy safe at his residence, according to the news release.

Big Rapids police officers were assisted by members of the Michigan State Police Mt Pleasant Post, Big Rapids Fire/Rescue, Big Rapids Township Fire, Mecosta County Sheriffs Office, Ferris State University DPS, Mecosta and Osceola Counties Emergency Management, and MECEOLA Central Dispatch.
MORLEY  Saturday will be a busy day at the Morley Community Center (MCC).

Like every other Saturday until October the Morley Market and MCC Garage sale will start at 9 a.m. This Saturday, however, will be a special day to celebrate our 100-year-old historic Community Center building. This former school building was constructed in 1922 and by 1923 there were over 280 students in school representing all grades from kindergarten through high school

At 11 a.m. in the gym, Winifred Rushmore, a 1942 high school graduate, will be present to be honored and to represent all the other students who passed through this building and the teachers, administrators and employees who served them. Winifred turns 98 in September and is the last surviving member of her class.

The Community Center will be open for a walk through following the gym presentation and the Stanwood Lions Club will have a special Centennial luncheon menu planned, with service in the MCC bus garage behind the Centennial building.

There will be lots for the kids to do starting at noon. Three inflatables will be operational on the playground in addition to the new toddler play area and all the rest of the playground equipment that was recently refurbished. There also will be a face painting booth for the kids.

Live music will start in the north lot at 1 p.m. Dan Yother and Friends will perform.

At 3:30 p.m., Art Smith Auctioneer Services will auction off lumber harvested from the 10 historic trees planted in the Centers south yard over 70 years ago. There will be a wide variety of 2 inch and 1 inch thick boards, many of which are 10-12 inches wide and 16 feet in length, with live edges.

The star of the collection is a board bearing the astonishing resemblance of the famous E.T., whose 40th anniversary is this year. For a donation to the Center, purchased lumber can be delivered.

Courtesy of Mary Ann Galloway

At the auction there will also be eight sets of fine Pfaltzgraff dishware plus antiques and a jewelry wagon filled with flea market items. Gift Certificates to local eating establishments will also be sold.

Due to a recent blood shortage, Versiti Blood will also be set up from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the cafeteria to welcome community donors. This gift for life stays in Michigan and is really needed.

Come and be part of this special day in Morley at the Community Center that serves its citizens in so many ways. Funds raised from our auction will help cover winter utility expenses.

IF YOU GO

Family Fun Day: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, at Morley Community Center, 151 7th St., Morley.
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DETROIT (AP)  The historic section of Detroit where Motown Records founder Berry Gordy Jr. built his music empire six decades ago is now looking better than ever.

Motown legend  and Gordy's best friend  Smokey Robinson was among those who visited the newly improved Motown Museum site on Monday night for an event celebrating the completion of the first two phases of the museum's expansion.

Robinson was joined by Otis Williams, Martha Reeves and other Motown luminaries in celebrating the grand opening of Hitsville NEXT, an educational programming and creative hub, and the newly established Rocket Plaza.

Kids who aren't even born yet will be aware of Motown, Robinson told The Associated Press during an interview ahead of the event held near the entrance to the museum. Some of their parents weren't even born when we started this. But it's a wonderful thing.

The festivities included comments from Robinson and Williams, an original founding member of The Temptations who gifted microphones to the museum from his personal collection.

And they concluded with a performance of the Temptations classic, My Girl, performed by the cast of the musical "Ain't Too Proud," and introduced by Marcus Paul James, who portrays Williams in the show.

I am very happy to be part of something  this here, Motown  (that will) outlast us all," Williams said.

The museum will continue to be housed in the famed Hitsville, U.S.A building at 2648 West Grand Boulevard.

But three nearby Motown-era buildings have been transformed into Hitsville NEXT, which will be home to camps, workshops, master classes and community events. It represents the first phase of the museum's expansion.

Phase two is Rocket Plaza, an outdoor plaza that will serve as a community gathering place and a welcome destination for museum visitors.

This plaza is the new front porch to Motown, said Robin Terry, Motown Museum chairwoman and CEO.

Gordy launched Motown in 1959. His late sister, Esther Gordy Edwards, founded the museum in the former Hitsville headquarters in 1985. In addition to Robinson and The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye and many others recorded hits there before Motown moved to California in 1972.

The museum is inviting the community to its Founders Day celebration on Saturday in honor of Gordy Edwards, the reopening and the completed expansion phases.

And the museum on Sunday will welcome back visitors for tours of Hitsville, U.S.A. following pandemic- and construction-related closures.
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Saginaw Valley State University welcomed President-elect George Grant Jr. on Tuesday afternoon.

Grant will serve as the fifth university president and its first president of color. He begins duties on Dec. 1.

"It (this university) is a part of the community, it is not separate," he told members of the press at an event in Curtiss Hall. "That passion that I have, plays out here every single day."

The Board of Control appointed Grant Tuesday morning during a special meeting, a press conference followed to introduce the newest member of university leadership. Grant will succeed Donald Bachand, who is retiring after serving as president since 2014.

Grant is currently serving as chancellor of Pennsylvania State University-Berks, a campus of more than 2,100 students, which he has led since Jan. 4, 2021. Prior to that, he spent 24 years at Grand Valley State University, including 12 years as dean of the College of Community and Public Service.

We are delighted that Chancellor Grant has agreed to join SVSU and serve as our next president, said Vicki Rupp, chair of the SVSU Board of Control. He is a caring, committed and innovative leader with an outstanding record of success in academic program development, fundraising, and community outreach, among many accomplishments.

As Detroit native, he welcomes the opportunity to return to his home state and to join a university that aligns with his personal values. In terms of how Grant sees SVSU fitting into the scope of 15 public universities in Michigan, Grant said the university collaborates with its education partners on how to build and attract talent to Michigan's industries.

"All of us are looking at the state and saying 'Our state can be stronger, we can bring people back,' that's a key point," he said. "If you look at Saginaw Valley, we have the skill set to address those issues and make a difference in this state. The model that we develop in the state will then be duplicated around the country."

More Information The SVSU campus community is pleased to welcome George Grant Jr. to serve as the institution's fifth president. The SVSU Board of Control announced the appointment Tuesday during a special meeting. See More Collapse

During his tenure as dean at Grand Valley, Grant raised more than $46 million. He also developed new academic programming to support adult learners who were juggling work, family, and other demands. Grant implemented Master of Social Work programs in rural communities across Michigan to give students access to an advanced degree to better serve their communities.

Grant studied at Wayne County Community College prior to completing a bachelors degree in social work at Marygrove College in Detroit. He later completed a masters degree in social work at Grand Valley State University and a Ph.D. in sociology at Western Michigan University. Grant also earned a certificate from the Harvard Institute in Educational Management.

Rajkumari Wiener, vice chair of the Board of Control and an SVSU alumna, appreciates Grants record of bringing people together.

Georges career has been characterized by his commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and diversity, Wiener said. He has a broad vision of institutional and community relationships. SVSU has been blessed with a great tradition of presidential leadership. George will add to that tradition.

SVSU has seen only four prior presidents since its founding in 1963.

This story was updated, following a press conference at Saginaw Valley State University on Tuesday
Ubly citizens might find a flock of flamingos in their yards when they wake up.

The Ubly Community Club is holding its flamingo fundraiser for the second year in a row, going until September or until the ground freezes

"You can't get flamingos in the frozen ground, right?" said Community Club member Amanda Sulkowski.

The idea came from other organizations like the CAN Council, which has been holding similar fundraisers for a while. The Community Club thought it would be a great, unique way to raise money and an alternative to the usual methods of bake sales or selling t-shirts.

The fundraiser invites anyone to call in a flock to the house of a friend or family member. Whether they're to welcome someone home after an extended trip, a birthday gift, or just because, Ubly citizens can help raise money at $30 per flock and give their loved ones a little surprise.

"It's fun to look out the window and see them all smiling back at you," Sulkowski said.

The money goes to the Community Club's scholarship fund, which goes to one qualified Ubly senior at the end of the next school year. So far, the fundraiser has raised around $200.
Vianney Le Caer/Vianney Le Caer/Invision/AP

Danish filmmaker Lars von Trier, known for films like Melancholia and Dancer in the Dark, has been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, his production company Zentropa said Monday.

The company said it released the information in order to avoid speculation about his health leading up to the premiere of his series The Kingdom Exodus at the Venice Film Festival next month. Zentropa said von Trier, 66, was diagnosed at the beginning of the summer.
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DUNCANSVILLE, Pa. (AP)  Researchers are seeking thousands of volunteers in the U.S. and Europe to test the first potential vaccine against Lyme disease in 20 years -- in hopes of better fighting the tick-borne threat.

Lyme is a growing problem, with cases rising and warming weather helping ticks expand their habitat. While a vaccine for dogs has long been available, the only Lyme vaccine for humans was pulled off the U.S. market in 2002 from lack of demand, leaving people to rely on bug spray and tick checks.

Now Pfizer and French biotech Valneva are aiming to avoid previous pitfalls in developing a new vaccine to protect both adults and kids as young as 5 from the most common Lyme strains on two continents.

There wasnt such a recognition, I think, of the severity of Lyme disease" and how many people it affects the last time around, Pfizer vaccine chief Annaliesa Anderson told The Associated Press.

Robert Terwilliger, an avid hunter and hiker, was first in line Friday when the study opened in central Pennsylvania. Hes seen lots of friends get Lyme and is tired of wondering if his next tick bite will make him sick.

Its always a worry, you know? Especially when youre sitting in a tree stand hunting and you feel something crawling on you, said Terwilliger, 60, of Williamsburg, Pennsylvania. Youve got to be very, very cautious.

Exactly how often Lyme disease strikes isn't clear. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cites insurance records suggesting 476,000 people are treated for Lyme in the U.S. each year. Pfizers Anderson put Europes yearly infections at about 130,000.

Black-legged ticks, also called deer ticks, carry Lyme-causing bacteria. The infection initially causes fatigue, fever and joint pain. Often -- but not always -- the first sign is a red, round bull's-eye rash.

Early antibiotic treatment is crucial, but it can be hard for people to tell if they were bitten by ticks, some as small as a pin. Untreated Lyme can cause severe arthritis and damage the heart and nervous system. Some people have lingering symptoms even after treatment.

Most vaccines against other diseases work after people are exposed to a germ. The Lyme vaccine offers a different strategy  working a step earlier to block a tick bite from transmitting the infection, said Dr. Gary Wormser, a Lyme expert at New York Medical College who isnt involved with the new research.

How? It targets an outer surface protein of the Lyme bacterium called OspA thats present in the ticks gut. Its estimated a tick must feed on someone for about 36 hours before the bacteria spreads to its victim. That delay gives time for antibodies the tick ingests from a vaccinated persons blood to attack the germs right at the source.

In small, early-stage studies, Pfizer and Valneva reported no safety problems and a good immune response. The newest study will test if the vaccine, called VLA15, really protects and is safe. The companies aim to recruit at least 6,000 people in Lyme-prone areas including the Northeast U.S. plus Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden.

Theyll receive three shots, either the vaccine or a placebo, between now and next springs tick season. A year later, theyll get a single booster dose.

Were really looking at something thats a seasonal vaccine, Anderson said, so people have high antibody levels during the months when ticks are most active.

Volunteers can be as young as 5 and should be at high risk because they spend a lot of time in tick-infested areas, such as hikers, campers and hunters, said Dr. Alan Kivitz who heads one of the study sites at Altoona Center for Clinical Research in Duncansville, Pennsylvania.

In his own practice, not a single day goes by that someone either has a concern about Lyme disease, could possibly have Lyme disease, Kivitz said.

This new candidate is different from a previous Lyme vaccine that GlaxoSmithKline pulled off the market in 2002 amid controversy and low sales. With about 75% effectiveness, that old Lyme shot got a lukewarm endorsement from vaccine experts, wasn't tested in children and drew unsubstantiated reports of joint-related side effects.

While the new Pfizer-Valneva vaccine also targets the OspA protein, it's engineered somewhat differently than its predecessor and also targets six Lyme strains in the U.S. and Europe instead of just one.

The Pfizer study will span two tick seasons to get answers  but it's not the only research into new ways to prevent Lyme. University of Massachusetts scientists are working on a vaccine alternative, shots of pre-made Lyme-fighting antibodies.

And Yale University researchers are in early stages of designing a vaccine that recognizes a tick's saliva  which in animal testing sparked a skin reaction that made it harder for ticks to hang on and feed.

Since different tick species carry many diseases other than Lyme, ultimately we're all hoping for a tick-bite prevention vaccine, Wormser said.

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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
BARBOURSVILLE, W.Va. (AP)  A West Virginia man accused of secretly recording a foreign exchange student has been charged with possessing child porn, police said Tuesday.

State troopers received a complaint in April from the 17-year-old student, who reported finding a hidden camera in the bathroom of her host home. A search warrant led to the discovery of another camera in the student's bedroom, officials said.

Darrel Wells, of Barboursville, was arrested Monday after a digital forensics investigation was concluded, police said. He was charged with possession of child pornography and criminal invasion of privacy.

Wells, 55, is lodged at the Western Regional Jail and Correctional Facility. Online records don't indicate whether he has an attorney who could comment.
NEW YORK (AP)  Rapper Fetty Wap was jailed Monday after, prosecutors say, he threatened to kill a man during a FaceTime call in 2021, violating the terms of his pretrial release in a pending federal drug conspiracy case.

Wap, whose real name is Willie Maxwell, told the man, Imma kill you and everybody you with, and flashed a gun during the Dec. 11 video call about two months after his arrest in the drug case, prosecutors said.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Steven Locke, acting on a request from prosecutors, revoked Maxwells bond and sent him to jail following a hearing Monday in federal court on Long Island.

Messages seeking comment were left with Maxwells lawyers. The Trap Queen rapper is scheduled to perform in Mobile, Alabama, on Aug. 19 and Austin, Texas, on Aug. 27, according to his website.

Maxwell was initially arrested last October on charges alleging he participated in a conspiracy to smuggle large amounts of heroin, fentanyl and other drugs into the New York City area.

Maxwell, who pleaded not guilty, was released after posting a $500,000 bond, secured by property he owns in Georgia, and agreeing to certain conditions, including that he not violate any federal, state or local laws while on release and that he not possess a gun or other weapon.

Prosecutors say evidence, including a recording of the FaceTime call, showed probable cause that Maxwell knowingly violated the conditions of his release.

During the call, Maxwell repeatedly threatened, Im gonna kill you and was seen holding a gun and pointing it at the screen, according to an FBI affidavit filed on the court docket. After the man on the other end of the call called Maxwell a rat, Maxwell responded by saying, Your man is a rat, according to the affidavit.

Prosecutors did not identify the person Maxwell is accused of threatening, referring to the man in court papers only as John Doe.

In the underlying drug case, Maxwell and five co-defendants are accused of conspiring to possess and distribute more than 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of heroin, fentanyl and crack cocaine between June 2019 and June 2020.

The scheme allegedly involved using the U.S. Postal Service and cars with hidden compartments to move drugs from the West Coast to Long Island, where they were stored for distribution to dealers on Long Island and in New Jersey, prosecutors said.

Maxwell rose to prominence after Trap Queen, his debut single, reached No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in May 2015.

He has had other brushes with the law, including a 2019 arrest in Las Vegas for allegedly assaulting three employees at a hotel-casino. He was previously arrested in November 2017 and charged with DUI after police said he was drag racing on a New York City highway.
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PINGTUNG, Taiwan (AP)  Taiwan warned Tuesday that Chinese military drills aren't just a rehearsal for an invasion of the self-governing island but also reflect ambitions to control large swaths of the western Pacific, as Taipei conducted its own exercises to underscore it's ready to defend itself.

Angered by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's recent visit to Taiwan, China has sent military ships and planes across the midline that separates the two sides in the Taiwan Strait and launched missiles into waters surrounding the island. The drills, which began Thursday, have disrupted flights and shipping in one of the busiest zones for global trade.

Ignoring calls to calm tensions, Beijing instead extended the exercises without announcing when they will end.

Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said that beyond aiming to annex the island democracy, which split with the mainland amid civil war in 1949, China wants to establish its dominance in the western Pacific. That would include controlling of the East and South China Seas via the Taiwan Strait and imposing a blockade to prevent the U.S. and its allies from aiding Taiwan in the event of an attack, he told a news conference in Taipei.

The exercises show Chinas geostrategic ambition beyond Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own territory, Wu said.

China has no right to interfere in or alter Taiwan's democracy or its interactions with other nations, he added.

Wus assessment of Chinas maneuvers was grimmer than that of other observers but echoed widespread concerns that Beijing is seeking to expand its influence in the Pacific, where the U.S. has military bases and extensive treaty partnerships.

China has said its drills were prompted by Pelosi's visit, but Wu said Beijing was using her trip as a pretext for intimidating moves long in the works. China also banned some Taiwanese food imports after the visit and cut off dialogue with the U.S. on a range of issues from military contacts to combating transnational crime and climate change.

Pelosi also dismissed Chinas outrage as a public stunt, noting on NBCs Today show that nobody said a word about a Senate delegation a few visit months ago. Later on the MSNBC news network, she said Chinese President Xi Jinping was acting like a scared bully.

I dont think the president of China should control the schedules of members of Congress, she said.

Through its maneuvers, China has pushed closer to Taiwans borders and may be seeking to establish a new normal in which it could eventually control access to the islands ports and airspace. But that would likely elicit a strong response from the military on the island, whose people strongly favor the status quo of de-facto independence.

The U.S., Taipeis main backer, has also shown itself to be willing to face down Beijings threats. Washington has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan in deference to Beijing, but is legally bound to ensure the island can defend itself and to treat all threats against it as matters of grave concern.

That leaves open the question of whether Washington would dispatch forces if China attacked Taiwan. U.S. President Joe Biden has said repeatedly the U.S. is bound to do so  but staff members have quickly walked back those comments.

Beyond the geopolitical risks, an extended crisis in the Taiwan Strait, a significant thoroughfare for global trade, could have major implications for international supply chains at a time when the world is already facing disruptions and uncertainty in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine. In particular, Taiwan is a crucial provider of computer chips for the global economy, including Chinas high-tech sectors.

In response to the drills, Taiwan has put its forces on alert, but has so far refrained from taking active counter measures.

On Tuesday, its military held live-fire artillery drills in Pingtung County on its southeastern coast.

The army will continue to train and accumulate strength to deal with the threat from China, said Maj, Gen. Lou Woei-jye, spokesperson for Taiwan's 8th Army Command. No matter what the situation is ... this is the best way to defend our country.

Taiwan, once a Japanese colony, had only loose connections to imperial China and then split with the mainland in 1949. Despite never having governed the island, China's ruling Communist Party regards it as its own territory and has sought to isolate it diplomatically and economically in addition to ratcheting up military threats.

Washington has insisted Pelosi's visit did not change its one China policy, which holds that the United States has no position on the status of the two sides but wants their dispute settled peacefully.

___

Associated Press writer Ashraf Khalil in Washington contributed to this report.
TRUMBULL  Trumbull Printing has sold its Spring Hill Road facility, but will maintain its presence at the site.

The company was represented by Norwalk-based commercial real estate company Avison Young in the sale of the 57,234-square-foot building at 205 Spring Hill Road for $4.4 million.

The industrial manufacturing building was sold to investment manager Glen Park Capital Partners  but it will be leased back to Trumbull Printing.

Trumbull Printing will remain in place, as they have negotiated a three-year lease and have the option to renew, said Judd McArthur, senior vice president and principal with Avison Young.

Glen Park is an affiliate of Shelbourne Global Solutions, a New York-based company that owns more than 8,000,000 square feet of commercial real estate. In a news release, Gary Tress, a managing member of Glen Park, said the acquisition is the first in a series of proposed purchases of industrial and commercial properties in Connecticut.

We have been following this market very closely and believe that it is a sector that will continue to be aggressively pursued by investors, Tress said.

McArthur said one of the perks of the 7-acre site is the ability to build an additional 30,000 square feet on the property. He said there are not currently plans to expand, but this flexibility was attractive to our client as could help them meet their future goals for the property.

He said Trumbulls access to major thoroughfares, including Route 25, makes it an attractive location.

Right now there is an unprecedented demand from investors and businesses in the region for industrial/flexible assets, McArthur said. Shelbourne recognized this opportunity for the market and they have a long-term lens when it comes to seeing their future, as theyve been investing in Connecticut for over 15 years.

Trumbull economic and community development director Rina Bakalar echoed those thoughts.

There is definitely a strong and increasing demand for these types of properties, especially as much of what was available has been gobbled up, she said.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Tim Michels, a wealthy businessman endorsed by former President Donald Trump, won the Republican primary for Wisconsin governor on Tuesday and will face Democratic Gov. Tony Evers in a contest that could reshape elections in the marquee battleground.

Michels defeated former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who was endorsed by former Vice President Mike Pence and had backing from establishment Republicans, including ex-Gov. Scott Walker.

In his victory speech, Michels promised to focus on jobs and the economy and said he would stand up for people who "have been left behind by the Democratic Party that just wants to focus on the social issues.

As governor, my number one priority is to take care of the hardworking people of Wisconsin, Michels said.

Evers' campaign called Michels the most extreme and divisive nominee possible, one that will tell Donald Trump anything just to keep his endorsement."

Both Michels and Kleefisch falsely claimed the 2020 presidential election was rigged, a lie Trump has pushed in an effort to overturn his loss to Joe Biden. Federal and state election officials and Trumps own attorney general have said there is no credible evidence the election was tainted. The former presidents allegations of fraud were also roundly rejected by courts, including by judges Trump appointed.

Michels said decertifying the results of the 2020 contest was not a priority but said everything will be on the table. He supports other changes to voting and elections, including dismantling the bipartisan commission that runs Wisconsin elections.

The governors race was the latest proxy war between Trump and Pence, one-time partners who have backed opposing candidates in other swing states as they try to push the GOP in different directions. The results Tuesday added to Trump's record of wins, following victories for his preferred candidates last week in closely watched races for governor and Senate in Arizona.

Meanwhile, Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler, who supported Trump's second impeachment, conceded defeat in her Washington state congressional district after being overtaken in late vote tallies by a GOP challenger endorsed by the former president. And in next Tuesday's slate of contests, Rep. Liz Cheney, who also backed Trump's impeachment and is the vice chair of the House panel probing his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, faces a challenging primary race.

Those developments, combined with the rush of support from Republicans after the FBI executed a search warrant at Trump's Florida estate on Monday, were fresh reminders of the former president's enduring grip on the GOP.

Back in Wisconsin, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes won the Democratic nomination to face Republican Sen. Ron Johnson, one of Trumps most vocal supporters. The matchup is among the last to be set before the November general election, when control of the currently 50-50 split Senate is up for grabs, and Democrats see Wisconsin as one of their best opportunities to flip a seat.

Wisconsins most powerful Republican, state Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, held off a Trump-backed challenger. Trump endorsed Adam Steen after Vos rejected the former presidents pressure to decertify the 2020 results. Vos said his victory showed you dont have to be a lapdog to whatever Donald Trump says.

Tuesdays outcomes have far-reaching consequences beyond Wisconsin, a state that is almost evenly split between Republicans and Democrats and where 2022 will be seen as a bellwether for the 2024 presidential race. The person elected governor this fall will be in office for the presidential election and will be able to sign or veto changes to election laws passed by the Republican-controlled Legislature. The next governor and U.S. senator also may sway decisions on issues from abortion to education and taxes.

Were a 50-50 state and so every race in Wisconsin, just by definition, is going to be decided by a few percentage points one way or another, said former Gov. Jim Doyle, a Democrat. And those few percentage points in Wisconsin may well determine what the course of the nation is in the coming years.

Elsewhere Tuesday, a Trump-backed candidate won the GOP primary for Senate in Connecticut, a state thats long been home to the Republican establishment. Republican National Committee member Leora Levy, whom Trump endorsed last week, will face two-term Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal after she defeated former state House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, who had support from the state party.

Voters in Vermont  the only state to never have a woman in its congressional delegation  chose a woman, Becca Balint, as the Democratic nominee for the states lone House seat. She is favored in the race to replace Rep. Peter Welch, who won the Democratic nomination for the Senate seat long held by Patrick Leahy, who is retiring. And Minnesota Republicans chose Dr. Scott Jensen, a COVID-19 vaccine skeptic endorsed by the state GOP, to face Gov. Tim Walz.

But the most-watched races were in Wisconsin, where Trump has kept up his pressure campaign to cancel Bidens 2020 victory. Biden won the state by nearly 21,000 votes, four years after Trump narrowly won the state by roughly the same margin. The 2020 outcome has been upheld in two partial recounts, a nonpartisan audit, a review by a conservative law firm and multiple lawsuits.

Evers has made voting and elections a focus of his own campaign, telling voters hes the only candidate who will defend democracy and we are that close to not having our vote count in the state of Wisconsin.

Both Michels and Kleefisch said overturning the 2020 election results was not a priority. But they said they would dismantle the bipartisan commission that runs Wisconsin elections and would support prohibitions on voters having someone else turn in their absentee ballots, as well as ballot drop boxes located anywhere other than staffed clerk offices.

Michels is co-owner of Wisconsins largest construction company and has touted his work to build his familys business. He lost the 2004 Senate race to Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold, and has been a major donor to GOP politicians.

At a rally on Friday, Trump praised Michels as an incredible success story. He criticized Kleefisch as part of the failed establishment and also took aim at Vos. He told supporters that Michels was the better choice to defeat Evers.

Michels pledged that we are going to have election integrity here in Wisconsin. He also said he will bring law and order back to Wisconsin, criticized Evers handling of schools and blamed Biden for rising prices.

GOP state Rep. Tim Ramthun also made a long-shot bid for governor.

In her concession speech, Kleefisch said, The fight now is truly against Tony Evers and the liberals who want to take away our way of life.

Barnes, in his victory speech in Milwaukee, emphasized his middle-class background and upbringing while casting Johnson as self-serving and an out-of-touch politician who cares only about special interests and wealthy donors.

It is time for a change, everybody, said Barnes, who would be Wisconsins first Black senator if elected. Its time for us to be represented by somebody who shares our experiences.

Johnson called Barnes the most radical left candidate Democrats could have chosen.

This is a contest between radical left socialism versus freedom and prosperity, he said.

___

Burnett reported from Chicago. Reporter Gretchen Ehlke contributed from Thiensville, Wis.
London is seriously hot this summer  both literally and figuratively. The heatwave that scorched its way across Europe in July brought record highs to the British capital, but the blistering temps didnt stifle the upbeat vibe even a smidge. Indeed, the city is still buzzing from Junes extraordinary Platinum Jubilee celebrations honoring the 70-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest of any British monarch, while eager tourists continue to flock into town to soak up landmarks and experiences theyve missed during the pandemic.

In fact, according to flight booking platform Hopper, London remains the most searched international destination by Americans, a trend that has held consistently both this past summer and into travel for the fall shoulder season, a company spokesperson confirmed. Theres still time (and plenty of reasons) to squeeze in a visit this summer: Not only are festivals and rooftop patios still in full swing, but many iconic spots are also still offering fun Jubilee-themed exhibitions, menus, and other experiences.

If thats not incentive enough, you can still score a good deal on airfare: The last two weekends of August are the cheapest in terms of flights throughout the summer, according to Hopper, with Americans paying round-trip international airfare of $781 and $779, respectively. (Prices drop to $680 in September.)

Heres whats on, as the Brits say, for the end of summer (and into fall) in London.

See Superbloom at the Tower of London

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Visitors who havent been to the Tower of London in a while will notice a remarkable change in the 13th-century fortresss exterior: a riot of colorful wildflowers that have sprouted from the 20 million seeds sown into the moat.

Officially opened on June 1, Superbloom  the first stage of a long-term project to transform the exterior of the Tower into an interactive, biodiverse landscape  is showing off in spectacular fashion in late summer, with poppies, daisies, and African violets among the cornucopia of color against the backdrop of the Tower. Its the most comprehensive change to the Towers moat since 1845, when the Duke of Wellington ordered it to be drained and turned into a defensive dry ditch.

The project also spans several art installations and sculptures around the moat. Walkways, benches, and speakers featuring an ambient score (Music for Growing Flowers by contemporary composer Erland Cooper) that encourages visitors to linger. Theres even a recycled slide near the entrance. The idea was that visitors can literally slide into the display, says project lead Nigel Dunnett, a University of Sheffield professor of planting design and urban horticulture. Tickets to Superbloom can be purchased on their own or as part of the entry to the Tower.

See How the Royals Live

Even if youre not a diehard royals watcher, the fascinating Life Through a Royal Lens exhibition at Kensington Palace is well worth the stop. On display through Oct. 30, the exhibition examines the royal familys relationship with photography over the decades, and how the medium has shaped public opinion. Featured work includes photographs by renowned names including Rankin, Cecil Beaton, Annie Leibovitz, and Norman Parkinson; a never-before-seen image of Diana, Princess of Wales by David Bailey, also is on display, as is, for the first time ever, a selection of images taken by Royal Family members themselves.

Visitors to the Platinum Jubilee: The Queens Accession exhibit at Buckingham Palace should prepare to swoon, advises The Sunday Times. This remarkable exhibition features a series of portraits that formed the basis of The Queens image on stamps and in British embassies across the globe until 1971, as well as sparkling stunners Her Royal Majesty has worn for special occasions over the decades, such as the diamond tiara she was gifted for her marriage to Prince Philip on Nov. 20, 1947. In addition to the exhibit, which runs through Oct. 2, visitors at Buckingham Palace can get a close-up look at the Queens royal residence in London with a tour (the Palace is open to the public for 10 weeks every summer, from July 22-Oct. 2).

Farther afield, Windsor Castle also is hosting another noteworthy Queen-centric exhibition, this one showcasing her Coronation at Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953. Notable items include her robe, a head-turning garment that required the skills of 12 seamstresses who worked more than 3,500 hours and used 18 different types of gold thread.

Sip Afternoon Tea in High Style

No one does afternoon tea like the Brits, and theres no better place  or time  to indulge in this classy tradition than in London during Afternoon Tea Week, which runs from August 8-14 across the United Kingdom. Tea houses, restaurants, and hotels offering the service are seemingly infinite; you could partake in afternoon tea every day of your trip and not even make a dent in the total number across London.

A few mainstay spots that set the bar for a top-notch experience: Fortnum & Masons Tea Salon, a fourth-floor oasis in the iconic shop thats been serving afternoon teas for nearly a century; The Savoy, where guests can soak up views of the Thames from under a glass-domed atrium and choose from more than 30 teas on the menu; and The Dorchester, serving up a truly delightful affair complete with Champagne, scones, finger sandwiches, and delicate cakes at the 5-star hotel in the tony Mayfair neighborhood. And you may still be lucky enough to indulge in various Platinum Jubilee offerings: Several places, including The Dorchester, still have their celebratory Jubilee afternoon tea menus still available.

Toast on a Rooftop Bar

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Nothing says summer in London like enjoying a tipple or two on a rooftop bar or patio, soaking up warm temps and skyline views.

In the East London neighborhood of Shoreditch, the Rooftop at One Hundred Shoreditch, the hip new hotel that opened in early 2022, has quickly become a go-to spot for scenesters, the post-work crowd, and in-the-know tourists, with its California-cool ambiance (pink marble, terrazzo, succulents) and Latin-leaning menu and drinks list, and the best views in East London. Farther south, in the bustling South Bank neighborhood, 12th Knot at the Sea Containers Hotel continues the propertys upscale nautical vibe, with knockout panoramas of the city skyline along the Thames River. Aviary, meanwhile, draws a post-work crowd thats as stylish as the 10th-floor digs, with a rich, luxe color theme and gobsmacking city views.

Take in a Show or Party at a Festival

No trip to London is complete without a show, and Londons Theater District in the West End is once again buzzing. History buffs should head right for Six The Musical, a whip-smart, darkly comic production told from the perspective of Henry VIIIs six wives, while pop culture aficionados will delight in the throwback fun of Back to the Future, which earned the coveted Olivier Award for the Best New Musical in 2022, at the Adelphi Theatre. Families, meanwhile, will love 101 Dalmations, an eclectic, kid-friendly adaptation of the Disney classic, at Regents Park Open Air Theatre.

If open-air shindigs are more your speed, the London festival scene is back with a bang this summer. One of its premier offerings, All Points East Festival, is sure to be a crowd pleaser, with a lineup featuring rock, indie, and alternative acts including Gorillaz, The Chemical Brothers, Disclosure, The National, Tame Impala, Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds, and Kraftwerk. Performances run over two weekends from August 19 through August 27.

Walk in Shakespeares Footsteps

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Marking the 25th anniversary of Shakespeares Globe (the modern one, of course, which reopened last spring after the pandemic), the free Shakespeare Art Trail along Londons Bankside showcases 25 famous quotes from the writers most well-known plays. Many of the quotes, featured in murals, billboards, and other formats, are located where they were first written by the world-renowned bard. The neighborhood, after all, was one of his favorite haunts around town.

And Shakespeare fans who want to experience one of his works in the theater shouldnt miss The Tempest, which, according to Time Out, is a super-fun production of the writers final play.
MOSCOW  Russia on Monday announced a freeze on U.S. inspections of its nuclear arsenals under a pivotal arms control treaty, claiming that Western sanctions have hampered similar tours of U.S. facilities by Russian monitors.

The move reflects soaring tensions between Moscow and Washington over Russias military action in Ukraine and marks the first time the Kremlin halted U.S. inspections under the New START nuclear arms control treaty.

In declaring the freeze on U.S. inspections, the Russian Foreign Ministry said the sanctions on Russian flights imposed by the U.S. and its allies, visa restrictions and other obstacles effectively have made it impossible for Russian military experts to visit U.S. nuclear weapons sites, giving the U.S. unilateral advantages.

The Biden administration had no immediate public response to the move. Ankit Panda, an expert on nuclear policy at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, called Russia's action a cynical attempt to pressure the United States over penalties the West has imposed on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

They basically are using New START inspections  something the U.S. cares about  to force Washington's hands, Panda said.

Russia claimed that U.S. inspectors have not faced such difficulties, even though Moscow has closed its skies to the European Unions 27 nations, the U.K. and Canada  though not the U.S.  after the start of the conflict in Ukraine in late February. Russia said at the time that exceptions would be made for diplomatic missions and deliveries of humanitarian aid.

The Russian Foreign Ministry claimed that the freeze is temporary and allowed by the pact in exceptional cases.

It noted that Russia highly values the New START, adding that inspections could resume after the problems hampering them are solved.

Russia is fully committed to abiding by all of the provisions of New START, which we see as a crucial tool for maintaining international security and stability, the ministry said, urging a thorough study of all existing problems in this area, the successful settlement of which would allow a return to full-scale application as soon as possible of all verification mechanisms of the Treaty.

After the problems regarding the resumption of inspection activities under the Treaty are resolved, we will immediately lift the exemptions from inspection activities that we have announced, the ministry said.

The New START treaty, signed in 2010 by President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, limits each country to no more than 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 deployed missiles and bombers, and envisages sweeping on-site inspections to verify compliance.

Just days before the New START was due to expire in February 2021, Russia and the United States agreed to extend it for another five years.

Panda, the security analyst, noted that Russia's action also comes during a review conference for the half-century-old Nonproliferation Treaty in New York, where the United States and Russia are discussing continued strategic arms reductions.

At a time when nuclear risks between the two sides are far from waning, its essential that the inspection protocols in the Treaty are fully restored, he said. The pandemic had its toll on New START inspection activity and Moscows unfortunate decision stands to further jeopardize things.

Joanna Kozlowska in London and Ellen Knickmeyer in Washington contributed to this report.
Tests conducted in December by the Hawaii Department of Health found no traces of PFAS, potentially cancer-causing compounds widely known as 'forever chemicals' because they don't break down over time, in the well contaminated by petroleum in a massive spill the month before.

A Navy official said Monday that the health department tested the water for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, after investigators found that the fuel that tainted the drinking water at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam last year had been pooled for months in a fire suppression system line meant to hold firefighting foam containing the chemicals.

But the fire suppression system had never been activated, nor had foam ever been discharged into the system and no PFAS chemicals were detected, a Navy spokesperson told Military.com in an email.

Read Next: President Signs Historic Toxic Exposure Bill Extending Benefits to Millions of Veterans

"A full system activation, e.g., in the event of a fire, would spray [aqueous form filming foam, or AFFF] into the tunnel. This would be a significant event and it has never occurred since the system has been in place," the spokesperson said.

The question of PFAS contamination of the water has been a concern since the Navy released the results of its investigation into spills that occurred last year at the service's Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility, the U.S. military's largest fuel depot in the Pacific, capable of holding up to 250 million gallons of jet fuel, diesel and gasoline.

PFAS are a collection of nearly 9,000 compounds that have numerous industrial uses but can accumulate in the body and do not break down into soluble components. The Environmental Protection Agency has determined that they are unsafe at any level, and they are associated with infertility, some types of cancer and birth defects.

The investigation revealed that a spill during transfer operations in May sent roughly 19,000 gallons of fuel into the facility's collection sumps, which were to hold runoff following the activation of its fire system.

When those sumps were accidentally filled with fuel, pumps transferred the liquid into PVC pipes that were designed to retain foam and water runoff. But, the official noted "no AFFF was released on May 6, and therefore no AFFF was pumped from the sump to the reclamation line."

"The fuel was spilled from an AFFF recovery line, but the AFFF system has never been activated, and therefore the recovery system has never been exposed to PFAS/perfluorooctanoic acid/perfluorooctane sulfonic acid from AFFF," the spokesman said.

When asked during a congressional hearing July 19 about the possibility of PFAS contamination in the runoff, Vice Adm. Randy Crites, deputy chief of naval operations for capabilities and resources, told Rep. Kaiali'i Kahele, D-Hawaii, that he didn't know the answer.

In November, the thousands of gallons of fuel from the May spill that were contained in the line were released into the tunnels at the facility after an employee struck one of the pipes with his vehicle.

The contamination sickened military and civilian families living in base housing on or near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, sending dozens to hospitals and forcing thousands from their homes for up to three months.

The lack of transparency regarding the May spill and the slow response by the Navy to residents' complaints in November that their water smelled like petroleum and they were experiencing unexplained symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, burns and rashes, have left families deeply disaffected. Initially after the November spill, the Navy said tests found the water didn't contain fuel, despite resident concerns.

Some have moved out of their homes or left the islands altogether, while more than 100 have filed claims against the Navy under the Federal Tort Claims Act seeking compensation for their health problems.

Their attorneys say the families are at risk for long-term conditions such as leukemia, immune disorders, kidney disease, heart conditions, gastrointestinal problems and neurological effects.

"There is enormous fear ... They are watching what happened at Camp Lejeune and saying, 'Is my kid going to die of leukemia; am I going to die of leukemia? How long am I going to be healthy for? Should I start planning for my long-term health now? Those are very real fears," said Kristina Baehr, an attorney with Just Well Law in Austin, Texas, during an interview July 29 on Military.com's Fire Watch podcast.

A new research tool unveiled last week by the University of Hawaii has caused further concern among family members who believe that contaminants remain in their drinking water supply.

By using a process called fluorescence spectroscopy, researchers can detect levels of hydrocarbons as low as 10 parts per billion -- much lower than the Hawaii Department of Health's maximum allowable threshold of 211 parts per billion.

As recently as May, this screening detected contamination at the Hickam, Ford Island, and Red Hill Mauka neighborhoods, likely residual contaminants from the November fuel release, according to the researchers.

The researchers cautioned that the screening method, used usually to monitor oil spills, is a preliminary test, and further testing is recommended after any positive findings. They also noted that the method is not certified by the EPA for detecting specific contaminants nor for assessing risk to human health.

But families were swift to react. After Navy Capt. Mark Sohaney posted a letter on the base's Facebook page Friday reiterating that the water was safe to drink, residents took to the site to express outrage.

Amanda Feindt, whose entire family was sickened by the water in November and her children hospitalized, posted a video of her daughter having a meltdown about drinking any water. The Feindts have left Hawaii but still have health problems, she said.

"Our sweet girl is still traumatized by WATER ... she still believes that WATER will make her 'throw up' and put her back in the hospital ... Unfortunately, this is her reality as she still suffers with many unexplained health issues," Feindt wrote.

Attorneys representing Red Hill families also implored the Navy to move affected personnel out of military housing.

"Data released by the University of Hawaii Red Hill Task Force this week confirms what our clients already knew to be true: their water is still contaminated," wrote Baehr and her colleagues at Just Well Law to Navy officials on Thursday. "It's time to evacuate families affected by the horrific jet fuel spills at the Navy's Red Hill Bulk Storage Facility in Hawaii."

Sohaney said the base continues to use only water supplied by a well that was unaffected by the spill.

"JBPHH continuously tests the water you use and provides those water test results to the Hawaii Department of Health and the Environmental Protection Agency who continue to confirm that the JBPHH water remains safe," Solaney wrote in the letter posted online.

-- Patricia Kime can be reached at Patricia.Kime@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @patriciakime.

Related: Military Families File Lawsuit over Water Contamination in Hawaii
This story was originally published by ProPublica.

This story includes descriptions of sexual assault and physical violence.

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This article is co-published with The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan local newsroom that informs and engages with Texans. Sign up for The Brief weekly to get up to speed on their essential coverage of Texas issues.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can receive confidential help by calling the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Networks 24/7 toll-free support line at 800-656-4673 or visiting its website. You can be connected to a hotline staff member in your area or to the Department of Defenses Safe Helpline.

Christian Alvarado began to type as he sat alone in an interrogation room at Fort Bliss, a sprawling Army post in El Paso, Texas. Hed spent most of the previous seven hours hooked up to a polygraph, answering a military investigators questions about an allegation that hed sexually assaulted a fellow soldier.

His story had changed several times during the interview in late July 2020. The investigator told Alvarado hed already failed two polygraph tests, then left the room so that the young soldier could type up his account in a sworn statement. With his fingers on the keyboard, Alvarado began describing the night in December 2019 that he spent in the barracks with a female soldier hed met that day.

She was drunk and so was I, Alvarado, an Army private first class, typed on the investigators computer. We had sex, but she passed out.

He wrote that hed lied about the encounter being consensual in previous interviews with investigators because he wanted to protect his Army career.

When Alvarado was done with his written admission, the military investigator walked back in the room. He asked Alvarado why he continued to have sex with the woman after she passed out. I was in the moment, the 20-year-old soldier replied.

The investigator then asked Alvarado about another allegation against him. An Army chaplains assistant had accused him of sexually assaulting her in May 2020 after a house party. Sex with her was wrong due to how intoxicated she was, Alvarado said, but he would not agree to a sworn statement about the second allegation because it would just be icing on the cake.

Alvarado told the investigator that hed had sex with 42 women in the past four years, about a quarter of whom were intoxicated at the time. His sexual experiences had become boring and they blurred together, he said, to the point that he struggled to remember specific details about his partners.

At the end of the daylong interrogation, Alvarados commanders didnt place him in detention or under any restrictions beyond the orders he had already received to stay at least 100 feet away from the two women who had accused him of assault, according to records. He was free to leave.

A month later, he sexually assaulted another woman.

Had Alvarados case been handled by civilians and not the military, his written admission could have been enough evidence to quickly issue an arrest warrant, according to two lawyers who previously worked for the El Paso County district attorneys office.

I would have felt comfortable charging at that point, said Penny Hamilton, who led the Rape and Child Abuse Unit at the district attorneys office and later served as an El Paso County magistrate judge. When you have the offender admitting the sexual act took place and you have the offender admitting that the alleged victim couldnt have consented because she was passed out, then you have the elements of a criminal charge.

In Texas civilian system, a person charged with sexual assault goes before a magistrate judge, whod set a bail amount that experts said could easily be in the tens of thousands of dollars. Civilian magistrates and judges use bail to ensure suspects show up at trial. Suspects are released only if they can pay the bond.

The military justice system has no bail. Many decisions about who should be detained for serious crimes before trial are made not by judges but by commanders, who are not required to be trained lawyers.

Recent congressional reforms changed the system, which has long drawn criticism for the extensive discretion commanders wield. While the revisions stripped some of their authority, commanders continue to control various aspects of the judicial process, including deciding whether service members accused of crimes should be detained while awaiting trial, a process called pretrial confinement.

A ProPublica and Texas Tribune investigation into how commanders in the Army, the nations largest military branch, use pretrial confinement revealed a system that treats soldiers unevenly and draws little outside scrutiny. Over the coming months, ProPublica and the Tribune will explore how military justice operates, often in vastly different ways than the civilian system.

The news organizations obtained data from the Army on nearly 8,400 courts-martial over the past decade under the Freedom of Information Act. The resulting analysis, the first-of-its-kind, showed that soldiers accused of sexual assault are less than half as likely to be placed in pretrial confinement than those accused of offenses like drug use and distribution, disobeying an officer or burglary.

The analysis showed that, on average, soldiers had to face at least eight counts of sexual offenses before they were placed in pretrial confinement as often as soldiers charged with drug or burglary crimes.

That disparity has grown in the past five years. The rate of pretrial confinement more than doubled in cases involving drug offenses, larceny and disobeying a superior commissioned officer, but it remained roughly the same for sexual assault cases like Alvarados, the analysis found.

For instance, the Army opted against pretrial confinement for a staff sergeant who was accused of raping the wife of a soldier in his command at Fort Bliss, while at another post a 19-year-old Texas woman was placed in detention for more than three months for using drugs and mouthing off to commanders.

Justice thats arbitrary is not justice, Col. Don Christensen, a former chief prosecutor for the Air Force, said. It shouldnt come down to the whims of a particular commander.

Army officials defended the system. They said that soldiers accused of violent offenses arent necessarily more likely to get pretrial confinement. The nature of the offense is one factor to consider in a decision to put someone in pretrial confinement, but it is not the sole factor, said Lt. Col. Brian K. Carr, chief of the operations branch at the Office of the Judge Advocate Generals Criminal Law Division, in an email. Characteristics of individual soldiers and their willingness to follow orders are also important factors, Carr said.

He said that, under military regulations, commanders must first decide whether theres good reason to believe that a soldier committed a crime and is either likely to flee before trial or engage in serious criminal misconduct. Commanders have to consider if other restrictions, such as directing soldiers to remain in military housing or requiring regular check-ins with superiors, are sufficient to keep them out of trouble. They should also weigh a soldiers military service record, character, mental condition and any previous misconduct.

In March 2020, months before Alvarado was interviewed about the sexual assault allegations, commanders reprimanded him after El Paso police arrested him for firing an AR-15 outside of his girlfriends apartment. Alvarado told police at the time that he was attempting to scare off a pack of coyotes. An El Paso County warrant in the case remains outstanding.

Despite the reprimand and the initial sexual assault allegations, former Fort Bliss spokesperson Lt. Col. Allie Scott said that the conditions to justify placing Alvarado in pretrial confinement were not met. Scott, who recently transferred to another post, declined to clarify. She said Fort Bliss would not comment on internal deliberations.

Nearly a month after Alvarado walked out of the interrogation room at Fort Bliss, an Army captain determined there was probable cause that he committed sexual assault, according to records obtained by ProPublica and the Tribune. In a letter to the news organizations, Alvarado would later say he was innocent but declined to answer specific questions.

The Armys decision, and the failure to quickly act on it, came too late for Lee, a civilian and the third woman whom he would later be charged with sexually assaulting.

Lee, who agreed to go by her middle name for this story, still relives the moment in late August when Alvarado assaulted her in her living room. He pinned her down on her couch and wrapped his hand around her throat while her two children slept across the house.

She recalls calling a friend and crying weeks later when she learned from military investigators that Alvarado had previously been accused of sexual assault.

If something had been done sooner, he would have never gotten the chance to hurt me, Lee said.

A Justice System Led by Military Commanders

The U.S. military justice system dates back to the American Revolution. Yet the way in which the system works and how it diverges from the civilian legal process is unknown to many Americans. (About 8% of adults in the U.S. currently serve or have served in the active-duty and reserve military forces.)

The system was created to help commanders keep their fighting forces in line. So, at the start, courts handled only military-specific offenses like desertion or dereliction of duty.

George Washington needed a means to discipline his troops, said Rachel E. VanLandingham, a professor at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles and a former Air Force judge advocate, which is a military attorney. It was very much a commanders tool.

Bail was never part of the military system because service members were often stationed in fortresses or remote, frontier garrisons, where commanders controlled their movements, said Joshua Kastenberg, a professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law and former Air Force judge advocate.

Civilian crimes were not tried at court-martial until the American Civil War, and then only as a way to prosecute Union soldiers who were accused of crimes in Confederate states, Kastenberg said.

For decades after, the military could tackle civilian offenses only during times of war.

Then the first and second world wars exposed a greater number of enlisted men and women to a justice system that was dramatically different from the civilian one. For example, the people representing them at trial were not required to be trained lawyers.

In an effort to bring the military more in line with civilian court practices, Congress developed the Uniform Code of Military Justice in 1950. This was a major turning point, giving the military  and, in turn, commanders  jurisdiction over civilian offenses like murder and sexual assault, not just during wars but in times of peace, Kastenberg said.

In the years since, the military pushed back against limiting commanders control. Some military legal experts interviewed by ProPublica and the Tribune maintain pretrial confinement is superior to the civilian bail system because a suspects freedom has nothing to do with their ability to pay. Criminal justice experts who oppose bail argue that it criminalizes poverty and penalizes people of color.

Critics of the military justice system say giving commanders authority over who gets detained reinforces an ongoing problem in the military. Commanders are an accused persons supervisor and have little experience or training to make consequential legal decisions.

Commanders have convinced themselves that they have some special insight shared by no others that makes them solely qualified to make prosecution decisions and control the justice system, said Christensen, now president of the nonprofit Protect Our Defenders, an organization that promotes military justice reform.

Slain Army Spc. Vanessa Guillen's mother Gloria Guillen, right, joined by Vanessa's sister Lupe Guillen, center, and family attorney Natalie Khawam, speaks as she cries during a news conference on the National Mall in front of Capitol Hill, Thursday, July 30, 2020, in Washington. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The most recent congressional push to shield the courts-martial process from commanders influence followed the 2020 murder of Vanessa Guillen, an Army specialist who was sexually harassed by a supervisor and then allegedly killed by another soldier at Fort Hood, Texas.

Guillens death helped build momentum for a long-standing effort by some lawmakers to dramatically reduce commanders role in the military justice system. A bill introduced by U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, a New York Democrat, proposed stripping commanders of the power to decide whether to prosecute serious offenses and giving that authority to military lawyers.

The military brass pushed back. To remove commanders from prosecution decisions, process, and accountability may have an adverse effect on readiness, mission accomplishment, good order and discipline, unit cohesion, trust, and loyalty between commanders and those they lead, Gen. Mark A. Milley, the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, wrote in a May 2021 letter to Oklahoma Sen. James Inhofe, the top Republican on the Armed Services Committee.

In the end, Congress approved a compromise last year that created a new office of military attorneys with the power to prosecute cases related to some serious crimes such as sexual assault, domestic violence, murder and kidnapping.

Commanders retained prosecutorial control over other offenses, like robbery, assault and distribution of controlled substances.

Under the new law, commanders also held on to authority over other parts of the judicial process, including pretrial confinement. They can consult military attorneys with legal questions, but they are not required to follow that advice. And while a magistrate judge reviews cases in which a person is placed in pretrial confinement, there is no such review when commanders opt against detaining soldiers accused of crimes.

A Dangerous Person

To understand the way that commanders discretion works in practice, consider the case of Randall S. Hughes, a Fort Bliss Army staff sergeant who was accused of raping the wife of one of his soldiers at a Super Bowl party in 2017.

The woman told ProPublica and the Tribune she repeatedly asked that the Army place Hughes in pretrial confinement after it began an investigation. Hughes commanders did not. They eventually decided against pursuing the case, citing evidence and advice from military counsel.

Hughes later moved to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey where, in May 2020, his 16-year-old daughter told military investigators that he had sexually assaulted her two months earlier.

Again, he was not detained.

Hughes commanders in New Jersey instead directed him to live on post and required him to check in by phone three times a day.

During the investigation into his daughters accusation, military law enforcement discovered allegations that years earlier Hughes sexually assaulted one ex-wife and raped another. The latter incident occurred while he was already under investigation for the rape at Fort Bliss. They learned a third ex-wife accused him of strangling her in 2015.

Hughes was again not put into pretrial confinement.

Matt Leonard, an Army spokesperson, said in an email that Hughes commanders took appropriate action to ensure the staff sergeant showed up at trial and did not engage in further serious misconduct. They also issued protective orders for the victims.

In a March 2021 plea deal, Hughes admitted to a number of charges, including raping the woman at the Super Bowl party and one of his ex-wives. He also was convicted of squeezing another ex-wifes neck with his hands. A judge sentenced him to almost 14 years in prison and dishonorably discharged him. He did not plead guilty to sexually assaulting his daughter but admitted to using indecent language with her and pulling her by the hair.

Hughes attorney did not respond to an email requesting comment.

Chayla Madsen, Hughes first ex-wife and the mother of the daughter who accused him of sexual assault, said she agreed to the plea deal only because military attorneys said it would speed up the judicial process and be better for the victims.

Madsen used to believe the safest place her daughter could be was on a military base. Now she has no faith in a system that failed to take serious legal action against Hughes in 2017 when he was first accused of sexual assault.

They had every reason to believe he is a dangerous person, Madsen said.

Serial Offenses

Fort Bliss, where Hughes was first accused of sexual assault, uses pretrial confinement significantly less often than the vast majority of Army posts, applying it at a rate of roughly 6% for cases without sexual offenses and 5% for sexual assault cases, according to the news organizations analysis.

Just as they had done with Hughes, Fort Bliss commanders similarly decided at various junctures not to detain Alvarado.

They had another opportunity two weeks after he assaulted Lee.

Military investigators guided the 30-year-old mother, who had a brief relationship with Alvarado before the assault, to contact him and see if he would acknowledge what happened on the night of Aug. 26, 2020, when he asked to come over to her house to talk.

While sitting in a room with investigators, Lee texted Alvarado and asked him to explain why he didnt stop when she told him to.

He apologized.

After the admission, the Army ordered that Alvarado stay 100 feet away from Lee. He also had other restrictions, including a requirement that he check in with commanders seven times a day in person or by phone, text or video call.

Scott, the Fort Bliss spokesperson, said commanders determined Alvarados restrictions based on the information available to them at the time.

But six attorneys and military law experts expressed surprise that commanders still did not order him into pretrial confinement.

Hes under investigation for two sexual assaults, hes been told to leave these people alone and then we have credible evidence that hes committed another sexual assault, said Geoffrey S. Corn, a former Army officer and law professor. Thats enough to prove to me two things: No. 1, hes dangerous and, No. 2, he might be a flight risk because hes not getting the message he has to behave.

One night, almost a month after the text exchange, Lee called 911 when her 10-year-old son told her that Alvarado had tapped on his bedroom window and said hello, according to a police report and an interview with Lee. Military police arrived quickly but could not locate anyone. Had Alvarado been there, he would have been in violation of the protective order that required him to stay away from Lee.

Scott said neither Fort Bliss investigators nor Alvarados commanders knew of the claim because military police files did not mention his name. Records obtained by ProPublica and the Tribune show that Lee shared Alvarados name and the fact that she had a protective order against him with a 911 dispatcher.

In late October, two months after Lee was assaulted, the Army formally charged Alvarado with three counts of sexual assault, as well as with strangling Lee and lying to investigators. Still, he was not detained.

By the end of December, Alvarado was in trouble again.

He was arrested for driving drunk during a trip to Arizona, where his family lives. Fort Bliss officials said they were not aware of the arrest because neither Alvarado nor the Scottsdale Police Department notified the post.

Alvarado then missed several required check-ins with commanders. Such failures could trigger pretrial confinement. They didnt. After a month of missed check-ins, Alvarados company commander increased how often he had to contact his superiors and required him to write a 1,000-word essay on the importance of Army leaders ensuring the safety and well-being of their Soldiers.

How long do we need to let a serial predator continue to violate orders and harm people? said Franklin Rosenblatt, a law professor who previously served as a Fort Bliss judge advocate from 2010 to 2012.

Different Treatment

Army officials say that pretrial confinement should be a last resort because it detains soldiers before theyve been convicted of a crime. But Pvt. Olivia Ochoas experience shows how aggressive Army commanders can be even in cases with more minor infractions.

A San Antonio native, Ochoa became interested in military intelligence jobs after meeting a recruiter her senior year of high school. She joined the Army as a promising soldier in August 2020 shortly after graduating and was promoted in rank, according to her recruiter.

The 19-year-old soldier soon began to get in trouble. Months into her Army career, Ochoa was reprimanded for sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment after she and another soldier were accused of slapping each others butts, inner thighs and frequently flirting during formation in Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

The incident, which Ochoa denies, was the first in a series of run-ins with her drill sergeants, ranging from not carrying the appropriate amount of water in her water bottle to more serious issues like underage drinking and eating a THC edible.

Once I knew I was gonna get in trouble no matter how much I tried, I completely stopped trying, Ochoa said.

By May 2021, one of Ochoas drill sergeants recommended that she be released from the Army.

While waiting to be discharged, Ochoa said, she was sexually assaulted by another soldier at an off-post hotel. She initially worried that if she filed a report, the military would delay her release, but after her mental health began deteriorating, she decided to report the assault.

In July, Ochoa was caught with psychedelic mushrooms and what investigators believed to be a vape pen with THC. The Army charged her with drug possession and use.

Her commander placed her under restrictions that, among other things, allowed her to visit only the few buildings on post where she slept, ate and worked out.

Two days later, Ochoa got in trouble for refusing her superiors order to go back to bed after she left her room to check on a friend who was being placed in confinement. That was enough for commanders to place her in pretrial confinement the next day.

A military magistrate ordered Ochoas release about a week later, determining confinement was not warranted because she had not broken her restrictions.

Her freedom was short-lived.

In the week following her release, Ochoas commander again placed her in pretrial confinement after she was caught two days in a row at stores she had been barred from visiting, once trying to buy cough medicine she said she planned to take to get high.

Although the Armys case centered on drug use and possession, Ochoa was ultimately put in pretrial confinement both times for violating superior officers orders. Her commanders added seven new counts of disobeying and disrespecting superiors onto her drug case for reasons that included refusing to return to her room and visiting the on-post stores.

Ochoas actions showed that she should not be in the Army, but her punishment was excessive, said Rosenblatt, the law professor and former Army judge advocate. He said her case is an example of how pretrial confinement is used in arbitrary ways that can often be fueled by a commanders relationship with the soldier.

Commanders often interpret drug use as jeopardizing the morale or safety of the unit, whereas they tend to view sexual assaults as a conflict between two people, said Aniela Szymanski, a private attorney and Marine Corps Reserve judge advocate.

I think thats going to take some time for commanders to grow into having the same knee-jerk reaction to sexual assault offenses as they do to drug offenses, she said.

Ochoa spent 103 days in pretrial confinement. She stopped eating, barely slept and was losing her hair and eyelashes.

In November, after her initial trial date was pushed back by two months, Ochoa accepted a plea deal. She was sentenced to time served. During the hearing, Ochoa learned Army officials had decided not to pursue her sexual assault case, determining that they could not establish probable cause.

The decision was a surprise to Ochoa and her civilian lawyer, Sean Timmons, who said investigators did not interview key witnesses about the assault. Army officials later agreed to speak with additional people, but they came to the same conclusion and closed the case this year.

I believe if she was a soldier who they actually liked and wanted to see have a productive career, they probably would have already taken steps to do this investigation properly, Timmons, a former military attorney, said in an interview. But because they dont like her, theyre going to maltreat her and theyre going to do a half-assed job prosecuting him.

A Fort Huachuca spokesperson said the Army takes sexual assault allegations seriously and conducted a thorough and independent investigation into Ochoas case.

Broken

In March 2021, more than seven months after Alvarado confessed during his interrogation, he was placed in pretrial confinement.

By then, the allegations of sexual assault against him had drawn national attention. Asia Graham, the soldier who Alvarado acknowledged he sexually assaulted while she was unconscious, died at age 19 after accidentally overdosing on drugs. Before her death, Graham had written a letter to her mother, Nicole Graham, about the pain she felt because the Army had failed to take action against Alvarado.

The publicity around Grahams case caused two more women to come forward in an interview with the cable news network NewsNation and accuse Alvarado of assaulting them years earlier in Arizona. The women had not previously reported the incidents.

Commanders repeated decisions against pretrial confinement, which gave Alvarado the opportunity to assault Lee, did not draw public attention. But Alvarados civilian defense attorney last year, Sherry Bunn, told ProPublica and the Tribune that she believed Army leaders were simply reacting to the press and publicity and the political nature of Grahams and Guillens deaths when they decided to confine him. Army officials say he was put in pretrial confinement because of the additional allegations.

Nicole Graham said her daughter might still be alive had commanders placed Alvarado in detention earlier. That might have convinced her daughter, who was haunted by the assault, that the Army was taking the case seriously, the mother said.

I think she would have felt maybe stronger in her recovery and not self-medicated, she said.

Nicole Graham got the chance to face Alvarado on June 18, 2021, when a military judge found him guilty of sexually assaulting her daughter and Lee, of strangling Lee and of lying to investigators. The judge acquitted him of all other charges, including the sexual assault of the chaplains assistant. After the judges ruling, Nicole Graham read a statement from the stand about Asia: The military has let her down.

The judge sentenced Alvarado to 18 years and three months in a military prison and a dishonorable discharge from the Army. He got credit for the time he spent in pretrial confinement ahead of his trial: 108 days, five days more than Ochoa.

Because of the dishonorable discharge and the length of his sentence, Alvarados case is under automatic appeal. A decision is still pending. He remains in custody.

The fact that Alvarado is behind bars gives Lee little comfort. The attack changed her.

She still has nightmares about the presence of someone in her home, walking up the steps to her bedroom and beating on the door.

Life was not perfect before the assault. Shed lost a pregnancy before having her two children. Two marriages to Army soldiers ended. But she still had a life. She used to enjoy socializing, inviting friends over for game nights or going out around town.

Now, she stays home most of the time.

Shes thought about cutting her long hair, because attackers can grab you by the hair.

She no longer likes to be touched, especially on her face. Even her young daughter loving on her can sometimes cause her to panic.

Im a little more broken than I used to be.
Thousands of Afghans brought to the United States during the chaotic American military evacuation after the Taliban overran Kabul remain in a legal limbo nearly a year later, unsure whether they will be able to remain in their new country when their temporary immigration status expires soon.

Meanwhile, as the one-year anniversary of the withdrawal approaches, veterans groups have not let up efforts to get out the estimated 78,000 Afghans who aided the 20-year effort but were left behind when the last U.S. troops departed.

A bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers is taking initial steps to fix the immigration status of those who did make it out ahead of the U.S. withdrawal, introducing bills in the House and Senate this week to allow the Afghan refugees to permanently stay in the United States.

Read Next: Air Force Allows Facebook Comments Criticizing the Service Online After Veteran's Lawsuit

Supporters are hopeful the bill will become law, but the clock is ticking on both the legislative calendar and the Afghans' immigration status, with the August recess meaning a fix likely can't come in time for Afghans already in the U.S. before some see their legal status expire. The bill also contains several provisions meant to ease ongoing relocations.

"We're hopeful that passing this bill won't be as hard as passing the PACT Act," said Shawn VanDiver, a Navy veteran and president of the #AfghanEvac Coalition, referring to a veterans benefits bill that passed Congress last week after veterans camped outside the U.S. Capitol, protesting for several days straight. "It shouldn't take veterans standing watch in the hot sun to great physical detriment to get people to take action."

Monday will mark the one-year anniversary of Kabul falling to the Taliban, swiftly reversing many of the efforts of the longest war in U.S. history. The Taliban's victory set off a scramble among U.S. officials to evacuate as many vulnerable Afghans as possible before the Biden administration's self-imposed withdrawal deadline of Aug. 31, 2021.

Throngs of Afghans desperate to get onto a U.S. military flight swarmed the Kabul airport, leading to chaotic and heartbreaking scenes, including Afghans who had clung to the side of an American C-17 Globemaster III plummeting to their deaths as the aircraft ascended into the sky. Amid the chaos of the evacuation, the Afghan branch of ISIS carried out a suicide bombing that killed 13 U.S. troops.

By the time the last American forces departed just before midnight of the withdrawal deadline, more than 76,000 Afghans had been evacuated. Still, the majority of Afghans who worked as interpreters or otherwise helped the U.S. military and are eligible for what's called Special Immigrant Visas, or SIVs, were left behind, with advocates estimating that number was around 78,000 people plus family members.

Work on extracting the Afghans left behind continues. While declining to discuss specific numbers on the record, VanDiver, who meets with State Department officials weekly, said relocations of Afghans are ongoing. He said he's satisfied with the relocation process that's been put in place, but still said more could be done.

"More and faster, that's the best way I can describe it," he said. "I want to see a lot more relocations and a lot faster."

Matt Zeller, co-founder of No One Left Behind, an SIV support organization, said he fears many of those left behind have already been killed, based on anecdotal reports and preliminary results from a survey conducted by two organizations he works with, the Association of Wartime Allies and Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.

"Just yesterday, an interpreter that I've been trying to get out since the evac -- poor guy who was on the freakin' airfield the night Kabul fell  he texted me just yesterday morning at 11 o'clock in the morning our time to tell me that a friend of his, a former interpreter, had been killed by the Taliban," Zeller said Monday.

Of the Afghans who made it to the United States last August, most were brought under a temporary immigration status known as humanitarian parole, which allows people otherwise ineligible to enter the United States to come into the country temporarily for emergency humanitarian reasons.

Parole does not provide a pathway to apply for legal permanent resident status, more casually known as green cards. Some Afghan refugees were given two years of protection to stay in the United States, but some were given only one -- meaning they have weeks until they technically won't be in the United States legally anymore.

The Afghan Adjustment Act, which was introduced in the House on Tuesday and the Senate on Sunday, would create a streamlined process for the evacuated Afghans to get green cards. The Department of Homeland Security would also have to establish new vetting procedures for the Afghans seeking green cards.

Supporters of the bill have likened it to similar measures passed after other U.S. conflicts, such as for Vietnamese and other South Asian refugees after the fall of Saigon.

"We must keep our commitment to provide safe, legal refuge to those who willingly put their lives on the line to support the U.S. mission in Afghanistan," Rep. Earl Blumenauer, D-Ore., the lead sponsor of the House bill, said in a statement. "Congress has provided a legal adjustment process for previous wartime evacuations and humanitarian crises and should do so once again, without delay."

The bill also seeks to fix issues with the SIV program, such as the requirement that interviews be conducted at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, which no longer exists. Instead, the bill would establish a new State Department office to conduct interviews for visa applicants and carry out other duties that would have otherwise been the responsibility of the embassy. It also creates an "Interagency Task Force on Afghan Ally Strategy" to develop a plan to support SIV and refugee applicants.

The bill would also extend special immigrant status to certain former Afghan troops, including former members of the Afghanistan National Army Special Operations Command, the Afghan Air Force, the Special Mission Wing of Afghanistan and the Female Tactical Teams of Afghanistan.

"Giving them that statutory requirement will make sure that, no matter what happens in politics, that these folks get to realize the American Dream that they've earned," VanDiver said.

The introduction of the stand-alone bills is the most public progress made on the issue since May, when the Biden administration requested Congress include an Afghan Adjustment Act in a Ukraine aid bill. The proposal was left out of that bill amid objections from Republicans.

Supporters of the Afghan Adjustment Act have specifically blamed Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, for not signing off on including it in the Ukraine bill. A spokesperson for Grassley did not respond to Military.com's request for comment Tuesday.

Grassley has previously expressed concern about vetting of the Afghan refugees, saying in a statement Friday that Congress "should not even begin to consider proposals related to sweeping immigration status changes for evacuees, such as an Afghan Adjustment Act, until the Biden administration, at the very least, guarantees the integrity of and fully responds to long-standing congressional oversight requests regarding the vetting and evacuee resettlement process."

Supporters of the bill are hopeful for its chances now that it has bipartisan co-sponsors. The House bill is co-sponsored by Reps. Peter Meijer, R-Mich.; House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler, D-N.Y.; Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill.; Zoe Lofgren, D-Calif.; Mariannette Miller-Meeks, R-Iowa; Jason Crow, D-Colo.; Fred Upton, R-Mich.; and Scott Peters, D-Calif. The Senate bill was introduced by Sens. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn.; Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.; Chris Coons, D-Del.; Roy Blunt, R-Mo.; Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.; and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska.

But even with bipartisan support, the bill still faces hurdles, including a legislative calendar truncated by election season and with several priorities competing for floor time. Passing the measure before the end of this Congress in January could be done by attaching the measure to a must-pass bill such as one to fund the government when the fiscal year ends Sept. 30, but that is still after some Afghans' immigration status is set to expire at the end of August.

"This is not a matter of immigration. This is a national security issue," Zeller said. "This is down to, are we going to be able to have allies in the future going forward and future wars? Because allies, quite frankly, equals fewer American deaths."

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @reporterkheel.

Related: 10 Months Later, Afghan Refugees Labor to Build New Lives in US
We can say what we want about MREs (and we will), but compared to the other kinds of food handed out to military forces throughout history, the United States has it pretty good. By this standard, even C-rations and K-rations were a godsend.

It might even be said that the quality of American troops is related to the quality of their food. Two days after landing at Normandy, the U.S. was able to make hot food and fresh-baked bread and look at what happened: the liberation of Europe.

Still, despite the hardships of being at war, a lot of countries made do and even won wars with terrible food -- but that shouldn't be the goal.

1. Everyone: Hardtack Bread

If you bake something long enough, the moisture will evaporate and it'll keep for longer. This "secret" is one used by armies from the days of ancient Egypt up until World War I. Union soldiers in the American Civil War even complained of eating leftover hardtack from the Mexican War 15 years prior.

Made from salt, flour and a little bit of water, the Romans called it buccellum. Crusaders called it "muslin biscuit." Whatever you call it, it's just really, really hard bread. Eating it meant crushing it with something heavy (British sailors used cannonballs), mashing it into some kind of liquid and skimming the weevils from the liquid before consuming.

The oldest piece of hardtack still in existence is currently in a museum in Denmark, after being baked in 1851.

2. Crusaders: Pottage

Christian soldiers who were able to sack a Muslim camp during the Crusades would often stop fighting the battle they were currently winning so they could eat the enemy's food, even if it meant losing the battle and being slaughtered. According to John Hosler, associate professor of military history at the U.S. Army Command & General Staff College, they did it twice at the Siege of Acre.

The reason was probably because their main source of food was around 500 calories of pottage, a stew of boiled grains. If they were lucky, they might find something in the local area they could throw into the stew with it. Going off to war was pricey, and the Christian soldiers of Europe usually could take only what they could afford, which wasn't much more than a barley sack.

3. Mongols: Horse Blood and Milk

Having never drunk horse blood or milk, we can definitively say this is a terrible meal, and the Mongols did conquer the second-largest land empire ever, so credit this meal for that. Still, the Mongols relied on their horses for so much, they were known to say, "If the horse dies, I die."

According to explorer Marco Polo, the Mongols' feasts of horse blood and milk allowed them to ride for 10 days without stopping to light a fire. The milk of the horse could even be fermented to make kumiss, a low-alcohol beverage that, by all accounts, is very filling.

4. United States: "Embalmed Beef"

The Spanish-American War was the United States' first overseas war, and it was one the U.S. Army was ill-prepared for, especially in terms of feeding its troops. The Army needed food fast, and American meat companies were ready to respond. In the days before the Food and Drug Administration, the industry could pretty much do what it wanted -- and in the Spanish-American War, it did.

By the time the beef, either canned or refrigerated, arrived at the front, it smelled like an embalmed dead body. This was because it was later found to have been treated with harmful chemicals, like formaldehyde. Many men wouldn't eat it, but those who did suffered from food poisoning. One who did eat it, Theodore Roosevelt, would later become president of the United States and championed the Pure Food and Drug Act.

5. China: "Chow Mein"

This is not the chow mein we're used to seeing on Chinese takeout menus nationwide. It's also not even the canned stuff you get at the grocery store. During the Korean War, the chow mein used by the Chinese People's Volunteer Army was less like a noodle dish and more like a wet, crumbled hardtack.

In truth, it was actually more like a handful of dried, ground grains. When mealtimes came, the Chinese soldiers would add a little water to their flour and eat it cold as a porridge. If water wasn't readily available because supply lines were being bombed by the United Nations, Chinese volunteers would grab up handfuls of snow to mash into it.

-- Blake Stilwell can be reached at blake.stilwell@military.com. He can also be found on Twitter @blakestilwell or on Facebook.

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2:55pm: The Blue Jays have announced the signing, optioning utility player Otto Lopez to make space on the active roster and designating righty Matt Peacock for assignment to create space on the 40-man. Peacock was claimed off waivers from the Royals in July and has thrown ten innings for the Jays this year with a 5.40 ERA.

2:20pm: The Blue Jays are signing outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr., reports Ezekiel Telemaco of WEEI. Chris Cotillo of MassLive confirmed the deal on Twitter, reporting that its a major league deal. The Blue Jays have a full 40-man roster, meaning a corresponding move will be required.

Bradley, 32, was just released by the Red Sox last week and will now land with their division rivals in Toronto. The defensive specialist is having yet another down season at the plate, hitting .210/.257/.321 on the year. That production is 42% below league average, by measure of wRC+. The Red Sox let rookie Jarren Duran take over the center field position in recent months, with Bradley kicked to a corner. He was further nudged out of the outfield mix when they acquired Tommy Pham at the deadline, leading to Bradleys release.

Despite that tepid offensive production, Bradley can still provide value with his glove. Defensive Runs Saved has given him a five on the year, a drop from last years 12 but still quite good. Ultimate Zone Rating has given him a 4.9 on the campaign so far after a 10.7 last year. Outs Above Average has given him three on the year already, after accruing four last year. That puts him in the 84th percentile among fielders across the league this season.

The Blue Jays recently put George Springer on the injured list, but acquired Whit Merrifield at the deadline for some extra outfield depth. That gives them a current outfield rotation of Merrifield, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Teoscar Hernandez, Raimel Tapia and Bradley Zimmer. It seems unlikely that Bradley would get regular playing time over those first four, given his struggles with the bat. Zimmer, however, has been used primarily as a defensive replacement and pinch runner, hitting a meager .107/.212/.240 when in the lineup this year for a wRC+ of just 28. Perhaps the Blue Jays view Bradley as a better option for that defensive replacement and pinch runner position.

Bradley has shown more promise with the bat in the past, putting up a batting line of .283/.364/.450 as recently as 2020, producing a wRC+ of 119 in the shortened season. It was on the heels on that strong campaign that the Brewers signed him to a two-year, $24MM deal. However, Bradley struggled in his first year outside of Boston, hitting just .163/.236/.261. He was traded back to the Red Sox in the offseason, along with two prospects, while Hunter Renfroe went to Milwaukee. Though Bradley hasnt been as bad as he was last year, it was still enough to get released. The Red Sox will still be on the hook for the bulk of his contract, with the Blue Jays only having to pay the prorated league minimum, which be subtracted from what Boston pays.
Aug. 10: Carpenter will not require surgery, tweets Marly Rivera of ESPN. Hell be reevaluated in a month, with the club hopeful he could be back to action in six-to-eight weeks. That gives Carpenter a shot of returning for the stretch run and/or postseason play.

Aug. 9: The Yankees placed Carpenter on the 10-day injured list today, recalling Miguel Andujar to take his spot on the active roster.

Aug. 8: Yankees utilityman Matt Carpenter fractured his left foot during tonights game against the Mariners, the club announced. He fouled a ball off his foot in the third inning and was immediately replaced by Tim Locastro.

The club will provide more specifics and a timetable for his recovery in the coming days. Hell certainly require an injured list stint, and whether his season is in jeopardy should be known shortly. Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies fractured his foot in mid-June and has yet to embark on a rehab assignment, with the club estimating his recovery in the two-to-three month range. Dodgers outfielder Chris Taylor suffered a less devastating fracture in early July and returned to action over the weekend, missing exactly one month of action. Thats not to say either player offers a definite comparison point for Carpenter. His recovery timeline surely depends on the placement and severity of the fracture.

The injury interrupts what has been one of the more remarkable stories of the 2022 season. A three-time All-Star, Carpenter seemed to be nearing the end of his career after three years of well below-average play to close out his tenure with the Cardinals. The 36-year-old overhauled his swing path over the offseason but was still limited to minor league offers. He signed a non-roster pact with his hometown Rangers, and while he played well in Triple-A, he didnt have a path to playing time in Texas.

After being granted his release from his minor league deal with the Rangers, Carpenter received an immediate MLB opportunity with the Yankees. Brought on as a bench bat, hes played his way into an increasingly larger role with an unbelievable bounceback season. Carpenter has connected on 15 home runs in 154 plate appearances, posting an otherworldly .305/.412/.727 line. Hes forced his way into the lineup, with manager Aaron Boone rotating him between designated hitter and all four corner positions.

New York is already without primary DH Giancarlo Stanton, who has been on the shelf for a couple weeks due to Achilles tendinitis. First baseman Anthony Rizzo has dealt with a nagging back issue in recent days, although hes not required a stint on the injured list to this point.
08.08.2022 LISTEN

Legendary Veteran Ghanaian actor, Abeiku Nyame better known as Jagger Pee says he saw the death of veteran actor Prince Yawson also known as Waakye in his dream.

The late Waakye died on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra after suffering a mild stroke.

Reacting to the demise of the former Akan Drama actor in an interview on Hot 93.9FM's social program 'Ay3 Hu' - hosted by Nana Ampofo, Jagger Pee astonishingly revealed that he dreamt about the demise of Waakye days before he died.

"Waakye and I have been very good friends...We were more like brothers...We started our acting together during the late 80s. We were very close...But Nana Ampofo, do you know something? It's very strange. Do you know the Thursday before the Tuesday Waakye died, I saw his demise in my dream," Jagger Pee told Nana Ampofo

Explaining how he saw the demise in his dream, the celebrated Veteran actor said," I saw a coffin with many people crying around it ...so I asked my wife who had died and why they were crying...My wife then got close to the coffin and peeped inside the coffin...Immediately she saw the one in the coffin, she started shouting and wailing, immediately she decided to reveal the one in the coffin to me, I got up from my sleep."

Jagger Pee affirmed that together with his wife decided to go and visit Waakye at the 37 Military Hospital before he had a call that he had kicked the bucket.

Jagger Pee together with the late Waakye starred in hit movies such as 'Ogboo, 'Fatal Decision', Man Woman and Chorkor Trotro TV series.

They also featured in most of Harry Lauds productions.

---hotfmghana.com // contributor
Francisca Gawugah, better known as Sista Afia, a Ghanaian songwriter and musician, has responded to Takoradi-born hip-hop musician Stephen Kwabena Siaw, better known as Ayesem, who claims to be her ghostwriter.

Not long ago, the Taadi-born artiste spoke with Andy Dosty of Accra-based Hitz FM about being ostracised by Sista Afia despite writing several songs for her.

I decided not to talk about this whole thing because I felt she was a sister. I like Sista Afia because of her voice. She is powerful when it comes to singing. I liked her from day one, so I just wanted to support her, Ayisem told Andy Dosty during the interview.

To clear the air, Sista Afia recently granted a similar interview with Andy Dosty on his Hitz FM's Daybreak Hitz show, which was monitored by Modernghana News..

She never denied the claim.

She acknowledged that Ayesem had once written for her and even revealed that she had shown generosity to him in several musical features.

He has done this before and when I met him, he said he wanted to release a new song. At least he could have called me and not let me look bad. We have done so many songs. Corner Corner, singlet and Weather There are some songs that I have not even released yet. A year ago was when I started knowing about this publishing stuff, she said.

Ayesem should not have been so immature to make those accusations publicly, according to her.

I appreciate people. Its sad because you wont see Kdei sitting somewhere saying all that because he is mature. You wont see Singlet doing that. You dont have to do that, she said.
09.08.2022 LISTEN

Nana Ofori Agyemang, known affectionately as Oboy Siki, one of Ghanas most ferocious movie stars has taken a swipe at President Akufo-Addos government.

The actor asserted that Ghanaians were fooled during the days when then-candidate Akufo Addo was vying for votes where he claimed that corruption will never be allowed in his government.

Speaking in a video recorded by Kofi TV, Dada Santo, as he is mostly called, alleged the President is now amassing wealth for himself while Ghanaians continue to suffer.

"We the Ghanaians who are idiots thought Akufo-Addo was a wealthy person; and he confirmed that assumption himself by publicly stating that he was not in politics to amass wealth for himself, but today, all our monies are in Akufo-Addo's pocket," he said.

The controversial veteran actor did not stop there, as he attacked Assin Central Member of Parliament (MP) Kennedy Ohene Agyapong over his decision to become Ghana's next president.

According to Oboy Siki, the legislator acknowledges that the man he once hailed as the best ever President has failed, hence his motivation to succeed him.

NPP has become a cheap party, you have now realized that the Nana Addo you trusted is incompetent, that's why you are seeking to succeed him and rule this country," he said in a similar video.
09.08.2022 LISTEN

The Coordinator of the Greater Accra and Kumasi Metropolitan Assemblies (GAMA/GKMA) Sanitation and Water Project, Ing George Asiedu has said Ghanaians need to change their approach towards the environment.

He noted that the fight against poor sanitation can be achieved when Ghanaians change their attitude.

Speaking to the Modernghana News correspondent in a telephone interview, the Coordinator expressed worry about the improper disposal of solid and liquid waste, and the destruction of the environment.

Ing. George Asiedu said it is on the basis of this phenomenon that the Ministry of Sanitation and Water Resources is enforcing the laws to bring environmental offenders to book.

The Coordinator intimated that the sector Ministry is collaborating with the various Districts, Municipal and Metropolitan Assemblies across the country to undertake the exercise to tackle poor sanitation through the various interventions.

He added that the Ministry has taken steps to train Environmental Health Officers to enforce the laws and apply sanctions where necessary.

He said the Ministry has so far trained 150 Sanitation Health Officers who are actively working on the ground to tackle poor sanitation.

To this end, he indicated that the Ministry is embarking on a nationwide sensitization campaign on the dangers of poor sanitation and environmental issues.

Ing Asiedu underscored that as part of measures to realize the sanitation and environmental laws, the Sanitation Health Officers would move from house to house to inspect the surroundings.

According to him, fines to be slapped on sanitation offenders ranging from GHS500 to GHS2,000 or imprisonment.

"That is why government in a prudent manner through the Ministry of Water and Sanitation Resources introduced household toilets facility projects in some district assemblies in the Greater Accra and Greater Kumasi Regions respectively under World Bank funding to benefit Ghanaians," he stated.

Since the project was initiated in 2021, the Coordinator stressed that management has successfully provided thousands of ultra-modern household toilet facilities to beneficiaries.

He is urging the public especially those within Accra and Kumasi to take advantage of the project and contact their representatives to enable them get access to the household toilets at a very reduced cost.

Ing George Asiedu believes that when Ghanaians change their attitude and comply with the sanitation and environmental bye-laws, it will go a long way to not only curb outbreaks of diseases but it will also help avoid government from itself from spending millions of cedis on incidental cases that occur as a result of environmental pollutions.
09.08.2022 LISTEN

The founder and leader of the Christ Power Miracle Mission in Accra Dome in the Greater Accra Region, Very Rev. Prophet Anthony Kwarteng has said the nation stands the chance to free itself from the economic crisis.

He noted that it is only possible when experienced, knowledgeable and leaders of integrity are given the mandate to rule.

The Prophet who is popularly known as 'Abayifuosuro' dropped the hint in a telephone interview with the ModernGhana News correspondent King Amoah regarding the special national day intercessory program held on Friday July 29 at Dome.

The program was under the theme: "Save Ghana this day O Lord, in the Abundance of Resources" quoting from the Books of Eph 1-7, Judges 10-15 and 2 Kings 13 verse 5.

The program, according to the man of God is aimed at committing Ghana into the hands of God through intercessory prayers to produce Godfearing and credible leaders to steer the country's affairs.

According to him, some political parties in the country have been invited to join in the intercessory crusade for God's guidance to free the country from its current predicament.

Prophet Kwarteng observed that the challenges confronting the country cannot be linked to evil forces nor blamed it on Ghanaians.

He blames it squarely on leadership crisis.

"We lack the right and knowledgeable leaders to manage the country's resources," the Prophet pointed out.

Rev. Anthony Kwarteng alleged that mismanagement has plunged the country into total abys and it needs national intercessory prayers to deliver itself from the power of the darkness.

Ghana, he said has been blessed with almost all the natural resources, yet many are living in abject poverty.

Rev Kwarteng noted that instead of applying their skills and knowledge acquired from great universities to help develop the country, political leaders use their position to engage in all manner of corruption.

The man of God said it is against this background that he held the national intercessory prayers for God's mercy on the country.
A 27-year-old lady at Abessim in the Sunyani Municipality of the Bono Region, Madam Hilda Asumani Embro Tuesday July 27, 2022 broke down in tears when the Sunyani Circuit Court presided over by Her Ladyship Justice Mavis Ekua Andoh sentenced her to 10 years imprisonment in hard labour.

The sentence was handed down on the lady who also doubles as a hairdresser after finding her guilty of murder.

She was charged for stabbing her boyfriend, Prince Yaw Aboagye to death over grasscutter soup.

According to police facts, the duo have been in a relationship for about six years.

The reports said the lovebirds were engaging in petty quarrels over alleged cheating by the man.

Hilda seized Princes phone leading to a fight but were separated by their co-tenant.

Police sources indicated that the two lovebirds engaged in another fight after the man refused to share with the lady a grass cutter meal that he was enjoying one Monday evening.

The lady got angry and stabbed the boyfriend with scissors. The boyfriend sustained multiple wounds on his neck and chin. Prince was rushed to the hospital but died few moments after he was admitted.
The malnourished beluga whale that has made its way up the River Seine to within 70 kilometres of the French capital is no longer progressing but is still alive, the environmental group Sea Shepherd said on Monday. Hope that the animal can be saved is fading.

The animal was first spotted a week ago, in the river that runs through Paris to the English Channel. Belugas are normally found in salt water, inside the Arctic Circle.

The creature "is alert but not eating," Sea Shepherd France president Lamya Essemlali told the AFP news agency in a text message.

There has been "no worsening of its condition", she said. The animal remains seriously undernourished.

Although rescuers have tried feeding it frozen herring and then live trout, the animal has refused the food.

"His lack of appetite is surely a symptom of something else ... an illness. He is malnourished and this dates back weeks, if not months. He was no longer eating at sea," Essemlali said

"The euthanasia option has been ruled out for the moment, because at this stage it would be premature," she said.

Rescuers consider last-ditch bid

Since Friday the whale has been between two locks some 70 kilometres north of the French capital.

Rescuers are considering last-ditch efforts to extract the animal from the Seine as the river water is harming its health. Its fragile state makes such an undertaking dangerous.

One alternative would be to open the downstream lock gates in the hope that the beluga would swim towards the English Channel.

There is obviously the danger that the whale might move further upriver towards Paris.

Several attempts to feed the whale have failed.

On Saturday, veterinarians administered "vitamins and products to stimulate its appetite", said a statement on Sunday by the police in Normandy's Eure department, which is overseeing the rescue effort.

According to France's Pelagis marine observatory, the nearest beluga population is off the northern coast of Norway, 3,000 kilometres from the Seine.
Ghana and other African countries have been charged to urgently domesticate the provisions of the African Continental Free Trade Area, (AfCFTA) treaty to fast-track the continent's economic progress.

Secretary-General of the AfCFT, Mr. Wamkele Mene made the call at the maiden edition of the Ghana Trade Policy Enlightenment Summit for Foreigners, GaTPES2022, on Thursday, August 4, 2022, at the National Theatre, Accra.

GaTPES2022, which was held under the theme 'Helping Foreign Businesses to better Navigate the Trade Policy Landscape', was organised by Ghana's premier travels company, Standard Travel and Tour, STT.

It had the endorsements of the GIPC, RGD, Lands Commission, GRA, FDA, Office of the Speaker of Parliament and the AfCFTA headquarters with support from Fine-Prints Limited, Eddu Motors and the Ezeigbo Ghana Foundation, among others

Mene urged state parties to the AfCFTA agreement to use its provision to build their economies and transform lives.

"The agreement, which is the treaty, needs to be translated into laws; and those laws are then used by the business person in order to do business, and to put money in the pockets of the business person, and to put money in the economy of the country at large," Mene stated.

Echoing the same sentiment in his address, the Speaker of Ghana's Parliament, Right Honourable Alban Bagbin, assured of legislative support of the Parliament of Ghana to make the AfCFTA and the goal of greater intra-African trade a reality.

"The AfCFTA has come to stay," he assured.

Mrs Beatrice Chaytor, AfCFTA

Mr. Mene was represented by Mrs. Beatrice Chaytor, head of trade in services division at the AfCFTA headquarters; while Mr. Bagbin was represented by chairman of the house committee on trade and tourism, and member representing Tema West, Hon. Carlos Kingsley Ahenkorah.

According to Mene, "AfCFTA brings together 1.3 billion people on the African continent. It also brings together the various economic communities. It equally ensures that there are economies of scale. It essentially takes previously small fragmented economies and creates a single African market for trade in goods and trade in services. Additionally, (AfCFTA) will bring together other areas of the economy, such as investments, intellectual property rights, and competition.

"There are other legal instruments, called annexes that provide for customs cooperation, technical standards, sanitary standards, rules of origin. Rules of origin help to ensure that only qualifying goods that are made in Africa benefit from the preferences under the AfCFTA agreement. It will also include trade remedies, transit, trade facilitation. And all of these will help to ease the process of doing business in Africa. It will bring down the cost of trade transactions and streamline processes for the business community. Under trade in services, the first round of trade liberalisation will open up services such as business services, telecom, financial services, transport and tourism.

"In the second round, we will cover the remaining seven service areas, such as construction, education, health, energy-related services, etc. Now, we are in the final stages of negotiations between the state-parties to the agreement. And each country is then obliged to implement the provisions of the agreement. They must publish the laws or regulations in a prominent place, for instance in their official gazette or the internet, to ensure there is transparency. And the business community will then make use of these laws in order to transact business. So, in addition to the AfCFTA legal instruments, we also have supporting measures, such as the Pan-African Payment System. This Pan-African Payment System is the collaboration between the AfCFTA secretariat, the African Union Commission and the African Export-Import Bank, Afrexim Bank. That will enable any business person to pay for goods and services in a local currency, and those local currencies will then be convertible into the local currencies of another.

"For instance, you are a business person in Ghana, and you want to transact business with a supplier in Burkina Faso or in Angola, you pay with your cedi, and the person in Angola receives in peso while the person in Burkina Faso receives in CFA franc. What I want to leave with you is that this AfCFTA is a tool for business, because trade is a developmental tool. It's not just to be sitting in the statute books of your country. Effectively, the agreement, which is the treaty, needs to be translated into laws; and those laws are then used by the business person in order to do business, and to put money in the pockets of the business person, and put money into the economy of the public at large. You must use the provisions of the AfCFTA, you must use the opening up of the markets to do your business across countries in order to build your economies and to further your economic progress and transform lives."

Hon. Carlos Ahenkorah

The summit, which intends to hold annually, aims to boost foreign investors' confidence in Ghana's economy.

Against the backdrop of sporadic spates of local business-foreign business tensions in Ghana which tend to give Ghana a bad international image, the event brought together under one roof state agencies responsible for implementing Ghana's trade policy and laws as well as members of the foreign business community in the country to foster better understanding, to help repair the damage done to Ghana's image; and, to help vitiate Ghana's present economic difficulties that has necessitated the country's recent return to the IMF.

Additional to the Ministry of Trade and Industry, MOTI, other partners to the event are the Ghana Investments Promotion Center, GIPC; Registrar-General's Department, RGD; Food and Drugs Authority, FDA; Lands Commission; Ghana Prisons Service; Office of the Speaker of Parliament; and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area, (AfCFTA) headquarters, among others.

Specific presentations were made by Mrs Jemimah Oware, Registrar-General of the Registrar-General's Department; Mr.Victor Akogo, deputy commissioner-general and head of compliance of the Ghana Revenue Authority, GRA; Dr. Benjamin Armah Quaye, head of the special projects unit at the Lands Commission, Ms. Evelyn Nyarko of the Ghana Investments Promotion Centre, among others.

Diplomats who participated in the event include the ambassador of Suriname, Ms. Fidelia Graand-Galon; Ambassador of Colombia; charge d'affaires of Namibia, Ms. Evilene Hansen, as well as the trade secretary of the Iranian embassy in Ghana, Mr. Hussain Barharmi.

Foreign communities that attended the event include the Indian, Lebanese, Chinese, and Nigerian communities, among other segments of the international community in Ghana.

Other dignitaries also present were Eze (Dr) Chuks Jude Ihenetu, the Ezeigbo, or king of the Igbo community (of Nigeria) in Ghana, among other cultural leaders.
08.08.2022 LISTEN

Ghanas long-serving clothing brand, GTP Ghana Limited, has rebranded with a captivating slogan and enticing designs.

As part of the rebranding, the fashion conglomerate has changed its slogan from "timeless" to "Life. styled."

The wonderful rebranding show comes off at the GTPs factory premises in Tema on Monday, August 8.

The event was accompanied by a fashion show featuring some of the finest Ghanaian fashion models styled by some top-notch designers in the country  aimed at outdooring the new design and rebranding of GTP.

It also focuses on bringing new products to the market, adding value and expanding its manufacturing base.

Miss Fatoumata Doro, the Managing Director (MD) for Vlisco Ghana-GTP Fashion Limited, revealed at the program's climaxing stage that the country, the entire African continent and the world will soon experience GTP as the best fashion brand.

Miss Doro acknowledged everyone's efforts in promoting GTP and urged everyone could come on board once again to help make their new dream a reality.

"I hope you enjoyed every bit of the program, particularly the new designs we showcased. From now and for many years to come, we look forward to becoming the best African fashion brand and we will need you all on board to ensure that we achieve our dreams," she said.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, the Managing Director explained in detail the purpose of the relaunch. She said, "Today, what we did was to relaunch the brand, but beyond that, there is a whole transformation of the new TSA, which is a blissful Ghana.

She continues, "We want to sustain our growth and become innovative and always come up with new designs to redefine our business. We are also going to provide support for about 5,000 Ghanaian tailors in about 5 to 6 years to come.

Throwing more light on the need for the company's rebranding, ace Ghanaian actress, Martha Ankomah, the brand ambassador for GTP noted that "As you know, for the past years, I have been promoting and making sure that the brand GTP is selling worldwide, so we will keep on with the promotion and as we have moved from timeless to "Life. Styled, we hope that our brand becomes a global one.

The relaunched was graced by several fashion-loving individuals, including Akumaa Mama Azimbi of multimedia, fashion designer members from the general public and the media.
Martha Ankomah, a well-known Ghanaian actress and official brand ambassador for GTP Ghana Limited has reaffirmed the company's desire for global recognition.

She stated that the company's officials have made it a priority to see the brand establish itself on the global market.

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of GTP's relaunch program today, Monday, August 8, at its factory premises in Tema, she added that they will use effective promotion strategies to ensure their goal is met.

"As you know, for the past years, I have been promoting and making sure that the brand GTP is selling worldwide, so we will keep on with the promotion and as we have moved from timeless to "Life. Styled," we hope that our brand becomes a global one, she said.

The GTP has rebranded itself aiming at outdooring the new design and rebranding of GTP from "timeless" to "Life. Styled."

This also focuses on bringing new products to the market, adding value and expanding its manufacturing base.

Miss Fatoumata Doro, the Managing Director (MD) for Vlisco Ghana-GTP Fashion Limited, speaking on the sidelines of the event, explained in detail the purpose of the relaunch. She stated, "Today what we did was to relaunch the brand, but beyond that, there is a whole transformation of the new TSA, which is a blissful Ghana."

She continues, "We want to sustain our growth and become innovative and always come up with new designs to redefine our business. We are also going to provide support for about 5,000 Ghanaian tailors in about 5 to 6 years to come.
In a recent video on social media by the Vice President of Ghana H. E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, he made some remarks about Christians and Muslims that has sparked debates.

The Veep, who is a staunch Muslim, said the following in a speech he made on a Christian platform;

"As children of the only one and true God, whether Muslim or Christian, we all believe in the God of Isaac, Jacob and Abraham. We all believe in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ...We all believe that Jesus Christ is the Saviour and He will come back to save the world. So, this is what should bring us together as a people. We must see religion as a force for unity and not a force for division. This is a charge we must keep as children of God.

In an earlier news report of a speech he gave, he said some things to the same effect when he noted,

"Indeed, there are more mentions of Mary in the Holy Quran than in the whole New Testament We all believe in the miracles of Jesus Christ. We believe as Muslims he talked when he was in the cradle. We believe the miracles He performed to give sight to the blind and so on. In addition, as Muslims and Christians we all believe that Jesus will come back before the day of judgment, to defeat the false prophet or the anti-Christ. We all share that common belief as Muslims and Christians.

Let's take our time to deal with the issues Dr. Bawumia raised and interrogate them considering what the Bible teaches. In Berea, the believers measured the teachings of Apostle Paul against what the Bible teaches to know whether they were true. (Acts 17:11)

Before we delve into the main issues, let's consider the major effect of believing Christians and Muslims worship the same God. If a Muslim is a child of God just like a Christian is, then they are part of the redeemed and bride of Christ. It will therefore be unfruitful to reach out to Muslims with the gospel of Christ. But for us Christians, we believe that anyone outside of Christ needs salvation which is by the grace of God alone. (Ephesians 2:8)

Dealing With The Main Issues

Let's proceed to the issues raised and see how they square with the revealed word of God.

In Renewal Theology: Systematic Theology from a Charismatic Perspective, J. Rodman Williams noted that a key function of doing theology is to correct errors which Paul affirms in Ephesians 4:14 that sound teaching avoids people being tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine.

Rodman wrote;

"Theology serves as a corrective to departures from the truth. By articulating as clearly as possible the various truths of the Christian faith, it indirectly seeks to redress imbalances or errors that may have occurred. It is essential for the health of Christian faith to point away from such deviations."

An article on Wikipedia summarised the great gulf of difference between Christianity and Islam,

"Muslims view Christians to be People of the Book, and also regard them as kafirs (unbelievers) committing shirk (polytheism) because of the Trinity, and thus, contend that they must be dhimmis (religious taxpayers) under Sharia law. Christians similarly possess a wide range of views about Islam. The majority of Christians view Islam as a false religion due to the fact that its adherents reject the Trinity, the divinity of Christ, and the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ.

There are four (4) issues I want us to clarify:

#1. Are Christians And Muslims Children Of God?

"As children of the only one and true God, whether Muslim or Christian, we all believe in the God of Isaac, Jacob and Abraham.

It is true that God made all human beings including believers and unbelievers (Genesis 1:26-27; Psalm 24). But does the Bible teach that Christians and Muslims are children of the living God? Certainly, to say Muslims are children of God means that we are all cut from the same Source. Yes, Islamic religion has its semblance with the Jewish way of life which can be found in the Old Testament, but does that qualify them to be children of God? It will be erroneous to say yes because not even all Jews are Christians (Romans 9:6-9).

Who is a child of God according to the Bible? The Bible teaches that the children of God are the righteous who have put their trust in His Son Jesus Christ. Both Jews and Gentiles who have repented of their sin and have faith in Christ Jesus are children of God. Have Muslims placed their trust in Jesus Christ?

Writing on Do Christians and Muslims Worship the Same God? Dr. Al Mohler, Christian theologian and President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary noted that,

"Christians and Muslims do not worship the same God. Christians worship the triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and no other god. We know the Father through the Son, and it is solely through Christ's atonement for sin that salvation has come. Salvation comes to those who confess with their lips that Jesus Christ is Lord and believe in their hearts that God has raised him from the dead (Romans 10:9). The New Testament leaves no margin for misunderstanding. To deny the Son is to deny the Father.

Let's look at some Scriptures to make this matter clear:

John 1:12-13 (NKJV) says,

"But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God."

Romans 8:14 (NKJV) notes that,

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God."

Galatians 3:26 (NKJV) says that,

For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

Can Muslims confidently boast about the finished work of Christ on the cross they don't believe even happened? Can they say they have received Christ, are led by the Spirit, and have faith in Christ? I doubt it. At best what they will say is that they will go to heaven because of their good deeds. But Christians believe that we are children of God, and we have eternal life because of the word of Christ on the cross. By now, I am sure you have concluded that it is impossible for both Christians and Muslims to be children of God.

#2. Do Christians And Muslims Believe In The Virgin Birth?

We all believe in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ.

"Indeed, there are more mentions of Mary in the Holy Quran than in the whole New Testament We all believe in the miracles of Jesus Christ. We believe as Muslims he talked when he was in the cradle. We believe the miracles He performed to give sight to the blind and so on.

It is easy for people to say Jesus was born by the virgin Mary but very difficult for Islam to swallow that Jesus is God Almighty. In fact, they go ahead to say that We believe as Muslims he (Jesus) talked when he was in the cradle.

Don't be confused. Saying Jesus was born of virgin Mary is one part of the truth. It is historically undeniable that the virgin birth of Christ happened. Here is another part which makes it whole: do Muslims believe Jesus Christ is God? Here is where all hell breaks loose because they don't. If they do, that will amount in their logic as having multiple gods to worship. They deny the Holy Trinity which the Apostles Creed affirms. The Trinity teaches that there is one God who exists in three equally divine Persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

The virgin birth is not just a human birth but also a supernatural birth. The Holy Spirit overshadowed Mary to conceive the Child Jesus. Thus, the Bible teaches that Jesus is God incarnate. He is 100% God and 100% man.

Pastor-Teacher John MacArthur wrote in The Gospel According to Islam that,

"Islam rejects the Trinity and the God of the Bible, insisting instead that Allah alone is the one true deity. It denies that Jesus is God, that He died on the cross, and that He was raised from the dead. Instead, say Muslims, Jesus was but one of thousands of prophets sent by Allah, the greatest of them being Mohammed. In other words, Jesus was merely a man.

Here are what Scriptures say about this:

"But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons." (Galatians 4:4-5 NKJV)

Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel, which is translated, God with us. (Matthew 1:23 NKJV)

Long before Jesus was born, Isaiah 9:6 said,

6 For unto us a Child is born,

Unto us a Son is given;

And the government will be upon His shoulder.

And His name will be called

Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Alright, lets read the Qurans own testimony on this:

It is written in Surah 112:0-4 that,

In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

Proclaim, He is the One and only God. The Absolute God. Never did He beget. Nor was He begotten. None equals Him.

Again, Surah 25:2 says,

He to whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth and who has not taken a son and has not had a partner in dominion and has created each thing and determined it with (precise) determination.

Therefore, if you only pitch Jesus at human level, you are likely to put Him at par with Mohammed or any other worldly leaders. But that will be half-truth which is no truth. For Jesus to be 100% God and 100% man means that He is perfectly qualified to atone for mans sins. Thus, Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:21 that For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

#3. Do Christians and Muslims Believe Jesus Is The Saviour?

We all believe that Jesus Christ is the Saviour and He will come back to save the world.

In addition, as Muslims and Christians we all believe that Jesus will come back before the day of judgment, to defeat the false prophet or the anti-Christ. We all share that common belief as Muslims and Christians.

This is another statement that needs to be unpacked. If Jesus is the Saviour, does He save people to become Christians, Muslims and other religious sects? If so, then we are headed for confusion because every religion will claim to have their own way to heaven. But this can be easily settled by the word of God.

Jesus is our Saviour in the sense that He delivers us from the wrath of God and the powers of sins. He came to save that which was lost. Galatians 1:1-5 says Jesus is the Son of God who gave Himself for our sins to deliver us from evil.

Writing on Is Allah of Islam the same as Yahweh of Christianity? Daniel Janosik, Adjunct Faculty (Apologetics), Columbia International University stated that,

"Muslims deny that Jesus died on the cross and they reject the belief in his resurrection from the dead. Only a triune God, defined as one essence and three persons, could become incarnate and still remain God of the universe, and yet this is the God that Muslims reject. For them, Jesus cannot be God nor can God be a Father, for he cannot have a son. Therefore, if Muslims reject God as the Father of Jesus, then Allah cannot be the same as the God of the Bible.

Let's look at some Scriptures about Jesus as Saviour:

1 Timothy 1:15 says,

This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.

John 14:6 says,

Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

1 Timothy 2:5 states,

For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus.

Acts 4:12 notes,

Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.

If Jesus is the Saviour of both Christians and Muslims, why do we have two separate ways of worshiping God and Allah? If Jesus is their Saviour, is He also their God because Christians submit to Jesus as their Lord (Philippians 2:9-11)? These are important questions that expose the notion that Muslims believe Jesus is Saviour.

#4. Must Muslims And Christians Unite?

So this is what should bring us together as a people. We must see religion as a force for unity and not a force for division. This is a charge we must keep as children of God.

I knew when the Vice President was making the above assertions, he would finally end where he says we must all unite. Unity on what basis and for what? If Muslims are truly regenerated, the call for unity is pointless because truly born-again people are already united in Christ (Ephesians 4:1-6).

1 Peter 1:22 says,

Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart,.

John 17:21-23 states,

21 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. 22 And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: 23 I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.

Christian unity is driven by love and anchored on sound biblical doctrine. If Islam does not believe that Jesus is God, that He died on the cross, that salvation is in Him alone, then on what basis are we equally yoked together? How can two walk together unless they agree (Amos 3:3). We unite because we are children of God who are washed by the blood of Christ and continually being worked on until our final salvation.

I would plead with the Vice President to call the unsaved to the cross for the mercy of God. No amount of religious talk and struggling to show similarities will bring unity of any spiritual value.

Let the unsaved heed the example of the tax collector in Luke 18:13-14.

13 And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, God, be merciful to me a sinner! 14 I (Jesus) tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.

It is important to reiterate our main points which Pastor John MacArthur aptly reechoes in Understanding Islam when he wrote,

"Islam is fundamentally and irreconcilably opposed to biblical Christianity. Islam teaches that Jesus Christ was a mere mana prophet, and not God incarnate. Islam also denies that Jesus died on a cross. Obviously, if Christ did not die on the cross, He did not have to rise from the dead; so Islam denies the resurrection, too.

Islam further teaches that no one can have salvation but a Muslim. Even though a Muslim can never know whether he has salvation, only Muslims can have it in the end.

It is imperative for Christians to know our doctrinal values in order to properly preach to the dying world. If we don't draw the dividing lines, we will water down our cherished doctrines that will offer no eternal value to the world.

May the Lord help us to understand what we believe and live them before the world.

Share what you have learnt with me. I will be glad to read them.

Eric Otchere

www.erikotchere.wordpress.com

[email protected]
08.08.2022 LISTEN

When "Akosombo" (electricity) first came to Goka, during the reign of John Agyekum Kuffuor as the president of Ghana, and Oburoni Vasco, the regent of Goka, long before Okokyeredom Ampofo II was installed as a chief, a lawless miser caused total darkness to the entire religious and pilgrims pride town of Goka.

Electricity was nothing new to the Goka people, because decades earlier, the renowned prophetess Maame Sarah of blessed memory, had personally funded the illumination of Goka streets and homes of the relatively rich individuals with a diesel powered generator lighting system. But being connected to that of the entire nation, and funded by the taxpayer was a different terrain altogether.

Now on the national grid, the government representatives announced that only qualified and certified electricians are to be contracted to connect electric power to people's homes. Unqualified and quack electricians who flout this dictate would face the full rigours of the law with a mandatory surcharge of damages caused to the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

But a naughtily miser of Asante import and a settler at Goka, Kwaku Duakwa, never heard any of this serious decree by the authorities.

He purchased cables from a low price shop in his native Kumasi, and upon reaching Goka, under stealth, he wired his entire apartment. When night fell, he wanted to surprise his neighbours with his newfound happiness - electricity in his home.

Luck however eluded him, nature cannot be cheated, so is science and practicality; all his entire compound shook and trembled violently with electric shock, and his fuse got blown, causing the entire town to be burdened with total darkness for three troubling days. Those who had stored food in fridges watched it spoil, the televisions were useless, mobile phones went off with no power to charge it. The barbers and the hairdressers were out of job, so did any other business that depended on electricity to operate. It was only those that had fuel powered generators to charge phones at an exorbitant price who stayed in robust business.

Investigations commenced, and it fell on the recalcitrant Kwaku Duakwa to be the cause of this misery, as people who are now accustomed to sleeping under electric fans can't go to sleep anymore without it.

If he was to pay the full cost of the damages caused, even letting out his blood bit by bit to defray it, Kwaku Duakwa will have none remaining in his veins to stand his ground as a living being. Yet, the law can't be sympathetic to lawless folks, and he was convicted to spend time behind bars to learn how to be law abiding, and also serve as a deterrent to others.

Moral Lesson

The Bono people say: "wosuro atky mpaboa a, wofura ne ntoma". To wit: (failure to follow the right procedure comes at a cost).

By Charles Yeboah (Sir Lord)

+233(0)249542111

[email protected]
A Guinean political coalition Monday called for renewed demonstrations against the ruling junta, ending a truce for lack of response to its demands for "credible dialogue" on the transition to civilian rule.

The call to protest on August 17 came after the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC) -- an influential alliance of political parties, trade unions and civil society organisations -- halted demonstrations following deadly clashes and a plea for calm by West Africa's regional bloc.

Demonstrations on July 28 and 29 -- announced, in defiance of an ongoing protest ban, to denounce the ruling junta's "unilateral management of the transition" to civilian rule -- left five people dead.

A second protest was planned for August 4, but the coalition called it off after the chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Guinea-Bissau's leader Umaro Sissoco Embalo, asked its members to give mediation a chance.

Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, who overthrew ex-president Alpha Conde last September, pledged to return power to elected civilians within three years, a transition period that regional powers and most domestic political actors have rejected, with ECOWAS suspending Guinea after the coup.

In a statement released Monday, the FNDC denounced the junta's "contemptuous and arrogant refusal to respond to the numerous calls for dialogue on the transition" and its "chronically defiant attitude towards the regional and international community".

It also denounced the military leaders' "illegal use of lethal weapons in managing demonstrations".

It demanded that the junta open a framework for "credible dialogue" with political and civil society groups, set a "reasonable and consensual" deadline for the return to democracy and unconditionally release all political detainees linked to the demonstrations.

Two of the coalition's leaders -- Oumar Sylla, alias Fonike Mangue, and Ibrahima Diallo -- as well as Saikou Yaya Barry, the executive secretary of the Union of Republican Forces (UFR) political party, were still being held Monday in Conakry's civil prison.

They have been charged with unlawful assembly, looting, the destruction of property and intentional assault and battery.

On Monday, Sylla's lawyer told local media that the FNDC leader did not "recognise" what he is accused of and believes he is "within his rights to fight for the establishment of democracy".

Embalo in late July said he had convinced the junta to shorten the transition period from three to two years, a statement that has not been confirmed by Guinea.
08.08.2022 LISTEN

Report of Investigation into Alleged Commission of Corruption and Corruption-Related Offences involving Labianca Group of Companies and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority

3 August 2022

1.0 Introduction

1.1 The Office of the Special Prosecutor presents this report on an investigation into a complaint of corruption and corruption-related offences against Labianca Company Limited and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority.

1.2 The report has been redacted to protect the privacy of persons and lawful trade secrets of investigated companies.

2.0 Background

2.1 On 16 November 2021, the Office of the Special Prosecutor (hereafter, OSP) received a written complaint from one Frank Asare against Labianca Group of Companies and its subsidiaries (hereafter, Labianca) and the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (hereafter, Customs Division).

2.2 The complainant alleged ongoing corrupt, illegal and questionable dealings between Labianca and the Customs Division resulting in unlawful markdown or reduction of benchmark values of frozen food products imported by Labianca under the guise of customs advance rulings. According to the complainant, the unlawful markdowns or reductions of benchmark values were procured and being procured chiefly because the beneficial owner and Chief Executive of Labianca, Ms. Eunice Jacqueline Buah Asomah-Hinneh engages in influence peddling through her positions as a member of the Council of State and a member of the Board of Directors of Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.

2.3 The complainant contended that Labianca has gained undue competitive market advantage in the frozen foods industry by reason of the alleged corrupt and other unlawful dealings. It was also alleged that the same undue competitive market advantage had been secured for supposed subsidiaries of Labianca  Rafano Frozen Foods Company Limited and Yoba Capital Limited.

3.0 Investigation

3.1 The Special Prosecutor, upon determining that the complaint was within the mandate of the OSP, authorised the commencement of preliminary investigation into the matter in accordance with regulation 5 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (Operations) Regulations, 2018 (L.I. 2374). The preliminary investigation was conducted with as little intrusion into the privacy of individuals

and the business operations of the cited companies as the circumstances permitted.

3.2 Labianca, being the main subject of the investigation, was directed to submit the following documents covering the period 2017 - 2021 in accordance with section 29 of the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959) and regulation 10 of L.I. 2374:

i. Mode of payment for consignments (including Transfers and SWIFT)

 to ascertain actual payments to suppliers ii. Sales contracts  to verify descriptions of products from suppliers abroad

iii. Original invoices  to ascertain pricing of products and INCOTERMS iv. Bills of lading  for crosschecking with shipping lines

Sales books  to ascertain quantity and description of products sold

Applications for customs advance ruling with attachments and annexures  to ascertain declared values and the basis for the grant by the Customs Division of markdown on benchmark values

List of all consignments to be cleared  to prevent subsequent clearance and assure markup of values where necessary

Details of company registration and that of subsidiaries (if any)  to detect the clearance of consignments through other persons, natural and juridical

Annual Tax Returns filed at the Domestic Tax Revenue Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority

List of company assets

Record of employees

Declaration of property and income of officers of the company

Upon being satisfied that the circumstances of the matter reasonably indicated so, the Special Prosecutor authorised the commencement of full investigation under regulation 6 of L.I. 2374 to prevent or prosecute corruption or corruptionrelated offences. In aid of the investigation, several persons were invited to the offices of the OSP for interviewing and they were accorded the right to be represented by Counsel and full opportunity to respond to the complaint.

As a result of the nature of the documents obtained by the OSP during preliminary investigation, there was no necessity to request the complainant for further assistance.

The Deputy Commissioner for Customs, Mr. Joseph Adu Kyei was interviewed on 10 January 2022 in the presence of his Counsel, ACP/Mr. Edmond Omari

and ACP/Mr. Samuel Tetteh, both Customs Officers. Mr. Adu Kyei was considered a necessary person to the investigation as it was found that he granted markdown of benchmark values to Labianca in respect of frozen goods.

Ms. Eunice Jacqueline Buah Asomah-Hinneh was interviewed on 19 January 2022 in the presence of her Counsel, Mr. Owusu Adokoh of Rosentesia Law Firm, Accra. Ms. Asomah-Hinneh was considered a necessary person to the investigation as the beneficial owner and Chief Executive of Labianca and in respect of whom the complainant had alleged corruption and corruption-related offences in favour of Labianca by employing her high standing as a member of the Council State and a member of the Board of Directors of Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.

Mr. Etse Gadegbeku was interviewed on 19 January 2022 in the presence of his Counsel, Mr. Owusu Adokoh of Rosentesia Law Firm, Accra. Mr. Gadegbeku was considered a necessary person to the investigation as the Managing Director of Labianca with responsibility for the day-to-day administration of the company.

The Commissioner for Customs, Colonel (Rtd.) Kwadwo Damoah was interviewed on 16 February 2022 in the presence of his lawyer, Mr. Bob Senyalah of Senyalah Law Bureau, Accra. Colonel (Rtd.) Damoah was considered a necessary person to the investigation as the supervisor of the official duties of Mr. Adu Kyei and the ultimate bearer of responsibility.

4.0 Findings

4.1 Labianca Company Limited commenced operations in 2014 and it is wholly owned and controlled by Ms. Asomah-Hinneh on all practical and legal considerations. The company, it appears, imports about two hundred (200) forty (40) footer shipping containers of frozen chicken parts, fish, pork and fries monthly primarily from Europe and the United States of America. It enjoys a substantial market share in the imported frozen foods industry.

4.2 There was not much engagement with the Customs Division in the first three (3) years of the companys operations beyond the settlement of standard customs duty and other tax obligations until 2017 when the company actively commenced applications to the Customs Division for the acceptance by the latter of the values of frozen foods it intended to import. By the time the company commenced the applications, Ms. Asomah-Hinneh had been elected a member of the Council of State representing the Western Region and appointed a member of the governing board of Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority  positions she held at all material times. On this reckoning, Ms. Asomah-Hinneh is a politically exposed person as defined under section 79 of Act 959.

4.3 It would appear that the coincidence of the indicated applications and the public office appointments of Ms. Asomah-Hinneh was not altogether accidental. There is strong evidence to suggest that the events are a product of influence peddling.

4.4 Of especial significance to the investigation is a joint application for the acceptance of values of frozen foods intended to be imported lodged at the Customs Division by Labianca and Rafano Frozen Foods Company Limited on 6 April 2021, two (2) months after the appointment of Mr. Adu Kyei as the Deputy Commissioner of the Customs Division in charge of operations.

4.5 The application was almost outlandish as it, in effect, requested for the acceptance by the Customs Division of a range of values between 50% - 80% lower than the approved benchmark values of the frozen foods in question. Mr. Adu Kyei, who was seized with the matter, declined the prayer of the applicants on the advice of the Customs Technical Services Bureau (CTSB). Had the matter ended there, the complaint would have had no substance and the investigation would have terminated at the preliminary stage. Further, the perplexingly audacious nature of the application would have been rendered of no moment.

4.6 However, Mr. Adu Kyei proceeded to render a customs advance ruling to the applicants by reducing the values of their intended imports between a range of 5% - 10% below the approved benchmark values of frozen foods. Mr. Adu Kyei claimed that he based his decision on proper procedure  being a letter dated 6 February 2018 authored by Mr. Isaac Crentsil, a former Commissioner of the Customs Division and that his decision resulted in the prevention of loss of revenue to the State. Mr. Adu Kyei also contended that his decision to reduce the benchmark values for the applicants was founded on the practical guidelines for valuation control by the World Customs Organization issued in June 2012, particularly at pages 22 and 23.

4.7 Customs advance ruling is an authoritative decision in respect of the tax consequences of a transaction or a proposed transaction or an assessment in that regard. The United Nations Trade Facilitation Implementation Guide sums up the main attribute of customs advance ruling as facilitating the declaration and consequently the release and clearance process, as critical assessments in relation to the goods referred to in the ruling.

4.8 Section 151 of the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891) defines customs advance ruling as a binding written statement by customs that interprets and applies customs laws and regulations to a specific set of facts upon application by a trade about a prospective transaction. The regime of customs advance ruling is governed by section 12 of Act 891. It details the circumstances for the issuance of the ruling, who may issue it, and who may apply for it.

4.9 Customs advance rulings are ordinarily issued by the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority. The OSP finds that for practical purposes customs advance rulings are issued by the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority. The propriety or otherwise of this practice is not the object of the present investigation, and the OSP did not find any probable cause to involve the Commissioner-General in this investigation at this stage. This is because the purported customs advance ruling issued by Mr. Adu Kyei and apparently approved by Colonel (Rtd.) Damoah did not appear to have been brought to the notice of the Commissioner-General.

4.10 Customs advance rulings are issued in relation to tariff classification, customs value, country of origin of the goods or to any other activity to which customs laws apply. The beneficiary may be an importer, an exporter or a person or an authorised agent who has a demonstrable interest in the ruling.

4.11 Whatever the activity in question may be, a request for customs advance ruling must, of necessity, be in writing and include a laundry list of requirements in the nature of a statement of all relevant facts, the names and addresses of interested parties, the name of the port where the goods are expected to arrive or depart, and a description of the transaction in sufficient detail to allow the application of customs laws.

4.12 In addition to the above requirements, a request for a customs advance ruling in relation to valuation of goods for customs purposes must include the required information on an invoice, the terms of trade including Free on Board, Cost Insurance Freight, and a description of any relationship between the parties.

4.13 On another score, a request for a customs advance ruling in relation to tariff classification of goods must also include a complete description of the merchandise including the packing weight, the chemical analysis, the description of the goods, the production and expiration date, the name and brand of the goods, the physical description, function of the goods, composition of the goods, and characteristics of components. It must also include the commercial or technical designation of the goods, and where the goods consist of more than

one material, the composition of the goods by weight, volume and value of each component.

4.14 It appears to be the practice of the Ghana Revenue Authority, based loosely on the operation of sections 103 - 106 of the Revenue Administration Act, 2016 (Act 915), that a customs advance ruling may come in the form of a private ruling or a class ruling setting out the position of the Commissioner-General regarding the application of a tax law with respect to an arrangement or a proposed arrangement. As the classifications suggest, a private ruling refers to the outcome of a request by a person, while a class ruling refers to a publicised outcome of a request by a person in a specified class of persons commonly situated.

4.15 However, it seems to us that there is a significant difference between the binding effect of the private/class ruling regime and that of the province of customs advance ruling  for which reason the two constructs should not be interchanged, one in place of the other. In respect of the former, a ruling does not bind the applicant or any other person except the Commissioner-General in relation to an applicant or a member of a specified class. As regards the latter, a ruling is binding on the Commissioner-General only, in respect of goods for which customs formalities are completed after the date on which the ruling takes effect, or the recipient of the ruling only with effect from the date on which the recipient receives or is considered to have received notification of the ruling.

4.16 The OSP finds that Mr. Adu Kyeis cited bases for his decision are untenable, and the decision finds its anchor (if there is such) on no other hypothesis but one  that it was borne of influence peddling or trading in influence.

4.17 Mr. Adu Kyeis decision to render an advance ruling to the applicants by reducing the values of their intended imports between a range of 5% - 10% below the benchmark values was wrongful and unsupported by the requirements of the law for the issuance of customs advance ruling. Mr. Adu Kyei wilfully put aside the law by embarking on his own predilections.

4.18 Colonel (Rtd.) Damoah acknowledged the disingenuity of the outcome by admitting that the applicants did not meet the legal requirements for the issuance of customs advance ruling. Then again, Ms. Asomah-Hinneh and Mr. Etse Gadegbeku stated expressly that Labianca did not apply for customs advance ruling.

4.19 The admission by the officials of Labianca that that entity did not apply for a customs advance ruling belies Mr. Adu Kyeis stance and it vividly betrays all pretenses of propriety of action by that official. The outcome of the application

which founded the basis of the complaint was not and could not have been an either-or situation. That is to say, the application was not amenable to have been transformed to an application for customs advance ruling, should the application in its original form be rejected, as it was. This is because section 12 of Act 891 contains mandatorily strict provisions, which were grievously not complied with by the applicants  if the application were to be remotely characterised as any form of the classifications in respect of which customs advance ruling may be issued.

4.20 Our jurisdiction holds fidelity to the principle that where, as in this case, an enactment has prescribed a specialised procedure by which an activity is to be performed, it is that procedure alone that is to be followed, and officials cannot call into assistance their own proclivities to fashion an outcome. Consequently, as far as customs advance rulings go, it was as if the applicants had presented a blank sheet of paper before the Customs Division and Mr. Adu Kyei had no warrant to proceed.

4.21 This leaves us with Mr. Adu Kyeis contention that he based his decision on a letter dated 6 February 2018 authored by the Commissioner of the Customs Division at the time and the practical guidelines for valuation control by the World Customs Organization issued in June 2012, particularly at pages 22 and 23.

4.22 First, the OSP finds that the 6 February 2018 letter cannot by any stretch of the imagination be regarded as a lawful basis for the issuance of a customs advance ruling in the circumstances of the applicants. The tenor of the letter does not satisfy the pre-requisite dictates of section 12 of Act 891; and it cannot be characterised as an omnibus customs advance ruling  if such is allowable. This should have been quite obvious to Mr. Adu Kyei and any claim of lack of knowledge on this score sounds only in willful blindness.

4.23 The 6 February 2018 letter was, as stated earlier, authored by Mr. Isaac Crentsil, a former Commissioner of the Customs Division and addressed to the Acting Commissioner-General and copied to all Deputy Commissioners of the Customs Division and Sector Commanders intituled  Graduated Valuation visa-vis Benchmark Values for Frozen Goods. It states, in its essential part, as follows:

Please be informed that with effect from Tuesday, 13 February 2018 the following graduated valuation shall apply to frozen foods imported into the country relating to the quantum of the consignment per shipment and the value per kilogram vis-a-vis the benchmark value.

4.24 The letter, if it has any efficacy and still operable at the time in question, speaks for itself. At best, it may charitably be described as a practice direction in its specific context. Under our law, customs advance rulings do not come in the form of practice directions either. If the letter is upheld, for the sake of argument, its effect, to be applicable, is ascertainability and certainty of the quantities of goods per shipment and the value of a specified weight as compared with the benchmark value. That is to say, the understanding one gets from the letter is that the quantity of the goods must be known and the value per kilogram in relation to the benchmark value must also be known.

4.25 The letter defeats Mr. Adu Kyeis contention and it is contrary to his decision, by reason of the fact that the application contained no discernible and verifiable information to make it good for the purposes of the letter. In effect, Mr. Adu Kyei pulled the information from out of nothing. Mr. Adu Kyeis insistence on the rightfulness of his actions and his proclamation that he saved funds for the Republic is akin to a self-righteous declaration that he is an overly philanthropic and benevolent public official who perceives non-existent and scientifically unverifiable information on applications to render them fit for purpose.

4.26 Whatever be its original effect, if operable at all, the letter itself had been overtaken by events and rendered inoperable by the time Mr. Adu Kyei claimed to have founded his decision on its authority. In 2019, the Government reduced benchmark values significantly  thirty percent (30%) for vehicles and fifty percent (50%) for all other goods. This was contained in a piece dated 29 April 2019 and numbered H/TAR/1 authored by the Commissioner-General at the time, Mr. Kofi Nti. Acting on this order, the author of the 6 February 2018 letter, Mr. Isaac Crentsil, who was still Commissioner of the Customs Division, issued a memo to all ports and stations for strict compliance. Even if not stated expressly, the 2019 directive marked a clear departure from the 6 February 2018 letter. Even if the 2018 letter is applicable to this case in its original intendment and effect, it is most unlikely that the graduated valuations therein were meant to be applicable to the 2019 directive. If it were so, then there was the clear and present danger of unreasonable double-dipping by importers and exporters. And the OSP cannot accept the invitation to that startling conclusion that the Government intended to stultify its revenue generation efforts by instituting an open standing order of encouraging importers and exporters to brazenly undercut it.

4.27 Second, the OSP finds that the World Customs Organization Practical Guidelines for Valuation Control, June 2012 do not in any way or form back Mr. Adu Kyeis decision.

4.28 The guidelines are practical steps developed by the World Customs Organization in response to concerns of challenges regarding the control of declared customs values and tackling suspected undervaluation of goods. The guidelines are intended to assist members of the organisation in improving fair and efficient revenue collection. They are an offshoot of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Customs Valuation Agreement, which is applied by most countries; and which requires Member States (including Ghana) to implement and apply its principles for imported goods subject to ad valorem customs duties  that is, customs duties based on a percentage of the value of goods.

4.29 The concept of customs advance rulings is explained with general recommended procedures and suggested information to be provided when requesting a customs value ruling at pages 21 - 23. The guidelines are not intended to supplant national laws; and indeed, they do not derogate from section 12 of Act 891. Even if it is assumed that the guidelines have the force of law in Ghana on their own, Mr. Adu Kyei failed to apply the detailed practical steps and he refused to insist on the listed information required of an applicant. In any case, it is totally unacceptable for Mr. Adu Kyei to set aside and ignore section 12 of Act 891 and to prefer the guidelines to the Customs Act as his source of his authority.

4.30 The OSP finds, that Mr. Adu Kyeis decision to issue customs advance ruling to the applicants, resulted in a short collection of or shortfall in revenue in the amount of One Million Seventy-Four Thousand cedis Six Hundred and TwentySeven cedis Fifteeen pesewas (GHC1,074,627.15) from a total of five hundred and thirty-one (531) declarations in respect of Labianca. Therefore, it lies ill in Mr. Adu Kyeis mouth to claim that he saved the Republic financial loss by his conduct; and his claimed bases for his decision are unsupportable afterthought.

4.31 The OSP finds that though Colonel (Rtd.) Damoah sought to distance himself from Mr. Adu Kyeis decision during his interview on 16 February 2022, he gave his tacit approval to the decision and the determination stood to the benefit of the applicants. Indeed, Mr. Adu Kyeis decision would not have passed muster but for Colonel (Rtd.) Damoahs apparent approval. The halfhearted seeming recantation is unhappily belated and does not absolve Colonel (Rtd.) Damoah of ultimate responsibility for the apparently contrived decision.

4.32 The OSP finds no evidence to suggest that Ms. Asomah-Hinneh was or is a beneficial owner or officer of Rafano Frozen Foods Company Limited and Yoba Capital Limited. The OSP does not reckon that the circumstances of the case, as yet, warrants an application to the Court for lifting the veil of incorporation of these companies. However, the OSP cannot overlook the seemingly convenient

fact that a joint application was submitted in respect of Labianca and Rafano Frozen Foods Company Limited.

4.33 The OSP finds that there is strong evidence to suggest that Mr. Adu Kyeis decision to issue a customs advance ruling for the applicants was procured through influence peddling or trading of influence by Ms. Asomah-Hinneh by employing her position as a member of the Council of State and a member of the Board of Directors of Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority.

4.34 The OSP further finds that the conduct of Mr. Adu Kyei and the placid coddling by Colonel (Rtd.) Damoah portends an institutionalised culture of lighthearted unconcern regarding impropriety of action at the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority  which indicates a high propensity to engender corruption and corruption-related activities.

5.0 Directions

5.1 On 21 March 2022 the Special Prosecutor issued an interim directive to Labianca Company Limited to pay an amount of One Million Seventy-Four Thousand cedis Six Hundred and Twenty-Seven cedis Fifteen pesewas (GHC1,074,627.15), representing the short collection or shortfall of revenue arising from the issuance of the unlawful customs advance ruling by the Deputy Commissioner for

Customs in charge of operations, Mr. Joseph Adu Kyei into the Asset Recovery Account of the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

5.2 Labianca Company Limited complied with the directive on 31 March 2022.

5.3 The Special Prosecutor directs the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority to submit, on or before 31 December 2022, an Integrity Plan to the Office of the Special Prosecutor designed with the aim of preventing the corruption of the exercise of discretion by officials of the Customs Division, especially in respect of the rendering of rulings, to assure the effective operation of the Customs Act, 2015 (Act 891) and the Revenue Administration Act, 2016 (Act 915).

6.0 Further Action

6.1 On the basis of the findings stated in paragraphs 4.33 and 4.34, the Special Prosecutor directs the opening of a wider investigation in respect of the issuance

of customs advance rulings and markdown of benchmark values between July 2017 and December 2021.

7.0 Commendation

7.1 The Office of the Special Prosecutor commends the complainant for his public spiritedness and sense of duty.

Kissi Agyebeng

Special Prosecutor

The Republic of Ghana

3 August 2022
In an interview on North Star Radio in Tamale on Monday, August 8, President Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo rejected calls to reshuffle cabinet ministers.

In the last year, there has been a increasing calls for President Akufo-Addo to reshuffle and fire underperforming ministers.

However, despite having made no major cabinet reshuffles since taking office in January 2017, H.E Akufo-Addo has dismissed the calls to reshuffle his ministers.

He said those making the calls attempt by the opposition NDC to destabilize his government.

Many of them for me have done outstanding work. Their output has been considerable, and that is what I look at.

If the output measures expectations, then I dont have any strong reasons to heed the call. The calls come for all kinds of reasons; NDC wanting to destabilise the government is one. There are people who are also looking for jobs, the President started.

Reacting to his comment, Franklin Cudjoe, Chief Executive Officer and Founding President of IMANI Africa, says the president is right.

The policy analyst explained in a tweet on Monday, August 8, that the President may not have the menu to replace his "underperforming" ministers, possibly as a result of the Corona Virus pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war.

The President is right. No need to change the team. There are no substitutes. All of them are recuperating from Covid and a bunker in Ukraine, he tweeted.

He concludes Let us keep waiting.
The French government has pledged a new crackdown against illicit motorbike cruising by youths in suburbs across the country, after two children were seriously injured by a rider near Paris at the weekend.

Rowdy late-night races and stunts known as "rodeos" have become increasingly popular in low-income neighbourhoods in particular, leading to traffic and noise disruption that has been denounced by local officials and many residents.

On Friday evening, a 10-year-old girl and an 11-year-old boy were hit by a rider while playing outside their home in Pontoise, northwest of the capital.

French daily Le Figaro reported on Monday that the girl suffered a traumatic blow to the head and remains in serious condition at hospital, while the boy has a broken leg.

The accident came after a 19-year-old man was killed in June after being hit by a bike rider in the western city of Rennes.

Government slams 'glorification' of rodeos

Speaking on Monday from the southern city of Marseille, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said: "I have asked the police to step up their interventions this month," with a target of 10,000 controls nationwide.

Nonetheless the rodeos are often tolerated or defended as a gritty urban subculture that provides an outlet for disaffected youths, with an upcoming film, "Rodeo", that appears to glorify the gatherings and generated a strong buzz at the Cannes film festival last May.

"The government is very tough  not against urban rodeos that some depict positively, as if it were a spectacle  but against these criminal acts that have killed or seriously wounded women and children, as we have just seen," Darmanin added.

The interior minister highlighted that police had carried out 8,000 operations to break up rodeos in the past two months, leading to 1,200 arrests and the seizure of around 700 motorbikes and other vehicles including all-terrain "quads".

In 2018, parliament passed a law increasing penalties for the riders to up to five years in prison.

But France has not taken as drastic measures as Britain, where police are authorised to ram their cars into suspected criminal riders to knock them over, a practice known as "tactical contact".
Toma Imihere believes Ghana had no chance of getting favourable outlook from rating agencies because of an overall desire to see Ghana return to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Speaking on The Point of View, Mr. Imihere said, they were deliberately pushing Ghana into a situation where we would have to go back to the IMF.

He was remarking on Standard and Poor's (S&P) global ratings downgrading of Ghana's foreign and local credit ratings from B-B' to CCC+C with a negative economic outlook.

Before this, Fitch had downgraded Ghana's Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to 'B-' from 'B' and the outlook was negative.

Moody's Investors Service (Moody's) downgraded Ghana's long-term issuer and senior unsecured debt ratings to Caa1 from B3 and changed the outlook to stable from negative.

Mr. Imihere said the ratings agencies want to protect the interest of their clients in making sure Ghana does not go over the top.

I believe that because we are not getting our economic priorities right, I think we have lost the plot since Covid-19 came, he added.

Mr. Imihere noted that S&Ps rating, which came after the mid-year budget review, was further proof of Ghanas struggles.

After Ghana has still announced all its austerity measures, Standards & Poors effectively comes and supports what Fitch and Moodys are saying.

citinewsroom
DRC President Felix Tshisekedi (left) and Rwanda President Paul Kagame in Kigali in 2021. - Source: Habimana Thierry/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

09.08.2022 LISTEN

Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) make for very unhappy neighbours. Both sides claim the other is set on bringing down their government, and violating past agreements and international norms.

Rwanda accuses the DRC of working with the Forces Democratiques de Liberation du Rwanda (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda) or FDLR. The rebel group's stated aim is to overthrow the Rwandan government.

For its part, the DRC accuses Rwanda of violating its sovereignty by supporting the Mouvement du 23 Mars (March 23 Movement, M23). The rebel group, along with multiple others , is active in the DRC.

A recent United Nations report supports Kinshasa's contention. The group of experts on the Democratic Republic of Congo detailed its accusations in a 131-page report. Kigali, however, dismissed the findings as false allegations.

Rwanda is a country of 13 million people and occupies 26,000 square kilometres. DRC, on the other hand, has 90 million people and covers a territory of 2.3 million square kilometres. The DRC lies to the west of Rwanda. The two countries share a border of about 217 kilometres.

Tensions between the two nations date back to the 1994 genocide in Rwanda when an estimated one million Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed . Many of the perpetrators of the violence fled to the DRC, at the time called Zaire. The post-genocide Rwandan government launched military operations in a bid to force the perpetrators back home to face justice.

Rwanda believes the DRC continues to provide refuge for those behind the 1994 attack.

The two countries have gone through two major wars and multiple skirmishes. They have also had periods of stability and trade growth. The latest tensions, however, are cause for concern . They risk destabilising the Eastern Africa region, disrupting trade routes and allowing for the establishment of opportunistic militia groups.

Read more: The UN is under attack in eastern Congo. But DRC elites are also to blame for the violence

The issue is on US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's agenda as he tours three African nations in August 2022. He will meet with Congolese and Rwandan leaders to negotiate for a peaceful resolution to the current conflict.

But, based on a decade of research into relations between the two countries, I do not believe Blinken's visit will to lead to any significant reduction in tensions. The most recent events are not new. Both nations hold old suspicions of each other.

How it started

Since the 1994 genocide, the Rwandan government has kept a close eye on DRC. While 4 July is marked in Rwanda as the day the genocide ended, it was a temporary pause.

After two years of inaction from the then Zaire president Mobutu Sese Seko, Rwanda went after those it believed were behind the attacks and were hiding in Zaire. It carried out military operations that triggered the First Congo War (1996-1997) .

This war had two objectives. The first was to disband the refugee camps that were hosting the remnants of the genocide perpetrators. An estimated two million refugees were forced back into Rwanda.

The second objective was the removal of Mobutu on the grounds that he was providing a haven for genocide actors. The Zairian dictator was removed from power in May 1997.

Within nine months, the war was over. With Rwanda's support, Laurent Kabila and his Alliance des Forces Democratiques pour la Liberation du Congo-Zaire (Alliance of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Congo, AFDL) took over power.

Read more: What M23's on-and-off insurgency tells us about DRC's precarious search for peace

But a much bloodier Second Congo War (1998-2003) soon followed. This was catalysed by two events. First, the dismissal of the Congolese defence minister James Kabarebe, who was Rwandan and largely responsible for conducting the First Congo War. Second, Congo's support for the remnant genocide forces, Armee pour la Liberation du Rwanda (Army for the Liberation of Rwanda, ALiR).

The Second Congo War dragged on for five years. It led to the deaths of millions of people. This was as a result of the actual fighting, and the increase in disease and malnutrition.

The lack of a quick resolution to the war resulted in various parts of the DRC being run by either militia groups, or the governments of neighbouring countries. Even allies during the start of the war, such as Uganda and Rwanda, fought against each other .

Eventually, the 2002 Pretoria agreement led to the withdrawal of the Rwandan military from Congolese territory.

Nevertheless, Rwanda continues to contend that Congo supports genocide remnants, now operating as the FDLR.

For its part, DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting Congolese rebel groups, such as the Congres National pour la Defense du People (National Congress for the Defence of the People, CNDP) and the M23.

Divisions in Kigali

The Rwandan government is divided on the future of relations with its giant neighbour.

One group of policy leaders perceives the DRC as a continual threat to Rwandan security. They view the Congolese military as being ineffective in combating forces stationed in the DRC that are expressly against the Rwandan government, such as the FDLR.

This group often dominates public policy decisions in Rwanda's foreign relations with the DRC.

But there's a second group that focuses on the economic opportunities of closer Rwandan-Congolese relations. They believe that Rwandan development should focus on the export of domestically produced goods to the Congolese market of 90 million potential customers. Many within this group believe that the economic benefits outweigh the security concerns, which they argue have decreased in recent years.

Following the 2018 election, which saw Felix Tshisekedi become Congolese president, relations between Rwanda and the DRC improved . This included increased trade activity between the two nations.

Read more: Tshisekedi's victory in the DRC is historic -- but controversial

It seemed for a while that the beliefs of Rwandans who wanted rapprochement with Kinshasa had the upper hand, hinting at a positive future for the two nations.

But in recent months, these hopes have been dashed. Once more, the dominant narratives involve allegations of DRC collaborating with the FDLR, and Rwanda with M23.

The two countries are likely to continue experiencing periods of stability and tension. Another major conflict, like the Congo wars, is unlikely, but the continual tensions prevent trade integration that would boost development and peace between the two nations.

Jonathan Beloff receives funding from the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

By Jonathan Beloff, Postdoctoral research associate, King's College London
Bawa Aminu Sumaila, Akuapem North Aspiring NDC Communication Officer

09.08.2022 LISTEN

Aspiring Communication Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Akuapem North, Bawa Aminu Sumaila, has said President Akufo-Addo led Government has failed woefully in managing the affairs of the economy.

On EMT Performance

Speaking to the reporter, he stressed that the Bawumia-led Economic Management Team (EMT) has also failed to provide better alternatives to government to put back the economy on track as expected.

He indicated the Vice President has rather turned himself into 'Digitization Man' overnight instead of the 'Economic Wizkid' Samira Bawumia claimed.

He called on President Akufo-Addo to as a matter of urgency overhaul the EMT to have competent members on board to help rescue Ghana from ditching.

Cash Inflows

Bawa Aminu Sumaila revealed that the Akufo-Addo-led New Patriotic Party Government has so far had over Ghc500 billion at their disposal but has not been utilised well enough as compared to Ghc200 billion the erstwhile NDC had.

According to the NDC Communicator, "Ghana's debt as it stands now is GHc393 billion as of June, 2022 from the Ghc120 billion the Mahama-led NDC left in 2016".

He jabbed the NPP for borrowing more than all successive governments but not being able to account for the monies.

Standard of Living

The Aspiring Communication Officer on the current living standards of Ghanaians was worried many people go through difficulties just to put common food on the table as cost of goods and services keep rising.

He complained many Ghanaians cannot even afford a single meal per day whilst paying school fees and other educational costs keep soaring.

"Cost of living has gone up due to the poor management of the economy led by the Bawumia-led management team. People cannot afford a daily meal, pay school fees and even have a meaningful life," he said.

Way forward

Bawa Aminu Sumaila suggested to President Akufo-Addo to reduce expenditure at the Presidency and also cut down his ministerial portfolio since they failed to offer any better ideas for managing the economy.

He also advised the Presidency against hiring expensive private jets for the President's international trips as it has over the years overburden the public purse.

He therefore urged Ghanaians to kick out the NPP come 2024 and bring back the NDC to help resolve the economic mess the country currently finds itself.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has said the government recognised the difficulties Ghanaians are facing and is determined to work hard to turn the economy around which has been much affected by COVID-19 and the Russian-Ukraine war.

Speaking in an interview on North Star Radio on Monday in Tamale, President Akufo-Addo said though the economic harsh ship had affected ordinary Ghanaians, the policies the government was implementing would bring the economy back to a better position.

The President urged Ghanaians have faith in the government as it was able to turn things around when it took office in 2017.

President Akufo-Addo added the government took the countrys economy from the lowest growth rates in 2017 and brought it up to one of the fastest growing economies in the world, therefore, he indicated that it would be able to steer Ghana through the COVID pandemic and the effects of the Russian-Ukraine war.

He was confident that the countrys economy would bounce back stronger, adding: since 2020, the government has taken some very significant, proactive measures to minimise the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic."

Ghana, according to President Akufo-Addo, recorded the lowest mortality rates in the world and one of the lowest infection rates because of the government decisiveness in making sure that the pandemic was, as much as possible, prevented from having any significant impacts on the people.

He said by end of 2021, the countrys GDP growth had picked up again to over 6%.

Unfortunately, the President said, Russias invasion of Ukraine has impacted on commodity prices, food prices, and freight rates went up astronomical. He said those indices were important in the management of the economy.

The Preisdent said that even though virtually all economies, great and small, has been affected by this catastrophic event, his government would not look for excuses but work hard to turn the economy around.
The Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) of Ghanas Electoral Commission (EC) is not a proper forum any longer under Chairperson Jean Mensa, a situation that has bred mistrust between political parties and the EC, the General Secretary of the opposition o National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Johnson Asiedu Nketia has said.

According to him, the EC, under Mrs Mensa, does not listen to IPACs advice on election matters.

IPAC is not a proper forum any longer, he observed, explaining: It has ceased to be the IPAC under Charlotte Osei, the IPAC under Afari-Gyan; it is now Jean Mensas IPAC and Jean Mensa has decided that IPAC should be a means of just the Electoral Commission informing the parties [about] what they have decided to do, he stated.

Speaking on the mistrust between the EC and political parties on the Class Morning Show on Class91.3FM on Tuesday, 9 August 2022, Mr Nketia said: The problem is not even with NPP, the problem is with Jean Mensa and the EC.

He explained: When the Afrobarometer survey findings came out and the national security strategy document also identified this mistrust, there are institutions in this country which have taken it upon themselves to try and do something.

One key institution which has the mandate to make peace in the country is the Ghana Peace Council. They wrote to us to meet us to discuss with the Electoral Commission with the hope that the IPAC will return to its original mandate, Mr Nketia revealed.

He continued: We met them, they listened to us, we put our case across and we got the belief that they were convinced by the argument we had made, so, they indicated that they will organise a series of meetings.

One, they wanted us to meet with the leadership of the New Patriotic Party and let us listen to these arguments and then when NPP is convinced, then they will move to talk to the Electoral Commission, then after meeting with the Electoral Commission, then all of us will meet again and then they ensure we get a solution, he indicated.

So, after the exclusive meeting with the NDC, they went and did an exclusive meeting with the NPP and then the next stage was to meet NDC and NPP and we have since met and the meeting was wonderful; everybody understood the point that was being made.

Then the Peace Council promised that the next stage is for them to meet the Electoral Commission, after that engagement then all of us will meet and resolve this problem but for close to nine months now, the Peace Council has not been granted audience by the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission. Peace Council has been denied audience with Madam Jean Mensa as we speak now, he bemoaned.

He said other civil society organisations have tried to meet the EC Chair, especially over the use of the Ghana card as the only identity document for voter registration but to no avail.

Source: Classfmonline.com
Former President John Dramani Mahama has said there appears to be no end to the problems facing the Ghanaian economy.

On the basis of that, he has reiterated his call for a national dialogue on the economy.

This national dialogue, he said, will bring the best brains in the country together to jaw-jaw on the best way to move the economy forward, as Ghana prepares for debt restructuring and negotiation of an International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.

Mr Mahamas suggestion comes on the back of the recent downgrading of Ghanas debt credibility from B-/B to CCC+/C with a negative outlook.

In a Facebook post, Mr Mahama noted: The steep depreciation of the Ghana cedi in recent days, clearly shows that the mid-year review of the 2022 budget failed to win back the confidence of the investor community and the Ghanaian public.

Unfortunately, he noted, no credible remedial plans have been put forward by the government to salvage the economy.

He stressed that a national dialogue on the economy, bringing some of our best brains together will serve us well, even as we prepare for debt restructuring and negotiation of an IMF programme.

Meanwhile, the government says it is disappointed by the decision by Standard & Poors to downgrade Ghana despite the bold policies implemented in 2022 to address macro-fiscal challenges and debt sustainability, which, it noted, have been significantly exacerbated by the impact of global external shocks such as Covid and the Russia-Ukraine war on the economy.

The government, in its response through a statement released by the Finance Ministry, said it will continue to be proactive in addressing the impact of external and domestic headwinds on the economy and on the lives and livelihoods of Ghanaians.

The government said it has implemented key revenue and expenditure measures, including the 30% cut in discretionary expenditures.

The delays in the passage of key revenue measures introduced in the 2022 budget affected revenues performance in the first half of the year, the statement explained.

However, it said all the revenue measures introduced in the 2022 budget, including the review of the MDA fees and charges bill, the tax exemption bill, and the e-levy bill, have now been promulgated by parliament.

These fiscal measures, the statement noted, are now in full implementation mode to support our fiscal and debt sustainability.

The government said it is committed and is confident that it will successfully emerge from these challenges in the shortest possible time.

Source: Classfmonline.com
MAINTENANCE OF morale is the maintenance of cheerfulness, confidence and zeal, especially in the face of battle. Morale is a positive state of mind derived from inspired leadership. Usually, the morale of human beings reduces as time passes and events unfold. That is why the morale of younger people is usually higher than the morale of older people. It is easy to lose the morale as you take up the fight to follow the Lord in the ministry. To maintain morale is to maintain zeal, enthusiasm, interest and confidence in something.

And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:

And THEY SPAKE UNTO ALL THE COMPANY OF THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, SAYING, THE LAND, WHICH WE PASSED THROUGH TO SEARCH IT, IS AN EXCEEDING GOOD LAND. IF THE LORD DELIGHT IN US, THEN HE WILL BRING US INTO THIS LAND, AND GIVE IT US; A LAND WHICH FLOWETH WITH MILK AND HONEY.

Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not.

Numbers 14:6-9

Wars are won or lost by weakening the morale of the enemy. That is why maintaining the morale of the group is key to winning a battle. Joshua and Caleb are famous for their speech in which they sought to stabilise the congregation and encourage them to enter the Promised Land. They knew that without encouragement and zeal, no one would be interested in entering the Promised Land. Without enthusiasm and zeal, you cannot do much for God. People must be happy to work for God. One day a brother remarked to me, You make working for God exciting. Everyone is happy to be around and to be doing something. Without this positive feeling, negative thoughts quickly take over the hearts and minds of the team.

A good general knows how to raise the morale of the army. You must get the army to think less about themselves and more about what they are involved with. Motivate the troops and maintain their morale by making them think less about themselves and more about their hated enemy. You can raise the morale in the army of God's people by making them think less about themselves and more about the lost. You can raise the morale of the troops by talking to them.

Many leaders are famous for their speeches that raised the morale of their people. Leaders like Napoleon Bonaparte, Winston Churchill, Martin Luther King, Ronald Reagan and Barrack Obama are famous for their motivational speeches. Leaders who do not speak to their troops fail to raise the morale of their troops. You must rise up and speak to your people! You must encourage them and tell them that it will be well! The morale of the people who are following you is very important. Remember that your failure to raise their morale is your failure to lead.

Julius Caesar and the Maintenance of Morale

Julius Caesar was a famous general who won many battles on behalf of Rome. His most famous wars were fought in Gaul (France) and Britain. The Roman army was originally a part-time army. Many of the soldiers were farmers who would return to their original jobs after fighting in the Roman wars. Indeed, the armies of Rome had been run as a lay army before the time of Julius Caesar.

Julius Caesar changed all that by creating a professional organization with long terms of service far from home.

One of the things that Julius Caesar did was to boost the morale of his troops by promising the soldiers some land on which they could farm when they returned home. The soldiers were encouraged to fight in the Roman wars, knowing that when they returned home, they would have land to farm on. This idea, to pay soldiers with land was a clever idea that greatly boosted the morale of Julius Caesar's soldiers. The high morale of Julius Caesar's troops contributed greatly to his success as a general.

You must be able to maintain zeal in times of crises. Crises have the greatest ability to reduce your zeal and confidence. If you do not maintain the morale of the troops, you are likely to lose your war. Indeed, many battles are directed at reducing the morale and enthusiasm of the troops. Many events are orchestrated by evil spirits with the intention of discouraging you from serving the Lord. Discouragement is the single cause for which most people leave the ministry. Maintenance of the morale is a very important thing that a leader must achieve

Culled from A Good General

[email protected]

By Dag Heward-Mills
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken setting out Washington's new Africa strategy at the University of Pretoria. - Source: Photo by Andrew Harnik / AP POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

09.08.2022 LISTEN

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken's whirlwind visit to three African countries is the second in less than 12 months.

In November 2021 he visited key U.S. regional partners Senegal, Kenya and Nigeria.

In South Africa  the first stop on this trip  Blinken unveiled the U.S Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa , marking a remarkable paradigmatic shift in America's engagement with Africa.

Why do I call the new strategy a paradigmatic shift?

First, it sets a positive tone for US engagement with Africa. Previous US strategies began from the premise that Africa was not a strategic actor in the broad scheme of American foreign policy.

This strategy is different. It starts from the assumption that Africa is a core priority of US foreign policy.

This guiding assumption frames the fundamental commitment to working together toward common aspirations in the advancement of a shared agenda.

The tone is matched by the emphasis on African agency. And the ability of the continent to lead and participate effectively in decisions when it comes to economic, political and military engagements.

But, first some reflections on Blinken's three-country visit.

Significance of three-country stopovers

The visit to South Africa underscored US interest in re-engaging the South African government within the context of the US-South Africa Strategic Dialogue framework. This was crafted by the Barack Obama administration in 2010 to deepen the relationship between the two sides.

The dialogue provides a forum for both partners to review common aspirations and objectives while also addressing persisting disagreements. But it was interrupted by the Donald Trump administration as well as the onset of the COVID-19 crisis.

South Africa is one of the few African countries with this kind of strategic partnership with the US. The forum therefore reinforces South Africa as an African actor that Washington takes seriously. This is despite differences which both partners should manage amicably.

Hopefully, the Blinken delegation may have had the opportunity to cautiously raise concerns about the instability and disarray in the governing African National Congress (ANC) coalition. This has had a detrimental impact on South Africa's stature in foreign policy. In Africa and globally.

In the DRC and Rwanda, Blinken will confront the unending conflicts in the region. These have decimated lives and communities, frustrated international and regional stabilisation efforts, and consigned the Great Lakes region to global marginality. This is despite its abundant resources .

Bilateral, regional, and international efforts to resolve the root cause of the problem  the antagonism between the DRC and Rwanda  have failed. They need the injection of US mediation to break the impasse.

Read more: Rwanda and DRC's turbulent past continues to fuel their torrid relationship

The government of President Felix Tshisekedi has made decisive attempts to mend fences with Rwanda's President Paul Kagame. But the two are incapable of resolving their problems while conflict persists.

Kagame will not cease his relentless military adventures in the region if the DRC and its supporters cannot eliminate insurgent Hutu rebels implicated in the 1994 genocide.

In addition, neither the DRC government nor the United Nations Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) seem able to marshal the resources to be able to pacify the eastern DRC sufficiently to address Kagame's concerns .

It is going to require US diplomatic dexterity and a sustained economic and political re-commitment to resolve this 30-year-old crisis. A start may be a US-led military force composed of new military contingents from various countries. This could be bolstered by a bold US commitment against authoritarian and autocratic regimes in the region.

But Blinken is bound to face opposition from some of the key players .

The paradigm shift

The strategy outlined by Blinken has four key objectives. These are fostering openness and open societies; delivering democratic and security dividends; advancing pandemic recovery and economic opportunity; and supporting conservation, climate adaptation and just energy transition (pp. 7-10).

An innovative idea is the involvement of the US International Development Agency (USAID) on the education front. What's been tabled is that US academic institutions and the private sector provide online courses for African students. Subjects could include science, technology, engineering and Maths (STEM) (p.16).

The strategy also emphasises digital democracy, the centrality of cities, and incorporation of African American diaspora in US-Africa relations.

Beyond these, the four objectives capture the continuity of policies that past administrations have articulated.

The change prescribed in the strategy, therefore, is in tone rather than substance.

Third, sensitivities to race play a dominant role in the strategy, reflective of the convergence of Africanists and African Americans in the Biden administration and its Africa policy.

Throughout the document, there is mention of placing people of colour at the heart of US-Africa relations as well as

recognizing the historical and ongoing connections between addressing racial justice and equality in Sub-Saharan Africa and the United States (p.12).

Equally germane, the strategy acknowledges past criticisms of US training and support for African militaries that launch coups against civilian regimes and abuse human rights.

Finally, the strategy is cleverly articulated to undercut critics who often invoke US competition with China and Russia in Africa as the main driver of engagement with Africa. The strategy poignantly addresses this issue. It states:

the United States has an abiding interest in ensuring that the region remains open, and accessible to all, and that governments and publics are able to make their own choices, consistent with international obligations. (p.7).

Instead of being preachy and prescriptive with respect to African relations with other powers, the strategy presents African states with the enticing option of working with the US in the advancement of common values, mutual respect, democracy, and prosperity.

The strategy is a fresh beginning in US-Africa relations. But its outcomes will be judged on two factors. Will the Biden administration be able to negotiate implementation in the fractious US political process? And will African countries be able to seize opportunities that the strategy presents?

The December 2022 Africa-US summit in Washington will be an excellent opportunity to gauge responses to this strategy.

Gilbert M. Khadiagala does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

By Gilbert M. Khadiagala, Jan Smuts Professor of International Relations and Director of the African Centre for the Study of the United States (ACSUS), University of the Witwatersrand
GOIL Company Limited the nations foremost indigenous Oil Marketing Company (OMC) has upgraded its customer service to the royal status to ensure that anyone who enters its Filling Stations is served with dignity.

Mrs. Rita Addo, GOIL Company Limited, Zonal Manager for Tema said GOIL customers received the royal service at all service stations across the country as the nations foremost indigenous oil marketing company we serve Ghana with authentic fuel and other petroleum products.

She said at GOIL the customer is the center of operations in view of that staff have been trained consistently to focus on the customer as the center of business, at GOIL Filling Stations, we do not undercut, you pay for the required quantity, fuel is the best quality.

Mrs. Addo stated this during the commemoration of the second anniversary of the GOIL Afienya Filling Station which was monitored by the Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult) at Afienya, near Tema.

She said, At GOIL customers satisfaction is our priority and in an environment where fuel contamination cannot be ruled out, the only solution is to continue to maintain the quality of your products through regular unannounced field test.

She, therefore, urged the staff to continue to sell the right fuel and lubricants with the right quality and quantity, they should let their customers live the station with a simile on their faces, and customers should continue to patronize the stations out of the jurisdiction.

Mrs. Addo said as part of its commitment to ensuring the quality of the GOIL fuel and other petroleum products it has a modern Mobile Laboratory Van  a fully automated fuel quality tester that allows fast and highly precise analysis of gasoline, petrol, diesel, and jet fuels directly in the field.

She explained that the Mobile Laboratory Van is also equipped with a high-speed, compact, and robust fuel analyzer and particle counter to ensure that GOIL fuel products are of high quality always at the point of sales.

Features of the Fuel Analyzer and Particle Counter include a Full-Colour Touch screen, Laser Controlled System, Full Spectrum PLS Analysis Using Superior Processing Power, and Thermoelectric Temperature Regulation of Filler, Density Meter and Cells among others to provide rapid test results.

She said at GOIL we take our business seriously the Mobile Laboratory has the ability to measure and monitor the quality of fuel products at the Filling Stations.

This will ensure that throughout the process of sale of fuel product the quality is maintained which is key to ensure the fuel being delivered to customers continually meets specification, he noted.

Mr Yaw Asamoah, GOIL Quality Control Officer highlighted the need for customers to patronize GOIL Ron 95, as it has the strength and burns slowly and do not live carbon deposit in the car which washes the engine, every fuel had it pulling strengthen, Ron 95 was the strengthen and the color differentiate.

Every week we go to the loading company, pick samples, test and make sure the fuel send to the stations is the required standard by National Petroleum Authority, he said.

Mr Asamoah said modern vehicles engine are written Ron 95, when the required Ron are not used, the car would not function at it optimum capacity, because too much sulfur in the fuel would overwork the car, forming pollution, and rust, but GOIL sells low sulfur at every station.

As part of the activities to commemorate the second anniversary, the GOIL Afienya Service Station is organizing free eye screening, medical checkups, and many more services for the people within the community.
The Students' Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Ghana says it is working with the relevant authorities to ensure that students involved in the violence on campus are dealt with.

The disturbance caused by residents of the Commonwealth and Mensah Sarbah halls resulted in the destruction of property.

One person has since been arrested. In an interview with Citi News, the SRC President of the University, Prince Asumadu said no student found culpable would be spared.

It is about time we stopped these disturbances. The SRC has condemned the clash and this time around, it was an eye-sore because we saw things we didnt have to see. Its pathetic but we want to assure the university community that, those found culpable will not go scot-free.

The clash ensued after an alleged attack on students of Mensah Sarbah hall, who were on a procession, by students believed to be from Commonwealth hall.

The violence resulted in the destruction of property, including the stealing of the bust of Mensah Sarbah.

Relaying news of the arrest, the Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Lydia Seyram Alhassan, revealed that efforts are being made to ensure peace.

I commend them [police] highly. From what I see around, they are all over patrolling, the MP said.

A gentleman was picked up, and they are still working on him, she added.

The MP assured that a search for the bust was underway.

Together we are all working to ensure that we find it. I would do my part. Security agencies are also doing their part, so together we would work and ensure that it is brought back here, she said.

citinewsroom
General Secretary of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) Johnson Asiedu Nketia has accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for being insensitive to the plight of Ghanaians by failing to heed the calls for a reshuffling of his appointees.

President Akufo-Addo in an interview on Monday, 8 August 2022, during his tour of the Northern region down-played calls for him to reshuffle his appointees, especially ministers of state.

He said his ministers have done remarkably well and, therefore, there was no need to reshuffle them.

He made this statement despite the growing pressure on him by civil society organisations, opposition parties and some of his own party supporters to reshuffle his ministers because the present ones have lost ideas.

Reacting to the Presidents posture, Mr Nketia, in an interview on the Class Morning Show on Class91.3FM said he is convinced that the President is sailing against the wind and his move is leading the NPP into opposition.

Mr Nketia told show host Kofi Oppong Asamoah today, Tuesday, 9 August 2022, that I realise that hes saying the very things that will take him to opposition because he is sailing against the wind, Nana Addo is now sailing against the wind because everything he said yesterday was the opposite of what Ghanaians think, so if you have such a leader who is sailing against the wind then his days are numbered.

He explained that many Ghanaians, survey upon survey, have indicated that the country is going in the wrong direction. When they say a country is going in the wrong direction what does it mean? The leadership is steering the country in the wrong direction. We want to go to Aflao and we are headed towards Takoradi road, completely wrong direction, so if Ghanaians have said this, and they are saying that lets change direction and you are all over praising the driver that speed up we are on the right course what does it mean? It means that you are going further and further away from the wishes of the ordinary people.

Ive always said that when the gods want to punish people they first make mad. If anybody wants to destroy Ghana and is able to infuse wrong ideas into the head of our president, he doesnt need to bring people here to destroy Ghana, the president will lead the country into destructionbecause survey upon survey, public opinion says A and he says Z. Look at this idea of his reshuffle, even during their congress when he was speaking, their own party members were shouting reshuffle, reshuffle, reshuffle, NDC wasnt there and so if you now on a platform elsewhere and youre saying your ministers are the best, when your own party says your ministers are horrible, then what best can take you out of government than this? he quizzed.

Source: Classfmonline.com
U.S. massacres civilians in wars in the Middle East: report

Xinhua) 13:14, August 09, 2022

BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The United States has committed crimes by launching wars in the Middle East and surrounding regions that have caused mass killing of civilians, said a report released Tuesday by the China Society for Human Rights Studies (CSHRS).

Titled U.S. Commits Serious Crimes of Violating Human Rights in the Middle East and Beyond, the CSHRS report said that by rallying its allies to launch the Gulf War (1990-1991), the Afghanistan War (2001-2021), the Iraq War (2003-2011), and engaging in the Libyan War and the Syrian War, the United States has created "a humanitarian disaster rarely seen throughout the world."

Citing a report of the Brown University in the United States, the CSHRS pointed out that more than 174,000 people died directly in the war in Afghanistan, of whom more than 47,000 were civilians.

In 2003, the United States bypassed the United Nations and violated a basic principle of international law prohibiting the use of force to launch the Iraq War with excuses fabricated out of thin air, constituting aggression against Iraq, the CSHRS report said.

According to the report, from 2003 to 2021, about 209,000 Iraqi civilians died in wars and violent conflicts, and about 9.2 million Iraqis became refugees or were forced to leave their homeland.

Citing data released by the United Nations, the report also revealed that U.S. military intervention has claimed at least 350,000 lives in Syria, displaced more than 12 million people, and left 14 million civilians in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.

Noting that hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians have been killed in wars the United States waged or participated in, the report said those who committed the crimes "often escape accountability for their illegal and criminal acts there."

"The U.S. military troops' wanton massacre of civilians abroad undoubtedly constitutes a crime against humanity," it said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
The Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has inaugurated the Board of the Zongo Development Fund at the Jubilee House in Accra on Wednesday, August 9.

Dr Bawumia also administered the swearing-in ceremony of the eleven-member Board, which is chaired by Mr Seidu H Nasigri.

Addressing members of the board after swearing them into office, Dr Bawumia urged the members to "work assiduously with all stakeholders, to ensure that the ZDF continues to deliver on its mandate."

The Zongo Development Fund, Dr Bawumia noted, is very dear to the "heart of the President and government and all of us" because it was set up to bridge the development gap between Zongo communities and other parts of the country.

"Since the passing of the ZDF Bill and the signing of the Act by the President in 2018, the development of Zongos, have, for the first time since independence, been included in the national budget, and the impact is so obvious," Dr Bawumia said.

"As we envisioned, the ZDF has been a vehicle for inclusive, sustainable development for Zongo communities delivering projects such as the renovation and construction of classroom blocks, clinics, drainage systems, water systems, security installations, bridges, roads, entrepreneurial support, and educational scholarships, Astroturfs, among others."

The Vice-President continued that as part of the governments broader vision to widen opportunities to education, the ZDF's has prioritised investment in education.

"This has resulted in the construction of a number of modern educational facilities such as classroom blocks, ICT centres, and libraries in many Zongos."

"Also, about 40 brilliant but needy Zongo students are currently in Cuba training to be medical doctors, thanks to the vision of this government to ensure inclusive development for all."

"Not only that; the ZDF has also given out hundreds of tertiary educational grants to young people from the Zongos to pursue tertiary education."

Dr Bawumia reiterated the government's commitment to delivering more for Zongo communities "in our quest to ensure inclusive development."

"Surely, ours is not the politics of rice and sugar. We promised the people of Zongo and we are delivering through sustainable policy, with education as the catalyst."

"There is so much work to do to ensure that the ZDF spreads its development to more Zongos across the country," Dr Bawumia told the board members.

Members of the Board are Mr Seidu H Nasigri, Alhaji (Chairman), Arafat Sulemana (CEO), Ahmed Saed, Hajia Barkisu Seidu Bawie, Chief Dalhu S. Abdul Mumin, Sagnari Naa Amb. Yakubu Abdulai, Chief Manmoud Dandey, Rev. Dr. Cyril Gershon Kwao Fayose, Chief Alhaji Shakson Osumanu Issahaku and Ahmed Abdulai Abu.
09.08.2022 LISTEN

Our elders say that when a serious matter is about to manifest itself, it does not arrive bearing a flag.

In other words, no matter how serious the issue might be, it may creep into the publics consciousness; slow, silent, hardly visible. Until, like a virus of the Covid-19 type, it strikes all at once  everywhere; debilitating; multiple victims; sometimes leading to fatalities.

These fearsome thoughts entered my mind when I read a headline from The Chronicle newspaper, as quoted on the Internet, which asked bluntly: S***t In Sachet Water? Consumers Mad Over GSS Report.

According to the article, QUOTE: Social media (Twitter) went haywire ... following the banner story of The Chronicle captioned Beware! The Sachet Water you consume May Contain S***  t. Ghanaians expressed mixed reactions over the health alert raised by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).

Whilst others were utterly surprised over the development, [some commenters] claimed to have been in the know. Others also described the headline by TheChronicle as wild. [One journalist was surprised that] the development had now come into the public domain.

This menace (he said) was not only linked to the sachet water industry, but public water systems, [which] had been contaminated

Another person asked:: So why do we pay [the] Standards Authority? And district assembly workers? A third asked: Yall now realising? He alleged that he knew this faecal matter existence in Ghanaian sachet water five years ago. UNQUOTE

However, these questions seem to me to be minor, in relation to the problem of safe water in Ghana, generally, these days. The major issue is this: has galamsey not coarsened us to accept the pollution of the countrys water sources as inevitable?

If big rivers like Ankobrah, Pra, Birem, Tanoh and Densu have turned chocolate-brown in colour, and have stayed dirty-coloured for years and years, what guarantee do we have that they and their tributaries are still safe to drink, irrespective of how much chemical treatment is applied to trying to make them safe?

Here is another report which signals that the matter is trying to raise a flag to show the Ghanaian public that the problem is absolutely serious;

QUOTE: Home News General News 202208 Faeces In Sachet Water: Kwesi Pratt Urges Producers To Be Careful And Mindful (07-Aug-2022)

A 2021 survey has established that some sachet water products sold in Ghana are contaminated with faecal matter, raising questions about the regulation of the product in Ghana. Data gathered from the 2021 Population and Housing Census (PHC) has established that Ghanaians are increasingly depending on sachet water as their main source of drinking water.

Per data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), the sachet water national consumption average in Ghana ... ballooned from about seven million [CONSUMERS], that is, (31.7% [OF THE POPULACE] ) in 2010, to over eleven million [CONSUMERS] in 2021, representing 37.4% [OF THE POPULACE] , in 2021.

The Managing Editor of the Insight newspaper, Kwesi Pratt Jnr. [COMMENTING ON] this, has asked the Ghana Standards Authority to up their game and ensure that sachet water producers adhere to [THE] rules in production.

"We urge the producers to be careful and mindful of their production because it's about public safety. [The] Standards Board also needs to be up and doing..." he said on Peace FM's morning show 'Kokrokoo'. UNQUOTE (Source: Peacefmonline.com)

However, these questions seem to me to be relatively minor, in relation to the problem of safe water in Ghana, generally, these days.

The major issue is this: has galamsey not coarsened us to fatalistically accept the pollution of the countrys water sources as inevitable? If big rivers like Ankobrah, Pra, Birem, Tanoh and Densu have turned permanently chocolate-brown in colour, and continue to stay dirty-coloured for years and years without frightening us to death, have we not begun to regard the situation as the new normal?

What guarantee do we have that the big rivers and and their tributaries (as used by the communities they serve) are safe to drink, just because an attempt is made to apply technical treatment to them?

I fear that it stands to reason to expect water production generally, in our current situation, to have become one of the most lucrative enterprises in the country. And we know that commercial success is sometimes built on cutting corners. Whenever I travel out of Accra, I am always offered sachet water, but I stopped accepting it ever since I drank some about ten years ago and had a tummy upset that lasted for over three weeks.

These days, I always carry beer with me whenever I travel. But, of course, I need water to take almost every medicine prescribed for me, so I am not safe, despite my caution. In any case, isnt beer also composed of about 75% water? And the bottled water I gladly use to take my medicine, isnt it manufactured by the same water-producing companies that manufacture sachet water?

As I pointed out at the beginning, serious issues creep up on us. Unless we come to regard the situation as a public emergency of the Covid type, and take drastic, or even ruthless steps to salvage our water sources and also police the manufacture of water by the water-producing factories, we shall begin to fall ill by heart without knowing why.

And even we declare a state of health emergency, how many well-equipped, modern disease-detection establishments have we got in the country, anyhow? If we decide to meet our health needs squarely by investing in the acquisition of personnel and materiel , how do we find the money in these IMF-consultation days?

You see, the true nature of our problem is that diseases carried by water are very many. They include cholera (also known as the dirty hands disease); diarrhoea and dysentery. Diarrhoea, though common and easy to treat in sanitary living conditions, can be deadly without medical care and clean water, since the rapid loss of fluids can lead to severe dehydration (say the scientists.)

Also on the list of frightening water-borne diseases are Typhoid Fever, E- coli, Hepatitis A and Salmonella. According to Wikipedia, [https://en.wikipedia.org  wiki  Waterborne diseases] waterborne diseases are conditions, 47 of which are caused by pathogenic micro-organisms that are transmitted in water. These diseases can also be spread while bathing.

Wikipedia specifies further that Water-borne diseases are the ones caused by pathogenic microbes spread via contaminated water. Transmission of these pathogens occurs while using infected water.,,, Poor water quality becomes inevitable when water gets polluted with industrial waste, human waste, animal waste, garbage, untreated sewage, and chemical effluents.

In Ghana, of course, our situation is worsened by the discharge of mercury and other chemicals into rivers, as sand dredged from riverbeds and river-banks during galamsey operations. This type of water pollution is, currently, the main cause of dangerous water pollution in Ghana. And annoyingly, it is entirely man-made, which means it can also be man-stopped.

Our Government agencies have attempted, sporadically, to conscientise galamsey operators to realise the danger their activities pose to the very communities whose economic welfare they espouse to promote. They have used their political influence to persuade the Government that it should go softly-softly on galamsey suppression, and that they can transform galamsey from an illegal process into a well-supervised community mining programme..

But, the Government should be aware of our ancient saying that if you dont know what death is really like, just look at sleep!

It is these same persuasive and resourceful would-be community benefactors who have used every method possible to embarrass the Government by defeating all its announced objectives, as regards galamsey.

They clandestinely transport excavators and bulldozers in broad daylight to our rivers, to ruthlessly churn the riverbeds over and make the rivers dangerous to both man and beast.

It is also they who bribe  or intimidate -- the police and local authorities to close their eyes to the illegal transportation of galamsey equipment like changfans.

And it is they who use their political clout to import Chinese technicians illegally to engage in the more lucrative galamsey practices that bring money in very quickly, but also kill our rivers overnight.

It is a matter of gold or our lives.

Literally.

For money is sweet.

I mean gold so intoxicated King Midas (in the ancient Aesop story) that he asked to be empowered to turn everything he touched into gold. Meanwhile, hed forgotten that food has to be touched before it can be eaten. His greed led him to an early grave, of course.

Similarly, the influential politicians who are using all manner of subterfuges to persuade the Government to look the other way whilst they carry out galamsey disguised as community mining, will no doubt find themselves dead and their ill-gotten gains exposed to public ridicule. (This has happened to at least one powerful politician, who shall remain nameless, already!)

The only trouble is that these money-grabbing charlatans will probably take a lot of innocent people with them, when fate catches up with them!

Oh Madness! Oh Lunacy! Thy name is galamsey!
09.08.2022 LISTEN

Do majority of Ghanaians exercise their God-endowed brains properly as human beings worthy of respect and recognition? I am always in two minds when asking, or dealing with, this question in respect of black Africans in general and Ghanaians in particular.

I dont mean to insult the intelligence of any Ghanaian by this publication but if you do get hurt along the line, so be it. Then you had better cogitate about the content as a human being with grey matter but not sand, in your brain.

For want of quick buck, immense wealth, power and fame, the Ghanaian is ready to take to any irresponsible and criminal activity that leaves a question mark hovering over their head as whether they are actually a human being but not any of the wild beasts wandering in the jungle that has strayed home to dwell among humans.

How dare many Ghanaians decide to wait impatiently for the successful comeback of former President John Dramani Mahama to the presidency? Are you people mad? Are you people devoid of brain in your head but water or bricks?

Have you so soon forgotten how he treated you worse than the dirt on his bloody shoes; telling you barefaced that you are of short memory hence he wouldnt give a damn what you complained to him, and about him? Did he not tell you to your face that he would never listen to any Ghanaian who had never been, or was, a president of Ghana?

For your abundance of short memory or lack of retentive memory, you are now running to him with open arms like innocent little children without developed retentive memory to welcome him back to the helms of affairs of Ghana.

Let me weep for my country Ghana for teeming with people of short memory that are never ready to welcome selfless, visionary, competent, dynamic, dedicated and incorruptible persons as leaders to rule them but sikadicious, hopeless and womanizing Papanos.

If they had long memories, they will remember the nationwide continuous power outage, the gravity and destructiveness of which eventually culminated in the official coinage of dumsor for it in the dictionary. Ghanaians had to battle with dumsor for four solid years; culminating in the destruction of many companies, especially, the small scale businesses, to bring about the until now unresolved large scale unemployment of the citizens.

Treating all the above as nothing worth remembering, assuming without admitting of course, one thing at least must be of great concern to all discerning Ghanaians, expect those extreme NDC fanatics and John Dramani Mahamas sycophants, paid agents and assigns like Kevin Ekow Taylor and Appiah Stadium who have vowed to swallow hook, line and sinker, whatever John Mahama says, stands for or throws at them.

A sitting president that grants his numerous sexual partners, the so-called slay queens, full and unrestricted access to his work, thus, official, and personal mobile phones, is not good enough to hold the post of president. He risks divulging highly confidential state secrets to the public via the mostly impudent and rivalling sexual partners craving for his love, attention and money by his unprofessional and non-security conscious but reckless womanizing.

The evidence is obvious and already in the public domain as could be seen and heard from the underlying video that emerged following the feuding between Mzbel, the famous music actress of the song I am sixteen years and now married actress of Kumawood, Tracey Boakye.

These two shameless, jealous and uncouth women were fighting over married man John Dramani Mahama, who as both a sitting and former president, was shining them in addition to other many unknown slay queens to earn him the infamous name PAPA NO.

John Mahama for his little-mindedness can never be my president even if Ghanaians of short memory did vote to bring him back as the President of Ghana to come and steal more money and shine more slay queens as per his already known eyesore track record.

My resolute determination to not recognise John Dramani Mahama as my president were Ghanaians to elect him for the post in general election 2024 is because of his mountain of bad behaviours and irresponsibleness. This decision of mine is in line with, or similitude of, what God said in Hosea 1:9 - Then God said: Call his name Lo-Ammi, For you are not My people, And I will not be your God.

Why did God say that? Check to see why. Was it not for the same bad behaviour as in exhibition by John Mahama that he deplored?

As bad as NDC and most of their leaders are, I shall be compelled to offer them strategic advice, campaign for them, etc., if Dr Kwabena Duffour were elected their flagbearer going into election 2024.

My services will equally be divided between Dr Duffour and Kennedy Ohene Agyapong were both selected by their various parties to compete for the presidency in election 2024.

Kennedy is the action man with the clout to save Ghana from the suffocating official corruption, non-enforcement of the laws of the land, the wanton destruction of the ecosystem by both native and foreign surface miners (galamseyers) and all the ongoing ills that have made the Ghanaian look a complete fool and a slave in their own country.

Say no to visionless John Dramani Mahama, the tin god of that lazy Kevin Taylor who touts John Mahama as the next leader. He says John Mahama is only next to the late President Dr Kwame Nkrumah in farsightedness, selflessness, dynamism and dedication to develop Ghana.

Kevin Taylor is just a crook seeking to line up his pocket without wiping off much sweat, unlike other Ghanaian hustlers abroad hence always crouched down his computer and cameras churning out rubbish to feed to the ravenous Ghanaian public crying and hungry for John Mahama to come back to power.

Yes, the fearless son of Kumawu/Asiampa who proudly claims to be overflowing with wisdom as well as being the voice for the voiceless, has spoken! Take him serious or reject him, for that he cares!

THUMPS UP FOR KENNEDY OHENE AGYAPONG, DR ALHAJI MAHAMUDU BAWUMIA, DR KWABENA DUFFOUR & DR GEORGE AKUFFO-DAMPARE (IGP), his choice for the future president of Ghana.

Rockson Adofo

Tuesday, 9 August 2022
Economist and lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), Professor Lord Mensah has advised government to reconsider its free Senior High School (SHS) policy as a means to mitigate the economic challenges confronting the country.

According to the financial analyst, government ought to cut down on its discretionary spending.

He maintains that the Free SHS policy should be targeted at households who truly cannot afford the fees of their wards.

Government may have to look at expenditure lines, particularly, discretionary ones like Free SHS. They should look at how they can select the poor who are really in need or those who are in need of it, so we leverage on that investment to reduce the governments burden on necessary expenditure, the economist suggested.

In its sixth year of implementation, major stakeholders in the education sector and some politicians have called for the review of the free SHS program in order to relieve the government of the financial burden it poses in its current state.

The Free SHS policy is under scrutiny because of problems with feeding and to an extent infrastructural challenges.

These issues have led some schools to consider shutting down because they struggle to feed their students.

High schools have struggled with a shortage of food items because of funding and supply constraints.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has assured that the Free Secondary Education Policy will not be affected by the International Monetary Fund support the government is seeking.

While the IMF's Resident Representative to Ghana, Dr Albert Touna-Mama, has said the Free SHS policy will not be cancelled, he noted that there need to be conversations about how to make the policy more sustainable.

The Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has also said a review of the Free Senior High School policy remains a constant possibility.

By Citi Newsroom
A Tamale circuit court has slapped a seven-year sentence on Natomah Otabil, a social studies teacher of Kulpi Junior High School (JHS) in the Savannah Region, for sodomising 18 pupils of the school.

The convict was arrested on September 27, 2021, after some relatives of the victims reported a sodomy case to police in Salaga.

The case was referred to the Tamale circuit court for hearing, with the accused pleading guilty.

However, the lawyer for the defense, prayed the court for a psychiatric assessment, which the court granted.

Subsequently, a report of the medical examination conducted at the Pantang hospital was presented to the court, but was rejected by the judge.

A further examination was conducted at the Tamale teaching hospital and presented to the court.

In todays sitting which was heard in camera, the presiding judge, his lordship Alexander Oware sentenced the accused to seven years imprisonment with hard labour.

citinewsroom
A professor of public health nutrition at the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Francis Zotor, has expressed worry over the poor meals served students under the National School Feeding Programme.

According to him, most of the food served to the pupils is nutritionally deficient, a situation he lamented leaves much to be desired.

The government, for some time now, has been struggling to provide affordable and nutritious meals to students under its flagship programme due to financial constraints and inadequate supply of food produce.

Speaking to Class News on the sidelines of an ongoing AUDA-NEPAD Youth and Media Awareness and Orientation on the AU Year of Nutrition on Tuesday, 9 August 2022, Prof Zotor called on the government to critically invest in the school feeding programme or risk losing its purpose.

Source: Classfmonline.com
A political science lecturer at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) in the Central Region, has called on President Nana Akufo-Addo to change his stance on reshuffles.

According to Dr Ebenezer Amanoh Teye, the president is creating the impression that reshuffling his appointees was equal to a dismissal.

He said it should be made clear to the president that reshuffling is not dismissal.

He explained that reshuffling was a way of transferring appointees from one ministry to the other.

Dr Teye made these comments in reaction to the presidents statement that his appointees had delivered and that there was no need for a reshuffle.

Dr Teye was speaking on Accra100.5FMs morning show Ghana Yensom hosted by Odieshieba Kofi Essuman on Tuesday, 9 August 2022.

He noted: "Even though the president does not owe anybody an explanation for appointing and disappointing his appointees, a reshuffle is a way of re-energising his appointees to take up new portfolios.

In his view, the clamour for a reshuffle is not only coming from the rank and file of the party but the general populace.

Dr Teye noted that if the president is adamant about reshuffling his appointees, the ultimate judgement will be delivered on his party in the 2024 polls.

In his view, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta and the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Mrs Ursula Owusu-Ekufful, have shown beyond reasonable doubt that they do not deserve to be in office, as far as the management of the economy and the ongoing SIM re-registration exercise are concerned.

Source: Classfmonline.com
09.08.2022 LISTEN

The Oti Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Osei Kuffour Afreh revealed that 23 doctors have been posted to the region between 2020 and 2022.

He said out of that number only two (2) of the doctors reported.

Dr. Afreh mentioned that the doctor-to-patient ratio now is 1:29,000  a worry to the region. He stated that by October this year four (4) doctors will leave to further their studies, a situation he described as a big blow to the health service in the region.

Dr. Afreh made these revelations during the Oti Regional Health Directorate's Half Year Health Review Meeting held at Worawora at Afariwaa Lodge Conference Hall in the Oti Region.

It was disclosed that the review meeting that Oti was the only region to record zero maternal death in the country. Dr. Afreh said maternal mortality was on the high some two years ago in the region.

According to him, he initiate the 'Zero tolerance for maternal mortality' policy together with the team to eliminate it. "Pregnancy is not an illness, so we dont expect a woman who is giving life to lose hers," he added.

Meanwhile, Still Birth rate has increased marginally from 12% to 13.1%.

Dr Afreh noted that the persistent areas have been identified and plans are underway to eradicate this menace. He attributed the cases of Nkwanta North District to less staff handling a populous district.

He stressed that inadequate health workers with only one (1) doctor taking care of the whole district is a major contributing factor. He added that Krachi West has many island communities hence accessing health care is difficult for most residents.
Congolese journalist Pacifique Mahamba is in hiding after the police in North Kivu province sought his arrest. (Photo: Pacifique Mahamba)

09.08.2022 LISTEN

Kinshasa, August 8, 2022  Congolese authorities should drop any investigation into the work of journalist Pacifique Mahamba and let him work freely, the Committee to Protect Journalists said Monday.

On July 29, Congolese police forced their way into the office of the privately owned broadcaster Blessing FM in Goma, in North Kivu province, in search of Mahamba, a reporter for the station, according to the Observatory of Press Freedom in Africa (OLPA), a local press freedom organization, and Mahamba, who spoke to CPJ in a phone interview.

Mahamba told CPJ that he was not in the office at the time, and employees of the station called to warn him that police were looking for him. The police team, which consisted of three officers and one commander, sought to question Mahamba over a July 28 broadcast about alleged sexual abuse by a police officer, according to Mahamba and the OLPA.

The journalist said that he has been in hiding but planned to go to the Goma police station on Tuesday, August 9, to answer questions.

Congolese police should drop their investigation into journalist Pacifique Mahamba and cease all efforts to arrest him, said Angela Quintal, CPJs Africa program coordinator, in Durban, South Africa. DRC authorities should help create an environment conducive to independent reporting, not harass and intimidate journalists into silence.

In that July 28 Blessing FM report, Mahamba interviewed Jules Ngeleza, president of a local civil society youth group, who alleged that a police officer working as a guard for former DRC President Joseph Kabila had raped a 15-year-old girl, according to Mahamba and the OLPA.

Benjamin Kolobe, a Blessing FM technician who was present when the police arrived at the station, told CPJ by phone that the police officers said they were looking for Mahamba over that interview, and that the units commander was furious, saying, Mahamba thinks hes clever. We will eventually arrest him, wherever he is.

When CPJ called Ngeleza, he said police were also seeking his arrest over that interview.

On August 5, the police commander who led the team that searched for Mahamba at Blessing FM also appeared at the office of the National Press Union of the Congo (UNPC) in North Kivu and insisted to union President Rosalie Zawadi that Mahamba had disseminated false information about the alleged rape, Zawadi told CPJ in a phone interview. The commander also asked that Mahamba refute the allegation and implicate someone else, Zawadi said.

CPJ called the provincial commander of the North Kivu police, General Aba Van, but no one answered.
ECOWAS has embarked on a one-week training programme to strengthen the capacity of representatives from law enforcement entities from Ghana, Cabo Verde, The Gambia, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.

The E-Evidence and First Responders Training of Trainers workshop in Praia, Cabo Verde organized by the ECOWAS Commission within the framework of the Organised Crime, was on the theme: West African Response on Cybersecurity and fight against Cybercrime (OCWAR-C)."

The OCWAR-C project is funded by the European Union and the objectives are to improve the resilience and robustness of information infrastructure in the Member States; increase the capacities of relevant stakeholders of Member States in charge of the fight against cybercrime.

Mr Sediko Douka, ECOWAS Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy and Digitalisation, in a statement presented on his behalf underscored the significance of having a coordinated and collaborative approach toward a more secure ECOWAS cyberspace.

He highlighted the need for experts to share their national perspectives and experiences as this was an opportunity to build bridges and lay the foundation for cooperation in future partnerships.

A document obtained by the Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult) in Tema indicated that the forum was organized in collaboration with the Council of Europe and the INTERPOL.

Mr Douka emphasised the need to build human capacities in a consistent and harmonised manner across the region.

On behalf of the Secretary of State for Digital Economy of Cabo Verde, Mr Joel Almeida, Advisor to the secretary welcomed all participants to Cabo Verde and reaffirmed Cabo Verdes commitment to playing its part in the regions cyber ecosystem.

He indicated that the Cabo Verdes national cybersecurity strategy contains concrete implementation actions that are in line with the ECOWAS Regional Cyber strategy adopted in 2021.

Mr Almeida also stated that the national cybersecurity centre and CSIRT-CV are underway.

He also classified the forthcoming first ECOWAS Regional Hackerlab Challenge scheduled from October 10th to 12th 2022 as a great opportunity to bring the community together to spark interest in the ongoing challenges of keeping our region cyber secure and as means of finding young talent who are ready to be next generation of the skilful cybersecurity workforce.

Mr Ignacio Sobrino Castello, EU Deputy Head of Delegation to Cabo Verde, recalled the objectives of the OCWAR-C project, which is to support the strengthening of the cyberspace of the beneficiary countries and capacities in the fight against cybercrime.

Speaking on the ongoing developments of the EU in Cabo Verde on cybersecurity and on combatting cyber-crime and on Digital Economy in general, Mr Casrello emphasized the need for enhancing cooperation between ECOWAS Member States and the ECOWAS commission and international partners.

He said the reliance on information communication technology is more pervasive in society with the increased use of personal devices across the region.

He said this has necessitated the need for law enforcement entities to develop the required capacities to ensure efficient investigation and handling of digital evidence is carried out to appropriate standards.

Prior to the in-person training workshop which consisted of mentoring and understanding the contents and principles of e-evidence collection for first responders, participants partook in a three-week small private online course to equip them with the knowledge and skills to design and evaluate learner-centred trainings following the INTERPOL training standards.
"Abolish holiday to commemorate the National Farmers Day as the period for the celebration was during the harvest season and no farmer would sacrifice their harvest, it is rather the non-farmers who ended up enjoying the holiday forfeiting its purpose."

Mr. Edward Kareweh, General Secretary of the Ghana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) has stated explaining that giving statutory holidays for the celebration of farmers day is totally irrelevant to the issues confronting farmers in Ghana.

The GAWU General Secretary, suggested that instead of making the day a holiday, governments could still go ahead and award deserving farmers while the rest of the population go to work to help the country save millions of Ghana cedis as productivity in the various sectors would still go on unabated.

Mr. Kareweh was speaking on the theme: "Ghana's Agricultural Value Chain," at the 15th Monthly Stakeholders Engagement and Workers appreciation day seminar organized by the Ghana News Agency's Tema Regional Office, which aimed at providing a platform for both state and non-state organizations to address national issues to enhance development.

The event also served as a motivational mechanism to recognize the editorial contribution of reporters toward national development in general, growth, and promotion of the Tema GNA as the industrial news hub, which was monitored by the Communication for Development and Advocacy Consult (CDA Consult) in Tema.

No government is ready to take it off because it is a public relations day for politicians to exhibit themselves at national, regional, and district durbars, he stated.

The GAWU General Secretary however called the government to review the process for honouring farmers, you cannot celebrate farmers with a holiday.

Mr. Francis Ameyibor, Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Manager explained that we recognize the excellence in stakeholder engagement, which we believe will assist us GNA and our stakeholders to deliver and ensure that society plays an active watchdog role so that institutions perform.

Mr. Ameyibor said the Agency was strategically placed as a credible news organisation that needed to deepen its relations with its stakeholders for mutual benefit and to advance the prospects of the agency and the country as a whole.

Other speakers at the stakeholders engagement were: Mr. Richard A. Quayson, Deputy Commissioner, Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice; Mr. Richard Kovey, a convenor at Campaign Against Privatization and Commercialization of Education (CAPCOE); and Mr. Papi-Paulo Zigah, Director of International Operations, Future Careers Ghana.
Calls for the resignation of Council of State member, Eunice Jacqueline Buah Asomah-Hinneh, intensified after she was cited by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for corruption-related offences.

An anti-corruption crusader, Vitus Azeem, for example, said Mrs. Asoma-Hinneh should not be in office.

This Council of State member should have resigned by now. If the leadership, the President and his executive are determined to fight corruption, that should be the case, Mr. Azeem said to Citi News.

He also wants the President to conduct deeper investigations into the matter to prove his commitment to fighting corruption.

Mrs. Asomah-Hinneh, who owns Labianca Company and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), has been accused of allegedly using her position to get a favourable decision from the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

These led to a reduction in her companys tax liabilities.

The Special Prosecutor has since recovered GHS 1 million from Labianca.

Mr. Azeem, however, was not optimistic that this case would amount to much.

The Special Prosecutor, like the former one, is probably struggling to do his best, but I am not sure if he will be given the necessary cooperation and the necessary support [he will succeed], Mr. Azeem.

Also speaking to Citi News on the matter, Frank Asare, the whistleblower who petitioned the Special Prosecutor, leading to the investigation, said Mrs. Asomah-Hinneh should as a matter of urgency be relieved of her position.

He stressed that the Council of State deserved members with better morals.

I hold the view that people who are members of the Council of State have high moral turpitude, and they should at all cost do things that will rather help the nation to grow, Mr. Asare said.

By Citi Newsroom
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in the Democratic Republic of Congo, on the second leg of his three-nation African tour that began in South Africa at the weekend, and is due to wrap in Rwanda this Wednesday.

Blinken's visit to the DRC comes as Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi hopes to set the agenda by highlighting recent tensions between Kinshasa and Kigali.

The DRC is currently experiencing a resurgence of hostility with Rwanda, that Kinshasa accuses of supporting the M23 rebel group which has been behind a spike in violence in the eastern Kivu provinces.

Kigali denies backing the mainly Tutsi militia.

After his visit to South Africa which began on Sunday, the US chief diplomat will reportedly be received in the early evening by Tshisekedi who  according to the Congolese presidency  "will not fail to discuss issues of strategic partnership between the DRC and the USA."

"The latest UN experts' report on the invasion of Rwandan troops transformed into the M23 will not fail to be addressed," it added.

'Shared determination' for a diplomatic solution

Speaking to RFI in Pretoria, Blinken underlined that "there are deep concerns about the violence that we've seen ... [and] the potential for that getting worse and spreading in eastern Congo.

"There's a shared determination to see if through our own diplomacy in coordination with other partners, we can help reduce the tension, reduce the violence and help put these countries on a path to both resolving their differences" Blinken added.

He also said that the USA is looking at what steps can be taken to address the well being of the people who live in the eastern DRC, stating that he would "have a lot more to say about this in the in the next couple of days.'

The "March 23 Movement" is a former Tutsi-dominated rebellion that was defeated in 2013, which took up arms again late last year, blaming Kinshasa for not respecting agreements on the demobilisation and reintegration of its fighters.

Human Rights Watch demands Blinken to 'publicly condemn' M23 rebels

A report by experts mandated by the UN Security Council details Rwanda's direct involvement, "unilaterally or jointly with M23 fighters" in eastern Congo.

Kigali denied what it call "invalid allegations" and has argued that it has a right to defend its territory.

Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch has called on Secretary of State Blinken to "articulate inconvenient truths" during his visits to the DRC and Rwanda.

The NGO says Blinken should and publicly condemn M23 attacks in the strongest terms and "warn Rwanda of the consequences of its support for M23".

"As in 2012, the M23 is committing war crimes against civilians," HRW said, adding that "witnesses have described summary executions of at least 29 people."
09.08.2022 LISTEN

The Commonwealth Secretary-General the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC has received a Lifetime Achievement Award and Justice Media from O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) in New Delhi, India.

On receiving the award, the Secretary-General said: What an honour to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award and Justice Medal from O.P. Jindal Global University in New Delhi in front of some of Indias best and brightest youth during their graduation. I say to the young and aspiring in our Commonwealth family, I am no different to you, if I can do it you can too. My passion and belief in the law has grown year on year, and my determination to deliver justice for all has grown too. The law is a tool to use in the defence of others and any young person who wants to join the law profession should know that it is a noble profession, yes it is hard and it demands everything of you but it is also very fulfilling and worthy.

Secretary-General Scotland is currently on an official visit to India from August 2nd-15th 2022, where she is conducting bilateral meetings with Ministers, high-level government officials, the private sector and charities. Her official activities have started in New Delhi, then shall she shall travel to Pune, Haridwar and Coimbatore.

Speaking about her plans whilst in India, Secretary-General Scotland said: I will be meeting people throughout this trip who have the capacity to advance Indias interests and advance the interests of the Commonwealth. Yesterday I had a valuable conversation with Secretary (West) Shri Sanjay from the Ministry of External Affairs on the importance of India in the Commonwealth. I expressed our gratitude for India's generosity and support to vulnerable Commonwealth countries during the pandemic, including sharing much-need Covid-19 vaccines. I also expressed my enthusiasm for future collaboration and engagement on issues such as youth empowerment, ending violence against women, promoting peace and more.

Secretary-General Scotland and Secretary (West) Shri Sanjay.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in DR Congo on Tuesday for a one-day visit expected to focus on a conflict in the east of the country that has sparked tensions with Rwanda.

Blinken, on the second leg of an African tour, was met at Kinshasa's Ndjili Airport by Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula, the president's office said.

He and President Felix Tshisekedi will have a "one-on-one" meeting at the presidential palace in the evening, it said in a statement.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is seeking international support as it tussles with neighbouring Rwanda over an armed group, the M23, in the country's deeply troubled east.

The DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the rebels -- an assertion repeatedly denied by Kigali, which Blinken will visit immediately after his one-day stay in Kinshasa.

Tshisekedi "will not fail to raise the questions of strategic partnership between the DRC and the USA", the presidential office said in a statement on Monday.

The M23 -- for "March 23 Movement" -- is a primarily Congolese Tutsi group.

It first leapt to prominence in 2012 when it briefly captured the eastern DRC city of Goma before a joint Congolese-UN offensive drove it out.

After lying mostly dormant for years, the rebel group resumed fighting late last year, seizing the strategic town of Bunagana on the Ugandan border in June and prompting thousands of people to flee their homes.

Kinshasa and Kigali have had strained relations since the mass influx of Rwandan Hutus accused of slaughtering Tutsis during the 1994 Rwanda genocide.

Relations began to thaw after Tshisekedi took office in 2019 but the M23's resurgence has revived tensions.

The M23 is just one of scores of armed groups that roam eastern DRC, many of them a legacy of two regional wars that flared late last century.

One of the bloodiest militias is the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) -- an organisation that the Islamic State group describes as its "Central Africa Province" affiliate.

The State Department placed the ADF on its list of IS-linked "terrorist" organisations in March 2021.

On the eve of Blinken's swing through the DRC and Rwanda, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged him to condemn the M23 attacks and press Rwanda on its rights record, which included a "brutal" crackdown on dissent.

Blinken arrived from South Africa, where he said the United States was seeking a "true partnership" with Africa and was not vying with other powers for influence on the continent.
The advent of global terrorist networks represents a challenge to players in the Hotel and Hospitality industry as emerging political risks has evolved.

Terrorist networks have different motivations, strategies, tactics and organizational structures than their secular and ethnic-separatist predecessors in the past.

They have shown themselves adaptive, resilient,= and capable of striking targets of strategic and symbolic importance in global business.

To that end, the Central Regional branch of the Ghana Hotels Association (GHA) has expressed the critical need for members to put in place pragmatic measures to ward off such threats.

Furthermore, the Central Regional branch of the Association in collaboration with the Central Regional Police Command will on Friday, August 19, engage members to build their capacity against the emerging threats.

Mr Tanko Abdulai Ibrahim, the Events and Marketing officer for the Association told the media the forum will among others discuss the role of hotels in mitigating terrorism to make hotels safer and more secure for guests, staff and the general public.

The participants would be taken through general threats particularly organised crime, industrial espionage in private lives as well as extremist attacks such as terrorism, violence or vandalism.

It would be held on the theme "Mitigating Terrorism; the Role of Hotels".

Mr Ibrahim stated that it had become more obvious for hotels to adapt to contemporary security technologies and measures as terrorism and radicalism continue to intensify amidst global economic complexities.

"In recent times, many security analysts and security agencies in the country have all issued warnings and raised the red flags of the potential security threats to the country.

"The government in acting proactively, launched a campaign dubbed See Something, Say Something to get the citizens involved in the fight against security threats," he said.

He indicated that the Hotels Association represented the national pulse of the hotel industry in the country, accordingly, it was imperative that hotels provided the platform for the discussion of issues related to mitigating terrorism in the country.

More so, insecurity had a direct negative impact on businesses, he said, adding that "the first step in ensuring the security and safety of our guests is hinged on protecting hotel investments."

He stressed, "We need to gain some knowledge and understanding of terrorism related matters and how we can contribute to mitigating those threats as hoteliers."
09.08.2022 LISTEN

In the quest to eliminate random and frequent departures by students from the school grounds to use washroom facilities in neighboring houses and unsanitary locations, the Antwi Mensah and Family Foundation has cut sod to build two (2) modern washroom facilities to serve the Kindergarten, Primary and Junior High School pupils of the Ejisu Roman Catholic school in the Ashanti Region.

The two facilities contain a total of 16 (sixteen) Water Closet (WC) stalls  5 (five) stalls in the Kindergarten building and 11 (eleven) stalls in the Primary and JHS building. The stalls are sub-divided into female students, male students, and staff. The kindergarten building has a common shower for the male and female students, and the female section of the Primary and JHS building has a changing room for the older female students.

Situated in the heart of Ejisu, this will be the first time the school with a population of 1,200 will have access to a Water Closet (WC) toilet facility since its establishment more than 80 years ago.

Dr. Kofi Antwi Mensah, the Co-Chairperson of the Foundation and an old student of the school, at the ceremony said they realised that the school was in dire need of a reliable and clean toilet facility on the school grounds to enhance teaching and learning.

He said though the school has played a major role in shaping the lives of a lot of people who passed through the school, it faces infrastructural challenges, as many of its buildings are in a deplorable state. "It is unfortunate that the school has not received any major renovations in a very long time. This doesn't bode well for a school which has produced a lot of influential people in the society".

According to the Co-Chairperson, the facility was going to improve the hygienic condition of the school and the environment as a whole.

He also added that washroom facilities are the first of the projects lined up by the Foundation for the school. He said after touring the entire school and listening to the school authorities, they have resolved to give a face-lift to the other structures of the school and possibly put up a computer lab and improve the existing science laboratories.

The Municipal Chief Executive for Ejisu, Samuel Oduro Frimpong lauded the Foundation for coming to the aid of the school.

He mentioned that the NPP Government remains committed to improving the quality of teaching and learning in basic schools, and, as a result has opened the doors for individuals or organisations who share in the vision of the Government to work together to improve education in Ghana.

Referencing the President's inaugural speech in 2017, the MCE said the "Let's be Citizens and not Spectators" mantra of His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was a call to energize Ghanaians to play active role by supporting government to develop the country.

The Ejisu Municipal Director of Education Kwabena Owusu also praised the Antwi Mensah and Family Foundation for the initiative.

He said, "I think this gesture could not have come at a better time. We are all witnesses to the sanitation challenges of the school which has really affected teaching and learning. I cannot hide my joy anymore."

He said the over GHS500,000 facility will serve the over 1,200 pupils of the school and will ensure that it is properly maintained when it is completed.
Atiku Abubakar is the candidate for Nigeria's main opposition party, the People's Democratic Party, in the 2023 presidential election.

He served as vice-president of Nigeria to President Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007.

Abubakar has had aspirations to be the president since 1992: this is his sixth attempt . He was on the ballot in 2007 and 2019, and lost in party presidential primaries in 1993, 2011 and 2015.

He was the People's Democratic Party candidate in the last presidential election (in 2019) where he garnered about 11 million votes (39%) against the 15 million votes (53%) of the winner, President Muhammadu Buhari. Total votes cast in that election were about 28.6 million, with a voter turnout rate of 34.75% .

Abubakar holds the traditional title of Wazirin Adamawa in his home state of Adamawa, northeast Nigeria. The title symbolises the office of a prime minister and it makes him a respected person in Adamawa. The 75-year-old is an influential businessman and one of the popular politicians who dominated politics after Nigeria's return to civil rule in 1999.

Although with origins from Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria, Abubakar was born into a Fulani family in 1946 in Jada, Adamawa State. He was in the Nigerian Customs, a para-military agency, before going into business and politics after his retirement in 1989 .

Abubakar is clearly a strong contender for Nigeria's presidency in the 2023 elections. He has the political dexterity and experience to compete with other strong candidates. But there are many obstacles in the way of his life-long ambition of becoming Nigeria's president.

Political philosophy

His political philosophy is both a strength and weakness.

A careful observation shows that Abubaker's political actions since 1999 feature clientelism, realism and neoliberalism. This is not peculiar to him. It is prevalent in Nigeria, as our research shows .

Clientelism is a brand of politics that involves the exchange of material and non-material items for political support, often at the expense of the majority. Abubakar has used his abundant wealth to garner support.

Months before the presidential primaries, Abubakar boasted that he had never failed to get his party's ticket and would get it again. Against other strong aspirants, he still won. Newspaper reports suggested that delegates received thousands of dollars for his emergence as his party's candidate.

Abubakar is a political realist . He does not hide his ambition to become the president. And he uses every means to achieve it. That includes defection to political parties at different periods and allegedly buying votes to secure a party's ticket. He also plays ethnic politics by going with political zoning when it favours him and dropping it when it doesn't.

In 2011, Abubakar supported power rotation between the country's northern and southern regions. At the time, he stood to benefit from it, as a northern candidate. In 2022, now that people believe it's the turn of southern elites to be in power, he is against the rotation idea.

He has also in the past exploited the political mood of the nation on issues such as political restructuring. Political restructuring  devolving power to the states  seems to gain popularity in the southern region following claims that the power structure favours the northern elites.

Abubakar fully embraces the principles of neoliberalism based on market fundamentalism. He believes the best way to revive Nigeria's dying economy is for the state to withdraw, leaving it to the private sector to lead.

Neoliberalism is an ideology and policy model that emphasises the value of free market competition. Abubakar demonstrated his belief in a market-oriented economy when he managed Nigeria's privatisation programme as vice-president from 1999 to 2007.

Political strengths

Abubakar has built an extensive political network across the nation. He once commanded the loyalty of more state governors than his principal, President Obasanjo.

His ability to easily secure the presidential ticket of major political parties shows how strong he is politically.

With 30 years of involvement in presidential elections, he is the most experienced among the presidential candidates.

Money matters in Nigerian politics, and Abubakar has resources to compete with any candidate, including those from the ruling party who have access to public funds.

Being a northerner may also favour his candidature, given that the region produces the most votes among regions in federal elections. In an August 2022 update on voter registration , northwest has 22.67 million voters (23.5%) out of 96.2 million.

There are five other geopolitical zones in Nigeria. His two major opponents are candidates from southern Nigeria. The southern region has about 45% of registered voters based on the new figures from the electoral commission. The northern region accounts for approximately 55%. This shows that the southern votes would be split between the two southern candidates which might work in Abubakar's favour.

Other considerations may neutralise this factor, though.

Challenges facing his candidature

Some Nigerian voters no longer seem excited about Abubakar's candidature.

The fact that he only appears during electoral seasons to contest for the presidential election and withdraws to his base in Dubai after losing does not convince the public that he holds the nation's interests at heart.

He is further viewed as a representative of the old order, embodying gerontocracy and corruption. Some Nigerians view these as the bane of the country's development. His public service records are dotted with corruption stories. A 2020 report by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalism mentioned Abubakar and his wife in money laundering cases amounting US$2 trillion.

And his seeming support in the north may be challenged by other notable northern candidates such as Rabiu Kwankwanso, a former governor of Kano State. Kwankwaso is becoming a darling of the northern masses.

His northern origins may also be a disadvantage given that Buhari is a northerner too and is on the verge of completing an eight-year tenure. Producing another northern president is seen as violating a power rotation arrangement that prevents ethnic domination.

Lastly, the People's Democratic Party seems to be embroiled in internal crisis since he selected his running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa. Party divisions could cost it votes.

As Abubakar prepares for the campaigns in September, he will have to prepare strategies to address the challenges.

Hakeem Onapajo 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.

By Hakeem Onapajo, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Nile University of Nigeria
Three years after a severe drought in southwestern Angola, people in the area continue to suffer. Hunger remains pervasive and they are still losing livestock.

In a recent report we looked at fallout from the extreme drought in the region in 2019. There was almost no rain for 10 years. This led to a humanitarian and environmental disaster. According to data published by Unicef in June 2019, around 2.3 million people experienced food insecurity as a result of the drought, and hundreds of thousands became malnourished.

Our research included interviews with local herding and pastoralist communities, local politicians, activists and members of NGO.

Our report attempted to unpack why the situation remains so dire. Rainfall continues to be irregular and scarce, making most local rural communities unable to survive the cacimbo (dry season) without relying on donations of food and water. Crops have failed and livestock lack pasture. Many people are migrating to Namibia or urban areas. This is despite the fact that the crisis triggered national and international responses.

The report set out factors that made the impact of the drought worse. These included the way in which the government provided assistance, as well as infrastructure failures. While existing transport and energy networks were breaking down due to a lack of maintenance and repair, the government's response focused on new, long term construction projects. These privileged large-scale farming projects over the traditional farming and herding.

We found that no solutions had been found to the impact of the drought and the suffering of communities. The reasons for this include:

dispersed and disconnected development and aid responses

lack of infrastructure repair

land exploitation through agroindustrial and mining projects

no serious consideration of the local rural communities' lifestyles.

We conclude that drought aid will not be enough unless these issues are addressed.

The interventions

In 2019, southwestern Angola became one of the hotspots of international climate debates , due to an extreme drought situation. Millions of people were affected, as well as millions of livestock.

The drought cycle had begun a decade earlier, with a succession of years with irregular rainfall patterns, as reported by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction back in 2016 . Local rural communities were already accustomed to living in arid and semi-arid conditions. But in 2019, the cycle peaked, and traditional survival strategies were no longer effective.

International organisations, such as Unicef , described the situation as the worst drought in 40 years. This triggered an unprecedented response from Angolan civic society, government and opposition parties.

First there were immediate campaigns to distribute food and water. The government under President Joao Lourenco also sponsored several programmes focused on water distribution and infrastructure. New dams and pipelines were built. It also refocused a financial programme designed to strengthen food security in rural areas towards immediate aid to local communities.

In addition, several NGOs focused on immediate, small-scale solutions. Small-scale water retention solution 'cisterna-calcadao' in Gambos (Huila) Ruy Blanes

Three years after the crisis, what has been the effect of the relief efforts?

What's left

During our research in the provinces of Huila, Cunene and Namibe we saw several different projects and interventions. These ranged from large infrastructural projects, in particular the Cunene River water transfer system , to local water access and retention systems such as the cisterna calcadao or livelihood diversification programmes.

But we also found that the level of humanitarian vulnerability and insecurity had not changed significantly. These were the main problems we identified:

Firstly, an unexpected factor added to the crisis: the COVID-19 outbreak. While the rate of infection among local communities was low according to government figures, restrictions had an impact. For instance, the closure of the Angola-Namibia border throughout 2020 and 2021 interrupted trade.

The immediate assistance programmes (food, seed and water distribution campaigns) were irregular and unsystematic. Several communities living in the more remote areas were left out. Water distribution projects began with large cistern tanks that were too big and heavy to reach off-track areas. Later on, a moto-cistern system with motorcycles carrying water tanks was introduced. But poor road conditions hampered this.

The role and capacity of local authorities (communal or municipal) was hindered by excessive centralism. All the major initiatives, such as the poverty reduction programmes and infrastructural development schemes, were designed and promoted from the presidential cabinet without sustained engagement with local authorities. All also involved painstaking bureaucratic processes.

A number of problems have emerged with the long-term projects. One example is the water transfer system around the Cunene River. Firstly, it faces an uncertain conclusion. Secondly, it could create further inequalities in the distribution of and access to water . In our visit to the commune of Oncocua in the province of Cunene, local communities were wondering why the projected pipelines didn't include their areas. In addition, the projects privilege big businesses involved in new construction projects instead of rehabilitating existing infrastructure. Examples include the Neves and Matala dams which hark back to the colonial period (pre-1975). Local communities historically organised their livelihoods around them. But the lack of maintenance has created micro-droughts in water-rich areas .

Aid and relief projects organised by NGOs provided immediate solutions. These ranged from the construction of water holes and pumps to the repair of water retention systems. But the response depended on external funding and lacked an overarching plan.

Large-scale agro-industrial and mining projects in the region have intensified the pressure on the soil and water resources, and interrupted or hampered the patterns of traditional pastoralists. As Amnesty International reported in 2019 and 2021 , these projects in Huila province led to traditional communal pasture lands being appropriated. This increased conflict.

The government's initiatives took place without the support or knowledge of local communities. This was particularly true when it came to the design of practical solutions such as the installation and maintenance of water holes and the development of farm plots.

In August of 2022, Angola will be holding presidential elections. As part of his campaign ahead of polls, President Lourenco has said that efforts to manage the effects of the drought would be his priority in the next cabinet . The announcement may seem like a positive gesture. But the fact that it is formulated three years after the crisis shows that the response to drought in southwestern Angola has, so far, been inefficient.

Ruy Llera Blanes receives funding from FORMAS (Sweden).

By Ruy Llera Blanes, Associate Professor in Social Anthropology, University of Gothenburg
African Union of Broadcasting (AUB) has named Jennifer Asiimwe, a journalist with the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) among the new managerial staff for the AUB's new Center of Content Exchange (CCE) in Algeria.

Other staff members of the (CCE) include Abderrahmane Khodja, the new Director of the Center. A former deputy Director of EPTV (Algeria's public television establishment) for many years in charge of issues relating to the broadcasting rights of sporting events.

Gisele Salome Nnemi Ngah was appointed deputy Director and Editor-in-chief of the AUBs Center in Algeria. Before then, she was the Chief of CRTVs Regional Station in Yaounde, Cameroon.

Imene Boussoura, then an engineer at Telediffusion d'Algerie, is the new head of the Technical Department. Her main task will consist of managing and supervising the technical aspects of the NOC (Network Operating Center) and the MCR (Master Control Room).

Audrey Kamsu is the new head of the Administration and Public Relations department. Before her appointment, she was in charge of the AUBs Network of Content Exchange, in Dakar.

Aside Journalist Jennifer Asiimwe are three other experienced journalists who will be working at the AUBs Center in Algiers. They are, Irene Gaouda Lyoum who is the AUBs Medias & Communication Officer in Dakar, was appointed head of the French Speaking Desk of the AUBs Center in Algeria. In the same vein, Bastos Alegria Pacheco was appointed head of the Portuguese Speaking Desk. Previously, he was working with the Televisao Publica de Angola. Samira Lefriki is the new Manager of the Arabic Speaking Desk.

By this appointment, the CCE in Algeria is gradually entering its operational phase, said African Union of Broadcasting (AUB) in a press release on August 4.

In the long term, the center aims to host integrated Radio & TV Production Studio and Control Rooms, Operating Offices and a Data Center.

The new managerial team composed of experienced journalists and engineers will soon take over the new AUB Center of Content Exchange in Algiers, Algeria.
Adequate beds undoubtedly is an essential component of quality healthcare delivery across the globe.

In this regard, strenuous attempts are made by governments, benevolent individuals and organisations to resource hospitals with enough beds.

Unfortunately, in the case of St Lucas Hospital at Wiaga in the Upper East Region, adequate beds is a major challenge in the facility's quest to provide quality healthcare for patrons.

Before now, the hospital which serves over 100,000 people from the Upper East region, certain parts of Burkina Faso and Cote D'Ivoire, had only 39 beds.

During peak farming season (raining season), the hospital becomes overstretched, thereby, forcing authorities to accommodate patients on mats.

Through the kind donation of Agricultural Manufacturing Group (AMG), the undesirable situation has been abated, at least for now.

The indigenous fertilizer manufacturing company has donated 40 beds with 10 more awaiting delivery valued at Ghc80,000 to the hospital.

Presenting the items, Mr Isaac Berchie Opoku, Marketing Manager of AMG, speaking on behalf of the Managing Director Mr Ernest Appiah, said the donation was inspired by the no bed syndrome which has bedevilled the country's healthcare sector for many years.

He was hopeful the donation will go a long way to improve health care delivery in the hospital.

The Northern regions constitute close to 90% of our incomes because that is where the chunk of our customers are, thus, equipping their hospital is worthwhile, Mr Berchie intimated.

Whilst, plans are far afoot to construct a maternity and children's ward in the area, AMG envisages to donate 50 more beds to other health facilities in the district.

We're vigorously doing these as our contribution towards the country's quest to achieve goal three (3) of the Sustainable Development Goals on health, the marketing manager emphasised.

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility activities, the company has constructed business incubation hubs and given money as start-ups to over 100 university students to start their businesses.

Also, the company has partnered the Ministry of Agriculture to provide extension services to farmers across the country.

Demonstration farms have also been developed in selected growing areas to demonstrate to farmers proper fertilizer application techniques.

Resident Medical Director of the facility, Dr Bismarck P. Lambon, in his remarks said, the hospital needs more beds now than ever because of the ongoing construction of female and paediatric wards by the community and some donors.

He revealed that the facility was built by a group of humanitarian Roman Fathers in the 1950s and was upgraded to a hospital status in 2019.

Father George, a resident father of the hospital, was full of praise for the donation.

He stressed it was about time the sick was treated with dignity in the country's hospitals.

Father George asked God's blessings on the company, promising the hospital's resolve to safeguard the longevity of the beds.
09.08.2022 LISTEN

All is set for members of the Private Newspaper Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) to go to the polls to elect new leaders.

Last week, the Election Committee assigned to vet aspiring candidates concluded its work to pave way for the upcoming polls on August 12.

The vetting was done at PRINPAGs 4th Sitting at the Secretariat on Thursday, August 4, in accordance with ARTICLE 10.0 of the associations constitution.

At the end of the vetting, Mr. Elorm Desewu who was aspiring for the position of treasurer was disqualified on technical grounds.

After the vetting process however, the 3-member Elections Committee by a unanimous decision disqualified MR. ELORM DESEWU who was vying for the position of Treasurer on technical grounds, part of a press release issued by PRINPAG on Monday said.

Ahead of the elections, the Election Committee has duly explained to Candidates going to the polls unopposed that there shall be a YES or NO votes.

Candidates are required to obtain plus fifty percent (50%) votes before they can be declared eligible winners.

CANDIDATES FOR THE POSITION OF PRESIDENT:

MR. EDWIN ARTHUR, of the New Independent (incumbent President) MR. DAVID TAMAKLOE, of Whatsupnewsghana.com (incumbent Vice-President)

CANDIDATE FOR THE POSITION OF VICE-PRESIDENT:

MR. MIKE ANTWI ADJEI, of the Ghanaian Observer

CANDIDATE FOR THE POSITION OF NATIONAL ORGANISER:

MR. EMMANUEL OPARE-DJAN, of the Daily Democrat (incumbent National Organiser)

CANDIDATE FOR THE POSITION OF TREASURER:

MR. ELORM DESEWU, of the Economy Times

CANDIDATE FOR THE POSITION OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS & EXTERNAL RELATIONS OFFICER:
A Political Science lecturer at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Jonathan Asante Okyere has implored President Akufo-Addo to listen to the cries of Ghanaians and reshuffle appointees in his government.

According to him, the President must begin to show an accommodating mindset and listen to advise from people in the midst of the current economic crisis.

The President listens to only himself, he should be more accommodative and listen to advise from other well-meaning people. If you really want to break the 8 as the NPP is bent on doing and you are not even listening to Civil Society, then you have a problem. Because these are the people who control the middle class.

Under this Fourth Republic, it is only under the NPP government that we have supporters in its stronghold always holding press conferences to complain of neglect. This is a very bad omen for the party, Jonathan Asante Okyere said in an interview with Kasapa FM.

The UCC Political Science lecturer added, I will not mince words, the NPP cannot break the 8 with such behavior from the President. The very people he has to listen to, are the very people that hes rather condemning and ridiculing and they will show you where power lies.

Speaking to North Star Radio in Tamale on Monday, August 8, the President explained why reshuffling may not be an option in his government.

According to him, most of his appointees have performed well.

The President said the calls for a reshuffle are being fueled by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) just to destabilise his government.

Many of them for me have done outstanding work. Their output has been considerable, and that is what I look at.

If the output measures expectations, then I dont have any strong reasons to heed the call. The calls come for all kinds of reasons; NDC wanting to destabilise the government is one. There are people who are also looking for jobs, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo shared.

Today, former President John Dramani Mahama has lamented over the latest downgrade of the countrys debt credibility from B-/B to CCC+/C with a negative outlook.

In a post on his Facebook page, the opposition party leader has called for a national dialogue to help revive the economy.

A national dialogue on the economy, bringing some of our best brains together will serve us well, even as we prepare for debt restructuring and negotiation of an IMF programme, John Dramani Mahama posted.
09.08.2022 LISTEN

Media personality and human rights activist, Josephine Oppong-Yeboah, says there is no need to rush in making the Ghana Card the only acceptable identification card in Ghana.

She thinks that authorities should not rush to outlaw all other identification cards.

For her, authorities need to exercise some patience in order to capture all Ghanaians in the system.

Speaking in an interview, Ms Oppong-Yeboah said any attempt to make the Ghana Card the only acceptable identification for business transactions in the country will deny many citizens access to certain basic social services.

She believes that even though a number of Ghanaians have acquired the Ghana Card, many are yet to get theirs due to the delays in the issuance of the cards.

"You suffer to get voters identification card and now we are told that without the Ghana Card, you cannot even open a bank account," she bemoaned the situation, adding "If all other national identification cards are no longer useful, why do continue to waste resources on them?"

Ms Oppong-Yeboah said it was about time duty bearers critically examined the issues before they are rolled out in order not to bring any untold hardships on the very people whose interest they serve.

Many people have not been able to even register their SIM cards all because they dont have Ghana Cards and its not easy for people to get the Ghana Cards, she observed, adding Why cant we make the system easier for people to get the Ghana card?

She also called on the National Identification Authority (NIA) to look into some of the allegations some registrants have made against some staff of the authority with regard to the registration process.

Some people have complained of having to pay monies to the registration officials in order to get their cards done for them. We need to investigate all these allegations because if they are only attending to those who claimed to have paid monies, what happens to those who dont pay, Ms Oppong-Yeboah quizzed.

She added, We should not allow only a few selfish individuals to frustrate national efforts. Every Ghanaian citizens must be treated equally and fairly. If some NIA officials are deliberately frustrating the process so that those who are affected by the system will pay the bribes, let us fish them out and punish."
Guinea's junta-appointed government has dissolved the country's leading opposition movement, the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC), under a decree dated Saturday.

An alliance of political parties, trade unions and civil groups, the FNDC spearheaded protests against former president Alpha Conde before his ouster in a coup last year.

Friction has been growing for months between the FNDC and the junta, culminating in an announcement by the coalition on Monday that it would stage demonstrations on August 17.

A decree declaring the FNDC's dissolution, signed by Territorial Administration Minister Mory Conde, was authenticated by AFP on Tuesday.

"The de-facto group called the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution, is dissolved... with effect from the date of signature," the ruling said.

Rumours of the decree had spread on social media late Monday.

The decree said the FNDC's "operational mode is based on violent attacks (perpetrated) during banned demonstrations, attacks against individuals who do not share their ideology, and targeted attacks against the security forces".

The organisation has "the behaviour of combat groups and private militias... threatening national unity, public peace and cohabitation", it said.

Unstable

Rich in minerals but deeply poor, the West African state has had little stability since it gained independence from France in 1958.

In 2010, Conde, today aged 84, became the country's first democratically elected president.

Map of Guinea locating the capital Conakry. By Gillian HANDYSIDE (AFP)

But his popularity dived in his second term as critics accused him of authoritarianism, and opposition protests were violently repressed.

Dozens died, the overwhelming majority of them civilians, in protests launched by the FNDC.

On September 5, as anger mounted over Conde's successful bid for a third term -- a move he defended on the grounds of a change to the constitution -- mutinous troops rebelled.

Junta strongman Mamady Doumbouya has pledged to return power to elected civilians within three years.

The timeline has put the junta into conflict with the region's bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

ECOWAS' chair, Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, said late last month that he had convinced the junta to shorten the transition to two years. But the figure has not been confirmed by Guinea.

Protests

Demonstrations broke out in Guinea on July 28 and 29 over perceptions that the junta was dragging its feet on restoring civilian rule, leaving five dead.

An alliance of political parties, trade unions and civil groups, the FNDC spearheaded protests against former president Alpha Conde. By CELLOU BINANI (AFP/File)

The FNDC on Monday called for nationwide protests on August 17 to condemn the lack of "credible dialogue" and use of lethal weapons against demonstrators. The organisation is also calling for the release of jailed supporters.

The coalition's communications officer, Abdoulaye Oumou Sow, refused to comment Tuesday on the dissolution order.

But the Guinean Organisation for the Defence of Human Rights (OGDH) separately warned that "confiscating civil liberties or silencing all dissenting voices will only make the situation more complicated."

It said it was "very concerned... by the turn of events".

Two FNDC leaders, Oumar Sylla and Ibrahima Diallo, were jailed after the July demonstrations.

They have been charged with taking part in an illegal gathering, destruction of property and bodily harm.

The organisation suspended its activities for a week, including a demonstration planned for August 4, in response to an appeal for calm issued by ECOWAS on August 1.
09.08.2022 LISTEN

The Asokore Mampong District court has again denied a bail application filed by lawyers for an interdicted police officer and a KNUST final year student, who are accused of gang-raping a first-year student of the University.

The police officer, Lance Corporal Frank Adu Poku and Joel Osei Owusu were arrested on 22nd July 2022 after they allegedly raped the victim on 19th July 2022.

The two persons were subsequently remanded on 28th July 2022.

Appearing before the Asokore Mampong District Court on Tuesday, 9th August 2022, the lawyers for the accused persons stressed the need for the clients to be granted bail.

Lawyer for the KNUST final year student for instance advanced the argument that the continuous incarceration of his client on the basis of a mere allegation is a violation of the rights and liberties of his client.

As the prosecution tells the court that the docket on the matter has been forwarded to the office of the Attorney General for advice, the lawyer for the final year student, Sarfo Duku stated that advice from the Attorney Generals office usually takes long and as such, the accused should be granted bail since every offence is bailable.

The lawyer further indicated that since the student is a final year student and is set to write exams in order for him to graduate, the court should grant him bail for him to prepare ahead of the exams.

On the part of the second accused person, the interdicted police officer, his lawyer, Kwaku Yeboah Akowuah said since the docket has been submitted to the office of the Attorney General, he assumed the police have completed their investigations and as such, there is no need to continuously keep his client in police custody.

He added that the police also know his clients fixed place of abode and as a result, he should be granted bail as he will cooperate with the police and attend court proceedings as well.

The Ashanti regional head of legal and prosecutions, ACP Kofi Blagodzi who is the prosecutor handling the case however in his argument opposed the decision to grant the two accused persons bail.

He stressed that the police are still conducting investigations into the case and since the Asokore Mampong District Court lacks jurisdiction to grant bail in such a case which is a first-degree felony, the lawyers should seek bail for their grants at a higher court.

He further told the court that the KNUST lawyer who was present in court has disclosed to him that processes are being followed to ensure the final year student is suspended and as such, there is no need to grant him bail to go and write his exams.

The Magistrate, his Worship Buabin Quansah in his ruling said because of the public interest attached to the matter, there is a need to remand them.

Speaking to Citi News after the court proceedings, ACP Kofi Blagodzi said the Attorney Generals office is very much aware of the public interest associated with the matter and has thus assured that it is working speedily to deliver its advice on the matter to ensure the committal processes begin as early as possible.

The lawyers for the accused persons repeated the application for bail, and I drew the court's attention that my Lord has no jurisdiction to grant bail in respect of this matter. Because this is a first-degree felony offence of rape, I made my Lord aware that they know the appropriate forum that they have to make such an application. This forum is not convenient. That's what I made my lord aware of, and my lord has heard my submission and remanded them. In respect of this matter, the Attorney General is very much aware of the public interest, so they are also working very speedily to come and proceed with the committal proceedings. So this is what I made the court aware of. The police officer has been interdicted.

---citinewsroom
The Nigerian Navy (NN) has handed over two Ghanaian fishermen, Francis Cudjoe and John Qualcoo who were rescued from drowning at sea to the Ghana High Commission in Lagos.

The two were seen floating on the water 10 nautical miles Northeast of Dangote Quays Ibeju Lekki by NNS PROSPERITY.

An emergency evacuation carried out rescued the 2 men on Wednesday, 3 August 2022.

A statement issued by the Western Naval Command (WNC) said the rescued men, were thereafter recovered to NNS BEECROFT, Naval Base Apapa, where they received medical care and attention.

Today, 8 August 2022, NNS BEECROFT handed over the two rescued Ghanaian fishermen to the representatives of the Ghana Consulate in Lagos.

The WNC while commiserating with the Ghanaian Community on the loss of the other two fishermen, reiterated the need for seafarers always to emplace all safety measures, including the use of life jackets within the maritime domain.

Source: classfmonline.com
Angry residents and chiefs of Kwabre East have expressed disappointment over what they claim to be developmental neglect in the area.

The deplorable state of the road networks, stalled market project, and absence of hospital among many other things in the area has forced residents to protest, Tuesday August 9.

Both the young and the old, clad in red and black attire marched on the street to register the displeasure to government.

Being the voting capital of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ashanti region, residents expect to be given a fair share of the national cake in terms of development.

But the constituency is deprived of basic social amenities such as good roads, markets, and hospital facilities.

Not a single road in the area has been tarred.

Work on a market project which started in 2012 has halted and the uncompleted facility left to rot whilst traders ply their activities on the floor.

Addressing th3 media, Chief of Mampongten, Barima Saasi Ayeboafo II, questioned why government has taken them for granted despite being loyal to the NPP for a long time.

Our state of development remains a major scar, a worrying narrative and an affront to our collective dignity to exercise our right to some basic development facilities fundamental to the comfort, security and survival of our people.

A sod-cutting event in October 2019 by H.E. Nana Addo for the commencement of a 5.5km town roads project for Mampongten was immediately abandoned by the contractor after the fanfare and excitement that greeted the ceremony.

What wrong have we done to the government for this punishment?, Barima Ayeboafo II queried.

The Mampongten chief was also worried over neglect of the jubilee market that has been abandoned for years.

The mampong market project started in 2012 has been abandoned since 2013. This project led to the evacuation of the traders and its halt has resulted in plying trade at unauthorized places.

We are no longer going to accept our current status as voting electorate and basket for the ruling party in Ashanti region. We are now shifting from voting electoraltes to policy electorate for meaningful development engagement for the municipality. In other words, meaningful development engagement qould now determine our voting pattern

On health, residents say government has denied the a share of the Agenda 111 project which focuses on the construction of modern district hospital facilities.

The angry residents have threatened to stage series of protest in the coming days if government fails to address their concerns.

---3news.com
Ghana President, H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo

09.08.2022 LISTEN

A Political Science lecturer at the University of Cape Coast, Jonathan Asante Okyere has opined that it will be impossible for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to stay in government after the 2024 general elections.

Speaking to Kasapa FM in an interview, the UCC Lecturer stressed that the NPP will lose power in the next election because of the behaviour of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.

According to Jonathan Asante Okyere, President Akufo-Addos decision not to listen to advise will send the ruling party into opposition.

The President listens to only himself, he should be more accommodative and listen to advise from other well-meaning people. If you really want to break the 8 as the NPP is bent on doing and you are not even listening to Civil Society, then you have a problem. Because these are the people who control the middle class.

Under this Fourth Republic, it is only under the NPP government that we have supporters in its stronghold always holding press conferences to complain of neglect. This is a very bad omen for the party, Jonathan Asante Okyere shared.

The UCC Political Science Lecturer continued, I will not mince words, the NPP cannot break the 8 with such behavior from the President. The very people he has to listen to, are the very people that hes rather condemning and ridiculing and they will show you where power lies.

Despite several calls for President Akufo-Addo to reshuffle appointees in his government, he said that will not happen.

Speaking to North Star Radio in an interview on Monday, August 8, the President said the NDC is fueling the calls for a reshuffle just to destabilise his government.

Many of them for me have done outstanding work. Their output has been considerable, and that is what I look at.

If the output measures expectations, then I dont have any strong reasons to heed the call. The calls come for all kinds of reasons; NDC wanting to destabilise the government is one. There are people who are also looking for jobs, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo noted.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday said the United States was "concerned" by "credible" reports that Rwanda is supporting rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

The resurgence of the M23 group in Congo's restive east has exacerbated tensions between the neighbours, with Kinshasa accusing Kigali of backing the rebels.

Blinken was speaking in the Congolese capital Kinshasa, where he arrived on Tuesday for the second leg of a three-nation African tour and met President Felix Tshisekedi.

Rwanda has denied the allegations and Blinken is due to visit the country following a one-day stay in Kinshasa.

"We are very concerned by credible reports that Rwanda has supported the M23," the top US diplomat told a press conference in Kinshasa.

"All countries have to respect their neighbours' territorial integrity," he added, saying he was "not turning a blind eye" and would discuss the issue with Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

Blinken said his trip to the region was to ensure US support for mediation efforts led by Angola and Kenya "to prevent further violence, to end conflict (and) to preserve the territorial integrity of the DRC".

The DRC is seeking international support as it struggles with Rwanda over the M23, a primarily Congolese Tutsi group that is one of many operating in the troubled east.

After lying mostly dormant for years, the rebels resumed fighting late last year, seizing the strategic town of Bunagana on the Ugandan border in June and prompting thousands of people to flee their homes.

In a 131-page report to the UN Security Council seen last week by AFP, experts said Rwandan troops had intervened militarily inside the DRC since at least November.

Rwanda also "provided troop reinforcements" for specific M23 operations, the experts' report said, "in particular when these aimed at seizing strategic towns and areas".

Democratic Republic of Congo. By Sophie RAMIS (AFP)

Kinshasa and Kigali have had strained relations since the mass influx of Rwandan Hutus accused of slaughtering Tutsis during the 1994 Rwanda genocide.

Relations began to thaw after Tshisekedi took office in 2019 but the M23's resurgence has revived tensions.

The group, also known as the "March 23 Movement", first leapt to prominence in 2012 when it briefly captured the city of Goma before a joint Congolese-UN offensive drove it out.

Rwanda and M23

Blinken arrived in Kinshasa from South Africa, where he said the United States was seeking a "true partnership" with Africa and was not vying with other powers for influence on the continent.

Tshisekedi was to "raise the questions of strategic partnership" between the DRC and the United States during his meeting with Blinken at the presidential palace, his office said in a statement Monday.

Blinken was speaking in the Congolese capital Kinshasa, where he arrived on Tuesday. By Andrew Harnik (POOL/AFP)

On the eve of Blinken's swing through the DRC and Rwanda, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged him to condemn the M23 attacks and press Rwanda on its rights record, which included a "brutal" crackdown on dissent.

"As in 2012, the M23 are committing war crimes against civilians," said a HRW statement.

"Witnesses described summary killings of at least 29 people, including children, in June and July... The US should raise with Rwanda the reliable reports that it is again supporting the M23's abusive conduct in eastern Congo."

The M23 is just one of scores of armed groups that roam eastern DRC, many of them a legacy of two regional wars that flared late last century.

One of the bloodiest militias is the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) -- an organisation the Islamic State group describes as its "Central Africa Province" affiliate.

The State Department placed the ADF on its list of IS-linked "terrorist" organisations in March 2021.
A Development Economist at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), Dr. Patrick Asuming wants the government to open up to Ghanaians about negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo last month directed Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta to begin engagements with the IMF for support to save the countrys economy from collapse.

Amid ongoing talks for Ghana to be enrolled on a programme, Dr. Patrick Asuming has proposed that government engages the citizenry in the process of putting together the document for the IMF programme.

The processes of putting the document in place should involve Ghanaians.

It is important that a wide section of the society understand the challenges we are facing, Dr. Patrick Asuming told Joy News on Tuesday, August 9.

According to reports, Ghana is not expected to be enrolled on an IMF programme until the first quarter of 2023.

With things getting worse as Ghanas economy continues to suffer, American credit rating agency, Standard and Poor's (S&P) Global Ratings has downgraded Ghanas debt credibility from B-/B to CCC+/C with a negative outlook.

Reacting to the downgrade, former President Mahama in a post on his Facebook page said it appears Ghanas economic challenges have no end.

According to him, it is unfortunate that in the crisis, the ruling government has failed to put forward a credible plan to save the collapsing economy.

There appears to be no end to the problems with the Ghanaian economy, with the recent downgrade to CCC+/C Junk status.

The steep depreciation of the Ghana Cedi in recent days, clearly shows that the mid-year review of the 2022 budget failed to win back the confidence of the investor community and the Ghanaian public.

Unfortunately, no credible remedial plans have been put forward by the government to salvage the economy, former President John Dramani Mahama said.

He proposes that a national dialogue should be organised to find the best and lasting solutions for the countrys problems.

A national dialogue on the economy, bringing some of our best brains together will serve us well, even as we prepare for debt restructuring and negotiation of an IMF programme, the 2020 presidential candidate of the opposition National Democratic Congress said.
Former Deputy Information Minister, Felix Ofosu Kwakye has said Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has misapplied funds for the running of the country and no longer has any to spend.

Speaking to Citi News, the Aide to former President John Dramani Mahama insisted that this is the reason why the Minister could not ask for more money when he visited Parliament to present the 2022 mid-year budget review.

The Minister simply did not have money to spend. It is not the case that he has money somewhere that he is refused to spend. He does not have money. He is as broke as a church mouse. That is why he did not ask for more money [during his presentation of the mid-year budget review], Felix Ofosu Kwakye claimed.

Commenting on ex-President John Dramani Mahamas calls for a national dialogue to salvage Ghanas collapsing economy, the former Information Minister stressed that the dialogue is necessary.

He said although Ghana is in dire need of solutions to save its economy, the current government does not seem to be ready to consider the ideas of others to save the situation.

We are really in a desperate situation which requires an immediate urgent solution and this government does not appear to be willing to tap into the ideas that others may bring on board to help address the situation.

This is why the former president found it necessary to put this out to galvanize a certain level of public discourse around the issues so that government will do what is right in order to spare Ghanaians the agony we are going through, Felix Ofosu Kwakye argued.

In his post on Facebook on Tuesday morning, ex-President Mahama bemoaned the recent downgrade of Ghanas debt credibility from B-/B to CCC+/C with a negative outlook.

He stressed that the steep depreciation of the Ghana Cedi in recent days, clearly shows that the mid-year review of the 2022 budget failed to win back the confidence of the investor community and the Ghanaian public.
The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, on Tuesday, 9th August 2022, visited Global Almas Processing Ltd, a yam and cassava processing factory located in Bimbilla, in the Northern Region.

Taking the President on a tour of the factory, the Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry and Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Hon. Michael Okyere Baafi indicated to the President that the company has taken advantage of the available local raw materials in the Nanumba and surrounding areas to process yam and cassava flour for both domestic and foreign markets.

According to the Deputy Minister, Global Almas has a land bank of more than 2,000 acres at Bimbilla, and additional land would be acquired as the operations expand with an anticipated increase in demand for products.

He noted also that the factory produces 1,000 cartons of Yam Fufu Flour per day, under the brand name Almas Yam Fufu Flour, requiring the purchasing of 10,000 yam per day.

With respect to the cassava processing line, some 200 bags of cassava flour is produced per day, with the company engaging some 20 farming groups, who have committed themselves to produce for the factory.

Hon. Baafi indicated to the President that the total cost of the factory is pegged at GH9.2 million, with 60% equity contribution from the Promoter translating to about GH5.2 million. The Ghana Exim Bank has also provided a credit facility amounting to GH1 million (10.8% of the total project cost) which was disbursed in February 2021.

Global Almas has, thus far, created more than 74 direct jobs including Management, Supervisors, Food Scientist, Laboratory Technician and Maintenance Technicians as well as women who are involved in the peeling, cleaning, bagging, stitching machine attendants and sorting of the yam/cassava.

In addition, over 400 additional Indirect jobs have been created for out-growers, transporters, harvesting team, packaging & handling, sales outlets, etc.

Already, the company has signed an agreement with Sinostone Ethanol Manufacturing Company located in Juapong to supply 1,000 tons of cassava chips every month. Another agreement has been concluded with Bofas Company Limited located in Wa for the supply of 40-foot container of yam fufu flour every month for export to the US market.
The Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP) has rubbished claims by Energy Ministry Matthew Opoku Prempeh that it hates the people of Kumasi for criticising the relocation of the Ameri plant to Kumasi.

ACEP has said the relocation processes lacked transparency.

ACEP reveals that although the relocation according to the Energy Ministry is to cost $35.6 million, its checks have revealed that the cost involved is actually $25.48.

The Minister quotes $35.6 million as the cost of the relocation in his 17th December 2021 letter to VRA. However, ACEP has sighted the original proposal from Mytilineos SA dated 22nd March 2021 to the Ministry, quoting $25.48 million for the same.

Instead of negotiating the proposal of the sole-sourced offer downwards, the contract cost has instead increased by 40 percent. It is unclear what accounts for such a quantum leap from the proposal amount by Mytilineos SA, ACEP notes in its 8-paged statement.

While ACEP accepts the justification given by the Energy Ministry for the relocation of the Ameri Plant, it argues that with the current debt situation of the sector, it is not the best decision.

In reaction to ACEP criticisms of the relocation of the Ameri Plant on Peace FM, Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prempeh claims ACEP is "only against the Ameri plant relocation because it is going to Kumasi."

In a counter press release issued by ACEP on August 2, it advised that in the midst of current challenges in the sector, it should not be the priority of the Ministry considering the huge cost involved.

While stressing that it harbours no hatred for the people of Kumasi, ACEP has implored the Energy Minister to channel his energy into tackling the many challenges confronting the sector he is in charge of.

It is important to state that ACEP has no direct interest in wherever the Ameri plant is located beyond the public interest. From the Minister's interview, he has either not read ACEP's press statement or was deliberately mischievous because he did not address the substantive issues raised in our statement.

The challenges of the power sector require the full focus of the Minister of Energy than accusing ACEP of hate for the people of Kumasi, pandering to the opposition and instigating agitations, parts of the ACEP release reads.

It concludes, For Ghana to pay over GHS14 billion in 2020 and 2021 with an outstanding debt of about GHS17.6 billion (GHS9.6 billion for gas and IPP debts and about GHS8 billion from ESLA), the fiscal challenges in the sector are getting to overwhelming levels that require the control of debt accumulation, not personalization and accusations. ACEP remains committed to providing credible policy analysis and alternatives without fear or favor, in the national interest.

Read full rejoinder below:

Rejoinder: One on One with Hon. Matthew Opoku Prempeh on Peace FM

The Africa Centre for Energy Policy has followed the conversation generated on the back of the Minister of Energy's interview granted to Peace FM on Kokrokoo Morning Show on Wednesday, August 3, 2022. The interview was also broadcasted on Facebook. As part of the interview, the show's host asked specific questions regarding ACEP's cautionary press statement released on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, on the relocation of the Ameri Plant from Takoradi to Kumasi. In the answers of the Minister, he made claims that are not factual but reinforced his conclusion that

ACEP is "only against the Ameri plant relocation because it is going to Kumasi."

It is important to state that ACEP has no direct interest in wherever the Ameri plant is located beyond the public interest. From the Minister's interview, he has either not read ACEP's press statement or was deliberately mischievous because he did not address the substantive issues raised in our statement. ACEP, therefore, wants to restate the following facts, hoping that Peace FM would make them available as a response to the vast following and audience of the station:

"ACEP is only against the Ameri plant relocation because it is going to Kumasi" connoting a tribal hate of ACEP for the people of Kumasi. ACEP is not against the location of a power plant in any part of Ghana. We analyze the decisions of the Energy Ministry based on their strategic or proprietary fit at a particular time. In our statement, we were emphatic that there may be a need for power generation in the middle belt in the medium to long term. However, with the cash-strapped power sector managed by the same Minister, the most optimal decisions must be prioritized. The power sector's financial situation is worsening every year and requires decisions that, at the barest minimum, reduce the burden and not add on. In 2020 and 2021, the government shouldered total under-recoveries from the sector to over GHS 14 billion (GHS 6.8 billion in 2020, and the cedi equivalent of $1.257 billion in 2021). In addition, the sector's outstanding payments for gas and IPPs are in excess of $1.2 billion (GHS9.6 billion) for the first half of 2022. "ACEP sent the statement to the NDC first." This is completely false. The Minister cannot provide any evidence to back this claim. Our statement was first read at about 10:15 am and broadcasted on Zoom and Facebook in the presence of the media. Any evidence or trace before this time would confirm what the Minister is claiming. It is important to note that our statements are public documents available to the government and the opposition.

"ACEP is inciting agitations and demonstrations against the relocation of the plant." This is another false statement. ACEP is neither aware of any demonstrations organized anywhere on Ameri nor have we instigated one. Therefore, we can say authoritatively that the Minister cannot substantiate this claim.

This is another false statement. ACEP is neither aware of any demonstrations organized anywhere on Ameri nor have we instigated one. Therefore, we can say authoritatively that the Minister cannot substantiate this claim. "VRA is leading the negotiations and not the Ministry of Energy". Again, all the available evidence show that the Ministry, at all times, has been Ghana's negotiating party (see attached annex). The proposal from Mytilineos SA for $25.48 million was submitted to the Ministry. The Ministry did the negotiations, applied for PPA approval for $71.6 million ($35.6 million for the relocation and $36 million for the operations and maintenance) and sought the legal opinion of the Attorney General's office for the contract. It was subsequent to these that the VRA Senior Staff Association wrote to protest the negotiations done by the Ministry.

Again, all the available evidence show that the Ministry, at all times, has been Ghana's negotiating party (see attached annex). The proposal from Mytilineos SA for $25.48 million was submitted to the Ministry. The Ministry did the negotiations, applied for PPA approval for $71.6 million ($35.6 million for the relocation and $36 million for the operations and maintenance) and sought the legal opinion of the Attorney General's office for the contract. It was subsequent to these that the VRA Senior Staff Association wrote to protest the negotiations done by the Ministry. Bui is a peaking plant that only works for 4-5 hours in the day. Bui is a peaking plant because Ghana has made it so, not because it has peaking turbines. Bui is a 400MW plant, however, the plant cannot generate at that capacity all year round due to limitations with the available volumes of water in a given year. This is why Ghana decided to generate power from Bui at full capacity during the peak hours. The simple point ACEP made in the statement is that, instead of operating 400MW at peak periods, we could reduce the generation to about 150MW for the plant to run 24 hours a day to support generation from the East and Western power enclaves (where we are told there is excess capacity) for a period that gives Ghana a breathing space to address the fiscal challenges in the power sector. Any plant that can start and shut in a matter of minutes can be designated as a peaking plant.

The challenges of the power sector require the full focus of the Minister of Energy than accusing ACEP of hate for the people of Kumasi, pandering to the opposition and instigating agitations. For Ghana to pay over GHS14 billion in 2020 and 2021 with an outstanding debt of about GHS17.6 billion (GHS9.6 billion for gas and IPP debts and about GHS8 billion from ESLA), the fiscal challenges in the sector are getting to overwhelming levels that require the control of debt accumulation, not personalization and accusations. ACEP remains committed to providing credible policy analysis and alternatives without fear or favor, in the national interest.

Ends.

Annex: Evidence of the Ministry of Energy as Ghanas Negotiating Party
Texas coffers continue to expand from record amounts of production taxes paid by the states oil and natural gas producers.

Comptroller Glen Hegars office this week released tax collection data that showed oil producers paid $694 million in production taxes in July, once again the highest on record and up 84% from July 2021. At the same time, natural gas producers paid $532 million in production taxes  also the highest on record and up 185% from the previous July. This is at least the third consecutive month production taxes have reached record highs.

Oil and gas production taxes set another monthly record, primarily due to Permian Basin production. Permian producers continue to produce the products that the world needs and the revenues to fund critical state and local functions. All of this in spite of continued and forceful efforts from the federal government to stymie the industry, Ben Shepperd, president of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association, told the Reporter-Telegram by email.

Three months in a row of record collections! Jason Modglin, president of the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers, told the Reporter-Telegram by email. Texas taxpayers continue to see enormous direct benefits from record oil and natural gas tax revenues that fund our roads, water and education infrastructure.

For the states fiscal year 2022, which ends Aug. 31, oil production taxes have totaled more than $5.75 billion, up 88.96% from the previous year. The estimate was for just more than $6.23 billion. Natural gas taxes have totaled $3.945 billion, up 191.52% from the previous year and just below the forecast of $4.46 billion.

The Texas Oil and Gas Association reports that for the states upcoming fiscal year 2023, which begins Sept. 1, oil production taxes are expected to be $6.58 billion  up 104% from the $3.23 billion generated in FY 2020. Natural gas production is expected to generate $4.69 billion in production taxes, up 407% from the $925 million generated in FY 2020.

Texas all-time monthly records for oil and natural gas production tax collections were shattered again in July, reminding Texans of the vast benefits our state enjoys as the top oil and natural gas producing state in the nation, said Todd Staples, president of the Texas Oil and Gas Association. These benefits extend beyond Texas borders though as our nation and world enjoy the advantages of homegrown, clean, American energy that is meeting our energy needs and environmental goals here at home and across the globe.

In July, Hegar raised his Certification Revenue estimate upward, increasing his November estimate of General Revenue-related funds available for certification by $13.75 billion, giving the state $149.07 billion in GR-R funds for general-purpose spending for the 2022-23 biennium. This should result in a projected fiscal 2023 ending balance of $26.95 billion, an increase of $14.95 billion from the November projected balance.

Hegar attributed the revision to rebounding tax revenues. He added severance taxes had performed extremely well due to high oil and natural gas prices.

The comptroller is expected to issue his next estimate, the Biennial Revenue Estimate, the day before the legislative session opens in January 2023.
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WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  New Zealand's government on Wednesday released its first-ever climate adaptation plan, which includes the possibility of moving some communities to higher ground.

But the six-year plan, which runs nearly 200 pages, comes up short on some important details, including how much the changes will cost and who will pay.

Climate Change Minister James Shaw told reporters that about 70,000 coastal homes in New Zealand were at risk from rising seas, and many more inland homes were at risk from flooding rivers. He said New Zealand had been slow to adapt to climate change, which would end up costing more money over time.

I am frustrated that for the last three decades, successive governments have not paid any attention in any real form to the challenges that we face from the effects of climate change, Shaw said. We had to start somewhere.

The National Adaptation Plan includes the possible relocation of low-lying homes and assets as rising seas and increased storms make flooding more common.

In some highly exposed areas, the risk from natural hazard and climate impacts may become intolerable, the report says. Inundation of buildings and infrastructure will start to occur, leading to direct damage and loss of some facilities like roads or other lifeline services, and public open space.

The report says that a managed retreat from such areas will often be considered a last resort, to be used in conjunction with other adaptations such as installing seawalls and raising houses on stilts.

Shaw said the costs for adaptation will be borne by a combination of homeowners, insurers, banks, local councils and central government. He said the government was taking hardship into account, and would target help to those least able to pay for changes themselves.

The plan also aims to make granular climate-change data more widely accessible, which in some cases could impact insurance rates and property prices.

Luke Harrington, a senior lecturer in climate change at the University of Waikato, said in a statement the report was a timely reminder that New Zealand needed to contend not only with rising seas, but also with other climate impacts such as more severe droughts and extreme rainfall.

This National Adaptation Plan is a great first step towards addressing some of these challenges, though paucity remains in some of the details," he said.

The adaptation plan comes two months after the government released a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which includes a trial program to help lower-income people scrap their old gas guzzlers and replace them with cleaner hybrid or electric cars.

The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research said that the first six months of 2022 were the second-hottest ever recorded in New Zealand, with temperatures averaging 15 Celsius (59 Fahrenheit), about 1.2 C (2.2 F) above normal.
Serenity Soliz is employed in the health care field and is majoring in Business at Midland College; however, she has also discovered a new passion  writing.

I hated English in high school, Soliz said. In fact, it was my least favorite subject. Then, I took Dr. Browns [William Christopher Brown, co-department chair, English] class, and I learned how to write. Now, I love English. I cant wait to take Dr. Browns Business & Technical Writing class!

Her new love of writing resulted in two writing contest awards this past spring semester. She won first place in both the Womens History Month Non-fiction Feature Stories Contest and in the Narrative Nonfiction section of the MC Nonfiction Writing Contest.

In both cases, I just wrote about people I admire, Soliz explained. The article for the Womens History Month Contest was about my mother who taught me how to be independent. She is a single mother who relied solely on herself to provide for her children. She works at H-E-B and has moved her way up the career ladder to her current position as produce manager.

The article for the Narrative Non-fiction Contest was about my supervisor Dr. Jeff Grigsby, an optometrist at Vision Health Specialties. I wrote about how he cares for his patients and the people in his life, how he takes pride in his work and is extremely thorough in performing his job responsibilities. I strive to pattern my own behavior and ethics after my mother and Dr. Grigsby.

Soliz has worked full-time at Vision Health Specialties for 2  years. She currently serves as Grigsbys assistant, a position in which she was promoted after serving as a general certified paraoptometric. This isnt the first time her hard work has rewarded her with a promotion.

She began working at H-E-B while still in high school and continued working when she graduated. Soliz served as a cashier for two years and then was promoted to a position in the cosmetics department where she worked until leaving to pursue a career in health care. She worked for Turner for approximately eight months until he retired, at which time she then went to Vision Health Specialties.

I enjoy optometric work, she said. Working for Dr. Grigsby is interesting because he is also a microbiologist and deals with diseases of the eye. We also work with two ophthalmologists  Dr. Bradley in Lubbock and Dr. Walters in Austin. Dr. Grigsby refers patients to them for surgery. I work with Dr. Grigsby for post-op care, and occasionally I get to scrub in with one of the ophthalmologists during Lasik surgery. Its a great opportunity to learn, and Im also interested in the business side of the medical field. Thats why I chose Business as my major.

Soliz first took classes at MC in the fall of 2019 and spring 2020; however, like many students, after the COVID pandemic semester of spring 2020, she didnt return the next fall. Then, in fall of 2021 with Dr. Grigsbys encouragement, she returned to Midland College. Because she works full-time, she only takes a couple of courses each semester. Most of her classes are online, which accommodates her busy workload. When Soliz does take a traditional lecture class, she said that Dr. Grigsby allows her to juggle her work schedule around class times.

I like the traditional classroom style because I enjoy interacting face-to-face with the students and professors, but it isnt always convenient. The good thing about online courses is that they have forced me to be more self-disciplined. There is no set schedule to attend class, so I have to carve out time to complete the class assignments on my own.

Besides English with Brown, Soliz said that her favorite class so far has been a business computer applications class that she took with Professor Amme Blumenauer. This fall she is looking forward to taking two more online courses  another English course and Government.

When she isnt busy working and studying, Soliz enjoys Netflix binging and being with her two dogs, Simba, a 3-year-old German Shepherd, and Lilo, a German Shepherd/Pit bull-mix puppy.

--

Rebecca Bell is the executive director of Institutional Advancement at Midland College.
Editors Note: The following is the second of two stories about a conversation with Tracee Bentley with the Permian Strategic Partnership about the possibility of the creation of a regional health care complex.

--

The coalition of 17 energy companies known as the Permian Strategic Partnership have invested $41 million on health care initiatives.

That is 44% of the $93 million in contributions to West Texas and southeast New Mexico on health care, education, workforce, housing, road safety and initiative support.

Those health care initiatives include $12.8 million on a Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center surgery and subspecialty residency and $10.7 million on a nursing and pre-med program at the University of Texas Permian Basin.

Other programs include $2.3 million on counseling and guidance, $2.5 million on the TTUHSC program at Midland College and $5.9 million on a TTUHSC family medicine residency program and $800,000 on mobile clinics. The PSP annual report includes sections about investing in health care education to make a dent in the 1,000 nursing vacancies in the Permian and growing our own surgeons and specialists to help rectify the regional shortage of cardiologists and gastroenterologists and building up the number of residents working in regional hospitals.

National statistics indicate that up to 60% of trained residents will remain within a 50-mile radius of the region in which they served a residency to establish their medical practice, the annual report stated. In supporting this (residency) program, PSP seeks to strengthen the physician pipeline for our regions hospitals.

As PSP Executive Director Tracee Bentley said during an interview with the Reporter-Telegram an assessment pointing out gaping holes in Midland-Odessa showed almost 50% of people leave the region for health care, specifically for specialty reasons.

We don't have great access to specialty care here, Bentley said.

What about the care for those who cant leave?

One reason the PSP, Scharbauer Foundation and members of both hospital districts in Midland and Odessa have been communicating about the assessment and potentially whats next (tomorrow and 20 years down the road) is improving access to quality health care across the Permian Basin.

A medical complex that combines the resources of the two cities can help achieve the goal of making Midland-Odessa a health care destination and maybe even world class, but the assessment and ensuing action is important because whats in place should be better, Bentley said.

Bentley stated the obvious  there isnt a Level 1 trauma care facility in Midland-Odessa.

We don't even have a Level 2 anymore, Bentley said. If you are in need of Level 1 care, you're probably going to be airlifted to Lubbock and sometimes people don't have that kind of time. So, what level of trauma care is appropriate for our region is something that we're looking at. And then how do we get what is it going to cost us? What do we need to get to that trauma level?

She said the lack of specialty surgeons and doctors is a reason a Level 1 center is not in Midland-Odessa.

We were funding health care initiatives long before we started that assessment, said Bentley of the $41 million the PSP has spent on health care. Even if this transformative health care hub does not end up transpiring, the things that we will accomplish along the way are in-and-of-themselves monumental.  We are still going to definitely improve access to behavioral health and definitely provide more access to specialty areas. And we're definitely going to improve in our telemedicine because that's another area that came out that we are that we need to do a lot of work.

And that will help the health care of those working on remote worksites across the Permian Basin. Bentley said because of the remoteness and antiquated systems that do exist, emergency response isnt always efficient. And improving health care means focusing beyond the health care offered inside hospitals inside Midland and Odessa.

What can and cant be done

Bentley said initial reports of the assessment and what the PSP and other entities are looking at were premature. She said they led to people making assumptions about facilities and other things being moved when decisions have not been made because officials are still processing information.

That information includes:

What investment the state could make;

Could the voters in Midland and Odessa support the concept of a medical complex for the 21 st century and beyond;

century and beyond; What type of support would come from the University of Texas system and the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center;

What would be part of the medical complex.

The last one includes the obvious. If a more central location was determined to be needed, what would that mean for residents in eastern Midland County and western Ector County. Those talked to for this article stated facilities would be required in the heart of metropolitan areas for emergency care. Officials also suggested there would be other scenarios when geography would require care to remain inside respective city cores.

Maybe the answer comes back and it's just too big of a stretch for the Permian to host something like this, Bentley said. But at least we know. And at least we did our homework. And, so, we can look everybody in the eye and say, we did our homework, and we found it's just not feasible here. But what if it is?  Nobody is saying that any of this is inevitable, except for the behavioral health center.
Accenture to Buy Brand and Experience Agency Romp

Professional services giant Accenture is to acquire Indonesia-based brand and experience agency Romp, for an undisclosed sum.



Founded two years ago in Jakarta by former MullenLowe Indonesia CEO Joseph Tan (pictured), Romp focuses on branding, creative and performance marketing, and says it aims to help clients become experience-led organisations. Romp will become part of Accenture's customer experience and analytics business Song (previously Accenture Interactive), enhancing the latter's ability to deliver creative and tech-driven brand experiences for clients across Southeast Asia.



Divyesh Vithlani, Accenture's Senior MD and Southeast Asia Market Unit Lead, says the takeover will support companies looking to use artificial intelligence, data and technology to drive creative content. Thomas Mouritzen, Accenture Song's Southeast Asia Lead, adds: 'Accenture Song's deep understanding of consumers and businesses, combined with Romp's outstanding brand capabilities, will broaden our ability to harness the ongoing technology revolution for consumers and brands. This is a powerful proposition for our clients seeking to win with innovative thinking and connected capabilities in Southeast Asia'.



Web sites: www.accenture.com and www.thisisromp.com .




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TOKYO (AP)  Issey Miyake, who built one of Japans biggest fashion brands and was known for his boldly sculpted pleated pieces as well as former Apple CEO Steve Jobs black turtlenecks, has died. He was 84.

Miyake died last Friday of liver cancer, Miyake Design Office said Tuesday.

Miyake defined an era in Japans modern history, reaching stardom in the 1970s among a generation of designers and artists who reached global fame by defining a Japanese vision that was unique from the West.

Miyakes origami-like pleats transformed usually crass polyester into chic. He also used computer technology in weaving to create apparel. His down-to-earth clothing was meant to celebrate the human body regardless of race, build, size or age.

Miyake even detested being called a fashion designer, choosing not to identify with what he saw as a frivolous, trend-watching, conspicuous consumption.

Again and again, Miyake returned to his basic concept of starting with a single piece of cloth  be it draped, folded, cut or wrapped.

Over the years, he took inspiration from a variety of cultures and societal motifs, as well as everyday items  plastic, rattan, washi paper, jute, horsehair, foil, yarn, batik, indigo dyes and wiring.

He sometimes evoked images of Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin, or collaborated with Japanese painter Tadanori Yokoo in images of monkeys and foliage in vibrant, psychedelic hues.

He also collaborated with furniture and interior designer Shiro Kuramata, photographer Irving Penn, choreographer and director Maurice Bejart, pottery maker Lucie Rie and Ballet Frankfurt.

In 1992, Miyake was commissioned to design the official Olympic uniform for Lithuania, which had just gained independence from the Soviet Union.

Born in Hiroshima in 1938, Miyake was a star as soon as he hit the European runways. His brown top, which combined the Japanese sewn fabric sashiko with raw silk knit, was splashed on the cover of the September 1973 issue of Elle magazine.

Miyake was also a pioneer in gender roles, asking feminist Fusae Ichikawa in the 1970s  when she was in her 80s  to be his model, sending the message that garments must be comfortable and express the natural beauty of real people.

Although he made clothes that went beyond the mundane, appearing to reach for the spiritual, he made a point to never get pretentious, always approving of the T-shirt-and-jeans look.

Designing is like a living organism in that it pursues what matters for its well-being and continuity, Miyake once wrote in his book.

His office confirmed a private funeral had already been held and other ceremonies will not be held in accordance with Miyake's wishes. Miyake kept his family life private, and survivors are not known.

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Yuri Kageyama is on Twitter at https://twitter.com/yurikageyama
Junior Red Angus member Natalie Evans of Jacksonville has received a $1,000 college scholarship from the association.

She is the daughter of Sean and Amy Evans of Jacksonville. She and her family run a commercial and registered cattle operation called Coal Creek Cattle Co.

The Red Angus Association of America awards scholarships to members who are active in the association and plan to attend college in the coming year. Recipients are selected through an interview process and based on their school work, leadership and professionalism.

Natalie Evans is a senior at Routt Catholic High School, where she is participates in sideline cheerleading, varsity track team, student council, National English Honor Society, National Honor Society, service club and ambassador club. She has been involved in 4-H and plans to earn a degree in pre-veterinary medicine before attending veterinary school.

The Red Angus Association of America serves the beef industry by promoting Red Angus and Red Angus-influenced cattle.
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COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  The leaders of Estonia and Finland want fellow European countries to stop issuing tourist visas to Russian citizens, saying they should not be able to take vacations in Europe while the Russian government carries out a war in Ukraine.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas wrote Tuesday on Twitter that visiting Europe is a privilege, not a human right and that it is time to end tourism from Russia now.

A day earlier, her counterpart in Finland, Sanna Marin, told Finnish broadcaster YLE that it is not right that while Russia is waging an aggressive, brutal war of aggression in Europe, Russians can live a normal life, travel in Europe, be tourists."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy went further in a Washington Post interview Monday, saying all Western countries should ban Russian tourists.

Estonia and Finland both border Russia and are members of the European Union, which banned air travel from Russia after it invaded Ukraine. But Russians can still travel by land to both countries and apparently are then taking flights to other European destinations.

The calls for a travel ban have sparked outrage within Russia, from both the Kremlin and its critics. Opposition-minded public figures condemned the comments in social media posts as fueling Moscows anti-Western propaganda and being unhelpful in stopping the war.

I think that over time, common sense will somehow manifest itself, and those who made such statements will come to their senses, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday.

YLE reported last week that Russian companies have started offering car trips from St. Petersburg to the airports of Helsinki and Lappeenranta in Finland, which have direct connections to several places in Europe. Russias second-largest city is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the Finnish capital.

Visas issued by Finland are valid across most of Europe's travel zone, known as the Schengen area which is made up of 26 countries: 22 EU nations plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Normally, people and goods move freely between these countries without border checks. Nineteen other countries outside this travel area allow in foreigners using a Schengen visa.

Finland just resumed accepting applications for tourist visas in Russia on July 1, lifting monthslong travel restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some EU countries no longer issue visas to Russians, including Latvia, which made that decision this month because of the war.

The visa issue is expected be discussed at an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers on Aug. 31, YLE reported.

I would believe that in future European Council meetings, this issue will come up even more strongly. My personal position is that tourism should be restricted, Marin told the Finnish broadcaster.

Peskov on Tuesday said calls for travel bans are usually coming from countries that Moscow has already deemed hostile and many of those countries in their hostility sink into oblivion.

Putins close associate and deputy head of Russias Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, dismissed the Estonian premier's statement, adding ominously: I just want to remind her of another saying: The fact that you are free is not your merit, but our flaw.'

Zelenskyy told The Washington Post that the most important sanctions are to close the borders for Russian travelers, because the Russians are taking away someone elses land.

Russians should live in their own world until they change their philosophy, Zelenskyy said, adding that such restrictions should apply to all Russians, even those who left the country and oppose the war.

It's contrasts with what he said in March, a month after Moscow sent troops into Ukraine, when he urged Russians to leave the country to avoid funding the war with their taxes.

Asked about Zelenskyys remarks, Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, called them a statement ... that speaks for itself, which Moscow views extremely negatively.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine.

___

This story has been corrected to show that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys interview with The Washington Post was on Monday, not Tuesday.
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  Gazas militant Hamas rulers issued sweeping new restrictions on journalists after the recent conflict there, but then rescinded them, a group representing foreign media in Israel and the Palestinian territories said Tuesday.

Palestinians who work with foreign journalists were first informed of the new rules earlier this week in messages sent by the Hamas-run Interior Ministry. They were ordered not to report on Gazans killed by misfired Palestinian rockets or the military capabilities of Palestinian armed groups, and were told to blame Israel for the recent escalation.

The Foreign Press Association, which represents international media, including The Associated Press, said the guidelines were rescinded after discussions with authorities in Gaza.

The FPA said in a statement that "such a move would have constituted a severe, unacceptable and unjustifiable restriction on the freedom of the press, as well as the safety of our colleagues in Gaza,"

Salama Marouf, director of the government media office in Gaza, confirmed the reversal. There are no restrictions, he said. We welcome all foreign journalists and media into Gaza and we call on them to come.

The rules would have gone much further than existing Hamas restrictions. They appeared aimed at imposing the Islamic militant group's narrative on media coverage of the conflict by implicitly threatening Palestinian reporters and translators who live under its heavy-handed rule.

Even if the rules are officially withdrawn, Hamas has still signaled its expectations, which could have a chilling effect on critical coverage.

In the long-running Israeli-Palestinian conflict, both sides have attempted to impose their narratives and limit negative coverage. Israel, which portrays itself as the only democracy in the Middle East, has a military censor who sometimes imposes gag orders. Israeli authorities also restrict media access to military activities and the country's nuclear program.

Hamas' attempt this week to muzzle the foreign media came after it sat out the latest conflict with Israel. The decision to stay on the sidelines likely reflects Hamas' desire to preserve economic understandings with Israel that have somewhat eased a 15-year blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt after the Hamas takeover.

After a Gaza cease-fire took hold Monday, following three days of fighting between Israel and Hamas' smaller sister group Islamic Jihad, the Interior Ministry distributed a written copy of the rules to Palestinians applying for entry permits on behalf of foreign media outlets, with instructions to communicate them to the foreign journalists in their own local way."

Hamas, which seized power in Gaza in 2007 from rival Palestinian forces, requires all visiting reporters to have a local sponsor  usually a Palestinian journalist or translator hired by the news outlet.

Under the now rescinded restrictions, sponsors were told they must accompany the journalists during their reporting and will be held responsible for what they produce. The sponsors were warned that they must "demonstrate national spirit, defend the Palestinian narrative and reject the foreigners bias to the Israeli narrative.

They would have also been required to inform Hamas of any suspicious behavior or illogical questions outside the scope of journalistic work, and to submit a full report to Hamas of what the journalists did in Gaza, in addition to links to all published works.

The guidelines appeared to suggest that writing about forbidden topics like the rocket misfires  or about the media guidelines themselves  could have led to the revocation of local sponsorship. For a Palestinian journalist in Gaza, that would have meant the loss of vital income in a blockaded territory where unemployment hovers around 50%.

In many respects, Gaza became a much safer place for reporters after the Hamas takeover, when the group imposed order and put an end to kidnappings and factional violence. But as Hamas consolidated control  and went on to fight four wars and countless smaller battles with Israel  it steadily imposed more and more restrictions on media.

In recent years, Hamas has required journalists to apply for advance approval to film in certain locations, such as the Gaza fishing port, the beach and the gold market.

Hamas has also barred Palestinians from working for Israeli media or providing services to them. Palestinians are also barred from giving interviews to Israeli outlets.

___

Krauss reported from Ottawa, Ontario.
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  A southwest Iowa company that makes metal castings used by military contractors in helicopters and other equipment has reached a settlement in a lawsuit alleging the company failed to test the castings and falsely certified test results over seven years.

Wellman Dynamics, a Creston company that manufactures large metal castings used by military contractors including Bell Helicopter, Sikorsky Aircraft and Boeing Co. will pay $500,000 in restitution to the U.S. government to settle the allegations, court documents indicate.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court against Wellman after employee Bradley Keller filed a complaint under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Keller had worked in areas of the factory responsible conducting various tests on the metal to ensure it met quality standards. He said after he reported the improper testing and falsification of records between 2014 and 2021 he was laid off, but documents indicated he was later rehired.

Keller will receive $90,000 out of the settlement amount under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claim act. The company also must pay him $15,000 to settle a retaliation claim and his attorneys more than $63,000.

A U.S. Department of Justice official said in a statement that proper testing is critical for ensuring the proper performance of the equipment that is provided to the military.

We will hold accountable those who knowingly falsify or fail to conduct required tests and put our military at risk. said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the departments civil division.

In the settlement agreement the company denies the allegations but indicated the case was settled to avoid the delay, uncertainty, inconvenience and expense of protracted litigation of the claims.

The company and its attorney did not immediately reply to a message.

The agreement does not prevent the government from investigating further and pursuing criminal charges against some individuals if warranted. The company must cooperative with any such investigation.
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JERUSALEM (AP)  Israeli troops killed three Palestinian militants and wounded dozens in a shootout that erupted during an arrest raid in the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday.

The shootout came a day after a cease-fire ended three days of fighting between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group in the Gaza Strip.

In a separate incident in the West Bank city of Hebron, the Palestinian Health Ministry said a 17-year-old was killed by Israeli fire. The Israeli military said forces were responding with live fire, among other means, to a violent protest.

Israeli police said security forces encircled the home of Ibrahim al-Nabulsi, who they say was wanted for a string of shootings in the West Bank earlier this year. They confirmed that al-Nabulsi and another Palestinian militant were killed in a shootout at the scene, and that troops found arms and explosives in his home.

The Israeli military said that troops came under attack from Palestinians throwing rocks and explosives, and that soldiers responded with live fire. It confirmed Palestinians were shot, but did not elaborate on their condition.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said three people were killed  al-Nabulsi, Islam Sabouh and Hussein Jamal Taha  and at least 40 were wounded.

The armed wing of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbass Fatah party, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, later claimed the three as its members and vowed retaliation. The Fatah party said the organization mourns its martyred sons and said the three had sacrificed their lives in defense of our great people and their right to freedom and independence.

Israel has conducted near nightly arrest raids in the West Bank in recent months as part of a crackdown on Palestinian militant groups, foremost Islamic Jihad, in the aftermath of a string of deadly attacks targeting Israelis earlier this year that left 19 people dead. Dozens of Palestinians have been killed in clashes with Israeli troops during these arrest raids.

Last week, Israel arrested Bassam al-Saadi, a senior Islamic Jihad militant in the West Bank city of Jenin, during one of the nightly operations. The group said it was going on alert, and on Friday, Israel launched a series of strikes on Islamic Jihad targets in the Gaza Strip in what it said was a response to an imminent threat by the militant group.

During the three days of Gaza fighting, at least 46 Palestinians were killed, including 16 children and four women, and 311 were wounded, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. Twelve of those killed were Islamic Jihad militants, one was from a smaller armed group, and two were Hamas-affiliated policemen who were not taking part in the fighting, according to the armed factions.

Israel estimated that a total of 47 Palestinians were killed, including 14 killed by misfired Islamic Jihad rockets. It said 20 militants and seven civilians died in Israeli airstrikes and that it was still investigating six deaths.

Israels caretaker prime minister, Yair Lapid, applauded the cooperation by Israeli security personnel and said that al-Nabulsis killing was another step in our uncompromising struggle against terrorism.

Nabil Abu Rdeneh, a spokesman for Abbas, warned that continued violence could further ignite the region, and accused the Israeli government of shedding Palestinian blood to secure internal political capital ahead of November parliamentary elections.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked about the killings Tuesday, said: Were, obviously, very concerned about the increased violence that weve seen in the occupied West Bank, including the killing today of three Palestinians in Nablus and one in Hebron following clashes with Israeli security forces.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls on all sides to demonstrate calm and calls on the relevant authorities to carry out independent, transparent investigations into all deaths and injuries, Dujarric said.

Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war and the Palestinians seek it as the heartland of their future state. Israel views the West Bank as the biblical and historical heartland of the Jewish people, and has constructed dozens of settlements, now home to over 400,000 Israelis.

The Palestinians and much of the international community consider Israels West Bank settlements a violation of international law and an obstacle to a peaceful resolution of the decades-long conflict.

___

Associated Press writer Edith M. Lederer contributed from the United Nations.
ROODHOUSE  A weekend Facebook post warned Roodhouse residents that "all water activity at the Roodhouse Rez is off limits until further notice."

On Monday morning, however, Roodhouse Mayor Tom Martin was left wondering what was going on at the Roodhouse Rez, which is how residents routinely refer to Roodhouse Park Lake.

"I drove out there Sunday and the water looked clear to me," Martin said. "I guess the caretakers sent out the information on the lake."

Jayette Bolinski, director of communications for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, said the department had no information about the situation but was looking into it.

Martin said he had contact with DNR officials late last week but that nothing about closing the lake to recreation was discussed. The DNR did suggest keeping people out of the lake, but Martin noted that activities such as swimming and wading are always prohibited in the lake.

"We didn't think there was anything to worry about, but it is better to stay out of it for a few days until it clears out," Martin said. " We are trying to get the DNR out to test the water and give us the all-clear sign."

The weekend Facebook post said all activity such as fishing, boating and cast net throwing were prohibited because the lake has "planktonic algae in it at the moment." The initial post on Facebook had been shared several times.

The Roodhouse Rez, which is a little more than 1 mile southeast of the city, is a small lake covering around 10 acres. There is a gravel boat ramp and only small electric motors are allowed on boats. In addition to fishing, there are areas for picnicking.

If people do catch fish out of the lake, they should clean them thoroughly, Martin said.

"Planktonic algae blooms are especially dangerous because they can plague anything from small ponds to large lakes with excess nutrients," the Facebook post said.

But planktonic algae isn't necessarily a bad thing. Algae can be harmful but it also is essential to bodies of water.

According to the DNR website, planktonic algae are the primary oxygen producers in most bodies of water and the primary food source at the base of the aquatic food chain. Most species of algae do not pose a threat to organisms. However, some planktonic algae species produce harmful toxins that can affect humans and animals.

Planktonic algae float on the water and can be confused with muddy water. It causes the water to look green, brown or reddish in color.

A severe algal bloom can kill fish because the death and decay of the algae remove oxygen from the water. Exposure to toxic blue-green algae blooms can harm aquatic life and humans if they swallow or touch the water. Toxic green algae blooms can create airborne droplets that are dangerous if inhaled.

Exposure to high levels of blue-green algae and their toxins can cause diarrhea, nausea or vomiting; skin, eye or throat irritation; and allergic reactions or breathing difficulties. Pets and livestock can become sick or die if they consume large amounts of water containing algae blooms.
Farmers Market: 7 a.m.-noon, Pathway Plaza, 1905 W. Morton Ave. Prices vary. | Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday through Oct. 31. Link cards accepted.

Produce and Bakery Giveaway: 9 a.m.-noon, Jacksonville Food Center, 316 E. State St. Free | For Morgan County residents.

Free Noon Meal: 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., The Salvation Army, 331 W. Douglas Ave. | Meals in to-go containers can be picked up at side door.

Walking for Wellness: 12:30-3 p.m., First Christian Church, 2106 S. Main St. Free | Indoor walking program offered year-round Monday-Thursday. For more information, call 217-243-6445.

Simple Therapy: 2 p.m., The Hawg Pit BBQ Barn, 821 W. Main St., Grafton. | Live music.

PB & J: 2-6 p.m., Grafton Pub, 225 W. Main St. | Live music.

Spirit of Faith Soup Kitchen: 3:30-4 p.m., Spirit of Faith Soup Kitchen, 105 E. Dunlap St. Free | Serving meals to go for anyone in need.

Bluffs Market: 4-6 p.m., Bluffs downtown square. Prices vary. | Crafts, vendors, farmers market, flea market and more. Every Tuesday through Labor Day.

Wednesday

Produce and Bakery Giveaway: 9 a.m., noon, Jacksonville Food Center, 316 E. State St. Free | For Morgan County residents.

Story Time: 10 a.m., Jacksonville Public Library, 201 W. College Ave. Free | Stories and a craft. For more information, call 217-243-5435 or email clangdon@jaxpl.org.

Blood Drive: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Jacksonville Police Department, 200 W. Douglas Ave. | To donate, contact Courtney Glass at 217-479-4630 or go to bloodcenter.org and use code 60161 to locate the drive.

Free Noon Meal: 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., The Salvation Army, 331 W. Douglas Ave. | Meals in to-go containers can be picked up at side door.

Walking for Wellness: 12:30-3 p.m., First Christian Church, 2106 S. Main St. Free | Indoor walking program offered year-round Monday-Thursday. For more information, call 217-243-6445.

African American History Museum Tours: 1-4 p.m., African American History Museum, 859 Grove St. Suggested donation $5 for adults, $3 for students, free for children ages 5 and under. | Open Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday through September, or by appointment.

Commodity Food Distribution: 1:15 p.m., The Salvation Army, 331 W. Douglas Ave. Free | For income-eligible residents of Morgan County. Bring proof of residence and a box for food.

Drive-up Food Giveaway: 2 p.m., Cass County Health Clinic, 8590 St. Lukes Drive, Beardstown. Free | While supplies last.

Spirit of Faith Soup Kitchen: 3:30-4 p.m., Spirit of Faith Soup Kitchen, 105 E. Dunlap St. Free | Serving meals to go for anyone in need.

Community Walking Group: 3:30 p.m., Boyd Hospital Wellness Center, Eighth and School streets, Carrollton. Free for wellness center members, $1 for non-members. | For more information and to sign up, all Dawn at 217-942-6946, extension 1352.

County Line Dance Club Class: 6:30 p.m., The Hangout Bar & Grill, 901 W. Superior Ave. $5.

To submit items to the calendar, go to myjournalcourier.com and select calendar, or email jjcsocial@myjournalcourier.com. Items must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance.
Thomas Barwick/Getty Images

WINCHESTER  Staff at Winchester Community Swimming Pool are asking for information regarding the vandalism of one of its restrooms.

The damage occurred more than a week ago, during the weekend of July 30, assistant manager Tristan Lashmett said.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was intent on visiting Taiwan, and did so despite President Bidens misgivings and criticisms from many China experts.

The trip might not seem like a big deal to Americans, but these are not ordinary times in U.S.-China relations. That makes a Taiwan trip by a senior person in the U.S. government  in this case, the most senior in 25 years  very risky.

The timing and rationale for the trip were flawed.

Why did Pelosi go? She insists she went to demonstrate unwavering support of Taiwans democracy and confront Chinas imminent threat to Taiwans security. In the face of the Chinese Communist Partys accelerating aggression, she wrote, our congressional delegations visit should be seen as an unequivocal statement that America stands with Taiwan, our democratic partner, as it defends itself and its freedom.

But no one doubts U.S. support of Taiwans democracy; the longstanding question is how and whether the U.S. would respond if China were to attack Taiwan, given the official U.S. policy of One China. Pelosi says she supports One China, but her trip has undermined that policy by sending China the opposite message: support of Taiwans separateness, which China equates with support its independence.

I think the main reason for the trip has to do with our own political situation. Pelosi was trying to show that Democrats can be as tough on China as the Republicans. She was not going to let Republicans take the lead on defending Taiwan, especially after news of a possible trip led several Republican hawks to essentially challenge her to go. Now, in the Senate, theres a bipartisan Taiwan Policy Act that aims to designate Taiwan a major non-NATO ally  another provocation of China that Pelosis trip will help support.

Pelosis trip is the stuff of avoidable international crises: putting an opponent to the wall and forcing it to make a choice between a forceful response and a weak one.

Xi, after all, has to deal with his own political situation, in which a show of weakness can be deadly.

Pelosi's trip was a needless provocation that US allies, which above prize stability in the Taiwan Strait, do not welcome.

Instead, they and Washington must deal with an event that is a serious setback to tension-reducing efforts such as the Xi-Biden virtual summits. For some time to come, US-China relations will be dogged by the same kind of dynamic that has occurred in three previous confrontations over Taiwan, each of which could have escalated to a violent level and one of which, in 1958, came close to involving U.S. use of nuclear weapons.

Pelosi has not done Taiwan a service; she has made its security more precarious.
One year after Afghanistan, spy agencies pivot toward China View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  In a recent closed-door meeting with leaders of the agencys counterterrorism center, the CIAs No. 2 official made clear that fighting al-Qaida and other extremist groups would remain a priority  but that the agencys money and resources would be increasingly shifted to focusing on China.

One year after ending the war in Afghanistan, President Joe Biden and top national security officials speak less about counterterrorism and more about the political, economic and military threats posed by China as well as Russia. Theres been a quiet pivot within intelligence agencies, which are moving hundreds of officers to China-focused positions, including some who were previously working on terrorism.

Intelligence officials stress that the counterterrorism fight is hardly being ignored. Just a week ago, it was revealed that a CIA drone attack killed al-Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahri in Kabul. But days later, China staged large-scale military exercises and threatened to cut off contacts with the U.S. over House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taiwan. It underscored the message CIA deputy director David Cohen had delivered at that meeting weeks ago: The agencys top priority is trying to understand and counter Beijing.

The U.S. has long been alarmed by Chinas growing political and economic ambitions. China has tried to influence foreign elections, mounted campaigns of cyber and corporate espionage, and detained millions of minority Uyghurs in camps. Some experts also think Beijing will in coming years try to seize the self-ruled democratic island of Taiwan by force.

Intelligence officials have said they need more insights on China, including after being unable to definitively pinpoint the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic. Beijing has been accused of withholding information about the origins of the virus.

And the war in Ukraine has underscored Russias importance as a target. The U.S. used declassified information to expose Russian President Vladimir Putins war plans before the invasion and rally diplomatic support for Kyiv.

Supporters of the Biden administration approach note that the fact the U.S. was able to track and kill al-Zawahri is evidence of its capabilities to target threats in Afghanistan from abroad. Critics say the fact that al-Zawahri was living in Kabul, under the apparent protection of the Taliban, suggests theres a resurgence of extremist groups that America is ill-equipped to counter.

The shift in priorities is supported by many former intelligence officers and lawmakers from both parties who say its overdue. That includes people who served in Afghanistan and other missions against al-Qaida and other terrorist groups.

Rep. Jason Crow, a former Army Ranger who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, said he believed the U.S. had been overly focused on counterterrorism over the last several years.

A far greater existential threat is Russia and China, said Crow, a Colorado Democrat who serves on the House Intelligence and Armed Services committees. Terrorist groups, he said, will not destroy the American way of life  the way China can.

CIA spokesperson Tammy Thorp noted that terrorism remains a very real challenge.

Even as crises such as Russias invasion of Ukraine and strategic challenges such as that posed by the Peoples Republic of China demand our attention, CIA will continue to aggressively track terrorist threats globally and work with partners to counter them, Thorp said.

Congress has pushed the CIA and other intelligence agencies to make China a top priority, according to several people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive intelligence matters. Pushing resources toward China has required cuts elsewhere, including in counterterrorism. Specific figures were unavailable because intelligence budgets are classified.

In particular, lawmakers want more information about Chinas development in advanced technologies. Under President Xi Jinping, China has committed trillions of dollars in investment on quantum science, artificial intelligence and other technologies that are likely to disrupt how future wars are fought and economies are structured.

As part of the shift, congressional committees are trying to better track how intelligence agencies spend their funding on China, seeking more detail about how specific programs contribute to that mission, one person familiar with the matter said.

We are late, but its good that were finally changing our focus into that region, said Rep. Chris Stewart, a Utah Republican who serves on the House Intelligence Committee. That means in people, in resources, in military assets, and in diplomacy.

The CIA last year announced it would create two new mission centers  one on China, one on emerging technologies  to centralize and improve intelligence collection on those issues. The CIA is also trying to recruit more Chinese speakers and reduce wait times on security clearances to hire new people faster.

Inside the agency, many officers are learning Chinese and moving into new roles focused on China, though not all of those jobs require language training, people familiar with the matter said.

Officials note that intelligence officers are trained to adapt to new challenges and that many were moved more quickly into counterterrorism roles after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Advances from counterterrorism work  including better use of data and different sources of intelligence to build networks and identify targets  are also useful in countering Russia and China, former officers said.

Its the analytics and targeting machine that has become extraordinary, said Douglas Wise, a former CIA senior officer who was deputy chief of operations at the counterterrorism center.

The CIAs Counterterrorism Center, renamed the Counterterrorism Mission Center in a 2015 reorganization, remains a point of pride for many people who credit its work for keeping Americans safe from terrorism after Sept. 11. CIA officers landed in Afghanistan on Sept. 26, 2001, and were part of operations to displace the Taliban and find and kill leaders of al-Qaida including Osama bin Laden.

And 13 years after a double agent tricked officers pursuing al-Zawahri and blew himself up, killing seven agency employees, the CIA killed him in a strike with no reported civilian casualties.

The CIA was also involved in some of the darkest moments of the fight against terrorism. It operated secret black site jails to hold terrorism suspects, some wrongly, and was found by a Senate investigation to have used interrogation methods that amounted to torture. Elite Afghan special operations units trained by the CIA were also accused of killing civilians and violating international law.

Theres long been a debate over whether counterterrorism pulled intelligence agencies too far away from traditional spying and whether some of the CIAs work in targeting terrorists should instead be done by special forces under the military.

Marc Polymeropoulos is a retired CIA operations officer and former base chief in Afghanistan. He said he supports a greater focus on China and Russia but added, Theres no reason to diminish what we had to do.

This notion that somehow all the CT work we did, somehow that was wrong, that we took our eye of the ball  just remember on Sept. 12 what everyone was feeling, he said.

Re-orienting the agencies toward more of a focus on China and Russia will ultimately take years and require both patience and recognition that the agencys culture will take time to change, Wise said.

For decades, we have been doing counterterrorism, Wise said. Weve got to have a rational plan to make this adaptation, which doesnt take so long that our enemies can exploit a glacial process.

By NOMAAN MERCHANT

Associated Press
Nagasaki marks A-bombing anniversary amid nuclear war fears View Photo

TOKYO (AP)  Nagasaki paid tribute to the victims of the U.S. atomic bombing 77 years ago on Aug. 9, with the mayor saying Russias war on Ukraine showed the world that another nuclear attack is not just a worry but a tangible and present crisis.

Mayor Tomihisa Taue, in his speech Tuesday at the Nagasaki Peace Park, said nuclear weapons can be used as long as they exist, and their elimination is the only way to save the future of humankind.

Russias invasion of Ukraine and threat of nuclear weapons use came only a month after it and four other nuclear powers pledged in a statement that nuclear war should never be fought, Taue noted.

This has shown the world that the use of nuclear weapons is not a groundless fear but a tangible and present crisis, he said. The belief that nuclear weapons can be possessed not for actual use but for deterrence is a fantasy, nothing more than a mere hope.

As in Hiroshima, Russia and its ally Belarus were not invited to the memorial event in Nagasaki.

The United States dropped the worlds first atomic bomb on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, destroying the city and killing 140,000 people. It dropped a second bomb three days later on Nagasaki, killing another 70,000. Japan surrendered on Aug. 15, ending World War II and Japans nearly half-century of aggression in Asia.

Participants, including diplomats from nuclear states, observed a moment of silence at 11:02 a.m., the moment the bomb exploded above the southern Japanese city on Aug. 9, 1945.

Although Russia last week tried to roll back on Putins warning, fears of a third atomic bombing have grown amid Russias threats of nuclear attack since its war on Ukraine began in February. Russia last week shelled a Ukrainian city close to Europes largest nuclear plant.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said, Even though we face a severe security environment, we must pursue the history of non-nuclear use and make Nagasaki the last place of nuclear attack.

Japanese officials worry that the conflict may embolden China to be even more assertive in East Asia, and the government is pushing to further step up its military capability and spending.

Japan renounces its own possession, production or hosting of nuclear weapons, but as a U.S. ally Japan hosts 50,000 American troops and is protected by the U.S. nuclear umbrella. Still, Russias nuclear threat has prompted some hawkish lawmakers in the governing party have also proposed a possibility of nuclear sharing with the United States.

Taue said discussions about nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation over the past decades have not been put into practice and trust in the 1968 Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons has become tenuous.

We must recognize that ridding ourselves of nuclear weapons is the only realistic way of protecting the Earth and humankinds future, Taue said.

Taue urged Japans government to exercise leadership in pursuing peace diplomacy that does not rely on nuclear deterrence.

Nuclear weapons are not deterrence, said Takashi Miyata, an 82-year-old survivor, or hibakusha. He said possible nuclear sharing is the opposite of our wish.

Air-raid sirens and scenes of bombed-out Ukraine reminded him of the pika don, or the flash and explosion of the atomic bombing that Miyata experienced at age 5. His uncle and aunt died in the bombing, and his father died of leukemia five years later. Miyata also developed cancer 10 years ago.

Many survivors of the bombings have lasting injuries and illnesses resulting from the explosions and radiation exposure and have faced discrimination in Japan.

As of March, 118,935 survivors are certified as eligible for government medical support, according to the health and welfare ministry. Their average age now exceeds 84.

By MARI YAMAGUCHI

Associated Press
Estonia, Finland want Europe to end Russian tourist visas View Photo

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  The leaders of Estonia and Finland want fellow European countries to stop issuing tourist visas to Russian citizens, saying they should not be able to take vacations in Europe while the Russian government carries out a war in Ukraine.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas wrote Tuesday on Twitter that visiting Europe is a privilege, not a human right and that it is time to end tourism from Russia now.

A day earlier, her counterpart in Finland, Sanna Marin, told Finnish broadcaster YLE that it is not right that while Russia is waging an aggressive, brutal war of aggression in Europe, Russians can live a normal life, travel in Europe, be tourists.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy went further in a Washington Post interview Monday, saying all Western countries should ban Russian tourists.

Estonia and Finland both border Russia and are members of the European Union, which banned air travel from Russia after it invaded Ukraine. But Russians can still travel by land to both countries and apparently are then taking flights to other European destinations.

The calls for a travel ban have sparked outrage within Russia, from both the Kremlin and its critics. Opposition-minded public figures condemned the comments in social media posts as fueling Moscows anti-Western propaganda and being unhelpful in stopping the war.

I think that over time, common sense will somehow manifest itself, and those who made such statements will come to their senses, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday.

YLE reported last week that Russian companies have started offering car trips from St. Petersburg to the airports of Helsinki and Lappeenranta in Finland, which have direct connections to several places in Europe. Russias second-largest city is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the Finnish capital.

Visas issued by Finland are valid across most of Europes travel zone, known as the Schengen area which is made up of 26 countries: 22 EU nations plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Normally, people and goods move freely between these countries without border checks. Nineteen other countries outside this travel area allow in foreigners using a Schengen visa.

Finland just resumed accepting applications for tourist visas in Russia on July 1, lifting monthslong travel restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some EU countries no longer issue visas to Russians, including Latvia, which made that decision this month because of the war.

The visa issue is expected be discussed at an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers on Aug. 31, YLE reported.

I would believe that in future European Council meetings, this issue will come up even more strongly. My personal position is that tourism should be restricted, Marin told the Finnish broadcaster.

Peskov on Tuesday said calls for travel bans are usually coming from countries that Moscow has already deemed hostile and many of those countries in their hostility sink into oblivion.

Putins close associate and deputy head of Russias Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, dismissed the Estonian premiers statement, adding ominously: I just want to remind her of another saying: The fact that you are free is not your merit, but our flaw.

Zelenskyy told The Washington Post that the most important sanctions are to close the borders for Russian travelers, because the Russians are taking away someone elses land.

Russians should live in their own world until they change their philosophy, Zelenskyy said, adding that such restrictions should apply to all Russians, even those who left the country and oppose the war.

Its contrasts with what he said in March, a month after Moscow sent troops into Ukraine, when he urged Russians to leave the country to avoid funding the war with their taxes.

Asked about Zelenskyys remarks, Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, called them a statement  that speaks for itself, which Moscow views extremely negatively.

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Follow APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine.

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This story has been corrected to show that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys interview with The Washington Post was on Monday, not Tuesday.

By JAN M. OLSEN

Associated Press
Vatican cardinal honors Jewish convert, tells his own story View Photo

ROME (AP)  A Vatican cardinal marked the 80th anniversary Tuesday of the gas chamber killing of the Jewish-born Catholic convert Edith Stein by celebrating a Mass near the former Auschwitz death camp and telling the story of his own familys Jewish origins and their fate under the Nazis.

Michael Czerny is one of cardinals most closely associated with Pope Francis pontificate. A Jesuit who ministered in El Salvador, Czerny heads the Vatican office responsible for Francis priority portfolios of migration, the environment, development and social justice. A Czech-born Canadian, Czerny recently joined Francis on his landmark visit to Canada to apologize to Indigenous peoples for the Catholic Churchs role in running the countrys notorious residential schools.

On Tuesday, Czerny commemorated the anniversary of the day Stein was killed in Auschwitzs gas chambers by celebrating Mass in a nearby Carmelite convent in Oswiecim, a Polish town under Nazi German occupation during the war. There, he delivered a homily that recounted Steins story and how it intersected with his own and that of his relatives, who hailed from Brno, in the former Czechoslovakia.

Stein was a German Jew born in 1891 in Breslau, now the Polish city of Wroclaw, who converted to Catholicism in 1922 and became a nun. She joined the Carmelite order in Cologne, Germany, but was transferred to the Netherlands after the intensification of Nazi attacks in 1938. She was arrested in 1942 after Hitler ordered the arrest of Jewish converts and was sent to Auschwitz, where she was killed Aug. 9, 1942. St. John Paul II canonized Stein as a martyr in 1998 and made her a patron saint of Europe the following year.

Czerny, 76, noted that he and Stein shared their Jewish origins, the Catholic faith, a vocation to religious life, as well as the fact that Stein and Czernys maternal grandmother, Anna Hayek, were about the same age and came to a similar end.

My mothers family  both parents and two brothers  were also Catholic but shared the Jewish origins that the enemy abhorred, Czerny recalled in the text of his homily, which his office provided. My maternal grandmother Anna, my grandfather Hans and my uncles Georg and Carl Robert, were all interned in Terezin, where Hans died, Czerny said, referring to the Theresienstadt concentration camp in the former Czechoslovakia.

My grandmother and uncles were transported to Auschwitz. From here my uncles were sent to labor camps and eventually murdered there, he said.

His grandmother died of typhus in 1945, but the family has no trace of where she was buried.

Czernys mother, a baptized Catholic, was forced to work as a farm laborer during the war because of her Jewish ancestry and was jailed in Theresienstadt and Leipzig for 20 months; his father was forced to work as a farm laborer because he refused to divorce her. In 1948, they moved to Canada as refugees with young Michael, who was born in 1946, and his brother, the cardinal said.

Czerny, who has made humanitarian visits to minister to refugees fleeing Ukraine on behalf of Francis, said he was honored to celebrate Stein in the year of Russias war that he said urges us to remember.

Remembering both Edith and Anna with the six million others, we mourn and repent, Lest we forget , he said. Through their intercession, we pray for peace in Ukraine and throughout the world.

By NICOLE WINFIELD

Associated Press
Chicken Ranch Rancheria Administration Office View Photo

Jamestown, CA  An appeals court judge recently sided with Chicken Ranch Rancheria and four other tribes in a lawsuit aimed at Governor Gavin Newsom and the state of California.

The Tribes argued that Governor Newsom was negotiating in bad faith on gaming compacts. An initial ruling, a year ago, was in favor of the Tribes. It was appealed by the state, and the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals also ruled in favor of the Tribes, late last month.

On a related note, the Chicken Ranch Rancheria reports that in days leading up to the ruling, the Department of the Interior (DOI) disapproved two gaming compacts (Middletown and Santa Rosa) for the second time, in part based on the issues raised in the Chicken Ranch lawsuit. Governor Newsom subsequently issued a press release blasting the DOI for disapproving these compacts, despite the DOI providing a detailed explanation for the disapproval.

Legal concerns were raised about the Governors overreaching into sovereign areas directly related to the regulation of gaming and the attempted taxation of Tribal gaming revenue.

You can read the entire 78 page Chicken Ranch Rancheria legal ruling, with more related details, here.
FAA clears Boeing to resume deliveries of 787 Dreamliner View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  Federal regulators said Monday they are satisfied with changes Boeing has made in the production of its 787 Dreamliner passenger jet, clearing the way for the company to resume deliveries.

American Airlines said it expects to get its first new 787 in more than 15 months as early as Wednesday.

The Federal Aviation Administration announcement confirmed reports late last month and came days after the agencys acting chief met with safety inspectors who oversee Boeing.

The FAA said acting Administrator Billy Nolen wanted to hear about steps Boeing has taken to fix manufacturing problems and ensure independence for Boeing employees who work with regulators.

Production of the big, two-aisle 787 has been marred by several problems including gaps between panels of the carbon-composite skin, and use of unapproved titanium parts from a supplier in Italy. Those issues prevented Boeing from delivering any of the planes for most of the last two years, and about 120 have been parked while Boeing tried to fix the production process.

The FAA said it will inspect each plane before it is approved for delivery.

American Airlines was hit particularly hard by the halt in deliveries. Earlier this year, it delayed some planned international flights because Boeing wasnt able to deliver the planes on schedule.

American said Monday that its newest 787 will come from a Boeing factory in South Carolina and is expected to begin carrying passengers in the coming weeks. American said that will make 47 active 787s in its fleet, with another 42 on order.

Shares of Boeing Co., which is based in Arlington, Virginia, gained less than 1% on Monday after being up nearly 4% earlier in the trading session.
Man convicted of fatally shooting his 2 daughters in Texas View Photo

DALLAS (AP)  A suburban Dallas man who evaded arrest for more than 12 years after the fatal shootings of his two teenage daughters in 2008 was convicted Tuesday in the killings that prosecutors said were driven by his obsessive desire for control.

Yaser Said, 65, was found guilty of capital murder in the deaths of 18-year-old Amina Said and 17-year-old Sarah Said. Prosecutors did not pursue the death penalty, so with the conviction, the judge sentenced Yaser Said to life in prison without parole.

The teens mother, Patricia Owens, told her former husband in a victim impact statement given after the verdict and sentence that she was no longer scared of him.

You can keep those evil eyes on me as long as you want. You will never break me down again, Owens said. Nor will you ever be able to hurt another person.

Prosecutor Lauren Black said in closing statements that Said manipulated and controlled that household. She said that when Saids daughters wanted to live their own lives, he could see that he was losing control. He was not going to be able to deal with that, so he took their lives, Black said.

The sisters were found shot to death in a taxi that their father had been driving that was parked near a hotel in the Dallas suburb of Irving on New Years Day in 2008. Jurors heard a 911 call Sarah Said made by cellphone, telling the operator that her father had shot her and that she was dying.

Shes screaming out from the grave right now, Black told jurors after playing the 911 call during closing statements.

Sarah Said was shot nine times and Amina Said was shot twice.

Defense attorneys, who said they would appeal the verdict, said people can have hallucinations in moments of extreme trauma, such as when they have been shot multiple times. They also said the evidence did not support a conviction, and that police were too quick to focus on Said as the suspect.

A week before they were killed, the girls and their mother had fled their home in the Dallas suburb of Lewisville and went to Oklahoma to escape Said. The sisters boyfriends also joined them. The prosecutor said the sisters had become very scared for their lives, and decided to leave after their father put a gun to Aminas head and threatened to kill her.

According to a police report, a family member told investigators that Said at one point had threatened bodily harm against one of his daughters for dating a non-Muslim.

In a letter to the judge before the trial, Said wrote that he was not happy with his daughters dating activity but he denied killing them.

Owens, who divorced Said after the slayings, testified that Said was abusive and controlling, and had convinced her to return to Texas from Oklahoma.

Owens testified that when she married Said, she was 15 and he was 29. She told him while giving her victim impact statement that hed never treated me like a real person, a wife. Instead, she said, she was just someone for him to take his anger out on.

Remember when you put the knife to my throat? I do. Remember when you pointed a gun at me? I do, she said.

Said took the stand on Monday, telling jurors that he did not kill his daughters. Said told jurors that the evening the sisters were killed, he was taking them to dinner because he wanted to solve the problem after they had left home. He said he thought someone was following them, so he had left his daughters in the taxi and fled. He said he did not turn himself in to authorities because he feared he would not get a fair trial.

Prosecutor Brandi Mitchell called his testimony absurd.

In a Dec. 21, 2007, email that was brought into evidence, Amina Said told a teacher that she and her sister planned to run away. She said they didnt want to live by the culture of their father, who was born in Egypt. Her father, she said, had made our lives a nightmare.

He will, without any drama nor doubt, kill us, the email read.

After the slayings, Said was sought on a capital murder warrant, and was placed on the FBIs most-wanted list. He was finally arrested arrested in August 2020 in Justin, about 35 miles (60 kilometers) northwest of Dallas. His son, Islam Said, and his brother, Yassim Said, were subsequently convicted of helping him evade arrest.

By JAMIE STENGLE

Associated Press
Prosecutor: Missouri man fatally shot in lawn-mowing dispute View Photo

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  A Missouri man has been charged with shooting and killing his neighbor following an argument over lawn mowing, bringing to an end years of hostility between the two, officials said.

Samuel Avery, 42, of Kansas City, was charged Monday with second-degree murder and armed criminal action in the killing of 41-year-old Warner Trotter, who was shot in his head on his front porch, the Jackson County Prosecutors office said. Trotter was declared dead at hospital.

According to court documents, Avery called police on Sunday to report that he had shot his neighbor. Officers found Avery on his porch next door and arrested him without incident.

Online court records do not list an attorney who can speak for Avery.

Police said officers had been called to the mens homes twice previously because they were arguing over Avery mowing his lawn too early in the day. No one was arrested during those incidents. According to a probable cause statement, Avery told investigators they had been arguing for 10 years.

On the day of the shooting, Trotter complained that Averys lawn mower was too loud and made a gesture with his hand that he would shoot Avery, according to court documents. Avery said he called the police and was told nothing could be done, then Trotter waved an actual gun around and said nothing would happen to him.

Hours later, Trotter and a woman returned to the home with food from a restaurant. The woman told police she was inside the house when she heard Trotter ask Avery something like, Do you have something to say?

Then she heard several shots.

Avery told police that Trotter reached for a gun before Avery started firing his weapon, according to records.

Footage from security cameras at Trotters home show him saying something to Avery then starting to enter the house when Avery fired at Trotter several times, according to the statement.

The video clearly shows Trotter did not reach for his weapon at any time, according to the probable cause statement. It also said first responding officers removed a weapon from Trotters waistband before emergency responders began treating him.

Averys bond was set at $100,000, with conditions that he be on house arrest with a drug and alcohol dependency program. He was also ordered to wear a tracking device and not to possess or be around any weapons.

By MARGARET STAFFORD

Associated Press
COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP)  A campaign to legalize recreational marijuana in Missouri gathered enough signatures to make it on the November ballot, Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft announced Tuesday.

If voters approve the constitutional amendment on marijuana, those age 21 and older could buy and grow it for personal consumption as early as this year.

We look forward to engaging with voters across the state in the coming weeks and months," LegalMo22 campaign manager John Payne said. "Missourians are more than ready to end the senseless and costly prohibition of marijuana.

Missouri voters approved medical marijuana use in 2018. Efforts to allow recreational marijuana use have failed to pass Missouri's Republican-led Legislature for years, prompting advocates to go to voters for approval instead.

Recreational marijuana is already legal in 19 states, and legalization proposals are on the ballot this fall in South Dakota and Maryland. Supporters are also trying to get measures on the ballot in Arkansas, North Dakota and Oklahoma.

Backers of the Missouri ballot proposal are highlighting a provision that would erase past marijuana-related convictions for nonviolent offenders and those whose conviction didnt include selling to minors or driving while high.

Local NAACP chapters, the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri, criminal defense lawyers and other civil rights advocacy groups endorsed automatic expungement, and it could broaden support for the initiative among Republican criminal justice advocates. Seven other states with legal recreational marijuana have also adopted automatic expungement policies.

Marijuana sales would be taxed at 6% under the Missouri measure. The tax is estimated to bring in more than $46 million during the first full year the amendment is in effect and close to $70 million the following year. Revenues would be earmarked for veterans homes, drug treatment programs and public defenders.

Cities and other municipalities could enact local sales taxes on recreational marijuana up to 3% or enact local bans on non-medical marijuana sales by a public vote.

Ashcroft said a separate proposal to allow ranked-choice voting failed to collect the roughly 170,000 voter signatures from six of the states eight congressional districts to get on the ballot.

Under that proposal, candidates from all parties would have been listed on primary ballots beginning in August 2024, meaning voters could pick from Republicans and Democrats without requesting a party-specific ballot. The top four candidates with the most votes would move on to the general election, when voters could either pick only their favorite or rank the candidates from first to last.

Better Elections spokesman Scott Charton said in a statement that proponents would honor supporters with continued work on the issue.

If we want leaders in elected office who put our country and state over their political party, we're going to have to change the system, he said.
A Southwest Airlines jet has been fixed and returned to service after a bird strike tore a 6-inch hole in the skin of the plane and damaged part of the tail section, the carrier said Thursday.

Southwest spokesman Chris Mainz told The Associated Press that nobody was hurt and at no time was the safety of the crew or customers in jeopardy.

Flight 23 took off Saturday morning from El Paso, bound for Dallas.

A large bird hit the Boeing 737 shortly after takeoff, at less than 10,000 feet, according to Mainz.

No emergency was declared, but the pilot returned to El Paso as a precaution. Passengers were booked on other flights.

"He couldn't see the damage, but knew that it was something he wanted to have our mechanics take a closer look at," Mainz said.

The damage to the fuselage turned out to be on the underside of the jet, toward the front, according to Mainz. The other damage was a minor tear in the horizontal stabilizer on the left rear of the plane.

The jet was fixed and returned to service within 24 hours, he said.

Bird strikes are common, but it was "extremely rare for that to occur," to have a tear in the skin of the plane, Mainz said.

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On the Net:

http://www.southwest.com
Killings of 4 men in U.S. Albuquerque leave Muslim community in fear: NYT

Xinhua) 13:16, August 09, 2022

NEW YORK, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Four Muslim men were killed recently in Albuquerque, the largest city in the U.S. state of New Mexico, sparking fear among the Muslim community, reported The New York Times (NYT) on Sunday.

A Muslim who attended the Islamic Center of New Mexico, the same mosque as the one attended by all the four victims, said that he may never return, citing a fear of becoming "bait," according to the report.

Other members of the Muslim community have temporarily left the state to stay with family members in other parts of the country to wait out the investigation, it said.

Hate crimes remain a concern in the United States: they rose more than 20 percent in 2021 and increased another 4.7 percent in the first half of 2022, NYT cited Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism of California State University at San Bernardino.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. health officials on Tuesday authorized a plan to stretch the nations limited supply of monkeypox vaccine by giving people just one-fifth the usual dose, citing research suggesting that the reduced amount is about as effective.

The so-called dose-sparing approach also calls for administering the Jynneos vaccine with an injection just under the skin rather than into deeper tissue  a practice that may rev up the immune system better. Recipients would still get two shots spaced four weeks apart.

The highly unusual step is a stark acknowledgment that the U.S. currently lacks the supplies needed to vaccinate everyone seeking protection from the rapidly spreading virus.

That includes 1.6 million to 1.7 million Americans considered by federal officials to be at highest risk from the disease, primarily men with HIV or men who have a higher risk of contracting it. Vaccinating that group would require more than 3.2 million shots.

White House officials said the new policy would immediately multiply the 440,000 currently available as full doses into more than 2 million smaller doses.

Its safe, its effective, and it will significantly scale the volume of vaccine doses available for communities across the country, Robert Fenton, the White Houses monkeypox response coordinator, told reporters.

The Biden administration declared monkeypox a public health emergency last week in an effort to slow the outbreak that has infected more than 8,900 Americans. Officials announced a separate determination Tuesday that allows the Food and Drug Administration to expedite its review of medical products or new uses for them, such as the dose-sparing technique for Jynneos.

The FDA authorized the approach for adults 18 and older who are at high risk of monkeypox infection. Younger people can also get the vaccine if they are deemed high risk, though they should receive the traditional injection, the agency said.

FDA officials stressed that the second dose is critical to ensuring protection.

We feel pretty strongly that the two doses are necessary because, in part, we dont have any evidence that three, six, eight months later people will be adequately protected by a single dose, said Dr. Peter Marks, the FDA's vaccine chief.

Regulators pointed to a 2015 study showing that inoculation with one-fifth of the traditional two-dose vaccine generated a robust immune-system response comparable to that of the full dose. About 94% of people receiving the smaller dose had adequate levels of virus-fighting antibodies, compared with 98% of those receiving the full dose, according to the study funded by the National Institutes of Health.

The NIH is planning an additional trial of the technique. And Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said her agency is already starting to track real-world vaccine effectiveness in U.S. communities, though initial estimates will take time to generate.

But some experts and advocates worried that with little data to support the policy, it could backfire if it reduces vaccine effectiveness.

We have grave concerns about the limited amount of research that has been done on this dose and administration method, and we fear it will give people a false sense of confidence that they are protected, said David Harvey of the National Coalition of STD Directors, in a statement.

The smaller doses also require a different type of injection that penetrates only the top layer of skin, rather than the lower layer between the skin and muscle. That's a less common technique that may require extra training for some health practitioners. But infectious disease specialists said it shouldn't be a major obstacle.

Intradermal administration is certainly something that has been used for other vaccines, including the smallpox vaccine, which was administered to hundreds of millions of people during the 20th century, said Anne Rimoin, director of UCLA's Center for Global and Immigrant Health.

The shallower injection is thought to help stimulate the immune system because the skin contains numerous immunity cells that target outside invaders.

The CDC said it will provide educational materials on the technique along with a broader awareness campaign for U.S. health departments.

Rationing vaccine doses is common in Africa and other parts of the world with limited health resources. In recent years the World Health Organization has endorsed the strategy to address outbreaks of yellow fever, polio and other diseases.

This is not an uncommon situation said Dr. William Moss of Johns Hopkins Vaccine Access Center. It comes down to the public health decision-making: In the midst of an outbreak where you have insufficient supply, do you make this tradeoff?

Both the U.K. and Canada have adopted a single-dose vaccine strategy prioritizing people who face the highest risk from monkeypox. And health departments in several large U.S. cities adopted a similar strategy amid limited supplies, including New York, San Francisco and Washington.

Officials said Tuesday that anyone who previously received a full first dose can get the smaller amount for their second dose.

U.S. officials have shipped more than 625,000 full vaccine doses to state and local health departments. So far the shots have been recommended for people who have already been exposed to monkeypox or are likely to get it due to recent sexual contacts in areas where the virus is spreading.

The Biden administration has come under fire for not quickly marshaling millions more doses from the strategic national stockpile. Officials have ordered 5 million shots since July, but most aren't expected to be delivered until 2023. Under the new dosing strategy that would represent 25 million doses.

The U.S. owns bulk vaccine ingredients equivalent to 16.1 million doses under contracts with Danish manufacturer Bavarian Nordic. But the material needs to be sealed in vials, a process thats expected to take months.

The FDA approved the Jynneos vaccine in 2019 to prevent smallpox and monkeypox based, in part, on studies in monkeys. Animals that received the two-dose vaccination were more than twice as likely to survive than those who didn't after being infected with monkeypox, according to FDA labeling.

Additional human studies showed people who received Jynneos had an immune response similar to those who received an older smallpox vaccine. But Jynneos hasn't been tested in humans with either monkeypox or its relative smallpox, which was eradicated decades ago.

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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Its been one year since beloved San Antonio comedian and former TV personality Cleto Rodriguez was released from the hospital after his grueling fight with COVID-19. Rodriguez first contracted the illness in July 2021, along with the rest of his family. All of them were unvaccinated at the time.

Rodriguez tells MySA that his lungs were severely damaged and are taking a little longer to heal. He says he still cant walk fast or run just yet. Rodriguez also says he has brain fog where he cant remember some things.

He spent about three weeks in the ICU and six to seven months recovering at home. When he was first admitted to the hospital, Rodriguez says he was using 100 liters of oxygen.

Lynette Rodriguez

"While in the hospital, (it) was the scariest time in my life," he says.

During his time in the ICU, Rodriguez says his father-in-law, Roger, was just two doors away from him, also battling COVID-19. Unfortunately, Roger died at the age of 77.

In a show of support, San Antonio rallied to support Rodriguez and his family during that difficult time. In addition to all the get-well messages and prayers, April Ancira, vice president of Ancira Auto Group, launched a GoFundMe, which surpassed its goal of $50,000.

Screen Grab, gofundme.com

"I'm so grateful to everyone that supported me through this difficult time financially, and spiritually," Rodriguez says. "It meant so much to my family and myself! Your thoughts and prayers are what got me through!"

Though he's still dealing with some lasting effects of the virus, hes back to doing what he loves most  making people laugh.

"I have been working on getting back to some normalcy," he says. "I have a new Internet radio broadcast/podcast with my friend Rita Hernandez (Live on air with Rita) called 'Rita and Cleto Show.'"

Rodriguez also says hes still performing his stand-up comedy show at Las Chiladas Mexican Restaurant. Hes also been keeping busy with promoting his newest comedy special now on Amazon Prime called Cleto Is My Real Name! And thats not all, hes also working on his next comedy special for Dry Bar Comedy.

Express-News file photo

The biggest takeaway from this experience, Rodriguez says, is hes learning to appreciate life a little more.

"I don't sweat the small stuff as much!" he says. "I find myself embracing every single moment of my life! I actually take time to literally smell the roses! I thank God for every day and the people he puts in my path! I also don't take breathing for granted anymore! Thank you, San Antonio for all of your love and support! I'm eternally grateful!"
Priscilla Aguirre, MySA.com

When it comes to spooky season, one new coffee shop in San Antonio is making it year-round. Coffee House of Hel recently opened its business on the city's Northwest Side, displaying all its haunting decor.

Entering if you dare, you're welcomed with scary movie characters like Chucky from Child's Play. Husband and wife duo Helen and Robert Hinojos brought their horror coffee business from El Paso to its new location on Huebner Road less than a month ago. The pair told MySA that they moved for family and wanted to bring their House of Hel with them.
There was a lot of political news coming out of Dallas this weekend as far-right, conservative figureheads had a lot to say at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Most of the wild highlights made the rounds on social media before making headlines, most of which had people saying conservatives are "saying the quiet things really loud."

The tweet that went viral Monday morning, August 8, was a six second clip of a digital banner that flashed across a stage at CPAC on Sunday, August 7, which the announcer reads aloud: "Ladies and gentlemen, 'We Are All Domestic Terrorists.'"

The banner was introducing the name of a panel that supposedly was to to be "tongue-in-cheek," Texas Monthly reported. One of the panelists was Julie Pickren, a state board of education candidate from Houston who attended the MAGA rally in Washington D.C. on January 6, 2021.

Whether it was casual transphobia from Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, or foreign leaders who have promoted white supremacist ideologies, here's a brief run-through of what happened at CPAC Texas this weekend.

"My pronouns are kiss my a**"

This weekend, Cruz continued to attack gender identity by mocking pronouns at CPAC by repeating a remark he made at the college-aged conservative conference Turning Point USA in Tampa, Florida, in June.

"My name is Ted Cruz, and my pronouns are kiss my ass," Cruz shouted.

The remark, seen in the video above, was met with cheers from the Texas audience.

Brandon Bell/Getty Images

An odd display

There was a "demonstration" at CPAC that featured a man crying inside of a fake jail cell on Friday, August 5. That man was Brandon Straka, a self-proclaimed liberal turned conservative and fan of former president Donald Trump, who founded the #WalkAway campaign. Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene joined Straka in the jail cell while people outside prayed over them.

Straka told the Daily Mail in the video above that he felt people who participated in the January 6 riots and were convicted on various charges were "suffering unduly."

It should be noted that Straka himself was sentenced to three months of home detention for his involvement in the January 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol. Leaked court documents also show that Straka provided information to the FBI on other riot participants.

"Keep men out of women's sports"

Another CPAC clip that went viral was when Trump called former University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines to the stage on Saturday, August 6, when speaking against transgender athletes participating in women's sports, misgendering them when saying "We will keep men out of women's sports."

The video tweeted by Ron Filipkowski, a Republican turned Democrat attorney, alleges that Gaines flinched and pulled away from Trump when he tried to kiss her.

"Basically all I want to say is that it takes a brain, and common sense, and 5th-grade biology-level understanding to realize this is blatantly unfair," Gaines said after the awkward moment.

Gaines took issue with NCAA swimmer Lia Thomas being nominated for NCAA woman of the year in July. Thomas is a transgender woman.

Brandon Bell/Getty Images

"This war is a culture war"

Conservatives gave Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban a standing ovation on Thursday, Aug. 4, who a week earlier said that Europeans "do not want to become peoples of mixed race.

"This war is a culture war," Orban said. "We have to revitalize our churches, our families, our universities, and our community institutions."

Orban has also said that Muslims threatened the Christian identity, opposed same-sex couples adopting children, and supported a ban on LGBTQ+ content from schools.
Josie Norris / San Antonio Express-News

Bexar County Elections Administrator Jacquelyn Callanen told commissioners court on Tuesday, August 9, that Northside ISD has made Election Day on November 8 a student holiday and staff work day. This means that students will not be at schools that may be a polling location.

Commissioner Rebeca Clay-Flores asked Callanen about the security concerns from the community after the Uvalde school massacre where 19 students and two teachers were killed by a gunman on May 24.
By Lambert Strether of Corrente

Bird Song of the Day

Polynesian Triller, Tongatapu, Tonga.

* * *

Politics

But what is government itself, but the greatest of all reflections on human nature? James Madison, Federalist 51

They had learned nothing, and forgotten nothing. Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Perigord

Heres food for thought, had Ahab time to think; but Ahab never thinks; he only feels, feels, feels Herman Melville, Moby Dick

Abortion

The Kansas abortion vote, in one graph [WaPo]. The graph: The figure below compares the level of turnout by county (along the X-axis, with higher turnout to the right) compared to the percentage of voters in each county voting against the amendment (along the Y-axis). Counties voting to protect abortion rights are higher on the Y-axis, and those voting to restrict abortion rights are lower on the axis. The counties voting to reject the amendment tended to be reliable Democratic areas. But party affiliation alone cant explain the outcome. Even in traditionally Republican counties, more voters rejected the amendment than we would expect from partisan behavior alone. On average, counties voted no on the amendment by a margin of 9 percentage points higher than they voted for the Democrats gubernatorial candidate, Laura Kelly, in 2018. Whats more, no performed almost 20 percentage points higher by county than Democratic presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden in 2016 and 2020, respectively. Heres an example  while Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump carried conservative Ellis County by more than 70 percent of the vote in both 2016 and 2020, support for the amendment (the yes votes) in the county peaked at less than 60 percent.  Just possibly, hopeful news for Democrats in the midterms.

Biden Administration

Great mask discipline: After coughing into his hand during his entire speech, Biden proceeds to shake hands with everyone in the crowd. pic.twitter.com/ZkQnQ8QWUF  Washington Free Beacon (@FreeBeacon) August 9, 2022 To be fair, the recording doesnt show Biden coughing, and fomite transmission is very rare. But wowsers, do those guys love to share air!

2022

* * * PA: John Fetterman is Running a Test that Democrats Need to Watch [Politico]. While consultants and organizers talk about the need for rural talking points and investments in rural newspaper and radio buys, this politician has deployed the most obvious strategy for making inroads with rural voters: He showed up in every county in his state. Then, he did something really remarkable: He showed up again. That candidate is John Fetterman, who secured the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvanias May primary with a robust 59 percent of the vote and currently holds the lead in general election polling. Fetterman lived up to his Every County, Every Vote slogan. On a single Saturday in early May, for example, he visited five counties in north-central Pennsylvania, part of the states rural T  the vast area which form a big T on the map between the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metro areas and north to the New York state line.  Too lazy to find the link, but Obama attributed doing well in Iowa 2008 to simply being willing to show up. More: When it comes to abortion rights and unions, Fetterman has been known to use the word sacred, and he has been particularly vocal since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June.  See above on Kansas under Abortion. PA: John Fetterman announces first campaign rally since suffering stroke in May [CNN]. Pennsylvania Democratic Senate candidate John Fetterman will make his full return to the trail on August 12 with a rally in Erie, his first full campaign event since suffering a stroke in May. The return represents a significant step for Fetterman, who has only headlined a fundraiser and informal campaign gatherings while recovering from the stroke. Erie is a strategic spot for the Democratic candidate  Erie County voted for Barack Obama in 2008 and 2012, then switched to Donald Trump in 2016 before swinging back to Democrats in 2020 by narrowly backing Biden. Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf, with Fetterman as his running mate, carried the county by more than 20 points in 2018. PA: Pennsylvania Senate Race: Fetterman leads Oz in new poll [WHTM]. A new Pennsylvania Senate Race poll shows Democrat John Fetterman holding a double-digit lead over Republican Mehmet Oz. The poll was conducted by Momentive/SurveyMonkey for Center Street PAC, a nonpartisan political action committee focused on promoting rational governance and combatting extremism. Of the 1,206 voters recorded for the poll between July 29 and August 1, Fetterman received 47% to Ozs 30% with 23% undecided, a 17% gap between Fetterman and Oz. Ozs support grew to 38% among likely voters, however, Fettermans support also grew among likely voters to 52%. Fetterman also received 17% support from voters who supported Donald Trump in 2020. PA: Fetterman Tries to Weirdify Dr. Oz in Senate Race  and Builds Polling Lead [Bloomberg]. That contentious primary and Fettermans onslaught have left Oz with a serious enthusiasm gap. Only 35% of Oz supporters back him enthusiastically, and 45% say they support him only reluctantly, according to the Fox News poll. For Fetterman, 68% of his support is enthusiastic and only 18% say they have reservations. Still, its Oz whos had control of the ground war for the past two months. His team says the former surgeon has made more than 120 general election campaign stops and traveled 2,463 miles in July alone while Fetterman was recuperating.  True enough. Those miles havent added up to much, have they? Still, its not even Labor Day yet.

2024

Trumps Mar-a-Lago home searched by FBI in unprecedented move [Politico]. Two sources familiar with the matter said top Biden White House officials were not given advance notice of the raid, which could potentially alter the course of both the upcoming midterms and an eventual Trump-Biden rematch in 2024. Oh, puh-leeze. More: Though the investigation of Trumps handling of presidential records has been percolating for months, it has largely remained in the background while the Jan. 6 select committee built a case that Trump committed crimes to disrupt the transition of power after his defeat in the 2020 election. The National Archives and Records Administration had confirmed in February that it had sought to recover 15 boxes of records from Mar-a-Lago that it deemed improperly removed, including some marked as classified national security information. The Archives confirmed at the time that it had been in touch with the Justice Department about the recovered documents. At the time, the Archives said it had had ongoing communications with Trumps team about recovering missing presidential records.  Im not sure how this fits into the theory of the case, if in fact there is one. Surely we arent going to dwindle from a charge of insurrection to a violation of the Presidential Records Act? Also, if I have this right, if Trump is guilty of insurrection, he cant run, under the Fourteenth Amendment. The political payoff for Democrats is obvious. But I dont think a violation of the Presidential Records Act has an equivalent payoff. And speaking of records, we didnt indict Clinton for running an unsecured server out of the bathroom in her home while in office. So were going to indict Trump? (For the but her emails crowd, that clever slogan obscures, as it is meant to, the real issue: The unsecured server.) The blogger who broke the story: Scoop  The Federal Bureau of Investigation @FBI today executed a search warrant at Mar-a-Lago, two sources confirm to @Fla_Pol. "They just left," one source said. Not sure what the search warrant was about. TBH, Im not a strong enough reporter to hunt this down, but its real. pic.twitter.com/hMsGhlVp3d  Peter Schorsch (@PeterSchorschFL) August 8, 2022 Not to preen, but Yves would definitely have hunted this down. FBI searches Trump safe at Mar-a-Lago for possible classified documents [WaPo]. Searching a former presidents property to look for possible evidence of a crime is highly unusual and would require approval at the top levels of the Justice Department. It represents a historic moment in Trumps tortured relationship with the Justice Department, both in and out of the White House. A department spokeswoman declined to comment when asked whether Attorney General Merrick Garland approved the search. The FBI also declined to comment. Trump nominated the current head of the FBI, Christopher A. Wray, to the position in 2017, after firing the previous FBI director, James B. Comey, amid a probe into whether any Trump campaign advisers had conspired with Russian operatives to influence the 2016 election. Trump is such a stone fascist he cant even appoint a head of the Secret Police whos loyal to him. And: It was not immediately clear on Monday why FBI agents would conduct a search related to the documents many months after the 15 boxes of material were retrieved. A sitting president is the top classification authority in the government, giving that person far more leeway than most government employees in deciding what is and isnt classified.  Perhaps theres some major event coming up in a few months? Perhaps some other investigation didnt pan out? A good question: Dear journalists, you are asking the wrong questions. The FBI going to Trump's house to search for classified documents isn't the bombshell. Why was Trump still holding on to classified documents after 565 days? If the documents incriminated him, why not just destroy them?  Christopher Bouzy (@cbouzy) August 9, 2022 (I dont believe the stories on Trump flushing documents down a toilet. For one thing, hes germaphopic, so what if the toilet get blocked? For another, Trumps New York real estate: The way to hide a document is to give it to your lawyer. Judge who approved FBI raid on Mar-a-Lago once linked to Jeffrey Epstein [New York Post]. The Florida federal magistrate judge who signed off on a search warrant authorizing the FBI raid of former President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort left the local US Attorneys office more than a decade ago to rep employees of convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein who had received immunity in the long-running sex-trafficking investigation of the financier. Sources tell The Post that Judge Bruce Reinhart approved the warrant that enabled federal agents to converge on the palatial South Florida estate on Monday in what Trump called an unannounced raid on my home. Reinhart was elevated to magistrate judge in March 2018 after 10 years in private practice. That November, the Miami Herald reported that he had represented several of Epsteins employees  including, by Reinharts own admission to the outlet, Epsteins pilots; his scheduler, Sarah Kellen; and Nadia Marcinkova, who Epstein once reportedly described as his Yugoslavian sex slave. Kellen and Marcinkova were among Epsteins lieutenants who were granted immunity as part of a controversial 2007 deal with federal prosecutors that allowed the pervert to plead guilty to state charges rather than federal crimes. Epstein wound up serving just 13 months in county jail and was granted work release.  Florida Man Grants Warrant. I dont want to draw the yarn too tight on the diagram. But a lot of people involved in this have form, and not just Trump. * * * Hear Me Out: Trump Wont Run Again [Slate]. These days, it seems, no national reporter wants to be seen, once again, predicting ol Donny wont be able to wriggle his way out of THIS jam. Those jams currently include continued unpopularity among the general electorate, falling support in the Republican Party, rising potential rivals in that party, public hearings that have exposed his extraordinary level of responsibility for the mob violence on Jan. 6, a civil case set to go to trial next year over an allegation that Trump committed rape, a civil investigation in New York that is pursuing allegations of fraudulent business practices against the Trump Organization, and a series of state and federal criminal investigations over Trumps actions surrounding Jan. 6. The point is that it should be easy to view Trump as an incredibly weakened figure who has better odds of ending up in an orange jumpsuit or losing his fortune in a lawsuit than returning to the White House. However, almost nobody in the national media seems to report it that way.. To me, Trump will be a politically crippled figure heading into the 2024 primary. At his most dangerous, he will be a political albatross hanging around the neck of the Republican Party, tearing it apart.  The Appeal of Ron DeSantis [The American Mind]. Hagiography on a fund-raising letter, certainly a new thing: Our country is currently facing a great threat. A new enemy has emerged from the shadows that seeks to destroy and intimidate their way to a transformed state, and country, that you and I would hardly recognize. This enemy is the radical vigilante woke mob that will steamroll anything and anyone in their way. Their blatant attacks on the American way of life are clear and intensifying: stifling dissent, public shaming, rampant violence, and a perverted version of history.  Dunno how you characterize a billionaire as a member of a mob, but here we are. In fact, the author agrees: DeSantis tells us the enemy is a radical vigilante woke mob. I am not certain this is the best way to describe the enemy, which is not, in fact, a bunch of outlaws. It is, as DeSantis later acknowledges, a loose confederation of the countrys major institutions, in his words, media, educational institutions, corporate boards, professional sports, foundations, and professional institutions. I would add to this list the Democratic party and the administrative state. I call this confederation the Woke CommunistsWoke Comms for short which is a modern-day decentralized totalitarian regime. Like all such regimes, the Woke Comms aim to control, not just politics, but all aspects of public and private life.  One of the funnier aspects of conservative discourse is that they have  do not seem not to have, but do not have  what communism actually is. Do you hear any members of this confederation (hmm) advocate for ownership of the means of production by the working class? No? Then no communists. Bury My Heart at Jerking Knee, a book I must read one of these days.

Republican Funhouse

MTG wants my vote (1): DEFUND THE FBI!  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) August 9, 2022 MTG wants my vote (2): Since the CIA is running the war in Ukraine that Americans dont want to be in and leading the air strikes to kill Al Qaeda terrorists, they should be giving the speech tonight and taking questions from the press. Put Joe to bed early with a dose of Ivermectin. 5/5  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) August 1, 2022 Lots of MTG views I could never be converted to in a million years. But how come shes getting these things right, and not one single Democrat is? Im so old I remember when Democrats didnt love cops and spooks!

Democrats en Deshabille

I have moved my standing remarks on the Democrat Party (the Democrat Party is a rotting corpse that cant bury itself) to a separate, back-dated post, to which I will periodically add material, summarizing the addition here in a live Water Cooler. (Hopefully, some Bourdieu.) It turns out that defining the Democrat Party is, in fact, a hard problem. I do think the paragraph that follows is on point all the way back to 2016, if not before: The Democrat Party is the political expression of the class power of PMC, their base (lucidly explained by Thomas Frank in Listen, Liberal!). It follows that the Democrat Party is as unreformable as the PMC is unreformable ; if the Democrat Party did not exist, the PMC would have to invent it. If the Democrat Party fails to govern, thats because the PMC lacks the capability to govern . (PMC modulo class expatriates, of course.) Second, all the working parts of the Party reinforce each other. Leave aside characterizing the relationships between elements of the Party (ka-ching, but not entirely) those elements comprise a network  a Flex Net? An iron octagon?  of funders, vendors, apparatchiks, electeds, NGOs, and miscellaneous mercenaries, with assets in the press and the intelligence community. Note, of course, that the class power of the PMC both expresses and is limited by other classes; oligarchs and American gentry (see industrial model of Ferguson, Jorgensen, and Jie) and the working class spring to mind. Suck up, kick down. * * *

Realignment and Legitimacy

The successor ideology: If you ever doubt that you can change your path in life, just remember that this person went on to become the Senate's top defender of hedge funders and private equity #inspiring #inspiration pic.twitter.com/dG7li95DqZ  Dan Amira (@DanAmira) August 8, 2022 Meanwhile, or rather by design, private equity rolls right along, good job Democrats. McCarthy Says House Investigation of Hunter Biden Will Include U.S. Intel Chiefs [National Review]. House minority leader Kevin McCarthy said the chambers investigation into Hunter Biden will include a probe of U.S. intelligence agencies and chiefs who likely knew about his foreign business dealings while his father, Joe Biden, was vice president. He added that House Republicans want to question former intelligence agency officials who signed onto an open letter in October 2020 dismissing the New York Posts reporting about the contents of the younger Bidens recovered laptop as Russian disinformation.  Excellent. I wish the Republicans would stop giving me reasons to vote for them.

#COVID19

 Relative Pandemic Severity in Canada and Four Peer Nations During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic [medRxiv]. The Conclusion: Canada outperformed peer countries that aimed for mitigation, rather than elimination, of SARS-CoV-2 in the first two years of the pandemic, likely because of a more stringent public health response to disease transmission. This resulted in substantial numbers of lives saved and economic costs averted. However, comparison with Australia demonstrates that an elimination focus would have allowed Canada to save tens of thousands of lives, and would have saved substantial economic costs.  The United States, naturally, was the worst performer of all the Five Eyes countries considered here. But speaking of Australia:

I think its important to remember that when the going got really tough, Australias leaders got together and worked out a way to stop trying at the same time so none of them could be held responsible.  Covid is Airborne in schools (@AugersMonster) August 9, 2022

Sounds familiar!

* * *

 Once again on the teleology that viruses necessarily evolve away from virulence:

* Viruses do not automatically evolve to become less virulent. That is a myth. What is under selection is transmission and/or immune escape. Virulence is secondary. * The landscape in which the virus evolves is changing host immunity and behaviour change.  T. Ryan Gregory (@TRyanGregory) August 9, 2022

* * *

* * *

If you missed it, heres a post on my queasiness with CDC numbers, especially case count, which I (still) consider most important, despite what Walenskys psychos at CDC who invented community levels think. But these are the numbers we have.

* * *

Case Count

Case count for the United States:

This looks hopeful, but today the drop is in California.

Cases are undercounted, one source saying by a factor of six, Gottlieb thinking we only pick up one in seven or eight.) Hence, I take the case count and multiply it by six to approximate the real level of cases, and draw the DNC-blue Biden Line at that point. The previous count was ~111,650. Today, its ~105,500 and 105,500 * 6 = a Biden line at 633,000. per day. Thats rather a lot of cases per day, when you think about it. (Remember these data points are weekly averages, so daily fluctuations are smoothed out.) The black Fauci Line is a counter to triumphalism, since it compares current levels to past crises. At least we have confirmation that the extraordinary mass of case anecdotes weve seen have a basis in reality. However, Im not seeing the volume of anecdotes I did on the Twitter. What are readers experiencing?

Regional case count for four weeks:

The South:

The South (minus Texas and Florida):

The West:

Todays national decline is due mainly to California.

Positivity

From the Walgreens test positivity tracker, August 5:

0.3%. (I wonder if theres a Keynesian Beauty Contest effect, here; that is, if people encounter a sympotomatic person, whether in their social circle or in normal activity, they are more likely to get a test, because they believe, correctly, that its more likely they will be infected.) Starting to look like positivity has peaked, at least for Walgreens test population.

Transmission

NOTE: I shall most certainly not be using the CDCs new Community Level metric. Because CDC has combined a leading indicator (cases) with a lagging one (hospitalization) their new metric is a poor warning sign of a surge, and a poor way to assess personal risk. In addition, Covid is a disease you dont want to get. Even if you are not hospitalized, you can suffer from Long Covid, vascular issues, and neurological issues. For these reasons, case counts  known to be underestimated, due to home test kits  deserve to stand alone as a number to be tracked, no matter how much the political operatives in CDC leadership would like to obfuscate it. That the green map (which Topol calls a capitulation and a deception) is still up and being taken seriously verges on the criminal. Use the community transmission immediately below.

Here is CDCs interactive map by county set to community transmission. This is the map CDC wants only hospitals to look at, not you. For July 21, 2020:

Some blue in flyover.

NOT UPDATED Rapid Riser data, by county (CDC), August 3:

Improvements everywhere (except New Hampshire. Tourism?).

Previous Rapid Riser data:

NOT UPDATED Hospitalization data, by state (CDC), August 3:

Volatile.

Variants

Lambert here: Its beyond frustrating how slow the variant data is. I looked for more charts: California doesnt to a BA.4/BA.5 breakdown. New York does but it, too, is on a molasses-like two-week cycle. Does nobody in the public health establishment get a promotion for tracking variants? Are there no grants? Is there a single lab that does this work, and everybody gets the results from them? Additional sources from readers welcome [grinds teeth, bangs head on desk].

NOT UPDATED Variant data, national (Walgreens), July 21:

Variant data, national (CDC), July 23 (Nowcast off):

BA.5 moving along nicely.

Wastewater

Wastewater data (CDC), August 5:

Red dots improved.

Lambert: I added grey for today. Grey, not on the legend at bottom right, is No recent data. How is there no recent data for New York City, a major international hub and already the epicenter of at least one wave? How is there no for upstate New York, which only recently was full of rapdi riser counties? The same with West Virginia, Michigan, and Oregon. If I were the paranoid sort, Id theorize that CDC moved in on the only accurate data source weve got, in order to corrupt and destroy it.

Deaths

Death rate (Our World in Data):

Total: 1,059,210  1,058,738 = 472 (365 * 472 = 172,280; the new norma. Fluctuates quite a bit, but even the low numbers are bad). Quite a pop. I have added an anti-triumphalist Fauci Line. Its nice that for deaths I have a simple, daily chart that just keeps chugging along, unlike everything else CDC and the White House are screwing up or letting go dark, good job.

Naked Capitalism Cooking Community

Stats Watch

The Economy: United States Nfib Business Optimism Index [Trading Economics]. The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index in the United States edged higher to 89.9 in July of 2022 but still remained close to a 9-1/2-year low of 89.5 hit in June, pointing to a subdued level of confidence, well below the historical average of 98. 37% of business owners reported that inflation was their most important problem and 49% had job openings they could not fill.

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Todays Fear & Greed Index: 49 Neutral (previous close: 49 Neutral) [CNN]. One week ago: 40 (Fear). (0 is Extreme Fear; 100 is Extreme Greed). Last updated Aug 8 at 1:07 PM EDT.

The Gallery

But where are the bears?

I watch Lawrence Alma-Tadema go by on my timeline with horrified fascination. But ZOMG, the detail.

Zeitgeist Watch

Hard to find a better example of performative liberalism than this:

How do we mourn Covids victims while the pandemic still unfolds? An intricate wooden structure was set ablaze in Britain by its creators. Images of victims were projected onto the Brooklyn Bridge. Ribbons were tied to a church fence in South Africa.https://t.co/yL9kk2MpZF pic.twitter.com/BjIcUfEXKJ  The New York Times (@nytimes) August 9, 2022

Why not mourn the deaths by building a Corsi box and giving it away? Or giving away masks? Or setting CDC headquarters ablaze, plowing the rubble under, and then salting the earth?

Class Warfare

The world of NGOs:

.@SEWAFed, Indias largest union of informal sector workers and longtime partner of @rockefellerfdn, distributed innovative solutions to keep women salt miners hydrated. Heres how were meeting the climate challenge and #MakingOpportunityUniversal https://t.co/HJGqIKnJ5t pic.twitter.com/kZljv5a4qD  The Rockefeller Foundation (@RockefellerFdn) August 8, 2022

Innovative solutions to keep women salt miners hydrated is the most neoliberal sentence Ive ever read.

SC Starbucks manager alleges kidnapping during union confrontation, TikTok video shows otherwise [The State]. An effort to form a union at an Anderson, South Carolina, Starbucks boiled over when a manager called law enforcement alleging kidnapping and assault and the company closed the store. A TikTok video shows the Aug. 1 encounter at the Clemson Boulevard exit along Interstate 85, beginning with the manager, who was not identified, on the phone sitting at a table with a dozen or so employees standing nearby. The manager then gets up, walks past them and to the front of the store, nudging one employee as they pass. Someone says, Why are you pushing him? The manager is apparently on the phone with law enforcement. A spokesman for the Anderson County Sheriffs Office could not be reached for comment on whether charges were actually filed. Ian Hayes, a lawyer representing the Starbucks union, said at a press conference Monday the union has filed a complaint with the National Labor Relation Board charging Starbucks with illegally retaliating against workers while they engaged in permitted union activity.  What we have here is faliure to communicate.

The Jobs Effect of Ending Pandemic Unemployment Benefits: A State-Level Analysis [Federal Reserve Bank of St Louis]. A natural experiment: This note uses the asynchronous cessation of emergency unemployment benefits (EUB) in 2021 to investigate the jobs impact of ending unemployment benefits. While some states stopped providing EUB in September, other states stopped in June and July. Using the cessation month as an instrument, we estimate the causal effect on employment of reducing unemployment rolls. In the first three months following a states program termination, for every 100 person reduction in beneficiaries, state employment causally increased by about 35 persons. The effect is statistically different from zero and robust to a wide array of alternative specifications.  So what the Fed is really saying  hear me out  is that The Bearded One is not only correct on the role of the Reserve Army of Labor, but on the power relation between capital and labor generally? The whole sell your labor power to survive bit?

News of the Wired

How to Fall Out of Love With Your Lawn [New York Times]. While the lawn may be a powerful symbol of American postwar prosperity, its also an ecological dead zone thats sucking the nations aquifers dry. In this video essay we argue that its time to kill your lawn, not just to save the planet, but for your own health and sanity too. And while the idea of euthanizing such a beloved member of the family might seem harsh, we show the alternatives that could make the loss more bearable.  Oh good, a video essay. No transcript. Naturally.

What the Romans Did for Us (podcast) [Gone Medieval]. Early Medieval Britain was more Roman than we think. The Roman Empire left vast infrastructural resources, not least roads, walls and bridges. Why have they survived so well? And what did the people who lived here immediately after the Romans think of them and do with them?  Not our first Jackpot, eh? Though the current one is shaping up to be worse. Of course, the Romans left bridges and roads. Were going to leave. cellphones. Not the same. Still, fascinating show with clever historiography. Naming the most important infrastructure would be a spoiler, so I wont do it. Today is my day to be kind.

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Peter writes: Before the Hong Kong summer heat and humidity overwhelmed them, and they sadly didnt recover during our winter  as a botanical neophyte I found it surprising and beautiful that these morning glories changed color from morning to evening.

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Yves here. Recall that one of Lamberts rules of neoliberalism is Go die. So as he also often says, everything is going according to plan. Note that the study that Lynn Parramore summarizes found that mortality in America started diverging from other wealthy nations in 1980, just when neoliberal policies were getting traction.

By Lynn Parramore, Senior Research Analyst at the Institute for New Economic Thinking. Originally published at the Institute for New Economic Thinking website

With its economic and military might, America is hard to beat on technological wonders, space exploration, and top-notch universities. But when it comes to health, a fundamental prerequisite to a fulfilling life, the US isnt delivering and hasnt been for a long time. Researchers now find that the big picture of health failings is even graver than we already knew.

Piles of studies have called attention to the fact that in the country ranking number one in healthcare spending per capita, people are living shorter lives, feeling more depressed, and are more likely to skip treatment due to cost than in many developed nations. In a performance ranking of 11 high-income countries compiled by the Commonwealth Fund in 2021, the American healthcare system came in dead last, with the worst outcomes of any of the nations studied.

The only wealth is life, wrote the nineteenth-century critic John Ruskin. Recent research indicates that America may be rich in dollars, but getting poorer in ways that matter most.

In a stunning new report, Missing Americans: Early Death in the United States, 1933-2021, Boston University professor of global health and epidemiology Jacob Bor and colleagues pored over data from the CDC and a global mortality database. During the period investigated, they compared U.S. mortality rates with those of Canada, Japan, and 16 Western European countries. How many American lives would have been saved each year, asked the researchers, if U.S. mortality rates had matched those of other wealthy nations?

A staggering number, is the answer.

Millions Gone Missing

According to the researchers, the U.S. started out of the gate in 1933 as a global health frontrunner, showing a significant advantage in mortality rates over the peer countries studied. But starting in the 1970s, something went awry. Overall, Americans began to die at higher rates than their peers, a trend that grew steadily and picked up steam in the 2000s.

By the year 2019, the number of annual excess deaths had reached a stunning 656,353. Bor and his colleagues refer to these people who died as missing Americans  the friends, family members, and colleagues who would still be with us if only modern U.S. healthcare and social policy lived up to their early promise.

Consider, the figure of 656,353 missing Americans is the number of excess deaths just in the year 2019 alone. In a single year, we lost  needlessly  more than the population of Detroit, Las Vegas, or Baltimore. More than Atlanta and Miami combined. And this was before the pandemic. In 2021, the number of missing Americans swelled to 1,092,293  a whole lot more than you could put on milk cartons. Even worse: half of them were under age 65.

Bor and his fellow researchers found that on average, not only were there more Americans dying relative to their peers abroad, the deaths were becoming younger.

These are human beings who didnt have to leave us. People who had children, elders, and neighbors to look after. Contributions to make. Love and laughter to share. The researchers found a haunting way to help us envision the profound depth of the tragedy. Based on the age at which Americans succumbed and the number of years they could have been expected to live had they been born in Finland, Spain, Japan, or the other countries studied, Bor and colleagues tabulate that in a single year, 2021, America sustained 25 million years of life lost.

Again, the figure of 25 million years of life lost is only for the year 2021. In 2022, as even more people die at 60 instead of 80, millions more future years of life will never be lived. The coronavirus is supposed to prey most viciously on the elderly, but in America, people still in their working years have been dropping away at higher rates during the pandemic than in peer nations  as they have been for years. Unsurprisingly, Black and Native Americans make up a disproportionate share of those vanished years and lives.

What Changed?

Why, in a country with so much to spend  and so much spent on medical care  are so many lives being cut short? How did we start out so well and end up so badly?

Bor notes that the American mortality advantage in the late 1930s and 1940s was impacted by the high death rates in peer countries due to WWII and that the disadvantage of much of Europe and Japan likely continued for about a decade after the war because of the widespread devastation. But he also points to several other factors that probably helped Americans live longer up into the 1950s, such as the relative strength of organized labor and consequent rising wages, plus the large public investments that helped boost the middle class, like the GI bill and the promotion of high home ownership (with the caveat that these advantages were primarily available to White Americans).

Bor observes that the later period of American mortality advantage was likely bolstered by President Johnsons War on Poverty and the marked expansion of the safety net by Medicare and Medicaid, as well as the racial integration of hospitals in 1963 and environmental regulation which made water and air healthier. All of these programs and policies took some of the gains that occurred in the 1950s and expanded them so that it wasnt just people with middle-class incomes and White people who had access to the determinants of a healthy, long life, he explains.

Yet even during the period of relative mortality advantages, Americas inequality and structural racism likely held back the countrys longevity record from being as good as it could have been. Older populations in the U.S. have tended to have better mortality outcomes relative to peer countries than younger groups. Bor cites the fact that Americans have to reach the age of 65 before benefits like universal health care kick in as negatively impacting younger peoples life expectancy. This age-related trend shifted somewhat from 1980 to 2000, but the researchers found that in the 2000s, the age-related mortality picture is clear: the story of the U.S. disadvantage is primarily about people under 65 dying at higher rates than in peer countries.

The year when Americas overall mortality numbers diverged from other wealthy nations is 1980, according to the researchers findings. If the name Ronald Reagan comes to mind, youre not alone: Bor notes that a Twitter discussion of the teams work has homed in on this association. However, he emphasizes that the story is more complicated than one mans presidency and its attendant policy changes, citing multiple factors such as the rise in opioid-related deaths in the 2000s, as well as increasing deaths due to obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Gun violence has also increased Americas relative death toll.

In considering the widening gap between the US and peer countries in the 2000s, Bor points to the work of Princeton economists Anne Case and Angus Deaton on deaths of despair  the term for lives lost to preventable causes like suicide, drug overdose, and alcoholism. Researchers like sociologist Shannon Monnat, who has studied the opioid crisis, have built upon this work, trying to understand why these deaths occur so frequently in the US.

Bor mentions the combined stressors of economic dislocation due to globalization and the loss of jobs and economic opportunity in some parts of the country, especially among those lacking college degrees, and the social implications of these trends, such as increasing numbers of men without jobs who are no longer considered husband material and thus lose the social support that comes with marriage. Compounding the problem, in Bors view, is the failure of our politics to address it, or to even see it coming  and this was happening under both George W. Bush and Obama.

As Bor and his researchers note, inequality is surely a big part of the picture. In 2017, economist Peter Temin described how America began to diverge into what are essentially two separate nations in the 1970s. One nation  around 20% of the total population  boasts college educations, good jobs, and access to quality healthcare. The other nation, where the 80% majority resides, is stuck with low wages, insecure jobs, fewer education opportunities, and unaffordable and inadequate healthcare. These are the people getting sicker and dying younger than they used to. Temin observes that the US economic structure now looks a lot more like that of a developing nation than a wealthy superpower, which may help explain why the countrys mortality rates as a whole cant compete with peer countries where such bifurcation is less pronounced. Thomas Ferguson, Director of Research at the Institute for New Economic Thinking (INET), has studied Americas increasing turn to money-driven politics, which has resulted in public-minded policies giving way to free market-driven policies that do not consider the needs of the majority.

These two worlds, the high-income and low-wage sectors, interact less and less, which might explain why many affluent Americans, including the doctors who attend them, are unaware of how dire the countrys overall health record has become or how many are dying young compared to peer nations.

But the low-wage world knows something about it first-hand. The Covid crisis has illustrated how many Americans are not simply ignored, but placed directly in harms way  expected to sacrifice their very lives for the benefit of the affluent. This attitude was succinctly expressed by Dan Patrick, lieutenant governor of Texas, as the pandemic raged: There are more important things than living, he stated. Like an economy that mostly benefits the few?

Bor acknowledges the need to discuss policies that would help the U.S. turn around its dismal mortality record, but he believes that the first step is to make the public aware of the urgency of the situation. Even he, an epidemiologist, has been taken aback by what he and his colleagues found. What surprised me in this research is how huge the number of missing Americans is, and how little a part of our public conversation I am sure if you did a survey, people would have no idea of the scale of excess mortality in the U.S. Were just way behind.

A Turn for the Worse?

Unfortunately, if America was a patient, the doctor would likely be predicting a turn for the worse.

For starters, the nations pandemic response has been widely criticized, with data showing clearly that the U.S. record in saving people from the ravages of the virus is below average in the world and among the worst among developed and high-income nations. Thats certainly not helping the mortality crisis.

In the broader view, the fracturing of the country into a dual economy is not improving. To add further stress, Peter Temin has illuminated in his most recent book that racial disparities in the U.S. economy appear to be getting worse, not better.

Unbridled capitalism is not good for life expectancy. For example, the increasing move of private equity into healthcare since the 1980s in the US has alarmed many experts, as INET has highlighted in research by Eileen Appelbaum and Rosemary Batt, and also in work by Thomas Ferguson, Paul Jorgensen, and Jie Chen on private equitys political contributions. A series of articles on the pressure put on emergency rooms by private equity to cut costs has further illuminated the danger to American lives from this rapacious part of the financial sector, which squeezes ever-steeper profits from human bodies.

Meanwhile, as the health of Americans is deteriorating, the Supreme Court attacks environmental regulation, gun protections, and delivers a shocking blow to womens health. If U.S. programs and policies of the 1960s expanded upon the gains that occurred in the 1950s, then many of those in the 2020s are doing the opposite  they are intensifying the failures of past decades.

Its one of the tragic ironies of our era, says Bor. Populations that have seen some of the worst trends in health outcomes over the last 40 years are electing leaders who will further exacerbate those trends through policies that are inimical to public health  whether thats a failure to expand Medicaid, failure to regulate guns, or abortion restrictions that will lead to negative short-term and long-term health consequences for women.

All of this points to the uncomfortable reality that US democracy is not functioning as it should. When elected officials do not reflect the will of the people, which surely, at a most basic level, is to live, then something has gone badly wrong. The thing that I find most frustrating is that youd expect in a democracy that the political system would respond when theres a mass health crisis, when peoples material realities have been in decline, says Bor. What you see is exactly the opposite. It seems very bleak but then you think, gosh, there has to be an opportunity for a new politics here.
We could end up in jail if we disclose details of the former governments contract with Pfizer, says the countrys Health Minister.

The recently elected President of Costa Rica Rodrigo Chaves last week announced the end of compulsory vaccination against COVID-19. Speaking alongside his health minister, Joselyn Chacon, Chaves said that not only are the vaccines no longer mandatory; any action taken against anyone who does not want to get vaccinated will be in violation of the law. Chaves also called for unvaccinated workers who had lost their jobs to be reinstated and announced the launch of an investigation into the vaccine contracts the previous government signed with Pfizer-BioNTech.

Costa Rica: A Pioneer of COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates

Costa Rica was the first country in Central America to implement a COVID-19 vaccine mandate. That was in September 2021, when Chaves predecessor, Carlos Alvarado Quesada, was holding the reins. In November 2021, Costa Rica became the first country in the world to mandate Covid-19 vaccines for minors, with all children 5 and older obligated by law to get vaccinated, barring medical exemptions. It was a hugely controversial decision that, as in the US and other countries, represented a line in the sand for many parents.

The mandate meant that a child could get vaccinated even if their parents did not consent, said Roman Macaya Hayes, then-director of Costa Ricas Social Security Institute. Macaya Hayes is now under investigation by the Deputy Prosecutors Office of the 1st Judicial Circuit of San Jose for alleged prevarication. So too is Daniel Salas, the former Minister of Health who now works in the US with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), as well as six members of the National Vaccination and Epidemiology Commission (CNVE), two of whom purportedly participated in decisions regarding COVID-19 immunization even though their appointments to the CNVE had expired.

That alone is enough to invalidate the acts agreed upon by the CNVE, says President Chaves. His government will also investigate the former Alvarado governments massive purchase of COVID-19 vaccines in April 2022, even as the vaccination campaign was losing steam.

We are going to investigate why it is they bought so many vaccines when the data available showed the market was already saturated, Chaves said in his weekly press conference last week. Millions of dollars worth of vaccines were purchased at a time that the vaccination rate was already waning. I have no idea how much money was squandered on vaccines that are not going to be used and are going to expire.

Of course, Chaves, a right-wing populist and former World Bank-economist, could be doing all of this just to score political points against his predecessor. However, given his predecessor, Carlos Alvarado Quesada, was already a political corpse on leaving government with an approval rating of just 18%, while Chaves has an approval rating of 70% following his first two and a half months in office, it is unlikely.

Costa Ricas health minister, Joselyn Chacon, said she could not divulge any of the details of the Pfizer contract due to secrecy clauses embedded deep within the contract. She also alleged that Beatriz Solis Worsfold, the daughter of former President of Costa Rica Luis Guillermo Solis (2014-18) and a corporate lawyer with Pfizer since 2018, was instrumental in drawing up the contract: If we release details of the contract we could end up in jail because we would be violating a contract drawn up by the daughter of former president Luis Guillermo Solis.

Pfizer has denied the allegations. In remarks to Costa Rican fact-checking website Doble Check, the company said that Solis Worsfolds responsibilities do not include participation in the negotiation processes with the government of Costa Rica or with any other government for the purchase of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against COVID-19. Pfizer added that the negotiation processes for the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines are conducted by the companys local, regional and global teams, and that these processes are broadly similar throughout the region and at a global level.

Pfizers Sordid Vaccine Sales Practices

Those processes have also been highly controversial wherever they have been deployed. In Latin America the company was accused of holding the governments of even the largest countries to ransom, as I noted in a previous article (Pfizers Sordid Vaccine Sales Practices in Latin America Could Be a Big Boon for China and Russia):

It is a time-honoured custom of business that manufacturers provide certain basic guarantees to prospective buyers about their products quality and safety. But U.S. pharma giant Pfizer wants to turn this on its head as it sells its experimental mRNA vaccine to desperate governments around the world. For Pfizer, its the buyer  not the seller  that should provide all of the guarantees. And that includes countries putting up sovereign assets, such as federal bank reserves, embassy buildings and military bases, as insurance against the cost of any future legal cases involving Pfizer BioNTechs vaccine, reports the Bureau of International Journalism (TBIJ): Officials from Argentina and the other Latin American country, which cannot be named as it has signed a confidentiality agreement with Pfizer, said the companys negotiators demanded additional indemnity against any civil claims citizens might file if they experienced adverse effects after being inoculated. In Argentina and Brazil, Pfizer asked for sovereign assets to be put up as collateral for any future legal costs. One official who was present in the unnamed countrys negotiations described Pfizers demands as high-level bullying and said the government felt like it was being held to ransom in order to access life-saving vaccines. Campaigners are already warning of a vaccine apartheid in which rich Western countries may be inoculated years before poorer regions. Now, legal experts have raised concerns that Pfizers demands amount to an abuse of power.

According to Professor Lawrence Gostin, director of the World Health Organizations Collaborating Center on National and Global Health Law, what Pfizer appears to want is total immunity from all forms of liability:

[T]he company would not be held liable for rare adverse effects or for its own acts of negligence, fraud or malice. This includes those linked to company practices  say, if Pfizer sent the wrong vaccine or made errors during manufacturing. Some liability protection is warranted, but certainly not for fraud, gross negligence, mismanagement, failure to follow good manufacturing practices. Companies have no right to ask for indemnity for these things.

At the time of that articles publication (March 2021), governments of countries both large and small were desperate to get their hands on enough vaccines for their population, and as such were willing to kowtow to almost every demand from Pfizer to get their hands on what was then being marketed as the most effective vaccine against COVID. Now, many of those same governments have vast stockpiles of unused Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines in their possession, and those vaccines have proven to be not nearly as effective or as safe as initially claimed.

In the interim, more information has seeped out about Pfizers vaccine contracts, allowing journalists and researchers to piece together a more (but far from) complete picture of the companys sordid negotiating practices. In October 2021, Public Citizen released a report revealing that Pfizer:

Reserves the Right to Silence Governments. Brazils contract with Pfizer included an additional term that Public Citizen had not seen in other Latin American agreements. The Brazilian government is essentially prohibited from making any public announcement concerning the existence, subject matter or terms of [the] Agreement or discussing its relationship with Pfizer without the prior written consent of the company. Just like that, Pfizer was able to silence the government of Latin Americas biggest country. In most other contracts the non-disclosure agreement applies to both parties. Controls donations. The Brazilian government is also prohibited from accepting donations of Pfizer vaccines from other countries without Pfizers prior authorization. It is also barred from donating, distributing, exporting, or otherwise transporting the vaccine outside Brazil  again, without Pfizers permission. Contravention of this clause would be considered an uncurable material breach of Brazils agreement with Pfizer, allowing the US pharmaceutical to immediately terminate the agreement. Upon termination, Brazil would be required to pay the full price for any remaining contracted doses. Secures IP Waivers for Itself. Despite Pfizers strident defence of intellectual property  at least when said property is its own  the vaccine contracts its has signed with governments shift responsibility for any intellectual property infringement that Pfizer might commit to the government purchasers. As such, the contracts affect allow Pfizer to use anyones intellectual property it pleases  largely without consequence. Can take any and all disputes to arbitration. No great surprise here. Public Citizen cites the UK as an example. In the event of a contractual dispute between Downing Street and Pfizer, a secret panel  not a national court  is empowered to make the final decision. The arbitration is conducted under the Rules of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC). Both parties are required to keep everything secret. The Albania draft contract and Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic and Peru agreements require the governments to go even further, with contractual disputes subject to ICC arbitration applying New York law. Can seize state assets. In the case of Brazil, Chile and Colombia, the government expressly and irrevocably waives any right of immunity which either it or its assets may have or acquire in the future to enforce any arbitration award (emphasis added). For Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic, this includes immunity against precautionary seizure of any of its assets. Calls the shots on key decisions. Colombias contract with Pfizer includes a gem of a clause stipulating that the Colombian government must demonstrate, in a manner satisfactory to Suppliers, that Suppliers and their affiliates will have adequate protection, as determined in Suppliers sole discretion (emphasis added by Public Citizen) from liability claims. In other words, if suppliers fail to supply the goods requested by the time agreed in the contract, Colombias government has agreed that it will have no means of recourse.

Given the contractual conditions outlined above, it is hard to imagine any country in Latin America  let alone one as tiny and as dependent on the US as Costa Rica  managing to overturn or override any of the clauses in their contract with Pfizer. As Public Citizen notes at the end of its report, Pfizers ability to control key decisions reflects the power imbalance in vaccine negotiations. Under the vast majority of contracts, Pfizers interests come first.

Indeed, just a month ago a judge in Uruguay presiding over a case brought by parents opposing the vaccination of children over the age of five demanded that the Government present to him all documentation on the terms and conditions of its contract for Pfizer BioNTechs COVID-19 vaccines as well as the full biochemical composition of the vaccine. When the government refused to comply, the judge suspended the vaccination of all children under 13. The government quickly appealed and within a couple of weeks Uruguays court of appeal overturned the judges decision.

Back in Costa Rica, the Chaves governments rescission of the vaccine mandates faces a wall of resistance from Costa Ricas public health authorities. According to the Costa Rican daily La Nacion, the countrys Social Security Fund (CRSS) insists that the vaccine mandates remain in force, arguing that the Chaves governments decree overturning the previous governments mandates was merely a petition, a request or a plea, that does not imply an obligation or imperative to act accordingly on the part of the body that holds said competence.

The CRSS has also provided jurisprudence from the Constitutional Court supporting the mandatory nature of the vaccine as a public health measure. As such, at least for the moment, public sector employees fired for refusing the vaccine will not be reinstated in their positions.
(Natural News) President Joe Biden and his administrations failure to properly tackle the monkeypox outbreak in the United States is barely making any headlines on mainstream media outlets. Guy Benson noted during an episode of the Guy Benson Show on Fox News that it would be a different story if a Republican administration were tackling this issue.

If this were a Republican administration screwing up this badly, over and over again, on a public health issue, it would be a much bigger story than it is, especially given the fact that it is overwhelmingly targeting gay and bisexual people, said Benson, who is himself a gay man.

You can almost imagine what the outcry would sound like and look like, he added. Youd have activists, youd have the media, youd have Democrats [saying] This administration doesnt care about gay people, they dont care about our lives, they dont prioritize us, this is callous disregard, this is dereliction, this is bigotry, this is what modern bigotry looks like.' (Related: New media rule: Dont say gay.)

Benson noted that one of the ways Biden could have prevented this catastrophe from growing any further is by communicating clearly and accurately about how monkeypox spreads without worrying about political considerations or political correctness, especially in terms of potentially offending the LGBT community.

Im a member of that community, so I think I can talk about this a little bit, said Benson. I understand that anyone can get it if you come in contact with a lesion, skin-to-skin contact.

Not discriminatory to tell the truth about who are mostly affected by monkeypox

In an opinion piece written for Townhall, Benson reiterated his point that it is not at all discriminatory or stigmatizing to point out that the vast majority of people in the United States who have contracted monkeypox are men who are gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men.

Its absolutely correct that monkeypox is not a gay disease, in that anyone who comes in contact with monkeypox lesions can contract it, he said. It is also absolutely correct that the vast, vast majority of Americans  and others abroad  suffering from monkeypox at the moment represent a very small subset of the overall population, within which its being overwhelmingly transmitted through sexual contact.

Benson noted that public health officials within the Biden administration should just focus on doing their jobs, which is to convey accurate medical information as clearly as possible to the American public. It shouldnt attempt to cater to political correctness or attempt to chase public approval.

Its not stigmatizing or scapegoating to disseminate correct information, then craft public policy and set priorities accordingly, he said. Unfortunately, Benson added that in some LGBT circles, good medical advice could be received and treated almost like a hate crime.

Its not pointless sex shaming. Its not homophobic to bluntly recommend that at-risk, sexually-active gay and bisexual men scale back their sexual exploits, or even abstain from them for a period of time, said Benson. Its sound counsel, based on data and science.

Learn more about Bidens recent failures at JoeBiden.news.

Watch this clip from the Guy Benson Show on Fox News as host Guy Benson talks about Bidens failure to deal with monkeypox.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Biden Crime Family to reap massive profits from monkeypox vaccines.

San Francisco proudly announces monkeypox superspreader event: the Up Your Alley festival that encourages filth and multiple partners.

SCHLONG COVID: Global study finds that almost every case of monkeypox occurs among a homosexual or bisexual male.

If monkeypox is an STD that children are contracting, it could expose extent of pedophilia in America.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

Townhall.com
(Natural News) For Bishop Leon Benjamin, prayer is not just a religious thing.

Prayer is a governmental power. Its just as powerful as the legislative branch that we call Congress, he said during the Aug. 1 episode of his program B-Alert News on Brighteon.TV. Its called decreeing a thing or declaring a thing. So our prayer is even more [powerful].

The congressional candidate and senior pastor of New Life Harvest Church in Virginia said people need to understand more than ever that God hears prayers. Elaborating on his earlier point, Benjamin said prayer is a legislative power that Heaven has given to believers. This power, he added, is granted by God and His Kingdom. (Related: B-Alert News: Power of prayer is about power of leadership and influence  Brighteon.TV.)

According to the pastor, Jesus comes from a different type of government. God the Father, the Heavenly King, sent His son Jesus Christ  also a king  to fix a world turned upside down by Satan.

Given this, Benjamin said America is about to experience a collision between the spiritual and natural worlds  thanks to the power of prayer coming from consecrated people.

When people understand the power of a legislative decision granted from Heaven, it brings greater implications, he added. Thus, people need to commit their trust, energy and decision making process and give it over to the Lord to do the right thing.

Benjamin emphasizes the value of fasting

The Brighteon.TV host also emphasized the importance of fasting on his program. When paired with prayer, fasting returns people back to their original state of legislative ability  which is to call, decree and declare the Word and Will of God.

Benjamin cited the book of the Prophet Daniel, where he mourned for three weeks, ate no choice food  and used no lotions until the three weeks were over. At the end of the fasting period, Daniel became purified and saw a vision.

Fasting is refusing to consume food for voluntary or religious reasons, but the pastor said it is not limited to a religious thing. True fasting, just like what the prophet performed, causes a believer to consume every word of God  which is pure and converts a persons soul.

The pastor said that when people pray and fast, they are acknowledging what God is able to do. Once He receives the prayer and returns His word, the believer must now do what God says. In essence, someone who is fasting and praying on his knees will be moved to stand up and act.

Lastly, Benjamin said that fasting results in people being set apart for God  much like the Prophet Daniel. He optimistically remarked that God is about to set America apart again, and individuals in the nation will be set apart for a work that He has called them to do.

Awakening.news has more stories like this.

Watch the Aug. 1 episode of B-Alert News below. Catch B-Alert News with Bishop Leon Benjamin every Monday at 10-11 a.m. and every Sunday at 8-9 p.m. on Brighteon.TV.

More related stories:

Pastor Leon Benjamin and Ohio lawyer Tom Renz talk about fear and faith amid the pandemic  Brighteon.TV.

Powerful discussion: Pastor Leon Benjamin interviewed by Mike Adams on faith, life and the future of humanity.

The Resistance Chicks Leah and Michelle Svensson talk about the power of prayer in changing a nation  Brighteon.TV.

Praying to God could be made a crime, lawmakers threatened with legal action.

BardsFM host Scott Kesterson: We have to win the spiritual fight to win the overall battle  Brighteon.TV.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

BibleGateway.com
(Natural News) Retired fireman Chad Caton blasted Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) for their unconstitutional attempts to violate the Second Amendment.

Nadler is a joke, and now theyre trying to weaponize the ATF, Caton said during the Aug. 4 episode of his Brighteon.TV program Im Fired Up.

Ive never wanted to see any law enforcement ever get thrown into the deal. But when it comes to going against the Second Amendment and the ATF going against its sworn oath, it means they have a boss.

According to Caton, the New York congressman is pushing for legislation to prevent so-called gun violence under HR 1808  the Assault Weapons Ban of 2021. A statement from Nadlers office explained that the measure restores and updates the prior assault weapons ban, which kept weapons of war out of communities for a decade before Republicans opposed its renewal. (Related: Senate Dems propose blatantly unconstitutional bill that would shatter the Second Amendment.)

Nadler remarked: Will our Republican colleagues choose to defend the weapons of choice for mass murderers and those who seek to target law enforcement? Or will they choose to defend Americans who simply want to go to school, to go shopping, to march in a parade, or go to a movie theater, without the fear of having a target on their back?

Caton cited how the ATF has been sending agents to knock on peoples doors to ask about their gun purchases and even touch their weapons  all without any warrant. In particular, he cited a viral video making rounds on social media featuring local police arresting an ATF agent. The said agent showed up in front of a citizens house asking to see a firearm the person allegedly procured via straw purchase  which prompted the homeowner to call law enforcement.

If thats not infringing on your Second Amendment, I dont know what more there is, he said.

Caton: ATF agents arrogance caused his downfall

The Im Fired Up host put in his two cents on the matter.

This [agent] went there and said Im at the ATF. You purchased a weapon and I want to see it. I want to touch it. [But] there was no warrant, [so the citizen] said Hang on a second, Ill be right back and he called the cops, narrated Caton.

Law enforcement who arrived initially asked the ATF agent for identification and ordered him to drop to the ground. However, the uniformed man refused to comply and insisted that he was a federal agent and he wants someone.

The agents tune eventually changed as the police went closer. He then claimed that the cops were making a big mistake, that he has a medical condition and that his wife was pregnant. While many said it was police brutality, Caton argued otherwise.

The retired fireman said both the police officers and the ATF agent underwent the same training. However, Caton pointed out that the agents arrogance pulled him in.

He was trying anything and everything only to realize that his arrogance got him into the situation. He was lost, he didnt know what to do, and so he reverted to his ideology that Youre not supposed to be doing this. He was begging [and] twisting his hand so as to not be handcuffed, Caton said.

The officers did the right thing. They said, We need to secure the scene and you to make sure we can find out who you are. [The cops] wanted to make sure that  this man was, in fact, a federal agent.

Caton ultimately remarked: This is the very reason that we maintain guns to protect ourselves.

Visit SecondAmendment.news for more stories about the right to keep and bear arms.

Watch the full Aug. 4 episode of Im Fired Up with Chad Caton below. Catch new episodes of the program every Thursday at 10-11 a.m. on Brighteon.TV.

More related stories:

Supreme Court strengthens Second Amendment by striking down restrictive NY concealed carry law.

Second Amendment at work: Armed citizen Elisjsha Dicken STOPS Indiana mass shooter.

Unconstitutional: Government pushing for gun laws that brazenly contradict Second Amendment rights.

GOP lawmaker lashes out at Democrats who chastise him for handling his own guns during Zoom session.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com 1

Nadler.House.gov

Brighteon.com 2
(Natural News) One miscalculated visit from U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi could cost the country a lot in terms of diplomatic relations. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) announced on Friday, August 5, that it would cancel or suspend dialogue on several issues with the United States, ranging from military communications to climate change initiatives.

The CCPs foreign ministry also said that the regime would cancel all direct communications with American military theater leaders, working meetings between defense departments and maritime security dialogues with the United States.

Further, the Chinese will also suspend all cooperation with the U.S. regarding illegal immigrant repatriation, criminal justice assistance, climate talks, transnational crime and anti-drug programs.

This announcement came as part of a suite of retaliatory measures by China against the United States and its partners following Pelosis visit to Taiwan earlier in the week.

This canceling of communications between military commanders in the Indo-Pacific is likely to be seen as a major escalation by the international community, as such contact is usually important in helping militaries avoid miscommunication or harmful accidents and could signal a lasting, more aggressive approach toward its rival and the self-ruled island.

This statement from the CCP is the latest in a barrage of explosive rhetoric and hostile actions from Beijing, not only against the U.S. but Taiwan as well. (Related: China surges forces toward Taiwan, conducts live-fire drills as Speaker Nancy Pelosi visits.)

The CCP launched 11 ballistic missiles into the waters around Taiwan last week, some of which passed over the island and into the exclusive economic zone of Japan.

The regime was also suspected of launching a series of cyberattacks on Taiwanese infrastructure and has implemented import bans on over 2,000 items from Taiwan.

Moreover, the Chinese militarys encirclement of Taiwan also formed a kind of blockade that forced international air and sea traffic to back up.

International forums and organizations such as the G7 and the ASEAN have called on the CCP to end its provocations and pursue a peaceful solution to the tensions, but it seems that China is not ready for such actions.

The White House, however, is not willing to give in to Chinas erratic and dangerous behavior. Instead, the administration summoned the Chinese ambassador for a reprimand over the unprecedented escalations.

In spite of CCP threats to regional stability, the U.S. is said to pursue de-escalation measures, including postponing one of its missile tests.

White House National Security Council communications coordinator John Kirby said: As China engages in destabilizing military exercises around Taiwan, the United States is demonstrating instead the behavior of a responsible nuclear power by reducing the risks of miscalculation and misperception.

He added that this behavior is how the U.S. will defend its national security interests and values.

CCP maintains One China principle

The CCP still maintains its so-called One China principle, which states that Taiwan is a province that needs to be reunited with the mainland. The Chinese are not ruling out the use of force to achieve their goal.

However, Taiwan has been self-governing since 1949, has never been controlled by the CCP and has maintained a democratic government and thriving market economy.

The U.S. relations with Taiwan and China have been governed by a series of treaties and diplomatic ties stretching back to the 1970s.

The U.S. adheres to the One China policy and provides an acknowledgment of it. Meanwhile, the U.S. policy mandates extensive unofficial ties with Taiwan, with the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 mandating that the U.S. will provide arms in case Taiwan needs them for self-defense. (Related: Trump: China will DEFINITELY attack Taiwan following Russia-Ukraine example.)

Put simply, the heart of the ongoing tensions between the CCP and the U.S. is their long-standing agreement that neither side will attempt to unilaterally change this status quo through force or coercion.

For the CCP, however, Pelosis visit is an attempt to change this status quo. U.S. officials have said the same with regard to Chinas increased military and economic aggression in the region. The White House has also accused the CCP of manufacturing crisis to justify its military expansion around Taiwan.

Beijings provocative actions are a significant escalation in its long-standing attempt to change the status quo. Were not going to accept a new status quo. And its not just the United States, but the world as well.

Pelosi, who is in Japan for the last stop of her Asian tour, said China will not be allowed to succeed in its efforts to isolate Taiwan. They may try to keep Taiwan from visiting or participating in other places, but they will not isolate Taiwan by preventing us to travel there, she said.

Visit WWIII.news for more updates about China cutting military communication ties with the United States.

Watch the video below for more information about how Pelosis visit to Taiwan affected U.S.-China relations.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Taiwan is the real China. The peoples Republic of China is an illegitimate dictatorship.

Criticizing communist China even outside of China is now a punishable offense.

US created the conditions for Russia-Ukraine war, says China.

China flies fighter jets into Taiwanese airspace, escalating tension following Pelosi visit.

Pentagon-funded think tank simulates war with China over Taiwan.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

USNews.com

NBCNews.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Members of the United States Coast Guard (USCG) put forward a class action lawsuit about the unlawfully denied religious exemptions they filed for the Biden administrations Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine mandate.

According to Dale Saran, one of the attorneys representing the USCG members, the number of plaintiffs exceeds 130 and will possibly surpass 200. The complainants are either active-duty or reserve members of the Coast Guard, and all have sincerely held religious beliefs that prohibit them from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

The lawsuit filed on July 25 in the Southern District of Texas District Court-Galveston Division named four defendants: Alejandro Mayorkas, secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); Linda L. Fagan, commandant of the Coast Guard; Lloyd Austin, secretary of the Department of Defense (DOD) and Dr. Janet Woodcock, acting commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The suit included that under the August 24, 2021 DOD vaccine mandate, the military theoretically offers medical, administrative, and religious accommodation requests (RARs) to the mandate. Two days later, the Coast Guard issued its own that incorporates the provisions of the DOD mandate.

The claim further stated that only service members with medical or administrative reasons for an exemption were accommodated, and even those sparingly, while RARs are universally denied unless the requester is eligible for administrative separation.

This conclusively demonstrates that the Armed Services have systematically and willfully violated service members free exercise rights under RFRA [Religious Freedom Restoration Act] and the First Amendment, the suit stated.

It further pointed out that because of their vaccination status, the plaintiffs have been harassed, treated differently than their peers, singled out publicly by their leaders, had their normal leave and liberty restricted, been removed from senior/leadership positions, been denied promotion, received official discipline, been barred from training, travel, new assignments and permanent change of station orders and are now facing involuntary separation.

Moreover, no one from the original 122 plaintiffs who filed RARs received their response within the required 30-day deadline. According to their lawyer, 1,308 RARs were filed, 578 were denied and none were approved. Out of 1,150 appeals, 119 were denied with no approvals.

These folks represent some of the most dedicated, selfless defenders of American lives here at home. They deserve better, they deserve advocates for their rights and that is why we are filing on their behalf, Saran said. (Related: Donald Trump plotting return to White House in 2024, makes major pledge to military members discharged for refusing COVID vax.)

DOD and Coast Guard vaccine mandates violated several laws

The attorney further said that rights to due process under the Fifth Amendment pertaining to bodily integrity also were violated because the mRNA shots being forced on servicemen and women are not vaccines, but instead are treatments that meet none of the statutory and historical definitions to be considered vaccines.

Plaintiffs object to taking the gene therapies because all of the existing vaccines used aborted fetal cell lines either in their manufacturing or development and the COVID-19 vaccines are critically dependent on, and could not exist but for, the use of aborted fetal cell tissue, the complaint included.

In summary, below are the laws violated by the DOD and Coast Guard vaccine mandate:

Religious Freedom Restoration Act

Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment

Fifth Amendments due process clauses (pertaining to substantive and procedural due process)

Informed consent laws and the Public Health Service Act

Administrative Procedure Act

Furthermore, it also questions the DODs claim that the Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine, issued under an emergency use authorization, is interchangeable with the FDA-licensed Pfizer comirnaty vaccine.

The suit argued that the FDA has never asserted that the EUA and licensed versions are legally interchangeable as the agency consistently acknowledged that the two vaccines are legally distinct.

A testimony was incorporated in the lawsuit and engaged the expertise of immunologist Dr. Peter McCullough.

The Pfizer, Moderna, and JNJ [Johnson & Johnson] vaccines are considered genetic vaccines, or vaccines produced from gene therapy molecular platforms, which, according to U.S. FDA regulatory guidance, are classified as gene delivery therapies and should be under a 15-year regulatory cycle with annual visits for safety evaluation by the research sponsors, McCullough said.

The expert added that vaccination is not the best way to minimize the risk posed by COVID-19 to military readiness as these vaccines have led to record fatal and nonfatal organ injury syndromes based on over 1,000 publications in the preprint and PubMed citation systems.

Visit BigGovernment.news for more news about government public health mandates that violate peoples health freedom.

Watch the video below where Dr. Jane Ruby slams DOD and Pfizer for sending fake comirnaty vials to the coast guard.

This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

House Republicans introduce bill to reinstate military service members discharged for not complying with COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

House Republicans calling for ban on using taxpayer funds for implementing military vaccine mandate.

Dr. Jane Ruby: COVID shots are a direct attack on the military  Brighteon.TV.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

ChildrensHealthDefense.org 1

Media.Defense.gov

USCG.mil

ChildrensHealthDefense.org 2

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Brillouin Energy Corp. announced performance breakthroughs for its first transportable HYDROGEN HOT TUBE (HHT) Test System

(Article by David Firshein republished from EinPresswire.com)

Company proves net-positive power from its HHT boiler at ICCF24 Solid-State Energy Summit.

Brillouin Energy Corp. announced performance breakthroughs  net-positive power out-of-the-wall, steady-state operation and heating water  for its first transportable HYDROGEN HOT TUBE (HHT) Test System demonstrated at the ICCF24 Solid-State Energy Summit.

The companys first transportable HHT test system demonstrated production of over 250 Watts of heat in water at a 1.25X excess heat ratio from power out-of-the-wall, steady-state, while running a small Stirling Engine. The implicit excess heat ratio was over 3X at the internal catalyst rod level. A short video of the demonstration can be seen here: Brillouins ICCF24 demonstration.

These significant performance achievements represent a major step forward on the pathway to commercializing our innovative LENR technologies for hot water boiler and hydronic heating manufacturers,  David Firshein

These significant performance achievements represent a major step forward on the pathway to commercializing our innovative LENR technologies for hot water boiler and hydronic heating manufacturers, said David Firshein, Chief Financial Officer, Brillouin Energy Corp. Results for the transportable HHT test system are comparable to the performance levels of the other five HHT test systems operating in our companys Berkeley Lab on an extended basis.

With nearly $5 billion invested in hot fusion over the last twelve months, enthusiasm for solid-state fusion energy technologies is gaining traction. A new generation of scientists, engineers, investors and corporate executives are investigating, developing and investing in new solid-state fusion energy devices. Brillouin Energy is a frontrunner in the field, with its proven HHT systems.

In July, the HHT test systems consistently demonstrated the Key Performance Trifecta of net-positive power out-of-the-wall, steady-state operation, as measured by heating water. This combination serves as commercial proof of concept. The companys water flow calorimetry achievement is the simplest, yet most definitive test measure of proving the LENR excess heat reaction in operation. The HHTs performance will continue to improve with further investment in its engineering and manufacturing processes.

Brillouin Energys HHT is optimally designed for successful commercialization. The companys patented Q-Pulse technology is used to control the HHT thermal output, which is important for scaling multiple commercial product applications. As such, the company intends to join the US Department of Energys ARPA-E Teaming Partner List for LENR.

We are partnering and working with reputable experts at prestigious US academic institutions, laboratories, and corporations to further prove the generation of ultra-cold, ultra-slow neutrons, which are completely non-hazardous. Partnering will help us further accelerate our commercialization timeline. Solid-state fusion energy is abundant, low-cost, clean, safe, and flexible in scale to meet demand, said Robert Godes, Brillouin Energys Founder and Chief Technology Officer.

Read more at: EinPresswire.com
(Natural News) A Texas man played Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner for the fool that he is by bringing a cache of homemade, 3D-printed firearms to a recent gun buyback event.

Turners goal is to remove as many guns from Houston as possible, though no stipulation was made as to the types of guns people could bring in for compensation. Consequently, Turners goons were forced to pay out $3,100 to the man for his 62 ghost guns.

Since the homemade firearms only cost $3 each to make, the man, who chose to remain anonymous, netted $47 in profit per weapon. And he would have continued on with his infinite money glitch at future events had Turner not changed the rules.

Youll always have people who will try and [sic] take advantage of the programs, Turner whined following the incident. I was there when that person brought in those guns. The reason we went ahead and did that was we had not said we werent going to.

The money did not come from Turners own pocket, of course. It came from a $1 million pool of taxpayer dollars that Turner decided would be best spent trying to fight against the Second Amendment. (Related: Remember when Robert Scott Bell announced a vaccine buyback program on his radio show?)

The goal was not personal profit, but to send [Houston leaders] a message about spending $1 million tax dollars on something that has no evidence of any effect on crime, the anonymous man stated.

He added that he also wants city officials who wish to do this kind of thing to at least pay a fair amount for peoples guns, use private donations rather than tax dollars, and dont destroy historic guns.

If anyone can 3D-print his own firearms, then what are gun buyback programs even accomplishing?

Future firearms buyback events, Turner said, will exclude 3D-printed guns, as the program is designed for people who want to voluntarily relinquish their guns.

That is exactly what the anonymous man did, though: he voluntarily relinquished dozens of guns he personally made in exchange for a relatively small profit.

The move certainly sent a message to Turner and his goons about the stupidity of the gun buyback program in the first place. If any old Joe can home-make his own firearms for a few bucks, then no amount of government buying will make them go away any time soon.

3D printers just exposed the absurdity of gun buy backs, tweeted someone in response to the news.

When theres a gun buy-back nearby, your 3D printer become [sic] a money printer. Or no, just keep your guns.

The Firearms Policy Coalition just laughed at the incident, which clearly shows the stupidity of anti-Second Amendment politicians like Turner who are wasting precious taxpayer dollars on foolishness that accomplishes absolutely nothing.

Apparently something similar happened to the British in India when the United Kingdom offered a bounty for each dead cobra a person brought in for destruction.

Very soon people were breeding cobras to kill them and collect the bounty, wrote a commenter at Zero Hedge about that lesson in history.

That man destroyed the ghost gun narrative in one sitting, wrote another. And the genius even got compensated for it.

Politicians are evil, but they are also stupid and incompetent, added someone else about Turner and others like him.

Fake money buying plastic guns: thats where were at, chimed in another.

This once again shows that pretty much any private citizen can outsmart a stupid politician, said someone else, echoing the sentiment of the others.

More Second Amendment-related news can be found at Guns.news.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Alan MacLeod has a new article out with Mintpress News showing how most of the supposedly independent fact-checking organizations which Facebook has partnered with to police the information people are allowed to see on the platform about the war in Ukraine are, in fact, funded by the United States government.

(Article by Caitlin Johnstone republished from CaityJohnstone.Medium.com)

Most of the fact-checking organizations Facebook has partnered with to monitor and regulate information about Ukraine are directly funded by the U.S. government, either through the U.S. Embassy or via the notorious National Endowment for Democracy (NED), MacLeod writes.

NED is indeed notorious because, as MacLeod explains, it was set up to do overtly many of the operations which the CIA used to perform covertly, like circulating propaganda in empire-targeted nations, funding foreign uprisings, and facilitating the 2014 coup in Ukraine which set in motion the events that would eventually lead to Russias invasion of the nation this past February.

Macleod shows how US government money is funneled into Facebooks fact-checking organizations through NED and other channels, the result being a US government-funded narrative management operation in a social media platform which has almost three billion active users.

[Thread] Most of fact-checking organisations Facebook uses to police content on Ukraine are directly funded by the US government either by the US embassy or through notorious CIA front group, the NED. My new investigation exclusively at @MintPressNews:https://t.co/FH4R0HKs1s  Alan MacLeod (@AlanRMacLeod) August 3, 2022

This article is just the latest installment in a series of pieces MacLeod has been putting out with Mintpress over the past few months documenting the many strings you can see between major Silicon Valley platforms and the US-centralized empire, which are becoming clearer and more numerous by the year.

Last month MacLeod released a report on the many veterans of the CIA and other branches of the US intelligence cartel who are being hired to high-level positions within Facebooks parent company Meta which help determine what kinds of information get visibility on the companys social media platforms. Metas senior product policy manager for misinformation was hired straight out of the Central Intelligence Agency in 2019 and now helps Facebook, Instagram and Whatsapp sort out information from misinformation.

Last month MacLeod also put out an article on the many CIA veterans who have been hired to help Google decide what information gets seen in its searches and on Google-owned platforms like YouTube. Google is easily the single most influential corporation on earth when it comes to public access to information.

In June MacLeod penned an article titled The Federal Bureau of Tweets: Twitter is Hiring an Alarming Number of FBI Agents, reporting that the social media giant has, in recent years, recruited dozens of individuals from the national security state to work in the fields of security, trust, safety and content.

Even TikTok, MacLeod documents, has begun hiring a bizarre number of former NATO employees to police its content at the same time it has begun aligning with other Silicon Valley platforms in its censorious policies toward content from Russia.

Thread ? National Security Search Engine: Why has Google hired so many ex-CIA agents to run its most important internal and external operations. My new investigation for @MintPressNews: https://t.co/Bayhjqc1R0  Alan MacLeod (@AlanRMacLeod) July 26, 2022

MacLeods important work adds to that of other reporters like Yasha Levine, whose book Surveillance Valley: The Secret Military History of the Internet describes the way humanitys unprecedented access to information has been intertwined with US imperial power from its very inception.

Silicon Valley is at least as fundamental a component of US imperial narrative control as the legacy media and Hollywood, and is becoming even more so. Together they comprise the empires narrative control apparatus, which is just as essential to the functioning of the empire as its military or economic might.

The expansion of human consciousness on issues of political and social justice has brought with it a growing public intolerance for tyranny and oppression, which has made it necessary for the worlds current empire to rule over us by providing us with the illusion of freedom. We are told that we live in a democracy where the people control their own fate, but in reality we are inundated with propaganda from the moment we are born that is designed to psychologically manipulate the way we think, act and vote. As Noam Chomsky said, Propaganda is to a democracy what the bludgeon is to a totalitarian state.

Silicon Valley is filled with spooks and liars for the same reason the mainstream news media support every US war and continually normalize the freakish injustices of our society: because whoever controls the narrative controls the world. Perception is reality, and if you can control how people perceive reality then, as far as their behavior is concerned, you control reality itself.

We will remain trapped with the abuses of the status quo oppression machine until we awaken to this fact.

Read more at: CaityJohnstone.Medium.com
(Natural News) This fall, the White House is planning to hold a conference about nutrition, health, food security and agriculture. And one of Joe Bidens picks to lead it is Ertharin Cousin, a Chinese Communist Party (CCP) propagandist who says the Chinese model for managing each of these things is praiseworthy and should be replicated around the world.

Cousin has appeared in many documentaries produced by CCP-run media outlets, including one that lauded the communist regimes agriculture and food policies as needing to be learned by the whole world.

Cousins quotes of worship towards the regime are constantly played on CCP-controlled television as an example for the Chinese people to mimic. She is also a former executive director of the United Nations World Food Program, which featured a segment on the China Global Television Network (CGTN) show The Hunger Paradox.

Cousin is the sole interviewee in the 20-minute program aired by CGTN, which is entirely owned and operated by the Chinese Communist Party, writes Natalie Winters for The National Pulse.

It has been described by the Freedom House think tank as a long-standing weapon in Beijings arsenal of repression whose mission is to attack designated enemies of the Communist Party. (Related: Bidens cabinet is also loaded with trans activists and other LGBT deviants.)

The same episode features various CCP talking points about communist agriculture and how it was supposedly used for food rationing during the Cultural Revolution.

In China, agricultural reforms ensured most rural farmers had land to grow on, allowing them to be food self-sufficient, the host of the episode states, making no mention about Chinas extensive history of famine.

Chinas poverty reduction efforts have contributed to 70 percent of the world-wide poverty reduction since the 1980s.

Biden wants the United States to model its food and agriculture system after communist China

In essence, Cousin has repeatedly sold her face and words to propaganda messaging that claims China is a model for the rest of the world to follow when it comes to ensuring food security.

Nobody would go hungry, we were told, if the entire world was modeled after communist China. This is who Biden has invited to lead a panel on the future of American agriculture and food security.

One of the things Ive heard you say, which I think is fascinating and true, is that policies do make a difference and you point to China, the host of the segment continues while speaking to Cousin. So many people lifted out of poverty, so many people hungry that now have meals, so policies do make a difference, dont they?

Yes, they do, Cousin responds.

You would often hear me use China as an example of a country that the world said would never feed itself. That it would always depend upon assistance from the global community because 50 years ago, China was WFPs largest recipient, and that all evolved to the point where President Xi now says that he will eradicate poverty by the end of 2020.

In other words, all praise be to Xi Jinping, the current leader of communist China. These are the words of Cousin, anyway, who is planning to dispense similar propaganda at the White House this fall.

Cousin also served under Barack Hussein Obama during his first two terms as Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture, making similar statements. Since the Biden regime is just Obamas third term, it is no surprise that Cousin is once again being paraded around in promotion of communism.

The latest news about the Biden regime can be found at Treason.news.

Sources for this article include:

TheNationalPulse.com

NaturalNews.com

CNSnews.com
(Natural News) The president of the Central American nation of Costa Rica scrapped the countrys Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine mandate, noting that forcing the shot on Costa Ricans was against the law.

As of today, the vaccines are not mandatory  and therefore, any action taken against anyone who does not want to be vaccinated is an action that is against the law, said newly elected Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles during an Aug. 3 press conference.

Chaves is vaccinated against COVID-19, but has maintained his position that people have freedom of choice.

As I said during my campaign: Costa Ricas people are not cattle that you beat with a piece of wood and force to get vaccinated, said the president, who was elected in April. (Related: Vaccine mandate in Ecuador province defeated by health freedom organization.)

According to the newly elected leader, the countrys vaccine mandate put in place before he assumed power was contrary to international standards. To back up his claim, he cited an April 2021 statement from the World Health Organization (WHO) that denounced vaccine mandates.

The April 13 WHO statement said compulsory vaccination policies interfere with freedom and individual autonomy and called for policymakers to balance the well-being of the community with individual liberties.

Mandatory vaccination policies limit individual choice in non-trivial ways by making vaccination a condition of, for example, attending school or working in particular industries or settings like health care.

Former Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado Quesada announced nationwide vaccine mandates back in 2021, first with public-sector employees having an Oct. 15 deadline to get vaccinated. The mandate was subsequently expanded, with proof of vaccination becoming mandatory to join certain activities and enter many establishments in the country beginning Dec. 1.

We have to give time for the people who remain to get their two vaccines, he said. As of Dec. 1, there will be no excuse.

Alvarado later touted this achievement during his final speech in May 2022. He claimed that Costa Rica was among a select group of countries in the world that has more than 85 percent of its population vaccinated with at least one dose.

Chaves: Vaccine mandates in Costa Rica invalid as policymakers terms already expired

Chaves further slammed his predecessors COVID-19 vaccines as violation of Costa Rican law.

He pointed out that the members of the Central American nations National Vaccination and Epidemiology Commission (CNVE) were functioning under expired terms. When Chaves and his new administration took office, they realized that the commissioners terms officially ended in 2020. This, he added, officially rendered all of their actions after their term expired  including mandating the COVID-19 vaccine  invalid.

When told this, [the CNVE members] all got quiet. They said nobody had told them their terms had ended, and nobody questioned this until the minister here investigated, the president continued, pointing to Health Minister Jocelyn Chacon Madrigal.

According to Chaves, he asked Chacon to suspend the vaccine mandates given the illegal actions taken by the CNVE. He clarified, however, that the country kept doses of the COVID-19 vaccine available for those who, in the exercise of their liberty, desire to be vaccinated.

Chacon, who was also present during Chaves Aug. 3 press conference, shot down accusations that the new administration is anti-vaccination. She added that members of new cabinet were up to date with their vaccination.

There are countries which do not mandate, and have higher rates of vaccination. Why? Because people do not want to be ordered. They prefer to have things explained, remarked Chacon.

Watch InfoWars founder Alex Jones explain why U.S. President Joe Bidens COVID-19 vaccine mandate is illegal.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Austrian government drops COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

New Czech PM scraps predecessors planned Covid vaccine mandate.

NYC ends vaccine mandate for retail customers  but not for employees.

Hochul drops covid vaccine mandate for MTA after workers quit in protest.

Out of the blue, Washington, D.C., suddenly drops covid vaccine mandate.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

Apps.WHO.int [PDF]

TicoTimes.net

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Covid-19 vaccination is causing mass depopulation.

(Article republished from Expose-News.com)

This is an extremely bold claim to make.

But unfortunately, this bold claim is backed up by a mountain of evidence contained in the confidential Pfizer documents and official Government data from around the world.

The world is at a crossroads, and the elite has two choices. They sustain millions or even billions of people with financial support and help to ensure they survive and live quality lives. Or, they set about to depopulate the world.

Unfortunately, evidence suggests they chose the depopulation route a while ago, and their plan to do so is already in motion.

Here is that sinister and alarming evidence.

Excess Deaths

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) publishes weekly figures on deaths registered in England and Wales. The most recent data shows deaths up to 22nd July 2022.

The following chart, created by the ONS, shows the number of deaths per week compared to the five-year average 

As you can see from the above, from around May 2021 onwards, England and Wales recorded a huge amount of excess deaths that were not attributed to Covid-19 compared to the five-year average. It then appears that excess deaths dropped at the start of 2022.

But appearances can be deceiving, and the only reason they dropped is that the ONS decided to include the 2021 data in the 5-year-average. This makes it all the more concerning that excess deaths have been recorded every week since the end of April 2022 compared to the five-year average (2016 to 2019 + 2021).

The most recent week shows that there were 10,978 deaths in England and Wales, equating to 1,680 excess deaths against the five-year average. Only 745 of those deaths were attributed to Covid-19.

We also see a similar pattern occurring in Scotland.

The following chart is taken from Public Health Scotlands Covid-19 wider impacts dashboard found here, and it shows the percentage change in deaths compared with the 2015-2019 five-year average for the corresponding time 

Scotland has recorded excess deaths among all age groups since the beginning of 2021. But whats notable here is the same pattern weve seen in England and Wales. In January 2021, a lot of deaths were attributed to Covid-19. But then by around May 2021 excess deaths began to pick up again, however, this time they could not all be attributed to Covid-19.

There has then been a slight fall at the beginning of 2022 before they again picked up around May 2022, just like in England and Wales.

The question is why.

One could argue that perhaps the population of the United Kingdom is extremely unhealthy compared to the rest of the world and therefore more people are dying. But this unfortunately isnt a situation that is just isolated to the UK.

Most of Europe is still recording a significant amount of excess deaths, as can be seen in the following official chart compiled by Eurostat showing excess mortality across Europe in May 2022 

As you can see, the world is experiencing an extremely serious issue where tens to hundreds of thousands more people are dying than what is expected every single week, and further evidence suggests its because of the Covid-19 injections.

Mortality Rates per 100,000 are lowest among the Unvaccinated in all Age Groups

According to a report published on 6th July 2022, by the UKs Office for National Statistics, just hours before Boris Johnson announced he was resigning as Prime Minister of the UK, the mortality rates per 100,000 are the lowest among the unvaccinated population in all age groups.

The report is titled Deaths by Vaccination Status, England, 1 January 2021 to 31 May 2022, and it can be accessed on the ONS site here, and downloaded here.

Table 2 of the report contains the monthly age-standardised mortality rates by vaccination status by age group for deaths per 100,000 person-years in England up to May 2022.

Heres how the ONS present the data for 18 to 39-year-olds in May 2022 

We took the figures and produced charts for every single age group in a recently published article that can be read here. But here are a few examples to prove the severity of the problem.

The following chart shows the monthly age-standardised mortality rates by vaccination status among 18 to 39-year-olds for Non-Covid-19 deaths in England between January and May 2022 

In every single month since the beginning of 2022, partly vaccinated and double vaccinated 18-39-year-olds have been more likely to die than unvaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds. Triple vaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds however have had a mortality rate that has worsened by the month following the mass Booster campaign that occurred in the UK in December 2021.

In January, triple vaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds were ever so slightly less likely to die than unvaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds, with a mortality rate of 29.8 per 100,000 among the unvaccinated and 28.1 per 100,000 among the triple vaccinated.

But this all changed from February onwards. In February, triple vaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds were 27% more likely to die than unvaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds, with a mortality rate of 26.7 per 100k among the triple vaccinated and 21 per 100k among the unvaccinated.

Things have unfortunately got even worse for the triple vaccinated by May 2022 though. The data shows that triple vaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds were 52% more likely to die than unvaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds in May, with a mortality rate of 21.4 per 100k among the triple vaccinated and 14.1 among the unvaccinated.

The worst figures so far though are among the partly vaccinated, with May seeing partly vaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds 202% more likely to die than unvaccinated 18 to 39-year-olds.

The following chart shows the monthly age-standardised mortality rates by vaccination status among 60 to 69-year-olds for Non-Covid-19 deaths in England between January and May 2022 

The 60 to 69-year-olds show exactly the same pattern as 18 to 39-year-olds. The double and partly vaccinated have been more likely to die than the unvaccinated since the turn of the year, and the triple vaccinated have been more likely to die than the unvaccinated since February.

In January, partly vaccinated 60-69-year-olds were a shocking 256% more likely to die than unvaccinated 60-69-year-olds. Whilst in the same month, double vaccinated 60-69-year-olds were 223% more likely to die than unvaccinated 60-69-year-olds.

By May, triple vaccinated 60-69-year-olds were a troubling 117% more likely to die than unvaccinated 60-69-year-olds, with a mortality rate of 1801.3 per 100k among the triple vaccinated and a mortality rate of just 831.1 among the unvaccinated.

The following chart shows the monthly age-standardised mortality rates by vaccination status among 80 to 89-year-olds for Non-Covid-19 deaths in England between January and May 2022 

the unvaccinated the least likely to die every month since the turn of the year.

In April, double vaccinated 80-89-year-olds were 213% more likely to die than unvaccinated 80-89-year-olds, with a mortality rate of 7598.9 per 100k among the unvaccinated and a mortality rate of a troubling 23,781.8 per 100k among the double vaccinated.

But in the same month, partly vaccinated 80-89-year-olds were a terrifying 672% more likely to die than unvaccinated 80-89-year-olds, with a shocking mortality rate of 58,668.9 per 100k among the partly vaccinated.

By May 2022, triple vaccinated 80-89-year-olds were 142% more likely to die than unvaccinated 80-89-year-olds, with a mortality rate of 14,002.3 among the triple vaccinated and a mortality rate of 5,789.1 among the unvaccinated.

The following chart shows the monthly age-standardised mortality rates by vaccination status for non-Covid-19 deaths in England between January and May 2022 for all age groups 

The official figures quietly published by the UK Government provide indisputable evidence that the Covid-19 vaccines are deadly and are killing people in the thousands.

How else do you explain significant excess deaths and the fact that the vaccinated are significantly more likely to die than the unvaccinated in every single age group?

Depopulation occurs when the number of people losing their lives outweighs the number of babies being born. So one saving grace for the fact hundreds of thousands more people are dying every single week than expected would be a massive uplift in new births.

Unfortunately, this isnt the case, and the confidential Pfizer documents explain exactly why.

Newborn Baby Deaths hit critical levels for 2nd time in 7 Months in March 2022

Evidence contained in confidential Pfizer documents, which we will come to shortly, indicates that Covid-19 vaccination increases the risk of newborn babies sadly losing their lives. Unfortunately, we are now seeing evidence of this in real-world data and it can be found in the Public Health Scotland Covid-19 Wider Impacts dashboard.

SourceOfficial figures reveal that the rate of neonatal deaths increased to 4.6 per 1000 live births in March 2022, a 119% increase on the expected rate of deaths. This means the neonatal mortality rate breached an upper warning threshold known as the control limit for the second time in at least four years.

The last time it breached was in September 2021, when neonatal deaths per 1000 live births climbed to 5.1. Although the rate fluctuates month to month, the figure for both September 2021 and March 2022 is on a par with levels that were last typically seen in the late 1980s.

Public Health Scotland (PHS) did not formally announce they had launched an investigation, but this is what they are supposed to do when the upper warning threshold is reached, and they did so back in 2021.

At the time, PHS said the fact that the upper control limit has been exceeded indicates there is a higher likelihood that there are factors beyond random variation that may have contributed to the number of deaths that occurred.

Birth Rates in Germany have dropped dramatically

The official German birth data was recently released and updated to April 2022 and it continues to show an 11% drop from the average for the last 7 years and a 13% drop from 2021.

This is all occurring because of the Covid-19 injections and the confidential Pfizer documents prove it.

Confidential Pfizer Documents reveal 90% of Covid Vaccinated Pregnant Women lost their Baby

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) attempted to delay the release of Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine safety data for 75 years despite approving the injection after only 108 days of safety review on December 11th, 2020.

But in early January 2022, Federal Judge Mark Pittman ordered them to release 55,000 pages per month. They released 12,000 pages by the end of January.

Since then, PHMPT has posted all of the documents on its website. The latest drop happened on 1st August 2022.

One of the documents contained in the data dump is reissue_5.3.6 postmarketing experience.pdf. Page 12 of the confidential document contains data on the use of the Pfizer Covid-19 injection in pregnancy and lactation.

Pfizer state in the document that by 28th February 2021 there were 270 known cases of exposure to the mRNA injection during pregnancy.

Forty-six percent of the mothers (124) exposed to the Pfizer Covid-19 injection suffered an adverse reaction.

Of those 124 mothers suffering an adverse reaction, 49 were considered non-serious adverse reactions, whereas 75 were considered serious. This means 58% of the mothers who reported suffering adverse reactions suffered a serious adverse event ranging from uterine contraction to foetal death.

A total of 4 serious foetus/baby cases were reported due to exposure to the Pfizer injection.

But heres where things get rather concerning. Pfizer state that of the 270 pregnancies they have absolutely no idea what happened in 238 of them.

Read more at: Expose-News.com
(Natural News) It should be fairly obvious by now to rational, thinking, objective Americans that their federal law enforcers are corrupt, politicized and interested primarily in protecting the uniparty deep state.

After years of trying to depose Donald Trump (which began with a phony counterintelligence investigation into him based on the fabricated narrative that he was a Manchurian candidate loyal to Russia, was followed with leaked lies from the regime intelligence apparatus and false allegations that led to two impeachments, then culminated in a false flag operation at the U.S. Capitol Building on Jan. 6, 2021) there can be little doubt that the Justice Department and the FBI that falls under DOJ jurisdiction are both corrupt and compromised.

Now we have fresh evidence to back up those claims.

Several FBI whistleblowers have reached out to Sen. Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) regarding the internal effort to cover-up various crimes, corruption and misbehavior committed by first son Hunter Biden, as noted by evidence found on a laptop he abandoned at a Delaware computer repair shop in 2019. The laptop was turned over to the FBI in December of that year by the shop owner, and yet, nearly three years later, no charges of any kind have been filed against Hunter Biden despite a mountain of evidence.

Grassley noted on his Senate website:

Whistleblowers allege that Washington Field Office Assistant Special Agent in Charge Timothy Thibault disregarded agency guidelines requiring substantial factual predication to trigger investigations, while declining to move forward with other investigations despite proper predication. Thibault and Richard Pilger, director of the election crimes branch within the FBIs public integrity section, reportedly were instrumental in the opening of an investigation into the Trump campaign and its associates based in substantial part on information from left-aligned organization. Thibault allegedly scrubbed and diluted details of the sources political bias from a memo seeking the full investigation, which was ultimately approved by FBI Director Chris Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Whistleblowers claim that Thibault, Pilger and others didnt always adhere to agency policies in their supervision of various election-related matters, including campaign finance investigations across multiple presidential election cycles. These claims comport with testimony from former acting Principal Associate Deputy Attorney General Richard Donoghue, who previously told the committee that leadership within the public integrity section and election crimes branch frequently asserted authority they did not have, which frustrated and discouraged investigations.

We had concrete information about of lot of things of Hunter Biden has done, and he stopped that and labeled it as disinformation, Grassley told former GOP lawmaker and current Fox News host Trey Gowdy last week regarding the alleged actions of the FBI special agent. Now, that is political interference in the FBI. And it is going to cause people to lose credibility in the FBI, and every citizen ought to have the most confidence you could ever have in an agency like the FBI.

Now, were going to have  Director Wray before our committee on Thursday, and he is going to get a lot of questions about this, he continued. And he ought to know that he is going to have to show us concrete information and plan that he is going to be able to change this culture in the FBI where there is a power or party [that] makes a decision of whether or not investigations go ahead. It has got to be no political bias whatsoever in any of these decisions.

WATCH:

Watch the latest video at foxnews.com

The senator, who is the ranking member on the Senate Judiciary Committee, penned a blistering letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland on Monday.

In the letter, he wrote that if the allegations were proven it would prove that both the DOJ and FBI are institutionally corrupted to their very core.

Hunter Biden and his family are dirty  the FBI knows it, the Justice Department knows it, and they also know that Trump was never guilty of anything he was charged with.

Sources include:

En-Volve.com

ConservativeBrief.com
(Natural News) Most everyone on the planet wants to breathe clean air and drink clean water, but the far-lefts embrace of so-called green energy has been nothing short of lunacy.

Its true that fossil fuels produce carbons and pollutants, but with todays technology  especially for American- and Western-made automobiles  the amount of harmful emissions leased into the air and water are incredibly low by historical standards. And yet, the greenies in the West insist that windmills and solar panel farms can produce enough clean energy to power modern economies, despite a couple of decades worth of proof that demonstrates otherwise.

As such, the leaders of modern Western nations like Germany, overly influenced by the lunatics in the green movement, over-invested in such technologies and have discovered the hard way that they made a mistake.

Germany still uses fossil fuels, but the country ended its self-sufficiency in those industries long ago, choosing instead to rely on NATO nemesis Russia for Berlins oil and gas imports. After Russia invaded Ukraine and the West imposed sanctions, Germany (and every other European country too reliant on Moscow for energy) found out that Donald Trump was right when he insisted they should rebuild their own energy industries.

Now, German leaders have been forced to rethink previous decisions to cut their energy production from traditional sources including nuclear power, which generates no emissions whatsoever.

According to DW.com in March, shortly after Russias invasion:

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has raised the possibility of lengthening the life of the countrys nuclear power stations. Berlins decision to get rid of the plants has come under question amid energy security concerns.

Germany famously decided to stop using atomic energy in 2011, and the last remaining plants were set to close at the end of this year.

That said, several German politicians are now pushing to once again extend the life of the nuclear plants because Russia has become overtly hostile and the world is shifting from a unipolar one under the U.S. to a multipolar planet with power divided between the U.S. and the West and the Russian and Chinese economies.

During a visit to a factory in western Germany where an important gas turbine is being stored, Scholz said that the amount of power generated by the countrys existing nuclear plants is small. Nevertheless, that can make sense to keep the plants in operation, he said.

Germanys government has said that the objective is to move to completely renewable energy alternatives and that will be key to solving its needs. But Scholz said last week that transition was not occurring fast enough in many parts of the country, such as Bavaria.

The expansion of power line capacities, of the transmission grid in the south, has not progressed as quickly as was planned, the chancellor said.

We will act for the whole of Germany, we will support all regions of Germany in the best possible way so that the energy supply for all citizens and all companies can be guaranteed as best as possible, he continued.

The country has planned to end any existing reliance on nuclear power for more than a decade. For example, Germanys Social Democrat government, under Merkels predecessor Gerhard Schroder, announced that the country would quit nuclear power by 2022. His successor, Angela Merkel, herself a former physicist, sought to extend nuclear power use until 2037, calling it a bridging technology until clear alternatives could be found and, more importantly, built and implemented.

However, after the Fukushima disaster in Japan in 2011, Merkel decided to stick to the original phaseout plan. Of Germanys six nuclear plants, which provided 13.3 percent of the countrys energy, three were closed last year, with the remaining three at Emsland, Isar and Neckarwestheim planned for closure by years end.

But wind and solar only make up 40 percent of the countrys energy needs at present, so it seems like national suicide to get rid of a reliable and clean source of energy in the meantime.

The technology is simply not here at present to replace, cheap, affordable and fairly clean-burning fossil fuels. But that doesnt matter: The left-wing loonies pushing this transition are winning the argument. And modern nations like Germany are going to suffer.

Sources include:

DW.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Patient healthcare advocate Priscilla Romans believe life is much better for people who are in control of their healthcare.

Its great to share love with our clients and its just amazing to see some of their journeys. Life changes for people when they start feeling like they are in control of their healthcare, when they dont feel so dependent on a broken system, Romans told host Robert Scott Bell during the August 1 episode of The Robert Scott Bell Show on Brighteon.TV.

She was referring to the clients of Graith Care, which she founded in March 2020.

Romans started to see and understand some of the problems in the healthcare system as a registered nurse. The former operations manager of Blue Cross and Blue Shield realized that patients dont need to come back to a hospital or healthcare facility when all they need is better healthcare options.

There is something way better than what the current healthcare system is delivering. she said. (Related: Lawfare with Tom Renz: Telehealth model to change healthcare in a much better way  Brighteon.TV)

The CEO of Graith Care explained that its concept is very simple and it centers on helping people in need. Graith Care is an independent patient advocate that breaks down healthcare barriers to save time and money while bringing back control and transparency to patients.

Graith Care provides medical advocacy, consultation, advice and recommendations to patients.

People want better options

Graith Care has lots of advocates with different backgrounds, such as alternatives, holistic, pediatrics, NICU, seniors, physical therapy, among others who are ready to help people. Romans said that after doing it on her own for almost a year, she decided to start bringing other advocates who are willing to help out people.

So I have advocates all around the U.S. and internationally, we have served people in 44 states up to this time. It actually might be up to 46 or 47 states by now. And were serving people internationally, Romans said.

Her international advocates are already taking overseas calls from Canada, Australia, Greece, South Africa and Spain.

People want better options and the people we have talked to have the same problem with the current system that only gives them one way of getting something done  which is an insurance-directed path, she said.

Romans added that there is a need for allopathic and natural treatments that fit the protocol of a patient and not the protocol of the big healthcare system.

So when we talk about family planning, it should be very directed in terms of the needs of the individual. And thats what the healthcare system doesnt do because they have got one slice, one protocol. And weve seen that very clearly with what theyve done with the COVID protocol treatments. And we know vitamin C, which is a great treatment option for COVID, is not being offered in hospitals, Romans said.

Bell agreed, adding that vitamin C therapy is a legitimate allopathic intervention because ascorbic acid has a therapeutic benefit in terms of healthcare interventions.

Unfortunately, Romans noted that most people dont change without a sense of urgency about something that they are feeling pain about.

People need to understand the real cost of healthcare. If they dont start engaging in their own health care, they are going to continue to get sick and a broken healthcare system will not be willing to assist them, Romans said. So people have to really engage. And thats why we have advocates that we like to match people with so we can help them.

Follow HealthCoverage.news for more news about the healthcare system in America.

Watch the August 1 episode of The Robert Scott Bell Show below. Catch new episodes of the program every Monday at 4 p.m. on Brighteon.TV.

More related stories:

Elizabeth Warren pushing for government-run health care system to solve the problem of government-run health care systems.

Colorado health care system refuses to operate on unvaccinated individuals.

Drager CEO: No public healthcare for the unvaccinated.

175 Employees fired from multi-state healthcare system for not getting vaccinated.

UMass Memorial hospital fires 200 unvaccinated employees when they should be HIRING those with natural immunity an engineered collapse of the health care system,

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

LinkedIn.com

GraithCare.com
(Natural News) A Dutch vaccinologist who has co-developed various vaccines says that those for the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) are exceptionally deadly.

According to Dr. Theo Schetters, one out of every 800 people over the age of 60 who gets jabbed for the Fauci Flu will die because of it. This is an astoundingly high death rate, and one that the Western media refuses to acknowledge.

As far as the American public is concerned, Chinese Virus injections are safe and effective and stop covid in its tracks. This is according to government officials and the media talking-heads who insist that we all need to just shut up and roll up our sleeves.

The Dutch government, Schetters says, found that excess deaths in The Netherlands are pronounced ever since the rollout of the shots under Operation Warp Speed. The timing of when they are administered as well as the number of injections also plays a role.

The recipient of the Medal of Honour of the Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Montpellier in France, Schetters told Dr. Robert Malone, the inventor of mRNA (messenger RNA) vaccine technology that Dutch doctors are seeing all sorts of symptoms that they do not know what it is.

In the Netherlands, he added, now its very clear that there is a good correlation between the number of vaccinations that are given to people and the number of people that die within a week after that, further noting that the shots potentially affect all organs.

One in 800 is just short-term deaths  what about the people who die months or years from now due to the shots?

Typically with a given vaccine, there are a general set of side effects that, if they appear in a patient, are uniform and easily identifiable. This is not the case with Chinese Virus injections.

According to Schetters, covid injection adverse events are variable and many, which makes them hard to both quantify and qualify for data collection purposes. Covid jab harm can be anything, he says, surfacing very difficult to a statistical level.

And thats why we do analysis on all-cause mortality, because say, okay, and if we do not know what is exactly related to vaccination, of course, the coagulation problems, myocarditis, we know that, but there are many more things happening at the moment, he added during his conversation with Malone.

In the Netherlands now, its very clear that there is a good correlation between the number of vaccinations that are given to people and the number of people that die within a week after that. So lets say in this week we gave 10,000 vaccinations. Then in this week, we have something like 125 excess [deaths] in that week.

The correlation is so undeniable that Schetters wrote a letter to the Director of the Institute of Health in The Netherlands to notify him concerning the findings. The hope is that the country will take the matter seriously and potentially even halt all further administration of the injections.

So what weve done is we have written a registered letter to the director of our Institute of Health and presenting the results and expressing my concerns, Schetters explained about his actions.

And just with the question, from a precautionary point of view, please reconsider vaccination strategy because I think this is a real warning. And so its not that everybody dies. Actually, I do a rough calculation, its one in 800.

Keep in mind that these are just immediate deaths that occur within the first week post-injection. How many more people will die from the shots months or even years down the road that never get tabulated with the rest of the data?

The latest Fauci Flu-shot related news can be found at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

DailySceptic.org

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Critical Gender Theory is the newest term being used to describe transgender and LGBT indoctrination of children at public schools. And what it entails is virtually indistinguishable from the grooming tactics used by sexual predators and pedophiles against their human prey.

Almost every element of inclusion and becoming oneself, as defined by the LGBT cultists who are teaching Americas children, is taken straight from the child predator playbook. All of it aims to sexualize children at the youngest age possible so adult perverts can have their way with them.

Experts who spoke to the Daily Caller say the most common grooming tactics include cultivating a positive reputation within a childs community; introducing children to sexualized topics or imagery; isolating children from their parents; and encouraging children to keep secrets.

Over the past several years, such tactics have increased in prevalence throughout Americas public schools, which is why increasingly more children now want to lob off their body parts and take gender-bending pharmaceuticals in order to go trans.

I cant think of too many times where I would think that an unrelated person should say, Dont say this to your parents,' says Daniel Pollack, a professor within the Wurzweiler School of Social Work at Yeshiva University. (Related: Public school districts that refuse to groom students into transgenderism could lose their lunch funding under Bidens progressive LGBT agenda.)

Sending your child to public school is just asking for sexual predators to take full advantage

If any sexual education is to take place in the classroom  and even this is questionable since parents are the ones who should be talking to their children about sex  then parents must be kept in the loop about everything being taught, says Chris Newlin, executive director of the National Childrens Advocacy Center.

[Parents] should be informed [about sex education], especially the younger kids are, Newlin is quoted as saying. Im just not a fan of things being held secret from parents, and kids being told not to tell.

This is a far cry from what is now taking place in Wisconsin, for instance. The Supreme Court of that state ruled earlier this month that public schools are free to indoctrinate children into changing their gender identity without informing parents. Here are a few other examples:

 In Texas, an elementary school reportedly told five-year-olds not to tell their parents what was discussed during pride week classroom discussions.

 In Philadelphia, public school students can be groomed into a trans lifestyle without their parents having to know about it.

 In Canada, one school recently held a pride dance that parents were prohibited from attending.

All of this is textbook grooming, experts say, though it is disguised in modern terms that claim it is all for the benefit of children who simply wish to become their true selves.

The Cambridge English Dictionary defines a groomer in the following way. See if you think it defines the public school indoctrinators who parade their deviancy and mental illness all over TikTok:

The criminal activity of becoming friends with a child in order to try to persuade the child to have a sexual relationship

That description certainly covers so-called Drag Queen Story Hour, which aims to sexualize infants and babies into LGBT deviancy using colorful cartoon imagery and other deceptions.

This is extremely dangerous and an immense violation of the rights of parents to know whats happening to their children, says Christopher Rufo, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute. It opens up kids to manipulation, indoctrination and abuse.

To keep up with the latest news about Bidens LGBT agenda at public schools, be sure to check out Groomers.news.

Sources for this article include:

DailyCaller.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) At a recent press conference, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov once again lobbed the accusation that the Pentagon (aka the Pentagram) helped Ukraine develop biological warfare facilities in both Kyiv and Odessa.

Echoing the words of top-ranking Russian diplomatic negotiators at the Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Belarus, Lavrov explained that Russia has compiled strong evidence pointing to the fact that the Pentagon is preoccupied with the chemical and biological installations in Ukraine.

The Pentagon built two biowarfare labs and they have been developing pathogens there in Kyiv and in Odessa, he added, explaining that the Pentagons biggest concern with the facilities now is losing control over them.

And you know what it may be like in future, he added. And the Americans decline flatly and resolutely to start an inspection mechanism as part of the convention for the prohibition of chemical weapons.

And they build new chemical and biological facilities all across Russian borders. (Related: The Pentagon has spent hundreds of billions of American taxpayer dollars building bioweapons factories in Ukraine.)

CIA is on the ground in droves in Ukraine training army to fight Russia

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is also deeply embedded with Ukraine. Lavrov says CIA agents have been swarming Ukraine to provide training for the Ukrainian army  and not to wage war with Poland as some believe.

These deep state operations in Ukraine are a threat to Russia, fully justifying the special operation launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin back in February.

When developments in Iraq happened, when the United States claimed it was a threat to the U.S. national security, did anyone ask back then why the United States decided to bring a country 10,000 kilometers off its coast to order, because the U.S. is a great power? Lavrov asked, comparing Russias predicament to that of the United States back in 2003.

When Russia says there is a threat to us, they start telling us that there is not a threat at all, but you know, we will decide what is needed to provide for our security, he added. And its close and next to our borders  we will not go 10,000 kilometers away to enforce our rules.

This is an interesting comparison, considering the U.S. claim that Iraq was harboring weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) turned out to be a farce. Is Russia engaging in the same manipulative tactics to justify its Ukraine invasion, or is the Pentagon really involved in bioweapons programs there?

Russia accuses U.S. of shrouding its bioweapons programs in secrecy

Back in May 2020, Lavrov accused America of categorically opposing the adoption of a protocol to the convention of banning biological and toxin weapons, which would establish a mechanism to verify compliance by member countries with their obligation not to produce such weapons.

The United States reluctance to ensure transparency of its military-biological activities in different regions of the world, of course, raises questions about what is really happening and what goals are being pursued, he added at a news conference following a virtual meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

These laboratories are densely formed along the perimeter of the borders of the Russian Federation, and, accordingly, next to the borders of the Peoples Republic of China.

Adding to the conversation, Leonid Slutsky, head of the Duma Committee on International Affairs and a member of the Russian delegation at the talks with Ukraine, says Russia has all the evidence and is willing to provide an analysis of documents to prove that the Pentagon is building bioweapons in Ukraine.

On February 24, the official day-one of the invasion, Ukraine reportedly received an order to immediately destroy all really dangerous pathogens at U.S.-run laboratories, including the causative agents of plague, anthrax, tularemia, cholera, and others.

We are getting more and more confirmation that Russia had more than good reasons for conducting a special military operation to demilitarize Ukraine, Slutsky wrote on his Telegram channel.

Instead of acknowledging that something needed to be done to stop these secret operations in Ukraine, which threaten the entire world, many countries instead opted for Russophobic fits, Slutsky says.

Kiev blatantly violated its international obligations, including the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and toxic weapons and on their destruction (BTWC), and few are acknowledging this.

In launching the attack, Putin clarified that the goal was simply the protection of people who have been subjected to bullying and genocide by the Kiev regime for eight years. The plan to accomplish this was the demilitarization and denazification of Ukraine.

In the course of a special military operation, the facts of an emergency cleansing by the Kiev regime of traces of a military biological program being implemented in Ukraine, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, were uncovered, added Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov.

The latest news about the conflict in Ukraine can be found at Chaos.news.

Sources for this article include:

TheLibertyBeacon.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Spanish officials and law enforcers have warned that the governments new energy-saving measures could result in higher levels of crime.

On August 1, the Spanish government greenlit the action plan to help reduce energy consumption in the country. The said plan introduced restrictions on using energy-intensive appliances in public places, such as limiting the minimum temperature of air conditioners to 80.6 F. The government also agreed to ban lighting in store windows past 10 p.m. local time and mandatory automatic door closers.

However, Community of Madrid President Isabel Diaz Ayuso has declared that the Spanish capital is not going to switch off.

That generates insecurity and scares off tourism and consumption. It brings darkness, poverty and sadness, even as the government covers up the question of what savings it will apply to itself, Ayuso said.

Marta Gonzalez, policies coordinator of the Peoples Party, agreed with the regional chief. She added that pulling the plug on shop window lighting and outdoor lighting of public buildings could put women at risk. The countrys law enforcement agencies confirmed that turning off shop windows at 10 p.m. could encourage illegal activities.

Two heatwaves this summer have left the government scrambling to limit emissions by reducing energy consumption.

Climate change kills: it kills people, as we have seen; it also kills our ecosystem, our biodiversity, and it also destroys the things we as a society hold dear  our houses, our businesses, our livestock, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said last month during his visit to regions that were heavily damaged by wildfires.

Spanish Ecological Transition Minister Teresa Ribera said the energy regulations would be maintained until November 2023.

Nearly all NOAA temperature stations fail to meet agencys own standards

The climate change Sanchez talked about is actually a hoax. (Related: Climate change, diversity and equity: its ALL a scam.)

In the U.S., top free-market think tank Heartland Institute revealed in a report that 96 percent of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) temperature stations used to measure heat have failed to meet the agencys own uncorrupted placement standards.

According to the research, the stations measurements are affected by urbanization such as proximity to asphalt, machinery and other heat-producing heat-trapping, or heat-accentuating objects. The institute compiled the report using satellite and in-person surveys of NOAA weather stations that contribute to the official land temperatures in the country.

With a 96 percent warm bias in U.S. temperature measurements, it is impossible to use any statistical methods to derive an accurate climate trend for the U.S. the teams study director and senior fellow at the Heartland Institute Anthony Watts said. Data from the stations that have not been corrupted by faulty placement show a rate of warming in the United States reduced by almost half compared to all stations.

The research also revealed that an instruction of the same agency has been constantly violated.

NOAAs Requirements and Standards for National Weather Service Climate Observations instructs that temperature data instruments must be over level terrain (earth or sod) typical of the area around the station and at least 100 feet from any extensive concrete or paved surface,' Heartland Institute said in a press release. All attempts will be made to avoid areas where rough terrain or air drainage are proven to result in non-representative temperature data.

H. Sterling Burnett, director of the Arthur B. Robinson Center for Climate and Environment Policy at the Heartland Institute, said: This new study is evidence of two things. First, the government is either inept or stubbornly refuses to learn from its mistakes for political reasons. Second, the governments official temperature record cant be trusted. It reflects a clear urban heat bias effect, not national temperature trends.

Visit Climate.news for more news related to climate change scams proliferated by the alarmists.

Watch the below video that talks about 50 years of failed climate expert predictions.

This video is from the Light Bulb Initiative channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

ENERGY COLLAPSE: Australian government asks residents to turn off lights to avert power blackouts.

Western Europe on SUICIDE WATCH as food, energy collapse gets worse by the day how many will starve or freeze this coming winter?

The Dr. Ardis Show: Geoengineering expert Dane Wigington says climate engineering is the single most destructive human activity  Brighteon.TV.

Stop your propaganda! MSM says Zoe becomes the worlds first named heat wave, but we already had Apocalypse 4800 in Italy and Lucifer in 2021 across Europe.

Sources include:

InfoWars.com

TheGuardian.com

ChesterStandard.co.uk

Heartland.org

Breitbart.com

NWS.NOAA.gov

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) American courts have lost their way and have forgotten about the United States Constitution, according to The Zelenko Report co-host Kevin Jenkins.

The courts forgot about what the Constitution is. And now they are putting these edicts out based on what the CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] says or what the government says when in fact they should be following the letter of the law, Jenkins said during the August 1 inaugural episode of The Zelenko Report on Brighteon.TV.

Jenkins and co-host Ann Vandersteel also head the Zelenko Freedom Foundation.

Zelenko Freedom Foundation empowers people

Throughout the inaugural episode of the program, the two talked about the legacy of the late Dr. Vladimir Zelenko and the Zelenko Freedom Foundation.

Jenkins, also the chief executive officer of FreedomMed.org, said the Zelenko Freedom Foundation is about empowering people and trying to figure out the science.

That makes Jackie Schaul a fitting first guest of the show. Schaul is fighting medical tyranny in defense of her two children who had been vaccinated with the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) shots.

Vandersteel noted that Colorado magistrate Karen Hubler denied Schauls petition for a new attorney. Hubler also denied Schauls motion for continuance when the latter didnt have representation at the start of the hearing. (Related: Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals says Biden can force federal employees to get vaccinated for covid against their will.)

The same magistrate ruled in favor of going ahead and giving Schauls children their first dose even though the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had not even approved the COVID-19 vaccines for children at the time.

Jenkins knew this was going to happen. We knew this was going to split up families. It was going to cause chaos because thats what they wanted to do, he said.

Despite all the trouble, Schaul is still pushing forward to protect her children and her rights as an American citizen. Schaul related that a judge had ruled in her favor by saying that magistrate Hublers decisions were to be undone and reversed because it was unjustified. Shes also making sure to improve her childrens health after being vaccinated.

Jenkins pointed out that theres no need to vaccinate children because they have perfect immune systems.

But this is not about that. This is about the further commoditization of the body. This is about clear ownership of the body. They want to profit off of our bodies. They want to be able to rewrite the DNA of our fate, Jenkins said.

He added that Schaul standing up for her rights is one of the best things any person can do. It is time for Americans to understand that their children are being targeted by people who are destroying life, Jenkins said. The American peoples only option is to stand up for the Constitution, stand up for the country and make sure this will never happen again.

Schaul agreed, saying that Americans all need to stand together and let their voice be heard. She added that the Americans must not allow their rights to be taken away and that they must continue to fight tyranny.

Follow HealthFreedom.news for more news related to the fight for health freedom.

Watch the August 1 episode of The Zelenko Report below. Catch new episodes of The Zelenko Report with Ann Vandersteel and Kevin Jenkins every weekday at 1-2 p.m. on Brighteon.TV.

More related stories:

Study: COVID vaccination causes vaccine-associated enhanced disease in children.

Latest CDC data shows 106 children died, 48,033 suffered adverse reactions following COVID-19 vaccination.

REVEALED: Triple-vaxxed kids in England 137 times MORE LIKELY to DIE from Covid-19 than unvaccinated children  report buried as Prime Minister Boris Johnson resigned.

White House RESCINDS mask mandate for public transportation following federal court ruling.

Hospitals are retracting their COVID-19 vaccine mandates due to federal court rulings and labor shortages.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

LinkedIn.com
Dolphins saved a British swimmer from a shark off the coast of New Zealand, according to UK media reporting on Saturday, August 6. The so-called "hero dolphins" reportedly formed a protective circle around him to scare of the ocean predator. The incident occurred as the swimmer was competing in a 16-mile challenge to swim across the Cook Strait.

Aside from the New Zealand coast, there have been multiple incidents dubbed as 'dolphin rescues' around the world. While marine experts claim that dolphins are also susceptible to aggressive behavior, the aquatic mammals are rarely compared to the ferocious and predatory behaviors of sharks.

A growing body of scientific evidence show that dolphins not only possess intelligence but they are also capable of fighting sharks in some circumstances, at least when a pod of dolphins stick together. Other contenders include orcas or killer whales against the previous ocean apex predator, great white sharks.

New Zealand Dolphin Rescue

The dolphin rescue in New Zealand was caught on video, which was also posted by the Daily Mail on its article on Saturday. The incident transpired when the swimmer named Adam Walker from Nottingham was traversing through the open waters if Cook Strait.

After three hours, a pod of dolphins suddenly surrounded him when a great white shark appeared only a few feet away below him. At the time of the incident in 2014, Walker reportedly felt the dolphins were protecting and guiding him home.

Also Read: Dolphins Deliberately 'Get High' Using Toxins of Pufferfish

Related Dolphin Rescue Incidents

Incidents related to dolphins rescuing people from either in the open seas or oceans have been known for a long time. Either stranded in the waters or being threatened by sharks, dolphins earned their reputation as a social marine animal, which have captured the hearts of many.

In New Zealand, a related incident back in 2004 saw a pod of dolphins saving a group of swimmers from a great white shark off coast of northern New Zealand.

The swimmers include a lifeguard who took his daughter and two of her friends for a swim near the town of Whangarei, according to the Northern Advocate newspaper, as cited by The Guardian.

Meanwhile, thousands of miles away, dolphins also saved a swimmer after being stranded for nearly 12 hours off the coast of Ireland in 2021. The rescue fully manifested when local authorities were drawn to a pod of dolphins surrounding the floating simmer, as reported by the BBC.

Dolphins Against Sharks

According to the Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC), large sharks are known for preying on dolphins, particularly very young calves and sick adult dolphins.

Sharks, being major predators for dolphins, is not always the case. This is due to the fact that orcas, which are large members of the dolphin family, are known for hunting and killing the predatory marine animals for their liver, the WDC adds.

For smaller dolphins, fighting sharks are still an option due to their advantage of safety in numbers and by using their strong snouts to ram sharks to cause injuries, according to the non-profit organization.

Related Article: 10 Disturbing Facts About Dolphins You'll Wish You Never Knew!
Animal lives are being revealed via hidden DNA. New research on the genetic material or eDNA, plants, and animals shed has astonishing biological insights.

Salamander Observation

A Rio Grande siren, a slippery, two-legged, foot-long salamander protected by the state of Texas, hadn't been seen in the area of Eagle Pass, a hamlet on the border between the United States and Mexico, for more than 140 years. But in 2019, Mississippi State University Ph.D. candidate and biologist Krista Ruppert recognized she didn't need a siren to demonstrate that they were still present.

All she needed was some murky water to filter.

DNA and eDNA Research

Ruppert discovered enough environmental DNA at Eagle Pass, the genetic material left behind when creatures move through life by crawling, swimming, or flapping, to prove that the elusive amphibians still exist at the westernmost extent of their known range.

Environmental DNA, or eDNA, has transformed marine and aquatic research in the last ten years by enabling researchers to sample "a whole ecosystem" with just one liter of water.

Now, eDNA has emerged as the skeleton key for scientists after a flurry of tests on the dry ground over the previous several years. It may be customized to investigate any life, is inexpensive, noninvasive, easy to use, and frequently takes less time and effort than earlier techniques.

Rose eDNA

To extract any DNA from the surface of a bouquet of wildflowers they had collected from two Danish fields, researchers from Aarhus University in Denmark took a risky step in 2017.

According to biology assistant professor Eva Egelyng Sigsgaard, "We were genuinely skeptical as to whether this would even work."

To their amazement, one wild celery bloom contained DNA from 25 different bug, spider, and arthropod species. They discovered eDNA from at least 135 species with a wide range of diversity on 56 flowers, including a variety of pollinators, moths, bees, and predatory beetles.

Environmental DNA extracted from flowers may offer crucial information about a region's or a plant species' most active pollinators. For instance, experts think that moths and flies contribute far less than is believed and might be a key focus of conservation efforts.

Also Read: Can Science Bring Back Extinct Species

DNA in the Sand

White sand beaches in Florida are coated in eDNA, not only by visitors. Individual loggerhead turtle hatchlings, weighing about two quarters, were observed by leaving flipper prints as they journeyed from the nest to the sea by researchers from the University of Florida.

Additional examination of the sand samples revealed that eDNA could assist researchers in tracking the spread of illness and species.

The microscopic tracks also included eDNA from ChHV5, a virus that harms juvenile turtles of several species by causing the malignant growths known as fibropapillomatosis. The finding calls into question the notion that the illness spreads horizontally through the water column or by direct contact between young turtles.

Understanding Marine Life Dynamics

Scientists still don't fully understand the population dynamics of the whale shark, a mysterious behemoth that loves the deep ocean and doesn't need to surface for breath.

Scientists often use hand spears to harvest biopsies from the bodies of endangered sharks to learn about the relationships between various populations.

Dugal and her colleagues identified each shark's haplotypes-genetic markers that reveal a population's ancestry and relationship to other populations-by taking eDNA samples from a few meters behind whale sharks. They matched exactly with conventional biopsies collected from the same people.

Dugal and her colleagues identified each shark's haplotypes-genetic markers that reveal a population's ancestry and relationship to other populations-by taking eDNA samples from a few meters behind whale sharks. They matched exactly with conventional biopsies collected from the same people.

Studying Invertebrate

However, some little creatures naturally collect genetic material from the species they come into contact with during their lifetimes; thus, DNA is not always merely left behind.

IDNA, or invertebrate-acquired DNA, is a thriving sector of eDNA where "natural samplers" provide scientists a useful shortcut.

Early research on sea sponges revealed that they unintentionally establish eDNA repositories while they filter-feed. In contrast, leeches retain a genetic memory of their last blood meals that may last up to four months. Additionally, scientists have discovered species-level DNA in the stomachs of dung beetles that consumed the waste products of various animals, including samples from sambar deer and bearded pigs.

DNA Remnants in Dry Plants

German researchers from Trier University and the Max Plank Institute conducted their eDNA research in an uncomfortable manner close to home. At teas and spices bought in German grocery stores, the scientists discovered eDNA from 1,279 species of insects, spiders, and other arthropods.

According to the scientists, the discovery that eDNA is well-preserved on dry plant matter kept at room temperature opens the door to a potentially vast new body of knowledge. Historical botanical specimens that have been amassed worldwide for decades may include as-yet-unexplored knowledge about the species that surrounded them in life.

Related Article: Natural Recipe: How the Earth Managed to Create Thousands of Minerals Vital for Survival

For similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
A beluga whale entered France's River Seine which leads southward to the capital city of Paris. The rare incident, which started last week, has forced French authorities in an ongoing rescue effort to save the white whale. The marine animal is not accustomed to freshwater, which deviates from its natural habitat in the Arctic waters. With this, authorities are in a race against time to save its life.

Local sources indicate the whale has been extremely skinny when it entered the French river since it was first spotted on Tuesday, August 2. Native to the freezing waters of the Arctic and sub-Arctic, experts believe the beluga whale has little time to survive if local officials fail to bring it out of the river and into its original home. However, the challenge remains on how it will be lured out of the French waters.

In recent years, related whale strandings have been reported in multiple countries in the Northern Hemisphere. Recent research suggests that the melting of ice due to climate change and global warming in the northern polar region have driven out not only whales but also other Arctic animals, including polar bears.

River Seine Beluga Whale

France is reportedly facing a crisis in the form of a stranded beluga whale as of Monday, August 8, as emergency personnel, firefighters, law enforcement, military, and the coast guard are involved in a massive rescue operation to save the animal.

The operation aims to bring back the white whale into its natural saltwater habitat. From there, officials reportedly said airlifting it back to its home is a necessity since the mammal's chances of survival is still slim even it makes out of the River Seine.

Emmanuel Pasco-Viel, operations coordinator of Normandy's I'Eure prefecture and responsible for monitoring the situation, told NBC News the situation is puzzling; prompting the French government to use even a helicopter or drones to monitor the whale.

Also Read: Lone Beluga Whale Discovered More than a Thousand Miles Away From Home in Seattle

Stationary But Still Alive

In its latest developments, the Beluga whale as of Monday afternoon (local time) has refused to be fed and is now clinging on its life.

Furthermore, the malnourished beluga whale is no longer progressing and remains stationary but is still alive, according to the Sea Shepherd, an environmental group, as cited by France's news outlet The Local.

Since Friday, August 5, the whale remains in a deadlock in the river approximately 70 kilometers north of the French capital.

Strange Phenomenon

Related incidents have occurred not only in France but also in Norway and the United States in recent months and years.

In October 2021, a beluga whale was seen swimming off the coast of Seattle in Washington, United States, which is thousand miles away from its Arctic home.

In May 2021, an orca or killer whale died in the River Seine after similar attempts failed to bring it back to the ocean.

In April 2019, another friendly and sociable white whale was trapped and freed fishing harness in the icy waters of Norway, according to the Independent.

Related Article: Beluga Cam: Livestream of 55,000 Beluga Whales Migrating from Arctic Waters into Canada Made Possible
Strip mining has reportedly worsened the deadly Kentucky flooding in late July, according to US mining authorities.

Latest reports this week indicated that former mining regulators blame the said mining activity, which transpired prior to the heavy rain-triggered catastrophic flooding in Eastern Kentucky.

The regulators are calling for an investigation, urging state and federal authorities to take action and determine the role strip mining has played when it comes to setting conditions that favor the rapid accumulation of floodwaters and weakening of the landscape during the thunderstorm-induced torrential rain in the mountainous region of the Appalachians.

Over a week ago, mountain flooding resulted in the overflow of water levels in inland bodies of water in Eastern Kentucky.

The natural disaster left at least 37 dead and hundreds remain unaccounted for.

In addition, the raging flood destroyed establishments and infrastructure, including homes, roads, and bridges.

The destruction forced Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to declare a state of emergency.

In the past, both surface mining and underground mining have been blamed for increasing flood risks.

Mining sites from previous weather events have led not only to the deaths of mine workers but also served as catalysts for preventing water retention and favors rapid water runoff, especially in mountain areas.

Call for Investigation

Two former state and federal mining regulators urged the US government to conduct the investigation, as reported by Inside Climate News, a non-profit environmental organization.

The former mining officials emphasized that the strip mining has somehow altered the ground that led to the increased severity of the recent flooding.

If an area and its soil have been strip mined and the upper parts of the soil and rock have been dumped into a valley fill, the surface loses its vegetation and its ability to hold water, according to Jack Spadaro, a former mine-safety engineer, as cited by the organization.

Also Read: Researchers Use Seismic Analysis to Separate Full Signals From Heavy Machinery in Underground Coal Mines

Eastern Kentucky Flooding

USA Today cited a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study on climate change and surface mining.

The research forecasted that an increased extreme rainfall due to global warming could affect stream flows in the Ohio River Basin, which includes the Appalachian coal country.

The US media outlet also mentioned the housing patterns in Eastern Kentucky contributed to the area's vulnerability to the flooding.

A number of residences have been reported to be scattered along roadways adjacent to creed situated under steep hillsides.

What is Strip Mining?

The statewide organization Kentuckians for the Commonwealth (KTFC) claimed that the Appalachian Mountains have been affected by mountaintop removal, strip mining, and its associated valley fills, creating inconducive living conditions for residents in nearby communities.

Strip mining, as part of above-ground mining, is a mineral-extraction process of removing Earth's overburden, a layer of unnecessary material.

Its main purpose is to extract material underneath the rubble.

Multiple sources have shown strip mining is utilized in coal reserves and is ideal in relatively flat, shallow coal and other deposits, as cited by Science Direct, an online research database.

Related Article: Mountain Flooding Threatens Kentucky Once Again After Floodwaters Killed At Least 37 People
In an effort to strengthen its response to the outbreak, the US this week designated monkeypox a public health emergency.

The virus is still mostly transmitted by homosexual and bisexual males, but owing to vaccination shortages, researchers fear the disease may spread to other communities.

Monkeypox is seldom lethal and spreads by contact with pus-filled lesions.

How does monkeypox spread?

People may be experiencing memories of the time when they had to wipe off countertops and foodstuffs to get rid of the coronavirus as monkeypox sweeps across the country.

As per Inquirer, the danger of contracting monkeypox is still minimal for the majority of people.

In the current outbreak, 98% of infections have involved adult males who have had intercourse with the same sex.

How is the virus dispersing then? The monkeypox virus is thought to spread in three primary ways: directly through contact with an infected person's rash, indirectly through contact with contaminated items and textiles, or indirectly through respiratory droplets created when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Additionally, there is proof that a woman who is pregnant can pass the virus to her fetus through the placenta.

Your chance of contracting monkeypox can depend on a variety of variables, including having sex, attending crowded events, or caring for someone who is unwell.

According to Dr. Jay Varma, a physician and epidemiologist who specializes in infectious diseases at Weill Cornell Medical School in New York City, a person's susceptibility to infection may depend on how close you are to someone who is ill, how contagious they are, how much time you spend in their vicinity, and your own health.

As of July 25, a technical study by the U.S. revealed that 99.1% of monkeypox cases in the country included people who were born male.

White, non-Hispanic men made up around 38% of the cases. Male Blacks made up another 26% of the population, while male Hispanics made up 32%.

60% of cases of monkeypox in Africa, where it has been reported regularly since the 1970s, are in men, and 40% are in women.

Also Read: WHO Declares Current Monkeypox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern

The different levels of risks in monkeypox

High danger

Close, personal contact with an infected person is what puts a person at the most risk of contracting the virus, as per The New York Times.

This covers any skin-to-skin contact, such as that experienced during intercourse or when caressing, embracing, massaging, or kissing another person.

Although they may provide an extra layer of protection during sex, condoms are unlikely to shield you from touching sores on an infected person's groin, thighs, buttocks, or other body areas.

According to Dr. Bernard Camins, the medical director for infection control at the Mount Sinai Health System, intimate household contacts with roommates and family members are also at a markedly increased risk of contracting monkeypox.

Moderate risk

Face-to-face or almost face-to-face contact poses a higher risk of respiratory droplet transmission than would being several feet away.

Health officials advise keeping at least 6 feet away from patients who aren't wearing masks to prevent being exposed, but other experts contend that this distance is arbitrary.

However, covering up indoors is an excellent idea if you want to protect yourself against monkeypox, just like with Covid-19.

Especially in regions of the country where infections are prevalent, going to a crowded indoor party might put you in danger of contracting the virus.

Raves, where attendees are dancing together for extended periods of time and making direct skin-to-skin contact, may be much riskier.

Lower danger

By putting on clothes in a store or by touching nonporous objects like door knobs and countertops, people are unlikely to get the virus.

Furthermore, several behaviors that people learned to avoid during Covid-19 spikes presumably pose less of a danger for the spread of monkeypox.

For instance, it is doubtful that riding the bus, metro, or another kind of public transportation, going to work, or attending school will expose one to monkeypox.

However, authorities warn that as more information on monkeypox is gathered, this advice could change.

If the virus is allowed to continue growing unchecked, it may ultimately infect a larger population, increasing the risk of illness for everyone.

Related article: New Zealand Records First Monkeypox Case, Reveals Increasing Threat as Virus Enters New Continent
The foreseeable end of the cycle of oil, gas, and coal, which has also been generating a significant increase in greenhouse gases, is what causes the current energy crisis.

The electricity demand is rising as Southern Africa's economy expands quickly.

To effectively meet this demand, it will be necessary to strike a balance among social, economic, geographic, technological, and environmental factors.

Energy Crisis

Many scientists have spoken out in recent years to warn people regarding climate change, which is primarily brought on by the burning of coal and oil for energy, as per Solar Impulse.

Due to rising global energy demand, there will be a shortage of fossil fuels in the upcoming decades.

The availability of reserves is a significant source of concern as a result.

Energy waste refers to the wastage of energy sources, particularly fuels and electricity, and is primarily caused by the unneeded use of energy resources.

Because of this, reducing waste is a huge source of power savings and calls for both individual and group efforts.

Massive reliance on conventional energy sources leads to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), which worsens global warming and threatens biodiversity.

As a result, the environmental crisis and the energy crisis are closely related.

Also Read: Learn More About South Africa's First Solar-Powered 'Green Airport'

Africa demanding electricity

An international team led by researchers from UC Santa Barbara examined the area's resources and power grid.

With the help of this information, they created an energy portfolio that, to the best of their ability, will meet Southern Africa's energy needs in 2040, as per ScienceDaily.

They discovered that wind and solar energy are the most affordable options available there.

Furthermore, the plan suggested by their model effectively freezes greenhouse gas emissions at 2020 levels while tripling the amount of electricity the grid can generate.

Currently, California uses about the same amount of energy as Southern Africa's 315 million residents, or 275 terawatt hours.

However, according to co-lead and corresponding author Ranjit Deshmukh, an assistant professor in the UCSB Environmental Studies Program, Southern Africa's electricity demand is predicted to double by 2040.

The least expensive option for its consumers and can satisfy this demand without raising the region's electricity sector carbon emissions is to establish the region's excellent wind, solar, and natural gas resources.

The team used a variety of models that take into account a variety of structural, climatic, and economic factors to arrive at these conclusions.

In 2020, Deshmukh and co-author Grace Wu, who is a student at UC Santa Barbara, created MapRE, one of the tools.

AFM Kamal Chowdhury, the study's primary author, is a postdoctoral researcher in Deshmukh's lab who developed the hydropower model known as VIC-Res-Southern-Africa.

This model calculates the hydroelectric dams' projected and actual monthly electricity output.

The authors used an electricity planning model called GridPath, created by Deshmukh and co-author Ana Mileva, to feed data from MapRE and VIC-Res as well as current and planned generation and transmission capacity.

The recommended energy portfolio was produced by this model.

The datasets and the model would both be freely accessible and open source.

The model specifically predicted that coal power would not be cost-effective compared to these sources of renewable energy.

According to co-author Kudakwashe Ndhlukula, executive director of the Southern African Development Community Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE), the fleet of coal power plants currently in use is outdated and expensive to run.

The operation of these power plants would have been unprofitable even without greater regional integration

The region's coal-fired power plants might even be shut down earlier with funding from international climate funds like the Green Climate Fund, the authors noted.

Related Article: Morocco to Build One of the World's Largest Solar Plants With EU Fund
Coal energy is created when fossil fuel is burned to create heat and steam, both of which are used to turn turbine generators into electrical generators.

Coal energy, together with the steam engine, contributed to and supported the Industrial Revolution.

Panelists speaking about the topic at PIVOT2022, an online geothermal conference, a recent week-long geothermal conference, were enthusiastic about that potential, citing the number of technological solutions that are coming online and the growing interest in the heat beneath our feet.

As the world moves away from fossil fuels in the fight against climate change, they were speaking about exactly that.

Experts high hopes for clean geothermal energy

The Senior Vice President at the international energy research and consulting company is Neeraj Nandurdikar.

He explained the potential opportunity at the start of the meeting, mentioning that there are approximately 4,200 coal plants in the world, about 1,000 of which appear to be shut down.

The majority are in China, where 84 plants are currently being developed, as per Think Geo Energy.

The US follows with about 750 plants, 200 of which are active.

The final three countries in the top five with the most coal plants are Germany, India, and Indonesia.

According to him, many US plants are inactive or closed due to a lack of economic motivation.

According to Kevin Bonebrake, CFO for Quaise Energy, coal plant conversions and new geothermal operational processes could also make use of the oil and gas industry's existing workforce and completely refocus it on this goal.

Bonebrake pointed out that Carlos Araque, co-founder and CEO of Quaise, and a large percentage of the company's staff have experience in the oil and gas industry.

According to Ken Wisian, a geothermal geophysicist and Bureau of Economic Geology assistant director, the hotter the region, the better it is for converting coal to geothermal energy.

That entails putting a priority on coal plants that are near to the superhot rock which is found in regions such as the Western US, Iceland, and around volcanoes and is situated relatively close to the Earth's surface.

Wisian praised the numerous advancements in geothermal technology that were discussed at the conference, but he emphasized that geology must be considered.

Also Read: Worldwide Usage Of Coal-Fired Electricity Set To Drop This Year

Benefits of coal energy and its downside

When compared to other renewable and non-renewable energy sources, coal energy has advantages.

A coal-burning power plant can be built with less capital outlay and is plentiful and reasonably priced, as per Encyclopedia.

The world's coal reserves, which can be found in more than 70 nations, are thought to be close to 1 trillion tons.

Oil and gas are not expected to outlive the reserves. Long-term stable prices result from this.

Construction costs for coal-powered energy facilities are lower, and they can run continuously for seven days a week. Coal plants can produce energy continuously because they are not reliant on the sun or the wind.

As a result, coal energy is going to appeal less in developed countries as a method of generating plentiful, affordable energy for their expanding economies.

The usage of coal as a source of energy has significantly increased due to all these factors.

Although coal has enormous potential as a source of energy, it does have a number of disadvantages.

The main drawback of coal is the harm it causes to the environment.

Energy plants that burn coal are a major source of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Related Article: Geothermal 'Freak Zone' Found Below Greenland Following Heat Flow Mapping
The Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion (TMX) development at Bridal Falls near Chilliwack threatens endangered animals and delicate wetlands.

Three environmental organizations are asking the Canada Energy Regulator (CER) to take preventive measures.

Petition to Stop the Habitat Destruction Near the Chilliwack Pipeline Site

On August 6, The Pipe Up Network and others sent a notice of motion to the CER for what they claim is illegal habitat degradation, as per Mission City Record.

Environmentalists contend that the CER should be implementing the expansion's requirements, but over the previous ten years, several Auditor General reports have revealed failures of enforcement by the federal regulator.

The Pipe Up Network's Lynn Perrin stated in a release that this small region is significant for animals and humans, and its worth is even more crucial now that the neighboring fields were clear-cut.

The marsh region between Chilliwack and Popkum is also home to nesting birds and amphibians, including the endangered coastal giant salamander.

Last month, a TMX representative emphasized that the corporation does mitigating steps to safeguard other species including nesting birds.

Progress was informed by a TMX representative that mitigation procedures include the use of non-intrusive nest sweeps and the development of species-specific buffer zones around active nests to guarantee our construction activities have the least impact on nesting birds feasible.

When conducting surveys, a protective buffer is installed if nesting activity is discovered.

Last month, Protect the Planet started a petition asking B.C. Minister Katrine Conroy to revoke Trans Mountain's permission to recover threatened coastal giant salamanders in the area-a measure that should only be taken as a last option.

Their petition already has more than 600 signatures.

The area between South Popkum Road and the Bridal Falls Forest Service Road was scheduled to be cleared by TMX contractors, but a nearby neighbor was able to stop the work and subsequently called the Community Nest Finding Network (CNFN) for more aid.

A biologist was called in to confirm the existence of active bird nests after CNFN discovered and documented them.

This was done until the baby birds fledged.

Also Read: Trans Mountain Tree Cutting Can Resume as Stop-Work Order On Pipeline Route Lifts

Close Call of Habitat Destruction in Chilliwack Area

The Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project (TMX) has finally begun in the Chilliwack region, but at one spot close to Bridal Falls, it has been put on hold because of a pair of woodpeckers that are engaged in mating behavior, as per The Progress.

Red-breasted sapsuckers, American robins, and Anna's hummingbirds can all temporarily halt the operation of heavy equipment used by TMX personnel to clear the area next to the existing pipeline path, including excavators, feller bunchers, and unlimbers.

A person has discovered nests every time the Community Nest Finding Network has been on site before (TMX personnel) had chopped trees.

Trans Mountain should not be permitted to cut down trees during prime nesting season because they are having trouble discovering the nests.

That person is Sara Ross from the Community Nest Finding Network (CNFN), a group that has spent the majority of its time blocking TMX operations by searching for nests in the Burnaby area since 2021.

It all began when activists in trees found Anna's hummingbird eggs, which led to construction halts in the Brunette River Conservation Area for more than three months last summer.

Red-breasted sapsucker nests in trees that were active were most recently discovered close to Bridal Falls.

Ross claimed that the nest was easy to spot from the ground, and even though she claimed that they were the ones who alerted TMX to the nest after the company's certified environmental professional had found nothing, the company remained silent when asked about the extent of its wildlife surveying along the pipeline route.

A TMX representative stated via email that bird nests were located and adequate buffers were built during these surveys near Bridal Falls.

Construction work is put on hold until nestlings have flown the nest or until it has been determined that the nest is no longer active.

The business requires that precautions be taken to safeguard nesting birds, such as the red-breasted sapsucker nest found close to Bridal Falls.

The TMX spokeswoman stated that mitigation measures will be used to ensure that construction activities have the least possible effect on breeding birds, including the use of non-intrusive nest sweeps and the creation of species-specific buffer zones around active nests.

When conducting surveys, a protective buffer is installed if nesting activity is discovered.

Related Article: Detailed Pipeline Route Through Chilliwack Approved by a Federal Regulator
Reporter

Debra Pressey is a reporter covering health care at The News-Gazette. Her email is dpressey@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@DLPressey).
Two groups of researchers at the University of Oklahoma have each received nearly $1 million grants from the National Science Foundation as part of its Predictive Intelligence for Pandemic Prevention initiative, which focuses on fundamental research and capabilities needed to tackle grand challenges in infectious disease pandemics through prediction and prevention.

To date, researchers from 20 institutions nationwide were selected to receive an NSF PIPP Award. OU is the only university to receive two grants to the same institution.

The next pandemic isn't a question of 'if,' but 'when. Research at the University of Oklahoma is going to help society be better prepared and responsive to future health challenges." Tomas Diaz de la Rubia, OU Vice President for Research and Partnerships

Next-generation surveillance

David Ebert, Ph.D., professor of computer science and electrical and computer engineering in the Gallogly College of Engineering, is the principal investigator on one of the projects, which explores new ways of sharing, integrating and analyzing data using new and traditional data sources. Ebert is also the director of the Data Institute for Societal Challenges at OU, which applies OU expertise in data science, artificial intelligence, machine learning and data-enabled research to solving societal challenges.

While emerging pathogens can circulate among wild or domestic animals before crossing over to humans, the delayed response to the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for new early detection methods, more effective data management, and integration and information sharing between officials in both public and animal health.

Ebert's team, composed of experts in data science, computer engineering, public health, veterinary sciences, microbiology and other areas, will look to examine data from multiple sources, such as veterinarians, agriculture, wastewater, health departments, and outpatient and inpatient clinics, to potentially build algorithms to detect the spread of signals from one source to another. The team will develop a comprehensive animal and public health surveillance, planning and response roadmap that can be tailored to the unique needs of communities.

"Integrating and developing new sources of data with existing data sources combined with new tools for detection, localization and response planning using a One Health approach could enable local and state public health partners to respond more quickly and effectively to reduce illness and death," Ebert said. "This planning grant will develop proof-of-concept techniques and systems in partnership with local, state and regional public health officials and create a multistate partner network and design for a center to prevent the next pandemic."

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes One Health as an approach that bridges the interconnections between people, animals, plants and their shared environment to achieve optimal health outcomes.

Co-principal investigators on the project include Michael Wimberly, Ph.D., professor in the College of Atmospheric and Geographic Sciences; Jason Vogel, Ph.D., director of the Oklahoma Water Survey and professor in the Gallogly College of Engineering School of Civil Engineering and Environmental Science; Thirumalai Venkatesan, director of the Center for Quantum Research and Technology in the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences; and Aaron Wendelboe, Ph.D., professor in the Hudson College of Public Health at the OU Health Sciences Center.

Predicting and preventing the next avian influenza pandemic

Several countries have experienced deadly outbreaks of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, that have resulted in the loss of billions of poultry, thousands of wild waterfowl and hundreds of humans. Researchers at the University of Oklahoma are taking a unique approach to predicting and preventing the next avian influenza pandemic.

Xiangming Xiao, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Microbiology and Plant Biology and director of the Center for Earth Observation and Modeling in the Dodge Family College of Arts and Sciences, is leading a project to assemble a multi-institutional team that will explore pathways for establishing an International Center for Avian Influenza Pandemic Prediction and Prevention.

The goal of the project is to incorporate and understand the status and major challenges of data, models and decision support tools for preventing pandemics. Researchers hope to identify future possible research and pathways that will help to strengthen and improve the capability and capacity to predict and prevent avian influenza pandemics.

"This grant is a milestone in our long-term effort for interdisciplinary and convergent research in the areas of One Health (human-animal-environment health) and big data science," Xiao said. "This is an international project with geographical coverage from North America, Europe and Asia; thus, it will enable OU faculty and students to develop greater ability, capability, capacity and leaderships in prediction and prevention of global avian influenza pandemic."

Other researchers on Xiao's project include co-principal investigators A. Townsend Peterson, Ph.D., professor at the University of Kansas; Diann Prosser, Ph.D., research wildlife ecologist for the U.S. Geological Survey; and Richard Webby, Ph.D., director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Studies on the Ecology of Influenza in Animals and Birds with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Wayne Marcus Getz, professor at the University of California, Berkeley, is also assisting on the project.

The National Science Foundation grant for Ebert's research is set to end Jan. 31, 2024, while Xiao's grant will end Dec. 31, 2023.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University and the University of Lisbon have jointly identified and synthesized a small molecule that could be a more accessible and effective alternative to an antibody that is successfully used to treat a range of cancers. Behind the groundbreaking development is an international team of researchers led by Prof. Ronit Sachi-Fainaro, Head of the Center for Cancer Biology Research and Head of the Laboratory for Cancer Research and Nanomedicine at the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, and Prof. Helena Florindo and Prof. Rita Guedes from the Research Institute for Medicines at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lisbon. The results of the study were published in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer.

In 2018, the Nobel Prize in Medicine was awarded to James Allison and Tasuku Honjo for their contribution to the study of immunotherapy, the treatment of cancer through activation of the immune system. Honjo discovered that immune cells called T cells express the protein PD-1 that disables the T-cells' own activity when it binds to the protein PD-L1 expressed in cancer cells. In fact, the interaction between PD-1 and PD-L1 allows cancer cells to paralyze the T cells, preventing them from attacking the cancer cells. Honjo developed antibodies that neutralize either PD-1 or PD-L1, thereby releasing the T cells to fight cancer effectively." Prof. Satchi-Fainaro, a 2020 Kadar Family Award recipient

The antibodies against PD-1/PD-L1 proteins are already approved for clinical use and are considered the great promise in the fight against cancer. This immunotherapy can significantly improve patient outcome, without the severe side effects that accompany treatments such as chemotherapy. But the antibodies are expensive to produce, hence not available to all patients. Moreover, the treatment does not affect all parts of the solid tumors because the antibodies are too large to penetrate and reach less accessible and less exposed areas of the tumor. Now, researchers at Tel Aviv University and the University of Lisbon have used bioinformatic and data analysis tools to find a smaller, smarter alternative to these antibodies.

"Post-doctoral researcher Dr. Rita Acurcio started with thousands of molecular structures, and by using computer-aided drug design (CADD) models and databases, we narrowed down the list of candidates until we reached the best structure," says Prof. Satchi-Fainaro. "In the second stage, we confirmed that the small molecule controls tumor growth as effectively as the antibodies  it inhibits PD-L1 in animals engineered to have human T cells. In other words, we have developed a molecule that can inhibit PD-1/PD-L1 binding and remind the immune system that it needs to attack the cancer. Moreover, the new molecule has some major advantages over the antibody treatment. First of all, the cost: since the antibody is a biological rather than a synthetic molecule, it requires a complex infrastructure and considerable funds to produce, costing about $200,000 per year per patient. In contrast, we have already synthesized the small molecule with simple equipment, in a short time and at a fraction of the cost. Another advantage of the small molecule is that patients will probably be able to take it at home, orally, without the need for IV administration in the hospital."

In addition to accessibility considerations, our experiments show that the small molecule improves the activation of immune cells inside the solid tumor mass. "The surface area of a solid tumor is heterogeneous," explains Prof. Satchi-Fainaro. "If there are fewer blood vessels in a particular area of the tumor, the antibody will not be able to get inside. The small molecule, on the other hand, diffuses, and is therefore not entirely dependent on the tumor's blood vessels or on its hyperpermeability. I believe that in the future, the small molecule will be commercially available and will make immunotherapy affordable for cancer patients."

This work was supported by Fundacao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia, Ministerio da Ciencia, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior (FCT-MCTES), by The Israeli Ministry of Health under the frame of EuroNanoMed-II, "La Caixa" Foundation, Liga Portuguesa Contra o Cancro, the ERC, The Israel Science Foundation, The Melanoma Research Alliance, the Israel Cancer Research Fund (ICRF) Professorship award and the Morris Kahn Foundation.
The protocol used to screen and detect lung cancer in the NELSON Trial is more sensitive than the protocol used in the National Lung Cancer Screening Trial, particularly for early-stage cancers, according to research reported today at the IASLC World Conference on Lung Cancer 2022 in Vienna.

The Dutch-Belgian lung cancer screening trial (Nederlands-Leuvens Longkanker Screenings Onderzoek [NELSON]) demonstrated a reduction in lung cancer mortality of 24% for screening with low-dose computed tomography (CT), compared to the 20% found in the National Lung Screening Trial.

The NELSON and NLST differed in study population and trial design. Specifically, in contrast to the NLST, the NELSON trial employed a nodule management protocol that incorporated nodule volume and quantified volume growth as opposed to nodule diameter.

We evaluated how the difference in nodule management protocols affected the CT sensitivity across stage and histology in the trials." Koen de Nijs, Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam, the Netherlands

In cancer screening, sensitivity is the ability of a screening method to detect cancer while it is still in the pre-clinical phase.

Mr. De Nijs and colleagues from the NELSON consortium employed the MISCAN-Lung model, previously used to evaluate the results of the NLST, to evaluate the outcomes of the NELSON trial. The model was used to reproduce lung cancer incidence and mortality by method of detection (clinical or screen-detected), sex, histology and stage.

"We evaluated the potential differences in CT sensitivity by stage and histology, after accounting for the characteristics of the study population, trial design and lung cancer epidemiology in each trial," he reported. For both trials, de Nijs considered a screening result a true positive when lung cancer was detected through the screening CT and related follow-up procedures.

Furthermore, previous research has shown that the protocol used in NELSON also had improved specificity. Nodule management protocols based on volumetry are therefore likely to increase the benefits of lung cancer screening, while reducing unnecessary follow-up procedures.

Mr. de Nijs found that the sensitivity in NELSON was estimated to be higher across all stages compared with the NLST. In particular, CT sensitivity was considerably higher for early-stage adenocarcinoma (for stage 1A, 73% in NELSON over 57% in the NLST, for stage 1B, 90% in NELSON vs 64% in the NLST) and stage 2 squamous cell carcinoma (75% in NELSON over 39% in the NLST).

"Model-based comparison of the NELSON and NLST suggests that the differences in screening effectiveness may be explained by differences in the nodule management protocols," said Mr. de Nijs. "The protocol used in NELSON was more sensitive than the protocol used in the NLST, particularly for early-stage cancers. Furthermore, the protocol used in NELSON also had improved specificity."

Mr. de Nijs reported that nodule management protocols based on volumetry are likely to increase the benefits of lung cancer screening, while reducing unnecessary follow-up procedures.
A study presented today at the IASLC World Conference on Lung Cancer 2022 in Vienna disclosed the clinical-relevant intertumoral heterogeneity of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) driven by MET exon 14 skipping.

MET exon 14 skipping, as a rare driver for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), can be successfully targeted by MET specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) like savolitinib, tepotinib, and capmatinib. Recent clinical trials of MET selective TKIs displayed encouraging clinical efficacy but nearly half of NSCLC patients with MET exon 14 skipping did not benefit from MET-TKI treatment, which indicated biological heterogeneity in NSCLCs driven by METex14 skipping.

To examine this further, Dr. Yuchen Han, Shanghai Chest Hospital, China, aimed to disclose the intertumoral heterogeneity of METex14 skipping positive NSCLCs at the functional level.

To accomplish this, Dr. Han and her colleagues examined 126 formalin fixed, paraffin embedded specimens from NSCLC patients with METex14 skipping from the Department of Pathology at Shanghai Chest Hospital from April 2017 to December 2020. All samples were subjected to targeted RNA sequencing using a panel consisting of 2660 onco-immunology genes. Functional enrichment of each sample was evaluated by single sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) and pathway-level unsupervised clustering was conducted to identify molecular subtypes in METex14 skipping positive patients. Subtype-specific pathways, tumor microenvironment, and clinic-pathological features were further analyzed.

Four molecular subtypes were established, including subtype A (33.3%), subtype B (15.1%), subtype C (14.3%), and subtype D (37.3%).

Subtype A was significantly associated with more aggressive clinical characteristics (more advanced stage, larger tumor size, and higher percentage of invasive morphology) and numerically shorter disease-free survival (P=0.057). Subtype A was characterized as activation of MET signaling and immune-suppressive microenvironment, such as up-regulation of PTK2, cell motility, glycolysis, hypoxia, and epithelial and mesenchymal transition (EMT), higher infiltration of Treg cells.

Subtype B was associated with Fatty acid metabolism as well as response to oxidative stress.

Subtype C was categorized as immune activation phenotype which also displayed higher infiltration of Tcells and macrophages as well as a higher level of MHC II signatures.

Subtype D displayed "bypass" activation of oncogenic pathways like WNT, MAPK, NOTCH, and ERBB signaling pathways.
The battle was just beginning for Le Roy Torres and his wife, Rosie, when the Army captain returned to Texas in 2008, already starting to suffer from the toxic substances he'd inhaled from the 10-acre burn pit at Camp Anaconda in Balad, Iraq.

Along the way, Le Roy would lose the job he loved as a Texas state trooper and take his fight all the way to a Supreme Court victory. He would be rushed to the emergency room hundreds of times, be denied health benefits by the Department of Veterans Affairs for years, attempt suicide, and seek experimental cures for the damage done to his lungs and brain.

Amid all that, Le Roy and Rosie founded an organization to help others and push Congress to fix the laws that allowed the suffering of veterans to go on, and ultimately enlist people like comedian and activist Jon Stewart, who helped them win a dramatic showdown in the Senate last week.

Their struggle will never really be over. But the Torreses campaign to make sure no other veterans experience what they had to ends Aug. 10, when they join President Joe Biden as he signs a law to guarantee that 3.5 million American warriors exposed to similar hazards can get care.

I mean, to think that 13 years ago we were walking the halls [of Congress]  its really emotional, Rosie said recently, halting to collect herself and wipe back tears, because I think of all the people that died along the way.

The bill provides a new entitlement program for veterans who served in a combat zone in the past 32 years. If they are diagnosed with any of 23 conditions identified in the legislation  ranging from specific cancers to breathing ailments  they would be deemed automatically eligible for health coverage. The Congressional Budget Office estimated the new benefits would cost $280 billion over the next 10 years.

Most veterans  nearly 80%  who start experiencing symptoms after leaving the service get denied whats known as a service connection when they seek help from the VA. The system has been designed to disbelieve them, the veterans complain. They must prove their breathing problems or cancers came from the toxic trash smoke they breathed overseas, which is extremely difficult.

When Le Roy got home from the Balad Air Base  the second-largest U.S. post in Iraq and where the military incinerated tons of debris daily, including plastic, ammunition, and medical waste  he was already sick. He was rushed to the hospital a few weeks later with a severe respiratory infection.

He had expected to keep working as a state trooper, but by 2010 it was clear he couldn't perform all the duties because of his illness. When he asked for a different job with the Texas Department of Public Safety, he was denied. He was told he had to resign if he wanted to apply for medical retirement. The retirement request was then rejected. So he sued and eventually took the case to the Supreme Court, which in June ruled that states were not immune from such lawsuits by service members.

In those early years, the military and VA doctors couldnt say what caused his breathing problems and splitting headaches. As with other victims of toxic exposure, diagnoses proved to be difficult. Some doctors suggested the problems werent real  a pronouncement often encountered by other vets whose claims are denied.

Like so many others, Rosie turned to the internet for information she couldn't get from the VA, where she had worked for 23 years. She discovered a Facebook group that she would use as the basis for a new advocacy group, Burn Pits 360.

Le Roy was ultimately diagnosed with constrictive bronchiolitis, fibrosis of the lungs, and toxic encephalopathy. He eventually got his benefits in early 2013. By then, the family was deep in debt.

For years he lived with the reality that the military he had served for 23 years refused to answer his needs, and the police force he loved didn't seem to care.

Its something that we have now learned is known as moral injury and compound loss, Rosie said.

As a man, he began to wonder how he could provide for his family, if he was any use to anyone, she added. So then that led to him attempting to take his life.

It also led the couple and parents of three to beseech Congress to fix the problems. They started walking the halls in the Capitol. Success there was not any easier.

We came to Capitol Hill and just handed out information we had printed about burn pit exposure, Le Roy said at his last visit to the Hill in June, an oxygen tube strung under his nose.

There were a lot of doors shut in our face, Rosie said.

While making little progress in Congress, they built Burn Pits 360 into an advocacy group and a clearinghouse to help other veterans similarly frustrated by a system that seemed to be failing them.

The breakthrough for Rosie began when she saw Stewart and 9/11 survivors' advocate John Feal winning a similar battle to make Congress fully fund health and compensation programs for responders of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks. She recalls reading up on the toxic substances in the dust and smoke that spewed from the collapsed twin towers and discovering they were remarkably similar to the poisons inhaled by troops near the waste fires that were also set ablaze with jet fuel.

She called Feal. Feal called Stewart, and by February 2019 the four of them were meeting on Capitol Hill with lawmakers, including Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), one of the authors of the 9/11 legislation.

The key, they decided in those first meetings, was to remove the obstacles for the most common illnesses and eliminate the burden of proof on ill former soldiers. Gillibrands office wrote that bill, along with Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.), who championed it in the House.

Ultimately, that bill became the heart of the measure that passed, known as the PACT Act and named for a soldier who died from cancer linked to his service.

Our bill was the first federal presumption for burn pits coverage ever. And that was all because of Rosie and Le Roy, said Gillibrand.

But just as with the 9/11 legislation, many in Congress weren't that interested.

Its about money, and nobody likes to spend money," Gillibrand said. Congress never wants to accept the fact that treating these veterans and addressing their health care is the cost of war.

Weeks ago, the bill appeared ready to glide through. It passed both the House and Senate but needed another vote to fix a technical legislative issue. Then on July 27, Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), who opposed the measure, unexpectedly persuaded 25 of his Republican colleagues who had supported the bill to vote against it, claiming that because the bill made the spending mandatory  not subject to the annual whims of Congress  Democrats would spend $400 billion elsewhere in the budget. Democrats countered that the money Toomey cited is already being spent and, regardless of how it's categorized, it's still up to Congress to appropriate it.

Rosie and veterans who had come to the Capitol that day to celebrate instead had to dig in one more time, with Stewart bringing the high-wattage attention that led the Republicans to reconsider. On Aug. 2, most Republicans decided to agree with the Democrats, and the bill passed 86 to 11.

Rosie said it never would have happened without Feal and Stewart. Stewart said it was all about Rosie, bringing together veterans in a way that Congress couldnt ignore.

Shes the reason Im doing it, her and Le Roy, Stewart said, standing outside the Capitol with Rosie the day before the vote.

Stewart, the Torreses, and untold other veterans tempered their joy with the warning that it will be a hard journey making the new program work with a VA that already has a massive backlog. The legislation has provisions to create facilities and bring in private doctors, but some vets remain dubious.

Iraq War veteran Brian Alvarado of Long Beach, California, was diagnosed with neck and throat cancer soon after returning from Iraq in 2006. He had been assigned to patrol one of the many burn pits. He eats and breathes through tubes and struggles to keep weight on. Radiation and a tracheostomy have left his voice almost inaudible.

"You can pass laws, but it all boils down to the VA. How are they going to implement the changes? The claims, the compensation, the treatment," he asked in June. "And how long will it take?"

For the time being, though, Rosie said that even more than a visit to the White House, she was looking forward to going back to Texas and her family.

"You know, I lost 13 years away from my children, with trips to the hospital, coming to D.C.," she said. It means I can go home."

Le Roy and Rosie can also reflect that as painful as this path has been, 3.5 million veterans are guaranteed a backstop because of this law, and thousands of veterans and active-duty service members who work for state and local governments now have recourse if they are fired after being injured at war.

"It is good to know that so many people will be helped," Le Roy said from his home in Robstown, Texas. "It does help."

KHN reporter Heidi de Marco contributed to this article.
In a recent study posted to the bioRxiv* preprint server, researchers evaluated the impact of double BNT162b2 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccination in recognition of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants of concern (VoCs).

Background

Studies have reported that double coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccinations generate high titers of SARS-CoV-2 S-targeted antibodies (Ab), Bmem and T lymphocytes; however, VoCs with SARS-CoV-2 S receptor-binding domain (RBD) mutations can evade humoral immune responses.

Booster doses have been reported to enhance VoC recognition by Abs; however, it is not clear whether VoC recognition is enhanced due to higher Ab titers or due to the increased capacity of Ab binding to S RBDs.

About the study

In the present study, researchers evaluated the benefit of double BNT162b2 vaccinations on SARS-CoV-2 VoC recognition.

Healthy and SARS-CoV-2- naive persons (n=30) without immunological or hematological diseases were enrolled in the study to assess their peripheral blood B-lymphocyte subsets between February and June 2021. Samples were obtained before the BNT162b2 vaccination, after three weeks of the first vaccination, and four weeks following the second vaccination.

Serum memory B lymphocytes (Bmem) counts and Ab titers were assessed using recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein RBDs of the Wuhan, Gamma, and Delta strains. Neutralizing Ab (NAb) titers were evaluated using 293T-ACE2 cells and SARS-CoV-2 pseudotyped viral assays. Further, the nature of RBD-targeted Bmem was examined based on the expression of cluster of differentiation (CD) 21, 27, and 71.

Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were performed to evaluate variant-specific S RBD antibody titers and the serum dilution needed for preventing 50% SARS-CoV-2 entry (ID50) values were ascertained. Flow cytometry (FC) was performed to evaluate Bmem counts. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) titers against SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) protein RBD and S RBD were evaluated before and post the first and second BNT162b2 vaccination.

Results

In total, 28, 30, and 30 samples were obtained pre-vaccination, after three weeks of the first dose and after four weeks of the second dose, respectively. All the participants remained SARS-CoV-2-naive throughout the study without anti-SARS-CoV-2 N antibodies. Most participants (n=22) induced NAbs after the first vaccination, and the NAb titers after the second vaccination had IC50 values >100.

Double BNT162b2 vaccination generated robust NAb responses among all study participants. Immunoglobulin G+ (IgG+) and IgM+ RBD-targeted Bmem were generated after the first vaccination, and IgG1+ Bmem counts increased after the second vaccination. Most RBD-targeted Bmem showed binding with Delta and/or Gamma VoCs, which increased significantly after the second vaccination.

The RBD-targeted Bmem compartment comprised mainly IgG1+ or IgM+ cells, and contrastingly, the total Bmem compartment comprised more IgG2+ cells and fewer IgG1+ cells compared to the RBD-targeted Bmem compartment.

After the second vaccination dose, RBD-targeted IgG1, 2 and 3-expressing Bmem populations expanded significantly, although the total Bmem lymphocyte compartment was unaltered.

The number of RBD-targeted IgG+ Bmem correlated positively with RBD-targeted serum IgG post first and second vaccinations. While two subsets of IgM+ Bmem lymphocytes (CD27+ IgM+ and CD27+ IgM+ IgD+) proportionally decreased after the second vaccination dose, the absolute cell counts were identical to those observed post the first vaccine dose. Taken together, BNT162b2 vaccinations particularly affected the antigen-targeted Bmem lymphocyte counts, and the production of IgG1-expressing Bmem lymphocytes was boosted after the second BNT162b2 vaccination.

CD27 was expressed by 95% of anti-RBD and IgG-expressing Bmem lymphocytes, the proportion of which did not differ between the initial and subsequent BNT162b2 vaccination. After the first vaccine dose, 15% of anti-RBD Bmem lymphocytes were CD21lo, the proportion of which was marginally but significantly lower (reduced to 10%) after four weeks of the second vaccination.

CD71 was expressed by 10% of anti-RBD Bmem lymphocytes after the first and second vaccination. In the total population of Bmem lymphocytes, the results after the first and second vaccination did not differ significantly, denoting the Bmem compartment stability. After four weeks of vaccination, anti-RBD Bmem lymphocytes exhibited a nature and resting Bmem lymphocyte immunophenotype.

Anti-Wuhan S RBD- IgG titers exhibited partial recognition of the Beta, Gamma and Delta VoCs with more prominent reductions for Gamma and Beta VoCs than for the Delta VoC. The second vaccine BNT162b2 dose significantly enhanced anti-Wuhan RBD antibody binding to Gamma and Beta VoCs; however, the neutralization potency of vaccine-induced NAbs against Gamma and Beta was lesser than for Delta.

Delta RBD and Gamma RBD were recognized by 50% and 70% of RBD-targeted Bmem lymphocytes after the first and second vaccinations, respectively, and the increase in VoC-recognizing Bmem counts was largely due to elevated IgG1+ Bmem counts.

Conclusion

Overall, the study findings showed that the second BNT162b2 vaccination elevated NAb titers and SARS-CoV-2 RBD-targeted Bmem counts and that double BNT162b2 vaccination was especially needed for Delta and Gamma VoC recognition. The findings indicated that the second vaccine dose improved S RBD-targeted Bmem counts and the Bmem affinity to overcome VoC mutations.

*Important notice

bioRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
In a recent study posted to the Preprints with The Lancet* server, researchers estimated the vaccine effectiveness (VE) of the primary and booster doses of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines against reinfection by Omicron BA.5 and BA.2 lineages and severe post-infection outcomes.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron sub-variant BA.5 was reclassified as a variant of concern (VOC) by the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) on May 12, 2022. Its prevalence accounted for around 37% of COVID-19 cases in Portugal in May 2022. The Portuguese National Institute of Health estimated a growth advantage of 13% per day for BA.5, which, coupled with a doubling time of about six days, would have made it the dominant lineage in Portugal.

Background

There is a conflict between the results from animal models, neutralization assays, cell cultures, and the early vaccination risk assessment comparing BA.5 with other Omicron lineages. Due to the lack of a negative control group, any study design that quantifies the relative effect of COVID-19 vaccination against Omicron reinfections among highly vaccinated populations could prove useful.

Study design

In the present study, researchers compared the VE of primary and booster vaccination between Omicron BA.5 and BA.2 lineages. They assessed how vaccination prevented breakthrough infection from Omicron lineages and estimated lineage-specific post-infection VE against COVID-19-related hospitalization and mortality.

They implemented two different approaches. In the first approach, they compared case-to-case the odds of the COVID-19 vaccine among individuals with breakthrough infection from Omicron BA.5 and BA.2. In the second approach, they followed BA.2 and BA.5 infected groups to assess lineage-specific post-infection VE (VEp) against COVID-19-related hospitalization and death. They compared VEp only between vaccinated- and unvaccinated-infected individuals to compare the risk of severe outcomes.

The study population comprised individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 from mainland Portugal between April 25 to June 10, 2022, via a positive by reverse transcriptase-polymerase-chain-reaction (RT-PCR), with positive samples subjected to S Gene Target Failure (SGTF) assessment or whole-genome sequencing (WGS).

The team considered only samples with nucleocapsid (N) and open-reading frame 1a (ORF1a) positive signals and cycle threshold (Ct) values 30 for SGTF-based classification. Based on the vaccination status, the study population comprised unvaccinated individuals and those who had received complete primary and booster vaccinations.

The researchers obtained COVID-19-related hospitalization data from Integrated Hospital Information System (SONHO) registry, which captures all information from the National Health Service (NHS) hospitals in Portugal. Likewise, the National Death Certificate Information System (SICO) issues a death certificate for each individual who dies in Portugal with COVID-19 as the primary cause of death for which the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 code U.071 according to the World Health Organization classification is used.

Further, the researchers performed data extraction and deterministic linkage of electronic health records with laboratory data on July 12, 2022. Also, they collected age, sex, residence, and the week of swab collection via the national surveillance system SINAVE. Furthermore, the researchers used a logistic regression model adjusted for sex, age group, region of residence, and week of swab collection to estimate the odds of vaccination.

An odds ratio (OR) estimate greater than one and one suggested that VE was lower for BA.5 lineage than BA.2 and the same for both Omicron lineages, respectively. They interpreted OR for the previous infection similarly. Lastly, the team used penalized logistic regression to reduce the bias caused by hospitalization or deaths for VEp estimates against severe outcomes in BA.5 and BA.2 cases. The OR for the lineage and vaccination status interaction measured the ratio between relative VE to prevent severe outcomes among those infected with BA.5 compared with BA.2.

Study findings

Between April 25 and June 10, 2022, there were 15,396 BA.2 cases and 12,306 BA.5 cases. Compared to BA.2 cases, BA.5 cases were slightly younger and resided frequently in Alentejo and Centro regions. Additionally, the proportion of cases with a previous COVID-19 infection was higher in BA.5 than BA.2 cases (10% vs. 5.6%). Regarding vaccination status, both groups had 4 to 5% non-vaccinated cases, but BA.5 had a higher proportion of individuals who had received primary vaccination series (20.6% vs. 15.8%), and BA.2 had more individuals who had received a booster dose (80.1% vs. 74.7%). Moreover, there were 106 COVID-19 hospitalizations and 42 deaths.

The odds of complete primary vaccination or booster dose (aOR=1.07 vs. 0.96) among the BA.5 cases were similar to the BA.2 cases, suggesting no relevant differences in VE against infection for the BA.5 lineage compared to BA.2. The authors noted higher odds of the previous infection in BA.5 cases compared with BA.2 (aOR=1.44). Combining primary vaccination and prior infection status, the estimated aOR of BA.5 was 1.70 times higher than for a BA.2 reinfection. For booster vaccination, a higher reduction in risk of hospitalization was observed either for BA.2 or BA.5, representing post-infection VE of 93% and 77%, respectively.

The interaction term that allows comparison between BA.5/BA.2 lineage VE was 3.36, suggesting reduced post-infection protection induced by booster dose against hospitalization for BA.5 compared to BA.2. The ratio of post-infection complete primary VE in BA.5 vs. BA.2 cases was 2.06 with a wide confidence interval (CI). As for booster dose, the aOR for death suggested higher risk reduction than unvaccinated for BA.2 (VEp=94%) than for BA.5 (VEp=88%), with overlapping CIs. For the death outcome, the interaction term that allowed for comparison of post-infection VE between BA.5/BA.2 lineages was 0.43 for complete vaccination and 1.98 booster dose, both with very imprecise CIs.

Conclusions

Overall, the VE against BA.5 and BA.2 infection was similar. However, the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.5 lineage was associated with higher odds of the previous infection when compared to BA.2, suggesting a reduction in the protection conferred by the prior infection against BA.5 compared to BA.2. Moreover, against hospitalization outcomes, VE was lower post-BA.5 infection booster dose than post-BA.2 infection booster dose. In addition, among BA.5 infected patients, the protective effect of the first booster on reducing the odds of hospitalization outcome was higher than the primary vaccination (VEp=77% vs. 22%). Regarding death outcome, the authors estimated high post-infection VE of the booster dose for both BA.5 and BA.2 cases.

To summarize, vaccines currently used in Portugal were less effective in reducing the risk of severe outcomes for BA.5 than BA.2. The observed differences in primary vaccination and booster dose post-infection VE against severe outcomes observed for BA.5 and BA.2 lineages highlighted the significance of higher vaccination coverage in preventing severe COVID-19.

*Important notice

Preprints with The Lancet publish preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) evaluated the use of tecovirimat for monkeypox treatment during the current outbreak.

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) impacted some communities disproportionately in 1988 as it expanded quickly worldwide, especially among bisexual, gay, and other males who had sex with men. The world is currently dealing with a startlingly identical predicament 34 years later. An extraordinary monkeypox outbreak is currently overwhelmingly impacting males who have sex with men in several nations where the illness is not endemic, such as the United States (U.S.).

Monkeypox is not as fatal as HIV. Nonetheless, it can result in superinfections of soft tissues, ocular involvement, and insufferable anogenital lesions.

Tecovirimat, a drug currently available for clinical use within an expanded-access guideline, might theoretically quicken the resolution of monkeypox disease and improve outcomes. Nevertheless, its efficacy and safety in humans are unknown. Thus, the management of compassionate access to tecovirimat remains a problem.

The same virus genus causes monkeypox and smallpox. Hence, it is critical to comprehend the rationale behind the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of tecovirimat in smallpox treatment and the knowledge gaps that still exist. Subsequently, this will help better understand the part tecovirimat may perform in the monkeypox outbreak.

About the study

In the present work, the researchers analyzed the previous, current, and potential future considerations of tecovirimat therapy for monkeypox based on its use in smallpox.

Tecovirimat in smallpox

The authors mentioned that the antiviral medicine tecovirimat was authorized for smallpox therapy under the Animal Rule. This approach enables the approval of medications for life-threatening ailments when it is impractical to perform field assessments to evaluate the potency of a biological product or drug in humans, as well as when it is not ethical to undertake efficacy investigations in humans.

Animal model studies with associated orthopoxviruses, specifically rabbitpox-infected rabbits and monkeypox-infected nonhuman primates, were used to determine the effectiveness of tecovirimat for smallpox treatment. Subsequently, the medication was approved. In these investigations, tecovirimat-treated animals had significantly greater survival rates than placebo-treated animals.

Safety among humans was estimated by monitoring adverse responses across healthy volunteers treated with tecovirimat. For establishing the optimal tecovirimat dose for smallpox treatment in humans, the studies compared the drug plasma levels among healthy subjects with those in animal models at doses proven to be fully effective against rabbitpox and monkeypox. The results of studies on healthy individuals and animals served as the foundation for the recommended length of tecovirimat therapy for humans during smallpox.

Tecovirimat in monkeypox

Monkeypox disease, unlike smallpox, is still prevalent in some regions of the world (mainly in Central and West Africa), and investigators were able to devise clinical studies that are both practical and ethical. Existing case reports illustrate tecovirimat usage for treating people infected with monkeypox and similar non-variola orthopoxviruses. Yet, there is not enough evidence to prove its effectiveness.

While animal research can be convincing, human efficacy in later clinical trials was not always correlated precisely with efficacy seen in animals. The team noted that people with monkeypox disease could provide safety data for tecovirimat instead of only healthy participants. Therefore, research on monkeypox in humans is both necessary and feasible.

To achieve this goal, before the current monkeypox outbreak, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH) had begun preparing for a randomized, controlled trial (RCT) to assess the safety and effectiveness of tecovirimat in monkeypox therapy. The present global outbreak, however, encompasses a distinct monkeypox viral clade than that which typically infects people in the DRC. Moreover, some clinical manifestations of the current monkeypox outbreak and the communities affected at this time vary from those in nations where monkeypox is an endemic disease.

Hence, the NIH is presently developing a U.S.-centered RCT to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of tecovirimat for monkeypox treatment. The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) Clinical Trials Group will conduct this trial. The researchers expect these studies will offer the evidence required for clinical and regulatory decision-making in the U.S.

Conclusions

Overall, the team agrees that monkeypox can result in severe illness, and tecovirimat was effective against monkeypox in animal models and has a tolerable safety profile across healthy individuals. The FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have collaborated to speed the expanded-access approach by minimizing paperwork and data collecting while RCTs were developing. Furthermore, the authors stated that they keep refining these mechanisms based on feedback from healthcare professionals.

Simultaneously, researchers believe it is essential to carry out RCTs in the U.S. to establish whether tecovirimat is an effective and safe monkeypox treatment, particularly in light of the disease's clinical manifestation during the present outbreak. Similar to HIV antiretrovirals in the 1980s, without information from RCTs, it will be challenging to determine if tecovirimat will be beneficial, harmful, or have no impact on monkeypox patients. The authors mentioned that the FDA, NIH, and CDC continue to collaborate to make tecovirimat available for compassionate use while adequately assessing its efficacy and safety in RCTs.
In partnership with BGI Genomics from China, Serbia's first genome sequencing center, opened in December 2021, is monitoring potential virus mutations to facilitate more effective COVID-19 control and accelerating access to genomics to enhance health outcomes.

The Serbian Genome Sequencing and Bio-informatics Center, located within the Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering (IMGGE), seeks to develop and enhance its genomic analysis, whole exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS) capabilities. Serbia has invested in the construction and infrastructure of this Center while BGI Genomics has donated equipment such as a genomic sequencer and sent a team of five Chinese technical experts to train their Serbian counterparts over eight months.

This Center is actively following any new variants of COVID-19 which appear in Serbia, without reliance on overseas laboratories. Genomic sequencing of new variants can be completed within 48 hours, which is important for treatment of coronavirus patients and undertake more effective public health measures.

In addition to a COVID-19 sequencing line, there are three other sequencing product lines in the Center. One of these product lines focuses on prenatal diagnostics which facilitates DNA-based non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)  which involves comprehensive screening for fetal aneuploidy, a condition where the fetus has one or more extra or missing chromosomes, twin pregnancy, and pregnancies with a history of trisomy, or in-vitro fertilization.

On July 12, 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) indicated that new waves demonstrate the COVID-19 pandemic "is nowhere near over". On the same day, the WHO Science Council released its inaugural report urging countries to scale up genomic sequencing to enhance health outcomes.

The Serbian Genome Sequencing and Bio-informatics Center performs a dual role of epidemic prevention while accelerating access to genomics. In particular, the Center's operations are aligned with the four themes covered in the WHO Science Council's report:

- Advocacy: Persuade relevant stakeholders about the medical, scientific, and economic benefits of genomic technologies;

- Implementation: Expanded training of essential personnel, and the low-cost provision of instruments, materials, and computational infrastructure;

- Collaboration: Agencies, academia and industry should collaborate to use genomics to build and expand scientific capabilities;

- Ethical, legal and social issues: Effective oversight and compliance with international rules and standards, is key to promoting responsible sharing of information.

The IMGGE and BGI Genomics had earlier signed a data security agreement to commit to the protection of data and privacy in the Center's work.

This Center will be of great assistance for basic science and scientific applications particularly in medicine for diagnostics, prognostics, new drug development, as well as agriculture, to contribute to the economic development of the country." Dr Jelena Begovic, Director, Serbian Genome Sequencing and Bio-informatics Center

Dr Jelena Begovic adds, "We are working closely with stakeholders from various fields, to provide affordable, secure and ethical access to this technology. I also hope that we will continue to collaborate more deeply with BGI in the development of the BIO4 campus in Belgrade."

As Dr. Yin Ye, BGI Group CEO, mentioned at the opening ceremony of the Center, BGI will continue to support scientific research and industrial development to improve Serbia's health outcomes and well-being. Grace Xu, BGI Genomics Field Applications Support engineer and project leader, remarked, "Our Serbian colleagues have been extremely professional and asked many good questions. Through constant communication, they have made great strides in genome sequencing capabilities, and we have also learnt a lot from them as well."
Is brain fog a condition limited to humans? "Infectious disease and cognition in wild populations," a recently published paper in Trends in Ecology & Evolution, answers that question. In a review of the studies, it explores whether learning, memory, and problem-solving are impaired by infection, not just in humans, but in species across the animal kingdom.

Lead author Hamilton College Associate Professor of Biology Andrea K. Townsend had just finished a study in which she looked at how infectious disease affected the problem-solving performance of American crows. She was surprised by how few studies she could find with which to compare the effects of disease on cognition in other species. Spurred by the fact that so many individuals have contracted COVID and have experienced brain fog as well as by the goal of bringing all existing studies together for comparison, she collected and analyzed existing studies with her co-authors Kendra B. Sewall and Dana M. Hawley and (Virginia Tech) Anne S. Leonard (University of Nevada, Reno).

They found that species across the animal kingdom, from humans and rats to birds and bees, show signs of cognitive impairment with disease. The reasons for this are variable, including damage by the parasite, immune response to infection, lack of motivation of sick individuals to perform a cognitive task, malnutrition, and even alterations to the host microbiome.

I think one surprising thing for me was how little is known. We're seeing an accelerated emergence of all of these infectious diseases, and yet we know very little about how disease might affect cognition and the implications of this for wild animals as well as for humans." Andrea K. Townsend, Study Lead Author and Associate Professor, Biology, Hamilton College

Cognitive impairment linked to disease have the potential to affect entire ecological communities. For example, bees infected with some pathogens have difficulty learning the smells and colors of the most productive flowers. "This is really a bad outcome, if you are a bee, because foraging success depends on the ability to efficiently find the most productive flowers," Townsend added. This could have negative consequences for bee populations, and also for the flowers, which rely on bees for pollination.

As wild animals continue to be affected by a changing climate and disturbed environments, cognitive impairment may exacerbate the effects of disease. In disturbed environments, animals tend to be stressed, and stressed animals are more likely to get sick, which could impair their cognitive abilities. At the same time, these cognitive abilities could be especially important in these changing, stressful environments, where cognitive abilities (like flexible decision-making and innovation) could give them a behavioral buffer.

"So, here you might have a snowball effect where animals in stressed environments are more likely to get sick and their cognitive abilities are impaired. Then they are less able to deal with these stressful, changing environments because of their impaired cognitive abilities. It could increase the costs of environmental change for some wild animals," Townsend explained.

"We're also living in a period of accelerating disease emergence, which is likely to have lots of contributing factors. For example, climate change is altering the range of many insects that carry diseases. In North America, the ranges of mosquitoes, ticks, and other vectors are extending northward. This is a problem because these ranges are extending into populations of naive hosts that have never experienced the diseases that they carry before. Therefore, they don't have immunity to these infections and are likely to be highly susceptible to them," Townsend said.

Included among the future questions for which Townsend may seek answers are:

What is the potential for cognitive impairment to hasten or exacerbate population declines as new diseases emerge in wildlife populations?

How do disease pressures affect cognitive performance at the population level and how does that affect the survival and reproduction of sick individuals within those populations?

What are the long-term consequences of infection? Do infections that animals experience when they're young have long-term consequences for their cognitive performance and their fitness?

How might animals might evolve in response to disease? For example, will the perception of potential disease cues increase in populations with new disease pressures?
Neurons, the specialized cells of the nervous system, are possibly the most complicated cell type ever to have evolved. In humans, these cells are capable of processing and transmitting vast sums of information. But how such complicated cells first came about remains a long-standing debate.

Now, scientists in Japan have revealed the type of messenger -;molecules that carry signals from one cell to another -;that likely functioned in the most ancestral nervous system.

The study, published 8th August in Nature Ecology and Evolution, also revealed key similarities between the nervous system of two early-diverging animal lineages  the lineage of jellyfish and anemones (also called cnidarians) and that of comb jellies (ctenophores), reigniting an earlier hypothesis that neurons only evolved once.

Despite their supposed simplicity, very little is known about the nervous system of ancient animals. Out of the four animal lineages that branched off before the rise of more complex animals, only comb jellies (the first ancient lineage to diverge) and cnidarians (the last ancient lineage to diverge) are known to possess neurons. But the uniqueness of the comb jellies nervous system compared to that seen in cnidarians and more complex animals, and the absence of neurons in the two lineages that diverged in between, led some scientists to hypothesize that neurons evolved twice.

But Professor Watanabe, who leads the Evolutionary Neurobiology Unit at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), remained unconvinced.

Indeed, comb jellies lack a lot of neural proteins that we see in more evolved animal lineages. But for me, a lack of these proteins isn't enough evidence for two independent neuron origins." Hiroshi Watanabe, Professor, Evolutionary Neurobiology Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology

In his study, Prof. Watanabe focused on an ancient and diverse group of neural messengers. Called neuropeptides, these short peptide chains are first synthesized in neurons as a long peptide chain, before being cleaved by digestive enzymes into many short peptides. They are the major form of messenger found in cnidarians, and also play a role in neural communication in humans, and other complex animals.

However, past research that has attempted to find similar neuropeptides in comb jellies has been unsuccessful. The main problem, explained Prof. Watanabe, is that the mature short peptides are encoded by only short sequences of DNA, and mutate frequently in these ancient lineages, making DNA comparisons too difficult. While artificial intelligence has identified potential peptides, these have not yet been experimentally validated.

So, Prof. Watanabe's research team approached the problem from a new direction. They extracted peptides from sponges, cnidarians and comb jellies and used mass spectrometry to search for short peptides. The team was able to find 28 short peptides in cnidarians and comb jellies and determine their amino acid sequences.

Now knowing their structures, the researchers visualized the short peptides under a fluorescent microscope, allowing them to see which cells they were produced in in both cnidarians and comb jellies.

In comb jellies, they found that one type of neuropeptide-expressing cell looked similar to classic neurons, with thin projections called neurites extending out from the cell.

But the short peptides were also produced in a second type of cell that lacked neurites. The researchers suspect these could be an early version of neuroendocrine cells  cells which receive signals from neurons and then release signals, like hormones, to other organs in the body.

The researchers also compared what genes were expressed in cnidarian and comb jelly neurons. They found that as well as having some short neuropeptides in common, both neurons also expressed a similar array of other proteins essential for neuronal function.

"We already know that cnidarian peptide-expressing neurons are homologous to those seen in more complex animals. Now, comb jelly neurons have also been found to have a similar "genetic signature", suggesting that these neurons share the same evolutionary origin," said Prof. Watanabe. "In other words, it's most likely that neurons only evolved once."

This means, added Prof. Watanabe, that peptide-expressing neurons are probably the most ancestral form, with chemical neurotransmitters arising later.

For Prof. Watanabe, these findings bring new, exciting questions to the forefront of his research.

"If this is true, I'm most interested to know - where did the peptide-expressing neurons come from? And why did the ancestral animal need to evolve neurons? Now that we have a clearer idea of what the earliest neurons looked like, research into their original function can begin."
When a global wave of reinfection was triggered by the appearance of variant BA.5, considered the worst second-generation variant, a new variant, BA.2.75, emerged in India and seems to be outpacing BA.5.

Although there are a lot of unknowns regarding BA.2.75, the major mutations, as well as the astonishing transmission speed and the geographical reach of BA.2.75 sequences, have caught the attention of experts who suggest that these point toward a potential danger.

ACROBiosystems has concurrently developed BA.2.75-related products to support the research investigating new strains. The key antigens, including Spike trimer, S RBD and Nucleocapsid protein, are now all in stock. Antigens including Spike NTD as well as antibodies, Pseudovirus, and ELISA kits for antigen or antibody detection are on their way.

BA.5 is now driving the Global Epidemic Wave

As recorded in the data from GISAID up until the 25th of July, BA.5 accounted for 52% of the sequence library, granting it status as the dominant strain in the latest global outbreak. A series of research results demonstrated that BA.5 is seemingly the most infectious version of SARS-CoV-2 with the R0 value of 18.6 (about 2.79 in wild type).

Furthermore, the strength and power of the immune escape ability have allowed BA.5 to quickly become the dominant strain. A report from New York found that the breakthrough infection capacity of BA.5 is around 4.2 times of BA.1.

The most recent research reports that BA.5 also has strong immune escape capabilities from the serum of BA.1 infected people, which means that current immunity in the population may be ineffective against BA.5.

An unusual second-generation variant, BA.2.75, has emerged

While it was being reported that BA.5 was the worst variant so far, a new variant, BA.2.75, has since arisen in India and rapidly spread to more than a dozen countries, including the United States, Britain, and Australia.

Although uncertainty surrounds levels of infectivity, hospitalization or the capability of immune escape, experts are concerned enough to raise red flags.

Image Credit: ACROBiosystems

Dr. Eric Topol, the founder and director of the Scripps Research Institute in the United States, explained that the BA2.75 variant possesses eight more mutations in contrast to the BA.5 strain, which could result in a stronger capability to escape the immune system.

Tom Peacock, a virologist in the Department of Infectious Diseases at Imperial College London, has also stated on social media that the Spike protein in BA.2.75 has a number of key mutations: It is notable for its accelerated growth and extensive geographical distribution.

According to another renowned virologist, Jesse Bloom from Fred Hutch, the sequence analysis of BA.2.75 exhibits that it is comprised of 17 more nucleotide mutations than the previous iteration of BA.2 mutations and also has two major mutations that have considerable antigen-converting effects: G446S and Q493R on the Spike protein.

Previous investigations have found that G446S is one of the most efficient immune escape sites. The rise of G446S mutation into BA.2 could bring about diminished neutralization. Conversely, Q493R may result from the increased affinity of the virus to the ACE2 receptor.

Image Credit: ACROBiosystems

While the pool of tested samples and sequences remains small, BA.2.75 has attracted plenty of attention in the community as the first second-generation variant to be successfully transmitted across several countries due to its critical mutations and significant growth advantages.

Therefore, it is crucial to effectively monitor and track this variant and to investigate its development soon as possible. At the same time, more complex genetic changes could also emerge in the next evolution of the coronavirus.

ACROBiosystems has been closely following the development of the COVID-19 pandemic and developed the BA.2.75 antigens and other core reagents, which are now available in stock. Moreover, to meet the demands of cross-research, products for BA.2.38, BA.2.74, and Ba.2.76 are also in development and can be pre-ordered now.

Product list

Source: ACROBiosystems

Lineage Molecule Cat.No. Tag Host Mutation Preorder/ Order Omicron | BA.2.75 Spike RBD SPD-C522t His Tag HEK293 G339H, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417N, N440K, G446S, N460K, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H Preorder Omicron | BA.2.75 Spike protein SPN-C522f His Tag HEK293 T19I, LPP24-26del, A27S, G142D, K147E, W152R, F157L, I210V, V213G, G257S, G339H, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417N, N440K, G446S, N460K, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H, D614G, H655Y, N679K, P681H, N764K, D796Y, Q954H, N969K, R683A, R685A, F817P, A892P, A899P, A942P, K986P, V987P Order Omicron | BA.2.75 Spike NTD SPD-C522x His Tag HEK293 T19I, LPP24-26del, A27S, G142D, K147E, W152R, F157L, I210V, V213G, G257S Preorder Omicron | BA.2.76 Spike RBD SPD-C522v His Tag HEK293 G339D, R346T, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417N, N440K, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q493R, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H Preorder Omicron | BA.2.76 Spike protein SPN-C522i His Tag HEK293 T19I, LPP24-26del, A27S, G142D, V213G, Y248N, G339D, R346T, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417N, N440K, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q493R, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H, D614G, H655Y, N679K, P681H, N764K, D796Y, Q954H, N969K, R683A, R685A, F817P, A892P, A899P, A942P, K986P, V987P Preorder Omicron | BA.2.74 Spike RBD SPD-C522u His Tag HEK293 G339D, R346T, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417N, N440K, L452M, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q493R, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H Preorder Omicron | BA.2.74 Spike protein SPN-C522h His Tag HEK293 T19I, LPP24-26del, A27S, G142D, V213G, G339D, R346T, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417N, N440K, L452M, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q493R, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H, D614G, H655Y, N679K, P681H, N764K, D796Y, Q954H, N969K, R683A, R685A, F817P, A892P, A899P, A942P, K986P, V987P Preorder Omicron | BA.2.38 Spike RBD SPD-C522w His Tag HEK293 G339D, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417T, N440K, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q493R, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H Preorder Omicron | BA.2.38 Spike protein SPN-C522g His Tag HEK293 T19I, LPP24-26del, A27S, G142D, V213G, G339D, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417T, N440K, S477N, T478K, E484A, Q493R, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H, D614G, H655Y, N679K, P681H, N764K, D796Y, Q954H, N969K, R683A, R685A, F817P, A892P, A899P, A942P, K986P, V987P Preorder Omicron | BA.5 Spike protein SPN-C522e His Tag HEK293 T19I, LPP24-26del, A27S, HV69-70del, G142D, V213G, G339D, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417N, N440K, L452R, S477N, T478K, E484A, F486V, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H, D614G, H655Y, N679K, P681H, N764K, D796Y, Q954H, N969K, R683A, R685A, F817P, A892P, A899P, A942P, K986P, V987P Order Omicron | BA.5 Spike protein SPN-C82Eu His Tag & Avi Tag HEK293 T19I, LPP24-26del, A27S, HV69-70del, G142D, V213G, G339D, S371F, S373P, S375F, T376A, D405N, R408S, K417N, N440K, L452R, S477N, T478K, E484A, F486V, Q498R, N501Y, Y505H, D614G, H655Y, N679K, P681H, N764K, D796Y, Q954H, N969K, R683A, R685A, F817P, A892P, A899P, A942P, K986P, V987P Order Omicron | BA.5 Nucleocapsid protein NUN-C52Hx His Tag HEK293 P13L, ERS31-33del, E136D, R203K, G204R, S413R Order

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Assay data

Purity

The purity of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Trimer, His Tag (BA.2.75/Omicron) (Cat. No. SPN-C522f) is more than 90% verified by SEC-MALS. The molecular weight of this protein is around 496-548 kDa. Image Credit: ACROBiosystems

Bioactivity

Measured by its binding ability in a functional ELISA. Immobilized SARS-CoV-2 Spike Trimer, His Tag (BA.2.75/Omicron) (Cat. No. SPN-C522f) at 1 g/mL (100 L/well) can bind Human ACE2, Fc Tag (Cat. No. AC2-H5257) with a linear range of 0.2-16 ng/mL (QC tested) . Image Credit: ACROBiosystems

SARS-CoV-2 Spike Trimer, His Tag (BA.2.75/Omicron) (Cat. No. SPN-C522f) at 1 g/mL (100 L/well) can bind Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Spike RBD Broadly Neutralizing Antibody, Human IgG1 (Cat. No. SPD-M265) with a linear range of 0.1-2 ng/mL (Routinely tested) . Image Credit: ACROBiosystems

About ACROBiosystems

ACROBiosystems is a leading manufacturer of recombinant proteins and other critical reagents to support the development of target therapeutics. The company employs an application-oriented development strategy, with a particular focus on product design, quality control, and solution-based support. Our products and services enable anyone in the field of drug development to have a more intuitive and streamlined process.

To respond to the coronavirus pandemic, ACROBiosystems has developed SARS-CoV-2 antigens specifically designed and optimized for serological test kits, including Spike-derived antigen S1, RBD, and Nucleocapsid protein. Proteins have been supplied to diagnostic companies in large quantities.

Sponsored Content Policy: News-Medical.net publishes articles and related content that may be derived from sources where we have existing commercial relationships, provided such content adds value to the core editorial ethos of News-Medical.Net which is to educate and inform site visitors interested in medical research, science, medical devices and treatments.
Fairbanks, AK (99707)

Today

Showers this evening becoming less numerous overnight. Low 52F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Showers this evening becoming less numerous overnight. Low 52F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Oil and Environment Minister, Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, Dr Mohammed bin Mubarak bin Daina, has commended the role played by healthcare institutions in supporting the health sector in Bahrain.

He affirmed the keenness of the Ministry of Oil and Environment to enhance its cooperation with civil society institutions to improve its services to the citizens and residents.

Dr Bin Daina was speaking as he received the Society of Owners of Private Healthcare Institutions (SOPHI) Board of Directors Chairman, Dr Hussain Al Meer, and members, with whom he discussed issues of mutual interest.

The Minister was informed about SOPHIs health programmes and activities, in addition to its vision, objects and achievements.

He was also briefed about the goals that SOPHI aims to achieve through its cooperation with government entities in private medical projects. Dr Al Meer thanked Dr Bin Daina for the meeting, expressing appreciation for his efforts to achieve sustainable development goals in the kingdom.

He affirmed SOPHIs desire to strengthen its cooperation with the relevant entities to achieve the national visions related to the environment and sustainable development.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Minister of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture, Eng. Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, has launched the afforestation project in Diyar Al Muharraq in line with the national strategy aimed at doubling the number of trees by the year 2035 as part of Bahrains commitments.

Eng. Al Mubarak and his accompanying delegation toured the place. They discussed the importance of afforestation and ways of cooperation between the two sides to achieve national aspirations related to preserving and sustaining the environment and increasing the area of green spaces in the Kingdom, which would contribute to promoting sustainable urban development.

The Minister said: There are a number of initiatives and policies to increase afforestation projects in the Kingdom, and we encourage all individuals to participate in each of them. Diyar Al Muharras afforestation project comes as one of the important private sector initiatives in this aspect.

The types of trees that will be planted within the various initiatives have been identified, and they are large evergreen trees that were selected due to their suitability to the climatic conditions of the Kingdom and their low water consumption.

Eng. Al Mubarak praised Diyar Al Muharraqs cooperation and interaction with the Ministry in implementing the afforestation initiatives. Eng. Ahmed Ali Al Emadi, CEO of Diyar Al Muharraq, praised the support of the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture, the facilities provided by the ministry to investors, and its work on developing urban development and introducing the private sector as a key partner in the areas of urban development and investment.
U.S. suppresses civilizations, tramples on human dignity: report

Xinhua) 13:28, August 09, 2022

BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- A report on U.S. violations of human rights released Tuesday pointed out that the United States had been creating a "clash of civilizations," abusing imprisonment and torture, and violating freedom of religion and human dignity.

The report, titled U.S. Commits Serious Crimes of Violating Human Rights in the Middle East and Beyond, was released by the China Society for Human Rights Studies.

The report said that showing no respect for the diversity of civilizations, the United States had been hostile to the Islamic civilization, destroyed the historical and cultural heritage of the Middle East, imprisoned and tortured Muslims recklessly, and seriously violated the basic human rights of people in the Middle East and other places.

"The United States has spread the 'Islamic threat theory' around the world. It has advocated the superiority of Western and Christian civilization, despised non-Western civilization, and stigmatized the Islamic civilization by labelling it as 'backward,' 'terror' and 'violent'," the report said.

Using the 9/11 incident as an excuse, the United States has hyped up the "Islamic threat theory" in the world, deliberately misled or even incited people to be hostile to Islam and discriminate against Muslims, and provoked a "clash of civilizations," mobilizing public opinion and inventing a pretext to justify its global war on terror, according to the report.

In addition, the United States has suppressed, insulted and bullied Middle Eastern countries, undermining the cultural confidence of the nations and their people, and destroying the national pride and self-confidence of the Middle Eastern people.

The report mentioned that prisoner abuse and torture by the U.S. seriously undermined Muslims' right to human dignity. Since the United States launched its global war on terrorism, prisoner abuse scandals against Muslims have been heard all the time.

Apart from U.S. violations of freedom of religion and human dignity, the CSHRS report also focused on Washington's systematic violations of human rights including launching wars, massacring civilians, and damaging the right to life and survival; forced transformation, unilateral sanctions, severe infringement of people's rights to development, life and health.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The National Space Science Authority (NSSA) has announced the opening of registration for all programmers, scientists, designers, storytellers, technologist and students who are passionate about space sciences and students to participate in the fifth edition of the Space Applications Challenge Hackathon, which will be held in person.

This competition is organised by the NSSA, under the supervision of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and in cooperation with the Bahrain Polytechnic (Bahrain Polytechnic) and the Bahrain Society of Engineers.

To register for the competition, visit the NSSA website (www.nssa.gov.bh). The hackathon is open to all ages and attracts participants from all over the world to form teams of creators who use space data available from NASA for space and compete in order to devise solutions to a number of challenges facing the space industry, as determined by the agency.

Competing teams are required to complete their work within 48 hours. The idea of the hackathon motivates the participants to devise new ways and ideas through which space data can be presented in the form of applications, games or innovative technical solutions by the participants.

This event is part of a package of awareness activities implemented by the NSSA, in partnership with local institutions, to promote a culture of innovation and spread creativity among members of society in general, and youth in particular, and encourage them to adopt innovative practices in various sectors, especially the space sector, which constitutes one of the future sciences of growing importance.

The hackathon is held in different cities around the world, where 11 space agencies participate in this edition of the competition, including NASA, European Space Agency, Japanese Space Agency, Canadian Space Agency, Brazilian Space Agency, among others.

The previous edition of the competition witnessed the participation of more than 28,000 people in more than 320 gatherings around the world. NSSA Chief Executive Officer Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Al Asiri said: The National Space Science Authority used to participate in this event annually to highlight the name of the Kingdom of Bahrain in international forums.

The authority sees the value in this kind of competition since it allows them to share their knowledge gained by organising competitions at the local, national, and international levels as well as their extensive network of contacts with professionals, academics, and students.

Al Asiri extended his sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the preparation of this event, especially the Bahrain Polytechnic, Bahrain Society of Engineers, and the authoritys team that handles the preparation and coordination process at the local and international levels.

Prof. Kieran Okohan, CEO of Bahrain Polytechnic, said: We are pleased to cooperate with the National Space Science Authority in organising this global competition, which will enhance opportunities for scientific research and open new horizons for students to engage in various fields, future sciences, and providing them with twenty-first century skills.

This international competition gives students an opportunity to represent the Kingdom of Bahrain globally, gain practical experience in this field, stimulate innovation, problem-solving skills, and teamwork skills.

This will contribute to promoting innovation keeping pace with the development witnessed by the Kingdom, and achieving scientific and technical progress in line with the vision of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

In addition, it will contribute to achieving the goals of the two national strategies related to higher education and scientific research. Dr Raeda Al Alawi, President of the Bahrain Society of Engineers, expressed the Societys pride in co-organising this global competition.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrainis have actively participated in blood donation drives during various national and religious celebrations, particularly during the Ashura season. As a result, the Kingdom has achieved self-sufficiency in the stock of the blood bank.

Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health, Dr Maryam Ibrahim Al Hajri, reported that the initiatives collected 500 blood bags in addition to the years of continuous donation of volunteer blood to the Central Blood Bank, totaling more than 15,000 blood bags since the campaigns launch.

Dr Al Hajri, accompanied by Dr Lulwa Rashid Shwaiter, Acting CEO of Primary Health Care Centers and Chairman of the Coordinating Committee for the Ashura Season for the year 1444 AH, visited the Imam Hussein blood donation campaign at the Naeem Youth Center.

The Imam Hussein blood donation campaign were held from August 7 until yesterday. It was organised by Al Naeem Charitable Society, in coordination with a number of health sector bodies in the Kingdom, in particular the Central Blood Bank
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrains tourism sector continues to recover at a strong pace from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Among those hit hardest by the global health crisis, the tourism industry is witnessing strong numbers, particularly in terms of visitor arrivals, making it one of the driving forces of the Kingdoms economic growth and sustainable development.

According to the latest statistics issued by the Information and e-Government Authority (iGA), there were 38% more visitors who arrived in Bahrain in the second quarter of 2022 than there were in the first quarter.

Total tourism revenues during the same period amounted to BD330.4 million, an increase of 562% over the same period last year, when revenue figures were BD49.9 million. The Ministry of Tourism indicated that the tourism recovery rate reached 82% compared to the pre-pandemic period, specifically, on the second quarter of 2019.

During the second quarter of this year, the hospitality and hotel sector in Bahrain recorded 2,973,000 nights of tourism, far better than the 569,000 nights of tourism in the same perior in 2021, an increase of 422%.

Encouraging results

Tourism Minister Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi said the encouraging results reflect the fruitful efforts of promoting the Bahraini tourism sector regionally and internationally through its participation in many external activities.

She highlighted the importance of restoring the vital role of the sector in supporting the national economy, diversifying its sources and creating job opportunities, within the framework of the effective implementation of Bahrains tourism strategy 2022-2026. The statistics demonstrate that the Kingdom is making progress towards the full recovery of the sector following the pandemic, Al Sairafi noted.

The Minister expressed confidence in the ability of the tourism sector to continue recording a steady increase in the number of tourists, the number of hotel nights and occupancy rates in general. Part of the recovery package created by the ministry is the gradual complete lifting of restrictions on the movement of tourism and travel around the world, as well as the current and future programs organised by the authority in partnership with the private tourism sector.
The Moscow Exchange suspended trading in Japanese yen on Monday.

The decision was announced in a statement published in late July. "The yen will not be accepted as collateral for transactions on the markets of the Moscow Exchange," the statement said.

The exchange said that "potential risks and difficulties" associated with making settlements caused the suspension of the currency.
Public support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida slid to the lowest level since he took office last October, with voters questioning his decision to hold a state funeral for former premier Shinzo Abe, public broadcaster NHK said on Monday.

Support for Kishidas cabinet totalled 46%, down from 59% in the previous survey three weeks ago, while the disapproval rating rose to 28% from 21% over the same period, NHK said.

The results of the survey, conducted by phone and involving 1,223 respondents, came just two days ahead of a planned reshuffle of the cabinet and leadership of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). read more

Abe was gunned down last month at a campaign rally and the government decided to hold a state funeral in September. But the move to pay for the ceremony for Japans longest-serving premier, who was also a divisive figure, has faced criticism.

The NHK survey showed 50% of those polled said they did not approve of the governments decision, while 36% said they did.

... continue reading
Top Japanese lender MUFG Bank has won approval from Chinese authorities to conduct fund transfers out of the country for select clients in a way that reduces scrutiny by Beijing and slashes paperwork.

The clearance applies to MUFG Bank clients based in Shanghai's Lingang economic development zone. A group company under Japanese trading house Itochu has begun using the service.

These clients are exempted from China's requirement that companies sending funds across the border submit paperwork detailing information such as the purpose of the transfer. Authorities scrutinize movement of money to prevent capital outflow and to stabilize the value of the yuan.

The requirement creates a heavy workload for companies, which must provide banks with documents such as business contracts and invoices.

Lingang is part of Shanghai's pilot free trade zone, which offers incentives to draw major companies. ...continue reading
PRESTONSBURG, Ky. (AP)  A Kentucky man accused of killing three officers in an ambush while police were serving a protective order has pleaded not guilty to 20 charges.

Lance Storz, 49, appeared in Floyd Circuit Court on Monday to answer the charges, news outlets reported. Storz will continue to be held without bond and cannot have any contact with the victims or their families, the judge said.
RIDGEFIELD  Ridgefield Public Schools has contracted with a new food service provider, promising new options in the cafeteria.

The new provider, Aramark, replaces Chartwells (Compass Group), whose contract with Ridgefield schools had been up.

Aramarks commitment to excellence, affordability, the environment, and diversity were all important in this decision, the district said in an announcement.

Aramark provides facilities and food services, hospitality management and other services. The district selected the company after putting out a request for proposals for new food service providers, Superintendent Susie Da Silva said.

The contract with Aramark is one year and the district can possibly extend it for longer, she said.

Families will see some new options in school menus, Jill Browne, school finance director, said in the announcement. All schools will continue to utilize LunchTime SoftWare, so any balances from the prior year will be rolled into the current school year.

RPSs new director of food service, Eric Nickelson, has worked for Aramark since 2009, when he started as a student worker.

A native of South Dakota, Nickelson brings a strong work ethic, years of food experience, and a passion for collaboration to the district, according to Ridgefield schools.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is ending the COVID-19-era free lunch program. Ridgefield Public School families who qualify for free- or- reduced-price lunch will need to fill out the form, which can be found by visiting ridgefield.org/food_services.

We look forward to offering our children healthy, fun and well balanced lunch options, Da Silva said.

Aramark will hire full- and part-time servers starting this week. For more information, visit sullivan-kerry1@aramark.com.
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DALLAS (AP)  A suburban Dallas man who evaded arrest for more than 12 years after the fatal shootings of his two teenage daughters in 2008 was convicted Tuesday in the killings that prosecutors said were driven by his obsessive desire for control.

Yaser Said, 65, was found guilty of capital murder in the deaths of 18-year-old Amina Said and 17-year-old Sarah Said. Prosecutors did not pursue the death penalty, so with the conviction, the judge sentenced Yaser Said to life in prison without parole.

The teens' mother, Patricia Owens, told her former husband in a victim impact statement given after the verdict and sentence that she was no longer scared of him.

You can keep those evil eyes on me as long as you want. You will never break me down again," Owens said. "Nor will you ever be able to hurt another person."

Prosecutor Lauren Black said in closing statements that Said manipulated and controlled that household. She said that when Said's daughters wanted to live their own lives, he could see that he was losing control. He was not going to be able to deal with that, so he took their lives, Black said.

The sisters were found shot to death in a taxi that their father had been driving that was parked near a hotel in the Dallas suburb of Irving on New Years Day in 2008. Jurors heard a 911 call Sarah Said made by cellphone, telling the operator that her father had shot her and that she was dying.

Shes screaming out from the grave right now, Black told jurors after playing the 911 call during closing statements.

Sarah Said was shot nine times and Amina Said was shot twice.

Defense attorneys, who said they would appeal the verdict, said people can have hallucinations in moments of extreme trauma, such as when they have been shot multiple times. They also said the evidence did not support a conviction, and that police were too quick to focus on Said as the suspect.

A week before they were killed, the girls and their mother had fled their home in the Dallas suburb of Lewisville and went to Oklahoma to escape Said. The sisters boyfriends also joined them. The prosecutor said the sisters had become very scared for their lives, and decided to leave after their father put a gun to Aminas head and threatened to kill her.

According to a police report, a family member told investigators that Said at one point had threatened bodily harm against one of his daughters for dating a non-Muslim.

In a letter to the judge before the trial, Said wrote that he was not happy with his daughters dating activity but he denied killing them.

Owens, who divorced Said after the slayings, testified that Said was abusive and controlling, and had convinced her to return to Texas from Oklahoma.

Owens testified that when she married Said, she was 15 and he was 29. She told him while giving her victim impact statement that he'd never treated me like a real person, a wife. Instead, she said, she was just someone for him to take his anger out on.

Remember when you put the knife to my throat? I do. Remember when you pointed a gun at me? I do, she said.

Said took the stand on Monday, telling jurors that he did not kill his daughters. Said told jurors that the evening the sisters were killed, he was taking them to dinner because he wanted to solve the problem after they had left home. He said he thought someone was following them, so he had left his daughters in the taxi and fled. He said he did not turn himself in to authorities because he feared he would not get a fair trial.

Prosecutor Brandi Mitchell called his testimony absurd."

In a Dec. 21, 2007, email that was brought into evidence, Amina Said told a teacher that she and her sister planned to run away. She said they didnt want to live by the culture of their father, who was born in Egypt. Her father, she said, had made our lives a nightmare.

He will, without any drama nor doubt, kill us, the email read.

After the slayings, Said was sought on a capital murder warrant, and was placed on the FBIs most-wanted list. He was finally arrested arrested in August 2020 in Justin, about 35 miles (60 kilometers) northwest of Dallas. His son, Islam Said, and his brother, Yassim Said, were subsequently convicted of helping him evade arrest.
VANCOUVER, BC, Aug. 9, 2022 /CNW/ - People living with autoimmune rheumatic diseases and transplant recipients face an increased risk of complications and death from COVID-19, according to a new Arthritis Research Canada study.

Researchers specifically looked at COVID-19 hospitalizations, intensive care unit admissions, ventilation and mortality among individuals who have autoimmune types of arthritis and found they have a 30 per cent increased risk of hospitalization and ICU admission. They also have a 60 per cent increased risk of being placed on a ventilator. These risks vary across different types of autoimmune rheumatic disease.

For people living with ankylosing spondylitis, an inflammatory disease that affects the spine and causes bones to fuse together, those risks are even higher. The research showed a 103 per cent increased risk of ICU admission, 163 per cent increased risk of being placed on a ventilator and a 118 per cent increased risk of death. The reason for this spike in risk is unknown, but could be linked to persistent chest immobility and impaired respiratory function.

"These findings demonstrate a need for further research on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccination in vulnerable groups of people," said Shelby Marozoff, a research coordinator at Arthritis Research Canada. "It's concerning that the risk of mortality attributed to COVID goes up by 24 per cent for people living with autoimmune rheumatic diseases and the mortality risk for transplant recipients is five times greater than in the general population."

This study also proves medical care teams at rheumatology and transplant medicine practices need to pay careful attention to people with autoimmune types of arthritis in order to support early COVID-19 diagnosis and care interventions, as well as fast treatment with new therapies, including oral antiviral therapies indicated for adults with mild-to-moderate COVID-19.

Mask mandates and paid sick leave may also continue to be effective tools in reducing the number of individuals infected with COVID and experiencing severe complications.

"This research will ensure patients with autoimmune disease are treated with more urgency following a positive COVID test," said Dr. Antonio Avina-Zubieta, a rheumatologist and senior scientist at Arthritis Research Canada. "In order to improve outcomes, decision-makers must keep vulnerable people, including the chronically ill, top of mind when making decisions about public health."

To learn more about this research, please click here.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in people with arthritis. Patients are at the highest risk for heart attacks, strokes and blood clots in the legs and lungs in the first year after diagnosis, when inflammation is also at its peak. To learn more about how Arthritis Research Canada is addressing this serious complication for people living with different types of arthritis, please click here.

ABOUT ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA :

Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research institution in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people living with arthritis through research and engagement. Arthritis Research Canada's scientific director, Dr. Diane Lacaille is leading a team of over 100 researchers, trainees and staff whose world recognized research is creating a future where people living with arthritis are empowered to triumph over pain and disability. Arthritis Research Canada is conducting research across Canada in British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec and is affiliated with five major universities: University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, Universite Laval, and McGill University. Arthritis Research Canada is leading research aimed at arthritis prevention, early diagnosis, new and better treatment, and improved quality of life.

SOURCE Arthritis Research Canada

For further information: For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact: Meeka Marsolais, Marketing and Communications Officer, 604-207-4010 or [email protected], www.arthritisresearch.ca
Mike Coppola/Getty Images

After selling out the almost 4,000-seat Premier Theater at Foxwoods for her show this month, Emmy Award-winning comedian Amy Schumer will bring her latest stand-up tour the 500-seat Ridgefield Playhouse on Sept. 30.

All cellphones will be placed in "Yondr pouches" that will keep phones locked throughout the duration of the performance. Yondr pouches act as a sleeve for phones that limit usage. The pouches can only be unlocked at a Yondr station in the venue. Comedians like Dave Chappelle and John Mulaney have similarly utilized the pouches during recent Connecticut shows.
David Zalubowski / Associated Press

Frontier Airlines is launching new, non-stop service between Bradley International Airport and Las Vegas on Tuesday, officials with the Connecticut Airport Authority said.

The airlines first daily, direct flight to Harry Reid International Airport will leave the Windsor Locks airport 5:46 p.m. Tuesday and arrive in Las Vegas at 8:22 p.m. Pacific Time. Kevin Dillon, the Airport Authoritys executive director, said officials are grateful for Frontiers continued investment at Bradley International Airport.
A Connecticut native and third generation soldier who was killed during field training last month had served four tours in Middle Eastern war zones, redeploying when he didnt have to because he felt he was needed, his father and fellow U.S. Army veteran said.

Master Sgt. Michael David Clark, 41, an Army Reserve medical specialist, was killed July 20 at Fort Gordon, Ga., by a lightning strike that injured nine other soldiers.

He felt that he had a skill set, retired Maj. David Maurice Clark said of his sons 22 years of active and reserve duty, which included deployments to Kuwait and Iraq and twice to Afghanistan. Every time that he went, he grew a little bit more.

Father and son served together in Kuwait and Iraq with a combat support hospital before David Clark retired in 2010. Davids father and Michaels grandfather, Maurice Clark, was a mortar sergeant in World War II with the 42nd (Rainbow) Division, liberators of the Dachau Nazi death camp. The three men all wore dress blues for Michael Clarks wedding to Rachel A. Clark 20 years ago.

Michael Clark grew up in Glastonbury and graduated from Glastonbury High School in 1999. He was ambivalent about college, his father said, and decided to join the Army and gain skills for civilian life as an operating room technician.

In two tours of Afghanistan, Clark served on a forward surgical team, stabilizing wounded soldiers and civilians before they were taken to hospitals in the rear. When the U.S. pulled out of Afghanistan last year, Clark worked to find safe passage for translators who had served with American forces, his father said.

In Connecticut, Clark was an operating room technician at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center and worked most recently at the Connecticut Bone & Joint Institute at Hartford Hospital and Manchester Memorial Hospital. He also served on multiple humanitarian missions throughout the world, according to his obituary.

The Army says the circumstances of Clarks death are under investigation. David Clark said lightning struck a tree, and the charge traveled through the ground to the place where his son and the other soldiers were training.

Living in Bolton at the time of his death, Clark was remembered as a patriot and family man. When he was overseas, he always found time to talk to his kids, Logan and Hailey, and encourage them, David Clark said.

He loved planning adventures and challenges for his children  bringing them to climb Mt. Washington, on ski trips throughout New England, and to parks and forests throughout Connecticut where he passed on to them his love of nature and the great outdoors, his obituary said.

On a GoFundMe page to raise money for the childrens college tuition, Rachel Clark wrote, I always knew the risks of marrying a serviceman  especially one like Mike.

Her husband had taken assignments that surely put his life on the line every day, she wrote. But still, his love for his country, his devotion to providing for our family, and his sheer passion for doing what he loved moved him without reservation.

Mike was my rock, and I relied on him wholly, Rachel Clark wrote. It is hard to imagine my life without him. Yet, here I am.

Jesse.Leavenworth@hearstmediact.com
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Actor Ezra Miller has been charged with felony burglary in Stamford, Vermont, the latest in a string of incidents involving the embattled star of The Flash.

In a report Monday, Vermont State Police said they responded to a burglary complaint in Stamford on May 1 and found several bottles of alcohol were taken from a residence while the homeowners weren't present. Miller was charged after police consulted surveillance footage and interviewed witnesses.

The police report said Miller was located shortly before midnight Sunday and was issued a citation to appear for arraignment in Vermont Superior Court on Sept. 26.

The felony charge adds to Miller's mounting legal woes and reports of erratic behavior. The 29-year-old actor was arrested twice earlier this year in Hawaii, including for disorderly conduct and harassment at a karaoke bar. The second incident was for second-degree assault.

The parents of 18-year-old Tokata Iron Eyes, a Native American activist, also earlier this year filed a protection order against Miller, accusing the actor of grooming their child and other inappropriate behavior with her as a minor from the age of 12. Tokata Iron Eyes recently told Insider that those allegations were false.

Attorneys for Miller didn't immediately respond to requests for comment on the Vermont felony charge or the protection order related to Tokata Iron Eyes.

After appearing in several films for Warner Bros. and D.C. Films as the Flash, Miller stars in the upcoming standalone film The Flash, due out in June 2023. Though Warner Bros. last week axed the nearly completed Batgirl film, the studio has suggested it remains committed to releasing The Flash.

In an earnings report last week, David Zaslav, chief executive of Warner Bros. Discovery referenced The Flash. We have seen The Flash, Black Adam and Shazam 2. We are very excited about them," said Zaslav. "We think they are terrific, and we think we can make them even better.

Representatives for Warner Bros. didn't respond to messages Monday.
FLINT, Mich. (AP)  Isaiah Oliver carefully parks his car in the crumbling parking lot of North Flints Greater Holy Temple Church. The lot at the church was meant for parishioners coming to worship, not 18-wheelers carrying pallets of bottled water.

But as the city grapples with its water crisis, the church has been one of the main distribution hubs for donated water, food, clothing, and other essential items. That disaster exposed thousands to dangerously high levels of lead in 2014 when an emergency manager switched the citys water source to save money. Officials failed to treat the water, a step that would have prevented pipe corrosion.

The water crisis opened up our eyes to the needs in the city, says Sandra Jones, who directs the R.L. Jones Community Outreach Center housed at the church.

With no easy access to a grocery store or social services, the center has met the evolving needs of residents  like providing COVID-19 vaccines through the pandemic.

On a visit this spring, Mother Jones as shes known to many, embraced Oliver before they tour the center.

As CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, Oliver is well known throughout the city. He grew up here and took the helm of the foundation in 2017 after working there for nearly three years.

If it were not for the community foundation, we wouldnt exist, Jones says. The foundation has supported the outreach center with more than $430,000 in grant funding over the years. Other foundations provide support as well.

Jones says Oliver and his colleagues understand the communitys plight because many have lived it. Theyve been boots on the ground. Theyve got their ears to the ground, she says. If my water is not good, theirs isnt, either. If I have housing around me that needs to be fixed, they do, too.

Now as families recover from the water crisis and the pandemic, the foundation and Oliver are building on their reserve of trust and their proximity to the community. As the foundations first Flint native and first Black leader since it was founded in 1988, Oliver works to build bridges between marginalized people and wealthy donors.

Its so clear that Isaiah feels a real sense of accountability to his community, says Susan Taylor Batten, president of ABFE: a Philanthropic Partnership for Black Communities, where Oliver is a board member.

Even more than the erosion of the citys water pipes, the erosion of trust was the biggest issue that came out of the water crisis, Oliver said in an interview in his office. Rebuilding trust in institutions is a continuing process. Despite reassurances that the citys water is safe, many residents still dont trust the tap and drink bottled water instead.

The crisis also presented opportunities, Oliver says, to help others learn the value of community foundations and for his leadership to shine through.

The exposure that weve had has given me a platform to talk about what we can do to support people in marginalized communities, he says.

To show some of the work the foundation has supported, Oliver gave a reporter a tour of the city. As he drove, he shared stories of Flint.

The tour cruises through Civic Park, the first General Motors planned neighborhood. Here homes were built for workers and their families. As jobs and workers left, and the tax base eroded, the neighborhood became a shell of itself. Residents are working to revitalize it.

On the south side, near the citys cultural district with its museums and concert halls, are the grand mansions built for Flints elites when the city was a thriving center for GMs manufacturing. Upper-income residents as well as some elected officials live in the neighborhood today.

As the leader of the community foundation, Oliver, 41, tries to be the link between Flints pockets of wealth and disadvantage.

Im a bridge between those folks who have resources and those who need resources in order to get things done, he says.

The bonds Oliver has built were evident as a whos who of Flint gathered to dedicate a rebuilt public library in the cultural district. Funded by foundation grants, wealthy donors, and government dollars, the $20 million building is symbolic of the central role philanthropies play in support of Flints civic life.

Oliver could hardly walk a few feet without stopping for a hug, handshake, or fist bump with someone he knew. The same thing happened during the short walk to the farmers market as he greeted people by name as they worked at food stands or grabbed a bite of lunch.

For most of Olivers youth, he lived with his mother, who supported them with a part-time job and government benefits.

I lived poor as hell, and I didnt exactly know it, Oliver says. My mom protected me from that reality and allowed me to dream.

After he graduated from high school, he attended Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant. He graduated in 2003. Returning to majority Black Flint after living in the predominantly white college town helped him see some of the divisions there that hadnt been as clear before.

In 2004, he was hired as an administrator at Mott Community College, where he focused on building partnerships with local organizations. In 2011, he ran for and won a seat on the board of Flint Community Schools. He served for six years, including one as president.

At the college, he became involved in a plan to improve literacy. Many students entering the college werent academically prepared for their courses. Representatives from schools, businesses, churches, and philanthropies began meeting to discuss how they could serve the areas most vulnerable students. Oliver was asked to guide the discussions. During one of those meetings, Kathi Horton, then president of the community foundation, saw him in action.

It was obvious he was a very good listener, Horton recalls. He was just masterful in bringing out everyones voices and helping the group get comfortable with the fact that there wasnt an immediate consensus.

Later Horton encouraged Oliver to apply for a job at the community foundation. In 2014, he joined as vice president. When Horton retired in 2017, Oliver was named CEO. As the community foundation became the recipient of millions of dollars from other foundations supporting water-crisis recovery, it was moving away from a top-down style of grant making.

We needed to involve community members who before had not been involved in our grant-making decisions, Horton recalls. Oliver had a reputation as a leader invested in making Flint a better place to live.

Last year, the foundation and its donor-advised fund holders made $9.6 million in grants, ending 2021 with more than $299 million in assets.

Improving literacy remains a grantmaking priority, along with increasing access to healthy food and supporting the well-being of children affected by the water crisis. The foundation has worked to keep racial equity as a focus through all of its work, including with its COVID-19 rapid-response fund and addressing the causes of the pandemics heavy toll on Black residents.

In 2017, not long after Oliver became CEO, residents demanded to know how the foundation was spending the influx of water-crisis donations. He made a commitment to answer every question about the foundations grantmaking and finances. Flintstones, as residents call themselves, reserve the right to question everything, Oliver says. He wants to be known as an approachable leader.

When you come to our door, Im going to know you or somebody you know, Oliver says. Im a member of the community who just happens to be the leader of the community foundation.

____

This article was provided to The Associated Press by the Chronicle of Philanthropy. Eden Stiffman is a senior editor at the Chronicle. Email: eden.stiffman@philanthropy.com. The AP and the Chronicle receive support from the Lilly Endowment for coverage of philanthropy and nonprofits. The AP and the Chronicle are solely responsible for all content. For all of APs philanthropy coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy.
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PARIS (AP)  French environmentalists prepared Tuesday to move a beluga whale that strayed into the Seine River last week to a saltwater basin in Normandy, hoping to save the life of the dangerously thin marine mammal.

A medical team plans to transport the 4-meter-long (13-foot-long) whale to a coastal spot in the northeastern French port town of Ouistreham for a period of care, according to Lamya Essemlali, president of the conservation group Sea Shepherd France.

Experts think the whale is sick and in a race against time for survival, she said.

The whale would remain in its temporary saltwater home for two to three days of surveillance and treatment before being towed out to sea, according to Isabelle Dorliat Pouzet, deputy prefect of the town of Evreux.

Then, nature will take its course, Pouzet said. We have to be optimistic... the work has been painstakingly prepared.

A team of some 80 people, including veterinarians and environmentalists, gathered Tuesday near a Seine River lock in the Eure region to plot the exodus of the new local celebrity.

Conservations groups said it would take 24 people to load the beluga into a refrigerated truck for the approximately 160-kilometer (99-mile) trip to Ouistreham, describing the the saltwater transfer as an enormous operation.

Because the region is experiencing extreme heat, the team plans to wait until nightfall before moving the ethereal white creature. It weighs about 800 kilograms (1,764 pounds).

Rescuers hope to spare the whale the fate of an orca that strayed into the Seine and died in May.

Authorities said that while the move carries its own mortality risk because of the stress on the animal, the whale cant survive much longer in the Seines freshwater habitat.

They remain hopeful it will survive after it responded to a cocktail of antibiotics and vitamins administered in the last few days and rubbed itself on the locks wall to remove patches that had appeared on its back.

Sea Shepherd's Essemlali said medical surveillance at the saltwater basin would help establish whether whale is suffering from something we can help it with or from an incurable illness.

Drone footage shot by French fire services last week showed the whale meandering into a stretch of the Seine between Paris and the Normandy city of Rouen that is far inland from the sea.

Conservationists have tried unsuccessfully since Friday to feed fish to the beluga. Sea Shepherd fears the whale is slowly starving in the waterway.
EAST HAVEN  The state suspended a local bars liquor permit Tuesday after a fatal shooting over the weekend.

BullsEye Billiards and Bar on Main Street had its liquor permit suspended indefinitely, according to Kaitlyn Krasselt, the communications director for the Department of Consumer Protection. The bar must remain closed until further notice.

Commissioner of Consumer Protection Michelle Seagull noted in a summary suspension order Tuesday that police have been called to the bar several times for violent incidents in the past year.

My condolences go out to the friends and family members who lost a loved one in this unfortunate incident, Seagull said in a statement. It is clear from repeated incidents that this premise is not operating in a way that prioritizes the health and safety of its customers, neighbors and community.

The bar can work with DCPs Liquor Control Commission to create an enhanced safety plan, at which point they may have their permit unsuspended, Krasselt said.

The bar has a meeting with the commission as well as police on Friday in Hartford to discuss a safety agreement to address our safety concerns moving forward, East Haven Police Capt. Joseph M. Murgo said Tuesday.

Police on Monday had said the state agency was investigating the bar.

The shooting occurred early Saturday morning following a fight around closing time at the bar.

Julius Bolden-Lowe, 26, of Southington, was shot five to six times throughout his torso, stomach and head. He later died at the hospital from his injuries, according to a summary suspension order from DCP Tuesday.

During the fight, another man  who is believed to have been an innocent bystander  was shot in the face, DCP said. Murgo said Tuesday he was not sure of the wounded mans status, but said he had surgery to remove the bullet from his head.

Both victims had loaded firearms during the incident. Though there was a bouncer at the door checking IDs, he did not check guests for weapons on the night of the shooting, according to DCP.

Police are unsure whether Bolden-Lowe exchanged gunfire with his assailant, but East Haven police found evidence that suggests there was more than one shooter, DCP said in the summary.

The bar hasnt been a stranger to violence. A summary suspension order from DCP said police have been called to the bar 10 times for reported fights and stabbings since March 2021.

There has been a pattern of incidents involving violent behavior at BullsEye Billiards & Bar, some of which resulted in victims suffering serious injury, Police Chief Edward R. Lennon, Jr., said in a letter to DCP. A handful of incidents were fights involving multiple people  one of which involved 20 people. There was also a double stabbing in June 2021 that resulted in multiple serious injuries.

Lennon said police were assigned to the bar at closing time at least 62 times in an effort to deter illegal and/or violent activity.

This continued illegal activity has been a constant drain on police resources and has taken officers away from patrolling other areas of Town, Lennon wrote. Despite these efforts, BullsEye Billiards & Bar still has had many violent incidents.
Washington, US (PANA) - The US has commended the signing of the Peace Agreement in Doha, UAE, on Monday by the Chadian transitional government and some groups and welcomed the step toward reconciliation in the country
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WEST HAVEN  About 10 people were temporarily displaced from a three-story home on Admiral Street after a fire tore through the back porch Tuesday morning, according to fire officials.

Firefighters were called to a white 1920 house on Admiral Street around 10:30 a.m. The blaze was in the rear porch of a three-story house but did not get into the actual home, according to Allington Fire District Deputy Chief and Fire Marshal Michael Esposito.
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has told his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu that the State will not cede its governorship ...

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has told his Lagos State counterpart, Babajide Sanwo-Olu that the State will not cede its governorship position to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Recall that Sanwo-Olu was in Rivers State yesterday to commission the Orochiri -Worukwo (Waterlines junction) Flyover in Port Harcourt.

During the event, Wike, a former presidential aspirant told the Lagos Governor not to be deceived by some propagandists claiming they were coming to reclaim the State.

He said the former administration in the State had looted the States treasury, stressing that they will not be allowed to return to office.

He said, My guest from Lagos State, let nobody tell you story that anybody will come here to win as governor of Rivers State. It will not happen.

Those who looted the treasury of the State will not come here to be governor of Rivers State and I have challenged them.

I am fully in charge. I am not that kind of governor people will go to Abuja and hold meetings against. I am fully in charge here.

Recall that Governor Wike had accused the administration of the former Governor of the State, Rotimi Amaechi of allegedly transferring $50 million to a private account from the State Treasury.
Popular Nigerian film director and writer, Biyi Bandele, is dead





Popular Nigerian film director and writer, Biyi Bandele, is dead

His death was announced via a statement signed by his daughter, Temi Bandele.

He was 54.

Bandele, famous for his directing of the movie adaptation of Chimamanda Adichies classic novel Half Of A Yellow Sun, is said to have died on Sunday.

A statement released by his family on Monday said he died on Sunday in Lagos.

Temi Bandele, the deceaseds daughter who issued the statement on behalf of the family, described him as a prodigiously talented writer and film-maker, as well as a loyal friend and beloved father.

He was a storyteller to his bones, with an unblinking perspective, singular voice and wisdom which spoke boldly through all of his art, in poetry, novels, plays and on screen. He told stories which made a profound impact and inspired many all over the world. His legacy will live on through his work.

He was taken from us much too soon. He had already said so much so beautifully, and had so much more to say.

We ask everyone to please respect the privacy of his family and friends as we grieve his loss, the statement read.

Biyi was born in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, to parents who were from Abeokuta, Ogun State.

He was studying Dramatic Arts at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile Ife, when he won the BBC Playwriting Competition, and thereafter relocated to England where he had a flourishing career as a writer.

He was a dedicated artist with a strong passion for life and a string of successes in his writing and filmmaking career. His latest work is Elesin Oba, the Kings Horseman (2022), which he adapted from Wole Soyinkas classic drama, Death & The Kings Horseman, and directed for EbonyLife Films. The film is yet to be released but slated to be screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, TIFF, in September.

He had earlier co-directed Blood Sisters, a 4-part Netflix-original television drama series, also for EbonyLife Films. His earlier works include Half of a Yellow Sun (Shareman Media & State Films, 2013) adapted from Chimamanda Adichies novel of same title; Fifty (Ebony Films, 2015). He was also a director of the highly successful Television Series, SHUGA: Whats Your Reality. He directed FELA  Father of Afrobeat (2018), a TV special documentary for the BBC; and his self-produced TV-Movie documentary, Africa States of Independence (2010).

His fiction and non-fiction work include The Street, Burma Boy, a novel, a recreation of the story of his father and other veterans of the Second World War, who served in Burma, India, which he was working on to be adapted for Film. His other writing works include The Man Who Came in from the Back of Beyond, The Sympathetic Undertaker, and Yoruba Boy Running, which he recently concluded and submitted for publishing.

Biyi was a devoted father to his son, Korede and daughter, Temi.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, has said those behind the Owo attacks have been arrested. Some gunmen had stormed ...

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, has said those behind the Owo attacks have been arrested.

Some gunmen had stormed St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State, killing no fewer than 40 worshippers.

The Federal Government, however, said the Islamic States of West Africa Province terrorists were behind the attack.

During a meeting with editors and media executives in Abuja on Tuesday, the Chief of Defence Staff confirmed that the Owo attackers had been nabbed.

Irabor said the suspects would be paraded after an investigation had been concluded into the matter.

He said, Within the last time we met, we have recorded remarkable achievement. Let me bring it to your notice that within the same period, there have been ignoble actions of men of the underworld that have impinged on our collective well-being, namely the unfortunate train attack, the attack on Kuje correctional center as well as what has been reported in the past the attack on the presidential convoy.

Also, the Owo incident which was intended to bring man and women of the armed forces to present them in a form and shape that make it to look as if the nation is on a siege. We have arrested those behind the dastardly act in Owo.

It was my intention to present them to the public, but because of the investigation still going on, I had to change my mind. I will like to say that in due course, the world will see them and others who are behind other daring attacks in the country.

Details later
Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has alleged that there is a grand plot to keep Senator Ike Ekweremadu away from Niger...





Apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has alleged that there is a grand plot to keep Senator Ike Ekweremadu away from Nigeria owing to the 2023 general elections.





It, therefore, asked the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, to intervene and ensure the immediate release of the lawmaker.





It was reported that the former Deputy Senate President is currently being held in the United Kingdom where he is facing trial for alleged organ harvesting.





While his wife Beatrice has been granted bail, the lawmaker is still behind bars.





In a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike said it was unjustifiable that the United Kingdom authorities had no regard for Ekweremadus diplomatic passport.





While wondering whether there were different laws for Africans, Ohanaeze said no citizen of the UK with a diplomatic passport would be so treated in any African country.





He said, our enquiries clearly show that the offence for which Ekweremadu was charged is bailable. In addition to this, he has diplomatic immunity, but the UK has ignored all these and chose to perpetually keep him in detention.





This is also despite the fabrications of lies in the statement of the alleged minor, David Nwamini, which have all been since exposed.





We have no option than to believe the story that his trial has been heavily politicized by certain interests who are bent on keeping him out of the way ahead of the 2023 general election.





There is every indication that his ordeal cannot be divorced from domestic politics considering the manner Nwamini has acted so far; he is no doubt under a serious influence.





It is quite sad and curious that the UK Government, which should show the limelight on democracy, is allowing itself to be used. We ask: why is Ekweremdu being treated as a convict? Why the long adjournment? This is where the conspiracy theory meets.





The Igbo group called on the ECOWAS parliament, the National Assembly and the Federal Government to demand the immediate release of the Senator.





We expect that the Speaker of the ECOWAS parliament, Rt. Hon. Sidie Mohammed Tunis should speak up and demand Ekweremadus release as a former Speaker of that parliament.





The Federal Government of Nigeria and indeed the National Assembly should also prevail on the UK Government to transfer Ekweremadus case to Nigeria. We know how individuals with diplomatic passports are treated and why it has not applied to Ekweremadu is beyond our comprehension, Ohanaeze lamented.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, said yesterday Nigeria was not meeting its Organisation of Petroleum Ex...

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, said yesterday Nigeria was not meeting its Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, production quota due to oil theft.

Syla, who led a Federal Government delegation on anti-oil theft to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, said the team was in Asaba to seek the support and buy-in of the state government on measures to be adopted to check oil-theft in the country.

He said: As a country, we cannot sustain this kind of theft perpetually, oil theft has become a national emergency, especially as the nation has not been able to meet its OPEC production quota.

Our production has dropped drastically to very unsustainable levels. So, we have decided to take the bull by the horn by putting some structures in place and those structures cannot function effectively without the collaboration of the state government.

On his part, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, who is coordinating the security intervention against oil theft, said security agencies had been dealing with issues of illegal refineries and oil bunkering across the Niger Delta in the last five months.

Irabor advocated the engagement of indigenes and host communities in the fight against the criminal activity.

In his remarks, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mallam Mele Kyari, who was also part of the delegation, lamented that Nigeria was currently losing about $2 billion monthly to the activities of oil vandals, with its attendant effect on environmental degradation.

Kyari said: As a country, we hardly meet our OPEC production quantum of 1.99 million barrels per day with our current production level of 1.4 million barrels per day, which is currently being threatened by the activities of these economic saboteurs.

This has done extensive damage to the environment and losing 1.9 billion dollars every month is colossal, considering the nature of the global economy at the moment.

He held that the team needed the support and buy-in of Delta State government because stopping this oil theft requires the concerted efforts of the Federal, State Governments, oil companies and security agencies.

In his remarks, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa advocated a review of surveillance contracts on oil facilities to involve host communities in order to check the high rate of oil theft in the country.

Okowa insisted that reviewing oil surveillance contracts based on performance of the contractors and engagement of host communities would ensure effectiveness in securing the nations oil and gas assets.

While admitting that the challenge of oil-theft was huge, given the level it had assumed, the governor expressed joy with the steps being taken by the authorities to curb the menace.

He said: I am glad that we are discussing this hydra-headed issue which impacts directly on our economy and the environment.

It impacts on the health of the people and sustainability of the environment and I am glad that we are taking some steps because there are so many issues that led us to this.

We went through situations where gaps where created between host communities and oil companies, and unfortunately criminality set in.

It has gone so bad but we are doing our best as a state. I am also glad about this collaboration, pointing out that it was often difficult to secure the facilities, especially when the persons given the contracts did not have adequate information on the environment or not have the buy-in of host communities.

We know that the impact of the nefarious activities on the health of the people cannot be immediately ascertained, and this collaboration is, therefore, very imperative.

Any measure that will deliberately reduce the level of oil thefts is definitely worth supporting, and as a state government, we pledge our continued support.

Why investment of the communities is needed is because there are some parts of the creeks that cannot be accessed by the surveillance contractor. Therefore, surveillance contracts should not be such that communities are not involved.

The surveillance contracts should be tied to performance such that when there are oil thefts you terminate the contract and it is always good that communities are involved because they know the environment better.

The governor berated oil companies for not keeping faith with their Memorandum of Understanding, MOUs, thereby making the stakeholders to lose confidence in the system.

He explained that when oil companies failed to sign or implement MoUs, it becomes very difficult for the state government to mediate when there are issues.

The security agencies must heighten their operations and they need to be resourced to enable them to also increase their level of surveillance and for this to succeed, there must be sincerity on the part of all stakeholders.
The Governor-elect of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has vowed to fulfil all promises made to the workers in the state when he assum...

The Governor-elect of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has vowed to fulfil all promises made to the workers in the state when he assumes office.

Oyebanji stated this during a visit to the Nigeria Labour Congress, Ekiti State Council to appreciate the support of workers during the election.

He equally promised to be responsive and responsible, enjoining workers to criticise him constructively whenever he is wrong.

Responding, the NLC Chairman, Ekiti State Council, Comrade Kolapo Joshua Olatunde congratulated the Governor-elect, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and the Deputy Governor-elect, Monisade Christiana Afuye on their victory in the election to Ekiti State highest offices.

He said You set an astounding paradigm for everyone in Ekiti State by starting your political career from the grassroots to the uppermost positions. Your combination is undeniably an epitome of a trailblazer.

We candidly wish you landmark achievements and triumphant tenure in the discharge of your executive duties.

Olatunde urged the Governor-elect to assist in the reinstatement of fifteen staff of the Ekiti State House of Assembly who were sacked a few years ago.
The Malian army has issued an update on the terror attack near the town of Tessit. The military said ISIS affiliate Islamic State in the Gre...

The Malian army has issued an update on the terror attack near the town of Tessit.





The military said ISIS affiliate Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) carried out the incursion.





The terrorists killed four civilians, and 17 Malian soldiers, destroyed vehicles and equipment; nine soldiers are missing.





On 07 August 2022 around 15h00, the army units of Tessit responded vigorously to a complex and coordinated attack by armed terrorist groups, presumably from ISGS, the army said.





The statement added that at least seven terrorists were killed in the battle which left 22 injured.





Tessit is close to Malis border with Niger and Burkina Faso; the ISGS and other armed groups routinely attack the three countries.





Mali has been unstable in the last decade with three military takeovers since 2012.





Colonel Assimi Goita was installed as transitional president in May 2021 after he led mutineers to oust ex-President Ibrahim Keita.
Rotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo, says the person who accommodated the gunmen behind the attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, h...

Rotimi Akeredolu, governor of Ondo, says the person who accommodated the gunmen behind the attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, has been arrested.

On June 5, gunmen attacked the church, and 40 people were confirmed dead after the incident.

Earlier on Tuesday, Lucky Irabor, chief of defence staff, announced that the gunmen behind the attack on the church have been arrested.

Irabor added that the suspects would have been paraded, but investigations are ongoing.

Giving an update on the case when the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) visited him on Tuesday, Akeredolu said five suspects have been arrested over the incident.

Now that the military has announced it, I can tell you that five of them have been arrested now, Akeredolu said..

They are still on the trail of the rest. The home where they lodged in Owo and the person that accommodated them before the attack has also been arrested.

We did not spare a moment. I am happy that the chief of defence staff has announced it. We have known for a while but we needed not to come out with it because more works are still ongoing.

I can confirm that this arrest has been made and they are still on the trail of some of them.

According to a statement by Richard Olatunde, his chief press secretary, Akeredolu also warned Ebira people living in the state to avoid crime, adding that some abductees claimed they were held captive in farmlands owned by Ebira natives.

I want to use this medium to urge our brothers to concentrate on their farming trade. It will be unfortunate to know that the Ebiras in our midst are now involved in kidnapping, he was quoted as saying.

We are appealing to them not to copy bad thing. The traders selling by the roadside should not become informants. We are not fighting them.

We have seen their numbers. They supported and voted for us during elections. I will call their leaders and talk to them. Our brothers who were kidnapped on their way to Ikare, talk to them. They were taken to Ebira farmsteads.

For me, we have lived together for too long for this to happen. I am ready to make any effort to ensure that the conviviality that we have enjoyed continues. But we are begging their leaders to urge them not to copy bad thing. They are in our midst; we are surrounded by them. The issue of security is key and its dynamic.
Valentine Obienyem, media aide of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), says the former governor is not a member of ...

Valentine Obienyem, media aide of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), says the former governor is not a member of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS), better known as the Pyrates Confraternity.

Obienyem responded to the claims of the membership of the LP presidential candidate in a terse text message on Monday.

Not at all, the media aide said after he was asked to respond to trending social media posts suggesting that Obi belongs to the confraternity.

In a now-deleted Facebook post, one Fejiro Oliver, who claimed to be a member of the association, described Obi as a dedicated Pyrate who has led by the tenets we were baptised with.

I have watched the trending video of the revered and worldwide adored Pyrates Confraternity video, a beloved Association that Im proud to belong to, where they ruled out Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a candidate in our ongoing convention taking place in Lagos State, the post had read.

As customary with the fraternity to use songs to pass messages to society, towards condemning or supporting individuals, government or policies, I find this particular song in bad taste, especially with the way an uninformed member posted it on social media.

Yes, Peter Obi is one of us, a dedicated Pyrate who has led by the tenets we were baptised with. He has always promoted the ideals of Pyracy during his days as a Governor and has contributed to the frat as a whole.

It is proper we support one of our own to ascend the number position in Nigeria after getting the number two in Namadi Sambo. We do know that with Peter Obi as President, the just society that we want will be achieved and the ills militating against a just society that we fight will be reduced.

While it is in our inner consciousness to gyrate towards one of our very best to be President, it is improper to promote it publicly.

In PDP and APC do we have many men who are time tested seadogs, men in very high places and the best where they are.

We cannot publicly disown these men who support Tinubu their whole life or will die for Atiku Abubakar to emerge as President for Peter Obi.

Peter Obi is better but moderation is also everything.
Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has defended his reasons for inviting members of the opposition political parties to commission projects...





Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has defended his reasons for inviting members of the opposition political parties to commission projects in the state.





The governor said he wants them to come and see what he has done and take the message back home.





He was speaking during the commissioning of the Ogbunuabali Eastern Bypass dualized road in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.





The Governor said, Nobody can stop me from bringing people from other walks of life to see what we have been able to do, and what we are doing in Rivers state.





Yesterday, the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sawolu was here. Today the former Governor of Sokoto was here, on Thursday the Speaker of the House of Representatives will be here to commission the assembly residence.





Go and see the wonders that God helped us to do.





Whether you are in Labour Party, APC or PDP, it is to invite you to come and see, and then go back home and compare.





Wikes defence came after a former Rivers South East senator, Lee Meaba described his action as anti-party activities.





Sen. Meaba wondered why Governor Wike in the middle of campaigns is promoting allies of the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, instead of the PDP presidential candidate.





He said, If we see anybody who wants to stop us from producing the next government at the centre, then the person needs to know what he is fighting for.





If you stop us from working for Atiku, that is anti-party to the highest level, I stand to be corrected.





In the middle of our campaign, you line up Tinubus men, why do you line up Tinubus men, in the middle of our campaign, you are highlighting APC and Tinubu above our own candidate.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable.
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
A state appeals court on Tuesday ruled that Jefferson Parish School Board member Simeon Dickerson, who is running for re-election, can remain on the November ballot.

The three-judge panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeal split 2-1 in their decision to uphold a district court judges decision last week to toss out a lawsuit challenging Dickersons eligibility.

In the lawsuit, petitioner Veronica Braggs alleged that Dickerson didn't live in the district, hadnt filed his required tax returns and owed outstanding campaign finance fines.

But after a four-hour hearing in 24th Judicial District Court in Gretna, Judge Donald A. Donnie Rowan Jr. dismissed the claims and ruled that Dickerson, who was first elected to represent the school board's 5th District in 2018, could remain a candidate.

Incumbent Jefferson Parish School Board member Simeon Dickerson can run for re-election, judge rules Jefferson Parish School Board member Simeon Dickerson is eligible to run for re-election, after a judge on Monday dismissed a wide-ranging law

In separate opinions, the appellate court split on whether Dickerson had offered sufficient, objective evidence at trial to rebut claims that he hadnt filed state tax returns before qualifying for re-election.

Braggs lawsuit alleged that Dickerson had falsely certified on his notice of candidacy that he had filed his state income tax returns for each of the last five years, as required by law.

Responding to a public records request on July 27, the Louisiana Department of Revenue noted that it had not received tax returns from Dickerson for 2020 and 2021.

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At trial, however, Dickersons tax preparer, LaTonya Jackson, testified under oath that she had finished preparing and mailed his 2020 and 2021 returns to the state on July 14.

Judges John Molaison Jr. and Stephen Windhorst in their majority opinion for the 5th Circuit wrote that with Jacksons testimony, Dickerson had successfully rebutted allegations at trial that his tax returns at had not been filed at the time he signed the notice of candidacy.

However, in a dissenting opinion, Judge Jude Gravois wrote that Jacksons testimony alone was subjective and unsupported, adding that Dickerson should be disqualified from the race.

Braggs attorney, Stephen Gele, said they plan to appeal the ruling to the Louisiana Supreme Court.

Braggs, a registered voter in District 5, is not running for the School Board post. Two other candidates qualified to challenge Dickerson: Jessica Bertrand McClendon and Derrick Shepherd. All three candidates are Democrats.

The district covers a large area across the west bank and crosses the river into Kenner. The election is Nov. 8.

In an interview, Dickerson reiterated his belief that Shepherd was behind the legal challenge, saying that hes going through extreme measures to not hav to run against him. Shepherd has dismissed the allegation that hes involved in the lawsuit.
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Hello, hello! Welcome back,fans! This week on the site, were headed into the jungle planet of Felucia. Its a tragic site for theuniverse, as it is the planet where the beloved fan-favorite Jedi Master Aayla Secura meets her end during Order 66. Felucia has a much more important role in thegalaxy than you may have realized; it played a major role in The Clone Wars, the Old Republic era, and many storylines in the Expanded Universe. Stay tuned throughout the week for more articles, insights, videos, and information about the best merchandising youll want to add to your collection.The Order 66 sequence is one of the most jaw dropping moments in the entirefranchise. A majority of the Jedi Order is wiped out in a shocking moment, where Emperor Palpatine orders the clone troopers to revert to their programming, and execute their Jedi leaders. Its one of the many reasons thatbecame the firstfilm to receive a PG-13 rating from the MPAA. Although Anakins graphic dismemberment is the primary reason, the tragedy of the Order 66 sequence is just as shocking of a moment.Many of the fan-favorite Jedi Knights and Jedi Masters who had appeared in the other prequels meet their grizzly fate in this shocking scene. Whileandgave them little more than cameos, the subsequent novels, books, and games had fleshed out these characters, making their deaths even sadder. Among the Jedi killed in the conflict was Aayla Secura. Master Secura is killed by her Clone Commander, Bly, on the planet Felucia.However,revealed that the lush planet of Felucia had been a frequent conflict spot during the war. In the action-packed opening sequence to season two premiere, Holocron Heist, Anakin and Ahsoka lead an intense battle against the Seperatist forces. Ashoka bickers with Anakin after her master orders her to flee, as she thinks that they still have a chance to save the planets innocent population.Anakin, Ashoka, and Obi-Wan crash land on Felucia after another space battle in the episode Bounty Hunters. The Jedi come to the aid of a group of local farmers, and are forced to team up with the bounty hunters Sugi, Embo, Rumi Paramita, and Seripas. The farming village is under attack by Hondo Ohnaka. Although Hondo had previously helped the Jedi by offering them an imprisoned Count Dooku, he ultimately betrayed them, thinking he could deceive both the Separatists and the Republic.Ahsokas difficulties on Felucia dont stop. She once again tries to free the planet from the Separatists with Anakin and her mentor, Plo Koon, inseason three penultimate episode Padawan Lost. During the chaos of the battle, Ahsoka is captured by Trandoshan slavers. She is taken off planet, and has to escape from her new captors with Chewbacca in the final season three episode, Wookiee Hunt.What do you think,fans? What are some of your favorite moments on the planet Felucia? Do you like the AT-TE walkers? Let us know in the forums , and as always, may the Force be with you!Check out Rebelscum.com merch!Be sure to follow us on all of our social media platforms:
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
Former President Donald Trump said his Florida Mar-a-Lago home is under siege and occupied by a group of FBI agents in a statement late Aug. 8.

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Trump said.

The FBI declined to comment on a press inquiry from The Epoch Times. Its parent agency, the Department of Justice (DOJ), did not respond to a request for comment.

Trumps lawyer Christina Bobb confirmed with CNN on Monday night that the FBI seized documents from Mar-a-Lago.

President Trump and his legal team have been cooperative with FBI and DOJ officials every step of the way. The FBI did conduct an unannounced raid and seized paper, Bobb said.

The alleged raid by the FBI came two days after Trumps latest hint at a 2024 run, in which he stopped short of giving an official announcement.

Well, its not a long period, regardless, whether you go before or after, certainly not a very long period of time, the former president said when responding to questions from the press before he took the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Dallas, Texas, on Saturday.

Its coming, Trump said, and I think people are going to be very happy.

Our country has never been in a position like this. We lost everything. Weve lost energy independence. Weve lost our prestige. Weve lost every single thing you can lose, Trump said during the event, noting the withdrawal from Afghanistan, which he previously called the greatest tactical mistake in history, and the border crisis.

Weaponized Justice System

The 45th president said during his speech that he may be the most persecuted person in the history of America.

A friend of mine recently said that I was the most persecuted person in the history of our country, Trump said during his speech at CPAC. And then I thought about it, because I didnt have time to think much because Im always being persecuted, and I felt he may very well be right.

Trump called the raid prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want [him] to run for President in 2024, especially based on recent polls, adding that Democrats will likewise do anything to stop Republicans and Conservatives in the upcoming Midterm Elections.

Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before, Trump said.

During an America First Policy Institute event in July, Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), who was part of Trumps legal defense team during the Democrats 2019 attempted impeachment of Trump, told The Epoch Times in an interview that the Biden administration has completely weaponized the Department of Justice (DOJ).

By design, the American justice system is a bulwark against tyranny, Johnson said. But if the Department of Justice, for example, is weaponized for political purposeswhich is what were seeing right now in the Biden ministrationthat jeopardizes that foundational pillar itself.

Todays raid on the former Presidents home in the middle of an election season looks like another egregious & unprecedented abuse of power, Johnson said in a statement on Monday.

We will restore order & accountability as soon as we regain the gavels for a Republican majority in November. It cant happen soon enough! Johnson added.

Third-World Marxist Dictatorship

Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries, Trump said in his Monday statement. Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before.

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) echoed Trumps comment.

Using government power to persecute political opponents is something we have seen many times from 3rd world Marxist dictatorships, Rubio said in a statement on Twitter late Monday. But never before in America.

After today[]s raid on Mar A Lago what do you think the left plans to use those 87,000 new IRS agents for?

The FBI isnt doing anything about the groups vandalizing Catholic Churches, firebombing Pro-Life groups or threatening Supreme Court justices. But they find time to raid Mar A Lago, Rubio said.

Outcry from Republicans

South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem said in a statement on Monday: The FBI raid on President Trumps home is an unprecedented political weaponization of the Justice Department. Theyve been after President Trump as a candidate, as President, and now as a former President. Using the criminal justice system in this manner is un-American.

The DOJ & FBI are being weaponized like never before to target political opponents. This Admin has thrown the rule of law and faith in our democratic institutions out the door, said Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) in a Monday Twitter post. Joe Biden and Merrick Garland must answer immediately for todays raid against an American president.

The inconsistent and partisan application of the law by the FBI has gone too far, Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) said on Monday. The Democrats, for too long, have used our government agencies from the FBI to the IRS to target their political opponents. This inconceivable raid is an attack on our Republic.

This action, a raid on a former President and political rival, is something we would expect from Putin on his rivals not here, not in the USA, Rep. Dan Meuser (R-Pa.) said.

The weaponization and politicalization of federal agencies is egregious and scary. These are Gestapo-like tactics. If the FBI can do this to President Trump, what do you think 87,000 new IRS agents will do to the American people? Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.) said. Did Biden sign off on this raid? The American people deserve answers.

I stood up to Americas bureaucratic corruption, I restored power to the people, and truly delivered for our Country, like we have never seen before. The establishment hated it, Trump said in his Monday statement.

Now, as they watch my endorsed candidates win big victories, and see my dominance in all polls, they are trying to stop me, and the Republican Party, once more. The lawlessness, political persecution, and Witch Hunt must be exposed and stopped, Trump said.

I will continue to fight for the Great American People!

From The Epoch Times
Japan marks 77th anniversary of atomic bombing of Nagasaki amid calling for revisiting its brutal history

Xinhua) 13:55, August 09, 2022

People attend the ceremony commemorating the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing at the Peace Park in Nagasaki, Japan, Aug. 9, 2022. Japan's Nagasaki City commemorated the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing on Tuesday, with the international community urging Japan to see itself not as merely a victim. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu)

TOKYO, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Japan's Nagasaki City commemorated the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing on Tuesday, with the international community urging Japan to see itself not as merely a victim.

The annual ceremony on Tuesday allowed for more people to attend, owing to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Officials and dignitaries from more than 80 nations were represented at the ceremony, along with atomic bomb survivors and relatives of the victims who had gathered from early in the morning to offer prayers to the lives lost.

At 11:02 a.m. local time, a moment's silence was observed by those attending the ceremony as this was the time when a U.S. B-29 bomber dropped a plutonium-core atomic bomb, nicknamed Fat Man, on Aug. 9, 1945, killing around 74,000 people in Nagasaki by the end of that year.

Over a one-year period through the end of July, Nagasaki confirmed the deaths of 3,160 atomic bomb survivors, with its list now officially recognizing 192,310 people as victims of the atomic bombing.

The atomic bombing of Nagasaki followed the one dropped on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, with both bombings a means of accelerating the end of World War II and forcing Japan to surrender.

While Japan inwardly looks at the tragedies it had experienced at the end of World War II, historians and political minds of the international community have encouraged Japan to come to see itself not as merely a victim of the atomic bombings but also as a perpetrators who led to these tragic incidents to happen in the first place.

Japan brutally occupied many parts of Asia before and during World War II, causing untold suffering and death to hundreds of thousands of innocent victims.

Members of a chorus rehearse before the ceremony commemorating the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing at the Peace Park in Nagasaki, Japan, Aug. 9, 2022. Japan's Nagasaki City commemorated the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing on Tuesday, with the international community urging Japan to see itself not as merely a victim. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Bianji)
Some of Chicago's biggest and best-known hospitals have been making an increased push into the Northwest Indiana market.

Rush University System for Health opened the Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush Physical Therapy clinic in Munster, does thoracic surgery at Franciscan Health hospitals in Northwest Indiana, plans to provide telestroke services at Franciscan hospitals and is in the process of building a new Rush Munster Outpatient Center at 9200 Calumet Ave. that's expected to open soon.

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Childrens Hospital of Chicago neonatologists will start providing medical care this fall at Franciscan Health Crown Point, where the two hospitals will partner on creating a "regional center of excellence" for neonatology in Northwest Indiana.

And UChicago Medicine broke ground last week on a $121 million, two-story, 130,000-square foot micro-hospital at Interstate 65 and 109th Avenue in Crown Point, which will be its first freestanding medical facility in Indiana and largest facility outside of its home base in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood.

"These health care providers are expanding into the area to meet demand, particularly for specialized medicine," Indiana University Northwest associate professor of economics Micah Pollak said. "Indiana, including Northwest Indiana, has an aging population, and we often rank near the bottom of U.S. states in many health measures. While health care is already one of the largest industry employers in Northwest Indiana, we lack strong coverage of many specialized areas."

UChicago Medicine, which already had specialty medical offices in Schererville, Munster, Merrillville and Calumet City, found roughly 15% of Northwest Indiana residents go to Chicago for health care.

"Residents of Northwest Indiana often travel to Chicago for access to specialists, and the expansion of health care providers to the Region will help bring those specialists closer and improve access," Pollak said. "While existing health care providers likely wont compete directly with these new providers, if greater expansion follows, we will likely see the health care industry in Northwest Indiana become more competitive. Ultimately, greater access to specialists and increased competition will benefit Northwest Indiana residents and help improve overall public health."

The Chicago hospitals making incursions into the Northwest Indiana market will compete with major players in the Calumet Region health care sector like Franciscan Health, Community Healthcare System, Northwest Health Indiana and Methodist Hospitals.

Northwest Indiana health care providers also have been pursuing upgrades, such as new Franciscan Hospitals in Michigan City and Crown Point. Community Healthcare System opened the new Community Stroke and Rehabilitation Center specialty hospital in Crown Point. Lakeshore Bone and Joint Institute opened a new 40,000-square-foot facility in the Beacon Hill development at the northeast corner of 109th Avenue and Delaware Street just off of Interstate 65. The doctor-owned NW Indiana ER & Hospital also recently opened off the Borman Expressway in Hammond.

"Health care is a competitive business," Purdue University Northwest clinical associate professor of finance and economic development Anthony B. Sindone said. "To keep up with increased competition, current providers are innovating by using technology to provide better outcomes for patients. This should result in improvements in public health."

Public health has been a persistent concern in Indiana, which lags behind other states in many health metrics, Sindone said.

"Indiana ranks relatively low in health care outcomes. We rank approximately 32nd in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report; 23rd in Health Care Access, 27th in Health Care Quality, and 40th in Public Health," he said. "It follows, therefore, that there is a market for improving and expanding health care supply to meet the health care demands of the people of Indiana and Northwest Indiana."

The area's economic growth also is attracting new health care providers.

"Demand for health care is rising steadily due to increasing and aging population we observe here in Northwest Indiana," Sindone said. "According to the U.S. Census Bureau, our population has grown by more than 2000 people since the pandemic. We are projecting a more than 10% increase in our states population by 2050. Illinois, in contrast, is losing population to Indiana. It makes sense, then, that there are opportunities for health care providers to move to where their patients are or projected to be."

Methodist Hospitals President and CEO Matt Doyle said the Calumet Region's established health care systems were used to the competition in what was already a competitive market.

"Chicago hospitals looking for patients in Northwest Indiana is nothing new  it has been going on for decades," he said. "Methodist Hospitals has always worked to provide high-level services to our community so they don't need to turn to Chicago hospitals. However, we have created partnerships with Chicago academic medical centers when it benefits our patients and serves our mission. A recent example is our partnership with the University of Chicago to provide telestroke and complex cardiovascular surgical services to our patients."
The United Steelworkers union said it is continuing to work toward a new contract with both Cleveland-Cliffs and U.S. Steel, even as many of its negotiators left Pittsburgh to head west to the union's constitutional convention in Las Vegas.

The current contracts setting the pay, benefits, workplace safety and working conditions for more than 11,000 steelworkers in Northwest Indiana expire in September. The union and steelmakers have been working toward a new deal.

"As our constitutional convention occurs this week, we remain hard at work to achieve a fair contract. Our experts on pensions and healthcare continue to analyze info and evaluate proposals," the USW said in an update to members. "We also are working through data provided by U.S. Steel to understand employment costs and how that impacts proposals and responses."

Meetings with U.S. Steel in Pittsburgh were scheduled to resume Monday. Talks with Cleveland-Cliffs will pick back up sometime in mid-August.

"Work toward a new contract continues, although many members of our Cleveland-Cliffs negotiating committee are participating in USW International Executive Board meetings and the USW International Convention in Las Vegas," USW said in the update to members. "Bargaining over plant-specific issues have continued between your elected local leaders and management counterparts, and our committee will review information to determine our next steps, calculate the cost of our proposals and focus on resolving our issues quickly when meetings resume."

More than 3,000 union members are gathering in Las Vegas for the convention that was supposed to take place in 2020 but was postponed because of the pandemic.

"The USW conducts critical business, including changes to our constitution, strike and defense fund and consideration of resolutions that set our union's priorities at the International Convention, which is typically held every three years," the USW member said in its update to members.
HAMMOND  Indiana State Police say a bullet entered the cab of a truck Monday afternoon along a local eastbound stretch of Interstate 80, striking a cup holder and soda can near the driver's legs.

Police are seeking information on the expressway shooting that occurred shortly before 3 p.m. just east of the Illinois state line.

The truck driver, who was not injured, reportedly told police someone in a small gray Nissan with Illinois license plates shot at his vehicle for no apparent reason.

A trooper arrived on scene and discovered two bullet holes in the truck, ISP reported. A bullet was recovered by police.

"This is an ongoing investigation," police said.

Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact Trooper John Landowski at 219-696-6242. Callers can remain anonymous.
UNION TOWNSHIP  Porter County police say a 62-year-old Illinois woman, who drove her vehicle into a pond, was nearly four times the legal limit for drinking alcohol and driving.

The county officer said was called out shortly before 6 p.m. Monday and arrived at the pond in the area of 300 W. County Road 100 North to find a Jeep Liberty partially submerged in the water and the driver, identified as Michele Mau, on the land.

Mau said she was not injured, but the officer reported finding her impaired and smelling of alcohol.

Mau reportedly told police she was on her way to Westville from her home in Mokena, Illinois, when became lost. She denied consuming any alcohol or drugs, police said.

A blood draw revealed her blood alcohol content at .314, which is about four times the legal limit of .08, according to the incident report.

Mau was taken to the Porter County Jail and faces several criminal counts of operating while intoxicated.
HAMMOND  The family of a former Lake County police detective and county officials have settled claims he was wrongfully fired eight years ago.

Lake County commissioners have agreed to pay $180,000 to relatives of Jon O. Breitweiser to dismiss their civil suit seeking unspecified monetary damages.

Breitweiser, who passed away Jan. 10, had claimed his job as a law enforcement officer in the sheriffs department drove him to abuse alcohol and eventually batter a woman, leading to his criminal conviction.

County attorneys argued in 2019 that Breitweisers suit was without merit on grounds it was legally defective and that he failed to control emotional disabilities that rendered him unfit to be a police officer.

Lake County Assistant Attorney John Dull said the two sides agreed to resolve their differences with the cash settlement.

Court papers stated that Breitweiser joined the county police force in 2004 and rose from patrol officer to detective.

He claimed the departments job training forced him to act aggressively against members of the public and create situations that would cause individuals to be charged with crimes in order to reach desired (arrest) quotas for the department.

He said he began to suffer mental exhaustion from the demands of his job. He further claimed former Sheriff John Buncich created a hostile work environment by punishing county police officers he disliked with demotions and undesirable job assignments.

Buncich was sheriff between 1994 and 2002 and again from 2011 until his removal from office in 2017 for bribery in 2016. He is serving at a federal prison in Springfield, Missouri.

Breitweiser claimed the stress of the job gave him depression and anxiety that drove him to abuse alcohol.

He was suspended from duty, underwent psychological testing and was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and bipolar disorder through the department employee assistance program.

Breitweiser said that the department failed to put him in a less stressful job position when he returned to work and that Buncich ridiculed him to suck it up and act like a man.

Breitweiser, who resigned from the department in 2014, was later charged with assaulting a woman in Highland.

He pleaded guilty in 2017 to battering the woman under a plea deal in which the other charges were dropped, and he was sentenced to two years in the Lake County Community Corrections program.
CROWN POINT  A man wanted in the shooting death of his ex-girlfriend last month in Gary was in custody Monday at the Cook County Jail, Gary police said.

Shawn L. Perry, 45, who has addresses in Chicago and Gary, previously was charged in 2019 in a domestic abuse case involving De Shonda Lewis, 42, of Gary.

Perry was charged last week with murdering Lewis on July 23 as she sat in her Ford Escape in the 400 block of Jackson Street in Gary.

Lewis was found dead in the driver's seat of her vehicle, which was locked and parked in a driveway, according to Lake Criminal Court records. She died from seven gunshot wounds to her left arm and flank.

Detectives learned Perry previously had been charged in July 2019 with two felony counts of intimidation and one count of domestic battery in connection with an alleged attack on Lewis at a Gary residence.

In the previous case, Perry was accused of putting Lewis in a chokehold during an argument; body slamming her onto a bed; pointing a black shotgun and a revolver at her and threatening to kill her family; and pointing a gun at another woman when she attempted to help Lewis.

A warrant was issued for Perry's arrest July 13 after he failed to appear before Judge Gina Jones for a hearing in his domestic battery case, records state.

Police obtained a search warrant for Perry's Google location data and learned he was near the homicide scene at the time Lewis was shot July 23 and left the area minutes later, according to documents.

Perry was arrested in late July in Cook County on unrelated charges, Gary police Cmdr. Jack Hamady said.

He was expected to face extradition proceedings in Illinois before being returned to Lake County.
CROWN POINT  A man pleaded guilty but mentally ill last week to felony arson and battery charges linked to a rampage through the East Chicago police station in 2019.

Robert D. Conner, 32, of Evanston, Illinois, admitted in a plea agreement he barricaded himself in a fingerprint room Dec. 11, 2019, and used a cigarette lighter to ignite papers, filling the room with smoke and causing the sprinkler system to engage.

The arson caused more than $5,000 in damage to the department's computer system, printer, camera, fingerprinting machine, breath test machine and other electronic devices and equipment.

As police placed Conner in a cell at the city jail, he became combative and stabbed an officer's head with one of the prongs from a Taser police had used to subdue him, the plea agreement states. Conner obtained the prong from his own shoulder.

Conner pleaded guilty to arson, a level 4 felony, and battery by means of a deadly weapon, a level 5 felony.

If Lake Criminal Court Judge Natalie Bokota accepts Conner's plea agreement, he could face a sentence of two to 12 years.

Lake County prosecutors agreed to a cap of eight years on the arson count and a cap of four years on the battery charge.

Conner's attorney, Mark Chargualaf, and Lake County Deputy Prosecutor Douglas Shaw were expected to argue the length of his sentence at a hearing set for Aug. 26.
HAMMOND  Federal authorities filed armed robbery charges against an Illinois man wounded during a recent service station holdup.

The U.S. attorneys office is naming Trashawn D. Heard, 27, of Chicago, in robbery and firearms charges that carry a lengthy prison term on conviction.

The Federal Bureau of Investigations Gang Response Investigating Team alleges in an affidavit filed in U.S. District Court that Heard was the man who at 10:13 p.m. walked into a Mobil gas station, at 260 165th Street, in Hammond on July 25.

The government alleges he brandished a firearm and demanded the two employees give him money from the stations cash register.

While one of the employees was giving Heard a bag of money, the second, an unidentified female, retrieved her handgun and shot the gunman.

The government alleges Heard dropped his weapon and ran away.

Police found a silver Pontiac registered to Heard abandoned about the same time as the robbery in Calumet City, less than two miles from the crime scene.

Police said it had struck a metal light pole and sustained significant front-end damage. Police found suspicious blood stains inside as well as Heards drivers license and cell phone.

Only minutes later, Heard was dropped off for medical treatment at the Franciscan Health Hammond hospital, about a mile and a half north of the crime scene, by a woman in a black SUV.

The government alleges police located and searched the black SUV used to drop off Heard at the hospital the following day.

They recovered bloodstained clothes consistent with the clothing the armed robber was wearing the previous night.

The woman, who owned the SUV, told police she was driving home the night of the robbery when she was a man walking in the roadway who looked like he needed assistance.

The woman, who works in medical care, said she was driving him to the hospital when she noticed the man removing his clothing on the way there and that he appeared to be trying to hide something.

The government alleges police recovered the gun left at the crime scene by the robber.

It was a Glock, loaded with live ammunition and had an attachment, called an auto sear, that made it act as a machine gun. It also had an extended ammo magazine that contained 28 other bullets.

The government alleges Heard has a prior conviction in Cook County Circuit Court for armed robbery.

Court records do not indicate when Heard would be arraigned on the new charges.
CROWN POINT  A 17-year-old Merrillville boy fatally shot a man in January after the man entered his home and began to argue with him, Lake Criminal Court records allege.

Ryan J. Rose pleaded not guilty last week to one count of murder in the Jan. 19 homicide of Jarcques Gaston in the 7800 block of Hendricks Street.

Gaston, 23, died on a stairway inside Rose's bi-level residence from gunshot wounds to his back, buttocks and neck, according to court records.

The wounds showed Gaston was shot while facing away from Rose, according to documents.

Rose met police at his front door and came out holding his hands up. An officer took a handgun from Rose's front pants pocket and secured it.

The officer's body camera footage showed Rose said, "He came in my house threatening my life," records state.

After talking privately with his mother at the police station, Rose declined to speak to police without an attorney present, documents state.

Police found Gaston, Rose and Rose's mother inside the residence when they arrived, but detectives later tracked down several witnesses who fled the home after the shooting.

One witness told police Gaston entered the home through the front door, started walking upstairs and made a comment about people talking about him, records state. He heard Rose say, "Stop," before gunfire broke out.

A second witness told police he was in a bedroom when he heard gunshots, walked out and saw Rose holding a gun. He fled before police arrived because he had an active warrant in an unrelated case, records state.

Police found no evidence that Gaston had a gun when he was shot and killed, according to documents.
VALPARAISO  Employees at Valparaiso High School were given the green light to return to work early Tuesday afternoon shortly after being evacuated in the wake of a report of smoke in the building at 2727 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso Fire Department Lt. Robert Schulte said.

Firefighters found a light haze and odor in the building that is believed to be mechanical related, he said.

The department cleared the building and is leaving it to school officials to monitor the situation.

The evacuation came as school officials prepare for students to return to classrooms Wednesday.
The Indiana Court of Appeals has reinstated a lawsuit alleging the City of Michigan City, through its then-Mayor Ron Meer, defamed LaPorte County Prosecutor John Lake and his wife, Mary Lake.

The defamation lawsuit filed last year by the Lakes in their personal capacities initially was dismissed March 11 by Starke Circuit Judge Kim Hall for failing to state a claim upon which relief could be granted, records show.

In a 3-0 decision, the state appellate court ruled Monday that was a mistake. It said the Lakes may or may not ultimately prevail in their defamation claim, but their complaint was not insufficient as a matter of law and should proceed toward trial.

According to court records, the alleged defamatory remarks were made by Meer on Oct. 14, 2019, as an "official statement" following the Oct. 10, 2019, arrest of his stepson, Adam Bray, on felony drug and gun charges less than a month before Election Day when Meer was on the ballot seeking a third term as mayor of LaPorte County's most populous city.

Records show Bray subsequently was convicted, pursuant to a plea agreement, of unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, the drug charges were dropped and Bray was sentenced April 1, 2021, to the Indiana Department of Correction.

In his 2019 statement, Meer claimed John Lake targeted Meer's family for political retaliation and political gain, that it was "no coincidence" Meer's son was arrested "just a couple weeks before the election" and that false reports about his son were provided to the prosecutor's office by political allies of John and Mary Lake.

"This retaliation against my family by Prosecutor John Lake must cease immediately! The office of the prosecutor should not be used for personal agendas and political gain. John Lakes bias towards me and my family has been demonstrated repeatedly," said Meer, who narrowly lost his reelection bid and a 2022 Democratic primary contest for Indiana Senate.

Records show Meer's statement was aired by WIMS radio, and published in whole, or in part, by the Michigan City News-Dispatch, The Times of Northwest Indiana and the South Bend Tribune.

Appeals Judge Nancy Vaidik, a Porter County native, said there's no question Meer was an employee of Michigan City for purposes of the Indiana Tort Claim Act and that Meer was acting in his capacity as a city employee when he issued his "official statement" that he signed "Mayor Meer."

As to whether Meer's statement was defamatory, Vaidik said, that is a question of fact for a judge or jury to decide.

She said the appeals court "cannot say, as a matter of law, that these statements are non-defamatory."

"A reasonable trier of fact could conclude they amount to charges of misconduct against John Lake, the prosecutor, and Mary Lake, an attorney. A reasonable trier of fact could also infer they imply facts that may be proven true or false and that there is a factual predicate to them. Under these circumstances, a question of fact exists as to whether the statements are defamatory," Vaidik said.

Michigan City still can ask the Indiana Supreme Court to consider reviewing the case, reversing the Court of Appeals decision and again dismissing the matter.

Otherwise, the defamation lawsuit is expected to return to the Starke Circuit Court for further action.
Here are the recent bookings by the Porter County Sheriff's Department. All information is taken directly from the website.
The owner of Skanda on a Peacock, which depicts the Hindu deity Skanda riding the bird, inherited the sculpture from a collector who had purchased it from Mr. Latchford in 2000 for $1.5 million, according to court papers. The heir, who has not been publicly identified, agreed to relinquish possession of the artifact to the federal authorities.

Twenty-five of the antiquities that are being returned to Cambodia were surrendered by James H. Clark, the internet pioneer and Netscape founder who said he had spent roughly $35 million in purchasing dozens of Cambodian and Southeast Asian antiquities, many of which he used to furnish a Miami Beach penthouse.

One day I recall walking through my apartment looking at these objects and thinking, They really should be in a museum, and not in private hands, Mr. Clark said in a phone interview on Monday. And thats where they will be.

Federal officials have said that Mr. Latchford duped Mr. Clark into believing the artifacts were being legitimately sold and that once they laid out evidence to the contrary, Mr. Clark agreed to surrender 35 items, most of which had origins in Cambodia. Those items include the elephant-headed Ganesha, a bronze seated Buddha and a sandstone Buddha.
The new corporate minimum tax had already been whittled down before the changes over the weekend. Ms. Sinema pushed last week to preserve deductions that manufacturers use to offset the cost of equipment purchases, and lawmakers decided to keep a deduction for wireless spectrum purchases that telecommunications companies said was important for the rollout of high-speed broadband.

The big win for private equitys lobbyists was on so-called carried interest. Democrats had proposed curbing the special tax treatment that hedge fund managers and private equity executives get on the investment gains they take as compensation. After Ms. Sinema objected, the curb on carried interest was replaced with a 1 percent excise tax on corporate stock repurchases.

Tax experts were already skeptical about the corporate minimum tax, saying companies would be able to maneuver their way around paying it.

The minimum tax has always been like a 10th-best solution, and when you start taking out more elements, is it now the 12th-best solution? said Steven M. Rosenthal, a senior fellow at the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center, noting that relatively few companies would now face the new tax. There may be more government staff dedicated to auditing these companies than there are companies subject to the tax.

The Joint Committee on Taxation had estimated that the new corporate minimum tax would apply to 150 companies, but that was before more exceptions were added to the legislation. The tax was projected to raise more than $300 billion in new revenue over a decade, but the slimmed-down version is likely to raise just over $200 billion.

Theres still the issue that companies are going to end up paying little tax under this anyway, said Kyle Pomerleau, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.
Willis Aronowitz is committed to personal autonomy and the pursuit of pleasure, and often she finds it; theres more good sex in her memoir than youd expect from the title. Still, she spends a lot of time reproaching herself for failing to embody her own ideals of brash, independent hedonism. Shes unhappy in her marriage because the sex is bad  a symbol for a deeper lack of connection  but is ashamed of her fears about leaving. What kind of self-sufficient feminist was petrified of being single? she writes.

Convinced that someone with her values and interest in sexual exploration should be at least somewhat queer, she hooks up with women despite experiencing a certain level of dissociation when she does. She rebukes herself when a visit to an erotic massage therapist leaves her cold: Cant you just lie back, relax and enjoy it?

Its not clear where Willis Aronowitz got the idea that she was supposed to be endlessly, insouciantly sexually intrepid. That wasnt Williss message. She believed in the value of erotic pleasure, but she was always cleareyed about the coercive side of the sexual revolution. Women in the 1960s, she wrote, were oppressed both by cultural puritanism and by mens demands that women have sex on their terms, unmindful of the possible consequences and without reference to our own feelings and needs.

The most interesting parts of Bad Sex are about the places where politics and desire conflict, not just in Willis Aronowitzs life but also in those of the women she writes about. She describes how Emma Goldman, an apostle of free love, was crushed by the affairs of her lover Ben Reitman. In The Dialectic of Sex, Shulamith Firestone described romance as a cultural tool of male power to keep women from knowing their condition, but in real life, a friend of Firestones tells Willis Aronowitz, she was boy crazy.
The lawyers representing the three towns  Patrick W. Thomas, Sharon M. VanEmburgh and Lyndsey Ryan  did not immediately respond to emails or calls seeking comment on Monday. The attorney generals office, which is representing the medical examiners officer, did not immediately respond to a call seeking comment on Monday.

In the summer of 2018, Mr. Black developed mental health issues and began behaving erratically, according to the lawsuit. He was eventually found to have bipolar disorder.

On Sept. 15, 2018, a woman called 911 after seeing Mr. Black roughhousing with a 12-year-old boy, the lawsuit says. The officers who arrived used a Taser on Mr. Black and pinned him down near his mothers home in Greensboro, the lawsuit says.

While he was being held down, Mr. Black told his mother, I love you, and cried out, Please, according to the lawsuit, which cites body camera footage from the officers.

Moments later, after his mother noticed that Mr. Black was turning dark, emergency medical workers tried to resuscitate him, but he died after being taken to a hospital, the lawsuit says.

Judge Catherine Blake of U.S. District Court in Maryland said in a ruling earlier this year that the video evidence from Mr. Blacks encounter with the police is not so conclusive as to clearly contradict and outweigh the plaintiffs allegations of excessive force, which dealt a setback to the Police Departments case.
The F.B.I.s search of former President Donald J. Trumps Mar-a-Lago home in Florida drew swift condemnation on Monday evening from some Republican governors who quickly backed Mr. Trumps message that the Justice Department was being used against him.

Mr. Trump decried the search  which appears to be focused on potentially classified material he took from the White House to his Palm Beach home  in a statement as a weaponization of the justice system and an effort to prevent him from running for president again in 2024.

Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida and Gov. Kristi Noem of South Dakota, both Republicans, doubled down on Mr. Trumps language in statements of their own, denouncing the weaponization of the federal government.
The F.B.I.s search of Mar-a-Lago came as former President Donald J. Trump weighs an increasingly likely third White House bid. He has considered making an unusually early announcement this year, a move designed in part to shield himself from a stream of damaging revelations emerging from congressional and criminal investigations into his attempts to cling to power after losing the 2020 election.

But there have been increasing doubts about his viability as a candidate in 2024. A New York Times/Siena poll last month showed that while Mr. Trump maintained his primacy in the party, a significant number of Republicans said they would not support him in a rematch with President Biden. In that hypothetical matchup, Mr. Trump trailed President Biden, 41 percent to 44 percent.

During campaign rallies and speeches this year, Mr. Trump has continued to use the 2020 election as a political cudgel. Hes insisted that election fraud should be the top issue in the midterm elections, and that the investigations into his actions to undermine the results were merely a political hoax.
Mr. Trump was in the New York area at the time of the search. Another day in paradise, he said Monday night during a telephone rally for Sarah Palin, who is running for a congressional seat in Alaska.

Eric Trump, one of his sons, told Fox News that he was the one who informed his father that the search was taking place, and he said the search warrant was related to presidential documents.

Mr. Trump, who campaigned for president in 2016 criticizing Hillary Clintons practice of maintaining a private email server for government-related messages while she was secretary of state, was known throughout his term to rip up official material that was intended to be held for presidential archives. One person familiar with his habits said that included classified material that was shredded in his bedroom and elsewhere.

The search was at least in part for whether any records remained at the club, a person familiar with it said. It took place on Monday morning, the person said, although Mr. Trump said agents were still there many hours later.

After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Mr. Trump said, maintaining it was an effort to stop him from running for president in 2024. Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries.

They even broke into my safe! he wrote.

Mr. Trump did not share any details about what the F.B.I. agents said they were searching for.
Mr. Trump and his allies have relentlessly disparaged the F.B.I. for taking the lead in the investigation into ties between the Trump campaign and Russia. And more recently, the former presidents allies in Congress and the media have sought to deflect blame from him by baselessly depicting the Jan. 6 assault on the Capitol as a false flag operation run by the bureau and abetted by the Justice Department.

One of the most strident attacks on federal law-enforcement on Monday night came from the Florida state lawmaker Anthony Sabatini, who is running for Congress as a Republican in a district near Orlando.

Its time for us in the Florida Legislature to call an emergency legislative session & amend our laws regarding federal agencies, Mr. Sabatini wrote on Twitter. Sever all ties with DOJ immediately. Any FBI agent conducting law enforcement functions outside the purview of our State should be arrested upon sight.

In a post last week, Ric Grenell, who served as Mr. Trumps acting director of national intelligence, said that if the former president were to be re-elected, he must clean out the FBI and DOJ.
SEOUL  Some of the heaviest rainfall in decades struck the Seoul area overnight, flooding homes, streets and subway stations, and killing at least nine people, South Korean officials said on Tuesday.

Three of the dead, two sisters in their 40s and a 13-year-old girl, were found early Tuesday as emergency workers pumped out the water that had flooded their semi-basement home in southern Seoul. Another was a municipal employee, apparently electrocuted while removing a tree that had fallen onto a sidewalk, the police said.

In addition to the nine confirmed deaths, officials said six people were missing after floodwaters pulled them into manholes, underground passages or streams.
MYKOLAIV, Ukraine  The embattled city of Mykolaiv emerged on Monday from a 54-hour lockdown during which officers went door to door in search of collaborators who officials say are responsible for helping Russian forces identify targets for the rockets that pound the city daily.

The governor of the Mykolaiv region, Vitaliy Kim, declared the dramatic operation  which sealed the city, preventing residents from entering or leaving  a success. Five people were arrested, he said, and a number of weapons and communications devices confiscated, though he provided no details.

Im sorry for the discomfort over the weekend, but it was worth it, Mr. Kim said in a video message Monday morning.
That may be because theyre unsure exactly as to Ukrainian plans but they anticipate some kind of offensive in the south, he told the podcast War on the Rocks, on Monday. But he added that Russian forces were still testing lines in the east, putting pressure on Ukrainian forces in the northeast, and making at least a limited attack in the south. So you see now a kind of much more active battlefield, he said.

Regional leaders on Monday outlined the steady toll of that activity. Mayor Ihor Terekhov of Kharkiv, in the northeast, which Russians have bombarded steadily since failing to seize it early in the war, reported at least seven explosions early on Sunday and said shelling continued on Monday, killing one civilian and damaging several homes.

There is definitely no military infrastructure in this peaceful and densely populated area, he wrote on Telegram.

In the eastern province of Donetsk, part of the Donbas, the regional official Pavlo Kyrylenko wrote on Telegram that Russian forces had killed five civilians and injured 17 on Sunday.

In the Donbas, the Russian Army has narrowed its offensive at least for now to an assault on the city of Bakhmut and the towns of Pisky and Avdiivka, all of which are being hammered daily by artillery.

On a recent visit, Bakhmut seemed to be teetering. Explosions and the metallic whistles of incoming shells rang out every few minutes. The only people on the streets appeared to be drunk, poor or elderly, with nowhere to run.
2. Her Dogs During the early months of the pandemic, I thought I was going to lose my mind if I didnt have an animal to take care of to get me out of the house. I contacted a lot of shelters and nobody had any dogs left. Then this lovely woman named Tiffany [at Animal Haven] wrote me back and said, I just happen to have two little dogs here. Ill bring these guys over. I wanted to foster first, but Im a typical foster fail because my dogs bring me enormous peace and a sense of living in the moment as much as humanly possible. Theyre magical little creatures that make my heart bigger and teach me patience.

3. Highway 101 Its the route to my family home in Oregon. Its astonishingly beautiful going from the California coast up through the redwoods and past the little motels on the side of the road and the lighthouses. And youve got to drive slow. You cannot go 75 miles an hour on Highway 101 or youll end up in the ocean. It forces you to take it all in one mile at a time.

4. Tate museum membership Some of the most exciting things Ive seen have been at the Tate Modern. Also, they have the best museum gift shop, and Im huge on museum gift shops. The last show I saw was Lubaina Himid, whos an extraordinary artist who works in a multitude of mediums, from sculpture to audio to site-specific stuff to these colorful, bright, beautiful paintings about life in London and colonialism, family, food.

5. Public Radio I listen to NPR or WNYC easily 24 hours a day. I love the reporters. I love the name generator, where you can type in your birthday or whatever and it gives you one of those kooky names that they all have. It brings me a sense of continuity and keeps me informed because I dont like to watch television news. Im like one of those crazy spinster ladies who listen to the radio at night.

6. The photographer Weegee My mom, for a time, was a research librarian so she had a lot of great photography books, like Robert Franks The Americans. But the one that I still have, and that I will never let go of, is her book of photographs by Weegee. Ive been totally entranced by those photographs, completely mad for them. Photos of city life, freaks and weirdos and criminals and cons and card players and kids playing in the street. His photograph of a transsexual being carted off in a police wagon  just the look of joy on her face as she lifts her skirt to show her stocking  is one of the most extraordinary photographs Ive ever seen.
Daryl Hannahs mermaid character watched a Crazy Eddie ad while learning English in Splash. Dan Aykroyd did a Crazy Ernie spoof on Saturday Night Live. And the spots themselves spoofed everything from Saturday Night Fever to Casablanca and Santa Claus, barraging the city that never sleeps in the cheap wee hours of overnight programming, becoming as much a component of its identity then as graffiti and Grays Papaya.

Subcutaneously, Retail Gangster is a tender requiem for a time, pre-streaming, when people tended to be tuned into the same things: movies in theaters, programs on television, Casey Kasems American Top 40. Also for a grittier, perhaps more colorful New York, which had hoisted itself out of the financial and existential abyss of the mid-1970s with pinstripes (Yankee, stockbroker), the punchy I heart iconography designed by Milton Glaser and  apparently  rock n roll-mad baby boomers buying stereo equipment.

But the meat of this limber book is its investigation into the deep family drama and funny money behind Crazy Eddie, which aggressively undercut competitors like Circuit City and The Wiz with some astonishingly shady business practices. Taking on this complicated if at first small potatoes-seeming story, Weiss is like that valorous spouse who decides to finally paw through the big box of tangled cords and wires in the basement and painstakingly straighten them out.

Image Gary Weiss, whose new book is Retail Gangster. Credit... Anjali Sharma

The real Eddie, last name Antar, was born in 1947 to Sam M. Antar, a window trimmer whose finances revolved around suitcases of cash known as nehkdi, and his second wife, Rosie Tawil, the daughter of a dry-goods salesman. They were part of a Syrian Jewish community in Brooklyn, nicknamed S-Y, that generally looked down on their Eastern European Jewish peers, whom they referred to as J-Dubs. Eddie was short but muscled and good-looking, nicknamed Kelso, after the racehorse. He dropped out of high school (where he met his first wife, Debbie Rosen, a J-Dub) and apprenticed for a young uncle at clip joints near 42nd Street in Manhattan before joining his father and cousin Ronnie in a TV and appliance enterprise on Kings Highway. And the rest is huckstory.
LIFE ON THE MISSISSIPPI: An Epic American Adventure, by Rinker Buck

A dry cleaner in Yankton, S.D., once told me that he had spied so many fussily costumed boaters from the banks of the nearby Missouri River that hed grown weary of new arrivals. People are recreating Lewis and Clark, he said. It happens here all the time. He loved the river, for its waterfowl and promise of imaginative escape, but not always its thru-traveling flock, who, if not reprising the migration of previous generations, often seemed to be proselytizing for one thing or another: energy independence, say, or sobriety. Some of these people are a little on their high horse, you know? he said. To meet a waterborne voyager whose only cause was wanderlust: That was novel.

I thought of my conversation with the dry cleaner while reading Rinker Bucks engaging Life on the Mississippi: An Epic American Adventure, which recounts the authors 2,000-mile journey from Pittsburgh to New Orleans aboard a purpose-built wooden flatboat, like the ones used by Appalachian farmers in the decades after the Revolutionary War. His rotating crew includes a sometime Meriwether Lewis impersonator whom Buck loathes, not only for his casual racism and misogyny but for his pretension  archaic speech, suitcase bulging with 19th-century outfits.
They are all but certain to become law, too. In coming days, the House Democrats are expected to pass the same bill that the Senate did, and President Biden has made clear he will quickly sign it.

Against inequality

The bill sets out to reduce Americans medical costs in two main ways. First, it uses federal subsidies to reduce the cost of both health insurance and prescription drugs. Second, the bill gives Medicare officials the power to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies, which will likely reduce the price that the companies charge for those drugs.

For these reasons, the bill is effectively an effort to use the health care system to reduce economic inequality, much as Obamacare was. The bills benefits will flow overwhelmingly to poor, working-class and middle-class families. Its costs will be borne by increases in corporate taxes (which ultimately fall on shareholders, who skew wealthy) and reductions in the profits of pharmaceutical companies.

Some critics of the bill have argued that these profit reductions will lead pharmaceutical companies to spend less money developing future drugs and, in turn, to fewer promising treatments. And thats a plausible concern. Economic incentives matter.
Bihar Governor Phagu Chauhan has given an appointment to Nitish Kumar at 2 p.m. on Tuesday.

This comes after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had sought an appointment at 1 p.m.

Meanwhile, the meeting of Janata Dal (United), which was taking place at the chief minister's residence at 1 Anne Marg here, has ended.

Sources said that Bihar Governor Phagu Chauhan gave the time to Nitish Kumar at 2 p.m. because ministers of the BJP will be meeting him at 1.30 p.m.

Sources also said that all 16 ministers of the BJP will handover their resignation letters to the Governor. The BJP ministers assembled at the official residence of deputy Chief Minister Tar Kishore Prasad, from where they will go to the Raj Bhawan.

The BJP will also organise a press meet at 1.30 p.m. in Patna to disclose its future strategy.
Federal agents scour Trumps home

News of the search at the former presidents Florida residence rocked American politics, coming against the backdrop of multiple investigations into Donald Trump as he mulls running for president again in 2024.

The search appeared to be focused on Trumps handling of materials he took from the White House when he left office, which included many pages of classified documents, according to multiple people familiar with the investigation. Such materials must be handed over to the National Archives.

Neither the F.B.I. nor the Justice Department explained the basis for the search, in line with their policies of not discussing ongoing investigations. Aides to President Biden said they were stunned when they learned about the search on Twitter.
In his decade of ruling China, Xi Jinping has tried to imbue its people with confidence, telling them that the country is doing very well compared with the chaotic West.

He has told the younger generation that China can finally look at the world as an equal. Its no longer as backward, he said last year.

The East is rising, and the West is declining, he declared, at a time when the United States and other Western countries seemed mired in high Covid infection rates, racial tensions and other problems.
The employers must also give workers at least 11 hours off between shifts on consecutive days or get written consent and pay them an extra $100. And the employers must offer workers more shifts before hiring additional employees, to make it easier for them to earn a sustainable income.

Under a separate city law, large employers like Chipotle must provide up to 56 hours of paid sick leave per year.

The city accused Chipotle of violating all these policies.

Were pleased to be able to resolve these issues, Scott Boatwright, the companys chief restaurant officer, said in a statement. Mr. Boatwright added that the company had carried out a number of changes to ensure compliance with the law, such as new time-keeping technology, and that Chipotle looked forward to continuing to promote the goals of predictable scheduling and access to work hours for those who want them.

The city filed an initial legal complaint in the case, involving a handful of Chipotle stores, in September 2019, then expanded the case last year to include locations across the city. At the time, the city said the company owed workers over $150 million for the scheduling violations alone. Advocates for the workers said civil penalties could far exceed that amount.
The bank had some 8,000 depositors and $140 million in deposits until the investigation, known as Operation Atlantis, was reported by The New York Times in collaboration with news agencies in Australia. Mr. Schiff said the bank had approved fewer than half of applicants and closed more than 5,000 accounts over compliance issues and red flags. He also said the media coverage made it impossible for Euro Pacific to conduct business, as companies like American Express refused to work with the bank. A defamation suit is pending in Australia.

There was no way those allegations were true, but once those stories broke, the banks business imploded, Mr. Schiff said in an interview.

He insisted that the banks compliance against suspected money laundering was so strict that it turned down more accounts than it opened. We were closing accounts all the time, he said.

He acknowledged that two years ago the bank was about $4 million short, because it had, he said, inadvertently been using clients deposits toward operating expenses. He said he had remedied the problem by pouring his own money into the bank.
The day after a missile struck a shopping mall in central Ukraine in June, killing at least 18 people, the Spanish-language arm of Russias global television network, RT en Espanol, took to Facebook to challenge the facts of the attack.

On its account, available across much of Central and South America and even in the United States, the network posted a video statement from a military spokesman claiming that Russias air force had bombed a weapons cache supplied by Ukraines Western allies. A video released by the Ukrainian government, and survivors of the attack interviewed on the ground by The New York Times, showed otherwise.

When Russias war in Ukraine began, Facebook, Twitter and other social media giants moved to block or limit the reach of the accounts of the Kremlins propaganda machine in the West. The effort, though, has been limited by geography and language, creating a patchwork of restrictions rather than a blanket ban.
In another sign of the fragility of Europes supply, flows of oil from Russia to Central Europe have halted over a pipeline payments dispute, raising fears that an energy war between Moscow and its European oil customers could escalate.

Authorities in Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic confirmed on Tuesday that Russian oil deliveries from a critical pipeline stopped on Thursday. The three countries, which rely heavily on Russian oil to fuel their economies, are exempted from a European Union decision to start banning imports of Russian oil later this year.

The dispute centers on the southern leg of a Cold War-era pipeline  called Druzhba, the Russian word for friendship  that carries crude oil some 2,500 miles from the Urals to Central Europe.
Jarret Kerr, an owner of Dog Day Afternoon, a Chicago Italian beef and hot dog restaurant in Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn, said he had seen at least a 50 percent increase in orders of hot Italian beef sandwiches  at $15, the most expensive item on the menu  since the show debuted. The cramped shop used to sell up to a dozen a day; the staff is now slinging 30 or more a day and selling out daily.

Its been a godsend, Mr. Kerr said. Now every day we say, well, thank you to The Bear, thank you to The Bear.

The shop was name-checked last month on Late Night With Seth Meyers when Mr. Meyers and the actor Mr. White, who stars as Carmy in the series, took bites of its Italian beef sandwich. (A Late Night intern snagged the last two sandwiches before the shop sold out for the day, Mr. Kerr said.)
Headliner

Sandros

The chef Sandro Fioriti has owned a restaurant bearing his name in New York since 1985. Now, at 74, hes still tossing pasta, in a new location. He opened his first with the help of Tony May at 420 East 59th Street, previously occupied by the super-luxe Palace. (It is now Pino Luongos Morso.) Then, in 2006, after a few interim gigs, he opened his spot on the Upper East Side, at 306 East 81st Street. That restaurant closed in February, and he has relocated to East 86th Street, in the former Little Frog. Throughout he was noted for his cuisine, inspired by his native Umbria and Rome, where he trained, long before Roman food achieved its current prominence in New York. He is now joined by his son, Sandro Fioriti Jr., who runs the restaurant, with his father in the kitchen turning out his well-regarded spaghetti al limone, rigatoni amatriciana, cacio e pepe, fried artichokes and pollo cacciatora alla romana. The younger Mr. Fioriti, who has been involved for the past eight years, said that the menu was essentially the same as it was on 81st Street, and that the kitchen and dining room staff also made the move. There are 56 seats in a somewhat formal room with a big bar, white napery and white brick walls.

322 East 86th Street, 212-288-7374, sandrosrestaurant.com.

Opening

Ju Qi

Han Tong, who started this chain with a 16-table restaurant in Beijing in 2002, has grown it to more than 20 outlets, mostly in Beijing, with one in Sydney, Australia, and now, New York. The design is based on the humble Hutong neighborhoods of Beijing but with refined, even imperial touches. The vast menu includes braised pork tendon soup with scallions, fried tofu, sauteed shredded potatoes with lard dregs, cucumber salad, hairtail rolls, mashed potatoes in the shape of a hare, and also crowd-pleasers like sweet-and-sour spare ribs, kung pao chicken and hot-and-sour soup.

133-36 37th Avenue, #F10 and G17 (Prince Street), Flushing, Queens, 929-608-9797, juqiusa.com.

Leon 1909

With her father, Robert Mnuchin, a founder of the Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Conn., Valerie Mnuchin is opening this restaurant on Shelter Island. She named it for her grandfather Leon Mnuchin, who spent his summers in the area. A former bank building near the popular Crescent Beach, it now has a rustic elegance with exposed brick, wooden trusses, a lofty ceiling and a working wood-burning hearth. A pergola shelters the outdoor patio. The executive chef, Mason Lindahl, is looking to Provence and Italy for inspiration. Heirloom tomatoes with aioli, strozzapreti with tomato and basil, roast leg of lamb, and local striped bass dressed with Picholine olives, lemon and peperonata are all on the menu. (Opens Thursday)

29 West Neck Road (North Menantic Road), Shelter Island, N.Y., 631-749-9123, leon1909.com.
Issey Miyake, one of the first Japanese designers to show in Paris, whose pleated style of clothing allowed for freedom of movement and whose name became a global byword for cutting-edge fashion in the 1980s, died on Friday in Tokyo. He was 84.

His death, in a hospital, was announced on Tuesday by the Miyake Design Studio, which said the cause was liver cancer.

Mr. Miyakes designs appeared everywhere, from morning to night, from factory floors  he designed a uniform for workers at the Japanese electronics giant Sony  to black tie dances.
Every time I visit my mother-in-law, I become obsessed with worry about her. Shes in her 70s but has numerous health problems, including near-constant U.T.I.s and fatty liver disease. Despite that, she drinks almost every night. I dont know how much, because shes not very forthcoming, but a few years ago she was bedridden and asked my husband and me to buy her alcohol. She was drinking about two to three servings of hard liquor a night.

She has had multiple falls and car accidents as well as episodes that seem as if they may be related to dementia. Recently, for instance, she was driving so erratically on the highway that two people banded together to get her off the road. When they confronted her, she was so disoriented that they called an ambulance and the cops. Nothing was found medically wrong with her, and although she was slurring her words and unable to balance, the cop didnt smell alcohol on her, so he didnt give her any kind of test. He did call a relative who lived nearby, because he didnt think it was safe for her to drive. A few weeks later, she got into another accident, which, luckily, didnt involve anyone else. She doesnt seem to remember much about either of these incidents. She later found out she had a U.T.I. and blames it for her confusion.

My husband and I live in another city, but we came to visit her after hearing about these incidents. Since weve been here, his mother has seemed in fine mental and physical health, but she hasnt been honest about either of the driving accidents. And recently when she drove to pick us up, she seemed very drunk  talkative and off balance and slurring her words. My husband thinks its the effects of a current U.T.I. that shes not properly treating. Either way, she probably shouldnt have been driving, and I took over driving once she arrived.

My husband has a more patient approach of wanting to listen to his mother and gently nudge her toward more healthful choices. I get more exasperated and want to confront her about her drinking and how its affecting her health. After all her falls, she has had very hard recoveries in the hospital, and I cant help wondering if some of it is withdrawal symptoms. Should I respect my husbands wishes and let him handle it his way? Or should I push for confronting the elephant in the room and getting her the treatment she needs but doesnt want? Name Withheld

You refer to the treatment she needs, so let me stress that you cant be confident about what needs treating. Does she have a drinking problem? Has she been experiencing U.T.I.-induced delirium, hepatic or uremic encephalopathy, a series of mini-strokes? Is it the onset of a neurodegenerative disease, such as vascular dementia or Alzheimers? Is it some combination of these conditions? Another issue?

What you can be more confident about is that something is wrong with her, and that she shouldnt be driving. She should get a proper work-up to see if she has a neurological problem (which may or may not be connected with her fatty liver disease). Facing that possibility, like facing a drinking problem, can be harder than lurching from one crisis to another. You and your husband have to decide, together, what the most effective way is of getting to that goal. Point out to him that his mothers driving puts her and others in serious danger, and that this matter is too urgent to be dealt with just by gentle nudging.


Following a meeting with JD(U) MPs and MLAs today, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has decided to break off the alliance with the BJP, sources said. He has now sought an appointment with Bihar Governor Phagu Chauhan at 4 pm today. Lalu Yadavs RJD, the largest party in the Bihar assembly, also held a key meeting in which it has reportedly decided to join hands with the JD(U). Congress MLAs, too, attended the meeting and have taken the call to back Nitish Kumar as Bihar CM. Meanwhile, the BJP has also sought a meeting with the Governor, sources said. Stay with SaharaSamay for LIVE Updates:




But this year, a new City Council has signaled a more progressive approach toward criminal justice, and the bill already has the support of more than 30 of the 51 City Council members. In a housing plan released this year, Mayor Eric Adams said he would support a bill creating new anti-discrimination protections for New Yorkers with criminal justice histories.

Mr. Adamss deputy press secretary Charles Kretchmer Lutvak said in a statement: No one should be denied housing because they were once engaged with the criminal justice system, plain and simple.

An estimated 750,000 residents of New York City have a criminal conviction, according to the Fair Chance for Housing, a group that has advocated for the bills passage. A 2018 report from the Prison Policy Initiative, a nonprofit group that advocates for criminal justice reform, found that formerly incarcerated people are nearly 10 times more likely to be homeless than the general public.

The push in New York City comes as public officials have grappled with an uptick in homelessness after the worst of the pandemic, underscoring how the citys housing crisis has made it increasingly difficult to find an affordable home.

More than 50,000 people were staying in New York City shelters last week, according to a tally compiled by the news site City Limits, and Mr. Adams has made addressing homelessness a main focus of his first year in office.

Keith Powers, a councilman from Manhattan and one of the sponsors on the bill, said he hears daily from New Yorkers who are worried about homelessness and making housing more accessible. Right here we have a tool that can accomplish that, he said.
The mayor opposed a bill to reduce class sizes  approved by state lawmakers in June but not yet signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul  because he said the school system did not have the money to fund the limits and that many class sizes had already been reduced by lower enrollment.

Mr. Adams has called himself the future of the Democratic Party, but his approval rating in New York City has quickly dropped. Only 29 percent of New Yorkers rated his performance as good or excellent in the recent poll by NY1 and Siena College.

The mayor has focused on crime more than any other issue and argues that he is making progress. Murders and shootings are down this year, but major crimes are up by more than 35 percent.

His team has highlighted other achievements, including a new funding plan to improve public housing, rebounding tourism figures, universal dyslexia screenings for students and discount fares for poor and disabled ferry riders.

Still, the poll found that only 21 percent of New Yorkers thought that Mr. Adams was doing an excellent or good job at fighting crime, and 45 percent rated him as poor on that issue. He received higher grades on encouraging tourists to visit and on managing city services.
Violent language, including things like calling for war, normalizes violence and encourages people inclined toward it to be more violent, said Rachel Kleinfeld, a senior fellow in the democracy, conflict and governance program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

What we consider before using anonymous sources. How do the sources know the information? Whats their motivation for telling us? Have they proved reliable in the past? Can we corroborate the information? Even with these questions satisfied, The Times uses anonymous sources as a last resort. The reporter and at least one editor know the identity of the source. Learn more about our process.

After the search at Mar-a-Lago, the idea that things in the United States had become so dire as to necessitate violence was repeatedly uttered by a range of right-wing figures  among them, self-proclaimed extremists and former members of Mr. Trumps administration. In the 2016 election cycle, many of Mr. Trumps supporters had followed his lead in demanding that his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, be jailed for the practice of maintaining a private email server for government-related messages while she was secretary of state.

Country on the verge of CIVIL WAR??? Nicholas J. Fuentes, a prominent white nationalist, asked in a post advertising a livestream about the search.

Despite such heated rhetoric, there were no immediate reports of any violence or large-scale protests. But there were some indications that activists were planning demonstrations against the F.B.I.

A flier appeared online on Monday night calling for a protest against F.B.I. tyranny on Wednesday outside one of the bureaus field offices in California. The flier was posted by Toni Ringlein, a right-wing organizer and real-estate agent in Palm Springs, Calif., who marched on the Capitol on Jan. 6.

According to the website Mediaite, Ms. Ringlein attended the Conservative Political Action Conference last year, where she falsely claimed that the 2020 election had been stolen and that Joseph R. Biden Jr. would never, ever, ever be my president. In social media posts, she had referred to Mr. Biden as a traitor, saying he should be hanged.
Mr. Velasquezs arrest, which was first reported by Gothamist, was for disorderly conduct and failure to comply with the Parks Enforcement Patrol in providing an ID, not for swimming after hours, according to the parks department.

Unfortunately, due to noncompliance when an ID was requested, in this instance an arrest was warranted, Crystal Howard, a department spokeswoman, said.

When asked if the parks department had increased enforcement at Rockaway in recent years, she said that it had not, outside the addition of 10 officers in 2019 when a new beach was being constructed.

Mr. Velasquez said he initially refused to provide his identification, which he said he did not have with him in the water. But he said that after several parks department employees wrestled him to the ground and handcuffed him, he asked a friend to retrieve his ID but was told it was too late.

He also said he was unaware of signs prohibiting swimming on the beach, saying he only noticed them after officers removed a covering from one. As I was being escorted, they remove something covering the sign to point and show me it, and I had no idea that it existed, didnt see anything anywhere, he said.

For Janet Fash, who has worked as a chief lifeguard at Rockaway Beach for about 31 years, the arrest was unusual and kind of outrageous, she said.
Following his predecessors, President Barack Obama announced a string of weapon sales to Taiwan and embarked on his so-called pivot to Asia, which we regarded as an attempt to rally our Asian neighbors against us. President Donald Trump declared a destructive trade war against us, and Chinese citizens were as shocked as anyone when a pro-Trump mob stormed the citadel of American democracy on Jan. 6, 2021. The visit to Taiwan last week by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has only further disappointed many Chinese, who saw it as a violation of U.S. commitments on Taiwan.

Chinas critics in the United States need to realize that American actions such as these are causing outcomes in China that even the United States doesnt want.

Its no accident that Chinas military spending  a source of concern in Washington for years  began rising in the early 2000s after the Belgrade bombing and the plane collision. It quickly took off after the war in Iraq showcased how far ahead the U.S. military was compared with ours. Chinas past weakness had been calamitous: Western powers attacked and forced China to surrender territory in the 1800s, and Japans brutal invasion in the 20th century killed millions.

U.S. officials no doubt want China to follow the American path of liberalism. But in contrast to my university days, the tone of Chinese academic research on the United States has shifted markedly. Chinese government officials used to consult me on the benefits of American capital markets and other economic concepts. Now I am called upon to discuss U.S. cautionary tales, such as the factors that led to the financial crisis. We once sought to learn from U.S. successes; now we study its mistakes so that we can avoid them.

The sense of America as a dangerous force in the world has filtered into Chinese public attitudes as well. In 2020 I remarked on a Chinese television program that we still have much to learn from the United States  and was attacked on Chinese social media. I stick to my view but am now more careful in talking positively about the United States. When I do, I preface it with a criticism.
The Guatemalan media, with at least a dozen independent print, radio and digital outlets, has been a defiant defender of democratic values. So it seemed inevitable that after hollowing out Guatemalas justice system, Mr. Giammattei and Ms. Porras would set their sights on the countrys pugnacious free press.

Rafael Curruchiche, the chief of the Public Ministrys Office of the Special Prosecutor Against Impunity  who is also on the U.S. State Department list of corrupt officials, and is cited specifically for making spurious accusations against prosecutors and attorneys  told news outlets that Mr. Zamoras arrest is not related to his activity as a journalist, and that he is charged with money laundering and extortion.

Mr. Zamora says he is a political prisoner and the victim of an orchestrated case by the president and attorney general.

It is clear that Mr. Zamoras arrest is part of a broader government pattern of singling out and attacking journalists for their work. Last October, the home of the reporter Juan Bautista Xol was raided by soldiers and the police. In March, another prominent journalist, Juan Luis Font, fled the country amid accusations of money laundering.

A survey by the Guatemalan Press Association published this year found that since Mr. Giammattei took office in 2020 the government had carried out 350 attacks against the press. As of July at least five Guatemalan journalists have gone into exile in the wake of criminal charges similar to those brought against Mr. Zamora, while others are facing similar charges.

Since a C.I.A.-backed coup in 1954 ended Guatemalas only decade of democratic rule, the United States has intervened and meddled in the countrys politics and supported the military dictatorships that plunged the country into a three-decades-long internal war that devastated Guatemalan society. The country is among the most unequal in the world, despite having the regions largest economy. The Trump administrations complicity in CICIGs expulsion led to the dismantling of Guatemalas anti-corruption justice institutions, and to its slide into authoritarianism.
While judging harshly any failure in professional-class aspiration or H.R. compliance, progressive moralism judges neutral or hygienic many acts that Catholicism ranks among the mortal sins  such as missing Mass, divorcing ones spouse or seeking an abortion. This is its banality. Anna Khachiyan, Ms. Nekrasovas non-Catholic co-host on Red Scare, has defended traditional religion on the grounds that its supposed to introduce constraint into peoples lives. Ms. Nekrasova put it more simply: No hell, no dignity. My own embrace of Catholic moral teaching came about in college, when I saw how it had shaped the imagination of a great apostate, James Joyce. By comparison, my liberal moral formation offered nothing either to daunt or to inspire.

Anika Jade Levy (unrelated to Honor) is a New York co-editor of the literary magazine Forever. She recently told Flaunt magazine that she had been essentially raised by Satanists and began praying the rosary on an iPhone app as a form of youthful rebellion. She clarified to me that she was joking about her parents and that her introduction to Catholic art on a trip to Italy was moving and aesthetically formative. The rise of Catholicism reveals a cultural appetite for whatever is the opposite of what weve just had, she told me. But she regards the preference for stringency as mostly aesthetic and warns, I dont think anybody downtown is in a state of grace.

For reasons substantive or stylistic, it is possible to prefer a system in which our moral obligations are not exhausted by the avoidance of wrongthink on race and patriarchy. The scenesters of downtown Manhattan may simply find it less dreary to shame one another for fornication than for bearing privilege. And as the writer Nick Burns told me in an email, rosary beads are even paraphernalia of the underclass, a way to dispel accusations of privilege from the scenes fellow bourgeois. The affectation of religious imagery and faith may be nothing but a controlled use of class signifiers for the sake of political or aesthetic statement.

For those scenesters who have converted and are frequenting the sacraments, we should hesitate to reject their practice as inauthentic. Avant-garde cohorts can enrich Catholicisms cultural heritage and broaden its political imagination, as the Decadents did. The church has long embraced theatricality, and it welcomes converts with motives other than sheer religious zeal  for instance, those who wish to share the faith of a future spouse. Authentic internal conversion is not a Catholic demand but a Protestant one.

What Catholicism requires is adherence to disciplines and dogmas  a test of sincerity that applies in Dimes Square and beyond. In early July, after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, a rosary procession in NoLIta from Old St. Patricks Cathedral to the neighborhood Planned Parenthood (until 2020 named for Margaret Sanger) drew large crowds of rowdy counterprotesters. It was a reminder, an easy walk from Dimes Square, that the church runs afoul of the culture in every generation. Real-world events will confront young urban Catholics with the full implications of Catholic doctrine, making it hard to view the rosary as a fashion statement. Over time, these developments will sort the converts from the LARPers.
Throughout, Mr. Trump has not just seemed undaunted; he has held up the investigations as a point of pride  a sign that he and his followers are waging a righteous battle against a biased, corrupt law enforcement regime. Mr. Trump has already capitalized, sending a text to his supporters, linking to his donation page: The Radical Left is corrupt. Return the power to the people! Will you fight with me? Donate.

This attitude doesnt stop with Mr. Trump: In Colorado, Tina Peters, who served as a county clerk and thus the top local election official, has been charged with felonies and misdemeanors related to tampering with election equipment, and in multiple other states, officials have been investigated for similar possible offenses as investigators try to get to the bottom of efforts to allow partisan G.O.P. operatives to tamper with voting systems in 2020.

None of these investigations seem to give pause to the Republican leadership or its committed base. To the contrary, brazen lawbreaking is now a political asset for G.O.P. candidates and operatives. Several people involved in Jan. 6 are running for office and winning G.O.P. primaries  with Mr. Trumps blessing  flaunting their participation in the violent putsch.

As of last January, at least 57 people who went to the rally, gathered on the Capitol steps or violently invaded that building were campaigning for office around the country, according to Politico. And at least three of them have been charged with crimes relating to the riot. Does this hinder their campaigns? Not in the least. For example, Ryan Kelley, a Republican who unsuccessfully ran for governor of Michigan, told Politico, As I travel around the state, Im an insurrectionist to some people. But, he went on, you know, to other people, its like, Thats why Im voting for you. Because you walk the walk and you were out there fighting for us.

Last week election deniers prevailed in several G.O.P. primaries. In Arizona a former news anchor, Kari Lake, who won the Republican nomination for governor, told reporters that there was fraud even in that race and told her supporters that they rose up and voted like their lives depended on it.

And in Michigan, a Republican activist suspected of involvement in a scheme to undermine the results of the 2020 election, Matthew DePerno, is on track to clinch the Republican nomination for state attorney general. (In early 2021 election officials reportedly handed over voting machines to him and other Republican activists trying to substantiate claims of fraud in the election.) Mr. DePernos candidacy, like Ms. Lakes, has been endorsed by Mr. Trump.
OPINION

A column on Monday about the defamation case against Alex Jones incompletely described a data file several hundred gigabytes in size that his lawyers sent a lawyer for the plaintiffs. It contained some of Mr. Joness cellphone records and other data, not only his cellphone records.

OBITUARIES

An obituary on Aug. 1 about Fidel V. Ramos, a former president of the Philippines, misstated the date in 1986 when he publicly broke with the dictatorship of Ferdinand E. Marcos. It was Feb. 22, not Nov. 22. The obituary also misstated the position of Corazon C. Aquino, Mr. Ramoss predecessor, on his campaign for president. Ms. Aquino endorsed Mr. Ramos; it was not the case that she did not endorse him.

An obituary on July 24 about the singer and actress Shonka Dukureh, who played Big Mama Thornton in the movie Elvis, misstated the year Elvis Presleys version of Hound Dog, a song first recorded by Ms. Thornton, was released. It was 1956, not 1953.

An obituary on Aug. 1 about Nichelle Nichols, the actress best known for playing Lieutenant Uhura on Star Trek, misspelled the surname of one of the astronauts NASA said were inspired to join the American space program by Ms. Nicholss role. She was Judith Resnik, not Resnick.
Hair can be fussy, uncooperative, moody. When it does not bend, curl or sit on command, it can be frustrating. Hair can be a handful, a time suck, a money pit, a drag. Perhaps no one knows this better than Black women.

Enter, stage left: braids.

And not just any braids. Many Black women are going with a style that has been gaining in popularity: so-called knotless braids, which differ significantly from traditional box braids.

In the old style  notably worn by Janet Jackson in the 1993 film Poetic Justice, which helped enshrine the style in American beauty culture  the hair is parted into discrete sections, and strands of synthetic hair are knotted at the roots. Hair stylists who create knotless braids also start by dividing the hair into separate sections, but then comes a change in the process: They braid an inch and a half or more of the natural hair itself, and then they feed the synthetic strands bit by bit into the newly created braid.
One thing the Charlot House shares with Wimberlys other buildings is a dramatic reveal. A long driveway leads to a stately front door  a slab of plain wood framed by a white plaster wall inlaid with one of Charlots own tile murals  that opens into a deceptively cavernous house. On the first floor, a low ceiling, just seven feet high, demarcates a passageway between the living and dining rooms that divides the house into mauka and makai spaces, or rooms that deliberately face the mountains or the sea, respectively, adding a localized sense of order and dynamism. You always felt like you were heading to a destination, says John, recalling his childhood. There was movement and cosmic space at play.

A social couple, Charlot and his wife often entertained other artists who were either visiting or living on the island. They filled their walls with art by their friends  Max Ernst, Carlos Merida, Madge Tennent, Jose Clemente Orozco and Tseng Yuho, among others  in addition to Charlots own. His work was visible in an upstairs studio, as well, where he pinned sketches to its wraparound cork wall of the two dozen Hawaiian murals he would go on to complete for local institutions such as the Waikiki branch of First Hawaiian Bank and the United Public Workers union headquarters in Honolulu. In recent years, the studio was used by an architecture graduate student who was also the homes live-in caretaker  in 2001, the Charlot House was gifted by the family to the university, which worked with local preservationists to ensure it cant ever be demolished or significantly altered. In June, the house was returned to the artists family, who remain committed to safeguarding its cultural status.
At the height of summer  peak bird season  Soleimani might have over 20 birds a day left by strangers on the porch of her black 19th-century Victorian home with cerulean trim. (The most that have been dropped off on a given day is 29, she says.) She also runs a studio out of her house, where she makes photo collages with hyper-saturated color and grimly satirical takes on geopolitics.

I layer things and I construct things, and I do that to obfuscate and confuse, to make people spend time unraveling or taking apart the work, says Soleimani. There are a lot of languages and codes that might not be visible to the viewer, but I dont think they have to be.

She spends much of her time here moving between the clinic, taking in and feeding the birds, and the studio, which is in a garage behind the house. Her recent project, the Ghostwriter series, part of which is on view at Providence College Galleries, aims to work out the relationship between the two most important care-taking practices in my life: my work as a wild animal rehabilitator and my work as an artist, explains Soleimani.
In an earnings call on Tuesday, Brian Armstrong, Coinbases chief executive, emphasized the cyclical nature of crypto and pointed out that the company had survived previous downturns.

It seems scary, he said. But its never as bad as it seems.

The results illustrated the stark challenges facing Coinbase at a turbulent moment for the crypto industry. The prices of the leading digital currencies crashed in May and June as a series of experimental crypto ventures collapsed, plunging investors into financial ruin. The crash has led to layoffs across the industry, dampening the excitement that surged last fall when the price of Bitcoin reached a record high.

As part of the industry meltdown, Coinbases stock price has fallen about 75 percent since November. The companys success is largely tied to the fluctuations of the broader crypto market. In the second quarter, more than 80 percent of its revenue came from trading fees it charged customers to buy and sell digital assets like Bitcoin and Ether.

In June, Coinbase laid off 18 percent of its staff, or about 1,100 employees. Mr. Armstrong said at the time that the company had over-hired.
The surprising thing about Flightradar to me is that it triggers my imagination, Dibble told me. What are people up there on that plane doing? Are they on vacation? On business?

Peering at aircraft icons in the app, Dibble feels excited for tourists she imagines on the flight departing a nearby airport for Lisbon. She empathizes with parents when she sees the virtual image of an emergency helicopter on its way to a local childrens hospital.

There are all these stories here, she said.

Not long ago, the app showed that a small plane flying low near her home had taken off close to a Central Intelligence Agency training base. Dibble, her husband and daughter dreamed up scenarios of a Russian oligarch being whisked away in handcuffs.

Flight-tracking sites are another example of a technology that makes obscure information accessible and relevant for us mere mortals and helps connect us to others. Its pretty amazing that we can Google whatever were curious about or video chat with friends far away. Following flights on the other side of the world is another marvel.
SAN FRANCISCO  Snapchat, the ephemeral messaging app, introduced its first parental controls on Tuesday, as social media platforms face increasing scrutiny for exposing young users to potentially harmful content.

Snap, Snapchats parent company, said in a blog post that its new tools would let parents see whom their teenagers were friends with on the app and whom they had communicated with in the previous seven days. Parents will also be able to report accounts that their children are friends with if they violate Snapchats policies. Parents will not be able to see their childrens conversations on the app.

To gain access to the controls, people have to create Snapchat accounts and be friends with their children, who have to agree to the controls. The company said it would introduce additional features later, including one that lets parents see whom their children recently became friends with. Teenagers will also be able to notify their parents if they report accounts or content.
SAN FRANCISCO  A former Twitter employee was convicted on Tuesday by a jury in federal court of six charges related to accusations that he spied on the companys users for Saudi Arabia.

While at Twitter, Ahmad Abouammo, 44, managed media partnerships in the Middle East and North Africa. He developed relationships with prominent individuals in the region, receiving hundreds of thousands of dollars and a luxury watch from a top adviser to Saudi Arabias crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman. In return, prosecutors said, he shared the personal user information of dissidents with Saudi officials.

The jury convicted Mr. Abouammo of two counts of wire fraud or conspiracy to commit wire fraud, two counts of money laundering, one count of falsifying records and one count of acting as an agent of a foreign government without properly disclosing that work. It found Mr. Abouammo not guilty on five counts of wire fraud or conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
ALBUQUERQUE  For days, the news that someone might be killing Muslim men in Albuquerque spread fear among the citys Muslim residents, some of whom were so afraid of becoming the next target that they fled town or hunkered down in their homes.

On Tuesday, the police said they had arrested a man who was himself Muslim and who may have targeted at least two of the victims because he was angry that his daughter had married a man from the other major branch of Islam.

The police said the man, Muhammad Syed, 51, would be charged in two of the killings and that he was a suspect in the other two deaths.
NASHVILLE  A grand jury in Mississippi examining the case of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old Black boy whose abduction and killing more than six decades ago became a galvanizing force for the civil rights movement, has declined to indict the white woman whose accusations prompted the attack, prosecutors said on Tuesday.

Jurors in Leflore County in the Mississippi Delta, where Emmett had traveled from Chicago in the summer of 1955, heard more than seven hours of testimony from investigators and witnesses with direct knowledge of the case. Still, prosecutors said, the panel did not find sufficient evidence to indict the woman, Carolyn Bryant Donham, on charges of kidnapping or manslaughter.

After hearing every aspect of the investigation and evidence collected regarding Donhams involvement, the grand jury returned a no bill to the charges of both kidnapping and manslaughter, the office of W. Dewayne Richardson, the district attorney for the Fourth Circuit Court District of Mississippi, said Tuesday.
The New York Young Republican Club issued a statement condemning the continued persecution of Mr. Trump by totalitarian Democrats, adding that action beyond merely voting out the former presidents enemies was required.

Internationalist forces and their allies intent on undermining the foundation of our Republic have crossed the Rubicon, the statement concluded, and it is the express belief of the New York Young Republican Club that, should justice not be carried out swiftly on these matters by ALL our elected officials and leaders, nothing less than the future of the Union in on the line.

Despite such rhetoric, there were no immediate reports of any violence or even large-scale protests. But there were some indications that activists were planning demonstrations against the F.B.I.

A flier appeared online on Monday night calling for a protest against F.B.I. tyranny on Wednesday outside one of the bureaus field offices in California. The flier was posted by Toni Ringlein, a right-wing organizer and real-estate agent in Palm Springs, Calif., who marched on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

In previous social media posts, Ms. Ringlein referred to President Biden as a traitor, saying he should be hanged.

The idea that a civil war was drawing near was prevalent in right-wing circles in the days leading up to the Capitol attack. Extremist leaders like Stewart Rhodes, the founder of the Oath Keepers, and Enrique Tarrio, the chairman of the Proud Boys, often rallied their groups with incendiary references to the cleansing violence of the American Revolution.
The Hamilton team was further troubled by a sermon at the end of the churchs production in which a man said that God could help people with their struggles, listing homosexuality alongside broken marriages, drugs and alcohol. Mr. Brown said that Hamilton officials were not aware of the lyric changes or the sermon when they allowed Saturdays show to go forward.

The staging of the unauthorized performance at the church was reported by OnStage Blog.

After the church responded to the cease-and-desist letter, the Hamilton team said it could move forward with another performance on the condition that it not be live-streamed or recorded, that videos and photos of the production would not be posted and that the church would not mount any further productions, Mr. Brown said. He added that this limited permission had been offered without prejudice.

The Hamilton team would discuss this unauthorized production in the coming days with the parties involved after vetting information about it, Mr. Brown said.

The Hamilton family stands for tolerance, compassion, inclusivity and certainly L.G.B.T.Q.+ rights, Mr. Brown said. We are in the process of reviewing the unauthorized changes made to the script to determine further action.
Scientific advances are not always linear; they zigzag in unexpected ways. This is particularly true of genetics, which has a dark history of being coopted into eugenics and race science.

by Prabir Purkayastha

In July, the world celebrated 200 years since the birth of Gregor Mendel, who is widely accepted as the father of modern genetics for his discovery of the laws of inheritance. His experiments with peas, published in 1866 under the title Experiments in Plant Hybridization, identified dominant and recessive traits and how recessive traits would reappear in future generations and in what proportion. His work would largely remain unacknowledged and ignored until three other biologists replicated his work in 1900.

While Mendels work is central to modern genetics, and his use of experimental methods and observation is a model for science, it also set off the dark side with which genetics has been inextricably linked: eugenics and racism. But eugenics was much more than race science. It was also used to argue the superiority of the elite and dominant races, and in countries like India, it was used as a scientific justification for the caste system as well.

People who believe that eugenics was a temporary aberration in science and that it died with Nazi Germany would be shocked to find out that even the major institutions and journals that included the word eugenics as part of their names have continued to operate by just changing their titles. The Annals of Eugenics became the Annals of Human Genetics; the Eugenics Review changed its name to the Journal of Biosocial Science; Eugenics Quarterly changed to Biodemography and Social Biology; and the Eugenics Society was renamed the Galton Institute. Several departments in major universities, which were earlier called the department of eugenics, either became the department of human genetics or the department of social biology.

All of them have apparently shed their eugenics past, but the reoccurrence of the race and IQ debate, sociobiology, the white replacement theory and the rise of white nationalism are all markers that theories of eugenics are very much alive. In India, the race theory takes the form of the belief that Aryans are superior and fair skin is seen as a marker of Aryan ancestry.

While Adolf Hitlers gas chambers and Nazi Germanys genocide of Jews and Roma communities have made it difficult to talk about the racial superiority of certain races, scientific racism persists within science. It is a part of the justification that the elite seek, justifying their superior position based on their genes, and not on the fact that they inherited or stole this wealth. It is a way to airbrush the history of the loot, slavery and genocide that accompanied the colonization of the world by a handful of countries in Western Europe.

Why is it that when we talk about genetics and history, the only story that is repeated is that about biologist Trofim Lysenko and how the Soviet Communist Party placed ideology above science? Why is it that the mention of eugenics in popular literature is only with respect to Nazi Germany and not about how Germanys eugenic laws were inspired directly by the U.S.? Or how eugenics in Germany and the U.S. were deeply intertwined? Or how Mendels legacy of genetics become a tool in the hands of racist states, which included the U.S. and Great Britain? Why is it that genetics is used repeatedly to support theories of superiority of the white race?

Mendel showed that there were traits that were inherited, and therefore we had genes that carried certain markers that could be measured, such as the color of the flower and the height of the plant. Biology then had no idea of how many genes we had, which traits could be inherited, how genetically mixed the human population is, etc. Mendel himself had no idea about genes as carriers of inheritance, and this knowledge became known much later.

From genetics to society, the application of these principles was a huge leap that was not supported by any empirical scientific evidence. All attempts to show the superiority of certain races started with a priori assuming that certain races were superior and then trying to find what evidence to choose from that would help support this thesis. Much of the IQ debate and sociobiology came from this approach to science. In his review of The Bell Curve, Bob Herbert wrote that the authors, Charles Murray and Richard Herrnstein, had written a piece of racial pornography, to drape the cloak of respectability over the obscene and long-discredited views of the worlds most rabid racists.

A little bit of the history of science is important here. Eugenics was very much mainstream in the early 20th century and had the support of major parties and political figures in the UK and the U.S. Not surprisingly, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill was a noted supporter of race science, although eugenics had some supporters among progressives as well.

The founder of eugenics in Great Britain was Francis Galton, who was a cousin of Charles Darwin. Galton pioneered statistical methods like regression and normal distribution, as did his close collaborators and successors in the Eugenics Society, Karl Pearson and R.A. Fisher. On the connection of race and science, Aubrey Clayton, in an essay in Nautilus, writes, What we now understand as statistics comes largely from the work of Galton, Pearson, and Fisher, whose names appear in bread-and-butter terms like Pearson correlation coefficient and Fisher information. In particular, the beleaguered concept of statistical significance, for decades the measure of whether empirical research is publication-worthy, can be traced directly to the trio.

It was Galton who, based supposedly on scientific evidence, argued for the superiority of the British over Africans and other natives, and that superior races should replace inferior races by way of selective breeding. Pearson gave his justification for genocide: History shows me one way, and one way only, in which a high state of civilization has been produced, namely the struggle of race with race, and the survival of the physically and mentally fitter race.

The eugenics program had two sides: one was that the state should try to encourage selective breeding to improve the stock of the population. The other was for the state should take active steps to weed out undesirable populations. The sterilization of undesirables was as much a part of the eugenics societies as encouraging people toward selective breeding.

In the U.S., eugenics was centered on Cold Spring Harbors Eugenics Record Office. While Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and its research publications still hold an important place in contemporary life sciences, its original significance came from the Eugenics Record Office, which operated as the intellectual center of eugenics and race science. It was supported by philanthropic money from the Rockefeller family, the Carnegie Institution and many others. Charles Davenport, a Harvard biologist, and his associate Harry Laughlin became the key figures in passing a set of state laws in the U.S. that led to forced sterilization of the unfit population. They also actively contributed to the Immigration Act of 1924, which set quotas for races. The Nordic races had priority, while East Europeans (Slavic races), East Asians, Arabs, Africans and Jews were virtually barred from entering the country.

Sterilization laws in the U.S. at the time were controlled by the states. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, the doyen of liberal jurisprudence in the U.S., gave his infamous judgment in Virginia on justifying compulsory sterilization, Three generations of imbeciles are enough, he ruled in Buck v. Bell. Carrie Buck and her daughter were not imbeciles; they paid for their sins of being poor and perceived as threats to society (a society that failed them in turn). Again, Eugenics Research Office and Laughlin played an important role in providing scientific evidence for the sterilization of the unfit.

While Nazi Germanys race laws are widely condemned as being the basis for Hitlers gas chambers, Hitler himself stated that his inspiration for Germanys race laws was the U.S. laws on sterilization and immigration. The close links between the U.S. eugenicists and Nazi Germany are widely known and recorded. Edwin Blacks book War Against the Weak: Eugenics and Americas Campaign to Create a Master Race described how Adolf Hitlers race hatred was underpinned by the work of American eugenicists, according to an article in the Guardian in 2004. The University of Heidelberg, meanwhile, gave Laughlin an honorary degree for his work in the science of racial cleansing.

With the fall of Nazi Germany, eugenics became discredited. This resulted in institutions, departments and journals that had any affiliation to eugenics by name being renamed, but they continued to do the same work. Human genetics and social biology became the new names for eugenics. The Bell Curve was published in the 1990s justifying racism, and a recent bestseller by Nicholas Wade, a former science correspondent of the New York Times, also trot out theories that have long been scientifically discarded. Fifty years back, Richard Lewontin had shown that only about 6 to 7 percent of human genetic variation exists between so-called racial groups. At that time, genetics was still at a nascent stage. Later, data has only strengthened Lewontins research.

Why is it that while criticizing the Soviet Unions scientific research and the sins of Lysenko 80 years back, we forget about race science and its use of genetics?

The answer is simple: Attacking the scientific principles and theories developed by the Soviet Union as an example of ideology trumping science is easy. It makes Lysenko the norm for Soviet science of ideology trumping pure science. But why is eugenics, with its destructive past and its continuing presence in Europe and the U.S., not recognized as an ideologyone that has persisted for more than 100 years and that continues to thrive under the modern garb of an IQ debate or sociobiology?

The reason is that it allows racism a place within science: changing the name from eugenics to sociobiology makes it appear as a respectable science. The power of ideology is not in the ideas but in the structure of our society, where the rich and the powerful need justification for their position. That is why race science as an ideology is a natural corollary of capitalism and groups like the G7, the club of the rich countries who want to create a rule-based international order. Race science as sociobiology is a more genteel justification than eugenics for the rule of capital at home and ex-colonial and settler-colonial states abroad. The fight for science in genetics has to be fought both within and outside science as the two are closely connected.

This article was produced in partnership by Newsclick and Globetrotter.

Prabir Purkayastha is the founding editor of Newsclick.in, a digital media platform. He is an activist for science and the free software movement.
Connecticut might be known as a campaign fund-raising powerhouse that rarely deviates from electing Democrats statewide, but even its primary on Tuesday is drawing the attention of former President Donald J. Trump.

Mr. Trump made a late endorsement in the Republican Senate primary race. Its winner will challenge Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat on whom the former president has aimed his attention.

The three-way Republican contest is not the only competitive race on the ballot.

Here is a refresher on the rules for voting and whats at stake.
Such a breakthrough would provide Mr. Biden with a foreign policy achievement as he heads into midterm elections in the fall, though some European officials say the American president may be wary of political criticism over renewing an Obama-era agreement that Republicans almost uniformly denounce and that even some key Democrats opposed in its original form.

Another factor is a fresh Iranian demand that the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N. nuclear watchdog, drop a three-year investigation into unexplained man-made uranium at various Iranian research sites, including some that Tehran refuses to let I.A.E.A. inspectors visit. Iran vehemently denied that it had military intentions for enriched uranium.

This is their style: moving toward an agreement but at the moment of agreement saying, Theres just one more thing, Mr. Cirincione said.

The agency identified traces of uranium particles based on information uncovered in 2018, when Israeli agents stole thousands of documents and CDs about Irans nuclear program from a Tehran warehouse.

What we consider before using anonymous sources. How do the sources know the information? Whats their motivation for telling us? Have they proved reliable in the past? Can we corroborate the information? Even with these questions satisfied, The Times uses anonymous sources as a last resort. The reporter and at least one editor know the identity of the source. Learn more about our process.

The stolen documents indicated that Iran had a military nuclear program until at least 2003, when the United States believes it ended. Israel remains unconvinced that it was shut down.

Iran has made dropping the investigation key to its approval of the nuclear deal, even though the I.A.E.A. is not a signatory to it and was not engaged in the negotiations.
WASHINGTON  The F.B.I. search of former President Donald J. Trumps residence in Florida has raised the question of whether the criminal investigation could lead to legally blocking him from becoming president again, even if he decides to run in the 2024 election.

Any conviction under one particular criminal law that appears to relate to the investigation includes an unusual penalty: disqualification from holding any federal office. But there is reason for caution before concluding that if Mr. Trump were to be charged and convicted under that law, he could not legally return to the White House even if voters wanted him to.

Here is a closer look at the case, starting with the basics.

What motivated the search warrant?

The Justice Department has declined to comment. But by its nature, the warrant means a criminal investigation is underway. Early reports citing sources familiar with the matter have indicated that the criminal investigation behind the search warrant relates to suspicions that Mr. Trump unlawfully took government files with him when he left the White House.
The taxes case is rooted in Mr. Trumps decision  first as a presidential candidate in the 2016 election and then in office  to break with modern precedent by refusing to make his tax returns public.

When Democrats won control of the House in 2018, they began trying to investigate his finances using congressional oversight powers. Mr. Trumps former lawyer, Michael D. Cohen, testified that the president had boasted about inflating the value of assets when it served him and undervaluing them when it helped to lower his taxes.

But Mr. Trump pursued a strategy of using the slow pace of litigation to run out the clock on congressional oversight efforts. His administrations Treasury Department refused to comply with the request, and the House filed a lawsuit seeking to enforce it in early July 2019. But the judge to which it was assigned  Trevor N. McFadden of the Federal District Court for the District of Columbia, whom Mr. Trump appointed in 2017  was slow to make any ruling.

The stagnant case was reinvigorated after Mr. Trump left office last year. Representative Richard E. Neal of Massachusetts, the top Democrat on the Ways and Means Committee, issued a new request for the former presidents tax returns from 2015 to 2020. The Biden administration issued a Justice Department memorandum saying the panel was entitled to receive them.
Vermonters head to the polls Tuesday to choose nominees for the states lone House seat as well as the Senate seat being vacated by Senator Patrick Leahy, a Democrat who is retiring.

Not registered to vote? No problem. Thanks to Vermonts same-day voter registration laws, adults who live in the state can still cast ballots in Tuesdays primaries.

Heres what to know:

How to vote

If you need to take advantage of same-day registration, do it in person  either at your polling location, or during normal business hours at town clerks offices. Online registrations may not be processed in time for voting on Election Day.
Most of the attention on Tuesday will be focused on Wisconsin, a battleground state where Republican voters are deciding who will challenge Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, in a primary that has become another proxy battle between former President Donald J. Trump and his former vice president, Mike Pence.

Polls close in Wisconsin at 9 p.m. Eastern time. While it is hard to predict when we might get returns on election night, there are factors that can give us clues: How much of the vote is expected by mail, what rules the state has about when ballots can be counted and, of course, how close a race is.

The Republican primary for governor has been a close one, with Tim Michels and Rebecca Kleefisch leading in a race where a central campaign issue has been the false notion that Mr. Trumps 2020 defeat can be decertified.
Tim Michels, a Wisconsin native who inherited an infrastructure company from his father and was endorsed by former President Donald J. Trump, won Wisconsins Republican primary for governor.

Republican primary voters upended their partys establishment in Wisconsin on Tuesday, choosing a Trump-backed candidate for governor who has entertained overturning the 2020 election results to take on Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, in one of the countrys most consequential November contests.

Tim Michels, a wealthy construction magnate endorsed by former President Donald J. Trump, defeated former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who had support from former Gov. Scott Walker, former Vice President Mike Pence and dozens of state legislators, as well as the states largest business organizations.

And Mr. Trumps followers gave a serious scare to the powerful Republican speaker of the State Assembly, Robin Vos. In recent weeks, Mr. Vos had become the former presidents chief antagonist among Wisconsin Republicans because he refused to indulge Mr. Trumps false claims that the 2020 results can still be decertified.

Mr. Vos inched past a far-right challenger and political neophyte who was desperately short on money but was buoyed by a Trump endorsement just a week before the primary.

Mr. Michels won by predicating his entire campaign on his support from Mr. Trump, highlighting that distinction in nearly all of his millions of dollars of self-funded television advertising and reminding voters about it during campaign stops and debates.

Id like to thank President Trump for his support, for his endorsement, Mr. Michels said in victory remarks at his campaign headquarters in Waukesha, Wis. It was a tremendous validation of our meteoric rise in this campaign. He knows that we need new leadership and he sees a lot of similarities.

During the primary, Mr. Michels, 60, subscribed to some of Mr. Trumps most outlandish conspiracy theories about the 2020 election. He pledged to consider signing legislation that would overturn Mr. Trumps defeat to Joseph R. Biden Jr. in Wisconsin and withdraw the states 10 electoral votes  a move that has no basis in state or federal law.

But on Tuesday night, Mr. Michels did not mention the 2020 election or the states voting laws  an issue that just last week he said he was very, very fired up about.

Mr. Michels has projected a tough-on-crime stance, pledging to fire the Democratic district attorney in Milwaukee, hire more police officers and increase prison sentences for gun-related crimes. He also opposes abortion, which is now illegal in Wisconsin under an 1849 law and is likely to remain that way under the Republican-controlled Legislature.

Now Mr. Michels will take on Mr. Evers, who has cast himself as a defender of fair elections and has vetoed more than a dozen bills passed by Legislature that would have restricted voting.

Mr. Michels has proposed replacing the bipartisan Wisconsin Elections Commission with a body made up of one member from each of the states gerrymandered congressional districts  a way for Republicans to maintain control of the states election apparatus for at least the next decade.

Mr. Evers has shattered fund-raising records in Wisconsin, raising more than $10 million through July despite worries among Democrats that he does not generate enough excitement among the partys base. Mr. Michels has spent more than $8 million of his own money since joining the race in April, and he is likely to invest even more in the general election.

Image Assembly Speaker Robin Vos faced a tougher than expected challenge from a political newcomer endorsed by Mr. Trump. Credit... Mark Hoffman / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel via Reuters Connect

While Mr. Michels prevailed, Mr. Trump ultimately failed to displace Mr. Vos, who has been in the Legislature since 2005 and served as speaker since 2013, wielding more influence than any other Republican in the state in recent years.

After pressuring Mr. Vos over the 2020 election in public and private for months, last week Mr. Trump endorsed his long-shot challenger, Adam Steen. A small-time real estate investor, Mr. Steen had no paid staff and barely raised enough money to print and mail campaign literature.

The race was far closer than Wisconsin analysts had expected, with Mr. Steen appearing to come within several hundred votes of toppling Mr. Vos, a testament to the power of the Trump endorsement and the enduring false belief that the 2020 election can still be rolled back.

Over the last year, Mr. Vos tried entertaining Mr. Trumps wildest conspiracy theories about the 2020 election without completely giving in to the lies. When the former president demanded last summer that the state review its election results, Mr. Vos instead appointed a former Wisconsin Supreme Court justice, Michael Gableman, to pursue a state-funded investigation of his own.

The Gableman investigation served as an albatross for Mr. Vos when Mr. Gableman, in March, falsely suggested that state legislators could decertify the 2020 election. Mr. Vos resisted the proposal, including in multiple conversations with the former president.

A week ago, Mr. Trump endorsed Mr. Steen, who by that point had raised less than $40,000, barely enough to print and mail campaign literature to his district in western Racine County. Last weekend, Mr. Gableman turned on his political patron and joined Mr. Trump in endorsing Mr. Steen.

Mr. Vos, at his victory party, called Mr. Gableman an embarrassment to the state and said he would review the status of the former justices ongoing investigation next week.

The primaries on Tuesday in Wisconsin and three other states  Minnesota, Connecticut and Vermont  came a day after the F.B.I. conducted a search of Mr. Trumps home in Florida, setting off fury from Republicans nationwide. Mr. Michels called the search a political witch hunt, while Ms. Kleefisch said it was shocking and unprecedented.

On the Democratic side in Wisconsin, the party settled its most consequential primary two weeks ago, when three leading candidates dropped out and endorsed Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes in the contest to face Senator Ron Johnson, a two-term Republican.

Image Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes won the Democratic nomination for Senate in Wisconsin after consolidating support in the final weeks of the primary. Credit... Scott Olson/Getty Images

The Barnes-Johnson matchup is expected to be one of the nations hardest-fought Senate races. Mr. Johnson, the only incumbent Republican senator running in a state Mr. Biden carried in 2020, is a top target of Democrats who point to his role as a leading amplifier of misinformation about the pandemic and American elections.

In Minnesotas race for governor, Republicans nominated Dr. Scott Jensen, a former state senator who rose to prominence by opposing pandemic mitigation efforts. His campaign may test the appetite for anti-abortion politics in Democratic states. His running mate, Matt Birk, a former professional football player, is one of Minnesotas most prominent proponents of restricting abortion rights.

Representative Ilhan Omar, one of the leading progressives in the House, narrowly survived a Democratic primary challenge to her Minneapolis seat from Don Samuels, a former Minneapolis City Council member backed by several local mayors who have been at odds with Ms. Omar since she was first elected in 2018.

Voters in southern Minnesota chose Brad Finstad, a former Agriculture Department official in the Trump administration, to fill an open House seat vacated by the February death of Representative Jim Hagedorn, a Republican.

Mr. Finstad, a Republican, defeated Jeff Ettinger, a Democrat and former chief executive of Hormel Foods who largely self-funded his campaign.

In Vermont, Democrats chose Becca Balint, a state senator backed by Senator Bernie Sanders, to fill the states lone House seat. Ms. Balint defeated Lt. Gov. Molly Gray, who was endorsed by Senator Patrick Leahy.

Image Becca Balint, who was backed by Senator Bernie Sanders, won the Democratic primary for Vermonts lone House seat. Credit... Hilary Swift for The New York Times

The House seat was open because of Mr. Leahys retirement after eight terms. Representative Peter Welch gave it up to replace the senator, and coasted to victory in the Senate primary.

Ms. Balint, the president of the Vermont Senate, has presented herself a progressive fighter in Mr. Sanderss image. Ms. Gray campaigned as a liberal conciliator, more willing to work among the moderate figures in her party.

And in Connecticuts Republican primary for Senate, voters chose Leora Levy, a Cuban-born Republican National Committee member who was endorsed by Mr. Trump. She defeated Themis Klarides, a former minority leader of the Connecticut House who was backed by party moderates.

But Ms. Levy is not expected to mount a competitive challenge to Senator Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat seeking his third term.

Image Leora Levy, a Republican candidate for Senate in Connecticut, won her primary race but faces an uphill battle in the general election against Senator Richard Blumenthal. Credit... Anthony Quinn/WTNH TV, via Associated Press

When Ms. Kleefisch announced her bid for governor of Wisconsin in September 2021, she promoted herself as the inheritor of the legacy of Mr. Walker  with whom she served before Mr. Evers ousted them in 2018  and gathered endorsements from national Republicans like Mr. Pence and Senator Ted Cruz of Texas.

But she failed to consolidate support from Mr. Trumps most devoted supporters, who searched for an alternative candidate for months.

Then, in April, Mr. Michels entered the race. Soon after  in a relationship brokered by Reince Priebus, Mr. Trumps Wisconsin-born former chief of staff  the former president endorsed Mr. Michels, whose fortune stems from a construction company he and his brothers inherited from their father that had a contract to help construct the Keystone XL pipeline before it was canceled by Mr. Biden.

Mr. Michels, who was the 2004 Republican nominee for Senate in Wisconsin, has spent much of the time since then living in New York and Connecticut, where he owns a $17 million estate and his children attended school. Mr. Michels continued to maintain a Wisconsin residence and has voted regularly in the state, though he skipped the 2016 presidential primary, when Mr. Trump was first on the ballot.

From the start, choosing Mr. Michels was rooted in Mr. Trumps grievance about his 2020 loss in Wisconsin.

When Mr. Michels met with Mr. Trump at his Florida estate, the former president discussed tweets of photos that showed Ms. Kleefischs then-16-year-old daughter going to a high school homecoming dance with the son of Brian Hagedorn, a Wisconsin Supreme Court justice. Mr. Trump and his Wisconsin supporters hold a grudge against Justice Hagedorn because he cast the deciding vote in rejecting Mr. Trumps legal efforts to overturn the election results in December 2020.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel first reported on Mr. Trumps interest in the photos.

While Mr. Michels never fully endorsed Mr. Trumps futile obsession with decertifying the 2020 results, he toyed with the prospect enough to allow voters to believe that he would try. In the final week before Tuesdays primary, Mr. Michels said he would consider signing legislation to claw back Wisconsins 10 electoral votes  something for which there is no legal mechanism.

Ms. Kleefisch has said repeatedly that it is impossible to undo the election.
More than 175 years after his death, a man named John Voorhees may finally have a proper burial.

Mr. Voorhees died of consumption, or tuberculosis, at a Philadelphia hospital for the poor in 1846, when he was 35 years old. But, after his death and without his consent or knowledge, his remains ended up in the hands of Samuel George Morton, a 19th-century physician and anatomist known for his influential racist theories on intellect.

Mr. Voorhees is one of 13 Black Philadelphians whose skulls were part of Mr. Mortons collection. Come fall, the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, known as the Penn Museum, is hoping to give them a traditional burial ceremony that it said was long overdue. Students had for years called for the remains to be returned to descendants.

Its a really important moment to do the right thing and acknowledge the problematic history of parts of this collection, said Christopher Woods, the director of the museum, which has held the Morton collection since 1966. These individuals were collected under absolutely terrible circumstances  Morton preyed upon the most vulnerable and weakest of society. These individuals should be laid to rest.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, for instance, exposure to secondhand cigarette smoke, at work or at home, can raise a nonsmokers lung cancer risk by 20 to 30 percent.

Calculating the health risks from wildfires, though, is much more challenging. What the smoke contains, and the potential health risks it may bring, will in part depend on what the fire consumed. Smoke from burning trees and vegetation, for example, will present different dangers than that from burning houses, cars, electronics or tool sheds.

Wildfire smoke is also temperamental; it literally blows away with the wind. The harmful substances fires carry can be fleeting and hard to characterize, Dr. Weichenthal said. And it can be challenging to measure the extent to which people are exposed.

But as wildfires intensify because of climate change, growing larger and spreading faster, researchers have recently begun focusing on people exposed to smoke and fires over extended periods of time. Experts from the University of California, Davis, for instance, are following survivors of the 2018 Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif. And at McGill University, Dr. Weichenthal was part of a team that analyzed about two decades worth of Canadian public health records to better understand the health consequences of wildfires, motivated in part by record fire years in Ontario and British Columbia.

It shouldnt be shocking to us that we would see some sort of elevated cancer risk in these places, he said. We know that the chemicals that are being released are carcinogenic.
NAIROBI, Kenya  A wave of relief tinged with jubilation washed across Kenya on Tuesday as its hotly contested presidential election passed largely peacefully after months of bitter jostling and mud slinging. Supporters feted one of the front-runners, Raila Odinga, at his Nairobi stronghold, while his rival, William Ruto, praised the majesty of democracy after casting his ballot before dawn.

But as the voting ended, a new battle was likely beginning.

The close of polls saw Kenyas election shift into a new and unpredictable phase that, if previous polls are a guide, could be rocky. Past elections have been followed by accusations of vote-rigging, protracted courtroom wrangling, bouts of street violence and, in 2017, a shocking murder mystery.

It could take weeks, even months, before a new president is sworn in.

People just dont trust the system, Charles Owuiti, a factory manager, said as he waited to cast his ballot in Nairobi, the line snaking through a crowded schoolyard.
DGAP-Ad-hoc: Cryptology Asset Group PLC / Key word(s): Statement/Corporate Action

CRYPTOLOGY ASSET GROUP PLC is planning upgrade in the Regulated Market



09-Aug-2022 / 11:30 CET/CEST

Disclosure of an inside information acc. to Article 17 MAR of the Regulation (EU) No 596/2014, transmitted by DGAP - a service of EQS Group AG.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





Public Disclosure under MAR Article 17 CRYPTOLOGY ASSET GROUP PLC is planning upgrade in the Regulated Market Malta, 9 August 2022. The Board of Directors of CRYPTOLOGY ASSET GROUP PLC ("Company") is planning an upgrade from the primary market segment of the open market of the Dusseldorf Stock Exchange to the regulated market of Dusseldorf Stock Exchange. The company requests, therefore, today a transfer of approval of the admission prospectus at the Malta Financial Services Authority to the BaFin. The company is planning the upgrade for November 2022. About Cryptology Asset Group p.l.c. Cryptology PLC is a Malta based asset manager investing in crypto assets and crypto companies around the globe and advising blockchain based businesses Contact: Cryptology Asset Group plc Jefim Gewiet 66&67, Beatrice, Amery Street, Sliema SLM 1707, Malta E-mail: info@cryptology-ag.com More Information provided at https://www.cryptology-ag.com

09-Aug-2022 CET/CEST The DGAP Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases.

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Raila Odinga, the smiling eminence of Kenyan politics, has an admirable record of contesting national elections and a miserable record of winning them. Since his first presidential run 30 years ago, Mr. Odinga, 77, has been at the center of nearly every election, mostly as the aggrieved loser claiming to have been cheated of his rightful victory.

Could this time be different? With the most recent polls showing Mr. Odinga in the lead over his rival, William Ruto, the big prize seems to be within his grasp. But Kenyan elections can be messy, unpredictable affairs, with few certainties  a lesson Mr. Odinga knows better than most.

High office is in his blood. The son of Kenyas first vice-president, and an avowed leftist, Mr. Odinga entered politics soon after returning to Kenya from his engineering studies in communist East Germany in the 1960s.
DAKAR, Senegal  It is a struggle that communities across the world have faced: stopping companies from grabbing their lands, polluting their environment and forcing them to relocate.

When a major investor sees an opportunity to profit from a mine or large-scale agriculture, long-established ways of life, and even land ownership rights, often prove to mean little.

But in one West African country, Sierra Leone, the rules of such struggles may be about to change drastically.
MOMBASA, Kenya  Fireworks popped and confetti rained down in the seaside city of Mombasa when Kenyas president inaugurated the countrys new railway  designed, funded and built by China.

President Uhuru Kenyatta proclaimed that the new train would connect the port in Mombasa to the neighboring country of Uganda, create jobs and help transform Kenya into an industrialized, middle-income nation.

This is a very historic moment, President Kenyatta, waving a giant Kenyan flag, told the gathering of Kenyan and Chinese officials. We should be proud.
Mr. Vazquez, however, disagreed with Ms. Sheinbaums view that police corruption, including extortion of citizens, had ended. It is not very realistic to say that it has been eradicated completely, he said. But we are in the process of eradicating it.

The spike in claims of police abuse could also be tied to broader investigative and intelligence powers given to officers, starting in 2019, to fight crime, according to Miguel Garza, director of the Institute for Security and Democracy, a Mexican research institute.

The main forces responsibilities were expanded beyond patrolling streets to investigating crimes ranging from drug trafficking to homicides, and included the creation of a task force in 2019 focused on fighting extortion and kidnapping.

There is pressure from commanders to deliver results, said Mr. Garza, a former Mexico City police commander. What theyre looking for is to ensure people are incarcerated and, to do that, at times they might frame a person with drugs.

The police abuses heavily target low-income residents who often cannot afford legal representation, according to current and former police officers.

They target these vulnerable groups because they believe they dont have the knowledge or the education to defend their rights, said a former Mexico City police officer, Jaime Ramon Bernal Garcia, who was accused of disobeying an order and fired in 2014. He said his dismissal came after he had demanded better labor conditions for police officers. He later founded a nonprofit that promotes labor rights for law enforcement.
Secretary Blinken has confirmed that America is not asking us to choose, she said. I dont recall any attempt by the United States to do that. But in terms of my interaction with some of our partners in Europe and elsewhere, there has been a sense of patronizing bullying  you choose this or else.

Weve been quite clear in saying that we really advocate for peace, Ms. Pandor said.

In a policy speech later on Monday at the University of Pretoria, Mr. Blinken said that economic devastation caused by the coronavirus pandemic had been deepened by Russias unprovoked war on Ukraine.

He cited World Bank estimates that the invasion of Ukraine could add another 40 million people  most of them in Africa  to the ranks of the 193 million people worldwide who need humanitarian food assistance.

Russian officials have told African leaders that the U.S.-led sanctions on their country over the war in Ukraine have deepened the global food crisis, while failing to mention how Russian naval control had until recently prevented grain shipments from leaving Ukraine, one of the worlds biggest grain exporters, via its Black Sea ports.
But the coronavirus pandemic changed everything.

With restaurants and bars closed for long stretches of time during sundry lockdowns, many began to adopt the takeout and home delivery model that Dominos pizza had sought to dominate Italy with. The proliferation of food delivery platforms like Deliveroo, Glovo or Just Eat have notably increased the competition for ePizza, according to the April legal filing in Milan.

Representatives for ePizza and Dominos Pizza in the United States and in Italy did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Other culinary ventures that naysayers said were doomed to fail in Italy have done quite well. When Starbucks opened its first Italian venue in 2018, many said that Italians accustomed to thimble-sized espressos would snub the companys maxi sizes, and its prices. But Percassi, the Italian licensee for the American company, has since opened 18 stores throughout northern and central Italy, including a drive through.

Alessandro Lazzaroni, for five years the chief executive of Dominos Pizza Italia, left the company in December 2020 and is now chief executive of Crazy Pizza, a high-end pizzeria started by the Italian businessman Flavio Briatore, a former director of the Benetton and Renault Formula One racing teams. Crazy Pizza made headlines in Italy this summer after Neapolitan pizza makers complained that the pizzas were too expensive.

And after all, Italians are picky about their pizza.

Stefano Auricchio, the director general of an association that protects real Neapolitan pizza said he was sorry to hear that Dominos Pizza had closed because it impoverishes the market in general, as families have fewer options to choose from.

That said, he thought that in recent years Italians had evolved their palate for pizza and were looking for more artisanal products over chain brands. There is a tendency now to recognize the work of the chef and the quality of the products, he said.
The turnaround by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey was a significant accomplishment in the Biden administrations quiet diplomatic push to unify the West around countering Russias assault on Ukraine.

The expansion of NATO has received overwhelming support among Democrats and Republicans in a deeply divided Washington. Last week, the Senate voted 95 to 1 to give its approval, with only Senator Josh Hawley, Republican of Missouri, opposing the move.

Only the Senate has the power to approve treaties, but last month, the House passed a nonbinding resolution in support of Finland and Swedens accession to NATO in a lopsided vote of 394 to 18.

Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson of Sweden and President Sauli Niinisto of Finland visited the White House in May, and Mr. Biden said on Tuesday that he spoke to them on the phone before the signing ceremony.
Tal Inbar, a senior research fellow at the Missile Defense Advocacy Alliance, an American nonpartisan organization, said the satellite would be capable of providing far better images of the ground from space, representing a significant challenge for Israel, Irans longtime adversary.

Israel has long had such an observation capability, but as far as Iran is concerned, this is a real breakthrough  for the first time an Iranian owns and operates a satellite with a high imaging resolution, much better than what they had until now, Mr. Inbar said. From now on, Iran will be able to collect much more accurate intelligence information for military operations of their forces as well as for the organizations they support.

It will also be able to serve real-time operations by Iran or the militias it supports, he said.

This is a significant narrowing of the technological gap between Iran, and Israel and the United States, Mr. Inbar said.

The Iranian space agency insisted that the satellite would not be used for military purposes, saying in a statement on Aug. 7 that it was intended for agricultural programs, water resources and other environmental applications. But analysts affiliated with Irans powerful Revolutionary Guards force posted messages on social media boasting that the satellite gives Iran the ability to monitor American military bases and Israel from space.
Internet traffic in Kherson is being diverted through Russia Internet routing data for a service provider in Kherson shows traffic beginning to flow through Russian networks in May before fully transitioning by early June. Internet traffic routed through: Ukrainian providers Russia 100% Kherson falls 0 January February March April May June July August 100% Kherson falls 0 January March May June August Source: Kentik

Several weeks after taking over Ukraines southern port city of Kherson, Russian soldiers arrived at the offices of local internet service providers and ordered them to give up control of their networks.

They came to them and put guns to their head and just said, Do this, said Maxim Smelyanets, who owns an internet provider that operates in the area and is based in Kyiv. They did that step by step for each company.

Russian authorities then rerouted mobile and internet data from Kherson through Russian networks, government and industry officials said. They blocked access to Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, as well as to Ukrainian news websites and other sources of independent information. Then they shut off Ukrainian cellular networks, forcing Khersons residents to use Russian mobile service providers instead.

Kyiv Internet service provider Network hub UKRAINE Internet traffic Occupied territory Kherson UKR. Detail area BLACK SEA Kyiv Internet service provider Network hub UKRAINE Internet traffic Occupied territory Kherson BLACK SEA UKR. Detail area May 29 Kherson stayed connected to the global internet even after Russian forces took control in March. From Moscow RUSSIA Kyiv Occupied territory UKRAINE Kherson Internet service provider SEA OF AZOV UKR. Crimea Detail area BLACK SEA From Moscow RUSSIA Kyiv Occupied territory UKRAINE Kherson Internet service provider UKR. Crimea Detail area June 1 Then the connection closed. Russian authorities rerouted Khersons internet traffic through a state-controlled network in Crimea. From Moscow RUSSIA Kyiv Occupied territory UKRAINE Kherson Internet service provider SEA OF AZOV UKR. Crimea Detail area BLACK SEA From Moscow RUSSIA Kyiv Occupied territory UKRAINE Kherson Internet service provider UKR. Crimea Detail area June 5 Russia has only added to the network infrastructure, routing more traffic through Moscow to strengthen its control of Khersons internet. Source: Kentik (traffic data); Institute for the Study of War with American Enterprise Institutes Critical Threats Project (occupied territory) Note: Internet service provider and traffic route locations are approximate. The service area for one provider whose traffic has been routed through Crimea could not be verified and is not shown.

What happened in Kherson is playing out in other parts of Russian-occupied Ukraine. After more than five months of war, Russia controls large sections of eastern and southern Ukraine. Bombings have leveled cities and villages; civilians have been detained, tortured and killed; and supplies of food and medicine are running low, according to witnesses interviewed by The New York Times and human rights groups. Ukrainians in those regions have access only to Russian state television and radio.

To cap off that control, Russia has also begun occupying the cyberspace of parts of those areas. That has cleaved off Ukrainians in Russia-occupied Kherson, Melitopol and Mariupol from the rest of the country, limiting access to news about the war and communication with loved ones. In some territories, the internet and cellular networks have been shut down altogether.

Restricting internet access is part of a Russian authoritarian playbook that is likely to be replicated further if they take more Ukrainian territory. The digital tactics have put those Ukrainian areas in the grip of a vast digital censorship and surveillance apparatus, with Russia able to track web traffic and digital communications, spread propaganda and manage what news reaches people.

The first thing that an occupier does when they come to Ukrainian territory is cut off the networks, said Stas Prybytko, who leads mobile broadband development in Ukraines Ministry of Digital Transformation. The goal is to restrict peoples access to the internet and block them from communicating with their families in other cities and keep them from receiving truthful information.

Russias rerouting and censorship of the Ukrainian internet has little historical precedent elsewhere in the world. Even after Beijing took more control of Hong Kong beginning in 2019, the internet in the city was not placed under the same kind of censorship controls as in mainland China. And while Russias tactics can be circumvented  people use virtual private networks, or VPNs, which hide a users location and identity to get around the internet blocks  they might be applied to future occupations.

In Russian-controlled Ukraine, the internet restrictions began with key infrastructure built years ago. In 2014, after Russia annexed Crimea, the strategic peninsula in southern Ukraine, a state telecom company built a subsea cable and other infrastructure across the Kerch Strait to redirect internet traffic from Crimea to Russia.

Data from Ukrainian networks is now being redirected south through Crimea and through those cables, researchers said. On May 30, the traffic of the Kherson-based internet networks like Skynet and Status Telecom suddenly went dark. Over the next few days, peoples internet connections were restored, but they were running through a Russian state-controlled telecom company in Crimea, Miranda Media, according to Doug Madory, director of internet analysis at Kentik, a company that measures the performance of internet networks.

Russian forces are also destroying infrastructure that linked the internet in the occupied areas to the rest of Ukraine and the global web, said Mykhailo Kononykhin, head of information technology and a system administrator for a provider that had about 10,000 customers in the Melitopol area. He added that Russian forces were also stealing equipment from Ukrainian internet providers to strengthen connections to Crimea, including laying more fiber-optic cable.

A destroyed shopping mall in Kherson, Ukraine, where residents are being forced to use Russian cellular networks. Agence France-Presse  Getty Images

In some Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine, digital censorship is even worse than inside Russia, government and industry officials say. In the Kherson and Donetsk regions, Google, YouTube and the messaging app Viber have been blocked, internet operators said.

Were seeing an occupation of the Ukrainian internet, said Alp Toker, director of NetBlocks, an internet monitoring service based in London.

Konstantin Ryzhenko, a Ukrainian journalist in Kherson, said many Ukrainian websites and online banking services were inaccessible, as well as social media services like Facebook and Instagram. VPNs have become essential for people to communicate and stay in touch, he said.

Russia is requiring Ukrainians there to show a passport to buy a SIM card with a Russian phone number, Mr. Ryzhenko said. That makes it easier for Russian troops to keep tabs on people with their mobile devices, including location and internet browsing.

Youre buying the device that is wiretapping your traffic, knowing full well who you are, and identifies precisely all your actions on the internet, he said.

In some occupied areas, internet and mobile phone networks were shut off, creating a digital blackout. A few Ukrainian internet providers sabotaged their own networks rather than turning them over to the Russians, according to the Ukrainian government.

Anton Koval, who lived for 21 days in a village outside Kyiv that was occupied in February and March, said Russian soldiers had gone through town shooting and destroying cellular towers. Cut off from information and communication with the outside world, some residents grew so desperate that they climbed onto roofs and hilltops seeking connections.

But the Russians hunted people who tried to climb high places, Mr. Koval said in an interview. When a close neighbor tried to climb a tree, they shot him in the leg.

Beyond Ukraines occupied territories, the internet has been a key battlefield in the war. While Russia has imposed a blunt censorship regime at home, Ukraine has effectively used social media to rally global support and share information about civilian deaths and other atrocities. Mobile apps warn Ukrainians about missile attacks and give updates about the war.

About 15 percent of Ukraines internet infrastructure across the country had been damaged or destroyed as of June, according the government. At least 11 percent of all cellular base stations, which are equipment that connect handsets to mobile networks, do not work because of damage or lack of power.

As of June, the war had destroyed or damaged about 15 percent of Ukraine's internet structure, including these cables being repaired in Irpin, near Kyiv. Ivor Prickett for The New York Times

Yet in many parts of Ukraine, internet and mobile service has remained strong. Ukraines tech sector has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise decimated economy. Telegram, the messaging and communications platform, has remained available, even in many occupied areas.

More than 12,000 internet Starlink terminals made by SpaceX, the private rocket company controlled by Elon Musk, have supplemented coverage, said Andrii Nabok, an official in the Ministry of Digital Transformation, which is trying to restore internet access in the country. A government loan program is being drafted to speed up repairs.

Where Ukrainian forces have regained control of occupied territories, restoring internet and cellular services was among the first tasks. Near the front lines, telecom technicians are escorted by soldiers, sometimes in the face of artillery fire. Mr. Prybytko, who oversees some network rebuilding efforts for the government, said telecom workers were the hidden heroes of the war.

Lack of proper internet or communication tools is just one small part of the misery in occupied areas with no electricity or water and food shortages. We are not speaking about internet or providing some information to people, we are speaking about survival, said Yuliia Rudanovska, who lives in Poland but has family in Izyum, which faced weeks of air attacks from Russian forces.

Oleksandra Samoylova, who lives in Kharkiv in the northeast, said she had not been able to reach her grandmother in an occupied area about 85 miles away since April. The only word received about her were two messages that she was OK from a neighbor who sent short texts after reaching a nearby village where there was a connection.

Ukrainian officials fear the disruptions could get worse as Russia has vowed to push farther into Ukraine. Government intelligence indicates Russia is laying more fiber-optic cable to divert even more traffic in the future, Mr. Nabok said.

To help people in those areas connect to the global internet, Ukraines government is providing free access to certain VPN services. Ukrainian officials are also seeking donations for routers and other equipment to put internet service into bomb shelters, including at schools.

The educational process should continue, even in bomb shelters, so they need internet connections underground, Mr. Prybytko said.
Brad Finstad, a former state lawmaker, is the Republican nominee in this special general election contest to fill the remainder of the term of Representative Jim Hagedorn, a Republican who died in February. Mr. Finstad is favored in this red district, but hes facing a strong Democrat: Jeff Ettinger, the retired chief executive of Hormel Foods, an iconic, locally based company that has helped him campaign as a pro-business moderate.
Adam Jarchow, a former state assemblyman, faces Eric Toney, the Fond du Lac County district attorney, in a race defined by both mens claims to prosecute voter fraud.


Bill Haynes (L) and George Spencer co-authored this article.

We are not a company with a mission, said one impact-minded CEO at the MO CEO Summit in Portland, Oregon, which was presented by Big Path Capital in partnership with BackBay Communications. We are a mission with a company.

That pithy proclamation came from the chief executive of a consumer food companyone which has increasingly become a household nameas she described the experience of leading a business thats committed to both profit and purpose in a time when capital is pouring into the impact market. Investments in her company have created tremendous new opportunities for growth, scale and even greater impact, she said. But scale and growth have also brought new challenges.

Variations on that theme are common across the current impact investing landscape. We heard it again and again at the MO Summit. After all, many of the CEOs in attendance had been recently named to the 2022 MO100 Impact Ranking, a list that highlights the leaders of momentum-fueled, mission-driven companies, based on the companies revenue, growth and impact. But we also heard similar threads of that challenge-and-opportunity refrain even more recently from an investor perspective, at Big Path Capitals Impact Capitalism Summit on Nantucket.

This article is featured in O'Dwyer's Aug. Financial PR/IR & Professional Services PR Magazine

(view PDF version)

Industry data bears out the expansion of impact-fueled investment. In 2020, the Global Impact Investing Network conservatively estimated the size of the global impact market at $715 billion, a meaningfully larger total than the GIIN had estimated just two years prior. More encompassing measurements of sustainable investments now total more than $35 trillion, or more than a third of all assets in five of the worlds biggest markets. Whatever the indicator, the trend toward fast growth is clear.

In this context, many CEOs of mission-driven companies are asking versions of the same questions: How do leaders stay true to mission and impact as the market heats up? And just as importantly, how do they best communicate that mission and impact to the stakeholders for whom it really matters? Meanwhile, the investors helping those companies grow have their own questions: How can we ensure that were actually generating the impact we intend? And how do we showcase that impact in ways that build stakeholder trust?

For both the mission-driven companies and the private equity and venture capital firms that invest in them, there are no one-size-fits-all answers for these big questions, but some useful approaches are clear.

The impact must be real. As the impact moniker is used more broadly, successful impact leaders know that they can only claim what theyre actually doing. Customers and staff increasingly see through hollow claims of impact that arent grounded in reality, recognizing it as empty marketing. For most leaders at the Summit, this is the easy part: many had the urge to generate a positive impact before they even had a business plan! For other CEOs who wish to follow their lead, intentional impact is foundational.

Impact culture is built from the inside out. Staying true to impact and mission begins with a companys team. One impact CEO said her company sees financial metrics as the lagging indicator of success; the growth and development of her team, she said, is the leading indicator. Impact-minded leaders should find ways to communicate their own personal development and growth, as they push for similar progress among those with whom they work.

Staying still is not an option. For businesses, like individuals, nothing stays the same. Were either growing, said one impact CEO, or were shrinking. A mindset that embraces the constancy of change allows leaders to hold on to whats most important and to let go of whats not. Such a mindset can be essential when the market around your company is changing quickly.

Authenticity matters. Authenticity increasingly shows up as a primary theme across the impact investing industry today. As a growing field of businesses and investment firms want to ride the impact tide, some are taking advantage of the loose definitions in this increasingly popularbut maturingfield. The result has been two-fold: Theres been greater scrutiny on firms claims, including accusations of so-called greenwashing; and now, even the SEC is stepping in to crack down on misleading claims by funds. At the same time, theres been innovation with powerful new tools for measuring, managing and optimizing impact. Among truly mission-focused leaders and investors, the bottom line is clear: If youre going to be talking about the impact on your business or investments, you need to be telling your audience the truthwhether that audience is your customers, your staff, your community or other stakeholders. Authenticity matters.

Measurement matters, too. The best way to prove authenticity is through evidence. Its essential for mission-driven companies and the firms that invest in them to concretely describe the impact they aim to achieveand then to measure and report those outcomes. For investment firms, speaking clearly about the non-concessionary investment returns they hope to achieve for their limited partners is also vital. Many firms now create detailed annual impact reports with a full accounting of their outcomes based on a handful of commonly accepted metrics and measurement systems. From a communications perspective, these reports come to life with case studies, photos, infographics and videos that tell a story of positive impact on people and the planet.

The Impact Capitalism Summit offered good cause for optimism on the approaches, themes, and challenges described above. As temperatures across the United States broke records, the CEOs of impact private equity firms of all sizes, insurance companies, family offices and other industry players discussed the array of issues facing our world, but the climate was clearly at the top of the list.

Among the attendees, there was a feeling that the private sector canand indeed, mustaddress the climate crisis and build toward a sustainable economy, hopefully with government assistance. The feeling of momentum was palpable. One participant said, Great funds solving important problems will continue to attract investments. And, of course, those funds will then flow to companies creating the sustainable economy of the future, keeping the flywheel of capital and innovation spinning.

As communicators, we need to showcase these important stories of success and hope, in the context of this market full of potential, to attract talent and capital to the businesses that will thrive in this new, more sustainable impact economy.

***

Bill Haynes is CEO & Founder of BackBay Communications. George Spencer is VP, Impact Investing Group, at BackBay Communications.
Drew O'Brien

Drew O'Brien, who was executive VP/managing director at BCW, has joined Seven Letter in its Boston office.

At BCW, he also was president of its Direct Impact grassroots communications and advocacy unit.

O'Brien has federal government experience, serving in the State Dept. under John Kerry. He was the State Dept's special representative for global partnerships dealing with outreach to the private sector and NGOs.

He also played key roles in the Our Oceans Conference, Global Entrepreneurship Summit and America's response to the Ebola crisis in West Africa.

Before heading to DC, O'Brien was special assistant to Boston mayor Thomas Menino, chief of staff to the Massachusetts State Lottery Commission and deputy chancellor to the University of Massachusetts Boston.

"As far as strategic communications advisors go, there is no one better than Drew O'Brien," said Seven Letter CEO Erik Smith.

Washington-based Seven Letter merged with Boston's O'Neill and Assocs. in 2020.

They are part of Public Policy Holding Co.
Wiggin and Dana is repping Ahmad Feroz Bakhshi, an Afghan national who served as an interpreter for the US military in Afghanistan, in his bid to obtain a special immigrant visa.

Bakhshi fled Afghanistan following the US military withdrawal from the country and the ensuing takeover of the government by the Taliban.

He is currently in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Working on a pro bono basis, the New Haven law firm will contact the State Dept. members of Congress and other US entities to inform them of Bakhshis exemplary service to Americas war effort.

It also will conduct outreach to US media to draw attention to Bakhshis efforts to gain entry to the US.

The Emergency Security Supplemental Appropriation Act, which went into effect July 30, 2021, authorized an additional 8,000 SIVs for Afghan nationals.

A total of 34,500 SIVs have been issued since December 19, 2014.
Poor, poor Donald. Ex-president Donald Trump reverted to full victim mode following the FBIs raid on his Mar-A-Lago compound.

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, whined Trump. Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before.

You got that right, Donald.

But thats only because no other president allegedly removed a trove of classified documents from the White House, which is a violation of federal law and could put you behind bars for three years.

Trumps band of sniveling sycophants rallied to their Majesty's defense, calling the raid the latest bid to weaponize the FBI.

Kevin McCarthy, the leader of the suck-ups, promised a full investigation of the Justice Dept. in the horrible event that he becomes House Speaker.

Trump doesnt see any difference between the Florida raid and the Watergate scandal of 50 years ago where operatives broke into the Democratic National Committee. Here, in reverse, Democrats broke into the home of the 45th president of the US.

The big difference: the Watergate break-in was part of a political spying and sabotage campaign waged by president Richard Nixons re-election campaign.

The Mar-A-Lago raiders were looking for documents that may further explain your role in overturning the results of the 2020 election and the Jan. 6 insurrection.

There was a famous 18.5-minute gap in the Nixon tape recordings of the president talking with his top aides.

There is a seven-hour gap in the presidential phone logs on Jan. 6.

The FBI may soon be able to fill that gap.

Stop the presses. The New York Post made money. News Corp CEO Robert Thomson told investors on August 8 that Rupert Murdochs pride and joy formally reported a profit, possibly the first since Alexander Hamilton founded the paper and is now on a pathway to increasing profit contribution.

To celebrate this milestone, Thomson should restore the image of Hamilton on its front cover.

The News Media Group, which comprises the Post and a bunch of Australian and UK papers, was the single largest contributor to the enhanced profit picture for News Corps fiscal year ended June 30.

Bolstered by increases in digital advertising and revenues, the News Media segments profit grew to $217M from $52M.

A buoyant Thomson said the Posts upbeat performance was due to its brave journalism that has seen it soar far above media mediocrity."

Lets not get carried away, Robert.

Many readers visit the Posts site or pick up the rag out of curiosity.

They want to see what you guys can get away with.

Conning the MAGA crowd. The Federal Trade Commission has finalized its action against Utah-based Lions Not Sheep, marketer of pro-Trump apparel, and its owner Sean Whalen for claiming its junk was made in the US, not China.

LNS sells hats, t-shirts and various accessories emblazoned with jingoistic tags such as Trumpinator: Ill Be Back Gods Nation, Give Violence a Chance, Free Man, Lets Go Brandon, and stars & stripes onesie pajamas.

The FTC charged that LNS yanked Made in China tags on its trash and replaced them with a Made in USA label. USA, USA, USA, indeed.

The FTC fined the company $211K and ordered it to stop claiming its products are made in the US unless they can show that the final assembly or processingand all significant processing takes place here and that virtually all ingredients or components of the product are made and sourced here.

On its website, LNS states that it buys blank garments that are made in various countries such as China, Colombia and Bangladesh.

It then prints, embroiders, laser engraves, tags and bags the stuff in the USA.

The company also links to the FTC guideless about Made in USA claims.

LNS ships a copy of the US Constitution with each order.

Following the July 28 FTC order, LNS should include a copy of chairman Maos Little Red Book with each shipment.

Aaron Copelands 1942 classic Fanfare for the Common Man would bomb today as Ordinary Joes and Janes get no respect.

Only 40 percent of Americans trust ordinary men and women," according to a Ipsos Global Trustworthiness Index released August 1.

Copeland based Fanfare on a speech called Century of the Common Man that was given by Henry Wallace, who was VP under Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

Wallace, perhaps America's most liberal VP, was the Bernie Sanders of his day.

FDR dumped Wallace from the 1944 re-election ticket after a revolt led by conservative Democrats.

He then appointed Wallace Secretary of Commerce. President Truman fired Wallace after he made a speech suggesting closer ties between the US and Soviet Union.

Progressive rock band Emerson Lake & Palmer recorded a rousing version of Fanfare in 1977.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez' Squad should adopt ELP's Fanfare as its theme song.
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China is not expected to intensify military drills of Taiwan but the US remains concerned.
The FBI raid on Donald Trump's home immediately turned political ... with pro-Trump protesters gathering in front of Mar-a-Lago ... claiming it was a witch hunt. As we reported, the FBI descended on Trump's home Monday ... on the hunt for
The leaders of Estonia and Finland have called for European nations to stop issuing tourist visas to Russians. Both nations are being used as a route for Russian tourists seeking to skirt an EU ban on air travel.
The former US president said his Mar-A-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, is "currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents."
The mayor of Nagasaki has highlighted the threat of nuclear war on the anniversary of the atomic bomb strike that flattened the city. He said Russia's invasion of Ukraine showed that peace through deterrence was fragile.
The comments came as Nagasaki marked 77 years since the US dropped an atomic bomb on the Japanese city.
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Belt and Road media forum held in Xi'an

People's Daily) 14:32, August 09, 2022

The 2022 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road was held Tuesday in Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi Province. (Photo provided to People's Daily)

Xi'an (People's Daily) -The 2022 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road was held Tuesday in Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

In 2013, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the Belt and Road Initiative. Over the next 9 years, the initiative has transformed from vision to reality and become the world's largest international cooperation platform.

The People's Daily, the Shaanxi provincial Party committee and the Shaanxi provincial government hosted the forum with the theme "Embrace Global Development Initiative and Deeper Connectivity."

More than 120 Chinese and foreign media representatives from more than 40 countries and organizations participated in the forum live, on video and through written speeches. Also attending the forum were central government officials, Chinese experts and Belt and Road Initiative company bosses.

Scheduled for Tuesday afternoon were two sub-forums: Belt and Road Regional Cooperation, and Media Dialogue on Global Development Initiative.

Through arrangements by forum organizers, four groups of Chinese and foreign reporters traveled in Shaanxi Province over eight days from August 1 to report on the province's high-quality development.

The Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road has been held six times since 2014 as a platform for media dialogue and pragmatic cooperation between countries.

(Web editor: Liang Jun, Bianji)
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Former President Donald Trump released what looks very much like a campaign ad soon after news broke about the FBI search of his home in Florida.


Legal scholars say the FBI raid on President Donald Trump's Florida estate may not have been necessary if the matter was about White House documents.
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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban addressed a crowd of thousands of American admirers in Dallas, Texas, at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). Orban described Hungary and America as twin fronts in a struggle against globalists, progressives, communists, and fake news.



To fully comprehend...
By C. Todd Lopez



The Defense Department detailed the contents of the latest security assistance package to Ukraine, which is worth $1 billion. Provided under presidential drawdown authority  the 18th drawdown so far  the package includes additional ammunition for both the high mobility artillery rocket and howitzer...
At least eight people lost their lives in South Korea's capital, Seoul, after the city recorded the heaviest rainfall it has seen in decades. The floodwaters scattered cars and buses across the streets and blocked traffic as authorities attempt to rescue missing residents.
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Israeli troops killed three Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants and wounded dozens in a shootout that erupted during an arrest raid in the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank Tuesday. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's Fatah party vowed to retaliate after the Israeli police operation.
Opalesque Industry Update - Napier Park Global Capital has been acquired by First Eagle Investments. Napier Park and First Eagle have approximately $19.5 billion and $101.8 billion in assets under management, respectively. The transaction closed on August 1, 2022. Napier Park is a leading alternative credit manager with approximately $19.5 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2022, across credit funds, CLOs, and real assets predominantly within the U.S. and European markets. Napier Park differentiates itself through its decades of specialized credit expertise, world-class infrastructure, and creativity, providing effective solutions to a broad range of institutional clients. Napier Park has offices in New York, London, and Switzerland. First Eagle Investments is an independent, privately owned investment management firm headquartered in New York with approximately $101.8 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2022. Dedicated to providing prudent stewardship of client assets, the firm focuses on active, fundamental, and benchmark-agnostic investing, with a strong emphasis on downside mitigation. With a heritage dating back to 1864, First Eagle Investments has helped its clients avoid permanent impairment of capital and earn attractive returns through widely varied economic cycles-a tradition that is central to its mission today. The firm's investment capabilities include equity, fixed income, alternative credit, and multi-asset strategies. As an autonomous, wholly owned unit of First Eagle Investments, Napier Park will go to market as "Napier Park, a First Eagle Investments Company" and maintain its investment approach, business focus, and client service. No changes will be made to Napier Park's investment philosophy or processes as a result of the acquisition, nor are any personnel changes expected. Key Napier Park employees will sign long-term agreements and continue in their current roles. The transaction complements First Eagle Investments' multi-asset lineup and enhances capabilities offered to clients, including opportunistic credit. The transaction has no impact on First Eagle Alternative Credit, which will continue under its current leadership and operate independently from Napier Park. Houlihan Lokey, a global investment bank with expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, financial restructuring, and financial and valuation advisory served as the exclusive financial advisor to Napier Park. Press release

Bg Article source - Opalesque is not responsible for the content of external internet sites
LOS ANGELES (AP)  When Katori Hall first pitched the idea to convert her popular play about Black strip club culture into the television series P-Valley, the Pulitzer Prize winner was either quickly rejected after meeting with networks or denied before she could fully explain the concept.

Hall struggled to find support from some network executives who thought the concept would be exploitative of Black women, in light of the history of casting them in hypersexualized roles on screen. Hall, who is a Black woman, understood they wanted to avoid any backlash, but her overall vision was focused on humanizing exotic dancers  which Starz heard with open ears.

I felt like there were some strong characters here, said Hall, who won a 2021 Pulitzer Prize for her play The Hot Wing King. She serves as the creator, showrunner and executive producer of the drama series P-Valley, an adaptation of her 2015 stage play.

It would be commentary for all women when it came to how we as a gender are really struggling between the spaces of power and liberation in our own lives, she continued. Starz was the only one that said yes. But Im a firm believer that all you have to do is take that one yes and make something of it.

P-Valley tells a story about several exotic dancers  veteran and newcomers  who are trying to make a name for themselves at a popular Mississippi Delta strip club called The Pynk, which is owned by a nonbinary and gender-fluid character, Uncle Clifford. The series gained popularity over two seasons for exploring the provocative world of Black Southern sex workers while also addressing homosexuality, poverty and mental health.

Sundays season finale unveils how the strip club is faced with several obstacles after its grand reopening following pandemic lockdowns. The previous episode  which featured an appearance from Grammy winner Meghan Thee Stallion  touched on the strip clubs influence over the mayoral election.

Its unclear if P-Valley will return for a third season. Starz has not made an official announcement.

Hall knew her series could resonate with viewers, saying strip clubs in the South are more of an intriguing spectacle than taboo. Its a place where businessmen have closed deals and major rap artists like Drake and Future have broken big records.

We had to overcome other peoples preconceived notions of the space, Hall said. I think we were able to do that through character work and development. I really spent years talking to so many different women and was so inspired by their experiences to create these fictional characters that feel so much like real life.

While P-Valley has been well received by most, it has also been met with tough criticism. Some on social media took aim at the show for featuring gay sex scenes, particularly between Black men.

What I have found in my experience as a Black man in this country is that I know Black people to love (each other). I know that's not the common narrative, said Nicco Annan, who plays the flamboyant Uncle Clifford. Annan, who is gay, felt immediately drawn to the story when he read the plays script in 2009.

I know theres a lot of combative forces out here like homophobia that exist, he continued. But its an honor to be a part of a project that holds the banner up for all that we are as a community. This show is successful because it subverts the expectation that you have for all of these characters.

Brandee Evans, who stars as veteran stripper Mercedes, shares Annans sentiments. She said the show explores the different reasons women venture into sex work, such as a financial means to an end or to celebrate the freedom of showing off their body.

Its beautiful for the world to see the authenticity of it all, Evans said. Its a lot to take in when you watch it, because its the truth.

Hall understands her show has created some uncomfortable conversations on topics such as queer acceptance and Black empowerment.

Its needed, she said. We have to be honest. There are queer people in our families and churches  everywhere around us. I would say P-Valley is going to represent every Black person. We're going to represent all types of people on our show.
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NEW YORK (AP)  For much of the year, small cracks in Donald Trump's political support have been growing.

Dissatisfied Republican primary voters began to consider new presidential prospects. GOP donors grappled with damaging revelations uncovered by the Jan. 6 committee. S everal party leaders pondered challenging Trump for the party's 2024 nomination.

But after the FBI executed a search warrant at his Florida estate, the Republican Party unified swiftly behind the former president.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who likely represents Trump's strongest potential primary challenger, described the Biden administration as a regime and called Monday's Mar-a-Lago search for improperly taken classified documents another escalation in the weaponization of federal agencies against the Regimes political opponents.

The GOP push to portray Trump as the victim of a politicized Justice Department ignored the potential criminal misconduct that justified the search in the eyes of a federal judge. It overlooked Trump's role in hiring now-vilified FBI Director Chris Wray, who also served as a high-ranking official in a Republican-led Justice Department. The Biden White House, meanwhile, said it had no prior knowledge of the search.

But the robust defense serves as a fresh reminder of the former president's enduring grip on the GOP, driven by an ability to use a sense of grievance among many Republican voters toward government and other institutions. Trump tapped into that animosity to overcome two impeachments and the fallout from an insurrection. His allies said Tuesday that the FBI search would only strengthen his position again.

The sooner he kicks off his campaign, the better," Indiana GOP Rep. Jim Banks, the chair of the Republican Study Committee, said in an interview.

Banks was among about a dozen Republican lawmakers who spent several hours Tuesday evening with Trump at his summer home in Bedminster, New Jersey. During a meal that included steak, scallops, mashed potatoes, salad and a Trump cookie, the group talked about the upcoming midterm elections and the 2024 presidential race, Banks said.

The former president told the lawmakers his mind is made up about a 2024 campaign and we'll all be happy with his decision."

The FBI search seemed to trigger a shift among Trump's advisers, who had been privately urging him to wait until after the midterm elections to announce his intention to seek the presidency again. Suddenly, some of those same advisers were urging him to launch his campaign before the November elections.

Trump stoked such speculation in the hours after the search by posting a campaign-style video on social media. The best is yet to come, he said.

He followed up with a fundraising appeal, making it personal by declaring "its important that you know that it wasnt just my home that was violated  it was the home of every patriotic American who I have been fighting for.

In Columbia, South Carolina, Sen. Lindsey Graham said he spoke with Trump and felt sure another campaign was coming.

One thing I can tell you, Graham said. I believed he was going to run before. Im stronger in my belief now.

As Republicans rallied behind Trump, Democrats pushed back against GOP claims of political interference, without evidence. Some accused the GOP of a departure from its longstanding commitment to law and order."

The FBI director was appointed by Donald Trump, said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Asked if the raid might hurt Democrats in the November elections, she said: Youre talking about if the Justice Department decides to have a warrant to go in because they suspect something is justified, its going to have an impact on the election? No, no, no, no, no.

Some of Trump's most vocal Republican critics still shied away from embracing the former president. And it was unclear how rank-and-file Republican voters and independents frustrated by Trump's divisive leadership might be moved by the new developments.

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, a former federal prosecutor and one of many Republicans considering a 2024 presidential bid, noted Tuesday that a federal judge had to sign off on the warrant.

The former president is presumed innocent, Christie said in an interview. On the other hand, we cant immediately impugn the motives of the prosecutors just because theyre from another political party.

Its an extraordinary action. And there better be some pretty extraordinary facts to underlie it. If there are, then they have every right to do it.

And some other Republican officials seemed to express continued concerns about Trump by refusing to weigh in at all.

The relatively short list of those GOP leaders who remained silent Tuesday afternoon was led by Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who has privately encouraged his party to move past Trump. But the Kentucky Republican eventually weighed in, saying: The country deserves a thorough and immediate explanation of what led to the events of Monday. Attorney General Garland and the Department of Justice should already have provided answers to the American people and must do so immediately.

The overwhelming majority  from House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy to DeSantis, accused the Biden administration of weaponizing the Justice Department and ignored any potential wrongdoing by Trump.

The GOP now fully embraces the notion that Trump should, indeed, be above the law, and that Trump 2.0 will be a bonfire of vengeance, wrote Republican commentator Charlie Sykes, a frequent Trump critic.

Former Vice President Mike Pence, who is gearing up for a presidential run of his own, said he shared the deep concerns of millions of Americans over the search of Trump's private residence.

He stopped short of attacking the FBI, however. Instead, he said Attorney General Merrick Garland should give a full accounting to the American people as to why this action was taken and he must do so immediately.

Republican Sens. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Josh Hawley of Missouri aggressively condemned the Justice Department on Trump's behalf.

Hawley called the search an unprecedented assault on democratic norms and the rule of law. He called for Garland's resignation or impeachment and the removal of FBI Director Wray.

Cotton said Garland had weaponized the Justice Department against his political enemies. There will be consequences for this," he warned.

Also from Arkansas, Gov. Asa Hutchinson, still another Republican weighing a 2024 run, called the search unprecedented and alarming. But like Pence, he added, We must see the probable cause affidavit before making a judgment.

The search intensified the months-long probe into how classified documents ended up in boxes of White House records located at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year. A separate grand jury is investigating efforts by Trump and allies to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election.

In late June, long before the latest development, 48% of U.S. adults said that Trump should be charged with a crime for his role in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Views on Trumps criminal liability broke down predictably along party lines, with 86% of Democrats and 10% of Republicans saying Trump should be charged. Still, the fact that nearly half the country believed he should be prosecuted represents a remarkable position for the former president, pointing to the difficulties he could face in another White House run.

Former Trump adviser Sam Nunberg said Monday's FBI search would almost certainly strengthen Trump's standing among Republican primary voters, especially those Republicans who had begun to lean toward DeSantis or another fresh face. But if Trump is ultimately indicted for a federal crime related to the search, as Nunberg said he expects, the former president's ability to win over a broader group of voters in the 2024 general election could take a major hit.

Despite the fantasies of everyone from Sean Hannity to Steve Bannon, I can promise you that someone under indictment isnt going to get elected president of the United States, Nunberg said.

But on Tuesday, at least, the Republican Party was squarely behind Trump, its undisputed leader.

One of Trump's most vocal supporters in Congress, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, almost seemed to thank the Justice Department for bringing her party together.

Ive talked a lot about the civil war in the GOP and I lean into it because America needs fearless & effective Republicans to finally put America First, she tweeted. Last nights tyrannical FBI raid at MAR is unifying us in ways I havent seen.

___

AP writers Jill Colvin, Meg Kinnard, Alan Fram and Lisa Mascaro contributed to this report.
Midland County added 85 COVID-19 cases from Aug. 3-9, according to the State of Michigan's website on Tuesday.

COVID-19 numbers Aug. 3-9

Midland County added 85 cases from Aug. 3-9. Overall, Midland County has 19,1227 cases, 1,825 probable cases, 214 deaths and 21 probable deaths.

Bay County added 114 cases. Overall, Bay County has 26,282 cases, 2,970 probable cases, 574 deaths and 33 probable deaths.

Gladwin County added 35 cases and one death. Overall, Gladwin County has 5,138 cases, 895 probable cases, 115 deaths and seven probable deaths.

Isabella County added 40 cases. Overall, Isabella County has 14,130 cases, 2,569 probable cases, 200 deaths and 22 probable deaths.

Saginaw County added 331 cases and subtracted a death. Overall, Saginaw County has 50,116 cases, 4,530 probable cases, 920 deaths and 52 probable deaths.

Overall, Michigan is at 2,708,622 confirmed and probable cases and 37,5671 confirmed and probable deaths.

MyMichigan Health statistics

As of July 26, MyMichigan Medical Center in Midland was listed as having a 77% bed occupancy with 13 COVID patients and none in the ICU. MyMichigan Medical Center in Gladwin was listed as having a 47% bed occupancy with two COVID patient and none in the ICU.

Both medical centers reported having 7-14 days' worth of surgical masks and at least 15-30 days' worth of other personal protection equipment (N95 masks, gowns, gloves and eye protection) on hand.

Recovered

According to the Midland County Health Department website, 18,989 Midland County individuals have recovered from COVID. This data was last updated on Aug. 1.

Testing

Midland Countys seven-day rolling test positivity rate between July 29-Aug. 4 was listed at 20%, and Gladwin Countys was listed at 19.4%. Midland County and Gladwin County both have high community transmission.

Our 12-county region was listed at 19.4% and Michigan was at 21.3%.

Every household in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID-19 tests for free. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days. To place an order for at-home COVID tests, visit covidtests.gov.

Midland County vaccinations

Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are available at clinics administered by the health department at the Midland County Services Building, 220 W. Ellsworth St., Midland. The health department will vaccinate anyone who needs a first or second dose; those who need their second dose must bring their vaccination card.

Following FDA approval, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is urging all eligible Michiganders to get a Johnson & Johnson, Moderna or Pfizer booster vaccine if they have received their primary COVID-19 vaccines.

Following CDC approval, MDHHS is urging all eligible Michiganders aged 12 and up to get the Pfizer booster vaccine if they have received their two primary COVID-19 vaccines. Pfizer is the only authorized vaccine for under age 18. The Midland County Department of Public Health has vaccine booster shots available for children ages 5-11.

Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Some people may prefer the vaccine type they originally received and others may prefer to get a different type of booster vaccine. CDCs recommendations now allow for this type of mix and match dosing for booster shots. Consult your healthcare provider if there is a question which vaccine is appropriate for you.

Michiganders should bring their COVID-19 vaccine card or immunization record with them when getting their booster dose, which is available at any vaccine provider. Downloadable immunization records are accessible free at the Michigan Immunization Portal. To obtain their record, Michiganders must create a MILogin account at Michigan.gov/MiImmsportal and upload a valid government issued photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID or passport. If you do not have records in the portal, contact your healthcare provider or local health department.

Future COVID-19 vaccine clinics in Midland County are listed at www.co.midland.mi.us/HealthDepartment/COVIDVaccineInformation.aspx. Those with questions may call 989-832-6380 or email MCDPH@co.midland.mi.us.
BIG RAPIDS  Officers with the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety responded to the following calls. All calls may not be reported. All suspects are assumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

 An assault in a motor vehicle was reported near Perry and Water Tower. Suspect allegedly slapped a female in the vehicle after bad mouthing the suspects new friend she met in Grand Rapids. Suspect was gone upon officers arrival. Contact was later made with her over the phone, who alleged the victim was in her face and wouldn't get back. Case will be forwarded for review.

 A civil dispute was reported in the 800 block of North Fourth. One male wanted another male kicked out of his apartment. He stated he allowed the male to live there. He was advised to seek eviction.

 Malicious destruction of property was reported in the 300 block of North Warren. While locking up, graffiti was found in the mens bathroom.

 Police responded to the 1100 block of Catherine for a check wellbeing request. A female was given a ride to the ER for mental health evaluation.

 A suspicious situation was reported in the 300 block of Maple Street. Homeowner had an audible alarm within the residence and requested law enforcement to check it out. Nothing suspicious was observed, and the house was secure. Homeowner did not want officers to go inside.

Saturday, Aug. 6

 Lost property was reported in the 200 block of Woodward Avenue. Caller reported losing his wallet somewhere in the city limits. Unknown where.

 Police responded to the 1100 block of Catherine Street for an assault complaint between a male and a female. The male claimed the female allegedly hit him in the face. The witness of the event said he did not see any assault and could not say if an assault happened or not. The complaint is to be sent for review.

Later, the police responded back for a civil complaint involving all three subjects. The caller was trying to kick everyone out of the residence and was advised that he needed to go through the court process.

Sunday, Aug. 7

 Officers responded to a dog at large complaint in the 1100 block of Catherine Street and cited the resident for his dog running loose and chasing a child.

 A suspicious situation was reported in the 1100 block of Platt Avenue. Complainant reported his vehicle stolen. According to police, the vehicle had been taken back by grandma because he allegedly had not put insurance on the vehicle, and she did not want to be cited.

 Police responded to the the 600 block of Oak for a disorderly patient in the ER.

 Police responded to the 900 block of Colburn. A male allegedly sent photos of several pills to his mother, stating he was going to kill himself. He was transported to ER for voluntary evaluation.

 Police were dispatched to Hemlock Park for a disorderly male, who allegedly was intoxicated and had urinated in public. Contact was made with the male who, according to police, was highly intoxicated, and in violation of his parole conditions. He was arrested for parole violation. The case will be forwarded to City Attorney for review on additional charges.

 Police responded to the 400 block of South Third Street for a report of a disorderly resident. The resident allegedly had become upset with staff after not being allowed to sit next to a male friend during a movie. She left for the evening with said friend.

Monday, Aug. 8

 Officers responded to check on the well-being of children in the 1100 block of Fuller Avenue. They were located with the mother and appeared not in distress.

 A civil dispute was reported in the 400 block Second Avenue. Officers responded to the ongoing civil issues between two residents. One reported being yelled at by the other.

 A property damage accident was reported near Clark Street and Perry Avenue.

 An assault was reported in the 400 block of South Third Avenue. Caller reported being assaulted by another resident during a verbal disagreement. Case to be submitted for review.

 Police responded to the 500 block of North Warren Avenue to assist in finding a juveniles parents and coordinating a ride home from the lunch program.

 Police executed a warrant arrest in the 400 block of South Third Avenue. While on another call, a male was found to have two failure to appear warrants from Kent and Newaygo counties.

 Criminal sexual conduct was reported in the 400 block of South Third Avenue. Victim reported being touched inappropriately by a male. Case is under investigation

 A missing juvenile was reported in the 1100 block of Catherine. A mother reported her preschool-aged son missing about 45 minutes after he was last seen. After searching area, the boy was located under a pile of clothes in a closet.
A new store has opened and joined the Caro community. Warehouse 81 hopes to fill the needs of small, local business owners.

Warehouse 81, which opened in July, is a wholesale warehouse that sells products from all over the country to businesses, allowing them to put items into their stores. The storefront has a variety of items including homemade wooden decor, tins, holiday decorations, clothes, and kitchen ware.

Were trying to cater to different business and have had good success so far, store Owner Amanda Langmaid said. Weve even had people come all the way from Clarkston and were drawing from all of Michigan.

This is the only warehouse in the state of Michigan, and it helps eliminate the long travel, shipping, and other needs for people to run their businesses. Langmaid, who is a business owner herself  she owns the Cutest Button Boutique in Sebewaing  travels to Illinois and Ohio to get about 90% of her home goods and other seasonal items.

Every state has about two or three warehouses, so business owners can go pick up their merchandise and go home, Langmaid said. But Michigan didnt have one and thats why I decided to start this one. With the way gas prices are, its not worth driving out to somewhere because you have to raise the prices of all your merchandise to accommodate the time and gas. Now its wonderful, I can just come to the store and get things from here.

The store has lots to offer, with different vendors selling their merchandise at the front. From Christmas and Halloween decor to kitchen rugs and jewelry, the warehouse has much to offer to businesses. Vendors come in and will set up a booth with their merchandise and will switch up things every couple months. Langmaid is hoping to get more vendors into her warehouse to fill space and make it an enjoyable and exciting experience for all.

I would love to expand, Langmaid said. If I could hit 50 vendors, I think I could have something for everybody, and Id have a lot more variety. When Im looking for vendors, I like to have something different than we already have in here. I want to have a good variety in stuff.

Buyers will be allowed to buy items in bulk, but also singular items too. Smaller stores that dont have space to buy and store items in a big number can shop for one or two items of something instead.

Although the store sells home goods items that can be put in homes, the warehouse is not open to the general public. Langmaid says that there are still ways to buy the merchandise that is sold at the store.

"It is for business owners only, but if they see something they want, all they have to do is contact the business page and we can tell them the closest place to buy the item, Langmaid said. We have a good variety of names, so if theres someone in the Thumb, well tell them the closest store they can buy it at.

I enjoy the people and listening to everybodys stories, Langmaid said. Everyones business is different and as a business owner myself, its nice to be able to hear what people are struggling with or doing well with. I think this will hopefully solve a lot of little gaps that businesses are having.

Warehouse 81, located in Caro, is open Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The storefront is still looking for more vendors as well to fill space.
Director of Content and Operations

Spencer McKee is OutThere Colorado's Director of Content and Operations. In his spare time, Spencer loves to hike, rock climb, and trail run. He's on a mission to summit all 58 of Colorado's fourteeners and has already climbed more than half.
Blue Canyon Technologies cubist test engineer Matthew Barrett works on a Blue Canyon Technologies avionics unit in the Infinity Lab at the companys new cubesat manufacturing facility on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, in Boulder, Colo.(Timothy Hurst/The Denver Gazette)
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - A $10 million loan from the UNs Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) will allow the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to scale up the procurement of fertilisers to support farmers in the restive Tigray region in northern Ethiopia, the agency announced on Monday
New York, US (PANA) - Greater investment in State institutions is critical to counter peace and security challenges in Africa, a senior UN official told the Security Council on Monday
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the Ethiopian Government Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS) on Tuesday appealed for US$73 million to provide food rations to over 750,000 refugees in Ethiopia, over the next six months
Nairobi, Kenya (PANA)  Kenyans queued to vote across most of the 46,210 polling centres countrywide with Presidential candidates amongst the early voters in Tuesday's poll, described by others as a defining moment for Kenya's democracy
Photo: (Photo : Getty images )

Angelina Jolie took to Instagram on Sunday to announce that her 17-year-old daughter will attend Spelman College this fall. The 47-year-old actress posted a photo of Zahara posing with some of her fellow students, some of whom were wearing Spelman College shirts as they celebrated the start of their college journey at a Historically Black College University (HBCU).

While the Jolie-Pitts are pretty private about their personal lives, Jolie would proudly post her children's accomplishments from time to time. She showed fans her trip to Cambodia with Shiloh Jolie-Pitt and her White House visit with Zahara, according to She Knows.

Spelman College

On her 13.3 million followers Instagram account, Jolie congratulated all new students starting this year, saying that it is such a special place and an honor to have a family member as a new Spelman girl.

The college is a historically Black women's liberal arts college in Atlanta, Georgia. Its recognized alumni include Pulitzer Prize winner Alice Walker, TV personality Rolonda Watts, actress Cassi Davis, and politician Stacey Abrams. The actress also got involved with the celebrations for the new students as they danced to the "Electric Boogie" remix. As per Newsweek, Phylicia Fant, an American music executive, and Spelman College alumni shared footage of the Oscar-winning actress joining the celebrations.

Meanwhile, fans praise the Oscar-winning actress for choosing a "historically Black" university for her daughter's education.

In March, Spelman College received a $2.3 million federal grant to upgrade the university's technology systems as part of a historic collaboration between 20 participating HBCUs in the country.

Classes are expected to start on Wednesday, August 17.

A comment said she loves how Jolie is stepping up and doing all of the typical college parent activities. Another commenter praised the actress for always stepping up as a parent. She further commended Jolie's love and guidance towards all her children, noting that it is not easy to look after six children of different ages and nature, ensuring they follow their dreams and be strong individuals.

Read Also: Reddit Offers Generous Tips to Mom Who Can't Afford Anything for Her Child's Birthday.

The Jolie-Pitt Children

Zahara Marley Jolie-Pitt, one of the adopted children of Jolie and Brad Pitt, is the second in the family to go to college. Maddox Chivan Jolie-Pitt was adopted in Cambodia in 2002, and in 2019, he went to Yonsei University in South Korea for college, taking up biochemistry.

The couple also adopted Pax Thien Jolie-Pitt from Vietnam in 2007 when the boy was three years old. He finished high school in 2021.

The estranged Jolie-Pitt couple had three other children, Shiloh Nouvel Jolie-Pitt, born in 2006 in Namibia, and twins Knox Leon and Vivienne Marcheline Jolie-Pitt, born in Nice, France, in 2008.

The Jolie-Pitt couple separated six years ago. Pitt was declared legally single three years ago. The estranged couple had a bitter custody battle for their children.

Daily Mail reports that Brad is now dating but not in a serious relationship.

Related Article: Celebrity Couple Nicole Kidman, Keith Urban Plan to Renew Wedding Vows and Adopt a Son
Photo: (Photo : DAVID MCNEW/AFP via Getty Images)

A 22-year-old Boston student taking a wilderness camp traning course was struck dead by lightning at the Teton Wilderness campground close to the Yellowstone National Park on Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022.

The companions of John D. Murphy tried to revive him with CPR for at least an hour until the emergency responders arrived. However, he was declared dead due to cardiac arrest.

Teton County Coroner Brent Blue had tried to determine if the lightning hit Murphy directly or if it passed to another object before him. According to the New York Post, Murphy was inside his tent when he was struck. A bolt of lighting packs more than 300 million volts, while an average household appliance has only 120 volts.

Another lightning victim was airlifted to a hospital in Idaho and was released the next day as his condition stabilized. Murphy and the injured were camping with nine other students of the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) and three camp leaders. Murphy had been completing an outdoor education and wilderness survival course.

Read Also: Trust-Fund Grandson Denied Temporary Freedom Before Trial for Killing His Rich Grandfather and Mom

"He died doing what he loved best"

Terry Watson, the president of the NOLS, issued a statement immediately after the death's confirmation. He said that this has been a sad day for NOLS and extended his condolences to the Murphy family.

Established in 1966, NOLS is renowned for its outdoor courses, often helping thousands of students a year in improving their backpacking, mountaineering, climbing and kayaking skills. However, over its 57-year history, there have been 13 fatalities due to accidents. This is the first case of lighting strike death in the history of the school.

In a statement to Jackson Hole News & Guide, the parents of the dead still thanked NOLS and said that, while they are rocked by grieff, they know that their son died "doing what he loved best" and surrounded by the beauty of nature.

"We know in his last moments he was with others who shared his passion for the wilderness and helping others," the family said.

NOLS extends support for remaining backpackers

Shana Tarter, the school's associate director for wilderness medicine, said that Murphy's group were on a 30-day wilderness trip. They were at the Teton Wilderness for about three to four days when a storm started brewing.

Due to the incident, two Teton County Search and Rescue Foundation members remained overnight with the rest of the backpackers because they could no longer fly out due to the inclement weather.

The following day, another helicopter flew in to evacuate the backpackers who said they won't be able to make it back by hiking due to emotional stress. Tarter said that NOLS also prioritized providing help to the remaining students and provided them with all the needs and support when they returned to the bases.

Meanwhile, the National Lightning Safety Council said that camping is the third most dangerous activity for lightining events. Murphy was the first lighthing death in Wyoming but the ninth across the U.S. for 2022.

Related Article: Son Shot Over Cold Fries at McDonald's; Heartbroken Mom Says She Needs Stronger Family Members to Lean On
Photo: (Photo : Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

The Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) has no plans to ease up on restrictions anytime soon with nearly 500 COVID-related deaths being reported every day in the United States on average.

The federal agency is expected to publish an updated summary of its COVID guidance within this week. According to a draft document that was reviewed by NBC News, there are no significant changes in the current advice to test, mask, or isolate.

The document is not final, though, and could change before its expected public release this week. According to NBC News data, average COVID case numbers hit their highest level of the current surge last week, when an average of more than 136,000 cases per day were recorded on July 29. That is certainly an undercount, though, because of home testing.

COVID cases no longer overwhelming hospital systems

Still, cases are no longer overwhelming hospital systems as they were early on in the COVID pandemic. The average number of beds filled with those patients who have the coronavirus has leveled off, and started declining last Saturday for the first time in more than three months.

Data showed that the number of reported daily deaths on average continue to slowly tick upward, with 477 recorded on Thursday, August 4. That was the highest seven-day average documented since the middle of April.

One person with knowledge of the plans of the CDC said that the fact that around 500 people are still dying every day due to the coronavirus is huge and does not bode well for any relaxation of COVID restrictions in the near future.

There is some hopefulness, however, among intensive care providers. Dr. Todd Rice, who is the director of Vanderbilt University Medical Center's Medical intensive care unit, said that there is definitely something different now and they have not seen a critical illness from COVID in probably three months.

Read Also: Tragedy in Illinois as Dad Who Lost Wife and 4 Children in Violent Car Crash Has Also Died

Hybrid immunity doing its part to limit worst consequences of COVID

Rice and others credited the decrease in people sick enough to be in hospital intensive care units in part to a growing level of population-wide immunity from COVID, either from infection, vaccination, or both.

Bill Hanage, who is an epidemiologist and associate professor at Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, said that they are hopeful that in the long run, the hybrid immunity is going to do a pretty good job at limiting the worst consequences of the virus.

Other advancements that appear to limit the impact of the coronavirus include treatments like monoclonal antibodies and Paxlovid. Hanage, who was not involved with the guidance of the CDC, said that it is reasonable to suggest that holding onto interventions is a good idea as they move into the fall and winter, which are likely to be worse.

Related Article: Red Alert for Child Health as 25 Million Kids Missed Routine Vaccinations Due to COVID Pandemic
Microsoft is warning that Windows 11 is subject to a bug that can cause data damage under certain specialized conditions, including writing data to encrypted drives using BitLocker. Unfortunately, the fix is slightly concerning, as Microsoft warns that it will slow performance for about a month or so.

The functions affected are two youve probably never heard of: either the AES XEX-based tweaked-codebook mode with ciphertext stealing (AES-XTS) or the AES with Galois/Counter Mode (GCM) (AES-GCM). As Toms Hardware noted, the processors impacted include Intels 10th-gen Ice Lake and 11th-gen Rocket Lake processors plus AMDs upcoming Zen 4 chips, otherwise known as the Ryzen 7000.

The problem is that both functions are used for data encryption and AES-XTS was specifically added to Windows 10 as the function underlying BitLocker encryption. BitLocker works with your PCs Trusted Platform Module (or TPM) to encrypt and protect your drive  if your laptop is lost or stolen, an attacker wouldnt be able to access your data without your PIN, your fingerprint, or your face via Windows Hello. The function is also used to secure encrypted flash drives, too.

If theres any good news, its that keeping your PC up to date may have mitigated the data-damage problem entirely. For one, Microsofts security note implies that only the original release of Windows 11 is susceptible and that the issue was addressed via a security release in June.

The other concern, however, is that Microsofts note warns that performance might be slowed for about one month after applying the update. (Microsoft does not explain why this is, or why the one-month period was chosen.) The affected applications include BitLocker plus enterprise load balancers and disk throughput on enterprise PCs.

If youve done the math, though, that puts the end of that degraded-performance period in mid-July or so. If youve kept your PC up to date, youre unlikely to be affected by either bug.

How do I know if my PC uses BitLocker?

Microsoft has said previously that BitLocker is only a feature thats built into the Pro versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11. If youve signed into a Windows 11 Pro PC with your Microsoft account, BitLocker is on by default. However, even Windows 11 Home PCs can use Windows built-in device encryption. Its not clear whether or not Device Encryption uses the AES-XTS function or not.

An easy way to check if your PC has BitLocker is to simply open the Start menu and type Manage BitLocker into the search box. If your PC does have BitLocker enabled, youll receive a Control Panel to tweak its settings. If you dont, Windows simply wont return the app. Make sure you have your BitLocker recovery key backed up. If youre signed in to your Microsoft account, its automatically stored in your account settings, which are accessible online.

If your PC doesnt have BitLocker, it may be eligible for device encryption anyway. Go to the Settings menu, then Update & Security > Device Encryption. If your PC can be encrypted, youll see a toggle to turn it off or on.

This Windows 11 Home PC is not formally encrypted via BitLocker, but is nevertheless still protected. Mark Hachman / IDG

How do I know if my drive has data damage?

As a user, if you havent noticed any problems with your hard drive or SSD, you probably dont need to worry. But if youre concerned, you can always manually scan your drives file system for errors.

To do so, simply open File Explorer and right-click on your PCs SSD or hard drive. The Properties subheading will open a menu where you can scan for errors.

Scan your local disk for errors by right-clicking it, then seelcting Properties. Mark Hachman / IDG

Microsoft also has a page devoted to fixing more severe problems associated with BitLocker-encrypted drives.
Zeepay, the leading cross-border payments company operating as a challenger mobile money company today announces a raise of US$10 million.



The medium-term debt raise, which forms part of its A.5 series, comes to support Zeepay in a bid to augment its fast growing remittance to wallet business. The raise was led by Symbiotics BV with US$9 million and supported by a Mauritius-based fund with US$1 million totalling US$10 million.



According to the Founder and Managing Director, Andrew Takyi-Appiah I, the raise was necessary and comes at the time when we are planning to increase our annual turnover from US$1.5 billion circa 2021 to US$200 billion over the next five years.



Godfried Boakye, CFO, mentioned that the raise had become mission critical as we expand our service offering and African expansion and well within a manageable Loan to value ratio of 9percent. This will help augment support from local African banks the likes of Ecobank, Fidelity Bank and Absa.



Kwabena Appenteng, Transaction Advisor at Verdant Capital, said: we are delighted to see the close of this component of the round, and urge local financial institutions and pension funds to find their niche, to enable them to participate alongside international lenders in the future as we work to deepen the African fintech ecosystem.



JLD & MB Legal Consultancy acted as legal counsel to Zeepay in connection with the funding. Zoe P. Takyi  Appiah, a senior partner of the firm mentioned, this is another notable milestone for Zeepay. Indeed, the company continues to break boundaries and expand its borders. We are delighted that this transaction has been realized and to have been a part of it.



About ZEEPAY



Zeepay is the fastest-growing FINTECH into Mobile Financial Services across Africa with Operations in Ghana and United Kingdom and terminating to 20 countries across Africa and with termination agreements in over 90 jurisdictions globally. We specialize in Remittance termination into mobile wallets and are completely network and partner agnostic.



Zeepay is a wholly-owned Ghanaian company, regulated in the UK by Financial Conduct Authority-FCA # 592538 and in Ghana by The Bank of Ghana- #00001 under the Payment Systems and Services Act, 2019 (Act 987).

Zeepay supports Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 and is considered a Financial Inclusion Company positioned to improve last mile access. Visit myzeepay.com for more information.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
While the challenges facing healthcare delivery, especially within Africa, are varied, one fundamental problem hospitals grapple with on a daily basis is the prolonged stay of patients after they have been discharged. Aside from increasing already-existing healthcare costs, this phenomenon causes overcrowding and increases the risk of morbidity among patients since they are more prone to get further illnesses.



The problem for the majority of these patients is raising the necessary funds to pay their medical bills, especially if they are the breadwinners of their families. In some very deprived communities, opinion leaders, including pastors, headteachers, and family heads, rely on the contributions of their constituents to provide support for hospitalised members of their community.



Hospitals across the country are forced to occasionally write-off these debts or have some flexible arrangements with families in order to make room for other people who need medical care. Individuals and organisations occasionally come to the rescue of these distressed patients, while some patients do the unimaginable by seneaking out of the hospital.



Through its Homecoming initiative, Vodafone Ghana has been consistent in helping the country address this challenge. For a decade now, the charity arm of the organisation, Vodafone Ghana Foundation, has gone to the aid of over 3,000 patients in various hospitals across the country.



Besides reuniting families, this remarkable initiative has given back hope to families and communities as patients have gone back to their livelihoods and are able to fend for their families, while some are now able to pursue their dreams. The joy of families who have been impacted by this initiative is met with tears of joy and usual euphoria in the entire community as patients return home.



One of the beneficiaries of this initiative is five-year-old Joseph Sackey, who was treated for severe burns. He spent eight weeks in the hospital because his family abandoned him in their efforts to raise the required funds. Joseph was reunited with his family in Weija, Accra in 2013.



In 2018, Vodafone went to the aid of William Mehuadzo, a victim of the Nkonya and Alavanyo conflict. William, who is a farmer, was shot from behind while working on his farm one early morning. He became unconscious and was rushed to a nearby hospital and then transferred to Korle-Bu. He prolonged his stay like other patients because raising the said amount for his treatment was a challenge until the Vodafone Ghana Foundation came to his rescue.



The Vodafone Ghana Foundation continues to receive commendations from stakeholders within the healthcare delivery space. The Director of Ghana Health Service, Dr Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, in a recent remark, said:

"Through this initiative, Vodafone is changing lives, putting smiles on the faces of people and reuniting families. I believe this great gesture represents what the Vodafone Foundation evidently stands for, bringing relief and support to the vulnerable in our communities.'



Vodafone Homecomings contribution to decongesting hospitals during this pandemic cannot be overstated. In 2020 and 2021, Vodafone sent more than 700 patients home from hospitals in all sixteen regions of Ghana. This also helped slow the spread of the pandemic in a way.



In its efforts to find a lasting solution to this challenge, the Vodafone Ghana Foundation has registered and renewed cards for almost 1,000 beneficiaries on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to enable them to continue to receive quality healthcare at a very reduced cost.



The Vodafone Ghana Foundation and Sustainability Lead, Amaris N.A. Perby said:

"Vodafone Ghana Foundation is dedicated to improving livelihoods and communities throughout the country. Healthcare is one of our focal areas for the Foundations strategic orientation, and we will continue to champion this course with our various health initiatives.



Many health institutions have benefitted from Vodafones benevolence. These include, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, 37 Military Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi South Regional Hospital, Sunyani Regional Hospital, Worawora Government Hospital, Jasikan District Hospital, Bibiani Government Hospital, Holy Family Hospital, Goaso Municipal Hospital, St. Joseph Hospital, Nkwanta, Ledzokuku-Krowor Municipal Assembly (LEKMA), Shai Osudoku Hospitals, Eastern Regional Hospital, Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Ho Teaching Hospital, and Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital.



The 2022 edition of Vodafone Homecoming has just begun, and it has already reached out to patients in selected hospitals within the Northern Region.





Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Mr. Sule Salifu, Tamale Metropolitan Chief Executive has expressed concern about the rising rate of prostitution in the Tamale Metropolis.



He said it had become a bane of authorities because all attempts to combat it had failed, adding, it had become appealing to both local people and foreigners.



He expressed concern when addressing this year's International Youth Week celebration in Tamale, organized by the National Youth Authority and partners.



Sex workers flood major streets in the metropolis all night, especially around the Police Barracks, Bank of Ghana and Victory Cinema areas.



Mr. Salifu said the sex workers had also recruited young men in the city and placed them in strategic locations to protect and inform them about any threats to their night-time activities and urged landlords and landladies to thoroughly investigate their tenants' backgrounds before renting out their rooms to help reduce such crimes.



He warned that the security agencies would soon come after them since their activities had effects on the younger generation.

Source: GNA









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The Appiatse Support Fund had accrued GH45 million as of yesterday, August 8, 2022.



The amount is, however, GH25 million short of the GH70 million estimated for the rebuilding of the community.



The Chairperson of the Appiatse Support Fund Committee, Rev. Dr Joyce Rosalind Aryee, who made this known, said the remaining amount must be mobilised as soon as possible for the project.



She, therefore, appealed to individuals and corporate entities to donate to the fund to help fill the gap.



Dr Aryee was speaking during a call on her by officials of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), who donated GH50,000 to the fund in Accra yesterday.



The GRA team was led by the Assistant Commissioner and Technical Aide to the Commissioner-General, Dominic Dokbilla Naab.



Decision



Mr Naab said the GRA's decision to donate to the fund was because the people of Appiatse were taxpayers and so it was important to help restore their livelihoods.



"If they have their livelihoods back, they will contribute more in terms of taxes for national development," he said, adding that since the authority was a state entity that mobilises revenue for national development, it was important to support efforts in that direction.



He called for more support to raise the needed funds to ensure that the Appiatse community was restored.



Commendation



Rev. Dr Aryee commended the GRA for the donation, describing the intervention as a step in the right direction.



She said the implementation committee had made considerable progress in its work but needed enough funds to deliver on its mandate.



"In the main area where the disaster destroyed every building, the committee has got architects to design good models for the buildings there, ranging from one-bedroom houses with kitchen and bathroom to seven-bedroom houses," the chairperson added.



Recall



Maxam Ghana Limited, the company at the centre of the explosion that occurred at Appiatse in the Prestea Huni-Valley municipality in the Western Region, was fined $1 million, plus other costs, totalling $6 million.



President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo ring-fenced the fine to be used for the reconstruction of the Appiatse community.

Source: graphic.com.gh









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Nigeria is threatening to withdraw from the regional group, Ecowas, following allegations that Nigerian candidates are being sidelined for jobs and promotions.



Some in Ecowas have also complained of nepotism - alleging that relatives and cronies are sometimes selected for posts.



Sidie Tunis, the Ecowas parliamentary speaker, has ordered all recruitment to the organisation be suspended and created a panel to investigate alleged malpractice to report its findings within a week.



The Ecowas parliament leadership has said it will uphold and protect the rights of all citizens of the community to aspire to positions in any Ecowas institution, in line with the provisions of the bodys founding protocols.



The Economic Community of West African States, Ecowas, was established in 1975 to promote economic integration among its 15 member countries.

Source: BBC









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General Overseer of the International Central Gospel Church has prayed for Gods protection for the nations Executive, Legislature and Judiciary.



Pastor Mensa Otabil also prayed for the African continent to rise up and occupy its rightful place.



He was speaking at the climax of the churchs 5-day Greater Works Conference in Accra attended by thousands of Christian faithful from Ghana and across the world.



Pastor Otabil declared that the future of Ghana will be far more glorious than the present.



Quoting scriptures from the book of Haggai 2:6-9, the theologian stated that in a little while, Ghana and Africa will witness a divine shaking and rearrangement that will cause systems to shift in their favour.



The future shall be so glorious that there will be no comparison with where we are today, he prophesied.



His message titled, Its going to be Glorious he recalled the prophet Jeremiahs prophecy to the children of Israel about captivity and the rebuilding process that brought liberation.



Pastor Otabil declared, God is going to do something for you and its not going to be a repetition of what has been done. Its going to be more glorious



He enjoined the congregation to document and archive their current situation because people may not believe where they have been when the transformation takes place.



The conference climaxed with an anointing service, after which Pastor Otabil and Bishop Tudor Bismark, a guest speaker, pronounced the blessings of God on attendees.



Earlier in the week, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo of the Kingsway International Christian Center in London preached about stepping into significance. He challenged all present to reach beyond where they were and determine to make a greater impact on their world.



A cross-section of participants, after the conference, said this years Greater Works had been the very best. They particularly commended the messages, security, music, punctuality, technical direction, and overall organization.



Greater Works is the annual convocation of the International Central Gospel Church that climaxes the annual period of fasting and prayer known as 40 Days of Power. This years conference took place at the churchs new campus, Christ Temple East in Teshie.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Seasoned Journalist, Kwesi Pratt Jnr., has shared concerns with the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) about fears over imminent collapse of local businesses due to the cedi depreciation and other related market forces.



GUTA has threatened to embark on demonstration against the government over the free fall of the local currency against foreign currencies, chiefly the US Dollar.



The President of GUTA, Dr. Joseph Obeng, in an interview published by the Insight newspaper stated. "the exarcerbating tension that is coming from the trading Committee is huge . . . They believe that if nothing is done about their businesses, their businesses are going to collapse in perpetuity so they are calling for a serious deomnstration".



He feared local businesses will crash to the ground should the cedi keep depreciating.



"Businesses have reached a situation where their survival is seriously threatened", so they are "calling on the government, as a matter of urgency, to reconvene the Foreign Exchange Committee that was set up a few years ago by the Finance Ministry which involved all relevant stakeholders, to help find an immediate solution", he further said in a press release.



Reacting to the GUTA grievances, Mr. Pratt also asked what the government is doing to salvage the local businesses and to whip up interest in local products.



He wondered why Ghana still imports commodities that can be manufactured in the nation by local producers and manufacturers.



"What technology do we use to manufacture handkerchief that Ghana has to import handkerchief? When you take chewing stick and take day nursery kids to pick up a kitchen knife and carve out toothpicks, can't they do it? But we also import toothpick," he exclaimed.



Adding that Ghana also imports "guinea fowls from Denmark", he asked "how will your currency be stable?"



Mr. Pratt called for strict measures to improve the local market and discourage imports.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Sefwi Bekwai Traditional Council has appealed to President Nana Akufo Addo and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to ensure that justice is served to the 27-year-old woman gruesomely murdered in the area some months ago.



The deceased, Martha Tetteh, a resident of Kumasi in the Ashanti Region was alleged to have travelled to Sefwi Bekwai on June 27, 2022, to consult a spiritualist but met her untimely death.



Three suspects have so far been arrested by the Western North Regional Police Command, one of whom is alleged to be the Sanaahene of Sefwi Bekwai Traditional Area, last month came as a surprise to the chiefs.



Speaking at a press conference at the forecourt of the traditional palace, the acting President of Sefwi Bekwai Traditional Area, Katakyie Kwasi Afful II, who doubles as the Benkumhene of Sefwi Bekwai Traditional Area and Chief of Sefwi Apenkrom expressed the displeasure of the council about the rampant murder cases in the area.



The traditional leaders, thus, demanded the whereabouts of the missing head of the lady (Martha Tetteh) from the police and appealed to the IGP, the President, prosecutors and judges to allow justice to prevail.



Their appeal is against the backdrop of an allegation that some elements within the council wanted to use the money to influence the trial of the case.



The Paramount Queen Mother of Sefwi Bekwai, Obaahemaa, Nana Abena Aniwaa II, expressed the belief that the crime could not have been executed by the three suspects alone and that there were other accomplices.



She, therefore, appealed to the prosecution to make all efforts to trace and fish out the rest of the perpetrators for justice to be served and warned town folks linking her to the arrest of the Sanaahene of Sefwi Bekwai Traditional Council Kwasi Kokoreh to stop and allow the police to do their investigations.



The Mmrantene of Sefwi Bekwai Traditional Area, Nana Kwesi Apoh, who spoke on behalf of the youth in Sefwi Bekwai and its environs also pleaded with the Police to try as much as possible to arrest all the perpetrators who murdered the 27-year-old woman to redeem their image.



He added that fair judgement about the case would go a long way to serve as a lesson to others and save the people of Sefwi land from a global tag of murder.





Source: GNA









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Police have arrested two persons including a minor for allegedly robbing and murdering Daniel Osei-Mensah, a final year student of Tweneboah Kodua Senior High School.



According to a statement from the police, they arrested suspect Eric Anning and the minor with the support of some members of the Fiankoma community in the Ashanti Region.



The two are said to have perpetrated the act on Friday, August 5, robbing the deceased of his motorbike and burying him in a cocoa farm at Benebene near Fiankoma.



Following their arrest, the suspect together with his minor accomplice led the police to the scene where the body of the deceased was found, the statement from the police said.



The body was removed and deposited at the St Peters Catholic Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy.



Suspect Eric Anning is said to have sustained a deep cut on his right hand during the robbery and so was taken to the hospital for medical attention.



The two will, however, be arraigned before court on Tuesday, August 9.



The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, is said to have spoken to the parents of the deceased to commiserate with them on behalf of the Police administration.



We would like to commend the people of Fiankoma for their support and we urge other communities to continue supporting the police to ensure the safety of everyone, the statement signed by CSP Grace Akrofi-Ansah, the Director of Public Affairs of the Ghana Police Service, concluded.



The deceased was said to be operating the motorbike business at Manson Odaho in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region.

Source: 3news









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Vodafone Ghana donated GHS10,000 to the Ada Traditional Council to support this years Asafotufiami festival celebrations. The donation is part of the Telcos commitment to promoting Ghana's rich cultural heritage, as well as strengthening its ties with the communities in which it operates.



Asafotufiami, which is celebrated by the people of Ada in the Eastern Region, commemorates the bravery of the ancestors and founding fathers who fought tirelessly and sacrificed to establish the town.



Speaking during the donation, Samuel Gyimah, Executive Head for Accra East, Vodafone Ghana, said:

"Vodafone Ghana is pleased to be a part of the Asafotufiami festival. As a business, we strive to establish and maintain enduring relationships with various communities across the country, which include Ada, in order to transform lives and promote development. We wish you a wonderful celebration and look forward to strengthening our relationship with the chiefs and people of Ada. "



The Division Queen Mother of Adibiawe, Naana Adikia Adi I, who received the donation on behalf of the traditional council, thanked Vodafone Ghana for their unwavering support and expressed her gratitude to the company.



The festival has become one of the most highly anticipated festivals in the country and attracts thousands of patrons. This years edition, which is the 85th, is themed "Uniting the Ada State through our cultural heritage and use of our natural resources."

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Electoral Commission of Ghana has dispelled reports that it took a unilateral decision on a new Constitutional Instrument (C.I.) on voters' registration which has been laid before Parliament.



The EC wants to use the Ghana Card as the only source document for continuous voter registration.



However, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other stakeholders have opposed this decision insisting it will disenfranchise a lot of Ghanaians.



Others have questioned why the EC didn't engage various stakeholders before coming out with the decision.



But speaking in an interview on Neat FM's 'Me Man Nti' programme, Dr Bossman Asare, Deputy Chairman of the Commission in charge of Corporate Services, said the Commission met with all stakeholders except the NDC.



He indicated that the NDC was invited to IPAC meetings held on the issue but failed to attend.



"We met with all the political parties and other stakeholders to deliberate on using the Ghana card to register,

it was unanimously agreed . . . NDC was invited but they didn't attend . . ." he pointed out.







Meanwhile, the NDC has vowed to use all legitimate means to oppose the decision by the Electoral Commission (EC) to use the Ghana Card as the sole identification document for voter registration.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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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.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed optimism that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) will make history in the 2024 general election by breaking the eight-year political rule cycle.



That, he said, could be achieved if the government remained resolute and held on to the momentum of the ongoing developmental drive.



He noted that despite the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia-Ukraine war on the economy, if the government did not listen to "unnecessary comments" and remained focused and worked hard, it would put the NPP in a good position to break the eight-year political cycle in 2024.



Breaking the eight is very feasible. Many people forget that in 2008 when we lost, we nearly broke the eight if you look at the vote margin. Overall, we were short by 40,000 votes. That was a tiny margin so it tells you that if NPP puts things together, we can make history," he noted.



President Akufo-Addo said this in a radio interview with Nalerigu-based Nobya FM as part of his tour of the North East Region last Saturday (August 6, 2022)



Legacies



Addressing the people via the local radio, he said it was extremely important for Ghanaians to repose their confidence in the NPP in 2024 because the "NPP is the only political party that has the capacity to develop the country systematically".



He said it would be his greatest legacy to leave the party to go over that historic hurdle, while ensuring the peace and development of the country.



"I came to office with Ghana as a peaceful and united country; I will like to leave that also as part of my achievement in office. I also want to see a Ghana which is growing rapidly again with the seven to eight per cent growth rate we went through in my first term in office to open opportunities for young people and to have a very strong educational structure," he said.



"I will like to be in a situation whereby in 10 years down the lane people will remember that Akufo-Addo's period saw Ghana expand and grow and become stronger," he said.



Terrorists scare



On the recent threats of terrorism attacks, President Akufo-Addo called for collective efforts to ward off possible threats of terrorism from neighbouring countries.



He admonished the people to remain vigilant and report suspicious characters in their localities to the security agencies.



Courtesy call



Earlier, the President paid a courtesy call on the Overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area, Nayiri Naa Bohagu Mahami Abdulai Sheriga, to kick start his tour of the region.



Naa Bohagu Sheriga lauded the President for initiating a number of projects which were impacting the lives of the people.



He also thanked the President for appointing the Member of Parliament (MP) for Walewale, Zuweira Lariba Abudu, as Minister-designate for Gender, Children and Social Protection.



As part of the tour, President Akufo-Addo also paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Yunyoo, Naa Dauda Yamyia Tooka II, at his palace.

Source: Graphiconline









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His Excellency President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, supported by the Deputy CEO of the Youth Employment Agency, Alhaji Ibrahim Bashiru and a number of ministers, has commissioned a newly built multi-purpose North East Regional Office of the Agency.



The office is to aid the new Headquarters of the agency in the North East Region to begin full operations and in line with the President's vision of job creation, decentralisation and infrastructural development, actualize equitable implementation of the "One Million Jobs" agenda.



President Akufo-Addo, who on the occasion also commissioned another newly built magnificent edifice to serve as the administrative head of the North East Region, was elated at the development of infrustructure at the Region.



Speaking at a brief ceremony to mark the commissioning, President Akufo-Addo called on all and sundry to support the employment agenda of his government.



He believes this initiative will help maintain peace in the Region and the country at large as well as bring about development.



Alhaji Ibrahim Bashiru, Deputy CEO in charge of Operations at the Youth Employment Agency acting on behalf of the CEO Lawyer Justin Frimpong Kodua thanked the President for his resourcefulness and support for the agency since 2017.



Alhaji Ibrahim Bashiru pointed out a deficiency which impeded the operations and effective implementation of modules of the agency that had been infested with corruption in the previous years.



"Management took a bold decision of revamping and reforming the Agency into an enviable one, a result of which we are experiencing today", he said.



According to Mr. Bashiru, two of such Regional offices have been completed in the Oti, Western North and Ahafo Regions with others at various stages of completion in other Regions and districts.



He explained that all these are intended to bring life to the agency's innovative programmes like the Agric-based Flagship projects, YEA Jobcentre, Artisan Directory, CHWS etc.

Mr. Bashiru further assured the President and the entire country of consistent hardwork and innovation to bring more development and create more jobs for the youth of Ghana.



North East Regional Director of the Youth Employment Agency, Nurudeen Mohammed was thankful to the President, Lawyer Frimpong Kodua and Ibrahim Bashiru for their immense support and bringing the agency closer to the people.



The event was also graced by the Overlord of the Mamprugu traditional area, Naa Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, North East Regional Minister Mr. Zakaria Yidana, Local Government Minister Mr. Dan Botwe, other cabinet ministers, Presidential staffers, staff of YEA among others.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reacted to a public call for him to reshuffle his appointees, especially ministers of state and says, he has no immediate plans of heeding to those calls.



To him, the output of the ministers was consistent with the expectations and therefore there is no need to reshuffle them.



For all you know, it is people who want to destabilise my government or people who are looking for jobs, who are behind those calls, he said.



President Akufo-Addo made the reaction in a radio interview with the Tamale-based Radio North Star on Monday [August 8, 2022], as part of his tour of the Northern Region this week.



"The issue of reshuffling or performance of my ministers is a daily pre-occupation, I'm required on a daily basis to ask myself whether a particular minister is up to the mark.



"I am the final authority and if they are not up to the mark, I'm required to act. So if they are up to expectations then I don't have any reason to heed to the calls for reshuffling," President Akufo-Addo said.



"...NDC wants to destabilise your government, there are people who are also looking for jobs," he said amidst laughter.



I'm not disputing that there is quite a lot of attention there, but I also think that there is a need for us to have rather a holistic look at matters relating to reshuffling of ministers and other government appointees.

Source: Graphiconline









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Former President, John Dramani Mahama has said the continuous depreciation of Ghanas cedi "in recent days, clearly shows that the mid-year review of the 2022 budget failed to win back the confidence of the investor community".



The cedi as of August 9 is selling at GH9.12 to the US Dollar.



The former President in a message on his Facebook post wrote:



"There appears to be no end to the problems with the Ghanaian economy, with the recent downgrade to CCC+/C Junk status.



"The steep depreciation of the Ghana Cedi in recent days, clearly shows that the mid-year review of the 2022 budget failed to win back the confidence of the investor community and the Ghanaian public.



"Unfortunately, no credible remedial plans have been put forward by the government to salvage the economy.



"A national dialogue on the economy, bringing some of our best brains together will serve us well, even as we prepare for debt restructuring and negotiation of an IMF programme."



S&P Global Ratings in a statement issued on Friday, August 5, 2022, said though government has taken steps towards consolidating the fiscal deficit, including the recent passage of the Exemptions bill, high borrowing costs and softening growth make it difficult to put debt to GDP on a downward path.



After a careful assessment of the economy, S&P also reviewed the countrys economic outlook as negative. The negative outlook, reflects Ghanas limited commercial financing options, and constrained external and fiscal buffers.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The General Secretary of the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia believes President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is facing some spiritual attacks that have left him clueless on how to deal with his government.



According to him, the President appears to be careless of his bad leadership and non-performing appointees over the years.



General Mosquito as affectionately called in politics told NEAT FMs morning show, 'Ghana Montie', that something is controlling the President [Nana Akufo-Addo].



He continued, some combined spiritual forces have entered his [President Nana Addo] head. He is being manipulated and not bothered to do the right thing to save this country.



Johnson Asiedu Nketia's comment comes after President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo accused NDC members of wanting a reshuffle in his government.



According to the President, persons calling for the reshuffle of his Ministers may be persons looking for job opportunities and also some NDC members whose actions may be aimed at undermining the government.



The calls come for all kinds of reasons; NDC wanting to destabilize the government is one. There are people who are also looking for jobs, President Nana Addo said during a radio interview on North Star radio in Tamale as part of his tour of the Northern Region this week.



Despite the call for a reshuffle, the President rather praised his appointees for their excellent performance over the years.



Many of them for me, have done outstanding work. Their output has been considerable, and that is what I look at.



If the output measures expectations, then I dont have any strong reasons to heed the call, he noted



Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana









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Finance expert Joe Jackson has warned the government to take the recent downgrade of Ghana's credit ratings seriously and not politicize it.



He urged the government to bring everybody on board, including members of the opposition National Democratic Congress, to help find solutions to the current difficulties in the country.



In an interview on TV3 monitored by GhanaWeb, Mr Jackson added that Ghana was downgraded because the government failed to show the international community that it was ready to take the hard decisions to get the country out of the current difficulties.



"We need to call a bipartisan SoS on the economy; otherwise, we are going to default on our debts; otherwise, our foreign exchange reserves are going to come to naught. And we are going to face [the] inability to export fuel, inability to import other essentials that we require and a really drastic crash in our standards of living.



"We have got to signal to the international economy and those investors who will give us money that we are serious about facing our problems. In my opinion, the budget review did not do enough. We still have the scared cards that we are not touching. We have refused to review Free SHS; we haven't taken an axe to our expenditure as we should.



"This (the downgrade) is not a surprise; this is another step further down the road to disaster. This is not something to sit down and take for granted. This is not the time to play those akin games; you play with your partisan politics. This time is crunch time for the economy of Ghana," he said.



On Friday, August 5, 2022, S&P, an American credit rating agency, pushed Ghana's debt further into speculative territory, lowering its foreign and local currency sovereign ratings to CCC+/C from B-/B.



According to a report by marketwatch.com, S&P said its outlook for the country remains negative, "reflecting Ghana's limited commercial financing options, and constrained external and fiscal buffers."



The CCC+/C rating implies that Ghana is considered a "junk" country in terms of investment, and any investor who buys a bond issued by the Government of Ghana is at a high risk of not getting their investment.



But the Ministry of Finance has said it is disappointed with the recent downgrade of Ghana's credit rating by S&P Global Ratings.



The ministry, in a statement, indicated that the downgrade was not fair because despite implementing pragmatic policies, revisions and other measures in the 2022 budget, ongoing global external developments have significantly impacted Ghana's economy.

Source: Ghanaweb









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has described as "fake", media reports suggesting he was interfering in the upcoming Nigerian presidential elections.



He said: "I have written no such letter to the APC leader, and it will not occur to me to do so. Ghana and Nigeria boast of decades of cordial, strong and brotherly relations, and I am not going to be the one to interfere in the internal affairs and politics of Nigeria".



In a tweet he wrote:





My attention has been drawn to a disturbing post making the rounds on social media, where it is alleged I have written to the 2023 presidential candidate of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to give Peter Obi a chance and seek treatment for his health. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/qdDkyNNbtz  Nana Akufo-Addo (@NAkufoAddo) August 9, 2022







This is completely false and mischievous, with no iota of truth whatsoever in it. 2/3  Nana Akufo-Addo (@NAkufoAddo) August 9, 2022



















Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Sarah Adwoa Safo, the Member of Parliament for Dome-Kwabenya has been celebrating her husband, Hanny Mouhtiseb on their 4th wedding anniversary.



In a post on social media Monday, the MP who was recently fired as the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection by President Akufo-Addo wrote:



Happy Anniversary my Love and Joy Hanny.



I can't believe it's been four years of marital bliss already.



Time they say flies when you are having fun and our marriage has been a trite definition of that.



These past four years with you has given me some of my best and fondest memories of my life and I am grateful to God for bringing us together.



You're a great husband and a wonderful father and it's been a pleasure to share the last four years of my life with you.



Thank you for being my rock and strength especially this past year.



You've been the silver lining in what has been a stormy year.



You have touched my heart in more ways than I imagined possible and I love you more and more with each passing year.



Heres to many more years filled with Love, Joy and Eternal bliss.



I will always love you my dear Hanny. Happy 4th Anniversary.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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In 2021, the Noyam African Dance Institute teamed up with ME Dance Company and Conception Dance Africa from UK and Grenada respectively with support from the British Council.



The collaboration leveraged available technology to produce Oceans of Independence, an experimental dance piece performed simultaneously with three different countries across three different time zones in the COVID-19 era.



After a successful experiment last year, Noyam African Dance Institute (Ghana), ME Dance Professional Company, ME Dance Youth and Graduate Company, and Conception Dance Theatre (Grenada) have been joined this year by Eloquent Praise Dance Company, Kidderminster College, amongst others at the Birmingham 2022 Festival in the United Kingdom.



The festival, which forms as part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games currently ongoing in Birmingham, will be presenting Chain Stories; an exciting site-specific performance telling the story of those who came to contact with the chains made in the Black Country, and how that links the region to Commonwealth Countries.



Reflecting over the weeks of intensive rehearsal at the Newhampton Arts Centre, the director of the Noyam African Dance institute, Nii-Tete Yartey stated, "It is sad to think that years ago people were captured from their homes, put in chains, and sent across the ocean against their will. However, we are happy to be able to use dance and music to tell the stories of real-life people who fought for equality as well as the struggles and pain of those who were affected.



For Noyam African Dance Institute, the journey from West Africa, Ghana to the United Kingdom to perform at the Birmingham Festival 2022 presents an opportunity to project not only Ghanas traditional dances but also importantly, its vibrant and calculative contemporary dance form.



This event is sponsored by the British Council, Arts Council England, Canal & River Trust, and Black Country Touring. The project is also hosted by ME Dance UK, and directed and choreographed by Marica Edwards (UK), Nii-Tete Yartey (Ghana) and Cecilia Griffith (Grenada).







Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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WestJet, Canadas second-largest airline, announced Monday that it will, for the first time in its history, be offering regular flights between Penticton Regional Airport and Vancouver International Airport. The flights will be offered six days a week starting Feb. 17. WestJet and Pacific Coastal Airlines have teamed up to offer the service. On hand for Mondays announcement were, from left, WestJet customer service agent Gena Lowe, Penticton MLA Dan Ashton, WestJet executive Jared Mikosh-Gerk, Penticton Mayor John Vassalaki, Penticton and Wine Country Chamber of Commerce vice-president Lyndie Hill and WestJet customer service agent Marianne Muscolow.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland speaks to reporters before heading to Question Period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Thursday, June 23, 2022. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang
Quebec's provincial flag flies on a flag pole in Ottawa on June 30, 2020. A bailiff was attempting to seize property at the Gatineau, Que. residence of a Senegalese diplomat to pay for a judgement against her when she was detained and allegedly beaten by police.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
MBABANE  In an inexplicable incident, a man of Ekutsimleni requested his mother to assist him in reading the Bible and allegedly stabbed her with a spear in the shoulder.

Ester Sigubudvu Motsa (60) survived the incident and her son, Simanga Motsa, was arrested and charged with attempted murder. The charge sheet states that Simanga intended to kill his mother when he stabbed her with the spear in the right shoulder. On the day of the incident, according to Ester, Simanga approached her in the evening at around 5pm and requested her to assist him to read the Bible. While preparing to read the Bible, she said Simanga drew a spear and stabbed her in the right shoulder.

Ester is said to have fallen after being stabbed and the spear remained lodged in her shoulder. She attempted to remove it but her son, she stated, allegedly pressed it further into her. Ester said she thought Simanga wanted to finish her off and she called for help. Yebantfwabami, sewungibulele Simanga (my children, Simanga is killing me), she shouted. Ester said her other son, Gcina, came to her rescue and tried to disarm Simanga. They fought over the spear and Gcina called Sambulo Motsa, who arrived and they were able to disarm Simanga of the spear. Gcina is expected to inform the court that the accused person is his brother. He will state that on the day of the incident, he heard his mother shouting for help in her house and quickly responded.

disarming

When he arrived, according to Gcina, he found Simanga holding the spear. Their mother had a stab wound in the right shoulder and Gcina said he called Sambulo, with whom they were successful in disarming the accused person of the weapon. Simanga allegedly ran away after being disarmed and their mother was rushed to Dvokolwako Health Centre. Ester is said to have called one of her church members, Lucky Lokotfwako, and informed him that on the fateful day, her son had stabbed her with a spear. Lokotfwako and his wife are said to have proceeded to Esters homestead and when they arrived, they were informed that she had been rushed to hospital. He said he questioned Simanga on why he had stabbed his mother and he could not give a satisfactory response. He grabbed the accused and arrested him and took him to Mliba Police Station, reads Simangas indictment.

The investigating officer, Detective Constable Mfanzile Dlamini of Mliba Police Station, is one of the witnesses in the matter. He recorded a statement from Ester and the hospital. He said he found Ester in a critical condition at the health centre. Another witness in the matter is a medical practitioner, Dr Kibwe Wa Kibwe, who was based at the health centre. In total, the Crown has lined up six witnesses to prove its case against the accused person. The matter is pending in court.
Head to Morocco From September 2 for the 2022 Marrakech Poker Open

August 09, 2022 Matthew Pitt Editor

The famous Casino de Marrakech will be packed to the rafter from September 2 through September 11 when the Marrakech Poker Open returns with a bustling 23 tournament schedule.

Casino de Marrakech is no stranger to hosting prestigious poker festivals. In 2019, the PokerNews Live Reporting team were on the ground for the WPTDeepStacks Main Event, which drew in 545 entrants, who were all outlasted by Spain's Alejandro Roman. The Spaniard walked away with DH 1,100,000 ($114,880).

More recently, in January 2020, the World Series of Poker (WSOP) International Circuit stopped off at Casino de Marrakech. It's DH 15,000 buy-on Main Event saw Italy's Samiyel Duzgun outlast 624 opponents and scoop DH 1,600,000 ($169,018).

From September 2-11, the excellent staff at Casino de Marrakech are doing everything in their power to make the 2022 Marrakech Poker Open a roaring success. The festival kicks off with the MPO Opener, a two-day event costing DH 4,000 (400) to enter.

The DH 5,000 (500) MPO Warm-Up Deepstack follows the opener before the crown jewel of the Marrakech Poker Open, the DH 13,200 (1,300) buy-in Main Event shuffles up and deals. There are two starting flights in the MPO Main Event, running on September 8 and September 9. Everyone sits down with a generous helping of 30,000 chips and play to a 40-minute clock. Re-entries are permitted on each flight up to the end of the tenth level, which is when late registration slams shut.

Sandwiched between the MPO Main Event and the crowning of its champion are the DH 20,000 (2,000) buy-in High Roller, the DH 30,000 (3,000) Super High Roller, and a host of other exciting side events, including a progressive bounty, classic bounty, Monster Stack, and a short-handed tournament.

The 2022 Marrakech Poker Open Schedule

Date Time Event Buy-in (MAD) Buy-in (EUR) Fri 2 Sep 4:00 p.m. #01 MPO  Opener Day 1A DH 4,000 8:00 p.m. #02 Sat Last Chance Opener DH 500 Sat 3 Sep 4:00 p.m. #01 MPO  Opener Day 1B DH 4,000 8:00 p.m. #03 Sat MPO Warm-Up Deepstack DH 600 Sun 4 Sep 4:00 p.m. #01 MPO  Opener Day 2 7:00 p.m. Sat MPO Turbo & Warm-Up Deepstack DH 850 Mon 5 Sep 4:00 p.m. NLH Turbo Event DH 3,000 9:00 p.m. #06 Sat & Cash MP Seepstack DH 1,200 Tue 6 Sep 4:00 p.m. #07 MPO Warm-Up Deepstack DH 5,000 9:00 p.m. #08 Big Sat MPO Main & HR Package DH 3,000 Wed 7 Sep 2:00 p.m. #07 MPO Warm-Up Deepstack Day 2 2:00 p.m. #09 Turbo Sat MPO High Roller DH 2,000 3:00 p.m. #10 MPO Classic of Poker DH 3,000 4:00 p.m. #11 MPO High Roller DH 20,000 7:00 p.m. #12 Turbo Sat MPO Main Event DH 2,000 Thu 8 Sep 3:00 p.m. #11 MPO High Roller Day 2 4:00 p.m. #13 MPO Main Event Day 1A DH 13,200 5:00 p.m. #14 Progressive Bounty DH 2,300 8:00 p.m. #15 Last Chance Sat MPO Main Event DH 2,000 Fri 9 Sep 1:00 p.m. MPO Main Event Day 1B Dh 13,200 5:00 p.m. #16 MPO Progressive High Roller Bounty DH 6,000 8:00 p.m. Sat & Cash Monster Stack DH 1,600 Sat 10 Sep 12:00 p.m. #13 MPO Main Event Day 2 2:00 p.m. #18 Monster Stackl DH 6,000 6:00 p.m. #19 Classic Bounty DH 1,500 8:00 p.m. #20 Satellite Super High Roller DH 2,000 Sun 11 Sep 1:30 p.m. #21 MPO Short Handed DH 6,000 2:00 p.m. MPO Main Event Final 2:00 p.m. MPO Super High Roller DH 30,000 2:30 p.m. #18 Monster Stack Day 2 5:00 p.m. #23 Turbo Deep Closing Event DH 2,000

Euro amounts are approximate. All buy-ins must be paid in Moroccan Dirham

Value-Packed Packages Available From Casino Marrakech

The 2022 Marrakech Poker Open's organizers have created six special packes for players to take advantage of. These packages range from special rates on rooms at the Es Saadi Palace, Es Saadi hotel, Sofitel Hotel, and El Andalous Hotel, up to discounted rooms and tournament buy-ins.

For example, you can buy a MPO VIP Pack for DH 45,600 (4,500) which gives you six nights' accommodation at the Es Saadi Palace between September 6-12 plus entry to either the DH 20,000 (2,000) High Roller or the DH 13,200 (1,300) Main Event Day 1B. Check out the image below for all the available packages and details on how to book them.
Xin Hua Lai Wins the Massive APPT Manila Main Event

August 09, 2022 Matthew Pitt Editor

The 2022 PokerStars Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Manila Main Event crowned its champion this weekend, and Xin Hua Lai is the player that finished on top of the pile. Lai outlasted 800 opponents from 35 countries to secure the trophy, a top prize worth 5,973,000 ($107,467), and a 57,000 ($1,025) Road to PSPC package. Dutch grinder Thijs Hilberts finished second for the second time in as many outings.

APPT Manila Main Event Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize Prize (USD) 1 Xin Hua Lai Singapore 5,973,000 $107,467* 2 Thijs Hilberts Netherlands 6,071,000 $109,230* 3 Dhanesh Chainani Singapore 5,409,000 $97,319* 4 Zhao Feng Singapore 2,780,000 $50,018 5 Seina Asagirii Japan 2,197,000 $39,527 6 Wonchul Bae South Korea 1,654,000 $29,758 7 Kim Michael Enriquez Philippines 1,184,000 $21,302 8 Woosok Hong South Korea 827,000 $14,878 9 Jason Magbanua Philippines 658,745 $11,851

*reflects a three-handed deal

All finalist won a 22,000 ($395) Road to PSPC seat, with the champion receiving a 57,000 ($1,025) Road to PSPC package

Ferdinand Lu of the Philippines was the player who burst the final table bubble. Lu crashed out in tenth place, narrowly missing out on a 22,000 ($395) Road to PSPC seat that were part of the 45,452,745 ($816,378) prize pool.

Jason Magbanua's time at the final table was short-lived with the man from the Philippines crashing out in ninth for 658,745 ($11,851). Woosok Hong of South Korea and Kim Michael Enriquez of the Philippines were the next finalists heading to the cashier's cage to collect their rewards for their deep runs. Hong grabbed 827,000 ($14,878) while Enriquez netted 1,184,000 ($21,302).

Seina Asagiri ran out of steam and return to his native Japan with 2,197,000 ($39,527) to show for his efforts. Zhao Feng saw his tournament end in fourth place, a finish worth 2,780,000 ($50,018).

The final three players decided to make the pay jumps less severe by agreeing to an ICM deal. That deal left 900,000 ($16,197) extra for the eventual winner, in addition to the trophy and the 57,000 ($1,025) Road to PSPC package.

Lai was the shortest stack of the final three players, but his ace-jack hit top pair to win a three-way all-in against the pocket nines of Thijs Hilberts and the king-queen of Dhanesh Chainani. The trio were all-in together shortly after that hand, Lai holding pocket sevens against the king-ten of Hilberts and the queen-jack of Chainani. A seven on the flop put Lai in front and although Chainani improved to flush on the river, the flush-completing eight of spades gifted Lai a full house and the victory.

The 5,409,000 ($97,319) Chainani collected is his largest score. Hilberts, who finished second in this event when it last run in 2019, banked 6,071,000 ($109,230) for his back-to-back runner-up finish.
Cesar Del Pino Hanouadi raised to 300 from the cutoff and picked up one call from Olga Iermolcheva, in the big blind.

The flop came and Iermolcheva opted to check the action back to Hanouadi who slipped out a continuation-bet of 400. After a brief pause, Iermolcheva check-raised to 1,400 total and Hanouadi quickly called.

The turn was the and Iermolcheva continued her aggression with a bet of 1,600. This time it was Hanoudis' turn to raise making it 4,600 and Iermolcheva called.

The river came the and ,with the pot now at 12,800, Iermolcheva opted to check and Hanoudi announced all-in for his remaining stack and Iermolcheva swifty called. Hanouadi showed but it could not beat Iermolchevas' nut flush with .

This pot sees Ukrainian native Iermolcheva soar up the chip counts with over double starting stack early on in the event.
In a series of tweets on July 21, Pakistans ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan celebrated his PTI partys surprise landslide victory in local elections.

The win brought the PTI back into control of Pakistans biggest province, Punjab. And it rejuvenated Khans hopes for a political comeback after being ousted from national office in April, when a no-confidence vote in parliament put a coalition government in power.

Since then, Khan has been attacking the United States, claiming that it somehow rigged the April vote against him behind the scenes. And hes continued to demonize the U.S., now with the Punjab results as a new springboard.

Khan has produced no evidence the U.S. intervened, or attempted to intervene, to oust him. Nor is this the first time Khan has used baseless election interference claims to gin up sympathy.

Pakistans elections have historically been contentious. Khan was chosen as Pakistans prime minister in 2018 following a chaotic and violent election cycle.

He won then by positioning himself as an anti-corruption populist, and he received support from Pakistans military. The country has been under intermittent military-rule since winning independence from Britain in 1947, and military leaders are key power brokers.

In addition to its political clout, the military often guides Pakistans foreign policy and has worked closely with the U.S. government to counter terrorist groups.

As the winner, Khan defended the legitimacy of the 2018 election that brought him to the prime ministers office. Critics charged, however, that the election was marred by arbitrary detention and by violations of press freedom and the rights to assembly and free speech.

Opposition politicians reported being arrested and detained by the military as part of a campaign to pressure them to publicly support Khan and the PTI.

Khans tenure as prime minister did not bring stability. His popularity diminished as he struggled to deliver on his campaign promises, particularly economic reform. Pakistans military establishment also grew impatient.

As a result, Khans relationship soured with the military, led by Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. The two publicly disagreed over key appointments and foreign policy matters.

And while Bajwa declared political neutrality, he distanced himself from Khan. That distance was widely viewed as a key factor in Khans ouster.

As the military cooled for Khan, opposition parties united to call for a vote of no-confidence.

Shabhaz Sharif, leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), led those efforts. Khan attempted to dissolve the National Assembly and move for new elections, but the effort was blocked by Pakistans Supreme Court.

When the no-confidence vote succeeded, Sharif was elected by the National Assembly to replace Khan as prime minister and continues in that role.

Sharif is the brother of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who was sentenced to prison time in two 2018 corruption cases arising from the Panama Papers disclosures. The expose about secret offshore accounts connected Sharif and his children to high-end properties in London.

Nawaz Sharif left the country in 2019. He has denied accusations of corruption, but Pakistani courts have turned down his appeals.

Khans PTI party and Sharifs PML-N have been intense competitors since the 2018 voting.

In an effort to delegitimize the April vote, Khan has accused Shabhaz Sharif and the PML-N of colluding in a U.S. initiative to interfere in Pakistans domestic affairs. Meantime, hes characterized the militarys behavior as part of a U.S.-backed coup.

Trouble is, Khan hasnt backed it up. And both the U.S. State Department and Pakistani military claim theres no evidence behind Khans claims.

In response to widespread public and institutional opposition to Khan in the spring of 2022, a PTI minister claimed that the vote of no-confidence against him was part of an international conspiracy for not allowing the U.S. to build a counter-terror base on Pakistani soil.

Khan has also accused U.S. diplomat Donald Lu of orchestrating the vote of no-confidence, claiming the intervention was conveyed verbally and through a written cipher.

Khan has yet to produce verifiable evidence to substantiate this claim. Responding to questions from reporters on April 4, U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Price said, There is absolutely no truth to the allegations.

Once the countrys Supreme Court blocked his efforts to overturn the April vote, Khan and PTI leaders set their sights on July by-elections in Punjab. The by-elections provided an opportunity to gain seats in the National Assembly and repudiate Sharifs mandate as prime minister.

Khans win there matters because Punjab is Pakistans most populous and economically significant province and a stronghold of support for his PML-N opponents. He spent the months ahead of the vote campaigning on claims of election interference.

Can the strategy keep working? General elections in Pakistan are scheduled for August 2023, but they can be held sooner under several different scenarios.

For instance, the ruling coalition in the National Assembly could agree to dissolve the government, or individual members could defect, leading the coalition to lose its majority. Sharif also has the power to dissolve the government for new elections.

It appears the earliest a vote could be held is October. That is what the Pakistan Election Commission said in a recent report concluding it would take until then to prepare.
Aiken, SC (29801)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this evening. A few showers developing late. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening. A few showers developing late. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.
Loud music, spray-painted walls and smashing of bottles is what you will find inside of a rage room.

Jekyll and Hyde Destructive Therapy, a new rage room experience in North Augusta, opens to the public at 102 Holley Hill Drive with a soft opening Aug. 14 at noon.

David Jones and Darel Phillips, U.S. military veterans and co-owners of the business, found that this kind of business could be a place to start conversations regarding PTSD and mental health.

We feel that we can help prevent or at least stop someone from thinking there is no other way, and that they have other people going through the same things, Jones said. We just want to initiate that conversation; and, hopefully, it will lead to someone on a serious note then seeking out help that they ordinarily wouldn't get. Its one of the main reasons we wanted to do it.

The rage room business model is fairly new and started gaining popularity in Japan in the late 2000s. It became more common in the United States through pop culture in shows like ABCs "The Bachelorette."

While participating, each person goes through a safety briefing, signs a waiver, wears protective gear including helmets, gloves and plastic face masks.

During 15-minute increments, participants can smash cars, bottles and old electronics using medieval and traditional tools.

We think that it is becoming more and more popular in a lot of areas; so it is really a case of lets stake our place within that marketplace in a good area, and let's become the Dave & Buster's of rage rooms and smash houses, Jones said.

Named after famed English characters of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the duo wanted to show the juxtaposition and taboo of throwing delicate home items.

If I would have had something like this to where I could go in just for fun to do a little bit of taboo, i.e. throwing some glassware at some targets, going out and smashing a car, going out and breaking some electronics, I know No. 1 that is going to release the dopamines in my head, Phillips said. ... The way I look at it, everybody has a cup; and it depends on how we deal with those pieces on how fast that cup fills up, and we all need to have that cup emptied.

Any red-blooded American has been in their kitchen and been upset and maybe wanted to throw a plate, throw some glassware, something. Well here, you dont even have to clean it up; so now it is OK, and it is in a safe environment, Phillips said.

Phillips hopes that 15 minutes of destructive therapy and a safe environment will give people a safe place to express pent-up feelings and lead to a path for healing.

The duo hope to host veteran and retiree peer group meetings at their business.

There is so much anger, COVID has proven that  A lot of people are upset with the VA system when it comes to mental health and everything else. We are screaming out, but nobody is listening; and I feel that this is great to No. 1 bring the community together to be able to get some of that anger, the stress relief out, Phillips explained. No. 2, also have a safe environment that is friendly for fun. I look at adults as we are just children with money, and we have learned as adults to suppress our feelings; and we have also learned how to fake it until we finally make it. I want a business that is going to still be fun but professional.

To learn more about making appointments at Jekyll and Hyde Destructive Therapy, visit its website at jekyllhydetherapy.com.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

A few clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

A few clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable.
PLA launches recruitment with priority on students in science, tech majors, with skills for actual combat

By Leng Shumei (Global Times) 15:12, August 09, 2022

Special operations soldiers assigned to the "Thunder" Commando of the PLA Air Force airborne troops line up to board the aircraft during a parachuting training exercise in mid-summer, 2022. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Gu Xixi, Xu Jiawang and Guo Shuai)

The Chinese military's recruitment for the second half of this year is progressing in full swing across the country, with more highly educated students being attracted to the army due to the growing focus of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) on the development of intelligence, information and skills.

The recruitment, which coincided with the recent crisis over the Taiwan Straits following the reckless visit of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to the island, also became a trend on China's Twitter-like Sina Weibo on Monday, witnessing growing enthusiasm among Chinese netizens who vowed to contribute to the national reunification.

The favorable conditions for this year's recruitment include relaxing the age limit for postgraduate students from 24 to 26 years old, and priority would be given to college students in science and technology schools and to those with skills that are necessary for fighting in a war, according to a report of the China Central Television on Sunday.

People with skills that are necessary for fighting in a war include those talented in the internet, communication and engineering, and surveying and drone operation, observers said, noting that the requirements aim to enhance the PLA soldiers' capacity in real combat.

These favorable conditions this year come along with the Chinese army's accelerated integrated development of mechanization, informatization and intelligentization, Song Zhongping, a Chinese military expert and TV commentator, told the Global Times on Monday.

The relaxation of the age restrictions would help to expand the scope of people available for the PLA as many postgraduate students in China had reached 24 years old when they left school, Song noted.

As the PLA is developing toward a skill-intensive army, what we need the most is technical experts who can quickly learn to operate advanced and hi-tech weapons in the army, Song said, noting that enrollment of more technical staff would help to generate and sustain the combat effectiveness of the army.

The PLA also needs people in other fields such as those majoring in management, as scientific management methods would also help promote combat effectiveness, Song noted.

This year's favorable conditions have attracted more highly educated applicants.

According to the CCTV report, so far, more than 110,000 people applied to join the army in the second half of this year in East China's Zhejiang Province, among whom 50,000 were college students and another 27,000 were college graduates.

In Suzhou, East China's Jiangsu Province, more than 8,000 local people applied to join the army in the second half of this year and college graduates accounted for more than 50 percent. In Qingdao in East China's Shandong Province, 90 percent of the 3,000 applicants are college graduates, according to media reports.

Chinese netizens also expressed their enthusiasm to join the army on Monday. Related hashtags on Sina Weibo had been viewed about nearly 100 million times as of Monday afternoon.

"Can they relax the age restriction to 36? I want to contribute to the reunification of our motherland!" said a Weibo user.

"I will apply to join the army after I become a postgraduate student and learn more technologies to serve the country," said another.

Yu Qi, an applicant from Zhejiang, told CCTV that the recent situation in the Taiwan Straits affects the heart of every Chinese national, and makes us understand that it requires strength to safeguard national security.

"I am willing to serve the country and let the name of "PLA soldier" be the honor of my life," Yu said.

Huang Ziting contributes to this story

(Web editor: Liang Jun, Bianji)
LOBAMBA  Ministers, principal secretaries (PSs)and under secretaries (USs) are the main culprits of corruption in the country as alleged by Senator Philemon Moi Moi Masilela.

The three are the highest ranking officers, respectively, in each ministry and they are responsible for signing documents that give the green light for procurement of items to be utilised by the ministry, among other things. The senator said it was through that process that these government officials were contributing to corruption as they normally approved the procurement documents without actually questioning the pricing from the procuring entities. This was during the Ministry of Education and Training Portfolio Committees debate of the ministrys first quarter report for the financial year 2022/2023.

tendency

Masilela said government had been turned into a cash cow by the procurement entities as they had a tendency of overcharging government and the signing officials never questioned the exaggerated prices. He made an example that a pen cost a mere E5 but government purchased it at E300 through the tendering system. You can check with the Accountant Generals Office and you will observe that the procurement documents are signed by the minister, PS and the US. However, none of them ever question the prices of the items procured, even though they notice that government has been overcharged. These are the culprits of corruption in the country, he said. Education Minister Lady Mabuza could not respond to the accusations made by the senator at the time as she requested to have responses tabled in writing. It should be noted that government, through the Eswatini Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (ESPPRA), is working on putting a stop to the issue of overpricing by procuring entities as it is on the verge of introducing what is termed the e-Catalogue.

procured

This is a resource providing information about products online and through this method, government will have an average price for certain procured items like office furniture, petroleum products, among other items. It will entail that procuring entities give prices that are not far from the ones suggested by ESPPRA and that will be one of the requirements of the regulatory authority when evaluating tenders. Meanwhile, violence, lack of security and strikes were a great concern at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA). Multiple senators raised these as issues that were disturbing the operations of the highest learning institution in the country and they urged the ministry to work on them.
Charleston County School District Superintendent Don Kennedy proposed new academic priorities at the district's Aug. 8 board of trustees meeting with a focus on shrinking the achievement gaps between White students and students of color.

He announced the revised goals after test data released at the beginning of the summer showed CCSD students of color were scoring disproportionately worse than their White counterparts.

Kennedy recommended revising benchmarks in three categories: English language arts, math, and college and career readiness. He admitted his new goals were aggressive during the board meeting, but felt they were in line with what similar school districts were prioritizing.

Take a look across the country at school districts who have challenges this way, Kennedy said. Invariably, they will have those same three goals.

Kennedy wants to increase the percentage of all students scoring meets or exceeds on the South Carolina READY assessment administered to students in grades 3-8 from the 49.1 percent the district scored in 2021 to 75 percent by 2027. He also wants to get all students reading on grade level by fifth grade during the same period.

More coverage To read more in-depth stories from The Post and Courier's Education Lab, go to postandcourier.com/education-lab.

Kennedys team has identified kindergarten as a crucial time for meeting reading benchmarks and has proposed significant increases in reading goals, including a jump from 50.9 percent to 65.5 percent of students demonstrating readiness on the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment by 2027, and a jump from 57 percent to 75 percent of students demonstrating low risk on the FastBridge Reading Assessment by the same year.

Hes not just focused on reading comprehension  he wants to increase the percentage of students completing advanced math courses in the eighth grade. Only 27.7 percent of all eighth graders were enrolled in Algebra I during the 2020-21 school year, with an even lower percentage of students of color.

Kennedy also wants to raise the percentage of students who are college and career ready from 67.7 percent to 86.2 percent by 2027. Though the districts numbers are higher than the state's in most categories, less than a quarter of CCSD students scored better than 20 on the ACT and about a third got more than 1020 on the SAT in 2021.

Kennedy, who became the district's interim superintendent at the beginning of the year before being promoted to temporary superintendent in June, has consistently emphasized increasing reading comprehension and decreasing academic gaps between students of color and their White peers during his tenure.

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This academic push comes after test scores released during a June board meeting showed Black and Hispanic students in Charleston County scored much lower than White students on the measure of academic performance tests. These tests are given in the fall and spring to students in grade 2-8 to determine how much they learned over the course of the school year.

CCSD's Black students scored in the 34th percentile in reading on the test, and its Hispanic students scored in the 35th percentile. The district's White's students scored in the 77th percentile.

The same gap existed in the math test scores where Black students scored in the 26th percentile, Hispanic students in the 35th percentile and White students in the 77th percentile.

The board didn't vote on whether to revise the district's academic goals during the meeting. They are gathering community input before deciding whether to change the benchmarks.

During the meeting the board also heard a presentation from Michael Reidenbach, CCSDs executive director of security and emergency management, after Charleston residents have called for more security in schools.

Reidenbach outlined what the district currently does to keep students safe  regular training for faculty and drills for students, school resource officers at some schools, emergency plans, layered physical security measures  and suggested several other options to add.

These options ranged from library door security, more security staffing, locks, full-time weapons screening, a panic system, advanced bus cameras and ballistic-rated doors, the topic of a presentation to the board by R2P Innovations earlier in the meeting. The measures would cost the district between $446,460 to $35 million.

Board members asked for a prioritized list of Reidenbachs recommendations before further action.

The board also heard a request from Greg Mathis Charter School for space and made a revision to its fund balance policy, encouraged by external auditors, which was approved to be moved to the next meetings consent agenda.

The next regular school board meeting is on Aug. 22.
ANDREWS  Authorities are looking into a suspicious death in Andrews after a mans body was discovered by family members.

Georgetown County Sheriffs Office deputies responded Aug. 6 to assist the Andrews Police Department after a man was found dead in the 200 block of East Cherry Street in Andrews.

The deceased had been staying with his mother at another location, but left on Aug. 5, according to the sheriffs office report. The family became concerned after not hearing from the man, so family members went to his house to check on him.

The family checked the house except for one bedroom which the family said the deceased never went in. Not finding him, the family contacted the Andrews Police Department to report a missing person.

A short time later, the family returned to the house to check again, and discovered the man's body in the back room.

Upon the coroners examination, the sheriffs office investigator was requested to process the scene because of the deceased having marks which were not consistent with a natural death, the report stated.

An autopsy has been requested and the investigation is ongoing.

This is a developing story and will be updated.
Brandon Alter covers the town of Kingstree and Williamsburg County for The Kingstree News. He is from the suburbs of Washington, D.C. He graduated from the University of South Carolina's school of Journalism and Mass Communications in May 2021.
Mount Pleasant, SC (29464)

Today

Some clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Some clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low around 70F. Winds light and variable.
Officers responded around 4:40 p.m. Aug. 8 to a "shots fired" call at Northside Drive near Ashley Phosphate Road, spokesman Harve Jacobs said. They arrived to a chaotic scene.

Paramedics took two victims to a hospital. Jacobs did not know the status of their conditions, nor their ages. It was also unclear whether gunfire injured the victims, or if they were hurt another way, he said.

Officers collected evidence and interviewed witnesses outside the cluster of motels and restaurants along Northside Drive. The shooting occurred just outside the entrance to a McDonald's parking lot.

Detectives received conflicting accounts about the incident, Jacobs said. They weren't sure about the number of guns involved or how many people were firing weapons. They also didn't know if it was a drive-by shooting or if someone stopped their car and began firing from inside.

"It's a very fluid situation," Jacobs said.

Authorities also hadn't identified any possible suspects. A helicopter searched the area as officers fanned out across nearby wooded areas, all to no avail, Jacobs said.

Multiple police cars were still blocking Northside Drive and Ashley Phosphate Road at 6:30 p.m. as officers processed the scene. Police tape sectioned off Northside Drive up to North Forest Drive. The closures caused a traffic snarl as cars attempted to turn onto Northside Drive before the drivers realized it was closed.

Three cars were stopped along the road, yellow evidence markers dotting the pavement around their wheels.

A white sedan, peppered with bullet holes on its passenger side, had its airbags deployed and front bumper crushed. At least two bullet holes shattered the side windows of a black BMW SUV. And the driver's window of a gray Volkswagen SUV appeared completely smashed in.

Several employees at a Bojangles, which neighbors the McDonald's, sat outside the restaurant, telling the occasional customer it was temporarily closed for business.

The employees hadn't heard the gunshots, they said. They'd been working in the noisy kitchen and came out to police sirens after a supervisor called to say they needed to shut down.

An incident report would be made available Aug. 9, Jacobs said.
MBABANE  The National Commissioner of Police (NATCOM), William Dlamini, has called upon SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini to reveal the identity of the commander.

SNAT is the abbreviation for Swaziland National Association of Teachers. Yesterday, Mbongwa, through the SNAT Platform social media pages, circulated an audio of his telephonic conversation with the NATCOM. When contacted by this publication, Mbongwa confirmed the audio he had recorded during his phone call with the NATCOM.

confirmed

Also, the NATCOM confirmed to have spoken with Mbongwa via the phone, though he said he was not aware that Mbongwa was recording him. In their conversation, the police chief told Mbongwa that the reason for the call was that they were shocked as security agents by his (Mbongwa) statements where he was urging teachers not to go to their respective workstations amid the threats issued by the commander. The NATCOM said as the police they would like Mbongwa to come forward to explain to them as to who the commander was. He wondered why Mbongwa confused the country so much.

During the phone call between the two, Mbongwa asked how he had confused the country and the police chief replied by asking him where teachers were because they did not show up at schools since Mbongwa issued the warning not to do so as the commander had spoken. The NATCOM further asked Mbongwa who the commander was and told him he would have to come forward and tell the police who he was because as police they did not know him.

challenges

The police chief told Mbongwa that this was a serious matter as he was having challenges at work because they were letting people speak anyhow without following the law. Mbongwa asked the NATCOM if it was wrong for him to warn teachers about the threats, but the latter asked where Mbongwa heard the threats. He further said Mbongwa should have reported to the police about any threats. The police chief said he would call Mbongwa on the date he would be summoned to the police headquarters. In an interview with this publication, the NATCOM said though he was not aware that Mbongwa was recording him he would still have to come to the police headquarters to explain himself on his statement of instructing teachers to stay at home. This is a national security matter, said the NATCOM.

instructed

He said as the police, they would not sit back and clap hands when Mbongwa instructed teachers to stay at home, leading the school- children to wander on the streets as they were turned back from schools. He said Mbongwa did not have powers to direct teachers to stay at home. He said they would allow the law to take its course and allow Mbongwa to explain himself on the matter. The commissioner said if the police would be satisfied with Mbongwas explanatio,n it shall be fine. Meanwhile, in an interview, Mbongwa said as a law-abiding citizen, he would respond when the police called him.

obligated

The SNAT president said as the president of the union looking out for the interests of the teachers, he was obligated to look at things that may pose danger to their members. He said it surprised him to receive the call from the NATCOM because the issue was between the employer and employees. I dont know where the NATCOM features in such issues, said Mbongwa. He added that the NATCOM was the one who had to inform the country who the commander was since he (NATCOM) had an Intelligence Unit responsible to investigate such.
A "freelance" bounty hunter arrested last fall on allegations he impersonated a federal agent allegedly went "off the grid" after his release on bail in the case, falsely reporting to authorities he was living with his mother in Greenville.

After a nine-day search, a U.S. marshal was able to track Jeremy Hughes to a West Ashley residence, where he was living with his girlfriend and the woman's elderly relative.

Hughes, 39, was arrested July 25 at the house on federal charges of impersonating a federal employee and unlawful weapon possession.

He appeared Aug. 8 at a detention hearing in the U.S. District Court in Charleston, where Magistrate Judge Mary Gordon Baker ordered he would remain in federal custody until his trial.

The federal charges stem from the same allegations that caused Berkeley County Sheriff's deputies to arrest Hughes' in December.

On Nov. 22, Hughes told two employees at Creekside Mulch, 3238 U.S. Highway 52 in St. Stephen, he was a U.S. marshal hunting for a man. He was carrying a shotgun and wore a pistol in a holster, according to police records and testimony from Hughes' detention hearing. The employees said the man wore a green T-shirt that read "Police U.S. Marshals"

Hughes asked them to let him in the store, which was closed for the day. The employees said no, but a supervisor overruled them after a phone call. Hughes, who said his name was "Brian Williams," drank some water and quizzed the employees about the business' surveillance cameras, authorities say.

He gave his phone number to the employees, who snapped photos of him before he left the building. The next day, the employees reported the strange encounter to the Sheriff's Office.

Berkeley County sheriff's deputies used the business' surveillance cameras and the phone number to identify "Brian Williams" as Hughes. He was arrested Dec. 1 during a traffic stop in Goose Creek, according to authorities.

Hughes had a small amount of methamphetamine and a pipe on him when he was placed under arrest. In the vehicle, deputies found two pistols, a rifle and a shotgun. All but one of the weapons were loaded, authorities say.

The green tee and another shirt that read "SOG Fugitive Task Force" were in the car. Deputies also found zip ties and ammunition in the vehicle.

Deputies found two more guns and ammunition after searching his room at a residence in Goose Creek, according to testimony.

Jeremy Baker, a deputy chief for the Sheriff's Office, said at the time of Hughes' arrest that investigators determined the man was a "freelance" bounty hunter, but he did not actually arrest anyone on Nov. 22.

Hughes was charged in Berkeley County's court with impersonating a law enforcement officer, drug possession and a firearm offense. He was released Dec. 17 on bail in that case, which remains pending.

Hughes was on probation at the time for a 2020 domestic violence conviction. He told his probation officer that he was living with his mother in Greenville, but a U.S. Marshal testified at the detention hearing that was not true.

The federal agent tried to locate Hughes after he was indicted July 13 in the federal case. He checked several residences tied to Hughes and spoke with a former employer before he was able to find the man July 25 living in an Avondale house with his girlfriend, who was there caring for an elderly relative with dementia.

Hughes seemed surprised he was found, telling the marshal he had no paperwork connecting him to the residence, according to testimony.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Lietzow said Hughes had a criminal history dating back nearly 20 years, including two convictions in 2008 for deserting the military, which resulted in a court martial and several months of confinement.

Cody Groeber, Hughes' public defender, said none of the convictions were felonies, but he is still prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law because of the domestic violence conviction, which stemmed from a 2018 arrest.

The magistrate judge said she was uncertain if Hughes was a flight risk, but she believed he was a danger to the community. She ordered him to remain in jail until trial, which has not been scheduled.
Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.
COLUMBIA  President Joe Biden is nominating South Carolina Judge DeAndrea Benjamin, the wife of Columbia's former mayor, to an opening on the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, according to the White House.

Biden plans to nominate Benjamin to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Henry Floyd, also of South Carolina. She would join two others from South Carolina on the powerful 15-judge federal court that hears appeals from the Carolinas, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. Its rulings are appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

"This choice fulfills the presidents promise to ensure that the nations courts reflect the diversity that is one of our greatest assets as a country  both in terms of personal and professional backgrounds," read an Aug. 9 statement from the White House.

South Carolina legislators first elected Benjamin to the state's Circuit Court in 2011.

Her nomination to the federal Court of Appeals comes after she lost a bid last year for a promotion to the S.C. Court of Appeals in an unusually partisan judicial race. The Legislature instead chose then-Family Court Judge Jay Vinson of Florence in a 94-63 vote.

South Carolina and Virginia are the only two states where legislators elect judges.

The rare external pressure came from a conservative advocacy group headed by Greenville businessman John Warren, who unsuccessfully challenged Gov. Henry McMaster in the 2018 GOP primary. Email blasts called Benjamin a "liberal Democratic activist," based on the fact her former law firm, which she left a decade earlier to become a judge, donated to mostly Democratic candidates.

Benjamin's supporters said she was unfairly targeted as the wife of Columbia's high-profile Democratic Mayor Steve Benjamin, who did not seek reelection last year after more than a decade in office. His tenure included stints as president of the African American Mayors Association in 2015 to 2016 and president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in 2018 to 2019.

After the February 2021 vote, DeAndrea Benjamin said she believes in the independence of the judiciary.

"I hate the fact that the judicial races today turned into partisan races, but that's what happened," she told The Post and Courier at the time.

She would have been the first Black woman in South Carolina history on the state Court of Appeals, a point her supporters emphasized.

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Steve Benjamin supported Biden in his 2020 campaign  but not until after the important South Carolina primary that catapulted Biden to the nomination. Steve Benjamin instead was an early backer of Michael Bloomberg and switched to Biden when the billionaire businessman exited the race.

DeAndrea Benjamin is a graduate of Winthrop University and the University of South Carolina School of Law.

She worked as an assistant state attorney general from 1999 to 2001, during the tenure of GOP Attorney General Charlie Condon, and previously worked as a prosecutor in the juvenile and family court division of the 5th Circuit Solicitor's Office, which include Richland and Kershaw counties. She presides as a judge in that same circuit.

Biden's nomination of Benjamin comes just one month after the U.S. Senate confirmed Judge Michelle Childs of South Carolina to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia. Childs had been a federal judge on South Carolina's District Court for more than a decade and was on a short list of candidates Biden was considering to replace retiring U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer.

Childs' nomination was pushed by House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, South Carolina's most powerful Democrat, whose endorsement was Biden's 2020 springboard.

Biden instead nominated Ketanji Brown, a U.S. Court of Appeals judge for D.C., as the first Black woman on the U.S. Supreme Court.

Clyburn applauded Biden for nominating Benjamin at his recommendation.

"Judge Benjamin will bring her own unique life and legal experiences to the federal bench, and she is well qualified to fill this vacancy," Clyburn said in a statement. "I believe Judge Benjamin is an outstanding jurist who will be a tremendous addition to the 4th Circuit bench. I look forward to her progressing through the confirmation process, and I will support her in any way I can."

Benjamin's nomination must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.

Asked about it while at the Statehouse, U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham told reporters he wasn't yet sure how he'll vote.

"Elections matter," he said during a news conference on a different issue. "I've voted for many of the Biden nominees even though I wouldnt have chosen them myself, and Ill see."
SPARTANBURG  The Spartanburg County Historical Association and the Spartanburg Downtown Memorial Airport are celebrating the 95th anniversary of Charles Lindbergh's visit to Spartanburg.

The groups will recreate Lindbergh's visit and hold a testimonial dinner on Aug. 13 at Converse Universitys Gee Dinning Hall, the location of the original dinner. The event will take place at 6:30 p.m. and have the same program, dinner menu and black-tie attire as the 1927 dinner, according to a news release.

The keynote speaker is Erik Lindbergh, a grandson of Charles Lindbergh.

On May 20, 1927, Lindbergh left Long Island, New York and flew his plane solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Upon Lindbergh's return, he went on a three-month nationwide tour of 92 cities in 48 states. He gave 147 speeches and rode 1,290 miles in parades, according to a news release.

The purpose of his visits was to educate and promote the future of aviation. On Oct. 12, 1927, Charles Lindbergh landed in Spartanburg when it had the only airport in South Carolina.

Tickets are $125 and will not be available at the door. They can be purchased at conversecollege.universitytickets.com.
MBABANE  Woe unto head teachers and teachers who absented themselves and sent pupils home yesterday!

The Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Education and Training, Bhekithemba Gama, said all head teachers who sent pupils home would be dealt with by the Teaching Service Commission (TSC). He said head teachers and teachers who would be found guilty during a disciplinary hearing would be demoted or have their services terminated. According to Gama, the ministry had not issued any directive to any head teacher to send pupils home.

The PS stated that as a result, those who decided to send pupils home would be charged and appear before a disciplinary panel at the TSC to explain to their employer how and when they got permission to send the pupils home. We have been told that there was a number of children who were sent home today (yesterday) by head teachers. They will have to explain to us why they decided to turn the pupils away. The teachers did not show up will also have to answer on why they did not go to work, because that is what they were hired for, the PS said. It was gathered that the SNAT executive had attended a meeting at the Ministry of Education and Training yesterday.

Dismissed

When questioned about the disciplinary measures to be taken against the teachers if found guilty, the PS said they would treat all cases individually and those found guilty may be demoted or dismissed from work. Furthermore, Gama said he did not know why the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) executive advised teachers to not go to work, while the members of the Executive of SNAT were working on the day. Gama said this was unfair because if the ministry decided to implement the no-work, no-pay rule, the SNAT Executive would get their full salaries.

The SNAT executive deceived teachers into taking the decision to not attend classes while they themselves were working on the day. I do not understand if that meant that the executive did not see any threats because if they did, why did they not then postpone the meeting and stay at home like all other teachers if really their decision was sincere and for the benefit of the other teachers, he said.

In response, SNAT President Mbongwa Dlamini said teachers did not have to worry about any disciplinary proceedings because the decision to not go to work was provided for by Section 18/2+3 of the OHS Act No.9 of 2001. Teachers should not fear as they took a decision that was within their rights. There were threats which made teachers decide not go to work. The head teachers also took the right decision as their safety and that of the pupils is important. This shows that the ministry does not consider the safety of its employees and that of the pupils, said Dlamini.

When asked why the SNAT Executive, including himself, the secretary general and two of their members decided to report for duty while they had advised other teachers to stay at home if they sensed any danger, Dlamini said they had convened a meeting with the Ministry of Education and Training to talk about issues which involved SNAT. We went there for a meeting with the ministry, he said.
There is no clear dividing line between the legitimate purposes of a congressional investigation and the partisan purposes of the majority party that leads the investigation, but the balance usually devolves toward partisan agendas even when the underlying matter is serious, like Watergate. The only way to contain partisan motivations properly is for the minority party to have vigorous members on the investigating committee to hold the majority accountable and assure, to the extent possible in a proceeding not bound by the normal legal rules of the courtroom, that evidence and testimony is subject to skepticism and scrutiny, and that deeper principles of constitutional government are brought to the surface.

One person who served this role with honor and distinction in the 1987 Iran-Contra hearings was Wyomings lone member of the House, Dick Cheney. That was a long time ago now, but keep in mind that Democrats thought they had the perfect sequel to Watergate set up, and fully intended to move to impeach President Reagan if the hearings of the joint House-Senate select committee could assemble enough dirt to throw at Reagan. Of course the committees hearings didnt succeed as Democrats had intended, but that story will have to be left for another time (though you can read my account of it in Chapter 11 of my Age of Reagan, volume 2).

Still, the outcome was notable for the stellar work of Dick Cheney and his chief counsel, David Addington, who produced the minority report that subtly called out the bad faith of Democrats along with substantive arguments about how congressional Democrats had improperly undermined the constitutional authority of the president to conduct foreign policy. Reagan complained in his diary about the difficulty of conducting foreign policy with 535 secretaries of state up on Capitol Hill. Cheneys minority report put the substance behind this argument.

Imagine if then-Speaker Jim Wright had rejected Cheneys appointment to the Iran-Contra select committee, and appointed weak or anti-Reagan Republicans instead. Clearly everyone would have understood that the joint select committee was illegitimate, a kangaroo court that could not hide its partisan purposes behind investigatory doubletalk.

This is one reason why the January 6 Committee is illegitimate because of Speaker Nancy Pelosis unprecedented decision to reject Republican Leader Kevin McCarthys picks for the committee. Even if you think Trump is a defective person and disastrous president, he deserves a defense in the hearings, and the results of the J-6 committee would have more credibility if it included at least one Trump defender. No doubt the hearings would be contentious and volatile if Jim Jordanthe fiery ranking Republican on the House Judiciary Committeehad been named, but several of McCarthys picks seemed eminently objective. No Republicans should have agreed to serve on the committee after Pelosis outrageous decision to rig the committee. It is already clear that the outcome of this farce will be indistinguishable from a process that included no Republicans.

Which brings us to the current Cheney serving as the lone House member from Wyoming. By now it is evident that Liz Cheney did not join this committee with the purpose of objectively considering the facts and evidence of Trump and January 6, or treating Trump with any degree of fairness. This is made most evident by the TV spot her dad has cut (found at the end of this post if you havent seen it) endorsing her re-election based chiefly on the conclusion that there has never been an individual who was a greater threat to our republic than Donald Trump. (I assume he means domestic individual, though I suppose it is possible Dick has gone fully into the Trump is worse than Hitler fever swamp.) Further, it is Liz Cheneys purpose to see to it that Donald Trump is never again near the Oval Office.

Isnt that something for the voters to decide?

I dont think the former Vice President looks very good in this spot, though to be fair hes had serious health issues (including a heart transplant in recent years). Ive always liked and admired the man, having met him and conversed with him on several occasions over the years. The news today, however, that Liz Cheney says she might not be able to support Ron DeSantis if he is the GOP 2024 nominee is yet another sign of how Trump has undone so many once sensible people. It is one thing to believe Trump has character and judgment flaws that make him unsuited for the presidency, and I can respect my many friends who hold this view. But too many people seem to have let Trump turn them against all Republicans across the board, which shows bad faith. (Ill treat some of the central issues of January 6 later, but if Trumps claims of election irregularities or the role of the Vice President in certifying the election lacked any foundation, why is Congress thinking of amending the Electoral Count Act of 1887 to clear up the ambiguities and defects of the statute?)

In fact, I predict that if Liz Cheney loses her upcoming GOP primary, as most think she will, Cheney may try to run as an independent candidate in November to deny her Republican opponent by splitting the vote. Wyoming has a sore loser law that should prevent this kind of thing, but you can expect some well-funded lawsuits on Lizs behalf to overcome the law and get on the ballot, even as a write-in if necessary.

As a certain towering figure in America these days might put it, Sad!
This is from todays Telegraph:

In the end, it could be even worse than had been feared. Today saw the release of a new forecast for the energy price cap  and it does not make for comfortable reading. Experts predict that the figure will hit more than 4,200 in January [$5,082 for a single month]. In a new dire outlook for households, Cornwall Insight said bills are set to soar to around 3,582 in October  from 1,971 today  before rising even further in the new year. Ofgem is set to put the price cap at 4,266 for the average household in the three months from the beginning of January. The energy consultancy said this is around 650 more than its previous forecast. Consumer expert Martin Lewis described the latest forecasts as tragic, saying they will leave many households destitute.

As Britain rushes to wean itself off Russian energy, British Gas owner Centrica today inked a 7 billion deal to import liquefied natural gas from the US. The company signed an agreement with Delfin Midstream to buy LNG from Americas first floating export facility off Louisiana. While deliveries are not expected to start until 2026, James Warrington reports that it highlights how suppliers are securing extra imports after Vladimir Putins gas cuts sparked fears of energy shortages this winter.

In a crisis, no one is desperately trying to buy solar panels. That is the situation in the U.K. Then there is France:

Frances Emmanuel Macron has smothered his countrys cost-of-living problem by capping electricity bills at 4pc by state dictate, while gas prices have been frozen at the October 2021 level until the end of this year under a tariff shield.

Thatll work! Tragically, the U.S., with the greatest reserves of energy in the world, is going down the failed German path. This is the worst mistake of a catastrophically bad administration.
The award-winning filmmaker and novelist Biyi Bandele, a mainstay in the Nigerian literary space who produced some of Nollywoods spectacular films, died on Sunday at 54.

Theatre arts practitioners and Nollywood are still mourning the loss of an iconic star who holds a special place in their hearts.

His daughter, Temi, broke the news of his death on Facebook on Monday night.

The statement read: As Biyis daughter, I am heartbroken to share the sudden and unexpected death on Sunday 7th of August in Lagos of my father, Biyi Bandele.

Biyi was a prodigiously talented writer and filmmaker, as well as a loyal friend and beloved father. He was a storyteller to his bones, with an unblinking perspective, singular voice and wisdom which spoke boldly through all of his art, in poetry, novels, plays and on screen.

He told stories which made a profound impact and inspired many worldwide. His legacy will live on through his work. He was taken from us much too soon. He had already said so beautifully and had so much more to say. We wish everyone to please respect the privacy of his family and friends as we grieve his loss.

Tributes

His colleagues have paid glowing tributes to him on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Mufu Onifade, a playwright and dramatist, wrote: This sudden death pricks me to the marrow! At times, like this, even silence does not provide answers to many whys rummaging our minds. Noises will fizzle in the air just like a fart, and silence is not always golden. Indeed, life and times are transient! Rest In Peace, great creative thinker. RIP, great writer and film director. RIP, Biyi Bandele! May your journey home be smooth.

Theatre and Film Scholar Onyekaba Cornel-Best wrote: Life is miserably unpredictable. Rest on, brother man.

Also, film curator Shaibu Husseini wrote, Sad Day globally for the theatre and film industry. Notable writer and Director Biyi Bandele (Half of A Yellow Sun, Fifty, Blood Sisters And the anticipated Elesin Oba) is DEAD!

This is so tragic! At 54? We have just lost an institution!

Have mercy, Lord! Journey Well, Biyi! Go well!

Filmmaker Mo Abudu also paid tribute to the movie director of several of her film projects, including Fifty (2015), Blood Sisters, episodes 1 & 2 (2022) and the forthcoming film Elesin Oba, The Kings Horseman, for which he wrote the screenplay. Elesin Oba, one of his last works, will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.

She wrote: Biyi had an eye for a story, was always passionate about his work, and had a great love for Yoruba culture. We will miss his dedication, cheerful spirit and collaborative nature. Rest in peace, dear friend.

Actress Ireti Doyle in her tribute to the late filmmaker said he handed her one of the biggest moments in her career.

Ireti recollected her encounter with the deceased on Tuesday in her tribute on Twitter.

She tweeted: One day, well tell the stories behind the story. At a pivotal point in my career, this man went to bat for me. Had never met him before that fateful day in the audition room. Ended up handing me one of my biggest moments. Rest in power, Sir!

My heart is heavy. We were planning to make his book Burma Boy into a major Motion Picture. There were many others in the works. RIP Biyi Bandele. Thank you for being a friend, mentor, therapist and supporter.  Kenneth Gyang (@kennethgyang) August 9, 2022

https://twitter.com/_deyemi/status/1556895400728182785?s=20&t=UQASdJixewnWMucoLyqpRg

https://twitter.com/BayoOlupohunda/status/1556898507029680130?s=20&t=RqnPWaKq4XpnCv3PgQ_3ag

https://twitter.com/BeverlyNaya/status/1556886172198117378?s=20&t=rsWLtUpVUcD7u5d5L-jysA

Background

He was studying Dramatic Arts at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile Ife, when he won the BBC Playwriting Competition. After that, he relocated to England, where he had a flourishing career as a writer.

He was a dedicated artist with a strong passion for life and a string of successes in his writing and filmmaking career. His latest work is Elesin Oba, the Kings Horseman (2022), which he adapted from Wole Soyinkas classic drama, Death & The Kings Horseman, and directed for EbonyLife Films. The film is yet to be released but will screen at the Toronto International Film Festival, TIFF, in September.

He had earlier co-directed Blood Sisters, a 4-part Netflix-original television drama series, also for EbonyLife Films. His earlier works include Half of a Yellow Sun (Shareman Media & State Films, 2013), adapted from Chimamanda Adichies novel of the same title, Fifty (Ebony Films, 2015). He was also a director of the highly successful Television Series SHUGA: Whats Your Reality.

He directed FELA  Father of Afrobeat (2018), a TV special documentary for the BBC, and his self-produced TV-Movie documentary, Africa States of Independence (2010).

His fiction and non-fiction works include The Street, Burma Boy, a novel, a recreation of the story of his father and other veterans of the Second World War, who served in Burma, India, which he was going to adapt for film. His other writing works include The Man Who Came in from the Back of Beyond, The Sympathetic Undertaker, and Yoruba Boy Running, which he recently concluded and submitted for publishing.

Biyi was a devoted father to his son, Korede and daughter, Temi.
On Monday night, armed robbers invaded the Abeokuta home of the famous Nigerian actor Hafiz Saka Oyetoro, demanding N20 million.

The actors filmmaker friend, Kayode Soaga, who confirmed the incident on Facebook on Monday, said the robbers wielded pump action guns, machetes, and break-in tools and unleashed mayhem on the neighbourhood.

Attack

Mr Soaga said the robbers broke into Sakas house at about 2 a.m. heavily armed.

He said his security guards were tied down while three other houses on the street were robbed with more devastating effects.

They broke the burglary proof and went straight to him, demanding N20m or his life, threatening to kill and destroy.

He begged and pleaded. They later came down to N3m, which he said he doesnt have. They dazed him with a resounding slap etc. The armed robbers packed all android phones, iPhones, laptops and all available cash in the home and collected all ATM Cards, he said.

He said the robbers came with POS to empty money in accounts, saying Sakas security guards were demobilised while the guards of his neighbours were not too lucky as they were shot several times in the arms.

We thank almighty GOD for Sakas Life and his family and neighbours.

ALSO READ: Police recover suspected stolen car from fleeing robbers

Thankfully, Nobody died in this incident. Hes doing fine, he said.

Aftermath

The 58-year-old actor and lecturer in the department of theatre art at Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Lagos State, is said to be doing fine with his family after the shocking incident.

Saka, who became a household name after he was featured as the main character in a 2013 MTN advert where he announced I don port o, is known for his comic roles in Nollywood movies.

Some of his memorable movie roles are The Wedding Party and the comedy-crime/heist film Ojukokoro (Greed).

The actor also starred in popular movies The Wedding Party (2016) and the comedy-crime/heist film Ojukokoro (Greed) (2017).
A civil society organisation, Connected Development (CODE), says it will launch a technology that would enable it to observe and report security challenges during the upcoming Kenyan 2022 elections.

The technology, tagged Uzabe, is an Open Situation Awareness Room (OSAR) initiative that will provide real-time intelligence, mapping tools and witness reports from various polling units.

It said the initiative was also deployed during the last general elections in Nigeria in 2019.

This was contained in a statement issued by the communication officer for CODE, Seun Durojaye, on Saturday.

About 48 million citizens of the East African country are expected to cast their votes in the presidential, governorship, legislative, and womens representative elections on Tuesday.

About 22 million voters or 40 per cent of youths will cast their ballots across an estimated 46,232 polling stations.

Like Nigeria, Kenya also practices a multiparty system of democracy.

However, the polls would see the two front-runners, Deputy President William Ruto of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, and longtime opposition leader Raila Odinga of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) political party, contesting to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta, who is completing his second and final term in office.

READ ALSO:

Our mission in Kenya

The Chief Executive of CODE, Hamzat Lawal, said its mission in the Kenyan election is to strengthen emergency response during elections that mitigate electoral violence and uphold the integrity of elections in Africa.

In Kenya and Nigeria, elections are around the corner and we are gearing up to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.

CODE has deployed international delegates to observe the upcoming Kenyan 2022 elections. CODE in partnership with Ushahidi, a Kenyan-originated open source software application that utilises user-generated reports to collate and map data, developed a technology-driven election monitoring platform known as Uzabe.

Uzabe, a real-time intelligence, and mapping tool, enables situation and eyewitness reports from various polling units in real-time. With this tool, CODE aims to strengthen emergency response during elections that mitigate electoral violence and uphold the integrity of elections in Africa.

Nigeria elections

Mr Lawal also said it will deploy 20,000 observers in Nigerias 2023 general elections who will leverage the Uzabe technology to monitor and observe elections.

Our approach is to improve intelligence gathering during elections by providing real-time reports, using technology. For this purpose, we are deploying 20,000 observers who will work to monitor and authenticate reports from the field to ensure credible elections as well as establishing early warning systems in rural and vulnerable communities in the 2023, he said general election.

This will provide unique learning opportunities that can help inform election monitoring strategy for Nigerias upcoming 2023 elections.

CODE successfully observed elections back in 2013 in Kenya, Nigerias 2015 and 2019 general elections, USA 2016 Presidential election, and will deploy observers in 2023 general elections seeking to, again, ensure peaceful electoral process, promote national reconciliation and improve quality of elections using Uzabe.
Coming from two recent successful, high-profile terror operations, the Islamic States West Africa Province (ISWAP), seems set for its biggest prize yet  its conceited declaration of kidnapping the Nigerian president. In March this year, a detachment of the group, operating mostly around the forests between Kaduna and Niger State, deployed to blow up a KadunaAbuja train off its tracks, murdering scores, and kidnapping about 62 people, from whom they have so far extracted an average of about N100 million naira from each of the 35 victims released so far. As exasperated negotiators with the terrorists would later say, the pitiless killers have no reason to publicly communicate their motives because the president and your leaders know our demands.

After some sham motions in government circles, the abducted train riders were abandoned to their fate, scrambling through tortuous paths to pay their ransoms, while elected officials in Abuja traded blames but offered no accountability. Then in July, another ISWAP detachment, with possible operational support from Ansaru, a breakaway faction of Boko Haram and affiliate of Al-Qaeda, operating mostly in Kaduna and Kogi States, struck at the heart of the Nigerian capital, Abuja. Storming the Kuje Medium Security Prison in the capital city, the terrorists killed at least one of the security personnel, and liberated 879 inmates (among them 64 Boko Haram members and other criminals), in an operation that reportedly lasted over three hours.

The Kuje attack has elicited curious responses from Nigerians. Traditionally, every time the world around President Buhari seemed to quake and cave, he had responded with his well-known milquetoast demeanour, suggesting all is well and okay; Hakuna matata, as they say in Swahili. Strangely, however, in this one rare instance, in perfect rhyme with the novelist, Ayn Rand, who warned that You can ignore reality, but you cant ignore the consequences of ignoring reality, an awakened President Buhari was at the site of the vicious assault, inspecting damages, asking thoughtful questions, and promising consequences.

Far from being done, shortly after the Kuje operations, the now metastasised terror footprints across the northern half of the country ventured further. In quick succession, they engaged an advance security team of President Buhari in a gun match, in his home state of Katsina, and a few weeks after, went into a gun duel with members of his personal/perimeter security team, the 9th Guards Brigade, the pride of the Nigerian Army infantry, at Bwari District in Abuja.

Then, after releasing a chilling video of cruelly flogging abducted train passengers who had not secured their ransoms, the terrorists pressed ahead, this time with a message to the president: This is our message to the government of Nigeria, and just as you have seen these people here, by Gods grace, you will see your leaders. Your senators and governors will come before us, they promised, then proposed that: these ones you are seeing here, we will keep some as our slaves and sell them off just as our Imam told you in the past. Just like the Chibok girls that were sold off, we will equally sell these ones as slaves. Just in case the country thought this was a joke, and the government failed to address their demands, the terrorists pressed on a personal touch: If you dont adhere to our demands, we will kill the ones we need to kill and sell the remaining. By Gods grace, El-Rufai, Buhari, we will bring you here.

The messaging was intense craftsmanship. Referencing Chibok was meant to convey multiple lessons to a now hapless country struggling to make sense of its presidency. Hakuna matata. Eight years ago, a still ideologically and organisationally inchoate Boko Haram obtained an instant global celebrity status when it abducted 276 students of the Government Girls Secondary School (GGSS), Chibok, in Borno State. A global hashtag #BringBackOurGirls enlisted proud bearers from the four corners of the world, including the United Nations leadership. The then American First Lady, Michelle Obama, felt honoured to pose with the #BringBackOurGirls poster.

ISWAPs Chibok messaging was to bring back the memory of a failing leadership. As such, for those who might want to argue that one of the great ironies of that unfortunate mass abduction was the emergence of the Safe Schools Initiative, which has now helped rebuild and put back some 50,000 children to school in Nigerias North-east, where Boko Harams antediluvian ideology woefully conflates secular education (the backbone of modern civilisation) with Western education, and therefore outlawed it as unacceptable, ISWAP wanted to remind Nigerians that at the time of this occurrence, the role that President Muhammadu Buharis party played was in orchestrating the impeachment of then President Goodluck Jonathan, who they mercilessly dubbed as clueless.

Today, eight years after the Chibok tragedy, with many of the girls still in captivity, another 1,500 children in captivity all over the country, and with kidnapping itself now elevated into a thriving industry, run by terrorists and professional kidnappers, complete with a spotted business model (all these under the watch of a president with famous claims as a tough military general), the temptation is irresistible to compound the images, the context, and the messages on screen, then and now, with a verdict that if President Jonathan lacked an adequate appreciation of Section 14:2[b] of the Constitution of the country, that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government, President Muhammadu Buhari has certainly not convinced Nigerians that any lessons have been learnt in that department.

For this reason, the subliminal morals in ISWAPs cynical promise to abduct the president, along with other senior elected officials, must be keenly extracted. Neither the position of the vituperative Islamic cleric who has endorsed this sneering proposal in a viral video, nor the mocking comments by the presidents one-time ally, Buba Galadima, should be allowed to endure.

The president is the representation of the collective will of citizens in their democratic quest for purposeful leadership and that is why, in a co-equal branch democracy, the president is invested with the status of Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. To be sure, some will come short, some adequate, others will perform beyond the call of duty. Ultimately, the hope is that the actual practices and exercise of democratic demands will bring all the components into proper alignment, with each branch playing its role dutifully  alongside citizens, the press, and civil society organisations, all carrying their can with dignity and responsibility.

That said, a more helpful way to understand the ISWAP plan to abduct the president is a call to evaluate his stewardship and presidency at the twilight hour of his eight-year leadership as Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces; the one job we hired him to perform in 2015. In this quest, the economy, insecurity, and unemployment are the three valid themes to assess. For whereas the APC developed a 15-point platform for the 2015 election and campaigned on those grounds, once elected, President Buharis shocking revelation was that he only campaigned to work on the three purposes of the economy, insecurity, and unemployment!

On scrutiny, the president was right. While the party was busy selling the vision of a world beyond PDP and the Jonathan presidency, Buhari himself, as most people have said, never spoke outside his chosen triangular themes. He would later consecrate this vision in his legendary inauguration speech of I belong to everybody, and I belong to nobody, a frisky but laden annunciation of a president destined to govern independently of his partys preferences; a president who has, in essence, used a party as a special purpose vehicle to achieve the goal of a long sought presidential ambition.

With unemployment steadily peaking in double digits, the economy near comatose, the official testimonials of Buharis problematic presidency, in these two departments alone, would recommend him for a failing grade. Regarding his management of the insurgency, however, President Buhari owes Nigeria a special session of debriefing. He sought and built the security and intelligence institutions to his preference in ethnic choice, religious inclination, and operational idiosyncrasy. He has had a rubber-stamp parliament, and a relatively well-resourced appropriation to the sector. The judiciary, once cowed, became pretty much a compliant body, so there was really no excuse for the awfully reprehensible grades the president has obtained in this regard.

PREMIUM TIMES proposes that the administration should retool its gaze to a robust assertion of the human development elements in the definition of its security mindset, to embrace true investment tokens for rural citizens, an honest agricultural and water policy, processing and value addition to primary agricultural and mining activities, as well as a massive jobs programme for young people. If this is complemented with a functioning primary health care policy, it will become apparent that the current counter-insurgency strategy has merely built a massive war economy around the pockets of Generals, military contractors and their political allies. Sadly too, big guns and bombs may sound sexy, yet they never won wars of poverty, inequality and minds made warped by disinformation. In the short run, also addressing policing, as in the absurd case of Niger State, where 4,000 policemen and women are providing security across nine million hectares, will be a meaningful step to take. This will be through expanded enlistments, community-focused enforcement, and technological support. In the final analysis, a decentralised policing philosophy needs to percolate into our policy landscape quicker.

As a complement, serious and targeted attention to current rural communication and rural power development policies will also be a huge step in the right direction. A listening ear, however, will be the most solid asset of all. Ability and willingness to listen to every shade of opinion in the understanding that diversity is a strength, not a curse, especially in a pluralistic community.

The president, now virtually a lame duck, cannot be expected to renew himself radically around these proposals. It is on this ground, at any rate, that the opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), proposed in the National Assembly last week to move for impeachment proceedings against the president. PREMIUM TIMES wishes to differ. Impeachments are powerful tools to cure failing elected office holders of their accountability deficits; but as a former lawmaker, Shehu Sani, said on PREMIUM TIMES Twitter Spaces last week, putting Buhari through this process now will be time-wasting, a loud distraction, and an unachievable goal. It is just eight months until the election of a new president, and that may be the best path for Nigerians to demonstrate their preference.
As Kenyans go to the poll on Tuesday to elect a new president, members of the countrys national parliament, governors, and other officials, here are ten things to know about the election:

One:

There are over 22 million voters according to the countrys electoral commission, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The commission has at least up till next Monday to announce the winner of the presidential election.

Two:

The voters will elect the fifth president of the East African country since its independence in 1963. In chronological order, the three past presidents and the outgoing one are: Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel Moi, Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta

Three:

Though a multiparty democracy, the election, according to local analysts and observers, is a two-horse race between Raila Odinga and the incumbent Vice President, William Ruto. The two candidates are veteran political operators who are known to the people.

Four:

Raila Odinga, 77, a former prime minister and scion of the late Oginga Odinga, is contesting on the platform of Azimio La Umoja(Declaration of Unity) Alliance, while, his main challenger, William Ruto, is contesting on the platform of Kenya Kwanza (Kenya First) Alliance.

Five:

The outgoing President, Uhuru Kenyatta, is backing Raila Odinga, who is contesting for the fifth time, against his deputy, William Ruto, who broke ranks with Mr Kenyatta to take part in the election.

Six:

The two other candidates in the election are George Wajackoyah, 63, a lawyer and academic, who is running on the platform of the Roots Party of Kenya while the last candidate, a serial contestant for sundry offices, David Mwaure, a pastor and lawyer, is contesting on the platform of the Agano Party of Kenya.

READ ALSO:

Seven:

This is the first time, in recent elections, that the largest ethnic group in the country, the Kikuyu tribe, the tribe of the incumbent president, wont be having a presidential candidate in the election. The region also commands the highest voting bloc in the country.

Eight:

Knowing what the strength of the Kikuyu voting bloc is all about, the two major candidates  Odinga and Ruto  respectively picked their vice presidential candidates from the region.

Nine:

To emerge as president, the winning candidate must win at least 50 per cent of the valid votes cast, plus one more, and at least 25 per cent of the votes in 24 of the countrys 47 counties. And if no candidate passes the bar, a run-off vote between the two top contenders must be held within 30 days.

Ten:

For the first time in its history, Kenya might be having a female vice president as three of the four vice presidential picks are women.
Africas regional groups should form the building blocks of an integrated African Union (AU). On a vast continent with 55 countries, such associations make good sense. Working optimally, they enable member states to efficiently deal with cross-border security, developmental and economic issues, and jointly take on proactive projects.

But the continents eight regional economic communities (RECs) and two regional mechanisms collectively have 106 members. That means most countries are part of more than one bloc, which stretches capacity and leads to confusion, divided loyalties and weak functioning. The AU envisages incremental integration to streamline the regional blocs, but progress has been slow.

Next week, for example, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) holds its annual summit in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which belongs to three RECs. These are SADC, the East African Community (EAC) and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). Kinshasas diplomatic capacity will be tested.

The various blocs performance also differs dramatically. The EAC  with its regional parliament and plans for a confederation  is economically the continents most integrated region, according to a report presented at the 17 July AU-RECs coordination meeting in Lusaka, Zambia. This is followed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and SADC.

The Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) is the least integrated bloc. Its a relic from when Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi dreamt of being president of a United States of Africa and created a group of states loyal to him. CEN-SAD, with 24 members, last had a proper summit in 2013. Its hard to see what value the body adds since all its members already belong to other RECs.

The Arab Maghreb Union (AMU), with five members, is another weakly integrated REC. It suffers the effects of the perennial Algeria and Morocco conflict and the 2011 implosion of the Libyan government. AMU is sustained through a secretariat in Rabat and represented at meetings, although not at a high level. Ironically, AMU contributes the most to the AU budget since Morocco and Algeria are among the big five contributors in this region.

AMU countries have tried to join other established RECs but with little success. Morocco first applied to join ECOWAS in February 2017. After being led to believe it had the green light  albeit with reluctance from Nigeria, the blocs most prominent member  Moroccos status remains unconfirmed. Tunisia also tried to deepen its ECOWAS links and signed an agreement with the body in 2018. But neither Morocco nor Tunisia borders any ECOWAS countries. Mauritania does, but it left ECOWAS in 1999.

For most other states, their multiple memberships  often referred to as the AUs spaghetti bowl  require keeping abreast of fast-changing economic, political and security realities. But states have limited resources to participate fully in more than one African multilateral institution. Already the AU struggles to get member states to pay their annual fees.

And embassies in Addis Ababa are notoriously understaffed, as are diplomatic representations at REC headquarters. The non-implementation of summit decisions is often attributed to a lack of capacity, which undermines their reputations among the public.

The DRC was the latest country to join another bloc when it became an EAC member in April. This should bring significant economic advantages for the DRC and the organisations six other members  Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda and South Sudan.

The DRC has significant natural resources, and its population of 90 million adds to the attraction of any regional grouping, especially the EAC, which is well integrated economically. One EAC country official quipped that it now gives the EAC a reach from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic, with the DRC port of Matadi coming into its fold. Plans are also afoot to send a new EAC military force to the eastern DRC.

At the Lusaka mid-year meeting, AU Commission chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat said there should be clear direction regarding membership of RECs to maximise efficiency. Others said multiple memberships created chaos and shouldnt be allowed, given the constraints and lack of cohesion it entails.

Delegates agreed on the advantages of inter-regional cooperation, such as the free trade agreement of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, the EAC and SADC. This successful example of economic cooperation now includes 27 member states. But its yet to come into effect. Meanwhile, the African Continental Free Trade Area is advancing rapidly. As of July, 43 states had ratified it, while 54 out of 55 had signed (Eritrea hasnt).

Beyond the obvious value of facilitating intra-African trade, regional blocs create political coherence and shared values. They are called on to respond to coups, unconstitutional changes of government and security threats such as violent extremism. ECOWAS has been fairly successful in taking a united stand against military coups. But attempts to enforce decisions against leaders third-term bids have repeatedly failed due to differing political views.

SADC still has strong political links among its former liberation movements that retain power in several member states. However, as a regional body, it hasnt managed to implement the free movement of people. The strength and viability of these blocs also depend on the capacity of their organisations and the buy-in of citizens.

Relations between the AU and regional organisations remain problematic, despite several attempts to achieve a strict division of labour. Mahamat says a proposal to resolve the friction will be discussed at the AUs February 2023 summit. This is vital for better coordination. A decision on overlapping RECs would also bring greater coherence and efficiency to Africas many regional organisations.

Liesl Louw-Vaudran, Senior Researcher, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Pretoria

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).
President Muhammadu Buhari has directed the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed, to suspend plans to begin the deduction of $418 million Paris Club refund allegedly owed four contractors from the federation account, PREMIUM TIMES has learnt.

Sources privy to details of the Executive Council of the Federations deliberations told this newspaper that the president gave the directive at the FEC meeting of August 3, where the matter was extensively discussed.

Governors of Nigerian states under the umbrella of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) had last week resisted attempts to commence the deduction plan. The governors, in a letter to the federal government, through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, argued that an attempt to restart the deduction process, which is being challenged in the courts and for which the Supreme Court has made a pronouncement, would be unconstitutional.

The letter, signed by the Chairman of the NGF and outgoing governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, described the new move as an attempt by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, and the Minister of Finance (HMF) to circumvent the law and the recent judgement of the Supreme Court by surreptitiously securing the approval of the FEC to effect payment of the sum of $418 million to four contractors who allegedly executed contracts in respect of the Paris Club refunds to the states and local governments.

Buharis Intervention

At the FEC meeting on Wednesday, PREMIUM TIMES understands Mrs Ahmed and Mr Malami tabled a memo asking the cabinet to approve the restart of the deductions from funds due to states from the federation account.

Sources told this newspaper that prior to Wednesdays meeting, the governors had separately written to all ministers explaining their position and seeking their intervention to stop the planned deduction being vigorously pushed by the ministers of justice and finance.

Our sources said after Mrs Ahmed, and Mr Malami made their presentations, they were immediately fiercely countered in quick succession by the Minister of Works, Babatunde Fashola; the Minister of State for Labour, Festus Keyamo; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha and two other cabinet members.

The FEC members who spoke against the deduction were said to have told the meeting that it would be sub-judicial for any payment to be made to the contractors while cases are pending in courts.

They also reportedly argued that it was insensitive of Mrs Ahmed and Mr Malami to have tabled a proposal for the payment of controversial debts to contractors at a time the government is struggling to pay workers and fulfil its obligations to citizens.

The ministers argued that since the issue is being challenged in court, and there is a supreme court pronouncement in place, it would be illegal to go ahead with the planned deductions, a source told this newspaper. The argument against the planned deductions was also made within the context of the nations economic crisis, poor revenue, and uncertain fiscal position.

Against the backdrop of the arguments advanced by the ministers, Mr Buhari was said to have spoken in support of the ministers position, adding that the planned deductions being allegedly championed by both Mr Malami and Mrs Ahmed be suspended until the courts make their final pronouncements.

In their letter to Buhari last week, the governors argued that the essence of the definitive pronouncement by the Supreme Court is that none of the contractors recommended for payment of the sum of $418 Million by the AGF and finance minister can be so paid because the contracts and payments relied upon were not processed as prescribed by the constitution and the law.

Controversies

President Buhari had initially approved the payment of the money to the contractors through the issuance of promissory notes. The presidents approval was based on proposals by the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and the Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed. The plan was, however, fiercely resisted by the 36 state governors who approached the court for redress through their attorneys-general.

The governors argued that the matter was on appeal at the Court of Appeal in Abuja, adding that the Nigerian government should exercise restraint in its handling of the matter.

Significantly, while that appeal is pending, one of the contractors, who is a beneficiary of the Promissory Notes in the sum of $USD 142,028,941.95, Riok Nigeria Limited and who had lost at the Court of Appeal, further appealed to the SC in SUIT NO: SC 337/2018 BETWEEN: RIOK NIGERIA LIMITED V INCORPORATED TRUSTEES OF NIGERIA GOVERNORS FORUM &7 ORS. The Supreme Court on 3rd June 2022 also dismissed Rioks appeal as lacking in merit, the NGF said.

The governors argued that the Supreme Court had, on the occasion, made clear that neither the NGF nor ALGON had the power to award contracts and charge the same directly to the Federation Account as done in this case.

The dismissal of RIOKS case by the SC also affected the payment of $1,219,440.45 and $215,195.36 to two private lawyers to RIOK, NWAFOR ORIZU and OLAITAN BELLO, who are also beneficiaries of Promissory Notes by the DMO, the letter said.

Besides RIOK and the two lawyers, the States have also challenged either on appeal or other courts the claims by the other contractors including DR. TED ISIGHOHI EDWARDS ($159,000,000), NED NWOKO ($68,658,192.83) and PANIC ALERT SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD ($47,831,920). These cases are pending, and no steps ought to be taken to enforce the Judgment and alter the status quo until the matters are fully determined. A Caveat issued to restrain all parties concerned and the public from dealing or honouring Promissory Notes issued had earlier been published.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lucky Irabor, a general, says the masterminds of the 5 June massacre in Owo, Ondo State, have been captured by security operatives.

No fewer than 40 worshippers were massacred at the St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, in an incident that jolted Nigeria and the global community.

Scores of other worshippers also sustained varying degrees of injuries in the tragic incident.

Speaking at a parley with media executives at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, Mr Irabo said the terrorists were captured at different locations across the country.

He said the suspects, the majority of whom were arrested in various communities in Kogi State, would be paraded before the public in due course.

We had wanted to present the suspects to the public immediately but couldnt because certain investigations are still being carried out, he said.

He assured that in due course, the suspects and others who had been involved in some daring attacks in the past few months would be presented to the public.

Starting with the Owo church attack, it is my pleasure to let you know that we have arrested those behind that dastardly act.

On August 7, one Idris Ojo (37) was apprehended at Aiyetorosi in Ondo State. He was one of the high-profile Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) members that escaped from Kuje Prison.

He was arrested along with one Jimoh Ibrahim, a 39-year-old criminal.

Ojo was not done with all the criminal activities which he undertook in the past, he was also planning other deadly attacks and he was perfecting those plans along with his cronies before he was captured, he said.

Again, on August 4, the military in a combined operation with the Department of State Service (DSS) arrested four terrorists at Eika in Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Others are Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, otherwise known as Ibn Malik; Momoh Abubakar, Aliyu Itopa and Auwal Onimisi.

Now, Omeiza is one of the masterminds of the June 5 Catholic Church attack in Owo as well as the attack on the police station in Adavi also in Kogi State that led to the killing of a policeman as well as weapons being carried away, the CDS said.

On the Abuja-Kaduna train attack, Mr Irabor said that although some victims had been released, the military and other security agencies remained committed to ensuring the safe rescue of the remaining victims in captivity.

He said the military had intensified both air and ground operations to deal with criminals in all parts of the country, adding that several successes had been recorded in recent times.

Mr Irabo disclosed that based on military air operations, the military on 6 August killed one Alhaji Abdulkareen, a bandits leader along with his fighters in Nigerias North-west.

By the deeds of the surgical air operations that we have conducted, many of the bandits leaders have been killed, he added.

The CDS said the essence of the parley was to solicit understanding and support from the media in the fight against the security challenges bedevilling the nation.

He, however, called for greater cooperation between the military and the media with a view to finding solutions to the security challenges and disallowing enemies from stoking fears in the minds of the public.

The defence chief also urged Nigerians and political leaders to understand the distinction between military operations and politics, adding that the military remained undaunted in ensuring a safe and secured nation.

Earlier, the Director, Defence Information, Jimmy Akpor, a major general, said the essence of the parley was to build a sustainable trust between the media and members of the armed forces.

Mr Akpor said the meeting was in line with the leadership focus of Mr Irabor toward fostering professional armed forces capable of meeting constitutional imperatives.

The Chief Executive Officer of The Media Today, Charles Odenigbo, said the military and media must be frank and open to each other in ensuring peace and security in the country.

Mr Odenigbo, the facilitator of the event, said that although military operations could not be discussed in the open, there was a need to see how the media could fit into the activities of the military.

(NAN)
MANZINI  Part of the government machinery came to a grinding halt yesterday as offices and schools did not render services.

The government machinery stopped operations following an audio clip purporting to be a threat announcement by an anonymous commander. The audio advised security forces to withdraw their services in defending the Tinkhundla System of Government, while also making a litany of threats which cannot be repeated given their nature. In the audio, the members of the State security organs were given 14 days (which elapsed last Friday), to withdraw the said services. This audio clip came at a time when the nation was still anticipating partaking in a national dialogue, which political parties have been calling for, subsequent to the political unrest experienced in June /July 2021.

This was subsequent to the stalemate between government and the Public Sector Union (PSUs) of Swaziland, wherein the latter advised civil servants to stay put in their places of abode in fear of the threats which were supposedly issued by the commander and the former insisting that the purported threats were a hoax. Yesterday, a majority of government services were not rendered as the offices were vacated by civil servants as early as 10am. Services like the issuance of travel documents, birth and death certificates; national identity documents and paying for government services at Revenue Offices, were not available. The closure of some government ministries and departments resulted in a number of people returning home without any assistance. Some offices and departments were operating in the morning, but were closed at about 10am as there was fear of the unknown.

Locked

The offices and departments had their doors locked and padlocks hanging from the burglar proof doors. Some people in Manzini were seen waiting in anticipation that the offices would be later opened for them to access services; however, this did not happen and they ended up leaving after lunch. On the other hand, learners in most schools were ordered to return home. This was said to be as a result of some parents not allowing their children to attend lessons yesterday. Some head teachers said they had to release the learners early in spite of the on-going examinations. They claimed that they could not proceed with the examination while other pupils were not present. The head teachers, who spoke to this publication, expressed fear that the examinations could be thrown into disarray as they did not know what would happen during the course of the week.

They said the examinations were critical as the grades accorded to learners were the ones used to secure places in the next grades for those sitting for external examinations. Also, some of the head teachers acknowledged that there were teachers who had not reported for work and their suspicions were that the threats which had been circulated regarding their safety were the cause. They also highlighted that there was uncertainty on the availability of public transport, which might have deterred the teachers and learners from attending the lessons of the day.

Meanwhile, in most bus ranks across the country, public transport was operational and available. However, despite its availability, there were minimal commuters. Despite the threats which advised the public to stay at home, textile workers in Matsapha had reported for work yesterday morning. However, they did not work the whole day like in most instances as they were released early. This publication started monitoring the situation in Matsapha at 6am and at that time, public transport vehicles operating between Manzini/Matsapha Industrial Site were available, thus the workers managed to get to work on time.

Factories

At around 8am, this publication visited some of the textile factories located in the industrial hub of the country and found that they were operating normally and at 100 per cent workforce.

However, later on, it was gathered that some factories released their workers just after the lunch-hour. A source close to the matter said the factories decided to release the workers early for their safety. In fact, he said they took the unrest threats seriously, because of what happened in June/July 2021, where workers who were going to work were caught in the crossfire.

They feared that the threats could materialise and the workers lives would be at risk when going back home in the late afternoon, thus they released them early, the source said.

It was further reported that there was also uncertainty regarding the availability of public transport, thus some of the employers in the sector decided to release the workers early while public transport vehicles were still available. Some of the employers confirmed that they released the workers before knock- off time for their safety. They said they would be monitoring the situation and they had also asked the workers to update them so that they could plan ahead.

Meanwhile, the Eswatini Textile and Apparel Traders Association (ETATA) Chairperson, Tokky Hou, confirmed earlier on the day that workers managed to report for duty in the factories yesterday. However, she could not be reached for a comment later on as her mobile phone rang unanswered for the better part of yesterday afternoon. A WhatsApp message was sent to her, but she had not responded by the time of compiling this report.
Nigerian stocks fell 2.3 per cent or N614.4 billion on Tuesday as sell pressure on the shares of Dangote Cement and MTN Nigeria weighed on the benchmark index, plunging it to its weakest level since 28 April.

Transaction volume fell by 33 per cent compared to previous sessions, while turnover similarly declined by 24 per cent.

Market breadth, an indicator of investors sentiment towards trade, closed negative as 16 laggards emerged, relative to 12 gainers. The remaining 83 participating stocks did not record price movement.

This week, we expect the impact of the increased benchmark lending rate on equity markets to continue to take effect, returning to a bear market, said analysts at investment bank United Capital in an outlook note seen by PREMIUM TIMES.

Investors are expected to continue cherry-picking stocks with solid underlying fundamentals.

The all-share index dropped 1,139 basis points to close at 49,350.7, while market capitalisation eased to N26.6 trillion.

Year to date, the index is up by 15.5 per cent.

TOP FIVE GAINERS

NEM led gainers, appreciating by 10 per cent to close at N3.74. Prestige grew by 10 per cent to end trade at N0.44. Ellah Lakes went up by 9.78 per cent to N3.93. Multiverse rose to N2.06, notching up 9.57 per cent in the process. Ikeja Hotel climbed up by 9.28 per cent to N1.06.

ALSO READ: Naira stable at official forex market

TOP FIVE LOSERS

Cornerstone topped the losers chart declining by 9.33 per cent to close at N0.68. Dangote Cement shed 9.06 per cent to end trade at N241. Japaul Gold fell to N0.34, losing 8.11 per cent in the process. Sovereign Trust dipped to N0.25, recording 7.41 per cent depreciation. Stanbic IBTC closed at N29, going down by 6.45 per cent.

TOP FIVE TRADES

Altogether, 140.6 million shares estimated at N1.6 billion were traded in 3,895 deals.

Japaul Gold was the most active stock, trading 23.2 million shares worth N9 million traded in 98 deals. AIICOs shares of 14.8 million units priced at N8.4 million exchanged hands in 47 transactions.

Sterling Bank had 14.3 million shares valued at N21.4 million traded in 65 deals. Sovereign Trust traded 10.1 million shares estimated at N2.6 million in 8 transactions. GTCO traded 7.9 million shares valued at N161 million in 265 deals.
The Clerk of the House of Representatives, Yahaya Danzaria says the 1962 Oath of Secrecy Act remains in force to prevent the leakage of governments official documents.

He said maintaining secrecy on official government documents remains important for the civil service, hence the existence of the law.

Mr Danzaria spoke on Tuesday at the opening ceremony of a three-day training workshop for staff of the House of Representatives, themed: Legislative Work Ethics and Behavioural Conduct at Work Place.

He stated that the training was organised to ensure that legislative staff give lawmakers the needed support to carry out their functions.

Civil service considers as very important the need to maintain secrecy on official government documents. The Oath of Secrecy of 1962 has remained in force in the civil service to demonstrate the premium government places on official documents. An official who divulges official secret in the civil service is said to have divided loyalty, Mr Danzaria said.

Over the years, getting information from government agencies has been difficult in Nigeria, despite the existence of the Freedom of Information Act.

Passed into law on February 24, 2011, the FOI Act guarantees access by the general public to most data and information held by government agencies. A few issues such as those bordering on national security are, however, exempted.

Shun ethnic, sectional sentiments

The clerk also warned staff against ethnicity and other acts that constitute serious misconduct.

He stated that ethnicity is the use of ethnic and sectional sentiment to confer unmerited and undue advantage to people of same ethnic origin.

Mr Danzaria said there are instances where an ethnic group attempts to dominate the leadership of some government institutions because of the number of officers from such region. Leadership of such institutions is treated as the exclusive preserve of the dominating region.

He noted that the use of ethnic cards in civil service is against the provision of section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution.

Also speaking at the event, the Clerk to the National Assembly, Oladele Ojo, said the quality of the laws produced by the National Assembly depends on the quality of staff supporting the lawmakers.

He stated that though non-lawmakers cannot present bills, the final product depends on the staff of the National Assembly.

Although it is the legislators that have the monopoly of presenting bills during plenary, most of you play critical supportive roles in ensuring the enactment of quality bills. These could be in the conduct of research, drafting, and scrutinising bills, while some of you are responsible for cleaning up the bills and authentication of bills by me, before forwarding for presidential assent.

Your roles in the law-making process are therefore critical to the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria and well recognised by management, he said.
The Labour Party (LP) Governorship Substitution Primary Election for Lagos State has been postponed to Wednesday.

This followed controversies on the delegates list raised by one of the aspirants, Moshood Salvador.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the process had started at Excel-Oriental Hotel, in Oshodi on Monday, when Mr Salvador complained that 26 of his delegates were omitted from the list.

Mr Salvador, who defected to the party from the APC last month, is contesting for the LP ticket with Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour at the partys substitution primaries.

Mr Rhodes-Vivour also defected to the party last month from the PDP.

The Labour Party chairman in Lagos State, Ifagbemi Awamaridi, however, insists he remains the partys governorship candidate.

Mr Awamaridis name is on the list of political parties governorship candidates published by INEC.

Delegates list

Mr Salvador, who alleged that the delegates list for the substitution had been doctored, told journalists before vacating the venue, that his camp could no longer trust the process.

Yesterday, we agreed that he (Rhodes-Vivour) should bring 100 delegates, while I also bring 100 delegates and the state executives will join the delegates to make 217 delegates for the substitution primaries.

When I checked the list about 30 minutes to the primaries, we realised that 26 delegates out of mine have been removed and added to his.

They (electoral officers) told me it was a mistake; that can never be taken as mistake.

 We have done all our best to ensure free and fair primaries. Therefore, I cannot have confidence in this electoral body again.

READ ALSO:

The party will need to reorganise itself. The delegates list has been doctored, therefore we cannot have confidence in this electoral body again, Salvador said.

Calling for the postponement of the primaries, Mr Salvador urged the leadership of the party to be genuine, sincere, honest and fair.

Reacting to Mr Salvadors allegations, Sam Okpala, the Lagos state Secretary of LP and Chairman of the LP Substitution Primary Election Planning Committee in the state, explained that the issues raised bordering on the omission of some names in his delegates list could be a typographical error.

Mr Okpala, who noted that the party was known for internal democracy, promised all aspirants a free, transparent and credible primary election.

Whatever issue on ground, we will sought it out. We urge them to exercise patience to see where the problem is coming from, rectify it and hold our primary election.

As far as we are concerned, there was no omission. We have not observed any omission in the list, he said.

When all efforts to resolve the disagreement proved abortive and delegates left after waiting endlessly, Okpala told newsmen that the exercise had been postponed.

The exercise has been postponed to Wednesday, same venue.

On the call for cancellation of the primaries, Mr Okpala said that no aspirant had the power to do so, describing it as a personal opinion.

He said that all the relevant authorities were duly notified for the substitution primaries including INEC and security agents.

Mr Okpala, who expressed surprise at the way an aspirant took just a minor error in the delegates list, said that the party had made efforts to correct all observed errors to give a level playing ground for all aspirants.

It is not new, you can be printing documents and make an error.

We have only printed just a copy and we asked them to go through it. We owned up that we will carry out the corrections. If we have started using it, then he can complain, he said.

According to him, the party leadership agreed on having 100 list each from Messrs Salvador and Rhodes-Vivour, with another 17 state officers.

He said the party leadership had on Sunday, invited both candidates to a meeting to tell them the process in order to ensure fairness to all.

I am surprised to see what is happening today. If the candidates are ready, we will go ahead, if they are not ready we will go back to Abuja, Mr Okpala said.

Defiant guber candidate

On the need for the substitution primaries, Bashiru Apapa, the LP Deputy National Chairman, told journalists that Mr Awamaridi, the LP gubernatorial candidate whose name was published by INEC, was just a placeholder.

He stated that Mr Awamaridi had written formerly that he had withdrawn from that office, adding that when he took the form, he was just a placeholder and that meant that he could be removed.

That means his name can be changed for another candidate, he said.

But Mr Awamaridi has dismissed claims that he had withdrawn as the partys governorship candidate.

He told PREMIUM TIMES on Tuesday that the development within the party in the state is due to greed by the leaders.

I am still the partys candidate recognised by INEC, he added.

In an affidavit of non-withdrawal sworn before the Federal High Court in Abuja, Mr Awamaridi said he had been informed that some national leaders were discussing his replacement as the partys candidate.

He noted that according to the 2022 Electoral Act, the only means of replacing him is through voluntary withdrawal or death.

I hereby state under oath that I did not withdraw my candidature and I am not withdrawing my candidature and I do not intend to withdraw and I shall not withdraw my candidature, Mr Awamaridi stated in the affidavit dated 5th August.

I hereby state under oath that I am alive. I am not dead. I am not incapacitated and I do not consent to any obituary or any death documentation whatsoever done in my name.

(NAN)
An Ikeja Special Offences Court on Tuesday sentenced one Pastor Erinmole Adetokunbo and one Adedoyin Oyekanmi to death for killing a seven-year-old boy for ritual purposes.

Oluwatoyin Taiwo, the judge, sentenced the duo who changed their pleas from not guilty to guilty on Monday.

The convicts were charged with conspiracy to commit murder and murder.

According to the Lagos State government, the convicts committed the offences on 7 June 2017, at No. 6, Oke Oniburokun St., Odokekere, Ikorodu, Lagos.

The government said the duo cut off the childs head and buried it under a `church altar and threw the body into a canal.

The judge held that the case was pathetic, saying that the duo conspired and murdered the child.

The defendants have committed a heinous crime and deserve no mercy.

They have cruelly and intentionally killed a seven-year-old boy. This deprived him and his family of a bright destiny.

Section 222 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State imposes the death penalty for premeditated murder, and I have no hesitation in imposing the said punishment.

I hereby sentence Adedoyin Oyekanmi and Erinwole Adetokunbo to death for killing Kazeem Rafiu. May God have mercy on your souls, she said

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that convicts were arraigned on 30 October 2017, on a two-count charge.

They had pleaded not guilty.

On Monday, prosecution counsel, O. A. Bajulaiye, told the court that the defendants were ready to change their pleas.

The defence counsel, Anthonia Otsokwa, did not object to that.

Consequently, the convicts pleaded guilty to the charges.

The court thereafter reviewed the facts of the case, and the prosecution counsel urged the court to convict them accordingly.

However, Ms Otsokwa prayed the court to temper justice with mercy, saying that her clients had realised their mistakes and were remorseful.

We plead with the court to consider a sentence with terms of imprisonment, she had prayed, but the judge imposed the maximum sentence for murder  death by handing  saying that the duo committed heinous crimes.

NAN reports that the trial started in the case in 2021, with the prosecution calling several witnesses. The convicts pleaded guilty midway.

(NAN)
The State House Clinic, Aso Rock, Abuja, said on Tuesday in Abuja that it was committed to promoting the exclusive breastfeeding of babies.

Thompson Olatipe-Taiwo, head of department, nursing of the clinic, said this at Utako, Abuja, at the flag off of its exclusive breastfeeding campaign for babies as part of the international breastfeeding week.

Breastfeeding is not only safe but very economical and makes mothers go back to normal shape after giving birth, she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the event is Step up breastfeeding, educate and support.

She said Utako was chosen for the event to achieve a very wide reach of the message given its location in the FCT.

Rakiya Ahmed, coordinator, State House Clinic Breastfeeding Week, urged women to ensure that they exclusively breastfed their babies because of its positive implications for their physical development.

This years breastfeeding week wants us to intensify the support and education of breastfeeding involving everybody that has a stake.

And, who are the people involved? They are the community, legislators, we that are health personnel, and of course breastfeeding mothers, and the fathers of these babies, she said.

We chose Utako community because it is a large community within the heart of Abuja, and home to different ethnic groups in Nigeria including the Gwagis Igalas, Tivs.

So by interacting with these people, in various languages we will reach our target audiences, she said.

The highlight of the event was a drama aimed at encouraging exclusive breastfeeding because of its benefits to infants.

(NAN)
The police in Ogun State have dismissed reports that bandits abducted 20 persons at the Kara bridge area of the Lagos-Ibadan highway.

Abimbola Oyeyemi, the police spokesperson in the state, said there was no report of abduction along the expressway on Tuesday.

He described those spreading the fake news as mischief makers, who always derive joy in causing unnecessary panic in the society.

The police statement came amidst heightened tension over reports of an impending attack by terrorists in the South-west region.

Between last Thursday and Sunday, the Ondo State Security Network, also known as Amotekun, intercepted 320 suspected invaders coming from the northern part of the country.

On Monday, Adetunji Adeleye, the Amotekun commander in Ondo, said 168 of the suspects were hidden under cows and motorcycles inside a truck.

Mr Oyeyemi said the reported abduction on the expressway was fake news and urged the public to go about their normal daily activities.

In view of the road construction work going on in that axis, the commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Bankole, has ordered 24hrs surveillance patrol of the area to checkmate the activities of hoodlums who might wanted to take advantage of the traffic jams to perpetrate evils, he added.
President Muhammadu Buhari has joined the media in celebrating with the Managing Editor, Northern Operations of The Nation newspaper, Yusuf Alli, on his 60th birthday.

In a congratulatory message by his spokesman, Femi Adesina, on Tuesday in Abuja, Mr Buhari extolled the journalist for his dedication to duty, devotion to nation building and determination to promote democratic values.

The president noted contributions of the journalist to political developments in the country, as a reporter and editor, regularly updating the public on germane issues with his hallmark of fairness, balance and clarity, which endear many readers to his reports.

Mr Buhari joined the Nigerian Union of Journalists, and Nigerian Guild of Editors, in rejoicing with the prolific reporter and editor, whose interest in humanity recently saw to his investiture as 11th President of Rotary Club of Abuja in Maitama District of Abuja.

The president prayed that the almighty God would guide the celebrator in his service to the nation, and bless his family.

Mr Alli, a former Editor of the Punch newspaper, turned 60 on August 8.

(NAN)
Novelist, playwright, and filmmaker, Biyi Bandele, has died.

A statement released by his family on Monday said he died on Sunday in Lagos.

He was 54.

Temi Bandele, the deceaseds daughter who issued the statement on behalf of the family, described him as a prodigiously talented writer and film-maker, as well as a loyal friend and beloved father.

He was a storyteller to his bones, with an unblinking perspective, singular voice and wisdom which spoke boldly through all of his art, in poetry, novels, plays and on screen. He told stories which made a profound impact and inspired many all over the world. His legacy will live on through his work.

He was taken from us much too soon. He had already said so much so beautifully, and had so much more to say.

We ask everyone to please respect the privacy of his family and friends as we grieve his loss, the statement read.

Biyi was born in Kafanchan, Kaduna State, to parents who were from Abeokuta, Ogun State.

He was studying Dramatic Arts at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile Ife, when he won the BBC Playwriting Competition, and thereafter relocated to England where he had a flourishing career as a writer.

He was a dedicated artist with a strong passion for life and a string of successes in his writing and filmmaking career. His latest work is Elesin Oba, the Kings Horseman (2022), which he adapted from Wole Soyinkas classic drama, Death & The Kings Horseman, and directed for EbonyLife Films. The film is yet to be released but slated to be screened at the Toronto International Film Festival, TIFF, in September.

He had earlier co-directed Blood Sisters, a 4-part Netflix-original television drama series, also for EbonyLife Films. His earlier works include Half of a Yellow Sun (Shareman Media & State Films, 2013) adapted from Chimamanda Adichies novel of same title; Fifty (Ebony Films, 2015). He was also a director of the highly successful Television Series, SHUGA: Whats Your Reality. He directed FELA  Father of Afrobeat (2018), a TV special documentary for the BBC; and his self-produced TV-Movie documentary, Africa States of Independence (2010).

His fiction and non-fiction work include The Street, Burma Boy, a novel, a recreation of the story of his father and other veterans of the Second World War, who served in Burma, India, which he was working on to be adapted for Film. His other writing works include The Man Who Came in from the Back of Beyond, The Sympathetic Undertaker, and Yoruba Boy Running, which he recently concluded and submitted for publishing.

Biyi was a devoted father to his son, Korede and daughter, Temi.
The National Association of Seadogs (NAS) has said the video being circulated on social media in which its members were mocking the APC presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, does not represent the ideals of the group.

Abiola Owoaje, the leader of the group which is also known as the Pyrates Confraternity, said at a press conference in Lagos Monday that they do not have any political affiliation or support any candidate.

We must stress that we are apolitical, as an organisation. We have never had a preferred candidate in any political elections including the forthcoming 2023 general elections, said Mr Owoaje.

The groups statement came amidst criticisms after a video surfaced few days ago showing members, clad in their traditional red and white attire, chanting a song about a presidential candidate whose hands and feet are shaking, yet he is saying it is my turn.

The song was in reference to Mr Tinubus public outburst last June in Abeokuta, where he told members of his party that it is my turn to be president.

Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, the co-founder of the Pyrates Confraternity, called the video distasteful in an interim statement on Monday.

Mr Soyinka, a professor of Comparative Literature, said he would issue a further statement when I have made further enquiries into this strange, uncharacteristic outing of the association.

Unfair characterisation

Initially, the Pyrates Confraternity announced a press conference on Monday to unveil the 70th anniversary logo of the Seadogs.

But at the press conference, Mr Owoaje told journalists that they have shelved their original programme to deal with issues that are fast rising within the public space.

READ ALSO:

In the last 48 hours, our attention has been drawn to a viral video of a song that has raised concerns and commentary across Nigeria. For the avoidance of doubt, between August 4 and August 6, 2022, the National Association of Seadogs Pyrates Confraternity were in Ikeja, Lagos, for our 46th Annual General Meeting, Mr Owoaje began at the press conference, where he said he would not be fielding questions from the reporters.

This event was attended by over 2,000 of our members who came to Lagos from all over the world. As part of the activities, we were at Isheri Primary Health Centre on Thursday the 4th of August where we provided free medical services to the Isheri community. Over 300 people were assisted with various forms of medical treatment.

We were also at the Police Hospital at Area F, Ikeja, where we donated substantial quantities of personal protective equipment and other medical supplies. This is part of our NAS medical mission, which was founded in 2012.

In the 11 years since then, we have organised over 50 free medical missions that have made a difference to many disadvantaged communities across Nigeria.

He said their AGM, which typically includes briefing the media about the groups advocacy, humanitarian, and operational activities for the year, proceeded without event until this extremely limited video made its appearance.

Quite contrary to the manner in which certain aspects of the video are being portrayed, no aspect of this procession or the event itself was political. Rather it was a typical climax of our annual general meeting.

At no time in the history of this organisation has this event or indeed any of our events has any slanted political leanings. Let it be known that the national association of seadogs pyrates confraternity does not mock or discriminate against the physical condition of any person.

It is an unfair characterisation and offends everything that we stand for. Indeed, this could cause offence to even our own members that are also unfortunately afflicted that this would never be condoned.

We have members who belong to different political parties and are absolutely free to support any candidate of their choice. It is most unfortunate that political capital is being made of this, with interpretations that are totally at variance with the philosophy of the Pyrates Confraternity. Unequivocally, we condemn this in very strong terms.

We understand that political merchants, desperately seeking media mileage are all over the place misinforming and twisting events to suit their political agenda.
The police in Imo State said they have arrested eight suspected members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra who allegedly killed four police officers at Agwa Divisional Police Headquarters in Oguta Local Government Area of the state.

The police spokesperson in the state, Michael Abattam, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the four police officers were killed Friday night when gunmen attacked the police facility.

Mr Abattam said the suspects were arrested when police operatives raided their hideouts at about 3 p.m. on Saturday, hours after the attack.

He said the arrest followed a directive by the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ahmed Barde, that those behind the attack must be tracked down.

The police spokesperson said the suspects, on sighting the operatives, engaged them in a shootout.

But the operatives overpowered the suspects and arrested eight of them, while others fled, he said.

The hideouts, according to the police, were between Agwa and Izombe communities in the Oguta Local Government Area.

All the suspects are from the two communities, the police said.

Mr Abattam gave the names of the arrested suspects as Chibuike Obioma, 18; Chidiebere Achazie, 22; Onyedikachi Nwadike, 19; Anayo Onyemere, 51; and Ifeanyi Mboyi, 26.

Others are, Chukwudi Onyeausi, 29; Promise Obodo, 17; and Ebubechi Ifeobu, 22  all males.

On their way out of the hoodlums hideouts, one of the overzealous suspects, Ifeanyi Mboyi, attempted escaping from lawful custody of the operatives and was swiftly demobilised by police operatives, the police spokesperson said.

READ ALSO:

He said the suspect sustained bullet injury on his left leg and was taken to the Federal Medical Center Owerri for medical treatment.

One pump action gun, two locally made guns, six cutlasses, one Biafran flag, eight live cartridges, eight expended cartridges and one masquerade apparel, were among the items recovered from the suspects, according to the police.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Barde, has appealed to residents of the state to join hands with the police and other security agencies in the fight against crimes in the state.

Mr Barde urged residents to report any suspicious activities around their neighbourhoods to the police.
Mubadala Capital, the asset management subsidiary of Mubadala Investment Company, has announced the entry into a definitive agreement to acquire Canada Cartage, a leading logistics platform.



Canada Cartage provides dedicated national fleet solutions, general freight services, managed transportation, fulfilment and distribution, and home delivery services to some of Canadas largest blue-chip companies in the grocery, food, retail, and e-commerce sectors, reported Emirates News Agency WAM.



Canada Cartage currently operates through a network of 33 facilities across Canada and is comprised of two business segments, Dedicated Transportation and Logistics.



The Dedicated Transportation business provides its customers with expert management of their transportation needs, allowing them to realise cost efficiencies and reallocate resources towards core operations. This segment secures essential transportation and distribution services that are embedded into customer operations and are predominantly comprised of contracted partnerships with customers that in many cases span decades and multiple economic cycles.



The Companys Logistics business provides asset-light supply chain solutions including freight management of both inbound and outbound goods, order and inventory management, warehousing, fulfilment, and final delivery to both B2C and B2B end-consumers.



Across both businesses, Canada Cartage is deeply integrated into its customers supply chains, which develops and maintains long-term client relationships and operating efficiency.



Adib Martin Mattar, Head of Private Equity at Mubadala Capital, said: "We have built our private equity business by partnering with exceptional management teams that run great companies. Canada Cartage is a prime example of both, and one that operates in a sector where we have significant expertise, which is business services. We look forward to continuing to work with Canada Cartages management team, employees, and customers to build on the companys strong legacy and support its next phase of growth."



Jeff Lindsay, President and CEO of Canada Cartage, stated: "We are excited to partner with Mubadala Capital to help us to continue building a world-class transportation and logistics business. Their team shares our vision of building an industry leader that focuses on innovative supply chain solutions, strong customer partnerships, and being a great place for people to work."



Mubadala Capital is a differentiated and value-added investor that sources proprietary opportunities and actively leverages Mubadala Investment Companys global network in its various business activities. Its highly disciplined and institutionalised process of evaluating investment opportunities provides unique advantages to the benefit of its investors.



Scotiabank is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Mubadala Capital and CIBC World Markets is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Canada Cartage. BMO Capital Markets, Bank of Nova Scotia and RBC Capital Markets acted as Joint Bookrunners and Co-Lead Arrangers for the financing provided to Mubadala Capital.



The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of Canadian regulatory approvals, and is expected to close in the next 60 days.
The Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has criticized President Muhammadu Buhari over his recent comments on insecurity in the South-east.

Mr Buhari, on Saturday, condemned attacks against non-indigenes and law enforcement officials by terrorists in the South-east.

In a statement by his media aide, Garba Shehu, the president urged community and religious leaders in the region to speak more forcefully against the killings, stand up and defend the ethos of our cultural and religious heritage.

The presidents reaction came amidst reports of the slaying of six Nigerien citizens and the brutal killing of a number of police officers at their duty posts in the region.

But in a statement on Monday by its spokesperson, Chiedozie Ogbonnia, Ohanaeze Ndigbo described President Buharis comments as ethnic prejudice taken too far.

Mr Ogbonnia said the statement presented the South-east as haven for terrorists that attack non-indigenes and law enforcement officials and implied that insecurity has worsened in the region because the leaders have not forcefully spoken.

This is very unfair to the Igbo, especially when the presidency knows the root cause and the nature of the insecurity in the South-east. It needs to be added that the solution to the insecurity in the South-east lies in the enormous powers of the presidency, Mr Ogbonnia said.

According to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the comments appeared to ignore the rising insecurity in other parts of the country, especially in the northern region, citing Boko Haram insurgency, recent attack on presidential guards, and bandits attacks in the FCT, among others.

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In other words, when insecurity manifests in the North-west, it is a national problem; but when on the other hand, it occurs in the South-east, it is blamed on the inability of the community and religious leaders to speak more forcefully against the killings and to stand up and defend the ethos of the nations cultural and religious heritage, he noted.

The Ohanaeze spokesperson explained that the culture of killings was alien to the Igbo-speaking people of South-east and that the leaders of the region have repeatedly condemned the attacks, and have been calling on security agencies to track down the perpetrators.

Surely, the failure of the Nigerian security agents to fish out the criminals cannot be blamed on the Igbos, he said.

The group accused Mr Buhari of ignoring the South-east and appointing service chiefs based on ethnocentric and religious considerations as against military competence.

They stressed that tackling insecurity in the South-east would be difficult in the face of the alleged continuous marginalisation of the region.

It is very uncharitable, if not mischievous, to poison undiscerning minds by insinuating that non-indigenes and security officials are killed by the terrorists in the South-east, he added.
As Russia again accused Ukraine of shelling the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in the south of the beleaguered country, concern grew for the safety of the complex which has seen repeated shelling in recent days.

An accident at the Ukrainian nuclear plant in Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhya would be far worse than the Chernobyl or Fukushima disasters, Yevheny Zymbalyuk, the Ukrainian ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said in Vienna.

He warned of severe consequences not only for Ukraine, but all of Europe.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also warned of the danger of the current situation. Any attack on a nuclear plant is a suicidal thing, Guterres asserted.

What will happen in a radius of 40 or 50 kilometres of the station, that is absolutely not comparable to Chernobyl or Fukushima, Zymbalyuk added.

Analysts however say compared to the plants at Chernobyl and Fukushima, Zaporizhzhya is better protected thanks to a separate cooling circuit and a special protective layer, although it would probably be unable to withstand a targeted military attack.

Zymbalyuk again demanded monitors from the IAEA to be sent to Zaporizhzhya along with unarmed international military observers.

He said IAEA representatives should be on the ground by the end of the month.

The IAEA has long complained that it is waiting to access the plant and said that any deployment would require the support of both Moscow and Kiev.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov urged the West to put pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as Moscow accuses Ukraine of shelling the nuclear plant.

We expect that the countries that have absolute influence over the Ukrainian leadership will use this to prevent further shelling, Peskov said, according to the Interfax agency.

Peskov spoke of a highly dangerous activity with, in the worst case, catastrophic consequences for all of Europe.

With his call for the West to influence the Ukrainian leadership, he once again made it clear that there is no longer a connection between Moscow and Kiev after peace negotiations were broken off in May.

New negotiations are not in sight.

In Washington, a White House spokeswoman Monday said the U.S. continues to closely monitor the activity as the NPP the Department of Energy and the National Nuclear Security Administration report that the radiation sensors are continuing to provide data, and thankfully we have seen no indications of increased or abnormal radiation levels.

And we continue to call on Russia to cease all military operations at or near Ukrainian nuclear facilities and return full control to Ukraine, spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre added.

The Pentagon announced further arms sales to Ukraine, with a billion-dollar package including additional ammunition for rocket launcher systems and 1,000 Javelin anti-tank missiles.

It also estimates that up to 80,000 people have been killed for or injured on the Russian side in the Ukraine war.

Meanwhile, the go-ahead has been given for a referendum on accession to Russia in the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhya region.

The regional governor, Yevhen Balytskyi, said on Monday he was signing a decree ordering the Central Electoral Commission to start to prepare a referendum on the unification of the region with the Russian Federation, according to the Russian state agency Ria Novosti.

Balytskyi spoke at the We are together with Russia forum organised by the occupying forces in Melitopol. Zaporizhzhya, the regional capital, is still under Kievs control.

It is unclear how such a vote, which Ukraine would not recognise, will be organised.

Zelensky has already warned that referendums organised by the occupying forces would end all chances of peace talks with Russia.

Balytskyi did not give a specific date for the planned vote. In the past, the beginning of September was discussed as a possible period.

Meanwhile, a Russian soldier in the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv was sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of war crimes.

The court considered it proven that the tank soldier fired on a multi-storey apartment building, carrying out an order shortly after the war began at the end of February, Ukrainian public television reported on Monday.

The soldier had pleaded guilty and is to be imprisoned for 10 years, but the sentence will only become final after a possible appeal.

(dpa/NAN)
The two main contestants in Kenyas presidential election, Raila Odinga and William Ruto, cast their votes Tuesday morning as Kenyans elect new leaders.

Mr Odinga, contesting for president for the fifth time, according to Debunk Media, cast his vote at 10:51 a.m. (Kenyan time) at Old Kibera Primary school, his polling unit.

Mr Odinga was welcomed by a large crowd at his polling unit.

PREMIUM TIMES had reported Mr Odingas advantage over the incumbent Vice President, William Ruto, after President Uhuru Kenyatta declared support for the former opposition leader.

The polls opened at 6:00 a.m. and will close by 5:00 p.m. Kenyan time.

Mr Ruto arrived at his polling station two minutes before the opening of the polls, according to Debunk Media. He said he did not want to inconvenience his neighbours.

Mr Ruto is contesting under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) but has lost favour with his principal, President Kenyatta.

Analysts, however, say the polls are too close to call.

This is the third General Election to be held under the 2010 Kenyan Constitution.

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The other two candidates  George Wajackoyah and deputy Justina Wambui of Roots Party, and David Waihiga and deputy Ruth Mutua of Agano Party  are seen as fringe candidates and parties.

There are 22,120,458 registered voters in Kenya to decide the fate of about 53 million people. They will be voting for 16,105 candidates, who are vying for a total of 1,879 elective positions.

In the elections, candidates are vying for six positions, namely: president, governors, senators, county women, members of the National Assembly, and members of county assemblies.

In a last-minute turn of events, some elections have been postponed to a later date due to errors on the ballot paper.

According to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), ballot papers for Kakamega County governorship position have wrong gubernatorial candidates pictures and their details printed on them while ballot papers for Mombasa County governorship position have wrong gubernatorial candidates pictures and their details printed on them.

Also, ballot papers for Kachelliba Constituency and Pokot South Constituency have wrong parliamentary candidates pictures and details printed on them.

Chiamaka Okafor is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said not less than 160 million of Nigerias estimated 206 million population are currently at risk of Yellow Fever.

The figure, the global health organisation said, makes up around 25 per cent of all the people at risk of the disease in Africa.

But it confirmed that within the last two years during the Coronavirus pandemic, the country has vaccinated about 45 million people against the disease, almost double the figure of those vaccinated against the rampaging pandemic.

WHO Africa region made the revelation in a recent publication on its official website, noting that the estimated vaccination figure was given by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) at the time of filming two documentaries under its Eliminate Yellow Fever Epidemics (EYE) Strategy.

The EYE Strategy, a partnership between WHO, the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, was said to have been set up in response to Yellow Fever, and it identified Nigeria as a high-risk country.

Disease burden

WHO recalled that since 2016 when the deadly outbreaks of Yellow Fever were recorded in Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which reportedly spread to China, the African continent was put on notice for the disease.

The global health organisation said the EYE Strategy was part of the efforts toward stemming the tide and freeing the affected countries from the consequences associated with the disease.

In her comments, WHOs Medical Officer in Nigeria, Anne Jean-Baptiste, said yellow fever is dangerous because a small percentage of patients will go through a more toxic phase of the disease.

She added that infected people will experience fever, have a system failure, mainly in the kidney and liver, may experience bleeding from the mouth, nose and eyes, within seven to 10 days, and that half of the patients will die.

With Nigeria being the home to some of the worlds most densely populated cities, WHO noted that the country is at risk of both urban and sylvatic (jungle) exposure to the disease. It added that workers in mining and agriculture are particularly vulnerable to the disease.

The global health body attributed the resurgence of yellow fever in 2017, after 15 years, to gaps in the detection of the disease and its transmission.

It, however, noted that as surveillance and laboratory testing have been strengthened, improved information about the distribution of the disease in humans has become available.

Nigerias efforts

In his comments, NCDC Director-General, Ifedayo Adetifa, said despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, his agency has given out over 66 million doses of Yellow Fever vaccines in 2020 and 2021 to protect people from the disease outbreaks.

This achievement has been possible through routine immunisation, as well as mass vaccination campaigns that identify gaps in the population and proactively target vulnerable communities, he noted.

Mr Adetifa also explained that the NCDC has strengthened surveillance considerably, saying: We have reference laboratories in the country that have been strengthened, and are being supported and assessed to make sure they are meeting all the performance parameters in terms of sample collection and referral to our reference labs in Abuja.

Mr Adetifa features in a second film that documents the roll-out of a vaccination campaign in Taraba State and brings to light the global effort required to keep Nigerians safe.

New films

The two films by the EYE Strategy showed the impact of Yellow Fever outbreaks in Taraba State, and the global efforts to eliminate the disease by 2026.

EYEs goal, WHO said, is to eliminate yellow fever epidemics by 2026, through a single-shot vaccine that gives lifelong immunity and aims to protect almost 1 billion people in Africa and the Americas.

In one of the films, Muhammed Awal, a father of five from Taraba State, who lost his second child to Yellow Fever, recounted his familys tragedy and efforts to ensure protection for the rest of his children.

I lost my second child to yellow fever. It was a very traumatising experience for my family and me, explains Mr Awal, We rushed the child to hospital when he started showing symptoms of the disease, and he died two to three days after because his internal organs had been very damaged.
The Ondo State Security Network, also known as Amotekun Corps, has given insight into how 168 persons stealthily made their way into the state armed with charms and weapons.

According to the Corps Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, the suspected invaders were carefully hidden under almost 100 cows and 40 motorcycles to evade security operatives.

Mr Adeleye made the disclosure while addressing journalists in Akure on Monday.

The 168 persons are among the 320 suspected individuals the Corps intercepted coming from the northern part of the country.

While describing the development as an invasion of the southwest, Mr Adeleye condemned the action.

On the 7th of August, our stop and search team intercepted these two trailers loaded with cows and they told them that they are on their way to Ondo state, but on careful examinations, we found out that they carefully concealed about 40 motorcycles with over a 100 people lying beneath the motorcycles, he said.

The upper floor has cows, the middle has motorcycles wrapped and dismantled, while the lower floor has over 100 people lying on each other, such that if you are not careful, you will not observe it.

I call it invasion because we can see over 100 able-bodied men who were concealed under animals, we see droppings of cows on their bodies and the motorcycles. For them to be able to stand such a horrific situation,

they must be up to some negative motives.

So, we questioned them on where they were going and why they packed themselves and why they were avoiding the people and they said they were coming to Ondo State, Akure, and upon interrogation, all of them do not have any address, nobody invited them and we are becoming curious about this invasion.

We had just commenced profiling now, but I think we want to tell people of the state to be weary of visitors because nobody knows how many of such had managed to enter the system, but for these ones that we have seen, we saw them with various dangerous charms and other items we are yet to ascertain what their mission is.

But to those ones who said they own the motorcycles, they confessed that none of the motorbikes had papers. Of course, they photocopied some papers, but you can see one engine number in thirty motorcycles, which clearly showed that they are all forged documents.

Those who claimed to be the owners, we will find out how they got those motorbikes and also find out their mission in Ondo state and like we said, if they dont have any credible thing to do and we dont find anything incriminating on them, we will send them back.

To those that are suspected to have stolen these motorcycles, we take them to court.

Mr Adeleye further said that the major reason the corps was stopping them was the suspicion they could be used as elements of insecurity in the region.

He added that the leadership of Miyetti Allah had also said they were unaware of their movements into the state.

This is where the investigation is leading us to, because the majority of these invaders are coming from Kano, Jigawa and they are just picked along the road, what they told them is just to enter, when we get to where we are going, we will tell you your mission. Mr Adeleye further said.

So, to somebody who is not even ready to tell you the truth about where they are coming from and dont forget as a Nigerian, they have the right to go lawfully to any part of the country, it is the unlawful aspect of what they are doing that we are contesting.

As a Nigerian, regardless of which geopolitical zone you come from, you can transact business around the whole county but if you now move in a suspicious way, that will amount to criminality like wandering, this is where we put you into consideration.

Right now, we have a total number of 168 people carefully concealed under the cows and under motorbikes inside the two vehicles.

They all carry charms, daggers, and a number of incriminating things that we are yet to ascertain the true ownership but what they have told us is that all these 40 motorbikes do not have one single paper.

Last week, the corps intercepted about 151 persons in a similar movement from the same part of the country.

A case of suspicious mass movement was also unravelled in Ibadan last week.

The apprehensions are connected to rumoured threats by terrorists to attack the South-west region of the country.

Bello Garba, the chairperson Miyetti Allah, Ondo State, said I dont know these people and they dont know me too, I didnt bring them.
Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has confirmed the arrest of the attackers of St Francis Catholic Church, Owo.

The incident, which happened on 5 June, left at least 40 worshippers dead and scores of others injured.

Mr Akeredolu confirmed the arrest shortly after the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lucky Irabor, announced that some of the attackers had been arrested at a media parley in Abuja on Tuesday.

Mr Irabo, a general, also stated that the military was on the trail of the other attackers, saying that as soon as they conclude their investigation, they would parade the attackers.

In a statement through his spokesperson on Tuesday, Mr Akeredolu further disclosed that the owner of the house where the attackers stayed before the June attack in Owo had also been arrested

He noted that government did not spare a moment in trailing the terrorists since the horrendous attacks on innocent worshipers at the St Francis Catholic Church, Owaluwa, Owo.

The statement noted that the governor spoke during a courtesy visit to his office by the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) led by the chairperson of the Council, Leke Adegbite.

He said:Now that the military has announced it, I can tell you that five of them have been arrested now. They are still on the trail of the rest. The home where they lodged in Owo and the person that accommodated them before the attack, has also been arrested.

We did not spare a moment. I am happy that the Chief of Defence Staff has announced it. We have known for a while but we needed not to come out with it because more works are still ongoing. I can confirm that this arrest has been made. And they are still on the trail of some of them.

Warning to Ebira youth

Meanwhile, Governor Akeredolu has also called on leaders of the Ebira community in the state to warn their youth not to copy the bad venture of kidnapping.

The governor said recent reports from victims of kidnap in the state have established that some Ebira indigenes are now involved in the unwholesome act.

He noted that the Ebiras have lived together with the people of the state peacefully for several decades, adding that they have always been supportive and hardworking.

I want to use this medium to urge our brothers to concentrate on their farming trade. It will be unfortunate to know that the Ebiras in our midst are now involved in kidnapping.

We are appealing to them not to copy bad things. The traders selling by the roadside should not become informants. We are not fighting them.

We have seen their numbers, they supported and voted for us during elections. I will call their leaders and talk to them. Our brothers who were kidnapped on their way to Ikare, talk to them. They were taken to Ebira farmsteads.

For me, we have lived together for too long for this to happen. I am ready to make any effort to ensure that the conviviality that we have enjoyed continues. But we are begging their leaders to urge them not to copy bad things. They are in our midst, we are surrounded by them. The issue of security is key and its dynamic. Governor Akeredolu said.

The governor, who thanked the NUJ in the state for the cooperation extended to his administration, assured them of sustained efforts at developing the state.

More on security

Meanwhile, Governor Akeredolu has disclosed that aside from the recent recruitment and training of new Amotekun personnel, 20 hunters and local vigilantes will be trained by the Amotekun Corps in each of the eighteen local government areas in the state.

Earlier, the chairman of the NUJ, Ondo State Council thanked the Governor for his support for the management of OSRC and Owena Press PLC, adding that the upgrade of facilities in the two state-owned media outfits is commendable.

He equally appreciated the Governor for the approval of the weigh-in allowance for journalists and information officers working in the state and local government services.
President Muhammadu Buhari has urged political leaders to stay focused and uphold the ultimate objective of promoting interest of the country.

The president, who made the call when he received former State Chairmen of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) at the State House, Abuja, on Tuesday, said: We are Nigerians, God willing we remain Nigerians, and Nigeria shall remain one.

Mr Buhari said the passion and zeal for improving the livelihood of Nigerians, which culminated in creation of the political party had not dwindled, calling for more steadfastness as Nigerians.

The President said the self-centeredness that led to the loss of about a million lives between 1967-1970 must not be allowed to repeat itself.

He maintained that the CPC was founded on the bedrock of patriotism and loyalty to the unity of Nigeria.

Our main objective was the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We are human beings.

We have our weaknesses, but I can assure you that the patriotism in us is hard earned.

We have gone through all the troubles from 15th of January 1966 to date. You know what I mean by this, we have killed a million of ourselves in order to keep this country together.

I dont think there can be any practical experience more than that. We are Nigerians, God willing we remain Nigerians and Nigeria will remain one, he said.

Mr Buhari urged all members of defunct CPC and political leaders to always be mindful of the larger picture by working towards preserving the unity, peace and integrity of the nation.

The president thanked former chairpersons of the political party, which was merged to form the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), for always highlighting the achievements of the government.

He, however, admitted that some areas would surely get more attention.

I am delighted to welcome the forum of State Chairmen of the former Congress for Progressives Change to State House today.

I accord great significance to this visit as it demonstrates a determination and commitment to identify with our administration.

This visit recalls the solidarity with the successes that we have recorded in critical areas of our society.

The visit also affords us the opportunity to discuss other issues of interest to the forum.

I commend members of this forum and all members of the legacy party-CPC, for their continued dedication to the ideals of democratic governance that we all believed in.

The doggedness with which we pursued our vision and goals that culminated into the success we recorded remain like bright stars in the history of our dear nation, he added.

Mr Buhari said he was particularly grateful for the unalterable belief the members of CPC and, by extension the Nigerian electorate, had and still have in me.

He said this was demonstrated in their unalloyed support for the electoral struggles which reflected in the results that we consistently recorded at the polls over the years.

Mr Buhari said it was the solid credentials that the CPC possessed that gave the party a prime place in the merger that led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress.

Other political parties in the merger include the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) along with some members from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Peoples Democratic Party.

The President said efforts had been made in appointing some members of CPC in his government.

According to him, such members include those in the Federal Executive Council (FEC) like the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Minister of Education, Minister of Water Resources, and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

I listened to the remarks of your Chairman which highlighted our modest achievements in diverse areas.

We shall remain resolute to continue to deliver on the promises we made to Nigerians, and to ensure that we attain greater milestones.

This is in terms of economic growth, infrastructural development, provision of security, and the war against corruption, among other responsibilities of government, he added.

While describing the president as the Patriarch of the CPC, the chairperson of Forum and former Chairperson of the party in Niger, Umar Shuaibu, said the party had maintained all its structures across the country.

He assured the president of their loyalty, especially in the forthcoming elections.

Mr Shuaibu commended the president for providing strong leadership over the years, particularly in remaining balanced, fair and above board in electoral issues.

Before you, the opposition was arrested and maltreated, but it is no longer so.

You did not deny them what they denied you when they were in power, he said.

Mr Shuaibu thanked the president for appointing members of the defunct CPC into the Federal Executive Council, as heads of agencies and members of Boards.

He said the CPC had always garnered millions of votes in elections across the country, and would support the APC Presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu.

(NAN)
The House of Representatives has asked the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, to provide it with all documents relating to subsidy claims from 2013 to date.

Ibrahim Aliyu, chairperson of the special ad hoc committee investigating the petroleum subsidy regime, said this when Stephen Okon, Director Home Finance in the ministry, appeared before it in Abuja on Tuesday.

The committee chairperson gave the minister 16 August to appear before it with all the relevant documents on subsidy claims.

He said the minister must give details of the total amount released from the Consolidated Revenue Account as subsidy payment from 2013 to date.

Mr Aliyu said the breakdown of beneficiary companies that received subsidy payments from the account must also be submitted to the panel.

According to the chairperson, the statement by the minister recently that the country would require N6.7 trillion to service subsidy was worrisome.

He said the minister needed to appear before the committee to explain certain actions, including the plan to borrow for subsidy.

He added that the issue was a very serious one that required the concern of everybody, adding that the committee was holding trust for the citizenry.

Mr Okon, however, explained that he appeared because the ministry did not want to pass information that was not properly processed before the committee.

He said he came to plead for an extension of time, adding that he was not mandated to make any presentation before the committee.

He said the ministry was asking for additional time to collate the information required by the committee.

(NAN)
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has declared the ongoing examinations at the Kaduna State University (KASU) a violation of the rules and regulations governing the conduct of examinations in academic institutions.

The union made this position known via a statement by the Kano Zone, insisting that whatever examination conducted under the current arrangement must be re-conducted to ensure the sanctity of the process.

The university had on 2 August resumed academic activities since 14 February when its academic staff joined a nationwide industrial action declared by the national leadership of ASUU over unaddressed demands placed before the government.

The Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, had earlier threatened to sack all the lecturers who refused to resume, saying the striking lecturers had no disagreement with the state government but the federal government.

Kaduna State University was established in 2004 by the Kaduna State Government with the promulgation of Kaduna State Law Number 3.

However, the universitys ASUU members joined the nationwide strike to protest the dwindling fortunes of university education in Nigeria, especially the challenges of poor funding by the government, and poor staff welfare, among others.

There are other state-owned universities in Nigeria where ASUU members have refused to join the nationwide strike. They include Kwara State University, Osun State University, Lagos State University, and Ambrose Alli University in Edo State, among many others.

Mr El-Rufai issued the threat after more than five months of what he described as solidarity action by the institutions workers, calling on them to resume immediately or have their employment terminated.

On 1 August, the national leadership of ASUU announced the extension of the more than a five-month-old strike by another one month, accusing the Nigerian government of insensitivity.

Meanwhile, the management of KASU has since 2 August announced the resumption of both academic and non-academic activities, and commenced the conduct of the examination, which had reportedly been shelved in February, following the lecturers action.

ASUU kicks

However, ASUU has kicked against the conduct of the examination, saying the action violates the laid down rules and regulations governing the conduct of examinations.

This was contained in a statement by the National Coordinator, ASUU-Kano Zone, Abdulkadir Muhammad, on Monday.

ASUU-Kano Zone comprises Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU), Bayero University Kano (BUK), Federal University, Dutse (FUD), Kano University of Science and Technology, Wudil (KUST), Kaduna State University (KASU), Sule Lamido University, Kafin Hausa (SLU) and Yusuf Maitama Sule University, Kano (YUMSU).

The statement, which was released at the end of a meeting to deliberate on the alleged intimidation of the universitys ASUU members by the state government, demanded the cancellation of the examinations and the conduct of fresh examinations.

The examinations currently going on in KASU are characterised by non-coverage of course outlines, incomplete lecture contact hours, non-participation of lecturers who taught the courses in the setting of the examination questions and supervisions, involvement of students in invigilation and non-moderation of question papers, which are clear violations of the laid down rules and regulations governing the conduct of examinations.

ASUU demanded that the examinations conducted so far be discarded in order to maintain and respect the sacred system of evaluation in the university system.

The statement added: The examinations must be re-conducted after following the due process and suspension of the ongoing strike action, otherwise, the union will be left with no option but to write a petition to the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) against the Management of KASU.

KASU tagged TETFund university

ASUU criticised Mr Elrufai over his position that the union had no issue with the state government, saying the university has been a beneficiary of ASUUs struggles.

The union said: KASU is one of the universities that could rightly be described as TETFund University since virtually all buildings in the University were constructed through TETFund interventions.

The union noted that its strike was aimed at seeking better funding for the university system and better welfare for ASUU members, saying KASU has continued to be a beneficiary of the efforts.

It said: KASU has benefited immensely from the TETFund interventions, revitalisation fund, staff development and provision of research grants, which are dividends of ASUU strikes.

At this juncture, we challenge the Visitor of KASU to show a single structure he constructed on KASU campuses during his two-term tenure as Governor of Kaduna State.

It is therefore illogical for the Government of Nasir El-Rufai to bluff that members of ASUU-KASU should either break away from the national strike or be sacked.

Backstory

The National Executive Council of ASUU had declared an initial four-week strike on 14 February to demand better funding for the university system and better remuneration for its members.

The union is also demanding the adoption of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) to replace the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS) for the payment of its members entitlements. ASUU alleged that IPPIS is marred by irregularities and does not recognise the peculiarities of universities, stripping them of their autonomy.

UTAS has been tested multiple times by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), but the agency has insisted that UTAS could not be deployed because it failed the integrity test despite scoring above 90 per cent in the tests.

The union is also demanding the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement it had with the government and its implementation.

The draft agreement reached between ASUU and the government through a committee led by Nimi Briggs has since been submitted.

It is, however, unclear if the government will adopt the document as the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, has consistently accused ASUU of forcing the representatives of government agencies out of the meetings to set its own salaries in the draft documents.

But ASUU President, Emmanuel Osodeke, a professor, has denied this and challenged the labour ministry to provide evidence that anyone was asked to leave the meeting.

He added that the content of the draft agreement with Mr Briggs-led committee was a proposal by the government and not that of ASUU.

Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has denied altering electoral documents in favour of the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan and former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio.

Names of the duo were missing from the list of successfully nominated candidates submitted to INEC by the 18 political parties in June.

Having lost out in their quest for the 2023 presidential ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Messrs Lawan and Akpabio have been making efforts to claim the senatorial tickets of the party for the Yobe North and Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial Districts, respectively.

While Bashir Machina and Udom Ekpoudom had emerged as candidates in the primaries supervised by INEC officials in their respective senatorial zones, the names of Messrs Lawan and Akpabio, who did not participate in the elections were instead forwarded to the commission as candidates.

The acceptance of names were justified by the Akwa-Ibom INEC REC, Mike Igini, but the ultimate decision currently rests with the court.

INEC has no powers to reject names sent by political parties. Primaries are the sole prerogatives of parties. INECs responsibility is merely to monitor the primaries and make sure they abide by their own regulations, the Electoral Act & the Constitution, Mr Igini said in a report published by PREMIUM TIMES.

However, a media report on Tuesday said INEC had backdated Certified True Copies of reports of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries to accommodate Messrs Lawan and Akpabio..

Although Mr Akpabio had won a rerun held in the zone, there is no report of a similar election held in Yobe where Mr Machina in Yobe emerged the winner.

We didnt backdate any documents  INEC

In a statement by its spokesperson, Festus Okoye, on Tuesday, INEC denied doctoring or certifying any document in favour of either of the two APC chieftains.

The commission said it had followed through its timetable and there was no point in its schedules where the names of the persons in question were published.

The forms of the two personalities in question were not published by the Commission. The decision of the Commission triggered legal actions which are still ongoing. It therefore defies logic and common sense to go around and submit doctored documents purportedly recognising the duo as candidates when the matter is clearly sub-judice, the statement said.

Mr Okoye said the copy of the form uploaded on the online news platform as evidence, was not properly fact-checked and had thereby encouraged misinformation.

As part of the ongoing case in Court, a law firm requested the Commission for a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Form EC9 submitted by the All Progressives Congress (APC) as its candidate for Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District which we are duty bound to oblige them under the law. The Form was certified on 15th July 2022. If minimum care had been exercised by the promoters of the story, they would have seen the two stamps of the Commission bearing different dates on the Form. It is this Form that is now misconstrued as INEC s endorsement.

For the record, the Commission has not recognised any of the two personalities as a Senatorial candidate, Mr Okoye further explained.

He called for responsible reporting of the development just as he described the story by the online platform as an unwarranted attack on the electoral body.
CapitaLand Investment Limiteds (CLI) wholly owned lodging business unit, The Ascott Limited (Ascott) has opened 20 properties with more than 4,500 units in the first half (H1) of 2022, a 56% year-on-year (y-o-y) increase in units.



In addition, Ascott has completed its acquisition of Oakwood Worldwide in July 2022, expanding its portfolio by about 15,000 units, to over 153,000 units across over 900 properties.



Ascott is also acquiring a freehold asset in Tokyo, Japan via the Ascott Serviced Residence Global Fund (ASRGF), Ascotts private equity fund with Qatar Investment Authority. The asset will be refurbished to introduce Ascotts first lyf-branded coliving property in the city. The acquisition follows Ascotts signing of over 7,500 units in H1 2022, a 32% increase compared to the same period last year.



The 140-unit coliving property to be named lyf Ginza Tokyo is ASRGFs fourth acquisition in 2022, deploying close to S$400 million across four countries in under five months. Slated to open in June 2023, lyf Ginza Tokyo is set to meet the lodging demand of conglomerates and start-ups located nearby and cater to leisure travellers visiting the capital city. With the acquisition of lyf Ginza Tokyo, ASRGF will hold 12 properties with over 2,300 units across 9 countries.



Kevin Goh, CLIs Chief Executive Officer for Lodging, said: Ascott has completed its acquisition of Oakwood, and achieved strong organic growth in H1 2022 with the addition of newly signed and opened properties across our brands. We have kicked-off the integration of Oakwood with Ascott, placing us in a stronger position to drive further growth, deliver higher returns to our property owners and offer better experiences to our guests.



As a vertically-integrated global lodging business, Ascott is able to leverage its full suite of real estate investment and management capabilities for expansion. In addition to increasing our recurring fee income via new management and franchise contracts, we see opportunities to grow our funds under management through our private funds such as ASRGF and our Student Accommodation Development Venture. We will continue to step up our growth as demand for lodging increases with the resumption of international travel, added Goh.



Ascott expansion spree in the MEAT region

Building on its global footprint, Ascott launched six properties in the Middle East, Africa and Turkey (MEAT) region this year, under its iconic Citadines and Somerset brands.



Recent openings include the stylish 16-storey Somerset Downtown Al Khobar, marking the group's seventh operational property in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Somerset City Centre Atyrau, Ascotts first operational property in Kazakhstan that now welcomes travellers to explore a world of exclusivity in one of the countrys major economic hubs; and the 162-unit Somerset Westview Nairobi (Kenya), which marked the brands foray into Eastern Africa, providing potential partners and guests the opportunity to view and experience Ascotts world-class services on the African continent. Ascott has also seen the anticipated re-opening of Somerset West Bay Doha in Qatar, which offers solo, business and leisure travellers their own private spaces;



Oman welcomed its first Citadines property with the launch of the vibrant Citadines Al Ghubrah Muscat in the countrys capital in March. Whereas in July, Citadines Abha takes Ascotts operational footprint to 1,062 keys in Saudi Arabia, and 2,391 across the region.



Vincent Miccolis, Ascotts Managing Director, Middle East, Africa, Turkey and India, commented on the announcement: Ascotts growth trajectory showcases our commitment to providing our guests with the highest quality in lodging options across the region, as they Travel, Live and Discover with Ascott. As we continue to grow our brand presence both regionally and globally, we are excited to offer our guests a diverse and broader range of properties to cater to all their hospitality needs, whether for business or leisure travel.



Boost to Ascotts global presence and recurring fee income in H1 2022

Aside from lyf Ginza Tokyo, 88% of the new units Ascott signed in H1 2022 were on management or franchise contracts, while 12% of the units were investments through Ascotts private funds or its hospitality trust Ascott Residence Trust.



Among the new units added in H1 2022 are four rental housing properties under Ascotts Adoor brand in China. This includes the 1,412-unit Adoor Apartment Shanghai (New Development), Ascotts largest property in China, as it seeks to tap on the increasing demand from young and mobile professionals looking to rent fully-furnished homes on a longer-term basis in China.

Ascott has also signed three Ascott-branded properties and five Somerset-branded properties in China. In addition, Ascott has secured 10 Citadines- and Citadines Connect-branded properties in Singapore, China, Malaysia, South Korea, Vietnam, Netherlands, Ethiopia, and Turkey; as well as four Questbranded properties in Australia. The properties are slated to open between 2022 and 2026.



Expansion of Ascott Star Rewards to further strengthen customer engagement

Since its launch in 2019, Ascotts loyalty programme, Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), continues to see high demand, with its membership growing 40% y-o-y and member bookings more than tripled in H1 2022 compared to H1 2021. ASR members currently contribute about 90% of Ascotts direct bookings online, and more than 50% of ASR members are repeat guests.



In March 2022, Ascott upgraded ASR to offer more rewards for members bookings made via its direct channels as well as expanded the programme to include more exclusive benefits. ASR members can enjoy priority check-ins, birthday discount e-vouchers and look forward to brand specific arrival experiences and welcome amenities or signature gifts that are customised across Ascotts suite of award-winning brands. As the Oakwood properties join the ASR network, members can access more quality lodging options to earn points.- TradeArabia News Service
Aloysius Igwe, a House of Representatives aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State, has sued the PDP and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over alleged substitution of his name as the elected candidate of his constituency.

Mr Igwe said he contested and won the party primary for Oru East-Orsu-Orlu Federal Constituency in the state, but a fresh primary was held where Kinglsey Onyegbula, another aspirant, emerged as the winner.

How it began

The PDP held its House of Representatives primary in the constituency between 25th and 26th of May, where five aspirants contested for the ticket.

In the exercise, monitored by INEC, Mr Igwe polled a total of 39 votes to defeat his closest rival, Kingsley Onyegbula, who garnered 36 votes, according to the result of the exercise obtained by PREMIUM TIMES.

The primary election was duly monitored by INEC from the state office and INEC headquarters Abuja. The party substantially complied with the relevant laws and guidelines guiding the conduct of primaries, V.O. Nwokeabia said in a letter to INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Francis Ezeonu.

Mr Nwokeabia, who is the head, Election and Party Monitoring Department of INEC in Imo State, attached the results of the party primaries in the letter, dated 27 May.

From the accreditation of delegates to the conduct of the election, there was transparency and openness and there was no protest or objection of any kind after the declaration of the results at the venue, Mr Nwokeabia, a lawyer, said in the letter.

New twist

Despite separately affirming Mr Igwe as the winner of the primary, the PDP and INEC failed to recognise him as a candidate.

Earlier, on 3 June, there was speculation about a plot by a top PDP leader to assist one of the contestants who lost in the exercise, Mr Onyegbula, to organise a fresh primary to overturn the outcome of the previous exercise.

Disturbed by the speculation, Mr Igwe wrote to the REC, Mr Ezeonu, informing him that if there was such a move, he (Mr Igwe) would not take part in the kangaroo exercise.

He did not receive any response.

On 5 June, just as it was speculated, another PDP primary for the same Oru East-Orsu-Orlu Federal Constituency was held. Mr Igwe was not informed, PREMIUM TIMES learnt.

Mr Onyegbula was said to have been declared winner of the fresh primary.

Perspective from another aspirant

Augustine Okeke, one of the aspirants who contested in the first primary, told PREMIUM TIMES that he congratulated Mr Igwe for winning the exercise, but later heard that the primary was cancelled some days after.

I congratulated the winner in that exercise and acknowledged that, according to what I observed, the election was a free process, he said, adding that he did not know the reason for the cancellation.

Mr Okeke said he withdrew from the rescheduled primary for personal reasons.

The man who won the first primary, Mr Igwe, is shocked by the turn of events.

I was believing that you cannot give INEC information to come witness or monitor an election on Sunday, after it was concluded successfully and a winner declared, he told PREMIUM TIMES.

Petition to the PDP

Although Mr Onyegbula did not protest the outcome of the 26 May exercise that produced Mr Igwe as the partys candidate, he later filed a petition at the PDPs Imo State National Assembly Electoral Appeal Panel.

A report of the petition, seen by PREMIUM TIMES, showed that Mr Onyegbula alleged, among others, that some of the voters in the exercise were statutory delegates, contrary to the partys guidelines and 2022 Electoral Act.

The three-man electoral appeal panel, however, noted that the petitioner, Mr Onyegbula, did not attach any evidence to the petition and that there was no proof that a different delegate list was used in the exercise.

The appeal panel did not invite Mr Igwe during its sittings which were held at the partys secretariat in the state.

Igwe goes to court

Mr Igwes name was eventually not submitted by the PDP to INEC, despite winning the previous primary.

INEC spokesperson, Festus Okoye, did not respond to calls and messages seeking comments from him on the matter.

After the second primary, Mr Igwe, through his lawyers, wrote to INEC headquarters, Abuja, and the PDP national leadership, alerting them of an attempt to deny him the ticket of the party.

The PDP and INEC did not respond to his letter.

Mr Igwe sued the electoral commission and the PDP at the Federal High Court, Owerri, after Mr Onyegbulas name was published as the partys candidate for the constituency.

Mr Igwe is asking the court to declare as illegal the conduct of the second primary by the PDP.

He is also seeking that his election as the partys candidate be declared valid and subsisting, and that INEC should be restrained from recognising Mr Onyegbula or any other person as partys candidate for the constituency.

When the matter came up on 20 June, the court granted Mr Igwes application that Mr Onyegbula should be joined in the suit as a co-defendant and adjourned the matter to 17 August.

Mr Onyegbula did not respond to calls and a text message seeking comment from him.

PDPs reaction

The chairman of the PDP in Imo State, Charles Ugwu, told PREMIUM TIMES that primaries of the party had held more than once in some areas in the state due to some challenges, and that the issue was that Mr Igwe did not participate in the rerun which held in his own constituency.

Mr Ugwu declined to comment on Mr Igwes claim that he won the previous exercise and the circumstances surrounding the cancellation of his election.

Asked why Mr Igwe was not notified about the rescheduled exercise, the party chairman said, I dont know about that. Everybody was informed. He did not talk to me about that. (If he thinks so) then, he has to make his case.

When contacted, the National Secretary of the PDP, Samuel Anyanwu, whose office is responsible for forwarding candidates name to INEC, admitted that Mr Igwe won in the first primary.

But he said the exercise was later cancelled after the partys appeal panel considered a petition filed by one of the aspirants.

Aside from the constituency, the partys primary in Ahiazu/Mbaise/Ezinihitte Constituency was also cancelled for similar reasons, he said.

On Mr Igwes claim that he was not informed of the cancellation and rescheduling of the exercise, Mr Anyanwu said, the party in Imo State was duly informed and the primary was conducted before everybody. The candidates were duly informed.

The PDP secretary said the second exercise was also monitored by INEC.

He dismissed the claims that the commission was given a short notice for the exercise, arguing that the commission would have rejected the candidates name forwarded to them if there were infractions in the second exercise.

He declined comments on whether Mr Igwe was informed that there was a petition against his election.

He also refused to respond to allegations that Mr Igwe was not invited by the partys appeal panel to defend his election.

He said he was not the right person to provide the answers.
There is an African adage that says if the gods cannot improve your fortune, they shouldnt worsen your situation. If the government cannot make the Contribution Pension Scheme much bigger, far better and more beneficial, then it should at least not seek to ruin it. It should leave it as it is. The surreptitious attempts to exempt groups, when there are other ways of incentivising them to remain the scheme, is a looming danger for the pension industry and it must be discouraged by Nigerians.

In 2004, Nigeria embarked on one of the most successful reforms in its history with the enactment of the Pension Reform Act (PRA 2004). Before then, employers used to have riotous schemes that did not inspire confidence in their employees. In the private sector, there were schemes that were less than beneficial and were often implemented in ways that gave too much room for discretion and short-changed would-be beneficiaries. The public service operated the Defined Benefit Scheme (BDS) under which retirees were entitled to life pension based on years of service and hierarchy. However, economic challenges and fiscal crises caused arrears of pension payments to government retirees to pile up. Pensions were budgeted for annually but were only paid if there was funding and this was usually the least on the priority list of government. Pensioners were dying in penury and frustration, while waiting for their entitlements. This was the situation when the President Olusegun Obasanjo administration introduced the pension reform in 2004.

With the reform came the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which has been regarded by most Nigerians as an outstanding success story in Nigeria. Under CPS, it is mandatory for employers and employers in public service and private sector with a certain number of employees to make a minimum contribution towards the retirement benefits of these employees. There is also the contribution by the employees themselves, which is akin to compulsory savings towards retirement. The funds are invested by the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and kept in custody by Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs). As a result, value is added to the savings over the years through returns on investment. These fundamental changes have created a new economy. From a negative position of a huge unfunded pension liability, pension assets in Nigeria had grown to N13.88 trillion as at the end of March. The total number of pension contributors is close to 10 million and still growing.

Unfortunately, it is not everybody that is excited by the success story, if we have to judge by developments in recent years. For instance, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has been making efforts to exit CPS. At first, the NPF compared itself to the military, which was granted an exemption by law. Although this comparison is unnecessary since the armed forces are generally treated as separate from civil forces, the legal aspect is that excising the police is against the Pension Reform Act (as amended). The police are part and parcel of the CPS as provided for by the law. When police agitation reached its height under former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013, the police were allowed to set up their own PFA as a compromise, supposedly to take care of their peculiarities.

Gradually, the success of CPS will be undermined and the scheme decimated. When senior government officials are being exempted, it is only logical that the others below them will begin to develop ideas and start agitating to be exempted as well. We may end up returning to the old scheme of defined pensions, where government carries all the burden.

Still, the police are not content. They want to exit the scheme completely and run a totally different pension scheme for whatever reason, without an amendment to the law or presidential approval. According to unrefuted reports, the determination of the police to exit has gone to the illegal extent that the Deputy Inspectors Generals of Police (DIGs) and Assistant Inspectors General of Police (AIG) have been enrolled on the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) to collect full salaries for life under a defined scheme that was not intended for them. This they did without any permission of anyone, not the president, not the regulatory authority, and certainly not in conformity with the Pensions Reform Act. To make matters worse, some are still collecting pension from the police PFA. That is a classic case of double payment. They are enjoying pension both from contributory scheme and the defined benefit, which is unlawful and unconstitutional.

Some of the statistics should be of concern to us. Of the N577 billion budgeted for pensions in 2022 by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN), military pensions and gratuities account for N237 billion. That is close to half of the entire pensions budget. Police pensions and gratuities for certain exempted groups amount to N8 billion of the FGN budget for pensions for the year under discussion. However, if the police authorities succeed in pulling the NPF out of the contributory pension scheme altogether, that alone would have consumed the entire FGN budget for pensions in 2022. The military is just about 25% of the size of the police, so FGN is going to be saddled with a pensions and gratuities budget that will pass N1 trillion. With its current fiscal challenges, FGN will have no other option than to owe pensions. Meanwhile, the contribution of police funds to the pensions sector will shrink and this will, no doubt, affect the growth and prospects of the pension industry in particular and the Nigerian economy in general.

There will always be consequences of exiting the police personnel from the contributory pension scheme. If it were to happen, then more government agencies and officials would borrow a leaf from the police and continue to seek exemption from the contributory pension scheme. Recently, the Office of the Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries secured presidential approval to exit the scheme and be placed on full salaries for life via IPPIS. There are reports that the accountants-general and auditors-general are also agitating to join the exempted groups. Gradually, the success of CPS will be undermined and the scheme decimated. When senior government officials are being exempted, it is only logical that the others below them will begin to develop ideas and start agitating to be exempted as well. We may end up returning to the old scheme of defined pensions, where government carries all the burden. Not only are we going to end up ruining the contributory scheme that is working well for us, we will return to the era of pensioners queuing up for arrears and suffering untold hardship in jostling to be paid anything at all.

 it is relevant to mention that the core argument of those seeking exemption is that they will secure guaranteed full monthly salaries in retirement under the defined scheme, than what they may take from the PFAs under the contributory scheme. However, this is an erroneous argument because there are other ways of getting more benefits under the Pension Reform Act than taking actions that can ruin the contributory scheme.

In fairness, maybe there are reasonable grounds for senior government officials to want to be exempted from the contributory pension scheme. They probably had looked at the fact of having to contribute 8% of their salaries as a disadvantage. However, they can treat that as savings (because that is what it is) especially since the employer is obligated to contribute a minimum of 10%. Also, since the funds in the Retirement Savings Account (RSA) will be invested on their behalf by the PFAs, it will yield significant returns by the time of disengagement from service. This arrangement is definitely a win for the contributor at all levels. The fact that the CPS is a fully funded scheme with assets under the management of the PFAs also means they are available upon retirement. This is unlike the defined scheme where the government may not have the funds readily available to pay the beneficiaries when they retire. More so, pensioners will be getting a bulk sum upon retirement and they can do something substantial with it to ease into their new lives. If they also invest it well, they will be reaping the benefits for life.

Perhaps, it is relevant to mention that the core argument of those seeking exemption is that they will secure guaranteed full monthly salaries in retirement under the defined scheme, than what they may take from the PFAs under the contributory scheme. However, this is an erroneous argument because there are other ways of getting more benefits under the Pension Reform Act than taking actions that can ruin the contributory scheme. For instance, what the Pension Act prescribes is merely a minimum contribution rate, which can be enhanced by the employer. Thus, rather than shoulder a burden of unsustainable pension liability, government can decide to do one or two things that are clearly permissible under the Pension Reform Act. Government can increase the rate of its monthly contribution above the current minimum 10%. Government can also have a gratuity package that will be a lump sum paid to the retirees on exit from service, in addition to the contributions remitted to their employees RSAs. Indeed, when government decides to do both or any of these two benefits improvements under the CPS, the pension system would still be less costly and less volatile for government than returning to the defined benefit scheme through the back door.

There is an African adage that says if the gods cannot improve your fortune, they shouldnt worsen your situation. If the government cannot make the Contribution Pension Scheme much bigger, far better and more beneficial, then it should at least not seek to ruin it. It should leave it as it is. The surreptitious attempts to exempt groups, when there are other ways of incentivising them to remain the scheme, is a looming danger for the pension industry and it must be discouraged by Nigerians. It is sad to note that rather than maintaining and sustaining what we have, we are now engaging in actions that would decimate it and pave the way for the unravelling of a reform that is clearly one of the most important in our history. We need to have a rethink.

Grace Abayomi, an economist, wrote from Akure, Ondo State.
2023 will be a four-way race and could go into a run-off for the first time since 1999. You do not need an American agency to tell you which way the wind is blowing. I believe whoever gains a first ballot victory under the first-past-the-post system, is not going to get more than 37% of the total votes cast. Those who follow politics closely, will recall that the late Governor Ajimobi was elected for the first time with just 32.6% of the votes, in a fiercely contested four-horse race.

Declining opportunities, rising insecurity and a bleak economic outlook have created an environment polluted by anger. This anger has bred a growing rank of political fundamentalists and fanatics. There is palpable anger on Nigeria social media platforms whenever politics is at issue and what is at issue these days, if not the 2023 elections? In the social media ecosystem, frustration with the political class has given rise to a dangerous mix of radical, utopian politics, where intimidation and enmity are the rules of engagement. Politics in a democracy assumes tolerance, representation and openness. However followers of Peter Obi (the Obidients) and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (BATists) on social media have become implacable political fundamentalists or fanatics. The rabid antagonism and intimidation calls into question their understanding of rationality, expression of public passions and representation. If we must make progress politically, we must be rational, tolerant and understanding of other peoples choices and respect differences of opinion. Yes, 2023 is an important election. Indeed, 2020-2030 is a make or mar decade for Nigeria.

Let me put this upfront: I will be dissecting the 2023 elections, not as a partisan player but as an analyst. None of what I write here represents the opinion of my principal, the governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN) or the position of the Ondo State government.

That out of the way, I make bold to declare that the 2023 elections will be a departure from the norm established since 1999, around an establishment duopoly. Students of politics may have observed that established duopolies have been challenged and dismantled in the past decade in Mexico, France, and five months ago in Chile, among other places. Even in South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC) is under threat. In Nigeria, to paraphrase the Italian philosopher Antonio Gramsci, the old order is refusing to yield ground, making it difficult for a new one to be born.

2023 will be a four-way race and could go into a run-off for the first time since 1999. You do not need an American agency to tell you which way the wind is blowing. I believe whoever gains a first ballot victory under the first-past-the-post system, is not going to get more than 37% of the total votes cast. Those who follow politics closely, will recall that the late Governor Ajimobi was elected for the first time with just 32.6% of the votes, in a fiercely contested four-horse race.

The winner in 2023 might struggle to win a convincing control of the National Assembly. Therein lies the issue of legitimacy, which is key. In terms of fiscal health, whoever wins in 2023 will inherit a poisoned chalice. He will face the daunting reality of a technically insolvent economy heading towards bankruptcy. It is pertinent to note that for the first time since 1960, Nigerias bonds are rated as junk status! This did not happen even during the civil war. In 1962, faced with an existential economic crises caused by falling commodities prices, the then Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa put together Austerity Measures, with the support of all parties, as well as the unions and civil society. This national democratic agreement remains the high point of democracy in Nigeria. Winning a convincing majority in the National Assembly is important for the task ahead. How will a president elected with no more than 37% of the vote rally the republic in order to carry out very painful and indeed brutal reforms? That is why legitimacy matters.

The Obi and other factors could deny Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu the 25% vote spread needed for a first ballot victory in many of the states of the South-south, South-east and in Benue State. Jagabans anticipated sweep of the South-west has no historical antecedent and it has been punctured in both Ekiti and Osun. Historically, Omo wa ni e je o see is unreal. Awolowo lost seventeen seats in the Western Region in 1959 and the Awo sweep in 1979 was a one-off phenomenon.

A salient point in the coming elections is the rise of political awareness by first time registrants. This is not a flash-in-the-pan social media phenomenon, it will be translated into votes. Kwankwanso will be a focus of mounting angst and disaffection in Kano, Kaduna, Jigawa and parts of Niger State. The sufficiently angered Obidients, who are disaffected and frustrated by the insouciant establishment could get Peter Obi up to six million votes nationwide. Turnout will be the highest since 1999.

The Obi and other factors could deny Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu the 25% vote spread needed for a first ballot victory in many of the states of the South-south, South-east and in Benue State. Jagabans anticipated sweep of the South-west has no historical antecedent and it has been punctured in both Ekiti and Osun. Historically, Omo wa ni e je o see is unreal. Awolowo lost seventeen seats in the Western Region in 1959 and the Awo sweep in 1979 was a one-off phenomenon.

Given the current situation, Jagaban will average 55-60% aggregate in the South-west.

Early in day, I predict an Atiku vs Jagaban second ballot, unless Tinubu moves fast and makes inroads with the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) and other Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and reassures the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).

For Tinubu to become president, the All Progressives Congress (APC) must work hard to prevent a runoff. If there is a runoff, voters can coalesce around Atiku and thereby enable make him to make 60% of the votes. A runoff will precipitate opinions against the same faith ticket. Jagaban must win a first ballot victory with 37% of the votes. Can he get that spread?

Whoever wins will have to find a way of making us take our poison. I believe President Buhari knows what to do but he is in a difficult situation. It would have been better if he had administered the poison during his honeymoon period. If he removes subsidy now, the possibility of civil unrest is very high and it will cost APC the election. I suggest he removes it before he leaves and lets the incoming government pick the pieces. At any rate, we have to face the reality of insolvency and take our poison.

The issue for Jagaban is the spread. For example, can he make 25% in Taraba and Plateau States? Will there be a Christian revolt against the same faith ticket in Southern Kaduna? Given the disaffection in the country and increase in the number of registered voters, how will the Christian pockets in every Northern state and in the Middle Belt vote? What will the vote look like in Plateau State? It is very likely we could be back to the 1979 phenomenon of a 12  spread.

Demographic changes, the EndSARS awakening and a changed electoral format with the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) has turned the framework upside down. It is a whole new ball game. At issue in Nigeria in the last decade and well into the future, are three salient issues  insecurity, the economy and jobs. Regardless of who wins, state police will become a reality, directly or by proxy. We cannot be secure with a central police command of less than 250,000 policemen to 200 million people. It is absurd.

On the economic front, we cannot develop by producing less than two million barrels of oil per day. Subsidy on petroleum cannot and must not continue. The obscene arbitrage on forex is unsustainable, given our deathbed production base. It has to go! Thankfully energy subsidy is near gone, although inefficiency and obsolete equipment is hampering the production, transmission and distribution of power. Whoever wins will have to find a way of making us take our poison. I believe President Buhari knows what to do but he is in a difficult situation. It would have been better if he had administered the poison during his honeymoon period. If he removes subsidy now, the possibility of civil unrest is very high and it will cost APC the election. I suggest he removes it before he leaves and lets the incoming government pick the pieces. At any rate, we have to face the reality of insolvency and take our poison. On jobs, there are many creative ways to put our young people to work. 2023 is a make or break presidential election. It can no longer be business as usual, as the EndSARS protests were a warning of what can happen. We need innovative approaches to create jobs and turn the youth bulge into a blessing.

In conclusion, I do not expect Peter Obi to win. If the Obidients eventually poll five to six million votes, that will send a strong signal to us that a new Nigeria of engaged and active citizenry is born.

Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, an advocate, strategist and political analyst, is Commissioner for Information in Ondo State. Twitter: @BamideleUpfront; Facebook: facebook.com/Bamidele. BAO
the ethnographic gaze cannot exist within the realm of the exotic when both subject and photographer exist at once, as witnessed in the photographs in this exceptional exhibition of the photographs of Nina Fischer-Stephan. The respectful gaze offered by FischerStephan is refreshingly different from the more common and dominant gaze of pioneering colonial photography by the likes of Nortcote Thomas, which reinforced stereotypes of Nigerians, while dehumanising the individual and reducing him/her to a specimen to be collected and ordered by type.

There is a noteworthy and thought provoking photography exhibition at Tinubu Square, on Broad Street, Lagos Island, Lagos. The Respectful Gaze, the large scale open-air exhibition made up of seventy four printed 22 metres tarpaulin fabric mounted photographs installed around the Square presents the work of Nina FischerStephan. This exhibition is important, as through its gaze it has successfully broken frame, revealing a strong social context. German born Nina Fischer-Stephan came to Africa in 1959 and spent more than ten years living in Ibadan with her son and her husband, Klaus Stephan, who was a broadcast journalist and a special correspondent in Nigeria. During this period, Nina FischerStephan travelled extensively with her husband throughout the country and in the process, over time, amassed a rich documentation of early post-independence Nigeria.

The choice of a public space accessible to the average Nigerian citizen in the 2000 square metre, iron-fenced Tinubu Square is an interesting, much applauded and appreciated decision. The square has been an important site of history and contains a life-size statue of Madam Tinubu after whom the square is named. Madam Efunroye Tinubu was a powerful Yoruba anti-colonial activist, merchant and slave trader that is believed to have donated the land to the British colonial authorities. Tinubu Square was first called Ita Tinubu before its name became Independence Square after Nigerias Independence in 1960, almost exactly coinciding with the year that Nina FischerStephan first came to Nigeria. Independence Square, located in the heart of Lagos, later became Tinubu Square. The court of Assizes was the first structure that was built on this land. This court building was subsequently demolished for the construction of a water fountain to commemorate Nigerias independence.

The The Respectful Gaze exhibition reminds us that the history of colonialism, anthropology and photography are indeed intertwined. We are reminded by contrast that the physical type portrait epitomises the colonial anthropological gaze amongst the various genres of anthropological photography associated with Africa. Colonial authorities in Africa have historically used photography to examine ways by which race, gender and sexuality have been looked at in visual culture. The politics of looking in relationship to indigenous identities and culture has always been centred on the type of gaze through which the other is captured. The photograph as an archive and cultural artefact has critically been a site of the intersection of gazes that relate to the history, memory and structure of the society it references. The intersection creates a multidimensional yet complex object that allows viewers to negotiate multiple identities, histories and journeys, not just for the individuals in the photo but also for the viewers themselves. The politics of the significance of the gaze looking at or spectating at the other is at the core of what degree or extent difference defines the history of representation and distance within the colonial construct. When non-Westerners are photographed, the accentuation of the look becomes important.

The ethnographic gaze was the commonly deployed gaze of Westerners in approaching historical photographic images, especially photos taken by non-Westerners. The sort of exotic photographs famously taken by the British colonial government anthropologist, Northcote Thomas, in Southern Nigeria became the official gaze and albums of these physical type of photos were distributed to the colonial secretariat in Lagos. These numbered photos officially stripped their subjects of their names and individuality to representation of particular types.

In the The Respectful Gaze exhibition, we can see how Nina FischerStephans documented images that portray the beauty of the Nigerian personality. She took pains in trying to capture a clear representation of dignity, as opposed to capturing images that look like they are best comfortable in a museum. Her rare images of Northern Nigerian lifestyle and architecture compel one to rethink assumed and distorted stereotypes reinforced by colonial representation

However, the ethnographic gaze cannot exist within the realm of the exotic when both subject and photographer exist at once, as witnessed in the photographs in this exceptional exhibition of the photographs of Nina Fischer-Stephan. The respectful gaze offered by FischerStephan is refreshingly different from the more common and dominant gaze of pioneering colonial photography by the likes of Nortcote Thomas, which reinforced stereotypes of Nigerians, while dehumanising the individual and reducing him/her to a specimen to be collected and ordered by type. Thomass type of colonial photography conveys and confirms the structural violence of colonialism, with photographs that raise the issues of the actual nature of Western colonialisation.

Nina FischerStephans photographic archive highlights the importance of experiencing a photographic legacy that humanises and individualises the history and memory of a people, which cannot be overemphasised. In her images, it is clear and obvious that the gaze sensitivity taken was not one that aimed at primarily creating stereotypes and myths where the truth of daily existence would be distorted or even lost. It is important to note that this exhibition is also special and unique in the sense that no attempt has ever been made by Westerners on African soil to employ a public and easily accessible space to offer a counter-visual post-independence view to the gaze of the horrific histories of colonialism.

In the The Respectful Gaze exhibition, we can see how Nina FischerStephan documented images that portray the beauty of the Nigerian personality. She took pains in trying to capture a clear representation of dignity, as opposed to capturing images that look like they are best comfortable in a museum. Her rare images of Northern Nigerian lifestyle and architecture compel one to rethink assumed and distorted stereotypes reinforced by colonial representation about people who obviously have their own wholesome civilisation and contributions to social knowledge.

The exhibition runs from 1st of July 1 to 14th of August. As part of the Lagos Photo Festival, The Respectful Gaze would be presented in October at Falomo roundabout. For those who do not have the opportunity to see the exhibition physically at Tinubu Square, it can also be viewed online.

The social context of the impact of this exhibition is quite noticeable and significant. An entire generation of young Nigerians, unfortunately, who do not have a sense of the written or visual history of the country due to a period in the recent Nigerian experience, whereby History as a subject was removed from the national educational curriculum, are now experiencing images that provoke deep provocative questions within them about the Nigeria they thought they knew. This is very important for young Nigerian children because much of Nigerian and indeed African history have been maligned, distorted, buried and subjugated to an extent that Africas collective history might have to be rewritten. Any visitor to Tinubu square would be amazed at how much disruption the exhibition has created (across diverse age groups) in terms of spontaneous street level dialogue, debate and conversation. Ironically, within Tinubu Square is a bronze sculpture by the artist Kenny Adamson that depicts the importance of being educated.

Hopefully, Nina FischerStephans images would be viewed in a way that can influence and contribute progressively and positively by disrupting the current conversation on national cohesion and the concept of Nigerian citizenship. The photographs of this exhibition exude a rarely seen perfect visual sense of optimism and hope of the Nigerian people. The images depict a reassured and comfortable sense of self. As cultural memory is a function of political memory, the multivocality of the photographic archives of Nina FischerStephan underlines the relationship between archived based knowledge and social memory that suggest alternative national narratives. Without doubt, Nina FischerStephans photo archive of Nigeria is a spatial site that uncovers and recovers, as well as expresses and reveals individual and social pasts and futures. This exhibition acknowledges the complex and variegated paths to which society forms a sense of what the past used to be like and is now like.

Nina FischerStephan would have been one hundred years old this year, 2022. Gisela Kayser and Akinbode Akinbiyi curated the exhibition, with the assistance of Mireya Palmeira.

The exhibition runs from 1st of July 1 to 14th of August. As part of the Lagos Photo Festival, The Respectful Gaze would be presented in October at Falomo roundabout. For those who do not have the opportunity to see the exhibition physically at Tinubu Square, it can also be viewed online.

Mudi Yahaya, a documentary photographer and film-maker, is also an art historian.
Natural gas has been a hot commodity this year. Over the past seven months, the price of the U.S. front-month natural gas future contract (Henry Hub; Octa FX ticker: XNG) traded on the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) has increased by more than 120%. Last Friday alone, Henry Hub futures jumped 36.7 cents or 4.6% to settle at $8.299 per million British thermal units (MMBtu), putting the contract on track for its highest close since June 13.

Given that U.S. natural gas contract has historically traded in the range of $2.00  $4.00 per MMBtu, the new price tag of $8.00+ appears shocking. However, it pales in comparison with the price pressures seen in Europe and Asia. Indeed, the benchmark European contract (Title Transfer Facility or TTF) has averaged $49.7 per MMBtu over the past month, while the Asian liquified natural gas (LNG) contract (Japan-Korea-Market or JKM) has averaged $38.6 per MMBtu. In fact, over the past 12 months, the price of European natural gas has more than tripled,

while Asian prices have more than doubled.

What has been the driving force behind such a dramatic increase in the price of natural gas? What exactly makes this commodity so valuable today? How high can the price go? In this article, OctaFX, a major forex broker, will provide the answers.

Strong Demand

Unlike the market for crude oil, which is mostly international, the natural gas market is still very fragmented. It is not an integrated global market, but instead it represents a collection of regional markets that are only loosely connected with each other. Therefore, each market has its own local reasons for the price hike, but one can still discern an important common theme  a rising demand. For example, natural gas demand in China has been rising consistently for several years now. In 2021, it increased by 12.8% year-over-year (y-o-y) and is set to rise

by another 7% y-o-y in 2022, according to the S&P Global. 1 Indeed, China has already surpassed Japan as the worlds largest LNG importer. Elsewhere in Asia, the sweltering heat spurred cooling demand, but the scarcity of coal meant that countries such as India, Bangladesh and Pakistan had to rely on LNG imports to help power plants boost electricity generation. Price pressures did little to lower the demand. Japans Nippon Steel Corp, the worlds second-largest steelmaker, has recently purchased an LNG cargo for delivery in September at a price of $41 per, the highest price ever paid in Japan. 2

The inland demand for natural gas in the European Union (EU) has increased by 4.3% y-o-y in 2021. 3 Meanwhile, natural gas production in the EU has remained on a descending trend, falling by 7.6% in 2021. 4 The combination of rising demand and falling supply has pushed the EU natural gas import dependency to 83%. 5

Unsurprisingly, the prices went through the roof and still remain elevated today as the uncertainty over the stability of Russian flows has increased in light of the recent events in Ukraine.

The United States also witnessed a noticeable pickup in natural gas usage. In six months to the end of June, total consumption in the U.S. was up 4.1% y-o-y, with the largest increase recorded in the Electric Power sector. 6 Indeed, continued retirement of coal-fired and nuclear generating capacities has put pressure on natural gas power plants to sustain adequate levels of electricity generation throughout the year. 7 Therefore, the recent heat wave with above-normal temperatures observed in virtually all the contiguous United States meant that power generators had to burn lots of natural gas just to keep air conditioners humming.

In addition, the U.S. has substantially enlarged its pipeline and LNG export capacity over the past years and is now on track to become the worlds largest LNG exporter this year. Total natural gas exports averaged 19.62 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) during the first six months of 2022, almost an 8.0% increase compared with the 2021 annual average. 8 Most LNG tankers are heading towards Europe as the continent tries to cut its heavy dependence on Russian imports.

How high can the price go?

Technically, the U.S. natural gas is in a clear bullish trend. The previous swing high ($9.664) reached on June 8 may act as a temporary resistance, but as long as the price remains above $7.500 per MMBtu, the short-term traders should continue buying the dips.

Fundamentally, U.S. Henry Hub futures lag far behind global prices because the U.S. is the worlds top producer and is self-sufficient in natural gas. However, as prices hit their highest in more than a decade, it is clear that the U.S. economys long era of cheap natural gas has ended. Right now, the price in Europe is six- times higher than in the U.S. This disparity creates an incentive to build more LNG export facilities, which should stimulate the demand for natural gas inside the U.S. as a feedstock for liquefaction. In addition, Europe is likely to remain a

persistent source of demand for U.S. LNG due to the uncertainty over the stability of imports from Russia. In the long-term, as the world tries to cut CO2 emissions by limiting the usage of coal and oil, natural gas stands out to gain the most because of its less polluting effects compared to other fossil fuels.

At the same time, questions remain on whether the world can afford to supply enough natural gas to meet growing demand in the short-term. For example, U.S. dry gas production has plateaued (it has remained essentially flat for the past three months), and Russian production is at risk of falling due to sanctions, while

production in the Middlese East is limited by capacity constrains.

Overall, the price of natural gas has already increased quite noticeably over the pasty 12 months. Traders are advised to exercise extreme caution at this junction, as a lot of bullish developments have been already priced in. Still, if the world can avoid a global recession and if production remains sluggish, traders shoul remain bullish on the commodity. The bulls are seriously targeting $9.270, $9.750 and $10.000. Alternatively, a global recession  especially, if it is coupled with a warm winter  will trim global demand and will push the Henry Hub price below the $6.000 handle.
The governorship ambition of Adebayo Adelabu of Accord party on Monday received a major boost as Adegboyega Adegoke, a Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Fatai Adesina of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) joined forces with him.

The media aide of Mr Adelabu, Femi Awogboro, said in a statement in Ibadan, that the two politicians decided to join Accord Party to actualise the governorship ambition of Mr Adelabu.

Mr Adelabu, popularly called Penkelemesi, is a former deputy governor of the CBN.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Adegoke was an APC Senatorial Aspirant for Oyo South, while Mr Adeshina, a former member of the State Assembly.

Mr Awogboro said: Yes, its homecoming for both of them. Adegoke, the Aare-Onibon Balogun of Ibadanland and Chairman of Solution FM, contested the primaries for Oyo South Senatorial District in APC.

Adesina was elected as an Assembly member on the platform of Accord Party in 2015.

READ ALSO:

Chief Adelabu campaign team is strategically moving. The support we are receiving, especially in the last few weeks, is an indication that Accord is the credible alternative party to move the state forward from 2023.

He said the party had attracted people who have passion for economic and infrastructure development of the state.

Mr Awogboro said the party would welcome more bigwigs from APC and PDP in the coming months to ensure that good governance was achieved in the state.

Commenting, Mr Adegoke, a Chartered Accountant, said he joined Mr Adelabus team with all his political supporters and associates across the state.

He described Mr Adelabu as an asset, saying that the Accord flagbearer would not embezzle public funds or accumulate wealth for himself.

Adelabu, who has all his investments in the state, will perform excellently better than any of the governorship candidates in other political parties.

Its common sense for me to be in support of his ambition, without looking back. Adelabu is someone who has passion for infrastructure development and industrialisation of Oyo State, he said.

Mr Adegoke said that Mr Adelabu believes in empowerment skills for women, youths and entrepreneurs.

Mr Adeshina said that he had only reunited with Accord and Adelabu for the progress of the state.

(NAN)
Rise in the adoption of advanced technologies in digital education, increase in penetration of smartphones and the internet and surge in use of AI and machine learning in digital education drive the growth of the global digital education market.

PORTLAND, Ore., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Digital Education Market by Learning Type (Self-paced Online Education, Instructor-led Online Education), by Course Type (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Business Management, Others), by End-user (Academic Institutions & Individuals, Enterprises): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031." According to the report, the global digital education industry generated $12.5 billion in 2021, and is estimated to reach $125.3 billion by 2031, witnessing a CAGR of 26% from 2022 to 2031. The report offers a detailed analysis of changing market trends, top segments, key investment pockets, value chain, regional landscape, and competitive scenario.

Drivers and Opportunities

Rise in the adoption of advanced technologies in digital education, increase in penetration of smartphones and the internet, and surge in use of AI and machine learning in digital education drive the growth of the global digital education market. However, factors such as lack of social interactions in digital education and high cost of implementation hamper the market growth. On the other hand, emergence of several trends such as micro learning, gamification, adoptive learning and mobile learning are expected to present lucrative opportunities for growth in the coming years.

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Covid-19 Scenario

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic led the digital education industry to shift their business operations toward remote work environment. Moreover, strict guidelines issued by governments around the globe made people stay at home. This led to the adoption of digital education globally. Thus, the pandemic had a positive impact on the digital education market.

The pandemic transformed the working model of the educational sector due to greater focus on online working models. After the outbreak of the pandemic, countries including the U.S., Italy , China , and other developed countries were one of the first countries to adopt online education courses and teaching methodologies, creating a higher investment scenario within the market for educational technology.

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The self-paced online education segment to maintain its dominance during the forecast period

Based on learning type, the self-paced online education segment grabbed more than three-fifths of the global digital education market in 2021, and is expected to rule the roost during the forecast period as self-paced online education can be implemented across different platforms, websites, PCs and mobile apps. However, the instructor-led online education segment is projected to witness the largest CAGR of 27.3% from 2022 to 2031 as it enables real time doubt clarification and two-way interactions.

The STEM segment to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period

Based on course type, the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) segment contributed to nearly three-fourths of the global digital education industry in 2021, and is expected to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. This is due to the upsurge in the number of virtual schools providing STEM courses. However, the business management segment is projected to witness the largest CAGR of 30.1% from 2022 to 2031, owing to the surge in number of jobs in the field of business management.

The academic institutions & individuals segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period

Based on end user, the academic institutions & individuals segment accounted for nearly three-fourths of the global digital education market in 2021, and is expected to maintain its lead position during the forecast period, owing to the increase in internet penetration and e-learning initiatives. However, the enterprises segment is projected to manifest the fastest CAGR of 28.8% during the forecast period due to the adoption of digital education by workers to keep up with latest technologies and skills.

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North America to maintain its dominance in terms of revenue by 2031

Based on region, North America was the largest market in 2021, accounting for nearly two-fifths of the global digital education market, and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. This is due to higher adoption of digital education in various colleges and enterprises in the region. However, Asia-Pacific is projected to manifest the fastest CAGR of 29.0% during the forecast period, owing to the growing digital infrastructure and rise in virtual colleges in the region.

Leading Market Players

Alison

Brain4ce Education Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

BYJU'S

Coursera Inc.

DataCamp, Inc.

Edmodo

edX LLC.

Intellipaat Software Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

iversity learning solutions GmbH

Jigsaw Academy Education Pvt. Ltd.

LinkedIn Corporation

MiriadaX

NovoEd

Pluralsight LLC.

Udacity, Inc.

Udemy, Inc.

XuetangX

The report analyzes these key players of the global digital education market. These players have adopted various strategies such as expansion, new product launches, partnerships, and others to increase their market penetration and strengthen their position in the industry. The report is helpful in determining the business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and developments by every market player.

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Seoul, Aug 9 (UNI) At least eight people have died, six are missing and 14 others injured as flooding caused by worst downpour in 80 years hit parts of South Korean capital Seoul.

Heavy rain lashed Seoul and adjoining areas on Monday night submerging roads, flooding metro stations and causing blackouts across the city and neighbouring provinces.

Some areas received the highest rainfall in 80 years, Korea's meteorological agency said. Weather officials said the rain was likely to continue over several days.

Yonhap news agency reported flooding homes, vehicles, buildings and subway stations on Tuesday after unprecedented rate of rain.

Parts of Seoul, the western port city of Incheon and Gyeonggi Province that surrounds Seoul received heavy rains of over 100 mm per hour Monday night, with per-hour precipitation in Seoul's Dongjak district surpassing 141.5 mm at one point, the highest downpour per hour since 1942.

The Korea Meteorological Administration said up to 300 mm of more rain is forecast for the capital area through Thursday, with southern Gyeonggi Province likely to see rains surpassing 350 mm.

The downpours left five people dead and four others missing in Seoul, while in Gyeonggi Province, three had died and two others had gone missing as of 11 a.m. Tuesday, according to the government.

Images showed floodwater gushing down the steps of metro staircases, parked cars submerged up to their windows and people making their way across streets in knee-high water.

Local reports said three victims - two sisters in their forties and a 13-year-old girl - were living in a semi-basement apartment known as a banjiha.

These apartments, located below street level, gained prominence after being featured in the Oscar-winning South Korean film "Parasite", which told the story of a poor family in such an apartment trying to find ways to make ends meet, the BBC said.

Rescue officials said they were unable to access the apartment as floodwaters had risen to waist-high levels on the street.

Of the other victims one was electrocuted, one was found under the wreckage of a bus stop and another died in a landslide.

At least 163 people in Seoul have been made homeless and have taken shelter in schools and public facilities, according to Yonhap.

The downpour also affected public transportation, as flooded railroads forced suspension of railway services in Seoul and Incheon.

South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeol ordered government officials to evacuate residents from high-risk areas, and urged businesses to grant employees flexible commuting hours on Tuesday morning.

The KMA continued to issue heavy rain warnings across Seoul and surrounding metropolitan areas, and said it expected rainfall for the central part of the country to continue at least until Wednesday.

UNI ING
Rise in chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes, high-end technological advancements in the healthcare sector, and surge in awareness regarding controlled drug delivery drive the growth of the global micro pump market.

PORTLAND, Ore., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Micropump Market by Type (Mechanical, Non Mechanical), by Material (Plastics and Composites, Ceramics, Metals), by Application (Drug delivery, In Vitro Diagnosis, Medical device, Others), by End User (Hospitals and Diagnostic Centers, Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies, Academic and Research Institutes): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031". According to the report, the global Micropump industry was estimated at $1.65 billion in 2021, and is anticipated to hit $7.40 billion by 2031, registering a CAGR of 16.2% from 2022 to 2031. The report offers an explicit analysis of the changing market trends, top segments, key investment pockets, value chain, competitive scenario, and regional landscape. The market study is exclusively meant to help the readers with a complete valuation of industry analysis and trends.

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Pre-determinant of growth-

Rise in chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes, high-end technological advancements in the healthcare sector, and surge in awareness regarding controlled drug delivery drive the growth of the global Micropump market. On the other hand, strict laws pertaining to the usage of Micropumps in human healthcare and high manufacturing cost of the devices restrain the growth to some extent. However, rise in adoption of key strategies such as collaboration, acquisition, partnership, and agreement by the market players is expected to create lucrative opportunities in the industry.

Covid-19 scenario-

Rise in expenditure by government and private organizations for the treatment of Covid-19 had a positive impact on the growth of the Micropump market.

Micropumps have widely been used during COVID-19 pandemic for treatment and investigation purposes.

Micropumps are also being used for manufacturing vaccines, which drives the demand for Micropumps in biotechnology companies.

Scope of the Report: -

Report Attribute Details Revenue forecast in 2030 $ 7.40 billion Growth rate CAGR of 16.2% from 2022 to 2031 Forecast period 2022 - 2031 Report coverage Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends Regional scope North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, MEA Country scope U.S., Canada, Germany, U.K., France, Italy, Spain, Japan, China, India, South Korea, Australia, Brazil, Mexico, South Africa, Saudi Arabia Key companies profiled ALLDOO Micro pump, Arcmed (Bio-Chem Fluidics), Bartels Mikrotechnik GmbH, Burkert GmbH & Co. KG, Cole-Parmer India Pvt, Enomoto Micro Pump Mfg. Co., Fluigent, Idex, Sandur Fluid Controls PVT.LTD, Takako Industries, Takasago Electric, Inc., TCS micro pump, The Lee Company, Thomas, TOPS Industry & Technology Co., Ltd., TTP Ventus, Xavitech.

The mechanical segment to dominate by 2031-

By type, the mechanical segment contributed to more than four-fifths of the global Micropump market share in 2021, and is expected to lead the trail by 2031. The same segment is also expected to exhibit the fastest CAGR of 16.4% from 2022 to 2031, owing to technological advancements associated with the manufacturing of mechanical Micropumps, availability of different Micropumps, and rise in the use of mechanical microscope in micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) that are used in drug delivery.

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The plastics and composites segment to maintain the lion's share-

Based on material, the plastics and composites segment generated nearly three-fourths of the global Micropump market revenue in 2021, and is expected to lead the trail by 2031. The same segment would also manifest the fastest CAGR of 16.5% from 2022 to 2031. This is attributed to the technological advancement in the field of the healthcare sector that cause rise in demand for high-quality Micropumps.

The hospitals and diagnostic centers segment to lead the trail-

Based on end-user, the hospitals and diagnostics centers segment held nearly three-fifths of the global Micropump market revenue in 2021. Simultaneously, the same segment would also garner the fastest CAGR of 16.5% during the forecast period. This is due to rise in number of hospitals, increase in expenditure by government to develop healthcare infrastructure, and surge in number of chronic diseases across the world.

North America garnered the major share in 2021-

Based on region, North America held the major share in 2021, generating nearly two-fifths of the global Micropump market. This is attributed to increase in number of research activities, technological advancements in the healthcare sector, and rise in the prevalence of chronic diseases. The Asia-Pacific region, on the other hand, would garner the fastest CAGR of 17.0% by 2031. Surge in expenditure by government organizations to develop the healthcare sector, increase in prevalence of chronic diseases, and rise in the number of key players in the province propel the market growth.

Key players in the industry-

Arcmed Co. Ltd.

Bartels Mikrotechnik Inc

Cole Parmer India Pvt. Ltd.

ALLDOO Micropump Inc

Xavitech Micropump AB

Enomoto Micropump Mfg. Co

Burkert GmbH and Co. KG

Sandur Fluid Controls PVT. LTD.

TTP Ventus Ltd

Fluigent Inc

IDEX Corporation

Takako Industries, Inc

Takasago Electric, Inc

TCS Micropump Ltd

The Lee Company, Inc.

ThomasTOPS Industry and Technology Co., Ltd.

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The report analyzes these key players in the global Micropump market. These players have incorporated various strategies such as expansion, new product launches, partnerships, and others to increase their market penetration and strengthen their position in the industry. The report is helpful in assessing the operating segments, their business performance & product portfolio, and so on.

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Digital Therapeutics Market by Application (Diabetes, Obesity, Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVD), Central Nervous System (CNS) Disease, Respiratory Diseases, Smoking Cessation, Gastrointestinal Disorders, and Others), Product Type (Software, and Devices), and Sales Channel (Business-to-Business and Business-to-Consumers): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20212030

Track and Trace Solutions Market by Product Type (Hardware Systems and Software Solutions), Technology (Barcode and RFID), Application (Serialization Solutions and Aggregation Solutions), and End User (Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies, Medical Device Companies, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20202027

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We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry.

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SOURCE Allied Market Research
DORADO, Puerto Rico, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ad Practitioners, the parent company to world-class digital media brands Money.com , ConsumersAdvocate.org , and Navchain, announced today a rebrand to Money Group. Whether saving for college or buying a home, the Money Group's dedicated team of award-winning personal finance journalists, engineers, and marketing experts deliver up-to-date news, recommendations, and solutions to life's most important decisions. Along with the rebrand, Money Group unveiled their new website, www.moneygroup.pr , to better reflect the company's vision and mission to revolutionize the way consumers and brands connect.

"Changing our name to Money Group marks an exciting evolution in our company's history," says Melissa Powel, Chief Experience Officer at Money Group. "Money.com has a rich history that aligns with our company's mission and vision and building on this brand will accelerate our growth strategy. At Money Group, we believe when we combine well-researched content with information about products and services people need, we can help people live richer in every sense of the word."

The new Money Group company name comes as the team lays out plans to celebrate Money.com's 50-year legacy of guiding people to financial victories this October. The company acquired the iconic, personal finance site, Money , in 2019 and implemented a major business overhaul and redesign, which resulted in better user experience, improved site performance, and significant growth in audience, revenue, and staff. Navchain, Money Group's lead-scoring and ad delivery platform, was a key component in helping to transform the Money brand into a profitable business. Navchain, which was developed by the team over the last 6 years, was also instrumental in establishing ConsumersAdvocate.org as one of the largest brands in Google's paid search ecosystem. ConsumersAdvocate.org , the original brand under the company umbrella, is a trusted source of reviews and recommendations for all of life's most important buying decisions.

Leveraging a half-century of expertise and trustworthy advice in the personal finance sector, data science, and their proprietary technology, Money Group is focused on helping millions of people take control of their future by fueling life-changing decisions. Money Group, which is headquartered in Dorado, Puerto Rico, is hiring for key positions to foster business expansion and growth.

ABOUT MONEY GROUP

Money Group is a digital media company whose mission is to revolutionize the way consumers and brands connect through best-in-class technology, tools, news, and recommendations that help people live richer lives in every sense of the word. The company's portfolio of brands includes Money.com, which was acquired in 2019, and ConsumersAdvocate.org, which was acquired in 2016, and Navchain, an analytics and ad delivery platform developed over the last 6 years. Leveraging a half-century of expertise and trustworthy advice in the personal finance sector, data science, and their proprietary technology, Money Group is focused on helping millions of people take control of their future by fueling life changing decisions in areas spanning health, home, lifestyle, insurance, and beyond.

Money Group is headquartered in Dorado, Puerto Rico. For more information, please visit moneygroup.pr and moneygroup.pr/careers/ for open positions.

SOURCE Money Group
More than 350,000 Institute students can receive a 10% tuition grant and a seamless transfer to ACE.

INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As a part of its mission to make high quality education both affordable and accessible, American College of Education (ACE) announced its partnership with The IGA Coca Cola Institute and Retail Learning Institute, an organization supported by The Coca Cola Company.

The agreement offers more than 350,000 students a 10% tuition grant toward ACE programs. Students with a certificate of completion from IGA Institute are eligible for a seamless transfer of six credits toward ACE's B.S. in Applied Management and Leadership program. Through the two benefits, continuing education is even more affordable and shortens the pathway to a degree.

"Our goal at ACE is to continuously ensure our programs are as accessible as possible, and that means working with outstanding partners like the Institute to make this happen," ACE President Shawntel Landry said. "Our work together will bring even more meaningful opportunities to those who are committed to enriching their professional skills and growing their careers."

The Institute is an educational organization that provides branded online courses to more than 10,000 grocery stores globally. This includes over 250 industry-specific courses covering onboarding, compliance, department/positions and specialty area in the food retail industry. The courses are free to IGA members and available for a membership fee to all retailers. Courses earn users certificates and badges.

Assistant Director of Strategic Partner Development Darryl Brown said, "This partnership is a great opportunity as both ACE and the Institute share a deep commitment to professional development and educational growth. We are looking forward to extending the reach of our programs to students of the Institute."

About American College of Education

American College of Education (ACE) is an accredited, 100% online college specializing in high-quality, affordable programs in education, business, leadership, healthcare and nursing. Headquartered in Indianapolis, ACE offers more than 70 innovative and engaging programs for adult students to pursue a doctorate, specialist, master's or bachelor's degree, along with micro-credentials and graduate-level certificate programs. In addition to being a leader in online education, ACE is a Certified B Corporation. Certified B Corporations are leaders of a global movement to use the power of business to solve social and environmental problems.

About IGA Institute

IGA Institute is a people development organization supported by The Coca-Cola Company. The Institute does business as the IGA Coca-Cola Institute, Retail Learning Institute, Grocery Start, and NGA Online Education Center. Since 1988 the Institute has been dedicated to serve retailers worldwide offering online food retail courses in English, Spanish, Portuguese and Mandarin. It provides a full LMS service that includes more than 600 courses that cover onboarding, compliance, department/position, and specialty areas. As an educational organization, it serves more than 15,000 retail locations with blended training programs that include a mobile app and support materials and services to the retailers. The Institute also provides retailers and associations with their own branded online corporate universities and tailored courses.

Media contact:

Catherine Masri

[email protected]

214-886-5870

SOURCE American College of Education
** Credit Union Encourages Los Angeles County Teachers to Apply for an Innovative Class Project Grant **

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- California Credit Union encourages Los Angeles County teachers who have an innovative class project idea to apply for a credit union grant through its biannual Teacher Grant program.

The California Credit Union grant program is available to full-time teachers in Los Angeles and Orange county, or credit union members teaching in California, looking to fund special learning opportunities for their students. The project should have clearly defined learning objectives tied to students' academic needs, display creativity, and benefit a significant number of students. Ten California Credit Union grants of $500 each will be awarded to area teachers in late October in the fall program.

"Over the last decade of providing teacher grants, we've seen some amazing programs come to life. We hope our local teachers will make their dream project a reality by applying for a fall grant," said California Credit Union President/CEO Steve O'Connell. "Our goal is to provide a little extra support for teachers, who work so hard to engage their students in innovative ways. We look forward to reviewing this fall's inspiring applications."

Interested teachers can find more information and apply online at ccu.com/teachergrant. The application deadline is September 30, 2022.

Since the creation of the program in 2012, California Credit Union has awarded $155,000 in teacher grants to benefit students across Southern California. The spring grant program funded a wide range of projects, including using geometry principles to design kites, hatching chicks, creating a mariachi music program, and building a genetics lab, among others.

About California Credit Union

California Credit Union is a federally insured, state chartered credit union founded in 1933 that serves public or private school employees, community members and businesses across California. With more than 165,000 members and assets of over $4 billion, California Credit Union has 24 branches throughout Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties. The credit union operates in San Diego County as North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union. California Credit Union offers a full suite of consumer, business and investment products and services, including comprehensive consumer checking and loan options, personalized financial planning, business banking, and leading-edge online and mobile banking. Visit ccu.com for more information or follow the credit union on Instagram or Facebook @CaliforniaCreditUnion.

SOURCE California Credit Union
** Credit Union Encourages San Diego County Teachers to Apply for an Innovative Class Project Grant **

SAN DIEGO, August 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- North Island Credit Union encourages San Diego County teachers who have an innovative class project idea to apply for a credit union grant through its biannual Teacher Grant program.

The North Island Credit Union grant program is available to full-time teachers in San Diego and Riverside County, or credit union members teaching in California, looking to fund special learning opportunities for their students. The project should have clearly defined learning objectives tied to students' academic needs, display creativity, and benefit a significant number of students. Ten North Island Credit Union grants of $500 each will be awarded to area teachers in late October in the fall program.

"Over the last decade of providing teacher grants, we've seen some amazing programs come to life. We hope our local teachers will make their dream project a reality by applying for a fall grant," said North Island Credit Union President/CEO Steve O'Connell. "Our goal is to provide a little extra support for teachers, who work so hard to engage their students in innovative ways. We look forward to reviewing this fall's inspiring applications."

Interested teachers can find more information and apply online at northisland.ccu.com/teachergrant. The application deadline is September 30, 2022.

Since the creation of the program in 2012, the credit union has awarded $155,000 in teacher grants to benefit students across Southern California. The spring grant program funded a wide range of projects, including creating an egg drop STEAM challenge, developing multi-cultural art & reading curricula, organizing a Girl Boss young entrepreneur program, and creating a multi-disciplinary nature journaling project, among others.

About North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union

California Credit Union is a federally insured, state chartered credit union founded in 1933 that serves public or private school employees, community members and businesses across California. With more than 165,000 members and assets of over $4 billion, California Credit Union has 24 branches throughout Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties. The credit union operates in San Diego County as North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union. California Credit Union offers a full suite of consumer, business and investment products and services, including comprehensive consumer checking and loan options, personalized financial planning, business banking, and leading-edge online and mobile banking. Please visit northisland.ccu.com for more information or follow the credit union on Instagram or Facebook @northislandcu.

SOURCE North Island Credit Union
TEL AVIV, Israel, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aquarius Engines (TASE: AQUA) have revealed that they signed a research and development deal with the United States Army via the US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) in March 2020, which has now been extended by an additional five years until July 2027.

Aquarius Engines invented, developed, and manufacture lightweight super-efficient linear engines based on the company's proprietary technology, that can operate on a range of alternative fuels, including hydrogen, methanol, ethanol-E85 and LPG.

Aquarius Engines' generators. (Photo Credit: Aquarius Engines)

Under the new terms, the US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) will continue to test the Aquarius Engines technology and products at US government facilities.

"The extension of the R&D agreement between Aquarius Engines and US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) is a significant expression of confidence in our company and the engine we developed. We cannot specify for what purposes US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) wishes to use our technology, but it is clear that the continuation of our fruitful cooperation constitutes another significant step in advancing our business strategy and expanding our activities around the world." Said Ariel Gorfung, CEO of Aquarius Engines.

Aquarius Engines already has partnership deals with Nokia in the field of remote communication and energy equipment management in addition to Japanese auto-parts manufacturers TPR and Honda-affiliate Musashi Seimitsu.

The 22 lbs. Aquarius Engine was invented in 2014 and is designed to be used as an onboard power generator in a vehicle or as a stand-alone electricity generator. Unlike most conventional engines that are made of hundreds of parts, the Aquarius Engine has just twenty components and one moving part. The lightweight streamlined design makes it inexpensive and highly efficient with minimal need for maintenance, compared to traditional engines.

Aquarius Engines is initially targeting the global telecom market (in collaboration with Nokia and other leading companies in the field)  to provide backup energy for communication towers, based with the Aquarius Engines generator, which runs on a variety of fuels such as: hydrogen, ethanol E85, methanol, LPG.

In the future, Aquarius Engines plans to make moves into the worlds of automotive, marine, and aviation and across the defense industry.

Aquarius Engines boasts 41 registered patents in the US and abroad and another 36 patents pending. The company has been publicly traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (AQUA) since December 2020.

The Chairman is Gal Fridman and CEO is Ariel Gorfung. Aquarius Engines has manufacturing and development centers in Israel, Germany and Poland. https://www.aquariusengines.com/

SOURCE AQUARIUS ENGINES
Flying has become the transport of choice for business travellers and holidaymakers across the globe and is now considered one of the fastest, most convenient and safest forms of long-distance travel. But how did commercial flights go from being exclusively for the wealthy to the mainstream and affordable option it is today? Artemis Aerospace guides us through the different decades of air travel and how it has shaped modern-day living

WISTON, England, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --

The first commercial flight

The history of commercial flight  how global travel took off

The first ever passenger flight took off in May 1908 when Wilbur Wright carried Charles Furnas just 2000 feet across the beach at Kitty Hawk in North Carolina. Just one year later, and the first airline in the world  German airship company DELAG  was founded.

In 1914, the world's first scheduled passenger service, an airboat piloted by Tony Jannus, set off from St Petersburg in Florida and landed at Tampa  around 17 miles away. The service only ran for four months, but it had unlocked the appetite of those keen to tap into the novelty of air transport.

A new era of aviation

However, it wasn't until the 1920s when commercial flights carrying paying passengers started to become commonplace with the introduction of the multi-engine aeroplane, the Lawson C-2, which was specifically built to carry passengers.

During this time, more and more start-up airline carriers were being established - some of which are still in operation today. These include KLM in the Netherlands (1919), Colombia's Avianca (1919), Qantas in Australia (1920) and Czech Airlines (1923).

Aircraft from this period would land frequently to refuel and fly at lower altitudes due to unpressurised cabins. This made travelling by plane noisy, cold and expensive. Flying times were lengthy and turbulence was frequent. Passengers regularly experienced air sickness and many airlines hired nurses to reduce anxiety and tend to those affected.

In 1935, one of the world's oldest airlines, Qantas, operated its first international passenger flight, travelling from Brisbane to Singapore. From there, the British-owned Imperial Airways connected this flight to the UK. This was to set the wheels in motion for creating a regular travel route between Australia and the UK in the coming decades.

Despite flying being incredibly dangerous and extremely expensive during this period, it was still a fashionable way to travel for the rich. According to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the number of airline passengers grew from just 6,000 in 1930 to nearly half a million by 1934 - the aviation industry was well on its way to becoming hugely important to the global economy.

Innovation that revolutionised air travel

The introduction of the Douglas DC-3 in 1935 also had a big impact on the future of commercial flight. The propeller-driven airliner was a larger and much improved aircraft compared to its predecessors. Faster and more reliable, it could carry up to 32 passengers and had a cruising speed of 207mph with a range of 1500 miles. This made it popular with well-established airlines, including Delta, TWA, American and United, who soon added the aircraft to their fleets.

During the 1940s, the onset of WWII meant commercial aviation developments slowed considerably. However, by the end of the decade, the industry was heading towards a new era as Pan Am began operating its fleet of Boeing 307s, which featured the first ever pressurised cabin. This transformed air travel for passengers, allowing them to enjoy a comfortable experience at an altitude of 20,000 feet. Major airlines were now ramping up their advertising spend and offering travellers smooth journeys to far flung destinations and business hubs, including Pan Am's iconic New York to London route.

The Golden Age of Air Travel

The 1950s and 1960s heralded the age of the jet engine aircraft and with it came an upsurge in commercial flights, airline carriers and international flying routes.

Commercial air travel was booming, and major airlines were fiercely competitive, offering passengers more and more inflight perks, including lavish silver-service meals and fine wines.

The airline carrier Pan Am was a front runner in pioneering and marketing the very best air travel had to offer. It was the first airline to fly worldwide and introduced ground-breaking changes to the industry, such as adding jet aircraft to their fleets and utilising computerised reservation systems.

In the 1960s, work began on creating the world's first supersonic aircraft and what would eventually become an iconic symbol of commercial flight, the Concorde. Offering transatlantic flights in just 3.5 hours, the aircraft was a hit with business travellers and royalty alike. However, tickets were extremely expensive and only a privileged few could afford to travel via Concorde.

The rise of the no frills airline

Seeing a gap in the market for making air travel more accessible to everyday people, British-owned Laker Airways, which was founded in 1966 by Freddie Laker, was one of the first airlines to start offering a budget alternative by adjusting its inflight offer.

Using the budget airline business model that is commonplace today, Laker was able to offer lower price fares by reducing inflight services and luxuries, such as free meals. The airline also found innovative ways to reduce fuel consumption and engine wear by introducing the reduced thrust take-off technique and faster climbs to obtain the optimum flying altitude in as little time as possible. Sadly, the airline was a casualty of the 1980s' recession and subsequently went bankrupt. However, it had paved the way for budget travel and had opened a world of possibilities for millions more people to get the chance to travel by air.

Today, the world's largest low-cost carrier is Southwest Airlines in the US. Synonymous with budget travel, the company's low-cost domestic and short haul offer has undoubtedly inspired many other well-known brands to tap into the no-frills market, including Ryanair and EasyJet.

Air travel for the masses

Larger and more economical aircraft, such as the Boeing 747, had also made cheaper air travel possible. Airlines were now able to carry more passengers than ever before, meaning ticket prices could be sold at a reduced rate. Holidaying abroad was no longer reserved for the rich.

This change in dynamics meant airlines now started to look for different ways to retain the luxurious service and long lunches that had been synonymous with the golden age of travel, without compromising on providing a budget alternative.

First-class cabins, sophisticated onboard bars and exclusive-use airport lounges meant those who could afford to, could still travel in style.

During the 1980s and 1990s, the budget airlines Ryanair and EasyJet launched. Offering airfares for as little as 20, they changed the face of commercial flying and put pressure on traditional carriers to lower ticket prices.

Security tightening in the 2000s

The tragic events of 9/11 had a profound effect on air travel. Security at airports was increased significantly and passengers without a ticket at US airports could no longer accompany friends and family through security to the gate.

Cockpit security also heightened. Previously, it had been possible for passengers to visit the flight deck and speak to the pilots. However, after 2001, cockpit doors were locked with only the pilots controlling who could enter.

A new era for air travel

According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, it took until 2004 for air passenger numbers to reach pre-9/11 levels and until 2007 to reach a record high.

During this period, low-cost carriers were experiencing increased demand as the popularity of booking websites surged and, by 2009, figures from the tourism research company PhoCusWright reported that half of all travel-related bookings were being made online.

Passenger numbers continued to surge throughout the 2010s and by the end of the decade the volume of travellers using commercial airlines was at an all-time high.

The post-pandemic era  flying into a new age for aviation

Prior to the pandemic, the International Air Transport Association predicted that the number of airline passengers could reach 7.2 billion by 2035. However, nobody in the industry could prepare for the global aircraft groundings and unpredictable travel restrictions caused by COVID-19.

Despite this, the industry is full of optimism. As we enter a new era for aviation, and reflect on the past, we can be confident that no matter what obstacles we encounter, air travel will prevail.

www.artemisaerospace.com

Sources

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/air-space-magazine/above-beyond-180962399/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airline#:~:text=History-

https://www.burnsmcd.com/insightsnews/publications/aviation-special-report/2011/timeline-of-commercial-aviation

https://www.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/86315/how-air-travel-has-changed-in-every-decade-from-the-1920s-to-today

https://www.century-of-flight.net/commercial-aviation-industry-1920-1930/

https://metroairportnews.com/travel-by-air-the-golden-years-1920s-1960s/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Douglas_DC-3

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pan_Am

Artemis Aerospace offers an innovative approach to component solutions for the aviation sector. Established in 1999, the company has earned a reputation for outstanding customer service by solving problems and providing a range of realistic options that offer customers the flexibility and freedom to choose a solution that suits their timescale and budget. Its services include component supplies, component repairs, lessor support, flight simulation hardware support, consignment stock management and global aircraft logistics.

With decades of expertise in global aviation logistics, the expert team works with trusted MROs, OEMs, and aftermarket suppliers around the world to offer 24/7 support to its global customer base.

www.artemisaerospace.com

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1875121/Artemis_Aerospace_history.jpg

SOURCE Artemis Aerospace
SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Astroport Space Technologies, Inc. has been awarded its second NASA Phase 1 Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) contract for the construction of landing pads on the Moon.

Astroport and its research partner, The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), will develop geotechnical engineering processes for "Lunar Surface Site Preparation for Landing/Launch Pad and Blast Shield Construction" with a focus on "regolith works" for bulk regolith excavation and movement. The project will build on Astroport's previous Phase 1 STTR-21 work on regolith melting technologies and robotic bricklaying system for lunar infrastructure construction.

The new research will describe a multi-step Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for "regolith works" executed by multiple machines operating autonomously or in remote control mode with step sequencing/timing to enable machine-to-machine collaboration. In particular, it will define conveyance techniques and sorting and filtering processes to prepare and deliver excavated regolith to Astroport's Lunatron bricklayer system.

The project will utilize space civil engineering expertise from the University of Adelaide's Andy Thomas Centre for Space Resources (ATCSR) in Australia. Venturi Astrolab of Hawthorne, CA, will provide consulting support for integration into the overall system architecture of their FLEX rover as a baseline robotic mobility platform operating a suite of excavation tools.

Astroport's Founder/CEO and Space Architect, Sam Ximenes said, "we are pleased that NASA continues to place confidence in our team's ability to define and develop technologies and processes for lunar infrastructure construction. Under this new contract, the Astroport team will continue its work on the overall construction system architecture that we have started last year. Our objectives are to advance the state-of-art with geotechnical engineering and civil engineering processes for bulk regolith manipulation using a "regolith works" toolset for preparation of the lunar launch/landing site".

Principal investigator for UTSA, Dr. Sazzad Bin-Shafique, said "this research is a natural progression of the University's regolith liquefaction investigations, in that the Phase 1 study will develop discreet-event modeling of the bulk regolith conveyance methods to help determine feeds rates for Astroport's Lunatron bricklayer system." UTSA co-principal investigator, Dr. Ibukun Awolusi, assistant professor of construction science and management stated that "leveraging innovative technologies and systems such as those proposed in this study offers remarkable opportunities for the use of lunar materials, construction processes, and our efforts toward achieving space sustainability."

ATCSR is one of a handful of organizations globally that has focused on the development of "space civil engineering" processes for planetary construction. ATCSR has developed numerical modeling to represent the geotechnical behavior of the natural lunar regolith when subjected to load in a lunar environment. This numerical representation facilitates the modeling of a range of lunar construction activities, such as vehicular movement, excavation, and compaction.

John Culton, Director of the Andy Thomas Centre for Space Resources at the University of Adelaide said, "ATCSR is proud to support cutting-edge US partners leading the development of critical off-Earth civil engineering processes required to return humans to the Moon, 'this time to stay'".

About Astroport: Astroport Space Technologies Inc. is a space construction and materials manufacturing company turning planetary resources into durable feedstock for autonomous construction of lunar surface infrastructure. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, Astroport was founded with a vision to design, deploy, and operate interplanetary landing ports to facilitate safe, reliable, and efficient spaceflights to the Moon, Mars and beyond. Astroport is a deep tech startup founded in 2020, operating as a technology venture arm of Exploration Architecture Corporation (XArc), a space architecture consulting design and engineering firm established in 2007.

About UTSA: The NASA MIRO Center for Advanced Measurements in Extreme Environments (CAMEE) at The University of Texas at San Antonio was established in 2019 to support NASA's Science, Aeronautics, and Space Technology Mission Directorates, with the vision of building a sustainable source of diverse, highly trained researchers to enter the Nation's workforce in NASA fields of earth system sciences, remote sensing and imaging technologies, computational fluid dynamics and data analytics, and experimental fluid mechanics. Space civil engineering has been added as a focus thrust area for the Center. Funding for the Center is provided through a NASA MUREP Institutional Research Opportunity (MIRO) award.

About ATCSR: The Andy Thomas Centre for Space Resources (ATCSR) is the University of Adelaide's hub for space expertise, creating a collaborative interdisciplinary ecosystem with lunar simulation labs not found anywhere else in the Southern Hemisphere. Unique opportunities to make history are found here for students and industry to support long-term human presence in deep space focusing on habitation, agriculture, human health and space law. Outcomes of our work will not only benefit humans in space but will positively impact life here on Earth.

SOURCE Astroport Space Technologies, Inc.
Pennsylvania 811 encourages people to make a request 3 days before digging to avoid damaging buried utilities

WEST MIFFLIN, Pa., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Aug. 11 is almost here, and on its 50th anniversary of service to the Commonwealth, Pennsylvania One Call System hopes that the 8/11 date on the calendar will serve as a natural reminder for residents to contact 811 prior to any digging project to have underground utility lines marked. Every few minutes an underground utility line is damaged because someone decided to dig without first contacting 811.

50th anniversary of service to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

When calling 811, homeowners and contractors are connected to Pennsylvania One Call System, the local 811 center, which notifies the appropriate utility companies of their intent to dig. Professional locators then arrive at the digging site to mark the approximate locations of underground lines with flags, spray paint or both.

Striking a single line can cause injury, repair costs, inconvenient outages and fines. Every digging project, no matter how large or small, warrants contacting 811 by phone or online. Installing a mailbox, building a deck, planting a tree and laying a patio are just some examples of digging projects that require an 811 request at least three days before breaking ground.

"On Aug. 11 and throughout the year, we remind homeowners and professional contractors alike to use the 811 service before digging to reduce the risk of striking an underground utility line," said Bill Kiger, President & CEO for Pennsylvania One Call System. "Calling 811 or visiting www.pa811.org is really the only way to know which utilities are buried in your area so that you can dig safely."

The depth of utility lines can vary for a number of reasons, such as erosion, previous digging projects and uneven surfaces. Utility lines need to be properly marked because even when digging only a few inches or digging in a location that's previously been marked, the risk of striking an underground utility line still exists.

Visit www.paonecall.org for more information about 811 and safe digging practices.

SOURCE Pennsylvania One Call System, Inc.
US to take steps to Counter Chinese activity around Taiwan :State Dept 18 Aug 2022 | 12:31 AM Washington, August 17 (UNI) The United States will take steps in the coming weeks and months to counter China's military and economic activity around Taiwan, State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Wednesday. see more..

21 PLA aircrafts, 5 Ships spotted around Taiwan 17 Aug 2022 | 10:51 PM Taipei city, August 17 (UNI) The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) sent 21 aircrafts and five warships to Taiwan on Wednesday, the Taiwanese defense ministry said on Wednesday. see more..

UN wants impartial investigation extrajudicial killings in police custody in Bangladesh 17 Aug 2022 | 10:51 PM Dhaka, Aug 17 (UNI) The UN wants an impartial investigation into the disappearances, extrajudicial killings and torture in police custody in Bangladesh, said Michel Bachelet, head of the organization's human rights affairs. see more..

Mali accuses France of arming terrorists 17 Aug 2022 | 10:37 PM Bamako, August 17 (UNI) Mali's Foreign Minister Abdoulaye Diop has accused France of arming terrorists and called for the UN Security Council to intervene, in a letter obtained by state-run French radio RFI. see more..
FOSHAN, China, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bright Scholar Education Holdings Limited ("Bright Scholar," the "Company," "we" or "our") (NYSE: BEDU), a global premier education service company, today announced that it will change the ratio of its American Depositary Shares ("ADSs") to Class A ordinary shares from one (1) ADS representing one (1) Class A ordinary share to one (1) ADS representing four (4) Class A ordinary shares.

For Bright Scholar's ADS holders, this ratio change will have the same effect as a 1-for-4 reverse ADS split. There will be no change to Bright Scholar's Class A ordinary shares. Furthermore, no physical action by ADS holders will be required to effect the ratio change, as the change will be effected on the books of the depositary. The effect of the ratio change on the ADS trading price on the New York Stock Exchange is expected to take place at the open of business on August 19, 2022 (U.S. Eastern Time). Any fractional ADSs will be sold and the net proceeds from the sale of fractional ADSs will be distributed to the holders entitled thereto.

As a result of the change in the ADS ratio, the ADS price is expected to increase proportionally, although Bright Scholar can give no assurance that the ADS price after the change in the ADS ratio will be equal to or greater than four times the ADS price before the change.

About Bright Scholar Education Holdings Limited

Bright Scholar is a global premier education service company, which primarily provides quality international education to global students and equip them with the critical academic foundation and skillsets necessary to succeed in the pursuit of higher education. Bright Scholar also complements its international offerings with Chinese government-mandated curriculum for students who wish to maintain the option of pursuing higher education in China.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the Company's business plans and development, which can be identified by terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "potential," "continue," "is/are likely to" or other similar expressions. Such statements are based upon management's current expectations and current market and operating conditions and relate to events that involve known or unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company's control, which may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under law.

IR Contact:

GCM Strategic Communications

Email: [email protected]

Media Contact:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +86-757-6683-2507

SOURCE Bright Scholar Education Holdings Ltd.
All educators at 2,000 schools across the country will score free Chipotle as they return to the classroom

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. , Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced it will recognize all teachers at 2,000 schools in the U.S. with more than $1 million in free Chipotle*.

How It Works

Chipotle is honoring teachers heading into a new school year with more than $1 million in free Chipotle.

To honor teachers heading into a new school year, Chipotle fans can nominate their favorite K-12 educators to give their schools a chance to receive free Chipotle entrees for all teachers at their school. Through August 12, fans can tag a teacher and leave a comment about their impact in the following posts on Chipotle's Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter channels:

Starting the week of August 15, Chipotle will randomly select 2,000 teachers in the comments to give free Chipotle entrees to all teachers at their school, the equivalent to more than $1 million total in free Chipotle.

Chipotle's giveback aims to rally students and entire communities around their indispensable teachers.

"Teachers Cultivate a Better World by shaping the next generation," said Chris Brandt, Chief Marketing Officer. "As a longtime supporter of education, we are encouraging our fans to join us in recognizing teachers and their impact on America's youth."

Kids In Need Foundation

Chipotle will also leverage its Round-Up for Real Change feature on the Chipotle app and Chipotle.com to support Kids In Need Foundation (WWW.KINF.ORG), a national non-profit organization that partners with teachers and students in underserved schools to provide the resources needed for teachers to teach and learners to learn. Through August 31, Chipotle invites guests to join its mission to Cultivate a Better World by rounding up their bill to the next highest dollar amount on the Chipotle app or Chipotle.com to donate to Kids In Need Foundation Supply A Teacher Program. Each teacher from participating schools will receive supplies to fuel a semester of active learning, including notebooks, folders, pencil packs and pouches, sharpeners, rulers, erasers, highlighters, sticky note pads, and pens. In the U.S., more than 94% of public-school teachers pay for school supplies out of their own pocket, and on average, they spend nearly $500 for their respective classes**.

Chipotle's Round Up for Kids In Need Foundation has raised more than $2 million to date for thousands of under-resourced teachers and students across the country.

Cultivate Education

In addition to supporting teachers and its local communities, Chipotle also provides its workforce with the opportunity to achieve a higher education at no cost through its partnership with Guild Education, the country's leading education and upskilling company. After only 120 days of employment, employees are eligible to pursue debt-free degrees from leading non-profit, accredited universities across 100 majors as part of its Cultivate Education program. Additionally, Chipotle's Tuition Reimbursement Program allows eligible employees to be reimbursed for tuition up to $5,250 per year in qualifying programs. Chipotle also offers English as a second language to all employees and their families, opportunities for upskilling through its learning management system (LMS), Spice Hub, and more.

*Nominate an eligible K-12 teacher in the U.S. (virtual/homeschool not eligible) between approx. 12:01 am PT on 8/9/22  approx. 11:59 pm PT on 8/12/22. For Official Rules including how to participate, teacher definition, and complete details, visit chipotle.com/burritos4teachers. Sponsor: CMG Strategy Co., LLC

**Source: THE WASHINGTON POST

About Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Chipotle had over 3,000 restaurants as of June 30, 2022, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany and is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants. Chipotle is ranked on the Fortune 500 and is recognized on the 2022 list for Fortune's Most Admired Companies. With over 100,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. For more information or to place an order online, visit WWW.CHIPOTLE.COM.

SOURCE Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.
Demand for midscale brand featuring affordable, elevated essentials grows

ROCKVILLE, Md., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Successfully building on efforts to bring its elevated, cost effective essentials to new markets nationwide, Clarion Pointe, a midscale select-service brand extension franchised by Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), celebrated the milestone opening of the brand's 50th hotel this summer.

Clarion Pointe is celebrating the 50th hotel opening.

The latest development milestone comes on the heels of several recent openings, including in the markets of Abingdon, Virginia; Greensboro, North Carolina; and Indianapolis, Indiana. In addition, interest in the brand remains strong; in the first half of this year, Clarion Pointe awarded contracts are up nearly +20 percent over last year.

"Clarion Pointe was uniquely designed to help owners create an affordable travel experience for today's guests," said Kristen Salotti, senior director, foundation brands, Choice Hotels. "Just three years after opening the first Clarion Pointe hotel, this milestone is a testament to Choice Hotels' commitment to the continued success of Clarion Pointe owners."

Soon, Clarion Pointe will build on its ongoing expansion with additional franchise openings in markets such as Baltimore, Maryland; Durham, North Carolina; and Tampa, Florida.

"Today's growth-minded owners want flexibility and resources in the brands they operate, and Clarion Pointe delivers this and more with a streamlined conversion process and unmatched industry support from the Choice Hotels team. It's why in such a short timeframe since its launch, Clarion Pointe hasn't just successfully expanded its affordable, modern accommodations to more of guests' favorite markets nationwide, but it has also cemented its reputation within the development community as one of the leading conversion opportunities in the midscale segment," said Tom Nee, senior vice president, franchise development, Choice Hotels.

Like all Clarion Pointe hotels, the newest properties allow travelers to optimize their stay with "focal pointes," including:

- Contemporary design touches that guests will want to share with friends, such as signature murals in the lobby and guest rooms inspired by local points of interest.

- Thoughtful food and beverage selections, starting with a complimentary breakfast and coffee, all the way through craft beer, select wine and small bites available for purchase in the marketplace.

- Technology with on-demand connectivity to work or chill out, including 49-inch TVs with casting capabilities and free, streaming-strength Wi-Fi.

- Dedicated workout space featuring all the modern essentials, like cardio equipment and a strength-training station, to stay fit to the core.

"Guests love the elevated essentials and contemporary design, along with the extras like area-inspired murals that surprise and delight travelers when they stay at Clarion Pointe. In the highly competitive midscale market, these "focal pointes," coupled with Choice's industry-leading tools and resources, are a true differentiator when it comes to positioning your property for success," said Ankur Brahmbhatt, longtime Choice Hotels franchisee and owner of the Clarion Pointe on the Lake Clarksville-South Hill West, which opened earlier this year.

For more information on development opportunities, visit www.choicehotelsdevelopment.com/clarion-pointe.

About Clarion Pointe

The Clarion Pointe brand, franchised by Choice Hotels, offers savvy, sensible travelers more options for affordable travel. Hotels offer guests a convenient and affordable experience with elevated essentials in just the right places, including contemporary design touches, curated food and beverage options, and on-demand connectivity. In addition to comfortable rooms with signature murals, Clarion Pointe properties offer modern fitness essentials plus free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast. As of June 30, 2022, there are more than 100 Clarion Pointe hotels open or awaiting conversion since the brand launched. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com/clarion-pointe.

About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world. With nearly 7,000 hotels, representing nearly 600,000 rooms, in 35 countries and territories as of June 30, 2022, the Choice family of hotel brands provides business and leisure travelers with a range of high-quality lodging options from limited service to full-service hotels in the upscale, midscale, extended-stay and economy segments. The award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty program offers members a faster way to rewards, with personalized benefits starting on day one. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com.

Forward-Looking Statement

This communication includes "forward-looking statements" about future events, including anticipated hotel openings. Such statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including construction delays, availability and cost of financing and the other "Risk Factors" described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, any of which could cause actual results to be materially different from our expectations.

Addendum

This is not an offering. No offer or sale of a franchise will be made except by a Franchise Disclosure Document first filed and registered with applicable state authorities. A copy of the Franchise Disclosure Document can be obtained through contacting Choice Hotels International at 1 Choice Hotels Circle, Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20850, [email protected].

 2022 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.

SOURCE Choice Hotels International, Inc.
DENVER, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fortis, a high-growth commercial bank serving small- to medium-sized privately held businesses in Colorado and Utah, is pleased to welcome Clint Crews as their Head of Colorado Commercial and Specialty Lending.

Crews joins Fortis with over 15 years of commercial banking experience, most recently as a Commercial Banking Group Manager at Independent Financial, where he developed a reputation as a strong leader and team builder. In his new role, Clint will lead and develop Fortis' Middle Market and Specialty Lending strategy in the Denver region. He will manage a team of high-caliber bankers, ensuring both new and existing clients receive the unparalleled product and service offerings that they have come to expect and deserve.

"Throughout my career in banking, building and maintaining client relationships and ensuring my clients have the best service and options available to fit their needs has been my core focus," stated Clint. "I am thrilled for the opportunity to join Fortis and lead the growth of their Colorado market, knowing that client service has and always will be at the center of our culture."

"We could not be more excited for Clint to join Fortis and lead our team in Colorado," added Josh Peters, Chief Lending Officer. "His track record of excellence in the Denver market will have a meaningful impact on our ability to continue recruiting talented, veteran bankers. He is a natural fit into our organization; his passion and enthusiasm will have a lasting influence on our clients and presence in the community."

About Fortis

Fortis is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and is a state-chartered bank with offices in the Denver and Salt Lake City metropolitan areas. The bank provides business and personal clients with a full suite of loan, treasury management and deposit products, with an emphasis on Commercial and Specialty clients. To learn more about Fortis, visit www.fortisprivatebank.com.

Contact

Laura Hildreth, Senior Vice President, Head of Human Resources

[email protected]

SOURCE Fortis
Fund at Philadelphia Foundation Supports Housing Needs of Women

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The VBC Giving Foundation (VBCGF) has just been awarded a $95,000 grant from Philadelphia Foundation's Coles House Fund to support its efforts to help female Veterans break the cycle of homelessness. The Coles House Fund grant is designated to supply security deposit, rent and utilities assistance to female Veterans seeking permanent housing at VBCGF's Veterans Village. The new 47-unit affordable housing community for Veterans, located at 5127 Duffield Street in Northeast Philadelphia's Frankford neighborhood, is the first project VBCGF has funded in fulfillment of its mission to provide high quality, dignified Supportive and Affordable Housing for those in need nationwide.

"We are so grateful for the support of Coles House Fund through the Philadelphia Foundation," said Dana Spain, president of VBCGF. "This donation will help female Veterans transition from shelters and recovery programs into permanent housing at Veterans Village. This funding will directly help these women break the cycle of homelessness."

Helping female Veterans transition from shelters and recovery programs to permanent affordable housing. Tweet this

"Women are assuming combat roles in the military," Spain noted. "It is imperative we support them when they return, as we see an increasing number of female Veterans come home with PTSD and other challenges. Having a safe, respectful place to call home is the first step to ensuring their future success."

The Coles House Fund, a Donor Advised Fund established at Philadelphia Foundation in 2002, traces its roots to a Young Women's Board Home Association founded in 1865 by Mary Coles to advance the ability of women to get jobs by providing them with safe, comfortable, and affordable housing when they came to Philadelphia for work or study.

The housing proved so popular that Coles secured donations to acquire four adjoining townhouses in the 900 block of Clinton Street that eventually accommodated 74 women. When the organization ceased operations after more than 135 years, the buildings  by then listed on the National Register of Historic Places  were sold, with the proceeds used to create the Philadelphia Foundation fund to support in perpetuity the housing needs of women in Philadelphia.

ABOUT VBC GIVING FOUNDATION

The VBC Giving Foundation was created by Volumetric Building Companies (VBC) to address the housing crisis in America, and to give back to the communities it serves. Through the foundation, VBC is creating an opportunity to bridge the housing gap and provide Supportive and Affordable Housing for those in need: special needs adults; Veterans; seniors; and working families, amongst other demographics.

The foundation is powered by VBC's robust national coalition of modular manufacturing companies, raw and finished materials suppliers, developers, and real estate experts across the country. With generations of combined experience, VBC is strategically poised to address the increasing need for Affordable and Supportive Housing by utilizing a proven, time-efficient, and environmentally sound method to deploy high-quality multi-family modular projects to all sectors in need, and to any community across the nation. These projects will ease the housing burden for municipalities and other agencies nationwide, contributing to long-lasting thriving neighborhoods.

Veterans Village (VV) is a 47-unit new construction permanent housing community for Veterans. As the first project spearheaded by the VBC Giving Foundation, VV will serve as a template for future housing projects for seniors, Veterans, special needs adults and other vulnerable populations across the country. The Joan & Bernard Spain Family Foundation donated the seed funding necessary to bring this project to fruition.

ABOUT PHILADELPHIA FOUNDATION

Founded in 1918, the Philadelphia Foundation strengthens the economic, social, and civic vitality of Greater Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Foundation grows effective philanthropic investment, connects individuals and institutions across sectors and geography, and advances civic initiatives through partnerships and collaboration. A publicly supported foundation, the Philadelphia Foundation manages more than 900 charitable funds established by its donors and makes over 1,000 grants and scholarship awards each year. To learn more, visit www.philafound.org

Media Contacts:

VBC Giving Foundation: Shelley Clark, [email protected] or

Teresa Lundy, [email protected].

Philadelphia Foundation: Betsy Anderson, [email protected].

SOURCE VBC Giving Foundation
SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Broadly speaking, the "last mile" of a product's journey to the customer refers to logistics, installation, and after-sales service. Cyrusher Electric Bikes offers a direct local delivery and installation service in France to solve this problem and give customers a higher quality product delivery. This service model is provided by Cyrusher's local team in France, which is a standardized service team. They will send a truck transport service, and the truck will have the Cyrusher brand and the team's contact information. There are two options for logistics and installation services. Option one is free delivery, but no installation service is included. Option two costs 75 Euros to complete the home delivery and installation service. The basic process of this service model is systematic. Local team members in France receive orders and choose the best route according to the customer's delivery address to achieve fast delivery and convenient installation services. This service model enables more efficient delivery of products. Cyrusher's French team has a comprehensive sales service. If you need any repair during the warranty period, you can call the local team in France to request a repair, which will solve your worries. For customers who buy Cyrusher e-bikes, the French local team's trucks are in the mobile process of transportation and distribution. The team can communicate more directly with the customer to popularize the performance related to the e-bike and his notes on assembly. In addition, with the mobile location change of the French local team's truck, it can meet customers' needs in different regions and test ride anytime and anywhere. They are allowing customers to experience the product's performance realistically.

Regarding Cyrusher's e-bike products, the team has also been focusing on the user's experience with the products, continuously upgrading the performance and design of the products. Here are two of Cyrusher's most popular full suspension fat tire ebike models, the Cyrusher XF900 and Kommoda. The XF900 and Kommoda are common pairing choices for customers in the straddle and straight stride e-bike series.

The Cyrusher XF900 is an all-terrain, fat-tire e-bike. The most attractive feature of the e-bike is the motorcycle-style suspension fork at the front of the e-bike, which is the top of the line for Cyrusher e-bikes. The fat tire and full suspension configuration allow the rider to ride more comfortably and steadily in an all-terrain environment. a 48V 17A removable lithium-ion battery powers the Cyrusher XF900, and the powerful 750W motor allows the rider to run at a variety of speeds, seeing that the product also shows extraordinary charm in terms of performance.

The Cyrusher Kommoda is the latest crossover e-bike to be launched. Visually, the Kommoda's design appeals to many e-bike enthusiasts. Having a quality 750W motor makes the rider ride with more assisted power when riding on bumpy and rugged hills, and the battery life performs well. What's more interesting is that it has fat tires and full suspension. It can go with the flow and be stable on gravel or bumpy trails. For shorter riders or riders with limited mobility to get on and off the bike more efficiently, this electric bike reflects Cyrusher's thinking about different people using electric bikes and meeting people's needs.

The Cyrusher brand has been established for eight years. Its mission is to create personal mobility products that look amazing and are fun to use, emboldening a new active lifestyle for many people wherever they may be. Cyrusher has always been determined to use the most affordable price and high-quality products to the service of cyclists who love riding. From the beginning of bicycle parts sales to a valuable and excellent electric bike brand, the process is challenging, but because of persistence and love, Cyrusher has grown step by step to become an excellent brand that can meet the needs of electric bike development. The team has produced more professional electric bikes through consistent efforts over the years. The products have passed international quality tests and met CE, UL, Rhos, and Fcc standards. The brand has also received registration and recognition in Australia, China, EU, Japan, Korea and USA. Cyrusher is headquartered in Shenzhen, China's Silicon Valley, with distribution centers in the US, UK, France, Germany, and Japan, as well as offline store test rides in several countries, including the US, UK, and France. The team has always been meticulous in its professionalism and relentless in its efforts to give back to every customer who loves Cyrusher with quality products and thoughtful service. Service is the most critical thing for a brand, and Cyrusher electric bikes are excellent in the quality of the products and achieve the ultimate in service. The local team in France is a perfect example of how Cyrusher always puts the customer experience first to meet customers' needs to the fullest extent.

For more information, Please feel free to contact Cyrusher official website:

USA official website: www.cyrusher.com

UK official website: www.cyrusher.co.uk

FR official website: www.cyrusher.fr

Tel: (800) 778-0116

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Cyrusher
Massachusetts Homeowners Can Now Access Affordable, Sustainable Geothermal Heating and Cooling, Supporting State's Ambitious Climate Objectives

MARLBOROUGH, Mass., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Dandelion Energy , the nation's leading home geothermal company, today announced expanded access to geothermal heating and cooling for Massachusetts residents.

Today, more than 25 percent of Massachusetts residents rely on heating oil, and 52 percent draw from utility gas to heat their homes. These resources are increasingly expensive for homeowners while undermining the state's climate objectives.

Now, Massachusetts residents can combat climate change while lowering their heating and cooling costs and improving in-home air quality with a Dandelion geothermal system using a ground source heat pump. It's estimated that on-site fossil fuel combustion contributes 27 percent of the state's greenhouse gas emissions, making in-home efficiencies a critical part of the state's energy transition.

Massachusetts homeowners can qualify for a $15,000 rebate for a new Dandelion Geothermal system with MassSave incentives . Geothermal systems are also exempt from state sales tax. When coupled with federal tax incentives and financing for upfront costs, accessing geothermal heating and cooling is more affordable than ever before.

Jurgen Weiss, an Energy Economist, who, while teaching at Harvard Business School recently wrote a case study on Dandelion, has explored whether geothermal energy could work in his home and emphasized the importance of the company's announcement, "Geothermal heating and cooling is so much more energy efficient than other options. For people like me heating their homes with gas, it is the only technology that has a chance of both being carbon free and lowering my heating bills. Since we need gas users to switch to carbon-free heating and many won't do it if they have to pay a lot more, geothermal is likely key to the state meeting its climate goals. Dandelion Energy is exactly the type of company that we want to see opening operations in Massachusetts so that more of us have good geothermal options."

With geothermal heating and cooling, homeowners eliminate fuel delivery and heating bills, saving thousands on fuel and propane. What's more, geothermal systems are 30 percent more efficient in cooling mode than central AC. Homeowners will see meaningful reductions in their overall energy bills.

"Massachusetts residents are looking for alternatives to fuel oil and natural gas-powered heating. We are thrilled to help meet that demand by expanding our services to Massachusetts," said Michael Sachse, CEO of Dandelion Energy. "We are excited to work with Massachusetts homeowners to reduce their energy costs and improve environmental sustainability with clean, high-efficiency heating and cooling."

Geothermal, or ground source heat pumps, provides the cleanest and most efficient heating and air conditioning at significant savings over fuel oil, propane, and natural gas systems. Dandelion Home Geothermal Systems can be purchased for cash or with financing. Dandelion is now offering systems to homeowners through Massachusetts, excluding Cape Cod and the greater Boston area inside the I-95 Corridor.

To learn more about geothermal heating and cooling or to see if your home qualifies, visit https://dandelionenergy.com/ .

About Dandelion Energy

As the nation's leading home geothermal company, Dandelion Energy helps homeowners free their homes from fossil fuels. By making geothermal heating and cooling systems accessible and affordable for modern homeowners, Dandelion is working to mitigate climate change with renewable technologies that decarbonize homes. Today, Dandelion's heating and cooling solutions allow homeowners to save up to 50 percent on their heating and cooling bills and help the environment by moving away from conventional systems to reduce homes' carbon dioxide emissions by up to 80 percent. The state-of-the-art geothermal heat pump system offers wifi-enabled monitoring, creating a smarter, more responsive, and more innovative approach than any other HVAC system on the market. To learn more, visit www.dandelionenergy.com .

Press Inquiries

Kathy Berardi

JMG Public Relations

[email protected]

678-644-4122

SOURCE Dandelion Energy
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Late Friday a federal court in San Francisco allowed a case against subsidiaries of CVS Health Corporation brought by HIV-positive "John Doe" plaintiffs to proceed, denying CVS's motion to dismiss the case.

This ruling comes on the heels of CVS's abrupt dismissal late last year of its appeal to the United States Supreme Court of a unanimous decision by the Ninth Circuit in favor of the plaintiffs who allege CVS's prescription drug program puts their lives at risk.

Download the Order denying CVS's Motion to Dismiss.

CVS's program limits people living with HIV to obtaining their life-saving medications only by mail-ordercutting off access to pharmacists and other critical benefits and services essential for people living with HIVwhile continuing to make the same benefits and services available to other enrollees.

CVS's latest motion had sought to dismiss the case contending that the plaintiffs had not adequately alleged CVS receives "federal financial assistance," a requirement to sue for disability discrimination under health programs subject to federal civil rights statutes.

However, as the plaintiffs pointed out, CVS receives hundreds of millions of dollars each year from the federal government under the federal Medicare, Medicaid and other health programs.

CVS argued that its corporate subsidiaries that received the federal money were not responsible for any discriminatory conduct, and that its corporate subsidiaries that did participate in the alleged discriminatory conduct did not receive any federal money.

In effect, CVS argued that a large corporate defendant could defeat the broad goals of civil rights statutes by slicing and dicing its subsidiaries.

But as the Court noted in Friday's Order:

"To permit the CVS entities to escape responsibility as a result of the establishment of corporate structures which cabin their functions would exalt form over substance, and would be antithetical to the overarching purpose of the anti-discrimination provision of the [Affordable Care Act]."

In addition to the five CVS defendants named in the case, CVS has hundreds of other subsidiaries.

CVS, one of the largest healthcare companies in the world, owns pharmacies throughout the U.S., but also operates as a pharmacy benefit manager, which coordinates pharmacy benefits for people like the John Does who are enrolled in employer-provided health plans.

The case before the U.S. Supreme Court dismissed late last year involved an appeal by CVS of a unanimous ruling by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals finding the HIV-positive plaintiffs had appropriately pled a claim for disability discrimination against CVS under the Affordable Care Act.

Read more about the U.S. Supreme Court case here: https://consumerwatchdog.org/courtroom/groups-commend-cvss-withdrawal-us-supreme-court-challenge-hiv-rights

Following the dismissal of the U.S. Supreme Court appeal, the case returned to the federal district court for additional proceedings.

Most other major health insurance companies in the United States now allow members to opt out of mail-order-only delivery of HIV medications because of numerous settlements achieved by attorneys for Consumer Watchdog and Whatley Kallas, LLP, which represent the John Doe plaintiffs in the CVS action.

The CVS case is John Doe One, et al. v. CVS, et al., No.: 3:18-cv-01031 and is pending in federal district court in San Francisco before United States District Judge Edward M. Chen.

SOURCE Consumer Watchdog
TAMPA, Fla., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- DocuPhase, a leading provider of Business Process Automation (BPA), accounting automation, and B2B payments software and solutions, announced the acquisition of Frevvo, a workflow automation company providing digital online web forms to capture and manage data. The addition of Frevvo's form and signature technologies further enhances the DocuPhase automation platform, which today offers data recognition (OCR), document management, workflow automation, accounting automation, and payment processing technologies to more than 1,000 customers.

Frevvo, founded in 2008, is a rapidly growing online forms and workflow automation solution serving various industries and businesses of all sizes. The company is well established within Higher Education intuitions and K-12 school districts for delivering automation solutions for student enrollment process, financial aid applications, transcript requests, and various other functions within registrars and student administration offices.

DocuPhase announces the acquisition of Frevvo, a workflow automation company providing digital online web forms. Tweet this

DocuPhase, backed by growth equity firm LoneTree, continues to invest in technology and the resources needed to serve growing market demand in automation software. "The lingering pandemic and rising business expenses on top of a competitive job market has forced businesses to reevaluate their back-office inefficiencies and find ways to operate remotely. For organizations, this means finding ways to transition from manual, paper-based processes to more modern automated systems." Said Matt Koven, Managing Partner at LoneTree. "The acquisition of Frevvo extends DocuPhase's platform solution capabilities, keeping us in position to meet the digital transformation needs of our customers and the market."

"Education is a market Docuphase has targeted for growth," said Dan Gaertner, CEO of DocuPhase. "Frevvo accelerates that strategy with a customer base that features an extensive list of the world's largest, most respected educational institutions. The simplicity of Frevvo's technology inherently creates new market opportunities." Dan Gaertner continued, "It can be as simple as an elementary school deploying a student field trip consent form online with a digital signature for parents or as robust to service a Fortune 500 company automating new vendors and invoice approvals for 15,000 invoices a month. DocuPhase plans to integrate their payment processing technology within Frevvo's digital forms allowing customers to collect payments on form submissions. Dan Gaertner concluded, "You'd be surprised how many parents still clip that $20.00 bill to a signed paper field trip form."

About DocuPhase: DocuPhase is the ultimate solution for companies looking to automate their business processes and provide unprecedented productivity. Founded in 2000 in Tampa Bay, Florida, DocuPhase specializes in automating bookkeeping processes, purchasing orders, sales orders, capturing invoices, approving payments, managing vendors, student, and employee onboarding, and other business processes.

For more information, please visit www.docuphase.com.

About LoneTree: LoneTree is a private, growth-oriented equity investment firm providing flexible financing, mergers & acquisitions, and operating support for leading companies in high-growth sectors. LoneTree invests between $10M - $50M per deal across selected sectors, including software, digital infrastructure, health IT/services, enterprise & consumer services, and financial tech/specialty finance.

For additional information, visit www.lonetreecap.com

Contact: Meghan Furtado, [email protected]

SOURCE DocuPhase
American Lung Association, Ad Council raise awareness among parents and their kids about vaping with new PSAs created by Hill Holliday

CHICAGO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Lung Association and the Ad Council today launched a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) encouraging parents to proactively talk to their kids about the dangers and health effects of vaping. The new PSAs, created pro bono by advertising agency Hill Holliday, are part of a broader campaign to raise awareness about the risks associated with youth vaping and help parents with kids aged 10-14 initiate important conversations with their kids to prevent their kids from starting.

"These new PSAs address the need for parents to educate themselves about the dangers of vaping in a way that feels relevant and timely," said Michelle Hillman, Chief Campaign Development Officer of the Ad Council. "We know that stress and peer pressure are the main motivators for kids to start vaping. With the beginning of a new school year and a host of pressures youth are facing, we're providing parents with critical resources and encouragement to have important conversations with their kids about vaping."

Rates of e-cigarette use by teens increased 73% from 2016 to 2020.[1] Currently 2.1 million kids use e-cigarettes[2] and thousands of kids start vaping every day.[3] Despite the growing number of youth who are vaping, many parents with children between ages 10-14 don't fully realize the risks associated with youth vaping. E-cigarettes contain harmful and addictive ingredients including nicotine, formaldehyde, which is known to cause cancer, and acrolein, and can also cause irreversible lung damage. Nicotine exposure during adolescence can harm the developing brain and lead to a lifetime of addiction to tobacco products. In addition, kids who use e-cigarettes are 4 times more likely to try a traditional cigarette and 3 times more likely to become addicted to nicotine.[4]

"Educational campaigns, and conversations that parents have with their pre-teens about issues like vaping are critical. We know from more than 50 years of efforts to end tobacco use that these educational programs make a difference to deter youth from using these very addictive products," said Harold Wimmer, National President and CEO for the American Lung Association. "While we are seeing historically low smoking rates, youth e-cigarette use is still unacceptably high. Collaboration, like our partnership with the Ad Council and Hill Holliday, is integral to ending the youth vaping epidemic."

Developed pro bono by creative agency Hill Holliday, the new PSAs use pop culture and viral dance video trends to connect parents and their kids as a lead-in to more serious conversations about the dangers of vaping. The spots feature dancer, social media influencer and anti-vaping activist Russell Horning, "The Backpack Kid," who gained fame after his "Flossing" dance video went viral.

"We are proud to launch this important and timely campaign, which will help protect kids' health as they head back to school," said Karen Kaplan, Chair and CEO, Hill Holliday. "We are deeply passionate about our partnership with the American Lung Association and the Ad Council; this ongoing collaboration has had a tremendous positive impact on Americans' health and continues to save lives."

"Young people don't always think about how the choices we make now can really hurt us when we get older," said the now 20-year-old Horning. "I'm proud to use my platform to encourage kids to never start vaping so they can reach their dreams without the health risks of vaping holding them back."

The campaign encourages parents to visit TalkAboutVaping.org for resources to empower parents to talk to their kids about vaping, such as a youth vaping "Get the Facts" page and Conversation Guide.

The "#DoTheVapeTalk" PSAs will appear nationwide in time and space donated by the media, across all advertising formats: broadcast, radio, digital, social, out-of-home and print. TikTok has committed to additional support of the campaign, collaborating with some of the platform's influential creators on the development of custom content, and providing significant donated media to reach parents with the campaign's critical message. Meta has also committed to providing donated media space to reach parents. Since the campaign's 2020 launch, the Lung Association and Ad Council's youth vaping prevention effort has received more than $35.4 million in donated media support across television, radio, print, out-of-home and digital media, receiving over 2.7 billion impressions.

For more information about #DoTheVapeTalk, or to access resources on talking to kids about the dangers of vaping, please visit TalkAboutVaping.org .

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Gold-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.

About the Ad Council

The Ad Council is where creativity and causes converge. The non-profit organization brings together the most creative minds in advertising, media, technology and marketing to address many of the nation's most important causes. The Ad Council has created many of the most iconic campaigns in advertising history. Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk. Smokey Bear. Love Has No Labels.

The Ad Council's innovative social good campaigns raise awareness, inspire action and save lives. To learn more, visit AdCouncil.org , follow the Ad Council's communities on Facebook and Twitter , and view the creative on YouTube .

About Hill Holliday

Hill Holliday is proud to be one of the top creative marketing agencies in the country, with over 600 employees across our network. Since 1968, Hill Holliday has built its business on winning the daily share battle for clients in the noisiest and most competitive categories. Blending communications planning, media, and technology with superior creative, the agency delivers game-changing ideas for industry leaders like BMW Motorrad, Frontier Communications, Valvoline, Johnson & Johnson, Novartis, Regeneron, and Intra-Cellular Therapies. For more about Hill Holliday's people, work, and culture, visit http://www.hhcc.com.

[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes from the Field: E-Cigarette Use Among Middle and High School Students  National Youth Tobacco Survey, United States, 2021. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. October 1, 2021; 70(39): 1387-1389.

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Notes from the Field: E-Cigarette Use Among Middle and High School Students  National Youth Tobacco Survey, United States, 2021. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. October 1, 2021; 70(39): 1387-1389.

[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Youth Tobacco Survey, 2018. Analysis by the American Lung Association Epidemiology and Statistics Unit using SPSS software.

[4] Barrington-Trimis JL, et al. E-cigarette Use and Subsequent Smoking Frequency Among Adolescents. Pediatrics, 2018; 142(6):e20180486

MEDIA CONTACT:

Ad Council

Ben Dorf

[email protected]

SOURCE American Lung Association
Bhopal, Aug 9 (UNI) The National Investigation Agencys continuing probe against the proscribed Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) has witnessed another success with the arrest, in Madhya Pradesh, of a couple of ultras owing allegiance to the terror group.

Cellular phones and watches manufactured in different countries were seized, several facts unearthed and incriminating evidence found against the duo identified as Hamidullah and Md Sahadat Hussain, state Home Minister and government spokesman Narottam Mishra told media representatives here on Tuesday.

The extremists were apprehended in this districts Intkhedi Police Station limits.

Hamidullah  who used the aliases Raju Gaji, Muffakir, Samid Ali Miyan and Talha  is the son of Tabaruk Hussain, a resident of Pachani village (Post Office Shambhupura) in Araihazar Police Station area of Narayanganj district within Bangladeshs Dhaka Division.

Hussain aka Abidullahs father is Mubarak Matubbar of Pokhira village (PO Khwajpur) in Madaripur Police Station limits of Bangladeshs Madaripur district.

Sundays action constitutes a follow-up to the nabbing, in March, of six active JMB cadres  including three illegal Bangladeshi immigrants  here.

These accused were found involved in propagating JMB ideology and motivating the youth to carry out jihad against India. The case was initially registered on March 14 by the Special Task Force and re-registered by the NIA on April 5. A total seven arrests were executed earlier. Hamidullah and Hussain are highly-radicalised individuals and involved in propagating jihad by posting hateful and incriminating material online in various groups on different social media platforms to radicalise other people. They were close associates of those arrested earlier in the instant case and were found using encrypting apps to communicate with their associates in India and Bangladesh, the NIA said in a statement.

Four militants  who were creating a remote base sleeper cell here when apprehended by the Anti-Terrorism Squad on March 13 during a night raid executed in the densely-populated Aishbagh locality  received funding from Kolkata and were planning petrol bomb attacks. State police ceaselessly probed the matter and a team left for the West Bengal capital. Every link was traced. Videos found revealed making of petrol bombs. Two more locals  who helped and funded the accused  were identified and interrogated.

On March 14, a local court remanded the foursome in 14 days police custody. They were presented before Additional Sessions Judge R Yadav. The ATS sought remand for conducting further interrogation vis-a-vis documents seized.

Jihadi literature and electronic equipment were also appropriated from Fazar Ali, Mohammad Aqeel, Jahooruddin alias Ibrahim and Fazar Junail.

A special investigation team began an inquiry and all police stations were placed on alert.

In 2005, the JMB triggered approximately 500 bombs at about 300 locations in 50 cities or towns of Bangladesh. The group was responsible for the death of two persons in 2014 in an explosion at West Bengals Bardhaman (Burdwan). Four years later, another blast took place in Bodh Gaya. In the wake of those attacks, the Centre banned the JMB in 2019 for a period of half a decade.

UNI Team-AC
Company's cloud-based, AI-powered automation platform recognized for delivering process discovery capabilities that accelerate automation success

SAN JOSE, Calif, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Automation Anywhere , a global leader in Robotic Process Automation (RPA), today announced that Everest Group, a leading research and consulting firm, has named it a Leader in Everest Group's first-ever Task Mining Products PEAK Matrix Assessment 2022.



Automation Anywhere was named a Leader based on its leading cloud-native, AI-powered process discovery solution that delivers expedited paths to process mapping, centralized sensor configuration, and other capabilities. The company acquired FortressIQ in January, as part of a strategic initiative to increase process discovery for customers as they seek to increase digital transformation.

"Automation Anywhere's task mining product strategy is focused on empowering enterprises with fact-based process insights to accelerate their intelligent automation and digital transformation journeys," said Amardeep Modi, Vice President at Everest Group. "A strong vision and supporting investments (e.g., acquisition of Fortress IQ), depth and breadth of product functionalities, high value delivered to its clients, and expansion in its task mining client base are some of the key factors that contributed to Automation Anywhere's position as a Leader in Everest Group's Task Mining Products PEAK Matrix assessment."

Demand for automation has skyrocketed as the pandemic endures and companies look for new ways to streamline business processes. As part of an organization's automation journey, process intelligence has become essential, helping companies identify, map, mine, and analyze the multi-dimensional processes that extend across hundreds of applications and hundreds of thousands of employees.



Everest Group defines task mining as "a type of software product that can capture user actions and metadata, such as keystrokes, mouse clicks, activity screenshots, and potentially other system-level activities performed together on multiple desktops to virtually reconstruct the processes and provide insights into the tasks and activities involved in executing a process." The Tasking Mining PEAK Matrix assesses the measurement of impact on the market and the ability to deliver products successfully.



"We are delivering on our promise to advance our Automation 360 platform with process discovery, intelligence, and optimization with built-in intelligence that provides fast, accurate visibility on which processes can and should be automated," said Prince Kohli, Chief Technology Officer, Automation Anywhere. "We are thrilled to be named a Leader in this inaugural report by the Everest Group."



Interact with Automation Anywhere:

Visit our website: www.automationanywhere.com

Follow us on Twitter: @AutomationAnywh

Explore with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/automation_anywhere/

Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/automation-anywhere



About Automation Anywhere

Automation Anywhere is the No. 1 cloud automation platform, delivering RPA and process intelligence solutions across all industries globally to automate end-to-end business processes for the fastest path to enterprise transformation. The company offers the world's only cloud-native platform combining RPA, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and analytics to automate repetitive tasks and build enterprise agility, freeing up humans to pivot to the next big idea, build deeper customer relationships and drive business growth. For additional information, visit www.automationanywhere.com .



Automation Anywhere and Automation 360 are registered trademarks/service marks of Automation Anywhere, Inc. in the United States and other countries.

SOURCE Automation Anywhere Inc
Amazon among companies cited for offering products that are not FDA-approved

SILVER SPRING, Md., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it issued three warning letters to companies for introducing mole and skin tag removal products into interstate commerce that are unapproved new drugs, in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). There are no FDA-approved over-the-counter drug products for the removal of moles and skin tags.

"It is the FDA's duty to protect public health from harmful products not approved for the U.S. marketplace" said Donald D. Ashley, J.D., director of the Office of Compliance in the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. "The agency's rigorous surveillance works to identify threats to public health and stop these products from reaching our communities. This includes where online retailers like Amazon are involved in the interstate sale of unapproved drug products. We will continue to work diligently to ensure that online retailers do not sell products that violate federal law."

Moles should be evaluated by a health care practitioner. Self-diagnosis and treatment of moles could lead to delayed cancer diagnosis and treatment, and even cancer progression. The FDA has issued a consumer warning noting that products marketed for removing moles and other skin lesions can cause injuries and scarring. The sale of these products risks public health and may jeopardize consumers' health when used without consulting a health care professional.

The FDA issued the warning letters to:

The mole and skin tag removal products sold by these firms have not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness or quality and require FDA approval. The introduction or delivery for introduction of these products into interstate commerce without an approved application is an additional violation of the FD&C Act.

Today's warning letters alert the companies that failure to adequately address the violations cited by the FDA may result in legal action including seizure and/or injunction. The companies have 15 days from receipt of the warning letter to respond to the agency with actions they have taken to address any violations. The FDA will continue to use all tools available to protect public health and remove fraudulent or unproven drug products from the U.S. marketplace. Warning letters are not meant to be final agency action.

The FDA encourages consumers and health care professionals to report any adverse events to the agency's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program so the agency can take action to protect the public from any unsafe products. The FDA works to protect consumers by informing about the risks and how to buy online safely.

Additional resources:

Media Contact: Audra Harrison , 301-908-6101

Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.

SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration
DUBLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Food Grade Lubricants Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2022-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global food grade lubricants market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.48% during 2022-2027.



Food grade lubricants are those oils used in industrial machines (such as conveyor belts, pumps, tanks, mixers, hoses and pipes, and chain drives) for the smooth functioning of the devices. It plays a vital role in protecting the devices from rust, corrosion, oxidation, breakdown, and heat. Furthermore, the food industry prevents health hazards in case of incidental or accidental contact with food.

In the food & beverage industry, food-safe machine lubricants are crucial. The production of food, beverages, and related products such as packaging puts the strictest requirements on lubricants used in the manufacturing process, says Giles Cutter, Lubritech Divisional Manager, FUCHS Lubricants South Africa.



Food grade lubricants are more regulated than other lubricating oils because they are highly used in the food & beverage industry and cosmetic and medicine processing plants. These products are highly prone to microbial contamination, reducing their nutritional value. If the safety standards are not met during processing, storage, and packaging, it can lead to microbial contamination. Henceforth, several regulatory bodies such as US FDA, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), and ISO 21469 have set the regulations and standards to specify the hygiene requirement for the formulation, manufacturing, and handling of lubricants. Thus, the regulatory landscape is a significant hindrance to scaling up operations by small and medium enterprises. But at the same time, it is driving the market because these standards and regulations ensure the customer regarding the product's safety, quality, and hygiene.

MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS

Rising Demand for Packaged and Processed Food

The increasing urbanization, changing lifestyles, a time constraint for preparing food, expanding population, and the growing purchasing power, especially in the economies of China and India, is stimulating the demand for processed and packaged food worldwide. According to the study conducted by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), India, and Grant Thornton, UK, by 2024, India's food processing sector is likely to attract USD 33 billion investment as the total food production in India is estimated to be double by 2024. This growth is creating a demand for food-grade oils. The food grade oils are primarily used in the food processing machines to reduce the friction & heat between mechanical components, prevent the breakdown of devices, and, most importantly, prevent the food from entering contaminated. However, the food grade lubricants market is highly fragmented, and product differentiation is essential, with several brands competing for attention.



Increasing Food Grade Regulation

The increasing concern for reducing foodborne illness and promoting hygiene factors in food processing facilities positively impacts the food grade lubricants market growth. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) are the regulatory bodies that monitor the use of components in food grade lubricants to mitigate the risk of cross-contamination from both biological agents such as a microorganism, and chemical agents, such as toxins, mutagens, or carcinogens, to avoid foodborne disease, and ensures customers about the safety of the food product.



MARKET SEGMENTATION OVERVIEW



Segmentation by Base Oil

Mineral

Synthetic

Bio-Based

Segmentation by Grade

H1

H2

H3

Segmentation by Application

Food

Pharmaceutical

Cosmetic

Beverage

Others

Segmentation by Region

COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS

The competitive scenario in the global food grade lubricants market is currently intensifying. The rapidly changing technological environment and sustainability scenario can adversely affect vendors as customers expect continual innovations and upgrades. The market is fragmented, with several players providing products with high functionality.



Key Vendors

Exxon Mobil Corporation

TotalEnergies

FUCHS

Petro Canada Lubricants

Castrol

Other Prominent Vendors

Valvoline Inc.

Kluber Lubrication

Metalube

Renewable lubricants

Cortec Corporation

Interflon

Repsol

Haynes Lubricants

DuBois Chemicals

Lubriplate Lubricants Company

Carl Bechem Lubricant India Private Limited

Mosil Lubricants

Petrelplus Inc.

Vinayak Oil

Condat

Addinol

Key Topics Covered:



1 Research Methodology



2 Research Objectives



3 Research Process



4 Scope & Coverage



5 Report Assumptions & Caveats



6 Abstract



7 Market at a Glance



9 Market Opportunities & Trends



10 Market Growth Enablers



11 Market Restraints

12 Market Landscape



13 Base Oil



14 Grade



15 Application



16 Geography



17 North America



18 Latin America



19 Middle East & Africa



20 Europe



21 Apac



22 Competitive Landscape



23 Key Company Profiles



24 Other Prominent Vendors



25 Report Summary



26 Quantitative Summary



27 Geography



28 Appendix

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/7qw32j

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

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Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
San Diego-Based Fresh Clean Tees Rebrands to Fresh Clean Threads as Product Offerings Continue to Expand; Brand Strengthens its Commitment to Quality and Customers

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading direct-to-consumer men's apparel brand, Fresh Clean Tees, today announced their official name change to Fresh Clean Threads, along with debuting their new logo and rebranded website. Since its launch as a tee subscription program in 2015, the rapidly growing brand has applied its quality, size inclusivity and fit-first approach to henleys, polos, pullovers, socks and more. With the debut of the Fresh Clean Threads name, the brand's refreshed identity will now more closely align with its robust and continually evolving product line.

"We've worked hard to expand our product line and want our branding to reflect that," said Matthew Parvis, co-founder and CEO of Fresh Clean Threads. "We're proud of our growth and that we can continue to bring top-of-the-line apparel to our customers at affordable prices. We're looking forward to what's to come, and this name change is just the beginning."

The outstanding quality Fresh Clean Threads consumers have grown accustomed to comes from the belief that every thread counts. Sustained commitment to using the highest quality threads, fabrics and construction ensures the durability that Fresh Clean Threads is known for. The excellence Fresh Clean Tees has offered for nearly eight years will continue as Fresh Clean Threads and will be held as the standard for future apparel pieces.

"As we continue to expand our offerings and work to bring more quality and affordable products to our loyal customers, an all-encompassing name made sense for the current state and future growth of the brand" said Melissa Parvis, co-founder and president of Fresh Clean Threads. "We're grateful we've been able to offer more than just tees and are excited to continue to roll out new items. This new name underscores our growth and where we are headed."

While recognizing the importance of every single thread, Fresh Clean Threads also recognizes the impact of every step in the production process. The company is committed to reducing its carbon impact and has implemented company-wide sustainability initiatives, including transitioning to 100% recyclable packaging and removing single-use plastic elements. Every factory in the Fresh Clean Threads supply chain is certified by Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP), guaranteeing the work environment is socially and ethically responsible. As part of the brand's continued goal to replace their clothing's synthetics with organic and sustainable fabrics by 2025, Fresh Clean Threads launched its Eco Fresh Tee earlier this year.

The rebrand will not impact the retailer's commitment to helping men look good and feel good without spending a fortune. The complete range of Fresh Clean Threads apparel is available with tees starting at prices as low as $19. The entire collection is available for purchase exclusively on FreshCleanThreads.com. For more information on Fresh Clean Threads and its latest products, please visit FreshCleanThreads.com.

About Fresh Clean Threads

Fresh Clean Threads is a direct-to-consumer men's clothing company launched in 2015 by husband-and-wife duo Matthew and Melissa Parvis that focuses on creating quality, comfortable, convenient, and affordable men's basics. With a mission to help men look good and feel great without spending a fortune, Fresh Clean Threads empowers men to feel confident in how they dress, so they can explore, conquer and live life to the fullest. The brand offers various styles of tees, tanks, long sleeves, outerwear, and socks with individual purchases as well as subscription-based options. With a company pillar rooted in sustainability, Fresh Clean Threads is consistently assessing its business practices, manufacturing processes and community relations to ensure they are delivering on the promise to be a solution to the current sustainability problem within the fashion industry. More information is available at FreshCleanThreads.com.

SOURCE Fresh Clean Threads
Global Hair Color Market - Market Dynamics

Major Driver - The key factor driving growth in the global hair color market is the innovation in product formulation and formats. Hair color is available in pre-measured sachets that are convenient to use. The market is driven by innovations in product formulation, composition, and the format through which it is sold in the market. The formulation of hair color is done in two stages. The first stage deals with the development of the product base and the second stage involved the formulation of the desired shade. During the process of the formulation, special attention needs to be given to factors such as dye stability, color wearability on hair, light fading, and the rheology of the product. The innovation is brought about in the shades of the finished product. Presently, most hair color manufacturers produce hair colors that help brighten the hair, contributing to the popularity of the product among consumers. This is followed by hair color variants that claim to be long-lasting, easy to use, and herbal. These innovations have led to an increase in customer acquisition, product visibility, and adoption rate, driving the price quotient of the market.

Hair color is available in pre-measured sachets that are convenient to use. The market is driven by innovations in product formulation, composition, and the format through which it is sold in the market. The formulation of hair color is done in two stages. The first stage deals with the development of the product base and the second stage involved the formulation of the desired shade. During the process of the formulation, special attention needs to be given to factors such as dye stability, color wearability on hair, light fading, and the rheology of the product. The innovation is brought about in the shades of the finished product. Presently, most hair color manufacturers produce hair colors that help brighten the hair, contributing to the popularity of the product among consumers. This is followed by hair color variants that claim to be long-lasting, easy to use, and herbal. These innovations have led to an increase in customer acquisition, product visibility, and adoption rate, driving the price quotient of the market. Major Challenges - The limited consumer pool for novelty and premium hair colors in developing countries will be a major challenge for the global hair color market during the forecast period. The global hair color market is flourishing in the developed markets of North America and Europe . This is because a significant proportion of premium and mass segments of end customers are available in this segment. Hence, these markets have a balanced demand for hair colors from different price brackets. Unlike countries in North America and Europe , APAC and MEA do not have an equal distribution of consumer segments. The proportion of mass segment customers in these regions is higher than that of the end-end customers. This results in significant sales of low-priced hair colors in the markets of these regions. However, the sale of premium hair colors and novelty hair colors in APAC and MEA is low due to the low presence of the segment. The low sale of premium hair colors leads to a small revenue turnover. Thus, the value of revenue generated from these regions is low.

To know more about the market dynamics along with the latest trends - Click Now!

Global Hair Color Market - Vendor Analysis

The global hair color market is fragmented and the vendors are deploying growth strategies such as focusing on product innovations by bringing about the concept of product differentiation and new product developments to compete in the market. The hair color market report provides complete insights on key vendors including Amway Corp., Avon, Cadiveu Professional, Chatters Ltd. Partnership, Coty Inc., The Estee Lauder Co. Inc., Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Henkel AG and Co. KGaA, Hoyu Co. Ltd., John Paul Mitchell Systems, Kao Corp., LOreal SA, Madison Reed Inc., Moroccanoil Inc., NATULIQUE Ltd., NATURIGIN, Revlon Inc., Shiseido Co.Ltd., Surya Brasil, Tints of Nature, Tish and Snookys NYC Inc., and Unilever PLC.

Amway Corp. - The company offers color CREATION permanent hair color which has been formulated with natural extracts and conditioners to create a unique blend of ingredients for protecting the scalp and hair.

The company offers color CREATION permanent hair color which has been formulated with natural extracts and conditioners to create a unique blend of ingredients for protecting the scalp and hair. To know about all vendor offerings - Grab a FREE Sample Now!

Global Hair Color Market - Segmentation Analysis

By Product, the market is classified into Permanent, Semi-permanent, Temporary, and Highlights and bleach

By End Users, the market is classified into Women, Men, and Unisex

By Geography, the market is classified as Europe , North America , APAC, South America , the Middle East , and Africa.

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The competitive scenario provided in the Global Hair Color Market report analyzes, evaluates, and positions companies based on various performance indicators. Some of the factors considered for this analysis include the financial performance of companies over the past few years, growth strategies, product innovations, new product launches, investments, growth in market share, etc.Don't wait, Make a strategic approach & boost your business goals with our Global Hair Color Market Forecast Report - Buy Now!

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share is expected to increase to in 2026 from 2021, at a CAGR of 10.49%. The haircare market share in Africa is expected to increase to USD 994.06 million from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 6.35%.

Global Hair Color Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 8.21% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 18.09 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 7.66 Regional analysis Europe, North America, APAC, South America, the Middle East, and Africa Performing market contribution Europe at 30% Key consumer countries US, Japan, China, UK, and Brazil Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Amway Corp., Avon, Cadiveu Professional, Chatters Ltd. Partnership, Coty Inc., The Estee Lauder Co. Inc., Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Co. Ltd., Henkel AG and Co. KGaA, Hoyu Co. Ltd., John Paul Mitchell Systems, Kao Corp., LOreal SA, Madison Reed Inc., Moroccanoil Inc., NATULIQUE Ltd., NATURIGIN, Revlon Inc., Shiseido Co.Ltd., Surya Brasil, Tints of Nature, Tish and Snookys NYC Inc., and Unilever PLC Market Dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID 19 impact and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for forecast period, Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

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Table of Content

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Market Overview

Exhibit 01: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Overview



Exhibit 02: Executive Summary  Data Table on Market Overview



Exhibit 03: Executive Summary  Chart on Global Market Characteristics



Exhibit 04: Executive Summary  Chart on Market by Geography



Exhibit 05: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by Product



Exhibit 06: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by End-user



Exhibit 07: Executive Summary  Chart on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 08: Executive Summary  Data Table on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 09: Executive Summary  Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

2 Market Landscape

2.1 Market ecosystem

Exhibit 10: Parent market



Exhibit 11: Market Characteristics

3 Market Sizing

3.1 Market definition

Exhibit 12: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition

3.2 Market segment analysis

Exhibit 13: Market segments

3.3 Market size 2021

3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2021-2026

Exhibit 14: Chart on Global - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 15: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 16: Chart on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 17: Data Table on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

4 Five Forces Analysis

4.1 Five forces summary

Exhibit 18: Five forces analysis - Comparison between 2021 and 2026

4.2 Bargaining power of buyers

Exhibit 19: Chart on the Bargaining power of buyers  Impact of key factors 2021 and 2026

4.3 Bargaining power of suppliers

Exhibit 20: Bargaining power of suppliers  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.4 Threat of new entrants

Exhibit 21: Threat of new entrants  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.5 Threat of substitutes

Exhibit 22: Threat of substitutes  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.6 Threat of rivalry

Exhibit 23: Threat of rivalry  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.7 Market condition

Exhibit 24: Chart on Market condition - Five forces 2021 and 2026

5 Market Segmentation by Product

5.1 Market segments

Exhibit 25: Chart on Product - Market share 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 26: Data Table on Product - Market share 2021-2026 (%)

5.2 Comparison by Product

Exhibit 27: Chart on Comparison by Product



Exhibit 28: Data Table on Comparison by Product

5.3 Permanent - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 29: Chart on Permanent - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 30: Data Table on Permanent - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 31: Chart on Permanent - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 32: Data Table on Permanent - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.4 Semi-permanent - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 33: Chart on Semi-permanent - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 34: Data Table on Semi-permanent - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 35: Chart on Semi-permanent - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 36: Data Table on Semi-permanent - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.5 Temporary - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 37: Chart on Temporary - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 38: Data Table on Temporary - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 39: Chart on Temporary - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 40: Data Table on Temporary - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.6 Highlights and bleach - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 41: Chart on Highlights and bleach - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 42: Data Table on Highlights and bleach - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 43: Chart on Highlights and bleach - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 44: Data Table on Highlights and bleach - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.7 Market opportunity by Product

Exhibit 45: Market opportunity by Product ($ million)

6 Market Segmentation by End-user

6.1 Market segments

Exhibit 46: Chart on End-user - Market share 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 47: Data Table on End-user - Market share 2021-2026 (%)

6.2 Comparison by End-user

Exhibit 48: Chart on Comparison by End-user



Exhibit 49: Data Table on Comparison by End-user

6.3 Women - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 50: Chart on Women - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 51: Data Table on Women - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 52: Chart on Women - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 53: Data Table on Women - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

6.4 Men - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 54: Chart on Men - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 55: Data Table on Men - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 56: Chart on Men - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 57: Data Table on Men - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

6.5 Unisex - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 58: Chart on Unisex - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 59: Data Table on Unisex - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 60: Chart on Unisex - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 61: Data Table on Unisex - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

6.6 Market opportunity by End-user

Exhibit 62: Market opportunity by End-user ($ million)

7 Customer Landscape

7.1 Customer landscape overview

Exhibit 63: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria

8 Geographic Landscape

8.1 Geographic segmentation

Exhibit 64: Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 65: Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%)

8.2 Geographic comparison

Exhibit 66: Chart on Geographic comparison



Exhibit 67: Data Table on Geographic comparison

8.3 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 68: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 69: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 70: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 71: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.4 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 72: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 73: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 74: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 75: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 76: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 77: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 78: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 79: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 80: Chart of South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 81: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 82: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 83: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.7 The Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 84: Chart on the Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 85: Data Table on the Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 86: Chart on the Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

and - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 87: Data Table on the Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 88: Chart on the US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 89: Data Table on the US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 90: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 91: Data Table on the US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.9 Brazil - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 92: Chart on Brazil - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 93: Data Table on Brazil - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 94: Chart on Brazil - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 95: Data Table on Brazil - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.10 Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 96: Chart on Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 97: Data Table on Japan - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 98: Chart on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 99: Data Table on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.11 UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 100: Chart on the UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 101: Data Table on the UK - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 102: Chart on the UK - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 103: Data Table on the UK - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.12 China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 104: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 105: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 106: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 107: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

8.13 Market opportunity by geography

Exhibit 108: Market opportunity by geography ($ million)

9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

9.1 Market drivers

9.2 Market challenges

9.3 Impact of drivers and challenges

Exhibit 109: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2021 and 2026

9.4 Market trends

10 Vendor Landscape

10.1 Overview

10.2 Vendor landscape

Exhibit 110: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation

10.3 Landscape disruption

Exhibit 111: Overview on factors of disruption

10.4 Industry risks

Exhibit 112: Impact of key risks on business

11 Vendor Analysis

11.1 Vendors covered

Exhibit 113: Vendors covered

11.2 Market positioning of vendors

Exhibit 114: Matrix on vendor position and classification

11.3 Amway Corp.

Exhibit 115: Amway Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 116: Amway Corp. - Product / Service



Exhibit 117: Amway Corp. - Key offerings

11.4 Chatters Ltd. Partnership

Exhibit 118: Chatters Ltd. Partnership - Overview



Exhibit 119: Chatters Ltd. Partnership - Product / Service



Exhibit 120: Chatters Ltd. Partnership - Key offerings

11.5 Coty Inc.

Exhibit 121: Coty Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 122: Coty Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 123: Coty Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 124: Coty Inc. - Segment focus

11.6 The Estee Lauder Co. Inc.

Exhibit 125: The Estee Lauder Co. Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 126: The Estee Lauder Co. Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 127: The Estee Lauder Co. Inc. - Key news



Exhibit 128: The Estee Lauder Co. Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 129: The Estee Lauder Co. Inc. - Segment focus

11.7 Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Co. Ltd.

Exhibit 130: Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 131: Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 132: Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 133: Godrej and Boyce Manufacturing Co. Ltd. - Segment focus

11.8 Henkel AG and Co. KGaA

Exhibit 134: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Overview



Exhibit 135: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Business segments



Exhibit 136: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Key news



Exhibit 137: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Key offerings



Exhibit 138: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Segment focus

11.9 John Paul Mitchell Systems

Exhibit 139: John Paul Mitchell Systems - Overview



Exhibit 140: John Paul Mitchell Systems - Product / Service



Exhibit 141: John Paul Mitchell Systems - Key offerings

11.10 Kao Corp.

Exhibit 142: Kao Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 143: Kao Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 144: Kao Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 145: Kao Corp. - Segment focus

11.11 LOreal SA

Exhibit 146: LOreal SA - Overview



Exhibit 147: LOreal SA - Business segments



Exhibit 148: LOreal SA - Key news



Exhibit 149: LOreal SA - Key offerings



Exhibit 150: LOreal SA - Segment focus

11.12 Madison Reed Inc.

Exhibit 151: Madison Reed Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 152: Madison Reed Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 153: Madison Reed Inc. - Key offerings

12 Appendix

12.1 Scope of the report

12.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

Exhibit 154: Inclusions checklist



Exhibit 155: Exclusions checklist

12.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

Exhibit 156: Currency conversion rates for US$

12.4 Research methodology

Exhibit 157: Research methodology



Exhibit 158: Validation techniques employed for market sizing



Exhibit 159: Information sources

12.5 List of abbreviations

Exhibit 160: List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
Materials and Passenger Management Services Procurement report explains key category management objectives that should form the base for sourcing strategy, including:

Top-line growth

Scalability of inputs

Green initiatives

Category innovations

Supply base rationalization

Demand forecasting and governance

Minimalization of ad hoc purchases

Adherence to regulatory nuances

Cost savings

Customer retention

Reduction of TCO

Supply assurance

www.spendedge.com/report/materials-and-passenger-management-services-sourcing-and-procurement-intelligence-report

This report evaluates suppliers based on provision for applicable insurance policy, real-time analysis, pipeline software solutions, and conduct pipeline surveys. In addition, suppliers are also shortlisted based on business needs, technical specifications, operational requirements, security compliance, regulatory mandates, legal requirements, quality control, change management procedures, pricing models, penalty clauses, SLA nuances, acceptance criteria, and evaluation criteria.

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Table of Content

Executive Summary

Market Insights

Category Pricing Insights

Cost-saving Opportunities

Best Practices

Category Ecosystem

Category Management Strategy

Category Management Enablers

Suppliers Selection

Suppliers under Coverage

US Market Insights

Category scope

About SpendEdge:

SpendEdge shares your passion for driving sourcing and procurement excellence. We are the preferred procurement market intelligence partner for 120+ Fortune 500 firms and other leading companies across numerous industries. Our strength lies in delivering robust, real-time procurement market intelligence reports and solutions.

Contact

SpendEdge

Anirban Choudhury

Marketing Manager

Ph No: +1 (872) 206-9340

https://www.spendedge.com/contact-us

SOURCE SpendEdge
THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Huntsman Corporation (NYSE: HUN) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Textile Effects division to Archroma, a portfolio company of SK Capital Partners. The total enterprise value of the transaction is approximately $718 million, which includes the assumption of approximately $125 million in net underfunded pension liabilities as of December 31, 2021. The acquisition is being partially funded with preferred equity, of which Huntsman is taking up to $80 million, an amount SK Capital Partners will seek to syndicate prior to the transaction closing.

Over the last twelve months ending June 30, 2022, the Textile Effects division reported sales of $772 million and adjusted EBITDA of $94 million. Huntsman anticipates cash taxes on the transaction of approximately $50 million. Huntsman intends to report Textile Effects as discontinued operations beginning in the third quarter of 2022. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the first half of 2023.

Peter Huntsman, Chairman, President, and CEO commented:

"Over the past seven months, we have conducted a comprehensive strategic review of our Textile Effects division, including detailed discussions with a wide range of relevant parties. After evaluating several different options and thoroughly reviewing prospective offers for the business, our Board of Directors decided that SK Capital would be a better owner of the business over the long-term than Huntsman and that the value they offered was in the best interests of our shareholders. After closing, Textile Effects will combine with SK Capital's Archroma business to create a world leader in textile chemicals and dyes, with a leadership in sustainability and innovation.

"We expect the cash proceeds from this divestiture to be deployed in-line with our current balanced capital allocation program which includes strategic investments and acquisitions to further strengthen our core businesses as well as returning cash to shareholders through both our dividend and share repurchase program."

BofA Securities is serving as Huntsman's financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as its legal advisor.

About Huntsman:

Huntsman Corporation is a publicly traded global manufacturer and marketer of differentiated and specialty chemicals with 2021 revenues of approximately $8 billion. Our chemical products number in the thousands and are sold worldwide to manufacturers serving a broad and diverse range of consumer and industrial end markets. We operate more than 70 manufacturing, R&D and operations facilities in approximately 30 countries and employ approximately 9,000 associates within our four distinct business divisions. For more information about Huntsman, please visit the company's website at www.huntsman.com.

Social Media:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/Huntsman_Corp

Facebook: www.facebook.com/huntsmancorp

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/huntsman

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain information in this release constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements are based on management's current beliefs and expectations. The forward-looking statements in this release are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances and involve risks and uncertainties that may affect the company's operations, markets, products, services, prices and other factors as discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Huntsman companies' filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Significant risks and uncertainties may relate to, but are not limited to, volatile global economic conditions, cyclical and volatile product markets, disruptions in production at manufacturing facilities, reorganization or restructuring of Huntsman's operations, including any delay of, or other negative developments affecting the ability to implement cost reductions, timing of proposed transactions, and manufacturing optimization improvements in Huntsman businesses and realize anticipated cost savings, and other financial, economic, competitive, environmental, political, legal, regulatory and technological factors. The company assumes no obligation to provide revisions to any forward-looking statements should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by applicable laws.

SOURCE Huntsman Corporation
IRVINE, Calif., August 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Established by XR leaders in industry and government, the International Mixed Reality Standards Association (IMRSA) is now making its enterprise standards free and accessible to all businesses and individuals implementing Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR) and Virtual Reality (VR). Membership is free at https://intlmrsa.com/contact-us/. Please join and register for the Welcome to IMRSA: The Public Debut Webinar on Wednesday August 17.

The mission of IMRSA is to establish and share technical standards for Extended Reality. A grassroots organization established in 2014 by early adopters, IMRSA seeks to help businesses implement XR faster, more cost effectively, and with reduced risk. IMRSA standards are based on real-world implementations of XR in enterprise.

IMRSA standards address the XR project life cycle, from acquisition to production, and within the context of Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation. Advisory Board members include the United States Coast Guard, Lockheed Martin, Arctos, AVATAR Partners, Vertice Medtech Group and simpleAR.

Who is IMRSA for?

IMRSA is for businesses implementing XR, government agencies adopting XR, educational institutions, software engineering firms, digital transformation & XR consulting companies, and industry standards associations.

Supported Industries

IMRSA supports aerospace, automotive, construction, education, government & public sector, healthcare, manufacturing, military & defense, energy, technology, and transportation.

Webinar: Welcome to IMRSA - The Public Debut

Join us on August 17, 2022, at 12:00PM PST for the Public Debut Webinar, where we will be covering the following:

Advantages of Membership

The IMRSA Functionality Matrix

Free IMRSA Sample Project

The XR Spectrum: What You Need to Know

The Benefits of IMRSA Compliance

To register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7970917666831921676

To become an IMRSA member: https://intlmrsa.com/contact-us/

For more information contact [email protected]

SOURCE International Mixed Reality Standards Association
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Juan Monteverde, founder and managing partner of the class action firm Monteverde & Associates PC (the "M&A Class Action Firm"), a national securities firm rated Top 50 in the 2018-2021 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report and headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City, is investigating Avalara, Inc. (AVLR), relating to its proposed acquisition by Vista Equity Partners. Under the terms of the agreement, AVLR shareholders are expected to receive $93.50 in cash per share they own. Click here for more information: https://www.monteverdelaw.com/case/avalara-inc. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.

About Monteverde & Associates PC

We are a national class action securities litigation law firm that has recovered millions of dollars and is committed to protecting shareholders from corporate wrongdoing. We were listed in the Top 50 in the 2018-2021 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. Our lawyers have significant experience litigating Mergers & Acquisitions and Securities Class Actions. Mr. Monteverde is recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Securities Litigation in 2013, 2017-2019, an award given to less than 2.5% of attorneys in a particular field. He has also been selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2017-2021 Top Rated Lawyer. Our firm's recent successes include changing the law in a significant victory that lowered the standard of liability under Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act in the Ninth Circuit. Thereafter, our firm successfully preserved this victory by obtaining dismissal of a writ of certiorari as improvidently granted at the United States Supreme Court. Emulex Corp. v. Varjabedian, 139 S. Ct. 1407 (2019). Also, in 2019 we recovered or secured six cash common funds for shareholders in mergers & acquisitions class action cases.

If you own common stock in AVLR and wish to obtain additional information and protect your investments free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan E. Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at [email protected] or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:

Juan E. Monteverde, Esq.

MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC

The Empire State Building

350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4405

New York, NY 10118

United States of America

[email protected]

Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2022 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC ( www.monteverdelaw.com ). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

SOURCE Monteverde & Associates PC
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Juan Monteverde, founder and managing partner of the class action firm Monteverde & Associates PC (the "M&A Class Action Firm"), a national securities firm rated Top 50 in the 2018-2021 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report and headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City, is investigating Cowen Inc. (COWN), relating to its proposed acquisition by TD Bank Group. Under the terms of the merger, COWN shareholders are expected to receive $39.00 in cash per share they own. Click here for more information: https://www.monteverdelaw.com/case/cowen-inc. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.



About Monteverde & Associates PC

We are a national class action securities litigation law firm that has recovered millions of dollars and is committed to protecting shareholders from corporate wrongdoing. We were listed in the Top 50 in the 2018-2021 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. Our lawyers have significant experience litigating Mergers & Acquisitions and Securities Class Actions. Mr. Monteverde is recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Securities Litigation in 2013, 2017-2019, an award given to less than 2.5% of attorneys in a particular field. He has also been selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2017-2021 Top Rated Lawyer. Our firm's recent successes include changing the law in a significant victory that lowered the standard of liability under Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act in the Ninth Circuit. Thereafter, our firm successfully preserved this victory by obtaining dismissal of a writ of certiorari as improvidently granted at the United States Supreme Court. Emulex Corp. v. Varjabedian, 139 S. Ct. 1407 (2019). Also, in 2019 we recovered or secured six cash common funds for shareholders in mergers & acquisitions class action cases.

If you own common stock in COWN and wish to obtain additional information and protect your investments free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan E. Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at [email protected] or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:

Juan E. Monteverde, Esq.

MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC

The Empire State Building

350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4405

New York, NY 10118

United States of America

[email protected]

Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2022 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC ( www.monteverdelaw.com ). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

SOURCE Monteverde & Associates PC
Pelosi says China will not be allowed to isolate Taiwan

Washington, Aug 9 (UNI) The United States will not allow China to isolate Taiwan, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told NBC News.

"China will not be allowed to isolate Taiwan," Pelosi said during an interview regarding her controversial trip to the self-governed island on August 2-3 as part of her Indo-Pacific trip.

She added that China may get in the way of Taiwan joining international organizations like the WHO, but it would not be allowed to say who can visit Taiwan.
DUBLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Latin America Data Center Storage Market - Industry Analysis and Forecast 2022-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Latin America data center storage market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.94% from 2022 to 2027.

The data center storage market comprises several products such as hard disk drives, solid-state drives, storage networking, and other infrastructure. This infrastructure is critical for effective data center storage.

The Latin American data center market has witnessed strong growth over the last five years. Especially after the outbreak of COVID-19, the demand for cloud and colocation services has skyrocketed in the market. In 2021, Brazil continued to dominate the data center storage space, whereas Mexico and Chile were upcoming destinations for storage spending in Latin America.

The market is also dominated by expansion by global and local cloud service providers across the region. In addition, the demand is driven by government digitalization initiatives to support the growing consumption of online content by consumers in the region.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

The Latin American data center storage market is driven by increasing digitalization, accelerated data center investments, especially by cloud service providers, and the adoption of advanced storage technology, like NVMe and software-defined storage.

Cloud service providers are the main contributors to Latin America's data center storage market. Expanding cloud presence through establishing multiple cloud regions across countries like Brazil , Mexico , Chile , Colombia , and Argentina will drive high-performance storage adoption in the market.

data center storage market. Expanding cloud presence through establishing multiple cloud regions across countries like , , , , and will drive high-performance storage adoption in the market. In 2021, all-flash and hybrid storage systems contributed to around 65% of the market revenue, whereas traditional HDD-based systems dominated in terms of capacity

The contribution to the storage spending by enterprises across other countries is mostly restricted to on-premises deployment. The leading countries have witnessed strong growth in data center outsourcing services, especially colocation and managed services.

Most investments will come from telecommunication service providers across several countries in Latin America , as they continue to invest in improving connectivity and offering IT services to end-users.

, as they continue to invest in improving connectivity and offering IT services to end-users. Edge data center deployments and the establishment of cloud regions at the edge by hyperscale operators will significantly boost the market growth.

SEGMENTAL ANALYSIS

Storage architecture/topology, Network Attached Storage (NAS) systems dominate the market adoption, followed by Storage Area Networking (SAN) and Direct Attached Systems (DAS).

Adopting technologies such as big data and IoT via digitalization initiatives by local enterprises will boost the procurement of all-flash and hybrid array systems.

In Latin America , cloud, IT, and telecom segments are expected to witness the fastest growth in terms of data center storage, owing to factors such as the adoption of cloud by enterprises, development of edge data centers due to 5G deployments, and initiatives such as the pay-as-you-go model for cloud storage.

KEY MARKET TRENDS

Increasing Innovation in Data Center Storage

Innovations in storage media expected to impact the Latin American storage market include adopting DNA and holographic storage.

Tape storage is also returning to the storage market, with companies such as Quantum (LTO-9, LTO-8, and LTO-7 tape drives) and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (LTO Ultrium) offering tape storage in the market.

ADOPTION OF SOFTWARE-DEFINED STORAGE

Software-defined storage is expected to increasingly be used in data centers over the next few years, mainly due to over 80% of the data generated is unstructured, which makes it more difficult to store in a traditional storage system.

Though the use cases of software-defined storage are currently minimal in the Latin American market, the adoption will grow, along with hyper-converged platforms/rack-level architecture being adopted, even in on-premise deployments in Latin America .

GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS

Brazil contributed around 40% to storage spending in 2021. It is expected that Mexico and Chile will flourish during 2022-2023, following Colombia and Argentina during 2024-2026.

contributed around 40% to storage spending in 2021. It is expected that and will flourish during 2022-2023, following and during 2024-2026. Around 25% of large enterprises in Brazil have adopted AI and machine learning technologies, contributing to the strong growth of high-performance storage systems in the market.

have adopted AI and machine learning technologies, contributing to the strong growth of high-performance storage systems in the market. In other Latin American countries, currently, there is a meager presence of third-party data center services, which is expected to grow via investments by technological firms and cloud service providers, further contributing to the storage market growth.

VENDOR ANALYSIS

In Latin America , the data center storage market is very competitive, especially with the advent of ODM infrastructure being procured by hyperscale operators for their storage needs.

, the data center storage market is very competitive, especially with the advent of ODM infrastructure being procured by hyperscale operators for their storage needs. The major procurement of storage infrastructure in Latin America is being carried out by cloud service providers involved in rapid expansions across the region with additional cloud regions. These operators are involved in the procurement of storage systems, ranging from low to high-performance storage solutions.

is being carried out by cloud service providers involved in rapid expansions across the region with additional cloud regions. These operators are involved in the procurement of storage systems, ranging from low to high-performance storage solutions. Storage infrastructure vendors such as Huawei, Fujitsu, IBM, HPE, NetApp, Pure Storage, and Dell Technologies have a strong presence in the region, either directly or through reseller/distribution partners.

Prominent Vendors

Dell Technologies

Fujitsu

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Hitachi Vantara

Huawei

IBM

Intel

Kingston Technology

Lenovo

NEC

NetApp

Oracle

Pure Storage

Samsung Electronics

Seagate Technology

Solidigm

Toshiba

Western Digital

Wistron (WIWYNN)

Key Topics Covered:

1 Research Methodology

2 Research Objectives

3 Research Process

4 Scope & Coverage

4.1 Market Definition

4.2 Base Year

4.3 Scope of the Study

5 Report Assumptions & Caveats

5.1 Key Caveats

5.2 Currency Conversion

5.3 Market Derivation

6 Market at a Glance

7 Premium Insights

8 Market Opportunities & Trends

8.1 5G & Edge Data Center Deployments

8.2 Adoption of NVME Storage

8.3 Adoption of Software-Defined Storage

8.4 Adoption of Tape Storage

8.5 Innovations in Storage Media

9 Market Growth Enablers

9.1 Impact of Covid-19

9.2 IoT and Big Data Processing

9.3 Growing Deployment of Flash Storage

9.4 Increasing Adoption of Ai & Ml Workloads

9.5 Cloud Adoption Dominating Storage Spending

9.6 Increasing Colocation Data Center Investments Across the Region

10 Market Restraints

10.1 Supply Shortages

10.2 Lack of a Skilled Workforce

10.3 Cybersecurity Concerns

11 Market Landscape

11.1 Market Overview

11.2 Market Size & Forecast

11.3 Five Forces Analysis

12 Storage Architecture

12.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

12.2 Nas

12.3 San

12.4 Das

13 System

13.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

13.2 Traditional Storage

13.3 All-Flash Storage

13.4 Hybrid Storage

14 Industry

14.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

14.2 Bfsi

14.3 Government

14.4 Cloud/It

14.5 Others

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/hrxxqy

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

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SOURCE Research and Markets
BEIJING, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Haitai Solar, a leading new energy solutions and solar module provider, today announced that the Company has completed the process of its initial public offering and started trading on the Beijing Stock Exchange under the stock code 835985 on August 8, 2022.

Haitai Solar's brand-new slogan

Haitai Solar's debut on the Beijing bourse is a launchpad from which the company is able to further cement its leadership in the booming Renewable Energy Sector and raise funds for its key investment projects down the pipeline. The proceeds will go toward supporting the R&D and mass production of Haitai Solar's 2GW HJT module and 1GW module projects, as well as expanding its research center, as part of the Company's plan to boost its innovation and manufacturing capacity.

"We are glad to witness Haitai Solar being successfully listed on the Beijing Stock Exchange, which marks a significant milestone as we strive to build the Company into a new energy powerhouse. The new capital injection, coupled with the Haitai Solar's rising profile on the global stage and rapidly growing scale, will greatly sharpen our competitive edges, and go a long way to securing its leading position in the industry," said Wang Yong, Chairman of Haitai Solar.

"Looking forward, we are confident in Haitai Solar's ability to achieve sustainable growth in the long run through the strategy that zeros in on production expansion, quality improvement and technological innovation," he added.

The company also released a brand-new slogan 'Single or Infinite? Double = More!'. The combination of two contrasting words "Single" and "Infinite" perfectly explains how the monofacial module is able to deliver infinite possibilities while retaining the utmost in quality. The Taihe Series modules fully and accurately describe the idea of "More", that is, the products are endowed with more cutting-edge technologies, can achieve higher power output and can be applied to more scenarios, and, by doing so, deliver more added value to clients. With the new tagline, Haitai Solar is committed to delivering more value to its shareholders, existing and future partners, and helping the world to achieve the net-zero emission targets as a driver of the global energy transition.

For more information, please visit: https://www.haitai-solar.com/

About Haitai Solar

Haitai Solar is a high-tech enterprise focused on Renewable Energy with five Business Divisions: Photovoltaic modules, Utility Power Plant, Mounting System, Energy Storage, and Hydrogen Energy. Since its inception in 2006, it has been committed to systematically providing more value to global customers and partners. Haitai Solar has been recognized as Tier 1 Module Manufacturer by BNEF with total global production capacity of 8GW, meanwhile it has also been ranked as Top 10 PV companies in China in terms of the shipments. As an intelligent new energy provider, Haitai Solar will continue to promote new energy development with both premium quality and technology to lead the green energy revolution.

Media Contact

[email protected]

Facebook: @haitaisolar

SOURCE Haitai Solar
TORONTO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lil Durk is excited to declare and embrace the search for a Chief Marketing Officer starting Tuesday, August 9th, 2022.

The job will require 40-hour flexible work weeks with a salary of $200,000 CAD annually.

Lil Durk

Additionally, Lil Durk is looking to provide several post-secondary students with internships for remote working.

"At Lil Durk, we are able to provide you with jobs involving marketing, public relations, investor relations and more as we expand the company," said Alexander Elder, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at Lil Durk. "We are happy to have you in the company and we look forward to the success of the company."

Lil Durk is an A.I.-driven news platform that was founded in 2020 by Alexander Elder and Dylan Fawcett.

"The AI apps are properly scaled, first-rate, superior, and award-winning," said co-founder and Chairman Dylan Fawcett.

Lil Durk has several clients nationwide which are mainly residential, corporate, and retails.

Some of the current projects at Lil Durk involve AI, design development, design research, graphical visualization, comparative analysis, and contract development.

About Lil Durk

Lil Durk operates as a news and technology company providing comprehensive, up-to-date news coverage, aggregated from sources across the world.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking information or forward-looking statements. Such information and statements, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements" are made as of the date of this news release or as of the date of the effective date of information described in this news release, as applicable. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by use of words such as "outlook", "expects", "intend", "forecasts", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "envisages, "assumes", "needs", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", or variations thereof, or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "can", "could", "would", "might", or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms or similar expressions, and other similar terminology) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Such forward-looking statements are based on assumptions that may prove to be incorrect, including but not limited to the ability of Lil Durk to execute on its business plan and that Lil Durk will receive one or multiple licenses from Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis, British Columbia's Liquor Distribution Branch, Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority of Manitoba, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario or the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority permitting it to carry on its Lil Durk Inc. business, Lil Durk considers these assumptions to be reasonable in the circumstances. However, there can be no assurance that any one or more of the government, industry, market, operational or financial targets as set out herein will be achieved. Inherent in the forward-looking statements are known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from any results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

The forwardlooking statements contained herein are current as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, Lil Durk does not have any obligation to advise any person if it becomes aware of any inaccuracy in or omission from any forward-looking statement, nor does it intend, or assume any obligation, to update or revise these forward-looking statements to reflect new events or circumstances. Any and all forward-looking statements included in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement, and except as otherwise indicated, are made as of the date of this news release.

Media Contact:

Alexander Elder

[email protected]

(516) 253-4398





SOURCE Lil Durk
LONDON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Localz , leading experts in last mile location and messaging technology, just announced a new group chat feature to its customer engagement solution . Already being used by leading brands including HSS Hire , Clarion Housing , DuluxGroup and Welsh Water , Chat My Way provides customers and mobile operatives with an easy way to communicate around service appointments . The latest release loops the contact centre into the conversation, which will enable businesses to improve transparency and communication with customers. Operational benefits will include reduced call-centre volumes and increased first-time access.

Two-way chat already empowers customers and mobile operatives on the day of service. Group chat with the contact centre takes this a step further. If the operative is driving, or the customer needs help to reschedule, the office-based team can step in. Technicians can also message the contact centre directly if they need more information. Customers benefit from faster resolution, and it's easier for operatives to complete their day's work.

How does Group Chat work?

Customer experience

Customers receive an SMS or email reminder on the day of their appointment. Messages contain a link to a web-based customer portal, where customers can track their technician's arrival and start a conversation.

Mobile operative experience

Field operatives can take part in chats through the Localz operative app or through integration with an existing mobile worker app. Operatives are notified when the customer or contact centre sends a message, and can reply directly through the app. They can also initiate a group chat, or send a message directly to the contact centre.

Contact centre experience

Office staff can view and join in group chats, or to chat directly with an operative via the dashboard. Advisors can view current chats in a dedicated sidebar while navigating the dashboard. They can also start a chat by clicking on a driver or job in the map view.

Increasing transparency

The Localz dashboard makes it simple for businesses to keep track of service-related chats in one central location, removing the need to rely on consumer messaging apps.

All chat transcripts are securely stored and accessible via the dashboard and chats involving customers are stored alongside job details, so the whole process is auditable and transparent.

At a glance, businesses can see who took part in each chat, which job it was related to, and when the last message was received.

"Clear, secure communication between mobile operatives, advisors and customers is critical to delivering the next generation of last mile services. We've already seen organisations empowering field staff and customers with two-way communication. By looping in the office-based team, businesses will enable quicker answers and increased transparency. We have seen a significant growth in demand for a secure, auditable and fully integrated group chat feature and are delighted to now be able to deliver this to our current and future customers," said Tim Andrew, CEO & Co-Founder at Localz.

For more information about Chat My Way: https://www.localz.com/modules/chat-my-way

About Localz

Localz are experts at digital customer engagement, combining real-time location tracking and customer communications. Localz takes the last mile complexity out of service appointments, offering businesses configurable, bolt-on solutions to make the day of service awesome and keep customers in control.

The Localz modular platform enables real-time service tracking, accurate ETAs, two-way and multi-party communication, along with instant feedback forms. Localz is proven to reduce no-access rates, call centre volume, follow-up calls and operational time while increasing customer satisfaction.

Industry-leading clients around the world use Localz, including Clarion Housing, DuluxGroup, Watford Housing Trust, Wates, RAC, HSS Hire, OVO Energy, Welsh Water, Autoglass, Rentokil, and Woolworths.

For more information: www.localz.com

SOURCE Localz
MB2 Dental supports over 800 doctors and over 400 practices in 37 states.

DALLAS, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --

Partnered with 60 new locations

Opened 4 de novos

Entered two new states, North Carolina and Ohio

MB2 Dental, the fastest-growing dental partnership organization in the nation, today released it has had the best first half year in the company's history, exceeding even last year's impressive growth.

MB2 Dental partnered with 60 new practices and opened 4 de novos, with 17 more new builds in the pipeline. The organization also entered two new states, welcoming its first doctor partners in North Carolina and Ohio, bringing its national presence to 37 states.

MB2 Dental CEO and Founder Dr. Chris Steven Villanueva commented," Our growth this year has been tremendous as more doctors continue to learn about how MB2's model can support them professionally, personally, and financially. We are helping doctors stay in control of their practices that they've spent their life's work on, providing them with a platform for growth. With a proven track record of 15 years and the most tenured leadership team in the industry, we have best-in-class resources to support the goals of our doctors."

Jake Berry, Chief Development Officer at MB2 Dental, added, "2021 was a record year for us in terms of new growth, and we fully expect that our growth in 2022 will outpace that of last year. In addition to our acquisitory growth, we have steadily increased the number of de novo locations we have opened with our partners and demonstrated consistent same-store growth across the group.

Although MB2 has primarily partnered with general dentists, specialty partners currently represent the fastest-growing segment of our business. The addition of new specialty partners will create more long-term value for our partners as general and specialty providers alike will be able to collaborate both clinically and professionally in their local markets."

MB2 Dental is a doctor-founded and doctor-led organization with a mission to preserve the integrity of the dental profession in a quickly consolidating market. The DPO started as a single practice owned by Dr. Villanueva in 2007. The model resonated with Dr. Villanueva's colleagues and grew quickly through referrals. MB2 has since undergone two recapitalization events, most recently partnering with private equity firm Charlesbank Capital Partners in 2021.

MB2 Dental plans to continue growing its organization of 5,000 plus doctors and employees.

About MB2 Dental

Dallas, Texas-based MB2 Dental is a first-of-its-kind Dental Partnership Organization (DPO) founded and led by dentist and entrepreneur CEO Dr. Chris Steven Villanueva, with a mission to empower dentists to preserve their profession. Since its founding in 2007, MB2 has partnered with hundreds of dentists to help them stay in the driver's seat as they maximize their talents, connect as part of a community and build exceptional wealth. MB2 currently partners with dentists and specialists in more than 35 states. For more information, visit https://mb2dental.com.

PRESS CONTACT

Lindsey Byrnes

9728693789

https://mb2dental.com

SOURCE MB2 Dental
Company's antigen rapid testing kit checks for multiple viruses with results in 10-15 minutes

CLEVELAND, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MedAir Labs President and CEO Dr. William Kedia will discuss the Solon, Ohio-based startup's innovative antigen rapid testing kit at this year's virtual Invention-Con: Inspiring and Redefining the Innovative Mindset, the United States Trademark and Patent Office's (USPTO's) annual conference for independent inventors, entrepreneurs and small business owners. Kedia will join three other innovative leaders in a panel discussion on August 11 to share how they are using technology to drive positive change.

MedAir Labs' antigen rapid testing kit checks for multiple viruses  including COVID-19  using one nasal swab, with accuracy rivaling a PCR test and results available within 10-15 minutes. According to Kedia, the superior sensitivity and specificity of the testing kit will effectively reduce the cost of diagnosis and improve the patient experience.

"I'm grateful to have been invited to participate in such a prestigious conference and to join this exclusive inventor class recognized by the USPTO for driving innovation for humanity," said Kedia. "I believe it is a testament to the groundbreaking nature of MedAir Labs' innovative products, and I'm excited to share how we're inspiring innovation in the healthcare and life sciences fields."

The company is planning to submit an application by the end of August seeking approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the kit.

"Our antigen rapid testing kit is a game changer," said Kedia. "The way it has been developed as well as its phenomenal accuracy with results delivered in such a short timeframe makes it truly unique."

MedAir Labs plans to market the innovation as a point-of-care test administered initially at physician's offices, urgent care centers and emergency rooms, with plans to offer it over the counter in the future.

The idea to create a startup driven to develop innovative healthcare technology to improve the quality of people's lives was sparked over a firepit conversation during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020.

MedAir Labs, which was co-founded by Kedia, Murthy Talasila and Sonny Verma, was created to develop more accurate, effective and less obtrusive solutions to assist in the global health crisis.

Kedia served as a primary care physician as president of Family Medical Care Plus, with offices in Hudson and Tallmadge, from March 2002 until February of this year when he sold the practice to focus on his role with MedAir Labs.

"The company was born out of my initial experiences with patients during the pandemic," said Kedia. "Our company is based on accurate diagnosis and prevention of disease. We're still in the startup phase but are excited for what's on the horizon."

MedAir Labs first garnered attention and accolades for its Serenio product. To learn more, visit Serenio.com.

For more information and to register to attend the USPTO's 2022 Invention-Con, visit uspto.gov/about-us/events. To learn more about MedAir Labs and its products, visit MedAirLabs.com.

About MedAir Labs

MedAir Labs is a life sciences startup based in Solon, Ohio, driven to inspire innovation in the healthcare and life sciences fields by improving people's experiences through a human-centered design approach. The company was founded during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 to develop meaningful solutions in the areas of diagnostics and therapeutics to assist in the global health crisis. As part of its mission, MedAir Labs has invested significant resources to develop Serenio, a revolutionary patented technology that neutralizes airborne and surface coronaviruses including COVID-19; antiviral personal protective equipment (PPE) solutions; and advanced triple antigen testing kits.

CONTACT:

Murthy Talasila

216-338-2674

[email protected]

Bhuvana Krishnan

770-317-1895

[email protected]

SOURCE MedAir Labs
HOUSTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The comprehensive industry research on "Global Meditation Market" published by Data Bridge Market research which includes growth analysis, regional marketing, challenges, opportunities, and drivers analyzed in the report. A top notch Meditation Market report has an evaluation of the factors influencing the supply and demand of the related products and services, and challenges reckoned by market players. The report begins with a market outlook together with the data integration and capabilities study with the appropriate findings. It has projected strong upcoming growth of the market. The document gives a brief introduction to the research report outlook, TOC, list of tables and figures, an outlook to key players of the market and comprising key regions. An extensive summary of the Meditation Market comprises prominent market that includes several major market leaders in the report.

Global Meditation Market is expected to gain significant growth in the forecast period of 2022 to 2029. Data Bridge Market Research analyses that the global meditation market is growing with a CAGR of 18.5% in the forecast period of 2022 to 2029 and is expected to reach USD 20,532.44 million by 2029 from USD 5,295.07 million in 2022. Rising healthcare expenditure and escalation in innovation and technologies are major drivers which are expected to the growth of the market in the forecast period.

Download Sample Copy of Meditation Market Report @ https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/request-a-sample/?dbmr=global-meditation-market

Market Scenario

Meditation can be defined as a set of techniques that are intended to encourage a heightened state of awareness, focused attention and relieve stress. Meditation is also a consciousness- changing technique that has been shown to have a wide number of benefits on psychological well-being.

According to Data Bridge Market Research, the market the for global meditation market in Asia-Pacific region has the highest market share in the global meditation market. Market leaders are Calm, Headspace, Inc., and INSCAPE, which account for an estimated market share of approximately 55% to 60%. The company has gained outstanding sale through providing meditation products.

Meditation is a mind and body practice that has a long history of use for increasing calmness and physical relaxation, improving psychological balance, coping with illness, and enhancing overall health and well-being. Many studies have been conducted to look at how meditation may be helpful for a variety of conditions, such as high blood pressure, certain psychological disorders, and pain. A number of studies also have helped researchers learn how meditation might work and how it affects the brain.

Major Competitors covered in the report are

Smiling Mind,

Inner Explorer Inc.,

Committee for Children,

Stop,

Breathe & Think PBC,

Simple Habit, Inc.,

Calm,

Headspace Inc.,

Inscape, Insight Network Inc.,

Waking Up, LLC,

FeelVeryBien,

s.a.s.,

MEDITOPIA,

BetterMe,

Aura Health,

Sanity & Self,

TEN PERCENT HAPPIER,

Inward Inc,

Portal Labs Ltd.,

MOBIO INTERACTIVE,

MindfulnessEverywhere

Access Full 350 Pages PDF Report @ https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/checkout/buy/enterprise/global-meditation-market

Important Facts about This Market Report:

This research report reveals this business overview, product overview, market share, demand and supply ratio, supply chain analysis, and import/export details

The Industry report captivates different approaches and procedures endorsed by the market key players to make crucial business decisions

This research presents some parameters such as production value, marketing strategy analysis, Distributors/Traders and effect factors are also mentioned

The historical and current data is provided in the report based on which the future projections are made and the industry analysis is performed

The import and export details along with consumption value and production capability of every region is mentioned in the report

Porter's five forces analysis, value chain analysis, SWOT analysis are some additional important parameters used for the analysis of market growth

The report provides the clients with the facts and figures about the market on the basis of evaluation of the industry through primary and secondary research methodologies

Segmentation: Meditation Market

By Product (Apps, Websites, Books, Online Courses, Yoga Centers, Meditation Programs and Workshops),

By Meditation Type (Progressive Relaxation/Body Scan Meditation, Mindfulness Meditation, Breath Awareness Meditation, Spiritual Meditation/ Transcendental Meditation, Zen Meditation, Kundalini Yoga, and Metta Meditation),

By Indication (Mental Condition and Physical Condition),

By Type (Open Monitoring, Focused Attention and Self-Transcending Meditation),

By Age Groups (Adults and Children),

By Usage (Individual and Group),

By Information Source (Internet and Books/Newspaper/Articles),

By End Use (Home Setting, Meditation Centers and Corporates/Schools/Colleges)

Meditation Market Country Level Analysis

Countries covered in the global meditation market report are North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle East and Africa. These regions are further segmented into major countries such as the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, U.K., Hungary, Lithuania, Austria, Ireland, Norway, Poland, Italy, Spain, Russia, U.K., Germany, Italy, France, Spain Russia, Netherland, Switzerland, Turkey, Belgium, rest of Europe, China, India, Japan, Australia South Korea, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, rest of Asia Pacific, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Egypt, South Africa, rest of Middle East and Africa, Brazil, Argentina, and rest of South America.

Asia-Pacific is expected to dominate the global meditation market due to rising technological advancement in the region and Asia-Pacific is expected to grow with the highest CAGR in the forecast period due to growing awareness about meditation among people in the region. The Asia-Pacific is dominating in the market and leading the growth in the global meditation market due to The Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow with the most promising growth rate in the forecast period of 2022 to 2029 because of the high prevalence of mental disorders and flourishing yoga centers and meditation programs. China is dominating the Asia-Pacific market due to rising disposable income in the country.

Gain More Insights into the Meditation Market Analysis @ https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-meditation-market

For instance,

In May 2021, MOBIO INTERACTIVE announced that they developed personalised mental health therapy for people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has detrimentally impacted mental health worldwide, causing increased stress, anxiety, and depression. This therapy tremendously helped people during the pandemic and thereby generating more revenue for the company

Frequently Asked Questions

At what growth rate is the application segment expected to expand?

Which factors will lead to this market expansion?

What will be the market size?

What are the key constraints in this market growth?

Which type segment will witness healthy growth from xx to xx?

Which region presents lucrative growth prospects?

Which companies are the key innovators in this market?

What are the key business strategies for post-covid recovery?

Who are the key leaders in this market?

Which technological advancements will influence this market growth?

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part 01: Executive Summary

Part 02: Scope Of The Report

Part 03: Research Methodology

Part 04: Market Landscape

Part 05: Pipeline Analysis

Part 06: Market Sizing

Part 07: Five Forces Analysis

Part 08: Market Segmentation

Part 09: Customer Landscape

Part 10: Regional Landscape

Part 11: Decision Framework

Part 12: Drivers And Challenges

Part 13: Market Trends

Part 14: Vendor Landscape

Part 15: Vendor Analysis

Part 16: Appendix

Get TOC in Detail of Meditation Market @ https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/toc/?dbmr=global-meditation-market

Related Reports:-

Mindfulness Meditation Application Market, By Type (IOS, Android), Application (0  5 Years, 6  12 Years, 13  18 Years, 19 Years, Above), Country (U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Rest of South America, Germany, Italy, U.K., France, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Turkey, Russia, Rest of Europe, Japan, China, India, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Rest of Asia-Pacific, Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, South Africa, Egypt, Israel, Rest of Middle East and Africa) - https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-mindfulness-meditation-application-market

Europe Meditation Market, By Product (Apps, Websites, Books, Online Courses, Yoga Centers, Meditation Programs and Workshops), Meditation Type (Progressive Relaxation/Body Scan Meditation, Mindfulness Meditation, Breath Awareness Meditation, Spiritual Meditation/ Transcendental Meditation, Zen Meditation, Kundalini Yoga, and Metta Meditation), Indication (Mental Condition and Physical Condition), Type (Open Monitoring, Focused Attention and Self-Transcending Meditation), Age Groups (Adults and Children) ,Usage (Individual and Group), Information Source (Internet and Books/Newspaper/Articles), End Use (Home Setting, Meditation Centers and Corporates/Schools/Colleges), Country (U.K., Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Russia, Netherland, Switzerland, Turkey, Belgium, Rest of Europe) https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/europe-meditation-market

Middle East and Africa Meditation Market, By Product (Apps, Websites, Books, Online Courses, Yoga Centers, Meditation Programs and Workshops), Meditation Type (Progressive Relaxation/Body Scan Meditation, Mindfulness Meditation, Breath Awareness Meditation, Spiritual Meditation/ Transcendental Meditation, Zen Meditation, Kundalini Yoga, and Metta Meditation), Indication (Mental Condition and Physical Condition), Type (Open Monitoring, Focused Attention and Self-Transcending Meditation), Age Groups (Adults and Children) ,Usage (Individual and Group), Information Source (Internet and Books/Newspaper/Articles), End Use (Home Setting, Meditation Centers and Corporates/Schools/Colleges) https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/middle-east-and-africa-meditation-market

Asia-Pacific Meditation Market, By Product (Apps, Websites, Books, Online Courses, Yoga Centers, Meditation Programs and Workshops), Meditation Type (Progressive Relaxation/Body Scan Meditation, Mindfulness Meditation, Breath Awareness Meditation, Spiritual Meditation/ Transcendental Meditation, Zen Meditation, Kundalini Yoga, and Metta Meditation), Indication (Mental Condition and Physical Condition), Type (Open Monitoring, Focused Attention and Self-Transcending Meditation), Age Groups (Adults and Children) ,Usage (Individual and Group), Information Source (Internet and Books/Newspaper/Articles), End Use (Home Setting, Meditation Centers and Corporates/Schools/Colleges) https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/asia-pacific-meditation-market

North America Meditation Market, By Product (Apps, Websites, Books, Online Courses, Yoga Centers, Meditation Programs and Workshops), Meditation Type (Progressive Relaxation/Body Scan Meditation, Mindfulness Meditation, Breath Awareness Meditation, Spiritual Meditation/ Transcendental Meditation, Zen Meditation, Kundalini Yoga, and Metta Meditation), Indication (Mental Condition and Physical Condition), Type (Open Monitoring, Focused Attention and Self-Transcending Meditation), Age Groups (Adults and Children) ,Usage (Individual and Group), Information Source (Internet and Books/Newspaper/Articles), End Use (Home Setting, Meditation Centers and Corporates/Schools/Colleges) https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/north-america-meditation-market

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SOURCE Data Bridge Market Research
SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Naprotek, LLC., a leading provider of high-reliability, quick-turn electronics manufacturing, has completed the acquisition of MicroFab, Inc., a privately held company in Manchester, New Hampshire. This acquisition is a strategic element of Naprotek's continued expansion in RF products, services, and solutions. Naprotek now offers customers an array of custom build-to-print thin film products, supported by enhanced capabilities and a wider spectrum of thin film technologies. The business and entire MicroFab team will be integrated into the East Coast operations at SemiGen, a Naprotek Company.

Formed in 1999, MicroFab is a leading provider of precision RF circuit fabrication and atomic-level micro machining services. The company provides ion beam etching, plating, dicing, and micro-machining services and thin film components for communications, microwave, biomedical sensors, and fiber optics applications serving the Defense, Medical, and Telecom markets.

"The acquisition of MicroFab adds distinct manufacturing processes and products that will further complement our comprehensive product and service offering. Our business has continued to grow rapidly with ever increasing technical requirements from our customers. Facing this demand, we are confident that MicroFab will immediately augment our RF Solutions capabilities and we are excited to welcome John Kelley, Wayne Stauss, and the entire MicroFab team to SemiGen," commented Tim Filteau, President of SemiGen, Inc.

"Our team continues to excel across the Naprotek platform increasing our strengths with differentiated technologies spanning from SMT to RF/Microwave and Advanced Microelectronics. With a careful execution strategy, the integration of MicroFab into SemiGen strengthens the end-to-end RF Solutions for the East Coast operations of Naprotek," said Daniel Everitt, President and CEO of Naprotek.

"As the fourth acquisition in support of the Naprotek strategy of building an electronics technology solutions company, we are pleased to round-out SemiGen's RF circuit capabilities to further support our customers in Defense and other high-reliability markets," remarked Pete Ostergard, Partner at Edgewater Capital.

About Naprotek

Naprotek is an electronics technology solutions provider for high-reliability applications. Since 1995, Naprotek has delivered complex and custom solutions in the Defense, Space, Medical, and Semiconductor Capital Equipment markets and select applications in Test & Instrumentation and Advanced Technology. Capabilities include quick turn printed circuit board assembly, prototyping, RF components, advanced microelectronics, system integration, and test services. Naprotek is committed to delivering customer value through engineering, supply chain management, and manufacturing support. To learn more visit www.naprotek.com.

Sales Inquiries: (408) 830-5000 [email protected]

About Edgewater Capital Partners

Edgewater Capital Partners, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is a sector focused private equity firm investing in lower middle-market performance materials and services businesses. Edgewater has extensive experience and expertise in the specialty industrials, advanced materials, specialty chemicals, and life sciences sectors. Twenty years of industry-specific investing has enabled the firm to develop a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances common to these businesses. The Edgewater Difference is summarized by its three foundational pillars: deep sector expertise, Midwestern values and culture, and growth-enabling philosophy. For more information on Edgewater Capital Partners, visit www.edgewatercapital.com.

Related Links

www.Naprotek.com

www.SemiGen.net

www.MicroFabNH.com

www.NexLogic.com

www.EdgewaterCapital.com

SOURCE Naprotek LLC
Authors Guide Leaders of Family Businesses Toward Thoughtful, Tailored Approaches to Preventing and Mitigating Conflict That Can Destroy Business Value

MUMBAI, India, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Family businesses are uniquely at risk because of likely disputes among family members. But that doesn't have to be the case. Conflict can be identified, addressed, and mitigated so it does not disrupt operations or diminish business value, according to a new book from Boston Consulting Group (BCG) being published today.

Untangling Conflict: An Introspective Guide for Families in Business

In Untangling Conflict: An Introspective Guide for Families in Business, authors Janmejaya Sinha, Carol Liao, Ryoji Kimura, and Brittany Montgomery draw on their longtime experience working in corporate strategy and with family business dynamics to provide an invaluable reference manual for all family business leaders who seek better ways to deal with intra-family clashes.

Says Sinha, lead author and chairman of BCG India, "Mahatma Gandhi said, 'Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the ability to cope with it.' My coauthors and I want to enable families to discover the answers for themselves by posing questions that get past their deeply held assumptions and provoke the uncomfortable conversations they must have before conflicts ariseor get worse."

The book begins with thoughtful guidance that helps family business leaders reflect deeply on the defining attributes of their family and their relationship with the business. It then untangles the messy threads of conflict within family businesses by examining issues fraught with emotion, those related to the rights, benefits, and restrictions of ownership, and issues of business strategy.

"By exploring those three threads of conflict, our intention is to help families understand, prevent, and respond to disagreements without disrupting the business," says Liao, a senior partner and chair of BCG in Greater China.

The issues addressed in Untangling Conflict are many. There are intergenerational disputesbetween "elder statemen" founders and their sons and daughters educated abroad, for instance. In family-run businesses, fights often fester over roles for in-laws and nonfamily members. Among the most serious of all clashes are those over valuesfor example, between a profit-minded leader and a family member who places a premium on environmental causes.

"It's essential for the long-term health of any family business to identify the most damaging patterns of contention so those conflicts can be addressed openly," says Kimura, senior partner and global leader of BCG's Corporate Finance & Strategy practice.

The book cites data from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) estimating that 80% of businesses globally are family owned. In emerging markets, notes the IFC, family businesses represent the largest source of private sector job creation and the majority of micro-, small-, and medium- sized enterprises. About 300 of the top 500 revenue-generating businesses in India and South Korea belong to families, whereas in the US and the UK, only about 7% of the top 500 businesses are family owned.

The book closes by offering tools to align expectations and reduce friction among families, nonfamily employees, and the partners of family-owned businesses.

Untangling Conflict is published by Penguin Enterprise, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Printed copies can be purchased at: https://www.amazon.in/Untangling-Conflict-Introspective-Families-Business-Hardcover/dp/0670096954.

For more information, go to: https://www.bcg.com/capabilities/corporate-finance-strategy/family-business.

To arrange an interview with one of the authors, please contact Eric Gregoire

at +1 617 850 3783 or [email protected].

About Boston Consulting Group

Boston Consulting Group partners with leaders in business and society to tackle their most important challenges and capture their greatest opportunities. BCG was the pioneer in business strategy when it was founded in 1963. Today, we work closely with clients to embrace a transformational approach aimed at benefiting all stakeholdersempowering organizations to grow, build sustainable competitive advantage, and drive positive societal impact.

Our diverse, global teams bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives that question the status quo and spark change. BCG delivers solutions through leading-edge management consulting, technology and design, and corporate and digital ventures. We work in a uniquely collaborative model across the firm and throughout all levels of the client organization, fueled by the goal of helping our clients thrive and enabling them to make the world a better place.

SOURCE Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A series of measures have been agreed during a visit by the Chinese Foreign Minister to Mongolia that will act to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

During his visit, which began on Sunday and concluded yesterday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Mongolian President U. Khurelsukh, Prime Minister L. Oyun-Erdene and Parliament Speaker G. Zandanshatar, among others.

During his visit, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with the Prime Minister of Mongolia L.Oyun-Erdene

Agreements were concluded on the following:

Accelerating the delivery of the Erdeneburen hydropower plant project

Intensifying the construction of the Gashuunsukhait  Gantsmod railroad, which connects critical border points between the two countries

Stabilising the frequency of daily train services coming to Mongolia from China's sea ports

from sea ports Increasing the number of train exchanges and overall border capacity at the Zamyn Uud-Erlian border point and overall border capacity

During the talks, the goal was set of doubling bilateral trade turnover to USD 10 billion. Discussions also addressed the possibility of agreeing freer travel between Mongolia and China, with a particular focus on this aiding the humanitarian sector and Mongolian citizens who study in China, who are stuck outside of the country due to the pandemic-related border shutdown. The connection of the Khangi-Mandal port by railroad was also discussed during the visit.

Following a press conference with the Chinese Foreign Minister held on Monday, Mongolian Foreign Affairs Minister B. Battsetseg said:

"The agreements reached during this visit will strengthen the strategic relationship that already exists between our two countries, deepening our co-operation across a range of important sectors.

"New support for enhancing capacity at our ports and increasing Mongolian domestic energy production will provide further support to Mongolia's economic development as our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic continues, in line with the objectives set by the New Recovery Policy."

Photo : https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1875071/Government_of_Mongolia.jpg

SOURCE Government of Mongolia
Interview: Expectations high on China's green finance market towards sustainable growth

Xinhua) 15:42, August 09, 2022

BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- China's green finance market is in full swing, thanks to the rapid expansion of green industries and low-carbon transformation of traditional sectors amid the country's drive to promote sustainable development, an industry specialist told Xinhua in an interview.

"Climate investment and financing have gradually become new breakthroughs of green finance amid the solid progress of global climate governance and carbon neutrality," said Li Jing, partner of climate change and sustainability services at Ernst &Young (EY) Greater China.

Considering China's carbon peaking and neutrality goals, she is optimistic about sectors related to climate change and green growth in the country.

Li took China's carbon trading market as a typical example, saying the country's national carbon market "provides an important incentive to advance low-carbon and green transition."

The market helps optimize China's industrial and energy structures by encouraging energy-intensive industries to make technological innovations and offer more products that are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, she added.

Launched in July 2021 as an important scheme for China to reduce its carbon footprint and meet emissions targets, the market is the world's largest in terms of the amount of greenhouse gas emissions it covers.

In the first year of operation, it included 2,162 power-generating enterprises, covering about 4.5 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions. As of mid-July this year, its total trading volume had reached 194 million tonnes.

Li is upbeat about the future of the carbon trading market, expecting wider inclusion of high-emission sectors. She is also impressed by China's progress in establishing various carbon trading centers, citing the soon-to-open international trading center for ocean carbon sink in Hainan as an example.

According to an overall plan of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, from 2021 to 2025, the national carbon market will cover eight high-energy-consuming industries, including power generation, iron and steel, construction materials, non-ferrous metals, petrochemicals, chemicals, paper manufacturing and aviation, with a total of approximately 8,500 large emission-intensive enterprises.

In terms of foreign investment utilization, Li said "the establishment of China's national carbon market helps improve the quality of foreign investment by attracting more capital to green industries, while reducing investment in energy-intensive sectors."

She also underlined the importance of transition finance in promoting low-carbon growth. "It offers financial support to the low-carbon transformation of market entities, economic activities and projects, especially those with large amounts of carbon emissions or having strong negative impacts on the environment, to assist them in upgrading technology, saving energy and reducing carbon emissions," she said.

Hailing China's efforts in further opening up the financial sector, Li highlighted future opportunities for foreign investors in multiple fields, especially regional development.

Eying the opportunities related to green development in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, EY China has signed a MoU with the China Emissions Exchange, she said.

The two sides will work together to enrich and innovate green finance and ESG (environmental, social, and governance) investment products, gradually improve environmental information disclosure and enterprises' capacity for managing environmental and social risks in the region.

"As a slew of factors, including macro economic trends, the international situation and COVID-19, affect the global capital market this year, China's continued high-quality opening-up of the financial sector will boost the confidence of overseas investors," she said.

(Web editor: Liang Jun, Bianji)
70-ft high National Flag installed at Trishul War Memorial 18 Aug 2022 | 12:10 AM Jammu, August 17 (UNI) The 70-feet high mast National Flag has been installed at Trishul War Memorial at Karu Military Station in Leh district of Union Territory of Ladakh. see more..

J&K Cop injured, Pak terrorist succumbed at hospital 17 Aug 2022 | 11:53 PM Jammu, August 17 (UNI) A constable of Jammu and Kashmir Police was injured while an injured Pakistani terrorist succumbed at the Government Medical College and Hospital, police here said. see more..

Punjab CM & Delhi deputy CM visits Shimla 17 Aug 2022 | 11:00 PM Shimla, Aug 17 (UNI) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is constantly trying to strengthen its holds to increase the political ground to win the electoral battle of Himachal Pradesh. see more..

Development should reach the last person: Yogi 17 Aug 2022 | 10:48 PM Saharanpur/Shamli, Aug 17 (UNI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday visited the Saharanpur and Shamli districts on Wednesday to take stock of the ongoing development works in the region and issued directives to give pace to the various projects while ensuring that growth reaches all sections of the society. see more..
Backstop Solutions survey highlights how unpredictable days and non-core tasks are impacting BD and IR professionals already strapped for time

CHICAGO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- For business development (BD) and investor relations (IR) professionals at alternative asset management firms, one-quarter of their work week is spent on unplanned interactions with their limited partners (LPs), according to a new study from Backstop Solutions, the industry's leading cloud-based productivity suite for institutional and alternative investors.

Backstop Solutions' 2022 Alternative Investment Manager Productivity Survey of Investor Relations and Business Development Professionals found that:

Unplanned LP interactions consume a significant portion of a BD/IR professional's time. The average respondent spends 35 hours each week interacting with LPs, with more than one-third of that time being unplanned (13 hours). In other words, one quarter of respondents' work weeks is likely to be taken up with impromptu and unanticipated meetings with investors.

The average respondent spends 35 hours each week interacting with LPs, with more than one-third of that time being unplanned (13 hours). In other words, one quarter of respondents' work weeks is likely to be taken up with impromptu and unanticipated meetings with investors. BD and IR professionals are strapped for time. When asked how many hours they think they work on average, the result was 52. But when asked to add up the individual tasks that occupy their weeks, the total came out to 58. Hence, they may be working more than they think they are.

When asked how many hours they think they work on average, the result was 52. But when asked to add up the individual tasks that occupy their weeks, the total came out to 58. Hence, they may be working more than they think they are. BD/IR professionals are doing double duty. 62% of BD/IR professionals surveyed participate in both capital raising and retention. While necessary for building and maintaining relationships, it increases the reliance on software to maintain efficiency.

62% of BD/IR professionals surveyed participate in both capital raising and retention. While necessary for building and maintaining relationships, it increases the reliance on software to maintain efficiency. Technology is a key driver of effectiveness and retention , as it automates manual tasks and allows professionals to spend time on the most valuable activities. BD/IR professionals at alternative asset managers are clear that they could be working more efficiently overall and using technology more effectively. Only 55% of BD/IR professionals are satisfied or very satisfied with their technology solutions while nearly 80% think "there must be a better way of doing this" on a daily basis.

, as it automates manual tasks and allows professionals to spend time on the most valuable activities. BD/IR professionals at alternative asset managers are clear that they could be working more efficiently overall and using technology more effectively. Only 55% of BD/IR professionals are satisfied or very satisfied with their technology solutions while nearly 80% think "there must be a better way of doing this" on a daily basis. 58% BD/IR professionals believe capital raising is more challenging in the current economic environment. Spending time on strategic responsibilities is more important than ever for BD/IR professionals, given the current market conditions.

"With economic uncertainty looming, those who are raising and retaining capital have to be more cognizant than ever of how they are servicing their clients," said Maryling Yu, chief marketing officer of Backstop Solutions. "As many BD and IR professionals wear two hats and spend so much time on unplanned interactions with LPs, focusing on differentiating themselves during these unplanned interactions by answering their questions insightfully and in-the-moment will help solidify their relationships with allocators."

Commissioned by Backstop, the study surveyed 103 BD/IR professionals from alternative asset management firms conducted from May 29 to June 29, 2022, with respondents coming from key segments such as private equity, hedge funds, venture capital, real estate, multi-strategy, private debt, and infrastructure/real assets managers.

Read the full results of the 2022 Alternative Investment Manager Productivity Survey here.

About Backstop Solutions Group, LLC

Backstop's mission is to help professionals in the institutional investment industry use time to its fullest potential. We develop technology to simplify and streamline otherwise time-consuming tasks and processes, enabling our clients to quickly and easily access, share, and manage the knowledge that is critical to their day-to-day business success. Backstop provides its industry-leading cloud-based productivity suite to investment consultants, pensions, funds of funds, family offices, endowments, foundations, private equity, hedge funds, and real estate investment firms. For more information, please visit www.BackstopSolutions.com.

Media Contact

Malea Lydon

BackBay Communications

[email protected]

617-391-0775

SOURCE Backstop Solutions
Expands Digital Marketing Performance Management Platform with Integrated PPC Budget Management and Reporting

NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- NinjaCat , the digital marketing performance management platform purpose-built for agencies, media companies, and multilocation brands, today announced the acquisition of Shape.io , a leading pay-per-click (PPC) budget management software suite. The integration of Shape.io's budget monitoring and automation capabilities together with the addition of its leadership, engineering, and sales teams will accelerate NinjaCat's mission to deliver an all-in-one platform to store, report, monitor, analyze, and act on marketing data at scale.

According to NinjaCat CEO Paul Deraval, the acquisition signals a major shift in the market, as the company moves closer to delivering an alternative to the status quo; a "frankenstack" of point solutions, cobbled together for digital marketing analytics and reporting.

"The current landscape of multiple, disparate data sources and solutions makes it virtually impossible for marketers to implement and manage programs at scale. It's simply no longer a viable option," said Deraval. "By integrating Shape.io directly into the NinjaCat platform, our customers can now seamlessly track cross-channel ad spend alongside a wide range of other metrics. This allows us to move even faster towards our goal of delivering a single source of truth for all marketing data in one place."

Shape.io helps marketing departments and agencies who operate at scale optimize their budgets with the ability to control, organize, and collaborate on ad spend. For those who manage PPC marketing efforts for potentially thousands of customers, this creates efficiency everywhere, with the ability to set automations that limit overspending, provide recommendations where budgets are being under-deployed, and monitor budget pacing to hit targets right on time.

"It's never been more challenging for companies to effectively manage the sheer volume of marketing and advertising data businesses create, and bringing together data from disparate sources is the key," said Chris Vlessis, CEO of Shape.io. "NinjaCat has a powerful vision and roadmap for delivering a tightly integrated platform that will enable our clients to report and act on their marketing campaigns with greater accuracy and efficiency than ever before. We're extremely excited to be a part of it."

Shape.io's capabilities are already being utilized by the companies' joint customers, and will be made available to new and existing customers in coming months.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed. As a result of the acquisition, NinjaCat will increase to 350 customers managing more than half a million digital campaigns and $7B in advertising spend across the platform.

About NinjaCat

NinjaCat is a digital marketing performance management platform built for agencies, media companies, and brands. The NinjaCat platform is powered by the industry's most transformational data model for multi-channel digital marketing performance analytics, connecting hundreds of marketing data sources into a single platform. Marketers using NinjaCat can build and automate beautiful reports and dashboards at scale. By eliminating manual data wrangling and accelerating time to insight, NinjaCat's reporting and campaign monitoring solutions empower teams to communicate quickly and insightfully to prove the effectiveness of their marketing efforts to business stakeholders. Learn more at www.ninjacat.io .

SOURCE NinjaCat
Initiatives include curbside pickup and home delivery.

BOSTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OneView Commerce today announced it successfully delivered a series of key digital initiatives leveraging OneView's Unified Commerce Platform for Kroger.

To meet changing shopper needs, America's largest grocer leveraged OneView's headless commerce capabilities to finalize the digital orders when those orders are delivered at curbside pickup or via home delivery. OneView's Unified Commerce platform powers eCommerce pickup and delivery experiences at more than 1,000 Kroger locations.

"Using OneView's platform, we continue to deliver an innovative associate experience" Tweet this OneView's Unified Commerce platform powers eCommerce pickup and delivery experiences at more than 1,000 Kroger locations

"Using OneView's platform, we continue to deliver an innovative associate experience," said Sriram Samu, Customer Technology Vice President at Kroger. "The solution helps us create a seamless associate experience through guided processes and simplified trainingultimately reducing our customer wait times."

Kroger development teams leverage OneView's unified commerce transaction engine to meet both store associates' and their customers' rapidly evolving needs across modalities.

"We are pleased to support Kroger's phenomenal success in speeding delivery of solutions based on their strategic business transformation priorities and customers' needs," said OneView Chief Executive Officer Linda Palanza . "Their results are a testament to our vision for unified commerce and our platform's power to enhance customer and store associate experiences while enabling retailers to retain control over the development and delivery of new brand-based interactions."

Learn more at www.oneviewcommerce.com or follow us on Twitter @oneviewcommerce

About OneView Commerce

OneView Commerce creates the digital pathway for retailers to transform store and customer experiences with a unified commerce transaction engine that abstracts basket creation, calculation and checkout functions from siloed, disparate store and commerce systems. By synthesizing data and transaction execution to the omnichannel 'moment of action,' OneView empowers digital reach into stores, improves inventory accuracy, reduces substitutions and provides actionable insight into active baskets with every product scan. The Kroger Company, Australia Post and Molton Brown use OneView's smart basket technology to overcome legacy constraints and unlock store technology from static checkout lanes into the hands of customers and associates for click-to-brick engagement in pick and pack, pickups, delivery, scan and go, next-gen point of sale, and omnichannel order management. Learn more at www.oneviewcommerce.com or follow us on Twitter @oneviewcommerce

OneView Commerce Contact:

Lexy Johnson

OneView Commerce

E: [email protected]

P: 617.279.0549 x716

SOURCE OneView Commerce, Inc.
InfStones and Oracle work together to deliver a robust, secure, and scalable Web3 infrastructure development platform for enterprise customers

DALLAS, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- InfStones and Oracle today announced that they are collaborating on integrating InfStones' leading blockchain development platform with Oracle Cloud Infra-structure (OCI) to accelerate Web3 development. This collaboration will help deliver important insights that drive the evolution, development, and adoption of Web3 applications worldwide.

InfStones endorses a global multi-cloud strategy to serve the needs of its rapidly growing portfolio of Enterprise customers. The new combination of InfStones platforms running on OCI delivers on the price performance, scalability, and security needs of enterprise customers and provides additional options for customers building and developing next-generation blockchain applications.

"Our goal at InfStones is to reduce barriers to entry for new companies looking to incorporate blockchain technology into their stack," stated Dr. Zhen Wu Shi, CEO, InfStones. "Partnering with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure offers enterprise customers a robust infrastructure across OCI's multiple regions worldwide. We were also extremely impressed with the dedicated technical support provided by the OCI team and their support for our growth strategy."

"The power of the InfStones platform and Oracle's next-generation cloud infra-structure provides our joint customers with an extremely performant, reliable, and secure platform for developing decentralized Web3 applications," said Chris Gandolfo, Senior Vice President of Cloud Venture, Oracle. "Working with cutting-edge leaders in blockchain infrastructure like InfStones allows us to provide a robust solution for our enterprise customers as they increasingly look to Web3 development to solve the next-generation of IT problems. InfStones can provide complementary capabilities to OCI customers by leveraging the InfStones platform API gateway service for faster and more scalable API access to Ethereum, IBC, Polkadot, and many other blockchain ecosystems."

Oracle will work with InfStones to bring their enterprise blockchain customers to more verticals and builders across the Web3 development ecosystem.

About InfStones

InfStones is an advanced, enterprise-grade Platform as a Service (PaaS) blockchain infrastructure provider trusted by the top blockchain companies in the world. InfStones' AI-based infrastructure provides people around the world with a rugged, powerful node management platform alongside an easy-to-use API. With over 10,000 nodes supported on more than 60 blockchains, InfStones gives developers all the control they need - reliability, speed, efficiency, security, and scalability - for cross-chain DeFi, NFT, GameFi, and decentralized application development. InfStones is trusted by the biggest blockchain companies in the world including Binance, Coinlist, BitGo, OKX, Chainlink, Polygon, Harmony, and Kucoin, among a hundred other customers. The company is dedicated to developing the next evolution of a better world through limitless Web3 innovation.

For more information visit: www.infstones.com

SOURCE InfStones
WEST LINN, Ore., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pacific West Bank (OTC: PWBO) today announced that Jason Wessling has been promoted to Bank President subject to regulatory approval. Jason will also continue as the Bank's Chief Financial Officer and will join the Banks Board of Directors.

Jason Wessling, CPA

"Jason was the first executive recruited after the capital raise in 2018. At that time, the Bank had roughly $90.0 million in assets. Since then, under Jason's leadership as CFO the Bank has grown to $300 million, a milestone the Bank celebrated in July. The Bank recognized Jason's leadership contribution in October of 2020 by naming him the Bank's first Executive Vice President. His accomplishments were magnified during the following two years and were a significant determinant to the Bank's 3x growth during a time of unprecedented economic challenge," Terry Peterson the Bank's Chief Executive Officer.

"The Portland Business community honored Jason's leadership and successes by naming him CFO of the year by the Portland Business Journal in 2021. Jason demonstrates the Bank's culture of relationship banking by focusing on the growth of each relationship the Bank has with the community, businesses, non-profits, and the amazing team of Bankers at PWB," said Ed Kawasaki Board Chairman of the Bank.

Before joining Pacific West Bank, Jason was an executive at Premier Community Bank as its Chief Financial Officer with prior experience with Moss Adams, a public accounting firm as a specialist within the Financial Institutions practice. Jason is a CPA in the State of Oregon and is a member of the Oregon Society of CPAs and the AICPA.

About Pacific West Bank: Information about the Bank's stock is available through the over-the-counter marketplace at www.otcmarkets.com (symbol PWBO).

Pacific West Bank was formed in 2004 by Portland businesspeople to deliver loan and deposit product solutions through experienced and professional bankers to businesses, nonprofits, professionals, and individuals. The Bank serves the greater Portland Metro area with offices strategically located in Downtown Portland, Lake Oswego, and West Linn.

Media Contact:

Terry A. Peterson

Chief Executive Officer

(503) 905-2217

[email protected]

Certain statements in this release may be deemed to be "forward-looking statements." Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current plans, estimates and projections, and therefore you should not place undue reliance on them. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update publicly any of them in light of new information or future events. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. We caution you that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement.

SOURCE Pacific West Bank
System-wide same store sales increased 13.6%

Ends second quarter with total membership of more than 16.5 million

More than 3.3 million High School Summer Pass participants through end of July

HAMPTON, N.H., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Planet Fitness, Inc. (NYSE:PLNT) reported financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2022.

"Our high-quality, affordable fitness experience resonates now more than ever as Americans are seeking value and feeling the rising costs of everyday items such as food and gas. We believe that people will continue to prioritize their health and wellness while being more cost-conscious, and we offer a welcoming environment for people of all fitness levels. During the second quarter, our join trend returned to pre-pandemic seasonality with the addition of approximately 300,000 net new members, ending the quarter with more than 16.5 million," said Chris Rondeau, Chief Executive Officer. "We now have more than 3.3 million teens enrolled in our High School Summer Pass, a program that offers teens a chance to work out for free at our gyms over the summer  an extremely important initiative given the ongoing and alarming teen mental health crisis. This is more than three times the number of participants than when we last ran the program in 2019. Nearly 15 percent of all high school-aged teens in the U.S. are either enrolled in the program or are a paying member at Planet Fitness. We're proud to be helping them establish healthy habits that they can build upon into the future."

Second Quarter Fiscal 2022 results

Total revenue increased from the prior year period by 63.5% to $224.4 million .

. System-wide same store sales increased 13.6%.

System-wide sales increased $151 million to $1,019 million , from $868 million in the prior year period.

to , from in the prior year period. Net income attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc. was $22.3 million , or $0.26 per diluted share, compared to $14.0 million , or $0.17 per diluted share, in the prior year period.

, or per diluted share, compared to , or per diluted share, in the prior year period. Net income increased $10.1 million to $25.1 million , compared to $15.0 million in the prior year period.

to , compared to in the prior year period. Adjusted net income (1) increased $16.3 million to $34.5 million , or $0.38 per diluted share, compared to $18.2 million , or $0.21 per diluted share, in the prior year period.

increased to , or per diluted share, compared to , or per diluted share, in the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA (1) increased $34.3 million to $89.9 million from $55.6 million in the prior year period.

increased to from in the prior year period. 34 new Planet Fitness stores were opened during the period, bringing system-wide total stores to 2,324 as of June 30, 2022 .

. Repurchased and retired approximately 697,000 shares of Class A common stock using $44.3 million of cash on hand.

of cash on hand. Repaid in full its $75 million of borrowings under our Variable Funding Notes using cash on hand.

of borrowings under our Variable Funding Notes using cash on hand. Cash of $446.3 million , which includes cash and cash equivalents of $383.5 million and restricted cash of $62.8 million .

(1) Adjusted net income and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures. For reconciliations of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted net income to U.S. GAAP ("GAAP") net income see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" accompanying this press release.

Operating Results for the Second Quarter Ended June 30, 2022

For the second quarter 2022, total revenue increased $87.2 million or 63.5% to $224.4 million from $137.3 million in the prior year period, which included system-wide same store sales growth of 13.6%. By segment:

Franchise segment revenue increased $9.7 million or 13.3% to $82.5 million from $72.8 million in the prior year period. The increase in franchise segment revenue for the second quarter of 2022 was primarily due to a $6.2 million increase in franchise royalty revenue, a $1.6 million increase in National Advertising Fund ("NAF") revenue, and a $1.7 million increase in placement revenue. Of the $6.2 million increase in royalty revenue, $5.9 million was attributable to a same store sales increase of 13.4% in franchisee-owned stores, $1.9 million was attributable to new stores opened since April 1, 2021 or stores that were not open for all of the prior year period due to COVID-related temporary closures, and $0.8 million was from higher royalties on annual fees. Partially offsetting the royalty revenue increases was a decrease of approximately $3.1 million as a result of the stores acquired in the acquisition of Sunshine Fitness Growth Holdings, LLC in the first quarter of 2022 (the "Sunshine Acquisition") moving from the franchise segment to the corporate-owned segment;

or 13.3% to from in the prior year period. The increase in franchise segment revenue for the second quarter of 2022 was primarily due to a increase in franchise royalty revenue, a increase in National Advertising Fund ("NAF") revenue, and a increase in placement revenue. Of the increase in royalty revenue, was attributable to a same store sales increase of 13.4% in franchisee-owned stores, was attributable to new stores opened since or stores that were not open for all of the prior year period due to COVID-related temporary closures, and was from higher royalties on annual fees. Partially offsetting the royalty revenue increases was a decrease of approximately as a result of the stores acquired in the acquisition of Sunshine Fitness Growth Holdings, LLC in the first quarter of 2022 (the "Sunshine Acquisition") moving from the franchise segment to the corporate-owned segment; Corporate-owned stores segment revenue increased $60.9 million or 150.0% to $101.5 million from $40.6 million in the prior year period. Of the increase, $49.5 million was attributable to the acquisition of 114 stores in the Sunshine Acquisition, $5.3 million was from the corporate-owned store same store sales increase of 15.7%, $4.0 million was from new stores opened since April 1, 2021 and stores that were not open for all of the prior year period due to COVID-related temporary closures, and the remainder due to higher annual fee revenue; and

or 150.0% to from in the prior year period. Of the increase, was attributable to the acquisition of 114 stores in the Sunshine Acquisition, was from the corporate-owned store same store sales increase of 15.7%, was from new stores opened since and stores that were not open for all of the prior year period due to COVID-related temporary closures, and the remainder due to higher annual fee revenue; and Equipment segment revenue increased $16.6 million or 69.8% to $40.4 million from $23.8 million in the prior year period, driven by higher equipment sales to new and existing franchisee-owned stores in the three months ended June 30, 2022 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2021 . In the three months ended June 30, 2022 , the Company had equipment sales to 26 new franchisee-owned stores compared to 19 in the prior year period.

For the second quarter of 2022, net income attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc. was $22.3 million, or $0.26 per diluted share, compared to $14.0 million, or $0.17 per diluted share, in the prior year period. Net income was $25.1 million in the second quarter of 2022 compared to $15.0 million in the prior year period. Adjusted net income increased $16.3 million to $34.5 million, or $0.38 per diluted share, from $18.2 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, in the prior year period. Adjusted net income has been adjusted to reflect a normalized federal income tax rate of 26.7% and 26.6% for the current and prior year period, respectively, and excludes certain non-cash and other items that we do not consider in the evaluation of ongoing operational performance (see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures").

Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, adjusted for the impact of certain non-cash and other items that we do not consider in the evaluation of ongoing operational performance (see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures"), increased $34.3 million to $89.9 million from $55.6 million in the prior year period.

Segment EBITDA represents our Total Segment EBITDA broken down by the Company's reportable segments. Total Segment EBITDA is equal to EBITDA, which is defined as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures").

Franchise segment EBITDA increased $2.6 million to $54.3 million . The increase in franchise segment EBITDA for the second quarter of 2022 was primarily due to the revenue increases described above. Partially offsetting these EBITDA increases, NAF expense was $5.4 million higher in the three months ended June 30, 2022 than in the prior year period;

to . The increase in franchise segment EBITDA for the second quarter of 2022 was primarily due to the revenue increases described above. Partially offsetting these EBITDA increases, NAF expense was higher in the three months ended than in the prior year period; Corporate-owned stores segment EBITDA increased $29.1 million to $39.5 million . Of the increase, $20.7 million was attributable to corporate-owned stores acquired in the Sunshine Acquisition and $9.8 million due to the same store sales increase of 15.7%, partially offset by higher corporate-owned store selling general and administrative expense primarily as a result of the Sunshine Acquisition; and

to . Of the increase, was attributable to corporate-owned stores acquired in the Sunshine Acquisition and due to the same store sales increase of 15.7%, partially offset by higher corporate-owned store selling general and administrative expense primarily as a result of the Sunshine Acquisition; and Equipment segment EBITDA increased by $4.6 million to $10.2 million driven by higher equipment sales to new and existing franchisee-owned stores in the three months ended June 30, 2022 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2021 , as described above.

Company Updates

This morning the Company announced that Dorvin Lively, President, has decided to retire and will transition through the next couple of months. Dorvin joined Planet Fitness in 2013 as the Company's Chief Financial Officer and was instrumental in developing its finance organization, preparing the Company to go public and then leading the IPO in 2015, and, more broadly, expanding the brand both domestically and globally. The Company has begun a search for a new President.

"We are grateful for Dorvin's leadership, friendship, passion for our member and franchisees, and significant contributions to the brand over the past nine years. Personally, I'd like to thank Dorvin for helping me lead Planet Fitness and I am forever grateful for his guidance and support," said Chris Rondeau, Chief Executive Officer.

2022 Outlook

For the year ending December 31, 2022, the Company is reiterating the following expectations as compared to the Company's 2021 results, which includes the impact from the Sunshine Acquisition and assumes there is no significant worsening of the COVID-19 pandemic that seriously impacts performance, including prolonged store closures or other mandated operational restrictions:

New equipment placements of approximately 170 in franchisee-owned locations

System-wide same store sales in the low double-digit percentage range

The following are 2022 growth expectations over the Company's 2021 results:

Revenue to increase in the mid-50 percent range

Adjusted EBITDA to increase in the high-50 percent range

Adjusted Net Income to increase in the low-90 percent range

Adjusted earnings per share to increase in the mid-80 percent range, based on Adjusted diluted shares outstanding of approximately 90.7 million, inclusive of the issuance of equity as part of the Sunshine Acquisition and the second quarter share repurchase

The Company now expects 2022 net interest expense to be approximately $86 million as a result of its recent debt refinancing and upsizing.

Presentation of Financial Measures

Planet Fitness, Inc. (the "Company") was formed in March 2015 for the purpose of facilitating the initial public offering (the "IPO") and related recapitalization transactions that occurred in August 2015, and in order to carry on the business of Pla-Fit Holdings, LLC ("Pla-Fit Holdings") and its subsidiaries. As the sole managing member of Pla-Fit Holdings, the Company operates and controls all of the business and affairs of Pla-Fit Holdings, and through Pla-Fit Holdings, conducts its business. As a result, the Company consolidates Pla-Fit Holdings' financial results and reports a non-controlling interest related to the portion of Pla-Fit Holdings not owned by the Company.

The financial information presented in this press release includes non-GAAP financial measures such as EBITDA, Segment EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted net income per share, diluted, to provide measures that we believe are useful to investors in evaluating the Company's performance. These non-GAAP financial measures are supplemental measures of the Company's performance that are neither required by, nor presented in accordance with GAAP. These financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for GAAP financial measures such as net income or any other performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP. In addition, in the future, the Company may incur expenses or charges such as those added back to calculate Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted net income per share, diluted. The Company's presentation of Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted net income per share, diluted, should not be construed as an inference that the Company's future results will be unaffected by similar amounts or other unusual or nonrecurring items. See the tables at the end of this press release for a reconciliation of EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Total Segment EBITDA, Adjusted net income, and Adjusted net income per share, diluted, to their most directly comparable GAAP financial measure.

Same store sales refers to year-over-year sales comparisons for the same store sales base of both corporate-owned and franchisee-owned stores, which is calculated for a given period by including only sales from stores that had sales in the comparable months of both years. We define the same store sales base to include those stores that have been open and for which monthly membership dues have been billed for longer than 12 months. We measure same store sales based solely upon monthly dues billed to members of our corporate-owned and franchisee-owned stores.

The non-GAAP financial measures used in our full-year outlook will differ from net income and net income per share, diluted, determined in accordance with GAAP in ways similar to those described in the reconciliations at the end of this press release. We do not provide guidance for net income or net income per share, diluted, determined in accordance with GAAP or a reconciliation of guidance for Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted net income per share, diluted, to the most directly comparable GAAP measure because we are not able to predict with reasonable certainty the amount or nature of all items that will be included in our net income and net income per share, diluted, for the year ending December 31, 2022. Accordingly, a reconciliation of the Company's guidance for Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted net income per share, diluted, to the most directly comparable GAAP measure cannot be made available without unreasonable effort. These items are uncertain, depend on many factors and could have a material impact on our net income and net income per share, diluted, for the year ending December 31, 2022.

Investor Conference Call

The Company will hold a conference call at 8:00 AM (ET) on August 9, 2022 to discuss the news announced in this press release. A live webcast of the conference call will be accessible at www.planetfitness.com via the "Investor Relations" link. The webcast will be archived on the website for one year.

About Planet Fitness

Founded in 1992 in Dover, NH, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the United States by number of members and locations. As of June 30, 2022, Planet Fitness had more than 16.5 million members and 2,324 stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico and Australia. The Company's mission is to enhance people's lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone. More than 90% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include the Company's statements with respect to expected future performance presented under the heading "2022 Outlook," those attributed to the Company's Chief Executive Officer in this press release, including with respect to the Company's growth opportunities globally and long-term targets for U.S. store locations, and other statements, estimates and projections that do not relate solely to historical facts. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "believe," "expect," "goal," plan," "will," "prospects," "future," "strategy" and similar references to future periods, although not all forward-looking statements include these identifying words. Forward-looking statements are not assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on the Company's current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of the business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company's control. Actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially include risks and uncertainties associated with the duration and impact of COVID-19, which has resulted and may continue to result in store closures and a decrease in our net membership base and may give rise to or heighten one or more of the other risks and uncertainties described herein, competition in the fitness industry, the Company's and franchisees' ability to attract and retain members, the Company's and franchisees' ability to identify and secure suitable sites for new franchise stores, changes in consumer demand, changes in equipment costs, the Company's ability to expand into new markets domestically and internationally, operating costs for the Company and franchisees generally, availability and cost of capital for franchisees, acquisition activity, developments and changes in laws and regulations, our substantial increased indebtedness as a result of our refinancing and securitization transactions and our ability to incur additional indebtedness or refinance that indebtedness in the future, our future financial performance and our ability to pay principal and interest on our indebtedness, our corporate structure and tax receivable agreements, failures, interruptions or security breaches of the Company's information systems or technology, our ability to successfully integrate and realize the anticipated benefits from the Sunshine Acquisition, general economic conditions and the other factors described in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021, and the Company's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In light of the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in forward-looking statements, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's views only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, neither the Company nor any of its affiliates or representatives undertake any obligation to provide additional information or to correct or update any information set forth in this release, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Planet Fitness, Inc. and subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)



For the three months ended June 30,

For the six months ended June 30,



2022

2021

2022

2021 Revenue:















Franchise

$ 67,917

$ 59,758

$ 133,531

$ 111,938 Commission income

41

70

544

342 National advertising fund revenue

14,585

13,021

28,552

24,630 Corporate-owned stores

101,453

40,579

177,610

78,456 Equipment

40,446

23,823

70,881

33,762 Total revenue

224,442

137,251

411,118

249,128 Operating costs and expenses:















Cost of revenue

32,544

18,497

54,905

26,482 Store operations

56,362

28,430

103,897

54,337 Selling, general and administrative

28,202

21,789

59,028

44,279 National advertising fund expense

18,889

13,529

33,436

26,282 Depreciation and amortization

32,172

15,036

57,855

30,510 Other (gains) losses, net

1,181

(282)

(1,752)

(2,420) Total operating costs and expenses

169,350

96,999

307,369

179,470 Income from operations

55,092

40,252

103,749

69,658 Other expense, net:















Interest income

474

195

683

412 Interest expense

(21,979)

(20,125)

(44,610)

(40,369) Other income (expense)

148

(147)

4,238

18 Total other expense, net

(21,357)

(20,077)

(39,689)

(39,939) Income before income taxes

33,735

20,175

64,060

29,719 Equity earnings (losses) of unconsolidated entities, net of tax

(94)



(332)

 Provision for income taxes

8,570

5,159

20,281

8,513 Net income

25,071

15,016

43,447

21,206 Less net income attributable to non-controlling interests

2,729

1,006

4,641

1,615 Net income attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc.

$ 22,342

$ 14,010

$ 38,806

$ 19,591 Net income per share of Class A common stock:















Basic

$ 0.26

$ 0.17

$ 0.46

$ 0.24 Diluted

$ 0.26

$ 0.17

$ 0.46

$ 0.23 Weighted-average shares of Class A common stock outstanding:















Basic

84,810

83,223

84,490

83,154 Diluted

85,197

83,837

84,919

83,771

Planet Fitness, Inc. and subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)



June 30, 2022

December 31, 2021 Assets







Current assets:







Cash and cash equivalents

$ 383,511

$ 545,909 Restricted cash

62,762

58,032 Accounts receivable, net of allowance for bad debts of $0 and $0 at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively

23,274

27,257 Inventory

3,040

1,155 Restricted assets  national advertising fund

12,804

 Prepaid expenses

14,046

12,869 Other receivables

21,310

13,519 Income tax receivables

2,635

3,673 Total current assets

523,382

662,414 Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $189,742 and $152,296 at June 30, 2022

and December 31, 2021, respectively

334,661

173,687 Investments, net of allowance for expected credit losses of $15,617 and $17,462

as of June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively

21,186

18,760 Right of use assets, net

357,615

190,330 Intangible assets, net

441,278

200,937 Goodwill

714,153

228,569 Deferred income taxes

487,694

539,264 Other assets, net

4,117

2,022 Total assets

$ 2,884,086

$ 2,015,983 Liabilities and stockholders' deficit







Current liabilities:







Current maturities of long-term debt

$ 20,750

$ 17,500 Accounts payable

22,312

27,892 Accrued expenses

55,993

51,714 Equipment deposits

22,861

6,036 Deferred revenue, current

63,446

28,351 Payable pursuant to tax benefit arrangements, current

35,894

20,302 Other current liabilities

42,300

24,815 Total current liabilities

263,556

176,610 Long-term debt, net of current maturities

1,985,730

1,665,273 Borrowings under Variable Funding Notes



75,000 Lease liabilities, net of current portion

351,462

197,682 Deferred revenue, net of current portion

33,032

33,428 Deferred tax liabilities

886

 Payable pursuant to tax benefit arrangements, net of current portion

474,130

507,805 Other liabilities

4,298

3,030 Total noncurrent liabilities

2,849,538

2,482,218 Stockholders' equity (deficit):







Class A common stock, $0.0001 par value - 300,000 authorized, 84,230 and 83,804 shares issued and

outstanding as of June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively

8

8 Class B common stock, $0.0001 par value - 100,000 authorized, 6,146 and 3,056 shares issued and

outstanding as of June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively

1

1 Accumulated other comprehensive income

(110)

12 Additional paid in capital

529,026

63,428 Accumulated deficit

(714,297)

(708,804) Total stockholders' deficit attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc.

(185,372)

(645,355) Non-controlling interests

(43,636)

2,510 Total stockholders' deficit

(229,008)

(642,845) Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit

$ 2,884,086

$ 2,015,983

Planet Fitness, Inc. and subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)



For the six months ended June 30,



2022

2021 Cash flows from operating activities:







Net income

$ 43,447

$ 21,206 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:







Depreciation and amortization

57,855

30,510 Amortization of deferred financing costs

2,755

3,155 Write-off of deferred financing costs

1,583

 Dividends accrued on investment

(914)

 Deferred tax expense

18,843

7,210 Equity loss of unconsolidated entities, net of tax

332

 Gain on adjustment of allowance for credit losses on held-to-maturity investment

(1,845)

 Gain on re-measurement of tax benefit arrangement

(3,871)

(348) Loss on reacquired franchise rights

1,160

 Equity-based compensation

5,601

4,049 Other

65

(71) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, excluding effects of acquisitions:







Accounts receivable

3,884

1,006 Inventory

(1,885)

(724) Other assets and other current assets

(7,683)

6,059 Restricted assets - national advertising fund

(12,804)

(8,362) Accounts payable and accrued expenses

(19,949)

(102) Other liabilities and other current liabilities

2,225

(3,725) Income taxes

64

413 Payable pursuant to tax benefit arrangements

(14,211)

 Equipment deposits

16,838

6,688 Deferred revenue

17,783

7,319 Leases and deferred rent

990

(17) Net cash provided by operating activities

110,263

74,266 Cash flows from investing activities:







Additions to property and equipment

(41,423)

(19,395) Acquisition of franchises, net of cash acquired

(424,940)

 Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

60

1 Investments



(35,000) Net cash used in investing activities

(466,303)

(54,394) Cash flows from financing activities:







Principal payments on capital lease obligations

(132)

(104) Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

900,000

 Proceeds from issuance of Variable Funding Notes

75,000

 Repayment of long-term debt

(714,438)

(8,750) Payment of deferred financing and other debt-related costs

(16,193)

 Proceeds from issuance of Class A common stock

676

578 Repurchase and retirement of Class A common stock

(44,299)

 Distributions to Continuing LLC Members

(2,023)

(145) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

198,591

(8,421) Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

(219)

120 Net (decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

(157,668)

11,571 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period

603,941

515,800 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period

$ 446,273

$ 527,371 Supplemental cash flow information:







Net cash paid for income taxes

$ 1,353

$ 889 Cash paid for interest

$ 40,057

$ 37,536 Non-cash investing activities:







Non-cash additions to property and equipment

$ 9,608

$ 3,500 Fair value of common stock issued as consideration for acquisition

$ 393,730

$ 



To supplement its consolidated financial statements, which are prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP, the Company uses the following non-GAAP financial measures: EBITDA, Total Segment EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted net income per share, diluted (collectively, the "non-GAAP financial measures"). The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures, when used in conjunction with GAAP financial measures, are useful to investors in evaluating our operating performance. These non-GAAP financial measures presented in this release are supplemental measures of the Company's performance that are neither required by, nor presented in accordance with GAAP. These financial measures should not be considered in isolation or as substitutes for GAAP financial measures such as net income or any other performance measures derived in accordance with GAAP. In addition, in the future, the Company may incur expenses or charges such as those added back to calculate Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted net income per share, diluted. The Company's presentation of Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income, and Adjusted net income per share, diluted, should not be construed as an inference that the Company's future results will be unaffected by unusual or nonrecurring items.

EBITDA, Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

We refer to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as we use these measures to evaluate our operating performance and we believe these measures provide useful information to investors in evaluating our performance. We have also disclosed Segment EBITDA as an important financial metric utilized by the Company to evaluate performance and allocate resources to segments in accordance with ASC 280, Segment Reporting. We define EBITDA as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Segment EBITDA sums to Total Segment EBITDA which is equal to the Non-GAAP financial metric EBITDA. We believe that EBITDA, which eliminates the impact of certain expenses that we do not believe reflect our underlying business performance, provides useful information to investors to assess the performance of our segments as well as the business as a whole. Our board of directors also uses EBITDA as a key metric to assess the performance of management. We define Adjusted EBITDA as net income before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, adjusted for the impact of certain additional non-cash and other items that we do not consider in our evaluation of ongoing performance of the Company's core operations. These items include certain purchase accounting adjustments, stock offering-related costs, and certain other charges and gains. We believe that Adjusted EBITDA is an appropriate measure of operating performance in addition to EBITDA because it eliminates the impact of other items that we believe reduce the comparability of our underlying core business performance from period to period and is therefore useful to our investors in comparing the core performance of our business from period to period.

Planet Fitness, Inc. and subsidiaries

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

(Unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts) A reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, is set forth below.



Three months ended June 30,

Six months ended June 30,



2022

2021

2022

2021 (in thousands)















Net income

$ 25,071

$ 15,016

$ 43,447

$ 21,206 Interest income

(474)

(195)

(683)

(412) Interest expense(1)

21,979

20,125

44,610

40,369 Provision for income taxes

8,570

5,159

20,281

8,513 Depreciation and amortization

32,172

15,036

57,855

30,510 EBITDA

$ 87,318

$ 55,141

$ 165,510

$ 100,186 Purchase accounting adjustments-revenue(2)

71

128

129

197 Purchase accounting adjustments-rent(3)

109

97

219

214 Loss on reacquired franchise rights(4)





1,160

 Gain on settlement of preexisting contract with acquiree(5)





(2,059)

 Transaction fees and acquisition-related costs(6)

525



4,948

 Loss (gain) on adjustment of allowance for credit losses on held-to-maturity investments(7)

265



(1,845)

 Dividend income on held-to-maturity investments(8)

(463)



(914)

 Pre-opening costs(9)

783

481

1,439

847 Legal matters(10)

898

(325)

951

(2,500) Tax benefit arrangement remeasurement(11)

(83)



(3,871)

(348) Other(12)

500

54

1,600

688 Adjusted EBITDA

$ 89,923

$ 55,576

$ 167,267

$ 99,284

(1) Includes a $1,583 loss on extinguishment of debt in the six months ended June 30, 2022. (2) Represents the impact of revenue-related purchase accounting adjustments associated with the acquisition of Pla-Fit Holdings on November 8, 2012 by TSG (the "2012 Acquisition"). At the time of the 2012 Acquisition, the Company maintained a deferred revenue account, which consisted of deferred area development agreement fees, deferred franchise fees, and deferred enrollment fees that the Company billed and collected upfront but recognizes for U.S. GAAP purposes at a later date. In connection with the 2012 Acquisition, it was determined that the carrying amount of deferred revenue was greater than the fair value assessed in accordance with ASC 805Business Combinations, which resulted in a write-down of the carrying value of the deferred revenue balance upon application of acquisition push-down accounting under ASC 805. These amounts represent the additional revenue that would have been recognized in these periods if the write-down to deferred revenue had not occurred in connection with the application of acquisition pushdown accounting. (3) Represents the impact of rent-related purchase accounting adjustments. In accordance with guidance in ASC 805  Business Combinations, in connection with the 2012 Acquisition, the Company's deferred rent liability was required to be written off as of the acquisition date and rent was recorded on a straight-line basis from the acquisition date through the end of the lease term. This resulted in higher overall recorded rent expense each period than would have otherwise been recorded had the deferred rent liability not been written off as a result of the acquisition push down accounting applied in accordance with ASC 805. Adjustments of $45, $33, $90 and $82 in the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, reflect the difference between the higher rent expense recorded in accordance with U.S. GAAP since the acquisition and the rent expense that would have been recorded had the 2012 Acquisition not occurred. Adjustments of $64, $64, $129, and $132 in the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, are due to the amortization of favorable and unfavorable leases. All of the rent related purchase accounting adjustments are adjustments to rent expense which is included in store operations on our consolidated statements of operations. (4) Represents the impact of a non-cash loss recorded in accordance with ASC 805  Business Combinations related to our acquisition of franchisee-owned stores. The loss recorded under U.S. GAAP represents the difference between the fair value and the contractual terms of the reacquired franchise rights and is included in other (gains) losses, net on our consolidated statement of operations. (5) Represents a gain on settlement of deferred revenue from existing contracts with acquired franchisee-stores recorded in accordance with ASC 805  Business Combinations, and is included in other (gains) losses, net on our consolidated statement of operations. (6) Represents transaction fees and acquisition-related costs incurred in connection with our acquisition of franchisee-owned stores. (7) Represents a loss (gain) on the adjustment of the allowance for credit losses on the Company's held-to-maturity investments. (8) Represents dividend income on held-to-maturity investments. (9) Represents costs associated with new corporate-owned stores incurred prior to the store opening, including payroll-related costs, rent and occupancy expenses, marketing and other store operating supply expenses. (10) In the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, the amounts represent a reserve against an indemnification receivable related to a legal matter. In the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, the amounts represent an insurance recovery of previously recognized expenses related to the settlement of legal claims. (11) Represents gains related to the adjustment of our tax benefit arrangements primarily due to changes in our deferred state tax rate. (12) Represents certain other charges and gains that we do not believe reflect our underlying business performance.





A reconciliation of Segment EBITDA to Total Segment EBITDA is set forth below.



Three months ended June 30, (in thousands)

2022

2021 Segment EBITDA







Franchise

$ 54,329

$ 51,756 Corporate-owned stores

39,477

10,372 Equipment

10,182

5,608 Corporate and other

(16,670)

(12,595) Total Segment EBITDA(1)

$ 87,318

$ 55,141

(1) Total Segment EBITDA is equal to EBITDA.





Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Net Income per Diluted Share

Our presentation of Adjusted net income assumes that all net income is attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc., which assumes the full exchange of all outstanding Holdings Units for shares of Class A common stock of Planet Fitness, Inc., adjusted for certain non-recurring items that we do not believe directly reflect our core operations. Adjusted net income per share, diluted, is calculated by dividing Adjusted net income by the total shares of Class A common stock outstanding plus any dilutive options and restricted stock units as calculated in accordance with GAAP and assuming the full exchange of all outstanding Holdings Units and corresponding Class B common stock as of the beginning of each period presented. Adjusted net income and Adjusted net income per share, diluted, are supplemental measures of operating performance that do not represent, and should not be considered, alternatives to net income and earnings per share, as calculated in accordance with GAAP. We believe Adjusted net income and Adjusted net income per share, diluted, supplement GAAP measures and enable us to more effectively evaluate our performance period-over-period. A reconciliation of Adjusted net income to net income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, and the computation of Adjusted net income per share, diluted, are set forth below.

Planet Fitness, Inc. and subsidiaries

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

(Unaudited)

(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)



Three months ended June 30,

Six months ended June 30, (in thousands, except per share amounts)

2022

2021

2022

2021 Net income

$ 25,071

$ 15,016

$ 43,447

$ 21,206 Provision for income taxes, as reported

8,570

5,159

20,281

8,513 Purchase accounting adjustments-revenue(1)

71

128

129

197 Purchase accounting adjustments-rent(2)

109

97

219

214 Loss on reacquired franchise rights(3)





1,160

 Gain on settlement of preexisting contract with acquiree(4)





(2,059)

 Transaction fees and acquisition-related costs(5)

525



4,948

 Loss on extinguishment of debt(6)





1,583

 Loss (gain) on adjustment of allowance for credit losses on held-to-maturity investments(7)

265



(1,845)

 Dividend income on held-to-maturity investments(8)

(463)



(914)

 Pre-opening costs(9)

783

481

1,439

847 Legal matters(10)

898

(325)

951

(2,500) Tax benefit arrangement remeasurement(11)

(83)



(3,871)

(348) Other(12)

500

54

1,600

688 Purchase accounting amortization(13)

10,781

4,159

19,299

8,318 Adjusted income before income taxes

$ 47,027

$ 24,769

$ 86,367

$ 37,135 Adjusted income taxes(14)

12,556

6,589

23,060

9,878 Adjusted net income

$ 34,471

$ 18,180

$ 63,307

$ 27,257

















Adjusted net income per share, diluted

$ 0.38

$ 0.21

$ 0.70

$ 0.31

















Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding(15)

91,343

87,200

90,503

87,188

(1) Represents the impact of revenue-related purchase accounting adjustments associated with the 2012 Acquisition. At the time of the 2012 Acquisition, the Company maintained a deferred revenue account, which consisted of deferred area development agreement fees, deferred franchise fees, and deferred enrollment fees that the Company billed and collected upfront but recognizes for U.S. GAAP purposes at a later date. In connection with the 2012 Acquisition, it was determined that the carrying amount of deferred revenue was greater than the fair value assessed in accordance with ASC 805Business Combinations, which resulted in a write-down of the carrying value of the deferred revenue balance upon application of acquisition push-down accounting under ASC 805. These amounts represent the additional revenue that would have been recognized in these periods if the write-down to deferred revenue had not occurred in connection with the application of acquisition pushdown accounting. (2) Represents the impact of rent-related purchase accounting adjustments. In accordance with guidance in ASC 805  Business Combinations, in connection with the 2012 Acquisition, the Company's deferred rent liability was required to be written off as of the acquisition date and rent was recorded on a straight-line basis from the acquisition date through the end of the lease term. This resulted in higher overall recorded rent expense each period than would have otherwise been recorded had the deferred rent liability not been written off as a result of the acquisition push down accounting applied in accordance with ASC 805. Adjustments of $45, $33, $90 and $82 in the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, reflect the difference between the higher rent expense recorded in accordance with U.S. GAAP since the acquisition and the rent expense that would have been recorded had the 2012 Acquisition not occurred. Adjustments of $64, $64, $129, and $132 in the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, are due to the amortization of favorable and unfavorable leases. All of the rent related purchase accounting adjustments are adjustments to rent expense which is included in store operations on our consolidated statements of operations. (3) Represents the impact of a non-cash loss recorded in accordance with ASC 805  Business Combinations related to our acquisition of franchisee-owned stores. The loss recorded under U.S. GAAP represents the difference between the fair value and the contractual terms of the reacquired franchise rights and is included in other (gains) losses, net on our consolidated statement of operations. (4) Represents a gain on settlement of deferred revenue from existing contracts with acquired franchisee-stores recorded in accordance with ASC 805  Business Combinations, and is included in other (gains) losses, net on our consolidated statement of operations. (5) Represents transaction fees and acquisition-related costs incurred in connection with our acquisition of franchisee-owned stores. (6) Represents a loss on extinguishment of debt in the six months ended June 30, 2022. (7) Represents a loss (gain) on the adjustment of the allowance for credit losses on the Company's held-to-maturity investments. (8) Represents dividend income on held-to-maturity investments. (9) Represents costs associated with new corporate-owned stores incurred prior to the store opening, including payroll-related costs, rent and occupancy expenses, marketing and other store operating supply expenses. (10) In the three and six months ended June 30, 2022, the amounts represent a reserve against an indemnification receivable related to a legal matter. In the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, the amounts represent an insurance recovery of previously recognized expenses related to the settlement of legal claims. (11) Represents gains related to the adjustment of our tax benefit arrangements primarily due to changes in our deferred state tax rate. (12) Represents certain other charges and gains that we do not believe reflect our underlying business performance. (13) Includes $3,096, $3,096, $6,192 and $6,192 of amortization of intangible assets, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, recorded in connection with the 2012 Acquisition, and $7,685, $1,063, $13,107, and $2,216 of amortization of intangible assets for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, recorded in connection with historical acquisitions of franchisee-owned stores. The adjustment represents the amount of actual non-cash amortization expense recorded, in accordance with U.S. GAAP, in each period. (14) Represents corporate income taxes at an assumed blended tax rate of 26.7% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 26.6% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, applied to adjusted income before income taxes. (15) Assumes the full exchange of all outstanding Holdings Units and corresponding shares of Class B common stock for shares of Class A common stock of Planet Fitness, Inc.

A reconciliation of net income per share, diluted, to Adjusted net income per share, diluted is set forth below for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021:



For the three months ended June 30, 2022

For the three months ended June 30, 2021 (in thousands, except per share amounts)

Net income

Weighted

Average

Shares

Net income

per share,

diluted

Net income

Weighted

Average

Shares

Net income

per share,

diluted Net income attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc.(1)

$ 22,342

85,197

$ 0.26

$ 14,010

83,837

$ 0.17 Assumed exchange of shares(2)

2,729

6,146





1,006

3,363



Net income

25,071









15,016







Adjustments to arrive at adjusted income before income taxes(3)

21,956









9,753







Adjusted income before income taxes

47,027









24,769







Adjusted income tax expense(4)

12,556









6,589







Adjusted net income

$ 34,471

91,343

$ 0.38

$ 18,180

87,200

$ 0.21

(1) Represents net income attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc. and the associated weighted average shares, diluted, of Class A common stock outstanding. (2) Assumes the full exchange of all outstanding Holdings Units and corresponding shares of Class B common stock for shares of Class A common stock of Planet Fitness, Inc. Also assumes the addition of net income attributable to non-controlling interests corresponding with the assumed exchange of Holdings Units and Class B common shares for shares of Class A common stock. (3) Represents the total impact of all adjustments identified in the adjusted net income table above to arrive at adjusted income before income taxes. (4) Represents corporate income taxes at an assumed blended tax rate of 26.7% and 26.6% for the three months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, applied to adjusted income before income taxes.





For the six months ended June 30, 2022

For the six months ended June 30, 2021 (in thousands, except per share amounts)

Net income

Weighted

Average

Shares

Net income

per share,

diluted

Net income

Weighted

Average

Shares

Net income

per share,

diluted Net income attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc.(1)

$ 38,806

84,919

$ 0.46

$ 19,591

83,771

$ 0.23 Assumed exchange of shares(2)

4,641

5,584





1,615

3,417



Net income

43,447









21,206







Adjustments to arrive at adjusted

income before income taxes(3)

42,920









15,929







Adjusted income before income taxes

86,367









37,135







Adjusted income tax expense(4)

23,060









9,878







Adjusted net income

$ 63,307

90,503

$ 0.70

$ 27,257

87,188

$ 0.31

(1) Represents net income attributable to Planet Fitness, Inc. and the associated weighted average shares, diluted of Class A common stock outstanding. (2) Assumes the full exchange of all outstanding Holdings Units and corresponding shares of Class B common stock for shares of Class A common stock of Planet Fitness, Inc. Also assumes the addition of net income attributable to non-controlling interests corresponding with the assumed exchange of Holdings Units and Class B common shares for shares of Class A common stock. (3) Represents the total impact of all adjustments identified in the adjusted net income table above to arrive at adjusted income before income taxes. (4) Represents corporate income taxes at an assumed blended tax rate of 26.7% and 26.6% for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, applied to adjusted income before income taxes.

SOURCE Planet Fitness, Inc.
Promoted with a national campaign starring Lauren Ridloff and co-developed with Prose's inaugural Haircare Advisory Board, the customized hair gel invites you to Curl Outside the Lines

NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Brooklyn-based DTC beauty-tech brand Prose launches Custom Styling Gel, the latest addition from this personalized haircare brand that offers made-to-order products tailored to each individual. This marks the first clean, yet highly efficacious custom multi-use styling gel on the market that provides endless versatility of style and adapts to your life, specific to where you live and your personal hair texture. To celebrate the launch and underscore the brand's commitment to inclusivity and personalization, Prose is introducing a new campaign, 'Curl Outside the Lines,' starring their first-ever brand ambassador, Lauren Ridloff  Curl Advocate and the first Deaf actress to play a Marvel superhero.

PROSE DEBUTS FIRST-TO-MARKET CLEAN, CUSTOM MULTI-USE STYLING GEL AND ENCOURAGES THEIR COMMUNITY TO CURL OUTSIDE THE LINES Prose's Custom Styling Gel "Curl Outside The Lines" campaign featuring Lauren Ridloff

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here:

https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9076051-prose-debuts-custom-styling-gel-with-lauren-ridloff/

Specifically formulated for curls and coils  the Prose Custom Styling Gel was co-developed in Paris over four phases in partnership with industry leaders including Curl Experts Giovanni Ferrer; The Quann Sisters, Cipriana Quann & TK Wonder; Founder of Naturally Curly, Michelle Breyer; and Hairstylist and Curl Expert, Ona Diaz-Santin. Moreover, these members, along with Celebrity Hairstylist and Founder of Hair Scholars, Camille Friend, form Prose's first Haircare Advisory Board.

The Styling Gel is powered by more than 97% of ingredients from natural origin including three star ingredients Aloe Vera, Okra and Sea Moss. Each aspect of the formula was carefully crafted to ensure desired level of hold, longevity of style, and versatility of looks while infusing hair with hydration, defining curls and preventing frizz. Free from alcohol and parabens, new Custom Styling Gel delivers results without compromising on its clean formula.

'Curl Outside the Lines' debuts this week across Prose's digital platforms, digital media and soon in out-of-home advertisements with video and select campaign imagery. The creative, featuring Lauren Ridloff, depicts a variety of unique curly and coiled hairstyles, juxtaposed against bold color backgrounds representing the brand's fun, expressive nature of curling outside the lines and a world of endless haircare possibilities. In a move that celebrates Prose's core values, the brand hopes to inspire its community to push the boundaries of self-expression, celebrate the individual, and not be held back by conventional beauty standards.

"At Prose, we believe that curls have no limits and we're proud to introduce this incredible new Custom Styling Gel, specifically catered to Curly & Coily hair types," says Prose Chief Marketing Officer, Megan Streeter. "We are honored to spotlight Lauren Ridloff in this campaign - she authentically embodies our 'Curl Outside the Lines' mantra in her everyday life and is an inspiring advocate for expressing individuality, and the freedom to style and experiment. We hope this helps encourage our community to continue using their hair as a form of personal expression."

"When my hair is natural and I have the freedom to play with it, I feel most comfortable," says Actor and Activist Lauren Ridloff. "Go big, go slicked back, go braided, go crazy. I honor my hair and that is how I style it. I love my hair. My hair doesn't understand rules, doesn't understand rigidity. It isn't wild or crazy or difficultmy hair is natural. And to be natural is revolutionary. That's why I'm thrilled to work with Prose, a company that celebrates all unique personalities, hair types, and expressive freedom."

Prose is a Certified B Corporation and continues to be recognized as a pioneer of personalization and sustainability within the beauty industry, with this latest launch reiterating the importance of individuality. Prose Custom Styling Gel ($30) is available in three hold levels (Soft, Medium, Strong), comes in a range of fragrance options made-to-order for you, and is now available for purchase across the United States and Canada on Prose.com. Take the Prose Consultation to create your bespoke formula here, and follow along for Custom Styling Gel and other brand news @prose.

About Prose:

Prose is a DTC beauty-tech brand known for creating custom, made-to-order hair products to disrupt the CPG industry. Prose shattered the notion that mass retail production is the only solution. Marrying a technology driven approach with an apothecary-style concept, Prose products are made-to-order and provide the highest quality of natural ingredients. The brand is committed to sustainable operations and is Climate Neutral, a Public Benefit Corporation and a Certified B Corporation.

SOURCE Prose
30 National Cyber Security Organizations Tap Into Intelligence Cloud for Global Cyber Defense

BOSTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Recorded Future, the world's largest intelligence company, today announced the launch of the National Cyber Defense Intelligence Kit for national cyber security organizations and governments to protect their critical infrastructure and mission-critical areas. Fueled with over a decade of human and machine intelligence combined with the most comprehensive dataset in the private industry, Recorded Future has the unique visibility on common national priorities that countries need to secure their infrastructure, assets, and data.

"Alliances are one of democracy's strongest weapons. They are a thing that autocrats don't have. Mutual support is what makes us strong. It is in all our interests to see cyber defense capabilities rise across the board, enabling allies to defend themselves and to defend each other. In the new gray zone of conflict, all of our threats connect. I'm proud that Recorded Future has taken a leading role in the vital task of helping our friends help themselves and thereby making us all stronger."  Sir Alex Younger, Former Chief of MI6

The scope of national security is constantly evolving based on which threat actors are targeting a country, newly identified vulnerabilities affecting critical assets, and the geopolitical landscape. Recorded Future's Intelligence Cloud uniquely provides a comprehensive composite as threats leave digital markers that can be collected, collated, contextualized, and delivered directly to technical defenses. Analysts are then enabled to rapidly investigate geopolitical, cyber, and influence operations threats. Over 30 national cyber defense organizations and over 150 government, defense, intelligence, and law enforcement organizations around the globe leverage Recorded Future's intelligence.

"With the diversity and escalation of threats to critical infrastructure and governments around the world, cybersecurity is now more than ever before a matter of national security. As such, intelligence is essential to keep up with the threats and expose adversaries. With Recorded Future's new intelligence kit, governments can identify and prioritize threats while collaborating and using common language to make global cyber defense stronger."  Yigal Unna, Former Director General of Israel National Cyber Directorate

The National Cyber Defense Intelligence Kit centralizes intelligence on specific industries and areas of interest, enabling analysts and leaders to quickly answer intelligence requirements, set up real-time alerts, and conduct deep investigations. The mission-critical areas the National Cyber Defense Intelligence Kit covers includes, but will not be limited to: Government, Utilities, Energy & Industrial Control Systems, Telecommunications, Elections, Finance, Defense, and Health.

"The convergence of threats - cyber, geopolitical and kinetic, and influence operations - demands a centralized view of the threat landscape, and we've built an expertise from working with governments and national security organizations for over a decade to manage their risk from a world of threats - whether it's state-sponsored cyber threats, physical warfare and geopolitical issues, disinformation campaigns, or even disruption to global supply chains."  Dr. Christopher Ahlberg, CEO and Co-Founder, Recorded Future

Learn more about the National Cyber Defense Intelligence Kit and request a demo of the Intelligence Cloud Platform at go.recordedfuture.com/demo .

About Recorded Future

Recorded Future is the world's largest intelligence company. Recorded Future's cloud-based Intelligence Platform provides the most complete coverage across adversaries, infrastructure, and targets. By combining persistent and pervasive automated data collection and analytics with human analysis, Recorded Future provides real-time visibility into the vast digital landscape and empowers clients to take proactive action to disrupt adversaries and keep their people, systems, and infrastructure safe. Headquartered in Boston with offices and employees around the world, Recorded Future works with more than 1,400 businesses and government organizations across more than 60 countries. Learn more at recordedfuture.com.

SOURCE Recorded Future
Elizabeth Singh is set to direct the upcoming film telling the story of mental health and trauma and giving a voice to the diverse minority

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Never Strangers, a new LGBTQI+ dark drama film starring Jared Becker (Reveille, Sorry For My Loss) and Rebekah Kennedy (Law & Order: SVU , Station 19, Criminal Minds), is set to begin filming later this fall. Elizabeth Singh (Sins in the Suburbs, Secrets on Campus) will bring the story to life in her full length film directorial debut.

Jared Becker Rebekah Kennedy

The film's plot centers around Becker as Alex O'Neal, who is struggling with the loss of his husband after a tragic accident. In order to find the turning point in his life, Alex seeks out a unlikely friend in Rebekah Kennedy's Kate. The movie delves into the struggle of survivor's guilt and acute hallucinations while Alex embarks on a journey of rediscovering what life means to him with an unexpected new friendship.

Kennedy, no stranger to darker roles, will assist Alex on his journey to confront his demons while also fighting her own past.

"This film is unlike something I've seen or worked on before", says Jared Becker. "Having a film that dives into the darker elements of mental health and the struggles one goes through is emotionally captivating."

"I was profoundly drawn to this film and this character," says Kennedy. "Mental health is something that can be really frightening to address, but I believe the more we can showcase the struggles someone has we can reduce the stigma that surrounds it."

The film's goal is to do more than just entertain, but also give exposure and respect to a community who is underrepresented. The story will blend a compelling and provoking narrative about love, loss and hope into an often dismissed genre.

The film is produced by Mind2Sight.

Never Strangers was written by Jared Becker and Elizabeth Singh. Matthew Golden joins the team as Executive Producer.

About Mind2Sight:

Mind2Sight was created by Elizabeth Singh in 2020 to produce immersive community based story telling. The production company is led by diverse creatives that are committed to building stories based on human connection, community and relatability.

About Jared Becker :

Jared Becker was raised in Du Quoin, Illinois, Jared Becker is an actor, writer and producer. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Marketing and Master's Degree in Project Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Recently, Becker has written, produced, and starred in multiple films including Sorry for My Loss, For Whom the Bell Tolls, and his latest feature film Reveille will premiere in early spring 2023.

Becker is represented by Courtney Peldon of Aqua Talent and Diana Bassett of DBPR.

About Rebekah Kennedy :

Rebekah Kennedy is a Los Angeles based actor with Texas roots. Her credits include guest starring on Law & Order SVU, Criminal Minds, and Station 19. She can also be seen in Netflix's To The Bone with Keanu Reeves, Season of The Witch with Nicolas Cage, and starring in the horror films Bastard and House Hunting.

Her upcoming film 'Two Witches' is set to release this October. She most recently wrapped The Veil with Sean O'Bryan and The Unseen with RJ Mitte.

Rebekah is represented by ATB and Advanced Management.

Media Contact:

Diana Bassett

DBPR

[email protected]

516.697.7677

SOURCE Jared Becker
NEW YORK, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of SOL tokens ("SOL securities") between March 24, 2020 and the present, inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important September 6, 202 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action lawsuit against Solana Labs, Inc., the Solana Foundation, Anatoly Yakovenko, Multicoin Capital Management LLC, Kyle Samani, and FalconX LLC (together, "Defendants").

SO WHAT: If you purchased SOL securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the SOL class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=7539 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 6, 2022. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually handle securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, Solana issues securities that are required to be, but are not, registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Throughout the Class Period, defendants promoted SOL securities (SOL tokens) and sold them to investors, who has suffered losses from purchasing SOL securities.

To join the SOL class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=7539 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] or [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
WENTZVILLE, Mo., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The fastest growing school district in Missouri has announced it will be expanding its educational pathways for high school students by partnering with ScholarPath, a new education platform designed to help local teens pursue a future true to their interests and passions.

The Wentzville School District (WSD), serving five cities in an 89-square mile area of Saint Charles County, has entered into an agreement with St. Peters-based ScholarPath to help connect students directly with colleges, employers and recruiters to identify their best next steps and find optimal post-graduation opportunities. As students explore their interests on the ScholarPath platform, they will see the classes and grades needed to meet their goals, along with available scholarships and post-high school training programs.

"Wentzville School District strives to be a model of excellence that sets the standard and maximizes the potential of every student," said WSD Superintendent Dr. Danielle Tormala. "This new partnership with ScholarPath will not only further our aspiration to excel academically, but also to be at the forefront of technology implementation that aligns with our fiscally responsible growth."

The ScholarPath platform seeks to match students with various organizations, whether they be focused on specific trades, local employers, higher education colleges and universities, or the military.

"The assistance we offer students is increasingly essential in a society where career, school and candidate options are abundant and potentially overwhelming," said ScholarPath CEO Doug Mitchell. "We are excited to be adding Wentzville to the growing list of school districts that prioritize student development and see value in ScholarPath's approach for matching and propelling them into rewarding next steps after their graduation."

WSD, which has been adding about 500 students per year during the last 20 years, now has about 17,400 students in grades K-12 who attend one of 22 schools, including four senior high schools. It ranks as the ninth largest school district in Missouri.

About ScholarPath

MyScholar's ScholarPath is a workforce development social network tool for high school students. By building an ecosystem for students, colleges, employers and the military, ScholarPath is changing how high school students plan their future and how high school talent is recruited. The organization helps high school students find their right path, whether that be college, the workforce, or the military. Founded by an experienced team of educators and technologists, ScholarPath launched in multiple St. Louis high schools during the 2020/2021 school year, in conjunction with area chambers of commerce, employers, unions and the military. To learn more about ScholarPath's mission, visit www.scholarpath.com .

SOURCE ScholarPath
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Juan Monteverde, founder and managing partner of the class action firm Monteverde & Associates PC (the "M&A Class Action Firm"), a national securities firm rated Top 50 in the 2018-2021 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report and headquartered at the Empire State Building in New York City, is investigating Professional Holding Corp. (PFHD), relating to its proposed acquisition by Seacoast Banking Corp of Florida. Under the terms of the merger, RBCN shareholders are expected to receive 0.8909 shares of Seacoast per share they own. Click here for more information: https://www.monteverdelaw.com/case/professional-holding-corp. It is free and there is no cost or obligation to you.



About Monteverde & Associates PC

We are a national class action securities litigation law firm that has recovered millions of dollars and is committed to protecting shareholders from corporate wrongdoing. We were listed in the Top 50 in the 2018-2021 ISS Securities Class Action Services Report. Our lawyers have significant experience litigating Mergers & Acquisitions and Securities Class Actions. Mr. Monteverde is recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Securities Litigation in 2013, 2017-2019, an award given to less than 2.5% of attorneys in a particular field. He has also been selected by Martindale-Hubbell as a 2017-2021 Top Rated Lawyer. Our firm's recent successes include changing the law in a significant victory that lowered the standard of liability under Section 14(e) of the Exchange Act in the Ninth Circuit. Thereafter, our firm successfully preserved this victory by obtaining dismissal of a writ of certiorari as improvidently granted at the United States Supreme Court. Emulex Corp. v. Varjabedian, 139 S. Ct. 1407 (2019). Also, in 2019 we recovered or secured six cash common funds for shareholders in mergers & acquisitions class action cases.

If you own common stock in PFHD and wish to obtain additional information and protect your investments free of charge, please visit our website or contact Juan E. Monteverde, Esq. either via e-mail at [email protected] or by telephone at (212) 971-1341.

Contact:

Juan E. Monteverde, Esq.

MONTEVERDE & ASSOCIATES PC

The Empire State Building

350 Fifth Ave. Suite 4405

New York, NY 10118

United States of America

[email protected]

Tel: (212) 971-1341

Attorney Advertising. (C) 2022 Monteverde & Associates PC. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Monteverde & Associates PC ( www.monteverdelaw.com ). Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.

SOURCE Monteverde & Associates PC
NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Root Brands has partnered with the International Science Nutrition Society (ISNS) to do third party testing and collaborations with scientists, doctors, researchers, hospitals, and companies, in science and nutrition. Focusing on education and research in the areas of the environment, health, wellness, medicine, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, nutrition, biotech, phytology, and ecology.

ISNS acquires and shares knowledge while providing emotional, mental, and spiritual expertise through a mind, body, spirit and soul approach platform. ISNS is comprised of world-renowned doctors, healthcare professionals, and research scientists with extensive backgrounds in the science, nutrition, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries.

It is important to ISNS's founder, Dr. Christina Rahm, a mother of four, that ISNS offers memberships to any individual interested in science and nutrition. Dr. Rahm states, "Every loving and caring mother and father can be scientist and nutrition experts. They need to be to take care of their family. There is nothing that makes individuals want to gain knowledge more than trying to help others through improved health. ISNS welcomes all individuals dedicated to this endeavor of betterment of self and others."

This community was created on the principle that the science behind nutrition is often demoted to addressing problems without solving the root cause of the issue. ISNS is an evidence-based society where science is integrated into all areas of health and wellness. The members have access to the latest research and case studies in these areas. ISNS also provides opportunities for research and grants with an extensive library of resources on natural ingredients, minerals, vitamins, and plants. The Root Brands has partnered with ISNS for case studies, scientific guidance, research and education. Root's founder, Clayton Thomas states, "I partnered with ISNS to get third-party testing and case studies done on products internationally. Due to ISNS's global reach, they have been able to conduct a great deal of work on products which will be beneficial to consumers all over the world."

ISNS is a membership only community, encompassing medical professionals, students, mothers, academics, healthcare providers, scientists, and researchers worldwide. There are three levels of membership: basic, associate, and professional. To register and to learn: sciencenutritionsociety.com

Socials:

Website - sciencenutritionsociety.com

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/people/International-Science-Nutrition-Society/100064003034292/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/sciencenutritionsociety

Media Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE The Root Brands
New Purpose-Built Ship Sails First Voyage on the Mekong River

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Viking (www.viking.com) today announced that its newest river ship, the Viking Saigon, has begun its inaugural season in Southeast Asia. Purpose-built for the Mekong River, the 80-guest ship sails between Kampong Cham, Cambodia and My Tho, Vietnam as part of Viking's popular 15-day Magnificent Mekong itinerary. With the 2022-2023 season now underway, regular sailing dates are available through March 2023; the 2023-2024 season begins in July 2023.

Viking today announced that its newest river ship, the Viking Saigon, pictured here near My Tho, Vietnam, has begun its inaugural season in Southeast Asia. The 80-guest ship sails between Kampong Cham, Cambodia and My Tho, Vietnam as part of Vikings popular 15-day Magnificent Mekong itinerary. For more information, visit www.viking.com. The Lobby on the Viking Saigon, Vikings newest river ship in Southeast Asia. Purpose-built for the Mekong River, the ship hosts 80 guests in 40 outside staterooms. For more information, visit www.viking.com. An Explorers Suite on the Viking Saigon, Vikings newest river ship purpose-built for the Mekong River. Featuring the clean Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, all staterooms feature hotel-style beds and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a Veranda or French Balcony. For more information, visit www.viking.com. The Sky Bar on the Viking Saigon, Vikings newest river ship purpose-built for the Mekong River. In addition to the open-air Sky Bar on the Upper Deck, guests on the Viking Saigon also enjoy a Spa & Fitness Center and Infinity Pool. For more information, visit www.viking.com. The Restaurant on the Viking Saigon, Vikings newest river ship purpose-built for the Mekong River. For more information, visit www.viking.com.

"The fascinating cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia have always made this region a favorite destination among our guests," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "We are also pleased to welcome back to Southeast Asia our first guests since early 2020. With arrival of the Viking Saigon, we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to this iconic waterway in the coming years."

The Viking Saigon

Purpose-built for the Mekong River, the new Viking Saigon hosts 80 guests in 40 outside staterooms. Featuring the clean Scandinavian design for which Viking is known, all staterooms have hotel-style beds and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with a Veranda or French Balcony. Guests on the three-deck Viking Saigon also enjoy a Spa & Fitness Center, Infinity Pool and open-air Sky Bar on the Upper Deck.

Magnificent Mekong

During this 15-day journey, guests explore the cultural treasures of Vietnam and Cambodia with 16 guided tours. Hotel stays in Hanoi, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) bracket an eight-day Mekong River voyage on this unique itinerary, during which guests can enjoy exploring the Old Quarter of Hanoi and attending a performance by Apsara dancers; tasting the distinctive fresh ingredients from bustling markets and local restaurants; wandering the Khmer temple complex of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; visiting Ta Prohm, where jungle vines embrace ancient ruins; and seeing the sights of Phnom Penh by cyclo rickshaw. On the river voyage portion of the itinerary, guests can discover silk towns, fishing villages, monasteries and floating markets.

Booking Details

From now through August 31, 2022, Viking is offering special savings on select river and ocean voyages, with a limited-time $25 deposit as part of the company's 25th Anniversary Sale. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel advisor for details.

Media Assets

For more information, images, and b-roll for Viking, contact [email protected].

About Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking PersonSM. Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being the first cruise line ever to be simultaneously named the #1 Ocean Line and #1 River Line in Travel + Leisure's 2022 "World's Best" Awards. Viking was also rated the #1 River Line and #1 Ocean Line by Conde Nast Traveler in the publication's 2021 Readers' Choice Awards. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking's award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.

SOURCE Viking
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Unilever PLC (NYSE: UL) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

This lawsuit is on behalf of all persons who purchased or otherwise acquired Unilever American Depositary Receipts between September 2, 2020 and July 21, 2021, inclusive.

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: August 15, 2022

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in UL:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/unilever-plc-loss-submission-form?id=30640&from=4

Unilever PLC NEWS - UL NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Unilever PLC made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: a) in July 2020, the board of Ben & Jerry's, one of Unilever's marquee brands, passed a resolution to end sales of its ice cream in "Occupied Palestinian Territory" ; and b) this boycott decision risked adverse governmental actions for violations of laws, executive orders, or resolutions aimed at discouraging boycotts, divestment, and sanctions of Israel adopted by 35 U.S. states.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Unilever you have until August 15, 2022 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Unilever securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the UL lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/unilever-plc-loss-submission-form?id=30640&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

Empire State Building

350 Fifth Avenue

59th Floor

New York, NY 10118

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
SINGAPORE, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- XT.com , the world's first social infused digital assets trading platform, is proud to announce its upcoming listing of the K-POP CLICK (KPC) token with USDT trading pair on August 9, 2022, at 09:00 (UTC). Soon, traders on the platform will have a new trading option added to their portfolios. The token will be listed with higher liquidity on the platform's Innovative Zone (Metaverse) for everyone and will provide benefits for newcomers who have never traded the token before.

K-POP CLICK (KPC) is a subsidiary platform of K-POP, a mainstream music and content platform that originated in South Korea. K-POP CLICK is designed to promote K-POP and the excellence of Korean content through blockchain technology. KPC functions as a utility token to facilitate all the transactions on the platform. It can be staked, mined, held, and used to pay for goods and services.

Alongside listing the KPC token for trading, users will be able to stake, hold, mine, and do transactions with the token and receive a good return when it goes live. By expanding its crypto listing arm, XT.com is poised to bridge the gap in the market when it comes to onboarding innovative digital assets for its users, whilst also ensuring the simplest and most accessible way to trade crypto for participants who trade on its platform.

Traders are encouraged to begin depositing their crypto holdings on August 8, 2022, at 9:00 (UTC) in order to gain access and trade KPC/USDT. Regardless of the user's location, everyone can fund their spot trading wallet as the listing is speedily approaching. Moreover, beginning on August 10, 2022, at 9:00 (UTC), traders will have full access to the withdrawal option.

Jonathan Shih, the Head of MEA (Middle East & Africa) at XT.com, stated, "We are ramping up our workforce to list the KPC token on our platform soon. We see this listing as a logical progression in the mainstream adoption of cryptocurrency and expand our help in advancing K-POP CLICK's mission to stimulate innovation in the Korean music and content creation industry through blockchain."

About K-POP CLICK (KPC)

K-POP CLICK is a subsidiary company of K-POP, a popular South Korean music platform with top-notch artists and content creators from all over the world. K-POP CLICK was designed to promote K-POP and to bring the complete perfection of the Korean music industry and content creation utilizing blockchain technology. Moreover, it intends to protect the rights and interests of creators with intuitive support of the policy that governs them.

Website: https://kpopclick.com/en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kpop_click?lang=en

About XT.com

By consistently expanding its ecosystem, XT.com is dedicated to providing users with the most secure, trusted, and hassle-free digital asset trading services. Our exchange is built from a desire to give everyone access to digital assets regardless where you are.

Founded in 2018, XT.com now serves more than 4.5 million registered users, over 500,000+ monthly active users, and 30+ million users in the ecosystem. Covering a rich variety of trading categories together with an NFT aggregated marketplace, our platform strives to cater to its large user base by providing a secure, trusted, and intuitive trading experience.

As the world's first social infused digital assets trading platform, XT.com also supports social networking platform based transactions to make our crypto services more accessible to users all over the world. Furthermore, to ensure optimal data integrity and security, we see user security as our top priority at XT.com.

Website: https://www.xt.com/

Telegram: https://t.me/XTsupport_EN

Twitter: https://twitter.com/XTexchange

SOURCE XT.com
Recognized for the seventh consecutive year among top-tier private companies leading the way in cloud technology

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Yardi has been named to the Forbes 2022 Cloud 100, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures. Yardi was a member of the inaugural Cloud 100 in 2016 and is No. 51 this year.

"We're honored that Forbes has again recognized Yardi for our cloud technology and services," said Jay Shobe, senior vice president of cloud services at Yardi. "Congratulations to all the cloud technology leaders that made this year's list. It reflects the efforts of our employees and the incredible support of our clients worldwide."

For the seventh straight year, the Cloud 100 reviewed submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people and culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help of a judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers.

"The companies of the Cloud 100 list represent the best and brightest private companies in this fast-growing sector," said Alex Konrad, senior editor at Forbes. "Every year, it gets more difficult to make this list  meaning even more elite company for those who do. Congratulations to each of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees."

"The public markets may be in turmoil, but the private valuations of the Cloud 100 continue to rise. All the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees, again, have reached the $1 billion valuation milestone, and the average Cloud 100 valuation has skyrocketed to $7.4 billion," said Mary D'Onofrio, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners. "Despite the market correction in 2022, our confidence in the cloud economy continues to growtoday over 70% of the 2022 Cloud 100 Honorees have reached or exceeded $100 million in annual recurring revenue making them cloud Centaurs. An additional 10% of the list is expected to hit this milestone by the end of the year, furthering our conviction that this years' honorees truly represent the best cloud companies globally."

"Great companies are born out of all environments, and it's exciting to see the continued momentum in the cloud sector," said Alex Kayyal, Managing Partner, Salesforce Ventures. "The companies on this list have gone through a rigorous selection process and join an esteemed alumni list of Cloud 100 companies. As the need for digital transformation continues to drive innovation and efficiencies across industries, we can look to these companies as the absolute best in cloud computing."

The Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 is published online at forbes.com/cloud100 and will appear in the August/September 2022 issue of Forbes magazine.

About Yardi

Yardi develops and supports industry-leading investment and property management software for all types and sizes of real estate companies. With 8,000 employees, Yardi is working with our clients globally to drive significant innovation in the real estate industry. For more information on how Yardi is Energized for Tomorrow, visit yardi.com.

Bessemer Venture Partners

Bessemer Venture Partners helps entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to build and forge long-standing companies. With more than 135 IPOs and 200 portfolio companies in the enterprise, consumer and healthcare spaces, Bessemer supports founders and CEOs from their early days through every stage of growth. Bessemer's global portfolio includes Pinterest, Shopify, Twilio, Yelp, LinkedIn, PagerDuty, DocuSign, Wix, Fiverr and Toast and has $19 billion of regulatory assets under management. Bessemer has teams of investors and partners located in Tel Aviv, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York, London, Boston, Beijing and Bangalore. Born from innovations in steel more than a century ago, Bessemer's storied history has afforded its partners the opportunity to celebrate and scrutinize its best investment decisions (see Memos) and also learn from its mistakes (see Anti-Portfolio).

About Forbes

Forbes champions success by celebrating those who have made it, and those who aspire to make it. Forbes convenes and curates the most influential leaders and entrepreneurs who are driving change, transforming business and making a significant impact on the world. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 150 million people worldwide through its trusted journalism, signature LIVE and Forbes Virtual events, custom marketing programs and 47 licensed local editions in 80 countries. Forbes Media's brand extensions include real estate, education and financial services license agreements.

Salesforce Ventures

Salesforce Ventures helps enterprising founders build companies that reinvent the way the world works. Since 2009, we've invested in and partnered with more than 400 of the world's most tenacious enterprise software companies from seed to IPO, including Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, Guild Education, Hopin, monday.com, nCino, Snowflake, Snyk, Stripe, Tanium, and Zoom. Salesforce Ventures leverages our decades of expertise in the cloud and our long-term relationships with key decision-makers at thousands of businesses around the world to give our portfolio companies an unfair advantage, help them build credibility, and accelerate growth. Salesforce Ventures has invested in more than 25 countries with offices all over the world including in San Francisco, Irvine, New York, London, Tokyo, and Sydney. Follow @SalesforceVC and learn more at salesforceventures.com.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/737275/Yardi_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Yardi
HARRISONBURG, Va., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Like teaching a child to ride a bike, sending your student off to college requires a delicate balance of knowing when to hold on and when to let go. Dr. David Onestak, director of the James Madison University Counseling Center shares advice heard often from "veteran" parents on how "new" parents can help students survive the turbulent waters of freshman year.

Sending your student off to college requires a delicate balance of knowing when to hold on and when to let go. Tweet this Parents can do a lot to help their students survive the turbulent waters of the freshman year.

Convey confidence. Students' bravado as they head off to college normally masks fears and doubts. Parental encouragement is more important than students typically acknowledge. Avoid "New Leaf Syndrome." Rather than turning over a new leaf, the transition to college frequently causes old problems to reemerge. Students with a history of mental health concerns should maintain relationships with their providers and continue with prescribed therapies. Help your student take greater ownership of health-related matters such as taking over-the-counter medications, making an appointment, and learning the basics of health insurance. Keep the lines of communication open. When parents respond too harshly to a student's mistake, the student may no longer offer important information about grades, roommate problems or dating relationships. As a result, minor problems may become major crises. Don't rush in and solve problems. Students often don't step up to responsibility until parents step back. Students need the experience of solving problems on their own. Be realistic about grades. Students are going to be faced with difficult and demanding coursework. Not every straight-A student in high school will be a straight-A student in college. Use technology to connect, not monitor. Talk with your student about how and how often to touch base. If you are using tracking devices to monitor your student, consider relinquishing them. Doing so communicates that the world is not continuously dangerous and that you trust them to make good decisions. Don't rush your student into a major or career. Most eighteen-year-olds do not have the wisdom required to be definite about such an important decision. Pushing them into a major or a career in which there is no interest is a recipe for problems. Talk about finances. Let your student know what you will and will not contribute to college expenses. Help them to develop a budget. If your student requests a credit card for "emergencies," a good rule of thumb is: If you can eat it, drink it, or wear it, it's not an emergency. Inform your student about important family matters, even if the news is not good. While there is no need to share every family issue, keeping developments from students can make them anxious as they imagine what else might be happening back home without their knowledge. Remind yourself that the character you worked to develop will continue to guide them. Students often experiment with values that might be more permissive than the ones at home; this is a normal part of developing identity and independence apart from their parents. Try to bend a little.

SOURCE James Madison University
Feature-packed release delivers an intuitive interface and seamless experience across iOS and Android platforms

TORONTO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- 1Password , the leader in human-centric security and privacy, today unveiled 1Password 8 for iOS and Android, marking the completion of the 1Password 8 roll-out across all supported devices. With a modern design, streamlined productivity features and intuitive security protections, the next generation of 1Password for mobile brings more feature parity between the desktop and mobile apps than ever before. It enables seamless security on the go, making it even easier for anyone to protect their digital life, without hassle, from whichever device they prefer.

"1Password is relentlessly focused on making it easy for anyone to get more done online while staying safe. As we increasingly live and work on our phones, it's essential to provide robust device security that flows just as naturally as the apps we rely on," said Jeff Shiner, CEO of 1Password. "1Password 8 for iOS and Android ushers in a new era for our mobile apps  enabling greater personalization, deepening our human-centric platform and helping to eliminate the headache of logins on mobile devices. Importantly, our updated app reflects our commitment to ensuring people have a seamless experience across all devices and platforms."

The phone is the center of many of our digital lives. People conduct critical activities on their phones, from banking to workplace communications, and the average adult spends nearly four and a half hours each day on mobile devices.

Today's version of 1Password 8 for mobile takes into account direct customer feedback that was gathered during the early access launches of 1Password 8 for iOS and Android earlier this year, to continue raising the bar for usability. Enhancements include:

Productivity - more intuitive features to help users get more done, faster.

Access items immediately : Highlight favorites, see recently created items, pin specific fields from a login and more.

: Highlight favorites, see recently created items, pin specific fields from a login and more. Manage sensitive information quickly and easily: Login credentials and sensitive information are automatically created and saved in 1Password, allowing users to seamlessly autofill passwords, credit card information, addresses and more into apps and websites.

Login credentials and sensitive information are automatically created and saved in 1Password, allowing users to seamlessly autofill passwords, credit card information, addresses and more into apps and websites. Provide search suggestions: 1Password will automatically suggest potential item matches as users type in search terms, helping them to find what they need, fast.

Security and Privacy - helps users stay ahead on their online security and easily improve protections.

Refreshed notifications enable easy security updates : The new Watchtower dashboard provides actionable alerts and a holistic view of security risks and vulnerabilities, making it easy for 1Password admins and users to protect themselves by quickly identifying and updating weak passwords, inactive 2FA and compromised passwords that put them at risk.

: The new Watchtower dashboard provides actionable alerts and a holistic view of security risks and vulnerabilities, making it easy for 1Password admins and users to protect themselves by quickly identifying and updating weak passwords, inactive 2FA and compromised passwords that put them at risk. Unlock with biometrics: Using Face ID or a fingerprint on their devices allows users to securely and conveniently access 1Password.

Modern Design - enables users to experience 1Password in the way that visually works for them, including Dark Mode.

Customize 1Password with a new home screen: Allows users to personalize their 1Password experience by highlighting favorites, reordering sections and adding quick actions.

Allows users to personalize their 1Password experience by highlighting favorites, reordering sections and adding quick actions. Find items even more quickly: An updated always-on navigation bar allows users to quickly access their home screen, search for items, and open Watchtower or app settings. It also includes new item icons, typography, detailed views for items and vaults and more.

For more information about 1Password 8 for mobile (iOS and Android), visit this blog post , or download it from your app store.

About 1Password

1Password's human-centric approach to security keeps people safe, at work and at home. 1Password is the only solution built from the ground up to enable anyone  no matter the level of technical proficiencyto navigate the digital world without fear or friction. The company's award-winning credentials management security platform is re-shaping the future of authentication and is trusted by over 100,000 businesses, including IBM, Slack, Snowflake, Shopify, and Under Armour. 1Password protects the most sensitive information of millions of individuals and families across the globe, helping consumers and businesses get more done in less time  with security and privacy as a given. Learn more at 1Password.com .

SOURCE 1Password
Ethereum, Decentral, & Jaxx Liberty Founder also announces $1M Foundation for Canadian Leaders & Problem Solvers

TORONTO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Ethereum, Decentral, & Jaxx Liberty Founder Anthony Di Iorio today announced the whitelist opening for Andiami: The Quest for Liberty, an upcoming global tech project designed to add value to and complement today's leading decentralized network projects like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The announcement was made during Di Iorio's opening keynote speech at Futurist Conference, Canada's largest crypto & blockchain event.

Anthony Di Iorio (CNW Group/Decentral Inc.) Andiami: The Quest for Liberty will be unveiled on November 3, 2022. (CNW Group/Decentral Inc.)

With ten years of design, vision, and building, Andiami will address crypto's most pressing issues, including the increasing centralization of decentralized networks and the prevalent use of Web2 business models in the pursuit of Web3, a user-controlled internet. Andiami will accomplish its goals by bringing together trusted leadership, aligned stakeholder incentives, and new custom hardware and software. This will all be delivered on scalable infrastructure, a new node-sharing protocol, a unique type of mining, and next-generation token economics.

"The future can't be built using old models," says Anthony Di Iorio. "Similarly, you can't build a user-controlled internet while relying on institutional trust anywhere in between an individual and a protocol. Andiami is the culmination of a mission I started ten years ago to empower people with the tools they need to be in control of their digital lives: their money, communication, and identity."

Andiami: The Quest for Liberty is planned to be unveiled November 3, 2022ten years to the day that Di Iorio held the first-ever Bitcoin meetup in Toronto where he met Vitalik Buterin. The unveiling will take place in front of an audience of thousands at a soon-to-be announced iconic Canadian concert venue in Toronto and will also be live streamed globally.

The Andiami whitelist is now open at andiami.org.

Also at the Futurist conference today, Di Iorio announced the creation of a Canadian foundation dedicated to amplifying the next generation of leaders and problem solvers to help solve the world's most pressing challenges. Di Iorio is personally donating $1 million to the foundation, which will also be supported by proceeds from the global project.

"Over the years, I've developed problem solving frameworks that put the pieces together to create win-win-win solutions. The frameworks have been formalized, and it's my mission to bring the tools forward that will inspire the next generation of problem solvers and leaders," says Di Iorio.

Di Iorio is an Ethereum founder and Founder and CEO of Decentral Inc. The original birthplace of Ethereum, Decentral is a Canadian company that builds tools at the core of the next internet. This includes Jaxx Liberty , software that has empowered millions of people with the tools they need to control their digital assets.

SOURCE Decentral Inc.
First half performance in line with the Board's expectations

LONDON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Avast plc (LSE: AVST), together with its subsidiaries ('Avast', 'the Group', 'Avast Group', or 'the Company'), a leading global cybersecurity provider, announces its results for the six-months ended 30 June 2022.

In the first half of 2022 the Group delivered mid-single digit organic billings growth1 with a good level of profitability.

RECOMMENDED MERGER OF AVAST PLC WITH NORTONLIFELOCK INC. ('NORTON')

On 3 August 2022 , the CMA published its provisional findings from its Phase 2 investigation into the Merger and provisionally concluded that the Merger is not expected to give rise to a substantial lessening of competition in the UK. Avast continues to work with Norton and the CMA to enable the CMA's final report to be issued as soon as practicable

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Billings at $483.7m up 0.2% at actual rates, or 6.9% on an organic basis

up 0.2% at actual rates, or 6.9% on an organic basis Adjusted Revenue 2 at $472.0m up 0.2% at actual rates, or 2.7% on an organic basis

at up 0.2% at actual rates, or 2.7% on an organic basis Consumer Direct Revenue at $407.1m up 1.4% at actual rates, or 2.7% on an organic basis

up 1.4% at actual rates, or 2.7% on an organic basis Adjusted EBITDA down 7.6% to $249.7m ; Adjusted EBITDA margin 3 at 52.9%, down 4.4 ppts, primarily driven by investment into Digital Trust Services ('DTS')

; Adjusted EBITDA margin at 52.9%, down 4.4 ppts, primarily driven by investment into Digital Trust Services ('DTS') Strong cash generation, with Unlevered Free Cash Flow of $217.1m (cash conversion 4 of 83%) and Levered Free Cash Flow of $204.3m

(cash conversion of 83%) and Levered Free Cash Flow of Adjusted fully diluted earnings per share ('EPS') down 14.1% to $0.17 (versus $0.20 at HY 2021)

(versus at HY 2021) The second interim dividend in respect of 2021 paid in February 2022 of 11.2 cents per share; total dividend for 2021 of 16.0 cents per share. Declared conditional interim dividend in respect of 2022 payable in August 2022 of 4.8 cents per share

of per share; total dividend for 2021 of per share. Declared conditional interim dividend in respect of 2022 payable in of per share Resilient balance sheet with $378.0m of cash and available liquidity 5

of cash and available liquidity Leverage remains low, Net debt / LTM ('last twelve months') Adjusted EBITDA at 1.3x at half year

On a statutory basis, Revenue down 0.2% due to disposal of Family Safety mobile business in 2021, Operating profit down $(54.2)m from $226.7m to $172.6m driven by higher exceptional costs of $25.3m and higher other costs of $27.8m , fully diluted EPS at $0.13 (versus $0.20 at HY 2021)

OPERATIONAL AND STRATEGIC UPDATES

Consumer Direct KPIs in the half reflect challenging global and competitive environment offset by Avast initiatives

Average Products Per Customer 6 increased 1.2% to 1.45

increased 1.2% to 1.45 Average Revenue Per Customer 7 was up 2.2% to $50.54

was up 2.2% to Number of Customers8 was down 4.4% to 15.64m

Key product initiatives in the first half of 2022

Avast One saw the introduction of features that support making Privacy easy (Private Mode, Smart VPN, VPN Kill Switch) and provide advanced Scam Protection (Email Guardian, Scam Protection for Android), as well as Online Safety Score, to drive customer engagement

SecureLine VPN saw the release of a beta version with the WireGuard VPN protocol, considered by many experts to be the fastest and most secure VPN protocol available

In terms of privacy, the team is experimenting with intelligent "scan lander" web pages that quickly show users a variety of privacy-related threats they may be vulnerable to

On SMB, Avast introduced three new product suites: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate Business Security, to simplify the buying experience, and launched USB Protection, a new service that safeguards company data by preventing employees from using unauthorised removable storage devices

Awards

In a study performed by AV-Comparatives, Avast Secure Browser has been ranked first with a 97% block rate (a two percent increase on the previous test in January)

Avast Business Antivirus Pro Plus was ranked 'Top Product' by AV-TEST, earning top scores on protection, performance, and usability

In March, Avast announced the withdrawal of the availability of all products from Russia and Belarus and suspended all marketing and sales operations in these countries

Avast completed the acquisition of SecureKey in April, a global provider of digital identity and authentication solutions. SecureKey complements Evernym's self-sovereign identity solutions and together they represent the foundation of Avast's DTS business

($'m) H1 2022 H1 2021 Change % Change %

(excluding FX) 9 Billings 483.7 482.7 0.2 4.7 Acquisitions 5.8 - n/a n/a Discontinued Russia and Belarus10 - 3.2 n/a n/a Disposal Family Safety mobile business 11 - 9.2 n/a n/a Discontinued Business10 6.4 9.3 (30.6) (30.4) Billings excl. Acquisitions, Disposals and Discontinued business 471.5 461.0 2.3 6.9

($'m) H1 2022 H1 2021 Change % Change %

(excluding FX) Adjusted Revenue 472.0 471.3 0.2 1.3 Acquisitions 6.6 - n/a n/a Discontinued Russia and Belarus - 1.0 n/a n/a Disposal Family Safety mobile business - 9.2 n/a n/a Discontinued Business 6.4 9.3 (30.6) (30.4) Adjusted Revenue excl. Acquisitions, Disposals and Discontinued business 458.9 451.8 1.6 2.7

($'m)

H1 2022 H1 2021 Change % Adjusted EBITDA

249.7 270.2 (7.6) Adjusted EBITDA Margin %

52.9 57.3 (4.4) ppts Adjusted Net Income

178.0 205.8 (13.5) Net Debt

649.7 527.0 23.3













Statutory Results:

($'m)

H1 2022 H1 2021 Change % Revenue

470.3 471.3 (0.2) Operating profit

172.6 226.7 (23.9) Net Income

141.0 205.8 (31.5) Net Cash Flows from operating activities

190.6 263.1 (27.6)

RECOMMENDED MERGER OF AVAST PLC WITH NORTONLIFELOCK INC.

On 10 August 2021, the Boards of NortonLifeLock, Inc. ("Norton") and the Company reached agreement on the terms of a recommended merger of the Company with Norton, in the form of a recommended offer by Nitro Bidco Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Norton, for the entire issued and to be issued ordinary share capital of the Company (the "Merger"). It is intended that the Merger will be affected by means of a Court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement under Part 26 of the Companies Act 2006. Further details relating to the offer by Norton is set out in the announcement made by Norton on 11 August 2021 pursuant to Rule 2.7 of the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers ("Code") and the scheme document published by the Company on 28 October 2021.

On 3 August 2022, the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (the "CMA") published its provisional findings that the Merger was not expected to give rise to a substantial lessening of competition in the UK and Norton and Avast published their response to the CMA's findings. As stated in that announcement, Norton intends to continue to work with the CMA and with Avast to enable the CMA's final report to be issued as soon as practicable. The statutory deadline for publication of the CMA's final report is 8 September 2022 (unless extended).

PUBLICATION

A copy of the half year report will shortly be available on the Company website at https://investors.avast.com.

ENQUIRIES

Investors and analysts:

Paul Carter and Anca Timpescu, Investor Relations

[email protected]

Media:

Stephanie Kane, VP PR and Corporate Communications

[email protected]

Tavistock

+44 20 7920 3150

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements that are subject to the usual risk factors and uncertainties associated with the Company's business. Whilst the Company believes the expectations reflected herein to be reasonable in the light of the information available to them at this time, the actual outcome may be materially different owing to factors beyond the Company's control or within the Company's control where, for example, the Company decides on a change of plan or strategy. Accordingly, no reliance may be placed on the figures contained in such forward-looking statements.

Notes:

Throughout the Half Year Report a number of alternative performance measures are used to provide users with a clearer picture of the performance of the business. This is in line with how management monitor and manage the business day-to-day. Definitions and details are provided below. Further definitions (see 'PRESENTATION OF RESULTS AND DEFINITIONS') and reconciliations (see 'FINANCIAL REVIEW') of non-GAAP measures are included in the notes to the financial statements.

All dollar figures throughout the report are at actual currency rates unless otherwise indicated.

1 Organic growth rate excludes the impact of FX, acquisitions, business disposals and discontinued business including discontinued sales in Russia and Belarus. It excludes current period billings and revenue of acquisitions until the first anniversary of their consolidation.

2 Adjusted Revenue represents the Group's reported revenue adjusted for the Deferred Revenue Haircut Reversal. Under IFRS 3, Business Combinations, an acquirer must recognise assets acquired and liabilities assumed at fair value as of the acquisition date. The process of determining the fair value of deferred revenues acquired often results in a significant downward adjustment to the target's book value of deferred revenues. The reversal of the downward adjustment to the book value of deferred revenues of companies the Group has acquired during the periods under review is referred to as the "Deferred Revenue Haircut Reversal".

3 Adjusted EBITDA margin percentage is defined as Adjusted EBITDA divided by Adjusted Revenue.

4 Cash conversion is defined as Unlevered Free Cash Flow divided by Adjusted Cash EBITDA.

5 Total available liquidity includes cash and cash equivalents balance as at 30 June 2022 of $338.0m and revolving credit facility of $40m (not drawn at 30 June 2022).

6 APPC defined as the Consumer Direct simple average valid licences or subscriptions for the period of the last twelve months divided by the simple average number of Customers during the same period.

7 ARPC defined as the Consumer Direct revenue for the period of the last twelve months divided by the simple average number of Customers during the same period.

8 Users who have at least one valid paid Consumer Direct subscription (or licence) at the end of the period.

9 Growth rate excluding currency impact calculated by restating 2022 actual to 2021 FX rates (see "Principal exchange rates applied"). Deferred revenue is translated to USD at the date of invoice and is therefore excluded when calculating the impact of FX on revenue.

10 Growth figures exclude Discontinued Business, which includes toolbar-related search distribution business and the browser clean-up, which had previously been an important contributor to AVG's revenues, and the Google Chrome Distribution business. Together these businesses are referred to above as "Discontinued Business". The Discontinued Business does not represent a discontinued operation as defined by IFRS 5 since it either has not been disposed of but rather it is being continuously scaled down or it is considered to be neither a separate major line of business, nor geographical area of operations. In H1 2022 the Group suspended its activities in Russia and Belarus in response to the military conflict in Ukraine. These sales, which do not represent a discontinued operation as defined by IFRS 5, are also excluded from the growth figures. These sales didn't represent a separate segment or operation of the Group.

11 On April 16, 2021 the Group sold a portfolio of mobile parental controls services including location features, content filtering and screen time management to Smith Micro Software Inc ('Family Safety mobile business'). Billings and revenue until close of the transaction have been excluded in the calculation of organic growth from the baseline.

SOURCE Avast Software, Inc.
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Barings BDC, Inc. (NYSE: BBDC) ("Barings BDC" or the "Company") today reported its financial and operating results for the second quarter of 2022 and announced that the Company's Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share.

Highlights

Income Statement Three Months Ended June 30, 2022 Three Months Ended March 31, 2022 (dollars in millions, except per share data) Total

Amount Per

Share(1) Total

Amount Per

Share(2) Net investment income $31.8 $0.29 $19.0 $0.23 Net realized losses $(10.2) $(0.09) $(1.4) $(0.02) Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) $(44.7) $(0.40) $3.5 $0.04 Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations $(25.0) $(0.23) $21.0 $0.25 Dividends paid $0.24 $0.23





(1) Based on weighted average shares outstanding during the period of 110,759,443. (2) Based on weighted average shares outstanding during the period of 82,656,326.

Investment Portfolio and Balance Sheet





(dollars in millions, except per share data) As of June 30, 2022 As of March 31, 2022 As of December 31, 2021 Investment portfolio at fair value $2,389.1 $2,403.4 $1,800.6 Weighted average yield on performing debt investments (at principal amount) 7.6 % 7.3 % 7.2 % Total assets $2,829.5 $2,849.4 $2,160.9 Debt outstanding (principal) $1,539.4 $1,482.2 $1,380.2 Total net assets (equity) $1,252.9 $1,317.6 $741.9 Net asset value per share $11.41 $11.86 $11.36 Debt-to-equity ratio 1.23x 1.12x 1.86x Net debt-to-equity ratio (adjusted for unrestricted cash and net unsettled transactions) 1.00x 0.89x 1.49x

Second Quarter 2022 Results

Commenting on the quarter, Eric Lloyd, Chief Executive Officer, stated, "Despite an uncertain macroeconomic backdrop, Barings BDC continued to drive net portfolio growth, increased revenue, and higher net investment income per share. Additionally, our shareholder friendly fee structure further demonstrates investor alignment in the face of unrealized write-downs resulting from increasing yields."

During the three months ended June 30, 2022, the Company reported total investment income of $55.6 million, net investment income of $31.8 million, or $0.29 per share, and a net decrease in net assets resulting from operations of $25.0 million, or $0.23 per share.

Net asset value ("NAV") per share as of June 30, 2022 was $11.41, as compared to $11.86 as of March 31, 2022. The decrease in NAV per share from March 31, 2022 to June 30, 2022 was primarily attributed to a net realized loss on investments and foreign currency transactions of $0.09 per share and net unrealized depreciation on the Company's investment portfolio, credit support agreements and foreign currency transactions of approximately $0.40 per share, partially offset by net investment income exceeding the Company's second quarter dividend by $0.05 per share.

Jonathan Bock, Chief Financial Officer, stated, "Our net debt-to-equity profile of 1.00x, as well as our flexible balance sheet, allow us to drive attractive returns across market cycles with best-in-class alignment and financial stability. As a result, our Board of Directors declared a third quarter dividend of $0.24 per share, or an 8.4% yield on 2Q22 net asset value of $11.41."

Recent Portfolio Activity

During the three months ended June 30, 2022, the Company made 26 new investments totaling $248.7 million, made investments in existing portfolio companies totaling $101.5 million and made additional investments in joint venture equity portfolio companies totaling $2.1 million. The Company had 17 loans repaid totaling $165.9 million, received $15.0 million of portfolio company principal payments and received $35.5 million of return of capital from our joint ventures. In addition, the Company sold $82.5 million of loans, recognizing a net realized loss on these transactions of $1.0 million. The Company had a $13.8 million exchange of a debt investment in one portfolio company for equity totaling $13.9 million and realized a $0.8 million loss on the exchange. Lastly, the Company received proceeds related to the sale of an equity investment totaling $0.2 million and recognized a net realized gain on such sale totaling $0.1 million.

During the three months ended June 30, 2022, the Company recorded net unrealized depreciation totaling $44.7 million, consisting of net unrealized depreciation on our current portfolio of $62.7 million, unrealized depreciation of $5.7 million on the MVC credit support agreement with Barings, unrealized depreciation of $7.7 million on the Sierra credit support agreement with Barings, net of unrealized appreciation reclassification adjustments of $0.9 million related to the net realized gains on the sales / repayments of certain investments and net unrealized appreciation related to foreign currency transactions of $30.5 million. The net unrealized depreciation on our current portfolio of $62.7 million was driven primarily by credit or fundamental performance of investments of $5.8 million, the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on investments of $24.5 million and broad market moves for investments of $32.4 million.

Liquidity and Capitalization

As of June 30, 2022, the Company had cash and foreign currencies of $197.8 million, $814.4 million of borrowings outstanding under its $1.1 billion senior secured revolving credit agreement and $725.0 million aggregate principal amount of unsecured notes outstanding. In addition, the Company had a net receivable from unsettled transactions of $86.6 million and commitments from an investor to purchase an additional $25.0 million aggregate principal amount of senior unsecured notes under its Note Purchase Agreement entered into on August 3, 2020 (the "August 2020 NPA"), subject to the terms of the August 2020 NPA.

Share Purchase Programs

In connection with the completion of the Company's acquisition of MVC Capital on December 23, 2020, the Company committed to make open-market purchases of shares of its common stock in an aggregate amount of up to $15.0 million at then-current market prices at any time shares trade below 90% of the Company's then most recently disclosed NAV per share. Any repurchases pursuant to the authorized program will occur during the 12-month period that commenced upon the filing of the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, which occurred on May 6, 2021, and will be made in accordance with applicable legal, contractual and regulatory requirements. The MVC repurchase program terminated on May 6, 2022. During the three months ended June 30, 2022, the Company did not purchase any shares of its common stock in the open market under the authorized program.

In connection with the completion of the Company's acquisition of Sierra on February 25, 2022, the Company committed to make open-market purchases of shares of its common stock in an aggregate amount of up to $30.0 million at then-current market prices at any time shares trade below 90% of the Company's then most recently disclosed NAV per share. Any repurchases pursuant to the authorized program will occur during the 12-month period commencing on April 1, 2022 and are expected to be made in accordance with a Rule 10b5-1 purchase plan that qualifies for the safe harbors provided by Rules 10b5-1 and 10b-18 under the Exchange Act, as well as subject to compliance with the Company's covenant and regulatory requirements. As of August 9 2022, the Company repurchased a total of 1,867,543 shares of its common stock in the open market under the authorized program at an average price of $9.81 per share, including broker commissions.

Dividend Information

The Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.24 per share.

The Company's third quarter dividend is payable as follows:

Third Quarter 2022 Dividend:

Amount per share: $0.24 Record date: September 7, 2022 Payment date: September 14, 2022

Dividend Reinvestment Plan

Barings BDC has adopted a dividend reinvestment plan ("DRIP") that provides for reinvestment of dividends and distributions on behalf of its stockholders, unless a stockholder elects to receive cash. As a result, when the Company declares a cash dividend or distribution, stockholders who have not opted out of the DRIP will have their cash dividends or distributions automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Company's common stock, rather than receiving cash.

When the Company declares and pays dividends and distributions, it determines the allocation of the distribution between current income, accumulated income, capital gains and return of capital on the basis of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("GAAP"). At each year end, the Company is required for tax purposes to determine the allocation based on tax accounting principles. Due to differences between GAAP and tax accounting principles, the portion of each dividend distribution that is ordinary income, capital gain or return of capital may differ for GAAP and tax purposes. The tax status of the Company's distributions can be found on the Investor Relations page of its website.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent to June 30, 2022, the Company made approximately $215.4 million of new commitments, of which $171.5 million closed and funded. The $171.5 million of investments consists of $159.8 million of first lien senior secured debt investments, $10.6 million of second lien senior secured and subordinated debt investments and $1.1 million of equity investments. The weighted average yield of the debt investments was 8.2%. In addition, the Company funded $11.6 million of previously committed delayed draw term loans.

Conference Call to Discuss Second Quarter 2022 Results

Barings BDC has scheduled a conference call to discuss second quarter 2022 financial and operating results for Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. ET.

To listen to the call, please dial 877-407-8831 or 201-493-6736 approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. A taped replay will be made available approximately two hours after the conclusion of the call and will remain available until August 24, 2022. To access the replay, please dial 877-660-6853 or 201-612-7415 and enter conference ID 13731195.

This conference call will also be available via a live webcast on the investor relations section of Barings BDC's website at https://ir.barings.com/ir-calendar. Access the website 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to download and install any necessary audio software. An archived webcast replay will be available on the Company's website until August 24, 2022.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements included herein or on the webcast/conference call may constitute "forward-looking statements," which relate to future events or Barings BDC's future performance or financial condition. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made, which reflect management's current estimates, projections, expectations or beliefs, and which are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the ability of Barings LLC to manage Barings BDC and identify investment opportunities, are subject to change at any time based upon economic, market or other conditions, including with respect to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on Barings BDC's and its portfolio companies' results of operations and financial condition, and may not be relied upon as investment advice or an indication of Barings BDC's trading intent. More information on these risks and other potential factors that could affect Barings BDC's financial results and future events, including important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from plans, estimates or expectations included herein or discussed on the webcast/conference call, is included in Barings BDC's filings with the SEC, including in the "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" sections of Barings BDC's most recently filed annual report on Form 10-K, as well as in subsequent filings, including Barings BDC's quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. In addition, there is no assurance that Barings BDC or any of its affiliates will purchase additional shares of Barings BDC at any specific discount levels or in any specific amounts. There is no assurance that the market price of Barings BDC's shares, either absolutely or relative to net asset value, will increase as a result of any share repurchases, or that any repurchase plan will enhance stockholder value over the long term.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To provide additional information about the Company's results, the Company's management has discussed in this press release the Company's net debt (calculated as total debt less unrestricted cash and foreign currencies (excluding restricted cash) and net receivables from unsettled transactions) and its net debt-to-equity ratio (calculated as net debt divided by total net assets), which are not prepared in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP measures are included to supplement the Company's financial information presented in accordance with GAAP and because the Company uses such measures to monitor and evaluate its leverage and financial condition and believes the presentation of these measures enhances investors' ability to analyze trends in the Company's business and to evaluate the Company's leverage and ability to take on additional debt. However, these non-GAAP measures have limitations and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the Company's financial results as reported under GAAP.

These non-GAAP measures are not in accordance with, or an alternative to, measures prepared in accordance with GAAP and may be different from non-GAAP measures used by other companies. In addition, these non-GAAP measures are not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles. These measures should only be used to evaluate the Company's results of operations in conjunction with their corresponding GAAP measures. Pursuant to the requirements of Item 10(e) of Regulation S-K, as promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Company has provided a reconciliation of these non-GAAP measures in the last table included in this press release.

About Barings BDC

Barings BDC, Inc. (NYSE: BBDC) is a publicly traded, externally managed investment company that has elected to be treated as a business development company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Barings BDC seeks to invest primarily in senior secured loans in middle-market companies that operate across a wide range of industries. Barings BDC's investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Barings LLC, a leading global asset manager based in Charlotte, NC with $349+ billion* of AUM firm-wide. For more information, visit www.baringsbdc.com .

About Barings LLC

Barings is a $349+ billion* global investment manager sourcing differentiated opportunities and building long-term portfolios across public and private fixed income, real estate, and specialist equity markets. With investment professionals based in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific, the firm, a subsidiary of MassMutual, aims to serve its clients, communities and employees, and is committed to sustainable practices and responsible investment. Learn more at www.barings.com.

*Assets under management as of June 30, 2022

Media Contact:

[email protected]

Investor Relations:

[email protected], 888-401-1088

Barings BDC, Inc.

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except share and per share data)



June 30,

2022

December 31,

2021

(Unaudited)



Assets:





Investments at fair value:





Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments (cost of $2,025,944 and $1,494,031 as of

June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively) $ 1,928,010

$ 1,490,113 Affiliate investments (cost of $307,332 and $267,967 as of June 30, 2022 and

December 31, 2021, respectively) 322,321

288,069 Control investments (cost of $105,791 and $25,826 as of June 30, 2022 and

December 31, 2021, respectively) 138,745

22,412 Total investments at fair value 2,389,076

1,800,594 Cash 138,092

49,987 Foreign currencies (cost of $60,029 and $34,069 as of June 30, 2022 and December 31,

2021, respectively) 59,678

34,266 Interest and fees receivable 77,235

33,645 Prepaid expenses and other assets 14,180

4,297 Credit support agreements (cost of $58,000 and $13,600 as of June 30, 2022 and

December 31, 2021, respectively) 46,040

15,400 Deferred financing fees 3,982

2,985 Receivable from unsettled transactions 101,195

219,732 Total assets $ 2,829,478

$ 2,160,906 Liabilities:





Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 12,300

$ 2,341 Interest payable 6,731

5,704 Administrative fees payable 860

750 Base management fees payable 7,381

5,422 Incentive management fees payable 

4,067 Derivative liabilities 2,135

1,160 Payable from unsettled transactions 14,594

26,786 Borrowings under credit facilities 814,380

655,189 Notes payable (net of deferred financing fees) 718,222

717,556 Total liabilities 1,576,603

1,418,975 Commitments and contingencies





Net Assets:





Common stock, $0.001 par value per share (150,000,000 shares authorized, 109,785,892

and 65,316,085 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2022 and December 31,

2021, respectively) 110

65 Additional paid-in capital 1,584,076

1,027,687 Total distributable earnings (loss) (331,311)

(285,821) Total net assets 1,252,875

741,931 Total liabilities and net assets $ 2,829,478

$ 2,160,906 Net asset value per share $ 11.41

$ 11.36

Barings BDC, Inc.

Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except share and per share data)



Three Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Six Months

Ended

Six Months

Ended

June 30,

2022

June 30,

2021

June 30,

2022

June 30,

2021 Investment income:













Interest income:













Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments $ 40,010

$ 26,597

$ 71,634

$ 51,694 Affiliate investments 411

109

584

109 Control investments 363

109

636

216 Short-term investments 

4



15 Total interest income 40,784

26,819

72,854

52,034 Dividend income:













Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments 63

33

186

33 Affiliate investments 7,183

362

14,753

433 Total dividend income 7,246

395

14,939

466 Fee and other income:













Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments 4,924

2,412

7,147

4,385 Affiliate investments 26

1

39

1 Control investments 122

155

(918)

315 Total fee and other income 5,072

2,568

6,268

4,701 Payment-in-kind interest income:













Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments 2,070

3,068

4,358

6,106 Affiliate investments 93

303

137

439 Control investments 311



778

 Total payment-in-kind interest income 2,474

3,371

5,273

6,545 Interest income from cash 16



16

1 Total investment income 55,592

33,153

99,350

63,747 Operating expenses:













Interest and other financing fees 13,168

7,994

24,829

15,279 Base management fee 7,381

4,891

13,253

8,821 Incentive management fees 

3,510

4,754

6,232 General and administrative expenses 3,269

2,200

5,727

4,501 Total operating expenses 23,818

18,595

48,563

34,833 Net investment income before taxes 31,774

14,558

50,787

28,914 Income taxes, including excise tax expense 



6

(18) Net investment income after taxes 31,774

14,558

50,781

28,932 Barings BDC, Inc Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Operations  (Continued) (in thousands, except share and per share data)

Three Months Ended

Three Months Ended

Six Months

Ended

Six Months

Ended

June 30,

2022

June 30,

2021

June 30,

2022

June 30,

2021 Realized gains (losses) and unrealized appreciation

(depreciation) on investments, credit support agreements and

foreign currency transactions:













Net realized gains (losses):













Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments (6,701)

553

(6,951)

3,444 Affiliate investments 



101

(77) Control investments (813)



(813)

 Net realized gains (losses) on investments (7,514)

553

(7,663)

3,367 Foreign currency transactions (2,709)

(210)

(4,002)

(1,185) Net realized gains (losses) (10,223)

343

(11,665)

2,182 Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation):













Non-Control / Non-Affiliate investments (65,428)

4,304

(94,016)

9,661 Affiliate investments (13,435)

7,087

(440)

9,532 Control investments 17,050

1,368

31,696

(2,602) Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments (61,813)

12,759

(62,760)

16,591 Credit support agreements (13,361)

2,300

(13,760)

700 Foreign currency transactions 30,520

(650)

35,332

3,392 Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) (44,654)

14,409

(41,188)

20,683 Net realized gains (losses) and unrealized appreciation

(depreciation) on investments, credit support agreements

and foreign currency transactions (54,877)

14,752

(52,853)

22,865 Provision for taxes (1,890)

(2)

(1,890)

(1) Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations $ (24,993)

$ 29,308

$ (3,962)

$ 51,796 Net investment income per sharebasic and diluted $ 0.29

$ 0.22

$ 0.52

$ 0.44 Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations per

sharebasic and diluted $ (0.23)

$ 0.45

$ (0.04)

$ 0.79 Dividends/distributions per share:













Total dividends/distributions per share $ 0.24

$ 0.20

$ 0.47

$ 0.39 Weighted average shares outstandingbasic and diluted 110,759,443

65,316,085

96,785,517

65,316,085



Barings BDC, Inc.

Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)



Six Months Ended

Six Months Ended

June 30, 2022

June 30, 2021 Cash flows from operating activities:





Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $ (3,962)

$ 51,797 Adjustments to reconcile net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations to







net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:





Purchases of portfolio investments (708,703)

(538,012) Net cash acquired from mergers (cash consideration paid) 101,896

 Transaction costs from mergers (6,804)

 Repayments received/sales of portfolio investments 603,169

322,357 Purchases of short-term investments 

(217,559) Sales of short-term investments 

272,542 Loan origination and other fees received 11,492

10,024 Net realized (gain) loss on investments 7,663

(3,367) Net realized loss on foreign currency transactions 4,002

1,185 Net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation on investments 62,760

(16,591) Net unrealized (appreciation) depreciation of CSAs 13,760

(700) Net unrealized appreciation on foreign currency transactions (35,332)

(3,392) Payment-in-kind interest (5,273)

(6,545) Amortization of deferred financing fees 1,498

713 Accretion of loan origination and other fees (5,313)

(3,513) Amortization / accretion of purchased loan premium / discount (1,240)

(3,822) Changes in operating assets and liabilities:





Interest and fees receivables (50,492)

(6,513) Prepaid expenses and other assets 253

254 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (3,077)

142 Interest payable 1,033

2,011 Net cash used in operating activities (12,670)

(138,989) Cash flows from financing activities:





Borrowings under credit facilities 184,657

110,731 Repayments of credit facilities 

(157,861) Proceeds from notes 

150,000 Financing fees paid (1,829)

(191) Purchases of shares in repurchase plan (15,113)

 Cash dividends / distributions paid (41,528)

(25,473) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 126,187

77,206 Net increase (decrease) in cash and foreign currencies 113,517

(61,783) Cash and foreign currencies, beginning of period 84,253

92,487 Cash and foreign currencies, end of period $ 197,770

$ 30,704 Supplemental Information:





Cash paid for interest $ 21,766

$ 12,186 Supplemental non-cash information





Acquisitions:





Fair value of Sierra net assets acquired, net of cash $ (435,811)

$  Transaction Costs 3,756

 Common stock issued in acquisition of Sierra net assets 499,418

 Credit support agreement (44,400)

 Deemed contribution -from Adviser 27,729

 Deemed contributions - CSA 44,400



Barings BDC, Inc.

Unaudited Reconciliation of Debt to Net Debt and Calculation of Net Debt-to-Equity Ratio

(in thousands)





June 30, 2022

March 31, 2022

December 31, 2021 Total debt (principal)

$ 1,539,380

$ 1,482,217

$ 1,380,189 minus: Cash and foreign currencies (excluding restricted cash)

(197,770)

(154,431)

(84,254) plus: Payable from unsettled transactions

14,594

21,195

26,786 minus: Receivable from unsettled transactions

(101,195)

(182,294)

(219,732) Total net debt(1)

$ 1,255,009

$ 1,166,687

$ 1,102,989 Total net assets

$ 1,252,875

$ 1,317,556

$ 741,931 Total net debt-to-equity ratio(1)

1.00 x

0.89 x

1.49 x

(1) See the "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" section of this press release.

SOURCE Barings BDC, Inc.
The Battery Sourcing and Procurement Market will grow at a CAGR of 7.56% by 2026. This report offers key advisory and intelligence to help buyers identify and shortlist the most suitable suppliers for their Battery Sourcing and Procurement Report requirements.

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The report discusses in detail each pricing model and the pros and cons attached to every pricing model prevalent in the market. Also, the report provides insights with respect to the category supply chain and the margins of various suppliers within the supply chain.

The most widely adopted pricing models in the Battery Sourcing and Procurement Market

o Lease-based pricing

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Spend Growth and Demand by Region

The Battery Sourcing and Procurement market will register an incremental spend of about USD 51.36 Billion during the forecast period. However, only a few regions will drive the majority of this growth. Moreover, on the supply side, North America, Europe, and APAC will have the maximum influence owing to the supplier base. The growth is expected to be primarily driven by increasing demand and adoption of the category across those few regions.

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SOURCE SpendEdge
SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SWIVEL Transactions, a financial technology and services company whose industry-leading transaction-enablement platform is used by more than 830 financial institutions, today announced David Dobbins has joined the company as vice president of software engineering. Dobbins has more than 20 years of experience in software development including senior engineering roles at Rackspace, one of the world's largest cloud infrastructure and services providers. While at Rackspace, he was responsible for building and operating the company's Cloud Big Data Platform, assembling development teams and launching new services. He joins SWIVEL at an exciting time as the payments company is in growth mode after launching from SWBC earlier this year.

Dobbins says he is energized by the SWIVEL atmosphere and focus on delivering exceptional transaction services. "It's rare to be part of a company that has the energy of a start-up but the track record, financial resources, and customer base of a well-established firm," he commented. "This is a great team and it's exciting to be working in the payments space at a time when omnichannel banking is evolving rapidly."

SWIVEL has the energy of a startup with the track record, resources, and customer base of a well-established firm Tweet this

According to SWIVEL CEO Jason O'Brien, Dobbins will be managing and growing the software development team as the company adds capabilities and enhances delivery systems for its clients. "David has an impressive track record building and managing large-scale, complex service-delivery systems and rollouts," said O'Brien. "He brings a combination of technical, analytical and leadership skills that will be a tremendous asset as we continue to innovate and provide the highest possible level of service to our clients."

Prior to joining SWIVEL, Dobbins was senior director of engineering for Mailgun Technologies, formerly a Rackspace company. He is a graduate of Texas A&M, fosters for the Canyon Lake Animal Shelter Society, and is a city commissioner for the City of Spring Branch where he lives with his wife and a lot of dogs.

About SWIVEL Transactions, LLC

SWIVEL Transactions, LLC, is a financial technology and services company providing specialized, integrated transaction enablement solutions that remove friction for account holders, borrowers, and departments across financial institutions, as well as collections agencies and offices, while also mitigating risks associated with payments processing in the digital environment and moving funds in digital domains. More than 830 financial institutions use SWIVEL's payment processing solutions across the United States. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of SWBC, headquartered in San Antonio, Texas. For more information about SWIVEL and its innovative solutions, visit www.getswivel.io

Contact:

Christina Pandapas

[email protected]

Stackpole (for SWIVEL)

339-927-7788

SOURCE SWIVEL Transactions, LLC.
MINNETONKA, Minn., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Table Trac, Inc. (OTCQX: TBTC) announces it has signed an agreement to install the CasinoTrac management system at both the Bighorn Casino and the Longhorn Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Longhorn Hotel and Casino is a vintage Vegas destination while the Bighorn Casino has been the locals' favorite for the past 30 years. Recently the Bighorn casino was the recipient of "Best of North Las Vegas" in the Review Journal readers' poll for "Best Casino and Restaurant

Chad Hoehne, President of Table Trac Inc, stated, "We are honored that both the Longhorn and Bighorn Casinos have selected the CasinoTrac management system for both the Bighorn and Longhorn casinos. We are confident that our suite of products will help these sites establish their new players club and grow their business."

"We've looked for quite some time for the right fit for our local market. We feel that Table Trac's list of products and the CasinoTrac management system are state of the art and are excited to be with this team," said owners, Randy Miller, Richard Gonzales and Rich Iannone, all former law enforcement and gaming regulators and have been partners for over 40 years and have developed gaming properties in Nevada, Louisiana and Missouri.

About Table Trac, Inc.

Founded in 1995, Table Trac, Inc. designs, develops and sells casino management systems. CasinoTrac is currently operating in casinos across 13 countries including the United States, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Australia. More information is available at http://www.tabletrac.com/.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including those set forth in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

For more information:

Robert Siqveland

Table Trac, Inc.

952-548-8877

SOURCE Table Trac, Inc.
Parsons is recognized for his expertise and experience

RAYNHAM, Mass., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bluestone Bank is proud to celebrate Mortgage professional Don Parsons for achieving as the #1 loan originator in Plymouth County for the second straight year. Parsons surpassed several thousand loan originators from mortgage companies, banks and credit unions in 2021 in closed loan volume according to public registry information compiled by The Warren Group. Parsons is a resident of Plymouth County and oversees the Loan Production Office that opened at 1020 Plain Street in Marshfield, MA in 2018. Parsons has over 20 years of experience in the Mortgage Industry and possesses the unique ability to build long-lasting relationships with his customers. He takes pride in identifying all of the options for each situation and thoroughly explaining the benefits and challenges patiently to each of his clients. From First Time Homebuyer Programs to Jumbo Mortgages, and Construction Loans to Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs), Don goes above and beyond to ensure clients are matched with the home financing solution that fits their needs.

Don Parsons

"Don is an exceptional Mortgage Consultant and an incredible, well-rounded person. His ability to connect with customers and go the extra mile is the key to his success," said Bluestone Bank President, Meg McIsaac. "We are so honored to have Don as a member of our team, and we congratulate him on his accomplishment of being the #1 loan originator in Plymouth County for two consecutive years.''

Parson's expertise in construction lending, and relationships built on trust with builders, realtors and attorneys throughout the south shore have been key factors to his achievement of the top rank. Customers, both new and existing, consistently praise Parsons and his team for their experience with Bluestone Bank. Parsons said, "I know at times it can be a difficult process applying for a mortgage, especially in today's market, so being able to help people through it no matter the situation is something I really take pride in. Bluestone Bank brings in amazing people that I am fortunate to form relationships with and be there for when it comes to mortgages and loans."

About Bluestone Bank:

Bluestone Bank, with $1.3 billion in assets, is a full-service bank offering individual and business banking services, and financial planning services through its Bluestone Wealth and Trust division. The bank has 12 banking offices and 2 loan production offices across southeastern Massachusetts with branches in Bridgewater, East Bridgewater, Lakeville, Mansfield, Norton, Pembroke, Plainville, Raynham, Taunton, and West Bridgewater. Visit bluestone.bank for more information. Bluestone Bank is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and a member of the Depositors Insurance Fund (DIF). Bluestone Bank is an Equal Housing Lender. Bank NMLS ID #403265.

Media Contact

Bonnie Taylor

[email protected]

702-300-5690

SOURCE Bluestone Bank
Canton-based National Life Insurance Provider Honored for Local Community Contributions for Fourth Year in a Row

CANTON, Mass., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Boston Business Journal has named Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company an honoree in its annual 2022 Corporate Citizenship Awards, a recognition of the region's top corporate charitable contributors.

The Business Journal annually publishes this list to showcase companies that promote and prioritize giving back to their communities  a feat that is even more important during times of turmoil and crisis, such as those we all collectively experienced throughout 2021.

For the 4th year in a row, Boston Mutual Life is named to the Boston Business Journal Top Charitable Companies List. Tweet this

"The past couple of years has presented companies and communities with many challenges, and the needs have continued to grow. It is with honor that we present our list of the Top Charitable Contributors in Massachusetts  companies who gave $100,000 or more to Mass.-based in charities in 2021. Collectively, they gave $322 million in cash contributions  a true example of the business community coming together to help those in need. We are proud to celebrate these organizations who give both money and time to make Boston a stronger and better place for all," said Boston Business Journal Market President and Publisher Carolyn Jones.1

This year 95 companies have qualified for the distinction by reporting at least $100,000 in cash contributions to Massachusetts-based charities last year as noted above. The honorees this year include companies from such industry sectors as financial and professional services, health care, technology, retail, and professional sports.

Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company, along with the other nominees, will be honored at the BBJ's 17th Annual Corporate Citizenship Awards on Thursday, September 8th at the Revere Hotel Boston Common (200 Stuart St., Boston) from 5:30 p.m.  8:30 p.m. The evening will be filled with networking, making connections, and recognizing all the Charitable Contributors, the Alnoba Lewis Family Foundation CEO Social Leadership Awardee and 2022 Corporate Citizenship Community Collaboration Awardees (previously our Partners of the Year).2

"We are honored to be recognized by the Boston Business Journal for the fourth year in a row on its Top Charitable Companies list," said Paul A. Quaranto, Jr., Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President at Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company. "We are very proud of the hard work and dedication our employees have put into serving our community through our Making An Impact program. As a mutual life insurance company, giving back and being there for the communities we serve has always been a crucial part of who we are  and will continue to be a key part of our future."

For more information on the event and to register to attend, click here.

The Boston Business Journal is the region's premier business media organization, one of 44 markets owned by American City Business Journals. For marketing and sponsorship opportunities, contact the Business Journal today.

About Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company

Founded as a progressive life insurance company in 1891, Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company is a national carrier that provides insurance solutions designed for working Americans and their families, as well as enrollment and billing options at the workplace. With offices based in Canton, Massachusetts, and Omaha, Nebraska, as a mutual company, Boston Mutual Life is dedicated to acting in the best interests of its policyholders, producers, employees, and its communities. For more information, please visit www.bostonmutual.com or contact your Boston Mutual Life representative. Follow the company on Facebook (/BostonMutualLifeIns) or LinkedIn (/company/boston-mutual-life-insurance).

Media Contact:

Meredith D'Agostino

Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company

[email protected]

(800) 669-2668 ext. 276

1 Quote courtesy of Boston Business Journal, 2022.

2 "Boston Business Journal announces the state's most charitable companies," Boston Business Journal. July 20, 2022.

SOURCE Boston Mutual Life Insurance Company
Bristow places firm order for five ALIA-250 aircraft with an option for an additional 50 aircraft

Bristow will leverage its 70+ years of aviation expertise and bring a pragmatic approach to developing Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) operations for moving passengers and time-sensitive cargo using regional transportation hubs

HOUSTON and SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bristow Group Inc. (NYSE: VTOL), the world's leading global provider of innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions, has placed a firm order for five electrically powered vertical take-off and landing ALIA-250 ("ALIA") aircraft manufactured by electric aviation company BETA Technologies, Inc. ("BETA"). Bristow will also have the option to purchase an additional 50 ALIA aircraft.

The ALIA will have a maximum range of 250 nautical miles and is designed to carry 1,400 lbs of payload or can carry six people including a pilot. With a 50-foot wingspan and a carbon-fiber fuselage, the aircraft uses a single distributed direct-electric propulsion system and has four horizontally mounted rotors that provide vertical lift and a single propeller in the rear to propel the aircraft forward.

"This order firmly positions Bristow as an early adopter and leader in pragmatically developing AAM operations and ushering in a new era in vertical lift solutions," said Bristow Executive Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer Dave Stepanek. "By leveraging our 70+ years of expertise as a leader in vertical lift, we plan to use the BETA ALIA to safely and reliably move passengers and time-sensitive cargo as part of the development of new regional mobility networks in the U.S. and other strategic locations."

"We designed ALIA with reliability, efficiency, and the highest-value cargo in mind, all of which are central to the types of critical missions Bristow carries out on a global stage," said Kyle Clark, Founder and CEO of BETA. "Over the past few months, we've made strides with our flight test program, proving the aircraft is capable of performing in conditions it will see in service. We are gratified by Bristow's confidence in our continued progress, and we look forward to partnering to provide a safe and sustainable system to transform regional transportation."

The battery will be charged in under an hour using BETA's own charging infrastructure, which can be deployed as a standalone fixture to enable airport operations or integrated into a charging pad for off-airport applications.

Forward-Looking Statements Disclosure

This press release contains "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements represent Bristow Group Inc.'s (the "Company") current expectations or forecasts of future events. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe," "project," or "continue," or other similar words. These statements are made under the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, reflect management's current views with respect to future events and therefore are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, both known and unknown. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, such forward-looking statements include statements regarding the capabilities, development, certification, marketing, and future operations of BETA Technologies, Inc. ("BETA") electric aircraft, the Company's purchase of aircraft from BETA, and the anticipated benefits of the collaboration between the Company and BETA. The Company's actual results may vary materially from those anticipated in forward-looking statements. The Company cautions investors not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of the document in which they are made. The Company disclaims any obligation or undertaking to provide any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement to reflect any change in the Company's expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which the forward-looking statement is based that occur after the date hereof. You should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements because the matters they describe are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other unpredictable factors, many of which are beyond our control. Our forward-looking statements are based on the information currently available to us and speak only as of the date hereof. New risks and uncertainties arise from time to time, and it is impossible for us to predict these matters or how they may affect us. We have included important factors in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2022 (the "Annual Report") which we believe over time, could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ from the anticipated results, performance or achievements that are expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. You should consider all risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Annual Report and in our filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), all of which are accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

About Bristow Group

Bristow Group Inc. is the leading global provider of innovative and sustainable vertical flight solutions. Bristow primarily provides aviation services to a broad base of major integrated, national and independent offshore energy companies. Bristow provides commercial search and rescue (SAR) services in several countries and public sector SAR services in the United Kingdom (U.K.) on behalf of the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). Additionally, the Company offers ad hoc helicopter and fixed wing transportation services.

Bristow currently has customers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, the Dutch Caribbean, Falkland Islands, Guyana, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Spain, Suriname, Trinidad, the U.K. and the U.S. To learn more, visit our website at www.bristowgroup.com.

About BETA

BETA Technologies is creating an electric transportation system that's quiet, safe, reliable and sustainable. A relentlessly focused team is building an extensive charging infrastructure and ALIA, the world's most technologically advanced electric vertical aircraft (EVA).

BETA's platform and products are strikingly simple. Prioritization of safety and a pragmatic approach to certification drive elegant redundancy, appropriate diversity of implementation and simplicity of control. ALIA's fixed-pitch propellers and centrally located batteries make it an inherently stable aircraft that is safe to fly and easy to maneuver.

BETA has committed orders or contracts with leading operators across military, medical, cargo and passenger applications including UPS, United Therapeutics, Blade and both the U.S. Air Force and U.S Army.

SOURCE Bristow Group
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The California Community Foundation (CCF) announced today its second transformative gift from author, advocate and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott in the form of two single-family residences located in Beverly Hills jointly valued at approximately $55 million dollars. This discretionary gift will allocate 90% of sale proceeds to the Foundation's affordable housing grantmaking. The remaining funds will be allocated by CCF to support its immigrant integration program to advance opportunities for the millions of immigrants from throughout the world who call Los Angeles County home.

The cost of housing stands out as one of the most critical issues affecting the lives of millions of Los Angeles residents. A priority for Ms. Scott, the primary focus of the $55 million will be to permanently endow grantmaking efforts to benefit Angelenos in need of affordable housing. Since 2000, CCF has granted over $30 million to ensure Angelenos have safe and stable homes, together with the economic opportunities they need to thrive. CCF has also been an advocacy leader for increased affordable housing production, helping lead the passage of Proposition HHH, an initiative to add 10,000 new units in the City of Los Angeles by 2026. Los Angeles is poised to exceed its target by funding 10,510 units in 178 projects. Ms. Scott's gift will permanently support the expansion of these grantmaking efforts.

"We applaud and are grateful to MacKenzie Scott's extraordinary philanthropic investment in Los Angeles," said CCF President & CEO Antonia Hernandez. "Her singular commitment -- here and across the country  to transformative philanthropy has already secured the long-term future of dozens of non-profits. With the California Community Foundation, her generosity will support organizations struggling to solve some of the most intractable issues facing our community. We are grateful for her partnership."

Today's gift follows an earlier, $20 million gift made to CCF in 2021 to establish the LA Arts Endowment Fund which will support diverse, small to mid-sized arts organizations that play a vital role in Los Angeles' creative economy.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Paula Valle Castanon at pvalle [@] calfund [.] org or 213.452.6233

The California Community Foundation (CCF) has served as a public, charitable organization for Los Angeles County since 1915. Its mission is to lead positive systemic change that strengthens Los Angeles communities. CCF stewards $2.5 billion in assets and manages 1,800 charitable foundations, funds and legacies. For more information, please visit calfund.org.

SOURCE California Community Foundation
WASHINGTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Students from California and Indiana, along with staff members at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Southern California, will have the opportunity this week to hear from astronauts aboard the International Space Station. The two space-to-Earth calls will air live today, Tuesday, Aug. 9, and Thursday, Aug. 11, on NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency's website.

NASA astronaut and former California Institute of Technology student Jessica Watkins will answer prerecorded questions from undergraduate and post-doctoral students and faculty from Caltech, as well as JPL staff members, at 12:55 p.m. EDT today, Tuesday, Aug. 9. Caltech and JPL have a keen interest and dedication to encouraging STEM learning. Laurie Leshin, director of JPL and Caltech vice president, will deliver opening and closing remarks.

Media interested in covering the event should contact Deborah Williams-Hedges at: [email protected] or 626-840-1565.

NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren and ESA (European Space Agency) astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti will answer prerecorded questions from students at Van Buren Elementary School in Nashville, Indiana, at 1:05 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11. Van Buren Elementary offers students educational experiences in STEM, the arts, and career-connected learning. The downlink will kick off a school-wide STEM-a-Thon. Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb will deliver opening remarks.

Media interested in covering the event should contact: Sarah Cochran at: 407-625-3562 or [email protected].

Linking students directly to astronauts aboard the space station provides unique, authentic experiences designed to enhance student learning, performance, and interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Astronauts living in space on the orbiting laboratory communicate with NASA's Mission Control Center in Houston 24 hours a day through the Near Space Network Tracking and Data Relay Satellites (TDRS).

For more than 21 years, astronauts have continuously lived and worked aboard the space station, testing technologies, performing science, and developing the skills needed to explore farther from Earth. Through NASA's Artemis program, the agency will send astronauts to the Moon, with eventual human exploration of Mars. Inspiring the next generation of explorers  the Artemis Generation  ensures America will continue to lead in space exploration and discovery.

See videos and lesson plans highlighting research on the International Space Station at:

https://www.nasa.gov/stemonstation

SOURCE NASA
MIAMI, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Cano Health, Inc. ("Cano Health" or the "Company") (NYSE: CANO), a leading value-based primary care provider and population health company, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022.

Second Quarter Financial Results

Total membership of 281,525, including 163,947 Medicare capitated members, an increase of 80% and 47%, respectively year-over-year

Total revenue of $689.4 million , an increase of 101% year-over-year

, an increase of 101% year-over-year Net loss of ($14.6) million , benefiting from a $30.2 million fair value adjustment of warrant liabilities

, benefiting from a fair value adjustment of warrant liabilities Adjusted EBITDA1 of $29.4 million , compared to ($15.2) million in the second quarter of 2021; results in the quarter were impacted by $6 million of unfavorable prior year development (PYD) related to Medicare Direct Contracting Entity (DCE) program described below

Accelerated membership growth in the second quarter resulted in a larger proportion of new, higher acuity Medicare Advantage and Medicaid members, contributing to a medical cost ratio2, or MCR, of 82.6%. The acuity of these new members is higher than Cano Health's historical experience, due to more costly hospital admissions and outpatient procedures, and higher cost branded prescription medications. We expect the MCR of Medicare Advantage and Medicaid members to decrease over the next twelve months, as we diagnose and manage their chronic conditions.

"Cano Health delivered another quarter of strong membership growth, reaching more than 280,000 members," said Dr. Marlow Hernandez, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Cano Health. "We expect new higher acuity members, while pressuring current performance, will provide opportunities for more profitable results going forward as we leverage our population health platform to improve the health of these patients. Furthermore, we will continue to capitalize on our market leading position and the societal tailwinds that underpin the strong demand for the Cano Health model of care."

________________________________ 1 Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. A reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure to its most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is provided in the Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA table included in this press release. An explanation of this measure and how it is calculated is also included under the heading "Non-GAAP Financial Measures." 2 Medical Cost Ratio (MCR) is calculated as third-party medical expense divided by capitated revenue

New Organizational Leadership

On August 5th, Cano Health announced two new senior positions on its executive leadership team to build on the Company's success and help drive critical opportunities to strengthen the professional infrastructure across the organization. Bob Camerlinck has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, overseeing the Company's daily business operations and working closely with executive leadership to implement Cano Health's strategy and drive sustained performance. Amy Charley joined the Company as Chief Administrative Officer and is responsible for the management of administrative functions and overseeing strategy development, organizational governance, and change management.

Guidance

The Company is updating its guidance for full year 2022 provided on June 7, 2022. The updated guidance for full year 2022 is as follows:

Membership in the range of 300,000 to 305,000, an increase from the prior guidance range of 290,000 to 295,000

Total revenue in the range of $2.85 billion to $2.90 billion , an increase from the prior guidance range of $2.80 billion to $2.90 billion

to , an increase from the prior guidance range of to Total medical cost ratio (MCR) in the range of 78.0% to 79.0%, up from the prior range of 76.0% to 76.5% The total MCR in the second half of 2022 is expected to be significantly lower than total MCR in the first half of 2022, primarily driven by normal seasonality in medical costs and cost recoveries

Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $200 million , a decrease from the prior range of $230 million to $240 million Revised Adjusted EBITDA guidance includes a net impact of approximately $20 million from higher-than-expected costs from new Medicare Advantage and Medicaid members, $9 million from lower projected DCE contribution, and $6 million of unfavorable PYD from Medicare DCE The change in guidance is reflective of 2022 calendar year pressures from new higher acuity members and DCE uncertainty; these factors are expected to reverse in 2023 due to higher per member revenue correlated to higher acuity, and lower third-party medical expenses resulting from patient management

, a decrease from the prior range of to The Company added six medical centers in the quarter, bringing total medical centers to 143, including 33 centers outside of Florida ; the Company expects to operate 184 to 189 by the end of 2022, unchanged from previous guidance

As of August 5, 2022, the Company had approximately 232 million shares of Class A common stock and 254 million shares of Class B common stock issued and outstanding. Total share count for the purposes of calculating market capitalization was approximately 486 million.

Conference Call Information

Cano Health will host a conference call today at 5:00 PM ET to review the Company's business and financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022.

To access the live call and webcast, please dial (888) 660-6359 for U.S. participants, or +1 (929) 203-0867 for international participants, and reference the Cano Health Second Quarter 2022 Earnings Conference Call and Conference ID 8371699. The conference call will also be webcast live in the "Events & Presentations" section of the Investor page of the Cano Health website.

A replay will be available in the "Events & Presentations" section of the Cano Health website for on-demand listening shortly after the completion of the call and will be available for 30 days.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements relate to future events and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and could materially affect actual results, performance or achievements. Such forward-looking statement include, without limitation, our anticipated results of operations, including our financial guidance for the 2022 fiscal year, our business strategies, our projected costs, prospects and plans, and other aspects of our operations or operating results. These forward-looking statements generally can be identified by phrases such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "foresees," "forecasts," "estimates" or other words or phrases of similar import. It is uncertain whether any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what impact they will have on our results of operations and financial condition. Important risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in forward-looking statements include, among others, changes in market or industry conditions, regulatory environment, competitive conditions, and receptivity to our services; developments and uncertainties related to the DCE program; adverse effects on the Company's business as a result of the restatement of our previously issued financial statements; our ability to realize expected results with respect to patient membership, total revenue and earnings; our ability to enter into new markets and continue our growth; our ability to integrate our acquisitions and achieve desired synergies; our ability to maintain our relationships with health plans and other key payors; the impact of COVID-19 on our business and results of operations; our future capital requirements and sources and uses of cash, including funds to satisfy our liquidity needs; and our ability to recruit and retain qualified team members and independent physicians. For a detailed discussion of the risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, please refer to our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). All information provided in this press release is as of the date hereof, and we undertake no duty to update or revise this information unless required by law.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release contains certain non-GAAP financial measures as defined by the SEC rules. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA have not been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as EBITDA, adjusted to add back the effect of certain expenses, such as stock-based compensation expense, de novo losses (consisting of costs associated with the ramp up of new medical centers and losses incurred for the twelve months after the opening of a new facility), acquisition transaction costs (consisting of transaction costs and corporate development payroll costs), restructuring and other charges, fair value adjustments in contingent consideration, loss on extinguishment of debt, and changes in fair value of warrant liabilities. We believe these non-GAAP financial measures provide an additional tool for investors to use in evaluating ongoing operating results and trends and in comparing our financial measures with other similar companies. We do not consider these non-GAAP measures in isolation or as an alternative to financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP. These non-GAAP financial measures are subject to inherent limitations as they reflect the exercise of judgments by management about which expense, income and other items are excluded or included in determining these non-GAAP financial measures. In addition, other companies may calculate non-GAAP financial measures differently or may use other measures to evaluate their performance, all of which could reduce the usefulness of our non-GAAP financial measures as tools for comparison. A reconciliation of those measures to their most directly comparable GAAP measures is available under the heading "Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measures."

The Company has not reconciled its expectations as to non-GAAP measures in future periods to their most directly comparable GAAP measure because certain costs and expenses are outside of its control or cannot be reasonably predicted. Accordingly, reconciliation is not available without unreasonable effort, although it is important to note that these factors could be material to the Company's results computed in accordance with GAAP.

About Cano Health

Cano Health (NYSE: CANO) is a high-touch, technology-powered healthcare company delivering personalized, value-based primary care to more than 280,000 members. With its headquarters in Miami, Florida, Cano Health is transforming healthcare by delivering primary care that measurably improves the health, wellness, and quality of life of its patients and the communities it serves. Founded in 2009, Cano Health has more than 4,000 employees, and operates primary care medical centers and supports affiliated providers in nine states and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit canohealth.com or investors.canohealth.com .

Investor Relations Contact:

Jeffrey Geyer

Cano Health, Inc.

(786) 206-1930

[email protected]

Media Relations Contact:

Georgi Morales Pipkin

Cano Health, Inc.

(786) 206-3322

[email protected]

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS UNAUDITED Three Months Ended June 30, Six Months Ended June 30, (in thousands, except share and per share data) 2022 2021 2022 2021 Revenue: Capitated revenue $ 655,493 $ 329,484 $ 1,329,844 $ 590,841 Fee-for-service and other revenue 33,880 14,097 63,671 27,342 Total revenue 689,373 343,581 1,393,515 618,183 Operating expenses: Third-party medical costs 541,317 291,816 1,077,097 486,862 Direct patient expense 52,647 35,607 113,323 69,844 Selling, general and administrative expenses 106,179 47,159 202,849 82,168 Depreciation and amortization expense 19,836 7,945 38,872 13,791 Transaction costs and other 6,207 16,114 14,583 25,068 Change in fair value of contingent consideration (5,764) (496) (10,425) (211) Total operating expenses 720,422 398,145 1,436,299 677,522 Income (loss) from operations (31,049) (54,564) (42,784) (59,339) Other income and expense: Interest expense (13,134) (9,714) (26,418) (20,340) Interest income 2 1 3 2 Loss on extinguishment of debt  (13,225) (1,428) (13,225) Change in fair value of warrant liabilities 30,175 39,215 57,337 39,215 Other income (expense) 251 (25) 530 (25) Total other income (expense) 17,294 16,252 30,024 5,627 Net income (loss) before income tax expense (13,755) (38,312) (12,760) (53,712) Income tax expense (benefit) 809 (2,023) 1,889 (1,309) Net income (loss) $ (14,564) $ (36,289) $ (14,649) $ (52,403) Net income (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests (9,231) (40,844) (9,976) (56,958) Net income (loss) attributable to Class A common stockholders $ (5,333) $ 4,555 $ (4,673) $ 4,555 Net income (loss) per share attributable to Class A common stockholders, basic $ (0.03) $ 0.03 $ (0.02) $ 0.03 Net income (loss) per share attributable to Class A common stockholders, diluted $ (0.03) $ (0.06) $ (0.03) $ (0.06) Weighted-average shares used in computation of earnings per share: Basic 210,053,037 167,134,853 200,783,129 166,691,634 Diluted 474,580,471 168,884,315 465,310,563 167,571,198

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS UNAUDITED As of, (in thousands) June 30,

2022 December 31,

2021 Assets Current assets: Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash $ 47,847 $ 163,170 Accounts receivable, net of unpaid service provider costs 200,990 133,433 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 38,466 20,632 Total current assets 287,303 317,235 Property and equipment, net 106,198 85,261 Operating lease right of use assets 168,554 132,173 Goodwill 777,163 769,667 Payor relationships, net 561,733 576,648 Other intangibles, net 234,127 248,973 Other assets 6,327 13,582 Total assets $ 2,141,405 $ 2,143,539 Liabilities and stockholders' equity Current liabilities: Current portion of notes payable $ 6,444 $ 6,493 Current portion of finance lease liabilities 1,561 1,295 Current portion of contingent consideration 198 3,123 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 69,419 80,829 Current portions due to sellers 4,317 17,357 Current portion operating lease liabilities 20,726 15,275 Other current liabilities 39,390 36,664 Total current liabilities 142,055 161,036 Notes payable, net of current portion and debt issuance costs 914,890 915,266 Long term portion of operating lease liabilities 157,408 122,935 Warrants liabilities 22,807 80,144 Long term portion of finance lease liabilities 2,923 2,181 Contingent consideration 27,800 35,300 Other liabilities 32,525 28,109 Total liabilities 1,300,408 1,344,971 Stockholders' Equity Shares of Class A common stock 22 18 Shares of Class B common stock 27 30 Additional paid-in capital 495,642 397,443 Accumulated deficit (83,433) (78,760) Total Stockholders' Equity before non-controlling interests 412,258 318,731 Non-controlling interests 428,739 479,837 Total Stockholders' Equity 840,997 798,568 Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity $ 2,141,405 $ 2,143,539

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS UNAUDITED Six Months Ended June 30, (in thousands) 2022 2021 Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net loss $ (14,649) $ (52,403) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities: Depreciation and amortization expense 38,872 13,791 Change in fair value of contingent consideration (10,425) (211) Change in fair value of warrant liabilities (57,337) (39,215) Loss on extinguishment of debt 1,428 13,225 Amortization of debt issuance costs 1,570 8,541 Non-cash lease expense 3,642  Stock-based compensation 31,600 3,680 Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable, net (67,557) (6,441) Other assets 7,158 (5,925) Prepaid expenses and other current assets (17,834) (16,341) Interest accrued due to seller 100 957 Accounts payable and accrued expenses (9,362) 14,426 Other liabilities 10,621 7,816 Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities (82,173) (58,100) Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Purchase of property and equipment (20,431) (7,730) Acquisitions of subsidiaries including non-compete intangibles, net of cash acquired (4,995) (614,394) Payments to sellers (3,847) (23,963) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities (29,273) (646,087) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Business Combination and PIPE financing  935,362 Payments of long-term debt (3,222) (402,572) Debt issuance costs (88) (11,274) Proceeds from long-term debt  295,000 Proceeds from delayed draw term  175,000 Repayments of delayed draw term  (2,350) Proceeds from insurance financing arrangements 2,529 1,702 Payments of principal on insurance financing arrangements (1,380) (993) Principal payments under finance leases (679) (64) Repayment of equipment loans (261) (154) Employee stock purchase plan withholding tax payments (776)  Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (3,877) 989,657 Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash (115,323) 285,470 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of year 163,170 33,807 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of period $ 47,847 $ 319,277

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA UNAUDITED Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in thousands) 2022 2021 2022 2021 Net loss $ (14,564) $ (36,289) $ (14,649) $ (52,403) Interest income (2) (1) (3) (2) Interest expense 13,134 9,714 26,418 20,340 Income tax expense (benefit) 809 (2,023) 1,889 (1,309) Depreciation and amortization expense 19,836 7,945 38,872 13,791 EBITDA $ 19,213 $ (20,654) $ 52,527 $ (19,583) Stock-based compensation 17,783 3,609 31,600 3,680 De novo (1) 19,469 8,543 35,285 14,383 Transaction costs (2) 7,842 16,976 17,713 26,794 Restructuring and other 1,016 2,811 3,602 3,222 Change in fair value of contingent consideration (5,764) (496) (10,425) (211) Loss on extinguishment of debt  13,225 1,428 13,225 Change in fair value of warrant liabilities (30,175) (39,215) (57,337) (39,215) Adjusted EBITDA $ 29,384 $ (15,201) $ 74,393 $ 2,295

_________________________________ (1) De novo losses include those costs associated with the ramp up of new medical centers and losses incurred after the opening of a new facility. These costs collectively are higher than comparable expenses incurred once such a facility has been opened and is generating revenue, and would not have been incurred unless a new facility was being opened. (2) Acquisition transaction costs included $1.6 million and $0.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and $2.6 million and $1.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021, respectively, of corporate development payroll costs. Corporate development payroll costs include those expenses directly related to the additional staff needed to support our acquisition activity.

Key Metrics Three Months Ended June 30, 2022 2021 % Change Members: Medicare Advantage 123,768 103,812 19.2 % Medicare DCE 40,179 8,054 398.9 % Total Medicare 163,947 111,866 46.6 % Medicaid 70,254 25,178 179.0 % ACA 47,324 18,994 149.2 % Total members 281,525 156,038 80.4 % Member months: Medicare Advantage 364,565 258,327 41.1 % Medicare DCE 122,301 23,924 411.2 % Total Medicare 486,866 282,251 72.5 % Medicaid 206,630 71,461 189.2 % ACA 139,355 57,816 141.0 % Total member months 832,851 411,528 102.4 % Per Member Per Month ("PMPM"): Medicare Advantage $ 1,196 $ 990 20.8 % Medicare DCE $ 1,362 $ 1,221 11.5 % Total Medicare $ 1,238 $ 1,010 22.6 % Medicaid $ 223 $ 612 (63.6) % ACA $ 48 $ 14 242.9 % Total PMPM $ 787 $ 801 (1.7) % Medical centers 143 90

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022 2021 % Change Members: Medicare Advantage 123,768 103,812 19.2 % Medicare DCE 40,179 8,054 398.9 % Total Medicare 163,947 111,866 46.6 % Medicaid 70,254 25,178 179.0 % ACA 47,324 18,994 149.2 % Total members 281,525 156,038 80.4 % Member months: Medicare Advantage 718,980 483,157 48.8 % Medicare DCE 247,390 23,924 934.1 % Total Medicare 966,370 507,081 90.6 % Medicaid 408,827 134,369 204.3 % ACA 261,266 113,853 129.5 % Total member months 1,636,463 755,303 116.7 % Per Member Per Month ("PMPM"): Medicare Advantage $ 1,222 $ 985 24.1 % Medicare DCE $ 1,371 $ 1,221 12.3 % Total Medicare $ 1,260 $ 997 26.4 % Medicaid $ 240 $ 613 (60.8) % ACA $ 53 $ 29 82.8 % Total PMPM $ 813 $ 782 4.0 % Medical centers 143 90

SOURCE Cano Health, Inc.
DENVER, Colo. and TORONTO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Canvass Analytics Inc. ("Canvass AI"), a leader in industrial AI software, today announced the completion of its previously reported Series A financing with an extension of US $7.73 million, led by Yamaha Motors Ventures and a CDN $5.7 million (US $4.43 million) repayable loan from the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). The Series A extension will fuel the company's mission to empower industrial workforces to drive impact across their operations with the power of Industrial AI.

"The completion of our Series A endorses our go-to-market strategy and the acceptance of our solution in market. Today, leading industrials and manufacturers are using our patented Canvass AI platform to solve challenges that have plagued their operations for decades. This, in turn, is providing a positive impact to their productivity, profitability, and sustainability goals," said Humera Malik, CEO of Canvass AI. "This additional financing places us in a solid position to achieve our growth plans and accelerate AI adoption in large and mid-cap industrial companies."

As previously announced, the FedDev loan will enable the company to expand its diverse and inclusive workforce in Ontario as the company accelerates its growth with industrial companies who are rapidly adopting and scaling AI across their operations.

"Our government believes that protecting our environment and fighting climate change is not only the right thing to do for the planet but also for our economy. The Government of Canada is proud to support tech companies like Canvass AI in the important work they are doing to reduce the environmental impact of major industries as we move toward net-zero emissions" said the Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

"Canvass AI's laser focus on enabling industrial companies to achieve their performance goals faster with the power of AI is filling a gap in the market that industrial companies have been searching for. We are excited by Canvass AI's strategy to empower industrial engineers as the change makers of Industry 4.0 so that the industrials can extend their competitive advantage, reduce costs, and advance their sustainability initiatives," commented Anish Patel, COO and Managing Director of Yamaha Motor Ventures.

Canvass AI's customers span the oil and gas, chemical and petrochemical, metals and mining, and energy sectors, all of which contribute significantly to the global economy and will play key roles in combating climate change. The Canvass AI platform provides industrial engineers with easy-to-use AI solutions to apply and scale across their operations that address their operational challenges, without requiring coding or data science expertise. Today, leading companies use Canvass AI to reduce carbon emissions and waste, improve yields, optimize facility operations, improve asset reliability and integrity, and optimize energy consumption.

About Canvass AI

Canvass AI is a leading industrial AI software provider that puts the power of AI in the hands of industrial workforces to solve day-to-day operational problems. Some of the world's largest companies use Canvass AI's patented Industrial AI Platform to reduce carbon emissions and waste, improve yields, and optimize facility operations. Backed by Alphabet and Yamaha Motor Ventures, the Company is recognized by CB Insights as one of the world's top 50 technology companies that is advancing manufacturing. Follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.

About FedDev Ontario

For 13 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario , has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada's most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our pivotal projects, our Southern Ontario Spotlight, and FedDev Ontario's Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Canvass Analytics
NEW BERN, N.C., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CarolinaEast Medical Center has been named one of the top best hospitals in the state by U.S. News & World Report in their annual "Best Hospitals" rankings and ratings. The 2022-2023 list also recognizes CarolinaEast as a High Performing hospital for eight different specialties and conditions. This is the highest award a hospital can earn for U.S. News' Best Hospitals Procedures & Conditions ratings.

CarolinaEast Medical Center has been named one of the top best hospitals in the state by U.S. News & World Report in their annual "Best Hospitals" rankings and ratings. The 2022-2023 list also recognizes CarolinaEast as a High Performing hospital for eight different specialties and conditions.

U.S. News & World Report is the global authority in hospital rankings and consumer advice. Their annual "Best Hospitals" rankings and ratings, now in their 33rd year, are designed to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive quality care for challenging health conditions or elective procedures.

"The hospitals named among the best have extensive medical expertise and a history of delivering good outcomes," said Ben Harder, chief of health analysis and managing editor at U.S. News. "When patients and their medical professionals are considering their options for care, the rankings are designed to help them identify hospitals that are superior in the kind of care they may need."

CarolinaEast earned High Performing ratings for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Hip Fracture, Kidney Failure, Knee Replacement, and Stroke. High Performing ratings recognize care that was significantly better than the national average, as measured by factors such as patient outcomes, complication rates, patient experience, and level of nursing care. The "Best Hospitals" methodology factors in data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, American Hospital Association, professional organizations, and medical specialists.

"We are extremely proud to be recognized for the high quality of life-saving and life-changing procedures that we are able to offer right here in our community," said Michael Smith, President and CEO, CarolinaEast Health System. "Delivering an outstanding patient experience is among the most important things we do. It takes a team of caring professionals that all play a significant role in receiving these awards and I thank each and every member of the CarolinaEast team for being remarkable at what they do."

For the 2022-2023 rankings and ratings, U.S. News evaluated more than 4,500 hospitals across 15 specialties and 20 procedures and conditions. In the 15 specialties, 164 hospitals were ranked in at least one specialty and fewer than half of all hospitals received any High Performing rating. Learn more at https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/rankings.

Contact:

Brandy Popp, Director, Public Relations

CarolinaEast Health System

[email protected]

252-633-8154

SOURCE CarolinaEast Health System
FORT WORTH, Texas, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chalk Mountain Services of Texas, a leader in the oilfield services industry, has been recognized by the Texas Trucking Association as the 2022 TXTA Truck Safety Contest Grand Champion. In addition, Chalk Mountain was presented with the Great West Safety Award for outstanding achievement in highway safety in the Local Over 10-Million Mile category.

Chalk Mountain wins the 2022 Texas Trucking Association Truck Safety Contest Grand Champion Award and the Great West Safety Award for outstanding achievement in highway safety - Local Over 10-Million Mile category. Left to right, David Bowe, President, Chalk Mountain, Dean Cox, Vice President of Safety, Chalk Mountain, David Serach, Director of Safety, Chalk Mountain, Michael Metzger, Assistant Vice President, Great West Casualty Company, and Ernesto Gaytan, Jr, Chairman, Texas Trucking Assoc.

The Truck Safety Contest Award recognizes the fleets of TXTA member companies that develop distinguished professional driving performance in the trucking industry. Winners are judged on their company's lowest overall accident frequency experience rates.

David Bowe, Chalk Mountain President, commented "We are honored to receive the Grand Champion Award from the TXTA. We are deeply appreciative of all our employees who contributed each and every day to our safety record. It underscores our commitment to one of our core values, 'Safety Always.'"

Since January, 2021, Chalk achieved a record milestone of 30+ million miles without a DOT-recordable preventable accident. With the award for Truck Safety Contest Grand Champion and winning first place in the Local Over 10-Million Mile category, Chalk Mountain continues to build on its reputation as a place where safety is the first and last word.

Awards were presented at the Safety and Maintenance Awards Luncheon held July 28th at TXTA's Annual Conference at Horseshoe Bay Resort in Horseshoe Bay, TX.

About Chalk Mountain:

Founded in 2006, Chalk Mountain Services of Texas is a leader in the oilfield services industry, managing transportation and logistics in the Eagle Ford Shale and Delaware Basin. The Fort Worth-based company is dedicated to safety, first and always.

Contact:

David Bowe, President

Chalk Mountain Services of Texas, LLC

Office: (817) 728-5415

[email protected]

www.cmstx.com

SOURCE Chalk Mountain
Operating Expenses improved 31.5%

Cash increase over Q1 of 2022

DENVER, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - (TSX: CWEB) (OTCQX: CWBHF), Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. ("Charlotte's Web" or the "Company"), the market leader in full-spectrum hemp extract wellness products, today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022.

"Net revenues for the second quarter of $18.9 million were $5.3 million lower year-over-year, reflecting lower comparable retail shipments and lower traffic to our e-commerce site, partially offset by modestly higher conversion rates," said Jacques Tortoroli, Chief Executive Officer. "The quarter also included a $0.9 million returns reserve related to a specific customer. Before the impact of the returns reserve, total net revenues for the quarter were comparable to Q1 of this year.''

"While we are disappointed with the second quarter revenue, we achieved significant distribution and customer wins consistent with our growth priorities to expand our coverage in existing channels and enter new verticals. Charlotte's Web products are now available for employer wellness programs through our recent partnership with SBM Ltd.; and in significantly more pharmacies through a new national distributor, giving us increased availability in the industry's largest channel after e-commerce. These new business wins did not contribute to our second quarter performance but will increasingly contribute to growth opportunities moving forward. At the same time, we continued building our international footprint by entering a distribution agreement with a strategic partner for Greater China," added Mr. Tortoroli.

On the International regulatory front, Charlotte's Web "Original Formula" CBD oil has been placed on the Foods Standards Agency list of products allowed to be sold in the U.K . Charlotte's Web is the only substantially vertically integrated US company with a full-spectrum hemp extract to have passed the validation phase and advance to the safety assessment phase in the United Kingdom. Recently, regulatory progress was also made in Canada, where the Scientific Advisory Committee for Health Canada unanimously agreed CBD is "safe and tolerable for short-term use", and recommended hemp CBD products should be considered for mainstream retail availability.

"We're also focused on improving operating cash flow as we progress through the second half of the year. Operating expenses were down over 31.5% year-over-year in the second quarter. In July, we further lowered our staffing levels and administration expenses. In aggregate, our focus on right-sizing our business is bringing operating expenses below $70M on an annualized run rate," added Mr. Tortoroli.

Q2-2022 Financial Review

For the three-month period ended June 30, 2022, net revenue was $18.9 million, a decrease of 21.8% versus $24.2 million in Q2-2021. The decrease was primarily due to lower comparable customer shipments, consumer shift to lower priced formats, a return reserve as well as lower comparable online traffic.

Direct-to-consumer ("DTC") eCommerce net revenue was $13.3 million, a decrease of $2.4 million or 15.3% due to lower year-over-year traffic, partially offset by increased conversion rates which improved 1.9 percentage points to 15.6%. Charlotte's Web maintains the largest e-commerce business in the CBD industry; and e-commerce represents the largest channel in the industry with an approximate 40% market share according to the Brightfield Group

Business-to-business ("B2B") net revenue was $5.6 million after a $0.9 million returns reserves. This was $2.9 million, or 33.9%, lower year-over-year primarily due to lower comparable shipments to some of the Company's largest retail customers. Charlotte's Web holds the number one share position across major retail channels including food/drug/mass retail, natural grocery & vitamin retailers, and e-commerce, based on market share data from leading third-party analysts such as The Nielsen Company (total xAOC), SPINS (SPINS Total US), and Brightfield Group, respectively.

Gross profit was $9.3M, or 49.4% of revenue versus $15.8 million and 65.5% of revenue respectively in Q2-2021. The decrease was primarily related to lower net revenue including a $0.9 million customer return reserve, and $1.9 million of inventory provisions. Excluding the return reserve and inventory provisions, gross profit was 61.0% of revenue.

Total selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses of $17.3 million improved 31.5% year-over-year due to a $7.9 million reduction versus Q2-2021. The improvement reflects lower employee headcount and compensation, and increased operating efficiencies resulting from actions implemented year-to-date.

An operating loss of $7.9 million in the second quarter of 2022 was $1.9 million higher than Q2-2021. The increased loss was primarily attributable to lower net revenues, higher return reserves and increased inventory provisions, which were offset by significantly reduced operating expenses. The net loss for the quarter was $7.9 million, or ($0.05) per share on a basic and diluted basis, compared to a net loss of $5.9 million, or ($0.04) per share on a basic and diluted basis in Q2-2021.

Adjusted EBITDA1 loss for the second quarter of 2022 was $5.4 million as compared to an Adjusted EBITDA loss of $5.1 million in Q2-2021.

Balance Sheet and Cash Flow

Net cash used from operations for the six month period ended June 30, 2022 was $4.3 million as compared to $16.2 million for the same period in 2021. The Company's cash and working capital as at June 30, 2022, were $14.8 million and $64.6 million, respectively, compared to $19.5 million and $75.6 million as at December 31, 2021.

Recent Changes

Mr. Thomas Lardieri, former Senior Vice President of Finance at ViacomCBS, Inc., will be appointed to Charlotte's Web Board of Directors, effective August 10, 2022. Mr. Lardieri will serve as the Audit Committee Chairperson and on the Corporate Governance Committee. He replaces outgoing Director, Tim Saunders, who has resigned from his position on the Board of Directors, effective August 10, 2022, to enter retirement and spend more time with family. The Charlotte's Web family extends its gratitude to Mr. Saunders and welcomes Mr. Lardieri.

Consolidated Financial Statements and Management's Discussion and Analysis

The Company's unaudited condensed consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021 and the unaudited condensed consolidated Statements of Operations, Shareholders' Equity, and Cash Flows and accompanying notes for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022 and 2021 and related management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations ("MD&A") are reported in the Company's 10Q filing on the Securities and Exchange Commission website at www.sec.gov and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at https://investors.charlottesweb.com.

Conference Call

Management will host a conference call to discuss the Company's 2022 second quarter results at 10:00 a.m. ET on August 9, 2022. To participate in the call, please dial 1-416-764-8659 or 1-888-664-6392 approximately 10 minutes before the conference call and provide confirmation number 48399638 or listen to the live webcast online.

A recording of the call will be available through August 16, 2022. To listen to a replay of the earnings call please dial 1-416-764-8677 or 1-888-390-0541 and provide conference replay ID 399638. A webcast of the call will also be accessible through the investor relations section of the Company's website for an extended period of time.

About Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc.

Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc., a Certified B Corporation headquartered in Denver, is the market leader in innovative hemp extract wellness products under a family of brands which includes Charlotte's Web, CBD Medic, CBD Clinic, and Harmony Hemp. Charlotte's Web branded premium quality products start with proprietary hemp genetics that are American farm -grown using organic and regenerative cultivation practices. The Company's hemp extracts have naturally occurring botanical compounds including cannabidiol ("CBD"), CBC, CBG, terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds. The Company's CW Labs R&D division advances hemp science at two centers of excellence in Louisville, Colorado, and the Hauptmann Woodward Research Institute at the University at Buffalo, part of the State University of New York (SUNY) network. Web product categories include full-spectrum hemp CBD oil tinctures (liquid products), CBD gummies (sleep, stress, exercise recovery), CBD capsules, CBD topical creams and lotions, as well as CBD pet products for dogs. Through its vertically integrated business model, Charlotte's Web maintains stringent control over product quality and consistency with 20+ product lot testing for quality assurance. Charlotte's Web products are distributed to more than 15,000 retail, over 8,000 health care practitioners, and online through the Company's website at https://www.charlottesweb.com/.

Charlotte's Web was founded by the seven Stanley Brothers with a mission to unleash the healing powers of botanicals through compassion and science, benefiting the planet and all who live upon it. Charlotte's Web is a socially and environmentally conscious company and is committed to using business as a force for good and a catalyst for innovation. The Company weighs sound business decisions with consideration for how its efforts affect employees, customers, the environment, and diverse communities. The rate the Company pays for agricultural products reflects a fair and sustainable rate driving higher quality yield, encouraging regenerative farming practices, and supporting U.S. farming communities. Management believes that its socially oriented and environmentally responsible actions have a positive impact on its customers, suppliers, employees and stakeholders. Charlotte's Web donates a portion of its pre-tax earnings to charitable organizations.

Shares of Charlotte's Web trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol "CWEB" and are quoted in U.S. Dollars in the United States on the OTCQX under the symbol "CWBHF". As of August 5, 2022, Charlotte's Web had 145,453,442 Common Shares outstanding.

Forward-Looking Information

In the interest of providing the shareholders and potential investors of Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. with information about the Company, certain information provided herein constitutes forward-looking statements or information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "anticipate", "expect", "project", "estimate", "forecast", "plan", "intend", "target", "believe" and similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Although these forward-looking statements are based on assumptions the Company considers to be reasonable based on the information available on the date such statements are made, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and readers are cautioned against placing undue reliance on forward-looking statements. By their nature, these statements involve a variety of assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual results, levels of activity, and achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on certain assumptions and analysis by the management of the Company in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future development and other factors that it believes are appropriate.

Specifically, this press release contains forward-looking statements relating to, but not limited to: rebuilding DTC traffic and conversion; progress continuing in key international markets; our products continuing being allowed to be sold in the UK; the expectation that we will have our first bulk product shipment in the second half of the year; that we continue to steward use of cash while furthering our product rationalization to lower complexity and costs across our operations; anticipated consumer trends and corresponding product innovation; anticipated future financial results; international expansion activities and strategy, including partnerships in Greater China, harvest and planned product sales in Canada, and expansion in UK and EU; sales volume, product, channel and international expansion plans; growth of the Company's market share position; that the reorganization right-sized our operating expenses to our revenue; the impact of certain activities on the Company's business and financial condition; suggested regulatory developments; and the Company's anticipated trajectory, long-term growth expectations and shareholder value creation.

The material factors and assumptions used to develop the forward-looking statements herein include, but are not limited to, the following: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the regulatory climate in which the Company currently operates and may in the future operate; successful sales of the Company's products; the success of sales and marketing activities; there will be no significant delays in the development and commercialization of the Company's products, including in relation to supply chain disruptions; outcomes from R&D activities; ability for the Company to leverage R&D and brand recognition for product sales; the Company's ability to deal with adverse growing conditions (due to pests, disease, fungus, climate or other factors) in a timely and cost-effective manner; there will be no significant reduction in the availability of qualified and cost-effective human resources; new products will continue to be added to the Company's portfolio; demand for the Company's products will grow in the foreseeable future; there will be no significant barriers to the acceptance of the Company's products in the market, including in international markets; the Company will be able to maintain compliance with applicable contractual and regulatory obligations and requirements; there will be adequate liquidity available to the Company to carry out its operations and business plans; the Company will have sufficient capital to pursue its sales volume, product, channel and international expansion; and products do not develop that would render the Company's current and future product offerings undesirable and the Company is otherwise able to minimize the impact of competition and keep pace with changing consumer preferences.

The Company's forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties pertaining to, among other things, the adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to the Company's operations, supply chain, distribution chain, and to the broader market for the Company's products; revenue fluctuations; nature of government regulations (both domestic and foreign); economic conditions; loss of key customers; retention and availability of executive talent; competing products; common share price volatility; loss of proprietary information; product acceptance; internet and system infrastructure functionality; information technology security; available capital to fund operations and business plans; crop risk; international and political considerations; regulatory changes; and including but not limited to those risks and uncertainties discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ending December 31, 2021 available on www.sec.gov and www.sedar.com, and other risk factors contained in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission available on www.sec.gov and filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities available on www.sedar.com. The impact of any one risk, uncertainty, or factor on a particular forward-looking statement is not determinable with certainty as these are interdependent, and the Company's future course of action depends on management's assessment of all information available at the relevant time.

Except as required by applicable law, the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements made, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. All forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, attributable to the Company or persons acting on the Company's behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements.

(1) Non-GAAP Measures

The press release contains non-GAAP measures, including EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA. Please refer to the section in the tables captioned "Non-GAAP Measures" below for additional information and a reconciliation to GAAP for all Non-GAAP metrics.

CHARLOTTE'S WEB HOLDINGS, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

June 30,

December 31,









2022

(unaudited)

2021 ASSETS





Current assets:





Cash and cash equivalents $ 14,817

$ 19,494 Accounts receivable, net 2,455

4,882 Notes receivable - current 495

495 Inventories, net 52,631

52,077 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 4,390

8,095 Income taxes receivable 7,579

10,764 Total current assets 82,367

95,807 Property and equipment, net 32,917

36,085 Operating lease right-of-use assets, net 19,358

20,679 Intangible assets, net 2,337

2,843 Stanley Brothers USA Holdings purchase option 13,100

13,000 Notes receivable - noncurrent 1,037

1,037 Other long-term assets 1,898

2,062 Total assets $ 153,014

$ 171,513 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY





Current liabilities:





Accounts payable $ 5,122

$ 5,049 Accrued and other current liabilities 7,304

9,570 Cultivation liabilities  current 2,957

3,448 Lease obligations  current 2,408

2,103 Total current liabilities 17,791

20,170 Cultivation liabilities  noncurrent 

385 Lease obligations  noncurrent. 19,299

20,500 Other long-term liabilities 12

12 Total liabilities 37,102

41,067 Commitments and contingencies





Shareholders' equity:





Common shares, nil par value; unlimited shares authorized as of June 30,

2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively; 145,278,165 and 144,659,964

shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021 1

1 Proportionate voting shares, nil par value; nil shares authorized as of

June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively; nil shares issued and

outstanding as of June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively 

 Additional paid-in capital 321,021

319,059 Accumulated deficit (205,110)

(188,614) Total shareholders' equity 115,912

130,446 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 153,014

$ 171,513

CHARLOTTE'S WEB HOLDINGS, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)



Three Months Ended June 30,

(unaudited)





Six Months Ended June 30,

(unaudited)





2022

2021

2022

2021















Revenue $ 18,877

$ 24,152

$ 38,234

$ 47,559 Cost of goods sold 9,556

8,325

17,199

18,095 Gross profit 9,321

15,827

21,035

29,464















Selling, general and administrative 17,259

25,178

37,614

48,964 Operating loss (7,938)

(9,351)

(16,579)

(19,500)















Other (expense) income, net 68

105

(17)

210 Change in fair value of financial instruments and other 

3,319

100

623 Loss before provision for income taxes (7,870)

(5,927)

(16,496)

(18,667) Income tax (expense) benefit 

4



(30) Net loss $ (7,870)

$ (5,923)

$ (16,496)

$ (18,697) Net loss per common share, basic and diluted $ (0.05)

$ (0.04)

$ (0.11)

$ (0.13) Weighted-average shares used in

computing net loss per share, basic and

diluted 145,168,510

139,936,443

145,079,859

139,817,622

































CHARLOTTE'S WEB HOLDINGS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(in thousands, except share amounts)

(unaudited)











































Proportionate

Voting Shares

Common Shares

Additional

Paid-in

Capital

Accumulated

Deficit

Total

Shareholders'

Equity

Shares

Shares

Amount





BalanceDecember 31, 2021 

144,659,964

$ 1

$ 319,059

$ (188,614)

$ 130,446 Common shares issued upon vesting of

restricted share units, net of withholding 

77,193



(45)



(45) Harmony Hemp contingent equity compensation 

169,045



165



165 ATM program issuance costs 

239,500



(2)



(2) Share-based compensation 





1,214



1,214 Net loss 







(8,626)

(8,626) Balance March 31, 2022 

145,145,702

$ 1

$ 320,391

$ (197,240)

$ 123,152 Common shares issued upon vesting of

restricted share units, net of withholding 

132,463



(13)



(13) Share-based compensation 





643



643 Net loss 







(7,870)

(7,870) BalanceJune 30, 2022 

145,278,165

$ 1

$ 321,021

$ (205,110)

$ 115,912

























Proportionate

Voting Shares

Common Shares

Additional

Paid-in

Capital

Accumulated

Deficit

Total

Shareholders'

Equity

Shares

Shares

Amount





BalanceDecember 31, 2020 81,177

107,060,237

$ 1

$ 305,133

$ (50,892)

$ 254,242 Exercise of stock options 

8,261



30



30 Conversion to common shares (3,961)

1,584,410







 Common shares issued upon vesting of

restricted share units, net of withholding 

61,548



(112)



(112) Exercise of common stock warrants 

98,788



441



441 Share-based compensation 





832



832 Harmony Hemp contingent equity compensation 

169,046



360



360 Net loss 







(12,774)

(12,774) BalanceMarch 31, 2021 77,216

108,982,290

$ 1

$ 306,684

$ (63,666)

$ 243,019 Conversion to common shares (1,327)

530,900







 Withholding of common stock upon vesting of

restricted share awards 

16,559



(26)



(26) Harmony Hemp contingent equity compensation 





363



363 ATM Offering, net of share issuance costs 

278,200



839



839 Share-based compensation 





994



994 Net loss 







(5,923)

(5,923) BalanceJune 30, 2021 75,889

109,807,949

$ 1

$ 308,854

$ (69,589)

$ 239,266

















































CHARLOTTE'S WEB HOLDINGS, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(in thousands)



Six Months Ended June 30,

(unaudited)

2022

2021







Cash flows from operating activities:





Net loss $ (16,496)

$ (18,697) Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:





Depreciation and amortization 3,940

5,466 Change in fair value of financial instruments (100)

(613) Allowance for credit losses (2)

515 Inventory provision 1,857

178 Share-based compensation 2,022

2,549 Loss on disposal of assets 150

93 Adjustment to accrual for cultivation liability (582)

 Changes in right-of-use assets 1,236

 Changes in operating assets and liabilities:





Accounts receivable, net 2,430

601 Inventories, net (2,411)

(315) Prepaid expenses and other current assets 3,706

589 Operating lease obligations (896)

21 Accounts payable, accrued and other liabilities (2,194)

(1,825) Income taxes receivable 3,185

540 Cultivation liabilities (323)

(5,243) Other operating assets and liabilities, net 194

(26) Net cash used in operating activities (4,284)

(16,167) Cash flows from investing activities:





Purchases of property and equipment and intangible assets (333)

(3,268) Proceeds from sale of assets 

9 Issuance of notes receivable, net of collections 

363 Investment in Stanley Brothers USA Holdings purchase option 

(8,000) Other investing activities 

507 Net cash used in investing activities (333)

(10,389) Cash flows from financing activities:





Proceeds from sale of public offering, net of issuance costs 

978 Proceeds from stock option exercises 

30 Other financing activities (60)

(159) Net cash (used) provided in financing activities (60)

849 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (4,677)

(25,707) Cash and cash equivalents beginning of period 19,494

52,803 Cash and cash equivalents end of period $ 14,817

$ 27,096 Non-cash activities:





Non-cash purchases of property and equipment $ 

$ (2,364)

(1) Non-GAAP Measures

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization ("EBITDA") is not a recognized performance measure under U.S. GAAP. The term EBITDA consists of net loss and excludes interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA also excludes other non-cash items such as changes in fair value of financial instruments (Mark-to-Market), Share-based compensation, and impairment of assets. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered supplemental to, and not a substitute for, our reported financial results prepared in accordance with GAAP. The non-GAAP financials measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed under U.S. GAAP and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The primary purpose of using non-GAAP financial measures is to provide supplemental information that we believe may be useful to investors and to enable investors to evaluate our results in the same way we do. We also present the non-GAAP financial measures because we believe they assist investors in comparing our performance across reporting periods on a consistent basis, as well as comparing our results against the results of other companies, by excluding items that we do not believe are indicative of our core operating performance. Specifically, we use these non-GAAP measures as measures of operating performance; to prepare our annual operating budget; to allocate resources to enhance the financial performance of our business; to evaluate the effectiveness of our business strategies; to provide consistency and comparability with past financial performance; to facilitate a comparison of our results with those of other companies, many of which use similar non-GAAP financial measures to supplement their GAAP results; and in communications with our board of directors concerning our financial performance. Investors should be aware, however, that not all companies define these non-GAAP measures consistently.

(1) EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures with reconciliations provided in the table below.





Three months ended June 30,

Six months ended June 30,

U.S. $ Thousands

2022

2021*

2022

2021*

















Net loss

$ (7,870)

$ (5,923)

$ (16,496)

$ (18,697)

















Depreciation of property and

equipment and amortization of

intangibles

1,862

2,798

3,940

5,466 Financing costs

2

30





30 Interest income













(19) Income tax





(4)





30

















EBITDA Loss

(6,006)

(3,099)

(12,556)

(13,190)



































Stock Comp

643

1,357

2,022

2,549 Mark-to-market financial

instruments

-

(3,319)

(100)

(623)

















Adjusted EBITDA Loss

$ (5,363)

$ (5,061)

$ (10,634)

$ (11,264)









































* Certain prior year amounts in the table above have been conformed to the current year presentation in accordance

with how the Company is defining the EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA calculation as of June 30, 2022.

SOURCE Charlotte''s Web Holdings, Inc.
DENVER, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - (TSX: CWEB) (OTCQX: CWBHF) Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc. ("Charlotte's Web," "CW" or the "Company"), the market leader in full-spectrum hemp-derived CBD products, is expanding in the central United States in partnership with Hanson Faso Sales and Marketing Inc. ("Hanson Faso"), leading brokers in the sales and marketing of specialty, natural, confection and perishable foods. Hanson Faso accesses thousands of retail customer locations across specialty, grocery, natural, mass merchants, drug accounts, food service, alternate channel and gift packers. The partnership aims to significantly increase the number of salespeople representing Charlotte's Web products at retail.

Charlotte's Web CBD distribution in Central United States with Hanson Faso Sales and Marketing (CNW Group/Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc.)

Under the agreement, Hanson Faso will act as the Company's sales and marketing team working with distributors and retail brick & mortar direct sales within the Central United States, including certain national retailers with headquarters in the region. Hanson Faso will market the full line of Charlotte's Web premium product offerings.

Hanson Faso is an integral part of the supply chain process between manufacturers and customers. In addition to handling order processing, Hanson Faso provides first-class business data analytics necessary to support sales, efficient inventory management and forecasting. Brand building and sales are achieved through data-driven marketing programs to maximize visibility.

"Hanson Faso is one of the most respected and agile sales and marketing teams of premier brands in the country," said Jacques Tortoroli, Chief Executive Officer of Charlotte's Web. "Coupling their well-established relationships and proprietary data analytics, we will propel our retail marketing and distribution effectively and efficiently in midwestern and southern states where consumers are looking for wider access to premium CBD products. These regions make up a meaningful portion of the CBD market and growth potential, supporting our overall channel expansion growth strategy."

"We are proud to add the Charlotte's Web product portfolio to our offerings," said Stewart Reich, President of Hanson Faso Sales and Marketing, Inc. "We selected Charlotte's Web full spectrum hemp CBD for our client portfolio due to the premiere brand trust and science-backed product development."

About Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc.

Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc., a Certified B Corporation headquartered in Denver, is the market leader in innovative hemp extract wellness products under a family of brands which includes Charlotte's Web, CBD Medic, CBD Clinic, and Harmony Hemp. Charlotte's Web branded premium quality products start with proprietary hemp genetics that are 100-percent American farm-grown using organic regenerative cultivation practices. The Company's hemp extracts have naturally occurring botanical compounds including cannabidiol ("CBD"), CBC, CBG, terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds. hemp compounds. Charlotte's Web product categories include full-spectrum hemp CBD oil tinctures (liquid products), CBD gummies (sleep, stress, exercise recovery), CBD capsules, CBD topical creams and lotions, as well as CBD pet products for dogs. Charlotte's Web products are distributed to more than 15,000 retail, over 8,000 health care practitioners, and online through the Company's website at www.CharlottesWeb.com. Charlotte's Web's mission is "To unleash the healing powers of botanicals with compassion and science, benefitting the planet and all who live upon it."

Forward-Looking Information

Certain information in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking information"). In some cases, but not necessarily in all cases, forward looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "targets", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "an opportunity exists", "is positioned", "estimates", "intends", "assumes", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "will" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances contain forward-looking information. Specifically, this news release contains forward-looking information relating to, among others: the future of Charlotte's Web and the impacts of management changes.

Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts but instead represent management's current expectations, estimates and projections regarding the future of our business, future plans, strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Forward-looking information is necessarily based on a number of opinions, assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company as of the date of this news release, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The material factors and assumptions used to develop the forward-looking information herein include, but are not limited to, the following: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the regulatory climate in which the Company currently operates and may in the future operate; consumer interest in CBD; successful sales of the Company's products; and the success of sales and marketing activities. Important factors that could cause actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking information include, among others, the factors discussed throughout the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 available on www.SEDAR.com and www.sec.gov , and other risk factors contained in other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission available on www.sec.gov and filings with Canadian securities regulatory authorities available on www.sedar.com. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking information, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

SOURCE Charlotte's Web Holdings, Inc.
Guests are invited to join in celebrating Iceland's iconic food, cocktails, music, film, literature, and more.

CHICAGO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Inspired by Iceland, today announced the continuation of Taste of Iceland 2022 , an annual celebration of Icelandic culture in North America. Kicking off the series of fall festivals, Chicago is hosting Taste of Iceland from Sept 1-3. Throughout the weekend, locals can transport themselves to Iceland with a series of events inspired by, and in celebration of, the best of Icelandic culture through food and beverage, music, literature, films, art and more.

Taste of Iceland Chicago

Over the course of the four-day festival, and in partnership with local businesses in Chicago, and Taste of Iceland's official partners, events will be hosted by Bistronomic , Martyrs , Logan Theatre , Yoga View , Wildwood Studio , The Exchange , and After-Words Bookstore . The schedule of events includes:

All events, aside from the Icelandic Culinary Experience at Bistronomic are free to attend. To obtain tickets to events:

Register for tickets at the event-specific pages within the link HERE (you must be registered to receive early-bird access) Seven days prior to the date of each event, registered guests will receive an email to offer them early bird access to the ticket system to claim ticket(s) for guaranteed entry. The following day tickets will be available to the general public To claim a ticket, you must follow the steps/directions on the site, until you receive the e-ticket and barcode for entry. Note: if you do not receive a barcode, you have not completed the process.

Note: Those who register after capacity has been reached can sign-up for the wait list. 30 minutes prior to each event, waitlisted attendees will be granted access on a first-come, first-serve basis on location.

Additional information found below.

Icelandic Culinary Experience:

Hosted daily starting at 5:00 p.m. from September 1 - 3 at Bistronomic, Icelandic Chef Arnar Pall Sigrunarson, will work in partnership with Bistronomic chef, Martial Noguier, to design a three-course menu of traditional Nordic fare, inspired by some of the most beloved dishes at Blue Lagoons Lava Restaurant . The prix-fixe menu is $80 per person, with an optional curated wine or Icelandic cocktail pairing for an additional $40, per person. On Sunday, September 4, from 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., guests can also enjoy an Icelandic addition to Bistronomic's brunch menu.

Reservations can be made on OpenTable or by calling (312) 944-8400. The tasting menu for dinner service includes:

Cod: Langoustine, avocado, brandade, lovage

Lamb: Rutabaga, mushroom, carrot

Skyr: Blueberries, Arctic thyme, oats

Brunch menu items include:

Smoked Arctic Char: Geothermal Icelandic rye bread, Icelandic wasabi, cucumber

Skyr: Blueberries, Arctic thyme, oats

Reykjavik Calling Concert curated by Iceland Airwaves :

The Reykjavik Calling Concert will celebrate Icelandic music, with performances by Lon , RAKEL , Axel Flovent , and DJ Hermigervill . The trio behind Lon , Valdimar Gumundsson, Asgeir Aalsteinsson and Omar Gujonsson, bring together new Americana with their Icelandic roots for Nordic take on folk music. Axel Flovent , an alternative/indie artist from Iceland whose newest album, 'You Stay by the Sea' is inspired by the search for a place to feel at peace taps into the DIY spirit of his earliest recordings. RAKEL has previously collaborated with both artists with her vocals and violin. Reykjavik Calling is free to attend, and doors open at 7 p.m. Guests can register for tickets HERE . The Reykjavik Calling Concert curated by the Iceland Airwaves festival, which will take place November 3-5 in Reykjavik. For more information on the festival and lineup, visit Iceland Airwaves .

Icelandic Cocktail Class:

A two-hour Icelandic Cocktail Class hosted by Reyka Vodka and Olafsson Gin. DJ Hermigervill will welcome guests, and Olafsson Gin's Brand Representative and Mixologist, Tota as well as Reyka Vodka's Brand Representative, will make four different cocktails using the different Icelandic spirits. Attendees must be at least 21 years old with a valid ID to attend and consume alcohol. The Cocktail Class is free to attend, and guests can register for tickets HERE .

Lamb Movie Screening:

Guests can enjoy the directorial debut from Valdimar Johannsson, in this dark and atmospheric folktale. A childless couple in rural Iceland make an alarming discovery one day in their sheep barn and soon face the consequences of defying the will of nature. Lamb was considered for the 94th Academy Awards as the official submission of Iceland for the Best Foreign Film category. Following the screening, Director, Valdimar Johannsson will host a discussion and Q&A session, moderated by film critic, Keith Phipps. The Lamb Movie Screening is free to attend, and guests can register for tickets HERE .

Elemental Sound Bath:

Icelandic Energy Healer, Josa Goodlife, will take attendees on an elemental journey beyond time and space, with a deeply relaxing and uplifting program with healing sounds from Icelandic nature that will leave guests feeling rejuvenated. Attendees will receive a yoga mat, a facial towel, Silica Mud Mask and Body Oil, from Blue Lagoon Iceland ; a blanket, compliments of Icelandair ; and water from Icelandic Glacial . The Elemental Sound Bath is free to attend, and guests can register for tickets HERE .

The Write Stuff with Iceland's First Lady, Eliza Reid :

Celebrate Iceland's rich storytelling tradition with a talk hosted by First Lady of Iceland and co-founder of the Iceland Writers Retreat, Eliza Reid. Eliza will discuss her critically acclaimed book 'Secrets of the Sprakkar,' and how she explored the cultural roots of Iceland's attitude towards equality and examined how her home country can continue to progress. The Write Stuff with Eliza Reid is free to attend, and guests can register for tickets HERE .

The photo exhibition titled, "Exploring Iceland with Alex Strohl" will display photos captured in Iceland by 66 North Brand Ambassador and adventure photographer, Alex Strohl. For more than a decade, the photographer and entrepreneur, Alex Strohl has pioneered the visual style of the outdoor industry, lauded by the likes of National Geographic, Outside Magazine, Gentleman's Journal, and more. Through this exhibition and chat, Alex will share his experiences and stunning images taken in Iceland that tell the stories of his travels in The East Fjords of Iceland by sailboat & gravel bike. The Fireside Chat is free to attend, and guests can register for tickets HERE.

Presented by Icelandair, the Wheel of Prizes gives participants the chance to win a range of prizes, including Blue Lagoon Skincare , an Icelandic Wool Blanket from Icelandic Lamb, Wool Scarf from ISAVIA, a year's supply of Icelandic Provisions' Skyr, cases of sparkling and still water from Icelandic Glacial , a Reyka Vodka package, a Olafsson Gin package, a Tindur Shearling jacket and Surtsey Knit Cap from 66North , a collection of Icelandic records from the city of Reykjavik, Landsvirkjun's Nordic Wasabi Gift Box, or the grand prize, a trip for two to Iceland from Icelandair, including a stay at the Silica Hotel at the famed Blue Lagoon and a 72-Hour City-card from Visit Reykjavik !

People can sign up for a chance to win 50 minutes before the spins take place at the times listed below:

September 1 : Sign up at 6 p.m. to spin at 6:50 p.m. , prior to the Reykjavik Calling Concert

: Sign up at to spin at , prior to the September 2 : Sign up at 4 p.m. to spin at 4:50 p.m. , prior to the Icelandic Cocktail Class

: Sign up at to spin at , prior to the September 3 : Sign up at 12 p.m. to spin at 12:50 p.m. , prior to the Elemental Sound Bath

: Sign up at to spin at , prior to the September 3 : Sign up at 2 p.m. to spin at 2:50 p.m. , prior to Exploring Iceland with 66North

Taste of Iceland's 2022 events have previously been held in Washington D.C., Boston, MA and Denver, CO. Following Chicago, the tour will continue on with additional stops in Toronto, Canada and Seattle, WA. For more information on Taste of Iceland, Chicago, please visit InpsiredbyIceland.com

For media inquiries or to attend any Taste of Iceland events, please contact [email protected].

About Taste of Iceland

Taste of Iceland is an annual festival that celebrates Iceland's vibrant culture. The festival is organized by Inspired by Iceland , a public-private communications platform owned and operated by Business Iceland that promotes Iceland, Icelandic products and services. It is presented in partnership with its members: Icelandair , Visit Reykjavik , Icelandic Trademark Holding , Reyka Vodka , Olafsson Gin , Blue Lagoon , 66North , Icelandic Provisions , Icelandic Lamb , Icelandic Glacial, Landsvirkjun , Kerecis , and Isavia Keflavik International Airport . To learn more about Business Iceland, please visit www.businessiceland.is .

SOURCE Taste of Iceland
RICHLAND, Wash., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Christensen Inc, a leader in fuels, lubricants, and propane distribution across the Pacific Northwest is proud to be a driving force behind The Giving Pump. Christensen has teamed up with more than 30 Shell station owners in the Puget Sound area to support nonprofit organizations serving children and youth, including the Seattle Children's Hospital, Boys and Girls Clubs, and Prosser High School.

"When I was approached about the opportunity through Christensen and Shell's Giving Pump, I can't describe how excited I was," said Kim Pope, the Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Columbia Basin. "Our club kids will directly benefit from this generosity via increased funding for STEM activities, art projects, and the ability to take our teens on field trips to surrounding colleges. These opportunities help young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. We couldn't accomplish our mission without the support we receive."

"These opportunities help young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential..." Tweet this

The Giving Pump initiative kicked off on August 1 and runs through October 31, 2022. You can find specially marked pumps with purple signs, highlighting the various organizations being supported in our region.

"The wonderful thing about The Giving Pump is that it doesn't cost consumers anything extra to support their community," said Justin Christensen, VP of Fuels at Christensen Inc. He added, "When someone fills up at one of our partnering Shell stations, they're supporting local business owners and local students. It's a win, win!"

ABOUT THE GIVING PUMP

More than 6,500 Shell stations across the U.S. are participating in the three-month Giving Pump initiative. That's nearly doubled from last year when Shell Wholesalers and retailers donated more than $1.5 million and supported more than 400 children's charities through The Giving Pump. View them all here.

ABOUT CHRISTENSEN, INC.

Founded in 1935, Christensen is a family-owned and operated business, headquartered in Richland, Washington. The company employs more than 500 people across the Pacific Northwest and nationwide, serving customers in Retail Fuels, Commercial, Industrial, and Fleet Cards. Built on decades of industry experience and the latest technology, Christensen is revolutionizing the way fuels, lubricants, and propane are ordered, delivered, and managed.

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, & LinkedIn

SOURCE Christensen, Inc.
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (HSS) condemns the rescinding of the proclamation for "Health for Humanity - Yogathon 2022" by the City of Manteca, California.

ROCKAWAY, N.J., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In a report released in July 2022, researchers at Rutgers University concluded that Hinduphobia has a strong and growing online presence and has been increasing in recent yearsi . Ironically, around the same time, the City of Manteca, in a last-minute special meeting, voted to rescind the proclamation awarded to Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh on the occasion of "Health for Humanity - Yogathon 2022".

This Hinduphobic action by the City has caused angst and fear among the Hindu Americans who live in and around the City.

Based on Hindu ideals of "serving humanity is serving divinity," the San Joaquin County unit of HSS-USA has for years served the community through various projects, including

Food donation drive for community

Fighting COVID-19 by the distribution of masks, helping setup vaccination drives

Backpack collection drive for the Department of Child Support services

Wildfire relief, food, and essential supplies collection drive in NorCal 

HSS follows this model of community service by partnering with several local governments, schools, and businesses, as well as nationally with relevant federal authroities such as Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Apart from various community services, the HSS has organized an annual Yogathon - Surya Namaskar Yajna/Sun Salutations, bringing American society together for a healthy lifestyle. Since its inception, participants around the world and in the US from 43 states have actively participated in Yoga centers, community organizations, schools, and colleges. Regardless of individual faiths and beliefs, US participants have collectively performed over four million Surya Namaskars.

Many businesses and community organizations appreciate and promote this annual project. US Representatives have formally recognized it, and other elected officials, including Governors and Mayors, have issued proclamations encouraging citizens to participate. In January this year, over 3,000 students and teachers from numerous schools and 12,600 other enthusiasts participated in the Health for Humanity Yogathon 2022.

Regardless of HSS volunteers' selfless work within the society, the City of Manteca, California, chose to revisit the proclamation given to HSS in January 2022. Neither the Mayor's office nor the City Council formally notified HSS despite keeping the HSS on their public discussion agenda. However, after learning about such a proposed meeting, the HSS unit of San Joaquin County reached out to the Mayor and the councilors twice with all details about HSS and its service activities and requested them to reconsider the planned unfair rescinding of the Yogathan proclamation.

Ignoring the local volunteers' request and without due diligence, the City of Manteca rescinded the proclamation. They took this decision based on misunderstanding and on false allegations, unfounded facts, hearsay, and innuendos by vested interests who have a documented history of speaking against Hindus, Hindu Americans, and India. The local community members are hurt by this decision and the process to take it, ignoring diversity, equity, and inclusion of the local minority Hindu communities despite their local efforts to work with the broader American society.

Such decisions by the City promote hate and put the minority Hindu community in danger. This potentially encourages discrimination and attacks on businesses and places of worship owned by Hindus.

We hope better sense prevails and the City of Manteca will reconsider its position and do the right thing by encouraging the minority Hindu community's role as part of the Civic engagement.

Contact:

HSS Media Contact: Vikas Deshpande

973-500-8477

[email protected]

i https://www.rutgers.edu/news/rutgers-report-finds-increase-anti-hindu-disinformation

SOURCE Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA
Amid summer travel surge, MKE becomes CLEAR's 45th airport nationwide

MILWAUKEE, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CLEAR (NYSE: YOU) today announced it is launching its expedited security screening lanes at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE). MKE is CLEAR's first airport in Wisconsin and 45th across the U.S. The launch is expected to create 34 jobs and generate more than $2.6 million in local economic activity.

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport

"Our partnership with CLEAR will elevate the customer experience for Milwaukee travelers while showcasing the innovation we continue to cultivate at the airport," said Milwaukee International Airport Director Brian Dranzik. "We're confident passengers will love the new technology and take advantage of the opportunity to travel faster through the airport."

Members use CLEAR's network of dedicated lanes to verify their identity with their eyes or fingers, replacing the need to take out their wallet and driver's license. After verification, a CLEAR Ambassador escorts members through the dedicated lane and directly to TSA physical security, reducing the amount of time spent waiting in line at the security checkpoint.

"We are so excited for the opportunity to provide Milwaukee passengers with a more seamless, predictable travel experience," said CLEAR CEO Caryn Seidman-Becker. "MKE has been a wonderful partner, and we're excited to expand into our 45th airport and create more than 30 local jobs."

Today's launch represents continued growth in CLEAR's national footprint, where it boasts more than 12 million members. CLEAR already serves 9 of MKE's top 10 domestic destinations, allowing members traveling through the airport to use CLEAR on both ends of their journey.

"CLEAR's partnership with Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is a strong example of our ongoing efforts to bring jobs and innovation to Milwaukee County," said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. "Their investment in the Airport and in the Milwaukee community at large is just one more reason to choose MKE every time when traveling to or from Wisconsin."

CLEAR Plus  an opt-in membership that provides access to CLEAR's expedited security lanes  costs about $16 a month billed annually, with discounts available for Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and American Express members. Newly enrolling active military, veterans, and government officials are also eligible for discounted memberships, and additional family members can be added to an existing CLEAR Plus account for just $60 per adult per year.

About CLEAR

Founded in 2010, CLEAR's mission is to create frictionless experiences. With more than 12 million members and hundreds of partners across the world, CLEAR's identity platform is transforming the way people live, work, and travel. Whether it's at the airport, stadium, or right on your phone, CLEAR connects you to the things that make you, you - making everyday experiences easier, more secure, and more seamless. Since day one, CLEAR has been committed to privacy done right. Members are always in control of their own information, and we never sell member data. For more information, visit clearme.com .

About MKE

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport offers nonstop flights to 35+ destinations coast-to-coast, and more than 200 international destinations are available with one easy connection. MKE is served by Air Canada, Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, and United. The complete list of nonstop cities can be found at flymke.com. MKE, the winner of a 2021 ASQ Best Airport  North America award for outstanding customer experience, is owned by Milwaukee County and operated by the Department of Transportation, Airport Division, under the policy direction of the Milwaukee County Executive and the County Board of Supervisors. The Airport is entirely funded by user fees; no property tax dollars are used for the Airport's capital improvements or for its day-to-day operation.

SOURCE CLEAR
Productivity leader debuts on this year's list

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ClickUp, the productivity platform that brings work together in one place, has been named to the 2022 Forbes Cloud 100 list, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures .

"We are incredibly honored to be included on this year's Forbes Cloud 100 list. In only five years, we've built ClickUp into a global, industry-leading platform while staying true to our mission of saving people time and making them more productive," said Zeb Evans, Founder and CEO.

"The way people manage their work has undeniably changed. I'm extremely proud of our team for delivering a solution that takes the guesswork out of productivity in today's new work environment. I'm confident that the best is yet to come."

Teams today move fluidly through real-time interactions and asynchronous work delivered by distributed teams. As a result, workers have never felt more disconnected from one another and are endlessly searching for better solutions to avoid inefficiencies rooted in this new mode of working. As an all-in-one productivity platform that brings your teams and their work together in one place, ClickUp was built to solve this very problem.

In the past year, ClickUp has achieved several new milestones:

For the seventh straight year, the Cloud 100 reviews submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies each year. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people & culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help of a judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers.

"The companies of the Cloud 100 list represent the best and brightest private companies in this fast-growing sector," said Alex Konrad, senior editor at Forbes. "Every year, it gets more difficult to make this list  meaning even more elite company for those who do. Congratulations to each of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees."

"The public markets may be in turmoil, but the private valuations of the Cloud 100 continue to rise. All of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees, again, have reached the $1 billion valuation milestone, and the average Cloud 100 valuation has skyrocketed to $7.4 billion," said Mary D'Onofrio, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners. "Despite the market correction in 2022, our confidence in the cloud economy continues to growtoday over 70% of the 2022 Cloud 100 Honorees have reached or exceeded $100 million in annual recurring revenue making them cloud Centaurs. An additional 10% of the list is expected to hit this milestone by the end of the year, furthering our conviction that this years' honorees truly represent the best cloud companies globally."

To learn more about ClickUp, visit clickup.com . The Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 and 20 Rising Stars lists are published online at www.forbes.com/cloud100 . Highlights of the list appear in the August/September 2022 issue of Forbes magazine.

About ClickUp

ClickUp is the world's only all-in-one productivity platform that flexes to the way people want to work. It replaces all individual workplace productivity tools with a single, unified platform that includes project management, document collaboration, whiteboards, spreadsheets, and goals. Founded in 2017 and based in San Diego, ClickUp is on a mission to make the world more productive. As one of the fastest-growing SaaS companies in the world, ClickUp has helped more than 800,000 teams and millions of users lead a more productive life and save at least one day every week. To learn more, visit www.clickup.com .

About Bessemer Venture Partners

Bessemer Venture Partners helps entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to build and forge long-standing companies. With more than 135 IPOs and 200 portfolio companies in the enterprise, consumer, and healthcare spaces, Bessemer supports founders and CEOs from their early days through every stage of growth. Bessemer's global portfolio includes Pinterest, Shopify, Twilio, Yelp, LinkedIn, PagerDuty, DocuSign, Wix, Fiverr, and Toast, and it has $19 billion of regulatory assets under management. Bessemer has teams of investors and partners located in Tel Aviv, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York, London, Boston, Beijing, and Bangalore. Born from innovations in steel more than a century ago, Bessemer's storied history has afforded its partners the opportunity to celebrate and scrutinize its best investment decisions (see Memos ) and also learn from its mistakes (see Anti-Portfolio ).

About Forbes

Forbes champions success by celebrating those who have made it and those who aspire to make it. Forbes convenes and curates the most influential leaders and entrepreneurs who are driving change, transforming business, and making a significant impact on the world. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 150 million people worldwide through its trusted journalism, signature LIVE and Forbes Virtual events, custom marketing programs and 47 licensed local editions in 80 countries. Forbes Media's brand extensions include real estate, education and financial services license agreements.

About Salesforce Ventures

Salesforce Ventures helps enterprising founders build companies that reinvent the way the world works. Since 2009, we've invested in and partnered with more than 400 of the world's most tenacious enterprise software companies from seed to IPO, including Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, Guild Education, Hopin, monday.com , nCino, Snowflake, Snyk, Stripe, Tanium, and Zoom. Salesforce Ventures leverages our decades of expertise in the cloud and our long-term relationships with key decision-makers at thousands of businesses around the world to give our portfolio companies an unfair advantage, help them build credibility, and accelerate growth. Salesforce Ventures has invested in more than 25 countries with offices all over the world including in San Francisco, Irvine, New York, London, Tokyo, and Sydney. Follow @SalesforceVC and learn more at http://www.salesforceventures.com .

SOURCE ClickUp
Solution Joins U.S. State Department-supported Program to Monitor War Crimes in Ukraine

HERNDON, Va., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Seerist Inc., the leading augmented analytics solution for threat and security professionals, announced Seerist Federal (fka Geospark Analytics) has a new multi-year contract with the Conflict Observatory, a program managed by Esri, Inc. as the prime contractor and funded by the U.S. Department of State, to ensure future accountability for Russia-perpetrated war crimes and other atrocities in Ukraine.

The Conflict Observatory is a central hub that captures, analyzes, and makes widely available evidence for use in ongoing and future accountability mechanisms. The program is a collaborative endeavor with Esri, a leading geographic information systems company, Yale University's Humanitarian Research Lab, the Smithsonian Cultural Rescue Initiative, and PlanetScape Ai.

"Our mission is to deliver information and knowledge to experts so they can make informed decisions during and after crises that impact people, operations, and investments. Knowing that the solution and the information within can aid Ukraine and its people and support the US Government's efforts is gratifying," said John Goolgasian, president of Seerist Federal. "We know our AI-driven Seerist solution, complemented with GIS capabilities as powered by our partner and the global leader in location intelligence, Esri, will be invaluable in the Conflict Observatory's efforts to gather information and mounting evidence of the atrocities, human rights abuses, and harm to civilian infrastructure occurring in Ukraine."

ABOUT SEERIST

Seerist, Inc. enables global corporations, governments, and organizations to navigate a volatile and uncertain world by preparing them for potential events that could be highly disruptive to their operations. Seerist is the first augmented analytics solution for risk and threat analysis, delivers greater levels of accuracy and relevance than any alternative technology or service. It combines cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technology parsing millions of data points with human analysis drawing on decades of insight enabling users to better predict what will happen allowing them to make rapid, strategic and reliable decisions when it matters most. To learn more, visit www.seerist.com.

ABOUT SEERIST FEDERAL

Seerist Federal (fka Geospark Analytics), a division of Seerist, Inc., focuses on bringing the Seerist platform and services to US government organizations.

SOURCE Seerist, Inc.
DUBLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Sustainability and Circularity Matters - Contact Center Growth Opportunities under the ESG Umbrella" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This growth opportunity study examines Sustainability Design Goals (SDGs) efforts and actions solution providers in the contact centers industry have taken as part of broader ESG plans. It details existing ESG table stake efforts and highlights a few providers excelling in making an impact on SDGs.

Sustainability has become an important company mandate and competitive differentiator, driven by demand from customers, investors, and employees.

Increasingly, contact center (CC) suppliers are publishing environmental, societal, and governance (ESG) reports detailing internal progress on the United Nations' Sustainability Design Goals (SDGs) and promoting these to customers and supply chain partners.

This is particularly timely, given that the COVID-19 pandemic provided an opening to further sustainability goals by accelerating the movement to the cloud, remote work, and the digital transformation.



As an industry, CC solution providers have 4 common core SDGs:

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

SDG 9: Industry Innovation and Infrastructure

SDG 13: Climate Action

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

In addition, other SDGs have ongoing support, such as working on gender equality across a vendor's customers and supply chains (SDG 5) or making equipment more accessible (such as agent screens) (SDG 8). Others are developed by companies in the CC space but include capabilities beyond the CC, such as having security practices/portfolios (SDG 16).

Examples include:

SDG 5: Gender Equality

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (green buildings)

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

Key Topics Covered:

1 Strategic Imperatives

Why Is It Increasingly Difficult to Grow?

The Strategic Imperative

The Impact of the Top 3 Strategic Imperatives on Sustainability and Circularity in the Contact Center Industry

Growth Opportunities Fuel the Growth Pipeline Engine

2 Sustainability and Circularity Background

Sustainability and Circular Economy is a Key Component of the United Nations' 17 Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs)

The Impact of the Top 4 SDGs on the Contact Center Industry

3 Growth Opportunity Analysis

2022 CX Growth Opportunities

Top Takeaways

Growth Environment for Sustainability and Circularity in Contact Centers

Contact Center Sustainability and Circularity - Action Examples

Sustainability and CSR

Growth Drivers

Growth Restraints

Core SDGs for CC Providers

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being - Software Applications

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being - Physical Environment

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

SDG 13: Climate Action

4 Companies Making an SDG Impact

Vendor Profile - Cisco

Vendor Profile - Genesys

Vendor Profile - Lumen

Vendor Profile - NICE

Vendor Profile - NTT Ltd.

5 Growth Opportunity Universe

Growth Opportunity 1 - WAH is Driving Innovative Technology Solutions

Growth Opportunity 2 - Circular Economy Business Models

Growth Opportunity 3 - New Work Environment and Employee Engagement Tools

6 Appendix

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/uwho8j

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
Mike Stringile Named International Sales Director

DENVER, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CryoMass Technologies Inc. (the "Company" or "CryoMass") (OTCQX: CRYM) welcomes Mike Stringile to lead its worldwide sales team as it prepares to launch its first commercial installation next month in Monterey, California. Mr. Stringile brings unsurpassed cannabis industry extraction knowledge and sales experience to CryoMass.

Mike began his extraction career working in the oil and gas industry in Fort McMurray, Alberta, where he was immersed in the complex world of extracting hydrocarbons from oil sands. After spending more than seven years honing his technical knowledge of hydrocarbon extraction processes, Mike was given the opportunity to apply his extraction expertise to the burgeoning new cannabis industry.

When I understood what these guys were up to, I immediately thought of just one thing this will change everything! Tweet this

In November 2018, Mr. Stringile joined an upstart C02 extraction company based in Kelowna, British Columbia, called Vitalis Extraction Technologies. It didn't take long for Mike's expertise to pay off. Mike integrated his oil and gas industry knowledge into the design of their extractors, which resulted in the development of industry-leading C02 extractors for the cannabis industry. Simultaneously Mike built an ancillary sales department that did much more than sell extractors; it sold much-needed extraction knowledge and process integration expertise to cannabis companies. In the first 18 months, Mike's sales division generated more than $18 million in revenues for Vitalis.

Then in March 2020, during the Covid lockdowns, Mr. Stringile co-founded AGMS Solutions Inc., which continues to provide a comprehensive suite of extraction-oriented consulting services to the cannabis industry. AGMS quickly developed a worldwide network of cannabis cultivators, extractors, and finished goods producers seeking to avail themselves of advanced and customized extraction solutions.

CryoMass Director and CEO Christian Noel stated, "Having someone with both the technical extraction expertise and proven sales experience that Mr. Stringile possesses is extremely rare in today's cannabis industry. I am extremely confident that between Mike and our current Director of U.S. Sales, Steve Cimini, we have the perfect team to rapidly build an international sales and toll-partnering network that generates millions of dollars of revenues."

Mr. Stringile, commenting on his appointment, stated, "I am extremely excited about the opportunity to lead the development and deployment of a robust international sales effort for CryoMass. I've seen just about everything there is to see when it comes to extraction technologies and when I understood what these guys were up to, I immediately thought of just one thing this will change everything. And the beauty of this must-have technology is that it is patent-protected until 2038. I see this as a major game changer for the entire industry  globally."

The common stock of CryoMass Technologies Inc. trades on the OTC QX market under the symbol CRYM. For further information, please contact the Company by email at [email protected] or by telephone at +1 833 256 2382.

This press release is not an offer of securities, or a solicitation for purchase, subscription or sale of securities in the United States of America or in any other jurisdiction in which it would be unlawful to do so.

Forward-looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including risk factors identified in the Company's SEC filings, and which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, changes in the regulatory environment affecting the sale and use of cannabis or hemp products and of other, potential lines of businesses that the Company will consider entering at a given time, demand for the Company's products, internal funding and the financial condition of the Company, product roll-out, competition, our dependence upon our commercial partners, variations in the global commodities markets and other commercial matters involving the Company, its products and the markets in which the Company operates or seeks to enter, as well as general economic conditions. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made only as of the date hereof, and unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Caution Regarding Cannabis Operations in the United States

Investors should note that there are significant legal restrictions and regulations that govern the cannabis industry in the United States. Marijuana, as defined in the U.S. Controlled Substances Act, remains a Schedule I drug under the respective act, making it illegal under federal law in the U.S. to, among other things, cultivate, distribute or possess cannabis. Financial transactions involving proceeds generated by, or intended to promote, cannabis-related business activities in the U.S. may form the basis for prosecution under applicable U.S. federal money laundering legislation. Please carefully review the Company's SEC filings with respect to related risk factor.

SOURCE CryoMass Technologies Inc
Insurance Company Reaped 665% Increase in Profits from 2019 to 2020

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CSAA  the northern California Auto Club affiliate  overcharged its customers by at least $150 million for auto insurance during the pandemic, and they're going to court to get their money back, said Consumer Watchdog today.

A lawsuit filed in Alameda County Superior Court on behalf of CSAA's policyholders says the state's seventh-largest auto insurance company charged inflated premiums during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many of its customers were required to stay at home with their cars in their driveways. The company violated the protections of Proposition 103 and orders issued by the California Insurance Commissioner to reduce its rates. The complaint also alleges that CSAA acted unfairly at a time of great hardship for many Californians.

During the pandemic, which began in March 2020, the number of miles driven by motorists fell dramatically and auto insurance claims submitted to CSAA dropped precipitously. In 2020, CSAA only paid about 48.2 cents in claims for every dollar in premiums it collected from its auto policyholders. According to the complaint, CSAA overcharged its customers by at least $250 million between March 2020 and June 2021; of that amount, CSAA repaid only about $96 million.

As a result, CSAA's profits on its auto insurance business skyrocketed 665% in 2020.

"The California Insurance Commissioner singled out CSAA as one of three companies that most flagrantly violated its orders to refund excessive premiums. Our pre-filing investigation shows that his identification of CSAA was fully justified," said Jay Angoff of Mehri and Skalet, one of three law firms representing CSAA policyholders in the lawsuit.

"So many Californians suffered enormously from COVID and its economic fallout, and big insurance companies like CSAA should not be allowed to profiteer during this historic pandemic," said David Borgen, of Goldstein, Borgen, Dardarian & Ho.

"California law requires insurance companies to maintain fair rates at all times," said Harvey Rosenfield, a Consumer Watchdog lawyer on the case and the author of Proposition 103. "As a result of its pandemic profiteering, CSAA reaped an astounding financial windfallmoney that belongs to its customers."

Read the lawsuit. https://www.consumerwatchdog.org/sites/default/files/2022-08/2022-08-03%20Complaint.pdf

CSAA Failed to Keep Rates Fair During Pandemic

Proposition 103, enacted by California voters in 1988, requires insurance companies to maintain reasonable insurance prices at all times. It specifies that "[n]o [insurance] rate shall be approved or remain in effect which is excessive, inadequate, unfairly discriminatory or otherwise in violation of this chapter."

Ignoring this requirement, CSAA continued to charge auto insurance premiums during the pandemic that had been approved by the Insurance Commissioner in 2019based on projections of accident claims that did not contemplate the unprecedented "stay at home" orders issued by the State of California in March 2020. CSAA issued modest refunds through June of 2020, but nothing after that, despite repeated orders by the Insurance Commissioner requiring insurance companies to reduce their rates or provide additional refunds.

The lawsuit, Early v. CSAA, Case No. 22CV015548, asks the Alameda County Superior Court to order CSAA to fully refund the overcharges. It is brought under Proposition 103, which authorizes consumers to sue insurance companies in court when they violate the measure's protections.

The case is being prosecuted by three nationally recognized law firms: Mehri and Skalet, a Washington, D.C.based law firm that has successfully brought many class action lawsuits, including insurance-related suits; Goldstein, Borgen, Dardarian & Ho, based in Oakland, California, which litigates civil and worker rights; and Consumer Watchdog, a California-based non-profit organization whose mission includes challenging violations of insurance reform Proposition 103.

Consumer Watchdog is a non-profit public interest organization. Visit us on the web at www.ConsumerWatchdog.org.

Read the Complaint here: https://www.consumerwatchdog.org/sites/default/files/2022-08/2022-08-03%20Complaint.pdf

Read more about Proposition 103 here: https://www.consumerwatchdog.org/prop-103-california-insurance-reform.

SOURCE Consumer Watchdog
Deal Bolsters Curaleaf Presence and Cements Strategic Advantage in Europe's Largest Market as Germany Readies for Adult Use

WAKEFIELD, Mass., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) ("Curaleaf" or the "Company"), a leading U.S. provider of consumer products in cannabis, today announced that Curaleaf International Holdings Limited, the company's European holding company, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a 55% stake in Four 20 Pharma GmbH, a fully EU-GMP & GDP licensed German producer and distributor of medical cannabis with its own product line.

The unique partnership creates a strategic pathway for Curaleaf to acquire complete control of Four 20 Pharma within two years of the commencement of adult use in Germany and ensures alignment between Curaleaf and Four 20 Pharma's current management team to rapidly build a best-in-class German business and a strong platform for Germany's eventual adult use market. Germany currently represents the largest medical cannabis market in Europe, with a total addressable market of over 200M in 2022 and expected to grow to nearly 1bn by the end of 2024 via adult-use legalization, which is slated to begin in late 2023 or early 2024.

Four 20 Pharma is among the largest cannabis operators in Germany, with a greater than 10% market share. From its inception, Four 20 Pharma has focused on bringing top quality flower to market.

Boris Jordan, Curaleaf Executive Chairman, stated, "By partnering with Four20 Pharma, Curaleaf's European business will immediately gain additional critical mass and be in a superior position to capitalize on the accelerating trends in the European cannabis market. The opportunity in Europe cannot be understated, and Curaleaf is uniquely differentiated from other U.S. MSOs via our already significant presence as the largest and most licensed cannabis company in Europe. With cultivation facilities in Portugal, manufacturing facilities in Spain and UK, rapidly growing patient numbers across Europe, particularly in the UK, Curaleaf serves the entire legal cannabis ecosystem and is also poised to capitalize on the adult use opportunity as regulation starts to unlock. This strategic transaction further underscores our aspiration to be the major player in the European market and the leading global cannabis company."

Miles Worne, President of Curaleaf International, said, "Four 20 Pharma is a leading German distributor with a branded product that consumers love. They've captured significant market share in Germany by sourcing product from top EU-GMP certified suppliers around the world and building strong connections with German medical consumers by providing the highest quality flower in a namesake branded offering. As such, Four 20 Pharma is uniquely positioned to capitalize on Germany's conversion from a medical to an adult use market and we're thrilled to be partnering with their talented management team."

Torsten Greif, Managing Partner of Four 20 Pharma, stated, "We have been exploring possible partners to stake our claim in the future German and European cannabis markets, and in Curaleaf we know we've found the undisputed leader and the best partner. From the beginning of our conversations, it was clear that they supported our strategic vision and respected our autonomy and entrepreneurial approach. Having full access to the tremendous knowledge and assets of the Curaleaf team will accelerate our future growth projects and help drive our company to the next level."

Thomas Schatton, Managing Partner of Four 20 Pharma, added, "Curaleaf shares our values of customer dedication and commitment to product quality, and we are incredibly excited about our future together. The team at Four 20 are thrilled to be able to leverage Curaleaf's proven R&D expertise to help us continue delivering the best quality products to our medical patients and the promising future adult use market."

About Curaleaf Holdings

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc. (CSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) ("Curaleaf") is a leading international provider of consumer products in cannabis with a mission to improve lives by providing clarity around cannabis and confidence around consumption. As a high-growth cannabis company known for quality, expertise and reliability, the Company and its brands, including Curaleaf and Select, provide industry-leading service, product selection and accessibility across the medical and adult-use markets. In the United States, Curaleaf currently operates in 22 states with 136 dispensaries, 26 cultivation sites, and employs over 5,700 team members. Curaleaf International is the largest vertically integrated cannabis company in Europe with a unique supply and distribution network throughout the European market, bringing together pioneering science and research with cutting-edge cultivation, extraction and production. Curaleaf is listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol CURA and trades on the OTCQX market under the symbol CURLF. For more information, please visit https://ir.curaleaf.com .

About Four20 Pharma

Four 20 Pharma is a leading, fully EU-GMP & GDP licensed European producer and distributor of medical cannabis with industry-leading product quality and best-in-class regulatory expertise. Four 20 Pharma entered the German market with the vision to guarantee continuous patient care, and since the launch in 2020 of its "420NATURAL" brand, the company has created a steady supply chain to deliver the best possible cannabis products to its patients. The company employs 41 team members and is based in Paderborn, Germany.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This media advisory contains forwardlooking statements and forwardlooking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forwardlooking statements or information. Generally, forward-looking statements and information may be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or, "proposed", "is expected", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases, or by the use of words or phrases which state that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, or might occur or be achieved. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forwardlooking statements and information concerning the acquisition of a majority stake in Four 20 Pharma. Such forward-looking statements and information reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the company with respect to the matter described in this new release. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, which are based on current expectations as of the date of this release and subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Additional information about these assumptions and risks and uncertainties is contained under "Risk Factors and Uncertainties" in the Company's latest annual information form filed March 9, 2022, which is available under the Company's SEDAR profile at http://www.sedar.com, and in other filings that the Company has made and may make with applicable securities authorities in the future. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as to the date of this press release and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. We caution investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the content of this news release.

INVESTOR CONTACT

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

[email protected]

MEDIA CONTACTS

Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.

Tracy Brady, SVP Corporate Communications

[email protected]

Four20 Pharma GmbH

Christopher Thiele

[email protected]

SOURCE Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.
For the sixth consecutive year, Dataminr ranks among the world's top private companies powered by cloud computing

NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Dataminr, the leading real-time information discovery platform, today announced that it has been named to the Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 list, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures.

"Dataminr has revolutionized the way global corporations, first responders, NGOs and newsrooms discover high-impact events and emerging risks," said Dataminr Founder and CEO Ted Bailey. "It's a point of great pride that our work has been recognized by the Forbes Cloud 100 for the sixth consecutive year."

Dataminr's inclusion on the list marks another milestone in the company's continued momentum in 2022. Following its successful $475M growth capital financing, Dataminr made two strategic acquisitions in 2021UK-based WatchKeeper, a data geovisualization platform, and Copenhagen-based Krizo, a real-time crisis response platformboth of which are now fully integrated into Dataminr Pulse and available to all customers. In July 2022, Dataminr announced a new strategic advisory partnership with NightDragon, focused on the convergence of cyber and physical security.

For the seventh straight year, the Cloud 100 reviews submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies each year. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people & culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help of a judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers.

"The companies of the Cloud 100 list represent the best and brightest emerging companies in the cloud sector," said Alex Konrad, senior editor at Forbes. "Every year, it gets more difficult to make this listmeaning even more elite company for those who do. Congratulations to each of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees."

"The public markets may be in turmoil, but the private valuations of the Cloud 100 continue to rise. All of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees, again, have reached the $1 billion valuation milestone, and the average Cloud 100 valuation has skyrocketed to $7.4 billion," said Mary D'Onofrio, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners. "Despite the market correction in 2022, our confidence in the cloud economy continues to growtoday over 70% of the 2022 Cloud 100 Honorees have reached or exceeded $100 million in annual recurring revenue making them cloud Centaurs. An additional 10% of the list is expected to hit this milestone by the end of the year, furthering our conviction that this years' honorees truly represent the best cloud companies globally."

"Great companies are born out of all environments, and it's exciting to see the continued momentum in the cloud sector," said Alex Kayyal, managing partner, Salesforce Ventures. "The companies on this list have gone through a rigorous selection process, and join an esteemed alumni list of Cloud 100 companies. As the need for digital transformation continues to drive innovation and efficiencies across industries, we can look to these companies as the absolute best in cloud computing."

The Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 and 20 Rising Stars lists are published online at www.forbes.com/cloud100. Highlights of the list appear in the August/September 2022 issue of Forbes magazine.

About Dataminr

Dataminr delivers the earliest warnings on high impact events and critical information far in advance of other sources. Recognized as one of the world's leading AI businesses, Dataminr enables faster response, more effective risk mitigation and stronger crisis management for public and private sector organizations spanning global corporations, first responders, NGOs, and newsrooms. Recently valued at $4.1B, Dataminr is one of New York's top private technology companies, with 900+ employees across eight global offices.

Since its founding in 2009, Dataminr has created the world's leading real-time information discovery platform, which detects digital patterns of emerging events and critical information from public data signals. Today, Dataminr's leading AI platform performs trillions of daily computations across billions of public data inputs from over 300,000 unique public data sources. The company has been recognized for its groundbreaking AI platform and rapid revenue growth by Forbes AI 50 and Deloitte Fast 500, and has been named to Forbes Cloud 100 for six consecutive years.

Alongside Dataminr's corporate product, Dataminr Pulse, the company provides public sector organizations with its First Alert product for first response, including the United Nations, which relies on First Alert in over 100 countries. Dataminr for News is used by more than 650 newsrooms and by over 30,000 journalists worldwide.

About Bessemer Venture Partners

Bessemer Venture Partners helps entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to build and forge long-standing companies. With more than 135 IPOs and 200 portfolio companies in the enterprise, consumer and healthcare spaces, Bessemer supports founders and CEOs from their early days through every stage of growth. Bessemer's global portfolio includes Pinterest, Shopify, Twilio, Yelp, LinkedIn, PagerDuty, DocuSign, Wix, Fiverr and Toast and has $19 billion of regulatory assets under management. Bessemer has teams of investors and partners located in Tel Aviv, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York, London, Boston, Beijing and Bangalore. Born from innovations in steel more than a century ago, Bessemer's storied history has afforded its partners the opportunity to celebrate and scrutinize its best investment decisions (see Memos) and also learn from its mistakes (see Anti-Portfolio).

About Forbes

Forbes champions success by celebrating those who have made it, and those who aspire to make it. Forbes convenes and curates the most influential leaders and entrepreneurs who are driving change, transforming business and making a significant impact on the world. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 150 million people worldwide through its trusted journalism, signature LIVE and Forbes Virtual events, custom marketing programs and 47 licensed local editions in 80 countries. Forbes Media's brand extensions include real estate, education and financial services license agreements.

About Salesforce Ventures

Salesforce Ventures helps enterprising founders build companies that reinvent the way the world works. Since 2009, we've invested in and partnered with more than 400 of the world's most tenacious enterprise software companies from seed to IPO, including Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, Guild Education, Hopin, monday.com, nCino, Snowflake, Snyk, Stripe, Tanium, and Zoom. Salesforce Ventures leverages our decades of expertise in the cloud and our long-term relationships with key decision-makers at thousands of businesses around the world to give our portfolio companies an unfair advantage, help them build credibility, and accelerate growth. Salesforce Ventures has invested in more than 25 countries with offices all over the world including in San Francisco, Irvine, New York, London, Tokyo, and Sydney. Follow @SalesforceVC and learn more at http://www.salesforceventures.com.

Contact

Nikki Horn

Bessemer Venture Partners, Head of Events

[email protected]

T +1 949 400 3355

salesventures.com

SOURCE Dataminr
TORONTO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Denison Mines Corp. ("Denison" or the "Company") (TSX: DML) (NYSE American: DNN) has made a further proposal (an "Acquisition Proposal") to acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of UEX Corporation ("UEX"). Under the terms of the Acquisition Proposal, UEX shareholders would receive 0.32 shares of Denison in exchange for each share of UEX held, which represents an implied purchase price of $0.51 per UEX share, on a spot basis, as of the market close on August 8, 2022. View PDF version.

Denison's Acquisition Proposal represents a 7% premium to the price implied by the amended arrangement agreement between UEX and Uranium Energy Corp. ("UEC") dated August 5, 2022 (the "Amended UEC Agreement") based on the one-day volume weighted average price on August 8, 2022, and a 9% premium to the 20-day volume weighted average price implied by the Amended UEC Agreement.

David Cates, President & CEO of Denison, commented: "Following the expiration of our previous acquisition proposal, which equated to a premium over the Amended UEC Agreement on a 10- and 20-day volume weighted average price basis, and after internal discussions, including with our legal and financial advisors, Denison decided to make a further premium acquisition proposal to UEX.

The success of this offer is subject to the board of UEX determining that it is superior to the Amended UEC Agreement and is also subject to UEC's five-day right to match. We note that on August 5th, UEC increased its offer in response to Denison's superior acquisition proposal of July 22nd, and that the UEX board of directors concluded that the amended terms offered by UEC constituted a matching offer  despite the fact it implied a lower UEX price from the perspective of premiums over normalized trading periods.

In making this further offer, we recognize that UEC remains in the 'driver's seat' through its right to match, and that our offer may not ultimately prevail.

That said, we believe that the UEX assets are so complementary to our own portfolio and Athabasca Basin specialization that it would be short-sighted not to afford another opportunity for both Denison and UEX shareholders to prosper from this combination."

In order for the UEX board of directors to consider if the Acquisition Proposal constitutes a "Superior Proposal" under the Amended UEC Agreement, UEX announced that it has postponed the special meeting of UEX securityholders, originally scheduled for August 9, 2022, to August 15, 2022.

Denison's Acquisition Proposal is conditional on UEX terminating the Amended UEC Agreement, which will require the UEX board of directors to assess (i) the Acquisition Proposal to be a "Superior Proposal" and (ii) that UEC has failed to match in accordance with the terms of the Amended UEC Agreement.

UEX has been provided with a set of definitive documents to give effect to the Acquisition Proposal on a binding basis, and the parties would be in a position to complete the transaction without undue delay. After UEX determined that Denison's prior offer of July 22, 2022 constituted a "Superior Proposal" (as defined in the Amended UEC Agreement), UEX and Denison negotiated and settled the terms of the necessary agreements. Additionally, the definitive documents have already been approved by the Denison board of directors.

As outlined previously, an acquisition of UEX by Denison has the potential to yield multiple benefits:

Consolidation of 100% ownership of Wheeler River  Wheeler River is host to the high-grade Phoenix and Gryphon uranium deposits and represents the largest undeveloped uranium project in the infrastructure-rich eastern portion of the Athabasca Basin region. The Company is actively advancing the Phoenix deposit, which is proposed as a low-cost ISR mining operation, through the environmental assessment and feasibility study processes. The results from the Pre-Feasibility Study completed for Wheeler River suggest that Phoenix has the potential to be one of the lowest cost uranium mining operations in the world. Denison currently has an effective 95% interest in Wheeler River.





 Wheeler River is host to the high-grade and Gryphon uranium deposits and represents the largest undeveloped uranium project in the infrastructure-rich eastern portion of the Basin region. The Company is actively advancing the deposit, which is proposed as a low-cost ISR mining operation, through the environmental assessment and feasibility study processes. The results from the Pre-Feasibility Study completed for Wheeler River suggest that has the potential to be one of the lowest cost uranium mining operations in the world. Denison currently has an effective 95% interest in Wheeler River. Consolidation of 100% ownership of JCU ( Canada ) Exploration Company, Limited ("JCU")  JCU holds a portfolio of twelve uranium project joint venture interests in Canada , including a 30.099% interest in the Millennium project (Cameco Corporation 69.901%), a 33.8118% interest in the Kiggavik project (Orano Canada Inc. 66.1882%), and a 34.4508% interest in the Christie Lake project (UEX 65.5492%). Denison currently has a 50% ownership interest in JCU.





 JCU holds a portfolio of twelve uranium project joint venture interests in , including a 30.099% interest in the Millennium project (Cameco Corporation 69.901%), a 33.8118% interest in the Kiggavik project (Orano Canada Inc. 66.1882%), and a 34.4508% interest in the Christie Lake project (UEX 65.5492%). Denison currently has a 50% ownership interest in JCU. Project portfolio suited to Denison's abundant in-house expertise  Denison has a Saskatoon -based technical team with abundant in-house expertise in the areas of exploration, project development, engineering, metallurgy, mining, plant operations, permitting and regulatory affairs, that is well suited to extract the maximum value possible, for our shareholders, from uranium exploration or development assets situated in the Athabasca Basin region.

While Denison is prepared to move ahead with the Acquisition Proposal on an expedited basis, UEC retains its right to match under the Amended UEC Agreement and there can be no assurance that a definitive agreement or any other agreement relating to the Acquisition Proposal will be entered into by UEX or that the Acquisition Proposal, and any transactions related thereto or any other similar transaction, will be approved or consummated by the board or shareholders of UEX. The Company does not undertake any obligation to provide any updates with respect to this or any other transaction, except as required under applicable law.

About Denison

Denison is a uranium exploration and development company with interests focused in the Athabasca Basin region of northern Saskatchewan, Canada. The Company has an effective 95% interest in its flagship Wheeler River Uranium Project, which is the largest undeveloped uranium project in the infrastructure rich eastern portion of the Athabasca Basin region of northern Saskatchewan. A Pre-Feasibility Study was completed for Wheeler River in late 2018, considering the potential economic merit of developing Phoenix as an ISR operation and the Gryphon deposit as a conventional underground mining operation.

Denison's interests in Saskatchewan also include a 22.5% ownership interest in the McClean Lake Joint Venture, which includes several uranium deposits and the McClean Lake uranium mill, which is contracted to process the ore from the Cigar Lake mine under a toll milling agreement, plus a 25.17% interest in the Midwest Main and Midwest A deposits and a 67.01% interest in the Tthe Heldeth Tue ('THT', formerly J Zone) and Huskie deposits on the Waterbury Lake property. The Midwest Main, Midwest A, THT and Huskie deposits are located within 20 kilometres of the McClean Lake mill. Denison's exploration portfolio includes further interests in properties covering approximately 300,000 hectares in the Athabasca Basin region.

Through its 50% ownership of JCU, Denison holds additional interests in various uranium project joint ventures in Canada, including the Millennium project (JCU, 30.099%), the Kiggavik project (JCU, 33.8118%) and Christie Lake (JCU, 34.4508%).

Denison is also engaged in post-closure mine care and maintenance services through its Closed Mines group (formerly Denison Environmental Services), which manages Denison's reclaimed mine sites in the Elliot Lake region and provides related services to certain third-party projects.

Follow Denison on [email protected]

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information contained in this news release constitutes 'forward-looking information', within the meaning of the applicable United States and Canadian legislation concerning the business, operations and financial performance and condition of Denison.

Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as 'plans', 'expects', 'budget', 'scheduled', 'estimates', 'forecasts', 'intends', 'anticipates', or 'believes', or the negatives and/or variations of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results 'may', 'could', 'would', 'might' or 'will be taken', 'occur', 'be achieved' or 'has the potential to'.

In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information pertaining to the following: the existence and terms of the Acquisition Proposal, including the conditions and other rights and obligations of the parties and any potential benefits of such a transaction; UEX's announcement of the postponement of its shareholder meeting and the anticipated date thereof; expectations with respect to the terms of the Amended UEC Agreement and the parties' rights and obligations thereunder; and expectations regarding its joint venture ownership interests and the continuity of its agreements with its partners.

Forward looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Denison to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For example, the conditions to the transactions may not be satisfied or the parties may negotiate terms materially different than disclosed herein. Denison believes that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable and no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be accurate and results may differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information. For a discussion in respect of risks and other factors that could influence forward-looking events, please refer to the factors discussed in the Annual Information Form dated March 25, 2022 under the heading "Risk Factors". These factors are not, and should not be construed as being exhaustive.

Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking information and the assumptions made with respect thereto speaks only as of the date of this news release. Denison does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information after the date of this news release to conform such information to actual results or to changes in Denison's expectations except as otherwise required by applicable legislation.

SOURCE Denison Mines Corp.
DENVER, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of a unique STEM learning experience with Aureus Tech Systems, aspiring STEM student Aryan Pakhira, helped develop a first-of-its-kind threat protection program. Aureus' annual, three-month summer STEM internship exposes Denver high school students to the latest technological advances as they help develop and test future Aureus product solutions.

Aureus Tech Systems

Vice President of Legal Tech Shannon Reed, alongside Aureus' In-House Attorney and Litigation Technology Expert, Peter Azzi and Aureus Tech Specialist, Arun Dushakanti led Aryana rising sophomore at Cherry Creek High Schoolas the team conceptualized a solution for using IoT (Internet of things) to track laptop assets for Aureus's hybrid work from home and office schedule. Sandesh Ranadiv also played an integral role in developing the solution.

"Asset tracking helps keep employees accountable whether they're in the office or at home," says Peter Azzi. "Our team used Raspberry PI and a GPS module attached to the laptop that sends signals regarding longitude and latitude of the device in real time. More importantly, asset tracking provides physical security to company property, something that hasn't had a solution in the past."

"There are plenty of technological solutions to protect a device against viruses, firewalls and other internal threats," says Arun Dushakanti. "Asset tracking protects against external threats, Aureus can constantly monitor the location of the device by getting the longitude and latitude of the device, providing real-time updates."

"We wanted to use the internship as an opportunity to work on futuristic problems which would give students exposure to the latest technology and also help Aureus do proof of concepts that can later be productized and used by the company," says vice president of legal tech Shannon Reed. "It is an honor to share my knowledge with our future leaders and provide guidance on all aspects of tech."

Providing guidance throughout the summer to STEM high school and college level students is incredibly important to Aureus' corporate social responsibility efforts. The internship program is targeted towards the accessibility of technology education at a grassroots level in schools.

"It has been a privilege to work and learn alongside such knowledgeable people at Aureus. It has allowed me to look at problems from inception to technical solutions and then programming," says Aryan. "I have taken various programming courses before, but to actually apply my code in a real-world environment gave me a lot of new insights."

Alongside the annual summer internship program, Aureus has created the Aureus Equity Scholarship for students taking STEM education at the University of Central Missouri; the University of Central Missouri is Aureus' CEO and President, Sujata Bhattarai's alma mater.

Aureus uses AI solutions to empower law firms and insurance carriers of all sizes to manage large volumes of data efficiently and effectively. Additional partnership announcements are forthcoming, as are improvements to Aureus' legal tech software, Anvesa.

About Aureus Tech Systems

Aureus Tech Systems is a Microsoft Certified Gold & Co-sell partner and product engineering company that offers enterprise Cloud and AI solutions. Aureus offers Office365 Development, AI & Big Data, Modern Workplace, IoT, CRM, Customer Engagement Management (CEM), and eDiscovery solutions all in one unified Microsoft Azure native cloud platform. For more information, visit www.aureustechsystems.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Madeline Fitzgerald

Interdependence Public Relations

[email protected]com

(949) 777-2405

SOURCE Aureus Tech Systems
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- D.F. King is an industry leader with over 75 years of experience in consulting and proxy solicitation services. Today, D.F. King released The Debriefing 2022, an annual proxy season review and fall engagement guide, which provides expert insights into the key trends of 2022 and helps companies prepare for the 2023 season.

Zally Ahmadi, Senior Vice President, Corporate Governance, ESG & Executive Compensation at D.F. King, created the 2022 guide. The Debriefing goes in-depth on this year's shareholder proposals and investor behavior.

"We are excited and proud to share our 2022 Debriefing," said Ahmadi. "This was a challenging year for both issuers and proponents, and the trends in shareholder proposals certainly reflect that. We're seeing a major rise in the number of shareholder proposals that are ending up on ballots, as well as a general decrease in support levels."

The Debriefing also highlights this year's proliferation of environmental proposal submissions as well as the continued dominance of social proposals within the ESG landscape. Interestingly, governance proposal submissions are trending downward and there has been a notable uptick in 'anti-ESG' shareholder proposals, amongst heightened focus by investors on other topics such as labor issues.

"We're heading into an active proxy season as shareholder proposals and activism continue to rise," said Tom Germinario, Senior Managing Director at D.F. King. "With this guide, we break down the most prominent trends to watch for heading into the 2023 season and assist clients with comprehensive engagement planning tailored to the situation."

To download The Debriefing 2022, visit: https://us.equiniti.com/the-debriefing-2022

About D.F. King

At D.F. King we leverage our unique depth and diversity of experience to deliver high-level advisory services, custom reporting, securityholder outreach programs and educational strategies to each client. D.F. King provides high-level advisory services in contested solicitations and proactive solutions for all corporate governance needs. Services include proxy solicitation; shareholder profile analysis; proxy advisory firm consulting; M&A, information agent services to equity and debt markets; corporate governance and executive compensation consulting; and call center services.

About EQ + AST

EQ + AST are the partners of choice across all stages of the corporate lifecycle. Together, we are a leading provider of ownership data management, analytics and advisory services to public and private companies as well as corporate issuers and mutual funds. EQ + AST offer a comprehensive product set, including transfer agency services, cap table management, equity compensation services, proxy solicitation and advisory services, private company solutions and bankruptcy claims administration services. Affiliates include, D.F. King and Co., Inc., AST Private Company Solutions, Inc., and Donlin, Recano & Company, Inc. Learn more at: www.astfinancial.com and www.equiniti.com/us

CONTACT:

Sara Walsh

EQ + AST

212-493-6945

[email protected]

Brian Hart

Flackable

(866) 225-0920 ext. 101

[email protected]

SOURCE D.F. King
The Essential guide for those considering entrepreneurship in the cannabis business.

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Diedra Harrison-Greenaway has written the definitive book for anyone who is curious about the cannabis industry business or is seriously considering entrepreneurship as a cannabis business owner. There remains a plethora of misconceptions attached to the cannabis industry and Harrison-Greenaway's book will serve as a guideline to understanding the basic essentials.

The cannabis industry represents a society that encompasses folks from all walks of life. Unfortunately, the industry mirrors the systemic racism and discriminatory practices within the business and judicial sectors of society.

There are still thousands of people incarcerated on non-violent cannabis charges and while cannabis is now considered legal in many states, there are still a number of legal issues that can impact one's ability to enter the multi-billion-dollar cannabis industry. Greenaway acknowledges that there are large numbers of people of color across the country who have issues that impact their entry into getting into the industry and that this needs to change. The disparity is so severe that coalitions have started up to assist them in getting their records expunged as well as providing equitable employment opportunities within the industry.

The Blueprint is intended to guide the reader through a series of well-laid out steps in various sectors of cannabis ownership. The Blueprint also addresses navigating through the sometimes complex governmental and industry bureaucracy as well as covering the reasons it has been so difficult for people of color to participate in ownership because of biases. For people of color, the book discusses openly and honestly the promising and the problematic aspects of the cannabis industry. Harrison-Greenaway personally knows people of color who have been incarcerated on non-violent drug charges which is why she emphasizes the importance of staying current on government policies as it relates to incarceration on drug charges. In fact, she states, "According to prison policy, drug offenses still account for the incarceration of almost 400,000 people, and drug convictions remain a defining feature of the federal prison system. Police still make over 1 million drug possession arrests each year, many of which lead to prison sentences."

Harrison-Greenaway's inspiration to write The Blueprint came about when she began to recognize and hear through authenticity so many situations and conversations she has had with various individuals and various groups of people who have struggled with the process of entry into the cannabis business through non-social equity as well as social equity routes.

Although her hands-on learning, accompanied by her formal education in business helped her, she emphatically maintains that the injustice of what she witnessed within the industry was the driving force. Observing people of color being denied opportunities to become a part of the industry became a point of conflict for her. The knowledge she had as it relates to the cannabis industry application process was not clear cut, so she took it upon herself to write a book that would give a clearer understanding and a more simplified guide to help greenlight the process.

After being elected as a Budget Advocate for the city of Los Angeles and serving as a member of the budget committee for the department of cannabis regulations, Diedra was presented with an offer that as she states, "would be crazy to refuse." Without fear of family reprisal, she stepped out on faith, knowing there would be obstacles to overcome, especially for women of color in the cannabis industry.

Although California was one of the first states to decriminalize cannabis, they have failed epically with the release and expungement of records. Sadly, people serve their time and after being released, they experience a different type of incarceration. They can't find employment or housing; they can't even vote.

Although 2020 and 2021 were phenomenal years for the cannabis industry, the industry did not benefit from any pandemic relief, which as the author comments, "we didn't need." Further commenting, "It appeared that more people consumed cannabis products during the pandemic than ever." Harrison-Greenaway is working tirelessly to ensure that this book especially reaches people of color who previously have not had access to clear cut information about access to the cannabis industry.

About the Author:

Diedra Harrison Greenway is a businesswoman, a strategic innovator, and a purposeful change agent. Her diverse background as a former government employee, working in several levels of government gives the reader a clear outline of the importance of the formal legal processes of the industry.

To add to her credentials as an expert in the Cannabis industry, Harrison-Greenaway was elected as a Budget Advocate for the City of Los Angeles where she served as a Budget Committee Member for the City of Los Angeles Department of Cannabis Regulations. Her hands-on experience working with one of the leading cannabis companies in Los Angeles, California, and helped to make it a multi-million-dollar company within four years. She is proficient in areas of executive business s management, strategic marketing, operations, accounting, sales, customer service, METRC (Marijuana Enforcement Tracking and Reporting Compliance), and cannabis real estate. She is the owner of Greenspace Business Solutions located in Los Angeles, California. A graduate of the University of Maryland, Harrison-Greenaway earned an MBA and a Master of Science with Upsilon Phi Delta honors. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Post graduate certification from California State University, Northridge located in Southern California.

The Blueprint can be purchased by going to: https://www.amazon.com/Blueprint-Towards-Cannabis-Business-Ownership-ebook/dp/B0B6WQ4GVK/

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-blueprint-d-harrison-greenaway/1141814293?ean=9781667854519

Contact:

***@aol.com

Photo(s):

https://www.prlog.org/12928069

Press release distributed by PRLog

SOURCE Diedra Harrison-Greenaway
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Keck Graduate Institute (KGI) and Cardea Bio, publicly congratulates the Chief Scientific Officer of Cardea Bio, Dr. Kiana Aran, for being awarded the Distinguished Engineer, Medal of Excellence award from Rutgers University.

The Distinguished Engineer, Medal of Excellence award recognizes Dr. Aran for her research achievements in the field of bio-integrated electronics and her contribution to advancing the biomedical engineering field through her academic research at Keck Graduate Institute and her successful commercialization efforts that has brought her science and innovations to market.

Dr. Kiana Aran reacts to the announcement by stating, "I am deeply honored for receiving this reputable award from Rutgers University, and I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the many people that have helped me become the researcher I am today. Therefore, I want to pay it forward as my way of showing my gratitude. I will do that via our Aran Nebula Foundation www.arannebula.org where we help elevate other Excellent Female Scientists in the making."

Dr. Brett Goldsmith, Chief Technology Officer at Cardea Bio, adds, "It is a pleasure to experience the scientific community acknowledging and supporting Dr. Aran's tremendous achievements. She has been instrumental in developing our BPU (Biosignal Processing Unit) platform and exciting applications using the BPU. What is best about Dr. Aran, though, is her inspiring activity and attitude toward science and engineering. She has an amazing positive impact on everyone at Cardea, KGI, and on scientists around the world!"

The Distinguished Engineer award was established in 1960 and presented annually by the Rutgers Engineering Society to a fellow School of Engineering graduate who has made significant technical contributions in their career. Dr. Aran is only the second woman ever to win this award.

In relation to the award, Rutgers University issued this statement, "Dr. Aran received her Ph.D. in biomedical engineering at Rutgers and continued her postdoctoral studies in bioengineering at UC Berkeley. She is a recipient of the National Institutes of Health postdoctoral training fellowship at the Buck Institute for Age Research and is a consultant for the Gates Foundation. Her efforts have also been recognized within the scientific community by the National Science Foundation's early career award, Clinical OMICs 10 under 40 Award, Athena Pinnacle Award in Life Sciences, and the prestigious Nature Research Awards for Inspiring Women in Science. In addition, Dr. Aran is also the recipient of numerous government grants to develop the next generation of electronic biosensors."

Award event

Honorees are celebrated at a networking dinner event that will be attended by alumni, faculty, and students, as well as an impressive representation of industry members and other distinguished guests.

The Rutgers Engineering Society will give Dr. Kiana Aran the Distinguished Engineer "Medal of Excellence" at this event: Thursday, October 27, 2022, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM - Cocktail Reception, Dinner and Award Presentations, at The Palace at Somerset Park, 333 Davidson Avenue, Somerset, NJ 08837.

About Cardea Bio

Cardea Bio is the world's only mass producer of a biocompatible semiconductor, the BPU (Biosignal Processing Unit). The BPU is the first and only semiconductor capable of translating real-time streams of multiomics signals into digital information. Through the BPU platform, Cardea's long-term vision is to democratize access to the biosignals and insights behind the most advanced technology on our planet: Nature and biology. The Internet of Biology is that way becoming possible.

Cardea's rapidly expanding IP portfolio now has 29 broad patents issued and another 32 patents pending, cementing Cardea's market-leader position in the graphene biosensor industry, where they are bringing the BPU (Biosignal Processing Unit) Platform to market.

Cardea is headquartered in San Diego and has additional activity in Los Angeles. Cardea is a 100% American developed and built biocompatible semiconductor technology for applications across a variety of sectors including human health, agriculture, molecular diagnostics, biotechnology, environmental monitoring, and animal health.

Contact Cardea

Lasse Gorlitz, VP of Communications

US phone: +1 858 319 7135

EU phone: +45 2758 2601

[email protected]

SOURCE Cardea Bio
Leveraging Cedar Gate's data and analytics platform, EHE Health will share customizable and actionable insights in real-time

NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, EHE Health, the national leader in preventive care, and Cedar Gate Technologies, a leading value-based care software and technology services company, announced a strategic partnership to offer EHE's US-based clients value-based care analytics to help them better understand and respond to their workforce's overall health status. Through Cedar Gate's solution, EHE Health will be able to support their clients to make more effective decisions when it comes to their employees' health care.

EHE Health will utilize Cedar Gate Analytics to provide employer clients with real-time population health insights, including potentially avoidable hospital admissions and their corresponding cost.  Cedar Gate Technologies. All Rights Reserved.

"We're proud to partner with Cedar Gate to help bring our clients unmatched analytics when it comes to their population's health," said Greg Mansur, Chief Strategy Officer of EHE Health. "Whether the issues relate to data highlighting opportunities, challenges, or overall performance, the ability to bring real-time, actionable insights about the care experience addresses an important and unmet marketplace need. This information is powerful and has great potential to yield measurable results."

Dashboards will provide employers with the ability to quickly compare financial and clinical metrics, identify trends, benchmark health plan performance and create comprehensive reports.

"Our dynamic platform gives EHE needed infrastructure to empower their clients to make actionable decisions based on relevant data," said David L. Morris, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer at Cedar Gate. "We're pleased to extend this technology to EHE Health and their robust client roster."

Custom dashboards offer easy-to-use, definitive and applicable visuals of complex data, which can be compared with similar geographical populations. These tools provide recommendations on ways to enhance the overall care experience and make real-time adjustments to support cost savings, such as getting people to the right place of care.

"By providing our clients real-time insights and trends backed by data, we can optimize care at that moment for better outcomes," said Joy Altimare, Chief Revenue Officer of EHE Health. "We want to help our clients have a better understanding of where their population sits when it comes to preventive health measures, target areas for improvement, which will ultimately result in healthier, happier employees and improve bottom lines for employers."

For more information, visit www.ehe.health or www.cedargate.com.

About EHE Health

EHE Health is a national healthcare provider network and center of excellence in preventive health and primary care, that partners with mid- and large-sized employers to give their employees and beneficiaries an entry point to organized healthcare, beginning with prevention. Named by Fortune Magazine and Great Place to Work as one of the Best Workplaces in 2021, EHE Health is headquartered in New York City and operates and/or contracts with 200 health clinics across the U.S., staffed by a network of curated primary care physicians and clinicians. For 109 years, EHE Health has been an innovator and leader in helping people live longer, healthier lives with personalized preventive care. For more information, visit us at www.ehe.health.

About Cedar Gate Technologies

Cedar Gate enables payers, providers, employers, and service administrators to excel at value-based care. Our unified technology and services platform enhances and automates data management activities to deliver employer and provider analytics, care management, and payment technology necessary to pursue every payment model and optimize performance in all lines of business. From primary care attribution, to bundled payments, to capitation, our platform is designed to improve clinical, financial, and operational outcomes for all. To learn more, visit www.cedargate.com

Media Contact: Erin Gordon, Current Global | [email protected] | 608-279-2947

SOURCE EHE Health
SAO JOSE DOS CAMPOS, Brazil, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Embraer S.A. (B3: EMBR3,NYSE: ERJ) ("Company") informs its shareholders and the market that it became aware of the Brazilian Federal Government's decision to suppress one aircraft in the context of Contracts 002/DCTA-COPAC/2014 and 10/DCTA-COPAC/2014, entered into in 2014 among the Brazilian Federal Government, Embraer and one of its subsidiaries ("Contracts").

The Company will assess the suitability of the aforesaid decision. If suitable, the Company will assess the applicable terms to ensure the Contracts economic and financial balance as well as the effects of the aircraft suppression, if it is to occur, in its business and results.

Antonio Carlos Garcia

Executive Vice-President and CFO

SOURCE Embraer S.A.
The Double-Digit Growth of Literature Review Software Platform, DistillerSR, Sparks Formation of Growth Investment Consortium Led by Thomvest Ventures

OTTAWA, ON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Evidence Partners Inc., the market leader in AI-enabled literature review automation software and creator of DistillerSR, today announced that it has closed a $20 million growth financing round led by Thomvest Ventures with participation from Pender Ventures and Export Development Canada (EDC). Evidence Partners will use the funds to accelerate global growth and hire additional product, engineering, sales, marketing, and customer success talent.

Bootstrapped since its formation in 2008, Evidence Partners pioneered the development of AI-enabled literature review software through the development of DistillerSR, which has had double-digit growth since the platform's launch in 2009. Literature reviews are the cornerstone of evidence-based research, but their production has traditionally been highly manual, time consuming and error prone. Today, more than 300 of the world's leading research organizations, including more than 60 per cent of the largest pharmaceutical and medical device companies, trust DistillerSR to securely produce transparent, audit-ready and regulatory compliant literature reviews faster and more accurately than any other method.

"This new funding will allow us to further accelerate product innovation, enabling our customers to continue to bring life-changing medical products and research to market faster," said Peter O'Blenis, CEO of Evidence Partners. "As the market leader for AI-enabled literature review software, the company will further invest in go-to-market initiatives to ensure that the global research community is aware of and can access this important technology."

"The Evidence Partners team has built an industry-leading product and a global customer base of institutions and enterprises  all without external capital," said Andrew Pinkerton, Partner at Thomvest Ventures. "We are excited to partner with Evidence Partners as they enter their next phase of growth."

With more organizations using DistillerSR to automate their systematic reviews, healthcare researchers can make more informed and time-sensitive health policy decisions, clinical practice guidelines and regulatory submissions, and deliver better overall research.

About Evidence Partners

For more information about Evidence Partners and DistillerSR, visit www.evidencepartners.com.

About Thomvest Ventures

Thomvest Ventures is a cross-stage venture capital fund backed by Peter Thomson. The firm is focused on financial technology & proptech, cybersecurity & cloud infrastructure, and sales & marketing technology. Thomvest Ventures has been investing in entrepreneurs for more than 25 years through its offices in Silicon Valley and Toronto. The firm is committed to helping our companies become leaders in their fields through our partnership and our focus on understanding where value can be created in these industries. To learn more, visit Thomvest.com.

About Pender Ventures

Pender Ventures is the brand of Pender Private Equity Fund Management Inc. ('Pender Ventures') which is the private technology company investing arm of PenderFund Capital Management ('PenderFund'). Pender Ventures is 100% owned by PenderFund, an independent, diversified asset manager based in Vancouver, BC. PenderFund's family of funds invests across private and public equities and fixed income. For more information, visit www.penderventures.com.

About Export Development Canada

Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation dedicated to helping Canadian businesses make an impact at home and abroad. EDC has the financial products and knowledge Canadian companies need to confidently enter new markets, reduce financial risk and grow their business as they go from local to global. Together, EDC and Canadian companies are building a more prosperous, stronger and sustainable economy for all Canadians.

For more information and to learn how we can help your company, call us at 1-800-229-0575 or visit www.edc.ca.

 Evidence Partners is a registered trademark of Evidence Partners, Inc.

 DistillerSR is a trademark of Evidence Partners, Inc.

SOURCE Evidence Partners
HANKINSON, N.D., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Farmers Union Oil of Southern Valley and Cenex, the energy brand of CHS, have selected Cares for Cancer as the recipient of a $25,000 grant. Cares for Cancer was nominated by Farmers Union Oil of Southern Valley for the organization's dedication to supporting local community members battling cancer and the families caring for them.

Cares for Cancer, based in Hankinson, N.D., supports local community members battling chronic disease.

"Cancer is a devastating disease that can take over a person's entire life," says Keith Muehler, petroleum manager of Farmers Union Oil of Southern Valley. "We are extremely grateful to work with Cenex to support organizations like Cares for Cancer."

Founded in 2006, Cares for Cancer's mission is to make a difference within the community by helping those who have been diagnosed with a detrimental illness and who need additional financial support to meet their medical and transport needs. Initially, the organization began as a small group of 10 members who volunteered with a local hospice center. Cares for Cancer has since evolved into a team of 28 dedicated community volunteers and a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization that is dedicated to making a substantial local impact.

Funded solely from surrounding communities, businesses and individuals, Cares for Cancer awards ten $500 grants each month to help alleviate the burdens community members or their families may be experiencing as they battle their illness. The Cenex Hometown Pride 2.0 grant will be used to award an additional 50 $500 grants to community members.

"We are overjoyed to know that we are able to make even more of an impact within Hankinson, N.D., and the surrounding communities, thanks to Farmers Union Oil of Southern Valley and Cenex," says Tara Steffens, committee co-chair of Cares for Cancer. "Helping just one additional family would be wonderful, but to award 50 more people with grants means more to us than words can express."

By the end of 2022, local organizations across the Cenex footprint will have received over $400,000 in Hometown Pride grants since the program first began in 2019. Whether it be a nonprofit organization, initiative, community service or tradition, Cenex works to fuel the community aspects driving positive change for their hometowns today and for generations to come.

"We take pride in fostering connections with local communities," says Sarah Haugen, marketing communications director at CHS. "Through our Hometown Pride grant initiative, we are able to partner with our network of Cenex branded dealers to directly support the local organizations and commend the work they do for their community."

If you'd like to learn more about the ways Cenex gives back to local communities, follow @CenexStores on Facebook and visit www.Cenex.com/local-giving.

About Cenex

Cenex (www.cenex.com), the energy brand of CHS, provides high-quality refined fuels through nearly 1,400-plus locally-owned convenience store locations across 19 states. Consumers depend on Cenex fuels, lubricants, propane and renewable energy products to power homes, businesses and communities. CHS, Inc.(www.chsinc.com), which owns the Cenex brand, is a leading global agribusiness owned by American farmers across the United States with domestic and international operations including energy, agronomy, grain trading and food processing.

Jessica Coyne, media contact, Exponent PR

608-217-5534, [email protected]

Sarah Haugen, marketing communications director, CHS

651-355-4592, [email protected]

SOURCE CHS Inc.
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fictiv, the operating system for custom manufacturing , announced today that in response to customer demand, it is expanding its injection molding manufacturing partner network in the U.S. This will increase capacity for domestic resources, offering customers more flexibility and reduced supply chain risks.

Fictiv customer TransMed7 cut new product development time on five new medical devices from 10 years to two by using Fictivs cloud-based digital manufacturing platform.

"At Fictiv, our goal is to offer the highest quality parts that meet our customers' changing needs," said Jean Olivieri, chief operations officer at Fictiv. "We serve a variety of industries, and each customer may have different priorities such as lead times, price, or risk. We listen to them and offer optimized solutions."

According to Fictiv's 2022 State of Manufacturing Report , 65% of U.S. manufacturing companies would prefer to increase onshoring due to continued international supply chain disruptions. With more customers seeking options to manufacture domestically, Fictiv's geographically diversified injection molding services provides customers with the flexibility to choose the best solutions for their business.

"Injection molding plays a critical role in scaling the product offerings for several business units of our organization," said Dr. James Vetter, co-founder and chief medical officer of TransMed7. "With today's continuing concerns about unexpected supply chain issues, it is immensely comforting to have Fictiv as a partner, not just for overseas production but also for domestic manufacturing resources. Fictiv's proven track record of dependable communication at key points in component development, final scaling processes, and meticulous attention to detail have always been huge strengths and we are pleased to learn they are expanding operations in the U.S."

Fictiv offers injection molding services for medical , aerospace, robotics, automotive , and consumer electronics applications. To learn more about Fictiv's injection molding services, visit the company's website .

About Fictiv

Fictiv is the operating system (OS) for custom manufacturing that makes it faster, easier, and more efficient to source and supply mechanical parts. Its intelligent OS, supported by best-in-class operations talent, orchestrates a network of highly vetted and managed partners around the globe for fast, high-quality manufacturing, from quote to delivery. To date, Fictiv has manufactured more than 20 million parts for early-stage companies and large enterprises alike, helping them innovate with agility and get products to market faster.

SOURCE Fictiv
-Earnings Call Scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET on August 22, 2022-

SHANGHAI, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- FinVolution Group ("FinVolution", or the "Company") (NYSE: FINV), a leading fintech platform, today announced that it will report its second quarter 2022 unaudited financial results, on Monday, August 22, 2022, after the close of U.S. markets.

The Company's management will host an earnings conference call at 8:30 PM U.S. Eastern Time on August 22, 2022 (8:30 AM Beijing/Hong Kong Time on August 23, 2022).

Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows:

United States (toll free): 1-888-346-8982 Canada (toll free): 1-855-669-9657 International: 1-412-902-4272 Hong Kong, China (toll free): 800-905-945 Hong Kong, China: 852-3018-4992 Mainland, China: 400-120-1203

Participants should dial-in at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start time and ask to be connected to the call for "FinVolution Group."

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available on the Company's investor relations website at https://ir.finvgroup.com.

A replay of the conference call will be accessible approximately one hour after the conclusion of the live call until August 29, 2022, by dialing the following telephone numbers:

United States (toll free): 1-877-344-7529 Canada (toll free): 1-855-669-9658 International: 1-412-317-0088 Replay Access Code: 3371733

About FinVolution Group

FinVolution Group is a leading fintech platform in China connecting underserved individual borrowers with financial institutions. Established in 2007, the Company is a pioneer in China's online consumer finance industry and has developed innovative technologies and has accumulated in-depth experience in the core areas of credit risk assessment, fraud detection, big data and artificial intelligence. The Company's platform, empowered by proprietary cutting-edge technologies, features a highly automated loan transaction process, which enables a superior user experience. As of March 31, 2022, the Company had over 145.3 million cumulative registered users.

For more information, please visit https://ir.finvgroup.com.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

FinVolution Group

Head of Investor Relations

Jimmy Tan

Tel: +86 (21) 8030 3200- Ext 8601

E-mail: [email protected]

The Piacente Group, Inc.

Jenny Cai

Tel: +86 (10) 6508-0677

E-mail: [email protected]

In the United States:

The Piacente Group, Inc.

Brandi Piacente

Tel: +1-212-481-2050

E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE FinVolution Group
OMAHA, Neb., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Fusion Medical Staffing has landed a spot on the Fortune and Great Place to Work Best Medium Workplaces list. Earning this spot means Fusion is one of the best companies to work for in the country.

To determine the Best Medium Workplaces list, Great Place to Work analyzed the survey responses of over 200,000 employees from Great Place to Work-Certified companies with 100 to 999 U.S. employees. In that survey, 98% of Fusion's employees said Fusion is a great place to work.

Fusion Medical Staffing lands spot on Fortune's 2022 Best Medium Workplaces list.

"Winning an award that is determined by how our employees feel about working at Fusion is a very special thing," said Fusion CEO Steve Koesters. "We're honored to be recognized on the 2022 Best Medium Workplaces list because it lets us know our employees feel valued, and we know what standard we want to keep up with and improve on moving forward."

The Best Medium Workplaces list is highly competitive. Great Place to Work is the only company culture award in America that selects winners based on how fairly employees are treated. Companies are assessed on how well they are creating a great employee experience that cuts across race, gender, age, disability status, or any aspect of who employees are or what their role is.

"It's not the size of an organization that makes it great, but how the organization treats its people," said Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place to Work. "And these medium workplaces have proven that the inspiring cultures they've created go head-to-head with those of any large corporation. Leaders at these companies put their people first, and in return, achieve stronger business results than the average workplace."

Fusion Medical Staffing is hiring across several departments. You can apply today at fusionmedstaff.com.

About Fusion Medical Staffing:

Fusion Medical Staffing connects traveling healthcare professionals with their dream job anywhere in the country. We give our travelers the support they need to be heroes in their workplace. We exist to ensure everyone we touch has a better life. We strive to stay humble, driven, and positive.

Media Contact:

Leah Kemple

402-575-5625

[email protected]

SOURCE Fusion Medical Staffing
Fraport sees dynamic passenger growth  Group revenue rises noticeably (up 66.3 percent), buoyed by rapid growth in Frankfurt and at the Group airports worldwide  Write-down leads to high one-time effect and negative Group result

FRANKFURT, Germany, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ --FRA/gk-rap  Following the widespread lifting of pandemic-related travel restrictions, the airports across the Fraport Group recorded a strong rebound in passenger traffic. Some of Fraport's Greek airports serving holiday destinations  including Rhodes, Santorini and Kerkyra on the island of Corfu  even exceeded 2019 pre-crisis passenger levels during the first six months of 2022. Supported by the overall rise in travel demand, Fraport's Group revenue rose by 66.3 percent to 1,348.5 million in the January-to-June period of the current business year 2022.

Fraport's CEO Dr. Stefan Schulte stated: "Since March, we have been experiencing a strong upward trend in passenger traffic across our Group because people are able and eager to travel once again. At Frankfurt Airport, we are now expecting between 45 million and 50 million passengers for the full year 2022. Thus, this is higher traffic volume than expected at the beginning of the year. Our key operating financial figures have also improved  even when adjusting for last year's positive one-off effects such as the reimbursement we received for maintaining Frankfurt Airport's operations during the lockdown, as well as the pandemic compensation obtained in Greece. The main factors supporting this favorable development included the strong performance from the airports in our international portfolio and the positive contribution resulting from the divestiture of our Xi'an investment. Nevertheless, we are still far from reaching the levels seen in 2019."

Passenger traffic driven by strong demand for holiday travel

In the first six months of 2022, nearly 21 million passengers traveled via Fraport's home-base Frankfurt Airport (FRA). While this was still 38 percent below the traffic volume achieved in pre-pandemic 2019, the figure represents a growth rate of 220 percent compared to the same period in 2021. For the first time since the start of the pandemic, FRA welcomed almost 5 million passengers in June 2022  which surpassed 75 percent of the traffic registered in the same month of the 2019 record year.

"The strong and dynamic recovery in passenger traffic poses some major operational challenges for us. Unfortunately, this also results in recurrent delays," said CEO Schulte referring to the present situation in Frankfurt. "Nevertheless, with the start of the summer school vacations in Germany, we have been able to maintain stable and reliable operations. This underscores the effectiveness of the measures that we have implemented in Frankfurt, in cooperation with our partners. However, there is still a way to go until we will fully meet our own quality requirements again."

Cargo volumes in Frankfurt decreased by 11.5 percent year-on-year to around 1.0 million metric tons in the first half of 2022. After a strong cargo performance in 2021, the decline can be mainly attributed to the airspace restrictions following the war in Ukraine, as well as to the effects of numerous lockdowns implemented in China as part of its zero-Covid strategy. Fraport's Group airports outside of Germany achieved higher passenger growth than Frankfurt because they benefitted to a greater extent from their primary function as tourism gateways and the rise in holiday travel.

Key operating figures improve noticeably

Supported by dynamic passenger growth, Fraport's Group revenue increased noticeably by 66.3 percent to 1,348.5 million. Adjusted for revenue from construction and expansion measures at Fraport's subsidiaries worldwide (in line with IFRIC 12), Group revenue grew by 67.7 percent to 1,211.8 million. The sale of Fraport's complete stake in the Xi'an airport company in China contributed a total of 53.7 million, which was recognized in the balance sheet as other operating income.

Fraport's Group EBITDA (earnings before interests, taxes, depreciation and amortization) increased by 21.8 percent year-on-year to 408.3 million. Thus, EBITDA grew at a slower pace than revenue, because last year's second-quarter EBITDA was strongly impacted by several positive one-off effects. Group EBIT rose to 181.9 million (from 116.1 million in the first half of 2021).

Group result in negative territory due to one-off effects

With minus 290.8 million, the Group's financial result was clearly negative for the first half of 2022. This was primarily due to the full write-down of the 163.3 million loan receivable from Thalita Trading Ltd., the company that holds Fraport's minority stake in the operator of St. Petersburg's Pulkovo Airport (LED). CEO Schulte explained: "In view of the further development of sanctions related to Russia's war against Ukraine, we have fully written off this loan receivable. At the same time, we are fully maintaining our claims related to the loan. The write-off does not imply a divestiture, since, under the current concession agreement, a sale of our stake in Pulkovo continues to be excluded until 2025."

Against this background, Group EBT fell to minus 108.9 million in the first six months of 2022 (6M 2021: 19.9 million). The Group result or net profit decreased to minus 53.1 million (6M 2021: 15.4 million).

Outlook

After conclusion of the first half of 2022, Fraport's executive board is revising the full-year passenger outlook for Frankfurt Airport upwards. Germany's largest aviation hub is now expected to welcome about 45 million to 50 million passengers in 2022 (previous forecast: 39 million to 46 million passengers).

Accounting for the positive traffic trend and two significant one-off effects, Fraport is also adjusting the outlook for some of the Group's key financial figures. Specifically, EBITDA for the full year is now expected to reach a higher range of between about 850 million and 970 million, following the conclusion of the Xi'an divestiture (previous forecast: 760 million to 880 million). Correspondingly, Group EBIT is now projected to reach between approximately 400 million and 520 million (previous forecast: 320 million to 440 million). In contrast, Fraport is revising the previous outlook for the full-year Group result (net profit) downward to a range of between about 0 and 100 million, due to the full write-down of the loan receivable from Thalita Trading Ltd. (previous forecast: 50 million to 100 million).

Print-quality photos of Fraport AG and Frankfurt Airport are available for free downloading via the photo library on the Fraport Web site. For TV news and information broadcasting purposes only, we also offer free footage material for downloading. If you wish to meet a member of our Media Relations team when at Frankfurt Airport, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our contact details are available here.

Fraport AG

Christian Engel Telephone: +49 69 690-30713

Corporate Communications E-mail: [email protected]

60547 Frankfurt, Germany www.fraport.com

About Fraport AG and Frankfurt Airport

Headquartered in Frankfurt, Germany, Fraport AG (Frankfurt Stock Exchange, MDAX) is one of the leading players in the global airport business. Fraport's portfolio of companies spans four continents with activities at 29 airports worldwide. In pre-pandemic 2019, more than 182 million passengers used airports in which Fraport has at least a 50 percent stake. Impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, Fraport's majority-owned Group airports welcomed only about 86 million passengers in 2021. In fiscal year 2021 (Dec. 31), Fraport AG generated revenue of 2.1 billion and profit of some 92 million.

Fraport's home-base Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is strategically located in the heart of Europe at the junction of vital intermodal road, rail and air networks. The surrounding Frankfurt Rhine-Main-Neckar region serves as an economic powerhouse and logistics hub for Europe and the world. In 2019, FRA welcomed more than 70.5 million passengers and handled 2.1 million metric tons of cargo. Only 24.8 million passengers traveled through FRA in 2021, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In terms of cargo, FRA ranks first in Europe with 2.3 million metric tons handled in 2021.

SOURCE Fraport AG
Water Restrictions Set to Ease

The Strategic Coordination Group met this morning at No.6 Convent Place to discuss the latest situation regarding the disruption to water supply across Gibraltar.

The latest advice received by the Government from AquaGib is that the situation has continued to improve over the weekend with more significant continued gains in stock levels being achieved. Further steps to accelerate production are planned for this week.

The advice from AquaGib remains that it is crucial for members of the public to continue being responsible with their water consumption, as they have these past 11 days. This will allow AquaGib to continue to replenish stocks and therefore allow the return to normality at the earliest opportunity.

The Government hopes to be in a position to remove the nightly restrictions by Wednesday of this week, subject to the continued responsible consumption of water by the community. Additionally, based on AquaGibs professional advice, Government says it is hopeful that it will be in a position to remove all remaining restrictions on water consumption on Monday 15th August. This will exclude shipping as restrictions will continue for at least one further week due to the large amounts of water consumption in this industry.

The Government would like to remind the public that non-potable water continues to be available at Morrisons car park and lower New Harbours Industrial Park. This water can be used for watering plants, cleaning, and any other non-essential usage. This water should NOT be used for drinking or cooking.

The Government expects to issue a further update later this week.
Samsung Biologics' mission to create a better world through high-quality biopharmaceuticals is underscored by a series of global initiatives to deliver progress related to climate change

SAN ANTONIO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan Institute is proud to present Samsung Biologics with the 2022 Enlightened Growth Leadership Award. The Institute believes that all organizations must either create or become part of a solution that addresses threats to humanity. Samsung Biologics has not only demonstrated growth excellence through its strong financial performance in 2021, but also excels as a socially responsible enterprise with a concerted focus on the company's strong ESG and sustainability initiatives.

Research from the Frost & Sullivan Institute and Frost & Sullivan, states that With end-to-end, integrated biopharmaceutical solutions in contract development and manufacturing, and expansion plans across Asia, America, and Europe with an underlying vision to enrich human lives, Samsung Biologics stands out for its contribution in protecting and prolonging human lives by producing life-saving drugs and vaccines in collaboration with its clients."

As a response to climate change, Samsung Biologics made progress in reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 32.3% compared to the previous year. To foster collaborative solutions, Samsung Biologics also announced its participation in the Frontier 1.5D initiative to develop a climate risk management model as part of the 2050 Carbon Neutral Strategy in response to the ongoing challenges associated with global climate change. The company is participating in the Health Systems Taskforce as part of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales' Sustainable Markets Initiative, alongside global leaders from across the healthcare system, academia, and international organizations like the WHO and UNICEF. By committing to Science-Based Targets and environmental reporting in line with the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), the company continues to effectively contribute to Sustainable Development Goals of Good Health and Well-Being and Responsible Consumption and Production.

Samsung Biologics has also been actively making social contributions, providing youth education and scholarship support, equitable access to quality and affordable healthcare services, and childcare support. Jointly with other Samsung affiliates, the company has introduced new programs like Dream Class to provide career counseling for students in low-income families and the Stepping Stone of Hope to offer training and support for at-risk youth.

Research from the Frost & Sullivan Institute and Frost & Sullivan, states that "With end-to-end, integrated biopharmaceutical solutions in contract development and manufacturing, and expansion plans across Asia, America, and Europe with an underlying vision to enrich human lives, Samsung Biologics stands out for its contribution in protecting and prolonging human lives by producing life-saving drugs and vaccines in collaboration with its clients. This recognition is also a testimony to Samsung Biologics' unwavering commitment to the vision of 'innovating to zero'  zero global illnesses, zero emissions, and zero workplace accidents achieved through professional excellence, science-based emission reduction targets, and robust safety assessment frameworks."

"We are proud to receive this award and be recognized for our efforts in proactively addressing global priorities, while securing continuous growth as a sustainable CDMO partner. We will continue to implement innovative and sound business practices throughout our value chains to build a healthier ecosystem, driving a sustainable future for all," said John Rim, CEO and President of Samsung Biologics.

Frost & Sullivan Institute evaluates nominees on key best practices criteria such as Innovating to Zero, Growth Excellence, and so on. Samsung Biologics excels in multiple criteria. The Enlightened Growth Leadership Awards recognize organizations that are committed to making the world a better place and that are part of the solution to challenges our world faces today. The Award considers the synergy between growth, CSR, and ESG. Recipient companies proactively utilize business practices to 'innovate to zero' and address global priorities while securing sustainable growth.

Samsung Biologics, along with other recipients of the Enlightened Growth Leadership Best Practices Recognition, will be awarded and celebrated at our virtual banquet on 22nd November 2022.

About Frost & Sullivan Institute

The Frost & Sullivan Institute (FSI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to utilizing business practices to address global priorities. The genesis of the institute goes back to the vision of either creating, or becoming part of, a solution that addresses threats to humanity. The Institute has identified strategic imperatives for transformation and believes that we can truly accelerate innovation to zero. To learn more about FSI, visit www.frostandsullivaninstitute.org

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion.

Media Contact:

Prerna Mohan

[email protected]

About Samsung Biologics Co., Ltd.

Samsung Biologics (KRX: 207940.KS) is a fully integrated CDMO offering state-of-the-art contract development and manufacturing services. With proven regulatory approvals, the largest capacity, and the fastest throughput, Samsung Biologics is an award-winning partner of choice and is uniquely able to support the development and manufacturing of biologics products at every stage of the process while meeting the evolving needs of biopharmaceutical companies worldwide. For more information, visit samsungbiologics.com.

Samsung Biologics Contact:

Claire Kim

Senior Director of Global Marketing Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE Frost & Sullivan
Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market has increased owing to the rising prevalence of erectile dysfunction cases among men. According to the CDC 2021, getting aged does not cause erectile dysfunction, but it does increase the chances of being affected by it. Thereby, the rise in the geriatric population of men is a significant factor that boosts the growth of the Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market.

LAS VEGAS , Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Insights and Forecast report provides the current and forecast Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market, upcoming innovations in the devices, individual market shares, challenges, drivers and barriers, market trends, and key competitors in the Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market.

Some of the essential takeaways from the Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market report:

As per DelveInsight analysis, in terms of revenue share, North America is predicted to register the fastest growth in the Erectile Dysfunction Devices market.

is predicted to register the fastest growth in the Erectile Dysfunction Devices market. Some of the Global Erectile Dysfunction Devices Device companies with devices in various stages of development include Coloplast Corporation, MTS Medical UG, NOVAmedtek, Shenzhen Huikang Medical Apparatus Co., Ltd., Zimmer Aesthetics, Augusta Medical Systems, Medispec Ltd., Promedon, UroMatrix Medical Systems, Pos-T-Vac Medical, Owen Mumford Ltd, Vacurect Manufacturing (PTY) Ltd., Boston Scientific Corporation, Global Life Technologies LLC, Zephyr Surgical Implants, The Elator, SLIMED, Tyna International Ltd., STORZ MEDICAL AG, Reflexonic, LLC, and others.

and others. In January 2021 , manufacturer Giddy launched Eddie , a first-of-its-kind, wearable, FDA Class II erectile dysfunction device which works with the natural physiology of an erection.

, manufacturer , a first-of-its-kind, wearable, FDA Class II erectile dysfunction device which works with the natural physiology of an erection. In January 2020 , Morari Medical developed a wearable device that treated premature ejaculation using neuromodulation. Such technological advancement in the field of Erectile Dysfunction Devices is likely to boost the Global Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market.

developed a wearable device that treated premature ejaculation using neuromodulation. Such technological advancement in the field of Erectile Dysfunction Devices is likely to boost the Global Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market. In January 2020 , Launch Medical launched The Rocket , the world's first at-home treatment device that utilizes soundwave therapy to reverse symptoms of ED completely. The device's benefit is that it improves sexual performance without drugs, has no side effects, and has zero downtime.

, launched , the world's first at-home treatment device that utilizes soundwave therapy to reverse symptoms of ED completely. The device's benefit is that it improves sexual performance without drugs, has no side effects, and has zero downtime. In July 2019 , Boston Scientific Corporation launched the Tactra Malleable Penile Prosthesis in the United States to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).

To pick on the latest highlights related to the Erectile Dysfunction Devices implantable device market, get a snapshot in the Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Sample Report

Erectile Dysfunction Devices Overview

Erectile Dysfunction is one of the most familiar disorders reported in men across all age groups. It is defined as the inability to maintain an erection firm enough to engage in sexual intercourse. Even though erectile dysfunction occurs sporadically, it is concerning when it occurs frequently and requires medical attention. Erectile dysfunction devices are designed to focus on the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction. Since an increased blood flow causes erection in the penis, most devices work similarly to induce a penile erection by providing that to the penis.

Technological advancements have led to the development of numerous devices that help treat erectile dysfunction and can also be used by patients themselves.

Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Insight

Geographically, the Global Erectile Dysfunction Devices market is studied for North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. Regarding revenue, North America accounts for the highest revenue share compared with the Global Erectile Dysfunction Devices market, which will remain constant during the forecast period. However, the domination of North America is due to the growing prevalence of erectile dysfunction cases in the region. North America represents the largest Erectile Dysfunction Devices market worldwide, supported by developed healthcare infrastructure and strong adoption of technologically advanced products owing to the rise in healthcare expenditure by the government. One such technological advancement was in January 2021, Alma Lasers launched Alma Duo, a device for treating Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in men. It uses the shock wave technology-focused low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy (LI-ESWT). Making it available in North America only.

Click here to understand more about the key players in the Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market and their future @ Erectile Dysfunction Devices Future Assessment

Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Dynamics

The major drivers driving the demand for Erectile Dysfunction Devices are the growing cases of erectile dysfunction, the increase in the geriatric population of men, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Also, factors such as a sedentary lifestyle that involves smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and technological advancements will also lead to a surge in the Erectile Dysfunction Devices market.

On the contrary, certain factors like the availability of alternative drugs and the high cost of invasive devices may restrict the growth of the Global Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has also led to the cancellation of outpatient visits and the suspension of non-emergency hospitals and procedures, leading to obstruction in the Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market growth.

To gain a better understanding of the COVID-19 impact on Erectile Dysfunction Devices, get a snapshot of the COVID-19 Impact on the Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market

Scope of the Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Report

Coverage : Global

Global Study Period: 2019-2027

2019-2027 Market Segmentation By Product - Penile Implants, Shockwave Therapy Devices, Vacuum Therapy Devices, Others

Penile Implants, Shockwave Therapy Devices, Vacuum Therapy Devices, Others Market Segmentation By Approach - Invasive, Non-Invasive

- Invasive, Non-Invasive Market Segmentation By End-User - Hospitals and Clinics, Ambulatory Surgical Centers (Asc), Others

Hospitals and Clinics, Ambulatory Surgical Centers (Asc), Others Market Segmentation by Geography: North America, Europe , Asia-Pacific , Rest of the World ( Middle East , Africa , and South America )

North America, , , Rest of the World ( , , and ) Key Erectile Dysfunction Devices Companies - Coloplast Corporation, Zimmer Aesthetics, Augusta Medical Systems, Medispec Ltd., MTS Medical UG, NOVAmedtek, Shenzhen Huikang Medical Apparatus Co., Ltd., Promedon, Boston Scientific Corporation, Global Life Technologies LLC, Zephyr Surgical Implants, UroMatrix Medical Systems, Pos-T-Vac Medical, Owen Mumford Ltd, Vacurect Manufacturing (PTY) Ltd., The Elator, SILIMED, Tyna International Ltd., STORZ MEDICAL AG, Reflexonic, LLC, and others.

Coloplast Corporation, Zimmer Aesthetics, Augusta Medical Systems, Medispec Ltd., MTS Medical UG, NOVAmedtek, Shenzhen Huikang Medical Apparatus Co., Ltd., Promedon, Boston Scientific Corporation, Global Life Technologies LLC, Zephyr Surgical Implants, UroMatrix Medical Systems, Pos-T-Vac Medical, Owen Mumford Ltd, Vacurect Manufacturing (PTY) Ltd., The Elator, SILIMED, Tyna International Ltd., STORZ MEDICAL AG, Reflexonic, LLC, and others. Product Profiles, Case Studies, KOL's Views, Analyst's View

Delveinsight Analysis: The Global Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market was valued at USD 1.77 Billion in 2021, growing at a CAGR of 9.46% during the forecast period from 2022 to 2027, to reach USD 3.04 billion by 2027.

Know more about which MedTech player is set to emerge as the trendsetter in the Global Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market @ Key Erectile Dysfunction Devices Companies Analysis

Table of Contents

1 Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Report Introduction 2 Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Executive summary 3 Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Regulatory and Patent Analysis 4 Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Key Factors Analysis 5 Erectile Dysfunction Devices Porter's Five Forces Analysis 6 COVID-19 Impact Analysis on Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market 7 Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Layout 8 Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Global Company Share Analysis  Key 3-5 Companies 9 Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Company and Product Profiles 10 Project Approach 11 KOL Views 12 DelveInsight Capabilities 13 Disclaimer 14 About DelveInsight

Learn More About DelveInsight Report Offerings: Erectile Dysfunction Devices Market Report

Erectile Dysfunction Market

DelveInsight's "Erectile Dysfunction Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast-2032" report delivers an in-depth understanding of Erectile Dysfunction, historical and forecasted epidemiology as well as the Erectile Dysfunction market trends, and key Erectile dysfunction companies involved like Augusta Medical Systems, Medispec Ltd., Promedon, UroMatrix Medical Systems, Pos-T-Vac Medical, and many others.

Erectile Dysfunction Pipeline

DelveInsight's "Erectile Dysfunction Pipeline Insight, 2022," report provides comprehensive insights about 22+ companies and 22+ pipeline drugs in the Erectile dysfunction pipeline landscape. It covers the pipeline drug profiles, including clinical and nonclinical stage products, and key Erectile dysfunction companies involved like Vigonvita Life Sciences, Futura Medical Developments, Initiator Pharma, Pharmicell Co., Ltd., BioIntegrate, Biozeus Biopharmaceutical, Can-Fite Biopharma, Fabre-Kramer Pharmaceuticals, Humanetics Pharmaceuticals, Hemostemix Inc., and many others.

Postoperative Gastrointestinal Dysfunction Market

DelveInsight's "Postoperative Gastrointestinal Dysfunction Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast-2032" report delivers an in-depth understanding of the Postoperative Gastrointestinal Dysfunction, epidemiology insights, Postoperative Gastrointestinal Dysfunction market trends, market drivers & barriers, key postoperative gastrointestinal dysfunction companies in the United States, EU5 (Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and United Kingdom) and Japan.

Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome Market

DelveInsight's "Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast-2032" report delivers an in-depth understanding of the Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome, epidemiology insights, Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome market trends, market dricers & barriers, key multiple organ dysfunction syndrome companies in the United States, EU5 (Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and United Kingdom) and Japan.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Market

DelveInsight's "Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast-2032" report delivers an in-depth understanding of the Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, epidemiology insights, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction market trends, market drivers & barriers, key meibomian gland dysfunction companies in the United States, EU5 (Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and United Kingdom) and Japan.

Ventricular Dysfunction Market

DelveInsight's "Ventricular Dysfunction Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast-2032" report delivers an in-depth understanding of the Ventricular Dysfunction, epidemiology insights, Ventricular Dysfunction market trends, market drivers & barriers, key ventricular dysfunction companies in the United States, EU5 (Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and United Kingdom) and Japan.

Recent Healthcare Blogs by DelveInsight:

About DelveInsight

DelveInsight is a leading Business Consultant and Market Research firm focused exclusively on life sciences. It supports Pharma companies by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to improve their performance. Get hassle-free access to all the healthcare and pharma market research reports through our subscription-based platform PharmDelve.

Get in touch with our team to get more detailed insights into how the MedTech Market is expected to advance in the coming years and formulate innovative business solutions at MedTech Consulting Solutions.

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SOURCE DelveInsight Business Research, LLP
DUBLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Telehealth Kiosk Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2022-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global telehealth kiosk market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 19% during 2022-2027.



The positive results of telehealth kiosk are widespread in reducing medical costs. Nursing is at the forefront of achieving these results and was one of the first users of healthcare IT to feature patient involvement. Hospitals are increasingly generating revenue from using telehealth kiosks, helping them relentlessly focus on improving patient outcomes.



The adoption of telehealth kiosks in developed countries is higher than in developing countries. Some key players in the telehealth kiosk market strive to combine customer suggestions for patient experience, patient satisfaction, and patient outcomes. Stakeholders in the telehealth kiosk market are pushing these proposals to attract healthcare providers and patients.



Telehealth kiosks aim to break barriers and provide equal access to medical services and interventions. They can help overcome obstacles of a face-to-face consultation, including schedule issues, bad weather, and illness. It also allows patient tracking and monitoring. The newest model is a Mobile telehealth kiosk that can provide instant access to the people in remote places and can be moved to the areas where it is required. It facilitates consumers to access health information consultation support.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GLOBAL TELEHEALTH KIOSK MARKET

The introduction of digital platforms in healthcare has made consultations and procedures a simple task for healthcare professionals to perform due to better connectivity. This is increasing the adoption of telehealth kiosks. The technological advancements and rising global investments in telehealth are helping the end-users in terms of time management, cost of care, and remote monitoring in emergencies.

Developed countries like the US, the UK, France, and Japan are the major contributors to telehealth platform adoption. The increasing prevalence of chronic disease patient population is hitting the demand for healthcare services, accelerating the adoption of telehealth to provide patient-centric care.

Market players are offering advanced telehealth solutions to fulfill the unmet needs of traditional healthcare platforms. New players are emerging in the market with some digital-non-healthcare players, which is increasing the adoption of remote monitoring of patients. The market will provide enormous opportunities for the emerging players during the forecast period.

Potential and technological advancements in Telehealth Kiosk Market

Specialty-specific telehealth kiosk are also introduced in the market; Mental health telehealth kiosk have customized solutions for the patients. This kiosk technology can potentially improve the quality of health care and make it accessible to more people. Telehealth kiosk provide an opportunity to coordinate healthcare more efficiently, better, and closer to home.

For example, studies have shown that providing telephone support and remote monitoring of vital signs to people with heart failure reduces the risk of death and hospitalization. This helps to improve the quality of patient life. Clinical usage of remote healthcare technologies includes transmitting medical images for diagnosis & disease management, and individuals or groups can help provide better care.



The rising burden of chronic diseases

Chronic diseases and seasonal flu illnesses are on the rise around the world. The aging population and changes in lifestyle have contributed to the steady increase in these common and costly long-term health problems. Emerging economies hit hardest; telehealth kiosk provide the ideal solutions by increasing access to healthcare solutions. Access to medical needs has become a significant problem in many developing countries.



Rising investment in digital health

The companies are raising plenty of cash in the funding rounds. The digital health companies raised $57.2 billion worldwide in 2021 with 2,930 deals, increasing 79% from 2020. While digital health investments covered many functional areas and offerings, start-ups in the biopharma and MedTech R&D space gained the highest funding. In contrast, the mental health and diabetes specialty segment saw increased investments.



COVID-19 IMPACT

The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed the world and its economic situation into difficult market conditions. COVID-19 pandemic primarily increased the adoption of telehealth kiosk.

Many hospitals have seen an increase in tele consultations.. Especially chronic disease management, post-surgical visits, pediatric care, and mental health consultations have significantly shifted towards using Telehealth kiosk. The stalls can reduce overcrowding in emergency rooms, provide emergency consultations and general maintenance, and save on medical facility costs.

The adoption of telehealth kiosk has been one of the most important developments in healthcare during the pandemic. As the COVID-19 epidemic spreads exponentially around the world, the adoption of telehealth was also clearly seen in the countries.



Applications Insights

The applications in the telehealth kiosk market are segmented by teleconsultation, vital sign monitoring, digital pharmacies, and others. The teleconsultation segment dominated the market in 2021 and is expected to grow healthy during the forecast period. Teleconsultations are the most preferred health solutions to avoid waiting, low cost and reduce travel time.



Many large independent pharmacies are installing the telehealth kiosk, which motivates the patients to take up the teleconsultation visits through the stalls and to take medicine directly from the pharmacies. This will increase the sales of drugs in the pharmacies and increase access to healthcare treatments. The author predicts pharmacies will generate double the revenue by 2025 compared to 2021.



End-user Insights

Telehealth platforms are already being adopted by some healthcare facilities concerned with better patient care. The impact of the COVID-19 shifted the adoption rate of telehealth. The surveys showed that patients are ready to utilize telehealth platforms for consultations, second opinions, and medications. This shows healthy growth of the telehealth kiosk market among the end-user segments.



GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS

North America dominated the global telehealth kiosk market and is expected to grow at a healthy growth rate during the forecast period. US and Canada are significant contributors to the market. The region's adoption rate of advanced healthcare solutions is high due to better healthcare infrastructure and the rising chronic diseased population. The adoption of telehealth gives opportunities to non-healthcare IT players to enter the healthcare sector.



Europe is the second-largest region to contribute to the telehealth kiosk market. The presence of market players and the adoption of telehealth services in the area is growing at a healthy rate. Increasing incidences of chronic diseases in the region are shifting the adoption of telehealth solutions.



APAC is still developing in terms of digital healthcare adoption. It offers a huge opportunity for market players in the region due to the demand and usage of telehealth solutions. This region has a presence of emerging players in the market and is expected to offer better opportunities for them.



Latin America, the Middle East & Africa are slow in adopting advanced healthcare solutions. African countries have a vast potential for these technologies, which will help increase access to medical consultation. This region is also investing slowly in advanced healthcare solutions. The digitalization of healthcare in these regions will make it possible to offer better patient outcomes. The market players are shifting their focus to providing economical solutions in low-income countries

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Opportunities & Trends

Telehealth Kiosks for Point-Of-Care Consultation

Next-Generation Telehealth Kiosks Transforming Healthcare Solutions

Digital Tools for Affordable Telehalth

Market Growth Enablers

Ongoing Covid-19 Pandemic & Adoption of Telehealth Kiosks

Rising Burden of Chronic Diseases & Hospitalization Rates

Virtualization Within Healthcare

Market Restraints

Chances of Misdiagnosis Due to Lack of Physical Examination

Dearth of Specific Regulations Worldwide

High Cost of Telehealth Kiosk Equipment

VENDOR LANDSCAPE

Key Vendors

CSI Health

IDOCTORCLOUD

KIOSK Information

Olea Kiosk

Sonka Medical

Other Prominent Vendors

19 LABS

Advantech

Apollo Telehealth

Bewell Connect

Clinics On Cloud

DoctorTouch

H4D

Howard

IPM France

ImedTac

Instapract

Let's Talk

Meridian Kiosk

OnMed

TalkBox Booth

TelaCare Health

Voice Products

Yolo Health

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/kympjc

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

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SOURCE Research and Markets
Leading window treatment franchise recognized by Franchise Business review for excellence among female franchise owners

DENVER, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, has been recognized as one of the best franchises for women by Franchise Business Review. Gotcha Covered is in rare company as only 50 franchise brands qualified for the 2022 list.

Gotcha Covered has been recognized as one of the best franchises for women by Franchise Business Review.

"Being named to this prestigious list is truly an honor," said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. "The franchise industry is a perfect solution for women looking to start their own business, and it's an accomplishment to know that our team works hard to ensure they have the proper tools in place to be successful.

"Our women owners do an excellent job of displaying what the Gotcha Covered brand is all about. They take pride in delivering an excellent customer experience, and we want to support them by providing an excellent franchisee experience."

Gotcha Covered was among 267 franchise brands, representing more than 8,000 female franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review's research.

Franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction in key areas of their franchise system including training and support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations, and financial opportunity.

"Before I became a Gotcha Covered franchise owner, I worked a long time in interior design. So, I had a pretty strong eye for what the community was looking for to beautify their homes," said Claudia Carolina Carrillo, owner of Gotcha Covered of Central Austin. "Even with my prior knowledge, I still needed help as a new business owner, and Gotcha Covered far exceeded my expectations. They are very supportive and always open to answering any of my questions.

"Their corporate team is easy to reach while staying professional in all business aspects. In addition, they provide great franchisee tools to help with business operations. As a female business owner, I couldn't have selected a better family to be a part of."

Adding 27 new franchise locations in 2021, Gotcha Covered currently has over 130 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

Please visit the Franchise Business Review website to see the entire Top 50 Franchises for Women list.

For more information on Gotcha Covered or to find your local consultant, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com.

About Gotcha Covered

Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer's specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 130 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

[email protected]

SOURCE Gotcha Covered
Tyner Ranch Townhomes is located in Kern County, consistently ranked one of the fastest growing counties in California

BAKERSFIELD, Calif., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Graceada Partners is pleased to announce the acquisition of Tyner Ranch Townhome Community, a pioneering build-to-rent single family rental neighborhood built in 2007. The 168-home community consists of 17.5 acres on Chimayo Street, La Posta Street, and Montaro Court in Bakersfield, California. Each unit has a private garage, driveway, and back yard and current in-place rent is an estimated 23% below market. The property was purchased for roughly $183,600 per home.

Graceada Partners

"We see strong demand for this type of propertyand Kern County more broadlyin the coming years," said Joe Muratore, Co-CEO with Graceada Partners. "The concept of a single-family rental community is growing in popularity today, and we are able to buy this innovative neighborhood, built in 2007, well below replacement cost."

In-place rents average $1,160 per month, whereas market rents are 23% higher at $1,430 per month. The underwritten IRR is 20.04% with an equity multiple of 2.41x over a 5-year hold period. The community is located less than one block from the Oswell Street exit on California Highway 58, offering optimal access to all of Bakersfield and Highway 99.

Graceada Partners plans to modernize the interior and exterior look, as well as operations of the property, and plans to bring rents to market as a result. The firm will be installing modern drought-tolerant landscaping introducing RUBs (ratio utility billing system) and establishing a more tenant services approach to management. With the changes, Graceada Partners anticipates a strong increase in the value of the property as well as increasing net operating income.

"This property has not received any interior or exterior updates since construction in 2007," added Ryan Swehla, Co-CEO with Graceada Partners. "We look forward to modernizing this single-family neighborhood and increasing the quality of life for all who call Tyner Ranch their home."

This acquisition is an investment from Graceada Partners Fund III.

Learn more about Graceada Partners and its investment strategy at http://GraceadaPartners.com .

ABOUT GRACEADA PARTNERS

Graceada Partners is a vertically integrated real estate private equity firm focused on institutionalizing secondary & tertiary markets from within  a combination of entrenched market knowledge and institutional expertise. Founded in 2008, the firm has $0.5 billion AUM and employs a team of 50+ professionals to source, capitalize, manage, renovate, lease and sell properties.

The firm's leadership team has decades of combined experience adding value to over $10 billion in assets across office, retail, multifamily and industrial properties. Born in 2008 in the heart of the Global Financial Crisis, Graceada Partners is a seasoned expert with looming economic uncertainties, which has allowed the firm to turn market dislocation into successful investments.

Learn more at http://GraceadaPartners.com .

GRACEADA CONTACT

Graceada Partners

Dana Seefeldt

209-576-2240

[email protected]

MEDIA CONTACT

Bob Spoerl

Bear Icebox Communications

773-453-2444

[email protected]

SOURCE Graceada Partners
For the first time, two commercial links in the cislunar value chain come together to integrate their systems, winning the Space Florida-Israel Innovation Partnership Grant

TEL AVIV, Israel and ROCKLEDGE, Fla., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Two space tech companies, Helios and Eta Space, today announce they are joining forces to solve the problem of oxygen in space. If humanity is to have a sustainable presence beyond Earth, the reusable methane-fueled rocket systems need liquid oxygen at a ratio of 1:4, so the only cost-effective solution to refueling in orbit is to create and store oxygen on the Moon and on Mars.

Oxygen depot on the moon - illustration by Helios

Helios, which is backed by the Israel Space Agency (ISA) and which recently announced funding from several venture capital firms, has developed an electrochemical reactor capable of extracting oxygen from the lunar regolith, which is made of approximately 45% oxygen. Their proprietary technology and process has proven effective and is being used terrestrially for the extraction of other elements, such as iron.

Eta Space, located on the Space Coast of Florida, specializes in production, storage and transfer of cryogenic propellants. Its founder and CEO, Dr. William Notardonato, worked for 30 years at NASA and is a specialist in cryogenic technologies, specifically liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen.

"Eta Space would play the important role of liquifying and storing the oxygen produced by the Helios reactor in cryogenic tanks," explained Dr. Notardonato. "The two companies complement each other with their mission to reduce costs in space even further, a key step to make beyond earth presence sustainable."

Space Florida, the aerospace and spaceport development authority for the State of Florida, and the Israel Innovation Authority, an independent, publicly funded agency created to address the needs of the local and international innovation ecosystems, recently announced the ninth-round winners of industrial research and development funding tied to the Space Florida-Israel Innovation Partnership Program.

In October 2013, Florida and Israel established a $2 million recurring joint fund to support research, development, and commercialization of aerospace and technology projects that benefit both Israel and Florida. For this Call for Projects, five teams have been selected for this ninth round of awards.

As one of the winning teams, Eta Space and Helios will leverage each other's expertise in cryogenic and chemical engineering, to develop an integrated lunar oxygen production and liquefaction plant, a critical step toward a sustainable cislunar industry.

"In order to enable the establishment of a permanent lunar base, Helios' technology is not enough  a whole set of technologies are required to realize the lunar economic value chain," said Jonathan Geifman, Helios CEO and co-founder. "This new collaboration with Eta Space will for the first time connect two purely commercial links in the chain  the production and the storage of oxygen  thus making multiple and long-term missions to the moon closer to being economically viable."

About Eta Space

Founded in 2019 by former NASA and contractor personnel with over 130 years of combined experience in aerospace cryogenics, Eta Space is a technology development company that specializes in applying advanced cryogenic systems to solve critical problems in the new space and the hydrogen energy economy. Eta Space is currently developing efficient cryogenic storage and transfer systems on Earth, in orbit, and on the Moon.

About Helios

Helios is an Israeli company founded in 2018, supported by the Israel Space Agency at the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Ministry of Energy and the Innovation Authority. The company's vision is to enable sustainable human life on Earth and beyond. Among its core technologies are systems to produce oxygen on the lunar surface and iron on Earth with zero direct carbon emissions. Visit https://www.project-helios.space/

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1874310/Helios_Oxygen_depot.jpg

SOURCE Helios
Higginbotham Boosts Presence in Georgia with Alpharetta, GA, Broker

FORT WORTH, Texas, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Holman and Company, an independent broker of commercial and personal property and casualty insurance and employee benefits in Alpharetta, GA, has joined Higginbotham, an insurance, financial and HR services firm ranked as the 21st largest independent broker in the U.S. The deal gives Higginbotham a third office in Georgia and Holman and Company broader access to the insurer market and expanded account services to serve businesses in the greater Atlanta region.

Higginbotham is strategically growing to expand its footprint and increase its service capability by partnering with other independent agencies that have strong reputations in their local markets, a desire to keep growing by tapping into Higginbotham's single source solution and a strong cultural match. Holman and Company is led by Bill Holman with his brothers Alan Holman and Bob Holman, who partnered in 2010 when they purchased the agency from their father, Penn Holman.

Bill Holman said, "We decided to partner with Higginbotham for three primary reasons. The first is Higginbotham's commitment to remaining privately held with broad employee ownership. The second is its value-added services beyond the placement of insurance, such as in-house loss control and employee benefits support, that we can now offer our clients. The third is that while Higginbotham has the scale of a top U.S. broker, they understand that business needs to be done at the local level and not institutionalized."

Managing Partner of Higginbotham Atlanta Marty Jones said, "Higginbotham's service model is very attractive to agencies that are looking to grow without losing their personal connection with clients and autonomy. Though partnership, they enhance their value to clients by bringing a wealth of knowledge and sought after services to the table. For clients, they get world-class service from a local firm."

Higginbotham named Bill Holman a managing director, and he will continue overseeing Holman and Company's existing team with Alan Holman and Bob Holman.

About Holman and Company Insurance and Risk Advisors

Founded in 1983, Holman and Company is a full service insurance brokerage and risk management firm that provides solutions to help companies and individuals manage risk. It is one of the largest locally owned commercial and personal insurance and employee benefits brokers in the greater Atlanta area. Holman and Company primarily serves middle market companies and has specialization in the forest products, real estate, food and beverage, manufacturing, distribution and wholesale and construction sectors. Visit holmanandcompany.com for more information.

About Higginbotham

Employee owned and customer inspired, Higginbotham is a single source solution for insurance, financial and HR services. The firm was established in 1948 and ranks by revenue as the nation's 21st largest independent insurance firm. Serving thousands of businesses and individuals through locations coast to coast, Higginbotham's approach to finding insurance, employee benefit and risk management solutions is more individual and less institutional. By understanding customer priorities, eliminating inefficiencies and committing to transparency, Higginbotham is a place that leads with values so value leads. Visit higginbotham.com for more information.

SOURCE Higginbotham
Dynamic Industry Expert Hired To Be Head of HOP WTR Sales

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- HOP WTR  the non-alcoholic sparkling hop water crafted with crisp, bold hops and mood-boosting ingredients  welcomes a new hire for their Senior Vice President of Sales position, Lauren Davidson. Her vast experience and accomplishments in the sales industry will play a vital role in priming HOP WTR for continued growth across the US.

HOP WTR Hires Lauren Davidson as Senior Vice President of Sales

"I came over for the opportunity, leadership, and team; it's just really a good group of human beings," explains Davidson. "We've got super smart, analytical folks, to support our partners and help be category thought leaders as we grow. I think that's really where we'll differentiate ourselves. Not only do we have great products, but also all of the necessary components to be a winning brand  strong marketing, attractive packaging, the right price, ideal placement, and strong route-to-market partners."

Not your typical salesperson, Davidson was data driven from the start. With a background in new product consulting and forecasting, the Senior VP brings a wealth of unique experiences and an analytical approach. Davidson joins HOP WTR from Super Coffee, where she served as VP of National Accounts. She also has a track record of creating and delivering product strategies that enable fast and rapid growth in new and existing markets at companies such as Popchips, Nielsen and Wonderful Brands.

HOP WTR CEO and Co-Founder Jordan Bass adds, "I speak for myself and everyone else at the company when I say we're ecstatic that Lauren is joining the HOP WTR team. We were so impressed with her background and she's incredible to work with. We are confident Lauren is going to help take HOP WTR to the next level."

Launched in Los Angeles in August 2020, HOP WTR has seen 300% year-over-year growth in retail with its roster of non-alcoholic sparkling hop waters available in: Classic, Mango, Blood Orange, Lime and (recently introduced) Peach. In addition to featuring all of the best assortments of "No's" (no alcohol, no calories, no carbs, no sugar, no gluten, no GMOs), HOP WTR says "Yes" to a proprietary blend of stress-busting hops, adaptogens (ashwagandha) and nootropics (L-Theanine) that delivers healthy benefits while offering a taste experience that's light, crisp and satisfying.

HOP WTR is available nationwide at HOPWTR.com, goPuff, Amazon and Thrive Market. HOP WTR can also be found at Erewhon, BevMo!, Wegmans, Big Y and select Total Wine & More, Ralphs, Kroger, HEB, and HyVee locations. We continue to add new retailers weekly, so find us at Gelson's, Mother's Markets, Jungle Jim's, Bottle Kings, and many other exciting locations just added! For more information, please visit HOPWTR.com and follow us on Instagram @HOPWTR.

ABOUT HOP WTR

HOP WTR is a non-alcoholic sparkling hop water crafted with crisp, bold hops and mood-boosting ingredients. Our proprietary blend of stress-busting hops, adaptogens (ashwagandha) and nootropics (L-Theanine) makes our brew burst with healthy benefits while tasting crisp, light, and satisfying. With no calories, carbs, sugar or gluten, HOP WTR is The Healthy Way to Hops.

Media Contact:

Matt Kovacs

mkovacs@blazepr.com

310-305-5050

SOURCE HOP WTR
The Company's response to devastating storms demonstrates its commitment to energizing life for Ontarians while highlighting the need for continued investment to prepare for climate change.

TORONTO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Hydro One Limited (Hydro One or the Company) today announced its financial and operating results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022.

Second Quarter Highlights

Second quarter basic earnings per share (EPS) of $0.43 was 7.5% higher compared to EPS of $0.40 for the same period in 2021.

was 7.5% higher compared to EPS of for the same period in 2021. EPS for the quarter was higher year over year primarily due to approved rates for the transmission and distribution segments, and higher demand, partially offset by higher depreciation, amortization and asset removal costs and higher financing charges.

Hydro One restores power to approximately 760,000 customers following the May 21, 2022 devastating storm.

devastating storm. Hydro One released its annual sustainability report ( www.hydroone.com/sustainability ) that demonstrates continued progress in setting and meeting its sustainability goals.

) that demonstrates continued progress in setting and meeting its sustainability goals. The Company announced that members of the Canadian Union of Skilled Workers (CUSW) ratified the renewal of the collective agreement.

Hydro One won the Gold Best Practices Award in customer service from Chartwell Inc., a company that has been helping utilities improve customer experience and satisfaction as well as operational efficiency for 25 years.

the Gold Best Practices Award in customer service from Chartwell Inc., a company that has been helping utilities improve customer experience and satisfaction as well as operational efficiency for 25 years. Hydro One earns 12th Emergency Response Award from the Edison Electric Institute for restoring power to more than half of affected customers within the first 24 hours following severe storm during the Easter long weekend.

Hydro One was recognized again by Corporate Knights as a Best 50 Corporate Citizen in Canada .

. William (Bill) Sheffield appointed as Interim President and CEO following Mark Poweska's resignation to assume a leadership position at a utility closer to his family in Western Canada later this year. Mark remains with the Company as an advisor to support Bill with the transition.

appointed as Interim President and CEO following resignation to assume a leadership position at a utility closer to his family in later this year. Mark remains with the Company as an advisor to support Bill with the transition. The Company's capital investments and in-service additions for the quarter were $612 million and $547 million , respectively, compared to $553 million and $300 million in 2021.

and , respectively, compared to and in 2021. Quarterly dividend declared at $0.2796 per share, payable September 29, 2022 .

"I appreciate the patience demonstrated by our customers as our dedicated teams worked tirelessly to restore power during the recent major storms. Investing in our system to prepare for the effects of climate change and extreme weather is a key priority for Hydro One" said Bill Sheffield, Interim President and CEO of Hydro One. "Our sustainability report released today clearly outlines our goals and the progress we are making in standing up for people, the planet and the communities across Ontario."

Selected Consolidated Financial and Operating Highlights



Three months ended June 30 Six months ended June 30 (millions of Canadian dollars, except as otherwise noted) 2022 2021 2022 2021









Revenues 1,840 1,722 3,887 3,533 Purchased power 852 838 1,866 1,732 Revenues, net of purchased power1 988 884 2,021 1,801 Net income attributable to common shareholders 255 238 565 506









Basic EPS $0.43 $0.40 $0.94 $0.85 Diluted EPS $0.42 $0.40 $0.94 $0.84









Net cash from operating activities 621 412 1,064 929 Capital investments 612 553 1,061 1,080 Assets placed in-service 547 300 776 457









Transmission: Average monthly Ontario 60-minute peak demand (MW) 20,167 19,448 20,422 19,693 Distribution: Electricity distributed to Hydro One customers (GWh) 6,754 6,750 15,649 14,906







1 "Revenues, net of purchased power" is a non-GAAP financial measure. Non-GAAP financial measures do not have a standardized meaning under United States (US) generally accepted accounting principles (US GAAP) used to prepare the Company's financial statements and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. See the section "Non-GAAP Financial Measures".

Key Financial Highlights

2022 Second Quarter Highlights

The Company reported net income attributable to common shareholders of $255 million during the quarter, compared to $238 million in the same period of 2021. This resulted in EPS of $0.43, compared to EPS of $0.40 in the prior year.

Revenues, net of purchased power1 for the second quarter of $988 million were $104 million higher than revenues, net of purchased power1 for the second quarter of 2021. The increase is mainly due to the impacts of the Ontario Energy Board (OEB) decision in April 2021 regarding the deferred tax asset (DTA) amounts previously allocated to ratepayers (DTA Implementation Decision), as well as revenues resulting from OEB-approved 2022 rates and higher peak demand. Pursuant to the DTA Implementation Decision, Hydro One is currently recovering deferred tax amounts allocated to rate payers and included in customer rates for the 2017 to 2021 period over a two-year period which began on July 1, 2021. Hydro One also adjusted the transmission revenue requirement and base distribution rates effective January 1, 2022 to remove any further allocation of deferred tax amounts. The impacts of the DTA Implementation Decision are offset by a higher tax expense, and therefore net income neutral in the period.

Operation, maintenance and administration costs in the second quarter of 2022 were lower than last year as lower corporate support costs and lower work program expenditures were partially offset by a higher allowance for doubtful accounts in the period.

Depreciation, amortization and asset removal costs for the second quarter were higher than last year primarily due to growth in capital assets as the Company continues to place new assets in-service, consistent with its ongoing capital investment program, as well as higher asset removal costs associated with the storm in May of this year.



________________________________________

1 Revenues, net of purchased power, is a non-GAAP financial measure. Non-GAAP financial measures do not have a standardized meaning under US GAAP used to prepare the Company's financial statements and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. See the section "Non-GAAP Financial Measures".

Financing charges for the second quarter were higher than last year mainly due to the recognition of carrying charges pursuant to the DTA Implementation Decision in the second quarter of 2021.

Income tax expense for the second quarter of 2022 was higher than the prior year primarily due to income tax expense pursuant to the DTA Implementation Decision and higher pre-tax earnings, partially offset by higher deductible timing differences compared to the second quarter of the prior year.

Hydro One continues to invest in the reliability and performance of Ontario's electricity transmission and distribution systems by addressing aging power system infrastructure, facilitating connectivity to new load customers and generation sources, and improving service to customers. The Company made capital investments of $612 million during the second quarter of 2022 and placed $547 million of new assets in-service.

Selected Operating Highlights

Hydro One restored power to approximately 760,000 customers affected by the storm on May 21, 2022. The storm caused significant devastation that included approximately 2,500 broken poles and approximately 500 damaged transformers.

Hydro One won the Gold Best Practices Award in customer service from Chartwell Inc., for its continuous improvement program that was put in place in early 2021. The program delivered the following select benefits for customers, business and staff: a) approximately 25% increase in customer satisfaction; b) approximately 12% improvement in call handle time; both recovering from pandemic low points. The program also had approximately 50% of staff upskilled to improve flexibility, job enrichment and morale.

Hydro One released its sustainability report which provides a balanced account of its environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance against the sustainability targets released last year. Hydro One is committed to producing an annual sustainability update to continuously increase the transparency and accountability of our ESG disclosures. The sustainability report is available at www.hydroone.com/sustainability.

Members of the CUSW voted in favour of renewing their collective agreement. This new collective agreement covers approximately 1,000 employees in critical construction roles.

Hydro One was recognized on the annual list of Best 50 Corporate Citizens by Corporate Knights, an organization dedicated to setting high standards in sustainability across Canada. This is the 11th time Hydro One has appeared on the Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada list.

Common Share Dividends

Following the conclusion of the second quarter, on August 8, 2022, the Company declared a quarterly cash dividend to common shareholders of $0.2796 per share to be paid on September 29, 2022 to shareholders of record on September 14, 2022.

Supplemental Segment Information





Three months ended June 30

Six months ended June 30 (millions of Canadian dollars)

2022 2021

2022 2021













Revenues











Transmission

516 448

1,035 896 Distribution

1,314 1,263

2,831 2,617 Other

10 11

21 20 Total revenues

1,840 1,722

3,887 3,533













Revenues, net of purchased power1











Transmission

516 448

1,035 896 Distribution

462 425

965 885 Other

10 11

21 20 Total revenues, net of purchased power1

988 884

2,021 1,801













Operation, maintenance and administration costs











Transmission

97 101

196 199 Distribution

173 177

344 344 Other

16 11

34 28 Total operation, maintenance and administration costs 286 289

574 571













Income before financing charges and taxes









Transmission

289 229

584 458 Distribution

163 143

385 336 Other

(8) (2)

(17) (12) Total income before financing charges and taxes 444 370

952 782













Capital investments











Transmission

311 365

588 713 Distribution

294 184

461 360 Other

7 4

12 7 Total capital investments

612 553

1,061 1,080













Assets placed in-service











Transmission

295 147

415 195 Distribution

251 150

356 256 Other

1 3

5 6 Total assets placed in-service

547 300

776 457







1 Revenues, net of purchased power, is a non-GAAP financial measure. Non-GAAP financial measures do not have a standardized meaning under US GAAP used to prepare the Company's financial statements and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. See the section "Non-GAAP Financial Measures".

This press release should be read in conjunction with the Company's second quarter 2022 unaudited consolidated financial statements and MD&A. These financial statements and MD&A together with additional information about Hydro One, including the audited consolidated financial statements and MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2021 can be accessed at www.HydroOne.com/Investors and www.sedar.com.

Quarterly Investment Community Teleconference

The Company's second quarter 2022 results teleconference with the investment community will be held on August 9, 2022 at 8 a.m. ET, a webcast of which will be available at www.HydroOne.com/Investors . Members of the financial community wishing to ask questions during the call should go to this link ( https://register.vevent.com/register/BIc855fafff2374ca385eabb1bbbd0d5ca ) prior to the scheduled start time to access Hydro One's second quarter 2022 results call. Media and other interested parties are welcome to participate on a listen-only basis. A webcast of the teleconference will be available at the same link following the call. Additionally, investors should note that from time to time Hydro One management presents at brokerage sponsored investor conferences. Most often, but not always, these conferences are webcast by the hosting brokerage firm, and when they are webcast, links are made available on Hydro One's website at www.HydroOne.com/Investors and are posted generally at least two days before the conference.

Hydro One Limited (TSX: H)

Hydro One Limited, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, is Ontario's largest electricity transmission and distribution provider with approximately 1.5 million valued customers, approximately $30.4 billion in assets as at December 31, 2021, and annual revenues in 2021 of approximately $7.2 billion.

Our team of approximately 9,300 skilled and dedicated employees proudly build and maintain a safe and reliable electricity system which is essential to supporting strong and successful communities. In 2021, Hydro One invested approximately $2.1 billion in its transmission and distribution networks, and supported the economy through buying approximately $1.7 billion of goods and services.

We are committed to the communities where we live and work through community investment, sustainability and diversity initiatives. We are designated as a Sustainable Electricity Company by the Canadian Electricity Association.

Hydro One Limited's common shares are listed on the TSX and certain of Hydro One Inc.'s medium term notes are listed on the NYSE. Additional information can be accessed at www.hydroone.com , www.sedar.com or www.sec.gov .

For More Information

For more information about everything Hydro One, please visit www.hydroone.com where you can find additional information including links to securities filings, historical financial reports, and information about the Company's governance practices, corporate social responsibility, customer solutions, and further information about its business.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Hydro One uses a number of financial measures to assess its performance. The Company presents "revenues, net of purchased power" to reflect revenues net of the cost of purchased power, which is a non-GAAP financial measure. Non-GAAP financial measures do not have a standardized meaning under GAAP used to prepare the Company's financial statements and might not be comparable to similar measures presented by other entities. They should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for analysis of the Company's financial information reported under US GAAP.

Revenues, Net of Purchased Power

Revenues, net of purchased power is defined as revenues less the cost of purchased power. Revenues, net of purchased power is used internally by management to assess the impacts of revenue on net income and is considered useful because it excludes the cost of power that is fully recovered through revenues and therefore net income neutral.

The following table provides a reconciliation of GAAP (reported) Revenues to non-GAAP (adjusted) Revenues, Net of Purchased Power on a consolidated basis.







Three months ended June 30 Six months ended June 30 (millions of dollars)



2022 2021 2022 2021 Revenues



1,840 1,722 3,887 3,533 Less: Purchased power



852 838 1,866 1,732 Revenues, net of purchased power



988 884 2,021 1,801

Forward-Looking Statements and Information

This press release may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such information includes, but is not limited to, statements related to: the Company growing and evolving to stand up for people, the planet and communities across Ontario; sustainability goals; expectations related to an annual sustainability update; the Company's plans to improve reliability, including facilitating connectivity for new load customers and generation sources; the Company's ongoing and planned projects and expected capital investments, including anticipated outcomes and impacts; and payment of dividends. Words such as "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "attempt," "may," "plan," "will", "can", "believe," "seek," "estimate," and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking information. These statements are not guarantees of future performance or actions and involve assumptions and risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed, implied or forecasted in such forward-looking information. Some of the factors that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from the results expressed, implied or forecasted by such forward-looking information, including some of the assumptions used in making such statements, are discussed more fully in Hydro One's filings with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Hydro One does not intend, and it disclaims any obligation, to update any forward-looking information, except as required by law.

SOURCE Hydro One Limited
The 150th Anniversary of the Birth of our Heritage Artist Gustavo Bacarisas

Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, will be marking the 150th Anniversary of the birth of Gustavo Bacarisas with several events and initiatives.

Born on the 23rd September 1872, Gustavo Bacarisas was the first ever recipient of the Freedom of the City of Gibraltar in 1962 and one of Gibraltars most prolific international artists, whose successful career spanned over 70 years, across three different continents.

During the week of his birth date, GCS will be organising an Open Day at the Mario Finlayson National Gallery on Tuesday 20th September 2022. The open day will see the Minister for Culture, The Hon. Professor John Cortes, opening newly refurbished exhibition rooms, with new works from the artist and further art from the Heritage artists also on show. The Gallery refurbishment sees many additions and improvements including QR codes for audio and written information provided online to provide a more inclusive experience.

A special talk on Bacarisas Life and Legacy will be delivered by GCS Gino Sanguinetti. Gino will be exploring the artists life, challenges, and inspirations against the backdrop of WWII and the Spanish Civil War. The talk will be held on Tuesday 20th September 2022 at 6.30pm at the City Hall. Tickets for the talk are free to the public and are available at Buytickets.gi.

To promote the artist and mark the occasion, GCS are also working on a set of stamps that are being designed by the Gibraltar Philatelic Bureau, a gift shop and a childrens book, telling the story of Gustavo Bacarisas and highlighting some of the key moments in the artists life. The latter, proposed and executed by artist Shane Dalmedo.

For more details, please contact the Development department on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or on 20049161.
Receives CE Mark for Covid-19 testing

ABERCYNON, Wales, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Imspex Diagnostics Ltd today announced that it has received CE mark for its BreathSpec instrument for the detection of COVID-19 using non-invasive breath testing and analysis having met the requirements of the European In-Vitro Diagnostics Directive (98/79/EC).

BreathSpec's intended use is for the diagnosis of respiratory tract infections with specific utility for SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) in a Point of Care setting by clinicians and non-technical users. In collaboration with University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, University of Warwick, National Hospital of Kandy, Sri Lanka and British Columbia Cancer Foundation, Canada, breath samples were collected, analyzed and shown to correlate to Polymerase Chain Reaction testing, the current standard of testing for Covid-19.

Breathspec is Imspex's proprietary breath analyzer using a unique combination of gas chromatography (GC) and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) technologies to deliver fast and accurate results. The key advantage of non-invasive sample collection from patients is particularly beneficial to children and challenged patients with significant time and cost savings versus PCR testing.

"This is a global first for breath-based Covid-19 testing and a major step towards our mission to bring breath-based testing into the mainstream" said John McKinley, CEO of Imspex Diagnostics. "BreathSpec confirms that the new age of non-invasive testing for Covid-19 and other diseases is now within reach, offering alternative testing pathways for healthcare providers and economies of cost and supply chain to healthcare administrators working across diverse diseases."

Imspex received technical support from the University of South Wales, grant and funding from The Welsh Government, Development Bank of Wales, Angel CoFund, Innovate UK and angel investors.

About Imspex Group

Imspex is a leader in Breathomics, the non-invasive way to address major healthcare challenges. Years of technology development have delivered a range of instruments across multi-industry sectors evidencing Imspex's leadership status. Breath collection and analysis is carried out using Imspex's lead instrument, BreathSpec. Our mission is to harness the potential of breath-based testing and diagnosis and to provide cutting-edge analytics solutions where early warning signals are needed. Our versatile combination of gas chromatography (GC) and ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) has a proven track record in medical detection and diagnosis scenarios and in diverse industrial locations, including biogas contamination detection, food and beverage processing and wastewater pathogen detection.

Please visit www.Imspex.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1872862/Imspex_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Imspex Diagnostics
Digital wallet technology will be used to oversee payments for education resources, services and tuition

MIAMI and INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Indiana has selected ClassWallet to help it track, report and facilitate distribution of $87 million in federal and state funds to non-public school students and their families, as well as families of special education students, impacted by COVID-19 learning disruptions.

The first program, called The Indiana Education Scholarship Account (ESA) program, is designed to support students with disabilities by helping them access the educational environment that best meets their learning needs. It is funded by the state and provides up to $9 million for tuition and fees and for pre-approved educational expenses including therapies, services, tutors and other educational expenses from a list of approved study areas.

The second program, Indiana's Emergency Assistance for Nonpublic Schools (EANS II) program, is funded with $78 million in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan and may be used by qualified non-public schools for such services and assistance as sanitization, personal protective equipment, COVID testing, educational technology and connectivity.

ClassWallet previously supported Indiana with its EANS I program. The fintech company has extensive experience in helping states to track, report and facilitate the distribution of funds for EANS, EANS II, K-12 student scholarships and family microgrants, and other federal and state programs. Its digital wallet solution is used in 27 states and 19 state agencies across 6,200 schools serving 4.1 million students and growing.

"ClassWallet will be a fantastic resource for the State of Indiana and its students," said Indiana Treasurer of State Kelly Mitchell, who oversees the Indiana ESA program. "Our statutory duty is to provide Hoosier students and their families flexibility in tailoring their educations while protecting the funds from being misused. ClassWallet has helped us put guardrails in place so that not a single dollar will go out without my team approving the expense."

The ClassWallet spending management platform provides digital wallets to grant and scholarship program recipients. This enables them to pay for tuition, goods and services. The platform allows parents to upload invoices and receipts, make payments, manage purchasing and receive automated reimbursements with broad transparency  all while protecting data and privacy. Each state determines the rules and restrictions for its program which are then implemented by ClassWallet.

"ClassWallet is a proven performer for states like Indiana to distribute monies from a range of federal and state funding sources," said Jamie Rosenberg, CEO, ClassWallet. "Indiana's choice of our platform will help many families with pre-K-12 and special needs students to get the assistance they need without unnecessary paperwork or disbursement delays."

For more information about ClassWallet, send an email to [email protected] or call 877-969-5536.

About ClassWallet

Founded in 2014, ClassWallet ( www.classwallet.com ) is the leading digital wallet and automated accounts payable platform for federal, state and district education. Saving valuable time and overhead costs to track, pay and report on decentralized purchases, ClassWallet is used in 27 states and by 19 state agencies, across 6,200 schools serving 4.1 million students. ClassWallet's integrated marketplace of leading suppliers and learning curricula includes top retailers like Amazon, Office Depot, Staples, Scholastic, School Specialty, Lakeshore Learning and more. Headquartered in Miami, ClassWallet ranked #33 on Inc. Magazine's 2022 list of fastest-growing private companies in the Southeast.

CONTACTS:

Doug Wright / Ashley Blas / Liz Savery

Feintuch Communications

646-753-5711 / 646-753-5713 / 917-805-4581

[email protected]

Media room

SOURCE ClassWallet
US$200,000 grants available to advance Internet access and connectivity globally

RESTON, Va., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Internet Society Foundation has launched a second round of grants to advance Internet access and connectivity around the world. Now in its second year, the The Building Opportunities/Leveraging Technologies (BOLT) grant program supports teams of creatives, technologists, and researchers to develop solutions to Internet connectivity, particularly among communities where current technologies are unavailable or inaccessible. US$200,000 grants will be awarded to organizations for projects lasting up to 12 months.

"The Internet Society Foundation is committed to using our funding to address the challenges that prevent people from accessing the Internet, in line with our vision that the Internet is for everyone. With almost half of the world population still offline, these grants aim to bolster the development of imaginative and sustainable solutions that will promote greater Internet access and connectivity for communities around the world", noted Sarah Armstrong, Executive Director of the Internet Society Foundation.

The BOLT program builds on the Internet Society Foundation's commitment to support innovative solutions to Internet connectivity. Organizations currently implementing projects around the world through the program include: Digital Empowerment Foundation, Digital Harbor Foundation Inc., Fundacion Sole Colombia and the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU).

BOLT is open for applications between 8 August and 2 September and the grantees will be announced in October. Applying teams must ensure that their lead organization is a legally registered 501(c)(3) or equivalent.

See grant details and application process.

About The Internet Society Foundation:

The Internet Society Foundation was established in 2019 to support the positive difference the Internet can make to people everywhere. Guided by our vision of an Internet for Everyone, the Foundation champions ideas and enables communities to unlock the Internet's potential to tackle the world's evolving challenges. Focusing in five program areas, the Foundation awards grants to Internet Society Chapters as well as non-profit organizations and individuals dedicated to providing meaningful access to an open, globally connected, secure and trustworthy Internet for everyone.

SOURCE Internet Society Foundation
SAO PAULO, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Itau Unibanco Holding S.A. ("Company" or "Itau Unibanco"), in compliance with Article 157, Paragraph 4 of Law 6,404/76 and Resolution no. 44/21 of the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission, informs its stockholders and the market in general that as of this date it has revised its projections for the year 2022 in accordance with the provision in item 11 ("Projections") of the Reference Form.



Consolidated Brazil



previous reviewed previous reviewed

total credit portfolio growing between

9.0% to 12.0% growing between

15.5% to 17.5% growing between

11.5% to 14.5% growing between

19.0% to 21.0%

financial margin with clients growing between

20.5% to 23.5% growing between

25.0% to 27.0% growing between

22.0% to 25.0% growing between

26.5% to 28.5%

financial margin with the market range from

R$ 1.0 bi to R$ 3.0 bn maintained range from

R$ 0.3 bi to R$ 2.3 bn maintained the hedge of the capital ratio

with an impact of

approximately R$2 billion cost of credit range from

R$ 25.0 bi to R$ 29.0 bn range from

R$ 28.0 bi to R$ 31.0 bn range from

R$ 23.0 bi to R$ 27.0 bn range from

R$ 26.0 bi to R$ 29.0 bn

commissions and fees and results

from insurance operations4 growing between

3.5% to 6.5% growing between

7.0% to 9.0% growing between

4.0% to 7.0% growing between

7.5% to 9.5% considers the adjusted 2021

result excluding participation

in XP Inc non-interest expenses range from

3.0% to 7.0% maintained range from

3.0% to 7.0% maintained efficiency ratio in Brazil below 40%

in 4Q22. Core cost nominally stable

in 2022 effective tax rate rate between

30.0% to 33.0% maintained rate between

31.0% to 34.0% maintained

recurring managerial ROE - - - - sustainable ROE around 20% capital - - - - tier I capital above risk appetite

(1) Includes units abroad ex-Latin America; (2) Includes financial guarantees provided and corporate securities; (3) Composed of result from loan losses, impairment and discounts granted; (4) commissions and fees (+) income from insurance, pension plan and premium bonds operations (-) expenses for claims (-) insurance, pension plan and premium bonds selling expenses.

It's worth mentioning that the company considers, for management purposes, a cost of capital of around 14.5% per year.

Information on outlooks for the business, projections and operational and financial goals are solely forecasts, based on management's current outlook in relation to the future of Itau Unibanco. These expectations are highly dependent on market conditions, general economic performance of the country, of the sector and the international markets. Therefore, our effective results and performance may differ from those forecasted in this prospective information.

Sao Paulo, August 8, 2022

Renato Lulia Jacob

Group Head of Investor Relations and Marketing Intelligence

Contact:

Itau Unibanco  Comunicacao Corporativa

Telefone: (11) 5019-8880 / 8881

E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE Itau Unibanco Holding S.A.
Unifies two industry-leading growth strategies into one actively managed ETF

NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- J.P. Morgan Asset Management (JPMAM) today announced the launch of JPMorgan Active Growth ETF (JGRO), an actively managed style pure growth ETF that seeks to outperform the Russell 1000 Growth Index. The strategy follows a bottom-up approach and aims to identify companies with growth potential that is underappreciated by the market.

Priced at an expense ratio of 0.44%, JGRO leverages the breadth and depth of the entire J.P. Morgan Growth Platform and leverages two flagship strategies on the platform, JPMorgan Large Cap Growth, a style pure approach which utilizes price momentum, and JPMorgan Growth Advantage, which is anchored in large cap but has flexibility to invest down cap. Blending these two fundamental approaches with unique characteristics results in one ETF solution that seeks opportunities across the growth landscape.

"As investors look to navigate today's unique market environment, JGRO provides access to opportunities across J.P. Morgan's Growth Platform, combined with the benefits of the active ETF structure," said Bryon Lake, Global Head of ETF Solutions, J.P. Morgan Asset Management. "We are excited to add JGRO to our range of active capabilities, uniting two of the industry's most experienced growth management teams to deliver a solution aimed at providing long-term capital appreciation while delivering risk-adjusted returns."

The fund is managed by Giri Devulapally, Timothy Parton and Felise Agranoff, all of whom are Managing Directors and Portfolio Managers that bring decades of investment experience and have successfully managed through various market cycles. They are supported by a well-resourced team of dedicated growth research analysts which average 16 years of experience. The entire growth team collectively oversees more than $93b in assets.

JGRO compliments the firm's existing style pure offerings, including JPMorgan Active Value ETF (JAVA), an active equity ETF managed by Clare Hart, Scott Blasdell, David Silberman and Andrew Brandon.

The addition of JGRO brings J.P. Morgan Asset Management's full U.S. suite of ETFs to 45 products with more than $81 billion in assets under management. J.P. Morgan Asset Management ranks as a top ten ETF issuer in the U.S. with respect to AUM 1 and number one in net active flows across active ETFs in the U.S. for 20212. JPMorgan's Active ETFs were also recently named "ETF Suite of the Year" by With Intelligence3 as part of their annual Mutual Fund Industry and ETF Awards.

Portfolio Manager Biographies:

Giri Devulapally, managing director, is a portfolio manager within the U.S. Equity Group. An employee since 2003, Giri is the lead portfolio manager for the J.P. Morgan Large Cap Growth Strategy. Prior to joining the firm, Giri worked for T. Rowe Price for six years, where he was an analyst specializing in technology and telecommunications. Giri received a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois and an M.B.A. with a concentration in Finance from the University of Chicago. He is a member of the CFA Institute and a CFA charterholder.

Timothy Parton, managing director, is a portfolio manager within the U.S. Equity Group. An employee since 1986, Tim has managed a variety of Small and Mid-Cap portfolios over his tenure. Tim has been managing the J.P. Morgan Mid Cap Growth Strategy since November 2001 and the J.P. Morgan Growth Advantage Strategy since its inception in September 2005. In addition, Tim is a manager on the J.P. Morgan Equity Focus and Mid Cap Equity Strategies. Tim holds a B.Sc. in Economics and Accounting from the University of Bristol in England. He is a member of both the New York Society of Security Analysts and The CFA Institute, and a is CFA charterholder.

Felise Agranoff, managing director, is a portfolio manager within the U.S. Equity Group. An employee since 2004, Felise is a portfolio manager for the J.P. Morgan Growth Advantage, Mid Cap Growth and Mid Cap Equity Strategies. As a research analyst for the growth team Felise covered industrials, financials and business services. Felise obtained a B.S. in Finance and Accounting from the McIntire School of Commerce at the University of Virginia. She is a member of the CFA Institute and is a CFA charterholder. Felise is an industry-recognized portfolio manager, having been named to Citywire's "Top Female Portfolio Managers in the U.S" in 20214, and is a member of Citywire's Amplify "Equities Elite", a list of 421 top fund managers in the asset management industry 5.

About J.P. Morgan Asset Management

J.P. Morgan Asset Management, with assets under management of USD 2.5 trillion (as of June 30, 2022), is a global leader in investment management. J.P. Morgan Asset Management's clients include institutions, retail investors and high net worth individuals in every major market throughout the world. J.P. Morgan Asset Management offers global investment management in equities, fixed income, real estate, hedge funds, private equity and liquidity. For more information: www.jpmorganassetmanagement.com.

J.P. Morgan Asset Management is the marketing name for the asset management businesses of JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates worldwide.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) is a leading financial services firm based in the United States of America ("U.S."), with operations worldwide. JPMorgan Chase had $3.8 trillion in assets and $286.1 billion in stockholders' equity as of June 30, 2022. The Firm is a leader in investment banking, financial services for consumers and small businesses, commercial banking, financial transaction processing and asset management. Under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands, the Firm serves millions of customers in the U.S., and many of the world's most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients globally. Information about JPMorgan Chase & Co. is available at www.jpmorganchase.com.

J.P. Morgan ETFs are distributed by JPMorgan Distribution Services, Inc., which is an affiliate of JPMorgan Chase & Co. Affiliates of JPMorgan Chase & Co. receive fees for providing various services to the funds. JPMorgan Distribution Services, Inc. is a member of FINRA. More information is available at https://am.jpmorgan.com/us/en/asset-management/gim/adv/products/etfs.

Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives and risks as well as charges and expenses of an ETF before investing. The summary and full prospectuses contain this and other information about the ETF and should be read carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus: Call 1-844-4JPM-ETF.

NOT FDIC INSURED | NO BANK GUARANTEE | MAY LOSE VALUE

Related Links: http://www.jpmorganchase.com

1 Data according to ETFdb.com as of 8/8/2022.

2 Data according to Bloomberg as of 8/8/2022.

3 The 2022 With Intelligence Mutual Fund Industry and ETF Awards were judged on 2021 performance and flows.

4 According to Citywire's list of "20 top female portfolio managers in the US" (June 2021)

5 CItywire Amplify was launched in 2022, naming Felice Agranoff to the list of 421 names.

SOURCE J.P. Morgan Asset Management
SINGAPORE, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Web3 community has gathered in Seoul for the Korea Blockchain Week (KBW), happening from 7-14 August 2022. The event, which has been fully sold out, brought together top players in the Web3 community to discuss the current and future trends and technologies in blockchain. Dr Sangmin Seo, Director at Klaytn Foundation, is one of the speakers featured at KBW. Speaking on the mainstage on 8 August, Dr Sangmin Seo touched on the topic of "The Technology Layer for Tomorrow's Metaverse". Through his presentation, Dr Seo shared insights on the challenges in building the technology layer, and how Klaytn is working towards the metaverse blockchain for all.

Klaytn, Building the Technology Layer for Tomorrow's Metaverse.

So what exactly is the metaverse? From augmentation to simulation, from external (environment) to intimate (personal), metaverses can involve an individual's virtual identity, digital realities, interwoven with the real world. Some imagine the metaverse to be an aggregation of our digital lives, while others see it as diverse worlds serving different purposes.

Where metaverse intersects with blockchain technology, it will allow individuals to own assets in the metaverse, including their own data and digital identity. Blockchain will enable a robust virtual economy and act as the trust layer to facilitate exchanges and connect different worlds.

This is where Klaytn, a public blockchain focused on the metaverse, gamefi, and the creator economy, comes in. The dominant blockchain platform in South Korea supported by internet giant, Kakao Corp, Klaytn is undergoing global expansion led by Klaytn Foundation, a non-profit organization established to accelerate global adoption and ecosystem maturity on Klaytn.

In order for blockchain to support mass adoption in metaverse use cases, it needs to optimize transactions, build necessary infrastructures, and make the technology more accessible to all. With those goals in mind, Klaytn Foundation had announced the Klaytn 2.0 roadmap at the beginning of 2022, to turn metaverse blockchain into reality.

During the presentation, Dr Seo introduced key requirements for metaverse blockchain, progress of Klaytn 2.0 and the blockchain's future roadmap.

1. Low transaction fee, high-performance and stable blockchain

"Klaytn will throw out the perception that blockchain is slow. We will positively impact the user experience on blockchain-based metaverse and games." - Dr Sangmin Seo, Director at Klaytn Foundation.

One of the key challenges facing blockchain technology is the speed and cost of processing transactions, as each transaction is required to be validated across a large number of nodes to be secure. Greater adoption and complex processes, which are likely to be commonplace in a thriving metaverse ecosystem, will create a heavy load jamming up the traffic and driving up gas fees.

With a low latency, high throughput (TPS) and 1-second deterministic finality, Klaytn stands above other layer 1 blockchains in terms of speed and agility, to bring immutability and instant finality to transactions. Beyond speed, Klaytn is also able to keep gas fees low, to a fraction of Ethereum gas fees.

2. Supporting builders to create their own blockchain-based platform

Klaytn has turned much of its attention to the developers, to make it easy for them to develop on the Klaytn chain. Ethereum-equivalence has allowed tools developed on the Ethereum chain to be able to be used on Klaytn, and vice versa. Working with technology providers such as Tatum , which provides a unified framework to build fast on Klaytn, support developers by streamlining the entire web3 development process.

Other than developer tools, Klaytn is also working on building interoperability and accessibility to support ecosystem growth. During his presentation, Dr Seo revealed that Klaytn will soon be integrated on the Wormhole Network , which will allow cross-chain connectivity with other high-value chains integrated with Wormhole, as well as the 1inch Network , a Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Decentralized Exchange (DEX) aggregator that allows users to optimize trades across hundreds of DEXes on multiple blockchains.

To make the metaverse more accessible to all, the Foundation is working towards a Metaverse-as-a-Service model which will allow anyone who wishes to participate in the metaverse to easily plug-in without a steep learning curve. Hence, they are also onboarding solution providers such as Matrixport , one of the world's largest digital assets financial services ecosystem, to bring onboard Cactus CustodyTM , first institutional-grade custodian to provide custody and escrow services through Warm & Cold Non-Fungible Token (NFT) storage solutions for Klaytn-based NFTs.

To solidify Klaytn's position as the metaverse blockchain, Dr Seo revealed that Klaytn Foundation will look further into improving usability and technology, such as launching the Metaverse Open-Source Package, applying a new governance and reward system, and achieving 10,000 TPS by the end of this year.

3. Gaming as a strategic focus into the metaverse

Gaming industry has often been one of the early adopters and forerunners in new technologies, and blockchain is no different. Play-to-Earn games had earned an early dominance and drew large crowds into the blockchain industry. When talking about the metaverse, one inevitably thinks about gaming.

Hence, Klaytn aims to be the platform to facilitate the flow of assets between games, and bridge them to the public world, by supporting development of the gaming ecosystem on Klaytn.

Dr Seo said, "As Klaytn already has a technological edge for popularizing blockchain, we will try to solidify our position as a global Layer-1 platform based on high performance. We are currently focusing on blockchain games to build an environment that can incorporate blockchain into the metaverse."

About Klaytn

Klaytn is a public blockchain focused on the metaverse, gamefi, and the creator economy. Officially launched in June 2019, it is the dominant blockchain platform in South Korea and is now undergoing global business expansion from its international base in Singapore, led by the Klaytn Foundation.

Since unveiling its metaverse roadmap in early 2022, the Ethereum-equivalent L1 chain has seen many well-known companies come onboard its metaverseincluding game developer and publishing powerhouses such as Netmarble and Neowiz. It recently ramped up efforts to lay the foundation for the metaverse and to expand use cases.

About Klaytn Foundation

Klaytn Foundation is a non-profit organization that was established to accelerate global adoption and ecosystem maturity on Klaytn. The foundation manages the US$500m Klaytn Growth Fund and operates alongside Krust, a subsidiary of internet giant Kakao Corp that invests in projects built on Klaytn.

Find out more at https://klaytn.foundation/

For media enquiries, please contact:

Kimberley Kok

Corporate Communications, Klaytn Foundation

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Klaytn Foundation
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Brotherhood Sister Sol, a prominent youth development organization based in upper Manhattan, has unveiled a dramatic new headquarters featuring channel glass by Bendheim. The building's striking facade expresses its mission to serve as a beacon for the community.

The Brotherhood Sister Sol (also known as BroSis) has been serving the personal and academic needs of Black and Latinx youth from economically distressed communities since 1995. When the organization outgrew its longtime base of operations in a century-old Harlem brownstone, BroSis chose the firm of Urban Architectural Initiatives, a participant in New York State's MWBE (Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprise program), to design a new headquarters at the same location.

And no ordinary building would do. As noted by BroSis Executive Director and Co-Founder Khary Lazarre-White, "From the very beginning of working with our architects, we challenged them to design a building that was about the enlightenment of children. Architecture speaks volumes about what happens within an institution."

The new BroSis center creates a sense of life and motion through its remarkable flaring design. Each elevation appears to fan outward, cantilevering over the elevations below. The selection of Bendheim's channel glass helped make this striking result a reality.

Channel glass is a U-shaped, translucent, machine-rolled architectural glass. Its unique geometry allows it to withstand imposed forces in ways conventional flat glass cannot. Channel glass can create sweeping, virtually seamless glass walls uninterrupted by metal frames, including serpentine curves.

In the case of the BroSis building, the design incorporated approximately 875 square feet of Bendheim's 504 Rough Cast channel glass with low-e coating for thermal performance enhancement. The frame is Bendheim's SF60 System for exterior double glazed facade applications in a custom Mineral Brown Metallic finish. The use of these products permitted the architects to design obtuse angled corners of continuous glass. The lightweight channel glass (weighing only 12 pounds per square foot) was also advantageous for the building's iconic overhang design.

The Bendheim channel glass also allows natural light to pervade the interior without glare. In the building's aptly named Light Room, floor-to-ceiling walls of the channel glass help create a calm and uplifting atmosphere.

Bendheim co-owner Donald Jayson noted, "We are excited to contribute to that rarity for New York City, a building that will be entirely devoted to community educational use. We hope the beauty of the glass facade will draw attention to the life-changing work taking place within".

Other members of the BroSis project team included LMW Engineering Group, EMTG Engineers, Krypton Engineering, Liz Farrell Landscape Architecture, Raymond/Raymond Associates, Noel Building Consultants, MaGrann Associates and Gilbane, Inc.

Photos are available here: https://app.box.com/s/7m2cpoixdvd1mc67m84yocn5xe4dtiaj

About Bendheim:

Bendheim is one of the world's foremost resources for specialty architectural glass. Founded in New York City in 1927, the fourth-generation, family-owned company offers a virtually unlimited range of customizable glass solutions for interior and exterior building applications. Bendheim develops, fabricates, and distributes its products worldwide. The company maintains production facilities in New Jersey and a design lab in New York City. For additional information, please visit Bendheim.com.

SOURCE Bendheim
SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- From its headquarters in Shenzhen, China, on August 4, 2022, Absen launched its latest breakthrough product series, Micro LED KLCOB, in a livestream event viewed by over 300 stakeholders across the world. The event, hosted by Absen's European Brand and Marketing Director, Jessica Golding, gave Ruben Rengel, Absen's Vice President for Global Business Development, the platform to deliver his insights into the future of LED, before Darren Banks, Absen's Industry Development Director of Corporate, guided viewers through the breakthrough details of Absen's latest product series: the KLCOB.

KLCOB

The New Era of Micro LED

Jessica Golding explained that advancements in LED technology over recent years and the acceleration in 5G + 8K technology, have ushered in the Era of Micro LED, once considered the future of displays. Actively developing IMD and COB technologies since 2016, Absen's depth of knowledge honed through two generations of Micro LED products launched to global success by 2021, paves the way for the groundbreaking KLCOB series.

New trends in display

Presenting insights into the future trend of Micro LED display products, Ruben Rengel predicted accelerated replacement of traditional technology, as well as a 34.2% compound growth rate in market size over the next four years. Absen anticipates an expansion in channels of distribution by 2023 due to COB/MIP dual line technology, large-scale all-in-one screen sizes and pixel pitch reduction to 0.5mm.

To Absen's value added partners who play a vital role in Absen's go to market strategy, Ruben promised, "As the global leading LED product and service provider, we have spared no effort in product innovation."

The product Launch

Darren Banks, Absen's Industry Development Director of Corporate, took up the mantle to deliver the detail of the product innovation with the product launch itself.

A New Era of Image Quality

The key to Absen's new KLCOB display, which combines extraordinary deep blacks with brilliant image, strong against impact  as well dust and moisture resistant  and maintaining cool for longer viewing periods, is Absen's flip chip technology.

The technology offers lower power consumption at the same brightness, high contrast and high brightness uninterrupted by shadows or other obstacles, for a display with triple contrast and a screen four times stronger than traditional LED, 40% more power efficient with reliability doubled. A screen radiant and robust for business settings such as conference room, lobby, TV studio and beyond.

KLCOB's black surface coating brings amazing black consistency improving the visual performance to an unprecedented level for greater viewer immersion but without the glare and reflection. The non-glare surface light source brings a softer and more uniform light to relieve the eye fatigue experienced when watching the screen for a long time.

Absen's image optimization enhances visuals

The KLCOB integrates multiple Absen image optimization technologies for realistic and incredible images enhanced in clarity and visibility: HDR 10, stunning 15000:1 contrast with 600Nits maximum brightness, 1.07 billion colours and cinema level color gamut at DCI-P3. An ultra-high refresh rate of 120Hz and 22-bit greyscale transitions, combine with 3840Hz operation for perfect low moire in-camera performance suitable for TV studios and lecture halls.

Super strong and stays cool for breathtaking immersion

Full flip chip COB technology and Absen's HBB common cathode technologies keep the KLCOB cool for stunning visuals without the heat. The investment into the strength of KLCOB assures a collision and oxidization proof panel whilst supporting its breathtaking proportions. The KLCOB Ultra High Definition screen is available at a staggering size of 433". The cabinet adopts a 16:9 display ratio which can be easily spliced into 2K, 4K or 8K screens for a truly immersive viewing experience.

Absen Green

Yet this mighty display treads lightly through the world, easy on our eyes in every sense and easy on the earth's resources. It's full energy saving potential is achieved through a combination of four technological innovations, which reduce energy consumption by forty percent compared to traditional screens under the same conditions. KLCOB practices the "Absen Green" concept.

"Absen will promote the innovation and development of the technology and products," concluded Jessica, "and together with global partners, accelerate the widespread application of Micro LED display."

SOURCE Absen
HOUSTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Boldly breaking new ground in a sought-after genre, Ro Smith takes lesbian lit erotica to the next level with a tasteful take on menage a trois.

A Taste For Three Ro Smith

A Taste for Three will be released on Amazon on August 31st, 2022 , with the kindle version already available to pre-order.

will be released on Amazon on , with the kindle version already available to pre-order. The author is known for her lusty lesbian micro reads, often with a black female lead.

Previous publications includes The Little Book of Quickies Series  a three-part series of sensual short stories, with each new release attracting an array of rhapsodic reviews.

Series  a three-part series of sensual short stories, with each new release attracting an array of rhapsodic reviews. A Taste for Three follows on from Pandora's Box, a quickie from Part 1 of the series, featuring lesbian couple Eve and Chloe and their unexpected new lover, Renae.

Raunchy romance novels are nothing new, but most feature a tired take on heteronormativity that fails to arouse interest among even the straightest of readers.

Evocative novelist Ro Smith is ready to revolutionize the romance literary landscape with her latest triumph, A Taste for Three. Alluring and avant-garde, this story serves to satisfy those innermost desires, exploring the uncharted intricacies of a three-woman relationship.

Eve and Chloe are the couple that becomes a triad when curvaceous beauty, Renae, brings a much-needed dose of desire, with unexpected consequences. Expertly written to underscore themes of exclusion, Ro Smith's take on this typically taboo lifestyle is absorbing no matter your orientation.

It allows for heightened awareness and understanding by drawing on realistic dialogue and themes that resonate with all who have ever felt desire. Most importantly, Ro Smith paves the way for other black female authors by featuring a strong black female lead, bringing much-needed representation to an international readership.

As she told us; "Black women...especially black, curvy women who happen to be lesbian, are rarely ever written as the main character or love interest in books. I want to change that. Being black is beautiful. Being curvy is beautiful. Being lesbian is beautiful. We, too, deserve to be placed on pedestals."

And when it comes to diversity in romance novels, Ro's not wrong. According to The State of Radical Diversity in Publishing, only 11.9% of all romance novels in 2021 were penned by BIPOC (black, indigenous, and/or people of color) authors. In 2017, that number was as low as 6.2%. The report is carried out annually by Bea and Leah Koch, who proudly run a queer-owned romance bookstore named The Ripped Bodice.

These statistics show that A Taste for Three is sure to provide a much-needed dose of diversity in a systemically stagnant romance literary genre.

About the Author

Ro Smith is a risque erotica and fiction writer with a penchant for providing refreshing character roles in a contemporary literary market. Previous titles include the Little Book of Quickies Series. All three are currently available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback format.

Her debut standalone story puts polyamorous romance books on the map with a realistic portrayal of diverse romantic relationships.

A Taste for Three is available for pre-order here.

For more information and inquiries:

www.iamrosmith.com

Ro Smith

15129314658

[email protected]

SOURCE Ro Smith
Richard Valenza, founder and CEO of RaiseAChild, was honored as an AARP Purpose Prize Fellow

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- RaiseAChild, a leader in recruitment and support services for prospective parents of foster-to-adopt youth, will receive a $10,000 grant to support its mission as part of the 2023 AARP Purpose Prize.

The organization announced today that its CEO and Founder, Richard Valenza, was named an AARP Purpose Prize fellow for his exceptional work as a nonprofit founder.

Based in Los Angeles and serving 14 counties in California, RaiseAChild recruits, educates and nurtures prospective foster families while partnering with agencies and the Department of Children and Family Services to improve the process of advancing foster children to safe, loving and permanent homes.

RaiseAChild is a recognized nationwide leader for LGBTQ+ families looking to foster and adopt. Valenza, 63, said he was inspired to found RaiseAChild after observing firsthand the glaring lack of diversity and inclusion within adoption and fostering services.

"As a single gay man who always dreamed of having a child, I felt an undercurrent of discouragement in the process of becoming a foster parent, the result of truly limited diversity in the foster and adoptive parent population," said Valenza. "Helping people overcome those obstacles is what our organization's all about, and we're honored that the AARP has recognized the substance of that mission."

In addition to the $10,000 grant, RaiseAChild will receive a year of technical support from AARP to help broaden the scope of its important work.

Valenza and other honorees will be recognized at the AARP Purpose Prize celebration event in October.

Launched in 2005, the national Purpose Prize award honors extraordinary people ages 50 and over who tap into the power of life experiences to build a better future for society. Purpose Prize recipients have proven they are using their life's knowledge and experiences to make a meaningful impact in people's lives by tackling some of the greatest societal challenges and also by helping to build a better future for us all

SOURCE RaiseAChild
John Travolta has led tributes to Olivia Newton-John, who died aged 73 on Monday (08.08.22).

The Grease star gushed that the actress - who played Sandy Olsen to his Danny Zuko in the 1978 movie musical - made all our lives so much better on social media on a retro photo of the late star.

The 68-year-old actor wrote on Instagram: My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better.

Your impact was incredible. I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again. Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever! Your Danny, your John!

Randal Keiser, who directed the high school classic, praised her for being one of a kind, and so very kind.

He told the Hollywood Reporter: Im Heartbroken. She was one of a kind, and so very kind. For over four decades of our friendship she exuded nothing but love to everyone she met. Olivia was exactly the way you imagined her. I will miss her forever.

George Takei lamented that Hollywood lost a great, iconic artist with her passing.

He wrote on Twitter: We have lost a great, iconic artist in Olivia Newton John, gone too soon from us at age 73. I trust she is now in the great Xanadu beyond. Know that we are forever hopelessly devoted to you, Olivia. Rest in song and mirth.

Gabrielle Union shared how much Grease meant to her and her sister and how much she loved Xanadu.

She wrote on Twitter: "Grease is my #1 movie of all time and made me a lifelong Olivia Newton John fan. Me and my sister watched Xanadu more times than I could count. Sending so much love and prayers to a real gift of a woman and talent.

Motown legend Dionne Warwick paid her respects to her dear friend.

She tweeted: Another angelic voice has been added to the Heavenly Choir. Not only was Olivia a dear friend, but one of the nicest people I had the pleasure of recording and performing with. I will most definitely miss her. She now Rests in the Arms of the Heavenly Father.

Academy Award winner Marlee Matlin shared how she was saddened by the death of her Its My Party co-star.

She said on Twitter: I am SO saddened at the news of the passing of Olivia Newton John. I remember being so star struck when I met her at my first Hollywood gathering for Paramount. She was the sweetest and brightest light and I loved getting to know her on "It's My Party." RIP dear, sweet Olivia.

Mia Farrow added: Very sad that lovely, talented brave Olivia Newton-John has died. I never got to meet her, but everyone says she was wonderful - always kind.

Jane Lynch - who starred on Glee where Olivia played a fictionalised version of herself in 2009 - tweeted: ONJ. Angel.

Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gun revealed that the icon was his first real crush.

He wrote on Twitter: Really sad to hear about the passing of Olivia Newton-John. My first real crush as a kid. I loved Grease her music I coincidentally also bought lived in for a while the wonderful home she built in Malibu. May she Rest In Peace.

Broadcaster Katie Couric wrote: Rest In Peace, Olivia.

TV chef Nigella Lawson tweeted: Her memory is already a blessing.
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Los Angeles City Planning released a draft ordinance that would prohibit new oil and gas extraction, phase out existing extraction operations, and protect the public from the range of risks and hazards associated with oil and gas extraction.

"The stark realities of the past have led us to face systemic injustice," stated Director of Planning Vince Bertoni. "Not only did we witness firsthand how the pandemic impacted underinvested communities, but we were reminded of the harsh consequences of climate change. To truly lead in the field of sustainability, we are putting an end to oil extraction next to homes, schools, and child care centers."

Rather than imposing setback requirements, this ordinance goes further, with the end result of phasing out all oil and gas extraction activities in Los Angeles. This new citywide approach responds to Mayoral and Council direction and builds upon ongoing efforts by the Department to center issues of environmental justice, equity and sustainability through land use considerations.

"Oil drilling has long been a part of our past, but today, we're sending a clear message: dirty energy production has no future in Los Angeles," said Mayor Eric Garcetti. "Earlier this year, I stood alongside fellow elected officials, activists, and community leaders to sign a directive to phase out oil and gas drilling in the City  and today, thanks to the tireless work of the Department of City Planning and City Attorney's Office, we are one step closer to getting toxic fumes out of our frontline communities."

In Los Angeles, there are 26 oil and gas fields and over 5,000 oil and gas wellssome active, others idle, and some abandoned. City Planning, along with the Office of Petroleum and Natural Gas Administration and Safety, Department of Building and Safety, and Fire Department, are responsible for monitoring and enforcement of existing drill sites.

City Planning, along with the Office of Petroleum and Natural Gas Administration and Safety, Department of Building and Safety, and Fire Department, are responsible for monitoring and enforcement of existing drill sites.

In the coming months, City Planning will facilitate public meetings with local stakeholders. Feedback collected at these hearings will inform the final ordinance that the Department will advance to Los Angeles's City Planning Commission for a formal recommendation. A Frequently Asked Questions document is available here .

[email protected]

(213) 978-1248

SOURCE LA City Planning
Khiron is well positioned to expand Zerenia clinics in Brazil following its successful introduction in July 2021 of Khiron-branded medical CBD. Dr. Eduardo Faveret, a thought leader and innovator in medical cannabis, has been appointed as Medical Director and will be leading the clinic. Dr. Faveret and the Zerenia Rio clinic will be supported by Khiron's strategic alliances with doctors and patient associations, including CANNAB in Salvador de Bahia, and leading medical distributors such as TAIMIN in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

"Brazil continues to experience exponential growth in prescribing doctors and demand for medical cannabis products by patients. ZereniaTM Rio, is positioned as a comprehensive and humanized pioneer in patient health service and prevention to improve the quality of life of Brazilian families," commented Dr. Eduardo Faveret, Medical Director for Zerenia Rio clinic. He continued, "We have assembled a multidisciplinary medical team that covers diverse medical cannabis specialties and treatments, which makes our Zerenia Rio clinic unique in Brazil."

In the fall, Khiron is expected to launch additional THC medical cannabis products in the country, which will complement its current global portfolio.

Alvaro Torres, CEO and Director of Khiron Life Sciences, said: "Khiron has developed a unique, successful, and sustainable model with the implementation of Zerenia in Colombia, Peru, and the United Kingdom. Brazil is Latin Americas largest addressable market with more than 210 million people and we believe that our ZereniaTM model will replicate the success we have experienced around the world. We have served more than 25,000 individual patients across the globe through our model, with high peer patient acquisition and retention rates. We have a fantastic team on the ground in Brazil composed of doctors, nurses, patient advocates, and administrative staff in our Zerenia Rio clinic that will elevate our patient-first model to new levels. Khiron's ZereniaTM Rio clinic in Brazil will also allow us to continue to generate more patient-based evidence on the pharmacoeconomic benefits of our Khiron-branded medical cannabis products, and through this data, Khiron could eventually be able provide insurance benefits for patients as we have done in Colombia."

About Khiron Life Sciences Corp.

Khiron is a leading vertically integrated international medical cannabis corporation with core operations in Latin America and Europe. Leveraging medical health clinics and proprietary telemedicine platforms, Khiron combines a patient-oriented approach, physician education programs, scientific, product innovation, and cannabis operations expertise to drive prescriptions and brand loyalty with patients worldwide. The Company has a sales presence in Colombia, Peru, Germany, United Kingdom, and Brazil and is positioned to commence sales in Mexico. The Company is led by co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Alvaro Torres, together with an experienced and diverse executive team and Board of Directors.

Visit Khiron online at https://investors.khiron.ca.

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/khiron-life-sciences-corp/

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All information contained herein that is not historical in nature constitutes forward-looking information. Forward-looking information and statements contained herein reflect management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available and on assumptions that management believes to be reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions regarding the future regulatory developments and economic conditions, the Company's ability to continue its growth and reduce costs. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.

SOURCE Khiron Life Sciences Corp.
BOZEMAN, Mont., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Bridger Photonics, Inc. (Bridger) announced today that it will deploy its airborne methane detecting laser technology in one of the largest natural gas fields in the world, the Marcellus Shale, with multi-energy company Repsol. The laser technology, called Gas Mapping LiDAR, was developed to simplify the detection and visualization of methane (natural gas) emissions across the oil and gas industry.

Detecting methane, a potent greenhouse gas, has recently taken center stage in advancing the energy transition toward lower-emission fuels such as natural gas. The environmental benefits can be realized if the methane stays in the pipes where it can be transported for use to power our homes and businesses, instead of being released into the atmosphere. Advanced methane emission detection technologies like Gas Mapping LiDAR are key to reducing methane emissions. Gas Mapping LiDAR uses laser sensors attached to small aircraft to image and measure methane emissions over oil and gas infrastructure. The aerial scanning technology efficiently covers large areas and detects over 90% of methane emissions in typical production basins.

After the laser scans are complete, Bridger provides digital maps and other data to quickly identify and prioritize repairs to eliminate the hidden methane leaks. This allows companies to baseline and track their total emissions over time to achieve their emissions reduction targets.

This detection technology is particularly relevant for the implementation of independent responsible gas certification, which has expanded within the oil and gas industry as a way for companies to independently and transparently verify their contribution to reducing methane emissions. Gas Mapping LiDAR scans can be carried out quarterly to help companies meet their certification requirements. Along those lines, Repsol recently announced it will seek independent certification of its produced natural gas from the Marcellus Shale through the non-profit third-party certification body, MiQ. Repsol is a global multi-energy company that is leading the energy transition with its ambition of achieving zero net emissions by 2050.

About Bridger Photonics, Inc.

Located in Bozeman, Montana, Bridger Photonics, Inc. provides aerial methane detection, localization, and quantification across the natural gas value chain. Bridger developed Gas Mapping LiDAR with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy's advanced research arm, ARPA-E, and won an R&D100 award for Gas Mapping LiDAR in 2019, which recognizes the top 100 innovations worldwide for that year. Bridger's mission is to enable clean, safe, and streamlined oil and gas operations by providing actionable data for methane emissions reduction. For more information, see www.bridgerphotonics.com.

Press Contact: Tessa Wuertz at 406.585.2774 or [email protected]

SOURCE Bridger Photonics, Inc.
Free backpacks and school supplies will be available to Metro Detroit families

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Mike Morse Law Firm is kicking off the back-to-school season by announcing the return of Project Backpack. In its ninth year, the program founded by Mike Morse, will surpass 250,000 backpacks and school supplies donated to students in the Detroit metropolitan area.

This year, the firm will once again partner with the Detroit Public School Community District and provide backpacks filled with school supplies to all DPSCD students in grades K-5. In addition to the backpacks distributed directly to DPSCD, the firm will also host a community backpack giveaway for students in other Michigan school districts.

"Each year, Project Backpack grows more and more. It's what I always hoped for when I began this program nine years ago," said Morse. Tweet this

DCSCD students will receive their backpacks the first week of classes at the school they are enrolled in.

Mike Morse Law Firm is excited to invite students from outside DPSCD to its annual Big Tent Backpack Event, which will take place August 13, from 11 a.m.  1 p.m. in the parking lot of the firm's Southfield office (24901 Northwestern Hwy). Backpacks will be distributed on a first come, first served basis to K-5 students accompanied by a parent or guardian.

In addition to the backpacks, there will be games, giveaways food and more to get everyone excited for another great school year ahead.

In total, Mike Morse Law Firm will provide approximately 30,000 backpacks to local students this year. The backpacks will contain pencils, folders, paper, scissors, crayons, glue, and other classroom essentials. However, this program extends far beyond the pencils and paper. For Morse, the program is about providing students with something many of them wouldn't otherwise receive  the gift of opportunity.

"Each year, Project Backpack grows more and more. It's what I always hoped for when I began this program nine years ago," said Morse. "I want to ensure that the kids of Detroit and surrounding communities have the tools they need for a successful school year  that's what Project Backpack is all about. And we will continue to make each year bigger and better than the last!"

For more information on Project Backpack, visit https://www.855mikewins.com/projectbackpack

Mike Morse is available for interviews in person or virtually.

About Mike Morse Law Firm

Since 1995, the Mike Morse Law Firm has been protecting the rights of Michigan auto accident and injury victims. They are Michigan's largest personal injury firm, specializing in auto, truck, pedestrian and motorcycle accidents as well as Social Security disability claims. They are experts in Michigan's No-Fault Act. Since opening their doors in 1995, the firm has won over one billion dollars for its clients. Mike Morse Law Firm handles cases throughout the state of Michigan, with a main office in Southfield. To learn more, call (855) 645-3946 or visit www.855mikewins.com.

SOURCE Mike Morse Law Firm
Reduces process development time by an estimated 40 percent

Enables biopharmaceutical companies to increase the speed to clinical manufacturing

Adds to company's best-in-class VirusExpress Lentiviral Production Platform

BURLINGTON, Mass., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MilliporeSigma, the U.S. and Canada Life Science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, has launched the VirusExpress 293 Adeno-Associated Virus (AAV) Production Platform, making it one of the first CDMOs and technology-developers to provide a full viral vector manufacturing offering including AAV, Lentiviral, CDMO, CTO, and process development. This new platform enables biopharmaceutical companies to increase the speed to clinical manufacturing while reducing process development time and costs.

MilliporeSigma scientists operating a 200 L Mobius Single-Use Bioreactor using the VirusExpress 293 Adeno-Associated Virus Production Platform at the company's facility in Carlsbad, California.

"Cell and gene therapies offer the potential for curative treatments and can be commercialized in half the time compared to traditional therapies," said Dirk Lange, Head of Life Science Services, Life Science business sector of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. "By increasing dose yields and dramatically reducing process development time, our VirusExpress 293 AAV Production Platform will accelerate manufacturing of these therapies, ultimately delivering lifesaving treatments to patients faster."

The new platform is an extension of the company's VirusExpress offering, which can reduce process development time by up to 40 percent, based on MilliporeSigma's experience as a CDMO. The company's VirusExpress Lentiviral Production Platform has enabled customers to increase the speed to clinical manufacturing, achieve five times higher titer than the leading competitor, and transition a legacy process to a templated solution.

MilliporeSigma's VirusExpress Platforms offer a simplified upstream workflow for the production of AAV and Lentivirus, making processes easier to manage, adjust and scale. In addition to accelerating process development, the suspension culture format allows for larger batch yields to enable more patient doses. Additionally, suspension culture is amenable to scalable robust manufacturing processes, while being less labor-intensive. The chemically defined cell culture media eliminates the safety, regulatory and supply chain concerns related to animal- and human-derived materials. Flexible licensing allows companies to manufacture vectors by using MilliporeSigma's contract manufacturing capabilities and expertise with access to both the upstream and downstream templates or by using in-house development or a third-party.

MilliporeSigma is a leading CDMO and has been involved in this space since clinical trials for gene therapy began in the 1990s. In October 2021, the company opened its second Carlsbad, California-based facility, more than doubling its existing production capacity to support large-scale commercial manufacturing.

Follow MilliporeSigma on Twitter @MilliporeSigma, on Facebook @MilliporeSigma and on LinkedIn.

All Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany news releases are distributed by email at the same time they become available on the EMD Group website. In case you are a resident of the U.S. or Canada please go to www.emdgroup.com/subscribe to register again for your online subscription of this service as our newly introduced geo-targeting requires new links in the email. You may later change your selection or discontinue this service.

About the Life Science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

The Life Science business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, which operates as MilliporeSigma in the U.S. and Canada, has more than 26,000 employees and 55 manufacturing and testing sites worldwide, with a portfolio of more than 300,000 products focused on scientific discovery, biomanufacturing and testing services. Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, a leading science and technology company, operates across healthcare, life science and electronics.

Around 60,000 employees work to make a positive difference to millions of people's lives every day by creating more joyful and sustainable ways to live. From advancing gene-editing technologies and discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices  the company is everywhere. In 2021, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany generated sales of  19.7 billion in 66 countries.

The company holds the global rights to the name and trademark "Merck" internationally. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany operate as EMD Serono in healthcare, MilliporeSigma in life science, and EMD Electronics. Since its founding in 1668, scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to the company's technological and scientific advances. To this day, the founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company. For more information about Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, visit www.emdgroup.com.

SOURCE MilliporeSigma
BOCA RATON, Fla., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MiX Telematics (JSE: MIX,NYSE: MIXT), a leading global provider of connected fleet and mobile asset management solutions, is collaborating with Hino Trucks' Edge to become an authorized Hino data services partner.

This collaboration will provide MiX customers in North America that operate Hino trucks with rich data sets, informing intelligent decision-making regarding vehicle maintenance, safety, efficiency, and compliance. It also removes the need for the installation of aftermarket hardware in associated vehicles.

"The future of commercial vehicle telematics lies in successful OEM integrations," says Charles Tasker, Chief Operating Officer at MiX Telematics. "MiX is rapidly accelerating working with leading vehicle OEMs to ensure clients can easily access rich data needed to optimize fleet and driver safety."

Whilst OEM telematics won't replace all telematics hardware capabilities, there is an increasing demand for telematics software that's augmented by additional capabilities and robust data analytics.

Hino Trucks' Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Glenn Ellis had to say, "We are pleased to add MiX Telematics as a data service partner. Our Edge telematics open platform allows partners like MiX Telematics to access core vehicle data to enhance the operational and actionable analytics they provide their customers through the MiX Telematics platform."

About MiX Telematics

MiX Telematics is a leading global provider of fleet and mobile asset management solutions delivered as SaaS to 838,300 global subscribers spanning more than 120 countries. The company's products and services provide enterprise fleets, small fleets and consumers with solutions for efficiency, safety, compliance and security. MiX Telematics was founded in 1996 and has offices in South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, Uganda, Brazil, Mexico, Australia and the United Arab Emirates as well as a network of more than 130 fleet partners worldwide. MiX Telematics shares are publicly traded on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE: MIX) and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MIXT). For more information, visit www.mixtelematics.com .

For further information

Melanie Esterhuizen

Brand and Communications Manager (International), MiX Telematics

e. [email protected]

SOURCE MiX Telematics
SINGAPORE, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The bearish vibe is slowing down trading activities and many other things in crypto space, but it is not slowing MoonXBT's progress in launching new trading products.

MoonXBT, the innovative crypto social trading platform has recently launched another derivative trading product  perpetual swap.

Compared to the original perpetual swap that was invented in 2016, MoonXBT's perpetual swap is improved to have more simplicity and less risk.

What is perpetual swap?

Perpetual swap is a kind of derivative similar to a future contract. The major difference of perpetual swap compared to a future contract is that it does not have an expiration date and therefore need no delivery. This directly brings two advantages.

First of all, a perpetual swap trader can hold a contract much longer and technically face less liquidation possibility because no delivery will be forced. And a trader can hold the contract long enough to wait for the price to change until he or she turns loss into profit if the trader can manage the margin and leverage properly.

Moreover, perpetual swap can waive a trader from re-establishing long or short positions constantly like what they do when the future contracts expire. This will save the traders not only energy but also actual money because losses may occur during moving positions. This is especially welcomed by traders who are frequent derivative traders.

In addition to the above advantages, another major difference between perpetual swap and a future contract is that perpetual swap adopts a funding rate mechanism to make sure the price of perpetual swap is anchored to the spot market price. The funding rate mechanism incentivizes or decentivizes long and short positions by charging them a certain fee in order to achieve the balance of the price.

Traders need to take the funding rate into consideration when calculating their profits or losses. At MoonXBT, the funding rate fee is exchanged between sellers and buyers at the end of every 8-hour interval. When the funding rate is positive, long position holders pay the short position holders and vice versa. Traders will only pay or receive a funding fee if they hold a position at the calculating time of the interval.

Why Choose MoonXBT's Perpetual Swap?

The MoonXBT's perpetual swap is improved based on the original invention to make it simpler to operate positions and manage risks.

The MoonXBT perpetual swap are linear contracts in USDT. All the margins, profits and losses are calculated in USDT. In this way, traders do not need to allocate their funds into different sub-accounts for different trading pairs, they can open multiple positions with one account and have their profits and losses calculated all together making it simpler to manage one's account and funds.

In the meantime, when unifying settlements with USDT, traders can balance the risk of their portfolio by using the profit of one contract to make up the losses of another contract to avoid the loss of one single contract causing liquidation of an account.

Be noted that MoonXBT provides both cross margin and isolated margin mode. Under cross margin mode, margin is shared between different positions as described above. When needed, one position will draw more margin from other positions to avoid liquidation. In contrast, under isolated margin mode, margin assigned to a position can not be changed. But this could be also useful to stop loss.

MoonXBT's perpetual swap is one-way meaning a trader can either open a long or short position for one contract instead of holding both long and short position for one contract at the same time. This simplifies the risk evaluation and decision making process for traders since they need to only speculate in one way instead of thinking about more complicated hedging strategies. And fast speculation is crucial to deal with fast price fluctuations.

MoonXBT allows users to choose from different tiers of margin and adjust the leverage as freely as they need. The biggest leverage is 100 times. Compared to perpetual swap products on other peer platforms which in reality only offer limited options of leverages, MoonXBT actually wants to protect the traders by allowing them to adjust margin and leverage as they wish.

In terms of trading fees, MoonXBT charges the maker a 0.025% trading fee and the taker a 0.075% trading fee.

It can be seen from the above, no matter if it's easy to operate, or there are various ways to manage risks, or its flexibility to allow traders to optimize their profit and minimize their loss, MoonXBT's perpetual swap is a product that is in the best interest of the traders instead of other parties. Traders can be free of concerns to trade perpetual swap on the platform with all the provided facilitation. Even if the market is rather quiet now, it is a good time to test the new products on MoonXBT and get familiarized to prepare oneself for the market to come back.

For more information, please visit: https://support.moonxbt.com/hc/en-us/articles/5201089714191-MoonXBT-USDT-Perpetual-Contract-is-live-

Follow MoonXBT at:

 Twitter | Facebook

 Telegram | Discord

SOURCE MoonXBT
TSX:MPVD and OTC: MPVDF

TORONTO and NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. ("Mountain Province", the "Company") (TSX: MPVD) (OTC: MPVDF) today its financial and operating results for the second quarter ("Q2 2022") and first half 2021 ("H1 2022") ended June 30, 2022. All figures are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

Second Quarter 2022 Key Takeaways

Record Quarterly Adjusted EBITDA of C$55.1M





Revenue of $97.8M representing the second highest quarterly revenue in the Company's history and a 16% increase relative to that achieved in Q1 2022





representing the second highest quarterly revenue in the Company's history and a 16% increase relative to that achieved in Q1 2022 Strong average value per carat of US$130 follows closely to the unprecedented price growth during the Q1/22. The rough diamond market continues to experience strong demand supported by solid US retail results. Further support to the market is anticipated from jewellery retail in China as Covid restrictions ease in that country.





follows closely to the unprecedented price growth during the Q1/22. The rough diamond market continues to experience strong demand supported by solid US retail results. Further support to the market is anticipated from jewellery retail in as Covid restrictions ease in that country. Repurchase for cancellation of approximately US$26.4 million aggregate principal amount of the 8.000% Senior Secured Second Lien Notes following the close of the fiscal quarter





aggregate principal amount of the 8.000% Senior Secured Second Lien Notes following the close of the fiscal quarter A successful winter exploration program included further drilling of the Hearne Northwest Extension at the Gahcho Kue mine. Results included Kimberlite intersected in 60% of drill holes with mineralization ranging between 24.3 to 114.5 meters (see press release, July 18, 2022 ).

Mark Wall, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, commented:

"The Company continues its' strong financial performance through the first half and into Q3 of 2022. We are pleased with these financial results. At the same time there remains work to do on the operations side. There are plans in place to correct the dilution issues seen early in the year, and these are working. Significant work has recently been completed on the primary crusher and I expect these upgrades to have a positive impact. There remain other areas of the operational performance that do not meet our expectations and we continue to actively engage with De Beers as the operator around the plan to deliver these improvements.

Together with our increased revenues, our recent repurchasing of Senior Secured Second Lien Notes has strengthened our balance sheet as we move closer to achieving our strategic and financial goals planned for the second half of this year."

Operational Highlights for Second Quarter 2022 ("Q2 2022")

749,000 ore tonnes treated, a 6% increase relative to Q1 2022, and an 8% decrease relative to Q2 2021 (Q1 2022, 707,553 ore tonnes treated; Q2 2021: 811,171 ore tonnes treated).





1,043,000 ore tonnes mined, a 2% increase relative to 1,019,000 tonnes mined in Q1 2022 and a 5% increase relative to the 993,000 tonnes mined in Q2 2021





1,261,000 carats recovered at an average grade of 1.68 carats per tonne, a 6% increase relative to Q1 2022 and a 29% decrease compared to the 1,764,000 carats recovered at 2.18 carats per tonne in Q2 2021 (Q2 2021: 1,763,556 carats recovered, Q1 2022: 1,185,156 carats recovered).





7,881,000 total tonnes mined, a 6% increase relative to Q1 2022 and a 10% decrease from 8,749,000 total tonnes mined in Q2 2021.

Financial Highlights for Second Quarter 2022 ("Q2 2022")

Revenue from 587,000 carats sold at $97.8 million ( US$76.0 million ) at an average realised value of $167 per carat (US$130) compared to $64.7 million from 719,000 carats sold in Q2 2021 ( US$52.6 million ) at an average realized value of $90 per carat (US$73) .





( ) at an average realised value of per carat compared to from 719,000 carats sold in Q2 2021 ( ) at an average realized value of per carat . Adjusted EBITDA 1 of a record $55.1 million compared to $37.9 million in Q2 2021.





of a record compared to in Q2 2021. Earnings from mine operations $51.4 million compared to $32.8 million in Q2 2021.





compared to in Q2 2021. Cash costs of production, including capitalized stripping costs 1 of $126 per tonne treated (2021: $97 per tonne) and $75 per carat recovered (2021: $45 per carat).





of per tonne treated (2021: per tonne) and per carat recovered (2021: per carat). Net income at June 30, 2022 was $22.6 million or $0.11 earnings per share (2021: $22.5 million or $0.11 earnings per share). Included in the determination of the net income at June 30, 2022 are unrealized foreign exchange losses of $11.7 million , on the translation of the Company's USD-denominated long-term debt. The unrealized foreign exchange losses are a result of the weakening of the Canadian dollar versus US dollar.

1Cash costs of production, including capitalized stripping costs, and Adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS measures with no standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS. See the Non-IFRS Measures section of the Company's June 30, 2022 MD&A for explanation and reconciliation.

Operational Highlights for H1 2022

16.0 million total tonnes mined in H1 2022, a 12% increase from the 14.3 million total tonnes mined in H1 2021.





1,457,000 tonnes of ore treated in H1 2022; a 1% increase compared to the 1,437,000 tonnes treated in H1 2021.





2,446,000 carats recovered at an average grade of 1.68 carats per tonne, 22% lower than the 3,156,000 carats, 2.20 carats per tonne, recovered in H1 2021.

Financial Highlights for H1 2022

Total sales revenue of $182.4 million ( US$142.7 million ) at an average realised value of $167 per carat (US$130) compared to $119 million in 2021 ( US$95.3 million ) at an average realized value of $90 per carat (US$72) .





( ) at an average realised value of per carat compared to in 2021 ( ) at an average realized value of per carat . Half year Adjusted EBITDA 2 of $99.7 million compared to $57.1 million in H1 2021.





of compared to in H1 2021. Earnings from mine operations of $94.2 million (2021: $46.5 million ).





(2021: ). Cash costs of production, including capitalized stripping costs 2 , of $136 per tonne treated (2021: $115 per tonne) and $81 per carat recovered (2021: $53 per carat).





, of per tonne treated (2021: per tonne) and per carat recovered (2021: per carat). Net income for half year 2022 at June 30, 2022 was $47 million or $0.22 earnings per share (2021: net income $29.8 million or $0.14 earnings per share). Included in the determination of the net income for the half year at June 30, 2022 are unrealized foreign exchange losses of $7.4 million , on the translation of the Company's USD-denominated long-term debt. The unrealized foreign exchange losses are a result of the weakening of the Canadian dollar versus US dollar.





was or earnings per share (2021: net income or earnings per share). Included in the determination of the net income for the half year at are unrealized foreign exchange losses of , on the translation of the Company's USD-denominated long-term debt. The unrealized foreign exchange losses are a result of the weakening of the Canadian dollar versus US dollar. Capital expenditures in H1 2022 were $24.2 million , $18.5 million of which were deferred stripping costs, with the remaining $5.7 million accounting for sustaining capital expenditures related to mine operations.

2Cash costs of production, including capitalized stripping costs, and Adjusted EBITDA are non-IFRS measures with no standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS. See the Non-IFRS Measures section of the Company's June 30, 2022 MD&A for explanation and reconciliation.

Market Highlights for Q2 & H1 2022

In Q2 2022, 587,000 carats were sold at an average value of $167 per carat (US$130 per carat) for total proceeds of $97.8 million (US$76.0 million) in comparison to 719,00 carats sold at an average value of $90 per carat (US$73 per carat) for total proceeds of $64.7 million (US$52.6 million) in Q2 2021.

During H1 2022, 1,094,000 carats were sold at an average value of $167 per carat (US$130 per carat) for total proceeds of $182.4 million (US$142.7 million) in comparison to 1,322,000 carats sold at an average value of $90 per carat (US$72 per carat) for total proceeds of $119.0 million (US$74.2 million) in H1 2021.

Gahcho Kue Mine Operations

The following table summarizes key operating statistics for the Gahcho Kue Mine in the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.





Three months ended Three months ended Six months ended Six months ended



June 30, 2022 June 30, 2021 June 30, 2022 June 30, 2021











GK operating data









Mining









*Ore tonnes mined kilo tonnes 1,043 993 2,062 1,508 *Waste tonnes mined kilo tonnes 6,838 7,756 13,987 12,846 *Total tonnes mined kilo tonnes 7,881 8,749 16,049 14,354 *Ore in stockpile kilo tonnes 1,353 340 1,353 340











Processing









*Ore tonnes processed kilo tonnes 749 811 1,457 1,437 *Average plant throughput tonnes per day 8,231 9,011 8,050 7,852 *Average diamond recovery carats per tonne 1.68 2.18 1.68 2.20 *Diamonds recovered 000's carats 1,261 1,764 2,446 3,156 Approximate diamonds recovered - Mountain Province 000's carats 618 864 1,199 1,546 Cash costs of production per tonne of ore, net of capitalized stripping ** $ 103 85 110 100 Cash costs of production per tonne of ore, including capitalized stripping** $ 126 97 136 115 Cash costs of production per carat recovered, net of capitalized stripping** $ 61 39 65 45 Cash costs of production per carat recovered, including capitalized stripping** $ 75 45 81 53











Sales









Approximate diamonds sold - Mountain Province*** 000's carats 587 719 1,094 1,322 Average diamond sales price per carat US $ 130 $ 73 $ 130 $ 72

* at 100% interest in the Gahcho Kue Mine **See Non-IFRS Measures section of the Company's June 30, 2022 MD&A for explanation and reconciliation ***Includes the sales directly to De Beers for fancies and specials acquired by De Beers through the production split bidding process

Financial Performance





Three months ended Three months ended Six months ended Six months ended (in thousands of Canadian dollars, except where otherwise noted)

June 30, 2022 June 30, 2021 June 30, 2022 June 30, 2021











Sales $ 97,761 75,147 182,414 129,371 Carats sold 000's carats 587 719 1,094 1,322 Average price per carat sold $/carat 167 105 167 98 Cost of sales per carat* $/carat 79 59 81 63 Earnings from mine operations per carat $ 88 46 86 35 Earnings from mine operations % 53 % 44 % 51 % 36 % Selling, general and administrative expenses $ 3,803 2,676 7,797 5,285 Operating income $ 43,047 28,756 78,065 39,288 Net income for the period $ 22,634 22,472 46,961 29,784 Basic an diluted earnings per share $ 0.11 0.11 0.22 0.14

* This cost of sales per carat includes the cost of acquiring 51% of the fancies and specials which have been sold, after having been won in a tendering process with De Beers Canada.

Conference Call

The Company will host its quarterly conference call on Wednesday, August 10th, 2022 at 11:00am ET.

Title: Mountain Province Diamonds Inc Q2 2022 Earnings Conference Call

Conference ID: 56265156

Date of call: August 10, 2022

Time of call: 11:00 Eastern Time

Expected Duration: 60 minutes

Webcast Link:

https://app.webinar.net/EjQrB08Bd0K

Participant Toll-Free Dial-In Number: (+1) 888-390-0546

Participant International Dial-In Number: (+1) 416-764-8688

A replay of the webcast and audio call will be available on the Company's website.

About the Company

Mountain Province Diamonds is a 49% participant with De Beers Canada in the Gahcho Kue diamond mine located in Canada's Northwest Territories. The Gahcho Kue Joint Venture property consists of several kimberlites that are actively being mined, developed, and explored for future development. The Company also controls 106,202 hectares of highly prospective mineral claims and leases that surround the Gahcho Kue Joint Venture property that include an indicated mineral resource for the Kelvin kimberlite and inferred mineral resources for the Faraday kimberlites.

For further information on Mountain Province Diamonds and to receive news releases by email, visit the Company's website at www.mountainprovince.com.

Qualified Person

The disclosure in this news release of scientific and technical information regarding Mountain Province's mineral properties has been reviewed and approved by Matthew MacPhail, P.Eng., MBA, and Tom E. McCandless, Ph.D., P.Geo., both employees of Mountain Province Diamonds and Qualified Persons as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian and United States securities laws concerning the business, operations and financial performance and condition of Mountain Province Diamonds Inc. Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to operational hazards, including possible disruption due to pandemic such as COVID-19, its impact on travel, self-isolation protocols and business and operations, estimated production and mine life of the project of Mountain Province; the realization of mineral reserve estimates; the timing and amount of estimated future production; costs of production; the future price of diamonds; the estimation of mineral reserves and resources; the ability to manage debt; capital expenditures; the ability to obtain permits for operations; liquidity; tax rates; and currency exchange rate fluctuations. Except for statements of historical fact relating to Mountain Province, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as "anticipates," "may," "can," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "projects," "targets," "intends," "likely," "will," "should," "to be", "potential" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may", "should" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, and are based on a number of assumptions and subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Many of these assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within the control of Mountain Province and there is no assurance they will prove to be correct.

Factors that could cause actual results to vary materially from results anticipated by such forward-looking statements include the development of operation hazards which could arise in relation to COVID-19, including, but not limited to protocols which may be adopted to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and any impact of such protocols on Mountain Province's business and operations, variations in ore grade or recovery rates, changes in market conditions, changes in project parameters, mine sequencing; production rates; cash flow; risks relating to the availability and timeliness of permitting and governmental approvals; supply of, and demand for, diamonds; fluctuating commodity prices and currency exchange rates, the possibility of project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated.

These factors are discussed in greater detail in Mountain Province's most recent Annual Information Form and in the most recent MD&A filed on SEDAR, which also provide additional general assumptions in connection with these statements. Mountain Province cautions that the foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Investors and others who base themselves on forward-looking statements should carefully consider the above factors as well as the uncertainties they represent and the risk they entail. Mountain Province believes that the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release.

Although Mountain Province has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Mountain Province undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Statements concerning mineral reserve and resource estimates may also be deemed to constitute forward-looking statements to the extent they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered as the property is developed.

Further, Mountain Province may make changes to its business plans that could affect its results. The principal assets of Mountain Province are administered pursuant to a joint venture under which Mountain Province is not the operator. Mountain Province is exposed to actions taken or omissions made by the operator within its prerogative and/or determinations made by the joint venture under its terms. Such actions or omissions may impact the future performance of Mountain Province. Under its current note and revolving credit facilities Mountain Province is subject to certain limitations on its ability to pay dividends on common stock. The declaration of dividends is at the discretion of Mountain Province's Board of Directors, subject to the limitations under the Company's debt facilities, and will depend on Mountain Province's financial results, cash requirements, future prospects, and other factors deemed relevant by the Board

SOURCE Mountain Province Diamonds Inc.
CLEVELAND and BOSTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MPE Partners ("MPE" or "Morgenthaler Private Equity"), along with portfolio company Motor-Services Hugo Stamp, Inc. ("MSHS") announced the acquisition of Pacific Power Group, LLC ("PPG" or the "Company"). PPG is an industry leading provider of products, parts, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul ("MRO") services for marine, energy, commercial, and industrial equipment.

MPE and MSHS partnered in the transaction with members of PPG's management team, led by Bill Mossey. David Santamaria, CEO of MSHS, said, "For over 30 years, PPG and MSHS have strived to be their clients' trusted partners and recognized for their customer-centered mindset and a deep commitment to a set of common core values. PPG and MSHS are extremely complementary companies with similar ways of working."

Joe Machado, Partner at MPE, added, "We are thrilled to bring together PPG and MSHS to accelerate the growth opportunities of the merged businesses. The combination expands each company's technical talent base, geographic footprint, product offerings, MRO service capabilities, and end-markets to better serve customers."

Bill Mossey, President of PPG, noted, "I am especially excited about how the scale of these firms together enables expanded recruiting and training, which allows us to broaden our technical services. Through an expanded investment in this area, we will strive to become more capable and have greater capacity to solve our customers' challenges and allow them to focus more on their businesses."

Forbright Bank and City National Bank of Florida provided financing to support the transaction. BakerHostetler served as legal advisor to MPE. Cascadia Capital acted as the investment banking advisor to Pacific Power Group. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

About Pacific Power Group

Headquartered in Vancouver, WA, PPG is an industry leading provider of products, parts, and maintenance, repair, and overhaul ("MRO") services for marine, energy, commercial and industrial equipment. For more information, please visit www.pacificpowergroup.com.

About Motor-Services Hugo Stamp, Inc.

Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, FL, MSHS is a leading independent, third-party MRO services provider for marine and power generation applications. For more information, please visit www.mshs.com.

About MPE Partners

MPE Partners ("MPE" or "Morgenthaler Private Equity") seeks to be the preferred partner for entrepreneur- and family-owned companies. Based in Cleveland, OH, and Boston, MA, MPE invests in profitable, lower middle market companies with transaction values up to $250 million. MPE has two primary target investment areas: high-value manufacturing and commercial & industrial services. For more information, please visit www.mpepartners.com.

SOURCE MPE Partners
Norwest and Medtech Convergence Fund co-lead investment in molecular diagnostic company working to improve diagnostic testing for women's health screening

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Nanopath Inc. , a molecular diagnostics company enabling high-quality molecular testing in minutes, announced today that it has closed $10 million in Series A funding, co-led by Norwest Venture Partners and the Medtech Convergence Fund, a SV Health Investors venture fund, with participation from Gingerbread Capital and Green D Ventures. The funding will support development and commercialization of Nanopath's biosensing platform that aims to transform how women's pelvic and gynecologic infections are diagnosed.

"Nanopath's mission is deeply rooted in improving women's health and even more broadly, health equity for all. We envision Nanopath's technology as the go-to platform for routine women's health screening, allowing for clinically actionable diagnosis within a single office visit," said Amogha Tadimety, Ph.D., co-founder and CEO of Nanopath. "With this funding, we're looking to build our technical team and initiate commercial and clinical partnerships to bring our technology platform to market."

Reimagining Diagnostic Testing to Advance Women's Health

Nanopath's co-founders are working to close two major gaps in the industry: the limited number of disruptive life science companies focused on women's health and the limited number of women-led life science companies. Built on a core mission to address these critical disparities, Nanopath is developing technological breakthroughs designed to empower the patient and provider.

Nanopath seeks to address disparities in care for underserved populations, starting with women's health, by introducing a novel approach to molecular diagnostic testing that harnesses advances in bioengineering and nanotechnology to accurately identify and characterize a variety of pathogens within minutes, compared to existing gold-standard diagnostics that take days to return results. The technology can simultaneously characterize multiple pathogens with one test, leading to faster, more precise diagnosis and treatment.

Nanopath's proprietary biosensing technology utilizes ultrasensitive optical detection to identify DNAs and RNAs, without the need for nucleic acid amplification. This amplification-free approach minimizes reagents, lowers costs and reduces user steps that are ubiquitous across molecular diagnostics. Nanopath's platform will require minimal training to operate, making high-complexity molecular diagnostics testing accessible at the point-of-care.

A Future Where Providers Deliver Test Results and Prescribe Treatment in Minutes

Nanopath's technology has the potential to simultaneously test for multiple pathogens, based on presenting symptoms, and reduce delivery of test results from days to just 15 minutes. The company has generated strong pilot clinical data in its two lead indications through collaborations with leading hospital systems in New England.

"What we are building has the potential to holistically improve patient care by circumventing existing complex, expensive and time-consuming workflows, while simultaneously providing more granular health information," said Alison Burklund, Ph.D., co-founder and CTO of Nanopath. "We started in the women's health space because of the deep unmet need, and our desire as founders to bring a first-in-class diagnostic platform to a population that has been consistently overlooked. That said, our technology has the potential to be valuable in any situation where DNA or RNA detection is useful, including respiratory disease diagnosis, characterization of genetic risk factors, and even biosecurity surveillance and environmental monitoring."

"The women's health diagnostics market is ready for a solution that not only provides better and more actionable information, but also integrates with existing and emerging care delivery models," said Jeff Crowe, senior managing partner at Norwest Venture Partners. "The Nanopath platform can provide results with the same, if not better, accuracy than existing methods, within 15 minutes, and at lower cost. Nanopath is well positioned to improve diagnosis and care delivery across a range of healthcare settings."

"Nanopath has hit on a new approach that is poised to disrupt the existing molecular testing paradigm. We look forward to working with this team to advance their technology," said Aaron Sandoski, founding partner at SV Health Investors' Medtech Convergence Fund.

Both Crowe and Sandoski have joined Nanopath's board in tandem with this funding round. In late July, the company was named winner of the 2022 AACC Disruptive Technology Award , which recognizes innovative testing technology solutions that improve patient care through diagnostic performance or access to high-quality testing. Nanopath was also a winner of the inaugural 2021 Ignite Golden Ticket , which honors companies that advance life sciences innovation by making the biotechnology industry more inclusive and equitable by directly supporting promising entrepreneurs.

Nanopath is actively growing its purpose-driven team. To learn more about open positions, please visit www.nanopathdx.com/opportunities .

About Nanopath

Nanopath is dedicated to improving health equity worldwide, starting with women's health. Nanopath's proprietary molecular diagnostic test takes a radically new approach to how clinicians measure and characterize human health. Through its novel biosensing technology, the company has the potential to enable fast, high-complexity tests to be performed in minutes and at the point-of-care, rather than in centralized laboratories. Nanopath's founders seek to improve the lives of women and other underserved populations, while simultaneously enhancing the lives of the Nanopath team members through purpose-driven work that helps to develop and deploy its products. The company is headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., at LabCentral, the premier launchpad for high-potential life sciences and biotech start-ups. Nanopath was spun out of Dartmouth College in 2019 in partnership with Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. For more information, visit www.nanopathdx.com .

SOURCE Nanopath
Kim Kardashian is furious with Kanye West after he mocked her breakup with Pete Davidson, say a source.

The 41-year-old reality television personality is believed to be spitting feathers after her 45-year-old ex husband - who changed his name to Ye in November - after he mocked their relationship after the pair called it quits after getting together on the set of SNL in October.

After the news of their split broke, the Stronger rapper - who Kim filed for divorce from in January last year - shared a fake front page of the New York Times with a headline that read: Skete Davidson Dead At Age 28, along with the following text: Kid Cudi meant to play funeral but fearful of bottle throwers.

An insider told the Daily Mail: Kim wont stand for this. She is demanding that Kanye take the post down, but he wont.

She has been vigorously defending Pete. Shell never get back together with Kanye over the way hes treated the people she loves and respects.

They added that The Kardashians star has been trying to keep it civil with Kanye for the sake of their four children - daughter North, eight, son Saint, six, daughter Chicago, four, and son Psalm, three - but wont stand for this type of behaviour.

They said: She has tried incredibly hard to have a good co-parenting situation for the children. She wont stand for this type of behavior from him.

In the early days of Kim and Petes relationship, Kanye made his upset known about his ex moving on with The King of Staten Island star as he featured an cartoon - who closely resembled Pete - being buried alive in his music video for Eazy and vocalised his feelings on Instagram, which caused him to be banned on the photo sharing app for 24 hours for harassment.

Kim - according to messages between her and Kanye - accused the rapper of creating a dangerous and scary environment and that someone will hurt Pete and this will be all your fault.

Ye turned his ire towards Trevor Noah, host of The Daily Show after the 38-year-old comic addressed his concerning behaviour on his Comedy Central chat show, subjecting him to racist name calling.

In response, Trevor wrote on Instagram:  Youre an indelible part of my life Ye. Which is why it breaks my heart to see you like this. I dont care if you support Trump and I dont care if you roast Pete. I do however care when I see you on a path thats dangerously close to peril and pain  Dont ever forget, the biggest trick racists ever played on black people was teaching us to strip each other of our blackness whenever we disagree. Tricking us into dividing ourselves up into splinters so that we would never unite into a powerful rod.
Annual showcase supports local community with significant lift for minority-owned businesses

HOUSTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Pepsi National Battle of the Bands presented by Toyota (NBOTB) today announced it has helped to provide over $100,000 in revenue for minority-owned businesses in Houston, Texas. NBOTB contracted with nine minority-owned businesses for the 2021 edition of the annual marching band showcase, which generated a total of $106,290.56 in revenue for the small businesses. NBOTB is proud to support these local minority-owned businesses by contracting with them for various products and services including signage, apparel, catering, and marketing, among others. Partnerships with minority-owned businesses for the 2022 NBOTB event are already underway.

2022 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands presented by Toyota

"The National Battle of the Bands takes great pride in supporting local and minority-owned businesses in the lead up to the competition and during the event," said Derek Webber, Executive Producer, National Battle of the Bands. "We choose to pour back into the local economy as much as possible by working and partnering with minority business owners. The idea is to empower families to create more opportunities and to help narrow the widening wealth gap in America that disproportionately affects minorities and people of color."

The Emerging Experience Entrepreneur Conference presented by JP Morgan Chase, one of the NBOTB official events, will take place on Friday, August 26 from 9:00 a.m.  1:00 p.m. at The Deluxe Theater as part of the NBOTB and JP Morgan Chase's partnership focused on strengthening the commitment to closing the racial wealth gap by providing more opportunities to minority business owners. National and local bank leaders are coming to 5th Ward to conduct a workshop with community entrepreneurs to learn from, connect with, collaborate, impact, and inspire each other.

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), a substantial amount of family wealth lies in business ownership, so business ownership is now considered the "second solution" to building wealth. This is why NBOTB prioritizes contracts with local minority business owners. The goal is to both entertain and enrich the local community.

NBOTB's mission is to enhance the exposure of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their marching bands, the roles they play in educating aspiring musicians, and developing our future leaders. Event organizers have generated more than $700,000 in scholarships for the participating colleges and universities. The competition is an iconic tradition, not only amongst HBCUs, but as a staple in American culture. NBOTB was created to be the nation's best kick-off to the fall marching band season by showcasing new performances by the country's top marching bands. It offers unmatched exposure to the marching bands of HBCUs, and has broad appeal among varying age groups and socio-economic demographic groups.

NBOTB will be supporting local minority-owned businesses once again this year in the lead up to the 2022 NBOTB, which takes place on Saturday, August 27 at NRG Stadium.

NBOTB organizers can be made available to discuss these initiatives for select on-camera interviews with television news media in the Houston market and for select Zoom-based interviews with media outlets worldwide.

For more information about the NBOTB, visit https://www.nationalbattleofthebands.com/.

About National Battle of the Bands: Enhancing the exposure of Historically Black Colleges & Universities marching bands, while developing students through music and education, the NBOTB is an annual musical showcase. The National Battle of the Bands' mission is to enhance the exposure of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their marching bands, the roles they play in educating aspiring musicians, and developing future leaders. Event organizers have generated more than $700,000 in scholarships for the participating colleges and universities.

Media Contact:

Derek D. Ross, NBOTB

[email protected]

919-423-5617

SOURCE National Battle of the Bands
The semi-annual report issued by PatientRightsAdvocate.org is a detailed look at hospital compliance with price transparency measures required by law

WASHINGTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A new report released by PatientRightsAdvocate.org shows a vast majority of hospitals continue to hide the actual prices from consumers nearly 20 months after the Hospital Price Transparency Rule went into effect.

The transparency law went into effect January 1, 2021, to establish a functional, competitive market in healthcare allowing consumers to benefit from competition and through choice lower their costs of both care and coverage.

The latest Semi-Annual Hospital Price Transparency Compliance Report shows that just 16% of the 2,000 hospitals reviewed are complying with a rule, indicating that progress on hospital's compliance with federal law has slowed dramatically. PatientRightsAdvocate.org's previously released two reports, one in February 2022 (one year after rule) which showed 14.6% compliance, and one in July 2021 (six months after rule) which showed 5.6% compliance.

"Unfortunately, after nearly 20 months of the Hospital Price Transparency Rule being in effect, the compliance rate has stalled, with only marginal improvement to 16% compliance up from 14.3% in our previous report," said Cynthia Fisher, Founder and Chairman of PatientsRightsAdvocate.org. "The quickest way to substantially improve compliance is through monetary fines which work, as our report shows."

The new analysis of 2,000 hospitals across the United States found:

Only 319 (16.0%) were complying with the rule.

101 hospitals (5.1%) did not post any standard charges file and were in total noncompliance.

None (0%) of the hospitals owned by two of the largest hospital systems in the country  HCA Healthcare and Ascension Health  are complying.

45 of 111 (40.5%) CommonSpirit Health hospitals, the second largest hospital system in the country, are now compliant up from just 1 of 88 (1.14%) hospitals in the February 2022 report.

Earlier this summer, Fisher was featured on NBC Nightly News discussing the previous report. After the segment aired the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued fines for two hospitals with no pricing files. According to the report, both hospitals are now in full compliance and have exemplary files posted on their websites.

"It's alarming to see that progress on compliance with federal law on transparency has ground nearly to a stop," said Fisher. "With enforcement, fines, and transparent hospital accountability we will see the power shift to healthcare consumers and employers to lower costs. In this report we have outlined more than 100 hospitals that HHS could fine today based on criteria applied to the two hospitals they've previously fined. That is a great place to start."

You can view the full PatientRightsAdvocate.org transparency report here .

SOURCE Patient Rights Advocate
OREM, Utah, August 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Clyde Companies rolled out a new company-wide vision statement this week: The most respected partner in our industry for another 100 years.

The previous vision statement, become the premier provider of construction materials and services in the Intermountain West and Great Plains, served the company well as it expanded operations from its humble beginnings in 1926.

Jeremy Hafen, President of Clyde Companies, introduces a new vision statement for the company, aimed at building upon the successes of the last century: The most respected partner in our industry for another 100 years. Clyde Companies employs nearly 5,000 employees across the Intermountain West and Great Plains regions.

Now, after nearly a century in the business, Clyde Companies is focused on maintaining its respected status in each of the industries where it maintains a presence including construction, building materials, land development, and insurance.

With an upcoming centennial celebration slated to begin in 2026, Clyde Companies' leadership began to reflect on where the company has been and where it wants to be in the future. After thriving in business for nearly 100 years, the new vision statement both celebrates and demonstrates that the company won't be slowing down any time soon.

Over time, Clyde Companies has steadily grown and evolved into a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate consisting of eight subsidiaries: WW Clyde, Geneva Rock, IHC Scott, Sunroc, Sunpro, Bridgesource, GWC Capital, and Beehive Insurance. The company's footprint is larger than ever  with projects spanning across the entire Intermountain West and Great Plains regions.

As Clyde Companies has expanded into new markets, it has held true to its business practices and values: "We Value People," "Our Word is Our Bond," "Always Give a Full Measure," and "We Continuously Improve."

These values have helped Clyde Companies become a respected contractor and partner in every project, no matter the size. Being committed to growth while also giving back to the communities in which its employees reside and work have also helped the business flourish.

Throughout the years, Clyde Companies has become a leader in innovation, sustainability, and technology. The company knows its past and has a vision focused on the future. Over the past century, a solid reputation has been created that will only continue to increase for another 100 years, helping Clyde Companies fulfill its mission of Building a Better Community better than ever before.

Media Contact: Julie Warnick

Marketing & Communications Director

801-802-6963; [email protected]

SOURCE CLYDE COMPANIES, INC.
SANTA ANA, Calif., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Broadstone Atlas, developed by Alliance Residential and managed by Greystar, has applied for LEED Gold Certification for the newly completed 483-unit apartment home community which includes several green features.

A common area in Broadstone Atlas.

"We are always looking at ways to develop projects that meet the needs of our residents while also being mindful of our environment," Jonas Bronk - Managing Director at Alliance Residential said. "We worked with Architect Orange, Hendy Interior Design and MJS landscape architects to incorporate several green features into this new community to ensure that Broadstone Atlas provides a modern, vibrant lifestyle while also being environmentally-conscious and energy-efficient."

Among Broadstone Atlas' green features include:

A Life Source Water Filtration System that provides filtered water to every home.

Water efficient plumbing fixtures including WaterSense certified toilets, showerheads, and lavatory faucets for indoor water savings.

A high-efficiency irrigation system with native and/or adapted plant selections for outdoor water savings; and a cool roof that reflects heat away from the building.

High-efficiency mechanical equipment that results in lower energy usage and higher indoor air quality.

Building materials such as paint, flooring, adhesives, and sealants that contain low or zero VOC content.

Onsite open space to promote a balanced lifestyle and encourage outdoor activities.

Additionally, the community is located within a half mile of community resources and transit stops to reduce the need for a car.

Broadstone Atlas has studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units as well as penthouse floorplans. Penthouses have a driven snow color scheme and herringbone flooring. Every apartment home includes a wine fridge and Dwelo smart home connectivity, which provides keyless and fobless entry to homes and amenities.

The Kings Canyon Podcast Studio for all residents to use, meditation studio, office space for multiple people with mini-trailer coffee bar and the Channel Islands pool headlines the community amenities. Additionally, Broadstone Atlas' Joshua Tree clubroom has a 220-inch TV and a fourth-floor deck with views of Tustin and custom murals  one by Carly Ealey and the other by Sasha Seyb.

The community is located less than 10 minutes from John Wayne Airport and 20 minutes from Disneyland and Newport Beach with easy freeway access. The Tustin Legacy shopping center is minutes away with restaurants, a movie theater and other shops. Directly across from Broadstone Atlas is the Tustin Legacy Park and Mess Hall.

For more information, or to book a tour, please visit www.broadstoneatlas.com or call 949-996-0051.

About Alliance Residential Company

Alliance Residential Company is one of the largest and most active rental residential real estate developers in the United States. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona with 19 regional offices, Alliance is focused on the development, construction, and acquisition of residential communities across 17 states and 33 metropolitan markets. Alliance develops high-end Broadstone multifamily communities, Holden senior housing communities, and workforce housing properties through its Prose brand. To learn more visit www.allresco.com.

SOURCE Greystar
New patent is the fifth in the "machine learning" domain for provider of knowledge management platforms for competitive intelligence and market research insights

BOSTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Northern Light (www.northernlight.com), a provider of knowledge management platforms for competitive intelligence and market research insights, today announced it has been awarded a U.S. patent for automated generation of a company performance index created by automated analysis of publicly available information. For example, a bank's digital readiness could be assessed by analyzing publicly available websites and documents such as news stories about the bank. Other applications beyond banking include automated analysis of supplier risk, competitive performance, business strategy, and more.

This patent is Northern Light's fifth; it joins a portfolio of patents* the company holds in automated business analysis, text analytics, AI, and machine learning.

"Throughout its 25-year history, Northern Light has been a technology innovator," C. David Seuss, Northern Light's CEO, said. "Initially, our focus was on internet search technology. In recent years, because Northern Light works with clients to aggregate content from hundreds of research firms, we have focused on using the techniques of cognitive computing to automate content analysis of complex documents, such as research and news reports. The extension of this capability to include automatically generating a performance index was a natural evolution for our company."

Northern Light's new patent is entitled "Systems and Methods for Automatically Determining a Performance Index" (U.S. Patent No. 11,226,946); it was awarded to Northern Light by the U.S. Patent Office on Jan. 18, 2022.

Northern Light's innovation

Conventional computerized tools for semantic analysis process large bodies of documents to identify topics discussed in those documents. Yet currently available tools are unable to draw useful conclusions from the semantic analyses they perform. One field in which such conclusions are useful is the strategic and competitive analysis of companies, whether competitors, acquisition targets, or otherwise. Such analyses are currently performed manually by analysts who research and review publicly available information about companies of interest and make determinations based on that information. The analysis is time- and labor-intensive, inconsistent between analysts and over time, prone to human error, and ultimately subjective, being greatly affected by the individual analyst's own perceptions and abilities. The resulting study is often costly and may overlook evidence that is available but not responsive to the analyst's manual processes.

Northern Light's patented innovation eliminates the human subjectivity that often clouds such analyses. Once set up, it can be performed instantly for one subject company or hundreds of subject companies, thus saving organizations performing such work considerable time and money. For example, in one test with a client, Northern Light's method saved 99% of the professional labor required to determine a set of banks' digital readiness and produced more comprehensive and consistent results compared to the prior manual methods employed.

Northern Light delivers its automatic company performance index generation capability commercially through its SinglePoint offering. SinglePoint is a SaaS-based enterprise knowledge management platform that seamlessly integrates and enables full-text search of an organization's complete research resources to create an invaluable market and competitive intelligence portal.

About Northern Light

Northern Light has been providing knowledge management platforms for competitive intelligence and market research insights to global enterprises since 1996. Northern Light's current clients include Fortune 1000 leaders across multiple industries such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, and life sciences. Northern Light has over 250,000 users of its strategic research portals. Headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, Northern Light repeatedly has been recognized as one of KMWorld's "AI 50"  the companies empowering intelligent knowledge management  and is a charter member of the Center for Complex Systems and Enterprises at the Stevens Institute of Technology.

* Northern Light's previous patents include:

Method and systems for automatically generating reports from search results

System and methods for analyzing document coverage

System and method for quote-based search summaries

Method and apparatus for extracting meaning from documents using a meaning taxonomy comprising syntactic structures

Media Contact:

David Domeshek

(508) 873-7068

[email protected]

SOURCE Northern Light
HEIDELBERG, Germany, and CAMBRIDGE, MA, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Novaliq, a biopharmaceutical company focusing on first- and best-in-class ocular therapeutics based on the unique EyeSol water-free technology, today announced the submission of a New Drug Application (NDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seeking approval for CyclASol (cyclosporine ophthalmic solution), a proposed novel treatment for the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED).







CyclASol has demonstrated in two pivotal studies fast onset of therapeutic effect in the indication, clinical meaningful improvement of ocular surface damage, and excellent tolerability. Results from a 12-month long-term study confirmed that the effects are maintained, and even improved for most sign and symptom endpoints.

"This is the first submission of a novel product category of water-free topical drug therapies utilizing EyeSol as a drug carrier", said Christian Roesky, Ph.D., CEO, Novaliq. "CyclASol is a first-of-a-kind drug therapy and aims to expand treatment success for patients with dry eye disease and their eye care professionals. If approved by the FDA, CyclASol addresses important unmet medical needs in DED through its ocular surface healing effect combined with high comfort of administration."

Dry eye is one of the most common ocular surface disorders, with approximately 18 million Americans diagnosed with DED.1,2 Inflammation and immunologic processes play a key role in the pathology of the disease.

A compromised ocular surface secondary to DED may also compromise refractive measurements before keratorefractive and phacorefractive surgeries and adversely impact expected visual outcomes after these surgeries.3,4 The impact of the corneal surface damage secondary to DED on visual function is an underestimated aspect of the disease. Multiple guidelines recommend treatment of the corneal surface damage prior to ocular procedures. A high unmet need remains for better tolerated drugs with an early onset of therapeutic effect, which are compelling to be used and prescribed.5,6

"We are very proud to see another product rapidly moving to the market, which marks yet another important inflection point and milestone in Novaliq's growth trajectory", said Dr. Mathias Hothum, board member and managing director of dievini. "We are currently evaluating the commercialization strategies which includes talking to interested parties."

About CyclASol

CyclASol is a first-of-a-kind topical treatment of cyclosporine, a potent anti-inflammatory and selective immunomodulatory drug. Whilst not water-soluble, cyclosporine is soluble in the EyeSol excipient perfluorobutylpentane allowing for its improved bioavailability and better efficacy on the target tissue. The product contains no oils, no surfactants and is preservative-free due to the novel carrier. This provides additional clinical benefits for patients, such as improved tolerability and decreased visual disturbances.

The NDA is supported by safety and efficacy results in over 1,000 patients with DED from a Phase 2 dose finding study, the Phase 2b/3 ESSENCE-1 study, the Phase 3 ESSENCE-2 study and its open label extension study.7,8

CyclASol has demonstrated in two independent adequate and well-controlled, multicenter studies (ESSENCE-1 and ESSENCE-2) clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvements in the indication.

Effects on the ocular surface include a statistically significant reduction in total corneal fluorescein staining (tCFS) score favoring CyclASol in both studies at Days 15 and 29. Up to 71.6% of patients responded within four weeks with a clinically meaningful improvement of  3 grades in total corneal staining. This proportion of responders was significantly higher compared to vehicle-treated patients in both studies. Responders showed also statistically significant improvements in a variety of symptoms compared to non-responders at day 29. The ASCRS guidelines recognize corneal staining as the single most important clinical sign of DED as it indicates the level of epithelial damage and visual impairment, and if left undertreated, DED can become chronic and more difficult to treat.3

Effect on tear production : In both studies, compared to vehicle at the end of treatment, there was a statistically significant (p<0.05) higher percentage of patients with increases of  10 mm from baseline in Schirmer's tear test score at Day 85 and Day 29, respectively, confirming a known effect of the active ingredient cyclosporine. Meeting this endpoint in two independent studies is clinically meaningful on its own and considered to demonstrate efficacy for the treatment of signs and symptoms of DED.

H ead-to-head data versus Restasis from the phase 2 study suggest that CyclASol has a stronger and faster therapeutic effect on the ocular surface.8

Maintenance of effect results from the long-term study CYS-005 confirmed that the effect of CyclASol was maintained, and even improved for most endpoints, over the 52-week treatment period.

Safety and Tolerability : Tolerability of CyclASol was shown by high drop comfort patient ratings in both studies. The most common adverse reaction observed was instillation site reactions, which was reported in 8.1% of patients in the pooled studies. These were in all but one case mild. The only other adverse reaction reported in > 2% of the patients was visual acuity reduced (2.7%).

About Novaliq

Novaliq is a biopharmaceutical company focusing on the development and commercialization of first- and best-in-class ocular therapeutics based on EyeSol, the worldwide first water-free technology.

EyeSol is Novaliq's proprietary water-free technology using ultrapure semifluorinated alkanes (SFAs) that are physically, chemically, and physiologically inert with excellent biocompatibility and a very good safety profile. Novaliq offers an industry-leading portfolio addressing today's unmet medical needs of millions of patients with eye diseases.

In July 2022 submission of a New Drug Application (NDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was announced seeking approval for NOV03 (perfluorohexyloctane), for the proposed indication of treating the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) associated with Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). In addition to CyclASol, the company continues to progress multiple additional pipeline opportunities based on its validated EyeSol platform, both in ophthalmology and adjacent indications like dermatology.

Novaliq GmbH is headquartered in Heidelberg, Germany and Novaliq Inc. has an office in Cambridge, MA, USA. The long-term shareholder is dievini Hopp BioTech holding GmbH & Co. KG, an active investor in Life and Health Sciences companies. More on www.novaliq.com.

Recommended Readings

Leonardi A, Modugno RL, & Salami E. Allergy and Dry Eye Disease. Ocular immunology and inflammation. 2021; 29:11681176 2020 Dry Eye Products Market Report: A global Analysis for 2019 to 2025. Market Scope Starr CE, Gupta PK, Farid M, Beckman KA, Chan CC, Yeu E, Gomes JAP, Ayers BD, Berdahl JP, Holland EJ, Kim T, Mah FS (the ASCRS Cornea Clinical Committee). An algorithm for the preoperative diagnosis and treatment of ocular surface disorders. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2019; 45:669684 Donaldson K, Parkhurst G, Saenz B, Whitley W, Williamson B, Hovanesian J. Call to action: treating dry eye disease and setting the foundation for successful surgery. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2022; 48:623629 White DE, Zhao Y, Ogundele A, Fulcher N, Acs A, Moore-Schiltz L, Karpecki PM. Real-World Treatment Patterns Of Cyclosporine Ophthalmic Emulsion And Lifitegrast Ophthalmic Solution Among Patients With Dry Eye. Clin Ophthalmol. 2019; 13:2285-2292 Dunn JD, Karpecki PM, Meske ME, Reissman D. Evolving knowledge of the unmet needs in dry eye disease. Am J Manag Care. 2021; 27:S23-32 Sheppard JD, Wirta DL, McLaurin E, Boehmer BE, Ciolino CB, Meides AS, Schluter T, Ousler GW, Usner D, Krosser S. A Water-free 0.1% Cyclosporine A Solution for Treatment of Dry Eye Disease: Results of the Randomized Phase II/III ESSENCE Study. Cornea. 2021; 40:1290-1297 Wirta DL, Torkildsen GL, Moreira HR, Lonsdale JD, Ciolino JB, Jentsch G, Beckert M, Ousler GM, Steven P, Krosser S. A Clinical Phase II Study to Assess Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of Waterfree Cyclosporine Formulation for Treatment of Dry Eye Disease. Ophthalmology. 2019; 126:793-800

Any product/brand names and/or logos are trademarks of the respective owners.  2022 Novaliq GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany.

Novaliq Media Contact:

Simone Angstmann-Mehr

[email protected]

+49 6221 50259-0

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1804666/Novaliq_GmbH_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Novaliq GmbH
Article addresses role of advocacy in advancing healthy vision to meet Sustainable Development Goals

DALLAS, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation (Foundation) is pleased to announce the publication of a peer-reviewed article, The Power of Advocacy: Advancing Vision for Everyone to Meet the Sustainable Development Goals in the International Journal of Public Health, an independent society journal of the Swiss School of Public Health.

OneSight Essilor Luxottica Foundation logo (PRNewsfoto/Vision Impact Institute)

The article was written by members of the Vision Impact Institute, which recently joined the Foundation. It explores the case for advocacy in advancing good vision globally, while making a clear connection to many of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It builds on a critical review of bibliography and proposes new perspectives for vision advocacy to achieve significant policy change.

"Evidence-based advocacy is essential to make good vision a global priority," says Eva Lazuka-Nicoulaud, the article's lead author and Head, Advocacy & Partnerships, Europe/Africa, at the Foundation. "In this article, we develop the connection between good vision and more than half of the SDGs."

"With 1 in 3 people unable to see clearly, we must collectively advocate for solutions to address this issue," says Prof. Kovin Naidoo, Global Head, Advocacy and Partnerships, OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation. "Aligning with the UN Resolution on Vision: Vision for Everyone: accelerating action to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, we define a new outlook for the framework and key pillars of advocacy to scale up success by 2030. We propose that addressing poor vision globally can improve poverty, hunger, education, gender equity, economic growth, climate action and more."

The article's complete author list includes: Prof. Kovin Naidoo, Eva Lazuka-Nicoulaud, Kristan Gross, Judith Marcano Williams and Andrea Kirsten-Coleman, all recently having joined the Foundation.

About the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation

The OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation (formerly Essilor Social Impact) is a French registered charitable organization (endowment fund) reflecting the commitment and values of EssilorLuxottica to eliminate uncorrected poor vision in a generation. It was rebranded in 2022 to bring together EssilorLuxottica's philanthropic, advocacy actions and investments including: Vision for Life, Essilor Vision Foundations in North America, India, Southeast Asia and China, Fondazione Salmoiraghi & Vigano in Italy as well as the Company's long term global partners OneSight and the Vision Impact Institute. It is headquartered at 147 rue de Paris, 94220 Charenton-Le-Pont, France. https://onesight.essilorluxottica.com/

Contact:

Jeff Wallace

Senior Director, Communications and Awareness

JWallace@OneSight.org

SOURCE Vision Impact Institute
GUANGZHOU, China, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Onion Global Limited ("Onion Global", the "Group" or the "Company") (NYSE: OG), a next-generation lifestyle brand platform that incubates, markets, and distributes the world's fresh, fashionable, and future brands to young people in China and across Asia, today reaffirmed that its LUCA brand portfolio strategy is committed to launching sustainable brands, and proudly introduces Merverte, a South Korean salon skincare brand, and Oceanfit, a New Zealand healthcare brand to its O'mall platform.

Mr. Cong (Kenny) Li, Founder, and CEO of Onion Global commented, "Our LUCA brand portfolio continues to focus on building emotional and personal connections with the younger generation. Through multiple years of data analytics and insights on the market and consumer demands, we found that a growing number of young people are suffering from joint pain such as cervical spondylosis and lumbar disc herniation due to long working hours in front of a computer and heavy use of smartphones. Given that, we established our cooperation with premium international sustainable brands, Merverte and Oceanfit, which use algae and other marine plants as their core ingredients to develop eco-friendly and functional products. For example, the patented MC-II extracted by Oceanfit supports joint mobility and comfort while encompassing environmental protection in meeting the real needs of younger consumers. The selection of Merverte and Oceanfit into our LUCA brand portfolio also demonstrates Onion Global's commitment to the sustainable development of society, while meeting the functional needs of consumers through its brand portfolio operations and management."

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the Company's beliefs and expectations, the Company's forecasts, general observation of the industry, and business outlook, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "may," "will," "expects," "anticipates," "target," "aim," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "potential," "estimates" "continue," "is/are likely to," or other similar statements. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Onion Global's filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of this press release, and Onion Global does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

About Onion Global Limited

Onion Global Limited (NYSE: OG) is a next-generation lifestyle brand platform that incubates, markets, and distributes the world's fresh, fashionable, and future brands, which we refer to as "3F brands," to young people in China and across Asia. The Company's mission is to be the dream factory of lifestyle brands for young people. The Company's platform offers an integrated solution to develop, market, and distribute new and inspiring branded products, thereby reshaping the lifestyle shopping and consumer culture in China. Onion Global Limited has been listed on New York Stock Exchange since May 2021.

For more information, please visit: http://ir.msyc.com/.

Investor Relations Contact

In China:

Onion Global Ltd.

Investor Relations

E-mail: [email protected]

Christensen

Mr. Eric Yuan

E-mail: [email protected]

Tel: +86-10-5900-1548

In the United States:

Christensen

Ms. Linda Bergkamp

E-mail: [email protected]

Tel: +1-480-614-3004

SOURCE Onion Global Limited
BAILEYS HARBOR, Wis., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Door County Broadband LLC (DCB) has announced the appointment of Jim Bertram as CEO and President. Former DCB owners, Kevin and Pam Voss, have retired from their positions with the company. Jim Bertram is also the owner of Bertram Communications (Bertram), a Wisconsin-based Internet Service Provider featuring a stable and consistent history of providing internet to rural areas. "The future is bright for Door County and Door County Broadband," says Jim Bertram, who has been visiting local communities over the last several months. "The internet as a whole has changed and we plan to be leading the pack in bringing fiber internet to residents and businesses throughout Door County."

Bertram plans to partner Door County Broadband with its other operations to leverage resources, which will bolster DCB's network and offer faster speeds and stability while also building out a fiber optic network in Door County. The DCB network will be completely reworked over the next six months to add capacity and further redundancy. DCB has already begun to move to a new management system and has added more employees to expand its customer service offerings.

Door County Broadband was founded in 2014 in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, after the purchase of a few local Internet Service Providers. DCB, like Bertram, has focused on providing wireless internet services in underserved areas such as Door County and northern Kewaunee County areas.

Bertram Communications was founded in 2005 in Random Lake, Wisconsin by local entrepreneur, Jim Bertram. Jim, an Adell native, was disappointed with the lack of reliable internet service in his community, so he decided to take matters into his own hands, and Bertram Internet was created. Bertram has over 400 transmission sites throughout the state of Wisconsin and has been very successful in working with the Public Service Commission on large broadband grants throughout the state. Bertram has sister companies that provide internet services in other states throughout the country, in addition to manufacturing and software development businesses for the telecommunications industry.

Media Contact:

Tim Wright

920-868-9100

[email protected]

SOURCE Door County Broadband
Iconic Baked Goods Brand Wins Best Snack Cakes of 2022

ISLANDIA, N.Y., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Each year, PEOPLE's Food Awards shines a spotlight on the best and most delicious foods in the grocery store, and after careful consideration, the PEOPLE staffers have named Entenmann's Minis Sprinkled Iced Brownies the "Best Snack Cakes" of 2022.

People Food Awards 2022 Entenmann's Minis Sprinkled Iced Brownie

Featuring a fudgy cake topped with a layer of decadent fudge icing and fun, colorful sprinkles, Minis Sprinkled Iced Brownies were awarded by PEOPLE taste testers for being the perfect lunchbox dessert, ideal for easy snacking on-the-go. The brownies are the latest addition to the Entenmann's Minis product lineup, which consists of a delicious variety of baked goods known and loved by many, including pound cake, crumb cake, apple pie and more.

"We were ecstatic to find out that Entenmann's Minis were named a winner in the PEOPLE's Food Awards!" said Catherine Danielowich, Senior Brand Manager at Entenmann's. "We're always looking for big  and mini  ways to bring some fun to snack time at Entenmann's, and hope our fans love Minis Sprinkled Iced Brownies as much as we do."

With so many tasty products to choose from, Entenmann's Minis brings you snacking the way you want it. Perfectly sized and perfectly delicious, there's a Minis product for everyone!

Learn more about Entenmann's Minis and other winners at www.people.com/food-awards, and check out newsstands nationwide to see all of the PEOPLE's 2022 Food Awards winners in the July 4th 2022 PEOPLE print issue.

About Entenmann's Bakery

Entenmann's history dates back more than 120 years to 1898 when William Entenmann opened his first bakery in Brooklyn, New York. By the 1960s the company was selling delicious donuts throughout the New York metropolitan area; by the 1970s it began selling nationwide. Today, Entenmann's markets over 100 different baked goods in the U.S., producing more than one billion donuts annually  one of which is the #1-best-selling classic Entenmann's Rich Frosted Donut introduced in 1973.

About Bimbo Bakeries USA

Bimbo Bakeries USA (BBU) is a leader in the baking industry, known for its category leading brands, innovative products, freshness and quality. Our team of 20,000+ U.S. associates operates more than 50 manufacturing locations in the United States. Over 11,000 distribution routes deliver our leading brands such as Arnold, Artesano, Ball Park, Bimbo, Boboli, Brownberry, Entenmann's, Little Bites, Marinela, Mrs Baird's, Oroweat, Sara Lee, Stroehmann and Thomas'. BBU is owned by Mexico's Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B de C.V., the world's largest baking company with operations in 33 countries.

SOURCE Entenmann's Minis
Beijing Central Axis to compete for world cultural heritage status

Xinhua) 15:42, August 09, 2022

BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities have planned to recommend the Beijing Central Axis as China's 2024 world cultural heritage application project, according to the National Cultural Heritage Administration.

Li Qun, director of the administration, noted that Beijing considers this task as a starting point to promote the overall protection of the old city and cultural relics in the core area of the national capital.

The Beijing Central Axis is 7.8 kilometers long, starting from the Yongding Gate in the south of the city and ending with the Drum Tower and Bell Tower in the north. Most of the major old-city buildings of Beijing are along this axis.

Speaking at the 2022 "Dialogue on Conservation of World Heritage and Historic Cities" held in Beijing on Aug. 7, Lazare Eloundou Assomo, director of the UNESCO World Heritage Center, said that Beijing alone, as the home of many exceptional sites, boasts seven sites inscribed on the World Heritage List and most of them are located in the historic center of the city.

The majority of experts at the conference agreed that granting heritage status to the Beijing Central Axis can add a fresh footnote to the history of world civilization.

The central axis is the backbone of old Beijing, representing the highest achievement in the planning, design and construction of an ancient capital of Eastern civilization.

The Beijing municipal government started preparation works of the world cultural heritage application for the Central Axis project in 2011. It was included in the preliminary list of China's world cultural heritage in 2012.

In recent years, more than 100 cultural relics renovation projects have been launched on both sides of the Beijing Central Axis.

Lv Zhou, director of the National Heritage Center of Tsinghua University, said that Beijing Central Axis' heritage protection covers all kinds of historical and cultural relics in the old city area of Beijing, representing a grand narrative of the Chinese civilization.

(Web editor: Liang Jun, Bianji)
Fort Polk, LA (71446)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this evening becoming more widespread overnight. Low 74F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms this evening becoming more widespread overnight. Low 74F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
CARPINTERIA, Calif., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- PlanMember Financial Corporation is pleased to announce the opening of their newest Financial Center, CWM Financial Group in Pittsburgh, PA. The new Financial Center is managed by Jack Conway, who has been a securities-licensed financial services professional for 27 years. CWM Financial's team of nine financial professionals offer holistic financial planning, including retirement planning, tax planning and estate planning, to educators, employer groups and individual investors throughout the area.

Conway Wealth Management was founded in 2015 by Jack Conway with a mission to make a positive difference in the overall financial lives of their clients. "Our team of financial professionals helps people at every stage of their lives," says Mr. Conway. "We want to help our clients retire with dignity and help them plan all the way through their retirement." To learn more about Conway Wealth Management, go to www.planmember.com/cwm.

PlanMember announces the opening of their 42nd Financial Center Tweet this

PlanMember, with more than $17 billion in assets, specializes in the 403(b), 457(b) and 401(k) marketplace. To date, PlanMember has established 42 Financial Centers in 24 states, with a goal of expanding to 80 Financial Centers nationwide.

"We're very excited to partner with Jack," says Jon Ziehl, President and CEO of PlanMember. "and the affiliation with CWM Financial supports PlanMember's continuing efforts to extend our Financial Center business model across the United States."

About PlanMember: For more than three decades PlanMember Financial Corporation, through its operating subsidiaries, has provided personalized retirement planning and administrative services to public and private sector employers and employees utilizing a broad selection of investment programs. The company is headquartered in Carpinteria, CA.

Securities and advisory services are offered through PlanMember Securities Corporation (PSEC), a registered broker/dealer, investment advisor and member FINRA/SIPC. CWM Financial and PlanMember Securities Corporation are independently owned and operated companies.

SOURCE PlanMember Securities
Summit to provide attendees with the latest sustainable approaches and ideas to support going back to school with Promethean solutions

SEATTLE, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Promethean , a leading global education technology company, is hosting the Tech & Admin Summit on Thursday, August 18, 2022, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. EDT, to showcase how technology can better serve administrators, IT personnel, and schools regardless of the learning environments they are supporting.

The summit's keynote speaker, Ramsey Musallam, is a secondary science instructor at Sonoma Academy in Santa Rosa, California, and an adjunct professor of education at Sonoma State University and Concordia University. He develops and implements live and virtual inquiry-based STEM workshops for students and organizations across the country. His featured keynote will focus on using technology as a strategic classroom partner in designing learning environments grounded in inquiry fueled by student curiosity. The summit's featured speaker, Marlo Gaddis, is the chief technology officer for the Wake County Public School System. Her session will examine how to become a great digital leader by empowering others and supporting the learning, safety, and wellness of school staff, students, and parents.

For school administrators, the summit will explore the effective use of the Promethean ActivPanel, including edtech strategies, professional development resources, classroom tips and tricks, and shared successes to help throughout the school year. Attendees will gain a better understanding of what success can look like as they evaluate technology in their classrooms. For IT leaders, Promethean's field sales engineers will lead high-level sessions focused on the planning stages of Promethean technology implementation, managing devices, and sustainable support of these devices. These technical experts will also discuss how Promethean supports IT customers throughout the implementation journey. For more information on sessions and to register for the Tech & Admin Summit, click here .

About Promethean

Promethean is a leading education technology company working to transform the way the world learns and collaborates. From our founding in Blackburn, England, more than 25 years ago to our global operations in 22 countries today, we've continued to explore, innovate, and inspiredesigning learning and collaboration tools that are built for breakthroughs. Our award-winning interactive display, ActivPanel, and lesson delivery software, ActivInspire and ClassFlow, were designed to engage students, connect colleagues, and bring out the brilliance in everyone. With headquarters in Seattle, Washington, and offices worldwide, Promethean is a subsidiary of the NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited (HKSE: 0777) group of companies. Visit us at PrometheanWorld.com .

2022 Promethean. All Rights Reserved. Promethean, the Promethean logo, ActivPanel, ActivSync, ActivInspire, ActivConnect, ActivSound, ClassFlow, and Vellum are trademarks or registered trademarks of Promethean Limited in the United Kingdom, United States, and other countries around the world. All other product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Unless specifically identified as such, Promethean's use of third-party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship, or endorsement between Promethean and the owners of these trademarks.

SOURCE Promethean
Addition of digital asset management to PureCars' platform enhances capability and efficiency in deploying offers and creative, across a wide range of advertising channels.

ATLANTA, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- PureCars, a leading provider of digital marketing technology and services for automotive dealers, announced today its acquisition of digital asset management platform, AutoSigma. PureCars is backed by Diversis Capital Partners and Stage 1 Ventures.

By combining AutoSigma's digital asset platform with PureCars' marketing technology, vehicle advertising can be deployed across multiple ad channels with more speed, accuracy and efficiency. The integration of the two platforms gives dealerships and agencies the ability to easily manage and update vehicle offers and build OEM-compliant ads. These assets are also syndicated across a wide variety of channels, including the dealer's website, email templates, Google Business posts, Google Ads, and Meta paid advertising. In addition, the platform can dynamically update offers, ensuring all advertising is current and consistent.

"AutoSigma solves the biggest pain points for dealers in getting vehicle offers to market," said Stephane Ferri, CEO at PureCars. "Speed to market has historically been a challenge, as dealers await and react to OEM program announcements. With AutoSigma, our dealers will be in market in unprecedented time. We're excited to welcome Matthew Strunk and the AutoSigma team to PureCars."

The automation AutoSigma provides not only saves time and reduces the manual effort required to prepare dealer advertising assets, but it also eliminates costly errors by ensuring consistency and accuracy in dealer advertising.

"Combining our asset management platform with PureCars' extensive MarTech capabilities will be a game changer for dealers. They will get to market faster and achieve even greater success with their marketing efforts," said Matthew Strunk, founder of AutoSigma. "We couldn't be happier about being a part of this industry-leading organization."

Diversis Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Kevin Ma, said, "We're confident AutoSigma will be a great complement to the advertising technology at PureCars. With vehicle inventory levels expected to rebound in the coming months, the ability to expedite the process of getting vehicle ads created and in-market quickly will be a huge competitive advantage for PureCars' clients."

About PureCars

Since 2007, PureCars has helped thousands of dealers improve their advertising effectiveness, while lowering ad costs per unit sold and per repair order. Through our unique combination of advanced advertising solutions, digital merchandising and market analytics, we provide dealers and partners with best-in-class solutions that increase efficiency and profitability. We are a certified digital provider for 16 OEMs in the U.S. and 1 in Canada, compliant with 40+ brands and serve 65 of the top 100 dealer groups in North America. To learn more, please visit http://www.purecars.com .

About Diversis Capital

Founded in 2013, Diversis is a software and technology focused private equity fund with over $1 billion in assets under management that invests in lower middle-market companies, targeting situations where it can add unique value in helping a company reach the next level. With a collaborative approach to investing, its Operating Partners and Strategic Advisors work alongside management teams to help build successful organizations positioned for long-term growth. To learn more, please visit http://www.diversis.com .

About Stage 1 Ventures, LLC

Stage 1 Ventures, LLC was founded in 2005 and has invested over $200M in 22 late-stage growth companies. Stage 1 does a combination of primary and secondary investing as well as seed investing. Stage 1 looks for high growth companies that are led by passionate entrepreneurs in ag-tech, cloud, mobile, auto, consumer and enterprise software spaces.

SOURCE PureCars
Appointment made by Kevin J. Carey, Independent Manager, as Stila looks ahead to brand reinvigoration and strategic growth in collaboration with business partners

NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Stila Cosmetics announced today that an independent manager has been appointed to help guide the company and it has hired renowned industry executive and strategist Michelle Kluz as Chief Executive Officer.

Kevin J. Carey, Senior Counsel in Hogan Lovells' Corporate and Finance practice group, will serve as manager of Stila Styles, LLC and will be responsible to guide Stila leadership to set a course that will be in the best interest of its highly valued employees, business partners and customers. Carey brings extensive experience in corporate matters with a reputation for achieving outcomes trusted by all parties.

"Michelle brings to Stila a track record that includes leading an established $1B global retailer, building and scaling a business from the ground up, and reinvigorating an iconic fitness brand. Michelle has effectively repositioned a company by building a multi-unit franchise model, driving the annual budget process, establishing operational excellence and ultimately delivering a successful majority sale," Carey said. "Michelle has all the savvy and requisite skills to take Stila to a very bright future."

In recent years, Kluz has been a successful entrepreneur and independent advisor. Her experience includes helping to scale AWH (Ascend Wellness Holdings, a leading multi-state cannabis operator) as interim CEO of Retail. In 2018, she served as interim CEO of Tough Mudder Bootcamps upon the founder's exit, turning it into a successful franchise. Michelle was previously the CEO of Pure Barre, the world's largest barre brand, as well as CEO of BBRC in Sydney, Australia, a $1B conglomerate of six brands in accessories, intimate apparel and home goods. In 2017, she founded Urban Savage, a global luxury activewear brand.

"Stila's innovative yet approachable products and commitment to authenticity matches my passion for consumer-centric brands," said Kluz. "I am incredibly excited and energized to work with the exceptional employees at Stila, as well as the company's business partners, to ensure we continue to inspire and deliver sophisticated and accessible products to our loyal customer base, expanding our reach, including through key retailer partnerships." Kluz added, "With Kevin's impeccable credentials and sterling reputation, I know he will help guide me and Stila leadership to set a course that will be in the best interest of its highly valued employees, business partners and customers."

About Stila Cosmetics:

Stila Cosmetics, founded in 1994, is a globally recognized color cosmetics brand known for its modern, sophisticated, accessible approach to beauty. The brand's innovative, multi-tasking formulas, eco-friendly packaging, and fashion forward colors are available in over 1000 doors in the United States, which includes Sephora, ULTA Beauty, select Nordstrom, and select Macy's. Stila is also available in more than 20 global markets including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, India, Southeast Asia, Brazil, and Mexico. For more information about Stila, visit www.stilacosmetics.com .

Media Inquiries Contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE Stila
Manufactured Home Rental Company Expands with New Site

RIVERVIEW, Fla., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ERC Communities 1, Inc. is extremely proud to announce the acquisition of its second site in suburban Tampa. The additional site is adjacent to its current 60-unit site, now bringing its development to 118 rental units. The approximate total development cost is $23 million and annual gross rental revenues are projected at approximately $2.5 million. Finalization of construction financing for all the land development and preparation for delivery of homes are on track to commence mid-August. ERC Communities has plans to expand rapidly in Florida and the Southeast United States.

ERC Communities ERC Chairman, Gerald "Jerry" Ellenburg

ERC is meeting an extremely high market demand for affordable housing. "In today's highly competitive housing market, millions of Americans are priced out of buying a home, often competing with all-cash offers well above asking prices. Rents are skyrocketing, too, causing overall housing affordability to collapse at its fastest rate on record," According to a recent PBS article .

The Tampa Bay Business Journal recently featured ERC Communities Chairman, Jerry Ellenburg in an article titled "Built-to-rent single family communities take off in Tampa Bay ." Ashley Kritzer provided an overview of the benefits. "Think of these developments as combining the best attributes of multifamily and single-family home communities: They offer investors and developers the efficiency of managing a multifamily property, and tenants are offered the extra space and amenities that they would find in a for-sale, single-family home community."

About ERC Communities:

ERC was founded as a pioneer build-to-rent (B2R) real estate development company wholesaling mini-neighborhoods of affordable single-family homes. Led by senior executive experience of over 100 combined years and $1 billion in real estate, construction, asset management, and finance experience, the company is at the forefront of the emerging B2R boom. Using innovative internet crowd financing via Reg A offerings, ERC will offer investors the opportunity to invest in B2R homes. ERC plans to satisfy the pent-up demand of institutional investors for new rental housing, while meeting the need of millennials and others for single-family living without the hurdles of home ownership. The company will initially build in Florida, later expanding to other Southeastern states. For more information join our webinar or visit https://rega.erccommunities.com/ .

Media Contact:

Theo Prodromitis

Out Front Brands

813.906.9910

[email protected]

SOURCE ERC Communities
DUBLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Research Report on Vietnam's Cement Industry 2022-2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

In 2021, Vietnam's GDP increased by 2.58%, reached 3626.19 billion USD. Considering the spread of COVID-19 in 2020-2021, the annual GDP growth rate of 2.58% is already a good figure in the world. Vietnam's economy has been increasing rapidly for many years, but wages of the manufacturing are still at a low level, which were less than 50% in China and far below that of the developed countries in 2021.



Vietnam cement and clinker production volume reached 101.22 million tons in 2021, an increased 1.1% YOY.



According to the analysis, compared to China or other developed countries, low labor cost is one of the key advantages of the Vietnam cement industry. Besides, Vietnam possesses rich ore resources, which are raw materials of cement. The production cost of cement is mainly influenced by coal price.



Construction of infrastructure and the booming property industry contributed to increasing domestic consumption of cement in Vietnam in recent years. Several large infrastructure projects are also underway. However, urbanization rate of Vietnam is still very low, only less than 40.4% by the end of 2021, which means the consumption of cement is not currently at the peak.



Cement designed capacity in Vietnam is expected to surge in the next three to five years thanks to aggressive expansion of local manufacturers including Tan Thang, Vissai, and Xuan Thanh. In conclusion, Vietnam is expected to face with continuous supply surplus before reaching equilibrium. In other words, export volume of cement is estimated to keep rising in the future.



According to the analysis, Vietnam's cement production will maintain growth from 2022 to 2031. The drivers of rising cement production volume in Vietnam include (1) the rising demand for cement in the domestic market with the development of Vietnam's real estate industry and infrastructure (2) the export volume will also grow year by year due to the low-price level of cement in Vietnam.



Key Topics Covered:



1 Development Environment of Vietnam Cement Industry

1.1 Economic Environment

1.1.1 Vietnam's Economy

1.1.2 Minimum Wage Standard in Vietnam

1.2 Policy Environment

1.2.1 Preferential Policies on Foreign Investment

1.2.2 Policies Related to Imports and Exports

1.3 The impact of COVID-19 on Vietnam's cement industry



2 Analysis on Market Status of Vietnam Cement Industry

2.1 Supply of Vietnam Cement Industry

2.1.1 Output of Vietnam Cement Industry

2.1.2 Capacity of Vietnam Cement Industry

2.2 Production Cost of Vietnam Cement Industry

2.2.1 Raw Material Cost

2.2.2 Electricity Cost

2.2.3 Coal Cost

2.2.4 Human Resources Cost

2.3 Demand on Cement in Vietnam

2.3.1 Consumption of Cement in Vietnam

2.3.2 Infrastructure

2.3.3 Real Estate



3 Analysis on Import and Export of Cement

3.1 Overview of Cement Imports and Exports in Vietnam

3.2 Major Export Destinations of Vietnam Cement



4 Major Cement Manufacturers in Vietnam

4.1 Vietnam Cement Industry Corporation

4.2 The Vissai Cement Group

4.3 Xuan Thanh Cement Joint Stock Company

4.4 Nghi Son Cement Corporation (NSCC)

4.5 Luks Group (Vietnam Holdings) Co. LTD.

4.6 Tan Thang Cement Joint Stock Company



5 Prospect of Cement Industry in Vietnam

5.1 Factors influencing Vietnam Cement Industry

5.1.1 Market Driving Force and Opportunities

5.1.2 Threats and Challenges

5.2 Forecast on Production and Export of Vietnam Cement, 2022-2031

5.2.1 Forecast on Production

5.2.2 Forecast on Demand

5.2.3 Forecast on Export



Companies Mentioned

Vietnam Cement Industry Corporation

The Vissai Cement Group

Xuan Thanh Cement Joint Stock Company

Nghi Son Cement Corporation (NSCC)

Luks Group (Vietnam Holdings) Co. LTD.

Tan Thang Cement Joint Stock Company

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/eanelr

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
DUBLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Research Report on Vietnam's Steel Industry 2022-2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

In 2021, the growth rate of Vietnam's GDP is 2.6%. Vietnam's economy has been increasing rapidly for many years, but wages of manufacturing are still at a low level, which were less than 50% in China and far below that of the developed countries in 2021.



According to the analysis, as Vietnam's economy develops and the living standards of residents rise, the demand for steel in the industries such as construction, automobiles and home appliances is also going up. The rapid development of steel demand has attracted many steel enterprises to build new steel capacity in Vietnam.



As the COVID-19 epidemic in Vietnam has been effectively controlled, the steel industry in Vietnam will not be greatly affected in 2020. Overall, Vietnam's steel industry is still growing, and homemade steel cannot meet the needs of the domestic market.



According to the analysis, in 2021, the production volume of crude steel in Vietnam reached 26.15 million tons, representing a CAGR of 32.7% from 2013 to 2021.



Based on the analyst's analysis, seeing the huge potential of the steel market in Vietnam and even Southeast Asia, many enterprises have invested in Vietnam's steel industry in recent years. The largest investment case is Formosa Ha Tinh Steel Corporation (FHS), which is a joint venture by Formosa Plastic Group, China Steel Corporation and Japan's JFE Holdings, with a first-phase investment of more than USD 10 billion.



Due to the rapid increase in production capacity of the steel industry in recent years, the supply of some types of steel in Vietnam has exceeded the demand, including concrete iron or steel for construction, cold-rolled steel coil products, etc. In order to reduce large quantities of imports such as hot-rolled steel coils and electromagnetic steel sheets, the Vietnam government is actively attracting foreign investors to establish positions in the country.



At present, the Vietnamese government has not formulated nationwide policies for foreign investment in the steel industry. However, steel companies have been set up in many industrial parks in Vietnam, which are granted with preferential policies in taxation and other aspects.



In addition, as Vietnam's manufacturing and construction industries develop rapidly, the demand for steel will continue to increase. It is estimated that, during 2022-2031, Vietnam's roads, airports and other infrastructure, housing construction, automobile, home appliances and other industries will all maintain a high growth rate.



On the whole, most domestic steel manufacturers are extremely low in production capacity (no more than 1 million tons a year), with outdated equipment. Foreign-funded enterprises have seen great market prospects in investing in the steel industry of Vietnam, especially to establish one-stop businesses from the production of crude steel to the processing of various kinds of steel.



For one thing, these steel enterprises can market in Vietnam. For another, they can export products to the Southeast Asian market with a total population of nearly 700 million, and even to the Asia-Pacific market with a population of more than 2 billion.



The analyst reports that the Vietnam steel market will become one of the fastest growing markets in the world from 2022 to 2031. Meanwhile, the CAGR of the production volume of crude steel is projected to exceed 15%. By 2024, Vietnam will become a net exporter of steel.

Key Topics Covered:



1 Development Environment of Vietnam Steel Industry



2 Market Status of Vietnam Steel Industry, 2015-2021



3 Analysis on Import and Export of Steel in Vietnam, 2015-2021

4 Major Steel Manufacturers in Vietnam, 2019-2021



5 Prospect of Vietnam Steel Market, 2022-2031



Companies Mentioned

HOA PHAT Steel

HOA SEN Group

VIET NAM Steel Corporation

Steel Corporation SMC Steel Company Limited

VSC - Posco Steel Corporation (VPS)

Formosa Ha Tinh Steel Corporation (FHS)

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/358pce

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
PORTER, Texas, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ruthmann Reachmaster announces the expansion of its team with additions, and an executive appointment. Congratulations to Mr. Tom Goyer, and welcome to Mr. Robin Paeper and Ms. Samantha Ayala-Linan.

Tom Goyer Appointed to Vice President

With decades of experience in the aerial equipment industry, Mr. Goyer has been with Ruthmann Reachmaster since 2018. Ebbe Christensen, President, said, "In addition to Tom's extensive experience in sales of truck mounted aerial equipment, this appointment will leverage his operational and management experience as we grow." Mr. Goyer is looking forward to the challenge. "The whole industry has faced global supply chain & logistical issues. We have met these challenges with growing sales. This has emphasized the need for management structure in order to be able to react quickly to market changes." Since 2020, Mr. Goyer has held the role of Vice President of truck-mounted sales. "I look forward to becoming a more integrated part of daily management efforts."

Robin Paeper Hired as Western Region & National Account Manager

The company welcomes Mr. Robin Paeper. "Robin will operate out of Los Angeles expanding our activities in the region, as well as servicing our national accounts. He brings immense industry experience from a long career as manager for national rental companies," says Christensen. Mr. Paeper stated, "I am excited to join the Ruthmann Reachmaster team, whom I have known for many years. Our combined vision for the future includes the growth of regional and national activities, this represents a great opportunity to promote the company's range of specialty aerial equipment and glass manipulators." Mr. Christensen added, "We have sales coverage on the west coast through Wirant Sales, however adding Robin to further lead these efforts reflects our focus on getting closer to our customer."

Samantha Ayala-Linan Hired as Sales & Marketing Coordinator

We would also like to welcome Ms. Samantha Ayala-Linan, who will begin in her new role at Ruthmann Reachmaster at the Porter, Texas headquarters. She will also serve as a liaison for the company's growing activities in Mexico.

Hiring Sales & Service associates

The company has experienced profitable growth as the result of the merger between Ruthmann NA and Reachmaster, Inc., and by becoming part of Time Manufacturing Company. By strengthening infrastructure and teams as we continue to hire, the company is well positioned to meet demand while providing personal and professional service.

Ebbe Christensen, President  [email protected]

Ruthmann Reachmaster - a leading North American supplier of truck-mounted aerial lifts, compact aerials, and material handling equipment. As a Time Manufacturing Company, the firm offers a premium range of equipment and has a rich history of providing customers with innovative access solutions.

SOURCE Time Manufacturing Company
BETHESDA, Md., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SANS Institute, the global leader in cybersecurity training and certifications, today announced it would be opening a new SANS Cyber Workforce Academy for Maryland residents. There are nearly 700,000 cybersecurity jobs unfilled across the United States. Local Maryland jobseekers with little to no cybersecurity experience can quickly gain these in-demand skills to launch a new career in just months by applying to the SANS Cyber Workforce Academy. The program is state-funded through the EARN MD grant and provides free accelerated training and globally recognized certifications in the fastest-growing industry in the US today, cybersecurity.

"The Maryland Department of Labor is pleased to support the SANS Cyber Workforce Academy through our EARN Maryland program," said Tiffany P. Robinson, Maryland Secretary of Labor. "The students enrolled in this program are earning in-demand, industry-recognized certifications that will help Maryland employers remain competitive in today's marketplace."

"SANS is committed to the economic growth of the Maryland community," said Max Shuftan, Director of Mission Programs & Partnerships at SANS. "With an average program graduate salary of $90,000, there has never been a better time to learn the industry and enter the workforce as a cybersecurity professional."



Two separate tracks are available, Reskilling and Upskilling, with both options open to Maryland residents only. The Reskilling Academy is recommended for individuals not currently working in cybersecurity. The Upskilling Academy is recommended for individuals with IT experience or limited cybersecurity skills to upskill into an in-demand position. Each track provides self-paced training with support from technical mentors and their cohorts, forming lifelong connections as they work through the material together.



Academy career services support aims to have participants interview and land a job before or by the time they have taken their last GIAC certification. Interested candidates should complete the web application form here .

About SANS Institute

The SANS Institute was established in 1989 as a cooperative research and education organization. Today, SANS is the most trusted and, by far, the largest provider of cybersecurity training and certification to professionals in government and commercial institutions world-wide. Renowned SANS instructors teach more than 60 courses at in-person and virtual cybersecurity events and on demand. GIAC, an affiliate of the SANS Institute, validates practitioner skills through more than 35 hands-on, technical certifications in cybersecurity . The SANS Technology Institute , a regionally accredited independent subsidiary, offers master's and bachelor's degrees, graduate certificates, and an undergraduate certificate in cybersecurity. SANS Security Awareness , a division of SANS, provides organizations with a complete and comprehensive security awareness solution, enabling them to manage their "human" cybersecurity risk easily and effectively. SANS also delivers a wide variety of free resources to the InfoSec community including consensus projects, research reports, webcasts, podcasts, and newsletters; it also operates the Internet's early warning systemthe Internet Storm Center. At the heart of SANS are the many security practitioners, representing varied global organizations from corporations to universities, working together to support and educate the global information security community. www.sans.org

SOURCE SANS Institute
SL-1002 is also being concurrently studied for the treatment of limb spasticity in the Phase 2 RAISE Trial  topline data for both studies (pain and spasticity) is expected in 2023

ROSWELL, Ga. and DUBLIN and HAMILTON, Bermuda, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Saol Therapeutics, a privately held, clinical-stage pharmaceutical company, announced today that the first patient has been enrolled in the company's Phase 2 COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial.

SL-1002 is a novel, proprietary chemoneurolytic injection currently under development at Saol Therapeutics and is being evaluated in the COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial. The trial is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single ascending-dose escalation study to assess the safety and efficacy of SL-1002 for the treatment of knee pain associated with osteoarthritis in adult patients (NCT05470608). The first patient in the trial was enrolled at the International Spine, Pain and Performance Center in Washington, D.C.

"Our center is proud to enroll the first patient in Saol Therapeutics' COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial," said Investigator Mehul J. Desai, MD, President of the International Spine, Pain & Performance Center in Washington, DC. "Pain related to osteoarthritis of the knee is a condition that impacts millions of Americans, and while we have current approved treatments, there is a significant opportunity to improve on how we treat this population. We're excited to partner with Saol Therapeutics and the rest of the investigators around the United States in evaluating the potential of SL-1002."

Efficacy and safety are the two primary endpoints in the study. The efficacy of SL-1002 will be assessed in comparison to placebo in its ability to reduce the average pain intensity at 3 months (12 weeks). The safety of SL-1002 will be assessed throughout the study in comparison to placebo when used for the treatment of knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. Additional secondary measures include improvements in function, concomitant medication and healthcare utilization.

"We are very enthusiastic to be partnering with Saol Therapeutics to investigate the use of SL-1002 in the COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial," said Principal Investigator Zachary McCormick, MD, Vice Chair and Associate Professor of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Utah. "There have been significant recent advancements in our understanding of the neuroanatomy of the knee with implications for enhancing the non-operative treatment of chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis. While treatments have improved in the past decade, there remains a need for additional safe and more effective options that can be delivered in an efficient and patient-friendly way."

"The COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial marks another step in our commitment to develop innovative therapies for patients and the clinicians that treat them," said Saol Therapeutics CEO David Penake.

In addition to the COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial, Saol Therapeutics recently announced that the first patient was enrolled in the RAISE Spasticity Trial (NCT05311215), evaluating the safety, pharmacokinetic and efficacy profile of SL-1002 in adult patients with limb spasticity. Enrollment has advanced through completion of the first patient cohort.

"SL-1002 is a very exciting program. Along with our announcement today that we have commenced enrollment in the COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial, in parallel we are rapidly enrolling patients in the RAISE Spasticity Trial," added Penake. "Beyond these two indications under investigation, our physician collaborators continue to stress to us that the characteristics of this novel agent may have broad applicability in multiple potential use cases. With the committed partnership of these thought leading collaborators, and the efforts of the Saol team, we plan to complete these studies and evaluate further indications as we approach our pivotal programs in spasticity and osteoarthritis knee pain."

Saol Therapeutics currently expects topline results of both the COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial and the RAISE Spasticity Trial to readout in 2023.

About COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial

The COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-COntrolled, single-ascending dose escalation study to assess the safety and efficacy of SL-1002 injectable for treatMent of PAin aSSociated with OsteoArthritis of the knee.

Saol began enrolling patients in the COMPASS Osteoarthritis Pain Trial in the 3rd Quarter of 2022. (NCT05470608).

About RAISE Spasticity Trial

The RAISE Spasticity trial is a Randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled, single AscendIng dose escalation study to assess the Safety, Pharmacokinetics and Efficacy of SL-1002 in adult patients with limb spasticity. (NCT05311215).

The primary endpoint is the overall safety profile of a single treatment exposure of SL-1002 in comparison to placebo. Secondary endpoints include, but are not limited to, measures such as the Modified Ashworth Score (MAS), Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGI-C) and the Tardieu scale. Additional secondary measures include the characterization of the human pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics relating to metabolism and clearance of SL-1002 and its metabolites.

About SL-1002

SL-1002 is a novel, proprietary chemoneurolytic injection currently under investigation for the treatment of limb spasticity and in pain related to osteoarthritis of the knee in adults (18+) in the United States.

About Saol Therapeutics

Saol Therapeutics (pronounced "Sail") is a privately held, clinical-stage, pharmaceutical company with operations in Roswell, GA, Dublin, Ireland and Hamilton, Bermuda. Saol is focused on development activity in CNS disorders such as spasticity and pain management, and orphan diseases. Saol is committed to providing and advancing therapeutic options for patients and the physicians treating these populations. For more information, visit www.saolrx.com.

SOURCE Saol Therapeutics
Through its combined forces, Sartorius and Albumedix will accelerate the availability of critical components for the manufacture of advanced therapies and next-generation biopharmaceuticals, globally.

The Albumedix Campus in Nottingham, UK will be established as a bio-innovation and cGMP-compliant manufacturing Centre of Excellence in Sartorius.

Life science group Sartorius will acquire all outstanding shares in Albumedix Ltd. for approx. 415 million.

NOTTINGHAM, England, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Albumedix Ltd. (Albumedix), a recognized leader in recombinant human albumin-based solutions, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by life science group Sartorius, an international leader in laboratory and bioprocessing technologies for the biopharmaceutical industry. Through this acquisition, Albumedix and Sartorius expand their solution space with complementary technologies and synergetic competencies, to deliver science-enabled solutions for the entire advanced therapy value chain.

Sartorius to acquire Albumedix, creating a powerhouse for innovative advanced therapy solutions.

With a recombinant human albumin heritage stretching close to four decades, Albumedix has worked alongside its life science partners, to innovate and help enable the availability of numerous safer and more stable pharmaceutical products. The company will continue to be led by Albumedix' CEO Jonas S. Mller and its Executive Management team, who remain dedicated to servicing the life science industry.

The acquisition confirms a general market shift towards fully defined and high-quality solutions for the manufacturing of advanced therapy products, in which recombinant human albumin is an essential component. Albumedix will become part of the Bioprocess Solutions Division within Sartorius, with the growing Albumedix Campus in Nottingham, UK being established as a centre of excellence in Sartorius dedicated to bio-innovation and GMP-compliant manufacturing of critical raw materials. Sartorius will look to rapidly invest in the expansion of Albumedix' innovation capacities and proprietary recombinant protein production platform.

"We are delighted to be joining forces with Sartorius and look forward to accelerating our ambitious growth plans in delivering critical solutions to our global customers. We have been highly impressed with Sartorius' knowledge and capabilities in the bioprocessing markets, and we are excited to join this purposeful journey. We believe Sartorius will bring tremendous value by strengthening our market reach and broadening our innovation capacity, as well as significantly scaling up our existing platform. We look forward to continuing our promise of empowering excellence in the life science industry," said Jonas S. Mller, CEO of Albumedix.

"Albumedix will be an important addition to Sartorius' advanced therapy solutions, particularly regarding our cell culture media business, as it will enable us to strengthen our position as a relevant supplier of innovative chemically defined media and critical ancillary materials. This market offers high growth potential due to the increasing regulatory requirements as well as rising demand for the use of recombinant human albumin in near-patient applications. Albumedix will also add important formulation excipients to our vaccine production solutions, allowing us to expand our existing customer relationships and forge new ones," said Rene Faber, member of the Executive Board for the Bioprocess Solutions Division of Sartorius.

Under the terms of the agreement, Sartorius, through its French listed subgroup Sartorius Stedim Biotech, will acquire all outstanding shares of Albumedix Ltd. for an agreed purchase price of approximately 415 million. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close before the end of the third quarter of 2022.

William Blair acted as financial advisor to Albumedix, and Eversheds Sutherland provided legal counsel. Milbank LLP provided legal counsel to Sartorius in this transaction.

About Albumedix

Albumedix is a science-driven company and recognized leader of best-in-class albumin-enabled solutions. Established in the UK in 1984, with a mission to empower excellence, Albumedix has supported its life-science partners to deliver hundreds of million safe doses of clinical and marketed therapeutics, globally. Albumedix' solutions include the world's only USP-NF compliant recombinant human albumin (Recombumin), client-centric development and compliance services and drug-enhancing technologies (Veltis). By always striving for more and collaboratively challenging status quo, Albumedix enables the development and commercialisation of advanced therapies and next-generation biopharmaceuticals to the benefit of people worldwide.

About Sartorius

The Sartorius Group is a leading international partner of life science research and the biopharmaceutical industry. With innovative laboratory instruments and consumables, the Group's Lab Products & Services Division concentrates on serving the needs of laboratories performing research and quality control at pharma and biopharma companies and those of academic research institutes. The Bioprocess Solutions Division with its broad product portfolio focusing on single-use solutions helps customers to manufacture biotech medications and vaccines safely and efficiently. The Group has been annually growing by double digits on average and has been regularly expanding its portfolio by acquisitions of complementary technologies. In fiscal 2021, the company earned sales revenue of some 3.45 billion euros. At the end of 2021, nearly 14,000 people were employed at the Group's approximately 60 manufacturing and sales sites, serving customers around the globe.

Follow Albumedix on Twitter @Albumedix and on LinkedIn.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1874412/Albumedix_Sartorius.jpg

SOURCE Albumedix Ltd.
Donald Scarinci Takes Worklife Balance Commitment to Next Level for Firm Employees with Move to Overlook Corporate Center

LYNDHURST, N.J., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Scarinci Hollenbeck has announced that as of Tuesday, September 6, 2022, it will be fully operational out of its new office located on the 9th floor of the amenities-rich Overlook Corporate Center in Little Falls, NJ.

Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC

150 Clove Road

9th Floor

Little Falls, NJ

Scarinci Hollenbeck has announced that as of Tuesday, September 6, 2022, it will be fully operational out of its new office located on the 9th floor of the amenities-rich Overlook Corporate Center in Little Falls, NJ.

The Overlook Corporate Center (the Overlook) is designated as a Class A office space after its recent multi-million-dollar upgrades. The property, regarded as one of the most premier office spaces in North Jersey, boasts a variety of premium amenities including a full-service cafeteria, a fitness center, a yoga studio, EV charging stations, access to lush terraces, and more. The interior includes a 360-degree view of the surrounding New Jersey landscape and NYC skyline while providing staff and visitors with an abundance of natural light. In addition, the Overlook sits in the middle of three major routes, providing easy access to all Northern points of New Jersey, Manhattan, and Newark International Airport.

"Our work-life balance committee spent considerable time searching for a space that complements our quality-of-life agenda. Our attorneys have the option to work from home. However, if they chose to be in the office, we wanted it to be in a place that creates an environment for a productive day. The Overlook Corporate Center is just that," stated Ronald Reisner, J.S.C. (Ret.), Chair of Scarinci Hollenbeck's Work-Life Balance Committee.

Work-life balance is a key component of Scarinci Hollenbeck's firm culture. The combination of premium amenities and a central office location is a major factor in the firm's expansion and commitment to effectively serving its clients.

"Clients are demanding both quality and value," stated Donald Scarinci. "Prioritizing work-life balance and using the many amenities that 150 Clove Road offers our employees creates a more pleasant and more productive workplace that will enhance the client experience that our clients have come to expect," he continued.

Please be advised that there will be no disruption of service. Scarinci Hollenbeck's contact information, such as email addresses and phone numbers, will remain the same. For any questions regarding the move, contact the attorney with whom you work, or call us at 201-896-4100.

About Scarinci Hollenbeck

With a growing practice of more than 60 experienced attorneys, Scarinci Hollenbeck is a regional alternative to a National 250 law firm. We serve the niche practice areas most often required by the owners and leaders of corporations. We offer a full range of services and have developed our business law practice with the expertise and specialization necessary to serve our clients as they adapt to the shifting economic landscape.

More information on our firm's expertise and range of practice can be found on our website: www.sh-law.com .

Contact: Peter Moeller

Telephone: 201-896-4100

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Scarinci Hollenbeck, LLC
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ShardSecure, inventor of the innovative MicroshardTM technology that mitigates data security and privacy risks in the cloud, will be exhibiting at Black Hat 2022, the leading information security event, from August 6 to 11 in Las Vegas, Nevada. While at Black Hat, ShardSecure will showcase their patented microsharding solution at Booth #30 in the Business Hall's Innovation City.

During the conference, ShardSecure will demonstrate how microsharding renders sensitive data unintelligible in the wrong hands, offering crucial protection in multi-cloud and hybrid-cloud environments. ShardSecure Lead Developer Anthony Whitehead will present "Microsharding, an Alternative to Encryption for Data at Rest" from 2:25 to 2:45 p.m. PT on August 10 in the Business Hall, Theater C. Additionally, VP of Marketing Marc Blackmer will be interviewed on microsharding and encryption by Chuck Harold of SecurityGuyTV at 9:20 a.m. PT on August 11.

"We're looking forward to making new connections and sharing how we can help organizations strengthen their data resilience, maintain business continuity, and mitigate the impact of ransomware," said Marc Blackmer. "Black Hat is an excellent opportunity for ShardSecure to participate in key industry conversations, strengthen our brand, and grow our networking opportunities."

Microshard technology works to desensitize sensitive data by digitally shredding it into tiny microshards. Those microshards are then mixed with poison data and distributed to multiple customer-owned storage locations of the customer's choosing. Its self-healing data also reverses unauthorized data deletion and tampering  including ransomware  for data at rest.

Through its ability to reconstruct data impacted by storage service outages, ShardSecure also helps protect against the effects of data loss and allows business operations to continue unaffected during an outage.

"We're pleased to be sharing Microshard technology with a wide audience of thought leaders and vendors at Black Hat," said Bob Lam, CEO and Co-Founder of ShardSecure. "Combined with several new partnerships and our recent availability in Azure Marketplace, Black Hat is allowing us to reach more organizations with our innovative data security and data resilience solution. We look forward to continuing the discussion about how we can help organizations maintain control of their sensitive data in the cloud while protecting it from outages and attacks."

About Black Hat

Now in its 25th year, Black Hat USA is a leading cybersecurity event. With trainings, briefings, and virtual and in-person events, Black Hat 2022 will present the latest research, development, and trends in the information security industry.

About ShardSecure

ShardSecure is changing the nature of data security. It believes that all organizations can easily and securely enjoy the benefits of cloud adoption without surrendering control of their data. Inventors of the patented Microshard technology, ShardSecure cloud-enables sensitive data by desensitizing it in multi-cloud and hybrid-cloud environments.

For more information about this coverage or about ShardSecure, please contact our media relations team at [email protected].

SOURCE ShardSecure
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Tupperware Brands Corporation ("Tupperware" or the "Company") (NYSE: TUP) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, and docketed under 22-cv-04976, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Tupperware securities between November 3, 2021 and May 3, 2022, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants' violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its top officials.

If you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired Tupperware securities during the Class Period, you have until August 15, 2022 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

Tupperware operates as a consumer products company worldwide. The Company manufactures, markets, and sells design-centric preparation, storage, and serving solutions for the kitchen and home, as well as a line of cookware, knives, microwave products, microfiber textiles, water-filtration related items, and an array of products for on-the-go consumers under the Tupperware brand name.

The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Tupperware was facing significant challenges in maintaining its earnings and sales performance; (ii) accordingly, Tupperware's full year 2022 guidance was unrealistic and/or unsustainable; (iii) all the foregoing, once revealed, was likely to have a material negative impact on Tupperware's financial condition; and (iv) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

On May 4, 2022, Tupperware announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2022. Among other items, Tupperware reported adjusted earnings per share from continuing operations and net sales that fell well short of consensus estimates and withdrew its full year 2022 guidance and named a new Chief Financial Officer. The Company attributed the poor performance to the conflict in Russia and Ukraine. However, when pressed by analysts on a conference call, the Company acknowledged that Russia and Ukraine only accounted for 2% of its revenue.

On this news, Tupperware's stock price fell $5.76 per share, or 32.16%, to close at $12.15 per share on May 4, 2022.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Wells Fargo & Company ("Wells Fargo" or the "Company") (NYSE: WFC) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, and docketed under 22-cv-03811, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Wells Fargo common stock between February 24, 2021 and June 9, 2022, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants' violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its top officials.

If you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired Wells Fargo common stock during the Class Period, you have until August 29, 2022 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

Wells Fargo is a diversified financial services company that provides banking, investment, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance products and services in the U.S. and internationally.

In 2020, Wells Fargo expanded its so-called "Diverse Search Requirement", also referred to as a diverse slate hiring policy, requiring that at least 50% of interview candidates must represent a historically underrepresented group with respect to at least one diversity dimension (including race/ethnicity, gender, LGBTQ, veterans, and people with disabilities) for most posted roles in the U.S. with total direct compensation greater than $100,000 per year. In addition, at least one interviewer on the hiring panel must represent a historically underrepresented group with respect to at least one diversity dimension.

The complaint alleges that, throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Wells Fargo had misrepresented its commitment to diversity in the Company's workplace; (ii) Wells Fargo conducted fake job interviews in order to meet its Diverse Search Requirement; (iii) the foregoing conduct subjected Wells Fargo to an increased risk of regulatory and/or governmental scrutiny and enforcement action, including criminal charges; (iv) all of the foregoing, once revealed, was likely to negatively impact Wells Fargo's reputation; and (v) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

On May 19, 2022, the New York Times published an article entitled "At Wells Fargo, a Quest to Increase Diversity Leads to Fake Job Interviews". Citing discussions with "seven current and former Wells Fargo employees", including Joe Bruno, a former executive in the Company's wealth management division, the article reported, in relevant part, that "[f]or many open positions, employees would interview a 'diverse' candidate", but that "often, the so-called diverse candidate would be interviewed for a job that had already been promised to someone else." The article further reported that Mr. Bruno was fired after "complain[ing] to his bosses" about the practice.

On this news, Wells Fargo's common stock price fell $0.44 per share, or 1.04%, over two trading sessions, closing at $41.67 per share on May 20, 2022.

On June 6, 2022, Reuters published an article entitled "Wells Fargo pauses diverse slate hiring policy after reports of fake job interviews." The article reported that "Wells Fargo . . . is pausing a hiring policy that requires recruiters to interview a diverse pool of candidates, after the New York Times reported such interviews were often fake and conducted even though the job had already been promised to someone else." The same article also reported that "[t]he bank also plans to conduct a review of its diverse slate guidelines, Chief Executive Officer Charles Scharf told staff on Monday, according to a memo seen by Reuters."

Then, on June 9, 2022, the New York Times published an article entitled "Federal Prosecutors Open Criminal Inquiry of Wells Fargo's Hiring Practices." The article reported that federal prosecutors are investigating whether Wells Fargo violated federal laws by conducting fake job interviews in order to meet the Company's Diverse Search Requirement. The article also revealed that, since the New York Times' May 19, 2022 article focusing on the bank's wealth management business, "another 10 current and former employees have shared stories about how they were subject to fake interviews, or conducted them, or saw paperwork documenting the practice", and that "sham interviews occurred across multiple business lines, including its mortgage servicing, home lending and retail banking operations."

That same day, Wells Fargo issued a press release entitled "Wells Fargo response to New York Times article", which confirmed that "[e]arlier this week, the [C]ompany temporarily paused the use of its diverse slate guidelines", and that, "[d]uring this pause, the [C]ompany is conducting a review so that hiring managers, senior leaders and recruiters fully understand how the guidelines should be implemented  and so we can have confidence that our guidelines live up to their promise."

Following these disclosures, Wells Fargo's common stock price fell $3.68 per share, or 8.62%, over the following two trading sessions, closing at $38.99 per share on June 13, 2022.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Carvana Co. ("Carvana" or the "Company") (NYSE: CVNA). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Carvana and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On June 24, 2022, after market hours, Barron's published an article entitled "Carvana Sought to Disrupt Auto Sales. It Delivered Undriveable Cars". The Barron's article reported that "[i]n its haste to seize market share from competitors, Carvana was selling cars faster than it could get them registered to their new owners", which resulted in numerous violations of law and regulations in a number of jurisdictions.

On this news, Carvana's stock price fell $6.78 per share, or 21%, over the following two trading sessions, to close at $24.74 per share on June 28, 2022.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Unilever PLC ("Unilever" or the "Company") (NYSE: UL). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Unilever and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

Unilever is a British multinational consumer goods company which sells more than 400 products in over 190 countries, including Ben & Jerry's ice cream, which they acquired in 2000. In an attempt to preserve Ben & Jerry's longstanding "Social Mission," Unilever's acquisition of Ben & Jerry's included allowing for an independent board of directors, which was given primary responsibility for preserving and enhancing the objectives of the company's Social Mission (the "B&J Board").

More than 20 years after the acquisition, Ben & Jerry's remains a wholly owned subsidiary of Unilever with an independent board addressing the company's Social Mission. Since the acquisition, the B&J Board continued its Social Mission by engaging in promotions and advocacy across a host of issues concerning the environment, voter turnout, fair trade, and genetically modified organisms. Today, the B&J Board, chaired by Anuradha Mittal ("Mittal"), consists primarily of social activists who joined long after Unilever's acquisition.

The B&J Board passed a resolution in July 2020 to end sales of Ben & Jerry's products in areas that the B&J Board considers to be Palestinian territories illegally occupied by Israel. According to Mittal, Ben & Jerry's CEO Matthew McCarthy ("McCarthy") chose not to "operationalize" the resolution immediately, thus temporarily thwarting the B&J Board's decision. During the morning of July 19, 2021, Unilever and its hand-picked CEO McCarthy "operationalized" the B&J Board's resolution to boycott Israel. Ben & Jerry's announced on its website and through its Twitter account that, upon the expiration of the current licensing agreement by which its products had been distributed in Israel for decades, Ben & Jerry's would end sales of its ice cream in "Occupied Palestinian Territory", but Ben & Jerry's would purportedly continue to sell its products in Israel.

The decision by the B&J Board appeared to arise out of the boycott, divestment, and sanctions ("BDS") movement. The BDS movement is a pro-Palestinian movement promoting boycotts, divestments, and economic sanctions against Israel. The BDS movement's objective is to coerce Israel into making concessions to the Palestinians by using boycotts and the like to exert economic and political pressure. Additionally, and of particular significance here, 35 U.S. states have adopted laws, executive orders, or resolutions aimed at discouraging boycotts, divestment, and sanctions of Israel ("Anti-BDS Legislation").

During the morning of July 22, 2021, CNBC reported that the states of Texas and Florida were examining Ben & Jerry's actions in connection with the states' Anti-BDS Legislation. In addition to condemnation of Ben & Jerry's boycott by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, CNBC reported that Texas State Comptroller Glenn Hegar, who controls billions of dollars in assets for Texas' public pension funds, had already told his office to take action. Similarly, the state of Florida's CFO Jimmy Patronis ("Patronis"), who controls Florida's public pension funds, told CNBC that his office was already discussing the issue. In a letter reportedly sent to Ben & Jerry's CEO, Patronis wrote: "It is my belief that Ben & Jerry's brazen refusal to do business in Israel will result in your placement on the Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel List." The letter also stated that Florida would then "be prohibited from investing in Ben & Jerry's or its parent company, Unilever." Being added to the list also meant that Unilever would not be able to enter or renew contracts with the state or any municipality in Florida.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
- Timely Addition of M&A and Corporate Finance Expert Strengthens Board for Execution of Acquisition Based Business Plan and Preparing to meeting Listing Requirements

PHOENIX, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- SinglePoint, Inc. (OTCQB: SING) ("SinglePoint" or "the Company"), a renewable energy and sustainable solutions provider, announced today the appointment of Mr. James (Jim) Rulfs to the Board of Directors. Mr. Rulfs' 40-year business background includes experience in launching companies, working in mergers and acquisitions, and corporate finance.

Mr. Rulfs, a serial entrepreneur, currently serves as a principal member in CBC Partners, LLC, a privately funded lender that provides debt financing loans to high-growth commercial and industrial companies. CBC Partners, LLC is a commercial loan Company with ten years of experience in corporate finance. Mr. Rulfs also founded Liberty Pacific Capital LLC, a venture capital firm specializing in emerging technology companies, which later became the Forbes Private Capital Group, and is the founding principal of Seattle Venture Group. Mr. Rulfs holds a Series 82 securities license and a Bachelor of Science from Ohio University.

Jim Rulfs said, "I can think of few things that are more important to America now than reliable, renewable, and environmentally responsible energy. SinglePoint is exceptionally well positioned to provide solar energy solutions to families, businesses, and institutional customers. Also giving them a measure of independence from a struggling energy grid, both local and national. Equally important, as the cost of energy is skyrocketing in a struggling economy, SinglePoint and the solar platforms they can deploy will give economic and energy independence to clients for years to come. I'm honored to have the opportunity to work with the SinglePoint team."

Wil Ralston, CEO of SinglePoint, said, "We are very pleased to welcome Jim Rulfs to the Board of Directors of SinglePoint at a juncture when his deep experience in mergers and acquisitions and building companies will be used as we experience rapid growth. Jim's business acumen and business relationships offers real value as we ramp up our acquisition activity and expand our business footprint in the sustainable living market sector."

About SinglePoint Inc (OTCQB: SING

SinglePoint Inc. is a renewable energy and sustainable lifestyle company that provides environmentally friendly energy efficiencies and healthy living solutions. SinglePoint is initially focused on building the largest network of renewable energy solutions and modernizing the traditional solar and energy storage model. The Company is also actively exploring future growth opportunities in air purification, electric vehicle charging, solar as a subscription service, and additional energy efficiencies and appliances that enhance sustainability and healthier life. For more information, visit the Company's website ( www.singlepoint.com ) and connect on social media for the latest updates.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release may contain forward-looking information within Rule 175 under the Securities Act of 1933 and Rule 3b-6 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are subject to the safe harbor created by those rules. All statements, other than statements of fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding potential plans and objectives of the Company, the use of proceeds, anticipated growth, and future expansion, are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

Technical complications, which may arise, could prevent the prompt implementation of any strategically significant plan(s) outlined above. The Company undertakes no duty to revise or update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release.

Investor Contact:

Tra-Digital IR

[email protected]

(212) 389  9782 ext. 107

SOURCE SinglePoint Inc.
Intimacy Enabler Expands Existing Portfolio with Suite of New Options to Help Consumers Feel Everything

ISELIN, N.J., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading sexual wellness brand, SKYN, is bringing pleasure seekers nine new personal massagers to exploreCaress, Dual Ring, Tune, Arch, Bow, Wave, Rouse, Tremble and Charm. With a continued dedication to being the ultimate companion for every sexual journey, these latest offerings address the rising consumer demand for more diverse and dynamic toy options.

Joining a robust portfolio of lubricants, enhancers, #1 non-latex condoms, and its existing devicesVibes, Thrill and ShiverSKYN welcomes a new era of intimacy packed with fresh sensorial experiences. Each personal massager is crafted with distinct features and provides a unique opportunity to enhance pleasure:

Caress : Ultra-soft tulip-shaped tip mimics the feeling of oral stimulation, enhanced by a velvety soft silicone finish. This device's 10 audibly discreet vibrating modes are designed for all sensitivities. It is made to fit in the palm of the hand with an illuminated panel for use in the dark. And it's hypoallergenic, USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: $39.99 ).

: Ultra-soft tulip-shaped tip mimics the feeling of oral stimulation, enhanced by a velvety soft silicone finish. This device's 10 audibly discreet vibrating modes are designed for all sensitivities. It is made to fit in the palm of the hand with an illuminated panel for use in the dark. And it's hypoallergenic, USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: ). Dual Ring : Ideal for an enhanced experience with a partner, this device marries a finger vibrator and stimulating ring with an ultra-soft silicone finish for heightened sensation. Featuring 3 vibrating modes, it is compact yet powerful, and has an illuminated control panel. It is hypoallergenic, USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: $19.99 ).

: Ideal for an enhanced experience with a partner, this device marries a finger vibrator and stimulating ring with an ultra-soft silicone finish for heightened sensation. Featuring 3 vibrating modes, it is compact yet powerful, and has an illuminated control panel. It is hypoallergenic, USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: ). Tune : Miniature vibrating wand with a flexible head that concentrates powerful vibrations exactly where they're needed. Easy to clean with mild soap and water, this device is water resistant, and features 10 vibration patterns for maximum pleasure. Vibrations last up to 60 minutes on full charge. (MSRP: $28.99 ).

: Miniature vibrating wand with a flexible head that concentrates powerful vibrations exactly where they're needed. Easy to clean with mild soap and water, this device is water resistant, and features 10 vibration patterns for maximum pleasure. Vibrations last up to 60 minutes on full charge. (MSRP: ). Arch : A uniquely shaped G-spot vibrator with a curved, flexible head that provides endless opportunities for sensual satisfaction. Perfect for on-the-go usage, this device slips easily in a purse or pocket for discretion. Ultra-soft silicone finish is water resistant and easy to clean. (MSRP: $24.99 ).

: A uniquely shaped G-spot vibrator with a curved, flexible head that provides endless opportunities for sensual satisfaction. Perfect for on-the-go usage, this device slips easily in a purse or pocket for discretion. Ultra-soft silicone finish is water resistant and easy to clean. (MSRP: ). Bow : A curved vibrating massager featuring contoured textures. It is water resistant, with an easy-open, twist off design for quick battery insertion. This device offers 7 different vibration modes, lasting up to 50 minutes on full charge. Requires 2 AA batteries. (MSRP: $23.99 ).

: A curved vibrating massager featuring contoured textures. It is water resistant, with an easy-open, twist off design for quick battery insertion. This device offers 7 different vibration modes, lasting up to 50 minutes on full charge. Requires 2 AA batteries. (MSRP: ). Wave : Suitable for solo or partner play, this tongue-shaped flickering clitoral stimulator that fits in the palm of the hand gives intense waves of vibration. It features 10 different vibration patterns and an illuminated on/off switch for use in the dark. It is hypoallergenic, USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: $26.99 ).

: Suitable for solo or partner play, this tongue-shaped flickering clitoral stimulator that fits in the palm of the hand gives intense waves of vibration. It features 10 different vibration patterns and an illuminated on/off switch for use in the dark. It is hypoallergenic, USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: ). Rouse : Remote-controlled with 10 different vibration modes, this massager operates as a Kegel trainer. It features an ultra-soft silicone finish, is USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: $29.99 ).

: Remote-controlled with 10 different vibration modes, this massager operates as a Kegel trainer. It features an ultra-soft silicone finish, is USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: ). Tremble : A pocket-sized and portable massager that fits in the palm of the hand. It includes a remote control, perfect for partner play as well as 10 different vibrating modes. It is USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: $24.99 ).

: A pocket-sized and portable massager that fits in the palm of the hand. It includes a remote control, perfect for partner play as well as 10 different vibrating modes. It is USB rechargeable and water resistant. (MSRP: ). Charm (COMING SOON): A discreet, yet powerful finger massager featuring a ribbed texture for intense stimulation. Battery-powered, vibrations last up to 50 minutes with a full battery. (MSRP: $12.99 )

"At SKYN, we believe that the journey to pleasure is endless and ever evolving. We also believe that intimate experience is about more than just feeling good. It's about choice," says M'lou Walker, Chief Executive Officer of LifeStyles Healthcare. "We aim to offer our consumers as much choice as possible along their sexual journey. We see substantial opportunity to do this within the personal massage category, and we're excited to say that these nine new additions to the SKYN lineup are just the start of the expansion for us."

SKYN Caress, Dual Ring, Tune, Arch, Bow, Wave, Rouse, Tremble and Charm will be available for purchase on the SKYN brand website and from select retailers.

To learn more about SKYN, visit: www.SKYN.com . To connect with the brand and discover condom giveaways, sex tips, stats and more, join us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

About LifeStyles

LifeStyles Healthcare's history dates back to 1905 when Eric Ansell first started making condoms in Richmond, Australia. Today LifeStyles is a global leader in the sexual wellness sector, comprising a broad range of condoms, personal lubricants and other related products. LifeStyles Healthcare is the world's #2 condom company with leading latex brands such as LifeStyles, Jissbon, Manix, Unimil, Blowtex and others, as well as the fast-growing, highly-innovative non-latex condom brand SKYN. LifeStyles Healthcare was created on 1 September 2017 when the consortium of Humanwell Healthcare and CITIC Capital purchased the Sexual Wellness division from Ansell.

 and  are trademarks owned by LifeStyles Healthcare, Pte. Ltd.

SOURCE LifeStyles Healthcare
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Smartfluence, the leading SaaS influencer marketing platform, announced a seed round investment of $2.15 million led by PACA Ventures. Ira Lubert and Jo Webber, both principals at PACA Ventures, will be joining Smartfluence's board of directors.

Smartfluence, founded in 2018, is changing the way brands and social media influencers engage with each other by utilizing a quantitative analytical approach. Its platform enables brands to automate and scale their influencer marketing programs through its proprietary data-driven algorithms which enable brands to understand influencer audiences by providing metrics like audience credibility scores, brand and interest affinities, audience demographics, and estimated pricing. Its influencer discovery engine helps brands identify relevant influencers for their campaigns, customize and automate outreach in order to build and nurture influencer relationships, and utilize campaign results to refine search and double down on high-ROI relationships.

Smartfluence, the fastest growing SaaS influencer marketing platform, closes $2.15M Seed Round Led by PACA Ventures Tweet this

The funding will be used to accelerate customer expansion and enhance Smartfluence's proprietary influencer automation software  building integrated influencer relationship management and e-commerce platform support.

"Smartfluence being added to PACA Ventures' portfolio of innovative technology brands is a great honor as we continue the rapid growth of our SaaS influencer marketing platform," said David Ko, CEO & co-founder of Smartfluence. "Ira, Jo and the rest of team are the perfect partners as they have insight into the market segment and deep experience with visionary companies transforming in this space. With this funding round, we are in a position to further help customers automate influencer relationships and expand reach across all advertising channels at-scale."

Smartfluence is positioned as the leading player in key industries including luxury apparel, pets, and beauty & cosmetics. Smartfluence's customers range from e-commerce stores to enterprises looking to scale their influencer discovery.

"From our first meeting with Smartfluence, we were impressed with the company's innovation and leadership team, and knew we wanted to play a role at the ground floor of their acceleration," said Ira Lubert, PACA Ventures. "The social media influencer industry is exploding right now, and Smartfluence has a tremendous opportunity to meet brands' needs for a platform that scales influencer marketing programs."

For more information about Smartfluence, visit smartfluence.io and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About Smartfluence

Smartfluence is a creator discovery and management platform that enables brands to find the right influencers for their brand. Smartfluence's influencer analytics and predictive campaign statistics help brands automate their influencer marketing programs. For more information, visit smartfluence.io and schedule a demo.

About PACA Ventures

PACA Ventures partners with visionary founders to build exceptional high-growth tech companies from Seed through Series B. Bringing decades of experience to venture capital funding, management and tech company creation, PACA Ventures operates out of Philadelphia, PA and Los Angeles, CA.

Media Contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE Smartfluence
Snapology Continues to Invest in and Elevate the Leading STEAM Brand with Enhanced Retail-Style Concept

DALLAS, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Snapology, the No. 1 children's STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) franchise and part of the world's first Youth Enrichment franchise platform company Unleashed Brands, announced today it has opened its first Discovery Center 2.0 in Amarillo, TX, with a grand opening slated for August 20. The new center, which is nearly 2,500 square feet, is owned by Bobby and Kenna Payne, first-time franchise owners.

Snapology debuts new discovery center 2.0 model with opening of Amarillo, TX location.

Plans for the elevated Discovery Center model were announced earlier this year shortly after Unleashed Brands acquired Snapology, intending to build on the already strong name recognition of the brand. Now children and parents can experience first-hand the new retail-style concept with expanded curriculum and brand offerings that only a hands-on learning center can provide to kids. To engage children through STEAM activities such as coding, robotics, animation, play and interactive learning, the new center includes two separate classrooms and 17 creative play stations involving LEGO bricks, Minecraft, Virtual Reality, and more.

The new Discovery Center also offers a "Passport" membership program that will gamify the Snapology classes, creating incentives for children to learn fundamental STEAM skills, develop critical social skills and create recurring revenue for franchisees. Kids take classes to earn stamps on their Passport, which can be filled up to win swag and other prizes.

"The Discovery Center 2.0 marks the beginning of an exciting new era for the Snapology brand," said Laura Coe, Brand President & CEO for Snapology. "We want to keep pushing the envelope in STEAM education to help kids learn, play and grow. The upgraded features and programming of our new centers being opened by franchise partners are a reminder of why Snapology is a leading franchise in the youth enrichment space."

Snapology has experienced a strong first half of 2022 signing 24 franchise agreements, which will bring the brand to new markets including Tampa, FL; Toledo, OH; Tallahassee, FL; Cornelius, NC; Jacksonville, FL; Virginia Beach, VA; Perrysburg, OH; Apple Valley, MN; Denver, CO; Harrisonburg, VA; Cedar Park, TX; Lexington, SC; and Houston, TX.

Snapology encourages social skills and teamwork by teaching science, technology, engineering, art, math and literacy concepts in a fun way. The brand uses a research-based curriculum, designed to be inclusive to all learning abilities with a hands-on teaching approach that uses LEGO Bricks and other building toys, along with coding, video game design and robotics that encourages the perfect mix of play, academic enrichment and social development. The low-cost franchise opportunity is perfect for passionate entrepreneurs who want to impact children and provide enrichment programs for their communities.

About Snapology

Founded in 2010, Snapology is the #1 children's enrichment franchise in the country, giving children the opportunity to learn through play with more than 80 enriching, interactive STEAM and STEM programs. With over 180 locations in the U.S. and Internationally, Snapology is quickly growing and impacting children throughout the world with their balance of educational enrichment, social development and fun. For more information about Snapology including franchise opportunities, visit www.Snapology.com .

About Unleashed Brands

Unleashed Brands, currently includes portfolio brands Urban Air, Snapology, The Little Gym, XP League, Class 101 and Premier Martial Arts. and was founded to curate and grow a portfolio of the most innovative and profitable brands that help kids learn, play and grow. Over the last 10 years, the team at Unleashed Brands has built a proven platform and know-how for scaling businesses focused on serving families. Its mission is to impact the lives of every kid by providing fun, engaging and inspiring experiences that help them become who they are destined to be. For more information, please visit www.UnleashedBrands.com.

Media Contact: David Robertson, Fishman Public Relations, [email protected] or 847-945-1300

SOURCE Snapology
Rise in the cases of heart-related diseases globally is boosting the growth opportunities in the market

Increase in the adoption of technologically advanced procedures in North America fuels the growth in the regional market

WILMINGTON, Del., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a research report by Transparency Market Research (TMR), the global structural heart devices market is estimated to develop at a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period 2019 to 2027.

The TMR study sheds light on all key aspects influencing the growth trajectory of the structural heart devices market. Hence, readers gain access to many important factors such as the expansion opportunities, growth drivers, growth restraints, opportunities for future market demand for structural heart devices, and recent developments in the structural heart devices market.

Leading players in the structural heart devices market are increasing investments in R&Ds in order to develop technologically advanced products. Moreover, companies are using strategies such as new product launches and acquisitions in order to maintain their leading positions in the global structural heart devices market. These factors, in turn, are expected to help in the overall market growth in the forthcoming years.

The structural heart devices market in North America is projected to gain sizable avenues for growth during the forecast period owing to many factors including rise in R&Ds, new product launches, and the adoption of next-gen procedures in the regional healthcare sector.

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Structural Heart Devices Market: Key Findings

The popularity of structural heart devices technology is being increasing from the recent years with rise in the adoption of different non-invasive procedures for the treatment of mitral regurgitation and aortic stenosis. Moreover, there has been a surge in the R&D activities related to minimally-invasive heart valve technologies. Such advancements are allowing interventional cardiologists and cardio-thoracic surgeons to avoid critical side-effects associated with the traditional open heart surgeries, notes a TMR study on the global structural heart devices market.

Healthcare professionals are focusing on the adoption of technological advancements that can help in fulfilling the current unmet requirements of patients together with offering better prognosis and need for lesser times at hospitals. These factors are expected to drive the growth opportunities in structural heart devices market. Hence, the global market is estimated to be valued at US$ 8 Bn by the end of 2027.

by the end of 2027. Biological valves, or tissue engineered heart valves (TEHV), are gaining impetus in the healthcare industry in the recent years as they provide a latest and next-gen methodology of treatment for patients with the requirement of partial or complete valve replacement, states a TMR report on the structural heart devices market. Over the period of past few years, the adoption of transcatheter tissue valves is being increasing globally. This factor is prognosticated to create notable growth prospects for structural heart devices market during the forecast period.

The adoption of innovative technologies such as interventional catheter technologies is being rising in the recent years. This factor is propelling the global structural heart devices market. Moreover, the market is being driven by various factors including the healthcare reforms, collaborations amongst interventionists, cardiologists, & surgeons, and rise in the adoption of hybrid procedures in the healthcare industry.

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Structural Heart Devices Market: Growth Boosters

Surge in the prevalence of cardiac arrest, stroke, and heart failure across the globe is creating sizable sales prospects in the structural heart devices market

Growing inclination among people toward the adoption of minimally invasive procedures is leading to revenue-generation opportunities in the market

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Structural Heart Devices Market: Key Players

Some of the key players profiled in the report are:

Abbott Laboratories

Medtronic

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Boston Scientific Corporation

Lepu Medical

LivaNova plc

Lifetech Scientific

Micro Interventional Devices, Inc.

NeovasCryoLife, Inc.

Structural Heart Devices Market Segmentation

Product

Biological/Tissue Valves

Transcatheter Heart Valves



Surgical Heart Valves

Mechanical Heart Valves

Annuloplasty Rings

Occluders

Accessories

Procedure

Replacement Procedures

Repair Procedures

Indication

Valve Stenosis

Valve Regurgitation

Cardiomyopathy

Congenital Heart Defects

Others

Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East and Africa

and Latin America

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SOURCE Transparency Market Research
Applies AI-Enabled Automation to Improve Access to Inpatient & Surgical Care

NEENAH, Wis., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- ThedaCare is a health system dedicated to reinventing health care and advancing its mission of improving the health and well-being of communities served. Because of the strong alignment with how the organization envisions the future of health care, ThedaCare announced it has invested $3M in Qventus. It is joining other investors in a $50 million growth investment in the provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered software for care operations automation.

ThedaCare is committed to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves in Northeast and Central Wisconsin. The organization delivers care to more than 600,000 residents in 17 counties and employs approximately 7,000 health care professionals. ThedaCare has 180 points of care, including eight hospitals. As an organization committed to being a leader in Population Health, team members are dedicated to empowering people to live their unique, best lives.

ThedaCare is also applying the technology to drive operational efficiencies in inpatient and perioperative care settings and across its organization.

Investing in Automation

Through the investment, ThedaCare will collaborate with Qventus to develop new solutions and innovations, as well as support Qventus in expanding its technology to additional hospitals and health systems across the United States.

"Care operations automation solutions can help relieve some of the prime operational and financial pressures facing hospitals and health systems," said Mark Thompson, ThedaCare Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. "As ThedaCare continues our commitment to reinventing health care, partnerships like this will speed up our vision of becoming a leader in population health, remaining focused on the patient, and empowering each person to live their unique, best life."

Qventus is an AI-based SaaS solution purpose-built for care operations automation. The platform integrates with EHRs and leverages AI, machine learning, and behavioral science to automate operations for inpatient, perioperative, emergency department, and command center functions.

For example, the inpatient solution automates early discharge planning to create inpatient bed capacity; the command center solution optimizes patient flow and resource utilization enterprise-wide, allowing health systems to intelligently distribute demand, effectively optimize care progression, and strategically manage post-acute placements; and the perioperative solution automates operating room (OR) scheduling processes to improve OR access and grow surgical revenues.

"Health systems have an opportunity to transform their care operations using automation, and innovative organizations like ThedaCare are leading the way," said Mudit Garg, Qventus Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer. "We are proud to partner with ThedaCare to enable them to run the world-class operations essential for delivering world-class care."

Supporting Patient Care at ThedaCare

As with many health care providers, ThedaCare faced operational challenges by the COVID-19 pandemic and is seeking new solutions that optimize clinical and operational resources and ease the burden on frontline teams. Qventus software can help ThedaCare by supporting automated discharge planning to get patients home safely, OR scheduling, system-wide patient flow and other operational activities. Qventus will be integrated with ThedaCare's electronic health records system to drive additional workflow efficiencies, reduce manual processes and deliver patient-level AI predictions to improve clinical decisions.

"ThedaCare's use of the Qventus platform and solutions can help our organization advance our commitment to putting patients first," said Thompson. "Care operations automation can help improve care delivery, and ensure our patients can access the right care at the right time."

Patients can expect to see shorter lead times for surgeries, more timely discharges and improved transparency into their care progression, due to the enhanced automation at ThedaCare. Care teams can benefit from less manual work, fewer back-and-forth phone calls, and an improved ability to consistently coordinate safe, on-time discharges.

"This partnership advances ThedaCare's commitment to becoming a proactive partner in health, and making health care easier and more affordable," said Thompson. "We look forward to working with Qventus to utilize their real-time automation platform and expertise in AI and machine learning. The partnership can help our care teams continue to deliver coordinated care that patients in Northeast and Central Wisconsin deserve."

About ThedaCare

For more than 110 years, ThedaCare has been committed to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves in Northeast and Central Wisconsin. The organization delivers care to more than 600,000 residents in 17 counties and employs approximately 7,000 health care professionals. ThedaCare has 180 points of care, including eight hospitals. As an organization committed to being a leader in Population Health, team members are dedicated to empowering people to live their unique, best lives. ThedaCare also partners with communities to understand needs, finding solutions together, and encouraging health awareness and action. ThedaCare is the first in Wisconsin to be a Mayo Clinic Care Network Member, giving specialists the ability to consult with Mayo Clinic experts on a patient's care. ThedaCare is a not-for-profit health system with a level II trauma center, comprehensive cancer treatment, stroke and cardiac programs, as well as primary care.

For more information, visit thedacare.org or follow ThedaCare on social media. Members of the media should call Cassandra Wallace, Public and Media Relations Consultant at 920.442.0328 or the ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah switchboard at 920.729.3100 and ask for the marketing person on call.

About Qventus

Qventus is the leading provider of AI-based software for care operations automation. Integrating with EHRs, the Qventus platform uses AI, machine learning, and behavioral science to power best-practice solutions for inpatient, perioperative, emergency department, and command center settings. As a partner to leading health systems and hospitals across the country, including Boston Medical Center, HonorHealth, M Health Fairview, Mercy, and Saint Luke's Health System, Qventus delivers proven outcomes, including 30-50% fewer excess days, 1 full day reduction in length of stay, and over 2 new cases added per operating room per month. For more, visit qventus.com.

Media:

Cassandra Wallace, [email protected], for ThedaCare

Mardi Larson, [email protected], for Qventus

SOURCE Qventus
CLEVELAND, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TransDigm Group Incorporated (NYSE: TDG), a leading global designer, producer and supplier of highly engineered aircraft components, today reported results for the third quarter ended July 2, 2022. The Company also announced that its Board of Directors has authorized and declared a special cash dividend of $18.50 on each outstanding share of common stock and cash dividend equivalent payments under options granted under its stock options plans. The record date for the special dividend is August 19, 2022, and the payment date for the dividend is August 26, 2022.

Third quarter highlights include:

Net sales of $1,398 million , up 15% from $1,218 million in the prior year's quarter;

, up 15% from in the prior year's quarter; Income from continuing operations of $239 million ;

; Earnings per share from continuing operations of $4.10 ;

; EBITDA As Defined of $696 million , up 25% from $559 million in the prior year's quarter;

, up 25% from in the prior year's quarter; EBITDA As Defined margin of 49.8%, up 390 basis points from the prior year's quarter;

Adjusted earnings per share of $4.85 , up 46% from $3.33 in the prior year's quarter;

, up 46% from in the prior year's quarter; Strong operating cash flow generation of $309 million ; and

; and Repurchase of $245 million of Company stock during the quarter, equating to 443,598 shares.

The Company's full fiscal 2022 guidance remains suspended as a result of the continued disruption in our primary commercial end markets. Refer to the "Fiscal 2022 Outlook" section below for further information.

Quarter-to-Date Results

Net sales for the quarter increased 14.8%, or $180 million, to $1,398 million from $1,218 million in the comparable quarter a year ago. Organic sales growth as a percentage of net sales was 16.7%.

Income from continuing operations for the quarter decreased $78 million, or 24.6%, to $239 million from $317 million in the comparable quarter a year ago. The decrease in income from continuing operations primarily reflects the higher effective tax rate and a pension settlement charge for the Esterline Retirement Plan. The comparable quarter a year ago also included the benefit of the net gain on sale recognized as a result of the divestitures completed during the third quarter of fiscal 2021. These unfavorable items contributing to the decrease in income from continuing operations were partially offset by the increase in net sales described above and favorable sales mix, along with lower one-time refinancing costs.

Adjusted net income for the quarter increased 44.8% to $281 million, or $4.85 per share, from $194 million, or $3.33 per share, in the comparable quarter a year ago.

EBITDA for the quarter increased 12.4% to $643 million from $572 million for the comparable quarter a year ago. EBITDA As Defined for the quarter increased 24.5% to $696 million compared with $559 million in the comparable quarter a year ago. EBITDA As Defined as a percentage of net sales for the quarter was 49.8% compared with 45.9% in the comparable quarter a year ago.

During the thirteen week period ended July 2, 2022, TransDigm repurchased 443,598 shares of its common stock with a weighted-average price per share of $553.62 at an aggregate cost of approximately $245 million.

As previously reported, on May 25, 2022, TransDigm completed the acquisition of DART Aerospace ("DART"), a portfolio company of Greenbriar Equity Group, L.P., for approximately $360 million in cash. DART is an industry leader in helicopter mission equipment with established positions on a diverse range of rotary-wing platforms.

"Global air traffic continues to trend upwards with the pent-up demand for air travel. This positive momentum bodes well for the commercial aerospace recovery. Domestic air travel remains the leader in the air traffic recovery, but the international air traffic recovery made strides these past few months as more passengers returned to long-haul travel," stated Kevin Stein, TransDigm Group's President and Chief Executive Officer. "I am pleased to see another quarter of sequential improvement in our commercial aftermarket revenues, with the commercial aftermarket bookings for the quarter outpacing revenues. We also saw further sequential expansion of our EBITDA As Defined margin this quarter to 49.8%. This was a result of the continued recovery in our commercial aftermarket revenues, coupled with careful management of our cost structure and focus on our operating strategy.

During the quarter, we returned $245 million of capital to shareholders via open market repurchases of our common stock. We view these repurchases like any other capital investment, and we expect this investment will meet or exceed our long-term return objectives.

Additionally, given the significant amount of cash currently available, our solid operating performance and ongoing expectations, we believe that this is the appropriate time to declare and pay a special dividend, as we have done in the past. The payout of a special dividend of $18.50 per share will leave us with significant liquidity and financial flexibility to meet any likely range of capital requirements or other opportunities.

In the aggregate, thus far this fiscal year, we have deployed approximately $2.4 billion of capital across the DART acquisition, today's announced dividend, and share repurchases. As you know, we are always continuously evaluating our capital allocation options and are pleased to have deployed this amount of capital across the range of options available to us."

Year-to-Date Results

Net sales for the thirty-nine week period ended July 2, 2022 increased 11.4%, or $400 million, to $3,919 million from $3,519 million in the comparable period a year ago. Organic sales growth as a percentage of net sales was 13.6%.

Income from continuing operations for the thirty-nine week period ended July 2, 2022 increased $128 million, or 27.1%, to $601 million from $473 million in the comparable period a year ago. The increase in income from continuing operations primarily reflects the increase in net sales described above and favorable sales mix, along with lower COVID-19 restructuring costs and lower one-time refinancing costs, partially offset by a higher effective tax rate. The comparable period a year ago also included the benefit of the net gain on sale recognized as a result of the divestitures completed during the third quarter of fiscal 2021.

GAAP earnings per share were reduced in fiscal 2022 and 2021 by $0.78 per share and $1.24 per share, respectively, as a result of dividend equivalent payments made during each year. As a reminder, GAAP earnings per share are reduced when TransDigm makes dividend equivalent payments pursuant to the Company's stock option plans. These dividend equivalent payments are made during the Company's first fiscal quarter each year and also upon payment of any special dividends.

Adjusted net income for the thirty-nine week period ended July 2, 2022 increased 48.9% to $685 million, or $11.68 per share, from $460 million, or $7.88 per share, in the comparable period a year ago.

EBITDA for the thirty-nine week period ended July 2, 2022 increased 24.0% to $1,753 million from $1,414 million for the comparable period a year ago. EBITDA As Defined for the period increased 22.0% to $1,894 million compared with $1,552 million in the comparable period a year ago. EBITDA As Defined as a percentage of net sales for the period was 48.3% compared with 44.1% in the comparable period a year ago.

During the thirty-nine week period ended July 2, 2022, TransDigm repurchased 1,490,413 shares of its common stock with a weighted-average price per share of $612.13 at an aggregate cost of approximately $912 million. As previously reported, on January 27, 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a new $2,200 million stock repurchase program to replace the existing program permitting the repurchase of a portion of TransDigm's outstanding shares. As of July 2, 2022, the remaining amount of repurchases allowed under the new program was approximately $1,288 million.

Please see the attached tables for a reconciliation of income from continuing operations to EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined, and adjusted net income; a reconciliation of net cash provided by operating activities to EBITDA and EBITDA As Defined, and a reconciliation of earnings per share to adjusted earnings per share for the periods discussed in this press release.

Fiscal 2022 Outlook

Given the considerable uncertainty around the extent and duration of business disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our primary commercial OEM and commercial aftermarket end markets, the Company is not providing full fiscal year 2022 guidance. Information regarding fiscal 2022 EBITDA As Defined margins, expected defense market revenue growth, tax rates, interest expense, capital expenditures and select accounting information is included in the slide presentation available for today's earnings call.

Earnings Conference Call

TransDigm Group will host a conference call for investors and security analysts on August 9, 2022, beginning at 11:00 a.m., Eastern Time. To join the call telephonically, please register for the call at https://register.vevent.com/register/BI198da0d708c042ce9c77cf865ef01588. Once registered, participants will receive the dial-in information and a unique pin to access the call. The dial-in information and unique pin will be sent to the email used to register for the call. The unique pin is exclusive to the registrant and can only be used by one person at a time. A live audio webcast of the call can also be accessed online at http://www.transdigm.com. A slide presentation will also be available for reference during the conference call; go to the investor relations page of our website and click on "Presentations."

The call will be archived on the website and available for replay at approximately 2:00 p.m., Eastern Time.

About TransDigm Group

TransDigm Group, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, is a leading global designer, producer and supplier of highly engineered aircraft components for use on nearly all commercial and military aircraft in service today. Major product offerings, substantially all of which are ultimately provided to end-users in the aerospace industry, include mechanical/electro-mechanical actuators and controls, ignition systems and engine technology, specialized pumps and valves, power conditioning devices, specialized AC/DC electric motors and generators, batteries and chargers, engineered latching and locking devices, engineered rods, engineered connectors and elastomer sealing solutions, databus and power controls, cockpit security components and systems, specialized and advanced cockpit displays, engineered audio, radio and antenna systems, specialized lavatory components, seat belts and safety restraints, engineered and customized interior surfaces and related components, advanced sensor products, switches and relay panels, thermal protection and insulation, lighting and control technology, parachutes, high performance hoists, winches and lifting devices, and cargo loading, handling and delivery systems.

Non-GAAP Supplemental Information

EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined, EBITDA As Defined Margin, adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share are non-GAAP financial measures presented in this press release as supplemental disclosures to net income and reported results. TransDigm Group defines EBITDA as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization and defines EBITDA As Defined as EBITDA plus certain non-operating items recorded as corporate expenses, including non-cash compensation charges incurred in connection with TransDigm Group's stock incentive plans, restructuring costs related to TransDigm Group's cost reduction measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, foreign currency gains and losses, acquisition-integration costs, acquisition and divestiture transaction-related expenses, and refinancing costs. COVID-19 restructuring costs represent actions taken by the Company to reduce its workforce to align with customer demand, as well as incremental costs related to the pandemic that are not expected to recur once the pandemic has subsided and are clearly separable from normal operations (e.g., additional cleaning and disinfecting of facilities by contractors above and beyond normal requirements, personal protective equipment). Acquisition and divestiture-related costs represent accounting adjustments to inventory associated with acquisitions of businesses and product lines that were charged to cost of sales when the inventory was sold; costs incurred to integrate acquired businesses and product lines into the Company's operations, facility relocation costs and other acquisition-related costs; transaction-related costs for both acquisitions and divestitures comprising deal fees; legal, financial and tax diligence expenses and valuation costs that are required to be expensed as incurred and other acquisition accounting adjustments. TransDigm Group defines adjusted net income as net income plus purchase accounting backlog amortization expense, effects from the sale on businesses, non-cash compensation charges incurred in connection with TransDigm Group's stock incentive plans, restructuring costs related to TransDigm Group's cost reduction measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, foreign currency gains and losses, acquisition-integration costs, acquisition transaction-related expenses, and refinancing costs. EBITDA As Defined Margin represents EBITDA As Defined as a percentage of net sales. TransDigm Group defines adjusted diluted earnings per share as adjusted net income divided by the total shares for basic and diluted earnings per share. For more information regarding the computation of EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined and adjusted net income and adjusted earnings per share, please see the attached financial tables.

TransDigm Group presents these non-GAAP financial measures because it believes that they are useful indicators of its operating performance. TransDigm Group believes that EBITDA is useful to investors because it is frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties to measure operating performance among companies with different capital structures, effective tax rates and tax attributes, capitalized asset values and employee compensation structures, all of which can vary substantially from company to company. In addition, analysts, rating agencies and others use EBITDA to evaluate a company's ability to incur and service debt. EBITDA As Defined is used to measure TransDigm Inc.'s compliance with the financial covenant contained in its credit facility. TransDigm Group's management also uses EBITDA As Defined to review and assess its operating performance, to prepare its annual budget and financial projections and to review and evaluate its management team in connection with employee incentive programs. Moreover, TransDigm Group's management uses EBITDA As Defined to evaluate acquisitions and as a liquidity measure. In addition, TransDigm Group's management uses adjusted net income as a measure of comparable operating performance between time periods and among companies as it is reflective of changes in pricing decisions, cost controls and other factors that affect operating performance.

None of EBITDA, EBITDA As Defined, EBITDA As Defined Margin, adjusted net income or adjusted earnings per share is a measurement of financial performance under U.S. GAAP and such financial measures should not be considered as an alternative to net income, operating income, earnings per share, cash flows from operating activities or other measures of performance determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP. In addition, TransDigm Group's calculation of these non-GAAP financial measures may not be comparable to the calculation of similarly titled measures reported by other companies.

Although we use EBITDA and EBITDA As Defined as measures to assess the performance of our business and for the other purposes set forth above, the use of these non-GAAP financial measures as analytical tools has limitations, and you should not consider any of them in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our results of operations as reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Some of these limitations are:

neither EBITDA nor EBITDA As Defined reflects the significant interest expense, or the cash requirements, necessary to service interest payments on our indebtedness;

although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized will often have to be replaced in the future, and neither EBITDA nor EBITDA As Defined reflects any cash requirements for such replacements;

the omission of the substantial amortization expense associated with our intangible assets further limits the usefulness of EBITDA and EBITDA As Defined;

neither EBITDA nor EBITDA As Defined includes the payment of taxes, which is a necessary element of our operations; and

EBITDA As Defined excludes the cash expense we have incurred to integrate acquired businesses into our operations, which is a necessary element of certain of our acquisitions.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements under the heading "Fiscal 2022 Outlook," are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "believe," "may," "will," "should," "expect," "intend," "plan," "predict," "anticipate," "estimate," or "continue" and other words and terms of similar meaning may identify forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause TransDigm Group's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, TransDigm Group. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has on the TransDigm Group's business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity; the sensitivity of TransDigm Group's business to the number of flight hours that its customers' planes spend aloft and its customers' profitability, both of which are affected by general economic conditions; future geopolitical or other worldwide events; cyber-security threats, natural disasters and climate change-related events; TransDigm Group's reliance on certain customers; the U.S. defense budget and risks associated with being a government supplier including government audits and investigations; failure to maintain government or industry approvals; failure to complete or successfully integrate acquisitions; TransDigm Group's indebtedness; potential environmental liabilities; liabilities arising in connection with litigation; climate-related regulations; increases in raw material costs, taxes and labor costs that cannot be recovered in product pricing; risks and costs associated with TransDigm Group's international sales and operations; and other factors. Further information regarding the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from projected results can be found in TransDigm Group's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021 and other reports that TransDigm Group or its subsidiaries have filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by law, TransDigm Group undertakes no obligation to revise or update the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED



CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME



FOR THE THIRTEEN AND THIRTY-NINE WEEK PERIODS ENDED

Table 1 JULY 2, 2022 AND JULY 3, 2021

(Amounts in millions, except per share amounts)



(Unaudited)



















Thirteen Week Periods Ended

Thirty-Nine Week Periods Ended



July 2, 2022

July 3, 2021

July 2, 2022

July 3, 2021 NET SALES

$ 1,398

$ 1,218

$ 3,919

$ 3,519 COST OF SALES

582

563

1,706

1,731 GROSS PROFIT

816

655

2,213

1,788 SELLING AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

184

172

537

531 AMORTIZATION OF INTANGIBLE ASSETS

33

36

102

101 INCOME FROM OPERATIONS

599

447

1,574

1,156 INTEREST EXPENSENET

269

263

799

798 REFINANCING COSTS



13



36 OTHER EXPENSE (INCOME)

21

(5)

15

(37) GAIN ON SALE OF BUSINESSESNET

(3)

(68)

(6)

(69) INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

BEFORE INCOME TAXES

312

244

766

428 INCOME TAX PROVISION (BENEFIT)

73

(73)

165

(45) INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

239

317

601

473 INCOME FROM DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS,

NET OF TAX





1

 NET INCOME

239

317

602

473 LESS: NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO

NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS

(1)



(2)

(2) NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO TD GROUP

$ 238

$ 317

$ 600

$ 471 NET INCOME APPLICABLE TO TD GROUP

COMMON STOCKHOLDERS

$ 238

$ 317

$ 554

$ 398 Earnings per share attributable to TD Group common

stockholders















Earnings per share from continuing operations

basic and diluted

$ 4.10

$ 5.43

$ 9.42

$ 6.83 Earnings per share from discontinued operations

basic and diluted





0.02

 Earnings per share

$ 4.10

$ 5.43

$ 9.44

$ 6.83 Weighted-average shares outstanding:















Basic and diluted

58.0

58.4

58.7

58.4

TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED



SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - RECONCILIATION OF EBITDA,



EBITDA AS DEFINED TO INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS



FOR THE THIRTEEN AND THIRTY-NINE WEEK PERIODS ENDED

Table 2 JULY 2, 2022 AND JULY 3, 2021

(Amounts in millions, except per share amounts)



(Unaudited)



















Thirteen Week Periods Ended

Thirty-Nine Week Periods Ended



July 2, 2022

July 3, 2021

July 2, 2022

July 3, 2021 Income from continuing operations

$ 239

$ 317

$ 601

$ 473 Adjustments:















Depreciation and amortization expense

61

65

188

188 Interest expense, net

269

263

799

798 Income tax provision (benefit)

74

(73)

165

(45) EBITDA

643

572

1,753

1,414 Adjustments:















Acquisition and divestiture transaction-related

expenses and adjustments (1)

5

6

13

24 Non-cash stock compensation expense (2)

36

35

115

105 Refinancing costs (3)



13



36 COVID-19 pandemic restructuring costs (4)



1



40 Gain on sale of businesses, net (5)

(3)

(68)

(6)

(69) Other, net (6)

15



19

2 Gross Adjustments to EBITDA

53

(13)

141

138 EBITDA As Defined

$ 696

$ 559

$ 1,894

$ 1,552 EBITDA As Defined, Margin (7)

49.8 %

45.9 %

48.3 %

44.1 %

















(1)

Represents accounting adjustments to inventory associated with acquisitions of businesses and product lines that were charged to cost of sales when inventory was sold; costs incurred to integrate acquired businesses and product lines into TD Group's operations, facility relocation costs and other acquisition-related costs; transaction-related costs for both acquisitions and divestitures comprising deal fees, legal, financial and tax due diligence expenses, and valuation costs that are required to be expensed as incurred.





(2)

Represents the compensation expense recognized by TD Group under our stock incentive plans.





(3)

Represents costs expensed related to debt financing activities, including new issuances, extinguishments, refinancings and amendments to existing agreements.





(4)

Represents restructuring costs related to the Company's cost reduction measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic of $36 million for the thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ended July 3, 2021, respectively. These are costs related to the Company's actions to reduce its workforce and consolidate certain facilities to align with customer demand. This also includes $1 million and $4 million for the thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ended July 3, 2021, respectively, of incremental costs related to the pandemic that are not expected to recur once the pandemic has subsided and are clearly separable from normal operations (e.g., additional cleaning and disinfecting of facilities by contractors above and beyond normal requirements, personal protective equipment, etc.). Restructuring costs incurred in response to the COVID-19 pandemic for the thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ended July 2, 2022 were not material.





(5)

Represents the net gain on sale of businesses, which is primarily attributable to the net gain on sale recognized as a result of the divestitures completed during the third quarter of fiscal 2021.





(6)

Primarily represents foreign currency transaction gain or loss, payroll withholding taxes related to special dividend and dividend equivalent payments and stock option exercises, non-service related pension costs including the pension settlement charge for the Esterline Retirement Plan, deferred compensation and gain or loss on sale of fixed assets.





(7)

The EBITDA As Defined margin represents the amount of EBITDA As Defined as a percentage of net sales.

TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED







SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - RECONCILIATION OF







REPORTED EARNINGS PER SHARE TO







ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER SHARE







FOR THE THIRTEEN AND THIRTY-NINE WEEK PERIODS ENDED





Table 3 JULY 2, 2022 AND JULY 3, 2021





(Amounts in millions, except per share amounts)







(Unaudited)



















Thirteen Week Periods Ended

Thirty-Nine Week Periods Ended



July 2, 2022

July 3, 2021

July 2, 2022

July 3, 2021 Reported Earnings Per Share















Income from continuing operations

$ 239

$ 317

$ 601

$ 473 Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

(1)



(2)

(2) Net income from continuing operations attributable to TD Group

238

317

599

471 Less: Special dividends declared or paid on participating securities,

including dividend equivalent payments





(46)

(73) Income from discontinued operations, net of tax





1

 Net income applicable to TD Group common stockholdersbasic

and diluted

$ 238

$ 317

$ 554

$ 398 Weighted-average shares outstanding under the two-class

method















Weighted-average common shares outstanding

54.4

55.0

55.0

54.8 Vested options deemed participating securities

3.6

3.4

3.7

3.6 Total shares for basic and diluted earnings per share

58.0

58.4

58.7

58.4 Earnings per share from continuing operationsbasic and diluted

$ 4.10

$ 5.43

$ 9.42

$ 6.83 Earnings per share from discontinued operationsbasic and diluted





0.02

 Earnings per share

$ 4.10

$ 5.43

$ 9.44

$ 6.83 Adjusted Earnings Per Share







Income from continuing operations

$ 239

$ 317

$ 601

$ 473 Gross adjustments to EBITDA

53

(13)

141

138 Purchase accounting backlog amortization

1

3

6

7 Tax adjustment (1)

(12)

(113)

(63)

(158) Adjusted net income

$ 281

$ 194

$ 685

$ 460 Adjusted diluted earnings per share under the two-class method

$ 4.85

$ 3.33

$ 11.68

$ 7.88 Diluted Earnings Per Share to Adjusted Earnings Per Share







Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations

$ 4.10

$ 5.43

$ 9.42

$ 6.83 Adjustments to diluted earnings per share:















Inclusion of the dividend and dividend equivalent payments





0.78

1.24 Acquisition and divestiture transaction-related expenses and adjustments

0.09

0.13

0.24

0.44 Non-cash stock compensation expense

0.47

0.50

1.47

1.45 Refinancing costs



0.18



0.50 Tax adjustment on income from continuing operations before taxes (1)



(1.97)

(0.44)

(2.22) COVID-19 pandemic restructuring costs



0.02



0.54 Gain on sale of businesses, net

(0.04)

(0.96)

(0.08)

(0.95) Other, net

0.23



0.29

0.05 Adjusted earnings per share

$ 4.85

$ 3.33

$ 11.68

$ 7.88













(1)

For the thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ended July 2, 2022, the Tax adjustment represents the tax effect of the adjustments at the applicable effective tax rate, as well as the impact on the effective tax rate when excluding the excess tax benefits on stock option exercises. For the thirteen and thirty-nine week periods ended July 3, 2021, the Tax adjustment represents the tax effect of the adjustments at the applicable effective tax rate, as well as the impact on the effective tax rate when excluding the release of the valuation allowance applicable to the net interest deduction limitation carryforward and the discrete impact of excess tax benefits on stock option exercises. Interest expense and stock compensation expense are excluded from adjusted net income and therefore we have excluded the impact that the release of the valuation allowance applicable to the net interest deduction limitation carryforward and excess tax benefits on stock option exercises have on the effective tax rate for determining adjusted net income.

TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED



SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - RECONCILIATION OF NET CASH



PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES TO EBITDA,



EBITDA AS DEFINED



FOR THE THIRTY-NINE WEEK PERIODS ENDED

Table 4 JULY 2, 2022 AND JULY 3, 2021

(Amounts in millions)



(Unaudited)











Thirty-Nine Week Periods Ended



July 2, 2022

July 3, 2021 Net cash provided by operating activities

$ 675

$ 624 Adjustments:







Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects from acquisitions and sales of

businesses

220

33 Interest expense, net (1)

773

772 Income tax provision - current

166

10 Loss contract amortization

28

47 Non-cash stock compensation expense (2)

(115)

(105) Refinancing costs (3)



(36) Gain on sale of businesses, net (4)

6

69 EBITDA

1,753

1,414 Adjustments:







Acquisition and divestiture transaction-related expenses and adjustments (5)

13

24 Non-cash stock compensation expense (2)

115

105 Refinancing costs (3)



36 COVID-19 pandemic restructuring costs (6)



40 Gain on sale of businesses, net (4)

(6)

(69) Other, net (7)

19

2 EBITDA As Defined

$ 1,894

$ 1,552













(1)

Represents interest expense excluding the amortization of debt issuance costs and premium and discount on debt.





(2)

Represents the compensation expense recognized by TD Group under our stock incentive plans.





(3)

Represents costs expensed related to debt financing activities, including new issuances, extinguishments, refinancings and amendments to existing agreements.





(4)

Represents the net gain on sale of businesses, which is primarily attributable to the net gain on sale recognized as a result of the divestitures completed during the third quarter of fiscal 2021.





(5)

Represents accounting adjustments to inventory associated with acquisitions of businesses and product lines that were charged to cost of sales when inventory was sold; costs incurred to integrate acquired businesses and product lines into TD Group's operations, facility relocation costs and other acquisition-related costs; transaction-related costs for both acquisitions and divestitures comprising deal fees, legal, financial and tax due diligence expenses, and valuation costs that are required to be expensed as incurred.





(6)

Represents restructuring costs related to the Company's cost reduction measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic of $36 million for the thirty-nine week period ended July 3, 2021. These are costs related to the Company's actions to reduce its workforce and consolidate certain facilities to align with customer demand. This also includes $4 million for the thirty-nine week period ended July 3, 2021 of incremental costs related to the pandemic that are not expected to recur once the pandemic has subsided and are clearly separable from normal operations (e.g., additional cleaning and disinfecting of facilities by contractors above and beyond normal requirements, personal protective equipment, etc.). Restructuring costs incurred in response to the COVID-19 pandemic for the thirty-nine week period ended July 2, 2022 were not material.





(7)

Primarily represents foreign currency transaction gain or loss, payroll withholding taxes related to special dividend and dividend equivalent payments and stock option exercises, non-service related pension costs including the pension settlement charge for the Esterline Retirement Plan, deferred compensation and gain or loss on sale of fixed assets.

TRANSDIGM GROUP INCORPORATED



SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - BALANCE SHEET DATA

Table 5 (Amounts in millions)





(Unaudited)











July 2, 2022

September 30, 2021 Cash and cash equivalents

$ 3,808

$ 4,787 Trade accounts receivableNet

883

791 InventoriesNet

1,320

1,185 Current portion of long-term debt

77

277 Short-term borrowingstrade receivable securitization facility

350

349 Accounts payable

248

227 Accrued and other current liabilities

669

810 Long-term debt

19,382

19,372 Total TD Group stockholders' deficit

(2,976)

(2,916)















SOURCE TransDigm Group Inc.
TRP, a vertically integrated owner and operator, announces the roll out of its newest retail stores for cannabis' leading legacy brands, with the opening of Florida's first Cookies dispensary

MIAMI, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- TRP is bringing the world's most recognized cannabis brand Cookies to the Florida market through an exclusive partnership. The first Cookies dispensary in the state is opening at 8303 Bird Road in Miami, Florida on August 13, 2022. TRP looks forward to serving South Florida's patients via its subsidiary and MMTC license holder Cookies Florida, Inc. ("Cookies Florida").

A vertically integrated cannabis holding and operating company, TRP was founded to empower cannabis' most iconic and recognized brands, and is one of the nation's largest privately held cannabis companies. TRP leverages its platform to scale its exclusive brand partners including Cookies, Dr. Greenthumb's, and Insane, while respecting their culture and brand identity.

TRP draws on its expertise as the largest owner and operator of Cookies dispensaries nationwide to engage patients and consumers with the high quality products and shopping experience that propelled Cookies to the phenomenon it is today. With a footprint in 14 states and 2 countries, TRP is opening the first Cookies dispensary in the heart of Miami, bringing exclusive cannabis genetics and products to the people of South Florida.

"TRP is purpose-built to produce, sell, and scale the best brands in cannabis. We broaden access and availability while preserving and promoting the legacy and culture," says Daniel Firtel, Co-Founder and President of TRP. "We're excited for TRP to expand into Florida with our exclusive brand partner Cookies and look forward to continuing to empower all of our partners in Florida and across our footprint."

The team's ability to manage the unique challenges of regulated cannabis and utilize its expansive retail, cultivation, and distribution network is imperative to the success of brands as they look to scale across the US and world's segmented cannabis market.

"The best brands and genetics have roots in the legacy market, and TRP is empowering these legacy operators to transition into the regulated space," says Brandon Johnson, Co-Founder, and CEO of TRP. "Our infrastructure and expertise allows brand builders to focus on their vision, and we execute on our core competencies to achieve scale."

ABOUT TRP:

Founded in 2019, TRP is a retail, cultivation, and distribution platform purpose-built to solve the challenges of regulated cannabis. We combine decades of investment, legal, regulatory and real estate experience with know-how from long standing cannabis operators. Our footprint in 14 states and 2 countries exclusively produces and sells the most recognized brands including Cookies, Dr. Greenthumb's, Insane, and more. ( www.trp.co )

For more information, please contact Chapter 2:

Kenneth Loo, [email protected] or Irene Ancheta, [email protected]

SOURCE TRP Holdco, LLC
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Tupperware Brands Corporation (NYSE: TUP) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

Class Period: November 3, 2021 to May 3, 2022

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: August 15, 2022

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in TUP:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/tupperware-brands-corporation-loss-submission-form-2?id=30639&from=4

Tupperware Brands Corporation NEWS - TUP NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Tupperware Brands Corporation made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Tupperware was facing significant challenges in maintaining its earnings and sales performance; (ii) accordingly, Tupperware's full-year 2022 guidance was unrealistic and/or unsustainable; (iii) all the foregoing, once revealed, was likely to have a material negative impact on Tupperware's financial condition; and (iv) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Tupperware you have until August 15, 2022 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Tupperware securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the TUP lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/tupperware-brands-corporation-loss-submission-form-2?id=30639&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

Empire State Building

350 Fifth Avenue

59th Floor

New York, NY 10118

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
UNLEASH World returns to Paris for its 10th Anniversary from 12-13th October 2022



LONDON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- After a three year hiatus, UNLEASH World is back with a bang in Paris this October, gathering Europe's HR thinkers, strategists and innovators in person to mark its tenth anniversary.

As HR continues to transform, UNLEASH World 2022 is bringing together la creme de la creme to showcase the next wave of breakthrough technologies and global innovators changing the future of work. Despite everything, the heart and soul of HR remains the same  people, passion and purpose.

Held at the Paris Convention Centre, UNLEASH World will be the epicentre of the ultimate HR experience, hosting over 200 inspirational speakers and exhibitors sharing their expertise and thoughts on the people challenges that organisations face today.

UNLEASH will roll out the red carpet for some of the brightest minds of the business world, including:

Q Hamirani, Global Head of Live and Work Anywhere - Airbnb

Josh Novelle , Global Director of Digital Learning Solutions - Warner Music Group

, Global Director of Digital Learning Solutions - Beatriz Jaen Caparros, Director People Technology and Analytics - Virgin Media O2

Costas Markides, Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship - London Business School

Beatrice Guillaume-Grabisch, CHRO - Nestle

Hannah Fry , Mathematician and BBC Television Presenter

, Mathematician and Television Presenter Shakti Jauhar, Head of Global Digital HR Transformation and People Experience - McDonald's

Other people leaders taking the stage include Elisa Bassi, Global Learning Director for Transformation at L'Oreal, Antonio Bebba, DE&I Regional Operations Lead (Europe) at Pfizer, Peter Hinssen, Founder of nexxworks, Erin Mayer, Professor of Management Practice from Insead and Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerMedia, plus many more.

Visitors can also expect to hear exclusive announcements live at the event from Avature, Benify, Crunchr and Remote.com.

Marc Coleman, CEO and Founder of UNLEASH:

"With the success of UNLEASH America back in May under our belts, we cannot wait to host our flagship event in Paris and deliver an in-person HR experience like none other. The last few years have been a whirlwind for the HR community, reinventing itself in the face of the challenges of the pandemic. However, we want to put the focus back on how the heart and soul of HR remains untouched with people, passion and purpose at its core. Our ultimate objective is for UNLEASH World to shine a light on HR superpowers shaping the future of work."

For more information on UNLEASH World, or to join the best HR experience of your career, visit: https://www.unleash.ai/unleashworld/ .

About UNLEASH

UNLEASH is a global digital media and events business that brings the latest news, analysis and market trends to HR, technology, learning and recruitment leaders.

Since 2011, UNLEASH has served the global HR community. It drives transformation and pushes the industry forward. UNLEASH exists to inspire, connect and empower HR leaders worldwide to stay one step ahead in the fast-changing world of work.

SOURCE UNLEASH
WYNYARD, UK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Venator Materials PLC (NYSE: VNTR) ("Venator") today announced the resignation of Kathy Patrick from its Board of Directors and the appointment of Miguel Kohlmann to its Board of Directors, both effective August 9, 2022.

Ms. Patrick has served as a director since the Company's IPO in 2017 and served on Venator's Audit Committee and Compensation Committee at the time of her resignation. She is resigning due to other professional commitments.

Mr. Kohlmann is based in Europe and has substantial industry experience as a former CEO and via service on a number of boards, including the listed Danish building materials group H+H. Mr. Kohlmann is an independent director and will serve as a member of Venator's Audit Committee and Compensation Committee.

Simon Turner, President and CEO of Venator, commented. "We would like to thank Kathy for her invaluable service to our Board and the Company and we are pleased to welcome Miguel to our Board of Directors. Miguel's breadth of experience will be a valuable addition to an already strong Board that is actively involved in strategy and value enhancement for our business."

About Venator

Venator is a global manufacturer and marketer of chemical products that comprise a broad range of pigments and additives that bring color and vibrancy to buildings, protect and extend product life, and reduce energy consumption. We market our products globally to a diversified group of industrial customers through two segments: Titanium Dioxide, which consists of our TiO 2 business, and Performance Additives, which consists of our functional additives, color pigments and timber treatment businesses. Based in Wynyard, U.K., Venator employs approximately 3,500 associates and sells its products in more than 110 countries.

Social Media:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/VenatorCorp

Facebook: www.facebook.com/venatorcorp

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/venator-corp

SOURCE Venator Materials PLC
DUBLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Research Report on Vietnam's Rice Industry 2022-2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Vietnam is rich in rice, tropical crops and aquatic products and is a major exporter of agricultural products in Southeast Asia, and the third largest exporter of rice in the world.



According to the analyst's analysis, Vietnam's rice export value reached USD3.133 billion in 2021, and rice has become a bright spot in Vietnam's agricultural products exports. This is a remarkable achievement of the rice industry for many years, especially in the context of natural disasters and COVID-19 epidemic that hit Vietnam's agriculture in 2020 in terms of production and export.



In 2021, Vietnam's total rice production was about 44 million tons, meeting the demand for domestic consumption, processing, poultry and livestock feed, and export, etc. In 2020, its rice exports grew against the backdrop of a decline in exports of many of Vietnam's long-dominant agricultural products due to the COVID-19 epidemic. In 2021, rice exports increased from 5.28 million tons to 6.57 million tons.



In terms of price, the average price of Vietnam's rice exports in 2021 dropped 3.83 percent year on year to $477 per ton. At the beginning of 2021, Vietnamese rice prices still maintained the highest position. On March 25th, Vietnamese rice with a 5% breakage rate rose to $515-520 per ton, Thai rice of the same variety to $500-518 per ton and Indian rice to $398-403. In January 2021, Vietnam's rice export price reached $551.7 per ton.



Since the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) came into force on August 1, 2020, rice exports have rapidly seen an upturn. According to EVFTA, the EU provides Vietnam with 80,000 tons of rice for export at 0% tax rate annually (including 30,000 tons of milled rice, 20,000 tons of unmilled rice and 30,000 tons of aromatic rice).



For rice from Vietnam, the EU will reduce the import duty rate to zero in the coming years. Taking advantage of the above, from September 2020, Vietnam started to sell rice to the EU at a much higher price than before. Specifically, before EVFTA came into effect, the prices of ST20 rice and Jasmine rice exported to the EU were USD800 and USD520 per ton, respectively, while now the prices are over USD1,000 and USD600, respectively.



According to the analyst's analysis, there are three reasons for the rise in Vietnam's rice prices. Firstly, the government issued an agricultural restructuring proposal, by which the rice structure has been strongly adjusted, changing the rice cultivation protocols, i.e., paying more attention to improving rice quality rather than increasing production.



In 2015, Vietnam's quality rice seeds accounted for only 35%-40% of the total seeds, while in 2020 the Chart reached 75%-80%, and even in some places, the usage rate of quality rice seeds is as high as 90%.



Secondly, Vietnam has signed many FTAs such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Europe-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) with many countries, which creates conditions for a breakthrough in Vietnam's rice exports. Third, many industries were affected by the COVID-19 epidemic in 2020, but the market demand for food has not decreased.



According to the analyst's analysis, the Jiulong River Plain is the center of rice cultivation in Vietnam, contributing 50% of rice production and 95% of rice exports to Vietnam's agriculture.



In 2020, the Jiulong River Plain cultivated more than 1.5 million hectares of rice per season, with an average yield of 6 tons per hectare and an annual rice production of more than 24 million tons. Furthermore, its winter-spring rice production is expected to reach 10 million tons from 2020 to 2021.



The analyst reports that Vietnam's rice exports are to continue to rise in both volume and value in 2022-2031.

Topics covered:

Overview of Vietnam's Rice Industry

Rice Industry Economic and Policy Environment of Vietnam's Rice Industry

Rice Industry What is the Impact of COVID-19 on Vietnam's Rice Industry?

Rice Industry? Imports volumes and values of Vietnam's Rice, 2016-2021

Rice, 2016-2021 Forecast on Imports volumes and values of Vietnam's Rice, 2022-2031

Rice, 2022-2031 Analysis of Major Rice Companies in Vietnam

Key Drivers and Market Opportunities in Vietnam's Rice Industry

Rice Industry What are the key drivers, challenges, and opportunities for the rice industry in Vietnam during 2022-2031?

during 2022-2031? What is the expected revenue of the Vietnam rice market during 2022-2031?

rice market during 2022-2031? What are the strategies adopted by the key players in the market to increase their market share in the industry?

Which segment of Vietnam's rice market is expected to dominate the market in 2031?

rice market is expected to dominate the market in 2031? What are the major adverse factors facing the rice industry in Vietnam ?

Key Topics Covered:



1 Overview of Vietnam

1.1 Geographical Situation

1.2 Demographic Structure of Vietnam

1.3 Economy of Vietnam

1.4 Minimum Wage in Vietnam, 2011-2022

1.5 Impact of COVID-19 on the Rice Industry in Vietnam



2 Development Environment of Vietnam's Rice Industry

2.1 Brief History of Vietnam's Rice Industry

2.2 Types of Vietnam's Rice industry

2.3 Policy Environment of Vietnam's Rice Industry



3 Supply and Demand Situation of Vietnam's Rice Industry

3.1 Supply Situation

3.2 Demand Situation



4 Import and Export Situation of Vietnam's Rice Industry

4.1 Import Situation

4.1.1 Import Volume and Import Value

4.1.2 Main Import Sources

4.2 Export Situation

4.2.1 Export Volume and Value

4.2.2 Main Export Destinations



5 Market Competition in Vietnam's Rice Industry

5.1 Barriers to Entry in Vietnam's Rice Industry

5.1.1 Brand barrier

5.1.2 Quality Barrier

5.1.3 Capital Barrier

5.2 Competitive Structure of Vietnam's Rice Industry

5.2.1 Bargaining Power of Rice Suppliers

5.2.2 Bargaining Power of Consumers

5.2.3 Competition in Vietnam's Rice Industry

5.2.4 Potential Entrants in the Rice Industry

5.2.5 Substitutes for Rice



6 Analysis of Major Rice Brand Companies in Vietnam

6.1 Vilaconic Joint Stock Company

6.1.1 Development History of Vilaconic Joint Stock Company

6.1.2 Main Products of Vilaconic Joint Stock Company

6.1.3 Operating Model of Vilaconic Joint Stock Company

6.2 Vu Phat International Co., Ltd

6.3 Cam Nguyen Rice Trading And Processing Limited Company

6.4 Khanh Tam Company Limited

6.5 Hoa Lua Rice Trading Company Limited

6.6 SUNRISE INS Company Limited

6.7 Khue Star Import Export Trading Company Limited

6.8 Robert & Partners International Limited

6.9 Hanfimex Group

6.10 Gia Son Phat Trading and Service Co.



7 Outlook on Vietnam's Rice Industry, 2021-2031

7.1 Analysis of Vietnam's Rice Industry Development Factors

7.1.1 Drivers and Development Opportunities for Vietnam's Rice Industry

7.1.2 Threats and Challenges Facing Vietnam's Rice Industry

7.2 Forecast on Vietnam's Rice Supply

7.3 Forecast on Vietnam's Rice Market Demand

7.4 Forecast on Import and Export of Vietnam's Rice Industry

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/437ryw

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
Wallets Market 2022-2026: Scope

Our wallets market report covers the following areas:

Wallets Market 2022-2026: Market Dynamics

Drivers: The Wide availability of wallets online, growing focus on the expansion of DTC channels by vendors & Increasing advertising and marketing campaigns will offer immense growth opportunities

The Wide availability of wallets online, growing focus on the expansion of DTC channels by vendors & Increasing advertising and marketing campaigns will offer immense growth opportunities Challenges: The t hreat of counterfeit products, intense competition between vendors & growing prominence of digital wallets will challenge the growth of the market participants.

The hreat of counterfeit products, intense competition between vendors & growing prominence of digital wallets will challenge the growth of the market participants. To know more about the market dynamics - Click Now!

Wallets Market 2022-2026 : Segmentation Analysis

Product

Smart-connected Wallets



Conventional Wallets

Revenue Generating Segment - The wallet's market share growth in the smart-connected wallets segment will be significant for revenue generation. A smart-connected wallet is a type of personal accessory that is used to carry personal belongings such as cash, transactional cards other items just like a conventional wallet. However, unlike conventional wallets, the location of smart-connected wallets can be tracked down by users with the help of Bluetooth or Wi-Fi in case the wallets are lost. They are compatible with smartphones and other wireless technology-enabled digital devices, such as tablets and laptops. Thus, the incorporation of smart features such as wallet tracking and biometric identification in smart-connected wallets helps to track these wallets in case of loss or theft. Such application of smart-connected wallets will drive the wallets market during the forecast period.

The wallet's market share growth in the will be significant for revenue generation. A smart-connected wallet is a type of personal accessory that is used to carry personal belongings such as cash, transactional cards other items just like a conventional wallet. However, unlike conventional wallets, the location of smart-connected wallets can be tracked down by users with the help of Bluetooth or Wi-Fi in case the wallets are lost. They are compatible with smartphones and other wireless technology-enabled digital devices, such as tablets and laptops. Thus, the incorporation of smart features such as wallet tracking and biometric identification in smart-connected wallets helps to track these wallets in case of loss or theft. Such application of smart-connected wallets will drive the wallets market during the forecast period. Geography

APAC



Europe



North America



South America



The Middle East And Africa

Regional Highlights - 41% of the market's growth will originate from APAC during the forecast period. China and India are the key markets for the wallets market in APAC. Market growth in this region will be faster than the growth of the market in other regions. The increasing number of retail expansions by vendors operating in the market will facilitate the wallets market growth in APAC over the forecast period.

To know about the market contribution of each segment - Request an Exclusive FREE Sample Now!

Wallets Market 2022-2026: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2022-2026

Detailed information on factors that will assist wallets market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the wallets market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the wallets market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of wallets market vendors

The competitive scenario provided in the Wallets Market report analyzes, evaluates, and positions companies based on various performance indicators. Some of the factors considered for this analysis include the financial performance of companies over the past few years, growth strategies, product innovations, new product launches, investments, growth in market share, etc.Don't wait, Make a strategic approach & boost your business goals with our Wallets Market Forecast Report - Buy Now!

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Wallets Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2021 Forecast period 2022-2026 Growth momentum & CAGR Decelerate at a CAGR of 8.87% Market growth 2022-2026 USD 8.78 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 10.17 Regional analysis APAC, Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 41% Key consumer countries US, Mexico, China, India, and Germany Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled BAGGIT, Bellroy Pty Ltd., Buffalo Jackson Trading Co., Burberry Group Plc, Calleen Cordero Designs Inc., Da Milano Leathers Pvt. Ltd., Ekster Wallets BV, Furla Spa, Hermes International SA, Hidesign, Intersoft consulting services AG, Kenneth Cole Productions Inc., Kering SA, LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, Matt and Nat SE, Mulberry Group Plc, Ralph Lauren Corp., Tapestry Inc., Tory Burch LLC, and Fossil Group Inc. Market Dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID 19 impact and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for the forecast period, Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

Browse for Technavio " Consumer Discretionary Market " Research Reports

Table Of Contents :

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Market Overview

Exhibit 01: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Overview



Exhibit 02: Executive Summary  Data Table on Market Overview



Exhibit 03: Executive Summary  Chart on Global Market Characteristics



Exhibit 04: Executive Summary  Chart on Market by Geography



Exhibit 05: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by Product



Exhibit 06: Executive Summary  Chart on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 07: Executive Summary  Data Table on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 08: Executive Summary  Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

2 Market Landscape

2.1 Market ecosystem

Exhibit 09: Parent market



Exhibit 10: Market Characteristics

3 Market Sizing

3.1 Market definition

Exhibit 11: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition

3.2 Market segment analysis

Exhibit 12: Market segments

3.3 Market size 2021

3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2021-2026

Exhibit 13: Chart on Global - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 14: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 15: Chart on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 16: Data Table on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

4 Five Forces Analysis

4.1 Five forces summary

Exhibit 17: Five forces analysis - Comparison between2021 and 2026

4.2 Bargaining power of buyers

Exhibit 18: Chart on the Bargaining power of buyers  Impact of key factors 2021 and 2026

4.3 Bargaining power of suppliers

Exhibit 19: Bargaining power of suppliers  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.4 Threat of new entrants

Exhibit 20: Threat of new entrants  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.5 Threat of substitutes

Exhibit 21: Threat of substitutes  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.6 Threat of rivalry

Exhibit 22: Threat of rivalry  Impact of key factors in 2021 and 2026

4.7 Market condition

Exhibit 23: Chart on Market condition - Five forces 2021 and 2026

5 Market Segmentation by Product

5.1 Market segments

Exhibit 24: Chart on Product - Market share 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 25: Data Table on Product - Market share 2021-2026 (%)

5.2 Comparison by Product

Exhibit 26: Chart on Comparison by Product



Exhibit 27: Data Table on Comparison by Product

5.3 Conventional wallets - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 28: Chart on Conventional wallets - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 29: Data Table on Conventional wallets - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 30: Chart on Conventional wallets - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 31: Data Table on Conventional wallets - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.4 Smart-connected wallets - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 32: Chart on Smart-connected wallets - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 33: Data Table on Smart-connected wallets - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 34: Chart on Smart-connected wallets - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 35: Data Table on Smart-connected wallets - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

5.5 Market opportunity by Product

Exhibit 36: Market opportunity by Product ($ million)

6 Customer Landscape

6.1 Customer landscape overview

Exhibit 37: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria

7 Geographic Landscape

7.1 Geographic segmentation

Exhibit 38: Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 39: Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2026 (%)

7.2 Geographic comparison

Exhibit 40: Chart on Geographic comparison



Exhibit 41: Data Table on Geographic comparison

7.3 APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 42: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 43: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 44: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 45: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 46: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 47: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 48: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 49: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.5 North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 50: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 51: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 52: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 53: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 54: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 55: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 56: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 57: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 58: Chart on the Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 59: Data Table on the Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 60: Chart on the Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

and - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 61: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.8 US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

Exhibit 62: Chart on the US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 63: Data Table on the US - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)



Exhibit 64: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)



Exhibit 65: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.9 China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 66: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 67: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 68: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 69: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.10 India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 70: Chart on India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 71: Data Table on India - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 72: Chart on India - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 73: Data Table on India - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.11 Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 74: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 75: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 76: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 77: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.12 Mexico - Market size and forecast 2021-2026

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 Exhibit 78: Chart on Mexico - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 79: Data Table on Mexico - Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2021-2026 ($ million)

Exhibit 80: Chart on Mexico - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

Exhibit 81: Data Table on Mexico - Year-over-year growth 2021-2026 (%)

7.13 Market opportunity by geography

Exhibit 82: Market opportunity by geography ($ million)

8 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

8.1 Market drivers

8.2 Market challenges

8.3 Impact of drivers and challenges

Exhibit 83: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2021 and 2026

8.4 Market trends

9 Vendor Landscape

9.1 Overview

9.2 Vendor landscape

Exhibit 84: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation

9.3 Landscape disruption

Exhibit 85: Overview on factors of disruption

9.4 Industry risks

Exhibit 86: Impact of key risks on business

10 Vendor Analysis

10.1 Vendors covered

Exhibit 87: Vendors covered

10.2 Market positioning of vendors

Exhibit 88: Matrix on vendor position and classification

10.3 Bellroy Pty Ltd.

Exhibit 89: Bellroy Pty Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 90: Bellroy Pty Ltd. - Product / Service



Exhibit 91: Bellroy Pty Ltd. - Key offerings

10.4 Burberry Group Plc

Exhibit 92: Burberry Group Plc - Overview



Exhibit 93: Burberry Group Plc - Business segments



Exhibit 94: Burberry Group Plc - Key offerings



Exhibit 95: Burberry Group Plc - Segment focus

10.5 Fossil Group Inc.

Exhibit 96: Fossil Group Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 97: Fossil Group Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 98: Fossil Group Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 99: Fossil Group Inc. - Segment focus

10.6 Hermes International SA

Exhibit 100: Hermes International SA - Overview



Exhibit 101: Hermes International SA - Business segments



Exhibit 102: Hermes International SA - Key offerings



Exhibit 103: Hermes International SA - Segment focus

10.7 Hidesign

Exhibit 104: Hidesign - Overview



Exhibit 105: Hidesign - Product / Service



Exhibit 106: Hidesign - Key offerings

10.8 Kering SA

Exhibit 107: Kering SA - Overview



Exhibit 108: Kering SA - Business segments



Exhibit 109: Kering SA - Key offerings



Exhibit 110: Kering SA - Segment focus

10.9 LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE

Exhibit 111: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Overview



Exhibit 112: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Business segments



Exhibit 113: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Key news



Exhibit 114: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Key offerings



Exhibit 115: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Segment focus

10.10 Mulberry Group Plc

Exhibit 116: Mulberry Group Plc - Overview



Exhibit 117: Mulberry Group Plc - Business segments



Exhibit 118: Mulberry Group Plc - Key offerings



Exhibit 119: Mulberry Group Plc - Segment focus

10.11 Ralph Lauren Corp.

Exhibit 120: Ralph Lauren Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 121: Ralph Lauren Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 122: Ralph Lauren Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 123: Ralph Lauren Corp. - Segment focus

10.12 Tapestry Inc.

Exhibit 124: Tapestry Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 125: Tapestry Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 126: Tapestry Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 127: Tapestry Inc. - Segment focus

11 Appendix

11.1 Scope of the report

11.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

Exhibit 128: Inclusions checklist



Exhibit 129: Exclusions checklist

11.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

Exhibit 130: Currency conversion rates for US$

11.4 Research methodology

Exhibit 131: Research methodology



Exhibit 132: Validation techniques employed for market sizing



Exhibit 133: Information sources

11.5 List of abbreviations

Exhibit 134: List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
Expands Northern RI Presence

CUMBERLAND, R.I., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Washington Trust hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony today to officially open its 25th branch location, located at 1900 Mendon Road in Cumberland, RI. Washington Trust Chairman and CEO Edward O. "Ned" Handy III was joined by Cumberland Mayor Jeffrey Mutter, Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce President Liz Catucci, and other distinguished guests to celebrate the occasion.

Washington Trust celebrates their newest branch in Cumberland, RI with a ribbon-cutting event. From left, Director of the Northern Rhode Island Food Pantry, Richard Telesmanick; Northern RI Chamber President Liz Catucci; AVP & Branch Manager Crystal Thompson; Washington Trust Chairman & CEO Ned Handy; Executive VP and Chief Retail Banking Officer Deb Gormley; Vice President and Director of Facilities Larry Orlando; Cumberland Mayor Jeffrey Mutter; and President of A. Autiello Construction Co.

"We're thrilled to expand our footprint in Northern Rhode Island with the opening of the Cumberland branch," said Handy. "As the nation's oldest community bank, Washington Trust takes pride in our longstanding tradition of providing outstanding service to our customers and to our communities. We look forward to working with individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits in Cumberland and the surrounding communities."

The Cumberland branch offers a full suite of banking and loan products and services to individuals and businesses through in-branch lobby and drive-up banking, as well as digital banking solutions. The Cumberland staff, led by Assistant Vice President and Branch Manager Crystal Thompson, will provide customers with banking solutions and personalized services to help them achieve their financial goals.

During the ribbon-cutting event, Handy presented Richard Telesmanick, Director of the Northern Rhode Island Food Pantry, with a $2,500 contribution to help fund the Pantry's annual food acquisition.

Washington Trust's Cumberland branch will host a Grand Opening celebration on Saturday, August 20th from 10am- 12pm. The event, which is open to the public and free-of-charge, will feature free food, giveaways, music and more. Visit washtrust.com/Cumberland for more information.

ABOUT WASHINGTON TRUST

Founded in 1800, Washington Trust is the oldest community bank in the nation and one of the Northeast's premier financial services companies. Washington Trust offers a full range of financial services, including commercial banking, mortgage banking, personal banking and wealth management and trust services through its offices located in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts. The Washington Trust Company is a subsidiary of Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., (NASDAQ: WASH). Additional information on Washington Trust and its subsidiaries can be found at https://www.washtrust.com/.

SOURCE The Washington Trust Company
Visual development leaders rank #50 on esteemed list after crossing $4B valuation and achieving over $100M in annual recurring revenue

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Webflow, the leading visual development platform for building powerful no-code websites, today has been named to the Forbes 2022 Cloud 100, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures. Webflow was recognized as the #50 company on the list, up from #69 in 2021 and #95 in 2020.

"Being on the Forbes Cloud 100 along with companies we admire is a true honor and makes us proud of Webflow's strong momentum over the past yearfrom closing our Series C to expanding our executive team to unveiling our $10 million community grants program," said Vlad Magdalin, co-founder and CEO of Webflow. "Being recognized for three consecutive years on this list of great companies further validates our mission to bring the life-changing power of web development to everyone, while also helping startups and enterprises transform how they build their main websites."

In the past year, Webflow announced a $120 million Series C funding round, which brought the company to a $4 billion valuation with over $100M in annual recurring revenue (ARR). The company added several new roles to the executive team, naming seasoned cloud executives Linda Tong as COO, Shane Murphy-Reuter as CMO and Mike Podobnik as VP of People. Webflow also introduced a raft of new solutions to help anyone build more powerful websites, including powerful tools like memberships and logic. Webflow serves more than 200,000 customers, helping startups, agencies and enterprises like Vice Media, Shift, Rakuten, Dell and Discord build powerful websites with no code.

For the seventh straight year, the Cloud 100 reviews submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies each year. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people & culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help of a judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers.

"The companies of the Cloud 100 list represent the best and brightest private companies in this fast-growing sector," said Alex Konrad, senior editor at Forbes. "Every year, it gets more difficult to make this list  meaning even more elite company for those who do. Congratulations to each of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees."

"The public markets may be in turmoil, but the private valuations of the Cloud 100 continue to rise. All of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees, again, have reached the $1 billion valuation milestone, and the average Cloud 100 valuation has skyrocketed to $7.4 billion," said Mary D'Onofrio, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners. "Despite the market correction in 2022, our confidence in the cloud economy continues to growtoday over 70% of the 2022 Cloud 100 Honorees have reached or exceeded $100 million in annual recurring revenue making them cloud Centaurs. An additional 10% of the list is expected to hit this milestone by the end of the year, furthering our conviction that this year's honorees truly represent the best cloud companies globally."

"Great companies are born out of all environments, and it's exciting to see the continued momentum in the cloud sector," said Alex Kayyal, Managing Partner, Salesforce Ventures. "The companies on this list have gone through a rigorous selection process, and join an esteemed alumni list of Cloud 100 companies. As the need for digital transformation continues to drive innovation and efficiencies across industries, we can look to these companies as the absolute best in cloud computing."

The Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 and 20 Rising Stars lists are published online at www.forbes.com/cloud100. Highlights of the list appear in the August/September 2022 issue of Forbes magazine.

About Webflow

Webflow is the leading visual development platform for building powerful websites without writing code. By combining modern web development technologies into one platform, Webflow enables people to build websites visually, saving engineering time, while clean code seamlessly generates in the background. From independent designers and creative agencies to Fortune 500 companies, millions worldwide use Webflow to be more nimble, creative, and collaborative. Webflow powers websites for innovative companies like Zendesk, Lattice, Getaround, Upwork, Allianz, and Dell. Founded in 2013 and based in San Francisco, Webflow is backed by Accel, CapitalG, Silversmith Capital Partners, Y-Combinator, and Draper Associates. Learn more at webflow.com or contact [email protected].

Bessemer Venture Partners

Bessemer Venture Partners helps entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to build and forge long-standing companies. With more than 135 IPOs and 200 portfolio companies in the enterprise, consumer and healthcare spaces, Bessemer supports founders and CEOs from their early days through every stage of growth. Bessemer's global portfolio includes Pinterest, Shopify, Twilio, Yelp, LinkedIn, PagerDuty, DocuSign, Wix, Fiverr and Toast and has $19 billion of regulatory assets under management. Bessemer has teams of investors and partners located in Tel Aviv, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York, London, Boston, Beijing and Bangalore. Born from innovations in steel more than a century ago, Bessemer's storied history has afforded its partners the opportunity to celebrate and scrutinize its best investment decisions (see Memos) and also learn from its mistakes (see Anti-Portfolio).

About Forbes

Forbes champions success by celebrating those who have made it, and those who aspire to make it. Forbes convenes and curates the most influential leaders and entrepreneurs who are driving change, transforming business and making a significant impact on the world. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 150 million people worldwide through its trusted journalism, signature LIVE and Forbes Virtual events, custom marketing programs and 47 licensed local editions in 80 countries. Forbes Media's brand extensions include real estate, education and financial services license agreements.

Salesforce Ventures

Salesforce Ventures helps enterprising founders build companies that reinvent the way the world works. Since 2009, we've invested in and partnered with more than 400 of the world's most tenacious enterprise software companies from seed to IPO, including Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, Guild Education, Hopin, monday.com, nCino, Snowflake, Snyk, Stripe, Tanium, and Zoom. Salesforce Ventures leverages our decades of expertise in the cloud and our long-term relationships with key decision-makers at thousands of businesses around the world to give our portfolio companies an unfair advantage, help them build credibility, and accelerate growth. Salesforce Ventures has invested in more than 25 countries with offices all over the world including in San Francisco, Irvine, New York, London, Tokyo, and Sydney. Follow @SalesforceVC and learn more at http://www.salesforceventures.com.

SOURCE Webflow
NEW YORK, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

This lawsuit is on behalf of persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Wells Fargo common stock between February 24, 2021 and June 9, 2022.

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: August 29, 2022

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in WFC:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/wells-fargo-wfc-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=30643&from=4

Wells Fargo & Company NEWS - WFC NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Wells Fargo & Company made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Wells Fargo had misrepresented its commitment to diversity in the Company's workplace; (ii) Wells Fargo conducted fake job interviews in order to meet its Diverse Search Requirement; (iii) the foregoing conduct subjected Wells Fargo to an increased risk of regulatory and/or governmental scrutiny and enforcement action, including criminal charges; (iv) all of the foregoing, once revealed, was likely to negatively impact Wells Fargo's reputation; and (v) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Wells Fargo you have until August 29, 2022 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Wells Fargo securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the WFC lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/wells-fargo-wfc-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=30643&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

Empire State Building

350 Fifth Avenue

59th Floor

New York, NY 10118

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Whirlpool Corp. was recently recognized as one of Seramount's 2022 Best Companies for Multicultural Women. This award recognizes companies that create and use the best hiring practices while retaining and promoting multicultural women in the United States.

"Inclusion and Diversity is a core value at Whirlpool Corporation because we know that drawing from diverse points of view improves our products, services, our teams, and each other," said Sr. Director of Inclusion and Diversity and Global Learning Kim Kavala. "We recognize we are on an ongoing journey and we are committed to bold goals and meaningful action to cultivate an even stronger inclusive and diverse workplace, as well as in the communities where we work and live. Inclusion creates a culture of belonging, diversity makes us better."

With 80 companies on the list, the 2022 Seramount report found that there has been significant progress over past years in regards to diversity. Multicultural Women now represent 24 percent of the workforce and are continuing to grow. Progress at the managerial levels is attributed to upticks in programs and policies in recognizing ERG leadership, formal sponsorship, succession planning, and accountability.

This year's Best Companies for Multicultural Women employ about 2 million people at 37,000 work sites in every state across 16 industries. The survey for this year continued to assess progress for women by specific racial/ethnic groups as well as factors influencing that progress, including mental-health and anti-racism progress and mentoring and sponsorship participation.

The application for Best Companies for Multicultural Women includes more than 500 questions on representation; hiring, attrition, and promotion rates; recruitment, retention, and advancement programs; and company culture. Seramounts scoring algorithm is based on the previous year's benchmark results, which then determine the winners.

About Whirlpool Corporation:

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is committed to being the best global kitchen and laundry company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home. In an increasingly digital world, the company is driving purposeful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, JennAir, Indesit and Yummly. In 2021, the company reported approximately $22 billion in annual sales, 69,000 employees and 54 manufacturing and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

SOURCE Whirlpool Corporation
Jonathan Rubin of venture capital fund Phyto Partners joins Willow Industries as Board Advisor

DENVER, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Willow Industries Inc. , the leader in cannabis kill-step and decontamination technology, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Rubin to its Board of Advisors. Jonathan joins a team of cannabis, venture capital, and biotechnology trailblazers who have helped solidify Willow Industries as a pillar of quality assurance and innovation in the cannabis industry.

Since 2018, Jonathan has analyzed more than 1,000 cannabis investment opportunities at Phyto Partners and is responsible for deal sourcing, due diligence, portfolio company monitoring, and investor reporting. Previously, he worked as an analyst at Comvest Partners, a majority buyout focused Private Equity firm with $8 billion under management, where he was responsible for identifying, originating, and qualifying new investment opportunities. He graduated with a degree in Finance from the University of Florida.

"The addition of Jonathan to our team of advisors is an exciting move for the future of Willow Industries," said Jill Ellsworth, CEO and Founder of Willow. "His expertise in dynamic growth opportunities will bring tremendous value to the company as we continue to empower the cannabis industry with the premier technology for compliance and consumer safety."

About Willow Industries

Willow Industries is the cannabis industry leader in post-harvest microbial decontamination technology, bringing cultivators the solution they need to provide patients and consumers with consistently safe products. WillowPure, the company's patented, organic ozone-based technology, is scientifically proven to reduce or eliminate contaminants such as yeast, mold and bacteria from cannabis while protecting the medicinal properties of the plant. With the gentle yet effective decontamination technology, cultivators can meet quality standards, address underlying issues, and implement a preventative kill step. The company is ranked on the Inc 5000 list of the Fastest Growing Private Companies in America and in the top 50 on the 2022 Financial Times' list of The Americas' Fastest-Growing Companies.

SOURCE Willow Industries
Investments to accelerate productization and commercialization of wireless charging for electric vehicles and other products

WATERTOWN, Mass., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Building on the global growth in electric vehicles, support from governments around the world for electrification  now including the US  and the recognized need for better EV charging solutions to expand EV adoption, WiTricity has just completed a new funding round of $63 million. Anchored by a $25 million investment from industrial giant Siemens AG, the round includes investments from Japan Energy Fund, Mirae Asset Capital, and returning investors Stage One, Airwaves Wireless Electricity, and Delta Electronics among others.

"WiTricity has built a true technology platform supported by a robust patent portfolio and global automotive standards." Tweet this WiTricity closes a new funding round with $63 Million investment with a focus on accelerating the productization and commercialization of wireless charging for electric vehicles and other products.

"WiTricity has built a true technology platform supported by a robust patent portfolio and global automotive standards," said Alex Gruzen, CEO, WiTricity. "This new capital will allow us to accelerate product to market for both passenger and commercial wireless charging, and speed the development of our unique always-available wireless V2G capabilities allowing parked EVs to return power to the grid."

WiTricity was founded out of MIT in 2007 to commercialize the use of magnetic resonance to transmit power over distance at any power level. The company has developed the industry's most robust global patent portfolio, over 1250 issued patents, including the acquisition of the wireless charging assets of Qualcomm Halo in 2019. WiTricity is now expanding beyond licensing to delivering full wireless charging solutions for its customers including global OEMs fleets, changepoint operators, and end customers.

"With the recent increase in EV uptake in Japan, we see a strong need for technologies that offer simple charging solutions for drivers," said Yohei Kiguchi, Founder and CEO of Japan Energy Fund and ENECHANGE Ltd. "WiTricity's technology does exactly that. We are confident that wireless charging will be a gamechanger, and by inspiring more consumers to choose EVs over traditional combustion engines, lead to further decarbonization."

Wireless EV charging key to accelerating EV adoption

In a recent survey , 96 percent of EV buyers indicated they want wireless charging capabilities on their next EV, which ranked significantly higher than other common options, including parking assist, autonomous driving capability, and interior or exterior design.

"EV ownership in the US is still among 'early adopters,'" said David Baum of Stage 1 Ventures. "Wireless charging will accelerate that adoption by mainstream consumers by eliminating the hassle of charging."

"WiTricity's wireless charging is a key component to truly reinventing the driving experience with electric cars," said Jonathan Hwang, Director at Mirae Asset Capital. "Korean drivers expect genuine break-through innovation for great convenience, safety, and accessibility, and wireless charging will provide just that."

The current macroeconomic conditions make electric vehicles more attractive to consumers and to businesses, increasing the need to make the overall experience safer, more convenient, and truly accessible. Wireless charging for electric vehicles in commercial settings can reduce total cost of operation and has been deployed around the globe in limited pilots. With this investment, WiTricity will shift into production for fleets of all sizes  passenger vehicles, light-duty trucks, and heavy commercial vehicles alike -- at a variety of energy levels. Wireless charging will play a key role in the transition to autonomous vehicles and to supporting grid stability with wireless vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies.

WiTricity technology powers wireless charging beyond electric vehicles

WiTricity technology spans from milliwatts to kilowatts and can be found in products today from consumer electronics to industrial robotics. WiTricity is a member of MPEG LA's Qi Wireless Power Portfolio as a licensor of patents essential to the practice of the Qi Wireless Power Standard. Most recently, WiTricity has licensed its technology to Wiferion, a leading solution provider for mobile, wireless power supplies for industrial e-vehicles. The applications of WiTricity technology beyond EVs are limitless with licensees already producing products such as wirelessly charged factory robots, eScooters and eBikes.

"For decades we've eliminated wires from people's lives, from mobile phones to Wi-Fi. The last wires to be eliminated are for charging EVs, eScooters, eBikes, factory automation and other products," said Kenneth Horowitz of Air Waves Wireless Electricity and one of the founders of the cellular telephone industry. "WiTricity will remove these last wires for an untethered future."

WiTricity last raised $52 million in 2021 with investors including Stage 1 Ventures, Air Waves Wireless Electricity, Mitsubishi Corporation, Future Shape, among others.

For more information about WiTricity, visit www.WiTricity.com.

About WiTricity

WiTricity is the trailblazer in wireless charging for electric vehicles, leading the development and implementation of magnetic resonance technology across passenger and commercial vehicles alike. The company's technology is backed by an extensive patent portfolio and is the foundation for ratified global EV wireless charging standards including SAE, ISO and GB. Automakers and Tier 1 suppliers turn to WiTricity to help accelerate the adoption of EVs by eliminating the hassle of plug-in charging, enabling always-available wireless V2G, and setting the stage for future autonomy. Beyond EVs, WiTricity technology is essential to the wireless charging of all products, from consumer electronics to micro-mobility to robotics.

SOURCE WiTricity
DALLAS, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ - Wolverine Interests, a Dallas-based real estate investment firm, and Peakhill Equity Partners, a Toronto-based real estate investment manager, are pleased to announce the closing of the acquisition of Riverside Commons, a six-building class A office campus totaling over 468,000 square feet in the Las Colinas Urban Center in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Riverside Commons spans approximately 18 acres, including a 4.7-acre future development land site, and is strategically located adjacent to DFW Airport. The office campus, which was recently renovated and is over 90% leased, offers modern office space, first-class amenities, and ample structured parking. This project marks the first joint venture between Wolverine Interests and Peakhill Equity Partners. Veritex Bank financed the acquisition, which was brokered by Newmark Group.

Comment from Wolverine Interests

"This is a great opportunity for us to invest in a quality asset along with a quality investment firm in Peakhill. We plan to do many more things together. We have always held the Las Colinas area in high regard, and this gives us another property there. This property has been a staple for the area and we plan to continue with its success." said Jim Leslie, Managing Principal of Wolverine Interests.

Comment from Peakhill Equity Partners

"We are excited to partner with Wolverine Interests, who is one of the most experienced operators in the North Dallas market. We see an opportunity to invest in a great asset in one of the top employment centers in the County," said Jonah Belkin, Managing Director of Peakhill Equity Partners.

About Wolverine Interests

Wolverine Interests is a Dallas, Texas-based commercial real estate development and investment firm led by industry veterans with a deep understanding of complex financing, master development and management expertise, focused on office, multifamily and mixed-use developments. Led by a senior investment and management team with 40 years average experience in broad-based commercial real estate as developers, owners, and operators, Wolverine Interests brings extensive expertise to every project. Wolverine specializes in office, multifamily, and mixed-use development, office acquisition/disposition, complex financing, tenant representation, and brokerage.

About Peakhill Equity Partners

Peakhill Equity Partners is a real estate investment platform focused on joint venture equity investments in ground-up and value-add real estate projects in the United States and Canada. Through its entrepreneurial structure, flexible balance sheet, development expertise, and lending arm (Peakhill Capital), Peakhill Equity Partners is able to identify equity investment opportunities with superior risk-adjusted returns that positively impact communities.

SOURCE Peakhill Equity Partners
The board of the Monks Investment Trust PLC (LSE:MNKS) has agreed to merge with the assets of The Independent Investment Trust PLC.

Shareholders in IIT will be able to receive ordinary shares in Monks and/or realise a proportion or all of their holding for cash, with the latter at a 2% discount based on a formula asset value or FAV.

After Max Ward, IIT's managing director and full-time portfolio manager, recently revealed that he wished to retire, the board of the trust said it carefully considered the various options available and decided that a combination with Monks offered the greatest benefit to IIT shareholders" given the impact that the retirement would have on the company.

The directors of IIT, who own circa 24.3% of its issued share capital, said they intend to recommend the deal to shareholders and to elect to receive shares in Monks for the full extent of their holdings.

Monks, which would continue to be managed by Baillie Gifford, would benefit from economies of scale and an inflow of cash that could be redeployed at a potentially advantageous stage of the performance, discount and market cycles, the Monks board said in a statement.

The Monks managers have assessed IITs portfolio of a collection of UK growth stocks for potential upside and portfolio fit.

IIT's board noted that Ballie Gifford's Global Alpha team, which took over the management of Monks in 2015, has a strong long term record, and the wide diversification of the portfolio, beyond the resources of IIT, with the trust possessing assets of 2.5bn at the end of June.
Berkshire Hathaway Inc (NYSE:BRK.B) increased its stake in Occidental Petroleum to 20% - meaning Warren Buffets conglomerate could include the hydrocarbon explorers earnings in its own results.

A filing yesterday showed Berkshire Hathaway paid nearly US$381mln for 6.7mln shares, giving it 118.4mln shares in total worth US$11.3bn via an equity method of accounting, according to Reuters.

Analysts at Refinitiv I/B/E/S, cited by Reuters, expect Occidental to generate roughly US$10.5bn in profit this year - with some also predicting Berkshire could look to eventually bid for the entire company.

Berkshire already owned US$10bn of Occidental preferred stock and has warrants to buy a further 83.9mln common shares for US$5bn.

Shares in Occidental more than doubled this year due to rising oil prices after Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Shares closed at US$60.04 yesterday.
Latin Resources Ltd (ASX:LRS) is an exploration company with several mineral resource projects in Latin America and Australia.

The companys Australian projects include the Yarara Gold Project in the NSW Lachlan Fold Belt, Noombenberry Halloysite Project near Merredin, WA, and the Big Grey Project in the Paterson Range region, WA.

Latin recently signed a JV agreement with the Argentinian company Integra Capital to fund the next phase of exploration on its lithium pegmatite projects in Catamarca, Argentina and is actively progressing its Copper Porphyry MT03 project in the Ilo region.
Meeka Metals Ltd (ASX:MEK) has completed the sale of the Gecko North Project (E15/1587) to LithGold Minerals Ltd (formerly Origin Gold Mines Ltd).

Meeka will bank $230,000 in cash, plus 1.5% net smelter return royalty over all minerals extracted from the property.

The company has already received $130,000, with a further $100,000 due in February 2023.

Freed up to advance drilling and exploration

The sale was part of Meekas strategy for disciplined capital allocation.

The money gained will be used to advance drilling and development activities within its portfolio of high quality 100%-owned projects across Western Australia.

We continually evaluate our portfolio of high-quality projects to ensure capital is allocated where it will deliver most value. Where there is an opportunity to monetise noncore assets at fair value, and refocus capital on higher value outcomes, we will act on those opportunities, Meeka managing director Tim Davidson said.

With material results being delivered from our ongoing work in the Murchison, successful gold drilling in the Albany-Fraser and the emerging opportunity in rare earths, Gecko North no longer fit into our portfolio.

News on the horizon

With its time and cash freed up, Meeka has a busy schedule ahead over the next six months and beyond and investors can expect plenty of news:

August  September 2022: Assays from the remaining 13,796 metres of drilling for high-grade rare earths at Circle Valley.

August  October 2022: Gold assays from Murchison Gold Project drilling.

September 2022: Pre-feasibility study for the Murchison Gold Project.

September 2022: Audited annual report.

October 2022: Quarterly activity report.

December 2022: Gold assays from Circle Valley (Anomaly A) extensional drilling.

January  March 2023: Rare earth assays from Circle Valley infill drilling.

About Meeka

Meeka is a gold and rare earths company. Its flagship Murchison Gold Project has a combined 343-square-kilometre landholding in the prolific Murchison Gold Fields and hosts a large high-grade 1.1=million-ounce JORC resource. The company is actively growing these resources while also progressing toward production. The release of the Murchison Gold Project scoping study in December 2021 outlined a robust project that produces more than 420,000 ounces of gold.

Meeka also owns the Circle Valley Project in the Albany-Fraser Mobile Belt (also host to the Tropicana gold mine  3 million ounces of past production). Gold mineralisation has been identified in four separate locations at Circle Valley and presents an exciting growth opportunity, which is being aggressively pursued.

One the rare earths front, Meeka controls the Cascade Rare Earths Project (2,068 square kilometres) in a region rapidly emerging as a highly prospective clay rare earths province. Importantly, the results to date contain high levels of permanent magnet metals being neodymium-praseodymium oxides. These metals are geopolitically critical, and Meeka intends to accelerate its understanding of Cascade by commencing initial metallurgical work. Furthermore, drilling will be ongoing.
Latin Resources Ltd (ASX:LRS) has embarked on the next chapter at its Salinas Lithium Project in Brazil after appointing a leading mining consultant to kick off feasibility studies.

SGS Geological Services (SGS) will carry out metallurgical test-work, a JORC mineral resource estimate and a preliminary economic assessment (PEA) at Salinas Colina prospect, bringing the company one step closer to developing its core lithium asset.

The Colina PEA is being run in parallel with the current diamond drilling program, which is designed to establish the maiden JORC resource that will feed into the feasibility studies.

Latin Resources also plans to commission SGS to build a pilot plant to produce a representative sample of lithium concentrate product.

Once the PEA is in hand, Latin expects it can fast-track the Salinas project to the definitive feasibility study (DFS) phase.

Proven track record

Speaking to progress at Salinas, Latin managing director Chris Gale said today: We are extremely pleased to have engaged SGS Geological Services as an integral part of the development team 

This appointment is an important milestone in the future development of the Colina prospect.

SGS is a well-respected group with a proven track record of delivering high-quality studies and projects.

They have vast experience in the region, with the recent successful completion of Sigmas DFS. Their recent and very relevant experience will help Latin to fast track the development of our Salinas project.

Next on the agenda

Latin expects to deliver its maiden JORC mineral resource for Colina by years end and complete the PEA by March 2023.

Once the environmental assessment is in the can, it can work on completing a DFS by Christmas next year.

The company also plans to commission SGS to build a dense media separation pilot plant in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, and provide potential offtake customers with a representative lithium concentrate product.

So far, Latin has held preliminary discussions with several international car and battery manufacturers and leading lithium trading houses about the future supply of its lithium product.

Now that it has decided to fast-track the feasibility studies, the company is one step closer to inking offtake agreements with suitable customers.

Gale continued: Latin Resources is aiming to become one of the key lithium players to feed the worlds insatiable appetite for battery metals.

The high level of inquiry we are fielding from potential offtake customers shows that they very much value the quality of Colinas lithium grade and tenure, which gives them confidence of Salinass potential to become a significant lithium project.
Valor Resources Ltd (ASX:VAL) has identified six high-priority drill targets from its recent airborne gravity survey and historical data review of the Hidden Bay Uranium Project, situated 20 kilometres south-southwest of the historical Rabbit Lake Mine in the Athabasca Basin, Canada.

The companys airborne gravity survey was designed to identify gravity lows that can be caused by clay alteration of the host rock, potentially due to hydrothermal fluids associated with unconformity uranium deposits.

In addition, the review of historical exploration data also confirmed the prospective targets from geological mapping, surface sampling, diamond drilling and reprocessed geophysical data.

With reconnaissance field work completed, Valor will conduct follow-up field programs and radon surveys over the targets in August.

Best opportunities

Valor executive chairman George Bauk said: The Hidden Bay Project presents as one of Valors best opportunities in the Athabasca uranium province.

The recent review of the historical data has highlighted several excellent untested structural targets that have now been confirmed by the recently flown gravity survey.

These targets will be prioritised for first pass drilling following the completion of radon surveys.

The targets at Hidden Bay have been identified as high priority based on Valors geophysical consultants' significant work experience in the Athabasca Basin with major companies.

Reconnaissance field work and airborne gravity survey

Valor has completed a reconnaissance field visit and an airborne gravity gradiometry (AGG) survey covering the entire Hidden Bay Uranium Project area.

A total of 416 line kilometres were flown at a line spacing of 150 metres.

Final data has been received and processing of the data has revealed several high-order anomalies.

The airborne gravity survey was designed to identify gravity lows.

Hydrothermally clay-altered host rocks associated with unconformity uranium deposits will have a lower density than the surrounding rocks and will present as gravity lows.

Historical data review

The data review considered all data within the mineral claim as well as uranium deposits within a 50-kilometre radius that have a similar geological setting to the project area.

The identified deposits have been reviewed in detail to assist in target generation.

The historic exploration activity at Hidden Bay has been sporadic, reflecting higher uranium pricing periods in the uranium cycle.

Bauk adds: We are just 20 kilometres south of the historic Rabbit Lake Uranium mine and Hidden Bay looks to be in a similar geological setting.

The Cameco owned Rabbit Lake Uranium Mine was the longest running uranium mine in North America with over 41 years of mining, producing over 203 million pounds of uranium concentrate. While Rabbit Lake is currently closed, current indicated resources sit at 1.836 million tonnes grading 0.95% U3O8 for 38.6 million pound of contained metal (Cameco Corp. Website: Resources as of December 31, 2021).

The Rabbit Lake deposit represents our primary exploration target type given our similar geological and geophysical setting, with an opportunity to discover both basement and unconformity-style uranium deposits.

There has been one hole drilled in 35 years, highlighting the lack of exploration at this project and the broader region and the advancement of modern exploration techniques that provide significant data that simply was not available in previous exploration programs.
Clean TeQ Water Ltd (ASX:CNQ) shares rose 6% intra-day to $0.62 after signing an exclusive global technology licence agreement with Soane Labs LLC for its Accelerated Dewatering Technology, known as ATA.

The agreement provides Clean TeQ with an exclusive global licence to exploit the ATA technology, along with an option to purchase the technology at Clean TeQs discretion within 18 months.

Clean TeQ will complete due diligence and initiate a pilot-scale demonstration to validate the performance and economics of the technology during the 18-month evaluation period.

CEO William Vriesendorp said: We are pleased to have reached this agreement with Soane Labs, for what we believe is an incredibly exciting and versatile suite of technologies that will strongly position our company to provide new solutions in mine waste management.

Licensing the ATA technology complements our existing strategy of identifying technologies that apply low-cost solutions to address large-scale problems and with a minimal energy footprint.

Licence terms

The licence terms involve payment by Clean TeQ to Soane Labs of up to A$300,000 over 18 months.

If Clean TeQ exercises its option to purchase the technology, it will pay Soane Labs A$3 million in cash or shares, or a combination thereof, at the election of Clean TeQ.

The licensing agreement is effective immediately and will be supplemented by a consulting services agreement for Soane Labs to provide ongoing support to Clean TeQ for the duration of the licence.

Rapid separation of water and solids

The ATA technology was developed to provide a safe and low-cost mine tailings treatment process by rapidly separating water and solids to produce stackable tailings and recycled water.

ATA uses smart chemistry to rapidly agglomerate the solids in ore slurries.

The solids are screen filtered and dewatered under their own gravity or, alternatively, low-pressure filters can be used for dewatering.

The resulting materials can be compressed and stacked, with the extracted water being returned to recycle, dramatically reducing water usage.

In underground mining operations, the compact material may also be used for backfill, with or without cement.

Enormous" market opportunity

Mine waste dewatering presents an enormous market opportunity, according to Clean TeQ.

Dewatering presents a significant environmental and safety challenge at many mine sites around the world, particularly those located in tropical climates where natural evaporation rates are low, or where seismic activity increases geotechnical risks.

Also, as environmental bonding requirements increase in response to higher perceived risk in managing tailings storage facilities, it will be rapid and low-cost dewatering technologies, like ATA, that will become key pillars of delivering on the mining industrys ESG ambitions.

Clean TeQ believes that chemistry-based solutions to mine waste dewatering provide a far better outcome than mechanical-based processes.

Current technologies employ a mix of high-pressure filtration and/or mechanical evaporation to remove water from slurry, which is both capital and energy intensive.

Base and precious metals applications

Clean TeQ sees further benefits from the ATA technology where it can be used in conjunction with its proprietary ion exchange systems (Clean-iX) to recover valuable metals as part of a holistic mining rehabilitation program.

The ATA technology is already deployed in applications in South Africa for the rapid dewatering of mine tailings.

These current applications will continue to be owned by Soane Labs, but the clients will be managed by Clean TeQ in the future based on an agreed revenue sharing arrangement.

In addition, Clean TeQ is currently testing the ATA technologies in base metals and precious metals applications.

The intention is to deploy the technology at potential client sites in coming months for pilot-scale testing.
Aldoro Resources Ltd (ASX:ARN) is trading higher after encountering the thickest pegmatite zones to date from its maiden reverse circulation (RC) drill program at the Wyemandoo Critical Metal Project.

The company has completed a total of 29 RC holes across 3,918 metres, intersecting multiple pegmatite zones up to 30 metres thick at Wyemandoo.

Standout assays include:

5 metres pegmatite from 75 metres;

11 metres pegmatite from 108 metres;

6 metres pegmatite from 106 metres;

8 metres pegmatite from 91 metres; and

7 metres pegmatite from 106 metres.

Notably, drilling at the Wyemandoo Dome 2 target has encountered rich purple lepidolite mineralisation, defining areas that could host rubidium and lithium mineralisation.

Consequently, these intersections have helped the company understand the project's pegmatite orientation and plan for a follow-up drilling program at Wyemandoo.

Aldoro shares are up 27.3% to 28 cents in mid-afternoon trade.

Drill program

Aldoros initial 3500-metre program comprised 48 holes, ranging between 80 to 150 metres in depth on azimuths of 145 degrees and dips of -60 degrees based on mapping.

In June, the company intersected shallow zones of lithium mineralisation, with the majority of holes intersecting pegmatites of various intervals from less than one metre to six metres with pegmatite country-rock zones of up to 19 metres.

Encouraged by the results, the company increased the drilling program to 6,000 metres.

About Aldoro

Aldoro has a portfolio of gold and nickel-focused advanced exploration projects, all in Western Australia.

The companys flagship project is the Narndee Igneous Complex, which is prospective for nickel-copper-PGE mineralisation.

Other projects include the Cathedrals Belt Nickel Project, with a large tenement holding surrounding St George Mining Ltd (ASX:SGQ)s Mt Alexander Project, the Leinster Nickel Project and the Windimurra Igneous Complex that is prospective for nickel-copper-PGE and lithium.
As of today, Tuesday August 9, any US citizen caught using cryptocurrency mixing protocol Tornado Cash is in breach of sanctions law and could face millions in criminal charges or even jail time.

The US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) placed the Ethereum-based privacy protocol on the official sanctions list under suspicions that over US$7bn was laundered through the protocol since 2019.

Cited in the allegations were over US$455 in funds stolen by North Korean state-sponsored hackers and US$96mln stolen from the Harmony Bridge Heist.

Treasury is sanctioning Tornado Cash, a virtual currency mixer that launders the proceeds of cybercrimes, including those committed against victims in the United States, read the press statement.

The statement continued: Despite public assurances otherwise, Tornado Cash has repeatedly failed to impose effective controls designed to stop it from laundering funds for malicious cyber actors on a regular basis and without basic measures to address its risks.

Tornado Cash founder Roman Semenov was booted from Github, the official website has been taken down, and TORN token fell by 30% in a day.

My @GitHub account was just suspended ????



Is writing an open source code illegal now?  Roman Semenov ???? ???????? (@semenov_roman_) August 8, 2022

Now what happens?

What is Tornado Cash?

While the sanctions come as a surprise, few were shocked by the latest clampdown.

Tornado Cash, In industry parlance, is (was?) whats known as a mixer.

Mixers facilitate anonymous crypto transactions by obfuscating their origin, destination, and counterparties, with no attempt to determine their origin, according to OFAC.

In slightly more technical terms, Tornado Cash employs the use of zero-knowledge proofs, which are algorithms allowing for transactions to be processed without linking the transaction back to the sender.

The mixing element comes into play as such:

Pru wants to send Barry 1 ETH

Thats easy enough to trace, but what if:

Pru wants to send Barry 1 ETH

Matt wants to send Billy 1 ETH and

Sloane wants to send Maddy 1 ETH

With a mixer, we can theoretically jumble these transactions up, and the end result is the same!

Tornado Cash expands this trick out to many thousands of transactions, making third-party traceability essentially impossible.

Its extremely clever in its simplicity, but is it ethical?

Certainly not according to OFAC, but many within the crypto community arent necessarily big fans either, not least due to the open secret that Tornado Cash was a breeding ground for criminal behaviour.

The ethics of Tornado Cash

One of the founding principles of Bitcoin and by extension cryptocurrency is Dont trust, verify

Our bank statement is "don't trust, verify"  Bitcoin (@Bitcoin) June 21, 2020

Since Tornado Cash transactions cannot be verified by anyone, doesnt it go against one of the key crypto commandments?

Id argue in favour of that, for anonymity and pseudonymity are two different principles; while the latter is central to crypto, the former is not.

There is also a legal question: Tornado Cash is not a company, a country, individual, and certainly not an aircraft  its a piece of open-source code  so how does it fit into the sanctions list?

OFAC has worked around this by banning not the entity itself, but the smart contracts that make up the platform.

This has at least some precedent in that Bitcoin addresses of known criminals have regularly been added to the sanctions list in the past.

But unlike Bitcoin addresses, a smart contract address is not owned by an individual; it is a neutral piece of code.

The legal debate over placing sanctions on smart contracts is sure to be one to watch.

Vitalik (partially) defends Tornado Cash

Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin has come out in quasi defence of Tornado Cash, Tweeting that the protocol proved useful in donating to the Ukrainian war effort.

Herein lies one key defence of the protocol: Could a platform that allows people to skirt authoritarianism and channel funds to people in need really be so bad?

When weighing up the positive and the negatives, the scales will, undoubtedly, lean to one side or another depending on the individual.

Privacy coins in the spotlight

Tornado Cash is far from the only privacy protocol available to bad (and good) actors.

The multi-billion-dollar Monero coin uses different algorithms (called ring signatures) to achieve the same result as Tornado Cash.

ZCash, on the other hand, uses the same zero-knowledge proof method as Tornado Cash to obfuscate transactions.

These are both popular privacy coins, but a far bigger  nay the biggest  crypto platform could also be looking into zero-knowledge proofs.

Ethereums head honcho Vitalik Buterin has been talking up zero-knowledge proofs from as far back as 2017, and with the Ethereum Foundations constant tinkering with and upgrading of the underlying Ethereum technology, perhaps they are in the pipeline.

Whether OFAC will follow with sanctions in tow is anyones guess.
White Rock Minerals Ltd (ASX:WRM, OTCQX:WRMCF) has demonstrated the golden potential of its Morning Star Gold Mine after intersecting more than 300 g/t of the precious metal.

The Victoria-focused gold explorer has recorded more high-grade gold hits  measuring 0.2 metres at 312 g/t and 0.3 metres at 222 g/t  during exploratory drilling along strike from the McNally Reef structure, highlighting a potentially significant high-grade gold zone to the south, close to existing development.

Overall, White Rock says its drill results are consistently uncovering high-grade material in previously mined sections of the Morning Star mine.

Promisingly, this is in addition to the initial high-grade intersections its identified in the Gap Zone, which has endured minimal drilling and has not been previously mined.

Whats next?

White Rock is determined to revive gold production at the Morning Star underground mine, and to progress this vision, its started pre-production development at the McNally Reef structure, paving the way for future gold production.

Here, mining activities are focused on delivering high-grade tonnes to the gold plant for processing, sourced from multiple working faces underground across several mining areas. White Rock has identified five such mining areas to date.

The gold explorer has also begun plant pre-production commissioning works, where low-grade material is being processed.

Nowadays, White Rock is in the middle of optimisation works to improve the overall plant performance in preparation for higher-grade material processing.

All things considered, initial gold production at Morning Star remains on track to kick off this quarter.
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The summit is being planned as an exclusive event featuring discussions about frontier technologies, the metaverse and Web3 development

Looking Glass Labs Ltd (LGL) has announced that Dorian Banks, its chief executive officer, has been invited to attend the Frontier Summit in Vancouver, British Columbia occurring from August 9-10, 2022.

The summit is being planned as an exclusive event featuring discussions about frontier technologies, the metaverse and Web3 development, as well as the future of the worlds economy. Banks will have the opportunity to connect with founders, investors and leaders with similar missions and goals rooted in Web3 technologies and the internet.

It is an honour to be invited to attend the summit as a representative of the company and House of Kibaa. Im looking forward to engaging in rewarding and educational sessions and activities and getting to meet other leaders in the Web3 space, Banks said in a statement

Also, the opportunity to connect with potential investors who are dedicated to improving and supporting the Web3 and metaverse industries will be positive for the company, its future projects and collaborations, he added.

Taking place on the Neighborhood Patio at the Bentall Centre in Vancouver, the first day of the summit includes industry sessions from highly anticipated speakers and leaders including Amy Peck, CEO of EndeavorXR; Kate Wilson from the Vancouver Tech Journal; and Lucas Wilson, CEO of Supersphere.

The second day of the summit includes industry sessions led by Shivam Kishore, co-founder of Frontier Collective and co-lead of Digital Transformation and Sustainability with the United Nations, as well as Ashley Smith from the Fame Lady Squad, the sessions of which will take place at Rosewood Hotel Georgia Vancouver.

Overall, the summit is designed to create connections, explore opportunities, and ultimately use frontier technologies to enhance the future. Attendees can also expect to network with investors and experience panels at the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola.

More information about the summit can be found on its website at https://www.frontiersummit.xyz/.

Frontier Collective is a coalition of leaders in tech, culture, and community that support the development of frontier technologies. Frontier technologies are cutting-edge advances that are created to change the way the world experiences, interacts and lives.

These technologies are on the brink of mainstream incorporation and Frontier Collective is working to integrate and encourage investment in these tools across all industries and businesses. The summit is held by Frontier Collective and is sponsored by a variety of companies including but not limited to Northeastern University: Vancouver, The Venture Reality Fund, and innovate.

Contact the author at jon.hopkins@proactiveinvestors.com
CULT Food Science said it will continue to work towards becoming a key aggregator for the cellular agriculture industry as it matures

CULT Food Science Corp (CSE:CULT, OTCQB:CULTF) has provided a project-based outlook for the remainder of 2022 and a summary of its most significant developments since it began trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange in January this year.

The investment company said its management expects innovative new intellectual property (IP) and ventures to be developed from its collaborations before the end of the calendar year.

In a statement, Lejjy Gafour, CEO of CULT said: "We continue to grow the key aspects of our cellular agriculture ecosystem and collaborate with our portfolio companies in order to evolve the field for the greater good."

CULT management is pleased with the progress that the company has made thus far, and we are excited about the possibilities that our new undertakings will provide the company in the near future as well as over the long term, he added.

CULT and its partner NewLab are creating a new ecosystem of businesses in the cellular agriculture space to address key gaps within the broader industry, where there is a clear need and validated technology that can be brought forward commercially, the company said.

Regarding its collaboration with New Harvest, CULT said it will continue to enhance the available knowledge and practices for the industry in an open manner, especially in cases where gaps in research knowledge exist that can accelerate the industry.

CULT said it continues to help advance many of the projects and ventures into which it has deployed capital, which may result in more announcements regarding new IP development or product commercialization.

As the company looks toward its longer-term strategy, management will continue to work towards becoming a key aggregator for the cellular agriculture industry as it matures. Through this aggregation-based strategy, CULT said it will strive to set itself apart as a leader in cell-based technology, sustainability, and innovation for food resilience.

Regarding the future of its investment portfolio, CULT said it will continue to assess market opportunities with a focus on sustainability, long-term impact and commercial applicability.

By identifying themes within the cellular agriculture industry and in the broader market, CULT said it will continue to see both clear problem statements and possible solutions that can be brought forward through new IP developments and investments in new companies to help fill identified gaps.

The company listed some of its most notable highlights so far in 2022:

Provided strategic funding to the first animal-free collagen and gelatin ingredient company, Jellatech;

Invested in a leading cell-based chocolate innovator, California Cultured, which uses cell culture technology with the goal of creating sustainable and ethical chocolate for consumption around the world;

Completed a seed investment in De Novo Dairy, a precision fermentation dairy company that aims to create cell-based ice cream, yogurt, and cheese;

Entered into a letter of intent with Cella Food Systems to help the company accelerate its proprietary, cell-based, product development capabilities;

Became included in the VegTechO Plant-Based Innovation and Climate Exchange-Traded Fund that is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol EATV;

Selected Sydsel Africa to join the CULT PRIZE Initiative in order to bolster its research and IP incubation platform;

Invested in a cell-based milk company, Opalia Co., which is the first Canadian company to produce cow milk from mammary cells;

Filed a provisional patent application regarding nutritional enhanced cultured meat;

Filed a provisional patent application regarding the addition of Omega 3 properties into cultured meat;

Invested in a cell-based oyster company, Pearlita Foods, which is the worlds first cell-based mollusk company;

Invested in a leading cultivated meat company, MeaTech 3D, that is focused on developing and licensing its proprietary three-dimensional printing and customizable biotechnology manufacturing processes to food processing and retail companies seeking to manufacture proteins in a more ethical manner;

Invested in Unicorn Biotechnologies Limited, a cell manufacturing company, at the end of April;

Celebrated the listing of the shares of BSF Enterprise including its wholly owned subsidiary 3D Bio-Tissues Limited, on the London Stock Exchange on May 17, 2022;

Secured space for the development of an incubation studio in Ontario;

Invested in Change Foods, is a food-tech start-up company that focuses on animal-free dairy production;

Invested in Vevolution Media Production and Investment platform;

Joined the Newlab Cellular Agriculture Venture Studio as a partner and advisor;

Filed its third patent application to address global food insecurity;

Joined New Harvest in launching Open Cell Ag, a cellular agriculture network of excellence;

Announced an investment in Compound Foods on June 3, 2022, which is a cell-based coffee alternative production company;

Signed an LOI to acquire Food Revolution Media in mid-July

CULT Food Science is an innovative investment platform with an exclusive focus on cellular agriculture that is advancing the development of novel technologies to provide a sustainable, environmental, and ethical solution to the global factory farming crisis.

The first-of-its-kind in North America, CULT aims to provide individual investors with unprecedented exposure to the most innovative start-up, private or early-stage cultivated meat, cell-based dairy and other cultured food companies around the world.

Contact the author at jon.hopkins@proactiveinvestors.com
Mindset said it has engaged Clerkenwell Health as it makes headway in progressing MSP-1014, its Family 1 lead clinical candidate, towards first-in-human clinical trials

Mindset Pharma Inc (CSE:MSET, OTCQB:MSSTF) CEO James Lanthier has told investors that in the last six months, the biotech companys efforts in the psychedelic space have begun to deliver impressive innovations, partnerships, and feedback reinforcing the firms patent portfolio.

The Toronto-based drug discovery and development company is focused on creating novel, next-generation psychedelic and non-psychedelic medications to treat neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders.

In June 2022, Mindset announced its proprietary, patent-pending, intranasal formulation technology, which has the potential for improving the administration of central nervous system (CNS) medications, including first and subsequent generations of psychedelic medicines.

READ: Mindset Pharma is part of an exciting crop of psychedelics firms that are pushing next-generation opportunities

The intranasal formulation leverages Mindsets unique patent-pending platform technology and has been demonstrated to alter the pharmacokinetics profile of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) of first-generation psychedelic drug candidates, Lanthier said in a letter to shareholders.

The initial Proof-of-Concept (PoC) of our intranasal technology using 5-MeO-DMT showed promising results, he added.

Lanthier noted that the newly developed technology has the potential for reducing dose level, speeding uptake and out-take from the brain, and reducing peripheral side-effects, thereby enabling a more efficient, safer, and more cost-effective treatment delivery system.

In May of 2022, Mindset engaged a UK-based Contract Research Organization (CRO), Clerkenwell Health, to prepare for an initial scientific meeting with regulators from the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to discuss clinical development of Mindsets first psychedelic drug candidate  MSP-1014  a novel and patented second-generation psilocybin-like drug candidate.

It was key for us to engage Clerkenwell Health as we make headway in progressing MSP-1014, our Family 1 lead clinical candidate, towards First-in-Human clinical trials, noted Lanthier.

Mindset has also struck an innovative research collaboration with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), a top psychiatric research hospital based in Toronto, Canada.

We are sponsoring a preclinical study at CAMH on MSP-1014 alongside psilocybin. The study is interrogating how macro and micro doses of psychedelic compounds modulate expression levels of molecular biomarkers of brain plasticity in rats, said Lanthier.

Mindset said the researchers expect to uncover short and long-term changes in cFOS and BDNF expression that could underlie the long-term behavioral changes associated with a single psychedelic experience and develop molecular insights into the magnitude of effects of MSP-1014 compared to psilocybin.

In addition, Mindset has a partnership with the McQuade Center for Strategic Research and Development (MSRD), a member of the global Otsuka family of pharma companies, to provide ongoing funding of development expenses and top-tier CNS expertise needed to bring clinical candidates from both Mindsets Families 2 and 4 of next-generation psilocybin and 5-MeO-DMT compounds, respectively, through Phase 1a and Phase 1b human clinical trials.

This partnership with Otsuka, a global leader in bringing CNS medications to market, is an yet another incredible opportunity for Mindset, differentiating us from our peers in the psychedelic space, said Lanthier.

Most recently, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has granted allowance for Mindsets patent application number 17/387,864, titled '3-Pyrrolidine-Indole Derivatives as Serotonergic Psychedelic Agents for the Treatment of CNS Disorders'. Included within the application are drug candidates from Family 2, which are novel analogues of psilocybin that exhibit a range of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic improvements in pre-clinical studies.

Investors can learn more about Mindsets robust patent portfolio here.

Contact the author Uttara Choudhury at uttara@proactiveinvestors.com

Follow her on Twitter: @UttaraProactive
Moscow, Aug 9 : Russia has temporarily withdrawn its facilities from inspections under the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), the country's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

"Russia officially informed the United States ... that our country was temporarily withdrawing its facilities subject to inspections under this treaty from inspection activities," the Ministry added on Monday.

Moscow was forced to suspend inspections "as a result of Washington's persistent attempts to restart inspection activities" under unfair conditions, which created advantages for the US side, while simultaneously making it impossible for Russia to carry out inspections in the US.

Anti-Russian restrictions, imposed by Washington, have disrupted air travel between Russia and the US, making it impossible for Russian inspection teams to reach necessary destinations, the Ministry said.

The Ministry added that both sides must "abandon counterproductive attempts aimed at artificially speeding up the resumption of inspection activities" and focus on eliminating all existing problems in this area, Xinhua news agency reported.

It said that the measures were temporary, and would be cancelled if all existing issues were eliminated.

In 2010, Washington and Moscow signed the New START, which stipulates limits to the number of deployed nuclear warheads and strategic delivery systems by both.

The New START, the last remaining nuclear arms control treaty in force between the two nuclear superpowers, can be extended by a maximum of five years with the consent of the two countries. Russia and the US officially extended the treaty by five years on February 3, 2021.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
Kiev, Aug 9 : Ukraine is hoping for Germany's assistance in receiving 8 billion euros (about $8.17 billion) in aid from the European Union (EU), Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said.

"Germany will help Ukraine quickly receive the next 8 billion euros of macro-financial assistance from the EU and will take the lead in this process," Shmyhal wrote on Facebook this Monday after online talks with German Finance Minister Christian Lindner.

Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Germany has provided significant financial aid for Kiev, he said, without giving exact figures, Xinhua news agency reported.

Kiev is also counting on Germany's support in the efforts to postpone Ukraine's foreign debt payments and launch a new cooperation programme with the International Monetary Fund, the Ukrainian Prime Minister added.

On June 24, the European Commission announced plans to issue up to 9 billion euros in loans to support Ukraine under a new exceptional Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) program.

In early August, Ukraine received 1 billion euros of the aid package in two tranches.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
Washington, Aug 9 : The administration of US President Joe Biden has announced that the US will provide Ukraine with $1 billion worth of additional security assistance, the largest one-time weapons package since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

According to a statement by the Department of Defence, the package -- the 18th tranche of presidential drawdown since August 2021 -- included additional munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), 75,000 rounds of 155 mm artillery ammunition, 20 120 mm mortar systems and 20,000 rounds of 120 mm mortar ammunition, as well as munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), Xinhua news agency reported.

Washington will also deliver to Kiev 1,000 Javelins, hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems, 50 armoured medical treatment vehicles, anti-personnel munitions, explosives, demolition munitions and demolition equipment, the statement said.

The just-announced aid brings total US commitment of security assistance to Ukraine to nearly $9.8 billion since Biden took office, according to the Pentagon.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
Kaushambi : , Aug 9 (IANS) A 33-year-old woman bank manager suffered burn injuries in Uttar Pradesh's Kaushambi district following an acid attack by two unidentified bike-borne miscreants, police said.

The miscreants threw acid on the bank manager posted at a national bank in the Charwa area of Kaushambi district on Monday morning, police added.

The woman identified as Diksha Sonkar was riding on her scooty when she was waylaid by the assailants near Chilla Shahbazi village.

Kaushambi Superintendent of Police, Hemraj Meena, said, "An FIR has been registered against unidentified assailants on the complaint of the bank manager. We are looking at it from all angles to ascertain the facts and reasons behind the attack. Three different teams have been constituted to identify and nab the miscreants." The victim was taken to a nearby hospital first and after primary treatment was shifted to Swaroop Rani Nehru hospital in Prayagraj.

An FIR has been lodged and a hunt has been launched to identify and arrest the attackers, police officials said.

As the woman reached near Chilla Shahbazi village on her scooty, two bike-borne miscreants intercepted her and one of them threw acid on her before she could understand their motives. The two miscreants then fled on their bike.

Some locals and commuters tried to chase the miscreants but could not catch them.

The victim's helmet saved her face from the acid, but her legs and back sustained burn injuries. The bank staff also reached the spot and rushed the woman to the hospital with help of the police.

The police officials said that investigation was being carried out in connection with the attack.

The victim's mother told police that her marriage had been fixed recently. The police said, "We are looking at all possibilities, including any enmity with the family over the issue of marriage of their daughter."
Srinagar, Aug 9 : With the aim to cover left-out population of Srinagar district under the Central government's Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana-SEHAT Scheme (AB-PMJAY-SEHAT), a meeting of officers of all line departments was held under the chairmanship of the Srinagar Deputy Commissioner, Mohammed Aijaz Asad, government officials said.

During the meeting it was said that as many as 5,64,404 golden cards have been issued in Srinagar district covering 1,67,538 families and the process of registration under the Central scheme is underway and remaining beneficiaries will be brought under it within shortest possible time.

During the meeting, deliberations were held on the present status and progress made concerning implementation of AB-PMJAY-SEHAT in Srinagar.

The meeting also discussed the modalities for speeding up the registration for SEHAT scheme and directions were passed on to all the officials concerned for mass mobilisation to ensure all left-out population is covered under the scheme so that they are entitled to the benefits of the Golden card.

The District Deputy Commissioner directed all Zonal Medical Officers, Tehsil Supplies Officers to put in extra efforts and ensure mobilisation of left-out population within their respective jurisdictions with the assistance of concerned store keepers/fair price shop owners and Anganwadi workers.

This is done so that people are entitled to get the benefit of having Golden card at the time of need that provides free of cost Universal Health Insurance coverage up to Rs 5 lakh per family on a floater basis in convergence with Central government's AB-PMJAY scheme.
Washington, Aug 9 : Former US President Donald Trump has said that his residence in Florida has been "raided" by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

"My beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents," Trump added on Monday in a statement released through his political action committee -- 'Save America'.

However, any statement were neither issued by the FBI or the US Justice Department.

The former President was not at his house at the time of raids.

US legal experts said that a search of this kind has to be cleared by a federal judge on two essential grounds: One, there is probable cause that a federal crime has been committed and is being investigated and two, related evidence is stored at the site of the search.

The raid is likely in connection to Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 Presidential election outcome, which is being scrutinised at multiple levels, including a Congressional probe into the January 6 riots at the US Capitol by large number of people incited by Trump to prevent a joint session from certifying Joe Biden's victory.

The FBI has raided and searched the premises of a former Justice Department official, who aided Trump's efforts, and seized the phone of a lawyer who is believed to have encouraged the former President to challenge the outcome.
Pratapgarh : , Aug 9 (IANS) Raja Uday Pratap Singh, father of former Uttar Pradesh Minister and strongman Raghuraj Pratap Singh a.k.a. Raja Bhaiya, will be released from house arrest on Tuesday evening, a government official said.

Pratapgarh District Magistrate, Nitin Bansal said that Uday Pratap will be freed from house arrest after Moharram is over.

"We have managed to salvage the situation after speaking to all sections of people in the locality. Since he was unwilling to cooperate with us, we put him under house arrest to thwart any possible threat to the law and order situation," he added.

The 89-year-old erstwhile Raja Uday Pratap Singh had been sitting on dharna since last week to protest the erection of a makeshift gate by the Muslim community in the Pratapgarh area for Moharram.

Raja Bhaiya's father had been holding a 'bhandara' in the area -- Sheikhpur Ashik village in Kunda development block of Pratapgarh district -- for the past few years.

Due to Covid-19, the bhandara could not be held for the past two years.

This year, as he began preparing for the event, the erection of the Moharram gate irked him.

On August 4, he sat on a dharna at the tehsil headquarters and all local shopkeepers downed their shutters to show their support to the Raja.

Police sources said that the Muslim community has been setting up the gate in the past too, but Uday Pratap said that the practice required to be changed after the state government recently banned use of public places for worship.

Pratapgarh Superintendent of Police, Satpal Antil said that the police and state administration would soon come up with standard operating procedures so that communal harmony prevails in the future.
Rome, Aug 9 : Giorgia Meloni, head of the Italian populist party leading the pre-election polls, has said that boats leaving the North African coast carrying migrants should be blocked at sea.

"The best solution to this problem is to prevent the departures and not the arrivals. A blockade of the departures would be more efficient," dpa news agency quoted Meloni, leader of the Fratelli d'Italia (Brothers of Italy) as saying in a radio interview on Monday.

According to current polling, Meloni's party enjoys support equivalent to that of the League, headed by right-wing populist Matteo Salvini, and Forza Italia of former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi, taken together.

The three parties have formed an alliance to contest the September 25 elections, while the political forces on the left and in the centre are currently in disarray.

Meloni and Salvini have made migration and refugees a key issue in their campaigning, as the number of arrivals from North Africa continues to be high.

The migrants are often brought ashore by private rescue operations or the Italian coastguard.

Meloni called for camps, or hotspots, to be set up in North Africa to check the migrants before they leave the continent.

"We could certainly talk to the Libyan authorities about this," she said.

In a controversial opinion piece in the Corriere della Sera daily on Monday, Meloni contrasted the current wave of migration into Italy with Italians migrating abroad in decades past, saying Italians had gone in search of work, whereas the current migrants aimed to live off the state.

According to reports, Italy receives the majority of refugees and asylum seekers who reach Europe.

In the first six months of this year, 27,633 refugees and migrants arrived in Italy by sea, compared to 20,532 in the same period in 2021, according to figures by the UNHCR.

In June 2022, 8,152 persons were registered at landing points in southern Italy. This is a slight decrease compared to May 2022, when 8,720 refugees and migrants reached Italian shores.

Most persons arriving in June disembarked in Sicily (6,625 persons), followed by Calabria (1,405), Sardinia (108) and Apulia (14).
Lucknow, Aug 9 : A Bangladeshi man was arrested at the Lucknow airport for buying a fake Indian passport for Rs 1 lakh and a fake Aadhaar card for Rs 10,000 to go to the Middle East in search of livelihood.

He was arrested upon on his return from Sharjah when he failed to explain to an immigration officer why he did not opt for a direct flight for Kolkata instead of landing in Lucknow and then taking a connecting fight to Kolkata.

The accused has been identified as Mohammad Abdul Zabbar, 43, who originally hails from Bangladesh's Pabna district.

However, the Indian passport and Aadhaar card seized from him states his identity as Jabbar Shak, 39, resident of Nadia district in West Bengal.

"When I questioned him on why he did not book a direct flight for Kolkata from Sharjah instead of landing at Lucknow, the accused could not give a satisfactory answer. He was interrogated and confessed that he was a Bangladeshi national and had bought an Indian passport for Rs 1 lakh and Aadhaar for Rs 10,000 from a man in West Bengal," said an official.

"Touts in Bangladesh had demanded 4 lakh taka which he could not afford, so he went for a cheaper alternative -- the Indian passport. He was a labourer in Sharjah and was heading home (Bangladesh). After alighting at Kolkata airport, Zabbar was supposed to cross the border in the night." Zabbar has been sent to 14 days judicial custody.
Lucknow, Aug 9 : Security was beefed up in Lucknow on Tuesday for Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, with over 3,500 police personnel, mobile patrolling squads, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) teams posted in sensitive areas of the state capital along with the deployment of drones.

According to an official state government spokesman, a special social media surveillance cell has been formed to counter rumour-mongering.

S. Chinappa, Lucknow Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), West, said: "We have divided the entire city into five zones and 18 sectors for sensitive areas in an effective manner." Another senior police official said over 2,500 non-gazetted police personnel from inspector to constable ranks are deployed only in the Old city.

"Other than civil police officers and personnel, PAC and RAF have been deployed to avert any trouble in the area," he said.

The official added that CCTV cameras have been installed along different routes, while some police personnel will be equipped with bodycams to keep watch on every activity during the procession.

Besides, drones will keep an aerial vigil on the entire area and motorcycle mobile units will patrol the entire Old City to ensure peace during Muharram, he added.

The official said religious leaders of both communities and other influential people have been asked to remain connected with senior authorities in case of any rumour-mongering and trouble.

He said the administration will keep sharing every development during this period so that people are not misled by rumour mongers.
Lucknow, Aug 9 : The Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) will launch its two-day 'Tiranga Yatra' across the state from Tuesday during which the party will also approach the people and urge them to display the Tricolour at their homes.

BJP MPs, MLAs and party functionaries would be part of this yatra that is being taken out as part of the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign.

BJP General Secretary Amar Pal Maurya said that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has set a target to hoist 4.50 crore national flags in the state.

"Under the Tricolour campaign, the national flag should be hoisted at all residences, government and private offices and buildings and other establishments," the Chief Minister has said.

"From today till August 15 (Independence Day), the party would ensure that each house displays a Tricolour," Maurya said.

"From Thursday, we will also take out prabhat pheris (morning rounds) across villages and cities to create awareness. From August 13 to 15, the party will knock at each door to make the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign a success," said BJP leader Himanshu Dubey.
Vienna, Aug 9 : Talks in Vienna to revive the Iran nuclear deal have ended with diplomats from the countries involved returning to their capitals with a provisional text for a new agreement that it is hoped will prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons.

"You have to say yes or no," a senior European Union representative said in Vienna, adding that there was nothing left to negotiate and describing the text as a "very good compromise for all parties", reports dpa news agency.

The countries involved, Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the US, are expected to respond "in very, very few weeks", the diplomat said.

The parties have been seeking to resolve differences over the lifting of sanctions on Iran in return for placing restrictions on the country's nuclear programme once more.

The 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, known as the Iran nuclear deal, collapsed when the US withdrew unilaterally in 2018 under the presidency of Donald Trump.

Since then, Iran has proceeded with uranium enrichment leading to fears that it is close to producing a nuclear weapon.

Tehran has consistently argued that it only intends to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.

During a visit to Israel, US President Joe Biden issued a joint statement with Prime Minister Yair Lapid repeating Washington's commitment never to allow Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon.

The US would use "all elements of its national power" to prevent this, the statement said.
Lucknow, Aug 9 : The Uttar Pradesh government has sacked four security guards and discontinued the internship of 11 pharmacy students after a viral video showed them creating ruckus and celebrating a birthday party in the hospital campus.

The students have been ordered to report back at their respective colleges from where they had arrived for internship.

These students had completed one-month of their three-month internship period.

Director Civil hospital Dr Anand Ojha said, "Nobody is above the rules and those who break rules will have to face action." Dr R.P. Singh, chief medical superintendent of the hospital, said, "We do not tolerate such an act and strict action will soon be taken against the agency that provides manpower for security." Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, on Monday, had constituted a two-member committee to conduct a probe into a viral video in which pharmacy students were seen creating ruckus during a birthday celebration.

The committee, on Monday, examined the video and identified the people.
Lucknow, Aug 9 : In a major relief to some former top policemen, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has stayed the summons issued to them by the CBI to appear before it.

Former Director General of Police (DGP) Karmveer Singh, ex-ADGP V.K. Gupta as well as the then Lucknow jailor Bhim Sen Mukund were summoned in connection with custodial death of the then deputy Chief Medical Office (CMO) Dr Y.S. Sachan in 2011.

The bench of Justice Ajai Kumar Srivastava passed the order on the petitions moved individually by Gupta, Singh and Mukund.

The bench considered CBI counsel Anurag Kumar Singh's argument that the premier investigating agency had conducted the probe meticulously and having found that the death of Dr Sachan was suicidal, it had rightly submitted closure report twice.

The court also noted that no prosecution sanction was obtained prior to summoning the petitioners as it was necessary because the petitioners were performing their duty in discharge of their official work.

Hearing a plea of Sachan's wife Malti Sachan, a special judicial magistrate, CBI, had on July 7 summoned key police and jail officials to appear before it in connection with the deputy CMO's death.

The CBI court had observed that based on judicial inquiry report, autopsy, medical experts' opinion, statement of witnesses during the course of the CBI investigation, adequate material was available on record for making the accused stand on trial for the offences of murder and hatching conspiracy to eliminate Dr Sachan.

The court also summoned the then Lucknow jailor B.S. Mukund, deputy jailor Sunil Kumar Singh, pradhan Bandi rakshak Babu Ram Dubey and bandi rakshak Pahindra Singh.

It may be recalled that Dr Sachan was arrested in connection with the embezzlement of NRHM funds and was in jail when the police charged him with plotting the murders of his two seniors.

Dr Sachan was found dead in a deserted section of Lucknow jail on June 22, 2011 -- a day before he had to appear in court to record his statement in connection with the two murders and his role in the embezzlement of funds.

The FIR of his death was lodged with the Gosaiganj police station on June 26, 2011 against unknown persons.

The judicial inquiry report prepared on July 11, 2011 declared Dr Sachan's death to be a murder.

Later, the high court handed over the probe to the CBI on July 14, 2011.

After investigation, the CBI declared Dr Sachan's death as a case of suicide and filed a closure report on September 27, 2012.

Dr Sachan's wife Malti challenged the closure report. The CBI court accepted her protest application and directed the CBI to investigate further into the case.
Chennai, Aug 9 : The MSME units and the powerloom units in Tamil Nadu have strongly objected to the proposed power tariff hike.

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission has already requested the public to vent their opinion regarding the proposal submitted by the Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Company (Tangedco).

R. Balakrishnan, a leader of the MSME association in Chennai while speaking to IANS said, "It is to be noted that earlier the fixed charges Low Tension (LT) power tariff was Rs 35 per unit for a month. Presently, it is split into three categories. It is now proposed at Rs 100 (per month) for 0 to 50 units, Rs 325 per month for 50 to 100 units, and Rs 600 per month for above 100 units. This is an astronomical hike and we cannot survive." The MSME leader also came down heavily against the proposal of the government to hike power tariffs by 6 per cent every five years and said that the move was irrational. He said that while there was no hike in power tariff for the past eight years, the hike has to be done systematically and in steps and not in a single shot as is being proposed presently.

In a related development, the powerloom owners in Tiruppur and Coimbatore have also come out strongly against the proposed hike in the charges.

Secretary of Powerloom association, R. Veluswamy while speaking to IANS said, "We are suffering from yarn price increase and now the proposed power tariff hike will add to our woes. As we came to know that the proposed power tariff hike will be Rs 7 per unit for a power loom and it is way higher from the earlier charge of Rs 4.60 per unit. The demand charge will also go up from Rs 70 a month to Rs 200 a month." He said that there will be a direct increase of 32 per cent in power bills due to these proposed reforms and added that the association is petitioning the government for a cut in power tariff and will appeal to the TN Electricity Regulatory Commission.
Hyderabad, Aug 9 : Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao has said that Muharram symbolises supreme sacrifice and tolerance.

He noted that the Peer Panja (cutouts of hands) procession, which marks sacrifice, are being taken up by Muslims as well as Hindus across the state.

Chief Minister KCR said in a message that irrespective of religions, Muharram gives the message of unity, brotherhood and 'Ganga-Jamuna Tezjeeb' between Hindu and Muslims communities.

Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, in her message, noted that Muharram symbolises the spirit of sacrifice which is placed above all the virtues of mankind.

Muharram commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Holy Prophet, who sacrificed his life at the altar of true belief, she said.

"Remembrance of graciousness and sacrifice is the true meaning of Muharram. Let us emulate the spirit of Muharram which embodies humanism which is central to Islam. The ideals of sacrifice, peace and justice of Muharram may continue to inspire us," she added.
Tel Aviv, Aug 9 : Israel registered 249,900 tourists arrivals in July, the highest monthly record since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in early 2020, the country's Central Bureau of Statistics said.

Israel has logged a total of 1.26 million foreign tourists since the beginning of 2022, about eight times higher than the 156,200 tourists in the January-July period last year, reports Xinhua news agency.

However, the monthly number is still behind the pre-pandemic level seen in February 2020, when some 343,800 tourists arrived in Israel.

Israel reopened international tourists in November 2021, allowing the entry of vaccinated and recovered tourists, and in March, the entry of non-vaccinated ones.

The number of Israelis who went abroad in July reached more than one million, compared to 766,700 the month before and only 3,000 in April 2020, the statistics revealed.
Seoul, Aug 9 : South Korea and the US plan to kick off preliminary military drills next week ahead of their major combined exercise later this month, informed sources said on Tuesday.

The allies are set to begin the four-day South Korea-led crisis management drills on Tuesday in the run-up to the Ulchi Freedom Shied (UFS) exercise set to run from August 22-September 1, Yonhap News Agency quoted the sources as saying.

Led by South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, the drills are designed to practice a set of procedures to respond to possible pre-war crisis scenarios.

They are a computer simulation training based on the allies' wartime contingency plans.

The UFS involves two parts -- the first on repelling attacks and defending the greater Seoul area, and the other on counterattack operations.

The upcoming exercise comes as the allies are striving to strengthen combined defence through measures, including expanding and publicising training programs, amid concerns the North could escalate tensions by conducting a nuclear test or other provocative acts.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Culinary Garage is a cloud kitchen based out of Chembur serving authentic Indian food across the city. Started y Chef. Vishay Vijan - an IHM - Aurangabad alumni, in August 2020 it serves fulfilling meals to people around the city. The idea behind starting the kitchen was to serve people a food experience that they talk about from different parts of the country right here in Mumbai.

From the Black Dal taking you to the streets of Amritsar to the Soya Chaap reminding you of Delhi and the Laal Maas that brings a little bit of Rajasthan right here, the menu is vast yet limited. IANSlife caught up with Vishay to find out more: When did you start the brand?

Vishay: I started Culinary Garage as a cloud kitchen based out of Chembur in August 2020 to serve fulfilling meals and authentic Indian food across the city.

A little about why you started this brand/ your inspiration Vishay: The idea behind starting the kitchen was to serve people a food experience that they talk about from different parts of the country right here in Mumbai. Bringing together authentic local cuisine from across the country under one roof, the main objective of the kitchen is to be true to the dish and its roots. We aim to educate the people in Mumbai about the different dishes, and their flavours and give them a palate of foods from different parts of the country. The inspiration comes from the food itself and its ways of preparation from the origin city.

An insight into all the products/services/dishes on the menu you're offering Vishay: Each dish has been curated by sourcing ingredients from the origin place and made to excellence in our kitchen. Our food is made in the authentic clay tandoor keeping the zests and essence of food accurate. There is minimum usage of gas and maximum usage of coal to prepare the dishes.

There is no use of any artificial ingredients or colors in everything we prepare hence, retaining the real flavours of the dishes.

From the slow-cooked Black Dal taking you to the streets of Amritsar to the Soya Chaap reminding you of Delhi, the Laal Maas that brings a little bit of Rajasthan right here, and the Korma prompting the land of Nawabs, our menu is vast yet limited. A perfect blend of Fire and Coal brings the best of every Indian flavour to you.

Your Best-selling dishes Vishay: Butter Chicken, Dal Makhni, Soya Chaap, Chicken Biryani, Mutton Biryani, and Chicken Tikka

Is anything special about your products or something offbeat you would like our users to know about?

Vishay: We ensure to keep innovating and introducing new and seasonal produce items from various parts of India on our menu. We had a winter special menu that had the Kaali Gajar Ka Halwa which is made from black carrots that were brought from Lucknow.

(IANSlife@ians.in can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)
Los Angeles, Aug 9 : American actress and director Anne Heche, who was involved in a car crash in Los Angeles a few days back, has slipped into a coma.

The actress is in extremely critical condition and has a pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation, reports 'Variety'.

The actor's representative said in a statement accessed by 'Variety', "At this time Anne is in extreme critical condition. She has a significant pulmonary injury requiring mechanical ventilation and burns that require surgical intervention. She is in a coma and has not regained consciousness since shortly after the accident." Earlier, her representative provided an update about her being in stable condition on Saturday.

"Her family and friends ask for your thoughts and prayers. We also ask to respect her privacy during this difficult time. Thank you', the earlier statement accessed by 'Variety' further read.

Heche was rushed to a hospital on Friday after her car crashed into a home in the 1700 block of Walgrove Avenue in West Los Angeles, according to reports from 'NBC4LA' and 'CNN'.

According to multiple reports, Heche suffered burn injuries when the Mini Cooper she was driving burst into flames. The actor was also reported to have been involved in an accident a few minutes before the Walgrove Avenue crash at a nearby apartment complex.

'Variety' further states that the accident took place as Heche was gearing up to promote her role in Lifetime's opioid crime drama 'Girl in Room 13'.

Heche was expected to appear this week at the network's Television Critics Association press tour in order to tout the upcoming project.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday recalled the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain on the day of Ashura.

The prime minister said that Hazrat Imam Hussain is remembered for his unwavering commitment to truth and his fight against injustice.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Modi said, "Today is a day to recall the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS). He is remembered for his unwavering commitment to truth and his fight against injustice.

"He also placed great importance on equality and brotherhood."
Beirut, Aug 9 : Lebanese President Michel Aoun has agreed on the initial criteria and steps to be adopted for the implementation of a strategy for the repatriation of Syrian refugees.

"We have agreed with President Aoun on many points related to the Syrian refugees' return plan, and we coordinated our positions hoping to hold more meetings next week to agree on the basic steps to be taken to start with the return process," said Minister of Social Affairs Hector Hajjar, following his meeting with the President and the Foreign Affairs Minister Abdallah Bou Habib.

Hajjar assured that coordination with Syria on the matter is still ongoing and has never stopped, reports Xinhua news agency.

On July 4, Lebanon announced a plan to repatriate 15,000 displaced Syrians monthly but is yet to secure a written approval from the UN Refugees Agency (UNHCR) which insisted that Syria is not safe for return.

Lebanon has insisted on implementing its plan regardless of the UN position as the country suffers from an unprecedented financial crisis and the presence of a big number of refugees which weighs heavily on the economy and infrastructure.

Lebanon remains the country hosting the largest number of refugees per capita in the world, with an estimated 1.5 million Syrians and some 13,715 of other nationalities.
Los Angeles, Aug 9 : More problems mount for 'The Flash' star Ezra Miller as now he has been charged with regards to a burglary incident that dates back to May 2022.

The actor's involvement came to light after the investigating team checked the surveillance videos and statements, reports 'Deadline'.

The police report accessed by 'Deadline', reads, "On 05/01/2022 at approximately 1755 hours, the Vermont State Police was notified of a burglary complaint at a residence on County Road in the town of Stamford, Vermont. The initial findings indicated that several bottles of alcohol were taken from within the residence while the homeowners were not present." "As a result of an investigation that included surveillance videos and statements, probable cause was found to charge Ezra M. Miller with the offence of felony burglary into an unoccupied dwelling", the reports further read.

According to 'Deadline', cops located the Fantastic Beasts star at 11:23 p.m. August 7 and issued a citation to appear in Vermont Superior Court Bennington Criminal Division on September 26 for arraignment on the burglary charge. The Vermont State Police worked with the Bennington County State's Attorney's Office on the investigation.

Despite Miller's scandals so far, Warner Bros. Discovery has maintained that 'The Flash' is still set for a June 23, 2023 theatrical release. However, this latest turn of events in the Green Mountain state could cause them to take a whole new lane.

Sources told 'Deadline' that the studio has been attempting to intercede with Miller over the past few months as incident after incident have occurred.

'Deadline' further states that the latest Miller incident follows a temporary harassment prevention order they received over the summer from a 12-year old and a mother in Greenfield, MA for allegedly menacing them.

Also, the parents of 18-year-old Tokata Iron Eyes filed a protection order against Miller, accusing them of grooming and brainwashing their child. Miller also had two arrests in Hawaii, one involving a dust-up at a karaoke bar.
Kiev, Aug 9 : The Ukrainian Parliament has unveiled a draft law to impose new sanctions on Russia.

The bill, which was submitted by President Volodymyr Zelensky, envisages 10 new restrictive measures to be introduced against Russia for the next 10 years,reports Xinhua news agency.

In particular, the draft law stipulates a ban on transferring funds from Ukraine to Russia-related individuals and legal entities.

Besides, it prohibits Russia-linked individuals from participating in the privatisation and lease of Ukrainian state property and purchasing land plots in Ukraine.

The bill also proposes to ban Russian and Russia-linked ships and planes from entering Ukraine, among other measures.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
Islamabad, Aug 9 : Four Pakistan soldiers were killed in a suicide blast at a military convoy in the Mir Ali area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwas North Waziristan district, the militarys media affairs wing said on Tuesday.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), intelligence agencies have commenced investigations to find out details about the suicide bomber who carried out the attack and his handlers and facilitators, Dawn reported.

The "Pakistan Army is determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers will not go unpunished", the ISPR said.

Attacks on security forces and clashes with suspected terrorists in the North Waziristan triAbal district have become quite frequent in recent months.

On July 4, at least 10 security personnel were injured when a suicide bomber attacked a convoy of security forces in the area, Dawn reported.

Officials said at the time that the convoy was going from Mirali to Miramshah, the district headquarters, when the suicide bomber, who was on a motorcycle, blew himself up near one of the vehicles.

On May 30, a suicide bomAber riding a motorcycle attAacked another convoy of security forces in the Razmak area, injuring two soldiers and two children.
Taipei, Aug 9 : China is using its large-scale military exercises around Taiwan to prepare for an invasion of the self-governed island, Taipeis Foreign Minister Joseph Wu claimed on Tuesday "China has used the drills and its military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan," RT quoted Wu as saying during a press conference.

Beijing is engaging in "large-scale military exercises and missile launches, as well as cyber-attacks, a disinformation campaign and economic coercion in order to weaken public morale in Taiwan", the diplomat insisted.

China launched war games including live-fire drills in six maritime areas around Taiwan on August 2 in response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island China's military exercises show Beijing doesn't need to invade Taiwan to control it -- rather it can strangle the self-ruled island, cutting it off from the outside world, according to Chinese and American analysts.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) drills, which officially began on August 4, focused on six zones that essentially encircled Taiwan, restricting access to civilian ships and aircraft in the area, as forces conducted live-fire drills and missile launches.

Meng Xiangqing, a professor at the PLA National Defense University, said the six areas were chosen to show how China could cut off Taiwan's ports, attack its most important military installations, and sever access for foreign forces that may come to Taiwan's aid.

"Connect the six areas in a line, like a noose, with the knot of the noose right in the southwest direction," Meng said in an interview with state-run broadcaster CCTV.
Canberra, Aug 9 : The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) on announced that it has embarked on a project to explore the potential uses for a federally backed digital currency.

The RBA said that, in collaboration with the Digital Finance Cooperative Research Centre (DFCRC), it would run a year-long, limited-scale trial of a central bank digital currency (CBDC), reports Xinhua news agency.

"The Bank and the DFCRC will select a range of different use cases to participate in the pilot, based on their potential to provide insights into the possible benefits of a CBDC," said the RBA.

Andreas Furche, CEO of the DFCRC, said the technology for a digital currency already existed and rather the project was about understanding how a CBDC could help Australia.

"The key research questions now are what economic benefits a CBDC could enable, and how it could be designed to maximize those benefits," he said.

Unlike traditional digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, a CBDC would be stabilized and regulated by the government.
Taipei, Aug 9 : Taiwan on Tuesday conducted scheduled live-fire artillery exercises amid China's ongoing military manoeuvres around the island.

The live ammunition artillery exercise known as the Tien Lei drill was announced in late July, before the visit of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan last week drew Beijing's ire, reports dpa news agency.

The drill was designed to simulate Taiwan's defence against an attack by China's People's Liberation Army.

It is taking place on Tuesday and Thursday this week and was planned as part of Taiwan's annual Han Kuang exercises, but comes amid heightened tensions and just after China said it would extend large-scale air and sea drills to the north, south-west and east of Taiwan that had been due to end on Sunday.

No new formal end date has been announced for China's drills, and Beijing's Defence Ministry confirmed its combat exercises were continuing around Taiwan on Tuesday.

Taiwanese television meanwhile reported that flares were fired in coastal areas during Taipei's military exercise in Pingtung County in the island's south, near a zone previously designated by the Chinese army for its own drill.

Taiwan's Foreign Ministry condemned China's continuation of military manoeuvres and said Beijing's activities show it is determined to link the East and South China Seas through the Taiwan Strait and make the entire area its internal waters.

"China's real intention behind these military exercises is to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and the entire region," Taiwan's Foreign Minister Joseph Wu told a news conference on Tuesday in Taipei.

Wu said China's large-scale military exercises, missile launches and cyberattacks were all part of Beijing's "military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan".

He said they were strategies to "weaken public morale" on the island.

Beijing could try to make such military action routine after its drills conclude, Wu said, echoing some Chinese media commentators who said the military exercises could become a regular occurance.

Taiwan is a self-governing democratic island off the south-east coast of China, which claims it as a province and which it has threatened to take by force if it makes any moves towards formal independence.

Beijing rejects official contact between Taipei and other countries.
Chennai, Aug 9 : The month-on-month net inflows for equity mutual funds came down by 42.6 per cent to Rs 8,898.25 crore in July 2022, as per the figures released by the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI).

The total net inflow for the mutual fund industry as a whole last month was Rs 23,604.92 crore as against a net outflow of Rs 69,852.94 crore in June 2022, said AMFI.

According to AMFI, the net inflows for equity mutual funds last month was Rs 8,898.25 crore down from Rs 15,497.76 crore logged in June 2022.

As on July 31, the average net asset under management (AUM) of the industry was Rs 37,74,802.90 crore as against a figure of Rs 35,64,090.20 crore as on June 30.

"July seems to be month where investors has taken some profits off as markets went up, the net sales in equity has plummeted to Rs 8,898 crore Vs. Rs 15,497 crore, momentum was coming down all through last few months as the markets were correcting but July was a steep fall and excluding SIP numbers, we might have witnessed actual net negative sales in July," Akhil Chaturvedi, Chief Business Officer, Motilal Oswal AMC, said.

According to him, even the hybrid category has slowed down with both dip on gross sales and higher redemptions.

"We are seeing markets recovering and FII returning although early days to say that this trend will be consistent but if it is then I hope for the retail investors confidence return once again," Chaturvedi added.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Militants from across the Myanmar border opened fire on Assam Rifles (AR) troops in Arunachal Pradesh on Monday. The firing took place in Tirap Changlang area. Defence Public Relations Officer (PRO) Tezpur said that one jawan was injured in the attack.

"The incident of firing on AR TPS (troops) by militant GPS from across the Indo-Myanmar border took place in the early hours of today in the general area Tirp Changlang. AR TPS are carrying out increased patrolling activities in view of the increased surveillance for the upcoming ID 2022. 1 x JCO has minor injury in hand," tweeted Defence PRO.

It was reported that soldiers of the Assam Rifles were on enhanced patrolling in the area ahead of the Independence Day (ID).

As per a media report, the JCO was injured in firing near the Pangsau Pass in Arunachal Pradesh.
Chennai, Aug 9 : Actor Karthi has disclosed that Aditi Shankar, the daughter of ace director Shankar Shanmugam who makes her debut as an actress with his film, 'Viruman', was a down-to-earth, simple person who was full of fun.

Speaking at a press conference called by director Muthiah's 'Viruman' unit, Karthi said, "Aditi beautifully adapted herself to this film. I think it is her upbringing. Despite being so sophisticated and being a doctor, she has this belief that she would give her best to the profession she has chosen." Stating that Aditi would behave in the same simple fashion with everybody on sets, without distinction, the actor disclosed that Aditi would keep pulling everybody's legs.

"During our first meeting at the pooja of the film, when we were hesitant to talk to her thinking that she would speak to us in English, she came and asked in Tamil, 'Sir, which is the country that has the most rich people?' I immediately went to Google, began searching Wikipedia and started wondering if I should say it is the nation that has that Sheikh, when she said, 'Don't think too much sir. It is a simple question.' I finally gave up and she said, "Bangla Desh," she said and explained, "It is a country that has a lot of bungalows.'" As the audience roared with laughter, Karthi continued, "I was stumped when I heard that answer. Before I could recover, she said, 'Sir, I have another question.' I told her that I couldn't take any more of these questions but she wouldn't take no for an answer and insisted that I answer just one more question of hers. "Reluctantly, I agreed and she asked, 'What is the name of the girl who pushed her father?' I had no clue and I sought comedian Soori's help. He also began thinking what the answer could be. After a good 15 minutes, she said, 'It is Pushpa. It is because, the girl Push(es) her pa.'" On a serious note, the actor said, "I believe that you will also get the same love from the people that they have shown us."
Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 9 : Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday approved the extension of suspension of Inspector General of Police G. Lekshmana for another three months.

Lekshmana is alleged to have close links with fake antique dealer Monson Mavunkal.

Chief Secretary V.P. Joy, who heads the committee of affairs of IAS and IPS officials, had given a note that the ongoing investigation against Lekshmana was not over and hence his suspension should be extended for another 90 days.

Vijayan by virtue of being the Home Minister and one who handles files of the Central government officials accepted the recommendation and signed it.

Lekshmana was suspended in November last year for his alleged close links with Mavunkal, who was then heading the Traffic Department and was all set to be promoted to the rank of Additional Director General of Police.

Ever since Mavunkal has been arrested by the Crime Branch from his home-cum-'museum' at Kochi in September last year after victims approached Vijayan with their complaints that they were swindled of Rs 10 crore by this "master fraud", the name of Lekshmana and his alleged close links surfaced.

When the case first surfaced in September, pictures of now retired state police chief Loknath Behra and serving Additional Director General of Police Manoj Abraham visiting the "museum" of Mavunkal at Kochi went viral.

The court raised questions like -- 'how come these top police officials never thought of how a museum like this could function as the rules are very clear, and it also pointed out how the police set up a daily beatbox at Mavunkal's house and the museum'.

Soon the probe went into top gear and statements from Behra, Abraham and Lekshmana were taken, and it was based on these statements that Vijayan suspended him.

Mavunkal took all his high profile guests into his fold by showcasing antiques, which he claimed included the "staff of Moses" and "two of the 30 silver coins that were taken by Judas to cheat Jesus Christ".

Police said that he also displayed a throne said to be used by Tipu Sultan, as well as a huge collection of old Qurans, Bibles (Old Testament and New Testament), and old handwritten copies of the Bhagavad Gita.

Mavunkal used to bring several VIPs to his palatial residence, a part of which was converted into a museum to house his 'precious' antiques.

Mavunkal since his arrest continues to be in judicial custody.
Tel Aviv, Aug 9 : Authorities in Israel on Tuesday said that a leading member of the al-Aqsa Brigades -- the military arm of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah movement -- during a military operation in the West Bank.

Ibrahim al-Nablusi was responsible for a series of attacks on Israeli soldiers in the area, dpa news agency quoted the Israeli domestic intelligence service Shin Bet and the military as saying in a joint statement.

During the attempted arrest, explosive devices and other weapons were found.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health confirmed the death of al-Nablusi and two other people.

About 40 people were injured by gunshots during the operation.

It is feared that the killing of al-Nablusi could lead to further confrontations.

After three days of fighting, a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad organization in the Gaza Strip came into effect on Sunday.

The Israeli military had launched the military operation dubbed "Breaking Dawn" with airstrikes targeting Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip on August 5.

Two jihadi military chiefs were killed during the operation.

Since the beginning of the fighting, Palestinian militants have fired more than 1,000 rockets at Israeli settlements, according to military sources. Two hundred of them hit the Gaza Strip.

The operation against Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip is to be seen as a continuation of a campaign in the West Bank that has been going on for months.

Since a wave of terror in Israel in the spring, the army has been carrying out more anti-terrorist operations there.
Itanagar, Aug 9 : A week ahead of the Independence Day, heavy exchange of fire between the Assam Rifles and the militants took place in Arunachal Pradesh along the India-Myanmar border on Tuesday, injuring a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), officials said.

Tuesday's incident took place days after militant outfits, including the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) called for a boycott of the Independence Day celebrations.

Defence sources said that the militant groups from across the India-Myanmar border attacked the Assam Rifles troops at Tirap Changlang in Arunachal Pradesh.

Assam Rifles troops were undertaking enhanced patrolling activities in view of the heightened vigil for the forthcoming Independence Day. One JCO sustained minor injury in hand during the firing. No other casualty or any other damage has been reported, the defence spokesman said.

The paramilitary troopers enhanced the surveillance after the incident.

Meanwhile, a section of the media reported a similar incident of exchange of fire between the Assam Rifles and the militants in Nagaland's Noklak district.

The media report, which was yet to be confirmed by the Army officials, quoting Nagaland police said that NSCN (KYA faction) and ULFA-I opened fire on the Assam Rifles personnel at a border outpost in Noklak district along India-Myanmar border. There are no reports of casualties yet and police officers have rushed to the mountainous bordering areas.

Four Northeastern states -- Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Nagaland (215 km), Manipur (398 km) and Mizoram (510 km) -- share 1,643-km unfenced border with Myanmar, where the cadres of the few militant outfits belonging to the Northeast region of India take shelter and conduct arms training.
Bengaluru, Aug 9 : A complaint has been lodged against Kannada superstar Darshan in connection with threatening a film producer.

Producer Bharat lodged the complaint with Kengeri police in Bengaluru, saying that he had signed Darshan's relative Dhruvan for the 'Sri Krishna Paramatma' movie two years ago.

The producer halted the film's shooting due to financial crisis and shared it with Dhruvan.

When Bharat was informing Dhruvan about halting of the film's shooting over telephone, the latter added Dhruvan on call.

During the telephonic conversation, Darshan allegedly threatened the producer.

The alleged audio recording has gone viral.

Darshan is allegedly heard saying wherever Bharat goes, he will not be spared.

The police have recorded statement of 'Sri Krishna Paramatma' director Anthony in this connection.
Islamabad, Aug 9 : Pakistani authorities have suspended transmission of a leading television news channel after a segment was aired about the armed forces that was deemed a threat to national security.

ARY News, which is seen as sympathetic towards former premier Imran Khan, was taken off air late Monday by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), dpa news agency quoted the channel's management as saying.

The channel had aired a segment on Monday wherein an advisor to Khan alleged the ruling party of being behind a smear campaign against the army.

The report also suggested that army officers should not follow "illegal and unconstitutional orders" from their higher ups.

Hours later, the channel's transmission was cut.

PEMRA said that the channel aired content that was "highly objectionable, hateful, seditious, based on absolute disinformation with clear and present threat to national security by instigating rebellion within the armed forces with the clear malafide intent to cause discord and rift between the federal government and rank and files of armed forces".

ARY News has faced suspensions in the past and has also been fined in Britain for airing unsubstantiated news items against politicians.

The government has already launched investigations to identify those behind an online smear campaign targeting the military after a senior commander and five others were killed in a helicopter crash during a flood relief operation last week.

Leaders from the ruling coalition and Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) point fingers at each other for the anti-military campaign.

Press freedom has suffered a huge blow in recent years. Several journalists have been tortured, kidnapped, intimidated and made jobless for allegedly criticizing the military and spy agencies.

The military rulers target the country's independent media and journalists through laws activists describe as outrageous and authoritarian.
Hyderabad, Aug 9 : The Telangana government has urged the Centre to provide 50 lakh doses of Covid-19 vaccines to expedite the vaccination programme in the state.

State Health Minister T. Harish Rao on Tuesday wrote a letter to Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, urging him to immediately supply 50 lakh doses of Covishield to help ramp up pace of precautionary dose administration.

Rao informed the Central minister that the state has decided to take up a massive drive to administer precautionary doses to the eligible population.

Rao wrote that the state is currently administering only 1.5 lakh doses per day. He told the Central minister that the state is not receiving required quantity of doses.

The minister further said that based on the demand, Telangana has the potential to administer over 3 lakh precautionary doses per day, which is not being realised due to a shortage of vaccines, particularly Covishield.

Rao reminded him that the state has repeatedly requested for an increase in vaccine supply. Currently, Telangana has only 2.7 lakh vaccine doses available, which is not sufficient even for two days, he wrote The state health minister highlighted that Telangana has completed 106 per cent of the first dose administration, and 104 per cent of the second dose for people above 18 years.
Chennai, Aug 9 : Aruna Guhan, one of the Creative Directors of AVM Productions, the oldest production house in the country, has disclosed that the iconic role that actress Manorama played in the Tamil classic film, 'Samsaram Adhu Minsaram' was originally not there in the script.

Guhan added that it was later included on the insistence of her grandfather, who was the producer of the film.

Taking to Instagram, Aruna Guhan, who has now made it a habit to share interesting trivia about Tamil cinema, wrote a post titled, 'The amazing character that wasn't in the initial story.' In the post, she said, "When 'Samsaram Athu Minsaram' was written, Manorama Achi's character was not in the story. My thatha (grandfather) felt a strong female character was needed who would travel through the story and communicate strong messages with humour." He asked them to re-work but director Visu felt it would ruin the story.

He went back to re-work and four days later came back to Thatha and said, "Sir, this character has set so strongly into the movie, the entire essence of the movie would have been lost without her.

"Manorama Achi in all her glory will forever be one of the most iconic artistes for bringing so much to every character she played, this aside from being a wonderful and inspiring human being." The film, 'Samsaram Adhu Minsaram', is considered an iconic landmark in Tamil cinema and brought to fore the difficulties of women in a middle-class family.
New Delhi, Aug 9: The US and the Maldives have kick-started the 'Tempest Wind 2022' joint counter-terrorism exercise from August 7 to 18. These are being held in capital Male and the central Maldives as planned by the Maldives Defence Force (MNDF).

The focus of the exercise is to train Maldivian and Hawaiian forces on counter-terrorism strategies, explore areas of improvement as well as improve emergency counter-terrorism operations. The exercise is significant for the government of President Ibrahim Solih, who has laid much emphasis on battling radicalisation and countering extremism in the archipelago.

Dr Gulbin Sultana, Research Analyst at the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, told India Narrative: "Countering radicalism and extremism is not only a priority with the Solih government but is also a transnational issue. The military exercise will help the country expand and improve its readiness to counter terrorism and extremism".

Sultana adds that such an interaction will help the Indian Ocean country to become efficient in countering threats that may emanate within the Indian Ocean region.

"Maldives even has the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) that coordinates counter terrorism and violent extremism efforts besides analysing intelligence related to terrorism and violent extremism", she adds.

Male and Washington are improving relations with the US planning to open an embassy in the Maldives. In April this year, the two nations also signed the Montana National Guard State Partnership Program to strengthen defence and security cooperation.

Giving an insight into how their relations are improving in strategic areas, Sultana said: "The two nations had signed the 'Framework for a Defence and Security Relationship' in September 2020 to strengthen cooperation over peace and security in the Indian Ocean. Even India had shown approval for this agreement as it had once objected to the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) which the US wanted to cement with the Maldives. However, as there was disquiet within the Maldives also, the SOFA agreement was dropped".

After having cemented their defence and security relationship, the two nations are exploring cooperation in the fields of cyber defence and communication security, aviation security operations, operational logistics and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, environmental defence and response.

Under the Solih government, the Indian Ocean nation has been seeking support of other nations including India as well as international agencies in important investigations-like the assassination attempt on former Maldivian president Mohammed Nasheed in an effort to keep extremism under control.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
New Delhi, Aug 9: After nearly a year and a half since the military junta led by army chief General Min Aung Hlaing seized power and formed the State Administration Council (SAC) in Myanmar, the country is steeped in a civil war with no end in sight. There seems little possibility of reconciliation between the junta and large-scale resistance groups, which are gradually increasing their operational capabilities with the help of the old detractors of the military regime.

Apart from the traditional Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and Ta'ang National Army (TNLA), the Myanmar army - also called the Tatmadaw, faces hundreds of local defence forces (LDFs) and urban guerrilla cells. Despite the junta using brutal methods like scorched-earth tactics and a war of attrition against the resistance, it has not been able to consolidate its position in the country, particularly in small towns and rural areas. Peoples militia in the form of Peoples Defence Forces (PDF) and Local defence Forces (LDF) have been somewhat successful, in organising alternative governance structure in their own areas.

Though it may sound a bit exaggerated, the assessment of the situation in the country, according to an observer from the International Crisis Group (ICG) is that 200 townships out of 330 have formed an alternative governance structure. Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) are also expanding their territory of operation independent of the Tatmadaw's control. From an initial status of a weak rag tag formations without any major weapons and equipment, the resistance groups have now developed formidable strength to throw a challenge to the Tatmadaw.

Opinions among the observers vary, as no one knows the exact situation within the country.

Those who get their feedback from the sources of the National Unity Government (NUG), the shadow government put up by the resistance groups, are overly optimistic about the strength of the opposition and even hope the Tatmadaw may lose its grip on power.

Reports coming out from Myanmar say, it appears the Tatmadaw is now stretched very thinly, and is relying on the police force, intelligence agencies and ad hoc militias to help enforce its will over the population. Reports of military casualties are doubtless exaggerated, but security force losses are high enough to raise questions about the attrition rate, and the sustainability of key military formations.

Apparently, the Tatmadaw looks like a strong force with 500,000 men and great resources at its disposal, control over the economy and business interests, but in reality it has just about 100,000 combat forces. Also, it has to fight a vast array of armed resistance groups across the entire country, particularly in large fronts on the North and North-west of the country.

Twenty different Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) are now increasingly coordinating with the LDFs and the PDFs. This does not, however, mean the resistance groups will be able to overwhelm the Tatmadaw and score a victory over it anytime soon or later. It only means that the security situation within the country has changed in recent months.

The resistance still lacks weapons, equipment and expertise. More importantly, it lacks air power, which the junta uses generously to inflict damage on the resistance. But it is now better organised, better trained and better armed. It reportedly consists of some 259 PDF units, with approximately 80,000-100,000 members. In addition, there are around 250 local defence groups, and 400 other 'guerrilla forces' (a term that seems to include both rural guerrilla bands and urban resistance cells), that broadly support the NUG's aims. The NUG claims that it now controls half of Myanmar, (although this seems to include large areas under the sway of EAOs).

Its leaders speak of 'going on the offensive'. They also point to growing contacts with foreign governments and international organisations. None of these have formally recognised the shadow government or promised lethal aid, but the junta is becoming increasingly isolated and on the defensive. This is evident from junta leader Min Hlaing's recent visit to Russia where he had gone to shop for more fighter aircraft against the resistance. The momentum seems to be with the resistance.

At the same time, it will be wrong to make any objective assessment of the situation in Myanmar based on NUG's tall claims alone. Reports coming out of the country are one-sided, which may not truly reflect the actual situation on the ground. That said, some noted Myanmar-watchers are now revising their pessimistic forecasts. A number has acknowledged that the Tatmadaw is on the defensive, and struggling to meet the challenges posed by the armed resistance. The recruitment of ad hoc militias, the training being given to soldiers' wives, the use of policemen for military duties and attempts to strike peace deals with the EAOs all suggest a regime under pressure.

Even if the regime is under pressure, it can still withstand the challenge from the resistance groups as long as the Tatmadaw remains largely loyal and cohesive, and as long as the generals continue to be backed by Russia and China, it is hard to see them being defeated by force of arms.

Andrew Selth, an Australian analyst puts it aptly: "The junta may lose control of the country's periphery (a situation past governments have encountered) and it will face serious challenges elsewhere, but it should still be able to survive in the ethnic Bamar heartland. The regime is clearly in difficulties, but it does not have to win the war to remain in power. It just has to avoid losing it." Under the circumstances, political and military stalemate will continue for some time, possibly even years. The situation can of course change if there was a significant shift in the strategic environment, say if a major Tatmadaw combat unit mutinied, or if a foreign government provided the PDF with modern arms, like shoulder-fired missiles.

However, at this stage, such scenarios remain hypothetical. As long as the Ukraine war continues and the world is seized with that, there is hardly any possibility of any foreign government materially supporting the resistance groups with arms and ammunitions without which it would not be in a position to make any fundamental change in the military situation.

The chances of a negotiated settlement are bleak as neither side is in a mood to compromise. The junta has vowed to 'annihilate' the opposition movement, which it describes as terrorists, while the NUG has formally declared war on the military regime and rejected any suggestion of a negotiated settlement. "For both sides, the goal is total victory, but such an outcome is likely to prove a chimera," to quote Selth again.

Myanmar's problem does not rest only with the political and military solution. The resistance groups consist of diverse groups, each having their own agenda and their own vision of the future state of Myanmar but currently united against a common enemy-the Tatmadaw. Even if they are able to defeat the Tatmadaw hypothetically and the common enemy disappears, differences are likely to appear in the ranks of the resistance as to the future contours of the government and the State. For the time being they have agreed on a Federal Charter but implementing it to the satisfaction of all stakeholders would be a difficult task.

Myanmar's struggle for democracy accommodating aspirations of diverse groups and formation of an equitable federal government structure is going to be a long drawn out struggle and will require unity among the stakeholders based on compromises.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
New Delhi, Aug 9: China's decision to extend military drills around Taiwan, is an effort to sharpen the message to the United States not to join the island territory in a possible war with Beijing.

On Monday, China's eastern theatre command announced that it was extending the military manoeuvres surrounding Taiwan, which began following the controversial visit to the territory by the US House speaker Nancy Pelosi.

The four-day exercises which were to terminate on Sunday, were an effort to demonstrate that China could blockade the island and disrupt global trade.

Taiwan is a critical part of the global supply chains dealing with microchips and semiconductors, which go into everything ranging from mobile phones to electric cars.

In the last four days, the Chinese had curated their exercises to send some unvarnished messages to deter Taiwan and more so, the United States, from interfering in case Beijing decided to capture the territory, which it has designated as its own.

According to China's logic, Pelosi's visit would further encourage forces inside Taiwan to declare independence-a clear violation of the one-China principle. China has declared that apart from Taiwan, Tibet and Xinjiang are also its inalienable territorial units. It cites Hong Kong and Macao as examples of "peaceful unification"-a template that Taiwan must also follow or face the possibility of a military takeover.

Before announcing the extension of the exercise, the Chinese had fired 11 ballistic missiles. Five of them fell in the sea east of Taiwan, the Taiwanese foreign ministry said. By targeting the area, China was apparently showing intent to stop the US seventh fleet from joining Taiwan in the war against China through the Taiwan straits.

Located between China's Fujian province and the main Taiwan island, the Taiwan strait at its narrowest point is only 160 kilometres wide.

Based in Yokosuka in Japan the Seventh Fleet deploys massive fire power comprising 50-70 ships, 150 aircraft and 27,000 Sailors and Marines.

Two of the missiles were fired into the sea southwest of Taiwan near the Bashi Channel. The Bashi channel is part of the Luzon strait, which separates the orchid island of Taiwan from the Philippines. Significantly, several undersea cables that carry data and telephone traffic to southeast Asia pass through the channel, making it a prized target to disrupt the internet in the region.

Besides, the Bashi channel is crucial for the transit of US aircraft carriers from the South China Sea to the Philippine Sea to the north. By trying to demonstrate their missile reach, the Chinese are trying to send the message that they can delay the arrival of US firepower by at least a week, during which the military operation to take over Taiwan could apparently conclude.

The extended round of the exercise that began on Monday included anti-submarine drills, to deter the US from using these highly potent underwater platforms.

In trying to enforce a blockade, the Chinese have been attempting to exercise control over the territory's key ports. These include the Keelung Port and Taipei Port in the north, the Taichung port, Kaohsiung port in the south and Hualien Port in the east. "If the PLA exercises take a long time, it will constitute a substantial blockage of Taiwan," Global Times, the garrulous mouthpiece of the CPC, quoted a Chinese military expert as saying.

The PLA' s drills this time are "comprehensive and highly targeted," showing the determination of resolving the Taiwan question once and for all, another Chinese military commentator Song Zhongping told the daily.

The drill should be viewed as a war plan rehearsal, Song said, "In the event of a future military conflict, it is likely that the operational plans currently being rehearsed will be directly translated into combat operations." (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
New Delhi, Aug 9: China's ambassador to India in a newspaper interview expresses the hope that India will support the One China policy, calling such support the foundation of China's relations with all countries, including India.

It is extraordinary he should say this after China has violated all previous border agreements, attempted unilaterally to alter the Line of Actual Control (LAC), massed thousands of troops on our border, continues to build military infrastructure to threaten our security and continues to claim large parts of our territory. That he should not be conscious of the absurdity of his position demonstrates China's sense of entitlement as it grows stronger economically and militarily that it expects others to accept China's positions without it accepting any reciprocal commitments.

What is even more absurd is that he calls such support as the foundation of China's relations with India. This is new, because since 1954 it was the principles enshrined in the Panchsheel agreement that governed India-China relations. The 1993, 1996 and later border agreements till 2013 added new foundational stones.

After China's aggression on the border in 2020, India has laid down new parameters of India-China ties: Full adherence to agreements reached: any attempt to unilaterally alter the LAC is unacceptable: peace and tranquility in border areas is the basis of development of bilateral relations; Chinese acceptance of the notion of a multipolar Asia as the foundation of a multipolar world; India cannot be sensitive to China's concerns on Tibet and Taiwan without China recognising India's sensitivities about Kashmir; an India-China composite dialogue based on three mutuals- mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests; and, civilizational states like India and China must always take a long view.

That the Chinese ambassador should make short shrift of all this and state that India's support for One China policy without reciprocal support for One India policy is precisely what Minister Jaishankar highlighted in 2020 as the objectionable elements of Chinese diplomacy when he referred to the Chinese habit of selectivity- selective interpretation of agreements, interpretation of selective clauses of agreements, and picking up selective portions of the history of bilateral agreements.

The Chinese ambassador's formulation carries a veiled threat that the "foundation" of China-India ties will be shaken if India did not conform to a One China policy. It is an attempt to create a new pressure point, discouraging India from taking any steps to strengthen ties with Taiwan.

So far India has remained silent on the tensions arising from US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan. If India, conscious of our traditionally close strategic with Russia, could, in a constructive spirit and knowing the stakes involved for the rest of the world, call for an immediate ceasefire and recourse to diplomacy in the case of the Ukraine conflict, and state that neither side will emerge victorious from it, the reasons for our circumspection in the case of the conflict building up in Taiwan are not clear.

Unlike Russia, China is an adversary, its aggressiveness and intimidating tactics against Taiwan are mirrored in its belligerence towards India. Calling for restraint, cautioning against military escalation, advising recourse to diplomacy to resolve issues peacefully and expressing concern about interference in navigation through international waters can be rightly said by us, given our own stakes in curbing China's military adventurism and increasing threats, both lands based and maritime, to our own security. Such a norm based non-accusatory statement should not interfere in our efforts to resolve issues on the LAC that have arisen with China's border intrusions. China has a record of making statements on India-Pakistan issues.

As is happens, the Chinese ambassador has put us at a disadvantage by cautioning us in advance against India making any statement on Taiwan that displeases China.

China has described Nancy Pelosi's visit as reckless, irresponsible and extremely irrational. All these adjectives could apply more appropriately to China's response. Pelosi's visit was political in nature, to express US solidarity with Taiwan in the face of Chinese threats.

Taiwan is no position to threaten China militarily, much less invade it. Her visit did not pose any military threat to China whose response has been unabashedly military in nature. China has conducted military exercises encircling Taiwan, launched missiles, put in action fighter aircraft and drones and crossed the median line with the intention to intimidate Taiwan and signal to the US its capacity and readiness to achieve reunification by force if required.

China's claim that Pelosi's visit violates its sovereignty and territorial integrity has no political or legal basis. China may have sovereign claims over Taiwan, as it has over features in the South China and East China Seas, as well as over land belonging to India and Bhutan. But that does not make these claims legitimate. Invoking territorial integrity assumes that Taiwan is an integral part of China.

If that were the case, Taiwan would not have an international personality, issue its own passports, be a WTO member, have FTAs with a handful of countries as well as diplomatic relations. Setting up trade offices in Taiwan, as India has done, does not require Beijing's approval. There is a need to challenge the Chinese narrative.

China's ambassador to the US loftily claims that Taiwan has been an inseparable part of China's territory for 1,800 years. In 1895 Taiwan was ceded to Japan by the Chinese emperor.

The Allies restored it to the Republic of China (RoC) in 1945, not the People's Republic of China (PRC), whose legitimacy was questioned until Cold War calculations of profiting from the Sino-Soviet rift and the end of any prospect of "recovery of the mainland" by the Kuomintang regime in Taiwan coupled with the consolidation of the communist regime in mainland China under Mao, led to the replacement of RoC by the PRC as the only legitimist representative of China to the UN in 1971.

It needs remembering that it was not a unanimous resolution. Only 76 countries voted for, 35 voted against and 17 abstained. If so, many voted against or abstained, it is clear that while the issue of China's representation in the UN was decided, the issue of sovereignty over Taiwan was not. It was left to the two contending Chinas to resolve it in time. That in 1979 when US and China established diplomatic ties the US recognised the PRC as the sole legal government of China merely confirmed what had already been recognised by the UNGA in 1971, nothing more.

His other argument that Pelosi paid a high-profile "official visit to Taiwan", which he described as "extremely irresponsible, provocative and dangerous moves", ignores Speaker Newt Gingrich's visit in 1997, those by several Congressional delegations, including that by the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Bob Menendez to Taiwan in April this year. In June the Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe stated that China will "not hesitate to start a war" and "smash to smithereens" Taiwan is worth recalling.

The ambassador's analogy that "If an American state were to secede from the United States and declare independence, and then some other nation provided weapons and political support for that state, would the U.S. government - or the American people - allow this to happen?" begs the question how Taiwan has "seceded" from China. He claims that "The Taiwan question is about China's sovereignty and unity - not democracy" and that the US "should show respect for the call of the Chinese people", from which he excludes respect for the call of the people of Taiwan as implicitly undemocratic. This Chinese position explains why China has throttled democracy in Hong Kong in violation of an international treaty in the name of sovereignty. There is a lesson in this for Taiwanese democracy.

The ambassador concluded by visualising the possibility of a conflict between US and China over Taiwan. As it is, the manner in which China has raised the ante raises the question of how the US will meet China's openly belligerent challenge.

The placatory statements emanating from the US establishment and the belief of many that the US has unnecessarily stirred a hornet's nest do not provide clarity. That similar sense of caution and doubt is cast aside in the case of challenging Russia in Ukraine where there is no direct challenge to US power or military movements directed against it shows a flaw in America's geopolitics.

(Kanwal Sibal is India's former Foreign Secretary and Ambassador to Russia. Views expressed are personal and exclusive to India Narrative) (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
Nairobi, Aug 9 : Kenyans are voting on Tuesday to elect a President and a new Parliament, with around 22 million people eligible to cast their ballots in a closely fought election.

Pre-election polling put opposition leader and former prime minister Raila Odinga slightly ahead of William Ruto, who served as Vice President to the outgoing Uhuru Kenyatta, who has been President of the East African country for the past 10 years, reports dpa news agency.

Odinga is seeking the presidency for the fifth time and has campaigned on an anti-corruption ticket.

Ruto has pledged far-reaching economic reforms to improve the lot of small businesses and farms.

Rising food and fuel prices have added to tensions in the large country, which is home to a wide range of ethnic groups. Past elections have often been characterized by outbreaks of violence Kenya is nevertheless seen as a relatively stable country on the continent, and the two main candidates have indicated they intend to accept the election result.

They have also said they plan to continue close relations with the US and the European Union.

Under the Constitution, results must be published within seven days. With four candidates running, and a close result expected, a run-off election may well be necessary.

The election in the country of some 56 million inhabitants is the fifth presidential election since independence from Britain in 1963.

Members of the National Assembly and Senate were also chosen on Tuesday.
San Francisco, Aug 9 : Tech giant Apple has brought back the battery percentage icon, which displays the actual numerical amount of charge, on the status bar in its latest iOS 16 beta.

According to TechCrunch, the battery indicator returned in iOS 16 beta 5, but it still needs to be enabled for anyone running the beta through the Settings menu.

The option to toggle on battery percentage is found in the "battery" corner of the Settings menu, above the Low Power Mode toggle.

Reportedly, the update is limited to the beta users for now.

The battery percentage indicator made its debut way back in the iPhone 3GS era before disappearing with the advent of the notch on the iPhone X circa iOS 11 back in 2017.

Apple does not always keep every beta feature in a final release -- particularly if early feedback pushes back on something -- but the odds are high that the battery percentage icon is coming back in late September with the proper release of iOS 16, the report said.

Meanwhile, a recent report said that iOS 16 will let users edit an iMessage for five times and once they reach the limit, the edit option will disappear from the long-press menu.
Chennai, Aug 9 : Actress Tamannaah Bhatia, a classically trained dancer whose dancing skills are well known, will be one of the judges at the Bollywood dance competition that is to take place as part of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). Dancers from Fiji, Australia and New Zealand among others will be taking part in this competition, which the IFFM has been organising over the years. The idea of it was born after seeing the fondness for Bollywood dance across the globe. The organisers have been getting registrations from across the globe for this competition.

The actor will be joined by the present Miss Australia, Miss Kristen Wright, in co-judging the competition. "I have been a dancer all my life. Bollywood dance is something that I grew up with and our movie industry shows such a versatile culture it is even reflected in our dance choreographies. We all know Bollywood has a fan following beyond India. And what makes this competition so special is people from across the globe are coming to take part in this competition," says Tamannaah. She also adds, "I am really thankful to IFFM for giving me this opportunity to be part of this competition.

"The 13th edition of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2022 programme was officially launched by festival director Mitu Bhowmick Lange at the Indian Consulate of Melbourne. Mitu says, "Indian movies have always had a huge fan following in Australia. The country is a powerhouse of talent and has given some of the most extremely talented artists in the world. Bollywood music and dance is an independent genre in itself and people are just waiting for a platform to express their talent and are providing that platform. And this time, we have got Tamannaah to judge the competition and she is a part of Bollywood and Southern India film industries. She has a huge following. It will be a treat for her fans to see her in person." IFFM will be taking place, physically and virtually, from August 12-20, 2022. After the pandemic, this is the first time it has come with its physical event, since 2020 and 2021 was done virtually. It is one of the biggest Indian film festivals that takes place outside of India and is also the only Indian film festival backed by the Australian government. The film festival will showcase more than 100 critically acclaimed movies. Some of the movies that are lined up for this year's festival are the upcoming Aamir Khan-starrer 'Laal Singh Chaddha', Taapsee Pannu's 'Dobaaraa' and the critically acclaimed 'Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui'.

The event will be hosting some of the big names of Bollywood like Abhishek Bachchan, Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap, Vaani Kapoor to name a few.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : The Delhi Police on Tuesday arrested four persons and apprehended one juvenile in connection with a murder in West Delhi's Moti Nagar area on Monday night.

The accused have been identified as Bunty, Sarjeet, Rahul and Sanju while the name of the juvenile has been withheld.

A senior police officer said that they received a PCR call about a man found in an injured state at around 11:30 p.m. on August 8 following which a police team was sent to the crime scene near Gol Chakar on Rama Road in Moti Nagar.

"On inquiry, the police found that the injured person, identified as Balram, was shifted to ABG Hospital where he was declared brought dead," the officer said.

The police then recorded the statement of the eyewitnesses and the brother of the deceased.

Balram's brother told the police that a heated argument broke out between the victim and a person named Bunty, following which the latter, along with his associates, first assaulted Balram with knives and then shot him, leading to his death.

The police then filed an FIR against the accused under the relevant sections of the IPC at the Moti Nagar police station.

The police learnt that the deceased had enmity with the accused. All the accused persons have been arrested and two knives used in the murder have been recovered from their possession.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Amid hectic political activities in Patna, sources said a broad consensus on the government formation has been built, which includes retaining Nitish Kumar as the chief minister, Tejaswi Yadav the Deputy Chief Minister and Speaker from the RJD.

The promise of five lakh jobs for the youths is also one of the key points of RJD's reunion with JD(U) .

The RJD had mooted the idea of public welfare and its manifesto had promised 10 lakh jobs.

"The first decision will be the announcement of jobs," said an insider, who claimed that there are no differences on the power sharing arrangements.

The Congress is likely to get a ministerial berth after a formula was evolved during the discussions while the Left parties may extend their support from the outside.

Earlier, in the day, the Congress and Left parties handed over the lists of their legislators to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav.

Mandan Mohan Jha, the state president of Congress said: "We will support Nitish Kumar if he leaves the BJP and forms a new government with the help of Mahagathbandhan. We have also given the list of all 19 MLAs of our party to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav." Mahboob Alam, the MLA of CPI (ML) said: "We have also given the list to Tejashwi Yadav. We will uproot the BJP from power. We are giving support to Nitish Kumar for the formation of a new government.
Chennai, Aug 9 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin on Tuesday assured his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan that the Mullaperiyar dam, which is geographically in Kerala but operated by Tamil Nadu, was safe.

Replying to a letter sent by the Kerala Chief Minister on August 5, Chief Minister Stalin said water regulation of the dam is being done as per the Rule Curve and Gate Operation schedule approved by the Central Water Commission in February 2021.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Vijayan, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister said that the inflow to the dam in the first week of August was moderate and the rainfall in the catchment area of the dam was comparatively lesser than the rainfall in the downstream areas of the dam.

The Tamil Nadu chief minister said that when the water level was 136 feet at 7 p.m. on August 4, the field officers of Tamil Nadu had informed the Kerala counterparts by 7.40 p.m. itself of the possibility of opening the spillway gates on August 5.

Stalin said that this was done in anticipation of future inflows and that the information was also passed on to the District Collector, Idukki. He said that the spillway shutters were opened on August 5 and from then onwards, the spillway discharge was stepped up incrementally and avoided sudden releases.

He said that as of August 8 at 7 a.m., the water level of the dam stood at 138.85 feet and the average inflow was 6942 cusecs, with a spillway discharge of 5000 cusecs, and added that this was done in total conformity with the approved Rule Curve.

The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister in the letter informed the Kerala Chief Minister that the dam management team of his state was focused on the precautionary measures to be taken on time in ensuring the safety of the people residing downstream of the Mullaperiyar Dam.

He also said that the officers involved in the dam management were directed to regularly and continuously communicate with the officers of Kerala.
Vietnam records additional 2,340 Covid-19 infections

The Vietnamese Ministry of Health on Tuesday reported an additional 2,340 Covid-19 infections, raising the country's total tally to over 11 million.













Illustrative photo





According to the ministry's report, the number of Covid-19 patients in Vietnam has increased to 11,351,563.



On August 9, an additional 9,520 more patients recovered from the disease, raising the number of recoveries in the country to over 9.99 million.



On Tuesday evening, no deaths from Covid-19 were recorded. The country's total fatalities stood at 43,094, accounting for 0.4 per cent of total infections.



By August 9, the country had injected more than 248 million doses of Covid-19 vaccines.



Vietnam is targeting the completion of Covid-19 inoculation for children aged between 5 - 11 in August, as well as the administration of the third shot for those aged 12 - 17, as well as the third and fourth doses to people aged 18 and above as soon as possible.
Kuwait firmly supports one-China principle

Xinhua) 16:50, August 09, 2022

KUWAIT CITY, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Kuwaiti Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Majdi Ahmed Al-Dhafiri has said his country firmly supports the one-China principle.

When meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Zhang Jianwei here on Sunday, Al-Dhafiri said Kuwait scrupulously abides by this position as well as all related international resolutions. He also stressed the need for all sides to respect the basic norms governing international relations to maintain world peace and stability.

The Chinese ambassador said the one-China principle is a universally recognized basic norm governing international relations and a consensus of the international community, adding that Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi's visit to China's Taiwan region seriously violated the one-China principle, and infringed on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Jaipur, Aug 9 : A 75-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman welcomed their first child in Rajasthan's Alwar on Monday after 54 years of their marriage.

The doctors claimed it to be the only case in the state. However, with IVF technology, many elderly couples in the country and world have become parents even at the age of 70-80 years.

Gopichand, the proud father, is a former soldier of Nuhaniya village of Jhunjhunu, who was shot in the leg during the Bangladesh war.

Dr Pankaj Gupta said that both the child and the mother are doing fine. The weight of the child is about 3.5 kgs.

"There are only a few cases of children being born at this age across the country. This is probably the first case of Rajasthan when a 75-year-old man and 70-year-old woman have got a child," he said.

An elated Gopichand said: "Happy that we can take our family forward as I am the only son of my father Nainu Singh, '' he added.

About one-and-a-half years ago, Gopichand approached the fertility centre through his relative. Chandravati Devi was able to conceive nine months ago in the third attempt through the IVF. While there was happiness, there was an element of fear also due to the advanced age of the mother. But finally on Monday, she delivered a healthy baby.

According to Gupta, a law was passed by Parliament recently which came into effect from June 2022. According to it, no IVF infertility centre will be able to provide treatment to women and men above 50 years. But the couple was lucky as the woman had conceived before the law came into force.

It's been 40 years since Gopichand retired from the Army. Gopi Singh was also shot in the Bangladesh war. It is a matter of coincidence that Colonel Reena Yadav, the doctor who performed Chandravati's caesarean operation, is also a soldier.
Gurugram, Aug 9 : A 60-year-old woman, who was declared brain dead after suffering an intracranial hemorrhage, gave new lease of life to at least four persons after her family members agreed to organ donation at Gurugram's Paras Hospital, an official said on Tuesday.

The woman was admitted to the hospital on July 7 and the doctors declared her brain dead on July 10. The same day her family members gave nod for organ donation, hoping she would still live through her organs.

Once the family officially consented to donate her organs - both her kidneys and eyes were allotted by the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO). One of her kidneys was given to a 42-year-old male patient at the same hospital, while the other one was donated to a 17-year-old female patient at Asian Hospital in Faridabad. The eyes were donated to two persons at private hospitals in Delhi.

P.N. Gupta, Director and HoD in the Department of Nephrology and Kidney Transplant, Paras Hospital, said: "She was admitted with intracranial hemorrhage and her general condition was critical. Despite the best efforts of the neurosurgical team, she was declared brain dead.

"Very few families realise the importance of organ donation. With her organs, four persons got new lease of life. Thousands of people die due to non-availability of organs, irrespective of age, gender, cast or religion. Anybody can be an organ donor."
Patna, Aug 9 : Following Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's resignation and announcement of leaving the NDA on Tuesday, state BJP President Sanjay Jaiswal termed it a clear case of cheating with people of Bihar and his party.

"Whatever happened in Patna on Tuesday, is a cheating with the people of Bihar and BJP," he said.

"During the 2020 Assembly election, the people of Bihar had given the mandate to the NDA. Our PM Narendra Modi and HM Amit Shah fulfilled their promises and gave the post of Chief Minister to Nitish Kumar. The way Nitish Kumar broke the alliance, the people of Bihar would not forgive him. He has insulted the mandate of people," he said.

Former Union Minister and former JD-U leader R.C.P. Singh also claimed that Nitish Kumar cheated the mandate of 2020 Assembly election by breaking the alliance with the BJP.

BJP hardliner and Union Minister Giriraj Singh claimed that Nitish Kumar is wanting to compete with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and hence, he went with RJD's Tejashwi Yadav.

"There is a discussion going in the political circle that Nitish Kumar is the front runner in the race for Prime Minister. Hence, he is going with Tejashwi Yadav. There is no vacancy in BJP, hence he executed his 'paltimar' (switchover) plan. The BJP always takes Nitish Kumar forward. In the 2020 Assembly election, JD-U had only 43 seats, still BJP made him Chief Minister of Bihar," Singh said.

"Tejashwi Yadav used the word 'Paltu Ram' for Nitish Kumar. I cannot say something like what Tejashwi said for him. Nitish Kumar is responsible for breaking the alliance with the BJP," he added.
Chandigarh, Aug 9 : Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday told the Assembly that directions would be given to complete the vigilance inquiry in allocating tender for the construction of a road in the Municipal Corporation Faridabad and strict action will be taken against the erring employees.

Replying to a question in the Question Hour, the Chief Minister said it has been mentioned in Rule 8 of the Municipal Rules of 1976 that only 10 per cent enhancement can be done in the construction work.

"No more enhancement is allowed. However, in many cases there has been an enhancement of more than 10 per cent. This is because the defined interpretation of Rule 8 is not correct," he said.

Khattar said directions would be given to the department to correct this interpretation. "If there is more than 10 per cent enhancement, then re-tender should be done." The Chief Minister said it has been decided that the road should be made of concrete and not of tar. "If there is any kind of corruption in it, then action will be taken after investigation." Replying to another question, Transport Minister Mool Chand Sharma said the government is committed to ban plying of overloaded vehicles in the state.

Strict fine of overloaded vehicles is being done by the enforcement agencies, he said.

From April 1 to July 31, a total of 15,751 overloaded vehicles were issued challan and a fine of Rs 66,48,36,100 has been recovered. Besides, 460 driving licences and 152 permits have been cancelled.

Replying to a question, Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala said there was no proposal of the government to release 1,810 acres of Kasan, Kukrola and Shravan villages in Gurugram district and the compensation will be given to the landowners as per the law.

He said the issue is pending before the Supreme Court. The Revenue and Disaster Management Department had issued the Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy of 2010.

"As per this policy, residential plots are allotted to eligible landowners in lieu of their acquired land." On a question of giving market rate to the owners of the acquired land by member Satya Prakash, he said the government will try to compensate.

The Chief Minister informed the assembly during Zero Hour that the Common Eligibility Test (CET) for the recruitment of about 28,000 Group-C and Group-D posts would be conducted on November 5, 6 and 7.

He said it has been decided to conduct the CET examination through the national testing agency.
Panaji, Aug 9 : Offering to adopt the government primary schools, which are to be merged on account of less students, AAP's Goa unit on Tuesday said that they will boost enrolment and improve results in the state, using Delhi model.

A delegation of AAP leaders led by AAP Goa unit President Amit Palekar on Tuesday handed over a memorandum to the Director of Education Shailesh Zingde and requested him to take back the decision of merging the government primary schools in the interest of public and students.

"We are ready to help government only for cause that these schools will not be closed. Govt should not see us as political party, rather should join hands with us to save these schools, Palekar said adding students will get additional resources, learning and infrastructure with their concept.

AAP-Goa has two MLAs in 40-member State Assembly.

"AAP is willing to take over these schools if the government acknowledges that it has failed to provide Goan children with educational facilities they need and deserve. We'll demonstrate using our Delhi model how to boost enrolment and improve results in Goa as well," Palekar stated.

Palekar said that the first Goa Chief Minister late Dayanand Bandodkar had laid the foundation of education by establishing government primary schools in nearly every village throughout the state with the sole purpose of bringing education to everyone and practically to their doorstep.

"Enrollment of students has dropped as a result of the BJP government's complete neglect of the government primary schools in recent years. There is a solution to increase the enrolment, we can do it," Palekar said.

"By merging the schools, a child will now be required to attend a school that would be nearly 4 to 5 km from their home. The child will experience great hardship as a result of having to walk to school while carrying a heavy bag because many of the villages lack transportation services," he stated.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : The Supreme Court has said the scope of interference in an appeal against acquittal is very limited, unless the view taken by court is impossible or perverse, as it upheld the acquittal of a man accused of killing his wife and burning her body.

A bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and P.S. Narasimha said: "The scope of interference in an appeal against acquittal is very limited. Unless it is found that the view taken by the court is impossible or perverse, it is not permissible to interfere with the finding of acquittal." "Equally if two views are possible, it is not permissible to set aside an order of acquittal, merely because the appellate court finds the way of conviction to be more probable. The interference would be warranted only if the view taken is not possible at all," it added.

The top court dismissed the appeal filed by the Rajasthan government challenging the September 2009 judgement of the high court, where the court acquitted the accused while reversing his conviction in the case by trial court.

State government counsel had argued that the accused's extra-judicial confession before one of the witnesses in the case would inspire confidence and pressed for setting aside the high court judgment in the matter.

However, the apex court, stressing that it is not inclined to interfere with the high court judgment, said: "The high court, relying on the judgment of this court in the case of State of Punjab v. Bhajan Singh and others, so also in the case of Gopal Sah v State of Bihar has held that extra-judicial confession was a weak piece of evidence and unless there was some corroboration, the conviction solely on the basis of extra-judicial confession could not be sustained. The view taken by the high court cannot be said to be either impossible or perverse meriting our interference." It was alleged that the Jodhpur-based accused had killed his wife and to destroy evidence, he had set her body on fire. In 1986, the accused was by convicted by the trial court for murder and sentenced him to him to suffer life imprisonment. The accused was acquitted by the high court in September 2009.
Chandigarh, Aug 9 : Simranjit Singh Mann, a proponent for a separate Sikh homeland and SAD (Amritsar) MP from Sangrur, has kicked up a row by asking people to hoist 'kesari' or Sikh religious flags atop their houses on Independence Day in place of the national flag as part of the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign.

In a message, Mann appealed to the people to hoist saffron flags and Nishan Sahib on their houses on August 14 and 15.

The Nishan Sahib flag is a symbol of Sikh religion.

Earlier this week, Mann had tweeted, "Best tribute to the 75th anniversary of Independence would be to liberate Ladakh from China rather than fluttering flags. Besides, provide food and shelter to the poor. If Nancy Pelosi could do it, so can the politicos and generals. Facta Non Verba." Mann's statement on flags has evoked strong reactions from different political parties.

Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring has criticised a section of radical leadership for trying to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere in the state.

Reacting to a call by these leaders, including by Mann, who recently took an oath under the Constitution, Warring said such actions are clearly meant to vitiate the hard-earned peace in Punjab.

He said the tricolour is a national symbol and every Indian should respect it.

"Nobody stops anyone from displaying 'kesari' flag atop their houses and every Sikh is and should be proud of the 'kesari' colour as it is the symbol of the ever great and glorious spirit of Khalsa," Warring said.

The tricolour is the national symbol of India's Independence and it deserves to be respected and honoured, he added.

"Tens of thousands of people, most of them Punjabis and Sikhs, have laid down their lives to safeguard the honour of the tricolour and those trying to disrespect it are disrespecting our own martyrs and their martyrdom," Warring said.

Reacting to Mann's statement, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said the country has been freed from the British after sacrifices made by "our forefathers".

"Those opposing the tricolour have taken oath under the Constitution," he said.
Chandigarh, Aug 9 : In a major breakthrough in the killing of Shaurya Chakra awardee Balwinder Singh Sandhu in 2020, Punjab Police on Tuesday arrested key accused Gurwinder Singh, a.k.a. Baba, from Tarn Taran.

His two aides -- Sandeep Singh and Gurpreet Singh -- were also arrested, They were allegedly involved in cross-border smuggling of narcotics and weapons.

The police have also recovered one hand-grenade, one RDX-IED, two .30 bore pistols, besides magazines and 13 cartridges, 635 gm heroin, 100 gm opium, Rs 36.90 lakh drug money, and one Mitsubishi Lancer car from their possession.

Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said accused Gurwinder Singh, who was wanted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA), had played a key role in the killing of Sandhu by providing weapons to shooters.

A probe revealed that Gurwinder is a close associate of gangsters Sukhpreet Singh and Sukhmeetpal Singh.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the recovered explosives and arms and ammunition were to be used to disrupt peace and harmony and create a sense of terror in the state on or before Independence Day, said the DGP.

Inspector General of Police (Ferozepur Range) Jaskaran Singh said following inputs that Gurwinder Baba with his aide Sandeep was on the way to Khadoor Sahib, the Tarn Taran police had intercepted their car and managed to arrest them.

SSP Ranjit Singh Dhillon said the arrests are likely to lead to disclosures of cross-border smuggling modules.

Two motorcycle-borne assailants shot dead Shaurya Chakra awardee Sandhu at his residence in Bhikhiwind in the border district of Tarn Taran in October 2020.
Chennai, Aug 9 : AIADMK's first-ever MP K. Maya Thevar on Tuesday passed away at his native Chinnalpatti vilage in Tamil Nadu's Dindigul after age-related illness. He was 87.

His family members told media persons that the veteran leader was not keeping well for the past few days and he passed away due to a massive heart attack.

The veteran leader was handpicked by none other than the AIADMK's founder-leader M.G. Ramachandran to contest parliamentary polls. Also the one who selected the "two leaves" symbol for the AIADMK, he was the first party leader to contest an election (bypoll from the Dindigul constituency in 1973) on the new symbol and won handsomely.

Expressing his deep condolences, AIADMK interim General Secretary and former Chief Minister K. Palaniswami said: "He was the first person to contest on the two leaves symbol of the AIADMK shortly after the party was formed and went on to win with a huge margin." Former Chief Minister and expelled AIADMK leader O. Panneerselvam, noted that it was Maya Thevar who had selected the party symbol. He also said that Maya Thevar, being a practicing advocate, had contested several cases on behalf of the party.

AMMK leader T.T.V. Dhinakaran, and AIADMK's expelled former Interim General Secretary V.K. Sasikala also expressed their condolences on his passing away.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Financial services platform Mswipe Technologies on Tuesday said it has received an in-principal Payment Aggregator (PA) license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

With this approval, Mswipe will be able to develop an in-house online payment gateway.

The PA License will allow the company to bridge the gap between merchants and customers by accepting and processing digital payments.

"MSMEs are the backbone of the Indian business ecosystem, and the PA License will enable us to provide them with simpler, affordable and integrated digital payment solutions," said Ketan Patel, the CEO of Mswipe.

Mswipe ois among the leading point of sales (PoS) solutions providers and an end-to-end digital payment enabler for MSMEs.

Mswipe said it will concentrate on expanding and reaching out to more MSMEs by offering them with all the options, including PoS terminals, QR-code payments, boombox (payment soundbox), payment gateways, and even lending solutions.

Headquartered in Mumbai, Mswipe began operations in 2011.

Its key investors include B Capital, UC-RNT, Falcon Edge Capital, Matrix Capital Partners, DSG Partners and Epiq Capital.

The central bank issued a payment aggregator framework in March 2020, stating that payment gateways will be mandated to have a license in order to acquire merchants and provide them with digital payments acceptance solutions.

Under the RBI's strict evaluation process, more than 185 fintech enterprises and startups submitted their proposals for a payment aggregator license.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : The petitioner against the 'freebies' promises during polls has told the Supreme Court that the country's two highest economic bodies have expressed concern on their distribution by the state government and emphasised that before distribution and/or promise of freebies, an "economic impact assessment" is essential for a sustainable economy.

Senior advocate Vijay Hansaria, on behalf of the petitioner, advocate Ashwini Upadhyay, said: "It is submitted that two highest economic bodies of the country have expressed concern and long-term impact on the distribution of freebies by the states without proper fiscal and budgetary management. It is submitted that before distribution and/or promise of freebies, an 'Economic Impact Assessment' is essential for a sustainable economy." The submissions have been made in a PIL filed by Upadhyay seeking action against political parties for "irrational freebies".

Hansaria contended that under Article 293(3) of the Constitution, the state government cannot raise any loan or borrow money where the loan of the Union government is outstanding, and in such circumstances, borrowing can be made only with the consent of the Centre and it can impose such conditions as it thinks fit under clause (4).

"It is submitted that the state governments have been borrowing money even when the loan from Government of India is outstanding without complying with the requirements of Article 293(3) and (4). It is necessary to have a strict enforcement of these provisions including a 'system of credit rating' being introduced for grant of credit facilities to the state government", said the submissions, filed through advocate Ashwani Kumar Dubey.

The petitioner urged the top court to constitute a Committee of Experts to make recommendations after examining the practice of making electoral commitments involving financial resources (freebies) without adequacy of budgetary provisions and suggest remedial measures, formulation of a comprehensive policy to reduce debt to GSDP (Gross State Domestic Product) ratio of the states, formulate principles of debt sustainability and fiscal discipline of the state government, and prepare an 'Economic Impact Assessment' module to be published an before any freebies are announced or distributed by the state government/ political parties etc., On August 3, the Supreme Court, while hearing Upadhyay's PIL, had acknowledged that some help to the poor is required, but it also wanted to know the impact of freebies on the national economy. The top court had sought suggestions from stakeholders and recommended setting up an expert panel to scrutinise the issues associated with "irrational freebies".

The top court asked stakeholders like the Centre, the NITI Aayog, the Finance Commission and the Reserve Bank of India, to brainstorm on the issues associated with freebies announcement during polls.
Kolkata, Aug 9 : An assistant professor at Kolkata's reputed St Xavier's University, who was forced to resign in October last year for posting pictures in swimsuit on Indtagram, has been recently slapped with a defamation notice by the university authorities demanding damage compensation to the tune of Rs 99 crore.

The incident took place in October last year after the father of a student complained to the university authorities that he caught his son engrossed in the swimsuit-clad pictures of the assistant professor.

In his complaint, the parent contended that it was "obscene, vulgar and improper for an 18-year-old student to see his professor dressed in scanty clothes exhibiting her body on a public platform".

Summoned for explanation by the university authorities, the teacher said that under no circumstance any of her students could access those pictures which she posted on Instagram two months before she joined the university, as by then the pictures would have gone automatically to the trash section.

She argued that her Instagram profile was private and hence the pictures there cannot be viewed by anyone other than her followers. She also expressed apprehension that her Instagram profile might have been hacked.

However, the university authorities refused to accept her logic and she was given the option to resign or get terminated. After she resigned, she filed an FIR with the Kolkata Police claiming that her Instagram account might have been hacked.

Meanwhile, she had also sent a letter to the university authorities through her lawyer asking for a copy of the complaint filed by the parent of the student.

In reply, the authorities slapped her with a counter legal notice claiming that her earlier legal notice was an 'ill-motivated', 'desperate' and 'dishonest' attempt to open a closed chapter, thus causing immense and irreparable damage to the image of the institute.

In that counter legal notice, the university authorities also sought a damage compensation of Rs 99 crore.

Meanwhile, netizens in the city are divided over the development. While some have resorted to bashing the assistant professor on moral grounds, others have said that whatever one does beyond his or her professional arena is not the business of his or her employer.
Chennai, Aug 9 : Communist Party of India-Marxist's Tamil Nadu Secretary K. Balakrishna said that the Raj Bhavan was turning into a political camp, citing Monday's meeting between Governor R.N. Ravi and Tamil super star Rajinikanth, who latter said that "they had discussed politics".

In a statement on Tuesday, the CPI-M leader, asking whether the Raj Bhavan is the residence of the Governor or the officer of a party, said that it was not a party office to discuss politics.

"It is acceptable to meet the Governor as a matter of respect. However, the Governor's official residence is not a place for political discourse. The Governor should not act as the representative of a political party. What is the necessity of the Governor to discuss political matters with the actor that cannot be shared with the media? Thereby in an unconstitutional manner, the Governor's office has been turned into a political camp," he said.

The CPI-M leader said that the Governor was going beyond his limit as a constitutional authority, and termed it condemnable to turn his office into a camp to run a parallel government against the elected government.

"How long are we going to tolerate this behaviour of the Governor who continues to act beyond the limits of his authority," Balakrishnan asked.
Patna, Aug 9 : RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav praised Nitish Kumar, who submitted his resignation as Chief Minister on Tuesday, for his "bold decision" to come out from the NDA.

"The BJP was conspiring against JD-U and trying to weaken Nitish Kumar. BJP did the same in Maharashtra and Punjab and it was doing the same in Bihar to destroy the JD-U. He took the bold decision and left the NDA," Tejashwi said after returning from Raj Bhavan with Nitish Kumar and other leaders of the Mahagathbandhan, where they staked a claim to form a government.

"We are socialist people and we are capable of carrying our legacy. We are united on several issues like caste-based census in the past. Nitish Kumar is the most experienced Chief Minister of the country. The decision of becoming prime ministerial candidate in the upcoming Lok Sabha election would be his own decision," he added.

On his part, Nitish Kumar said: "After the result of the 2020 Assembly election of Bihar, our party had won only 43 seats and I wasn't ready to become the Chief Minister. When I was ruling in coalition with BJP, its leaders were saying many things which I did not like. Hence, I resigned from the post of Chief Minister." "Now, we will form the government with Mahagathbandhan and we have the support of 165 MLAs. The Mahagathbandhan comprises 7 political parties. So we will run the government with the support of seven parties in Bihar.

"We have staked claim before Governor Phagu Chauhan to form a new government in Bihar. We have also handed over the list of 165 MLAs before him," he said.

Sources have said that Nitish Kumar wants a swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday. Now, it's up to the Governor to decide and invite Nitish Kumar to become Chief Minister of Bihar for the eight time.
Hyderabad, Aug 9 : Well-known Telugu actress and former Congres MLA Jayasudha is likely to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She has reportedly agreed to join the party after the saffron party leadership approached her.

She is likely to formally join the BJP along with Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy at a public meeting to be addressed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Munugode Assembly constituency on August 21.

Rajagopal Reddy recently resigned from the Congress and submitted his resignation from the Assembly on Monday. He was elected from Munuogde constituency in 2018.

BJP MLA and former minister Eatala Rajender is reported to have met Jayasudha, inviting her to join the party. She is said to have laid certain preconditions before the BJP and conveyed to the party leadership that she will join the party if those preconditions are met. The state leadership of the BJP is waiting for a nod from the central leaders.

The invitation to Jaysudha is part of BJP's efforts to woo leaders from various parties and well-known personalities to its fold to bolster its prospects for 2023 Assembly elections.

The actress, who played leading roles in many films in 1970s and 1980s, had joined politics at the invitation of Congress leader and then Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhar Reddy in 2009.

She was elected to Andhra Pradesh Assembly from Secunderabad constituency in 2009. She, however, could not retain the seat in the 2014 elections.

She had quit the Congress to join the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in 2016 but remained largely inactive in it.

In 2019, she along with her son Nihar Kapoor had joined YSR Congress Party headed by Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy, who became the chief minister of Andhra Pradesh the same year.

Jayasudha had stressed her close relation with Andhra Pradesh but had made it clear that she had no plans to contest the elections.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Chip-maker Qualcomm has captured the smartphone applications processor (AP) market with a 45 per cent revenue share in the first quarter (Q1) this year, followed by MediaTek with 25 per cent and Apple with 22 per cent share, according to a new report.

The global smartphone AP market grew 35 per cent to reach $8.9 billion in Q1.

5G-attached AP shipments accounted for 53 per cent of total smartphone APs shipped in the January-March period, according to Strategy Analytics.

Despite momentum with Snapdragon flagship chips, Samsung Foundry lost share due to weak Exynos shipments.

"Qualcomm's 4 nm-based flagship AP Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 gained strong traction in Q1 2022. The company's increased share in Samsung's Galaxy S devices drove its smartphone apps processor (AP) revenue to an all-time high," said Sravan Kundojjala, Director of Handset Component Technologies service.

Qualcomm has been able to navigate China and macro concerns well with its premium and high-tier 5G APs, which are seeing high demand from Android smartphone manufacturers.

"Samsung's Exynos AP shipments fell 40 per cent in Q1 due to increased competition from Qualcomm at Samsung Mobile. However, the company showed signs of recovery with mid-range APs such as Exynos 1280, featured in high-volume Galaxy A-series devices," Kundojjala said.

Smartphone APs manufactured in 7 nm and below process nodes accounted for 48 percent of total smartphone AP shipments in Q1.

"The low-end smartphone market demand is currently weak. We think inventory digestion will happen in the second-half of 2022 as vendors continue to destock their supplies," said the report.

New entrants Google and JLQ Technologies (a JV of Leadcore and Qualcomm) together shipped less than a million APs in Q1 2022. On the other hand, HiSilicon's shipments declined to near zero.

"MediaTek and Unisoc both posted an impressive performance in Q1 2022. MediaTek's Dimensity 9000 premium tier AP was off to a promising start but shipments amounted to slightly less than 1 million during the quarter," said Kundojjala.
Mumbai, Aug 9 : Bollywood actress Daisy Shah has always been passionate about dance and it was all fun for her to shoot for foot-tapping Marathi number "Raghu Pinjryat Ala" from "Dagadi Chawl 2".

She said: "I have always been passionate about dance and this dance number was a different experience altogether. The energy needed was so high that I just went for the kill. The thrill and excitement on set were contagious." The actress, who is known for films such as "Jai Ho" and "Hate Story 3", said that she has given her best and she is quite satisfied.

"There are so many actresses I look up to when it comes to dance numbers. I am happy I could do justice to such a wonderful song," she added.

The song has been sung by Amritraj and Mugdha, penned by Kshitij Patwardhan and choreographed by Adi Shaikh.

Directed by Chandrakant Kanse and produced by Sangeeta Ahir, the Marathi action thriller, "Dagadi Chawl" featuring Ankush Chaudhari, and Makrand Despande is all set to release on August 18.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday said the freebie culture has led to deteriorating financial health of many states.

Addressing the Indian Information Service (IIS) officers of 2018 and 2019 batches who came to call on him at his official residence here, Naidu cautioned against the populist measures to garner votes by various political parties.

"The government should definitely support the poor and needy but at the same time should prioritise health, education and infrastructure development," he said.

The Vice President highlighted the role of communication in bridging the divide between the governments and citizens.

"In a democracy, people need to be empowered through timely information on government's policies and initiatives in their mother tongues. On the other hand, governments also need to be apprised of people's expectations and aspirations in an objective and timely manner," Naidu said.

He emphasised the need for constant dialogue between the people and the governments for citizen centric and responsive governance. He said that policymaking and implementation should be a two way process with people's participation at every stage.

Describing India as the largest Parliamentary democracy in the world, he said that the purpose of any reform process should be to make people's life happy and prosperous.

"Therefore, the focus of all government policy measures should be on bringing lasting happiness to people's lives and at the same time, underscored the need to bear with temporary pain for long term gain," he said.

Mentioning that "the ICT revolution and spread of the internet have fundamentally changed the way we consume news, he cautioned that this 'ease of information' comes with its associated risks".

"Misinformation, disinformation and fake news have emerged as new challenges which need to be promptly tackled by the government communicators round the clock," he said.

The Vice President also cautioned against the misuse of social media by certain anti-social elements and called for curbing such tendencies at the earliest.

Drawing attention to the growing trend of 'instant journalism' triggered by the emergence of Internet and social media expansion, Naidu expressed concerns about the erosion of journalistic norms and ethos due to this.

He emphasised the importance of neutrality and objectivity in media reporting and said "news should not be mixed with views".

"Media is the fourth pillar of democracy and its neutrality, objectivity and fairness is crucial for survival of India's democratic ethos," the Vice President said.

He also asked the young officers to bring forth many developmental stories from across the nation.

Terming information and psychological warfare as an important dimension of modern day wars, Naidu advised the IIS officers to develop expertise in these emerging and strategic areas.

Referring to the increasing frequency of extreme climatic events and erratic weather patterns across the globe, the Vice President asked the young officers to run a mass media campaign for nature conservation and environmental protection.

"If you love nature, nature will protect you," he told them.

During the address, his last as the Vice President, Naidu said: "The key to my rise from an ordinary farmer's son to the second-highest constitutional post in the country lies in sheer hard work, single-minded devotion and constant travel and interaction with the people in every part of the country. I have learned a lot by meeting and talking to people."
Chennai, Aug 9 : Puducherry Chief Minister N. Rangasamy called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Tuesday. This is the first time the Puducherry Chief Minister had met the Prime Minister after assuming office 15 months before.

Rangasamy had drawn flak for not meeting the Prime Minister even as his political party, All India NR Congress (AINRC) was a coalition partner of the BJP. There were criticisms that even opposition Chief Ministers like Pinarayi Vijayan of Kerala, Mamata Banerjee of West Bengal and M.K. Stalin of Tamil Nadu regularly meet the Prime Minister despite strongly opposing the central government and its policies.

Rangasamy met the Prime Minister a day before the Puducherry assembly convenes on Wednesday and the government must pass the budget for the current fiscal before August 31.

The government of the Union Territory had passed a Vote on Account for Rs 3613 crore on March 31 and this was to meet the expenses of the territorial government for five months till August 31.

The Puducherry government in a statement said that the Chief Minister had an elaborate discussion with PM Modi on the statehood of the Union Territory and also extending the GST compensation.
Amaravati, Aug 9 : The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) on Tuesday lodged a complaint with the Lok Sabha Speaker against YSRCP MP Gorantla Madhav over his alleged nude video call.

The TDP urged Speaker Om Birla to take stringent action against the Hindupur MP of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP).

TDP MPs K. Ram Mohan Naidu and K. Ravinda Kumar alleged that the YSRCP is trying to shield its MP. Slamming the YSRCP leadership for taking no action against the MP though the video had gone viral, they said: "We are confident that the Lok Sabha Speaker will act on our letter." Naidu noted that initially YSRCP General Secretary and government advisor Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy initially said that the MP will be suspended but now the party is not trying to play down the issue, by calling a private matter.

The TDP leader said the YSRCP leadership may be scared that if action is taken against Madhav, then it will also have to act against half of the party. He alleged that almost all the YSRCP leaders are either involved in videos or audios.

Naidu said the safety of women in Andhra Pradesh is under a threat and Madhav's issue has proved it beyond doubt. He demanded that the YSRCP initiate immediate measures for protection of women.

Ravindra Kumar said that even woman leaders in the YSRCP are feeling ashamed of Madhav. "Why are you maintaining silence on this," he asked. He said the MPs from not just Andhra Pradesh but the entire country are seriously discussing the issue of Madhav. How much time does it take for getting the forensic lab report on Madhav's video, he asked.
Islamabad, Aug 9 : Authorities in Pakistan suspended a mainstream television channel in what critics denounced as an illegal move to stifle media freedom in the country, the media reported.

Private Pakistani cable operators were ordered by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to block the transmission of ARY News immediately "till further notice", VOA reported.

The state regulator later sent a formal "show cause notice" to the broadcaster, accusing it of airing "false, hateful and seditious content". It went on to argue that ARY News aired comments early Monday on one of its shows by a spokesman for ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan which PEMRA said were "tantamount to inciting (the) ranks and files of armed forces towards revolt".

PEMRA went on to say in the letter that "airing of such content on your news channel shows either a weak editorial in the content or the licensee is intentionally indulged in providing its platform to such individuals who intend to spread malice and hatred against the state institution for their vested interest".

Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Party (PTI) accused the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of sponsoring a social media campaign aimed at proving the opposition party is anti-army, VOA reported.

The TV channel rejected PEMRA's charges as unlawful, and so did legal experts, journalists and PTI leaders.

Salman Iqbal, founder and CEO of one of the most popular channels in Pakistan, tweeted that his ARY News "gets shut down just because we reported a true story".

Muhammad Ahmad Pansota, a lawyer and legal analyst, condemned PEMRA for suspending ARY News without any legal justification.

In a tweet, he called freedom of the press a constitutionally guaranteed right that must not be tampered with by anyone, including the state, VOA reported.

Sedition allegations, critics say, are often used to intimidate and harass media outlets and journalists critical of the powerful military institution.

Mubashir Zaidi, a prime-time television anchor, advised the government against suspending any channel, noting such an action is in violation of recent judicial orders.

"But in this case, shutdown happened ahead of the notice, and the action will be declared illegal by the courts sooner or later," Zaid tweeted.

Media watchdogs also suspect the military is behind a recent campaign of intimidation and harassment against journalists in Pakistan -- charges the government and army reject, VOA reported.
Kolkata, Aug 9 : Even with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probing the cattle smuggling case in West Bengal going all out to get Trinamool Congress strongman Anubrata Mandal for questioning, a medical report issued by a sub-divisional hospital has come handy for the party's Birbhum district president to avoid the central agency's summon on Wednesday.

Just when it was perceived that Mandal, who was denied admission by the state-run SSKM Medical College & Hospital on Monday, will have no other option but to face CBI sleuths on Wednesday, a medical report issued by Bolpur Sub-divisional Hospital surfaced, advising complete bed rest for him.

On Tuesday afternoon, the CBI handed over the summon to Mandal at his ancestral residence in Bolpur in Birbhum district for appearance at CBI's Nizam Palace office in Kolkata on Wednesday.

Minutes after that, a team of medical officers from the Bolpur Sub-divisional Hospital reached his residence. After check-up, they advised that Mandal's health condition is such that he needs complete bed rest for the next few days.

Now questions are being raised whether Mandal will skip Wednesday's summon citing the report.

Meanwhile, CBI sleuths have started preparing for questioning Mandal on Wednesday. CBI' Additional Director, Ajay Bhatnagar, is already in Kolkata and is personally overseeing the entire process. The CBI sleuths who are supposed to interrogate Mandal are ready with a set of questions.

Now all eyes are on when Mandal will start from his Bolpur residence, since generally he reaches Kolkata a day in advance if he has scheduled appointments in the city. However, till the report was filed, he has not started from Bolpur.

Meanwhile, CPI(M) central committee member Sujan Chakraborty said that the CBI since the beginning has given enough of long rope to Mandal.

"It is high time that the central agency sleuths drag him and bring him to their office for interrogation," Chakraborty said.
Lucknow, Aug 9 : Self-claimed BJP leader Shrikant Tyagi, who was arrested earlier on Tuesday for assaulting a Noida woman, has got a vehicle pass meant for MLAs on one of his vehicles.

Noida Police Commissioner Alok Singh said Tyagi has an 'MLA' sticker on one of his vehicles and he said that this was given to him by his 'old political colleague' Swami Prasad Maurya.

"We are verifying this information. His driver had painted the Uttar Pradesh government emblem on the car number plate. Probe underway under Gangster Act," Singh said.

BJP sources said that Tyagi was a close friend of Utkrisht Maurya, son of former minister Swami Prasad Maurya.

"A high-level inquiry is going on regarding the gunners provided to Tyagi by Ghaziabad Police," Noida Police Commissioner Alok Singh said.

Maurya, who joined the Samajwadi Party ahead of the Assembly election in the state, was a minister in the Yogi Adityanath cabinet before putting in his papers.

Sources said that Tyagi used his proximity with Maurya to get favours and bully over officials.

Additional director general of Uttar Pradesh Police (law and order) Prashant Kumar had earlier said Tyagi had not received any police protection since February 2020 amid a raging controversy over the issue.

Tyagi has claimed to be the national executive member of the BJP's Kisan Morcha and the national co-coordinator of its Yuva Samiti. However, the ruling party has denied any links with him.

The Opposition has shared purported pictures of Tyagi with senior saffron party leaders.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Nitish Kumar was meticulously planning to break away from the BJP in Bihar for the past three months. At the same time, he did not antagonise the saffron camp and even extended support to its Presidential and Vice Presidential nominees.

The BJP, which was on Tuesday checkmated by Nitish Kumar's JD(U), its oldest ally in the state, didn't even get the time for damage control.

Nitish Kumar now has the support letter signed by all the MLAs of the seven-party 'Mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance), including one Independent member. The plan was to deny the BJP the opportunity to stake counter claims.

Sources said a broad consensus on government formation has been reached, which include retaining Nitish Kumar as the Chief Minister, RJD's Tejashwi Yadav as his deputy, and Speaker from the RJD.

According to sources, the promise of five lakh jobs for the youth is also one of the key points of RJD's reunion with JD(U).

The RJD had mooted the idea of public welfare and its manifesto had promised 10 lakh jobs.

"The first decision will be the announcement of jobs," said an insider, who claimed that there are no differences between the JD(U) and the RJD over power sharing arrangements.

The Congress is likely to get a ministerial berth after a formula was evolved during the discussions, while the Left parties may extend their support from outside.

Late on Tuesday afternoon, Nitish Kumar and Tejashwi Yadav went to the Raj Bhavan to stake claim to form the new government.

The duo was accompanied by JD-U leaders Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh, Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, Shrawan Kumar and others.

Earlier, Nitish Kumar met Governor Phagu Chauhan to submit his resignation and then went straight to the residence of Rabri Devi on 10 Circular Road to meet Tejashwi Yadav and other leaders of the Mahagatbandhan.
Washington, Aug 9 : US President Joe Biden's modified Build Back Better (BBB) initiative is a historic step forward as it makes health care more affordable to the poor, lowering prescription drug prices, and addresses the world's most pressing crisis of greenhouse emissions and how to reduce them to 40 per cent by 2030.

Te climate provisions in the bill that the Senate passed this weekend are likely to be more consequential than anything else in the bill. They will lead to a sharp reduction in US greenhouse gas emissions, experts say, and help address arguably the world's most pressing crisis.

But the other main spending portion of the bill - dealing with health care - is significant in its own right, and it has received much less attention, says David Leonhardt, a columnist, in the New York times in analysis of the historic legislation.

On both the substance of the health care provisions and the politics of them, he said: "The provisions of the bill appear to be the most substantial changes to health policy since the passage of Obamacare in 2010." They are all but certain to become law, too. In the coming days, the House Democrats are expected to pass the same bill that the Senate did, and President Biden has made clear he will quickly sign it, says the NYT.

The bill sets out to reduce Americans' medical costs in two main ways. First, it uses federal subsidies to reduce the cost of both health insurance and prescription drugs. Second, the bill gives Medicare officials the power to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies, which will likely reduce the price that the companies charge for those drugs. Insulin dosage per unit is capped at $35.

For these reasons, the bill is effectively an effort to use the health care system to reduce economic inequality, much as Obamacare was. The bill's benefits will flow overwhelmingly to poor, working-class and middle-class families. Its costs will be borne by increases in corporate taxes (which ultimately fall on shareholders, who skew wealthy) and reductions in the profits of pharmaceutical companies.

Some critics of the bill have argued that these profit reductions will lead pharmaceutical companies to spend less money developing future drugs and, in turn, to fewer promising treatments. And that's a plausible concern, as per NYT as economic incentives matter.

But most experts believe that the pharmaceutical industry will remain plenty profitable even after the changes. The Congressional Budget Office - a nonpartisan body - estimates that the law will reduce the number of new drugs introduced over the next 30 years by about 1 per cent.

As per the bill's main provisions and its benefits: With Medicare officials allowed to negotiate drug costs, it will mostly reduce Medicare's spending, and thus, reduce the federal budget deficit. But there will probably be spillover into out-of-pocket costs, especially for people in Medicare.

The bill sets a $2,000 annual cap on the amount of money that any senior citizen pays for drugs. After the cap is hit, the federal government, private insurers and drug companies combined will pay the remaining bills. Today, drugs for cancer, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and some other diseases can cost people much more than $2,000 a year. The new provision will take effect in 2025 and will save a small percentage of older Americans thousands of dollars a year.

The bill caps out-of-pocket insulin expenses at $35 a month for people in Medicare; many now pay more than $50 a month. The bill also makes adult vaccines free for both seniors and people in Medicaid, starting next year.

For middle- and lower-income people, who buy private health-insurance plans through the Obamacare exchanges, federal subsidies will increase for three years. This change will help about 13 million people.

The political effects of the bill seem however seem less clear, the NYT says, citing political scientist Suzanne Mettler who contends that many forms of modern government remain "submerged" as Americans often do not realize when a federal policy is helping them, because the benefits come through tax credits or other shrouded forms.

Some of the benefits will flow through private insurance plans that people may not associate with a government programme, Cuban ski notes. Other provisions won't take effect for a few years. Still others will spare people from facing a large medical bill, but they may not be aware that they wouldn't have faced such a bill if Congress had not passed a new law.

All of which suggests that the law's proponents will still have work to do after the House passes it and Biden signs it.
Hyderabad, Aug 9 : A girl student was injured in a knife attack by a youth, who had been harassing her in the name of love.

The incident took place in Nalgonda town of Telangana on Tuesday. According to the police, the youth attacked the victim at Forest Park.

The girl, a degree student, was at the park with her friends when the youth took her aside saying he wanted to discuss some matter with her. He then took out a knife and stabbed her indiscriminately.

The victim sustained injuries on her face, hands, stomach and legs. Hearing the cries of the girl, her friends rushed to her rescue and shifted her to a hospital, where her condition is stated to be stable.

The police have launched a hunt for the attacker, who has been identified as Rohit. He is a second year BBA student and had been allegedly harassing the girl to force her into a relationship.

A case has been registered at One Town police station.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Delhi Police has arrested a man for allegedly duping a Gurudwara Granthi (priest) on the pretext of providing him Kirtan opportunity in the United States, an official said on Tuesday. The accused, identified as Sanjay Yadav, was arrested from Indore.

Dy. Commissioner of Police (North Delhi) S.S. Kalsi said a complaint on MHA Cyber Crime Portal from the complainant Baldev Singh (a head Granthi in a Gurudwara in Delhi) was received alleging that he was contacted by a person in name of providing Kirtan opportunity in marriages and other cultural occasions in various cities of United States. Following this offer, the complainant transferred Rs. 1.25 lakh in bank accounts provided by the accused person. Accordingly, based on this complaint, the police registered an FIR under section 420 (cheating) of the Indian Penal Code and began probing the matter.

"Technical analysis of call details and money transaction was made and it was found that accused was operating from various locations in Indore, Madhya Pradesh," the DCP said. Raids were conducted at various locations in Indore after footage of several CCTV cameras from where money was withdrawn was obtained and analysed. During raids, the accused Sanjay Yadav was nabbed.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : It was an issue of two states. While the NDA sought to strengthen itself in Maharashtra with the government led by Shiv Sena rebel Eknath Shinde, with the BJP's support, going in for a cabinet expansion, in Bihar, the Centre's ruling party was ejected from power.

The opposition was demoralised since the Maharashtra developments, where the BJP successfully engineered a coup in the Shiv Sena leading to fall of the three-party MVA government and then Jharkhand was anticipated to be on its radar. However, Nitish Kumar shifted the spotlight to Bihar.

The fall of the MVA regime in Maharashtra impacted the Presidential polls with NDA candidate defeating the opposition nominee while in Vice President election too, the same thing was repeated.

Since 2014 when the BJP came to power, many states like Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh have seen coups where the opposition-led governments were dislodged.

In Bihar, Nitish Kumar is set to become Chief Minister again with the help of the RJD - five years after they parted ways.

After submitting his resignation to Governor Phagu Chauhan, he has also staked claim to form a new government with the help of the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan.

The JD-U has also withdrawn support from the Narendra Modi government at the Centre as well.

Amid hectic political activities in Patna, sources said a broad consensus on the government formation has been built, which includes retaining Nitish Kumar as the Chief Minister, Tejashwi Yadav the Deputy Chief Minister and the Speaker from the RJD.
Panaji, Aug 9 : Election to 186 village panchayats in Goa will be held on Wednesday, with 5,038 candidates in fray representing 1,464 wards.

According to State Election Commissioner, W.V. Ramanamurthy, counting of votes will be taken up on August 12.

While the 186 village panchayats in Goa have a total of 1,528 wards, 64 candidates have already been elected unopposed.

A total of 8,27,099 voters are eligible to cast their votes, including 4,01,725 male voters and 4,25,372 female voters, along with two belonging to the third gender.

The State Election Commission (SEC) has reserved 21 seats (1.37 per cent) for Schedule Castes, 187 seats (12.32 per cent) for Schedule Tribes and 307 (20.10 per cent) for Other Backward Classes.

Along with adequate police force, more than 10,000 polling staff have been deployed for the smooth conduct of the elections. Around 30 out of 1,566 polling booths have been identified as vulnerable and sensitive.
Islamabad, Aug 9 : PTI leader and Imran Khans chief of staff, Shehbaz Gill, has been arrested on sedition charges, media reports said.

Imran Khan has called an emergency meeting of the party over the arrest. Gill's arrest was first reported by PTI's Fawad Chaudhry and Murad Saeed on Twitter, Samaa TV reported.

"Shahbaz Glll has been abducted from Bani Gala Chowk by people who came in vehicles without number plates," Chaudhry said in a tweet.

Bani Gala Chowk is located around one kilometre from Imran Khan's Bangi Gala residence.

Another PTI leader Murad Saeed also reported his arrest and said that the glass windows of his car were broken. He also claimed that an assistant of Gill was beaten up.

A video shared by PTI's official Twitter handle showed broken glass. There was no official word on the 'arrest' of Gill. However, police sources said that Gill has been detained in connection with an FIR registered against him, Samaa TV reported.

He faces sedition charges and has been accused of incitement in connection with a troll campaign against institutions, the sources said. Gill has been moved to an undisclosed location.

A joint investigation team is probing a troll campaign that was launched immediately after a Pakistan Army helicopter crashed in Balochistan's Lasbela district.

Murad Saeed, in his tweets, said that a "horrible plan" had been hatched yesterday (Monday) night.

Saeed did not elaborate on the alleged plan he was referring to. However, Sheikh Rasheed, a close ally of Imran Khan, also spoke about Khan's possible arrest and disqualification.
Dortmund : , Aug 9 (IANS) Reinhard Rauball's long reign as Borussia Dortmund president will end after 23 years overall as he won't be seeking another term.

Dortmund said in a statement on Tuesday that the 75-year-old Rauball will propose his deputy, Reinhold Lonow, for election as his successor.

Rauball presided over the club 1979-1982, 1984-1986, and since 2004 when he helped the club avoid insolvency and turned them into a serious rival for Bayern Munich, winning two their eight national titles and three German Cups in that period.

"We treat Reinhard Rauball's decision with the greatest possible respect. Our president has done outstanding service to BVB," Dortmund CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke said.

"His willingness to make himself available again for the office of president in the most existential crisis of our club in 2004 formed the basis for everything that has happened at BVB since then." Rauball said, "Every minute of my tenure I have been proud to be president of this great club. For 23 years I filled this office with a lot of passion.

"Borussia Dortmund with all the departments and facets of our club has always been a formative part of my life, it still is and always will be."
Washington, Aug 9 : US President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed the historic $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act into law that includes $52 billion to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing.

The CHIPS and Science Act is the Biden administration's bet to incentivise chipmakers to reverse course and build fabs in the US and cut the dependence on China.

"Today, I sign into law the CHIPS and Science Act. It's a once-in-a-generation law that invests in America by supercharging our efforts to make semiconductors here at home," Biden said in a tweet.

"Today represents a more secure economy, jobs, and a stronger future for our nation. America is delivering," he said, adding that the future of the microchip industry is going to be 'Made in America'.

Late last month, the US Senate and the House cleared the $280 billion CHIPS and Science Act to strengthen science and technology innovation in semiconductors, manufacturing and other technologies.

"The American people may not know it, but semiconductors are integral to their everyday experiences. They are microchips that are used in automobiles, consumer electronics, and washing machines," Democrat Representative Frank Pallone Jr had in a statement.

The bill also creates a 25 per cent tax credit for semiconductor manufacturing, earmarks $1.5 billion for technology development for US firms dependent on foreign telecommunications, according to Forbes.

Meanwhile, South Korea is reviewing its possible participation in the US-led semiconductor alliance from the perspective of national interest and has no intent to build an exclusive grouping against China.

Industry Minister Lee Chang-yang made the remarks on Monday, amid concerns that South Korea's possible joining of the "Chip 4" could cause friction with China, its largest trading partner, if it develops into an exclusive grouping against Beijing.

The Chip 4 is an envisioned alliance of semiconductor powerhouses tentatively involving the US, South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan, widely considered a grouping against China and aimed at countering Beijing's influence in global supply chains.
New Delhi, Aug 9 : Nitish Kumar, the powerful JD-U leader, on Tuesday once again parted ways with the BJP-led NDA and resigned as the Chief Minister, joining hands with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) -- throwing a stunner that not only created a stir in Bihar, but also in the country's political arena.

However, this is not the first time Nitish Kumar chose to board the RJD boat by dumping the NDA ship. In a dramatic turn of events in 2015, he had decided to walk along with Lalu Prasad's RJD. But the JD-U veteran, in a surprise move in 2017, walked out the of alliance with RJD, and again forged a partnership with the NDA.

The developments of Tuesday have made many question Nitish Kumar's intent, as to whether he had pre-planned this move after taking oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar for the seventh time in November 2020.

Many have also been left wondering what could have prompted Nitish Kumar to ally with the RJD -- the party which does not enjoy a decent reputation in several areas, the most prominent being law and order. In fact, Nitish Kumar's brand of politics was majorly being driven on the plank of his crusade against RJD's 'Jungle Raj'.

According to political analysts, Nitish Kumar had gotten the drift that he would not be able to run the administration on his terms and conditions, and enjoy a free-hand the moment Sushil Kumar Modi -- considered a trusted lieutenant of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) -- was shown the door and two others -- Tarkishore Prasad and Renu Devi -- were made Deputy Chief Ministers.

Nitish Kumar, apparently, was also not pleased with the BJP over certain issues, including appointing ministers from its quota.

When the Bihar Cabinet was expanded in July 2021, despite Nitish Kumar's repeated requests, only one JD-U leader -- R.C.P. Singh -- was appointed as minister. According to sources, the development made Nitish Kumar upset, and since then the relation between him and Singh -- who recently resigned from the JD-U -- went downslide.

Sources said Nitish Kumar feels that the BJP, by making R.C.P. Singh a minister, not only took away his trusted aide from him, but also tried to deduce his importance. Upset over this, he did not nominate Singh to Rajya Sabha a year later (in 2022). Also, JD-U accused Singh of being involved in corruption, which compelled the former Union minister to resign from the party.

The heated argument that took place in Bihar Assembly in March this year between Nitish Kumar and Speaker Vijay Sinha (appointed from BJP quota) had also raised some points of concern. In fact, Nitish Kumar also accused Sinha of violating Constitutional norms.

The soft buzz in the JD-U hinted towards "BJP's repeated attempts to humiliate Nitish Kumar". In fact, since that episode, Nitish Kumar began maintaining a distance from 'Delhi'.

The JD-U has claimed that the BJP tried to create cracks among the party legislators with the help of R.C.P. Singh.

Nitish Kumar, having witnessed the Jyotiradtiya Scindia episode in Madhya Pradesh and the Eknath Shinde saga in Maharashtra, got alarmed about the "possibilities of a sabotage by the BJP", sources said.

Meanwhile, it also needs to be underlined that the BJP never tried to hurt Nitish Kumar's prospects. Despite the exchange of words between JD-U and BJP leaders that remained confined just within Bihar, the senior leaders of the saffron party, including its President J.P. Nadda and Home Minister Amit Shah, have maintained that Nitish Kumar is the leader of NDA, and they would contest the 2024 Lok Sabha polls and 2025 Assembly elections together.

The alliance, however, witnessed an abrupt end on Tuesday.
Lucknow, Aug 9 : Self-proclaimed BJP leader Shrikant Tyagi, who was arrested on Tuesday for abusing and assaulting a woman at his housing society in Noida, has been sent to 14-day judicial custody.

Tyagi had hurled expletives at the woman resident of Grand Omaxe, who had objected to his planting of trees in the common area of the society. Tyagi had claimed that he was well within his rights to do so.

As videos of the episode went viral on social media, an FIR was lodged and Tyagi was booked under Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code. He went missing after the case was lodged against him.

Tyagi claimed to be the national executive member of the BJP's Kisan Morcha and the national co-coordinator of its Yuva Samiti, even though the ruling party denied any links with him.

Tyagi was finally arrested on Tuesday form Meerut.

During the probe, the police also impounded two vehicles of Tyagi which were found in violation of the Motor Vehicles Act. The cops confiscated an SUV with a BJP flag and a VVIP MLA sticker on the tinted windscreen.

Meanwhile, UP Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Avanish Awasthi has announced Rs 2 lakh reward for the team that arrested Tyagi. DG (Intelligence) D.S. Chauhan has also announced Rs 1 lakh for the police officials.
Guwahati, Aug 9 : Assam has received the approval of the National Medical Commission (NMC) for the ninth medical college in the state. It has been set up in Dhubri.

As per a letter from the NMC, approval has been granted for starting the MBBS course with an intake of 100 students annually from the academic year 2022-23.

A top health official said that the infrastructure facilities of the new medical college, laboratories, library, hostels, hospital and availability of faculty were assessed by the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) and following which the approval was given.

The Board has also reviewed the overall progress of other facilities at this medical college in a virtual hearing before giving its nod.

Executive Director at the Assam National Health Mission, Manoj Choudhury told IANS that many new medical colleges are in the pipeline.

The health department will seek approval for two medical colleges in Kokrajhar and Nalbari later this year. The construction of Nagaon medical college is almost complete and it may get NMC's nod early next year.

He also said the state government has also sanctioned medical colleges in Tinsukia and Bongaigaon districts. Guwahati is set to get a new medical college within the next two years.

The shortage of doctors was always an issue of concern in Assam.

"The situation is changing very fast. We now have 1,200 seats for medical admission including Dhubri," added Choudhury.
Jaipur, Aug 10 : The Ashok Gehlot-led government in Rajasthan has given political appointments to two MLAs, who had joined the Congress from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), apparently to make the other legislators -- who were threatening to rethink regarding their support to the government, stay in the same party.

In September 2019, all six MLAs left the BSP and joined the Congress.

Wajib Ali, an MLA from Bharatpur, has been appointed as the State Food Commission Chairman while Sandeep Yadav, an MLA from Tijara, Alwar, has been named the Bhiwadi Urban Infrastructure Development Board Chairman.

Both the legislators, however, will not receive any salary allowances.

It was mentioned in the appointment orders of Wajib Ali that no salary allowances or monetary benefits will be available on this post.

Nearly three years after the merger with the Congress, all six MLAs have got a share in power.

Sandeep Yadav had expressed displeasure over the reasonable delay in giving due appointments.

Currently, both Yadav and Ali are on tour to Australia.

They had expressed displeasure many times over not getting a post in the state government. Both had recently said that the promises made to them were not fulfilled.

Rajasthan Minister Rajendra Gudha has also expressed displeasure over this delay many times.
Tehran, Aug 10 : Iranian negotiators in the nuclear talks have been ignoring "threats and empty deadlines" by the West in order to protect Iranian people's rights and the long-term interests of the country, an advisor to the Iranian team said.

The Iranian negotiators have pressed hard on the Americans and European governments to back down from their irrational positions, both in the Vienna talks and its contacts with the other negotiating parties, Mohammad Marandi was quoted by the official news agency IRNA as saying, before leaving the Austrian capital where the talks were held on Tuesday.

The Iranian team aimed to gain "key concessions" from the other side, said Marandi, a professor at the University of Tehran.

He declined to make any statement on the text of a possible deal on reviving the 2015 nuclear pact, which was offered by the European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, saying that "careful examination" will be held in Tehran, Xinhua news agency reported.

Iran signed the nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to curb its nuclear programme in return for the removal of sanctions on the country. However, former US President Donald Trump pulled Washington out of the agreement and reimposed unilateral sanctions on Tehran, prompting the latter to drop some of its commitments under the pact.

The talks on reviving the JCPOA began in April 2021 in Vienna but were suspended in March 2022 because of political differences between Tehran and Washington.

The latest round of talks, which began on Thursday following a five-month hiatus, ended on Monday without a breakthrough.
Dar Es Salaam, Aug 10 : Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has wished neighbouring Kenyans peaceful general elections as they went to the polls to vote for their leaders.

"I am praying God be with you (Kenyans) as you fulfill your constitutional right of getting leaders of your choice in a peaceful environment, unity, harmony and solidarity," she said in her official tweet on Tuesday.

"Wishing you all the best." President Hassan was inspecting the Njombe region in the country's southern highlands on Tuesday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Millions of Kenyan citizens on Tuesday cast their ballots at nearly 46,229 polling stations across the country to elect the country's fifth President as well as members of the National Assembly, Senators, and county governors.

William Ruto, Kenya's sitting Deputy President and Presidential candidate under the Kenya Kwanza (Kenya First) Alliance, cast his ballot at 6 a.m on Tuesday at a primary school located in his ancestral Sugoi village in the northwestern county of Uasin Gishu. Soon after casting his ballot, Ruto said he will respect the election outcomes, after months of heated campaigns.

Ruto is running for the presidency with three other candidates, including his closest rival, Raila Odinga, a veteran Opposition leader who is running for the presidency under the Azimio La Umoja (Resolution for Unity) One Kenya Coalition. Odinga also cast his ballot at a polling station in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, later on Tuesday.
Berlin, Aug 10 : Germany's chemical industry has been hit hard by soaring gas prices, according to a survey.

According to the report by the Munich-based ifo Institute for Economic Research published on Tuesday, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has "further exacerbated the tense situation in the industry". Business expectations fell to minus 44.4 points in July, compared to plus 11.8 points in the same month in 2021.

"High energy prices are causing production in Germany to fall, while import pressure is increasing," Wolfgang Grosse Entrup, Managing Director of the country's chemical industry association VCI, told Xinhua on Tuesday.

In Germany, 44 per cent of the energy consumption of the chemical industry is covered by natural gas, while around 30 per cent of all chemical products require its use, Xinhua news agency reported.

Gas prices in Europe are more than twice as high as before the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in late February. European TTF gas futures were trading at around 190 euros ($195) per megawatt hour on Tuesday.

Europe's biggest economy relies heavily on gas supplies from other countries. In 2021, 95 per cent of natural gas fed into Germany's grid was imported, according to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis).

In the past, Russia was one of the main suppliers of natural gas to Germany; in May, natural gas and crude oil worth 1.9 billion euros were still being imported from Russia to Germany.

However, at the end of July, Russia further reduced gas supplies to Germany through the important Nord Stream 1 pipeline, to the current 20 per cent.
Phnom Penh, Aug 10 : Cambodia registered 908,059 air travellers during the first seven months of 2022, up nearly 500 per cent compared to the same period in 2021, a spokesman said in a statement.

Sin Chansereyvutha, Spokesman for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, said that 26 airlines, including six airlines from China, had operated some 12,550 flights to the kingdom's three international airports during the January-July period this year, up 110 per cent from nearly 6,000 flights in the same period in 2021.

He attributed the remarkable rise to the Southeast Asian nation's full opening of borders to all travellers without quarantine since November 2021 after most of the kingdom's population have been vaccinated against the Covid-19, Xinhua news agency reported.

The increase in the number of passengers and flights is a sign showing that the tourism sector is returning to the path of the pre-pandemic growth, Chansereyvutha added.

"We predict that the number of air passengers will reach the pre-pandemic level in late 2023 or early 2024." According to the spokesman, for air freight, the kingdom saw a 4.4 per cent drop in air cargo volume to 34,547 ton during the first seven months of this year.
Vilnius : , Aug 10 (IANS) Belarusian Opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya has presented an alternative team of people prepared to rule the country, in order to replace leader Alexander Lukashenko.

Two years after he returned to power in elections widely considered to have been rigged, Tikhanovskaya presented a United Transitional Cabinet on Tuesday, in Vilnius where she is living in exile.

She appointed the first members of the body that seeks to represent Belarus' national interests, bring about democratic change and restore the rule of law, she said.

The group does not have state powers but operates from exile, she added. Some of those in the group include Opposition lawmakers who were once part of the Belarusian leadership, dpa news agency reported.

Lukashenko triggered unprecedented protests when he proclaimed himself the winner of Belarusian elections on August 9, 2020. The demonstrations were quelled however following a massive clampdown.

Tikhanovskaya, who also claims victory in the election, fled to Lithuania after the poll.
Vienna, Aug 10 : The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) sees no immediate threat to nuclear safety following the shelling of Europe's largest nuclear power plant in Zaporizhzhya, Ukraine.

"Based on the information provided by Ukraine, IAEA experts assessed that there was no immediate threat to nuclear safety as a result of Saturday's incident," IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said on Tuesday.

He added that the Ukrainian authorities had informed the IAEA that there was damage but that radiation measurements were still at normal levels, dpa news agency reported.

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
London, Aug 10 : British Conservative peer and former party leader Lord Hague of Richmond has warned of the "danger of getting desensitised" to Russia's war in Ukraine.

Amid the Tory leadership contest, the former Foreign Secretary described Russia's actions as the "main thing happening and the threat to everybody's security and economic prosperity".

He told Times Radio: "Imagine if there hadn't been a Ukraine war, that if suddenly terrorists had taken over one of the biggest nuclear power plants in Europe and were stacking explosives around it and starting to shell people from it -- that would be the biggest news in the world, it would be what everybody in Europe would be talking about.

"We're getting so used to "oh, there's a war going on over there" that when that happens, the Russians are firing from around that plant, to put explosives and mines there, potentially, a potential nuclear catastrophe, in the view of the International Atomic Energy Agency, it's not such big news any more, is it?" "I mean, it is on the news, but it's not dominating things, so this sort of getting desensitised to the war is a dangerous thing, because it is the main thing happening and the threat to everybody's security and economic prosperity, in the end." Lord Hague cautioned Europe against appeasement, warning that Russian President Vladimir Putin "will come back for more," dpa news agency reported.

He added: "We won't solve anything in our own domestic situation if we lose the will to support a country that is struggling for its own democracy, fighting for its own territory. There's a danger here that some people might think (in) Britain or perhaps more so in Italy, Germany, France, that this problem can be bought off." "Really, the point is it can't be bought off because if you buy it off, Putin will come back for more, and we have learnt through history that this can be a terrible error, appeasing a dictator." "So we do have to -- I'm raising this argument because I think there is a danger of people forgetting the main thing that's happening and the dangers that it presents over the coming months." According to UK Defence Intelligence, Russia's actions have "likely undermined the security and safety" of operations at Europe's largest nuclear power plant.

The Ministry of Defence earlier raised concerns regarding the Zaporizhzhia facility, which was taken over by Russian troops in March shortly after the February 24 invasion of Ukraine. UN Nuclear Chief Rafael Grossi last week said the power plant in the south-eastern Ukrainian city of Enerhodar is "completely out of control".

In a phone call on Tuesday afternoon, Boris Johnson and French President Emmanuel Macron agreed the importance of not allowing "western war fatigue" to disrupt efforts to support Ukraine.

A Downing Street spokesperson said: "On Ukraine, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson and President Macron both stressed the importance of the international community continuing to support the people of Ukraine in their struggle.

"They agreed that UK and French efforts to train and equip Ukrainian troops were making a significant difference in the war, and that western war fatigue cannot be allowed to set in. President Macron praised the Prime Minister's leadership on Ukraine."

Latest updates on Russia-Ukraine War
National General, an Allstate company, is hosting a huge two-day virtual hiring event, Claims National Interview Day, on August 16 and 17, 2022, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, to support the continued growth of National General's business and customer base.

National General, an Allstate company, is hosting a huge two-day virtual hiring event, Claims National Interview Day, on August 16 and 17, 2022, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, to support the continued growth of National General's business and customer base.

The company plans to fill 150 full-time claims-based positions in 20 U.S. cities, including Tampa, FL, Miami, FL, Jacksonville, FL, Albany, NY, Hartford, CT, Philadelphia, PA, Atlanta, GA, Winston-Salem, NC, Charlotte, NC, Cleveland, OH, Columbus, OH, Nashville, TN, Dallas, TX, Chicago, IL, Ontario, CA, Phoenix, AZ, Denver, CO, Charleston, SC, Mobile, AL and Oklahoma City, OK. National General will be hiring for both remote and office-based positions, dependent on experience and proximity to office locations.

All interested applicants are invited to choose a hiring location and a 30-minute time slot for the interview. Click here. Upon signing up, further event details and notifications will be emailed to the registrant. Interviewees should be prepared to walk through their resumes and on-the-spot offers will be made to qualified candidates.

"If you aspire for a new career with a growing company that has advancement opportunities all while being a part of a great team, then the claim adjuster role and National General is perfect for you," says Matt Shirk, Director, Claims - Field Leadership at National General. "We are excited to bring on new team members from this hiring event that have an inquisitive nature and love to help people.

National General, an Allstate company, is a Great Place to Work-Certified company that proudly offers a wide range of employee benefits, including health insurance coverage options, paid holidays and vacation time, retirement plans/401(k) options, career growth opportunities, tuition reimbursement and more.

Click here to learn more about National General's National Interview Day.
AI-Powered Consumer Intelligence Firm, Converseon, today released a new white paper on the importance of measuring stakeholder perceptions of brand ESG efforts through unstructured social and conversational data. The paper, titled Stakeholder Perception of ESG: What You Dont Measure Can Hurt You, describes how and why this measurement approach fills important gaps in ESG reporting including whether stakeholders trust brand sustainability claims in an environment where concerns about wokewashing and greenwashing are increasing. Marketing Charts recent report that almost 1 in 4 adults dont believe brands sustainability claims illustrates this crucial gap.

Part of Converseons ongoing decision intelligence white papers series, this paper examines the ESG stakeholder perception gap, addressing why and how to fill it:



ESG measurements are critical, but provide an incomplete view of stakeholder perceptions, especially over time

Current approaches dont continually measure stakeholder perceptions of brand efforts over time using social and other forms of conversation data

Insights from such data are essential to understanding misalignments, identifying areas of risk and opportunity, benchmarking against competitors and industry captains, and understanding if key audiences believe in your ESG efforts

(Converseons) Social ESG Index has been instrumental in helping us understand perceptions of our ESG efforts to help us improve, prioritize and navigate through these challenging times" - Leading Global Toy Manufacturer

Were doubling down on our ESG tools because weve proven that, in combination with our PRIS Decision Intelligence tools, they can accurately predict business performance and allow brands to invest in the attributes and sub-attributes of their ESG reputation that directly impact the bottom line. - Rob Key, CEO, Converseon

DOWNLOAD THE WHITE PAPER AND LEARN MORE: http://converseon.com/esg

ABOUT CONVERSEON For more than a decade, Converseon has been a leader in NLP powered consumer and social intelligence. During that time, it has gleaned an enviable reputation for innovation and excellence. Today the firm works in partnership with many of the worlds leading brands and data platforms to maximize the value and impact of unstructured conversational data intelligence within organizations through its proprietary applied AI technologies, measurement frameworks, extensive industry experience, and data partnerships. For more information, please contact sales@converseon.com.
Stellar MLS is proud to collaborate with Lundy, Inc. to bring search by voice and enhanced data accessibility to our customers, their prospects, homebuyers, and sellers who are searching for homes in the Stellar MLS coverage area! Now, with Lundy's comprehensive voice-activated property search engine via Amazon's Alexa app, blind and visually impaired individuals will be immersed in the home buying experience.

"This partnership with Stellar MLS signals a remarkable shift in the responsibility MLSs are taking to solve these complex, fair housing and accessibility issues. Stellar is facing these issues head-on without fear, and it is an honor to be a part of the team. With the help of our MLS partners, our technology will revolutionize the ADA accessibility of data while addressing consumer search trends, like accessing information by voice while multi-tasking or driving. As a result, this tool has a much larger application to the general public than our core mission. It is exciting to be a part of such important work," said Justin Lundy, Co-Founder and CEO of Lundy, Inc.

Lundy takes key data on residential listings and delivers listing information in small but informative sentences. On top of that, users can search by property address or set a search by asking Alexa about property characteristics like price range or number of bedrooms.

"Stellar MLS is committed to accessibility, inclusivity, and equal access to data in the Real Estate arena. We will continue to seek out and provide access to products such as voice-activated search to align with our philosophy of inclusivity, commented Merri Jo Cowen, CEO of Stellar MLS.

The partnership between Stellar MLS and Lundy follows Stellars recent efforts to enhance accessibility for their subscribers by updating their various web properties to an AA rating per the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG).

Lundy, Inc. is also partnered with MetroList MLS, Park City MLS, and West Arizona Data Exchange (WARDEX) to provide Finding Homes search by voice to those markets.

About Stellar MLS

Headquartered in Altamonte Springs, FL, Stellar MLS (Stellar) is Florida's largest multiple listing service (MLS) company, with over 70,000 customers in Florida and Puerto Rico. Offering a comprehensive suite of the industrys best products and world-class customer service, Stellar MLS is committed to helping brokers and agents thrive in tomorrows competitive real estate market. Learn more at stellarmls.com.

About Lundy, Inc.

Lundy (http://www.getlundy.io) makes real estate data accessible by syndicating it to voice on the Amazon Alexa platform. The company's natural language processing provides a conversational interface to search for and learn about homes for sale. Lundy's mission is to serve the blind and visually impaired while benefiting millions of consumers who want quick access to real estate prices and facts by voice, at home, or while driving. Co-founders Justin and Jim Grady combine real estate industry experience and technology backgrounds to bring the vision of shopping for homes by voice to life.
The SHSS certification adds advanced training for students in this area of practice.

Touro University Nevada has chosen to add the highly recognized Senior Home Safety Specialist certification to their 2022 OT Doctoral Curriculum. The course provider, Age Safe America, LLC is an American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Approved Provider for continuing education. The College curriculum review committee approved the Senior Home Safety Specialist (SHSS) course for the advanced elective class Adults/Older Adults, with the first offering of the course having just begun. Third year OTD students who choose this area of practice for their capstone experience, can take the training as part of their off-site hours.

Touro University Nevada (TUN) is a private university in Henderson, Nevada. It is part of the Touro College and University System. Touro University Nevada was established to help address critical needs in health care and education, and as a resource for community service in Nevada. Touro Nevada is home to a wide range of degree programs, many of these programs are the first of their kind in Nevada. The Touro University Nevada is the only accredited occupational therapy doctoral degree program in the state. Students learn in a group setting about this dynamic, growing field that solves everyday challenges for patients of all ages.

Occupational Therapists (OTs) have a strong foundation in home modifications, home safety and aging in place. The SHSS certification adds advanced training in this area to allow OTs and OT students to continue to lead in this area of practice. TUNs OT program is the first of its kind to include this training for students, which sets Touro apart from other OT programs. Students who complete the course are awarded the certification after graduation. So far, the students who have taken the SHSS course have given it excellent reviews, stated Linda Frasier, OTD, Associate Professor and Capstone Coordinator at TUN School of Occupational Therapy.

The addition of the Senior Home Safety Specialist certification into the Touro Nevada Occupational Therapy Doctoral Degree program curriculum further demonstrates the importance of home safety for older adults, the growing interest in the aging in place field, and professional acceptance of SHSS designation. This uniquely relevant coursework will benefit students by expanding their knowledge and training in home safety and home evaluation as it pertains to older adults aging in place. They will also be able to add this certification to their resumes when applying for fieldwork/internship positions. Some may want to specialize in this practice area so when OT students move to the doctoral capstone experience, this is another benefit to their training and specialization. The students who choose an aging in place/home modification related doctoral capstone project in their 3rd year can take the course.

The Senior Home Safety Specialist course empowers professionals with actionable ways to better help educate clients, older adults and their family members on the serious issues of home safety, fall prevention, fire safety, home modification, mobility and accessibility issues, considerations for Alzheimers and other dementias. Also, communication skills with seniors and family members, senior safety technology, financial exploitation, crime prevention and personal safety. This comprehensive 5-hour, 17-module self-paced online course offers the only certificate of its kind to individuals within the senior services industry. The course includes a downloadable PDF version of the 240-point home safety assessment tool that is covered extensively within the coursework.

Working with Touro University professors and academic fieldwork coordinators has been a really great experience. It is exciting to know that all these passionate new practitioners will gain important home safety knowledge, a holistic understanding of aging in place principles, and an industry credential, by taking our course as part of the OTD program, said Fritzi Gros-Daillon, Director of Education for Age Safe America, LLC

About Age Safe America, LLC

Age Safe America is a leading brand in the burgeoning aging-in-place industry, respected by thought leaders, healthcare professionals, national associations, governmental agencies, entrepreneurs, non-profits, and Fortune 100 companies. Age Safe America was founded in 2015 to help older adults live safely and independently at home. Age Safe America is led by recognized experts in fall prevention, home safety, aging-in-place, home modification, and marketing to aging boomers. Age Safe America provides training, certifications, consulting, product reviews, and resources to empower professionals, businesses, and consumers. https://agesafeamerica.com/
Je Me Souviens (JMS), a Canada Company educational program created in collaboration with the Royal Montreal Regiment (RMR) Foundation and le Royal 22ieme Regiment (R22eR), today launched Courage in Chaos: The Dieppe Story, a mobile exhibition marking the 80th anniversary of a controversial chapter in Canadian history.

The August 19, 1942 Allied raid on the French port of Dieppe was a strategic failure and human tragedy. Of the 6,000 Allied troops deployed, approximately 5,000 were Canadian. With inadequate air and naval support, 916 Canadians were killed in action and 1,946 were taken prisoner. Although credited for strategic lessons that directly contributed to the success of the D-Day landings two years later, many have questioned the merit of the Dieppe raid because of its alarming 70% casualty rate.

Based on the Quebec Ministere de lEducation et de lEnseignement superieur (MEES) curriculum, Courage in Chaos: The Dieppe Story, is a mobile exhibition intended primarily as a resource for high school teachers and their students.

The exhibition features six 6x8-foot panels that provide geopolitical context and detailed accounts of planning, execution and aftermath of the Dieppe raid. Educators are invited to reserve the exhibition for temporary installation at their schools. An interactive version of Courage in Chaos: The Dieppe Story and a range of turnkey activities will be launched online on August 19th.

The 80th anniversary of the Dieppe raid is an appropriate moment to revisit this tragic defeat, says Colin Robinson, Honorary Colonel, RMR and Founder, JMS. Our mission is to facilitate and enrich the teaching of Canadian history by providing objective and compelling tools to educators at no cost. As we approach the beginning of another school year, we believe that an understanding of history is essential to an enlightened perspective on the present.

Launch Event

Open to the public, a free launch event will be held at the Musee des Fusiliers Mont-Royal on August 24th from 5:00  7:00 pm. The museum is located at 3721 Avenue Henri-Julien, Montreal, H2X 3H4. To register, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/billets-lancement-courage-dans-le-chaos-lhistoire-de-dieppe-385736356827

About Je Me Souviens (JMS)

JMS is a Canada Company education program created in collaboration with the Royal Montreal Regiment (RMR) Foundation and le Royal 22ieme Regiment (R22eR). Providing free teaching materials to supplement the new Quebec history curriculum and to help students have a greater knowledge of Quebecs role in military conflicts throughout the last 100+ years, and ultimately to help them understand the long-term impacts of war upon all facets of our peaceful society. For more information, please visit https://jemesouviens.org/en/

About Canada Company

Canada Company began in May 2006, at the height of the Afghanistan conflict, with a pledge to stand shoulder to shoulder with our troops for the sacrifices they make every day. As champions for our soldiers, Canada Company strives to protect the legacy of our soldiers and leverage their unique skillset and experiences to improve our nation. For more information, please visit https://www.canadacompany.ca/en/

Media Contact:

Mark Lowe, PRagmatic Communications

mark.lowe@pragcom.com / (514) 576-2519
ThriveAP is honored to partner with medical institutions, like Prevea Health, that recognize the pivotal role Advanced Practice Providers play in the successful delivery of care, said Dr. Veronica Hill, DNP, CRNP, VP Programs & Content at ThriveAP.

ThriveAP is proud to announce our latest partnership with Prevea Health. Together, these leading organizations will empower advanced practice providers (APPs) to accelerate their skills in a clinical setting.

ThriveAP is a comprehensive evidence-based solution for APPs that partners with employers and fellowship programs to provide end-to-end education, practical skill development and support for clinicians as they transition to practice. The turnkey, competency-based curriculum of live, virtual courses helps healthcare employers accelerate APP application of clinical skills by translating topics covered in school to real-world practice.

ThriveAP is honored to partner with medical institutions, like Prevea Health, that recognize the pivotal role Advanced Practice Providers play in the successful delivery of care, said Dr. Veronica Hill, DNP, CRNP, VP Programs & Content at ThriveAP. Leading employers acknowledge the need to invest in the development and success of their APPs. As a result, employers are dedicated to supporting the significant role these professionals play by increasing their investments in education programs.

Prevea Health is a multi-specialty health care provider, based in Green Bay, Wis., with 100+ locations across Wisconsin. Prevea Health is dedicated to investing in the development of their APPs, empowering them to deliver the best possible care.

The education and support of our Advanced Practice Providers team is critical to providing our patients the highest quality of care throughout Wisconsin, said Amber Allen, Executive Director of Primary Care, Quality and Innovation at Prevea Health. Providing access to ThriveAP is a way for us to ensure our Advanced Practice Providers have the tools they need to be successful.

About Prevea Health

Founded in Green Bay, Wis. in 1996, Prevea Health is a health care organization that provides high-quality, primary and specialty health care in 80+ locations across Northern, Eastern and Western Wisconsin in clinic and hospital settings. It is partnered with six Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) hospitals across Wisconsin to provide patients a system of highly-coordinated care, close to home: HSHS St. Vincent Hospital and HSHS St. Marys Hospital Medical Center in Green Bay; HSHS St. Nicholas Hospital in Sheboygan; HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital in Oconto Falls; HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire; and HSHS St. Josephs Hospital in Chippewa Falls. For more information, visit http://www.prevea.com.

About ThriveAP

Founded in 2012, ThriveAP is a transition to practice solution for Advanced Practice Providers and their employers throughout the nation. ThriveAPs educational program helps facilitate the growing impact of APPs in the delivery of healthcare and is recognized for its quality, relevance, and convenience. The ThriveAP program blends interactive educational experiences, community, and support to improve provider productivity, proficiency, and confidence through real-world skill development. Learn more, ThriveAP.com
Pizza Ranch offers our customers several different ways to enjoy our food both on and off premises, and Revel Enterprise provides the flexibility necessary to better manage those channels to drive growth, said Jon Moss, senior vice president and chief brand officer, Pizza Ranch.

Revel Systems, the market leading cloud-native point of sale (POS) and complete business management platform, today announced that Pizza Ranch is deploying Revel Enterprise chain wide to drive increased revenue across all of its ordering channels and better manage its hybrid business model. Revel Enterprise, the leading cloud platform for pizzerias, includes multiple enterprise applications that meet the needs of large chains such as a POS, integrated payment processing, kitchen management, delivery and more. With more than 225 franchised locations in fifteen states, Pizza Ranch is the largest, most recognized pizza chain in the Midwest.

Pizza Ranch offers our customers several different ways to enjoy our food both on and off premises, and Revel Enterprise provides the flexibility necessary to better manage those channels to drive growth, said Jon Moss, senior vice president and chief brand officer, Pizza Ranch. Additionally, by moving from our legacy POS to a cloud solution like Revel Enterprise we also dramatically lowered our total cost of ownership while at the same time gaining flexibility for the future.

Pizza Ranch is using Revel Delivery XTthe POS platforms native delivery management solutionto operate its in-house delivery operation and fleet of delivery drivers. This enables Pizza Ranch to retain full profits on every order and control the customer experience from start to finish. Delivery XT offers live tracking for customers without having to use a third party application and provides communications through email and text messaging. The solution also provides analytics and reporting so Pizza Ranch can continually optimize their delivery operations.

All orders Pizza Ranch receives are routed to the Revel kitchen display system (KDS), creating a fully integrated order fulfillment process. The result will be a better customer experience, with orders that are completed quickly and accurately.

Pizza Ranch also elected to use Revel Advantage, Revels in-house payment processing solution that seamlessly integrates with Revel Enterprise to provide a complete POS and payments offering.

Revel Enterprise is a flexible platform that includes unique capabilities to meet the specific needs of pizzerias such as multiple delivery solutions, the ability to manage complex and custom orders, and advanced kitchen management, said Chris Lybeer, chief strategy officer, Revel Systems. We are extremely excited that a large, growing chain like Pizza Ranch chose Revel Enterprise, as it demonstrates we are delivering solutions that meet the needs of prominent national brands.

An open API is a major factor in making it easy for restaurants to customize their platform and service offerings to fit the needs of their business and their guests. Utilizing Revels open API, Pizza Ranch has integrated third-party solutions for loyalty, gift cards, text communications, and third-party delivery aggregation, as well its native e-commerce solution.

Continued Moss, One of the primary reasons we selected Revel was due to its open API, which gives us the flexibility we need to implement a solution that meets our specific business requirements and delivers the memorable experience our guests expect.

Pizza Ranch adds to the extensive list of large restaurant chains selecting Revel Enterprise, including: The Halal Guys, Daves Hot Chicken, Sajj Mediterranean, Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken, FAT Brands, Moes Southwest Grill, Kung Fu Tea, Teriyaki Madness, Focus Brands, Lou Malnatis, Erbert & Gerberts and more.

About Revel Systems

Revels point of sale and business solutions provide a native cloud technology platform that is at the heart of our clients businesses. Revels platform helps restaurants and retailers deliver a better customer experience, diversify revenue streams, and scale their businesses with ease. The Revel Enterprise solution is tailored for large chains and leads the industry with a broad footprint of national, big brand customer implementations. Revel is committed to client success and strives to be a people-first business, leading with integrity and transparency. For more information, please visit http://revelsystems.com or call +1 (833) 437-3835.

About Pizza Ranch

Cultivating its mission To give every guest a legendary experience since its inception in 1981, Pizza Ranch connects with its communities in a way that provides bridges for friends, family and colleagues to come together. Today, Pizza Ranch is based in Orange City, Iowa and owns, operates and franchises more than 210 locations in 14 states. Consistent growth has been a Pizza Ranch staple, as the brand has become a beacon of community involvement and exceptional food. The Pizza Ranch buffet features legendary pizzas, crispy ranch chicken, salads and desserts, and is delivered with an unmatched service quality. For more information about Pizza Ranch, visit PizzaRanch.com.

# # #

Media Contact:

Jason Cigarran

Senior Director, Marketing

Revel Systems

Jason.Cigarran@revelsystems.com
Petrend Events Influencer & Media Pet Product Showcase We are thrilled to host our fall showcase in LA, one of the most pet-friendliest cities in the country. Los Angeles offers hotels, restaurants, off-leash parks, beaches and other venues that allow pet owners to bring along their furry companions; A rare opportunity in most metropolitan areas!"

Petrend Events is pleased to announce that the next influencer and media pet product showcase will be taking place in Los Angeles, California. On October 19th the 2022 Fall Pet Influencer & Media Showcase will be held at the W Hotel - West Beverly Hills from Noon to 6:30PM.

Petrend Events mediagenic showcases are the perfect venue for brands to launch new pet products, expand social media influencer outreach and connect with pet-centric and representatives of the media. Moreover, pet product brands also have the opportunity to reach out to holiday season and guide writers. The event is for qualified media or invitation-only and not open to the general public.

With more than 20 years of experience in the pet industry, Reed aims to curate meaningful events for business owners, social media influencers and media to develop mutually impactful relationships. As a leading national pet trend and lifestyle expert, Reed is mindful that many pet-centric business owners have limited time and resources for media tours. Petrend Events offers a solution in the form of a one-day-only event for brands to pitch influencers and media directly. In addition to founding Petrend Events, Charlotte frequently appears monthly on TV throughout the country and is the Executive Producer and Host of The Pet Buzz, a syndicated pet talk radio show.

"We are thrilled to host our national pet product fall showcase in Los Angeles, one of the most pet-friendliest cities in the country, says Charlotte Reed, founder of Petrend Events. "Known for being one of the most pet-friendly cities in the country, Los Angeles offers myriad hotels, restaurants and venues that allow pet owners to bring along their furry companions. The citys off-leash beaches and parks promote canine health and wellness while simultaneously nurturing their natural instincts to explore, to play and to exercise; a rare opportunity in most metropolitan areas. L. A.s abundant charitable programming for homeless dogs and cats fuel city-wide animal altruism making it the great location to host Petrend Events upcoming showcase, says Reed.

Throughout the day, pet companies and other related brands will have the opportunity to pitch directly to the media. Additionally, attendees will be able to demo the latest pet products in person, collect press kits, enjoy free product samples and receive complimentary gift bags.

For more information about the event, visit http://www.petrendevents.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/petrendevents

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/petrendevents

About Petrend Events

Petrend Events produces national pet product showcases to connect pet product companies with social media influencers, freelancer writers and other media representatives as well as gift guide editors who cover the pet industry. Petrend Events offers a unique venue for brands to pitch their products directly to influencers and media. With approximately 20 years of experience in the pet industry, Petrendologist Charlotte Reed founded Petrend Events Influencer & Media Showcases in 2012. For more information, visit http://www.petrendevents.com.
New Goose Creek Building We are excited to build upon our legacy here and expand our footprint so we can help more people recover justice, dignity, and compensation.

Steinberg Law Firm, LLC recently announced plans to build a new, 11,700 square foot office building situated on well-traveled Goose Creek Boulevard (Highway 52) just down the road from their current office.

The new building will house up to 10 attorneys and 25 staff members, as well as expanded meeting spaces. The firm is focused on assisting injury victims in and around the Goose Creek and Tri-county areas including cases involving car crashes, truck and motorcycle wrecks, fatalities, workers compensation, nursing home neglect, longshore injuries, and construction defects. The new building is designed to meet the needs of clients and families seeking these legal services.

The building signifies Steinberg Law Firms continued commitment to Goose Creek, Berkeley County, and the Lowcountry. Located at the gateway into the City of Goose Creek, the building will showcase an open atrium and modern design. Attorney and partner Michael Jordan said, We are excited to build upon our legacy here and expand our footprint so we can help more people recover justice, dignity, and compensation.

Goose Creek Mayor, Greg Habib, says, The word is out: Goose Creek is a great place to live, work, and play  and because of this we are continuing to attract and keep the best businesses. I appreciate Steinberg Law Firms reinvestment and expansion, and its continued commitment to our city.

Founded by Irving Steinberg, the Steinberg Law Firm has been in the Charleston area since 1927. The firms presence in Goose Creek dates to 1978 when partners Charles Goldberg, David Pearlman, and Hugo Spitz used a small office in the building next to the current office where there is now a pawn shop. Goose Creek residents will remember the office being next to the Goose Creek Gazette. At the time, the building also housed a real estate office representing one of the first and largest developers in Goose Creek. The attorneys were handling the real estate closings for the new housing developments in Goose Creek.

With business booming, the first full-time attorney in Goose Creek, Thomas White, was hired in 1980. Around that time, the law firm purchased the land next door and built the current office to house its growing staff.

Our roots run deep here in Goose Creek and the Lowcountry. When we first started working in Berkeley County, it was very rural. Now the area has grown and therein our law practice has grown, commented firm partner, Thomas White.

LFK Architecture of Mount Pleasant is the architect, and Cornerstone Building, also of Mount Pleasant, is the general contractor. Interior space designer F3 Interior Concepts of Columbia, SC works specifically with law firms and is designing the interior of the new office.

We are thrilled about Steinbergs investment. The proposed new building is beautiful, and their expanded presence here in the City will enhance our built environment as well as allow our citizens expanded access to legal services. We anticipate continued commercial growth in Goose Creek, and Steinbergs commitment is a testament to our ongoing success story,  commented Matt Brady, City of Goose Creek Economic Development Director.

An official groundbreaking is slated for later this year and the firm anticipates the building will be completed in 2024.

Steinberg Law Firm, LLC, has offices in Goose Creek, Summerville, and Charleston. They offer free consultations and no fee unless the client collects compensation in a case. The Firm can be reached at 843-720-2800.
"It is great to have a third-party validate our exceptional employee experience and see that our efforts to be an employer of choice are working," Bhavana Kandari said.

The Romania, United Kingdom and United States offices of Evalueserve, a leading global analytics partner to Fortune 1000 firms, recently earned the 2022 Great Place to Work Certification. This independent recognition, awarded annually, is based on employees responses to an anonymous survey about their experiences.

While Evalueserve is no stranger to Great Place to Work, this marks the first time the company has won the award in Romania and the United Kingdom. The United States 2022 award marked a 3% improvement in overall employee satisfaction compared to the 2021 award.

Creating a great work environment for our people is essential to becoming an employer of choice, a core component of our strategy, said Ravi Mehrotra, Evalueserves CEO. "Earning this award in Romania, the United Kingdom and the United States demonstrates our continued commitment to building a positive culture across all of our locations to ensure our greatest strength  people  feel welcome and empowered to succeed. We will continue to improve our workplaces in all of our global offices to achieve this end.

Bhavana Kandari, Evalueserves global head of human resources, said, I am proud of all three Great Place to Work certifications. It is great to have a third-party validate our exceptional employee experience and see that our efforts to be an employer of choice are working! We continue to make progress towards building a culture of trust, support and growth for our people.

Evalueserves employees remarked on the companys workplace culture, saying:



This is a safe place to work.

You can count on people to cooperate.

People here are treated fairly.

I can be myself here.

Globally, Evalueserve is committed to treating employees fairly, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, social background, or disability status. Evalueserves career development programs and opportunities have provided every employee with the environment to learn, grow and take pride in their work, especially with the recent launch of the Evalueserve Mentoring Program and Evalueserve University, an initiative that offers access to training and career advancement courses.

Looking to grow your career at a company with a proven track record of providing great employee experience? Check out Evalueserves job openings. With offices in countries including Romania, the United Kingdom, the United States, China, Chile, India, Colombia, Germany and Switzerland, Evalueserve is sure to have something for you: https://www.evalueserve.com/jobs.

About Evalueserve

Evalueserve is a global company at the forefront of using product-led solutions to enhance and accelerate decision-making throughout enterprises. More than 30% of the Fortune 1000, including more than 25,000 platform users, rely on Evalueserves unique product-led solutions powered by domain-specific AI and more than 4,500 subject matter experts. Evalueserve is headquartered in Zug, Switzerland. Learn more at evalueserve.com.

Contact Us

For interview requests and any other information, please contact Geoff Livingston at geoff.livingston@evalueserve.com.
We are thrilled to be partnering with the dSilo team to offer our clients cutting edge, AI-generated insights that focus on value creation for the supply chain

Global supply chain and operations implementation consulting firm, SGS Maine Pointe, a member of the SGS Group, announced today that it has partnered with dSilo, a leading enterprise AI company transforming how businesses extract contextual insights from business contracts and financial documents. Using dSilos deep-learning AI contract value management platform, SGS Maine Pointe will be able to build on their proven Total Value Optimization (TVO) approach by helping clients discover and capture value, reduce costs, and retain irreplaceable institutional knowledge otherwise lost to staff turnover.

We are thrilled to be partnering with the dSilo team to offer our clients cutting edge, AI-generated insights that focus on value creation for the supply chain, said Nathanael Powrie, EVP Data Analytics at SGS Maine Pointe. We see a tremendous opportunity to help our clients process, and derive hidden value from, unstructured data received from their end-to-end supply chain.

With the dSilo solution, SGS Maine Pointe will be able to greatly enhance the enterprise contract digital journey by easily accommodating contracts and spend data that often exists in multiple locations and formats including paper, eliminating compliance issues and value leakage, and automating commerce with self-executing smart contracts.

The supply chain, including suppliers, transportation providers, and customer invoices, have very high variability and take a lot of manual data entry for clients to process, said Powrie. With deep learning AI technology, we can contextualize intelligence that provides information that can help our clients achieve new benefits. Just recently, SGS Maine Pointe was able to leverage this potential to process over 350,000 supplier invoices for a client project that provided critical visibility into SKU level information, to help better understand patterns in pricing and volume.

As opposed to traditional contract management processes or older digitization technologies such as OCR, dSilos AI-based process automates the process of converting contractual data to smart contracts and derives key terms and clauses to derive deeper insights. In addition, the AI technology provides actionable benefits, identifies and quantifies risks often associated with contracts, and reduces time required for validation from days to minutes.

Our proprietary deep-learning AI, which requires minimal human intervention, detects value leakage, and may present opportunities such as missed discounts or trade promotional rebates. This could lead to a significant increase in working capital savings across spend categories, said Sharad Malhautra, dSilo CEO and cofounder. Enterprises deploying dSilos AI platform can discover cost reductions and lower compliance risk almost immediately  while future proofing their business by retaining contextual contract knowledge within the enterprise over time.

Contract review and analysis of existing and new contracts to derive deep insights and greater value is a foundational component of SGS Maine Pointes TVO approach. The powerful combination of dSilos AI-based digital contract journey, and SGS Maine Pointes industry and subject matter expertise in maximizing contract value, will provide clients with the potential for actionable, measurable value, a superior contract environment, and greater opportunities to continuously improve their supply chains.

About SGS Maine Pointe

SGS Maine Pointe, a member of the SGS Group, is a global supply chain and operations consulting firm trusted by many chief executives and private equity firms to drive compelling economic returns for their companies. We achieve this by delivering accelerated, sustainable improvements in EBITDA, cash, and growth across their operations, procurement, and logistics. Our hands-on implementation experts work with executives and their teams to rapidly break through functional silos and transform the buy-make-move-fulfill supply chain to deliver the greatest value to customers and investors at the lowest cost and risk to business. We call this Total Value Optimization (TVO).

SGS Maine Pointes engagements are results-driven and deliver between 4:1-8:1 ROI. We are so confident in our work and our processes that we provide a unique 100% guarantee of engagement fees based on annualized savings. http://www.mainepointe.com

About SGS

We are SGS  the worlds leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. Our 96,000 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world. SGS has been delivering ESG and sustainability solutions and services to clients for the past 25 years and has been a carbon neutral company for the past seven years.

About dSilo

dSilos deep-learning AI platform seamlessly automates existing compliance processes and drives performance by transforming enterprise contract management between businesses, suppliers, and customers. Operating at speed and scale with minimum human intervention, it delivers accurate extraction of contract terms, revealing valuable insights, driving automated actions to recover lost contract value, and achieving rapid reductions in cost and compliance risk. For more information, visit http://www.dsilo.ai.
"We believe the launch of this index on the Aspida annuity platform is an important representation of Franklin Templetons commitment to this growing space within retirement savings," said Doug Sue, Vice President and Senior Client Portfolio Manager at Franklin Templeton Investment Solutions.

WealthVest, a financial services marketing and wholesaling firm, in conjunction with Aspida Life Insurance Company (Aspida), a life insurance and annuity company, has partnered with Franklin Templeton to offer two new crediting strategies on an exclusive index within Aspidas WealthLock Accumulator Fixed Index Annuity  developed jointly with WealthVest.

The WealthLock Accumulator FIA, distributed solely by WealthVests nationwide wholesaling team, allows consumers to access 1- and 2-year point-to-point participation and point-to-point cap rate strategies through the Franklin Factors US Index. The index also offers a unique 5-year High Watermark participation strategy that gives consumers the opportunity to lock in the highest quarterly index value through the strategys QuarterLock feature.

We are excited to partner with Aspida and WealthVest on introducing the Franklin Factors US Index, said Doug Sue, Vice President and Senior Client Portfolio Manager at Franklin Templeton Investment Solutions. This index is designed to deliver consistent returns through its use of factor investing and focus on quality, value and momentum. This factor-based approach can allow the index to take advantage of market conditions and maintain an attractive risk/return profile. We believe the launch of this index on the Aspida annuity platform is an important representation of Franklin Templetons commitment to this growing space within retirement savings.

Using a daily rules-based allocation, the Franklin Factors US Index seeks to strategically take advantage of market conditions and maintain a 5% volatility target. The index is designed to provide consistent returns through its use of factor investing and a focus on quality, value and momentum.

The fixed index annuity is now available in more than 35 states and features 7- and 10-year products, penalty-free withdrawals, a nursing home endorsement, a terminal illness waiver, and a bailout rate feature.

For more information on WealthLock Accumulator, rates or the equity indices, contact the WealthVest sales desk at 1-866-221-2615 or visit http://www.aspida.com/wealthlock-accumulator.

###

About Aspida

Aspida Holdings Ltd., through its subsidiaries (collectively Aspida), is focused on providing retirement and reinsurance solutions, having operations in the U.S. and Bermuda with total assets of $3.5 billion as of Dec. 31, 2021. Aspida, through its U.S. platform  Aspida Life Insurance Company  is focused on leveraging technology and agility to help clients achieve  and protect  their dreams. Its Bermuda-based reinsurance platform, Aspida Life Re, is focused on providing efficient and secure life and annuity reinsurance solutions. Aspida seeks to be a trusted partner in its clients financial security while driving its growth by doing good for the communities it serves. Aspida is an indirect subsidiary of Ares Management Corporation. For more information, please visit: http://www.aspida.com.

About WealthVest

WealthVest is one of the leading distributors of fixed, fixed index, registered index-linked and variable annuitiesas well as structured products to U.S. financial advisors. WealthVests leadership is fueled by proprietary thought-leadership, consumer-driven product design expertise, strategic marketing, technology, and specialization in both field and hybrid-based advisor wholesaling. Follow them on Facebook and LinkedIn or visit wealthvest.com.

About Franklin Templeton

Franklin Resources, Inc. [NYSE:BEN] is a global investment management organization with subsidiaries operating as Franklin Templeton and serving clients in over 150 countries. Franklin Templetons mission is to help clients achieve better outcomes through investment management expertise, wealth management and technology solutions. Through its specialist investment managers, the company offers boutique specialization on a global scale, bringing extensive capabilities in equity, fixed income, multi-asset solutions and alternatives. With offices in more than 30 countries and approximately 1,300 investment professionals, the California-based company has over 75 years of investment experience and approximately $1.3 trillion in assets under management as of June 30, 202. For more information, please visit franklintempleton.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.
Intuition Robotics, the company empowering older adults to live more engaged lives at home, today announced that The Honorable Lance Robertson, former US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Assistant Secretary for Aging, has joined its advisory board. Mr. Robertson brings an immense amount of relevant expertise to Intuition Robotics and will help the company form more partnerships with the aging network across the U.S.

Intuition Robotics is the company behind ElliQ, the worlds first-ever empathetic AI care companion robot that accompanies older adults on their journey to age independently while motivating them to live happier, healthier lives. ElliQ became available to the public in March 2022 and recently announced a partnership with the New York State Office for the Aging to bring ElliQ to seniors in New York state.

Were thrilled to welcome Mr. Robertson to our advisory board, said Dor Skuler, CEO & Co-Founder of Intuition Robotics. His expertise in health and aging and his unwavering commitment to the aging community make him a perfect addition to our team and will help us achieve our goal of assisting more seniors across the U.S. live happier, healthier, and more independent lives at home. We look forward to Mr. Robertsons guidance on how to partner effectively with federal, state and local governments to deliver on our mission and improve the lives of older adults.

As US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Assistant Secretary for Aging, Mr. Robertson was the US government's most senior official for the aging, responsible for managing the Agencys nationwide team, programs, and research institute, as well as supporting older adults and people with disabilities to live and work independently. He also served as the nations gerontologist and lead for aging and disability issues, spearheading initiatives that connect health and human services with social determinants. He has worked extensively on home- and community-based services and long-term care with a focus on aging and disability. Previously, Mr. Robertson was the State Director, Aging Services at the Oklahoma Department of Human Services. His experience is rooted in supporting the nations most vulnerable populations, which aligns with Intuition Robotics mission to empower older adults to age independently.

Im humbled to join the advisory board of a company that I truly believe in, said Lance Robertson. Intuition Robotics has proven its commitment to older adults and I have been impressed by the innovative steps its taken to support this community. I couldnt think of a better company to share my experience with and I am optimistic about what the future holds for them.

About Intuition Robotics

Intuition Robotics is on a mission to empower older adults to live happier, healthier and more independent lives at home. The companys award-winning product, ElliQ, is a proactive care companion for older adults. ElliQ, helps keep users healthy, engaged, and informed, while alleviating the effects of loneliness and social isolation. Intuition Robotics has won several awards for its work with ElliQ including Fast Companys Most Innovative Companies and the CES Best of Innovation award. The company was founded in 2016 and is based in Tel Aviv with offices in San Francisco and Athens. Intuition Robotics investors include: Toyota Ventures, Samsung NEXT, iRobot, OurCrowd, Terra Ventures and Venture Capital firms from California, Israel, Japan, and Asia. To learn more, please visit intuitionrobotics.com.
(This material is distributed by MediaLinks TV, LLC on behalf of CCTV. Additional information is available at the U.S. Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.)

CGTN America releases Response to Pelosis Provocation over Taiwan

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has conducted joint operation drills in the Taiwan Strait in response to U.S. politician Nancy Pelosi's highly provocative trip to Taiwan.

On August 2, Pelosi sneaked into Taiwan, becoming the first Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives to visit the island in 25 years. Her trip has drawn swift criticism around the world for her reckless, high-profile, and unnecessary provocation at a time when relations between China and the U.S. are at an all-time low. Even U.S. President Joe Biden was reported as saying the Pentagon didnt think it was a great idea.

CGTN has produced a series of in-depth programs. In a special World Insight program, experts explained why the military drills are so critical. They said the Chinese PLAs actions are a warning to the U.S. and demonstrate the PLAs determination and capability to protect the country's interests and uphold China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

On another major talk show, The Point dissected Pelosis motivations. With the U.S. in the throes of major political and social turmoil, why did Pelosi ignore problems at home to manufacture a crisis abroad? The show took a deep dive into the political life of Nancy Pelosi, called by many a vain, opportunistic politician.

When the world needs increasing cooperation between the worlds two largest economies to handle a persistent pandemic, supply chain shocks and a climate crisis, how did Pelosis visit hurt those efforts? Did her visit have any legal standing? Why is the U.S. ignoring the historical facts of the Taiwan question? And how have the three joint communiques laid the legal foundation for diplomacy between the two countries? Those are some of the key questions we answered on "The Past and Present of the Taiwan Question."

Click here to watch the full shows:

PLA Military Drills as an Appropriate Response

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDkjierv8IQ

Nancy Pelosi: the Sneaky Opportunist

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2022-08-05/The-Point-Special-Edition-Nancy-Pelosi-the-Sneaky-Opportunist-1cfjaU5BEly/index.html

The Past and Present of the Taiwan Question

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2022-08-07/The-Past-and-Present-of-the-Taiwan-Question-1ciF6JTt8VG/index.html
alliantgroups investment on this front is one of the reasons I was drawn to the firm. Im especially moved by alliantgroups commitment to boosting the underrepresentation of diverse students who might not otherwise see themselves following a career in STEM, said Eric Hylton.

alliantgroup is proud to announce the 2022 winners of its annual STEM scholarship program. The scholarship program was created as a part of alliantgroups mission to promote STEM education and the next-generation workforce. Since technology is a part of the very fabric of our everyday lives, developing a strong STEM skillset is vital for students, innovators and professionals. This creates engaged learners who become innovative problem solvers while expanding awareness of career opportunities and success in the ever-emerging tech economy.

Since 2017, alliantgroup has awarded more than 1.5 million dollars in STEM scholarships. Each year, the program receives hundreds of applications from high school seniors who excel in their chosen STEM fields.

alliantgroups 2022 STEM Scholarship winners include the following students:



Grace Le  Westchester Academy for International Studies, will attend Trinity University

Chandler Jones  Lamar High School, will attend Princeton University

Archer Calder  Cypresswood High School, will attend University of Texas at Dallas

Alexandria Dorsey  Hightower High School, will attend University of Houston

Tyler James- Pearland High School, will attend Texas A&M University

Zane Johnson  iSchool High at The Woodlands, will attend University of Texas at Austin

Emmanuela Aminayanate Amachree  Kerr High School, will attend University of Houston

Scholarship winners were presented with their checks at a luncheon hosted at alliantgroups Houston office. Presenters included the following:



Dr. Robert Ambrose  alliantgroups Chairman of Robotics & AI; Chair in Mechanical Engineering at Texas A&M University; former Chief of Software, Robotics and Simulation Division at NASA

Rick White  alliantgroups Strategic Advisory Board; former U.S. Congressman and former CEO of TechNet

Eric Hylton  alliantgroups National Director for Compliance; former IRS Commissioner of the Small Business and Self-Employed Division

Steven Miller  alliantgroups National Director of Tax; former IRS Acting Commissioner

Dave Tilstone  alliantgroups Strategic Advisory Board; Business Development Officer at iT SpeeX; former President of the National Tooling & Machining Association

Deirdre Ricketts  alliantgroup Director of STEAM Education; 2019 alliantgroup Houston ISD Elementary Science Teacher Award Winner

Daniel Newmyer  Space Center Houstons Vice President of Education

"I am passionate about investing in STEM skills and was thrilled to be a part of this program this year. Its so important to open up the world of engaged learning and innovation to as many students as possible  no matter their background. Its clear that a STEM skillset creates more opportunities for individuals while benefitting our nations economic future, said Dr. Ambrose.

"As a long-time educator now working with Space Center Houston, Ive had the opportunity to see that spark light in young minds. I love the investment that alliantgroups STEM Scholarship program continues to make in our community and congratulate this years winners. I cannot wait to see these students future successes, said Daniel Newmyer.

alliantgroups investment on this front is one of the reasons I was drawn to the firm. Im especially moved by alliantgroups commitment to boosting the underrepresentation of diverse students who might not otherwise see themselves following a career in STEM, said Eric Hylton.

We work with thousands of small businesses across the U.S. and every day I hear from executives about their challenges in finding and retaining technical talent. Creating this program to incentivize STEM learning and inspire our youth to join the technology fueled workforce of the 21st century is absolutely necessary for the United States to stay competitive globally. And, its something that I am personally very passionate about, said Dhaval Jadav, CEO of alliantgroup.

alliantgroup is the nations premier consulting and management engineering firm with a mission to strengthen American businesses through reinvestment in innovation and job growth. We educate businesses, the industry groups that serve them and the accounting firms that advise them on federal and state credits and incentives that are legislated by our government to keep the U.S. competitive in the global landscape. alliantgroup is headquartered in Houston, Texas with additional offices located in Austin, Boston, Chicago, Indianapolis, New York, Irvine, Sacramento, Washington, D.C.; and Bristol and London in the U.K. https://www.alliantgroup.com/
Amentum, a premier global government and private-sector partner supporting the most critical missions of government and commercial organizations worldwide, was awarded Best Maximo Asset Data Governance Program at the 2022 MaximoWorld Conference in Austin, TX, today for their work with Interloc Solutions, Inc. (Interloc) in optimizing data and decision making through a progressive and reliability centered data governance strategy. MaximoWorld, hosted by ReliabilityWeb.com, for over 20 years, has been the largest cross-industry gathering for Maximo users, partners, and subject matter experts.

Through an IBM Maximo Asset Management data governance strategy, elevated and enabled by Interloc's Mobility first philosophy to EAM, Amentum fosters excellent data quality, asset knowledge, and decision-making for its clients its clients around the world. By employing a program that enhances data quality through real-time visibility, and improved inspections and data readings, Amentum increases its asset knowledge, and predictive maintenance capabilities and analysis, giving its clients a proactive edge. Amentums award-winning approach decreases mean time to repair (MTTR) and increases mean time between failures (MTBF) for its clients' key assets by taking advantage of the quality Maximo data gained via Mobile Informer and analyzing it through a robust data analytics platform.

Amentums emphasis on mobility has also resulted in significant gains for its clients sustainability initiatives. Mobile Informers ability to eliminate reliance on paper-based procedures and immensely improve data collection and quality led to one client in particular saving tens of thousands of dollars in annual paper, toner, and labor costs, as well as a near 20,000 lbs reduction in annual C02 emissions.

Data drives decision-making, and thanks to the powerful capabilities of and an innovative and progressive approach to Maximo, Amentum is making the best possible decisions based on the highest quality data for its clients around the world.

About Amentum

Headquartered in Germantown, Md., Amentum is a premier global services partner supporting critical programs of national significance across defense, security, intelligence, energy, commercial and environmental sectors. Amentum employs approximately 57,000 people on all seven continents and draws from a century-old heritage of operational excellence, mission focus, and successful execution. Amentum's reliability-centered and data-driven approach to asset management has proven successful at critical industrial and manufacturing facilities across various industries and facilities, such as pharmaceutical, life sciences, heavy industrial manufacturing, chemical refinement, aviation, automotive production, data centers, consumer production, industrial production, and more.

Learn more about Amentum at https://www.amentum.com/ .

About Interloc Solutions

Since 2005, Interloc Solutions, an IBM Gold Business Partner and the largest independent IBM Maximo Enterprise Asset Management systems integrator in North America, has been helping clients and partners realize the greatest potential from their Maximo investment, providing application hosting, innovative consulting, and managed services. Interloc has enhanced the implementation and adoption of Maximo through its transformative Mobile Informer solution, which is currently in use across a wide range of disciplines and industries including U.S. Federal Agencies, Utilities, Transportation, Airport Operations, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and the Oil and Gas.

As a consulting organization of highly qualified technology and maintenance professionals, experienced in all versions of Maximo, Interloc excels in delivering comprehensive, best-practice Maximo EAM consulting services and mobile solutions.

Learn more about Interlocs award-winning services and solutions at http://www.interlocsolutions.com .
The Face of Deception: a gripping spiritual clarion call to arms for modern society. The Face of Deception is the creation of published author Brother Thomas Boston.

Brother Boston shares, As a first-time writer, I found it difficult to put into words what I believed was the Lord knocking on the door of a receptive believer, servant, and witness.

The inspiration for this book came when I prayed to the Lord. He answered, and the Holy Spirit did what only the Holy Spirit can and will do.

Unlike most people, I was abandoned as a child and never did well in school. However, at a young age, I found the Lord, or should I say, he found me. I questioned what could he have done to be nailed to a cross and to manifest into flesh from the Spirit through sheer pure will, purpose, and authority. Every day, we encounter deception of the enemy or Satan.

In this writing, I hope to show the lost that Reject, Deny, and Dismiss the signs of the times. Think of the Bible (Basic instructions before leaving earth). It is here I present the issues of God in a way that is reasonable enough for anyone to conclude that there is more than anyone can or ever will believe. Think of Proverbs 23:7, Matthew 6:33, and Luke 18:17 2nd Chronicles 7:14.

I do not stand as a formally educated academic or a noteworthy scholar or pastor with experience and at least a degree in Divinity and Theology is usually, the only one who can write at this level. However, I disagree and say they havent referenced Romans 2:11, 12:2 enough.

The events we are currently witnessing, and experiencing are clearly the wrath of God. I believe that nothing short of an open collective prayer initiative is the only thing that may save our nation. For those of us who still believe, we as a Nation are of the people, by the people, and for the people when you see these things, know that they are a sign that the end of time is at hand. Luke 21:31 Matthew 24:33

We are the Body Called by His Name therefore let US do all things in service of and to the Father with diligence and expeditious motivation and intent. As we recite the Lords Prayer daily now his will should manifest servants that emulate it in every way possible.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Brother Thomas Bostons new book will challenge readers to take a hard look at their spiritual well-being.

Brother Boston offers a passionate plea to readers in hopes of helping shed light on significant dangers in the modern world.

Consumers can purchaseThe Face of Deception at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about The Face of Deception, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.


Chugach Government Solutions, LLC (Chugach) was awarded Best New Implementation at the 2022 MaximoWorld Conference in Austin, TX, today for their work with Interloc Solutions, Inc. (Interloc) in moving the Chugach Asset Management Program (ChAMP) toward reliability centered maintenance. MaximoWorld, hosted by ReliabilityWeb.com, for over 20 years, has been the largest cross-industry gathering for Maximo users, partners, and subject matter experts.

Chugach teamed with Interloc Solutions to implement Interlocs proven Mobile Informer over Maximo solution as the EAMS program of record for the Chugach Enterprise Management System (CEMS) the key technology enabling and supporting ChAMP. Designed in alignment with the International Standard Organization (ISO) 550001 model for lifecycle asset management, ChAMP is a holistic approach to asset management that combines business processes, codes, data conventions, and best practices to standardize, improve and automate Chugachs work processes.

The implementation of Maximo of CEMS has delivered Chugach a comprehensive solution that enables tracking and improving the performance of business processes and supports standardizing the asset management body of knowledge across the entire organization. Supplementing Maximo with Mobile Informer has enhanced that effect, increasing workforce productivity and improving data accuracy, asset visibility, and work order quality control. Chugachs has seen immense improvements in Inventory count accuracy specifically, resulting in a decrease in surplus, obsolete, or deficit inventory management.

With its current implementation of Maximo as CEMS and ChAMP, Chugach and its clients are seeing the real benefits and possibilities of the industry leader in asset management.

About Chugach Government Solutions

Chugach Government Solutions is a community-owned Alaskan Native Corporation (ANC) whose family of companies provides services to federal clients and customers worldwide under a diverse portfolio, including facilities services, IT and Technical Services, Education and Training, and Construction. Chugach is committed to profitability, the celebration of indigenous Alaskan heritage, and the ownership and protection of Alaskan native lands.

Learn more about Chugach Government Services at https://www.chugachgov.com/ .

About Interloc Solutions

Since 2005, Interloc Solutions, an IBM Gold Business Partner and the largest independent IBM Maximo Enterprise Asset Management systems integrator in North America, has been helping clients and partners realize the greatest potential from their Maximo investment, providing application hosting, innovative consulting, and managed services. Interloc has enhanced the implementation and adoption of Maximo through its transformative Mobile Informer solution, which is currently in use across a wide range of disciplines and industries including U.S. Federal Agencies, Utilities, Transportation, Airport Operations, Manufacturing, Healthcare, and the Oil and Gas.

As a consulting organization of highly qualified technology and maintenance professionals, experienced in all versions of Maximo, Interloc excels in delivering comprehensive, best-practice Maximo EAM consulting services and mobile solutions.

Learn more about Interlocs award-winning services and solutions at http://www.interlocsolutions.com .


Clinton County joins the MITN Purchasing Group by Bidnet Direct Clinton County invites all potential vendors to register online.

Clinton County announced today that it has joined the MITN Purchasing Group, a regional purchasing group that helps local governments post, distribute and manage RFPs, quotes, addendums and awards online. Bidnet Directs MITN Purchasing Group provides notification to registered vendors of new relevant solicitations, any addenda and award information from over 270 participating agencies from across Michigan. All potential Clinton County vendors are encouraged to register online with http://www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn/clinton-county to access upcoming solicitations.

Clinton County joined the purchasing group in August 2022. In joining, Clinton County has become the 272nd participating local government agency utilizing the system to streamline the purchasing process. The MITN Purchasing Group is a single, online location for managing sourcing information and activities and provides local Michigan government agencies a method to minimize costs and time delays associated with the procurement process. Clinton County was distributing bids and managing the procurement process manually before joining the system. In joining, Clinton County looks to save time, increase competition and achieve cost savings over the traditional paper-based bid process.

Clinton County now has access to an extensive vendor pool, thereby enhancing competition without increasing distribution costs. In addition to the existing vendors on the MITN Purchasing Group, all vendors looking to respond to bids with local government agencies can register online: http://www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn/clinton-county. Clinton County invites all current vendors not already registered on the purchasing group to do so today. Vendor registration is easy and takes only a few minutes online. Registered vendors can access bids, related documents, addendum and award information. In addition, the MITN Purchasing Group offers a value-added service to notify vendors of new bids targeted to their industry, all addenda associated with those bids and advance notice of term contract expiration. A robust NIGP code category list allows vendors registering to find the correct codes and receive matched bids.

By using the MITN Purchasing Group, our valued vendors can now access not only our open bids, but those from other municipalities, counties and school districts throughout the state. In addition to the time savings we anticipate, our vendors will also benefit from registering in one location for all local bid opportunities.

Vendors may register on the MITN Purchasing Group: http://www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn. Bidnet Directs vendor support team is available to answer any questions regarding the registration process or the bid system at 800-835-4603 option 2.

Other local Michigan government agencies looking to switch from a manual bid process, please contact the MITN Purchasing Group for a demonstration of the no-cost sourcing solution.

About Clinton County:

Clinton County is a county in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 Census, the population was 79,128. The county seat is St. Johns. The county was created in 1831 and organized in 1839. It is named after early American politician DeWitt Clinton. Clinton County is included in the Lansing-East Lansing, MI Metropolitan Statistical Area.

About Bidnet Direct:

Bidnet Direct, powered by mdf commerce, is a sourcing solution of regional purchasing groups available at no cost to local government agencies throughout the country. Bidnet Direct runs regional purchasing groups, including the MITN Purchasing Group, across all 50 states that are used by over 1,600 local governments. To learn more and have your government agency gain better transparency and efficiency in purchasing, please visit https://www.bidnetdirect.com/buyers
Cybereason, the XDR company, today announced it has been named to the exclusive Forbes 2022 Cloud 100, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures.

Joining other top private companies on the Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 further validates what sets Cybereason apart from our competitors, empowering Defenders to understand in real-time. Cybereason delivers the full scope of a cyberattack through our AI-driven MalOp (malicious operation) detection engine so Defenders can take immediate action to remediate threats. Outthinking and outpacing nation-state sponsored and cybercriminals actors is what enables Cybereason to continue empowering Defenders at both public and private sector organizations, said Lior Div, Cybereasons CEO and Co-founder.

Additional highlights of the exponential growth Cybereason has experienced in recent months include:

--Being named to CNBCs 10th Annual Disruptor 50 list of the most innovative privately held global companies. This was the second consecutive year Cybereason was named a Disruptor. More than 1600 nominations were accepted.

--CEO and Co-founder Lior Div was named an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2022 New England Award winner.

--Achieving the best results in the history of the MITRE Engenuity ATT&CK Evaluations for Enterprise, scoring 100% in Prevention, 100% in Visibility and 100% in Real-Time Protection.

--The release of the groundbreaking research Operation CuckooBees that detailed the full playbook of a massive Chinese-sponsored intellectual property theft operation that had remained undetected since at least 2019.

--Launching the Cyber Defenders Council, a group of preeminent CISOs and security leaders from public and private sector organizations across North America, EMEA and APAC, including the CISOs from The Kraft Heinz Company, TikTok, GE Healthcare, Colgate-Palmolive Company and many more.

The companies of the Cloud 100 list represent the best and brightest private companies in this fast-growing sector, said Alex Konrad, senior editor at Forbes. Every year, it gets more difficult to make this list  meaning even more elite company for those who do. Congratulations to each of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees.

For the seventh straight year, the Cloud 100 reviews submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies each year. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people & culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help of a judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers.

About Cybereason

Cybereason is the XDR company, partnering with Defenders to end attacks at the endpoint, in the cloud and across the entire enterprise ecosystem. Only the AI-driven Cybereason Defense Platform provides planetary-scale data ingestion, operation-centric MalOp detection, and predictive response that is undefeated against modern ransomware and advanced attack techniques. Cybereason is a privately held international company headquartered in Boston with customers in more than 40 countries.

Learn more: https://www.cybereason.com/

Follow us: Blog | Twitter | Facebook

Media contact:

Bill Keeler

Senior Director, Global Public Relations

Cybereason

bill.keeler@cybereason.com

+1 (929) 259-3261


Tales From the So-Called Life: a fascinating and inspiring memoir. Tales From the So-Called Life is the creation of published author Cynthia Okebata.

Okebata shares, When the truth is all you have, you must show it to the world. Cynthia Okebata must prove her truth when she learns that her husband, a former U.S. military man, is killed in Nigeria, his hometown. She, a widow and a mother, has to show a lot of courage, armed with the truth, to face the traps developed by those who fabricated a false accusation. They are no longer on Nigerian soil where such accusations are commonplace, and Cynthia finds herself a brave woman who fights not only for her reputation but also to maintain custody of her children. How does she do it? She realizes her experience can inspire voiceless victims who may be going through the same situation in silence. She courageously addresses and reports the cultural practices that victimize women. Cynthia has left a legacy for her children and generations to come.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Cynthia Okebatas new book will shock and empower others facing similar mistreatment.

Okebatas fighting spirit and determination to survive is on display within the pages of this compelling autobiography.

Consumers can purchase Tales From the So-Called Life at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about Tales From the So-Called Life, contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.
We are committed to giving clinicians and physicians a mobile-first way to improve the way they deliver care with a solution that clearly demonstrates a commitment to health equity while also removing one more frustrating, costly and burnout-inducing burden providers confront daily.

DeliverHealth, a global provider of technology-enabled solutions for hospitals, health systems and group practices, announced the official unveiling of its Language Access workflow tool, designed to improve existing connections between physicians and limited English proficient (LEP) patients, enhance compliance and reimbursement, and boost both provider and patient satisfaction.

To help guide this launch and future product enhancements, DeliverHealth has entered a joint research initiative with the University of Miamis Miller School of Medicine, The Media and Innovation Lab, to further explore the role that novel technology has in creating more optimal health outcomes among LEP populations.

You cannot disconnect quality care from the way you communicate with your patients  especially those who have limited ability in reading, writing, speaking and understanding English, said Michael Clark, CEO of DeliverHealth. We are committed to giving clinicians and physicians a mobile-first way to improve the way they deliver care with a solution that clearly demonstrates a commitment to health equity while also removing one more frustrating, costly and burnout-inducing burden providers confront daily.

Research shows that LEP patients face numerous disparities when receiving healthcare, including more frequent and longer emergency department and hospital visits, higher hospital readmission rates, and a greater likelihood of experiencing adverse events that cause physical harm. Additionally, LEP patients are less likely to receive preventative screenings, seek primary care services, or follow up with physician recommendations. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated disparities in communication, resulting in a disproportionately large percentage of COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths among LEP individuals.

We believe that, with the right focus, technology and innovation can reduce and eliminate disparities in healthcare access, delivery, and quality that plague underserved and marginalized communities, explains Dr. Azizi Seixas, Founding Director of the Media and Innovation Laboratory. By quantifying the impact of clinician/patient communication as a foundational component of optimized patient care, we have the potential to fundamentally alter care practices to benefit the communities in need.

Physicians and care teams can use Language Access with their existing interpretation services on their mobile devices and/or expand access to third-party services, making both more accessible. Interpreters can be added in 250 languages, either across the globe or from within specific communities in which their LEP patients live.

Language Access, one of the newest mobile capabilities introduced within the DeliverHealth Platform, integrates within the electronic health record (EHR) to give clinicians, physicians and care teams the language interpreter tool they need to improve care and outcomes for the countrys more than 25 million U.S. LEP patients. An ever-growing challenge, the number of limited English proficient persons will increase by 67 million by 2050 to an estimated 19% of U.S. residents, studies show.

Language Access not only improves the quality of care for patients, but also helps providers by:



Reducing time spent finding interpreters by accessing multiple certified vendors and in-house staff with just one tap of a button.

Providing reporting that can simplify reimbursement, proving that interpretation services were used appropriately.

Capturing and ensuring timely, accurate reimbursement by tracking language services and session time, which is required for code selection.

Creating a unified workflow for in-house and outsourced interpreters improving utilization of bilingual staff, and bringing the least costly, most efficient and effective third-party services to the forefront.

Allowing physicians to stay in the same workflow that is currently being used for documentation and scribing, which leads to time and cost savings and a more frictionless, less stressful encounter.

Tracking rich metadata such as call duration, completion status, and interpreter utilization to drive improvements wherever reimbursement is not available.

Additionally, because a patients information, including the file of the provider interaction, is stored within an organization's EHR, administrators will soon have the ability to access the audio files, review for quality, and leverage data to improve the care experience.

The DeliverHealth Platform, with its mobile-focused capabilities, introduces new ways of working in an increasingly connected, digital world. The platform includes tools for easy access to a physicians schedule, secure messaging, dictation, speech recognition, scribing, and more. It also provides a white-labeled digital front door app that earlier this year received across-the-board A+ ratings from KLAS Research.

We are creating an ecosystem of capabilities within the DeliverHealth Platform to give clinicians and physicians convenient, simple ways to document, code, and communicate with patients in the patients preferred way, said Jason Martin, Chief Product Officer, Provider Solutions at DeliverHealth. We believe a physicians burden can be lessened through better digital patient experiences, reducing re-work and paperwork, and the overall improving of timely digital communications.

For more information on DeliverHealth and its new Language Access workflow tool, visit http://www.deliverhealth.com or contact a member of the team today.

About DeliverHealth

Our name says it all DeliverHealth simplifies Electronic Health Record (EHR), patient engagement and mid-revenue cycle complexities, making sure your existing technology, processes, providers and patients are aligned and engaged for better outcomes and greater success. The DeliverHealth Platform applies purpose-built artificial intelligence to clear the way for the healthcare connections that matter most, removing complexities from within health systems and helping to solve systemic issues like physician burnout, the connected patient journey, and the transition to digital health. By building simplicity into documentation, codification and the digital health patient experience, we help our customers see the realization of their EHR investments and improve upon their security and risk management. With clients and operations in five countries, hundreds of successful EHR go-live deployments, and three decades of Health Information Management expertise, DeliverHealth helps todays providers prepare now for the future of healthcare. Visit http://www.deliverhealth.com, or find us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.
William Lobel "I am honored to be nominated for my efforts to help business owners navigate distressed finances, said Lobel. It is more important than ever for the business community to embrace innovation in these uncertain economic times.

Distressed Capital Resources LLC founder and president William Bill Lobel has been nominated for the Orange County Business Journals Innovator of the Year Award. This award recognizes Orange County business leaders who are creating game-changing ideas, processes, products, services, and business models.

I am honored to be nominated for my efforts to help business owners navigate distressed finances, said Lobel. It is more important than ever for the business community to embrace innovation in these uncertain economic times, and I am proud to be recognized for the essential work of ensuring businesses avoid financial and reputational damage.

For more than 30 years, Lobel has helped owners of real estate and businesses in financial distress avoid or successfully emerge from chapter 11 bankruptcy. He launched Distressed Capital Resources earlier this year to bring together a wide variety of advisers and providers of funds and services who can help clients save their businesses, keeping the doors open and preserving jobs and economic activity.

A leading bankruptcy attorney on the national stage for decades, Lobel is well-acquainted with the financial needs of a variety of industries. A founder of the California Bankruptcy Forum, Lobel is a Fellow of the American College of Bankruptcy. His legal work has been recognized with awards from Best Lawyers, Super Lawyers, Martindale Hubbell, Lawdragon and Chambers USA.

The Orange County Business Journals Innovator of the Year Awards celebrate business leaders who are at the forefront of innovation in Orange County. Nominees are chosen from online submissions based on their professional achievements and their contributions to their community and industry. The awards will be presented at a special luncheon and ceremony on Sept. 8, 2022 at the Irvine Marriott.

About Distressed Capital Resources: Distressed Capital Resources, LLC was created to offer owners of businesses and real estate in financial distress an alternative to bankruptcy. Founded by experienced bankruptcy attorney William Bill Lobel, Distressed Capital Resources helps clients evaluate their situations and identify the experts and sources of funding that can help them overcome their business challenges, from renegotiating leases to securing new financing to restructuring existing debt. Our end goal is to preserve our clients reputations and their hard-earned assets. To learn more, visit distressedcapitalresources.com.
Improving air quality in your home remains a crucial priority to lower rates of health concerns.

Duct Doctor USA has announced the release of its new resource Why Clean Air is So Important in Your Home. This resource provides insight into the importance of clean air by covering health issues associated with polluted air in a house, the benefits of having clean indoor air, how to establish clean air in a house, and how different parts of a house should be cleaned.

According to Duct Doctors USA, Improving air quality in your home remains a crucial priority to lower rates of health concerns. A homes air quality can be improved by establishing a consistent cleaning routine, keeping humidity levels below 50%, keeping windows closed during pollen season, and cleaning and replacing carpets and rugs.

Having clean indoor air has a significant impact on a persons health because it lowers the risk of heart disease, acts as an anti-aging component, improves cognitive health, and increases happiness. Not having clean air in a house can play a role in various health conditions including pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, and ischemic heart disease.

To learn more about why clean air is so vital in a home, please visit Duct Doctor USA here.

About Duct Doctor USA:

Founded in 1985, Duct Doctor USA provides quality source removal air duct cleaning and indoor air quality improvement services. Duct Doctor USA serves customers in over 125 cities and 11 states, and since 2005, they have served customers through foreign franchises. Duct Doctor USA management includes multiple NADCA Certified Air Systems Cleaning Specialists and two Board Certified Allergists.
Our aim is to meet customer needs in Greater China by building and expanding our supply chain through local production in China. said DuPont Healthcare Global Business Director, Eugenio Toccalino

DuPont (NYSE:DD) today announced that it will increase production capabilities for its Liveo Pharma Silicone Tubing by adding manufacturing capacity in eastern China. The manufacturing expansion aims to meet demand for high-quality, high-performance biopharmaceutical tubing in Greater China.

Tubing represents one of the largest surface areas in direct contact with drug substances and products during the drug manufacturing process. Consequently, it needs to meet strict regulatory and quality requirements. The Liveo Pharma Silicone Tubing produced in eastern China will be manufactured in a facility governed by the same quality principles as those of the DuPont Healthcare Industries Materials Site (HIMS) in the U.S.

We understand the criticality of supply in times of high demand and tightening supply, said DuPont Healthcare Global Business Director, Eugenio Toccalino. Our aim is to meet customer needs in Greater China by building and expanding our supply chain through local production in China.

As a result of the global biologic production trend  the reliability and adaptability of single-use components suppliers is more critical than ever. Toccalino added: DuPont Liveo continued investments demonstrate our long-term commitment to the healthcare industry.

In addition to the long-operating HIMS facility in the U.S. and the new site in China, DuPont Healthcare recently announced the opening of a second U.S. site in Cooper River, South Carolina, for the production of Liveo Pharma Tubing.

Representatives from DuPont Healthcare will attend the EBC Biological Industry Conference in Suzhou, China, August 25 to 27. Further information on the expanded manufacturing capabilities and recent product innovations will be available in booth B093 at the event, and at a presentation by Alex Yang, DuPont Healthcares Asia-Pacific Marketing Manager at the show, on August 27.

About DuPont Liveo Healthcare Solutions

DuPont Liveo is a globally recognized leader in technology for a broad range of innovations in medical devices, biopharmaceutical processing and pharmaceutical solutions. DuPont high-performance materials help create safer healthcare environments and protect the health of patients and healthcare providers worldwide. We help enable smarter healthcare and positive patient outcomes. More information can be found at liveo.dupont.com.

About DuPont Electronics & Industrial

DuPont Electronics & Industrial is a global supplier of new technologies and performance materials serving the semiconductor, circuit board, display, digital and flexographic printing, healthcare, aerospace, industrial, and transportation industries. From advanced technology centers worldwide, teams of talented research scientists and application experts work closely with customers, providing solutions, products and technical service to enable next-generation technologies.

About DuPont

DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, construction, water, healthcare and worker safety. More information about the company, its businesses and solutions can be found at http://www.dupont.com. Investors can access information included on the Investor Relations section of the website at investors.dupont.com.

Overview

On November 2, 2021, DuPont announced it has entered definitive agreements to acquire Rogers Corporation (Rogers), (the Intended Rogers Acquisition). On January 25, 2022, Rogerss shareholders approved the transaction. Closing is expected in late second quarter 2022 or early third quarter 2022, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

On February 18, 2022, DuPont announced that it has entered into definitive agreements to divest a majority of its historic Mobility & Materials segment, excluding certain Advanced Solutions and Performance Resins businesses, to Celanese Corporation (Celanese), (the M&M Divestiture). Closing is expected around the end of 2022, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The Company also announced on February 18, 2022, that its Board of Directors has approved the divestiture of the Delrin acetal homopolymer (H-POM) business. In addition to the entry into definitive agreements, the Company anticipates that the closing of the sale of Delrin would be subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions, (the Delrin Divestiture and together with the M&M Divestiture, the "M&M Divestitures).

As of March 31, 2022, the results of operations and the assets and liabilities of the businesses in scope for the M&M Divestitures are presented as discontinued operations for all periods presented. The cash flows of these businesses have not been segregated and are included in the interim Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. Unless otherwise indicated, the discussion of results, including the financial measures further discussed below, refer only to DuPont's Continuing Operations and do not include discussion of balances or activity of the businesses in scope for the M&M Divestitures. The Auto Adhesives & Fluids, Multibase and Tedlar product lines previously within the historic Mobility & Materials segment (the "Retained Businesses") are not included in the scope of the intended divestitures. The Retained Businesses are reported in Corporate & Other. The reporting changes have been retrospectively applied for all periods presented.

Cautionary Statement about Forward-looking Statements

This communication contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future business and financial performance and financial condition, and often contain words such as "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "seek," "see," "will," "would," "target," and similar expressions and variations or negatives of these words.

Forward-looking statements address matters that are, to varying degrees, uncertain and subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, many of which that are beyond DuPont's control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results. Some of the important factors that could cause DuPont's actual results to differ materially from those projected in any such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (i) the parties ability to meet expectations regarding the timing, completion and accounting and tax treatments of the M&M Divestiture to Celanese, including (x) any failure to obtain necessary regulatory approvals, anticipated tax treatment or to satisfy any of the other conditions to the proposed transaction, (y) the possibility that unforeseen liabilities, future capital expenditures, revenues, expenses, earnings, synergies, economic performance, indebtedness, financial condition, losses, future prospects, business and management strategies could impact the value, timing or pursuit of the proposed transaction, and (z) risks and costs and pursuit and/or implementation, timing and impacts to business operations of the separation of business lines in scope for the M&M Divestiture to Celanese, (ii) the timing and outcome of the Delrin Business Divestiture, including entry into definitive agreements, and the risks, costs and ability to realize benefits from the pursuit of the Delrin Business Divestiture; (iii) ability to achieve anticipated tax treatments in connection with mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and other portfolio changes actions and impact of changes in relevant tax and other laws; (iv) indemnification of certain legacy liabilities; (v) risks and costs related to each of the parties respective performance under and the impact of the arrangement to share future eligible PFAS costs by and between DuPont, Corteva and Chemours; (vi) failure to timely close on anticipated terms (or at all), realize expected benefits and effectively manage and achieve anticipated synergies and operational efficiencies in connection with mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and other portfolio changes including the Intended Rogers Acquisition and the M&M Divestitures; (vii) risks and uncertainties, including increased costs and the ability to obtain raw materials and meet customer needs, related to operational and supply chain impacts or disruptions, which may result from, among other events, the COVID-19 pandemic and actions in response to it, and geo-political and weather related events; (viii) ability to offset increases in cost of inputs, including raw materials, energy and logistics; (ix) risks, including ability to achieve, and costs associated with DuPonts sustainability strategy including the actual conduct of the companys activities and results thereof, and the development, implementation, achievement or continuation of any goal, program, policy or initiative discussed or expected,; and (x) other risks to DuPont's business, operations; each as further discussed in DuPonts most recent annual report and subsequent current and periodic reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles to the realization of forward-looking statements. Consequences of material differences in results as compared with those anticipated in the forward-looking statements could include, among other things, business or supply chain disruption, operational problems, financial loss, legal liability to third parties and similar risks, any of which could have a material adverse effect on DuPonts consolidated financial condition, results of operations, credit rating or liquidity. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. DuPont assumes no obligation to publicly provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws.

# # #

DuPont, the DuPont Oval Logo, and all trademarks and service marks denoted with , SM or  are owned by affiliates of DuPont de Nemours, Inc. unless otherwise noted.

08/09/22

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DuPont to commercialize DuPont Liveo Pharma Silicone Tubing in China to meet growing local demand for high-quality products.
From the latest in airborne lidar, to tools that help bring together information collected from the ground, drones, and satellites, Geo Week brings once-siloed disciplines together on a single show floor.

Organizers of Geo Week, the premier event that champions the coming together of geospatial technologies and the built world, have announced an impressive list of more than 100 exhibitors from around the globe that have already signed on to exhibit at the 2023 event, which will take place February 13-15, 2023 in Denver, CO. The show floor is expected to be completely sold out very soon.

The nearly sold-out exhibit floor will be comprised of companies representing the best in lidar, reality capture, 3D modeling, point cloud processing, and more, said Lee Corkhill, Group Director at Diversified Communications, organizer of the event. From the latest in airborne lidar, to tools that help bring together information collected from the ground, drones, and satellites, Geo Week brings once-siloed disciplines together on a single show floor.

The list of exhibitors showcasing best-in-class AEC, 3D and geospatial/lidar technologies is growing daily and currently includes these organizations:

3DEO, Inc.

Advanced Scientific Concepts LLC

Aerial Response Solutions

Aero - Graphics Inc.

Agisoft

AIRtec

AirWise Solutions

AirWorks

Allvision

Applanix

Applied Imagery

ArenaCAD USA

ASPRS

ASTRA Lite, Inc.

ATIS.cloud

AVEVA

Axis GeoSpatial, LLC

Bad Elf

Balko Tech

BayesMap Solutions, LLC

Blue Marble Geographics

Bluesky Geospatial

Carahsoft

Cardinal Systems LLC

Cesium

CHC Navigation

Cintoo US Inc.

ClearEdge3D

Clirio, Inc.

CompassData Inc.

DAT/EM Systems International

Dewberry

DIELMO 3D S.L.

Dynamic Aviation

EcoPoint, Inc.

Emesent

ESRI

e-Survey

Exyn Technologies Inc.

FARO Technologies, Inc.

Frontier Precision

GeoCue Group

Geodetics, Inc.

Geo-Plus

GeoSLAM Ltd

GEXCEL

GPI Geospatial, Inc.

Harris Aerial

Hesai Technology

Hexagon

Impulseradar

iXBlue

Jakarto

Kaarta

KELYN Technologies

Keystone Aerial Surveys

L3Harris

Lead'Air

Leica

LIDARUSA

MAPPS

Matterport Inc.

Merrick & Company

Microdrones

Mosaic

Multicopter Warehouse

NavVis US, Inc.

Nearmap

NV5 Geospatial

Oxford Technical Solutions

Pavemetrics Systems Inc.

Pelican Corp

Phase One

Phoenix LiDAR Systems

Pioneer Exploration Consultants Ltd

Pix4D SA

PointCab GmbH / Laserscanning Europe

PointFuse

Power Technology

Prevu3D

Qii.AI

RDO Equipment Company

RESolute

Revolution Flight

RIEGL USA Inc.

Sanborn Mapping Company

SBG SYSTEMS

Screening Eagle Technologies

Seiler Instrument Geospatial

Shanghai PYTES Energy Co., LTD

Skyfront Corp.

Skyline Software Systems, Inc.

Smart Delta Systems & Solutions

Smart Drone

SOMAG AG JENA

Surphaser/ Basis Software, Inc.

Teledyne Geospatial

TerraGo Technologies

Terrasolid Ltd

TopoDOT

Trimble

US Geological Survey

USIBD

Vectornav Technologies

VeriDaaS

Vexcel Imaging

Voxelmaps

VRMesh

WGIC

Wingtra

Wispr Systems

Woolpert

YellowScan

Z+F USA, Inc.

Event Features

100+ Exhibitors: Geo Week exhibitors include leaders in laser scanning, lidar, and reality capture technologies, as well as tools for 3D visualization and analysis, BIM, digital building technologies and more. At Geo Week, attendees will get hands-on with technologies that provide data for understanding the world to create more efficient workflows and aid in decision making.

Robust Conference Programming: The Geo Week conference program will showcase real-world use cases, highlighting emerging trends in technology and processes. Session topics are set to include the democratization of reality capture, the expanding toolbox for surveyors, the readiness of the AEC industry to adopt new technologies, how workflows can be seamlessly integrated, and how lidar and geospatial information can be used towards meeting sustainability goals and reducing inefficiency and waste. In addition to the main Conference Program, education will also take place in the Exhibit Hall Theater and be included with Exhibit Hall pass.

Networking and Matchmaking Opportunities: From networking receptions to AI-supported matchmaking, Geo Week provides numerous opportunities for attendees to connect and grow their professional networks.

Partner Events and Supporters

Event Partners: Geo Week is proud to partner with American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), MAPPS, USIBD and the World Geospatial Industry Council (WGIC), providing additional opportunities to learn and connect.

120+ Supporting Partners: Leading industry organizations and media from around the globe have signed on to support Geo Week, recognizing it as the premier event for increased integration between the built environment, advanced airborne/terrestrial technologies, and commercial 3D technologies.

Full event information, including workshops, conference programming, networking events, and more will be available soon. Registration for the 2023 event will open in October  stay in the know.

About Geo Week

Geo Week is part of a network of events and media for the global geospatial and built markets organized by Diversified Communications, a leading organizer of conferences, trade shows, and online media with 16 years in the technology arena. Geo Week, taking place February 13-15, 2023, reflects the increased integration between the built environment, advanced airborne/terrestrial technologies, and commercial 3D technologies. Powerful partnership events will also take place at Geo Week, including ASPRS (American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing) Annual Conference.

Diversified Communications also produces Lidar & Geospatial Newsletter, 3D Technology Newsletter, AEC Innovations Newsletter, GeoBusiness Show (UK), Digital Construction Week (UK), Commercial UAV Expo and Commercial UAV News. For more information, visit http://www.geo-week.com.

Contacts:

Lora Burns

Geo Week Marketing Manager

LBurns@divcom.com


Assistive Technology ROI for Disability Providers "Our partnership with GrandCare Systems along with our innovative business model has improved resident independence, family satisfaction and saved a lot of money. Staff are available when people need them, which is liberating both for staff and for the people receiving services.

Individuals with developmental disabilities often face increased barriers to independent living. Disability support providers, just like other in-home care organizations, are experiencing serious staff shortages, rising costs of services, and a growing number of people requiring these services.

GrandCare Systems, makers of touchscreen-based remote monitoring/support technology, and LADD, Inc., a non-profit agency empowering adults with developmental disabilities (DD) announced groundbreaking results from a Xavier University study. Researchers at Xavier set out to measure occupational performance (the ability to do everyday tasks without help), resident satisfaction, and the cost of care in the new smart home setting. The results were remarkable including a 75% reduction in in-person support hours.

In fall of 2020, four residents moved into LADDs newly constructed Heidt Smart Home which was outfitted with groundbreaking enabling technologies. In addition to security, smart home and accessibility technologies, and wearables, GrandCare touchscreens were placed in every room throughout the house. These touchscreens support residents in daily tasks, cognitive assists, medication adherence, family connection and one touch video support. GrandCares activity and telehealth sensors prompted remote caregivers to proactively support and intervene in resident care exactly when and where help was needed.

One of the metrics used in the study was success in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). These include tasks such as: bathing, dressing, and eating, but also financial management, shopping and meal preparation. The technologies allowed for residents to perform more of their ADLs and IADLs successfully, with less supervision." Not only that, but technology-assisted care brought increases in participants' self-ratings of performance and satisfaction."

The men in the smart home were able to do more things independently, for themselves, which led to higher feelings of self-worth and satisfaction.

"This system has the power to transform disabilities services and improve lives across the country," said Brian Hart, Chief Operating Officer at LADD, Inc. "Our partnership with GrandCare Systems along with our innovative business model has improved resident independence, family satisfaction and saved a lot of money. Staff are available when people need them, which is liberating both for staff and for the people receiving services.

"Our partnership with LADD has been incredibly rewarding, said GrandCare CEO, Laura Mitchell. Together we have created a model and technology application that is specifically customized and catered to the developmental disability population, their families and caregivers.

The study also found that LADD was able to safely reduce direct caregiving hours by an astonishing 75% while improving outcomes. This had a profound impact on the cost of care. Prior to GrandCare and remote monitoring technologies, the cost of in-person supports was $5,260 per week. Supportive technologies slashed the total cost of support for the four residents by more than 50% to only $2,607 per week. That adds up to $137,941 per year. With these savings, LADD was able to pay off all of the smart home technology in less than a year, only 36.7 weeks.

The LADD smart living system is arguably the first and most innovative tech-enabled system in the disability marketplace. The results have been so overwhelmingly positive that LADD is currently building several more smart homes for clients with DD and is offering consulting services to other disability service providers seeking to replicate LADDs business plan along with their carefully vetted technology solutions.

GrandCare and LADD will co-present a free webinar on Wednesday, August 17, at 1pm ET sharing insights, results of the study and lessons learned in the past three years of working together. All are welcome to attend, however, spots are limited and registration is required. Register for free here.

About GrandCare Systems:

GrandCare is a large touchscreen hub with communication, cognitive assists and social engagement tools, including medication reminders, daily task lists, schedules, instructional videos and HIPAA compliant video chat options. Wireless telehealth and activity monitoring sensors can alert support staff if something needs extra attention. GrandCare has been serving the aging and disability industry since 2005 and with headquarters in Wisconsin and southern California.

Media Contact: LMC

Marketing & PR FIRM

LMC@LMCLLC.us

About LADD:

Guided by the belief that every person has ability and value, LADD empowers adults with developmental disabilities to live, work, and connect. Founded in 1975, the Cincinnati non-profit now supports more than 650 individuals through housing, employment and meaningful community engagement programs. Learn more at https://laddinc.org.

Media Contact: Nyketa Gaffney

Communications Manager

ngaffney@laddinc.org
David K. Blattner Headshot

Global law firm Greenberg Traurig, P.A. continues the strategic expansion of its Real Estate Practice with the addition of David K. Blattner as of counsel in the firms Fort Lauderdale office. He joins Greenberg Traurig from Becker.

With more than 25 years of experience, Blattner focuses his practice on complex real estate transactions, advising clients in the acquisition, financing, and development of large projects, including shopping centers, warehouses and industrial buildings, hotels, and multi-family residential communities.

David brings a high level of experience and complementary skills to the firm as we continue to expand in South Florida and beyond, Fort Lauderdale Co-Managing Shareholder Matthew W. Miller said. He further strengthens our real estate sector capabilities and will work synergistically with our Fort Lauderdale corporate team, enabling us to better serve clients in need of specialized transactional advice. As always, we remain committed to adding skilled attorneys who see the benefits of the firms global platform and collaborative culture in helping clients to achieve their business goals.

A key part of Blattners practice is assisting with the negotiation and closing of significant credit facilities for the acquisition and construction of real estate projects. His clients include developers, financial institutions, property management companies, landlords, and tenants throughout Florida, the United States, Canada, South America, and Asia.

I was drawn to Greenberg Traurig because of the firms strong history and reputation in the area of real estate law, along with its significant involvement in civic and philanthropic efforts, Blattner said. As a long-time member of the South Florida legal community, I look forward to reconnecting with former colleagues who now work at Greenberg Traurig and meeting new ones, and to growing my practice with the firm.

An advocate for green urbanism, he serves as the 2022 Chairman of the City of Fort Lauderdales Sustainability Advisory Board, which aims to identify and make recommendations that establish the city as a leader in environmental sustainability.

Blattner earned his J.D., cum laude, from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law and his B.A. from The George Washington University.

About Greenberg Traurig: Greenberg Traurig, LLP has more than 2500 attorneys in 43 locations in the United States, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East. The firm reported gross revenue of over $2 Billion for FY 2021 and is consistently among the top firms on the Am Law 100, Am Law Global 100, and NLJ 250. On the debut 2022 Law360 Pulse Leaderboard, it is a Top 15 firm. Greenberg Traurig is Mansfield Rule 4.0 Certified Plus by The Diversity Lab and the Center for Resource Solutions Green-e Energy program certifies that the firms U.S. offices are 100% powered by renewable energy. The firm is often recognized for its focus on philanthropic giving, innovation, diversity, and pro bono. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com.
Innophos Whitepaper Cover Following a highly attended presentation at IFT First 22, we are excited to share the science behind the unique benefits that phosphates bring to plant-based products.

Innophos, a global leader of specialty ingredient solutions that deliver far-reaching, versatile benefits for the food, health, and nutrition markets, today announced the release of its latest whitepaper, Solutions for Plant-Based Meat Substitutes. This latest whitepaper follows a recent presentation Innophos made at the 2022 Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Annual Event and Expo, highlighting solutions to solve the challenges around formulating plant-based meat substitutes.

The new whitepaper presents case studies that showcase how the right phosphate and protein combinations can improve the texture and taste of plant-based meat substitute products. Key topics include:



Consumer trends and how Gen Z is driving change in the plant-based space

The challenges of formulating meat substitutes with plant-based proteins

Detailed case studies on the impact of phosphate technologies on texture in a variety of plant-based meat substitutes.

Following a highly attended presentation at IFT First 22, we are excited to share the science behind the unique benefits that phosphates bring to plant-based products, said Eugenia Erlij, Vice President of

Marketing and Communications at Innophos.

Innophos is committed to providing the highest quality, science-backed products, and has developed significant research to strengthen our offerings in the plant-based space to deliver new solutions to our customers.

Find more information about Innophos' plant-based protein solutions or download the Solutions for Plant-Based Meat Substitutes whitepaper.

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About Innophos

Innophos is a leading international producer of specialty ingredient solutions that deliver far-reaching, versatile benefits for the food, health, nutrition, and industrial markets. We leverage our expertise in the science and technology of blending and formulating phosphate, mineral, enzyme, and botanical-based ingredients to help our customers offer products that are tasty, healthy, nutritious and economical. Headquartered in Cranbury, New Jersey, Innophos has manufacturing operations across the United States, Canada, Mexico and China.
The Well Coffee House, Boston, Massachusetts We help entrepreneurs with little or no coffee experience become owners of thriving coffee shops. - Greg Ubert, Founder and President, Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea

Want to learn how to open a coffee shop in Massachusetts? Get insider secrets on starting a profitable business in the Bay State from the coffee shop startup experts at Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea.

Through its 7 Steps to Success coffee shop startup program, Roast magazines 2016 Macro Roaster of the Year has taught over 300 entrepreneurs in 30 states how to open a coffee shop. The company supports five independent coffee shops in Massachusetts.

Now, the companys 7 Steps coffee shop startup consulting team has added to its series of state-level coffee shop startup guides with, How to Start a Coffee Shop in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts is a land of opportunity for many types of small businesses, and coffee shops are no exception, said Crimson Cup Founder and President Greg Ubert.

In fact, Massachusetts ranks 10th among the states in the number of coffee shops per capita, with fewer than one coffee shop for every 3,891 Massachusetts residents. That leaves a lot of Bay Staters without a local coffee shop.

He noted Crimson Cup supports five independent coffee shops in Massachusetts. These entrepreneurs learned how to open their shops through the companys 7 Steps to Success coffee shop startup program.

The program is based on Uberts book, Seven Steps to Success: A Common-sense Guide to Succeed to Specialty Coffee, which he wrote initially to help coffee shop customers master all aspects of successful coffee shop operations.

We help entrepreneurs with little or no coffee experience become owners of thriving coffee shops serving their local communities, he said. From choosing a terrific location and writing a strong coffee shop business plan to buying and laying out equipment, hiring and training staff and more, our team is here to guide you.

To hear about the book in Uberts own words, download a free recorded introduction on Soundcloud.

As a coffee roaster and coffee business consultant, Crimson Cup believes our company only succeeds when our customers do, Ubert said. As a result, we support coffee shop owners at every step, from concept through opening day and beyond.

A growing number of Crimson Cup customers  including The Well Coffee House in Boston  have opened multiple locations.

The coffee shops are an outgrowth of The Church at the Well, which was founded by Pastor Kevin Scott, his wife Christy, and Associate Pastor Matt Love and his wife Julie.

With a motto of Coffee  Love  Community, their vision was to create a nonprofit coffee house that would serve as a community gathering place.

The initial Well Coffee House opened in Bostons historic South Station in 2014.

Staffed by volunteers who desire to be a blessing to others, the nonprofit donates a percentage of profits and the contents of its donation jar to other nonprofits.

In 2018, The Well opened a second coffeehouse at the corner of State and Washington streets, which is on The Freedom Trail next to The Old State House.

Just two years later, New England magazine named both locations among the 12 best coffee shops in Boston.

Construction prompted closure of the South Station location in 2020, but The Well continued expanding, adding two new locations early in 2022.

At 173 East Border Street, The Well Coffee House East Boston sits on Central Square in East Boston, while The Well Coffee House Everett is at 983 Broadway in Everett, Massachusetts.

Were thrilled to continue working with the team at The Well as they expand their footprint and serve more customers, Ubert said. Their mission aligns with our own Focus on Good, creating positive change through our products and relationships around the world.

Besides the Massachusetts guide, Crimson Cup recently published guides on How to Start a Coffee Shop in Texas, Ohio, North Carolina, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Tennessee, Georgia, Indiana and Kentucky.

About once a week for the next year, the roaster will post a state-level coffee shop startup guides on its website. Next up: a guide on how to start a coffee shop in Florida.

Although the fundamentals of coffee shop operation remain the same from state to state, the economic opportunities, business formation and licensing requirements vary widely, Ubert said. Were excited to share information and resources to help entrepreneurs expedite their startup journey.

He invited anyone who is thinking of opening a coffee shop in any state to call Crimson Cup for guidance.

If you run into any roadblocks or just want to discuss your vision with a coffee expert, you can reach our startup team by calling 1-888-800-9224.

About Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea

Founded in 1991, Crimson Cup is at the forefront of the coffee industry. Its attentive roasting, startup support and global partnerships are consciously designed for the greater good of communities around the world. Among other national recognitions, the company has earned 2020 and 2017 Good Food Awards, the 2019 Golden Bean Champion for Small Franchise/Chain Roaster and Roast magazines 2016 Macro Roaster of the Year.

Crimson Cup travels the world searching for the perfect cup  driven by meaningful relationships, honesty and a shared vision for the future. Its Friend2Farmer initiatives foster respect and decency through mutually beneficial collaboration across local and global communities.

Through its 7 Steps to Success coffee shop startup program, the company teaches entrepreneurs how to open and run independent coffee houses in their local communities. By developing a coffee shop business plan, entrepreneurs gain insight into coffee shop startup costs.

Crimson Cup coffee is available through over 350 independent coffee houses, grocers, college and universities, restaurants and food service operations across 30 states, Guam and Bangladesh. The company also owns several Crimson Cup Coffee Shops and a new CRIMSON retail flagship store. To learn more, visit crimsoncup.com, or follow the company on Facebook and Instagram.
A competitor vehicle on the Rebelle Rally From embedded navigation systems in vehicles we drive everyday, to backcountry-friendly apps, Mapbox is our go-to recommendation for a digital mapping and location services partner. Were excited to welcome them back to the Rebelle start line. - Rebelle Rally Founder Emily Miller

Longtime partner Mapbox announced their support for the 2022 Rebelle Rally as a Gold Partner and official mapping partner. The technology company delivers a mapping and real-time location intelligence platform that powers many of the worlds best known brands and apps. Mapbox is also known by the Rebelle for its excellent team that shares the same values and enthusiasm for adventure, automotive, navigation, and the excitement of bringing it all together.

We only stand behind products and companies we truly believe in. Since the start of our partnership in 2018, Mapbox has guided us through our outdoor adventures, said Emily Miller, Founder of the Rebelle Rally. From embedded navigation systems in vehicles we drive everyday, to backcountry-friendly apps, Mapbox is our go-to recommendation for a digital mapping and location services partner. Were excited to welcome them back to the Rebelle start line.

The ultimate challenge of precision driving and navigation, the Rebelle Rally tests skills over eight days of competition. This year, Mapbox will be the location backbone of some of the most vital technology for the rally  from the 3D mapping from navigation app onX Offroad and the basemap for the live-tracking to daily fly-through visualizations of each stage of the course. Rebelle uses the Mapbox platform to power its specialty vehicle testing system that provides manufacturers the ability to monitor internal and external vehicle data from afar, transmitted by Iridium. Mapbox powers an interactive map that showcases the network of Rebelle competitors across the globe, and is also a supplier to several exciting vehicles entered into this year's competition.

Mapbox is proud to continue our close relationship with the Rebelle Rally. This premier event brings together an inspiring group of adventurers and industry-leading vehicles to tackle some of the most extreme off-road terrain, said Peter Sirota, CEO of Mapbox. From powering the in-vehicle navigation systems that get Rebelle teams to the start line and home again, to underpinning the apps used by the Rebelle crew to keep teams safe, to producing visualizations that transport spectators through the epic and challenging course, Mapbox will be there for all the competitors  both on and off the road.
Marsala Law Group Launches Lifelong Hobby Scholarship

Marsala Law Group will be furthering its efforts to serve the Denton area community by offering the Lifelong Hobby Scholarship. Each semester beginning in Fall of 2022, the firm will provide a $1,000 scholarship to a deserving student. To apply, students must submit a 3-minute video discussing a hobby they consider to be a lifelong passion and explaining how they will continue to enjoy their hobby while pursuing education and later, working.

Attorney Dominick Marsala chose this topic because he believes that students and professionals alike can benefit from pursuing a hobby despite a hectic school or work schedule. Marsala Law Group values maintaining a healthy work-lifeor school-lifebalance, believing that a personal pursuit can help a person in other areas of their life.

The topic selected reflects the values of Marsala Law Group in encouraging young people to pursue healthy hobbies while seeking higher education, and throughout their lives. The firm welcomes this opportunity to give back to the community.

Applications will be judged based on the creativity, originality, and quality of the submission video, in addition to how well it addresses the prompt.

Student applicants must be enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate college program and must have a 3.0 GPA. To view other requirements and apply, students can visit: https://www.marsalalawgroup.com/scholarship

About Marsala Law Group

Marsala Law Group is a criminal defense law firm based in Denton, Texas. The firm takes on some of the most challenging criminal cases and takes great pride in providing clients with honest, aggressive representation. It represents clients accused of serious crimes such as sex offenses and violent crimes, as well as misdemeanors like DWI and domestic violence.

Marsala Law Group also offers family law and personal injury representation.

To learn more about Marsala Law Group, please visit: https://www.marsalalawgroup.com/. To schedule a consultation, please call 940-382-1976.
MOLLI, a made-in-Canada, wire-free and radiation-free technology for localizing lesions for breast surgery, is now more widely available to all hospitals across Canada.

MOLLI Surgical and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre have successfully commercialized the Health Canada-approved and FDA-cleared MOLLI. Now, thanks to the support of the CAN Health Network, which accelerates the adoption of Canadian health care solutions, hospitals across Canada will find it easier to adopt MOLLI for use in their communities.

The collaboration among MOLLI Surgical, Sunnybrook, and the CAN Health Network has been outstanding, said Ananth Ravi, Chief Science and Clinical Officer and co-founder at MOLLI Surgical. The teams were motivated, organized, and collaborative to ensure a highly productive commercialization project. Initiatives such as these are tremendous accelerators to help scale our made-in-Canada solution to elevate the standard of care in breast surgery for Canadians.

One of the goals at MOLLI Surgical is to improve precision surgery by making it simpler for the patient, simpler for the radiologist who helps to locate the tumour, and simpler for the surgeon who has to remove the tumour.

MOLLI is a medical device that implants a tiny tissue marker  about the size of a sesame seed  to mark where the tumour is in the breast for the surgeon. These tumours are small  often the size of a pearl. The MOLLI Wand works by detecting the MOLLI Marker and visualizing its location with a simple distance reading on a tablet, helping surgeons locate lesions more efficiently with improved accuracy. The marker is implanted by a radiologist within 30 days prior to the surgery and creates scheduling flexibility for the patient and hospital, which has become of paramount importance in an unpredictable pandemic environment.

The simplicity of MOLLI means it can be adopted almost anywhere, increasing access to care for Canadians, no matter where they live.

We are thrilled that the CAN Health-supported commercialization project met our pre-established criteria for bringing this evidence-based technology to the benefit of hundreds of patients a year, said Michael Young, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Patient feedback on their experience as well as care team feedback on the ease of use and clinical accuracy were overwhelmingly positive, and the technology was easily affordable within our Quality Based Procedure (QBP) procedural funding.

MOLLI has proven that it can drastically improve both the patient and provider experience, workflow efficiency  including surgery backlogs, system integration, and patient access  and clinical accuracy, said Dr. Dante Morra, Chair, CAN Health Network. The CAN Health Network is proud to be leveraging MOLLI Surgicals ingenuity as we support the growth of this made-in-Canada solution.

MOLLI now has a national presence, from British Columbia to Nova Scotia, and is moving to expand its usage into non-breast applications such as colorectal cancer cases.

Im proud of our made-in-Canada solution to improve the breast cancer treatment experience for patients and health care providers; the results we saw in the CAN Health project validated all of the incredible work MOLLI Surgical has completed, said Fazila Seker, Ph.D., President and CEO of MOLLI Surgical Inc. Together, with our partners, we can elevate the standard of care for breast-conserving surgery in Canada  and beyond to other surgeries  as we help more people nationwide move towards wire-free and radiation-free localization.

ABOUT MOLLI SURGICAL:

MOLLI Surgical started in the operating room, where surgeons were using dated tools to treat cancer patients  and we knew we could do better. Our surgical wand is precise, easy-to-use and built with the realities of the operating room in mind. More importantly, it is built with patients in mind. Our technology replaces procedures to mark tumours with one that is not only kinder  but more accurate, efficient and cost-effective. MOLLI Surgical is proud to build the advanced equipment that patients prefer to have and that physicians prefer to use. For more information, visit mollisurgical.com.

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ABOUT CAN HEALTH NETWORK:

The CAN Health Network is a Canada-first approach to technology adoption. It helps break down barriers to scaling in the health-care system and provides an environment for companies to scale to their full potential. Currently operating in Ontario, Western and Atlantic Canada, the CAN Health Network was recently awarded $30 million by the Government of Canada as part of Budget 2022 to expand into Quebec, the Territories and with Indigenous Communities. To learn more about the CAN Health Network, visit http://www.canhealthnetwork.ca.

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ABOUT SUNNYBROOK HEALTH SCIENCES CENTRE:

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre is inventing the future of health care for the 1.3 million patients the hospital cares for each year through the dedication of its more than 10,000 staff and volunteers. An internationally recognized leader in research and education and a full affiliation with the University of Toronto distinguishes Sunnybrook as one of Canadas premier academic health sciences centres. Sunnybrook specializes in caring for high-risk pregnancies, critically ill newborns and adults, offering specialized rehabilitation, and treating and preventing cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurological and psychiatric disorders, orthopaedic and arthritic conditions and traumatic injuries. The hospital also has a unique and national leading program for the care of Canadas war veterans. To learn more about Sunnybrook, visit https://sunnybrook.ca.

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Educating new buyers about process timelines when they apply for a mortgage would go a long way toward improving satisfaction and managing expectations. Trying to connect with these potential clients, particularly younger ones, through marketing efforts could reap business benefits.

A new survey conducted by Arizent, the parent company of National Mortgage News, a comprehensive digital information resource serving the entire residential mortgage industry, finds near-universal satisfaction with the mortgage lending process across age groups, but there are still prevalent differences among customer experiences for these generational demographics.

The survey group consisted of 503 respondents who took out a new purchase mortgage and 511 participants who refinanced an existing loan within the previous 12 months. The respondents were spread evenly across baby boomers, Generation X and millennials. Due to the smaller number of participants typically seeking mortgages, 39 Generation Z borrowers were surveyed.

Participants expressed a high rate of satisfaction with the mortgage lending process, with 94% describing themselves as very satisfied or somewhat satisfied. Among the former, 62% of respondents belong to Gen Z, 56% to millennials, 59% to Gen X and 70% to boomers.

Half of survey participants expressed being very satisfied with lending transparency, pre-approval speeds, closing times and digital capabilities. Overall, 49% of borrowers said that faster closing times would have created a better experience than other factors like paperless transactions with 29% and technological efficiencies with 21%.

The digital shift in consumer behavior is evident. The research shows that 65% of borrowers applied for their mortgages online, Janet King, Vice President of Arizent Research, says. 57% of boomers used their computer or tablets while 51% of Gen X, 50% of millennials and 31% of Gen Z went the same route.

Despite privacy and cybersecurity risks, King adds, seven out of ten people across all age groups said they would give their income and asset data to mortgage providers for the sake of speed and convenience.

The research also showed that 511 participants who refinanced an existing loan within the previous 12 months answered that they used their original mortgage provider, while another 13% chose their primary financial institution. Another 22% came through referrals from their friends, family members or brokers.

The research additionally examines what expectations customers now have for the mortgage lending process, where do any shortcomings in the process open up opportunity for fintechs and nontraditional financing businesses, and how educating new buyers may improve satisfaction and loyalty.

The full report can be downloaded at: https://www.nationalmortgagenews.com/research-report/mortgage-industry-changes-will-be-driven-by-new-borrower-expectations

To read more on closing speeds and mortgage borrowers' expectations, click here.

Research Background/Methodology

Data was collected online in May 2022 from 1,014 U.S. consumers aged 18 and older, all of whom had either obtained a new purchase mortgage or refinanced an existing loan in the previous 12 months.

For more information on this survey or other Arizent research, contact:

Janet King

Vice President, Research

Arizent

janet.king@arizent.com

M 207-807-4806

About Arizent Research

Arizent Research delivers actionable insights through full-service research solutions that leverage their first-party data, subject matter expertise, and highly engaged communities across the banking, payments, mortgage, insurance, municipal finance, accounting, HR/employee benefits and wealth management communities. They conduct research to support original insights and analysis for their various editorial and content brands, as well as custom research programs for clients in the industries they serve.

About Arizent

Arizent is a business information company that advances professional communities by providing insights and analysis and convening industry leaders. The company uses deep industry expertise and a data-driven platform to deliver its services, which include subscriptions, marketing services, live events and access to Leaders, an executive forum. Arizent also connects business communities through leading financial services brands like American Banker, The Bond Buyer, Financial Planning and National Mortgage News, as well as professional services brands like Accounting Today, Employee Benefit News and Digital Insurance.


Drivers can save $20 on Nissan four-wheel alignment at Palm Springs Nissan in Cathedral City, California.

Getting a four-wheel alignment ensures that a vehicle provides a safer and smoother ride. Moreover, a four-wheel alignment prolongs the life of the tires while consuming less fuel and ensuring optimal drivability. Those who are looking to get a four-wheel alignment for their Nissan models can visit Palm Springs Nissan and save $20.

Palm Springs Nissan is an automotive dealership in Cathedral City, California, that offers special discounts on Nissan services and maintenance. Interested parties can schedule a service appointment to take advantage of these offers at the dealership.

Some of the other services offered at the dealership, in addition to four-wheel alignment, include the following:

-Oil change

-Brake services

-Tire services

-Electrical services

-Battery services

-And much more!

Along with services, drivers can also get genuine OEM Nissan parts at the dealership. Customers can order the required parts online from the comfort of their homes. All they need to do is fill out a straightforward form, and the dealerships team will contact them with the estimated price. Nissan owners who want to learn more about the services offered at Palm Springs Nissan can contact them by dialing 760-328-2800. Interested customers can also visit the dealership at 68-177 Kyle Road in Cathedral City, California.
Amy L. Rosenberger We congratulate Amy on this wonderful honor, said Managing Partner Deborah R. Willig. She has fought tirelessly for decades to improve the lives of working people and their families. She inspires us with her empathy and advocacy, and we are thrilled to see her recognized for her accomplishments.

Philadelphia labor, employment, and workers compensation law firm Willig, Williams & Davidson is proud to announce that partner Amy L. Rosenberger has been named Alumna of the Year by Eastern Mennonite University.

The award is given annually to an alumnus or alumna who has been recognized for significant achievement in their profession, community, or church. Rosenberger graduated from the university with a bachelor's degree in English.

We congratulate Amy on this wonderful honor, said Managing Partner Deborah R. Willig. She has fought tirelessly for decades to improve the lives of working people and their families. She inspires us with her empathy and advocacy, and we are thrilled to see her recognized for her accomplishments.

A labor and employment attorney at Willig, Williams & Davidson since 1995, Rosenberger has dedicated her career to representing working families. She serves as a trusted advisor to unions representing workers in government service, education, transportation, health care, and more. She represents and counsels unions in arbitration and litigation, organizing drives and collective action, and collective bargaining negotiations.

I am humbled to be recognized by EMU for doing the work that I love, said Rosenberger. It is a privilege working alongside my colleagues and clients to ensure that employees are valued and treated with the respect they deserve. I am honored to be recognized by my alma mater, where I had formative experiences that taught me the value of meaningful service.

As a workers and labor law advocate, Rosenberger has dedicated time volunteering with myriad organizations. She has served as president and board member for the Philadelphia Chapter of Labor and Employment Relations Association, as chair and long-time council member for the Pennsylvania Bar Associations Labor and Employment Law Section, and has been a Member of the AFL-CIO Union Lawyers Alliance (formerly Lawyers Coordinating Committee) since 1995, including service on its board of directors.

She is a noted authority on collective bargaining rights of public and private sector employees. Rosenberger conducts seminars and training sessions for unions throughout Pennsylvania, addressing subjects such as grievance and interest arbitrations, collective bargaining, fair representation, the Family and Medical Leave Act, and unfair labor practices. In 2021, she was elected as a Fellow of The College of Labor and Employment Lawyers, a professional association which honors leading lawyers nationwide for achievement, advancement, and excellence.

The Alumna of the Year award will be presented to Rosenberger on Oct. 8, 2022, at Eastern Mennonite Universitys Opening Homecoming Celebration Breakfast.

About Willig, Williams & Davidson  Willig, Williams & Davidson (http://www.wwdlaw.com) is one of the largest and most respected union-side labor law firms in the United States. The firm has offices in Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Jenkintown Pa., as well as Haddonfield, N.J., and Chicago, Ill. Founded in 1979, Willig, Williams & Davidson focuses on representing labor unions, employee benefit funds and individual working people and their families on a variety of legal fronts, including national, regional and local contract negotiations; election and campaign finance; dispute resolution through mediation, arbitration and litigation; family law matters; benefits law design and compliance issues; discrimination, overtime and unpaid wages, and other employment matters; prepaid legal services for union members; social security disability; and workers compensation matters in Philadelphia and beyond. Workers inspire us.
Rear view of a red 2022 Hyundai Venue on a road

Customers looking for a safe and dependable SUV for their daily commute should consider purchasing the 2022 Hyundai Venue. The 2022 Hyundai Venue offers optimum space for cargo and passengers and comes with a wide range of safety elements. Customers can visit the Greg May Hyundai dealership in Waco, Texas, to know more about the 2022 Hyundai Venue.

The 2022 Hyundai Venue starts at $19,000 and is available in three trim levels: SE, SEL, and Limited. The base trim of the 2022 Hyundai Venue packs a Smartstream four-cylinder Continuously Variable Valve Timing engine that displaces 1.6 liters to make 121 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. An Intelligent Variable Transmission system drives the front wheels of the 2022 Hyundai Venue. The vehicle also has a fuel tank capacity of 11.9 liters and fetches 29 MPG city, 33 MPG highway, and 31 MPG combined when appropriately maintained.

On the safety front, the 2022 Hyundai Venue has best-in-class scores. The vehicle is home to Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), LATCH, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), among many others.

Interested customers can test drive the 2022 Hyundai Venue at Greg May Hyundai at 1501 West Loop 340 in Waco, Texas. Prospective buyers can visit the dealerships website or call (254) 327-1616 to check out financing options or any ongoing offers that might be available on the new 2022 Hyundai Venue.
COO's Projection of Student Distribution by Delivery Mode in 2025 "Nearly 99% of chief online officers (COOs) surveyed project that online elements will feature prominently in the typical student experience within the next three years."

The seventh Changing Landscape of Online Education (CHLOE) report offers a detailed view of the online learning landscape in higher education at a pivotal point in the fields development. The results  available in CHLOE 7: Tracking Online Learning from Mainstream Acceptance to Universal Adoption  show both ongoing growth in the adoption of online learning modalities and a gap between the application of quality assurance (QA) standards and institutional strategies to evaluate efficacy.

Nearly 99% of chief online officers (COOs) surveyed project that online elements will feature prominently in the typical student experience within the next three years. Survey co-author Richard Garrett, Eduventures Chief Research Officer at Encoura, observed that online leaders anticipate significant acceleration in online adoption across students and institutions over the next few years and added that online leaders see a future defined by hybrid models rather than solely online offerings.

Online modalities  which include online synchronous, hybrid and multi-modal (e.g. HyFlex)  models gained traction during the pandemic and are becoming important factors in the online learning landscape. Survey results indicate that meeting the needs of the vast majority of learners moving to these formats will require institutions to put forth a greater commitment to QA standards. This constitutes a considerable challenge to many institutions, as most have voluntary or optional policies for meeting institutionally-adopted quality standards. Currently, 50% of COOs report that their institutions require asynchronous online courses to meet quality standards. But only 27% of schools have this same requirement for online synchronous courses, and even fewer require quality standards for other modalities.

The survey provides a wealth of additional insights into the nuanced ways in which online learning is developing within higher education. Highlights from these findings include:



Institutional strategies must be re-aligned to meet student demand. As an increasing number of students are opting into online courses, institution strategies, budgets and perspectives are evolving as noted in the survey reports, said Connie Johnson, Chief Academic Officer and Provost, Colorado Technical University and CHLOE Advisory Panel Member. Educators are well served to understand how institutions are responding to the growing demand for online and hybrid courses, credentials and programs.

Learning delivery mode preferences vary by age. "It is just fascinating to see that chief online officers predict a near-term future shift in opposite directions for traditional undergraduates, adult undergraduates and graduate students, with respect to modality preference, such that traditional undergraduates will incorporate more online learning in predominantly on-ground courses and programs, while adult undergrads and graduate students will retain some component of on-ground study in predominantly online courses and programs, said Lori Williams, CHLOE Advisory Panel Member.

Mental health is an essential component of online student services. It is heartening to see that institutions are responding to the needs and well-being of their students impacted by the pandemic, with online mental health services having the highest growth rate as reported by COOs, explained Eric Fredericksen, Associate Vice President for Online Learning and Professor, University of Rochester.

Since 2016 QM and Eduventures Research have partnered to fill the knowledge gap about how online learning is actually being managed at post-secondary institutions in the United States. To accomplish this, they survey the people who are most closely involved in this endeavor: those serving as chief online officers at their institutions. These CHLOE surveys have produced in-depth yearly reports  and two during 2020, including a special report on the pivot to remote teaching.

This years report comes at an exciting time for online learning. Cultural shifts over the last few years have opened up exciting new possibilities in this space, creating opportunities that would have seemed unlikely or impossible in the past. The report provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary online higher education. Sasha Thackaberry, Vice President of Student and Academic Services at Pearson, describes the reports relevance: The CHLOE Survey provides a critical insight into the strategic and operational direction of higher ed institutions, from two-year teaching colleges through research universities. As a resource, the CHLOE reports are useful in communicating trends and projected futures in higher education, which is increasingly digital.

The report was made possible through the support of the CHLOE Advisory Panel; Platinum sponsors iDesign, Six Red Marbles and Everspring; and Gold sponsors NC-SARA and the Online Learning Consortium.

The principal authors of the report are Richard Garrett (Encoura Eduventures Research) and Dr. Bethany Simunich (Quality Matters) with Senior Editor Dr. Ron Legon (Quality Matters) and Contributing Editor Dr. Eric Fredericksen (University of Rochester).

Dr. Bethany Simunich and Richard Garrett are available for comment:

Bethany Simunich, Ph.D., Director of Research and Innovation, Quality Matters (bsimunich@qualitymatters.org; 410.497.8068)

Richard Garrett, Eduventures Chief Research Officer, Encoura

(rgarrett@eduventures.com; 617.704.8481)

ABOUT QUALITY MATTERS

Grounded in research. Driven by best practices. A community that puts learners first. Quality Matters (QM) is the global organization leading quality assurance in online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. It provides a scalable quality assurance system for online and blended learning used within and across organizations. When you see QM Certification Marks on courses or programs, it means they have met QM Course Design Standards or QM Program Review Criteria in a rigorous review process.

ABOUT ENCOURA EDUVENTURES RESEARCH

Eduventures: Eduventures Research for higher education leaders provides primary research, analysis, and advisory services to support decision-making throughout the student life cycle. Building on 20 years of success in working with education leaders, Eduventures provides forward-looking and actionable research based on proprietary market data and advisory services that support both strategic and operational decision-making. Our recommendations and personalized support enable clients to understand the top traits of leaders in critical disciplines and evaluate the opportunities presented by new technologies. Eduventures research is available in Encoura, a data science and analytics technology platform that provides colleges and universities the information and capabilities required to create the data-enabled enrollment office of the future, today. More information on Encoura and Eduventures can be found at encoura.org
Sandler Partners, a leading independent technology solutions distributor, and one of the nations fastest-growing private companies, welcomes Michael Clayton as Director, Channel  Georgia and The Carolinas. In his new role, he will help build and support the greater Georgia and North/South Carolina markets by assisting Partners in sourcing the ideal technology solutions for their customers.

Michael has been in the industry for over 10 years, developing business and making connections within the Channel while representing notable brands Masergy and PGi. His deep understanding of the Georgian, North Carolinian, and South Carolinian markets, plus his unique understanding of solutions and customer needs positions him to help support our existing Partners as they grow their business, while also contributing to the expansion of our overall community.

From the outside, it may look like were growing our nationwide network at a hyper speed, states Mark Phaneuf, SVP, Channel  East, but we are being very careful, as always, to find the best people who can provide the support, industry/technological knowledge, and recognize our Partners needs. Michael is a great example of this, and when we had our first dialogue, his energy, enthusiasm, and expertise was immediately apparent. He is not only a great fit for our Partner and Provider community, but he also immediately feels like a part of the Sandler family.

There have been a lot of changes in the industry lately, continues Michael. What I love is being able to talk to people, lean in with my expertise, and help my Partners succeed. Ive seen how vibrant the Sandler Partners community is, with its independent spirit and sense of purpose. Its something everyone is talking about and Im really appreciative for getting the chance to be a part of it, and help it grow into the future. Im also looking forward to contributing to the success of our Georgian, North Carolinian, and South Carolinian Sandler Partners community  my community!

About Sandler Partners

Sandler Partners is Americas fastest-growing technology solutions brokerage and distributor of connectivity and cloud services. Sandler Partners has been included on the Inc. 5000 list of Americas Fastest-Growing Private Companies for 12 straight years. Over this time, weve expanded beyond our telecom roots to deliver best-in-class Cloud, Colocation, Mobility, Continuity, and Security solutions from 200+ Suppliers through a network of 9,000+ expert technology sales Partners  agents, VARs, and MSPs  to thousands of small, medium, and enterprise organizations nationwide.

How Our Partners Benefit, and their Customers, Benefit

Independently owned. Independent spirit. End users benefit from our 360 industry awareness  whos performing best by price, service, and feature set. Our Partner community gains access to our industry-leading support network of sales, marketing, and engineering professionals, plus the Sandler Portals Marketing Center (with customizable campaigns), and sales tools like SCOUTs real-time cable pricing and the Solution Finder. We stand with our Partner community, whether it's minimal involvement or direct customer support. Sandler Partners also have the industrys strongest agreements and a team with a proven track record of ensuring all commissions are found, tracked, and paid.
Renowned Team of Philadelphia Otolaryngologists Advances Clinical Practice With Specialty Conference

Representatives of Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergys team of otolaryngologists plan to attend the AAO-HNSF 2022 Annual Meeting and OTO Experience. Hosted by the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, the annual meeting will occur from September tenth through the fourteenth in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Each year, the worlds most prestigious ENT surgeons from around the world come together for a meeting of the minds. At Becker ENT & Allergy, collaboration, innovation, and continuing education are of the utmost importance. The ENT providers of Becker ENT & Allergy will have the exciting opportunity to learn about groundbreaking research, best practices, and the latest advancements in the field.

In September 2022, practicing ENT specialists, researchers, academic professors, international societies, fellows, and residents from around the globe will gather to network, share knowledge, and advance the specialty. Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergys team of dedicated physicians are committed to continuously advancing their skills, education, and training. Becker ENT & Allergys otolaryngologists treat conditions related to sinus and breathing problems, which at times require complex sinus surgeries. Dr. Becker and the physicians at Becker ENT & Allergy utilize their extensive knowledge of advancements and research in the field to provide patients with state-of-the-art treatment and care for their ENT-related medical problems. The otolaryngologists of Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy are experts in their field with patents for innovative surgical instruments, along with published articles and textbooks. Additionally, the physicians of Becker ENT & Allergy have served on editorial boards of well-known medical journals and lectured in specialty ENT forums worldwide.

Dr. Daniel G. Becker, founder and medical director of Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy, maintains a clinical practice with the most highly-trained, experienced, and qualified ENT professionals. Becker ENT & Allergys specialized team treats various ENT conditions, including allergies, snoring, sinus problems, sleep apnea, chronic ear infections, hearing loss, thyroid disease, swallowing difficulties, and facial plastic surgery. As a board-certified specialist himself, Dr. Becker focuses explicitly on his subspecialty of minimally invasive treatments for sinus and nasal problems. Dr. Becker is also a clinical professor in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) at the University of Pennsylvania. Led by Dr. Becker, the Philadelphia team of ENT doctors is thrilled to further their knowledge at the AAO-HNSF 2022 Annual Meeting.

Dr. Becker and his staff are well known in Central and Southern New Jersey for exceptional ENT care, hearing loss treatment, and hearing aids. Within the Philadelphia community, Penn Medicine Becker ENT & Allergy is a trusted provider of specialized care to address a wide range of common health problems. In addition to in-person consultations at locations in Central New Jersey, Southern New Jersey, Philadelphia, and Yardley, Pennsylvania, Becker ENT also provides online consultations for long-distance and international patients. Interested individuals can book an appointment by visiting the following link. To learn more about the AAO-HNSF 2022 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience or register to network with Becker ENT & Allergys otolaryngologists, visit https://www.entnet.org/events/annual-meeting/.
Gallo Realty leaders, agents and staff with PenFed Realty leaders Its an honor for PenFed Realty to partner with Gallo Realty, and we are incredibly excited to serve the Coastal Delaware region together from this point forward. Kevin Wiles, President, PenFed Realty

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty, the #1 independent brokerage in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network of companies worldwide, today announced a merger with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Gallo Realty in Sussex County, Del. The merger expands PenFed Realtys footprint within the Mid-Atlantic region.

Founded by Sal and Bette Gallo, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Gallo Realty began as a two-person real estate sales team in 1979. Since then, the company has grown to five offices in Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Bethany Beach, with over 100 real estate professionals, rental associates, managers, and support staff. In 2014, the company joined the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices global network.

Gallo Realty is that rare company thats both an industry leader and a beloved pillar of the community, said PenFed Realty President Kevin Wiles. Theyve built a strong reputation with their growth and success while earning amazing goodwill for their service and dedication to their community, clients, agents, and employees. Both Gallo Realty and PenFed Realty are focused on maintaining a culture centered on integrity and innovation, and are well aligned for this merger. Its an honor for PenFed Realty to partner with Gallo Realty, and we are incredibly excited to serve the Coastal Delaware region together from this point forward.

Since its inception, Gallo Realty has consistently delivered exceptional home buying and selling experiences to their clients. With an annual sales volume of over $600 million in 2021, the company sits among the top 50 in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network of brokerages worldwide and has been named to the prestigious Berkshire Elite Circle every year since they joined the network in 2014. The company also manages over 500 vacation and long-term rental properties throughout Coastal Delaware and will look to expand its property management division after the merger. In addition to the firms award-winning sales team and extensive rental portfolio, Gallo Realty is also well-known for its charitable giving through Gallo Gives Foundation, which will continue to operate in the communities they serve.

We are very excited to join such a stellar organization as PenFed Realty, said Gallo Realty Vice President Andrew Ratner. Their focus on agent support and their culture of growth align perfectly with where we want to go. Their reach and resources give us access to powerful new programs and tools that should help our agents reach their next level of success. Most importantly, PenFed Realty has a very similar culture to ours, one that emphasizes support and interaction with the communities we serve, and a philosophy that promotes personal growth for all our agents and staff.

Starting Sept. 1, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Gallo Realty will be rebranded as Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty. The company will continue to operate their five offices in Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Bethany Beach. The companys management and staff in both the sales and rental divisions will remain unchanged.

About Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty (http://www.penfedrealty.com) is a full-service real estate company with an annual sales volume of over $8 billion. Based in Alexandria, Va., the company has over 2,000 agents and 60 offices, providing complete real estate services nationwide. PenFed Realty is a wholly owned subsidiary of PenFed Credit Union and is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brokerage network, operated by HSF Affiliates LLC. Membership with PenFed Credit Union is not required to conduct business with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty. We are proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Denyce Lawton The Swirl Team continues to be a valued and integral partner to the TV One enterprise as we invest in our original film and programming pipeline, said TV Ones Executive Producer Jason Ryan.

TV One today announced filming for the production of 13th Step (working title of the film), directed by Courtney Miller ("Games People Play", "Saints & Sinners", and "Twisted House Sitter"), recently wrapped. Denyce Lawton (Chicago PD, A Luv Tale"  BET+) will star as Denae Herndon. Joining Lawton is BJ Britt (Being Mary Jane, Agents of the SHIELD) who is cast as Seth Blackman. The film is scheduled for release in the fall.

The Swirl Team continues to be a valued and integral partner to the TV One enterprise as we invest in our original film and programming pipeline, said TV Ones Executive Producer Jason Ryan. "13th Step (working title) will provide our TV One viewers with another gut-wrenching thriller, expanding our unique film roster.

The 13th step is a colloquial term for when a 12-step old-timer hits on a newcomer with less than a year of sobriety. It can be for a variety of reasons: emotional, financial, or physical. But either way, it's someone in a position of power trying to take advantage of someone weaker. In this film, it refers to a womans life thrown into a dangerous tailspin after ending an affair with the dangerous lover she met in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

13th Step (working title) is by Courtney Miller & Clifford Mcghee. The film is produced for TV One by Swirl Films. For TV One, Jason Ryan is the Executive Producer in Charge of Production, Donyell Kennedy-McCullough is Senior Director of Talent & Casting, Susan Henry is Senior Director of Original Programming and Production, and Austyn Biggers is Senior Vice President of Original Programming and Production.



For more information about TV Ones upcoming programming, including original movies, visit http://www.tvone.tv. TV One viewers can also join the conversation by connecting via social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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Nina Otero-Warren Quarter

The United States Mint (Mint) 2022 American Women Quarters Rolls and Bags  Nina Otero-Warren, will be available for purchase on August 16 at noon EDT. The Nina Otero-Warren quarter is the fourth coin in the American Women Quarters Program, a four-year series that celebrates the accomplishments and contributions made by women who have shaped our Nations history.

The rolls and bags product options include:



Priced at $40.00, a bag of 100 uncirculated clad quarter dollars minted in Philadelphia (product code 22WBG).

Priced at $40.00, a bag of 100 uncirculated clad quarter dollars minted in Denver (product code 22WBH).

Priced at $36.00, a two-roll set containing a total of 80 uncirculated clad quarter dollars minted in Philadelphia and Denver (product code 22WRG).

Priced at $54.00, a three-roll set containing a total of 120 uncirculated clad quarter dollars minted in Philadelphia, Denver, and San Francisco (product code 22WRH).

Sign up to receive Remind Me alerts by visiting the official product listing page. Because of overwhelming demand, much of the production of the 100-coin bags and two- and three-roll sets are accounted for through enrollments. Enrollments work like a magazine subscription. After you sign up, you will receive the next product released in the series and continue to receive products until you end your enrollment. Visit our enrollments page to learn more. Should any inventory become available, those products will be made available via the Remind Me feature.

The reverse (tails) of this coin depicts Nina Otero-Warren on the left, flanked by three individual Yucca flowersNew Mexicos state flower. Inscriptions are UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, E PLURIBUS UNUM, QUARTER DOLLAR, NINA OTERO-WARREN, and VOTO PARA LA MUJER, the Spanish counterpart for the suffragist slogan Votes for Women.

United States Mint Artistic Infusion Program Designer Chris Costello created the reverse design, which United States Mint Medallic Artist Craig A. Campbell sculpted.

Each coin in this series features a common obverse (heads) design depicting a portrait of George Washington. This design was originally composed and sculpted by Laura Gardin Fraser as a candidate entry for the 1932 quarter, which honored the bicentennial of George Washingtons birth. The inscriptions are LIBERTY, IN GOD WE TRUST, and 2022.

The American Women Quarters Program is a four-year program that celebrates the accomplishments and contributions made by women who have shaped our Nations history. Begun in 2022, and continuing through 2025, the Mint is issuing five new quarter-dollar reverse designs each year. The American Women Quarters Program is authorized by the Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act of 2020 (Public Law 116-330).

Inspire women everywhere. Shop the American Women Quarters Program today and start collecting this historic series honoring extraordinary women whose achievements, triumphs, and legacies reflect the strength and resilience of our Nation.

About the United States Mint

Congress created the United States Mint in 1792, and the Mint became part of the Department of the Treasury in 1873. As the Nations sole manufacturer of legal tender coinage, the Mint is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the Nation to conduct its trade and commerce. The Mint also produces numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated, and commemorative coins; Congressional Gold Medals; silver and bronze medals; and silver and gold bullion coins. Its numismatic programs are self-sustaining and operate at no cost to taxpayers.

Note: To ensure that all members of the public have fair and equal access to United States Mint products, the United States Mint will not accept and will not honor orders placed prior to the official on-sale date of August 16, 2022, at noon EDT.

Please use the United States Mint catalog site at https://catalog.usmint.gov/ as your primary source of the most current information on product and service status or call 1-800-USA-MINT (872-6468).

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:



Visit https://catalog.usmint.gov/american-women-quarters-2022-rolls-and-bags---nina-otero-warren-MASTER_AWQNOW.html for product mages..

Visit https://www.usmint.gov/learn/coin-and-medal-programs/american-women-quarters for additional information about the American Women Quarters Program.

Visit https://www.usmint.gov/about for information about the United States Mint.

Visit https://catalog.usmint.gov/email-signup to subscribe to United States Mint electronic product notifications, news releases, public statements, and our monthly educational newsletter, "Lessons That Make Cents."

# # #

United States Mint  Connecting America through Coins
In a six-house auction, Nancy Paulsen Books, an imprint of Penguin Young Readers, has acquired Thieves Gambit, part of a YA duology by Kayvion Lewis, a youth services librarian and author of The Half-Class, a fantasy novel published by independent press Parliament House. Chelsea Eberly, director of Greenhouse Literary Agency, sold North American rights to associate publisher Stacey Barney in a two-day, seven-figure auction.

Barney called Thieves Gambit one of the most inventive, breathless, exciting reads Ive ever had the privilege to edit. The plot plays out like a movie; the characters are deliciously devious and the twists just keep coming. Kayvion is a master storyteller and this publication will be an event not to be missed.

Eberly described the book as a cinematic crossover YA that will appeal to readers who love dangerous romance in a high-stakes competition such as Caraval, A Poison Steeped in Magic, and the adult bestseller Portrait of a Thief. In her pitch, she called Thieves Gambit a cutthroat competition for the worlds best thieves and the teen girl who must win to save her parents lives, comparing the storys twists, turns and secrets to The Inheritance Games and Oceans Eleven.

The plot centers on Rosalyn Quest, a teen who was raised by a legendary family of thieves with one rule: trust no one, unless their last name is Quest. Rosalyn, also known as Ross, wants more from life: friendship and true connection. She is plotting her exit from her high-pressure world when shes invited to participate in the Thieves Gambit, a deadly competition for the worlds up-and-coming thieves where the winner is granted one wish. Its a chance to free her parents, who were captured on a job. But to do so she must outwit her backstabbing competitorsa coterie of international teen thieves, including a handsome, charming stranger. The story is set in and around the world of spectacular museums, opulent galas, and elite boarding schools, Eberly added.

At its heart, Lewis said, Thieves Gambit is about a Black girl on an adventure, the kind I was always longing for. Lewis wrote the book on a break from college after having been mentored by bestselling author Nic Stone through the Author Mentor Match, a program that pairs aspiring authors with completed manuscripts with a published author who helps them to develop it.

Eberlys enthusiasm is clear. I couldnt put this one down, she said, calling the submissions process an unbelievable ride that rivaled the book plot itself with its high stakes, escalating tension, and talented competitors trying to win. The process began on a Monday; by first thing Wednesday, Barney expressed interest, and by the end of the week, there were multiple requests for a preempt and the book went to auction. Barney won the two-day auction in a seven-figure deal for three books. The process played out as Lewis jumped in from shifts at the library where she works in Shreveport, La., and from a trip to Dubai.

Charlotte Bodman of Rights People, Greenhouse Literary Agencys sister company, quickly closed a six-figure preempt with Simon & Schuster Childrens U.K. Translation rights have now sold in 22 territories.

Eberly said the book feels like a movie already, so she reached out to Dana Spector and Berni Barta at CAA, film co-agents with whom shed previously worked. They developed a pitch within days and Lionsgate, Temple Hill, Hodson Exports, and director Steven Caple Jr. won the dramatic rights. Lionsgate president of production Erin Westerman said in a release that the production is expected to introduce the world to an iconic new heroine. Lewis will executive produce.

When the idea for Thieves Gambit dropped into one of my dreams, she said, It became the opportunity for me to finally go on that adventure that she had always yearned for, only with more heists and less sword fights.

Publication of Thieves Gambit is scheduled for fall 2023.
The global transition to clean energy recently got a major boost after philanthropist Michael Bloomberg committed $242 million to help our developing countries, including several in Africa. This generous investment will significantly help ongoing and future efforts to wean the continent off non-renewables and tap into the clean energy potential it possesses.

This type of funding is sorely needed to combat the ongoing energy crisis afflicting Africa as hundreds of millions lack access to basic electricity. Unfortunately, the problem is only getting worse because of the war in Ukraine and COVID-19 as 25 million more Africans now live without electricity compared to before the pandemic, according to a recent report by the International Energy Agency. The prevalence of energy poverty plunges too many into economic exclusion, health inequality, food scarcity, and can be the difference between life and death. It deserves the same urgency as any other energy security issue confronting the world today.

At the same time, we must double down on our own commitment within Africa to boost investments to shape our own energy destiny to meet sustainable goals. With the right strategy and investment in the New Energy Deal, commitment to energy transition projects stimulated by the collective action from the private and public sectors, millions of Africans could be lifted out of energy poverty. It would lead to a more vibrant continent, higher employment, improve access to medicine, and accelerate growth. All of which ultimately helps not just Africa but the international economy.

Thats why at AXIAN Group providing renewable energy is one of our core business strategies. Our approach emphasizes sustainability by demanding action and engagement toward the goal of energy transition. Every day we develop new solutions to enable Africans to have access to clean and affordable energy for basic needs and to undertake and participate in the growth of the continent.

This is the case with WeLight, our entity that participates in energy inclusion in remote rural areas. This year we have opened a 40th village between Madagascar and Mali, resulting in an average of 9 hours more electricity per day for 30,000 people.

In Madagascar, we have become the number one solar energy producer and will soon be inaugurating the extension of the Ambatolampy photovoltaic power plant, the largest solar farm in the Indian ocean.

We also make it a priority to operate sustainable, state-of-the-art energy infrastructure by leveraging local resources as well as in-house expertise. It is within this framework that we have launched New Energy Africa and its first project in West Africa to solarize the new mineral port in Dakar, Senegal.

We plan on replicating our successful models to other countries to deliver clean, reliable energy across Africa. Our goal is to make sure that Africans experience and expect economic, social, and political inclusion, which at its heart is supplying energy to their day-to-day lives and pledging affordable solutions that are accessible to all.

It is the standard we hold ourselves too as well. AXIAN has created an Impact Index which measures every six months where we stand on our own sustainability goals, how were effecting the environment, and overall carbon footprint. For instance, the share of renewable energy of AXIAN Groups energy consumption has gone from 5% in 2018 to 65% today, with our head offices already 100% powered by solar. By 2030 the entire company will run on 100% renewable energy.

AXIAN is also a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact, an organization dedicated to improving sustainability efforts by bringing the business industry together in a strategic way to address this issue and have a positive impact. This forward-looking collaboration promotes shared principles and champions responsible action that are in the long-term interests of our environment, communities, and the people of Africa.

The current energy crisis underscores in the clearest terms the urgency to confront our current climate and economic challenges. Many of us have a shared vision to combat them through diversifying energy consumption and cultivating a more robust climate policy. But we must take advantage and embrace all the possibilities and utilizing Africas capacity and promise is one way to advance those efforts. By doing so we can forge a more secure and peaceful planet and help lift millions into a more inclusive space, especially in our countries most in need.

AXIAN is a pan African group that operates in 9 countries and specializes in 5 industries with high growth potential; namely telecoms, financial services, real estate, energy and innovation. AXIAN is an engaged partner in the socio-economic growth of the countries where it operates.

Hassanein Hiridjee is CEO at the AXIAN Group.
Actress Aubrey Plaza appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to talk about her upcoming projects and revealed a surprising connection to the Tomb Raider franchise.

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The Wilmington, Del., native went on the show Monday night, primarily to promote her upcoming crime drama film Emily the Criminal.

Plaza described Emily the Criminal as a film about "a woman...who becomes a criminal" with heavy student loans.

"She's kind of drowning in debt, she has a criminal record," Plaza said of her character. "But she can't get a job, and she's basically tipped off to do this illegal crime thing, like a scam, kind of thing...and she finds out she's kind of good at it."

The role features Plaza in a number of action scenes. When Fallon asked if Plaza would ever consider being in additional action-based roles, the actress revealed that her part in Emily the Criminal had actually gotten her mistaken for another iconic character.

After a recent appearance on the cover of MovieMaker magazine, Plaza said her friend, director Edgar Wright , "saw [the cover] and texted me and said, 'Oh my god, you're the new Lara Croft? You're the new Tomb Raider?'"

"And I was like, 'No Edgar, that's my movie Emily the Criminal,' and he genuinely thought I was cast as the new Tomb Raider," Plaza added. "And then I looked it up, and they are casting this role right now, and I was like, 'Well there you go. I'm the new Tomb Raider, whatever.'"

Plaza also spoke about filming the highly anticipated second season of HBO's drama The White Lotus, in which she will guest star. It comes out in October.

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When Fallon read HBO's description of Plaza's White Lotus character -- "a woman on vacation with her husband and his friends" -- Plaza said that she was "playing against type."

"I would never do that," Plaza joked about going on vacation. "I would never."

Plaza said she had ended up in the series due to her long friendship with show creator Mike White.

The second season of The White Lotus was shot primarily in Italy, and Plaza said she had been in the country for nearly a year, shooting The White Lotus and an upcoming film directed by her husband, Jeff Baena, called Spin Me Round.
Eva Longoria will star in a new series at Apple TV+.

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Deadline reported Tuesday that Longoria, 47, will star in and executive produce the dramedy series Land of Women.

The Hollywood Reporter confirmed the news.

Land of Women is based on the Sandra Barneda novel of the same name. Spanish actress Carmen Maura will star with Longoria in the adaptation.

The new series follows Gala (Longoria), a woman forced to flee New York with her aging mother Julia (Maura) and her college-age daughter after her husband implicates the family in financial crimes.

The trio move to the same charming wine town in Northern Spain that Gala's mother fled from 50 years ago.

Land of Women is created and written by Ramon Campos (Now & Then) and Gema R. Neira. Campos will serve as showrunner and executive producer with Longoria, Teresa Fernandez-Valdes and Ben Spector. Carlos Sedes will direct.

The show will mark Longoria's first series regular role since the NBC comedy Telenovela. Her previous roles include Gabrielle Solis on the ABC series Desperate Housewives.
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Erin is the editor in chief at The Red & Black, where she has covered music and arts, Greek life and local business. She is a senior journalism and English major, and also has bylines in Matador Network, Apartment Therapy and Down South House & Home.

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2022 is the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to China. To celebrate this historical moment, the "25th Anniversary of Hong Kong's Return to the Motherland  A New Era: Stability, Prosperity, Opportunity" exhibition hosted by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Shanghai (SHETO) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) was opened in Hefei on August 8. Through this exhibition and a series of activities, the SHETO showcases Hong Kong's achievements over the past 25 years, hopes for a better future, and shares the joy with the mainland people. Cai Liang, Director of SHETO, delivered a speech at the exhibition's opening ceremony. She hoped that the exhibition would enable the people of Hefei to deeply understand the development of Hong Kong in the past 25 years, the close relationship between Hong Kong and the Mainland, and the blueprint for the future development of Hong Kong. Cai Liang thanked the relevant units in Anhui Province and Hefei City for their strong support of this exhibition. She said that due to the epidemic, people in Anhui and Hong Kong are temporarily unable to exchange visits and communicate easily as in the past. During this period, SHETO held many youth activities in Anhui Province. In the future, it will continue to hold various economic, trade, cultural and youth activities in Anhui to promote cooperation and communication between Anhui and Hong Kong. In the form of pictures and texts, the exhibition tells the story of Hong Kong's transformation from a small fishing port to today's international metropolis. But both before and after its return, Hong Kong's developments are inseparable from the development of China. The exhibition is held at the Swan Lake Wanda Plaza from August 8 to August 14 and is free to the public. Visitors will have the opportunity to receive souvenirs and participate in workshops and check-in Hong Kong landmarks from a distance. The exhibition was successfully held in Suzhou City and Nanjing City and will be moved to Wuhu City, Anhui Province, on October 11. Photo/anhuinews.com Reported by Peng Yini, Jiang Xinyu Edited and translated by Zheng Chen
The Brattleboro Reformer and Fulflex rubber products supplier sponsored the 6th annual Backpack Giveaway at the Brattleboro Auto Mall on Tuesday. The event gave away around 200 backpacks filled with back-to-school supplies. Children also were able to get a free haircut by Shear Designs Hair 
Ezra Miller attends The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute benefit gala celebrating the opening of the "Camp: Notes on Fashion" exhibition in May 2019, in New York.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Cloudy with showers. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Cloudy with showers. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Photographer / Multimedia Editor

Has been working as a photojournalist since 2007, before moving into newspapers, he worked with an NGO called Project HOPE. He then went to work for the Press and Sun-Bulletin in New York, and then in New England working for the Brattleboro Reformer.
During Town Meeting in March, voters in Guilford approved a $1.2 million expansion of the town library by a vote of 348 to 333. However, after a reconsideration vote on May 24, the expansion project failed by a vote of 405 to 375.
As flood waters ravage Kentucky, residents are finding themselves displaced from their homes and their pets. Many of those pets have been taken in temporarily by animal shelters in Kentucky, but that leaves little room for the dogs already waiting for homes in those shelters.

So, 15 of them are coming to Connecticut.

Mother Nature is not selective. It very well could have been Connecticut that was ravaged by floods and days of power outages, with too many lost pets and no immediate way to find their owners, Theresa Geary, director of operations for the Connecticut Humane Society, said in a release.

The 15 dogs coming to Connecticut are just a drop in the bucket and Connecticuts Humane Society is not the only agency taking pets from the floods in Kentucky to new homes, according to Connecticut Humane Society Director of Development Barbara Naugle.

A truck is leaving Kentucky and heading north, Naugle said, making a stop in Virginia and then Connecticut before heading further to Massachusetts.

The reason Kentucky Humane is looking to clean out their space is because they have dogs that had been separated from their families as a result of the flooding, Naugle said. So we're trying to take as many of those as possible to try and get those dogs reunited with the rightful owners.

The dogs, which are of many breeds and ages, will need a medical check, first.

They go through a medical check and behavioral check which could take a couple of days and then if they're ready for adoption, we post them online and put them on the adoption floor, Naugle said.

Though 15 dogs is a lot to take in at any one time, Naugle said she did not expect it to be too much of a challenge.

Sometimes I think if we had 200 dogs on one day we could get them all homes by the weekend, she said. People in Connecticut are so great and love their pets and really want to take care of pets that don't have a home so we don't anticipate any trouble finding them homes.
Le Creuset

As one of the finest purveyors of high-end kitchenware, Le Creuset's new releases always cause a stir. And thats exactly what just happened with Le Creuset's new Olive Branch Collection.

Named after the countless olive trees in Provence on the border between France and Italy, the new collection embosses the branches and leaves of the olive tree on every piece of cookware. The companys goal with the design is to evoke a feeling of peace and serenity for all who use and display it.
Soung Dorn, 47, was suffocated by a military policeman on Aug. 7, villagers and his daughter say.

UPDATED at 7:30 a.m. EDT on 2022-08-11

The family of a 47-year-old Cambodian man is seeking justice after he ducked into a cafe to avoid a rainstorm, got caught in a police raid on on-line cockfight gambling, and suffocated during a rough interrogation, his daughter said Tuesday.

Soung Dorn, who was deputy chief of Rong village in the central province of Kampong Thom, died Sunday evening at the hands of a military policeman who pressed his arm over his windpipe until he stopped breathing, Nearadey Din told RFA after reporting the death in an appeal for justice on Facebook.

As he came from a meeting, it was raining and he took shelter in a coffee shop. Then a military police officer grabbed my father and pressed his neck until he could not breathe, and he died, she wrote on Facebook.

Im still so sad and shocked, I feel like fainting, she told RFA Khmer.

This should not have happened to my father. They can make an arrest, but why make people die?

Nearadey appealed on Facebook to Prime Minister Hun Sen and the chair of the Cambodian Human Rights Commission to seek justice for our father, who has suffered atrocities and such inhumanity.

In response to the incident, the commander of the National Gendarmerie, Sao Sokha, told local media that he had ordered the suspension of 11 officials involved in the arrest on Sunday and set up a commission to investigate the case immediately.

On Wednesday, local media quoted Kampong Thom provincial military police chief Hang Thol as saying that the 11 officers are being detained for investigation.

[We] asked them to stay at the headquarters as the process now is to let the inspectors finish their work first, he said.

If they investigate it and find out that they are guilty, they will put them in jail, Hang Thol told the online news outlet VOD.

But Nearadey told RFA on Tuesday that her family and villagers reject the police forensic results that said Soung Dorn died of a heart attack. She said that her father was healthy and never had heart disease or any other disease.

People shouted that he did not look good and suggested taking him to the hospital first, and arrest of him later, but they refused to do so, said Nearadey, referring to military police.

Nearadey also rejected claims by National Gendarmerie spokesman Eng Hy, who wrote on his Facebook page that officers had tried resuscitate her father with CPR. She said the military police left her father to die and then took him to a district hospital.

UPDATED with a provincial police leader saying 11 officers had been etained.
Satellite images from July 29 and Aug. 3, 2022, showing the clear cutting of forest at Phnom Tamao before Prime Minister Hun Sen called a halt after a public outcry. (Credit: Sentinel Hub)

Cambodias Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a rare order over the weekend putting an end to the clearance of forest adjacent to the countrys largest zoo, following multiple appeals by environmental groups and members of the public.

The Phnom Tamao forest, located roughly 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Phnom Penh, is home to many rare and endangered species, and is the only forested eco-destination anywhere near the capital. The forest encompasses an area of more than 6,000 acres (2,450 hectares) and is home to the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, established in 1995.

In April, media reported that the government had agreed to sell more than 1,200 acres (500 hectares) of the protected forest to real estate company Leng Navatra and two other companies said to be close to Hun Sens family. Later reports suggested the entire area had been earmarked by the government for development, excluding the 1,000 acres (400 hectares) that contain the wildlife center.

Despite widespread protests by environmental groups and members of the indigenous communities that rely on Phnom Tamao forest products, Leng Navatra on Aug. 1 commenced clearance of the area and, within a week, had torn up nearly 400 hectares of trees.

On Sunday, Hun Sen posted a message to Facebook announcing that he had decided to end destruction of the forest in response to the many requests to the government.

As I am the highest responsible person of the Royal Government, I ordered the forest to be preserved near Phnom Tamao Zoo, an end to the clearing of forest land, and for the forest to be replanted where it was cleared, he wrote.

Thank you, compatriots, for your participation in giving constructive advice.

Hun Sens announcement drew applause from Phuong Sothy, a resident of nearby Kandeung commune, who said people in the area had been caring for the forest for more than 20 years, when it was only knee-high.

It took the company just one week to clear hundreds of hectares of forest, she told RFA Khmer.

Despite the damage to the forest, Phuong Sothy said she was happy that the government had put an end to the development and plans to replant the trees.

Im so happy that I cried when I heard the news, she said.

An Aug. 6, 2022 photo showing forest that has been cleared in recent days at Phnom Tamao. Credit: Chhoeun Daravy NGOs welcome announcement

On Sunday, prior to Hun Sens order, NGOs held protests calling for an end to the clearance of Phnom Tamao forest, sources told RFA.

Nine members of the Khmer Thavorak Youth Group knelt in front of excavators at the site, unsuccessfully pleading with operators to stop their work, while 10 members of the Mother Nature environmentalist group rode cyclos from Phnom Penh to the forest, carrying signs calling for a halt to development. Both groups halted their activities after learning of Hun Sens declaration.

Khmer Thavorak Youth Groups Chhoeun Daravy told RFA that the success of the campaign to end deforestation at Phnom Tamao was a result of public participation, and she urged Cambodians to continue to express their opinions to address other problems in society.

Im so excited  everybody was jumping with joy when we learned of the decision, she said, adding that she and her fellow activists have hope again.

Hun Sens announcement was also welcomed by Nick Marx, the manager of Wildlife Alliance, a New York-based environmental group that seeks to offset climate change through forest preservation.

Marx, who has been working with Phnom Tamao forest and its wildlife center for 20 years, said his organization is prepared to discuss replanting the cleared area with Leng Navatra and has offered the company its assistance.

Prior to the clearance of Phnom Tamao, Marx issued a statement urging the government to refrain from turning the forest into yet another satellite city near Phnom Penh, arguing that doing so would unnecessarily waste a most valuable natural resource.

Instead, he called on authorities to develop Phnom Tamao in an eco-friendly fashion, with lodges, lakes, bird watching shelters, game drives, and a team of trained park rangers and guides.

This would be a valuable eco-destination for visiting tourists and Cambodian citizens and would also be a legacy for the current Prime Minister and the government, declaring its interest and desire to conserve Cambodias natural resources, he said at the time.

Civil society organizations regularly criticize Cambodias government for failing to carry out proper impact assessments before granting land concessions to developers, which they say result in projects that destroy the environment and the livelihoods of area communities.

Translated by Sok Ry Sum. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
A Navy Force helicopter under the Eastern Theater Command of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) takes part in military exercises in the waters around Taiwan, at an undisclosed location August 8, 2022 in this handout picture released on August 9, 2022.

Prolonged military exercises around the democratic island of Taiwan by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) could mean a longer-term impact on the island's trade and economic development, especially if Beijing decides to normalize blockading the island, analysts told RFA.

Some cited recent activity as suggesting that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is shifting from a policy of seeking peaceful "unification" to an emphasis on military force to put pressure on the island, which has never been ruled by the CCP, nor formed part of the 73-year-old People's Republic of China.

They said there are growing concerns that China will normalize military exercises, ignore the median line of the Taiwan Strait, and use ongoing military exercises to blockade the island and prepare the PLA for invasion.

Tso Chen-Dong, political science professor at National Taiwan University, said military action was unlikely to occur immediately, however.

"They need to take into account how they would actually do this, and they will only get behind the idea if it's doable," Tso told RFA. "Otherwise, it's not very useful just to look at the numbers of troops on paper."

"The main thing is that they want to use this opportunity to put further pressure on the relationship with Taiwan," he said.

According to Wang Chi-sheng of Taiwan-based think tank the Association of Chinese Elite Leadership, China's People's Liberation Army has already been doing this by repeated incursions over the median line and into Taiwan's territorial waters near the islands of Kinmen and Matsu, which are visible from China's southeastern province of Fujian.

"Flying over the median line of the Taiwan Strait is an attempt to erase that line by means of a fait accompli," Wang told RFA. "Chinese ships have also started moving into [Taiwan's] restricted waters around Kinmen and Matsu, which they haven't done up until now."

"The focus is on normalization," he said, adding that Beijing's future intentions will only likely become clear after the CCP's 20th National Congress later this year.

He said Beijing will likely continue to insist on "unification" with Taiwan, which has never been ruled by the CCP nor formed part of the 73-year-old People's Republic of China, under the same system it currently applies to Hong Kong, where a citywide crackdown on dissent is under way.

U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi gestures next to Legislative Yuan Vice President Tsai Chi-chang as she leaves the parliament in Taipei, Taiwan August 3, 2022. Credit: Reuters Repeated incursions

Taiwan government legal expert Shen Shih-wei agreed, saying that the positioning of the military exercises following Pelosi's visit made repeated incursions across the median line.

"This has a very significant impact on the compression of our airspace for training purposes, and on international flight routes," Shen told reporters.

"This kind of targeted deterrence [contravenes a United Nations charter], which stipulates that no country should use force to threaten the territorial integrity or political independence of another country," he said.

"We believe that the CCP is very clear about these norms, and we hope that it will abide by them."

Vincent Wang, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Adelphi University, said Taiwan's democratic way of life is walking a tightrope, as far as the CCP is concerned.

"This is why China had such a big reaction to Pelosi's visit," he said. "China doesn't want the world to see a high-ranking U.S. politician visiting a democratic society [run by people it considers Chinese] yet is independent of China," Wang said.

"The visit was a public show of support for Chinese democracy [as China sees it]," he said.

The visit doesn't appear to have deterred other foreign politicians from visiting Taiwan.

Britain's parliamentary foreign affairs committee said it will send a delegation to the island by the end of the year.

"If American dignitaries can visit Taiwan one after the other, this will provide moral support for people from other democratic countries who want to make similar visits," Wang said.

He said recent economic sanctions imposed on more than 100 Taiwanese food companies would have a short-term impact on trade with China, which accounts for 30 percent of exports in that sector, but later recover.

A Navy Force helicopter under the Eastern Theatre Command of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) takes part in military exercises in the waters around Taiwan, at an undisclosed location August 8, 2022 in this handout picture released on August 9, 2022. Credit: Eastern Theater Command/Handout via Reuters Blockade concerns

Meanwhile, Frank Xie of the Aiken School of Business at the university of South Carolina, said the CCP's lifting of a fishing moratorium in the area could mean it starts blockading the island.

"Such a blockade would have a huge impact on international shipping and air traffic, further amplifying the global supply chain crisis," Xie said.

"Taiwan, including its chip industry, would bear the brunt of the impact."

Xie said the military exercises have had a small impact on international trade, mainly in the field of transportation, including flight delays and cargo ship detours to avoid military exercise areas.

But a longer-running blockade would be hugely damaging to Taiwan, both because of the increased risk of miscalculations, and the economic impact from increased transportation costs, Xie said.

A Taiwanese businesswoman surnamed Lee who has run a plastics business in mainland China for many years, says many Taiwanese businesses in mainland China are currently thinking about relocating.

"Of course they're nervous, because most of the Taiwanese businesses are in coastal areas, which is where the military exercises are," Lee said. "But there's very little they can do."

"If they were to relocate to Taiwan, that would be easier said than done ... because it's hard to find cheap labor," she said. "But many countries in Southeast Asia aren't very stable."

William Yu, an economist at UCLA Anderson Forecast, said Taiwan's economy is still in a robust state despite the rising tensions with China, however.

"There will be no impact on Taiwan's economy in the short term," Yu told RFA. "Even if there is a bigger negative impact [later], it will turn into a positive impact in the longer term."

He said many Taiwanese businesspeople had already returned to the island in the wake of the U.S.-China trade war in 2018, giving the domestic economy a strong boost as they relocated high-end manufacturing operations to the island after years of outsourcing to China.

"Continued military exercises will make cross-strait relations worse and worse, and it will become increasingly difficult for Taiwanese businessmen to survive in mainland China," Yu predicted.

"On the other hand, it will encourage Taiwanese businesspeople to return, which is good for Taiwan's economy," he said.

Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
China is conducting more military drills in the South China, Yellow and Bohai seas through next month.

UPDATED at 9:05 a.m. EDT on 8-9-2022

Taiwan's top diplomat said Tuesday that China's military drills show it is preparing for invasion of the island but a top U.S. defense official says Beijing is trying to change the status quo gradually and an attempted takeover is not imminent.

Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu called a press briefing to lay out his governments position on Chinas military exercises launched after last week's visit to the self-governing island by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

China has used the drills in its military play-book to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan, Wu said.

Chinas real intention behind these military exercises is to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and the entire region, the minister said, warning that Beijings behavior towards Taiwan is merely a pretext and its ambitions and impact is extending far beyond Taiwan.

China was continuing its military pressure on Taiwan with more air and naval drills off the back of its initial four-day exercise after Pelosi left the democratic island, which Beijing considers to be part of China. Beijing also announced a new series of military drills in the South China Sea, Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea that will continue until next month.

On Tuesday, the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) continued to organize practical joint exercises in the sea and airspace around Taiwan Island, focusing on joint blockades and joint resupply logistics, the Ministry of Defense in Beijing said in a statement.

The PLA carried out anti-submarine and sea assault drills in waters around Taiwan on Monday, sending 13 warships, and 39 aircraft, around half of which crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait.

But U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl said Washington's defense policy makers do not think China could take over Taiwan militarily in the next two years although be believes said China is trying to salami slice their way into a new status quo in the region instead.

Clearly the PRC is trying to coerce Taiwan, clearly they're trying to coerce the international community, and all I'll say is we're not going to take the bait and it's not going to work, Kahl told a press conference at the Pentagon on Monday, referring to China by its official name the Peoples Republic of China.

What we'll do instead is to continue to fly, to sail and to operate wherever international law allows us to do so, and that includes in the Taiwan Strait, the undersecretary said, adding that he thinks there's a lot of confidence in that U.S. commitment.

That means the U.S. military is set to continue transiting the Taiwan Strait, which it considers international waters, as well as conducting freedom of navigation operations in the South China and East China Seas.

President Joe Biden on Monday said he was not worried about Chinas military exercises around Taiwan but was concerned that theyre moving as much as they are.

But I dont think theyre going to do anything more [than] they are, he told reporters at the Delaware Air National Guard Base.

The Eastern Theater Command of Chinas PLA conducts a long-range live-fire drill into the Taiwan Strait, from an undisclosed location, Aug. 4, 2022. Credit: PLA Eastern Theater Command Handout via REUTERS

US keeping watch

Kahl also explained the reason behind the Pentagons initial hesitance about Pelosis visit to Taiwan last week. Biden told reporters 10 days before the trip that U.S. military officials believed it's not a good idea, for now."

We're at a moment of profound international tension," Kahl said. "I think there was a sense that  the world didn't require another instance of rising tensions but it is what it is and the speaker had every right to go and when she made the final decision we were fully supportive."

Beijing reacted angrily to the visit, threatening the strongest countermeasures and announcing unprecedented military drills around Taiwan.

For the first time, the PLA reportedly fired missiles over Taiwans main island, some of which landed in Japans exclusive economic zone within 200 nautical miles (370 kilometers) from its shores.

The U.S. military responded by deploying warships and aircraft in the area.

U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan and its strike group has been in northern Philippine Sea after being ordered by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to remain on station in the general area to monitor the situation.

A big deck amphibious assault ship, the USS Tripoli, is also currently in the Philippine Sea, according to the U.S. Naval Institute.

Maps showing the USS Howard O. Lorenzens position and path. Credit: Marine Traffic

Data provided by the ship tracking website Marine Traffic show that the missile-tracking vessel USNS Howard O. Lorenzen has been operating in the waters east of Taiwan for several days.

Equipped with a sophisticated radar system, its purpose is to track airborne missiles, said Gordon Arthur, a military analyst and Asia-Pacific editor of Shephard Media, a defense news portal.

Given its proximity to Taiwan, I'd say that's exactly what it's been doing, Arthur told RFA.

Visiting US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi waves to journalists during her arrival at the Parliament in Taipei on Aug. 3, 2022. Credit: AFP





This story has been updated to edit the headline and text.
The anniversary comes weeks after the execution of movement leader Ko Jimmy.

Protesters demonstrate against the military junta as they march through a market in Salingyi township, Sagaing region, Myanmar, Aug. 8, 2022.

Myanmars shadow National Unity Government (NUG) and activists marked the anniversary of the uprising against former Gen. Ne Win on Monday with protests calling for an end to junta rule and a vow to fight until their goal of a federal democracy is achieved.

The People Power Uprising, also known as the 8888 Uprising, was a series of nationwide protests, marches, and riots led by university students against the Ne Win regime, key events of which took place on Aug. 8, 1988. Authorities crushed the movement in mid-September that year.

On Monday, the NUG observed the anniversary of the uprising in a ceremony hosted online in which shadow Prime Minister Mahn Win Khaing Than condemned Myanmars successive military dictators for their brutal oppression of the countrys democracy activists. He vowed to channel the spirit of the 4-Eights in supporting the peoples fight against the current regime, which seized power in a Feb. 1, 2021 coup, and to form a federal union in Myanmar based on democracy and the protection of human rights.

This years anniversary held special significance for the opposition as it came just weeks after the junta put to death 8888 Uprising leader Ko Jimmy and three other democracy activists in the countrys first judicial executions in more than 30 years. The executions prompted protests in Myanmar and condemnation abroad.

In addition to the NUG ceremony, activists held protests in Myanmars commercial capital Yangon, the embattled region of Sagaing, and in Laiza, the capital of the ethnic Kachin Independence Organization-controlled territory in Kachin state.

Anti-junta groups in Yangon held anti-junta flash protests in the morning and carried out pot-banging activities in the evening, sources told RFA Burmese.

Nang Lin, a member of the Yangon Anti-Dictatorship Force, described the 8888 Uprising as a powerful movement  that involved people from all walks of life working together to bring down [a] terrible one-party dictatorship and allowed democracy to flourish.

Now, we will continue to carry the banner of this uprising, he said.

We will hold the spirit of that uprising and carry on its work, with determination, to achieve federal democracy, which is the goal of successive revolutions and the goal of this ongoing spring revolution.

Jewel, a member of the Pazundaung and Botahtaung Townships Young People's Strike Committee in Yangon, told RFA that she and her comrades would continue to carry out the unfinished task of the 8888 democracy movement and root out the military dictatorship.

The 4-Eights Uprising was over a long time ago. However, as members of a younger generation, well continue its unfinished work and are determined to eradicate this military dictatorship, she said.

In Sagaing, the region in which the junta has encountered some of the strongest armed resistance to its rule since the coup, more than 200 residents of Yinmarbin and Salingyi townships joined together and staged a multi-village protest, carrying signs that vowed to fight to the end to overthrow the military dictator.

Villagers in Sagaings Kani and Budalin townships also held protests to commemorate the 8888 Uprising.

The All Burma Students Democratic Front (ABSDF), which is headquartered near Laiza, in northern Myanmars Kachin state, also held a 34th anniversary event on Monday.

A member of the ABSDF Northern Military Region Committee who gave his name as Joshua told RFA that the people of Myanmar can expect more coups in the future unless the military dictatorship is uprooted.

We are holding this ceremony as a way of passing on the torch of the 8888 spirit, what the 8888 had wanted and fought for, so that all the young and old can remember why the 8888 Uprising came to be, he said.

As long as there are military dictators, they will seize power  if they cannot get what they want. They will seize power again in the future if we cannot fight them off for good.

Joshua said that the ABSDF has been fighting successive military dictators with whatever weapons we could lay our hands on and that more than 700 of its members had died in the more than three decades since 1988.

In a statement to mark Mondays anniversary, the ABSDF warned that the political, economic, education, and health sectors of Myanmar are in the midst of serious deterioration, while all three branches of government in the country have collapsed.

Protesters give a three-finger salute signaling their opposition to the junta at a rally in Sagaing region, Aug. 8, 2022. Credit: Citizen journalist Impetus for success

Attempts to reach junta Deputy Minister of Information Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment went unanswered Monday.

Myanmar political analyst Than Soe Naing told RFA that if the people of Myanmar hope to succeed in their current democratic struggle, they must not forget the 8888 Uprising.

It's time to make up for the weaknesses of 88 and push for victory in this Spring Revolution, he said, adding that the movement should use the movements goals as an impetus for success.

Ye Naing Aung, a member of the 88 Generation group of students who led the uprising, told RFA that he believes the people of Myanmar will one day achieve the democracy they desire.

As long as people have an expectation for a better system, we cant move backwards, he said.

Even though the change is not here yet, it will take place at some point. Im absolutely certain that they will enjoy a democratic system.

While authorities claim that only around 350 people were killed in the military crackdown on the 8888 Uprising, rights groups say the death toll is at least 3,000.

Security forces have killed at least 2,167 people and arrested more than 15,000 since last years coup, mostly during peaceful anti-junta protests, according to the Bangkok-based Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

Translated by Khin Maung Nyane. Written in English by Joshua Lipes.
The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) clashed with junta forces 259 times last month in Myanmar's Kayin and Mon states, according to a statement released Tuesday by the Karen National Union (KNU). The fighting led to the deaths of 12 KNLA troops and 19 civilians. The KNU said 386 junta troops and Border Guard Force (BGF) members were killed and 280 injured.

RFA could not independently confirm the number of battles or casualties and calls to the Military Councils Spokesman by RFA went unanswered.

Fighting intensified last month as KNLA troops joined forces with the Karen National Defense Organization (KNDO) to attack junta troops and BGF members in KNU-controlled areas in Kayin and Mon states.

KNDO Special Commando Officer, Capt. Sa Lone told RFA the Military Council is still carrying out ground operations and air raids.

Now the fighting will intensify, he said. The Military Council does not dare to move forward. They will face casualties if they move forward. The junta offensive is still there. The Military Council uses not only manpower, but also heavy artillery and aircraft. They do not give up and we have to stand on the side of the people and continue.

The KNU said along with the 19 dead locals, 26 people were injured and 44 homes and religious buildings were damaged due to heavy artillery shelling and landmines. Some 49 people from Thaton district in Mon state, controlled by KNU Brigade 1, were arrested for providing information and support to the KNU.

The statement also claimed more than 150,000 locals fled in search of safety due to junta attacks in the 18 months since the Feb. 2021 coup.

Military Council Spokesman Gen. Saw Min Ton has denied KNU statements in the past, saying the military does not target civilians.

An Aug. 3 statement by the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said 346,000 people fled their homes due to internal conflicts in Myanmar before Feb. 1 last year. It said 866,000 became internally displaced persons since the coup as of July 25 this year.
Duong Van Minh followers were ordered to take down altars and surrender items used for worship.

A Duong Van Minh altar is shown (L) in an Aug. 2, 2022 photo, with the altar replaced (R) on Aug. 6 with a photo of late Vietnamese president Ho Chi Minh.

Police in northern Vietnam this month raided eight centers of an ethnic religious group described by authorities as an illegal separatist organization, a charge the group denies, sources say.

On Aug. 2, public security officers and police armed with guns and shock batons raided separate locations of the Duong Van Minh religious group in the Bao Lam district of Cao Bang province, sources told RFA.

The local authorities came at 3:00 a.m. when people were still sleeping, said one witness to the raids, speaking on condition of anonymity for security reasons. They gathered at the houses that keep funeral and ritual objects and demolished them.

We were given no notice that the raids would take place, he said. By early morning, all local establishments of the group had been destroyed, he added.

Authorities then ordered followers of the Duong Van Minh religion to take down altars kept in their homes for family use and to surrender any items used for worship, saying police would use force to confiscate any objects not handed over, local sources said.

Almost all families were determined to protect their houses and altars and did not let authorities representatives inside, one follower said, also declining to be named because of safety concerns.

Some asked the officials whether they had any documents allowing them to come in or orders telling them to demolish the houses. The police responded that they had confidential documents and orders but were not allowed to let local people see them, he said.

Police then broke down the doors of the families homes, destroyed altars and hung pictures of former Vietnamese president Ho Chi Minh in their place. Vietnamese flags were also placed at the houses front doors, sources said.

Calls seeking comment from the Peoples Committees of Cao Bang province and Bao Lam district rang unanswered this week.

The Duong Van Minh sect was founded in 1989 with the stated goal of promoting the elimination of outdated, expensive and unhygienic funeral customs. There are are at least 8,000 ethnic Hmong practitioners of the religion in four provinces in Vietnams northern mountains.

The religion is not officially registered, and government authorities say the sect is conspiring to establish an independent Hmong state and break away from Vietnam, a charge the group denies.

Police have been working for the past year to eliminate the sect, according to state media reports, and an Aug. 9 article published on the website of the Cao Bang Broadcasting Station said that Bao Lam district authorities were now fully mobilized to suppress the religion.

Largest campaign to date

Speaking to RFA, Vu Quoc Dungexecutive director of VETO!, which monitors religious freedom in Vietnamcalled the August raids the largest campaign carried out against the Duong Van Minh religion to date.

It was a systematic campaign, as it mobilized all agencies and associated unions as participants, he said.

And the government this time applied the same measures in different places, such as forcing locals to sign a commitment to leave the religion, removing altars, banning worship gatherings on Sundays and burning or demolishing the Duong Van Minh religions funeral houses.

Dung said the campaign to eliminate the Duong Van Minh religion is being directed by leaders at all levels of the Communist Party of Vietnam, and the crackdown has now been conducted across four northern provinces, affecting around 10,000 followers.

Followers of the religion say they are determined to protect their beliefs, however.

There was widespread discontent among followers after authorities broke into their houses without showing any legal documents or orders, and many are saying that local authorities have broken the law by doing this, one Duong Van Minh follower told RFA. Many now plan to reinstall their altars and file complaints against those acts.

Vietnams government strictly controls religious practice in the one-party communist country, requiring practitioners to join state-approved temples and churches and suppressing independent groups.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom in a report released April 25 recommended that the U.S. government place Vietnam on a list of countries of particular concern because of Vietnamese authorities persistent violations of religious freedom.

Translated by Anna Vu for RFA Vietnamese. Written in English by Richard Finney.
People familiar with the case are not confident Y Wo Nie's sentence will be reduced.

The People's Court of Vietnams Dak Lak province will hold an appeal hearing on the case of local religious freedom activist Y Wo Nie (also known as Ama Quynh) on August 16.

The 52-year-old, from the Ede ethnic minority, was a deacon of the Evangelical Church of Vietnam. He was sentenced to four years in prison by the People's Court of Cu Kuin district on May 20 this year.

Nie was charged with "abusing freedoms and democracy to infringe upon the interests of the state, the lawful rights and interests of organizations and individuals, as stated in Clause 2, Article 331 of the Criminal Code.

He is alleged to have taken pictures of three handwritten human rights reports and sent them to international organizations and also met with U.S. diplomats.

Nie did not have a defense lawyer at his trial but in the upcoming appeal session, Nguyen Van Mieng will defend him.

Mieng wrote on his Facebook page that Dak Lak provinces Department of Information & Communication made the initial assessment on Y Wo Nie, despite Vietnams commitment to international conventions on human rights.

Contacting him at the Dak Lak provincial Police Departments Detention Center, he was always cheerful, Mieng said. He always prayed day and night for the peace of the Church and his family. He extended his thanks to all the diplomatic missions, organizations and individuals concerned with his case.

The indictment against Nie states that he wrote three reports, took pictures and sent them via WhatsApp to a number of overseas organizations.

The first report was on the religious and human rights situation of the Ede ethnic people in the Central Highlands and the second concerned violations of the right to religious freedom, which he sent to the U.N. Human Rights Committee and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).

The third report was titled "On the situation of religious freedom in general and in particular for ethnic people in the Central Highlands."

The indictment also shows that Nie met with representatives of Ho Chi Minh City's U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Gia Lai province in June 2020.



Dak Lak-based human rights activist Vo Ngoc Luc, who monitored the original trial, told RFA:

In my opinion, legally, all of these things are not wrong and do not violate the law. It is normal for some activists here to meet with consular offices.

As for taking human rights classes online, any form of learning is good. When people learn to know more about the law, that's a good thing, not a crime.

As for the accusation of sending pictures, if the information is said to be distorted, there must be an evaluation to prove that they are fake images to slander and misrepresent. On the other hand, there was no conclusion and that proves the pictures he gave are real, all of which shows that he did nothing wrong.

Talking about the upcoming appeal, Luc said that in political cases it is very rare to have sentences reduced. However, he said that if the verdict is upheld, it would adversely affect diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the United States.

RFA has emailed the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi and the USCIRF to request comment on the case but has yet to receive responses.

Nie was arrested in September 2021 and his actions were alleged to have "affected the political security situation, social order and safety, and the normal operation of state administrative agencies, and reduced the public's confidence in the regime, and affected the image of the State of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam as well as the prestige of the Communist Party of Vietnam in international diplomatic relations.

Nie was previously sentenced to nine years in prison for undermining the unity policy, a ruling often used to imprison religious freedom activists among the many ethnic minorities in Vietnams Central Highlands and northern mountainous areas.

Around two hundred thousand Ede Montagnard live in the Central Highlands, according to the non-profit organization The Peoples of the World Foundation, living mainly in Dak Lak province. Most Ede are Protestant Christians. Montagnard is a collective term for the ethnic minorities living in the mountainous region.

A recent report on religious freedom from the USCIRF criticized the Vietnamese government's crackdown on Montagnard religious groups in the Central Highlands.
A Bulgarian court has ordered the extradition of a Russian man accused at home of large-scale tax evasion in a case complicated by the suspect's burning of his Russian passport during an antiwar protest in the Black Sea resort of Varna.

The suspect, 46-year-old Aleksei Alchin, has argued that Russian authorities are persecuting him for his political leanings and criticism of Russia's war on Ukraine.

Alchin says he has been living in Bulgaria for five years.

He was declared a fugitive by Russian prosecutors in April 2018 following an investigation into alleged tax evasion.

He took part in a protest in Bulgaria two days after the large-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine began on February 24 in which he demonstratively burned his Russian passport.

Months later, Bulgarian authorities were notified by Russian officials that Alchin was the target of an international manhunt and a formal extradition request followed.

He was detained by Bulgarian authorities last week and his extradition case was heard on August 8 by a district court in Varna, in eastern Bulgaria.

Alchin's wife, friends, and others protested outside the court for his release.

But the court ruled that the tax-evasion charges against him were of a sufficient magnitude to warrant his extradition.

Through its press service, the Bulgarian court also cited an assurance from a Russian deputy prosecutor-general, Pyotr Gorodov, that Alchin won't be tortured or otherwise abused and that he will be allowed counsel.

Russia's heavily prosecutor-friendly legal system leads to convictions in around 99 percent of all cases, and allegations are widespread of detainee and inmate abuse.

The Varna court also cited a guarantee by Russian prosecutors that Alchin will only be investigated for tax evasion and that, if he is convicted, he will be allowed to leave Russia after serving any possible sentence.

Alchin can appeal the first-instance ruling within seven days.

It is unclear what sort of leverage officials in Bulgaria -- a NATO and EU member whose relations with Moscow have markedly worsened since Russia's military invaded Ukraine -- might have if Russian authorities abandon their pledges concerning Alchin.

Alchin requested political asylum in Bulgaria only after being detained in connection with the extradition request, which prosecutors said hurt his chances of success.

Russian authorities have sought him internationally since February 2020.

Alchin has described past employment in Russia that includes work for a State Duma committee that he says he left "due to the high level of corruption in the system."

He said he fled Russia after being warned that his metals company had attracted interest from elites and he might be accused of tax crimes.

He also said he'd never received any subpoenas, as lawyers he approached before fleeing came under "pressure" and refused to represent his interests.
TASHKENT -- Uzbekistan and Switzerland have agreed on the return by Swiss authorities of $131 million in assets seized during criminal proceedings against Gulnara Karimova, the daughter of longtime Uzbek President Islam Karimov.

The Uzbek Justice Ministry said on August 16 that Minister Ruslanbek Davletov and Swiss President Ignazio Cassis signed an agreement in Bern to place the confiscated assets for a UN fund for sustainable development in Central Asia's most populous nation of 35 million.

The breakthrough is one of a handful of efforts by Tashkent to agree on the return of some $1 billion in illicit funds, in some cases slowed by foreign authorities' desire to ensure transparency in the funds' return to public coffers.

"The fund will allow the returned assets to be used for the benefit of the population of Uzbekistan," Cassis said at the signing ceremony.

Switzerland froze around 800 million Swiss francs ($842 million) in 2012 in connection with criminal proceedings against Karimova, a pop diva and businesswoman who had a public falling-out with her late father and is currently in an Uzbek prison on embezzlement and criminal conspiracy charges.

The Uzbek Justice Ministry said in February that it was working with authorities in Switzerland, the United States, France, Russia, and several other nations on the return of Karimova's assets that it said were "earned through criminal activities."

The ministry said at the time that Uzbek and Swiss authorities had agreed to create a multiparty trust fund with the United Nations to work on the return of assets that were confiscated under a court decision as part of the probe against Karimova.

It said that assets worth about $131 million and confiscated in 2019 were ready to be transferred to Uzbekistan.

In 2020, the Swiss government said a nonbinding framework agreement signed between Switzerland and Uzbekistan meant any returned assets "shall be used for the benefit of the people of Uzbekistan."

Tashkent has sought over $1 billion from foreign jurisdictions since announcing Karimova's imprisonment in 2017.

Once seen as a possible successor to her father, Karimova was placed under house arrest in Tashkent in 2014 while he was still alive and running the country. Karimov died in 2016 and Shavkat Mirziyoev succeeded him soon afterward.

Criminal investigators in Switzerland, the United States, Sweden, and the Netherlands have linked Karimova to a massive, years-long bribery scheme that revolved mainly around foreign telecommunications companies gaining access to the Uzbek market.

In December 2017, Karimova was sentenced to a 10-year prison term but the sentence was later commuted to house arrest for five years. She was detained in March 2019 for allegedly violating the terms of her house arrest.

In February 2020, Karimova sent a letter to Mirziyoev offering to return $686 million to the country's treasury in exchange for the dismissal of the court case against her at home.

But a month later she received an additional 13-year sentence after being found guilty of extortion, money laundering, and other crimes.
Citing increased drug trafficking and other illegal cross-border activities, Russian border guards controlling Armenias frontier with Iran have set up checkpoints along several roads in the countrys southern Syunik Province.

Images of the checkpoints along the road linking Meghri to other towns appeared on the Internet earlier this week, raising speculation about possible preparations for the opening of transit routes for Azerbaijan via the strategic mountainous region.



Syunik is the Armenian province through which Azerbaijan expects to get a highway and railroad connection with its western exclave of Nakhichevan under the terms of the Russia-brokered 2020 cease-fire in Nagorno-Karabakh. Under the terms of that arrangement, Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) is to ensure the security of traffic along transport routes in Armenia for Azerbaijan.



Yerevan insists that it should maintain sovereignty over the roads, while Baku is seeking an extraterritorial status for them amounting to a corridor similar to the Russian-controlled Lachin corridor that connects Armenia with Nagorno-Karabakh.

At a government session on August 4, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian again implicitly rejected the corridor logic for the unblocking of regional transport routes, saying that Azerbaijan even today can use all parts of Armenia, not only Syunik, for transit purposes in accordance with Armenian legislation.



We have been saying all the while that we are ready to provide this connection between the western districts of Azerbaijan and Nakhichevan. We are ready to ensure this connection even today, but it is Azerbaijan that does not use these opportunities offered by us, Pashinian said.



Pashinian spoke after the latest escalation in Nagorno-Karabakh in which at least two Armenian soldiers and one Azerbaijani soldier were killed in fresh fighting near the Lachin corridor where Russian peacekeepers are deployed under the terms of the 2020 cease-fire.



Amid the escalation, ethnic Armenian authorities in Nagorno-Karabakh announced that several Armenian villages along the current corridor would be evacuated until September when Armenians are to start using an alternative road connecting Armenia and the Armenian-populated region.



Bagrat Zakarian, the mayor of Meghri, told RFE/RLs Armenian Service on August 9 that the Russian checkpoints recently spotted in Syunik were actually set up several months ago. In total, he said, five such checkpoints were placed at roads leading from Meghri to several towns and villages in Syunik.



After media reports about the installation of new Russian checkpoints near Meghri, the FSB Border Guards Department in Armenia explained that it was done in coordination with Armenian authorities to prevent smuggling, illegal migration, and other offenses.



According to the FSB, a tense situation has been observed recently at the Meghri section of the Armenian-Iranian state border due to increased attempts to smuggle drugs from Iran to Armenia. Violations of the border by representatives of extremist and terrorist groups were also recorded.



Armenian government officials have not yet commented on the presence of Russian checkpoints along the roads in Syunik.



Meghris mayor acknowledged that the checkpoints create certain problems for local tourism.



Tourists have to go through passport control procedures before they can visit several rural areas here, Zakarian said.

With reporting by Artak Khulian
Two years after the August 2020 presidential election in Belarus that was widely seen as rigged, exiled opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya conceded that the opponents of strongman ruler Alyaksandr Lukashenka "underestimated the cruelty of the regime" and "its readiness to cling to power by any means possible." Lukashenka brutally cracked down on the mass protests that erupted after the vote. Tsikhanouskaya spoke with Aleh Anufryienka of Current Time in an interview in the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) says Russia's "spurious" new charge against opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza is "a thinly veiled threat to the Russian public not to engage in dissent," as authorities there accelerate their long-running clampdown amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Kara-Murza's lawyer announced last week that his client had been charged with carrying out activities of an "undesirable" organization.

HRW demanded in an August 8 statement that Russian officials drop all charges against Kara-Murza and repeal the "abusive" law that underpins the latest accusation.

"It is now a pattern for the Kremlin to throw its critics behind bars on spurious charges and then continue to add new bogus charges against them to keep them there," HRW quoted its Europe and Central Asia director, Hugh Williamson, as saying. "The new charge against Kara-Murza is a blatant attempt to instill more fear among Russias civil society and deter it from mobilizing against the Kremlin and its war against Ukraine."

A longtime Kremlin-critic who has survived at least two apparent poisonings, Kara-Murza was already in jail after he was arrested in April for allegedly spreading false information about the Russian Army's activities in Ukraine.

On August 9, a Moscow court extended his detention until October 12, Interfax reported quoting the court's press service, on a charge of deliberately disseminating false information in a speech on March 15 to Arizona lawmakers.

According to his lawyer Vadim Prokhorov, Kara-Murza is now charged with holding a Moscow conference in October to support Russian political prisoners that was sponsored by the foreign-based Free Russia Foundation. That group has been recognized as "undesirable" in the country.

The new charge carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison, according to HRW.

"The fake charges against Kara-Murza are purely politically motivated, and he should be immediately and unconditionally released, as should the many other Russians prosecuted on outrageous 'fake news,' 'undesirable,' and similar charges," Williamson said. "The Russian authorities need to stop misusing and manipulating the justice system in their desperate efforts to stomp out dissent and opposition."

The "undesirable organization" law, adopted in 2015, was part of a series of regulations pushed by the Kremlin that squeezed many nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations that received funding from foreign sources -- mainly from Europe and the United States.

Russian lawmakers have since dramatically widened the scope of the law, including to bar Russian nationals and organizations anywhere in the world from taking part in activities of such "undesirable" groups.

A close associate of slain opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, Kara-Murza fell deathly ill on two separate occasions in Moscow -- in 2015 and 2017-- with symptoms consistent with poisoning.

Tissue samples smuggled out of Russia by his relatives were turned over to the FBI, which investigated his case as one of "intentional poisoning."
The European Union says that the United States and Iran are likely to respond "very quickly" to a "final text" that has emerged to revive a crippled nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers.

EU foreign policy chief and negotiations coordinator Josep Borrell said on August 8 that the 25-page draft had been delivered to the capitals involved for decisions on acceptance.



"We have a final text. So it's the moment for a decision: yes or no. And we expect all participants to take this decision very quickly," Peter Stano, Borrell's spokesman, told reporters on August 9.



"There is no more space for negotiations," Stano said.



A State Department spokesman has said that the United States is ready to "quickly conclude a deal" to revive the 2015 agreement based on the EU proposals.



The spokesman said Washington will wait to see if Tehran's "actions match their words" following repeated signals that Iranian officials might endorse the deal.



Iran has said it is considering the draft amid "more comprehensive discussions in Tehran."



Enrique Mora, the European Unions top negotiator, has said he's absolutely optimistic about the talks progress.



Iran struck the Joint Comprehensive Plan Of Action (JCPOA) in 2015 with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia, and China. The deal saw Iran agree to limit its enrichment of uranium under the watch of UN inspectors in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions.



Washington unilaterally withdrew from the nuclear pact under then-President Donald Trump in 2018. Iran reacted by gradually backtracking on its obligations under the deal, such as uranium enrichment.



Negotiators from Iran, Russia, and the EU -- as well as the United States, indirectly -- resumed talks over Tehrans nuclear deal on August 4 after a monthslong standstill in negotiations.

Based on reporting by Reuters
A group of 70 political and civil activists, university professors, artists, and human rights activists from Ian and abroad have condemned in a joint statement the Islamic Republic's treatment of the Baha'i community following a spike in restrictions and pressure on its members.

"The arbitrary suppression and arrest of Baha'i citizens in various cities has intensified in recent days as more Baha'i students have been deprived of education," the signatories said.



"These crimes are part of the chain of tyranny and the attempt to destroy and eliminate religious minorities and dissidents."



Baha'is -- who number some 300,000 in Iran and have an estimated 5 million followers worldwide -- say they face systematic persecution in Iran, where their faith is not officially recognized in the constitution.



Iranian security forces have arrested dozens of Baha'i followers in recent weeks and raided the homes of hundreds of others.

Among the signatories of the statement are Nobel Peace Prize winner Shirin Ebadi and Iranian-American movie star Shohreh Aghdashloo.



Since the Islamic Republic of Iran was established in 1979, hundreds of Baha'is have been arrested and jailed for their beliefs. At least 200 have been executed or were arrested and never heard from again.



Thousands more have been banned from receiving higher education or had their property confiscated, while vandals often desecrate Baha'i cemeteries.



The statement said the ruling autocratic ideology of Iran is the result of religious apartheid, which has deprived millions of Baha'is of their civil rights because of their religious beliefs.



Iran' Ministry of Intelligence accused a number of Baha'is who were arrested recently that they are "directly connected with the Zionist center known as Bayt al-Adl located in occupied Palestine."



Bayt al-Adl (The Universal House of Justice), located in Haifa, is the nine-member supreme ruling body of the Baha'i Faith.



Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has on several occasions called the Baha'i faith a cult and issued a religious fatwa in 2018 forbidding contact, including business dealings, with followers of the faith.

Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda
Russia has been "reinforcing defenses" in southern Ukraine while keeping up attacks on Ukrainian positions in the eastern Donetsk region but has only managed to advance about 10 kilometers in the past month on its "most successful axis" there, according to U.K. military intelligence.

In its latest regular assessment, on August 9, British Defense Intelligence said Russian forces had not advanced more than three kilometers elsewhere in Donetsk, one of the two eastern regions where Russia-backed separatists have held large swaths of territory for the past eight years.

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's ongoing invasion, how Kyiv is fighting back, Western military aid, global reaction, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war, click here.

Such a pace is "almost certainly significantly less than planned," the intelligence added.

"Despite its continued heavy use of artillery in these areas, Russia has not been able to generate capable combat infantry in sufficient numbers to secure more substantial advances," it said.

British intelligence previously warned on August 8 that Russia was using anti-personnel mines in an effort to defend and hold its defense lines, with resulting risks to both the military and local civilian populations.

The Ukrainian Army's General Staff said early on August 9 that a Russian offensive is continuing toward the hub cities of Bakhmut and Avdiyivka in the eastern Donetsk region as the enemy tries to inflict "maximum losses" on Ukrainian forces.

It said the Russian Air Force was bombarding military facilities in the direction of Donetsk in support of artillery and other ground operations aimed at dislodging Ukrainian units from the front lines.

Battlefield reports from either side in the rapidly developing conflict are difficult to confirm.

But Kyiv's military planners said their forces had repelled reconnaissance and offensive operations in a handful of settlements around Ivano-Daryivka, Bakhmut, and Zaytseve.

They said Russian forces had withdrawn after unsuccessful pushes around Avdiyivka and Krasnohorivka.

WATCH: German-Built Howitzers Pound Russian Targets In Ukraine

Kyiv said two Russian warships armed with Kalibr cruise missiles are poised for battle off Ukraine's Black Sea coast.

Meanwhile, international concern persisted over the weekend shelling of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant over potential for disaster at Europe's largest atomic facility.

The head of the Ukrainian nuclear power company Enerhoatom has urged that Zaporizhzhya be declared a military-free zone to avoid nuclear catastrophe.

Zaporizhzhya was seized early in the five-month-old invasion but continues to be manned by Ukrainian staff.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that "any attack to a nuclear plant is a suicidal thing" in calling on August 8 for international inspectors to be given access to Zaporizhzhya.

The Russian-installed head of the local administration was quoted by Interfax as saying on August 8 that the facility was operating "in normal mode."

Washington and the World Bank announced more support for Ukraine on the heels of U.S. President Joe Biden's committing this week to the single largest package of security assistance under his so-called drawdown authority with $1 billion in aid that includes long-range weapons and medical transport vehicles.

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) said on August 8 that Washington would provide $4.5 billion more in economic funding, nearly doubling the budgetary support so far since Russia's invasion began in February.

The World Bank said it will implement the U.S. grant, which it said is aimed at urgent needs including health-care, pensions, and social payments.

Also, Reuters cited a document in which Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, and the United Nations pledged to ensure a 10-nautical-mile buffer zone for ships exporting Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea.

The long-awaited procedures are part of intense international efforts to unblock millions of tons of grain stuck at Ukrainian ports since the invasion began.

With reporting by Reuters
"Of course, my current situation is exhausting -- physically, spiritually, and psychologically," said Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya in an exclusive interview with Current Time to mark two years since the 2020 Belarusian presidential election that she and her supporters believe she won. "Of course, you sometimes feel like letting go of some of the burden of responsibility. But you know that you can't do that."

Days after the fraud-marred election handed a sixth term to strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka, who has ruled the country since 1994, security agents forced Tsikhanouskaya out of the country. She has been living and working in Lithuania ever since, lobbying the international community not to recognize Lukashenka and becoming the global face of her country's democratic ambitions.

"We are a political organization, so we are conducting talks with politicians in various countries," she said of her Vilnius-based office. "We have one agenda -- the release of political prisoners [in Belarus], the holding of a new election, stopping the war [in Ukraine], and supporting Ukraine."

WATCH: Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya speaks to Current Time in Vilnius in an exclusive interview:

Lukashenka's government has abetted the massive Russian invasion of Ukraine, and Tsikhanouskaya believes that if Ukraine is able to repel the attack, the political backlash against the unpopular war in Belarus could be fatal for Lukashenka and the "enormous repressive machinery of his dictatorial regime."

"The results of that war will give Belarus and Belarusians a chance to move on to the next stage and to put the country on the tracks toward democracy," she told Current Time, the Russian-language network run by RFE/RL in cooperation with VOA.

WATCH: RFE/RL spent a day with Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya during a visit to the Council of Europe in Strasbourg on June 21.

While praising "the brave and remarkable partisans" in Belarus who are hindering the war effort and Belarusian volunteers in Ukraine who are "defending the honor" of both countries, Tsikhanouskaya said she understands the sense of guilt many Belarusians feel over the war, which she sees as "a consequence of our silence," which allowed Lukashenka to remain in power for decades.

During the 2020 presidential election campaign, Tsikhanouskaya -- a teacher and translator with no political experience -- was unexpectedly thrust to the forefront of Belarus's democratic opposition. When her husband, popular blogger Syarhey Tsikhanouski, was barred from running for president and subsequently arrested, Tsikhanouskaya took over his campaign.

WATCH: This film, produced by RFE/RL's Current Time, chronicles the events during and after the disputed presidential election in Belarus in August 2020. The film exclusively uses footage shot by participants or eyewitnesses of the protests.

Later, all the main opposition campaigns rallied around her candidacy to form an unprecedented alliance that seemed to offer Belarusians real hope of peaceful change after more than a quarter-century under Lukashenka's authoritarian rule.

When the official election results showed Lukashenka with more than 80 percent of the vote, hundreds of thousands of Belarusians across the country took to the streets, only to be met by a vicious response from the security forces. Thousands of people were beaten, detained, and tortured. Journalists, activists, and others were arrested.

Gradually, the protests died down under the government's onslaught, and Lukashenka has maintained power without making any compromises to the opposition.

"In 2020, everyone thought that the moment was about to arrive when the government would collapse because it was, of course, impossible to ignore so many people who were protesting and fighting," Tsikhanouskaya said. "But it seems we underestimated the regime's cruelty and their willingness to cling to power by any means. But it was obvious to everyone that no one wanted to live under that regime anymore."

In December 2021, Syarhey Tskikhanouski was sentenced to 18 years in prison for purportedly advocating the violent overthrow of the government. Tsikhanouskaya said she has not heard from him since he was transferred to prison after his trial.

WATCH: Who Is Syarhey Tsikhanouski And Why Is Belarus Jailing Him For 18 Years? (Originally published December 15, 2021.)

"The children recently sent him their first letters since he was moved to the prison," she said. "Now we will wait for an answer. Soon it will be Syarhey's birthday.

"I really hope that people, especially Belarusians who have left the country and are a little freer, will send an avalanche of letters," she added. "When he was in custody during his trialhe wasn't given his letters. I know that people are writing, writing a lot, but the letters aren't delivered."

Tsikhanouskaya said her office continues to work with the now-enlarged Belarusian diaspora to "reorganize and coordinate them so that they work not just for themselves but for Belarus, for Belarusians. So that their activity would give a little more energy to people who remain in the country. So that no one is forgotten."

"We are trying," she added. "Maybe in just little steps and not the way that we ourselves would like to do it, but we are trying to do something. But we are quite restricted. We are not physically in Belarus. We are not in power there, and we don't control the police. But we are trying to do what we can."

She added that she hears criticism sometimes that she isn't doing enough or that she is "sleeping."

"But despite this, you continue working," she insisted. "Yes, you can't do everything. You can't go there and throw open the prison doors. There is a lot you can't do under such restricted circumstances. But you just keep doing your work."

RFE/RL correspondent Robert Coalson contributed to this report.
Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu has called on Armenia to "refrain from new provocations" several days after Yerevan and Baku traded accusations over an escalation of violence in Nagorno-Karabakh that left at least three people dead.

Speaking at a gathering of Turkish diplomats in Ankara on August 8, Cavusoglu reiterated his countrys vision of peace in the South Caucasus region.

"Since the end of the war, Turkey continues to make efforts to ensure peace in the region," Cavusoglu said, alluding to the deadly six-week war between Azerbaijan and Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding areas that ended with a Moscow-brokered cease-fire in November 2020.

Backed by Turkey, an archfoe of Armenia, Azerbaijan gained control of swathes of territory that had been controlled by ethnic Armenians since the former Soviet republics fought a war over Nagorno-Karabakh in the 1990s.

"Now we are talking not about Azerbaijan's occupied territories, displaced people, refugees, and a conflict that can start again at any moment, but about regional peace and cooperation," Cavusoglu said. "We again call on Armenia to refrain from participating in new provocations [against Azerbaijan in Karabakh]."

On August 3, ethnic Armenian authorities in Nagorno-Karabakh said that two Armenian soldiers were killed and nearly two dozen others wounded in what they described as an attack by Azerbaijani forces against their military positions along the Lachin corridor conducted with the use of drones, mortars, and grenade launchers.

The Lachin corridor connects Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh and is currently controlled by Russian peacekeepers under the terms of the 2020 cease-fire.

Baku, for its part, said the operation was in retaliation for the killing of one Azerbaijani soldier by ethnic Armenian forces in the area on August 1.

Azerbaijan also claimed to have captured some strategic heights in the mountainous region overlooking the Lachin corridor.

Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnic Armenian leader Arayik Harutiunian ordered a "partial mobilization" of army reservists in the wake of the incidents. However, the situation did not further escalate amid reported agreements that ethnic Armenians would be leaving several villages along the Lachin corridor that are to be handed over to Azerbaijan as part of the cease-fire agreement.

Despite what appears to be a deescalation of conflict in keeping with calls by Russia, the United States, and the European Union, the situation in and around Nagorno-Karabakh remains relatively tense as Armenians and Azerbaijanis continue to accuse each other of regular cease-fire violations.

Armenia said one of its soldiers was wounded along the border with Azerbaijan on August 6, a claim denied by Azerbaijan but confirmed by the Russian Defense Ministry in its latest news bulletin on the Nagorno-Karabakh peacekeeping operation.

Turkey, which is Azerbaijan's top military and political ally and has no diplomatic relations with Armenia, has been engaged in a normalization process with Yerevan since late last year.

Ankara, however, has made it clear that establishing diplomatic relations and opening borders with Armenia depends on Yerevan's acceptance of Baku's key demands.

Commenting on the prospect of normalizing Turkish-Armenian relations in July, Cavusoglu said that Yerevan should specifically negotiate a peace accord sought by Baku and open a land corridor to Azerbaijan's Nakhichevan exclave.

Azerbaijan and Armenia have been locked in a conflict over Azerbaijan's breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh for years.

Nagorno-Karabakh, which had been populated mainly by ethnic Armenians, declared independence from Azerbaijan amid a 1988-94 war that claimed an estimated 30,000 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands of people.

Internationally mediated negotiations with the involvement of the OSCE's so-called Minsk Group -- co-chaired by France, Russia, and the United States -- failed to result in a resolution before war broke out again in September 2020.

In the aftermath of the war that killed more than 6,500 people, Armenia agreed to hand over three districts ringing Nagorno-Karabakh that had been under Armenian control since the 1990s, including the Lachin corridor, and Russia deployed some 2,000 peacekeepers to oversee the truce.

With reporting by RFE/RL Armenian Service correspondent Armen Koloyan
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has been unable to secure a direct line with China's Xi Jinping since Russia invaded his country in February.

But that has not stopped Zelenskiy from calling on the Chinese president to use Beijing's political and economic influence over Moscow to help end the six-month war in Ukraine.

"I would like to talk directly. I had one conversation with Xi Jinping [a] year ago," Zelenskiy told the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post on August 4. "Since the beginning of the large-scale aggression on February 24, we have asked officially for a conversation, but we [haven't had] any conversation with China even though I believe that would be helpful."

China has proven to be Russia's most important partner since its invasion of Ukraine, with Beijing refusing to condemn Moscow's actions, including alleged war crimes. Beijing has also echoed the Kremlin's narrative that the war is a "special military operation" that was provoked by unchecked NATO expansion.

Despite this, Zelenskiy said he still believes that China could use its clout with Russia to push for a negotiated end to the war. "It's a very powerful state. It's a powerful economy.... So [it] can politically, economically influence Russia," he said. "And China is [also a] permanent member of the UN Security Council."

Zelenskiy's comments are part of a diplomatic strategy -- adopted by Kyiv since the beginning of the war -- that has so far failed to yield results. Analysts say that it highlights a disconnect between how the Ukrainian government sees China and the increasingly negative views within Ukraine's policy-expert community.

"If Zelenskiy is reaching out via Chinese media, then it means that the diplomatic channels are likely not working and perhaps could even be worse than how they [appear]," Yurii Poita of the Kyiv-based Center for Army, Conversion, and Disarmament Studies told RFE/RL. "The government's relations with Beijing are likely frozen and skepticism is rising in the [Ukrainian] expert community, where China is now mostly seen as offering tacit consent and even support for Russia's war."

China And The Ukraine War

Throughout the war, China has become a potent outlet for Russian disinformation and propaganda, with Beijing officials and state media adopting Moscow's justification for the invasion and often parroting false claims about events while ignoring commentary from Kyiv.

One of the few exceptions was an April 30 interview by the Chinese state news agency Xinhua with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. During the interview, Kuleba was given space to criticize Russia and urge China to play a larger role in bringing Moscow to the negotiating table by warning of the international fallout from continuing the war. "This war is not in line with China's interests. The global food crisis and economic problems...will pose a serious threat to the Chinese economy," he said.

Kuleba has held talks with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, over the course of the war and Xi has expressed concern over the growing human toll of the fighting. But Beijing has stopped short of criticizing Moscow and stayed consistent with its line that NATO -- and the United States in particular -- is to blame for provoking Russia into attacking its neighbor.

In early February, Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a "no limits" partnership between their two countries. While Beijing has carefully calibrated its outward support during the conflict, it has also supplied a financial lifeline to Russia through continued trade and provided diplomatic cover for Moscow at international bodies like the United Nations.

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry did not reply to RFE/RL's request for comments about Kyiv's China outreach.

Prior to the war, Ukraine looked to build strong economic ties with Beijing as it reoriented its economy away from Russia and looked to balance what it saw as an overreliance on the West for support. In 2013, Xi and then-President Viktor Yanukovych signed an agreement under which China would protect Ukraine in the event of a nuclear attack, a deal that has received new scrutiny following Russia's invasion.

Ties were strained in 2021 when Ukraine blocked Chinese investors from acquiring the Ukrainian aerospace company Motor Sich, reportedly due to lobbying from Washington, which wanted to block China from acquiring valuable military technologies from the Ukrainian firm.

An RFE/RL investigation that same year also found that Ukraine bowed to Chinese pressure to remove its name from an international statement about human rights abuses against Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in China's western Xinjiang region. Beijing had threatened to limit trade and withhold access to COVID-19 vaccines from Kyiv.

Poita, the Ukrainian analyst, says that despite Beijing's unwillingness so far to break from Moscow, some officials in Kyiv still believe that Ukraine's own China links could bear fruit. "Even with all the bilateral documents between Ukraine and China, it looks like this partnership has collapsed," Poita said. "Ukraine's best hope now is just that China does not provide military or other direct assistance to Russia."

Beijing And Moscow's Bonds

The war in Ukraine has also shifted how Beijing and Moscow see each other and the West, according to Bonny Lin and Jude Blanchette of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. In a recent article published in Foreign Affairs magazine, they argued that China could adopt a more aggressive foreign policy as a result of events in Ukraine.

"A final component of China's foreign-policy rethink concerns military force. Beijing believes that the West is incapable of understanding or sympathizing with what it views as legitimate Russian security concerns," Lin and Blanchette wrote. "There is no reason for China to assume that the United States and its allies will treat China's concerns any differently. Because diplomacy is not effective, China may need to use force to demonstrate its resolve."

China fired multiple missiles around Taiwan and began live-fire military exercises following an August 3 visit by U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi to the self-ruled island that Beijing claims as its own territory.

In response to the growing tensions, the Kremlin offered strong support to China and what it called its right to hold drills off the coast of Taiwan. Moscow also blamed Washington for fueling the crisis.

Research by the German Marshall Fund's Alliance for Securing Democracy found that Pelosi's trip became the focus of Russian propaganda. During a 48-hour time frame coinciding with her visit, Taiwan overtook Ukraine and became the second-most mentioned country by Russian officials and state media on Twitter, trailing only Russia.

"[Russian propaganda] used Pelosi's trip to paint the United States as an aggressive and reckless power and they framed China as a victim that was justified in safeguarding its interests," Joseph Bodnar, an analyst at the Alliance for Securing Democracy, told RFE/RL.

For Ukraine, the added tensions over Taiwan -- and between China and the United States -- point to a shrinking likelihood that Beijing is willing to use its influence to pressure Russia or take Ukrainian interests into consideration, Poita says.

"This growing competition means that Russia is too important for China to abandon for the time being," he said. "Perhaps it's time for Ukraine to have a broader discussion about China and destroy these illusions about it that still seem to exist."
Members of the 861st Engineer Support Company take a brief break from excavating stones by the World War I monument in West Warwick Veterans Memorial Park to pose for a photo on Sunday. The Rhode Island National Guard soldiers worked Saturday and Sunday on a walkway rehabilitation project there and will return in October to finish the job.
By Wang Yitao and Gao Rui

The exercises and training demonstrate the PLAs high combat spirit and robust fighting capacity, as well as its determination, approach and capacity to safeguard national unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, said a military expert about the PLA Eastern Theater Commands largest-scale ever live-fire joint exercises and training around the Taiwan island.

PLAs capacity to fight and win greatly enhanced

Major General Meng Xiangqing, professor at the PLA National Defense University said this round of realistic joint exercises and training has shown that the PLAs capacity to fight and win has been greatly enhanced.

First, it proved that the PLAs combined combat capacity with the support of an integrated military system has been significantly improved. The multi-service, multi-regional operations tested the Commands real combat capacities supported by an integrated system, including joint perception, joint command and control, joint assault, and joint support, all of which demonstrated the latest achievements in the national defense and military reform. This was the first time that the PLA carried out the joint sea and air exercises around the entire Taiwan Island. It was against a highly realistic scenario and fully reflected the massive improvement of the PLA troops joint combat capacity with integrated support, said Meng.

Second, it proved the PLAs capability of long-distance denial has been significantly improved. This was the first time that a shooting range was set on the eastern side of the Taiwan Island.

Third, it proved the PLAs precise attack capacity has been greatly enhanced. On August 4, several new-type long-range rocket launchers attached to the Army under the Eastern Theater Command carried out precision strikes on specific areas in the eastern Taiwan Strait. The Rocket Force troops under the Eastern Theater Command also launched various types of conventional missiles at multiple spots in the designated open waters off the eastern Taiwan Island.

According to Meng, the PLA forces were able to hit the targets precisely across airspace where Patriot missiles were densely deployed and under the watch of the US Aegis ship during their first cross-island live-fire shooting showed that they are now able to see clearly and hit precisely in the far sea. We have a strong conventional missile penetration capacity  we are not worried about the other sides interception because they cannot intercept or stop our missiles.

Fourth, it proved the PLAs capacity for multi-dimensional operations on the sea and for coordination and cooperation among theater commands has been largely tempered. The first deterrent exercises with an aircraft carrier task force have presented a multi-dimensional maritime combat system.

Troops participating in the latest exercises are mainly from the Eastern Theater Command, but troops from other theater commands also took part, indicating much better coordination and cooperation among different theater commands.

PLA troops demonstrating a high spirit and morale

Senior Captain Zhang Junshe, a researcher at the PLA Naval Research Academy, said the exercises and training demonstrated the PLAs will and style of combat, and showcased that all troops have a strong determination, firm will, and robust capacity to safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the region, and to smash all separatist attempts.

Some expert said the exercises and training are carried out in six areas around the Taiwan Island, featuring wide coverage, close proximity to the island, great intensity, and full elements. Such a besiegement of the island is paving the way for forming a strategic situation conducive to the final reunification.

At present, the one-China principle is a universal consensus in the international community, and upholding this principle is a basic norm in international relations. Chinas reunification is an unstoppable trend, and the Taiwan question is sure to be resolved with the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Zhang said Chinas basic principles of peaceful reunification and One Country, Two Systems remain unchanged. The Chinese mainland will make utmost efforts as long as there is one ray of hope for peaceful reunification.

The 1.4 billion Chinese people and the PLA will not tolerate any delusion by the Taiwan independence separatist forces and external interference. If the Taiwan independence forces dare to take a step, if external forces dare to escalate their provocations, they will meet with stronger countermeasures from us, said Maj. Gen. Meng Xiangqing, adding that any mistaken act against the historical trend to play the Taiwan card and endanger Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity is doomed to fail.
Leadership and listening

Donna Arnett sets course as universitys new provost

Growing up, new University of South Carolina Provost Donna Arnett wanted a career in health care. Initially, that meant becoming a doctor, but when her parents told her that was a reach financially  she was a first-generation college student and lived at home throughout her undergraduate career at the University of South Florida  she went for a degree in nursing.

It was the first right call in a series of right calls. Arnett spent five years as a nurse before embarking on a career in academia: a clinical research job at USF, followed by a masters in public health there; a Ph.D. in epidemiology at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill; a tenure track post, right out of grad school, in the Division of Epidemiology and Community Health at the University of Minnesota.

Epidemiology and biostatistics was really like a lightbulb, she says. Its how you put structure around formulating questions, design studies to answer them and statistically analyze them to know if they're important or not important. I fell in love with that.

It was a good fit, a chance to sharpen her analytical and problem-solving skills by applying the scientific process. It also helped her discover who she was as an academic.

I want to really understand the unique points of excellence at the University of South Carolina. I want to discover those gems. Donna Arnett

Because I was always a person who loved to ask questions and do research, it was a much better kind of professional career for me than probably medicine would have been, she says. I became a scientist.

But Arnett was also a leader and from an early age.

It's interesting  when I was a Brownie and a Girl Scout, I was always the group leader, she says. I never asked to be. I was just always appointed. And when I started my research, when I was an assistant professor, my first year, they put me in charge of a large study that had been ongoing for 20 years called the Minnesota Heart Survey.

The study, which involved surveying 11,000 people over a two-year period and conducting clinical exams on over 5,000 people in 44 clusters across the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, was a lesson in complex systems management. It also gave her the confidence to explore other leadership roles.

In 2004, she joined the University of Alabama Birmingham where she served as department chair and associate dean for academic and strategic programs. I loved being chair of an academic department because you really can shape not only the discipline, but you can shape the course of your facultys lives and your students lives, she says.

She would subsequently serve as president of the American Heart Association in 2012-13, and in 2016 she parlayed her considerable academic leadership experience into a new role as dean at the University of Kentucky College of Public Health.

But when the provost position opened at the University of South Carolina, the timing was perfect to take on an even bigger administrative role at a flagship public university.

I was very selective in where I interviewed, and I waited until President Amiridis was named before formally dropping my name into the pool because I want to be a partner, she says. I really believe in strong partnerships, and I think we can do good work together.

And what will that work look like? Her shortlist of priorities includes working with the universitys new vice president for research, Julius Fridriksson, to expand the universitys research enterprise, and working with incoming vice president for student affairs and academic affairs, J. Rex Tolliver, to improve student success.

She also plans to conduct an intensive 4-6 month listening tour of the Columbia campus, talking to faculty and deans, hearing their specific concerns but also discovering their strengths so she can build new networks and programs across disciplines.

I'm doing it in smaller groups so that I can actually have dialogue with faculty, she says. I want to really understand the unique points of excellence at the University of South Carolina. I want to discover those gems.

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Living birds have bodies substantially modified from the ancestral reptilian condition. The bird pelvis (hip bone) in particular experienced major changes during the transition from early archosaurs (dinosaurs plus crocodiles) to living birds. This stepwise transformation is well documented by an excellent fossil record; however, the developmental alterations that underly it are less well understood. In new research, scientists at Yale University used embryological imaging techniques to examine bird pelvic tissues in 3D, allowing direct comparison with the fossil record.

Every single bird, in its early life, possesses this dinosaurian form, said senior author Dr. Bhart-Anjan Bhullar, a researcher in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale University.

Then, at the last minute, its like it remembers its a bird and needs a birds pelvis.

In their study, Dr. Bhullar and colleagues looked at pelvic development in alligators, domestic chickens, Japanese quail, Chilean tinamou, and parakeets, and compared their developmental stages with those of dinosaurs, including Archaeopteryx.

They labeled embryonic pelvis with antibodies to look for proteins that are expressed in developing cartilage, connective tissue, skeletal muscles, and nerves.

The researchers then created 3D images for the pelvis, muscles, and nerves with confocal microscopes and CT scanning.

They found that the bird pelvis is an example of terminal addition, a biological mechanism in which ancestral features appear in an animal until late in its development.

This was a surprise, because many important features in the dinosaur-to-bird transition, such as the birds beak, are seen early in a birds embryonic development, said first author Dr. Christopher Griffin, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences and the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale University, and in the Department of Geosciences at Virginia Tech.

It was unexpected to find these initial stages of bird development look so much like the pelvis of an early dinosaur.

During just two days, the developing embryo changes in a way that reflects how they changed in evolution, transitioning from looking like an early dinosaur to looking like a modern bird.

The pelvis is the core of a birds body. It runs the length of the avian frame, engulfing the torso, while also enabling a bird to stand, move, and carry the weight of its entire body.

The bird body is incredibly modified in virtually every way to create an optimized flying machine, Dr. Bhullar said.

Its body structures are tightly constrained by the necessities of aeronautic design.

The scientists also looked at avian muscles and nerves related to the development of the pelvis.

The development of those systems were not synchronous with bone development, implying that each system was somewhat uncoupled from the others.

Our data provide evidence that the avian pelvis, whose early development has been little studied, evolved through terminal addition  a mechanism whereby new apomorphic states are added to the end of a developmental sequence, resulting in expression of ancestral character states earlier in that sequence, the authors said.

The phenotypic integration we detected suggests a previously unrecognized mechanism for terminal addition and hints that retention of ancestral states in development is common during evolutionary transitions.

The study was published in the journal Nature.

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C.T. Griffin et al. The developing bird pelvis passes through ancestral dinosaurian conditions. Nature, published online July 27, 2022; doi: 10.1038/s41586-022-04982-w
(Photo : Barry Williams/Getty Images) ATLANTA - NOVEMBER 19: One of five Beluga Whales swim in Cold Water Quest exhibit at the Georgia Aquarium November 19, 2005 in Atlanta, Goergia. The Georgia Aquarium, the world'd largest by gallons, 8 million plus, and by the number of fish, 100,000 plus, opens to the public November 23, 2005. Funding for the Georgia Aquarium was made possible by a 200 million dollar gift from Home Depot co-founder Bernie Marcus and his wife Billi through the Marcus Foundation.

The previous attempts to feed a severely undernourished Beluga whale that got lost in the Seine River in France failed. So, the scientists are working to free the whale from the river lock where it is stuck, according to environmentalists said Monday.

Efforts to Feed Beluga Whale in France's River Seine Fails So Far

Sea Shepherd France, a marine conservation organization, mentioned in an ABC News report that efforts to feed the seal are ongoing and to figure out how to get it out of the lock in the best possible conditions.

According to experts at the location, the beluga should not linger in the warm, stagnant water between lock gates for an extended time.

"The beluga is still not feeding (a priori), but it continues to be curious," tweeted Sea Shepherd France.

The missing beluga was first spotted last week in a river in France, far from its native Arctic home. French fire departments' drone film captured the whale peacefully meandering in a section of the river's bright green waters between Paris and Rouen in Normandy, hundreds of kilometers (miles) inland from the ocean.

Since Friday, experts have unsuccessfully attempted to feed the beluga with live and dead herrings. Sea Shepherd worries that the whale may eventually die in the canal.

According to local officials and vets, the whale received some medical care, vitamins, and items to increase its appetite.

ALSO READ: 12-Meter Long Humpback Whale Rescued by Divers After Being Trapped in an Illegal Net Off the Balearic Island of Mallorca

Rescue Efforts to Save Beluga

Since last Friday, environmentalists have been striving to feed the creature a catch of herring.

The whale displays a "fleeing behavior vis-a-vis the boats," according to authorities in the l'Eure area, and has not reacted to attempts to lead it to safer waters.

Sources also mentioned that those attempting to help him are being as discrete as they can to avoid the stress that could aggravate his state of health.

"It's quite an impressive animal, which is white and which seems calm. It doesn't seem stressed, surfacing regularly," fire service officer Patrick Herot, from Normandy's Eure region, told French broadcaster TF1 (via Metro),

It is anticipated that the whale will slowly starve to death if rescuers cannot save it soon.

The Seine's warm water endangers the animal's health. Hence, France24 mentioned that rescuers are considering last-ditch measures to get it out.

Authorities said that one option would be to open the locks and wait for the beluga to swim toward the English Channel.

Opening the locks would put Paris in even greater danger of the whale traveling farther upriver, which would be terrible.

After several unsuccessful attempts to feed the whale, the authorities thought of injecting the animal with vitamins to increase its appetite.

Sea Shepherd France head Lamya Essemlali told the AFP news agency (via BBC News) that experts still have "little hope" for the severely underweight whale.

Essemlali noted that the crew continues to worry about the whale's capacity to return to the sea on its own. Even if the team used a boat to "drive" the animal there, it would be exceedingly risky if not impossible to do so.

RELATED ARTICLE: Satellite Images Show Militarized Dolphin Pens in Russian Naval Base; What Can These Trained Marine Mammals Do to Be Involved in War?

Check out more news and information on Ocean in Science Times.
(Photo : Adam Berry/Getty Images) A digger carries an unexploded 500-kilogram (1,100-pound) bomb from World War II after its deactivation on April 20, 2018 in Berlin, Germany.

Europe is experiencing heatwaves this summer that brought record-breaking temperatures, causing Italy's River Po to run out of water, revealing previously submerged items. Science Times previously reported that a 160-foot shipwreck used in World War II became visible when river water levels dropped so low.

Reuters reported that on July 25, another artifact from World War II appeared when a group of fishermen unexpectedly discovered the American-made bomb near the northern Italian village of Borgo Virgilio.

(Photo : Adam Berry/Getty Images)

A digger carries an unexploded 500-kilogram (1,100-pound) bomb from World War II after its deactivation on April 20, 2018, in Berlin, Germany.

Extreme Drought Reveals Unexploded WWII Bomb

Army official Colonel Marco Nasi told Reuters that fishermen on the banks of the depleted River Po found the 1,000-pound (450-kilogram) bomb, which appeared to have been submerged for more than 70 years. A large section of the 400-mile (650-kilometer) river has dried up in the country's worst drought ever in seven decades.

The unexploded bomb is said to contain 530-pound (240-kilogram) of explosives. About 3,000 residents near the area were asked to evacuate the area on Aug. 7, so the military could carry out a controlled explosion.

Local Mayor Francesco Apori said that some inhabitants were initially hesitant to move, but luckily they persuaded everyone to evacuate in the last few days.

According to BBC News, the airspace and river traffic on the waterway of the area was also shut down for a brief time during the controlled explosion. There were no injuries or casualties reported afterward.

Unusually hot weather and low rainfall levels have caused the river to dry up and reveal some historical artifacts never been seen before.

River Po is the longest river in Italy, but annual satellite images reveal the expanding patches of dried-up riverbeds following the extreme drought.

ALSO READ: Sriracha Shortage: Drought and Weather Changes Could Cause Scarcity of the Favorite Hot Sauce



Northern Hemisphere Hit With Extreme Heat Waves

The Italian government declared a state of emergency last month in the area surrounding River Po, which irritates one-third of the agricultural production of the country. The lack of rainfall and extreme heat in recent months caused salty seawater to seep into the river and destroy crops, the farmers in Po Valley said.

Science Alert reported that the Northern Hemisphere has experienced extreme heat waves predicted to become common in the coming years as climate change worsens. Rome reported its highest temperature at 105 degrees Fahrenheit (40.5 Celsius) last June.

Rome's Tiber River dried up so much that the ruins of an ancient bridge from the reign of Emperor Nero between CE 54 to 68 became visible on the riverbed. Experts said that the bridge only becomes visible during long periods of drought, such as in this year's case.

The state of emergency announced by the Italian government has nothing to do with the bomb. Instead, it was because of the record-breaking heat waves and drought across the country.

RELATED ARTICLE: Po River in Italy Faces Worst Drought in 70 Years Makes 160-Foot Submerged Zibello Shipwreck Visible in the Surface



Check out more news and information on Climate Change in Science Times.
MIDDLE EAST

Lebanon

Expected Council Action

In May, Council members expect to receive their bi-annual briefing in consultations on the Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of resolution 1559. Adopted in 2004, this resolution called for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Lebanon, the disarmament of all militias, and the extension of government control over the whole Lebanese territory. A copy of the Secretary-Generals report, which is expected to serve as the basis for the briefing, was circulated to Council members on 22 April. Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo is the expected briefer.

Key Recent Developments

Parliamentary elections are scheduled in Lebanon for 15 May. While several political leaders, including Prime Minister Najib Mikati, have said publicly that the elections will be held without delays, several factors regarding the polls are a source of uncertainty. In February, the government approved an election budget of approximately $18 million, a $36 million decrease from the budget for the 2018 elections. According to data referenced by the Lebanese interior minister, public electricity provider Electricite du Liban may charge in excess of $16 million to provide power on the day of the elections, and the state may still have to use private generators to ensure the powering of polling centres. (Extensive power shortages have been one of the elements of Lebanons ongoing socioeconomic crisis.)

In January, Sunni leader and former prime minister Saad Hariri announced that he was retiring from political life and would not stand in the elections. In April, Sunni-majority states Saudi Arabia and Kuwait returned their ambassadors to Lebanon after having recalled them in October 2021 whenin the context of already strained relationships between Lebanon and Saudi Arabiacritical comments by former Lebanese Information Minister George Kordahi on the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen came to light. (Kordahi made the negative commentswhich included a comment that Iran-backed Houthis were defending themselves from an external aggressionbefore joining the government. He stepped down in December 2021.) Some analysts have argued that, among broader calculations, the rapprochement may be aimed at preventing the Shia group Hezbollah from increasing its influence in the context of the upcoming elections. The ambassadors of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain, who were also recalled in the aftermath of Kordahis comments, have yet to return to Lebanon.

The May elections will also be the first since the October 2019 mass protests against the Lebanese political establishment (for background, see our brief on Lebanon in the November 2019 Forecast). On 23 April, Al Jazeera reported that some independent candidates have faced intimidation and attacks, including a candidate who had some of her electoral billboards vandalised. In his 11 March report on the implementation of resolution 1701, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called upon the Lebanese authorities to prevent violence against women in politics and urged political actors to commit to peaceful elections and freedom of expression, to work to calm tensions and to refrain from sectarian incitement and hate speech. Security Council members underscored the importance of holding free, fair, transparent and inclusive elections in the two most recent press statements on Lebanon, issued on 27 September 2021 and 4 February, ensuring the full, equal and meaningful participation of women as candidates and voters.

Lebanon continues to experience the effects of its severe socioeconomic crisis, with added concerns over the impact of the conflict in Ukraine on food security in Lebanon. (According to a recent FAO information note, Lebanon is among a group of countries that have, on average, imported half of their wheat purchases from Ukraine and Russia.) In this context, the situation of refugees in Lebanon remains dire. In March, the World Food Programme in Lebanon assisted 1,071,007 Syrian refugees and 6,431 refugees of other nationalities, in addition to 529,194 Lebanese people in need. On 24 March, UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon Joanna Wronecka visited the Burj Barajneh refugee camp, where she was briefed by officials of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) on the growing needs of Palestine refugees for UNRWAs services, including education, health, social services, and cash assistance.

On 23 April, a boat carrying a group of people intending to leave Lebanon sank off the coast of Tripoli in the north of the country, killing at least six people. According to media reports, some survivors accused the Lebanese navy of ramming the boat, causing it to sink, while the military reportedly said that the collision occurred as a result of the boats attempted evasion manoeuvres. In a 24 April tweet, Wronecka said that the tragedy is another signal of the urgent need for solutions to Lebanons socio-economic crises and living hardships.

A delegation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) visited Lebanon from 28 March to 7 April. At the end of the visit, an IMF official announced that the Lebanese authorities and the IMF had reached a staff-level agreement (that is, a preliminary agreement) to potentially support Lebanon for 46 months with around $3 billion. The agreement has yet to be approved by the IMF management and Executive Board and is subject to the Lebanese authorities implementing a series of prior actionsincluding Parliamentary approval of the 2022 budgetas well as confirmation of international partners financial support.

On 10 March, the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) convicted Hezbollah-linked Hassan Habib Merhi and Hussein Hassan Oneissi, both tried in absentia, for being accomplices to intentional homicide, among other felonies, reversing on appeal its earlier acquittal. In a 22 March statement, the Secretary-General called for the decision of the tribunal to be respected and urged the international community to continue supporting the work of the STL. (The STL, a tribunal composed of Lebanese and international judges, began operating in 2009 to try those accused of carrying out the February 2005 bombing in which former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri and 21 others were killed.) In a 13 March tweet, the US State Department welcomed the convictions of Merhi and Oneissi.

According to media reports, the Lebanese government has recently approved the demolition of the silos, which were seriously damaged in the August 2020 Beirut port explosion. This is despite concerns on the part of victims families that the demolition may allow for the port to be reconstructed even in the absence of accountability for the explosion and that this may erase a visible reminder of the need for justice. To date, no significant progress has been achieved in the inquiry into the responsibility for the blast.

Adopted in August 2021, resolution 2591 extended UNIFILs mandate until August 2022 and requested it to support the LAF through temporary and special measures consisting of non-lethal material (fuel, food and medicine) and logistical support for six months. (This provision was motivated by concerns about the impact of the socioeconomic crisis on the LAFs capacity to satisfactorily carry out its functions in UNIFILs area of operations.) The six months expired at the end of February. In a 15 March letter, the Permanent Representative of Lebanon said that extending these measures is vital to ensuring the implementation of resolution 1701 and to strengthening the capacity of UNIFIL to carry out its activities. The letter requested that the temporary and special measures be extended for an additional year. During the 25 April quarterly open debate on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, the representative of Lebanon expressed hope that the Council will look favourably at Lebanons request. At the time of writing, it does not appear that Council members will consider whether to extend these measures before UNIFILs mandate renewal in August.

On 25 April, a rocket was launched from southern Lebanon towards Israel. A UNIFIL statement issued later the same day says that the Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Aroldo Lazaro Saenz was in immediate contact with the Lebanese and Israeli authorities to urge restraint but that [n]onetheless, the Israel Defense Forces [IDF] fired back several dozen shells into Lebanon. According to media reports, the IDF suspects that Palestinian factions are responsible for the launch, possibly in connection with recent tensions in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza. (For background, see our 18 and 24 April Whats in Blue stories.) On 26 April, the IDF announced that it had seized a number of weaponsincluding machine guns and hand grenadesthat were apparently intended to be smuggled into Israel. In February, Israeli fighter jets flew over Beirut following incursions by Hezbollah drones into Israel and declarations by Hezbollahs leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah that the group had become capable of converting standard rockets into precision missiles.

Women, Peace and Security On 1 March, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women issued its Concluding Observations on the sixth periodic report of Lebanon under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). The Committee noted with concern that women only represent 4.7 percent of parliamentarians and are still underrepresented in ministries and municipal councils, as well as in leadership positions. In view of the 15 May elections, the Committee urged Lebanon to establish a minimum quota of 30 percent for women candidates on the electoral lists of political parties. At the time of writing, no such measure has been adopted.

Key issues and Options

The substantial amount of weaponry held by Hezbollah and other non-state actors in Lebanon is a long-standing issue. This situation contributes to periodic tensions between Israel and Lebanon. Other key issues of interest for the Council are the timely holding of elections in May, the subsequent formation of a government, and the implementation of reforms aimed at addressing the ongoing socioeconomic instability. Council members are likely to closely follow developments in these areas in the coming months, and may consider a product, as appropriate.

Council Dynamics

There is broad consensus among Council members in support of Lebanons sovereignty, territorial integrity and security. Differences over Hezbollah remain among Council members. While some Council members distinguish between Hezbollahs political and military wings and have designated only its military wing as a terrorist organisation, members, including the UK and the US, have listed the Shia group in its entirety as a terrorist organisation. Russia, on the other hand, sees Hezbollah as a legitimate sociopolitical force.

France is the penholder on Lebanon.

UN DOCUMENTS ON LEBANON

This resolution extended the mandate of UNIFIL for another year until 31 August 2022. This resolution urged withdrawal of all foreign forces from Lebanon, disarmament of all Lebanese and non-Lebanese militias, extension of the Lebanese governments control over all Lebanese territory and free and fair presidential elections. This was the most recent Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of resolution 1701. This was the most recent Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of resolution 1559.
MIDDLE EAST

Yemen

Expected Council Action

In May, the Council is expected to hold its monthly briefing on Yemen, followed by closed consultations. Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg and an official from OCHA will brief. Major General Michael Beary, the head of the UN Mission to Support the Hodeidah Agreement (UNMHA), is expected to brief during consultations.

Key Recent Developments

On 1 April, Special Envoy Grundberg announced that the conflict parties had agreedfor the first time since 2016to a nationwide truce for two months, from 2 April until 2 June, with the possibility of an extension. The truce, which the UN proposed for the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, entails halting all offensive ground, aerial, and maritime military operations inside and outside Yemen and freezing current military positions on the ground.

The truce agreement also sets out humanitarian measures. During the two-month period, the Yemeni government and the Saudi Arabia-led coalition committed to allow 18 fuel ships to enter the Houthi rebel group-held ports in Hodeidah governorate and two commercial flights per week in and out of Sanaa Airport to Egypt and Jordan. The Special Envoy is also expected to convene a meeting of the parties to agree on opening roads in various governorates to facilitate the movement of civilians, including Taiz governorate, where the Houthis have maintained a siege of Taiz city for years.

The truce was followed by a second major development. In the early hours of 7 April, Yemeni President Abd Rabbo Mansour Hadi dismissed his controversial vice-president, Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, who had been in office since 2016. Hadi subsequently issued a presidential declaration that irrevocably transferred his own full powers in accordance with the constitution and the Gulf initiative and its executive mechanism to a new eight-person Presidential Leadership Council (PLC). These moves took place at the end of inter-Yemeni consultations that had started on 29 March in Riyadh, which were sponsored by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and brought together various anti-Houthi factions.

The PLC comprises leaders of several key groups. Rashad al-Alimi, a former interior minister in the early 2000s, was appointed as its president. The PLCs other members are Marib Governor Sultan al-Arada, National Resistance Forces leader Tareq Saleh, Giants Brigades Commander Abdulrahman Abu Zaraa, Chief of Staff of the Presidential Office Abdullah al-Alimi Bawazeer, Member of Parliament Othman al-Majali, Southern Transitional Council President Aiderous al-Zubaidi, and Hadramawt Governor Faraj al-Bahsani.

According to the presidential declaration, the PLCs functions include managing Yemens political, military and security affairs. The declaration stated that the PLC is in charge of negotiating with Ansar Allah (the Houthis) for a permanent ceasefireand sitting at the negotiating table to reach a final and comprehensive political solution that includes a transitional phase that will move Yemen from a state of war to a state of peace. The declaration also appointed a 50-person Consultation and Reconciliation Commission, a legal team, and an economic team to support the PLC. The declaration ended the period of Hadis presidency, which began in February 2012 and was intended to last for the two years of political transition following President Ali Abdullah Salehs resignation.

A Security Council press statement on 13 April welcomed the creation of the PLC and its assumption of powers. Council members expressed their hope and expectation that the creation of the PLC will form an important step towards stability and an inclusive Yemeni-led and -owned political settlement, noting the PLCs intention to form a negotiating team for the UN-led talks. Previously, on 4 April, Council members issued two press statements, one condemning the 20 March and 25 March cross-border terrorist attacks by the Houthis against Saudi Arabia that struck critical civilian infrastructure and the other welcoming the Special Envoys 1 April call for a truce and the parties positive response.

From 11 to 13 April, Grundberg conducted his first visit to Sanaa since assuming his role as Special Envoy in September 2021. According to Grundberg, Houthi leaders expressed their commitment to implementing all aspects of the truce, with discussions focused on strengthening the agreement and on next steps beyond the two-month truce period.

On 14 April, Grundberg and Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths briefed the Council. Grundberg reported a significant reduction of violence since the truce and confirmed that there had been no airstrikes inside Yemen or cross-border attacks emanating from Yemen. According to Griffiths, the truce was already improving the humanitarian situation as civilian casualties had fallen to their lowest levels in months and increased fuel imports were easing Yemens fuel shortage. At the same time, both briefers noted reports of military operations, particularly around Marib and Taiz, that Grundberg said must be addressed urgently through the mechanisms established by the truce.

Following the formation of the PLC, Saudi Arabia announced a $3 billion economic package for Yemen and $300 million for the UN 2022 Yemen humanitarian response plan (HRP). The package includes $2 billion that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will jointly contribute to Yemens central bank to stabilise the Yemeni rialthe news of which had already strengthened the currency by 25 percent, according to Griffiths at the 14 April briefing. During his briefing, Griffiths also reported that work on a UN-facilitated plan to transfer oil to another ship from the FSO Safer oil tanker, moored in the Red Sea off the Houthi-held port Ras Isa, could begin in May if the $80 million donor funding for the operation is raised.

On 17 April, Grundberg met in Riyadh with PLC President Rashad al-Alimi. On 19 April, Alimi and the other members of the PLC were sworn in at a ceremony in Aden, which Grundberg attended.

Key Issues and Options

A key issue is to make sure that the parties uphold, implement and extend the truce. Reported hostilities, especially in Marib, are therefore of concern. Moreover, it is critical that there be progress on restarting an inclusive political process during the truce. Members could agree to closely monitor the parties compliance and encourage Grundberg to engage the sides to strengthen the truce and complete his multi-track framework for a political process, which the Council could then endorse.

Despite the truces positive impact on Yemens humanitarian crisis, key issues remain, such as preventing famine and protecting civilians, improving humanitarian access, supporting the economy, and raising funds for relief efforts. Even with the recent Saudi announcement, the HRP has received commitments of only $1.6 billion of a required $4.27 billion. Council members could encourage the parties to implement the truces humanitarian elements, including opening roads in Taiz, and urge UN member states to fulfil their pledges to the HRP.

Resolving the issue of the FSO Safer is an ongoing issue. During the first half of May, the Netherlands is expected to host a donor conference to raise funding for the oil transfer operation.

Council Dynamics

Council members welcomed the truce announcement. Despite some concerns about Saudi Arabias reportedly pressuring Hadi to transfer power, members appeared to view the political reconfiguration favourably as Hadi had been an unpopular leader and the new PLC encompasses members of key groups crucial to the negotiation of a political settlement with the Houthis. Members have also been supportive of the new UN plan to resolve the threat posed by the FSO Safer.

The UAE is a key member of the Saudi Arabia-led coalition. It pushed for the Council to take stronger positions against the Houthis after the groups seizure of an Emirati flag vessel and missile and drone attacks targeting Abu Dhabi earlier this year. The US announced in April that it would lead a new maritime operation to prevent arms and other illicit trafficking in the Red Sea and off Yemens southern coast, which prompted Houthi criticism. Russia has often opposed singling out the Houthis in Council products. This made its vote in favour of resolution 2624, which called the Houthis a terrorist group, an unusual move, but it occurred against the backdrop of UAE abstentions on two Council resolutions addressing Russias aggression against Ukraine. Brazil, Ireland, Mexico, and Norway abstained on resolution 2624, which renewed the Yemen sanctions regime, because of their concerns about labelling the Houthis as a terrorist group. The ambassadors to Yemen of the Councils five permanent members (China, France, Russia, the UK and the US) continue to work closely to support the Special Envoys efforts.

The UK is the penholder on Yemen. Ambassador Ferit Hoxha (Albania) chairs the Yemen 2140 Sanctions Committee.

UN DOCUMENTS ON YEMEN

This resolution renewed the Yemen sanctions regime for one year and added the Houthis as an entity to the Yemen sanctions list, subject to the measures of the targeted arms embargo in resolution 2216. This was a briefing on Yemen. This press statement welcomed the creation of and the assumption of responsibilities by the Presidential Leadership Council of the Yemeni Government . This press statement welcomed the 1 April call by UN Special Envoy [Hans] Grundberg for a two-month truce announcement on Yemen and the positive response from the parties. This press statement strongly condemned the cross-border terrorist attacks by the Houthis against Saudi Arabia on 20 March and 25 March, which struck critical civilian infrastructure.
AMERICAS

Haiti

Expected Council Action

In June, the Security Council will receive a briefing from the Special Representative and head of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), Helen La Lime, on recent developments and the Secretary-Generals latest report on BINUH, due by 10 June. A civil society representative may also brief. The meeting may be followed by closed consultations.

Key Recent Developments

Since the Council last met to discuss the situation in Haiti on 18 February, the rapidly deteriorating security situation in the country has remained a key concern. On 24 April, clashes erupted between the rival gangs Chen Mechan and 400 Mawazo in the communes of Croix-des Bouquets, Tabarre and Cite Soleil in Haitis capital, Port-au-Prince. Over the course of several days, the fighting extended gradually across additional communes of the capital. In a 4 May report, OCHA estimated that some 9,000 persons had fled the areas, adding to the roughly 19,000 already internally displaced persons in Port-au-Prince who had fled their homes due to gang activity since June 2021.

The escalation in violence prompted Mexico and the US to call for a Council meeting on 17 May under any other business. La Lime briefed Council members on the humanitarian effects of the violent gang activity on the local population; on the challenges faced by the Haitian National Police, which lacks crucial staffing, financial and material resources; and on the need for sustained international commitment to support Haiti in overcoming its security crisis. In a press release issued that day, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said that armed violence has reached unimaginable and intolerable levels and called for urgent steps to be taken to restore the rule of law, to protect people from armed violence and to hold to account the political and economic sponsors of these gangs, along with the need to strengthen state institutions.

Bachelets office reported that between 24 April and 16 May, at least 92 people unaffiliated with gangs and some 96 alleged to be gang members were reportedly killed during coordinated armed attacks in Port-au-Prince. Another 113 were injured, 12 were reported missing, and 49 were kidnapped for ransom.

The dire security situation, lack of economic opportunities and insufficient access to basic services have prompted many Haitians to leave their country. A significant number are being repatriated by the US: the International Organization for Migration reported in April that 11,620 Haitian migrants had returned to Haiti since January (compared to 2,520 Haitian nationals who returned during the same period in 2021). Of those, 74 percent were repatriated by the US. Repatriation of Haitians arriving in the US has increased since autumn 2021, when some 12,000 Haitians travelled via South and Central American countries to Del Rio, Texas, a town on the border with Mexico. The Biden administration has pursued a policy of repatriating Haitians who crossed the border but has also indicated that it could release some on a case-by-case basis. The first repatriation flights left the US for Port-au-Prince on 19 September 2021. Despite the policy, many Haitians continue to venture abroad. On 12 May, a vessel carrying mostly Haitian migrants capsized near Puerto Rico. Eleven migrants drowned; close to 40 were rescued by the US Coast Guard.

Two main political factions are competing for power and have charted opposing plans to lead Haiti out of its political crisis: a group supporting Prime Minister Ariel Henry and his plan to hold a constitutional referendum followed by elections by the end of 2022, with Henry leading the country until then; and supporters of the Montana Accord, for whom the constitutional referendum is not a priority and who seek a two-year transitional government under different interim leadership, with elections to be held in 2023. Henry and representatives of the Montana Group are currently engaging in mediation meetings and dialogue.

During a speech on 18 May, a national holiday, Henry called for an inclusive national dialogue and said the government was working tirelessly to create an environment with the necessary security for holding elections. Only then, he said, would the country be stable enough to create job opportunities and attract investment.

Henry has yet to appoint a new Provisional Electoral Council. This body, which was disbanded in September 2021, is responsible for organising Haitis long-overdue elections and overseeing a constitutional referendum (a project initiated by late President Jovenel Moise, who was assassinated on 7 July 2021). Meanwhile, the investigation into Moises assassination has not gained any traction.

On 15 March, US President Biden signed a spending bill that contains several provisions concerning Haiti. These include requirements for the State Department to report to Congress on the status of the ongoing investigation into Moises murder, Haitis ability to carry out an inquiry into the assassination and the support that the Biden administration has provided to Haitis judiciary to assist in the inquiry.

On 18 April, the Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti released its annual report to the Council on its activities, with several recommendations for the Councils consideration. These include that the Council urgently address the political crisis and the mounting insecurity in Haiti, with the establishment of an inclusive national dialogue with a view to creating the conditions for holding elections. It further recommends a holistic approach to establishing security and to strengthen Haitis police.

On 29 April, Council members received a letter from the Secretary-General conveying the findings of a strategic assessment of BINUHs mandate. The Council mandated the assessment in resolution 2600 of October 2021 to determine whether and how the mandate could be adjusted to address Haitis challenges and to increase the effectiveness of the mission. The review determined that BINUH is well placed to create space for political dialogue and called for the continuation of the mandate. Based on the review findings, the Secretary-General said, BINUH should be empowered to continue its good offices, scale-up police support to curb armed gang violence and reach out to all sectors of society, including communities in areas controlled by gangs. In this regard, he added that the mission should engage more systematically with all Haitian stakeholders to promote national dialogue and that BINUH should be given the resources needed to increase its advisory support to strengthen the capacity of the national police to fight gangs, reopen police commissariats in areas affected by gang violence and stem illicit financial flows.

Key Issues and Options

A key issue for the Council is to determine how the elements of the strategic assessment will inform its future engagement on Haiti, given the significant governance, security and humanitarian challenges facing the government. Another important issue is addressing the insecurity in Port-au-Prince and its attendant humanitarian consequences.

Council members could consider a presidential statement that calls on the international community to provide sustained financial, material and technical support in a coordinated manner and in consultation with the Haitian government. They could also encourage UN member states to provide bilateral support to Haitis rule of law institutions in the statement.

Council Dynamics

Dynamics concerning Haiti have been difficult, and divergent views on the future of the UN presence in the country may re-emerge. Although united in the view that Haiti faces grave political, economic, security, and humanitarian challenges, Council members hold different opinions on how these should be addressed. During the last BINUH mandate renewal in October 2021, China advocated a strategic review with a view to identifying a strategy for the missions drawdown, placing emphasis on the governments primary responsibility for addressing the countrys challenges. Several Council membersincluding Kenya and other elected members that have since left the Council (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Niger and Tunisia) also requested a strategic assessment, but with a view to determining how the missions mandate could be strengthened.

During the 18 February Council meeting on Haiti, China expressed the view that the UN system had provided large amounts of funding without the desired impact and that synergies with the UN agencies funds and programmes or regional organisations should be explored. At the same meeting, the US called on Haitis partners to increase support, particularly for community violence-reduction initiatives, while Russia emphasised that BINUH should prioritise supporting an effective national dialogue.

The US and Mexico are the co-penholders on Haiti.

UN DOCUMENTS ON HAITI



This resolution renewed the mandate of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) for nine months, until 15 July 2022. It also requested the Secretary-General to conduct an assessment of BINUHs mandate within six months of the resolutions adoption. The Council expressed its deep concern regarding the protracted political, constitutional, humanitarian, and security crises in Haiti, and emphasised the primary responsibility of the government of Haiti to address underlying drivers of instability. This was a letter from the Secretary-General to the Security Council conveying the findings of a strategic assessment of BINUH. This was the 120-day report on Haiti and the special political mission covering developments between 27 September 2021 and 15 February 2022. This meeting record was on the 18 February 2022 meeting on the situation in Haiti. This was the statement was released by the President of the Security Council, condemning the assassination of the President of Haiti, Jovenel Moise. This was the press statement reiterating deep concern of Council members regarding deteriorating political, security and humanitarian conditions in Haiti and stressing the primary responsibility of the Government of Haiti to address the situation.
Central African Republic: Briefing and Consultations

Tomorrow (22 February), the Security Council will convene for a briefing, followed by consultations, on the Central African Republic (CAR). Special Representative for CAR and head of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) Mankeur Ndiaye will brief on the Secretary-Generals latest report on MINUSCA (S/2022/119), which was issued on 15 February. This will be Ndiayes final briefing to the Council. Ndiayes term ends on 28 February and the Secretary-General has expressed his intention to appoint Valentine Rugwabiza, the Permanent Representative of Rwanda to the UN, as the next Special Representative. The Executive Secretary of the International Conference for the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), Joao Samuel Caholo, is the other anticipated briefer. The CAR Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sylvie Baipo-Temon, is also expected to participate.

Ndiaye and Caholo are likely to provide updates on developments since the declaration of the unilateral ceasefire by President Faustin-Archange Touadera on 15 October 2021. Members will be particularly interested in hearing about progress in the implementation of the joint roadmap adopted by the ICGLR within the framework of the 2019 Political Agreement. Council members see this as key to facilitating dialogue between the government and armed groups and may reiterate their support for this regional approach. Ndiaye and Caholo may refer to a 26 November 2021 meeting that the AU, the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the European Union, ICGLR, and the UN held with President Touadera via videoconference as part of a regular dialogue on the peace process. They may also mention the first meeting on the ICGLR roadmap in Bangui on 14 January.

The Secretary-Generals report states that while the unilateral ceasefire was an important step, political tensions continued in the face of limited progress in implementing the political agreement and the republican dialogue launched by the government to facilitate the political process. In this regard, Ndiaye may cover the controversy surrounding the lifting of parliamentary immunity of three prominent opposition members as part of the investigation of former president Francois Bozize who was accused by the government of trying to stage a coup. The Coalition of the Democratic Opposition, made up of 12 opposition parties, withdrew their representatives in the Republican Dialogue Organising Committee and only resumed their participation once judicial proceedings against the three opposition members were withdrawn. This decision is expected to facilitate the republican dialogue, which according to the Secretary-Generals report, is now scheduled to take place in March.

The security situation in the country remains volatile, despite the declaration of the unilateral ceasefire. The Secretary-Generals report notes that the withdrawal of one of the armed groups, Unite pour la paix en Centrafrique (UPC), from the 2019 Political Agreement on 29 November 2021, contributed to the deterioration of the security situation. Ndiaye may provide information on the ongoing military operations by national defence forces in the western part of the country along the border with Chad and Cameroon as well as in the central regions. The report indicates that they are conducting these operations with the support of bilaterally deployed and other security personnel, while armed groups respond with asymmetrical attacks.

The Secretary-Generals report highlights protection challenges in three particular prefectures  Haute-Kotto, Nana-Grebizi and Ouaka  where minority communities were targeted. The report, which covers the period since 12 October 2021, states that there has been a small decrease (0.03 percent) in the number of incidents but an increase (5.5 percent) in the number of victims compared to the last reporting period. The impact of the ongoing violence on the human rights situation in the country has been a matter of serious concern for Council members. In this context, members may ask Ndiaye to confirm that human rights violations continue unabated with the targeting and abuse of civilians.

The issue of human rights abuses by bilaterally deployed and other security personnel was a major focus when the Council last discussed the situation in CAR on 18 October 2021. It will most likely also be raised at tomorrows meeting. The Secretary-Generals report indicates that of the 413 documented incidents of human rights violations and abuses, 175 were allegedly perpetrated by national defence and security forces and other security personnel, affecting 430 victims. The figures reported represent a decrease of 24.9 percent of incidents of human rights violations and a 17 percent fall in the number of victims. Some Council members are of the opinion that the report does not provide sufficient information on the human rights abuses being committed in the country. These members may reiterate their call on the government to fight impunity against all actors, including the Wagner Group.

Some members may raise concerns about the Wagner Group, as they did at the last meeting, when France, along with some other members, characterised the groups presence as destabilising. France also called for the removal of ambiguity created by the use of the phrase bilaterally deployed and other security personnel from UN reports. Russia maintains that its instructors are in the country at CARs request and with the knowledge of the 2127 CAR sanctions committee. It also denies that the instructors are involved in hostilities and wants possible violations to be investigated by the CAR authorities.

Council members may also raise issues around the role of MINUSCA and the need to build trust between the CAR authorities and the mission. At the last meeting, Council members expressed concerns about the disinformation campaign against MINUSCA and the continued violation of the status of forces agreement (SOFA), which is hindering the mission from effectively carrying out its mandated tasks. The Secretary-Generals report indicates that while incidents of disinformation and SOFA violations decreased slightly, 17 SOFA violations were still recorded in the reporting period, attributed to members of the national defence forces and other security personnel, including obstruction to the freedom of movement of MINUSCA patrols, and threats against UN personnel. Tomorrows meeting will be the first since MINUSCAs mandate was renewed in November 2021 for another 12 months. China and Russia abstained on the vote, arguing that the text did not take into account the views of the host country.

The issue of the arms embargo, in place since 2013, could also be raised at tomorrows meeting, although it is not expected to be a major focus. Baipo-Temon may reiterate President Touaderas request to the Council in October 2021 to consider lifting the arms embargo in order to allow his country to enhance the effectiveness of its defence and security forces. Some Council members, including the African members, may support this request in order to express solidarity with CAR, but the penholder and others may argue that the sanctions regime is sufficiently flexible to allow the countrys defence and security forces to equip themselves and strengthen their operational capacities. Russia has blocked the appointment of experts to the Panel of Experts supporting the CAR sanctions regime for the past six months. In this regard, some members could express disappointment that the Panel has not been able to carry out its work and stress the need to appoint the Panel as soon as possible.
Libya: Briefing and Consultations

This afternoon (26 May), the Security Council will convene for an open briefing, followed by closed consultations, on the situation in Libya. Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo will brief. The chair of the 1970 Libya Sanctions Committee, Ambassador T.S. Tirumurti (India), will present the periodic report on the committees activities.

An expected focus of todays meeting is Libyas ongoing political turmoil stemming from the establishment of two rival government structures. A tense stand-off has continued between former interior minister Fathi Bashagha and the incumbent prime minister, Abdul Hamid Mohammed Dbeibah. Bashagha was appointed interim prime minister by the House of Representatives on 10 February, while Dbeibah was elected in February 2021 to head the interim Government of National Unity (GNU) by the Libyan Political Dialogue Foruman assembly consisting of 75 participants representing the main Libyan geographical, social and political constituencies, which was responsible for charting the way towards elections. Bashagha has not been able to establish his government in the capital, Tripoli, despite several attempts to move there, as Dbeibahwho governs from Tripolicontinues to proclaim the validity of his mandate and his intention to hand over power only to a government elected by the Libyan people.

According to media reports, Bashagha had previously stated that he will not attempt to move his cabinet to the capital if the move could trigger violence. However, on the night between 16 and 17 May, Bashagha attempted to enter Tripoli with several of his cabinet members, prompting clashes between armed groups loyal to him and those supporting Dbeibah. The situation stabilised once Bashagha left Tripoli late on 17 May. Bashagha and his Government of National Stability remain based in the city of Sirte, where he held an inaugural cabinet meeting on 21 April.

Council members may express concern about the recent violent outbreak and the political fracture, which threaten to hamper efforts to advance the unification of Libyas state institutions. In this regard, they may wish to hear more from DiCarlo about the efforts of Special Advisor to the Secretary-General on Libya Stephanie Turco Williams to mediate between both factions to chart a consensus-based path towards elections. Between 15 and 20 May, Williams re-convened a joint committee composed of participants from the House of Representatives and the High Council of State (the executive institution and constitutional authority established by the 2015 Libyan Political Agreement that is mandated to propose policies and recommendations on various political issues) for talks in Cairo. The aim of this initiative is to find an agreement between the parties on a constitutional basis for the elections. The first round of talks between the committees members was convened by Williams between 13 and 18 April, also in Cairo.

In her closing remarks on 20 May, Williams commended the initial consensus reached on 137 articles of a 2017 draft constitution which pertain to the legislature and the judiciary. She also noted that this all is a work in progress, while reminding participants that the Libyan people have high hopes for the holding of national, comprehensive, and inclusive elections as soon as possible. (Libyas presidential elections, initially foreseen for 24 December 2021, with parliamentary elections intended to follow several weeks after, were postponed without a new date due to a delay in finalising the candidates list and because of controversy surrounding the electoral law.) Williams announced that the committee will meet again on 11 June.

DiCarlo may describe the efforts of Libyan actors and the UN to promote implementation of the 23 October 2020 ceasefire agreement and the 8 October 2021 5+5 Joint Military Commissions (JMC) action plan for the withdrawal of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The latest Secretary-General report on the situation in Libya, which covers developments between 17 January and 20 May, notes that the ceasefire continues to hold. It further says that the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) ceasefire monitoring component has continued to work closely with the Libyan ceasefire monitoring mechanism to advance the implementation of the JMC action plan.

It appears that Council members had considered holding todays meeting only in closed consultations, without an open briefing, to focus on frank discussion. However, it seems that members felt that following the events of 16 and 17 May, there is a need for the Council to address the Libyan situation in an open forum. Council members are likely to call on Libyan actors not to jeopardise further the gains made and to continue to preserve as well as advance the mutual confidence-building measures already achieved or underway, such as keeping open the coastal road connecting the eastern and western parts of the country. Several Council members are also likely to echo the messages conveyed in the Secretary-Generals report on the need to chart a consensual path to elections and join his call on all Libyan actors to refrain from unilateral actions that could deepen existing divisions, trigger conflict and threaten the hard-won progress of the past two years towards stability and unity.

Regarding the competing political factions, the Council still appears publicly united on the position that Libyans themselves must decide their political fate. Russia is the only Council member to have announced its support for Bashagha since his appointment, but it has also indicated that it will respect any leadership decision that Libyans may take.

Several Council members may emphasise the importance of fully implementing the arms embargo on Libya. European Council members might reference the role of the EU naval mission EUNAVFOR MED IRINI in supporting the implementation of the arms embargo. The mission is currently the only regional arrangement acting under authorisations given by the Council in resolution 2292 of 14 June, which was last renewed in resolution 2578 of 3 June 2021, for member states to inspect vessels bound to and from Libya, which they have reasonable grounds to believe are carrying arms or related material. Council members are currently negotiating the renewal of these authorisations, which expire on 3 June. Members last discussed the authorisations and IRINIs activities on 24 May in an informal interactive dialogue. Stefano Tomat, the Director of the Integrated Approach for Security and Peace Directorate of the European External Action Service, participated in the meeting.

Another pressing concern for the Council is the pending nomination of a Special Representative to lead UNSMIL. Several members may call for the swift appointment of a successor to former Special Envoy Jan Kubis, who resigned on 23 November 2021. In resolution 2629 of 29 April, which most recently renewed UNSMILs mandate, the Council converted the Special Envoy position to a Special Representative post. However, the Secretary-General has yet to identify a candidate to fill this post. Williams appointment as Special Advisor to the Secretary-General for Libya was controversial, and seems to have prompted Russia to request a provision in resolution 2629 convening Council meetings on Libya every 30 days, instead of every 60 days, to remain abreast of the special advisors activities on the ground. Since Williams is apparently expected to leave her post in the summer, finding a candidate to lead mediation efforts has become even more urgent.
A 75-year-old Hawaii resident was arrested and charged with murder in the death of a Palo Alto teenager in 1982, the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office announced Tuesday.

Gary Ramirez was arrested on suspicion of murder and other crimes on Aug. 2 at his home in Makawao on the island of Maui.

Karen Stitt, 15, was last seen by her teenage boyfriend walking at night toward a Sunnyvale bus stop. Intending to take the bus back to Palo Alto and her fathers house, the teenager was instead abducted along the roadway, according to the District Attorneys Office. Stitt was found the next morning about 100 yards from the bus stop, thrown over a 4-foot wall, naked and bound with her own clothing. She had been stabbed more than 60 times.

Clues were limited at the time of the killing, according to the District Attorneys Office. A machinist working late that night noticed an unusual white truck parked near where Stitts body was found, but there were no significant leads for decades  until early 2019, the district attorney said.

Sunnyvale Detective Matt Hutchison used a tip to determine that Stitts killer was likely one of four brothers from Fresno, according to the District Attorneys Office. Officials said that in late April 2022 they identified Ramirez as the likely source of blood and bodily fluid left at the crime scene. The Santa Clara County district attorneys crime lab confirmed that identification last week, officials said.

Behind every old murder file in every major police department, there is a person, heartbreak, and a mystery, Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said in a release. The mystery of Karen Stitts death has been solved thanks to advances in forensic science and a detective that would never, ever give up.

Ramirezs arrest took months of planning and involved Santa Clara County, Maui and federal law enforcement authorities, the District Attorneys Office said. The operation was funded largely by a grant awarded to the office in 2021 by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate cold cases.

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If Ramirez is extradited to California, he will be charged with murder, kidnapping and rape, according to the District Attorneys Office. If convicted, he faces life in prison without the possibility of parole, according to the District Attorneys Office.

Ramirez grew up and attended high school in Fresno, joining the U.S. Air Force in the early 1970s. After leaving the military, he spent time in the Bay Area Peninsula, San Francisco, San Diego, Colorado and Hawaii, officials said. Anyone with information about Gary Ramirez should contact the District Attorneys Office Cold Case Prosecutor Rob Baker at rbaker@dao.sccgov.org.

Emma Talley is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: emma.talley@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EmmaT332
Officers in rural Siskiyou County, fueled by racial prejudice and drug fear-mongering, are stopping the countys small population of Asian American drivers at 12 times the rate of other drivers, according to a new lawsuit in federal court.

County supervisors are also restricting Asian American residents access to water and illegally placing liens on their property, in a policy designed to drive a disfavored racial minority from the county, the suit said. It was filed Wednesday in Sacramento by the American Civil Liberties Union and Asian Americans Advancing Justice as a proposed class action on behalf of the countys 1,200 Asian American residents.

The suit said the policy began several years ago with reports of increased cannabis cultivation in the northwestern California county coinciding with increases in Asian American refugees moving to the county, shortly before the outbreak of a pandemic that then-President Donald Trump called the Chinese flu. Then-Sheriff Jon Lopey described all Asian Americans as pot growers and told county supervisors in January 2019 that he would assign his officers to conduct traffic stops in the county, a job they had not performed in the past, the suit said.

Jeremiah LaRue, appointed sheriff last year, continued the policy and was quoted as blaming alleged increases in drug cultivation and overall crime on Chinese nationals that are in our community. In 2021, the suit said, Asian Americans made up 2.4% of the countys population and more than 28% of those stopped by deputies  and during daytime hours, when a drivers race is more visible, they were 60% more likely to be stopped than at night.

Compared to white drivers, who were flagged less often than other groups, Asian Americans were 17 times as likely to be be stopped by officers, the suit said.

Asian American drivers who were stopped by deputies were held 56% longer than white drivers and were 25 times as likely to be searched, the suit said. But nearly three-fourths of Asian Americans were released without citation or arrest, and only 2.3% of the stops resulted in seizures of cannabis.

Thats a stark contrast to other law enforcement agencies across the state, whose officers typically stop Asian people at far lower rates than other ethnic or racial groups, data shows.

The Chronicle recently analyzed police stop data, released by the state attorney general and found Asian drivers and pedestrians were the least likely to be stopped by officers in the states 15 largest law enforcement jurisdictions in 2020. The data is based on the officers perception of a persons race.

In San Francisco, white people were nearly three times more likely to be stopped than Asian people, relative to their share of the population. In Los Angeles and Oakland, white people were about two times more likely to be stopped than Asian people.

Siskiyou County has not yet been required to report similar racial profiling data to the state. In 2018, California began requiring large law enforcement agencies to collect demographic data about every person stopped by their officers.

The reporting requirement expands to all agencies this year, including tiny Siskiyou County, which has a population of less than 44,000 people and is situated in a mountainous region on the Oregon border. The plaintiffs behind the lawsuit against the county used data from the computer-aided dispatch systems in officers vehicles to calculate the alleged disparity in stops of Asian residents.

One plaintiff in the suit said he was first stopped, for no apparent reason, in the summer of 2020 by a deputy who approached his vehicle holding a gun at his side. The deputy searched the vehicle, found a small fruit knife, took it away and let him go. Then in the spring of 2021 another deputy stopped him on the way back from the laundromat and told him to get out with his hands raised and dumped the laundry on the ground. After the deputy searched and found nothing, the plaintiff said, he had to go back to the laundromat and wash his clothes again.

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The suit also quoted Ray Haupt, a county supervisor, as telling a fellow supervisor in a June 2020 email that I am fearful that we are losing a portion of our county and being turned into a no-go zone, similar to what we see in foreign countries like Europe where Sharia Law has replaced local governance.

After county supervisors voted in 2020 to prohibit property owners from extracting groundwater that was later used to cultivate cannabis, the suit said, 68% of those prosecuted were Asian Americans. The suit said they were also targeted by ordinances in the spring of 2021 that required permits to transport water from an owners property or to carry water in large containers on trucks, forcing some residents out of their homes, until the measures were blocked by U.S. District Judge Kimberly Mueller last September.

The suit also cited a 2020 ordinance that increased maximum fines for cannabis cultivation from $500 to $5,000 per day and authorized the county to place a lien on the property, which could be used to foreclose a home loan when the fine was unpaid. Such liens are not authorized by state law, the suit said.

The suit seeks judicial findings that the county and its officers have engaged in discrimination and court orders against bias in traffic stops and water and lien policies. It does not seek damages.

LaRue and Haupt did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Bob Egelko and Dustin Gardiner (he/him) are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com and dustin.gardiner@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko and @dustingardiner
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San Francisco has demanded more vaccines and treatment options for its escalating cases of monkeypox  but the city has all but abandoned a time-honored method of containing outbreaks: contact tracing.

U.S. health officials declared monkeypox a national health emergency last week, as did California and San Francisco city officials, and although its typically non-fatal, no one wants to become infected by the smallpox relative, with its painful lesions that can lead to scarring.

City public health officials believe that San Francisco, with 472 cases  36% of the states 1,310 cases  has the nations highest per-capita rate.

At first, the practice of tracing people exposed to a fast-spreading disease, then isolating or treating them, seemed like a good idea. Health officials relied on it in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic as cases climbed.

But San Francisco public health officials said that when they tried to trace every person exposed to monkeypox  mostly men who have sex with men  it didnt work.

Many individuals were not willing or were unable to share the names and contact information of partners, health officials said in a statement.

So about a month ago, health officials changed tactics and began urging people with monkeypox to do their own contact tracing. The citys health department hastens to say that it still does monkeypox contact tracing  but said that its limited mostly to kids under 18 and pregnant women.

By contrast, a survey of several Bay Area counties  Alameda, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Contra Costa and Marin  found that all are continuing to do contact tracing with everyone who tests positive for monkeypox.

But case counts there are in the single or double digits, compared with hundreds in San Francisco.

Marin County is up to seven cases  yet only about half were willing to reveal the identity of any partners, no matter how gently public health officials asked or how adamantly they explained that they would keep the information private, said Dr. Matt Willis, the county Department of Public Healths top official.

This is always true for contact tracing sexually transmitted diseases, Willis told The Chronicle. Were asking questions about sex and the kind of sex theyre having.

Willis said that people are often willing to talk about their most intimate moments.

But when it comes to actually naming their partners, theres often a moment where its clear theyre ambivalent about having any more conversation, he said.

One common approach to make people more comfortable involves role-playing the conversation that health officials would like to have with the infected persons partner or partners  and that can work. But not always, Willis said, and usually people just say theyd prefer to contact their partners themselves.

Yet contact tracers are better able to help the partners they do reach, because they can provide appointments and information, if not treatment. A smallpox antiviral can sometimes be used for people who are already sick, and others can get vaccinated. But drugs are in short supply.

Arnab Mukherjea, a public health expert at Cal State East Bay, expressed surprise that San Francisco would put the breaks on contact tracing no matter how low the yield.

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If someone refuses to divulge the name of another person, you cant force that, Mukherjea said. But if good contact tracing nets you five contacts instead of 15, its better than letting it go unfettered.

He said contact tracing can be more effective with monkeypox than with COVID, which is transmitted by air droplets. People cant be sure who they got the coronavirus from, unlike monkeypox, which is commonly transmitted by skin-to-skin contact.

Nevertheless, tracing all partners of a person infected with monkeypox can take hours  especially if they dont pick up their phone, said Willis.

So I could imagine that if, like San Francisco, you have almost 500 cases  and youre not getting a high yield anyway  I can see how resources be better placed elsewhere, he said.

Even so, the fact that the San Francisco Department of Public Health had largely given up on contact tracing was not something officials easily admitted, according to a story this week in Bay Area News Group, publisher of the Mercury News and East Bay Times. The news organization obtained internal emails revealing that they waffled about telling the public the full story.

According to the paper, Susan Philip, San Franciscos health officer, approved of a public response that said: We are doing contact tracing for monkeypox  but not saying how little of it they were doing. Stephanie Cohen, medical director of the San Francisco City Clinic, disagreed, saying that response over-emphasizes contact tracing, the emails cited by the news organization showed.

The statement that S.F. officials sent The Chronicle on Monday acknowledged that they were focusing on younger people and pregnant people.

Nanette Asimov is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: nasimov@sfchronicle.com
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Vanessa Ramos was 19 years old when she was placed in solitary confinement. At the time, she was battling drug addiction and had just given birth to a daughter. Memories of her time in isolation, separated from the rest of the world with no idea where her daughter was, continue to haunt her, she said.

Im not saying that I needed hotel-level comfort, but it was all metal in there. I slept on a metal slab on a really thin mat, Ramos said. If I'm experiencing postpartum depression, I'm detoxing and I have a mental health disability, how would solitary confinement be a good fit for me?

Now a community organizer for Disability Rights California, Ramos said she wants to use her voice to change the carceral system  starting with solitary confinement.

Prolonged solitary confinement is defined by the United Nations Nelson Mandela Rules as a form of torture. Its still used in California and throughout the United States, though over the past year, states like New York and Connecticut have limited its use.

AB2632, written by Assembly Member Chris Holden, D-Pasadena, would end indefinite solitary confinement  which it defines as severely restricting an inmates activity, movement and contact with others besides prison staff for more than 17 hours a day  by preventing California facilities from keeping someone in solitary for more than 15 consecutive days, and from spending more than 45 days in solitary within a 180-day period.

It would also require jails, prisons and private civil detention facilities to document their use of the practice.

Craig Haney, a professor at UC Santa Cruz, said solitary confinement is damaging to people both psychologically and physically. Haney, one of the researchers on the Stanford Prison Experiment, was not involved in drafting AB2632 but has independently researched the psychological effects of incarceration.

We, as a society, have glimpsed what its like to be isolated during the pandemic, he said. Theres a lot of speculation about whether or not there are long-lasting implications for our society. Solitary confinement is a thousand times more problematic.

The bill would also ban the use of solitary for pregnant and postpartum women, those with specific mental or physical disabilities and people under 26 and over 59 years of age.

We frequently see that people who are having a mental health crisis are put in solitary instead of being given the support that they need, said California Collaborative for Immigrant Justice Legal Director Lisa Knox. What the experts have told us is that that causes them to deteriorate, that it actually makes things worse.

Courtesy of Vanessa Ramos

AB2632 passed the state Assembly and faces a key hurdle on Thursday in the Senate appropriations committee.

That committee weighs bills that would cost a significant amount of money. The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation estimated the bill would force a one-time cost of $1.29 billion to create more programming and exercise yard space, plus an additional $6.5 million per institution to increase staffing.

But Hamid Yazdan Panah, advocacy director for Immigrant Defense Advocates, co-authored a report arguing that reducing the use of solitary could ultimately save the state over $60 million.

It costs up to 18% more to hold someone in solitary confinement than regular confinement, Yazdan Panah said. So it would make sense then, that a bill that is going to reduce the total number of people in solitary confinement would lead to savings.

Yazdan Panah said that the costs estimated by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation were based on a bad faith argument and that the department cited unnecessary yard expansion costs.

You don't need to build a new yard to get more people access to the yard. All you need to do is just figure out a different schedule, Yazdan Panah said. So there could be costs associated with the individual and staff. But the idea that you're going to have to expand the existing yard by 50% is just ludicrous.

Though some prisoners end up in solitary confinement as punishment for misbehavior, the bill also highlights the extent to which solitary is used as a purported means of protection for vulnerable inmates, to shield them from attacks.

For example, transgender prisoners may also be placed in solitary confinement for their own protection, according to documents from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. AB2632 would end the use of segregated confinement as a means of protection; instead, individuals facing safety concerns would be sent to an alternative unit that would still give them access to out-of-cell programming and services.

The California State Sheriffs Association, however, argues such placements are sometimes necessary for the safety of the facility or individual inmates themselves and that AB2632 would likely result in placements that are less safe to other inmates and staff, according to an analysis of the bill.

Salesh Prasad, who immigrated to the U.S. from Fiji at the age of 6, has spent time in solitary confinement at both state-run facilities and at a for-profit immigration detention center. He is currently detained at Golden State Annex, a private immigration detention facility run by the GEO Group.

When Prasad arrived at Golden State last year, he was placed in solitary confinement because his safety was jeopardized due to a work-related dispute  another inmate wanted his job, and he feared he might be attacked.

The only option here was to put me in solitary, he said. They put you in cells that are disgustingly filthy. It's just horrible. It's pure misery.

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Though they are not specifically mentioned in AB2632, immigrants being detained at in-state private facilities partnered with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement would be better protected should the bill pass, Knox said.

Cory Salzillo, legislative director for the California Sheriffs Association, said setting rules for solitary confinement is better decided and considered by the Board of State and Community Corrections, an entity that regulates detention facilities.

The board does not use the term solitary confinement in its regulations but does lay out rules for placing detained people in cells by themselves, which it calls separation. The BSCC declined to comment on AB2632, but Communications Director Tracie Cone said the board is considering significant changes to its separation policies.

Separation must be an option of last resort for the shortest time possible and with the least restrictive conditions possible, Cone wrote in an email.

If approved by the board and the Office of Administrative Law, the changes would rein in the use of solitary confinement for disciplinary purposes starting in 2023. Per the new regulations, a disciplinary facility shouldnt just jump to putting a person into disciplinary separation without proper due process after a rules violation, Cone wrote.

But AB2632 would go further by placing specific limits on how long and how often someone could be placed in solitary confinement and by taking it off the table for certain populations.

It would end long-term confinement scenarios like what Michael Saavedra experienced.

Saavedra spent over 19 years behind bars on an armed robbery charge. For 15 consecutive years, he was placed in solitary confinement after prison officials found hed drawn an Aztec symbol and concluded he was affiliated with a prison gang.

While incarcerated, Saavedra organized three hunger strikes between 2011 and 2013 to protest long-term solitary confinement. He was released in 2017 and will complete his undergraduate degree at UCLA this year.

In prison, were segregated by race, Saavedra said. Part of our ability to create a mass movement like that meant putting aside our hostilities and disagreements to stand in solidarity for a common goal.

Camryn Pak is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: camryn.pak@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @camrynpak
Authorities ramped up their search for a missing girl two days after she disappeared from the Prosser Family Campground in Truckee, during a party that drew more than 100 people.

Sixteen-year-old Kiely Rodni was last seen at the gathering around 12:30 a.m. Saturday morning, according to social media posts from the Placer County Sheriffs Office. Her silver 2013 Honda CRV also vanished, and her phone went silent after she attended the party, the post said.

In a series of anguished Facebook posts, Rodnis mother, Lindsey Rodni-Nieman, described the desperate search for her teenage daughter, and the despair after each day passed with no promising leads.

We spent the day at the rec center passing out flyers to people who posted them near and far, one post read, adding that law enforcement had begun treating the case as a possible abduction, which made more resources available.

On Monday, Rodni-Nieman asked search parties to meet at the Truckee Recreation Center wearing white shirts to identify themselves. Rodni-Nieman was not immediately available for comment.

The sheriffs office said Monday that it deployed a helicopter that would fly over Interstate 80 between Donner Summit and the Nevada border, as teams on the ground scour the area around Prosser Lake. Placer County is now coordinating with several other law enforcement agencies, including the Nevada County Sheriffs Office, the California Highway Patrol, Truckee Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigations.

We are trying to use as many resources as possible, Placer sheriff spokesperson Angela Musallam said, pointing to the unsettling timeline: A 16-year-old girl goes to a party, communicates that she was going to leave but is not seen leaving.

The sheriff opted to classify Rodnis disappearance as a possible abduction solely because we have not been able to locate her vehicle, Musallam said.

Officials have asked anyone with information to call the sheriffs tip line at 530-581-6320 and press option 7.

Rachel Swan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: rswan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rachelswan
TRUCKEE, Nevada County  The massive search for a missing Truckee teen continued Tuesday afternoon, with law enforcement officials pleading with the hundreds of teens and young adults who attended the party where Kiely Rodni was last seen Saturday morning to come forward with information.

Out of the 200 to 300 people that were at the party, somebody knows something about Kiely, Angela Musallam, a sheriffs spokesperson said at a press briefing and community meeting Tuesday afternoon at the Truckee Community Recreation Center.

While sheriffs officials said they have received more than 100 tips  and are investigating each one  theyve received little information from those attending the party, an unofficial event that apparently swelled from a small gathering of friends to a raging party.

Some of those partygoers may be afraid to step forward, because drugs and alcohol were consumed at the party, and some attendees parents may not have known they were present, law enforcement officials said. But Scott Alford, a detective sergeant with the Placer County Sheriff's Department, said thats not the focus of the investigation.

We are not investigating their conduct that night, he said, turning to some of the many teens in the audience. We are not investigating you; we are partnering with you to find Keily.

Hoping to shake loose some useful tips from the partygoers, Rodnis friend, Sami Smith, 18, was inviting young people to informal teen-to-teen talks without parents, police or other adults present. One was held immediately after the afternoon briefing with about 15 to 20 teens, mostly girls, sticking around to talk.

I see a lot of faces here. I know a lot of you. We go to school together, Smith said as the briefing broke up. Please come talk to us right now.

Little new information was disclosed at the news briefing. Alford said that the FBI, which is assisting in the case, determined that Rodnis cell phone was last in use at 12:33 a.m.

He also said that while the case is described as a possible abduction, its only been labeled that way because both Kiely and her silver Honda CRX are still missing.

Right now we dont have any evidence that supports an abduction, Alford said. Because we dont know, we are not ruling any possibility out.

Scores of law enforcement officers, three teams in helicopters and dozens of volunteers continued to scour the Lake Tahoe area and beyond Tuesday for Rodni.

She was last seen at the Prosser Family Campground in Truckee around 12:30 a.m. Saturday. The party  which had been promoted on social media, including Snapchat  drew more than 100 people, according to the Sheriffs Office, and as many as 250, from as far away as the Bay Area, according to organizers.

We just want her home, Rodnis mother, Lindsey Rodni-Nieman said in a video posted to the sheriffs Twitter account. Were so scared, and we miss her so much. And we love her so much.

I want nothing more than to hug you, Rodni-Nieman added, speaking directly to her daughter.

A number of law enforcement agencies are assisting Placer County with the search, including the Nevada County Sheriffs Office, the California Highway Patrol, Truckee Police, Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Three helicopters were searching for Rodni and her vehicle, and 77 personnel have been assigned to the search.

Smith, who helped organize the party, is helping coordinate volunteer search efforts. She said she spent most of the night at the party with Rodni and was the last known person to speak with her at about 12:25 a.m.

Smith planned to leave the party but said Rodni planned to stay. But no one saw her walk to her car or drive away, Smith said. Rodnis cell phone has been out of service since the party, sheriffs officials said.

We are leaving no stone unturned, said Musallam, and we are exploring every possibility at this point. We are really looking.

After the briefing, a community member gathered a large group of teenagers, parents and Truckee residents and led them in prayer.

We are praying for a miracle today, she said as they stood solemnly in the parking lot of the Truckee-Donner Recreation and Park District office, hands linked and eyes closed. Some parents hugged their teenage children, and others stood huddled in small groups, whispering anxiously.

As they waited for the teen meeting to begin, some talked about Kiely.

She was literally the most badass person, said Mesh Depaoli, 16. She worked with Rodni at a local boba tea shop. You could talk to her about anything, she said. She knows the solution for everything.

Abby Bunker, another co-worker, said Rodni had an illuminating presence. She walks into a room and she just makes the whole room brighter.

Its a small town. Everyone is affected by this, said Addy Carter, 17. She said she attended the Friday party but left early for volleyball tryouts.

The town just doesnt feel like Truckee anymore, Bunker added. Depaoli chimed in: The vibes are off. Everyones just on edge.

Rodni was described by authorities as a white female, blonde with hazel eyes, about 5-foot-7 and 118 pounds. She has numerous piercings, including a nose ring, and a tattoo of the number 17 on her ribs. She was last seen wearing green Dickies pants and a black tank top, according to reports. Her car, a silver 2013 Honda CRV, has California license plates with the number 8YUR127.

There is a $50,000 reward for information leading to her being found. Officials have asked anyone with information to call the sheriffs tip line at 530-581-6320 and press option 7. Anonymous tips are accepted, sheriffs officials said.

Emma Talley and Michael Cabanatuan are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: emma.talley@sfchronicle.com, mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @EmmaT332, @ctuan
On a boiling planet, its no wonder so many cultures have different expressions of icy desserts. When it gets hot, we search for a cold treat, like a primordial imperative that makes this burning world feel OK if only for a fraction of a moment. Whether thats ice cream, raspados, popsicles, soft serve, bingsu, sorbets, kakigori  all are unified by the mission of ice-cold joy.

Icy treats have an appeal across the world thats reflected in the Bay Area. Each version is its own, sourcing flavors, techniques and ingredients from its respective heritage. Bingsu, the Korean shaved ice (sometimes stylized as bingsoo), involves freezing a block of ice and cream and shaving ribbons into a lush, smooth consistency. For kakigori and Hawaiian shave ice, ice blocks are sliced and flavored with syrups and fruit purees. Persian ice cream infuses dairy with saffron threads and pistachios. Filipino halo halo seems to combine it all in an ultimate sundae.

Instead of (foolishly and reductively) trying to sort out the best style of ice cream, Im recommending my favorite Bay Area treats that bring cold pleasure. Some come from restaurants, like the Charter Oak in St. Helena or Lavash in San Francisco, while others hail from dedicated sweets shops, like Kamurocho in Pleasanton, UC Dessert in Oakland and Belmont Fruit Snacks in Belmont. The flavors range from fruity and tart to creamy and sweet to even spicy and acidic.

Here are 10 fun ways to cool down with some frosty happiness.

Kakigori

Cesar Hernandez/The Chronicle

Kamurocho

It gets particularly hot in the valley where Pleasanton lies, and one of the simplest ways to cool down can be found at Kamurocho. The intimate shop has many sweet coffee and boba drinks as well as a roster of kakigoris, the Japanese style of shaved ice. The one that stands out is the mango ($11.50) version, where soft, fluffy ribbons of ice are covered in fruit puree. Its tangy and sweet but not overbearing, with the occasional small chunk of mango. You can find a spot inside, which is decorated with framed Pokemon cards, or try your luck with the elements outside. Eat quickly, though: Heat is the worst enemy of shaved ice, especially if exposed to the sun.

5321 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton. 8:30 a.m-6 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday., 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 925-425-7129

Bingsu

Cesar Hernandez/The Chronicle

U :Dessert Story

U :Dessert Story has two dessert houses, one in San Francisco and one in Berkeley. It has the vibe of a sit-down boba and dessert joint where Top 40 music hits and K-pop play in rapid succession. The menu is expansive, full of Korean, Japanese and Thai treats from mille crepe cakes to mochi waffles to a litany of matcha drinks, cheese foam teas, coffee and even booze. The menu and aesthetic can be a little overwhelming, but the shaved ice is an icy distraction. I like to go for the strawberry cheesecake bingsu ($17), where a mound of soft shaved ice is topped with ruby-red strawberry puree, Greek yogurt and almonds. Small cheesecake cubes play hide-and-seek in the ice. There are over a dozen options to try, including several vegan ones, and some really wild combinations in Berkeley like one thats made with beer and another that adds bacon.

3489 16th St., San Francisco. 3-10 p.m. Monday-Friday, 1-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. 1849 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley. 3-10 p.m. Monday-Friday. 1-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. udessertstory.com

Don Feria/Special to The Chronicle

UC Dessert

There I was, sitting alone, eating a warm bowl of black sesame paste with mochi balls filled with the same stuff when I fell in love with UC Dessert. Its a quiet place to get both warm and cold desserts. The black tea bingsu ($12) is a wonderful, not-too-sweet, milk tea-based shaved ice. It has the high caffeine characteristics of a Hong Kong milk tea but without the excess sugar. The tiny shards of beige ice form a small hill surrounded by toasted almonds and a side of chewy boba and wiggly grass jelly. Depending on my mood, Ill go for the mango bingsu ($12) topped with tangy puree, sago (tiny balls made from palm starch) and coconut milk. The dessert shop is located in the heart of Oaklands Chinatown and stays open late for an evening thrill.

388 Ninth St., Suite 159, Oakland. Noon-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m-11 p.m. Friday-Sunday. ucdessert.com

Hawaiian shave ice

Cesar Hernandez/The Chronicle

Diamond Head General Store

Equal parts Hawaiian convenience store, shave ice shop and plate lunch restaurant, this San Bruno spot does it all. Inside of the multi-function joint, youll spot racks full of bagged candy, Japanese ingredients, pancake mix and other assorted snacks. The wall above the register has the list of shave ice syrups you can choose from. I suggest skipping the colored sugar water and going for the rotating fruit purees ($10). Create lively, fruity combinations like mango and strawberry, a half red and half yellow ice globe topped with condensed milk ($1) and mochi ($1), for a mix of tanginess, creaminess and sweetness. The unflavored mochi provides a chewy respite from the flavored snow. Make sure to also get a lunch plate like the jumbo garlic shrimp ($25), which comes with fat scoops of rice and macaroni salad on a paper plate.

260 El Camino Real, San Bruno. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. 650-636-4007

Raspados

Cesar Hernandez/The Chronicle

Belmont Fruit and Snacks

This shop is like if Willy Wonka decided to get into the antojitos game. Here youll find Mexican snacks like paletas, bionicos, prepared fruit, fresas con crema, micheaguas, elotes, ice cream, waffles, the list goes on. Instead of a traditional raspado (shaved ice), try the diablito ($8), a concoction of shredded ice and tamarind puree fortified with lime juice chamoy, hot sauce and a sprinkle of Tajin seasoning for good measure. This cold treat in a cup explodes with tart, spicy and sweet flavors, moving into savory dessert territory. If that sounds like too much, try the creminieve ($9). Its an interpolation of the frescas con crema form that adds strawberry milk-based ice cream, which has a lovely, almost-grainy texture. Enjoy your icy treats inside or outside.

1020 Sixth Ave., Belmont. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. belmontfruitandsnaksca.com

Halo halo

Cesar Hernandez/The Chronicle

Guava Island Treats

Upon entering downtown Walnut Creek sweets shop Guava Island Eats, youll be asked if you want to try the halo halo. Its not on the menu, but the staff tells me its the most popular item, and for good reason. Guava Islands halo halo ($14) is the sundae to end all sundaes, with close to over a dozen ingredients. It reads like a grocery shopping list for a sundae-themed potluck: toasted coconut, ube puree, ube and jackfruit ice creams, shaved ice, lychee jellies, red beans and a splash of half-and-half to loosen things up. The treat shops interior is decorated with light-colored wood, palm leaf wallpaper and a back wall covered in foliage and an island vibes sign  you know, for social media.

1506 N Main St., Walnut Creek. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m Sunday. guavaeats.com

Ice cream and soft serve

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Courtesy Kelly Puleio

The Charter Oak

The Charter Oak might be best known for its roaring wood-fired grill and bread made from a sourdough starter thats older than me. But theres one item that punctates many meals: the soft serve ($12), which gets its tan color from burnt vanilla beans. Its topped with what might appear to be caramel syrup, but that toasty, slick sauce is actually pecan oil and a sprinkle of sea salt. It lends an extra nutty flavor to the treat and accomplishes all the feats of a sundae without the extra sugar youd normally get from caramel or fudge. Even the ice cream has a bit of smoke coursing through it, as will your shirt and hair after your dinner, like a wistful reminder of a past lover.

1050 Charter Oak Ave., St Helena. 11:30 a.m-8:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday. thecharteroak.com

Cesar Hernandez/The Chronicle

De La Creamery

De La Creamery is an ice cream maker that specializes in Mexican flavors. You can sample these ice creams at pop-ups around the Bay Area, or go to Tahona Market in San Francisco to snag a pint. The flavors are swaddled in nostalgia like cafe de olla, modeled after the spiced Mexican coffee, and gansito, which swirls the popular chocolate-covered cake snack of the same name, in vanilla ice cream. But I want to bring your attention to a simple option: horchata ($13 per pint). The ice cream is silky but almonds, rice and cinnamon give it a pleasant, almost sandy, consistency. Its like trying horchata for the first time, except this one doesnt get watered down by ice. You can also find De Las creme fraiche flavor featured in one of the desserts at Oakland bar Slug.

delacreamery.com . Sold at Tahona Market: 1168 Leavenworth St., San Francisco. Noon-8 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Cesar Hernandez/The Chronicle

Lavash

The Sunset District is ripe with food and dessert options, but only Lavash offers bastani, Persian ice cream. Opened in 2008, the restaurant has two options: a golden scoop made with saffron, rosewater and pistachios ($7) and another made with pomegranate and chocolate ($7). The former is an elegant combination of aromatics, smooth cream and nuts that avoids the excess sugar of American ice cream. Fresh, locally made Persian ice cream in the Bay Area is a rarity, so Lavash made me miss the dedicated ice cream shops in Los Angeles Little Tehran. Dont sleep on the food either  its one of Soleil Hos top Middle Eastern restaurants. But if you dont want to eat, you can order the ice cream for takeout as you stroll through the area.

511 Irving St., San Francisco. 5-9 p.m Tuesday-Friday, noon-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. lavashsf.com

Courtesy Dana M. Chang / Lion Dance Cafe

Lion Dance Cafe

Aside from having some of the best vegan food in the region, Oaklands Lion Dance also sells showstopping sundae kits consisting of a pint and toppings. There are two options to choose from, both inspired by co-owner C-Y Chias childhood. The first is the coconut pandan sundae, which is modeled after cendol,a Southeast Asian dessert with shaved iced, coconut and pandan jellies. In place of gula jawa (palm sugar), Lion Dance reaches for piloncillo (unrefined sugar), and instead of shaved ice, it uses young coconut ice cream from Curbside Creamery. Its garnished with salty potato chips that are dusted with soy bean powder. The other, nuttier option is the chile peanut kit. In it goes vanilla ice cream with chile-lime peanuts and fudgy peanut caramel fragrant with makrut lime. Both display a daring attitude that isnt afraid to mix spicy and acidic flavors with ice cream, only its all vegan. In the future, Chia hopes to procure an ice shaver to add more colorful combinations to the dessert menu.

380 17th St., Oakland. 5-8:30 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. liondancecafe.com

Cesar Hernandez is The San Francisco Chronicles associate restaurant critic. Email: cesar.hernandez@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @cesarischafa
Haus, a popular, Sonoma County aperitif brand seemingly poised for major success, has announced that it will cease operations after wine conglomerate Constellation Brands suddenly pulled out of the companys fundraising campaign.

Constellation had offered Haus $10 million in funding, but rescinded the offer when the fortified wine company ran out of cash before the deal could be finalized, according to Haus co-founder Helena Price Hambrecht. Fans of the brand have one month to stock up on their favorite Haus aperitifs, said Hambrecht  though its possible the brand could still be acquired by another owner. Constellation didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Founded in 2019 by Hambrecht and her ex-husband Woody Hambrecht (formerly of Alysian Winery in Healdsburg), Haus was at the forefront of the recent low-ABV and aperitif booms in the U.S. Bottled in trendy white ceramic vessels with a serif font, Haus aromatic vermouths  like Ginger Yuzu and Grapefruit Jalapeno  have quickly become a staple on bar carts across the country for use in spritzes and other cocktails.

Hambrecht recalled those early days of the low-ABV trend as a tidal wave that was about to hit.

Courtesy Cody Guilfoyle

Haus took an unconventional, start-up inspired approach to the wine business, securing funding from venture capitalists. By combining chic and modern packaging with bold, 1970s-inspired marketing imagery, the brand expertly harnessed the Millennial aesthetic at a time when traditional wine producers have been grappling to find new ways to attract that generation of drinkers. In a few short years, Haus surpassed $10 million in sales, and recently launched national distribution across 20 states, which Hambrecht said shed hoped Constellation could help them supercharge. The company was going to contribute cash and sales teams for the effort.

But Haus ascent hit a snag during the diligence part of the Constellation deal. While the conglomerate sifted through Haus compliance records, Haus ran out of its own funds. If we had another year of cash in the bank it wouldnt be over, Hambrecht claimed. Its extremely hard to fundraise when youre low on cash. Youre seen as a vulnerable business.

While Haus goal was to be profitable in 2023, Hambrecht pointed to a constant stream of curveballs, like the pandemic and supply chain cost increases, that limited cash flow. The fundraising landscape has also shifted with a cooling market to more conservative practices, she said, and shes concerned that many young start-ups will soon find themselves in a similar predicament.

This isnt necessarily the end of the once high-flying company. Haus could still live on under new ownership. The brand will now be put up for sale through a process called Assignments for the Benefit of Creditors (ABC). A voluntary alternative to bankruptcy, this is when assets are transferred to a firm, which then takes the company through an accelerated sales process in an effort to secure investors the biggest return possible.

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Hambrecht described the situation as emotionally brutal, but is hopeful that Haus will end up in capable hands  maybe even Constellations, she suggested.

As for the aperitif market at large? Hambrecht is confident itll continue on its fast, upward trajectory, with or without Haus. I hope that brands arent discouraged by whats happening to us. I think its really just getting started, she said. I hope people feel inspired to keep innovating in the space because people really want it.

Jess Lander is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jess.lander@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jesslander
With wastewater surveillance already proving to be a vital tool in tracking coronavirus levels in California, scientists are now looking to sewage to help them detect monkeypox and other diseases.

Researchers at Stanford University announced last Friday that they are using the sewage monitoring lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic to lead a nationwide initiative to monitor the spread of infectious diseases including monkeypox, influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus.

The effort will soon include tracking of the polio virus as well, given the outbreak now stirring concern in New York, researchers said.

They hope that effluent from wastewater systems will offer early alerts to help public health officials head off disease outbreaks. The monitoring project is a partnership between researchers at Stanford and colleagues at Emory University.

Paul Chinn/The Chronicle 2020

We have been working with regional plants to stand up our wastewater surveillance, and the most important thing was the encouraging results, said Alexandria Boehm, professor of civil and environmental engineering at Stanford.

Focusing on effluent provides a look at anything that goes down the drain and a little bit from each person, she added.

Called WastewaterSCAN, the initiative substantially bolsters the public reporting developed by scientists at Stanford and nearly a dozen Northern California communities to measure viral genetic material in the effluent through the Sewer Coronavirus Alert Network that has been running since November 2020.

Stanford has expanded its monitoring from 11 regional sites to 38 treatment plants in eight states. The team hopes to scale up the efforts to 300 locales in partnership with the National League of Cities.

The WastewaterSCAN system detected the first genetic markers of the monkeypox virus in wastewater in the United States  two cases in plants serving San Francisco  on June 20, a day after the researchers began testing for it.

Once the infrastructure is in place, its easy to add testing for a new emerging illness, said Boehm. It doesnt require people to change their behavior or go out and take new tests. Its a composite sample from the community that you can interrogate for any infectious disease.

While untreated sewage does not offer a perfect measure of virus presence, it provides a relatively stable way to help public health officials monitor the emergence of everything from illicit drugs to pollutants to disease.

Early in the pandemic, wastewater surveillance revealed a significant surge of the coronavirus in Yosemite, before anyone there reported being sick. Last year, UC Davis also expanded its sewage sampling sites to track infection spikes.

In 2013, wastewater tests identified a polio flare-up in northern Israel, helping authorities get a jump on containing the outbreak.

There is now increasing urgency in the U.S. to expand polio monitoring after New York state health officials issued a call last week for unvaccinated children and adults to get inoculated against the feared illness, citing new evidence of possible community spread.

The polio virus has been found in seven different wastewater samples in two adjacent counties north of New York City, health officials said. That indicates just the tip of the iceberg of much greater potential spread, according to the states health commissioner, Dr. Mary T. Bassett.

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The Stanford team hopes its new initiative can help other regions stay ahead of potential outbreaks.

The quick turnaround of wastewater surveillance testing  typically less than 24 hours  and its ability to capture infection across an entire community offers a real-time depiction of pathogen prevalence, said Marlene Wolfe, assistant professor of environmental health at Emory University and co-principal investigator for WastewaterSCAN.

We need to rethink our paradigm for tracking infectious disease and anticipating new threats, she said. We take the same sample of wastewater solids that were already collecting  its less than half a gram that represents up to millions of people in a community  and do a slightly different test for the next variant or the next pathogen.

Participating wastewater plants take samples three times a week and provide those to a laboratory operated by Verily Life Sciences for genomic analysis.

The results appear on a public website within 48 hours.

Together with Stanford and Emory scientists, we have created shareable, open-access protocols that enable knowledge transfer between academic, industrial, and government labs  and helps unlock a life-saving, new approach for viral disease surveillance, Bradley White, lead scientist on Verilys public health efforts, said in a statement.

Aidin Vaziri (he/him) is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: avaziri@sfchronicle.com
UPDATE: Here are the latest updates on COVID in the Bay Area and California.

The alarming spread of omicron subvariants has again put a spotlight on how well COVID-19 rapid antigen tests work at this stage in the pandemic. Many ultra-wealthy people who left San Francisco in the early days of the pandemic decamped to ritzy ski towns. Coronavirus case rates and positive tests rates are steadily declining in California and the Bay Area, signaling that the region is finally on the downside of this summers record-long COVID-19 surge

Latest updates:

Michigan governor infected

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has tested positive for COVID-19. The Democratic governor said in a statement that she tested positive for the virus Monday evening and is experiencing mild symptoms. Whitmer said she plans to follow proper guidance and protocols, while maintaining a remote schedule. I am grateful for the support of my family, my staff, and the vaccine for offering me robust protection against the virus, Whitmer said. She said she is fully vaccinated and has received two booster shots. I encourage my fellow Michiganders to get vaccinated and boosted, Whitmer said.

More than 1 in 8 California children lag on routine vaccinations

With New York state health officials last week calling for unvaccinated children and adults to get inoculated against polio, citing new evidence of possible community spread of the dangerous virus, California health officials are urging residents to compensate for any needed immunizations delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the new school year approaches, more than one in eight children in California need to catch up on routine vaccines that were missed or delayed during the pandemic, the California Department of Health told The Chronicle, noting that vaccination rates, including for polio vaccine, decreased during the initial period of the COVID-19 pandemic. But they added that longstanding school immunization requirements have assisted with preventing most children in the state from falling too far behind.

During a Grand Rounds webinar with health professionals on Tuesday, Dr. Erica Pan, the California state epidemiologist, reiterated that vaccination against COVID-19 would not be required for the 2022-23 school year. Time will tell what will happen next year, she said, but added her belief that vaccine protection against the coronavirus remains important. This disease causes a lot more hospitalizations and deaths, she said, referring to COVID-19. I do think its very important.

California is hopefully at the tail end of surge, top official says

Dr. Erica Pan, the California state epidemiologist, on Tuesday expressed optimism that coronavirus infection trends will continue dropping from its summer peak in July, saying,I think we are hopefully at the tail end of this most recent surge. At a virtual forum sponsored by the California Medical Association, she also sounded a hopeful note on hospitalization trends. Hospitalizations increased a bit but are plateauing, she said. About three quarters of California counties remain in the "high" category for coronavirus transmission, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, down from 99% on July 21. While the most recent sublineages of the omicron coronavirus variant have been highly transmissable and infections remain high, these strains have not caused as much serious illness as early coronarvirus variants, especially before the roll out of vaccines.

Poll shows older adults want updated fall booster shot

Most vaccinated older American adults are looking to get the updated coronavirus booster shot that is expected to come out in the fall, a new national survey from the University of Michigan found. Some 61% of those over 50 who have received at least one vaccine dose said they are very likely to do so, with the number rising to 68% for those over 65, as well as for Black adults over 50. About 17% of people over 50 said they are not likely to get a booster this fall. The vaccines weve had since late 2020 have saved countless lives and made COVID-19 much less serious for millions worldwide. We also know that those who got at least one booster dose have done better than others in the Omicron variant era, the polls director and infectious disease physician Preeti Malani said in a news release.

Californias COVID-19 positive test rate confirms improving trends

California's average coronavirus test positive rate, which tracks the number of tests coming back positive, dropped to 12.7% on Tuesday, marking a steady decline from a summer high of 16.3% in July. While infectious disease experts say the rate should be under 5% to effectively control the spread of the virus, it is one of the several factors indicating the state is on the down side of its latest COVID-19 surge. California is averaging about 34 daily cases per 100,000 residents, down from about 48 per 100,000 a month ago, according to data published Tuesday by the state's health department. Hospitalizations remain high, with 4,368 confirmed COVID-19 patients statewide as of Friday, compared to 3,749 a month earlier.

Pandemic-era aid for Americans with Obamacare coverage is poised for extension

Beefed up tax credits for Americans who buy health coverage through the Affordable Care Act exchanges, passed last year in the Democrats' coronavirus aid bill, are slated to expire at the end of this year. But they will be extended if the economic package that's poised for final congressional passage this week is enacted. The Inflation Reduction Act would extend the enhanced aid through 2025 for roughly 13 million Americans, the Washington Post reports. Without that assistance, roughly 3 million people who receive health coverage through the ACAs insurance exchanges could be priced out of the market and potentially become uninsured. Nearly 9 million people could lose hundreds of dollars in financial help per year if the assistance wasnt extended, according to a March report from the Department of Health and Human Services.

Biden has a cough but not COVID, White House says

Despite coughing his way through a speech on the South Lawn, President Biden continues to test negative for COVID-19, the White House press office said on Tuesday. The 79-year-old president, speaking at a signing event for the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, repeatedly paused to cough while making his remarks, raising speculation about his health and recovery from the virus on social media. The president tested negative for COVID yesterday and this morning, the White House press office said after the event. That was four days in a row of negative results for Biden after his rebound COVID bout, according to the White House.

Childrens COVID-19 cases are up for the fifth consecutive week

There were 96,599 confirmed child COVID-19 cases in the U.S. last week, marking the fifth week straight infections have ticked up, according to data published Monday by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Childrens Hospital Association. Cases among children under 18 in the U.S. have remained stubbornly high throughout the summer after dropping to around 25,000 a week in April. Many schools will begin the new academic year without any virus mitigation measures.

Novavax cites low demand for vaccine as its shares plummet

Novavax cut its full-year revenue forecast by half on Monday, citing low demand for its COVID-19 shot, Reuters reports. The announcement sent the vaccine maker's shares down 36% in extended trading after it said it expects revenues of $2 billion to $2.3 billion compared to earlier predictions of $4 billion to $5 billion for the year. The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine received approval from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in July. Unlike the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines that use an mRNA-based approach to developing immunity, the Novavax vaccine uses traditional protein-based technology, an option officials hoped would draw more people who haven't yet been vaccinated. The vaccine is available to adults 18 and older as a primary dose, but it is not available as a booster at this time.

BA.5 holds dominance, making up 87% of U.S. cases

The highly transmissible BA.5 strain of the omicron coronavirus variant made up about 87.1% of the sequenced coronavirus cases in the United States last week, according to data published Tuesday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The newest sublineage of the variant, BA.4.6, made up 4.8% of cases nationally, and BA.4 was sequenced in an additional 6.6% -- roughly the same proportions reported last week for each sublineage. The U.S. is averaging about 107,615 new confirmed COVID-19 cases per day.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Updated to include drought zones while tracking water shortage status of your area, plus reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Famous Potala Palace shuttered after small outbreak in Tibet

Chinese authorities have closed Tibets famed Potala Palace after a minor outbreak of COVID-19 was reported in the Himalayan region. The response underscores Chinas continued adherence to its zero-COVID policy, mandating lockdowns, routine testing, quarantines and travel restrictions, even while most other countries have reopened. A notice on the palaces Weixin social media said the majestic hilltop palace, traditional home of Tibets Buddhist leaders, would be closed from Tuesday, with a reopening date to be announced later. Tibets economy is heavily dependent on tourism and the Potala is a key draw. China says its hard-line policy has prevented large-scale hospitalizations and deaths, while the World Health Organization and other critics have decried its economic and societal impacts, saying it is out of step with the changing nature of the virus and new prevention and treatment methods.

Sewage helped chart Bay Area COVID spread. Can it do the same for monkeypox and polio?

With wastewater surveillance already proving to be a vital tool in tracking coronavirus levels in California, scientists are now looking to sewage to help them detect monkeypox and other diseases. Researchers at Stanford University announced last week they were using the sewage monitoring lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic to lead a nationwide initiative to monitor the spread of infectious diseases including monkeypox, influenza A and respiratory syncytial virus.

Can COVID rapid tests really detect if youre contagious with new omicron variants?

Rapid antigen tests for COVID-19 may not be as sensitive as PCR tests in detecting the coronavirus, but they remain an effective way to diagnose infection, Bay Area experts say. They are quicker and easier than PCR tests, but also less sensitive and therefore more prone to inaccurate results, experts say. Read more about home coronavirus tests, including their use with BA.5 infection and how to use them effectively.

Study: In-class transmission all but eliminated by mask and vaccination mandates

Vaccination and masking mandates cut out more than 99.99% of in-class transmission of the coronavirus, a study of 140,000 in-person class meetings among 33,000 students at Boston University found. According to the study published in JAMA, only nine in-class transmission cases were identified among the 850 confirmed COVID-19 student cases in the fall 2021 semester. Universities returning to normal functioning need an effective model for overall disease transmission safety, researchers wrote. Our data support the hypothesis that a combination of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and risk mitigation measures including indoor masking, regular surveillance testing, and enhanced air filtration can be highly effective at limiting disease spread within a large university academic environment to the extent that classroom transmission risk is negligible.

COVID sewage lessons carrying over to other disease monitoring

The lessons of wastewater monitoring as a tool to help evaluate community presence of COVID-19 are being used in Marin County for surveillance on monkeypox and other illness, a release from public health officials said. Stanford University's WastewaterSCAN initiative is helping Marin and other Bay Area counties monitor the sewage water for COVID-19, monkeypox, and seasonal viruses like the flu. People infected with monkeypox are likely to shed the virus in their urine and feces, as well as from lesions and oral secretions. This makes monkeypox a good candidate for monitoring in wastewater and detecting its presence in the community, county officials said.

These charts show where S.F.s wealthiest people moved in the pandemic

Ultra-wealthy people who left San Francisco during the pandemics first, frightening wave largely decamped to ritzy ski towns, according to data from the Internal Revenue Service. The county that saw the wealthiest movers from San Francisco on average was Teton County, Wyoming, home to Jackson Hole and its famed ski resorts.

Vaccine success? Absolutely, says UCSFs Monica Gandhi

Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease expert at UCSF, had a look-on-the-bright-side riposte for Geraldo Rivera, who on Sunday tweeted about getting COVID despite vaccination. Rivera wrote: 2 vaccinations, 2 boosters, 2nd COVID, 0 symptoms, sucks. The broadcast reporter and commentator in the past has praised vaccines and criticized people who refuse vaccination against COVID. But if his tweet in any way left an impression that vaccines didnt do their job, Gandhi was having none of it. She tweeted: @GeraldoRivera, vaccine success! Vaccines are amazingly good at preventing severe disease & death. N. Pelosi had no symptoms; Pres. Biden has 2 days mild symptoms; we never tested those without symptoms after vax for a respiratory pathogen before; US- lets not undermine vax!
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BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP)  The white father and son who chased and killed Ahmaud Arbery in a Georgia neighborhood each received a second life prison sentence Monday  for committing federal hate crimes, months after getting their first for murder  at a hearing that brought a close to more than two years of criminal proceedings.

U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood handed down the sentences against Travis McMichael, 36, and his father, Greg McMichael, 66, reiterating the gravity of the February 2020 killing that shattered their Brunswick community. William Roddie Bryan, 52, who recorded cellphone video of the slaying, was sentenced to 35 years in prison.

A young man is dead. Ahmaud Arbery will be forever 25. And what happened, a jury found, happened because hes Black, Wood said.

The McMichaels were previously sentenced to life without parole in state court for Arberys murder and had asked the judge to divert them to a federal prison to serve their sentences, saying they were worried about their safety in the state prison system. Bryan had sought to serve his federal sentence first. Wood declined all three requests.

The sentences imposed Monday brought an end to the second trial against the men responsible for Arberys slaying, which along with the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and fatal shooting of Breonna Taylor in Kentucky fueled a wave of protests across the country against the killings of unarmed Black people.

The Justice Departments prosecution of this case and the courts sentences today make clear that hate crimes have no place in our country, and that the Department will be unrelenting in our efforts to hold accountable those who perpetrate them, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a news release. Protecting civil rights and combatting white supremacist violence was a founding purpose of the Justice Department, and one that we will continue to pursue with the urgency it demands.

In February, a federal jury convicted the McMichaels and Bryan of violating Arberys civil rights, concluding they targeted him because of his race. All three were also found guilty of attempted kidnapping, and the McMichaels were convicted of using guns in the commission of a violent crime.

The McMichaels armed themselves with guns and used a pickup truck to chase Arbery after he ran past their home on Feb. 23, 2020. Bryan, a neighbor, joined the pursuit in his own truck and recorded cellphone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery with a shotgun. The McMichaels told police they suspected Arbery was a burglar, but investigators determined he was unarmed and had committed no crimes.

Im very thankful, Arberys mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones, told reporters outside the courthouse after all three sentences had been imposed. Its been a long fight. Im so thankful God gave us the strength to continue to fight.

The hearings marked the first time the men involved in the deadly chase expressed any remorse to Arberys family. Only Travis McMichael, who fired the fatal shots, chose to remain silent when given a chance to speak in court.

Greg McMichael told Arbery's family their loss was beyond description.

Im sure my words mean very little to you, but I want to assure you I never wanted any of this to happen, he said. There was no malice in my heart or my sons heart that day.

Bryan said he was sorry.

I never intended any harm to him, and I never would have played any role in what happened if I knew then what I know now," Bryan said.

In giving Bryan a lower sentence, Wood noted he had not brought a gun to the pursuit of Arbery and preserved his cellphone video, which was crucial to the prosecutions.

Travis McMichael's attorney, Amy Lee Copeland, said a lighter sentence would be more consistent with what similarly charged defendants have received in other cases, noting that the officer who killed Floyd in Minneapolis, Derek Chauvin, got 21 years in prison for violating Floyds civil rights, though he was not charged with targeting Floyd because of his race.

Greg McMichael's attorney, A.J. Balbo, also cited the Chauvin sentence as well as his client's age and health problems, which he said include a stroke and depression.

During the February hate crimes trial, prosecutors fortified their case that Arberys killing was motivated by racism by showing the jury roughly two dozen text messages and social media posts in which Travis McMichael and Bryan used racist slurs and made disparaging comments about Black people.

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Prosecutor Christopher Perras said the trial evidence proved "what so many people felt in their hearts when they watched the video of Ahmauds tragic and unnecessary death: This would have never happened if he had been white.

A state Superior Court judge imposed life sentences for the McMichaels and Bryan in January for Arbery's murder, with both McMichaels denied any chance of parole. All three defendants have remained jailed in coastal Glynn County, in the custody of U.S. marshals, while awaiting sentencing after their federal convictions.

Because they were first charged and convicted of murder in a state court, they will be turned over to the Georgia Department of Corrections to serve their life terms in a state prison.

Copeland argued unsuccessfully for Travis McMichael to remain in federal custody, saying he has received hundreds of threats that he will be killed soon after arriving at state prison and that his photo has been circulated there on illegal phones.

I am concerned your honor that my client effectively faces a back door death penalty," she said, adding that retribution and revenge were not sentencing factors, even for a defendant who is publicly reviled.

Arberys father, Marcus Arbery Sr., said Travis McMichael had shown his son no mercy and deserved to rot" in state prison.

You killed him because he was a Black man and you hate Black people," he said. You deserve no mercy.

___

Associated Press writer Sudhin Thanawala contributed to this report from Atlanta.
Before he became the director of San Franciscos Department of Police Accountability, Paul Henderson had been a top mayoral adviser, a prosecutor, and a sought-after lecturer and media guest.

Hes also experienced racial profiling and negative stereotypes firsthand. His first day in court, as a prosecutor, he says, the judge mistook him for a defendant and lectured him about where to sit.

And rather than feel ashamed, rather than feel embarrassed, it was a shift almost into hyperdrive of: Oh, I need to show you who I am, he remembers thinking. I felt like: I need to be bigger. I need to say more.

Now, Henderson runs a city agency that audits police practices and issues policy recommendations  sometimes hundreds a year. The Department of Police Accountability also receives complaints and investigates potential officer misconduct. But he says racial disparities extend beyond law enforcement.

On this episode of Fixing Our City, Henderson lays out the kind of honest conversation and inclusive citizen participation he says it will take to meaningfully address racism in San Francisco.

Photo above: Paul Henderson at a San Francisco Police Commission meeting in 2018.
After a year of escalating warnings, Gov. Gavin Newsom is launching an unprecedented review of San Franciscos notoriously lengthy and difficult housing approval and permitting process, aimed at identifying and removing barriers to construction of new residential development in the city.

The California Department of Housing and Community Development said Tuesday that it would focus on San Francisco for its first-ever housing policy and practice review, a process that will dissect why the city has the states longest timeline for advancing housing projects and is the subject of the most complaints from Newsoms Housing Accountability Unit. The unit was created last year to alleviate Californias housing shortage by forcing cities to follow state laws in approving and permitting new housing.

We are deeply concerned about processes and political decision-making in San Francisco that delay and impede the creation of housing and want to understand why this is the case, said Housing and Community Development Director Gustavo Velasquez.

The action came a day after the state housing officials informed the city that the department had turned down the first draft of San Franciscos housing element, a legally required once-every-eight-year document that is supposed to lay out how and where California cities will build housing.

HCD has declined to certify the first draft of a vast majority of housing elements, sending them back for revisions. The city, which is statutorily obligated to have an adopted, compliant housing element by Jan. 31 of next year, will now revise the document based on HCDs feedback.

During the review  which will last at least nine months  officials from the accountability unit will collaborate with researchers form the UC Berkeley Institute of Urban and Regional Development to examine discretionary decision-making patterns that lead to abnormally long housing delays, according to statement from HCD.

The (review) will identify barriers to the approval and development of housing at all income levels, including housing that is affordable to lower- and moderate-income households, the department said.

Attorney General Rob Bonta said his department would be an active part of the review, working with state and local officials to enforce and defend state housing laws and support California families wrestling with the high cost of housing.

In California, we are facing a housing crisis of epic proportions, and its going to take all of us, working together, to solve it, Bonta said. We will continue to work with HCD to enforce our housing laws to alleviate this ongoing crisis.

While the state will eventually scrutinize other Bay Area cities, officials said it made sense to start in San Francisco, as a regional center of jobs and tourism that over the last decade has seen skyrocketing rents and housing prices.

San Francisco stands alone as an example of what is an acutely concerning pattern of delays and denial, said Jason Elliott, senior counselor to Newsom.

San Francisco Planning Director Rich Hillis said his department is already working closely with HCD on the housing element and that the additional scrutiny is welcome. He said the review would help ensure that the final draft of the citys housing element is in compliance with state law. San Franciscos housing element must show how the city plans to accommodate 82,069 units between 2023 and 2030.

They are elevating this issue and wanting to shine more of a light on it, and we get it, said Hillis. We recognize that our process is not geared toward getting housing built quickly and with certainty.

Over the last year, San Francisco has come under scrutiny for rejecting several code-compliant housing projects, including 495 units at 469 Stevenson St. and 316 units at 450 OFarrell. The accountability unit is also looking at a series of policy moves by the Board of Supervisors that the state sees as making housing more expensive and difficult to build.

Mayor London Breed said she supports the state stepping in. She has been consistently at odds with the Board of Supervisors over housing policy. Ten months ago she introduced a Cars to Casas measure aimed at streamlining redevelopment of auto-related properties  gas stations, auto body shops, oil change places  as housing. Introduced in October, the Board of Supervisors has tabled it multiple times, and it remains stuck in committee.

I welcome the solutions we need to actually get rid of the barriers and bureaucracy that stand in the way of building new housing, she said. We cannot continue to put forward the same policies that lead to little to no new housing being built and call that progress. And we cant keep blocking new housing proposals that will provide both market-rate and affordable housing. We need significant change if we are going to build enough to make housing more affordable in San Francisco.

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State Sen. Scott Wiener called the review a very important step by the state in holding San Francisco accountable for its decades of violating state housing law. He added, For many, many years the city has completely ignored and blown off state housing laws.

Wiener pointed to a series of decisions and proposals by the Board of Supervisors that delayed projects or violated state laws. He pointed to the citys version of the state fourplex legislation, and to the fact that even 100% affordable projects like 2550 Irving St. that are supposed to be expedited are politicized and brutalized.

The city continues to politicize every housing proposal and continues to force zoning-compliant housing proposals to go through years and years of review, he said. Im thrilled that the state is sending San Francisco such a clear and unequivocal message that the city must follow state law.

Supervisor Myrna Melgar said the state has been signaling that this would be coming.

I actually think they are helping us  that way they know what we have to do and if we dont do it, its a choice, she said. There is no question we have a job/housing imbalance. We have been exporting our working class for decades.

Critics of the states efforts to force local cities to step up housing production, however, say the states focus on eliminating community process  and politics  from the development approval procedures will not help working families. Charlie Sciammas, policy director of the Council of Community Housing Organizations, said that the states singular focus on removing barriers to development would lead overwhelmingly to market-rate units out of the reach of average city dwellers, leading to more displacement and homelessness.

If we are going to eliminate community process and rezone our city to facilitate a large amount of new development, 80% of which will be market-rate, we have to be prepared to live with the consequences, he said.

J.K. Dineen is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jdineen@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @sfjkdineen
A new cruise will soon pamper passengers on a unique river journey from San Francisco to Stockton, Sacramento, Napa and back  for a hefty sum.

With prices starting at $6,095, passengers will travel round trip from San Francisco to Californias capital city on an eight-day voyage dubbed the San Francisco Bay Cruise, officials from American Cruise Lines said in a news release.

The most luxurious accommodation  a grand suite with a private balcony  costs $11,680 per person.

Its the companys first cruise ever in California, officials said, with an itinerary along the San Joaquin, Napa and Sacramento rivers.

Exploring this beautiful region of Northern California by riverboat will provide a new opportunity for our guests to discover the Bay Area and the Napa Valley in an exceptional way, Charles Robertson, president and CEO of American Cruise Lines, said in the news release.

Many have driven there, but not many can say they have actually cruised through Wine Country, he said.

The first cruise is set to sail from San Francisco on Feb. 17, officials said. The eight-day itinerary includes three days in San Francisco, two in Sacramento, one day each in Napa and Stockton and one full day cruising, officials said.

Michael Macor/Special To The Chronicle

Travelers start their voyage in San Francisco with a one-day cruise through the bay. Day 2 is a stop in Stockton, which includes a visit to the Haggin Museum and the Stockton 99 Speedway. Next up is Sacramento, with a two-day itinerary including visits to the state Capitol and museums. Day 5 takes passengers to Napa, and includes a special experience at an undisclosed winery. Thats followed by a day of cruising through San Pablo Bay.

Days 7 and 8 are all about San Francisco, with visits to Alcatraz Island, Fishermans Wharf and Ghirardelli Square, officials said.

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The vessel, called the American Jazz, was launched in 2020 and has 99 rooms with a guest capacity of 190, officials said.

The American Jazz may stand apart as a luxury overnight passenger vessel plying the delta from the coast to the capital, but its not the first. The twin paddlewheelers Delta King and Delta Queen commuted between Sacramento and San Francisco from 1927 to 1940, according to the Delta Kings website.

The Delta King was renovated in the 1980s after it was partially submerged for more than a year in San Francisco Bay. It is now a hotel permanently anchored in Sacramento. The Delta Queen is docked near New Orleans awaiting restoration, according to its website.

Jessica Flores (she/her) is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jessica.flores@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @jesssmflores
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San Franciscos political war over how to fix its housing crisis just heated up, with the city now facing a lawsuit that argues one of two measures to streamline affordable housing should not be printed on the November ballot.

The complainant is San Francisco Housing Action Coalition, a nonprofit aligned with Mayor London Breed that advocates for building more homes on all income levels, and its senior adviser Todd David, who helped gather roughly 80,000 signatures to put an affordable housing streamlining measure on the ballot.

The coalition sued Department of Elections Director John Arntz and the city late Monday night over a competing measure by Supervisor Connie Chan, who said the mayors measure would not produce truly affordable housing and got support from her colleagues to put another on the ballot.

The two measures both aim to streamline production of 100% affordable housing, mixed-income projects that require more affordable units than current law, and teacher housing by cutting city red tape that can delay or kill projects. Chans measure requires a higher level of affordability and some other differences that her opponents argue will make fewer projects financially feasible.

The lawsuit claims the measure was cynically designed to counter the other and its approval process was illegal.

San Francisco has been experiencing an affordability and displacement crisis that has been the result of underproducing housing for decades, said David, who accused the Board of Supervisors of being anti-housing. This is too important to get the housing that San Franciscans need.

Chan and her supporters slammed the lawsuit Tuesday.

Its ironic that an organization that believes theres too much red tape is weaponizing red tape to drive a housing measure off the ballot, Chan wrote in a text message. We are confident they will fail and voters will choose our common sense initiative to accelerate housing production while creating more affordable housing.

Chans ally John Avalos, head of the Council of Community Housing Organizations, wrote in a text to The Chronicle that plaintiffs are grasping at straws with this desperate lawsuit.

City Attorney spokesperson Jen Kwart said the city would review and respond once served the lawsuit.

The plaintiffs have only until the week of Sept. 12, when the elections department will send the ballot books to the printer, to get a judge to rule in their favor or there will still be two similar measures before voters in November.

San Francisco is struggling with how to meet a state mandate to build 82,069 new homes between 2023 and 2030 to fix its affordable housing crisis, but politicians on opposite sides of the liberal citys narrow political spectrum continue to fight over the solution. The two ballot measures have divided advocates, unions and affordable housing developers.

Breeds camp represents traditional San Francisco moderates associated with YIMBY advocates pushing for all kinds of housing production, while Chan and many of her colleagues, part of San Franciscos progressive bastion, protest that the focus needs to be on subsidized housing. As of May, the city had built 151% of its state mandate for market-rate housing but only 48% of its affordable goal.

Breed pushed to get the measure on the ballot through signature-gathering after supervisors did not advance her previous efforts to voters.

The Housing Action Coalition is a nonprofit that says its members include developers, nonprofits and advocates. Its complaint claims Chans measure is illegal because it didnt undergo the necessary review under the California Environmental Quality Act, a.k.a. CEQA.

The claim is rich in irony because the group slams its opponents for using CEQA appeals to block housing. Appeals sometimes reach the Board of Supervisors, which can reject projects, as it did last year for a nearly 500-unit project on Stevenson Street, citing concerns about environmental impacts and gentrification.

The suit is challenging the citys Planning Department decision that the proposal didnt qualify as a project that needed review because the measure would change only how projects are reviewed and wouldnt cause either a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment. Even if it were a project, the department said it would already be covered by previous broader reviews.

The complainants pushed back that the measure could result in environmental impacts related to traffic, noise, air quality and more, and the Planning Department in the past wrote addendums to prove other projects were covered by earlier reviews. The lawsuit said skipping review was an abuse of discretion.

The Breed-backed measure isnt subject to CEQA because it got on the ballot through signature-gathering.

Avalos pointed out that when the Housing Action Coalition supported a similar measure before supervisors earlier this year, it didnt protest the Planning Departments identical decision. David said his organization would have, but supervisors killed the measure before it could.

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Breeds allies contend that Chans measure sets the bar for affordability so high that its financially infeasible. San Francisco building costs have risen so high that construction has slowed to a crawl this year.

Chan and her supporters say the mayor-backed measure wouldnt create the kind of affordable housing the city needs and will instead profit market-rate developers.

The mayor-backed measure requires a mixed-income project to meet the citys 21.5% affordable unit requirement plus another 15% more affordable units. For instance, if a project is required to have 20 affordable units, it would have to add three more to qualify.

It would allow individual units in 100% affordable housing projects to go up to 140% of the area median income, or AMI  which in July 2022 was $135,800 for a one-person household. The total project average must remain at 120%, which was $116,400. All affordable units in mixed-income projects have to be in the same tiers as existing housing policy.

Chans proposal would require 29.5% affordable units in mixed-income buildings, with at least 30% of those two-bedroom units and 20% three bedrooms. Her proposal sets the cap for affordable units at 120% of AMI, and the average household income for all units at 80%.

Avalos pointed to projects that penciled out at similar affordability levels. He mentioned Mission Rock, with 40% affordable units, and 5M in SoMa, which built 40% affordable housing that included on-site and off-site units plus fees. Mission Rock is unique because developers got a cheap lease on state land and commercial tenant Visa signed on to very high rents.

Another contentious difference between the measures is that while Chan preserves the authority for the Board of Supervisors to approve funding for 100% affordable housing projects, the Housing Action Coalition removes it.

David said keeping that step retains the risk that supervisors can delay or deny projects. Avalos said it ensures necessary checks and balances on public spending and pointed out supervisors dont have a history of rejecting 100% affordable housing.

Mallory Moench (she/her) is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mallory.moench@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @mallorymoench
MIAMI (AP) _ The Hackett Group Inc. (HCKT) on Tuesday reported second-quarter profit of $10.2 million.

The Miami-based company said it had net income of 32 cents per share. Earnings, adjusted for one-time gains and costs, were 38 cents per share.

The consulting company posted revenue of $75.9 million in the period. Its adjusted revenue was $74.8 million.

For the current quarter ending in October, Hackett Group expects its per-share earnings to range from 34 cents to 36 cents.

The company said it expects revenue in the range of $70.5 million to $72.5 million for the fiscal third quarter.

_____

This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on HCKT at https://www.zacks.com/ap/HCKT
A Beaumont pizza restaurant launched a new website that features online ordering capability.

Neches Restaurant Group's Crown Pizza, located at 5535 Calder Ave. in Beaumont, just launched its new website eatcrownpizza.com.

Crown Pizza is a sister restaurant of Willy Burger.

"Crown Pizza uses an authentic oven from Naples, Italy and makes the claim as the 'original craft pizza of

Beaumont, Texas,'" Neches Restaurant Group said in a news release Monday. "This points to the unique, eclectic mix of flavor fusions for craft pizzas including the likes of crawfish and etouffee sauce, cilantro and BBQ sauce, macaroni and cheese topped with Flamin

Hot Cheetos, and even a mustard-based cheeseburger pizza complete with pickles, onions and French fries."

RELATED: Willy Burger sees increased business after launching new website

The website is designed to be mobile friendly, full of information, has convenient links for ordering online, a new menu, videos, customer reviews and a blog with news and events, according to the news release.

The website is meant to serve as a "streamlined" menu for customers to order online, owner and CEO Dallon James said in the news release.

Theres been a sort of trend weve followed in recent years for small, local restaurants to simply rely on their social media pages in lieu of a website," James said in the news release. "And while that may be easier for small businesses, its not easier for customers to go through all the extra clicks of Facebook and third-party delivery platforms to order pizza. Were on a mission to serve our customers and be more accessible; so that means removing hurdles like these."

RELATED: 7 questions with... the owner of Willy Burger

Chief Marketing Officer Lance LaRue said in the news release the website will work to grow with the business and reflect the menus classic-meets-creative personality.

LaRue himself designed the website.

Were opening Crown Pizza in Katy very soon, we have new menu items involved, and so many things in the works, LaRue said in the news release. Our new site puts us in a strong position for serving our guests and for advancing our brand in a more strategic manner that supports rather than solely relies on social media.
NEW YORK (AP)  Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Tuesday:

Micron Technology Inc., down $2.30 to $59.15.

The chipmaker warned investors that revenue could fall short of forecasts because of weakening demand.

Take-Two Interactive Software Inc., down $4.75 to $120.76.

The publisher of Grand Theft Auto and other video games gave investors a disappointing profit forecast.

Trex Co., down $9.55 to $54.28.

The maker of wood-alternative deck and railing materials gave investors a weak revenue forecast for the current quarter.

Qualys Inc., up $15.27 to $142.70.

The maker of security-analysis software raised its earnings and revenue forecasts for the year.

Novavax Inc., down $16.97 to $40.28.

The COVID-19 vaccine maker slashed its revenue forecast for the year.

SmileDirectClub Inc., down 12 cents to $1.17.

The direct-to-consumer teeth-straightening company cut its revenue forecast for the year.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., down $1.43 to $12.10.

The cruise operator reported disappointing financial results and gave investors a weak revenue forecast.

Nielsen Holdings Plc., up $4.81 to $27.52.

The audience rating company announced progress on a deal to be acquired by private equity firms.
Where you from? Do you like barbecue? I approached a tight parking lot with five cars positioned next to a deck leading up to an Indian restaurant that doubles as an Irish pub.

Beneath the overhang was a large black barbecue smoker, with a white haze slowly billowing from its chimney. As I approached to order from the man behind the rig, the smells of applewood, cherry and hickory-infused meats pierced my senses, and my taste buds began to tingle.

Even without much signage, I knew Id made it to my journeys end: Adams Smoked Meats & BBQ, at 2351 Taylor St., the newest (and only) barbecue destination in San Franciscos North Beach district, popping up every Thursday through Sunday.

70 years of barbecue

I call [my barbecue] California barbecue with 70 years of experience, said James Adams, co-owner and chef of Adams Smoked Meats. Its an attempt to lure a potential customer who appears interested, but hasnt quite committed to buying a plate just yet. Come here, let me give you a sample. What do you like chicken? Brisket? Ribs?

Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE

The customer, a tourist who just got off the iconic cable car at the corner of Taylor and Francisco streets, grinned as she tasted a piece of rib that Adams offered, and immediately got in line for a full plate.

This is how things are run at San Franciscos freshest barbecue joint. My food speaks for itself, Adams said, with a smile. Ill give you a sample. And if you like, I know youll buy it.

The man wearing a round chef's hat and black-rimmed glasses standing slightly hunched over the hot smoker is James Adams. His barbecue stand is one hes wanted for 70 years but never had, until now.

Adams, now 77, was born at San Francisco General Hospital but grew up in Stockton. He remembers growing up in the kitchen of his aunt and uncles soul food restaurant, which also doubled as a nightclub called Night Out Cafe.

He comes from a large family, and said his dad married three times and has 19 children. Almost everyone in the family is food oriented and he described all of the women as great cooks, but none had the perks that Adams did, with ready access to his aunts professional kitchen.

Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE

I started cooking barbecue when I was seven years old, he said. I started by emptying the ashes out of their barbecue pit. When I got a little bigger, I put the meat in the smoker. When I got a little bigger than that, she took me in the kitchen. So it was step one, two and three for me.

Adams knew barbecue would become his vocation. Its the one skill hes always had a passion for.

From a young age, it was all I wanted to do, he recounted on a Thursday afternoon next to the smoker. Everyone kept telling me, Your food is good. And eventually, I started to believe it.

Those encouraging words motivated him to wake up even earlier than his aunt so he could practice and create his own recipes after finishing the prep work he did for her. And if you know barbecue, you know it takes a long time to properly smoke the meat to get it just right  tender, yet not grainy.

If you dont know your temperatures, youre just cooking a piece of meat, he explained. But if you know how meat cooks with different temperatures, then youve got something.

As much flavor as possible

For most of his professional life, Adams cooked while others made money off of his food. He worked many years as a caterer, cooking for an all-night supermarket owned by his childhood friend Marvin Robinson. Robinson also happens to be the program director for KSOL, a radio station based in the Bayview-Hunters Point district of San Francisco. Adams said he worked sometimes 20-hour days.

Eventually, he told his friend, Im tired. I make everybody else money, but I'm not quite getting what I want.

At the time, Adams knew his recipes were delicious, but he didnt know the right steps to take to start his own business. He went on to work as a journeyman butcher for Shenson's Corned Beef, then for Gallo Salame, and as a chef at a children's hospital. He even worked at Just Desserts for a stint, where he learned how to bake pastries such as croissants.

But he was always dissatisfied with the corporate structure of those positions.

Those jobs, you arent cooking, youre racing, he said in regards to the speed he had to pump out orders. I like flavor. I like to cook food and give it as much flavor as possible.

Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE

When I sampled some of Adams barbecue, I ordered the all-meat combo for $42. The immediate standout was the ribs. They were generously seasoned and didnt slide off the bone, but were cooked with such precision that the fat still melted in my mouth. The brisket was moist in the middle but had some terrific bark that I would pick up with my fingers and dunk into the homemade barbecue sauce. The chicken, not usually a highlight in the world of barbecue, was a contender for best bite. It had the most smoke flavor profile and paired very well with Adams sauce  which was maybe my favorite part of the entire meal.

The California barbecue scene doesnt quite have a distinguishing factor that stands up against other regional barbecue standards; we sort of take a bit of every region and put it into our cue. But one thing that our barbecue should highlight is the sauce  and Adams sauce would be a prime example of that. It was not too thick, but not too runny, either. It had a tang that puckered my lips and it was great on all of Adams meats.

Even though Adams wasnt ready for his own restaurant throughout the 90s, he has a friend, Danny Knight, who was able to help him get set up in the backside parking lot of Kennedys Indian Curry House & Irish Pub on Columbus. Now, Adams along with his wife, Janice, and Knight, run the business together.

Love, family and barbecue

Knight, 71, was also born in San Francisco and raised in the Bayview-Hunters Point when it was still Navy housing for the base that used to be there. He attended Aptos Middle School and Balboa High School, but said he grew up in the historic Fillmore District, what used to be a thriving Black community, dubbed the Harlem of the West, until gentrification and urban renewal started to push people out of their houses. He also worked at San Francisco Municipal Railway, or Muni, for 28 years.

For some of that time, Knight was a cable car operator and dropped off tourists at the corner of Taylor and Francisco streets. During that stint, he met Brahma Swami, another cable car operator, who eventually bought the building and parking lot where Adams Smoked Meats & BBQ sets up shop every Thursday through Sunday. It was Knights friendship with Swami that led Swami to take a chance on Adams and incorporate the barbecue pop-up into his business license.

Hes a real kind-hearted person, Knight said of Swami. His bar is a real community base. Its not just about money in his pocket. Hes just one of those special type of people where it aint always about money.

After his tenure at Muni, Knight started his own catering business, which is how he met Adams. The two became instant friends. One day, Adams told Knight that he was going to marry a woman named Janice, and he wanted Knight to meet her. When she walked in the door of her house and saw Knight standing there, they started crying because they realized they had known each other as children. They grew up three houses away from each other in San Francisco.

Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE

To make the world seem even smaller, Adams and Janice came to realize early on in their relationship that their parents were from the same small town  Marshall, Texas.

We dont know if they knew each other because everybody has moved away, she said. But my parents came from Marshall and his mother came from Marshall. Its unbelievable.

Now, theyre all partners in the barbecue business. Adams does the barbecue. Janice bakes her sweet treats such as lemon-7 Up pound cake and pecan and sweet potato pies, while Knight brings over the customers with his charming personality.

Its like fate, Knight said of the three of them teaming up together. You do the right things for people and the right things happen for you.

Even back in the 90s, when Knight and Adams were both in the catering business, Knight saw the potential Adams had with his food that everyone seemed to love. So when the right time came, they all decided to set up shop in the most unlikely places in San Francisco for barbecue  North Beach, a historically Italian neighborhood.

Still, Adams and team couldnt be happier with the location.

In a business, theres two things you want, Adams said. You want good customers and good location.

Adam Pardee/Special to SFGATE

He estimates that he is the only barbecue spot in the area. From Pier 39 to the beach and north of Market Street, hes the only game in town.

I got people from Spain, Germany, Russia, Africa and all over, he continued. When they get off the cable car, they walk over, try a sample and say, Hey man, your food is on hit.

Adams is proud of his 70 years experience of cooking barbecue and that he is finally making money from his food. And he should be. Its never too late to realize your dreams, and Adams is a shining example of that.

All my life. I've been cooking for people, he said. No boss realizes that the workers that cook your food and bring you the customers are the ones you should try to appreciate. I'm not asking nobody to suck up to me or anything. I just like to be appreciated.

Adams Smoked Meats & BBQ, 2351 Taylor St., San Francisco. Open Thursday through Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
A Texas Army National Guard soldier told a girl he was sexually abusing to "keep it a secret," according to Laredo police.

Jorge Alberto Montes, 37, was served with arrest warrants on July 27 charging him with two counts of indecency with a child by exposure and two counts of indecency with a child by contact.

"Texas Army National Guard Spc. Jorge Montes entered the Texas Army National Guard in 2003 and is assigned to the 454th Engineer Company as an Army infantryman. The Texas Military Department is aware of the allegations. For further questions related to the alleged charges, please contact the Laredo Police Department," the Texas Military Department said in a statement.

Webb County Jail records show that Montes was released on bond on July 29.

The case dates back to April 11. At about 4:10 p.m., police officers responded to a sexual offense of a child. A woman stated that her now 11-year-old daughter had reported to her school counselor that Montes had inappropriately touched her private parts multiple times and that he showed her a photo of his private part, states the arrest affidavit.

On April 19, the child underwent a forensic interview at the Childrens Advocacy Center. During the interview, she stated that Montes made her feel uncomfortable and that he touched her in some places. She added that the abuse started in 2020.

Montes showed her something she did not want to see, a picture of his private part, on his phone. She just wanted to go to sleep but Montes started touching her, states the affidavit. She went on to describe other instances of abuse, including touching her breast area. The child even began to cry while describing the alleged abuse. Montes told her to keep it a secret, the affidavit states.

Montes met with investigators at LPD headquarters. He stated he was aware of the allegations. He denied wrongdoing. Montes said he was told that the girl had seen a photo of his penis on his cell phone. He added that the girl would get his phone and knows his password, states the affidavit.

Montes further stated he does have photos of his penis on his phone and was unaware that the girl had seen them, according to court documents.

Mr. Montes stated (the girl) had daddy issues due to her parents separation, states the affidavit.
PANAMA CITY (AP)  Three migrants drowned while crossing into Panama from Colombia, authorities said Tuesday.

The dead included a 16-year-old Venezuelan woman, and two men, one from Colombia and one from Venezuela.

Panamas National Immigration Service said the migrants were apparently carried away by the strong currents of the Rio Armila, just a few miles (kilometers) from the border with Colombia.

The accident occurred in an area near where the river runs into the sea, and where migrant smugglers frequently allow migrants to rest before continuing their journey. The three may have been taking a swim in the river to cool off.

Local residents and other migrants later recovered the bodies.

Hundreds of migrants are believed to have died making the overland crossing between the two countries through the Darien Gap, a roadless jungle area where thieves, swollen rivers, rough terrain and wild animals are frequent.

In June, Juan Manuel Pino, Panamas security minister said the number of migrants crossing the Darien Gap has grown substantially.

In the first half of the year, 46,415 migrants were found crossing, compared to 26,216 detected in the same period of 2021.

That year, a total of 133,000 migrants passed through Panama, suggesting that this years total will be even higher. The majority of the migrants in 2021 were from Haiti, while authorities estimate the largest group this year are Venezuelans.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP)  Eight minority corrections officers who were working at the jail where a former Minneapolis police officer was awaiting trial in the death of George Floyd were awarded nearly $1.5 million Tuesday to settle a lawsuit.

The officers filed the racial discrimination complaint after a Ramsey County Jail superintendent barred officers of color from entering the floor where Derek Chauvin was being held. The settlement also calls for the county to apologize in a written statement and acknowledge that order was discriminatory and wrong.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Alabama is one of 15 states that do not ask voters to register with a political party ahead of a voting in a primary. Some Republicans argue its time to change that.

The Alabama Republican Party will take a vote this weekend on whether to support a party registration requirement for primaries, also known as having a closed primary. Passage of the resolution would signal support for the idea, but the Alabama Legislature would have to enact legislation to make such a change.

I very much expect it to pass, Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl said of the party resolution. The state GOP approved a similar resolution in 2016.

Currently, voters casting ballots in a primary election in Alabama simply tell a poll worker which ballot they want. Wahl said there is growing concern about possible cross-over voting. Republicans should be electing Republican nominees, he said.

I think this is an issue that has been highlighted by this election cycle. Weve seen so much frustration from candidates, voters, as well as the members of the Republican Party, towards Democrats purposely trying to affect the outcome of our Republican primaries, Wahl said.

Wahl said the resolution endorses the idea of a closed primary, but doesn't recommend any specific method. States have different rules regarding primary voting and party registration.

Only nine states have completely closed primaries where a voter seeking to vote in a closed primary must first be a registered party member, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Other states have partially open or partially closed primaries, where unaffiliated voters may be able to vote in a primary or where voters can change their party affiliation on primary day.

House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, a Democratic representative from Huntsville, said a closed GOP primary could lead to more extreme candidates.

From an Alabama standpoint, I think thats dangerous because you end up getting the most extreme views in a primary, Daniels said.

But he said that could create more opportunity in general elections for the Democratic nominees who would appeal to more moderate voters.
HOUSTON (AP)  A federal appeals court on Monday restored the death sentence of a bank robber convicted of killing his best friend, his friends fiancee and their three children.

In a 32-page opinion, a three-judge panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned a lower court ruling that would have freed Ronald Jeffery Prible Jr. if the state did not retry Prible within six months. The panel ruled Prible failed to raise issues sufficiently compelling to discredit his conviction and sentence.
NEW YORK (AP)  Chipotle Mexican Grill will pay $20 million to current and former workers at its New York City restaurants for violating city labor laws, Mayor Eric Adams announced Tuesday.

According to investigators, Chipotles violations of the citys Fair Workweek law included failing to post work schedules 14 days in advance, pay a premium for schedule changes and offer available shifts to current employees before hiring new employees.

The settlement between the city and the California-based fast-food chain covers about 13,000 employees who worked at the chain's New York City outlets between 2017 and this year. It is the result of an investigation by the city's Department of Consumer and Worker Protection into complaints filed by 160 Chipotle workers and Local 32BJ of the Service Employees International Union, city officials said.

Todays settlement with Chipotle is not only a victory for workers by securing up to $20 million in relief for approximately 13,000 workers, but also sends a strong message, as the largest worker protection settlement in New York City history, that we wont stand by when workers rights are violated," Adams, a Democrat, said in a statement.

Under the agreement, any hourly New York City Chipotle worker is eligible to receive $50 for each week worked between Nov. 26, 2017, and April 30, 2022. Chipotle will also pay $1 million in civil penalties to the city.

"Were pleased to be able to resolve these issues and believe this settlement demonstrates Chipotles commitment to providing opportunities for all of our team members while also complying with the Fair Workweek law Scott Boatwright, Chipotle's chief restaurant officer, said in a statement.

Boatwright said the company has taken steps to improve compliance through measures such as improved time-keeping technology and looks forward to continuing to promote the goals of predictable scheduling and access to work hours for those who want them.
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  The U.S. Coast Guard was searching for a man who was reported missing from a cruise ship late Monday near Juneau and believed to have gone overboard.

A statement from Holland America Line Tuesday said the man was a crew member on the vessel Koningsdam and reported missing shortly after the ship had left Juneau.

A review of closed-circuit TV footage indicated the man likely went overboard intentionally, the statement said.

The U.S. Coast Guard was notified and began searching with the help of another ship, the Eurodam, the statement said. Both ships remained in the area for several hours as the search continued before being released by the Coast Guard in the early hours of the morning, the statement said.

All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time, the statement said. We are offering counseling services to team members and guests who may have been affected by this incident.

The Coast Guard said Tuesday afternoon that it had suspended its search. The Coast Guard said the missing man is 31 years old. The agency, in a statement, also said the cause of the incident is under investigation.

The Coast Guard said it was notified late Monday by crew from the Eurodam who reported hearing shouting coming from the water.
TOKELAND, Wash. (AP)  Theres a new option to escape a tsunami for people on the southwest coast of Washington.

The Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe dedicated a 50-foot tall (15.2-meter) evacuation tower in Tokeland, Washington, on Friday, the Northwest News Network reported.

When the next magnitude 9.0 rip of the offshore Cascadia fault zone happens, people on the Pacific Northwest coast will have some 15 to 35 minutes to get to high ground to escape a possible tsunami.

Tokeland is on a long, flat peninsula with no high ground within walking or running distance for many there.

Shoalwater tribal council member Lynn Clark said at the dedication ceremony that the tower will save lives. Tribal leaders and the Federal Emergency Management Agency said it should be an example and inspiration for other vulnerable coastal communities.

The tribes emergency management director, Ken Ufkin, said he can sleep better now that the sturdy, double-decker tsunami refuge tower exists. The tower stands close to the midpoint of the nearly 3-mile-long (4.8-kilometer) Tokeland Peninsula.

This allows folks even if its 2:30 in the morning in your pajamas to scoop up your family and make it here in a very short amount of time  in under a 15-minute window for nearly everyone from Tokeland Point to the heart of the reservation, Ufkin said.

The tower will be open to all in a disaster. The tower platforms have a capacity of more than 400 people, which is considerably more than the tribal population of the small Shoalwater Bay reservation.

The Tokeland evacuation tower resembles free-standing tsunami towers built in Japan, but officials said it's the first of its type in North America. Two other tsunami refuges on the Northwest coast  in Newport, Oregon, and Westport, Washington  are reinforced platforms on the roofs of a school or university building.

Design engineer Cale Ash, who worked on the Tokeland tower for Degenkolb Engineers, said tsunami experts modeled the maximum wave height near the mouth of Willapa Bay as 16.3 feet (4.9 meters) and said the design team rounded up to 20.2 feet (6.1 meters) to be safe. He said the floor of the lower platform is 33 feet (10 meters) above the ground and the floor of the upper platform is 43 feet (13.1 meters) high.

Ash also said at the dedication that the tower rests on concrete pilings that go 55 feet (16.7 meters) deep to withstand violent shaking of the soft, sandy soils of the peninsula.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency provided $3.8 million toward the design and construction of the Tokeland tower. The Shoalwater Bay tribe contributed an additional $1.2 million to complete the budget.

The most likely next place in the Northwest to build a tsunami evacuation tower is the town of Ocean Shores, Washington, which is working with Degenkolb on a design.

Some emergency planners have qualms about relying on vertical evacuation structures because it leaves a potentially large number of people in a disaster zone who will need to be rescued later.

Ufkin and others say, however, that reaching safety quickly by driving away is unlikely to be an option if a major earthquake buckles roads and topples power poles in low-lying places such as Tokeland  or in Ocean Shores and Long Beach, Washington, and parts of Seaside and Warrenton, Oregon, for example too.

Geologists and emergency planners consider the Cascadia Subduction Zone fault among the most significant disaster threats in the U.S. The offshore fault last ruptured in January 1700, spawning a tsunami that reached all the way across the Pacific to Japan.
BOGOTA, Colombia (AP)  Colombias first leftist president presented an ambitious tax plan on Monday that aims to raise up to $11 billion a year for anti-poverty programs.

Gustavo Petro was sworn into office on Sunday, and has promised to fight economic inequality while investing in rural areas that have long been haunted by drug-related violence.

Less than 24 hours after taking his presidential oath, the new president presented a tax reform plan to his nation s congress that will increase income taxes on wealthy individuals and place a 10% levy on oil exports. The bill also includes an annual wealth tax on individuals who have a net worth of more than $750,000 as well as sales taxes on soft drinks and highly processed foods.

Petro, who was formerly a member of a rebel group, has said it is vital for Colombia to increase state spending in order to fight poverty and implement a 2016 peace deal with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia that includes land reform and rural development programs.

Tax collection in the South American Nation was worth roughly 19% of its total GDP in 2020, which is slightly below the Latin American average. Members of the OECD, an organization made up mostly of developed countries, collect an average of 33% of their GDP in taxes.

Governments in Colombia have long struggled with tax collection because much of the population works in the informal economy. Last year, an effort by conservative President Ivan Duque to raise income taxes and some sales taxes sparked massive protests in which more than 50 people were killed.

Petros incoming finance minister said the new tax reform plan will only attempt to raise income taxes on the wealthiest 2% of individuals. He has urged Colombias wealthiest citizens to accept greater taxation, and addressed the issue during his inauguration speech.

This should not be viewed as a punishment or a sacrifice, he said. It is simply a solidary payment that someone fortunate makes to a society that has enabled them to generate wealth.

The government has also proposed doubling the nations 10% tax on dividends from stocks, and taxing the products of digital companies that arent based in Colombia. This might mean that Colombians would have to pay more taxes on their Netflix subscriptions or on books they buy on Amazon.

Colombias congress will now have to debate Petros proposed plan, which is expected to affect several areas of the economy.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  The United States is doubling down on its investment in the Pacific, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman said Tuesday as she concluded a five-nation visit to the region where China has been making inroads.

The future will be written here in the Pacific, Sherman said at an agreement-signing event in New Zealand's capital, Wellington.

Critics have accused the U.S. of neglecting the region and allowing China's influence to flourish.

The Solomon Islands in April signed a security pact with China in a move that has alarmed many in the Pacific who fear it could lead to a military buildup. The U.S. earlier this year announced plans to reopen an embassy in the Solomons, where on Sunday Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare skipped a service commemorating the Battle of Guadalcanal that Sherman and other dignitaries attended.

Sherman said the U.S. has always been a Pacific nation. She said it has been a priority for President Joe Biden to rebuild alliances and relationships around the world, and officials were using every vehicle possible to collaborate with Pacific partners.

And so we are doubling down on our investment here in the Pacific, Sherman said. Our relationships, our partnerships, regional organizations.

Asked if she felt the U.S. or China was winning the battle for influence in the region, Sherman said she didn't see it quite that way.

It's not so much a battle, she said. I think that countries try to have relations with every country they believe will help them move forward. And the United States does not ask any country to choose between us and China, or any other country and China."

She said the U.S. wanted a level playing field and respect for the rules-based international order that was put in place after World War II, a system that had helped China rise and which ought to benefit all nations.

Sherman said she had discussed China among a number of topics in a meeting with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.

Sherman signed agreements to collaborate more closely with New Zealand on space missions and emergency management. It was the final stop on a trip that had taken her to Samoa, Tonga, the Solomon Islands and Australia.

Sherman spoke more about the decision of the Solomons' prime minister to stay away from Sunday's Guadalcanal commemoration.

I told him I was sorry for him because I thought he missed an opportunity to raise up that strong partnership and the fight for freedom that allowed the Solomon Islands to exist as it is today, she said.
MORA, N.M. (AP)  A Guadalupita man has been arrested for driving a pickup truck into floodwaters in Mora, allegedly leading to the death of his passenger, authorities said Tuesday.

New Mexico State Police said 30-year-old John Vasquez has been booked into the San Miguel County jail on suspicion of vehicular homicide while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and fleeing an accident with knowledge of death or great bodily harm.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Officials in Gov. Tony Evers' administration have moved a step closer toward replacing the state's troubled youth prison, announcing Tuesday that they've picked a site in Milwaukee for a new facility.

The existing youth prison, a combination facility for boys and girls known as Lincoln Hills School for Boys and Copper Lake School for Girls, is located outside Irma in northern Wisconsin. The prison has been plagued by allegations of guard-on-prisoner abuse for years. The American Civil Liberties Union in 2017 filed a federal lawsuit, which resulted in a judge ordering an independent monitor to provide regular reports on prison conditions.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  A recent State Highway Patrol commander and the current Winston-Salem police chief will be among President Joe Biden's nominees to serve as North Carolina's three U.S. marshals.

Biden announced on Tuesday that retired patrol Col. Glenn McNeill is his choice to become marshal for the Eastern District of North Carolina, while the president said it's his intent to nominate Winston-Salem Chief Catrina Thompson for the Middle District post.
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MANILA, Philippines (AP)  Former Philippine President Fidel Ramos was laid to rest in a state funeral Tuesday, hailed as an ex-general who backed and then helped oust a dictatorship and became a defender of democracy and a can-do reformist in his poverty-wracked Asian country.

Ramos died July 31 at age 94 from COVID-19 complications at the Makati Medical Center in the capital region, his family said. He also suffered from a heart condition and dementia and had been in and out of hospital in recent years, former aides said.

An urn containing the ashes of the U.S.-trained general, who served in the Korean and Vietnam wars, was placed in a flag-draped coffin, which was carried by six pallbearers amid somber music.

His cremated remains were placed in his grave after a funeral procession led by honor guards and his family, which was showered with flower petals from two helicopters. The ceremony, which was broadcast live nationwide by state-run and major TV networks, was attended by newly elected President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and was capped by a 21-gun salute.

Marcos Jr. visited Ramos wake Thursday and condoled with the family of Ramos, who, he said, was a symbol of stability after all the tumultuous events of 1986.

Marcos Jr. is the namesake son of the former Philippine dictator, whose 1986 ouster came after Ramos  then a top official of the Philippine Constabulary  and defense chief Juan Ponce Enrile withdrew their support in defections that sparked massive army-backed protests.

Ramos was the late dictators second cousin and had helped the elder Marcos enforce martial law starting in 1972 in an era when thousands of people were incarcerated, tortured and became victims of extrajudicial killings and disappearances.

Ramos was laid to rest near the grave of the dictator, who was buried at the Heroes' Cemetery with military honors in 2016 in a secrecy-shrouded ceremony after then-President Rodrigo Duterte gave his approval and the Supreme Court dismissed objections from human rights activists.

The Department of National Defense, which was once led by Ramos, said he was a decorated soldier who spearheaded the modernization of the military, one of Asias most underfunded. He organized the elite special forces of the army and the national police.

The cigar-chomping Ramos, known for his we can do this rallying call to Filipinos, thumbs-up sign, attention to detail and firm handshakes, served as president from 1992 to 1998, succeeding democracy icon Corazon Aquino.

She was swept into the presidency in 1986 after the largely peaceful People Power revolt that toppled the dictator and became a harbinger of change in authoritarian regimes worldwide.

Marcos, his family and cronies were driven into U.S. exile, where he died in 1989.

After Aquino rose to the presidency, Ramos became the military chief of staff and later defense secretary, successfully defending her from several violent coup attempts. In 1992, Ramos won the presidential elections and became the largely Roman Catholic nations first Protestant president.

His six-year term was marked by major reforms and attempts to dismantle telecommunications and other business monopolies that triggered a rare economic boom, bolstered the image of the impoverished Southeast Asian country and drew praise from business leaders and the international community.

In his last State of the Nation address before a joint session of Congress in 1997, Ramos said only sustained development, a modernized agriculture, industrialization and adequate infrastructure would allow the country to wipe out poverty. But he stressed it was crucial for Filipinos to safeguard democracy.

We cannot allow our democracy to wither  because Philippine democracy is our unique comparative advantage in the new global order, Ramos said then. Without freedom, economic growth is meaningless. And so, freedom, markets, and progress go together.

One of his legacies was the 1996 signing of a peace pact between his government and the Moro National Liberation Front, the largest Muslim separatist group at the time in the volatile southern Philippines, homeland of minority Muslims.

Ramos calm bearing in times of crises, including the 1997 Asian financial crisis, earned him the moniker Steady Eddie.

A son of a longtime legislator and foreign secretary, Ramos graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1950. He was a part of the Philippine combat contingent that fought in the Korean War and was also involved in the Vietnam War as a non-combat civil military engineer.

___

Associated Press journalists Aaron Favila and Joeal Calupitan contributed to this report.
A former Virginia police officer who pleaded guilty to storming the U.S. Capitol with another off-duty officer deserves to avoid a prison sentence for his cooperation and trial testimony against the other officer, federal prosecutors argued in a court filing Tuesday.

Justice Department prosecutors recommended six months of probation along with a period of home detention or "community confinement" for former Rocky Mount police officer Jacob Fracker. He pleaded guilty to a felony charge that he conspired with a former colleague, Thomas Robertson, to obstruct Congress from certifying President Joe Bidens 2020 electoral victory.

Prosecutors have recommended an eight-year prison sentence for Robertson, who was convicted by a jury of attacking the Capitol to obstruct Congress from certifying the Electoral College vote on Jan. 6, 2021.

Robertson is scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday and Fracker, next Tuesday.

Sentencing guidelines calculated by the courts probation department recommend Fracker receive a term of imprisonment ranging from 15 to 21 months. His lawyer requested a sentence of house arrest, probation and community service.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper isnt bound by any of the recommendations when he sentences Robertson and Fracker.

Fracker was scheduled to be tried alongside Robertson before he pleaded guilty in March. He described Robertson as his mentor and a father figure.

Prosecutors said they wouldn't have known that Robertson destroyed two cell phones containing incriminating videos and photos taken on Jan. 6 without Fracker's fulsome cooperation.

In addition, Frackers testimony substantially helped establish Robertsons corrupt intent to obstruct the proceeding, prosecutors wrote. "Prior to Frackers cooperation, the evidence of Robertsons intent relied on his social media postings, which Robertson sought to discount as online bragging."

Fracker testified at Robertsons trial that he initially believed that he was merely trespassing when he entered the Capitol building. But he ultimately pleaded guilty to conspiring with Robertson to obstruct Congress.

Under cross-examination by one of Robertsons lawyers, Fracker said he didnt have a verbal agreement with anybody to obstruct the joint session of Congress. Fracker said he believed everybody in the mob pretty much had the same goal and didnt need for it to be said out loud.

Robertson didnt testify at his trial before a jury convicted him in April of all six counts in his indictment, including charges that he interfered with police officers at the Capitol and that he entered a restricted area with a dangerous weapon, a large wooden stick.

If an eight-year prison sentence were to be handed Robertson, it would be the longest among hundreds of Capitol riot cases. The lengthiest so far is seven years and three months for Guy Reffitt, a Texas man who attacked the Capitol while armed with a holstered handgun.

Robertson traveled to Washington, D.C., on the morning of Jan. 6 with Fracker and a third man, a neighbor. They donned gas masks as they approached the Capitol and joined the mob of rioters.

Fracker said he and Robertson both believed the 2020 presidential election had been stolen from former President Donald Trump.

The town fired Robertson and Fracker after the riot. Rocky Mount is about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Roanoke and has roughly 5,000 residents.
Jed Jacobsohn/AP

SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A former Twitter employee has been convicted of failing to register as an agent for Saudi Arabia and other charges after accessing private data on users critical of the kingdoms government in a spy case that spanned from Silicon Valley to the Middle East.

Ahmad Abouammo, a U.S. citizen and former media partnership manager for Twitters Middle East region, was charged in 2019 with acting as an agent of Saudi Arabia without registering with the U.S. government. A jury found him guilty on six counts, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. The jury acquitted him on another five charges involving wire fraud.
WASHINGTON, Ga. (AP)  A Georgia dairy farm has been fined after a release of food waste caused a fish kill, a rare instance of government getting involved with a practice that counties can't regulate despite chronic complaints from residents.

WAGA-TV reports the Georgia Environmental Protection Division fined McAvoy Farms, also known as Mar Leta Farms, $5,000 after nearly 1,700 fish died in the Little River in Wilkes County on June 16.

The division found that 1.2 million gallons of sludge and other food byproducts overflowed a lagoon into a farm pond and then to a creek over a six-week period.

Farmers accept the byproducts as what's called a soil amendment, which can be used in place of traditional fertilizer. But critics call it industrial waste because its made up of byproducts from poultry and other food processing plants, waste such as chicken blood or water used to rinse equipment.

Really, this is not to us a farm product, Wilkes County Commission Chairman Sam Moore told the television station. This is an industrial waste product that theyre really dumping on these rural counties.

Farmers are often paid to accept the byproducts. At McAvoy Farms, records show the waste came from Nestle Purina's pet food plant in Hartwell, where the liquid had been used to clean and rinse tanks and equipment.

Jeff Johnson, a Wilkes County neighbor of the dairy farm, said the smell is putrid, makes his eyes waters and has attracted a plague of flies.

Its like you washed out the bottom of a trash can, he said. A very foul trash can.

Johnson said it's the first time he's had to put out fly traps and fly strips in the 23 years he's lived there.

State rules require a soil amendment be tilled under the soil within an hour of application, but Johnson said it was sprayed onto fields and left to run off.

If it had been plowed in, there wouldnt be much of an issue at all, he said. "But it wasnt done that way from the very beginning.

The state ordered the farm to stop taking the material and remove all liquids and sludge from the tributaries on your property. The farm did not respond to a request for comment.

Moore and Oglethorpe County Commission Chairman Jay Paul said complaints about soil amendment are the top complaint they get from constituents in the neighboring counties east of Athens. They also say they're worried because they don't know what's in the waste.

If this stuff has such value to it, why they having to truck it 60, 80, 100 miles away and a couple hours away and sometimes pay people to take it? asked Paul.

But local governments cant regulate where soil amendments are sprayed. Thats strictly a state matter.

A Department of Agriculture spokesperson said the state does not track locations, only which companies are allowed to provide the soil amendment.
LATEST August 9, 11:27 a.m. Three electricians who were transported to a local hospital with burn injuries after an arc flash outside a Google data center are now in stable condition, according to a Google spokesperson.

The full extent of their injuries is unknown; the Council Bluffs Fire Department and Police Department, in addition to the Nebraska Medical Center, don't have more details to share at this time, they each told SFGATE. The three individuals who were injured are not Google employees, according to multiple sources with knowledge of the situation.

Google users worldwide reported a brief outage on Monday that affected Gmail, Maps. and Images search, but Google says that was due to a software update issue, and was unrelated to the arc flash incident in Iowa.

Were aware of a software update issue that occurred late this afternoon Pacific Time and briefly affected availability of Google Search and Maps, and we apologize for the inconvenience. We worked to quickly address the issue and our services are now back online," a spokesperson wrote.

August 8, 5:32 p.m. Three electricians were critically injured and transported to a local hospital after an "electrical incident" at a Google data center in Council Bluffs, Iowa, according to the Council Bluffs Police Department and Google.

The incident occurred at 11:59 a.m. local time on Monday, the Council Bluffs Police Department told SFGATE. Three electricians were working on a substation close to the data center buildings when an arc flash (an electric explosion) occurred, causing significant burns to all three electricians.

One person was taken by helicopter to Nebraska Medical Center, while two more were transported by ambulance. (Nebraska Medical Center is a short distance from Council Bluffs, which is right on the Iowa-Nebraska border.) All three people were conscious and breathing when they were transported for medical care, according to the Council Bluffs Police Department.

Google spokesperson Devon Smiley sent the following statement to SFGATE:

We are aware of an electrical incident that took place today at Googles data center in Council Bluffs, Iowa, injuring three people onsite who are now being treated. The health and safety of all workers is our absolute top priority, and we are working closely with partners and local authorities to thoroughly investigate the situation and provide assistance as needed.

Google has 14 data centers in the United States, and 23 in total around the world. The data centers "keep all of Googles products and services up and running around the clock," according to the company. The Council Bluffs location site is one of Google's largest. It first opened in 2009.

This is a developing story and will be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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BEIRUT (AP)  The leader of Lebanons militant Hezbollah group issued a warning Tuesday to archenemy Israel over the two countries maritime border dispute, saying that any arm that reaches to steal Lebanons wealth will be cut off.

Hassan Nasrallah's remarks came amid intensified U.S. efforts to resolve a more than a decade-old maritime border dispute between Israel and Lebanon, which have officially been at war since Israels creation in 1948.

Both countries claim some 860 square kilometers (330 square miles) of the Mediterranean Sea. Lebanon also claims that the Karish gas field is in disputed territory under ongoing maritime border negotiations while Israel says it lies within its internationally recognized economic waters.

Amos Hochstein, a senior adviser for energy security at the U.S. State Department who has been mediating in the dispute, met with top Lebanese officials last week. After the talks, he said the two countries are getting closer to reaching a deal in the dispute.

Hochstein was later reported to have visited Israel and is expected back in Beirut in the coming weeks with Israeli responses to Lebanese requests.

Israel and Hezbollah are bitter enemies that fought a monthlong war in the summer of 2006. Israel considers the Iran-backed Shiite militant group its most serious immediate threat, estimating that Hezbollah has some 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at Israel.

In his speech during a rally south of Beirut, attended by tens of thousands to mark Ashoura, Nasrallah said Lebanon should be ready to all possibilities."

We will not tolerate the idea that our wealth be stolen, Nasrallah said.

Ashoura is one of the most important days on the Shiites religious calendar, commemorating the 7th century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammads grandson Hussein.

Lebanon badly needs an agreement over the maritime border in the Mediterranean as it hopes to exploit offshore gas reserves to try and alleviate what has become the worst economic crisis in its modern history.

Last month, the Israeli military shot down three unarmed Hezbollah drones flying over the Karish field. Lebanons Prime Minister Najib Mikati at the time criticized Hezbollah, saying the move could pose risks to the country. Hezbollah later aired drone footage showing Israeli ships in the area.

Dont make mistakes with Lebanon nor with the people of Lebanon, Nasrallah said. Any arm that tries to reach for any of this (Lebanese) wealth will be cut off.

Nasrallah also warned Israel not to target any Palestinian officials in Lebanon amid a cease-fire that ended three days of deadly fighting between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group in the Gaza Strip. The Islamic Jihad group, along with the much larger Hamas militant group that runs Gaza, is a Hezbollah ally.
Illinois is joining other states in taking aim at legislation they say discriminates against LGBTQ students.

A coalition of attorneys general that includes Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has filed a legal brief in opposition to an Indiana school district prohibiting a transgender student from using a restroom consistent with the student's gender identify and one that opposes Florida's so-called "Don't Say Gay" law that limits school discussions about same-sex relationships.

The Indiana case, A.C. vs. Metropolitan School District of Martinsville, focuses on school district attempts to prohibit a 13-year-old transgender student from using the boys restroom. A brief filed on behalf of Raoul and 22 other attorneys general asks an appeals court to affirm a ruling against the school district.

Illinois is being joined by California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.

In the Florida filing, Raoul and other attorneys general are supporting a group of students, parents, teachers and organizations challenging enforcement of the law.

The law prevents classroom discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity and prohibits classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity in kindergarten through the third grade, while also requiring the state education agency to write new classroom instruction standards that must be followed by fourth- through 12th-grade teachers.

Raoul and the coalition maintain the Florida law is extreme and causes significant harm that can result in increased rates of mental health disorders and suicide attempts. He joins attorneys general from California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York and Oregon.

"Across the country, we are seeing increased attacks on the rights of LGBTQ+ youth, Raoul said. Discrimination has no place in the classroom  period. I will continue to work with fellow attorneys general from across the country to stand up for the rights of all students and will vehemently oppose unjust policies that jeopardize the education and emotional and physical well-being of LGBTQ+ students."
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IDNA, West Bank (AP)  A Palestinian hunger striker who his family says has refused food for the past 160 days and is wasting away in an Israeli jailhouse infirmary has suddenly been thrust into the center of efforts to firm up a Gaza cease-fire.

Khalil Awawdeh is in the spotlight because the Islamic Jihad group sought his release as part of Egyptian-brokered talks that ended three days of fighting between the Gaza-based militants and Israel over the weekend.

In an attempt to win the militants' agreement to halt their fire, Egypt had assured them it would also try to win the release of their West Bank leader and of Awawdeh.

The 40-year-old father of four girls, gaunt and weakened, is protesting his detention without charge or trial by Israel. He is one of dozens of prisoners who have staged hunger strikes in Israeli prisons.

Prospects for his release are uncertain. But his case highlights the plight of hundreds of Palestinians who are being held by Israel under a system that critics say denies them the right to due process.

Israel can hold so-called administrative detainees indefinitely, without showing them the alleged evidence against them or taking them to trial in military courts. Many turn to hunger strikes as a last recourse to bring attention to their situation.

Awawdeh's lawyer, Ahlam Haddad, said her client is moving between life and death" and that it makes no sense to keep him in detention. He looks like a pile of bones, she said. "How much of a threat can he be?

His family says he not eaten for 160 days, and has only been drinking water, except for a 10-day period when he also received vitamin injections.

Israel is currently holding some 4,400 Palestinians, including militants who have carried out deadly attacks, as well as people arrested at protests or for throwing stones. Around 670 Palestinians are now being held in administrative detention, a number that jumped in March as Israel began near-nightly arrest raids in the West Bank following a spate of deadly attacks against Israelis.

Awawdeh hails from a small town in the southern West Bank and worked as a driver. In his current condition, he uses a wheelchair, and is showing memory loss and speech difficulties.

Haddad said he was arrested in December, accused by Israel of being a member of a militant group, a charge she said he denies.

Dawood Shihab, an Islamic Jihad official, said the group demanded his release as part of the truce talks because it supported his struggle for freedom, not because he is a member.

This is a matter that continues to be a disgrace to all of humanity, he said, referring to the hunger strike and detention.

Haddad said she doesn't know why Islamic Jihad chose to include him in the cease-fire deal, along with a senior West Bank commander Israel arrested last week. She is currently appealing his detention in court.

The arrest of the commander had sparked the weekend fighting, with Israeli launching what it said were preemptive airstrikes at Gaza and Islamic Jihad firing hundreds of rockets at Israel. Dozens of Palestinians were killed during the fighting.

The Israeli Shin Bet security agency did not respond to a request for comment.

Israel says administrative detention is needed to prevent attacks or to keep dangerous suspects locked up without sharing evidence that could endanger valuable intelligence sources.

Israel says it provides due process and largely imprisons those who threaten its security, though a small number are held for petty crimes.

Palestinians and human rights groups say the system is designed to quash opposition and maintain permanent control over millions of Palestinians while denying them basic rights.

Prisoners like Awawdeh have looked to hunger strikes as their only means to protest their detentions. Dozens of prisoners have staved off food for weeks to draw attention to their detention without trial or charges.

The tools detainees have to challenge the unjustness of detention are very few. Hunger strikes are an exceptional measure, a tool for the weakest people who have no other way of advocating for themselves, said Jessica Montell, the director of Hamoked, an Israeli human rights group, who said Israel had turned its system of incarceration of Palestinians into an assembly line.

Lengthy hunger strikes draw international attention and stoke protests in the occupied Palestinian territories, putting pressure on Israel to meet the prisoners demands. Amid that pressure, Israel has at times acceded to hunger strikers demands.

As hunger strikers health deteriorates, they are transferred to Israeli hospitals under guard. They drink water, and medics encourage them to take vitamins, but many refuse.

Haddad said she is hoping to convince a judge that Awawdeh's condition is so life-threatening that he must be released. She said a prison doctor has so far disputed that diagnosis.

No Palestinian in Israeli detention has died as a result of hunger strikes, but doctors say prolonged vitamin deficiency can cause permanent brain damage.

In Awawdeh's home in the occupied West Bank town of Idna, his family was anxiously following the latest cease-fire developments, now that his fate was suddenly linked to international diplomacy.

Awawdeh's wife Dalal told The Associated Press that her husband's release as a result of such efforts would be a victory for the entire Palestinian cause.

___

Goldenberg reported from Tel Aviv, Israel. Imad Isseid contributed.
ATLANTA (AP)  A judge is considering whether Georgia officials should once again be prohibited from enforcing the state's restrictive abortion law while a legal challenge against it is pending.

Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney heard arguments Monday from lawyers for the state and for doctors and advocacy groups who filed a lawsuit challenging the law. He said he needed to think about the issues but that he would issue a ruling soon.

I understand that this is something that needs immediate attention and I will give it that, McBurney said at the end of the hearing.

The hearing focused on whether the judge has the power to block the law temporarily while the litigation plays out and whether the law was invalid from the start because it violated the U.S. Constitution and U.S. Supreme Court precedent when it was enacted.

Georgia's law was passed by state lawmakers and signed by Republican Gov. Brian Kemp in 2019 but it had been blocked from taking effect. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals allowed the state to begin enforcing it last month, just over three weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, which had protected the right to an abortion for nearly 50 years.

The law bans most abortions once a detectable human heartbeat is present. Cardiac activity can be detected by ultrasound in cells within an embryo that will eventually become the heart as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. That means most abortions in Georgia are effectively banned at a point before many women know they are pregnant.

The law includes exceptions for rape and incest, as long as a police report is filed, and allows for later abortions when the mothers life is at risk or a serious medical condition renders a fetus unviable.

The new lawsuit challenging Georgia's law was filed by doctors and advocacy groups July 26, less than a week after the 11th Circuit allowed the law to take effect.

The doctors and advocacy groups are asking the judge to block state officials from enforcing the ban on abortions at about six weeks, as well as another provision of the law that allows prosecutors to examine medical records without a subpoena, while the litigation is pending.

The lawsuit argues that the law violates the fundamental rights to liberty and privacy" under the Georgia Constitution, which it argues are much broader than those granted by the U.S. Constitution. It also asserts that the law is invalid because it was in violation of the U.S. Constitution when it was signed and Georgia case law says that means it must be reenacted to become effective.

The state argues that the judge cannot stop enforcement of the law while the challenge to its constitutionality plays out. The state also rejects the idea that the law was unconstitutional when it passed arguing that the recent Supreme Court ruling overturning those precedents that made it unconstitutional were themselves wrong.
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LOS ANGELES (AP)  Homeless encampments that have proliferated in nearly every neighborhood of Los Angeles will no longer be allowed within 500 feet (152 meters) of schools and day care centers under a sweeping ban approved Tuesday during a City Council meeting disrupted by protesters who said the law criminalizes homelessness.

The council voted 11-3 to broadly expand an existing prohibition on sitting, sleeping or camping that previously only applied to schools and day cares specified by the council.

The meeting was recessed before the vote when dozens of demonstrators shouted their opposition to the measure and police officers cleared the council chamber. One person was arrested, said Los Angeles Police Department Officer Annie Hernandez said.

Protesters also gathered outside City Hall, chanting Abolish 41.18," a reference to the law prohibiting encampments on freeway overpasses, around railroad tracks, near loading docks, at libraries and other locations.

The final vote, which applies to the city's public and private schools, came after two previous votes, including one last week that was also interrupted by a raucous protest.

Los Angeles is among many cities struggling to deal with a surge in homelessness and large encampments scattered along sidewalks that have sparked public outcry.

Supporters of the blanket ban said homeless camps pose health and safety threats to schoolchildren, especially because of the disruptive presence of people with drug addictions or mental illness.

This is something to protect kids in our city, Councilmember Paul Koretz said before voting for the measure. He said asking folks in an encampment to move a couple hundred feet should be be an easy decision if it means children have a safer walk to and from school.

About 750 public school sites are within Los Angeles and nearly 1,000 commercial day care businesses are registered with the city. The new public school year starts next Monday.

Opponents of the ban, including homeless advocates, said it would further criminalize homelessness and waste resources better spent on outreach and connecting people in need to services.

Homeless residents are far more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators, the nonprofit People Assisting The Homeless, or PATH, said in a statement opposing the measure.

Enforcement of anti-camping ordinances, then, only displaces people and makes it harder for trained outreach staff to establish trust again. Residents of cleared encampments, unless connected to stable permanent housing through a trauma-informed case management process, often return to unsheltered homelessness, PATH said in a statement.

The measure must be signed by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti before it takes effect and his office didnt immediately respond to phone and email messages seeking comment.

The ban comes as several hotels are set to end their involvement in the states Project Roomkey, which paid the hotels to provide hundreds of rooms to unsheltered people.
Connecticut State Police /contributed photo

LEBANON  A 75-year-old man died Monday after he went into a pond, apparently after falling off a ride-on lawnmower, state police said.

Troopers were called to Tobacco Street about 10:50 a.m. to help local firefighters at a home where the man was reported to have fallen into a pond, according to police. The troopers learned a neighbor had discovered the man, unresponsive, in the body of water. Medics pronounced him dead at the scene.
SALEM, Ore. (AP)  An Oregon man convicted of exploiting children online has been sentenced to nearly 36 years in prison.

According to the Linn County Sheriffs Office, John DiMolfetto of Gates, Oregon, created dozens of profiles online and texting accounts to manipulate, deceive and exploit children as young as age 7 for nearly a decade, the Corvallis Gazette Times reported.
PALMDALE, Calif. (AP)  A man who forced his way into a Southern California home shot a woman with her own gun and then held her young daughter at gunpoint before surrendering to police, authorities said Monday.

Erin Mauldin, 34, was arrested Sunday after he heeded orders to put down the gun in Palmdale, north of Los Angeles, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

He was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon and kidnapping. He was jailed on $1 billion bail and it wasn't immediately whether he had an attorney to speak for him.

The woman was entering her apartment at about 10:30 p.m. Sunday when the man asked if he could enter because someone was chasing him, according to the Sheriff's Department.

When she refused, he forced his way inside and tried to attack her with a hammer, authorities said.

The woman ran into her bedroom and got a gun but the man overpowered her, took the weapon and shot her, authorities said.

The woman apparently received only a flesh wound, a neighbor who identified herself only as Destiny told KABC-TV.

Once he shot her, he dragged her out the house and thats how she got downstairs, she said. Once she got downstairs, she was able to get away from him.

After the shooting, the gunman took the woman's approximately 10-year-old daughter hostage, running down the street chased by her father, authorities said.

The father backed off when the man pointed the gun at him, and when deputies arrived the man held a gun to her head before obeying orders to drop the weapon, authorities said.

The girl's mother was hospitalized in stable condition.

Deputies said it doesn't appear the man knew the victim.
National Book Lovers Day is Aug. 9, but really, dont people love books all year long?

The Manistee County Library hopes readers spent the day in a quiet spot, enjoying a favorite author or trying something new.

Manistee County Library has new titles for patrons to browse, and staff have been refreshing some of the collections. Check out the new sections, travel, fishing and language.

Adults

 Travel back to the 1970s in Mustique Island by Sarah McCoy. Visit the island where royalty and rock stars play. Wille May does just that when she escapes to the island paradise with her daughters after a messy divorce and the death of her ex-husband.

 The first book in the Inspector Lu Fei Mysteries, Thief of Souls by Brian Kingborg takes the reader to a small town in northern China. When a major crime disrupts the usual peace and quiet, Lu Fei finds himself working the case despite orders from above to wrap it up as the trail leads to a possible serial killer.

 Riley Sagers The House Across the Lake finds Casey, a widowed actress, spending her time watching her neighbors across the lake with the help of binoculars and alcohol. After saving her life, Casey befriends Katherine and realizes things are not as they appear. When her friend disappears, Casey must confront her actions if she wants to discover the truth.

 Two women, one with a past shed rather stay hidden and the other with an unhappy present, connect with each other but find that their past choices will not allow them to be together in Yerba Buena by Nina Lacour.

 Id Like to Play Alone, Please by Tom Segura has been on the New York Times bestseller list for seven weeks. The comedian and podcaster gives his take on parenting, parents, travel and a host of other topics in these hilarious essays.

 David Kertzers The Pope at War: the Secret History of Pius XII, Mussolini, and Hitler is based on fascinating files recently opened at the Vatican, and other countries' archives. Pope Pius XII worked to protect the Vatican and his flock during the Holocaust, aiding Hitler and Mussolini with his silence.

Children

 Potatoes dont make good pets. They really cant do anything. When his pet begins to rot, Albert buries it and gets a wonderful surprise! The Pet Potato by Josh Lacey is an enchanting story about friendship in unlikely places.

 Bryan Colliers Music is a Rainbow will fill your heart as a young boy uses music to recall memories of his parents.

 A call for help from his friends helps Little Tractor overcome his fear after an accident in Little Tractor is Brave by Natalie Quintart.

 What Does Little Crocodile Say at the Park? by Eva Montanari follows a toddler through a busy day at the park with all of its sounds and escapades.

 Being unique makes it difficult for Eva to make friends. While staying at her uncles house, she meets Silvie, and the two are inseparable. Silvie helps Eva work through her fears until the day she disappears. Now Eva must find Silvie by herself in The Midnighters by Hana Tooke.

 Duet by Elise Broach brings together a goldfinch who loves to sing, a boy who doesnt want to play the piano, and a mystery to solve. Along with their friend Emily, Michael and Mirabelle follow clues involving a lost piano and three historical figures.

 In the follow up to Wolf Hollow, Annabelle confronts a former enemy, makes new friends and follows her own path while searching for her brothers missing dog. My Own Lightning by Lauren Wold is a historical novel set in World War II.

 Children will enjoy learning about earth science and climate patterns with How to Make a Mountain: in Just 9 Simple Steps and Only 100 Million Years by Amy Huntington.

 Go beyond hopscotch with The Chalk Art Handbook by David Zinn! This fun and informative book provides techniques, tools and inspiration for making your sidewalk come alive.

For all ages

 Manistee County Library has joined with Backstage Hobbies and Games this summer to provide an opportunity for teens and tweens to play Dungeons and Dragons.

 But its not just for kids. The library recently added the Dungeons and Dragons Dungeon Masters Guide and Players Handbook to the young adult collection to keep the fun going.

 Warriors and Weapons: a Young Adventurers Guide and Beasts and Behemoths: a Young Adventurers Guide are available in the juvenile collection.

 More gatherings are planned for October, November and December. Information will be available at a future date. That will be shared on the librarys website and social media pages.
LOS ANGELES  The nurse accused of killing five people last week when her Mercedes plowed into traffic at a busy Windsor Hills intersection had been involved in 13 previous crashes, Los Angeles County prosecutors alleged Monday in charging her with murder.

Authorities revealed new details about Thursdays crash and about the driver, Nicole Lorraine Linton, 37, whose permanent address is in Texas and who is currently renting a room in Los Angeles while working as a traveling registered nurse.

Prosecutors said they are reviewing multiple previous crashes linked to Linton  both in and out of California  including one in 2020 that involved bodily injury in which two cars were totaled. They provided few additional details, however.

Lintons attorney, Halim Dhanidina, asked the court Monday to continue her arraignment to October because he is reviewing her out-of-state history of documented profound mental health issues. Dhanidina did not elaborate on those issues but said the Windsor Hills crash could be linked to them.

Heres what we know:

The crash

Surveillance video just before Thursdays deadly crash shows a dark-colored Mercedes barreling down La Brea Avenue at high speed as dozens of cars cross on Slauson Avenue in Windsor Hills. Prosecutors say Linton was behind the wheel.

The Mercedes does not appear to slow before running a red light shortly after 1:30 p.m. and slamming into cars in the intersection. The car bursts into flames and hurtles into a light pole, where it comes to rest. After the crash, a streak of fire burned on the ground, and billowing smoke could be seen from miles away.

Prosecutors say Linton was speeding as fast as 90 mph.

At least six vehicles were involved in the crash, according to California Highway Patrol investigators. In addition to the fatalities, eight people were injured.

Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. George Gascon said there is no evidence of any alcohol use by Linton at this point.

In announcing charges against her Monday, he declined to discuss what led to the crash, saying it was still under investigation and he was not going to get into the details.

The aftermath

The impact of the crash and fire it caused killed 23-year-old Asherey Ryan; her 11-month-old child, Alonzo Quintero; her boyfriend, Reynold Lester; and their unborn child. Ryan was 8 months pregnant when she was killed. The boy she was carrying had been named Armani Lester, according to the Los Angeles County coroners office.

Two additional women killed in the crash have yet to be identified.

Linton was hospitalized with moderate injuries for several days before being taken into police custody.

Photographs posted online after the crash appear to show Linton sitting on the curb with a bloody arm. She seems to be wearing hospital scrub pants and a shirt that has writing on the breastplate and sleeve.

Images from the scene show massive front-end damage to the Mercedes, which rammed headfirst into a light pole. A law enforcement source told The Times that Linton suffered a broken foot and broken wrist in the collision, but the cars advanced air bag systems for a front-end collision seem to have protected her from the worst of the impact.

A specialized CHP accident investigation team is extracting data from the Mercedes computers that capture speed, braking and acceleration.

The charges

Linton was charged Monday with six counts of murder and five counts of gross vehicular manslaughter. The vehicular manslaughter charges are for the deaths of the four adults and the baby, who was about two weeks shy of his first birthday. Ryans unborn child cannot be included in those charges.

Linton faces up to life in prison if convicted of all charges.

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Natalie Stone denied her bail, which previously had been set at $9 million, at the request of the district attorneys office, which said she is a flight risk. Linton was set to leave L.A. and travel to Hawaii for work, prosecutors said.
Midland Daily News

A 31-year-old Gaylord man has been taken into custody following an incident where he allegedly brandished a handgun during an argument about someone speeding down the road, Michigan State Police reported.

Around 7:45 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 4, troopers for the MSP Gaylord Post responded to a report of an assault with a dangerous weapon on Estelle Road in Hayes Township. The victim and his passenger reportedly drove to a house on Estelle Road.
HAMMOND, La. (AP)  The remains of a 22-year-old Hammond man reported missing in July have been found nearly 15 miles northeast of his hometown, authorities said.

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office and Louisiana Search and Rescue members found Tyronne Neal's remains in a shallow grave in Husser, an unincorporated community in the parish, on Aug. 2. The next day, detectives arrested a man and a woman who were allegedly responsible for Neal's July 17 disappearance, WAFB-TV reported.
LEE'S SUMMIT, Mo. (AP)  A Black family says racism prompted officials at a suburban Kansas City water park to cancel a private pool party for their 17-year-old son's birthday during the weekend.

Chris Evans said he signed a contract with Summit Waves Aquatic Facility in Lee's Summit to host 250 people for the party on Saturday. But when his sons arrived at the park they were told the reservation was canceled and were not given a reason, Evans said at a news conference Tuesday.

Evans said he and his wife learned while they were on the way to the water park that this event doesnt represent Lees Summit Waves and that my reservation was canceled because (a park official) was uncomfortable," The Kansas City Star reported.

That official, flanked by police officers, met the parents when they arrived and reiterated that the party would not be held.

What are you scared of, Lees Summit? Evans asked at the news conference. Why are you uncomfortable?

Lees Summit Parks and Recreation Department, which operates the water park, said in a statement issued Tuesday that it apologized to the Evans family because of miscommunication and missed processes that led to the cancellation.

The statement said its investigation found the department failed to arrange additional security for the party, which Evans paid for as part of his contract. Parks officials said the event was promoted on social media although the contract said that would not happen.

After several unsuccessful efforts to reach the Evans, the department decided to cancel the party, according to the statement.

Safety pertaining to the anticipated crowd size and the potential impact it might have on party guests and the staff was the sole reason for the cancellation, the statement said.

Park department officials said up to 500 people showed up in the parking lot for the party but Evans countered the event was canceled before the teenagers arrived and there was never anything close to 500 kids in the parking lot.

My kids were heartbroken that the party was canceled, he said. They are good kids who make good grades, have bright futures and do not deserve to be treated like this. And that goes for all the kids at the park that day.

Lees Summit Mayor William Baird on Tuesday criticized the department's handling of the incident and denounced "appalling statements he said a park employee made on social media after the incident.

We must intentionally embrace a culture that is welcoming and inclusive, and we must continually denounce any urge or impulse to exclude, he said.

The parks department's statement on Tuesday said its administrator apologized to the Evans family for the inappropriate and insensitive language used by staff and said appropriate actions would be taken.

The department said it would review its rental processes, including communication, and improve training to align with the city's diversity and inclusion efforts.
CONCORD, N.C. (AP)  The mother of a man fatally shot by a North Carolina police officer during an attempted car theft filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday claiming the officer broke the law when he shot her unarmed son several times, called in the incident, then fired again.

Brandon Combs died after he was shot while behind the wheel of Concord Officer Timothy Larsons police SUV in February, attorneys said.

Attorneys for Virginia Tayara filed the complaint Tuesday in Winston-Salem federal court accusing Larson and the City of Concord of excessive force, assault and battery, wrongful and intentional death and gross negligence, The Charlotte Observer reported. Attorney Harry Daniels said the complaint seeks some form of justice for the Combs family. The family also hopes the civil complaint will jump start some criminal charge or indictment against Larson, he said.

Police officers cannot be judge, jury and executioner. Thats why we have a criminal justice system. Thats why we have the rule of law, Daniels said.

The Cabarrus County District Attorneys Office is investigating Combs death and has had the findings of a probe by the State Bureau of Investigation since June.

Concord Police said in a statement Tuesday that the department was aware of the lawsuit, and we understand people want to know more about the officer and his actions on February 13. To protect the integrity of the review, the department wont make any further comment until the district attorney announces her decision, police said.

Larson, who was later fired by his department, could not be reached for comment and his attorney did not immediately respond to emails from the newspaper seeking comment.

Concord police initially said Larson shot Combs following a physical altercation at the Modern Nissan car dealership, where the 29-year-old Gastonia man was trying to steal a truck. But Daniels said Larsons body-camera captured the truth.

The video has not been publicly released, but Daniels and other family attorneys have seen it. Daniels, who represented the family of Andre Brown after he was fatally shot last year by deputies in Elizabeth City, has called the Combs footage one of the worst police shooting videos he has ever seen.

According to the lawsuit, when Combs got behind the wheel of Larsons patrol vehicle, Larson fired five shots through the windshield of the vehicle, which was not moving. He called in the shooting to the department dispatchers, then fired again.

Larson did not go to Combs aid, the lawsuit claims. Larson, 27, later told the other officers at the scene that he shot Combs because he was trying to steal his SUV.

Larson was fired May, according to documents the newspaper received from a public records request. Chief Gary Gacek cited Larson for insubordination in his termination letter for refusing to answer questions after the shooting and for giving misleading or untrue answers in other instances.
DETROIT (AP)  A tax credit of up to $7,500 could be used to defray the cost of an electric vehicle under the Inflation Reduction Act now moving toward final approval in Congress.

But the auto industry is warning that the vast majority of EV purchases wont qualify for a tax credit that large.

That's mainly because of the bill's requirement that, to qualify for the credit, an electric vehicle must contain a battery built in North America with minerals mined or recycled on the continent.

And those rules become more stringent over time  to the point where, in a few years, it's possible that no EVs would qualify for the tax credit, says John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance of Automotive Innovation, a key industry trade group. As of now, the alliance estimates that about 50 of the 72 electric, hydrogen or plug-in hybrid models that are sold in the United States wouldn't meet the requirements.

The $7,500 credit might exist on paper," Bozzella said in a statement, but no vehicles will qualify for this purchase over the next few years.

The idea behind the requirement is to incentivize domestic manufacturing and mining, build a robust battery supply chain in North America and lessen the industry's dependence on overseas supply chains that could be subject to disruptions.

Production of lithium and other minerals that are used to produce EV batteries is now dominated by China. And the world's leading producer of cobalt, another component of the EV batteries, is the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Though electric vehicles are part of a global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, they require metallic elements known as rare earths, found in places like Myanmar, where an Associated Press investigation has found that the push for green energy has led to environmental destruction.

Under the $740 billion economic package, which passed the Senate over the weekend and is nearing approval in the House, the tax credits would take effect next year. For an EV buyer to qualify for the full credit, 40% of the metals used in a vehicle's battery must come from North America. By 2027, that required threshold would reach 80%.

If the metals requirement isn't met, the automaker and its buyers would be eligible for half the tax credit, $3,750.

A separate rule would require that half the batteries' value must be manufactured or assembled in the North America. If not, the rest of the tax credit would be lost. Those requirements also grow stricter each year, eventually reaching 100% in 2029. Still another rule would require that the EV itself be manufactured in North America, thereby excluding from the tax credit any vehicles made overseas.

Automakers generally dont release where their components come from or how much they cost. But its likely that some versions of Teslas Model Y SUV and Model 3 car, the Chevrolet Bolt car and SUV and the Ford Mustang Mach E would be eligible for at least part of the credit. All those vehicles are assembled in North America.

The tax credit would be available only to couples with incomes of $300,000 or less or single people with income of $150,000 or less. And any trucks or SUVs with sticker prices above $80,000 or cars above $55,000 wouldn't be eligible.

Theres also a new $4,000 credit for buyers of used EVs, a provision that could help modest-income households go electric.

The industry says the North American battery supply chain is too small right now to meet the battery component requirements. It has proposed that the measure expand the list of countries whose battery materials would be eligible for the tax credit to nations that maintain defense agreements with the United States, including NATO members.

One component of the bill would require that after 2024, no vehicle would be eligible for the tax credit if its battery components came from China. Most vehicles now have some parts sourced in China, the alliance said.

Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat and a leading ally of Detroit automakers, complained that Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, a critical Democratic vote, had opposed any tax credits for EV purchases.

I went round-and-round with Senator Manchin, who frankly didnt support any credit of any kind, so this is a compromise, Stabenow told reporters Monday. Well work through it and make this as good as we can for our automakers.

Manchin, long a holdout Democrat who negotiated terms of the deal with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, had blocked previous climate and social spending proposals.

Manchin's office declined to comment. He told reporters last week that he wants automakers to get aggressive and make sure that were extracting in North America, were processing in North America and we put a line on China. I dont believe that we should be building a transportation mode on the backs of foreign supply chains. Im not going to do it.

Stabenow asserted that the bill was written by people who don't understand that manufacturers can't simply flip a switch and create a North American supply chain, though they are working on it. Numerous automakers, including General Motors, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota and Hyundai-Kia, have announced plans to build EV battery plants in the United States.

Katie Sweeney, executive vice president of the National Mining Association, said that industry leaders like the requirement that minerals for batteries be sourced close to home rather than from our geopolitical rivals.

Doing that, she said, "directly supports high-paying jobs here in the United States ... secures our supply chain and really enhances our global competitiveness.

Stabenow said she remains hopeful that the Biden administration can offer the tax credits next year while it works on the detailed rules for the battery requirements.

We will continue to work with the automakers and the administration on getting as much common sense into the regulations as possible, the senator said.

Messages were left Monday seeking comment from the White House and the Treasury Department, which would administer the credits.

Stabenow says she's pleased that the measure would restore tax credits for General Motors, Tesla and Toyota, all of which hit caps under a previous bill and can no longer offer them. Ford, too, she said, is closing in on an EV cap.

____

AP Writers Matthew Daly and Fatima Hussein contributed to this report from Washington.
The new defense team for a Collinsville man's murder trial has been granted a private investigator and DNA expert.

Robert "Bobby" J. Tarr is charged with three counts of first-degree murder in the shooting death of his ex-girlfriend, Leslie Reeves of Troy, Illinois, and one count of attempted first-degree murder in the shooting of Chris Smith of Farmersville, Illinois.

DNA had been the subject of many pre-trial hearings since Tarr's preliminary hearing in January, but Tarr's attorney withdrew and now the Montgomery County, Illinois public defender has taken his case and didn't hold back from putting motions in play to move the case forward.

Read more: Attorney withdraws from defending Tarr in murder case

The four motions brought to the court include a private investigator with a $3,500 cap, according to court documents.

"That's how defendants go about getting their own investigation, is to hire a private investigator," Erin Mattson, Montgomery County public defender and Tarr's new attorney said. "It is very customary  on a case such as this  for the defense to have its own investigator look into things.

"Especially to interview witnesses that if the attorney were to do it alone, then the attorney might need to become a witness. So it's good to have an investigator do that for us  to be able to hear what the witnesses say and ask questions."

Other motions brought to the court included seven hours a week for Tarr to review discovery evidence in the Montgomery County jail's multipurpose room and a motion to have some of Tarr's personal property seized by investigators as potential evidence.

Tarr hand-wrote a motion to Judge Jim Roberts regarding his personal property before Mattson became his attorney. She filed a similar motion that court records identify as "deferred (except partial agreed orders)." Tarr told the court at a previous hearing the items he requested for release are not related to the case.

Read more: Tarr wants evidence dismissed, says jail is overpopulated

A motion for Mattson to obtain the transcripts from Tarr's preliminary hearing was also granted.

Tarr is scheduled to be back in court again via Zoom Friday, September 2, at 2 p.m.

Read more: Accused killer left home twice the night of Farmersville homicide
The Taipei 101 skyscraper commands the urban landscape in Taipei, Taiwan. [Photo/Xinhua]

By Zhang Yi

It's natural for China to feel angry and oppose the recent visit to Taiwan by United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, because the trip openly violates the one-China principle and challenges China's territorial integrity and sovereignty, experts said while explaining China's reaction and the severe countermeasures it has taken.

It's clear that the two sides of the Taiwan Straits are the same country, and the Taiwan question, which is purely China's internal affair, brooks no interference by foreign forces, they said.

Traveling in a military aircraft, Pelosisecond in the line of succession to the US presidentlast week paid a high-profile "official visit to Taiwan", as her office described it in her arrival statement, and was given full protocol treatment by Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities, which make no secret of pursuing "independence" in their party platform.

Pelosi's two-day trip included meeting with the island's leader Tsai Ing-wen and some "human rights" advocates, as well as visiting the island's "legislative "authority.

Hundreds of millions of Chinese watched, discussed and were outraged by the provocative trip that was also followed by unprecedented countermeasures by the Chinese government, including canceling three cooperative dialogues or meetings with the defense authorities of the US, suspending climate talks, and conducting live-fire drills surrounding the Taiwan island.

Bao Chengke, assistant director at the Institute for East Asian Studies in Shanghai, said that the visit has trampled on the one-China principle and China's national sovereignty, and was a move that in nature promoted the concept of "one China, one Taiwan".

To the Chinese side, the one-China principle is a bottom line that cannot be crossed. It has been reiterated numerous times by the Chinese government, and is firmly believed by the Chinese people, that the island of Taiwan has been an inseparable part of China's territory for 1,800 years and it's crystal clear that the two sides of the Straits belong to one China.

It was even worse that Pelosi turned a deaf ear to repeated warnings from the Chinese government and still made the trip, Bao said, adding that when something like this happens, it's reasonable for any country to feel angry and take severe countermeasures.

Lin Kuan-ting, a young man from Taiwan who is studying on the mainland, said he opposes the visit and the US should not interfere in the Taiwan question as the island has always been a part of China. Another Taiwan student on main-land, Lin Pei-ying, said the visit seriously hurt the feelings of compatriots on both sides of the Straits, and the contradictions between the two sides are purely our family matters.

Root of the Taiwan question

As Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, has said, the Taiwan question arose out of the weakness and chaos of the nation and will be resolved as national rejuvenation becomes a reality.

In 1894, Japan launched the First Sino-Japanese War to invade China. In the following year, the government of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) was forced to cede Taiwan to Japan under the unequal Treaty of Shimonoseki.

In 1945, the Chinese people won the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-1945). Taiwan was thus recovered and returned to the motherland.

In 1943, the leaders of China, the US and Britain issued the Cairo Declaration, which clearly states that all territories Japan stole from the Chinese, including Taiwan, shall be restored to China. The Potsdam Declaration of 1945 affirmed that the terms of the Cairo Declaration would be carried out. Thus, Taiwan's legal status as a part of China was irrefutably confirmed.

It was not long, however, before the two sides of the Straits fell into a special state of protracted political confrontation due to civil war in China and the interference of foreign forces.

In 1949, the Central People's Government of the People's Republic of China was established, replacing the Republic of China government as the sole legal government representing the whole of China. It is logical for the government of the People's Republic of China to exercise sovereignty over China, which includes Taiwan.

In 1971, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 2758 with an overwhelming majority vote, restoring all rights of the PRC and recognizing the government of the PRC as the sole legitimate representative of China to the United Nations.

The one-China principle is a widely recognized basic norm of international relations. More than 180 countries have to date established diplomatic relations with China on the basis of their recognition of the one-China principle, according to official records.

When China and the US established diplomatic relations in 1979, the US recognized in the joint communique with China that the government of the PRC is the sole legal government of China. Since then, the US has long been committed to not developing official relations with Taiwan.

"The one-China principle is part of the postwar international order and has become a general international consensus. As a country that thinks of itself as a champion of the 'rules-based international order', the United States should naturally abide by the one-China principle," Chinese Ambassador to the US Qin Gang wrote in an article in The Washington Post on Thursday.

"President Biden has said many times that the United States will not change its one-China policy and does not support 'Taiwan independence'. But for the 'Taiwan independence' forces, Pelosi's visit represents an exceptionally strong signal that 'the US is on Taiwan's side'. This goes against the one-China principle, the three Sino-US joint communiques and America's own commitments," the article said.

Wu Yongping, director of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Tsinghua University, said that US support for "Taiwan independence "separatists is a fundamental reason why the Taiwan question is so difficult to resolve.

The US has tried to obscure and hollow out the one-China principle, Wu said, adding that it has colluded with "Taiwan independence" forces on the island and elevated relations with the island in various ways, including arms sales.

After the DPP came to power in Taiwan, it refused to recognize the 1992 Consensus which embodies the one-China principle, creating an increasingly tense and confrontational atmosphere across the Straits, according to Bao from the Institute for East Asian Studies.

Common will

Despite the complex situation, experts believe that the two sides of the Straits must be reunified in the future, which is also the will of the entire Chinese nation.

The mainland has great patience in dealing with the Taiwan question, and it has been working to promote integrated development and cooperation between people across the Straits in order to gradually overcome the resentment and differences and find the path of future reunification, Bao said.

Wu said the mainland's ability to resolve the Taiwan question has been increasing as well, which could been seen in the recent countermeasures, and no other forces should underestimate such ability and China's determination to safeguard its sovereignty and unity.

Xinhua contributed to this story.
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TOKYO (AP)  Nagasaki paid tribute to the victims of the U.S. atomic bombing 77 years ago on Aug. 9, with the mayor saying Russia's war on Ukraine showed the world that another nuclear attack is not just a worry but a tangible and present crisis.

Mayor Tomihisa Taue, in his speech Tuesday at the Nagasaki Peace Park, said nuclear weapons can be used as long as they exist, and their elimination is the only way to save the future of humankind.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine and threat of nuclear weapons use came only a month after it and four other nuclear powers pledged in a statement that nuclear war should never be fought, Taue noted.

This has shown the world that the use of nuclear weapons is not a groundless fear but a tangible and present crisis, he said. The belief that nuclear weapons can be possessed not for actual use but for deterrence is a fantasy, nothing more than a mere hope."

As in Hiroshima, Russia and its ally Belarus were not invited to the memorial event in Nagasaki.

The United States dropped the worlds first atomic bomb on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, destroying the city and killing 140,000 people. It dropped a second bomb three days later on Nagasaki, killing another 70,000. Japan surrendered on Aug. 15, ending World War II and Japans nearly half-century of aggression in Asia.

Participants, including diplomats from nuclear states, observed a moment of silence at 11:02 a.m., the moment the bomb exploded above the southern Japanese city on Aug. 9, 1945.

Although Russia last week tried to roll back on Putins warning, fears of a third atomic bombing have grown amid Russias threats of nuclear attack since its war on Ukraine began in February. Russia last week shelled a Ukrainian city close to Europe's largest nuclear plant.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said, Even though we face a severe security environment, we must pursue the history of non-nuclear use and make Nagasaki the last place of nuclear attack.

Japanese officials worry that the conflict may embolden China to be even more assertive in East Asia, and the government is pushing to further step up its military capability and spending.

Japan renounces its own possession, production or hosting of nuclear weapons, but as a U.S. ally Japan hosts 50,000 American troops and is protected by the U.S. nuclear umbrella. Still, Russia's nuclear threat has prompted some hawkish lawmakers in the governing party have also proposed a possibility of nuclear sharing with the United States.

Taue said discussions about nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation over the past decades have not been put into practice and trust in the 1968 Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons has become tenuous.

We must recognize that ridding ourselves of nuclear weapons is the only realistic way of protecting the Earth and humankinds future, Taue said.

Taue urged Japan's government to exercise leadership in pursuing peace diplomacy that does not rely on nuclear deterrence.

Nuclear weapons are not deterrence, said Takashi Miyata, an 82-year-old survivor, or hibakusha. He said possible nuclear sharing is the opposite of our wish."

Air-raid sirens and scenes of bombed-out Ukraine reminded him of the pika don, or the flash and explosion of the atomic bombing that Miyata experienced at age 5. His uncle and aunt died in the bombing, and his father died of leukemia five years later. Miyata also developed cancer 10 years ago.

Many survivors of the bombings have lasting injuries and illnesses resulting from the explosions and radiation exposure and have faced discrimination in Japan.

As of March, 118,935 survivors are certified as eligible for government medical support, according to the health and welfare ministry. Their average age now exceeds 84.
ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)  The suspected gunmen who killed dozens of worshippers during a church service in southwestern Nigeria in June have been arrested, Nigeria's top military officer said on Tuesday, two months after the attack which shocked many in the West African nation.

We have arrested those behind the dastardly act in Owo, General Leo Irabor, Nigeria's Chief of Defense Staff, said in a meeting with local media, according to the Abuja-based Daily Trust newspapers.

Neither Irabor nor the police who confirmed the arrest to The Associated Press provided further details into the development. The Nigerian general however said investigations are still ongoing and in due course, the world will see them and others who are behind other daring attacks in the country.

The gunmen stormed the St. Francis Catholic Church in Ondo state just as the worshippers gathered on Pentecost Sunday and killed at least 40 of them, authorities said. The incident shocked many in Ondo which is one of Nigerias most peaceful states and had been largely spared the violent attacks across the West African nation, particularly in the troubled north where Islamic extremist rebels of Boko Haram and other armed groups operate.

The church attack in Owo had the imprints of the Islamic State of West African Province, an offshoot of Boko Haram, Nigerian officials said after the attack. Security analysts have since last year warned that the Islamic rebels in Nigeria's north are now spreading to other parts of the country.

Bishop Jude Arogundade of the Ondo Catholic Diocese told AP that residents in Ondo and the church in Nigeria are already getting frustrated that after two months, people came to kill 40 people and we do not have any information about it.

He said the Catholic church has not been informed yet of the arrests and continues to wait to hear the motive because we are a peaceful organization, we dont get into politics or into controversial issues.
DOWNEY, Calif. (AP)  An off-duty Southern California police officer slain in a daytime shooting in a parking lot was a rookie who had just started his field training, authorities said Tuesday.

Monterey Park Police Chief Kelly Gordon identified the slain officer as Gardiel Solorio, 26, who had joined her department as a recruit in January.
ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistani police Tuesday arrested a prominent politician from the party of former Prime Minister Imran Khan for allegedly attempting to incite soldiers to revolt against the top military leadership.

The arrest of Shahbaz Gill, chief of staff at Khan's Tehreek-e-Insaf opposition party, was quickly condemned by party officials, including Khan, who took to Twitter to denounce Gill's arrest.

This is an abduction, not an arrest. Can such shameful acts take place in any democracy? Political workers (are) treated as enemies. And all to make us accept (a) foreign-backed government of crooks," he tweeted..

The charges against Gill carry up to a death sentence if he is found guilty.

Gills arrest came a day after he appeared on the countrys ARY news channel and spoke at length about the current political situation. In it he urged troops up to the brigadier level not to accept any illegal order from the top military leadership.

It was unclear what prompted him to make such a comment, which stunned the government of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, who replaced Khan in April. Khans government was ousted through a no-confidence vote.

Gill in his remarks Monday implied that soldiers up to brigadier-level officers are Khan supporters and only some generals oppose Khan and his party. Pakistan's media regulator suspended ARY TV operations for broadcasting Gill's remarks. Pakistan's media regulatory authority in a notice to ARY sought an explanation from it for broadcasting hateful, seditious and malicious content." ARY TV is widely known to be a supporter of Khan and a critic of the country's powerful military as well as Prime Minister Sharif's government since Khan's government was ousted.

On Tuesday, Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said Gill was arrested on treason charges because he attempted to incite people and troops against state institutions, a reference to the country's armed forces.

Sanaullah accused Khan of trying to create a division within the military since his ouster as premier.

Khan in recent speeches at rallies has repeatedly blamed the countrys army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa for allegedly taking part in an alleged U.S. plot aimed at ousting him. Washington and the army have denied the charge.

Gill was to appear before a judge Wednesday and his lawyers are likely to seek his bail.
LEAVENWORTH, Wash. (AP)  A Redmond, Washington man has died in a kayaking accident on the Wenatchee River.

The Chelan County Sheriffs Office said the 25-year-old man was seen kayaking without a life jacket when he went underwater this past Sunday, KOMO-TV reported.

Swimmers in the area, near the Leavenworth KOA on the Wenatchee River, tried to save the man and were able to get him to shore.

He was rushed to Central Washington Hospital, where he died.

The sheriff's office said it wants people to remember the waters are colder and more swift than usual and everyone should wear a life jacket.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California delayed or improperly denied unemployment benefits for roughly 6 million people during the pandemic because state policies do not prioritize getting benefits to workers quickly, according to a nonpartisan report released Monday by the Legislative Analyst's Office.

The report said payments were delayed for about 5 million people  up to half of all workers who applied for benefits during the height of the pandemic. Meanwhile, the California Employment Development Department denied benefits for 3.4 million workers during that time. Of the 200,000 workers who appealed those denials, nearly 80% of them won their case.

We believe many of the workers who did not appeal likely were eligible, meaning the state may have improperly denied 1 million additional claims, said Chas Alamo, principal fiscal and policy analyst for the Legislative Analyst's Office.

The report blamed these failures on the basic design of California's unemployment program, which it said is geared more toward the businesses that fund the program than the workers who benefit from it.

Businesses' tax rates go up each time one of their former workers is awarded unemployment benefits. From 2019 through 2021, more than half of the Employment Development Department's decisions to deny benefits were overturned on appeal. But in other states, less than 25% of denials were overturned on appeal, according to the report.

State policies and practices formed under this orientation would tend to emphasize holding down business costs potentially at the expense of making sure eligible workers can get benefits easily, the report said.

Of the 3.4 million workers who had benefits denied during the pandemic, most of them were for not providing necessary documents on time  rules aimed at preventing fraud. But during that time, the report said the Employment Development Department had no system to process unopened mail and answered less than 1% of its phone calls because of overwhelming demand.

The report said California denied some benefits despite the fact that the claimants were clearly eligible. In one case reviewed by the Legislative Analyst's Office, the state denied a claim because the worker was caring for her children while unemployed, thus making her unavailable for work. State rules allow parents to look after their children while they are unemployed, as long as they arrange child care once they get a new job.

Individually, policies and actions aimed at preventing fraud may appear justified and reasonable, the report said. Viewed as a whole, however, the collection makes getting benefits unreasonably difficult for eligible workers.

The Employment Development Department said it will carefully review the LAO's ideas, adding that it has already adopted many of its recommendations. Earlier this year, the state Legislature gave the department $136 million for improved call centers, simplifying forms and notices, coming up with new tools to better reveal fraud and upgrading training for workers to get payments approved faster.

During the pandemic, EDD has paid over $180 billion to Californians in need, the department wrote in an unsigned email to The Associated Press. The pandemic tested every benefit system in the country, exposing the need to deliver better systems and modernize operations.

Michael Bernick, a former director of the Employment Development Department, said the report was unfair because it placed too much blame on the state. Unemployment benefits is a joint program with the federal government. Much of the anti-fraud policies are mandated by federal rules, he said.

At the start of the pandemic, California officials took several steps to speed up the payment of benefits. But soon it was clear the state was the victim of unprecedented amounts of fraud, with state officials estimating as much as $20 billion in unemployment payments going to criminals. Audits revealed hundreds of millions were paid in the names of death row inmates and, in one case, U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein.

Nearly all of that fraud came from a special federally funded program aimed at giving unemployment benefits to people who usually are not eligible to receive them because they are either independent contractors or self-employed. That special program, which has now ended, did not include many anti-fraud safeguards that are part of the traditional unemployment program.

In the face of intense criticism, Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration reacted by installing new identify verification software and making other changes to root out fraud.

There is a balance between rapid payment and paying out fraudulent or inappropriate claims, and it's not true that EDD has not made getting benefits a priority, Bernick said.

Assembly member Cottie Petrie-Norris, a Democrat and chair of the Assembly Accountability and Administrative Review Committee, said lawmakers hope to see major advances in how quickly the department can assess threats and resolve claims.

Assembly member Jim Patterson, a Republican from Fresno, is skeptical. He noted the state was warned in an audit just before the pandemic that the state was not prepared to handle a large influx of claims.

They were warned and didn't do anything about it, he said. I just don't buy the excuse they were overwhelmed.
WASHINGTON (AP)  After Russia invaded Ukraine last February, the European Union moved to block RT and Sputnik, two of the Kremlin's top channels for spreading propaganda and misinformation about the war.

Nearly six months later, the number of sites pushing that same content has exploded as Russia found ways to evade the ban. They've rebranded their work to disguise it. They've shifted some propaganda duties to diplomats. And they've cut and pasted much of the content on new websites  ones that until now had no obvious ties to Russia.

NewsGuard, a New York-based firm that studies and tracks online misinformation, has now identified 250 websites actively spreading Russian disinformation about the war, with dozens of new ones added in recent months.

Claims on these sites include allegations that Ukraine's army has staged some deadly Russian attacks to curry global support, that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is faking public appearances, or that Ukrainian refugees are committing crimes in Germany and Poland.

Some of the sites pose as independent think tanks or news outlets. About half are English-language, while others are in French, German or Italian. Many were set up long before the war and were not obviously tied to the Russian government until they suddenly began parroting Kremlin talking points.

They may be establishing sleeper sites, said NewsGuard co-CEO Gordon Crovitz. Sleeper sites are websites created for a disinformation campaign that lay largely dormant, slowly building an audience through innocuous or unrelated posts, and then switching to propaganda or disinformation at an appointed time.

While NewsGuard's analysis found that much of the disinformation about the war in Ukraine is coming from Russia, it did find instances of false claims with a pro-Ukrainian bent. They included claims about a hotshot fighter ace known as the Ghost of Kyiv that officials later admitted was a myth.

YouTube, TikTok and Meta, which owns Facebook and Instagram, all pledged to remove RT and Sputnik from their platforms within the European Union. But researchers have found that in some cases all Russia had to do to evade the ban was to post it from a different account.

The Disinformation Situation Center, a Europe-based coalition of disinformation researchers, found that some RT video content was showing up on social media under a new brand name and logo. In the case of some video footage, the RT brand was simply removed from the video and reposted on a new YouTube channel not covered by the EU's ban.

More aggressive content moderation of social media could make it harder for Russia to circumvent the ban, according to Felix Kartte, a senior adviser at Reset, a U.K.-based nonprofit that has funded the Disinformation Situation Center's work and is critical of social medias role in democratic discourse.

"Rather than putting effective content moderation systems in place, they are playing whack-a-mole with the Kremlins disinformation apparatus, Kartte said.

YouTube's parent company did not immediately respond to questions seeking comment about the ban.

In the EU, officials are trying to shore up their defenses. This spring the EU approved legislation that would require tech companies to do more to root out disinformation. Companies that fail could face big fines.

European Commission Vice President Vera Jourova last month called disinformation a growing problem in the EU, and we really have to take stronger measures.

The proliferation of sites spreading disinformation about the war in Ukraine shows that Russia had a plan in case governments or tech companies tried to restrict RT and Sputnik. That means Western leaders and tech companies will have to do more than shutter one or two websites if they hope to stop the flow of Kremlin disinformation.

The Russians are a lot smarter, said NewsGuard's other co-CEO, Steven Brill.
Saginaw Valley State University welcomed President-elect George Grant Jr. on Tuesday afternoon.

Grant will serve as the fifth university president and its first president of color. He begins duties on Dec. 1.

"It (this university) is a part of the community, it is not separate," he told members of the press at an event in Curtiss Hall. "That passion that I have, plays out here every single day."

The Board of Control appointed Grant Tuesday morning during a special meeting, a press conference followed to introduce the newest member of university leadership. Grant will succeed Donald Bachand, who is retiring after serving as president since 2014.

Grant is currently serving as chancellor of Pennsylvania State University-Berks, a campus of more than 2,100 students, which he has led since Jan. 4, 2021. Prior to that, he spent 24 years at Grand Valley State University, including 12 years as dean of the College of Community and Public Service.

We are delighted that Chancellor Grant has agreed to join SVSU and serve as our next president, said Vicki Rupp, chair of the SVSU Board of Control. He is a caring, committed and innovative leader with an outstanding record of success in academic program development, fundraising, and community outreach, among many accomplishments.

As Detroit native, he welcomes the opportunity to return to his home state and to join a university that aligns with his personal values. In terms of how Grant sees SVSU fitting into the scope of 15 public universities in Michigan, Grant said the university collaborates with its education partners on how to build and attract talent to Michigan's industries.

"All of us are looking at the state and saying 'Our state can be stronger, we can bring people back,' that's a key point," he said. "If you look at Saginaw Valley, we have the skill set to address those issues and make a difference in this state. The model that we develop in the state will then be duplicated around the country."

More Information The SVSU campus community is pleased to welcome George Grant Jr. to serve as the institution's fifth president. The SVSU Board of Control announced the appointment Tuesday during a special meeting. See More Collapse

During his tenure as dean at Grand Valley, Grant raised more than $46 million. He also developed new academic programming to support adult learners who were juggling work, family, and other demands. Grant implemented Master of Social Work programs in rural communities across Michigan to give students access to an advanced degree to better serve their communities.

Grant studied at Wayne County Community College prior to completing a bachelors degree in social work at Marygrove College in Detroit. He later completed a masters degree in social work at Grand Valley State University and a Ph.D. in sociology at Western Michigan University. Grant also earned a certificate from the Harvard Institute in Educational Management.

Rajkumari Wiener, vice chair of the Board of Control and an SVSU alumna, appreciates Grants record of bringing people together.

Georges career has been characterized by his commitment to collaboration, inclusion, and diversity, Wiener said. He has a broad vision of institutional and community relationships. SVSU has been blessed with a great tradition of presidential leadership. George will add to that tradition.

SVSU has seen only four prior presidents since its founding in 1963.

This story was updated, following a press conference at Saginaw Valley State University on Tuesday
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DALLAS (AP)  A man accused of shooting three Asian American women at a hair salon was indicted Tuesday on multiple counts, including committing a hate crime.

The Dallas County District Attorneys Office announced the indictment Tuesday of Jeremy Terrence Smith, 37, for the May 11 shooting at a salon in Dallas Koreatown. It alleges Smith entered the salon and fired 13 shots from a .22-caliber rifle, wounding three women and endangering four others.

Smith is alleged to have intentionally selected the complainants because of his bias or prejudice against Asian Americans, according to the statement.

According to a police affidavit, Smiths girlfriend told police detectives that he had been delusional about Asian Americans since being involved in a car crash two years ago with a man of Asian descent. She said he had been admitted to several mental health facilities because of the delusions.

Whenever Smith is around an Asian American, he begins having delusions that the Asian mob is after him or attempting to harm him, his girlfriend told police. She said he was fired for verbally attacking his boss, who was of Asian descent.

The indictment charges Smith with seven counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, each with a hate-crime enhancement. Each count is punishable by from five to 99 years in prison.

Smith remains in the Dallas County jail with bonds totaling $700,000. A message to his attorney seeking comment was not immediately returned.

Anti-Asian violence has risen sharply in recent years. Last year, six women of Asian descent were among the eight killed in a shooting at massage businesses in and near Atlanta, heightening anger and fear among Asian Americans. And a West Texas man was sentenced to 25 years in prison earlier this month for attacking an Asian family outside a Midland, Texas, department store in 2020 because he thought they were Chinese and therefore responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.
Congressman John Moolenaar announced Monday that FEMA was awarding the Village of Sanford $1.6 million for their 24-acre park that the municipality is currently rebuilding.

"This funding will help Sanford restore its outstanding park and reimburse the village for many of the expenses it has already incurred,Moolenaar said in a press release. In Congress, I was a strong advocate for increasing federal cost-sharing for disasters because the funding will help our communities save millions of dollars.

In May, the Daily News reported that Sanford was originally awarded $873,000 from FEMA for the rebuilding of Village Park, a park destroyed after the dam breach in May 2020. Then Sandfrod Village President Dolores Porte, along with former Sanford village manager Jake Cole and Three Rivers Corporation, appealed the award. This resulted in a higher FEMA award of $2.7 million in April. Porte said the appeal was made due to market price changes and finding more damage than was first assessed.

Porte said the overall FEMA award will be closer to $2.4 million after deductions are made due to other awarded grants, such as the Department of Natural Resources grant.

On Tuesday, Congressman Dan Kildee, Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, applauded the $1.6 million in new federal funding to help the village of Sanford recover from recent flooding. He said the $1,616,753 from FEMA will help the village of Sanford repairs their park and recreation facilities that were severely damaged in May 2020.

Porte said the construction started in June using money that was announced in April. Contractors are presently grading the park area and doing the dirt work.

We are in the process of buying equipment for the playground, fencing and pavilion equipment, Porte said.

She said the park represents multiple communities coming together and a place for children to play.

This is where its all going to come together; The last remnant of the past destruction, she added. We will be able to see the transformation in the park and remove the last monstrosity of destruction. The hope, enthusiasm for the last frontier is contagious.

Also in April, FEMA announced that state and local governments affected by major disasters in 2020 and 2021 would receive 90 percent federal cost-sharing support from the federal government. Previously, the federal government was responsible for 75% of the costs, and state and local governments were responsible for 25%. This new cost-sharing ratio will apply to mid-Michigan communities who received federal support in response to the May 2020 flooding and dam failures.

Porte said the village expects to have the park completed by June 2023, with the ball fields being the priority.

Three Rivers bid $3,596,000 for the rebuild, with an option for the village to renegotiate later if funding becomes an issue. The rebuild includes multiple ball diamonds, including two tee-ball, one softball and five little league diamonds. Other amenities include a sledding hill, horseshoe pits, two pavilions, two playgrounds and a boat launch.

Porte said the village is still working to raise money to host all the hoped-for amenities. She said they are working with foundations and possible sponsors for this endeavor. If the village doesnt raise the needed funds, it will have to scale back or nix some of the plans.
MOULTON, Ala. (AP)  An Alabama deputy shot and killed a man who pointed a modified flare gun at him after fleeing a traffic stop, law enforcement officials said.

The Lawrence County Sheriff's office said Marty Hutto, 50, was shot and killed Saturday after he pointed a gun at the deputy. Investigators said they later discovered it was a flare gun loaded with a modified 12-guage shotgun shell, according to a press release from the sheriff's office.

The sheriff's department said the deputy was trying to stop Hutto who was driving a truck down the center of the road. They said Hutto first threw bottles and nails at the deputy's car. After his truck became disabled, Hutto got out of the truck and pointed the flare gun at the deputy, the sheriff's office said.

The sheriff's office said Hutto had outstanding warrants for domestic violence.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said Monday that it is reviewing the incident at the request of the sheriff. The deputy is on paid leave during the investigation.

Lawrence County Sheriff Max Sanders said he supported the deputy.

We have an incredible group of men and women that serve Lawrence County and put themselves in harms way. I stand by my deputies. Any threat to their safety will be met in kind. Please keep my deputy, the deputys family, and the families affected by this in your thoughts and prayers, Sanders said in a statement posted on Facebook.

Hutto's family told WAAY that theyre frustrated with a lack of information from the sheriffs office. Family members told the news station that they learned of Huttos death on Facebook.

He didnt deserve this, not the way he got shot down. We just want justice for our brother, because this aint right, Hutto's sister, Cathy Hill, told the station.
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KARBALA, Iraq (AP)  Shiites in Iraq, Lebanon and Pakistan chanted, paraded and beat their chests on Tuesday as they marked Ashoura, one of the most important dates on the religious calendar, commemorating the 7th century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein.

The symbols of Shiite piety and penitence blanketed major cities in Iraq, where Hussein was believed killed at the battle of Karbala, south of Baghdad, in 680 A.D.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people converge on Karbala, some 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of Baghdad, to observe the solemn holy day.

Shiites carried out one of the most spectacular rituals of the holy day, involving thousands of people sprinting from an area outside the center of Karbala toward the gold-domed shrine of Hussein to enact their rush to answer their beloved saint's cries for help in battle.

Shiites see Hussein and his descendants as the rightful heirs to the prophet. His killing at the hands of a rival Muslim faction embodies the rift between the Sunni and Shiite sects of Islam and continues to shape the identity of the minority branch of Islam today.

The public rituals of Ashoura often fuel sectarian tensions in places like Iraq, Lebanon and Pakistan where Islams two main sects both reside.

Security forces were on high alert for any violence, as Sunni extremist groups that consider the Shiites heretics have seized on the occasion to mount attacks in years past.

Pakistan's Interior Ministry warned militants could target the Ashoura commemorations. Under stepped-up security measures, mass rallies continued for a second day in Islamabad and major cities across Pakistan, where participants rhythmically beat their bodies with knife-edged chains. Men staggered through the streets, blood dripping down their backs.

Imam Hussain taught us to fight against oppression, said Syed Muhammad Haider Naqvi, a Shiite scholar at a procession in Karachi, Pakistans largest city. He taught us not to let anyone usurp others rights.

In Iraq, the powerful cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has used the emotional religious occasion to stir up support for his movement, deepening the country's inter-Shiite divisions. Unable to form a government, Iraq descended further into political chaos last week when thousands of al-Sadr's supporters stormed and occupied the parliament building. Their sit-in continues outside the assembly, making it impossible for lawmakers to convene and raising the specter of civil strife.

In the Shiite-dominated Baghdad suburb of Sadr City, al-Sadr's portrait hangs from nearly every door. Processions of men and boys expressed extreme fervor in the Ashoura rituals of self-flagellation. They beat their heads and chests in unison and whipped themselves with chains until blood started flowing.

We inherited this from our fathers and grandfathers, said participant Hamza Abdul-Jalil. God willing, we will continue on this path.

In Lebanon, where Shiites make up about a third of the Mediterranean nations 5 million people, processions shut down areas across the country and Beiruts biggest suburb, the stronghold of the militant Hezbollah group.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah addressed the large gathering of Ashoura mourners in south Beirut, delivering a stern warning to archenemy Israel over the two countries' maritime border dispute.

We are serious in this battle to the maximum level, Nasrallah proclaimed to the procession.

Tens of thousands of men, women and children shrouded in black marched through the streets, waving yellow Hezbollah flags. The chants of mourners and thunder of blood-soaked men beating their chests echoed in the air.

At your service, oh Hussein, they cried.

___

Associated Press writers Munir Ahmed in Islamabad and Bassem Mroue in Beirut contributed.
For months, right-wing agitators with millions of followers have peddled the idea that a moment was coming soon when violence would become necessary - a patriotic duty - to save the republic.

With the FBI search Monday of Donald Trump's compound in Florida, that moment is now, according to enraged commentators' all-caps, exclamation-pointed screeds urging supporters of the former president to take up arms. Within hours of the search at Mar-a-Lago, a chorus of Republican lawmakers, conservative talk-show hosts, anti-government provocateurs and pro-Trump conspiracy theorists began issuing explicit or thinly veiled calls for violence.

"Today is war. That is all you will get on today's show," right-wing podcaster Steven Crowder announced Tuesday to his nearly 2 million followers on Twitter, referring to the program that goes to his YouTube audience of 5.6 million.

Extremist organizers have tried to hold on to the momentum they built in recent years by finding big-tent causes disparate factions could rally around, such as opposition to pandemic restrictions, "Stop the Steal" election denial, or an imagined socialist "indoctrination" of schoolchildren. With each iteration, analysts say, the networks have grown more sophisticated and more violent, as evidenced by the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021.

The FBI's search at Mar-a-Lago for classified documents is now presented as a tipping point, an existential threat to the United States that true patriots must thwart.

Extremism researcher Caroline Orr Bueno compiled a collage of dozens of screenshots of tweets calling for violence in response to the search, or "raid" in the parlance of Trump supporters. "I already bought my ammo," one person boasted in the sampling. "Civil war! Pick up arms, people!" ordered another.

An immediate concern is the safety of the federal judge in Florida who approved the search warrant. Once his name made its way to right-wing forums, threats and conspiracy theories soon followed. Online pro-Trump groups spread his contact information and, as of Tuesday afternoon, the judge's official page was no longer accessible on the court's website.

Orr Bueno said it was ominous to see "a disturbing number of elected Republicans and influential right-wing figures joining in on the 'civil war' rhetoric."

"This whole situation is red meat for their base. They use events like this to feed into this fantasy they've co-created with their supporters, and defusing the situation would require stepping out of that alternate reality," said Orr Bueno, a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Maryland who studies disinformation. "They're not going to do that, particularly with 2024 right around the corner."

Since the search Monday, Telegram channels popular with right-wing militants have been awash with vows to "lock and load" for civil war against what they deem a tyrannical federal government subverting the Constitution and "persecuting" a patriotic leader. NBC News identified one user who referenced civil war on TheDonald, a Reddit-like forum for Trump supporters, as Tyler Welsh Slaeker, who is awaiting sentencing for his role in storming the Capitol.

In mainstream GOP quarters, extremism trackers say, the nudges toward violence are more subtle, with statements delegitimizing the government as a "police state" or a "banana republic" that must be opposed, starting with the dismantling of federal agencies. Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis called the search "the weaponization of federal agencies against the Regime's political opponents."

At 9:42 p.m. on Monday, Charlie Kirk, leader of the student conservative group Turning Point USA, which has held its annual gala at Mar-a-Lago, tweeted: "The people who did this want to stoke civil conflict. Don't fall for it." Not even an hour later, Kirk had changed his tune, adding another tweet at 10:39 p.m. that read, "They will not stop until they fear a cost for their abuse. That is how it works." The comments below the post made clear that both his supporters and detractors interpreted the message as a call for militant action.

Far-right Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., tweeted "DEFUND THE FBI!!" She added an image of an upside-down U.S. flag, which many on the right have embraced as a symbol of the nation in distress.

"If this line of thought continues, I suspect we'll see more far-right chatter about federal government buildings or people being legitimate targets," warned Casey Cox, a political scientist at Texas A&M University who studies domestic terrorism.

The Mar-a-Lago probe put a spotlight on violent and dehumanizing political speech, but it has been lurking in the background for months. Examples in the past year include Jarome Bell, a Republican running for Congress in Virginia, who tweeted a call to put to death anyone convicted of voter fraud: "Arrest all involved. Try all involved. Convict all involved. Execute all involved." Wendy Rogers, a far-right state senator in Arizona, told a white nationalist convention in Florida that "we need to build more gallows" to handle "traitors."

In remarks in Nashville, Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., said "the militant left wing in our country has become the enemy within." He added: "You may think that's pretty dramatic, right, calling them the 'enemy within'? Yes, I am."

If the goal is to normalize vigilante violence as a political response, studies show that the tactic seems to be working.

A recent Washington Post-University of Maryland poll found that about 1 in 3 Americans say they believe violence against the government can at times be justified, the largest share to feel that way in more than two decades. Other studies similarly have found a growing tolerance of violent ideologies that historically were confined to fringe elements.

In his classroom at Texas A&M, Cox shows students how these ideas were laundered into the mainstream right over decades, creating an "increasing undertone of violence that has been simmering from the early '90s." By 2008, coinciding with the right-wing backlash to Barack Obama's presidency, the messaging was becoming more overt.

"Certainly by 2008 or '09 we do see more pronounced violence. We see more campaign ads either on TV or online featuring 'targets.' You have Ted Cruz cooking bacon on the barrel of a gun. And I don't think it's a big leap to go from that to Eric Greitens and his 'RINO-hunting,' " Cox said, referring to a U.S. Senate candidate's recent campaign ad promoting vigilante violence against people described as "Republicans in name only."

Cox said aggressive gerrymandering has created a more extreme electorate, forcing politicians to veer further right to stay in office. Violent rhetoric that once was considered disqualifying is now politics as usual, a shift that began before Trump but was hastened under his presidency. As shown by the Jan. 6 riot investigation, Cox said, veiled calls for violence in political speech move quickly from more mainstream outlets such as Fox News to far-right extremist forums.

"By the time you get through some of that, you can really see a lot of the sheen coming off, where 'We're going to have a wild rally' becomes, 'Bring weapons, we're going to storm the Capitol,' " Cox said.

Extremism analysts said that's what they fear is happening now, with a burst of inflammatory rhetoric this week telling millions of Republicans that they should abandon trust in the FBI, the electoral system, schools - virtually all functions of government.

Holley Hansen, an assistant professor at Oklahoma State University who researches political violence and conflict mediation, cited a description of democracy as "governance through conflict," a system that encourages vigorous debate but with mechanisms to resolve disagreements peacefully. The problem, Hansen said, is that the 2020 election denial was a catalyst in the militant movement's long game to undermine democratic institutions and seize power by force.

"If you can't trust the institutions that are designed to peacefully resolve disputes and you begin to see the other side as an enemy," Hansen said, "the desire to act - and the need to act - really becomes more easily justified."
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COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (AP)  Hundreds of Sri Lankans on Tuesday rallied against a government crackdown and the use of emergency laws against peaceful protesters demanding answers to the countrys worst economic crisis.

Protesters led by religious and trade union leaders marched to the Independence Square in Colombo and made several demands to the government including the withdrawal of emergency laws, an end to the arrests of peaceful protesters, the immediate dissolution of Parliament and relief for those burdened by the hardship and shortages of basic supplies.

Four months of street protests culminated last month when former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled to Singapore and resigned after demonstrators stormed his official home and occupied several key government buildings. His brother Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned as prime minister in May and four other family members had quit as ministers before him.

Protesters accuse the Rajapaksa family of plunging the country into the crisis through mismanagement and corruption.

The former prime minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, was elected by Parliament to complete Rajapaksas five-year term until 2024, but many of the protesters are unhappy with him and say he was backed by lawmakers who are still loyal to the Rajapaksas to protect the former ruling family from being held accountable.

Several groups had initially called a major rally to force Wickremesinghe out of office but a lack of support forced them to hold smaller protests. They called for a temporary government, the dissolution of Parliament and fresh elections.

Since his election, Wickremesinghe has authorized the military and police to violently dismantle protest camps and arrest those they identified to have trespassed the presidential palace and other state buildings.

Wickremesinghe on Tuesday visited the army headquarters and thanked soldiers who protected Parliament when protesters tried to enter last month.

If we had lost Parliament, it would have created a big problem ... we would have lost the governance system that we know, Wickremesinghe said, adding that now it was up to lawmakers to win over the confidence of the people.
STAMFORD  A city man awaiting trial on an attempted murder charge was sentenced to four years in prison on Tuesday after he plead guilty to violating his probation twice.

Jeff Etienne, 25, was accused of violating his probation on two separate occasions in 2019, according to his probation officer.

According to court records, Etienne violated his probation three times in 15 days, all within a month of his conviction on charges of carrying a weapon in a motor vehicle and interfering with police. He was placed on probation at the time.

Gina Mital, Etiennes probation officer, wrote in an arrest warrant that Etienne left the state of Connecticut without permission on Nov. 11, 2019 and received a warning. On Nov. 22, 2019, Etienne tested positive for marijuana, a banned substance under his probation, Mital wrote. Four days after that, Etienne was arrested by Stamford police on misdemeanor charges, another violation of his probation.

Etiennes guilty plea to violation of probation comes about six months after he rejected a plea offer from the state in connection to a charge of attempted murder stemming from a November 2020 shooting in Stamfords West Side that left two men injured.

Etienne faces charges of attempted murder, criminal possession of a pistol, first-degree threatening and two counts of first-degree assault in connection to the shooting.

Last August, state prosecutors offered Etienne a deal where the 25-year-old would serve no more than 15 years in prison in return for guilty pleas to charges of criminal attempt at murder and two counts of first-degree assault.

Sgt. Sean Boeger wrote in an arrest affidavit that Etienne allegedly was trying to return a car he had recently purchased from one of the men injured in the shooting.

When the man refused to accept the returned car, Etienne allegedly told him, Im gonna pop you, according to the affidavit.

Later that day, according to the affidavit, the two men were driving down Fairfield Avenue in Stamford when a man they identified as Etienne got out of a car in front of them and began shooting. One man, 33, suffered gunshot wounds to the shoulder and hand, while the second man, 23, was grazed by a bullet on his forearm.

If convicted of attempted murder and two counts of first-degree assault with a deadly weapon, Etienne faces up to 40 years in prison.

His case is currently awaiting trial, though no official date has been set.

Etiennes attorney, Howard Ehring, said his client is next expected to appear in court on Sept. 21 for an update on the attempted murder case.
Former president Donald Trump routinely ripped up papers while in office - and upon leaving the White House, took at least 15 boxes of official records with him to Florida (including documents clearly marked as classified).

Now, as part of a federal investigation, the FBI conducted a court-approved search of Trump's residence at his Mar-a-Lago club on Monday.

It is not clear what prompted the search, though people familiar with the investigation said it was related to the possible mishandling of classified documents.

Any mishandling could be in violation of a law requiring Trump to preserve his records and phone calls of his official duties as president. If he were to be charged and found guilty of willfully hiding or destroying confidential and classified materials - a big if - some legal experts say he could be barred from being president again. Other experts disagree.

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What is the Presidential Records Act?

One law Trump could potentially be accused of breaking by taking or destroying official documents is called the Presidential Records Act.

Every president has violated the Presidential Records Act in some way, such as by using personal phones for texts or emails, for example, presidential historian Robert David Johnson said. But Trump might be the most egregious violator of the law in its 44 years of existence, Johnson said: "Since [Richard] Nixon, there is no example of a president just pretending the law doesn't exist."

Trump's actions have been on a whole other level. According to Post reporting, he tore up hundreds of documents - perhaps more - indiscriminately. His aides used burn bags to destroy documents rather than hand them over for preservation. The New York Times' Maggie Haberman reports he flushed documents down the toilet. There is a gap of more than seven hours on in his phone logs on one of the most crucial days of his presidency, the day of the Jan. 6 insurrection.

This is all after White House lawyers explicitly told Trump about the law requiring that he preserve documents.

One of the more charitable ways to look at his propensity for ripping up official documents is that it was a habit, almost like a nervous tic. But that doesn't explain why boxes of official records went with him to Mar-a-Lago rather than being handed over to the National Archives.

Trump previously issued several statements about these actions, denying there was any contention between him and the National Archives, which will work to help set up a presidential library for him.

On Monday, Trump said in a statement that the search was inappropriate because he had been "working and cooperating with the relevant government agencies" - on what, he didn't say.

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What we know about the Justice Department probe so far

Earlier this year, the National Archives recovered 15 boxes of White House records from Mar-a-Lago and saw that some of the documents were marked "classified." They asked the Justice Department to investigate, and in April, The Post reported that federal prosecutors were looking into it.

By May, the Justice Department began asking former White House aides about the boxes. They also convened a grand jury, a significant escalation in the investigation, and the grand jury issued a subpoena to learn more.

Then in August came the search at Mar-a-Lago by FBI agents. For the FBI to search someone's home - let alone a former president - requires the government to show an extraordinary amount of evidence that they have reason to believe a crime has potentially been committed. That evidence was presented to a federal judge, who signed off on a court order okaying the search.

To get such a high-profile search warrant, the FBI also likely conveyed a sense of urgency to the judge, said Jack Sharman, who served as special counsel to Congress during the Whitewater investigation.

According to Trump, the agents searched his safe, though he didn't say what for.

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Could Trump, or anyone, be charged with a crime?

Prosecutors could be probing whether the former president or his aides violated the Presidential Records Act, mishandled classified material or lied to investigators about whether they returned all the material to the archives when they were asked to do so.

To determine if Trump himself should be charged with a crime, prosecutors would need to assess his knowledge of and intent with taking the documents out of the White House, said Barbara McQuade, a former U.S. attorney. And prosecutors would want to know what, specifically, was in them.

"I am very curious as to what was in these documents and why he wanted them," she said. If they were top secret, their classification means that disclosure could be reasonably expected to cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security of the United States. "These are the types of documents that would make most of us quiver to hold," McQuade said, "let alone retain unlawfully."

The Presidential Records Act has really been more of a guideline for presidents, said James Grossman, executive director of the American Historical Association. "So if you have people in the White House who want to make things work, then they have guidelines to follow. I doubt it occurred to anybody when it was passed that it would need an enforcement mechanism." In other words, the law assumes presidents and their administrations will make a good-faith effort to comply. My Post colleagues report that a number of White House staffers did try; they would rush in and piece together Trump's ripped-up documents.

It's not clear what prosecutors would need to prove to find Trump - or anyone else - guilty of violating the Presidential Records Act or other laws regarding safe handling of classified and public information, say legal experts. That's in part because the Presidential Records Act has never had an enforcement mechanism; it's always been up to the White House to monitor itself.

Willfully trying to hide or destroy official documents is a separate federal crime. It's punishable by up to three years in jail - and by disqualification from holding public office. Violation of this statute requires a willful intent to take or hide or destroy the documents. Prosecutors would have to prove that Trump or those around him knew what they were doing was wrong, and that they did it anyway.

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If he's charged and found guilty, could Trump be barred from office?

Some legal experts think if Trump is found guilty of hiding classified material, he could be barred from running for president again. The relevant law regarding public documents says that a violator "shall forfeit his office and and be disqualified from holding any office under the United States."

"There could be constitutional challenges," said Jeffrey Jacobovitz, a prominent trial attorney in Washington, "but the statute seems to be clear on its face."

Marc Elias, a prominent Democratic lawyer, pointed to this statute when calling the search "a potential blockbuster in American politics" in a Twitter post on Monday night. He later followed up by saying there'd likely be "a constitutional challenge to the application of this law to a president."

That's because the Constitution sets the qualifications for president - and nowhere does it say that being convicted of a crime - including one involving public documents - would bar someone from holding office. "A statute cannot supersede that," said McQuade.

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How record-keeping is supposed to work

At the end of the president's administration, officials must hand over official documents - typically amounting to tens of thousands of pages - and tapes to the federal government. That can include national security briefs, handwritten notes, daily presidential logs and calendars, emails and faxes, and phone logs. The law also requires that presidents and their staffers take "every practical step" to preserve all this.

The archivists at the National Archives oversee this whole process.

In most White Houses, aides track where the president is and what he's doing at all times. On Jan. 6, 2021, the day of the Capitol riot, the White House Daily Diary mentions such details as: "11:08 a.m.: The president went to the Oval Office. 12:00 p.m.: The president made remarks at 'Save America Rally.' 1:19 p.m.: The President returned to the South Grounds of the White House and went to the Oval Office."

The National Archives culls the documents and decides which ones to preserve, which ones can become public, and which ones should be private or redacted, based on potential national security concerns or other reasons. A president can destroy a document only after receiving permission from archivists to do so.

The law also set up a system for people to appeal to the National Archives for a record that was redacted. Johnson says that he goes to battle with the National Archives regularly for documents, and that he often loses.

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Why the law is important

Every president since the 1930s has preserved a sizable chunk of their records, often to be displayed in their presidential libraries. But it wasn't until 1978, after Nixon tried to keep many of his documents private, that Congress passed a law codifying the practice that presidents must preserve all historically relevant material. Here's more on how the law came to be.

Without it, presidents themselves decided which records to share with the public. And, thus, they shaped history in the way they wanted it to be told. Nixon's library originally portrayed the Watergate scandal only as an attack on Nixon, rather than as an abuse of power. (The Nixon estate lost a 20-year litigation battle to keep the more damaging parts of Watergate out of his presidential library.)

"It's a better society when the public has access to documents that are produced on the public's behalf," Johnson, the historian, said. "So what both Nixon and Trump did, they are really striking at the heart of the definition of transparency."

The National Archives' Latin motto ( "Littera Scripta Manet") loosely translates to "The Written Word Endures." Its role is to help protect the nation's history by preserving access to government records, which then allows Americans to hold elected officials accountable for their past actions.

The law also facilitates presidential transitions, by letting the incoming administration read up on what the outgoing administration was doing.

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This has been updated with the latest news.
MANISTEE  A panel of Michigan family doctors is concerned about a resurgence of previously eradicated diseases such as measles and polio, because over the past few years vaccination rates for children in Michigan have dropped.

The panel of doctors spoke to members of the media from all across the state. It included Dr. Glenn Dregansky, president of the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians, Dr. Beena Nagappala, medical director of community health at Ascension Southeast Michigan, and Dr. Delicia Pruitt, medical director of the Saginaw County Health Department.

All three are family doctors and each has expressed concerns over a drop in vaccinations among young children, the politicization of vaccines and a growing distrust of medical institutions among the general public.

'We should be extremely concerned'

Dreganksy expressed concerns about the end of the herd immunity for diseases like measles, pertussis (also known as Whooping Cough) and even polio, because of recent trends toward parents not immunizing their children.

"Frankly, I don't think that we have herd immunity anymore because of this trend toward people not getting vaccinated," he said.

He noted that herd immunity requires around 80% to 85% of the population being vaccinated, depending on the disease. For diseases like measles, it's even higher at over 90% of the population, and Dregansky said the immunization rates are not at a level that is needed for herd immunity to be reached.

According to data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, statewide only 68.5% of children 19-35 months are fully covered for the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine as well as the polio vaccine. In Manistee County, 66% of children from 19-35 months have had the full regimen for vaccines against measles, mumps, rubella and polio.

Concerns about polio came up when a Detroit Free Press reporter asked a question about the polio virus being found in the wastewater in Rockland County in New York state earlier this month.

"... It frightens me  the trend toward not immunizing (against diseases)," Dregansky said. "We have lost our fear of these diseases. How concerned should we be about the New York (polio) case? We should be extremely concerned. We thought polio in this country was eradicated," he said.

He noted that the only places where it was active were in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and now it is in the United States.

Dregansky said that there have been measles outbreaks every year and that he has treated cases of pertussis in the southern part of the state.

Pruitt also expressed concern.

"There is a wave of anti-vaccination that's going through our country right now and if we don't take vaccination seriously, there can be a resurgence of illnesses that had once been squashed. People need to take this very seriously. The reason why we have these immunizations is because children died ... and we're trying to prevent death," she said.

She added that people need to consider that if people don't get vaccinated, children will get sick and there are tools available to protect people from serious illnesses.

Value of family doctors

At the same time, Dregansky and Nagappala noted that family doctors are in a unique position to build trust with parents and children.

The trust that is developed between patients over time can lead to people being vaccinated, but on a one-on-one basis. However, at an institutional level, it is difficult to combat the problems of politicization of vaccines, misinformation and another problem  that people have lost the fear of diseases like polio because they have been nearly eradicated and there have not been serious outbreaks.

"We're a victim of our own success," Dregansky said.

Dregansky said he was born in 1953 and is old enough to remember his parents being afraid to let him swim in the pool because of polio.

"I remember my grandmother crying when my brother and I were immunized against polio because she was so afraid of her grandsons becoming crippled like other children she had watched," he said.

He also noted there is no window or wait time for vaccinations.

"Because we don't fear these diseases, it's inevitable  if you don't history, it will repeat. And that's the phase we're in right now. So, there is no window. The window is now and if we don't get going on immunizations there will be outbreaks," Dregansky said.
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BEIJING (AP)  The top South Korean and Chinese diplomats pledged Tuesday to develop closer relations and maintain stable industrial supply chains at a time of deepening rivalry between Beijing and Washington.

South Korea, a longtime U.S. ally, is struggling to strike a balance between Washington and the increasingly assertive foreign policy of Chinese President Xi Jinpings government. U.S.-Chinese conflict over Taiwan has added to complications for governments that want amicable ties with both sides.

Foreign Ministers Park Jin and Wang Yi, in separate statements from their meeting in the eastern Chinese city of Qingdao, called for the development of relations based on three decades of successful commercial ties.

Parks ministry said the countries agreed to increase high-level communication over supply chain issues, climate change cooperation and facilitating cultural exchanges. It said the countries agreed to pursue two-plus-two talks by vice ministerial-level officials of foreign affairs and defense within this year.

Park and Wang gave no indication they discussed tensions over last weeks visit by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to self-ruled Taiwan, which the mainlands ruling Communist Party claims is Chinese territory. Beijing reacted to her visit by conducting military drills to intimidate the island and called off dialogue with Washington on climate change and other issues.

Pelosi visited South Korea last week, but South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was on vacation, talked to her by phone instead of face to face. His critics accused him of avoiding seeing her to protect relations with China.

Yoon, who took office in May, wants to strengthen security cooperation with Washington and Japan in response to North Korean nuclear threats. China, North Koreas main ally, sees Japan as a strategic rival but also is South Koreas biggest export market.

South Koreas pursuit of closer ties with Washington could possibly complicate relations with China. South Korea is weighing whether to participate in a U.S.-led semiconductor alliance involving Taiwan and Japan, which China sees as an economic threat.

Yoon's stated desire to install more U.S. anti-missile systems to cope with growing North Korean threats is also concerning for China, which insists such systems could be reconfigured to peep into its territory.

Chinas state-run Xinhua news agency said Wang and Park had an in-depth exchange of views over South Koreas deployment of the U.S. Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense system, or THAAD, and both expressed hope that the issue wouldnt become a stumbling block in relations.

Bilateral ties took a significant hit when South Korea installed its first THAAD battery in 2017 as Beijing retaliated by suspending Chinese group tours to South Korea and obliterating the China business of South Korean supermarket giant Lotte, which had provided land for the missile system. Yoon during his presidential campaign has called for additional deployment of THAAD to better protect capital Seoul from North Korean missile threats.

Park and Wang called for maintaining stable industry supply chains, a possible reference to fears that Chinese technology policy and U.S. security controls might split the world into separate markets with incompatible standards and products, slowing innovation and raising costs.

Park expressed hope the two sides will increase cooperation based on universal values and standards. He said they should overcome new challenges posed by a great transition in international society but gave no details.

Park appealed to Beijing to help persuade North Korea to return to talks on its nuclear weapons program, which he called an unprecedented threat to peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Park stressed that the U.N.-led international community should respond to major North Korean provocations with stern and unified measures and urged closer consultation between Seoul and Beijing over the Norths accelerating efforts to expand its arsenal, according to his ministry.

China and Russia recently vetoed U.S.-sponsored resolutions at the U.N. Security Council that would have increased sanctions on the North over some of its ballistic missile testing this year, underscoring division between the councils permanent members that deepened over Russias war on Ukraine.

Wangs statement didnt mention the nuclear issue and gave no indication whether he said what Beijing might do. The South Korean Foreign Ministry said Wang told Park that China will continue to make possible efforts for peace in the Korean Peninsula.

Park also expressed hope that Xi, the Chinese leader, would visit South Korea.
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BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP)  A crowd of dozens chanted on a sweltering street corner Tuesday as Ahmaud Arbery's hometown unveiled new street signs honoring the young Black man who was fatally shot after being chased by three white men in a nearby neighborhood  a crime local officials vowed to never forget.

Arbery's parents joined the celebration the day after the men responsible for their son's death received harsh prison sentences in U.S. District Court for committing federal hate crimes.

Officials in coastal Brunswick, where Arbery grew up, have ordered that intersections along all 2.7 miles (4.35 kilometers) of Albany Street that runs through the heart of the city's Black community will have additional signs designating it as Honorary Ahmaud Arbery Street.

The first two signs were unveiled Tuesday at an intersection near the Brunswick African-American Cultural Center, where one wall is adorned with a giant mural of Arbery's smiling face.

That's an honor, is all I can say, said Brenda Davis, a dock worker at Brunswick's busy seaport who lives on Albany Street along a stretch of modest brick and cinder block homes. He means something to everybody, though a lot of people didn't know him.

Arbery was killed Feb. 23, 2020, after he was spotting running in the Satilla Shores subdivision not far from his mother's house. A white father and son, Greg and Travis McMichael, grabbed guns and used a pickup truck to chase after Arbery, suspecting he was burglar. A neighbor, William Roddie Bryan, joined the pursuit in his own truck and recorded cellphone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery at close range with a shotgun.

No arrests were made for more than two months, until the graphic cellphone video leaked online and Georgia state investigators took over the case from local police. Arbery's death reverberated far beyond Brunswick as protests erupted across the U.S. over killings of unarmed Black people such as George Floyd in Minneapolis and Breonna Taylor in Kentucky.

More than two years of criminal proceedings against Arbery's killers concluded Monday as U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood sentenced the McMichaels to life and Bryan to 35 years in prison after their February convictions on federal hate crime charges. All three were already headed to state prison after being found guilty of Arbery's murder last November.

Brunswick weathered both criminal trials without violence as his family insisted any demands for justice be carried out peacefully.

City commissioners voted in December to place Arbery's name on a city street with a resolution proclaiming that he had become a symbol of strength and unity within our community.

We did this because we want to always remember what happened," Cornell Harvey, who served as Brunswick's mayor when the street designation was adopted, said Tuesday. You say, `Why would you want to remember such a tragedy?' Because sometimes it takes that to make a change. I am so sorry for the family ... but history has seized us."

The crowd chanted Long live Ahmaud Arbery! as his mother and father tugged on opposite ends of a blue covering to reveal the new street sign bearing their son's name underneath.

Wanda Cooper-Jones, Arbery's mother, said that although she still mourns his death, she also takes pride in what's been accomplished in its wake. Georgia adopted a hate crimes law imposing additional penalties for crimes motivated by a victims race, religion, sexual orientation or other factors. And state lawmakers gutted an 1863 state law authorizing private citizens to make arrests, which Arbery's pursuers had sought to use to justify the deadly chase.

I look at the change Ahmaud has brought since his passing, Cooper-Jones told the dozens gathered for the street dedication.

My only prayer is you guys will not forget his name," she said, breaking down in tears. "Please promise me you guys will always say his name.

For Arbery's family, the court battles aren't over. The McMichaels and Bryan have appealed their murder convictions, and almost surely will appeal the hate crimes verdicts as well.

Meanwhile, Jackie Johnson, the local district attorney at the time of the killing, has been indicted on state misconduct charges alleging she used her position to protect the McMichaels. Greg McMichael was a retired investigator who worked in Johnsons office, and prosecutors say they exchanged several phone calls in the weeks after the shooting. Johnson was voted out of office in the fall of 2020. She has denied wrongdoing.

Still, some in Brunswick are hoping for a respite now that sentences have been imposed in both cases against Arbery's killers.

There's a sigh of relief now that justice is served, said the Rev. Abra Lattany Reed, a Brunswick native and Methodist minister who attended the street sign dedication Tuesday.

She added: It would be a fair assessment to say we're tired of the spotlight. This isn't the kind of spotlight you want on your community.

___

This story has corrected the spelling of former Mayor Cornell Harvey's last name,
Toyota is helping victims of the catastrophic flooding in Eastern Kentucky. The historic flooding is to blame for at least 37 deaths according to news reports. Last week, the automaker announced $750,000 in donations to assist with immediate needs and long-term recovery efforts. Toyota also says its employees are holding donation drives to support immediate needs.

Toyota says the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky  Flood Relief Fund will receive $500,000 to help support families throughout eastern Kentucky struggling for access to shelter, food, water and other basic needs.

SBP, Toyota's longstanding disaster resilience, response and recovery partner, will receive $250,000 to help guide survivors as they navigate the federal funding application and appeals processes, share on-line recovery tools and work with high-risk communities on how to mitigate and prepare for future disasters.

"When disasters like this occur, it's important that we do everything possible to help ensure Kentuckians have the support and resources needed to recover and rebuild," said Tellis Bethel, group vice president, chief social innovation officer, Toyota Motor North America. "Our hearts go out to all of those impacted."

Matching Contributions

Toyota also says it's providing double-matching contributions for all donations made by U.S.-based employees to support The Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, SBP and The American Red Cross.

Additionally, Toyota says it will match all contributions made by its dealer partners as a part of the effort.

Customer Support

There is also help for Toyota and Lexus lease and finance customers through Toyota and Lexus Financial Services. Customers residing in the affected areas may be eligible to take advantage of several payment relief options, which include extensions and deferred payments, redirecting billing statements and arranging phone or online payments.

For questions, contact Toyota or Lexus financial services at the numbers below:

Toyota Financial Services customers: Call 800-874-8822 or contact TFS via email using the Mail Center function after logging into ToyotaFinancial.com .

Lexus Financial Services customers: Call 800-874-7050 or contact LFS via email using the Mail Center function after logging into LexusFinancial.com.

Photo Credit: Toyota

This article originally appeared on CarProUSA
ODESA, Ukraine  An explosion rocked a key Russian air base on the Kremlin-occupied Crimean Peninsula on Tuesday, sending up a huge plume of smoke, killing at least one person and sowing confusion over what exactly had happened.

A senior Ukrainian military official with knowledge of the situation said that Ukrainian forces were behind the attack. A spokesperson for the Kremlin-installed leader of Crimea confirmed that there had been an explosion but asked residents to refrain from jumping to conclusions about its cause.

Russias Defense Ministry said in a statement only that the explosion was caused by the detonation of aviation ordnance at the Saki air base. Local officials later said at least one person was killed and five were wounded.

Russian and occupation authorities did not speculate publicly about the possibility of a Ukrainian attack. The senior Ukrainian official, however, took credit for it.

This was an air base from which planes regularly took off for attacks against our forces in the southern theater, the official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive military matters. The official would not disclose the type of weapon used in the attack, saying only that a device exclusively of Ukrainian manufacture was used.

A Ukrainian attack on Russian forces in the Crimean Peninsula would represent a significant escalation in the war and an embarrassment for President Vladimir Putin of Russia, who often speaks of the territory, which he illegally annexed in 2014, as if it were hallowed ground. Ukraine possesses few weapons that can reach the peninsula, aside from aircraft that would risk being shot down immediately by Russias heavy air defenses in the region.

Last month, a small explosive device delivered by drone blew up at the headquarters of Russias Black Sea Fleet in the Crimean port of Sevastopol, injuring six but causing little damage. Russia blamed Ukrainian forces for the attack, but Ukrainian officials vociferously denied it.

Shortly after the explosion occurred Tuesday, the leader of Crimeas occupation government, Sergei Aksyonov, arrived at the scene. Standing in front of a large black plume of smoke, he said that a 3-mile perimeter had been erected around the site of the base to protect residents.

Among the local population, no one has sought medical attention, he said. Please, I asked you to believe only official information.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
MANISTEE  The year was 1952. The most popular song was "Blue Tango" by Leroy Anderson. It was also the year that Sam Miller joined the Manistee Lodge # 228 Free & Accepted Masons.

According to the Manistee Masonic Lodge's website, the lodge was chartered on Jan. 1, 1868, by the Grand Lodge of Michigan.

According to michiganmasons.org, "Masonry traces its ancestry back to the operative craftsmen, primarily cathedral builders, of the Middle Ages/"

Because of specialized knowledge and skills, builders were permitted special travel privileges from country to country. As cathedral building came to an end during the 17th and 18th centuries, some Masonic Lodges began to accept men into membership who were not craftsmen.

In addition the Michigan Masons website states that, "... Freemasons started some of the first public schools in both Europe and America. We supported legislation to make education universal. In the 1800s, Masons lobbied for the establishment of state-supported education and federal land-grant colleges. The first Masonic Lodge in Michigan was created more than 250 years ago in Detroit."

Milller was surrounded by friends, his wife Kay, and other members of the Manistee Masonic Lodge #228.

On Monday, Miller received his pin for 70 years belonging to the Free Masons. Miller received a pin and a plaque from the Most Worshipful Grand Master Leonard K. Davis, from the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Michigan  the state organization for Free Masons across the state.

Miller, who sat alongside his wife, Kay was also escorted by Senior Deacon Joel Robinson to a seat at the center of the room where Davis read a proclamation noting the importance of Miller's long membership with the Manistee Lodge #228 F. & A.M.

During the beginning of the proclamation, Davis remarked that "you just don't get many 70 year members" and that he was extremely honored to present Miller with the pin and plaque for his 70 year membership.

Miller spoke only briefly but reflected on the time he has spent.

"I'm most appreciative of all of you coming out to see me. Time moves fast when you think about it."
LOS ANGELES  Health officials recommend that anyone infected with the coronavirus isolate for at least five days. But for many, that timeline is becoming overly optimistic.

The isolation period, which the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shortened in December from 10 days to five, is more a starting point than a hard-and-fast rule in California. According to the state Department of Public Health, exiting isolation after five days requires a negative result from a rapid test on or after the fifth day following the onset of symptoms or first positive test  a step not included in federal guidelines.

But many people dont start testing negative that early.

If your test turns out to be positive after five days, dont be upset because the majority of people still test positive until at least Day 7, to Day 10 even, Dr. Clayton Chau, director of the Orange County Health Care Agency, said during a briefing Thursday. So thats the majority. Thats the norm.

But even typical, longer isolation periods carry very real effects, such as keeping people away from family and friends and out of work. While it may be disruptive, isolating is intended to stymie the spread of the coronavirus.

Dr. Robert Kosnik, director of UC San Franciscos occupational health program, said at a campus town hall in July that theres an expectation people will test negative on Day 5 and can return to work the next day.

Dont get your hopes up, Kosnik told his colleagues. Dont be disappointed if youre one of the group that continues to test positive.

In fact, some 60% to 70% of infected people still test positive on a rapid test five days after the onset of symptoms or their first positive test, meaning they should still stay in isolation, Kosnik said.

It doesnt significantly fall off until Day 8, he said.

A study published by the CDC in February found that 54% of patients had positive antigen tests between five and nine days after an initial diagnosis or the onset of symptoms, though the proportion of positive results declined over time.

People with symptomatic COVID-19 were more likely to continue testing positive five to nine days after symptoms first appeared. In the study, 64% of symptomatic patients still tested positive in this time frame.

However, the study noted, a positive antigen test result does not necessarily mean that a person is infectious. Similarly, a negative test result does not necessarily mean that a person is not infectious. Nonetheless, a positive or negative antigen test might be a useful proxy for the risk for being infectious.

The proportion of positive test results was lower after asymptomatic than symptomatic infection, researchers found.

In general, the study said, lower prevalence of positive test results over time and after asymptomatic infections might reflect lower infectiousness.

Heres a summary on guidance for isolation from the California Department of Public Health, which are also requirements in Los Angeles County.

Day 0: Start of COVID-19 symptoms or the day of your first positive coronavirus test, if youre asymptomatic. Wear a highly protective mask around others if in the same room as others in your home.

Days 1-5: Remain in isolation.

Day 5: You can take a rapid test. If you test negative, dont have a fever and your symptoms are improving, you can exit isolation on Day 6.

Days 6-10: You can end isolation if your rapid test result  taken on Day 5 or later  is negative, youve been fever-free for 24 hours without taking fever-reducing medicines and your symptoms are improving or you dont have symptoms. The California Department of Public Health strongly recommends still wearing a well-fitting mask around other people until the end of Day 10. In L.A. County, its a requirement that recently infected people who return to their workplace wear a mask through the end of Day 10.

Day 11: You can generally end isolation without needing a negative rapid test result. But if you still have a fever, stay isolated until 24 hours after the fever ends. And if you are immunocompromised or have had severe COVID-19, you might need to isolate longer.

If you do not have access to an antigen test, then we feel pretty comfortable that 10 days after your symptoms start, you are no longer infectious, Orange County Deputy Health Officer Dr. Matthew Zahn said.

Its worth noting that the isolation guidance from the state Department of Public Health is stricter than what is issued by the CDC. Federal guidance says people can end isolation  without a negative test result  on Day 6 as long as they are fever-free for 24 hours without using fever-reducing drugs and other symptoms have improved; however, they should wear a well-fitting mask around people through the end of Day 10.

But the CDC guidance has come under criticism from some experts who say its too lax.

Some people experience a recurrence of coronavirus-related symptoms or may start testing positive again. It can sometimes happen after taking Paxlovid, an anti-COVID oral medication that dramatically reduces the risk of hospitalization. But it also can happen without taking that medication.

The most recent notable example of Paxlovid rebound was President Joe Biden, who again tested positive for the coronavirus over the weekend, just days after exiting isolation.

Ive got no symptoms, but I am going to isolate for the safety of everyone around me, he wrote on Twitter after his latest positive test.

Though the rebound issue no longer appears to be as rare as once thought, officials note that Paxlovid remains highly effective.

Paxlovid still works. The goal of Paxlovid is to keep you from getting seriously ill and ending up in the hospital, Zahn said Thursday. People who take Paxlovid dont get as seriously ill and, if they have rebound symptoms, those rebound symptoms arent as severe.

If COVID-19 symptoms return, or rapid test results turn back positive after testing negative, the CDC recommends following isolation guidance again to reduce risk of coronavirus transmission to other people.
By Heather Allen

Bay City News Foundation

One of the first things you might notice about Manny Ortega is that he has a lot of tattoos. He got his first right out of elementary school. It said "Eastside," and it brought him a lot of trouble.

That tattoo got him in a gang-related fight that awarded him his first jail time: a week or a day at the Youth Authority Center -- the details are lost in the fog of memory. It wouldn't be his last time behind bars.

Today, though, many of Ortega's tattoos are monuments to a person who no longer exists. Since joining the San Jose Black Berets 12 years ago, he has given up running with gangs and living the "street life." Instead, he has dedicated his life to service to the community -- through his work with the Black Berets and as a peer support worker with the Santa Clara County Reentry Services.

"I'm only 12 years old to this world, this new life," Ortega said. "I'm learning like a 12-year-old. Every year, I learned something new about myself that I did not know that I had."

"I've accomplished a lot of trust within my own community. Because I'm a person of my word," Ortega said.

Ortega grew up in the neighborhood locals call Sal Si Puede, Spanish for "get out if you can," at the corner of 33rd Street and San Antonio Street in San Jose. He joined the street gangs because everyone he knew -- everyone who was a part of him -- grew up in that neighborhood and being in the gangs felt "comfortable."

"It was kind of like a no-brainer," Ortega said. "It was in our neighborhood. It was a big gang. There were a lot of people, and instead of getting beat up by them, we just joined them."

But Ortega doesn't live the gang life anymore. Far from it. He's been clean and sober for 12 years, and he helps others in his community now.

After spending a few decades oscillating in and out of prison, he realized when the police searched his house, holding his family at gunpoint while they tore things apart looking for drugs and guns, that something had to change.

"I looked at [my family] all facedown, and I thought, 'This is crazy,'" Ortega said. "In my head, I apologized for putting my family through this."

Ortega joined the San Jose Black Berets shortly after that incident, determined to put an end to his run-ins with the police and to give back to his community.

The Black Berets began in 1958 as a political movement to stand up to police brutality and other discrimination against Chicano and Indigenous people in San Jose. They even served as security for Cesar Chavez at one point.

The current generation of the Black Berets, of which Ortega is a part, is less politically radical and much more connected to its Indigenous roots.

Members don't consume drugs and alcohol. They hold ceremonies, do security for events and hold fundraisers year-round for their annual Youth Warriors Circle, a camp in Aptos that is free for families who participate. Youth who attend go to workshops, make crafts and go to sweat lodges to connect more deeply with Native American culture.

One of the goals of the Black Berets is to educate youth about their Indigenous heritage, to give them something greater than themselves and to keep them out of the gangs, according to Naiche Dominguez, who is an elder among the current Black Beret generation with Ortega.

According to Dominguez, the Black Berets had to regain the trust of the community to prove that the group had diverted from its radical origins to the family-oriented, community-minded organization it is now.

"It was hard for the community to accept us back, but we never gave up," Dominguez said. "We kept on going to the community to show them we're not like the old ones. We're not militant, we're family-oriented. We worry about our youth."

Ortega's story is similar to that of the Black Berets: He changed his ways so he could help his community.

"When he came out of prison, he went through a lot, and I think when he saw the Black Berets and what we stood for, that caught his eye and changed him," Dominguez said. "And look where he's at now."

Dominguez first met Ortega during a meeting at the Mexican American Community Services (MACSA) Center when an uncle brought Ortega to see about becoming a member of the Black Berets.

"He's been with me ever since," Dominguez said.

Ortega, who identifies himself as Western Apache, said he wouldn't be who he is today if it weren't for the Black Berets. It is so much a part of him, he has made it a family affair. His 12-year-old granddaughter is a member, and so is his wife, Felipa Pineda.

Pineda and Ortega met five years ago while the Black Berets were doing security at a Mochica New Year event where Pineda was dancing and Ortega was working. She joined the Black Berets, and she and Ortega began a relationship shortly thereafter. They have been married four years.

Pineda said that Ortega has always looked to see how he can help people because he's been in their position before and he wants them to succeed rather than fail.

"It's important that we help these people who are reentering society from prison get their community service hours," Ortega said before a Black Beret meeting. "We don't want them to get bounced back through the system because of a few hours they have to do, so we help them."

To do this, the Black Berets have community labor hours that provide assistance to complete basic home care projects -- like painting walls or repairing fences -- to anyone within the community who can provide the material to complete said project.

Those labor hours can be used by students who need to complete community service hours to graduate or by people who have been compelled to community service hours by the courts.

"It's a great resource not only for the people who want their lives changed, but also for the youth who want to see a difference. And for us, being the leaders that we are, they can see that within the movement," said Ortega, who bought machines to print T-shirts the organization sells all year to raise funds for its Youth Warriors Circle.

The Youth Warriors Circle has been open to girls and LGBTQIA youth in recent years, a departure from the tradition of inviting only boys to the camp.

Jose Morales, 16, is a Black Beret who will be coming to the Youth Warriors Circle for the second time this year. When Morales first went to the Warrior Circle, he was one of several LGBTQIA, or two-spirited, youth who were in attendance, and Ortega made him feel welcome by asking him to tell him his pronouns.

"Those little questions mean so much to me because that showed that he was aware and he would do anything in his power to keep me safe because this is a welcoming community," Morales said.

Morales, whose godmother is Pineda, said that Ortega is still helping him today by giving him little lectures on the ways of life or helping him to make traditional Native art, which Morales calls medicine, that he can bring with him into uncertain times and ceremonies.

Considering Ortega's past, which he freely shares at the Youth Warriors Circle, Morales said Ortega is a success story because he had turned his life around.

"That's why I will always see a warrior in him. Because it's hard now in society to change like that," Morales said.

Many Black Berets agree that Ortega is a protector, a voice for people who cannot speak for themselves.

When Pineda's daughter, who was in a wheelchair at the time, was killed in a hit-and-run while she was crossing the intersection of Curtner Avenue and Monterey Road in San Jose, it was Ortega who spoke on Pineda's behalf to the San Jose City Council about the need for more safety measures in that intersection.

He and two other Black Berets members asked the Council to install more cameras so hit-and-run drivers might be caught.

"I just want to see [the pilot program] pass to give people a chance to have closure for their daughter or son or mother," Ortega said to the City Council, speaking behind a black face mask with a red hand printed across the mouth.

Ortega is always the one to call in a conflict, Pineda said. "He knows how to talk to people who are irate or just off the wall," she said. "He can calm them down and come up with a solution and 99.9% of the time, the conflict dissipates."

Pineda said that Ortega's dedication is his greatest strength.

Whether it is his exercise routine -- he and Pineda get up at 3:15 a.m. Monday through Friday to work out at the gym -- or his work as a Black Beret and at the Santa Clara County Reentry Services office, Ortega gives of himself freely.

This April, Ortega was awarded a Peer to Mentor Award in recognition of his guidance and commitment to changing lives from the County of Santa Clara Reentry Resource Center at the center's 10th anniversary celebration.

"He was shocked to receive the award," Pineda said, but it was well-deserved. "He's been there for 10 years, and he really does a lot of work for everybody. He goes above and beyond what he is supposed to do."

Copyright  2022 Bay City News, Inc. All rights reserved. Republication, rebroadcast or redistribution without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Bay City News is a 24/7 news service covering the greater Bay Area.

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Criminal Case Disposition Report

July 2022

Avery Jay Alvarez: Prohibited substance in a correctional facility, alcohol/drugs/phone/tobacco  convicted; confinement  4 years  Texas Department of Corrections

Gavin Craig Hernandez: Abandon or endanger a child, criminal negligence  convicted; confinement  20 months  State Jail, CSCD and Community Control  5 years

Julian Torres Guerra: Possession of a controlled substance, penalty group 1, at least 1 gram, less than 4 grams  dismissed; in the interest of justice

Sean Richard Neal: Possession of a controlled substance, penalty group 3, at least 28 grams, less than 200 grams  convicted; confinement  3 years  Texas Department of Corrections

Patrick Louis Morales: Unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon  dismissed; insufficient evidence

Kevin Dewayne Garza: Aggravated robbery  dismissed

Jennifer Diane Wade: Unauthorized use of a vehicle  convicted; confinement  2 years  Texas Department of Corrections
There is little sympathy for a rat.

On July 25, a giant inflatable rat rose 15 feet in front of Staab Funeral Home in Springfield and a woman came out of the business and repeatedly stabbed the rodent with a knife.

The rat is intended to call public attention to companies employing non-union labor.

John Nicks, business manager for Roofers Local 112, said he and two of his union brothers  and Scabby the rat  were well within their rights protesting outside the venerable Springfield business that employed a non-union roofing contractor.

I cant argue with that.

The First Amendment exists to protect even the most offensive speech. In fact, if someone didnt find it offensive, there would be no need to protect it.

But as my mother used to say, Just because you can do something doesnt mean you should do something.

And this job action was stupid  really stupid.

Nicks portrays himself as just a working stiff, protesting outside a funeral parlor. But even he wasnt prepared for how heated things became.

She came out running, hollering and screaming and had a knife that was maybe 4, 6 or 7 inches long. I dont know what she was screaming, but she was screaming, and then she stabbed the rat eight times  in the back, he told me in a recent interview.

One of the picketers called the cops and the woman returned to the business.

The 911 call went like this: Were union workers and we are kinda protesting here because there is non-union here. And a lady came out of Staabs and poked a hole in one of our rat things or whatever. They are getting kinda nasty and we have all the right to be here.

He added the perpetrator was wearing a leopard top.

Meow. You just cant make this stuff up.

A police report said funeral director Lauren Staab, daughter of the firms president, Paul John Staab, admitted to the attack. Neither of the Staabs would comment on the matter for the record. She has been charged with criminal damage to property.

When I wrote a news story on the incident, I received emails and comments from across the United States. The victim  Scabby, the now-flaccid rat  received no sympathy.

Lauren Staab, on the other hand, may be on the way to folk-hero status.

I should note that the Staabs buried several of my in-laws. And Ive attended a number of funerals there and always found them to be dignified and professional.

They are just nice folks.

Inflating a giant rat outside a family business is a bullying tactic. A legal bullying tactic, but a bullying tactic nonetheless.

I can empathize.

When I was 10, my familys small business was picketed by a union. Wed hired union carpenters to put on an addition. It seems the carpenters were carrying their own boards. So, the laborers union picketed because they thought they should be carrying them.

Being a rather nosey child, I walked out front and asked the fellow picketing why he was there. He said, Unfair labor practices, kid.

I asked what was unfair? The fella wouldnt make eye contact but did tell me to call the union hall. I couldnt help but wonder if he knew why he was picketing.

After all, orthodoxies demand blind obedience. Instead of taking a nuanced view and noting that the Staabs have employed union contractors in the past and have contributed much to the community, the roofers' union chose to brand them as shameful and target them for a picket.

What do they hope to accomplish? Maybe someone will drive down the road, see the picketers and say, Mom, when you kick the bucket, we wont have your funeral at that place with the giant rat.

I suppose it could happen. But I kind of doubt it.

A more likely scenario is that the union will reap nothing but ill will. Instead of the champion of working people, it came off as a bully picking on a family business.

Increasingly, rank-and-file union workers are uncomfortable with these actions. They may not be voicing their misgivings in the union hall, but they are voting with their feet.

Unions are finding it hard to get workers to participate in job actions like the one with Scabby. Thestreet.com has reported some labor organizations have resorted to hiring non-union temporary workers at minimum wage to man their picket lines.

John Nicks, of the roofers' union, acknowledged that some unions play that game, but not his.

All the same, whenever I see folks suffering out in the weather on a picket line, I cant help but wonder: Are those temps? And is the union paying them prevailing wage?
House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy was blasted by other members of California's congressional delegation for the statement he released Monday following reports that former President Donald Trump's Florida estate was raided by the FBI earlier that afternoon.

In his statement, McCarthy ordered U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland to "preserve" documents and "clear" his calendar in preparation for an investigation Republicans will conduct into the U.S. Department of Justice should they retake the House during this year's midterm elections.

"I've seen enough. The Department of Justice has reached an intolerable state of weaponized politicization," McCarthy said. "When Republicans take back the House, we will conduct immediate oversight of this department, follow the facts, and leave no stone unturned."

Other lawmakers representing California were quick to hit back.

Democratic Rep. Ted Lieu (District 33) focused his critique on the fact that nobody  McCarthy included  knows what federal agents seized during their raid of Mar-a-Lago. The general consensus among political analysts (and one supported by unnamed sources in some reports) is that the raid was part of an already public investigation into whether documents, some of them top-secret, were taken to the Florida estate instead of being sent to the National Archives when Trump left office.

"You say youve 'seen enough.' Did you see the classified and unclassified documents that the FBI seized at Mar-a-Lago? No. So you have no idea what you are talking about," Lieu said to McCarthy on Twitter. "Stop making stuff up. You are the leader of the minority party. Do better."

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell (District 15) said that the raid was signed off on by a federal judge in Florida, and, like Lieu, emphasized that it's still unclear what was taken by federal agents during the raid.

"Its outrageous to threaten the Attorney Generalespecially about a criminal affidavit (signed by a judge) you have not seen and evidence (seized by law enforcement) you dont know," Swalwell said, also on Twitter. "This behavior is why you will never be Speaker."

Although the GOP's acquiescence to Trump is nothing new, it was notable just how strongly McCarthy and other top figures in the party responded to the FBI's actions.

Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, New York Rep. Elise Stefanik (the third-ranking Republican in the House) and Florida Sen. Rick Scott (the head of the National Republican Senatorial Committee) each strongly condemned the raid, with Greene going so far as to say the FBI should be defunded.
With the pandemic temporarily shutting down bars and nightclubs in many states, staying in has officially replaced going out. But the party doesnt have to end just because you're not imbibing at your favorite watering hole. You can easily curate a bar space at home to enjoy a homemade version of your go-to cocktail.

"Ive had clients skeptical about installing wet bars who are now using them all the time, says Nina Magon of Houston-based firm Contour Interior Design. A designated bar space will help make cocktail hour feel all the more special.

Whether you're looking to go small scale with a stylishly stocked bar cart or are ready to transform an unused nook into a proper wet bar, our experts have a few tips to lift your spirits. Here's what you need to know to get your at-home bar ready for business.

1. Go for moody colors and accessories

Photo by Erin Melkonian Designs

Want to channel that dark, mysterious old-school cocktail bar vibe?

Using moody, masculine colors and a bronzed mirror brings to mind the feeling of a classic cocktail bar, says Magon.

If you're decking out a nook or corner of a room, try using a dark paint color or textured wallpaper to separate the area from the rest of the room.

To get a real bar feel, consider adding a wood and mirror backbar that has a shelf, stemware holder, and mounting hardware, like the Seville backbar mirror ($400, Home Depot).

2. Select sophisticated seating

No bar would be complete without bar stools, and using them in your home can really set the tone.

Recently Ive really been re-creating a lounge-style atmosphere for clients. This includes a traditional bar top with bar stools, says Magon.

Magon recommends the Erik Buch teak and black leather bar stools ($4,550 per set, 1stDibs.com). A more budget-friendly option would be a backless bar stool like the Julien bar and counter stool ($99.50 to $129.00, Grandinroad.com).

3. Have bar cart, will travel

Photo by Erin King Interiors

A bar cart is great for its versatility, convenience, and style, especially when square footageand budgetis limited.

"A good bar cart can pivot and serve another purpose. Think side table by day and drink service by night," says Anthony Gianacakos of New York Citybased firm Anthony George Home.

He says the Crestwood bar cart ($1,470, Arteriors) with its pared-back form and antique brass finish can work with a number of design aesthetics, and the clever design of the bottom rack keeps bottles upright. Also, consider a metal, wood, and leather bar cart ($150, Target).

If you're looking for more of a cabinet design, consider a midcentury bar cabinet ($799, West Elm) or the Cambridge mahogany bar ($462, Home Depot).

4. Bar none for accessories

Geometric wine rack Crate & Barrel

Becoming a master mixologist means you need the right tools and accessories.

"Regardless of your bar's scale, accessories are everything, says Gianacakos.

He says a set of Frances decanters ($390, Arteriors) has organic asymmetry that can very easily dress up or down your space, and work well for bar enthusiasts who like to infuse their own spirits."

Consider the bar tool set ($90, Crate & Barrel) and the 11-bottle wine rack ($46, Crate & Barrel) that both come in gold, copper, graphite, or silver. And what would a bar be without a cocktail shaker? Try the Usagi cobbler shaker ($42, Amazon).

5. The bar is always open

Wet bar sink Kohler

Where to put a wet bar in your home comes down to personal taste and convenience.

Kim Lewis, an interior designer from Austin, TX, says homeowners should consider the space in their home where theyd like to wind down at the day's end, such as an upstairs porch or a cozy living room near the TV.

Ive also integrated a home bar in the primary suite for a jump-start on coffee in the morning, says Lewis.

Designing a wet bar gives homeowners an opportunity to experiment with different styles of fixtures and finishes in their home. For example, try a lounge-approved statement faucet like the Artifacts gentlemans bar sink faucet ($776, Kohler.com) and the Brinx top-mount bar sink ($1,332, Kohler.com).

6. Up your cocktail game outdoors

Outdoor bar Pottery Barn

If you have the space, the ultimate home bar experience can also be taken outside.

Daniel Germani, an architect and designer based in Phoenix, says the new normal of 2020 completely transformed how people entertain at home, causing demand for outdoor living spaces to skyrocket.

I love integrating a bar into the outdoor experience. It satisfies that craving we all have these days to get out of the house, says Germani.

Germani designed the Elements Collection for Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens that offers smart storage solutions to accommodate outdoor wine fridges and Kegerators.

The bold pops of color also bring instant happiness to the space, which we all need right now, he says.

For your outdoor bar, consider the Hallsville three-piece bar set ($355, Wayfair) or the Chatham FSC mahogany ultimate bar ($2,499, Pottery Barn), or the acacia island and hutch ($2,248, Pottery Barn).

The post 6 Designer Tips for Creating the Ultimate at-Home Bar appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com.
LATEST Aug. 12, 8 a.m. The Placer County Sheriff's Office has shared several new photos in the case of missing teen Kiely Rodni.

Aug. 9, 8:30 a.m. The frantic search for Kiely Rodni continues in the Tahoe area Tuesday after the 16-year-old seemingly vanished into thin air after attending a party over the weekend.

Kiely was last seen around 1:30 a.m. on August 6 near the Prosser Family Campground about 10 minutes north of Truckee. According to the Placer County Sheriff's Office, she was attending a party "of more than 100 juveniles and young adults." Her vehicle, a silver 2013 Honda CRV, is also missing, and her phone has been out of service since she disappeared.

The sheriff's office and FBI are treating the case as a possible abduction because Kiely's vehicle is still missing. On Monday, search-and-rescue teams fanned out across the area looking for any sign of Kiely. A helicopter was also deployed for aerial sweeps along the I-80 corridor between Donner Summit and the Nevada border.

"Despite the numerous resources we have utilized, Kiely and her vehicle are still missing," the sheriff's office said in a statement Monday afternoon. "We are currently coordinating with the California Highway Patrol, Truckee Police, FBI, and the Nevada County Sheriffs Office as we continue our search for Kiely."

There are a flurry of online rumors but scant real clues in the case. Friends say Kiely intended to stay at the campground overnight, but they lost track of her in the large party. At least one witness says Kiely was too intoxicated to drive.

Placer County Sheriff's Office/Handout

"I know that she wasn't in the right mindset or state to drive. And if she were to have driven, she wouldn't have made it far," a friend told CBS News. "So my concern is that somebody might have offered to drive her home and then didn't take her home."

Detectives say they've had difficulty getting witness statements due to the age of party-goers and the underage drinking that occurred at the gathering.

"If you are a parent of a child that attended this party or attended yourself, please look at yours or your child's photos/videos/social media for any images of Kiely potential persons of interest in the background," states a website run by Kiely's loved ones. "Someone out of place, someone no one really knows. We are still piecing together a useable timeline; who she may have been with, when she may have left."

Volunteers will be meeting at the Truckee community rec center this morning to conduct more searches. At 5 p.m. tonight, friends are hosting a "teen to teen" meetup at the Tahoe City Save Mart parking lot to encourage young witnesses to come forward without adults or law enforcement present.

Kiely is 5-foot-7 and 115 pounds and has blonde hair, hazel eyes and a nose ring. She has multiple piercings and a tattoo of the number 17 on her ribs. Witnesses say she was wearing a black tank top and green Dickies pants at the party. Her silver Honda CRV has the California license plate 8YUR127. Kiely's family runs the Lost Trail Lodge in Truckee, about a 12-mile drive from the Prosser campground.

"We just want her home. We're so scared and we miss her so much and we love her so much," Kiely's mother Lindsey Rodni-Nieman said Monday. "Kiely, we love you, and if you see this, please just come home. I want nothing more than to hug you."

Anyone with information regarding Kiely's disappearance is asked to immediately contact the Placer County Sheriff's Office tip line at 530-581-6320, option 7. Callers may remain anonymous.
WFO PHOENIX Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Southwestern Imperial County in southeastern California...

* Until 645 PM PDT.

* At 556 PM PDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Ocotillo, and

is nearly stationary.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and outbuildings. Very

hazardous travel conditions for motorists.

* Locations impacted include...

Plaster City, Ocotillo, Fish Creek Wash and Coyote Wells.

This includes the following highways...

CA Interstate 8 near mile marker 1, and between mile markers 3 and

22.

CA Route 98 between mile markers 1 and 14.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Dense blowing dust and sand along with frequent cloud to ground

can also be expected.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO PHOENIX Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Southwestern Imperial County in southeastern California...

* Until 1015 PM PDT.

* At 608 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain

have fallen. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin

shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Ocotillo, Plaster City, Mountain Spring, Coyote Wells, and Carrizo

Wash.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO PHOENIX Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

DUST STORM WARNING

BULLETIN - EAS ACTIVATION REQUESTED

Dust Storm Warning

National Weather Service Phoenix AZ

623 PM PDT Mon Aug 8 2022

The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a

* Dust Storm Warning for...

Southwestern Imperial County in southeastern California...

* Until 730 PM PDT.

* At 622 PM PDT, a wall of dust was along a line extending from near

Ocotillo Wells to 7 miles southwest of Westmorland to near

Calexico, moving northeast at 10 mph.

HAZARD...Less than a quarter mile visibility with strong wind in

excess of 40 mph.

SOURCE...Doppler radar.

IMPACT...Dangerous life-threatening travel.

* This includes the following highways...

CA Interstate 8 near mile marker 1, and between mile markers 3 and

50.

CA Route 78 between mile markers 1 and 20.

CA Route 111 between mile markers 1 and 29.

Locations impacted include...

El Centro, Calexico, Brawley, Imperial, Plaster City, Salton City,

Ocotillo, Holtville, Westmorland, Mt. Signal, El Centro Naval

Airfield, Ocotillo Wells, Fish Creek Wash, Coyote Wells and Alamorio.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Motorists should not drive into a dust storm. PULL ASIDE STAY ALIVE!

There is no safe place on a highway when a dust storm hits.

Visibility can be lost immediately, making it difficult or impossible

to slow down and avoid stopped vehicles. Delay travel, or safely exit

the highway before the dust storm arrives.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO PHOENIX Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Southwestern Imperial County in southeastern California...

* Until 1115 PM PDT.

* At 712 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1 and 3 inches of rain

have fallen. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin

shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of normally dry

washes, urban areas, highways, streets and

underpasses.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

El Centro, Brawley, Imperial, Plaster City, Ocotillo,

Westmorland, Mountain Spring, Seeley, Coyote Wells, and Heber.

This includes the following streams and drainages...

Carrizo Wash, Boulder Creek, Alamo River, Tarantula Wash, Fish

Creek Wash, New River, Myer Creek, Palm Canyon Wash, Gert Wash,

Salt Creek Slough and San Felipe Creek.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO RENO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service RENO NV

427 PM PDT Mon Aug 8 2022

...SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS TO CONTINUE THROUGH THE EVENING...

Showers and thunderstorms are continuing to propagate from the south

to north this evening bringing localized heavy rainfall, frequent

lightning, and gusty outflow winds in excess of 40 mph.

These winds are may bring blowing dust across the west central

Nevada Basin and Range in addition to downwind of the Honey Lake

Basin. We have already seen a report from Fallon NAS of 4 mile

visibility in blowing dust.

While storms are moving faster than in recent days, renewed flash

flood threats are present due to the heavy rainfall. Those living

in flood prone areas or near recent burn scars should continue to

monitor and be prepared to take action should heavy rains or a

flash flood warning be issued.

The National Weather Service in San Diego has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Southeastern San Diego County in southwestern California...

* Until 730 PM PDT.

* At 431 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or

expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

I-8 Between Pine Valley And Boulevard, I-8 Between Boulevard And

Imperial County Line, Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Pine Valley,

Boulevard, Lake Morena, Campo, Hwy S2 Between Agua Caliente And

Canebrake, Hwy S2 Between Canebrake And Imperial County Line, Hwy

S2 Between Shelter Valley And Agua Caliente, Hwy S1 Between Lake

Cuyamaca And Mount Laguna, Hwy S2, Potrero, Descanso, Manzanita

Indian Reservation, La Posta Indian Reservation and Live Oak

Springs.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

In hilly terrain there are hundreds of low water crossings which are

potentially dangerous in heavy rain. Do not attempt to cross flooded

roads. Find an alternate route.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO BOSTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, August 9, 2022

_____

HEAT ADVISORY

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE

National Weather Service Boston/Norton MA

300 AM EDT Tue Aug 9 2022

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Heat index values up to 104.

* WHERE...Portions of northern Connecticut, central, eastern,

northeastern, southeastern and western Massachusetts and

northern and southern Rhode Island.

* WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT this evening.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat

illnesses to occur.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out

of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young

children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles

under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When

possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or

evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat

stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when

possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational

Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent

rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone

overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO BINGHAMTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, August 9, 2022

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Binghamton NY

1229 PM EDT Tue Aug 9 2022

...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of southern Sullivan,

southern Lackawanna, southern Wayne, northeastern Luzerne and Pike

Counties through 115 PM EDT...

At 1228 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms

along a line extending from Scranton to Honesdale. Movement was east

at 20 mph.

HAZARD...Wind gusts 30 to 40 mph. Brief heavy downpours.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects.

Locations impacted include...

Scranton, Dunmore, Monticello, Moosic, Olyphant, Lackawaxen, Duryea,

Blooming Grove, Jessup and Honesdale.

This includes the following highway exits...

Interstate 86/Route 17 between 104 and 109.

Pennsylvania Interstate 81 between 175A and B and 186.

Interstate 84 between 1 and 34.

Interstate 380 between 13 and 24.

Interstate 476 near 115.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

These storms may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio

stations and available television stations for additional information

and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

LAT...LON 4149 7472 4149 7476 4145 7476 4131 7490

4121 7514 4125 7513 4122 7554 4112 7564

4133 7578 4167 7512 4167 7454

TIME...MOT...LOC 1628Z 284DEG 17KT 4134 7572 4146 7542 4158 7523

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.00 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO BUFFALO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Northwestern Wyoming County in western New York...

Northeastern Erie County in western New York...

Western Genesee County in western New York...

* Until 815 PM EDT.

* At 725 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 8 miles west of

Erie Basin Marina, or 10 miles west of Buffalo, moving east at 45

mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Expect damage to trees and power lines.

* Locations impacted include...

Buffalo, Cheektowaga, West Seneca, Clarence, Lackawanna, Kenmore,

Depew, Tonawanda, Amherst and Lancaster.

This includes Interstate 90 between exits 48A and 56.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO BURLINGTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

HEAT ADVISORY

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE

National Weather Service Burlington VT

802 PM EDT Mon Aug 8 2022

...HEAT ADVISORY WILL EXPIRE AT 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

Temperatures will drop overnight as a cold front continues to

slowly push southward. Cooler temperatures are expected for

Tuesday with highs in the mid 60s to mid 70s.

...Strong thunderstorms will impact portions of western Cattaraugus,

southwestern Erie and Chautauqua Counties through 845 PM EDT...

At 801 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking strong thunderstorms along

a line extending from 7 miles northeast of North East to Wattsburg.

Movement was east at 40 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects.

Locations impacted include...

Jamestown, Dunkirk, Fredonia, Allegany State Park, Evans, Eden,

Westfield, Lakewood, Gowanda, Silver Creek, Falconer, Angola,

Mayville, Clymer, North Collins, Long Point State Park, Jamestown

West, SUNY Fredonia, Frewsburg and North Boston.

This includes the following highways...

Interstate 90 between exits 57A and 61.

Interstate 86 between exits 4 and 16.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

Heavy0 rainfall is also occurring with these storms and may lead to

localized flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded

roadways.

Cloud to ground lightning is occurring with these storms.

Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe

shelter inside a building or vehicle.

LAT...LON 4244 7950 4249 7945 4254 7937 4259 7919

4265 7914 4270 7873 4200 7893 4200 7976

4227 7976 4228 7973 4231 7977

TIME...MOT...LOC 0001Z 253DEG 35KT 4229 7973 4199 7981

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.00 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Western Cattaraugus County in western New York...

Southwestern Erie County in western New York...

Chautauqua County in western New York...

* Until 900 PM EDT.

* At 806 PM EDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line

extending from Westfield to near Clymer, moving east at 40 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Expect damage to trees and power lines.

* Locations impacted include...

Jamestown, Dunkirk, Fredonia, Salamanca, Allegany State Park,

Springville, Westfield, Lakewood, Gowanda and Falconer.

Interstate 90 between exits 59 and 61.

Interstate 86 between exits 4 and 21.

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

Torrential rainfall is occurring with these storms, and may lead to

flash flooding. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO NEW YORK CITY Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, August 9, 2022

_____

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WARNING

The National Weather Service in Upton NY has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...

Central Suffolk County in southeastern New York...

* Until 445 PM EDT.

* At 354 PM EDT, severe thunderstorms were located along a line

extending from 8 miles north of Rocky Point to Farmingville, moving

east at 30 mph.

HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Minor hail damage to vehicles is possible. Expect wind

damage to trees and power lines.

* Locations impacted include...

Riverhead, Centereach, Manorville, Stony Brook, Middle Island, Port

Jefferson, Wading River, Mattituck, Coram, Smithtown, Rocky Point,

Mount Sinai, Calverton, Brookhaven National Laboratory and Selden.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a

building.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, August 9, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Southeastern Hempstead County in southwestern Arkansas...

North Central Lafayette County in southwestern Arkansas...

Southeastern Little River County in southwestern Arkansas...

Northern Miller County in southwestern Arkansas...

Southeastern Bowie County in northeastern Texas...

* Until 300 PM CDT.

* At 1157 AM CDT, Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated

thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between

2 and 4 inches of rain have fallen, especially across the city of

Texarkana. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are

possible in the warned area over the next few hours. Flash

flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

HAZARD...Life threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar and automated gauges.

IMPACT...Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams,

urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Texarkana, Hope, Wake Village, New Boston, Stamps, Lewisville,

Nash, Hooks, Redwater, Maud, Red Lick, Garland, Fulton, Genoa,

Mandeville, Leary, Mount Pleasant, Patmos and Homan.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law

enforcement and request they pass this information to the National

Weather Service when you can do so safely.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
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Celebrities, musicians, politicians and the public are paying tribute to Olivia Newton-John, who died at 73 on Tuesday morning.

The Australian film and musical giant is being remembered as a great Australian woman who made significant contributions to music, culture and cancer research.

Fans leaving flowers on Olivia Newton-Johns Hollywood Walk of Fame star. Credit:Getty

Grease co-star John Travolta was among the first to react to the news, sharing a touching post on his Instagram account early this morning. The Saturday Night Fever star described the impact of Newton-Johns legacy as incredible.

My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible, he wrote.
If I had to choose just one song to remember Olivia Newton-John, it would be Banks of the Ohio. Fifty-odd years after it was released, with that magic that only pop songs are possessed of, its a failsafe portal to the blissful brown corduroy sunshine of the early 1970s, the push-button AM radio soundtrack to Sunday drives and family picnics.

Olivia was just a girl; not much older than us. You could hear that in her voice. Out of her depth, not ready for love. She held a knife, he lunged into her arms. Not her fault, really. The booming bass counterpoint seemed to understand. The apple-pie country chorus sighed.

Country music was a big part of AM radios Top 40 fabric in those precious days. Olivia found her niche in it with spectacular success. Her other hit that year was If Not For You, a song written by Bob Dylan and recorded by George Harrison, though neither of their versions felt as true as hers. As if the sky would ever fall on those guys.

The mildly twangsome songs of romantic bliss and heartbreak kept coming, despite the brewing storm of discontent in Nashville, where an English-Australian gal scooping Academy of Country Music honours was seen as sacrilege. Despite my hardening teenaged exterior, they still made me swoon. Breathless flirting tunes like Let Me Be There, If You Love Me, Let Me Know and Have You Never Been Mellow interleaved with jukebox tearjerkers like I Honestly Love You and  oh my heart  Please Mr. Please. Dont play B-17! It was their song, it was his song, but its over.
Olivia Newton-Johns place in fashion history is assured by the most memorable makeover in cinema. Opposite John Travolta in the 1979 movie Grease, Newton-Johns transformation as Sandy from good girl to bad in the musicals final moments, taught generations that a black leather jacket, pants so tight that you need to be stitched into them and a spiral perm are enough to win any mans heart.

The iconic look was revived by Australian label sass & bides Rats leggings, a noughties style staple, and in French designer Jean Paul Gaultiers spring 2014 ready-to-wear show with supermodel Coco Rocha embodying Sandys sassy evolution.

A promotional still of Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta in the 1978 film Grease and models in the Jean Paul Gaultier spring 2014 runway show in Paris, September 28, 2013. Credit:Getty

Equally, influential was the late singer and actors 50s-inspired garb in Grease, with Newton-John playing a teenager at 28 in full skirts, varsity jackets and with her glossy hair worn in a swinging high ponytail.

Rather than pushing or shaping trends like her pop peers Cher and Madonna, Newton-John safely embodied the looks of the moment through the girl-next-door filter that stayed with her into her seventies.
A Queensland family reported missing on a drive through far western NSW has been found safe and well after an extensive search.

The four people, 27-year-old Darian Aspinall and her children Winter, 2, and Koda, 4, and their grandmother, Leah Gooding, 50, were reported missing on Monday when they did not arrive at Packsaddle in NSW, after travelling from Queensland the previous day.

A land search was conducted across NSW regions of Tibooburra, Broken Hill, Wilcannia and Packsaddle, with help from Queensland and South Australia police.

A rescue helicopter found the familys car off-track, about 50 kilometres south-east of Tibooburra about 4.15pm on Tuesday.
Australian survival rates from breast cancer have improved in leaps and bounds since Olivia Newton-John was first diagnosed in 1992. More than 90 per cent of patients live past five years. However, there is one significant exception.

People with metastatic breast cancer, which Newton-John had lived with since 2017, can be treated but rarely cured. Sometimes those with the condition are left feeling out of place and unsupported.

Dr Andrea Smith is still working full time, despite being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Credit:Kate Geraghty

People think that breast cancer is very survivable, which it is in some ways, but the reality is more than 3000 people die from breast cancer every year in Australia, says Dr Andrea Smith, an academic with the University of Sydney. A mother of three, she was diagnosed with stage four metastatic breast cancer six years ago.

All of those people are dying from metastatic breast cancer, she said.
A group of Moreland residents is fighting the move to change the municipalitys name to remove a connection to slavery, arguing the decision was presented as a fait accompli and the community was not consulted.

A petition signed by more than 1400 people will be tabled at Moreland Councils meeting on Wednesday night, demanding it revisit the consultation process for renaming the municipality. Residents will also meet with Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne to lobby for a reversal of the decision based on what they say was a lack of consultation.

Moreland residents Peta Slattery with son Levi, and fellow resident Ray Pastoors are among more than 1400 people unhappy with the council renaming process. Credit:Luis Enrique Ascui

Moreland City Council last month voted to officially change the name of the municipality to end its 28-year association with a Jamaican sugar plantation that used slave labour.

The Greens-led council, which takes in suburbs including Brunswick, Coburg, Fawkner, Glenroy and Pascoe Vale, committed to change its name last year.
The Porsche driver who filmed the aftermath of the Eastern Freeway crash that killed four police officers allegedly attached graphic photos of their dying moments to an online financial complaint after an insurance company rejected his $2.2 million claim over the tragedy.

A police officer told Sunshine Magistrates Court on Tuesday she felt angry and outraged after seeing an online post containing an image of the aftermath of the Kew crash that killed four colleagues on April 22, 2020. Another witness said he felt repulsed and sickened when he saw similar photos.

Richard Pusey has pleaded not guilty to four charges.

Richard Pusey was previously jailed for outraging public decency for filming the dying officers in the moments after they were hit by a truck. They had pulled Pusey over for speeding in his black Porsche.

Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King and constables Glen Humphris and Josh Prestney were killed when Mohinder Singhs truck veered into the emergency lane and hit them, while Pusey was at the side of the road. Singh was jailed for 22 years.
Police said on Thursday they had identified a man hit by a train in Brunswick on July 7, however declined to provide further information. They thanked the public for their assistance.

Police are investigating whether a mystery man who sustained significant head injuries after being struck by a train in Melbournes inner-north could be from overseas and speak a foreign language.

Investigators have run out of leads in their quest to identify the man, who has been in hospital for nearly five weeks and has only been able to utter a few words.

Officers have reviewed CCTV footage to trace the mans steps and searched missing person databases. They have tested his DNA and fingerprints, but there has been no match.
A Melbourne woman posed as two television soap stars to trick other women into relationships before stalking them, in a saga that was pure evil, the father of a victim has told a court.

Catfish Lydia Abdelmalek used the identities of former Home and Away star Lincoln Lewis and British actor Danny Mac to lure women into communicating before stalking and harassing them.

Lydia Abdelmalek.

The 32-year-old was found guilty of six stalking charges more than three years ago, but was released on bail during an attempt to appeal against her conviction.

Victorias County Court upheld the guilty verdict in May, and Abdelmalek returned to custody. She appeared in court on Tuesday to appeal against her sentence.
The family of singer, actor and cancer campaigner Olivia Newton-John plans to accept the offer of a state funeral.

Newton-Johns niece, Tottie Goldsmith, told A Current Affair on Tuesday night they wanted to accept the offer.

Melbournes Flinders Street Station has been lit up in pink to honour the life of Olivia Newton-John. Credit:Simon Schluter

We will, Goldsmith told the program when asked about a state funeral.

On behalf of not just our family but I think Australia needs it, shes so loved.
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has expressed regret over his handling of the Barilaro trade job scandal plaguing his government, conceding he would have asked his former colleague not to apply for the plum post if he had his time again.

The premier said hindsight allowed him to see the recruitment for US trade commissioner as clearly flawed and problematic, as he sought to explain why he encouraged John Barilaro to pursue the opportunity last year.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet on Tuesday. Credit:Kate Geraghty

If I had my time again, I would have asked him not to, the premier said on Tuesday.

If everyone knew what they knew now about the process, I mean, the whole situation has been incredibly disappointing for everybody who has been involved.
In a nondescript building in Perths southern suburbs, the biggest supercomputer in the southern hemisphere is taking shape.

The Pawsey Supercomputing Centre, already a behemoth of scientific data processing, just put the first stage of its new supercomputer through a demanding stress test  and it gave a stellar performance.

The image of a supernova remnant produced by the Setonix supercomputer. It is thought this remnant is about 100 light years wide and could have exploded in the Neolithic era. Credit:Dr Wasim Raja, Dr Pascal Elahi

Or, perhaps that should be an ex-stellar performance. As part of its integration into the Pawsey system, the supercomputer produced a highly detailed image: a giant cloud of dust and material left behind after a star died in a violent explosion known as a supernova.

The data for that image came from the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder radio telescope, owned and operated by the CSIRO in Western Australias Mid West, and focused on a supernova remnant between 10,000 and 15,000 light years away.
This triggered staff to report their findings to the Department of Justice, led by Attorney-General Merrick Garland. And thats when things started getting tricky for the former commander-in-chief. Loading While it is still not clear why the search took place or what it uncovered (neither the FBI nor DOJ has explained it) the reason its a political tinderbox comes down to Title 18 of the US Code, which codifies laws in America. Section 2071 of Title 18 makes it a crime if someone who has government documents wilfully and unlawfully conceals, removes, mutilates, obliterates, falsifies or destroys them. It also goes on to say that whoever is convicted of such a crime shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both; and shall forfeit his office and be disqualified from holding office under the United States.

To be clear, Trump has not been charged with wrongdoing and, with so many unanswered questions, it is still not certain if he will be. Whats more, to be disqualified from running would require someone to challenge his eligibility, which he could counter-challenge through the states or in court. He has, however, been hinting for months that he intends to run for president again in 2024, even as his legal woes pile up: take a select committee probe into the January 6 attack on the US Capitol; an Atlanta district attorney investigation into his election loss in the battleground state of Georgia; and a New York investigation into his business practices, including allegations that he misrepresented the value of his assets to secure loans and get tax breaks. To that end, its no wonder that many Democrats could barely contain their excitement after the raid, while many Republicans  even those who had grown weary of Trump and his antics  were outraged by what they saw as government overreach and a lack of transparency by federal authorities. Chillingly, some of his most ardent fans were even calling for violence, claiming, as Trump had, that the radical Left was trying to stop him from running for office again.

Civil War! Pick up arms, people, wrote one on Twitter. Getting ready for an uprising, wrote another. If you think Trump is likely to be deterred by this weeks events, think again. How dare they! Jupiter resident Kathy Luksch stands with others gathered to support Donald Trump near Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida. Credit:The Palm Beach Post/AP Legal experts say it wouldnt be easy to get approval for a search warrant of this kind, particularly when it involves a former president. Investigators would have to establish probable cause: not only that a crime may have been committed, but that there may be evidence at the premise of that particular crime. Then they would have to obtain approval from a judge to execute such a high-level search warrant.

Nonetheless, Trump was incredulous and released a campaign-style online ad painting America as a nation in decline that has weaponised its law-enforcement against the opposing political party like never before. The tyrants we are fighting do not stand even a little chance because we are Americans and Americans kneel to God and God alone, Trump says on the three-minute video. It is time to start talking about greatness for our country again  The best is yet to come. The January 6 hearing shows footage of Mike Pence at a secure location during the Capitol riots. Credit:AP Within hours, Trumps Save America fundraising arm and the Republican National Committee was also using the news to solicit for campaign money. THIS IS NOT A DRILL read one fundraising text message. UNPRECEDENTED move Bidens FBI RAIDS Pres Trumps home. Time to take back Congress.

Traditional conservatives and right-wing extremists alike were practically falling over themselves to vent their anger. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is viewed as Trumps biggest rival for the presidential nominee in 2024, called the incident a weaponisation of federal agencies. Loading House Republican Kevin McCarthy warned Garland that he would be launching a Congressional probe if, as expected, Republicans take back the House in November. And South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, who only a few days ago urged Trump to move on from his claims of electoral fraud to focus on the future, warned that launching an investigation of a former president this close to an election is beyond problematic.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Representatives of the Police Department, School Boards, and School Managers were introduced to the Handle with Care (HWC). HWC is a rapid support method to assist children who witness domestic violence or have been exposed to traumatic events, and the police are called in. The Court of Guardianship (CoG), in collaboration with UNICEF the Netherlands & Augeo Foundation is working towards implementing HWC in Sint Maarten.

During information sessions held at the University of Sint Maarten, stakeholders were informed about their (possible) roles within HWC and asked for feedback on the steps and challenges of implementation. During these sessions, representatives of the Community Police, Youth & Morals Department, school boards, school managers, school social workers, and counselors were present.

"The introduction to Handle with Care was well-received by the invited stakeholders. We were all in agreement that better coordination and support between departments is needed to work together in the best interest of children on the island," shares Kimberly Brown, Head of the CoG. The following steps include further sensitization meetings and workshops on HWC: "as we need everyone on board to ensure that this method is effective," explains Kimberly.

The HWC method targets children who witness or are victims of violence at home. Picture a child who has just witnessed violence at home, going to school, but their teacher does not know they require extra attention. Maybe the teacher even reprimands the student for unusual behavior. This may be understandable if the teacher does not know that the child is having a difficult time. This does not help the child feel safe or supported and can make the situation worse.

If the police are called to an incident of domestic violence, and there are children present, they contact the Court of Guardianship. The Court of Guardianship will contact the school within 24 hours and say: "name of the child + code word: handle with care. No further information is shared. The school is informed and can provide rapid social support to the child, and the CoG can work on preparing a safety plan for the family.

For more information on HWC: https://www.growingupsafe-sxm.com/issue-nr2/being-prepared-for-hurricanes/feature-handle-with-care

These activities are part of the Child Resilience and Protection Project (CRPP) executed by the Government of Sint Maarten in collaboration with UNICEF The Netherlands, financed by the Government of The Netherlands, through the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, as part of the Child Resilience and Protection Project (CRPP).
~Come out and Showcase your Products and Services on Friday, August 26, 2022.~



PHILIPSBURG:--- The Sint Maarten Library and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with the USM are hereby inviting young entrepreneurs in the age bracket from 12  24 years to participate in the Youth Entrepreneurship Fair on Friday, August 26, 2022. The fair opens at 9:00 a.m. and will end at 3:00 p.m. The Fair is organized in acknowledgment of World entrepreneurs day, Sunday, August 21, 2022, and the location is St. Martin University, on Pond Island.

This invite is in addition to all youth entrepreneurs extended to the 3rd formers of all High Schools, and interested students at the NIPA, and USM. Invitations were sent to the high schools and we are looking forward to their visit and participation in the fair during an allotted time slot of two hours. Unfortunately, some schools still are on vacation, However, their students and other interested youngsters and persons are most welcome to swing by and learn, listen and support the activities at the Fair.

During the day, young entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services. The Sint Maarten library will exhibit all the books from a collection of more than 200 brand-new books related to young entrepreneurship and offer the opportunity to lend books. There is also the possibility of becoming a member or renewing membership. Institutions instrumental in establishing a business in Sint Maarten will present their services and answer questions. Other classrooms will host entrepreneurship board games and presentations on How to become an entrepreneur in Sint Maarten?. There will also be several raffles. All prices are related to the subject.

This initiative arose from a cooperation between the (Dutch) Royal Library, the Sint Maarten Library, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry to encourage reading and learning more about the possibility of becoming an entrepreneur. The fair is in anticipation of launching a book about youth entrepreneurship in Sint Maarten later this year. The contents will be a combination of facts, experiences, and developments.

USM has willingly offered their facility for this initiative and together all three of us look forward to offering exposure to youth entrepreneurship second to none. Participants on the day of the fair must set up before 8:30 a.m. Folded tables and chairs will be available on request. Lunch and drinks will be taken care of.

Young entrepreneurs interested in showcasing their products and/or participating in the presentations are advised to contact the Sint Maarten Library (Phone: +1 721 542 2970 or Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ) before August 13, 2022. Parents of students at school who will like to participate are kindly requested to ask permission from their school management to ensure that they adhere to the compulsory education rules and regulations.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Under the Sint Maarten Trust Funds Emergency Recovery Project (ERP-1), repairs to private homes are making steady progress, as evidenced by the turning over of yet another home to a Sint Maarten resident.

In attendance at the handover ceremony on Wednesday, August 3, 2022, was Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs, Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) Egbert Doran, Dutch representative in Sint Maarten Chris Johnson, and National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB) Director Claret Connor.

During this ceremonial gathering, NRPB Director Connor, with the assistance of Minister Jacobs and Minister Doran, handed over the keys to a newly repaired home to the beneficiarys son, who accepted the keys on behalf of his mother.

The beneficiarys home was one of the many damaged during 2017s destructive hurricane season, which affected between 70 and 80% of Sint Maartens local housing sector. While many homeowners have repaired their homes through hard work and determination, ERP-1s private home repair program focused on Sint Maartens most financially vulnerable, such as senior citizens. Some of the programs eligibility criteria included the provision that homeowners could not have an income of more than NAf. 4,000 per month and they had to have been using the home as their primary residence.

With repairs to roofs, windows, and doors  as well as some structural works for enhanced safety  the ERP-1 home repair program has provided a safer environment for this segment of affected homeowners, following the Build Back Better principle.

As of August 1, 2022, exactly 160 private homes have been repaired through ERP-1, with work on an additional 18 private homes scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2023 under a new contract.

Noting the programs positive results, Prime Minister Jacobs is happy that so many families are now in more resilient homes ahead of the peak of this years hurricane season.

It has taken quite a while, but we are comforted in knowing that not only is the home fixed, but precautions have been taken to weather-proof it for future potential hurricanes. We would like to help more, but with the focus on seniors, we are able to help our societys vulnerable. This mother and grandmother can finally spend the night in the comfort of her own home; if thats not progress, I dont know what is, said Prime Minister Jacobs.

The enhanced safety features embedded in ERP-1's home repair program were developed in close collaboration with the Ministry of VROMI.

The recently established building codes will help to make a more informed decision on how to rebuild after a disaster. I am delighted to be part of the handover of keys to another newly repaired home, and I urge all residents to build more resiliently, said VROMI Minister Doran about the need for rebuilding in a more resilient manner in light of ever-stronger Atlantic hurricanes.

Highlighting the cooperation between the Government of Sint Maarten and the Government of the Netherlands, Dutch Representative Johnson said: Its always nice to see the results of inter-kingdom cooperation, and so far, the Sint Maarten Trust Fund has been a great example of that. The NRPB is doing fine work and deserves a lot of credit for their results and continued efforts.

The repairs of private homes damaged during the 2017 hurricanes could only have been possible through the dedicated efforts of many stakeholders, such as the NRPB, the Government of Sint Maarten, the World Bank, the Dutch Government, and non-governmental organizations. Im pleased to see the positive results that have been achieved, and our enhanced resilience is due to the tireless efforts and work of everyone involved, said NRPB Director Connor.

In addition to the 160 private homes, the ERP-1 home repair program has also directly repaired 109 units of the Sint Maarten Housing Development Foundation (SMHDF), while working on another 64 units of the Belvedere Towers is currently underway. Moreover, ERP-1 has provided retroactive financing for 160 units that were repaired by SMHDF immediately after the 2017 hurricane season.

ERP-1 is one of the many projects of the Sint Maarten Trust Fund, which is financed by the Government of the Netherlands, managed by the World Bank, and implemented by the NRPB on behalf of the Government of Sint Maarten.

For more information about ERP-1, people can visit the NRPBs website www.nrpbsxm.org/erp1.
Uranium Energy Corp. and UEX Corporation Announce Amendment to the Arrangement Agreement

More than 38% of eligible UEX securities have already been tendered, as of this press release, with 93.4% voting in favour of the UEC transaction

Uranium Energy Corp. (NYSE American: UEC, the aCompanya or aUECa  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/uranium-energy-corp/ ) and UEX Corporation (TSX:UEX, aUEXa) are pleased to announce that they have entered into an amending agreement (the aAmending Agreementa) to the previously announced arrangement agreement dated June 13, 2022, as amended June 23, 2022, among UEX, UEC and the UEC 2022 Acquisition Corp., pursuant to which UEC will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of UEX (aUEX Sharesa) by way of a statutory plan of arrangement (the aArrangementa) under the Canada Business Corporations Act (the aTransactiona).

Under the terms of the Amending Agreement, holders of UEX Shares (aUEX Shareholdersa) will now receive 0.0890 of one common share of UEC (a aUEC Sharea) for each UEX Share held, implying consideration of approximately C$0.49 per UEX Share based on the closing price of UEX Shares and UEC Shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the NYSE American Exchange, respectively, and the spot exchange rate as of August 5, 2022. The Amending Agreement also increases the termination fee (to be paid by UEX to UEC if the Transaction is terminated in certain specified circumstances) by 7%, which is an increase proportional to the percentage increase in the offered exchange ratio under the Amending Agreement. Other than the foregoing, the terms of the Transaction remain unamended.

Amir Adnani, President and CEO of UEC, commented: aWe are pleased to have come to an agreement with UEX and look forward to completing this Transaction following the UEX Shareholder vote tomorrow. As mentioned previously, the acquisition is expected to double UECa?s uranium resources[1] at only 14.2% dilution to existing UEC Shareholders. Completion of this Transaction will create the largest, diversified North American focused uranium company with 100% unhedged production. Roger Lemaitre and the UEX team have done a remarkable job assembling and advancing a highly prospective portfolio and UEC is looking forward to working with their experienced Canadian team to unlock additional value for shareholders.a

Roger Lemaitre, President and CEO of UEX, commented: aWe look forward to tomorrowa?s Meeting where shareholders will have the opportunity to vote on the amended UEC-UEX arrangement. We believe the combined companies will become the ago-toa? name in the uranium industry. The combined company would be unique, possessing a strong balance sheet, near-term production capacity at the Wyoming and Texas Hubs, a solid long-term uranium production pipeline, the ability to continue to grow its resource base through continued exploration in the Athabasca Basin and its U.S. properties, and the opportunity to extract additional value by holding one of the largest property portfolios in the industry.a

The terms of the Amending Agreement were agreed following receipt by UEX of a competing acquisition proposal on July 28, 2022 for all of the issued and outstanding UEX Shares.

Board of Directorsa? Recommendations

The Amending Agreement has been unanimously approved by the Board of Directors of UEX who continue to recommend that UEX Shareholders and holders of options and restricted share units of UEX (collectively, the aUEX Securityholdersa) vote in favour of the Transaction. The Amending Agreement has also been unanimously approved by the Board of Directors of UEC.

Transaction Conditions and Timing

Full details of the Transaction are included in the management information circular of UEX dated July 8, 2022 (the \Circular\). The Transaction will be subject to the approval of at least (i) 66 2/3% of the votes cast by UEX Shareholders, and (ii) 66 2/3% of the votes cast by UEX Securityholders, voting together as a single class, at the special meeting of UEX Securityholders which will continue to be held on Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. (Vancouver time) at the Metropolitan Hotel, 645 Howe Street, Vancouver, British Columbia (the aMeetinga).

If the UEX Securityholders approve the Arrangement at the Meeting, it is currently anticipated that the Arrangement will be completed in by mid-August, subject to obtaining court approval, stock exchange approval and certain required regulatory approvals, as well as the satisfaction or waiver of other conditions contained in the Arrangement Agreement.

On completion of the Arrangement, former UEX Shareholders are expected to hold approximately 14.2% of the outstanding UEC Shares (based on the issued and outstanding UEC Shares as of the date hereof).

None of the securities to be issued pursuant to the Transaction have been or will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the aU.S. Securities Acta), or any state securities laws, and any securities issuable in the Transaction are anticipated to be issued in reliance upon available exemptions from such registration requirements pursuant to Section 3(a)(10) of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable exemptions under state securities laws. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.

UEX Securityholders who have questions regarding the Transaction should contact Laurel Hill Advisory Group by telephone at 1-877-452-7184 (North American Toll Free) or 1-416-304-0211 (Outside North America), or by email at assistance@laurelhill.com.

About Uranium Energy Corp

Uranium Energy Corp is Americaa?s leading, fastest growing, uranium mining company listed on the NYSE American. UEC is a pure play uranium company and is advancing the next generation of low-cost, environmentally friendly In-Situ Recovery (ISR) mining uranium projects. The Company has two production ready ISR hub and spoke platforms in South Texas and Wyoming, anchored by fully licensed and operational processing capacity at the Hobson and Irigaray plants. UEC also has seven U.S. ISR uranium projects with all of their major permits in place. Additionally, the Company has other diversified holdings of uranium assets, including: (1) one of the largest physical uranium portfolios of U.S. warehoused U3O8; (2) a major equity stake in the only royalty company in the sector, Uranium Royalty Corp.; and (3) a pipeline of resource-stage uranium projects in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Paraguay. The Companya?s operations are managed by professionals with a recognized profile for excellence in their industry, a profile based on many decades of hands-on experience in the key facets of uranium exploration, development and mining.

About UEX Corporation

UEX is a Canadian uranium and cobalt exploration and development company involved in an exceptional portfolio of uranium projects. UEXa?s directly-owned portfolio of projects is located in the eastern, western and northern perimeters of the Athabasca Basin, the world\-s richest uranium region which in 2020 accounted for approximately 8.1% of the global primary uranium production. In addition to advancing its uranium development projects through its ownership interest in JCU, UEX is currently advancing several other uranium deposits in the Athabasca Basin which include the Paul Bay, Ken Pen and ?rora deposits at the Christie Lake Project , the Kianna, Anne, Colette and 58B deposits at its currently 49.1%-owned Shea Creek Project, the Horseshoe and Raven deposits located on its 100%-owned Horseshoe-Raven Project and the West Bear Uranium Deposit located at its 100%-owned West Bear Project.

Additional Information

Full details of the amendment are set out in the Amending Agreement, which will be filed by UEX under its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and UEC under its profiles on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and EDGAR at www.sec.gov. In addition, further information regarding the Arrangement has been shared in the Circular prepared in connection with the Meeting and filed on UEXa?s profile on www.sedar.com. All UEX Securityholders are urged to read the Amending Agreement and the Circular, as they will contain additional important information concerning the Arrangement.

[1] Subject to the completion of technical report summaries by UEC following closing of the proposed acquisition of UEX.

Safe Harbor Statement

Except for the statements of historical fact contained herein, the information presented in this news release constitutes aforward-looking statementsa as such term is used in applicableA United StatesA and Canadian laws. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. Any other statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as aexpectsa or adoes not expecta, ais expecteda, aanticipatesa or adoes not anticipatea, aplans, aestimatesa or aintendsa, or stating that certain actions, events or results amaya, acoulda, awoulda, amighta or awilla be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and should be viewed as aforward-looking statementsa. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, market and other conditions, the actual results of exploration activities, variations in the underlying assumptions associated with the estimation or realization of mineral resources, the availability of capital to fund programs and the resulting dilution caused by the raising of capital through the sale of shares, accidents, labor disputes and other risks of the mining industry including, without limitation, those associated with the environment, delays in obtaining governmental approvals, permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities, title disputes or claims limitations on insurance coverage. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained in this news release and in any document referred to in this news release. Certain matters discussed in this news release and oral statements made from time to time by representatives of the Company may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the Federal securities laws. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectations will be achieved. Forward-looking information is subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Many of these factors are beyond the Company\-s ability to control or predict. Important factors that may cause actual results to differ materially and that could impact the Company and the statements contained in this news release can be found in the Company\-s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. ForA forward-lookingA statements in this news release, the Company claims the protection of the safe harborA for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company assumes no obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities.

Forward-Looking Statement Cautions

This news release includes certain aForward?Looking Statementsa within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and aforward?looking informationa under applicable Canadian securities laws. These forward?looking statements or information relate to, among other things: the ability of UEC and UEX to satisfy the other conditions to, and to complete the Arrangement; and the anticipated timing of closing of the Arrangement.

These statements reflect the partiesa? respective current views with respect to future events and are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Such factors include, the synergies expected from the Arrangement not being realized; business integration risks; fluctuations in general macro?economic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets and the market price of UEC Shares; fluctuations in the spot and forward price of uranium or certain other commodities (such as natural gas, fuel oil and electricity); fluctuations in the currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar and the U.S. dollar); changes in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and the United States; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards and industrial accidents); risks relating to the credit worthiness or financial condition of suppliers, refiners and other parties with whom the parties do business; inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; and the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining, availability and increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities; title to properties; and the factors identified under the caption aRisk Factorsa in UECa?s Form 10K and under the caption aRisk Factorsa in UEXa?s Annual Information Form. A

In addition, the failure of UEX to comply with the terms of the Amending Agreement may result in UEX being required to pay a termination fee to UEC, the result of which could have a material adverse effect on UEXa?s financial position and results of operations and its ability to fund growth prospects and current operations. Although the UEX has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The parties do not intend, and do not assume any obligation, to update these forward?looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.
Nuclear power and uranium

The Russia-Ukraine war is also causing the world to split into two camps when it comes to uranium. The western part with Europe, Japan, Australia and North America is one side of the uranium market, the other side is more or less the rest. In the case of uranium, Russia and the countries with Russian input are important producer countries. So, given the current situation, the West will seek to become more independent and provide its own uranium supplies, to the extent possible. Uranium companies with uranium projects in the Western area are likely to face lucrative times. The U.S. has already pointed in this direction with various laws. For example, nuclear power plants located in the U.S. must use domestic uranium. In addition, production of uranium has declined over the past decade, while demand has increased.

The yield from uranium mines is also declining in some cases. For example, Kazatomprom, the world\-s largest uranium producer, produced around eleven percent less uranium in the second quarter of 2022 than in the same period of the previous year. Here, among other things, the pandemic had an impact on the development of drilling fields due to a shortage of certain materials. In 2021, the Group accounted for around 24 percent of global uranium production. Today, many experts are predicting a possible supercycle in uranium. Uranium is now safe, CO2-free, enjoys increasing acceptance. And wind and solar power alone will not be enough to meet climate goals and provide adequate energy supplies. Uranium companies such as Consolidated Uranium or Labrador Uranium could therefore be investments with very good prospects of success. Consolidated Uranium  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAZP4Xrc-0M&t=2s  owns uranium projects or the rights to acquire them in Argentina, Australia, Canada and the USA. It also has previously producing uranium and vanadium mines in Utah and Colorado. Labrador Uranium  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tw25CP21Ifs&t=145s  focuses on uranium projects in Labrador, Canada, covering nearly 140,000 hectares of prospective land.

Current corporate information and press releases from Consolidated Uranium ( https://www.resource-capital.ch/de/unternehmen/consolidated-uranium-inc/ ) and Labrador Uranium (https://www.resource-capital.ch/de/unternehmen/labrador-uranium-inc/ ).

In accordance with A34 of the German Securities Trading Act (WpHG), I would like to point out that partners, authors and employees may hold shares in the respective companies addressed and that there is therefore a possible conflict of interest. No guarantee for the translation into German. Only the English version of this news is valid.

Disclaimer: The information provided does not constitute any form of recommendation or advice. Express reference is made to the risks involved in securities trading. No liability can be accepted for any damages arising from the use of this blog. I would like to point out that shares and especially warrant investments are fundamentally associated with risk. The total loss of the invested capital cannot be excluded. All information and sources are carefully researched. However, no guarantee is given for the correctness of all contents. Despite the greatest care, I expressly reserve the right to make a mistake, especially with regard to figures and prices. The information contained is taken from sources that are considered reliable, but in no way claim to be correct or complete. Due to judicial decisions the contents of linked external pages are to be answered for (so among other things regional court Hamburg, in the judgement of 12.05.1998  312 O 85/98), as long as no explicit dissociation from these takes place. Despite careful control of the contents, I do not assume any liability for the contents of linked external pages. The respective operators are exclusively responsible for their content. TheA disclaimer of Swiss Resource Capital AG applies additionally: https://www.resource-capital.ch/de/disclaimer-agb/
Acting Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys has released the 2023 requested rate filings for insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act.

As filed, 2023 will see increased competition and more choices for consumers within some counties. Both the individual and small group rate requests will result in a moderate statewide average increase.

As we navigate through the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pennsylvania continues to have a strong and competitive insurance market, said Commissioner Humphreys. Increased choices and plan options will provide Pennsylvanians with the opportunity to shop for the best coverage options for themselves and their families.

Insurers offering plans in the individual market filed plans requesting an average statewide increase of 7.1 percent. Insurers that currently sell in Pennsylvanias small group market filed plans requesting an average statewide increase of 5.2 percent.

Similar to other states filings, insurers are attributing the proposed increases to multiple factors including but not limited to:

 rising health care costs

 projected claims due to deferred care resulting from the pandemic

 increases in medical and drug utilization and cost trends

 the ending of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) enhanced subsidies

As currently filed, of Pennsylvanias 67 counties, no county will lose an on-exchange insurer

Looking to Plan Year 2023, every county in Pennsylvania will have more than one insurer in the individual market and more than one on-exchange insurer. This is consistent with Plan Year 2022, when the increased competition among multiple insurers has provided consumers with more options to make the best decision for individuals, as well as families.

The federal American Rescue Plans financial assistance saw out-of-pocket premium costs borne by Pennsylvanians decrease by an average of 9 percent. Many families who believed that comprehensive health care coverage was beyond their reach were able to purchase plans that provided quality care as a direct result of the ARPA subsidies. However, if these subsidies are allowed to expire, Pennsylvanians will see out-of-pocket costs increase, and coverage for many may become unaffordable.

The Wolf Administration has worked toward ensuring all Pennsylvanians have access to the care they need during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, and in 2022, Pennsylvania saw the lowest uninsured rate in history, at 5.4 percent, thanks in large part to the affordability and access of coverage offered by the American Rescue Plan enhanced subsidies, said Commissioner Humphreys. We cannot afford to slow or lose this progress.

He continued, Congress must extend ARPA subsidies to ensure families are able to purchase or maintain affordable coverage. We are hopeful that the subsidy extension being discussed in the U.S. Senate quickly becomes law, providing time for the Department to review any necessary impact on, or modifications to, filed rates.

Nearly 375,000 Pennsylvanians enrolled in health coverage through the Commonwealths official marketplace, Pennie, during the last Open Enrollment period, an 11 percent increase compared to 2021. This includes more than 35,000 middle-income individuals who for the first time qualified for financial assistance to lower the cost of health coverage by an average of $252 per month.

As we look forward to open enrollment in the fall, the Insurance Department and Pennie strongly recommend Pennsylvanians shop around for the best plan to fit their individual, family, and financial needs, even if they are currently enrolled in a health insurance plan through Pennie.

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department is committed to thoroughly analyzing the requested rates to hold them to the standards of not being excessive, inadequate, or discriminatory, in keeping with the departments mission to meet the needs of Pennsylvanias health insurance consumers.

The deadline to submit rate filings for 2023 health insurance plans to the Insurance Department was June 1, 2022. Proposed rate changes vary by plan and region and are subject to change as the department conducts its review process. Final approved rates will be made public in the fall.

Public comment on rate requests can be emailed to ra-in-comment@pa.gov.
Applications open for new Young Ambassadors Program

The Wolf Administration joined Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful representatives to announce the launch of the statewide anti-litter campaign, PA Fights Dirty: Every Litter Bit Matters.

A litter-prevention campaign was among many state and local government, stakeholder, business, and legislative recommendations in the commonwealths first-ever Litter Action Plan released last year.

As a commonwealth we recognize we need to change behavior, not just clean up the mess, PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian said. With our collective efforts and this litter-prevention campaign we are confident we can reduce litter in Pennsylvania.

Every Litter Bit Matters calls upon Pennsylvanians to ensure every piece of their trash, regardless of size, is disposed of properly. The campaign is based on research that shows only 3% of Pennsylvanians approve of littering, yet 40 to 50 percent litter. Every Litter Bit Matters will educate Pennsylvanians on situational littering, such as leaving trash on the ground next to a full can or in a stadium, as well as remind Pennsylvanians that litter of all sizes stacks up and creates problems.

Litter isnt just ugly to look at. It can cause environmental contamination and put public health at risk, said Department of Environmental Protection Acting Secretary Ramez Ziadeh. Litter can leach chemicals into our land and water, and act as breeding grounds for mosquitoes that carry West Nile Virus.

PA Fights Dirty was developed as part of the Wolf Administrations Litter Action Plan and in response to the 2019 Pennsylvania Litter Research Study, which found Pennsylvania has more than 500 million pieces of litter on its roadways. More than 85 percent of these pieces are less than four inches in size. Every Litter Bit Matters encourages Pennsylvanians to properly dispose of even their smallest pieces of trash.

In addition to improving aesthetics and pride, a goal of Every Litter Bit Matters is to reduce litter-related costs, which are currently around $350 million each year.

As we work hand-in-hand with local community leaders, they frequently mention the challenges they face with litter  a challenge that impacts property values, business attraction, quality of life, health, and so much more, said DCED Acting Secretary Neil Weaver. By preventing littering from occurring, we are saving communities valuable time and money in litter removal.

The event also featured the states Young Ambassadors Program, a new partnership with PennDOT and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful (KPB). The program  which starts accepting applications today  was recommended in the Litter Action Plan and invites Pennsylvania rising 10th - through 12th -grade students to help keep the commonwealth clean.

We are honored to offer the Young Ambassadors of Pennsylvania Program in partnership with PennDOT. We know the students of today hold the key to a sustainable future. Were excited to work with and guide this group of Young Ambassadors to implement change in their communities and the commonwealth, said Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful President Shannon Reiter.

The students  chosen through a competitive process  will commit to nine months of service in representing and upholding the mission and values of KPB. Other responsibilities include attending a virtual orientation, four virtual education and training workshops, and up to two virtual networking events, organizing and participating in at least one community cleanup event through Pick Up Pennsylvania, conducting one community education event targeting youth in the students community and promoting participation on social media.

From September 2022 through May 2023, Young Ambassadors will build community stewardship by inspiring, engaging, and empowering Pennsylvanians to keep their communities clean and develop civic leadership to advocate for clean and beautiful communities across Pennsylvania.

More information and the application for the Young Ambassadors Program can be found on the KPB website, http://www.keeppabeautiful.org

With education and engagement as critical pieces in litter prevention, Pennsylvania State Polices work to enforce litter laws was also discussed. From January 1 through June 30 this year, PSP personnel issued 661 citations and 562 warnings in enforcing anti-littering laws.

The Pennsylvania State Police is committed to keeping Pennsylvania beautiful by enforcing the states litter laws, said Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Robert Evanchick. Littering is 100 percent preventable with fines beginning at $300. The public is encouraged to report any litter violation they witness by contacting their local law enforcement agency.
El Aaiun (refugee camps), 8 August 2022 (SPS) - The work of the 4th Congress of the Students Union of Saguia el Hamra and Rio de Oro (UESARIO) which ended Monday in the Sahrawi refugee camps, stressed the role of students in the struggle for liberation and construction.



The closing ceremony of the congress of Martyr Bakar Lagdaf Abeih, held under the theme "Sahrawi Students ... Force for Liberation and Construction" was chaired by the President of the Republic, Secretary General of the Polisario Front, Brahim Ghali, in the presence of members of the National Secretariat and the government.



The President of the Republic highlighted the sacrifices and achievements made by the fighters of the Sahrawi People's Liberation Army (SPLA), saluting the heroes of the Liberation Army and the intifadha for independence, as well as the incarcerated students and all Sahrawi prisoners.



President Ghali welcomed the participation of the delegations to the congress, hailing the 5th International Conference of Students for Solidarity with the Sahrawi People, "headed by the delegation of Algeria, country of one and a half million martyrs".



Mr. Ghali also welcomed the African Union (AU), calling for an end to the Moroccan occupation of Western Sahara and thus "complete the decolonization process in Africa.



The 4th Congress of the Students Union of Saguia el Hamra and Rio de Oro (UESARIO) elected Khalihana Al-Ghazwani as the Secretary-General of the Union for a new four-year term. The Congress also elected an Executive Office, it should be recalled.



062/T
BEIJING, Aug. 9 -- The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) continues to organize joint combat exercises and training in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Island on August 9, with emphasis on joint blockade and joint support operations, said the WeChat official account of the theater command on Tuesday.
Airline industry experts say that the type of impact that the recent merger between JetBlue and Spirit airlines will have on Bradley International Airport will depend upon how other airlines react to the combination of the two carriers.

The merger would create the nations fifth largest airline. But it would reduce the number of low cost carriers serving Bradley, according to Ravi Sarathy, professor of Strategy & International Business at Northeastern Universitys DAmore-McKim School of Business.

Bradley will have two low-cost airlines - Breeze and Frontier, Sarathy said. A great deal depends on how much Frontier wants to compete from Bradley and offer low fares.

Under the right circumstances, he said, Bradley could benefit significantly from the merger.

Bradley is not gate and slot constrained as other larger airports, so it will be easier for both Frontier and JetBlue to expand service from Bradley, depending on demand growth projections, Sarathy said.

Spirit had 173 planes at the start of this year and, according to regulatory filings, has orders to receive another 120 through 2027.

Over time, as the new aircraft ordered by Spirit start arriving, JetBlue will likely offer more routes out of Bradley on new routes such as to Las Vegas, Houston and Caribbean destinations, Sarathy said.

Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst and president of Atmosphere Research Group, said that while the loss of one of the nations largest low cost airlines could be viewed as a negative, it is tempered by the fact that Frontier is growing.

The good news is JetBlue sees Hartford as very important to its network and has shown its willing to add flights there, Harteveldt said. If JetBlue should drop any of its routes at Bradley or any other airport that Frontier also operates out of, I think youd see Frontier step in to pick up that route. They (Frontier) are very ambitious.

Breeze Airways is also growing aggressively, he said, which also benefits consumers flying out of Bradley.

Two other airline industry experts said the deal is a reflection of the current state of the business.

Michael Boyd, a Colorado-based airline consultant, said the deal between JetBlue and Spirit is more of an asset acquisition than an actual merger.

JetBlue is acquiring Spirit because it wants its airplanes and its pilots, Boyd said. Their operations have very little in common. JetBlue is a pretty well run airline while Spirit is the kind of airline people fly as an impulse buy, because their fares are so low.

David Sacco, practitioner-in-residence from the University of New Haven's Pompea College of Business, said because the airline industry is such a low margin business, JetBlue is doing the deal because it allows them to buy market share.

They (JetBlue) get more routes and they get to cut a lot of costs, Sacco said.

JetBlue was second only to American Airlines during 2021 in terms of the air carrier most used by travelers, according to data from the Connecticut Airport Authority.

American carried 553,455 passengers out of Bradley to other destinations in 2021, which represents 27.2 percent of total enplanements at the airport. JetBlue carried 439,717 passengers out the airport last year, which represents 21.6 percent of all enplanements.

By contrast, Spirit had 198,380 enplanements at Bradley and 199,850 deplanements of passengers traveling to Connecticut using the airline.

In a statement on Monday, CAA Public Information Officer Ryan Tenny said agency officials are closely monitoring the news of Spirit Airlines and JetBlue Airways intent to merge.

To date, both airlines have been an integral part of the growing route network at Bradley International Airport, Tenny said. We look forward to learning more about their potential merger and what their unified national presence may mean for the local market.

luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com
Chad Lyons / Contributed photo

Avelo Airlines announced it added Wilmington, N.C. as its 14th destination from Tweed New Haven Regional Airport back in June. The announcement came just a month after it unveiled another three destinations from Tweed New Haven Regional Airport in May: Chicago's Midway International Airport, Baltimore-Washington International Airport and Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

In February, the airline unveiled another four more destinations taking off from the Elm City airport in May: Nashville, Tenn.; Savannah, Ga./Hilton Head, S.C.; Charleston, S.C.; and Myrtle Beach, S.C. Its last Florida stop was added on Jan. 13 when it expanded its service to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, marking the start of the airline's three-day-a-week service to destination.
BRIDGEPORT  After promising love and wealth, the leader of a lottery and romance scheme ring was sentenced on Monday, according to federal prosecutors.

U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport ordered Farouq Fasasi, 28, of Manchester, to serve 14 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release for his role in scams that primarily targeted seniors, U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery said in a news release Monday.

Investigators discovered that the scams defrauded more than 200 victims across the U.S. of more than $5 million.

Many of the victims were elderly and vulnerable, and some victims lost their life savings, the U.S. Attorneys Office said. One Connecticut victim lost more than $1 million.

This is an appropriate sentence for a financial predator who made his money by systematically and cruelly victimizing seniors and other vulnerable individuals, Avery said in a statement.

Fasasi is currently released on $200,000 bond. He is required to report to prison on Sept. 21.

From August 2015 to March 2020, Fasasi, Rodney Thomas Jr. and others scammed mostly seniors by claiming the victims had won the lottery and needed to pay fees, or pose as a potential love interest and say they needed funds to visit the victim or to pay for a medical emergency. These scams would induce the victims to give Fasasi and others money, gifts and personal details. Victims sent cash, money orders or checks to various addresses in Connecticut, or they wired or deposited money directly into bank accounts controlled by members of the scheme, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

Fasasi, Thomas and other members of the scheme lived together for some time at a multi-family home on Sherman Avenue in New Haven. There, they received many packages that contained cash, checks and money orders from victims, according to the U.S. Attorneys office.

Investigators with the U.S. Postal Service started looking into the scheme when they discovered a significant number of packages were being delivered to the Sherman Avenue home, as well as another address in New Haven and an address in Hamden, according to court documents.

Fasasi also recruited others into the scheme, including those who served as money mules. The money mules used personal bank accounts and also established accounts for businesses and charities to launder money obtained from fraud victims, the U.S. Attorneys Office said.

Fasasi and Thomas were found guilty of multiple charges stemming from the scheme on Feb. 15. In addition to his sentence, Underhill ordered Fasasi to pay $5.95 million in restitution. Thomas awaits sentencing.

Four others have also been charged and convicted of offenses stemming from their participation in the scheme.

For seniors who may be victims of financial fraud, please call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 (833-372-8311).
NEW CANAAN  An appeal has been filed in Stamford Superior Court against New Canaans Water Pollution Control Authority disputing a decision to deny a sewer connection for a 102-unit building under General Stature 8-30g at 751 Weed Street.

The appeal is a response to a unanimous vote taken by the WPCA, a group that doubles as the New Canaan Board of Finance, to reject a request for the sewer connection on July 12 in response to the housing application first filed in January, but later withdrawn and resubmitted in April.

Appeals like this one take at least a few months. Obviously my client needs the permit in order to proceed with construction, Timothy Hollister, attorney for the plaintiffs associated with Karp Associates, said Monday.

The WPCAs denial is illegal and contrary to General Statues 7-245c, according to the appeal filed on Aug. 1 on behalf of 751 Weed Street, LLC and W.E. Partners by Hollister of Hinckley, Allen and Snyder LLP. It states that the record contains no factual or legal basis for denial of the application...

The crux of the dispute focuses on whether a sewer hook-up proposed for a development, which would include 30 affordable housing units, would require an extension or a new connection of the sewer line.

The appeal argues the sewer hook-up does not qualify as an extension because the WPCA had granted permission in 1959 to Arthur Watson to extend public sewer to the property. Also, neighboring properties of the 3.1-acre property with a 10,000 square-foot house are already connected to the public sewer system, the appeal states. All buildings on Elm Street are hooked up to sewer as well.

The application calls for a 130-foot long pipe to run down Elm Street to a sewer connection instead of using a private easement that crosses a property at 313 Elm St. and continues along a private driveway adjacent to 313 and 339 Elm St. The applicant proposed to move the sewer connection point from a private easement to relieve the driveway owners of the easement and facilitate future maintenance, according to the appeal.

Obtaining a sewer extension is one of the few regulatory obstacles for construction of multifamily housing under CGS 8-30g, since the law allows developers to bypass many local zoning laws.

The town engineer reported that there were no known issues with the sewer and that it had ample capacity, but opposed the application and said the town had no plan to extend the sewer main, according to the appeal.

This comes at a time when residents and local officials have raised concerns about affordable housing on three locations in town and while the town is not currently eligible for an 8-30g moratorium.

The appeal requests the court order the WPCA to approve the April 14 application and award costs as provided by law. The appeal requires the WPCA file a response to the Superior Court for the district of Norwalk-Stamford by Aug. 24.

In Connecticut, public sewers are public utilities, meaning that they are public services, paid for by property tax revenue and thus property owners and taxpayers are entitled to non-discriminatory access to and use of the system, the appeal states.

The appeal argues that the town attorney also disputed his own initial assessment. It states that in evaluating the application, the WPCA has limited discretion. Since the property is within the sewer district and is currently connected to the sewer, the applicant will argue that it has a right to connection. That conclusion is supported by case law...

In contrast, on June 7 at the WPCA hearing, the town attorney advised the WPCA that it had the discretion to consider the application as an extension. The appeal quotes statements made in emails sent to the WPCA.

The appeal quotes First Selectman Kevin Moynihan as calling it an existential threat to New Canaan's village character. Selectman Nick Williams called it an abortion of a project, according to the appeal.

Resident Karyn Feiner warned against walking in Irwin Park with an additional 102 to 404 people..., the appeal quotes.

On Monday, when Hearst asked Hollister if the sewer hookup was denied because it is for affordable housing, he said he had no comment on what led the WPCA to take the action it did, but that it would have to respond in due time.
DARIEN  Town police say that the suspect in the stabbing of a car hire service driver in June was captured while allegedly on the run in Maryland.

Darien police Sgt. Dan Skoumbros said police are awaiting the extradition of 28-year-old Abiola Shonowo, a suspect in the June 27 assault on the driver.

Shonowo, a Maryland resident who is facing unspecified charges in connection to the Connecticut assault, is being held in custody in Maryland on an unrelated charge of violation of probation.

Police were called to a reported crash near West and Holmes avenues a little after 10:30 p.m. June 27. The driver told police that he intentionally crashed his vehicle into a tree to stop an attack by his passenger, Sgt. Dan Skoumbros said in a news release.

The driver reported that he picked up a customer in Stamford. While on their way to a destination in Norwalk, and shortly after entering Darien, the suspect allegedly stabbed the driver several times and then robbed him of his cellphone, according to Skoumbros.

The driver suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the attack, police said at the time.

After seizing the car services account and phone records, Skoumbros said Darien police identified Shonowo as a suspect.

Police learned Shonowo was arrested in Baltimore County on July 4 on a violation of probation charge and was still in custody.

Skoumbros said police also learned that Shonowo allegedly was in possession of stolen property that further connected him to the Darien incident at the time of his arrest in Maryland.
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STAMFORD  A developer is moving forward with long-held plans to convert one of Stamford's most storied churches into an apartment complex.

The vision will turn the now-vacant First Congregational Church into new homes for hundreds of people in Downtown Stamford while preserving the 1913 building, according to plans first presented to the city's Historic Preservation Advisory Commission last week.

The congregation sold its former 1 Walton Place home in 2019 after years of dwindling church attendance and financial hardships. First Congregational leadership in 2018 planned to sell the house of worship to another religious organization, but the deal fell through, paving the way for real estate company Copperline Partners' purchase.

The congregation in 2019 said it prioritized finding a new owner that would "retain much of the original structure," given its prominent location abutting Stamford's Latham Park.

The early history of Stamford is intertwined with that of First Congregational Church. In fact, historians consider First Congregational to be one of the first organized churches in Connecticut, as it split from another historic congregation in Waterbury.

Long before the church building was opened, First Congregational Church was the center of life in Stamford. Town and church meetings were considered one and the same for decades, according to the Stamford Historical Society.

"The church is really very, very deeply rooted in Stamford's history," Daryn Reyman-Lock, the project's historical consultant, told the board last week. "Not only because of its association with the First Congregational Church itself .... but just in a physical sense."

In fact, the First Congregational structure is built from granite mined from the rock that was once on the land where the church sits.

Because of that history, Reyman-Lock told HPAC that her research on the property attempted to capture what "the original design for the building actually was, what the church looked like at the time of its initial construction," and "what the development of this building was over time."

But that won't mean everything on the property will stay the same.

To accommodate the 224 apartments that Copperline Partners seeks to build, it wants to demolish a 1960s addition near the back of the lot. Plans show that the original church building will remain largely the same from the exterior, but the developer intends to put amenity space for residents inside the structure.

Copperline Partners owns two other buildings near the First Congregational property: 65 and 77 Prospect St. Those two buildings will share the new amenity space with the former church's new tenants.

On a smaller scale, some of the stained glass windows on the church building will also be removed and given back to the congregation as mementos from its hundred-year-plus tenure in Downtown Stamford.

The renovation still must obtain regulatory approvals from at least two other city boards. The city Planning Board is scheduled to weigh the project at its Tuesday meeting. The Zoning Board must give final approval when it returns from its summer recess in September.

veronica.delvalle@hearstmediact.com
Two Stamford men are each facing several years in prison for selling fentanyl from China that they disguised as oxycodone pills using a press, federal prosecutors said Tuesday.

Arber Isaku, 32, was sentenced to 51 months in prison, and Vincent Decaro, also 32, was sentenced to 48 months in prison, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Connecticut said.

Both men were also sentenced to three years supervision once released from prison.

Prosecutors allege the two men worked out of Decaros West Hill Circle home in Stamford, purchasing fentanyl analogues  a synthetic opioid 50 to 100 times as powerful as morphine  from China.

The men then pressed the drug into counterfeit oxycodone pills, which they sold to customers on dark web markets, prosecutors said.

They were also aided by a third man, David Reichard, who prosecutors said lived at Decaros home for a short time.

Prosecutors said Reichard helped press the pills and then mail them to customers. He has also pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing, the U.S. attorneys office said.

On April 3, 2018, authorities searched Decaros home and located pills containing some 330 grams of fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl, the U.S. attorneys office said. That search also turned up about 40 grams of fentanyl analogues in powder, three pill presses and instructions on how to prepare carfentanil, prosecutors said.

The synthetic opioid is about 100 times as potent as fentanyl, and 10,000 times more potent than morphine.

The U.S. attorneys office said Isaku and Decaro were in Europe at the time of the search, and both were arrested in September 2018 by authorities in Albania. The office said the two were planning to travel from Albania into Kosovo at the time of their arrest.

A search of an apartment in Tirana where they had been staying revealed alprazolam, fentanyl and other controlled substances; tools and dies for pressing pills, and instructions for synthesizing fentanyl, prosecutors said.

Decaro pleaded guilty in June 2021 to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl analogues, the U.S. attorneys office said. Isaku pleaded guilty in August 2021 to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, fentanyl analogues.

Both are required to report to prison later this year.
WFO LAS VEGAS Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, August 9, 2022

_____

FLASH FLOOD WARNING

The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...

Southeastern Inyo County in south central California...

San Bernardino County in southern California...

West Central Clark County in southern Nevada...

* Until 445 PM PDT.

* At 145 PM PDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing

heavy rain across the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or

expected to begin shortly across southwestern Clark, northeastern

San Bernardino, and far southeastern Inyo counties.

HAZARD...Life-threatening flash flooding. Thunderstorms

producing flash flooding.

SOURCE...Radar.

IMPACT...Life-threatening flash flooding of low-water

crossings, creeks, normally dry washes and roads.

* Some locations that will experience flash flooding include...

Pahrump, Jean, Primm, Spring Mountains, Sandy Valley, Goodsprings,

Mountain Springs, Mountain Pass, Nipton And Ivanpah Roads, Lovell

Canyon Campground and Mt. Potosi.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood

deaths occur in vehicles.

Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
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A trailer truck carrying 50 migrants from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh trying to cross illegally into Hungary was stopped by the border police, on Monday, in Petea customs, two drivers together with their accomplice being detained for 24 hours, under the accusation of migrant smuggling, informs a press release of the Border Police on Tuesday.

"Border guards with the Territorial Service of the Satu Mare Border Police carried out on August 8 an extensive mission in the fight against illegal immigration. The action was completed last evening, around 23:00 hrs, when at the Petea Border checkpoint, two Romanian citizens (one 52 years old and the other 26 years old) showed up for customs formalities on the outbound with a trailer truck registered in Romania. The truck was loaded - according to the documents accompanying the cargo - with electrical household products that were to arrive in the United Kingdom. Based on the risk analysis, the border police carried out a thorough control of the means of transport, and discovered 50 foreign nationals in the cargo compartment, hidden among products," reads the release.

According to the cited source, the 50 citizens from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh tried to illegally cross the border from Romania into Hungary, with Austria as the final destination.

Two drivers of the truck, both Romanian citizens, are being investigated for migrant smuggling and have been detained for 24 hours. A third person, namely the man who proposed to the truck drivers to participate in migrant smuggling, also helping to their hiding among the electrical household products being transported, is also being investigated and detained for 24 hours, Agerpres.

Following the checks carried out at the headquarters of the STPF Satu Mare, the border police established that the persons found hidden are citizens of India (22 of them), Pakistan (10 persons) and Bangladesh (18 persons) and are between the ages of 22 and 58. Among them, seven are asylum seekers in Romania, and 31 have work permits in our country.

In the case, under the coordination of the Public Prosecutor's Office with to the Satu Mare Court, investigations are being carried out under the aspect of committing the crimes of illegal crossing of the state border and attempted illegal crossing of the state border, for the 50 foreign citizens, and migrant smuggling for the three Romanian citizens. The three were detained for 24 hours, with the necessary legal measures to be then taken by the prosecutors in the case.
Approximately 284,300 people, Romanian and foreign nationals, and over 68,000 means of transport underwent border checks at all of Romania's crossing points on Monday, on both the inbound and the outbound, the General Border Police Inspectorate (IGPF) reports.

There were 140,131 travelers on the inbound, including 11,667 Ukrainian citizens (by 8.70 percent fewer compared to the day before). The number of Ukrainians who crossed into Romania since the pre-war date of February 10 until Monday midnight is 1,862,715, the IGPF said.

As part of the specific activities at crossing points and the green border, the border police found 91 illegal acts (65 infractions and 26 contraventions) committed by both Romanian and foreign citizens. The value of the seized undeclared goods (which were to be smuggled into the country) amounts to approximately RON 85,500.

Fines worth over RON 8,000 were also issued.

21 foreign citizens who did not meet the legal requirements were denied entry to the country, and 58 Romanian citizens were also not allowed to leave the country for various legal reasons. AGERPRES
The Finance Ministry raised on Tuesday 150 million RON from banks in addition to the 5.074 billion RON borrowed on Monday, through two benchmark government bond issues, according to data published by the National Bank of Romania (BNR).

Thus, the FinMin raised 75 million RON in an additional issue to Monday's bidding session, when it borrowed over 1,026 million RON, through a benchmark bond issue with a 40-month residual maturity, at an average yield of 8.12 ppa. Also, the Finance Ministry borrowed an extra 75 million RON to the 4.047 billion RON raised on Monday, through a benchmark bond issue with a 115-month residual maturity, at an average yield of 8.11 ppa.

The banks submitted bids worth 235 million RON for one, and 150 million RON for the other.

The Finance Ministry has planned to borrow this August 5 billion RON from commercial banks, to which another 585 million RON could add through additional non-competitive bids related to the bond auctions.

The total amount of 5.585 billion RON is 1,335 million RON more than the one planned for July 2022 and will be used to refinance the public debt and the state budget deficit. AGERPRES
In a Twitter post on Tuesday, Romania's Foreign Minister Bogdan Aurescu condemned the military actions near the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in Ukraine.

"Strongly condemn the military actions of the Russian forces near the Zaporizhzhya NPP. Such reckless actions are irresponsible and carry risks for the whole Europe."

In a subsequent post, he mentioned the commemoration of the August 1945 dropping of atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. "This August we all remember Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings. We remain determined to advance world peace ideals together with all like-minded partners. Nuclear threats and irresponsible actions close to Nuclear Power Plants need to stop now!", Agerpres.

Ukraine reported heavy Russian shelling near the frontline on Tuesday, as both sides blamed one another for weekend strikes on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine, raising international concerns about a possible nuclear catastrophe.
Vasile Tarateanu was a prominent cultural personality of the Romanian community in Ukraine, which aspirations and natural rights he promoted, Foreign Minister Bogdan Aurescu says in a message on the death of the academician.

"I am deeply sad to learn of the passing on August 8, 2022, of author and academician Vasile Tarateanu, a prominent cultural personality of the Romanian community in Ukraine. It is news that equally grieves all those who, in Romania or in Ukraine , resonated with his lively and deep poetic spirit, with his fruitful efforts for the affirmation of Romanian spirituality, as well as with his tireless activity in the service of the Romanian community in Ukraine and the promotion of its aspirations and natural rights. In these difficult moments, I want to convey my full sympathy and my sincere condolences to the bereaved family."Tarateanu was a multifaceted personality - poet, publicist and translator, one of the main leaders of the Romanian community in Ukraine, chairman of the Eudoxiu Hurmuzachi Romanian Cultural Centre in Chernivtsi, a member of the Coordinating Committee of the National Council of Romanians in Ukraine, honorary member of the Romanian Academy. He was elected vice-president of the Cultural League for the Unity of Romanians Everywhere, the Steering Committee of the Congress of Romanian Spirituality."Dedicated to the Romanian language and culture and the Romanian community in Ukraine until his last breath, Tarateanu embodied the quintessence of the major events that marked the path of the generation of Romanian intellectuals that was formed in Chernivtsi in the 70s-80s of the last century. His professional and personal biography merged, for the most part, with the developments in the Romanian community in the Chernivtsi region."According to Aurescu, Tarateanu was also "a committed, strong and respected voice in support of the Romanians in Ukraine, initiator and supporter of countless projects aimed at preserving and developing the cultural and linguistic identity of the Romanians from the Chernivtsi region. As a state official of the Chernivtsi Regional Council, in 1992-1996 and 2001-2006, he fully dedicated himself to the effort to promote and ascertain the rights of the Romanian minority in Ukraine."***Born on September 27, 1945 in the village of Sinautii de Jos, Hliboca district, Tarateanu graduated from the Faculty of Letters of the National University in 1972. Between 1969 and 1981 he was a reporter for the regional newspaper "Zorile Bucovinei" of Chernivtsi, and between 1981 - 1991 senior editor at the editorial office of the Romanian-language broadcasts at Radio Kyiv. In 1990 - 1994 he managed the newspaper "Plai romanesc" of the Mihai Eminescu Society for Romanian Culture.Among the most important publications founded by him are "Arcusul" and "Curierul de Cernauti." He was a founding member of the Chernivtsi-based Mihai Eminescu Society for Romanian Culture (1989), which secretary he was in 1991-1992. He was also the founding member of the Alexandru cel Bun Publishing House of Chernivtsi (1994), chairman of the of the Casa Limbii Romane Cultural Foundation of Chernivtsi (2000).A member of the Ukraine's National Union of Writers, Moldova's Union of Writers and Romania's Union of Writers, he penned dozens of volumes of poetry, nonfiction, cultural monographs and albums.
The main ruling parties play a ping-pong with us and simulate the social dialogue, because if we go to talk to a ministry led by a PNL (National Liberal Party) minister, we are told that PSD (Social Democratic Party) does not want to give (the raise) and vice versa, the president of the National Union of Police and Contract Staff (SNPPC), Vasile Zelca, told AGERPRES on Tuesday.

"We start the protests at the Ministry of Finance, because the Ministry of Finance is the key in the application of anything that means public money for the public sector employees. That is, Law 153/2017 on the remuneration of state employees, Law 223 of 2015 on state military pensions and any calculation of increases, which, even if they are in the signature of the relevant minister, Mr. Bode, have their resource also from the Ministry of Finance. I have noticed that, unfortunately, lately, the two main ruling parties are playing a ping-pong, effectively simulating social dialogue. He invited us to the discussions, indeed, there is now a social dialogue, so to speak, with the necessary quotation marks, as against the government of sad memory, Citu. But if we go to a ministry that belongs to PSD, we are told that PNL does not want to give us. If we go to talk to a ministry in PNL, we are told that PSD does not want to give. We, since March, have caught a bit of this dirty game and we have asked the three ruling parties, namely PNL, PSD, UDMR (Hungarian Democrat Union of Romania), to accept a meeting at the level of chairpersons with us, to discuss with the cards on the table, to see who disagrees or why does not agree with the application of the law," Zelca pointed out.

He added that for about 8 months the Ciuca Government "crawls" to grant some increases that amount to somewhere between 130-140 RON (rd 26 - 28 euros) net in the pocket of each policeman.

"Unfortunately, we are in the middle of a political war between PSD and PNL, because you know that the two parties have shared the ministries of force, the ministries that give opinion on whatever means salary. Namely, PNL has the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Justice, and the PSD has the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Labor. I noticed that whenever we met, there is no money, no money. We also made protests in February, if you remember, at the Ministry of Finance. I have been talking to Minister Caciu ever since and we have been told "Sir, let's see how we will stay with the money in June - July". They boasted that the economy was moving. I see that nothing is moving," the union leader stressed.

Regarding Tuesday's protest, Zelca pointed out that he is waiting for an invitation to discussions from the Finance Minister to find out if there is a timetable for the application of Law 153 by the end of the year. At the same time, he believes that it is not education that is the main cause of corruption, but wage income.

Asked what is the average net salary of a policeman, the trade union leader indicated the value of 3,000 RON, which includes the bonuses.

"A junior policeman earns 2,000 RON (rd 405 euros) net, maximum 2,500 (rd 506 euros) RON if he/she works on weekends or at night. We have to see that the one who ensures my public peace of mind is paid a little more above the national minimum wage. It's a shame already," Zelca said.

Several dozen police unionists, together with those of the Federation of Unions of the National Administration of Penitentiaries (FSANP), protest on Tuesday, between 10:00 - 12:00, at the headquarters of the Ministry of Finance in Bucharest, and demand the application of the Framework Law on salaries, the granting of some bonuses provided by law, the updating and recalculation of state military pensions.

The SNPPC federation's representatives say that if they do not have a positive response from the Government, as soon as possible, they will legally extend the demonstrations at the national level, resorting to genuine protest actions.AGERPRES
The government is going to approve on Wednesday a draft law on the ratification of the loan agreement agreed with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) regarding the first programmatic financing for development policies for green and inclusive growth.

According to the projects' explanatory, based on the approval of the Government and the President of Romania, in Bucharest, on July 19, 2022, the Loan Agreement between Romania and the IBRD, in the amount of 600 million euros, and the Agreement on non-reimbursable financial assistance were signed between Romania and the IBRD, acting as the manager of the IBRD Fund for Innovative Solutions regarding Global Public Goods, worth 24.2 million US dollars related to the first programmatic financing for development policies for green and inclusive growth.

The Government will decide, also by decision, on the allocation from the Intervention Fund available to the Government, foreseen in the state budget for 2022, the amount of 9.5 million lei necessary for the emergency execution of some dredging operations of the Danube river and other specific works in order to remove the risk caused by the current critical hydrological situation.

At the same meeting, the budget for the implementation of Romania's School Programme in the 2022-2023 school year will be established, in the amount of 562,850,000 lei, Agerpres.

Through a memorandum, the Government will approve the completion of the negotiations and the signing of the Agreement between the Government of Romania and the Government of the Republic of North Macedonia regarding the strengthening of cooperation in the field of internal control and the prevention and fight against corruption.
A 30-year-old man wanted for allegedly killing a family member has surrendered in Italy, the General Inspectorate of the Romanian Police informed on Tuesday.

According to a Romanian Police statement released on Monday, a 30-year-old man, wanted internationally, surrendered in Italy.

He is the subject of a Iasi Court preventive arrest warrant, being investigated for committing the crime of murder against a family member, Agerpres.ro informs.

Italian authorities are starting the procedure for the implementation of the European arrest warrants, with a view to surrender, the Police mention.

The exchange of data with the Italian authorities was carried out by the police with the Criminal Investigation Service in Iasi, through the International Police Cooperation Center - SIRENE Bureau, and the SIRENE Bureau in Italy.
Non-refundable financing for energy infrastructure investment projects is available through the Modernization Fund, and the budget allocated for 2022 is 100 million euros, Minister of Energy Virgil Popescu said on Tuesday in a Facebook post.

"We invest in the development of the expansion and modernization of the electricity distribution network. Through the Modernization Fund we have non-refundable financing for energy infrastructure investment projects. Through these investments we aim to achieve the following objectives: kilometres of new or modernized electricity distribution network: 4,000; increasing the security of energy supply by reducing the number of interruptions; creating the necessary infrastructure for the development of new economic activities, as well as the development of the national energy infrastructure at European standards applicable in the field," wrote Virgil Popescu.

It will also be possible to finance investment projects aimed at the rational use of energy resources by reducing losses, minimizing the negative impact on the environment, reducing maintenance costs of distribution networks and creating the necessary technical conditions for the connection of electric charging stations, Agerpres.

Eligible applicants under the investment field 3.2 Energy infrastructure - Support for the expansion and refurbishment of the electricity distribution network, are: concessionaire electricity distribution operators defined in Law no. 123/2012 of electricity and natural gas, with subsequent amendments and additions, art. 3, item 70.

"The estimated public support from the Modernization Fund is 80 percent of the eligible expenses. The financing is granted in RON in the form of reimbursement of the expenses incurred, namely: the minimum value 5,000,000 euros without VAT, the maximum value 50,000,000 euros without VAT," the Minister of Energy, Virgil Popescu, further wrote on the social media page.
The Ministry of Finance is boosting businesses in Romania and proposing under a draft government decision to increase by one billion lei the budget of the state aid scheme 807/2014 for investment with a major impact on the economy.

The scheme budget increases from 6.38 billion lei to 7.38 billion lei.

June 15 - July 26, 2022, the Ministry of Finance held a session for the registration of requests for agreement to fund investment projects greater than 1 million euros. The session had a budget of at least 700 million lei, with the possibility of supplementing it, and aroused increased interest from investors, with 193 funding requests being submitted.

Funding was granted against a scoreboard by Government Ordinance 807/2014: the value of investment, the type of initial investment, the place where the investment will be made, the profitability of the turnover (in the case of active enterprises), the value of the subscribed and paid-up capital (in the case of newly established companies), Agerpres.

Following the completion of the ordering process based on score, investment projects of a total value of nearly 3.2 billion lei for which state aid of approximately 682.8 million lei is requested in areas such as the food industry, construction material, automotive parts, and pulp and paper manufacturing will be considered.
As many as 9,864 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 were recorded in the last 24 hours in Romania, up 5,175 from the previous day, with 32,203 RT-PCR and rapid antigenic tests performed, the Health Ministry informed on Tuesday.

Of the new cases, 1,996 were in re-infected patients, who tested positive more than 90 days after the first time they recovered from the disease.

Most of the newly confirmed COVID-19 cases in Romania since the previous reporting were recorded in Bucharest City - 1,319, and in the counties of Timis - 503, Cluj - 585, Constanta - 428.

The 14-day notification rate nationwide is 4.24 cases per 1,000 population.

The highest rates are in Bucharest City - 9.62, followed by the counties of Sibiu - 7.41, Ilfov - 7.28 and Brasov - 6.62.

As of Tuesday, 3,130,545 cases of people infected with the novel coronavirus were confirmed in Romania.

- Hospitalisations -

As many as 4,077 people with COVID-19, down 222 from the previous reporting, including 657 minors, are hospitalised in Romania at specialist care facilities.

Out of the total number of hospitalised patients, 295 patients, up 21, including four minors, are in intensive care.

Of the 295 patients admitted to ICU, 257 are unvaccinated against COVID-19.

- Deaths -

According to the ministry, 43 Romanians, 20 men and 23 women, infected with SARS-CoV-2 are reported dead in the last 24 hours.

Of the 43 deaths, 11 were in the age group 60-69 years, 14 in 70-79 age group and 18 in the age group over 80 years.

All deaths were in patients with comorbidities, and 11 were in vaccinated patients.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, 66,236 people diagnosed with the SARS-CoV-2 infection have died in Romania.AGERPRES
Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Marcel Ciolacu, the national leader of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) in the ruling coalition, said on Tuesday that there will most likely be a select parliamentary committee that will deal with justice legislation instead of Parliament's judiciary committees.

"The security laws have not arrived at Parliament; when they do, I will announce you. We are preparing justice legislation. I think that our approach will be a joint committee, both in the Chamber and in the Senate, so that procedure and transparency may work well, and we are waiting for an opinion from the Supreme Council of Magistrates (CSM). There will be a select committee that will have powers, so it will replace the existing judiciary committees both in the Senate and in the Chamber (...). I think it is necessary for Romania to get rid of the Co-operation and Verification Mechanism (CVM) and to join the Schengen area once and for all," Ciolacu said at the Parliament House.

He added that he, much like Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca, has the same objective, Romania getting rid of the CVM and there are encouraging signs. AGERPRES
An aircraft belonging to the Turkish Airlines company, which was flying on the Miami - Istanbul route, landed on Tuesday afternoon on the Bucharest-based Henri Coanda Airport, as one of the passengers had medical problems, the Bucharest Airports National Company announced (CNAB).

The plane landed at 2.58 pm and, immediately, the airport's medical crew and a SMURD crew got on board. Standard resuscitation was applied to the patient, but the passenger was later pronounced dead.

The Boeing 777 aircraft had 234 passengers on board.

According to the CNAB, the passengers will be disembarked, and they will be assisted by representatives of the airline and the handling agent, Agerpres.
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St. Louis County Councilwoman Lisa Clancy publicly fought for zoning measures favored by the marijuana industry at the same time that she privately helped a medical marijuana company apply for state licenses.

Records from two 2019 meetings of councils Public Improvements Committee, of which Clancy was not a member, show she was a vocal participant in both proceedings. Council members are allowed to attend and participate in any committee meeting, although they do not cast votes unless they are on the committee.

The meetings were on July 16 and Aug. 6, 2019. Clancy performed her marijuana work from late June to at least Aug. 7, 2019.

Clancy was paid about $4,500 by the Summer Compton Wells law firm in Frontenac for writing portions of applications that a company submitted to the state for a medical marijuana dispensary license.

Her decision not to disclose her marijuana-related work while she acted on pending legislation is being examined for possible conflicts of interest by the County Councils ethics committee.

According to minutes from the July 16, 2019, meeting, Clancy warned her colleagues that if they required larger buffer zones  the amount of distance between a marijuana location and churches, schools and daycare centers  the county would be at a competitive disadvantage and at risk of leaving revenue on the table.

The marijuana industry generally prefers smaller buffer zones, giving operators more options for finding locations for their businesses. Applicants are required to list a specific address on their applications.

She also told the committee that her office had taken part in work groups that another county body  the Planning Commission  held to help create the ordinance, the minutes show.

Toward the end of the meeting, Clancy stressed there was some urgency in taking action on the ordinance.

That original draft ordinance from the county planning commission called for 300-foot buffers. The public improvements committee wanted 1,000-foot buffers and sent the draft back to planners.

By the next committee meeting, on Aug. 6, the buffers had been set by planners at 500 feet in a new draft ordinance. Clancy highlighted the fact that the county was within its rights to adopt smaller buffers than the 1,000 feet set by the state.

Then, later in that meeting, she questioned the propriety of the committee sending a draft ordinance back to planners with a specific recommendation, such as 1,000-foot buffers.

So youre saying that this is something that happens time to time? Clancy asked county planner Jacob Trimble.

After Trimble replied that it was, Clancy asked, Would you say its common for it to happen?

Clancy did not disclose her marijuana work during the meeting, the minutes and a video show.

The County Council gave final approval to the marijuana zoning ordinance, with 1,000-foot buffers, on Sept. 14, 2019. Clancy voted against it, saying the larger buffer zones were a hardship on patients and marijuana companies.

Text messages and email released

Clancys work for the marijuana industry came to light when Shelby Partridge, a former project manager at the law firm, released text messages and an email to the Post-Dispatch. That information also was submitted to the councils ethics committee.

Texts between Clancy and Partridge show that after the Aug. 6 committee meeting, Clancy texted Partridge to tell her about the committees rejection of the 500-foot compromise.

This is a major setback, Clancy wrote.

In a text exchange the next day, when Partridge asked again about the committees action, Clancy said, Everything fell apart last night.

The company Clancy worked on behalf of, VG-S. Lindbergh LLC, did obtain a state license for a dispensary in unincorporated south St. Louis County.

Several months after the County Council adopted the marijuana zoning ordinance, on Jan. 1, 2020, lobbyist Steve Tilley contributed $500 to Clancys political organization.

Tilley, a former Missouri House Speaker and close ally of Gov. Mike Parson, is the lobbyist for Missouri Medical Cannabis Trade Association (MoCann), the states largest medical marijuana trade group.

When asked in a telephone interview why she did not ask the County Counselors office for an opinion, Clancy said the question of her work being a conflict of interest was a personal matter.

In a statement sent after the interview, Clancy said, To be clear: I have no financial interest in the medical marijuana industry. My consulting work was for a law firm only, and I was paid by the firm. I had no interactions whatsoever with anyone from the medical marijuana industry.

She also said that she welcomed a review of the matter and that she has followed all appropriate ethical and legal rules.

The statement said questions about her marijuana work are being driven simply by political motives designed to harm the integrity of the county administration during a volatile political season.
ST. LOUIS  Former Alderman John Collins-Muhammad is scheduled to plead guilty Aug. 23 in U.S. District Court in a bribery case against him and two other ex-aldermen, according to court records and Collins-Muhammad's lawyer.

Collins-Muhammad, who pleaded not guilty in June, said last month that he had reached a plea agreement with prosecutors and waived pretrial motions as a condition of the deal.

His attorney, Joseph Flees, confirmed the guilty plea hearing but declined further comment.

Collins-Muhammad, former Alderman Jeffrey Boyd and former Board of Alderman President Lewis Reed were indicted in June on charges of accepting cash bribes in exchange for helping push legislation granting his businesses tax abatements. Boyd also intervened to help a businessman purchase real estate from the St. Louis Land Reutilization Authority.

Boyd and Reed pleaded not guilty in the case. Their trial is set for Sept. 12 before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark.
ST. CLAIR COUNTY  A Metro East police officer is facing charges after being accused of shooting three people while off duty in Belleville.

Khalind Hayes, 27, of Fairview Heights, pleaded not guilty on Friday after being charged by the St. Clair County States Attorneys Office with three counts of aggravated battery with a firearm. Each of the charges is a Class X felony with a minimum of six years of prison time.

Hayes, an officer with the Madison Police Department, is on unpaid administrative leave, said Madison police Chief Jeffrey Bridick. Hayes was sworn in as a patrolman in January 2021, records show.

On July 31, Hayes and another man got into a verbal argument that started at a local business and turned violent, said Belleville Police. A physical brawl broke out once the man and some of his associates confronted Hayes and others while the two groups were outside after the business closed.

Hayes then brandished a handgun after the fight was over and began shooting, police say.

Police came to the scene shortly before 2 a.m., finding a man shot in the buttocks and two women with graze wounds, one to the abdomen and one to the leg, police say. All three were hospitalized but later released.

Hayes turned himself in to authorities soon after the shootings, and police said they are not seeking any more suspects in the investigation.

Hayes has prior traffic violations but no criminal charges.

Hayes attorney did not immediately return a request for comment on Tuesday.
ST. LOUIS  Groups representing St. Louis police officers filed suit this week to block one of Mayor Tishaura O. Jones signature efforts to reform law enforcement in the city.

The lawsuit targeted a bill Jones signed last week creating a new, civilian-run agency to investigate nearly all allegations of police misconduct and mete out discipline, tasks traditionally handled by the police department itself.

Jones had trumpeted the measure as a vital step toward restoring trust in a department hurt by allegations of discrimination and misconduct. But police groups said the change ignored progress made under new leadership in recent years, left good officers vulnerable to people who are anti-police and ran roughshod over state law restricting civilian oversight powers.

Violating Missouri state law does not promote the goals of fairness, equity and transparency that the ordinance purportedly seeks, the lawsuit said.

The suit marks the latest obstacle the mayor has faced trying to enact a progressive public safety agenda in a recalcitrant city. The Board of Aldermen fought her plan to cut vacant positions in the police department last year and won. A push to close the citys Medium Security Institution jail, known as the workhouse, folded amid security breaches at the newer downtown jail. Pushback from police unions on independent oversight was inevitable, said Mike Jones, a longtime city and county official.

You should be about as surprised by that as you are about the sun coming up in the east, he said.

Mayoral spokesman Nick Desideri declined comment on the suit, but said the mayor thinks more police accountability will build trust and ultimately make the city safer. He cast her efforts as a long-awaited response to the killing of 18-year-old Michael Brown, who was Black, by a white police officer in Ferguson eight years ago Tuesday.

Activists have been pushing for increased civilian oversight of police for decades, and they got another boost in the wake of Browns death and the resulting unrest. The Ferguson Commission, appointed by the governor to address racial injustices highlighted by protests, called for police review boards in cities and counties across the state, and St. Louis did just that in 2015.

But it didnt go as planned. In its first four years, board members said they reviewed just 10% of internal affairs investigations, and none of the departments investigations into fatal police shootings. Aldermen had given the board subpoena power in 2018, but board members said they couldnt find a way to legally use it.

By 2021, when the department published those struggles in a report, leaders were moving toward an overhaul. Jones, shortly after her election, closed a loophole keeping some misconduct complaints from the board. And Alderman Shameem Clark-Hubbard, who represents neighborhoods on the citys northwest side, began work on new legislation.

Clark-Hubbard unveiled the finished product earlier this summer, calling it a badly needed step toward strengthening public confidence in city police.

We hope we never have to use it, she said, but we know that it is necessary.

Most aldermen agreed, and the legislation sailed through committee. But it drew uniform opposition from the major groups representing police officers and mid-level brass, including the Ethical Society of Police, which advocates for Black officers and endorsed Jones for mayor.

They complained that the new bill would allow anonymous complaints, keep people with police experience from running investigations and have progressive Circuit Attorney Kim Gardners office take the lead on use-of-force issues.

Gardner is not popular with officers. She has excluded officers she deemed untrustworthy from seeking charges in the city and once accused a police union of a racist conspiracy to stop her from doing her job.

Giving Gardner a role in investigating police shootings, wrote Sgt. Mickey Owens, president of the police association for mid-level brass, would be downright frightening.

Brian Millikan, an attorney for the St. Louis Police Officers Association, said the departments problems with recruitment and retention would only get worse without relief for his clients.

They want a fair process that complies with state law, he said. Thats the bottom line.

The unions delivered the lawsuit to the city late Monday.
JEFFERSON CITY  Missourians will vote Nov. 8 on full legalization of marijuana.

Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, a Republican, announced Tuesday that the campaign to place a legalization question on the ballot indeed collected enough signatures for voters to weigh in this fall, despite unofficial reports from counties last month indicating the effort would fall short.

The announcement sets Missouri up to become the 20th state to fully legalize cannabis, if a majority of voters approve  a change that would generate millions of dollars for state coffers while automatically expunging the records of nonviolent marijuana offenders.

Missourians are more than ready to end the senseless and costly prohibition of marijuana, John Payne, campaign manager for Legal Missouri 2022, said in a statement celebrating the question making the ballot.

Even though public support for marijuana legalization has grown in recent years, Legal Missouri still might have to contend with opposition  both from traditional opponents of drug legalization and from activists who oppose Legal Missouri 2022 despite supporting legalization.

Detractors have said the measures expungement provisions fall short and have blasted provisions in the 38-page plan that give existing medical marijuana companies the first shot at full licenses.

Most Missourians that signed that, if they knew exactly what was in this initiative petition ... they probably wouldve thought twice about signing it, said Rep. Ron Hicks, R-Defiance, who sponsored competing legalization legislation this year in the Missouri House.

Nichole Dawsey, executive director of the Olivette-based Prevent+Ed, formerly the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, said the group objects to the commercialization of the cannabis industry.

As weve seen with other substances like alcohol and nicotine, commercially profiting from addictive substances provides really powerful incentives for the industry to expand markets to vulnerable populations, including kids, she said.

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, Dawsey said Prevent+Ed cannot and will not be lobbying or telling people how to vote.

I do think it is fair to say that there are going to be local, community groups, grassroots organizations, that are going to come out adamantly opposed to this, Dawsey said.

The question will appear on the ballot as Amendment 3 and will ask voters if adults 21 and older should be allowed to purchase, possess and consume marijuana for personal use.

If approved, existing medical marijuana businesses would be able to request to convert their licenses to include recreational use on Dec. 8.

The state would have up to 60 days to approve the new licenses. If approved by voters, Payne said he expects sales would start sometime early next year.

Missouri would tax sales at 6%, and local governments could add another 3% levy. Recreational sales could generate at least $40.8 million each year for state coffers, not factoring in program costs, and local governments could raise $14 million annually, according to a budget estimate.

People 21 or older would be able to cultivate up to 18 marijuana plants with a state registration card.

Missouri would be required to start accepting applications for such cards 60 days after Dec. 8, when the amendment to the state constitution would take effect.

Established medical marijuana businesses have financially backed the Legal Missouri campaign, which had spent nearly $6 million through June.

While medical marijuana companies may convert their licenses to full recreational ones, microlicenses would be available in the programs first days to smaller operators and individuals and groups negatively affected by marijuana prohibition, Payne has said.

All new licenses for the first 548 days will be microlicenses, Payne has said.

Some lawmakers pushed a competing marijuana legalization bill this year, but it fizzled in May.

Hicks legislation, called the Cannabis Freedom Act, originally contained no limits on marijuana business licenses  a key difference between it and Legal Missouri, which maintains the states ability to limit licenses.

A majority of Americans first voiced support for marijuana legalization in 2013, according to Gallup polling, with approval continuing to rise.

Public support for legalization stood at 68% in a Gallup poll released in November, tying a record set the year before.

Eighty-three percent of Democrats surveyed last year supported marijuana legalization, as well as 71% of independents. Half of Republicans backed legalization, while 49% opposed it.
ST. LOUIS  Surrounded by dirt-covered floors and piles of personal belongings, tenants at Loop Lofts in the West End on Monday labored in the oppressive afternoon heat to move their belongings out by midnight.

First-floor residents of the lofts Building B received a notice on their doors Friday that said recent flooding damage will require large sections of drywall be removed, making the entire first floor uninhabitable. Residents were given until Monday night to move out. The company said it would terminate those tenants leases and return their security deposits.

The buildings decision to push renters out with 72 hours notice  48 of which came on the weekend  has left residents scrambling and questioning the legality of such an abrupt move. INB National Association, which purchased the building at 1019 North Skinker Boulevard from Loop Lofts Apartments last month, did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

One first-floor resident, Katey Wolcott, said that prior to Fridays notice, all first-floor tenants received an email from the property management company with a 30-day moveout notice, requesting a signature from each tenant by last Friday. Only a few signed the document, Wolcott said, and by Friday, the lead time had been amended down to just three days.

Unlike her neighbors, Wolcott said she and her family are staying put.

As her husband, Mark Williams, made lunch and their 2-year-old daughter Ashelyn Williams wandered about on Monday, Wolcott explained her stance.

Wolcott said she spoke with a lawyer who told her their lease agreement would be key in determining if the short notice is legal.

The hard part is that we do not have a copy of our lease, Walcott said. We lost our hard copy in the flood, and because a new owner owns the building, the original owner gave all of that documentation to the new owner. And the new owner has not posted it yet.

Online records show INB National Association purchased the building on July 21 from Loop Lofts Apartments LLC for $15.9 million days before historic rain caused flash flooding across the region.

St. Louis officials posted violation notices on the building because of the structures water damage, including to the roof, said city spokesman Nick Dunne. But the city did not condemn the building and could not immediately provide a specific list of violation notices issued.

Dunne said the city cannot intervene with the landlords decision to have tenants vacate the building.

Madison Gaydos, whos lived in the building for just under a year, was moving her things onto a U-Haul Monday afternoon. She said she hasnt lived in the unit since it flooded, and communication from the landlord about her options to stay or leave was confusing and at times, she felt, contradictive.

Shes been couch surfing and plans to store her belongings in a friends basement until she can get her security deposit back, which she needs in order to get into a new apartment.

I feel like they just kind of left us to sink and theyre just trying to cover themselves, which I get, she said. You know they bought this place and five days later it floods and this was their investment and they are out of money, but that doesnt make it OK to screw everyone (over).

One of Gaydos neighbors across the hall, Alona Thompson, was in her apartment working on moving her belongings to a storage unit and said she would probably try to find a shelter. She said while the company may have put a notice on her door, she isnt living in the unit, so she did not see it.

Thompson said she found out about the notice because her mom caught the end of a 5 p.m. newscast on Sunday and her girlfriend in California was able to find the story about the moveout notice online.

She has lived in the unit for three years and was on vacation proposing to her girlfriend in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, when the storm flooded her apartment. She said she lost belongings including all of her area rugs, a couch, her sound system and a computer.

I know some people are staying, but I cant live in this, she said, motioning to her apartment in disarray, covered in debris from the flood water. I just need the stress relief for me, and to move my things from here.

Editors note: This story has been updated to correct the neighborhood where the Loop Lofts are located.
MOSCOW (AP)  A Russian rocket on Tuesday successfully launched an Iranian satellite into orbit.

The Soyuz rocket lifted off as scheduled at 8:52 a.m. Moscow time (0552 GMT) Tuesday from the Russia-leased Baikonur launch facility in Kazakhstan.

About nine minutes after the launch, it placed the Iranian satellite called Khayyam into orbit. It's named after Omar Khayyam, a Persian scientist who lived in the 11th and 12th centuries.

Iran has said the satellite fitted with high-resolution camera will be used for environmental monitoring and will remain fully under its control.

Tehran said no other country will have access to information it gathers and it would be used for civilian purposes only, but there have been allegations that Russia may use it for surveillance of Ukraine amid its military action there.

If it operates successfully, the satellite would give Iran the ability to monitor its archenemy Israel and other countries in the Middle East.

Yuri Borisov, head of Russia's state space corporation Roscosmos, hailed the launch as an important landmark" in cooperation between Moscow and Tehran.

Iranian state television aired footage of the launch live, noting that the countrys telecommunications minister attended the liftoff in Kazakhstan. Tehran said the satellite will help improve productivity in the agriculture sector, survey water resources, manage natural disasters, confront deforestation and monitor border areas.

Citing Irans civilian space agency, state television said the satellite would provide high-resolution surveillance images with a one-meter-per-pixel definition. Western civilian satellites offer around half-a-meter per pixel, while U.S. spy satellites are believed to have even-greater definition.

Iran has both a civilian and military space program, which the U.S. fears could be used to advance its ballistic missile program. However, Iran has seen a series of mishaps and failed satellite launches over recent years.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  The U.S. deputy secretary of state said Monday the prime minister of the Solomon Islands missed an important opportunity by failing to attend a memorial service to mark the anniversary of a key World War II battle, amid concerns the South Pacific island nation is building closer ties with China.

Wendy Sherman and U.S. Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy were among dignitaries who attended a dawn service near the capital of Honiara on Sunday to commemorate the Battle of Guadalcanal.

Shermans father, Marine Mal Sherman, and Kennedys father, the late President John F. Kennedy, almost died in fighting on the Solomons. Kennedy had been the commander of a patrol torpedo boat that was rammed and sunk by a Japanese destroyer. Sherman was wounded during the Guadalcanal campaign, which was the Japanese armys first defeat of WWII.

Local media reported that Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, who signed a security pact with China this year, appeared to have snubbed the ceremony, a claim his office later denied.

Sherman declined to say whether she considered the prime ministers absence a snub. She said Sogavare will have to answer to his own citizens about why he made the choice that he did, in an apparent reference to the next election.

I said to the prime minister directly that I was so sorry that obviously his schedule did not allow him to come because he missed an important opportunity, Sherman told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

This was a place where international leaders gathered to say that the work with Solomon Islanders, at the time of World War II, was decisive in victory, in ensuring freedom and democracy. And so I really felt sorry for the prime minister because I think he missed an important opportunity, she added.

Sogavare denied a snub, telling the Solomons Star News newspaper in a statement that the government was well represented at all events over three days marking the anniversary at ministerial levels.

The statement said newspaper claims of a snub were misleading and lacked understanding of protocols applied at such events.

The pact with China has raised fears of a Chinese naval base being established within 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) of Australias northeast coast. A Chinese military presence in the Solomons would put it not only on the doorstep of Australia and New Zealand but also in close proximity to Guam, the U.S. territory that hosts major military bases.

Both the Solomons and China have denied their pact will lead to a Chinese military foothold in the South Pacific.

Sherman said Sogavare had repeated the assurance during her recent visit that there would be no Chinese base.

This is a situation where we will all watch very carefully to see what happens here. It is quite critical, Sherman said.

In April, a U.S. delegation to Honiara led by Kurt Campbell, the National Security Council Indo-Pacific coordinator, and Daniel Kritenbrink, the assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, warned that the United States would take unspecified action against the Solomons should the agreement with China pose a threat to U.S. or allied interests.

Sogavare accused the U.S. and Australia of threatening and disrespectful behavior.

Chinas growing influence in the Pacific has led the United States to commit to reopening an embassy in Honiara that it closed in 1993. Washington has also committed to opening embassies in Tonga and Kiribati, a Micronesian state that, like the Solomons, recently switched its allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing.

A Solomons ceremony on Monday, a day after the commemoration that Sherman and Kennedy attended, was briefly interrupted when an assailant armed with a pair of scissors attacked a Japanese sailor.

Radio New Zealand reported that the victim was part of a Japanese navy media team and was stabbed in the neck, receiving minor injuries.

The report quoted medics as saying the sailor required stitches but was doing well. Bloody Ridge community chief Wesley Ramo said the suspect was from a neighboring community and was under the influence and mentally unstable.

Also attending the ceremony were Makoto Oniki, Japans state minister of defense, and Peeni Henare, New Zealands defense minister.

The suspect reportedly tackled the sailor to the ground during the attack before locals and U.S. military personnel stepped in and detained him. Police then took him away. The ceremony resumed after a short break.
CONCORD, N.H. (AP)  A jury on Tuesday acquitted a commercial truck driver of causing the deaths of seven motorcyclists in a horrific head-on collision in northern New Hampshire that exposed fatal flaws in the processing of license revocations across states.

Volodymyr Zhukovskyy, 26, of West Springfield, Massachusetts, was found innocent on seven counts of manslaughter, seven counts of negligent homicide and one count of reckless conduct in connection with the June 21, 2019, crash in Randolph. Jailed since the crash, he appeared to wipe away tears as the verdict was read and briefly raised his index finger skyward before leaving the courtroom.

Jurors deliberated for less than three hours after a two-week trial during which prosecutors argued that Zhukovskyy  who had taken heroin, fentanyl and cocaine earlier on the day of the crash  repeatedly swerved back and forth before the collision and told police he caused it. But a judge dismissed eight charges related to whether he was impaired, and his attorneys blamed the lead biker, Albert Woody Mazza Jr., saying he was drunk and not looking where he was going when he lost control of his motorcycle and slid in front of Zhukovskyys truck.

Our hearts go out to the victims and their families. Our trial team did an excellent job and we firmly believe that the State proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt," New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella said in a statement.

Zhukovskyys family, some of whom attended the trial, said in a statement they were grateful to God, the court and the defense attorneys for an honest and fair trial.

Our family expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends affected by this tragedy," the family said, describing him as a very honest and kind man. He would never have done anything to hurt anyone.

Zhukovskyy, who was born in Ukraine, remained jailed as of late Tuesday afternoon. It is unclear when he might be released. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued an immigration detainer on him after the crash and that was executed following the verdict, said Ben Champagne, the superintendent at the Coos County Department of Corrections.

ICE said in a statement that Zhukovskyy has been served a notice to appear before an immigration judge and will remain in ICE custody pending the outcome of that appearance. It did not say where he is being held.

All seven motorcyclists killed were members of the Jarheads Motorcycle Club. After the verdict, a member of the Marine group reached through Facebook declined to comment. Mazza's father, also named Albert, said he was stunned.

Killing seven people and he gets off. That is unbelievable, said Mazza. He described his son as a good man who devoted much of his time to charity, and said it was wrong to pin blame on him.

It doesnt make much sense," he said. "There are seven people dead. There are seven families affected. It's strange that he didnt get something.

The motorcyclists who died were from New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island and ranged in age from 42 to 62. They were part of a larger group that had just left a motel along U.S. Route 2 in Randolph.

Killed were Mazza, of Lee, New Hampshire; Edward and Jo-Ann Corr, a couple from Lakeville, Massachusetts; Michael Ferazzi, of Contoocook, New Hampshire; Desma Oakes, of Concord, New Hampshire; Daniel Pereira, of Riverside, Rhode Island; and Aaron Perry, of Farmington, New Hampshire.

In closing statements Tuesday morning, the two sides raised questions about who was more all over the place: the trucker accused of swerving back and forth across the road or the eyewitnesses accused of contradicting each other.

Those witnesses were all over the place about what they recalled and what they claimed to have seen, said defense attorney Jay Duguay.

Duguay also accused prosecutors of ignoring that their own accident reconstruction unit contradicted their theory that Zhukovskyy crossed into the oncoming lane. An expert hired by the defense, meanwhile, testified that the crash happened on the center line of the road and would have occurred even if the truck was in the middle of its lane because Mazzas motorcycle was heading in that direction.

From the beginning of this investigation, the state had made up their mind about what had happened, evidence be damned, said Duguay, who also highlighted inconsistencies between witness accounts or when witnesses contradicted themselves.

In particular, Duguay suggested that the bikers shaded their accounts to protect Mazza and the club. Prosecutor Scott Chase acknowledged some inconsistencies, but asked jurors to remember the circumstances.

People were covering the dead, trying to save the barely living, comforting the dying. This wasnt story time, he said. They were up here talking about some of the most unimaginable chaos, trauma, death and carnage that we can even imagine three years later. They were talking about hell broke open.

Witnesses were consistent, he argued, in describing the truck as weaving back and forth before the crash. That behavior continued until he killed people, Chase said.

Thats what stopped him. Its not that he made some responsible decision to start paying attention or do the right thing, he said. The only thing that stopped him was an embankment after he tore through a group of motorcycles.

Chase called the attempt to blame Mazza a fanciful story and frivolous distraction, while reminding jurors that Zhukovskyy, who didnt testify at trial, told investigators Obviously, I caused the crash.

He was crystal clear from the very beginning that he caused this crash, Chase said. That is what he said, because that is what happened.

Zhukovskyys commercial driving license should have been revoked in Massachusetts at the time of the crash because of a drunken driving arrest in Connecticut about two months earlier.

Connecticut officials alerted the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, but Zhukovskyy's license wasnt suspended due to a backlog of out-of-state notifications about driving offenses. In a review, federal investigators found similar backlog problems in Rhode Island, New Hampshire and at least six other jurisdictions.

Associated Press Writers Michael Casey and Kathy McCormack contributed to this report.
Kansas City Star. August 3, 2022.

Editorial: Missouri Republicans to Eric Greitens: Go away. Again. And stay away forever

Eric Greitens thought Missouri GOP voters had short memories.

He imagined they would welcome him when he came roaring back with guns blazing  literally  in a bid for U.S. Senate just four years after he left the governors mansion in disgrace.

Tuesday night, his Republican challenger Eric Schmitt bested him easily. So did U.S. Rep. Vicky Hartzler. Greitens came in third  abject humiliation for a candidate with such huge name recognition.

Of course, he never should have wasted primary voters time, or his donors money, in the first place. He abruptly exited Jefferson City in 2018 under multiple clouds. He was accused of campaign finance violations (and paid a fine and signed a consent decree with the Missouri Ethics Commission to settle  an admission hed misreported contributions). His former hairdresser credibly alleged he tied her up in his basement and forced himself on her sexually. And since his resignation, his ex-wife has testified under oath that he physically assaulted her and their children.

He enjoyed no last-minute boost from Donald Trumps clownish non-endorsement of ERIC Monday evening, transparently designed for Trump to claim kingmaker status whether Schmitt or Greitens prevailed.

Perhaps if Greitens approach in this race had begun with a modicum of contrition  a humanizing apology for embarrassing his state on a national stage  he could have made a plea for redemption.

Nope. Instead, voters got the same arrogant, violently threatening persona theyd come to know before, amped up even further. A commercial where he and a squadron of shock troops brandished rifles to go RINO hunting drew scorn and horror far outside Missouris borders.

Eric Greitens has shown his state no traces of modesty or repentance. Theres little reason to think he wont be back, reaching for yet another office in the future. Heres to hoping nobody ever throws dollars away filling his campaign coffers again.

St. Louis Post-Dispatch. August 8, 2022.

Editorial: Republicans brave the risks to support same-sex marital rights

It took guts, perhaps along with a careful look at polling results, for 47 House Republicans to join their Democratic colleagues in approving a bill late last month to codify interstate recognition of same-sex marriages. Rep. Ann Wagner was the sole Missouri Republican to support it. In these hyper-partisan times, any such vote risks putting Republicans on a target list for removal for veering even slightly from strict conservative orthodoxy.

The Respect for Marriage Act, which faces a difficult but not insurmountable climb in the Senate, was necessary only because of the Supreme Courts reversal of abortion rights and a hint by conservative justices that same-sex marital rights could be next. The only way to stave off such a reversal is for Congress to codify it in law  as Democrats should have done long ago for abortion rights when they controlled both houses.

For Republican Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, voting for same-sex marital rights probably wasnt a heavy lift, given projections of her reelection defeat. Her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, already has publicly supported same-sex marital rights, and Liz Cheneys sister is a married lesbian.

For other Republicans, the risks were more substantial. The woman who ousted Cheney from the No. 3 GOP leadership post, Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, also supported the bill, as did the National Republican Campaign Committee chairman, Rep. Tom Emmer of Minnesota, and House Freedom Caucus chairman Rep. Scott Perry of Pennsylvania.

The rest of the arch-conservative Freedom Caucus had urged members to vote against the bill, denouncing it as part of an all-out campaign by the radical Left to attack Americas traditional values and sacred institutions. This bill is both unnecessary and undermines the recognition of marriage between only one man and one woman.

Perry countered that my vote affirmed my long-held belief that Americans who enter into legal agreements deserve to live their lives without the threat that our federal government will dissolve what theyve built, he told the York, Pennsylvania, Daily Record.

This marks one of those rare moments when some brave Republicans are choosing to stand on principle instead of blindly following the GOP pack. A Gallup poll in June found that a record 70% of respondents support same-sex marriage, including 55% of Republicans.

In the Senate so far, only a few Republicans have signaled a willingness to support the bill, and skeptics are lashing out. Despite the enormous weight the gay community carries in urban parts of Florida, Sen. Marco Rubio denounced it as a stupid waste of time.

Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley plans to vote no. But outgoing Sen. Roy Blunt remains undecided, telling CNN: I dont have any problem with same-sex marriage, but Im not sure. I want to look at the legislation. Hes had more than enough time. And given that hes leaving after this term, what does Blunt have to lose?

St. Joseph News Press. August 8, 2022.

Editorial: A bridge too far for legal gun owners

The whole gun debate can be annoyingly shrill, absolutist and self-righteous. Both sides are known to generate some eye rolls from the general public, many of whom just want the violence to stop but would rather not trample on the rights of legal, law-abiding gun owners.

Maybe a way forward would be to put county sheriffs in charge of all firearms laws. Sheriffs are elected, so theyre accountable to the people. They understand guns, both their potential to protect and their capability to generate great harm. They know that training and responsibility are essential.

Across the state, sheriffs offices effectively handle the application and permitting of conceal carry permits for eligible Missourians.

Local law enforcement seems to have a certain practicality with guns that the chattering class sometimes lacks. They know that training is good and the filing of paperwork is necessary, but they also seem to know when enough is enough.

Recently, FBI Director Christopher Wray has expressed a desire to conduct audits of concealed weapons records in Missouri. Nothing major, just a little looksie to make sure there is no misuse of the system.

Yeah, right. Why dont you take a look in peoples houses and medicine cabinets while youre at it? It doesnt sound like an abuse of the Fourth Amendment.

Actually, the sharing of conceal carry records is a violation of Missouri law, which specifies that conceal carry endorsements or permits are considered personal protected information. Its probably also a violation of Missouris Second Amendment Protection Act, a law that puts limits on sharing firearms information with federal authorities or databases.

SAPA, as its known, contains some overreach that hinders the ability of law enforcement at the local level, but bear in mind its requests like this from the FBI or Justice Department that sparks overreach as a response to the overreach.

Local sheriffs, including Buchanan Countys Bill Puett, are right to balk at this unreasonable and unnecessary request. Its absurd to think that violent felons, traffickers and drug kingpins, the kinds of people the FBI ought to worry about, will mosey over to your local sheriffs office to fill out a CCW application.

END
Residents of Building B of the Loop Lofts apartments have had two rude awakenings in the past two weeks. The first came when flood waters inundated their West End apartments. The second came when the apartments new owners gave residents 72 hours to get out  almost as if the flood disaster was an event to exploit for the advancement of a preexisting corporate goal.

Either way, Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitts office is looking into how the evictions were handled  a welcome change for a Republican U.S. Senate candidate who prioritized taking China to court and visiting the Texas-Mexico border over helping Missourians stay in their homes.

Theres no question that Loop Lofts tenants needed help after the flooding two weeks ago inundated their apartments and destroyed much of their belongings. Even so, the city has not issued a condemnation notice, so its not clear what the new owners legal basis was for ordering an eviction on such short notice without a court order.

Schmitts website outlining tenant and landlord rights clearly states that a landlord may not evict a tenant without a court order, and such an eviction may only occur if the tenant violates the lease terms, damages the property, fails to pay rent or uses the property for illegal purposes. Tenants are supposed to have an opportunity to challenge the landlord in court before any eviction occurs.

We have received a consumer complaint on this issue, and have reached out to the business to attempt mediation as is typical for consumer complaints, Schmitts spokesperson, Chris Nuelle, told KSDK (Channel 5).

Tenants also are supposed to receive written notice whenever ownership of the property changes hands. As the Post-Dispatchs Dana Rieck reported, INB National Association purchased the property on July 21, days before heavy rains prompted widespread flooding around the region. Its not clear whether tenants received notice of the ownership change, but they certainly became aware of it when the company coldly told them it was terminating their leases with 72 to hours to vacate.

At least one resident was unable to locate her lease to verify the terms because her copy was destroyed in the flood and the management wasnt responding to calls. State law does have provisions allowing for evacuations for health and safety reasons, but thats a far cry from telling tenants that their leases are being canceled altogether.

This is hardly the first time tenants appear to have been kicked when theyre down and probably wont be the last, as the Post-Dispatchs Jesse Bogan has documented numerous times in the past decade. But at a time when everyone is scrambling to dig out from the mucky mess of these floods, landlords who seem to lack even an ounce of compassion for their tenants deserve all the weight Schmitts office can bring to make them back off.
The relatively new Chinese space program is expected to become dominant by the 2030s. The most obvious aspect of this is space stations. There are only two in orbit. The ISS (International Space Station) is the largest (419 tons) occupied (usually by a crew of six), the longest in orbit (over 23 years) and the longest occupied (21 years). The ISS was initially expected to have a useful (occupied) life of fifteen years. The ISS was not completed until 2011. The longer it was up there the more space station tech was developed. That led to extensions to the useful life. Until recently the ISS was to be used until 2028 but it is proposed to extend that to 2030. Without any new government proposals for a new space station, the only one up there after 2030 would be the Chinese Tiangong 3, which has been occupied since 2021 and will be completed in 2022 as a 66-ton unit with a useful life of 15 years. Tiangong 3 was designed to easily be doubled in size and extend useful life to 30 years.

China's new space station could be built so quickly because space tech has advanced over the years. For that reason, there are several proposals by Western firms to finance, build and operate commercial space stations. This development is no surprise to veteran space program engineers and administrators. Most of these new developments go unnoticed by the public because it is kind of boring tech stuff. One exception was commercial firm SpaceX with its revolutionary SLV (Satellite Launch Vehicle) tech which greatly reduced the cost of putting anything into orbit. The Chinese didnt use SpaceX tech to build their new space station.

The ISS cost about $150 billion to build and operate so far. The Tiangong 3 is expected to cost much less (as in over 50 percent less) because it's now cheaper to build and launch satellite components and China plans to include lots of space for profitable science experiments. The large number of such experiments carried out in the ISS demonstrated that there is a market for this and thats the motivation behind commercial space stations, especially those using SpaceX SLV tech and similar new tech developed by SpaceX and a number of other firms. Space stations no longer have to be government funded science experiments. Few noticed how much the costs were coming down at the same time income sources increased. Current plans are to have the first commercial space station operational before ISS retires in 2030. More commercial stations will follow.

China seemed to sense this trend when, without much fanfare, they put their first space station into orbit in 2011, This was the eight-ton Tiangong 1. It lasted two years and provided practical experience for the construction and launch of the 8.6-ton Tiangong 2 in late 2016. This one was built to last longer and in early 2017 a Chinese cargo vehicle made an automated docking with the Tiangong 2. This was a major step for the Chinese, who could now maintain two or three people in the Tiangong 2 for up to 30 days with the supplies from one cargo vehicle. China put the first 22 t0n module of the Tiangong 3 in orbit during April 2021 and it has been occupied since September, 2021. Two laboratory modules, each weighing the same as the first, are planned for 2022. The first of these was launched in July with the second one scheduled for October. This will make the initial Tiangong 3 complete. Three more modules can be added to double the crew size to six.

China wanted to join the consortium (United States, Russia, European Union, Japan and Canada) that built and managed the ISS. There was opposition within the U.S. government about Chinese espionage efforts that had obtained data from the United States for peaceful use of space but had used that information for military purposes. The U.S. passed the Wolf Act in early 2011 prohibiting the American space agency NASA from cooperating with China on the ISS. That ended Chinese efforts to participate in the ISS. Later in 2011 China launched, on schedule, Tiangong 1, its first space station.

Russia is withdrawing from space station efforts because their space program (Roscosmos) is broke, and sanctions because the invasion of Ukraine only added to the many problems the Russian space program has had in the last decade. The Mir space station was the last of eight Russian built space stations and the one that remained occupied the longest (4,594 days). The 130-ton Mir was brought down in 2001 after Russia joined the ISS consortium. The 420-ton ISS has been in orbit since 1998, when the first of 17 modules was operational. Other nations have built similar, and rather temporary space stations. That effort began in the 1970s with the Russian Salyut 1 but since the 1990s most nations with space programs have put their resources into supporting the ISS. Now the development of commercial space stations will dominate simply because its cheaper and more efficient than government run operations. This has already happened, again without much media fanfare, to the design, launch and operation of space satellites.
Distribution Amounts and Dates Declared for:

Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Corp. (NYSE: TYG)

Tortoise Midstream Energy Fund, Inc. (NYSE: NTG)

Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc. (NYSE: TTP)

Tortoise Energy Independence Fund, Inc. (NYSE: NDP)

Tortoise Power and Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. (NYSE: TPZ)

OVERLAND PARK, KS / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / Tortoise and the Board of its closed-end funds announced distributions for its closed-end funds. Tortoise Energy Independence Fund, Inc. (NDP) will increase its quarterly distribution by 16.7%.

Tortoise closed-end funds distribution details are as follows:

Fund Ticker Distribution Amount Distribution Frequency Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Corp. TYG $0.71 Quarterly Tortoise Midstream Energy Fund, Inc. NTG $0.77 Quarterly Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc. TTP $0.59 Quarterly Tortoise Energy Independence Fund, Inc., NDP $0.56 Quarterly Tortoise Power and Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc. TPZ $0.105 Monthly

TYG, NTG, TTP, NDP and TPZ (each, a "Fund" and collectively, the "Funds") distributions are payable on August 31, 2022, to shareholders of record on August 24, 2022.

For book purposes, the source of distributions for TYG is estimated to be 0-10% ordinary income, with the remainder as return of capital, NTG is estimated to be 10-20% ordinary income, with the remainder as return of capital, and NDP is estimated to be approximately 40-50% ordinary income, with the remainder as return of capital.

You should not draw any conclusions about TTP's or TPZ's investment performance from the amount of these distributions or from the terms of TTP's or TPZ's distribution policy.

TTP and TPZ estimate that they have distributed more than their income and net realized capital gains; therefore, a portion of the distribution may be return of capital. A return of capital may occur, for example, when some or all of the money that you invested in TTP and TPZ is paid back to you. A return of capital distribution does not necessarily reflect TTP's and TPZ's investment performance and should not be confused with "yield" or "income."

TTP and TPZ will report the sources for their distributions at the time of the payment in the applicable Section 19(a) Notice. The amounts and sources of distributions TTP and TPZ report are only estimates and are not being provided for tax reporting purposes. The actual amounts and sources of the amounts for tax reporting purposes will depend upon TTP's and TPZ's investment experience during the remainder of their fiscal years and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations.

About Tortoise

Tortoise focuses on energy & power infrastructure and the transition to cleaner energy. Tortoise's solid track record of energy value chain investment experience and research dates back more than 20 years. As one of the earliest investors in midstream energy, Tortoise believes it is well-positioned to be at the forefront of the global energy evolution that is underway. With a steady wins approach and a long-term perspective, Tortoise strives to make a positive impact on clients and communities. To learn more, please visit www.TortoiseEcofin.com.

Tortoise Capital Advisors, L.L.C. is the adviser to Tortoise Energy Infrastructure Corp., Tortoise Midstream Energy Fund, Inc., Tortoise Pipeline & Energy Fund, Inc., Tortoise Energy Independence Fund, Inc. and Tortoise Power and Energy Infrastructure Fund, Inc.

For additional information on these funds, please visit cef.tortoiseecofin.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain statements that may include "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are "forward-looking statements." Although the funds and Tortoise Capital Advisors believe that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the fund's reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Other than as required by law, the funds and Tortoise Capital Advisors do not assume a duty to update this forward-looking statement.

Contact information

For more information contact Jen Ashlock at (913) 981-1020 or [email protected].

SOURCE: Tortoise

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According to a report by Bloomberg, Mexico President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on Monday that the country should stop making the drink in the north as it faces severe water shortages.

The northern Mexican region of Monterrey is suffering from water scarcity issues. In addition, the region is said to be Mexico's "industrial heartland," with beermakers such as Heineken NV and Mexican beer giant Grupo Modelo having facilities there.

Bloomberg said Lopez Obrador told beer companies the government will support them in producing beer in the south or southeast.

Mexico's President is said to have told onlookers at a press conference that it is not to say they won't produce any more beer, but that they won't produce beer in the north of the country, "that's over," he stated.

"If they want to keep producing beer, increasing production, then all the support for the south or southeast," he added.

The Mexican President pointed to Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ) as an example of what policy should look like, with the company previously having plans for a beer plant in Mexicali, a border city, but Lopez Obrador ordered the project to cease over water shortage issues.

Following the Bloomberg report, analysts at Evercore ISI and Morgan Stanley released research notes:

Evercore ISI analyst Robert Ottenstein told investors: "STZ stock fell ~4% yesterday, following the release of an article by Bloomberg, including comments from President Obrador of Mexico (AMLO) discussing the future of beer production in Northern Mexico. During a press conference with reporters, he made a variety of comments that were confusing, with the intent ambiguous, but the only thing that seemed clear is that the Mexican government will no longer be granting new permits for beer production in the region. From what we can tell, AMLO's comments regarding the water shortage do not mean that he is in favor of forcing STZ to shut its breweries in the North."

"That said, the odds of STZ being asked to reduce production and/or rethink certain expansions may have increased due to the prolonged and severe drought. In our view, if there are constraints on STZ's production in the North."

Meanwhile, Morgan Stanley analyst Dara Mohsenian told investors in a note: "We acknowledged there is a drought situation and political risk is a wildcard, but after checking in with Constellation Brands, as well as Heineken and ABI (both covered by Pinar Ergun), and reading a translation of the press conference, we are comfortable that his comments were actually a reiteration of existing policy that there will not be new breweries in the North, but in the Southern region, similar to Constellation's prior decision to scrap its plans for a brewery in Mexicali in the North and moved production plans to the South (Veracruz)."

By Sam Boughedda
TOKYO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- NTT Corporation (President: Akira Shimada, NTT) and Shochiku Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Junichi Sakamoto) have announced "Cho Kabuki 2022 Powered by NTT" sponsored by Shochiku, with the first act starring Shido Nakamura's digital twin, Shido Twin. The debut of Shido Twin showcases NTTs research and development of a computer that reproduces people as digital twins and is the first step in the social implementation of this new technology. We hope you will come and witness the birth of Shido Nakamura reproduced as a digital twin.

Created in collaboration with Shochiku Co., Ltd., the Shido Twin autonomously reproduces the gestures of Shido Nakamura, who plays the leading role in Cho-kabuki, using the body motion generation technology of Another Me.

Another Me is a technology born out of NTTs Digital Twin Computing1 concept. With Another Me, we aim to allow individuals to create an alternative self in the digital space, dramatically increasing the opportunities to flourish and grow by transcending the constraints of the real world, to play an active role in society, and to share the results of their own experiences with others.

Cho Kabuki has been co-produced by Shochiku Co., Ltd. and Dwango Co., Ltd. since 2016 and held annually as part of the Niconico Chokaigi festival. Cho Kabuki is a brand-new kabuki experience that combines kabukia traditional Japanese theatre form with a 400-year historyand NTTs cutting-edge ICT technology. This years performance incorporates the latest ICT technology, including the Telephone Shop2 NTTs Kirari!, and the experiment has gained acclaim for expanding the possibilities of theater.

"Super Kabuki 2022 Powered by NTT" Performance Schedule https://chokabuki.jp/2022theatre/

NTT has developed Shido Twin, which learns my speech and mannerisms to behave and gesture like me, and it will debut in one act of the Cho Kabuki performance starting tomorrow. I believe that this cutting-edge technology will further expand the possibilities of the Cho Kabuki production. We will do our best so that our customers can enjoy Cho Kabuki again. Shido Nakamura

How Another Me Technology Works

Another Me is a body motion generation technology that learns someones personality from their audio and video data, automatically generating human movement in response to the persons speech. To reproduce a wide range of movements that capture even the minute mannerisms of a person, our researchers at NTT have incorporated a deep learning technique called Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN), which build a model that generates actions from speech. We have achieved the world's highest performance in capturing the personality and naturalness of a person.

NTT has also developed cutting-edge speech synthesis technology, enabling the learning of the expressive power unique to a voice, such as individual inflection and intonation, from a small amount of speech. We could reproduce Shido Nakamuras characteristic intonation and emotive speech using only a short recording of his voice. We will also try to reproduce his dynamic movements and gestures.

We hope you will look forward to the future research and development of Another Me technology and the new Shido Twin. You can access the full report about Shido Twin here.

1 What is Digital Twin Computing?(https://www.rd.ntt/iown/0003.html) (Japanese)

2 Telephone Shop: NTT's stage name created by the Cho Kabuki Audience

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220803006096/en/

Media contact:

Research Planning Department, Production Division

NTT

[email protected]

Development Planning Department

Shochiku Co., Ltd.

[email protected]

Source: NTT Corporation
Business of Law Technology Leader Aderant will now Include viGlobals Product Suite Among its Substantial Front and Back Office Solutions for Law Firms

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Aderant, an industry leader of Business of Law and Practice of Law technology solutions, announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the assets of viGlobal, which ranks number one amongst law firms, and is a leading provider of people management software in the professional services market. How law firms attract and manage their people directly correlates to how effectively they manage matters and service clients. Therefore, the viGlobal platform is a natural fit to join the growing Aderant product suite with the purpose of helping law firms run better businesses across-the-board.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005300/en/

viGlobal Company Logo

In todays market, to run a better business, you must have strong people management, said Chris Cartrett, CEO of Aderant. We are thrilled to be adding viGlobal, a leading people management platform in the professional services market, to the Aderant product family. Bringing viGlobal into the Aderant fold will help us more fully deliver on our goal of holistically supporting law firm leadership as they tackle their most important business challenges. viGlobals strong product suite combined with Aderants front- and back-office solutions will create stronger integrations for talent management, matter management, and resource planning.

Andrew Talpash, Co-Founder and President & CEO of viGlobal, will continue to consult with Aderant following the acquisition. He remarked, viGlobal has established an excellent reputation in the people management software space, successfully helping professional services firms to hire, develop and retain the people they cannot afford to lose. We are incredibly excited to be joining the Aderant family and are looking forward to both our people and technology becoming a part of their winning team and suite of solutions.

All viGlobal employees are expected to come forward with the business to join Aderant. Financial aspects of the agreement were not disclosed.

Aderant has been steadily growing its product line by acquisition, having acquired American LegalNet (ALN), a docketing software provider, in late December 2021 and Bellefield Systems in May 2020. Also having an active innovation engine internal to the organization, Aderant launched Aderant Intelligence in 2021 with Benchmarking, its first data-driven analytics offering which provides law firms with competitive data to transform their billing process. Aderant continues to drive initiatives for cloud-based development and intelligent automation for its diverse technology products.

Aderant will be exhibiting at ILTACON 2022, conference of the International Legal Technology Association, on August 22-25 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland (booth #316).

For more information on Aderant, visit aderant.com.

About Aderant

Aderant is a global industry leader which provides comprehensive business management software for law firms and other professional services organizations. The companys popular technology brands include Aderant Expert/Expert Sierra for practice management, Handshake and Drive for knowledge management, iTimekeep, OCG Live & Thrive for timekeeping and compliance, BillBlast for eBilling, CompuLaw for docketing and calendaring, and Expert Case for legal case management. Aderant operates as a unit of Roper Technologies (NYSE: ROP), a constituent of the S&P 500  and Fortune 500  indices. The company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and has several other offices across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. For more information, visit Aderant.com, email [email protected], or follow the company on Twitter @Aderant or LinkedIn.

About viGlobal

viGlobal is a leading people management software company focused on serving the professional services vertical market. The company has a wide range of strategic people management products including recruitment, new hire integration, performance management, resource allocation, skills development and learning management solutions. viGlobal has been completely bootstrapped and self-funded since inception.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005300/en/

Media

Megan Haight

Director, Channel Marketing, Aderant

[email protected]

Christy Burke, Burke & Company PR

212-620-7711

[email protected]

Source: Aderant
RALEIGH, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP), a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers, will report its results for the second quarter ended July 16, 2022 after the market closes on Tuesday, August 23, 2022. The company will host a conference call to discuss the results on Wednesday, August 24, 2022. Interested parties can listen to the event via a webcast scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time. The webcast will be accessible via the companys Investor Relations website (ir.AdvanceAutoParts.com).

To join by phone, please pre-register online for dial-in and passcode information. Upon registering, participants will receive a confirmation with call details and a registrant ID. While registration is open through the live call, the company suggests registering a day in advance or at minimum 10 minutes before the start of the call. A replay of the conference call will be available on the companys Investor Relations website for one year.

About Advance Auto Parts

Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers. As of April 23, 2022 Advance operated 4,687 stores and 311 Worldpac branches primarily within the United States, with additional locations in Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The company also served 1,318 independently owned Carquest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico and various Caribbean islands. Additional information about Advance, including employment opportunities, customer services, and online shopping for parts, accessories and other offerings can be found at www.AdvanceAutoParts.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005770/en/

Investor Relations Contact:

Elisabeth Eisleben

T: (919) 227-5466

E: [email protected]

Media Contact:

Darryl Carr

T: (984) 389-7207

E: [email protected]

Source: Advance Auto Parts, Inc.
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Balance, Canadas largest digital asset custodian, today unveiled Balance Compliance, a turnkey solution which streamlines regulatory compliance for FINTRAC reporting entities dealing in virtual currency such as money services businesses (MSBs).

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809006098/en/

Large Virtual Currency Transaction (LVCT) alert on the Balance Custody web platform. (Graphic: Business Wire)

Balance Compliance is the result of over 18 months of work and enables Balance Custody clients which are FINTRAC reporting entities to perform the following on the platform:

designate default originators (i.e., conductors) and beneficiaries on digital wallets as well as external accounts to streamline compliance workflows;

submit instructing third party information on large deposits and automatically submit Large Virtual Currency Transaction Reports (LVCTRs);

comply with sanctions policies through our integration with Chainalysis, a leading blockchain data platform;

comply with Travel Rule requirements through our integration with Travel Rule Universal Solution Technology (TRUST), a leading industry solution;

export Large Virtual Currency Transaction (LVCT) records and records of virtual currency transfers equivalent to $1,000 or more in a standardized format.

The regulatory burden for Canadian companies entering the space in 2022 is non-trivial. Depending on the business model, you might be looking at $100k+ in costs for just developing the LVCTR reporting system alone. For early stage startups these costs tend to be prohibitive, creating a barrier to entry and slowing down innovation. Were happy to provide a solution where submitting LVCTRs is as easy as delegating Balance as your service provider in FINTRAC Web Reporting. - Nuno Silva, Chief Product Officer

Given FINTRACs recent retraction of its position with respect to merchant servicing and payment processing, certain virtual currency payment providers and crowdfunding platforms now need to register as MSBs. For a large majority of them, this new compliance overhead translates into negative unit economics. That doesnt have to be the case. At scale, these costs blend in for us. Come leverage our platform for compliance peace of mind and focus on the core and spirit of your business instead. - George Bordianu, Chief Executive Officer

Balance successfully serves crypto exchanges, OTC and prop. trading desks, neobanks, ATM networks, private funds, market makers, liquidity providers, and corporate entities and foundations. To find out more, visit www.balance.ca.

Press release issued on July 20, 2022

Further to the press release issued on July 20, 2022, Balance wishes to clarify that Balance itself is not a qualified custodian as such term is defined pursuant to applicable securities laws and that crypto trading platforms that are licensed with securities authorities in Canada are expected to use qualified custodians, absent any discretionary relief that may be granted by these regulatory authorities.

Disclaimer

PARADISO VENTURES INC. O/A Balance is a private company incorporated under the laws of the Canada Business Corporations Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. C-44, with the registered office address at 325 Front St W, 4th floor (Attn: Balance), M5V 2Y1, Toronto, Ontario, Canada which sells digital goods and services. This is not an offer or solicitation of any investment contract or financial security and should not be misconstrued as such. Digital assets and the blockchain are early technologies and as such have an associated high degree of risk. Balance cannot and does not offer financial or investing advice. For informational purposes only.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809006098/en/

Dustin Plett

[email protected]

+1 (833) 225-7030

Source: Balance
AUSTIN, Texas & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Blackstone (NYSE: BX) today announced that Blackstone Core+ perpetual capital vehicles, primarily comprising Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust, Inc. (BREIT) and Blackstone Property Partners (BPP), have completed the previously announced acquisition of all of the outstanding shares of common stock of American Campus Communities, Inc. (ACC), the largest developer, owner and manager of high-quality student housing communities in the United States, for approximately $12.8 billion, including the assumption of debt.

We are proud and excited to have our best-in-class company join Blackstone, whose expertise, resources and consistent access to capital will allow us to grow and continue to lead the student housing industry, said Bill Bayless, American Campus Communities Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer. This transaction created significant value for our shareholders and represents the culmination of our teams passionate and dedicated service to our student residents and university partners.

Jacob Werner, Co-Head of Americas Acquisitions for Blackstone Real Estate, said, We are pleased to complete this transaction and welcome the American Campus Communities team to Blackstone. Student housing is a compelling sector with strong historical performance and future growth potential driven by increasing enrollment at the top universities in the U.S. as well as a shortage of quality housing supply. Our perpetual capital will enable ACC to invest in its existing assets and create much-needed new housing in university markets.

BofA Securities served as ACCs lead financial advisor. KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc. also acted as a financial advisor. Dentons US LLP served as ACCs legal counsel.

Wells Fargo Securities LLC, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, SMBC, a member of SMBC Group, and TSB Capital Advisors served as Blackstones financial advisors, and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP acted as Blackstones legal counsel.

The transaction was announced on April 19, 2022.

About American Campus Communities

American Campus Communities, Inc. is the largest owner, manager and developer of high-quality student housing communities in the United States. The company is a fully integrated, self-managed and self-administered equity real estate investment trust (REIT) with expertise in the design, finance, development, construction management and operational management of student housing properties. As of June 30, 2022, American Campus Communities owned 166 student housing properties containing approximately 111,900 beds. Including its owned and third-party managed properties, ACCs total managed portfolio consisted of 204 properties with approximately 143,100 beds. Visit www.americancampus.com.

Blackstone Real Estate

Blackstone is a global leader in real estate investing. Blackstones real estate business was founded in 1991 and has US $320 billion of investor capital under management. Blackstone is the largest owner of commercial real estate globally, owning and operating assets across every major geography and sector, including logistics, residential, office, hospitality and retail. Our opportunistic funds seek to acquire undermanaged, well-located assets across the world. Blackstones Core+ business invests in substantially stabilized real estate assets globally, through both institutional strategies and strategies tailored for income-focused individual investors including Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust, Inc. (BREIT), a U.S. non-listed REIT, and Blackstones European yield-oriented strategy. Blackstone Real Estate also operates one of the leading global real estate debt businesses, providing comprehensive financing solutions across the capital structure and risk spectrum, including management of Blackstone Mortgage Trust (NYSE: BXMT).

Forward-Looking Statements

In addition to historical information, this press release contains forward-looking statements under the applicable federal securities law. These statements are based on the Companys (as defined below) and BREITs, as applicable, current expectations and assumptions regarding markets in which American Campus Communities, Inc. (the Company) and BREIT respectively operates, their respective operational strategies, anticipated events and trends, the economy, and other future conditions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks and uncertainties, which are difficult to predict. These risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements include those discussed in the Companys and BREITs filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 under the heading Risk Factors and under the heading Business - Forward-looking Statements and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, as well as BREITs Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 in the section entitled Risk Factors, BREITs prospectus and in the other periodic reports BREIT files with the SEC. Neither ACC nor BREIT undertakes any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005848/en/

ACC Investor Contact:

Ryan Dennison (512) 732-1000

Senior Vice President Capital Markets & Investor Relations

American Campus Communities, Inc.

Blackstone Media Contact:

Jeffrey Kauth

(212) 583-5395

Source: Blackstone
Platform Compensates Instructors while Connecting Millions of Students with Learning Materials from Educators Around the World

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Chegg, Inc. (NYSE: CHGG), the leading student-first online learning company, today announced the expansion of its faculty-focused platform Uversity to Canada and the United Kingdom.

Through Uversity, instructors are compensated for sharing their teaching materials across Cheggs premier library of supplemental learning content. Students, in turn, gain access to sought-after educational materials, including study guides, practice quizzes and lab and lecture notes, from leading educators in international markets around the world.

Since Uversitys launch in the U.S. in June 2021, there are more than 180,000 pieces of instructor-developed content on the platform and over 6,000 professors have already been verified to participate, from almost 30% of all higher-education institutions in the U.S.

At Chegg, we are passionate about helping students learn. Our research shows that 8 out of 10 students feel instructor-created materials are the most effective materials for their course, said Nina Huntemann, Ph.D., Cheggs Chief Academic Advisor. Thats why were expanding Uversity  so that millions of students receive access to educational excellence and exceptional learning resources on Cheggs platform with the support they need to navigate their own academic journeys and succeed. Further, Uversity provides these instructors with a new avenue for compensation that rewards them for their important learning materials.

Developed in conjunction with a panel of academic experts, Uversity is simple to use. Once an educator is verified by Chegg through a quick, secure online registration, they can upload learning materials from specific subjects, which once approved by Chegg will match to students needs to provide additional learning support. Educators are compensated for their content contributions and, importantly, retain ownership of their intellectual property rights while giving Chegg certain limited exclusive licenses.

Uversity is one way that Chegg works closely with faculty to help ensure it develops programs that engage, support and serve educators. Cheggs Academic Advisory Board, for example, is a highly experienced group of senior academic leaders who provide insights and guidance to help the company better understand and respond to the needs and challenges of todays educators.

The way students learn today is changing, driven in part by new digital tools and resources, said Paul Kim, Ph.D., Associate Dean & Chief Technology Officer at Stanford Graduate School of Education and Chegg Academic Advisory Board member. The challenge, however, can be finding the right learning content from high-quality, trusted sources. Uversity is working to address this by connecting highly sought-after instructors with students in need around the globe.

About Chegg:

Millions of people all around the world Learn with Chegg. Our mission is to improve learning and learning outcomes by putting students first. We support life-long learners starting with their academic journey and extending into their careers. The Chegg platform provides products and services to support learners to help them better understand their academic course materials, and also provides personal and professional development skills training, to help them achieve their learning goals. Chegg is a publicly held company based in Santa Clara, California and trades on the NYSE under the symbol CHGG. For more information, visit www.chegg.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005971/en/

Marc Boxser, [email protected]

Source: Chegg, Inc.
Open to the public in Summer 2023, the natural oasis achieved the highest level of sustainability verification by Oceanic Globals Blue Standard

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today, global beer brand Corona announces the grand opening of Corona Island, a tropical sustainable destination for eco-tourism off the coast of Colombia. A first-of-its-kind island paradise, Corona Island is free of single-use plastic, encouraging guests to reconnect with the natural world through immersive hospitality experiences.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005308/en/

Corona Island (Photo: Business Wire)

As a beer made with natural ingredients that was born at the beach and the first global beverage brand with a net-zero plastic footprint*, Corona partnered with international nonprofit Oceanic Global to create the first Blue Verified island.

Corona Island has achieved Oceanic Globals three-star plastic-free Blue Seal for eliminating single-use plastic and adopting sustainable operating best practices at scale. From construction to energy production, food sourcing and guest experiences on-site, sustainability is at the center of every decision and touchpoint of Corona Island.

On Corona Island, we are celebrating the majesty and beauty of the outdoors by getting guests engaged in protecting paradise, said Felipe Ambra, Global Vice President for Corona. Everyone on the team, from our chefs to our architects contributed to creating a truly single-use plastic-free paradise. We look forward to welcoming visitors, rekindling their relationship with nature and hopefully creating more advocates to protect our natural world.

Oceanic Global is honored to help develop the Corona Island experience and applauds Coronas sector-leading sustainability efforts, said Lea dAuriol, Founder and Executive Director at Oceanic Global. Were proud to have worked with Corona from the beginning of the project to ensure that this sustainable destination demonstrates how travelers can experience paradise for both leisure and educational purposes, while leaving a minimal trace behind.

Exclusive island features:

Design and vision for the island led by international architectural and design firm, James & Mau, in partnership with local Colombian architect, Jairo Marquez.

Guest menus created by Chilean-born Chef Christopher Carpentier, who was featured as a judge on MasterChef Colombia.

Corona Islands leisure programs are curated by Paulina Vega, former Miss Universe, who was born on the Colombian coast.

Educational workshops and excursions hosted as part of Oceanic Globals Blue School.

For more details, and to learn how to book a stay on Corona Island starting Summer 2023,** please visit the registration page here.

*AB InBev's 2021 Environmental, Social & Governance. Report. Retrieved from https://www.ab-inbev.com/assets/pdfs/ABINBEV_ESG_2021_Final.pdf - page 37.

**U.S. Residents are not eligible for purchasing stays on Corona Island. Corona and some of the Modelo beer brands have been licensed to a third party for the U.S. territory.

About Corona Global

Born in Mexico, Corona is the leading beer brand in the country, the most popular Mexican beer worldwide exported to more than 180 countries. Corona Extra was first brewed in 1925 at the Cerveceria Modelo in Mexico City. Corona is a pioneer in the beer industry by being the first to use a transparent bottle showcasing its purity and high quality to the world. The artwork found on the bottle is painted, highlighting our commitment to quality in our packaging and our Mexican heritage. No Corona is complete without the lime. Naturally adding character, flavor and refreshment, the lime ritual is an integral part of delivering an experience that is truly unique to Corona. The brand is synonymous with the beach and celebrates time outdoors. It invites people to pause, relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Corona has an ongoing commitment to reducing plastics. Since its partnership with Parley for the Oceans in 2017, they have exceeded its mission to protect 100 islands before 2020, and continue to deploy consistent global clean-up efforts.

About Anheuser-Busch InBev

Anheuser-Busch InBev is a publicly traded company (Euronext: ABI) based in Leuven, Belgium, with secondary listings on the Mexico (MEXBOL: ANB) and South Africa (JSE: ANH) stock exchanges and with American Depositary Receipts on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BUD). As a company, we dream big to create a future with more cheers. We are always looking to serve up new ways to meet lifes moments, move our industry forward and make a meaningful impact in the world. We are committed to building great brands that stand the test of time and to brewing the best beers using the finest ingredients. Our diverse portfolio of well over 500 beer brands includes global brands Budweiser, Corona and Stella Artois; multi-country brands Becks, Hoegaarden, Leffe and Michelob ULTRA; and local champions such as Aguila, Antarctica, Bud Light, Brahma, Cass, Castle, Castle Lite, Cristal, Harbin, Jupiler, Modelo Especial, Quilmes, Victoria, Sedrin, and Skol. Our brewing heritage dates back more than 600 years, spanning continents and generations. From our European roots at the Den Hoorn brewery in Leuven, Belgium. To the pioneering spirit of the Anheuser & Co brewery in St. Louis, US. To the creation of the Castle Brewery in South Africa during the Johannesburg gold rush. To Bohemia, the first brewery in Brazil. Geographically diversified with a balanced exposure to developed and developing markets, we leverage the collective strengths of approximately 169,000 colleagues based in nearly 50 countries worldwide. For 2021, AB InBevs reported revenue was 54.3 billion USD (excluding JVs and associates).

About Oceanic Global

Founded in 2016 by Lea dAuriol, Oceanic Global (OG) inspires us to care deeply for the ocean and provides solutions to protect it. The international non-profit sheds light on humanitys essential relationship to the ocean and empowers individuals, communities, and industries to create positive change. Oceanic Global creates educational experiences, consults on sustainable operations, and engages local communities to generate measurable impact for our collective wellbeing. In 2020, Oceanic Global launched the Blue Standard (Blue), a first-of-its-kind cross industry standard that establishes universal accountability for sustainable business leadership and empowers industries and businesses of all sizes to achieve measurable impact that protects our blue planet. Oceanic Global is based in Brooklyn, New York with international hubs & volunteer bases in New York, London, Los Angeles, Barcelona, Tulum, and Hong Kong. Reflective of its global reach, the organization has additionally produced United Nations World Oceans Day since 2019. #CareDeeply | www.oceanic.global

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005308/en/

Media

AB InBev Media Relations

E-mail: [email protected]

Faith Yi

Tel: +1 206.226.0859

E-mail: [email protected]

Source: Corona Global
LAKE HAVASU CITY, Ariz.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (OTC Pink: HRRB), the holding company for Horizon Community Bank, announced growth in total loans of 3.89%, inclusive of PPP influence, and 4.93.% excluding the effects of PPP for the quarter ended June 30, 2022. Total deposits and total assets contracted for the quarter ended June 30, 2022, by 3.01% and 5.47%, respectively. Net Income for the quarter was $1,160,806 and $5,148,026 for the 12 months ended June 30, 2022.

June 30, 2022 highlights include:

Year-to-date loan growth, exclusive of PPP influence, is $18,758,539 and 7.45%

Improved asset quality with non-performing assets ratio reduction to 0.07% and loans past due 30 days or greater at 0.01% of total loans

Non-interest demand deposit representing 37% of total deposits

Ralph Tapscott, President and CEO stated, This quarter is highlighted with reasonably strong loan growth and exceptional credit quality. Net interest income and net interest margin are rebounding with the higher yield curve and deposit rates have been effectively managed. Non-interest income, although still strong and diversified, is reflective of lower mortgage division revenue. Non-interest expense appears higher than this same period last year, but much of this is reflective of PPP influence and the associated underwriting. We have experienced some contraction in deposits, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. Liquidity remains strong, and regulatory capital has improved, with a June 30, 2022, tier 1 leverage ratio of 8.65%.

Tapscott added, As you may be aware, on March 9, 2022, Horizon Bancorp, Inc., Horizon Community Bank and Arizona Federal Credit Union (now known as Arizona Financial Credit Union) entered into a Purchase and Assumption Agreement, which provides for Arizona Financial Credit Unions acquisition of substantially all of the assets of and assumption of substantially all of the liabilities of Horizon Community Bank. The press release announcing the parties entering into the Purchase and Assumption Agreement may be viewed on Horizon Community Banks website at www.horizoncommunitybank.com. The proposed transaction is subject to customary legal conditions, including regulatory. The parties have filed regulatory applications for the proposed transaction, some of which are currently pending. In addition, the shareholders of Horizon Bancorp, Inc. voted affirmatively on the proposed transaction at the annual meeting of shareholders on June 15, 2022.

Credit quality metrics are shown in the following table and reflect appropriate risk management in the loan portfolio. The banks analysis indicates it maintains an ample allowance for loan and lease loss at 1.62% of total outstanding loans, and this is inclusive of PPP.

06/30/2022 03/31/2022 06/30/2021 30+ Days Delinquent / Loans .00 % 1.03 % 0.13 % Non-Accrual Loans / Loans 0.06 % 0.07 % 0.21 % Other Real Estate Owned $ 200,100 $ 200,100 $ 495,946 Net Charge Offs/Loans -.096 % .01 % 0.002 % ALLL/Loans 1.62%(1) 1.58 % 1.48 %

(1) ALLL/Loans excluding PPP loans outstanding is 1.64%

The Bank remains well capitalized under regulatory guidelines. The Banks regulatory capital ratios are further addressed in the following table 

06/30/2022 03/31/2022 06/30/2021 Tier 1 Leverage Ratio 8.65 % 8.43 % 7.78 % Tier 1 Common Equity Ratio 15.09 % 15.74 % 14.31 % Tier 1 Capital Ratio 15.09 % 15.74 % 14.31 % Total Capital Ratio 16.34 % 16.99 % 15.56 %

About the Company

Horizon Bancorp, Inc. (OTC: HRRB), the holding company for Horizon Community Bank has $522 million in total assets as of June 30, 2022, and is headquartered in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. It owns, as its sole subsidiary, Horizon Community Bank, a locally owned and operated bank with branches in Fort Mohave, Kingman, Lake Havasu City, Phoenix Metro, Parker and Quartzsite, Arizona, plus loan offices in Goodyear and Phoenix, Arizona. The Bank has 90 employees that provide high-touch, customized financial services to largely small business and commercial clients. The Bank operates a mortgage operation and is a leader in government guaranteed lending. Consumer services are also offered in the communities the bank serves. FDIC insured. Learn more at http://www.horizoncommunitybank.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release may include forward-looking statements about Horizon Bancorp, Inc. and Horizon Community Bank. These statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following factors: Annualized, proforma and projected or estimated numbers in this release are illustrative only, are not forecasts and may not reflect actual results. All forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time of this release, and Horizon Bancorp, Inc. and Horizon Community Bank assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Unaudited Financial Information follows.

Horizon Bancorp, Inc. Financial Information - Unaudited In thousands - except per share data For the Three Months For the Six Months ended June 30 ended June 30 Year-End 6/30/22 6/30/21 6/30/22 6/30/21 12/31/21 Summary Income Data: Interest Income $ 4,395 $ 4,200 $ 8,401 $ 8,763 $ 17,601 Interest Expense 152 248 313 549 917 Net Interest Income 4,243 3,952 8,088 8,214 16,684 Provision for loans losses 0 0 0 75 75 Non-interest Income 1,143 1,560 2,610 2,467 5,098 Non-interest expense 3,785 3,679 7,708 6,998 14,451 Income (loss) before income taxes 1,601 1,834 2,990 3,608 7,256 Provision(benefit) for income taxes 439 451 774 885 1,600 Net Income $ 1,162 $ 1,383 $ 2,216 $ 2,723 $ 5,655 Per Share Data: Shares outstanding end-of-period 4,300 4,132 4,300 4,132 4,145 Earnings per common share $ 0.27 $ 0.33 $ 0.52 $ 0.66 $ 1.36 Total shareholder's equity $ 31,329 $ 35,588 $ 31,329 $ 35,588 $ 37,539 Book Value per share $ 7.29 $ 8.61 $ 7.29 $ 8.61 $ 9.06 Selected Balance Sheet Data: Total assets $ 521,477 $ 532,518 $ 521,477 $ 532,518 $ 539,484 Securities available-for-sale 174,960 131,152 174,960 131,152 174,141 Loans 272,687 288,395 272,687 288,395 259,902 Allowance for loan losses 4,423 4,260 4,423 4,260 4,168 Deposits 474,878 469,660 474,878 469,660 471,069 Other borrowings 2,384 14,428 2,384 14,428 13,228 Shareholder's Equity 31,329 35,588 31,329 35,588 37,539 Performance Ratios: Return on average assets (annualized) (%) 0.87 % 1.03 % 0.82 % 1.05 % 16.01 % Return on average shareholder's equity (annualized) (%) 14.49 % 15.65 % 12.83 % 15.91 % 3.28 % Shareholder's equity to assets (%) 6.01 % 6.19 % 6.01 % 6.68 % 0.18 % Net interest margin (%) 3.58 % 3.58 % 3.13 % 3.31 % 3.34 % Cost of funds 0.08 % 0.25 % 0.12 % 0.22 % 1.06 % Average assets $ 536,857 $ $ 501,179 $ 543,635 $ 520,050 $ 532,005 Efficiency ratio (%) 70.28 % 64.24 % 72.05 % 65.52 % 66.64 % Asset Quality Data: Nonaccrual loans $ 150 $ 616 $ 150 $ 616 $ 527 Troubled debt restructurings $ 369 $ 1,553 $ 369 $ 1,553 $ 453 Other real estate $ 200 $ 466 $ 200 $ 466 $ 31 Nonperforming assets $ 350 $ 1,082 $ 350 $ 1,082 $ 558 Nonperforming assets to total assets (%) 0.07 % 0.20 % 0.07 % 0.20 % 0.10 % Nonperforming loans to total loans (%) 0.06 % 0.21 % 0.06 % 0.21 % 0.20 % Reserve for loan losses to total loans (%) 1.62 % 1.48 % 1.62 % 1.48 % 1.60 % Reserve for loan losses to nonperforming loans (%) 2948.52 % 691.48 % 2948.52 % 691.48 % 790.89 % Reserve for loan losses to nonperforming assets (%) 1263.65 % 393.67 % 1263.65 % 393.67 % 746.95 % Net charge-offs for period (272 ) 5 (255 ) (6 ) 86 Average Loans $ 272,047 $ 286,385 $ 265,064 $ 286,986 $ 280,232 Ratio of net charge-offs to average loans (%) -0.100 % 0.002 % -0.096 % -0.002 % 0.031 % Regulatory Capital Ratios Horizon Community Bank: Tier 1 leverage ratio (%) 8.65 % 7.78 % 8.65 % 7.78 % 8.14 % Common Equity Tier 1 ratio (%) 15.09 % 14.31 % 15.09 % 14.31 % 15.49 % Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio (%) 15.09 % 14.31 % 15.09 % 14.31 % 15.49 % Total risk-based capital ratio (%) 16.34 % 15.56 % 16.34 % 15.56 % 16.74 %

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005732/en/

Ralph Tapscott, President/CEO, [email protected]

Ross Johnson, EVP/CFO, [email protected]

Source: Horizon Bancorp, Inc.
SaaS revenue grows 21%; constant currency1 SaaS revenue grows 27%

Total revenue grows 35%; constant currency1 total revenue grows 42%

Adjusted EBITDA1 margin of 13%; constant currency1 adjusted EBITDA1 margin of 15%

ARR grows 21%; constant currency1 ARR grows 25% as company experiences ongoing strength in new customer wins and existing customer expansions

OTTAWA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Kinaxis (TSX: KXS) , the authority in driving agility for fast, confident decision-making in an unpredictable world, reported results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2022. All amounts are in U.S. dollars. All figures are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) unless otherwise indicated.

Each quarter we continue to see significant growth in new customers over comparable periods, and the demand environment for supply chain planning continues to strengthen. We remain at the epicenter of a wave of transformation to end-to-end digital supply chains and are the only solution provider to offer real-time visibility, actionability and agility through a unique concurrent planning approach, said John Sicard, President and CEO of Kinaxis. While foreign exchange fluctuations are a headwind to reported results for North American SaaS companies right now, our constant currency1 results and outlook clearly demonstrate how we are experiencing ongoing momentum in SaaS revenue and ARR growth, and are executing to plan against our profitability goals for the year.

Q2 2022 Highlights

$ USD thousands, except as otherwise indicated Q2 2022 Q2 2021 Change Total Revenue 80,800 60,056 35% (constant currency1) 85,264 42% SaaS 51,109 42,301 21% (constant currency1) 53,530 27% Subscription term licenses 378 620 (39%) Professional services 25,386 14,001 81% Maintenance and support 3,927 3,134 25% Gross profit 49,776 40,273 24% Margin 62% 67% Profit (2,632) 3,088 (185%) Per diluted share ($0.10) $0.11 Adjusted EBITDA1 10,376 7,149 45% Margin 13% 12% (constant currency1) 13,107 83% 15% Cash from operating activities 8,415 15,002 (44%)

(1) Adjusted EBITDA and constant currency metrics are non-IFRS measures and are not recognized, defined or standardized measures under IFRS. These measure as well as any other non-IFRS financial measures reported by Kinaxis are defined in the Non-IFRS Measures section of this news release.

Key Performance Indicators

The companys Annual Recurring Revenue2 (ARR), which includes subscription amounts related to both SaaS and on-premise contracts, rose 25% in constant currency1 to $249 million at the end of the quarter.

$USD millions Q2 2022 Q2 2021 Change Annual recurring revenue2 241 200 21% Annual recurring revenue2,

constant currency1 249 200 25%

(2) Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) is the total annualized value of recurring subscription amounts (ultimately recognized as SaaS, Subscription term licenses and Maintenance and support revenue) of all subscription contracts at a point in time. Annualized subscription amounts are determined solely by reference to the underlying contracts, normalizing for the varying revenue recognition treatments under IFRS 15 for cloud-based versus on-premise subscription amounts. It excludes one-time fees, such as for non-recurring professional services, and assumes that customers will renew the contractual commitments on a periodic basis as those commitments come up for renewal, unless such renewal is known to be unlikely. We believe that this measure provides a more current indication of our performance in the growth of our subscription business than other metrics.

The nature of the companys long-term contracts provides visibility into future, contracted revenue. The following table presents revenue expected to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially unsatisfied) at June 30, 2022.

$USD millions Remainder of

2022 2023 2024 and later Total SaaS 101.5 169.4 188.7 459.6 Maintenance and support 7.2 11.1 14.0 32.3 Subscription term licenses 2.8 - 0.1 2.9 Total 111.6 180.5 202.7 494.8

Financial Guidance

Kinaxis is updating its previous fiscal 2022 financial guidance. To date in 2022, Kinaxis has seen an incremental strengthening of the U.S. dollar that has negatively impacted reported results  most notably for SaaS revenue. Removing the impact of these foreign exchange fluctuations, on a constant currency1 basis Kinaxis sees SaaS revenue growth of 25-27% for FY 2022, reflecting the ongoing underlying strength in the business environment.

Previous FY 2022 Guidance Updated FY 2022 Guidance Total revenue $345-355 million $355-365 million SaaS 23-25% growth 21-23% growth

(25-27%, constant currency1 basis) Subscription term license $32-34 million $34-36 million Adjusted EBITDA1 margin 16-19% 16-19%

Guidance in this press release is provided to enhance visibility into Kinaxis expectations for financial targets for the periods indicated. Please refer to the section regarding forward-looking statements that forms an integral part of this release. This press release along with the financial statements and MD&A for the three months ended June 30, 2022 are available on Kinaxis website and on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Conference Call

Kinaxis will host a conference call tomorrow, August 10, 2022, to discuss these results. John Sicard, Chief Executive Officer, and Blaine Fitzgerald, Chief Financial Officer, will host the call starting at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. A question and answer session will follow management's presentation. Investors and participants must register for the call in advance. See registration link below. Please call the conference telephone number fifteen minutes prior to the start time.

DATE: Wednesday, August 10, 2022 TIME: 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time CALL REGISTRATION: https://conferencingportals.com/event/eopSfgtI WEBCAST: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/109665882 (available for three months) REPLAY: (800)-770-2030 or (647)-362-9199

Available through August 24, 2022

Reference number: 2948803

About Kinaxis Inc.

Everyday volatility and uncertainty demand quick action. Kinaxis delivers the agility to make fast, confident decisions across integrated business planning and the digital supply chain. People can plan better, live better and change the world. Trusted by innovative brands, we combine human intelligence with AI and concurrent planning to help companies plan for any future, monitor risks and opportunities and respond at the pace of change. Powered by an extensible, cloud-based platform, Kinaxis delivers industry-proven applications so everyone can know sooner, act faster and remove waste. For more Kinaxis news, follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter.

Non-IFRS Measures

Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin

This news release contains non-IFRS measures, specifically Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin. We use Adjusted EBITDA to provide investors with a supplemental measure of our operating performance and thus highlight trends in our core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on IFRS financial measures. We believe that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use non-IFRS measures in the evaluation of issuers. Management also uses non-IFRS measures in order to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period, prepare annual operating budgets and assess our ability to meet our capital expenditure and working capital requirements. Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margins are not recognized, defined or standardized measures under IFRS. Our definition of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA margin will likely differ from that used by other companies (including our peers) and therefore comparability may be limited. Non-IFRS measures should not be considered a substitute for or in isolation from measures prepared in accordance with IFRS. Investors are encouraged to review our financial statements and disclosures in their entirety and are cautioned not to put undue reliance on non-IFRS measures and view them in conjunction with the most comparable IFRS financial measures. Kinaxis has reconciled Adjusted EBITDA to the most comparable IFRS financial measure as follows:

Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2022 2021 2022 2021 (In thousands of USD) Profit (loss) $ (2,632 ) $ 3,088 $ 9,890 $ 1,554 Share-based compensation 6,503 5,902 12,506 11,209 Non-recurring item  (7,906 )  (7,906 ) Adjusted profit $ 3,871 $ 1,084 $ 22,396 $ 4,857 Income tax expense 986 916 8,114 984 Depreciation and amortization 6,061 4,598 11,975 9,068 Foreign exchange loss (gain) (623 ) 443 542 911 Net finance expense 81 108 498 370 6,505 6,065 21,129 11,333 Adjusted EBITDA $ 10,376 $ 7,149 $ 43,525 $ 16,190 Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of revenue 13 % 12 % 24 % 14 %

Constant Currency metrics

We present SaaS revenue, total revenue, adjusted EBITDA, ARR and their related growth rates under constant currency, a non-IFRS measure, to provide a framework for assessing how our business performed excluding the effect of foreign currency rate fluctuations. Such results for entities reporting in currencies other than U.S. Dollars (USD) are converted into USD at the average exchange rates in effect during the comparison period (i.e., for Q2 2022, the average exchange rates in effect for Q2 2021), rather than the actual average exchange rates in effect during the current period. The outlook for constant currency SaaS revenue growth rate is derived by applying the average exchange rates in effect during the comparison period rather than the exchange rates for the guidance period (i.e., for FY 2022 constant currency guidance, the average exchange rates in effect for FY 2021). We believe the presentation of the above metrics and applicable related growth rates adjusted for constant currency facilitates the corresponding yearoveryear comparisons.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements include statements as to our expectations for:

growth of annual total revenue, annual SaaS and Subscription term licenses revenue, and our expectations for Adjusted EBITDA margin achievement, in each case looking forward for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2022; and

contracted revenue in future periods, including 2022, 2023 and 2024 and later.

This release also includes forward-looking statements as to Kinaxis growth opportunities and the potential benefits of, and markets and demand for, Kinaxis products and services. These statements are subject to certain assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including our view of the relative position of Kinaxis products and services compared to competitive offerings in the industry.

In particular, our guidance for 2022 annual total revenue, annual SaaS and Subscription term license revenue and annual Adjusted EBITDA margin, is subject to certain assumptions and associated risks including:

our ability to win business from new customers and expand business from existing customers;

the timing of new customer wins and expansion decisions by our existing customers;

maintaining our customer retention levels , and specifically, that customers will renew contractual commitments on a periodic basis as those commitments come up for renewal, at rates consistent with our historic experience;

, fluctuations in the value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. Dollar; and

with respect to Adjusted EBITDA, our ability to contain expense levels while expanding our business.

Our guidance and commentary for achievement of contracted revenue in future periods, including in 2022, 2023 and 2024 and later, is based on assumptions and associated risks including:

our ability to satisfy material unperformed obligations under our long-term contracts; and

the continued financial capacity and creditworthiness of our customers under long-term contracts.

These and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties may cause Kinaxis actual results, performance, achievements and developments to differ materially from the results, performance, achievements or developments expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Material risks and uncertainties relating to our business are described under the headings Forward-Looking Statements and Risks and Uncertainties in our annual MD&A dated March 1, 2022, under the heading Risk Factors in our Annual Information Form dated March 25, 2022 and in our other public documents filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities, which are available at www.sedar.com. Forward-looking statements are provided to help readers understand managements expectations as at the date of this release and may not be suitable for other purposes. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Kinaxis assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by law.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Financial Position

(Expressed in thousands of USD)

(Unaudited) June 30,

2022 December 31,

2021 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 227,862 $ 203,220 Short-term investments 30,197 30,168 Trade and other receivables 84,582 89,247 Prepaid expenses 11,721 8,502 354,362 331,137 Non-current assets: Unbilled receivables 2,766 512 Other receivables 967 1,096 Prepaid expenses 2,878 1,780 Investment tax credits recoverable 6,140 3,616 Deferred tax assets 987 6,000 Contract acquisition costs 22,276 19,691 Property and equipment 51,025 52,093 Right-of-use assets 55,142 53,578 Intangible assets 11,215 10,778 Goodwill 42,412 39,988 195,808 189,132 $ 550,170 $ 520,269 Liabilities and Shareholders Equity Current liabilities: Trade payables and accrued liabilities $ 37,629 $ 43,328 Deferred revenue 102,356 99,239 Provisions 367 716 Lease obligations 7,042 2,526 147,394 145,809 Non-current liabilities: Lease obligations 53,867 53,233 Deferred tax liabilities 1,021 9 54,888 53,242 Shareholders equity: Share capital 206,298 195,414 Contributed surplus 62,074 54,739 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (2,036 ) (597 ) Retained earnings 81,552 71,662 347,888 321,218 $ 550,170 $ 520,269

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

(Expressed in thousands of USD, except share and per share data)

(Unaudited) Three months ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2022 2021 2022 2021 Revenue $ 80,800 $ 60,056 $ 178,908 $ 117,784 Cost of revenue 31,024 19,783 59,490 40,289 Gross profit 49,776 40,273 119,418 77,495 Operating expenses: Selling and marketing 21,138 14,279 38,264 27,117 Research and development 18,076 11,223 36,233 24,905 General and administrative 12,817 10,323 26,001 21,865 52,031 35,825 100,498 73,887 (2,255 ) 4,448 18,920 3,608 Other income (expense): Foreign exchange gain/(loss) 623 (443 ) (542 ) (911 ) Net finance and other expense (14 ) (1 ) (374 ) (159 ) 609 (444 ) (916 ) (1,070 ) Profit (loss) before income taxes (1,646 ) 4,004 18,004 2,538 Income tax expense 986 916 8,114 984 Profit (loss) (2,632 ) 3,088 9,890 1,554 Other comprehensive loss Items that are or may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss: Foreign currency translation differences - foreign operations (1,059 ) 39 (1,439 ) (230 ) Total comprehensive income (loss) $ (3,691 ) $ 3,127 $ 8,451 $ 1,324 Basic earnings (loss) per share $ (0.10 ) $ 0.11 $ 0.36 $ 0.06 Weighted average number of basic Common Shares 27,593,598 27,110,830 27,537,845 27,165,088 Diluted earnings (loss) per share $ (0.10 ) $ 0.11 $ 0.35 $ 0.05 Weighted average number of diluted Common Shares 27,593,598 28,132,511 28,478,656 28,260,273

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Changes in Shareholders Equity

(Expressed in thousands of USD)

(Unaudited) Share

capital Contributed

surplus Accumulated

other

comprehensive

loss Retained

earnings Total equity Balance, December 31, 2020 $ 173,104 $ 35,846 $ (20 ) $ 72,827 $ 281,757 Profit    1,554 1,554 Other comprehensive loss   (230 )  (230 ) Total comprehensive loss   (230 ) 1,554 1,324 Share options exercised 6,164 (1,600 )   4,564 Share based payments  11,209   11,209 Total shareholder transactions 6,164 9,609   15,773 Balance, June 30, 2021 $ 179,268 $ 45,455 $ (250 ) $ 74,381 $ 298,854 Balance, December 31, 2021 $ 195,414 $ 54,739 $ (597 ) $ 71,662 $ 321,218 Profit    9,890 9,890 Other comprehensive loss   (1,439 )  (1,439 ) Total comprehensive income (loss)   (1,439 ) 9,890 8,451 Share options exercised 9,869 (2,176 )   7,693 Restricted share units vested 598 (598 )    Performance share units vested 417 (417 )    Share based payments  10,526   10,526 Total shareholder transactions 10,884 7,335   18,219 Balance, June 30, 2022 $ 206,298 $ 62,074 $ (2,036 ) $ 81,552 $ 347,888

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows

(Expressed in thousands of USD)

(Unaudited) Three Months Ended June 30, Six months ended June 30, 2022 2021 2022 2021 Cash flows from operating activities: Profit (loss) $ (2,632 ) $ 3,088 $ 9,890 $ 1,554 Items not affecting cash: Depreciation of property and equipment and right-of-use assets 5,437 4,037 10,768 7,946 Amortization of intangible assets 624 561 1,207 1,122 Share-based payments 6,503 5,902 12,506 11,209 Net finance expense 81 1 498 159 Income tax expense 986 916 8,114 984 Investment tax credits recoverable (1,482 ) 674 (2,524 ) 249 Change in operating assets and liabilities (64 ) 70 (7,296 ) 13,010 Interest received 372 183 402 206 Interest paid (475 ) (173 ) (929 ) (357 ) Income taxes paid (935 ) (257 ) (2,228 ) (431 ) 8,415 15,002 30,408 35,651 Cash flows used in investing activities: Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired 9  (3,019 ) (800 ) Purchase of property and equipment and intangible assets (1,275 ) (12,489 ) (7,554 ) (16,930 ) Purchase of short-term investments (15,154 ) (15,154 ) (30,160 ) (30,160 ) Redemption of short-term investments 15,154 15,154 30,160 30,160 (1,266 ) (12,489 ) (10,573 ) (17,730 ) Cash flows from financing activities: Payment of lease obligations (1,754 ) (1,185 ) (3,231 ) (2,357 ) Lease incentive received 3,858  3,858  Proceeds from exercise of stock options 516 2,304 7,693 4,564 2,620 1,119 8,320 2,207 Increase in cash and cash equivalents 9,769 3,632 28,155 20,128 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 221,983 199,143 203,220 182,958 Effects of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents (3,890 ) (4 ) (3,513 ) (315 ) Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 227,862 $ 202,771 $ 227,862 $ 202,771

SOURCE: Kinaxis Inc.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220810005042/en/

Investor Relations

Rick Wadsworth | Kinaxis

[email protected]

613-907-7613

Media Relations

Jaime Cook | Kinaxis

[email protected]

289-552-4640

Source: Kinaxis Inc.
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Regulatory News:

MotorK Plc (AMS: MTRK) (MotorK or the Group") announces today that it has purchased the following number of ordinary shares in the Company.

This is part of a repurchase program announced on July 18, 2022. MotorK intends to buy back its own ordinary shares by way of off-market purchases on Euronext Amsterdam and via block trades up to a maximum aggregate value of 3,000,000 (the Programme). The authorization will expire following the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of the Company to be held in 2023.

Aggregate Information

Date Negotiation Transactions Number of

Ordinary Shares Total

Consideration

() Average price

( per share) Minimum price

( per share) Maximum price

( per share) 8/1/2022 Stock Exchange Purchase 2 408 7 027 2,92 2,88 2,96 8/2/2022 Stock Exchange Purchase 907 2 655 2,93 2,90 2,96 8/3/2022 Stock Exchange Purchase 948 2 749 2,90 2,90 2,90 8/4/2022 Stock Exchange Purchase 1 006 2 887 2,87 2,84 2,90 8/5/2022 Stock Exchange Purchase 1 036 2 917 2,82 2,80 2,83 Total Weekly 6 305 18 235 2,89 2,80 2,96 Cumulated to date 27 315 82 618

The Programme is implemented within the limitations of the authority granted by the General Meeting on July 18, 2022. Any shares so repurchased shall be treated as cancelled pursuant to section 706(b) of the Companies Act 2006.

The Group has entered into non-discretionary instructions with Kepler Cheuvreux SA (Kepler Cheuvreux) to conduct the Programme on its behalf and to make trading decisions under the Programme independently of MotorK.

REGULATED INFORMATION

This press release contains information that qualifies or may qualify as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation (596/2014/EU)

ABOUT MOTORK PLC

MotorK (AMS: MTRK) is a leading software as a service (SaaS) provider for the automotive retail industry in the EMEA region, with over 400 employees and eleven offices in eight countries (Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Portugal, the UK, Belgium and Israel). MotorK empowers car manufacturers and dealers to improve their customer experience through a broad suite of fully integrated digital products and services. MotorK provides its customers with an innovative combination of digital solutions, SaaS cloud products and the largest R&D department in the automotive digital sales and marketing industry in Europe. MotorK is a company registered in England and Wales. Registered office: 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX - Company Registration: 9259000. For more information: www.motork.io or www.investors.motork.io.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220808005443/en/

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

MotorK Investor Relations

Etienne Jacquet

[email protected]

+33 6 22 18 39 09

MotorK Corporate Communications

[email protected]

Source: MotorK Plc
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Nextech AR Solutions Corp. (Nextech or the Company) (OTCQB: NEXCF) (CSE: NTAR) (FSE: N29), a Metaverse Company and leading provider of augmented reality (AR) experience technologies and 3D modelling services for ecommerce brands is pleased to announce the launch of its ARitize Configurator as an upgrade to the ARitize 3D app in Shopify. This launch further cements the Company's leadership position by offering one integrated solution for Shopify merchants. To date, the ARitize 3D app for Shopify has had a 40% conversion rate with 312 downloads, and 124 merchants in paid plan subscriptions. Adoption is growing in the Shopify community for 3D models, and it is anticipated that adding the Configurator option will only accelerate merchants' adoption.

Watch a video of the ARitize Configurator - click here

Nextech AR CEO Evan Gappelberg commented, Over the past several years, eCommerce sales have sky-rocketed on Shopify and Amazon. Customers are shopping more online and making more purchases online than ever before in new categories like furniture due to 3D models and AR. In my opinion, it is only a matter of time before all brands and businesses will need to shift and embrace new 3D modelling technologies to gain an edge over the competition. Brands must invest in 3D models, or they will risk being left behind by their competitors. He continues, We are seeing strong momentum in our business and are working with the largest ecomm Prime Marketplace as well as others who have a very large appetite for 3D models. We have what I believe is the highest-quality AI-powered 3D modelling and configuration technology thats now available on Shopify which is another major ecommerce merchant platform.

ARitize Configurator allows eCommerce sites to display multiple product variations from only one 3D model, which is all thats needed to lay the groundwork for an extended product portfolio. With a single 3D model acting as the base, the Companys technology has made it easy to swap and display all product options and customizations. Customers have the ability to interchange colors, parts, materials and textures in real-time 3D to suit their personal preferences. With the augmented reality feature, customers can also place the customized high quality 3D product in their home or desired location, to see how the product would look in their space. This allows customers to see customized products from every angle and position them appropriately prior to purchasing, leading to better purchasing decisions and greater buying confidence. This provides an exciting, immersive shopping experience that keeps customers more engaged, better informed, which has shown to generate up to a 94% increase in conversions and a 40% reduction in returns.1

With Nextech ARs integrated ARitize Configurator technology now available in the ARitize 3D app in the Shopify merchant store, the Company provides a one-stop solution for eCommerce businesses, incorporating both 3D model making and product configurations. This makes the adoption of 3D/AR extremely easy, simple and affordable for Shopify merchants as they can subscribe for different plans which suit their needs and manage the app themselves from their merchant Shopify admin. The functionality is also seamless, as the ARitize 3D app holds an extension that allows Shopify merchants to embed a configurator onto their PDP without modifying code  allowing for an easy drag and drop wherever desired on the product page.

About ARitize Configurator

Nextech AR Solutions ARitize Configurator is one of the most advanced configuration products on the market today. It is a software extension of the award-winning ARitize 3D app that allows consumers, buyers, and sales reps to customize & preview high-quality 3D models of products they wish to purchase. The Configurator makes it easy for shoppers to change colors, parts and materials all in engaging real-time 3D.

Nextech AR Solutions is a global augmented reality company that is powering the metaverse. Its technology - including ARitize Configurator - helps businesses in a range of industries like eCommerce, advertising, packaging design, virtual events, digital learning achieve next-level interactivity. To learn more, visit https://www.nextechar.com/aritize-configurator

Follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, or visit our website: https://www.Nextechar.com.

About Nextech AR

Nextech AR Solutions is the engine accelerating the growth of the Metaverse. Using breakthrough AI, Nextech AR is able to quickly, easily and affordably ARitize (transform) vast quantities and varieties of existing assets at scale making products, people and places ready for interactive 3D use, giving creators at every level all the essential tools they need to build out their digital AR vision in the Metaverse. Our platform agnostic tools allow brands, educators, students, manufacturers, creators, and technologists to create immersive, interactive and the most photo-realistic 3D assets and digital environments, compose AR experiences, and publish them omnichannel. With a full suite of end-to-end AR solutions in 3D Commerce, Education, Events, and Industrial Manufacturing, Nextech AR is in a unique position to meet the needs of the worlds biggest brands and all Metaverse contributors.

Nextech funds the development of its AR and Metaverse growth initiatives through its e-Commerce platforms, which currently generate most of its revenue. Nextech's e-commerce platforms include: vacuumcleanermarket.com (VCM), infinitepetlife.com (IPL) and Trulyfesupplements.com (TruLyfe). VCM and product sales of residential vacuums, supplies and parts, and small home appliances sold on Amazon. These e-commerce platforms serve as an incubator for developing and testing Nextech's leading edge AR, AI and machine learning applications for powering next-generation e-commerce technology.

Forward-looking Statements

The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain information contained herein may constitute forward-looking information under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, will be or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results will occur. Forward-looking statements regarding the completion of the transaction are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Nextech will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

_______________________

1 https://www.shopify.ca/enterprise/augmented-reality-ecommerce-shopping

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005402/en/

Investor Relations Contact

Lindsay Betts

[email protected]

866-ARITIZE (274-8493) Ext 7201

Nextech AR Solutions Corp.

Evan Gappelberg

CEO and Director

866-ARITIZE (274-8493)

Source: Nextech AR Solutions Corp.
New Capabilities Continue Anomalis Focus to Enable Enterprise Organizations to Stay a Step Ahead of Adversaries

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Anomali, the leader in intelligence-driven cybersecurity solutions, announced the general availability today of its quarterly platform update to meet the expanding needs of its customers and partners. This release introduces new capabilities to enhance Anomalis threat intelligence and extended detection and response (XDR) use cases that enable enterprise organizations to stay one step ahead of adversaries and prevent business disruptions while optimizing security expenses.

Anomalis August release offers new capabilities and enhancements for security operations teams struggling to identify not only whos targeting them, but how and why they are being targeted, said Mark Alba, Chief Product Officer at Anomali.

Key highlights of this release include:

Creating Extended Visibility with Anomali Attack Pattern Detection and MITRE ATT&CK: In 2021, Anomali joined MITRE Engenuitys Center for Threat-Informed Defense to collaborate on the Attack Flow Project to better understand adversary behavior and improve defensive capabilities. This partnership culminated with the public release of the project in March 2022.

Since then, Anomali has been working to incorporate attack flows into The Anomali Platform. This release moves the platform toward an Attack Flow Library for Anomali ThreatStream that will provide an access point for new Attack Flows that sequence cyberattack techniques. This capability will provide a new context around adversary behavior and help security teams expertly profile the adversary. It will also enable them better to protect the organization in advance of an attack, detect an attack in real-time, and respond post-attack.

Furthermore, this predictive visual mapping will be leveraged by CISOs and security professionals to align attacks with potential holes in their security posture to get in front of the threat.

ESG research found that 97% of security professionals believe that MITRE ATT&CK is important to their organizations security operations strategy, said Jon Oltsik, Senior Principal Analyst and Fellow, ESG Research. Anomalis commitment to integrating the MITRE ATT&CK Framework into its solutions and participating in the MITRE Engenuity Center for Threat Informed Defense can help security teams adopt the framework and better understand cyber-adversaries.

Routine Workflow Automation: Given macro-economic conditions, customers are looking for capabilities that make their existing investments more impactful. Weve introduced a new extensible framework to support the automation of routine tasks throughout the platform. This release's first implementation is available to automate enrichments in the investigations workbench. A drag-and-drop process for configuring a multi-stage enrichment task can easily be set and run when conditions require it, saving analysts time performing repetitive tasks.

Additional enhancements with this platform release include:

Support for MITRE ATT&CK Mobile & ICS: Intelligence aggregation, contextualization, and analysis for Mobile and ICS attack surfaces to strengthen overall security posture.

Intelligence aggregation, contextualization, and analysis for Mobile and ICS attack surfaces to strengthen overall security posture. MITRE ATT&CK Enterprise v11 in Anomali Lens

in Anomali Lens Scheduled Retrospective Search: Helps the SOC automate the correlation of historical events with newly available intelligence to produce reports and gain insight into threat actors, TTPs, or other adversary behavior. This new capability enables CISOs to detect real-time threats in their local IT environment.

Anomali will be exhibiting at BlackHat on August 10 & 11, Booth #3034. Stop by to chat with the team and learn more about our intelligence-driven solutions.

About Anomali

Anomali is the leader in intelligence-driven extended detection and response (XDR) cybersecurity solutions. Anchored by big data management (the X) and refined by artificial intelligence, The Anomali Platform, an XDR solution, delivers unique proprietary capabilities that correlate the largest repository of global intelligence with telemetry from customer-deployed security solutions. This combination empowers security operations teams to accurately detect threats, optimize response, achieve resiliency, and ultimately stop attackers and breaches. Our SaaS-based solutions easily integrate into existing security tech stacks through native-cloud, multi-cloud, on-premises, and hybrid deployments. Founded in 2013, Anomali serves global B2B enterprise businesses, large public sector organizations, ISACs, ISAOs, service providers, and Global 1000 customers to help safeguard the worlds critical infrastructure, companies, and people. Leading venture firms, including Google Ventures, General Catalyst, and IVP, back Anomali. Learn more at www.anomali.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220808005789/en/

Karen Buffo

[email protected]

Source: Anomali
With less than 3% of the ocean effectively protected, stakeholders call for strengthening global efforts to protect at least 30% of our ocean with a focus on improving the management of existing areas, rather than promoting the establishment of new protection.

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The United Nations Ocean Conference 2022 took place from June 27 to July 1, in Lisbon, Portugal, and brought together more than 5,000 participants, including world leaders, entrepreneurs, youth, influencers, and scientists. The conference aimed to facilitate these stakeholders in finding science-driven innovations and solutions to respond to a multidimensional ocean crisis driven by climate change, overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005180/en/

The Nature Conservancy logo (Logo: The Nature Conservancy)

The Nature Conservancy (TNC), with support from Mary Kay Inc., held an event in collaboration with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Government of Ecuador, the Jocotoco Foundation, the Charles Darwin Foundation for the Galapagos Islands, Re:wild, and the Marine Conservation Institute.

TNC and UNEP moderated the event, highlighting the critical importance of ensuring quality Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) by enhancing governance, effective management, and climate resilience and the significant roles that communities, NGOs, governments, philanthropy, the private sector, and cross-sector collaborations play in effective MPAs.

The event stood out at the conference, as it emphasized the need to improve the management of existing areas, instead of promoting the establishment of new protection. As currently fewer than 3% of MPAs are effectively managed, the efficacy of these protective measures is essential to capitalize on their potential for both conservation and livelihoods.

Dr. Lizzie Mcleod of TNC noted, Effective management is foundational to achieving 30x30 commitmentsa campaign to protect 30 percent of the world's ocean by 2030. With support from Mary Kay, TNC, UNEP, and other partners, we are developing tools for marine managers to improve marine management, support sustainable financing, and guide marine habitat restoration. By leveraging innovation, new technologies, and global best practices, marine managers will be better able to tackle major threats facing our oceans.

MPAs are key to ocean health and sustainable development. But they are not always effective without a range of support. Decision support tools that enable improved MPA design and management, knowledge sharing, and collaboration are needed to give marine stakeholders the support they need to better protect the oceans, said Ole Vestergaard, Programme Officer in the Marine, Coastal & Freshwater Ecosystems Branch of Division for Environmental Policy Implementation at UNEP.

Mary Kays founder, Mary Kay Ash, believed that there are three types of people in this world: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who wonder what happened, said Deborah Gibbins, Chief Operating Officer at Mary Kay. Were honored to join forces with the first type of people to develop the tools and resources needed to protect our oceans for generations to come.

If we are to protect and restore ocean and coastal ecosystem services and revitalize ocean systems and secure our current livelihoods and humanitys future, we must improve the effectiveness of marine protected areas in achieving their conservation and sustainability goals in parallel to accelerating MPA coverage.

About The Nature Conservancy (TNC)

The Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our worlds toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters, and oceans at an unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably, and helping make cities more sustainable. Working in 79 countries and territories, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit www.nature.org or follow @nature_press on Twitter.

About the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

UNEP is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

About Mary Kay Inc.

One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty company in 1963 with one goal: enriching womens lives. That dream has blossomed into a multibillion-dollar company with millions of independent sales force members in nearly 40 countries. As an entrepreneurship development company, Mary Kay is committed to empowering women on their journey through education, mentorship, advocacy, networking, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in enriching lives today for a sustainable tomorrow, partnering with organizations from around the world focusing on promoting business excellence, supporting cancer research, advancing gender equality, protecting survivors of domestic abuse, beautifying our communities, and encouraging children to follow their dreams. Learn more at marykayglobal.com, find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on Twitter.

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Mary Kay Inc.

Corporate Communications

marykay.com/newsroom

972.687.5332 or [email protected]

The Nature Conservancy

Misty Edgecomb

Communications Director

[email protected] or 484-343-3223

United Nations Environment Programme

Laura Darby

Communications and Project Management for Innovative Conservation

[email protected]

Source: Mary Kay
First-ever report by the company highlights continued progress in initiatives that foster more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces.

PITTSBURGH--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- United States Steel Corporation (NYSE: X) (U. S. Steel) today published its first-ever Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) Report, which highlights its measurable progress and ongoing commitment to supporting diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces across its global operations.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220808005766/en/

The U. S. Steel Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Report recognizes that when we respect and value our differences and share common goals, we create an environment where our employees and our company can reach our fullest potential  together, said David B. Burritt, President and Chief Executive Officer for U. S. Steel. Thats why weve made DE&I a priority within our Best for All strategy, which aims to deliver profitable, sustainable steel solutions that are best for people and planet.

The report highlights how the company's DE&I initiatives are a cornerstone of moving up the talent curve in pursuit of its strategic Best for All initiatives.

Weve made important, measurable progress in our Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion strategy execution consistent with our core values associated with safety, trust and respect. We can  and will  continue to do more and be better because our work in this critical area is not done, said Barry Melnkovic, U. S. Steels Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. We have developed a multi-year approach to DE&I to guide us into the future, and this report is part of our journey to foster a true Culture of Caring with workplaces that work for all employees.

Highlights of U. S. Steels recent progress on DE&I as outlined in its Report include:

Launch of Talent Communities for women, veterans, and early career professionals that encourage candidates to share their resume and network on opportunities and upcoming events of interest.

Introduction of two new employee benefit programs, Emergency Dependent Backup Care and Online Tutoring, to help parents and caregivers gain the flexibility needed to be successful during the pandemic.

Creation of a People Analytics Diversity Suite to proactively benchmark and monitor diversity of applicants and forecast equity of hiring, promotion, and attrition while ensuring pay equity.

Deployment of unconscious bias training to help hiring managers understand, identify, and address how unconscious bias can influence decision making.

Benchmarking of our disability inclusion program in partnership with Disability:IN, the leading nonprofit resource for disability inclusion.

The company also marked progress through recognition earned by leading third-party organizations:

For three years in a row, U. S. Steel has received a 100% score on the Human Rights Campaign Foundations Corporate Equality Index, earning the Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality designation.

For two years in a row, U. S. Steel has been named to Disability:INs Disability Equality Index (DEI) and earned their Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion designation; in 2022, U. S. Steel earned the top score on the DEI for the first time.

U. S. Steel was recognized by Ethisphere as one of the 2022 Worlds Most Ethical Companies.

U. S. Steel has also been certified by Best Practice Institute as a Most Loved Workplace and named to Newsweeks 100 Most Loved Workplaces for 2021.

U. S. Steel was recognized as Leading on Leave for its enhanced bereavement policy by the National Partnership for Women and Families.

For more than 120 years, U. S. Steels success has been possible thanks to the hard work and creativity of our talented people. Today, were more committed than ever to creating diverse, inclusive and equitable work environments that serve the well-being of our employees and the communities where we operate. We continually strive to proactively meet the needs of our people. As those needs change, we continually reevaluate what we can do to best support them, said Mona Dine, General Manager of Talent Management & Corporate Human Resources at U. S. Steel.

To view the 2022 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Report, click here.

Founded in 1901, United States Steel Corporation is a leading steel producer. With an unwavering focus on safety, the Companys customer-centric Best for All strategy is advancing a more secure, sustainable future for U. S. Steel and its stakeholders. With a renewed emphasis on innovation, U. S. Steel serves the automotive, construction, appliance, energy, containers, and packaging industries with high value-added steel products such as U. S. Steels proprietary XG3 advanced high-strength steel. The Company also maintains competitively advantaged iron ore production and has an annual raw steelmaking capability of 22.4 million net tons. U. S. Steel is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with world-class operations across the United States and in Central Europe. For more information, please visit www.ussteel.com.

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Arista Joyner

Manager

Financial Communications

T  (412) 433-3994

E  [email protected]

Kevin Lewis

Vice President

Investor Relations

T  (412) 433-6935

E  [email protected]

Source: United States Steel Corporation
Revenue grew by 51% year-over-year to $21.8 million, and is the highest grossing quarter on record

Adjusted EBITDA increased by 54% year-over-year to $9.3 million

Free Cash Flow increased by 50% year-over-year to $7.2 million

Monthly Active Users Increased by 15% year-over-year to 109 million

Unless otherwise stated, all amounts are in U.S. dollars.

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- VerticalScope Holdings Inc. (VerticalScope or the Company) (TSX: FORA), a technology company that has built and operates a cloud-based digital platform for online enthusiast communities, today announced financial results for the second quarter (Q2) ended June 30, 2022.

I am incredibly proud of what our team accomplished this quarter and in our first full year as a public company, commented Rob Laidlaw, Founder and CEO of VerticalScope. We have delivered on our promises and we are seeing the results of our efforts reflected in our Q2 numbers. Revenue growth accelerated in the quarter and was up 51% compared to prior year and was the best quarter weve ever had at $21.8 million. The power of our business model is proving itself and its showing up in our bottom line. Even with the investments we are making in our platform, Adjusted EBITDA was up 51% to $9.3 million in the quarter. Our advertising customers continue to see the incredible value of our intent-based niche audiences and the real business results that our platform can achieve for them. Advertising revenue was up 43% with double-digit growth in both direct and programmatic. We are particularly pleased with the results of our e-commerce business in the quarter which achieved 68% growth. We are still in the early innings of unlocking the tremendous value that exists within our communities.

Financial Highlights for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2022. All comparatives, unless otherwise noted are versus the same period in the prior year:

Q2 revenue grew 51% year over year to a record breaking $21.8 million driven by aggressive growth contributions from both Digital Advertising and E-commerce channels. Quarterly revenue growth of 51% accelerated from the 26% year-over-year growth realized for the three months ended March 31, 2022.

Digital Advertising revenue in Q2 grew by 43% to $14.2 million, an increase of $4.3 million compared to Q2 of last year driven by double digit growth contributions from both Programmatic and Direct advertisers.

The growth in E-commerce revenue we started to experience in March 2022 accelerated in Q2, with the channel posting 68% year-over-year growth in the quarter and recognizing $7.6 million in revenue.

Adjusted EBITDA grew to $9.3 million in Q2, up 54% year over year driven by top line revenue growth. Adjusted EBITDA margin was 43% in the quarter, an increase of 1 percentage point compared to prior year. Adjusted EBITDA for the twelve months ended June 30, 2022 grew to $31.9 million.

Free Cash Flow generated in the quarter was $7.2 million, an increase of $2.5 million, or 51% year over year, and resulting in a strong Free Cash Flow Conversion of 78% .

Net loss in the quarter was $7.0 million, compared to a net loss of $4.4 million in the prior year. The less favorable position is largely driven by incremental expenses associated with acquisitions, specifically amortization and the revaluation of contingent considerations totaling $8.8 million in the quarter

For the three months ended June 30, 2022, we signed and closed a total of 4 acquisitions, all asset deals, for a total consideration of $2.8 million.

Laidlaw added, MAU trends continued to improve throughout Q2, with overall growth of 15% to achieve 109 million MAU. On an organic basis, we saw a decline of 4.4% in line with our expectations. Despite the difficult macro environment that we face, we remain optimistic about our investments continuing to drive growth in both advertising and ecommerce in the 2nd half of this year. Our profitable financial model is a differentiator, and will position VerticalScope very well to navigate any economic headwinds that may arise.

Chris Goodridge, President and COO, commented that, Four acquisitions were completed in Q2 with $2.8 million in total cash consideration paid and covering niche interest categories in home, cooking and outdoors. In the current macro environment we will continue to be judicious in our capital deployment decisions but will act quickly when strategic fit and valuation align. Our pipeline and financial capacity remain very strong.

Earnings Announcement

Management will host a conference call and webcast to discuss the Company's financial results at 8:00 am EST on Wednesday, August 10, 2022.

Live Call Registration and Webcast:

https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/853034064

Joining by telephone:

Canada: 1 833 950 0062

United States: 1 844 200 6205

All other locations: +1 929 526 1599

Participant Access code: 124042

If you are unable to join live, an archived recording of the webcast will be available on the investor relations section of the VerticalScope website.

About VerticalScope

Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, VerticalScope is a technology company that has built and operates a cloud-based digital platform for online enthusiast communities in high-consumer spending categories. VerticalScope's mission is to enable people with common interests to connect, explore their passions and share knowledge about the things they love. Through targeted acquisitions and development, VerticalScope has built a portfolio of over 1,200 online communities and over 100 million monthly active users. VerticalScope is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: FORA).

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation that reflects the Company's current expectations regarding future events. When used in this news release, words such as should, could, intended, expect, plan or believe and similar expressions indicate forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information, including the Companys plans for organic growth and financially accretive M&A, deployment of capital, investments in our platform, performance of the Companys acquisitions and the growth of revenue and MAU, is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Although the Company believes that its expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties and no assurances can be given that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the factors discussed under "Risk Factors" in the Companys Annual Information Form dated March 31, 2022, which is available on the Companys profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Actual results could differ materially from those projected herein. VerticalScope does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required under applicable securities laws.

Non-IFRS Measures

This press release references certain non-IFRS measures, including Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow, and Free Cash Flow Conversion as described below. This press release also makes reference to Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) and MAU, which are operating metrics used in our industry. These non-IFRS measures are not recognized measures under IFRS and do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Rather, these measures are provided as additional information to complement those IFRS measures by providing further understanding of the Companys results of operations from managements perspective. Accordingly, these measures should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for analysis of the Companys financial information reported under IFRS.

The Company uses non-IFRS measures including:

Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as net income (loss) excluding interest, income tax expense (recovery), and depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, adjusted for share-based compensation, share performance related bonuses, unrealized gains or losses from changes in fair value of derivative financial instruments, severance, contingent consideration liabilities measured at fair value through profit and loss, gain or loss on sale of assets, gain or loss on sale of investments, foreign exchange loss (gain), impairment and other charges that include direct and incremental business acquisition related costs and costs directly incurred in connection with the Offering that are not deducted from the equity proceeds.

Free Cash Flow means Adjusted EBITDA less capital expenditures and income taxes paid during the period.

"Free Cash Flow Conversion" is equal to Free Cash Flow for the period divided by Adjusted EBITDA for the period.

Monthly Active Users (MAU) is defined as the number of individuals who have visited our communities within a calendar month, based on data as measured by Google Analytics. To calculate average MAU in a given period, we sum the total MAU for each month in that period, divided by the number of months in that period.

Average Revenue Per Monthly Active User (ARPU) is defined as our average revenue over a given period divided by the average MAU over the same period. Similarly, each of our revenue streams can be used as the numerator in this measure to determine the ARPU for each revenue stream. We believe that measuring ARPU is reflective of how we are monetizing the users across our communities.

The following table sets forth a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash Flow to net income (loss):

Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, (in thousands of US dollars) 2022 2021 2022 2021 Net Income (loss) ($7,001 ) ($4,357 ) ($18,872 ) ($3,509 ) Interest expense 658 3,416 1,237 4,510 Income tax expense (recovery) (380 ) (1,315 ) (1,573 ) (849 ) Depreciation and amortization 10,055 4,517 19,816 9,100 EBITDA 3,331 2,262 608 9,252 Share-based compensation 2,816 566 5,669 1,032 Share performance related bonuses (690 )  (793 )  Unrealized loss (gain) from changes in derivative fair value of financial instruments 76 17 44 71 Severance  10  634 105 Loss (gain) on sale of assets (4 ) 2 7 2 Foreign exchange loss 29 57 60 113 Adjustment to contingent considerations 3,239  8,866  Other Charges  508 3,142 1,503 3,145 Adjusted EBITDA 9,316 6,045 16,598 13,719 Less capital expenditures (1,548 ) (1,207 ) (3,220 ) (2,443 ) Income taxes received (paid) (477 ) (25 ) (531 ) 23 Free Cash Flow $7,291 $4,813 $12,846 $11,299

(1) Severance is included in wages and consulting on the consolidated statements of loss and comprehensive loss. (2) Other charges are included in wages and consulting and general and administrative on the consolidated statements of loss and comprehensive loss. For the three months ended June 30, 2022, these charges include direct and incremental asset acquisition or business acquisition related costs.

VERTICALSCOPE HOLDINGS INC.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Financial Position

(In U.S. dollars)

(Unaudited) June 30, December 31, 2022 2021 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $10,454,719 $20,494,313 Restricted cash 166,615 179,743 Trade and other receivables 15,134,235 15,221,610 Lease receivable 591,740 588,101 Income taxes receivable  317,040 Prepaid expenses 1,900,728 1,103,283 Derivative instruments  18,325 28,248,037 37,922,415 Property and equipment 1,207,049 986,683 Right-of-use asset 2,173,636 2,629,130 Intangible assets 86,211,304 98,805,989 Investments 1,000,000 1,000,000 Goodwill 52,950,295 53,436,546 Deferred tax asset 22,820,264 20,662,839 Lease receivable 1,279,216 1,586,014 Total assets $195,889,801 $217,029,616 Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $7,750,581 $9,948,758 Income taxes payable 1,990,264 1,075,699 Derivative instruments 25,721  Deferred revenue 991,095 1,028,515 Current portion of long-term debt 3,260,340 3,150,663 Lease liability 1,197,196 1,200,836 Contingent considerations 14,699,620 7,916,259 29,914,817 24,320,730 Deferred revenue 7,450 13,917 Long-term debt 61,722,921 75,972,078 Lease liability 3,146,719 3,734,829 Deferred tax liability 10,102,800 11,281,781 Contingent considerations 7,546,463 5,463,741 Total liabilities 112,441,170 120,787,076 Shareholders' equity: Share capital 160,934,759 160,182,417 Contributed surplus 20,899,469 15,568,994 Accumulated other comprehensive income (1,427 ) 3,327 Deficit (98,384,170 ) (79,512,198 ) 83,448,631 96,242,540 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $195,889,801 $217,029,616

VERTICALSCOPE HOLDINGS INC.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Income and Comprehensive Income

(In U.S. dollars, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited) Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, 2022 2021 2022 2021 Revenue $21,768,721 $14,423,474 $41,817,114 $30,341,866 Operating expenses: Wages and consulting 8,455,869 5,692,682 18,228,747 11,712,543 Share-based compensation 2,815,783 566,222 5,668,699 1,031,841 Platform and technology 2,199,450 1,728,838 4,367,961 3,371,638 General and administrative 1,702,474 4,115,181 4,010,529 4,859,335 Depreciation and amortization 10,054,727 4,516,971 19,816,413 9,099,904 Adjustment to contingent considerations 3,238,838  8,866,083  28,467,141 16,619,894 60,958,432 30,075,261 Operating income (loss) (6,698,420 ) (2,196,420 ) (19,141,318 ) 266,605 Other expenses: Loss (gain) on sale of assets (4,129 ) 1,687 7,128 1,856 Interest expense 657,797 3,416,472 1,236,702 4,509,978 Foreign exchange loss (gain) 29,412 57,158 60,220 113,024 683,080 3,475,317 1,304,050 4,624,858 Loss before income taxes (7,381,500 ) (5,671,737 ) (20,445,368 ) (4,358,253 ) Income taxes (recovery) Current 1,111,552 308,111 1,763,010 319,014 Deferred (1,491,683 ) (1,622,711 ) (3,336,406 ) (1,168,179 ) (380,131 ) (1,314,600 ) (1,573,396 ) (849,165 ) Net income (loss) ($7,001,369 ) ($4,357,137 ) ($18,871,972 ) ($3,509,088 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) Items that may be reclassified to net income (loss): Foreign currency differences on translation of foreign operations 24,534 (2,647 ) (4,754 ) 3,546 Total comprehensive income (loss) ($6,976,835 ) ($4,359,784 ) ($18,876,726 ) ($3,505,542 ) Income (loss) per share: Basic ($0.33 ) ($0.24 ) ($0.89 ) ($0.18 ) Diluted (0.33 ) (0.24 ) (0.89 ) (0.18 )

VERTICALSCOPE HOLDINGS INC.

Condensed Consolidated Interim Statement of Cash Flows

(In U.S. dollars)

(Unaudited) Three Months Ended

June 30, Six Months Ended

June 30, 2022 2021 2022 2021 Cash provided by (used in): Operating activities: Income (loss) for the year ($7,001,369 ) ($4,357,137 ) ($18,871,972 ) ($3,509,088 ) Items not involving cash: Depreciation and amortization 10,054,727 4,516,971 19,816,413 9,099,904 Interest expense 657,797 3,416,472 1,236,702 4,509,978 Loss (gain) on sale of assets (4,129 ) 1,687 7,128 1,856 Unrealized loss (gain) in derivative instruments 76,251 16,998 44,046 70,676 Income tax expense (recovery) (380,131 ) (1,314,600 ) (1,573,396 ) (849,165 ) Adjustment to contingent considerations 3,238,838  8,866,083  Share-based compensation 2,815,783 566,222 5,668,699 1,031,841 9,457,767 2,846,613 15,193,703 10,356,002 Change in non-cash operating assets and liabilities (2,271,881 ) 3,051,700 (2,137,371 ) 6,578,683 Interest paid (989,569 ) (1,679,953 ) (1,514,942 ) (1,754,328 ) Income taxes paid (476,711 ) (25,424 ) (531,405 ) 23,313 5,719,606 4,192,936 11,009,985 15,203,670 Financing activities: Repayment of initial term loan (625,000 ) (42,812,500 ) (1,250,000 ) (44,875,000 ) Repayment of delayed draw term loan  (1,072,334 )  (7,714,977 ) Repayment of revolving loan (12,500,000 )  (12,500,000 )  Proceeds from issuance of share capital  96,025,355  96,025,355 Proceeds from exercise of share options 186,477 156,250 186,477 156,250 Credit facility financing fees  (1,274,597 )  (1,274,597 ) Lease payments (151,708 ) (235,949 ) (313,767 ) (453,706 ) (13,090,231 ) 50,786,225 (13,877,290 ) 41,863,325 Investing activities: Additions to property and equipment, right-of-use and intangible assets (4,376,125 ) (4,705,897 ) (7,043,224 ) (5,942,168 ) Proceeds from sale of assets 19,619 5,433 26,734 8,196 Acquisitions (56,457 )  (56,457 )  (4,412,963 ) (4,700,464 ) (7,072,947 ) (5,933,972 ) Increase (decrease) in cash (11,783,588 ) 50,278,697 (9,940,252 ) 51,133,023 Cash, beginning of the period 22,363,135 5,466,211 20,494,313 4,603,609 Change in restricted cash balances 10,133  13,128  Effect of movement of exchange rates on cash held (134,961 ) (228,233 ) (112,470 ) (219,957 ) Cash, end of period $10,454,719 $55,516,675 $10,454,719 $55,516,675

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809006043/en/

Investor and media inquiries:

Chris Goodridge, President and COO

Tel: 416-341-7174, [email protected]

Related Links

http://www.verticalscope.com

Source: VerticalScope Holdings Inc.
Leading Enterprise Automation Platform ranks Among the World's Top Private Cloud Companies

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Workato, the leading enterprise automation platform, has been named to the Forbes 2022 Cloud 100, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures.

We are again honored to be on the Cloud 100 list. This is a testament to our team and to many of our customers and partners who we are excited to share this honor with," said Vijay Tella, co-founder, and CEO of Workato. Enterprise Automation has been gaining momentum with companies across industries. Over this past year, we saw companies increase their automations by 3x and are seeing that trend accelerate as companies look to get more efficient and innovative in this challenging economic environment."

For the seventh straight year, the Cloud 100 reviews submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies each year. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people & culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help of a judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers.

The companies of the Cloud 100 list represent the best and brightest private companies in this fast-growing sector, said Alex Konrad, senior editor at Forbes. Every year, it gets more difficult to make this list  meaning even more elite company for those who do. Congratulations to each of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees.

The public markets may be in turmoil, but the private valuations of the Cloud 100 continue to rise. All of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees, again, have reached the $1 billion valuation milestone, and the average Cloud 100 valuation has skyrocketed to $7.4 billion, said Mary DOnofrio, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners. Despite the market correction in 2022, our confidence in the cloud economy continues to growtoday over 70% of the 2022 Cloud 100 Honorees have reached or exceeded $100 million in annual recurring revenue making them cloud Centaurs. An additional 10% of the list is expected to hit this milestone by the end of the year, furthering our conviction that this years honorees truly represent the best cloud companies globally.

Great companies are born out of all environments, and its exciting to see the continued momentum in the cloud sector, said Alex Kayyal, Managing Partner, Salesforce Ventures. The companies on this list have gone through a rigorous selection process, and join an esteemed alumni list of Cloud 100 companies. As the need for digital transformation continues to drive innovation and efficiencies across industries, we can look to these companies as the absolute best in cloud computing.

This past year has been marked by significant milestones for Workato, showcasing its rapid growth and the continued demand for automation. Valued at $5.7 billion, the company held its second annual user conference, Automate 2022, which saw a 150% increase in registrations year over year, was named to the 2022 CNBC Disruptor 50 list, and became Great Place to Work-Certified, making the organizations Best Workplace in the Bay Area, Best Workplaces for Millennials, and Best Medium Workplaces lists. Workato doubled down on its commitment to security and governance by introducing Workato Enterprise Key Management (EKM) for its customers. The company also expanded its investment in the APJ region, first by launching its own Indian subsidiary, addressing the growing automation demand in the India market, and second was accredited by the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore (IMDA).

The Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 and 20 Rising Stars lists are published online at www.forbes.com/cloud100. Highlights of the list appear in the August/September 2022 issue of Forbes magazine.

To learn more about Workato and the future of enterprise automation, please visit www.workato.com.

About Workato

The leader in enterprise automation, Workato helps organizations work faster and smarter without compromising security and governance. Built for Business and IT users, Workato is trusted by over 17,000 of the world's top brands, including Broadcom, Intuit, and Box. Headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., Workato is backed by Altimeter Capital, Battery Ventures, Insight Venture Partners, Tiger Global, and Redpoint Ventures. For more information, visit workato.com or connect with us on social media:

Bessemer Venture Partners

Bessemer Venture Partners helps entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to build and forge long-standing companies. With more than 135 IPOs and 200 portfolio companies in the enterprise, consumer, and healthcare spaces, Bessemer supports founders and CEOs from their early days through every stage of growth. Bessemers global portfolio includes Pinterest, Shopify, Twilio, Yelp, LinkedIn, PagerDuty, DocuSign, Wix, Fiverr, and Toast, and has $19 billion of regulatory assets under management. Bessemer has teams of investors and partners located in Tel Aviv, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York, London, Boston, Beijing, and Bangalore. Born from innovations in steel more than a century ago, Bessemers storied history has afforded its partners the opportunity to celebrate and scrutinize its best investment decisions (see Memos) and also learn from its mistakes (see Anti-Portfolio).

About Forbes

Forbes champions success by celebrating those who have made it, and those who aspire to make it. Forbes convenes and curates the most influential leaders and entrepreneurs who are driving change, transforming business, and making a significant impact on the world. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 150 million people worldwide through its trusted journalism, signature LIVE and Forbes Virtual events, custom marketing programs, and 47 licensed local editions in 80 countries. Forbes Medias brand extensions include real estate, education, and financial services license agreements.

Salesforce Ventures

Salesforce Ventures helps enterprising founders build companies that reinvent the way the world works. Since 2009, weve invested in and partnered with more than 400 of the worlds most tenacious enterprise software companies from seed to IPO, including Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, Guild Education, Hopin, monday.com, nCino, Snowflake, Snyk, Stripe, Tanium, and Zoom. Salesforce Ventures leverages our decades of expertise in the cloud and our long-term relationships with key decision-makers at thousands of businesses around the world to give our portfolio companies an unfair advantage, help them build credibility, and accelerate growth. Salesforce Ventures has invested in more than 25 countries with offices all over the world including in San Francisco, Irvine, New York, London, Tokyo, and Sydney. Follow @SalesforceVC and learn more at http://www.salesforceventures.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005765/en/

Joseph Hollister

Communications Manager

[email protected]

Source: Workato
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE: AJG) today announced that its U.S. wholesale brokerage, binding authority and programs division, Risk Placement Services, Inc. (RPS), has acquired Hillsboro, Oregon-based Evergreen Insurance Managers Inc. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 2006, Evergreen Insurance Managers is a wholesale insurance broker and managing general agency offering commercial insurance solutions for a wide variety of industries. The team serves clients throughout the Pacific Northwest. Dyan Bates, Nancy Schultz and their associates will remain in their current location under the direction of Kevin Doyle, VP-Western Region & Chicago for Risk Placement Services, Inc. (RPS).

"The Evergreen team expands RPS's presence into the greater Portland market and offers us new growth opportunities in the Pacific Northwest," said J. Patrick Gallagher, Jr., Chairman, President and CEO of Gallagher. "Their client-first philosophy complements our own, and I am delighted to welcome Dyan, Nancy and their associates to our growing global company."

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE: AJG), a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm, is headquartered in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Gallagher provides these services in approximately 130 countries around the world through its owned operations and a network of correspondent brokers and consultants.

Investors: Ray Iardella Media: Kelli Murray VP - Investor Relations Director  Global Media Relations 630-285-3661 / [email protected] 847-273-3896/ [email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/arthur-j-gallagher--co-acquires-evergreen-insurance-managers-inc-301602284.html

SOURCE Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
FILE PHOTO: The Boeing logo is seen on the side of a Boeing 737 MAX at the Farnborough International Airshow, in Farnborough, Britain, July 20, 2022. REUTERS/Peter Cziborra/File Photo

By Tim Hepher

(Reuters) - Boeing jetliner deliveries fell to a five-month low of 26 airplanes in July, highlighting pressure on global supply chains as it prepares to resume deliveries of the 787 Dreamliner.

The U.S. planemaker said monthly deliveries included 23 737 MAX jets and three wide-body freighters, bringing MAX deliveries so far this year to 212 jets and total deliveries to 242.

The figures do not include the imminent resumption of 787 Dreamliner deliveries after a year-long suspension over production issues.

Shares of Boeing fell as much as 1.7% before paring losses to trade about flat.

The U.S. government on Monday approved the first 787 delivery since May 2021, people briefed on the matter said.

July's Boeing data does, however, underscore industrial snags testing the aerospace industry after Airbus reported lower July deliveries on Monday.

At roughly half the 51 handovers seen in the previous month, Boeing's July deliveries suffered the sharpest sequential drop since before the 737 MAX was cleared to return to service in December 2020, following a safety grounding.

GRAPHIC: Slowing down (https://graphics.reuters.com/BOEING-DELIVERIES/lgpdwynwkvo/chart.png)

Deliveries have nonetheless fluctuated significantly this year and June had seen a sharp swing towards the upside.

Chief Financial Officer Brian West anticipated a "light" July when he outlined three worries for the 737 during earnings last week: supply chains, delays in getting planes out of storage and an effective freeze on deliveries to China.

He told analysts that Boeing would not fully make up for lower-than-expected first-half deliveries in the second half and added: "We'll continue to experience monthly variability".

GRAPHIC:Tepid July (https://graphics.reuters.com/BOEING-DELIVERIES/xmvjomrojpr/chart.png)

NEW ORDERS

Boeing, meanwhile, saw a surge of new business in July as it officially booked orders announced at the Farnborough Airshow, where it focused on shoring up the 737 MAX 10, as the aircraft faces uncertainty over a certification deadline.

Boeing confirmed orders for a total of 125 MAX from Delta Air Lines and Qatar Airways as well as two 777 freighters for Air Canada. It added fresh orders for two MAX from American Airlines and a 777 freighter from FedEx.

That brings Boeing's gross orders to 130 airplanes for July and 416 for the year so far.

After cancellations of four planes in July, Boeing posted core net orders of 126 planes in July and 312 for the year to date.

Airbus earlier reported comparable year-to-date net orders of 656 airplanes after a major deal with China.

GRAPHIC: Airbus widens delivery lead (https://graphics.reuters.com/BOEING-DELIVERIES/gdvzyodylpw/chart.png)

After further accounting adjustments, Boeing said it had reached adjusted net orders of 362 planes so far this year.

The adjustments reflect a more positive view on some outstanding contracts as travel demand returns.

Boeing restored a net total of 31 planes to its normal operational backlog in July after they had previously been set aside in a category reserved for jets unlikely to be delivered.

Airbus carries out similar quality adjustments to its backlog annually rather than monthly, and logs them in terms of value rather than volume, so a comparison is not available.

GRAPHIC: Airbus pulls ahead owing to China orders (https://graphics.reuters.com/BOEING-DELIVERIES/lgvdwynkkpo/chart.png)

Boeing has sold a total of 5,206 jets that are still waiting for delivery in coming years, or 4,370 after including the accounting adjustments for planes seen unlikely to be delivered.

(Reporting by Tim Hepher Additional reporting by Abhijith Ganapavaram and David Shepardson; Editing by Mark Potter and Krishna Chandra Eluri)
Borr Drilling Limited (the "Company") (NYSE and OSE: BORR) announces today that it plans to make a public offering of $250,000,000 of its common shares in the United States. In connection with the offering, the Company intends to grant the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to $25,000,000 of additional common shares.

No securities in the NYSE offering will be offered or listed on Oslo Stock Exchange.

The Company plans to use the proceeds from the offering to consummate a refinancing with its lenders under its Syndicated Facility, New Bridge Facility, Hayfin Facility and shipyard delivery financing arrangements with Keppel and PPL, and for general corporate purposes, which may include, among other things, repayments of the Company's debt obligations, payments to its creditors in return for potential concessions or extensions of current facilities, capital expenditures, including costs in connection with activations and re-activations of rigs being brought into operations, or funding of our working capital.

DNB Markets, Clarksons Securities, Pareto Securities, ABG Sundal Collier ASA, Arctic Securities AS, Fearnley Securities and SpareBank 1 Markets are the book-running managers for the offering. Cleaves Securities AS is a co-manager for the offering.

Closing of the offering will be subject to (i) the Company's authorized share capital being increased by 40,000,000 common shares, pursuant to a special general meeting to be held on August 16, 2022, (ii) the Company's authorized share capital being further increased by 35,000,000 common shares pursuant to a second special general meeting to be held on August 25, 2022, and (iii) the Company having entered into binding term sheets or other binding agreements with all applicable lenders or obtaining written commitments approved by the Company's Board of Directors, under its Syndicated Facility, New Bridge Facility, Hayfin Facility and shipyard delivery financing arrangements with Keppel and PPL, no later than the time of the special general meeting to be held on August 16, 2022.

A first settlement of the offering is expected on August 17, 2022, subject to fulfilment of the conditions described in (i) and (iii) above. A second settlement is expected on August 26, 2022, for the remainder of the shares, provided all the conditions described above are satisfied.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, nor will there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

This stock exchange notice was published by Andreas Lavik Lie, Vice President Treasury & Investor Relations of the Company, on 9 August 2022 at 22:45 CEST.
The Brinks Company (NYSE: BCO) today announced that Kurt McMaken will join the company on August 24, 2022, as executive vice president and chief financial officer.

Ron Domanico, who has served as the companys chief financial officer since 2016, will remain at Brinks to support the transition. He will continue as president of Brinks Capital, LLC, the entity that helps provide funding for the companys digital cash retail solutions, and lead the companys recently established Sustainability Program until his planned retirement in June 2023.

Mark Eubanks, president and CEO, said: We are pleased to have found such an able successor to Ron, who has been instrumental to Brinks success in leading the execution of our value creation strategy. Im confident that Brinks Capital and our Sustainability Program, which are key components of Brinks strategy, will continue to benefit from Rons dedicated oversight. Kurt is a transformational finance leader, accustomed to leading complex global finance, planning and digital strategy functions. He has a proven track record in achieving margin expansion through growth, portfolio actions and improved productivity.

McMaken will join the executive leadership team and report to Eubanks.

Brinks has a strong global reputation and brand based on a rich heritage, said McMaken. I look forward to working with the team to deliver continued growth and value for company stakeholders amid a dynamic and exciting time in the companys long history.

McMaken joins Brinks from Eaton Corporation plc, an intelligent power management company, where he served in a number of financial and management positions since 2001. He most recently served as senior vice president, operations finance and transformation, and as an officer of the company and member of the CEOs senior leadership committee. During his tenure, he also served as president of the companys operations in Europe, Middle East and Africa, which he oversaw from a post in Morges, Switzerland.

He started his career in Audit & Business Advisory Services at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP for seven years, which included a two-year assignment in Baku, Azerbaijan. McMaken holds a bachelors degree in business administration and accounting from Georgetown University and an MBA in strategy and finance from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
Huntsman Corporation (NYSE: HUN) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Textile Effects division to Archroma, a portfolio company of SK Capital Partners. The total enterprise value of the transaction is approximately $718 million, which includes the assumption of approximately $125 million in net underfunded pension liabilities as of December 31, 2021. The acquisition is being partially funded with preferred equity, of which Huntsman is taking up to $80 million, an amount SK Capital Partners will seek to syndicate prior to the transaction closing.

Over the last twelve months ending June 30, 2022, the Textile Effects division reported sales of $772 million and adjusted EBITDA of $94 million. Huntsman anticipates cash taxes on the transaction of approximately $50 million. Huntsman intends to report Textile Effects as discontinued operations beginning in the third quarter of 2022. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the first half of 2023.

Peter Huntsman, Chairman, President, and CEO commented:

"Over the past seven months, we have conducted a comprehensive strategic review of our Textile Effects division, including detailed discussions with a wide range of relevant parties. After evaluating several different options and thoroughly reviewing prospective offers for the business, our Board of Directors decided that SK Capital would be a better owner of the business over the long-term than Huntsman and that the value they offered was in the best interests of our shareholders. After closing, Textile Effects will combine with SK Capital's Archroma business to create a world leader in textile chemicals and dyes, with a leadership in sustainability and innovation.

"We expect the cash proceeds from this divestiture to be deployed in-line with our current balanced capital allocation program which includes strategic investments and acquisitions to further strengthen our core businesses as well as returning cash to shareholders through both our dividend and share repurchase program."

BofA Securities is serving as Huntsman's financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP is acting as its legal advisor.
MiX Telematics (JSE: MIX, NYSE: MIXT), a leading global provider of connected fleet and mobile asset management solutions, is collaborating with Hino Trucks' Edge to become an authorized Hino data services partner.

This collaboration will provide MiX customers in North America that operate Hino trucks with rich data sets, informing intelligent decision-making regarding vehicle maintenance, safety, efficiency, and compliance. It also removes the need for the installation of aftermarket hardware in associated vehicles.

"The future of commercial vehicle telematics lies in successful OEM integrations," says Charles Tasker, Chief Operating Officer at MiX Telematics. "MiX is rapidly accelerating working with leading vehicle OEMs to ensure clients can easily access rich data needed to optimize fleet and driver safety."

Whilst OEM telematics won't replace all telematics hardware capabilities, there is an increasing demand for telematics software that's augmented by additional capabilities and robust data analytics.

Hino Trucks' Senior Vice President Customer Experience, Glenn Ellis had to say, "We are pleased to add MiX Telematics as a data service partner. Our Edge telematics open platform allows partners like MiX Telematics to access core vehicle data to enhance the operational and actionable analytics they provide their customers through the MiX Telematics platform."
Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator, today announced that Dwayne Cowan has been appointed as president of Thermo King Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) and Global Marine, Air and Rail, effective August 1. He will report directly to chair and CEO, Dave Regnery, and join the Enterprise Leadership Team as a corporate officer of the company.

Dwayne is an outstanding leader with extensive experience in our Thermo King business, who has a reputation for delivering business growth while keeping customers front and center and creating an uplifting and inclusive culture for his team, said Regnery. He will continue to expand Thermo Kings role as a market leader in delivering sustainable refrigerated transport solutions, including our goal to provide fully electric products in every segment of the cold chain in EMEA by 2023.

Dwayne most recently served as vice president of sales and service for Thermo King Americas. Since joining Thermo King in 2006, he has worked in roles of increasing leadership responsibility, including district and regional sales and product management positions. He has a track record of achieving substantial business growth through diverse market conditions and meeting customers evolving needs through innovative solutions. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in biological engineering from the University of Georgia College of Engineering and an MBA from Arizona State University.

Thermo King is an industry leader in refrigerated transport, and Im thrilled to take on this new role during an exciting time, when were helping to transform the industry for a more sustainable future, while bringing new and innovative solutions to our EMEA customers, said Cowan.

Cowan will be based in Brussels. He succeeds Francesco Incalza, who will return to the U.S. as vice president of Audit Services, reporting to chief financial officer Chris Kuehn and the Audit Committee of the Trane Technologies Board of Directors.

About Trane Technologies

Trane Technologies is a global climate innovator. Through our strategic brands Trane and Thermo King, and our portfolio of environmentally responsible products and services, we bring efficient and sustainable climate solutions to buildings, homes and transportation. For more on Trane Technologies, visit tranetechnologies.com.

About Thermo King

Thermo King  by Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT), a global climate innovator  is a worldwide leader in sustainable transport temperature control solutions. Thermo King has been providing transport temperature control solutions for a variety of applications, including trailers, truck bodies, buses, air, shipboard containers, and railway cars since 1938. For more information, visit www.thermoking.com or www.europe.thermoking.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220809005024/en/

Media Contact:



Jennifer Regina



+1-704-712-5721



[email protected]

Investors Contact:



Zachary Nagle



+1 704-990-3913



[email protected]

Source: Trane Technologies
FILE PHOTO: The Boeing logo is displayed on a screen, at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in New York, U.S., August 7, 2019. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. government on Monday approved the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner for delivery since 2021, clearing the way for American Airlines to take possession, people briefed on the matter told Reuters.

American Airlines said it expects to receive its first Boeing 787 delivery of the year as early as Wednesday and that the plane will enter commercial service in the coming weeks. The plane is its first 787 delivery since April 2021.

Earlier on Monday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said it expected Boeing to resume deliveries of its 787 in coming days after the manufacturer made inspection and retrofit changes needed to meet certification standards.

Boeing halted deliveries in May 2021 after the FAA raised concerns about its proposed inspection method. In September 2020, the FAA said it was investigating manufacturing flaws in some 787 jetliners.

American Airlines said on a July earnings call it expects to receive nine 787s this year, including two in early August. It has 42 on order, excluding the plane it expects to receive this week.

Boeing said it continues "to work transparently with the FAA and our customers towards resuming 787 deliveries.

Last month, the FAA approved Boeing's plan for specific inspections to verify the airplane meets requirements and that all retrofit work has been completed.

Boeing has about 120 787s awaiting delivery. The FAA said it "will inspect each aircraft before an airworthiness certificate is issued and cleared for delivery." Typically the FAA delegates airplane ticketing authority to the manufacturer but in some instances like the 737 MAX it has retained responsibility for approving each new airplane.

In the aftermath of two fatal 737 MAX crashes in 2018 and 2019, the FAA pledged to more closely scrutinize Boeing and delegate fewer responsibilities to Boeing for aircraft certification.

On Thursday, Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen met with FAA safety inspectors in South Carolina as the agency mulled whether to allow Boeing to resume 787 deliveries.

Before Boeing suspended production, the FAA had previously issued two airworthiness directives to address production issues for in-service airplanes. It identified a new issue in July 2021.

The planemaker had resumed deliveries in March 2021 after a five-month hiatus before halting them again. The FAA said earlier it wanted Boeing to ensure it "has a robust plan for the re-work that it must perform on a large volume of new 787s in storage" and that "Boeings delivery processes are stable."

In January, Boeing disclosed a $3.5 billion charge due to 787 delivery delays and customer concessions, and another $1 billion in abnormal production costs stemming from production flaws and related repairs and inspections.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Mark Porter, Cynthia Osterman and David Gregorio)
FILE PHOTO: A representation of the cryptocurrency is seen in front of Coinbase logo in this illustration taken, March 4, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

By Mehnaz Yasmin

(Reuters) -Coinbase Global Inc reported a larger-than-expected quarterly loss as investors worried by this year's rout in risky assets shied away from trading in cryptocurrencies, sending its shares down 6% after the bell on Tuesday.

Trading volumes at the cryptocurrency exchange more than halved to $217 billion in the second quarter, with retail participation sinking 68% and institutional trading falling 46%.

Coinbase said it expects trading volumes to fall further in the current quarter, underscoring the turmoil brought to the sector by the collapse of certain crypto ventures and a broader selloff in financial markets.

That downturn has sent bellwether bitcoin 50% lower in 2022, forced several companies including Coinbase to cut jobs and raised fears of a drop in interest from small traders.

Coinbase said its monthly transacting users fell 2% sequentially to 9 million in the April-June quarter.

"Coinbase did not see a mass migration off its platform during the quarter, but its users are becoming more passive in their cryptocurrency investing," said Michael Miller, equity analyst at Morningstar Research.

That could be a material drag on Coinbase's earnings as the company generates most of its revenue from trading fees, Miller added.

Adjusted loss was $4.76 a share in the quarter, compared with the $2.65 expected by analysts, according to Refinitiv data. Revenue fell 63%, missing market expectations.

Even though operating expenses surged 37%, the company lowered its annual expenses forecast for technology, development and administration to between $4 billion and $4.25 billion, from $4.25 billion to $5.25 billion.

"The reduction is unlikely to restore profitability at current revenue generation levels," Miller said.

(Reporting by Mehnaz Yasmin in Bengaluru; Editing by Aditya Soni)
(Reuters) - Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd forecast a loss for the current quarter and revenue below estimates as occupancy rates remained stubbornly below pre-pandemic levels, sending its shares down 12% on Tuesday.

Its second-quarter occupancy of 65% compared with more than 107% in 2019, a level the company does not expect to reach till the second quarter next year.

In contrast, rival Royal Caribbean Group forecast triple-digit occupancy by the end of this year and Carnival Cruise Line expects to approach 110% during its current quarter.

The industry looks to cruise towards full occupancy after the pandemic brought it to an 18-month standstill, but self-imposed constraints as well as onboard COVID-19 cases, labor shortages and volatile demand stand in the way.

"2022 has been a very lumpy year. It will continue to be a bit lumpy for the second half given where our load factors (occupancy percentage) are expected to be," Chief Financial Officer Mark Kempa said on an earnings call.

For the third quarter, Norwegian Cruise projected occupancy in the low 80% range, revenue of $1.5 billion to $1.6 billion and a net loss. Analysts were projecting earnings of 30 cents per share on revenue of $1.88 billion, according to Refinitiv IBES.

The cruise operator also blamed higher labor and fuel costs for a fourfold increase in total cruise operating expenses in the reported quarter.

Its adjusted loss was much wider than estimates, but the company forecast slightly positive adjusted core earnings for the second half of 2022 on strong onboard spending by its affluent guests and easing food and fuel costs.

The owner of the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands said its cumulative booked position for 2023 was in line with a record 2019 as it has increased capacity by 20%.

(Reporting by Praveen Paramasivam in Bengaluru; Editing by Devika Syamnath)
FILE PHOTO: The all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning pickup truck is unveiled at the company's world headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, U.S., May 19, 2021. REUTERS/Rebecca Cook

(Reuters) - Ford Motor Co said on Tuesday it would raise the prices of its electric F-150 Lightning pickup as the U.S. carmaker deals with surging raw material costs.

The automaker said prices for its 2023 F-150 lightning will be increased in the range of $6,000 and $8,500 depending on the variant, with the cheapest Pro model now priced at about $47,000.

Customers who have ordered the truck and awaiting delivery will not be impacted by the price hike, Ford added.

Dearborn, Michigan-based Ford said last month it was expecting commodity costs to rise by $4 billion this year and that it would offset them by raising prices.

Prices of raw materials such as lithium used in batteries have jumped of late as car companies, including the likes of Elon Musk's Tesla Inc and EV pickup maker Rivian Automotive Inc, rush to secure supplies to avoid disruptions to production.

Earlier in June, General Motors Co raised prices of its Hummer EV pickup truck to mitigate higher commodity and shipping costs.

(Reporting by Shivansh Tiwary in Bengaluru; Editing by Anil D'Silva)
FILE PHOTO: A sign of ZTE is seen at the 2020 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing, China September 4, 2020. REUTERS/Tingshu Wang

By Karen Freifeld

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Commerce Department on Tuesday accused Far East Cable, China's largest wire and cable manufacturer, of violating U.S. export controls related to shipments of telecommunications equipment to Iran.

Far East Cable entered into an agreement in 2013 to buy equipment from Chinese telecommunications equipment maker ZTE Corp. and then contracted with Iranian companies to supply telecommunications equipment and parts, the Commerce Department said in a charging letter. It accused Far East Cable of 18 violations of U.S. export controls between September 2014 to January 2016.

Far East Cable contracted with Telecommunications Company of Iran (TCI) and Khadamate Ertebati Rightel, another Iranian company, in 2014, the charging letter said. Both were customers of ZTE, which suspended shipments of U.S.-origin items to Iran in 2012, after Reuters reported that the company had contracted to ship goods from American companies to TCI, despite U.S. sanctions on Iran. But the following year, despite a Commerce Department probe, ZTE made plans to resume shipments to Iran via the third party, the letter said.

"As alleged, Far East Cable acted as a cutout for ZTE, facilitating ZTE shipments to Iran at the very time ZTE knew it was under investigation for the exact same conduct," John Sonderman, a Commerce Department official, said in a statement.

Far East Cable and ZTE did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Far East Cable has 30 days to respond to the charging letter, which is dated July 29.

In 2017, ZTE paid an $892 million penalty and pleaded guilty to shipping U.S. goods to Iran in violation of U.S. laws that restrict the sale of American-made technology. It also admitted to obstructing justice after conducting an elaborate scheme to mask its illicit Iranian business.

ZTE was allowed to continue to buy U.S. goods and technology until 2018, when it was caught lying about disciplining employees tied to the original wrongdoing.

In April 2018, a ban was slapped on the smartphone and network gear maker, barring sales to ZTE from American companies, which provided some 25-30% of the components used in its equipment. But after ZTE agreed to pay $1 billion, change its leadership, and other terms, the Trump administration lifted the ban after three months.

ZTE is still under the eye of a monitor appointed by the Commerce Department, but its court-ordered probation stemming from the 2017 guilty plea ended in March.

(Reporting by Karen Freifeld and Doina ChiacuEditing by Kirsten Donovan and Mark Potter)
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Arctic Wolf, a leader in security operations, has been named to the Forbes 2022 Cloud 100, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures.

Arctic Wolf has focused on an operational approach to cybersecurity since its founding, recognizing that cybersecurity is not solely a tools problem or a staffing problemit is an operational problem. Despite rapidly rising budgets and buying an ever-increasing arsenal of security products, organizations continue to suffer cyber attacks. To help address this problem and realize its ambitious mission to end cyber risk, the company brought to market the Arctic Wolf Security Operations Cloud, to help shape the next generation of cloud-based security technologies and approaches.

With its open XDR architecture, the Arctic Wolf Security Operations Cloud ingests, parses, enriches, and analyzes over two trillion security events from the endpoint, network, identity, and cloud data sources of Arctic Wolfs global customer base. By leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence, the Arctic Wolf Security Operations Cloud processes security data at an equivalent to or greater rate than other market-defining cloud platforms while only delivering a few qualified security alerts a week. As a result, Arctic Wolf aims to deliver stronger protection from cyber attacks and serves as a force multiplier for its customers internal security teams by working to diminish alert fatigue and allowing customers to focus on more strategic priorities.

Being named to the Forbes Cloud 100 further underscores Arctic Wolfs reputation as a leading innovator in not only the field of cybersecurity, but the technology sector as a whole. In 2022 alone, Arctic Wolf has been named to the CNBC Disruptor 50, Fast Company Most Innovative Companies, and Fortune and Great Place to Works Best Medium Workplace lists.

Despite record-high budgets and millions of dollars spent on tools, organizations are breached every day, said Nick Schneider, Arctic Wolfs president and chief executive officer. Were incredibly proud to be on this list alongside top cloud companies, highlighting our continued commitment to end cyber risk with our pioneering Security Operations Cloud.

For the seventh straight year, the Cloud 100 reviews submissions from hundreds of cloud startups and private companies each year. The Cloud 100 evaluation process involved ranking companies across four factors: market leadership (35%), estimated valuation (30%), operating metrics (20%), and people & culture (15%). For market leadership, the Cloud 100 enlists the help of a judging panel of public cloud company CEOs who assist in evaluating and ranking their private company peers.

The companies of the Cloud 100 list represent the best and brightest private companies in this fast-growing sector, said Alex Konrad, senior editor at Forbes. Every year, it gets more difficult to make this list  meaning even more elite company for those who do. Congratulations to each of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees.

The public markets may be in turmoil, but the private valuations of the Cloud 100 continue to rise. All of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees, again, have reached the $1 billion valuation milestone, and the average Cloud 100 valuation has skyrocketed to $7.4 billion, said Mary DOnofrio, partner at Bessemer Venture Partners. Despite the market correction in 2022, our confidence in the cloud economy continues to growtoday over 70% of the 2022 Cloud 100 Honorees have reached or exceeded $100 million in annual recurring revenue making them cloud Centaurs. An additional 10% of the list is expected to hit this milestone by the end of the year, furthering our conviction that this years honorees truly represent the best cloud companies globally.

Great companies are born out of all environments, and its exciting to see the continued momentum in the cloud sector, said Alex Kayyal, Managing Partner, Salesforce Ventures. The companies on this list have gone through a rigorous selection process, and join an esteemed alumni list of Cloud 100 companies. As the need for digital transformation continues to drive innovation and efficiencies across industries, we can look to these companies as the absolute best in cloud computing.

The Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 and 20 Rising Stars lists are published online at www.forbes.com/cloud100. Highlights of the list appear in the August/September 2022 issue of Forbes magazine.

Additional Resources:

About Arctic Wolf:

Arctic Wolf is a global leader in security operations, delivering a premier cloud-native security operations platform designed to end cyber risk. Powered by threat telemetry spanning endpoint, network, and cloud sources, the Arctic Wolf Security Operations Cloud ingests and analyzes more than two trillion security events a week across the globe, enabling critical outcomes for security use cases and optimizing customers disparate security solutions. The Arctic Wolf Platform delivers automated threat detection and response at scale, and empowers organizations of virtually any size to establish world-class security operations with the push of a button.

For more information about the Arctic Wolf, visit arcticwolf.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook.

Press Contact: Reagan McAfee[email protected]916-996-4969

 2022 Arctic Wolf Networks, Inc., All Rights Reserved. Arctic Wolf, Arctic Wolf Platform, Arctic Wolf Managed Detection and Response, Arctic Wolf Managed Risk, Arctic Wolf Managed Cloud Monitoring, Arctic Wolf Managed Security Awareness, and Arctic Wolf Concierge Security Team are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Arctic Wolf Networks, Inc. or Arctic Wolf Networks Canada, Inc. and any subsidiaries in Canada, the United States, and/or other countries.

Source: Arctic Wolf Networks, Inc
MOUNT VERNON, N.Y., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Building on its authentic and trusted Powecom KN95 children's mask offering, Bona Fide Masks Corp. (www.bonafidemasks.com), part of the Ball Chain Manufacturing Co., Inc. (Ball Chain) family of companies, announces today that the company is now offering a variety of colors just in time for back to school. With Covid-19 cases on the rise in the U.S., Bona Fide Masks looks to leverage the superior construction and design of the adult Powecom KN95 mask with the expanded production of the KN95-SM for children, which is approximately 15% smaller.

Named "best KN95 for children" from several reputable sources, such as Parents, USA Today, Wirecutter, NBC News and CBS News, Bona Fide Masks is proud to be the exclusive distributor for Powecom. The Powecom KN95-SM was recently highlighted as one of the ten masks that were expert tested and approved by The Strategist, "Best in Class: 10 of the very best KN95 Masks for Covid Protection." Bona Fide Masks takes great pride in these brand recognitions as the company remains steadfast in its perpetual vetting of its partners and ongoing testing of its masks. In April, the company made a significant six-figure investment in an in-house testing machine as part of its commitment to be the most trusted mask provider in the United States.

In early Q1, Bona Fide Masks unveiled the Powecom KN95 masks in color for the ear loop mask style. Based on their popularity, Bona Fide Masks commissioned production for the Powecom headband style in color for early fall. "We realize that our customers still depend on us for high-quality masks as new variants are expected to occur. We remain committed to our customers to deliver the highest quality masks. We are delighted to also deliver a variety of masks that appeal to all different style preferences. Powecom is one of the largest and most reputable global mask producers in the mask business. We are proud of the exclusive and direct relationship we have built with them. Building on our supply chain integrity and unmatched business model, we have made several investments back into our business to offer our customers the most trusted masks in the marketplace. As we approach the fall season, we want our customers to know we are ramping our production and maintaining significant inventory at our warehouses to prepare for future demand surges. Our team has worked incredibly hard to grow and strengthen our business over the last several months." - Bill Taubner, President, Bona Fide Masks

Jing Yip, Marketing and Export Officer, adds, "We continue working closely with the Bona Fide Masks team to ensure we increase production ahead of the fall and winter seasons. We were excited to innovate our KN95-SM masks to offer new colors for both children and adults. Powecom is proud to have Bona Fide Masks be the exclusive mask distributor for our KN95 products in the United States. We urge our customers to purchase directly from www.bonafidemasks.com. Given their unrivaled business model, which includes the highest level of supply chain integrity, ongoing testing and vetting of partners and their masks, and direct relationships with mask producers such as ourselves, we recognize Bona Fide Masks as the most trusted mask distributor in the marketplace."

ABOUT BALL CHAIN MANUFACTURING CO., INC. AND BONA FIDE MASKS CORP.:

The current owners' great-grandfather and grandfather started Ball Chain Manufacturing Co., Inc. (Ball Chain) in a small garage behind their home in the Bronx, NY. The company has been family-owned and operated since 1938. Ball Chain is now the world's largest manufacturer of ball chains (www.ballchain.com), seen on military dog tags, ceiling fans, handbags and light pulls, among many other goods. The company manufactures more than 3 million feet of product per week at its Mount Vernon, New York, factory (all ball chains are made in the USA). Ball Chain is the exclusive supplier to the U.S. military for the iconic dog tag ID necklace worn by U.S. servicemen and women, and the company takes tremendous pride in everything it does.

Originally a division of Ball Chain, Bona Fide Masks Corp. handles warehousing and distribution with the utmost focus, systematically employing proven, regimented processes and protocols, as supply chain security and transparency are its highest priorities. In this regard, Bona Fide Masks is proud to issue statements of authenticity, providing further confidence to its customers and reinforcing its commitment to supply chain integrity.

Media Contact:

914.664.7500

Bill Taubner, President, [email protected]

Cristina Chianese, VP of Marketing & Strategy, [email protected]

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Source: Bona Fide Masks
WEST LONG BRANCH, N.J., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Book Your Cargo, an industry-leading premium drayage service provider, today released the August 2022 forecast for the BYC Drayage Spot Market Index, foreseeing significant capacity crunches and rate hikes in the wake of recent trucker protests at West Coast ports.

According to Book Your Cargos data, the Drayage Spot Market Index found a 27% rate increase since August 2021.

Since June 2022, the Midwest Region container drayage rates have seen a 7.4% increase and are expected to remain steady throughout August. In contrast, the Pacific Southwest Region is seeing a 4.8% decrease in container drayage rates from Quarter 3.

However, in recent weeks, truckers at West Coast ports, including Los Angeles, Long Beach and Oakland, have been protesting the California law known as AB5  which bars companies from classifying them as independent contractors rather than employees. In addition, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) has not yet finalized contracts for longshore workers, and any challenges in reaching agreement could create work stoppage at the terminals.

We expect chassis and equipment shortages to lead to significant rate increases and limited availability in Q4 for several reasons, including the fact that the AB5 protests are displacing thousands of owner-operators and possible further disruption due to the ILWU negotiations. We are also facing diverted cargo in the Gulf and East Coast ports and a drastic surge in fuel costs leading to rate hikes as shippers are forced to fill their tanks at a much higher price, said Chief Executive Officer of BYC, Nimesh Modi.

The predicted crunch will be further exacerbated by the peak holiday season approaching and vessels beginning to travel to the US, now that the lockdowns have been lifted in China. As a result, the sooner importers, exporters, and shippers can secure their drayage carrier, the more likely they will be able to keep logistics costs in control and get cargo delivered in a timely fashion, Modi added.

BYCs Forecast for August 2022

August 2022 drayage spot rates are 27% higher than this time last year.

The most congested ports are: Los Angeles/Long Beach (64 vessels adrift or at anchor), Savannah (43 vessels adrift or at anchor), and Oakland (26 vessels adrift or at anchor).

Northeast region rates are predicted to rise more than 17% above this time last year with carrier availability two weeks out, low capacity and tight chassis availability.

Southeast region rates are expected to rise more than 17% above this time last year with carrier availability two weeks out, low capacity and tight chassis availability.

Midwest region rates are predicted to rise more than 16% above this time last year with carrier availability one week out, low capacity and tight chassis availability.

Pacific Southwest region rates are predicted to rise more than 18% above this time last year with carrier availability one week out, very low capacity and extremely tight chassis availability.

Pacific Northwest region rates are predicted to rise more than 21% above this time last year with carrier availability two weeks out, very low capacity and extremely tight chassis availability.

The BYC Drayage Spot Market Index tracks data and metrics from BYC customers and partners in real time to produce monthly rates dating back to 2016. These rates accurately predict average load costs and potential delays in the coming months for drayage transportation across various North American regions. For a complete outlook and to see all of BYCs most recent drayage forecasts, visit https://bookyourcargo.com/drayage-index.

About Book Your CargoBook Your Cargo (BYC) is a dedicated trucking partner for drayage operations across the US for customers around the globe. As a one stop shop, BYC delivers a tailor-made supply chain solution with its nationwide vendor network of over 2500 trucking partners and a proprietary, state-of-the-art Transportation Management System. BYCs cloud-based portal optimizes the drayage process with instant rate quotes, operational optimization, service integration, as well as order visibility, and real-time milestone updates transmitted through API integrations. The companys team of drayage experts offers a white-glove service touting a less than 1% track record of service failures. Learn more about BYC, its Digital Drayage Platform, and the BYC Drayage Spot Market Index at https://bookyourcargo.com/.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/10dd96f0-4634-4067-b853-38a5e585fe42

Book Your Cargo August 2022 Drayage Index BYC's drayage forecast by region

Source: Book Your Cargo
Washington, D.C., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

Collage Group, the leading source of cultural intelligence about diverse consumers to over 250 of Americas iconic brands, announced today that Victor Paredes has joined the team as Executive Director of Cultural Strategy. Paredes is a proven expert in inclusive marketing and advertising and will leverage his expertise in combination with Collages proprietary data and insights in support of members objectives to unleash the power of culture to drive brand growth.

Collage Group continues to experience hyper growth. Recently, the company announced it has secured $25 million in growth capital, which will be used to bring aboard experts like Paredes, as well as increase its investment in product, technology, and data science. The objective is to continue to support Corporate Americas mission to become Culturally Fluent and win in todays highly Diverse America.

David Wellisch, Collage Group CEO and Co-Founder, lauds Paredes as a new addition to the company, citing his extensive background and noteworthy success with cultural strategy. Bringing Vic on board as a leader and strategist is a great win for Collage and its members, Wellisch said. He will provide contextualized, strategic direction and advice to our members, putting them in position to effectively translate Collage insights and data into actions. Vic will make sure to accelerate our members journey to achieve Cultural Fluency  the organizational capacity to efficiently and effectively use culture to connect across different consumer segments.

Prior to joining Collage Group, Paredes was the Executive Director of Account Planning at Lopez Negrete Communications, where he helped establish keen cultural intelligence in marketing to a diverse new American mainstream. Throughout his career, he has led multidisciplinary teams of strategy, digital, media, promotions and public relations experts in building effective integrated marketing strategies and platforms. He has had the privilege to foster enduring success for several iconic brands, including Target, Hyundai, Heineken, MasterCard, Nestle, McDonalds, Kleenex, Sprint, and Walgreens.

Im excited and eager to join Collage Group and contribute to advancing the great work already in progress, Paredes said. My mission is to help brands better understand the role of Cultural Fluency and how it will ultimately benefit them, as well as their consumers.

ABOUT COLLAGE GROUP

Collage Group is the leading source of cultural intelligence about diverse consumers to more than 250 of Americas iconic brands across 15 industries. For more than 10 years, Collage Group has developed consumer insights across race and ethnicity, generation, sexual identity, gender and parent-child relationships with a focus on high-growth consumer segments. Members of the Collage Group Cultural Intelligence ProgramsMulticultural, Generations, LGBTQ+ & Gender and Parents & Kidshave access to 10+ years of consumer insights and 350+ studies with new data unveiled weekly. Learn more about why Americas iconic brands turn to Collage Group for diverse consumer insights and best practices.

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Quintin Simmons Collage Group [email protected]

Source: Collage Group
SALISBURY, N.C., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As part of Food Lions efforts to support towns and cities impacted by the recent flooding in Kentucky, the omnichannel retailer is delivering water and raising funds for victims.

The donation of a full truckload of 17 pallets of water, or more than 3,500 gallons, will be delivered Aug. 9 to Gods Pantry Food Bank, a member agency of Feeding America Kentuckys Heartland, in Lexington, KY. This donation supports nine shelters established by Feeding America Kentuckys Heartland food bank to serve the 14 impacted counties in Central and Eastern Kentucky.

Additionally, from Aug. 14  27, Food Lion customers at its more than 1,100 stores across 10 states will have the option to round up at the register to support neighbors impacted by the flooding. All proceeds will benefit American Red Cross relief efforts, and Food Lion will match register donations up to $30,000.

Caring for our customers and communities is an integral part of our Food Lion culture and what our associates do every day, said Scott Libbey, Division Vice President, Food Lion. Part of demonstrating care is lending a hand to support our communities during times of need. We are humbled to bring our resources together to partner with our customers across our 10-state footprint to raise disaster relief funds to aid Kentucky. We hope our customers will join us in lending much-needed support to these communities recovering from severe flooding.

The American Red Cross, Feeding America Kentuckys Heartland and partner agencies have been providing comfort and care for nearly 500 residents in multiple shelters across Eastern Kentucky. Preliminary damage assessments indicate hundreds of homes were either destroyed or suffered major damage by recent flooding.

As hundreds seek safety and shelter amidst the devastation in eastern Kentucky, we are grateful to partners like Food Lion who help support our mission in action, said Allison Taylor, Regional Executive, Greater Carolinas Region, American Red Cross. Disaster-trained volunteers from the Greater Carolinas Region and beyond are seeing firsthand how families and communities are suffering and depending on the Red Cross for help. The work we do to provide these flood survivors comfort and care is made possible by the generosity of Food Lion and its customers.

For more ways in which Food Lion cares for the towns and cities it serves, visit foodlion.com/feeds.

About Food LionFood Lion, based in Salisbury, N.C., since 1957, has more than 1,100 stores in 10 Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states and employs more than 82,000 associates. By leveraging its longstanding heritage of low prices and convenient locations, Food Lion is working to own the easiest full shop grocery experience in the Southeast, anchored by a strong commitment to affordability, freshness and the communities it serves. Through Food Lion Feeds, the company has donated more than 970 million meals to individuals and families since 2014 and has committed to donate 1.5 billion meals by 2025. Food Lion is a company of Ahold Delhaize USA, the U.S. division of Zaandam-based Ahold Delhaize. For more information, visit foodlion.com or job applicants may visit foodlion.com/careers.

About the American Red CrossThe American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit Twitter at @RedCross.

About Gods Pantry Food BankThe mission of Gods Pantry Food Bank is to reduce hunger by working together to feed Kentucky communities. Working through more than 475 food pantries and meal programs the Food Bank serves 50 counties across Central and Eastern Kentucky. Gods Pantry Food Bank distributed more than 40 million pounds of food to many of the nearly 240,000 neighbors facing food insecurity in the region, including more than 15.5 million pounds of fresh produce in fiscal year 2022. For more information, visit us at GodsPantryFoodBank.org.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/583fbe32-e758-41c3-9542-3811b9093890

A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7fb6a019-9737-4fc6-a697-488585058698

KY water delivery An ADUSA Distribution Associate loads the water onto the truck for delivery to Gods Pantry Food Bank in Lexington, KY.

Source: Food Lion
DALLAS, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, geniant, a next-generation experience consulting company, announced the acquisition of Eastlake Studio, a Chicago-based architecture and interior design firm. Together, the forward-thinking teams will collectively transform the nature of experience consulting by integrating architecture and digital solutions to deliver exceptional experiences for employees and customers.

"We're entering a new era in workplace design," says David Dewane, geniant's Chief Experience Officer of Physical Space. "To meet future demands, we must think about the employee experience holistically - space, people, and technology. Eastlake Studio is a best-in-class design firm that instantly brings geniant's capabilities to a new level."

"As we've been examining unique hybrid work models, we are finding that additional skill sets and methods are needed to truly understand the evolution of the modern workplace," says Kevin Kamien, Architect & Principal of Eastlake Studio.

"geniant provides our team with experience research expertise that, when integrated with architecture and design, can shape the future for organizations in this critical moment in history," added Christina Brown, Interior Designer & Principal of Eastlake Studio.

As consultants who have partnered with top companies around the country, geniant believes that the experience and performance of information workers can be radically improved. The modern office has not kept pace with the rapid changes in technology and lifestyles. The pandemic exposed this misalignment and has called the status quo into question.

To effectively adapt the employee experience to this new reality, geniant employs contextual research methods, producing crucial, actionable insights for optimal workplace performance  this has specific implications for workplace design, as well as cultural and change management programs.

"As designers, our curiosity has led us to deliver award-winning solutions for our clients over the past 35 years," says Tom Zurowski, Principal Emeritus of Eastlake Studio. "This next step is a natural evolution. It allows our teams to gain even more insights into the clients we're designing workspaces for," added Jon Salzmann, Principal Emeritus of Eastlake Studio.

Eastlake Studio recently received an Interior Design Firm of the Year award at the 2022 Chicago Commercial Real Estate Awards and frequently has projects awarded by the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) and the American Institute of Architects (AIA). The firm's work has appeared in publications including Metropolis, Interior Design, Architect, and Crain's Chicago Business.

"Experiences happen in physical spaces, between people and through technology, shaping the world we live in," says David Lancashire, Chairman & Co-CEO. "The addition of Eastlake Studio is a key step in our strategy to provide a complete suite of services to help businesses optimize their entire brand experience."

To learn more, visit geniant.com.

About geniant:

geniant is uniquely positioned to deliver seamless experiences across employee and customer journeys - across physical space, interactions with people, and technology. Working with a wide range of organizations - from high-growth startups to Fortune 500 companies - geniant excels at delivering exceptional experiences for your employees and customers. The geniant management team is comprised of seasoned professional services entrepreneurs who have built, scaled, and sold businesses to Dell EMC and Amdocs.

Today, the company is leading a movement to evolve the experience design profession, integrating expertise from architecture, interior design, user experience, service design, team and change management, and software development. geniant helps innovative leaders shape the future of their customer and employee experiences.

For more information, visit geniant.com and watch our video on transforming your workplace into a "Performative Office" at www.geniant.com/flow.

About Eastlake Studio:

Eastlake Studio is an architecture and interior design firm focused on progressive workplace design. The studio is a collective of forward-thinking, problem-solving designers with a mission to improve the built environment for everyone through research and creativity. Visit eastlakestudio.com for past projects and insights.

geniant is not associated with Dell Technologies, EMC Corporation, or any parent or subsidiary of either.

For additional information: Jeremy Johnson, geniant, +1 214-228-2894, [email protected]

Related Images

Image 1: Eastlake Studio Office, Chicago, IL Eastlake Studio Office, Chicago, IL

This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com.

Attachment

Eastlake Studio Office, Chicago, IL Eastlake Studio Office, Chicago, IL

Source: geniant
WILMINGTON, Mass., Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WILMINGTON, Mass. -- Heilind Electronics, a leading global distributor of electronic components, will be an exhibitor at this years Solar Power International (SPI)  the largest event focusing on solar, smart energy, and energy storage in North America. At the show, Heilind will be displaying a variety of components from leading solar product manufacturers 3M, Amphenol, Burndy, Eaton, HARTING, HellermannTyton, Heyco, Mersen, Molex, Panduit, Staubli, TE Connectivity, and WAGO.

Heilind is very much looking forward to being back on the floor at SPI, said Mark Ferris, Supplier Business Manager, Heilind Electronics. As a prominent electronic components distributor for the solar and alternative energy industries, we always look forward to meeting with new and existing customers. This year, we are excited to be introducing several new technologies for the PV solar, EV, and other growing markets.

Heilind Electronics works with companies of all sizes, from startups to large multinational OEMs. The company will have representatives at booth #1480 for the duration of the exhibition, which will be held from September 20 through September 22 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.

About Heilind Electronics

Heilind Electronics, Inc. (www.heilind.com) is one of the world's leading distributors of connectors, relays, sensors, switches, thermal management and circuit protection products, terminal blocks, wire and cable, wiring accessories and insulation and identification products. Founded in 1974, Heilind has locations throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, Singapore, Hong Kong and China.

Attachment

David Warren Heilind Electronics 972-489-4752 [email protected]

Source: Heilind Electronics
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- International Land Alliance, Inc. (OTCQB: ILAL), (ILA or the Company), an international land investment and development firm, announced that it has listed its 20-acre/8,000 square foot event venue at its Emerald Grove development in Southern California.

The Company acquired the 80-acre Emerald Grove development in 2019 for $1.1M. In 2021, the Company recognized the sale of a vacant 20-acre parcel for $630,000 and is in the process of subdividing its remaining 40 acres into 8 residential lots. Median prices for 5-acre lots in the surrounding area are currently $250,000.

Jason Sunstein, CFO of ILA, commented: With real estate prices hitting record levels in Southern California, a decision was made to take advantage of the current climate and list this parcel. Creating a profitable exit opportunity and additional income provides us with an alternative and non-dilutive funding source to continue to drive its core business as we continue to ramp up the sales and marketing at all of our Baja California developments.

The listing includes: 8,000 square feet, 20 acres, 4 beds, 4 baths, and 360-degree unobstructed views of the Temecula Wine County. To speak to a sales representative and make an appointment to tour the property, contact Lisa Landau at (619) 851-2681 or visit our website: https://www.emeraldgroveestates.com/.

About International Land Alliance, Inc.:International Land Alliance, Inc. (OTCQB: ILAL) is an international land investment and development firm based in San Diego, California. As its core mission, the Company has embraced technology for sustainable and socially responsible solutions, in addition to using proptech and construction tech advanced applications to meet these goals. The Company is focused on acquiring attractive raw land primarily in Northern Baja California, often within driving distance from Southern California. The Company serves its shareholders by devoting considerable time and resources to seeking out the finest sites available and obtaining the necessary development permits to build a compelling portfolio of properties, which provide a diversity of investment and living options. Please visit: www.ila.company.

CONTACT:International Land Alliance, Inc. Jason Sunstein Email: [email protected] Phone: (877) 661-4811

Safe Harbor Statement

The press release may include certain statements that are not descriptions of historical facts but are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements may include the description of our plans and objectives for future operations, assumptions underlying such plans and objectives, and other forward-looking terminology such as "may," "expects," "believes," "anticipates," "intends," "projects," or similar terms, variations of such terms or the negative of such terms. There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements made herein. Such information is based upon various assumptions made by, and expectations of, our management that were reasonable when made but may prove to be incorrect. All of such assumptions are inherently subject to significant economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies beyond our control and upon assumptions with respect to the future business decisions, which are subject to change. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that actual results will meet expectation and actual results may vary (perhaps materially) from certain of the results anticipated herein.

Source: International Land Alliance Inc.
TORONTO, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lifeist Wellness Inc. (Lifeist or the Company) (TSXV: LFST) (FRANKFURT: M5B) (OTCMKTS: NXTTF), today announced that its wholly owned subsidiary, CannMart Inc. (CannMart), has started an agreement with SQDC, the exclusive retail distributor in the province of Quebec. SQDC will offer six Cannabis edible products offered by CannMart and will be one of the principal distributors of edible cannabis products in the province of Quebec.

The purchase order from the SQDC is for six Rilaxe branded edibles products spanning full-spectrum CBD to 2:1 (CBD:THC) formulations including infused baked beets, dried cauliflower, and dried figs. All of the products are expected to be on the shelves and available for purchase at SQDC retail stores across the province over the coming weeks. These products are produced by CannMart according to an exclusive nationwide licensing agreement that was recently extended until September 2024.

Were honored that CannMart is one of the first companies to bring solid edibles to Quebec, and we do so with the highest sense of responsibility, said Daniel Stern, CEO of CannMart. In addition to having one of the first-mover advantages on edibles in Quebec, this order further demonstrates CannMarts ability to act as a route for brands seeking to bring their cannabis SKUs into the province, something we are uniquely able to do as one of the countrys first sales only non-production licences that is focused on distribution.

Added Meni Morim, Lifeists Chief Executive Officer, CannMart continues to demonstrate that it is the pre-eminent, value-adding distribution platform in the Canadian cannabis market. We look forward to its continued contribution to Lifeists overall growth and profitability in 2022 and beyond.CannMart played an important role in producing high-quality edibles that meet the rigorous standards of government regulators, enabling us to get our products to market quickly, reliably and at scale, added Kim Waterhouse, Rilaxes Chief Executive Officer. Partnering with CannMart provides us with advanced capabilities to accelerate production, getting our innovative edibles into the hands of consumers.

About Lifeist Wellness Inc.

Sitting at the forefront of the post-pandemic wellness revolution, Lifeist leverages advancements in science and technology to build breakthrough companies that transform human wellness. Portfolio business units include: CannMart, which operates a B2B wholesale distribution business facilitating recreational cannabis sales to Canadian provincial government control boards; CannMart Labs, a BHO extraction facility for the production of high margin cannabis 2.0 products; the CannMart.com marketplace, which provides U.S. customers with access to hemp-derived CBD and smoking accessories; Australian Vapes, Australias largest online retailer of vaporizers and accessories; and Mikra, a biosciences and consumer wellness company seeking to develop innovative therapies for cellular health.

Information on Lifeist and its businesses can be accessed through the links below:

www.lifeist.comhttps://cannmart.comwww.australianvaporizers.com.auwww.wearemikra.com

Contacts

Meni Morim, Lifeist Wellness Inc., CEOMatt Chesler, CFA, FNK IR, Investor RelationsPh: 647-362-0390Email: [email protected]

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release or has in any way approved or disapproved of the contents of this press release.

Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not historical in nature contain forward-looking information. Forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as may, expect, likely, should, would, plan, anticipate, intend, potential, proposed, estimate, believe or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions may or will happen.

The forward-looking information contained herein, including, without limitation, statements related to the expected timeline as to when Rilaxe branded edibles products will be available for purchase in cannabis retail stores in Quebec and the expected continued contribution of the CannMart business to Lifeists overall growth and profitability are made as of the date of this news release and is based on assumptions management believed to be reasonable at the time such statements were made, including, without limitation, the anticipated continued growing demand for recreational cannabis and in particular cannabis 2.0 products in Canada, CannMarts ability to produce and deliver Cannabis 2.0 products in a timely manner and CannMarts ability to continue to develop its business as anticipated and increase sales through the SQDC among others, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. While we consider these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to management, there is no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. A variety of factors, including known and unknown risks, many of which are beyond our control, could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking information in this press release. Such factors include, without limitation: consumer retail sales of Rilaxe branded edible products through the SQDC being lower than expected, CannMarts failure to deliver its products to the SQDC in accordance with the anticipated timeline, if at all, and the failure to achieve the anticipated economic benefits from the SQDC initial purchase order. Additional risk factors can also be found in the Companys current MD&A and annual information form, both of which have been filed under the Companys SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Source: Lifeist Wellness Inc.

Source: Lifeist Wellness Inc.
ATLANTA, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Gray Television, Inc. (Gray, we, us or our) (NYSE: GTN) announced today that Michelle Robinson Harper will join Gray as the General Manager of WBTV (CBS) in Charlotte, North Carolina, effective September 6th. In addition, Gray announced that it promoted Shelly Hill Crawford to the new position of WBTV Station Manager effective July 20th, 2022.



Michelle Robinson Harper is a broadcast media leader with more than 37 years of experience in the Southeast. She is a native North Carolinian and is excited to be returning to the Tar Heel State and the Queen City. For the past three years, Michelle has served as General Manager of Cox Media Groups WHBQ-TV FOX13 in Memphis, Tennessee. Prior to that, Michelle was Corporate Vice President of Sales for Cox Media Group in Atlanta. Previously, she was the general sales manager at Coxs Charlotte television stations WSOC-TV and WAXN-TV. She has also served in management and sales with the ABC Owned Television Stations, Capitol Broadcasting, Sinclair Broadcasting, Pappas Telecasting and the Seltel National Rep Firm.

Michelle received a BA in Radio, TV and Motion Pictures from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1985. She is a graduate of the NAB Leadership Foundations Broadcast Leadership Training program. Michelle has been active in a number of advertising, media and service organizations, including the Tennessee Association of Broadcasters, the National Association of Black Journalists, Coxs Executive DE&I Council, and the Charlotte Chapter of the American Women in Radio and Television, the South Charlotte Chapter of Jack and Jill, and the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis.

In late July, Gray selected Shelly Hill Crawford to fill the newly created position of Station Manager of WBTV. Shelly has worked at WBTV for the last 22 years in various roles including new business development manager, research director, and programming and marketing director.

She began her broadcast career when she joined WUPW-TV while attending the University of Toledo. Her career has included roles of research director and/or account executive at WTOL-TV in Toledo, Ohio, WCNC-TV in Charlotte, and WOIO/WUAB in Cleveland, Ohio. She has served in leadership roles for the WBTV Community Advisory Board, Diversity Board and Volunteer Committee. A Michigan native, Shelly moved to Charlotte in 1996 and has been actively involved with local non-profit organizations ever since. She has served on the boards of Autism Speaks, Susan G. Komen Charlotte, Catholic Charities, Johnson C. Smith University Foster Care Youth Program, and the JCSU Community Arts Advisory Board.

About Gray :

Gray Television, Inc. is a multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We are the nations largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets in the United States. Our television stations serve 113 television markets that collectively reach approximately 36 percent of US television households. This portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest rated television station. We also own video program companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group (formerly Tupelo Honey), PowerNation Studios, as well as the studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios.

Gray Contact:

Kevin P. Latek, Executive Vice President, Chief Legal and Development Officer, 404-266-8333

# # #
Minneapolis, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright today announced that corporate lawyer Eric Rauch, who focuses on private equity transactions, has joined the firm as a partner who will work out of its Minneapolis and New York offices.

Eric advises private and public companies on mergers and acquisitions and joint ventures in a wide range of industries, with a significant emphasis on healthcare, software and technology. He is a trusted advisor to clients ranging from private equity sponsors and strategic acquirers to co-investors, sellers of closely held businesses, venture capital funds and investment banks.

Jeff Cody, Norton Rose Fulbrights US Managing Partner, said:

Eric is a fantastic lawyer with significant M&A and private equity experience, which will be incredibly valuable as we further expand our corporate practice. Adding to our private equity capabilities is a focus for our firm as we see continued client demand in this space.

Scarlet McNellie, Norton Rose Fulbrights US Head of Corporate, M&A and Securities, said:

Erics practice complements our corporate strengths, particularly in the areas of healthcare, private equity and fintech. His skillset will be an asset to us as we strategically enhance our corporate and private equity client offering.

With a practice focused on middle market transactions, Eric said:

I am excited to join Norton Rose Fulbrights highly regarded corporate practice. The strength of the firms global platform is unmatched, and I look forward to helping its impressive client roster through sophisticated transactions.

Licensed in New York, Minnesota and Colorado, Eric earned his law degree from Columbia Law School. He received his masters degree in computer science and his bachelors degree in economics with honors from the University of Chicago.

For further information, please contact:

Dan McKenna, US Director and Global Head of PR and Communications

Tel: +1 713 651 3576

[email protected]

Notes for editors:

Norton Rose Fulbright

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright provides the worlds preeminent corporations and financial institutions with a full business law service. With more than 4,000 lawyers and other legal staff based in Europe, the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, Africa and the Middle East, Norton Rose Fulbright has offices in more than 50 cities worldwide, including London, Houston, New York, Toronto, Mexico City, Hong Kong, Sydney and Johannesburg.

Norton Rose Fulbright is recognized for its industry focus across all of the key sectors: financial institutions; energy, infrastructure and resources; transport; technology; life sciences and healthcare; and consumer markets. Through its global risk advisory group, the firm leverages its industry experience with its knowledge of legal, regulatory, compliance and governance issues to provide clients with practical solutions to the legal and regulatory risks facing their businesses.

Operating in accordance with its global business principles of quality, unity and integrity, Norton Rose Fulbright aims to provide the highest possible standard of legal service in each of its offices and to maintain that level of quality at every point of contact.

Norton Rose Fulbright Verein, a Swiss verein, helps coordinate the activities of Norton Rose Fulbright members but does not itself provide legal services to clients. For more information, see nortonrosefulbright.com/legal-notices.

Law around the worldnortonrosefulbright.com

Attachment

Dan McKenna Norton Rose Fulbright 7136513576 [email protected]

Source: Norton Rose Fulbright
TORONTO and NEW YORK, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OMERS Private Equity, the private equity arm of OMERS, the pension plan for municipal employees in Ontario, today announced that it has acquired a minority stake in NovaSource Power Services (NovaSource or the Company).

NovaSource is a global leader in solar operations and maintenance (O&M) services to utility, commercial, industrial, and residential customers, with over 20GW of solar assets under management. NovaSource operates a global footprint with a presence in North America, South America, EMEA, Asia, and Australia. It is the largest independent Solar O&M provider in the United States and globally.

The transaction is in partnership with NovaSources leadership team and Clairvest Group Inc. (TSX: CVG), which will continue as the majority equity holder of NovaSource. The proceeds from the OMERS investment will be used to finance NovaSources continued growth. NovaSource has recently completed the acquisition of Heliolytics to expand its capabilities, and will continue to expand internationally in the months to come.

Angus Cole, Managing Director of Clairvest, said We are excited to welcome OMERS Private Equity as our partner and help accelerate NovaSources growth trajectory over the next few years. OMERS brings expertise and relationships in the industry which will complement nicely with Clairvests deep knowledge in the renewable energy sector. Together, we will help management build an asset of strategic significance in the solar O&M space.

Troy Lauterbach, CEO of NovaSource said: We welcome OMERS to the NovaSource community and are excited to see a company of such strategic significance capitalizing on the opportunity to invest for financial growth and social impact. Working together, we will build the global leader in solar and storage services and create meaningful social impact tomorrow through our actions today.

Scott Hauser, Director, OMERS Private Equity, said: As long term investors with deep expertise in services-based businesses, we are thrilled to partner with Troy Lauterbach and the management team at NovaSource, as well as with Clairvest, to help accelerate the Companys growth and to support the global energy transition by maintaining the lifecycle and efficiency of critical clean energy assets like solar panels.

The transaction builds on OMERS Private Equitys rich history of collaborating with and supporting industry-leading, innovative companies and their management teams. OMERS has a large and growing amount of capital allocated to sustainable investments including solar, wind, and EV battery assets.

Goodmans LLP acted as legal counsel to NovaSource and Clairvest. Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP acted as legal counsel to OMERS Private Equity.

About OMERS Private Equity:OMERS Private Equity manages investments globally on behalf of OMERS, one of Canadas largest defined benefit pension plans, with C$121 billion in net assets as of December 31, 2021, including approximately C$19.6 billion in net private equity investment asset exposure. With teams in New York, London, Toronto and Singapore, OMERS Private Equity invests across Industrials, Healthcare, Business Services and Technology, deploying an evergreen capital base to partner with strong management teams and transform good companies into industry leaders around the globe. www.omersprivateequity.com

About ClairvestClairvests mission is to partner with entrepreneurs to help them build strategically significant businesses. Founded in 1987 by a group of successful Canadian entrepreneurs, Clairvest is a top performing private equity management firm with over CAD $3.2 billion of capital under management. Clairvest invests its own capital and that of third parties through the Clairvest Equity Partners limited partnerships in owner-led businesses. Under the current management team, Clairvest has initiated investments in 58 different platform companies and generated top quartile performance over an extended period.

About NovaSource Power Services:NovaSource Power Services, a portfolio company of Clairvest Group Inc. (Clairvest, TSX: CVG), headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, is the worlds largest independent solar operations & maintenance (O&M) provider serving residential, commercial, industrial, and utility-scale power plants. As an O&M services provider for renewable energy assets, NovaSource seeks to maintain a world-class culture of safety and integrity, while developing lasting partnerships with our customers and team members. NovaSource is poised to offer even greater value in the design, maintenance, and management of our customers projects.

Contact:

Olga Petrycki, OMERS[email protected]647.407.1637

Stephanie LoManager, Investor Relations and MarketingClairvest Group Inc.Tel: (416) 925-9270[email protected]

Source: Clairvest Group Inc.
MONTREAL, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osisko Development Corp. ("Osisko Development" or the "Company") is pleased to report its financial and operating results for the three months ended June 30, 2022. Unless stated otherwise, all dollar references are to Canadian dollars.

Second Quarter 2022 Highlights:

The acquisition of Tintic Consolidated Metals was completed on May 27, 2022, creating a strong foothold in the prospective East Tintic Mining District in Central Utah.

At the producing Trixie test mine (" Trixie "), the Company is currently expanding underground development and utilizing one underground diamond drill and one surface reverse circulation rig. The construction of an underground ramp is underway at Trixie, which is expected to support an increase in productivity and operational mining rates and, is anticipated to be completed in Q2 2023. See "Cautionary Statement".

"), the Company is currently expanding underground development and utilizing one underground diamond drill and one surface reverse circulation rig. The construction of an underground ramp is underway at Trixie, which is expected to support an increase in productivity and operational mining rates and, is anticipated to be completed in Q2 2023. See "Cautionary Statement". The Company announced the results of the Preliminary Economic Assessment (" PEA ") for its Cariboo Gold Project and filed a technical report in relation thereto in accordance with National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (" NI 43-101 "). The PEA illustrates the potential for a low cost, large scale, underground gold mine, with average annual gold production of approximately 236,000 ounces over an initial 12 year mine life. See "Technical Reports".

") for its Cariboo Gold Project and filed a technical report in relation thereto in accordance with National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (" "). The PEA illustrates the potential for a low cost, large scale, underground gold mine, with average annual gold production of approximately 236,000 ounces over an initial 12 year mine life. See "Technical Reports". The Company announced an initial mineral resource estimate for the San Antonio Project with indicated mineral resources of 14.9 Mt grading 1.2 g/t gold for 576,000 oz Au and inferred mineral resources (exclusive of indicated mineral resources) of 16.6 Mt grading 1.02 g/t gold for 544,000 oz Au. The resources are limited to a 2.8 kilometre long segment of the prospective 10 kilometre long trend.

The Company closed on its two previously announced private placement financings for aggregate proceeds of approximately $212 million. Total gross proceeds from the financings in 2022 were approximately $255.5 million,

The Company's common shares commenced trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "ODV".

The Company entered into a binding term sheet with Osisko Bermuda Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd, for a stream on the metals produced from Tintic for total cash consideration of US$20 million.

The Company's common shares were consolidated on a 3 for 1 basis effective May 4, 2022.

For the three months ended June 30, 2022, the Company earned $9 million in revenues from its Bonanza Ledge II and Trixie test mine operations. The quarterly revenues for the Trixie test mine are reflected from the date of the acquisition of Tintic on May 27, 2022. See "Cautionary Statement".

The cash position of the Company as at June 30, 2022 was approximately $136.3 million.

Sean Roosen, Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Osisko Development said, The Tintic acquisition added another cornerstone asset to the portfolio and enhances our operating platform in a world-class mining jurisdiction. We are excited about the quality of exploration targets at Trixie, and the areas beyond Trixie within the large wholly owned district. At Cariboo, we are pleased with the progress to date. The ongoing work at the project has advanced our permitting process and bringing us closer to further major milestones.

Consolidated Financial Statements

Osisko Development's unaudited interim consolidated financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the three months ended June 30, 2022 are available on the Company's website at www.osiskodev.com, and on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Osisko Development's issuer profile.

Qualified Persons

The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Maggie Layman, P.Geo. Vice President Exploration of Osisko Development Corp., a qualified person within the meaning of NI 43-101.

Technical Reports

Information relating to the Tintic Project is supported by the technical report titled "Technical Report on the Tintic Project, East Tintic Mining District, Utah County, Utah, USA", dated June 10, 2022 (with an effective date of June 7, 2022) prepared for the Company by Dr. Thomas A. Henricksen, QP, C.P.G. (the "Tintic Technical Report"). Reference should be made to the full text of the Tintic Technical Report, which was prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and is available electronically on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Osisko Development's issuer profile.

Information relating to the Cariboo Gold Project is supported by the technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report, Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Cariboo Gold Project, District of Wells, British Columbia, Canada", dated June 22, 2022 (with an effective date of May 24, 2022) prepared for the Company by representatives of BBA Engineering Ltd., InnovExplo Inc., SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc., WSP Canada Inc. (WSP Golder), WSP USA Inc. (WSP Golder), Klohn Crippen Berger and Falkirk Environmental Consultants Ltd. (the "Cariboo Technical Report"). Reference should be made to the full text of the Cariboo Technical Report, which was prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and is available electronically on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Osisko Development's issuer profile.

Information relating to the San Antonio Project is supported by the technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report for the 2022 Mineral Resource Estimate on the San Antonio Project, Sonora, Mexico", dated July 12, 2022 (with an effective Date of June 24, 2022) prepared for the Company by Micon International Limited (the "San Antonio Technical Report"). Reference should be made to the full text of the San Antonio Technical Report, which was prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and is available electronically on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Osisko Development's issuer profile.

Cautionary Statement

The Company cautions that the decision to commence production at Trixie in the form of small scale underground mining and batch vat leaching without the benefit of a feasibility study, or reported mineral resources or mineral reserves, demonstrating economic and technical viability, and, as a result there may be increased uncertainty of achieving any particular level of recovery of material or the cost of such recovery. The Company cautions that historically, such projects have a much higher risk of economic and technical failure. There is no guarantee that production will continue as anticipated or at all or that anticipated production costs will be achieved. The failure to continue production may have a material adverse impact on the Company's ability to generate revenue and cash flow to fund operations. Failure to achieve the anticipated production costs may have a material adverse impact on the Company's cash flow and potential profitability. In continuing current operations at Trixie, the Company will not be basing its decision to continue such operations on a feasibility study, or reported mineral resources or mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability. The Company cautions that mining at Trixie could be suspended at any time.

The Company is subject to the reporting requirements of the applicable Canadian securities laws, and as a result reports information regarding mineral properties, mineralization and estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources, including the information in the Tintic Technical Report and this news release, in accordance with Canadian reporting requirements, which are governed by NI 43-101. As such, such information concerning mineral properties, mineralization and estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources, including the information in the Tintic Technical Report and this news release, is not comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements of the SEC.

About Osisko Development Corp.

Osisko Development Corp. is uniquely positioned as a premier gold development company in North America to advance the Cariboo Gold Project and other Canadian, U.S.A. and Mexican properties, with the objective of becoming the next mid-tier gold producer. The Cariboo Gold Project, located in central British Columbia, Canada, is Osisko Development's flagship asset. The considerable exploration potential at depth and along strike distinguishes the Cariboo Gold Project relative to other development assets. Osisko Development's project pipeline is complemented by its interest in the San Antonio gold project, located in Sonora, Mexico and the Trixie gold test mine, located in Utah, U.S.A.

For further information about Osisko Development (NYSE: ODV; TSX-V: ODV), please visit www.osiskodevelopment.com or follow us on Twitter @OsiskoDev

For further information, please contact Osisko Development Corp.: Jean Francois LemondeVP Investor Relations [email protected] Tel: 514-299-4926

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. These forwardlooking statements, by their nature, require Osisko Development to make certain assumptions and necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forwardlooking statements. Forwardlooking statements are not guarantees of performance. Words such as "may", "will", "would", "could", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "continue", or the negative or comparable terminology, as well as terms usually used in the future and the conditional, are intended to identify forwardlooking statements. Information contained in forwardlooking statements is based upon certain material assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including management's perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, results of further exploration work to define and expand mineral resources, and that the deposit remains open for expansion at depth and down plunge, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances, and any other information herein that is not a historical fact may be "forward looking information". Material assumptions also include, management's perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, results of further exploration work to define or expand any mineral resources, the ability to continue production at its Trixie mine, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. Osisko Development considers its assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, but cautions the reader that their assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of Osisko Development, may ultimately prove to be incorrect since they are subject to risks and uncertainties that affect Osisko Development and its business. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, risks relating to capital market conditions, the ability to continue current production, regulatory framework, the ability of exploration activities (including drill results) to accurately predict mineralization; errors in management's geological modelling; the ability of to complete further exploration activities, including drilling; property and stream interests in the Project; the ability of the Company to obtain required approvals; the results of exploration activities; risks relating to exploration, development and mining activities; the global economic climate; metal prices; dilution; environmental risks; and community and non-governmental actions and the responses of relevant governments to the COVID-19 outbreak and the effectiveness of such responses. Readers are urged to consult the disclosure provided (i) under the heading "Risk Factors" in the annual information form of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2021, as amended, and (ii) under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the management's discussion and analysis of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2021, as amended, each of which has been filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Osisko Development's issuer profile and on the SEC's EDGAR website (www.sec.gov), for further information regarding the risks and other factors applicable to the exploration results. Although the Company's believes the expectations conveyed by the forward-looking statements are reasonable based on information available at the date of preparation, no assurances can be given as to future results, levels of activity and achievements. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that these forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Source: Osisko Development Corp.
NEW YORK, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Planck, a leading AI-powered business intelligence platform, unveiled a new risk search engine built specifically for commercial insurance research.

Plancks newly developed risk search engine solves for the shortcomings of traditional research methods, which are ineffective and time consuming. Relevant answers are often buried or simply do not exist in the public sphere. The proprietary solution returns real-time results mined from billions of public sources and unindexed government records. Accessible via an on-demand web application or API integration, the complete and up-to-date digital presence of a business is returned in aggregate.

Underwriters no longer need to spend hours of valuable time reading endless pages of information meant for everyday consumers, said Noa Kalechstain, Vice President of Product Strategy at Planck. Planck is the only platform that provides the focused, relevant web results they need about the businesses they writewith just a single search query.

Results can be sorted by source type, including a map outlining additional geospatial risk data. Further refinement capabilities are built-in to enable underwriters to filter within the offered results and uncover answers to their specific underwriting questions.

Our platform is built to understand risk and go beyond basic, firmographic business data. This streamlined access to vital information empowers insurers with a complete picture of a business to make critical underwriting decisions quickly and accurately so they can pivot to the more complicated challenges, Kalechstain stated.

With the embedded feedback feature, users can easily train the returned insights to inform their individual search engine algorithm models and ensure future results are prioritized based on the insurer's specific needs. The out-of-the-box risk search engine is available today and can be onboarded quickly for both new and existing customers.

Top insurance companies in the US, Europe and Japan are already benefiting from Plancks offerings, such as Attune, Chubb, Republic Indemnity (Great American Insurance Group) and Sompo.

The suite of benefits from Planck continues to grow and additional products are scheduled to launch throughout 2022.

About Planck Planck, an automated AI-powered data platform for commercial insurance, has solved the industry's long-standing need for real-time accuracy and truth. Planck enables insurers to drive service and underwriting excellence by connecting the most up-to-date insights, with just a business name and address. Global carriers, MGAs and insurtechs leverage Plancks holistic solution for customer acquisition and growth strategies, submission prefilling and validation, underwriting new business, renewing existing policies, premium auditing and more. The platform makes managing risk much faster and more predictable, resulting in increased written premium while reducing loss and expense ratios.

Planck was founded by a team of relentless entrepreneurs with extensive backgrounds in insurance and technology and has almost 100 employees globally. The company has raised $50 million to-date led by 3L Capital, Greenfield Partners, Arbor Ventures, Viola Fintech, Team8 and Eight Roads.

For more information, visit www.planckdata.com.

Media Contact Audrey Wayne312.837.1522[email protected]

Source: Planck
MONTREAL, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RELEVIUM TECHNOLOGIES INC. (TSX.V:RLV, OTCQB:RLLVF and Frankfurt: 6BX) (the Company or Relevium), is pleased to announce that its board of directors (the Board) has approved a change of the Companys auditor. The Board has appointed Richter LLP (Richter) as the new auditor. At the request of Relevium, RSM Canada LLP (RSM) has resigned as the Companys auditor effective as of August 5, 2022, and Richter was appointed as auditor of the Company on the same date.

Relevium advises that there were no reservations in the Auditors Reports with respect to the Companys financial statements for the two most recently completed fiscal years. To the knowledge of the Company, there were no reportable events (as defined in National Instrument 51-102  Continuous Disclosure Obligations) between the Company and RSM.

The Notice of Change of Auditor, together with the required letters from RSM and Richter, have been filed on SEDAR.

Aurelio Useche, CEO of Relevium stated: The change in auditors was the result of a major lack of resources which affected not only RSM but also many other accounting firms in Canada. Although a major source of frustration to everyone involved, Relevium is looking forward to completing last years audit and filing the subsequent interim financial statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

About Relevium Technologies

Relevium Technologies Inc., is a publicly traded company, focused on wellness and international procurement, logistics, and delivery of PPE into the North American marketplace. Utilizing trusted vendors and suppliers, and integrating a comprehensive, state-of-the-art supply chain, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology, enables a highly secure and compliant platform for delivery of PPE equipment to governments, hospitals, foundations, and various institutions. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsThis release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, assumptions or expectations of future performance, including the satisfaction of the supply of gloves under the supply agreements and the timing thereof, the impact of the supply agreements disclosed herein on the Company's financial results, the timing and ability of the Company to complete the filing of the outstanding financial statements, management's discussion and analysis and certifications and rescind the CTO and the timing and completion of the filings with the Exchange and the removal of the trading halt, are forward-looking statements and contain forward-looking information. Generally, forward- looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur".

Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this press release, including the ability of the Company to (i) complete the supply of gloves under the supply agreements, (ii) complete the filings necessary to rescind the CTO and lift the trading halt, (iii) successfully execute its business plans, (iv) maintain its expenses, (v) navigate the COVID-19 pandemic in a manner consistent with or better than its ability and response to date. A description of additional risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in the Companys disclosure documents on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com.

These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbour.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

RELEVIUM TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Aurelio UsechePresident and CEOFor more information about this press release: Tel: +1.888.528.8687

RELEVIUM TECHNOLOGIES INCEmail: [email protected] Website: www.releviumtechnologies.com Like us on FacebookFollow us on Twitter Follow us on LinkedIn

Source: Relevium Technologies Inc
Read the full story on cnhindustrial.com

London, August 9, 2022

The Chesapeake Bay watershed  a vast area on the USs Eastern Seaboard  is not only home to a variety of trees, shrubs, and wildlife, but is also the birthplace of New Holland Agriculture, a global agricultural brand of CNH Industrial.

Since it was founded in 1895, New Holland has maintained a campus in this area, and its employees are working with the local community to protect and improve the health of this unique and ecologically important expanse of waterway. Visit https://bit.ly/BreakingNewGround-RootCause to read about the work of the New Holland Campus Sustainability Team, a group of employee volunteers, who are actively preserving this fragile ecosystem.

CNH Industrial (NYSE: CNHI / MI: CNHI) is a world-class equipment and services company. Driven by its purpose of Breaking New Ground, which centers on Innovation, Sustainability and Productivity, the Company provides the strategic direction, R&D capabilities, and investments that enable the success of its global and regional Brands. Globally, Case IH and New Holland Agriculture supply 360 agriculture applications from machines to implements and the digital technologies that enhance them; and CASE and New Holland Construction Equipment deliver a full lineup of construction products that make the industry more productive. The Companys regionally focused Brands include: STEYR, for agricultural tractors; Raven, a leader in digital agriculture, precision technology and the development of autonomous systems; Flexi-Coil, specializing in tillage and seeding systems; Miller, manufacturing application equipment; Kongskilde, providing tillage, seeding and hay & forage implements; and Eurocomach, producing a wide range of mini and midi excavators for the construction sector, including electric solutions. Across a history spanning over two centuries, CNH Industrial has always been a pioneer in its sectors and continues to passionately innovate and drive customer efficiency and success. As a truly global company, CNH Industrials 37,000+ employees form part of a diverse and inclusive workplace, focused on empowering customers to grow, and build, a better world.

For more information and the latest financial and sustainability reports visit: cnhindustrial.com

For news from CNH Industrial and its Brands visit: media.cnhindustrial.com

Media contacts:

Rebecca Fabian Anna Angelini North America United Kingdom Tel. +1 312 515 2249 Tel. +44 (0)7725 826 007

[email protected]

Attachment

Source: CNH Industrial N.V.
HERNDON, VA, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Voltera, which provides the critical infrastructure necessary to support the full electrification of transportation, officially announced its launch today. The company builds, owns, and operates charging facilities that enable electric vehicle (EV) deployment and operation at scale. With equity backing from EQT Infrastructure, critical infrastructure expertise and ongoing partnership with EdgeConneX, and a team with deep experience deploying charging assets, Voltera is uniquely positioned to help solve the EV infrastructure challenge.

Fleet operators, automakers, and consumers alike are adopting electric vehicles at a rapidly accelerating pace. Lagging far behind, though, is the power infrastructure needed to support EVs at scale, says Voltera CEO Matt Horton, who has deep industry experience including as Executive Vice President of Energy & Charging Solutions at Rivian and Chief Commercial Officer at Proterra. We have to bridge that gap if were going to make zero-emission transportation a reality. Thats what Voltera is doing, and its why Im so excited to be part of this team.

Volteras customers are companies that have a pressing need to power EVs at scale. That includes organizations looking to electrify without disrupting operations or investing significant time and upfront capital to install EV charging capacity as well as automakers looking to deploy charging infrastructure to support EV sales. To support those needs, Voltera plans to invest several billion dollars on deployments that are both customer-driven (in a particular location for a particular customer) and thesis-driven (proactive development in the strategic locations customers will need to be). This approach significantly speeds time to market and enables customers to meet their deployment timetables.

Charging infrastructure is one of the most critical requirements for EV deployment at scale. As companies take initial delivery on large EV orders, theyre finding that the charging infrastructure does not exist at the scale needed to support those, or future, deployments, Horton explains. A key part of the challenge is that charging facilities need to be strategically located and require vast amounts of power. In the U.S. and Europe, almost 150 gigawatts power  about equivalent to the annual power consumption of all U.S. households  will be required by EV fleets by 2030. Voltera is uniquely positioned to help solve those challenges.

As a turnkey solution provider, Voltera delivers at every stage of the value chain  site identification and acquisition, power procurement, facility design and construction, charging hardware deployment, operations and maintenance. The company provides EV charging facilities as a service, taking on the CapEx so customers can focus their capital on their businesses.

As one of the largest and most active infrastructure investors globally, EQT takes a long-term view of investments and aims to partner with promising companies that can drive positive change, helping solve some of the biggest challenges society faces today. EQT Infrastructure aims to help support the global energy transition, including by having made several investments in the electrification of the transportation sector, and was looking for opportunities to help develop the EV charging infrastructure necessary to support vehicle electrification at scale, says EQT Partner Jan Vesely. Through our experience in the datacenter and renewables sectors, we understand that the capabilities needed to deliver critical infrastructure for transport electrification at scale are around real estate and renewable power availability. We leveraged our existing know-how in this space to develop the EV charging infrastructure solution that now becomes Voltera. We see a tremendous opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by developing EV infrastructure, which is why we are excited to back Volteras expansive ambitions.

The backing of a leading global private equity firm like EQT with EUR 77 billion under management is further evidence that EV infrastructure is maturing as an asset class, and it signals a significant shift in the EV market. The market is past the pilot phase, Horton says. As a complement to public funding of EV infrastructure projects, this commitment from a global leader in private capital marks a new phase in the transition to full electrification. The time is right to scale, and the market is hungry for new business models and creative market-driven solutions to address the power infrastructure challenges that have to date limited EV deployment at scale.

As a pioneer in the digital infrastructure industry, EdgeConneX has solved many of the same challenges EV fleet operators and automakers face  acquiring, permitting, powering and operating sites in strategic locations, while ensuring customers speed to market, says EdgeConneX CEO Randy Brouckman. Its a highly logical and practical application of our long-developed data center innovations to solve another very real and significant challenge. Voltera will advance the transportation industry like EdgeConneX did digital infrastructure. Its really all a part of our commitment to sustainable innovation.

Adding to Volteras long-term capital backing and critical infrastructure DNA is a rapidly growing team with deep experience and proven ability to deploy charging infrastructure at scale. Team members have experience from companies such as Greenlots (now Shell Recharge Solutions), Rivian, Electrify America, EVgo, Proterra, Arrival, and Ford Mobility, in addition to EdgeConneX.

With a strong portfolio of sites already under development in North America and plans for significant expansion, Voltera is clearly meeting a previously unmet need in the industry  the need for full-service charging facilities in the right place at the right time, delivered as a service, says Chairman Brett Hauser, whose deep industry experience includes seven years as the CEO of Greenlots. Voltera is solving the infrastructure challenges to enable widespread EV deployment and dramatically reduce emissions.

###

About Voltera

Voltera sites, builds, owns, and operates strategically located, fit-for-purpose charging facilities to enable EV deployment and operation at scale. With equity backing from EQT and plans to invest several billion, alongside a team with deep experience deploying charging assets, proven critical infrastructure expertise and key strategic partners, Voltera is uniquely positioned to help solve the EV infrastructure challenge and scale zero-emission transportation. For more information, visit volterapower.com.

About EQT

EQT is a purpose-driven global investment organization with EUR 77 billion in assets under management across 36 active funds. EQT funds have portfolio companies in Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Americas with total sales of approximately EUR 29 billion and more than 280,000 employees. EQT works with portfolio companies to achieve sustainable growth, operational excellence and market leadership.

More info: www.eqtgroup.com

Attachments

Lawren Markle Gladstein, Neandross & Associates (GNA) 424-224-5364 [email protected]

Source: Voltera
Boston, Massachusetts--(Newsfile Corp. - August 9, 2022) - Boston Realty Advisors, the largest Boston-based independent real estate brokerage firm, is exclusively representing the owners of 577 Massachusetts Ave. in Boston for sale of the building.

To view the full announcement, including downloadable images, bios, and more, click here.

Key Takeaways:

The handsome bowfront brick 577 Mass. Ave. is located in the South End, situated in one of Boston's most popular and diverse neighborhoods.

This space can be rezoned and reconditioned to fall in line with classic South End residential apartments or condos.





Click image above to view full announcement.

ABOUT BOSTON REALTY ADVISORS

Founded in 2001, Boston Realty Advisors is a Boston-based, privately held, locally operated real estate firm. BRA is data-driven, with real-time insight on real estate trends ranging from commercial and residential development to debt and equity markets. BRA applies industry experience to inform decisions, manage risk, and maximize profitability for its clients. For more information on BRA, please go to www.bradvisors.com.

Contacts:

Tom Palmer, Tom Palmer Communication

617.755.7250

[email protected]

Source: Boston Realty Advisors

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133266
DORADO, Puerto Rico, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Ad Practitioners, the parent company to world-class digital media brands Money.com, ConsumersAdvocate.org, and Navchain, announced today a rebrand to Money Group. Whether saving for college or buying a home, the Money Group's dedicated team of award-winning personal finance journalists, engineers, and marketing experts deliver up-to-date news, recommendations, and solutions to life's most important decisions. Along with the rebrand, Money Group unveiled their new website, www.moneygroup.pr, to better reflect the company's vision and mission to revolutionize the way consumers and brands connect.

"Changing our name to Money Group marks an exciting evolution in our company's history," says Melissa Powel, Chief Experience Officer at Money Group. "Money.com has a rich history that aligns with our company's mission and vision and building on this brand will accelerate our growth strategy. At Money Group, we believe when we combine well-researched content with information about products and services people need, we can help people live richer in every sense of the word."

The new Money Group company name comes as the team lays out plans to celebrate Money.com's 50-year legacy of guiding people to financial victories this October. The company acquired the iconic, personal finance site, Money, in 2019 and implemented a major business overhaul and redesign, which resulted in better user experience, improved site performance, and significant growth in audience, revenue, and staff. Navchain, Money Group's lead-scoring and ad delivery platform, was a key component in helping to transform the Money brand into a profitable business. Navchain, which was developed by the team over the last 6 years, was also instrumental in establishing ConsumersAdvocate.org as one of the largest brands in Google's paid search ecosystem. ConsumersAdvocate.org, the original brand under the company umbrella, is a trusted source of reviews and recommendations for all of life's most important buying decisions.

Leveraging a half-century of expertise and trustworthy advice in the personal finance sector, data science, and their proprietary technology, Money Group is focused on helping millions of people take control of their future by fueling life-changing decisions. Money Group, which is headquartered in Dorado, Puerto Rico, is hiring for key positions to foster business expansion and growth.

ABOUT MONEY GROUP

Money Group is a digital media company whose mission is to revolutionize the way consumers and brands connect through best-in-class technology, tools, news, and recommendations that help people live richer lives in every sense of the word. The company's portfolio of brands includes Money.com, which was acquired in 2019, and ConsumersAdvocate.org, which was acquired in 2016, and Navchain, an analytics and ad delivery platform developed over the last 6 years. Leveraging a half-century of expertise and trustworthy advice in the personal finance sector, data science, and their proprietary technology, Money Group is focused on helping millions of people take control of their future by fueling life changing decisions in areas spanning health, home, lifestyle, insurance, and beyond.

Money Group is headquartered in Dorado, Puerto Rico. For more information, please visit moneygroup.pr and moneygroup.pr/careers/ for open positions.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ad-practitioners-parent-company-to-money-and-consumers-advocate-rebrands-to-money-group-301602606.html

SOURCE Money Group
NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, IN WHOLE OR IN PART DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH THE RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF ANY OF THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN.

HAMILTON, Bermuda, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Borr Drilling Limited (the "Company") (NYSE and OSE: BORR) announces today that it plans to make a public offering of $250,000,000 of its common shares in the United States. In connection with the offering, the Company intends to grant the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to $25,000,000 of additional common shares.

No securities in the NYSE offering will be offered or listed on Oslo Stock Exchange.

The Company plans to use the proceeds from the offering to consummate a refinancing with its lenders under its Syndicated Facility, New Bridge Facility, Hayfin Facility and shipyard delivery financing arrangements with Keppel and PPL, and for general corporate purposes, which may include, among other things, repayments of the Company's debt obligations, payments to its creditors in return for potential concessions or extensions of current facilities, capital expenditures, including costs in connection with activations and re-activations of rigs being brought into operations, or funding of our working capital.

DNB Markets, Clarksons Securities, Pareto Securities, ABG Sundal Collier ASA, Arctic Securities AS, Fearnley Securities and SpareBank 1 Markets are the book-running managers for the offering. Cleaves Securities AS is a co-manager for the offering.

Closing of the offering will be subject to (i) the Company's authorized share capital being increased by 40,000,000 common shares, pursuant to a special general meeting to be held on August 16, 2022, (ii) the Company's authorized share capital being further increased by 35,000,000 common shares pursuant to a second special general meeting to be held on August 25, 2022, and (iii) the Company having entered into binding term sheets or other binding agreements with all applicable lenders or obtaining written commitments approved by the Company's Board of Directors, under its Syndicated Facility, New Bridge Facility, Hayfin Facility and shipyard delivery financing arrangements with Keppel and PPL, no later than the time of the special general meeting to be held on August 16, 2022.

A first settlement of the offering is expected on August 17, 2022, subject to fulfilment of the conditions described in (i) and (iii) above. A second settlement is expected on August 26, 2022, for the remainder of the shares, provided all the conditions described above are satisfied.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, nor will there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

This stock exchange notice was published by Andreas Lavik Lie, Vice President Treasury & Investor Relations of the Company, on 9 August 2022 at 22:45 CEST.

About Borr Drilling Limited

Borr Drilling Limited is an international drilling contractor incorporated in Bermuda in 2016 and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange on August 30, 2017 and on the New York Stock Exchange on July 31, 2019 under the ticker "BORR". The Company owns and operates jack-up rigs of modern and high specification designs and provides services focused on the shallow water segment to the offshore oil and gas industry worldwide. Please visit the Company's website at: www.borrdrilling.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "anticipate," "plan," "expect," or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include statements with respect to the offering, the conditions to the offering, including the refinancing with certain of the Company's lenders, the intended use of proceeds, and other non-historical statements.

The forward-looking statements included in this press release are subject to significant risks, uncertainties, contingencies and factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements including risks related to the conduct of the offering, the use of proceeds, whether the conditions to closing of the offering will be met, the risk that the Company will not consummate the proposed refinancing, the number of shares to be sold in the offering and other risks described in the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and other filings of the Company with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The forward-looking statements made in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

August 9, 2022

The Board of DirectorsBorr Drilling LimitedHamilton, Bermuda

CONTACT:

Questions should be directed to: Magnus Vaaler, CFO, +47 22 48 30 00

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

https://news.cision.com/borr-drilling-limited/r/borr-drilling---nyse-public-offering,c3612106

SOURCE Borr Drilling Limited

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/borr-drilling---nyse-public-offering-301602967.html

SOURCE Borr Drilling Limited
General Chang Dingqiu, commander of the PLA Air Force, held talks with Air Chief Marshal Napadej Dhupatemiya, commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Air Force, via video link on August 9, 2022. The two sides made in-depth exchange of views on communication and cooperation between the air forces of the two countries.

The traditional friendship between China and Thailand boasts a long history. In recent years, under the guidance of the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, the military relations between the two countries have developed healthily and steadily, and the friendly cooperation between the two air forces has been pragmatic and efficient. The Chinese side is ready to work with the Thai side to continuously expand cooperation fields and jointly safeguard regional security and stability.
CGT Staffing fosters an environment of trust between motivated job seekers and established client partners.

PITTSBURGH, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- More than ever, trust is the imperative value that holds workplace culture together in an increasingly remote working world.

A recent study showed that 58% of employees polled believe lack of trust negatively impacts their career choices. The same study revealed that 24% would leave an organization if they didn't feel trusted.

"Workplace trust goes both ways," said Bill Welge, President and CEO of CGT Staffing. "It's the key to professional symbiosis. Without mutual trust  a company empowering an employee and employee manifesting his or her best effort to materially contribute to a large-scale vision  no individual or organization can realize its highest potential. We take immense pride in facilitating the connections that make that sort of powerful synergy possible, understanding that our reputation is built on our ability to make those powerful connections and earn trust ourselves."

The foundations of trust are established as soon as an organization's hiring process begins. Even at the outset, as the relationship between a candidate and potential employer begins to evolve, an element of trust is necessary to establish foundational communication. In successful matches, the common ground between both parties is the product of a shared vision and motivation, held in place by a bedrock of mutual trust.

Just as trust is a critical element of an organization's personnel search, it is a necessary, often overlooked, element for candidates as well. "We don't take any business for granted," said Welge, "whether it's a Fortune 100 or a lone professional looking for guidance in the midst of a career change. We have a saying at CGT  'Give us a crumb and we'll earn the loaf.' Easy to say, but the necessary elements of transparency, empathy, and compassion often get misplaced in today's hiring market. We think that the best organizations and the happiest job seekers find a way to manifest these together, and we understand that it's a critical component of our job to help them get there together."

About CGT Staffing

Founded in 2009, CGT Staffing is a national full-service staffing firm based in the greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area.

Media Contact:

Harton Semple438 Division Street, Sewickley, PA 15143(800) 813-4595[email protected]

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SOURCE CGT Staffing
All educators at 2,000 schools across the country will score free Chipotle as they return to the classroom

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. , Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced it will recognize all teachers at 2,000 schools in the U.S. with more than $1 million in free Chipotle*.

How It Works

To honor teachers heading into a new school year, Chipotle fans can nominate their favorite K-12 educators to give their schools a chance to receive free Chipotle entrees for all teachers at their school. Through August 12, fans can tag a teacher and leave a comment about their impact in the following posts on Chipotle's Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter channels:

Starting the week of August 15, Chipotle will randomly select 2,000 teachers in the comments to give free Chipotle entrees to all teachers at their school, the equivalent to more than $1 million total in free Chipotle.

Chipotle's giveback aims to rally students and entire communities around their indispensable teachers.

"Teachers Cultivate a Better World by shaping the next generation," said Chris Brandt, Chief Marketing Officer. "As a longtime supporter of education, we are encouraging our fans to join us in recognizing teachers and their impact on America's youth."

Kids In Need Foundation

Chipotle will also leverage its Round-Up for Real Change feature on the Chipotle app and Chipotle.com to support Kids In Need Foundation (WWW.KINF.ORG), a national non-profit organization that partners with teachers and students in underserved schools to provide the resources needed for teachers to teach and learners to learn. Through August 31, Chipotle invites guests to join its mission to Cultivate a Better World by rounding up their bill to the next highest dollar amount on the Chipotle app or Chipotle.com to donate to Kids In Need Foundation Supply A Teacher Program. Each teacher from participating schools will receive supplies to fuel a semester of active learning, including notebooks, folders, pencil packs and pouches, sharpeners, rulers, erasers, highlighters, sticky note pads, and pens. In the U.S., more than 94% of public-school teachers pay for school supplies out of their own pocket, and on average, they spend nearly $500 for their respective classes**.

Chipotle's Round Up for Kids In Need Foundation has raised more than $2 million to date for thousands of under-resourced teachers and students across the country.

Cultivate Education

In addition to supporting teachers and its local communities, Chipotle also provides its workforce with the opportunity to achieve a higher education at no cost through its partnership with Guild Education, the country's leading education and upskilling company. After only 120 days of employment, employees are eligible to pursue debt-free degrees from leading non-profit, accredited universities across 100 majors as part of its Cultivate Education program. Additionally, Chipotle's Tuition Reimbursement Program allows eligible employees to be reimbursed for tuition up to $5,250 per year in qualifying programs. Chipotle also offers English as a second language to all employees and their families, opportunities for upskilling through its learning management system (LMS), Spice Hub, and more.

*Nominate an eligible K-12 teacher in the U.S. (virtual/homeschool not eligible) between approx. 12:01 am PT on 8/9/22  approx. 11:59 pm PT on 8/12/22. For Official Rules including how to participate, teacher definition, and complete details, visit chipotle.com/burritos4teachers. Sponsor: CMG Strategy Co., LLC

**Source: THE WASHINGTON POST

About Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically-cooked, real food with wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Chipotle had over 3,000 restaurants as of June 30, 2022, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany and is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants. Chipotle is ranked on the Fortune 500 and is recognized on the 2022 list for Fortune's Most Admired Companies. With over 100,000 employees passionate about providing a great guest experience, Chipotle is a longtime leader and innovator in the food industry. Chipotle is committed to making its food more accessible to everyone while continuing to be a brand with a demonstrated purpose as it leads the way in digital, technology and sustainable business practices. For more information or to place an order online, visit WWW.CHIPOTLE.COM.

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SOURCE Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.
Key Support Provided by The Suzanne McGraw Foundation

WASHINGTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- To advance the animal rescue field and to respond to the sharp rise in animal-related emergency responses globally, the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) has opened its first-ever Center of Excellence (CoE) on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Building upon decades of experience responding to emergencies ranging from mass strandings to natural disasters to climate change, the IFAW CoE will provide fee-based intensive training to professional and volunteer field rescue personnel in all aspects of animal rescue. A scholarship fund will also be available for eligible participants. Housed within IFAW's International Operations Center, the CoE will combine a unique curriculum of both in-person and virtual learning conducted by professional rescue personnel from IFAW.

Rescue experts from the IFAW CoE will demonstrate best practices honed through their work and that of other professionals, helping ensure expansion of IFAW's global action network to further amplify impact on the lives of animals. In just the past five years, IFAW has trained over 7,000 individuals across 35 countries and will now enhance its efforts with a generous grant provided by The Suzanne McGraw Foundation through a three-year pilot project. It is estimated that this expanded program will help save between two to three times as many animals worldwide.

According to IFAW's Deputy Vice President of Animal Rescue Katie Moore, "The call for IFAW rescue expertise has more than tripled in just five years. Whether from human-induced threats or natural events, the demand is immense and escalating. With over 650,000 animals rescued worldwide over the past two decades alone, IFAW is uniquely positioned to launch this innovative center and deliver best practices in animal rescue to a global audience."

The global rescue field faces a key challenge of scale to meet the growing need to save more animals. As a result, the IFAW CoE itself acts as an information  and action  hub, also providing a starting point for collaborative research initiatives meant to improve the welfare and outcomes for animals. By offering mentoring and a certification program, the CoE will lay the groundwork for additional rescue programs internationally.

For additional information related to the IFAW Center of Excellence, program participants should visit www.ifaw.org.

For images pertaining to IFAW's rescue work and the Center of Excellence, see Hightail link here.

To coordinate interviews with IFAW personnel please reach out to press contact below.

About IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare):

IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) is a global non-profit helping animals and people thrive together. We are experts and everyday people, working across seas, oceans, and in more than 40 countries around the world. We rescue, rehabilitate, and release animals, and we restore and protect their natural habitats. The problems we're up against are urgent and complicated. To solve them, we match fresh thinking with bold action. We partner with local communities, governments, non-governmental organizations, and businesses. Together, we pioneer new and innovative ways to help all species flourish. See how at ifaw.org.

Press Contacts:Rodger Correa Communications Director, AmericasEmail: [email protected]: (202) 834-6637

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SOURCE International Fund for Animal Welfare
PHOENIX, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- CopperPoint Insurance Companies, a western-based super regional commercial insurance company, announced today that Kevin Kinross will be joining CopperPoint on September 12, 2022 as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, reporting to the CEO.

Kinross brings over 20 years of experience, along with deep relationships in the industry, to the role. He most recently served as a Partner at Taft, Stettinius & Hollister, LLP where he led the Insurance Regulatory & Transaction Practice.

"Kevin has been a trusted partner to me throughout the years and has advised us on a variety of corporate matters, including our mutual holding company conversion. He will be a tremendous asset to the CopperPoint Family", said Marc Schmittlein, CopperPoint President and CEO.

Kinross earned his Finance degree at Indiana University Kelly School of Business and his Juris Doctor from Capital University Law School.

He will work alongside Sara Begley, current Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Chief Compliance Officer for the next several months until Sara retires in early 2023. We have been so fortunate to have Sara at the helm for the last 14 years and we are confident that the work over the next several months will ensure a smooth transition for Kinross into this new role.

About CopperPoint Insurance Companies

Founded in 1925, CopperPoint Insurance Companies, www.copperpoint.com, is a leading provider of workers' compensation and commercial property and casualty insurance solutions. With an expanded line of insurance products and a growing 26-state footprint, CopperPoint is in a strong position to meet the evolving needs of its agents, brokers, and customers. It has $5.1 billion in total assets and an enterprise surplus of approximately $1.6 billion.

CopperPoint Mutual Insurance Holding Company is the corporate parent of CopperPoint Insurance Companies, Pacific Compensation Insurance Company and Alaska National Insurance Company. All companies are rated A (Excellent) by AM Best.

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SOURCE CopperPoint Insurance Companies
SOUTH JORDAN, Utah, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Lucid Software, a leading provider of visual collaboration software, has been named to the Forbes Cloud 100, the definitive ranking of the top 100 private cloud companies in the world, published by Forbes in partnership with Bessemer Venture Partners and Salesforce Ventures, for the third consecutive year.

"It's exciting to be part of the Cloud 100 for the third year in a row, and it's validation of the continually-growing need for solutions that truly support today's hybrid workforce," said Dave Grow, CEO of Lucid. "The Lucid Visual Collaboration Suite is changing the way we and our customers work, collaborate, innovate and push businesses forward. Visual collaboration is at the heart of engaging, aligning and connecting distributed teams, and we look forward to continuing to help those teams across the globe see and build the future."

"The companies of the Cloud 100 list represent the best and brightest private companies in this fast-growing sector," said Alex Konrad, senior editor at Forbes. "Every year, it gets more difficult to make this list  meaning even more elite company for those who do. Congratulations to each of the 2022 Cloud 100 honorees."

To see the full Forbes 2022 Cloud 100 and 20 Rising Stars lists, visit www.forbes.com/cloud100. To learn more about the Lucid Visual Collaboration Suite, visit lucid.co.

About Lucid Software

Lucid Software Inc. offers a leading Visual Collaboration Suite that helps teams see and build the future from idea to reality. With its productsLucidchart, Lucidspark and Lucidscaleteams can align around a shared vision, clarify complexity, and collaborate visually, no matter where they're located. Top businesses use Lucid's products all around the world, including customers such as Google, GE and NBC Universal. Lucid's partners include industry leaders such as Google, Atlassian and Microsoft. Since the company's founding, it has received numerous awards for its products, business and workplace culture. For more information, visit lucid.co.

Bessemer Venture Partners

Bessemer Venture Partners helps entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to build and forge long-standing companies. With more than 135 IPOs and 200 portfolio companies in the enterprise, consumer and healthcare spaces, Bessemer supports founders and CEOs from their early days through every stage of growth. Bessemer's global portfolio includes Pinterest, Shopify, Twilio, Yelp, LinkedIn, PagerDuty, DocuSign, Wix, Fiverr and Toast and has $19 billion of regulatory assets under management. Bessemer has teams of investors and partners located in Tel Aviv, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York, London, Boston, Beijing and Bangalore. Born from innovations in steel more than a century ago, Bessemer's storied history has afforded its partners the opportunity to celebrate and scrutinize its best investment decisions (see Memos) and also learn from its mistakes (see Anti-Portfolio).

About Forbes

Forbes champions success by celebrating those who have made it, and those who aspire to make it. Forbes convenes and curates the most influential leaders and entrepreneurs who are driving change, transforming business and making a significant impact on the world. The Forbes brand today reaches more than 150 million people worldwide through its trusted journalism, signature LIVE and Forbes Virtual events, custom marketing programs and 47 licensed local editions in 80 countries. Forbes Media's brand extensions include real estate, education and financial services license agreements.

Salesforce Ventures

Salesforce Ventures helps enterprising founders build companies that reinvent the way the world works. Since 2009, we've invested in and partnered with more than 400 of the world's most tenacious enterprise software companies from seed to IPO, including Airtable, Databricks, DocuSign, Guild Education, Hopin, monday.com, nCino, Snowflake, Snyk, Stripe, Tanium, and Zoom. Salesforce Ventures leverages our decades of expertise in the cloud and our long-term relationships with key decision-makers at thousands of businesses around the world to give our portfolio companies an unfair advantage, help them build credibility, and accelerate growth. Salesforce Ventures has invested in more than 25 countries with offices all over the world including in San Francisco, Irvine, New York, London, Tokyo, and Sydney. Follow @SalesforceVC and learn more at http://www.salesforceventures.com.

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SOURCE Lucid Software
Intended victim experienced no downtime despite attacker's persistence

DENVER, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- In its quarterly report on Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, Lumen Technologies (NYSE: LUMN) revealed the company mitigated one of its largest ever  a 1.06 terabits per second (Tbps) attack that was part of a larger campaign targeting a single victim. Despite the size and complexity of the attempted attack, the target experienced no downtime.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9039151-lumen-quarterly-ddos-report-q2-2022/

Size was not the only notable element of the failed attack; it was also part of a larger campaign in which the threat actor attempted to leverage multiple techniques. These techniques are called out in the report as emerging trends in the second quarter.

Read the full Q2 2022 DDoS report: https://tinyurl.com/Q2DDoSReport

Trend #1: Leveraging the cloud

Attackers leverage cloud-based services in a fraudulent way to significantly boost their attack capability.

To be successful at this type of attack, cybercriminals mask their acquisition and control of cloud-based services through compromised hosts or anonymizing services. The attacker then abuses the cloud providers' resources to launch volumetric attacks against their intended victims.

To learn how to avoid being a victim of compromised cloud services, read the full Q2 DDoS report.

"Using cloud and hosting providers to launch large DDoS attacks creates a unique challenge because it puts both the victim and the provider at risk," said Mark Dehus, director of threat intelligence for Black Lotus Labs, the threat research team at Lumen. "Cloud providers must be vigilant to ensure their services are not being abused. They should also have mitigation methodologies to limit the impact if a threat actor gains unauthorized or fraudulent access to resources."

Trend #2: Hit-and-run

Analysis from Black Lotus Labs revealed the 1.06 Tbps attack was part of a larger campaign that lasted 12 minutes. It began when the threat actor attempted to deploy a series of "hit-and-run" attacks. With this technique, victims are typically targeted with a series of consecutive or concurrent attacks that are relatively small in size and duration. Threat actors deploy these attacks to assess a potential victim's defenses and determine which attack methods  if any  will be successful.

The longest campaign Lumen mitigated in Q2 lasted 21 days, 8 hours.

Learn how to protect against hit-and-run attacks with Lumen DDoS Mitigation services.

Trend #3: VoIP targeting continues

Late last year, several researchers (including Lumen) began reporting on a rise in attacks targeting VoIP providers. In Q2 2022, one attack vector  Session Initiation Protocol (SIP)  stood out in the data. Although the number of SIP attacks that Lumen mitigated was relatively small  just 1.84% of all mitigations  they represented a 315% increase over Q1 2022, and a 475% increase over Q3 2021.

While the number of SIP attacks is low compared to tried-and-true methods, attacking SIP is considered a more surgical approach to disrupting VoIP services compared to DDoS brute-force methods like TCP-SYN flooding and UDP-based amplification. For more information about Lumen's previous research into VoIP attacks, read our Q4 2021 DDoS report.

"Organizations of all types can be victimized by DDoS attacks," said Dehus. "Using the intelligence and visibility from the Lumen Platform, Black Lotus Labs can protect Lumen DDoS customers with better insights from the ever-growing list of threats to business-critical systems and data."

Additional Resources:

Read the full Q2 2022 DDoS report.

Visit the Lumen Quarterly DDoS report archive.

Learn about Lumen's comprehensive DDoS mitigation services.

About Lumen Technologies and the People of Lumen:

Lumen is guided by our belief that humanity is at its best when technology advances the way we live and work. With approximately 450,000 route fiber miles and serving customers in more than 60 countries, we deliver the fastest, most secure platform for applications and data to help businesses, government and communities deliver amazing experiences. Learn more about the Lumen network, edge cloud, security, communication and collaboration solutions and our purpose to further human progress through technology at news.lumen.com/home, LinkedIn: /lumentechnologies, Twitter: @lumentechco, Facebook: /lumentechnologies, Instagram: @lumentechnologies and YouTube: /lumentechnologies. Lumen and Lumen Technologies are registered trademarks in the United States.

Services not available everywhere. Business customers only. Lumen may change, cancel or substitute products and services, or vary them by service area at its sole discretion without notice. 2021 Lumen Technologies. All Rights Reserved.

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SOURCE Lumen Technologies
NEW YORK, Aug. 8, 2022 /PRNewswire/  Lument Finance Trust, Inc. (NYSE: LFT) ("we", "LFT" or "the Company") today reported its second quarter 2022 results. GAAP net income attributable to common shareholders for the quarter was $2.2 million, or $0.04 per share of common stock. Distributable earnings for the quarter was $2.5 million, or $0.05 per share of common stock. The Company has also issued a detailed presentation of its results, which can be viewed at www.lumentfinancetrust.com.

Conference Call and Webcast Information

The Company will also host a conference call on Tuesday, August 9, 2022, at 8:30 a.m. ET to provide a business update and discuss the financial results for the second quarter of 2022. The conference call may be accessed by dialing 1-888-336-7151 (US) or 1-412-902-4251 (International). Note: there is no passcode; please ask the operator to be joined into the Lument Finance Trust call. A live webcast, on a listen-only basis, is also available and can be accessed through the URL:

https://app.webinar.net/gkJDVWDxQ26

For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, a recorded replay will be available for on-demand viewing approximately one hour after the end of the event through the Company's website https://lumentfinancetrust.com/ and by telephone dial-in. The replay call-in number is 1-877-344-7529 (US) or 1-412-317-0088 (International) with passcode 1350754.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In this release, the Company presents certain financial measures that are not calculated according to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP"). Specifically, the Company is presenting distributable earnings, which constitutes a non-GAAP financial measure within the meaning of Item 10(e) of Regulation S-K and is net income under GAAP. While we believe the non-GAAP information included in this press release provides supplemental information to assist investors in analyzing our results, and to assist investors in comparing our results with other peer issuers, these measures are not in accordance with GAAP, and they should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, our financial information calculated in accordance with GAAP. The methods of calculating non-GAAP financial measures may differ substantially from similarly titled measures used by other companies. Our GAAP financial results and the reconciliations from these results should be carefully evaluated.

Distributable Earnings

Distributable Earnings is a non-GAAP measure, which we define as GAAP net income (loss) attributable to holders of common stock computed in accordance with GAAP, including realized losses not otherwise included in GAAP net income (loss) and excluding (i) non-cash equity compensation, (ii) depreciation and amortization, (iii) any unrealized gains or losses or other similar non-cash items that are included in net income for that applicable reporting period, regardless of whether such items are included in other comprehensive income (loss) or net income (loss), and (iv) one-time events pursuant to changes in GAAP and certain material non-cash income or expense items after discussions with the Company's board of directors and approved by a majority of the Company's independent directors. Distributable Earnings mirrors how we calculate Core Earnings pursuant to the terms of our management agreement between our Manager and us, or our Management Agreement, for purposes of calculating the incentive fee payable to our Manager.

While Distributable Earnings excludes the impact of any unrealized provisions for credit losses, any loan losses are charged off and realized through Distributable Earnings when deemed non-recoverable. Non-recoverability is determined (i) upon the resolution of a loan (i.e. when the loan is repaid, fully or partially, or in the case of foreclosures, when the underlying asset is sold), or (ii) with respect to any amount due under any loan, when such amount is determined to be non-collectible.

We believe that Distributable Earnings provides meaningful information to consider in addition to our net income (loss) and cash flows from operating activities determined in accordance with GAAP. We believe Distributable Earnings is a useful financial metric for existing and potential future holders of our common stock as historically, over time, Distributable Earnings has been a strong indicator of our dividends per share of common stock. As a REIT, we generally must distribute annually at least 90% of our taxable income, subject to certain adjustments, and therefore we believe our dividends are one of the principal reasons stockholders may invest in our common stock. Furthermore, Distributable Earnings help us to evaluate our performance excluding the effects of certain transactions and GAAP adjustments that we believe are not necessarily indicative of our current loan portfolio and operations, and is a performance metric we consider when declaring our dividends.

Distributable Earnings does not represent net income (loss) or cash generated from operating activities and should not be considered as an alternative to GAAP net income (loss), or an indication of GAAP cash flows from operations, a measure of our liquidity, or an indication of funds available for our cash needs.

GAAP to Distributable Earnings Reconciliation Three months Ended June 30, 2022 Reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP Information Net Income attributable to common shareholders $ 2,158,810 Adjustments for non-Distributable Earnings Unrealized (gain) on mortgage servicing rights Unrealized provision for loan losses (81,216) 351,914 Subtotal 270,698 Other Adjustments Recognized compensation expense related to restricted common stock 4,476 Adjustment for income taxes 25,669 Subtotal 30,145 Distributable Earnings $ 2,459,653 Weighted average shares outstanding - Basic and Diluted 52,226,141 Distributable Earnings per weighted share outstanding - Basic and Diluted $ 0.05

About LFT

LFT is a Maryland corporation focused on investing in, financing and managing a portfolio of commercial real estate debt investments. The Company primarily invests in transitional floating rate commercial mortgage loans with an emphasis on middle-market multi-family assets.

LFT is externally managed and advised by OREC Investment Management, LLC d/b/a Lument Investment Management, a Delaware limited liability company.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

Investors, security holders and other interested persons may find additional information regarding the Company at the SEC's Internet site at http://www.sec.gov/ or the Company website www.lumentfinancetrust.com or by directing requests to: Lument Finance Trust, 230 Park Avenue, 20th Floor, New York, NY 10169, Attention: Investor Relations.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements included in this press release, any related webcast / conference call, and other oral statements made by our representatives from time to time may constitute forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements include information about possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations, plans and objectives. You can identify forward-looking statements by use of words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "estimate," "plan," "continue," "intend," "should," "may," "will," "seek," "would," "could," or similar expressions or other comparable terms, or by discussions of strategy, plans or intentions. Statements regarding the following subjects, among others, may be forward-looking: the return on equity; the yield on investments; the ability to borrow to finance assets; and risks associated with investing in real estate assets, including changes in business conditions and the general economy. Forward-looking statements are based on our beliefs, assumptions and expectations of our future performance, taking into account all information currently available to us on the date of this press release or the date on which such statements are first made. Actual results may differ from expectations, estimates and projections. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements in this press release and/or any related webcast / conference call and should consider carefully the factors described in Part I, Item IA "Risk Factors" in our annual reports on Form 10-K, our quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other current or periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), when evaluating these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and are generally beyond our control. Additionally, many of these risks and uncertainties are currently amplified by and will continue to be amplified by, or in the future may be amplified by, the COVID-19 outbreak. Additional information concerning these and other risk factors are contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year-ended December 31, 2021, which is available on the Securities and Exchange Commission's website at www.sec.gov. Except as required by applicable law, we disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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SOURCE Lument Finance Trust, Inc.
SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Monroe shocks and struts, a leading global brand from Tenneco Inc.'s (NYSE: TEN) DRiV Motorparts group, recently launched new Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense products in North America. Designed specifically for luxury European vehicles equipped with electronic suspensions, Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense is engineered as a direct replacement for OE electronic units, matching their design for an easy, "plug and play" installation while offering a customizable driving experience, from comfort-focused to sport-performance.

Featuring Monroe Intelligent Suspension's Continuously Variable Semi-Active (CVSAe) with external valve technology, RideSense products deliver optimal control and road-holding capabilities under all types of driving conditions, adapting as road conditions change. These new products connect directly into the OE electronic control unit that is part of the vehicle's OE suspension and mounting locations, offering the same fit and valving to provide performance and durability trusted by OE manufacturers. Each Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense product contains a self-lubricating fluid seal to retain gas and reduce excess friction against the chrome-plated piston rod, providing longer shock life through the reduction of premature wear. Each RideSense shock or strut is backed by Monroe's new 5-Year limited warranty*.

18 new RideSense part numbers are now available in the US and Canada with exclusive** coverage for a variety of premium European vehicles. Popular applications include shock absorbers for the 2015-2007 Mercedes Benz C-Class; and 2010-2000 Volvo S60 AWD and 2008-1999 V70 AWD.

"With our newest product offering for select European vehicles, we are pleased to continue expanding the Monroe product line with the introduction of Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense shocks and struts," said Joe Robinson, brand director, Monroe. "These new products allow us to bring Monroe's OE electronic technology expertise from our Advanced Suspension Technology Group to the aftermarket repair channel and to offer our customers a better repair option for their premium European vehicles."

To learn more about Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense, or Monroe's other ride control products, visit www.monroe.com or contact a Monroe supplier. Connect with Monroe on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

* Monroe Intelligent Suspension RideSense shocks and struts are warranted against defects and wear-out when used on private passenger cars and light trucks under normal operating conditions for five (5) years from date-of-purchase, provided the original purchaser owns the vehicle on which they were originally installed. Restrictions apply. See www.monroe.com for more information.

**As of July 1, 2022

About Tenneco

Tenneco is one of the world's leading designers, manufacturers and marketers of automotive products for original equipment and aftermarket customers, with full year 2021 revenues of $18 billion and approximately 71,000 team members working at more than 260 sites worldwide. Through our four business groups, Motorparts, Performance Solutions, Clean Air and Powertrain, Tenneco is driving advancements in global mobility by delivering technology solutions for diversified global markets, including light vehicle, commercial truck, off-highway, industrial, motorsport and the aftermarket.

Visit www.tenneco.com to learn more.

CONTACT:

Karen Shulhan (DRiV)  313.617.2086[email protected]

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SOURCE DRiV
SANTA ANA, Calif., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Broadstone Atlas, developed by Alliance Residential and managed by Greystar, has applied for LEED Gold Certification for the newly completed 483-unit apartment home community which includes several green features.

"We are always looking at ways to develop projects that meet the needs of our residents while also being mindful of our environment," Jonas Bronk - Managing Director at Alliance Residential said. "We worked with Architect Orange, Hendy Interior Design and MJS landscape architects to incorporate several green features into this new community to ensure that Broadstone Atlas provides a modern, vibrant lifestyle while also being environmentally-conscious and energy-efficient."

Among Broadstone Atlas' green features include:

A Life Source Water Filtration System that provides filtered water to every home.

Water efficient plumbing fixtures including WaterSense certified toilets, showerheads, and lavatory faucets for indoor water savings.

A high-efficiency irrigation system with native and/or adapted plant selections for outdoor water savings; and a cool roof that reflects heat away from the building.

High-efficiency mechanical equipment that results in lower energy usage and higher indoor air quality.

Building materials such as paint, flooring, adhesives, and sealants that contain low or zero VOC content.

Onsite open space to promote a balanced lifestyle and encourage outdoor activities.

Additionally, the community is located within a half mile of community resources and transit stops to reduce the need for a car.

Broadstone Atlas has studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units as well as penthouse floorplans. Penthouses have a driven snow color scheme and herringbone flooring. Every apartment home includes a wine fridge and Dwelo smart home connectivity, which provides keyless and fobless entry to homes and amenities.

The Kings Canyon Podcast Studio for all residents to use, meditation studio, office space for multiple people with mini-trailer coffee bar and the Channel Islands pool headlines the community amenities. Additionally, Broadstone Atlas' Joshua Tree clubroom has a 220-inch TV and a fourth-floor deck with views of Tustin and custom murals  one by Carly Ealey and the other by Sasha Seyb.

The community is located less than 10 minutes from John Wayne Airport and 20 minutes from Disneyland and Newport Beach with easy freeway access. The Tustin Legacy shopping center is minutes away with restaurants, a movie theater and other shops. Directly across from Broadstone Atlas is the Tustin Legacy Park and Mess Hall.

For more information, or to book a tour, please visit www.broadstoneatlas.com or call 949-996-0051.

About Alliance Residential Company

Alliance Residential Company is one of the largest and most active rental residential real estate developers in the United States. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona with 19 regional offices, Alliance is focused on the development, construction, and acquisition of residential communities across 17 states and 33 metropolitan markets. Alliance develops high-end Broadstone multifamily communities, Holden senior housing communities, and workforce housing properties through its Prose brand. To learn more visit www.allresco.com.

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SOURCE Greystar
AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Old Republic Title Insurance Group, one of the largest title insurance groups in the United States, and ClosingLock, the leading wire fraud prevention platform for the real estate industry, are now working together to help combat wire fraud for Old Republic Title's agents.

"Old Republic Title is one of the largest and most respected brands in the title insurance industry. We are excited to be working with them to help combat wire fraud in the real estate industry." says Andy White, CEO and co-founder of ClosingLock.

ClosingLock is modernizing the real estate world's way of transferring information to eliminate wire fraud. The company provides a secure, easy-to-use platform for title companies, law firms, and other financial services to protect themselves and their clients from wire fraud. ClosingLock has protected over $100 billion in real estate funds to date.

Headquartered in Tampa, Fla., Old Republic Title is comprised of a multitude of title and related services companies, including one of the largest title insurers in the United States. Its underwriters are Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, formed in 1907, and American Guaranty Title Insurance Company, dating back to 1899. The Company has a national network of more than 275 branch and subsidiary offices, and roughly 8,000 independent, authorized policy-issuing title agents.

For more information please contact:Abigail White, VP of Communications, [email protected]

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SOURCE ClosingLock
Initiatives include curbside pickup and home delivery.

BOSTON, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- OneView Commerce today announced it successfully delivered a series of key digital initiatives leveraging OneView's Unified Commerce Platform for Kroger.

"Using OneView's platform, we continue to deliver an innovative associate experience"

To meet changing shopper needs, America's largest grocer leveraged OneView's headless commerce capabilities to finalize the digital orders when those orders are delivered at curbside pickup or via home delivery. OneView's Unified Commerce platform powers eCommerce pickup and delivery experiences at more than 1,000 Kroger locations.

"Using OneView's platform, we continue to deliver an innovative associate experience," said Sriram Samu, Customer Technology Vice President at Kroger. "The solution helps us create a seamless associate experience through guided processes and simplified trainingultimately reducing our customer wait times."

Kroger development teams leverage OneView's unified commerce transaction engine to meet both store associates' and their customers' rapidly evolving needs across modalities.

"We are pleased to support Kroger's phenomenal success in speeding delivery of solutions based on their strategic business transformation priorities and customers' needs," said OneView Chief Executive Officer Linda Palanza. "Their results are a testament to our vision for unified commerce and our platform's power to enhance customer and store associate experiences while enabling retailers to retain control over the development and delivery of new brand-based interactions."

Learn more at www.oneviewcommerce.com or follow us on Twitter @oneviewcommerce

About OneView Commerce OneView Commerce creates the digital pathway for retailers to transform store and customer experiences with a unified commerce transaction engine that abstracts basket creation, calculation and checkout functions from siloed, disparate store and commerce systems. By synthesizing data and transaction execution to the omnichannel 'moment of action,' OneView empowers digital reach into stores, improves inventory accuracy, reduces substitutions and provides actionable insight into active baskets with every product scan. The Kroger Company, Australia Post and Molton Brown use OneView's smart basket technology to overcome legacy constraints and unlock store technology from static checkout lanes into the hands of customers and associates for click-to-brick engagement in pick and pack, pickups, delivery, scan and go, next-gen point of sale, and omnichannel order management. Learn more at www.oneviewcommerce.com or follow us on Twitter @oneviewcommerce

OneView Commerce Contact: Lexy JohnsonOneView CommerceE: [email protected]P: 617.279.0549 x716

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SOURCE OneView Commerce, Inc.
22-Year Company Veteran to Lead Marketing and Continue to Strengthen Planet Fitness' Position as the Affordable Leader in Health & Fitness

HAMPTON, N.H., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Planet Fitness, Inc. (NYSE: PLNT) (the "Company"), today announced that Jamie Medeiros, Vice President of National Marketing, has been promoted to Chief Brand Officer. Ms. Medeiros, a 22-year Company veteran, will lead the brand strategy and work collaboratively with agencies and across the organization to ensure the brand vision comes to life through national and local marketing strategy, creative, brand marketing sponsorships and activations, and social media. She will report directly to Chris Rondeau, Chief Executive Officer.

"Jamie has played a pivotal role in developing and leading the breakthrough national marketing campaigns that have built our brand over the past two decades, including iconic advertising campaigns like 'Lift Things' and 'No Gymtimidation,' along with pillar marketing sponsorships like our New Year's Eve celebration in Times Square," said Chris Rondeau, Chief Executive Officer. "She brings tremendous brand marketing leadership experience and institutional knowledge to this role, in addition to her strong ability to collaborate internally, with franchisees, and agency partners. I am confident that Jamie will continue to drive impactful results and strengthen our position as a leader in health and fitness."

Ms. Medeiros joined Planet Fitness in 2000, where she worked at the front desk in the Company's third location before transitioning to the Planet Fitness corporate marketing team. Throughout her tenure, she has held roles of increasing responsibility, with her most recent position being Vice President of National Marketing. Ms. Medeiros has been instrumental in developing and refining Planet Fitness' marketing strategy and differentiated 'Judgement Free' positioning in the fitness industry, which has helped grow the brand and increase membership to 16.5 million members and 2,324 stores today.

"It's been an honor to help build the Planet Fitness brand, and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to lead marketing in this new role," said Ms. Medeiros. "I truly believe the best is yet to come and look forward to motivating and inspiring people to get moving and to make their health and wellness a priority, through our differentiated positioning and approach to affordable fitness."

About Planet Fitness

Founded in 1992 in Dover, NH, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the United States by number of members and locations. As of June 30, 2022, Planet Fitness had 16.5 million members and 2,324 stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico and Australia. The Company's mission is to enhance people's lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone. More than 90% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women.

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SOURCE Planet Fitness, Inc.
ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Policing Institute (the Institute) is proud to announce and welcome Robin S. Engel, PhD as the Institute's Senior Vice President, becoming the second highest-ranking executive within the national non-profit research and policy organization dedicated to excellence in policing and community safety through science and innovation.

Dr. Robin S. Engel joins the National Policing Institute as the Senior Vice President.

Dr. Robin S. Engel, a nationally known and highly respected criminologist, has served as a Professor of Criminal Justice at the University of Cincinnati (UC) and Director of the Center for Police Research and Policy. From 2015 to 2019, she served as UC's Vice President for Safety and Reform, where her administrative duties included oversight of daily operations of the university's public safety department and implementation of comprehensive police reforms in the aftermath of a critical incident involving the fatal police shooting of an unarmed motorist.

For more than two decades, Dr. Engel has worked to engage in policing research designed to reduce harm in communities and make police-community encounters safer, promoting best practices through academic-practitioner partnerships. She has served as Principal Investigator for over 90 studies and projects and was ranked among the top academics in the field of criminal justice and criminology based on publications in prestigious peer-reviewed journals.

Dr. Engel currently serves as a governor-appointed member of the Ohio Collaborative Community-Police Advisory Board, co-chair of the International Association of Chiefs of Police's Research Advisory Committee, and member of the National Policing Institute's Council on Policing Reforms and Race. Dr. Engel currently leads research teams implementing and evaluating violence reduction, police training, and police reform initiatives across dozens of cities, along with a large-scale evaluation of state-mandated police reforms.

"I am honored to join the Institute's remarkable team working every day to enhance the efficacy of policing and bring safety to communities," said Dr. Engel.

"As a top scholar and a trusted, leading authority in police science, Dr. Engel brings valuable expertise, strategy, and thought leadership to the Institute, further enabling us to bring about positive and evidence-informed changes and improvements to policing and public safety in communities nationwide. On behalf of the Institute's Board of Directors and staff, we are proud to welcome Dr. Engel and her team to the Institute," said James Burch, the Institute's President. The Institute's Board Chair, Ronal Serpas, PhD of Loyola University, added, "we are proud to welcome such a prestigious scholar to the Institute who will help us to lead the way in advancing policing in an independent and non-partisan manner as our mission requires."

Dr. Engel will lead the transition of her work and her team into the National Policing Institute over the next several months. As the Senior Vice President for the Institute, Dr. Engel will provide leadership and oversight of the Institute's scientific investments and strategy and the Institute's work to translate and integrate research into practices.

Established in 1970, the National Policing Institute (formerly the National Police Foundation) is an independent, non-partisan, non-profit organization dedicated to pursuing excellence in policing through science and innovation. The Institute has researched all aspects of policing and is leading the way in promoting and sharing evidence-based practices and innovation among law enforcement. The Institute works with policing organizations, public safety agencies and communities nationwide and internationally, providing research, translation, training, technical assistance, and modern technology implementation. The Institute has long been a highly respected leader in conducting rigorous, high-quality scientific experiments in policing.

Contact: Jaime OwensDirector of Communications and Marketing[email protected]202-721-9773

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SOURCE National Policing Institute
ST. JOHNS, Fla., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The turmoil in Florida's homeowners insurance market is being caused primarily by the state's outsized number of lawsuits and its commonplace fraud schemes, according to an Issues Brief published today by the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I).

"Florida has been the home of too much litigation and too many fraudulent roof-replacement schemes."

"Floridians are seeing homeowners' insurance become costlier and scarcer because for years the state has been the home of too much litigation and too many fraudulent roof-replacement schemes," said Sean Kevelighan, CEO, Triple-I. "These two factors contributed enormously to the net underwriting losses Florida's homeowners' insurers cumulatively incurred between 2017 and 2021." Florida homeowners pay the highest average property insurance premium in the U.S. at $4,231, nearly three times the U.S. average of $1,544, according to Triple-I's analysis.

The net underwriting losses for Florida domestic property companies exceeded $1 billion in both 2020 and 2021, Triple-I's Issues Brief noted, leading to insurer insolvencies and rating downgrades. Some insurers who were able to withstand these negative financial trends have reduced their exposure to Florida's homeowners market by issuing non-renewal notices to existing policyholders or restricting the writing of new business in the state.

Two major hurricanes made landfall in the state in 2017 (Category 4 Irma) and 2018 (Category 5 Michael). The past three hurricane seasons (2019-2021), however, have been relatively quiet ones for Florida. Insurers are experiencing net underwriting losses in large part because Florida is the site of 79 percent of all homeowners insurance lawsuits over claims filed nationwide while Florida's homeowners insurers receive only 9 percent of all U.S. homeowners property insurance claims, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Floridians For Lawsuit Reform estimates 130,000 property claim lawsuits will be filed in 2022, largely due to Florida's favorable litigation environment.

"Florida has one of the most generous attorney-fee mechanisms in the countrysometimes resulting in insurer payment of plaintiff attorney fees far greater than the damage awards given to the policyholders who are the plaintiffs themselves," the Triple-I's Issues Brief explained. "A 2017 state Supreme Court decision allows courts to award plaintiffs' attorneys 2-2.5 times their hourly billing rate when courts rule in favor of policyholders. These "contingency fee multipliers" can result in attorneys receiving several hundred thousand dollars for a simple lawsuit." The homeowners insurer pays the plaintiff's attorney fees as well as damages to the plaintiff, the insurer's policyholder, in the event of a court ruling in favor of the policyholder.

Triple-I's Issues Brief also highlights the steps taken by unethical roofing contractors, who ask homeowners insurance policyholders to sign assignment of benefits (AOB) forms or direction to pay agreements, giving the contractor the right to collect claim payments directly from the insurer and file a lawsuit without the knowledge or consent of the policyholder. These lawsuits require insurers to allocate resources to defend themselves in court, with the policyholder often unaware the signed AOB form has set into motion potential litigation.

"As insurers fail or leave, Citizens Property Insurance Corp.  the state-run home insurer of last resort  is swelling with business. Citizens had 931,357 policies in force as of June 30, 2022, up from 638,263 policies in June 2021 and 474,630 policies in June 2020. Citizens could spend as much as $100 million this year on litigation expenses," Triple-I's Issues Brief reported.

RELATED LINKSArticle: Insurance FraudFacts & Statistics: Insurance FraudVideo: Contractor Fraud Awareness Tips

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SOURCE Insurance Information Institute
WASHINGTON  Renaming nine Army bases linked to the Confederacy could cost more than $21 million, according to a report to Congress by a commission appointed to study the issue.

Congress mandated last year that an appointed Naming Commission come up with potential new names for the nine installations that now honor Confederate generals from the Civil War. The report, delivered to Congress on Monday, breaks down the costs and processes of selecting and implementing the name changes.

The commission in May released the new names for the bases, which are all in former Confederate states and were named during the 1910s and 1940s amid the Souths Jim Crow era.

Costs are associated with renaming or removing names, symbols, displays, monuments, or paraphernalia that commemorate the Confederate States of America or any person who served voluntarily with the Confederate States of America, according to the report.

These are the bases, their suggested new names and cost estimate to make the changes:

 Fort Bragg, N.C., to Fort Liberty  $6,374,230

 Fort Polk, La., to Fort Johnson  $1,390,240

 Fort Benning, Ga., to Fort Moore  $4,928,574

 Fort Gordon, Ga., to Fort Eisenhower  $580,000

 Fort A.P. Hill, Va., to Fort Walker  $1,982,227

 Fort Hood, Texas, to Fort Cavazos  $1,539,885

 Fort Pickett, Va., to Fort Barfoot  $322,900

 Fort Rucker, Ala., to Fort Novosel  $1,526,645

 Fort Lee, Va., to Fort Gregg-Adams  $2,396,600

Now that the report has been delivered to Congress, lawmakers will vote whether to approve the names, which will then go to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to carry out the renaming formally, according to the commission.

The commission also in its report said hundreds of other Defense Department assets such as roads, buildings and paraphernalia will need to be renamed. It suggested using some of the names not used from its list of 461 worthy, high-caliber candidates as options.

Some of those names include former Secretary of State and Army Gen. Colin Powell, Medal of Honor recipient Sgt. 1st Class Alwyn Cashe, former General of the Army Omar Bradley and the first Black female sergeant major in the Army, Command Sgt. Maj. Mildred Kelly.
This story includes descriptions of sexual assault and physical violence.

Originally published by ProPublica and the Texas Tribune.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can receive confidential help by calling the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Networks 24/7 toll-free support line at 800-656-4673 or visiting its website. You can be connected to a hotline staff member in your area or to the Department of Defenses Safe Helpline.

Christian Alvarado began to type as he sat alone in an interrogation room at Fort Bliss, a sprawling Army post in El Paso, Texas. Hed spent most of the previous seven hours hooked up to a polygraph, answering a military investigators questions about an allegation that hed sexually assaulted a fellow soldier.

His story had changed several times during the interview in late July 2020. The investigator told Alvarado hed already failed two polygraph tests, then left the room so that the young soldier could type up his account in a sworn statement. With his fingers on the keyboard, Alvarado began describing the night in December 2019 that he spent in the barracks with a female soldier hed met that day.

She was drunk and so was I, Alvarado, an Army private first class, typed on the investigators computer. We had sex, but she passed out.

He wrote that hed lied about the encounter being consensual in previous interviews with investigators because he wanted to protect his Army career.

When Alvarado was done with his written admission, the military investigator walked back in the room. He asked Alvarado why he continued to have sex with the woman after she passed out. I was in the moment, the 20-year-old soldier replied.

The investigator then asked Alvarado about another allegation against him. An Army chaplains assistant had accused him of sexually assaulting her in May 2020 after a house party. Sex with her was wrong due to how intoxicated she was, Alvarado said, but he would not agree to a sworn statement about the second allegation because it would just be icing on the cake.

Alvarado told the investigator that hed had sex with 42 women in the past four years, about a quarter of whom were intoxicated at the time. His sexual experiences had become boring and they blurred together, he said, to the point that he struggled to remember specific details about his partners.

At the end of the daylong interrogation, Alvarados commanders didnt place him in detention or under any restrictions beyond the orders he had already received to stay at least 100 feet away from the two women who had accused him of assault, according to records. He was free to leave.

A month later, he sexually assaulted another woman.

Had Alvarados case been handled by civilians and not the military, his written admission could have been enough evidence to quickly issue an arrest warrant, according to two lawyers who previously worked for the El Paso County district attorneys office.

I would have felt comfortable charging at that point, said Penny Hamilton, who led the Rape and Child Abuse Unit at the district attorneys office and later served as an El Paso County magistrate judge. When you have the offender admitting the sexual act took place and you have the offender admitting that the alleged victim couldnt have consented because she was passed out, then you have the elements of a criminal charge.

In Texas civilian system, a person charged with sexual assault goes before a magistrate judge, whod set a bail amount that experts said could easily be in the tens of thousands of dollars. Civilian magistrates and judges use bail to ensure suspects show up at trial. Suspects are released only if they can pay the bond.

The military justice system has no bail. Many decisions about who should be detained for serious crimes before trial are made not by judges but by commanders, who are not required to be trained lawyers.

Recent congressional reforms changed the system, which has long drawn criticism for the extensive discretion commanders wield. While the revisions stripped some of their authority, commanders continue to control various aspects of the judicial process, including deciding whether service members accused of crimes should be detained while awaiting trial, a process called pretrial confinement.

A ProPublica and Texas Tribune investigation into how commanders in the Army, the nations largest military branch, use pretrial confinement revealed a system that treats soldiers unevenly and draws little outside scrutiny.

The news organizations obtained data from the Army on nearly 8,400 courts-martial over the past decade under the Freedom of Information Act. The resulting analysis, the first-of-its-kind, showed that soldiers accused of sexual assault are less than half as likely to be placed in pretrial confinement than those accused of offenses like drug use and distribution, disobeying an officer or burglary.

The analysis showed that, on average, soldiers had to face at least eight counts of sexual offenses before they were placed in pretrial confinement as often as soldiers charged with drug or burglary crimes.

That disparity has grown in the past five years. The rate of pretrial confinement more than doubled in cases involving drug offenses, larceny and disobeying a superior commissioned officer, but it remained roughly the same for sexual assault cases like Alvarados, the analysis found.

For instance, the Army opted against pretrial confinement for a staff sergeant who was accused of raping the wife of a soldier in his command at Fort Bliss, while at another post a 19-year-old Texas woman was placed in detention for more than three months for using drugs and mouthing off to commanders.

Justice thats arbitrary is not justice, Col. Don Christensen, a former chief prosecutor for the Air Force, said. It shouldnt come down to the whims of a particular commander.

Army officials defended the system. They said that soldiers accused of violent offenses arent necessarily more likely to get pretrial confinement. The nature of the offense is one factor to consider in a decision to put someone in pretrial confinement, but it is not the sole factor, said Lt. Col. Brian K. Carr, chief of the operations branch at the Office of the Judge Advocate Generals Criminal Law Division, in an email. Characteristics of individual soldiers and their willingness to follow orders are also important factors, Carr said.

He said that, under military regulations, commanders must first decide whether theres good reason to believe that a soldier committed a crime and is either likely to flee before trial or engage in serious criminal misconduct. Commanders have to consider if other restrictions, such as directing soldiers to remain in military housing or requiring regular check-ins with superiors, are sufficient to keep them out of trouble. They should also weigh a soldiers military service record, character, mental condition and any previous misconduct.

In March 2020, months before Alvarado was interviewed about the sexual assault allegations, commanders reprimanded him after El Paso police arrested him for firing an AR-15 outside of his girlfriends apartment. Alvarado told police at the time that he was attempting to scare off a pack of coyotes. An El Paso County warrant in the case remains outstanding.

Despite the reprimand and the initial sexual assault allegations, former Fort Bliss spokesperson Lt. Col. Allie Scott said that the conditions to justify placing Alvarado in pretrial confinement were not met. Scott, who recently transferred to another post, declined to clarify. She said Fort Bliss would not comment on internal deliberations.

Nearly a month after Alvarado walked out of the interrogation room at Fort Bliss, an Army captain determined there was probable cause that he committed sexual assault, according to records obtained by ProPublica and the Tribune. In a letter to the news organizations, Alvarado would later say he was innocent but declined to answer specific questions.

The Armys decision, and the failure to quickly act on it, came too late for Lee, a civilian and the third woman whom he would later be charged with sexually assaulting.

Lee, who agreed to go by her middle name for this story, still relives the moment in late August when Alvarado assaulted her in her living room. He pinned her down on her couch and wrapped his hand around her throat while her two children slept across the house.

She recalls calling a friend and crying weeks later when she learned from military investigators that Alvarado had previously been accused of sexual assault.

If something had been done sooner, he would have never gotten the chance to hurt me, Lee said.

A justice system led by military commanders

The U.S. military justice system dates back to the American Revolution. Yet the way in which the system works and how it diverges from the civilian legal process is unknown to many Americans. (About 8% of adults in the U.S. currently serve or have served in the active-duty and reserve military forces.)

The system was created to help commanders keep their fighting forces in line. So, at the start, courts handled only military-specific offenses like desertion or dereliction of duty.

George Washington needed a means to discipline his troops, said Rachel E. VanLandingham, a professor at Southwestern Law School in Los Angeles and a former Air Force judge advocate, which is a military attorney. It was very much a commanders tool.

Bail was never part of the military system because service members were often stationed in fortresses or remote, frontier garrisons, where commanders controlled their movements, said Joshua Kastenberg, a professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law and former Air Force judge advocate.

Civilian crimes were not tried at court-martial until the American Civil War, and then only as a way to prosecute Union soldiers who were accused of crimes in Confederate states, Kastenberg said.

For decades after, the military could tackle civilian offenses only during times of war.

Then the first and second world wars exposed a greater number of enlisted men and women to a justice system that was dramatically different from the civilian one. For example, the people representing them at trial were not required to be trained lawyers.

In an effort to bring the military more in line with civilian court practices, Congress developed the Uniform Code of Military Justice in 1950. This was a major turning point, giving the military  and, in turn, commanders  jurisdiction over civilian offenses like murder and sexual assault, not just during wars but in times of peace, Kastenberg said.

In the years since, the military pushed back against limiting commanders control. Some military legal experts interviewed by ProPublica and the Tribune maintain pretrial confinement is superior to the civilian bail system because a suspects freedom has nothing to do with their ability to pay. Criminal justice experts who oppose bail argue that it criminalizes poverty and penalizes people of color.

Critics of the military justice system say giving commanders authority over who gets detained reinforces an ongoing problem in the military. Commanders are an accused persons supervisor and have little experience or training to make consequential legal decisions.

Commanders have convinced themselves that they have some special insight shared by no others that makes them solely qualified to make prosecution decisions and control the justice system, said Christensen, now president of the nonprofit Protect Our Defenders, an organization that promotes military justice reform.

The most recent congressional push to shield the courts-martial process from commanders influence followed the 2020 murder of Vanessa Guillen, an Army specialist who was sexually harassed by a supervisor and then allegedly killed by another soldier at Fort Hood, Texas.

Guillens death helped build momentum for a long-standing effort by some lawmakers to dramatically reduce commanders role in the military justice system. A bill introduced by U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, a New York Democrat, proposed stripping commanders of the power to decide whether to prosecute serious offenses and giving that authority to military lawyers.

The military brass pushed back. To remove commanders from prosecution decisions, process, and accountability may have an adverse effect on readiness, mission accomplishment, good order and discipline, unit cohesion, trust, and loyalty between commanders and those they lead, Gen. Mark A. Milley, the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, wrote in a May 2021 letter to Oklahoma Sen. James Inhofe, the top Republican on the Armed Services Committee.

In the end, Congress approved a compromise last year that created a new office of military attorneys with the power to prosecute cases related to some serious crimes such as sexual assault, domestic violence, murder and kidnapping.

Commanders retained prosecutorial control over other offenses, like robbery, assault and distribution of controlled substances.

Under the new law, commanders also held on to authority over other parts of the judicial process, including pretrial confinement. They can consult military attorneys with legal questions, but they are not required to follow that advice. And while a magistrate judge reviews cases in which a person is placed in pretrial confinement, there is no such review when commanders opt against detaining soldiers accused of crimes.

A dangerous person

To understand the way that commanders discretion works in practice, consider the case of Randall S. Hughes, a Fort Bliss Army staff sergeant who was accused of raping the wife of one of his soldiers at a Super Bowl party in 2017.

The woman told ProPublica and the Tribune she repeatedly asked that the Army place Hughes in pretrial confinement after it began an investigation. Hughes commanders did not. They eventually decided against pursuing the case, citing evidence and advice from military counsel.

Hughes later moved to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey where, in May 2020, his 16-year-old daughter told military investigators that he had sexually assaulted her two months earlier.

Again, he was not detained.

Hughes commanders in New Jersey instead directed him to live on post and required him to check in by phone three times a day.

During the investigation into his daughters accusation, military law enforcement discovered allegations that years earlier Hughes sexually assaulted one ex-wife and raped another. The latter incident occurred while he was already under investigation for the rape at Fort Bliss. They learned a third ex-wife accused him of strangling her in 2015.

Hughes was again not put into pretrial confinement.

Matt Leonard, an Army spokesperson, said in an email that Hughes commanders took appropriate action to ensure the staff sergeant showed up at trial and did not engage in further serious misconduct. They also issued protective orders for the victims.

In a March 2021 plea deal, Hughes admitted to a number of charges, including raping the woman at the Super Bowl party and one of his ex-wives. He also was convicted of squeezing another ex-wifes neck with his hands. A judge sentenced him to almost 14 years in prison and dishonorably discharged him. He did not plead guilty to sexually assaulting his daughter but admitted to using indecent language with her and pulling her by the hair.

Hughes appeals attorney did not respond to an email requesting comment.

Chayla Madsen, Hughes first ex-wife and the mother of the daughter who accused him of sexual assault, said she agreed to the plea deal only because military attorneys said it would speed up the judicial process and be better for the victims.

Madsen used to believe the safest place her daughter could be was on a military base. Now she has no faith in a system that failed to take serious legal action against Hughes in 2017 when he was first accused of sexual assault.

They had every reason to believe he is a dangerous person, Madsen said.

Serial offenses

Fort Bliss, where Hughes was first accused of sexual assault, uses pretrial confinement significantly less often than the vast majority of Army posts, applying it at a rate of roughly 6% for cases without sexual offenses and 5% for sexual assault cases, according to the news organizations analysis.

Just as they had done with Hughes, Fort Bliss commanders similarly decided at various junctures not to detain Alvarado.

They had another opportunity two weeks after he assaulted Lee.

Military investigators guided the 30-year-old mother, who had a brief relationship with Alvarado before the assault, to contact him and see if he would acknowledge what happened on the night of Aug. 26, 2020, when he asked to come over to her house to talk.

While sitting in a room with investigators, Lee texted Alvarado and asked him to explain why he didnt stop when she told him to.

He apologized.

Do you even know what youre apologizing for?

My aggressive behavior.

Alvarado, it was more than aggressive. You choked me until I almost passed out and left bruises around my neck. Even when I told you to stop, you still shoved your hand down my pants. Why didnt you stop when I told you to?

The two texted for more than an hour. Lee kept pressing even after Alvarado attempted to end the conversation. Then he finally answered.

I choked you and fingered [you]. I dont want to talk about it.

After the admission, the Army ordered that Alvarado stay 100 feet away from Lee. He also had other restrictions, including a requirement that he check in with commanders seven times a day in person or by phone, text or video call.

Scott, the Fort Bliss spokesperson, said commanders determined Alvarados restrictions based on the information available to them at the time.

But six attorneys and military law experts expressed surprise that commanders still did not order him into pretrial confinement.

Hes under investigation for two sexual assaults, hes been told to leave these people alone and then we have credible evidence that hes committed another sexual assault, said Geoffrey S. Corn, a former Army officer and professor at the South Texas College of Law in Houston. Thats enough to prove to me two things: No. 1, hes dangerous and, No. 2, he might be a flight risk because hes not getting the message he has to behave.

One night, almost a month after the text exchange, Lee called 911 when her 10-year-old son told her that Alvarado had tapped on his bedroom window and said hello, according to a police report and an interview with Lee. Military police arrived quickly but could not locate anyone. Had Alvarado been there, he would have been in violation of the protective order that required him to stay away from Lee.

Scott said neither Fort Bliss investigators nor Alvarados commanders knew of the claim because military police files did not mention his name. Records obtained by ProPublica and the Tribune show that Lee shared Alvarados name and the fact that she had a protective order against him with a 911 dispatcher.

In late October, two months after Lee was assaulted, the Army formally charged Alvarado with three counts of sexual assault, as well as with strangling Lee and lying to investigators. Still, he was not detained.

By the end of December, Alvarado was in trouble again.

He was arrested for driving drunk during a trip to Arizona, where his family lives. Fort Bliss officials said they were not aware of the arrest because neither Alvarado nor the Scottsdale Police Department notified the post.

Alvarado then missed several required check-ins with commanders. Such failures could trigger pretrial confinement. They didnt. After a month of missed check-ins, Alvarados company commander increased how often he had to contact his superiors and required him to write a 1,000-word essay on the importance of Army leaders ensuring the safety and well-being of their Soldiers.

How long do we need to let a serial predator continue to violate orders and harm people? said Franklin Rosenblatt, a law professor who previously served as a Fort Bliss judge advocate from 2010 to 2012.

Different treatment

Army officials say that pretrial confinement should be a last resort because it detains soldiers before theyve been convicted of a crime. But Pvt. Olivia Ochoas experience shows how aggressive Army commanders can be even in cases with more minor infractions.

A San Antonio native, Ochoa became interested in military intelligence jobs after meeting a recruiter her senior year of high school. She joined the Army as a promising soldier in August 2020 shortly after graduating and was promoted in rank, according to her recruiter.

The 19-year-old soldier soon began to get in trouble. Months into her Army career, Ochoa was reprimanded for sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment after she and another soldier were accused of slapping each others butts, inner thighs and frequently flirting during formation in Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

The incident, which Ochoa denies, was the first in a series of run-ins with her drill sergeants, ranging from not carrying the appropriate amount of water in her water bottle to more serious issues like underage drinking and eating a THC edible.

Once I knew I was gonna get in trouble no matter how much I tried, I completely stopped trying, Ochoa said.

By May 2021, one of Ochoas drill sergeants recommended that she be released from the Army.

While waiting to be discharged, Ochoa said, she was sexually assaulted by another soldier at an off-post hotel. She initially worried that if she filed a report, the military would delay her release, but after her mental health began deteriorating, she decided to report the assault.

In July, Ochoa was caught with psychedelic mushrooms and what investigators believed to be a vape pen with THC. The Army charged her with drug possession and use.

Her commander placed her under restrictions that, among other things, allowed her to visit only the few buildings on post where she slept, ate and worked out.

Two days later, Ochoa got in trouble for refusing her superiors order to go back to bed after she left her room to check on a friend who was being placed in confinement. That was enough for commanders to place her in pretrial confinement the next day.

A military magistrate ordered Ochoas release about a week later, determining confinement was not warranted because she had not broken her restrictions.

Her freedom was short-lived.

In the week following her release, Ochoas commander again placed her in pretrial confinement after she was caught two days in a row at stores she had been barred from visiting, once trying to buy cough medicine she said she planned to take to get high.

Although the Armys case centered on drug use and possession, Ochoa was ultimately put in pretrial confinement both times for violating superior officers orders. Her commanders added seven new counts of disobeying and disrespecting superiors onto her drug case for reasons that included refusing to return to her room and visiting the on-post stores.

Ochoas actions showed that she should not be in the Army, but her punishment was excessive, said Rosenblatt, the law professor and former Army judge advocate. He said her case is an example of how pretrial confinement is used in arbitrary ways that can often be fueled by a commanders relationship with the soldier.

Commanders often interpret drug use as jeopardizing the morale or safety of the unit, whereas they tend to view sexual assaults as a conflict between two people, said Aniela Szymanski, a private attorney and Marine Corps Reserve judge advocate.

I think thats going to take some time for commanders to grow into having the same knee-jerk reaction to sexual assault offenses as they do to drug offenses, she said.

Ochoa spent 103 days in pretrial confinement. She stopped eating, barely slept and was losing her hair and eyelashes.

In November, after her initial trial date was pushed back by two months, Ochoa accepted a plea deal. She was sentenced to time served. During the hearing, Ochoa learned Army officials had decided not to pursue her sexual assault case, determining that they could not establish probable cause.

The decision was a surprise to Ochoa and her civilian lawyer, Sean Timmons, who said investigators did not interview key witnesses about the assault. Army officials later agreed to speak with additional people, but they came to the same conclusion and closed the case this year.

I believe if she was a soldier who they actually liked and wanted to see have a productive career, they probably would have already taken steps to do this investigation properly, Timmons, a former military attorney, said in an interview. But because they dont like her, theyre going to maltreat her and theyre going to do a half-assed job prosecuting him.

A Fort Huachuca spokesperson said the Army takes sexual assault allegations seriously and conducted a thorough and independent investigation into Ochoas case.

Broken

In March 2021, more than seven months after Alvarado confessed during his interrogation, he was placed in pretrial confinement.

By then, the allegations of sexual assault against him had drawn national attention. Asia Graham, the soldier who Alvarado acknowledged he sexually assaulted while she was unconscious, died at age 19 after accidentally overdosing on drugs. Before her death, Graham had written a letter to her mother, Nicole Graham, about the pain she felt because the Army had failed to take action against Alvarado.

The publicity around Grahams case caused two more women to come forward in an interview with the cable news network NewsNation and accuse Alvarado of assaulting them years earlier in Arizona. The women had not previously reported the incidents.

Commanders repeated decisions against pretrial confinement, which gave Alvarado the opportunity to assault Lee, did not draw public attention. But Alvarados civilian defense attorney last year, Sherry Bunn, told ProPublica and the Tribune that she believed Army leaders were simply reacting to the press and publicity and the political nature of Grahams and Guillens deaths when they decided to confine him. Army officials say he was put in pretrial confinement because of the additional allegations.

Nicole Graham said her daughter might still be alive had commanders placed Alvarado in detention earlier. That might have convinced her daughter, who was haunted by the assault, that the Army was taking the case seriously, the mother said.

I think she would have felt maybe stronger in her recovery and not self-medicated, she said.

Nicole Graham got the chance to face Alvarado on June 18, 2021, when a military judge found him guilty of sexually assaulting her daughter and Lee, of strangling Lee and of lying to investigators. The judge acquitted him of all other charges, including the sexual assault of the chaplains assistant. After the judges ruling, Nicole Graham read a statement from the stand about Asia: The military has let her down.

The judge sentenced Alvarado to 18 years and three months in a military prison and a dishonorable discharge from the Army. He got credit for the time he spent in pretrial confinement ahead of his trial: 108 days, five days more than Ochoa.

Because of the dishonorable discharge and the length of his sentence, Alvarados case is under automatic appeal. A decision is still pending. He remains in custody.

The fact that Alvarado is behind bars gives Lee little comfort. The attack changed her.

She still has nightmares about the presence of someone in her home, walking up the steps to her bedroom and beating on the door.

Life was not perfect before the assault. Shed lost a pregnancy before having her two children. Two marriages to Army soldiers ended. But she still had a life. She used to enjoy socializing, inviting friends over for game nights or going out around town.

Now, she stays home most of the time.

Shes thought about cutting her long hair, because attackers can grab you by the hair.

She no longer likes to be touched, especially on her face. Even her young daughter loving on her can sometimes cause her to panic.

Im a little more broken than I used to be.
When the big garage-type door rolled up Monday on a tan building in a field off Redstone Arsenals main roads, the view was down a 400-meter cleared path ending in a small mountain of red Alabama dirt.

Before too long, the Army says directed energy beams that could include lasers will streak down this target range from two new Army test laboratories unveiled Monday.

The new labs shown to local officials and news media are part of meeting Redstones responsibility to develop and build high-energy lasers and possibly other high-power beams. These beams will be capable of shooting down threats in a new era when Russia is deploying supersonic missiles in Ukraine.

The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC) is the Redstone command leading the new Directed Energy Systems Integration Lab, or DESIL. That 6,400 square foot facility shown to reporters holds equipment like a Three Axis Motion Simulator capable of simulating steering commands, rapid acceleration and other flight dynamics.

You see some of the components we have thats going to allow us to take everything from our software simulations and move that into some of our components and subsystems always doing verification and validation of our capabilities, SMDC commanding Lt. Gen. Daniel L. Karbler said. DESIL will also support rapid development and fielding of future weapons systems, the Army said.

The Army also unveiled a second facility at Redstone called the Air and Missile System Integration Laboratory, or AMSIL. That new lab is larger than DESIL and designed to rapidly move new weapons from testing to post-flight analysis. Soldiers will train here to fire the new weapons, the Army said.

The tour was conducted one day before the opening of the annual Space & Missile Defense Conference in Huntsville. Karbler said conference attendees will be hearing more about these weapons this week.

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GRAND HAVEN, Mich. (Tribune News Service)  The National Memorial Service honoring fallen U.S. Coast Guard officers was held Friday during the annual Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival.

There were no members of the Coast Guard who died during active duty in the past year.

Uniformed officers stood in rows in front of the visiting Coast Guard vessels docked alongside Escanaba Park, where many people stood or sat on the grass watching the ceremony.

U.S. Coast Guard Chaplain Daniel Mode was one of the speakers at the service. Visiting Grand Haven for a few days, Mode said he had plans to lead Mass at St. Marys Catholic Church in Spring Lake and would also be attending Saturdays parade.

The key thing that we do is care for all, Mode said of his job as chaplain. Were there 24/7, sometimes a phone call away  because our units ... in the Coast Guard are spread out especially here all throughout the Great Lakes.

Mode said he speaks with servicemen and servicewomen on some of their best and worst days.

Sometimes they just had a baby, or sometimes its a hard thing like they just lost a parent  so were there for them, he said. We provide that spiritual support when needed. As a Catholic priest, I love celebrating Mass wherever I go, so theres always a bunch of Catholics who may not have had Mass for months because of their deployment cycles and their operations, or they havent had the chance to get to a parish because theyre out at sea.

There are about 150 chaplains serving the Coast Guard, Mode said.

There were a couple hundred Coast Guard men and women standing tall and hearing, maybe for the first time at a ceremony like this, knowing their colleagues from the past have paid that ultimate price because they stood the watch, they were deployed, they said they would go into harms way, Mode said. And guess what? The next time a cutter has to go into harms way or a helicopter ... theyll think about that.

A group of retired Coast Guard servicemen who were enlisted together at various times, some who hadnt been back to Grand Haven or seen each other in decades, attended the memorial service.

It choked me up a little bit, said Christian Tramp, retired USCG officer. Weve lost shipmates in operational conditions, weve lost them when they passed away, we know the stories of the vessels.

Additionally, the men from out of town said they appreciate the way the Grand Haven community shows their support for the Coast Guard, especially during the annual festival.

Driving through the neighborhoods, the local support, its very heartwarming, said Tim Montowski, a retired Coast Guard officer. I have friends in other services and theyre amazed at the Coast Guard as far as the camaraderie and the support compared to other services. As a whole, thats unique to the Coast Guard and the Coast Guard families. It really is.

The Coast Guard Pipe Band also performed during the waterfront service.

The ceremony also celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Canadian Coast Guard, which serves a portion of the Great Lakes.

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(Tribune News Service)  Space Mountain was Lance Cpl. Dylan Merolas favorite ride. Disneyland was his happy place. So on Monday, Aug. 8, it was only fitting that a posthumous medal  commemorating the young Marine for his actions on Aug. 26 while standing guard at Kabuls airport in Afghanistan  was presented to his family during Disneylands somber Flag Retreat Ceremony.

The notable lowering of the flag is held daily at the theme parks Towne Square near the end of Main Street. But, a medal presentation there is a rarity, park officials said.

The ceremony included the playing of each service branchs theme song  The Cassions Go Rolling Along, Anchors Away, The Marines Hymn, Semper Paratus, and The U.S. Air Force Song. Veterans attending the event stepped forward to represent their respective branch. The Disneyland Band played while the Dapper Dans sang the lyrics.

After the U.S. flag was lowered, Marine Master Sgt. Patrick Hause  the Casualty Assistance Calls Officer (CACO) who assisted Merolas family after his death  presented the Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal posthumously to Merolas mother, Cheryl Rex, who attended with her children Branden Murrell, 24, and Olivia Hernandez, 14, along with her parents.

Receiving Dylans award at Disneyland was very emotional, said Rex. It was also calming to know that this was Dylans place where we spent a lot of time for Dylans whole life.

The medal with C for combat was presented to Merola for heroic service above self on the day that the Hamid Karzai International Airport was bombed during the evacuation of Americans and Afghan allies.

Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, was one of 11 Marines, a Navy sailor, and an Army soldier killed that day. Most Marines were part of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines at Camp Pendleton.

Two other Southern California Marines  Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, and Lance Cpl. Karem Nikoui  have also posthumously been awarded similar awards. All those killed received the Purple Heart Award, and in November, Congress approved for all 13 to receive Congressional Gold Medals, one of the highest civilian awards. The attack, which also killed 170 Afghans and wounded another 45 U.S. troops, was the deadliest against U.S. forces in Afghanistan since Aug. 6, 2011.

The idea to host the award ceremony at Disneyland came from Hauses wife, Monica, a veteran of the Army and U.S. Air Force. She became close with Rex and her children because of her husbands connection to the family: Patrick Hause was the knock on the door notifying Rex that her son had been killed.

The initial plan was to hold the presentation with Merolas unit at Camp Pendleton, but scheduling conflicts made that impossible. Monica Hause connected with officials at Disneyland. Rex and her children had been longtime pass holders at the theme park, said Susi Brown, a spokeswoman for the park, so putting the event together was extra special.

We felt a strong connection to them, Brown said. This is something very out of the ordinary.

Monica Hause worked with Brown and on Monday was happy with the results. She and her husband spent the day with Rex and her children and enjoyed rides, food, and a special behind-the-scenes tour of Walt Disneys apartment located just above the fire station at the theme park.

The SALUTE team, a Disneyland cast with military backgrounds, presented Rex with a cased flag that had once flown over Disneyland. And the family enjoyed front row seats for Mondays Main Street Electrical Parade and fireworks.

Im happy for them, Monica Hause said. It was a day of spending time with good friends and supporting them. For Rex, the event was emotional. As a single mother, Disneyland was her familys home away from home.

We had season passes here since my kids were small, she said. It was ours and Dylans happy place.

Getting the tribute during the Flag Retreat Ceremony was incredibly meaningful, Rex said. The family attended the Veterans Day ceremony there while visiting the theme park. And they stopped by for a commemoration even if it wasnt a holiday.

I taught my kids to respect and honor the flag here, she said.

That patriotism wore off not only on Merola but on Rexs oldest son, Branden. On Aug. 5, he graduated from boot camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and is now a private in the Marines.

Murrell reports back to Camp Pendleton on Aug. 16 where he will train to become either an air traffic controller or work with unmanned vehicles.

Im really proud of my brother for getting this award, he said. He always inspired me to do what I want to do. As the oldest brother, I stayed back, but when Dylan (died) I didnt see myself doing anything else but becoming a Marine. I always saw how military service members were respected, and I wanted to do something that people looked up to, too.

At the ceremony, Murrell witnessed the respect his brother received as hundreds of park visitors took time out of their day to watch the flag come down. Among the crowd, dozens of veterans participated as their service branch was recognized.

Among them was Leroy Homer, 63, a Navy veteran from Lompoc who was visiting Disneyland with his wife. The flag ceremony is a must-do whenever they visit the theme park.

When you sign the contract, were putting our lives on the line for our country, Homer said. We understand thats part of our job, and someone has to defend our way of life.

Attending Merolas ceremony made his visit to Disneyland all the more special.

Im here to honor a brother-in-arms, he said. We have to support each other.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (Tribune News Service)  Well see what happens.

The commanding general of U.S. Space Command gave that neutral answer to a Huntsville space and missile defense symposium Monday when asked about the commands headquarters moving to the city. Gen. James Dickinson said the move is pending final public comments on an environmental study of the proposed site on Redstone Arsenal. After that, he said, it goes to the Air Force.

Whats happening now is theyre doing a 30-day comment period on the draft environmental assessments, and I think were wrapping this up in the next week or two, Dickinson said.

When the first announcement came out for Huntsville, that was the preferred alternative in terms of the top six, Dickinson said. So, well see what happens when the 30-day period is up.

The Secretary of the Air Force will make the final decision after the latest comments are reviewed. The issue is to move or not to move the base to Huntsville from its startup location in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Dickinson, who has been based in Huntsville and knows many people on the Arsenal, jokingly pretended not to hear the headquarters question when asked by a moderator. The moderator was asking questions texted from the audience.

The general did mention a current Space Command asset in Colorado in his remarks. Speaking about the young operators sitting on (watch) console this very second, he said they are young officers but he trusts them because the command benefits from organizational competence, backed up by continuing space education and outreach.

This continuing education consists of foundational joint training coupled with learning opportunities at places like the National Security Space Institute in Colorado Springs, Dickinson said.

But Dickinson also cited Huntsvilles space defense heritage.

I would be remiss if I didnt thank the great guardians, sailors, marines and soldiers in the United States Space Command, Dickinson said of the organization he leads, and, in particular here in Huntsville today, the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command as well as the Missile Defense Agency and all you do to make sure that we have the right capabilities at the right time with the right people operating. Thank you.

Dickinson was preceded to the podium by Lt. Gen. Daniel L. Karbler, commander of the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command. That command is based at Redstone, and Karbler toured reporters Monday through the commands new directed energy research laboratory.

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NAGASAKI  Atomic bomb survivors and bereaved families of victims offered prayers for peace on Tuesday during the 77th ceremony marking the U.S. atomic bombing of Nagasaki.

In the ceremony held from 10:40 a.m. at Nagasaki Peace Park, Mayor Tomihisa Taue said in the Nagasaki Peace Declaration, "We must recognize that ridding ourselves of nuclear weapons is the only realistic way of protecting the Earth and humankind's future at this very moment."

The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and representatives from a record 83 countries, including nuclear powers China, France, the United Kingdom and the United States.

The peace bell of Nagasaki rang at 11:02 a.m., the time the atomic bomb exploded over the city on Aug. 9, 1945, and a moment of silence was observed.

In Mayor Taue's peace declaration, he cited the words of the late Chieko Watanabe. She had survived the bombing while working at a factory as part of student mobilization efforts, but was paralyzed from the waist down. Watanabe had once told the world to "ensure that nobody like me is ever made again." Based on this episode, Taue emphasized, "No matter what, nuclear weapons must not be used!"

He then talked about Russia invading Ukraine, saying: "Threats of using nuclear weapons have been made, sending shivers throughout the globe. This has shown the world that the use of nuclear weapons is not a 'groundless fear' but a 'tangible and present crisis.'"

Because of the invasion, the city did not invite the ambassadors of Russia and Belarus, which has been supporting Moscow's actions. The Ukrainian ambassador was absent after being infected with the novel coronavirus.

Taue also pointed out that the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) "were clearly reconfirmed as mutually complementing each other" during the first meeting of the states parties to the TPNW in June. He thus called on nuclear powers to set out specific processes for nuclear disarmament under the terms of the NPT, which stipulates their obligation to conduct good-faith disarmament negotiations.

The mayor also called on the Japanese government to show leadership in developing peaceful diplomacy within the international community, urging Japan -- "as the only nation to have suffered wartime atomic bombings" -- to sign and ratify the TPNW.

Takashi Miyata, 82, who took a pledge for peace on behalf of A-bomb survivors, said: "For 77 years, atomic bomb survivors have lived through anger, suffering and sorrow. We believe in a bright and hopeful future without nuclear weapons, and will live our life to the fullest."

At the ceremony, three volumes containing the names of 3,160 A-bomb victims confirmed dead in the 12 months through July 31 were added to a register. There are now 197 volumes and the total number of deaths of people related to the atomic bombing of Nagasaki rose to 192,310.

This year's ceremony saw a limited resumption of public attendance for the first time in three years, with about 1,600 people attending. In response to last month's fatal shooting of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, security at the ceremony site was tightened and uniformed police officers were deployed for the first time inside the large tent where dignitaries gather.
Former President Donald Trump has proved time and again that he is no student of history, despite citing the past with the regularity of a thunderstorm on a summer afternoon.

The latest example comes from The New Yorker, which has published an excerpt from Peter Baker and Susan Glasser's upcoming book, "The Divider: Trump in the White House, 2017-2021," focused on Trump's troubles with the military men in his administration whom he once referred to as "my generals."

At one point, according to the book, he complained to his chief of staff, John Kelly, a former Marine general, asking why he and others couldn't be "totally loyal" to him, like the "German generals in World War II."

"You do know that they tried to kill Hitler three times and almost pulled it off?" Kelly allegedly responded.

So were Adolf Hitler's generals yes men? Or did they really plot to assassinate him three times and get close once?

In total, there were at least 42 plots to assassinate Hitler, according to historian Roger Moorhouse in his book "Killing Hitler: The Plots, the Assassins, and the Dictator Who Cheated Death." Of those, at least 10 attempts involved German generals.

One of the earliest came in 1938, before World War II even began. A handful of generals led by Hans Oster conspired with government ministers and diplomats to overthrow Hitler, and kill him if necessary, believing he was about to thrust Germany into a massive war it could not win. The plot fell apart when British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain negotiated a peace treaty, heading off the immediate threat of war. Most of the generals involved quietly joined the German resistance; Oster was executed by the Nazis in 1945.

Gen. Hubert Lanz developed another plot in 1943. When Hitler arrived for a scheduled visit to the eastern front in Ukraine, Lanz and other officers planned to surround Hitler and his security with tanks and, if they resisted arrest, blow them to bits. Hitler ruined the plan by visiting a different spot than they had expected. Lanz was later convicted of war crimes at Nuremberg.

Maj. Gen. Henning von Tresckow organized a number of assassination attempts, including a bomb in a suitcase on Hitler's plane, which failed to detonate when it froze in the cargo hold, and a bomb timed to go off during Hitler's appearance at an armory, foiled when he raced through the building before the timer expired.

The best-known plot  probably the "almost pulled it off" to which Kelly was referring  was the 20 July Plot, sometimes erroneously called Operation Valkyrie, which was the name of the continuity-of-government plan that Tresckow and his conspirators wanted to use to take over after they killed Hitler. Col. Claus von Stauffenberg  played by Tom Cruise in the 2008 film "Valkyrie"  placed a bomb in a suitcase close to Hitler in a conference room at his Wolf's Lair retreat. Stauffenberg was driving away when he heard the bomb go off and presumed Hitler dead.

He wasn't. An aide had moved the briefcase before it blew up, and Hitler was protected from the blast by a table leg. Four others died, and many more were injured. If the plotters had hoped to decapitate the Nazis, the attempt had the opposite effect: Hitler's doctor recalled him saying over and over, "I am invulnerable. I am immortal," according to Moorhouse.

In the following days, Tresckow killed himself, Stauffenberg died by firing squad and thousands of alleged conspirators were rounded up, tortured and executed  including a raft of generals. Even Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, a national hero and talented commander, was caught up in the dragnet and forced to kill himself.

The next year, as the Allied forces closed in, Hitler  who had survived dozens of attempts on his life  died by suicide.

Historians are split on to what degree, if any, the generals plotting against him were motivated by a desire to stop Nazi atrocities such as the Holocaust. Many were aware of atrocities for years before they began to plot against Hitler and did nothing. Some may have been motivated more by the Nazis pushing aristocrats out of government than by high-minded ideals like democracy or human rights. Even the generals who wanted to kill Hitler to end the war planned to claim in their surrender terms much of the territory Germany had taken during the Nazi regime.

Like Trump, Kelly has previously been criticized for his questionable takes on history. In 2017, he told Fox News host Laura Ingraham that the Civil War was caused by "the lack of an ability to compromise" and that Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee was "an honorable man," views popular among the now-discredited "Lost Cause" hagiography to which many students in the 20th century were subjected.

Hitler's generals are, by and large, not held up as principled heroes or honorable men, not even the ones who plotted to kill him. They are remembered as the men who stood by while Hitler murdered millions.
From the Suwalki Gap to the Taiwan Strait, the U.S. military faces no shortage of potential crises. But perhaps its biggest challenge lies close to home: A dwindling number of Americans are able and willing to serve in uniform. To maintain the militarys edge, the Pentagon needs to rethink how it recruits and retains troops  while also preparing to fight future wars with a leaner active-duty force.

On current trends, the outlook is troubling. To meet its overall goal of an active-duty force of 1.3 million, the military needs to bring in roughly 150,000 new recruits across its six service branches. With two months left in the fiscal year, the Pentagon is still 15% short of that goal, with the largest service, the Army, facing the biggest shortfall. Through the end of June, the Army had signed up 22,000 troops, 60% below its annual target. It could end the year with as few as 445,000 troops, nearly 40,000 smaller than the force size authorized by Congress.

A tight labor market is one reason for this state of affairs, but the bigger problem is the shrinking pool recruiters are drawing from. Because of rising rates of youth obesity and drug use, the share of Americans aged 17 to 24 who are eligible to serve without a waiver has fallen to 23%. Discounting those already enrolled in college, the number is only 12%. The military estimates that among those who are eligible, a mere 9% have a propensity to serve, the lowest since 2007, during the height of the Iraq War.

To fill the gap, the Army is offering $35,000 bonuses to recruits willing to start basic training within 45 days and allowing enlistees to choose where theyre stationed. The service has also expanded short-term enlistment options, giving some new soldiers the option of two years of active duty rather than the standard four.

While boosting incentives to attract high-quality recruits makes sense, other proposals  such as relaxing physical fitness standards or making it easier for recruits to obtain waivers for prior drug use or medical conditions  risk undermining readiness and discipline. Creating a boot camp for applicants who perform poorly on the Armed Forces Qualification Test may help low-aptitude candidates meet the minimum threshold for service, but it threatens to degrade the militarys overall competence.

Rather than lowering its standards, the Pentagon can take a more pragmatic approach. Greater priority can be given to retaining troops once they enlist, as the Marines have done. Financial bonuses, faster promotion opportunities, and incentives for obtaining new skills would encourage troops to consider longer military careers. The Pentagon can also broaden its pool of potential enlistees by stationing more recruiters in communities with low levels of military participation.

Despite such efforts, the U.S. may well have to do more with less in the years ahead. Investments in unmanned weapons systems, artificial intelligence and higher-precision munitions have the potential to reduce manpower requirements. Greater collaboration with the private sector and smarter use of commercial technologies would allow the Pentagon to turn over more technical tasks, such as IT services, to civilian employees and contractors. The U.S. should also press regional allies, particularly its NATO partners in Europe, to contribute more to collective defense.

Combating the threats to global order requires an American military thats second to none. Keeping seasoned service members in uniform while harnessing the promise of new technologies can help the U.S. overcome its recruiting challenges without sacrificing the militarys core strengths.

Michael R. Bloomberg is the founder and majority owner of Bloomberg LP, the parent company of Bloomberg News, U.N. Special Envoy on Climate Ambition and Solutions, and chair of the Defense Innovation Board.
Chinas live-fire military exercises in the waters near Taiwan, which began Thursday, are a worrisome escalation from Beijing. The Peoples Liberation Army has gradually ramped up its warplane incursions into Taiwans air defense identification zone, airspace around the island over which Beijing claims authority, but China hasnt performed live-fire drills so close to Taiwanese shores in nearly three decades.

Comparisons to the last such incident, the Taiwan Strait Crisis of 1995 and 1996, have led this current story to be widely framed as a Washington-Beijing standoff: Will the United States now, as it did then, deploy a large naval contingent to stare down China on Taiwans behalf, including sailing an aircraft carrier and other warships through the strait?

It may seem sensible to simply repeat that reaction of 27 years ago, putting on a show of force in hopes of deterring Chinese military aggression against Taiwan and reiterating American dominance in the Indo-Pacific. But the situation surrounding these live-fire exercises is not the same as those nearly three decades ago, and a U.S. military response would be an escalatory mistake.

There are two key differences that should steer us away from military action. First is the immediate precipitating factor. In the mid-1990s, it was the decision of Taiwans then-President Lee Teng-hui to visit the U.S. This time, it was House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taiwan. To be clear, Pelosis trip is undoubtedly not the sole reason Beijing decided to do these exercises. Chinese military action in the area, most notably the frequent military flights around Taiwan, was already trending belligerent. And Beijing, of course, is responsible for its own choice to threaten Taiwans security and sanction Taiwans economy.

Still, the drills and economic measures are rightly understood to be retaliation for Pelosis presence, which the Chinese government vehemently decried. It seems safe to say this would not be happening, at least not right now, had she not recklessly gone to Taipei  and concurrently published a Washington Post op-ed, which concluded just shy of committing the United States to fight in defense of every democracy on Earth.

Pelosi is wholly correct in her essays critique of Chinas autocratic and genocidal government. But it doesnt follow from there that her choice to travel to Taipei was prudent as a matter of U.S. policy or for the safety and welfare of Taiwan itself. Her discussions with our Taiwanese partners  on reaffirming our support for the island and promoting our shared interests, including advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region, as she wrote in her op-ed, could have happened by phone, without giving Beijing an occasion to hike military tensions and expand its economic offensive against the Taiwanese.

This trip was all risk, no reward. In the immediate aftermath of Pelosis journey, Taiwan is at least a little bit less secure, and regional trade is less free and open. Adding U.S. military intervention to the mix would be a further escalation, one that could easily exacerbate the situation and would more deeply implicate the U.S. in a conflict in which we have no vital interests at stake.

That brings me to the second relevant difference: Todays China is not the China of 1995. It is far wealthier, more militarily powerful and clearly convinced that maintaining a regional sphere of influence is a core national interest. China eventually backed off in the last Taiwan Strait crisis. Can we be certain it would do the same today?

The U.S.-Chinese relationship inevitably will be rivalrous, given Beijings rising claim to great power status and the yawning gap between American values of individual liberty and dignity and Beijings authoritarian record. But it would be a grave mistake to make China our enemy  in fact, given the risk of nuclear conflict that open U.S.-China war entails, it is a matter of global survival to keep a communicative, pragmatic and, where possible, mutually beneficial relationship between the U.S. and China.

So while Taiwan  and other regional powers  may well wish to push back on Beijings intimidating maneuvers, Washington is courting disaster if it does the same. Pelosis visit was already an unwise step toward avoidable confrontation with Beijing. A U.S. military reaction to the live-fire exercises would only redouble her mistake.

Bonnie Kristian is a fellow at Defense Priorities, a foreign policy think tank. She is the author of Untrustworthy: The Knowledge Crisis Breaking Our Brains, Polluting Our Politics and Corrupting Christian Community.
INSHASA, Congo  U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday that his country will support the efforts led by Kenya and Angola to put an end to the violence in Congos east and to help solve the central African nations crisis with Rwanda.

Blinken traveled to Congos capital Kinshasa on Tuesday as part of his three-nation African tour. There, he met with Congo President Felix Tshisekedi and other government officials, including Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula who joined him at a press conference after meetings.

We want this violence in eastern Congo to end, Blinken said. We call on the M23 and all other armed groups to cease their actions, lay down their arms and come within the framework of the negotiation process.

Blinken is in Congo for two days and was expected to encourage solutions to the violence in eastern Congo where attacks have increased dramatically in the past month, with the resurgence of the M23 rebel group and ongoing violence by the many militia groups vying for control of the mineral-rich region.

More than 40 people were killed over the weekend in the Ituri province by two other rebel groups.

We are very concerned by credible reports that Rwanda has provided support to M23. We call on all parties in the region to stop any support or cooperation with M23 or, for that matter, any other non-state armed group. He said during a joint news conference with Lutundula.

Congo has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels. Rwanda, is rejecting a report by United Nations experts saying they have solid evidence that members of Rwandas armed forces are conducting operations in eastern Congo in support of the M23 rebel group.

Rwanda accuses Congo of collaborating with another rebel group, the FDLR, and said regional security cant be achieved until that issue is addressed. The FDLR was created by ethnic Hutus who fled Rwanda during the countrys 1994 genocide that killed at least 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus. Congo has denied supporting the group.

The violence in eastern Congo has killed dozens and displaced tens of thousands, worsening the already existed humanitarian crisis in the country.

Blinken will travel later Wednesday to Rwanda to meet with President Paul Kagame and his foreign minister.

The United States is doing everything it can to support the very important African-led mediation efforts, in particular the processes that are being led by Kenya and Angola, to bring peace, security and stability to the eastern Congo. We are not only following this very closely and carefully, were engaged in it, he said.

Relations between Congo and its smaller neighbor Rwanda have been fraught for decades. Rwanda alleges that Congo gave refuge to Hutus who carried out the genocide. In the late 1990s, Rwanda twice sent its forces deep into Congo, joining forces with Congolese rebel leader Laurent Kabila to depose the countrys longtime dictator Mobutu Sese Seko.

A meeting between Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi in Angola on July produced a statement calling for a return to normal diplomatic relations, a cessation of hostilities, and the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of the M23 from its positions in eastern Congo.

Let me simply add that all countries have to respect their neighbors territorial integrity. This is a proposition that we take very seriously around the world. We spent some time talking about that when it comes to Ukraine, its equally important here, Blinken said.

The U.S. Secretary of State will meet with government leaders and civil society groups over his two-day visit to discuss partnerships for regional security, food insecurity, human rights issues, environmental conservation, climate change and bilateral trade and investment.

Blinken announced that Congo has joined the Feed the Future program, which deals with the food crisis caused by climate change, COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine, and to work in partnership with countries around the world to invest in sustainable, resilient food production for the long term.

Another topic on the table was climate change and the conservation of whats considered the second most important forest in the world.

Congos government was criticized last month when it opened an auction to explore 30 blocks of oil and gas located in the Peatlands in the Congo Basin forest, the worlds largest tropical peatland.

The government of the Republic will ensure that there are no candidates, there are no companies that will come to us to exploit and kill the ecology, Congos foreign minister Lutundula said.

He also announced that both countries will create a working group on climate change that will be a framework for consultation and joint action. This also is a guarantee, it is a structure that will help us reconcile the need for the Congolese to enjoy its natural wealth and to protect the common heritage of humanity.
Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley assumed command Tuesday of U.S. military missions in Africa, where countering Chinas growing influence and keeping terrorist groups in check will be at the top of the agenda.

Langley replaced Gen. Stephen Townsend, who has led the Stuttgart, Germany-based U.S. Africa Command for the past three years.

I know I have a lot to do. We have a lot to do, Langley said during a ceremony at the commands Kelley Barracks headquarters. Im ready to embark on this mission.

Langleys promotion to lead AFRICOM also represents a momentous occasion for the Marine Corps, as he is the first Black four-star general in the services 246-year history.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who himself made history as the first Black leader to hold the top job at the Pentagon, officiated at the ceremony. He called Langley the best fit for the job as Africa is challenged by climate change, mass migration, Chinese and Russian interference, autocracy and terrorism.

Your extraordinary achievement reminds (Black troops) that they belong, Austin said, adding that the reminder applies to women and others not previously welcomed by the armed forces as well.

I could not be prouder to stand beside you in this historic moment, Austin continued.

Langley brings a wide range of experience commanding troops, including on the African continent. He led Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa in Stuttgart for about six months in 2020 and 2021 after his predecessor was removed over allegations of using a racial slur in front of junior Marines.

And before his AFRICOM post, he was in charge of all Marines based on the U.S. East Coast.

Mike is a selfless and humble man, Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, said at the ceremony. He accomplishes the mission without fanfare. He is what all commanders should be: decisive, able and a man of integrity.

Both Austin and Milley spoke to the importance of the AFRICOM mission, which seeks to provide stability, security and prosperity across a continent more than three times the size of the U.S.

There are 53 countries and 800 ethnic groups in Africa, where religious extremist groups have taken thousands of lives and democratic movements struggle with corrupt autocracies.

Today, Tunisias dream of self-government stands endangered, Austin said, noting that in other African nations, the military has pushed out civilian governments.

A military exists to protect the people, not the other way around, he said.

Austin also mentioned outsiders angling to interfere in Africa. He singled out China, which uses African infrastructure projects to seek a foothold for larger ambitions, and Russia.

He accused the Kremlin of peddling cheap weapons and mercenaries to Africa and spreading malign influence to undermine the international rules-based order and the rule of law.

Austin also praised Townsends work during his three-year AFRICOM command, which began with a heavy focus on counterterrorism operations in Somalia.

Townsend, who is retiring after a 40-year military career, echoed Milley and Austin on the strategic importance of the continent.

A few bucks goes a long way in Africa, Townsend said. I think America can afford it.

U.S. troops have served as advisers to Somalias fledgling military in its decadeslong fight against al-Shabab, a militant group aligned with al-Qaida.

A sharp increase in drone strikes against al-Shabab also was a major focus for AFRICOM at the outset of Townsends time in command.

However, the mission experienced an abrupt shift in late 2020, when former President Donald Trump ordered all U.S. troops out of Somalia.

And in subsequent months, airstrikes in the country came to a halt under President Joe Biden as the new administration reviewed the militarys approach in the country.

In May, however, amid concerns that al-Shabab was gaining ground, Biden ordered U.S. forces back into Somalia to serve as regular advisers.

Langleys ascension at AFRICOM coincides with a diplomatic tour of the continent by Secretary of State Antony Blinken as the U.S. seeks to demonstrate the seriousness of its commitment to ensuring security and cooperation in Africa.

Langley said during Tuesdays ceremony that he shared the moment with his father, who retired from the Air Force after it wanted to deploy him, a widower with four children under 12.

He chose to raise me, Langley said. When I look at my career, Im an extension of Master Sgt. Willie Langley. This ones for you, Dad.
HAVANA  A deadly fire that began at a large oil storage facility in western Cuba spread on Monday, threatening to plunge the island into a deeper energy crisis as it forced officials to shut down a key thermoelectric plant.

Flames around dawn enveloped a third tank that firefighters had tried to cool as they struggle to fight the massive blaze in the western province of Matanza that began just days after the government announced scheduled blackouts for the capital of Havana.

"I am very worried about the children, the elderly, the economy of Matanzas and the country," said Dailyn de la Caridad, a 28-year-old resident. "We don't know how this is going to end."

At least one person has died and 125 are injured, with another 14 reported missing ever since lighting struck one of the facility's eight tanks on Friday night. A second tank caught fire on Saturday, triggering several explosions at the facility, which plays a key part in Cuba's electric system.

"The risk we had announced happened, and the blaze of the second tank compromised the third one," said Matanzas Gov. Mario Sabines.

By late Monday, four tanks were compromised, Lt. Col. Chief Alexander Avalos of Cuba's fire department told Television Cubana.

"The fire has taken on a greater magnitude," he said.

Firefighters had sprayed water on the remaining tanks over the weekend to cool them but failed to stop the fire from spreading. On Monday afternoon, the government's power company announced that the fire had forced the shut down a thermoelectric plant that provides power to the island's western region after it ran out of water, according to the official Cubadebate website. No further details were immediately available.

The governments of Mexico and Venezuela have sent special teams to help extinguish the fire, with water cannons, planes and helicopters fighting the fire from several directions as military constructions specialists erected barriers to contain oil spills.

Local officials warned residents to use face masks or stay indoors given the billowing smoke enveloping the region that can be seen from the capital of Havana, located more than 65 miles (100 kilometers) away. Officials have warned that the cloud contains sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide and other poisonous substances.

The majority of those injured were treated for burns and smoke inhalation, and five of them remain in critical condition. A total of 24 remain hospitalized. Over the weekend, authorities found the body of one firefighter as relatives of those still missing gathered at a hotel to await news about their loved ones.

Sabines and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said it was impossible to search for the missing firefighters given the roiling temperatures.

The blaze at the Matanzas Supertanker Base in Matanzas city prompted officials to evacuate more than 4,900 people, most of them from the nearby Dubrocq neighborhood. The facility's eight huge tanks hold oil used to generate electricity, although it wasn't clear how much fuel has been lost as a result of the flames. The first tank that caught fire was at 50% capacity and contained nearly 883,000 cubic feet (25,000 cubic meters) of fuel. The second tank was full.

Jorge Pinon, director of the Latin America and Caribbean Energy Program at the University of Texas, said officials should inspect the walls of tanks that aren't on fire to ensure they weren't affected. He also warned that the government must be careful before bringing the system back online once the fire is extinguished.

"If not, there'll be another catastrophe," he said. "Unfortunately, this is going to take time."

Pinon noted that the facility receives Cuban crude oil  operating an oil pipeline that crosses the center of the country  to be transferred via small tankers to the thermoelectric plants that produce electricity. It is also the unloading and transshipment center for imported crude oil, fuel oil and diesel, with Cuba producing only half of the fuel required to keep its economy afloat.

The blaze comes as Cuba struggles through a deep economic crisis and faces frequent power outages amid a sweltering summer, issues that helped unleashed unprecedented antigovernment protests last year. Officials have not provided a preliminary estimate of damages.
PALEMBANG, Indonesia  When U.S. military commanders want to deploy long-range artillery to an austere airfield in the Indo-Pacific, they send in the Marines.

Twenty-five members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Units amphibious reconnaissance platoon arrived early Monday at an airfield rebuilt by the Japanese during World War II on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. Their mission: to practice seizing and holding the airfield.

The Okinawa-based Marines are participating in Super Garuda Shield, an exercise involving 2,000 American and 2,000 Indonesian troops. The largest installment yet of an exercise held annually for 16 years kicked off Aug. 1 and ends Sunday.

The Marines flew into Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport, Palembang, from Bandung, Java, on a C-130J Super Hercules flown by the Tokyo-based 36th Airlift Squadron, said platoon leader Capt. Josh Cuyler, 30, of Rochester, N.Y.

Super Garuda Shield scenarios involve Indonesian and U.S. troops working together. Theres an opposing force played by Indonesian personnel, Cuyler said hours after hitting the ground. In this instance, the airfield was uncontested.

We are used to long-range infiltrations with steep terrain and (carrying) weight so this one wasnt bad, Cuyler said. The Marines typically walk about four miles on operations and survive up to four days in the field without support, he said.

The Marines and their Indonesian counterparts set up five positions to secure the airfield, which is now Palembangs civilian airport. It still features a Japanese bunker near its control tower.

The Marines took cover in buildings and bushes near the runway and spent their time photographing aircraft movements and filing reports back to the 7th Infantry Division in Baturaja, also on Sumatra, Cuyler said.

The Marines and Indonesian troops mission was to pave the way for the arrival of a U.S. Army High Mobility Artillery Rocket System and an Indonesian CASESAR self-propelled howitzer by air Tuesday.

The Marines rehearsed the mission, which involves assessing the runway and potential firing positions, on Ie Jima, a small island off Okinawas coast, Cuyler said. The reconnaissance platoon includes three Marine joint terminal attack controllers who can guide aircraft landing at austere airfields, he said.

The platoon is known as Stingray 1, a tribute to Vietnam-era reconnaissance Marines of the same call sign who hunted the enemy in small teams that included forward observers and air controllers, Cuyler said.

They would seek and find the enemy and devastate battalions with just five guys, he said.

In their down time, the Marines at Palembang reminisced about the massive rat they saw on Singkep Island during an amphibious operation earlier in the exercise. Theyre all carrying antivenom in case they get bit by a Sumatran cobra, Cuyler said.

One of their local counterparts, Indonesian air force Lt. Col. Tri Wicaxsono, 41, of Java, leads a detachment of 25 airmen working with the Marines in Palembang.

This is a great experience, he said during a break in the action Monday. Not only can we share information but most importantly we become good friends.

Wicaxsono offered to share sauteed chicken with the Marines while telling them about a deer-hunting expedition on Sumatra that he abandoned after seeing a tiger paw print.

The Indonesian airman took part in the relief effort following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. He worked in Banda Aceh on Sumatra, where 60,000 were killed by the massive wave.

Wicaxsono deployed to the Congo as a United Nations peacekeeper in 2016 but this is the first time he has worked with the Marines, he said.
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan  The 374th Medical Group at this airlift hub in western Tokyo was locked down temporarily Tuesday due to a false alarm and reopened after about a half-hour under lockdown.

The base security forces at 9:11 a.m. issued a lockdown advisory affecting the base clinic and the base access gates until further notice through the Pacific Air Forces Emergency Notification System.

The lockdown was lifted by 9:27 a.m., a spokesman for the 374th Airlift Wing, Staff Sgt. Juan E. Torres Chardon, told Stars and Stripes by phone.

Torres described the incident as a false alarm but said further details were not immediately available.
Chinas top leadership has grown increasingly frustrated with a years-long failure to develop semiconductors that can replace U.S. circuitry, an embarrassment capped by a flurry of anti-graft probes into top industry officials and the $9 billion rescue of Tsinghua Unigroup.

Senior officials are angry at how tens of billions of dollars funneled into the industry over the past decade havent produced the sorts of breakthroughs that emerged from previous national-level scientific endeavors, according to people familiar with top government officials thinking. Washington, which has steadily ratcheted up restraints on China, has been able to strong-arm Beijing and successfully contain its technological ambitions, they said, asking not to be identified revealing sensitive deliberations.

The investigations have sent shockwaves through a semiconductor industry long accustomed to top-level support. Xi Jinpings government had allocated more than $100 billion to build up a domestic semiconductor sector so the country could break its dependence on the West. A key area of scrutiny is the National Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund  known within the industry as Big Fund  which had become Beijings primary vehicle for doling out capital to the countrys chipmakers.

The nations top anti-graft agency announced investigations into three more executives who helped manage the Big Funds assets on Tuesday, adding it was dispatching a team to the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. The same regulator was already investigating the minister, Xiao Yaqing  making him the most senior sitting cabinet member to face a disciplinary probe in almost four years.

If youre going to be putting tens of billions of dollars in an industry, regardless of whether its a high technology one or just like building trains and airports, youre going to have illicit dealings going on, said Jordan Schneider, a senior analyst at Rhodium Group and host of the China Talk podcast.

The government is investigating the head of the Big Fund, Ding Wenwu, who had once warned it was unrealistic to cut corners in developing chip technologies. Founded in 2014, the fund drew about $45 billion in capital and backed scores of companies, including Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. and Yangtze Memory Technologies Co. The fund operated mostly behind the scenes and kept investment standards away from public view, which some analysts said undercut accountability.

Beijings frustration comes as Washington is slapping ever-tighter restrictions on China, adding to potential vulnerability for the Communist Party. The U.S. is increasingly limiting the kind of chip-making equipment that American companies can export to Chinese customers, while enlisting allied countries so that key suppliers like the Netherlands ASML Holding and Japans Nikon Corp. join its technology blockade.

This year, various government agencies began reviewing contingency plans for strategically important industries, in the event of stricter U.S. sanctions, the people said. When senior officials examined the report on the chip sector last month, it became clear advances in the field may have been overstated and that many investments had failed to bear fruit, the people said.

That ran contrary to a long-held belief that Beijing need only throw enough money at the problem. Xi has repeatedly urged breakthroughs in key technologies as the world faces great changes not seen in a century. The effort took on urgency during the Trump administration, which launched sanctions that proved effective at crippling Chinese giants including Huawei Technologies Co. Mastering advanced chipmaking was regarded as the pinnacle of that initiative in China, which in 2020 accorded the same priority to that goal as developing the atomic bomb decades ago.

The State Council Information Office didnt respond to faxed inquiries. Unigroup representatives didnt respond to requests for comment.

Despite years of effort, China hasnt made much progress in narrowing  let alone closing  the gap with the West. Chip-making machinery is still dominated by Dutch firm ASML, despite the efforts of state science institutions and firms like Naura Technology Group Co. to design rival lithography machines. Japanese firms still control the supply of photoresists, a key chemical. Though tech giants such as Huawei drove intense research of local alternatives to U.S. hardware, the country still relies on imports to meet the majority of its $155 billion in annual chip needs.

Critics of Beijings top-down policies have pointed out the enormous inefficiency that can result from freely doling out subsidies. Local media have reported about companies with scant experience winning incentives or grants for pursuing research. Powerful local interests have chased government money by championing projects in hopes of securing subsidies and, at times, political prestige. About 15,700 new semiconductor companies registered from January to May 2021, three times the number from the same period the previous year, according to an analysis by the South China Morning Post.

China can point to some success. SMIC has made headway against foreign competitors  though industry experts say its advances may be overstated. The country also vastly increased memory chip capacity through Yangtze Memory and Changxin Memory Technologies Inc.

Local chipmakers have also been able to go public. The most recent is Shenzhen Longsys Electronics Co., a Big Fund-backed memory chipmaker, that fetched $365 million from IPO in Shenzhen last week.

Still, Beijings frustration began to boil over in late 2021, when the Biden administration showed few signs of letting up on his predecessors campaign against China, and it became evident Unigroup  the standard-bearer for state-backed semiconductor innovation  was beginning to fail.

The roster of investigations into chip industry figures now reads like a whos-who of Chinas semiconductor pantheon. And the dragnet is expected to widen as investigations proceed, the people said.

In November, authorities announced probes into two executives linked to an investment firm that managed capital for the Big Fund. Last month, Ding, the funds chief, was also revealed to be under scrutiny. Several more people have been implicated, including former Unigroup Chairman Zhao Weiguo and his co-president Diao Shijing.

In addition, graftbusters last month announced an investigation into Xiao, the minister. It wasnt clear that his probe was directly related to the investigation into the Big Fund.

Many of the chip-related investigations involve Tsinghua Unigroup, the Beijing-based giant Zhao led that was forced into a 60 billion yuan ($8.9 billion) takeover to get out from under a mountain of debt. It began unraveling in 2021 after Beijing tightened lending nationwide, forcing the company into court receivership. When bidders for the company emerged, Zhao called their proposed takeover a crime.

Its not known whether Dings investigation is related to Unigroup. The Big Fund was involved in several projects Zhao spearheaded, including Yangtze Memory and Shanghai-based mobile communication chip giant Unisoc, according to company registration information. Unigroup also became a minority shareholder of the Big Fund under Dings watch.

Probes of Zhao and Diao  a former MIIT official  were directly linked to alleged misconduct during their time at the chip giant, said another person, asking not to be named discussing a sensitive matter. Zhao and Ding didnt pick up calls seeking comment. The Big Fund wasnt immediately available for comment.

Zhao was among the more highly regarded executives in Chinas vast semiconductor arena. He made his name via several high-profile investments using state-backed capital, which expanded Unigroups reach into areas from mobile processors and memory to servers. His $23 billion bid for Micron Technology Inc. in 2015 was blocked by the U.S. government at the eleventh hour.

He went on to build the $30 billion Yangtze Memory in Wuhan, which now competes directly with Micron. But the 55-year-old was ousted after a consortium led by JAC Capital took over his company this year.

Schneider of Rhodium Group said this series of chip probes have been unusually aggressive, perhaps because the industry is so critical to Xis strategic ambitions. In the past, China would cut off funding if there were signs of serious troubles, but semiconductors are the foundation of a robust tech sector.

Xi talks about the industry as needing to provide the Chinese people with full self-reliance, he said.
A week ago, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., made her trip to Taiwan. The leadership in Taipei welcomed her vows of U.S. support for the self-governing island and its democracy, as Pelosi sought to burnish her foreign policy legacy in what may be the twilight of her political career. It was, after all, the most significant visit of a U.S. official to Taiwan in a quarter-century.

But the symbolism of the moment gave way to a fiery response from China. Beijing, which views Taiwan as an integral part of its territory, cast Pelosi's visit as a dangerous provocation and evidence that Washington is hollowing out its formal position on the island. The United States neither challenges nor endorses Beijing's claim to Taiwan, even as it has long maintained close but informal political, economic and military links with Taipei.

Pelosi's visit was followed by four days of scheduled Chinese live-fire naval exercises, ballistic missile launches and aircraft maneuvers over and around Taiwan. Chinese naval forces took up positions that effectively encircled Taiwan and simulated what analysts suggested could be a future naval blockade of the island. The drills were extended Monday by the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army, with Chinese state media announcing that the nation's forces would conduct "regular" exercises on the eastern side of the median line in the Taiwan Strait - the informal maritime boundary between the mainland and Taiwan.

Taiwanese officials counted more than 200 Chinese military aircraft and more than 50 warships in and around their territorial waters since Thursday. Beijing appears to be accelerating efforts to establish a new normal in its military posture around Taiwan.

"Meng Xiangqing, a professor at the PLA-affiliated National Defense University, told state broadcaster China Central Television in an interview published Sunday that the drills aimed to 'completely smash the so-called median line' and demonstrate China's ability to prevent foreign intervention in a conflict by blockading and controlling the Bashi Channel, an important waterway between the western Pacific Ocean and the South China Sea," my Washington Post colleagues reported.

Analysts view this as par for the course for Beijing. Under Chinese President Xi Jinping, Beijing has taken increasingly aggressive and assertive positions on many territorial disputes with its neighbors, from occupying rocky shoals in the South China Sea, to establishing an "air defense identification zone" over the Japanese-controlled Senkaku island chain it also claims, to stealthily seizing territory in the Himalayas along its rugged, contested border with India.

"Just as China changed the status quo around the Senkakus in 2012 and the Sino-Indian border in 2020, it seeks to now further change the status quo in its favor in the Taiwan Strait," noted Bonnie Glaser, a China expert at the German Marshall Fund.

This keeps with its growing clout on the world stage. "In 1995 China's defense budget was only twice the size of Taiwan's, even though China has around 60 times as many people. Today China spends more than 20 times as much as Taiwan on defense," explained the Economist, referring to the last time tensions over Taiwan were this intense. "By the Pentagon's own account, the PLA has achieved parity or surpassed America in the number of ships and submarines, surface-to-air missiles and cruise and ballistic missiles it can deploy."

Now, China has the capacity and capability to squeeze Taiwan in ways that the United States may have difficulty deterring. "Beijing's message is that Washington needs to stop boosting ties with Taiwan, and restore the diplomatic understanding that discouraged any House speaker from visiting for the past 25 years," reported Bloomberg News. "If not, China could start to restrict Taiwan's freedom to operate off its shores in the same way that it has restricted the island's ability to participate in global organizations since Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's election in 2016."

For Washington and Beijing, the aftermath of Pelosi's visit has been defined by a clash of talking points. Both U.S. and Taiwanese officials emphasize that there was nothing abnormal about the speaker's visit and that China is unilaterally choosing to escalate tensions. China, meanwhile, accused the United States of abandoning its long-standing ambiguity over recognition of Taiwan and infringing on Chinese sovereignty. It chose to freeze some tracks of dialogue and collaboration with the Biden administration, including discussions over climate action.

"The U.S. and China are seriously talking past each other. This is not just about Pelosi," tweeted Evan Feigenbaum, vice president for studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and a veteran U.S. diplomat. "The U.S. thinks this is about Chinese coercion. The Chinese think this is about a drift from 'one China' to 'one China, one Taiwan.' That disconnect will lead to a very unstable new baseline."

Elsewhere in Asia, politicians are taking note. During a speech delivered Monday to mark Singapore's National Day, Prime Minister Lee Hsien-Loong warned that "a storm is gathering" around his prosperous city state, in part because of spiking U.S.-China tensions. Relations between the two powers are "unlikely to improve anytime soon," Lee said. "Furthermore, miscalculations or mishaps can easily make things much worse."

In countries like Japan and Australia, Beijing's reaction to Pelosi's visit has only hardened attitudes about the threat posed by a Chinese navy that increasingly sees the Pacific as its backyard. "Whatever fears many had about Pelosi's trip, the dramatic missile launches and live-fire drills have created a negative outcome for Beijing, by galvanizing an increasingly united chorus of critics," wrote Demetri Sevastopulo in the Financial Times.

For Taiwan, the die seems to have been cast. A few decades ago, a considerable proportion of the island's population looked favorably upon the prospect of reunification with China, excited not least by the economic promise of a closer embrace with the booming mainland. But most are convinced now that their future lies on a different, democratic path, with only six percent of Taiwanese recently surveyed supporting unification with China.

Xi has pinned his legacy in part on his ability to bring about reunification, ideally through peaceful means. But hard power may be the sole path toward achieving it. "The attractiveness of the carrots in China's Taiwan policy - economic inducements - has now fallen to its lowest point since the end of the Cold War," Wu Jieh-min, a political scientist at Taiwanese research academy Academia Sinica, said to the New York Times. "The card it holds presently is to raise military threats toward Taiwan step by step, and to continue military preparations for the use of force until, one day, a full-scale military offensive on Taiwan becomes a favorable option."
BEIJING  The top South Korean and Chinese diplomats pledged Tuesday to develop closer relations and maintain stable industrial supply chains at a time of deepening rivalry between Beijing and Washington.

South Korea, a longtime U.S. ally, is struggling to strike a balance between Washington and the increasingly assertive foreign policy of Chinese President Xi Jinping's government. U.S.-Chinese conflict over Taiwan has added to complications for governments that want amicable ties with both sides.

Foreign Ministers Park Jin and Wang Yi, in separate statements from their meeting in the eastern Chinese city of Qingdao, called for the development of relations based on three decades of successful commercial ties.

Park's ministry said the countries agreed to increase high-level communication over supply chain issues, climate change cooperation and facilitating cultural exchanges. It said the countries agreed to pursue "two-plus-two" talks by vice ministerial-level officials of foreign affairs and defense within this year.

Park and Wang gave no indication they discussed tensions over last week's visit by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to self-ruled Taiwan, which the mainland's ruling Communist Party claims is Chinese territory. Beijing reacted to her visit by conducting military drills to intimidate the island and called off dialogue with Washington on climate change and other issues.

Pelosi visited South Korea last week, but South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was on vacation, talked to her by phone instead of face to face. His critics accused him of avoiding seeing her to protect relations with China.

Yoon, who took office in May, wants to strengthen security cooperation with Washington and Japan in response to North Korean nuclear threats. China, North Korea's main ally, sees Japan as a strategic rival but also is South Korea's biggest export market.

South Korea's pursuit of closer ties with Washington could possibly complicate relations with China. South Korea is weighing whether to participate in a U.S.-led semiconductor alliance involving Taiwan and Japan, which China sees as an economic threat.

Yoon's stated desire to install more U.S. anti-missile systems to cope with growing North Korean threats is also concerning for China, which insists such systems could be reconfigured to peep into its territory.

China's state-run Xinhua news agency said Wang and Park had an "in-depth exchange of views" over South Korea's deployment of the U.S. Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense system, or THAAD, and both expressed hope that the issue wouldn't become a "stumbling block" in relations.

Bilateral ties took a significant hit when South Korea installed its first THAAD battery in 2017 as Beijing retaliated by suspending Chinese group tours to South Korea and obliterating the China business of South Korean supermarket giant Lotte, which had provided land for the missile system. Yoon during his presidential campaign has called for additional deployment of THAAD to better protect capital Seoul from North Korean missile threats.

Park and Wang called for maintaining stable industry supply chains, a possible reference to fears that Chinese technology policy and U.S. security controls might split the world into separate markets with incompatible standards and products, slowing innovation and raising costs.

Park expressed hope the two sides will increase cooperation based on "universal values and standards." He said they should overcome new challenges posed by a "great transition in international society" but gave no details.

Park appealed to Beijing to help persuade North Korea to return to talks on its nuclear weapons program, which he called an "unprecedented threat" to peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Park stressed that the U.N.-led international community should respond to major North Korean provocations with stern and unified measures and urged closer consultation between Seoul and Beijing over the North's accelerating efforts to expand its arsenal, according to his ministry.

China and Russia recently vetoed U.S.-sponsored resolutions at the U.N. Security Council that would have increased sanctions on the North over some of its ballistic missile testing this year, underscoring division between the council's permanent members that deepened over Russia's war on Ukraine.

Wang's statement didn't mention the nuclear issue and gave no indication whether he said what Beijing might do. The South Korean Foreign Ministry said Wang told Park that China will continue to make possible efforts for peace in the Korean Peninsula.

Park also expressed hope that Xi, the Chinese leader, would visit South Korea.
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan  The Marine Corps air wing in the Indo-Pacific adopted a new ceremonial call sign Monday, the 80th anniversary of one of its most significant trials, the Battle of Guadalcanal.

The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing  the aviation component of III Marine Expeditionary Force  changed its on-air identifier from Ice pack to Cactus, a callback to the Cactus Air Force that operated from Henderson Field during the six-month World War II fight on Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands.

Wing commander Maj. Gen. Brian Cavanaugh signed the proclamation changing the call sign, according to a post on the wings official Facebook page Monday. The wing is headquartered at Camp Foster, Okinawa, and its component groups and squadrons are positioned at Marine Corps Air Stations Futenma and Iwakuni.

Cavanaugh recalled the historic tie that connects the wing to Guadalcanal and its mission today.

That is why we honor the Marines of the Cactus Air Force and remember their ingenuity in the face of overwhelming odds with each use of the call sign Cactus, said Cavanaughs post.

The Cactus call sign is for symbolic or ceremonial use, wing spokesman Maj. Roberto Martins told Stars and Stripes in an email. The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing was a year-old organization at the time of Guadalcanal, according to Cavanaugh.

Changing the MAW's call sign to Cactus was a decision grounded in both celebrating the 80th anniversary of Guadalcanal and recognizing the unit's significant contribution to that battle, Martins said Monday.

The Allies used cactus as the codename for Guadalcanal, part of the island chain northeast of Australia, to prevent the Japanese from identifying where the U.S. would mount its first major amphibious landing of the war, according to the Naval History and Heritage Command and National WWII Museum websites.

The Allied invasion targeted Henderson Field, from which Marine, Navy and Army Air Forces aircraft, the Cactus Air Force, operated after the field was secured Aug. 7, 1942, according to the History and Heritage Command.

Henderson was a strategic airfield from which the U.S. stopped the Japanese from severing supply routes to Australia and New Zealand. The invasion ignited a ferocious struggle marked by seven major naval battles, numerous clashes ashore, and almost continuous air combat, according to the World War II museum.

Today, the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing supports III MEF with offensive air support, anti-air support and aerial reconnaissance, including active and passive electronic countermeasures and control of aircraft and missiles, according to its website.

Although there's debate amongst historians on the origins of aviation call signs, they still hold a purposeful and traditional value, Martins said. Tying our significant achievements of the past to how we operate now and into the future, inspires us to move forward with the same perseverance, dedication to duty, and ingenuity that have marked our rich history.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's swing through Asia aimed to convey the U.S.'s "strong and unshakable" support for the region. It ended up leaving many countries in stunned silence as China conducted unprecedented military drills around Taiwan.

The shockwaves from the highest-level U.S. visit to Taiwan in a quarter century are still reverberating around the region days after she flew back to Washington. China's military has extended exercises designed to show an ability to encircle the island and cut off the Taiwan Strait, one of the world's busiest trade routes, days after launching missiles that likely flew over Taipei and into waters Japan claims as an exclusive economic zone.

On its own, such a display would normally generate widespread condemnation of China. But many governments also saw Pelosi's visit as a step too far  and they don't want to get caught in the middle.

While longtime allies Japan and Australia joined the U.S. in criticizing China's response, other security partners in the region stayed quiet. South Korea's leader snubbed Pelosi after the visit, India hasn't said a word and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations rushed to reaffirm that they only recognize One China  a basic framework that Beijing requires for diplomatic relations, although interpretations vary across nations.

"Most Southeast Asian countries will view the United States as having provoked China's entirely predictable overreaction," said Shahriman Lockman, a director at the Institute of Strategic and International Studies in Malaysia. "The lesson for ASEAN members here is that you will have to continuously hedge your bets. There is no telling whose actions might precipitate the next crisis in U.S.-China relations."

Since taking office, President Joe Biden has sought to build a broad coalition in Asia to push back against Chinese overreach, in part by telling smaller economies they don't need to pick sides. That marked a stark contrast with the Trump administration, which pressured countries in the region to ban Chinese telecoms giant Huawei Technologies Co. and take other steps that would effectively force them to choose between the world's biggest economies.

The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, unveiled by Biden during a visit to South Korea in May, was emblematic of the approach. While the IPEF launch excluded China, the U.S. managed to sign up seven Southeast Asian countries as well as Fiji by insisting it was open to Beijing and leaving out Taiwan, even as the administration began parallel trade discussions with the island's government.

Those talks, while short of a full-fledged trade agreement sought by many in the region, signaled a more robust U.S. leadership presence in Asia to counter China in a way that was palatable to nations that need strong trade ties with Beijing to boost their economies. They also complemented other U.S. initiatives to counter China, including introducing an alternative to President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road investments, as well as a push for stronger ties on trade, public health and cybersecurity.

Yet all of a sudden, after months of trying to make it comfortable for countries to align with the U.S., Pelosi's visit forced Asia to take a stand on China's most sensitive issue of all. And many governments just put their heads down.

ASEAN put out a statement urging "maximum restraint" and reaffirming its support for a "One-China Policy," with Cambodian Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn  whose country is currently chairing the group  indicating that Pelosi was to blame for triggering the tensions. Malaysia's special envoy to China condemned Pelosi for "fanning the fires of antagonism" in a statement backing Beijing, although the country's foreign minister later said it wasn't official government policy.

Over the weekend, Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan warned that rising tensions between the U.S. and China presented a "dangerous, dangerous moment for the world," adding: "I know you have to compete, maybe even confront, but we all have skin in this game."

ASEAN's statement "is quite telling actually of the alarm in Southeast Asia about their own economic well-being being disrupted by a flashpoint developing in the Taiwan Strait," said Alexander Neill, a Singapore-based adviser on geopolitical risk who previously worked for the U.S. and U.K. governments. He said the number of countries referencing their One China policies was "a sort of litmus test for Beijing's burgeoning influence across the region."

While the White House hasn't openly endorsed Pelosi's trip, it has defended her right to visit Taiwan as consistent with years of American policy. The Biden administration has repeatedly said that Congress is an independent branch of government, and the president had no power to tell her to call off the trip. Pelosi herself said the visit was meant to show U.S. support for the island democracy, insisting that China "cannot prevent world leaders or anyone from traveling to Taiwan."

In a sign of how both the U.S. and China sought to shape the narrative over the visit, both sides cited ASEAN's statement as affirmation of their position. When asked about the region's response, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said "the total disproportion" between Pelosi's visit and China's drills was "very clear to countries throughout the region."

Several days later, China's Foreign Ministry counted Asean among what it said were 170 countries that "have voiced staunch support for China on the Taiwan question through various means."

"They form an overwhelming majority versus the U.S. and its few followers," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters on Monday.

Some of the most telling reactions came from U.S. partners in the region.

In South Asia, as countries including Bangladesh and Sri Lanka affirmed their support for the One China policy, India kept mum on the issue. Although India is a member of the Quad grouping with the U.S., Japan and Australia, its official silence shows the limits of how far it's ready to veer into the American orbit as it looks to manage its relationship with China.

"Not having a response is also kind of a response," said Sana Hashmi, post-doctoral fellow at the Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation. "There is a feeling that India is shying away from taking a stand."

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol ended up in the most difficult position, avoiding Pelosi altogether after she flew from Taiwan to Seoul ostensibly due to a previously scheduled holiday. South Korea's foreign minister is paying an official visit to China this week, shortly after Beijing scrapped a meeting with Japan's top diplomat after the nation joined the Group of Seven in expressing concern about the military drills around Taiwan.

While Pelosi's visit helped show the U.S. commitment to the region, it also put South Korea in an awkward position and highlighted general confusion over American policy toward China, according to Seong-hyon Lee, a visiting scholar at Harvard University's Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies. He cited recent U.S. moves such as declaring "genocide" against mostly Muslim Uyghurs in the far west region of Xinjiang, even as America still wants to do business with China.

"What the U.S. lacks is coherence and clarity in its China policy," Lee said. "It makes allies scratch their heads."

Bloomberg's Sudhi Ranjan Sen contributed to this report.
BUCHA, Ukraine  After months of meticulous, painful and at times gruesome investigation, officials in Bucha said Monday that they had reached what may be the closest they will get to a final accounting of victims of alleged atrocities by Russian troops that set off worldwide outrage: 458 bodies, of which 419 bore markings they had been shot, tortured or bludgeoned to death.

Mykhailyna Skoryk-Shkarivska, the towns deputy mayor, recounted that grim tally at a news conference Monday, where she said the details of each case were now being investigated by prosecutors working to identify the perpetrators and ultimately try them for war crimes.

Of the victims, 39 appeared to have died of natural causes, Skoryk-Shkarivska said, but those may have been related to the war or to the Russians treatment of the civilian population during their month-long occupation, which ended with a hasty retreat on April 1.

Even those 39 cases are now being scrutinized by war crimes investigators. They include a seemingly healthy 34-year old mother who died of a heart attack while sheltering from bombardments in a basement with her three young children, who remained trapped alongside their dead mother for days, and an elderly woman living alone with her sister who died shortly after her sister was shot by Russian troops - deaths that hardly could be considered natural.

That it has taken more than four months to account for 32 days worth of killing underscores the horrific circumstances officials encountered when the Russians troops left. Bodies were strewn unattended around the streets, stuffed into wells or abandoned deep in the forest. Electricity and internet service had been cut, meaning the earliest documented evidence had to be written by hand, Skoryk-Shkarivska said.

Identifying all of the bodies proved impossible. Some 50 corpses remain unidentified or unclaimed by relatives, Skoryk-Shkarivska said, adding that city officials nonetheless decided to announce their findings because the final tally, and complete identities, probably will never be known. Just in the past two weeks, two more bodies were discovered, in a forest and a storm drain, and 10 residents have reported missing relatives who cannot be accounted for.

The final figure also includes one bag of body parts. The remains were too fragmented, decomposed or badly mutilated to be identified but apparently belonged to multiple people, Skoryk-Shkarivska said, perhaps including some Russian soldiers. Among the pieces are two right arms that investigators say they have reason to suspect belonged to Russians.

The Russian troops left the corpses of many of those they killed to rot unattended but also burned some, possibly out of hygiene concerns or to hide evidence of torture, the deputy mayor said. Some of the remains consisted of piles of ashes beyond identification even using DNA analysis.

Nearly all of the bodies included in Mondays tally are known to have been civilians, Skoryk-Shkarivska said. The bodies of Ukrainian soldiers killed in Bucha were turned over to Ukrainian authorities and counted separately, while three Russian bodies were sent for repatriation.

A total of 366 of the bodies were male, and 86 were female, while five had deteriorated too badly to determine. Nine were children under age 18.

The stark numbers offer only a hint of the horrors inflicted on the small number of people who remained behind after the Russians swept into the Kyiv suburb on Feb. 27, intent on reaching the capital 20 miles away. Instead, they found their advance blunted by Ukrainian resistance.

Most of the towns estimated 39,000 population escaped before the Russians arrived, but some 4,000 remained  1 in 10 of whom died in just over a month.

If such numbers are being repeated in only a fraction of the towns and villages under Russian occupation  amounting to 20% of Ukrainian territory  the full scale of atrocities committed by Russian troops could be vast.

Bucha, however, experienced by far some of the worst of the violence among the dozens of towns and settlements briefly occupied by Russian troops in the Kyiv region, accounting for a third of the estimated total of 1,300 victims.

Many of those who stayed in Bucha when the Russians invaded were elderly, refusing to flee, because they were too frail, sick or stubborn to leave their homes, said Andriy Halavin, the priest of the towns church.

He helped bury 116 people killed in the first two weeks of the Russian occupation in a mass grave dug by residents in the yard of his church, and he recognized some of his congregants. But others may have relatives who live far away and were unable to provide DNA samples to help investigators.

Records compiled by the investigators indicate that many of those unidentified were also elderly, said Eugene Spirin, one of the volunteers who helped collect and identify the dead. He shared a list documenting some of those that proved hardest to identify, accompanied by brief descriptions of what investigators were able to establish about who they were.

There is the man, about 60 years old, shot in the eye, his face barely recognizable, and another age 75 to 85 with stubby gray hair who was shot in the back of the head. One elderly womans head was so badly smashed it could not be recognized. Investigators assessed that she was 75 to 85, according to the records.

Skoryk-Shkarivska said the effort to identify these victims will continue. The city is determined to put names to all those who died and memorialize them with a monument. But if final answers dont come soon, the city said, it plans to hold burial services for the last remaining victims who died lonely, nameless deaths.
MOSCOW  A Russian rocket on Tuesday successfully launched an Iranian satellite into orbit.

The Soyuz rocket lifted off as scheduled at 8:52 a.m. Moscow time (0552 GMT) Tuesday from the Russia-leased Baikonur launch facility in Kazakhstan.

About nine minutes after the launch, it placed the Iranian satellite called Khayyam into orbit. It's named after Omar Khayyam, a Persian scientist who lived in the 11th and 12th centuries.

Iran has said the satellite fitted with high-resolution camera will be used for environmental monitoring and will remain fully under its control.

Tehran said no other country will have access to information it gathers and it would be used for civilian purposes only, but there have been allegations that Russia may use it for surveillance of Ukraine amid its military action there.

If it operates successfully, the satellite would give Iran the ability to monitor its archenemy Israel and other countries in the Middle East.

Yuri Borisov, head of Russia's state space corporation Roscosmos, hailed the launch as an "important landmark" in cooperation between Moscow and Tehran.

Iranian state television aired footage of the launch live, noting that the country's telecommunications minister attended the liftoff in Kazakhstan. Tehran said the satellite will help improve productivity in the agriculture sector, survey water resources, manage natural disasters, confront deforestation and monitor border areas.

Citing Iran's civilian space agency, state television said the satellite would provide high-resolution surveillance images with a one-meter-per-pixel definition. Western civilian satellites offer around half-a-meter per pixel, while U.S. spy satellites are believed to have even-greater definition.

Iran has both a civilian and military space program, which the U.S. fears could be used to advance its ballistic missile program. However, Iran has seen a series of mishaps and failed satellite launches over recent years.
A merchant ship under U.S. sanctions passed Turkeys Bosphorus Strait on its way from Syria to Russia late last month. European intelligence officials who tracked the Sparta II say it carried military vehicles to bolster President Vladimir Putins war in Ukraine.

The ships journey to the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk underlines the Kremlins efforts to tap resources for the invasion thats now in its sixth month, as supply lines strain under the pressure of Europes largest military campaign since World War II.

While Ukraine has received billions of dollars of weapons from the U.S. and Europe to help defend itself, Russia must rely on its own resources to support front-line forces amid reports of extensive losses. Tens of thousands of Russian troops have been killed or wounded and thousands of armored vehicles destroyed, according to U.S. estimates.

An official familiar with the matter said the U.S. government believed Russia has been using merchant vessels to move military cargo to the Black Sea, echoing the European intelligence reports. The official asked not to be identified discussing confidential matters.

The Sparta II almost certainly brought military vehicles from Syrias Tartus port thats used by Russia, according to the intelligence officials and July 17-25 satellite imagery seen by Bloomberg. They said the exact nature of the vehicles was unclear. The ship was seen in Syria with vehicles in its hold, spotted crossing the Bosphorus Strait and later identified in Novorossiysk with at least 11 vehicles it was likely offloading.

Maritime tracking data show the ship owned by a company the U.S. sanctioned in May thats controlled by the Russian Defense Ministry made the journey on those dates, apparently unhindered by NATO member Turkey.

Ankara invoked the Montreux Convention to close the strait to warships soon after Putins Feb. 24 invasion, though commercial shipping can pass through. Russia used cargo ships from the company, Oboronlogistika OOO, on the same route on other occasions this year, according to the people. It has ferried military cargo multiple times from Russia to Syria in the past.

A U.S. State Department spokesperson referred queries on the matter to the Turkish government. A Turkish official familiar with the issue said a merchant ship would only be examined if there was a tipoff or suspicion of wrongdoing. A White House spokesperson declined to comment on whether the U.S. has spoken with Turkish officials about the situation. The Kremlin and Oboronlogistika didnt immediately respond to requests to comment.

To be sure, Russia built up massive stockpiles of armaments during a decade-long modernization program overseen by Putin, and Kremlin officials deny any resupply problems. Still, U.S. and European officials say the loss of large numbers of tanks and armored personnel carriers is forcing Moscow to dip into stocks of older equipment, including decades-old T-62 tanks.

Like Russia, Ukraine hasnt disclosed the scale of its military losses though it has faced logistical challenges against a much larger foe, particularly earlier in the war. President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a July 22 interview with the Wall Street Journal that battlefield casualties had fallen to about 30 per day from a high of 100-200 daily in May-June, a number that has not been independently verified.

Putin has had troops in Syria since ordering a 2015 operation to shore up its embattled President Bashar Assad. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu in 2017 said the military tested more than 160 types of advanced weaponry there including fighter jets, laser-guided missiles, tanks, electronic warfare methods and air-defense systems.

There are indications the Kremlin has looked elsewhere for additional resources, too.

Tensions have flared between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region in recent weeks amid reports denied by Moscow that Russia has thinned out a peacekeeping force of up to 2,000 troops to send to Ukraine. The U.S. in March said Russia had diverted some troops to Ukraine from Georgias breakaway region of South Ossetia, where its kept thousands of soldiers since fighting a 2008 war.

Russia is turning to Iran to try to buy armed drones, CIA Director William Burns told a U.S. security forum last month, saying it indicated the deficiencies of Russias defense industry today, and the difficulties theyre having after significant losses.

North Korea may become an unlikely new source of artillery as it has systems of a decent quality and last month recognized the Kremlin-controlled Donetsk and Luhansk peoples republics in eastern Ukraine as independent, according to one person with knowledge of Russian defense policy, asking not be identified discussing sensitive issues.

Russian shipments from Syria are likely feeding into its overall logistics as Novorossiysk is used to resupply bases in neighboring Crimea that Putin annexed in 2014, and from there to occupied Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in southern Ukraine, one of the European intelligence officials said. Russia has recently redeployed forces and equipment to the area as Ukraine threatens a counteroffensive in the Kherson region.

Russia moved a significant number of troops to Crimea in preparation for deployment in southern Ukraine and at least eight battalion tactical groups that comprise 800 to 1,000 soldiers were moved from the eastern Donbas region, adding to pressure on its logistical supply routes, the person said.

Rather than a large-scale offensive, Ukraine may be seeking to lure Russian forces to the Kherson area where theyll be more vulnerable to attack, Phillips OBrien, professor of strategic studies at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, said Aug. 7 on Twitter. Moreover, the supply issue for the Russians is far trickier with rivers where bridges can be severed and only a few heavy rail lines, he said.

The Pentagon says it has supplied $9.1 billion in defense assistance to Ukraine since February, including $1 billion announced Monday to boost supplies of long-range artillery munitions, anti-tank weapons and medical vehicles. The government in Kyiv has also received billions more in weapons from the UK and other North Atlantic Treaty Organization allies.

Ukrainian forces using U.S.-supplied HIMARS long-range artillery recently have targeted Russian supply lines and ammunition stores behind the front with increasing effectiveness, as well as key infrastructure.

Western arms shipments are allowing Ukraine to strike bridges, which is complicating logistics and supplies, said Igor Korotchenko, head of the Moscow-based Center for Analysis of World Arms Trade. Still, artillery and attack aircraft are the key weapons in our current offensive and we dont have any shortages of either.

As many as 80,000 Russian troops have been killed or wounded in the war, U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for policy Colin Kahl said Monday at a regular Pentagon briefing. The U.S. assessment was also that Russia had used up a significant percentage of its precision-guided munitions including air- and sea-launched missiles and lost as many as 4,000 tanks and other armored vehicles, he said.

A lot of that is because of the anti-armor systems like Javelin, like the AT4, but also frankly because of the creativity and ingenuity in the way the Ukrainians have used those systems, he said.

Putin hasnt sought to bolster his military by ordering a mass mobilization, likely because that would risk forcing the Russian public to confront the costs of a war hes kept at arms length from them so far. But regional officials have offered cash incentives to encourage people to volunteer on short-term contracts, while the lower house of parliament in May abolished an upper age limit for army service.

The Russian government also moved last month to boost arms production by seeking powers to ease labor regulations in defense companies, citing the short-term increased need to repair weapons and military equipment.

Russian military systems lean on microelectronics components designed and produced in the U.S., Europe and east Asia, according to a new report from the Royal United Services Institute in London, based on an examination of the remains of equipment used in Ukraine.

Even as it seeks to shore up its army on the battlefield, Russian gains in the east of Ukraine have continued to be extremely limited and slow in recent days, according to the intelligence officials.

Vasily Kashin, a Russian military expert at Moscows Higher School of Economics, said nations shouldnt underestimate Russias resources. But he said importing weapons might still be worthwhile, noting North Korea has long-range multi-launch rocket systems that are more powerful than those that Russia has.

Of course Russia has some problems on the battlefield, but we see no proof that it imports any weapons for its war against Ukraine he said. However, it might be worth doing.

Bloombergs Courtney McBride, Anthony Capaccio and Roxana Tiron contributed to this report.
After explosions rocked a Russian air base Tuesday in occupied Crimea, Ukrainian government officials warned the blasts were "just the beginning" and vowed to liberate the territory, which Moscow annexed in 2014.

It was not immediately clear who was responsible for the blasts on the west coast of the peninsula, in an area of beach resorts. An aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky distanced Kyiv from the attack. A U.S. official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue, said it appeared Ukrainian forces had carried out a strike using a weapon not provided by the United States. U.S. officials referred additional questions about the operation to Ukraine.

The attack, if conducted by Ukraine, would amount to a dramatic escalation in the nearly six-month-old war. It would demonstrate a remarkable ability by Ukrainian forces, or their allies, to strike at Russia far from front lines, deep inside territory where Russian tourists are so comfortable with their security that they lounge near the base on sandy Black Sea beaches.

In numerous posts on social media, thick plumes of gray smoke could be seen rising over the base. Witnesses said they heard at least 12 explosions, Reuters reported, around 3:20 p.m. near Novofedorivka, Crimea. Moscow used the Black Sea territory, which borders Ukraine's Kherson region, to launch forces into Ukraine in February.

Ukraine did not claim responsibility for the attack, although some remarks by top officials appeared to skirt that line.

"Today, there is a lot of attention on the topic of Crimea. And rightly so," Zelensky said in his nightly address. "Crimea is Ukrainian, and we will never give it up."

In a statements posted on social media, seemingly meant to needle Moscow, Ukraine's Defense Ministry said it "cannot establish the cause of the fire" but reminded the Russian side of the dangers of "smoking in unspecified places."

In another post, the Ukrainians seemed to troll the Russians further: "The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine would like to remind everyone that the presence of occupying troops on the territory of Ukrainian Crimea is not compatible with the high tourist season."

The Crimean Peninsula should be "the pearl of the Black Sea, a national park with unique nature," not "a military base for terrorists," Mykhailo Podolyak, a Ukrainian presidential adviser, wrote on Twitter. "It is just the beginning," he wrote, appearing to reference Tuesday's blasts.

In an interview with Dozhd, an independent Russian online broadcaster, Podolyak did not claim responsibility, saying anti-Russia partisans might have carried out the attack.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk wrote: "Today's explosions in Novofedorivka are another reminder of who Crimea belongs to. Because it is Ukraine."

In a statement, Russia's Defense Ministry said munitions had been detonated at a storage site at the Saky airfield  and that the explosions were not the result of weapons that had been aimed at the depot.

Russian-backed Crimean leader Sergei Aksyonov soon warned that it was "too early to talk about the victims." But within an hour of the explosions, Aksyonov said that one person had died.

Russian state media outlets reported that several people had been injured  including four cut by glass fragments and a fifth hospitalized for a chest wound. A child was among those injured, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti reported.

In a post on Telegram, Aksyonov said that the situation was "localized and under control" and that there was no general evacuation in the region.

About 30 people were evacuated from houses in Novofedorivka, to nearby boardinghouses and hotels, RIA reported.

A "high ('yellow') level of terrorist threat" alert would be in place between Tuesday and Aug. 24 in some areas, including some urban districts and government facilities, Aksyonov wrote.

---

The Washington Post's Isabelle Khurshudyan and David Stern in Kyiv contributed to this report.
TEL AVIV, Israel  Close to one-third of the Palestinians who died in the latest outbreak of violence between Israel and Gaza militants may have been killed by errant rockets fired by the Palestinian side, according to an Israeli military assessment that appears consistent with independent reporting by The Associated Press.

The Israeli military said 47 Palestinians were killed in the weekend of fighting  at least 14 of them by Islamic Jihad-fired rockets that fell short.

No one in Gaza with direct knowledge of the explosions in question was willing to speak about them publicly. But live TV footage showed militant rockets falling short in densely packed residential neighborhoods. And AP visits to the sites of two explosions that killed a total of 12 people lent support to suspicions they were caused by rockets that went off course.

Israel is claiming victory in the weekend clash, in part because it killed two senior Islamic Jihad commanders and because no Israelis were killed or seriously wounded. If it turns out that Islamic Jihad harmed some of those it claims to protect, it would make for an even more humiliating outcome for the militant group and its main sponsor, Iran.

In Gaza, the ruling Hamas militant group heavily polices dissent, and many Palestinians view armed groups as freedom fighters defending their homeland in the face of Israeli aggression.

Israel said it targeted only militants and made every effort to spare civilians. But at least one strike, which killed a senior Islamic Jihad commander in the southern city of Rafah late Saturday, also killed five civilians as Israel flattened one home and heavily damaged others.

The violence began Friday, when Israel launched a wave of airstrikes against Islamic Jihad because of what the military described as an imminent threat to Israelis living near the Gaza frontier. By the time a cease-fire took effect late Sunday, Islamic Jihad had fired hundreds of rockets into Israel, and Israeli aircraft had struck dozens of suspected militant targets.

The Israeli army said militants fired about 1,100 rockets, with about 200 landing inside the Palestinian enclave.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said 46 Palestinians were killed in the three days of fighting, including 16 children and four women. It does not differentiate between civilians and militants.

Islamic Jihad said 12 of its fighters were killed, a smaller armed group said it lost a fighter, and Hamas said two Hamas-affiliated policemen who did not take part in the fighting were killed. Israel said it killed at least 20 militants and seven civilians.

Neither Hamas nor Islamic Jihad responded to Israel's claims that civilians were killed by misfired rockets. Instead, they have held Israel responsible for all the deaths.

Gaza-based human rights groups investigating the strikes also declined to address the claims. But their initial findings indicate that at least some of the explosions were questionable.

The Al-Mezan human rights group said some civilians were killed by "projectiles" rather than Israeli airstrikes. The Palestinian Center for Human Rights said it has so far confirmed that 27 people were killed by Israeli strikes  far below the overall toll.

PCHR director Raji Sourani said that the group has issued statements on only those incidents in which there was no ambiguity, and that the others will take more time to investigate because of "contradicting allegations." He did not elaborate.

"We need eyewitnesses, shrapnel, videos and evidence," he said. "There must be an investigation."

The suspicions are focused on three explosions in which at least 15 civilians were killed.

On Saturday night, seven Palestinians were killed in a blast in the crowded Jebaliya refugee camp in northern Gaza. The Israeli military said it carried out no operations in the area at the time. It released video footage purportedly showing a barrage of militant rockets, with one falling short.

Islamic Jihad had announced a rocket attack on the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon, just north of Jebaliya, at around the same time as the explosion.

Video footage of the aftermath circulated online, showing what appeared to be a rocket casing sticking out of the ground on a narrow, busy street. When the AP visited the site on Monday, the casing was gone and the hole had been filled in with dirt. Palestinians are usually keen to display evidence of Israeli airstrikes to international media.

Al-Mezan attributed the blast to a "projectile," and the PCHR said it was still investigating.

On Sunday night, an explosion killed five Palestinians ages 4 to 17 at a cemetery in Jebaliya, also around the same time Islamic Jihad announced a barrage of rockets. The Israeli military said it was investigating.

Visiting both sites in Jebaliya, the AP saw none of the telltale signs of an Israeli strike  the wide craters left by F-16s or the narrow holes caused by drone strikes.

In a third suspicious explosion, one of the Hamas-affiliated policemen, who was off-duty, was killed Sunday along with three of his young children in the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza. Hamas, a far more powerful militant group that has fought four wars with Israel, stayed out of the latest fighting, and Israel appears to have been careful not to target it.

Al-Mezan and the PCHR said they are still investigating that episode.

Krauss reported from Ottawa, Ontario. Associated Press writer Ilan Ben Zion in Jerusalem contributed to this report.
JERUSALEM  Israeli troops killed three Palestinian militants and wounded dozens in a shootout that erupted during an arrest raid in the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday.

The shootout came a day after a cease-fire ended three days of fighting between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group in the Gaza Strip.

In a separate incident in the West Bank city of Hebron, the Palestinian Health Ministry said a 17-year-old was killed by Israeli fire. The Israeli military said forces were responding with live fire, among other means, to a violent protest.

Israeli police said security forces encircled the home of Ibrahim al-Nabulsi, who they say was wanted for a string of shootings in the West Bank earlier this year. They confirmed that al-Nabulsi and another Palestinian militant were killed in a shootout at the scene, and that troops found arms and explosives in his home.

The Israeli military said that troops came under attack from Palestinians throwing rocks and explosives, and that soldiers responded with live fire. It confirmed Palestinians were shot, but did not elaborate on their condition.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said three people were killed  al-Nabulsi, Islam Sabouh and Hussein Jamal Taha  and at least 40 were wounded.

The armed wing of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbass Fatah party, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, later claimed the three as its members and vowed retaliation. The Fatah party said the organization mourns its martyred sons and said the three had sacrificed their lives in defense of our great people and their right to freedom and independence.

Israel has conducted near nightly arrest raids in the West Bank in recent months as part of a crackdown on Palestinian militant groups, foremost Islamic Jihad, in the aftermath of a string of deadly attacks targeting Israelis earlier this year that left 19 people dead. Dozens of Palestinians have been killed in clashes with Israeli troops during these arrest raids.

Last week, Israel arrested Bassam al-Saadi, a senior Islamic Jihad militant in the West Bank city of Jenin, during one of the nightly operations. The group said it was going on alert, and on Friday, Israel launched a series of strikes on Islamic Jihad targets in the Gaza Strip in what it said was a response to an imminent threat by the militant group.

During the three days of Gaza fighting, at least 46 Palestinians were killed, including 16 children and four women, and 311 were wounded, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. Twelve of those killed were Islamic Jihad militants, one was from a smaller armed group, and two were Hamas-affiliated policemen who were not taking part in the fighting, according to the armed factions.

Israel estimated that a total of 47 Palestinians were killed, including 14 killed by misfired Islamic Jihad rockets. It said 20 militants and seven civilians died in Israeli airstrikes and that it was still investigating six deaths.

Israels caretaker prime minister, Yair Lapid, applauded the cooperation by Israeli security personnel and said that al-Nabulsis killing was another step in our uncompromising struggle against terrorism.

Nabil Abu Rdeneh, a spokesman for Abbas, warned that continued violence could further ignite the region, and accused the Israeli government of shedding Palestinian blood to secure internal political capital ahead of November parliamentary elections.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked about the killings Tuesday, said: Were, obviously, very concerned about the increased violence that weve seen in the occupied West Bank, including the killing today of three Palestinians in Nablus and one in Hebron following clashes with Israeli security forces.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls on all sides to demonstrate calm and calls on the relevant authorities to carry out independent, transparent investigations into all deaths and injuries, Dujarric said.

Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war and the Palestinians seek it as the heartland of their future state. Israel views the West Bank as the biblical and historical heartland of the Jewish people, and has constructed dozens of settlements, now home to over 400,000 Israelis.

The Palestinians and much of the international community consider Israels West Bank settlements a violation of international law and an obstacle to a peaceful resolution of the decades-long conflict.

Associated Press writer Edith M. Lederer contributed from the United Nations.
WASHINGTON  An airman has been charged with six crimes in connection with an explosives attack in April that wounded four service members on a U.S. military base in Syria, the Air Force said Thursday.

Tech. Sgt. David D. Dezwaan Jr. faces charges of aggravated assault, dereliction of duty, destroying military property, reckless endangerment, access of a government computer with an unauthorized purpose and obtaining classified information in the alleged insider attack, Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek said.

The charges stem from an investigation into an April 7 bombing that took place at the base known as Green Village, which is east of the Euphrates River in Syria and adjacent to major oil fields.

Four U.S. troops received minor injuries that included possible traumatic brain injuries, U.S. officials said at the time.

Dezwaan was arrested June 16 when his commander made the decision to place him in pretrial confinement after reviewing the results of an investigation by the Army Criminal Investigation Division and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Stefanek said at the time.

Though indirect fire was initially blamed for the incident, investigators later found evidence that suggested someone had deliberately placed explosive material in an ammunition storage room and a shower area, according to an April 15 statement by Combined Joint Task Force  Operation Inherent Resolve.

Dezwaans preliminary hearing is scheduled for Aug. 23 at Hill Air Force Base in Utah, Stefanek said.

Several hundred U.S. and coalition forces are stationed at Green Village as they train local forces to fight remnants of the Islamic State terrorist group, according to the Pentagon.

Operation Inherent Resolve is a U.S.-led international coalition under U.S. Central Command that targets ISIS, primarily in Iraq and Syria.

Dezwaan joined the Air Force in October 2007 and is attached to the 775th Civil Engineer Squadron at Hill AFB. He has been awarded the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Navy Achievement Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal and the Army Commendation Medal, according to Stefanek.
WASHINGTON  Federal regulators said Monday they are satisfied with changes Boeing has made in the production of its 787 Dreamliner passenger jet, clearing the way for the company to resume deliveries.

American Airlines said it expects to get its first new 787 in more than 15 months as early as Wednesday.

The Federal Aviation Administration announcement confirmed reports late last month and came days after the agency's acting chief met with safety inspectors who oversee Boeing.

The FAA said acting Administrator Billy Nolen wanted to hear about steps Boeing has taken to fix manufacturing problems and ensure independence for Boeing employees who work with regulators.

Production of the big, two-aisle 787 has been marred by several problems including gaps between panels of the carbon-composite skin, and use of unapproved titanium parts from a supplier in Italy. Those issues prevented Boeing from delivering any of the planes for most of the last two years, and about 120 have been parked while Boeing tried to fix the production process.

The FAA said it will inspect each plane before it is approved for delivery.

American Airlines was hit particularly hard by the halt in deliveries. Earlier this year, it delayed some planned international flights because Boeing wasn't able to deliver the planes on schedule.

American said Monday that its newest 787 will come from a Boeing factory in South Carolina and is expected to begin carrying passengers "in the coming weeks." American said that will make 47 active 787s in its fleet, with another 42 on order.

Shares of Boeing Co., which is based in Arlington, Virginia, gained less than 1% on Monday after being up nearly 4% earlier in the trading session.
BALTIMORE (Tribune News Service)  To prevent damage from storms such as Sandy in 2012 and Isabel, a watershed flood event for Baltimore in 2003, the Army Corps of Engineers has been studying for years whether widespread sea walls or massive storm surge barriers would help.

A new plan it is floating for communities along Patapsco River shores includes neither.

The Army Corps proposal calls for flood walls only to keep water out of the citys two main highway tunnels. Instead of using such barriers to protect waterfront neighborhoods, including the Inner Harbor and Fells Point, its plan suggests floodproofing more waterfront homes and businesses to keep water out, or at least minimize its damage.

Such improvements would be up to individual property owners, who could seek government money to cover costs.

The plans are raising questions about how coastal communities should be preparing for the inevitable storms to come.

The Army Corps said its plans for Baltimore aim to balance waterfront access and historic preservation with a need to better armor against rising seas and strengthening storms. But some are questioning why the proposals dont extend to vulnerable parts of the city that are poorer and more diverse, and whether there should be broader, more organized regional and statewide investments in storm readiness.

It is a collective burden, and we need a collective response, said Del. Robbyn Lewis, a Democrat who represents South and Southeast Baltimore.

The plan, which is in the midst of a public review process and would require congressional approval to move forward, is estimated to cost $134 million, with construction starting in the late 2020s. Despite that cost, the Army Corps estimates the region would save $4 million a year, on average, in avoided storm damage repairs from 2031 through 2080.

The agency is seeking input on the plan  one set of possible solutions within a range of alternatives being considered to address flooding  via its website through Aug. 19. The project could advance from feasibility study into design work by 2024.

Once that phase begins, it would become clearer how much money could be available to waterfront residents and businesses and what sorts of flooding prevention solutions might be available to them, said Cynthia Mitchell, a Corps of Engineers spokeswoman. But before that, the agency is taking input to help shape next steps.

This is a tentative plan, said Joseph Bieberich, project manager on the coastal storm risk study for the Army Corps.

While he said feedback from the community would help shape its final form, it wont change drastically.

Other options the Corps considered include proposals to build sea walls around the Inner Harbor, Fells Point, Canton and Locust Point, as well as the Seagirt Marine Terminal at the Port of Baltimore and the Wheelabrator incinerator in Southwest Baltimore. The study also explored constructing massive storm surge barriers near the mouth of the Patapsco River and in the Middle Branch.

The plan as it is being presented to the public this summer avoids some of those more expensive and complex ideas in part because of the impact they might have on tourism and aesthetics, changing or severing connections to the water.

While such solutions might dramatically lower flood risks, they often come at a cost that isnt worth those benefits, said Sandy Hertz, director of the office of climate change resilience and adaptation at the Maryland Department of Transportation.

Its a very challenging project, said Hertz, whose agency has partnered with the Army Corps on its study. If it was easy, flooding and climate resiliency would have already been accomplished.

The effort is necessary to prevent storm damage from repeating or becoming even more severe.

In 2003, Isabel caused $252 million in damage in southern Baltimore County and $4.8 million in Baltimore, according to the Corps. The agency says flooding routinely causes more than $2 million in damages every year, and with sea level expected to rise anywhere from a foot to 5 feet by 2100, depending on how fast greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase, flooding threats are growing.

The Corps work comes out of a response to Superstorm Sandy, which the agency said demonstrated the power of increasingly severe storms and our vulnerability to them. A similar planning process is underway in the New York region, hit hard by Sandy and potentially in line for tens of billions of dollars in flood prevention projects.

In some parts of Baltimore, it is Isabels flooding that remains fresh in the minds of longtime residents. The storms path, making landfall in North Carolina and swiping Maryland from the west, meant storm surge swelled up the Chesapeake Bay, severely flooding everywhere from Somerset and Dorchester counties to Kent Island, Annapolis and Baltimore. Floodwaters killed one person in Maryland, while seven other deaths in the state were linked to the storm.

David Martz, a real estate agent who lives in Fells Point, said he knows his area would be among the first and most dramatically impacted if another storm like Isabel hits. His South Ann Street basement flooded in the September 2003 storm.

He said he recently got an email informing him about the Army Corps study, and that it talked about measures such as moving heating equipment and electrical panels out of the basement.

Such a strategy, known as wet floodproofing, also would require installation of flood vents so water can pass through a building with minimal damage. Alternatively, the Corps plan also suggests dry floodproofing in some cases, sealing basements and equipping them with floodgates that can be put in place before storms.

Martz said he is skeptical that taking such efforts all across Baltimores waterfront would be practical.

How would they propose me moving all of that upstairs? Martz asked. The intentions are good, but implementation would be just, I think, very costly.

Others question why the proposed work is limited to neighborhoods that line the Patapscos Northwest Branch  ones that are largely white and where property values are high  and leaves out communities to the south along the Middle Branch.

Curtis Bay, for example, is surrounded by dozens of industrial and formerly industrial sites, many of which handle hazardous materials, said Meleny Thomas, a resident involved with the Community of Curtis Bay Association and executive director of the South Baltimore Community Land Trust. That includes a CSX facility where there was a December explosion about which residents are still awaiting answers.

But those potential hazards are not part of the Corps plans, and Thomas said her community hasnt been engaged on the project.

The Corps plan notes there is an existing effort to use Federal Emergency Management Agency funding to improve resiliency, waterfront access, recreation and ecosystem health around the area, known as the Reimagine Middle Branch project.

Others who attended recent public meetings about the Corps plan questioned why there isnt more focus in Baltimore County, where Isabels damage was more costly. The Corps has separately been working with county officials and residents in the Turner Station community, a historically Black neighborhood near Dundalk, on a plan to address repeated flooding issues there.

Lewis said she supports efforts to help prepare the region for extreme weather, but questions why more hasnt been done to act on existing plans to improve sustainability and resiliency. She said she hopes that changes soon.

I do worry our response is still quite piecemeal, even though smart people have invested a lot of energy, Lewis said.

2022 Baltimore Sun.

Visit baltimoresun.com .
Former president Donald Trump routinely ripped up papers while in office  and upon leaving the White House, took at least 15 boxes of official records with him to Florida (including documents clearly marked as classified).

Now, as part of a federal investigation, the FBI conducted a court-approved search of Trump's residence at his Mar-a-Lago club on Monday.

It is not clear what prompted the search, though people familiar with the investigation said it was related to the possible mishandling of classified documents.

Any mishandling could be in violation of a law requiring Trump to preserve his records and phone calls of his official duties as president. If he were to be charged and found guilty of willfully hiding or destroying confidential and classified materials  a big if  some legal experts say he could be barred from being president again. Other experts disagree.

What is the Presidential Records Act?

One law Trump could potentially be accused of breaking by taking or destroying official documents is called the Presidential Records Act.

Every president has violated the Presidential Records Act in some way, such as by using personal phones for texts or emails, for example, presidential historian Robert David Johnson said. But Trump might be the most egregious violator of the law in its 44 years of existence, Johnson said: "Since [Richard] Nixon, there is no example of a president just pretending the law doesn't exist."

Trump's actions have been on a whole other level. According to Post reporting, he tore up hundreds of documents  perhaps more  indiscriminately. His aides used burn bags to destroy documents rather than hand them over for preservation. The New York Times' Maggie Haberman reports he flushed documents down the toilet. There is a gap of more than seven hours on in his phone logs on one of the most crucial days of his presidency, the day of the Jan. 6 insurrection.

This is all after White House lawyers explicitly told Trump about the law requiring that he preserve documents.

One of the more charitable ways to look at his propensity for ripping up official documents is that it was a habit, almost like a nervous tic. But that doesn't explain why boxes of official records went with him to Mar-a-Lago rather than being handed over to the National Archives.

Trump previously issued several statements about these actions, denying there was any contention between him and the National Archives, which will work to help set up a presidential library for him.

On Monday, Trump said in a statement that the search was inappropriate because he had been "working and cooperating with the relevant government agencies"  on what, he didn't say.

What we know about the Justice Department probe so far

Earlier this year, the National Archives recovered 15 boxes of White House records from Mar-a-Lago and saw that some of the documents were marked "classified." They asked the Justice Department to investigate, and in April, The Post reported that federal prosecutors were looking into it.

By May, the Justice Department began asking former White House aides about the boxes. They also convened a grand jury, a significant escalation in the investigation, and the grand jury issued a subpoena to learn more.

Then in August came the search at Mar-a-Lago by FBI agents. For the FBI to search someones home  let alone a former president  requires the government to show an extraordinary amount of evidence that they have reason to believe a crime has potentially been committed. That evidence was presented to a federal judge, who signed off on a court order OKing the search.

To get such a high-profile search warrant, the FBI also likely conveyed a sense of urgency to the judge, said Jack Sharman, who served as special counsel to Congress during the Whitewater investigation.

According to Trump, the agents searched his safe, though he didn't say what for.

Could Trump, or anyone, be charged with a crime?

Prosecutors could be probing whether the former president or his aides violated the Presidential Records Act, mishandled classified material or lied to investigators about whether they returned all the material to the archives when they were asked to do so.

To determine if Trump himself should be charged with a crime, prosecutors would need to assess his knowledge of and intent with taking the documents out of the White House, said Barbara McQuade, a former U.S. attorney. And prosecutors would want to know what, specifically, was in them.

"I am very curious as to what was in these documents and why he wanted them," she said. If they were top secret, their classification means that disclosure could be reasonably expected to cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security of the United States. "These are the types of documents that would make most of us quiver to hold," McQuade said, "let alone retain unlawfully."

The Presidential Records Act has really been more of a guideline for presidents, said James Grossman, executive director of the American Historical Association. "So if you have people in the White House who want to make things work, then they have guidelines to follow. I doubt it occurred to anybody when it was passed that it would need an enforcement mechanism." In other words, the law assumes presidents and their administrations will make a good-faith effort to comply.

It's not clear what prosecutors would need to prove to find Trump  or anyone else  guilty of violating the Presidential Records Act or other laws regarding safe handling of classified and public information, say legal experts. That's in part because the Presidential Records Act has never had an enforcement mechanism; it's always been up to the White House to monitor itself.

Willfully trying to hide or destroy official documents is a separate federal crime. It's punishable by up to three years in jail  and by disqualification from holding public office. Violation of this statute requires a willful intent to take or hide or destroy the documents. Prosecutors would have to prove that Trump or those around him knew what they were doing was wrong, and that they did it anyway.

If he's charged and found guilty, could Trump be barred from office?

Some legal experts think if Trump is found guilty of hiding classified material, he could be barred from running for president again. The relevant law regarding public documents says that a violator "shall forfeit his office and and be disqualified from holding any office under the United States."

"There could be constitutional challenges," said Jeffrey Jacobovitz, a prominent trial attorney in Washington, "but the statute seems to be clear on its face."

Marc Elias, a prominent Democratic lawyer, pointed to this statute when calling the search "a potential blockbuster in American politics" in a Twitter post on Monday night. He later followed up by saying there'd likely be "a constitutional challenge to the application of this law to a president."

That's because the Constitution sets the qualifications for president  and nowhere does it say that being convicted of a crime  including one involving public documents  would bar someone from holding office. "A statute cannot supersede that," said McQuade.

How record-keeping is supposed to work

At the end of the president's administration, officials must hand over official documents  typically amounting to tens of thousands of pages  and tapes to the federal government. That can include national security briefs, handwritten notes, daily presidential logs and calendars, emails and faxes, and phone logs. The law also requires that presidents and their staffers take "every practical step" to preserve all this.

The archivists at the National Archives oversee this whole process.

In most White Houses, aides track where the president is and what he's doing at all times. On Jan. 6, 2021, the day of the Capitol riot, the White House Daily Diary mentions such details as: "11:08 a.m.: The president went to the Oval Office. 12:00 p.m.: The president made remarks at 'Save America Rally.' 1:19 p.m.: The President returned to the South Grounds of the White House and went to the Oval Office."

The National Archives culls the documents and decides which ones to preserve, which ones can become public, and which ones should be private or redacted, based on potential national security concerns or other reasons. A president can destroy a document only after receiving permission from archivists to do so.

The law also set up a system for people to appeal to the National Archives for a record that was redacted. Johnson says that he goes to battle with the National Archives regularly for documents, and that he often loses.

Why the law is important

Every president since the 1930s has preserved a sizable chunk of their records, often to be displayed in their presidential libraries. But it wasn't until 1978, after Nixon tried to keep many of his documents private, that Congress passed a law codifying the practice that presidents must preserve all historically relevant material. Here's more on how the law came to be.

Without it, presidents themselves decided which records to share with the public. And, thus, they shaped history in the way they wanted it to be told. Nixon's library originally portrayed the Watergate scandal only as an attack on Nixon, rather than as an abuse of power. (The Nixon estate lost a 20-year litigation battle to keep the more damaging parts of Watergate out of his presidential library.)

"It's a better society when the public has access to documents that are produced on the public's behalf," Johnson, the historian, said. "So what both Nixon and Trump did, they are really striking at the heart of the definition of transparency."

The National Archives' Latin motto ( "Littera Scripta Manet") loosely translates to "The Written Word Endures." Its role is to help protect the nation's history by preserving access to government records, which then allows Americans to hold elected officials accountable for their past actions.

The law also facilitates presidential transitions, by letting the incoming administration read up on what the outgoing administration was doing.
Former president Donald Trump's residence at his Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach, Fla., was raided Monday by the FBI in what appeared to be part of a long-running investigation of whether documents  some of them top-secret  were taken there instead of being sent to the National Archives when Trump left office.

News of the court-authorized raid prompted recriminations from Trump's fellow Republicans, including House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., who threatened to investigate the Justice Department if the GOP takes control of the chamber next year. Democrats, who twice impeached Trump but failed both times to convict him, welcomed the news of the raid.

Christina Bobb, an attorney for Donald Trump, criticized the search warrant used to conduct the raid at Mar-a-Lago as "thin" and confirmed that authorities were looking for classified documents related to the Presidential Records Act.

In an interview on "Real America's Voice" Tuesday, Bobb said she arrived at Mar-a-Lago as the raid was taking place, announced herself as Trump's legal representation and asked to see the warrant.

Bobb said the supporting documentation for what the probable cause was to obtain the warrant was sealed and that they would have to go to court to request a judge release it  "which, you know, may or may not happen."

President Joe Biden was not aware that a warrant had been issued for the FBI to be able to search Mar-a-Lago, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday.

"No, the president was not briefed, did not  was not aware of it," Jean-Pierre said. "No. No one at the White House was given a heads-up. No, that did not happen."

Jean-Pierre said it would be inappropriate for the White House to comment on any ongoing investigation by the Justice Department, stressing that Biden "has been unequivocal since the campaign" that he believes in the department's independence.

While Democrats have been noticeably quieter than Republicans about the raid of Trump's residence, several have pushed back on the notion that Trump wasn't a fair target.

"It's a fundamental truth in our country that no one is above the law," Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., tweeted. "The FBI and DOJ must be allowed to continue their work free from political interference."

Leading Republican lawmakers are calling on Attorney General Merrick Garland and FBI Director Christopher Wray to hold news conferences and appear before Congress to explain why the raid was necessary.

During a television appearance Tuesday morning, Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., said Garland and Wray  as well as Biden  should appear before cameras and "take all questions, explain why they're doing what they're doing, what each of them knew when."

"This should scare every American," Scott, who leads the campaign committee of Senate Republicans, said on Fox Business. "Until we get answers, you should have unbelievable concern."

On Monday night, Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, the top Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, said Garland and Wray need to appear before Congress.

"Merrick Garland, Chris Wray, come to the House Judiciary Committee this Friday and answer our questions about this action . . . which has never happened in American history," Jordan said on Fox News. "What was on the warrant? What were you really doing? What were you looking for?"

The House is in recess but is planning to be in session Friday to vote on a sweeping Senate-passed economic package.

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, also weighed in Tuesday morning, writing on Twitter: "Transparency brings accountability & if the FBI & DOJ aren't transparent about raiding a former presidents home they risk further damaging their credibility."

Former vice president Mike Pence said that the FBI raid of Trump's Florida residence had undermined public confidence in the U.S. justice system, and he called on Garland to "give a full accounting."

As he eyes a possible 2024 White House bid, Pence has in some ways sought to distance himself from Trump recently while trying to stay in the good graces of Trump's supporters.

"I share the deep concern of millions of Americans over the unprecedented search of the personal residence of President Trump," Pence said in several tweets Tuesday. "No former President of the United States has ever been subject to a raid of their personal residence in American history."

Pence accused FBI agents of having shown "political motivation" during the Trump administration.

A Justice Department spokeswoman declined to comment Monday when asked whether Garland approved the raid. The FBI also declined to comment.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., called for Garland to resign or face impeachment, claiming that the FBI raid of Mar-a-Lago amounted to "an unprecedented assault on democratic norms and the rule of law." His statement went further than those of most of his colleagues, who demanded explanations for the raid from Garland and Wray, either in briefings or congressional hearings.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., called for Congress to "defund" the agency and said Republicans should take on "the enemy within" in January, when they are hoping to take control of the House.

While many Republicans have quickly come to Trump's defense, one key Republican has so far remained silent: Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky.

The silence is a stark contrast to many members of the House GOP but is characteristic of McConnell. He doesn't mention the former president unprompted and has not disparaged the House select committee's investigation into the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection, saying he is watching to see what it finds.

Trump, on the other hand, has repeatedly slammed McConnell. He has called him an "old crow," and just this week said McConnell "got played like a fiddle" after the Democrats passed their climate change and health-care bill.

The last time McConnell spoke with Trump was Dec. 15, 2020, after the state electors' vote certifying Joe Biden's win. After the Jan. 6 riot, McConnell called Trump "morally responsible."

Every president has violated the Presidential Records Act in some way, such as by using personal phones for texts or emails, for example, presidential historian Robert David Johnson said. But Trump might be the most egregious violator of the law in its 44 years of existence, Johnson said: "Since [Richard] Nixon, there is no example of a president just pretending the law doesn't exist."

Trump's actions have been on a whole other level. According to Washington Post reporting, he tore up hundreds of documents  perhaps more  indiscriminately. His aides used burn bags to destroy documents rather than hand them over for preservation. There is a gap of more than seven hours on in his phone logs on one of the most crucial days of his presidency, the day of the Jan. 6 insurrection.

Earlier this year, the National Archives recovered 15 boxes of White House records from Mar-a-Lago and saw that some of the documents were marked "classified." They asked the Justice Department to investigate, and in April, The Post reported that federal prosecutors were looking into it.

By May, the Justice Department began asking former White House aides about the boxes. They also convened a grand jury, a significant escalation in the investigation, and the grand jury issued a subpoena to learn more.

To get such a high-profile search warrant, the FBI also likely conveyed a sense of urgency to the judge, said Jack Sharman, who served as special counsel to Congress during the Whitewater investigation.

To determine if Trump himself should be charged with a crime, prosecutors would need to assess his knowledge of and intent with taking the documents out of the White House, said Barbara McQuade, a former U.S. attorney. And prosecutors would want to know what, specifically, was in them.

"I am very curious as to what was in these documents and why he wanted them," she said. If they were top secret, their classification means that disclosure could be reasonably expected to cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security of the United States. "These are the types of documents that would make most of us quiver to hold," McQuade said, "let alone retain unlawfully."

Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., suggested in a tweet Tuesday that presidents  and presumably former presidents  should not be subject to criminal raids.

"If the FBI can raid a U.S. President, imagine what they can do to you," Stefanik, the third-ranking House Republican, said in a tweet, referring to Monday's FBI raid of the residence of former president Donald Trump in Palm Beach, Fla.

Like several of her colleagues, Stefanik also pledged to launch an investigation into the Justice Department if Republicans take back control of the House next year.

Trump is seeking to raise money for his political action committee off the FBI raid of his residence.

A text message sent to supporters Tuesday morning announces that "MAR-A-LAGO was raided" and provides a link to donate to Save America, Trump's PAC.

A landing page seeks to stoke more outrage, offering this message: "It's time for EVERY PATRIOT to step up and stand against the Left's reckless WITCH HUNTS and political persecution of President Trump!"

Donors are asked to donate between $45 and $5,000.

Trump's Democratic opponent in the 2016 presidential election, Hillary Clinton, made a point of hawking merchandise that references the controversy over her use of a private email server while secretary of state.

The merchandise, which includes the slogan, "But her emails," benefits Clinton's political organization, Onward Together.

Trump's advisers said he was not there on Monday when the raid involving more than a dozen FBI agents was conducted. He was at Trump Tower in New York, they said.

Trump briefly addressed the FBI activity during a tele-rally Monday night for former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, R, now a congressional candidate, calling it "another day in paradise." In an earlier statement, he said his home was "under siege."

Trump advisers have denied any bad intent, saying the boxes in question contained mementos from his presidency.

In another development Tuesday, a federal appeals court panel ruled that House Democrats are entitled to review Trump's tax returns for 2015 to 2020, rejecting several legal arguments by the former president, who has sought for years to keep his financial records private.

The decision by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit was a victory for the House Ways and Means Committee, whose chairman, Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., first requested in 2019 that the Internal Revenue Service turn over copies of Trump's tax returns to the committee. The Treasury Department initially declined, and the issue has been tied up in litigation ever since.

Trump has a week to appeal the panel's ruling, including asking the full appellate court to hear the case, before the judgment takes effect. Trump's attorney Cameron T. Norris, who is handling the appeal, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., applauded the decision, calling it "an important victory for the rule of law."

- - -

The Washington Post's Leigh Ann Caldwell, Amber Phillips, Amy B Wang and Paul Duggan contributed to this report.
Former President Donald Trump has to turn over his tax returns to a congressional committee, a federal appeals court ruled.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit rejected Trump's appeal of a lower court's ruling allowing the tax returns to be sent to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

The committee said in a tweet it expects to receive the tax returns and audit files requested immediately. Dylan Peachey, a spokeswoman for the committee, said additional details would released soon.

The court's ruling adds to the legal pressure on the former president and comes on the heels of the FBI executing a search warrant at Trump's Florida home.

The chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Democrat Richard Neal, requested six years' worth of Trump's returns from the IRS in 2019, citing a 1924 law that allows the chairmen of three tax committees in Congress to ask the U.S. Treasury secretary for the returns of any taxpayer.

The Treasury Department under Trump refused to comply, so the committee filed suit. Last year, under the Biden administration, the Justice Department directed the Treasury Department to hand over the tax returns to Congress. Trump sued to block the release.

A district court in December rejected that effort, saying Supreme Court precedents require "great deference" to valid congressional inquiries.

Trump can appeal the ruling, though it's unclear if the U.S. Supreme Court will elect to take it because it has already considered similar cases.

The Supreme Court ruled last year that Trump's taxes could be turned over to a prosecutor in Manhattan. In a separate case at the Supreme Court, the justices asked that lower courts review whether a House request for the returns was "no broader than reasonably necessary."

Neal's committee could vote to release them or a summary of their findings to all 435 members of the House, effectively making the information public.

Though presidents and candidates for the White House aren't required by law to show voters their tax returns, it has been common practice for decades. Trump is a rare exception. During his campaign and while serving as president he declined to make public his tax documents.
Travelers endured a difficult weekend at the nation's airports as storms snarled air travel, prompting since Thursday the cancellation of more than 4,000 flights and the delay of tens of thousands.

The troubles began Thursday as severe weather swept through the Northeast, where the Federal Aviation Administration issued ground stops at several airports. The inclement weather continued Friday, triggering another round of cancellations.

Those delays rippled throughout the nation's aviation system and affected virtually all U.S. carriers. The latest round of disturbances comes as airlines already are under scrutiny for their performance this summer, a period marked by heightened demand for air travel during a pandemic that saw airlines lose thousands of employees.

Some of the industry's worst-performing days in recent months have surrounded holidays  with significant numbers of cancellations over the Memorial Day and Father's Day/Juneteenth weekends. While staffing shortages have been an ongoing factor in this year's delays, weather appeared to be the main culprit in the latest round.

Friday was the roughest of recent travel days, with more than 1,500 flights canceled and more than 7,600 delayed, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware.com. The day saw more than half of Southwest Airlines' scheduled arrivals delayed by an average of nearly an hour. New York-based JetBlue Airways ran into similar issues; half of its Friday arrivals were delayed an average of 96 minutes. JetBlue did not respond to requests for comment.

Several carriers, including American Airlines and United Airlines, issued travel waivers, which allow customers more flexibility to rebook their flights.

United officials said thunderstorms and strong winds affected operations at the carrier's Newark and Chicago hubs, disruptions that rippled throughout its network. During the height of weekend disruptions, United customers were delayed an average of more than 90 minutes. Southwest and Delta Air Lines officials also said severe weather affected their operations.

By Sunday, the number of cancellations had dropped significantly, although delays remained a problem. The pace resumed Monday, when more than 4,200 delays were reported.

This year has recorded more cancellations and delays than in all of 2021, according to FlightAware. U.S. airlines canceled 2.7% of flights between Jan. 1 and Aug. 7 this year, compared to 1.5% in 2021. The number of delayed arrivals has grown to 20.7% this year, compared to 15.6% in 2021.

The latest delays come as airlines have taken steps in recent months to handle the increased demand for air travel after it nearly ground to a halt early in the pandemic. Despite more passengers, carriers have reduced the number of flights they operate. Those slimmed-down schedules mean fewer options for passengers when problems occur.

The nation's top transportation official, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, had to make alternative arrangements after two of his flights were canceled earlier this summer.

Frustrations over the industry's operational issues have spilled into public view this summer, with airlines blaming some of the problems on a shortage of air traffic controllers. While some disruptions this year have been tied to weather and staffing issues at key air traffic control centers, federal data shows that many are the fault of U.S. carriers.

According to data last month from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, air carriers were directly responsible for about 41% of delays through May, a figure on par with 2021 but higher than before the pandemic. Late-arriving aircraft  another problem mostly attributable to airlines  accounted for an additional 37% of delays.

The data showed roughly 17% of delays were linked to problems with the nation's airspace, including congestion, bad weather or staffing at air traffic control facilities. That figure was the lowest since officials began tracking the data in 2004. Extreme weather is its own category, accounting for about 5% of delays.

The problems have prompted lawmakers and consumer advocates to push for more protections for passengers.

Last week, the Transportation Department proposed protections that include requiring airlines to issue vouchers with no expiration date to passengers infected with the coronavirus or other communicable diseases who decide to cancel their travel plans. DOT officials say that without the protections, would-be passengers face a choice between traveling and risking the health of fellow passengers or suffering a financial loss.

The public has 90 days to comment on the proposal. Then the Transportation Department will consider the comments before finalizing the rules.

"When Americans buy an airline ticket, they should get to their destination safely, reliably, and affordably," Buttigieg said in a statement. "This new proposed rule would protect the rights of travelers and help ensure they get the timely refunds they deserve from the airlines."

Also last week, a group of Democratic members of the House and the Senate introduced legislation that would build on existing federal refund rules. The bill would entitle passengers to refunds if they cancel tickets at least 48 hours before departure.

The number of delays and cancellations Tuesday appeared to be on the decline, with a only a handful of flights removed from the schedule.
(Tribune News Service)  A rat infestation has forced about two dozen Phoenix veterans, including a 106-year-old, from a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs facility, Arizona officials reported.

Theres been no interactions, no bites, no infections, Mike Welsh, interim VA medical director for Phoenix, told KNXV.

Residents at the community living center located next to a VA medical center have been moved to other facilities while workers battle the rats, AZ Family reported. The infestation came to light in July when workers discovered chewed-up ceiling tiles.

Rats also were found in an unused part of the second floor, KPNX reported. Welsh told the station that officials believe recent monsoon storms drove the rats indoors.

The relocated veterans range in age from their 70s to 106 years old, according to the station.

Officials dont know how long it will take to get rid of the rats, AZ Family reported.

Our office has been briefed on this horrible situation and is in contact with the Phoenix VA leadership, a spokesperson for Democratic U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema told KNXV. Well continue holding the VA accountable to make this right and ensure veterans receive the care theyve earned in a safe and clean environment.

2022 The Charlotte Observer.

Visit charlotteobserver.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Judge Bryan Smyth struck the case out, sparing him a criminal record after he paid compensation and apologised.

Colm Fitzpatrick, of Whitebeam Road, Clonskeagh was charged with assault causing harm.

Colm Fitzpatrick (22) left the victim with thousands of euros in dental expenses and a split lip when he punched him in a moment of pure madness after a misunderstanding over a bottle-throwing incident.

Judge Bryan Smyth struck the case out, sparing him a criminal record after he paid compensation and apologised.

Fitzpatrick, of Whitebeam Road, Clonskeagh, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm.

Garda Sergeant Michelle Lynch told Dublin District Court on the night of December 20, 2020, the victim had been socialising with friends at Charlemont Place in central Dublin.

He had an altercation with Fitzpatrick, with whom he shared mutual friends.

The accused punched him once in the mouth and the mans left front tooth fell out.

The victim also suffered a deep cut to his lower lip.

Fitzpatrick fled, but returned a few minutes later, apologising and crying. The tooth cost 3,440 to replace.

Fitzpatrick and the victim were out socialising with separate groups of friends, his barrister said.

There was a misunderstanding where Fitzpatrick thought the victim was part of another group that was throwing bottles.

The accused made a smart comment, the victim told him to f**k off and Fitzpatrick saw red and lashed out.

Fitzpatrick said his actions were completely over the line and he would live with the guilt and shame for the rest of his life.

His mother had already paid the victims A&E fee and Fitzpatrick had saved the rest of the compensation himself.

Fitzpatrick, with no previous convictions, was studying business and law in UCD and was focused on a career in accounting and finance.

The judge said the accused made a grave error but it was out of character.
Simon Walker (44) repeatedly sent Ms Spence pictures of himself over a period of several hours

Simon Walker was acting under the belief he was in the security services, a court was told last week.

The 44-year-old was sentenced for making threats to kill, harassment and misuse of a public communications system, committed between May 2020 and July last year.

Belfast Magistrates Court was told he started contacting Rebecca Spence, known as Becky, over Facebook Messenger on the morning of July 24 last year.

A prosecution lawyer said he repeatedly sent Ms Spence, the daughter of UDA boss Jim Spence, pictures of himself over a period of several hours.

After he began messaging her again the next day, she told him it was harassment and asked him to stop.

Rebecca Spence

The other charges related to an incident in May the previous year at Tennent Street police station off the Shankill Road.

A prosecution lawyer said Walker appeared at the station and made a demand to the woman on the reception desk that he be paid 500 owed to him by the PSNI by 5pm.

He then showed her a picture bearing the Red Hand Commando logo and asked: Do you know who I am?

Walker then threatened to kill the woman if she left the police station, saying she was going to get it.

A defence solicitor told District Judge George Conner that Walker suffered from a personality disorder.

He explained that at the time of the offences, the defendant was operating under the false impression that he was a spook and involved with some intelligence organisation.

The lawyer said this was obviously not the case and the incident at the police station was complete madness.

Sentencing Walker, Judge Conner said that while the offences were very serious matters, he would take account of his criminal record and favourable pre-sentence report.

He handed the defendant, from Loughview Glen in north Belfast, a sentence of four months on each charge, suspended for two years.

Judge Conner also imposed a restraining order barring Walker from contacting Rebecca Spence for a period of two years.

In March this year, he also narrowly avoided prison for a series of offences, including smashing the windows of a bar Rebecca Spence owns, attacking her father and causing a bomb hoax.

UDA boss Jim Spence

During his sentencing for those offences, a court was told he branded Jim Spence, the loyalist heavily linked to the 1989 UDA murder of solicitor Pat Finucane, a tout, called on troops to smash his windows and told him to leave Ulster in one of a series of sinister Facebook posts between April and July 2021.

The hearing was also told how, in one incident, Walker was driving down the Ballygomartin Road in west Belfast when he saw Spence walking on the footpath. He pulled his car over to the side of the road and told Spence to get inside as he was going to take him for a drive and do him in.

The defendant then produced a wheelbrace and attacked him. After the police were called, Walker was arrested at the scene.

On the same day, he threw rocks at the windows of the Shankill Roads Bar Berlin, which is owned by Spences daughter, causing 1,200 of damage.

The court was told that the following month, Walker phoned Musgrave Street police station and asked to speak to either C3 (formerly Special Branch) or someone in military intelligence.

When asked by the call handler why, he said it was about a bomb in the police station.

Officers who recognised his number went to his house and dialled it, after which his phone was heard ringing.

For the latest set of offences, the judge sentenced him to four months in prison on each charge, suspended for two years and to run concurrently.
unprovoked | Tributes paid after Irishman (87) stabbed to death in shocking act of violence in London
The murder suspect, who is in his 30s, was still being questioned last night.

Gardai found the decomposing remains of a 28-year-old man who was shot dead in a Dublin apartment last week hidden in a wardrobe in the bedroom of the property.

During last Saturdays search operation detectives found the remains of Sean McCarthy wrapped in bags in the wardrobe.

The chief suspect in Irelands latest gun murder is considered a nobody in terms of organised crime and is not classified as a senior player in any of Irelands major drugs gangs, a source has revealed.

However, gardai are not looking for anyone else in relation to the murder of Sean McCarthy (28), whose body was found in a north Dublin apartment at the weekend.

It is believed Mr McCarthys body may have remained in the building for a number of days after he was killed.

After he was shot dead, he was moved to the wardrobe and left there for a number of days.

The murder suspect, who is in his 30s, was still being questioned last night.

The Sunday World can reveal he has few criminal convictions and is not linked to any of the north citys major crime figures.

Gardai are working on the theory that the murder on Achill Road, Drumcondra, is linked to the volatile north Dublin drugs trade.

Mr McCarthy is believed to have owed a five-figure debt to a dangerous Ballymun-based crack cocaine-dealing gang after a garda seizure and that he was either unable or unwilling to pay back the debt.

Sean McCarthy's remains are removed from the apartment building in Achill Road, Drumcondra. Photo: Collins Photos

New details about the murder victim emerged last night, including that he was arrested in relation to the false imprisonment of a young man in the Ballymun area a number of years ago.

This case never went to trial because the victim would not follow through with it but it was alleged that McCarthy was one of a number of masked men who kidnapped the young man and put him in a van and threatened him while armed with firearms, a source said.

It shows that apart from being in a position where he owed money for drugs, McCarthy was also well able to act as muscle for a very violent crime gang who have been terrorising their local community.

The man who is suspected of murdering Mr McCarthy also operated in these same crime circles but has come to previous garda attention only for public order offences and other minor criminal matters.

Sources said it is possible he could face a court hearing as early as today.

He was arrested on Saturday evening about the same time Mr McCarthys body was discovered.

Mr McCarthy had been missing from his home in Poppintree since last Tuesday morning and he was last seen in Drumcondra.

Sources said the victim was a low- to middle-level figure in a drug-dealing operation in the Ballymun area of the city in which crack cocaine and other hard drugs are distributed at street level.

Gardai at Ballymun continue to investigate all of the circumstances surrounding the death of a man in his late 20s whose body was discovered on the evening of Saturday, August 6, 2022, at an apartment on Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, a garda spokesman said.

The apartment on Achill Road, Drumcondra, remains preserved for technical examination.

The man in his 30s arrested as part of this investigation is still being detained at a garda station in north Dublin under the provisions of Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 20

Gardai are appealing for any persons who were travelling in the Home Farm Road area of Drumcondra and its environs between the morning of Tuesday, August 2, and the evening of Saturday, August 6, who observed any activity which drew their attention, to come forward, he added.
There were grave concerns last night that he may die such were the serious injuries inflicted on him but his condition has believed to have improved.

A 29-year-old man who was the victim of a serious assault at a city centre Luas stop on Sunday night was attacked by up to 10 young males, sundayworld.com has learned.

The victim who is from the capitals south inner city remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital tonight.

There were grave concerns last night that he may die such were the serious injuries inflicted on him but his condition has believed to have improved.

Sources say the victim was in the locality with his e-scooter when he was approached by a gang of youths who assaulted him.

Up to 10 male youths estimated to be aged between 15 and 18 were involved in the incident with two of them being the main attackers.

It is understood that two suspects who were not involved in the initial assault robbed the victims e-scooter and fled the scene.

A motive for the assault has not yet been established and one line in the investigation is that it was a random unprovoked attack according to a senior source.

The victim was punched numerous times during the attack.

Gardai from Store Street Garda Station are investigating the savage assault and are hopeful of identifying the suspects after getting excellent quality CCTV of the incident.

There have been no arrests so far and this evening gardai made an appeal for information in the case.

Gardai are investigating a serious assault which occurred at a public transport stop, in George's Dock, Dublin 1 on Sunday evening, 7th August 2022 shortly before 9pm, a spokeswoman said.

A man, aged in his 20s, received serious head injuries and was taken to the Mater Misericordiae Hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

A technical examination of the scene was conducted this morning.

Gardai are appealing for anyone with information to contact them. Gardai are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who was in the Georges Dock/Irish Financial Services Centre (IFSC) and surrounding areas between 7pm and 9.30pm on the evening of Sunday 7th August, 2022.

Anyone with information can contact Gardai at Store Street on 01 666 8000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station, she added.

The incident resulted in a partial shutdown of Luas services on Sunday evening at George's Dock.

A garda investigation into the assault resulted in the Luas Red Line service being shut down between Connolly and the Point stations.

The scene was closed off this morning to allow a technical examination to take place.

Red Line services resumed shortly before 9am on Monday.
Convicted child killer Robert Black was caught when a curious postman turned his head to look at the unfamiliar van as it passed on his street and in those seconds saw a childs feet disappear into the back.

The sliding-doors moment meant the end of the road for Black but the start of a massive police investigation which would him to some of the most notorious child murders and abductions of the previous decades.

Black pleaded guilty to kidnap and was later convicted of five murders and one attempted abduction - but a delve into his past links him to many more and unravels a story of pure evil.

Nicola Tallant talks to journalist Zoe Apostolides, whose book End of Innocence focuses on the unsolved cases that bear all the hallmarks of Blacks dark heart.

She describes the early life and forgotten crimes of Robert Black and reveals how he moonlighted as a willing delivery driver while staking out victims.

Crime Word Podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and Soundcloud.

MORE EPISODES 
The apartment block where the tragedy occurred is five minutes from the Port Aventura theme park

The tragedy happened in a resort in La Pineda, near the city of Tarragona, Spain

Emergency responders raced to the holiday apartment block in La Pineda near the east coast city of Tarragona after the alarm was raised at around 11am this morning.

They tried to revive the man on arrival at the scene but could do nothing to save him and he was pronounced dead before his body was removed for a post-mortem examination.

Police sources confirmed the dead man was Irish and was aged in his 40s.

The pool where he drowned was part of an apartment complex five minutes from the beach called Apartments Pineda Park.

A spokesman for the regional Mossos dEsquadra police force said: There is nothing at this stage to suggest this mans death was the result of a crime and it is being treated as accidental.

The unnamed holidaymaker is said to have been staying in the area with relatives.

It was not immediately clear this afternoon if his family witnessed the drowning.

The five-floor holiday apartment block where the tragedy occurred describes itself online as ideal for the accommodation of families with children and couples who want to spend a vacation on the Costa Dorada, where the best beaches on the Mediterranean coast are located.

It is five minutes by car from the Port Aventura theme park.

Staff declined to comment this afternoon out of respect for the dead mans family.

The Costa Dorada, which translates as the Golden Coast in English, is a strip of Mediterranean coastline in Spains Catalonia region southwest of Barcelona.

La Pineda, between Tarragona and the lively town of Salou, is famed for its large sandy beach which makes it particularly popular for family tourism.

In June an Irish seven-year-old died in hospital two days after being pulled from her hotel pool in Majorca and revived before being rushed to an intensive care unit.

The girl had been staying with her family at the four-star HYB Eurocalas Hotel in the east coast resort of Calas de Mallorca.

On June 5 six-year-old Corey Aughey from north Belfast died in hospital after falling into the swimming pool of the hotel where he was staying with his family in the Majorcan resort of Sa Coma near the Love Island villa.

On May 25 British toddler Freddie Joseph Briggs drowned in a pool at his parents home in the village of Aigues near Benidorm, leading the local council to declare three days of mourning.
No other vehicles are thought to have been involved in the accident

The scene of Tuesdays afternoons fatal motorcycle crash at Ballyvelly in Tralee. Photo Mark OSullivan

A motorcyclist has died following an accident in the Strand Road area of Tralee in Co Kerry on Tuesday afternoon.

The accident  which involved a single motorcycle  occurred shortly after 4pm on Tuesday, close to the entrance to the Springfield housing estate in Ballyvelly.

It is understood that the bike went out of control and struck a wall. The motorcyclist, a man in his fifties, was pronounced dead at the scene.

No other vehicles are thought to have been involved in the accident.

Gardai and the emergency services were alerted at 4.15pm.

A large number of gardai, an ambulance and the fire service attended the scene of the crash which remained sealed off on Tuesday evening.

The circumstances of the crash are being investigated by the Garda Roads Policing Unit.

Anyone who witnessed the accident or who may have dashcam footage is asked to contact gardai in Tralee.
Johnny Adair: I know theres no point to it, but you cant help but think...what if? What if he had only done this? And what if he had only done that?

A large number of mourners from Northern Ireland are expected to cross the Irish Sea this week for the funeral of former loyalist gunman Sam Skelly McCrory.

Based in Belfasts Shankill Road area, McCrory had been a leading member of Johnny Mad Dog Adairs notorious C Coy.

It was without doubt, the foremost terror unit of the pro-union Ulster Freedom Fighters.

And police estimate that in the run-up to the paramilitary ceasefires in the 1990s, Adairs C Coy had been responsible for 57 killings.

A 57 year-old father of two, Sam McCrory died two weeks ago, after sustaining serious injuries following an accidental fall.

It is understood he passed away five hours later, after suffering a heart attack in Kilmarnocks Crosshouse Hospital, where he was undergoing treatment.

McCrory was within sight of his 4th floor apartment home in the Kincaidston, district of Ayr, when he lost his footing and plunged backwards down a steep flight of concrete stairs.

Sam Skelly McCrory

As he prepared for the funeral of his close friend on Thursday, Johnny Adair spoke of how McCrorys death hit him like a body blow.

Its still very hard to take it all in. Sam and I have known each other since we were at Primary School. he said.

And since weve been in Scotland - although we didnt see each other every day - we were in touch every day by phone. We were close friends.

Ive been helping clear out his flat and that meant I had to pass the spot where he fell. Three times I just stood and stared at it. Sam was almost home when it happened.

He literally could see his front door, but then lost his footing and fell. The staircase is really steep and the steps are rock-hard concrete with no soft covering. And of course, Sam was a big man.

I know theres no point to it, but you cant help but think...what if? What if he had only done this? And what if he had only done that?

Johnny Adair said he expects a large turnout for Sam McCrorys funeral on Thursday, with many mourners travelling from Northern Ireland.

We know a lot of people are coming over from Belfast. But Sam had also made many friends from right across the board in Scotland. said Johnny Adair.

And he added: Sam was a very popular person and religion meant nothing to him.

During the early 1990s, Sam McCrory was a gunman in the UFFs notorious C Coy, under the command of his close friend Johnny Mad Dog Adair.

Johnny Adair and Sam 'Skelly' McCrory

He was jailed for 16 years when he was convicted of conspiring to murder top IRA men Brian Joseph Gillen and Martin Duckser Lynch, in a house at Riverdale in the heart of nationalist west Belfast.

But shortly after the UFF hit team set out on the double murder mission, they were lured into a carefully planned RUC/British Army sting operation.

A hail of automatic gunfire hit their car seconds when it stopped at Finaghy Railway Bridge.

Seated in the rear seat with a CZ assault rifle across his lap, McCrory remained motionless as 35 high calibre bullets whizzed through the vehicle without hitting him.

He later said: Theres a lot of talk about collusion. Well, if that was collusion, I wouldnt like to see what would have happened if they didnt like me!

After his release from prison, Sam McCrory settled in Scotland. He had come out as openly gay and moved to the west coast to be with his partner.

Three years ago, a dissident republican gang targeted McCrory and Adair for murder after spotting them visiting a friend serving a prison sentence near Glasgow.

But would-be killers were caught in an undercover MI5 operation.

Sam McCrorys funeral will take place at Masonhill Crematorium in Ayr, on Thursday at 11.00am.

hjordan.media@btinternet.com
Rotorua Lakes Council says it will pursue costs over what it describes as a misconceived judicial review case launched and now withdrawn by election candidate Robert Lee.

The action has so far cost Rotorua Lakes Council almost $150,000.

Lee says he was disappointed it was necessary to withdraw his court action and he will appeal to the highest court in the land  the court of public opinion.

Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick says the case was, in her view, a political stunt - a claim Lee denies - which had caused hurt.

Lees original claim questioned the councils November 19 decisions to agree on an ideal representation model and pursue a local bill to change representation rules for the district.

The bill sought to have a model with the same number of seats in the Maori and general wards for the October local election and beyond.

The council paused the bill in April after Labours support for it crumbled following an Attorney-General ruling that it would discriminate against general roll voters.



Rotorua Lakes Council has paused a local bill seeking to change council representation rules for the district. Photo: Andrew Warner/Rotorua Daily Post/LDR.



Rotorua Lakes Council has paused a local bill seeking to change council representation rules for the district.

Court documents seen by Local Democracy Reporting show lawyers for the Attorney-General said on June 10 there were serious questions about the courts jurisdiction to entertain Lees claim, due to the Parliamentary Privileges Act and relevant case law.

The Attorney-Generals memorandum said there was constitutional and public importance of the principle of non-interference in parliamentary proceedings.

In another court document dated July 21, Judge Paul Davison said the Attorney-Generals lawyer had advised the issues raised would affect all causes of action for the case and, if resolved in favour for the Attorney-General, would dispose of the application for judicial review.

Judge Davison decided those issues would need to be resolved before a substantive hearing for the judicial review, which had been scheduled for August 4, according to the document.

I am satisfied that until the issues related to Parliamentary privilege are heard and determined it would be inefficient for the court to embark upon hearing the judicial review.

Judge Davison also stated the parties may wish to review positions on security for costs, which at that time were $15,000. The Attorney-General's involvement was on a costs neutral basis, where it would neither seek nor be liable for costs.

The August 4 date was then limited to issues raised by the Attorney-General, with the judicial review deferred pending a decision on the Parliamentary privilege issues.

The council was given until July 29 to put its documents together for the August 4 hearing, and Lee until August 2 to submit his own in response to the council and Attorney General.

On July 26 Lee responded in a court memo saying the timetable was unreasonable and unworkable and he believed the court had to take responsibility for sitting on its hands from June 10 when the Attorney General indicated its intention to intervene in the case.

He said the court should have given notice of any intention to vacate the substantive hearing.

I am a self-represented litigant, not a constitutional lawyer.

I acknowledge this is not an area in which I have any expertise. It is therefore not reasonable to expect me to respond to novel and complex constitutional arguments within just two working days.

He said the court should have appointed an amicus curiae  friend of the court  to represent his interests.



Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick.Photo: Andrew Warner/Rotorua Daily Post/LDR.

An amicus curiae can provide information and submissions about a particular area of law or advance legal arguments on behalf of an unrepresented party.

He said he believed the without-notice intervention was fatally prejudicial to his case and therefore he had little option but to withdraw it.

Lees memo stated the councils lawyer filed an application for security for costs for $28,500.

He argued the new timetable meant his case "could be moot" by the time the substantive hearing rolled around as by then the councils local bill could have been withdrawn by Parliament and the local election over.

The prejudice to my case is now beyond repair and not attributable to any fault of mine.

The memo said costs should rest where they lie.

Last week, Chadwick told Local Democracy Reporting she viewed the judicial review as a political stunt.

It was, in her opinion, orchestrated by disaffected individuals who now need to be held to account and pay the price for the hurt that they have caused to myself and other councillors.

She said the council was forced to respond to the action and it was, in her view, a sad waste of staff and elected members time.

Chadwicks comments followed a council statement last Thursday that said it would pursue costs following Lees withdrawal of the judicial review claim.

The council confirmed, in a clarifying statement, it had incurred costs of about $148,350 as that day.

A council spokeswoman confirmed it would be the courts decision to determine whether Lee should pay costs and if so, how much.

In the statement, council chief executive Geoff Williams said the council was always concerned the claim was, in his opinion, misconceived and would fail but the council would nevertheless incur significant costs defending it.

"That is why we had sought that Mr Lee pay a sum of costs into court as security for at least some of the costs incurred.



Rotorua Lakes Council chief executive Geoff Williams. Photo: Andrew Warner/Waikato Times.

He said the council was always careful in considering legal action but was forced into a serious legal situation by Lees court action and had to respond.

We have a responsibility to the Rotorua residents and ratepayers to pursue recovery of at least some part of the costs that council has been forced to incur through Mr Lees now withdrawn judicial review.

It is always disappointing to incur costs out of our control. However, it remains important that [the] council responds to any legal challenge appropriately in terms of both law and prudency.

It was always our view that Mr Lees case ... contained inaccurate allegations.

He said the council had instructed its lawyer to reject Lees request for costs to remain where they lie, and now awaited the judges decision, which was not expected before September.

The council statement claimed Lee had accused the council of predetermination in its decision-making during its representation review earlier this year and within that accused some elected members of holding a bias and/or conflicts of interest towards Maori and iwi stakeholders and beneficiaries in Rotorua.

After months of preparation, including the filing of an interim injunction by Mr Lee which was also earlier withdrawn, Mr Lee withdrew his appeal citing the process had proven too difficult.

In response, Lee told Local Democracy Reporting said in his opinion the council had no genuine concern for costs incurred to Rotoruas ratepayers in relation to the proceedings.

He viewed the councils costs as exorbitant.

He said in his view the councils statement was misleading as it omitted he withdrew after the court cancelled the substantive hearing.

Court documents show the substantive hearing was deferred to allow the Parliamentary privilege issues to be addressed.

"It is also misleading to claim that I cited the process had proven too difficult. That is a complete fabrication. I was ready for trial and very keen for it to proceed. I brought these proceedings in the public interest to ensure that Rotorua would continue to have free and democratic elections. That has been achieved for 2022 at least.



Rotorua Lakes Council candidate Robert Lee has withdrawn a judicial review case. Photo: Ben Fraser/Rotorua Daily Post/LDR.

In response to Chadwick, Lee said he was disappointed it became necessary to withdraw the judicial review and believed the evidence against the council was overwhelming and indefensible.

He believed the council had predetermined its decisions about the local bill and representation review in secret elected members workshops and this would have been sufficient for the court to overturn the councils [November 19] decision.

"Justice was delayed and therefore denied. This was not a political stunt. This was one person standing up to [the] council.

He wanted the council to withdraw the paused bill from Parliament and reconsider its partnership agreement with Te Tatau O Te Arawa.

He said he would appeal to the court of public opinion when he ran for a council seat in the October local election.

Lee was asked whether he believed he was in a position to pay any costs ordered, and how much he had fundraised to support the court action. He said he expected he would seek a refund from the court for their fees as well as an order that any costs incurred by the parties rest where they lie.

I have received donations from people who have supported these proceedings, but the question of how much I have received is a private matter between me and them.

He said putting himself into financial jeopardy reflected how important his cause was to him.

The Ministry of Justice was approached for comment.
A diabetic woman died less than 24 hours after she was admitted to a rest home because she did not receive the life-saving medication she depended on, including insulin, an investigation has found.

Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner Rose Wall found Oceania Care Company and two registered nurses in breach of the consumers' rights code as a result of the woman's death in 2018.

The woman in her 70s, referred to as Mrs A in the report, suffered from dementia and type 2 diabetes and was reliant on time and dose-sensitive medicines, including insulin and warfarin.

She was admitted to the rest home at 1pm, but when Mrs A's daughter returned that evening and used a personal blood sugar monitor the level was high, indicating she needed urgent attention.

The woman asked the nurse on duty to administer her medicine, but the doctor was yet to prescribe it so she gave her mother a dose of insulin herself.

A fax had been sent to Mrs A's GP seeking prescription details for her essential medications, but rest home staff failed to follow up the request with the doctor, medical centre or pharmacy in a timely manner.

The doctor told the deputy commissioner there was no record of the fax being received by the centre.

No blood sugar readings were taken by nursing staff that day.

Mrs A was checked by a nurse at 6.05am the following morning. The nurse found her in bed snoring, but when she checked again just half-an-hour later she found the woman unconscious and called for an ambulance.

Mrs A died in hospital at 7.55am - an autopsy listed her primary cause of death as hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic nonketotic syndrome.

Daughter feels 'regret, hopelessness' over mother's death

The woman's daughter complained to the commissioner that her mother had been consciously and carelessly neglected at the rest home, despite being under hospital-level care.

She said she was reluctant to put her mother in residential care and now feels a "deep sense of regret, self-reproach, loss, and hopelessness", and as though she failed "one of the people [she] loved most in this world".

She also questioned why Oceania did not carry out an internal investigation following her mother's death.

The deputy commissioner found the care provided to the woman fell short of acceptable standards in a number of areas in a time frame of less than 24 hours.

Mrs A's admission assessment noted she was taking warfarin and insulin, so Oceania was "on notice" that she required potentially life-saving medication and regular monitoring, the report said.

"Mrs A did not receive a prescription or verbal order for life-saving medications and, tragically, did not receive medications that could have managed her blood-sugar levels and ultimately prevented her death," Wall found.

At least three of the four nurses involved in her care failed to fulfil their clinical responsibilities and adhere to policies and procedures, she said.

"Policies are of little use if they are not followed by staff," the report said.

"There was a complete lack of critical thinking on the part of the nursing staff involved."

Wall made a number of recommendations, including that Oceania and four nurses involved in the case each write an apology to the woman's family, and the company review its policies and guidance for staff.

She also recommended the Nursing Council consider whether the competency of two of the nurses should be reviewed.

Oceania's general manager of clinical and care services Dr Frances Hughes said the company unreservedly apologised to the woman's family for the considerable distress her death had caused.

"We deeply regret the events that occurred during the resident's final days at one of our sites in 2018," she said.

Hughes said Oceania's senior management had changed, a new resident management system had been introduced and nurse practitioners had been recruited to work between centres in the area.

-RNZ/Jean Edwards.
Legislation to repeal the Three Strikes law has passed its third reading in Parliament, despite both the National Party and Act Party being opposed.

The Three Strikes Legislation Repeal Bill ends an anomaly in New Zealands justice system that dictates what sentence judges must hand down irrespective of relevant factors, says Justice Minister Kiri Allan.

The three strikes law was a knee-jerk reaction to crime by the former National-ACT coalition government that resulted in disproportionate and excessive sentences, when compared to the seriousness of the offence and the harm caused."

The National Party say that the Three Strikes repeal makes New Zealand less safe.

"Labours decision to reduce prison sentences for our worst repeat offenders shows the Government is out of touch on justice," says Nationals Justice spokesperson Paul Goldsmith.

Todays repeal of ACTs Three Strikes legislation shows that Labour values ideology over safe communities, says ACTs Justice spokesperson Nicole McKee.

Justice Ministry Kiri Allan, however, says there was no evidence that it worked.

"It failed to be a deterrent to offenders, it failed the tax-payer, and it failed victims, because it ensured they were in the system for longer," says Allan.

The three strikes law was introduced by the Sentencing and Parole Reform Act 2010. In effect, it created a mandatory sentencing regime for certain serious offences - commonly referred to as strike offences.

The three strikes law removes the discretion of sentencing judges to consider the seriousness of the offending or the circumstances of the offending and the individual offender," says Allan.

The High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court have found sentences imposed under the regime have breached the Bill of Rights Act.

National Party spokesperson for Justice Paul Goldsmith says by repealing the Three Strikes legislation, the Government has sent a strong message that criminals will be less accountable for repeated criminal acts.

"Three Strikes meant that the worst repeat offenders spent longer in prison, creating fewer victims and keeping our communities safer," says Goldsmith.

It is a perverse priority to reduce sentences for these offenders at a time when gun crime is rampant, gangs are recruiting faster than the police, violent crime is up, and there is a sense of disorder in our communities.

It is unimaginable that offenders such as Wiremu Allen, who was convicted of a third strike offence which entailed breaking into a house, demanding money from the victim and then shooting him, would not receive the maximum mandatory sentence today," says Goldsmith.

National Party spokesperson for Justice Paul Goldsmith. Photo: Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

ACT's Justice spokesperson Nicole McKee says that "with record ram raids terrorising people up and down the country, Labours big message to young offenders is giving an early Christmas present to the worst murderers, robbers and rapists in the country".

"The average Three Strikes offender has 75 convictions, and just 24 people have been sentenced to a Third Strike," says McKee.

Scrapping Three Strikes means the worst criminals will serve less time in prison and be out on our streets earlier. Theres no rationale for this change other than to meet Labours personal goal of reducing prison numbers, no matter how much danger it puts New Zealanders in.



Three Strikes was an ACT idea introduced in 2010 to send a signal to violent offenders that New Zealanders wont tolerate repeated violent and sexual offending," says McKee.

There were no petty criminals being charged under the law, it applied to the worst of the worst and made our communities safer."

Allan says that repealing the three strikes law will revert the sentencing process for strike offences to standard sentencing processes.

"Despite claims from the opposition, this does not mean people who commit serious and repeat offending will stop receiving severe sentences," says Allan.

Judges still retain the powers to sentence people to lengthy periods of imprisonment and can impose the same restrictions as provided by the three strikes law in appropriate cases.

Allan says these restrictions include preventive detention for repeat serious offenders, public protection and extended supervision orders, minimum periods of imprisonment, and imposing maximum penalties, up to life imprisonment.

The Justice Select Committee received a wide range of submitters including members of the public, legal practitioners, criminal justice advocacy groups, and strike offenders themselves," says Allan.

The Government has listened to those victims and victim advocacy groups who made submissions on the Bill.

Those who have committed strike offences prior to the repeal will not be able to have their sentences reconsidered, meaning the victims of these offenders will not be affected by the repeal," says Allan.

ACT MP Nicole McKee. Photo: Robert Kitchin /Stuff.

ACT's McKee says Labour has been single-minded in their drive to get rid of it "though, along the way theyve forgotten about the victims of serious crime".



This is a failure from out of touch student politicians whose idea of sound policy involves rainbows, unicorns and good intentions, but fails to deal with the reality New Zealanders face living in fear of criminals Labour just let off lightly," says McKee.

Thankfully, Kiwis wont have to wait long for this law to be back in place. ACT is committed to reinstating Three Strikes as part of our plan for the first 100 days of Government.

National's Goldsmith says Labours "soft on crime" approach has made New Zealand a less safe country.

Victim advocate groups submitted strongly against the repeal, noting more victims will be created by the Bill. Repealing Three Strikes means that offenders will be back in the community earlier, creating the conditions for more offending," says Goldsmith.

National will reinstate Three Strikes. This legislation is necessary to ensure repeat offenders are sentenced in line with the expectations of the communities they want to live in.

The repeal will take effect once the Three Strikes Legislation Repeal Bill receives Royal assent.

Further information is available on the Ministry of Justice website here: www.justice.govt.nz/justice-sector-policy/key-initiatives/repeal-of-the-three-strikes-law/
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Nimz BHPian



Join Date: May 2007 Location: Bangalore Posts: 552 Thanked: 137 Times

View My Garage





Re: New Royal Enfield spotted; it is the Hunter 350! Bookings are open. I went to the Enfield showroom here in Bangalore. They had the Retro variant and two Metro Rebel variants on display. No test rides yet. They are scheduled to start only from the 11th Aug.



Colors look catchy, bike looks "accessible". Sporty even. I had a slightly lean forward position. The exhaust note was out of this world. The foot pegs are center set so when I kept my feet down to balance, it fouled with my legs a bit. I guess it is a matter of getting used to it. I could keep both my feet flat on the ground comfortably (am 5'7").



Overall I felt that with the color schemes and what not, it was targeted more at the younger college crowd (unfortunately am past that age) so it seemed a little "raw"/ brash. (Disclosure - I had also just done a TD of the H'ness earlier in the day so maybe the contrast was more pronounced).



OTR in Bangalore for the Metro variant comes around 2.1L without any "mandatory" accessories or the RSA which dealerships force on you.
///RMan Distinguished - BHPian



Join Date: Jul 2013 Location: Mumbai Posts: 1,335 Thanked: 5,148 Times

Going to town in the Ace | My 1990 Toyota TownAce Super Extra



In my initial thread of finding and buying the W124, one of the criteria while hunting for the car was



Quote: ///RMan Originally Posted by

* Uniqueness - Since I do not see myself buying another one of its kind in the foreseeable future, I wanted to have something unique. Be it the body-style, or the engine.





Fast forward to about roughly 2 years after acquiring the W124, I thought I had gathered funds to start the restoration on the W124s. But like I said, destiny had other plans...



I'd been an absolute sucker for vans since childhood, growing up watching the A-Team to Scooby-Doo and everything in between, where vans were central characters to the plot. I'd found myself reading and waiting for updates on this thread by



My previous thread out here -



Quote: ///RMan Originally Posted by

This spontaneous trip had been an absolute blast! The journey back as a passenger in the W123 was the cherry on the cake for me.

But, while the cherry on the cake is always nice, it would not be as exciting if there were no cake at all, right?



So, what took the cake? Shall hopefully go to Town writing about it, hopefully soon This spontaneous trip had been an absolute blast! The journey back as a passenger in the W123 was the cherry on the cake for me.But, while the cherry on the cake is always nice, it would not be as exciting if there were no cake at all, right?So, what took the cake? Shall hopefully go to Town writing about it, hopefully soon



The cake (and a fairly large one at that) is this - the 1990 Toyota TownAce Super Extra!



I never was in the market for another old car, but as mentioned before,a van was always on the radar if anything popped up in the market.



In the meanwhile, I had window-shopped and looked at everything from the Matador, the MB100/MB140 and even an uber rare Honda StepWgn

I wasn't really serious, more like I'd just keep tabs on what was available in the market.



It stayed like that till this I made the trip to Ahmedabad to pick the W123 300 Turbodiesel with my friend, and bumped into this TownAce.

We got back to Bombay, and in about a fortnight, I had pursued, negotiated and closed the deal on the TownAce!



The car was kept parked at a friends house in Ahmedabad for a couple of months





After being in storage, the TownAce was pulled out and then on getting a good deal on a truck to get it to Bombay, the car was on its way to the city!

Being loaded onto a truck on the outskirts of Ahmedabad.









The truck arrived in Bombay after two days, delayed due to heavy rainfall and horrible roads en route.









Finally on Mumbai soil!







Like any typical old car, she headed straight to the workshop upon delivery







At Loyal's workshop, where it was joined in with another Japanese car from the same era.































As far as packaging is concerned, van's showcase some great ingenuity and ideas that manufacturers come up with.











Dirty, mucky and dusty from the months of storage and now the rains, little mattered to me that day - the car was home and she was mine! Sometimes destiny makes you eat your words, and this is my story of one such instance. Gladly though!In my initial thread of finding and buying the W124, one of the criteria while hunting for the car wasI had made the above comment keeping in mind that one old car will be enough pleasure (and pain) and is what my financial bandwidth only could afford. So I thought!Fast forward to about roughly 2 years after acquiring the W124, I thought I had gathered funds to start the restoration on the W124s. But like I said, destiny had other plans...I'd been an absolute sucker for vans since childhood, growing up watching the A-Team to Scooby-Doo and everything in between, where vans were central characters to the plot. I'd found myself reading and waiting for updates on this thread by rrsteer about his HiAce search and purchase experience. (Buying a used 2004 Toyota HiAce - What can go wrong? EDIT : Now bought!) . I knew someday I'd get a van I for sure, probably a modern one, especially since Kia, Toyota and Mercedes had taken upon themselves to flood the market with vans suddenly!My previous thread out here - The Turbodiesel Trot (The Turbodiesel Trot | GJ to pick up a W123 Mercedes) , I finished on these lines -Well, enough beating around the bush, I guess!The cake (and a fairly large one at that) is this - the 1990 Toyota TownAce Super Extra!I never was in the market for another old car, but as mentioned before,a van was always on the radar if anything popped up in the market.In the meanwhile, I had window-shopped and looked at everything from the Matador, the MB100/MB140 and even an uber rare Honda StepWgn pictured here (The Imported Vans Thread) I wasn't really serious, more like I'd just keep tabs on what was available in the market.It stayed like that till this I made the trip to Ahmedabad to pick the W123 300 Turbodiesel with my friend, and bumped into this TownAce.We got back to Bombay, and in about a fortnight, I had pursued, negotiated and closed the deal on the TownAce!The car was kept parked at a friends house in Ahmedabad for a couple of monthsAfter being in storage, the TownAce was pulled out and then on getting a good deal on a truck to get it to Bombay, the car was on its way to the city!Being loaded onto a truck on the outskirts of Ahmedabad.The truck arrived in Bombay after two days, delayed due to heavy rainfall and horrible roads en route.Finally on Mumbai soil!Like any typical old car, she headed straight to the workshop upon deliveryAt Loyal's workshop, where it was joined in with another Japanese car from the same era.As far as packaging is concerned, van's showcase some great ingenuity and ideas that manufacturers come up with.Dirty, mucky and dusty from the months of storage and now the rains, little mattered to me that day - the car was home and she was mine! Last edited by ///RMan : 9th August 2022 at 00:50 .
Recap: Google and Sonos cooperated on smart speaker tech almost a decade ago, but their relationship turned sour since Google became a major competitor in the space. The company's latest charges follow a courtroom loss to Sonos earlier this year.

Google opened two lawsuits against wireless speaker company Sonos this week, alleging infringement on some of its speaker and voice control technology. The two companies have gone back and forth over speaker patents for years.

The search engine giant has accused Sonos of infringing on technologies including "hotword" detection, wireless charging, and how groups of speakers determine which one responds to voice input.

Google is filing both lawsuits on Monday in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. Through similar suits with the US International Trade Commission, it also plans to ban imports of infringing Sonos products.

Sonos told The Verge that Google is trying to intimidate it and retaliate after a January court decision in Sonos' favor. Sonos also accused Google of monopolistic behavior, avoiding royalty payments, and trying to snuff out smaller competitors.

Google said Sonos is spreading misinformation about its products.

This saga started in 2013 when the two companies collaborated to make Google Music work with Sonos speakers. When Google later released Google Home, Pixel phones, and the Chromecast, Sonos accused it of using information gained from their partnership for its products. It opened a lawsuit in January 2020, with both sides countersuing each other soon after.

In January of this year, a US trade court ruled that Google infringed on some of Sonos's patents, banning the import of some Google products. Due to the ruling, Google had to issue software patches to its speakers, which degraded their functionality. For instance, users could no longer simultaneously change the volume on multiple speakers, and Google customers reacted angrily.

Google isn't the only big player Sonos has attacked. In 2020 its CEO accused Amazon of "predatory pricing" for selling its Echo speakers well below cost. Companies like Amazon and Google have ample revenue streams that easily subsidize such products, while Sonos has no such luxury. Amazon currently dominates the US smart speaker market with a 70-percent market share, while Google has about 25 percent.
The big picture: Apple's debut of the notch on 2017's iPhone X considerably reduced the screen space for items on the status bar. One of the more useful pieces of information available at a glance was the battery percentage indicator that Apple had to hide behind a swipe down for the Control Center. Now, the feature has returned in the latest dev build of iOS 16, albeit with a slightly tweaked implementation.

Apple has brought the battery level indicator back to the status bar of notched iPhones as part of iOS 16 beta 5. As on older models like the iPhone 7 and 8, the returning feature appears as a toggle under Settings > Battery. Interestingly, the option isn't available on all notched models, with beta testers reporting it missing on the iPhone XR, iPhone 11, and the iPhone 12/13 mini.

Apple has also changed how it shows the battery percentage indicator on compatible models. On older, notchless iPhones, the battery percentage appeared as a number with the percentage symbol alongside the battery icon that depleted or filled based on current battery level.

For those with newer iPhones (and battery anxiety), Apple's latest implementation sees just the figure displayed inside an always-filled battery icon. The latter only depletes (and turns red) when the battery level reaches 20 percent, as noted by an iOS developer.

Omg.. new battery indicator in iOS 16 Beta 5! pic.twitter.com/1RBvkw3Fs8  Brandon Butch (@BrandonButch) August 8, 2022

Moreover, this number also changes color with the background to maintain legibility. It turns white when the battery icon is black/green and becomes transparent/clear when the battery icon turns white. The execution isn't always successful, as The Verge's Victoria Song describes in her experience.

This feature's absence on the iPhone mini series is understandable, considering that a combination of a smaller screen with the notch would hinder readability. However, the iPhone XR and iPhone 11, despite their larger notches, still appear to have enough screen space to accommodate this feature. Perhaps the culprit on these models is their lower pixel density and lower contrast LCD screens which could have forced Apple to only make this feature available on hi-res, OLED iPhones.

The battery percentage indicator is currently part of the developer-only iOS 16 beta 5, with a more stable, public beta to follow soon. Apple's official iOS 16 release is scheduled for this fall and will expectedly bring an iPhone 14-exclusive always-on display mode, plus the ability to edit or unsend texts with Apple's Messages app, among other features.
In brief: Samsung is giving customers who pre-order a Galaxy Z Flip 4 or Z Fold 4 a special bonus: an NFT. While that's unlikely to incentivize most people, it does have some practical uses in the form of discounts at certain retailers.

Samsung has already used NFTs as a pre-order bonus for its devices; those who reserved a Galaxy S22 or Galaxy Tab S8 tablet ahead of time in South Korea were rewarded with a New Galaxy NFT. The non-fungible token will also be given to customers who pre-order a Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4. The foldables are being unveiled at the company's Unpacked event tomorrow, which you can watch live on TechSpot.

Unlike other NFTs, whose only benefits tend to be their resale value, the New Galaxy NFT offers non-digital goodies. SamMobile writes that Samsung has signed an MOU (memorandum of understanding) with several local companies that will give owners of the NFT in South Korea discounts and savings at Digital Plaza, Show Gold, The Shilla Duty Free Shop, and e-Cruise when the token is authenticated.

Most pre-order customers probably won't care about receiving an NFT as a bonus, but one that doubles as a discount card is a more appealing prospect. Unfortunately, it does seem that the offer will be limited to the South Korean market as Samsung hasn't said if it plans to offer the New Galaxy NFT bonus in other locations.

There is at least one pre-order offer that those in the US will definitely be able to enjoy. Samsung is giving up to $200 in Samsung Credit to those who reserve the Galaxy Z Fold 4 or Z Flip 4. The offer, available now, gives $100 for pre-ordering one of the phones or $200 for reserving a Galaxy Watch or Buds or bundling them with a Z Fold/Flip 4.

Last month saw what appear to be official renders of the new foldables leak online. As suspected, their designs differ little from the predecessors, with the internals and less obvious screen creases said to be the major upgrades. We also heard a rumor that Samsung will be dropping the "Z" part of the phones' names due to the letter's negative association with Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
What just happened? Governments around the globe are increasing pressure on Apple and Google to open up their mobile in-app payment rules. This week, South Korea is trying to demonstrate that its new "anti-Google" law has teeth by investigating both companies.

On Tuesday, the Korea Communications Commission (KCC) announced it is investigating Apple, Google, and the local One Store, for allegedly violating its app payment processor law. The South Korean regulator could charge the companies up to two percent of their average annual revenue.

Last summer, South Korea passed an "anti-Google" law which says app store regulators like Apple and Google can't force customers to use their in-app payment processors, from which they take sales cuts. Specifically, it bars the companies from unfairly delaying or refusing the review, registration, renewal, or inspection of mobile software that uses third-party payment processors.

Both platform holders have since technically complied with the new regulations but with strings attached. Apple warns that South Korean users who use third-party payment portals won't have the same customer guarantees Apple provides. The company also restricts features like Family Sharing and Ask to Buy parental controls to its payment processor.

Furthermore, Google and Apple still take a cut from third-party payments, albeit a reduced one. Apple's commission falls from 30 to 26 percent, while Google's decreases from 15 to 12 percent.

Google's commission has led to higher in-app purchase prices on Android apps in South Korea compared to other platforms. The KCC announced an investigation into Google's current policy in June, but now we know that investigation includes Apple and One Store  a Korean Android app platform. It remains to be seen whether fines can encourage the two mobile giants to alter their rules further.

The European Union's new Digital Markets Act includes a rule similar to the South Korean legislation. In response, Google made the same concessions in the EU as in South Korea, though only for non-gaming apps. Google is readying separate new rules for guidelines this fall.

However, Google still imposes its payment processor on Play Store apps in other regions. In a legal battle, Epic Games forced the company to temporarily rescind its threat to delist Epic's newest acquisition, Bandcamp.
Royal Australian Navy submarine HMAS Rankin is seen during AUSINDEX 21, a biennial maritime exercise between the Royal Australian Navy and the Indian Navy in Darwin, Australia, September 5, 2021. [Photo/Agencies]

By Zhang Yunbi

The Tenth Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, being held from Aug 1 to 26, is a crucial opportunity for the international community to restore the fundamentals of the global nuclear order. Especially, because the NPT has the largest membership of any arms control agreement191 state parties.

Although the once-in-five-year conference was delayed due to the lingering COVID-19 pandemic, it still serves as an alarm reminding the world of the need to prevent nuclear proliferation. That brings us to AUKUS(a security partnership among Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States), under which the UK and the US will help Australia acquire as many as eight nuclear-powered submarines.

The three countries issued a joint statement on Sept 15, 2021, announcing the establishment of AUKUS, catching the world by surprise not only because Australia had broken the contract with France to buy diesel-powered submarines for about $66 billion but also because two nuclear weapon states had pledged to help a non-nuclear weapon state to acquire nuclear-powered machinery, that is, submarines. That is a gross violation of the NPT as well as International Atomic Energy Agency rules.

According to researchers at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, the nuclear materials to be used to build the eight submarines would be enough to make 64 to 80 nuclear weapons.

All three AUKUS allies are signatories to the NPT, and yet they are undermining the treaty's authority and frustrating global efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation. That's also why the international communityespecially Australia's neighbors including Southeast Asian countriesare vehemently opposed to the tripartite deal.

The 10 ASEAN member states have been working to make Southeast Asia a nuclear weapons-free zone, just like the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty, signed in 1985 and enforced in 1986, has shielded the South Pacific region against nuclear proliferation.

But Australia's nuclear-weapon ambitions have considerably increased security pressure on smaller countries in the region, because they fear the AUKUS deal will intensify the arms race. As a matter of fact, shortly after the nuclear-powered submarine deal was announced, the ambassadors of several ASEAN states in Beijing visited the Chinese Foreign Ministry to express their common concern over AUKUS. As for China, it has been opposed to the sub deal ab initio.

Despite former Australian prime minister Scott Morrison of the Liberal Party losing the parliamentary election and Labor Party leader Anthony Albanese taking over as prime minister in May, Australia is going ahead with the AUKUS plan, and has spared no efforts, along with the UK and the US, in sugarcoating the controversial submarine deal. In fact, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said in June that according to the previous government's plan, the subs would be delivered by the 2040s, but the new administration "will be looking at every option available to try and bring that time forward".

"I think bringing that time forward to eight years from now would be extremely optimistic," Australian Broadcasting Corporation quoted Marles as saying.

Preparing for the NPT review conference at the UN Headquarters in New York City, the three countries have drafted a working document to defend their submarine deal. According to an unedited draft released on the US State Department website in July, the three sides have agreed that "Australia would be provided with complete, welded power units". In order to justify the plan further, the document said the three countries are willing to allow greater scrutiny by the IAEA.

Such paradoxical narratives don't change the nature of the submarine deal. And no matter how desperately the three countries try to cover their dirty deal with a legal or moral garb, the fact is that they are engaged in transferring and receiving weapons-grade nuclear materials and violating the NPT. Aside from Australia and the UK, the buyer and the seller, the US' role in this nuclear proliferation case calls for greater global scrutiny of its track record in this field since the end of World War II.

In 1994, during the initial stages of the DPRK developing nuclear weapons, Washington and Pyongyang reached an agreement in Geneva on the latter freezing its nuclear weapons plan in exchange for the US helping the DPRK develop civil-use nuclear facilities.

But Washington went back on its words and halted assistance to Pyongyang in the following years, intensifying the nuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Similarly, the Donald Trump administration's decision in 2018 to pull the US out of the Iran nuclear deal, which was signed by Iran, the five permanent UN Security Council members and Germany in 2015, dealt a serious blow to global nuclear nonproliferation efforts.

While Washington has been behind a major nuclear weapon material trafficking deal before, the ongoing review conference in New York gives the international community a great opportunity to hold the three countries to account. No matter how far the conference goes in this regard, no country should sit idle watching the dirty tripartite nuclear submarine deal go on.

The international community should make its voice heard, expose the three countries' conspiracy, and maintain the world order and boost global strategic stability.
Lucid Motors has recently revealed its Stealth Look for its Air electric vehicles that will be available starting this week, as reported by The Verge.

(Photo : by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images))

A model of the Lucid MultiCore Boost Charger for an electric luxury car is displayed at the Lucid Motors Inc. studio and service center on February 25, 2021 in Beverly Hills, California. - The California-based electric vehicle company announced this month that it plans to go public via a merger with a company that values it at $24 billion, with the pure-electric luxury sedan Lucid Air launching in 2021.

The Stealth Look is a subdued style with 35 new exterior design cues. What are the additions? - mirror caps, frames, and glass roof trim. Among noticeable changes are in the headlights and taillights.

You can even swap a platinum finish with the "dark Stealth Polished finish." According to the automaker, the goal is to add a darker and sporting personality to their full range of Air.

This new style will be available as an option for Air Grand Touring Performance, Air Grand Touring, and Air Touring. Also, depending on the model, the company offers 20-inch or 21-inch wheels with satin black inserts. You can also pair the new look with the exterior color that you want. Currently, the colors are limited to silver, white, black, gray, and red.

To get the Stealth Look, all you need to do is throw in $6,000 starting in the first quart of 2023. It will make its public debut on Aug. 17 at the Monterey Car Week at Motorlux.

Also read: Lucid Face EV Production Problems Due to Supply Chain-Will It Deliver Future Vehicles?

Fighting Despite Supply Chain Issues

Despite the fewer EV production this year, there are still good things to look forward to brought by this luxury electric vehicle maker. Recently, they announced that they would slash their production forecast this year due to supply chain constraints.

The company said it would revise its production expectations to 12,000 to 14,000 vehicles instead of the original prediction of 20,000 vehicles.

Still, the Newark, California-based company is confident in its ability to capture good opportunities ahead due to the technology they use and the strong demand for its vehicles.

The company, however, did not specify what supply issues were causing the problem. They also said that the number of reservations for their Lucid Air sedan is now over 25,000, which means they could have $2.4 billion in sales.

Since Feb. 28, the company has made 400 vehicles. 125 were already delivered to customers before the end of last year. The company has made over 300 deliveries to date.

Luxury Electric Vehicles For The Future

Lucid Motors is sure that the future is bright with the growing demand for luxury electric vehicles. They have just started fulfilling their commitments, and this should continue to fuel the rising attention.

People seem to be more open to green technology, which is a positive sign for the EV market. When a company can make good on its recent promises, the future is assured.

Customers can see the positive effects of their trust and confidence, which will mean a faster move toward the future.

Related article: Lucid Air EV to Raise its Prices Again by 13 Percent, Bringing the New Prices by Jun. 1 in Canada

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Written by April Fowell

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In response to reports of shelling at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station in southeast Ukraine, diplomats called for an end to fighting between the Russian and Ukrainian forces so that UN inspectors can visit the facility, according to a report by The Washington Post.

An attack on a nuclear plant would be "suicidal," according to UN chief Antonio Guterres, who also requested that inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog, are given entry to Zaporizhzhia.

Biggest Nuclear Facility in Europe

Several explosions struck the plant on Friday, resulting in damages and partially cutting off a reactor from Ukraine's power system. The facility houses six nuclear reactors and is considered the biggest of its kind in Europe. Fortunately, there was no radioactive leak reported.

The Russians currently control the complex, but according to Washington Post, it is still operated by Ukrainian staff.

IAEA director Rafael Grossi issued a statement over the weekend stating that the shelling increased the very real potential of a "nuclear disaster" that might endanger the environment and public health in Ukraine.

"Military action jeopardizing the safety and security of the Zaporizhzya nuclear power plant is completely unacceptable and must be avoided at all costs."

"Any military firepower directed at or from the facility would amount to playing with fire, with potentially catastrophic consequences," Grossi added.

He appealed to both conflicting forces to uphold "restraint" within the vicinity of the nuclear plant and condemned the "violent acts" that were deployed against the Zaporizhzya and its staff.

Read also: Is Iran Supporting Russia Against Ukraine as it Sends 'Armed Drones?' Here's What the White House Says

Russia and Ukraine Agree On IAEA Inspection

Both forces blamed each other for the explosions. Russia claims that Ukraine has carried out its strikes in the area, but Ukraine has also accused Moscow of using the facility as a shield for artillery and rocket attacks.

Moscow stated on Monday that it would permit IAEA inspectors access to the site, but it provided no information on how it would make this possible. The IAEA estimates that Ukraine's 15 operational reactors, six of which are in Zaporizhzhia, are responsible for nearly half of the nation's electricity.

Oleg Nikolenko, a spokesman for the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, also stated to The Washington Post that Kyiv is in favor of a U.N. team arriving at the nuclear facility.

However, experts suggest that the site must be demilitarized first before the inspection occurs.

But Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky also urged the international community to hold Russia responsible for the attack on the nuclear power plant.

Related Article: Chipmakers Face More Supply Issues Due to Russia's Sanction on Rare Gases - Is the Tech Industry in Deep Trouble?

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Neuralink's Winter Internship 2022 is now looking for software engineers to help the company work on its innovations.

(Photo : Photo by Andrew Burton/Getty Images)

A prototype mobile unit that could potentially be used to diagnosis traumatic brain injuries in the field, created by Brainscope, is seen at a press conference announcing Brainscope as one of the 16 winners of the first round of the $20M Head Health Challenge.

For those unfamiliar with this tech firm, Neuralink is a company that specifically works on brain interfaces.

This means that it aims to develop and manufacture devices that can help patients suffering from paralysis.

Co-founded by Elon Musk back in 2016, Neuralink is a fast-paced company working on neural interfaces that expand humans' abilities in various worldly situations.

Neuralink Winter Internship 2022

According to StartupJobs' official website, Neuralink is now looking for software engineers working with different teams in the company.

(Photo : Photo credit should read JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP via Getty Images)

A mannequin is fitted with a prototype of a "mental typewriter", which is an EEG (Electro Encephalogramme Measurement) Cap that processes electric impulses from the brain into commands for a computer at the Fraunhofer Institute for Computer Architecture and Software Technology.

Also Read: Elon Musk Notices this Deep Brain Stimulation Program-To Apply it for Neuralink?

These groups include BCI (Brain Computer Interface), Core Software, Robot, and Implant teams.

"You will have the opportunity to partner with our electrical, microfabrication, chip designers, neuro, and mechanical engineers," said Neuralink via its official job posting.

Applicants who will be able to enter the Neuralink Winter Internship 2022 are expected to enhance the tech firm's pathway to human-read brain-computer interfaces.

As of writing, it is unclear if the upcoming Neuralink internship program will lead to massive breakthroughs. If you are interested in applying, here are the requirements and other details you need to know.

How To Apply and Other Details

Applicants must work in the Neuralink offices in Austin, Texas, and Fremont, California.

If you are a software engineer living in these areas, then you can apply as a Neuralink applicant. But, you still need to have the following requirements:

Has experience in the application of technical skills outside of the classroom for more than nine months.

Has software engineering experience for more than three years.

Aside from these, below are additional qualifications Neuralink prefers you to have:

Familiarity with container management and orchestration

Familiarity with web application frameworks like Ruby on

Familiarity with Ruby, Python, and/or Javascript

Familiarity with C/C++/Rust

Rails or Django

Familiarity with HTML/CSS

Experience with infrastructure development

Now, if you have these, you can now click here to apply. Just follow the instructions provided once you are on Neuralink's official website.

Previous News:

Recently, many protesters urged Elon Musk to suspend his Neuralink animal tests.

Various experts claimed that Neuralink as a morbid obesity solution is possible.

For more news updates about Neuralink and other companies of Elon Musk, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: Elon Musk Offers Neuralink Job Opportunity to Smartwatch Employees-Will They Work on Morbid Obesity Solutions?

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Written by: Griffin Davis

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The demand for energy falls, but not the consumption of gas promised by the Government to Brussels: "They will comply, but not because of the measures"
Lara Nicholson writes for The Advocate as a Report for America Corps Member. Email her at lnicholson@theadvocate.com or follow her on Twitter @LaraNicholson_.

To learn more about Report for America and to support our journalism, please click here.
The Curse 

BritBox

Imagine an old-fashioned British crime caper  or a Guy Ritchie one  in which most of the characters are an order of magnitude dumber. It sounds like a recipe for a tiresome spoof, but this half-hour series quickly becomes a highly entertaining balance of comedy and drama  and more of a sincere homage than a satire.

Its a coming together of the talents that created and performed the cult comedy series People Just Do Nothing and King Gary, and it all goes down in the 1980s in a part of Londons East End that looks like a bomb site.

Stars of The Curse (L-R): Hugo Chegwin, Allan Mustafa, Emer Kenny and Tom Davis. Credit:Britbox

It was rough out there. The worst recession since the war. Thatcher had pulled the working class pants down but in the same breath filed down our conscience and replaced it with naked greed, explains the opening narration to the equally evocative sound of The Thes Uncertain Smile.
My advice is to work out your day rate  at a minimum what you make as a support worker and then some, since the work you do as a consultant will be quite different  and let the training provider know this is your fee for the day. If they decide not to use you, that is up to them. I expect that if you have a certain expertise they cant replicate, they will understand they will need to pay you to be there. You will then set the expectation with them and anyone else who wants to engage you with that you have a daily rate for your expertise. It is important you are paid and respected for the value you offer.

Ah, that old chestnut of networking opportunity. You should ask the government training provider if they are forgoing their wages on that day for the networking opportunity (only, just kidding, dont really ask that but you know what I mean!). There are rare occasions when the opportunity to do something far outweighs any payment you might receive. It does not sound like this is one of those opportunities.

I have been invited to attend a strategy workshop in an area where I have experience but is outside my day-to-day work. It is being run by a government training provider and the organisers expect me to contribute my ideas for free, even though they end up being used by others without acknowledgement. Most, if not all attendees will be paid directly or indirectly to attend the weekday event but as a Disability Support Worker with private clients, I will lose a days wages to attend. I have floated the option of consulting to the training provider but have been declined and they say this will be a good opportunity to network. I see no value in this and resent losing money and my ideas not being valued. How do I navigate this situation and respond in a way that will leave the door open for future involvement?

Each week, Dr Kirstin Ferguson tackles questions on the workplace, career and leadership in her advice column  Got a Minute?  This week, a question about being paid for attending a workshop, corporate box-ticking on NAIDOC week, and what to do when youre not happy with the pay rise you got.

My company emailed everyone about the NAIDOC week celebration, which I was looking forward to. Turns out the celebration was basically a table with non-Indigenous-inspired snacks and some materials explaining Indigenous culture. Our line manager did not know what to do and the whole thing was lacking to say the least. It reminded me of an International Womens Day celebration with pretty cupcakes and cute stickers  just another corporate box-ticking exercise with no substance to it. There could have been Indigenous speakers or the very least internal panel to discuss and bring awareness to the organisation. Why the lame effort for something so important? I would have much preferred if they just sent out an email and be done with it, instead of a disjointed and uninspiring celebration.

It is critically important we avoid turning NAIDOC week  or any other efforts to celebrate diversity and inclusion  into just another corporate box-ticking exercise, as you have identified. Sadly it sounds like your employer simply wanted to be seen to be doing something rather than taking the time to think through the purpose and meaning behind NAIDOC week.

Given the theme for NAIDOC week 2022 was Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up! I wonder whether your letter is the first step in that process and you have the opportunity now to pass on your feedback and suggestions to your employer for what can be done differently (and not just during NAIDOC week but every week). Does your employer have a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) or other ways to recognise and celebrate Indigenous employees or the Indigenous lands you work on? There are many resources available at naidoc.org.au you can also direct your line manager to if they are unsure of how to proceed.

I have been working in a business I really like for three years. The people and culture are great. I have recently been offered a promotion but the salary offer was quite disappointing compared to what I am paid now. I was only offered a few thousand dollars more but extra responsibility. To be honest I felt offended by the offer and have told the business owner but I dont think anything will change in that regard. Considering the market situation I am truly considering moving on. Should I approach them with a final counter offer and advise if that is not met at some point soon, should I be open to new opportunities?

I can understand your disappointment if, in your mind, you think the new role is worth a lot more. However, sometimes it can be short-sighted to move. The grass is definitely not always greener. You are working somewhere you love and you said the people and culture are great. That is worth something  maybe not money  but it is worth something for the moment. The other opportunity you have is to take on a promotion with extra responsibility. The experience you gain in your new role will help you down the track apply for and hopefully obtain jobs that might pay even more.
NSWs state architect warned senior bureaucrats that dumping draft rules for greener and more sustainable housing developments lacked sense, and said a powerful developers group was trying to circumvent the process by lobbying for Planning Minister Anthony Roberts to ditch the policy.

Roberts declared he had listened to the development industry when he scrapped his predecessor Rob Stokes draft rules, known as the Design and Place State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP), at an event run by developer group Urban Taskforce on April 6.

NSW state architect Abbie Galvin worked on the Design and Place SEPP for two years. Credit:Nic Walker

Environment groups have criticised the decision to abandon the draft SEPP, which required new developments to mitigate and adapt to the risks of climate change. They were part of a draft plan for all NSW buildings to operate at net zero emissions well before before 2050.

Urban Taskforce had fiercely opposed the draft SEPP as unworkable and inadequate when it was released in December, weeks before Roberts was given the portfolio in a reshuffle.
Police interview parents of baby who was found dead in Sydney home

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Private providers have taken over from two Melbourne councils to provide in-home aged care despite lacking the staff to service all the additional clients as low wages and poor conditions fail to attract workers.

Aged care giants Mecwacare and Bolton Clarke have taken on the in-home care of elderly residents after the Mornington Peninsula Shire and Boroondara councils stopped providing the services, leaving thousands of residents without care.

Private providers are failing to recruit staff for in-home aged care in Boroondara and the Mornington Peninsula. Credit:Virginia Star

More than 160 council employees were made redundant in Boroondara and the Mornington Peninsula Shire when the councils stopped providing in-home aged care services last month but only a handful of workers took on roles with the private providers. Mornington Peninsula Shire Councils in-home aged care contract is worth $6.7 million a year.

At Boroondara City Council, aged care staff were paid around $34 an hour, received a travel allowance to get to homes, and were paid to receive training and attend meetings.
I have read recent letters referring to the non-existent care by organisations that have taken over services provided by local councils. My mother is in the Latrobe Valley and has not had support since the handover to the new provider, Benetas (about four weeks ago).

Pamalee Matthews, Traralgon Seeking assistance, but no call from new provider I have been receiving help from Mornington Shire with cleaning for the past 6 years. I am a stroke victim and have very poor balance so cannot manage certain things like making the bed, vacuuming and cleaning the toilet. I have not heard from the new service, Mecwacare, so do not know what is happening. My daughter is helping but lives 90 minutes away, so I may have to shop around for alternate care. It is poor that I have not received even a phone call from Mecwacare.

Michael Chalinor, Somerville A shocking situation, but why are we surprised?

How unrealistic is it to expect 23 local authorities to outsource their home care at the end of the financial year and not encounter such a debacle? Many carers, who had established, long-term relationships with their clients, have been summarily dismissed or made redundant before their replacements could be recruited and trained, let alone become familiar with their clients particular needs. Irrespective of the merits or otherwise of privatisation, there is something seriously wrong with a system that produces such outcomes. Our oldest and our frailest deserve better.

Mike Sanderson, Drouin A futile hope that extra funds would go to wages It is imperative that aged care workers receive a significant pay rise. However, many providers are private businesses and multinational corporations. Do these large businesses expect a pay rise for their staff to be funded by the government? As the aged care royal commission final report noted: successive governments have made several failed attempts to improve staff wages by providing additional funds to providers in the hope that they would be passed on to aged care workers by way of increased wages. They were not.

Sarah Russell, director, Aged Care Matters

THE FORUM End the politicisation Anti-corruption chief calls for independent funding (The Age, 6/8) was music to my tired, old ears. I am a retired Commonwealth and Victorian public sector employee with over 40 years of experience. Robert Redlich QCs call is a necessary first step. And it should be extended to all anti-corruption bodies, including the Victorian Inspectorate and Victorian Ombudsman. Furthermore, IBACs powers should be expanded. If and when we get a federal ICAC, it should have the same funding and powers. These are crucial first steps to ending the politicisation of the public sector and a return of the proper boundaries between public servants and ministerial staff.

Others include a reimagining of the way departmental secretaries are hired and fired, and a reframing of the words frank and fearless advice in the Australian and the Victorian public services codes of conduct. This has been arguably the worst, and certainly the most insidious, form of corruption facing not just Australians, but Western democracies.

James Tucker, Greensborough The delightful Olivia ... In the late 70s I had a good friend who worked as a waiter at the famous Melbourne eatery, Maxims. He could not wait to tell me that he had served Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, who were in Australia promoting their film, Grease, while they dined in a private area. My friend described Newton-John as being even more beautiful and delightful in real life. He was particularly excited to inform me that he had finished off her half-eaten salad.

Peter Jurkovsky, Heidelberg ... was so down to earth

I had the pleasure of meeting Olivia Newton-John at a shopping mall in Los Angeles where she had a shop, Koala Blue. We chatted a while, then I asked for a photo with her. She declined, saying she looked ratty. She wasnt being difficult, she just did not think she looked good enough. Only an Aussie superstar would describe herself as ratty. A sad loss of a wonderful lady.

Geoff Lipton, Caulfield The bragging Aussies I do not know why people are getting super excited about Australia topping the gold medal tally, with 67, at the Commonwealth Games. Per capita, New Zealand absolutely smashed us with 20 gold medals from a population of little over 5million people. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie. No, No, No.

Ed Veber, Malvern East Where money should go The success of our heavily government-funded Commonwealth Games team illustrates the benefits of government expenditure. If only the government would spend up big on Australias impoverished and problematic health system. Time for change, please, Anthony Albanese.

Jennifer Grimwade, Richmond

Sadly, AFL hasnt changed Nick Edwards writes about the horrendous language and verbal aggression at last Fridays Collingwood-Melbourne match (Letters, 9/8). Many years ago I took my young son to an AFL match. I was horrified at the abuse screamed at the players and the umpires. No sportsmanship at all. We never went back.

Anna Davey, Ringwood End the booze culture Unfortunately, drunken boorish behaviour in the MCC members reserve is increasingly becoming commonplace. It is beyond time that the MCC committee took its responsible serving of alcohol commitments seriously and put standards above dollars.

Ian Maddison, Parkdale Toxic masculinity

One of the more disturbing aspects of the Adelaide Crows 2018 pre-season camp was that to be a man, one must be able to give and take verbal and physical abuse. And we wonder why male aggression is a problem in our society.

Gillian Humphries, Eltham Public, the safer option My heart goes out to Annie Moylans family (The Age, 8/8). The horror story of her last hours enforced my belief in Melbournes public hospitals. If you need a non-life-threatening procedure and enjoy a bit of luxury, this new wave of private hospitals may be for you. If you are really ill, head for one of our public hospitals where they have specialists, pathology on site or on call 24 hours a day.

Brendan Mitchell, Highett A chain of mistakes I disagree that the first mistake in the sequence of errors befalling Annie Moylan was the choice of the hospital, Holmesglen Private, she went to (Letters, 9/8). If a medical facility has an emergency department that cannot deal with serious illnesses, then it should not be accredited to run such a service.

The hospital needs to have a clear strategy to deal with illnesses that are beyond its scope of practice. Also, doctors working there have to know which patients can be safely managed and which need to be transferred. Giving a patient a label (gastroenteritis), prior to working out how sick they are, always ends badly. Transferring a dangerously ill patient to other than a tertiary-level emergency department was the final straw. The fundamental problem was allowing a system that masquerades as a serious medical facility to exist. This is a function of government for the safety of its citizens.

Geoff Sheahan, Wantirna South The hard path to success Your correspondent asks Where are the teals for the Victorian election (Letters, 8/8). If she wants a community-derived, independent candidate, she needs to start, or join, a Voices of ... movement in her electorate.

Then she can help to find what the community wants and help select a candidate that will represent those views. A lot of hard work by local communities went into the success of the independents at the federal election. It was not chance, luck or providence.

Simon Cameron, Hexham The worst of two evils The only reason the ALP will win the state election is that the opposition is a rudderless rabble and utterly unelectable. Dan Andrews should not kid himself, in any way, that a win will be an endorsement of his government. Given any sort of reasonable alternative he and his government would be run out of town on a rail  assuming it ever gets built.

Mark Morrison, Kew In a class of her own In Sarah Ferguson, the ABC has found todays perfumed steamroller (the nickname given to Jana Wendt) for her interviewing style on 7.30. If interviews were an Olympic sport, Sarah would definitely win gold. Forgive me for interrupting  magnificent.

Wendy Daniels, Hawthorn

Homes for the future I could not agree more with Future-proof your home and increase its value (The Age, 8/8). This upfront, extra spending on eco-friendly features could be encouraged by banks  eg, if you have a seven star environmental rating, then banks must offer lower rates as there is a lower risk from the increase in cost of living pressures (eg gas and electricity). If you have intergenerational living features, then options should kick in for a long-loan term. Valuers also need to put a higher premium on these features, recognising their long-term value.

Governments can help by requiring star ratings for all existing homes, including rentals, so they can be priced correctly. Otherwise we will have a legacy of houses which are not fit for purpose.

Kelly Reed, Kew High cost of opting out We recently disconnected from the gas supply, now we have received a bill for just short of $1000 for disconnection and removal of the meter. This is over the top and not a great incentive to opt out of gas, in addition to the cost of replacing appliances.

Cynthia OKeefe, Highton

Such a shameful record Oh China, China, China. You have stolen most of the South China Sea, all of Hong Kong and now you want Taiwan. With your poor political record, how dare you tell Australia how to behave.

Kay Gibson, Watsonia North Militarily neutral Taiwan Your correspondent (Letters, 8/8) asks why Taiwan is so important to China. Chinas concerns over Taiwan are quite easy to understand. It needs to know this strategically located island will remain, at the very least, militarily neutral in a crisis. The US has acted constantly in Taiwan to prevent that certainty  the niceties of committing to the agreed one-China policy aside. Were Taiwan to become a fully independent nation, there is no doubt the US and probably other nations would work ceaselessly to sell more arms and create more political tensions.

Mark Freeman, Macleod

Listen to the people Suzette Miller (Letters, 9/8), you are not alone in your search for open, green space. Hundreds of homes nearby are displaying placards objecting to government theft of their schools green open space for netball stadiums and car parking. Residents of Parkdale display their objections to the vast concrete expanses of SkyRail, destroying their environment. Across Hampton we see save our suburbs signs but councils and our Labor government have just one imperative  a high-density dystopia. Goldstein supposedly found its voice in independent Zoe Daniel, but what irony: we need an extra layer of representation across all layers of government, a voice, to beg those we have elected to actually serve our best interests or represent us.

Ronald Elliott, Sandringham No fun and games, sadly

When the FBI raided Donald Trumps home at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, it gave the former president advance notice so (sadly) there was no need to bust down any doors.

John Hughes, Mentone AND ANOTHER THING Credit:Illustration: Matt Golding People I cant imagine Alan Joyce ditching the designer suit for the yellow vest of a baggage handler. Id like to see that.

Margaret Sullivan, Caulfield North

Archie. Judith. Olivia. Three wonderful music artists, three magnificent human beings.

David Johnston, Healesville I wonder if your correspondent, who suggests we persevere with reading a book, has read Ulysses.

Louise Burton, Tullamarine Politics To wear a tie or not wear a tie. If that is the question, there is something wrong in the state of Denmark, oops, Australia.

Luise Mock, Tawonga South Better to have a democratic China than a communist Taiwan.

James Curtis, Chelsea

Great article, Sean Kelly (8/8). A call to focus on meaningful government policy, not petty gotchas from us all.

Don Stewart, Port Fairy The referendum should take in three issues: the Voice, the republic and four-year federal parliamentary terms.

Howard Brownscombe, Brighton May I suggest a spurn of former PMs.

Barry Davies, Eltham Furthermore The only winners in privatised home care are the businesses and executives. Just watch those profits and incomes soar.

David Eames-Mayer, Balwyn
Queensland mining billionaire Clive Palmer has labelled a report he intends to launch a new $50 million legal action against Western Australias premier and attorney-general as rubbish and bullshit.

Palmer took to the airwaves on Tuesday in a minute-long interview and addressed a story in the states daily newspaper The West Australian, which said correspondence from his lawyer to the state government last week indicated he would use Australian consumer law to sue the two politicians.

Queensland mining billionaire Clive Palmer. Credit:AAP

The billionaire has been involved in a high-profile defamation case with WA Premier Mark McGowan which resulted in Palmer being awarded just $5000 and the premier $20,000 last Tuesday.

Federal Court Justice Michael Lee found Palmer and McGowan defamed each other during a war of words in July and August 2020 over WAs hard border and the states decision to introduce extraordinary legislation to block a $30 billion damages claim over a stalled iron ore project.
As Beijing announced that it would continue its military manoeuvres around Taiwan without any end date as its forces prepare for joint encirclement of the island, a senior US official has said that the Taiwan crisis is not yet over.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will continue to pile pressure onto the self-governing territory while China goes through a difficult time at home, the US Deputy Secretary of State, Wendy Sherman, told The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age in an interview.

A Peoples Liberation Army member watches military exercises, with Taiwans frigate Lan Yang in the background. Credit:Xinhua

After four days of military exercises that forced the diversion of some commercial shipping and aviation, Chinas Eastern Military Command on Tuesday stated that it would extend its operations into a new phase.

The next drills were for its forces to prepare for joint defence and joint encirclement of Taiwan, it said in a statement. The Peoples Liberation Army forces deployed 39 air force planes in and around the Taiwan Strait on Monday, of which 21 entered Taiwans air defence zone, according to Taiwans Defence Ministry. It said 13 mainland naval vessels were deployed.
New York: Top Republicans and prominent conservatives have reacted with outrage to the news that the FBI had searched Mar-a-Lago, the private residence of Donald Trump, with some suggesting that federal agents should be arrested and others hinting that the court-approved law-enforcement action against the former US president was pushing the country towards political chaos.

Ive seen enough, Kevin McCarthy, the House minority leader, wrote in a statement that he posted online. The Department of Justice has reached an intolerable state of weaponised politicisation.

How dare they! Jupiter resident Kathy Luksch stands with others gathered to support Donald Trump near Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida. Credit:The Palm Beach Post/AP

Hinting at a possible congressional investigation into the sitting attorney-general if Republicans take control of the House after the midterm elections, McCarthy added: Attorney-General Garland, preserve your documents and clear your calendar.

The attacks on the search of Trumps beachfront domain in southern Florida continued a long-standing reflex among his supporters to assail federal law-enforcement officials as biased and corrupt.
Taiwan calls on international community for more support as China continues military drills

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When bestselling author Jodi Picoult set out to adapt her YA novel Between the Lines into a musical, she was trying to locate two unicorns.

At least that's how she described her search to find a female songwriting team. She soon learned that such teams are still a relative rarity in the theater world. (To date, only one all-female songwriting team has won the Best Score Tony Award.)

Like the novel by Picoult and her daughter Samantha Van Leer, the musical Between the Lines (currently playing off-Broadway at the Tony Kiser Theater) tells the story of 17-year-old Delilah McPhee who finds solace in her favorite fairytale  and in its handsome prince  as her own world threatens to fall apart.

"Because ultimately this is a coming-of-age story for a teenage girl, I felt that female songwriters who had experienced some of what Delilah had would be able to write from a place of understanding in a way that a man might not," Picoult explained.

Jodi Picoult and her daughter, Samantha Van Leer, attend the opening night of Between the Lines.

( Rebecca J Michelson)

Fortuitously Picoult connected with Kate Anderson and Elyssa Samsel. The three songs they wrote for her on spec are still in the musical. ("Between the Lines," "Allie McAndrews," and "A Whole New Story" are available to stream on Spotify.) "It's a testament to their talent and their connection to the material" Picoult said. She had found her unicorns.

Between the Lines is a female-driven show with an unusual number of women on its creative team and many strong female characters onstage. Writers Samsel, Anderson, and Picoult, as well as performer Julia Murney, recently shared their experiences working on this new musical and reflected upon what it means to tell stories by women and about women  especially at this moment in time.

From their first encounter with the novel, Samsel and Anderson related strongly to the story's themes of friendship, family, and self-empowerment. They appreciated how Delilah ultimately learns that she does not need her prince to save her; she can save herself.

And how did they make Picoult and Van Leer's story sing?

According to Samsel, they always knew they wanted to build two different musical worlds that would come together by the end of the show to "create a joint genre." The songwriters, who work in tandem to craft both music and lyrics, drew inspiration for the fairy tale world from classic Disney sounds. In contrast, the songs for Delilah's high school are infused with a Taylor Swift-style pop sensibility.

Kate Anderson, Jodi Picoult, Timothy Allen McDonald, Samantha Van Leer, and Elyssa Samsel attend the opening night of Between the Lines.

( Rebecca J Michelson)

The songwriters had always wanted to give the score a joyful sound, but that intention took on more significance when the production's spring 2020 opening was postponed due to the pandemic. Now, they hope their score will "make people feel joy again and welcome them back into the theater and into their lives."

For the past eight years, Samsel and Anderson have worked alongside producer Daryl Roth, book writer Timothy Allen Macdonald, and director Jeff Calhoun to bring Between the Lines to the stage. Picoult and Roth served as role models to Samsel and Anderson throughout the development process. "We have so much gratitude for Daryl and Jodi, for pointing the way and teaching us how to own our place in the room," said Anderson.

The songwriters set a tone in the room that was open, respectful, and collaborative. On the first day of rehearsal, Murney, who does double duty as Delilah's mother Grace and the fairytale queen, found herself restructuring one of her songs with Samsel and Anderson.

"We changed up some melodic lines and then also dealt with some lyrics changes that helped tell the story better," she said. "They were so open to that, which is such a complete high for me, to feel like I get to be a part of it."

The writers were thrilled to have Murney's creative input. "When you're lucky enough to get to work with actors of that caliber, you learn so much about how they end up inspiring the work itself," said Anderson.

Additionally, Murney found that being in a room with "so many women in a position of creative power" felt especially "safe" in this instance. There is something special, she noted, about telling a story about "a young girl that is written by people who have gone through the world of being a young girl."

Even when women are onstage, the female perspective is often missing from creative teams. Picoult observed that musicals have historically been told "through a white, cis male gaze." Despite recent "incremental inching toward diverse stories in theater," she believes "women's stories  by and about women  are still rare."

Jake David Smith and Arielle Jacobs appear in the new musical Between the Lines at Second Stage Theatre.

( Matthew Murphy)

There are relatively few shows with smart teenage girls as protagonists. And even fewer that depict the type of nuanced relationship Delilah has with her mom. Or, on a lighter note, the jokes about menopause and bra straps.

"We don't often get an authentic view of that mother-daughter relationship and female-to-female relationships in general. We really wanted to represent what felt real," said Anderson.

"I think that's something that they calibrated really beautifully," Murney said, clarifying that Calhoun and McDonald were an important part of crafting the mother/daughter dynamic too. "For the mom and the daughter, you have to squeeze into the scenes just the right amount of exposition, the right amount of character development."

Samsel and Anderson found it slightly surreal to musicalize the story's mother-daughter relationship when the mother and daughter who wrote the original source material were often present in the rehearsal room.

"It was really magical to be able to watch that relationship between Jodi and Sammy, to see what it looks like when a mother and a daughter do come together, and join up as a team," said Samsel.

In the show, Delilah realizes that she can become the protagonist of her story. Murney believes Delilah's journey has a universal message. "Hopefully everyone can see a part of themselves, if not physically onstage, textually onstage."

Given the current zeitgeist, the idea of a young woman taking control of her story feels more poignant and necessary than ever.

"I hope that people leave feeling empowered," Anderson said, "feeling like even the smallest step forward can change their lives.

On the day the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Picoult gave the postshow curtain speech at Between the Lines. She made a point of thanking the audience. "Knowing that 300 people had bought a ticket to a show about a teenage girl's dreams and fears and hopes was so validating, to me, and reminded me that there are still people in America who believe women matter."
Three new Wyoming Game and Fish Department game wardens were honored recently for their outstanding performance at the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy Peace Officer Basic Course in Douglas.

Game Wardens Elise Huysman, Gavin Dougherty and Jesse Niemeir graduated July 28 from the 14-week course with a number of special recognitions.

Huysman received the Honor Graduate award, which is the highest award bestowed on an officer while attending the Peace Officer Basic Course. Huysman was selected by the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy instructional staff, who honor one officer in each class for performing in a superior manner in all phases of training and who exhibited all the essential qualities and attributes of a professional peace officer. Originally from Connecticut, Warden Huysman will be stationed in the Laramie Region.

Dougherty was recognized for his firearms proficiency, posting perfect scores on both the pistol and rifle courses. He was one of four students nominated for the Honor Graduate award. Dougherty also received the top academic award for achieving the highest cumulative score on all written examinations given during the course. Hailing from New Jersey, Warden Dougherty will be stationed in the Green River Region.

Niemeir was given the physical fitness award for earning the highest cumulative score on the final fitness assessment. Originally from Montana, Warden Niemeir will be stationed in the Laramie Region.

Elise, Gavin and Jesses performance at the academy is commendable, said Rick King, chief game warden. Were proud to have them join the departments wildlife law enforcement team. These are the caliber of folks who we strive to recruit to Game and Fish to serve the public and protect Wyomings wildlife.

Its a requirement that all game wardens attend the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy for training. The Peace Officer Basics Course is 605 hours of instruction on topics such as constitutional law, search and seizure, emergency vehicle operations, custody and control and firearms. Upon graduation from the academy, wardens complete additional training from Game and Fish.

Game and Fish recruits new wardens annually and will begin accepting applications this year on Oct. 1.

Applicants must have earned a bachelors degree  or will receive their degree by June 1, 2023  in wildlife management, range management, biology, zoology, ichthyology or other closely-related fields. Other bachelors degrees may be considered with at least 20 hours of wildlife-related coursework detailed on transcripts.
Head of Mission and Force Commander of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Major General Aroldo Lazaro Saenz reviews the Chinese peacekeepers at the barracks of the Chinese peacekeeping force under the UNIFIL in the city of Tyre in Southern Lebanon on August 3, 2022. (Photo by Kong kangyi/Xinhua)

By Kong Kangyi and Li Zhulin

BEIRUT, Aug. 4 -- The 20th and 21st Chinese peacekeeping forces to Lebanon held a ceremony of force command handover in the barracks of the Chinese peacekeeping force in the city of Tyre in Southern Lebanon on August 3, local time.

More than 160 persons attended the event, including Head of Mission and Force Commander of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Major General Aroldo Lazaro Saenz, Chinese Ambassador to Lebanon Qian Minjian, representatives from the Lebanese military and government, and the Chinese peacekeepers.

At the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Lazaro reviewed the Chinese peacekeeping troops, then took the United Nations flag from Ye Fangchao, commander of the 20th Chinese peacekeeping force to Lebanon, and handed it over to Yan Xiaoliang, commander of the 21st Chinese peacekeeping force, marking the successful troop rotation and force command handover of the two batches of Chinese peacekeeping force.

Maj. Gen. Lazaro applauded the contributions made by the Chinese peacekeepers to the peace and stability in Southern Lebanon. He said that the members of the 20th Chinese peacekeeping force have effectively boosted the realization of the UNIFILs goal of maintaining a calm and stable environment, their efforts have made a substantial and positive impact on the local people.

Since officially assuming duties in August 2021, the 20th Chinese peacekeeping force to Lebanon has completed with high standards the tasks of mine clearance and explosive disposal, engineering construction, medical rescue and humanitarian assistance. All 410 members were awarded the UN medal of peace.

As the replacement, the 21st Chinese peacekeeping force to Lebanon has a total of 410 members, consisting of a 180-member multi-role engineering contingent, a 200-member construction engineering contingent and a 30-member medical contingent. The first echelon composed of 205 peacekeepers arrived in Lebanon on July 28, the second echelon is scheduled to set out from China in early August.

The 20th and 21st Chinese peacekeeping forces to Lebanon hold a ceremony of force command handover in the barracks of the Chinese peacekeeping force in the city of Tyre in Southern Lebanon on August 3, 2022. (Photo by Kong kangyi/Xinhua)
Honey, a bottlenose dolphin, is seen at the abandoned Inubosaki Marine Park Aquarium in Choshi, Japan, on Aug. 15, 2018. (PEACE/Handout via Reuters)

2 Swimmers Attacked by Dolphin in Japan, Suffer Minor Injuries

Two swimmers in Japan suffered minor injuries after being attacked by a dolphin, the latest in a series of incidents that prompted authorities to warn beachgoers against approaching the mammals.

The Fukui Coast Guard Station said Monday that it received a call at about 11:40 a.m. on Aug. 7 about a 39-year-old woman and a 50-year-old man being attacked by a dolphin at a beach in Fukuis Ayukawa district.

The woman was swimming about 15 meters offshore when a dolphin slammed her back. The dolphin bit her on her left palm and wrist when she attempted to return to the beach, The Asahi Shimbun reported, citing coast guard officials.

The second swimmer, who was not far from the woman, tried to help her by driving away the dolphin, resulting in him being bitten on the palm of his right hand and his left elbow.

The dolphin kept on poking him with its snout when he tried to return to the beach until the man kicked it away. The man required three stitches to his right hand as a result of the attack.

Japanese authorities have previously warned swimmers not to approach dolphins after receiving reports of people being bitten by the mammals.

Authorities installed warning signs saying Never Touch Dolphins at Koshino beach, where a number of people have been attacked by a dolphin lately. Officials also plan to install devices that emit ultrasonic sound waves on some beaches in an attempt to drive the marine mammals away from the beach, The Asahi Shimbun reported.

Tetsuya Matsuoka, manager of the Notojima Aquarium in Nanao in the neighboring Ishikawa Prefecture, said dolphins inhabit a range of waters around Japan, according to The Asahi Shimbun.

People have this image of dolphins as cute creatures, but they are wild animals after all, said Matsuoka. You should not go near them or touch them because they have sharp teeth.
The logo of Amazon is seen at the company's logistics center in Bretigny-sur-Orge, near Paris, on Dec. 7, 2021. (Gonzalo Fuentes/Reuters)

A Surveillance Company: Rights Group Sounds Alarm After Amazon Acquires iRobot

Amazons $1.7 billion (A$2.4 billion) acquisition deal for iRobot, the creator of Roomba robot vacuums, will give the e-commerce giant another avenue to collect personal information if nothing is done to protect it, Digital Rights Watch warned.

On Friday, both companies announced they had entered into a definitive merger in an all-cash transaction.

Digital Rights Watch, a non-profit advocacy group, noted that the acquisition comes shortly after Amazon purchased health care company One Medical in July, which would allow the incorporation of health data into its existing artificial intelligence products such as Alexa.

Roombas have a function that collects, creates, and uploads detailed maps of peoples homes, allowing extra functions such as only cleaning a specific room.

Such information will now be available to Amazon, along with the other wealth of information it collects.

Call to Protect Privacy

The rights advocacy group called on the Australian government to tighten privacy laws amid the current Privacy Act review to protect large companies from collecting more personal data.

At its core, Amazon is a surveillance company. Amazon protects its market power and profitability by using its scale to build detailed profiles on millions of people and uses that to predict market trends and manipulate user behaviour, Digital Rights Watch Executive Director James Clark said in a media release.

This acquisition isnt about selling robot vacuums, this is so Amazon can gather even more information about our lives and our homes.

We should be concerned that any company can have this much information about how we live our lives. Amazon knows a lot about us, and we know very little about them; that kind of asymmetry of power is very concerning for our rights and democracy.

Roomba robot vacuums made by iRobot are displayed on a shelf at a Bed Bath and Beyond store in Larkspur, California, on Aug. 5, 2022. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Clark said personal information should not be treated as an asset for trading and that there should be a limit on how companies can use and share it.

Imagine a future where Amazon could combine data about your living situation from Roomba, your purchasing habits from Amazon, and your viewing habits on Prime video to determine your risk profile to adjust your insurance premiums, he said.

An Amazon spokesperson told The Epoch Times that protecting customer data has always been incredibly important to the company and it believes it has been very good stewards of data.

Customer trust is something we have worked hard to earnand work hard to keepevery day, the spokesperson said.

We use customer data to improve customers experiences with our products and services and to support our partners; we dont sell customer data to third parties or use customer data for purposes that customers havent consented to.

Roomba is the most popular home robot vacuum of choice for consumers, giving iRobot 75 percent market share for robot vacuums according to industry database Statistica.

As such, competition issues of Amazons market dominance have also been raised in Washington, with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan already pursuing an antitrust review into Amazons previous purchase of One Medical.

Caden Pearson contributed to this report.
After Raid, Trump Determined to Straighten This Country Out: Graham

Former President Donald Trump is determined to fix the United States after his residence was raided by the FBI, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said on Aug. 9.

President Trump is determined, now more than ever, to straighten this country out, Graham, the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, told reporters at a press conference in South Carolina after speaking with the former president.

FBI agents went to Mar-a-Lago, Trumps resort in Florida, on Monday.

It remains unclear why the search warrant was executed, though Trump family members and lawyers have said the goal was to see whether Trump possessed any documents that should have been handed over when he left office.

Graham was among the Republicans decrying the raid, noting that the FBI was also in charge of the counterintelligence investigation against Trumps 2016 campaign that hinged in part on a document paid for by the campaign of Hillary Clinton, who was Trumps rival for the presidency at the time.

What did I learn from the Mueller investigation? The FBI when it comes to Trump has lost their way. This unending desire to destroy Trump and his family is frustrating for us, Graham said, referring to the probe into Trump and Trump associates by special counsel Robert Mueller, which uncovered no collusion between the campaign and Russia.

A separate review, conducted by the Department of Justice Inspector Generals Office, found serious errors and omissions in applications the FBI lodged for warrants to spy on Carter Page, a Trump campaign associate.

Kevin Clinesmith, an FBI lawyer, admitted in court to manipulating an email from the CIA to state that Page was not an asset when the original version said he was.

Clinesmith avoided jail time and kept his law license.

The FBI also relied in part on the dossier compiled by ex-British spy Christopher Steele, a Clinton supporter, in its investigation of Trump and Trump-linked figures. Clintons campaign and the Democratic National Committee funded Steeles work.

The FBI has said it changed practices following the watchdog review, and has disciplined, terminated, and reassigned a number of officials involved in the investigation.

Trump said in a statement that the raid was performed unannounced, despite how he had been cooperating with government agencies. He described what happened as the weaponization of the Justice System. The FBI has declined to comment and the Department of Justice has not returned an inquiry, while the White House said it was not notified of the raid before it happened.

Trump, Graham said, is going to push through this.

Ive talked to him twice today, he said. And I told him that theres legal systems in his country, avail yourself of it, and time will tell as to whats going on.
Amid Shortage of Ontario School Board Trustee Candidates, Trustees and Educators Bemoan Climate of Fear, Censorship

Candidate shortages are an opportunity for change, one trustee says

Nominations close on Aug. 19 for the Ontario school board trustee elections, but many school districts are finding themselves short of candidates.

Some trustees and early-childhood educators say a lack of respect for the position and a heated political climate within the provinces school boards are serving as deterrents both to existing trustees seeking re-election and to newcomers considering signing up to run.

The cases of teacher Carolyn Burjoski and trustee Mike Ramsey are two examples.

Burjoski had been an elementary school teacher for over 20 years when she was silenced and barred from speaking to her students in January after expressing concern to the board of trustees that the districts school libraries contained sexually suggestive books that were potentially harmful for children.

Mike Ramsey, one of the trustees present when Burjoski made her comments during a meeting of the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) on Jan. 24, demanded afterwards that the boards chairperson, Scott Piatkowski, apologize for his treatment of Burjoski. Piatkowski refused.

The board later voted on a motion to suspend Ramsey from attending meetings until Sept. 30 for breaching the trustee code of conductalthough it did not specify the nature of his breach. The motion passed 63.

Instances like this reach far beyond the WRDSB. A trustee on another Ontario school board (OSB), who wishes to remain anonymous to protect her position, says that in her 20 years on the board, shes noticed a shift from traditional values to liberal ideologies within Ontario schoolsand a decline in freedom of speech on the board.

Theyre always trying to cancel people who dont agree with them, she said in an interview. Its like people have lost their reason and theyre not looking at things like they should.

As of late July, the Waterloo District, to name just one, had very few candidates running for vacant trustee positions. Two of the districts regions had no candidates at all signed up to run for positions on both the Catholic and French-language boards, CBC reported.

CBC also reported that few people had signed up to run for vacant positions in Guelphs Upper Grand District School Board and the Wellington Catholic District School Board.

Trustee nominations are due by Aug. 19 and the lack of candidates could leave gaping holes in some boards. The Upper Grand District School Board needs to fill a total of 10 empty trustee seats, the York Region District School Board needs to fill 12, and the Toronto District School Board needs to fill 22, according to Ontarios School Board Elections website.

The Epoch Times sought comment from the WRDSB but was referred to the board of trustees. The Epoch Times asked board chair Piatkowski why some may be discouraged from running for election to the board, but didnt hear back.

We All Feel Alone

Kathi Smith, one of Ramseys colleagues on the WRDSB, said she will not seek re-election this fall because she felt under attack for expressing her opinions about whats best for students, CBC reported in July.

Smith isnt the only one feeling this way. The OSB trustee said she feels alone in her efforts to maintain traditional values and policies within her district.

Its always a battle when you want to bring in traditional viewpoints, she said.

The trustee spoke about her concern that many school boardsboth public and Catholicare abandoning their traditional foundations. but said trustees who are willing to speak up are scarce.

Theres a few of us [like-minded trustees] across Ontario and we all feel alone, she said.

A registered early-childhood educator (ECE) in the Huron-Superior District School Board, who also wished to remain anonymous, told The Epoch Times that her freedom of opinion has been directly challenged in the past by her districts administration.

During a mandatory meeting for all district staff members in 2020, administration gave a presentation claiming that the concept of white privilege was inherently true. The ECE challenged the presentation with the principal of the school where the meeting took place, but was immediately shut down.

He said that if I worked for the board, then I better make sure that I subscribed to all of their belief systems, she said.

I argued, saying Im an independent thinker and that Im not going to subscribe to something just because they tell me that I have to. That argument didnt go any further than between him and I, but he basically, in a roundabout way, threatened my position.

Its Time to Man Up

Teresa Pierre, president of the Ontario education activism group Parents As First Educators, told The Epoch Times that many people are afraid of running for the job of trustee because of the heated political climate in the provinces school boards.

The fear that their free speech will be cancelled by the woke party has people afraid to run, she said. Its making people afraid to speak in meetings and its making them afraid of the repercussions.

The anonymous Huron-Superior ECE said shes not in the least surprised that some school boards are struggling to find candidates.

Anyone who tries to preserve tradition and keep to the truth is ousted and persecuted, and so I think people are afraidtheyre genuinely afraid but also completely exhausted, she said.

But parents should see the current lack of trustee candidates in some districts as a wake-up call and an opportunity to take back charge of their childrens education, the ECE said.

I think this is going to be a major wake-up call for parents. If they want any sort of say in the direction that their childs education takes, then they better see this as a three-alarm fire. They have to get involved.

For Pierre, the candidate shortages represent a now-or-never opportunity to change Ontario public education for the better.

Its time to man up, she said. Because if we dont, it will only get worse and the repercussions are going to be visited on our children.

The trustee elections will take place on Oct. 24.

Correction: Two quotes in this article by Teresa Pierre, president of Parents as First Educators, and the anonymous Huron-Superior ECE were misattributed. Additionally, Teresa Pierre is not an ECE with the Huron-Superior District School Board. The Epoch Times regrets the errors.
Another Vicious Assault of a Woman Caught on Camera, Repeatedly Run Over by a Car

Following the assault of four young women at a barbecue restaurant in Tangshan, China, another brutal incident involving a woman happened in the same city. A video showing a local man repeatedly running over a woman in a parking lot has gone viral and sparked public outrage.

On August 2, a number of videos posted on social media showed that in an open-air parking lot in Guzhi District of Tangshan, a woman in white lay motionless on the ground, while a man in a white car repeatedly runs over her. Bystanders dragged her closer to a row of parked cars to avoid being run over again.

However, the white car accelerated towards her again and the bystanders hurriedly got out of the way. In order to have enough space to continue to run over the woman, the white car pushed a car out of the parking spot, and then kept turning in circles and backing up, running over the woman at least four times, before finally fleeing the scene.

A man in China repeatedly ran over a woman causing her death in Tangshan, Hebei Province, on Aug. 2, 2022. (Screenshot via NTDTV)

After the video went viral, Tangshan police issued a statement, saying that the victim, a woman surnamed Wang, was working in a local swimming pool nearby and had a row with her boyfriend surnamed Zhang in the parking lot. Then Zhang ran her over with his car, and nearby residents and security guards came to her rescue and pulled her aside. However, Zhang continued to drive in a circle and crushed the woman to death.

The police announced that the incident happened on the morning of Aug. 2, Zhang was arrested that afternoon, and the details of the case are still under investigation.

Public Suspicion and Outrage

However, after the incident at a barbecue restaurant on June 10, where four women were beaten by a group of men belonging to a gang, the police, officials, and media have lost their credibility with the public. After the incident, the local authorities issued several contradictory statements about the case, and were suspected of covering up the truth, while the womens whereabouts and whether they are alive or dead are still unknown. Many questions remain unanswered, and the local police chief was accused by the public of being involved with the local gang.

Chinese netizens posted their suspicions about the accuracy of the official statement about the woman being run over, questioning the couple quarreling narrative and saying it may be a cover-up of another more sinister case, or even a gang-related homicide.

Many internet users on Chinese social media are shocked by the brutality of the incident. One said in a post, Is that blood on the ground? Isnt it way too cruel? Another said, Its obviously an intentional homicide! He must be severely punished! Another post read, Too many vicious incidents have happened, and the authorities should do something about it.

The video also triggered a public outcry on Twitter. One person said: The living environment of Chinese women is very bad. Such great hatred, the bystanders tried to save the woman but still couldnt stop the crazy driver.

Another said: Now in China, everyone has so much inexplicable hatred in their hearts. Its out of control.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas, Texas on Aug. 6, 2022. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Appeals Court Rules in Favor of Democrat Effort to Obtain Trump Tax Returns

The Democrat effort to obtain six years of former President Donald Trumps tax returns has a legitimate legislative purpose that is not clearly unconstitutional, a federal appeals court ruled on Aug. 9.

Trump and his lawyers have said that the request, from Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.), exceeds the investigative powers of Congress. The appeals court panel found that the request articulates a clear legislative purpose on a matter which legislation could be had, the Presidential Audit Program, as well as possible legislation that would help IRS workers conducting the presidential audits.

The Chairman has identified a legitimate legislative purpose that it requires information to accomplish. At this stage, it is not our place to delve deeper than this. The mere fact that individual members of Congress may have political motivations as well as legislative ones is of no moment, the panel said in a 29-page ruling.

It also rejected arguments from Trump that the request violated separation of powers, or separation between the branches of the U.S. government, ruling that Trump failed to demonstrate a burden that would outweigh the Committees need for the requested information.

Neals request, first made in 2019 and re-submitted in 2021 after President Joe Biden took office, asks for six years of Trumps returns, starting the year before Trump took office.

The U.S. Department of Treasury, citing a Department of Justice legal opinion, refused to comply with the initial request. But the Department of Justice reversed course in 2021, finding the new request was valid. The Treasury Department, which includes the IRS, then said it would comply.

Trump and others sued.

U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden, a Trump appointee, turned down the suit, saying the intent to review the Presidential Audit Program was valid even as he acknowledged that public statements from Democrats indicate they will make public Trumps returns after acquiring them.

The appeals court panel on Tuesday upheld McFaddens ruling.

Trumps lawyers did not respond to requests for comment.

House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal (D-Mass.) speaks in Washington on Oct. 26, 2021. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Neal Cheers Ruling, Which Is Put on Hold

With great patience, we followed the judicial process, and yet again, our position has been affirmed by the Courts. Im pleased that this long-anticipated opinion makes clear the law is on our side. When we receive the returns, we will begin our oversight of the IRSs mandatory presidential audit program, Neal, the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, said in a statement.

The panel said it expected to receive the returns immediately, but the appeals court entered a seven-day hold on the order to give Trumps team time to file a petition to rehear the case, or for the full court to take it up.

The panel consisted of judges David Sentelle, a Reagan appointee; Karen LeCraft Henderson, a George H.W. Bush appointee; and Robert Wilkins, an Obama appointee.

Henderson, in a concurring opinion, expressed concern about Congress harassing a president in order to pressure him into taking certain actions.

I do not believe this concern can be dismissed so casually as a mere possibility, she said, pointing out how the Supreme Court in a similar cause said that a congressional demand may aim to harass the President or render him complaisan[t] to the humors of the Legislature' and how the Democrat-led House Oversight Committee made known while Trump was in office that it would keep investigating him, regardless of whether he won the 2020 election.

Although we cannot know the extent to which the requests and investigations influencedor were intended to influencePresident Trumps conduct while in office, it is not far-fetched to believe that such intrusive inquiries could have a chilling effect on a Presidents ability to fulfill his obligations under the Constitution and effectively manage the Executive Branch, Henderson said, adding later that a more searching inquiry into the burdens imposed by the Committees request is warranted given the core constitutional principle at issue.
Attorney Subpoenas Governor Whitmer to Testify in Michigan Abortion Law Case

Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, has been subpoenaed to testify in the lawsuit she brought to permanently enjoin enforcement of the states strict abortion trigger law.

The statute was passed in 1931 and was the law of the state until rendered moot by the U.S. Supreme Court in its 1973 Roe v. Wade decision.

The law makes it a felony, punishable by up to four years in prison, for a doctor to perform an abortion in Michigan, except in an effort to save the life of the mother.

Pregnant women seeking an abortion are not subject to prosecution under the statute.

When the High Court reversed its Roe v. Wade decision on June 24, 2022, the state statute which had lain dormant on the books for 91 years was triggered into effect again.

An abortion rights protester holds a sign as she demonstrates after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the Dobbs v. Womens Health Organization abortion case, overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade abortion decision on June 24, 2022. (Marco Bello/Reuters)

Issued on Aug. 8, the subpoena requires Whitmer to appear in Oakland County Circuit Court at 2 p.m. on Aug.17.

The filer of the subpoena is attorney David Kallman of the Great Lakes Justice Center.

Kallman is the lawyer for two county prosecutors who have said they would, pursuant to the state law, prosecute a doctor who performed an abortion in their jurisdiction if the case was presented to them and the evidence warranted such a move.

The fear of such actions by local prosecutors prompted Whitmer to file a request for a temporary restraining order to prevent them from enforcing the existing state statute.

Oakland County Circuit Judge Jacob Cunningham granted the temporary injunction.

My clients objective is to see that the injunction is vacated, said Kallman in a phone interview with The Epoch Times.

Kallman explained that Whitmer is the sole plaintiff in the case and as such, it is reasonable for her to be expected to testify in the legal action that she brought.

She purports to represent all the women of Michigan. Put bluntly, she doesnt, said Kallman.

According to Kallman, nothing in Michigan law prevents a sitting governor from being subpoenaed and having to appear in court.

Whitmer is the one asking for injunctive relief. She is saying she would be irreparably harmed if the existing state law is enforced.

I look forward to hearing her explain under oath how local prosecutors doing their sworn duty to uphold the law harms the governor, said Kallman.

Pro-abortion protester Michigan resident Daniel Smith, his wife, and his two daughters at the Bans off Our Bodies march in Washington on May 14, 2022 (Jackson Elliott/The Epoch Times)

To obtain a permanent injunction, Whitmer would have to show that she is being irreparably harmed by the enforcement of the existing state law and that her situation cannot wait for the legal process to run its normal course.

Whitmer must also show that the merits of her case are highly likely to prevail at trial.

Kallman contends that will be a tall order for Whitmer because precedent is against her.

Prior court decisions in Michigan have ruled that the Michigan Constitution contains no hidden right to an abortion as Whitmer claims. The trial judge is bound to follow this precedent.

If the judge follows the law he will deny a permanent injunction, said Kallman.

Whitmers office did not respond to an email question by The Epoch Times asking if she intends to comply with the subpoena.

According to Kallman, in recent affidavits, Whitmer has claimed that her director of the Department of Health and Human Services is being harmed because the uncertainty and confusion in the current legal situation in Michigan makes it difficult for the department to issue clear guidance to interested parties seeking direction.

Responding to Whitmers contention, Kallman said, The clear and accurate advice DHHS should be giving is to follow existing state law. But thats advice they dont want to give.

On Aug. 1, the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that county prosecutors could prosecute violators of the 1931 law because the Court of Claims injunction barring state officials from doing so did not apply to county prosecuting attorneys.

On Aug. 2, Whitmer obtained a preliminary injunction from trial court Judge Jacob Cunningham, again temporarily blocking enforcement of the state law, setting the stage for the Aug. 17 hearing.

Whitmer has repeatedly vowed to fight like hell and do whatever it takes to keep abortion legal in Michigan. Lets see if that includes showing up in court to testify next week, said Kallman.

As of press time, no motion to quash the subpoena has been filed.
Australian Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten speaks at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on March 29, 2022. (Martin Ollman/Getty Images)

Australian Minister Blames Red Tape for NDIS Backlog

Australian Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten, who oversees the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), has said that bureaucratic glue is preventing healthy patients from leaving public hospitals.

At present, over 1,400 NDIS participants across Australia are waiting an average of 160 days to be discharged from hospitals.

This results in Australian taxpayers having to pay at least $2,300 (US$1,600) a day for each stranded patient, which Shorten described as madness.

Under the NDIS, the federal government pays for the costs of supporting people with a permanent and significant disability.

The scheme covers many supporting areas, including independence, involvement in the community, education, employment, health and wellbeing.

While committing to solving the backlog issue, the minister blamed the previous Morrison government for the state of the NDIS he inherited after the Labor party won the May federal election.

The previous government has just, honestly, ignored the problem (and) Im genuinely mystified because this is a real issue. Its got real consequences, he told ABC Radio Melbourne.

Hospitals are designed to treat the sick. But if youre stabilised, youre better off being at home or in an appropriate special accommodation than a very expensive hospital bed, which also increases your risk of other illnesses.

Bureaucratic Decision-Making Blamed for NDIS Backlog

Shorten also said that the process of discharging patients seemed to be delayed by bureaucratic decision-making rather than a shortage of suitable accommodation.

In addition, he said authorities made decisions about patients consecutively rather than concurrently, which went against common sense.

Between the hard-working actions  within the system at a hospital to individual, to disability agency, somewhere between those efforts and outcomes, there seems to be this giant pot of bureaucratic glue which seems to slow everything down, he said.

It is an issue everywhere.

A patient waits outside St Vincents Hospital in Sydney, Australia, on May 1, 2013. (Getty Images/Getty Images)

Solutions

Speaking about the long waiting time of NDIS participants, Dr Bronwyn Morkham, the director of the Young People in Nursing Homes National Alliance, said she was not surprised about the situation.

However, she believed that the issue could be resolved with flexibility and cooperation between the NDIS and health services.

I think we need some genuine collaboration and cooperation between the NDIS and health services coming together to take a transition approach to take the patients back to the community where they should be, she told ABC Radio.

There are specialist disability accommodation options and services available to people. They may not be the intended destination, but they can certainly be somewhere to move people out of hospitals while we get the appropriate accommodation support service organised.

Meanwhile, Shorten said providing more funding to the NDIS was not the only solution. However, it could fix inefficient processes and enhance transparency.

He also mentioned that part of the solution lay in community mental health funding and the support that schools provided to students with additional needs.

The answers are not totally hard in some cases, he said. I just think youve got to have the political will to find them and implement them.
Bees are seen on a honeycomb cell in Woolloomooloo, Australia, on May 14, 2021. (Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

Australian Multi-Million Dollar Almond Industry at Risk Due to Bee Shortage

A shortage of bee hives due to varroa mite restrictions is threatening to cause millions of dollars of losses to almond farmers in Australia.

According to Almond Board of Australia chief executive Tim Jackson, farmers could be hit with significant losses as a ban on New South Wales (NSW) hives being moved into Victoria coincided with the start of the almond pollination season.

Jackson said the ban could result in a drop in almond production of 30,000 tonnes as Victoria grew 60 percent of Australias almonds, which would take a massive toll on the industry.

Its potentially a multi-million dollar loss, he told AAP.

Theres a lot of anxiety around what reduced crop potential this is going to create.

Following his tour around regional Victoria in the week commencing Aug. 1, Jackson said growers in the state now lacked 50,000 bee hives, one-third of the total quantity needed.

The almond industry met with Victorian officials during the week to find a solution. However, the meetings outcome was not positive.

There is a refusal from Victoria to allow NSW bees in, Jackson said.

We have been unable to broker any sort of compromise or solution that would allow enough bees situated in NSW back into Victoria for this years pollination.

Apiarist Vicky Brown of The Urban Beehive inspects hives at a rooftop site in Woolloomooloo, Australia, on May 14, 2021. (Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

An outbreak of varroa mite, a type of tiny external parasite that attacks and feeds on honey bees, occurred near Newcastle, north of Sydney, on June 22 and triggered a biosecurity lockdown on the movement of hives in several states.

Since then, the mite has spread to 79 premises throughout NSW, forcing authorities to set up several biosecurity zones in the state.

Restrictions Are Still In Place

As Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria placed restrictions on the movement of bees from NSW, Jackson said a lack of a coordinated approach between the states had caused frustration among almond farmers.

Here we are with COVID all over again, where states are putting themselves ahead of the national interest, he said.

Victoria is magnified simply because of the volume of bees that are needed from NSW.

At present, authorities do not issue permits to NSW beekeepers to move their bees into Victoria. However, they said the situation was being monitored, and permits could be considered when the risk eased.

A spokesperson for Agriculture Victoria said authorities were doing everything in their capacity to prevent the mite from entering the state.

While the NSW government is still delimiting the extent of the spread of varroa in NSW, we need to take a precautionary approach to ensure we protect Victorias agricultural sector, beekeepers, regional communities and businesses.

However, Jackson is calling on states to allow bees to be moved to low-risk areas within their jurisdictions under strict supervision.
Axios Sold for Over $500 Million to Family-Owned Firm Founded by Ex-Democrat Nominee for President

Cox Enterprises announced on Monday that they had acquired the media outlet Axios in a deal expected to close later this month, bringing the Twitter-era news outlet into the fold of a company with deep roots in American history.

The announcement on Monday afternoon revealed that the news site, known for its bullet-point presentation of technical information in politics and business, would be acquired by the wide-ranging Cox Enterprises, though Axioss founders will remain at the company with financial incentives to ensure their retention. The deal is valued at $525 millionroughly five times more than Axioss projected revenue for 2022according to two insiders who spoke to The New York Times on the condition of anonymity.

With so much happening in the world, Axios plays a critical role in delivering balanced, trusted news that people need, said Cox Enterprises CEO Alex Taylor in a statement. Our company started in the media business, and we have always had a passion for journalism. Bringing a forward-thinking organization like Axios into Cox Enterprises is exciting for us on many levels, and we look forward to helping them continue to scale and grow.

The media company Axios was founded in 2017 by former Politico journalist Jim VandeHei, who stated that the new platform was intended to resemble a mix between The Economist and Twitter. Like other new media outlets such as RealClearPolitics and FiveThirtyEight, Axios specializes in brief, digestible, and data-centric original content with a lightly technocratic, centrist perspective.

We launched Axios in January 2017 based on this shared belief: The world needed smarter, more efficient coverage of the topics shaping the fast-changing world. We pledged to put our audience first, always, the company states.

In contrast to the toddler-aged upstart Axios, Cox Enterprises is a legacy company founded in 1898 by the newspaper owner, U.S. representative, Ohio governor, and businessman James M. Cox, who ran as the Democratic Partys nominee for President of the United States in the 1920 election. The company is still owned by the Cox family, with the Ohio politicians great grandson Alex Taylor serving as CEO, while others such as Coxs grandson James Kennedy continue to hold positions of importance in the company and the board of directors.

It was announced that Taylor would also be joining the board of Axios, suggesting that the parent company will likely exercise some level of control over the outlets operations. However, according to Taylors statement, the greater part of the acquisition deal appears designed to maintain a high degree of continuity with Axioss past.
If there is any hope for a traditional approach to teaching Western civilizations cultural scaffolding to the next generation, it must happen at the K-12 level. (LStockStudio/Shutterstock)

Barbara Kay: Parents in Every Province Should Be Badgering Politicians for Charter Schools

New Calgary charter school a breath of fresh air in the education sphere

Commentary

Growing old has its compensations. One is institutional memory. Having been educated in an era when Western civilization was not a trope to be spat out like a bad oyster, I was free to absorb the cultural glories of the past without shame.

At my Toronto public high school, Latin was obligatory. I loved it enough to enrol in a university honours course of study called Latin, with an English option, (which included a years study of Greek). We were a small cohort even then, but no opprobrium was attached to the study of classics.

The wheels of history turned. My liberal education focused on the best that has been thought and said in our cultural canon. Mere decades later, radical leftists were chanting Hey, hey, ho ho, Western Civ has got to go. And, step by step, it is going.

The radically diminished field of classics in academia is now distinguished by calls from within for its abolitionon the now-familiar grounds of racism, sexism, and colonialism. Woke intellectuals bemoan the cultural genocide of indigenous peoples by white settlers. But they are perfectly comfortable with the incremental cultural suicide such an amputation of our own civilizations foundation represents.

If there is any hope for a traditional approach to teaching Western civilizations cultural scaffolding to the next generation, it must happen at the K-12 level. The universities are entirely captured by radical race and gender theorists. But then, so are the public schools. That leaves costly private schools (some of which are themselves captured, so caveat emptor) or charter schools, which are tuition-free public schools run by autonomous not-for-profit organizations with distinct philosophical or pedagogical orientations.

In the United States, the 1990s charter school movement is now revolutionizing early pedagogy. As of the 2017-18 school year, there were 7,193 charter schools in 44 states, plus the District of Columbia, translating into 7 percent of all schools, serving 3.1 million elementary and high school students.

In Canada by contrast, only one province, Alberta, allows charter schools, and until recently, when the cap was dropped, its 1994 legislation permitted only 15 of them, which serve something like 10,000 students. Canadians are no more thrilled with public education than Americans, but it seems they are not prepared to do political battle for choice as Americans have. Too bad, because charter schools on the whole give much better value than schools in the public system.

In a meta-study of 44 studies on charter schools in Alberta, the Fraser Institute found that, taken together, and controlling for socio-economic differences, charters produce enhanced scores, particularly for certain disadvantaged groups, and lead to more benchmark achievements. Albertas charter schools offer various mandates, including direct instruction, programs for gifted students and others based in art, science, single sex, or at-risk youth. A discipline-heavy multi-campus charter called Foundations for the Future is the top performing school in the province, with a 14,000-long wait list.

Three new charter schools are opening this year. One will focus on science and mathematics; one will specialize in agriculture for those vocationally inclined; and the third, which caught my particular attention, the Calgary Classical Academy, will serve children in grades K-6 for now but has plans to expand into high school in Calgary and, hopefully later, in Edmonton. Pretty much by word of mouthlegacy media has done no reportage on the projectthe CCA has enrolled 250 of their 300-student capacity.

The CCAs principles will be considered uplifting by those of us who believe education ought to build character and civic responsibility, as for example: The highest aspiration of education is to foster moral excellence. Our goal is to help students cultivate the mind and the heart, impart a love of virtue, and form the habits of temperance and self-mastery that will enable them to live good, healthy, and purposeful lives. And: We understand that structure and high expectations are not incompatible with the spirit of leisure or the pursuit of freedom, but are a precondition for them.

Progressives will doubtless find words like virtue, excellence, self-mastery, and high expectations code for imperial paternalism. But thats fine. Progressives have an entire school system at their disposal that shares their perspective. Critics say it is elitist, and yet the CCAs student body is a diverse group, with no ethnic group dominant. In fact, Nigerian children form a plurality.

I spoke with Caylan Ford, CCA founder and chair of the board, for whom this school is a (second) dream come true. In her teen years, this dynamic young mother of two devoted herself to the study of totalitarian regimes and the problem of political and philosophical evil. She worked extensively with dissidents, refugees, and exiles from authoritarian or totalitarian regimes, some of whom had suffered imprisonment and torture for their beliefs. (In exchange, she informed me, she had the honour of being perhaps the youngest Canadian to be blacklisted by the Chinese Communist Party when she was 16.)

Fords first dream was to combat the encroaching signs of the totalitarian mindset, as exemplified in cancel culture, through the political process. While campaigningapparently successfullyfor the United Conservative Party in 2019, however, she herself became a victim of a devastating cancellation by political actors abetting an anonymous malcontent with an ugly history of false allegations.

Fords ordeal would have permanently blighted any hopes of public service in most of us. Instead, she regrouped and, joined by an alpha team of like-minded beaters against the current, made a second, and likely far more influential dream, come true with the CCA.

The curriculum is rich in content, although with a more diversebut still merit-basedcanon that reflects our nations evolution; it can be consulted on the CCA website. Pervading all studies will be an explicit commitment to truth-telling (yes, objective truth is a given at CCA) in a smartphone-free environment, with minimal and deliberate use of screen-based technologies. Ford says she is blown away at the quality of our administration and teaching staff. Teachers applied from Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and B.C. in Canada, as well as from Australia, China, and the United Kingdom. Many of them hold PhDs or D.Phils.

Like many dreamers, Fords vision was grounded in concerns for her childrens future. Id like them to develop moral and intellectual discernment, so that they can distinguish between just and unjust, truth and falsehood, and beauty and ugliness, she said. I want them to have the capacity to resist fashionable ideologies.

Shouldnt we all want such an education for our children? The public school system is offering children fashionable ideologies and not much more. Why arent parents badgering politicians in every province for charter schools? Godspeed to the CCA, and may its tribe increase.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Ukrainian servicemen ride on tanks toward the front line with Russian forces in the Lugansk region of Ukraine, on Feb. 25, 2022. (Anatolii Stepanov/AFP via Getty Images)

Biden Admin Sends $1 Billion to Ukraine in Largest Yet Arms Package Drawn From US Stockpiles

Nearly six months into the RussiaUkraine war, the Biden administration on Monday announced a $1 billion security assistance package for Ukraine, coming on the same day it announced some $4.5 billion in aid to keep Ukraines government running.

Acting Pentagon press secretary Todd Breasseale announced that the latest $1 billion in aid to meet Ukraines critical security and defense needs is the Biden administrations 18th drawdown of equipment from Pentagon inventories for Ukraine since August 2021.

It is also the largest single drawdown of U.S. arms and equipment using presidential drawdown authority, he noted, which means the military aid originates directly from U.S. stockpiles.

President Biden has been clear that we will continue to support the Ukrainian people as they defend their country from Russian aggression, for as long as it takes, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. As part of those efforts, pursuant to a delegation of authority from the President, today I am authorizing our largest single drawdown of U.S. arms and equipment utilizing this authority.

Previously, the largest assistance package to Ukraine was announced in June, but it came from both presidential drawdown authority and authority granted to the Pentagon by the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which was created in 2015 in response to Russias annexation of Crimea.

The latest weapons package brings U.S. commitment of security assistance to Ukraine since the start of 2014 to $11.8 billion, and since the start of the Biden administration to $9.8 billion.

The arms package provides a significant amount of additional ammunition, weapons, and equipmentthe types of which the Ukrainian people are using so effectively to defend their country, Breasseale said.

Capabilities in the package include additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), which have a range of about 40 miles and allow Ukraine forces the power to strike faraway targets with more accuracy. The United States has provided 16 HIMARS to Ukraine so far.

Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl declined to specify how many rockets for the HIMARS have been included in the latest package.

Weve never given precise numbers of the rockets. We dont want to tip off the Russians to every last detail. But what I can say is since we provided the HIMARS and the associated munitions, which are referred to as GMLRS, which stands for Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systemsthese are precision-guided missiles with about a 70-km rangeweve provided multiple hundreds of these systems in the past few weeks. But Im not going to go into the details of the specific number in this package, he told reporters on Monday.

The weapons package also includes munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS), a Norwegian-developed anti-aircraft system that is the same system used to protect the airspace around the White House and Capitol in Washington. Kahl reminded reporters that there are no NASAMS in this package.

Other capabilities in the shipment of weapons and equipment include 75,000 rounds of 155mm artillery ammunition; 20 120mm mortar systems; 20,000 rounds of 120mm mortar ammunition; 1,000 Javelin anti-tank missiles and hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems; Claymore anti-personnel mines; C-4 explosives, demolition munitions, and demolition equipment.

Lastly, the package includes 50 armored medical treatment vehicles, as well as medical supplies, which will include first aid kits, bandages, monitors, and other equipment.

Kahl told reporters that Russia is estimated to have 3,0004,000 Russian armored vehicles in Ukraine amid the war. A lot of that [loss] is because of the antiarmor systems like Javelin, like the AT-4s, which are in this package, but also, frankly, because of the creativity and ingenuity in the way the Ukrainians have used those systems, he said.

Theres a lot of fog in war, but I think its safe to suggest that the Russians have probably taken 70,000 or 80,000 casualties in less than six months, Kahl also said. That is a combination of killed in action and wounded in action, and that number might be a little lower, a little higher, but I think thats kind of in the ballpark.

Blinken said the United States and allies will continue to consult closely with Ukraine and surge additional available systems and capabilities carefully calibrated to make a difference on the battlefield and strengthen Ukraines eventual position at the negotiating table.
Attorney Alan Dershowitz, a member of President Donald Trump's legal team, speaks to the press in the Senate Reception Room during the Senate impeachment trial at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Jan. 29, 2020. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Biden Administration Raid on Trump Improper, Dershowitz Says

Harvard Law School professor Alan Dershowitz and other legal scholars are questioning the Biden administration raid on former President Donald Trump.

The raid is supposed to be a last resort, but this administration has used the weaponization of the justice system against its political enemies. It has arrested people, denied them bail, put them in handcuffsused all kinds of techniques that are not usually applied to American citizens. I just hope this raid has the justification. If it doesnt have the justification, the materials seized in it will be suppressed, Dershowitz, who assisted Trumps legal team during the first impeachment effort, said on Newsmax.

This is improper, and this is misconduct. We have to find out what the facts are. But we have to make sure the shoe fits on the other footthat we want to make sure what is being done here is something that Democrats would not oppose if it were being done to Democratic operatives, as well, he added.

Its a breathtaking moment to have a raid like this on a former president and potentially the future opponent of the current president, Jonathan Turley, a criminal defense attorney and a law professor at George Washington University, said on Fox News.

Turley wondered why Attorney General Merrick Garland, a Biden appointee, did not appoint a special counsel, noting that then-Attorney General Elliot Richardson appointed a special prosecutor to investigate then-President Richard Nixon in the 1970s.

Now, here you have the past opponent of the current president and the expected future opponent, Turley said. I cant imagine how Attorney General Garland would look at that situation and not see an absolute necessity for a special counsel.

Little about the justification for the raid is known. The FBI declined to comment and its parent agency, the Department of Justice, which Garland heads, did not respond to a request for comment. The White House did not return an inquiry.

Supporting Documents Not Public

Search warrants require authorization from a judge. Oftentimes, the documents that law enforcement submits to the judge for a warrant are sealed, at least for a period of time, but due to the unprecedented situation the documents should quickly be made public, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody said.

This is really astonishing and I think for the integrity of this institution there needs to be immediate transparency, Moody, a Republican, said on Fox.

Trump alleged prosecutorial misconduct in a statement on the raid while Eric Trump, one of his sons, said on Fox that the purpose of the raid was seeing whether his father still possessed any documents the National Archives and Records Administration is seeking.

My father has worked so collaboratively with them for months. In fact, the lawyer thats been working on this was totally shocked. He goes, I had such an amazing relationship with these people and, all of a sudden, on no notice, they send, you know, 20 cars and 30 agents? Eric Trump said.

The records administration recovered documents from Mar-a-Lago, the resort that was raided, earlier this year. The documents were not turned over to the administration when Trump left office. The Presidential Records Act stipulates that presidential records automatically transfer to the custody of the U.S. archivist after a president transitions to a private citizen. The Department of Justice reportedly opened an investigation into the matter in April or May.
U.S. President Joe Biden talks to reporters while boarding Air Force One on travel to Eastern Kentucky to visit families affected by recent flooding, as he departs from Delaware Air National Guard Base in New Castle, Delaware, on Aug. 8, 2022. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters)

Biden on Taiwan: Im Not Worried, but Im Concerned

Speaking to reporters at Dover Air Force Base on Aug. 8, U.S. President Joe Biden said that he did not believe the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) presented an immediate threat to Taiwan but expressed concern about the number of troops and materiel being moved about the region.

Im not worried, Biden said, but Im concerned that theyre moving as much as they are.

I dont think theyre going to do anything more.

The comments came shortly after the CCP announced a new set of military exercises on Monday and vowed to continue operating on Taiwans side of the median line in the Taiwan Strait. Those new exercises, in turn, followed the regimes largest ever joint military exercises around Taiwan last week, which resulted in the launch of 11 ballistic missilessome of which flew over Taiwan and landed in the waters of Japans exclusive economic zone.

Despite Bidens hopeful forecast of the situation, the White House said that the CCP had positioned itself to take future actions against Taiwan.

China has positioned itself to take further steps, and we expect that they will continue to react over a longer-term horizon, said White House National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby last week. The United States will not seek and does not want a crisis. [But] we are prepared to manage what Beijing chooses to do.

We take our security commitments in the region broadly very, very seriously. We have robust military capability obviously available to meet those commitments, Kirby said.

Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu said on Aug. 9 that he believed the escalatory exercises were part of the CCPs larger plan for an invasion of Taiwan.

China has used the drills in its military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan, Wu said during a news conference.

After the drills conclude, China may try to routinize its action in an attempt to wreck the long-term status quo across the Taiwan Strait.

The CCP claims that Taiwan is a rogue province of China and has vowed to unite the island with the mainland by any means necessary. Democratic Taiwan has never been controlled by the CCP and has been self-governing since 1949.

Current tensions exploded last month when CCP authorities claimed that House Speaker Nancy Pelosis (D-Calif.) visit to Taiwan was a provocation against its sovereignty and threatened forceful measures against the United States.

Biden responded to this threat one day later by saying publicly that Pelosis trip was not a good idea. However, it is common practice for congressional delegations to visit the island.

That remark was widely seen as an overreach of the executive branch into the personal travels of a sitting member of Congress.

To that end, Biden clarified his stance on the issue on Monday.

That was her decision, Biden said.
President Joe Biden signs a semiconductor bill worth hundreds of billions of dollars into law. Will it help level the playing field with China?

An appeals court approves Democrat efforts to obtain former President Donald Trumps taxes, a day after the FBI raided his home.

Amazon is buying the maker of Roomba vacuums, sparking privacy concerns once again: What will Amazon do with your data?

Toyota is offering to buy back an electric SUV over a problem it cant figure out how to fix.

Gelato makers in Italy are celebrating a boom in demand for the sweet treat, as tourists return and temperatures soar.

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Democrats on Capitol Hill are pushing to close out a big package this week, expanding the governments role in multiple sectors including health care and energy.

Virginia Congressman Bob Good spoke with NTD to discuss the implications of the bill and how he plans to vote on it when it lands in the House later this week. He also addressed a particular concern with the billregarding the addition of tens of thousands of new IRS agents.

President Joe Biden visited severely damaged regions of Kentucky, where he met with Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear to survey the destruction caused by devastating flash floods.

Well take a look at the upcoming midterms and beyond. We sat down with Congressman Scott Perry, chair of the House Freedom Caucus, to discuss.

Former Twitter chief Jack Dorsey is speaking out against Beijings extreme COVID-19 restrictions, calling for an end to the Chinese Communist Party. His comment was made amid the recent lockdowns of two more major port cities in China.

Former President Donald Trump had some tough words for the Chinese Communist Party while speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas over weekend. Trump said that unleashing the virus on the world had a huge toll on the world.

The Chinese Communist Party is boosting its show of force. Military drills near the sovereign island nation of Taiwan are being carried out following House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to the independent island.

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Chinas Centralized Drug Procurement Slashes Spending, Pushing Foreign Drugs out of the Market

Under Chinas centralized drug procurement policy, domestically produced generic drugs are squeezing foreign-made drugs out of the Chinese public health care market with their lower prices.

The Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) centralized purchasing and marketing policy is seen as forcing drug companies to trade price for sales, while patients say that they are not benefiting from it.

Under the policy, once a drug is selected for centralized procurement, not only will its official purchase quantity be guaranteed, it may also save a lot on marketing costs. However, to gain these benefits, manufacturers need to keep the price as low as possible.

Drug sales through Chinas public hospitals account for more than 60 percent of the total. If the drug fails to win the bid, it not only loses the mainstream market and needs to open its own sales channels, but will also be affected in terms of price in the mainstream market.

Foreign-made Drugs Fail to Win Bids

Chinas sixth centralized procurement of diabetes special drugs (insulin) was fully implemented on July 22, and the seventh national centralized drug procurement completed the proposed selection list on July 12, waiting for the market share allocated according to the price ranking.

Among the 60 drugs selected on July 12, only 6 are imported, only 4 are originator drugs, including Pfizers Tigecycline, with an average price cut of 67 percent, much more than the total average reduction of 48 percent.

At least 36 originator drugs, including Pfizers multi-target cell cancer drug Sunitinib, Mercks lipid-reducing drug Ezetimibe, and Gileads Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), known as the strongest hepatitis B drug in history, failed to win the bidding.

Nearly 100 imported originator drugs have failed to win the bidding in all centralized procurements since 2018.

Originator Insulin Gradually Lost Mainstream Chinese Market

Before the specialized centralized procurement of insulin in November 2021, foreign insulin still dominated the Chinese market, with imported products accounting for about 70 percent of the total.

According to data from Chinese public hospitals in the first quarter of 2021, Novo Nordisk, Sanofi, and Eli Lilly had a combined market share of nearly 80 percent. Especially in the field of third-generation insulin, the most advanced, these three enterprises accounted for up to 90 percent of the market share in sample hospitals.

However, in this specialized procurement of insulin, 15 originator drugs from 3 foreign pharmaceutical companies were selected, accounting for only 36 percent. Most of them belonged to the lowest class C. Not only was the procurement volume halved, but also 30 percent of the volume had to be allocated elsewhere.

The fierce price cuts by Chinas local generic drug companies have reduced the price of third-generation insulins, where some originators are dominant, to the lowest in the world. Among them, the two third-generation insulins of Gan & Lee Pharmaceuticals, the leading insulin drug manufacturer in China, won the bidding at the lowest price, with a decrease of 66.6 percent and 68.1 percent, respectively.

Denmarks Novo Nordisk, which received the largest number of bids (seven) among multinational pharmaceutical companies, was cautious in price reduction. Six of its products were classified as class C in six procurement groups, only to ensure that it would not be excluded from the mainstream market.

Eli Lilly and Company from the United States only concentrated on the two third-generation insulins. It won the bidding with the largest 74.7 percent and 68.2 percent reduction in the centralized procurement respectively.

China is the worlds largest diabetic country, with an estimated 141 million people with diabetes as of November 2021. The prevalence of diabetes in Chinese adults has increased to 11.2 percent.

Sales of insulin and analogues in Chinas public medical institutions were about 27 billion yuan (about $4 billion) in 2020.

However, China has the lowest rates of diabetes awareness and treatment, according to the data of Guosheng Securities. Although China has more diabetics than the United States, its per capita medical spending is only one-tenth that of the United States.

Centralized Procurement Hits Originator Drugs Hard

Due to the high research and development costs of originator drugs, their prices are generally much higher than generic drugs. Take insulin for example, the originator drug can cost up to 30 yuan (about $4.5) more than a generic version of the drug. If the originator drug maker wants to win the bid in centralized procurement, it must make a much larger price cut.

The generic drug consistency evaluation policy, which began in 2018, evaluates generic drugs in accordance with the principle of consistent quality and efficacy compared with originator drugs, so that generic drugs can replace the originator drugs in clinical practice.

Moreover, there are additional pricing and quantity requirements in the centralized procurement that force drug companies to gain the market at the expense of price.

Taking the sixth centralized procurement of insulin as an example, not only was the maximum effective declared price specified, but also the declared price was not more than 1.3 times that of the lowest price in the same group, or less than 60 percent compared with the highest effective declared price in the same group.

Mainland Chinese: People Dont Benefit

The CCP authorities claim that local generics have benefited the public by slashing prices to accelerate their entry into Chinas mainstream market.

However, some Chinese people would disagree.

The impact of the centralized procurement only applies to hospitals, while common people fail to get the benefit, Mr. Zhang from Shenzhen city said. According to Zhang, the price of the medication may be low, but the cost of a hospital visit has soared, costing at least several hundred yuan each time.

In China, social status is the key to being able to afford health care and medicine, Zhang told The Epoch Times, citing the experience of a friend with diabetes. His earlier use of imported drugs, which cost more than 140,000 yuan (about $21,000), was reimbursed 90 percent by his company, but for most people in China, health insurance doesnt reimburse much, he said.

Wang Yan from Jilin city said that her husband, who is a civil servant and receives 4,000 yuan (about $593) a year from health insurance, has cut his normal dose of insulin in half so he doesnt have to pay for it himself.

His blood sugar is not well controlled, Wang told The Epoch Times.

Huxiu, a Chinese website, quoted Shen Longhai, deputy director of the Liaoning Baoshihua Hospitals oncology center, as saying that many Chinese patients still choose the more expensive originator drugs as long as they have the financial means to do so.

The report also covered a number of complaints from patients about generic drugs, saying that they have more side effects and are less effective than imported drugs. According to a Chinese industry insider, generic drugs only copy the main ingredients of originator drugs, while there are often differences in formulations, resulting in differences in actual efficacy and side effects.

Epoch Times reporter Ellen Wan contributed to this report.
Chinas Military Exercises Are Preparation for Invasion: Taiwan Foreign Minister

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is using military exercises around Taiwan to prepare for an invasion of the island, according to Taiwans foreign minister.

China has used the drills in its military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan, Joseph Wu said at a news conference on Aug. 9.

It is conducting large-scale military exercises and missile launches, as well as cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic coercion, in an attempt to weaken public morale in Taiwan.

Wu did not give a timetable for when he expects the CCP to mount an offensive on the island, but U.S. military leaders have estimated such an attack could happen by 2027.

The CCP claims that Taiwan is a rogue province of China and has vowed to unite the island with the mainland by any means necessary. However, democratic Taiwan has never been controlled by the CCP and has been self-governing since 1949. As such, Taiwan rejects Chinas sovereignty claims and maintains that only the Taiwanese people can decide the islands future.

CCP Aggression

Communist China launched a series of escalatory military exercises last week, which have encircled Taiwan with CCP forces and compressed the islands air and sea pathways.

Since then, China has cut regional military communications with the United States and fired at least 11 ballistic missiles, five of which flew directly over Taiwan and landed in the waters of Japans exclusive economic zone.

CCP authorities claim that the exercises are a protest against U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosis (D-Calif.) visit to Taiwan last week. Taipei and Washington claim that the CCP is manufacturing a crisis in order to establish a pretext for mobilizing its military around Taiwan and unilaterally changing the status quo in the region.

To that end, there is an ongoing standoff between Chinese and Taiwanese forces around the median line of the Taiwan Strait involving about 10 warships from each government.

Wu said that the CCPs continued efforts to transgress across the median line provided a clear image of Chinas geostrategic ambitions beyond Taiwan and urged greater international support to stop China from effectively controlling the strait.

After the drills conclude, China may try to routinize its action in an attempt to wreck the long-term status quo across the Taiwan Strait, Wu said.

Numerous international forums, including the G-7, ASEAN, and IPAC, have condemned Chinas aggression and called on the regime to pursue a peaceful end to current tensions.

There is no justification to use a visit as pretext for aggressive military activity in the Taiwan Strait, said a G-7 statement last week.

We call on [China] not to unilaterally change the status quo by force in the region, and to resolve cross-Strait differences by peaceful means.

Chinas Eastern Theater Command, which oversees the part of China nearest Taiwan, said on Aug. 8 that it would conduct more military exercises around Taiwan, focusing on anti-submarine and sea assault operations.

On Tuesday, the command said it continued military exercises in the seas and airspace around Taiwan with warships and fighters. It was unclear if the statement meant that the Chinese regime would halt its live-fire missile exercises.

Likewise, Taiwan began its long-scheduled artillery drills on Tuesday.

Concerning the possibility of escalation in the region, U.S. President Joe Biden said on Monday that he was concerned about Chinas actions but not worried about an invasion of Taiwan.

Im not worried, Biden said, but Im concerned that theyre moving as much as they are.

I dont think theyre going to do anything more.
Cinema Documentary Review: The Real Story of January 6

A refreshingly insightful documentary about the January 6th event

1h 43m | Documentary | 2022

[PRE-ORDER] the DVD here!

The Real Story of January 6. (The Epoch Times)

The Jan. 6 event has left many people scratching their heads. Harsh punitive measures were not only used against protestors in the wake of the mass gathering but many extreme measures were used against them on that very day. In The Epoch Times new documentary The Real Story of January 6, hosted by lead investigative reporter Joshua Philipp, we get to see some of the lesser-known facets of the event.

Lead Investigative Reporter Joshua Philipp in The Real Story of January 6. (The Epoch Times)

One of Philipps first interviews is with Stan Kephart, who has 42 years of experience in law enforcement and is one of the nations leading experts on police use of force. Kephart noted that not only were there no supervisors on hand for the cops assigned to the Capitol detail on Jan. 6, but they were improperly firing munitions down into the crowd from elevated positions.

Since the crowd was packed very tightly in many of the areas the police were shooting into, the protestors heads became the primary targets. These munitions were inexplicably being used on peaceful protesters merely standing in the crowd, not rushing the barricades between the crowd and the police. In other words, the police were firing projectiles capable of taking out peoples eyes (or causing other severe injuries) without any cause or provocation.

Kephart also mentions that tasers were being deployed and shot into peoples bodies. But instead of arresting people who had been neutralized, the weapons were being used in a punitive fashion, which is illegal. Its not only a failure of training but also a failure of bystandership and supervision, Kephart states.

Explosive devices, such as gas dispersion grenades, were another weapon being thrown into the crowd. Such devices could have permanently blinded bystanders or caused severe hearing problemsfor life. Naturally, this caused the crowd of protestors to become angry.

Accordingly to Kephart, all of these punitive actions by the cops on hand were not only wrong, they were sadistic. As a result of these police actions, a couple of gentlemen experienced cardiac events and were transported to medical facilities where they later passed away.

One woman named Victoria White was inadvertently shoved into a tunnel under the Capitol by the protestors. Although she had no intention of being there and was trying to extract herself from being wedged into the tunnel, a police officer struck her repeatedly in the head with a metal baton. Since she was in a partial state of shock, she thought shed only been struck several times. However, when she later watched video footage of the assault, she counted many more times that she had been hit heavily in the head. She was also called the B-word and punched in the face with a closed fist by the same cop using the baton on her. White, a mother of four children, suffered severe injuries as a result of the assault.

Ashli Babbitt, a small white female who served her country honorably in the U.S. Air Force, was shot and killed by a Capital Police Officer named Michael Byrd. Babbitt was transported to a local hospital but later died from Byrds bullet. At first, the media tried to hide the identity of Byrd, but when he was finally IDd, he was swiftly exonerated of any wrongdoing and even hailed as a hero by many leftists.

As Philipp explains, phrases would populate news sites immediately following Jan. 6. Terms such as insurrection, treason, and stormed the capital were relentlessly and unilaterally pushed by the corporate media outlets. All of this frenzied media coverage led Philipp to an interesting questionwhy was there such a huge media blitz about the Jan. 6 protest?

Journalist Julie Kelly in The Real Story of January 6. (The Epoch Times)

To answer that question, Philipp seeks out top political commentator and leading journalist Julie Kelly, senior writer at the news publication American Greatness. According to Kelly, certain political forces got away with the whole Russia Gate hoax, so they felt emboldened to commit more crimes. This resulted in a joint session of Congress proceeding to install Joe Biden and Kamala Harris into the White House. But the media frenzy about Jan. 6 also served another underlying purposeto take attention away from both the failed Russia-Trump collusion narrative as well as the allegations of election fraud in the 2020 election.

Kelly adds that the Jan. 6 protest also allowed these same nefarious political forces to conveniently vilify two groups, the Oath Keepers and the Proud Boys (both were on hand to provide security for the protestors), and attempt to link them to President Donald J. Trumpa strategy that failed thus far. This also allowed for conservative political dissent to be criminalized and to finally drive a stake into the heart of the MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement, as Kelly put it.

People loot a store in Concord, Calif., in The Real Story of January 6. (The Epoch Times)

Since the Jan. 6 protest, hundreds of people have been hunted down on arrested by numerous law enforcement agencies for their involvement in it. Many of these folks, such as Matthew Perna, faced decades in prison. Perna, a kind-hearted individual, cracked under the pressure of facing hard time after having his rights violated, and committed suicide in prison. Geri Perna, Matthews aunt, notes that on the other side of the coin, real criminals are running around committing all kinds of crimes, such as blatant daytime robberies and the looting of stores in the nations cities, and not being arrested.

As Philipp states at the conclusion of this illuminating documentary, America needs answers on why the main instigators (of January 6th) are not charged, and that the crimes on all sides need to be treated with equal measure.

The Real Story of January 6 is a well-produced and greatly researched, highly revelatory documentary that sheds some much-needed light on the events on (and after) the Jan. 6 protest, and more importantly, asks some very valid questions.

The Real Story of January 6

[PRE-ORDER] the DVD here!

Director: Matthew Thayer

Stars: Joshua Philipp, Joseph Hanneman, Stan Kephart

Running Time: 1 hour, 43 minutes

MPAA Rating: Not rated

Release Date: October 1, 2020

Rated: 5 stars out of 5

Ian Kane is a filmmaker and author. To learn more, visit iankanebooks.com/or contact him on Instagram @dreamflightent.

Watch on Epoch Cinemavisit the link here.



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Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland, Justice Minister and Attorney General of Canada David Lametti and President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada and Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair stand behind Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as he announces that the Emergencies Act will be invoked to deal with the Freedom Convoy protests, in Ottawa on Feb. 14, 2022. (Hailey Sani/Public Domain)

Civil Liberties Groups in Federal Court to Challenge Invocation of Emergencies Act

Two civil liberties groups are in the Federal Court to seek disclosure of unredacted documents that led to the federal governments decision to invoke the Emergencies Act to end the Freedom Convoy protest earlier this year.

The Canadian Constitution Foundation (CCF) and the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) challenged the use of the act on Aug. 8.

In a statement, the CCF said it is seeking an order for the attorney general to disclose the documents, including minutes of the Incident Response Group (IRG) and cabinet meetings that led to declaration of the act.

The governments failure to disclose wide swaths of evidence that go to the question of whether it was justified in invoking the Emergencies Act is an attempt to evade meaningful judicial review, said Christine Van Geyn, the CCFs litigation director, in the statement.

Allowing these documents to remain secret would undermine the integrity of the proceedings in this historic matter if a litigant is pre-empted from arguing in court that the government acted unconstitutionally.

Incident Response Group

The IRG, created by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in August 2018, is a federal committee, described by the government as a dedicated, emergency committee that will convene in the event of a national crisis or during incidents elsewhere that have major implications for Canada.

Trudeau convened the IRG, consisting of federal ministers and senior officials, on Feb. 10, amid the Freedom Convoy protest taking place in Ottawas downtown core since late January against federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates and restrictions. The protest prompted several blockades at Canada-U.S. border crossings in solidarity with the convoy as the movement broadened to call for an end to other pandemic restrictions.

The [IRG] discussed the significant federal support that the RCMP is providing to law enforcement partners both in Ontario and across Canada, a government statement said of the meeting.

Following the meeting, the Liberal government invoked the Emergencies Act on Feb. 14, giving the police additional powers to remove the demonstrators in escalated operations over the next few days.

The act also allowed financial institutions to freeze the bank accounts of individuals and entities that were believed to have donated to the protest, without the normal requirement of first obtaining a court order.

It was the first time the act has been invoked since it was introduced in 1988 to replace the War Measures Act, which has been brought into force only three times in Canadian history: during the two world wars and the 1970 October Crisis.

Emergencies Act Review

On Aug. 8, the CCLA also appeared at the Federal Court that is reviewing the federal governments invocation of the act.

According to the CCLA, the hearing is part of a broader legal challenge to the governments unprecedented invocation of the Emergencies Act, which allowed the government to bypass typical democratic processes to limit constitutional rights across the country.

The arguments we are presenting today will highlight howin this case and othersthe federal government has been using cabinet privilege to try to shield an increasingly wide range of government information from meaningful scrutiny, the CCLA said in a news release on Aug. 8.

The advocacy group said it recognized the disruption the Freedom Convoy protests had caused at the time but said the invocation of the Emergencies Act was unlawful and unconstitutional.

Since that time our pro bono counsel have been trying to get answers from the government. What evidence did the government have to ground its invocation of the Emergencies Act, and what evidence justified the emergency orders they passed limiting constitutional rights across the entire country? the CCLA said.

Getting answers hasnt been easy.
Commerce Department Accuses Chinese Company of Illegally Shipping Equipment to Iran

The Department of Commerce accused Chinas largest wire and cable manufacturer, Far East Cable, of violating export controls aimed at preventing the shipment of equipment to Iran.

In a charging letter (file) issued July 29, the department said that Far East Cable committed 18 violations of U.S. export controls between 2014 and 2016. During that time, the department alleged Far East Cable entered an agreement to supply equipment from Chinas ZTE to Iranian companies, effectively circumventing export restrictions against ZTE.

As alleged, Far East Cable acted as a cutout for ZTE, facilitating ZTE shipments to Iran at the very time ZTE knew it was under investigation for the exact same conduct said Office of Export Enforcement Director John Sonderman in an Aug. 8 statement (pdf).

Far East Cable engaged in serious conduct as part of the attempt to conceal the activity from U.S. investigators. These charges should send a strong message to any company contemplating facilitating violations on behalf of another.

The charges developed out of an investigation opened into ZTE, a Chinese telecoms equipment company, in 2012. ZTE ultimately reached a series of settlements with the department in 2017, admitting to violating U.S. export control rules and sanctions on Iran.

During that investigation, in 2014, the department alleged that Far East Cable picked up ZTEs contracts and went on to act as an intermediary by delivering American technologies to Iran and obfuscating ZTEs role in the transactions.

Far East Cable contracted with Telecommunications Company of Iran and Khadamate Ertebati Rightel, another Iranian company, the letter said.

Both companies were customers of ZTE. Both companies also suspended shipments of items originating from the United States to Iran in 2012. The following year, however, ZTE made plans to resume shipments to Iran through Far East Cable, the letter said.

ZTE paid an $892 million penalty in 2017 and pleaded guilty to shipping American goods to Iran in violation of laws that restrict the sale of American-made technology. It also admitted to obstructing justice after being caught in an elaborate scheme to mask its illicit Iranian business ties.

ZTE was allowed to continue to buy U.S. goods and technology until 2018, when it was caught lying about disciplining employees tied to the original wrongdoing. This ban was later lifted when the company agreed to replace its senior management, pay an additional fine, and establish internal compliance procedures.

The charges were brought by the departments Bureau of Industry and Security, which leads efforts to prevent foreign adversaries from obtaining sensitive American technologies.

This action reflects the Commerce Departments commitment to enforce our laws vigorously against those involved in a scheme to disguise the true parties to a transaction, said Assistant Secretary of Commerce Matthew Axelrod.

We have no tolerance for companies that subvert our rules, either on their own behalf or on behalf of others.

Reuters contributed to this report
Britain's Foreign Secretary Liz Truss (L) and former Chancellor to the Exchequer Rishi Sunak, contenders to become the country's next prime minister, arrive to take part in the BBC's 'The UK's Next Prime Minister: The Debate' in Victoria Hall in Stoke-on-Trent, central England, on July 25, 2022. (Jacob King/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Conservative Party Candidates Take Tough Stance on CCP

Political leaders around the world increasingly say No to the Chinese Communist Party

News Analysis

Candidates for British Conservative party leader are competing to demonstrate how tough they will be in their stance against the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), indicating that the UKs decoupling from the CCP has become the consensus of mainstream British society.

The winner of the party leadership contest will succeed Prime Minister Boris Johnson to be the new prime minister in September.

On July 25, Foreign minister Liz Truss and former Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak went into their first head-to-head debate in their race to be the next prime minister on live BBC TV.

The two candidates unexpectedly shifted the focus of their arguments to the CCP ruling regime, according to the Chinese language BBC report of the day.

Acknowledge the CCP Is a Threat

Truss said in the debate, that what the UK really needs to do is acknowledge the threat of the CCP to Britains national security and economic security and prevent the CCP from infiltrating British companies and stealing technology. In addition, Britain needs to uphold its values.

When it comes to Hong Kong, she said the UK was capable of securing sufficient funding to welcome thousands of people out of Hong Kong and into the country.

Truss criticized Sunak for being too moderate toward the CCP in the past, saying that Sunak was pushing for closer trade relations with the CCP only a month ago, and now she is glad that Sunak has accepted her opinion.

Whether its taking the alternative to the Chinese Belt and Road with our G-7 colleagues, whether its being clear that Taiwan should be able to defend itself in the face of Chinese aggressionwe have led on that. Truss said.

The Belt and Road is the global infrastructure project initiated by CCP leader Xi Jinping, aiming at expanding its influence over other countries in the world.

Truss also expressed her dissatisfaction with the Treasury Department, and frankly, what weve heard from the Treasury is a desire for closer economic relations with China.

The UK should crack down on Chinese technology companies such as TikTok, a video-sharing platform popular among western youngers, in order to limit technology exports to the authoritarian regimes, said Truss, claiming that if she wins the election, she will do so.

Truss and Sunak are currently vying for the support of some 160,000 British Conservative Party members. These members will begin voting in early August to choose their next party leader. The final result is expected to come out on Sep. 5.

Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak hosts a press conference in the Downing Street Briefing Room in London, England, on Feb. 3, 2022. (Justin Tallis  WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Largest Threat to the UK

Global Times a Chinese state media and CCP mouthpiece once praised Sunak as the only candidate in the race who had a clear and pragmatic view on developing UK-China ties.

But the Chinese media soon found its mistakes as Sunak turned to a totally opposite position. In the July 25th debate, he described the CCP as the largest threat to British and the worlds security and prosperity this century.

Sunak suggested shutting down the 30 Confucius Institutes in the UK to prevent the CCP from spreading its soft power.

The CCP-backed Confucius Institutes are widely known as a propaganda tool for the CCP to influence relations with the West under the cloak of cultural and language communications.

The Higher Education Bill needs to be amended to force British universities to disclose any foreign funding partnerships of above 50,000 ($60,000) in light of Chinas technological aggression.

Sunak pledged to increase the efforts of MI5, the UK counter-intelligence agency, to combat Chinese Communist spies and will seek to establish NATO-style international cooperation to counter the threat posed by the CCP in cyberspace. He will also look at cases where the CCP is prohibited from acquiring key British assets, including strategically sensitive technology companies.

Sunak accused the CCP of stealing UK technology and infiltrating universities, as well as supporting Putin by buying Russian oil and trying to bully its neighbors, including Taiwan.

He criticized Beijings Belt and Road project for saddling developing countries with insurmountable debt and for its human rights violations and economic deprivation of China.

Enough is enough. For too long, politicians in Britain and across the West have rolled out the red carpet and turned a blind eye to Chinas nefarious activity and ambitions.

I will change this on Day 1 as PM, Sunak said.

Dare to Say No to the CCP

In an interview with The Epoch Times on July 28, Qi Jiazhen, the executive of the Qis Cultural Foundation of Australia, said that international communities have already recognized that the CCP is a huge danger.

This awareness is different from the past, In the past, many countries did not come forward to say No to the CCP, even though they knew that the CCP was eroding their culture, economy, and military, but that has changed, said Qi.

Sunak was once pro-Beijing with his family remaining economic ties with the CCP, but he now is anti-Beijing. Sunaks shift reflects that the world is beginning to dare to say No to Communist China, Qi said.

It is also evident that the public considers it very crucial for the candidates to be anti-CCP, I hope that the British public will elect people who are truly fighting against the CCP.

The royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom (R) is seen next to the national flag of China as pro-Beijing activists gather outside the British Consulate-General to protest against the use of the British National (Overseas) passport in Hong Kong on Feb. 1, 2021. (Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images)

A Shift in the Political Sphere

While major British media outlets are reporting that Truss and Sunak are accusing each other of being too weak on Beijing and declaring that they will get tougher, British political circles and the public reached a consensus on being anti-CCP, and even the largest opposition party, the Labor Party, is making significant revisions to its policy towards China.

U.S.-based China expert Tang Jingyuan told The Epoch Times that the shift in the UK political sphere has four main reasons.

One is the traditional U.S.-UK alliance, which allowed the UK to share a great deal of intelligence with the U.S. during the Johnson administration. It may include that CCP concealed the epidemic outbreak and caused it to spread worldwide, and the genocidal atrocities committed in Xinjiang, where Uyghurs live in China, Tang said.

Second, the CCPs brutal suppression of the 20192020 pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong violated the Sino-British Joint Declaration, dealing a serious blow to the previous perception of the CCP regime in the UK.

The CCPs crackdown on Hong Kong is actually a crackdown on the values represented by the British political and legal system, said Tang.

This is an exact illustration of the aggressive and exclusive nature of the Communist Partys ideological manifestations, which are far more damaging than UK-China cooperation in the economic sphere. This has led Britain to realize that the national security threat posed by the CCP is much greater than the economic dividends it brings, Tang continued.

Third, after Russias invasion of Ukraine, the CCP made statements on Russias side, along with voices about Ukraine today and Taiwan tomorrow. The UK was alarmed to learn that the CCPthis communist regime with financial and military poweris an evil regime that fully supports dictatorial tyranny and intends to expand abroad.

This regime is seeking to overthrow the existing international order, which is dominated by the U.S.-British alliance, and this affects Britains fundamental interests, Tang said.

Fourthly, more negative news was revealed about the CCPs penetration of the UK in the areas of politics, technology, education, and culture. This has led to a widespread awareness in the UK that the CCPs tentacles are close to home.

This is one of the major factors in the emergence of a strong crisis in the British political arena against the CCP, Tang added.

Would Economic Coercion Work?

In the past years, the CCP has been exerting economic pressure on other countries, but now it doesnt work as well as before.

The CCPs zero-COVID policy and lockdown measures have continued for more than two years, tipping the countrys economy into a downturn.

Therefore, I dont think the economic pressure or any other means that the CCP is using on the UK will work, Qi said. For example, the CCP has put economic pressure on Australia by not importing Australian coal. But Australia has opened up another market, so the CCP is just lifting the stone and smashed its own feet.

The reversal of Sunaks position shows that it has become the consensus in mainstream British society to reject and decouple [from] the CCP, Tang said.

UK diplomacy is based on national security rather than economic and trade cooperation, and so it would be counterproductive for the CCP to use economic coercion to change the UKs stance.

Ellen Wan contributed to this report
Democratic Socialists of America Member Appointed President of New Congressional Workers Union

Philip Bennett, the newly selected president of the Congressional Workers Union and a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, is the first individual in American history to hold such a title because the CWU is the first collective bargaining unit ever allowed to be organized by the U.S. House of Representatives for staff aides.

Bennett is also a member of the Congressional Progressive Staffers Association, the Hispanic Staffers Association, and the Native American Staffers Association.

The California natives actual job on Capitol Hill is serving as scheduler for Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), a member of the radically left-wing group of representatives known as The Squad.

Before his new duties with CWU were made public, Bennett was among a group of six staffers to be arrested on July 26 during a sit-in by 17 aides in Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumers (D-N.Y.) office. The sit-in was to protest what Bennett and the others protesting described as too little action by Congress against controversial predictions of dire global warming.

Bennett could not be reached for comment, as a message on his official email said he is out of the office until Aug. 15. A request for comment sent via the CWUs media inquiry email did not receive a response.

Bennett is one of 12 House staffers announced by the CWU as interim members of the unions governing board. It is not known how Bennett and the other board members were selected.

The first-ever congressional staff union was approved by the House in May and the initial offices to begin organizing bargaining units included those of Rep. Andy Levin (D-Mich.), Rep. Jesus Garcia (D-Ill.), Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.), Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.), as well as Omar.

Levin led the effort among House members to gain the authorization to form the staff unions, but he was defeated in Michigans Aug. 2 primary by Rep. Haley Stevens, who touted her credentials as a centrist Democrat after the two were redistricted into the same district. Stevens defeated Levin by nearly 20 points in a decisive victory.

To form a collective bargaining unit, a majority of staffers in a congressional office must vote to support the action. It is not yet clear how many of the 435 representatives will ultimately see their staffs organize bargaining units. Negotiations will be between the employing member and the CWU bargaining unit.

The CWU is needed, according to its website, because congressional staff are underpaid and overworked. Work conditions on the Hill are so poor that burnout and turnover are at an all-time high. These systemic issues are long-running and have only been exacerbated by the pandemic, the [January 6] insurrection, and hostile work environment on the Hill.

The CWU declares on its website that it is currently involved in closed discussions with several unions regarding potential affiliation and representation.

Staffers on both sides of the partisan aisle in both the Senate and House have long been known for putting in long hours. Younger staffers in entry level and junior positions are often paid less than the $44,428 minimum living wage for a single resident living in the District of Columbia.

But wages for middle and senior level Hill staffers with a few years of experience are typically relatively generous, as is demonstrated by the compensation paid to Bennett and his 11 colleagues. And Hill staffers with four or five years of experience are routinely recruited by K Street lobbying firms, which pay them substantially higher salaries.

All but two of the interim board members are paid more than the $63,214 that was the national average individual income in America in 2021.

Bennett at $67,658 is not the highest-paid member of the interim board. That distinction belongs to Kyle Decant, CWUs Vice-President for Bargaining, who is paid $125,583 in his regular position as Labor Policy Counsel to the Democratic majority of the House Committee on Education and Labor, according to Legistorm.

Decant began in his present position with the committee in 2017 with a salary of $65,833.

The second highest paid member of the interim board is Emma Preston, vice-president for member services, and a legislative assistant for Khanna, who pays her $73,646. Preston supported Sen. Bernie Sanders failed 2020 presidential campaign and, during her time at the University of Chicago, was a member of the Graduate Student Union. Preston also did not respond to The Epoch Times request for comment.

Courtney Rose Laudick, CWUs vice-president for organizing, is a senior legislative assistant for Levin and receives $68,500 in annual compensation. Laudick expects to complete her Masters Degree in Labor Studies from the University of Massachusetts in 2024.

Laudick also supported the Sanders 2o20 presidential campaign and was a co-founder of the Congressional Progressive Staff Association. In an Aug. 6 Twitter post, Laudick said I think I want my new job to be helping workers start independent unions. Or just generally being a labor lawyer without the whole spending $$$ on a bogus law degree.

The average salary for the top six interim board members is $73,992, which is 17 percent higher than the average individual American annual income. That average is boosted higher by Decants paychecks.

The average for all 12 of the board members is $66,256, or about five percent above the average individual Americans annual income.
Former President Donald Trump speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas on Aug. 6, 2022. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Did Fox News Ban Trump? Experts Weigh In

News Analysis

With the calendar now up to over 100 days since Trump has appeared on the Fox News network, media reports, citing people close to Trump, say that the former president is complaining that the network has turned against him.

Rather than giving air time to Trump rallies and speeches, Fox has helped highlight conservative competitors to the 2024 likely bid by the former president to regain the White House, such as Floridas Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis. In late July, the network chose not to do a live airing of Trumps first speech in Washington since leaving office, but on the same day, it did run a live broadcast of a 17-minute speech by former Vice President Mike Pence.

In the wake of media reports saying that the decision to snub the former president stems from a distrust of Trump from the companys top leadershipchairman Rupert Murdoch and his son, Lachlan, chief executiveThe Epoch Times spoke to former Fox contributors, industry observers, and experts who weighed in on whats at stake.

For its part, Fox News has countered the allegations with a PR blitz denying that Trump is persona non grata at the network, and with several recent attempts by Fox News media properties to highlight Trump in a positive manner.

But the belated PR offensive isnt washing with at least one high-level former contributor and one former Fox News producer.

Former Contributor Doubts Foxs Denials

Former Fox contributors said that factors contributing to the alleged blockade are high-level figures at Fox who are opposed to Trump, corporate rigidity in trying to control guests, and attempts at kingmaking by Rupert Murdoch that had previously been resisted by the networks top talent.

I think [Fox owner Rupert] Murdoch is having a hissy fit that Trump did not slavishly follow his advice and direction when Trump was president, former Fox contributor Dick Morris told The Epoch Times.

Morris, 73, a best-selling author, a widely-respected pollster and political commentator, is credited by some with saving Bill Clintons presidency after the disastrous mid-term defeat by the Democrats in Clintons first term.

I think Murdoch likes to exercise sovereignty over the people hes working with. And Trump wasnt about to be that sort, said Morris.

Morris alleged that Murdoch first approached then-presidential candidate, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, to be Foxs candidate of choice for the 2016 presidential election, but Clinton refused the meeting.

When it became clear that [Murdoch] couldnt do that because Roger Ailes was then in charge at Fox and told Murdoch that he would resign if that happened, then Murdoch has to endorse Trump, added Morris.

Former Fox Producer Skeptical

A former Fox producer, Breanna Morello, who left Fox over what she described as the networks hypocrisy on COVID-19 vaccine mandates, alleged that, Fox, as a corporation, is fearful of conservatives who they cannot control.

I just know that they like having safe conservatives on, conservatives that are going to say what Fox wants to say. And Trump isnt going to do that for you [if youre a Fox producer], Morello told The Epoch Times.

Morello said that Fox producers are often stopped from having on certain guests such as former New York City Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik because they cant predict what guests, like Kerik, who are known for bluntness, might say.

There are plenty of people who we were not allowed to have on air because we couldnt predict whats going to come out of their mouth, said Morello about alleged bans of guests like Trump and Kerik.

They dont like that, added Morello about Fox corporate executives.

Paul Ryan and Never Trumpers

It might be noted that Kerik, Trump, and Rudy Giuliani, who is also reportedly banned from Fox, are political allies.

According to Morris, further at play at Fox is the continuing tension between who the analyst described as Never Trumpers and American nationalists, who are fiercely represented by Trump. Morris described the former as free market capitalists that want Adam Smith, that wants a free flow of labor and good, and who opposed tariffs on China because they are globalists.

Morris likened the GOP to a layer cake with the globalists and Never Trumpers as the bottom, widest layer, and the American nationalists as the top, smaller layer.

Ultimately American nationalists run counter to the doctrine of free market economics, Morris said.

Free markets economics is essentially globalist in nature and the establishment of the Republican Party is basically globalist, whereas Trump is fiercely nationalist, Morris added, noting that this disagreement is at the core of the Never-Trump movement in the Republican Party.

One figure who many view as a key figure in this movement is former Speaker of the House and vice presidential candidate, Paul Ryan, who is a prominent member of the Fox board of directors, serving as chair of the Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee, appointed in 2019.

Ryan and Trump have often feuded publicly.

In a recent dust-up, Trump called Ryan a curse to the Republican Party, after Ryan told the party not to rely on the appeal of one personality, a not-so-veiled shot at Trump.

Paul Ryan has a lot of weight around there, Morello said about Ryans current influence at Fox.

I dont know if hes behind [the Trump ban], but thats the speculation behind it, added Morello.

The Epoch Times was unable to reach out to Ryan for comment.

Pressure to Move on from Trump

Morris said that he thinks one can assume that there is pressure on Fox personalities by the companys executives to move on from Trump.

They have not interviewed him for three and a half months, said Morris, who warned that a Trump ban would ultimately hurt Fox.

That wouldnt happen without orders from the top.

Even so, Morello said that some of the bigger Fox personalities, such as Tucker Carlson, are politely making their opposition to an alleged Trump ban known.

The people I have spoken to say that Tucker has been at [Trumps Florida home] Mar-a-Logo for three weeks. I think thats a clear message on Tuckers part, said Morello, who noted that Carlson has a remote studio in Palm Beach, making a Trump appearance almost inevitable.

I think hes sticking the little finger up at the [Fox] executives, in a respectful way, not so direct, added Morello.

Foxs Response

Fox, for its part, was quick to deny that any such ban exists, promptly answering requests made by The Epoch Times for an interview with the companys chief executive Lachlan Murdoch.

Irena Briganti, who runs PR for Fox News Media, sent a series of links via email to The Epoch Times including a Howard Kurtz on-air denial of a Trump ban.

Kurtz, at one time a Washington bureau chief for the website the Daily Beast, hosts Fox News Channels MediaBuzz program aired on Sundays.

I can report, there is no edict whatsoever against having Trump on this network, said Kurtz in the clip forwarded to The Epoch Times.

I have reached out myself with an invitation some weeks ago and people close to the former president confirmed he has not said yes to any Fox show or been turned down after asking to be on a Fox show, just for the record, Kurtz added.

When pressed by The Epoch Times to provide a Fox News executive to interview for the story or to categorically deny the allegations that Fox has initiated a ban of Trump appearing face-to-face on Fox, Briganti said she was sorry that were not able to accommodate an interview.

The other links contained positive coverage of Trump from Fox News Media including three stories dated Aug. 6.

The most recent Trump appearance, according to Brigantis email was a Fox News interview with Trump about the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade on June 24.

Of the most recent stories, one is a Fox News story interviewing attendees at a Trump rally at Waukesha, Wisconsin, asking who they wanted to see on the 2024 presidential ticket. Most interviewees, unsurprisingly, answered Trump.

The other two are stories from the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Texas where Fox Digital reporters questioned Trump during his backstage gaggle in front of reporters prior to his keynote address at the conference.

Gingrich and Other Experts Weigh-In

David Keene, the former head CPACs parent organization from 1984 to 2011, the American Conservative Union, told The Epoch Times that while he didnt know if there was a ban on Trump, the news channel couldnt be all-Trump, all the time.

I think after 2016 they became too obsessed with becoming a Trump network, said Keene, who is a self-professed movement conservative who puts his stock in conservative ideas, not personalities.

Thats fine if you are just there to serve politicians. But its not okay if you are an idea-based, issues-based conservative communications organization, added Keene.

Keene noted that some criticism from conservatives, even some who supported Trump, was that the network was too devoted to Trump personally. From a business perspective that poses dangers to Fox.

Every politician goes through his time, and then its time for something else, noted Keene.

Media maven Adam Guillette, president of Accuracy in Media, a conservative media watchdog founded in 1969, warned that Trumps absence from Fox over the long term is connected to what he sees as Trumps waning popularity.

Less Trump on Fox News is both a cause and an effect of his declining popularity amongst conservative viewers and conservative activists, Guillette told The Epoch Times.

But it also might have the effect of giving viewers a respite from Trump that could ultimately set the stage for his comeback bid in 2024.

Trumps absence from social media has made American hearts grow fonder for him and his policies, said Guillette, while warning that the hiatus needs to be brief for Trump to remain important.

His absence from cable news will seriously undermine his power as a politician, he concluded.

Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the House and a notable Trump supporter, said he doesnt think that a Trump ban exists, and suggested that the former presidents apparent absence is just circumstancenot conspiracy.

My sense is Trump is so ubiquitous that he will end up back on Fox in short order, Gingrich told The Epoch Times.

The notion that the producers, especially of top Fox hosts, cant book the former president doesnt make sense to Gingrich.

I think Sean Hannity can have [Trump] on whenever he wants to, Gingrich said.

Jan. 6 Committee Hasnt Hurt Trump

One thing almost everyone agreed on is that the Jan. 6 committee hearings have virtually nothing to do with Trumps absence from Fox.

None of the principals interviewed found the hearings particularly effective at making the public believe that Trump has any criminal responsibility for the riots at the capitol.

They also generally agreed that Trump needs Fox and Fox needs Trump, if only because Trump and Fox both are unique and historic conservative franchises that broke through to constituencies that were being ignored.

Trump is the most successful political figure at endorsing candidates in American history, said Gingrich, a history professor.

Hard to Cover American Politics Without Trump

There are three things that make it difficultif not impossiblefor a news organization, whether liberal or conservative, to ignore Trump and pretend he doesnt exist, according to Gingrich.

No one in American politics can draw the size of crowd that he does, people love him because of the enemies he has made, and he is one of the most underrated public speakers in American politics, the former House speaker said.

Tell me who else can keep a crowd for an hour-and-a-half, said Gingrich, who noted that the more the left attacks Trump, the fonder conservatives become of the irascible Manhattan property developer.

Likewise, Keene said that he wouldnt advise anyone to get into a fight with Trump, noting that the former president has unprecedented support amongst both traditional and non-traditional conservatives.

But Morris warned that no matter the short-term reasons or objectives of an alleged Trump ban, in the longer term a ban would have the potential to harm Fox a great deal.

The Republican electorate is basically devoted to Trump if you look at the election returns [from the GOP primaries in the first week of August], you see that, said Morris, who noted that Fox competitor Newsmax is promoting Trump at every turn.

I think thats really going to hurt Fox a great deal, especially with the existence of Newsmax as a ready alternative, Morris concluded.

Whatever the cause of the Trump absence at Fox, it is likely just temporary, most of those interviewed agreed.

Its pretty hard to cover American politics without Trump, the former Speaker, Gingrich added.

The Epoch Times has reached out to Trumps office for comment.
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks with SemaConnect CEO Mahi Reddy during a visit to announce the Biden administrations Electric Vehicle Charging Action Plan, in Brandywine, Maryland, on Dec. 13, 2021. (Kevin Lamarque/Reuters)

Electric Vehicles May Present Major Problem During Natural Disaster Evacuations: Experts

Potential solutions include centralized charging strategies, better battery technology, and more hybrid vehicles

The push to transition the national road fleet to electric vehicles (EVs) is on and while increasingly popular with buyers, experts in the transportation space are examining potential problems with mass EV adoption.

One such issue involves EVs and evacuations during natural disasters.

A report from Transportation Research published in ScienceDirect headlined Can we evacuate from hurricanes with electric vehicles? found that Floridawhich often bears the force of hurricanesmay not have enough power to cope during an evacuation.

If the majority of the evacuating vehicles were EVs, Florida would face a serious challenge in power supply, the report said.

First responders work together in extinguishing the flames of a wildfire near the Irvine Cove neighborhood in Laguna Beach, Calif., on Feb. 10, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

It added that could affect six out of the nine main power authorities, especially those in mid-Florida, and could induce cascading failure of the entire power network throughout the state.

In California, the two main natural disasters are earthquakes and wildfires.

Both are short-notice events that have the potential to knock out the power grid with no warning, making it especially difficult, if not impossible, to charge a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), a case study from California Polytechnic State University found.

In 2020, sales of electric vehicles (EVs) reached a record 3 million, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). And, EV sales could increase to 23 million by 2030, thanks partly to the Biden administrations stated goal of half of all new vehicles sold in 2030 being zero-emissions vehicles.

The increase in EV adoption makes the issue of natural disaster evacuations more pressing.

However, according to a panel of experts at the 2022 National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), the problem has yet to be solved.

Posing the Question

What happens when people  run out of battery on the side of the road [during an emergency evacuation]? an NCSL conference attendee asked.

Early adoption is less than one percent. But when its 2035 or 2040 and were at 1520 percent, its a whole new level of problem to deal with.

Whats your vehicle evacuation plan at that point?

State Sen. Jeff Brandes (R-Fla.), one of the panelists for The Promise and Challenges of Electric Vehicles at NCSL, acknowledged the problem and said Florida was examining the issue. It did not yet have a solution.

State Sen. Faith Winter (D-Colo.) said a really creative company in Colorado was examining the feasibility of putting chargers in crates and deploying them like we deploy water, like we deploy firefighters. Winter said Colorado is aware of this issue and is looking for a solution.

Alex Schroeder, interim executive lead for the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, didnt attempt to answer the question.

During a Hurricane

In 2020, Dr Kairui Feng, a researcher at the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Princeton University, along with her colleagues Dr Ning Lin and Dr Siyuan Xian, released a report with Dr Mikhail Chester, the director of the Metis Center for Infrastructure and Sustainable Engineering at Arizona State University, on the problem of evacuating from hurricanes with EVs.

The team used Hurricane Irma (2017) for its evacuation model,

Hurricane Irma created the largest-scale evacuation in U.S. history, involving about 6.5 million people in Florida on mandatory evacuation orders and, consequently, 4 million evacuating vehicles.

Severe travel delays happened throughout the state due to traffic jams; some highways [with a 75 mph speed limit] were experiencing a 15 mph peak traffic speed under a tripled traffic volume, compared to the usual conditions.

Evacuations from major cities could prove problematic during major natural disasters. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Assuming the movement of the cars would be the same, researchers examined the electricity demands if the evacuating vehicles were EVs and compared that to the power providers in Florida.

The simulation result found that in some areas the power demand would significantly exceed the capacity, but others areas would hold up better in the short-term due to drivers charging at home.

As batteries drained and needed to recharge, however, the simulation showed concerning results.

When the exodus reached inland Florida and batteries are depleted, the power service companies there would face enormous electricity pressure, and the EV power demand would rapidly exceed their safety margins.

Indeed, the report found that some power companies would experience a power shortage of 400 megawatts to 1000MW, meaning between 35 to 45 percent of vehicles would receive power, and 55 to 65 percent wouldnt.

Further, while power companies in cities such as Tallahassee and Gainesville would initially be capable of supplying power, once demand on other grids surpassed supply, there would be a larger-scale cascading failure in the power network lasting up to three days.

People leave with supplies outside a Home Depot store in Miami, Fla,, as they prepare for Hurricane Irma, Sept. 7, 2017. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

The reports abstract states, The increasing usage of electrical vehicles might not meet the safety requirement of massive hurricane evacuations, which may happen more frequently in the future climate.

Policymakers need to consider the evacuation problem as EVs are increasingly adopted in disaster-prone regions. Potential solutions include developing centralized charging strategies, improving battery technology, and adopting hybrid vehicles in addition to EVs.

In response to the critique of EVs not being suitable for evacuations during hurricanes, the EV advocacy site EV Resource wrote, While power outages are a problem during and after hurricanes, there arent electricity shortages before the storm.

In EV Resources opinion, people can charge before a storm, and that charge should be sufficient to reach safety.

EVs dont sit and burn fuel. The horror stories of people being stuck in traffic for 12 hours and running out of gas simply arent a problem for EVs and hybrids. Even for long stays in traffic, EVs can run for a long time by shutting off non-essentials like air conditioning.

Neither the Electrification Coalition nor the Eclectic Vehicle Association returned The Epoch Times request for comment on evacuation solutions.

Fires or Earthquakes

EV Resource didnt provide data to back up the above assertions on their site. Moreover, while hurricanes usually have advanced warnings, fires and earthquakes often dont, as pointed out in The Use of Electric Cars in Short-Notice Evacuations: A Case Study of Californias Natural Disasters.

Further, the case studies authorsRoxanne Peterson and Mohamed Awwad of the Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Department at California Polytechnic State Universitypoint out, Short-notice evacuations, such as those caused by wildfires and earthquakes, may lead to stall-outs, resulting in increased traffic and accidents.

Traffic is diverted off of the 71 freeway during the Blue Ridge Fire in Chino Hills, Calif., on Oct. 27, 2020. (David McNew/Getty Images)

According to the case study, EVs have a range of 100 to 200 miles, and full recharging can take anywhere from three to 12 hours. Fast charging is quicker, but still takes up to 30 minutes.

In the case of an emergency evacuation charging delays can create serious problems in evacuations leading to increased traffic and traveling delays as EVs potentially block lanes.

The report said, Californias two main natural disasters are earthquakes and wildfires.

Both are short-notice events that have the potential to knock out the power grid with no warning, making it especially difficult, if not impossible, to charge a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV).

More than 2 million properties in California are at extreme risk from wildfires, making up about half of all properties at extreme risk from wildfires.
Enough: House GOP Pledges Investigation of DOJ With November Win After FBI Raids Trumps Mar-a-Lago

House GOP leaders have pledged to take action on the weaponized politicization of the Department of Justice (DOJ) when Republicans take back the House in the midterm elections, after federal agents raided former President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago property on Monday.

Ive seen enough, House Minority Leader Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) in a statement late Monday. The Department of Justice has reached an intolerable state of weaponized politicization.

When Republicans take back the House, we will conduct immediate oversight of this department, follow the facts, and leave no stone unturned, McCarthy added.

Attorney General Garland: preserve your documents and clear your calendar, McCarthy said.

McCarthys comment came after the FBI raided Trumps Mar-a-Lago property on Monday. Trump has characterized the raid as prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical left Democrats who desperately dont want [him] to run for President in 2024.

Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Ranking Member on the House Judiciary Committee, which provides oversight over the DOJ, called on House Judiciary Committee Chair Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) to bring FBI Director Christopher Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland onto the House floor for questioning on Friday.

What was on the warrant? What were you really doing? What were you looking for? Why not talk to President Trump and have him give the information youre after? Jordan asked in an interview with Fox on Monday night. We deserve answers now, and this Friday would be a good time.

Jerry Nadler: call up Christopher Wray, call up Merrick Garland, bring them in front of the House Judiciary Committee, so we ask them the questions that the American people deserve the answers to.

Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.), House Minority Whip, called the raid the weaponization of the FBI by Bidens DOJ against his political opponent.

Lets be clear: This is a brazen weaponization of the FBI by Bidens DOJ against his political opponentwhile giving their political allies free passes, Scalise said in a statement published late Monday. Its exactly why the IRS shouldnt get an army of 87,000 more agents.

House Republicans will hold them accountable next year, the lawmaker added.

Rep. Stefanik, chair of the House Republican Conference, called Monday a dark day in American history and said that the political weaponization of the FBI and Department of Justice is an actual threat to democracy.

There is a reason that Americans no longer trust these agencies, Stefanik said in a Monday statement. This is the same corrupt agency that illegally fabricated FISA warrants, knowingly deceived Americans about Russian collusion for years, and weaponized itself to perpetuate this hoax with their all-too-eager mainstream media accomplices.

There must be an immediate investigation and accountability into Joe Biden and his Administrations weaponizing this department against their political opponentsthe likely 2024 Republican candidate for President of the United States, the congresswoman added.

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), vice chair of the House Republican Conference and a part of Trumps legal defense team during the Democrats 2019 attempted impeachment of Trump, said Biden and Garland completely weaponized the DOJ and eroded the peoples faith in our system of justice.

Todays raid on the former Presidents home in the middle of an election season looks like another egregious & unprecedented abuse of power, Johnson said in a statement on Monday.

We will restore order & accountability as soon as we regain the gavels for a Republican majority in November. It cant happen soon enough! he added.
The logo of the World Health Organization is seen at the WHO headquarters in Geneva, on June 11, 2009. (Anja Niedringhaus/AP Photo)

Essential Questions to the WHO on Pandemic Preparedness, Response

Commentary

The World Health Organization (WHO) is seeking public input on the scope of a planned internationally binding pandemic agreement. Before proceeding, however, fundamental questions should be answered on the underlying justification for such an agreement, its potential benefits and harms, and the WHOs competence for the guiding role.

Rather than rushing to address the next pandemic, we suggest that the world requires a return to calm, rational thought, and a transparent discussion based upon the public health principles embedded within the WHOs constitution (pdf).

The Example of COVID-19

The response to COVID-19 has exposed many flaws in the systems of global public health. Economies have been left struggling and inequality has increased, as the wealth of low- and middle-income earners is transferred to the wealthiest members of society.

National debt has risen while gross domestic product (GDP) has fallen, cementing future poverty. The education of a generation of children has been severely disrupted, even though it was known from the beginning that they were at little risk from COVID-19 itself. Global food security is declining because of continuing supply chain disruption, most notable in low-income counties.

As is often the case, those with the least are suffering the most.

Governments and the WHO have rightly stated that pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR) needs an overhaul. Consequently, in December 2021, the World Health Assembly established an intergovernmental negotiating body (INB) to draft a new international PPR agreement under the Constitution of the World Health Organizationreferred to as the WHO CAII (pdf). The aim is to have the WHO CAII agreed upon by May 2024, and for it to become binding under international law.

The proposed agreement risks codifying the WHOs ability to replicate the response to COVID-19 for any future outbreak. The organization is seeking greater powers to control the response to pandemics and to declare public health emergencies more easily. Increased disease surveillance will identify disease outbreaks more frequently, before the severity is known.

The WHO CAII will ultimately give the WHO the ability to dictate, and drive, national and global responses to outbreaks that it classifies as threats.

A Time for Reflection

Before proceeding, it would seem pertinent to stop and ask whether more centralized control of global public health is the right solution. Its essential to determine whether the COVID-19 response was better than preexisting, evidence-based approaches, described in the WHO 2019 pandemic influenza guidelines (pdf), intended to be adapted to local and regional needs.

It must also be determined whether the pandemic preparedness bureaucracy that the WHO plans to build is the best use of available resources, given competing health priorities and the historical rarity of severe pandemics. Giving unelected individuals power over the lives, future, and freedom of others may not be consistent with human rights norms, ethics, or the WHOs own mandate to promote global public health.

While the core business of the WHO is to seek answers to such questions, the organization has failed to do this. It resorts instead to vacuous soundbites and slogans such as No one is safe unless all are safe and vaccine equity, which wont provide answers to these fundamental questions.

The WHOs basis for funding increased pandemic preparednessthat pandemics are becoming more frequentdoesnt appear to stand up to scrutiny. The organization lists only five pandemics in the past 120 years, most causing fewer deaths than expected every year from tuberculosis. Whats more, the WHOs definition of a pandemic is unclear, with the organization failing to define any degree of severity that would trigger its response.

The WHO also asserts that pandemic risk is increasing because of increased wildlife contact, despite a steady decline in wild animal populations and humanitys long history of living closely with animals.

The WHO 2019 pandemic influenza guidelines (pdf) emphasize the dangers posed by border closures, disruptive social distancing measures, and travel restrictions, particularly on the poorest populations; the WHO hasnt explained why that ceased to be a concern in 2020. The costs of lockdowns, characterized by the WHO as costs of COVID-19, are used as justification for increasing global disease surveillance. But does the data even back this up?

Why were such downturns not seen in previous pandemics (195758, 196869), which were skewed toward younger, working-aged people? Are disease outbreaks really increasing, or is this a classic case of seek and ye shall find?

Attempts to reduce the risk of death from pandemics are generally considered a public good, although mass malnutrition, increasing inequality, increased overall mortality, discrimination, and entrenched poverty are not. Public health interventions are supposed to be proportional to the level of threat, to ensure that resources arent diverted from areas of greater need. Fundamental human rights should be upheld.

However, the disproportionate diversion of resources, and widespread abuse of human rights, is precisely what occurred in the response to COVID-19; the WHO CAII risks entrenching these abuses and misallocations as a permanent feature of global public health. The WHO is pursuing a policy agenda that runs counter to its founding principles.

Who Is the WHOs Priority?

Throughout most of its history, the WHO was largely funded by member states. This public funding model reduced the likelihood that major conflicts of interest would influence policy development. The WHO was formed to represent the needs of the populations of the world, rather than private foundations and corporations in the health field.

Obvious challenges have arisen now that a significant part of the WHOs funding, including in pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response, is provided by private entities with direct commercial interest in this field.

The people of the world may benefit more if the WHO returned to its founding principles and focused on benefitting all people, irrespective of the needs of its corporate partners. It must also reestablish its rigorous approach to evidence and urgently address growing conflicts of interest.

The draft WHO CAII states that policies and interventions on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response should be supported by the best-available scientific evidence and adapted to take into account resources and capacities at subnational and national levels.

We completely agree.

Questions to the WHOs Negotiating Body

With this in mind, the following open letter to the WHO has been written by Pandata.org.

Pandemic preparedness must be evidence-based and proportionate, balancing potential benefits with costs, including collateral costs to health and wider society. Therefore, PANDA [Pandemics Data & Analytics], an organization of multi-disciplinary professionals, suggests the following questions must first be addressed:

What is the true frequency of pandemics?

The WHO lists only five pandemics in the past 120 years, with the highest mortality before antibiotics and modern medicine.

Is the proposed expenditure proportionate to the health burden from pandemics?

Other infectious diseases, including malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, non-communicable diseases, and malnutrition, have exacted higher burdens than COVID-19 in the past two years (based on life years lost). The WHO also considers mental and societal well-being within health.

Does the response fit with the WHO principles regarding community empowerment and control?

These principles of horizontal over vertical approaches were reiterated by the WHO at Astana, Kazakhstan, in 2018.

Should non-state actors with conflicts of interest be excluded from interim negotiation processes?

The pandemic treaty zero-draft includes a role for private and corporate entities, who fund the WHO directly and through partners in pandemic response. Such conflicts of interest were formerly avoided.

Did the response to COVID-19 reduce the overall disease burden, or increase it?

Previous WHO recommendations cautioned against measures used against COVID-19. WHO partners report high collateral mortality, including among children.

A full, transparent, and inclusive review process is required, utilizing the WHOs established evidence-based guideline approach, and incorporating assessed strength of evidence. This review should occur prior to considering further application of these new approaches to pandemic management.

What Next?

If these questions are taken seriously by the WHO, its unlikely that the WHO CAII would proceed in anything like its currently projected form. Admitting the low frequency and very low burden of pandemics over the past centuryand the growing burden of other diseaseswould underline the unethical nature of diverting resources and attention away from areas of far greater need. However, admitting this would remove a potentially extremely lucrative future for the international public health community, and these people know where their bread is buttered.

As the draft WHO CAII suggests, the global public health community should be reflecting on the lessons learned from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and reiterating the determination to achieve health equity through action on social determinants of health and well-being by a comprehensive intersectoral approach.

Instead, the WHO appears to have abandoned the social determinants of health, and is seeking to entrench the mistakes made in the response to COVID-19under the banner of equity, inclusivity, sustainability, and diversity. If it achieves its aim, global public health will continue to impoverish and harm the worlds poor, while driving a historic wealth transfer to the wealthiest in society, for whom the COVID-19 response has proven so rewarding.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

David Bell Follow David Bell, senior scholar at the Brownstone Institute, is a U.S.-based public health physician. After working in internal medicine and public health in Australia and the UK, he worked in the World Health Organization as program head for malaria and febrile diseases at the Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics in Geneva, and as director of global health technologies at Intellectual Ventures Global Good Fund in Bellevue, Wash. He consults on biotech and global health.
Our Family Cruise

Were back, as mentioned in my article just last week where I shared our 5 Favourite Things from our First Family Cruise on the Carnival Magic, Im now sharing more on the Carnival Magic ports of call. This was a 7 day Western Caribbean Cruise aboard the Carnival Magic that we were on for one week last month (July) and it was supposed to have stops in the ports of Belize, Cozumel, Costa Maya and Mahogany Bay Roatan (Honduras). Now I say was supposed to because we didnt make it to Mahogany Bay due to a passengers medical emergency we had to re-route.

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

The good news is we got to see Key West, somewhere my family and I have never been to before and it was a lovely stop indeed. We took so many photos that I couldnt possibly put them all in this article so Im creating an online photo album for each port along with more information. Just look for each album after each port of call description below, well add them as they are created. Now on to the fun! These are not in any particular order.

Weve been to Cozumel twice before but never as part of a cruise. We like Cozumel, the water is clear and a beautiful blue as its the Caribbean Sea and its a small town feel. The port has been set up of course for the cruise ships so theres lots of touristy type of things but if you have the time and the inclination you can take a cab into town for $8-$10 USD,

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Club Cozumel Carnival Magic

We decided to head out with other families from our group to the beach to enjoy some sand and sea and of course some snorkelling. As we were a large group they split us up in two vans but the cost was very reasonable and it included transportation and entrance to this beach area. It was less than $25 for the three of us.

This was one section of the beach. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

The water did not disappoint, we went to this family-friendly area that had a beach, pool, food and other amenities. If you did not have lifejackets, snorkels or flippers you could borrow them for free, you just had to give them your ship card so they would know you return them. It was a hot day so the water felt great and oh was it ever so clear and beautiful. Oh that was a ton of fun for my hubby, daughter and I, the water was so clear and if you could keep yourself underwater lots of fishes to see.

Yes, this is a photo we took under the water of the fish we could catch on camera that is. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

We spent the day at the beach snorkelling and took about an hour to walk around the port of Cozumel. We did pick up a bottle or two of vanilla, something I always get when we go to Mexico. It was a fun day for all of the families to spend it at the beach.

Another photo we took while under the water in Cozumel. Look at how clear that water is and no, we didnt use a flash or anything. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Another photo we took while under the water in Cozumel. Look at how clear that water is and no we didnt use a flash or anything.

Belize

I must admit that I did not previously know that Belize was a country, not sure what I thought before but that was news to me. Its a lovely port and out of all the ones we went to its the only one that is what they call a tender port. The Carnival Magic and other ships, dont dock at a pier, we had to disembark while out a bit from land and be brought in by tender boats. That in itself was a bit of an adventure, a new experience for us.

GO HERE to see all our photos of Belize and more about our Altun Ha Maya Site and River Wallace excursion as well.

This is the view of our ship as were on the tender boat heading to the port of Belize. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

In Belize we had signed up for our first excursion. You can sign up before you board the Carnival Magic or any ship or while on board. Now I will warn you that you have to decide in advance for the most part whether or not youre going to do an excursion or explore Belize. The more popular excursions can fill up quickly and from our experience you dont get to do both. We selected the Altun Ha Mayan site and River Wallace tour excursion which pretty much took up our entire time in Belize. It was the more family-friendly option of the excursions, especially for those with younger children.

Panoramic photo of our boat for the river tour. Everyone on this boat was part of our same group. Lots of kids as you can see. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Panoramic photo of our boat for the river tour. Everyone on this boat was part of our same group. Lots of kids as you can see.

We knew everyone on this boat as they are all a part of the travel writers group that was invited on this cruise along with myself. Its definitely a lot of fun to go with those you know but even if you dont know them its interesting. Our tour guide Simone had a great sense of humour and we learned about Belize as we went along. It was a lot of jungle along the river with some homes in certain parts. They had hoped we could see some of the monkeys but that day we were out of luck.

We did see some different birds like this one and bats (not in this photo). Check out our Belize photo album for more photos along the river. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

We did see some different birds like this one and bats (not in this photo). Check out our Belize photo album for more photos along the river.

We saw lots of Iguanas on shore. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

We had a stop after the river boat tour and hand lunch before heading out in an air conditioned bus to the site of Altun-Ha. Just a warning the boat tour is a few hours and little kids may need to use the washroom. I would suggest not drinking a bunch of water as there technically is not a washroom stop for a few hours but we had to make an unscheduled one as we had lots of younger children on our boat.

Here we are at Altun-Ha and our group is at the top there behind us. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Here we are at Altun-Ha and our group is at the top there behind us.

It is hot and humid in Belize but it is beautiful. We took rests in the shade and Ill admit we did not climb to the top as Ive been to Chichen-Itza which much taller and thats enough for me. Although Im told this one was quite easy and it didnt look bad, I just didnt feel the need to go to the top.

Another panoramic shot. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

The boat ride was fun and we got to different parts of Belize, learned some history and saw the Altun-Ha site but I definitely would have loved more time to explore.

Key West, Florida

The unexpected stop of the Carnival Magic to Key West brought us to an area that had more to offer than we realized. Theres a tour of Hemingways house with the all the cats, a little aquarium, markets and of course the birthplace of Key Lime Pie one of our favourite desserts ever. We went to the aquarium, explored the market, had some key lime pie and then spent some time on the ship. Its a nice port with lots of shopping but it is a bit expensive.

It was grey and cloudy when we first got to port and it rained a bit. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

It was grey and cloudy when we first got to port and it rained a bit.

There are tons of stores, a market area, many restaurants and tours to be done in Key West. Its a pretty area, I liked the charm of the town, the older feel of it if you will.

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

We didnt go in the museum, there was lots to see just walking around.

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

We did go to the aquarium which is small but my daughter enjoyed. I like that they had touch pools and that you could get a good look at the sea creatures that were there. They do a lot of rescue and rehabilitation at the Key West Aquarium.

We got to see Nurse Sharks. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Heres a group of the Nurse Sharks. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Sea Turtles. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Costa Maya, Mexico

Watch for our post to come soon on our full experience in Costa Maya along more photos.

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Costa Maya was our last port and also where we had our second excursion at the Lost Maya Kingdom Adventure Park. This one is perfect for families with kids who just want to relax by a pool and let the kids go swimming, enjoy a lazy river or a variety of water slides.

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

We got there about 9am so it wasnt busy yet, however even when we left in the early afternoon it never felt packed. There were different areas with lounge chairs and because there were so many things to do people were spread out and not really crowded in one area. The only thing I have to say is that the ladies washroom I went to the toilet was tricky, it eventually flushed but took forever. Things parents need to know.

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Just one of the many waterslides. My whole family enjoyed it and from what I saw everyone who went had a good time. There never seemed to be any long line-ups no matter which ride they went on.

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

Lazy River anyone? There was also zip-lining and oh so many waterslides from ones for the little kids to those who like to get their adrenaline pumping. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

We enjoyed this excursion because it was relaxing mixed with going on rides whenever we wanted. We spent half the day there and then went around the port to see what they had to offer. There were dolphin rides that we saw there but they were in a small pool and Ive seen much better facilities in other areas. The water however was beautiful and there was a rocky beach area that was nice, once you walked over the rocks and got into the water.

(Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

My daughter said that the Lost Maya Kingdom Adventure Park was her favourite excursion and her favourite stop of the entire cruise. I liked the lovely scenery and we did some souvenir shopping for my daughter there. Overall its a lovely spot and I would consider going there again to see more of the area.

View of Costa Maya from the ship. (Courtesy of Michelle Sutter)

There you have it all of the Carnival Magic port of calls that we got to see and enjoy on our first family cruise. It was a fabulous family vacation that we wont ever forget.

A big thanks to SJ Consulting and Carnival Cruise Lines for inviting us to be a part of the #LetsGoCarnival retreat. We enjoyed our first cruise and cant wait to go on another one. We are cruise converts.

This article was originally published on powered-by-mom.com

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A local law enforcement officer in front of the home of former President Donald Trump at Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla., on Aug. 9, 2022. (Giorgio Viera/AFP via Getty Images)

FBI Agents Were Seeking Classified Records, Took Boxes of Documents From Trump Home: Lawyer

The FBI agents who raided former President Donald Trumps Florida home were looking for certain records, according to a lawyer for Trump who was on the scene while agents were at the resort.

Theyre looking for presidential records, what they deemed to be presidential records, and anything that could potentially be classified, attorney Christina Bobb told The Epoch Times on Aug. 9.

We had been very cooperative with them before. And its unclear to me why they went to such drastic measures to do this. But they did. And as far as the probable cause goes, they wouldnt give that to us.

In mid-January, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) arranged for the transport of 15 boxes from Mar-a-Lago that the archives said contained presidential records. Under the Presidential Records Act, the records should have been transferred in January 2021 as Trump left office, and some of the boxes contained classified information, the archives said in a statement at the time.

NARA officials didnt respond to an Aug. 9 inquiry by The Epoch Times.

About two dozen FBI agents arrived around 9 a.m. on Aug. 8 and remained at Mar-a-Lago, which is in Palm Beach, for about 10 hours.

Agents initially resisted showing Bobb the warrant but ultimately did. However, they wouldnt allow any representatives of the former president to oversee the search, she said. The justification for the search also remains under seal.

Trumps legal team plans to ask the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida to unseal the search warrant affidavit, which would outline why authorities asked for the warrant.

We dont know what the probable cause is, Bobb said. I dont think there is a good cause to do such a drastic thing. But they did.

The FBI has declined to comment. The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence havent returned requests for comment. The White House has said the DOJ is independent and that President Joe Biden and others in the White House were not notified of the raid ahead of time.

Peaceful

Agents kept Mar-a-Lago neat while they were searching for documents, with one even picking up trash, according to Bobb. The agents took a handful of boxes of documents, she said.

I dont think that there was anything incriminating. I dont think there was anything of substance. So Im sure that they will say otherwise. But well have to wait and see what they come up with, but it was all paper. I hear the conspiracy theories and the rumors that there were other artifacts or something takenit was all paper, she said.

Agents previously had visited the resort in June, and were given access to a storage facility there, according to Bobb.

Nothing had been hidden and nothing had been kept secret from them, which makes this all more all the more ridiculous, she said.

Donald Trump didnt commit a crime, she said, adding that prosecutors wouldnt be able to show that the former president knew about the boxes taken by the FBI.

They would have to lay the foundation that Donald Trump actually packed up his own office, and Donald Trump was actually the custodian of these records, and that he actually moved them.

If the DOJ decides to press charges against Trump, the effort wont get very far, she predicted.

I just dont see it making a bit of difference. I think President Trump is going to most likely run for reelection, she said. I cant wait until he does. And he will be the next president of the United States.

Correction: A previous version of this article inaccurately listed the location of Mar-a-Lago. It is in Palm Beach. The Epoch Times regrets the error.

Zachary Stieber Reporter Follow Zachary Stieber covers U.S. and world news. He is based in Maryland.
FBI Director Christopher Wray speaks during a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on the fiscal year 2023 budget for the FBI at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on May 25, 2022. (Bonnie Cash/Pool via Getty Images)

FBI Director Wray Calls Report of Bureaus Alleged Mishandling of Hunter Biden Probe Deeply Troubling

At a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Aug. 4, FBI Director Christopher Wray said he found deeply troubling a whistleblowers report alleging a concerted effort within the agency to discredit accurate information about Hunter Biden during the bureaus investigation in 2020.

The report claiming widespread efforts within the FBI to downplay or mishandle information about the son of President Joe Biden was made public by Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), the ranking member on the Senate Judiciary Committee, in a letter (pdf) he sent to Wray and Attorney General Merrick Garland on July 25.

The allegations provided to my office appear to indicate that there was a scheme in place among certain FBI officials to undermine derogatory information connected to Hunter Biden by falsely suggesting it was disinformation, the letter says, noting that the volume and consistency of these allegations substantiate their credibility.

Based on the timeline set forth in the letter, the FBI developed information in 2020 about Hunter Bidens criminal financial and related activity.

Grassley pointed to Washington Field Office Assistant Special Agent in Charge Timothy Thibault, accusing him of potentially violating federal laws and rules established by the FBI. To wit, Grassley alleged there is evidence that Thibault had partisan bias when handling investigations into the Trump campaign and Hunter Biden.

Dodging the Question

At the hearing, when asked by Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) to confirm the authenticity of the allegations, Wray dodged the question.

I want to be very careful not to interfere with ongoing personnel matters, Wray said, but admitted that the disclosures were deeply troubling.

Also according to whistleblowers, the FBI came into possession of information about Hunter Bidens criminal financial and related activity in 2020, which prompted FBI supervisory intelligence analyst Brian Auten to open an assessment in August 2020.

An FBI headquarters team subsequently used the assessment to improperly discredit negative Hunter Biden information as disinformation and caused the bureaus investigation on Hunter Biden to cease.

Thibault allegedly ordered the matter closed without providing a valid reason as required by FBI, the letter said. FBI officials, including Thibault, then tried to improperly mark the matter in FBI systems so that it could not be opened in the future.

On the Senate floor, Wray appeared to deflect the question posed by Kennedy of whether Thibault is, or was, working on the FBI investigation of Hunter Biden.

The investigation that youre referring to is going toand I need to be a little bit careful because were talking about an ongoing investigationis being run out of our Baltimore field office, working with the Delaware U.S. attorney whos a holdover from the prior administration, Wray responded.

Potential Violation of the Hatch Act

In May, Justice Department Inspector General Michael Horowitz said (pdf) Thibault may have violated the Hatch Act, which limits certain political activities of federal employees, citing his posting and reposting articles slamming former President Trump and then-Attorney General William Barr on social media.

His remarks came following Grassleys request to have Thibault investigated, based on the concerns that the agent had demonstrated a pattern of active public partisanship, in violation of his ethical obligation as an FBI employee.

Asked to comment on Thibaults partisan social media posts, Wray said, I cant sit here and quote chapter and verse on an individuals social media posts.

I will tell you that what youre describing is not representative of the FBI that I see up close every day in this country, where I see patriots working their tails off with tremendous integrity and objectivity.

The whistleblower disclosure came to light amid reports that the federal investigation, led by the Delaware U.S. attorneys office, was nearing a critical juncture.

Frank Fang and Jack Phillips contributed to this report.
Local law enforcement officers in front of the home of former U.S. President Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla., on Aug. 9, 2022. (Giorgio Viera/AFP via Getty Images)

FBIs Trump Home Raid Improperly Intrusive, Circumstances Indicate: Lawyers

Theres reason to suspect that the FBI search of the Florida residence of former President Donald Trump was improperly intrusive, according to several lawyers. The raid prompted a rebuke from Trump and Republicans more broadly and further escalated political tensions in the nation.

About two dozen FBI agents entered Trumps Palm Beach resort of Mar-a-Lago at about 9 a.m. on Aug. 8 and left about 10 hours later with a handful of boxes of documents, one of Trumps attorneys on the scene, Christina Bobb, told The Epoch Times.

I didnt actually get to oversee the search, they wouldnt let anybody see what they were doing, she said.

It isnt clear what legal basis the FBI had for the raid. The agents had a search warrant signed by a judge. However, the affidavit explaining the basisits probable causewas filed under seal, and Trumps lawyers werent allowed to examine it, Bobb said.

In general, the agents were looking for what they deemed to be presidential records, she said.

I dont think there was anything of substance.

Trumps legal team will take steps to obtain the affidavit, according to Bobb.

There has been a dispute between the National Archives and Trump about whether he has documents that should be stored at the archives under the U.S. Presidential Records Act.

Trump has been cooperative on that front and had previously invited the FBI to Mar-a-Lago to examine the White House records he had in storage at the time, Bobb said.

Nothing had been hidden, and nothing had been kept secret from them, which makes this all the more ridiculous, she said.

Potentially Illegal

Im stunned and dismayed, Marc Ruskin, a 27-year FBI veteran and former federal prosecutor, told The Epoch Times. The disregard for traditional norms and apparent lack of concern with the appearance of impropriety is indicative of an abandonment of even a veneer of independence and objectivity.

Former federal prosecutor Mike Davis went even further, saying the raid may have been illegally invasive.

Under the case law, you cant do a home raid if you can secure the documents through less intrusive means, he told Bannons War Room on Aug. 9.

The FBI had to first determine that requests for the documents or even subpoenas wouldnt be sufficient, said Davis, who formerly advised Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) on judicial nominations and now heads The Article III Project.

Theres zero evidence that Trump wouldnt have cooperated, Davis said.

There was no allegation or evidence that he [Trump] was destroying any of this evidence or putting it into the wrong hands. This is banana republic-level tactics from the Biden Justice Department, he said.

Even if Trump took classified documents, he took possession of them when he was still chief executive and had the authority to declassify them, according to Davis.

Bobb suggested that the invocation of classified documents was a disingenuous attempt of shrouding this in a national security blanket.

They dont want to disclose what theyre doing, because what theyre doing is wrong. And so they want to hide it behind the premise of Oh, its a matter of national security and classified documents, so we cant disclose to you what were doing or why were doing it. But just trust us. Were not lying to you, she said. Well, no, the American people arent going to stand for that anymore.

Even if the DOJ tried to charge Trump with withholding documents, it wouldnt hold up because the statute in question requires a willful violation, and Trump would have had to have some malicious intent to take specific documents, according to Bobb.

They would have to lay the foundation that Donald Trump actually packed up his own office or ordered somebody what specifically to take, she said.

History of Missing Documents

If Trump had documents that should go to the archives, it would add him to a lineup of former government officials.

Former FBI Director James Comey took his handwritten notes when he was fired by Trump in 2017. His home wasnt raided. He handed the notes to FBI agents who came to interview him.

The Obama administration didnt just fail to hand over documents; tens of thousands of its documents went missing or were destroyed. No homes were raided.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton failed to hand over tens of thousands of emails and documents from her server, claiming that they were of a personal nature. The FBI was able to retrieve some of the documents, revealing that many were work-related. Moreover, the documents were under congressional subpoena at the time when a Clinton aide deleted them.

Immediate Skepticism

The raid prompted an immediate wave of skepticism, particularly because the FBI and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have a history of misrepresenting, breaking protocol, and even forging evidence in their case against Trump and members of his campaign.

After six years of unfounded, absurd investigations of President Trump, the presumption is that any investigation of President Trump is politically motivated, and the burden of proof is on FBI/DOJ to prove otherwise, Will Chamberlain, senior counsel at the Internet Accountability Project, wrote in an Aug. 9 Twitter post.

In 2017, the FBI and DOJ obtained two extensions of a spying warrant on former Trump campaign aide Carter Page even though the warrant was based on false or unsubstantiated allegations. The FBI later acknowledged that spying based on the extensions was illegal.

The FBI also has a history of harsh treatment of people associated with Trump. His aides have been arrested at gunpoint, handcuffed, and perp-walked, and their homes and offices have been raided in pursuit of trivial or nonviolent offenses, even when the targets were cooperating with the government.

Shoe on the Other Foot

The Trump raid increased the already polarized political playing field, as Republicans can now argue that home raids of former presidents are acceptable.

Theyre setting a very dangerous precedent where you can do a home raid of a former president of the United States, Davis said, noting that such a thing has never happened in our 250 years as a republic.

Already, Republican lawmakers are promising to subject the DOJ and the FBI to intense scrutiny, with the expectation of reclaiming the majority in the House after the November midterms.

When Republicans take back the House, we will conduct immediate oversight of this department, follow the facts, and leave no stone unturned, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) said in an Aug. 8 statement. Attorney General Garland: preserve your documents and clear your calendar.

Judges Epstein Connection

The search warrant was issued by U.S. Magistrate Judge Bruce Reinhart in the Southern District of Florida. Reinhart was a senior prosecutor in the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Florida when the office reached a nonprosecution agreement with Jeffrey Epstein, who was later indicted for sex trafficking children and died by apparent suicide in a New York jail.

Upon leaving office, Reinhart went into private practice and represented multiple Epstein associates and employees in civil cases against Epstein by his alleged victims.

Reinhart was appointed a magistrate judge in 2018 by the district judges in the Southern District of Florida.

The warrant was issued on Aug. 5, the day after FBI Director Christopher Wray testified to the Senate Judiciary Committee and was questioned about multiple whistleblower reports alleging the politicization of the bureau. Wray cut the questioning short because he said he had to urgently travel. Flight records indicate he flew in the FBI private jet to his vacation retreat in the Adirondacks, according to New York Post columnist Miranda Devine.

Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the time around which the search of Donald Trumps residence started. The Epoch Times regrets the error.

Update: This article has been updated with a comment from Marc Ruskin.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland speaks to reporters before heading to Question Period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on June 23, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Justin Tang)

Freeland Says Feds Working Hard to Deliver Dental Plan as NDP Threatens to Pull Out of Deal

Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland says her government is doing its best to deliver on a promise to introduce a national dental care plan after the NDP threatened to reverse its pledge to keep the Liberals in power if a plan isnt in place before year-end.

Providing dental care to children and families earning less than $90,000 a year, to children under 12, was a clear commitment we made in the budget, Freeland said on Aug. 9 after a tour of an automotive parts manufacturer in Etobicoke, Ont.

Its a commitment we made in our agreement, in our confidence and supply agreement with the NDP. Were working hard to deliver that.

The Liberals and the NDP entered into the agreement in March to keep the minority Liberals in power until 2025. In exchange, the NDP was promised the establishment of national pharmacare and dental plans.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh told the Toronto Star this week his party would break the deal if a new dental program for children under 12 is not implemented before the end of the year.

I made it really clear to the prime minister directly that this has to happen, Singh reportedly told the Star. Theres just no option for them. This has to happen. The deal stands on this.

The Liberals allocated $5.3 billion in Budget 2022 for the dental care plan. After being made available to children under 12 in families making under $90,000 a year, it will be expanded in 2023 to those under 18 years old, seniors, and persons with disabilities, with full implementation expected in 2025.

The Parliamentary Budget Officer said in a June legislative note the cost of the program is likely closer to $9 billion.

Tories have been critical of the deal made between the Liberals and the NDP, accusing them of implementing a spend-and-tax budget.

Despite some speculation that the government would implement a stop-gap measure if its unable to roll out the program, Singh has said there would be no room for any exception.

Freeland hinted there are obstacles to delivering the program on time as she referred to the process to come to agreements with provinces on childcare.

Delivering new services to Canadians is complicated and I think Canadians understand that, she said.

The Liberal government has been under fire for its delivery of existing services this summer, with much of the criticism related to the issue of travel, whether it be delays in obtaining a passport or getting processed at an airport.
Wyoming Republican congressional candidate Harriet Hageman on Aug. 5 addresses voters in Basin, a town of less than 1,300 in Big Horn County, as part of her near-40,000 mile campaign to unseat three-term Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) in their Aug. 16 GOP primary. (Courtesy of Hageman For Wyoming)

Hageman-Cheney Costliest Congressional Race in Wyoming History, but Money May Not Matter

CASPER, Wyo.More than $20 million has been collectively raised by the five candidates in Wyomings Aug. 16 Republican congressional primary, making it the most expensive U.S. House race in state history.

More than $15 million has been raised by just one of the hopefuls, embattled incumbent Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) Much of the money came from out-of-state sources, including $1.2 million from Californians and Democratic organizations.

But ultimately, those dollars may have little influence on changing Wyoming voters minds.

Despite the massive fundraising advantage, by all indications, Cheney is projected to lose her bid for a fourth term as Wyomings lone congressional representative to Harriet Hageman, a land-use and water-rights attorney from Fort Laramie who is backed by former President Donald Trump.

A June 15 survey found Hageman leading by more than 22 points over Cheney, who has incurred the wrath of Wyoming GOP officials, who censored and ousted from the state party. She was one of the 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach Trump and serves as co-chair of the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol breach.

Hageman has a hefty war chest herself, reporting more than $4.3 million in donations on July 27 campaign financial statements filed with the Federal Elections Commission (FEC).

In that filing, Hagemans campaign documents that it had $1.4 million in cash in mid-July.

That is a fraction of the $7.4 million cash on hand that Cheneys campaign reported on July 27.

Hageman has raised most of her funding from individual Wyoming residents and state-based organizations and has reiterated that statistic with gusto. The campaign cited an OpenSecrets.org analysis that found 96 percent of the $7.2 million Cheney had raised by then was from out-of-state donors. That pattern continues, Hagemans campaign says.

Hagemans July 27 FEC filing shows she received a combined $188,850 from 150 in-state individual donors between April 1 and June 30, more than 43 percent of her second quarter contributions. According to her campaign, Hageman raised $7 from Wyoming residents for every $1 Cheney took in.

The volume of out-of-state campaign donations that Cheney has received buttresses one of Hagemans key contentions that Cheney has spent little time in Wyoming, really lives in Virginia, and is out-of-touch with Equality State voters.

Liz Cheney has turned her back on us to pursue her own personal war with President Trump, and we are fed up with having no one to stand up for us in the House of Representatives against the disastrous policies of the Biden administration, Hageman said in July. When I am the next congresswoman from Wyoming, I will always defend our values and remember who hired me for the job.

The top group contributing to Hagemans campaign is the Wyoming Values Political Action Committee (PAC), which has received $500,000 from Trumps Save America PAC and spent more than $800,000 supporting her.

According to her July 27 FEC report, among out-of-state individual donations Hageman has collected is $5,000, the maximum amount allowable, from Trumps Save America PAC. She also received $5,000 from the Madison Project PAC, operated by former Rep. Jim Ryun (R-Kansas), and $1,000 from America Matters PAC, managed by conservative Southern California political activist Joy Miedecke.

Among out-of-state donations is more than $100,000 from the 80,000 followers nationwide of Florida attorney/blogger Jeff Childers Coffee & Covid blog. Hageman thanked them for their support in a July video.

Cheneys July 27 FEC filing shows top individual contributors are the Capital Group ($33,950) and Capital Group Companies ($26,400), related PACs that funnel 65 percent of their donations to Democratic candidates.

Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) speaks with supporters, including her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, during a private gathering in a Cheyenne home on Aug. 7. (Courtesy of Cheney For Wyoming)

Blackstone Group, which has contributed $23,450 to Cheneys campaign, has donated more than $20 million of the $25 million it has raised to GOP candidates.

Out-state-dollars are also funding in-state registered PACs supporting Cheney, filings show.

Wyomingites Defending Freedom and Democracy has raised nearly $200,000 in support of Cheney and is directing much of that money into inducing the states 78,000 registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters to cross-over in the open primary and vote for the incumbent in the GOP race.

Conservatives for a Strong America has spent $47,108 attacking Hageman as a false conservative, implying she is secretly in league with Cheney, and directing voters to the three other candidates in the race.

Among notable out-of-state Democratic donors contributing to Cheney: film producer Jeffrey Katzenberg and his wife, who have chipped in more than $43,000 to Cheney and PACs supporting her; LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman; and billionaire hedge fund manager Seth Klarman.

Since announcing her campaign to unseat Cheney in September, Hageman has crisscrossed Wyoming, logging nearly 40,000 miles in meeting and greeting voters in all 23 of the states counties.

Cheney, meanwhile, until late July, had been in Washington, D.C., engaged in the January 6 investigation into the Capitol breach, and what campaigning she had done in the state has mostly been private, low-key affairs before small groups of invited supporters.
Hong Kong Chief Executives Pay Ranks Second in the World, Secretaries Salaries Exceed Those of Top UK and USA Officials

The Hong Kong government has been adhering to the high salary and integrity principle. The salary for the Chief Executive is one of the best in the world.

Recently, the Chief Executive Office and several policy bureaus responded to the media, announcing the salaries of the Chief Executive and accountable officials.

John Lee Ka-chiu, who took office in July this year, has a monthly salary of HK$452,200 (approx. US$57,608), an increase of over HK$30,000 (approx. US$3,800) than former Carrie Lam HK$420,000 (approx. US$53,500).

The updated annual salaries of top civil servants in Hong Kong, have increased according to the Consumer Price Index C in May.

Eric Chan Kwok-ki, Chief Secretary for Administration, HK$401,950 (approx. US$51,207);

Paul Chan Mo-po, Financial Secretary, HK$388,350 (approx. US$49,474);

Paul Lam Ting-kwok, Secretary for Justice, HK$375,200 (approx. US$47,798).

Salary Ranks Second in the World

The monthly pay for Chief Executive is one of the best in the world. It is now the second next to the Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Hsien Loong, who has HK$1,040,000 (approx. US$132,492) per month. Even the income of Hong Kong government secretaries exceeds that of the leaders of some developed countries.

Current monthly salaries of some of the top leaders in the world:

Joe Biden, U.S. President, HK$ 260,000 (approx. US$33,123)

Boris Johnson, Prime Minister of the UK, HK$130,000 (approx. US$16,561)

Prime Minister of Japan, HK$120,000 (approx. US$15,288)

President of the Republic of China, HK$130,000 (approx. US$16,561).

Sanctioned by the US

In addition, the Chief Executive can receive a monthly non-reimbursable allowance of HK$81,866 (approx. US$10,429) for expenses on business hospitality at the official residence. The Secretary for Administration and the Financial Secretary have HK$40,958 (approx. US$5,218) and HK$31,392 (approx. US$3,999) per month, respectively.

As sanctioned by the U.S Department of the Treasury in August 2020, the former Chief Executive Carrie Lam, the then Secretary for Security now Chief Executive Lee Ka-chiu, could not use banking services.

Carrie Lam had said that the government had to pay her HK$420,000 (approx. US$53,500) every month in cash when she was in office. Lam said at a press conference that she had a pile of cash at home.

During the Chief Executive election campaign, John Lee collected more than HK$11,260,000 (approx. US$1,434,477) of election donations in cash. He said that he had bought a safe and banknote counting machine. During his time in office, the government is expected to pay his monthly salary of HK$452,200 (approx. US$57,608) in cash.
Lee Quane, Regional Director-Asia at ECA International. EAC the world's leading human resource management consultancy released the results of its latest annual "My Expatriate Compensation Market Survey," on Aug 3, 2022. Hong Kong dropped three places to number eight in the world in the latest global ranking of expatriate compensation and benefits. (Sung Pi-Lung/The Epoch Times)

Hong Kong Drops to Eighth Place in The Latest ECA Global Expatriate Compensation and Benefits Survey

ECA International, the worlds leading human resource management consultancy, released the results of its latest annual My Expatriate Compensation Market Survey, on Aug. 3. Hong Kong dropped from fifth to eighth in the world in the latest global ranking of expatriate compensation and benefits. At the same time, the UK is back to its position as the most expensive region for expatriates, with an overall compensation package as high as US$440,000 per annum.

According to the report, the overall compensation package for expatriate workers in Hong Kong rose slightly by US$3,800 to US$283,000 last year, one of the smallest increases in Asia. Although Hong Kongs cash compensation packages rose by 4.5 percent (lower than many others in Asia), this was partly offset by a reduced benefits package mainly due to lower accommodation costs.

Also, despite the relatively high growth rates of cash remuneration and overall compensation packages in the Asia Pacific generally, many countries in the region recorded declines in their rankings, including Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

In addition, Malaysia continues to be the country with the lowest overall remuneration and benefits for expatriate employees in the Asia-Pacific region.

Australia and New Zealand rose significantly in their rankings, rising by 8 and 16, respectively. These improvements were mainly due to currency appreciation, benefits increases, and income tax changes over the past 12 months.

The remuneration and benefits package for expatriates in mainland China is still ranked third in Asia. Kwan Lai-lim, regional director for Asia at ECA International, said that although mainland Chinas ranking remains unchanged, cash compensation for expatriates in US dollar terms increased by 11 percent in 2021 compared to the previous year. This is mainly due to the relative strength of the Chinese renminbi, and partly due to the continued implementation of the zero-COVID epidemic prevention policy in mainland China last year. Companies, therefore, had to pay higher salaries to attract and retain expatriate workers.
An Argo AI self-driving prototype vehicle is seen outside a Ford and Volkswagen joint news conference in New York on July 12, 2019. (Mike Segar/Reuters)

House Lawmakers Caucus at Forefront to Encourage Self-Driving Vehicles

There is a bipartisan effort by two members of the U.S. House of Representatives to help revive legislative efforts to promote self-driving vehicles in the United States.

Reps. Robert Latta (R-Ohio) and Debbie Dingell,(D-Mich.) spoke with Reuters about their new Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus, which they hope will put forward federal autonomous vehicle standards, which currently are nonexistent.

They hope to use the caucus to educate their fellow lawmakers on self-driving vehicles as they work to revive previous attempts at legislation.

Congress has been divided for years over how to amend regulations to take into account self-driving vehicles, as well as consumer and legal protections regarding the new technology.

Latta als0 expressed a need to ensure that autonomous vehicle companies in the future will utilize technology developed in the United States rather than that of foreign rivals like China.

Its important we keep our competitiveness in the United States, Latta said, adding, its got to be done here in the United States.

Were working hard to find that common ground to get something that we can pass, said Dingell.

The lawmakers want to introduce new federal vehicle legislation that will cover self-driving vehicles in order to avoid the creation of a complicated patchwork of laws that differ between states.

She said that the United States has a major need to update motor vehicle safety standards written decades ago, when the concept of self-driving cars was not even seriously considered.

Dingell added that the United States cannot afford to have a patchwork of laws, either, across 50 states.

The two congresspersons also pointed the recent uptick in auto deaths in the country over the past year, rising by 10.5 percent, to 42,915, the single highest annual increase since 2005, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Dingell and Latta believe that autonomous vehicles are safer than human-driven cars and have the potential to save thousands of lives and reduce congestion by phasing out the potential for human error on roadways.

Setting Federal Standards

Latta and Dingell are arguing that nationwide standards and laws are currently struggling to keep pace with advancements in autonomous vehicle technology in recent years.

There is a concern about future conflicts between states over different laws and standards regarding the use and testing of these vehicles.

Only a few states, such as California, a center for Silicon Valley companies developing self-driving vehicles, have laws covering cars with the technology.

Meanwhile, the NHTSA recently revised its crash standard guidelines to no longer require steering wheels, brake pedals, or other manual driving controls for autonomous vehicles, a move which may open the door for the production of publicly available models in future years.

The NHTSA in July said that General Motors and Ford had asked for exemptions to deploy up to 2,500 self-driving vehicles annually, the maximum allowed under current law, without human controls, such as steering wheels and brake pedals.

The Self-Driving Coalition, which represents companies including Ford, Uber, Lyft and Waymo, is advising Congress and the Department of Transportation in order to create a new federal framework that could potentially allow for autonomous vehicles to save lives.

These companies are currently testing self-driving vehicle fleets, with plans to deploy them in the coming years.

Sens. Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and John Thune (R-N. Dakota) have proposed separate autonomous vehicle legislation in the Senate, and have suggested giving the NHTSA the right to initially exempt 15,000 self-driving vehicles per manufacturer from current federal motor vehicle safety standards.

The number of self-driving vehicles could possibly rise to 80,000 within three years under those standards.

Peters and Thune both sponsored the AV START Act in 2018, which failed to get a vote in the Senate, after some Democrats expressed concerns about safety and security standards over the new tech.

Latta admitted that self-driving car legislation might not pass until after the midterm elections.

The House of Representatives, for example, in 2017, attempted to pass legislation encouraging the adoption of self-driving cars and to prevent states from setting separate performance standards, but it never passed in the Senate.

Its important that we get members involved from all over the country, said Latta. This is something that is going to affect everybody.

Some earlier studies found that a massive shift to autonomous vehicles could potentially reduce roadway fatalities by as much as 90 percent. However, recent research conducted by The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has a more conservative estimate, which said that self-driving vehicles may actually prevent only around 33 percent of road crashes.

Reuters has contributed to this report.
Tesla cars parked at the construction site of the new Tesla Gigafactory for electric cars in Gruenheide, Germany, on March 20, 2022. (Hannibal Hanschke/Reuters)

Indonesia Says Tesla Strikes $5 Billion Deal to Buy Nickel Products

JAKARTAU.S. carmaker Tesla has signed contracts worth about $5 billion to buy materials for their batteries from nickel processing companies in Indonesia, a senior cabinet minister told CNBC Indonesia.

Southeast Asias biggest economy has been trying to get Tesla to set up a production facility in the country, which has major nickel reserves. President Joko Widodo met with Tesla founder Elon Musk earlier this year to drum up investment.

We are still in constant negotiation with Tesla  but they have started buying two excellent products from Indonesia, Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Pandjaitan said in an interview broadcast on Monday.

He said Tesla signed a five-year contract with nickel processing companies operating out of Morowali in Sulawesi island. The nickel materials will be used in Teslas lithium batteries.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a Reuters email seeking comment.
Is This Still a Constitutional Republic?

Commentary

The raid on Donald Trumps home, reportedly to pillage some documents that the former president believes he declassified, certainly raises some serious questions about the role of government power and what kind of regime it is under which we live.

Several reports suggest that the White House and President Joe Bidens personal staff found out first about the raid on Twitter and then cheered the actions.

Who precisely is running this show? Thats the right question to ask. And whether we look at the COVID response, energy policy, education, or fundamental issues of criminal justice, the answer keeps coming back to us: It isnt the people or their representatives, but the administrative state thats in charge. Its power has become so massive and so unchecked that it believes it can and should decide who it is for whom we are allowed to vote and even what the results should be.

Trump became enemy No. 1 throughout his presidency, but he really sealed the deal two weeks before the 2020 election. He issued an executive order that would have reclassified a great number of the 2.8 million civilian employees of the bureaucracies, subjecting them to at-will employment the same as the rest of us.

This was the first serious challenge to the rise of this beast in over 100 years, and threatened to do the unthinkable: take major steps toward restoring constitutional government. In the meantime, many Republicans have rallied around the idea and sworn to implement it should they retake power, first at the legislative level and finally in the office of the presidency.

Thats the backdrop to this raid.

We currently have in the United States a kind of cold war brewing between those who believe we should live in a constitutional republic and those who believe that such a thing is outmoded and should be replaced by the rule of experts who are completely unaccountable to elected officials, much less to the people. The Democrats in general have become the party of the administrative state, as their latest spending bonanzas prove. Republicans are increasingly defining themselves in the opposite way.

Therefore, we really are at a crossroads, and its happening at a time of serious economic crisis, so finding the right answer really has become a pressing concern. Otherwise, we are risking everything: not only prosperity and freedom, but also the constitutional form of government itself.

One of the earliest efforts to classify forms of government was from none other than Aristotle himself. His book Politics, written in 350 B.C., is still extremely interesting to read! He believed that states are extensions of human nature but also extremely dangerous when they go wrong. The main object of his inquiry concerned how to avoid tyranny. Not to spoil the book for you, but his general view of government is best when every man, whoever he is, can act best and live happily. His task was to figure out which systems best arrive at that ideal.

In the meantime, some 2,300 years of history have gone by, during which time the idea of universal freedom and human rights came to be discovered and eventually instituted in societies, with the United States as the shining example, first as an ideal and then in reality over time. Someone like Aristotle would have been amazed, simply because the ancient world never imagined such a thing was possible.

Another thing he couldnt have imagined was universal prosperity through wealth creation, sufficient to support 8 billion people and growing. Ancient world philosophers assumed based on what they observed that wealth was a fixed pie to be divided up by powerful elites, mostly through war and political deal-making.

Its the single greatest failing of all the greats of that period that they didnt and couldnt comprehend the emancipatory power of economic progress.

The very idea of freedom itself came to be best instantiated and codified within the framework of commercial society that granted every person the power to control his or her own life, via ownership, trade, investment, saving, and the type of cooperation made possible through money and prices. Surely, this is part of the realization of Aristotles ideal of living happily.

Thats why commerce occupied such a high place among Americas Founding generation. Thomas Jefferson said life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness were individual rights, not granted by government but inalienable from us by nature. The only purpose of government was to secure those rights from invasion.

One of my favorite (and most formative) readings is from 1819: The Liberty of the Ancient Compared With That of the Moderns by Benjamin Constant.

The danger for modern liberty is that we, absorbed in the enjoyment of our private independence and the pursuit of our particular interests, might surrender too easily our right to share in political power. The holders of authority encourage us to do just that. They are so ready to spare us every sort of trouble except the trouble of obeying and paying!

They will say to us: What, basically, is the aim of your efforts, the motive of your labors, the object of all your hopes? Isnt it happiness? Well, leave this happiness to us and well give it to you.

No, we must not leave it to them. Their tender concern to make us happy is touching, perhaps, but we should ask the authorities to stay within their limits: let them confine themselves to being just, and well take care of happiness.

Indeed! We and not the permanent bureaucracies can handle the happiness part of life just fine. It so happens that freedom, prosperity, and the pursuit of happiness all go together. We need individual rights to achieve them. When such rights are recognized widely, we can of our own volition build vibrant commercial societies with class mobility and opportunities for ennoblement available to everyone.

The larger the apparatus of the permanent government grows, and the more of our lives it invades, the less that seems possible. Thats what accounts for the widespread demoralization we see in the world today. Liberties were crushed during the COVID period, and prosperity along with it, setting in motion a series of events that have wrecked not only constitutional government, but also hope and happiness.

The raid on Trumps home, then, serves as a kind of catalyst for action. The driving purpose of the raid, apparently, was to preserve state secrets and prevent him from revealing them in time. And to make that happen, even a former presidents home couldnt be kept safe from invasion by the administrative state. It also happens just as the opposing party is preparing to unleash hordes of tax collectors all over the country to eat out what remains of the countrys substance, to paraphrase the Declaration of Independence.

We are a constitutional republic in name, but are we still in reality? Events of the past few years raise fundamental questions about that. Reading Aristotle on tyranny today gives rise to an uncomfortable feeling that we arent doing well at avoiding tyranny. And with that also comes poverty, ill-health, and ever more steps back to what Thomas Hobbes called the state of nature, in which the powerful rule the weak in a life that is nasty, brutish, and short.

We really do seem to be at the precipice. There is a choice to be made. Its urgent that we make the right one because there might not be any going back in our lifetimes.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Its Grape Season in Californias Napa Valley

CALISTOGA, Calif.Clusters of deep purple, red, and green grapes hang on acres of vineyards. At Napa Valleys Castello di Amorosa, a castle winery, veraison is in season again.

Veraison is the viticulture word to describe the transition from berry growth to berry ripening.

The acid will start lowering, and the sugar content will be greater. And so then we look for an equilibrium between sugar, acid, and pH, and then well pick the grapes, said Dario Sattui, owner of Castello di Amorosa.

Sattui told NTD, sister media outlet of The Epoch Times, that the winery grows its grapes across Napa, Mendocino, and Sonoma counties. It primarily makes Italian-style wines.

The cooler areas of Mendocino will grow Pinot Noir and many of our white wines, and Napa County, of course, Cabernet Sauvignon. We also grow some Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in Sonoma County, he said.

Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga, Calif., on July 30, 2022. (Cynthia Cai/NTD)

In total, Castello di Amorosa has about 120 acres of vineyards, with different grapes ripening at different times. Each variety has a distinct way of cultivation, starting with pruning from January to March.

Buds start coming out in late March and April. Then they flower, and grape clusters start forming.

The vine is diffusing the energy into many clusters, so the quality wont be as good. Youll get a lot, but it wont be as good. So when we cutyou know it hurts me to see all these grape clusters go on the ground, but its better for quality, Sattui said.

The harvest season begins in August and goes through October.

We do everything by hand, he said. We pick by hand, and then we will crush, press the grapes. And then white wines dont often go to barrels at all, except for the Chardonnay.

Wines that are stored go in underground rooms beneath the castle.

Chardonnay is fermented in French oak barrels. Sattui said each barrel costs about $900 to $1,000. Theyre used only twice to make vintage wines, and then theyre sold as planters.

So its a very expensive way to make wine. We can buy American oak barrels for half to 60 percent of the costs, but American oak barrels are too aggressive, too tannic, where the French oak barrels have more spice and give  greater elegance to the wine. So we prefer to use those, he said.

French oak barrels ferment wine at Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga, Calif., on July 30, 2022. (Cynthia Cai/NTD)

Red wines are aged anywhere from six months to two years, and bottle-aged for at least a year. Reserve wines age for at least three years before being sold.

[Sattui] wanted to create wines that people could take home and enjoy with their friends and family, and he wanted to make food-friendly, approachable wines, Jim Sullivan, VP of marketing and public relations at Castello di Amorosa, told NTD. We make those kinds of wines, those Italian-style wines. We want you to enjoy it around the table with your family and your friends.

The winery has had a lot of success selling wines directly from the winery. At the gift shop, the bottles are sold in staggered stacks.

We stack our wine the way theyve done for several centuries in Europe. Its a real efficient way to stack the wine, and then we sell right off the stacks, Sattui said.

Wine bottles stacked like those in the Middle Ages, at Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga, Calif., on July 30, 2022. (Nancy Han/NTD)

About 90 of the 107 castle rooms are dedicated to winemaking. The castle offers tours for wine tasting.

I really like Cabernet Sauvignon, Sullivan said. For me, its a bigger, bolder winegoes with my palate. But I do like the red blends as well. So we have a wine called La Castellana, which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot, and a little bit of Malbec. And I love that wine because its so versatile. Its such a food-friendly wine.

La Castellana in Italian means the feminine head of the castle, Sattui said. So she was Castellanos wife. Castellano was the male administrator of the castlenot the owner, the male administratorand La Castellana was the female administrator. Il Barone, which I guess I am now, is the baron and probably ruled the castle.

Il Barone and La Castellana wines at Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga, Calif., on July 30, 2022. (Cynthia Cai/NTD)

With their years of experience, Sattui and Sullivan know the land like the back of their hands.

The best grapes are usually hillside grapes, and we have a lot of hillside vineyards where the exposure is southwest or west, because you need a lot of sunlight, Sattui said.

Napa Valley has been at the forefront of California winemaking since 1976. Thats due to factors such as its rich volcanic soil and strong swings in temperature. It can drop as much as 40 degrees between day and night.

But the climate doesnt always work in their favor.

This year, we had whats called shatter, where the berries split, and that took place probably in April. And then we had a real heat spell, and so it will be an early harvest and it will probably be a lighter harvest overall, Sattui said. Every variety is different. Some varieties are a little heavier than others, but it will be a lighter harvest and an earlier harvest this year.

Vineyards in front of Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga, Calif., on July 30, 2022. (Cynthia Cai/NTD)

Wildfire season is another threat. Sattui said the smoke gets into the grapes, making them unusable for winemaking.

We throw it away, or if we make wine, trying to salvage it, we end up selling it for vinegar, he said.

In 2020, a wildfire burned down a building where they stored reserve wine. They lost over 100,000 bottles. After that, they took precautions.

Weve organized our own fire department. Weve trained themwe even have uniforms for them. We bought several fire pumps. We have a small lake up here where we can feed water into the pump. And we spent over $100,000 clearing out a lot of brush, dead trees around the castle, so we think were pretty prepared, he said.

Theyre currently rebuilding the structure and recovering from their losses. But the costs that go into fire safety and other pursuits are not a primary concern for Sattui.

Whatever I touch, I want it to be the best it could possibly be, he said. So I try to buy the best equipment. We have a great winemaker named Brooks Painterand Peter Vellenothe two winemakers we have. And so we have really good vineyards. Were devoted to making the best possible wines we can.

The castle vineyard also sells grape juice. Except for a little bit of sulfur, there are no additives.

Wine tasting tours are available with online reservations.
A North Kansas City Police vehicle in North Kansas, Mo., in June 2022. (Google Maps/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

Kansas City Police Shoot, Kill Driver of Stolen SUV

KANSAS CITY, Mo.Kansas City police shot and killed a man who sped toward an officer in a stolen sport utility vehicle and struck a police van, authorities said.

The shooting happened around 9:45 p.m. Sunday after officers spotted the unoccupied SUV in a gas station parking lot, said Sgt. Bill Lowe, a spokesman for the Missouri State Highway Patrol, which is investigating.

Lowe said police approached the man after he exited the store. He accelerated backward and then drove forward toward one of the officers, Lowe said.

Lowe said the officer dived out of the way and that the SUV struck the police van before officers opened fire.

Lowe said the driver was declared dead at a hospital. His name wasnt immediately released.

The patrol is reviewing video from the gas station and police body camera footage, as well as interviewing witnesses.
Laguna Beach to Add Hiring Incentives to Remedy Police Shortages

The Laguna Beach City Council unanimously approved a proposal to remedy police workforce shortages by increasing overtime pay and offering hiring incentives last week.

Police agencies across Orange County and the nation are struggling to attract and retain officers due to the changing business and political environment, Police Chief Jeff Calvert said during the Aug. 2 council meeting.

According to Calvert, there have been mass resignations due to the anti-police and defund the police movements as well as changes in legislation that place more scrutiny and pressure on officers.

Currently, the police department has 42 officers and seven dispatchers available for duty, down from 55 and 11 positions, respectively.

Some officers are out with long-term injuries. Additionally, another two are either retiring or transferring to another city.

Under my command, were not going to lower our hiring standards to fill positions, so as a community, we need to be competitive with other law enforcement organizations in Orange County to attract and retain the best and brightest, Calvert said.

City Manager Shohreh Dupuis said Calvert had approached her a week ago expressing concerns about unexpected workforce shortages.

Since then, she said they, with input from the citys police employee association, drafted an agreement to retain and recruit more officers.

The agreement will double the pay for overtime for the next two months and offer a $15,000 signing bonus to new hires. Those eligible would receive the first half upon hire and the remaining after completing two years of service.

Hopefully, this will alleviate things, and then obviously, wed get some more time to consider more permanent solutions here as we enter into negotiations, but hopefully, this will produce some results, Mayor Pro Tem Bob Whalen said.

Mayor Sue Kempf also inquired about the status of park rangers, saying they could assist officers with less urgent matters.

According to Calvert, there would be three full-time rangers available by the end of August.
Rising smoke can be seen from the beach at Saky after explosions were heard from the direction of a Russian military airbase near Novofedorivka, Crimea, on Aug. 9, 2022. (UGC via AP)

Large Explosions Rock Russian Military Air Base in Crimea

KYIV, UkrainePowerful explosions rocked a Russian air base in Crimea and sent towering clouds of smoke over the landscape Tuesday in what may mark an escalation of the war in Ukraine. At least one person was killed and several others were wounded, authorities said.

Russias Defense Ministry denied the Saki base on the Black Sea had been shelled and said instead that munitions had blown up there. But Ukrainian social networks were abuzz with speculation that it was hit by Ukrainian-fired long-range missiles.

Videos posted on social networks showed sunbathers on nearby beaches fleeing as huge flames and pillars of smoke rose over the horizon from multiple points, accompanied by loud booms. Crimea Today News said on Telegram that witnesses reported fire on a runway and damage to nearby homes as a result of what it said were dozens of blasts.

Russias state news agency Tass quoted an unidentified ministry source as saying the explosions primary cause appeared to be a violation of fire safety requirements. The ministry said no warplanes were damaged.

Ukraines Defense Ministry said sarcastically on Facebook: The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine cannot establish the cause of the fire, but once again recalls the rules of fire safety and the prohibition of smoking in unspecified places.

A presidential adviser, Oleksiy Arestovych, said cryptically in his regular online interview that the blasts were caused either by a Ukrainian-made long-range weapon or were the work of partisans operating in Crimea.

During the war, Russia has reported numerous fires and explosions at munitions storage sites on its territory near the Ukrainian border, blaming some of them on Ukrainian strikes. Ukrainian authorities have mostly remained mum about the incidents.

If Ukrainian forces were, in fact, responsible for the blasts at the air base, it would be the first known major attack on a Russian military site on the Crimean Peninsula, which the Kremlin annexed in 2014. A smaller explosion last month at the headquarters of Russias Black Sea Fleet in the Crimean port of Sevastopol was blamed on Ukrainian saboteurs using a makeshift drone.

Russian warplanes have used the Saki base to strike areas in Ukraines south on short notice.

One person was killed, said Crimeas regional leader, Sergei Aksyonov. Crimean health authorities said nine people were wounded, one of whom remained hospitalized. Others were treated for cuts from shards of glass and released.

Officials in Moscow have long warned Ukraine that any attack on Crimea would trigger massive retaliation, including strikes on decision-making centers in Kyiv.

For his part, Ukraines president vowed to retake Crimea from Russia.

This Russian war against Ukraine and against all of free Europe began with Crimea and must end with Crimeaits liberation, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday in his nightly video address. Today it is impossible to say when this will happen. But we are constantly adding the necessary components to the formula for the liberation of Crimea.

Earlier Tuesday, Ukrainian officials reported at least three Ukrainian civilians were killed and 23 wounded by Russian shelling in 24 hours, including an attack not far from the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

The Russians fired over 120 rockets at the town of Nikopol, across the Dnieper River from the plant, Dnipropetrovsk Gov. Valentyn Reznichenko said. Several apartment buildings and industrial sites were damaged, he said.

Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of shelling the power station, Europes biggest nuclear plant, stoking international fears of a catastrophe.

The governor of the region where the plant is situated, Oleksandr Starukh, said Tuesday that radiation levels were normal. But he warned that an accident could spread radiation whichever way the wind blows, carrying it to Moscow and other Russian cities.

A Russian-installed official in the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region said an air defense system at the plant would be reinforced in the aftermath of last weeks shelling. Evgeny Balitsky, head of the Kremlin-backed administration, told Russian state TV that power lines and other damaged portions of the plant were restored.

The Ukrainians in recent weeks have been mounting counterattacks in Russian-occupied areas of southern Ukraine while trying to hold off the Kremlins forces in the industrial Donbas region in the east.

The White House released satellite images in mid-July indicating that Russians had visited an Iranian airbase to see weapons-capable drones. But U.S. officials said later that month that they had seen no evidence yet of Iran supplying Russia with the drones.

Ukrainian officials this month said Iran has transferred drones to Russia and some have been used in combat.
Senators Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska.) chat before a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, on March 28, 2019. (Yuri Gripas/Reuters)

Sen. Lisa Murkowski Faces Close Challenge in Alaska Primary

A contentious electoral battle pitting four-term incumbent Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) against Donald Trump-endorsed Kelly Tshibaka will go to Alaskas voters in the Aug. 16 primary.

Voting in the ranked-choice election will take place in person throughout Americas last frontier.

The primary ballot has seven Republicans, three Democrats, five Independents, two Alaska Independent Party candidates, and one Libertarian.

The top four vote-getters will advance to the Nov. 8 general election.

In July, data analyst Morning Consult reported that 46 percent of Alaska voters approved of Murkowskis job performance.

Kelly Tshibaka addresses reporters in Anchorage, Alaska, in September 2019. (Mark Thiessen/AP)

How that stacks up against Trump-endorsed Tshibakas growing popularity with conservative Alaska voters, however, remains to be seen.

Murkowski took office in 2002 when her father appointed her to his own U.S. Senate seat which he vacated upon being elected Alaskas governor. She is currently the second most senior female member in the Senate after Sen. Susan Collins of Maine.

Clout and Seniority

Every day, I use my seniority, clout, and bipartisan relationships to advance and secure policy victories that benefit our state, Murkowski said on her campaign website.

Alaska is important to me because its my home, and because its yours, she said.

During her tenure, Murkowski said she authored and passed the most significant infrastructure law in U.S. history, delivering much-needed relief and critical funding to hardworking Alaska families and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She listed as other accomplishments basing F-35 fighter jets at Eielson AFB in Alaska, supporting responsible resource development and renewable energy.

However, she faces a conservative credibility challenge as one of seven Republican senators who voted to convict Trump of incitement to insurrection in his second impeachment trial after the Jan. 6 Capitol protest.

Trump Flexes Electoral Muscle

Trump hopes to test his influence in defeating Murkowski in the primary through his endorsement of Tshibaka.

During a recent stop in Anchorage, Trump called Murkowski one of the most destructive two-faced senators.

Get Murkowski out of here because she is not a Republican, Trump told the crowd of about 5,000 supporters.

Murkowski also drew ire from conservatives over her co-sponsorship of a bipartisan bill to codify federal abortion protections following the Supreme Courts overturning of Roe v. Wade in June.

Tshibaka said shes running for a change from the destructive policies of the Biden administration.

Weve watched in horror as our resource industries have been destroyed by President Biden and his radical cabinet membersover 90 percent of whom have been confirmed by our Senator, Tshibaka said on her website.

Weve felt our freedoms stripped away and our land confiscated through federal whims. And weve seen jobs and opportunities leave our state because our senator hasnt been fighting for us in the U.S. Senate.

Tshibaka has served as a commissioner of the Department of Administration of the State of Alaska. She also worked as a special assistant to the Department of Justice Inspector General and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

She was the acting inspector general at the Federal Trade Commission and assistant inspector general, and chief data officer at the U.S. Postal Service.

Polls Unclear on Projected Winner

Recent polling throughout the campaign has shown mixed results.

One survey, conducted by the research firm Cygnal for the Tshibaka campaign, found Tshibaka would defeat Murkowski by a slim 2 percent margin of 5149.

On the other hand, an Alaska Survey Research poll showed Murkowski benefiting from the new ranked-choice election system, beating her opponent in the third survey round.
Corn maze attractions have been booming in the United States, with each creation being incredibly unique and complex. This year, one family, who owns the longest-running maze in Maine, chose to delight visitors with a stunning theme: Winnie-the-Pooh.

This is our 22nd corn maze, Jonathan Kenerson, owner of Treworgy Family Orchards in Levant, told The Epoch Times. We wanted a maze design that would delight our guests, but also honor the original bear and his friends from the hundred-acre wood.

Winnie-the-Pooh, corn maze 2022. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

According to Kenerson, this year marks the 95th anniversary of A.A. Milnes book, which means that the beloved bear has passed into the public domain.

This makes possible all sorts of creations such as a corn maze without having to jump through complicated legal hoops, he explained.

The intricate maze is made from more than 60,000 corn plants and its taken a lot of planning for it to come alive.

Each design is a team effort with initial compositions and back and forth feedback, Kenerson said. We have a wonderful team that made it happen.

Talented agricultural manager Kat Jenkins led the design, forcing the images and ideas onto the constraints of the actual field dimensions.

Its hard work balancing a beautiful design with a fun and challenging maze experience, Kenerson added.

Corn Ships Ahoy, corn maze 2018. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Meanwhile, agricultural director Matthew Pellerin was in charge of layout, planting, and cultivating; and graphic designer Josh Alves contributed the graphics, trivia, and game within the maze.

Explaining more about the maze, Kenerson said that it takes about 45 minutes to complete it and each participant is asked to keep on the trails and not touch the corn, since they want to maintain it for future guests.

The publics response to the Winnie-the-Pooh corn maze design is one of the most enthusiastic weve ever experienced, Kenerson said. The beloved bear and his friend Piglet fit right in here on the farm.

Its rather a slick operation these days, which all started years ago when Kenersons in-laws, Gary and Patty Treworgy, went on a trip to New York to drop their eldest daughter off at college and came across a farm with a corn maze.

Not many places were doing this, Kenerson said, and they thought, we could figure out how to do that.

The Good Knight and the Dragon, corn maze 2016. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

The following year, the family planted the first maze on their land, painstakingly figuring out how to create paths with surveying equipment, tape measures, lines, and lime.

Over the years, weve improved our methods and refined the craft, but we still design and layout the mazes ourselves using old-fashioned surveying equipment, Kenerson explained.

(Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Treworgy Family Orchards was established four decades ago when Gary and Patty dreamed of starting a pick-your-own farm. During that time, Gary had a job with the Merchant Marines, which kept him away from home for months at a time, and the couple wanted to generate income while being able to work with their kids.

Neither of them had any farming experience, but they bought some land, planted some apple trees, and worked other jobs for decades before the farm became self-sustaining, Kenerson said.

Almost 40 years later, the second generation is leading, and three generationsalong with many friends and familyare involved in welcoming tens of thousands of guests annually to experience agriculture.

Over the years, their corn maze creations have won first or second places in USA Todays 10Best Corn Maze competition. The winning designs include a ship, a bear and a girl from the book Blueberries for Sal, Wilbur the pig from Charlottes Web, Paul Bunyan, a knight fighting a dragon, and more.

Charlottes Web, corn maze 2021. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Kenerson also shared that seeing people leave with a smile after a visit to the farm picking apples or berries, feeding goats, and wandering through the maze is the best feeling and makes it all worth the effort.

Standing true to their mission, the family has also been connecting people together in community, to the land through agriculture, and to God through those experiences.

Were delighted to provide opportunities for families to spend time together, creating memories, and actually getting close to nature, and farm life, Kenerson said. Being able to work with friends and family to create a piece of art that brings joy to so many people is truly a blessing.

Blueberries for Sal, corn maze 2019. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Corn Mazes From Past Years:

Paul Bunyan, corn maze 2017. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

The Good Knight and the Dragon, corn maze 2016. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Edwin the Elephants Exciting Escapade, corn maze 2015. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

The Lost Locomotive, corn maze 2014. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Richard the Lion, corn maze 2013. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

The Great Gobbler, corn maze 2012. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Charlie Horse!, corn maze 2011. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Rascally Rabbit, corn maze 2010. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Butterfly  The Amazing Metamorphosis, corn maze 2009. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Worlds Largest Tractor, corn maze 2008. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Shear Sheep Madness, corn maze 2007. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Rooster  El Pollo Loco, corn maze 2006. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

Fish Fluster, corn maze 2005. (Courtesy of Treworgy Family Orchards)

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The RCMP logo is seen in a file photo. (The Canadian Press/Darryl Dyck)

Man at Centre of Saskatchewan Amber Alert a Convicted Child Sex Offender: Records

REGINACourt records show a man believed to be at the centre of an Amber Alert for two missing children is a convicted child sex offender.

The documents say 50yearold Benjamin Martin Moore, now of Eastend, Sask., was convicted in 2009 for sexual interference of a minor.

He was sentenced in Regina provincial court to two years and two months in prison.

Records say he served another three months in jail in 2011 after he was convicted of breaching a recognizance order.

RCMP say Moore is believed to be with sevenyearold Luna Potts, eightyearold Hunter Potts and their mother.

Police issued an Amber Alert on Monday evening for the girl and boy, saying the children may have entered the United States with Moore.

Moore is described as being five feet 10 inches tall and weighing 200 pounds with black hair.

Police say Moore, the children and their mother may be travelling in a 2015 dark blue Chevrolet Equinox with the Alberta licence plate CGC 2492.
Mastriano Attorney Details Jan. 6 Committee Meeting

Pennsylvania Sen. Doug Mastriano was scheduled to meet Tuesday with the Jan. 6 Select Committee, but just two people showed up to grill him: one staffer, senior investigative counsel Dan George who did all the talking for the committee; and Rep. Jamie Raskin, a Maryland Democrat who smiled but never turned on his microphone, according to Mastrianos attorney Timothy Parlatore.

Mastriano, who is the GOP candidate for Pennsylvania governor, attended with Parlatore.

It was a video call at 10 a.m. that the committee called a deposition, although Parlatore had previously argued in a letter that the committee does not have the legal authority to conduct a deposition, which is why his clients, including Mastriano, had all offered to participate in voluntary interviews.

Political Intentions

In an Aug. 5 letter, Parlatore told the committee Mastriano has nothing to hide and would appear for a deposition under certain conditions, including the committee getting a ranking minority member designation from the Republican Steering Committee, and if he could record the hearing to prevent tricky editing that might manipulate the true conversation.

Given the committees demonstrated propensity for releasing edited clips of interviews without the requisite context to support a false partisan narrative, Parlatore wrote, I am concerned that there is a risk that your committee will do the same to Senator Mastriano.

Members of your party like Sean Patrick Maloney, Democratic Campaign Chair, have openly admitted that the goal of the hearings you are conducting is intended to paint the Republican party as irresponsible and power hungry ahead of the midterms.

For this reason, my client has legitimate concerns that your committee may attempt to influence the outcome of the Pennsylvania state elections through the dissemination of disinformation.

The committee refused to allow a recording by Mastrianos team.

Mastriano attended the Jan. 6, 2021, rally in Washington with numerous other people. He did not enter the Capitol and has not been charged with anything. Former President Donald Trump endorsed Mastriano in the primary. His high-profile campaign against Democrat candidate Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvanias attorney general, has attracted national attention.

Not Quite a Deposition

The video call with George started with a discussion on procedures.

I asked several questions to ensure that they had complied with the House rules to be able to legally conduct the deposition, Parlatore told The Epoch Times, adding that George refused to answer his questions.

The first question was, Is this subpoena even signed by Thomson? Because the signature looks identical to every letter that he sent me. So did he actually, personally sign this, or was this some staffer using an autopen?

Parlatore was referring to Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), chairman of the Jan. 6 Committee.

Another question was about how the deposition would run. Under the rules, depositions are supposed to be conducted with two staffers, one from the majority and one from the minority. They go back and forth in one-hour rounds.

No one from the minority Republicans was present. Parlatore asked who was designated to do the rounds.

They refused to answer that, Parlatore said. And then I told them, look, it appears that you guys have not complied with the rules. We are going to leave. Whenever you guys can comply with the rules, let me know; well come back. If you guys decide to work with me and try to work out the terms of a reasonable voluntary interview, well come back. Otherwise, have a nice day. And then, this staffer turns, and starts asking my client questions.

Parlatore says he asked George what he was doing, and says he was told that they could not leave because the deposition was now started, as a question had been asked.

I asked him, If the deposition is started, dont you normally have to swear in the witness first?

George indicated that he had forgotten to swear Mastriano in.

I said, OK. Well, senator, lets sign off. And so they did.

Next Step

Next, Parlatore will ask for a judgment in U.S. District Court, Washington, D.C., challenging the committees authority to conduct depositions. A filing is expected within about a week.

Parlatores name has been floated as a possible representative for Trump in the recent FBI raid on his Mar-a-Lago home, although Parlatore would not confirm nor deny his involvement.

But he says he is not normally a political attorney. He has a background in criminal law, and spoke through that lens about the committee.

This committee is not conducting an investigation. They are not acting as investigators act. All of the things that you expect an investigator to do, if theyre actually trying to find out the truth, is not what this committee is trying to do.

A spokesperson for the committee did not respond to a request from The Epoch Times for comment.
US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman (C) lays a wreath next to US Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy (L) during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal at Skyline Ridge in Honiara on the Solomon Islands on Aug. 7, 2022. (Charley Piringi/AFP via Getty Images)

Dignitaries Commemorate 80th Anniversary of the Pacific Battle of Guadalcanal

Top diplomats have gathered in Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the bloody Battle of Guadalcanal (Aug. 7, 1942 to Feb. 9, 1943)considered a turning point during the Second World War for the Allied forces.

Among the attendees was Wendy Sherman, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Caroline Kennedy, the U.S. Ambassador to Australia, Makoto Onika, Japans Defence Minister, as well as the Pacific and Defence Industry ministers of Australia (Pat Conroy) and New Zealand (Peeni Henare). Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare was absent from proceedings.

U.S. Ambassador Kennedy thanked the descendants of her fathers rescuers, John F. Kennedy, who was in command of a U.S. Navy patrol boat that was destroyed by a Japanese destroyer on Aug. 1, 1943.

My family and I owe a personal debt of gratitude to two Solomon Islander ScoutsBiaku Gasa and Eroni Kumanawho saved my fathers life, she told attendees.

Thanks to them, he and his crew survived the sinking of PT-109 and (he was) able to return home and eventually run for president. His experiences here made him the man and the leader that he was, just as the experiences of so many others shaped the men and women they would become.

This picture taken on Aug. 7, 2022, shows Japans Defence Minister Makoto Oniki (5th L), Japans Chief of Staff, Joint Staff General Koji Yamazaki (C), posing for pictures with US Ambassador to Australia Caroline Kennedy (5th R) and Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific and the Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy (4th R) during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal at Skyline Ridge in Honiara on the Solomon Islands. (Charley Pringi/AFP via Getty Images)

U.S. Deputy State Secretary Shermans father, Mal Sherman, also fought at Guadalcanal at the age of 19.

I know he was wounded in action here on Guadalcanal, and that eventually his wounds became infected with jungle rot. He became sick enough to be evacuatedfirst to New Zealand, where he always said the Kiwis took extraordinary care of him, and eventually to California, she said.

Like a lot of World War II veterans, he didnt like to talk much about his service. He didnt glory in it. He didnt revel in it. But still, his experience here shaped him. And it shaped me in return.

On Aug. 7, 1942, the Allied forces began the six-month campaign to retake the island of Guadalcanal, Tulagi, and Gavutu-Tanambogo just months after the significant Battle of Midway. It was also a proving ground for the U.S. Marine Corps amphibious warfare.

The Battle of Guadalcanal saw major engagements across air, sea, and land resulting in 1,600 Allied casualties and 24,000 Japanese deaths.

Sherman Reiterates US Commitment to Pacific

Deputy State Secretary Sherman said that in hindsight, it was easy to recognise that the Battle was a turning point in the Pacific theatre.

But for the marines patrolling the dense and humid jungle, who had to be wary of both enemy snipers and crippling disease  for the sailors who fought terrifying night battles in the seas around these islands  for the airmen who engaged in countless dogfights in the skies above  the future was unknown and unknowable, she said.

In an allusion to Moscow and Beijing, Sherman said that with the passage of time, some world leaders had forgotten the awful lessons learned here, or perhaps never took them to heart.

Leaders who believe that others must be diminished if they are to rise. Leaders who believe that coercion, pressure, and violence are tools to be used with impunity.

Leaders who believe that the principles and institutions the world set up after the Second World Warthe rules-based international order that has enabled peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and around the world for generationscan be ignored and undermined, diminished and destroyed.

Sherman reiterated the Biden administrations efforts to engage with the Pacific, including Secretary Antony Blinkens decision to release the U.S.s Indo-Pacific Strategy in Fiji earlier this year, and Vice President Kamala Harris address to the Pacific Island Forum in July, as well as the announcement of new U.S. embassies in Tonga, Kiribati, and the Solomon Islands.

Solomons Prime Minister Defends Absence

Meanwhile, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Sogavare has been forced to defend his absence claiming his government was well represented at all events marking the anniversary.

He said claims of a diplomatic snub were misleading and lacked an understanding of the relevant protocols applied and exercised during the events.

Should a Head of Government attend the event, the prime ministers presence would be required. Efforts are being made to ensure protocol is consistently applied to all future events that require the prime ministers presence, his office said in a statement.

Yet, among Pacific nations, it is common for heads of state to attend and engage with dignitaries below their official ranknamely because many Pacific nations have smaller bureaucracies and governments.

Sherman, who met with Sogavare on the same day, said he had missed an important opportunity.

This picture taken on Aug. 7, 2022, shows US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman posing for pictures with the Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare (R) after a ceremony to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Guadalcanal at Skyline Ridge in Honiara, Solomon Islands. (Mavis Podokolo/AFP via Getty Images)

This was a place where international leaders gathered to say that the work with Solomon Islanders, at the time of World War II, was decisive in victory, in ensuring freedom and democracy. And so I really felt sorry for the prime minister because I think he missed an important opportunity, she told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Relations between Sogavare and democratic leaders have been on the slide after the prime minister signed off on a contentious security pact with Beijing.

The pact will open the door for the Chinese Communist Party to station troops, weapons, and naval ships in the region.
Nebraska Cancels Special Session to Change Abortion Laws

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts on Monday canceled a proposed special session of the state legislature intended to reduce the current abortion ban from 20 weeks to 12 weeks.

Rickettss decision came after Speaker of the Legislature Mike Hilgers indicated in a letter that an insufficient number of state senators would vote to amend Nebraskas abortion laws.

The senators letter shows we dont have the 33 votes needed to pass legislation to protect more preborn babies. For this reason, I will not be calling a special session, Ricketts said in a statement. Nebraskans need to have more conversations on the value we place on human life so more meaningful protections can be passed in our state.

In May, after the U.S. Supreme Courts draft opinion regarding an abortion case was leaked, the Nebraska governor vowed to call a special session to change the abortion law should the Roe v. Wade decision be overturned.

In June, after the Supreme Court overturned the 1973 Roe ruling that largely made abortion legal nationwide, Ricketts moved to make good on his promise to do more to protect preborn babies.

It is deeply saddening that only 30 Nebraska state senators are willing to come back to Lincoln this fall in order to protect innocent life, Ricketts said. He added that the proposed amendment is a measured, reasonable step to protect more preborn babies in our state.

Fully Formed at 20 Weeks

Despite the setback, the Nebraska governor reaffirmed his promise to affirm the rights of preborn babies and to support pregnant women, children, and families in need.

He noted that under Nebraskas current law, babies can be aborted up to 20 weeks gestation.

At this age, babies are nearly fully formed. They can kick, swallow, hear, and respond to sounds outside the womb. They suck their thumbs. They can feel pain, he said. But under Nebraskas current law, Ricketts said babies up to 20 weeks gestation can still be killed before they have that chance.

The governor noted that medical advancements meant more and more babies at this stage of gestation can survive premature birth and go on to live vibrant lives.

According to studies, there have been increases in the survival rate and neurodevelopmental outcomes for babies born pre-27 weeks.

Babies born before 26 weeks of gestation are often called micro premies and require long stays in neonatal intensive care units. According to reports, babies born extremely preterm are surviving into adulthood.

There is around a 10 percent chance of survival for preterm babies born at 22 weeks. At 26 weeks gestation, the survival rate is around 90 percent. These outcomes and treatments differ in different countries.

Most of the free world has more reasonable abortion laws than Nebraska. Over 75 percent of countries around the world have placed restrictions on abortion at 12 weeks. Our 20-week abortion ban puts us in line with a narrow ten percent of countriesincluding countries like North Korea and Chinathat fail to protect preborn babies, Ricketts said.

The governor called on pro-life Nebraskans to write to their lawmakers to encourage them to support changing the states abortion laws.
No Legal Basis for Barring Trump From Running Again After Mar-a-Lago Raid: Experts

The FBIs raid on Aug. 8 of former President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence, as part of an investigation into documents allegedly removed from the White House when Trump departed in 2021, is highly unlikely to produce any evidence that could form part of a legal case for disallowing the former president from seeking office again, according to legal experts.

Alan Dershowitz, the noted Harvard University professor, author, and commentator on legal controversies, was unequivocal about the illegality of such a potential maneuver.

That would be unconstitutional, Dershowitz said in an email to The Epoch Times.

The search warrant used as a basis for the raid is currently under seal, and it may be some time before the official pretext for the raid comes to light. But based on the facts now known, Democrats in Congress looking for a means to preempt Trumps expected announcement regarding 2024, and bar him from running again, have little legal recourse, experts said.

Earlier this year, the National Records and Archives Administration (NARA) recovered 15 boxes of records from Mar-a-Lago, some of which included materials marked as classified national security information. At the time, Trump said that the documents were given to NARA upon request and in an ordinary and routine process to ensure the preservation of my legacy and in accordance with the Presidential Records Act.

The Presidential Records Act of 1978 established a detailed protocol regarding the ownership and transfer of official records of presidents and vice presidents. Among its provisions are that any records transfer into the legal custody of a federal archivist as soon as the president is out of office.

No Statutory Grounds

Some lawmakers may seek to invoke 18 U.S. Code 2071, the first clause of which states, Whoever willfully and unlawfully conceals, removes, mutilates, obliterates, or destroys, or attempts to do so, or, with intent to do so takes and carries away any record, proceeding, map, book, paper, document, or other thing, filed or deposited with any clerk or officer of any court of the United States, or in any public office, or with any judicial or public officer of the United States, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both.

Even if Trumps foes manage to convict him under this statute, it does not in any way override or supersede the explicit language of the Constitution regarding the requirements for the presidency, Eugene Mazo, a professor of law at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey, told The Epoch Times.

The reason they cant use it is that the Constitution enumerates what you have to do to become president. Weve had all kinds of litigation over it, not with regard to presidents, but to congresspeople and senators, Mazo said.

The Supreme Court has weighed in on this very question in its 5-4 decision in the case of U.S. Term Limits, Inc. v. Thornton in 1995, Mazo noted. In that case, the Court found that Section 3 of Amendment 73 to Arkansass state constitution, which sought to impose term limits not found in the federal Constitution on candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives, was unconstitutional.

By the same token, in a hypothetical scenario where Trump is tried and convicted in federal court for transferring documents from the White House to Mar-a-Lago, any attempt to use the conviction to thwart his future presidential prospects is all but certain to fail. The Constitution clearly sets forth requirements for becoming presidenta minimum age of 35, and being a natural-born citizen who has lived in the country for at least 14 yearsand no one has the legal authority to expand the requirements arbitrarily, Mazo argued.

Its not a liberal thing or a conservative thing, its just what the Court has said in analogous situations, Mazo said.

Even if Trump were to be convicted of a federal crime, the statute cant bar him from running for president again, because the statute cant supersede the requirements of the Constitution, he added.

A further obstacle to any effort on Democrats part to thwart Trumps ambitions for a second term is the sheer amount of time it would take to initiate and conduct a trial for any alleged misdeeds involving the documents, Mazo continued.

If Congress is going to act, it doesnt have a lot of time, because the midterms are coming. The Democrats have a very thin majority, and they cant lose any votes, if they try to act to bar Trump from running, he said.

Most people think that Merrick Garland has a very difficult job ahead of him, Mazo added.

No Question of Insurrection

Another statute commonly invoked by enemies of TrumpSection 3 of the Fourteenth Amendmenthas even less bearing on the developing story of the transferred documents, at least based on the facts now known, according to legal experts.

That section reads, No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice-President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.

Even the most generous reading of this text will find no language pertaining to the removal of documents, experts concurred.

Congressional Mandate?

In agreement with Mazo on the unlikelihood of Trump facing legal hurdles to running again is Derek T. Muller, a professor of law at the University of Iowa College of Law in Iowa City. Muller told The Epoch Times that a consensus exists that Congress cannot add new qualifications to candidates seeking federal office and spontaneously decide that someone convicted of having removed documents he should not have removed is therefore ineligible to run for office.

The Supreme Court has expressly held so in 1969, in Powell v. McCormack, for congressional elections. Most have accepted that the logic extends to presidential elections, too, Muller said.

The qualifications (or disqualifications) for office are enumerated in the Constitution. Congress cannot add to them or remove from them. If Trump is convicted of a felony, he is still eligible for the office. Only if, say, Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment applied would he be disqualified, because that is a constitutional standard.

Though the Jan. 6 hearings are still playing out, nothing alleged in the separate and unrelated issue of the transfer of the documents to Mar-a-Lago comes close to disqualifying the former president under Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment.

Not Out of the Woods

The unlikelihood of a successful attempt at the federal level to thwart Trumps future plans does not mean that he is certain to avoid any negative consequences if the Mar-a-Lago raid furnishes evidence that results in a conviction.

While Mazo finds it unlikely that the national Republican Party leadership will decline to cooperate with Trump in any capacity, there is still the possibility that some GOP state officials may raise concerns.

The Republican party in some states could bar him from running in their primary. I dont think that national party is going to do that, but the party in Connecticut or Vermont might say, This person has been convicted of a federal crime, Mazo said.

That could happen, but my guess is that it would only be in blue states and hes not going to win those electoral votes anyway, Mazo added.
The North Korean flag flies above the North Korean embassy in Beijing on March 9, 2018. (Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images)

North Korea Denounces Pelosis Visit to South Korea

North Korea has denounced U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to South Korea, calling it an attempt by Washington to provoke South Korean conservative forces into confrontation with Pyongyang.

Pelosi traveled to South Korea on Aug. 4 after visiting Taiwan, where she met with top South Korean legislators and National Assembly Speaker Kim Jin-pyo to discuss the U.S.South Korea alliance.

During the meeting, Pelosi reaffirmed the United States commitment to support South Koreas efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula through deterrence and diplomatic dialogue. Both sides expressed concerns over the grave situation of rising threats from North Korea.

Pelosi also visited the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), making her the highest-ranking U.S. official to do so since former President Donald Trump met North Korean leader Kim Jong Un there in 2019.

U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) attends the Joint Press Announcement after meeting with South Korean National Assembly speaker Kim Jin-pyo at the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea, on Aug. 4, 2022. (Kim Min-Hee-Pool/Getty Images)

Jo Yong Sam, director general at the North Korean Foreign Ministrys press and information affairs department, condemned Pelosis visit to South Korea and called her the worst destroyer of international peace and stability.

Pelosi, who had come under a volley of due criticism from China for destroying regional peace and stability by visiting Taiwan, stirred up the atmosphere of confrontation with the DPRK during her visit to South Korea, Jo said in a statement carried by state media, using North Koreas official acronym.

Pyongyang said that Pelosis bilateral talks with South Korean authorities on security alliance and her visit to the DMZ exemplified the hostile policy of the Biden administration toward North Korea.

It would be a fatal mistake for her to think that she can go scot-free in the Korean Peninsula, Jo remarked. The U.S. will have to pay dearly for all the sources of trouble spawned by her wherever she went.

North Korea has conducted a series of missile launches this year, including one involving its largest intercontinental ballistic missile, the Hwasong-17, all of which are banned under U.N. Security Council resolutions on Pyongyangs missile program.

South Korea has been pushing for a formal declaration to end the 195053 Korean War to ease tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The two countries agreed to an armistice in 1953.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol had also pledged to help North Korea strengthen the economy of its capital city of Pyongyang in exchange for complete denuclearization.

But North Korea insists that any formal treaty to end the war must first be preceded by an end to U.S. hostilities against it. Washington has reiterated that it holds no hostile intent toward Pyongyang and expressed willingness to discuss with North Korea without preconditions.

China Uses North Korea as Buffer State: Pompeo

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on July 13 that China deters North Korea from participating in denuclearization efforts pursued by the United States because Beijing benefits from Chairman Kim [Jong Un] continuing to hold his nuclear weapons.

During a video interview at the Asian Leadership Conference in Seoul, hosted by South Korean media Chosun Ilbo, Pompeo said the Chinese regime uses Pyongyang as an important buffer state, because Washington then has to spend energies to defend East Asia against North Koreas nuclear weapons systems.

President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un walk together south of the Military Demarcation Line that divides North and South Korea on June 30, 2019. (Brendan Smialowski/AFP/Getty Images)

Pompeo, who was one of the key people that made the historic TrumpKim summits in 2019 possible, believes that Kim is a puppet of the Chinese leader Xi Jinping. He said that Kim has limited degrees of freedom.

Not a single one of the meetings that I had with Chairman Kim, nor any meeting that President Trump had with Chairman Kim was not preceded by [Kim] meeting with Xi Jinping, Pompeo said.

There were times I had serious conversations with Chairman Kim only to find that right after my departure, a call from Xi Jinping came in and said, Dont you dare head down that path with that Secretary of State, he added.

Pompeo said that Kim was savvy and wanted to give up nuclear weapons in exchange for greater economic engagement from the United States. However, the Chinese regime didnt allow him to take that direction.

North Korea also issued a statement on Aug. 8 regarding Pelosis visit to Taiwan, expressing its support to China and accusing the United States of interfering with the internal affairs of other countries. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and vows to conquer it by force if necessary.

China conducted live-fire drills surrounding Taiwan in alleged retaliation against Pelosis visit to Taiwan, even though Pelosi has said that her visit was not to change the status quo for Taiwan but rather to maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait in accordance with the Taiwan Relations Act and U.S.China policy.

Nicole Hao contributed to this report.
Treasurer, Matt Kean speaks during a press conference in Randwick in Sydney, Australia, on Oct. 18, 2021. (Brendon Thorne/Getty Images)

NSW Treasurer Matt Kean Elected States Deputy Liberal Leader

Treasurer Matt Kean has been elected unopposed as New South Wales (NSW) deputy Liberal leader as the states parliament resumes sitting after the winter break.

Government whip Nathaniel Smith announced on Tuesday Kean would take up the role.

With only one candidate stood for election, our new deputy leader  was elected unopposed, Smith said.

The position became vacant after Stuart Ayres resigned from the ministry last week over his involvement in the appointment of former deputy premier John Barilaro to a controversial overseas trade role.

NSW parliament resumes on Tuesday with an embattled minority government attempting to stop a series of scandals from running all the way to the March election.

The choice of a new deputy leader was effectively made for the Liberals on Monday.

The only other Liberal to put their hand up, Transport Minister David Elliott, put it back down hours after Mr Kean confirmed he would also run.

As parliament resumes, Ayres and former fair trading minister Eleni Petinos will both shift to the back benches.

Ayres spent more than eight years as a minister, while Petinos faces an easier adjustment after less than eight months in cabinet.

After defending Petinos as bullying allegations emerged from her office, Leader Dominic Perrottet booted the minister following further information about her conduct.

He could face questions over the specifics of that information from opposition and crossbench spoilt for choice on which scandals to pursue.

Perrottet became premier in October after Gladys Berejiklian stepped down amid a corruption investigation, which is yet to be resolved.

Former deputy premier John Barilaros separate but near-simultaneous resignation has presented problems after he was appointed as a senior trade and investment commissioner to the Americas.

He resigned from the role within two weeks of his appointment becoming public in June, noting it had become untenable.

But questions persist on how he won the position, with a committee inquiry into the appointment hearing from Barilaro on Monday.

He said the inquiry failed to produce any evidence he had done anything wrong, but he regretted ever applying for the job.

The inquiry is separate to a Department of Premier and Cabinet review of the appointment, a draft of which prompted Ayres resignation after it identified he might have interfered in the hiring process.

Labor is seeking to expand the scope of the inquiry to other overseas trade and investment postings, which it has promised to abolish if it wins the election in March.

The government is also facing dual inquiries into the response to the devastating flooding that hit the state earlier this year.

The premier has received a report from former NSW chief scientist Mary OKane and former police commissioner Mick Fuller, but is yet to release it as promised.

The final report from a parliamentary committees separate inquiry into the states flood response will be tabled on Tuesday.

The coalition has ruled NSW since a landslide 2011 election victory, but its third term is nearing its end in a minority government after the Liberals ejected two members.

Kiama MP Gareth Ward is facing sexual assault charges, while Drummoyne MP John Sidoti was recently found corrupt by the states integrity watchdog.

The premier said in July he would seek to suspend Sidoti from parliament after he refused to resign over a corrupt conduct finding he has vowed to fight.
Nurse in Deadly LA Crash Facing 6 Murder Charges: Gascon

LOS ANGELESA nurse from Houston accused of running a red light and speeding into a Windsor Hills intersection, sparking a fiery chain-reaction crash that killed six peopleincluding a pregnant mother, her infant son, and her unborn babywas charged Aug. 8 with six counts of murder.

Nicole Lorraine Linton, 37, was also charged with five counts of gross vehicular manslaughter for Aug. 4s crash at La Brea and Slauson avenues. District Attorney George Gascon said his office cannot file the manslaughter charge in a case involving an unborn child.

Lintons arraignment has been postponed until Oct. 26. If convicted as charged, she could face 90 years to life in prison, Gascon said.

She was arrested Friday while she was still hospitalized for moderate injuries sustained in the crash, according to the California Highway Patrol. She was released from Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center over the weekend and was held on $9 million bail at the Century Regional Detention Center, according to jail records.

According to a highway patrol statement: Preliminary investigation indicates Nicole Lorraine Linton was driving a dark-colored Mercedes, traveling southbound on La Brea Avenue at a high rate of speed when the crash occurred around 1:40 p.m. Thursday.

While driving the Mercedes, Linton proceeded through a red light and collided into multiple vehicles traveling eastbound and westbound on Slauson Avenue. As a result of this collision, multiple parties were ejected and two vehicles were fully engulfed in flames. Following the collision, involved parties were transported to [Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center] by ambulance and six individuals were declared deceased on scene, the highway patrol continued.

A LinkedIn page for Nicole Lorraine Linton states she is a traveling nurse from Houston, employed by a health care staffing agency, and has been working in the intensive care unit at Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Medical Center.

Kaiser Permanente issued a statement Friday saying, Everyone at Kaiser Permanente is deeply saddened by Thursdays horrific crash. Its impossible to imagine the pain those involved are experiencing. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy. At this time, we are not able to comment on what has been reported as a criminal investigation.

The pregnant woman who died in the crash was identified Friday by the coroners office as 23-year-old Asherey Ryan of Los Angeles. She and her male fetus were among the victims killed in the crash.

According to Ryans family, the womans 11-month-old son, Alonzo Quintero, was also killed, along with Ryans boyfriend, who was the father of her unborn son.

Ryans boyfriend was driving the car when the crash happened, according to a video posted online by Ryans sister, Shoshanna Kerr.

Kerr identified him as Reynold Lester, 24, of Los Angeles, who worked as a security guard.

In the video, Kerr said Ryan was 8 1/2 months pregnant, and she was on her way to a doctors appointment when the crash occurred.

The family was planning to name the unborn infant Armani Lester, according to the Los Angeles County coroners office.

She left the house at 1:30. She woke me up, Kerr said. She woke me up and told me she was going to go to her doctors appointment, that she loved me and shell be right back.

She said that 15 minutes later, she saw the video of the car crash.

And for some reason, as soon as I saw that video, it hit me. It felt different. I felt connected, she said.

Kerr said she cried throughout the night.

I didnt sleep one bit, she said. Im all cried out.

Shoshanna Kerr also told reporters that Ryans family forgives the driver who caused the crash.

I just want to tell her that we forgive her, she said. She will have to live with this for the rest of her life. Thats why she was spared. We understand it already.

A GoFundMe page established on behalf of the family had raised nearly $145,000 as of Monday afternoon.

Friends and family of the victims have gathered nightly at the crash site to remember and say goodbye to the victims. Lighted candles dotted a memorial near the site of the fiery crash.

Saturdays gathering included some Los Angeles County firefighters who were among the first to respond to the crash.

Dramatic surveillance video from the scene Thursday showed the Mercedes plowing through the 35 mph zone on La Brea at a speed authorities estimate neared 100 mphspeeding through a red light at Slauson and broadsiding a vehicle.

The crash ignited an inferno as the sedan struck by the Mercedes was pushed into at least one other vehicle, and both wound up against a gas station sign on the corner. A trail of fire was left burning in the intersection as the vehicles struck by the speeding driver were engulfed in flames.

The California Highway Patrol reports indicate eight vehicles, including Lintons, were involved in the collision. The heavily damaged Mercedes ended up near a bench down the street.

A sixth victim was later found dead in the burned wreckage of one vehicle, but further information about that person has not been released, according to the report.

Eight others were injured in the collision, including seven occupants of a Chevrolet Traverse. The 33-year-old driver, a year-old boy, and three teenagers suffered moderate injuries, while two other teens inside the vehicle had only minor injuries.

The eighth victimthe 19-year-old driver of an Audi A3also suffered minor injuries.
U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) talks with Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu (L) before boarding a plane at Taipei Songshan Airport in Taipei, Taiwan, on Aug. 3, 2022. (Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Handout via Reuters)

Pelosi Says US Cannot Allow China to Isolate Taiwan, Calls Xi A Scared Bully

U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) reaffirmed her support for Taiwan on Aug. 9 after returning from her Asia tour, and said Chinas leader Xi Jinping reacted to her Taiwan visit like a scared bully.

In an interview on NBCs Today show, Pelosi reiterated, We cannot allow the Chinese government to isolate Taiwan. Pelosi is the highest-ranking U.S. official in 25 years to visit Taiwan during her five-country Asia trip last week, which also included Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and Japan.

The Chinese communist regime on the mainland responded to Pelosis historic visit with days-long aggressive live-fire military drills in the waters surrounding Taiwan, a self-governing democratic island.

A map shows the locations of Chinas military drills that are set to run in six zones around Taiwan from Aug. 4 to Aug. 7, 2022. (Screenshot via The Epoch Times via Reuters)

After the communists won Chinas civil war in 1949 and established the communist Peoples Republic of China (PRC), the legitimate nationalist government, the Republic of China (ROC, 1911present), retreated to Taiwan.

The United States severed official diplomatic ties with Taiwan (ROC) and established formal diplomatic relations with Beijing in 1979, but maintains informal relations with Taipei. The United States is obligated by federal law to ensure that Taiwan has all the necessary means to defend itself.

Hes Acting Like a Scared Bully

The Chinese regime claims sovereignty over the island that it has never ruled and calls itself the sole leader of both mainland China and Taiwan. It sees the visit of a high-ranking foreign government official to Taiwan as formal recognition of the islands sovereignty. The Chinese regime made several threats in an effort to deter Pelosi from visiting Taiwan.

When asked about Chinas aggressive responses in an interview on MSNBCs Morning Joe on Aug. 9, Pelosi said about Xi, I think that hes in a fragile crisis  he has problems with his economy. Hes acting like a scared bully. She added that Xis focus now is to get reelected in the upcoming CCPs national congress.

Pelosi also said on the Today show that Xi has his own insecurities and she wont let him control the schedule of members of U.S. Congress. We met with every Speaker in all five countries, and their members of parliament, so its very productive. And in terms of Taiwan, we were not going to take Taiwan off our list because the president of Taiwan has invited us. President of China does not do our schedule, she emphasized.

(L-R) U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) poses for photographs with Taiwans President Tsai Ing-wen, at the presidents office in Taipei, Taiwan, on Aug. 3, 2022. (Handout/Getty Images)

In assessing her trip, Pelosi declared, Yes, it was worth it. She added that she had received overwhelming bipartisan support for her visit to Taiwan.

Nikki Haley, former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and a potential Republican presidential candidate in 2024, expressed her support for Pelosis visit to Taiwan on Aug. 7, telling media, I do think that Nancy Pelosi was right to go to Taiwan. She said that the United States should not cave to Chinas temper tantrums and criticized President Joe Biden for not being more supportive.
An elderly woman is piggybacking a boy along a street in Beijing, China on May 11, 2020. (Noel Celis/AFP via Getty Images)

Plummeting Chinese Population Reveals Young Peoples Reluctance to Have Children: Expert

Chinas senior population official acknowledged in an annual population meeting that Chinas population growth slowed down and was expected to record a decline before 2025.

Yang Wenzhuang, director of population monitoring and family development division of Chinas National Health Commission, said at the meeting that Chinas population is projected to enter a negative increase, according toa state-owned Chinese financial news portal Caixin on July 22.

Chinas provinces and municipalities have published their population data, alongside other statistics, for the year ending Dec. 31, 2021. Six provincesGuangdong, Henan, Shandong, Sichuan, Hebei, and Anhuieach recorded an increase of over 500,000 people

Although the population of Anhui Province grew in the past year, the number of births decreased by 47.6 percent from 2017 to 2021, after declining for four consecutive years, which Yicai called a cliff-like drop in September 2021. Yicai predicted Anhui would have 530,000 births by the end of the year, but the actual number was 515,800, according to the provincial health commission.

On July 11, the United Nations published World Population Prospects 2022 (pdf), a report on world population trends from 1950 to 2050. It says that China is expected to experience an absolute decline as early as 2023 and that, next year, India will surpass China as the worlds most populous nation.

A Chinese girl rides her scooter outside the gates of the Forbidden City, which remains closed to visitors, in Beijing, China, on April 19, 2020. (Kevin Frayer/Getty Images)

By the end of 2021, Chinas total population reached 1.41 billion, an increase of only 480,000 from what it was at the end of 2020.

Chinas Youth Reluctant to Have Children: Expert

The population decline occurred even after the CCP abolished its brutal one-child policy in 2016, and encouraged young couples to have two children. Last year, the Chinese regime encouraged Chinese couples to have three children. An expert on the Chinese economy believes that the low birth rate reveals peoples unwillingness to have children.

Housing, education, childcare, and medical costs all add up to an absolutely prohibitive cost of having two more children, said Frank Tian Xie, a John M. Olin Palmetto professor in business and associate professor of marketing at the University of South Carolina Aiken.

Young people simply do not want to get married or have children as a result of the high costs, Xie told the Chinese language edition of The Epoch Times in a recent interview.

On June 22, 2021, the mother of a 12-year-old in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, released in a social media post that it has cost a total of $144,000 to raise her child to date.

Dividing the total expense by 12 years, the average annual expenditure would be $12,000, which exceeds the citys 2020 average personal disposable income (PDI) of $10,700.

During the draconian lockdown of Shanghai from late March to June, a young man from Shanghai refused to go to a quarantine camp. When police told him that his attitude and lack of cooperation would affect his family for three generations, the man replied, This is the last generation.

James Gorrie, author of The China Crisis, noted in a commentary for The Epoch Times in June that the response of the last generation allows young people to easily express their own despair with life and is borne of despair and disillusionment with life in modern China.

Xu Jian contributed to the article.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during the Turning Point USA Student Action Summit held at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Fla., on July 22, 2022. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Pompeo, DeSantis Respond to FBI Raid at Trumps Mar-a-Lago Home

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and other GOP leaders have responded to an FBI search of the 45th Presidents Florida Mar-a-Lago home after former president Donald Trump said it was currently under siege, raided, and occupied on Aug. 8.

Decrying the alleged raid in a post on his social media app, Truth Social, Trump said, these are dark times for our Nation.

After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, he said.

Taking to Twitter following Trumps post, Republican leaders condemned the alleged raid, with several warning that such a move could set a dangerous precedent, while others accused the Biden administration of weaponizing the Justice Department for political purposes.

Pompeo, the former secretary of state under Trump, said that executing a warrant against a former president of the United States was a dangerous precedent to set.

The apparent political weaponization of DOJ/FBI is shameful. AG must explain why 250 yrs of practice was upended with this raid, Pompeo wrote. I served on Benghazi Com where we proved Hilliary (sic) possessed classified info. We didnt raid her home.

A car passes in front of former President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla., on Feb. 11, 2022. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

The raid is mostly likely connected to an investigation regarding Trumps handling of official papers. His lawyer, Christina Bobb, confirmed with CNN on Monday night that the FBI had seized documents during their search at his Mar-a-Lago home.

The FBI is directed by Christopher Wray who was appointed by Trump.

Banana Republic

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said the raid of Trumps home represents another escalation in the weaponization of federal agencies against the Regimes political opponents, while noting that people like President Joe Bidens son Hunter Biden get treated with kid gloves.

Hunter Biden is currently under federal investigation for alleged tax fraud, lobbying crimes, and money laundering in a probe dating back to as early as 2018.

Now the Regime is getting another 87k IRS agents to wield against its adversaries? Banana Republic, DeSantis said.

Elsewhere, Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) noted on Twitter that the midterm elections arent far off. Trump has hinted that he will run for president again in 2024, and teased last week that he could make an official announcement soon, either before or after the November elections.

Time will tell regarding this most recent investigation. However, launching such an investigation of a former President this close to an election is beyond problematic, Graham wrote.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) questioned why the FBI had declined to raid the homes of previous administrations, including the Clintons and Obama.

Bill and Hillary Clinton took $28,000 worth of furnishings from the White House. Obama violated the Presidential Records Act. Why did the FBI not raid their houses? This is a political witch hunt to take down President Trump, the GOP lawmaker said.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump address guests at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on Jan. 20, 2021. (ALEX EDELMAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Kevin McCarthy, the Republican minority leader in the House, said in a statement that the justice department had reached an intolerable state of weaponized politicization and vowed that, when Republicans take back the House, they will conduct immediate oversight of the department, follow the facts and leave no stone unturned.

Attorney General Garland: preserve your documents and clear your calendar, he added.

Start With Hunter Bidens Laptop

Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.) also said on Twitter that the FBI raid on Trumps home was unprecedented and highly concerning, and that if the FBI is looking for classified info or incriminating evidence, they should start with Hunter Bidens laptop. He added the hashtag #Demdoublestandard.

Meanwhile, Ronna McDaniel, chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, said: Absolute power corrupts absolutely. Countless times we have examples of Democrats flouting the law and abusing power with no recourse.

Democrats continually weaponize the bureaucracy against Republicans. This raid is outrageous. This abuse of power must stop and the only way to do that is to elect Republicans in November, McDaniel added.

The FBI has declined to comment to The Epoch Times on the alleged raid.

While GOP lawmakers condemned the move, the Lincoln Project, an anti-Trump PAC, alleged in a statement that the raid is a positive sign that Donald Trump may be brought to justice for the myriad of criminal offenses committed by him and his family while President.

Never before has a former Presidents home been raided in a criminal probe. While this search warrant is seemingly for the mishandling of classified material, it is a serious crime that must be fully investigated, the group said, adding that the raid is the first step for law enforcement, or Congress, of holding Donald Trump accountable for the orchestration of a conspiracy to remain in power that resulted in the January 6th attack on our nations capital.

Trump expressed anger at the move, alleging in his Monday statement that it was part of the political persecution that has been targeting him now for years with the now fully debunked Russia, Russia, Russia Scam, Impeachment Hoax #1, Impeachment Hoax #2, and so much more, it just never ends. It is political targeting at the highest level! he wrote.

Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries, Trump added. Sadly, America has now become one of those countries, corrupt at a level not seen before.
Privacy Experts Disagree With RCMP That Spyware Is Similar to Wiretapping

Privacy experts say police and government use of extremely intrusive spyware needs to be tightly controlled, and the technology should be outlawed for the general Canadian public.

Former privacy commissioner Daniel Therrien told the committee he was not aware the RCMP has been using what it calls on-device investigative tools for more than a decade.

It was surprising that in the context of many, many debates in the public about the challenges of encryption (in policing), that when I was privacy commissioner I was not told that a tool was used to overcome encryption, he said.

During his tenure between 2014 and 2022, Therrien called for Parliament to strengthen Canadas privacy laws. In particular, he said privacy needs to be recognized as a fundamental human right under the law.

Therrien appeared before the House of Commons ethics committee Tuesday as part of its probe into the RCMPs use of spyware in 32 investigations over the last five years.

On Monday, senior RCMP officers told the committee that while the technology is new, the invasion of privacy on a digital device is similar to what police have done for years through wiretapping and installing surveillance cameras.

But experts, including Therrien, say thats not the case.

The state, the police, has access to everything on that phone, he said.

Sharon Polsky, president of the Privacy and Access Council of Canada, said spyware needs to be made unlawful except for in specific cases, when approved by an independent third party.

Theyre available commercially to anyone who has an internet connection and wants to download them, she said, noting that spyware has been used by human traffickers and in intimate partner abuse.

Nobodys talking about how the spyware is able to take advantage of the shortcomings, the deficiencies in so many software programs  Require that software be tested properly to minimize the opportunity.

Therrien agreed the technology can be lawfully used by police if there is an extremely compelling public interest, as in the case of serious crimes.

Such level of intrusiveness can still be lawful and consistent with privacy principles if the collection of information is authorized by law, and it is necessary and proportional to the achievement of compelling government objectives, Therrien said.

But he also said he cannot see any compelling reason why someone in the private sector should be able to use it.

The director of the University of Torontos Citizen Lab said spyware is like a wiretap on steroids, and requires more oversight and a much higher threshold for use than traditional wiretaps.

Ron Deibert will speak to the committee later Tuesday.

In prepared remarks provided to The Canadian Press, Deibert said what he calls the mercenary spyware industry is poorly regulated and associated with widespread abuses.

He said the industry is a threat to civil society, human rights and democracy and governments should be transparent about procurement of this technology.

Federal privacy commissioner Philippe Dufresne told the committee the Mounties didnt notify his office before starting to use the technology, and he learned about it through the media.

Hes called on MPs to make changes to privacy legislation that would require government departments and organizations to launch privacy impact assessments when new technology is introduced that could have an impact on the fundamental right to privacy.

By Sarah Ritchie
Joe Kent, a Republican who is challenging U.S. Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-Wash.), for her seat in Washington's 3rd Congressional District, poses for a photograph in Vancouver, Wash., on Feb. 23, 2022. (Taylor Balkom/The Columbian via AP)

Pro-Trump Candidate Pulls Ahead, Projected to Beat Incumbent Who Voted to Impeach Trump

Update: Rep. Beutler conceded on Aug. 9.

Original story below.

A Republican attempting to unseat a congresswoman who voted to impeach former President Donald Trump pulled ahead of the incumbent on Aug. 8, and is now projected to earn a spot in the general election.

Joe Kent, the GOP candidate, trailed Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-Wash.), who voted to impeach Trump, by thousands of votes soon after the Aug. 2 election.

But as more ballots have been counted, Kent began to gain on Beutler, and on Monday went from 303 votes down to 960 votes up.

After the latest batch of votes were tallied in Cowlitz, Clark, and Thurston counties, Cook Political Report, which forecasts and projects races, projected Kent will ultimately trump the incumbent.

We are in the lead & feeling strong, Kent said in a statement on social media.

Beutlers campaign did not respond to a request for comment on the updated results.

Kent urged people to check to make sure their ballot has not been rejected or returned. If it has, people can try to fix the issue and resubmit their ballot.

Kent himself had his ballot rejected, forcing him to go and verify his signature, he told the National Pulse.

More Counting

Cowlitz County has approximately 480 ballots left to count, Thurston County has about 7,000, and Clark County has about 10,000, according to the county election websites.

Officials in Thurston and Clark counties expect to give the next updates on the tallies during the afternoon of Aug. 9.

Cowlitz County says its next update will take place on Aug. 10.

Clark County Auditor Greg Kimsey told The Epoch Times that the work includes verifying signatures on ballots that were sent by mail, a process done by people who are trained by the Washington State Patrols fraud unit.

When signatures dont match, the ballots become challenged. Voters are contacted and given the opportunity to cure the issue. If they dont, the ballot does not count.

Almost 2,000 ballots have become challenged so far, a much larger number than recorded in past elections.

Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-Wash.) questions Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta as he testifies during a House Appropriations Committee hearing on the Labor Budget for Fiscal Year 2020 on Capitol Hill in Washington on April 3, 2019. (Al Drago/Getty Images)

Top-Two Primary

In Washington state, candidates of all parties run in a single primary, and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election.

Regardless of whether Kent or Beutler emerge in second place, theyll face off against Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, a Democrat business owner who received the most votes in the race to represent the states 3rd Congressional District.

Perez on Monday expressed confidence.

Joe Kent has now pulled ahead of Herrera Beutler and it appears he will be our opponent in November. Kent will only add to the dysfunction paralyzing our country. With your backing we can reject extremism and support the common good. I look forward to earning your support! she said in a statement.

Kent is the clear favorite to win if he advances, because the district is rated Republican plus-five due to its voter pattern and history, Dave Wasserman, an editor of the Cook Political Report, wrote on Twitter.

Beutler won in 2020 with 56 percent of the vote, in 2018 with 52 percent of the vote, and in 2016 with 62 percent of the vote. She has been in office since 2011.
Minister of Public Safety Marco Mendicino rises during question period in the House of Commons, on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Feb. 4, 2022. (Patrick Doyle/The Canadian Press)

Public Safety Minister Provides Committee With Few Details on RCMPs Spyware Use

Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino provided few details when questioned on Aug. 8 about his knowledge of the RCMPs use of spyware technology capable of remote installation and surveillance on Canadians personal devices.

Appearing before the House of Commons Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics, Mendicino was hesitant to give direct answers to questions about the RCMPs possible circumvention of obtaining warrants necessary to use the technology, and about the agencys lack of transparency with Canadas Privacy Commissioner, Philippe Dufresne, in using the software.

Testifying ahead of Mendicino, Dufresne said he was unaware of the RCMPs use of the spyware until he learned about it from the media. He further said that prior to implementing the software the agency did not consult with him about possible privacy infringements the software could pose for Canadians.

It is unfortunate that the privacy commissioner has reported that he learned about the use of this particular investigative technique in the media, Mendicino said.

That is something that I have discussed with the RCMP, and Im pleased to report  that they are now actively engaged with the privacy commissioner to ensure that the use of this technique  is consistent with the charter.

Responding to Mendicino, NDP committee member Matthew Green said that the Liberal government doesnt seem to foster a culture of transparency and openness by default, and that agencies like the RCMP should cooperate more with the privacy commissioner.

This is now the third situation which I think could have been avoided on committee, quite frankly, if these agencies had gone on the record and pursuedwith full engagement and full cooperationprivacy impact assessments, Green said.

Mendicino also didnt answer directly when questioned about his knowledge of whether the RCMP made use of legal loopholes allowing them to circumvent the normal judicial processes of obtaining a superior court judges warrant before using the spyware technology.

These techniques, if and when they are used, are always done in a manner that is consistent with the law and the charter, he said.

The committee had earlier requested RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki to provide a list of warrants or any other information pertaining to federal police using the spyware to monitor MPs. Lucki refused, saying in an Aug. 4 letter: This information will not be provided by the RCMP.

The committees chair, Conservative MP Pat Kelly, called her refusal troubling.

A committee of Parliament has unfettered powers to request documents, said Kelly, according to Blacklocks Reporter. Just a blanket refusal to a committee is troubling.

Transparency

Several committee members went on to ask Mendicino if he would support legislation making privacy impact assessments (PIAs) a legal requirement for agencies like the RCMP before they can use special investigative techniques that could infringe on the privacy of Canadians.

Mendicino replied that there are already a number of mechanisms [in place] that assure transparency, but that the government should always be open to having a conversation on how [it] can raise the bar.

Mendicino summarized by saying he hopes the RCMP is committed to building transparency and the trust of Canadian citizens.

I hopeI thinkthat the RCMP understands and shares our point of view about the importance of transparency and the importance of working alongside all institutions. which exist to protect Canadians charter rights, he said.

The RCMP said in a statement on June 22 that it used the spyware in 10 targeted investigations between 2018 and 2020 and only after having received warrants from superior court judges allowing them to do so.

However, Global News reported on Aug. 8 that, in documents filed with the committee that day, RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki said the agency has used the spyware in 32 investigations since 2017 on a total of 49 individual devices.

Lucki said the spywares use is always targeted, time-limited, and never to conduct unwarranted or mass surveillance.
A child uses an Apple smartphone in this undated file image. (PA)

Rapid Rise in Self-Generated Child Abuse Imagery Since Lockdowns in UK: Report

New data shows a significant increase in the number of British primary school children generating their own sexual abuse imagery since lockdowns.

Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), which published the data, is a UK-based organisation with the goal of finding and removing images and video online child abuse. IWF is an independent charity funded by members who include Amazon, Cisco, Google, Sky, Tik Tok, and BT (British Telecom).

It has legal powers to conduct searches of images.

IWF found 20,000 items of child sexual abuse imagery in the first half of 2022 including self-generated content of seven to 10-year-old children.

According to IWF that is 8,000 more instances than the same period last year. Compared to the same period in 2020, there has been a 360 percent increase in self-generated images by children in the range of seven to 10 years old.

In some cases, children are groomed, deceived, or extorted into producing and sharing a sexual image or video of themselves, IWF said in a press release.

IWF called the rapid growth of this material, showing primary-aged children, a social and digital emergency, which needs focussed and sustained efforts from the government, the tech industry, law enforcement, education, and third sectors to combat it.

Susie Hargreaves, IWF chief executive, called on the government to press ahead with the Online Safety Bill which has been delayed until the autumn.

That is why the Online Safety Bill is so essential. Children everywhere need the UK government to be role models in internet regulation and for Ofcom to acknowledge experts, like IWF, who are experienced in tackling this criminality online. The efforts in this area are being watched around the world, Susie Hargreaves said.

To achieve this client-side software would have to be included in all messaging applications which could only be written by big tech companies.

Freedom of speech campaigners have warned that the Online Safety Bill in its current form allows governments and corporations to spy on everyone. The bill gives regulators the power to look for child abuse images or face big fines.

Monica Horten, an independent tech policy analyst and advisor to Open Rights Group, a free speech advocacy think tank, told the BBC in July that what was being proposed in the bill is a form of mass surveillance.

It is looking at everybodys content and without a warrant which the government would normally require, she said in a BBC interview.

Writing for the Open Rights Group Horten said, the bill is misconceived, driven by a political rhetoric about the harms of big tech, and a blindness towards the way in which the measures in the Bill could themselves cause other harms.

Home Secretary, Priti Patel has previously backed the Online Safety Bill.

Online child sexual abuse has a lifelong effect on victims. I have pursued policies and actions to ensure technology companies are held accountable for keeping our children safe, Patel said.

In July, the government announced the Online Safety Bill has been put on hold until autumn.

The planned legislation has been criticized by some in the tech industry.

Twitters head of site integrity, Yoel Roth, said he sees governments become more aggressive in how they try to use legal tactics to unmask the people using our service and as a way to silence people.

WhatsApp CEO, Will Cathcart, said his company might cease operating in the UK if the Online Safety Bill reaches the statute book in its current form.

Whats being proposed is that we  read everyones messages. I dont think people want that Cartcart said.
Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) delivers a closing statement during a hearing by the House Select Committee to investigate the Jan. 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol breach, in the Cannon House Office Building in Washington, DC, on July 21, 2022. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Rep. Liz Cheney Says She Likes Working With Democrats More Than Republicans

Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) said she likes working with the Democrats in Congress more than the Republicans, though she reiterates she wont leave the GOP.

In an interview with the New York Times published on Aug. 7, Cheney, the vice chair of the House Jan. 6 committee, said shes not interested in switching parties.

Im a Republican, Cheney said.

Still, Cheney, the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, called her party very sick.

The GOP is continuing to drive itself in a ditch, and I think its going to take several cycles if it can be healed, Cheney said during the interview at a house party on Aug. 4.

Cheney noted she would prefer working with Democrat congresswomen rather than Republican ones.

I would much rather serve with Mikie Sherrill and Chrissy Houlahan and Elissa Slotkin than Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert, even though on substance certainly I have big disagreements with the Democratic women I just mentioned, Cheney said, according to the report. But they love this country, they do their homework and they are people that are trying to do the right thing for the country.

Cheneyone of the only two Republicans serving on the committee investigating the Jan. 6 breach of the U.S. Capitolhas been vocal in her criticism of former President Donald Trump and voted to impeach him in his second trial. The move prompted the Wyoming Republican Party last year to censure her before deciding to stop recognizing her as one of its members.

2024 Bid

As for her own potential presidential bid, the Wyoming lawmaker said she would focus on her primary and the work on the Jan. 6 committee.

But Cheney also stated she would find it very difficult to support Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a would-be 2024 Republican presidential nominee.

I think that Ron DeSantis has lined himself up almost entirely with Donald Trump, and I think thats very dangerous, Cheney said.

There has been speculation that Cheney could run for president in 2024, which she has left her door open. In an interview with CNN on July 24, when asked whether she was willing to run for president to prevent Trump from winning the presidency again, she reiterated she hasnt decided yet, but would make a decision down the road.

The Wyoming lawmaker is facing tough battles in the upcoming Aug. 16 Republican primary against Harriet Hageman, a challenger endorsed by Trump.

A recent poll in the Casper Star-Tribune shows Cheneys support is at 30 percent, trailing significantly behind Hageman, who received 52 percent support. No other candidates in Wyoming have over 5 percent support.

The three-term Republican congresswoman has already turned to the Democrats for help. On her campaigns website, a newly added question and answer section that includes instructions on how to change party affiliation in order to vote for her.
We need to quit this viewpoint that theyre a strategic competitor. China and the Communist Party [see] the United States of America as their enemy. And they treat us as such. Its time we start acting like theres an enemy out there, says Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

At the Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas, Texas, we sat down with Perry to discuss Speaker Nancy Pelosis recent trip to Taiwan, the Chinese regimes threats to shoot down her plane, how Beijing is exploiting Americas strategic weaknesses, and what holding the Chinese regime to account would actually look like.

Perry argues that the United States should classify and characterize the Chinese Communist Party as a transnational criminal organization.

If you look at the evidence, everything that they do qualifies them for that, Perry says.

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Jan Jekielek:

Congressman Scott Perry, its such a pleasure to have you on American Thought Leaders.

Rep. Scott Perry:

It is great to be with you. And of course, the subject couldnt be more appropriate at the moment.

Mr. Jekielek:

Absolutely, and its high time. Ive been following your career and your thoughts about China for years now. The Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, landed in Taiwan, and met with the highest officials in Taiwan. The Taiwanese were thrilled with her visit. It met with mixed reactions worldwide, and very strong verbal reactions from the Chinese regime. Whats your take?

Rep. Scott Perry:

My take is that Im happy that America is representing itself in Taiwan and meeting with the leadership in Taiwan. Im invigorated that China sees that. Look, everybody knows Im not a big fan of the speaker, or the speakers policies. Regardless, the speaker represents the United States of America and the speaker went to Taiwan. Thats a big deal. While we dont have a treaty obligation, its important that the United States, not just rhetorically, but with action, lets the rest of the world know that we stand shoulder to shoulder with free people, people that want to be free, people that have democracies, and people that reject oppression, dictatorships, and totalitarian leadership around the world.

Of course, its front and center with China being right there across the strait. For Taiwan, its not just a rhetorical thing. Its not like someone is an ocean away stealing the things that you fought for and the freedoms that you have. Its right there in their face. Every time something like this happens, its a good thing for the cause of freedom around the globe. It is good when America stands up for countries that want to be free like Taiwan.

Mr. Jekielek:

There were actually threats from the top through their state media suggesting that her plane might be shot down. There were numerous things like that. That was probably the most extreme, saying that action would be taken. What do you make of this?

Rep. Scott Perry:

First of all, it needs to be a wake up call to anybody in America thinking the status quo will always remain the status quo. I am talking about the United States of America always being the global leader. Americans just assume this, because in their lifetimes, that is how its always been. But there has been a big price to pay for that. Of course, the cost of freedom is eternal vigilance. What Americans should recognize is that the Communist Party of China and their state media made the calculation that there was no downside to threatening the United States. Essentially, it was an act of war, because theyre threatening to shoot you down. They are threatening to shoot down the Speaker of the House of the United States of America. They made a calculation there would be no downside, or a minimum downside to that.

Its a wake-up call that this cannot be business as usual. We need to see the Communist Party of China for what it is. We need to quit this viewpoint that theyre a strategic competitor. The Chinese Communist Party sees the United States of America as their enemy, and they treat us as such. Its time we start acting like theres an enemy out there.

Mr. Jekielek:

Do you think the Chinese state media is saying this in their official capacity, or is someone just mouthing off?

Rep. Scott Perry:

No, theres nothing in Chinese state media that is not controlled by the Communist Party. This is all by design. It is intentional. Theres a reason its happening, because weakness invites provocation. They feel comfortable doing it. They feel comfortable saying it, because at this moment, they judge us to be weak enough for them to get away with it. Thats really the important point that American citizens need to internalize. This isnt just happening because someone made a mistake, or somebody shot off their mouth. That doesnt happen in these controlled societies. It is all by design. The United States is currently projecting weakness, and has been over some time. You are seeing the consequences of that right now. And if you think these consequences are going to lessen, youre wrong. Actually, these consequences are going to increase.

Mr. Jekielek:

To quote you, youve talked about, the flacid response to Chinas threats of war in general. Youve also described us as having a failed One China policy. Please explain that to me.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Certainly the response has been mixed. Even in the administration, we see two different viewpoints that seem to be confusing to Americans and are taken advantage of by our adversaries, especially the Chinese. We dont support Taiwan, or the independence of Taiwan, yet well send our Speaker of the House over there. The speaker will meet with their highest leadership. We disagree with the goals of the Communist Chinese Party, but we dont really do anything meaningful regarding the theft of intellectual property, the disregard for international trade agreements, and the disregard for United States law. We disregard a host of things that the Chinese Communist Party does, from propaganda to spy operations. It might actually be worse than a flacid response. Its almost an emboldening and almost a willfully assistive response to the goals of the Chinese Communist Party.

We dont want to be in a war with China. Thats not our goal. Thats never been our goal. But at some point we have to acknowledge that the policy and the rhetoric from the United States has failed. Its a failed policy, and we are now long into this. We have got to begin starting at this moment. Every single moment that goes by is a wasted moment. We need to start digging ourselves back out of this carefully, because we dont want to be in a war with China and the Communist Party of China. But we have to understand our circumstances as well. We no longer have the largest navy on the planet. We no longer can project power like we could against the Chinese Communist Party, because of parity and things like hypersonic missiles, and maybe even the superiority of the Chinese Communist Party in space.

These things are all a very careful calculation. Unfortunately, the American people have very little confidence that this current administration has a coherent strategic plan for China in the short term and in the long term with. Quite honestly, as a conservative, there have been too many occasions where our side, the Republican Party in particular, has turned a blind eye to things that are unacceptable. So, were culpable in this too. We need to be not just throwing blame and pointing fingers, but collaboratively working with our friends on the other side of the aisle for the good of America and the good of the globe.

Mr. Jekielek:

For decades, it has been a bipartisan situation that has allowed the Chinese Communist Party to get away with many things, like building up these islands in the South China Sea.

Rep. Scott Perry:

There has been a lot of rhetoric, but zero action. Ive been on the Foreign Affairs Committee since I came to Congress. Up until COVID-19, there were plenty of bills that were submitted to the committee for consideration for a markup, and for a hearing. None of them ever came to be, not one in the entire time until COVID happened. So yes, its a problem with both sides. We were in the majority too. I was there when we were in the majority for a short period of time. In this regard, we have been complicit in our own demise. Of course, the first step towards recovery and health is recognizing your own failures and your own problems. We are complicit in this situation.

Mr. Jekielek:

When youre in a bad relationship, the other side is used to getting away with things. Its almost an expectation. Maybe this is what Chinese Communist Party is doing. Basically, you have this situation where its almost outrageous when you no longer follow the script. The script may have been that you capitulate, you agree, and you allow the other side to save face.

I was wondering whether Speaker Pelosi would actually end up in Taiwan, because historical precedent might suggest that she wouldnt go, if you look back at the last 20, 30 years. But she did. There was outrage before, and outrage after. How do you, safely change the status quo?

Rep. Scott Perry:

If youve had any type of relationship, at some point you realize that we teach each other what well accept. Thats kind of what you will get. So, if you keep on accepting poor treatment from the people youre in relationships with, theyre going to continue to give you poor treatment.

If on that one particular day you decide, Im done with this, but youve always allowed them to treat you poorly, theres going to be a reaction. You have to recognize and understand that. This is one of those moments where we have a choice to do it the right way. Look, theres two in this relationship. Theres a Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, and then of course, theres the United States of America. As a military guy, this is one of the things I know. The enemy always gets a vote. You have your plan, but the enemy gets a vote. Even though you planned a bunch of different things, the enemy might not respond like you expect.

We need to be prepared for that. At the outset, this is going to take some small, but very definitive steps to say, We have reevaluated this relationship and our circumstances. We dont appreciate the way youve been treating us. So, were moving things in a different direction right now. Then, we will see how they respond. Its important that we do that as soon as possible, because as time goes on, we will have less and less options based on their response.

Mr. Jekielek:

But weve taken a first step here.

Rep. Scott Perry:

We have taken the first step. But even as you say that, its my understanding that while the speaker decided not to be intimidated by the rhetoric of the Communist Chinese Party, the administration urged her not to go and was not in agreement. Thats not a good place for us to be. The speaker did visit Taiwan, its very high profile, and the world is watching. The Communist Party of China is also looking behind the scenes and knows that were not speaking with one voice. They are willing to exploit that division and that weakness.

Mr. Jekielek:

What would be the geopolitical implications were the U.S. to recognize Taiwan as a sovereign nation?

Rep. Scott Perry:

We dont know. Based on the rhetoric of the Communist Party, we speculate that potentially there could be a military incursion, and that potentially there could be punishment on economic terms to both us and Taiwan. The Chinese Communist Party is very calculating. Theyre anxious and they want to move up their timeline, especially when they sense weakness. I dont think that they necessarily would do anything rash, but here, again, the enemy always gets a vote. They might be calculating a whole different paradigm. They might say, Were not going to accept that. Now, weve gotten ourselves so far out on a limb that were going to be perceived as weak unless we do this. Its very important that we have some caution here, and I want to be careful about how I characterize this. You can push an animal thats typically docile into a corner, but once its in a corner and has to fight for its life, the character of that animal changes.

The prudent thing is to not push the animal into a corner, so that it has to fight its way back out. But we need a coherent strategy that all of us are on board with. All of us. It cant be that the speaker is heading here, and the president is heading there, Wall Street is heading here, and half the Congress is headed over there. Weve all got to be on the same page on this thing and somebody has to lead it. Unfortunately, theres been a lack of leadership at the top during this administration, but also to a certain extent in our own party. President Trump was taking the correct steps, but even as he was doing it, people within his own administration were undermining him. That cannot be allowed to happen.

There need to be consequences for that as well. The people that are doing that need to be reminded and somebodys probably going to have to be the example. Theres a bigger cause here. It is the cause of the sovereignty of the United States of America and of freedom around the globe. That is the cause. There have to be sacrifices.

Mr. Jekielek:

Talking about Wall Street very broadly, were in a situation where Chinese companies still are not required to have a normal audit. But at the same time, American companies that are working in China all have these partnerships set up where they are required to transfer their intellectual property. You mentioned that Wall Street needs to be on board with this. You are describing the one-country effort Secretary Pompeo talked about at one point. What is the likelihood of that happening, given these realities?

Rep. Scott Perry:

Look, nobody said this was going to be easy. I dont know the likelihood of it happening. But heres what I am confident in saying. There is almost no chance of it happening unless the people at the top of this administration, and quite honestly in the halls of Congress say Weve had enough of this. Were not going to stand for it any longer. Then, they have to take some concrete actions. Quite honestly, in this regard, the administration can take action right now. All they have to do is say to China, Youre working on the stock exchange, and the Securities and Exchange Commission says you must comply with audits like everybody else. This is a pretty easy sell to the American people.

The American people would be fine with this, even the ones that have questions. If you just say, Look, we would appreciate the reciprocity. We understand that you dont like this. Were going to do whats fair here. Were going to treat you like everyone else, and youre going to treat us like everyone else, or else were going to have an issue here. Somebody with the authority to make that change has to be willing to say that. The person with the authority is the president and the secretary of the Securities and Exchange Commission. They can start signaling and say, This is coming. It doesnt have to be a switch that you throw overnight. You can say, Look, we have decided this is our policy now. Were going to implement it in six months. But right now there has been no sign whatsoever that anything is going to change. The people that are taking advantage of us in this relationship sense that were okay with being taken advantage of, and theyre going to continue. They will see just how much they can take advantage of us.

Mr. Jekielek:

With the bills that you are mentioning, there are many reasons why most of them never made it. But what is the overall theme of these bills that would actually be beneficial to America?

Rep. Scott Perry:

There is a whole host of bills, from very moderate to pretty much in your face. For instance, we could classify and characterize the Chinese Communist Party as a transnational criminal organization. That might seem extreme to people. But if you look at the evidence, everything they do qualifies them for that classification. I know thats uncomfortable for some people. So, how about this? We just dont allow the thrift savings plan. Every service member in uniform is required to pay into these plans that invest in Chinese companies that are unaudited, and in many cases these plans are funding the very enemy that our service members in uniform are training to fight against. That seems pretty perfunctory to me, but yet none of those bills have come up, not one of them.

We cant even find a way to determine the origins of COVID 19, vis-a-vis the Chinese Communist Party, and the Wuhan Institute of virology. Were not even interested in that. These should be somewhat easy things. Theres a lot of money floating around. I understand theres a lot at stake, but the sovereignty of your country and your freedom is at stake too. We need to ascribe a value to that freedom, so that people can really understand what is truly at stake here.

Mr. Jekielek:

Is it the money, basically? Is that what youre saying? Is it the money that makes the difference?

Rep. Scott Perry:

Absolutely. A lot of it is about the money. Its front and center in some instances.. I hate to pick on the NBA, but they certainly deserve criticism. I get that the market in China is huge, but is that how we want to live? The NBA is happy to criticize the United States of America for whatever shortcomings we have, either currently, or through perceptions about our past. But theyre absolutely unwilling to criticize the Communist Party of China. As a matter of fact, even when they slightly dip their toe in the water, they have to publicly apologize for it. Is this a long, deeply held belief of theirs that the Communist Party of China is the moral high ground, the moral standard, and the beacon of light on the hill that all countries aspire to? Meanwhile, concentration camps are happening in East Turkistan.

You have the social credit system. You have the lack of freedom now in Hong Kong, before our very eyes, and the dissolution of the agreement. Im sorry, but its a linear equation. But we all understand this, and we know whats happening here. Yes, money is a powerful motivator, but youre betraying your own country for the money.

Mr. Jekielek:

Enes Kanter Freedom, formerly playing in the NBA, cant find work right now. And its not for lack of skill, thats for sure.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Thats exactly right.

Mr. Jekielek:

What about the money flowing in the halls of Congress?

Rep. Scott Perry:

That probably needs to be addressed. I dont have any that I know of, other than the fact that on occasion, my family shops at Walmart. So, if thats where were going, then we all need to know those are the new rules of play. Its important to see if the votes that are being taken and the bills that are coming to the forefront in Congress are being done so that somebody is enriching themselves based on their relationship with the Communist Party of China. Its also important to distinguish that were not talking about rank-and-file citizens in China that would like freedom themselves.

Were talking about the Communist Party and all the connections to that enterprise. If the things that are being done in Congress are enriching our legislators, and at the same time benefiting the CCP, that needs to be taken head on.

Mr. Jekielek:

I dont know if anyones done this calculation, but how much money does the Chinese regime spend on lobbying in Washington? And its not just federal lobbying, they have operations in every large state.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Absolutely, right down to the local level.

Mr. Jekielek:

Exactly.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Again, where is Congress on the oversight? We have a whole committee dedicated to that. I sit on foreign affairs, and theres an oversight subcommitteebut there has not been one hearing, and not one question.

Mr. Jekielek:

A lot of people are expecting the Republicans will take the gavel in the house, at least in the coming election. What are you going to do?

Rep. Scott Perry:

First of all, we have to shore up our own citizens that are greatly suffering right now. The cost of living right now, and the policies driving it are hitting home to every single citizen. As members of Congress, we need to start adding value as to why were in Congress. What are we doing for our citizens in our country? Im a representative of the American people in a district in Pennsylvania. So, thats number one, but part and parcel of that is also how were doing internationally. I grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania, and every little town had its own industry. Over the course of my lifetime, thats all gone. Those jobs are gone.

Those skills are gone. Those industries are gone. Most of them have gone overseas. Most of them have gone to Asia. A lot of them have gone to China at a speed and depth that is increasing. Its not just menial jobs. Now its high tech. If we want to preserve not only our country, but also well-being and opportunity for all Americans, we need to look at what our policies have been, what the results have been, and start making course corrections. And we havent seen it. We started a course correction during the last administration, but in the course of a year-and-a-half, thats already been wiped out. Weve got to start that long march again, and weve got to get both sides on board.

Mr. Jekielek:

Lets briefly take a side road here. There is one initiative that is pretty much stuck. Its the Clean Network Initiative, run by Under Secretary of State Keith Krach in the previous administration. It was getting Huawei out of our communications system, and also out of other countries systems. So, what about Huawei? Recently, theres been some buzz about maybe they really do have monitoring on these large structures.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Who knew, right? Who knew? Of course, we all knew. In circumstances like that theres no time to waste. The Left and the Right, Republicans and Democrats, and everybody in between needs to be speaking with one voice and an understanding that its bad for our country. Its not just politics, and its not just the Left versus the Right. We cant have these wild swings where were going to ban Huawei, and then the next administration comes in and says, We have no problem with them. The Chinese can wait us out. They can wait the four years. They can wait the eight years. In the meantime, theyre working all around the globe. Now at the same time, Republicans and fiscally-conservative Democrats, if there are any left, need to be aware that there might be a cost to this.

Oftentimes we call it cronyism, or crony-capitalism, but the Chinese are happy to dump all this technology on these struggling companies to get it embedded in there. Then, its in there. For upgrades these companies have to keep going back to the Chinese. Theres going to be a cost to America to do some of this stuff. The question is, is it a reasonable cost and can American recoup it? What we dont want to do is have American taxpayers pay for all this. The companies make all the money, they make all the profits, and China and Huawei continue. Thats not going to be acceptable. This is actually what weve seen, to a certain extent.

Mr. Jekielek:

Lets call it extreme subsidies for the CCP. It goes far beyond the immediate financial gain for corporations. For example, lets take the whole solar panel industry in China. It is massively subsidized to the point of almost cornering the market, and then basically being the only source. This isnt the only industry where this has been done. Do people realize this?

Rep. Scott Perry:

People like me scream it from the mountaintops every time we have the opportunity85 per cent sourcing of things like battery technology, battery critical components, solar panels, or slave labor-associated products, whether its in East Turkestan or whether its in Africa. Youre a part of that every time you purchase these things, and every time you advocate for this situation. Generally speaking, I dont know whether people know or care. They care about it when they know about it, but then maybe they dont believe it. They dont believe its at that scale. They dont believe the claims of over 90 per cent of the pharmaceuticals. They do not internalize that until it hits home. It hit home with the pharmaceuticals, at certain point during COVID.

Mr. Jekielek:

Please let me clarify, because we jumped from the solar panels. Youre saying a very significant portion of the ingredients of medicines sold in America are made in China

Rep. Scott Perry:

We cant get antibiotics in this country if were dependent on China, which is where we are right now. So again, if youre going to get into an openly adversarial, hostile relationship, understand that you better be prepared to quickly provide the medicines that your society needs. Right now we cant. Thats just one of the reasons that we have to be careful. So where the Right might have to come to the table on funding for some of this stuff, the Left also has to be willing to come to the table. Look at all these restrictions on getting critical minerals, because they like to call them rare earth minerals. Theyre not rare. Theyre under our feet in the United States of America, but its so restrictive we cant get them, and we wont get them. Theyre going to have to say, Look, theres a bigger cause here. Yes, were going to mine for them.

Theres going to be the things that occur with mining, but no one does it cleaner and more responsibly than the United States of America. But if were going to allow China to continue to do this, then be ready to be led around by the nose by the Communist Party of China.

Mr. Jekielek:

The picture youre painting here is that Congress hasnt been very effective on these matters.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Congress hasnt been effective. Congress has not been willing, for one reason or anotherwhether its courage, whether its people feathering their own nest, or whether its people voting in favor of someone else thats a constituency thats feathering the profit motive. Lets face it. What has Congress really done to reign in the Communist Party of China in America or globally? From my observation, it has been tepid rhetoric, at best.

Mr. Jekielek:

Lets get back to this issue. One of the things that you mentioned is that Chinas preferential trade status should be revoked.

Rep. Scott Perry:

I do think so.

Mr. Jekielek:

That would be a very significant move, which is probably a huge understatement. Of all the things I can imagine, that one would probably have the greatest consequence. Do you agree with me?

Rep. Scott Perry:

I definitely think it would. I dont necessarily think were going to just flip the switch. When I wake up to tomorrow morning, Im going to flip the switch and were going to announce it. You start letting China know that weve had enough and these will be the consequences. Heres what you can do so that this doesnt happen. You take these actions and then we can have a discussion about it. But if nothings going to happen in this amount of time, which we are going to lay out right nowheres the timeline, here are the concrete steps you can takethen were going to start taking some action. No one is talking in those terms whatsoever. What happens is people will get frustrated and say, If were not going to do anything, then Im just going to take this action.

We all go to our corners. We cant be that way. The leadership in Congress has to be willing to do this. When I say the leadership in Congress, its the speaker, its the minority leader, and its committee leadership as well. Its committee leadership, especially on the Foreign Affairs Committee, the Financial Services Committee, and the Energy and Commerce committee. Get together, take a stand, and work out a plan so we can start walking out of this box that we have put ourselves in.

Mr. Jekielek:

Is there anyone still talking about holding the Chinese Communist Party accountable for COVID?

Rep. Scott Perry:

No, not in any real way. Certainly the administration could be the strongest voice on that. But signaling that we are joining with the World Health Organization on this pandemic response policy doesnt bode well. Again, it should be rhetoric, followed by action. And we see nothing. I see nothing that signals the administration is willing to hold China accountable. They have different priorities. People that are following along know that the administration is following its own priorities, not the priority of holding China accountable. This has to be the priority.

Mr. Jekielek:

You introduced a bill in 2020 about this. It died, I would guess. Is it coming back?

Rep. Scott Perry:

Were going to continue to reintroduce it, but the other side of the aisle is not going to. First of all, they have to agree with it. Second of all, it doesnt have to be my bill. They can write the same bill and Ill support it. We wont love it, if they steal it. But were trying to get on the same page here. So, its certainly not going to come up while theyre in charge. The question is, will it come up when were in charge, or will we even have a conversation about it?

Mr. Jekielek:

Thats what Im asking.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Yes, I sure hope so.

Mr. Jekielek:

Lets jump back to this bill that would label the Chinese Communist Party a transnational criminal organization. It would be such a huge move politically that its almost unimaginable, even to people that are listening right now. But this has been something you have been serious about.

Rep. Scott Perry:

It is acting as a transnational criminal organization to the detriment of our country, to our society, and to our economy. Even if we had a markup on the bill, even if we just brought up the bill and had a hearing on the bill, it would start sending a signal. But when you dont even discuss that every single day the Chinese Communist Party gets away with all this stuff and we do nothing about it, it makes people wonder why do we have these designations if were not going to use them? Apparently, you can buy your way out of them. Were either a country of laws or were not. We have to influence the behavior of the Chinese Communist Party. The important part of this conversation is to alert America that this is happening, because they might not know it. We need to have them understand there is a separation between the Chinese people who are oppressed, and the Chinese Communist Party that oppresses them, and that the CCP wants to steal from us and replace us as the leader in the world.

How are they ever going to know? How are the people that are trying to pay their mortgage, get their kids to school, and deal with doctor bills and insurance and taxes going to internalize this if we never have the conversation?

Mr. Jekielek:

There is a stark distinction between the Chinese Communist Party and the Chinese people. Certainly there are people who support the Chinese regime, but theres certainly a lot that dont. Professor Sen Nieh from Catholic University was on the show talking about the Quit the Chinese Communist Party movement, also known as the Tuidang movement. That movement just reached 400 million people quitting the Communist Party over about a two decade period.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Yes. Here again, its easy for us. Were in America and its easy if you dont live somewhere in the clutches of the Chinese Communist Party to say, I quit the CCP, and Im sure many have done it. But the ones that are in their clutches understand the gravity of the situation. You can lose your livelihood, lose your family, and potentially, lose your life. This is a good opportunity for America to say, We stand with these people. We acknowledge these folks. We need to acknowledge the sacrifices they are making for the sake of freedom. We cannot continue to take for granted the liberties that we have, because they will be taken away, just like they have been taken away in Hong Kong, just like they are being taken away in Tibet, and just like they are being taken away in China. This is happening with the advent of Big Tech, and with the help of Big Tech in the United States .

When I say that, of course, they dont it see themselves. They see themselves as global companies founded and operated from the United States of America, but working with the Communist Chinese Party to oppress their people. Why is that acceptable in the United States of America by American citizens? Why is the forced organ harvesting of the Falun Gong acceptable for the American people? Why isnt the media covering it? Why is this not a bigger issue? Somebody has to make it a priority. As you know, I make it one of my priorities. But we need 435 in the house, and we need 100 in the Senate. And for goodnesss sake, we need the President of the United States to say something about this.

Mr. Jekielek:

Im glad that you mentioned this. Ive been reporting on this since 2006, and I have interviewed David Kilgour. You have probably met him, and he recently passed away, unfortunately. He was doing some of the initial work studying this issue and asking the question, Is there really a murder-for-organs industry in China? I remember this like it was yesterday. He had talked to a Taiwanese who had a rare antibody condition, and had eight different kidneys fitted over two months before the eighth one took. He explained to me the ethical scenario when this actually happened. Recently, we had the American Journal of Transplantation, the top-tier transplantation journal in the world, publishing about 73 cases of Chinese doctors killing people by extracting the heart. This is not conspiracy theory. But when we talk about it, I think back to the film Coma, and I think back to all these other crazy films. Its very difficult for people to grasp.

Rep. Scott Perry:

They cant imagine this would actually be happening in the 21st century, but every single sign points to it. We have to be careful here because no one has stood in the operating room with the lights on and the camera on interviewing the person thats about to have their organs taken out, and losing their life. I have a news flash for everybody. The Chinese Communist Party doesnt allow these kind of investigations in their country. But look at the fact that there is no waiting list for an organ transplant in China. Yet, in developed nations there are long waiting lists. People will sometimes pass away while waiting for a suitable organ match. Yet there is no waiting list in China. There have been investigations into this that have concluded, and confirmed as far as they can, that live organ harvesting happens in China.

We want to see the public outcry. We want to see Xi Jinping questioned on this in an open forum, and not be allowed to weasel out of answering that question. Thats what we want to to see. Not something behind closed doors, where you come back out and tell us afterwards that you brought it up.

Mr. Jekielek:

Heres one thing that has always troubled me. When a regime does this sort of thing, a lot of money is involved. This is a billion dollar industry, even by the most conservative calculations. How can you expect them to function ethically in other areas?

Rep. Scott Perry:

You know that they wont. Again, were doing what is easy. Were just turning a blind eye to these horrible things, because we want to do business over there. Morally and ethically, its completely unacceptable. And from a government standpoint, its unacceptable to essentially turn a blind eye as well. That is exactly what we have been doing for a long time. We have found some way to justify it, since we dont have the proof right in front of us. We dont have the person that had their organs harvested, the family members, or other witnesses. So, we cant do a thing about it. We have said, Never again in our lifetime. Its happening right now, and were not doing a thing about it.

Mr. Jekielek:

This was being done to the Falun Gong for more than a decade before it resulted in the current situation in Xinjiang.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Again, weakness is provocative. There was a dictator in the thirties that said, We watched what happened to the Armenians, and no one said a word, so we can just keep going. Thats why you cannot allow these things to occur at any level. As soon as you find out about them, they must be stopped. The United States is woefully lacking on this. Quite honestly, the free world is completely lacking on this.

Mr. Jekielek:

As we finish up, there was a significant turning point in the relationship with China during the Trump administration. This is one of the areas where there was some kind of bipartisan consensus. It was Speaker Pelosi that went to Taiwan after all, indicating that the CCP has to be dealt with in some way. Throughout this interview, you have talked about lots of structural problems in Congress and in the administration that are preventing this from happening. In a very concrete way, what can be done immediately to shift this?

Rep. Scott Perry:

The rhetoric is important. Public actions, like the one by the speaker are important to reset peoples minds about this. Probably the best thing to do is to look at the perils the United States faces in a world where China is in charge and is the global leaderwhether its pharmaceuticals, whether its technology, or whether its just general economics and finance. We need to prioritize those challenges and then assign a solution to each one. We need to prioritize them both legislatively and administratively. But right now there is no one plan that everybody can refer to, in order to identify the current, top problem. We cant say, This is a real problem now, but weve worked on it. We got it down to 50 per cent, now we need to shift to this other problem. Were being attacked from all sides. In the chaos of this attack, we cant pick something and start working on it, or were just unwilling to do it. Because right now it serves other interests, and were okay with that.

We cant look out far enough to see where this story ends. We have to start looking out far enough, come up with what our challenges are, prioritize our solutions, and then get to work on those solutions.

Mr. Jekielek:

Congressman Scott Perry, its such a pleasure to have you on the show.

Rep. Scott Perry:

Thank you so much for the opportunity and the forum. It is great, and its impactful for people. Thanks for bringing it to us.

Mr. Jekielek:

Thank you all for joining Congressman Scott Perry and I on this episode of American thought leaders. Im your host Jan Jekielek.

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Students walk to summer semester classes at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, Calif., on June 29, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Returning Community College Students May Have Tuition Waived Under California Bill

More Californians may soon go to community college for free under a bill introduced by a Los Angeles Assemblyman, which passed in the California Assembly in May and will be heard in the state Senate next week.

Assembly Bill 2266, known as the Free Community College for All program, was introduced by Assemblymembers Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles), Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside), and Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) earlier this year.

If passed, the bill will expand Californias fee waiver eligibility from first-time students to include returning studentsthose who have taken a break for two or more semestersin the California College Promise program.

I know that free community college will change the lives of all Californians, Santiago said in a press conference statement February. Educating communities empowers communities, plain and simple.

The program was established in 2017 by Assembly Bill 19 to provide financial support for full-time, first-time students for their first year of education. It was later expanded in 2019 by adding the second year of tuition for eligible students.

However, students who have previously earned a degree or certificate from a university, college, or vocational school would still not be eligible for the newest fee waiver proposal.

Assemblyman McCarty said that the bill will allow more students to receive higher education and obtain more opportunities.

Community College has a lot to offer and can provide many career and educational opportunities to hard-working Californians, McCarty said. Making community colleges free for all full-time students is a game-changer for Californians and another step towards providing a debt-free college throughout the state.

During the 2020-21 school year, more than 33,000 California Community College students received a tuition waiver, according to Santiagos office.

The California Community College Chancellors office estimates that about 41,532 returning students would be eligible for the new fee waiver. If the bill is signed into law, the state will pay about $5.7 million dollars per year for the program.

The Legislature included $25 million to expand the program in the states budget for the 2022-23 fiscal year. The bill is set to be heard by the Senates Appropriation Committee on Aug. 11.
Russian President Vladimir Putin chairs a meeting on the development of the country's metallurgical sector, via a video link at the Kremlin in Moscow on Aug. 1, 2022. (Sputnik/Pavel Byrkin/Kremlin via Reuters)

Russia Halts US Inspections of Its Nuclear Arsenals

MOSCOWRussia on Monday announced a freeze on U.S. inspections of its nuclear arsenals under a pivotal arms control treaty, claiming that Western sanctions have hampered similar tours of U.S. facilities by Russian monitors.

The move reflects soaring tensions between Moscow and Washington over Russias military action in Ukraine and marks the first time the Kremlin halted U.S. inspections under the New START nuclear arms control treaty.

In declaring the freeze on U.S. inspections, the Russian Foreign Ministry said the sanctions on Russian flights imposed by the United States and its allies, visa restrictions and other obstacles effectively have made it impossible for Russian military experts to visit U.S. nuclear weapons sites, giving the United States unilateral advantages.

The Biden administration had no immediate public response to the move.

Russia claimed that U.S. inspectors have not faced such difficulties, even though Moscow has closed its skies to the European Unions 27 nations, the UK and Canadathough not the United Statesafter the start of the conflict in Ukraine in late February. Russia said at the time that exceptions would be made for diplomatic missions and deliveries of humanitarian aid.

The Russian Foreign Ministry claimed that the freeze is temporary and allowed by the pact in exceptional cases.

It noted that Russia highly values the New START, adding that inspections could resume after the problems hampering them are solved.

Russia is fully committed to abiding by all of the provisions of New START, which we see as a crucial tool for maintaining international security and stability, the ministry said, urging a thorough study of all existing problems in this area, the successful settlement of which would allow a return to full-scale application as soon as possible of all verification mechanisms of the Treaty.

After the problems regarding the resumption of inspection activities under the Treaty are resolved, we will immediately lift the exemptions from inspection activities that we have announced, the ministry said.

The New START treaty, signed in 2010 by President Barack Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, limits each country to no more than 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads and 700 deployed missiles and bombers, and envisages sweeping on-site inspections to verify compliance.

Just days before the New START was due to expire in February 2021, Russia and the United States agreed to extend it for another five years.
A view of the prime minister's office Chigi Palace the day after Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi tendered his resignation to Italian President Sergio Mattarella, in Rome, Italy, on July 15, 2022. (Guglielmo Mangiapane/Reuters)

Russian and Chinese Influence in Italy Requires Investigation

Foreign interference could have caused the downfall of Mario Draghis centrist government

Commentary

Matteo Salvini, the head of a rising far-right party in Italy, has some big problems. They mirror those in many other countries, where the center-right and far-right are diverging, according to David Broder, an expert on contemporary Italian fascism.

First, Salvini is soft on Russia, which is close to China. An influential Italian veto that leans toward China or Russia in the European Union or NATO, and that buttresses that of Hungarys Victor Orban and Turkeys Recep Tayyip Erdogan, could weaken Western defenses against the worlds worst dictators.

We saw the risk, for example, when Turkey threatened to veto Sweden and Finlands accession to NATO. (Turkey eventually withdrew the objection.)

Second, Salvinis coalition acted against EU integration and belt-tightening reforms in Italy, just when they could be required for Brussels to release a total of 200 billion euros of COVID-19 recovery funds. Italy needs the money, and the European Union needs the cohesion.

The centrist Mario Draghi government that attempted to push through the necessary tightening came crashing down on July 21 when it failed due to the obstructionism of Salvinis League (Lega) party, along with Silvio Berlusconis center-right Forza Italia.

Both parties were minority partners in Draghis centrist government, along with Giuseppe Contes populist and anti-establishmentarian Five Star Movement. Draghi himself is center-left.

Italys Prime Minister Mario Draghi looks on during his address to the lower house of parliament ahead of a vote of confidence for the government after he tendered his resignation last week in the wake of a mutiny by a coalition partner, in Rome, on July 21, 2022. (Remo Casilli/Reuters)

Did Russia Destabilize Italy?

The Italian press is airing suspicions that the fall of Draghi was engineered by Moscow and supported by Lega and Forza Italia.

The suspicions could be baseless smears from the left. But last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin allegedly brought down another pro-Western governmentin Bulgaria.

We curbed corruption locally but found we had a bigger enemy: Russian influence, the former Bulgarian prime minister told The Sunday Times of London. We didnt understand that corruption and Russian influence in Bulgaria are the same thing. Corruption is Moscows best foreign policy instrument in the Balkans.

According to the left-leaning Project Syndicate, the Kremlin is known to meddle in Western democratic politics, from interfering in the 2016 Brexit referendum and US presidential election to financing Marine Le Pens far-right National Rally in France.

Could the same thing have happened in Italy?

Putins Friends in Rome

On Aug. 4, the Italian daily, La Stampa, reported a meeting between Salvinis Lega and Moscow. Intelligence documents leaked to the paper reportedly claimed that a senior Russian diplomat in Rome pressed Salvini, through a top adviser, about whether Lega would withdraw its support from Draghis ruling coalition. That was two months before Salvini followed that strategy, which resulted in the governments fall.

Northern Leagues leader Matteo Salvini smiles at his partys headquarters, where he was waiting for the outcome of a constitutional referendum in Milan, Italy, on Dec. 5, 2016. (Antonio Calanni/AP Photo)

Salvini has long been friendly toward Putin. He was photographed smiling and making a thumbs-up gesture in Red Square while wearing a t-shirt picturing Putins likeness. In 2018, Lega officials visited Moscow to seek funding.

A week after the invasion, Salvini reportedly had dinner with the Russian ambassador. He almost conducted a peace mission to Moscow, announced in May. The Russian Embassy in Rome paid for Salvinis flight to Moscow. This subsidized diplomacy caused public opposition to the trip, and Salvini backed down.

Salvini claims that his meetings with Russians were legitimate attempts to broker peace with Moscow. But he failed to tell his own prime minister about his mission to Moscow in advance. It could have undermined the negotiations of not only Italy, but all of NATO.

Berlusconis Forza Italia also reportedly met with a Russian Embassy official recently, including a phone call from Berlusconi himself. Berlusconi has for years had strong personal ties to Putin.

Moscows motive to destabilize Draghis government is apparent. Draghi is an Atlanticist supporter of the U.S.-led NATO alliance while being averse to Russia and China.

After the invasion of Ukraine, Draghi distanced Italy from Russia and strongly supported Ukraine, including militarily, financially, and politically. He encouraged sanctions against Russia and pushed for admitting Ukraine to the European Union.

But all of that came to an end on July 21.

In a speech shortly before he resigned, Draghi warned that his ministers appeared loyal to his coalition while subverting his policies. He said Italy should increase efforts to combat interference from Russia and other autocracies in our politics, in our society.

Lega promoted a taxi strike that put a new competition law in jeopardy. Italy has strained public finances, but the third party within Draghis government to oppose him, the Five Star Movement, lobbied for more public spending and social welfareexactly the opposite of what Brussels wanted.

The three parties who opposed Draghi were the Kremlins closest in Italy. They caused chaos and opposed the fiscal reforms that led to Draghis resignation.

Chinese Police, Russian Soldiers

The Russian and Chinese influence extends back to prior administrations. Since 2016, Beijing has sent approximately 10 Chinese police officers to Italy each year to conduct joint patrols with Italian police in cities like Rome, Milan, Prato, and Venice. The reason for the patrols is ostensibly to protect Chinese tourists.

A group of tourists sits on a gondola sailing on a canal of Venice on Jan. 19, 2018. (Andrea Pattaro/AFP/Getty Images)

During the pandemic, then Prime Minister Conte, of the Five Star Movement, invited 100 Russian medical personnel to operate within Italy. Members of the Lega supported it. The Russian assistance, however, turned out to be delivered by soldiers in military vehicles that fanned out across Italys Bergamo and Brescia regions.

Unnamed sources told La Stampa that the aid was 80 percent useless. But it presented Moscow with a cornucopia of propaganda and intelligence-gathering opportunities. For example, the Russians operated just 30 miles from a U.S. military base.

Moscow called the deployment From Russia With Love.

Italys Post-Fascist Fratelli dItalia

The Lega and Forza Italia are teaming with the far-right Brothers of Italy (Fratelli dItalia), led by Giorgia Meloni. The latest polls indicate that Fratelli dItalia, which has its own links to Moscow, has risen to 22.5 percent of votes in the Sept. 25 electionmore than any other party.

The opposing left coalition fell apart on Aug. 7, which could mean a landslide for the right and their control of two-thirds of both houses of parliament.

Thus, Meloni has a good chance of forming the ruling coalition and leading the government as Italys first female head of state.

Head of Fratelli dItalia (Brothers of Italy) party, Giorgia Meloni, waves from the stage during a united rally of the League (Lega) party, the Brothers of Italy party, and the Forza Italia (FI) party for a protest against the government in Piazza del Popolo in Rome, Italy, on July 4, 2020. (Tiziana Fabi/AFP via Getty Images)

The Fratelli dItalia is a mix of far-right and center politics. Its members tend to support business, conservative family values, and a constitutional amendment that would centralize power in a president rather than the rapidly shifting alliances of Italys parliamentary system. Fratelli dItalia is against high taxes and illegal immigration.

Meloni has described her party as center-right. She attempts to appear Atlanticist in her foreign policysupporting the European Union and NATO, and trying to appear to advocate tough measures against Putin for his war in Ukraine. Meloni has also stood up for Taiwan.

But Federico Fubini, writing in the lefts Project Syndicate, is dubious. Meloni opposed sanctions on Russia in 2018, and earlier this spring, she argued not just that Italy should receive compensation from the EU for the cost of sanctions, but also that the United States should not expect Italy to serve as the workhorse of the West by reducing its exports to Russia.

While none of her policies are explicitly fascist, the center-left media typically accentuates Fratellis fascist trappings and roots, which they call neo-fascist.

According to the Financial Times, Although established only a decade ago, Brothers of Italy is a descendent of the Italian Social Movement, the neo-fascist party founded after the second world war by associates of Benito Mussolini.

Foreign Policy notes that Brothers of Italy was an offshoot of the National Alliance, born from the ashes of the Italian Social Movement. Berlusconi was the first prime minister to bring the National Alliance into his governing coalition.

Broder, writing in The New York Times about the Brothers of Italy, noted that a recent documentary includes allegations of money laundering, illicit campaign financing and ties to neo-Nazis in the partys organization in Milan. The film exposed the close collaboration of the leader of Brothers of Italys group in the European Parliament with Roberto Jonghi Lavarini, a neo-fascist militant known as the black baron.'

The party reportedly describes itself as post-fascist and uses some symbolism of Mussolinis defeated lieutenants. In a country where fascism is illegal, Meloni refused to condemn Mussolini. She maintains friendly relations with Orban and Spains far-right party, Vox. The latter is campaigning against bans on Franco-era symbols, against federalism, and for a return to the centralist form of government that existed during the dictatorship.

In Italy, the drift toward fascist symbology and links to Moscow are making some uncomfortable with the far right.

Former Miss Italy contestant Mara Carfagna, who was an Italian cabinet minister under Draghi and prominent face of Forza Italia, resigned from her party and joined the centrist Azione party. She said she wanted to be certain of being in a party where no one will dream of plotting with Russia or China to the detriment of the current government.

Putin Weaponizes Refugees

Carfagna believes that geopolitics is behind the fall of Draghi. One issue that makes the left unpopular is the rise of illegal immigration.

Reportedly, Russian mercenaries allied with a Libyan general to encourage illegal immigration to Italy under the veil of political asylum. Since the far-right parties in Italy are both pro-Putin and anti-migrant, Putin could increase his support in Italy by encouraging illegal immigration, according to The Telegraph.

In July, the number of immigrants increased to approximately 11,000 from 7,000 in the same period of 2020.

According to Project Syndicate, Belarus deployed the same strategy against Poland and Lithuania last year, almost certainly with Putins acquiescence.

Investigate Russian Influence

Two of Italys former prime ministers have called for an urgent probe into Salvinis ties to Russia. The intelligence committee of the Italian parliament would be the optimal place for an investigation. But officials on the right, who would likely serve in the next government, have already indicated that they would not investigate.

So Brussels should go ahead with its own investigation. No party is above the law when it comes to foreign influence.

The European Unions Special Committee on Foreign Interference is supposed to ensure the integrity of elections. Now is the time to put that principle into action. Democracy is only democratic when elections are free of foreign influence and reliably reflect the will of the people.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
A Drug Enforcement Administration chemist checks confiscated powder containing fentanyl at the DEA Northeast Regional Laboratory in New York on Oct. 8, 2019. (Don Emmert/AFP via Getty Images)

San Diego Man Arrested in Connection With Two 2018 Fentanyl-Related Deaths

SAN DIEGOA San Diego man suspected of supplying two Riverside County residents with lethal doses of fentanyl was arrested this week on suspicion of murder.

Christopher Michael Koppa, 36, was arrested Aug. 8 and booked into a Riverside County jail in connection with the 2018 deaths of two men who died a few weeks apart, according to the Riverside County Sheriffs Department.

Koppa, who was on probation for several narcotic offenses at the time of his arrest, was in custody on $1 million bail, according to Riverside County jail records.

The first death occurred on the night of Aug. 25, 2018, in the 22000 block of Hoofbeat Way in Canyon Lake, where deputies found 30-year-old Devahn Reed deceased, according to the sheriffs department.

The second alleged fentanyl-related death happened on Sept. 11, 2018, when 34-year-old Patrick Schwab was found dead in the 31000 block of Cedarhill Lane in Lake Elsinore.

The specific circumstances behind each fatality, and how the men acquired the fentanyl, allegedly from the suspect, were not disclosed.
San Francisco Judge Strikes Down Law That Let Non-Citizens Vote in School Board Elections

A judge in California recently overturned a law that allowed non-citizen parents to vote in school board elections in San Francisco, saying it violates the constitution and statutes of the state.

The move was similar to a separate ruling in late June by a judge in New York, who struck down a law that would have allowed over 800,000 non-citizens to vote in local elections.

San Francisco Superior Court Judge Richard Ulmer Jr. said in his ruling (pdf), filed on July 29, that the California Constitution only allows citizens to vote.

A United States citizen 18 years of age and resident in this State may vote. Transcendent law of California, the constitution  reserves the vote to a United States citizen, contrary to [the] San Francisco ordinance, Ulmer wrote.

The lawsuit concerns a charter amendment known as Proposition N (pdf) that was approved by San Francisco voters in 2016 on a ballot measure. It was the first such ordinance of its kind in the state.

The ballot measure asked whether the city would allow a non-citizen resident of San Francisco who is of legal voting age and the parent, legal guardian or legally recognized caregiver of a child living in the San Francisco Unified School District to vote for members of the Board of Education.

The ordinance went into effect in January 2017, letting non-citizen parents vote for school board candidates as long as the parents were of legal voting age and were not in prison or on parole for a felony conviction, regardless of whether they were legal residents, such as green card holders and work visa holders, or illegal immigrants.

Under the charter amendment, the San Francisco Board of Supervisors was also given the authority to decide later whether the non-citizens could continue to vote in Board of Education elections, instead of requiring another subsequent ballot measure to reintroduce the measure when it expires in 2022. In November 2021, the board of supervisors decided to extend the measure indefinitely to allow non-citizens to vote beyond 2022.

California attorney James Lacy filed the lawsuit in March 2022 alongside associated conservative organizations, the United States Justice Foundation and the California Public Policy Foundation, against the city and county of San Francisco to challenge the ordinance.

In the complaint, (pdf) Lacy argued that San Francisco residents have an undeniable interest in ensuring that their elections are conducted in accordance with controlling state law largely because state taxpayers are funding school districts.

When [San Francisco Unified School District] spends taxpayer funds, it is not spending local taxpayer funds; it is spending state taxpayer funds. In this regard, everyone in the state has an interest in SFUSDs expenditures, the complaint reads. From that interest, everyone in the state also has an interest in ensuring that SFUSDs governing board is elected in accordance with state law.

The judge ruled in favor of Lacy on July 29, writing that the ordinance is contrary to the California Constitution and state statutes and thus cannot stand.

Ulmer also issued a permanent injunction that bars the city from implementing the ordinance in future elections.

Lacy said in a statement that Ulmers ruling was a verdict in favor of election integrity in California.

[T]his is an important case that reaffirms the core Constitutional notion that voting is a privilege of citizenship and that right cannot be diluted by allowing for noncitizen voting, he said in a statement, reported KABC.

Jen Kwart, spokesperson for City Attorney of San Francisco David Chiu, said that the ruling is disappointing, reported the San Francisco Chronicle.

We believe that allowing noncitizen parents to vote in school board elections is not only legally permissible, but strongly beneficial to our communities, Kwart said in a statement.

It is unclear whether the city would appeal to have the ordinance reinstated.
Sheriffs Deputy and Woman Killed in Colorado Home Shooting

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.A woman and a sheriffs deputy were fatally shot at a home in southern Colorado over the weekend and the suspected gunman was later found dead inside the home, authorities said Monday.

El Paso County Sheriffs Deputy Andrew Peery, 39, was wounded Sunday after he arrived with two other law enforcement officers to investigate a report of a shooting at the home in the community of Security-Widefield near Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs police said in a statement. John Paz, 33, fired at the officers, hitting Peery, and another sheriffs deputy returned fire, police said.

Officers found the body of the woman in the homes front yard, police said. Paz died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said.

Colorado Springs police, which is investigating the shooting, believe Paz also killed the woman. Her connection to Paz was still being investigated, spokesperson Jason Newton said.

Paz worked at the U.S. Air Force Academys airfield in the 94th Flying Training Squadron, which conducts glider training for cadets. He had been an aviation resource management technician there since December, school spokesperson Dean J. Miller said.

Our condolences go out to all the friends and family affected by Sundays incident, Miller said.

People lined up on Sunday to honor Peery as a hearse carrying his remains drove from a hospital to the coroners office.

Gov. Jared Polis also expressed sympathy to the family of Peery, who was a decorated member of the sheriffs departments SWAT team.

My thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of Deputy Peery and all our neighbors in law enforcement who put their lives at risk to serve others, he said.

By Colleen Slevin
South Korean elementary school students wear masks as a precaution against the Middle East Respiratory Syndrom virus at an elementary school in Busan, South Korea, on June 9, 2015. (Cha Geun-ho/Yonhap via AP)

South Koreas Education Minister Steps Down Amid Uproar Over Plan to Lower School Entry Age

South Koreas education minister tendered her resignation on Monday following a backlash against proposed changes to school policy, which included lowering the admission age for elementary school.

Education Minister Park Soon-ae resigned after 34 days in office, just two weeks after the ministry said it would lower the elementary school entry age to 5 years old by 2025 upon social consensus.

My latest policies were all for the benefit of our countrys citizens, Park said at a press briefing, The Korea Times reported. But clearly I fell short of expectations.

Park was criticized for announcing the proposed policy without seeking public opinion. The public was also opposed to her plan to abolish foreign language high schools.

The plan to lower the elementary school entry age was aimed at increasing the workforce in South Koreawhich is facing a declining birth rateas it would enable students to graduate and embark on their careers earlier.

However, teachers and parents have come out against the move over concerns that it will push intellectually unprepared children to attend school.

The proposed policy led 36 civic groups to rally in front of the presidential office, demanding that it be scrapped. They also launched an online petition to gather public signatures in favor of the policy withdrawal.

One of the civic groups argued that requiring 5-year-olds to attend elementary school is inappropriate following the degree of cognitive and emotional development of young children.

It could also have negative side effects, such as advancing the starting age for competition for college entrance and private education, the group said.

Ministry Hints at Policy Withdrawal

Vice Education Minister Jang Sang-yoon said Tuesday that the plan to lower the elementary school starting age may be scrapped as it has become realistically difficult to push ahead with it given its unpopularity among the public.

Its hard to say right now at this place that we are going to scrap it and will no longer push for it. But weve determined that it has become realistically difficult to push ahead with it, Jang said.

This extra year of early childhood education is part of policies put forward in the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which encourage countries to offer children at least one year of free and compulsory quality pre-primary education.

In June, the Australian states of Victoria and New South Wales implemented an extra year of play-based learning for young children as part of what the state premiers have called the greatest transformation of early education in a generation.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and his New South Wales counterpart Dominic Perrottet announced the long-term policy commitment in a joint statement, saying that the move would benefit many working families.
The Flash Star Ezra Miller Faces Felony Burglary Charge in Vermont

Ezra Miller, the actor who plays the superhero the Flash in the DC Extended Universe film franchise, has been charged with felony burglary in Vermont.

On May 1, Vermont State Police received a burglary complaint at a residence on County Road in the town of Stamford in Bennington County.

The initial findings indicated that several bottles of alcohol were taken from within the residence while the homeowners were not present. As a result of an investigation that included surveillance videos and statements, probable cause was found to charge Ezra M. Miller with the offense of felony burglary into an unoccupied dwelling, according to a state police news release.

Officers eventually found Miller on Aug. 7 and issued a citation to appear at Vermont Superior Court Bennington Criminal Division on Sept. 26 for arraignment on the charge of burglary.

The affidavit of probable cause will be filed at the court and will be made public after Millers arraignment. The state police are coordinating with the Bennington County States Attorneys Office on the investigation.

The felony charge is the latest in a series of legal challenges the 29-year-old actor has been facing in recent months. Earlier this year, Miller was arrested twice in Hawaii.

In the first incident, Miller faced harassment and disorderly conduct charges for his actions in a karaoke bar. In the second incident, Miller was arrested for hitting a woman on her forehead after being asked to leave a get-together.

Miller was also accused of grooming a minor by the parents of an 18-year-old Native American activist. The parents claim that Miller has been grooming their daughter, Takota Iron Eyes, since she was 12. Iron Eyes has denied these charges and said Miller never abused her, Insider reported.

The Flash star is also said to be housing a 25-year-old mother and her three kids at his ranch in Stamford, Vermont, where he allegedly keeps firearms and cannabis. The children are all under 5 years old.

Though the childrens father says he is worried about the living arrangement, the mother insists that Miller allowed her to escape from a violent and abusing ex, helping her find a safe environment for her kids, according to Rolling Stone.

The Flash Movie

The felony charge comes as Warner Bros. is scheduled to release the $100 million The Flash movie in less than a year. The movie is part of the DC Extended Universe film franchise.

Warner Bros. Discoverys CEO David Zaslav recently praised the movie during an earnings call.

We have seen The Flash, Black Adam, and Shazam 2. We are very excited about them, Zaslav said during the call. We think they are terrific, and we think we can make them even better.

The controversy surrounding the movies lead star has put the company in a tough spot. Warner Bros. did not comment when Miller was arrested for disorderly conduct, harassment, and assault earlier in 2022.

However, there are reports that the company does not want Miller to be part of future DC ventures after The Flash is released in June 2023.
Tony Philiou hands an order to a drive-through customer at his McDonald's in Mayfield Heights, Ohio, on Aug. 8, 2022. (Roger Mastroianni for The Epoch Times)

Top Boss: Former McDonalds Crew Member Pays His Staff During Three Month Closure for Renovations

The thought of closing his McDonalds restaurant for needed renovations worried owner Tony Philiou.

There was, of course, the loss of three months of revenue to consider. More troubling, though, was the absence of income for his 85 employees.

Then one night, Philiou woke at 2:30 a.m. with a sudden realization.

Ive got to pay everybody through the process! he said, sitting up in bed.

Philiou knew what it was like to count on a paycheck working in fast food. Hed started at the store 60 years earlier slicing cheese for 90 cents an hour.

Owner Tony Philiou outside his Mayfield Heights, Ohio, Mcdonalds on Aug. 8, 2022. (Roger Mastroianni for The Epoch Times)

Ive been in their shoes, the 90-year-old owner of the eatery in Mayfield Heights, Ohio, told The Epoch Times.

To not know how they could pay their bills without a check, and apply for unemployment, particularly for young kids, it was going to be a horrendous process.

So instead of delivering heartbreaking news to his team of faithful employees, he announced they would all stay on the payroll during the closure.

Even those who permanently moved out of state during their time off received checks for the entire time.

Needless to say, there was a lot of joy when they heard that nobody was going to lose a penny, Philiou said.

The restaurant closed on March 29 for a complete remodel.

On July 6, the newly updated space was unveiled, featuring upgrades of the latest of everything that is the best of the best, Philiou says proudly.

They are updates that were looking forward to using for a long time.

As for the cost of the remodel, Philiou declined to discuss numbers.

But I feel optimistic, he said. Were going to sell a lot of cheeseburgers to pay for it.

Tony Philiou stands near cooking hamburgers during the early days of his six-decade career with the McDonalds. He now owns the restaurant. (Courtesy of Tony Philiou)

Philiou began as a part-timer at the restaurant in 1962. After five years of working two jobs, he signed on full-time at McDonalds and began moving up the ranks in management.

Years later, he bought the store. This year he celebrated his 60th anniversary of working for the company.

Employees enjoy using the gleaming new kitchen equipment and technological upgrades for ordering, he said. But more than that, the investment in their workplace has given them a sense of security in their jobs, he added.

Philiou says he prioritizes the interests of those who work for him because a businessperson cant succeed without employees.

But his thoughtfulness seems to be much more than a calculated business strategy. Philiou has developed a reputation for being unusually generous and kind.

In 2014, he awarded a 37-year veteran of his team with an all-expenses-paid cruise vacation.

But even newer employees received the special blessing this time.

Chantee McMillan, a full-time college student who has worked for the restaurant for three years, said she was incredibly grateful for her boss generosity.

The restaurant closed just as she was preparing to begin semester finals. Not worrying about having to find another job while studying for exams brought tremendous relief.

Although she was stunned to hear of his extraordinary gesture for the whole crew, she wasnt entirely surprised. Knowing his reputation, she had figured he would help them in some way.

I thought he would maybe let us go to another one of the stores and work there for a little, while ours was being rebuilt. But I did not know that he was going to just say, You guys can be at home, and Ill take care of it.

He tells us all the time that he knows how we feel. He knew that people would be worried about where the next meal would come from because we were closed.

He is absolutely amazing to work for, McMillan said. He cares about us. If he can even tell somethings wrong, he has a conversation with us, and you know, makes sure everythings OK.

McDonalds owner Tony Philiou delivers food at the drive-through window on Aug. 8, 2022. (Roger Mastroianni for The Epoch Times)

Philiou said he loves to employ high-school students. He aims to give them opportunities to develop valuable career and life skills they might not learn elsewhere.

These jobs impact the students lives in ways that make positive changes for the entire community, he says.

I figure, the more I can do for the school district, the stronger it will be. And if you have a good school district, you have a good community.

Philiou treasures evidence of the impact his management style makes.

He shared a 10-paragraph letter he received from a former employee, Alex, who worked for him about 30 years ago when in high school.

In the letter, Alex describes how, as a 14-year-old Russian immigrant being raised by a single mom, his work at Philious establishment gave him more than just a paycheck.

I was making people happy while getting an education, Alex wrote in the letter to his old boss.

He praised Philious example of leadership, having high standards and expectations in everything, but being willing to lead by example and do dirty or arduous jobs himself.

I also remember that you were always well-dressed, Alex wrote. But that never stopped you from picking up trash, tending the fryers, showing someone how to sweep, or doing any of the work. It was clear every detail was important to you, and that permeated down.

He ended the letter by thanking Philiou for setting him up for success.

I know you moved here from another country and achieved success by working hard, Philious protege wrote. Thank you for helping me to do the same.

Philiou immigrated to the United States from Greece in 1947 at 15. And when the United States fought in the Korean War, he told himself, This country has done a tremendous amount of good things for me and my family.

So I decided to enlist in the Army and do what needed to be done, he said.

After that, he briefly returned to Greece to marry his wife. Theyre now celebrating 68 years of marriage.

Greek immigrants Tony and Effie Philiou, owners of the McDonalds in Mayfield Heights, Ohio, have been married for 68 years. (Courtesy of Tony Philiou)

Back in the United States as a newly married man, he worked at the TRW valve division factory, and took on an additional job at the new McDonalds near his home, eventually purchasing it.

Ive managed to have the American dream, and Im thankful for this country, and Im thankful for what it has provided for me, Philiou says in his brisk Greek accent.

Im also thankful for McDonalds. After a while, I realized that I belong there.

Though he doesnt oversee all day-to-day operations, Philiou remains active at his restaurant daily when hes in town.

Im 90, and I dont feel it, he said. I do have some limitations. But I manage to be productive. If I spend two, three, or four hours there, I make sure that when I leave, Ive accomplished something.

He methodically maintains a daily routine. First, he circles the restaurant in his car, inspecting the outside of the building.

Then he strides into the building, greeting customers and employees and looking for jobs that need handling.

I continue to be involved in any way they need me to be involved.

Even on trips to his second home in Florida, his employees and beloved store remain on his mind. And, he admits, he lets them know, calling to check in two, three, four times a day.
Gen. Wayne Eyre, Chief of the Defence Staff, speaks during a military announcement at CFB Trenton in Trenton, Ont., on June 20, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Lars Hagberg)

Top Commander Defends Militarys Vaccine Requirement, Says Tweak in the Works

Canadas top military commander says he plans to tweak the Armed Forces vaccine requirement in the next few weeks.

But defence chief Gen. Wayne Eyre is also defending the use of mandates, describing them as necessary to ensure the military is ready to respond to any emergency.

Eyre made the comments in an interview with The Canadian Press as hundreds of service members remain unvaccinated despite orders to get the shot late last year.

The order is still in place even though a similar mandate for most other federal public servants was suspended in June.

Eyre says the military is different from other federal departments and agencies because of the way it operates and its importance as what he called Canadas insurance policy.

As for the planned changes, Eyre says finding the right approach is complicated as officials consider the legal, medical, operational and ethical aspects of a revised mandate.
Trump Critics Say FBI Mar-a-Lago Raid May Have Handed Him GOP Nomination, Potentially the Presidency

The FBIs raid of the former president Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate handed the 2024 Republican presidential nomination to Trump and prompted moderate Republicans to vote for him, according to Joe Walsh, a former Republican congressman and a critic of Trump.

Trump announced that his Florida property was under siege and occupied by a group of FBI agents in a statement late on Aug. 8, calling it evidence of prosecutorial misconduct and a weaponization of the Justice System.

The raid was not announced and was motivated because Democrats do not want Trump to run again for president in 2024, the former president said.

Walsh, who applauded the FBIs raid on Twitter, said the move angered many GOP voters and pushed them to campaign and vote for Trump.

Ive heard from so many GOP voters tonight who were cooling a bit these past few months on Trump but who are so pissed off about this raid and are back to completely & enthusiastically all in with their support for him, Walsh later wrote in an Aug. 8 post.

Handed Trump the Nomination

In another post, Walsh said the FBIs move handed the GOP nomination to Trump.

Both things are true: 1. The Justice Departments job is to pursue justice & uphold the rule of law. And they should NEVER let politics get in the way of that. Yesterday, they did their job. 2. What happened yesterday handed the 2024 GOP nomination to Donald Trump, he said on Twitter.

Trump hasnt formally announced his presidential bid despite growing confirmation that he will run for the White House again in 2024. On Aug. 7, Trump hinted again about his potential 2024 presidential bid but stopped short of announcing a run.

On Aug. 8, FBI agents raided the resort.

Supporters of former President Donald Trump stand outside his residence in Mar-A-Lago, Palm Beach, Florida on Aug. 8, 2022. (Giorgio Viera/AFP via Getty Images)

Eric Trump, one of Trumps sons, said the raid was conducted to see whether his father possessed any documents from his time in office, adding that the former president has been cooperating with the National Archives on the matter for months.

The purpose for the raid, from what they said, was because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession, Eric Trump said on Fox News.

However, Walsh said if the FBIs raid is just about 15 boxes of classified material Trump took down to Mar-a-Lago, this will absolutely enrage his supporters and only strengthen Trump within the GOP. He added the former president is definitely announcing hes running in early Sept.

Several other critics of Trump also expressed the same viewpoint.

Former Democratic New York City mayoral candidate and presidential candidate Andrew Yang, who recently formed a new political party, said while he hopes Trump as far away from the White House as possible, the FBIs raid strengthens that case for millions of Americans who will see this as unjust persecution.

Alyssa Farah Griffin, former White House communications director who is now extraordinarily critical of Trump, said on CNNs New Day that she hopes the raid goes beyond simply not complying with some archiving laws.

Otherwise, the DOJ just handed Donald Trump the Republican nominee and potentially the presidency, Griffin, also CNNs political commentator, said on Tuesday. If its seen as some sort of massive overreach and not something incredibly serious, this is a very good day for Donald Trump.

The FBI has declined to comment on the raid. The Department of Justice has not returned an inquiry. A White House official told The Epoch Times in an email it was not notified of the raid before it took place.

Zachary Stieber contributed to the report.
(RL) Barron Trump, -then-First Lady Melania Trump, then-President Donald Trump, Tiffany Trump, Donald Trump Jr., Kimberly Guilfoyle, Lara Trump, Eric Trump, Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, and Michael Boulos stand after the president delivered his acceptance speech for the Republican Party nomination for reelection during the final day of the Republican National Convention at the South Lawn of the White House on Aug. 27, 2020. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Trump Family Reacts to FBI Raid of Trumps Mar-a-Lago

Family members of former President Donald Trump have reacted to the FBI raiding his Mar-a-Lago home and accused the federal law enforcement agency of being politically motivated.

Donald Trump Jr., the eldest child of the former president, wrote on Twitter that the Biden administration is out of control, [Department of Justice] is ripping this country apart with how theyre openly targeting their political enemies. This is what you see happen in 3rd World Banana Republics!!!

Eric Trump, his second-oldest son, also went to social media after Trump released a statement on the FBI raid: We truly live in a third-world country.

They are terrified. Hes going to announce any day that hes running for president in 2024, Lara Trump told Fox News on Monday evening. This is a very convenient way to just throw a little more mud on Donald Trump as though they havent already done enough.

The former commander-in-chief on Monday evening confirmed on Truth Social that the Florida residence was targeted by the FBI. Its not clear why, and the bureau has not issued a public comment on the matter.

During the Fox News interview, Lara Trump suggested her father-in-law believes the search was related to presidential records that the former president allegedly brought back with him to Florida after he left office last year. Under the Presidential Records Act, administrations are required to preserve some documents.

Look, my father-in-law, as anybody knows whos been around him a lot, loves to save things like newspaper clippings, magazine clippings, photographs, documents that he had every authority  to take from the White House, Lara Trump remarked. Hes been cooperating every single step of the way with the people that have questioned any of this.

David Ferriero, the archivist of the United States, wrote to Congress earlier this year saying that it asked Trump to continue looking for other presidential documents.

Statement

Trump himself described the raid as dark times for the United States as his Mar-a-Lago residence is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents.

A police car outside former President Donald Trumps residence in Mar-a-Lago, Palm Beach, Fla., on Aug. 8, 2022. (Giorgio Viera/AFP via Getty Images)

Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before. After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate. It is prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want me to run for President in 2024, he said.

Trump framed the move as a political persecutionone that he said has been going on for several years now.

The political persecution of President Donald J. Trump has been going on for years, with the now fully debunked Russia, Russia, Russia Scam, Impeachment Hoax #1, Impeachment Hoax #2, and so much more, it just never ends. It is political targeting at the highest level! he wrote.

The raid comes just a few months before the 2022 midterm elections. The former president has endorsed a number of candidates who are currently running for office in swing states.

The Epoch Times has contacted the FBI and Department of Justice for comment.
Former President Donald Trump attends a rally in support of Arizona GOP candidates, in Prescott Valley, Ariz., on July 22, 2022. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Trump: FBI Has Raided Mar-a-Lago, Property Under Siege

Former President Donald Trump said on late Aug. 8 that his Florida Mar-a-Lago home was under siege and occupied by a group of FBI agents.

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, Trump said.

The FBI declined to comment on a press inquiry from The Epoch Times. Its parent agency, the Department of Justice (DOJ), did not respond to a request for comment.

Eric Trump, one of Trumps sons, said the raid was conducted to see whether his father possessed any documents from his time in office, adding that the former president has been cooperating with the National Archives on the matter for months.

The purpose for the raid, from what they said, was because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession, Eric Trump said on Fox News.

The unprecedented action marks a significant escalation in a records investigation concerning the former president, who is also reportedly facing other Justice Department probes connected to his time before, during, and after holding office. The raid also comes at a time when the former president is gearing up for a widely expected run for president in 2024.

Trumps lawyer Christina Bobb told CNN on Monday night that the FBI seized documents from Mar-a-Lago.

President Trump and his legal team have been cooperative with FBI and DOJ officials every step of the way. The FBI did conduct an unannounced raid and seized paper, Bobb said.

A police car outside former President Donald Trumps residence in Mar-a-Lago, Palm Beach, Fla., on Aug. 8, 2022. (Giorgio Viera/AFP via Getty Images)

Alleged Missing Records

In February, Archivist David Ferriero told U.S. House lawmakers that the National Archives and Records Administration had been in communication with Trump throughout 2021 about the return of 15 boxes of records. He eventually returned them in January 2022.

At the time, the National Archives was still conducting an inventory, but noted some of the boxes contained items marked as classified national security information.

Trump previously confirmed that he had agreed to return certain records to the Archives, calling it an ordinary and routine process. He also said the Archives did not find anything.

A federal law called the U.S. Presidential Records Act requires the preservation of memos, letters, notes, emails, faxes, and other written communications related to a presidents official duties.

Any search of a private residence would have to be approved by a judge, after the investigating law-enforcement agency demonstrated probable cause that a search was justified.

Third-World Marxist Dictatorship

Trump called the raid prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately dont want [him] to run for President in 2024, especially based on recent polls, adding that Democrats will likewise do anything to stop Republicans and Conservatives in the upcoming Midterm Elections.

Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before, Trump said.

The former president added: Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries. Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before.

Outcry from Republicans

Republican lawmakers were swift to condemn the raid, accusing Democrats of weaponizing the federal bureaucracy to attack the former president.

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) called such a move dangerous.

Todays raid on the former Presidents home in the middle of an election season looks like another egregious & unprecedented abuse of power, the lawmaker said in a statement to The Epoch Times that was later posted on Twitter.

We will restore order & accountability as soon as we regain the gavels for a Republican majority in November. It cant happen soon enough! the congressman added.

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) likened the raid to what occurs in socialist dictatorships.

Using government power to persecute political opponents is something we have seen many times from 3rd world Marxist dictatorships, Rubio said on Twitter late Monday. But never before in America.

After today[]s raid on Mar A Lago what do you think the left plans to use those 87,000 new IRS agents for?

The FBI isnt doing anything about the groups vandalizing Catholic Churches, firebombing Pro-Life groups or threatening Supreme Court justices. But they find time to raid Mar A Lago, Rubio said.

Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) said: The inconsistent and partisan application of the law by the FBI has gone too far. The Democrats, for too long, have used our government agencies from the FBI to the IRS to target their political opponents. This inconceivable raid is an attack on our Republic.

Democrats, meanwhile, have defended the raid. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) told NBC on Aug. 9, No person is above the law.

The White House said on Aug. 9 that it was not informed ahead of time of the FBI raid.

Reuters contributed to this report.

This article was updated to include more information on the raid and the White Houses response.
The Twitter application is seen on a digital device in San Diego, on April 25, 2022. (Gregory Bull/AP Photo)

Twitter Breach Exposed Anonymous Account Owners

A vulnerability in Twitters software that exposed an undetermined number of owners of anonymous accounts to potential identity compromise last year was apparently exploited by a malicious actor, the social media company said Friday.

It did not confirm a report that data on 5.4 million users was offered for sale online as a result but said users worldwide were affected.

The breach is especially worrisome because many Twitter account owners, including human rights activists, do not disclose their identities in their profiles for security reasons that include fear of persecution by repressive authorities.

This is very bad for many who use pseudonymous Twitter accounts, U.S. Naval Academy data security expert Jeff Kosseff tweeted.

The vulnerability allowed someone to determine during log-in whether a particular phone number or email address was tied to an existing Twitter account, thereby revealing account owners, the company said.

Twitter said it did not know how many users may have been affected, and stressed that no passwords were exposed.

We can confirm the impact was global, a Twitter spokesperson said via email. We cannot determine exactly how many accounts were impacted or the location of the account holders.

Twitters acknowledgment in a blog post Friday followed a report last month by the digital privacy advocacy group Restore Privacy detailing how data presumably obtained from the vulnerability was being sold on a popular hacking forum for $30,000.

A security researcher discovered the flaw in January, informed Twitter and was paid a reported $5,000 bounty. Twitter said the bug, introduced in a June 2021 software update, was immediately fixed.

Twitter said it learned about the data sale on the hacking forum from media reports and confirmed that a bad actor had taken advantage of the issue before it was addressed.

It said it was directly notifying all account owners that it can confirm were affected.

We are publishing this update because we arent able to confirm every account that was potentially impacted, and are particularly mindful of people with pseudonymous accounts who can be targeted by state or other actors, the company said.

It recommended users seeking to keep their identities veiled not add a publicly known phone number or email address to their Twitter account.

If you operate a pseudonymous Twitter account, we understand the risks an incident like this can introduce and deeply regret that this happened, it said.

The revelation of the breach comes while Twitter is in a legal battle with Tesla CEO Elon Musk over his attempt to back out from his previous offer to buy San Francisco-based Twitter for $44 billion.

By Frank Bajak
The Liberia-flagged bulk carrier Arizona in the sea port of Pivdennyi near the town of Yuzhne, Ukraine, on Aug. 8, 2022. (Press service of the Ministry of the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority/Handout via Reuters)

Two More Grain Ships Sail From Ukraine as Third Port Opens

ISTANBULTwo more ships, carrying corn and soybeans, departed from Ukrainian Black Sea ports on Monday, Turkey and Ukraine said, taking the total to ten since the first ship sailed last week under a deal with Russia to unblock Ukrainian grain exports.

The United Nations and Turkey brokered the agreement last month after warnings the halt in grain shipments caused by Russias invasion of Ukraine could lead to severe food shortages and even outbreaks of famine in parts of the world.

The Sacura, which departed from Pivdennyi, is carrying 11,000 tonnes of soybeans to Italy, Turkeys defense ministry said on Monday, while the Arizona, which left Chornomorsk, is carrying 48,458 tonnes of corn to Iskenderun in southern Turkey.

Separately, the Polarnet, which departed on Friday, reached its final destination in northwestern Turkeys Derince on Monday morning to be unloaded, marking the completion of the first shipment since the exports were re-launched.

So far, around 243,000 tonnes of corn has been exported from Ukraine on seven ships since the first departure on Aug. 1, according to a Reuters tally of data from Turkeys defense ministry.

The other ships carried 11,000 tonnes of soybeans, 6,000 tonnes of sunflower oil, and 45,000 tonnes of sunflower meal.

Ukraines infrastructure minister, Oleksandr Kubrakov, confirmed the two latest ships left on Monday, adding Pivdennyi, the third Ukrainian port included in the deal, was finally up and running as part of the initiative.

Kubrakov had said previously the opening of Pivdennyi would push Ukraines total export capacity up to three million tonnes a month.

In peacetime, Ukraine exported up to six million tonnes of grain a month from its ports on the Black Sea and Sea of Azov coast.

The four ships that left Ukraine on Sunday are expected to anchor near Istanbul on Monday evening, Turkeys defense ministry said, adding they would be inspected on Tuesday.

Before Russia invaded Ukraine for what it calls its special military operation, the two countries together accounted for nearly a third of global wheat exports.

The resumption of grain exports is being overseen by a Joint Coordination Centre (JCC) in Istanbul where Russian, Ukrainian, Turkish, and U.N. personnel are working.

The Razoni, which was the first ship to depart, was scheduled to arrive in Lebanon on Sunday but is currently at anchor off Turkeys southern coast, according to Refinitiv ship tracker data.

Ukraines Infrastructure Ministry said on Sunday the Fulmar S, the first foreign-flagged bulk ship to reach the Black Sea port of Chornomorsk since the conflict, was ready for loading.

A second ship traveling to Ukraine, the Osprey S, was inspected in Istanbul on Sunday and was nearing Ukraine on Monday morning, Refinitiv data also showed.
A serviceman with a Russian flag on his uniform stands guard near the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant outside the Russian-controlled city of Enerhodar in the Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine, on Aug. 4, 2022. (Alexander Ermochenko/Reuters)

Ukraine, Russia Trade Blame for Nuclear Plant Shelling

KYIVKyiv and Moscow traded blame on Monday for the weekend shelling of Ukraines Zaporizhzhia nuclear complex amid international alarm that their battle for control of the plant could trigger catastrophe.

Calling any attack on a nuclear plant suicidal, U.N. chief Antonio Guterres demanded U.N. nuclear inspectors be given access to Zaporizhzhia, the largest complex of its kind in Europe.

Russias invading forces seized the southern Ukrainian region containing Zaporizhzhia in March, when the site was struck without damage to its reactors. The area, including the city of Kherson, is now the target of a Ukrainian counter-offensive.

Ukraine appealed for the area around the complex to be demilitarized and for the International Atomic Energy Agency, the U.N.s nuclear watchdog, to be let in. Russia said it too favored an IAEA visit, which it accused Ukraine of blocking while trying to take Europe hostage by shelling the plant.

Ukraine blamed Russia for weekend attacks around the complex, which is still being run by Ukrainian technicians. It said three radiation sensors were damaged and two workers injured by shrapnel.

As of Monday morning, the plant appeared to still be running, said Petro Kotin, head of Ukraines state nuclear power company Energoatom. He said 500 Russian soldiers and 50 pieces of heavy machinery, including tanks, trucks and armoured infantry vehicles were at the site.

The Ukrainian staff at the plant had nowhere to shelter, he added.

Reuters could not independently verify either sides account.

Kotin called for peacekeepers to run the Zaporizhzhia site, flagging the risk of shells hitting its six containers of highly radioactive spent nuclear fuel. In an evening video shared online, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called for new Western sanctions on Russias nuclear industry for creating the threat of a nuclear disaster.

Dr Mark Wenman, a nuclear expert at Imperial College London, played down the risk of a major incident, saying the Zaporizhzhia reactors were relatively robust and the spent fuel well protected.

Although it may seem worrying, and any fighting on a nuclear site would be illegal the likelihood of a serious nuclear release is still small, he said in a statement.

Working Under Russian Guns

Yevhenii Tsymbaliuk, Ukraines ambassador to the IAEA, said Zaporizhzhia staff were working under the barrels of Russian guns.

Meanwhile, Russias defense ministry said Ukrainian attacks had damaged power lines servicing the plant and forced it to reduce output by two of its six reactors to prevent disruption.

Guterres said IAEA personnel needed access to create conditions for stabilization.

Any attack (on) a nuclear plant is a suicidal thing, he told a news conference in Japan, where he attended the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony on Saturday to commemorate the 77th anniversary of the worlds first atomic bombing.

The worlds worst civil nuclear disaster occurred in 1986 when a reactor at the Chornobyl complex in northwest Ukraine exploded. Soon after this years Feb. 24 invasion, Russian troops occupied that site, withdrawing in late March.

Ukraine has said it is planning to conduct a major counter-offensive around Kherson and that it has already retaken dozens of villages.

Its forces are also fighting to retake areas near Kharkiv in the north, where Russian forces launched artillery strikes on Monday, Ukraines general staff said.

In Ukraines Donetsk region, where pro-Moscow separatists seized territory after the Kremlin annexed Crimea to the south in 2014, Russia was using all available fire power  to try and inflict maximum losses on Ukrainian units to prevent them from reinforcing other areas, the general staff added.

Stepping up its fiscal aid and military spending on Ukraine, Washington announced it will send $4.5 billion in budgetary support and $1 billion in weapons, including long-range rocket munitions and armored medical transport vehicles. Overall, the United States has contributed more than $18 billion to Ukraine this year.

Russias foreign ministry meanwhile told the United States it was suspending inspection activities under their START nuclear arms control treaty, though it said Moscow remained committed to the treatys provisions.

Grain Exports Pick Up

Adding weight to a rare diplomatic success since the war began, a deal to unblock Ukraines food exports and ease global shortages gathered pace as two grain ships carrying almost 59,000 tonnes of corn and soybeans sailed out of Ukrainian Black Sea ports.

The July 22 grain export pact, brokered by Turkey and the United Nations, was further underpinned as the parties issued procedures for merchant ships carrying Ukrainian grain, including a 10-nautical-mile military exclusion zone, according to a document seen by Reuters.

Before the invasion, Russia and Ukraine together accounted for nearly a third of global wheat exports.

Russia says it is waging a special military operation in Ukraine to rid it of nationalists and protect Russian-speaking communities. Ukraine and the West describe Russias actions as an unprovoked war of aggression.
Unvaccinated Ontario Mayor Denied Access to Township Office Protests COVID-19 Vaccine Policies

An Ontario mayor is protesting against his municipalitys COVID-19 vaccine policies, which prevent him from entering his office and other municipal buildings due to his being unvaccinated.

On Aug. 8, Dave Bylsma was joined by supporters at the West Lincoln Community Centre, roughly 36 kilometres from St. Catharines, Ontario, in a protest against the vaccine policies that he said have prevented him from fulfilling his duty as mayor over the past eight months.

Bylsma was originally set to deliver a speech that day at the opening ceremony of the 13 For 13 Canada Summer Games hosted by the municipality. But because of the weather, the event was moved indoors to the community centre, where Bylsma said he was denied access.

He subsequently called on members of the community to join him at the community centre to protest the move. Roughly 400 people responded to the call in less than two hours, Bylsma told The Epoch Times.

Our vaccine policy in the municipality of West Lincoln prohibits anybody on staff who is not vaccinated from entering any of the municipal buildings. Im not allowed in my own office, I sign bylaws on the hood of my car, I am not allowed into council meetings in person, Bylsma said in a video posted on social media by Danielle Ideias.

The Epoch Times reached out to the West Lincoln Township office for comment, but didnt hear back by publication time.

Bylsma said he had discussed with the community centre staff about the ridiculousness that  I can attend [the event] as a citizen, but I cant fulfill my duties as mayor because I am unjabbed.

Enough is enough. Ive been embarrassed. Im not allowed into chambers. Ive been stripped of every responsibility thats not statutory, he said.

Im going to basically represent an opposition to our [vaccination status] here in the municipality, one thats  voted on, and well see where this goes, he said. I hope this ridiculous, inconsistent, unconstitutional injustice gets righted, maybe in small part due to our efforts here today.

Bylsma said the staff later invited him into the building, which he said was to bait me into violating the policy so an internal complaint could be filed against him, pointing to a similar incident that occurred to his colleague Councillor Harold Jonker.

Recently there was a ruling against Harold Jonker, Bylsma said. Myself excluded, but our council voted to accept the [integrity commissioner report] recommendation that he lose 30 days of his wage for participating in the Ottawa truck rally as a truck driver,  and theyre saying the premise is that youre a councillor 24/7.

Bylsma said that if the same logic was applied to his situation he would be considered mayor 24/7.

So I couldnt go in [to the community centre] as John Q. public figure, because I hold this [mayoral position] 24/7. Now I find that to be patently ridiculous.

Jonker said he got into big trouble after an integrity commissioners report announced that he had broken the code of conduct for his role in the truckers Freedom Convoy protest held in Ottawa earlier this year. Jonker said he led the Niagara convoy.

Im in the same boat as [Bylsma] is. I can go into our township building, as a public person, like as part of the public, but I cannot go into our chamber, he told The Epoch Times. And same with the arena. I can go in there as a public person, but I cant go in there as councillor because then I fall underneath their employee policy and that [vaccine policy] is still in place.

According to Jonker, West Lincolns vaccine policy was put in place by the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), when the Ontario government declared a provincial emergency on March 17, 2020, at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. After the gradual relaxation of the pandemic-related restrictions, the council decided to leave it in place following EOC recommendation.

Thats been the frustration for the mayor and for myself like we have to find minutes, we have to do stuff in the office, and we cant go in, he said.

The Freedom Convoy started as a demonstration against the federal governments mandatory COVID-19 vaccine mandate imposed on all cross-border truck drivers, which came into effect in January. The protest ended after the federal government invoked the Emergencies Act on Feb. 14 and police cleared the demonstration in an escalated operation over a few days.

On July 18, the West Lincoln council voted to penalize Jonker for his role in the Freedom Convoy. As a result, he has lost 30 days of remuneration. He was also required to provide a list of gifts and benefits he received during the protest, and to reimburse them.
Former US President Donald Trump's residence in Mar-A-Lago, Palm Beach, Fla., on Aug. 9, 2022. (Giorgio Viera/AFP via Getty Images)

US Judge in Florida Approved Search Warrant for FBI Raid on Trumps Resort: Lawyer

A federal judge approved the search warrant that FBI agents served on former President Donald Trumps resort in Florida, according to one of Trumps lawyers.

Christina Bobb, the lawyer, told The Epoch Times that documents agents showed to her during the raid listed U.S. Magistrate Judge Bruce Reinhart as the judge who signed off on the raid.

It was Bruce Reinhart, Bobb said.

Court docket entries show that Reinhart since Aug. 5 issued warrants in response to multiple requests, including a warrant for electronic communications suspected to be relevant to an ongoing criminal investigation.

Reinhart is one of three magistrate judges for the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of Floridas West Palm Beach location, which encompasses Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort.

FBI agents raided the resort on Aug. 8.

The warrant applications, the orders approving the applications, and other documents are under seal, meaning they are not available to the public.

Two other magistrate judges work out of the location. U.S. Magistrate Judge Ryon McCabe had no search warrant applications come before him on Aug. 5 or Aug. 8, the docket shows.

The other, U.S. Magistrate Judge William Matthewman, granted a search warrant on Aug. 8, according to the docket.

Records in that case are also sealed.

The FBI has declined to comment on the raid. The Department of Justice has not returned inquiries. A White House official told The Epoch Times in an email that the White House was not notified of the raid before it took place.

Involvement With Epstein

Reinhart was a senior prosecutor in the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Florida during the prosecution of late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Shortly after a non-prosecution agreement was reached with Epstein, who pleaded guilty to a single state-level charge in exchange for not being prosecuted by federal officials, Reinhart joined Epsteins payroll, according to documents entered by lawyers for women Epstein allegedly abused.

Reinhart, a criminal defense attorney at the time, represented numerous Epstein employees and pilots in civil cases filed against Epstein by alleged victims, including Epsteins housekeeper Louella Ruboyo and pilot Larry Morrison.

On information and belief, Reinharts representation of these individuals was paid, directly or indirectly, by Epstein, one document says. Such representations are in contravention of Justice Department regulations and Florida bar rules. Such representations also give, at least, the improper appearance that Reinhart may have attempted to curry with Epstein and then reap his reward through favorable employment.

Reinhart responded with a motion for sanctions, saying the documents contained unfounded factual and legal accusations. He asked for leave to intervene in the case.

U.S. District Judge Kenneth Marra, a George W. Bush appointee, rejected the bid, ruling that Reinhart did not share a common question of law with the legal action in question.

Reinhart was sworn in as a magistrate judge in 2018. Magistrate judges are chosen by other judges.

Roman Balmakov and Joe Hanneman contributed to this report.
Russ Vought, Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, in his office in Washington on Dec. 15, 2020. (Tal Atzmon/The Epoch Times)

Vought Laying Groundwork for Next GOP President to Neutralize Federal Bureaucracy

News Analysis

Russ Vought, who served as Office of Management and Budget (OMB) director during the Trump administration, had a plan, but too little time left in 2020 to restore the federal bureaucracy as a neutral tool for ensuring that officials do what American voters want done by their government.

But Vought will be ready from the get-go when, he hopes, the next Republican enters the Oval Office in January 2025. If he succeeds, Vought will accomplish something that has eluded presidents of both parties since before World War I, when Woodrow Wilson turned federal civil servants from neutral implementers into unaccountable policymaking experts.

Wilson upended the neutral federal workforce concept established by the Templeton Act of 1888, which replaced the former to-the-winner-goes-the-spoils system that had been in force for a century.

Wilson wanted policy experts in the bureaucracy, in whom would be vested immense independent powers to regulate U.S. society as they thought proper. That led to an explosion of regulations, including many intended to protect the newly muscular bureaucracy from electoral accountability.

Two of Wilsons Democratic successorsFranklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal and Lyndon B. Johnsons Great Societyexpanded the federal bureaucracy into such an unwieldy, cumbersome, and costly regulatory monster that another Democrat, President Jimmy Carter, made it one of his administrations chief goals to gain passage of the landmark Civil Service Reform Act (CSRA) of 1978.

However, it fell to Carters successor, Republican Ronald Reagan, to implement the CSRA, which included multiple provisions designed to make bureaucrats more accountable for their individual performance and easier to replace poor performers.

It worked for a few years but was fought throughout by OMB, which moderated CSRA during its legislative journey through Congress and then, afterward, helped agency experts and allies in Congress to modify CSRAs reforms, Donald Devine, the former director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) who managed the CSRA implementation for Reagan, wrote recently.

Today, we are basically back to the system Carter was elected to changebut worse, as aspects of his reforms are now forbidden by both law and regulation, he continued.

That was the situation when Vought became acting OMB director under Trump in 2019. Having served on Capitol Hill in various Republican policy positions for two decades, Vought was already familiar with entrenched bureaucrats repeatedly undermining common sense, conservative policy directives.

When the Senate confirmed him to the position the next year, Vought began taking concrete steps to address the problem.

What became known as Schedule F was a presidential executive order (EO) designed to extend the application of CSRAs basic principle of policy and performance accountability deeper into the bureaucracy. It gave the presidents appointees throughout the departments and agencies more flexibility to replace recalcitrant bureaucrats in confidential, policy-determining, policy-making, or policy-advocating positions.

But there were so many fires to put out during the Trump era that Vought only had 13 days before the 2020 election to implement his plan, and then only within OMB, where he reclassified an estimated 90 percent of the agencys employees.

We had been working on it for about two years and we were really trying to think through when we do it, Vought told The Epoch Times in an interview. James Sherk, a Trump domestic policy adviser and former Heritage Foundation analyst, is credited with the original concept for Schedule F.

A lot of my effort was to help get it across the finish line and then to show that an agency head was willing to use it, and then set down a marker that we would indeed do it in a second [Trump] term, Vought said.

One of President Joe Bidens first acts in office after defeating Donald Trump in the still-contested 2020 presidential election was to repeal the EO that created Schedule F. Since then, Vought founded the Center for Renewing America, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt think tank devoted to researching the case for and laying out policy frameworks for the continuation of the America First reforms that had been advanced by Trump.

That continuation could be carried out either by a resurgent Trump or by another of the GOPs potential alternative presidential candidates such as former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, or former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley.

But a July 22 Axios storyA Radical Plan for Trumps Second Term by Jonathan Swanrenewed concern throughout the Washington establishment that Schedule F will be among the top items on the policy agenda of any GOP president seeking to make significant headway toward reforming the Washington swamp.

One detail that gained particular notice was Swan citing an unnamed source who estimated that full-scale implementation of Schedule F could affect as many as 50,000 civil service positions.

There are approximately 2.1 million civilian federal employees, but only about 9,000or 0.43 percent of the totalof those positions are at-will, political appointees of a president. Assuming Swans 50,000 figure is accurate, it would still mean only 2.4 percent of the total workforce would be subject to Schedule F.

I think any time you are setting policy within an agency, think about your entire regulatory departments, think of all those general counsels, and its not just the general counsels but those massive legal departments, Vought said, when asked to describe the kinds of jobs that would be subject to Schedule F.

I think it would be pretty sizable, given how many people you have working on policy these days in the agencies.

Under the Trump EO, the ultimate decision about whether to reclassify a career position to Schedule F status would be made by the OPM director, a fact that would substantially elevate the importance of that presently obscure agency.

Vought has no illusions about the difficulties a future president would face if he or she attempts another run at Schedule F implementation.

Democrats in Congress who receive the overwhelming majority of federal employee union political donations are already rallying against the possibility of a Schedule F renewal. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the largest such labor group, steered more than 94 percent of its contributions to Democrats in 2020, continuing a decadeslong trend.

In the House of Representatives, Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) whose district is made up almost exclusively of government employees and contractors, authored a provision adopted by the lower chamber to prevent the implementation of Schedule F.

In the upper chamber of Congress, Sens. Tim Kaine and Mark Warner of Virginia; Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen of Maryland; and Diane Feinstein and Alex Padilla of California are co-sponsoring the Connolly provision.

The mainstream news media inaccurately portrayed Trumps Schedule F effort as an attempt to return to the old Spoils System that was abolished in 1888. Typical was an Oct. 23, 2020, Washington Post story headlined Trumps Historic Assault on the Civil Service Was Four Years in the Making. In fact, Schedule F is based on the CSRA that was conceived and signed into law by a Democratic president, then implemented by a Republican.

Vought is confident that as long as a GOP presidential aspirant makes reforming the federal bureaucracy a national issue, the Schedule F plan will go forward.

How would they not? The only reason it wouldnt be used is because no one would have wanted to take on the [opposition] forces, but, in some respects, that balloon has already been punctured, he said.

When you nationalize the issue heading into a presidential election, it makes it so this is part of the base of policy expectations in a way that it is not when someone just has a good policy idea and youre trying to figure is this a good idea and will it sustain itself.
Chinese Women view the bags they bought at a Louis Vuitton flagship store in Shanghai, China, on March 10, 2006. (China Photos/Getty Images)

Wealthy Chinese Selling Their Luxury Items for Quick Cash Amid Economic Downturn

Chinas luxury sector is in decline, with an increasing number of wealthy people selling their designer handbags or watches for extra cash.

China observer Xia Yifan told The Epoch Times on Aug. 5 that Chinese consumers, including the wealthy, are reluctant to buy luxury items because they dont have enough money and even have to sell their luxury goods to maintain their living standards.

Overall, economic depression and the impact of repeated zero-COVID measures have slowed growth in many cities across China, he said.

Economic Slowdown

Small and medium-sized enterprises are closing down one after another, while local governments are indifferent to it, said Xia. He added that for Communist Party officials, carrying out Beijings political orders may be more important than focusing on peoples livelihoods and the economy, not to mention their inability to solve the problem.

Due to the lack of financial security, many Chinese are pessimistic and are looking for their way out, with some planning to emigrate to foreign countries and others disposing of their assets so they have more cash on hand, Xia said.

An influential luxury appraiser surnamed Tian told Chinese news media Shanghai Hotline on Aug. 2 that many clients recently contacted him to sell their luxury bags, which they had bought from him, at a discounted price.

According to Tian, the Hermes Himalaya luxury bag, which was once speculated at a skyrocketing price of nearly 1.5 million yuan (about $220,000) in the past two years, shrank at least 10 percent in value. Luxury watch brand Patek Philippe also saw prices dive in the secondary market.

A female client in Hangzhou, a crucial e-commerce hub in China, sold Tian more than 10 Hermes bags for quick cash. Some of these bags were bought from Tian last year.

She desperately needed the money to support her husbands struggling company, and cash flow was pretty tight, she told Tian.

Tian said that most of the handbags he recovered were not from retailers but his friends closed-down stores.

Since the first half of the year, many secondhand luxury goods stores have fewer customers, and goods sold online are backlogged in the courier. Hoarded goods remain hoarded, and the capital chain is broken, he said.

A woman looks at luxury watches displayed in a shop in Hong Kong on April 14, 2006. (PHILIPPE LOPEZ/AFP via Getty Images)

Li Yi from the luxury industry has also recovered many large luxury items this year. Earlier in April, she received nearly 30 messages from customers wanting to sell their designer handbags, according to Shanghai Hotline.

Lis store is in an office building near Xiangcheng, a financial district in Hangzhou city.

One time, a man brought in 3-million-yuan (about $440,000) worth of luxury goods, including watches, bags, and some jewelry, she said.

The luxury brands will be hard to sell this year, Li said. People have no money to spend because of the impact of the ongoing pandemic measures.

Chinas COVID lockdown policies resulted in supply chain disruptions, affecting luxury sales and foreign trade lines.

This is just the beginning, and it will get worse in the future, Xia said, pointing to the current state of the countrys economy and peoples livelihoods.
Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) speaks during a hearing of the House Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington, on July 14, 2022. (Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)

Weaponized DOJ Undermines Citizens Faith in American Institutions: Rep. Mike Johnson

The news about the FBIs raid of former President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago property rung vivid imageries of deja vu in the mind of Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.). It is a replay of what Johnson saw as a member of the defense during U.S. President Donald Trumps 2019 impeachment trial.

But in Johnsons eyes, the issue is bigger than Trump, Mar-a-Lago, and politics in Washington.

A weaponized Department of Justice (DOJ) under the Biden administration today, Johnson said in an interview with The Epoch Times, is attacking the foundational pillars upon which the greatest Constitutional Republic was built and undermining American citizens faith in the nations institutions.

By design, the American justice system is a bulwark against tyranny, Johnson said during an interview at an America First Policy Institute (AFPI) event in July.

But if the Department of Justice, for example, is weaponized for political purposeswhich is what were seeing right now in the Biden ministrationthat jeopardizes that foundational pillar itself, Johnson said.

As a part of the House Judiciary Committee, which provides oversight over the DOJ, Johnson censured several episodes of the said weaponization of federal institutions and procedures; including the attempted impeachment of former president Donald Trump in 2019, the DOJs alleged long-arm targeting of parents protesting against progressive Critical Race Theory at school board meetings, and the Jan. 6 hearings that he called the third impeachment of Donald Trump in a June interview with Newsmax.

Congress Power Ursuped

Whats happened is the legislative branch has had its constitutional authority usurped by the other branches, Johnson told The Epoch Times.

Youve had activist judges for decades that had been advancing public policy from the bench. Youve had an executive branch that is willingly taking the power away from Congress, because some members, I suppose, didnt want to take tough votes on tough issues, Johnson said.

Richard Reinsch, a conservative scholar at the Heritage Foundation, echoed Johnsons observation in a May 11 commentary.

Rulemaking today, Reinsch wrote, takes place in the regulatory or administrative state, whereby the judges, who preside over litigation between the government and private actors, are themselves part of the establishment agency whose rules are in dispute.

Legislation, enforcement, and adjudication are exercised by the same set of hands. Publius called this tyranny, and one of the objectives of the 1787 Constitution was to eliminate it, Reinsch wrote, citing founding father Alexander Hamiltons pen name, Publius, from the Federalist Papers.

According to Johnson, overshadowing the executive overreachthe DOJs weaponization as an example of thisare two different philosophies in a battle of worldviews. He added that Democrats have a very different vision for the country than those who believe in Americas founding principles.

[Democrats] have disdain for the founding principles that we all believe in, and theyre trying to trade it for something else: a European-style socialist  utopian dream, which is folly of course, Johnson told attendees of the AFPI conference.

One of the responsibilities we have in Congress is oversightin the next Congress as welland we have to work on first, de-politicizing the Department of Justice. Its been completely weaponized under this administration, the lawmaker said.

Limiting Federal Agency Power

According to Johnson, the Supreme Court today has started to recognize the importance of limiting the power of government agencies, which he said is a very important trend that is moving America closer to the original design of the republic.

Youre seeing a United States Supreme Court that is beginning to recognize  that bureaucracies and regulatory agencies can exceed their authority, Johnson said, citing the highest courts West Virginia v. EPA ruling in June as an example of this recognition and adding that he is grateful for the conservative majority on the Supreme Court.

In the West Virginia ruling, the Supreme Court found that when an agency, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), claims the power to regulate vast swaths of American life, it not only risks intruding on Congresss power, it also risks intruding on powers reserved to the States, as Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote in his concurring opinion (pdf).

The Supreme Court found that [p]ermitting Congress to divest its legislative power to the Executive Branch, such as the EPAs proposed action of imposing emission standards on the states, would compromise the framers design of passing legislation requires a broad consensus among states, thereby ensuring that any new laws would enjoy wide social acceptance, profit from input by an array of different perspectives during their consideration.

In a world like that, agencies could churn out new laws more or less at whim. Intrusions on liberty would not be difficult and rare, but easy and profuse, Gorsuch said.

Jenna Ellis, constitutional attorney and a former senior counsel to former U.S. President Donald Trump, pointed to how the Supreme Court showed a similar way of thinking in disseminating policymaking power to the states with the recent ruling of Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization, which overturned Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that legalized abortion in the United States.

Ellis said that the courts findings in Dobbs are consistent with the original intent of the founders because it is fundamentally American for states and the American peoplenot any federal or judicial bodiesto regulate abortion.

Having the states regulate abortion is absolutely consistent with originalism and with the principles of limited and separate powers, Ellis told The Epoch Times in an interview in June. [Congress] is limited in what they can legislate on, pursuant to Article I, Section 8  the Ninth and Tenth Amendments go hand in hand with that, saying all powers not specifically given to the federal government are reserved to the states or to the people.

A part of this growing trend of limiting federal agency power, Johnson said, is the return of law enforcement from federal levels to the local and state levels, which he believes is a very important trend that is taking America closer to the founding principles that make it the greatest nation in the world.

Were getting back toI hope and believethe original design of the Republic, which served us very well, for the first century and a half of our history. And part of that is the law enforcement and the prosecutorial function being pushed down to the local and state level, Johnson said.

Fearmongering

Despite clashing chatter in the legal academia around whether the Dobbs abortion ruling means that policymaking surrounding other rights, such as the right to gay marriage, could be also handed to the states to deliberate, Johnson says he doesnt expect the current rights given to Americans are being taken away.

Theyre using a commentthe dictumthat Justice Thomas put into his concurring opinion, and suggesting somehow that all sorts of other rights are in jeopardy right now, Johnson said, with a caveat: that they claim to be rights.

Johnson is referring to Justice Clarence Thomass concurring opinion in Dobbs (pdf), in which Thomas called for the highest courts Justices to reconsider, in future cases, all of this Courts substantive due process precedents, including Griswold, Lawrence, and Obergefell, which respectively legalized birth control devices for married persons, sodomy, and same-sex marriage.

Thomas suggests in Dobbs that any Supreme Court precedent that hinges on the legal principle of substantive due process, including Griswold, Lawrence, and Obergefell, is demonstrably erroneous, and that the justices have a duty to correct the error established in those precedents.

But despite Thomass contention, Johnson said he doesnt expect the Supreme Court to make a move on these rights anytime soon.

We pointed out in the House Judiciary Committee just last week when we were having hearings  Jim Jordan and I went to the floor and argued against their marriage bill that was advanced last week, that this is all fearmongering. Its misplaced, Johnson said, referring to the Respect for Marriage Act (H.R. 8404) passed in the House on July 19. They know that this is not happening.

Even Clarence Thomas himself said that he agreed with the majority opinion [from] Alito  when he said, I agree abortion is different if youre talking about another human life, Johnson said, referencing Thomass concurring opinion with Justice Samuel Alito that the Dobbs ruling and its opinion should not be understood to cast doubt on precedents that do not concern abortion.

Its very distinct from all the other things that we might be debating an argument about, Johnson said. I think the Democrats are trying to use it as a wedge issue for the November elections when they know that its not really going to come to pass.

The Greatest Nation

Johnson called for conservatives to be evangelists for the truth, and tell the next generation that Americas founding principles are what makes it the greatest nation in the world.

The lawmaker said conservatives should go to places where were not expected to go and share the simple truths that  we have these foundational principles.

That is the reason we are the great nation. I dont see anyone scrambling to get into China or North Korea or Russia or any other country  Theyre all trying to come here. And theres a reason for that, Johnson said.

Were the greatest nation not by happenstancewere the greatest nation because we were built on these pillars.
Use your vacation, or mini vacation, as the ultimate opportunity to recharge and refocus

At the end of July, Kristen Campbell announced that she would be hosting her first beach yoga retreat in October. In a week, it was fully booked.

Campbell, owner of Cushing Yoga + Barre in Oklahoma, has attended dozens of wellness events and has regularly incorporated a specific schedule of retreating into her own lifestyle quarterly, weekly, and even daily. She has previously co-led retreats, but this will be the first one she hosts on her own.

At the retreat, Campbell will offer the types of activities that have been healing in her own lifeyoga, relaxing in the sun, sunset meditations, high-energy workouts, loud game nights, and a sense of playfulness and joy.

As an entrepreneur, I think its super important to get out of our normal rhythms, Campbell said. Its highly effective for me personally to remove myself and recharge.

Theres a shift taking place in wellness right now, according to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a nonprofit that provides global insight into the industry. The barometer for self-care has been moving away from pampering and escapism and toward self-preservation and survival, which might explain why wellness tourism is predicted to grow at a rate faster than other segments of wellness through 2025.

The multitude of stressors unleashed by the pandemic have brought a profound shift in how we view self-care, according to a GWI report accompanying the data. The pandemic has revealed the multidimensional and omnipresent nature of wellness. For our survival and for our sanity, wellness is no longer something that we do for an hour a day, a few times a month, or only when we are on vacation; it is an essential focus to be embedded in our daily lives and priorities.

The nonprofit Give Hope, Fight Poverty (GHFP) is planning a womens retreat later this year in Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) in southern Africa that will include yoga, meditation, dance parties, safaris, and play. Its a departure from the groups usual trips, which normally include a lot of laborsomething thats better done by locals seeking employment, the organization says.

This new experience will involve relationship-building between the orphaned children served by GHFP and the aging population that typically goes on the trips. Both groups will benefit from working on personal wellness in a small group setting.

While some like to get their hands dirty, its really unnecessary, Annie Todt, founder of GHFP, said. The only thing we cant hire locals for (which provides jobs) is us forming relationships with the kids, learning about them, gaining their trust.

So even though a retreat type luxury trip may seem selfish to some, its really beneficial for the kids and the organization as a whole.

Living by Design

While not everyone can afford an overseas wellness experience, anyone can benefit from a lifestyle of wellness retreatseven with no budget at all.

Two definitions of retreat are a place of peace, quiet, privacy, and security and a period of seclusion, retirement, or solitude. In a way, wellness tourists are positioning themselves to learn more about what makes them function best. Many habits and routines can get you to this goal.

In a 2015 article in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, experts gathered advice for health care providers to offer patients to orchestrate healthier environments in day-to-day living. Some of those tips include:

Get outside and walk.

Sit and relax in green space.

Take a moment to reflect on highlights of your day.

Practice gratitude for the events and people that bring joy and support to your life.

Get to know resources in your community and workplace that help with wellness.

Be the architect of your own environment.

Surround yourself with positive relationships, information, and books that promote your own resilience, optimism, and healthy relationships.

Campbell describes wellness tourism as similar to weightlifting. It requires intention, discipline, and occasional soreness. Emotional health, she says, can be nurtured like a muscle that benefits from periods of exertion and recovery. In this part of her life, shes leaning into recovery.

Over the past 18 months, Campbell has attended 16 funerals, including many for people very close to her. Through it all, she has continued to honor her need to retreat.

Faith isnt a given to me. Its a muscle. Its something I had to work hard at, she said. I believe thats a factor to my overall well-being.

The foundation of wellness that Campbell has built up since the time her three children were very young has allowed her to weather the storms of life.

The sage advice to rest while her kids were napping, rather than to use those hours to tackle to-do lists, is a rhythm shes maintained in the years since.

What Would Feed My Soul?

A high-energy fitness instructor, Campbell begins her day with classes at 5 a.m. By 1 p.m., shes already worked a full day. She takes the time from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. daily to do whatever she wants. That sets her up to be in the best state of mind for when her children get home from school.

These daily retreats are vital for appreciating life, Campbell says, explaining that she wants her traveling retreats to enhance her life but not cause her to dislike the day-to-day rhythm of life.

I want to tour the world to enhance my well-being but not to escape life, she said.

Not long ago, Campbell realized she had a habit of asking her yoga students to consider their needs during meditation. Shes since discovered that wants are just as important.

I never asked what they want, never gave them permission. Need is survival mode. Want is thriving, she said.

For the wellness tourist, the want question is vital. You must get honest about what you need and what you want, which could be the same thing but often arent.

Campbell knows that trips to the spa dont revitalize her. She needs and desires time outdoors in nature, time in the community, experiences of local culture, and times of high energy.

When she co-led a retreat to Mexico, it helped her refine what she enjoys. Participants ate plant-based foods that were prepared for them. They also went snorkeling and kayaking, spent time on the beach, and attended cultural workshops. But there was also a lot of free time built into the schedule during which Campbell could spend in solitude.

Im constantly going to the next thing in my real life, she said. I think I need a break from having to be somewhere at a certain time.

Use What You Already Have

Campbell tries to set up a series of mini-retreats each week in her schedule. It requires planning, discipline, and preparation.

These are practical tips she offers:

Make sure you have two days off of work, preferably consecutively. Because Campbell teaches fitness on Saturday, she takes every Monday off. Theres no teaching, no phone calls, and no people unless she wants to be around them.

Prepare your food or meals in advance to create more margin in your day.

Once a month, retreat somewhere for 24 hours. For her, this is usually her mother-in-laws house nearby.

Once a quarter, get away for the weekend. She usually enjoys this sacred time with her husband.

Plan these trips away with your calendar and pocketbookand maybe a map if youre planning to drive. Check out retreat centers around your home, national parks, and other free or affordable spaces.

For daily retreating, turn off your phone and computer for two hours a day and do what you want to doanything that restores joy and energy to your life.

Campbell, who is a Christian, points to Jesus as her example for retreats, as Jesus would often depart from large crowds to recharge, pray in solitude, and even sleep on a boat during a storm.

Putting it on your planner is the easy part, she said. The hardest part is practicing it. Start small. Do a digital detox on a weekend.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks to reporters during a press conference at the White House in Washington on Aug. 9, 2022. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

White House Hasnt Been Briefed on FBI Raid on Trump: Jean-Pierre

President Joe Biden and White House officials have not been briefed about the FBIs raid of former President Donald Trumps resort, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Aug. 9.

We did not know about this and we have not been briefed about this, Jean-Pierre told reporters in Washington.

Echoing a White House officials earlier statement, the press secretary said Biden and the rest of the White House learned about the Aug. 8 raid from public reports and were not notified before it happened.

No one at the White House was given a heads up, Jean-Pierre said.

The White House would say little about the raid, including whether it or Biden had a response to critics who say the raid should not have been carried out because of concerns about polarization, with Trump appearing set to run against Biden in 2024.

Jean-Pierre declined to answer whether there was concern about the optics of the raid, whether Biden would still welcome running against Trump, whether the Department of Justice (DOJ), which includes the FBI, acted properly, whether Attorney General Merrick Garland himself signed off on the search of Mar-a-Lago, and whether Biden had spoken with Garland on Tuesday.

She referred questions to the DOJ, which has not responded to inquiries or commented publicly since agents went to Mar-a-Lago, executing a warrant reportedly approved by a federal judge.

Jean-Pierre did commit to no briefings on the matter occurring between the Department of Justice and the White House in the future.

When it comes to a criminal investigation, that is the Department of Justice to investigate and deal with. We give them their independence when it comes to that, she said.

Bidens Event

During an event at the White House earlier Tuesday, Biden appeared to ignore questions about the raid.

Reporters shouted at Biden as he posed for photographs after signing the instruments of ratification for Finland and Sweden to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

Music was playing loudly at the time, so it wasnt clear if the president heard the queries.

Biden did not take any questions after the signing, nor did he speak with reporters after signing the United States Chips and Science Act.

Reason for Raid

While the U.S. government has not disclosed the reason for the raid, one of Trumps lawyers told The Epoch Times that agents were looking for classified and presidential records.

They were looking for presidential records, what they deemed to be presidential records, and anything that could potentially be classified, Christina Bobb, the lawyer, said.

Under the Presidential Records Act, certain records automatically transfer into the legal custody of the U.S. Archivist when a president transitions out of office.

But some of the records from Trumps time in office were at Mar-a-Lago until January, the National Archives and Records Administration has said. Fifteen boxes of the records were transferred to the National Archives in mid-January.
A car passes in front of former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Fla., in a Feb. 11, 2022, file photograph. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

White House Says It Had No Notice of FBI Raid on Trump

The White House is claiming it was not informed ahead of time of the FBIs raid on former President Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago resort.

We did not have notice of the reported action and would refer you to the Justice Department for any additional information, a White House official told The Epoch Times via email.

The Justice Department, which the FBI is a part of, has not responded to a request for comment.

The FBI declined to comment.

Trump announced the raid late on Aug. 8, calling it evidence of prosecutorial misconduct and a weaponization of the Justice System.

The raid was not announced and was motivated because Democrats do not want Trump to run again for president in 2024, the former president said.

Eric Trump, one of Trumps sons, said the raid was conducted to see whether his father possessed any documents from his time in office.

The purpose for the raid, from what they said, was because the National Archives wanted to corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession, Eric Trump said on Fox News.

The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) said in February that it received boxes of documents from Trumps resort.

The Presidential Records Act mandates that all Presidential records must be properly preserved by each Administration so that a complete set of Presidential records is transferred to the National Archives at the end of the Administration, David Ferriero, the archivist of the United States, said in a statement at the time.

NARA pursues the return of records whenever we learn that records have been improperly removed or have not been appropriately transferred to official accounts.

Reaction

Some legal experts questioned the raid, and many Republicans decried the move.

Todays raid is outrageous and unjust, but predictable, Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) said in a statement, noting that FBI Director Christopher Wray has defended his agencys counterintelligence efforts against the Trump campaign in 2016.

This is 3rd World country stuff. We need answers NOW. The FBI must explain what they were doing today & why, Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) wrote on Twitter.

But many Democrats defended the raid, including Rep. Elaine Luria (D-Va.).

It truly is unprecedented, but its unprecedented because this is in reaction to an unprecedented presidency, Luria said on MSNBC. We never before saw a president who sought to overturn an election, fake electors, put pressure on the vice president, summon a mob to D.C.

An unprecedented response is required to these unprecedented actions where we need to have accountability, she added later.
Wisconsin Republican gubernatorial candidate Tim Michels (L), speaks as former President Donald Trump listens at a rally in Waukesha, Wis., on Aug. 5, 2022. (Morry Gash/AP Photo)

Wisconsin GOP Governors Primary Represents Another Clash Between Trump and Pence

Voters head to the polls on Aug. 9 in Wisconsin, and for the third time, a candidate endorsed by former President Donald Trump faces a candidate given the stamp of approval by his former vice president, Mike Pence.

Businessman Tim Michels, backed by Trump, and former Wisconsin lieutenant governor Rebecca Kleefisch, supported by Pence, are the leading contenders in the Republican gubernatorial primary.

The race represents the most recent battle between Trump and Pence, both of whom are potential presidential candidates in 2024.

Michels, who owns a construction company, has loaned his campaign around $12 million. Kleefisch is backed by Pence along with former Wisconsin Republican Gov. Scott Walker and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas).

Wisconsin GOP gubernatorial candidate Rebecca Kleefisch (center) makes a campaign stop in Brookfield, Wisconsin on August 8. (Courtesy of Rebecca Kleefisch)

A former TV news anchor, Kleefisch served for two terms as lieutenant governor under Walker, who has enthusiastically campaigned for her.

Kleefisch has raised more than $7.5 million. State Rep. Tim Ramthun has generated around $189,000.

Until Michels entered the race and then secured Trumps endorsement in June, Kleefisch owned a comfortable lead in the polls. Michels has poured millions of dollars of his own money into TV ads, portraying himself as a businessman and an outsider.

Michels and Kleefisch have cast doubt on President Joe Bidens victory in Wisconsin in 2020.

Kleefisch has drawn criticism from Trump for being an establishment politician, but she has said the 2020 election was rigged. She is also the lone Wisconsin GOP gubernatorial candidate who has dismissed the idea of overturning the outcome.

Its not constitutionally possible, Kleefisch said at a GOP gubernatorial debate. There is no path to decertifying an election that has already happened.

Wisconsin political strategists have said that the primary illustrates a divide between Republicans in the suburbs, where Kleefisch draws significant support, and the rural areas, which are loyal to Trump.

The winner of the Aug. 9 primary will face Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, who defeated Walker by a percentage point in 2018 and has frequently battled Wisconsins conservative-leaning state legislature. He has vetoed more bills in a single session than any governor in the states history.

Every candidate in the Republican primary is too extreme for our state, and would sign into law dangerous bills that would undermine our democracy, Evers campaign spokesman Sam Roecker said in a statement. Gov. Evers is focused on doing the right thing for our state and bringing people together to solve real problems.

Through July, Evers raised $11.1 million.

Biden won Wisconsin by around 21,000 votes in 2020. Trump has repeatedly called for state legislators to invalidate the results. Wisconsins Supreme Court ruled that dropboxes for absentee ballots are no longer allowed.

So do you know what that means? Trump said at a rally for Michels on Aug. 5 in Waukesha, Wisconsin. That means they were obviously illegal in the 2020 election. Hundreds and hundreds of thousands of votes.

Michels reiterated his promise to eliminate the states elections commission, a viewpoint Kleefisch also shares.

I am going to get election integrity back in Wisconsin, Michels said at the rally. We are going to stop the Zuckerbucks, out-of-state billionaires coming into our state and taking control of our election process. It wont happen anymore.

Kleefisch has repeatedly said that decertifying Wisconsins 2020 election results is not legal under state or federal law.

At the rally, Trump said that Kleefisch is a career politician and a political insider and described her as the handpicked candidate of the failed establishment.

Recent polling shows a tight race.

Days before the primary, an Emerson College poll showed that Kleefisch had a two-point lead36 percent to 34 percentover Michels, which is within the margin of error. Ramthun was third with 8 percent while 14 percent reported that they are undecided.

When undecided voters were polled about who they were leaning toward, Kleefisch gained 41 percent compared to 39 percent for Michels.

According to that survey, 39 percent of the voters said that Trumps endorsement impacts their decision while 49 percent of the respondents said it does not.

Former Vice President Mike Pence addressed hundreds of supporters of Arizona gubernatorial candidate Karrin Taylor Robson at an event in Peoria, Ariz., on July 22, 2022. Pence has endorsed Robson, a Republican, for governor in the Arizona primary on Aug. 2. (Allan Stein/The Epoch Times)

Trump and Pence have also split on their gubernatorial candidate endorsement results.

In May, Pence-backed Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp trounced Trump-supported challenger David Perdue.

Last week, Trump-endorsed Kari Lake defeated Pence-backed Karrin Taylor Robson in Arizona.

On Aug. 8, Michels attended the Wisconsin State Fair in the afternoon and hosted a rally in the evening.

Kleefisch traversed the state with multiple stops in towns before traveling across the state, with multiple stops before ending in Brookfield, which is a stronghold for Michels in suburban Milwaukee.

When Pence endorsed Kleefisch, he said, Rebecca has a proven conservative track record and will draw on her experience to give parents more control of their childrens education, grow the economy and get Wisconsin back to work, fight for traditional conservative values, and make Wisconsin streets safer. Conservatives across the Badger State can fight back against the radical left in Wisconsin and join me in supporting Rebecca Kleefisch for governor.

Trump believes that Evers will win another term as governor if Kleefisch prevails on Aug. 9.

Rebecca Kleefisch does not have what it takes to beat Tony Evers, Trump said. Hes going to win if he runs against Rebecca.

Not long after receiving Pences backing, Kleefisch told supporters at a campaign stop, I am the one who is tested and proven and ready to go. I am the one who has won statewide four times.

Political analysts like The Cook Political Report, Sabatos Crystal Ball, and Inside Elections rate the general election as a toss-up.

Evers told reporters last month that he welcomes the challenge and highlighted the states 2.8 percent unemployment rate and a cut in income taxes among other accomplishments during his term.

I have a good record, Evers said. Let them bring it on.
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BOISE, Idaho (AP)  The U.S. Department of Justice asked a federal judge this week to bar Idaho from enforcing its near-total abortion ban while a lawsuit pitting federal health care law against state anti-abortion legislation is underway.

Meanwhile, the Republican-led Idaho Legislature is asking for permission to intervene in the federal case, just as it has done in three other abortion-related lawsuits filed in state courts.

The complex legal maneuvering playing out in Idaho is becoming increasingly common in red states as the American landscape of reproductive care continues to feel the aftershocks from the U.S. Supreme Courts decision overturning decades of abortion rights rulings. Judges in the neighboring states of Montana and Wyoming were weighing similar requests, with the Montana Supreme Court on Tuesday keeping three abortion laws on pause and the Wyoming judge expected to issue a ruling soon.

If allowed to go into effect, the Idaho law will cause significant irreparable harm, including to the public health of patients across Idaho, Justice Department attorney Lisa Newman wrote in court documents filed Monday.

The Justice Department sued Idaho last week over the state's strict abortion ban, saying it would force doctors to violate the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, a federal law that requires anyone coming to a medical facility for emergency treatment to be stabilized and treated.

The law enacted in 2020 and set up as a trigger law automatically takes effect on Aug. 25 now that the U.S. Supreme Court has overturned its landmark abortion rights ruling nearly a half-century after Roe v. Wade.

The law criminalizes all abortions, and anyone who performs, attempts or assists with abortions can face two to five years in prison in addition to losing their health care license. However, physicians who perform abortions to save a patient's life, or in cases of rape or incest, can use that information as a legal defense during the criminal trial.

The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act requires hospitals that receive federal Medicare funds to provide stabilizing medical treatment to patients experiencing medical emergencies. Some of those patients are pregnant, the Justice Department said, and in some situations that emergency stabilizing treatment involves terminating a pregnancy.

Idaho has 52 Medicare-certified hospitals that together received approximately $3.4 billion in Medicare funds during the 2018, 2019 and 2020 budget years, according to the lawsuit, including about $74 million that was attributed to the hospitals' emergency departments.

Idaho's law is far narrower than the federal law, the Justice Department contends, and and puts physicians in impossible positions when they have patients with ectopic pregnancies, dangerously high blood pressure, serious infections and other life-threatening conditions.

Even in cases where termination of the pregnancy is necessary to prevent the patients death, the Idaho law requires a physician to risk arrest and prosecution for each abortion performed because the law affords only an affirmative defense that the physician must prove at trial," Newman wrote for the federal government. "By threatening physicians with criminal prosecution  even when they provide treatment in emergency, life-threatening situations as federal law requires  Idahos law penalizes and discourages such treatment, and thereby conflicts directly with federal law.

Idaho Attorney General Lawrence Wasden's office has not yet responded to the lawsuit in legal filings, but Wasden issued a statement last week calling the lawsuit politically motivated and criticizing the Justice Department for not first seeking a meaningful dialogue with state officials on the issue.

The Idaho Legislature asked permission to formally intervene in the case on Monday.

The Legislature has unique understandings and insights into Idaho emergency room abortions (the only type of abortions at issue here) that will also assist this court in the just resolution of this civil action, the legislatures privately hired attorneys, Daniel Bower and Monte Neil Stewart, wrote.

Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill did not say in court documents when he would make a ruling on the Justice Department request to put the abortion ban on hold, but did set out a timeline requiring that friend of the court briefs like those from the Legislature be filed by Aug. 19 in the case.

The state of Idaho is also fighting three other abortion-related lawsuits in the Idaho Supreme Court. Those lawsuits, filed by a regional Planned Parenthood affiliate and a family doctor, take aim at the state's near-total abortion ban, another abortion ban that begins after six weeks of pregnancy, and a law allowing potential relatives of an embryo or fetus to sue abortion providers for at least $20,000.

Those cases are still pending in court.

In Wyoming, attorneys argued Tuesday over whether Wyomings abortion ban should continue to be suspended amid a lawsuit contesting the new law.

Four women, including two obstetricians, and two nonprofits, including one that planned to open a Casper womens health and abortion clinic that was firebombed in May, filed the Wyoming lawsuit. Wyomings law would allow abortions in cases of rape, incest and serious medical complications but the ban would force pregnant women in such circumstances and their doctors to grapple with the risk of prosecution, they argue.

Teton County District Judge Melissa Owens, in Jackson, showed sympathy with those arguments in temporarily suspending Wyomings abortion ban hours after it took effect July 27. After hearing similar arguments again Tuesday, Owens plans to rule no later than Wednesday on whether to continue to suspend the law.

Meanwhile in Montana, the state Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld a temporary injunction blocking three abortion laws passed by the 2021 Legislature from taking effect while a legal challenge plays out.

The challenged laws would have banned abortions passed 20 weeks, eliminated tele-health services for medication abortions and require abortion providers to offer patients the opportunity to listen to the fetal heart tone or view an ultrasound before performing an abortion.

___

Associated Press writers Amy Beth Hanson in Helena, Montana and Mead Gruver in Cheyenne, Wyoming, contributed.
Russia has temporarily withdrawn its facilities from inspections under the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), the country's foreign ministry said in a statement Monday.

"Russia officially informed the United States that our country was temporarily withdrawing its facilities subject to inspections under this treaty from inspection activities," the ministry said.

Moscow said it was forced to suspend inspections "as a result of Washington's persistent attempts to restart inspection activities" under unfair conditions, which created advantages for the U.S. side while simultaneously making it impossible for Russia to carry out inspections in the United States.

Anti-Russian restrictions imposed by Washington have disrupted air travel between Russia and the United States, making it impossible for Russian inspection teams to reach necessary destinations, the ministry said.

The ministry said both sides must "abandon counterproductive attempts aimed at artificially speeding up the resumption of inspection activities" and focus on eliminating all existing problems in this area.

It said the measures were temporary and would be canceled if all existing issues were eliminated.

In 2010, Washington and Moscow signed the New START, which limits the number of deployed nuclear warheads and strategic delivery systems by both.

The last remaining nuclear arms control treaty in force between the two nuclear superpowers, New START can be extended by a maximum of five years with the consent of the two countries.

Russia and the United States officially extended the treaty by five years on February 3, 2021.
NORWALK  A Stamford man was charged Friday with breaking into a womans apartment and assaulting her multiple times this summer while she had a protective order against him, according to police.

Norwalk police served Michael McFarlane, 29, of Stamford, with three arrest warrants on Friday while he appeared in court in Stamford, according to Lt. Terrence Blake in an email Monday.

The warrants stem from three separate incidents.

The first took place on June 23. McFarlane was accused of breaking into an apartment through a second-floor window. A woman inside the home, who McFarlane allegedly assaulted during the incident, had a protective order in place against McFarlane, Blake said.

When McFarlane got into the apartment, he and the woman got into an argument. He allegedly grabbed the woman by her neck and pushed her into a wall. He then pulled the womans hair, dragged her across the bed and onto the floor where he put her into a choke hold, according to Blake.

McFarlane also stole the womans cellphone and left the scene before police arrived. Blake noted that McFarlane was wanted by the state parole office at the time for violating terms of his release.

The woman declined a medical evaluation, but Blake said she suffered injuries that were not life-threatening.

Police were called back to the same home the next day for a report of McFarlane forcing his way into the residence through a window. Officers learned that when the woman refused to let McFarlane into the apartment, he threatened to shoot her with a gun that he was holding, according to Blake.

McFarlane again left the area before police arrived, Blake said.

A few weeks later, on July 16, police returned to the apartment for a complaint. The woman told police that she opened the front door, believing it was a family member, after McFarlane had knocked. McFarlane pushed his way into the apartment and allegedly punched the woman in the face, according to Blake.

The woman told police that her children were there during the incident. The woman was able to lock herself and her children in a bathroom. McFarlane eventually left the apartment after he broke the womans cellphone, according to Blake.

Paramedics took the woman to Norwalk Hospital where she was treated for her injuries, Blake said.

Police tried to find McFarlane again, but were unsuccessful.

McFarlane appeared in court on Aug. 5 while he appeared in court in Stamford for a separate case. There, Norwalk police served McFarlane three arrest warrants.

Norwalk police charged McFarlane with three counts of second-degree burglary, two counts of third-degree assault, fifth-degree larceny, second-degree threatening, second-degree breach of peace, two counts of risk of injury to a minor, third-degree criminal mischief, and three counts of violation of a protective order, according to Blake.

He was held on $150,000 bond. As of Monday, he has not been released from custody, according to court records.

Court records state he is due in court next on Oct. 7.

Anyone who experiences or witnesses incidents of domestic violence, or knows someone who may be in a violent relationship, should reach out for help. For free, confidential help, visit CTSafeConnect.org or call the states Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-888-774-2900 (For English) or 1-844-831-9200 (Para Espanol).

The National Domestic Violence Hotline also provides free and confidential support. The hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-7233. Advocates can also be accessed by chatting on TheHotline.org or by texting START to 88788.
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If you like blood, guts, fighting and watching people die, "Bullet Train" the movie for you.

You have heard of Strangers on a Train. Well, this is Assassins on a Train and for all the blood and guts, this movie is a little too long. The film critics were trying to guess how many people were killed in the film and the guesses ran from 50 to 200.

Even knowing the death toll, this is basically a funny movie. Academy Award winner Brad Pitt is good at pulling off a funny line.

Ladybug (Pitt) is an assassin who thinks he is unlucky and nothing ever goes right with all his kills. He is right because nothing does go right on the world's fastest train, the Japanese bullet train. He meets one assassin after another, each trying to kill the other.

The end of the line is just the beginning of this non-stop thrill ride through modern-day Japan.

Aaron Taylor Johnson is Tangerine and Brian Tyree Henry is Lemon, Tangerines brother, which at first seems odd since Tangerine is white and Lemon is black. Prince is Joey King, the son of White Death, who Tangerine and Lemon have been hired to protect and return to their father. I love these two. They had some of the funniest scenes in the movie.

Academy Award winner Sandra Bullock is Maria. If you blink, you will miss Bullock; I think she only has a couple of minutes of screen time. To call her role a cameo is a gross exaggeration even though she, along with Pitt, have top billing in the film.

David Leitch, who was once a stunt man, directed the film. You can tell he wanted to support stunt people everywhere because I think he used every stunt person in Hollywood on this film. Leitch also directed Atomic Blonde, Deadpool 2 and John Wick.

Zak Olkewicz adapted the Japanese novel Maria Beetle which was published in English as Bullet Train by Kotaro Isaka.

I loved the bullet train system they have in Japan. It was featured along with some breathtaking views of the Japanese countryside.

At first, I didnt like the film given all the bloodshed we have witnessed in our country in the last few years. I think this is the last movie kids need to see today.

But as an adult, I laughed at a lot at Brad Pitts antics and the method most of the assassins were taken out.

Bullet Train is now showing at Edwardsville, Granite City and Alton. I give it 3 stars.
State and Non State actors in Ebonyi State have avowed their collective Commitment toward advancing the goals of Open Government Partnership for better service delivery in the State.

The commitment was the climax of a 4 day meeting of the actors in Abakaliki, with representatives of the OGP national secretariat.

The meeting: Onboarding of OGP Steering Committee and State Action Plan Review, held from the 1st to 4th of August, was sponsored by the State Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness, State2State project in Ebonyi State.

State actors comprising representatives of major Ministries, departments and Agencies of government was led by the Principal Secretary to Ebonyi State Governor, Chief Emmanuel Obasi while the Non State actors comprising Civil Society Organisations was led by the Executive Director, Development and Integrity Intervention Goals, (DIG) Foundation, Chief Oliver Aja Chima.

Both Obasi and Chima are Co-chairmen representing State and Non State actors respectively, in the OGP initiative.

The group reviewed the existing thematic areas of the OGP State Action plan comprising of fiscal transparency, access to information and Citizen engagement, and agreed to introduce peace building and conflict management into document.

They further reviewed and endorsed the action plan commitment as follow: ensure effective implementation of public procurement and fiscal responsibility laws and policies in the State; improve ease of doing business, tax transparency and revenue generation.

They further agreed on commitment to ensure regular platform for citizens engagement with the government in policy issues, especially in the budgeting process; citizens access to government - held information, as well as ensure collaboration for peaceful coexistence in Ebonyi State.

Addressing participants during the event, the OGP National CSO Advisor, Uchenna Arisukwu, decried the hitherto dormant status of OGP initiative in Ebonyi State.

He urged the OGP steering Committee in the State to rise up in defence of their commitment to ensure that the gains of Open Government Partnership are enjoyed by all and sundries in the State, or risk being delisted.

Arisukwu described OGP as a global coalition of reformers from government and the Civil Society, working to make governance transparent, participatory and accountable to truly serve and empower citizens.

Emma Obasi, speaking for the government side acknowledged the contributions of CSOs in the State towards improving governamce and service delivery, pledging to sustain the renaisant relationship.

Obasi said: "For me as a person, this is a very good development.

"If Nigeria had keyed into the OGP from 1999 when democracy came on board, and sustained it aggressively, and empowered OGP, I think we could have done better.

"Even these crises we are facing now, economically, educationally, security and otherwise, wouldn't have been there.

" I pray that God will help us to fully achieve our OGP target, and become the first in the country in the implementation of our State Action Plan."

Chima of DIG Foundation, pledged on behalf of the CSOs, to continue to effectively work with State Actors to identify issues, solutions and reforms in governance in the State.

He appreciated the present government in the State for recognizing and providing conducive atmosphere for the contributions of organised CSOs in governance.

Among other issues discussed during the event are History of OGP and Gender inclusiveness handled respectively by Arisukwu and Ejiro Okorie, the Gender and Social inclusion Specialist for State2State.

Recall that Nigeria met the eligibility criteria for OGP in 2014. Presently, 23 States plus the FCT has signed into the OGP initiative in Nigeria.

The States which have signed in are: Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Kogi, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Gombe, Enugu, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Ondo, Nasarawa, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Zamfara and Sokoto.
Parents, students, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and of course the entire nation were on Friday, August 5, 2022, dazed with disbelief over statement credited to Festus Keyamo, minister of state for labour and employment., while in an interview on Channels Television , over ASUU srike which commenced February 14, embarked upon by the Group to protest governments inability to implement their demands on salaries and allowances of lecturers, and improved funding for universities.

In his response to a question on the manner the federal government has handled the strike issue, among other things said that ASUUs demands are related to overhead cost, and that the federal government doesnt have the funds to implement the unions request.

The moment they went on strike, we intervened. What is the manner again beyond that? The moment they declared the strike, even before the strike began, we called them to a meeting, he said. What manner is more than that? Its not that we left them to go on strike first and we were sleeping, and three months later, we said can we start talking? The moment they declared, we immediately called them and said let us start talking. And as the talks started, they still went on strike. You cannot allow one sector of the economy to hold your jugular and blackmail you to go and borrow N1.2 trillion for overheads, when our total income is about N6.1 trillion, and you have roads, health centres to build, and other sectors to take care of. Let them go back to classes. They are not the only ones in Nigeria. They are not the only ones feeding from the federal purse. The nation cannot grind to a halt because we want to take care of the demands of ASUU. He concluded.

Essentially, while Nigerians are still shocked in disbelief that a Federal Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria could make such a declaration, there are even more reasons, in the opinion of this piece, to conclude that Keyamo current outburst did come as a surprise but qualifies as regular music hall firm gravitating towards recurrent decimal. .

There exist some particulars to support the above claim.

In March 2020,, during the Ministry of Labour and the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU), meeting with the leadership of the House of Representatives over a similar strike action, It was reported that the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, who represented the Federal Government, in his submissions got more preoccupied with establishing the illegality inherent in the strike than telling the gathering the effort the Federal Government was making to find real and lasting solution to the warning strikes embarked upon by ASUU.

Quoting the Trade Dispute Act which requires that ASUU give 15 days notice before embarking on any strike, Keyamo stressed that since the ministry has not received any notice of strike from ASUU, the FG remain officially unaware of the demands of ASUU.

But like the present circumstance, Keyamos asymmetrical argument could not hold water as it was faced with embarrassing fact from Professor Abiodun Ogunyemi, the now out gone National President of ASUU.

On that day, at that time and in that place, Ogunyemi going by media reports, disclosed that Federal government was routinely informed of every development. He stated that; on February 7, 2019, a Memorandum of Action was signed between ASUU and FG. He averred that on January 9, 2020, the union met with President Buhari and the ministries where he asked the ministers to look into the issues raised, noting that there had been meetings with the Minister of Education and ASUU. He added that ASUU had written to the Minister of Labour informing him of the strike.

The most serious loss of the argument on the part of the FG that further blew fresh wind to the Ministers position came through Ogunyemis submission that the 2019 agreement is the originating document and, till date, the agreement has not been met, adding that the union is at loggerheads with the government over the directive to members of ASUU to enroll in the Integrated Payroll Personnel Information System (IPPIS) which the government made compulsory for all civil servants, because it is not in line with the best global practices and capped with capacity to further reduce the ranking of Nigerian universities.

What does all these mean to Festus Keyamo and the Federal Government? Can truthfulness and creativity be taught or cultivated consciously?

Whatever the true position may be, I believed and still believe that from the ASUUs well chiseled positions, the first reaction that comes to mind is; what prevented the Federal Government from abiding with the terms of the Memorandum of Action entered with ASUU since 2019? Why has FG demonstrated a very high level of timidity in implementing such accord and similar ones in the past?

Even as these reactions from bewildered Nigerians continue, there are indeed facts that Keyamo and the President Muhammadu Buhari led Federal Government as a whole must commit to mind.

First is that globally, the relationship between employers/employees is always strained, always headed toward conflict. It is a natural conflict built into the system. Unions do not strike on a whim or use the strike to show off their strength. They look at strikes as costly and disturbing, especially for workers and their families. Strikes are called as last resort. And any government that fails to manage this delicate relationship profitably or fails to develop a cordial relationship with the workers becomes an enemy of not just the workers but that of the open society and, such society will sooner than later find itself degenerate into chaos.

Secondly, a glance at the news headlines across the world points to the fact that getting the children off the streets and making quality and affordable education available for them is one of the cardinal steps that must be taken by government to achieve such a programme.. This is in addition to the fact that education is the bedrock of development of any nation, there is an accompanying belief that the streets are known for breeding all sorts of criminals and other social misfits who constitutes the real threats in the forms of armed robbers, drug addicts, prostitutes, drunkards and other social ills that gives a society bad name.

Thirdly is the new awareness that other nations, including educationally advantaged countries, are re-doubling their investments in, and finding traditional progressive solution to education. In fact, education has recently been discovered to have extremely valuable strategy for solving societys problems. So why cant Nigeria?

Very key, FG must find ways to creatively end perennial under funding of the public universities and other strategic failures which consequentially; impedes lecturers from carrying out scholarly researches, truncates academic calendar with strike actions by the Academic staff Union of Universities(ASUU),and the Nion Academic Staff of Universities(NASU), lace Nigerian universities with dilapidated and overstretched learning facilities with the universities producing graduates devoid of linkage with the manpower demand by the nations industrial sector.

Most importantly, even when it is evident that educational development, particularly at the tertiary level is not what government alone can shoulder as it is both capital intensive and requires productive collaboration. That fact notwithstanding, the FG must not lose sight to the effect that with sound educational institutions, a country is as good as made -as the institutions will turn out all rounded manpower, FG must recognize that not finding real and sustainable solution to strike actions and other rots in the academic system could be likened to a horse shaking off flies with its tails oblivious of the fact that as soon as it stops to flail its tail, the flies will come back more determined to snipe.

To catalyze this process, what I would expect from Keyamo as a former activist is not logic but to encourage the Federal Government see how they can comply with the United Nation Educational Scientific, and Cultural Organization [UNESCO] budgetary recommendation on education sector.

Utomi Jerome-Mario is the Programme Coordinator (Media and Public Policy), Social and Economic Justice Advocacy (SEJA), A Lagos-Based Non Governmental Organization (NGO). He could be reached via [email protected]/08032725374 .




The Urhobo is among the first 10 major ethnic groups, and fifth largest in Nigeria, yet, its initial capacity to command considerable influence in the Nigerian polity was weakened by lack of brotherliness, unity, and trust among its people, unarguably, owing to multiplicity of dialects, as depicted in the 24 kingdoms that make up the nationality.

In an attempt to eliminate this deficit, prevent disunity-induced regression, and raise sustained awareness for unity and trust across the divide, the founding Urhobo leaders came up with a philosophical slogan of Urhobo Ovuovo.

Specifically, the concept of Urhobo Ovuovo was informed by the need to foster unity as a strategy for driving the collective interests and aspirations of Urhobo people, particularly within the Nigerian space. The concept, which simply means, Urhobo is one, became the major thrust of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), formerly Urhobo Brotherly Society at its formation, in 1931.

Its founding leaders recognized clearly from the outset that without unity among a people, unison and progress might be hampered, prompting them to identify and highlight the dangers of disunity to peace, growth and development in pursuit of Urhobo vision.

On the strength of this, the leadership of UPU led by Chiefs Omorohwovo Okoro, Mukoro Mowoe and Thomas Erukeme made unity a catalyst and driver in their quest for progress in Urhobo land, as aptly captured in the Unions motto: Unity is Strength. This was also reflected in the Aims and Objectives of the Unions Constitution, namely: To foster the spirit of love, mutual understanding and brotherhood among Urhobo people. Since then, unity has remained one of the guiding principles in decision-making process in UPU.

All free born of Urhobo, irrespective of place of birth and location, are automatic members of UPU. Branches of UPU exist in all corners of the globe, particularly in countries with significant presence of Urhobos. From Europe to United Kingdom, Australia, and from America to Asia and the Middle East, UPU is active. All positions held by UPU executives are held in trust for all Urhobos.

Thus, it came as a surprise to many sons and daughters of Urhobo ancestry, the alleged decision of the current national executive of UPU led by Chief Moses Taiga to endorse a particularly candidate for the 2023 governorship election in Delta State. Regrettably, up till this moment, the executive is yet to deny the allegation. However, since silence means consent, it is assumed to be true, at least, for now.

By this position, the leadership of UPU is unwittingly, laying a foundation for potential cracks in the body of the oldest socio-cultural organization in Nigeria. The endorsement negates and runs contrary to the vision of the founding fathers, as it is not only a recipe for disunity in Urhobo land, but capable of encouraging emergence of parallel bodies or equivalent associations.

The UPU could be likened to a father, with members as children. Like children in a family, it is absurd for a father to overtly demonstrate preference or declare support or identify or show love for one over the others. This can permanently put a division in such a family.

Since all gubernatorial contenders in the 2023 general election in Delta State are of Urhobo descent, it was needless for the UPU to have expressed preference for one candidate over the others, more so, when the outcome will ultimately produce Urhobo son as winner. Therefore, in line with the spirit of unity and progress for Urhobo nation, UPU should have invited all candidates for a counselling meeting premised on peaceful electioneering conduct devoid of violence.

If it was a contest involving Urhobo sons and other ethnic groups, then UPU was obligatory to back its own, as demonstrated by the support given to Chief Daniel Okumagba when he contested as governorship candidate of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in 1979. UPU also extended similar backing to Chief Felix Ibru when he ran for same office under the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1993.

It is therefore imperative for the national executives of the union to strive at all times not to deviate from the objective of UPU, but focus on issues that can deepen unity and progress in Urhobo land, particularly within the context of emerging challenges.

It must draw from the experience of the founding fathers, who at the time, were confronted with daunting challenges, but overcame them through sheer vision and action plans, like they did with the establishment of Urhobo College in 1948 when UPU identified education as a major tool for boosting opportunities and aspirations. This also led to sponsorship of Messrs Gabriel Ejaife and Ezekiel Igho to universities abroad during the intervening period.

Besides, Urhobo territories straddling other ethnic neighbours that were facing expropriation threat were all reclaimed and regrouped within Urhobo geographical boundaries. Some of these cases involved litigation, and these were won and recovered with the support of UPU. There was no true son and daughter of Urhobo who was not proud of these accomplished milestones then.

Even the translation of the Holy Bible into Urhobo language was part of efforts to advance and strengthen Urhobo unity, which became a source of pride, as it went a long way in defining the Urhobo personality.

The Urhobo nation cannot be insulated from current dynamics and challenges in Nigeria. UPU must therefore be proactive and respond to these vulnerabilities, particularly those that can potentially hinder development in Urhobo land.

Insecurity is currently a threat. Fulani herdsmen have become a menace in Urhobo forests and savannas, stalling farming business and creating fear across the land through criminal activities. This is also responsible for reluctance of Urhobos to come home to invest. While efforts by UPU in this regard must be acknowledged, it should take further steps through concrete action plans to nip this criminality in the bud. Urhobo Security Network (USN) and other surveillance groups should be strengthened and equipped to provide intelligence and sundry activities.

Urhobo wealth is outside Urhobo land, partly because of deve (development fees). UPU should discourage youth from harassing and collecting these levies from potential investors and developers. Monarchs collaborating with youth in this shameful act should be sanctioned. If five percent of Urhobo wealth can be attracted home for investment, jobs will be available for youth.

Also, UPU should constitute Economic Advisory Council to hold Urhobo Economic Summit annually aimed at identifying opportunities that will promote empowerment and stimulate development in Urhobo land.

The future is science and technology. While the proposed Mukoro Mowoe University is commendable, it should be STEM-based (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Currently, there is under-admission of Urhobo sons and daughters in Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) and Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE). UPU should sensitize and encourage all secondary schools in Urhobo land to predominantly pattern their syllabus after science to enable them take advantage of these opportunities.

Also, there is dearth of qualified artisans in Urhobo land. UPU should establish technical schools similar to former Sapele Technical College or Atamakolomi Trade School, where Urhobo youth can acquire vocational skills in carpentry, electricals, automobile engineering, welding, bricklaying, tiling, painting, tailoring, and other artistry works.

Of note is Urhobo Historical Society (UHS) which was set up to study, research and document Urhobo history and culture, just as the Urhobo Studies Association (USA) was established to promote scholarships pertaining to Urhobo language, literature and culture. UPU should support these institutions, particularly the USA to drive the study of Urhobo language and literature in universities up to doctorate level.

Urhobo and her immediate neighbours have common socio-economic challenges and aspirations but are unable to work in unison for this purpose due to trust gap engendered by domination fear. This was one of the reasons the Itsekiri opposed the creation of Delta State from the old Delta Province with Warri as capital. Rather than demonstrate leadership morality, Ibrahim Babangida took advantage of the confusion to appease his wife and in-laws, obviously due to oil benefits, by merging Anioma region, which was hitherto under Benin Province, with Delta Province, and also made Asaba, an obviously unsuitable location, as capital. The Anioma region should have rightly been made part of Edo State, not Delta. UPU should therefore build bridges across to its immediate neighbours to restore confidence.

It is therefore imperative that current roles of UPU should be redefined within these contexts, to reposition Urhobo for the emerging challenges of this 21st century.

Dr. Mike Owhoko, Lagos-based journalist and author, can be reached at www.mikeowhoko.com.
COVID-19 threat to be downgraded

BANGKOK: The National Communicable Disease Committee (NCDC) has decided to downgrade COVID-19 from a dangerous communicable disease to a communicable disease under surveillance from October as part of the countrys plan to enter a normal endemic period.

CoronavirusCOVID-19healthVaccine

By Bangkok Post

Tuesday 9 August 2022, 07:49AM

A boy waits his turn to receive a COVID-19 jab at the Central Westgate shopping mall in Nonthaburi on Aug 4, 2022. Photo: Pattarapong Chatpattarasill

The resolution was announced yesterday (Aug 8) by Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who chaired the NCDC meeting, reports the Bangkok Post.

COVID-19 was declared a dangerous communicable disease in late Feb 2020 by the NCDC which allowed health authorities to respond more quickly in trying to contain outbreaks.

Anutin said health authorities have now been able to bring COVID-19 under control despite it still spreading, adding that the diseases severity has also been mitigated.

This is why the NCDC has decided to downgrade the COVID-19 disease to a low level of concern from a dangerous communicable disease to a communicable disease under surveillance which will come into effect on Oct 1, Anutin said.

We have never faced a shortage of drugs, while many more people have learnt how to better understand how to live with the disease, he added.

Meanwhile, Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, director-general of the Department of Disease Control, said by designating COVID-19 as a communicable disease under surveillance, health authorities will no longer have the power to force patients or suspected sufferers to isolate themselves for 14 days.

Dr Opas still urged the public to comply with universal health measures, such as being fully vaccinated, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Deadly blaze pub owner gets bail

PATTAYA: The Pattaya Provincial Court on Monday (Aug 8) approved the conditional release on bail of the owner of Mountain B pub, where a fire claimed 15 lives and injured 38 other people early last Friday morning.

disastersdeathpolice

By Bangkok Post

Tuesday 9 August 2022, 09:16AM

Mountain B pub owner Pongsiri Panprasong, far right, is interrogated by police at Phlu Ta Luang police station on Saturday. Photo: Chaiyot Pupattanapong / Bangkok Post

Pongsiri Panprasong was released on a cash surety of B300,000, placed by his lawyer Anucha Wongsrisat, reports the Bangkok Post.

The 27-year-old pub owner must wear an electronic monitoring bracelet and not attempt to tamper with any evidence in the case. He has to report back to the court in 24 days, and twice more after that.

Police took him from Phu Ta Luang police station in Sattahip district of Chon Buri, where he has been held since Saturday, to the court in Pattaya, where they applied to detain him for another 12 days to allow further investigation. Police opposed bail.

The court approved the defence counsels application for his clients temporary release.

Mr Pongsri, who is known as Sia B, was charged with negligence causing deaths and operating a nightspot without permission. He confessed to both charges.

I am very sorry. I will do everything to ensure compensation. I will compensate everyone, he said from a police van before departing the Satthahip police station for the court.

The inferno at Mountain B on Friday morning killed 15 people and injured 38. There were about 100 patrons inside at the time. The blaze started in a roof above the stage, but the cause has not been determined.

Forensic police inspected the fire-gutted pub again on Monday, examining the damaged roof and charred building structure, a police spokesman said.
Phuket readies celebrations to honour Queen Sirikits 90th birthday

PHUKET: Phuket officials are preparing to host a range of official festivities to mark the 90th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, this Friday (Aug 12).

culture

By The Phuket News

Tuesday 9 August 2022, 01:03PM

Image: Public Relations Department

The auspicious day is also celebrated throughout the country as Mothers Day.

Phuket Vice Governor Amnuay Pinsuwan presided over a meeting held yesterday (Aug 8) to coordinate the official festivities.

After gathering at Phuket Provincial Hall, located at the new government administration complex on Tha Kraeng Rd in Phuket Town, at 7am, the first merit-making ceremony will begin at 7:30am.

The ceremony will be a special merit-making ceremony reserved for honouring royalty, and will be led by Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew.

People will gather at the Phuket Auditorium building, also located at the government complex, at 8:30am, for a multi-faith ceremony representing five religions that will begin at 9:09am.

In the evening, people will gather at the Phuket Auditorium at 5:30pm for an auspicious ceremony to honour Queen Sirikit that will begin at 6pm, with a special candle-lighting ceremony to be held at the auspicious time of 7:19pm.

Vice Governor Amnuay said officials were expected to organise the event with the highest of readiness. The meeting was held to delegate duties of each organisation attending the auspicious events, he explained.

Officials were to begin their rehearsals to ensure that the ceremonies were conducted accordingly.

This Friday (Aug 12) is a public holiday.

Most government offices on the island will be closed, including the Phuket Immigration Office, Employment Office, Land Transport Office and the islands three District Offices.

All main bank branches will be closed, except branches in shopping centres, which will remain open as normal.

There will be no ban on the sale of alcohol.
Phuket restaurant owner dismisses claims of price gouging tourists

PHUKET: The owner of Khon Boran restaurant on Ranong Rd in Phuket Town has dismissed claims of price gouging tourists after the claim was made in a review of the restaurant posted on TikTok in which the tourist, a Thai, was charged in total more than B10,000.

tourism

By Eakkapop Thongtub

Tuesday 9 August 2022, 05:49PM

The post on TikTok claimed the restaurant charged exorbitant prices, which are not shown on the menu. When you eat, you say its delicious, when you pay, its expensive," said the post.

The post recognised that the order placed was large and included special dishes, but maintained the prices were too high. We ordered crayfish, shrimp, fish, crab, scallops, which are seafood and we know that the price may be expensive. But its unbelievable how expensive it is, the post added.

In addition to dishes such as Gaeng Som Pla costing B500, the prices of dishes listed in the post included fried crayfish with garlic and stir-fried fresh chilli, 3kg for B3,000 as well as baked shrimp with glass noodles (without black pepper), Stir Fried Prawns with Tamarind Sauce B1,800 and a fillet of fish served fried, all costing B1,800 a serving.

Lesser dishes such as Fried Rice with Chicken + Fried Egg cost B220. However, a serving of plain rice cost B150.

The total price of the bill was given as B10,460.

The owner of the restaurant, Boonserit Ko Song Chongrakwittaya, dismissed the post, saying the prices reflected the quality of the dishes served, and the size of the servings, of which he claimed that some of the dishes suit parties of six to nine people.

I dont want to explain. Ive been selling for 40 years, until my head turned grey. Ive never met a customer like this, he said.

What should I do to meet such an idiot who wants to eat good things but doesnt dare to pay? Mr Boonserit told reporters, adding some disparaging remarks about the post.

Our dishes are not expensive, but you order expensive things. You want to eat signature dishes. If you want to eat good dishes, we sell dishes like this, he said,

I never think of taking advantage of customers. Let customers eat to be full and think according to the price. There are many people like this in society, but he never showed manners because he is an unkind person, Mr Boonserit continued.

I am an elderly person, how can I take advantage of customers? I set my prices according to the quality of my dishes

Of all the reviews posted on social media, I have never had customers say it was expensive. They say that its worth the price and delicious, Thats all Im going to say, Mr Boonserit concluded.

NO PRICES ON MENUS

However, Mr Boonserit gave no defence for the menu at his restaurant providing pictures of the dishes, but no prices.

The practice is deemed illegal by and often acted on by the Phuket Commercial Office.

Phuket Vice Governor Pichet Panapong has previously warned food vendors during the annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival against not clearly and openly displaying their prices.

Vendors found not displaying their prices face a penalty of a fine of up to B10,000 while those who charge customers prices not according to those displayed face a fine of up to B140,000 or even up to seven years in jail, or or both, depending on the severity of the offence, he explained.

Woranit Aphiratjirawong, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Commerce Office, earlier this year called on people to report any price gouging in their areas.

Any person who sees someone taking advantage of the situation to unfairly increase prices or who have not received a fair trade can report or make a complaint at the Phuket Provincial Commercial Office by calling 076-219586 or or the 24-hour hotline 1569, Ms Woranit said.

The Phuket Provincial Commerce Office in April investigated the Little Tiger restaurant beside Tri Trang Beach for allegedly charging foreigner prices.

The investigation, conducted literally within one day of the claims spreading, found no evidence of price gouging and cleared the Little Tiger of any wrongdoing.

So far the Phuket Provincial Commercial Office has not reported any action to investigate the claims against Mr Boonserits Kohn Boran restaurant in Phuket Town.
Rise in number of Thais seeking work in South Korea

BANGKOK: Outbound tour operators reported a spike in illegal job seekers who seek to use tour packages to South Korea as a guise before escaping from the group as soon as they arrive.



By Bangkok Post

Tuesday 9 August 2022, 11:30AM

Thai massage shops in Seouls Gangnam district. Photo: Kornchanok Raksaseri / Bangkok Post

The number of illegal job hunters already exceeded the number of actual tourists. Tour operators have been able to notice the pattern of fake travellers as they mostly come with a new passport without any travel record, said Charoen Wangananont, president of the Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), reports the Bangkok Post.

We have to reject those suspected customers from joining group tours to avoid problems with the authorities in South Korea, Mr Charoen added.

South Korean authorities denied entry to 417 out of 697 Thai travellers visiting Jeju from Tuesday to Friday last week.

Mr Charoen said Jeju island became the targeted destination for illegal migrant workers from Thailand as it is a special self-governing province which does not require the Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA) registration, which is a newly introduced system that Thai travellers have to use to apply before departure.

The island has also removed the requirement for a RT-PCR test on arrival to international visitors which means illegal workers can enter the country with lower travel costs.

When combined with currently very low airfares to South Korea at B6,000 to B7,000 amid high competition from low-cost carriers, these factors have lured more workers who seek better wages than in their home country, particularly amid a sluggish economy.

He said if related authorities in Jeju adopt the K-ETA for travellers like other gateways in South Korea, this problem might be partly solved.

The high minimum wage at around B45,000 per month always entices more workers to try their luck. We have seen this persistent problem since before COVID-19, but due to an influx of Thai travellers to South Korea of around 500,000 in 2019, the portion of illegal workers was smaller in comparison to general tourists, said Mr Charoen.

However, the number of illegal workers, known as little ghosts, might remain higher than tourists over upcoming months as regular tourists are concerned about the possibility of being rejected even if they do not have false intentions.

Moreover, the higher cost of travel including two RT-PCR tests before and after arriving at the destination and the complicated K-ETA system is also preventing tourists from taking outbound trips to South Korea.

TTAA is scheduled to meet the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) within two weeks to discuss tourism promotion and remaining obstacles.

He said TTAA will ask KTO to consider more simplified travel rules to facilitate travellers as seen from Tourism Malaysia which recently removed all Covid-related requirements, including pre-registration and a COVID test from Aug 1 after TTAA met its tourism minister last month.
Taiwan holds military drill as China accused of preparing invasion

TAIPEI: Taiwan held an artillery drill this morning (Aug 9) simulating a defence against an attack as its top diplomat accused Beijing of preparing to invade the island after days of massive Chinese war games.

Chinesemilitarypolitics

By AFP

Tuesday 9 August 2022, 12:06PM

Tourists look on as a Chinese military helicopter flies past Pingtan island, one of mainland Chinas closest point from Taiwan, in Fujian province on Aug 4. Photo: AFP

China launched its largest-ever air and sea exercises around Taiwan last week in a furious response to a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the highest-ranking American official to visit the self-ruled island in decades.

Taiwan lives under the constant threat of invasion by China, which views its neighbour as part of Chinese territory to be seized one day, by force if necessary.

China has used the drills and its military playbook to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan, Joseph Wu told a press conference in Taipei today, accusing Beijing of using Pelosis visit as a pretext for military action.

Chinas real intention is to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and entire region, he said.

Taipeis drill started in the southern county of Pingtung shortly after 6:40am Phuket time with the firing of target flares and artillery, ending just under an hour later, said Lou Woei-jye, spokesman for Taiwans Eighth Army Corps.

Soldiers fired from howitzers tucked into the coast, hidden from view of the road that leads to popular beach destination Kenting.

The drills, which will also take place Thursday, included the deployment of hundreds of troops and about 40 howitzers, the army said.

Yesterday, Lou told AFP the drills had been scheduled previously and were not in response to Chinas exercises.

The island routinely stages military drills simulating defence against a Chinese invasion, and last month practised repelling attacks from the sea in a joint interception operation as part of its largest annual exercises.

The anti-landing exercises come after China extended its own joint sea and air drills around Taiwan yesterday, but Washington said it did not expect an escalation from Beijing.

Im not worried, but Im concerned theyre moving as much as they are. But I dont think theyre going to do anything more than they are, Biden told reporters at Dover Air Force Base.

China has not confirmed if its drills in the Taiwan Strait will continue today.

But Taiwanese foreign minister Joseph Wu condemned Beijing for extending its military exercises around the island, accusing them of trying to control the Taiwan Strait and waters in the wider Asia-Pacific region.

It is conducting large-scale military exercises and missile launches, as well as cyber-attacks, a disinformation campaign and economic coercion in order to weaken public morale in Taiwan, he said.

Wu went on to thank Western allies, including the US after Pelosis visit, for standing up to China.

It also sends a clear message to the world that democracy will not bow to the intimidation of authoritarianism, he said.

Not worried

Taiwan has insisted that no Chinese warplanes or ships entered its territorial waters - within 12 nautical miles of land - during Beijings drills.

The Chinese military, however, released a video last week of an air force pilot filming the islands coastline and mountains from his cockpit, showing how close it had come to Taiwans shores.

Its ships and planes have also regularly crossed the median line - an unofficial demarcation between China and Taiwan that the former does not recognise - since drills began last week.

Ballistic missiles were fired over Taiwans capital, Taipei, during the exercises last week, according to Chinese state media.

Today, the Chinese military released more details about the anti-submarine drills it had conducted a day earlier around the island.

The Peoples Liberation Armys Eastern Theater command said the exercises were aimed at enhancing the ability of air and sea units to work together while hunting submarines.

It said maritime patrol aircraft, fighter jets, helicopters and a destroyer practiced locating and attacking targets in the waters off Taiwan.

The scale and intensity of Chinas drills - as well as its withdrawal from key talks on climate and defence - have triggered outrage in the United States and other democracies.

The drills have also shown how an increasingly emboldened Chinese military could carry out a gruelling blockade of the island, experts say.

But Beijing yesterday defended its behaviour as firm, forceful and appropriate to American provocation.

(We) are only issuing a warning to the perpetrators, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told a regular briefing, promising China would firmly smash the Taiwan authorities illusion of gaining independence through the US.

We urge the US to do some earnest reflection, and immediately correct its mistakes.
Montreal, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then off and on rain showers overnight. Low 27C. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

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Cloudy skies early, then off and on rain showers overnight. Low 18C. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
ALTON  The Upper Alton Baptist Church is holding a Pray for Our Schools event at Alton Middle School on Sunday, Aug. 14 at 2 p.m.

The event will begin with a responsive prayer all together, followed by a time for individuals and families to walk around and pray using a provided prayer guide, and then conclude with a final prayer all together again. The prayer guides include prompts to pray for teachers, administrators, support staff and bus drivers in addition to students.
John Badman

ALTON  Members of the U.S. Coast Guard could be seen returning to the public boat ramp at the Alton Marina Monday after conducting training on Alton Lake.

The Mississippi River is up a little, making the public ramp usable again. At times the low water level makes the ramp unusable.
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Angel Hope looked at the math test and felt lost. He had just graduated near the top of his high school class, winning scholarships from prestigious colleges. But on this test  a University of Wisconsin exam that measures what new students learned in high school  all he could do was guess.

It was like the disruption of the pandemic was catching up to him all at once.

Nearly a third of Hopes high school career was spent at home, in virtual classes that were hard to follow and easy to brush aside. Some days he skipped school to work extra hours at his job. Some days he played games with his brother and sister. Other days he just stayed in bed.

Algebra got little of his attention, but his teachers kept giving him good grades amid a school-wide push for leniency.

It was like school was optional. It wasn't a mandatory thing, said Hope, 18, of Milwaukee. I feel like I didnt really learn anything.

Across the country, there are countless others like him. Hundreds of thousands of recent graduates are heading to college this fall after spending more than half their high school careers dealing with the upheaval of a pandemic. They endured a jarring transition to online learning, the strains from teacher shortages and profound disruptions to their home lives. And many are believed to be significantly behind academically.

Colleges could see a surge in students unprepared for the demands of college-level work, education experts say. Starting a step behind can raise the risk of dropping out. And that can hurt everything from a person's long-term earnings to the health of the country's workforce.

The extent of the problem became apparent to Allison Wagner as she reviewed applications for All-In Milwaukee, a scholarship program that provides financial aid and college counseling to low-income students, including Hope.

Wagner, the groups executive director, saw startling numbers of students who were granted permission to spend half the school day working part-time jobs their senior year, often at fast food chains or groceries. And she saw more students than ever who didnt take math or science classes their senior year, often as a result of teacher shortages.

We have so many students who are going on to college academically malnourished, Wagner said. There is no way they are going to be academically prepared for the rigor of college.

Her group is boosting its tutoring budget and covering tuition for students in the program who take summer classes in math or science. Still, she fears the setbacks will force some students to take more than four years to graduate or, worse, drop out.

The stakes are tremendously high, she said.

Researchers say its clear that remote instruction caused learning setbacks, most sharply among Black and Hispanic students. For younger students, theres still hope that America's schools can accelerate the pace of instruction and close learning gaps. But for those who graduated in the last two years, experts fear many will struggle.

In anticipation of higher needs, colleges from New Jersey to California have been expanding bridge programs that provide summer classes, often for students from lower incomes or those who are the first in their families to attend college. Programs previously treated as orientation are taking on a harder academic edge, with a focus on math, science and study skills.

In Hanceville, Alabama, Wallace State Community College this year tapped state money to create its first summer bridge program as it braces for an influx of underprepared students. Students could take three weeks of accelerated lessons in math and English in a bid to avoid remedial classes.

The school hoped to bring up to 140 students to campus, but just 10 signed up.

Other states have used federal pandemic relief to help colleges build summer programs. In Kentucky, which gave colleges $3.5 million for the effort this year, officials called it a moral imperative.

We need these people to be our future workforce, and we need them to be successful, said Amanda Ellis, a vice president of Kentuckys Council on Postsecondary Education.

After the pandemic hit, Angel Hope worked up to 20 hours a week at his job with a local nonprofit aid group. He felt the time away from school was worth it for the money, especially when nobody was paying attention in the online classes. With his parents away at work, he often felt alone, shunning social media for days and eating ramen noodles for dinner.

I think isolating myself was a little bit of my coping mechanism, he said. I was kind of like, Keep it in a little bit and youll get through it eventually.

The pandemic led many high schoolers to disengage at a time when they would usually be preparing for college or careers, said Rey Saldana, president and CEO of Communities in Schools, a nonprofit group that places counselors in public schools in 26 states.

His group worked in some districts where hundreds of students simply didnt return after classrooms reopened. In Charlotte, North Carolina, the allure of steady paychecks kept many students away from school even after in-person classes resumed, said Shakaka Perry, a reengagement coordinator for Communities in Schools.

Perry and her colleagues spent last school year bringing students back to school and getting them ready for graduation. But when she thinks about whether they're ready for college, she has doubts: Its going to be an awakening.

A couple months after struggling through his math placement test, Hope headed to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, for six weeks of intense classes at a summer bridge program. He took a math class that covered the ground he missed in high school, and he's signed up to take calculus in the fall.

He also revived basic study skills that went dormant in high school. He started studying at the library. He got used to the rhythms of school, with assignments every day and tests every other week. He rediscovered what it's like to enjoy school.

Most importantly, he says it changed his mindset: Now he feels like hes there to learn, not just to get by.

After this, I definitely feel prepared for college, he said. If I didnt have this, I would be in a very bad place.

___

The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

___

Associated Press writer Carrie Antlfinger in Milwaukee contributed.

___

For more back-to-school coverage, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/back-to-school
Several countries in Europe dependent on Russian energy suffered another blow with confirmation Tuesday that oil shipments have stopped through a critical pipeline.

Russian state pipeline operator Transneft said it halted shipments through the southern branch of the Druzhba oil pipeline, which flows through Ukraine to the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary.

Transneft cited complications due to European Union sanctions for its action on Aug. 4, saying its payment to the company's Ukrainian counterpart was refused.

The northern leg of the Druzhba pipeline, which runs through Belarus to Poland and Germany, was unaffected, Transneft reported.

EU leaders agreed in May to embargo most Russian oil imports by the end of the year as part of the bloc's sanctions over Moscow's war in Ukraine.

The embargo covers Russian oil brought in by sea but allowed temporary Druzhba pipeline shipments to Hungary and certain other landlocked countries in central Europe.

Slovakias oil pipeline network operator, Transpetrol, and the refining company Slovnaft confirmed that Druzhba shipments to the nation had stopped. Slovakia receives almost all its oil through the Druzhba pipeline.

Slovnaft, which is owned by Hungarys MOL energy group, said its production has not been affected.

Slovnaft spokesperson Anton Molnar said the company and MOL were discussing with Russia and Ukraine an option for MOL, or Slovnaft, to pay the transit fees.

The following days will show if its another escalation of the energy war by Russia or a technical problem about payments, Czech Industry and Trade Minister Jozef Sikela said.

Slovakias economy minister, Richard Sulik, previously said his country has enough oil in its reserves for about 120 days.

Russia has also curtailed natural gas shipments to Europe after most countries refused to abide by Russian President Vladimir Putin's wartime order requiring payments in rubles instead of dollars or euros.

___

Follow AP's coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
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HARTFORD  A Tuesday morning rush hour crash on a rain slick highway left two people injured in Hartford.

Hartford firefighters were called to a two-car crash at about 6:30 a.m. Tuesday in the southbound lanes of Illinois 3 at Rand Avenue. Firefighters from Roxana and South Roxana assisted at the scene where a Jeep overturned and a Chevrolet Cavalier was badly damaged.

One driver suffered a minor arm injury while the other was treated in an Alton Memorial Ambulance. It was unclear if anyone was transported to the hospital.

Police from Hartford, Roxana, South Roxana and Wood River assisted at the scene; the southbound lanes were closed to all traffic for about an hour. Northbound lanes were open to normal traffic.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation.
The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorneys Office has charged a St. Louis woman following an incident in North St. Louis County over the weekend.

Lakia Fisher, 27, is charged with two counts of third-degree assault on a law enforcement officer, two counts of resisting arrest, one count of escape or attempt escape from custody, and one count of stealing.

According to the probable cause statement, officers responded to a report of an alleged stealing incident at the Walgreens at 9285 Halls Ferry in Jennings Aug. 6.

Fisher was found near the intersection of Halls Ferry Road and Sundown Drive with an electric trimmer, a sim card, and food items. Officers confirmed she had a warrant for arrest in St. Louis County for a felony.

As one of the officers on scene attempted to put Fisher in handcuffs, the probable cause statement says, she pulled away and attempted to sit down and bite the officer. Fisher was handcuffed and placed in the front seat of another officers patrol vehicle in a seatbelt.

The probable cause statement further explains as the officer was driving near the intersection of Jennings Station Road and Ada Wortley Avenue, Fisher reportedly removed her seatbelt, attempted to open the passenger door, and struck her head on the officers vehicle and computer.

Fisher allegedly had the officers shoulder pinned down and bit them on the arm. When additional officers arrived to assist, Fisher reportedly placed her foot on the passenger door to prevent them from entering.

Once officers had Fisher on the ground outside the patrol vehicle, according to the probable cause statement, she allegedly flailed around and banged her head on the ground to prevent officers from handcuffing her. She reportedly bit another officer on the arm, breaking the skin and leaving teeth marks. When paramedics arrived, Fisher was arrested.

She is being held on $50,000 cash-only bond.
WFO ALBANY Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

HEAT ADVISORY

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE

National Weather Service Albany NY

759 PM EDT Mon Aug 8 2022

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 10 AM TO 8 PM EDT

TUESDAY...

* WHAT...Heat index values in the mid 90s to lower 100s.

* WHERE...In Connecticut, Litchfield County. In Massachusetts,

Southern Berkshire County. In New York, Eastern Greene,

Columbia, Ulster, and Dutchess Counties.

* WHEN...From 10 AM to 8 PM EDT Tuesday.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat

illnesses to occur.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out

of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young

children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles

under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When

possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or

evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat

stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when

possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational

Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent

rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone

overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
Connecticut among primaries to watch on Tuesday

The Republican matchup in the Wisconsin gubernatorial race in Tuesday's primary elections features competing candidates endorsed by former President Donald Trump and his estranged vice president, Mike Pence
Infowars conspiracy theorist Alex Jones is facing a hefty price tag for his lies about the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre  $49.3 million in damages and counting  for claiming the nations deadliest school shooting was a hoax
Westerly, RI (02891)

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A few clouds. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 61F. Winds light and variable..

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AstraZeneca got a shot in the arm after it secured a key approval in the US for a cancer drug.

The pharma giant's Enhertu drug has become the first of its kind to be approved for use in patients with a form of breast cancer that accounts for over half of all cases diagnosed in the US, but which has limited options for treatment.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s approval followed the results of a Phase III clinical trial in February which showed Enhertu reduced the risk of disease progression or death by 50 per cent compared to existing chemotherapy options.

Boost: Analysts at broker Shore Capital said the drug had the potential to become a 'key growth driver' for AstraZeneca, claiming sales could reach 3.7billion by the end of 2026

Analysts at broker Shore Capital said the drug had the potential to become a 'key growth driver' for AstraZeneca, claiming sales could reach 3.7billion by the end of 2026.

But the FDA said Enhertu, developed with Japanese firm Daiichi Sankyo, should carry a warning about the risk of lung scarring and foetal toxicity, meaning it is not recommended for pregnant women.
PwC has been fined 2.5m for its audit of BT after a fraud at the telecom giant's Italian arm.

The accounting giant failed to properly challenge BT's 2017 results, the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) said, even after the discovery of the fraud a year earlier wiped billions off BT's value and prompted a criminal trial which is still ongoing.

Richard Hughes, PwC's audit engagement partner for BT, was also fined 60,000.

The penalties were reduced to 1.75m and 42,000 respectively for PwC's cooperation and admissions.

The wrongdoing at BT happened in 2015 and 2016. Prosecutors in Milan claimed BT Italia and a network of staff sought to inflate revenues and conceal losses of 250m in a sophisticated fraud.

When the scandal came to light in 2016, after a whistleblower alerted bosses, BT adjusted its financial statements by around 513m.

While the FRC did not say these results were misstated, or that the total sum of the adjustments was wrong, it did find that PwC had failed to apply the 'necessary professional scepticism' when checking the numbers. The paper-trail which showed how PwC approached its audit work was also inadequate, the FRC added.

Of the 23 originally accused of fraud at BT, a former manager of BT Italia has already been jailed for a year, while the ex-chief executive, Gianluca Cimini, died two years ago.

A spokesman for PwC apologised for not meeting the 'required standard', adding: 'We have made significant investment in strengthening audit quality in recent years, which has been recognised in improved quality inspection results. We remain committed to maintaining and building on this progress.'
Hundreds of millions of pounds of taxpayer money was squandered on 'zombie businesses' during the pandemic, it has been revealed.

The Future Fund, a 1.1billion portfolio set up by then-chancellor Rishi Sunak and managed by the state-owned British Business Bank, invested in 1,190 mainly early-stage companies during the pandemic.

But most are doomed to fail and will wind up as 'zombie businesses', minutes of the bank's audit meeting in June showed.

Doomed to fail: The Future Fund invested in 1,190 mainly early-stage companies during the pandemic

The Government did no independent due diligence on any of the businesses.

John O'Connell of the TaxPayers' Alliance said: 'These reports suggest taxpayers' cash could have been lumped onto lost causes.'

The Future Fund scheme matched pound-for-pound funds raised from outside investors, up to 5m.

A spokesman for the bank said that write-offs with this kind of investment are relatively high but that financial returns are buoyed by a handful of 'high performing outlier companies.' She said it was too early to gauge the overall performance of the Future Fund.
New role: Former chancellor Lord Hammond

Former chancellor Lord Hammond has been lined up to join the advisory board of a new 1billion fund that will invest in fast-growing UK fintech companies, Sky News reports.

The Fintech Growth Fund will seek to raise funds from institutional backers and will have no links to the Government.

Barclays, the London Stock Exchange and Mastercard are among the investors who have been approached to provide initial seed funding to launch the initiative.

Alastair Lukies, a long-serving government fintech ambassador, and Phil Vidler, a former Treasury official who heads the FinTech Alliance industry group, are other names linked to the fund.

A government-sponsored review of the UK fintech industry in 2021 urged the creation of pools of capital to fund tech businesses.
Will rates keep rising, are cash Isas a good option again and how do you know a challenger bank is legit? This is Money savings special podcast
More than 30 rebel and opposition factions signed a peace pact with Chads transitional authorities on Monday, agreeing to join broader talks after years of turmoil  though the most powerful insurgent group refused to take part.

Delegates meeting in Doha broke into applause after the rebels agreed to cease fire and participate in a national dialogue that Chads leader has said could pave the way to elections in the central African country.

But the Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT)  a Libya-based group that threatened to march on the capital last year  quickly rejected the deal, saying negotiators had not listened to its demands, including for the release of prisoners.

The rejection by FACT and at least eight other rebel factions cast a pall over celebrations of the agreement which was hammered out after months of talks in Qatars capital.

The interim military government is headed by Mahamat Idriss Deby, who seized power last year after his father  longtime ruler Idriss Deby  was killed while visiting troops fighting FACT and other rebels in the north.

Initially, the Transitional Military Council said it would oversee an 18-month transition to democratic rule, but it has shown little sign of organising elections as that deadline has neared.

FRATRICIDAL WARS

Mahamat Zene Cherif, the interim military governments foreign minister, said he believed the agreement would lead to sustainable peace.

Most of the armed groups signed this agreement and they will take part in the national dialogue. And this national, inclusive dialogue is a forum for all Chadian people, he told reporters in Doha.

He said the interim government was currently holding about 400 FACT prisoners and would not release them without guarantees that they would not rejoin the fighting.

At a roadside food stand in Chads capital NDjamena on Monday, some customers were reassured by fighters willingness to disarm, but others feared the pact would not stop the fighting.

We have witnessed several peace agreements that ended in fratricidal wars between the different signatory parties, patron Marius Golbe said over breakfast.

I will only believe in this Doha agreement when the armed groups lay down their arms and are demobilized.

The senior Deby spent much of his three decades in power fending off rebellions that sought his ouster. Rebels, including FACT, accused Deby and his allies of repressive rule, extrajudicial killings, and rigging elections  accusations he denied.

SOURCE- REUTERS
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COHOES  Following years of complaints about dust and potentially toxic fumes, the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development has given the go-ahead for residents to leave the Saratoga Sites subsidized apartment complex, which is next door to the Norlite aggregate plant and incinerator.

We were given the formal approval to proceed, Cohoes Housing Authority Chairman Mark Pascale said of the news that came last week from HUD.

Its a whole mix of emotions, said Joe Ritchie, who helped lead protests against the dust and emissions from Norlite. At 22, Ritchie, a recent college graduate, had lived at the site for 20 years, although he now resides in a different part of the city.

I know at the end of the day this is what has to happen, he said of plans to empty and then demolish the complex.

The citys Housing Authority owns the land, but HUD funds and controls much of the complex due to the federal Section 8 rent vouchers given to low-income residents.

About 52 apartments in the 70-unit apartment complex are still occupied, and Pascale said they hope to have everyone moved out by the end of the year.

After that, the city of Cohoes plans to purchase the property, which is assessed at $35,000. City officials want to demolish the apartments at an estimated cost of $600,000 and repurpose the spot into an industrial site.

Pascale said residents have for years complained about the dust from Norlites slag piles, as well as smoke from its incinerator stack. The company mines rock on-site, which is then crushed into construction and road-building aggregate.

The kiln they use is fired in part by industrial waste the company collects for a fee and incinerates.

Amid this history, worries about dust and emissions grew sharply in 2020 following revelations that Norlite was collecting PFAS chemicals from unused firefighting foam and, along with other substances like used solvents and paints, burning them in the incinerator.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are suspected carcinogens associated with a variety of health problems. The chemicals are ubiquitous, but recent awareness of their toxicity has heightened worries about them in the environment, either through groundwater or emissions.

Following news of the PFAS incineration, which was legal, Norlite stopped burning the substance and PFAS incineration has essentially been banned in New York.

But criticism of the dust from Norlite, which frequently coated cars, windows and the Saratoga Sites buildings, persisted.

The company has since put up screens and spray systems to control the dust.

"As a member of the Cohoes community for over 60 years, we support any decision made by the Housing Authority," said Norlite spokesman Rich Bamberger.

With the go-ahead to vacate Saratoga Sites, the focus will now turn to finding new housing for the families who remain there.

The Housing Authority has hired SAV Enterprises, a downstate firm that helps relocate people.

Were working with several landlords that we have relationships with, said Matt Ethier, executive director of the

Cohoes Housing Authority.

But not all of the residents are convinced the move will be easy or smooth.

"It's heartbreaking but for health reasons on my part it would be good," said Debbie Hill, who has lived in her three-bedroom unit at Saratoga Sites since 2010 when she had a fire in her home. Hill said she's made good friends at the complex, and she doesn't know how she'll find another three-bedroom place for the $219 she currently pays with a HUD subsidy. Hill, 66, lives on Social Security and suffers from COPD and other health problems.

She said she needs three bedrooms because her granddaughters and daughter sometimes stay with her and she has partial custody of her son who spends half the year there, too.

"In the long run it would have been easier if Norlite just would have moved," Hill said.

Others, including Ritchie, have long expressed frustration that people are having to uproot themselves because of the aggregate plant.

"People are confused as to why they have to move," he said.

And he is continuing, with an organized group, to push for the plant's closure, due to worries about the wider effects of emissions that come from there.

Hill said the dust and soot from the plant has been an issue that goes back decades. Before moving back in 2010, she said she grew up there, living with her parents and siblings there from 1969 to 1975.

"Our first winter there, we had black snow," she said.

Cohoes Mayor William Keeler said in a prepared statement that they are talking with federal and state officials and researching grants that would help pay for demolition and to make it shovel-ready. "As I have said since these discussions began," Keeler said, "Under the circumstances, the taxpayers of Cohoes should not have to bear the full cost of demolishing the property.



rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758 @RickKarlinTU
ALPHARETTA, Ga. (AP) _ Inseego Corp. (INSG) on Monday reported a loss of $12.4 million in its second quarter.

On a per-share basis, the Alpharetta, Georgia-based company said it had a loss of 12 cents. Losses, adjusted for stock option expense and non-recurring costs, came to 9 cents per share.

The results topped Wall Street expectations. The average estimate of three analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for a loss of 11 cents per share.

The holding company posted revenue of $61.9 million in the period, which did not meet Street forecasts. Four analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $62.6 million.

_____

This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on INSG at https://www.zacks.com/ap/INSG
An earlier version of this story, citing a State Police press release, said the state attorney general's office is investigating this case. It is not at this point.

DURHAM  A man fell to his death in the Greene County town of Durham after being pulled over by a state trooper late Monday night.

Christopher Stanton, 40, from the town of Hunter, was found lying at the bottom of a ravine after fleeing from a traffic stop. The trooper pulled over Stanton's pickup truck at the intersection of County Route 67 and O'Hara Road in Durham just after 11:30 p.m. for a vehicle and traffic violation, according to State Police.

Stanton ran from his vehicle into the woods on the west side of the road. The trooper followed and eventually found Stanton at the bottom of a steep rock embankment, police said.

State Police spokesman Trooper Steven Nevel said the chase was "very brief."

"(Stanton) ran into the wood line and that was it," he said.

The trooper heard moaning and was able to locate Stanton, who was conscious after the fall and during his rescue, talking to troopers and EMS personnel, according to Nevel. The trooper administered first aid until help arrived from the Greenville EMS, Greene County Paramedics and the Sheriff's Office, who were able to remove Stanton and take him to Albany Medical Center via helicopter, where he was pronounced dead from his injuries.

Stanton had multiple felony bench warrants, according to State Police.
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SCHENECTADY  A convicted felon who was 16 when authorities said he carried out the 2019 ambush killing of a father of five was arraigned Monday on charges of first-degree murder and other offenses amid tight security inside a Schenectady County courtroom.

But despite Mondays arraignment where Clifford Charles, now 20, appeared with his attorney in an open court with television cameras and journalists present, it remains to be seen if the criminal case going forward will remain in public view in county court or be moved to Family Court.

Appearing with his attorney, Charles, dressed in orange prison garb and a red knit hat, pleaded not guilty Monday to the top charge, as well as robbery and conspiracy in the death of Roscoe Foster.

Schenectady County Court Judge Matthew Sypniewski told the attorneys Monday that he was suspending the ordinary court timelines and that the attorneys could engage in some discovery of evidence, allowing Charles' attorney, Karen Crandall, to review what's been accumulated.

She did not return a message Monday afternoon.

In the well of the court, Charles was flanked by four court officers with two others in the gallery, one facing Charles supporters and another one facing Fosters friends and relatives. Another was stationed at the door.

State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision records indicate that Charles since June has been serving an 8-year prison sentence after being convicted as an adult on a charge of criminal possession of a weapon.

Authorities said that case stems from an arrest in 2020 related to a gun crime.

His date of birth in the state prison system is listed as April 2002, meaning Charles was 16 when Foster was slain.

It does not appear that the two men had previous dealings, authorities said.

Peter Willis, with the Schenectady County District Attorney's Office, said Monday that the shooter fired multiple shots while in the back seat of Fosters car at the intersection of Becker and Linden Streets around 1 a.m. on Jan. 25, 2019.

It was unclear how many times Foster was hit.

It was definitely an attempted robbery that obviously ended tragically for Foster, and that it appeared that Foster was going to sell drugs to either the person who shot and killed him or somebody else associated with that person when this happened, said Willis.

Wounded, Foster was taken to Ellis Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Family Court Judge Mark Blanchfield, the county's designated Youth Court judge, is expected to make a pivotal decision on the case soon.

Charles next scheduled appearance is scheduled for noon on Aug. 25.

When a person who is 16 or 17 is alleged to have committed a felony, theyre an adolescent offender under Raise the Age'  when they get arrested a judge makes a decision whether the case would end up in Family Court or end up in the youth part of county court, and unfortunately until a case is moved over to the youth part of county court, I dont know what information were allowed to release or not release, said Willis, who is handling the case for the Schenectady County District Attorneys Office, but was not in court Monday for the arraignment.

Assistant District Attorney Nicolaus McDonald sat in for him.

New Yorks Raise the Age legislation changed the age that a child can be prosecuted as an adult to 18 in criminal cases in New York. Prior to that, New York was one of two remaining states to hold 16-year-olds criminally responsible.

It furthermore states that 16- and 17-year-olds charged with felonies are considered adolescent offenders and their cases start out in the youth part of the Supreme or county courts.

If an adolescent offender's case is sent to Family Court, he or she will then be considered a juvenile delinquent, meaning the court case is sealed.

Police initially believed an arrest Foster's killing would happen quickly. But the case took years of work.

Authorities have said the murder probe languished because witnesses refused to cooperate with police, leaving police for a time with little more than grainy surveillance footage of some parts of the crime.

Frustrated relatives and friends went so far as to rent a billboard offering a $5,000 reward for any information that led to the arrest and conviction of the killer or killers. It was unclear Friday if anyone stood to reap the reward.

As Charles left the courtroom, he was greeted with a chorus of "I love you" from several female family members and friends on one side of the gallery.

Fosters relatives and friends left quietly and in a more somber mood.

One of them, Amanda Patterson, Fosters girlfriend and the mother of his now 7-year-old son, reflected later Monday on family members learning of the arrest last week from Schenectady Police, triggering a flood of emotions.

Foster, 38, has four other children.

To be honest with you, we were shocked that it was happening, we were relieved it was happening, obviously were sad, but at the same time happy that its coming to closure, she said, adding they had known from the day it happened about the suspected shooter who police were working to build up enough evidence to arrest.

She said the case is just all-around tragic.

We all truly believe that no ones winning in this situation, if hes convicted, they are losing a family member too, so were very open-minded to the fact that Roscoes already gone, so anything that happens for justice, prison time or what not, is not going to bring Roscoe back, she said.
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ALBANY - A judge unsealed an indictment Tuesday charging Andrew R. Gibson with felony bail-jumping, adding the potential of several more decades in prison to his pending sentence for an alcohol-fueled crash on County Route 401 that killed 55-year-old Lisa Sperry.

The 43-year-old Gibson stood beside his attorney, James Knox, as the indictment was unsealed by acting Supreme Court Justice Roger McDonough, who was sitting in for County Judge Andra Ackerman. She will preside over Knoxs next appearance on Aug. 17.

Gibson pleaded not guilty to first-degree bail jumping, a felony carrying up to seven years in prison, and second-degree bail-jumping, a felony carrying up to four years in prison. With at least two prior felony convictions, Gibson faces the possibility of being adjudicated as a persistent felony offender, which would subject him to a possible sentence of 15 years to life in prison.

Gibson was expected to be sentenced to 8 1/3 to 25 years under his guilty plea in November to aggravated vehicular homicide for the death of Sperry, a mother of four.

Gibson, while free on $160,000 bond, skipped his sentencing date Feb. 1. He was on the lam until last weekend when Rensselaer County sheriff's deputies arrested him and charged him with domestic violence following a chase in the woods.

Court documents show that last Saturday, Gibson allegedly called a 38-year-old woman in her home on Route 66 in the town of Nassau just after 5:30 a.m. Gibson allegedly told the woman he would put on the stove in her home and burn the place down. While in the residence, police said, Gibson pulled the woman by her hair, grabbed her throat, pushed her onto a bed and restrained her. They said he tried to choke her.

Gibson allegedly smashed window panes, picked up a chair and put a hole in the ceiling, then slammed the chair to the ground, breaking off a leg and crushing a metal dog bone container.

Police said they chased Gibson in the woods. They said he ignored their commands to stop and charged at them in a threatening manner. They charged Gibson with felony criminal mischief and misdemeanor charges of unlawful imprisonment, criminal obstruction of breathing, resisting arrest, obstruction of government administration and harassment.

Gibson is being held in the Rensselaer County jail.

Im glad that hes in custody  finally, said Richard Sweet, the brother-in-law of Laura Sweet, Sperrys sister, following Gibsons appearance before the judge. Lets see if they can keep him this time.

A graduate of Berne-Knox-Westerlo High School, Sperry worked as a waitress locally, cared for seniors and worked in the school cafeteria.

On May 16, 2021, Gibson was speeding north on Route 401 at more than mph in a 2012 black Audi A6 on Route 401, driving recklessly and intoxicated, when he went over a double-yellow line and collided with a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and oncoming Chrysler minivan. While free on $160,000 bond. Gibson skipped his sentencing, postponing his legal fate.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Mary Tanner-Richter and Collin DArcy.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi grand jury has declined to indict the white woman whose accusation set off the lynching of Black teenager Emmett Till nearly 70 years ago, most likely closing the case that shocked a nation and galvanized the modern civil rights movement.

After hearing more than seven hours of testimony from investigators and witnesses, a Leflore County grand jury last week determined there was insufficient evidence to indict Carolyn Bryant Donham on charges of kidnapping and manslaughter, Leflore County District Attorney Dewayne Richardson said in a news release Tuesday.

The decision comes despite recent revelations about an unserved arrest warrant and the 87-year-old Donhams unpublished memoir.

The Rev. Wheeler Parker, Jr., Emmett Tills cousin and the last living witness to Tills Aug. 28, 1955, abduction, said Tuesdays announcement is unfortunate, but predictable.

The prosecutor tried his best, and we appreciate his efforts, but he alone cannot undo hundreds of years of anti-Black systems that guaranteed those who killed Emmett Till would go unpunished, to this day, Parker said in a statement.

The fact remains that the people who abducted, tortured, and murdered Emmett did so in plain sight, and our American justice system was and continues to be set up in such a way that they could not be brought to justice for their heinous crimes.

Ollie Gordon, another one of Till's cousins, told The Associated Press that some justice had been served in the Till case, despite the grand jury's decision.

Justice is not always locking somebody up and throwing the keys away," Gordon said. Ms. Donham has not gone to jail. But in many ways, I dont think shes had a pleasant life. I think each day she wakes up, she has to face the atrocities that have come because of her actions.

A third cousin, Deborah Watts, who leads the Emmett Till Legacy Foundation, said the case is an example of the freedom afforded to white women to escape accountability for making false accusations against Black men.

She has still escaped any accountability in this case, Watts said. So the grand jury's decision is disappointing, but we're still going to be calling for justice for Emmett Till. It's not over.

An email and voicemail seeking comment from Donham's son Tom Bryant werent immediately returned Tuesday.

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In June, a group searching the basement of the Leflore County Courthouse discovered the unserved arrest warrant charging Donham, then-husband Roy Bryant and brother-in-law J.W. Milam in Tills abduction in 1955. While the men were arrested and acquitted on murder charges in Tills subsequent slaying, Donham, 21 at the time, was never taken into custody.

The 14-year-old Chicago boy was visiting relatives in Mississippi when he and some other children went to the store in the town of Money where Carolyn Bryant worked. Relatives told the AP that Till had whistled at the white woman, but denied that he touched her as shed claimed.

In an unpublished memoir obtained last month by the AP, Donham said Milam and her husband brought Till to her in the middle of the night for identification but that she tried to help the youth by denying it was him. She claimed that Till then volunteered that he was the one they were looking for.

Tills battered, disfigured body was found days later in a river, where it was weighted down with a heavy metal fan. The decision by his mother, Mamie Till Mobley, to open Tills casket for his funeral in Chicago demonstrated the horror of what had happened and added fuel to the civil rights movement.

Following their acquittal, Bryant and Milam admitted to the abduction and killing in an interview with Look magazine. They were not charged with a federal crime, and both have long since died.

In 2004, the U.S. Department of Justice Department opened an investigation of Tills killing after it received inquiries about whether charges could be brought against anyone still living.

Tills body was exhumed, in part to confirm it was he. A 2005 autopsy found that Till died of a gunshot wound to the head, and that had fractures in his wrist bones, skull and femur.

In 2006, the FBI launched its Cold Case Initiative in an effort to identify and investigate racially-motivated murders. Two years later, Congress passed the Emmett Till Unsolved Civil Rights Crime Act.

The Justice Department said the statute of limitations had run out on any potential federal crime, but the FBI worked with state investigators to determine if state charges could be brought. In February 2007, a Mississippi grand jury declined to indict anyone, and the Justice Department announced it was closing the case.

But federal officials announced last year that they were once again closing their investigation, saying there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that she lied to the FBI.

Timothy Tyson, the North Carolina historian who interviewed Donham for his 2017 book, The Blood of Emmett Till, said the newly rediscovered warrant did nothing to appreciably change the concrete evidence against her. But he said the renewed focus on the case should compel Americans to face the racial and economic disparities that still exist here.

The Till case will not go away because the racism and ruthless indifference that created it remain with us, Tyson wrote in an email Tuesday. We see generations of Black children struggle against these obstacles, and many die due to systemic racism that is every bit as lethal as a rope or a revolver.

For Gordon, the renewed attention on the Till case has been a reminder of the social progress it helped spark.

It helps the younger generations identify how far weve come with the many liberties and civil rights that weve gained since Emmetts death, Gordon said. "As his mother would say, his death was not in vain.

___

Breed reported from Raleigh, North Carolina.

Michael Goldberg is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/mikergoldberg.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Tennessee-based HCA Healthcare Inc. says it will give up to $400,000 to assist with relief to those affected by flooding in eastern Kentucky.

The company said Monday it will contribute $100,000 to the American Red Cross, $100,000 to the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund, up to $50,000 in HCA Healthcare direct relief grants to Galen College of Nursing students with disaster needs, at least $100,000 through in-kind donations to meet critical community needs and up to $50,000 in colleague matching gifts.
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Local television anchor and writer John Gray wrote a book about the blind and deaf Australian shepherd, Keller, that he and his wife adopted five years ago, recently holding a fundraiser in the pup's honor that raised tens of thousands of dollars for the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society.

On Monday, Gray posted a tribute to Keller after his companion died earlier in the day.

"To say Courtney and I are devastated wouldn't come close to describing the hole in our heart right now," Gray posted on his "John Gray Writer" Facebook page.

"We adopted Keller 5 years ago this week, after someone abandoned him and left him to die. From the moment we met him, he changed both of us. He made us better people."

Gray said Keller, a "double merle" Australian shepherd, was prone to seizures and had more than 50 in his short life. It was a series of devastating seizures that took his life Monday morning.

There were more than 10,000 comments of condolence on Gray's tribute post by Tuesday morning.

In 2018, Gray wrote a book called "Keller's Heart" and appeared at book stores across the Capital Region discussing it.

"Keller was sent by God to both of us for a reason. So, I could share him with all of you," Gray wrote. He dedicated his next soon-to-be released book to Keller. "He has inspired so many children with his story. He raised awareness about special needs animals and raised lots of money to save others just like him."

Gray said they rushed Keller to the emergency vet Monday morning, only six minutes from their home, but it was too late.

"I rested my face on his heart, Keller's Heart, and said, 'Your mission here is complete. Thank you for being our special boy.' "
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SCHENECTADY  Hes heavily tattooed and muscled, well versed in philosophy and has a background in public education and state policymaking.

And the self-avowed metalhead can recall thrash bands like Slayer and Megadeth with encyclopedic fluency.

Meet Matt Nelligan, the new chairman of the Schenectady Republican Committee, a leader tasked with resurrecting the once-moribund political operation into a force that aims to claw back power in an overwhelmingly Democratic city next year.

Were looking to build a party that can win, Nelligan said, and also one that reflects the nature of the community.

Schenectady Republicans are reenergized and have reentered the public fray this year with a series of attention-grabbing campaigns and policy proposals, including pushing for the city school district to hire school resource officers  support that netted them a school board seat  and going to war with activists and the citys power apparatus over the Black Lives Matter art emblazoned in front of City Hall.

Yet despite the bomb-throwing tactics, Nelligan insists the new crop of leaders are moderate and focused on crafting sensible, bipartisan policy solutions designed to address what they said are long-broiling problems in the city that leaders have been unable to fix  not wedge issues that seek to hook into the national discourse.

Im a raging moderate, Nelligan said. I want government to function and it doesnt function here.

Nelligan said he got involved in city politics due to one of the citys most vexing issues: Reckless driving, an issue that got worse, he said, during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic when he watched cars fly by his Central Parkway home. The citys problem-scarred sidewalk replacement program, too, was also a catalyst.

Calls to City Hall to address these problems, he said, went unreturned.

Nelligan, 49, was also sick of the citys sluggishness in clearing some neighborhoods following winter storms, leaving he and his block unable to go to work for days. Utilizing the National Guard for snow removal, he said, was simply unacceptable.

That really frustrated me, Nelligan said, and these things forced me to get involved.

He recalled a conversation with a neighbor who told him, This is how things have always been. You just have to live with it.

That didnt stick with the former public school teacher  he put in stints at both Amsterdam High and Guilderland High before going to work for the state Senate as a regional coordinator for western New York  and the fuse was lit from there.

When Republicans met at Katie O'Byrnes in February, they virtually had to reconstitute the party, the operation of which was in shambles. Voter lists were outdated, he said, and the party infrastructure was nonexistent.

We rebuilt the committee from that night, Nelligan said.

The party is also calling for steep investments in electric vehicle charging infrastructure and renewable energy on every viable city building and free space.

"This is New York," Nelligan said, who was quick to point out that he voted against former President Donald J. Trump twice. This is not Alabama and were going to win when were moderate and pragmatic.

Last year was a contentious one for the all-Democratic City Council, which was mired in race-fueled election-related infighting for months, creating a culture of toxicity that some political observers say stalled out government operations for a year.

Despite the acrimony, the two Republican candidates failed to pick up a pair of seats.

Nelligan said Democrats continue to be divided as they face pressure from the progressive left flank of the party, as well as the Working Families Party, which backed several successful candidates last November. And with a newly constituted Republican Party, he believes lawmakers will soon be feeling credible pressure from the right, as well.

Theres no question that City Council is plagued by gridlock, Nelligan said.

Republicans have also put forward proposals to reform government operations, including 12-year term limits for both the mayor and City Council, as well as creating a ward system for City Council and weighing a city manager form of government that would reduce the mayors job to a part-time role.

While next years elections are 15 months away, Nelligan said the GOP is aiming to run a full slate of candidates against each City Council member as well as city Mayor Gary McCarthy, who will be up for reelection if he decides to seek a fourth four-year term.

Nelligan acknowledges the party is facing a steep voter enrollment disadvantage in a city where Democrats outnumber Republicans by nearly 4-1. But he believes a crop of strong candidates will return them to power, citing McCarthys thin 2011 victory a decade ago against former Union College president and Alliance Party founder Roger Hull.

The citys last non-Democrat City Council member, independent Vince Riggi, was defeated in 2019.

Diversity is important to the party, he said, and theyve already started to build what he said is a multicultural coalition that includes members of the citys Guyanese, Black and LGBTQ+ communities.

Party officials also want to repeat the city's Guyanese success story by establishing ties with the Hasidic and Orthodox Jewish communities who may be seeking to leave New York City for a better quality of life.

Nelligan also cited the partys bolstered operational firepower, which helped elect their two party-backed school board candidates in May through a combination of social media advertising, robocalls and consistent messaging.

Working Families Party County Committee Co-Chair Chad Putman acknowledged Republicans fared relatively well in last year's election, picking up several seats on the County Legislature despite a leadership change in the top ranks of the party. The GOP also took control of Rotterdam town government.

City Democratic Committee Chairman Tom Bellick didnt return a call seeking comment on the GOP's efforts in Schenectady.

Republicans would have to garner support from large portions of registered Democrats to make inroads to City Council or defeat McCarthy  including those potentially backed by the Conservative Party, which tends to cross-endorse Democrats in city elections.

Putman acknowledged the Working Families Party is pushing its trio of endorsed lawmakers to be more progressive, but said Democratic leadership remains overall moderate.

For Republicans to get a foothold, he said, is "profoundly optimistic and it fails to really look at the facts of registered voters in the city of Schenectady, Putnam said, pointing at the voter registration edge. I dont see the city getting more Republican or conservative. I think when you look at the national platform and whats on the news, I think that terrifies people what (Republicans) are trying to represent.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP)  Rhode Islanders who flocked to a summer hotspot on Monday for the Victory Day holiday got into brawls at a resort and on a ferry ride home, leading to eight arrests.

The fighting started at a beach resort on Block Island that was hosting a reggae festival. It continued on a ferry that was added to the schedule late in the day due to overcrowding on the island.

Rhode Island State Police say state troopers, as well as officers from three towns responded to the ferry shortly after 9:30 p.m.

Police arriving by boat leapt aboard, searching the ferry while holding their guns.

They arrested seven people, who are all from the Rhode Island cities of Providence and Pawtucket, ranging in age from 20 to 37. Five were charged with disorderly conduct, one was charged with obstructing an officer and one faces a weapons charge. They were arraigned and released. The ferry was heading to the Port of Galilee in Narragansett when the fighting broke out.

Two people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

State Police had six troopers on the island during the day to help the local police department in anticipation of large crowds at Ballards Beach Resort. There was a disturbance at the resort before the ferry brawl and one person was arrested there for fighting, police said. He was also arraigned on a disorderly conduct charge and released.

The state is the only one in the nation that still observes the Victory Day holiday, which commemorates Japans surrender ending World War II in August 1945.
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SARATOGA SPRINGS  A controversial $25,000 deductible payment to the city's insurer has caused discord among City Council members and threatened to stop payment on $1.16 million to city vendors, a move that forced officials to meet on Saturday morning to resolve the issues.

The problem was exposed in a heated City Council meeting on Aug. 2 when Mayor Ron Kim said the $25,000 payment "was purposely hid" in the citys 80-page list of vendor disbursements, raising his concerns again about Commissioner of Accounts Dillon Morans involvement in a $100,000 insurance payout to the citys former engineer, who was also a political ally of Moran.

Kim demanded the removal of the $25,000 payment to Traveler's Insurance and on Saturday said he suspected it was concealed on the list because the settlement engineer Tim Wales received was never approved by the City Council.

We are being asked to pay $25,000  on a settlement that was not known to us," Kim said.

Moran said he didnt insert the payment, but rather city Director of Risk and Safety Marilyn Rivers included it on page 52 amid the noncontroversial items like brooms, portable toilets and police uniforms. Moran said the deductible was agreed upon after the city settled a federal lawsuit with engineer Tim Wales, who alleged the city fired him in 2019 after he supported Moran for Commissioner of the Department of Public Works instead of his boss, the late Anthony Skip Scirocco.

The settlement also became a point of contention earlier this year after Moran was named as a witness in Wales' complaint and Moran was present at an April 1 settlement conference. The deal was brokered by attorney John Aspland, representing Saratoga Springs, and Wales' attorney Kevin Laurilliard.

From the beginning of his term, he was working to try to resolve this case behind the scenes, alleged Kim who, like Moran, is a Democrat. Whether or not he (put the payment on the consent agenda) on purpose, I dont know, but its very concerning. Basically, to be blunt, hes not telling the truth. Its unfortunate.

On Monday, Moran said the whole controversy, which forced the City Council to meet in an emergency meeting on Saturday to pay its bills, is absurd. Hes accusing Kim of lying to try to make me look bad. He also said he had nothing to do with the settlement.

Its a lie, a flat out lie, Moran said. This is defamation with malice. Im an honest person, I do not lie. I am angered to hear the suggestion.

The settlement is an offshoot of more than three years of legal battles launched by Wales against the city. It started in February 2019 when Wales said he would support Moran for DPW Commissioner. In March 2019, Wales was suspended from his job. At the time, he alleged it was because he said he supported Moran. Then in November 2019, Wales was fired.

Wales filed a lawsuit alleging his firing was politically motivated. But the U.S. District Court, Northern District of New York, rejected that argument. So did the state Appellate Division's Third Judicial Department upheld the decision saying Wales' 2019 firing was justified.

In July, U.S. District Judge Mae A. D'Agostino authorized $100,000 of insurance funds to be paid to Wales in a federal lawsuit, after two of the city's witnesses, including Scirocco, had died.

On Monday, Wales said he received his payment, but after attorney fees and taxes, he said its only pocket change. He also said he has gotten another job and lamented he lost a city pension, something he was working toward after 8.5 years with the city.

I just want to move on, Wales said. I dont want to get into finger-pointing. That is (City Councils) circus.

Kim said that the city will have to look into the Wales' settlement further.

After a contentious discussion at the City Council table, officials unanimously removed the $25,000 insurance deductible payment from the list. Moran was then supposed to then sign the paperwork for vendor payments and forward it to Commissioner of Finance Minita Sanghvi to cut the checks. However, Moran ripped up the paperwork that he was supposed to sign, thus stalling the payment process. That forced the City Council to meet on Saturday to allow the mayor to sign the paperwork.

Ron and the rest of the City Council was ensuring our vendors got paid, Sanghvi said.

Moran disputes that as well, saying he did send the paperwork to Sanghvi. And he doesnt know why the City Council had to meet again.

However, in a text message, Sanghvi explained that she and Moran only agreed Friday to pay one vendor on the list. The Saturday meeting was necessary, she said, as Moran did not send over the remaining approvals.

At Saturdays meeting, Moran voted not to pay the other vendors. However, after the meeting, he ended up signing a taped up version of the list he'd torn up on Tuesday.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP)  Gov. Tim Walz took advantage of the chance to vote early in Tuesday's primary, then joined a fellow Democrat, Secretary of State Steve Simon, on Monday to defend the integrity of Minnesota's election system.

Walz, accompanied by his wife, Gwen, and his daughter, Hope, went to the Ramsey County elections office to fill out his ballot and feed it into the tabulator. The incumbent's 21-year-old daughter said it was her first chance to vote for her father because she was too young by two months when he first ran for governor in 2018.

Minnesota has the fairest, the most secure and the largest-turnout elections in America," Walz told reporters afterward to counter attempts by Republicans to cast doubt on the validity of the process and the outcome of the 2020 elections. He later added, "The outrageous statements around our elections are undermining our democracy.

Walz singled out a comment by Simon's presumptive Republican challenger, Kim Crockett, about a state court ruling that made it easier for people with disabilities or whose English proficiency was limited to get help filling out a ballot. In a 2020 interview on KTLK-AM, resurfaced by the Huffington Post last week, she said the ruling raises the question, um, should they be voting? We can talk about that another time.

Crockett said her comments were completely taken out of context. She tweeted Saturday that she was talking about protecting vulnerable voters from those who might try to influence their votes under the guise of providing assistance.

Walz called her remarks un-American. Walz also ripped his own likely GOP challenger, Dr. Scott Jensen, for suggesting Simon should be jailed for rule changes he made to facilitate voting from home amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jensen made his remarks at a party meeting in the spring, saying Simon had gotten away with too much for too long, but he provided no evidence that Simon had done anything illegal. Courts have repeatedly upheld the rule changes.

Simon criticized Crockett for pushing for limits on absentee voting to make in-person voting the norm. He said absentee voting was the very system that saved the 2020 election. Without it things would have gone much, much worse. With it, we enabled Minnesotans not to have to choose between their health and their right to vote.

Simon said 58% of Minnesotans voted by absentee ballot in 2020, before COVID-19 vaccines became available. He said the pace of early voting has been much slower this time around. Simon said he plans vote in person on Tuesday.

Primary turnout is hard to predict, Simon said, declining to give an estimate for Tuesday. But he noted that there are some hot races on the ballot to draw voter interest, including in southern Minnesota's 1st Congressional District, where there's both a special general election to fill the remaining months of the term of the late U.S. Rep. Jim Hagedorn, and simultaneous Republican and Democratic primaries to set the field for the November ballot to fill Hagedorn's seat in the next Congress.

Other closely watched races include the statewide Republican primary to choose an opponent for Democratic Attorney General Keith Ellison. The GOP-endorsed candidate, Jim Schultz, is trying to fend off a challenge from the right by Doug Wardlow, general counsel at MyPillow and an ally of its founder, Mike Lindell, a leading booster of false claims that the 2020 election was stolen from Donald Trump.

Among Democrats, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar, one of the biggest national stars of the left, is facing a challenge from the center in her Minneapolis-based district. Former Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels has made rising crime a key issue against Omar, a vocal supporter of the defund the police movement. Liberal U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum faces a challenge from her left by community activist Amane Badhasso in her St. Paul-area district.
Boycotts are as American as the Boston Tea Party. History remembers the Montgomery bus boycott for civil rights; the grape boycott in support of farmworkers; the anti-apartheid calls for divestment from South Africa.

Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens was what we would now describe as an extinct political species: a liberal Republican. In his memoir, "The Making of Justice," Stevens remembers with pride his 1982 precedent-setting opinion in the landmark boycott case from Claiborne County, Miss.

The Claiborne County branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People boycotted local white merchants when its anti-segregation, social justice agenda was rejected. A unanimous U.S. Supreme Court overturned numerous Mississippi court rulings to affirm the constitutional right of all citizens to organize boycotts to achieve political, economic and social change. Not just activities in support of boycotts, but boycotts themselves were to be protected under the First and Fourteenth Amendments.

However, a recent appeals court ruling on a case from Arkansas threatens to upset precedent and take away citizens right to boycott.

In 2017, the eschatologically motivated Razorback Legislature, dominated by Republicans, passed a law mandating that state agencies not do business with contractors who refused to pledge in writing that they wont boycott Israel.

Alan Leveritt may be a stubborn old man. He is founder and publisher of the Arkansas Times newspaper. He has no position on the Israel-Palestine conflict and no desire to boycott Israel. But he refused to sign the pledge because, in his own words, We dont take political positions in return for advertising. He depended on ads from a branch of the University of Arkansas as revenue.

He believes hed be signing away his right to freedom of conscience as a journalist if he signed and be unworthy of the protections granted journalists under the First Amendment. So, he sued to overturn the law. He is represented by the American Civil Liberties Union.

After a three-judge Appeals Court panel reversed the District Court to support his claim that the state law imposes a condition on contractors like the newspaper that implicates their First Amendment rights, the full Eighth Circuit Appeals Court on June 22 ruled against Leveritt and upheld the anti-boycott law.

In the opinion of Judge Jonathan Kobes, a Trump nominee, Claiborne protections apply only to speech accompanying a boycott, not the boycott itself. Furthermore, he ruled, economic boycott decisions are nonexpressive conduct unprotected by the Constitution.

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In a masterful dissent, Judge Jane Kelly noted that the Arkansas anti-boycott law, as written, instructs the state to look at the newspapers language and its association with others to determine whether the paper is participating in a boycott. This limits what the newspaper may say or do to support a boycott if it so wishes. This undermines the nice distinction the majority makes between expressive and nonexpressive speech.

Meanwhile, the Texas Legislature has passed similar anti-boycott legislation, which outlaws state business with contractors who refuse to sign anti-boycott language in support of fossil fuel firms or gun manufacturers.

Leveritt and the ACLU vow to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. The high court might take the case if there is a conflicting ruling from another circuit appeals court or the Supreme Court decides the constitutional issues involved are important enough for the court to intervene.

Im buoyed by the consensus of First Amendment scholars who wrote amicus briefs supporting Leveritts courageous, if controversial, position, despite the outcome so far.



Gene Damm lives in Albany.
Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema (C) addresses the commissioning ceremony of the Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project in Kafue, Lusaka Province, Zambia, on July 29, 2022. Zambia on Friday commissioned a project financed by China aimed at improving water supply and sanitation in Lusaka, the Zambian capital. The 150 million U.S. dollars phase-one Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project financed by the Export-Import Bank of China (China Exim Bank) and constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) would ensure that about 500,000 people in the Zambian capital have access to clean and safe water as well as proper sanitation. (Xinhua/Martin Mbangweta)

KAFUE, Zambia, July 29 (Xinhua) -- Zambia on Friday commissioned a project financed by China aimed at improving water supply and sanitation in Lusaka, the Zambian capital.

The 150 million U.S. dollars phase-one Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project financed by the Export-Import Bank of China (China Exim Bank) and constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) would ensure that about 500,000 people in the Zambian capital have access to clean and safe water as well as proper sanitation.

It involved the construction of an intake structure, treatment plant, booster station and transmission lines to deliver a total of 50,000 cubic meters of water per day.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by President Hakainde Hichilema and Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Du Xiaohui, as well as officials from the Chinese firm.

The Chinese Ambassador commended the Chinese firm and other stakeholders for successfully completing the project which will go a long way in improving access to safe and clean drinking water for residents of the Zambian capital, saying the project was meant to solve the problem that the original water supply system faced of not meeting the demand for water in the capital.

According to him, the water supply capacity of the project will provide people in the capital with sufficient, healthy and clean water, and it has also contributed to the creation of local employment and enhanced capacity building.

He said nearly 1,000 local people were employed and trained at the peak of the construction of the project.

Hichilema praised China for financing the construction of the water plant, saying it symbolizes China's sincerity in pursuit of the greater good and shared interest in improving the quality of life of people.

The Zambian president also urged water utility companies in the country to find more innovative ways of efficiently and effectively using water in order to avoid wastage in view of the challenges brought by climate change.

"For example, once the water has been used in our households, we should find ways to harness it again for other uses such as agriculture purposes," he said.

Hichilema, who is also the Global Cholera Control Champion, said he takes seriously the levels of water and sanitation resources as this poses a threat and enables the outbreak of waterborne diseases. He pledged that his government would continue investing in the water sector in order to ensure equitable access to clean and safe drinking people for all as proper sanitation.

Eric Ding, the general manager of the CCECC Zambia, thanked the Zambian government and the local people for their support during the construction period.

He, however, said more financing will be required to undertake the second phase of the project to increase the water supply to the Zambian capital due to the increased population which requires more water. 

Photo taken on July 29, 2022 shows the interior of the Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project in Kafue, Lusaka Province, Zambia. Zambia on Friday commissioned a project financed by China aimed at improving water supply and sanitation in Lusaka, the Zambian capital. The 150 million U.S. dollars phase-one Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project financed by the Export-Import Bank of China (China Exim Bank) and constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) would ensure that about 500,000 people in the Zambian capital have access to clean and safe water as well as proper sanitation. (Xinhua/Martin Mbangweta)

Photo taken on July 29, 2022 shows a building of the Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project in Kafue, Lusaka Province, Zambia. Zambia on Friday commissioned a project financed by China aimed at improving water supply and sanitation in Lusaka, the Zambian capital. The 150 million U.S. dollars phase-one Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project financed by the Export-Import Bank of China (China Exim Bank) and constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) would ensure that about 500,000 people in the Zambian capital have access to clean and safe water as well as proper sanitation. (Xinhua/Martin Mbangweta)

Zambian president Hakainde Hichilema (3rd R) tours the Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project in Kafue, Lusaka Province, Zambia, on July 29, 2022. Zambia on Friday commissioned a project financed by China aimed at improving water supply and sanitation in Lusaka, the Zambian capital. The 150 million U.S. dollars phase-one Kafue Bulk Water Supply Project financed by the Export-Import Bank of China (China Exim Bank) and constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) would ensure that about 500,000 people in the Zambian capital have access to clean and safe water as well as proper sanitation. (Xinhua/Martin Mbangweta)
In this regard, Mrs. Boluarte pointed out that confrontations between both branches of government serve no purpose and are unnecessary.

"This year the President has turned his cheek, but now he will extend his hand to work in unity," the government official told reporters.

She also questioned Congressman Wilson Soto's report that recommends disqualifying President Castillo for five years before the Subcommittee on Constitutional Accusations, noting that it is an "exaggeration" and there is no constitutional basis for it.

Mrs. Boluarte, who also serves as Minister of Development and Social Inclusion , reiterated that the Head of State must comply with a constitutional mandate, in relation to a possible impeachment. Nevertheless, a few legislators promote this.
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This article was published in partnership with New York Focus.

NIAGARA  Amazon is expected to clear a final hurdle this week to receive more than $124 million in tax breaks to build a warehouse in the town of Niagara in western New York, among the largest subsidies the company will have ever received.

The tax breaks are part of an incentive package that the Niagara County Industrial Development Agency (IDA), tasked with promoting industrial development in the region, is offering Amazon to build a $550 million warehouse and create 300 temporary construction jobs and over 1,000 permanent warehouse jobs.

Those taxpayer dollars would in large part be redirected from the revenue stream for the Niagara Wheatfield Central School District, which receives nearly half of its revenue from local property taxes.

Critics warn that the facility could cost more jobs in the community than it would create, as Amazon warehouses have done elsewhere by adversely affecting local retail industries, and would offer a lower wage than the vast majority of existing jobs in Niagara County.

"A deal that doesnt at least require one of the largest, richest corporations in the world to pay for community benefits, livable wages, and to mitigate clear environmental impacts, is no deal at all," a coalition of labor unions and corporate watchdogs wrote in a letter to the Niagara County Industrial Development Authority, signed by the independent Amazon Labor Union, the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) Local 153, and five state and local corporate watchdog groups.

The Niagara Building Trades Council is supporting the deal despite the lack of a collective bargaining agreement, which the labor groups requested but Amazon was unwilling to provide, council president Paul Brown told New York Focus. The project will create "a lot of jobs for a lot of people," Brown said.

Local officials have been positioning Niagara for the warehouse for two years, mostly in secret. In recent months, four county and municipal boards have all unanimously approved the deal. But the public has had a short window to weigh in, and some key stakeholders  including the school district and the state teachers union  have remained on the sidelines.

Two years ago, Amazon opened a massive distribution warehouse in Schodack that also received more than $10 million in state and local tax breaks.



Under a property tax deal proposed by the county during the projects development stages, the Amazon parcel was expected to receive a fixed $55 million property assessment for the first 10 years, upon which the tax breaks would be formulated.

'Project Fifi'

In August 2020, Amazon withdrew a proposal to build a warehouse in the town of Grand Island, near Buffalo, in the face of massive public opposition centering on issues like traffic and pollution.

Niagara officials reached out to pitch their town as a building site after the Grand Island project was pulled, according to both Amazon and the developer.

But the fact that the town was attempting to bring an Amazon warehouse was not made public until March.

Critics say that was by design.

"There has been very noticeable pushback to Amazon at the local level across the country recently," said Pat Garofalo, director of state and local policy at the American Economic Liberties Project, one of the groups that signed the letter. "Amazon is increasingly turning to secrecy as a tool to get these projects approved by local governments."

A proposal to build a $550 million warehouse in Niagara was developed under the name "Project Fifi," and Amazons identity as the developer was revealed just weeks before the Niagara County Planning Board approved the project.

In the ensuing months, components of the project were also approved by the town Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, and the Town Board  all unanimously.

In July, all eight members of the IDA board  who are appointed by the Niagara County Legislature and not term-limited  who were present at the meeting voted in favor of a resolution to consider Amazons bid for tax incentives (one member was absent) and signaled they would likely approve it.

The board announced a public hearing on the project on Aug. 3, at which point the project faced its first real pushback.

Susan Langdon, the executive director of the Niagara County IDA, opened the hearing by arguing that the countys expenditure would pay for itself many times over. "Based upon our cost benefit analysis program, for every $1 in tax incentives provided to Amazon, the local community receives $11 in benefit. The approximately $124 million in incentives will generate approximately $1.3 billion in local benefit," she said.

Langdon was referring to the cost-benefit analysis the IDA conducted using a calculator devised by the consulting firm MRB, which has contracts with state IDAs to provide such analyses for projects. (MRB had also been hired by Amazons developer in Grand island to write a report assessing the economic impacts of the proposed warehouse project for the Grand Island Town Board.)

That analysis attributes $1.3 billion in benefits to private individuals in the form of wages from Amazon, $57.7 million to the town from property and sales taxes, and $69.6 million to the state from income and sales taxes.

The unions and watchdog groups argued that analysis doesnt take into account "the very knowable downsides." Their letter cites a 2018 report from the Economic Policy Institute which found that when a new Amazon warehouse opens, overall employment in the county does not increase  suggesting that the jobs created in the warehouse and storage sector are offset by losses in other industries.

It also asserts that Amazon warehouses have suppressed wages for local retail workers and that the $15-an-hour wage Amazon would pay at its Niagara warehouse is below the living wage for the region.

Michael DNolo, who works on the calculator as MRBs director of economic development services, told New York Focus that these issues were beyond the scope of the analysis required for the IDA.

"There are clearly jobs that are shifting from brick and mortar to e-commerce, and its very well-documented. That doesnt change whether or not this project gets an IDA inducement, its happening already," DNolo said.

'A Lot of Work For My Members'

At the brief public meeting last week, people raised concerns about traffic, low wages, and high job turnover.

Some of the few voices at the meeting in favor of the project were members of the locals for the insulators and electricians union.

"It's going to be a lot of work for my members, and there will be good-paying jobs with benefits," said John Scherrer, business manager for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 237.

Asked why the union is supporting a project without a collective bargaining agreement, Scherrer pointed out that Amazon used about 70 percent union labor when constructing its Rochester and Syracuse warehouses, and labor leaders assumed the same would be true in Niagara.

But labor did ask for an agreement. "[We] did present Amazon with a project labor agreement, but they didnt agree to it," Scherrer told New York Focus. "There has been pushback from some of the trades, but most of the trades overall are in support."

"We knew Amazon wouldnt accept but we always request a project labor agreement," Brown said.

Scherrer declined to say which unions were opposed. "I wouldnt want it held against them when Amazon is hiring for the project," he said.

Project opponents also point out that the property tax abatements for Amazon would come at the cost of public school funding, estimating that the local school district has already lost about $980 per student each year from economic development tax abatements over the last five years.

That number is calculated from local tax abatement disclosures indicating foregone revenue, which local governments and school districts have been required to file since 2016.

While local school districts in New York are typically hesitant to weigh in on subsidy deals that will cut into their budgets, the state Legislature passed two bills this year designed to engage schools on corporate subsidy deals.

The states largest teachers union, the New York State United Teachers, supported that legislation but declined to weigh in on this particular deal.

"This obviously is a huge project, but its just one project that is emblematic of a larger issue we have concerns about, where school districts arent given a voice in these agreements that ultimately impact their resources," said NYSUT press secretary Matthew Hamilton.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has not yet indicated whether she will sign the legislation, which would require local IDAs and businesses requesting property abatements to notify school districts of proposed incentives that might affect their revenue streams.

In April, NYSUT signed a complaint to state Attorney General Letitia James calling for an investigation into Amazon's potential violations of labor law, which would violate the terms of its subsidy agreements with the state.

Amazon declined to answer questions for this article.
WFO BINGHAMTON Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, August 8, 2022

_____

HEAT ADVISORY

URGENT - WEATHER MESSAGE

National Weather Service Binghamton NY

534 PM EDT Mon Aug 8 2022

...HEAT ADVISORY IS CANCELLED...

Rain cooled air has settled in and allowed heat indices to drop

below 90.

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Heat index values up to 100.

* WHERE...In New York, Sullivan county. In Pennsylvania,

Lackawanna, Luzerne and Pike counties.

* WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT this evening.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat

illnesses to occur.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out

of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young

children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles

under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When

possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or

evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat

stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when

possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational

Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent

rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone

overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.

Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of Fulton and

northwestern Saratoga Counties through 615 PM EDT...

At 534 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near

Caroga Lake Public Campground, or 8 miles west of Gloversville,

moving east at 40 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and heavy rain.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects.

Locations impacted include...

Gloversville, Johnstown, Ephratah, Broadalbin, Edinburg, Northville,

Mayfield, Cranberry Creek, Caroga Lake Public Campground, Day Center,

Northampton Beach Public Campground, Caroga Lake, Mount Pleasant,

Berkshire, Bleecker, Meco, Munsonville, Tenantville, Sweets Crossing

and Shaw Corners.

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

LAT...LON 4324 7442 4324 7433 4322 7432 4322 7422

4325 7422 4326 7414 4330 7415 4335 7394

4311 7385 4299 7456 4318 7465

TIME...MOT...LOC 2134Z 256DEG 36KT 4308 7450

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.00 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

_____

Copyright 2022 AccuWeather
The response hasn't been great to this bit of local news regarding families ties and local infrastructure.

In fact what we noticed after a quick check of social media and some thoughtful comments from our blog community . . .

Overall there has been a collective eye roll regarding news of this sketchy transit executive gambit.

Of course there is a bright side . . .

The KCATA has been run by an unqualified hack for years so another one might not do much damage.

Meanwhile, here's an election season promise of good behavior . . .



"KCATA will hold a national search for a permanent president an CEO in the near future, according to a spokesperson for the organization."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority announces Frank White III as interim CEO KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority has announced Frank White III as the organization's interim CEO. The news comes after former CEO Robbie Makinen resigned on Wednesday, July 27, after being with KCATA since 2016. White has served as the vice president of RideKC Development Corporation for the past two years.

KCATA selects Frank White III to pinch-hit as interim CEO - Kansas City Business Journal Frank White III, the son of Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr., has been called upon to lead KCATA after its previous leader resigned. Most recently, we was vice president of RideKC Development Corp., which KCATA created in 2018 to pursue its policy goals through projects.

You decide . . .
In this post we share a quick summary of police action, crime reports and some court deets.

Check TKC news gathering . . .

Shooting kills 1, injures another at KCK park SOURCE: KMBC One person was killed and one person was wounded in a shooting Monday evening at City Park in Kansas City, Kansas, the Wyandotte County Sheriff's Office said.Authorities were called about 7:30 p.m.

KCPD identify suspect vehicle in hit-and-run crash KANSAS CITY, Mo. - UPDATE | Police say the owner of the vehicle has been in touch with detectives and the attempt to locate and identify the vehicle and owner has been canceled. ORIGINAL STORY | The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department is attempting to locate the suspect vehicle in a life-threatening hit-and-run crash on July 30 at 11539 Hickman Mills Drive.

Deadly Kansas City police shooting started with stolen vehicle investigation A fatal shooting involving Kansas City police on Sunday night started with a stolen vehicle investigation.It happened at a convenience store and gas station at the corner of 55th Street and Prospect Avenue in Kansas City.According to Missouri State Highway Patrol investigators, Kansas City police officers spotted a stolen vehicle.

Kansas City man accused of killing neighbor after 10 years of arguments KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A man who argued for 10 years with his neighbor is accused of shooting and killing him Sunday after a final argument over lawn mowing. Jackson County prosecutors charged Samuel Avery, 42, of KCMO, Monday with second degree murder and armed criminal action.

KC man facing charges in connection to Sunday homicide near 35th, Garfield KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A 42-year-old Kansas City, Missouri man has been charged in connection to Sunday's deadly shooting near E. 35th Street and Garfield Avenue. Jackson County prosecutors charged Samuel Avery with second-degree murder and armed criminal action. Officers responded to a shots fired call just around noon Sunday.

KCK police investigate several vehicle thefts at GM Fairfax Plant Hide Transcript Show Transcript KRIS: RIGHT NOW, KANSAS CITY POLICE ARE INVESTIGATING VEHICLE THEFTS AT THE G.M. FAIRFAX PLANT. INVESTIGATORS SAY 25 VEHICLES WERE STOLEN LATE LAST WEEK. 13 WERE RECOVERED IN KANSAS CITY MISSOURI. SO FAR NO WORD ON Police in Kansas City, Kansas, are investigating vehicle thefts at the GM Fairfax Plant.Investigators said 25 vehicles were stolen late last week.

Court Docs: Men charged with killing teen after believing he was in rival gang in Kansas City KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two men are accused of shooting a teen in Kansas City, Missouri, on his birthday because they believed he was in a gang that rivaled MS-13. Alexis Menjivar and Kennedy Lopez-Maderos allegedly shot Johan Sarmiento-Peralta last Thursday. Peralta later died on Saturday.

Raytown father speaks about kids' safety after violent weekend Raytown Police say two teens were killed in a shooting Sunday afternoon. One person is in custody.The shooting has many parents wanting to talk more to their kids about staying safe. "It's about respect. A little respect goes a long way," said Reece, a Raytown parent of three."You're gonna get tested, but it's about how you react," he added.

Parents search for justice for their son after charges dropped in Mission homicide MISSION, Kan. - A metro mom is voicing her frustrations after prosecutors dismissed charges against a 19-year-old for her teenage son's killing. Now she wonders if she will ever get justice. 16-year old Jamal Pratt was killed back in April, at an apartment complex in Mission.

Developing . . .
"I am thankful for the expressions of appreciation and solidarity by presidents and politicians of the region in the face of my absence from the swearing-in of President Gustavo Petro," Mr. Castillo affirmed via Twitter.

"Although there are sectors that stand against a fair sense of history, we will soon meet again, brothers, and we will overcome," he added.

Agradezco las muestras de aprecio y solidaridad de los presidentes y politicos de la region ante mi ausencia en la posesion del mandatario @petrogustavo. Aunque haya sectores que van en contra de un sentido justo de la historia, pronto nos reencontraremos, hermanos, y venceremos.
A quick timeline . . .

Kansas City confirmed the first case of monkeypox in mid-June.



A bit of progress in the right direction . . .



KCMO Health Dept. serves as a monkeypox hub.



However and under the radar of most local newsies . . .



There are now 13 monkeypox cases confirmed throughout Missouri.



Six of those cases have been reported in STL.

The majority of the other cases are connected to KCMO.

It's easy to downplay the small numbers but something close to a 300 to 400% increase is nothing to scoff at even if that represents only a few more people infected . . . At least when we're talking about a plague formerly confined to emerging nations that's now popping up in the U.S. amid a slow government response.

Inside word . . .

KC health expert insiders fear that, if left unchecked, we could see "HUNDREDS" of local cases by the end of the year.



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Monkeypox Is Spreading. Here's How To Avoid It. The World Health Organization in July suggested that men who have sex with men should "for the moment" reduce partners and reconsider sleeping with new people as a way to slow monkeypox spread. Sometimes rubbing against an infected person (aside from sex) isn't enough to get you sick, according to Dr. Berry Pierre, an internal medicine physician who fights monkeypox misinformation on TikTok.

What to Know About the Monkeypox Drug TPOXX The antiviral treatment isn't approved yet for monkeypox in the U.S., but is available under compassionate use

Biden administration to move forward with plan to stretch monkeypox vaccine doses The Biden administration is preparing to move forward with a plan to stretch the limited supply of monkeypox vaccine doses that would allow providers to use one-fifth as much per shot, two people familiar with the plans said.

To prepare for possible monkeypox spread, colleges focus on educating students With nearly 9,000 confirmed monkeypox cases nationwide, there is growing concern that US college and university campuses could become monkeypox "hotspots" this fall.

It's almost time for back to school. It's time for you to talk about monkeypox. Summer is winding down and, if your family is like mine, there's an increasing focus on preparing to go back to school. Unfortunately, this year that also means preparing to deal with the looming threat of monkeypox. Public health emergencies for monkeypox have been declared globally, nationally and, in some states, outbreak numbers are doubling about every week.

Monkeypox case identified in Shawnee County TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) - The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Shawnee County Health Department announced Monday they identified a probable case of monkeypox in Shawnee Co. The case was identified based on testing at the Kansas Health and Environmental Laboratories and close contacts within the household.

People think "The Simpsons" predicted monkeypox outbreak Continuing its eerie string of accurate predictions about real world events, The Simpsons fans are claiming that the show also predicted the rise of monkeypox. The rise of the viral disease has been documented globally, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC) declaring monkeypox a public health emergency in the United States.

An extended explanation that's worthwhile . . .

Developing . . .


Once again, for late night insomniac or early bird news junkies we share a quick collection of reports that deserve a glimpse but might not inspire debate.



Check TKC news gathering . . .

Architectural Digest selects Union Station among the world's most beautiful - Downtown Council of Kansas City Kansas City's renowned Union Station has been named one of 37 of the most beautiful train stations in the world by Architectural Digest. The iconic front door to Downtown KC is among only nine U.S. stations to be featured in the global list.

Kansas City schools are boosting efforts to fill teacher, staff shortages before classes start Students are returning to school in just a few weeks, but Kansas City area school districts are still pushing to hire more staff before they open their doors. The effort comes after Kansas started the summer facing a severe teacher shortage, with about 1,400 teaching jobs unfilled.

Biden approves disaster declaration for Missouri flooding KANSAS CITY, MO. - President Joe Biden on Monday approved Missouri's request for a federal disaster declaration in response to severe flooding. The declaration makes St. Louis-area residents eligible for federal help with temporary housing, home repairs and some health expenses. Record rainfall caused widespread flash flooding across the St.

Governor Kelly Proclaims August "Kansas Breastfeeding Month" At an official signing ceremony, Governor Laura Kelly proclaims August "Kansas Breastfeeding Month." This proclamation recognizes the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of Kansans. Subscribe Now to continue reading. Log In Join Now

Western Kansas was 'hell's aquarium' 80 million years ago. Here's what it can teach us today At a counter across from the fish-within-a-fish display, Baumgartner greets a wide-eyed young visitor who walks over to watch a Fort Hays State student in a lab coat gently scrape chalk from a mosasaur vertebra with a bamboo skewer.

Crossing guard shortage hits some Shawnee Mission schools Classes begin in three days at Shawnee Mission schools, but there are not enough school crossing guards. In Johnson County, about 35 elementary schools in Overland Park, Lenexa and Shawnee currently won't have crossing guards."Yes, it's a little unusual to be in the week of and have this many openings," said Brian Brooks of All City Management Services.All City Management Services said that crossing guards serve about an hour in the morning and 30 minutes in the afternoon.

Independence School District responds to family's concerns over new school bus routes INDEPENDENCE, Mo. - On Friday, KSHB 41 News reported on the Independence School District making changes to its bus routes stemming from what the district is describing as a bus driver shortage. Since then, KSHB 41 News spoke with Allen Hollar, who is concerned about the new route and its location.

Newhouse KC fundraising for van to help transport clients KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A domestic violence shelter in Kansas City, Missouri, is asking for the public's help. Newhouse, Kansas City's first shelter of its kind, is hoping to buy a 15-passenger van that will make a huge difference in the lives of the people it serves.

Rehoming 4,000 beagles is a nationwide challenge. Here's how Kansas and Missouri are helping KANSAS CITY, Kan. (KCTV) - It's a big task: Placing thousands of beagles removed from a breeding and testing facility in Virginia. Last month, the U.S. Department of Justice took over the Envigo lab. The lab was used for testing, but also bred the dogs to supply other labs that test on animals.

Black Mental Health: This is NOT a "White People" Issue - Kansas City Defender Mental health is just as important as physical health. However, the Black community at large doesn't see it that way, and there are numerous factors contributing to this. Suicide among Black youth has been increasing at an alarming rate with Black male adolescent rates going up by 60% and early adolescent Black youth being twice as likely to die as their white peers by suicide.

City auditor's job can lead to interesting discoveries The job is like a backseat driver pointing out where to turn or a mechanic looking for a loose connection. Or it's like a prospector gathering fine specks of gold or a dentist poking around with sharp little questions to find a bad tooth.

KC salon offering free back-to-school haircuts KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Kids across the KC metro will head back to the classroom over the next two weeks. One local salon is making sure every student gets the feeling of showing up to school with a fresh haircut. Joey Thomas of the 180V Barber Salon started the "Fresh Cut, Fresh Start" program 14 years ago.

Developing . . .
Right now hottie Kylie and her billionaire promo life inspire us to check pop culture, community news & top headlines.



Check TKC news gathering . . .

EXCELLENT CAUSE NEEDS LOCAL SUPPORT!!!

Kansas City domestic violence shelter raising money to buy van KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A metro domestic violence shelter has helped thousands of people since it opened. Now Newhouse needs a little help of its own. The shelter hopes to raise $20,000 to buy a passenger van to help transport survivors and families.

Today's Courthouse Distraction

Jackson County Executive calls on Gov. Parson to consider tax relief bill KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. has requested for Missouri Gov. Mike Parson to call a special session to consider a bill that would provide tax relief to Missouri residents. Missouri House Bill 2694 would prevent personal property tax assess and valued from exceeding the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers.

Hope For The Future

The Young Royals Made Lots of Noise in a Successful Week The Kansas City Royals just finished one of their most exciting weeks in a few years and capped it off by winning three of four against the struggling Red Sox. It was a huge series victory, but it was the performances by the rookies that has Kansas City feeling giddy about the possibilities of the future.

Too Early To Tell

KC Chiefs preseason depth chart doesn't mean that much The Kansas City Chiefs released their first depth chart of the 2022 preseason on Monday. Four days ahead of their first preseason game with the Chicago Bears, the Chiefs have officially listed and "ranked" all ninety players on their roster.

12th & Oak Nice News

The iconic rainbow building on Troost is no longer at risk of demolition. Here's the deal The bright pink building at 4337 Troost Ave. is notorious in the Manheim Park neighborhood.. It's frequented by Kansas Citians, including those experiencing homelessness, for the free food and clothing that owner Jerry Crowell distributes out front. This eye-catching location has seen its share of challenges: A January 2021 fire led to complaints from neighbors and an emergency demolition order from the city.

Influencer Pop Up Peek

Kylie Jenner's boobs almost fall out of TINY tube top in new NSFW Instagram pics KYLIE Jenner has been holding her boobs from falling out of a tiny tube top in new NSFW Instagram photos. Kylie, 26, shared her makeup and dress routine on social media. In the steamy photo, the Kylie Cosmetics founder added luscious waves to her typically straight and flat hairstyle.

Social Media Faux Pas Postscript

Kylie Jenner Deleted A "Sickening" TikTok Of Travis Scott "Raging" 9 Months After 10 People Died At Astroworld Hundreds more were injured during the deadly crowd surge at the annual event, which is produced by Travis and named after his 2018 album. The rapper was accused of "inciting the crowd" during his headline performance, which is when the tragedy occurred.

TRUMP RAID RAGE!!!

What we know - and don't know - about the Trump raid Hours after the FBI searched former President Trump's Mar-a-Lago home, his supporters gathered outside in an impromptu rally: Trump flags flew, pickups roared and "We're Not Gonna Take It" blared. Why it matters: Trump and the American right mobilized to use the raid as a symbol of government overreach and "political persecution," with a speed, fury and ferocity not seen since he left office.

Talkers Against Guv

Sean Hannity: The DOJ is now being used as a weapon against Biden's top political rival Fox News host Sean Hannity discusses the "unprecedented" raid on former President Trump's home in Mar-A-Lago by the FBI on Monday's "Hannity."

GOP On Political Warpath

Republicans erupt over FBI's Mar-a-Lago raid A growing number of Republicans are erupting over news of an FBI raid of former President Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence, accusing federal agents of unfairly targeting the ex-president for political purposes, with some suggesting that the law enforcement agency be "defunded." Many Republicans also echoed sentiments from Trump's Monday statement in which he said his home...

Half Measures Stay Losing

Landmark US climate bill will do more harm than good, groups say The landmark climate legislation passed by the Senate after months of wrangling and weakening by fossil-fuel friendly Democrats will lead to more harm than good, according to frontline community groups who are calling on Joe Biden to declare a climate emergency.

Red Wave Coming Soon

GOP polls show House battlefield stretching into double-digit Biden districts But the numbers comport with general assessments about the state of the House map from strategists of both parties, as well as the close results of the 2021 statewide elections in New Jersey and Virginia.

Let's Call Pause 'Peace' For Now



Ceasefire between Israel, Gaza militants holds after deadliest clashes in a year A ceasefire between Israel and the Islamic Jihad militant group in Gaza was holding on Monday after a weekend of hostilities left dozens of Palestinians dead.

Far East War Games Worsen

China-Taiwan: What we learned from Beijing's drills around the island US politician Nancy Pelosi's visit has set off fresh tensions between self-ruled Taiwan and China, which claims the island as part of its territory. BBC correspondents weigh in on the significance of China's main response - its live-fire military drills around the island - and how the two sides see them.

Twitter Founder Rages

Jack Dorsey tweets 'End the CCP' over China 'Zero COVID' measures Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey slammed the Chinese Communist Party over the weekend in response to a report on Beijing's continuing embrace of draconian policies during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fight Against Vlad Surges???

Ukrainian resistance grows in Russian-occupied areas KYIV, Ukraine -- In a growing challenge to Russia's grip on occupied areas of southeastern Ukraine, guerrilla forces loyal to Kyiv are killing pro-Moscow officials, blowing up bridges and trains, and helping the Ukrainian military by identifying key targets.

Common University Lament Now Earns COVID Spin

'I didn't really learn anything': COVID grads face college Angel Hope looked at the math test and felt lost. He had just graduated near the top of his high school class, winning scholarships from prestigious colleges. But on this test - a University of Wisconsin exam that measures what new students learned in high school - all he could do was guess.

Final Act Aftermath

Olivia Newton-John: Grease star and singer dies aged 73 Olivia Newton-John, best known for playing Sandy in smash-hit musical Grease, has died aged 73, her family says. The star died from cancer, her manager told the BBC. Her husband John Easterling said she "passed away peacefully" at her ranch in California on Monday morning.

Joke's On Us

Comedian Kevin Hart to perform 6 shows in Kansas City KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Comedian Kevin Hartwill perform six shows at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts as part of his Reality Check Tour. Hart will perform two shows each nightfrom Nov. 17-19. Tickets will go on sale Friday, Aug. 12 at 10 a.m.

Upscale Kansas City Carbs Debut

Cafe Europa, once a Crestwood Shops staple, finds a new flagship home Cafe Europa. // Photo by Jordan Baranowski Some moves are a long time coming. The owner of Cafe Europa, Ben Cascio, has long wanted to find a larger location to help bring a bolder vision for his shop to life. "Cafe Europa has been woven into the fabric of the Crestwood Shops for so long," he says.

Weather Forecast For Now . . .

Sunny and breezy for your Tuesday Hide Transcript Show Transcript UNFORTUNATELY DEPENDING ON IF YOU LIKE THE HEAT. WE HAVE TO ENJOY IT WHILE WE CAN , THOSE LESS HUMID AND LESS HOLIDAYS WHICH IS GOING TO BE TODAY. TOMORROW WE WILL GET INTO THE 90'S AND HE FEEL HUMIDITY THURSDAY AND FRIDAY.

KAYTRANADA, Anderson .Paak - Twin Flame is the song of the day and this is the OPEN THREAD for right now.
I sure will miss KK when the ship him to Guantanamo Bay.



Until then, we'll enjoy his hot take on a recent move that isn't playing well in the mainstream press . . .

"It's so scummy as the DOJ presumably got ahold of classified documents in the raid while they are defending a lawsuit demanding the DOJ to release documents Trump declassified concerning the Russia Hoax. This is going to be a wild battle."

Read & listen more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Trump Raid Changes Everything, DOJ Facing Lawsuit for Docs, Payback Could be Epic We lost a piece of a great America Monday when the Dems in charge of everything sent the FBI to raid Donald Trump's house in Florida. You know what this is all about as they are terrified what he will do to dismantle the Deep State if elected again. ...

Further reading . . .



Analysis: The extraordinary political storm unleashed by the FBI search of Trump's Florida resort The FBI search of Donald Trump's Florida resort is an extraordinary, historic development given that it targeted a former President of the United States and set off a political uproar he could use to stoke his likely 2024 White House bid.

Trump world takes stock of which Republicans back him against the FBI Trump called it not "necessary or appropriate." His allies called it the weaponization of law enforcement and an escalatory move by a federal government they conspiratorially say is out to destroy Trump ahead of any presidential run. The FBI and DOJ have declined to comment on the search.

Trump wanted his generals to be "totally loyal" like Hitler's in WWII Former President Trump told his top White House aide that he wanted his generals to be more loyal, like the generals who had reported to Adolf Hitler, per an excerpt from Susan Glasser and Peter Baker's forthcoming book.

Republicans speak out against FBI raid of Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate Since news broke that the FBI searched former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate on Monday, a growing number of Republicans have spoken out against the raid. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., took to Twitter, posting a statement that read in part: "I've seen enough."

Eric Trump said he alerted his father to FBI search of Mar-a-Lago Eric Trump said FBI agents "ransacked" his father's office and broke into a safe during a raid of the former president's Mar-a-Lago estate. In a Monday night interview with Fox News personality Sean Hannity, the younger Trump said he was the one who alerted Donald Trump to the FBI's unannounced search of the Florida property earlier in the day.

Trump on FBI raid of Mar-a-Lago: 'They even broke into my safe' Donald Trump has confirmed the FBI executed a search warrant on his Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago.

Former FBI agent calls raid at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort 'very unusual' LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT HOWEVER, MULTIPLE LAW ENFORCEMENT SOURCES HAVE CONFIRMED TO ABC NEWS THE FBI SEARCH WAS COURT AUTHORIZED ARTARA JAKEWAY. JUST SPOKE MINUTES AGO WITH A FORMER FBI AGENT. SHE CONTINUES OUR LIVE TEAM TEAM COVERAGE FROM PALM BEACH TARA.

Clinton-linked lawyer says Trump could be barred from re-election after FBI raid, cites US Code Marc Elias, a top lawyer for Hillary Clinton's 2016 presidential campaign, said Monday that former President Trump could be disqualified from making another run at the White House in 2024 following the FBI raid of his Florida residence.

Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley slams FBI raid on Mar-a-Lago WASHINGTON, D.C. - A Missouri Senator calls the FBI's raid on Mar-a-Lago an "unprecedented assault." "The raid by Joe Biden's FBI on the home of a former president who is also Biden's chief political opponent is an unprecedented assault on democratic norms and the rule of law.

Explainer: Trump says FBI is raiding his Florida estate. What legal woes does he face? Aug 8 (Reuters) - Former U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday that FBI agents raided his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Law enforcement officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Trump's claims. The focus of the investigation was not immediately clear.

Developing . . .
Here's we learned today about a controversy that's garnering nationwide attention across social media:

Local "influencers" claim that a suburban water park denied to fulfill a contract because of racism while the park claims that issues over crowd size were their main concern.



Here's the main point of contention from the Sleaze Scummit story . . .



Melissa Pfannenstiel the city's marketing coordinator, said the Lee's Summit Police Department provided them with the crowd size of teens who arrived in the parking lot.



Pfannenstie also said they plan to release surveillance video to corroborate the crowd size and that the department was called to assist with crowd control at 5:15 p.m.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Lee's Summit officials double down on claims that 500 teens attempted to attend pool party KANSAS CITY, Mo. - City officials in Lee's Summit are doubling down on claims that 500 teens attempted to attend a pool party at the Summit Waves pool on Saturday. The pool party was canceled after the city alleges several terms of a rental agreement was violated.

Lee's Summit water park responds following accusations of racism LEE'S SUMMIT, Mo. (KCTV) - While people entered Summit Waves in Lee's Summit this afternoon, they were greeted by more than just employees. Outside the entrance, a few protestors were holding up signs after a local family says they were discriminated against by the water park over the weekend.

Family says party cancellation at Lee's Summit waterpark was racially motivated LEE's SUMMIT, Mo. - Community support is growing for a Kansas City-area family who claim they've been racially discriminated against at a Lee's Summit water park. The Evans family, including their two teenagers, said they'd paid $2,000 to host a large birthday bash for their two teenagers this weekend at Summit Waves, a popular water park.

You decide . . .
This isn't an exactly a peace offering but maybe a few snarky words of acknowledgment is as close as we'll get amid upcoming midterms.



Here's the word . . .



Fresh off of their latest legislative victory, Senate Democrats are earning praise from an unlikely source: Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri.



Hawley, who's often staked out policy positions more conservative than his peers and is widely-viewed as a future presidential candidate, wrote on Twitter that Democrats "came to do something."



"I'll give the Dems this," he said. "With a 50/50 Senate & a historically unpopular president, they passed major (terrible) legislation. Lots of it."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
Peel police are looking for a suspect they allege has committed over a dozen robberies in the region and elsewhere in the GTA. - Peel police photo
The mosquitoes from locations in Etobicoke, North York and west Toronto are the first to test positive for WNV in Toronto this year
Presidente @PedroCastilloTe: Me llevo la experiencia de este moderno observatorio como punto de partida para que cada region del pais tenga un centro similar; indico luego de inaugurar el Observatorio Vulcanologico de Sur en Sachara  Arequipa.(1/7) pic.twitter.com/6a1x0gJGMR
YEREVAN, AUGUST 9, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan sent a congratulatory message to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong on the occasion of the country's national holiday. The message reads as follows,

Your Excellency,

I heartily congratulate you and the friendly people of Singapore on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Singapore.

Armenia attaches great importance to further deepening and strengthening of partnering relations between our two countries. I recall with satisfaction our mutual visits in 2019, which raised the cooperation between Armenia and Singapore to a new level.

I reaffirm my willingness to work towards expanding existing cooperation with Singapore in bilateral and multilateral fields, in accordance with our bilateral agreements.

I wish Your Excellency good health and success, and prosperity to the friendly people of Singapore.

Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurance of my highest consideration."
You are going to have to watch what you say on those Whatsapp messages, memes and Blogs afte
Canadian Forces special operations members are training Ukrainians on the ground in Ukraine.

Thats according to Global News citing its sources, Ukrinform reports.

Sources say the members from the Canadian Special Operations Command are also facilitating weapons and equipment delivery.

Asked to comment on the deployment of Canadian forces on the ground in Ukraine, Minister Anand said: In terms of special forces and their location and information along those lines, it would be imprudent for me to provide that information.

Read also: Finland to send instructors to Britain to train Ukrainian military

The news comes after Canadas Defense Minister Anita Anand announced plans to have regular Canadian Forces take part in specifically training Ukrainian recruits in the UK, as part of a pledge the Canadian government made when it put on pause the Operation Unifier mission in Ukraine shortly before Russia invaded in February.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine have received 50 new Kirpi armored vehicles from Turkey. Another batch of 150 units is expected to be delivered soon.

The operational group of troops Kakhovka wrote on Facebook, Ukrinform reports.

"Foreign partners support our soldiers. The whole world wants Ukraine to win over the bitter enemy. The new Turkish BMC Kirpi armored vehicles were handed over to the Armed Forces of Ukraine," the report reads.

It is noted that the delivery of another batch in the amount of 150 vehicles is expected soon.

Yuriy Mysiahin, an MP, deputy chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence, said in a Telegram post that the first batch of Kirpi armored vehicles consists of 50 units.

"The Armed Forces have already received Turkish-made Kirpi armoured vehicles. The marines of the two brigades are already using 50 vehicles. We are waiting for another 150," Mysiahin said.

The MP added that the armoured vehicle is equipped with a machine gun, which can be controlled manually and turned 360 degrees, fire extinguishing system, good mine protection, B6 armor level. The vehicle can carry a total of 12 military personnel and a crew.

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One of those injured in a Russian missile attack on the Cherkasy region has died in the hospital.

Ihor Taburets, head of the Cherkasy Regional Military Administration, said this in a post on messaging app Telegram, Ukrinform reports.

"Unfortunately, one of those injured in a missile attack on the Uman district died in the hospital. The doctors did everything they could. But it was not possible to save him - the injuries he sustained turned out to be fatal. Condolences to loved ones," Taburets wrote.

He added that another person injured in the attack was in stable condition.

On August 8, Ukrainian air defense forces shot down a Russian missile near Uman, Cherkasy region. Two people were injured by the fragments of the missile.

Photo: Ukraine's State Emergency Service
The representatives of the Ukrainian State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate and the Embassy of the United States in Ukraine have discussed an escalation in the situation at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (NPP).

The relevant statement was made by the Ukrainian State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

An escalation in the situation at Zaporizhzhia NPP, seized by Russian troops, was raised at a meeting between Ukrainian State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate Acting Chairman - Chief State Inspector for Nuclear and Radiation Safety of Ukraine Oleh Korikov and Deputy Chief of Mission in the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine Christopher W. Smith, which took place on August 9, 2022, the report states.

In particular, Korikov told the U.S. representative about all nuclear and radiation safety risks at Zaporizhzhia NPP, caused by Russias shelling of power transmission lines, the areas close to spent fuel dry storage casks, nitrogen-oxygen plant, and the deployment of Russian military equipment in the engine rooms of power units, potential interruptions in external power supply, pressure put on the Ukrainian personnel of the plant, etc.

The parties agreed that, under such challenging conditions, it is important for Ukraine to retake control over Zaporizhzhia NPP and minimize nuclear and radiation safety risks.

According to the parties, a transitional solution could be to establish control over Zaporizhzhia NPP by the international mission, involving the United Nations, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other international organizations.

Smith assured the Ukrainian side that the United States will continue to be a reliable partner of Ukraine and will support the country both in terms of resolving the situation at Zaporizhzhia NPP and fighting against the Russian armed invasion.

A reminder that Russian troops seized Zaporizhzhia NPP on the night of March 4, 2022. Since then, Russian invaders have been deploying military equipment and ammunition within the site of Zaporizhzhia NPP.

On August 5-6, 2022, the Russian military opened fire on Zaporizhzhia NPPs infrastructure. Russian projectiles hit close to spent fuel dry storage casks. A total of 174 casks are kept there, and each of them contains 24 spent fuel assemblies.

Photo: snriu.gov.ua

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Following the Razoni dry cargo ship loaded with corn, which was the first to leave Ukraine along the "grain corridor", 20 more ships are ready to leave Odesa.

According to Ukrinform, Ambassador of Ukraine to Lebanon Ihor Ostash announced this on Facebook.

We are now in Tripoli, but the arrival of the first ship with corn from Odesa is delayed. We are waiting for the conclusion of the negotiation process. 20 more ships are ready to depart Odesa after this vessel," the report reads.

The ambassador added that Ukraine is making every effort to help save the countries of the Middle East and Africa from the food crisis.

As reported, on August 1, for the first time since Russia's full-scale invasion began on February 24, a ship carrying more than 26,000 tonnes of Ukrainian corn left the Odesa port. The Razoni ship under the flag of Sierra Leone is heading to the port of Tripoli in Lebanon. The ship was scheduled to arrive on August 7.

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International partners should prevent any attempts by the Russian Federation to disrupt food exports by sea.

The relevant statement was made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in his video address, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Implementation of the grain export initiative continues. Today, for the first time since February 24, a loaded ship left the Pivdennyi port. Currently, there is every chance to ensure the rhythmic nature of such exports. However, as in previous days, the key thing is the ability of the partners to prevent any attempts by Russia to disrupt exports and exacerbate the global food crisis again, Zelensky said.

According to the President of Ukraine, sea exports were restored primarily thanks to the Ukrainian defenders who protected the water area.

A reminder that, on August 7, 2022, the second convoy of ships loaded with about 170,000 tonnes of agricultural products left Ukrainian ports: three vessels departed from Chornomorsk Port and one from Odesa Port. On August 8, 2022, the bulk carrier SACURA left Pivdennyi Port, and the bulk carrier ARIZONA left Chornomorsk Port. The two vessels are carrying 60,000 tonnes of agricultural products.

Photo: CNN Turk

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The first 39 railway cars loaded with coal have arrived at Ukraines thermal power plant (TPP) from Australia.

The relevant statement was made by the Ukrainian Energy Ministry, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Ukrainian Energy Minister German Galushchenko visited a power generating facility of Centrenergo PJSC, which had been unloading the first 39 railway cars with Australian gas coal.

Generally, Ukraine is expected to receive 79,000 tonnes of coal provided by the Government of Australia as part of humanitarian assistance.

We are grateful to the Australian Government for their support and contribution to Ukraines reliable energy supply this heating season, which will be the most challenging in recent decades, Galushchenko stressed.

Galushchenko also expressed gratitude to Polish partners for their assistance with the delivery of Australian coal, as Ukrainian ports were blocked due to the Russian armed aggression.

According to Galushchenko, preparations for the autumn and winter period are being made as scheduled. Coal stocks are being accumulated in accordance with the approved schedule.

Photo: www.mev.gov.ua

mk
Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin held a meeting with the Ambassador of the United Kingdom of Great Britain to Ukraine, Melinda Simmons.

Thats according to PGOs press service, Ukrinform reports.

Kostin expressed gratitude to the people of the United Kingdom, who have sincerely supported Ukraine since the first day of the latest stage of the Russian war.

"Your support to Ukraine, in particular regarding cooperation with the International Criminal Court, active work within the framework of the Atrocity Crimes Advisory Group, as well as expert assistance, is very important. It helps prosecutors speed up the investigation of war crimes committed by the Russian army and conduct it in line with best international practices," Kostin said.

He shared the plans that the Prosecutor's Office has to develop a Strategy for handling cases of conflict-related sexual violence. According to the PGO, such a strategy will ensure effective prosecution of criminals, while maintaining an approach focused on the protection of victims of violence.

It is noted that the parties agreed on the need to pursue close cooperation and discussed the possibility of holding several meetings of Ukrainian and British law enforcement officers to increase the effectiveness of international support for the investigation into Russian war crimes committed in Ukraine.

As reported, the UK government has announced a GBP2.5 million aid package for Ukraine to probe war crimes committed by the Russian military.

Photo: Prosecutor General's Office, Telegram
YEREVAN, AUGUST 9, ARMENPRESS. The situation at the line of contact overnight August 8-9 and as of 12:00 was relatively stable despite the remaining tension, the Artsakh Ministry of Defense said in a statement.

In some sections the detachments of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces again violated the ceasefire, firing various-caliber small arms. Measures continue being taken together with the Russian peacekeeping contingent command in the direction of further stabilizing the situation, the ministry said.
Amid the conventional war waged against Ukraine, Russian hybrid operations remain beyond global focus, therefore it is necessary to work out a proactive strategy to better counter Russian hybrid actions.

Thats according to Kurt Volker, former U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine negotiations, who spoke with Guildhall, Ukrinform reports.

First of all I would like to say that you are exactly right (Russian hybrid activities are out of focus and we need to counter them in parallel lines - ed.). Russia has a full-spectrum concept of war, Volker said.

The diplomat noted that it is not just about artillery fire, but also about the economic pressure, operations against Ukraine's exports, energy sector, and information space. He also recalled Russias efforts to divide Europe, including through energy blackmail, as well as to meddle in the U.S.

Ukraine and its Western allies and partners need to have their own strategy and think across the full spectrum as well.

I don't think that our mind is in this mode yet, but this is what we need to do, Volker believes.

To a question of whether the countering of Russian hybrid operations should be expanded Volker answered affirmatively, adding that I wouldn't go chasing every rabbit down every hole.

I would think instead strategically  what is it that matters and how do we have our own proactive strategy to advance that, said Kurt Volker.
Amnesty International has joined the ranks of organizations that actually ignore the realities of the Russian-Ukrainian war

The Russian and Turkish presidents continued their geopolitical cat-and-mouse game. Nancy Pelosi made an impressive visit to the Republic of China.

Amnesty International's report on the violation of the norms of international humanitarian law by the Ukrainian Armed Forces during the war with Russia became a demonstration of the impressive short-sighted policy of the well-known human rights organization. It also showed a desire to simultaneously collect additional donations and not irritate Russia, which killed more than 50 Ukrainian prisoners of war in Olenivka and is practicing nuclear blackmail at the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant. Such documents should become catalysts for changes in the system of international relations, the process of which will certainly begin after the end of the Russian-Ukrainian war, since a number of international organizations proved unable to effectively help peaceful citizens of Ukraine who became victims of Russia's unprovoked aggression.

The Russian and Turkish presidents spent held more than four-hour long negotiations in Sochi. Vladimir Putin and Recep Erdogan have known each other for a long time, and their communication has known different times and tones. This time, the Turkish president is actively preparing for next year's elections, so he is trying not only to act as a mediator, but also to think about the economy. Therefore, he wants to agree on the purchase of Russian gas as cheaply as possible and on the influx of Russian tourists to Turkey. Erdogan seeks to combine presence in NATO (the Turkish army is one of the most powerful in the military alliance) and the role of leader of the Muslim world, which is impossible without public skepticism towards the West. Turkey's supply of Bayraktar drones to Ukraine does not prevent Putin from being polite to Erdogan. He is so polite that in the run-up to talks with his Turkish counterpart, Putin released his personal "peace dove" Gerhard Schroder with his own "peace initiatives."

Photo: ZACH GIBSON/MCT

Speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi visited the Republic of China (Taiwan) during her Asian tour. Millions of people watched the U.S. politician's demonstration of support for Taiwan against the background of belligerent statements by Chinese officials. Assumptions about the beginning of the Third World War were made frequently, but those who made them seem to have forgotten that trade between the United States and China amounted to more than $750 billion in 2021. Pelosi, on the other hand, demonstrated excellent political shape and gave the Democratic Party additional chances during the upcoming midterm elections in November.

Yevhen Mahda, Institute of World Policy
Ukraine law enforcers are suspecting 193 individuals of collaboration with the Russian invasion forces.

Thats according to First Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Eugene Yenin, who delivered the report via Facebook, Ukrinform reports.

"Currently, based on the facts of the cooperation of the Ukrainian population or citizens with the enemy in the latters interests, more than 1,100 criminal proceedings have been initiated. A total of 193 persons have been charged. Everyone who must be prosecuted will be held accountable, so its either God's judgment or Ukrainian judgment that they face," the official said.

Read also: Russian propaganda media host offering to set up Gulag for Ukrainians in occupied territories

The official emphasized that enemy accomplices have only two options: to be charged, with all legal repercussions entailed, or to disappear from this world altogether.

Yenin recalled that the deputy Gauleiter of Nova Kakhovka died after being shot. In early July, a traitor policeman was shot dead in the temporarily captured Nova Kakhovka. Before that, a car carrying two collaborators was blown up in Kherson. A Kherson collaborator Saldo remains is in a grave condition after being poisoned.

"A couple of days ago, in Volyn region, police officers detained a resident of Luhansk region. After arriving in the Ukraine-controlled territory, for a reward he received from the Russian forces, he has been looking to hire hitmen to assassinate Ukrainian military servicemen," added the First Deputy Minister.
The Kremlin has decided to legislatively terrorize the POWs of Azov and is eager to help China in the conflict with Taiwan. The Centre for Strategic Communications and Information Security collected the main fakes and narratives of Russian propaganda for August 2.

That's according to the Center for Strategic Communication.

Moscow recognizes Azov fighters as cannibal terrorists

Chinas potential losses over possible Taiwan war

Sanctions: from black gold to Kabaeva and 6G

When a fake can be truer than the truth itself

Moscow recognizes Azov fighters as cannibal terrorists

Russia has finally resolved the legal conflict with the POWs of the Azov Regiment. On August 2, the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation recognized Azov, which, let us remind you, is part of the National Guard of Ukraine, as a terrorist organization.

Thus, the Ukrainian regiment became the 41st in the list of relevant organizations, which is drafted by the FSB  alongside al-Qaeda and the Taliban (with which the Russian Federation still fairly friendly relations).

Subsequently, Article 205.2 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation on participation in a terrorist organization or its creation may be applied to Azov POWs. Punishment for them can now be significantly increased. From 10-20 years in prison to life imprisonment.

Now in Russia, those who at least put a dislike under the propaganda news about the Azov fighters will automatically fall under the justification of terrorism. This is punishable by two to five years imprisonment.

Let us remind you that the corresponding claim was filed by the Russian Prosecutor Generals Office back in May, when the Azov case was almost the main trend of Russian propaganda. But the narratives about Nazi terrorists had not been legally supported until now. Interestingly, the Supreme Court, in announcing its judgment, stated that it came into force immediately. That is, Russia is in a rush.

IN FACT, once upon a time, the topic of the fight against terrorism was, for the Putin regime, a pass to a decent international community. The US fought against terrorists (who just destroyed al-Zawahiri, the leader of the already mentioned Al-Qaeda), while Putin fought against terrorists in the North Caucasus. On this ground, Washington and Moscow found mutual understanding.

But with the gradual degradation of the Russian political system, Kremlin anti-terrorism also degenerated into forms that increasingly alarmed former partners.

In Russia, terrorists and extremists were critics of the regime and just anyone who annoyed the Kremlin, such as Jehovahs Witnesses and the Memorial Society. The accusation of terrorism has become a legalized form of reprisal against anyone.

Modern Russian anti-terrorism has an extremely disgusting cannibal nature. Sometimes its literally cannibalism. As, for example, in the case of charges against Azov POWs:

Insinuations about cannibalism are another manifestation of the official policy of dehumanization of Ukrainians among the Russian audience, to encourage its approval or direct participation in the genocide.

The criminalization of POWs is a violation of international humanitarian law. And accusing them of terrorism is an attempt to draw attention away from Russias own terrorist nature.

The jurisdiction of the Russian authorities does not extend to the territory of Ukraine. Therefore, the decision of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation to recognize the Azov regiment as an alleged terrorist organization is a legal nonsense. It sounds a little strange: a country that is one step away from being recognized as a sponsor of terrorism and that violates any rules and customs of war, recognizes someone as a terrorist organization, Mykhailo Podolyak, advisor to the head of the Presidential Office.

And hes absolutely right. Because already on August 2, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation officially declared the severance of diplomatic relations with the United States in case Washington declares Russia a state sponsor of terrorism.

Speaker of the Russian diplomatic department Zakharova said: Washington risks finally crossing the line of no return with all the consequences arising.

The promised terrible consequence, obviously,being the entry of the Russian Federation into the war between the United States and China on the Chinese side if these two states one day decide to fight each other.

Chinas losses over the war with Taiwan

After the September 1 remake of the beginning of the First World War did not come through in the Balkans, Russian propagandists very much counted at least on the picture of the theatre of military operations opening in the Pacific and of a global conflict.

But Taiwan, where the Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi flew to on August 2, did not turn into Pearl Harbor.

During her flight, one could track how gradually, literally live, the rhetoric of the Russian media changed: will she fly?  she did!  is she flying?  she is!  will she land?  she did! This psychosis, which the Russian authorities and their media found themselves in, climaxed with Kadyrovs post on great powers.

IN FACT, that Russia is so desperate to include someone else in its global war against the West testifies to its weakness and inferiority complex no less than the current queues of Russians seen in the H&M and IKEA  the brands that announced their withdrawal from the Russian Federation.

With such mental idolatry before the West (as they said in Soviet times), war cannot be won, even if goods of European quality in Russia will be replaced by goods of Chinese quality. Mentally, this war between the Kremlin and the West is lost. And long before Putin. Back in the 1970s, when there was a group of resellers of imported clothes who were selling American jeans.

As for Beijings relationship with Taiwan, for example, from 1991 to the end of May 2021, Taiwans investment in the PRC amounted to USD 193.5 billion.

It is in Taiwan that TCMS, the world leader in semiconductor manufacturing, is based. Those semiconductors that Russia is in dire need of, and that it dreams of getting for its Kalibrs.

TSMC Chairman Mark Liu has already stated that if China attacks Taiwan, all of the companys businesses will cease operation. Breaking supply chains will cause damage on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Therefore, Beijing will still think hard before moving on from exercising around Taiwan to something more serious.

As for Beijings quarrel with Washington, it is worth knowing the following figure: the turnover of China and the United States during the last year amounted to USD 755.645 billion. The turnover between the PRC and the EU, according to the results of the first quarter of this year, amounted to USD 205.87 billion.

For comparison: the turnover between Russia and China stands at a mere USD 51.09 billion. Will Beijing sacrifice American and European markets for Putins geopolitical nonsense about the war with the West?

Sanctions: from Black Gold to 6G

China is not Russia. It is only Putin who, for the sake of his unfounded ambitions, can literally give others a huge Russian share in the oil and gas markets.

Since the beginning of August, coal has been added to the list of previously sanctioned gas, oil, steel; their supply to the EU countries from Russia is embargoed. The price of the issue is small  EUR 4 billion per year  yet painful. Russian propagandists complain that Europe will freeze and happily discuss the news about how, for example, Dutch people already stockpiling firewood.

IN FACT, the largest importers of Russian coal in Europe are the Netherlands  14.9 million tons. They are followed by: Poland  7.7 million tons, Germany  7 million tons, Italy  4.4 million tons, and France  2.6 million tons. But already this year, in addition to domestic energy-saving measures, Europe has begun to introduce external procurement. Kazakhstan alone delivered almost twice as much coal to the EU countries from January to May as it did last year.

This has already led to a 17% decrease in the production of black gold in the Russian Federation and in its export to 30%. Most Russian coal companies employing tens of thousands of people are in Kuzbass and the Far East. The embargo will entail a reduction in the extraction and processing of coal, respectively, which could become disastrous for the populations of these regions. And they still have to chip in for the restoration of Donbas.

In addition, on August 2, the US Treasury Department added 13 Russian citizens to the sanctions list, including six billionaires, as well as Alina Kabaeva, former gymnast, and now Chair of the Board of Directors of the National Media Group. Washington did not put her on its lists until the very end out of fear of Putins personal anger. Well, now the US leaves him with nothing personal.

The US hid its really high-precision strike behind Kabaeva, who became the main media face of Washingtons new list. It included the Skolkovo Foundation, the Technopark, and the Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology. Sanctions may lead to restrictions on access to American technology and seriously complicate the development of telecom equipment for 6G generation communications. The need for its implementation (passing the 5G stage) was announced last week in the Russian Federation at the highest level.

Global cooperation on technical standards and frequency selection is important for the development of these technologies. Therefore, given that Western manufacturers of telecom equipment Nokia, Ericsson leave Russia and the Chinese Huawei OpenRAN has suspended its supplies, this blow by Washington is really painful for Russia.

When a fake can be truer than the truth itself

And finally  another fake (as it was already officially declared in the Russian Federation). This time, a fake report was published by the ex-president of the Russian Federation Medvedev, whose scandalous revelation in VKontakte on the restoration of the USSR, made the morning of many people on August 2. The post was quite long. Here are the main points.

 all the peoples who once inhabited the great and powerful Soviet Union will live together again in friendship and mutual understanding;

 after the liberation of Kyiv and all the territories of the Little Russia  Russia will once again become united, powerful, and invincible, as it was a thousand years ago in the days of the Ancient Russian state;

 after that, under the sole hand of Moscow, led by the Slavic people, we will go on a campaign to restore the borders of our homeland, which, as we know, do not end anywhere;

 Georgia was created within the current borders only within the Russian Empire;

 Kazakhstan is an artificial state, these are former Russian territories In this century, the authorities of Kazakhstan have begun to implement initiatives to resettle various ethnic groups within the republic, which can be qualified as genocide of Russians.

Consequently, Medvedev stated that the page had been hacked. Then the question is to the leadership of the main social network of Russia, where every official, by the way, must have an account. If Medvedev himself couldnt be secured, what can be said of others? Many people assume that this was such a trolling from the current Donbas handler Kiriyenko, whose son is part of the VKontakte management. And the already mentioned Kabaeva couldnt save Kiriyenko from the fake at some point.

IN FACT, we live in a wonderful time when a fake can be truer than the truth itself. A famous Ukrainian publicist Denys Kazanskyi writes in this regard that the content of the post (even if it was deleted) did not differ from the Nazi nonsense that Medvedev wrote before.

Opus continues to be discussed as if it were a real post. After all, absolutely everyone  both supporters and enemies  understands that this is what the Russian authorities really think. Even if Medvedev did not write this post, it is no different from what is regularly stated by various Russian MPs and officials.

Be that as it may, one fake post (if it really is fake) revealed more truth than all the official statements of Russian officials made in previous years.

Therefore, the ex-president can no longer be ashamed of his revelations. Sanctions will only intensify anyway, and no new global war will write off anything.

Center for Strategic Communication
YEREVAN, AUGUST 9, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed an order dismissing Levon Minasyan from the position of Chief of the State Protocol Service of Armenia, the government reported on e-gov.am.
Two cargo ships loaded with agricultural products have left the Ukrainian Port of Chornomorsk on Tuesday, as news.am informs the Ministry of Defense of Turkey stated.

August 9, 2022, 14:25 Turkey MOD: Two ships loaded with food left Ukraine Port of Chornomorsk

STEPANAKERT, AUGUST 9, ARTSAKHPRESS: The MV OCEAN LION, loaded with 64,000 tons of corn, will go to South Korea, and the MV RAHMI YAGCI, loaded with 5,300 tons, head for Istanbul, Turkey. They will transport a total of 70 thousand tons of food.
Angler Paul Stevens, left, with the huge halibut he caught in Norway. (Solent News)

A British angler is celebrating what is thought to be a record catch after reeling in a 7ft halibut off the coast of Norway.

Paul Stevens, 45, from Norwich, landed the massive flatfish, which weighed 28 and a half stone (180kg) and was 7ft (2.1m) long.

He caught it while fishing off the coast of Norway, in what is believed to be the largest fish of its kind landed by someone from the UK. He returned the fish to the water after catching it.

It is thought, because of its size, the fish was between 70 and 90 years old.

It pulled the boat half a mile," said Stevens. "It took three days for my shoulders to recover. I put it back. Its breeding stock.

"It was a bit emotional. I have spent a lot of years trying to catch a fish like that."

As the fish was too heavy to bring on board his vessel, Stevens entered the water to have his photo taken with it, before unhooking it and releasing it unharmed.

Read more: Woman gives up 20-year fight with neighbour over 50ft trees

British angler Paul Stevens gets to grips with the 28-stone halibut he caught off the coast of Norway. (Solent News)

Despite its size, it wasn't the biggest halibut ever caught - the world record stands at 232kg.

Stevens, manager of Sportquest Holidays, which organises guided fishing trips for British anglers to northern Norway, caught the fish off the Lofoten islands off northern Norway, using a dead coalfish as bait.

"It dived three times and pulled the boat about half a mile," he said.

"It took me 20 minutes to reel in but that's because I am an experienced angler. It could easily take others two hours.

Angler Paul Stevens with the halibut, before unhooking it and letting it swim away. (Solent News)

"There is no way you could weigh a fish that size. There is a universal formula of taking the measurements of a big fish to calculate its weight which is what I did.

Atlantic halibut - Hippoglossus hippoglossus in Latin - are among the largest bony fish in the world.

Their native habitat is the the northern Atlantic from Greenland to the Barents Sea and as far south as the Bay of Biscay.

They can reach up to 15ft in length.

The biggest halibut ever caught was reeled in by German angler Marco Liebenow in 2013, weighing more than 36 stone.
Conakry, Aug 9 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Aug, 2022 ) :Guinea's junta-appointed government has dissolved the country's leading opposition movement, the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution (FNDC), under a decree dated Saturday.

An alliance of political parties, trade unions and civil groups, the FNDC spearheaded protests against former president Alpha Conde before his ouster in a coup last year.

Friction has been growing for months between the FNDC and the junta, culminating in an announcement by the coalition on Monday that it would stage demonstrations on August 17.

A decree declaring the FNDC's dissolution, signed by Territorial Administration Minister Mory Conde, was authenticated by AFP on Tuesday.

"The de-facto group called the National Front for the Defence of the Constitution, is dissolved... with effect from the date of signature," the ruling said.

Rumours of the decree had spread on social media late Monday.

The decree said the FNDC's "operational mode is based on violent attacks (perpetrated) during banned demonstrations, attacks against individuals who do not share their ideology, and targeted attacks against the security forces".

The organisation has "the behaviour of combat groups and private militias... threatening national unity, public peace and cohabitation", it said.

Rich in minerals but deeply poor, the West African state has had little stability since it gained independence from France in 1958.

In 2010, Conde, today aged 84, became the country's first democratically elected president.

But his popularity dived in his second term as critics accused him of authoritarianism, and opposition protests were violently repressed.

Dozens died, the overwhelming majority of them civilians, in protests launched by the FNDC.

Last September, as anger mounted over Conde's successful bid for a third term -- a move he defended on the grounds of a change to the constitution -- mutinous troops rebelled.

Junta strongman Mamady Doumbouya has pledged to return power to elected civilians within three years.

The timeline has put the junta into conflict with the region's bloc, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

ECOWAS' chair, Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, said late last month that he had convinced the junta to shorten the transition to two years. The figure has not been confirmed by Guinea.

Demonstrations broke out in Guinea on July 28 and 29 over perceptions that the junta was dragging its feet on its restoring civilian rule, leaving five dead.
Port Moresby, Aug 9 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Aug, 2022 ) :Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape was sworn in for a second term Tuesday, after an election hit by violence and alleged corruption that also ended a five-year absence of women in parliament.

Marape won support from a majority of members in the Pacific island nation's newly elected parliament.

In a wide-ranging first speech to the new parliament, he reiterated his pledge to make Papua New Guinea the "richest black Christian nation on Earth" and welcomed the unanimous parliamentary vote that secured his leadership.

"We are one, one people, one country, one nation," Marape said.

"And I just want to appreciate the fact that today, the parliament came in total unison." Addressing concerns -- raised by Commonwealth election observer teams -- over bribery allegations and missing Names from voter rolls, Marape also flagged a review of polling.

"We must reform our electoral processes. It is evident that maintaining the status quo on this is no longer an option." Among the newly elected members were Rufina Peter and Kessy Sawang, the first female candidates confirmed to have secured a seat in parliament.

Their victories marked a return of women to national politics after none won seats in the previous election in 2017.

It is a "proud moment," said Peter O'Neill, leader of the People's National Congress -- of which Rufina Peter is a member.

"Our mothers, girls and women in PNG and in fact the whole Pacific region have a true champion, an experienced woman in Parliament," O'Neill said in a statement.

Voting ended on Friday but the count is still underway for some seats in the mountainous, forest-covered country, which is rich in resources but suffers from widespread poverty.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

RAWALPINDI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Aug, 2022 ) :Four soldiers of Pakistan Army on Tuesday embraced martyrdom in a suicide blast occurred on a military convoy in general area Mir Ali of North Waziristan District.

The martyred soldiers (Shuhada) were identified as Lance Naik Shahzaib (age 22 years, resident of Mansehra), Lance Naik Sajjad (age 26 years, resident of District Ghizer), Sepoy Umair (age 25 years, resident of Kohat) and Sepoy Khurram (age 30 years, resident Narowal), an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release said.

It said the intelligence agencies have commenced investigations to find out the details regarding the suicide bomber and his handlers and facilitators.

"Pakistan Army is determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers will not go unpunished," the ISPR said.
As the Church in Japan holds its annual Ten Days of Prayer for Peace event the Japanese bishops reiterate that peace is everybodys responsibility. In their message for the occasion, signed by the president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Japan (CBCJ), Archbishop Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo, the prelates reflect on Pope Francis words in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

By Lisa Zengarini

Peace is possible; peace is a duty. The Japanese bishops have reiterated this call in their reflections for the Ten Days of Prayer for Peace event. The prayer initiative is held every year by the Church in Japan from 6 -15 August, the anniversary days of the two atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.

In this years message for the occasion, signed by the president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Japan (CBCJ), Archbishop Isao Kikuchi of Tokyo, the prelates draw attention to the new threats to nuclear peace and international security, amid Russia's war against Ukraine, taking cue from Pope Francis considerations at the General Audience on September 2, 2020 and from his Urbi et Orbi Easter Message on April 17, 2022.

Russias invasion of Ukraine hinders world peace

In the General Audience two years ago, the Pope called for diversity and solidarity united in harmony as the way to emerge from COVID-19 crisis in a better state than before. However  the Japanese bishops note - over the past six months what has unfolded before our eyes has not been harmony, diversity or solidarity, but confrontation, exclusion and violence.

Russias invasion of Ukraine shocked the world as a violent act of a major power that trampled on the growing efforts of the international community in its search for peace. The situation continues to unfold without regard for the wishes of so many people who want to protect life and seek peace.

Read also 09/08/2022 Cardinal Parolin: Church is pacifist because she believes in and fights for peace An interview with Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on the Holy See's diplomacy, published by the Italian geopolitical magazine Limes under the title "The ...

Peace cannot be won through violence

During the pandemic we have learned from experience that supporting each other in solidarity, is the best way to protect life. Now, after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the world is being swept by feelings that peace can be won through violence. But that would only trample on true peace, the Japanese bishops warn.

When we are touched by the many people who are violently deprived of life by war and our hearts are overwhelmed by the unreasonableness of it all, the fear and anger that arises pushes compassion and support out of our emotions.

The consequences of war affect the entire human family

The message goes on to note that war is so powerful that other vital but neglected issues related to human life, including poverty, economic crises, persecutions and people forced to flee their homeland for different reasons, are driven from our awareness. Citing Pope Francis Easter appeal, Archbishop Kikuchi further points out that: Every war brings in its wake consequences that affect the entire human family: from grief and mourning to the drama of refugees, and to the economic and food crisis.

As the Church in Japan commemorates the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki the bishops, therefore, encourage the faithful to reflect upon and act for peace from different angles.

Archbishop Kikuchi closed his message arguing that peace without violence is possible, and asked Catholics to use the Ten Days to take action to proclaim the solidarity that creates peace.

"Ten days of Prayer for peace" initiative

The "Ten days for peace" initiative was established by the Japanese Bishops in in 1982, following Pope John Paul IIs Appeal for Peace at Hiroshima (25 February 1981) during his Apostolic Journey to Japan, in which he emphasized that remembering the past is engaging for the future. During his visit to the Country in November 2019, Pope Francis further added that the possession of nuclear weapons is also immoral.
The 'gigantic jet' rose 50 miles into space from a thunderstorm (Chris Holmes)

A huge lightning bolt which rose 50 miles into space above a thunderstorm has offered new insights into mysterious gigantic jets , which carry huge amounts of electrical charge.

Scientists believe up to 50,000 gigantic jets may occur every year - and the new research may help to explain why they shoot up into space rather than down towards the ground.

The gigantic jet rose out of a thunderstorm in Oklahoma and is the most powerful ever studied.

Normal lightning bolts carry less than five coulombs of electrical charge: the gigantic jet moved an estimated 300 coulombs of electrical charge into the ionosphere, the lower edge of space.

The upward discharge included structures known as leaders which were 4,400C, as well as streamers of cooler plasma.

Corresponding author Levi Boggs, a research scientist at the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) said, "We were able to map this gigantic jet in three dimensions with really high-quality data.

We were able to see very high frequency (VHF) sources above the cloud top, which had not been seen before with this level of detail.

Using satellite and radar data, we were able to learn where the very hot leader portion of the discharge was located above the cloud."

Read more: Melting snow in Himalayas drives growth of green sea slime visible from space

Steve Cummer, professor of electrical and computer engineering at Duke, uses the electromagnetic waves that lightning emits to study the powerful phenomenon.

He operates a research site where sensors resembling conventional antennas are arrayed in an otherwise empty field, waiting to pick up signals from locally occurring storms.

Cummer said, "The VHF and optical signals definitively confirmed what researchers had suspected but not yet proven: that the VHF radio from lightning is emitted by small structures called streamers that are at the very tip of the developing lightning, while the strongest electric current flows significantly behind this tip in an electrically conducting channel called a leader,".

Story continues

Read more: A 1988 warning about climate change was mostly right

Gigantic jets have been observed and studied over the past two decades, but because there's no specific observing system to look for them, detections have been rare.

Boggs learned about the Oklahoma event from a colleague, who told him about a gigantic jet that had been photographed by a citizen-scientist who had a low-light camera in operation on May 14, 2018.

Fortuitously, the event took place in a location with a nearby VHF lightning mapping system, within range of two Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) locations and accessible to instruments on satellites from NOAA's Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) network.

Boggs determined that the data from those systems were available and worked with colleagues to bring it together for analysis.

Boggs explained, "The detailed data showed that those cold streamers start their propagation right above the cloud top.

They propagate all the way to the lower ionosphere to an altitude of 5060 miles, making a direct electrical connection between the cloud top and the lower ionosphere, which is the lower edge of space."

Why do the gigantic jets shoot charge into space? Researchers speculate that something may be blocking the flow of charge downwardor toward other clouds.

Records of the Oklahoma event show little lightning activity from the storm before it fired the record gigantic jet.

Boggs said, "For whatever reason, there is usually a suppression of cloud-to-ground discharges.

There is a buildup of negative charge, and then we think that the conditions in the storm top weaken the uppermost charge layer, which is usually positive. In the absence of the lightning discharges we normally see, the gigantic jet may relieve the buildup of excess negative charge in the cloud."

Estimates for the frequency of gigantic jets range from 1,000 per year up to 50,000 per year.

Watch: Lightning spiders across the sky in Florida
The Holy Sees Head of Delegation to the UN, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, addresses the Tenth Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons which is taking place from 1 to 26 August in New York.

By Vatican News staff reporter

In an address during the Tenth Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, the Vaticans Head of Delegation underlined the Holy Sees position, stating that atomic energy must only be used for peaceful purposes.

The archbishop said that the Holy See takes this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and urges State Members to strengthen support for the Agency.

Pros and cons

He noted the contribution nuclear technology has made to sustainable development by treating cancer, improving crop yields, managing and protecting water supplies, and monitoring ocean pollution.

Capacity building partnerships between developing countries and the IAEA have enabled nearly all States to benefit from such applications, the archbishop said.



However, he pointed out that despite these accomplishments, the spread of nuclear technology has not occurred without problems, and some very grave problems.

Peaceful use of nuclear energy

Ensuring the peaceful use of nuclear energy means that nuclear energy, medicine, and research facilities must not be targeted in war, which could turn such sites into sources of proliferation, create dirty bombs, or radiologically contaminate local communities and the environment, harming present and future generations, the archbishop stressed.

In light of this, he continued, the Holy See first recalls that Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions prohibits attacks against nuclear power plants and urges that the protection of civilian objects be kept high on the international agenda, including the protection of nuclear facilities.

He also underlined that Such efforts must also respond to the secondary consequences of war and conflict, which linger long after guns fall silent.

Our common home



In a bid to protect our common home, said the archbishop, the peaceful uses of nuclear technologies must be considered in an integral fashion, not with a siloed, technocratic approach.

He went on to say that pursuing integral human development requires addressing the social, environmental, and health impacts of technologies.

Archbishop Caccia pointed out that potential new inventions in nuclear energy suggest the promise of providing climate-neutral energy without harmful impacts to health, the environment, and future generations.

Furthermore, he underlined, States should take steps to remediate environments negatively affected by nuclear accidents and uranium mining, assist communities suffering from such effects, and agree on long-term storage solutions for high-level radioactive waste.

The archbishop also urged States to work together in pursuing the peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

In this regard, he added, the Holy See welcomes the opening of the IAEA Low Enriched Uranium Bank in Kazakhstan and calls for greater efforts to multilateralize the nuclear fuel cycle, especially those portions of which pose the greatest threats to proliferation.

Ethic of responsibility

Concluding his address, Archbishop Caccia emphasized that current and future generations deserve a peaceful world order based on the unity of the human family, grounded on respect, cooperation, solidarity and compassion.

He also stressed that now is the time to counter the logic of fear with the ethic of responsibility, and so foster a climate of trust and sincere dialogue.


Vietnams cosmetics market is rather young, yet is one of the most dynamic in the region. As living standards in Vietnam grow, Vietnamese consumers are becoming more aware of personal care and beauty products besides satisfying basic needs. With a market value of up to US$ 2.3 billion in 2021, Vietnam Briefing analyses the current situation, opportunities, and challenges for businesses entering this industry.

Cosmetics products are big business in Vietnam. The industry is booming thanks to a large number of Vietnamese consumers investing in personal care and beauty products given higher living standards.

Vietnam has risen to a middle-income from a low-income country, with an increasing middle-income class who are allocating more of their income to cosmetics products. A middle-class female in Vietnam spends an average of VND 450,000  VND 500,000 (US$19  US$21) monthly on makeup and skincare.

Growing disposable income, evolving beauty standards, the spread of social media, and the Korean wave all contribute to the soaring demand for beauty products in Vietnam.

South Korea is renowned for its skincare and makeup regime. Korean idols and influencers add fuel to self-care trends in Vietnam through social media, campaigns, advertisements, and beauty blogs. Moreover, greater financial independence for employed women in Vietnam has driven their demand for beauty care while evolving beauty standards has led males to pay more attention to grooming.

Since 2018, the percentage of women in Vietnam using cosmetics has climbed up from 76 percent to 86 percent. In the next decade, Vietnams cosmetics market is projected to witness a growth of 15-20 percent annually.

Vietnams skin care product market size totaled in value at US$850 million in 2019 and is anticipated to reach US$1.9 billion by 2027, indicating a CAGR of 11.7 percent during the 2021-2027 period.

Overview of the cosmetics market

Vietnam is a hotspot for foreign cosmetics brands with up to 93 percent of personal care products imported. South Korea is the dominant cosmetics exporter to Vietnam, followed by Europe, Japan, Thailand, and the US.

Country Cosmetics import market share South Korea 30% The EU 23% Japan 17% Thailand 13% The US 10%

Source: US Department of Commerce

Other exporters of beauty and personal care include Singapore and China. Meanwhile, domestic brands only represent less than 10 percent of total consumption. Domestic brands mainly focus on affordable, lower-end products that compete on price.

Foreign players dominance in the market is mainly due to the Vietnameses preference for imported products. Vietnamese consumers perceive foreign brands as having higher quality and a wider variety of products that can cater to individual needs.

Vietnams importation of beauty products was worth around US$950 million in 2019. The most prominent imports include facial cleansers, facial moisturizers, lipsticks for women, and grooming/shaving products for men.

The opening of various retail chains like Watsons, Guardian, and new players like Pharmacity and Matsumoto, has increased the reach of imported cosmetics products to middle-class and affluent consumers in Vietnam.

Meanwhile, recognizing the potential of the young, yet budding market of Vietnam, major and high-end foreign cosmetics companies have either opened representative offices or sold through agents and distributors such as:

Unilever: constituting up to 12 percent of the market, famous brand: Ponds

Beiersdorf Vietnam: Nivea

LG Vina Cosmetics: Ohui (high-end), The Face Shop

AmorePacific Vietnam: Laneige, Innisfree

LOreal Vietnam Co Ltd: LOreal

Some domestic brands like Thorakao, Saigon Cosmetic, Lana, Sao Thai Duong, and a new player, Cocoon, have gained some degree of reputation.

Revenue of the cosmetics market in Vietnam has been on a steady rise for all sectors since 2019, with implications for 2023.

Revenue over the years in US$ (millions):

Year Eyes Face Lips Natural Cosmetics 2019 141.7 103.7 112.9 49.5 2020 142 103.1 112.9 49.3 2021 153.5 110.9 122 53.2 2022f 165.4 119.3 131.5 57.4 2023f 177.6 128.3 141.4 61.9

Source: Statista

Eye and lip products are the two most dominant sectors of the market, generating over a US$100 million annually since 2018. The natural cosmetics sector is a weaker performer, yet holds immense growth potential in the medium term. Indeed, more people are shifting their focus to clean, organic, and herbal ingredients, which are believed to be both healthy and eco-friendly compared to chemical-based cosmetics.

To provide investors a panoramic view of the cosmetics and personal care market in Vietnam, we provide a PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analysis below:

Opportunities and challenges for new and current players

Vietnamese people are becoming more health-conscious, and are paying close attention to the ingredients of beauty products in the market. This has opened up new opportunities for cosmetics companies wishing to extend beyond their current scope or newcomers wishing to enter Vietnams cosmetics and personal care market.

Investors should look to domestically produce and distribute organic beauty products for two main reasons.

First, Vietnam has relatively cheap organic and herbal ingredients that can serve beauty products. Coconut is one such ingredient that is abundant in Vietnams Mekong Delta region and is an essential element in many beauty products.

This is followed by turmeric, green tea, and aloe vera, three native ingredients in Vietnam with healing properties for damaged skin. Overall Vietnam is native to a wide range of organic ingredients  a good foundation for businesses that want to develop organic products domestically.

Secondly, the local consumer mindset is changing, with exceptional concern about the quality of personal care products, especially for Generation Z. Hence, organic and herbal products are likely to see immense growth in the beauty market. Big players are already making the change. LOreal, the market leader, has launched their popular Inoa hair dye which they claim to be oil-based and ammonia-free while Nivea by Beiersdorf has also introduced their natural skincare line.

Yet challenges remain. One big hindrance is that the cosmetics market in Vietnam is rather young and unstable. One big driver behind the high demand for cosmetics products is the Korean wave. However, Korean trends alternate radically from time to time, which has made the cosmetics market in Vietnam vulnerable to instability. Besides, the cosmetics market is also significantly influenced by Korean celebrity endorsements. Endorsing one product over another carries weight and influences the sales of products, adding to a companys challenges.

Another challenge in the market is that it is highly price sensitive. Since a large proportion of consumers are young people with a lower income, they tend to go for products of the lower end rather than high-end products. To compete, it is important that cosmetics and personal care companies set their price range as close as possible to the buying power of Vietnamese consumers.

Vietnams cosmetics market also holds challenges for Western brands due to consumers stereotypes. Consumers believe Asian-made products are a better suit for their skin type than European-made products owing to physical differences.

However, the problem can be alleviated as long as Western brands show a strong commitment to quality since Vietnamese consumers are more concerned with quality ingredients.

What makes Vietnams market worth investing in?

For such a young market like Vietnam with a high tariff line for imported cosmetics and personal care products, the most asked question is: what makes Vietnam a worthwhile venture?

It is worth noting that Vietnam imposes a 10-27 percent tariff rate on cosmetics and personal care products while VAT is 10 percent. The import duty of beauty products is calculated on the CIF (cost, insurance, freight) value of each shipment. This tariff line is fairly high compared to other countries in the region.

High import duty has driven up the prices of most imported beauty products. Consumers have to spend at least US$3.42 (VND 80,000) to get an average shampoo product in Vietnam while in Germany the same shampoo product costs around US$2 (VND 46,000).

In light of such disparity in price range, Vietnamese spending on cosmetics and self-care products is even higher than consumers of developed countries. This implies Vietnamese consumers willingness to pay for high-quality products as well as high demand for beauty products  an opportunity for investors to look into this young, yet hungry-for imported products, market.

Basic requirements when exporting cosmetics to Vietnam

Imported cosmetics registration in Vietnam is under the authority of the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV), under the Ministry of Health (MOH). Every exporter and importer is required to obtain relevant certificates from these government bodies. All imported cosmetics and personal care products must be registered with the MOH, and the following information is required on the packaging:

Name, functions of product;

Listed ingredients formula;

Usage guidance;

Country of origin;

Name and address of distributor (written in Vietnamese);

Weight, volume;

Manufacturing and expiry dates; and

Manufacturing lot number.

Cosmetic notification procedure

Businesses that import and distribute cosmetics and personal care products in Vietnam should prepare the following documents:

Two copies of the Notification form with the proclamation data; Legalized original or notarized copy of the Letter of Authorization from the product manufacturer or owner, allowing the registrant to distribute the products in the Vietnam market; and Legalized original or notarized copy of a valid certificate of free sale (CFS). However, the CFS will be exempted for products produced in a member country of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) or ASEAN countries.

The required documents are then submitted to the DAV online, via the Vietnam National Single Window. The fee for registration will be VND 500,000 (US$21,38). The process takes up to 7-10 working days for the DAV to issue the result: a receipt number, also considered as the product license number and is valid for 5 years since the issuance date.

Takeaways

The cosmetics market in Vietnam is still in its infancy, which poses both advantages and disadvantages for domestic and foreign players. But as skincare and cosmetics have become a daily ritual for many Vietnamese consumers, the market is projected to only grow in the long run. With abundant supplies of organic ingredients and rising demand, Vietnam is a budding market for cosmetics and personal care companies to enter.
Xiaoliuqiu is the kind of tiny laid-back tropical island no visitor wants to leave. Soul-healing scenery, scrumptious seafood, clear waters for cozying up with green sea turtles and these days, Chinese naval vessels.

Controlled by Taiwan, the isle is a swimmable 9.5 kilometers from the seas where China is conducting live-fire exercises in response to U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit this week visit to the self-governing island. China, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province, responded fiercely to Pelosi's latest challenge to Beijing's record on human rights and democracy.

Yet as a tense world watches these latitudes, on the island, "It seems everything's pretty much normal in terms of the local attitude," said John Eastwood, an American lawyer who was vacationing on the island close to the Chinese mainland, on Thursday.



According to Taiwan's Defense Ministry, China on Thursday fired "multiple Dongfeng series ballistic missiles." The ministry went on to describe the launches as "irrational actions that undermine regional peace."

Meanwhile, back on Xiaoliuqiu: "Everyone seems to have a pretty good attitude," Eastwood told VOA Mandarin Thursday via Teams video.



Eastwood, who has lived and worked in Taiwan for 22 years, said Xiaoliuqiu restaurants are open and people are kayaking, scuba diving and stand-up paddleboarding.

"All the watersports activities are still going on, and people are behaving like normal," he said.



His hotel faces the waters where China was conducting drills.



On Thursday morning, he spotted only a little fishing boat. But "by noon, which was around the time that China was supposed to start the exercises, we counted about 13 ships that appeared out on the horizon. They appeared to be motionless, which indicated that they would be vessels monitoring or watching what's going on," he said.



On Friday, China's military activated more than 100 planes and more than 10 warships for its largest-ever live-fire drills. State media CGTN quoted Meng Xiangqing, a professor at the National Defense University of the People's Liberation Army, as saying, "The exercises were far more intense and deterrent than ever before."



The drill has forced a number of commercial vessels to reroute. Lloyd's List Intelligence reported Thursday that about 240 merchant ships would have to find alternative routes to their destinations.



China's ballistic missile launches, which the U.S. called an "overreaction," ruffled Xiaoliuqiu's calm.



"People worry there can be a mechanical failure of some sort that results in a warhead landing," Eastwood told VOA Mandarin.



China's retaliatory restrictions on trade are expected to hit Taiwan's fruit and seafood industries.

Despite these measures, Eastwood said most Taiwanese people still supported Pelosi's visit.



"It seems pretty clear that Nancy Pelosi has just got herself about 24 million huge fans," Eastwood said. The U.N. estimated Taiwan's population was at 23,893,751 on July 1, according to the World Population Review.



The Taiwanese people treasure their democracy, Eastwood said. "This is something they earned the hard way at the cost of tens of thousands of lives during the White Terror period in which a large number of people were imprisoned and executed."



The White Terror that began in 1947 was four decades of rule over Taiwan by the Kuomintang, also known as the Chinese Nationalist Party, after it was defeated by the communists in mainland China. Dissidents were arrested, interrogated and executed by Kuomintang intelligence agencies, according to Taiwan's National Human Rights Museum. Estimates of the number of civilians killed in the crackdown range from 2,000 to more than 25,000, according to experts.



Taiwan remained a single-party state until democratic reforms in the 1980s, which led to the first direct presidential election in 1996.



Eastwood hopes for a quick return to normal when, "at Songshan Airport in Taipei, there were flights basically taking off every half hour for a different city in China. People were doing businesses together and productive things together, they were making value together," he said.



"That's a good thing to go to rather than setting up a blockade."
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen on Sunday cancelled a controversial satellite-city development around a wildlife sanctuary and zoo near the capital following growing online appeals to halt the project.

Conservationists and locals began voicing their concerns and objections when the development plan around the Phnom Tamao zoo and wildlife rescue centre came to light several months ago.

Developers last week started razing privatised areas around the more than 2,000-hectare Phnom Tamao forest area, an hour drive from capital Phnom Penh, and home to many rare and endangered wildlife including sambar deer at the zoo.

Officials defended the development saying the area's land was too sandy for trees and wild pigs destroyed farmers' crops.

But on Sunday morning, strongman Prime Minister Hun Sen ordered the project stopped and thanked compatriots for their "constructive comments" and requests to conserve the forest around the Phnom Tamao zoo.

"I order... all permits for land swap and development be cancelled," Hun Sen said in a post on his official Facebook page.

He said that the forest around the zoo must be preserved, ordering the companies to replant trees on dozens of hectares of land they have already cleared.

Wildlife Alliance rescue and care programme director Nick Marx, who has been working at Phnom Tamao for some 20 years, said Hun Sen's decision "demonstrates Cambodia's desire to conserve wildlife."

"Phnom Tamao without the forest around is just the zoo. With the forest around, it is a place for real conservation to take place and this is what's important to conserve wildlife," Marx told AFP.

He added that before Hun Sen's order the forest was "being cleared quite quickly".

Rampant poaching, habitat loss from logging, agriculture and dam building has stripped much wildlife from Cambodian rainforests.
Chinas military extended provocative exercises in the waters and air surrounding Taiwan on Monday, a day after the drills had been scheduled to end.

In a statement, Chinas defense ministry said the Peoples Liberation Armys Eastern Theater Command would focus on anti-submarine and air-to-ship strikes near Taiwan. It is not clear how long the drills will last or where they will occur.

China has already conducted four days of intense military exercises in six designated areas surrounding Taiwan, a response to U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit last week to the island.

Pelosi, a longtime critic of China, visited on August 2 to show solidarity and U.S. support for the self-ruled island. China views such visits as an unacceptable violation of its sovereignty.

When asked about Beijings continued exercises, U.S. President Joe Biden told reporters Monday, "I'm not worried but I'm concerned that they're moving as much as they are. But I don't think they're going to do anything more than they are."

The Chinese drills involved ballistic missiles that were fired directly over Taiwan, as well as warships, fighter jets, and drones that operated around the island.

China previously said those activities would end Sunday, though many observers feared Beijing would attempt to normalize a more aggressive military posture against Taiwan.

Taiwans foreign ministry late Friday condemned Chinas decision to extend the exercises, saying Beijing is still deliberately creating a crisis and ignoring international calls to halt the drills.

At a briefing, Taiwans defense ministry said Chinese aircraft and ships have not entered Taiwanese territory or airspace during the drills.

However, Chinese ships and warships have repeatedly crossed the median line, a de facto sea border in the Taiwan Strait, according to Taiwanese officials. Some of the designated live-fire zones are less than 20 kilometers from Taiwans coast.

Taiwans government has stressed that it does not seek an escalation but that its forces will continue to monitor and deter Chinese planes and ships at sea. In recent days, Taiwans military has released footage showing Taiwanese vessels tracking Chinese ships at a close range.

China claims Taiwan as its own territory, despite the Chinese Communist Party having never ruled the island. A vast majority of Taiwanese, as well as Taiwans democratically elected government, reject the Chinese claims.

Taiwanese distrust toward Beijing is likely to increase because of Beijings current approach, according to many observers.

The Chinese demonstration of military strength around Taiwan amounts to a very violent form of communication, said Wen Lii, a resident of Taiwans Matsu Islands, which lie just 20 kilometers from mainland China.

It only serves to increase the antipathy that Taiwanese people hold toward the government of China, said Lii, who heads the local office of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

In the Matsu Islands, life continues as normal, despite the proximity to the Chinese drills. Restaurants and hotels continue to be busy, Lii said in an interview with VOA.

People dont ignore the fact that China is conducting these live-fire drills, but people dont panic over these drills or let the media discussions affect their lives, he added.

In the capital Taipei, many residents acknowledged they are following the news, even if they were not shocked by it.

Theyve been making these threats for as long as I can remember, said a Taipei resident in his 20s who was walking in Taipeis busy Ximending shopping district.

He cited a recent French news program in which a Chinese diplomat spoke of the need to reeducate Taiwanese residents in the event Taiwan eventually becomes a part of China.

They say we are being brainwashed to believe in these independent ideas. Which is kind of hilarious because we have seen all kinds of atrocities in Hong Kong, said the Taipei resident, who wanted only to be identified as Dave.

China views the Taiwanese government as a separatist force, even though Taiwans ruling party does not advocate for declaring independence.

Taiwan and China split in 1949 after a civil war, with the defeated nationalist forces fleeing to Taiwan and setting up a government that later grew into a vibrant democracy.

Since then, Chinas Communist Party has vowed to take Taiwan, using force if necessary.
The United States on Monday returned 30 stolen works of art and antiquities to Cambodia that had been looted from the southeast Asian nation, including from an ancient Khmer city, and illegally trafficked around the world for decades.

Manhattan federal prosecutor Damian Williams officially handed over the looted antiquities to Cambodia's ambassador to the United States, Keo Chhea, in front of press.

"We celebrate the return of Cambodia's cultural heritage to the Cambodian people, and reaffirm our commitment to reducing the illicit trafficking of art and antiquities," Williams said.

Among the 30 works was a 10th-century sculpture of the Hindu deity Skanda, seated on a peacock, as well as a 10th-century sculpture of the Hindu god Ganesha. Both were stolen from Koh Ker, the ancient Khmer capital located 80 kilometers (50 miles) from the renowned temples of Angkor, Williams's office said in a statement.

The antiquities, which range from the Bronze Age to the 12th century, had been stolen along with thousands of others during the wars in Cambodia in the 1970s and when the country reopened in the 1990s.

The federal prosecutor's office said that thousands of Khmer statues and sculptures that were trafficked out of Cambodia over the course of decades to antique dealers in Bangkok, before being illegally exported to collectors, businessmen and even museums in Asia, Europe and the United States.

One of the dealers, American Douglas Latchford, was charged in 2019 with art trafficking, but the case was tabled after his death.

The New York prosecutor's office is involved in the restitution of a vast array of works. From the summer of 2020 to the end of 2021, at least 700 pieces have been returned to 14 different countries, including Cambodia, India, Pakistan, Egypt, Iraq, Greece and Italy.

In 2021, American collector Michael Steinhardt returned about 180 antiquities stolen from around the world in recent decades as part of a deal with the government.

The pieces had a total value of $70 million.

The agreement between the US judicial system and Steinhardt, 80, allowed him to escape an indictment but prohibits him from acquiring works on the legal art market for the rest of his life.

Angkor, which at 400 square kilometers (154 square miles) is the largest archaeological site in the world, was the capital of the Khmer empire, which lasted from the ninth to 14th centuries.

The site, which recently reopened to tourists after a two-year pandemic-induced closure, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.
Experts to scene will determine whether demonstrators shot by peacekeepers: UN official in DRC

Xinhua) 15:54, July 28, 2022

UNITED NATIONS, July 27 (Xinhua) -- Investigators in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will be able to determine whether UN peacekeepers killed civilians, the top UN official in the country said on Wednesday.

"We can trace our weapons," Khassim Diagne, the acting head of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the country, told correspondents during a teleconference briefing from Kinshasa, DRC.

Diagne made the remarks after 15 people, including one peacekeeper and two United Nations police officers, were killed during protests targeting the UN peacekeeping mission since Monday in the northeastern province of North Kivu, and some local media reported the protesters were shot by peacekeepers.

"If it is a UN shooting, we will know," the acting representative said, adding that forensic specialists from the DRC capital city were being dispatched to the provincial capital to investigate whether peacekeepers have fired into demonstrators.

"If we had shot ... it would have been a disaster because there were thousands of people climbing the walls and getting into the compound," Diagne said of the attack in Goma, capital of North Kivu.

According to the official, there were warning shots fired in the air to disperse the protesters, which he said could not do the trick.

(Web editor: Peng Yukai, Liang Jun)
Advocates are calling the protection of a parcel of land in Cayuga County a win for Skaneateles Lake.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation and the Finger Lakes Land Trust announced this week the permanent protection of 234 acres at Casa Farms in the town of Niles with a conservation easement.

According to a news release, the property features nearly 6,000 feet of frontage on Hooker Brook, which drains directly into Skaneateles Lake, the unfiltered drinking water supply for more than 200,000 people in the city of Syracuse.

The DEC said that conservation easements are voluntary legal agreements that permanently limit future land use in order to protect the land's conservation value. Lands subject to conservation easements remain in private ownership, on local tax rolls, and available for traditional uses such as farming and hunting. Through the establishment of this conservation easement, a buffer zone of natural vegetation along Hooker Brook was established to prevent potential contaminants from entering the drinking water supply while allowing for continued agricultural use on the rest of the property. Permanently protecting this property through conservation easement is a cost-effective way to protect Syracuse's drinking water source.

The funding for this project came from a larger FLLT grant for $1.6 million from DEC's Water Quality Improvement Project Program.

Casa Farms contains a mix of habitats including successional forests, shrublands, agricultural fields, and a hemlock-hardwood swamp. The property is located in the Skaneateles Highlands, a priority focus area of the FLLT that features the Trust's Bahar, High Vista, and Hinchcliff Family nature preserves. It is also in proximity to Bear Swamp State Forest and Carpenter Falls State Unique Area, owned and managed by DEC.

"Protecting water quality is a top priority for DEC and our land trust partners throughout New York State," DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said in a statement. "Our continued partnership with the Finger Lakes Land Trust on this and other projects in the region demonstrates our commitment to protecting drinking water sources and open space for residents and visitors in Central New York."

"This is great news for Skaneateles Lake," FLLT Executive Director Andy Zepp. "The conservation easement will help protect water quality while providing for traditional agricultural use."

By working cooperatively with landowners and local communities, FLLT has protected more than 29,000 acres of the region's undeveloped lakeshore, rugged gorges, rolling forest, and scenic farmland. The FLLT owns and manages a network of more than 45 nature preserves that are open to the public and holds perpetual conservation easements on 171 properties that remain in private ownership. Additional information about the FLLT may be found at the Finger Lakes Land Trust website.
A 51-year-old man from Afghanistan was charged Tuesday with killing two Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and authorities said he is suspected in the slayings of two others whose deaths sparked fear in Muslim communities nationwide.

Officials announced the arrest of Muhammad Syed a day after he was taken into custody.

Police Chief Harold Medina made the announcement on Twitter, saying that authorities had tracked down a vehicle believed to be involved in one of the slayings in New Mexico's largest city.

"The driver was detained, and he is our primary suspect for the murders," the tweet said.

Investigators received tips from the city's Muslim community that pointed them toward Syed, who arrived in the U.S. sometime in the last several years, police said.

He was pulled over and taken into custody along Interstate 40 in Santa Rosa, about 110 miles east of Albuquerque.

The slayings drew the attention of President Joe Biden, who said such attacks "have no place in America." They also sent a shudder through Muslim communities, where some people questioned their safety and limited their movements.

When told about the announcement, Muhammad Imtiaz Hussain, brother of one of the victims, Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, said he felt relieved but needed to know more about the suspect and the motive.

"This gives us hope that we will have (the) truth come out," he said. "We need to know why."

Naeem Hussain was killed Friday night, and the three other men died in ambush shootings.

Hussain, 25, was from Pakistan. His death came just days after those of Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, and Aftab Hussein, 41, who were also from Pakistan and members of the same mosque.

The earliest case involves the November killing of Mohammad Ahmadi, 62, from Afghanistan.

Authorities on Monday sought help searching for a vehicle that appeared to be the one discovered on Tuesday.

The common elements in the deaths were the victims' race and religion, officials said, and police were trying to determine if the deaths are linked.

Debbie Almontaser, a Muslim community leader in New York, said that a female friend who lives in Michigan and wears the hijab head covering shared with her over the weekend just how rattled she was. "She's like, 'This is so terrifying. I'm so scared. I travel alone,'" Almontaser said.

Aneela Abad, general secretary at the Islamic Center of New Mexico, described a community reeling from the killings, its grief compounded by confusion and fear of what may follow.

"We are just completely shocked and still trying to comprehend and understand what happened, how and why," she said.

Some people have avoided going out unless "absolutely necessary," and some Muslim university students have been wondering whether it is safe for them to stay in the city, she said. The center has also beefed up its security.

Police initially said the same vehicle was suspected of being used in all four homicides  a dark gray or silver four-door Volkswagen that appeared to be a Jetta or Passat with dark tinted windows. But the police chief's tweet referred only to the vehicle's connection with one slaying.

Authorities released photos hoping people could help identify the car and offered a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Investigators did not say where the images were taken or what led them to suspect the car was involved in the slayings. Police spokesperson Gilbert Gallegos said in an email Monday that the agency has received tips regarding the car but did not elaborate.

Gallegos said he could not comment on what kind of gun was used in the shootings, or whether police know how many suspects were involved.

Few anti-Muslim hate crimes have been recorded in Albuquerque over the last five years, according to FBI data cited by Brian Levin, director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism and a professor of criminal justice at California State University at San Bernardino.

From 2017 through 2020, there was one anti-Muslim hate crime a year. The highest recent number was in 2016, when Albuquerque police recorded six out of a total of 25 hate crimes.

That largely tracks with national trends, which hit the lowest numbers in a decade in 2020, only to increase by 45% in 2021 in a dozen cities and states, Levin said.

Albuquerque authorities say they cannot determine if the slayings were hate crimes until they have identified a suspect and a motive.

It was not clear whether the victims knew their attacker or attackers.

The most recent victim was found dead after police received a call of a shooting. Authorities declined to say whether the killing was carried out in a way similar to the other deaths.

Muhammad Afzaal Hussain had worked as a field organizer for a local congresswoman's campaign.

Democratic Rep. Melanie Stansbury issued a statement praising him as "one of the kindest and hardest working people" she has ever known. She said the urban planner was "committed to making our public spaces work for every person and cleaning up legacy pollution."

As land-use director for the city of Espanola  more than 137 kilometers (85 miles) north of Albuquerque  Hussain worked to improve conditions and inclusivity for disadvantaged minorities, the mayor's office said.


U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) has a new leader, with U.S. Gen. Michael "Mike" Langley assuming command of U.S. military missions on a continent where the Pentagon says countering Chinese influence and threats from extremists remain paramount.

"I know I have a lot to do. We have a lot to do," Langley said during a ceremony at the command's headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.

Upon his promotion earlier this month, Langley became the first African American four-star general in the Marine Corps' 246-year history. Prior to this post, Langley served as commander of Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic and Marine Forces Command.

"He is the right leader at the right time with the right skill set to lead this critical command. He has the unique blend of character, competence, courage, experiences, and knowledge to lead AFRICOM in this challenging time," Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Tuesday.

Langley is the sixth AFRICOM commander since the command was established in 2008. Outgoing commander Gen. Stephen Townsend, who is retiring after 40 years of service in the military, warned at the ceremony that "America cannot afford to ignore Africa."

"The continent is full of potential but also full of challenges, and it's standing at a historic crossroads," said Townsend. "On one side is authoritarianism and foreign malign influence, along with the terrorism and food and economic insecurity that goes with it. On the other side is peace, security, democracy, development, and rule of law."

Townsend continued to sound the alarm on terror groups thriving in ungoverned spaces in Africa, telling Congress earlier this year that the United States "may be backsliding" in its fight against al-Shabab terrorists since former President Donald Trump decided to pull all U.S. troops from Somalia during his final days in office.

In January, Townsend told VOA in an exclusive interview that he thought there are "more effective and efficient ways" to fight al-Shabab than commuting in and out of the country for missions. Less than four months later, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin signed an order to deploy hundreds of U.S. troops back to Somalia.

Austin, who presided over the ceremony, said Africa is on the front lines of many of this century's most pressing threats. He warned that "autocracy is on the march," with Russia and China "working to tighten their grip on the continent."

"Russia is peddling cheap weapons and backing mercenary forces. That's yet another reminder of Moscow's willingness to sow chaos and threaten the rules-based international order  and it goes far beyond [Russian President Vladimir] Putin's reckless invasion of Ukraine," he said.
Australia says its defense force must be "as potent as possible" as China intensifies its military drills near Taiwan.

Speaking on Tuesday, Australian Defense Minister and acting Prime Minister, Richard Marles, said Beijings military buildup was of "enormous" concern and has shaped the strategic circumstances of the region.

Tensions have escalated since U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit last week to Taiwan, an island China claims as its own.

In response, Beijing has launched drills in the Taiwan Strait, deploying jets and warships, and firing several ballistic missiles.

Marles said that Chinas military activities were of "significant" concern.

At the weekend, Australia joined the United States and Japan to condemn the escalation in tensions. But Beijing insisted it was the "victim" of diplomatic bullying.

Last week, Australia announced a review of its military capabilities for the next decade.

Marles told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. that Chinas growing assertiveness has become an immense security and political challenge for the Canberra government and its allies.

"It is the single biggest fact(or) which shapes the strategic environment of our region, arguably the world," he said. "It is certainly one of the key fact(ors) in shaping Australias strategic circumstances and it is why we need to make sure that we are building a defense force which is as capable as possible, which is as potent as possible so that we can keep Australians safe."

Australia has a One China policy that does not support Taiwanese independence. Officials have said that Canberra does not back any unilateral action on either side of the Taiwan Strait, which would change the status quo.

Tensions over Taiwan join a long list of disputes and grievances that have unsettled Australias relationship with its biggest trading partner.

There have been allegations of Chinese interference in Australian affairs, concerns about democracy in Hong Kong, and Beijings ambitions in the South China Sea and the Pacific. The two sides also have clashed over Canberras call for an inquiry into the origins of COVID-19, which was first detected in China.

Analysts have said China has sought to punish Canberra with a range of restrictions on Australian commodities.

Beijing has accused Australia of "anti-China" hysteria.

The recently elected Labor government in Canberra has said it was on a mission to repair its fractured ties with China, but experts have said that tensions over Taiwan have shown it will be a delicate process.
U.S. President Joe Biden pledged more federal help to flood-ravaged eastern Kentucky on Monday after touring the devastation, which he linked to climate change.

In the sweltering afternoon heat, Biden walked with families through the wreckage of their homes in an unincorporated community in the state's rural southeast.

One family saw their prefabricated home ripped from its cinderblock foundation and thrown on its side by the waters. Rows and rows of sodden corn, planted in neat lines, lay collapsed in the front yard.

In another family, two young boys, not yet school-aged, squirmed under the president's attention as their mother held them back from a new lake that appeared as the rain poured down. The new body of water lay a stone's throw from where their home had once stood, before it washed away. It slumped on the other side of the water, smashed into a small hill.

"No one has ever seen anything like the historic flooding that hit us on the night of July 26," Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said. "Hours of rainfall hammered these mountains, sending walls of debris-clogged water crashing through homes and businesses, sweeping them clear off their foundations, crashing them into bridges. And for some, their home is just gone. We don't even know where it is. Maybe not one scrap that we can locate."

Biden offered extensive support.

"We're staying  the federal government, along with the state and county and the city  we are staying until everyone is back to where they were," he said after visiting with families in Lost Creek, Kentucky, affected by the flooding.

He said the objective is not to "just to get back to where we were, it's to get back to better than where we were."

At least 37 people were killed in the flooding last week after storms dropped up to 26 centimeters of rain in some areas of eastern Kentucky in just 48 hours. Beshear said Monday that authorities expect to add at least one more death to the total.

Earlier Monday, Biden told a briefing with state and federal officials on the emergency response that climate change is leading to more weather disasters.

"As you all know, we've suffered the consequence of climate change, a significant number of weather catastrophes around the nation," Biden said.

Senate Democrats on Sunday passed an economic package that includes nearly $400 billion to fight climate change.

The administration describes the Inflation Reduction Act as making the "largest investment ever in combating the existential crisis of climate change."

It earmarks $369 billion for, among other things, working toward energy security and creating jobs manufacturing solar panels, wind turbines and electric vehicles in the United States with American labor.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre expressed concern about the increasing effects of climate change, saying, "The floods in Kentucky and extreme weather all around the country are yet another reminder of the intensifying and accelerating impacts of climate change and the urgent need to invest in making our communities more resilient to it."

Biden issued a major disaster declaration for Kentucky last week, allowing federal funds to be used in the rescue and cleanup efforts.

Jean-Pierre said the Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided more than $3.1 million in relief funds to Kentucky.

Beshear praised Biden's response to the flooding, saying Monday the president "acted with greater speed for that federal disaster declaration as well as for individual assistance to our families than I have ever seen."

Biden, who is traveling with his wife, Jill Biden, arrived in Kentucky Monday morning and was greeted by Beshear and his wife, Britainy Beshear.

They drove through parts of Breathitt County that were most affected by the storm and afterwards attended a briefing on the flooding's impact with first responders, also meeting with families who lost their homes in the disaster.

The National Weather Service has warned of the possibility of more flooding in Kentucky this week because of the potential for thunderstorms through Thursday.

This is Biden's second visit to Kentucky as president. He traveled to the state in December to view damage from tornadoes that killed 81 people.

Beshear said Monday "the trials and tribulations we Kentuckians have faced are hard to understand."

He added, however, that perhaps the state is better able to handle the crises "because of how we lean on one another in times of need."

Some information in this report comes from The Associated Press and Reuters.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday to raise concerns that tensions with neighboring Rwanda could spread instability in the region. Political analysts say the United States is also concerned about Russia and China's access to rare earth minerals in the DRC.

The top priority during Blinken's two-day stay to Congo is pushing for peace between the DRC and Rwanda, which Kinshasa accuses of backing militia groups.

Blinken is visiting the DRC as part of his second trip to Africa as the U.S. top diplomat. The trip follows a visit by his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, his first to Congo.

Analysts say the Cold War rivals are vying for influence in the DRC, which is marred with violence and conflict in its east because of the regions rare minerals. Macharia Munene, an expert on international relations, said its part of a power play.

"The strategic resources, minerals and other critical ones that are used for industrial development as well as weaponry and technology, and Congo is extremely rich in these things so whoever can deny those things to other people becomes very powerful," he said.

Munene said the conflicts in Congo are destabilizing the country along with neighboring Rwanda and by extension other nearby nations. He said the issue is one of concern to the United States.

"You never know who is going to come up and take advantage of the situation, to the detriment of the U.S. interest," he said. "Now as [a] destabilizing force not just in eastern Congo but in Rwanda, maybe a bit of Burundi."

Another top issue amid the long-standing rivalry between DRC and Rwanda is the re-emergence of M23 rebels. Kinshasa says Kigali is backing the rebels, but Rwanda has repeatedly denied the allegations. Congos army, along with a United Nations mission in Congo known as MONUSCO, defeated the M23 in 2013. In November of last year, its forces began to reappear.

Their reappearance is threatening human rights in Congo, according to the United Nations. Separately, Amnesty Internationals advocacy director for Africa, Kate Hixon, said the U.S. should remain focused on rights issues.

"Blinken's visit is a welcome engagement but only a few raise human rights issues with Congolese and Rwanda counterparts; the fact that it is Blinken's second visit to the continent two years into his tenure demonstrates the importance of [the] DRC to the U.S. human rights policy," she said.

Congolese officials say such high-profile visits to the DRC are raising hope that their country is beginning to attract developed nations. Congo's presidential adviser, Jean Jacques Elaka, told VOA that such renewed interest could help Kinshasa get back on its feet.

"His coming shows Congo is beginning to be attractive; I can't begin to mention leaders from nations all over the world who have visited Congo this year and last year. There were many," Elaka said.

As part of hios Africa tour, Blinken is scheduled to visit Rwanda on Thursday. He has already visited South Africa on his trip.

Margaret Besheer contributed to this report.
Powerful explosions erupted at a Russian air base in Ukraines Crimean Peninsula on Tuesday, killing one person and wounding five others, authorities said, but the cause of the blasts was unknown.

Witnesses reported hearing at least 12 blasts shortly after 3:15 p.m. local time Tuesday.

Russias Defense Ministry said "several aviation ammunition stores blew up at the Saki base in the region seized by Russia in 2014, but it emphasized the installation had not been attacked and no aircraft had been damaged.

Ukraine denied responsibility.

Of course not. What do we have to do with this, Ukrainian presidential aide Mykhailo Podolyak said. A statement from Ukraines defense ministry said it once again draws attention to fire safety rules.

Shortly after the explosions there was widespread speculation on Ukrainian social networks that Kyivs forces had hit the base with long-range missiles. Sunbathers fled a nearby beach as huge clouds of smoke from the explosions rose over the horizon, while authorities sealed off the area around the base within a radius of five kilometers.

Ukraines forces have not attacked Crimea during Russias offensive, now in its sixth month, with officials in Moscow warning Ukraine that any attack on Crimea would trigger massive retaliation, including strikes on "decision-making centers" in Kyiv.

But a small-scale, makeshift drone hit the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in the Crimean port of Sevastopol last month, an attack blamed on Ukrainian saboteurs. The Saki base has been used by Russian warplanes to strike areas in Ukraine's southern region.

In his nightly video address Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said people should focus on Crimea.

"The Black Sea region cannot be safe while Crimea is occupied," he said, reiterating Kyiv's position that Crimea must be returned to Ukraine.

Also Tuesday, the U.S. State Department approved $89 million to help equip and train 100 Ukraine teams to clear landmines and unexploded bombs, a U.S. official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the State Department.

British intelligence had warned Monday that Russia was using anti-personnel mines in an effort to defend and hold its defense lines in the eastern Donbas region, with resulting risks to both the military and local civilian populations.

The demining training will be done by contractors, specialists and nonprofits, the official said.

"By our estimates, 160,000 square kilometers of Ukrainian land need demining, which is about the size of Virginia, Maryland and Connecticut combined," said Andriy Yermak, a top Zelenskyy aide.

Ukrainian officials said earlier Tuesday that in the last day at least three Ukrainian civilians were killed and 23 were wounded by Russian shelling, including an attack not far from the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Dnipropetrovsk Gov. Valentyn Reznichenko said Russian forces fired more than 120 rockets at the town of Nikopol, which is across the Dnieper River from the nuclear facility. Several apartment buildings and industrial sites were damaged, he said.

In recent days, Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of shelling the power station, the biggest nuclear plant in Europe, and officials have been worrying about a nuclear catastrophe.

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Armys General Staff said early Tuesday that a Russian offensive is continuing toward the hub cities of Bakhmut and Avdiyivka in the eastern Donetsk region as Moscow tries to inflict maximum losses on Ukrainian forces.

Ukraine said the Russian Air Force was bombarding military facilities in the direction of Donetsk in support of artillery and other ground operations aimed at dislodging Ukrainian units from the front lines.

But Kyivs military planners said their forces had repelled reconnaissance and offensive operations in a handful of settlements around Ivano-Daryivka, Bakhmut, and Zaitsevo.

They said Russian forces had withdrawn after unsuccessful pushes around Avdiyivka and Krasnohorivka.



Some information in this report came from the Associated Press and Reuters.
Federal officials are saying little so far about Mondays FBI search of former President Donald Trumps home in Mar-a-Lago, Florida, but Trump and one of his sons have said the move is part of an investigation into Trumps removal of official documents from the White House.

While such a search of a former U.S. presidents residence would appear to be unprecedented, investigations into the removal or unlawful retention of classified information is not.

Since 2005, the FBI and the Justice Department have launched at least 11 such investigations, some targeting high-profile former U.S. officials, including a former national security adviser and a former CIA director.

Others who have been prosecuted and who have pleaded guilty or were convicted include Defense Department employees, defense contractors and employees or contractors with the FBI, the CIA and the National Security Agency.

Heres a list of some notable cases:

April 2005  Former U.S. national security adviser Sandy Berger pleaded guilty to knowingly removing classified documents from the National Archives and Records Administration. Berger admitted to concealing and removing five copies of a classified document from the Archives in September and October 2003.

Berger also admitted to concealing and removing handwritten notes in violation of the Archives policy. In September 2005, Berger was ordered to pay a $50,000 fine and give up his security clearance for three years.

March 2013 Retired Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Pierce Bishop was arrested in Hawaii and charged with one count of unlawfully retaining documents related to the national defense and one count of willfully communicating national defense information to a person not entitled to receive such information. Court papers alleged Bishop, who was working for a defense contractor, stored 12 documents containing classified information at his residence. The documents further allege Bishop willfully communicated that information to a 27-year-old Chinese woman with whom he had a relationship.

Bishop pleaded guilty in March 2014. He was sentenced to more than seven years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.

March 2015  Retired U.S. Army General David Petraeus, a former CIA director, pleaded guilty to one count of unauthorized removal and retention of classified material. The plea followed revelations that Petraeus shared some of the materials with his biographer and mistress.

Petraeus was sentenced to two years of probation and a $100,000 fine.

July 2015  U.S. Navy reservist Bryan Nishimura was sentenced to two years of probation and a $7,500 fine after he pleaded guilty to downloading and storing classified documents from his deployment to Afghanistan in 2007-2008 on his personal devices and media. A search of his home in May 2012 turned up numerous classified materials, both in digital and hard copy formats.

August 2016  Former National Security Agency contractor Harold Martin was arrested for what federal prosecutors described as a theft of top-secret government information that was breathtaking in its longevity and scale."

Martin was indicted in February 2017 on charges of stealing and retaining classified documents and other material, according to a statement from the Justice Department. The department further alleged Martin "stole and retained" highly classified top secret documents covering 20 years, keeping them in his home and in his vehicle.

According to the indictment, the documents stolen and retained by Martin contained NSA planning information and information on intelligence collection targets. Other documents, from U.S. Cyber Command, contained information on U.S. military capabilities, some to be used in specific operations, and documents about gaps in U.S. cyber capabilities.

Martin pleaded guilty to the willful retention of national defense information in March 2019. In July 2019, Martin was sentenced to nine years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

January 2017  Former defense contractor and sailor Weldon Marshall was arrested for unlawfully retaining classified information, stored on compact discs and computer hard drives that he kept at his home in Texas. The information included classified documents from Marshalls time with the U.S. Navy and from his time as a defense contractor in Afghanistan.

Marshall pleaded guilty in March 2018. He was sentenced in June 2018 to more than three years in prison followed by a year of supervised release.

January 2018  Former CIA officer Jerry Chun Shing Lee, also known as Zhen Cheng Li, was arrested on charges of unlawful retention of national defense information. Prosecutors alleged that Lee, while staying at hotels in Hawaii and Virginia, was in possession of two, small books that contained handwritten notes that included the true names and phone numbers of assets and covert CIA employees, operational notes from asset meetings, operational meeting locations and locations of covert facilities.

Lee was indicted in May 2018 on two counts of unlawfully retaining documents related to the national defense, as well as one count of conspiracy to deliver national defense information to a foreign government.

Lee pleaded guilty and was sentenced in November 2019 to 19 years in prison for conspiring to communicate, deliver and transmit national defense information to China.

May 2018  Former CIA contractor Reynaldo Regis pleaded guilty to charges of unauthorized removal and retention of classified materials, as well as to making false statements to federal law enforcement officers. Prosecutors said during his time at the CIA, Reyes conducted unauthorized searches of classified databases and copied the information into dozens of notebooks, which he then took home.

In November 2018, Reyes was sentenced to 90 days in jail. Regis lawyer later told the Associated Press and other news outlets that his client had no nefarious purpose. It was just a mistake.

August 2019  Former National Security Agency (NSA) employee Elizabeth Jo Shirley was arrested in Mexico City on charges of parental kidnapping and was later charged with retaining top secret documents on her electronic devices, both in Mexico and some stored at her home in West Virginia.

Prosecutors additionally alleged that Shirley sought to offer the information to the Russian government.

In July 2020, Shirley pleaded guilty to one count of willful retention of national defense information and to one count of international parental kidnapping. She was sentenced in January 2021 to more than eight years in prison for the willful retention of national defense information. She was also sentenced to three years in prison on the kidnapping charges.

June 2020  Investigators conducted a search of the Hawaii home of Asia Janay Lavarello, a U.S. Defense Department employee, following her return from a temporary assignment to the U.S. Embassy in Manila. Investigators found numerous classified documents, writings, and notes relating to the national defense or foreign relations and said the documents  first seen by guests at a dinner party hosted by Lavarello  had not been transported by secure diplomatic pouch, as required.

Lavarello pleaded guilty to knowingly removing classified information in July 2021. She was sentenced in February 2022 to three months in prison and a $5,500 fine.

May 2021  Kendra Kingsbury, an employee at the FBIs Kansas City division, was indicted on two counts of having unauthorized possession of documents relating to the national defense. The court documents allege Kingsbury removed sensitive material and classified documents from her workplace over a period of more than 12 years and kept them at her home. One of the documents included information on al-Qaida members in Africa, including a suspected associate of al-Qaida founder Osama bin Laden.
A fire at an oil terminal in western Cuba has spread to a third tank as firefighters struggled to put out the blaze, officials said Monday.

One firefighter has died, and 16 others are missing since the fire at the port of Matanzas began Friday night after a lightning strike. Authorities say more than 100 others have been injured, including 24 people who remain hospitalized.

The lightning strike initially caused a fire at just one oil tank, but that quickly spread early Saturday to a second one, triggering explosions at the facility. The explosions led to the fatality and the missing firefighters.

Officials say the fire spread to a third storage tank late Sunday and is now threatening a fourth one out of the original eight tanks at the facility.

The governments of Mexico and Venezuela have sent teams to help local firefighters put out the blaze.

Authorities are using planes, helicopters and water cannons to try to stop the fire.

Governor of Matanzas province Mario Sabines told state TV that the containment effort is "very complex," according to Agence France-Presse. He said teams are preparing an operation to douse the flames with foam but said "this could take a while."

Officials say more than 5,000 people have been evacuated from around the port.

The port of Matanzas receives crude oil and fuel imports, much of which are used to generate electricity on the island.

Smoke from the fire can be seen in Havana, located more than 100 kilometers away, according to The Associated Press.

Health officials are warning residents to wear masks in smoke-affected areas and to avoid the rain. Officials say the cloud of smoke contains poisonous chemicals, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide.

The fire comes as Cuba is already facing shortages of electricity and fuel that has led authorities to impose energy blackouts. The power outages and economic troubles helped spark anti-government protests last year.

Some information in this report came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.


Guatemalan prosecutors charged journalist Jose Ruben Zamora with crimes including money laundering and blackmail.

Zamora was arrested last week and the offices of El Periodico, a newspaper he founded that has accused key political figures in the country of corruption, were raided.

The publication's staff denounced the actions as retaliation for its previous reporting on President Alejandro Giammattei, as well as Attorney General Consuelo Porras, whom the United States designated earlier this year for "significant corruption."

Prosecutor Cinthya Monterroso on Monday charged Zamora with money laundering, conspiracy, influence peddling and blackmail.

At the time of his arrest, a spokesperson for the Public Prosecutor's Office told AFP Zamora was being investigated "not for his journalist work, but as a businessman."

According to Monday's charges, Zamora had asked a banker to help him deposit 300,000 Quetzals ($37,500) into the Guatemalan banking system in order to hide "the true origin" of the funds.

At the hearing, prosecutors presented as evidence the cash Zamora had allegedly delivered to the banker via a courier.

Monterroso said the banker, Ronald Garcia, had told prosecutors that Zamora had possibly obtained the money from several businessmen whom he had "blackmailed" not to publish negative information about them.

Zamora has said that the case against him was a "set-up" by Giammattei and Porras.

The Guatemalan government has distanced itself from Zamora's arrest, which has sparked a wave of calls to respect freedom of expression, as well as warnings of attacks against independent media.

In June, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights added Guatemala to its list of countries where it has noted serious human rights violations, a charge Giammattei rejects. Cuba, Venezuela and Nicaragua are also on the list.

The public prosecutor's office, under the leadership of Porras, has been criticized for arresting and prosecuting several anti-mafia judges and prosecutors.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani began a three-day state visit to Iraq Monday by meeting host President Barham Salih, amid hopes of increasing the volume of trade between the two countries, despite U.S. economic sanctions that were imposed on Tehran in August and November of last year.

It's not clear how far Iraq will go to strengthen economic ties with Tehran, but Iraq has been Iran's most important trading partner in recent years.

An Iraqi military band played bagpipes as an honor guard welcomed Rouhani to the Qasr as Salam palace in Baghdad's Green Zone to confer with Salih and other top leaders. Arab media reported that Salih did not travel to the airport to meet Rouhani, in what some were interpreting as a minor snub.

Rouhani made a special visit to the revered Shiite mausoleum of Imam Moussa Kazim. The Iranian president is hoping to meet Iraq's top Shiite dignitary, Ayatollah Ali Sistani, although Arab media reported that it was not clear if the ayatollah would see him. Sistani has not met with foreign political leaders since 2015.

During a televised news conference, Rouhani and Salih talked about strengthening political and economic ties between the two countries, which fought a brutal and bloody eight-year war, from 1980-1988, in which more than a million people died.

Salih told reporters that Iraq has been the "battleground for conflicts between regional and international powers," adding it is imperative that "regional states cooperate to combat terrorism for mutual economic benefit."

Salih said that he hopes that Iraq's neighbors understand that stability in his country is important for everyone's interest. He adds that many claim that Iraq is in a bad geographic location, but he says that his country has the good fortune to have Iran, Turkey and the Arab states for neighbors.

Despite U.S. economic sanctions placed on Tehran by the Trump administration last year, and efforts by Washington to urge regional states like Iraq to observe them, Rouhani appeared to be eager to increase trade with Baghdad.

Rouhani said that there are many possible fields of cooperation between Iran and Iraq, including trade, investment, joint industrial and trade zones along with tourism. He stresses the need to strengthen cooperation over energy, including oil, gas and electricity, along with industrial cooperation, and cooperation in road, rail and water links.

Brian Hook, the U.S. Special Representative for Iran and senior policy adviser to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, told Alhurra that "you have to question the motive" of Rouhani coming to Iraq.

"I think what Iran would ultimately like to see happen is Iraq turn into a province of Iran so that they can create a military highway across the northern Middle East that the Iran Revolutionary Guard Corps can use to ferry missiles and weapons," he said, adding, "President Rouhani coming to Iraq is not in the interest of the Iraqi people."

He also warned that the U.S. waiver granted to Iraq from sanctions against Iran is dependant on Iraq reducing dependence on Iranian electricity. He said there has been some progress on that front, but said, "We need to continue to see progress."

Hilal Khashan, who teaches political science at the American University of Beirut, told VOA that he doesn't think that the U.S. will be able to stop trade between Iraq and Iran, despite clamping down on the banking sector.

"They keep trading. There is no doubt about it and I don't think the U.S. can stop this trade; however, the volume of trade between Iraq and Turkey is significantly larger than the volume of trade between Iraq and Iran, Khashan said. Iranian products are not of good quality and they do not compare to Turkish goods."

Khashan said he thinks that some members of the Iraqi government "have resisted increasing trade with Iran" because of the low quality of Iranian goods, and because of "ill-feelings over Iran's unwillingness to provide electricity to border regions when it was most needed."

Iraqi analyst Hani Ashour, however, told Al Arabiya TV that he thinks Iran may well succeed in "increasing trade from previous yearly highs of $12 billion to $20 billion," despite U.S. economic sanctions.

Ashour said he argues that the U.S. "may have a tacit agreement with Iran to avoid conflict over trade with Iraq in return for Tehran agreeing not to place pressure on its political allies in Baghdad to ask the U.S. to withdraw its troops from the country."

Alhurra contributed to this report.
A Brooklyn man has pled guilty to burglary and criminal possession of a weapon in connection with a March incident in the town of Mentz.

Cayuga County Acting District Attorney Brittany Grome Antonacci announced Monday that Hassan Glenn, 34, pled guilty to one count of first-degree burglary and one count of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. The charges are Class B and C armed violent felonies, respectively.

Glenn admitted to entering an enclosed porch in Mentz on March 2 with a loaded 9 mm handgun, Grome Antonacci said. Inside, he stole a pair of snow pants and a crossbow. He then fled from law enforcement, and during their pursuit was observed throwing the handgun near the New York State Thruway. Officers recovered methamphetamine during the pursuit, Grome Antonacci added.

Glenn faces eight years in prison followed by five years of post-release supervision. He will be sentenced before Judge Thomas G. Leone on Oct. 13.

Glenn was released from parole in 2021 after serving part of a 1.5- to three-year prison sentence for an assault conviction in New York City.

Thanks to the quick actions of the New York State Police and the Cayuga County Sheriffs Office, this individual was quickly apprehended and brought to justice," Grome Antonacci said in her office's news release. "The District Attorneys Office has made it a priority to focus on the prosecution of violent felony offenders and has increased our efforts to secure convictions of these individuals. Any individual who brings an illegal firearm into our County will be held accountable.
A senior U.N. official said Monday that a tenuous cease-fire between Israel and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants is holding, as it enters a second day.



I want to make the council aware of the following: the cease-fire is fragile, U.N. Middle East peace envoy Tor Wennesland told Security Council members from Jerusalem. Any resumption of hostilities will only have devastating consequences for Palestinians and Israelis and make any political progress on key issues elusive."



The council convened Monday in an emergency session at the request of China, France, Ireland, Norway and the United Arab Emirates to discuss intensive violence that erupted Friday as Israel carried out strikes on Islamic Jihad positions in the Gaza Strip.



The militants responded, firing more than a thousand rockets at Israel.



Wennesland put the initial toll at 46 Palestinians killed, including 15 children and four women. Another 360 were injured. On the Israeli side, 70 people were injured. Many houses sustained damage, and several were destroyed.



The envoy welcomed the truce that went into effect late Sunday. It was secured through Egyptian and U.N. mediation, with assistance from Qatar, the United States, Jordan and the Palestinian Authority, to de-escalate the situation.



Together, these efforts helped prevent the outbreak of a full-scale war and allowed for the delivery of much-needed humanitarian relief to the people of Gaza starting earlier today, Wennesland said.



U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the cease-fire announcement Sunday and called on all sides to abide by the agreement.



Senior Palestinian militants killed



Israels U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan said his government acted pre-emptively Friday moments before an imminent terrorist attack.



We took action solely to protect our civilians and defend our country, Gilad told the council. Any other claim is a flat out lie.



The Israel Defense Forces said they killed senior Islamic Jihad leaders, including Khaled Mansour and Tayseer Jabari.



Israel acted only against the terrorists of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Gilad said. Not against the people of Gaza, not against Hamas and not against the Palestinian Authority. Only against the PIJ."



In what was the worst military escalation in more than a year, Israel said the militants fired around 1,100 rockets at their territory  most of which its Iron Dome system stopped. Israel says about 200 others fell short and struck inside the Gaza Strip, causing some of the Palestinian casualties. Israels army, the IDF, said it hit at least 170 militant targets.



Palestinian ambassador Riyad Mansour said Israels right to security has become a license to kill and it must be revoked.



In three days we lost 15 children, he said, noting that one of them, a 5-year-old girl, had, in her brief lifetime, survived two wars, but died in the third.



Israel kills our people because it can; when will the world show them they cannot? he asked council members.



He said the continuous cycles of violence are not sustainable and urged the Security Council to act on their existing resolutions to advance a two-state solution.



Your actions need to be determined by the outcome you are seeking, he said.



U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield urged the 15-nation council to unconditionally repudiate the terrorism of Palestinian Islamic Jihad. She said Washington and many other governments have designated it as a terror organization and she described it as an Iranian proxy group. She said the group had delayed the implementation of the truce.



We hope that the cease-fire holds. And we will continue working to prevent further violence, Thomas-Greenfield said. And we all know that the best way to achieve lasting peace is through a comprehensive solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.



During his visit to the region last month, President Joe Biden reaffirmed the United States commitment to a two-state solution.



Power outages



The Israeli offensive led to the total closure of two critical crossing points into Gaza for six days.



Gaza was on the brink of a humanitarian collapse last evening when the cease-fire came into effect, U.N. envoy Wennesland said, noting that basic food, medical supplies and fuel were unable to enter the strip.



On Saturday, Gazas only power plant shut down because it ran out of fuel, causing rolling power outages of more than 20 hours per day and impacting homes, hospitals, water desalination and wastewater treatment plants.



Wennesland said the cease-fire has led to the reopening of the Erez and Kerem Shalom crossings, and as of 8 p.m. local time Monday, 23 fuel trucks had entered Gaza, enabling the power plant to resume normal operations.
A Russian offensive is continuing toward the hub cities of Bakhmut and Avdiyivka in the eastern Donetsk region as the enemy tries to inflict maximum losses on Ukrainian forces, the Ukrainian Armys General Staff said early on August 9.

It said the Russian Air Force was bombarding military facilities in the direction of Donetsk in support of artillery and other ground operations aimed at dislodging Ukrainian units from the front lines.

British intelligence warned on August 8 that Russia was using anti-personnel mines in an effort to defend and hold its defense lines in the Donbas, with resulting risks to both the military and local civilian populations.

Battlefield reports from either side in the rapidly developing conflict are difficult to confirm.

But Kyivs military planners said their forces had repelled reconnaissance and offensive operations in a handful of settlements around Ivano-Daryivka, Bakhmut, and Zaitsevo.

They said Russian forces had withdrawn after unsuccessful pushes around Avdiyivka and Krasnohorivka.

Kyiv said two Russian warships armed with Kalibr cruise missiles are poised for battle off Ukraines Black Sea coast.

Meanwhile, international concern persisted over the weekend shelling of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant over the potential for a disaster at Europes largest atomic facility.

The head of the Ukrainian nuclear power company Enerhoatom has urged that Zaporizhzhya be declared a military-free zone to avoid nuclear catastrophe.

Zaporizhzhya was seized early in the five-month-old invasion but continues to be manned by Ukrainian staff.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that any attack to a nuclear plant is a suicidal thing in calling on August 8 for international inspectors to be given access to Zaporizhzhya.

The Russian-installed head of the local administration was quoted by Interfax as saying on August 8 that the facility was operating in normal mode.

Washington and the World Bank announced more support for Ukraine on the heels of U.S. President Joe Bidens committing this week to the single largest package of security assistance under his so-called drawdown authority with $1 billion in aid that includes long-range weapons and medical transport vehicles.

The U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, said on August 8 that Washington would provide $4.5 billion more in economic funding, nearly doubling the budgetary support so far since Russias invasion began in February.

The World Bank said it will implement the U.S. grant, which it said is aimed at urgent needs including healthcare, pensions, and social payments.

Also, Reuters cited a document in which Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, and the United Nations pledged to ensure a 10-nautical-mile buffer zone for ships exporting Ukrainian grain through the Black Sea.

The long-awaited procedures are part of intense international efforts to unblock millions of tons of grain stuck at Ukrainian ports since the invasion began.

Some information in this report came from Reuters and the Asssoiated Press.
Tunisias new and controversial constitution goes into effect later this month, cementing the vast powers seized a year ago by its author, President Kais Saied  though fewer than three in 10 voters cast their ballots in a July referendum. From Tunis, Lisa Bryant reports the North African countrys future depends on many factors  including whether Tunisians will defend the Arab Springs only democracy.
Authorities in Pakistan suspended a mainstream television channel Monday in what critics denounced as an illegal move to stifle media freedom in the country.



Private Pakistani cable operators were ordered by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to block the transmission of ARY News immediately till further notice.



The state regulator later sent a formal show cause notice to the broadcaster, accusing it of airing false, hateful and seditious content. It went on to argue that ARY News aired comments early Monday on one of its shows by a spokesman for ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan which PEMRA said were tantamount to inciting [the] ranks and files of armed forces towards revolt.

PEMRA went on to say in the letter that airing of such content on your news channel shows either a weak editorial in the content or the licensee is intentionally indulged in providing its platform to such individuals who intend to spread malice and hatred against the state institution for their vested interest.

Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Party (PTI) accused the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of sponsoring a social media campaign aimed at proving the opposition party is anti-army.



The TV channel rejected PEMRAs charges as unlawful, and so did legal experts, journalists and PTI leaders.

CEO says channel shut for reporting truth

Salman Iqbal, founder and CEO of one of the most popular channels in Pakistan, tweeted that his ARY News gets shut down just because we reported a true story.



Muhammad Ahmad Pansota, a lawyer and legal analyst, condemned PEMRA for suspending ARY News without any legal justification.



In a tweet, he called freedom of the press a constitutionally guaranteed right that must not be tampered with by anyone, including the state.

Sedition allegations, critics say, are often used to intimidate and harass media outlets and journalists critical of the powerful military institution.

Mubashir Zaidi, a prime-time television anchor, advised the government against suspending any channel, noting such an action is in violation of recent judicial orders.

"But in this case, shutdown happened ahead of the notice, and the action will be declared illegal by the courts sooner or later, Zaid tweeted.



Media watchdogs also suspect the military is behind a recent campaign of intimidation and harassment against journalists in Pakistan  charges the government and army reject.

Multiple cases of intimidation



In recent weeks, cases of intimidation were registered against several Pakistani journalists for questioning the militarys alleged role in the national politics.



France-based Reporters Without Borders (RSF) cautioned the Pakistan army high command last month against further harassment of the media, saying such tactics would seriously undermine democracy in Pakistan.



The many cases of harassment that RSF has registered in the past two months have one thing in common  all the journalists concerned had, in one way or another, criticized the armys role in Pakistani politics, said Daniel Bastard, head of RSFs Asia-Pacific desk.

It is clear from the data that the armed forces have launched a major campaign to intimidate critical journalists. This kind of interference, which is absolutely intolerable, must stop at once or else the chief of the army staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, will be held directly responsible for the decline in press freedom in Pakistan, Bastard said.



Khan alleges the United States colluded with Sharif and other opposition parties to oust him through a parliamentary vote of no-confidence in April, charges that Washington rejects vehemently.



The deposed prime minister has also accused the military leadership of supporting what he claims was a U.S.-sponsored regime change plot against his nearly four-year-old government allegedly provoked by his efforts to conduct Pakistans foreign policy independent of Washington influence.
Israeli troops killed three Palestinians and wounded dozens in a shootout Tuesday during an arrest raid in the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian Health Ministry said.



The shootout came a day after a cease-fire ended three days of fighting between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group in the Gaza Strip.



Israeli police said security forces encircled the home of Ibrahim al-Nabulsi, who they say was wanted for a string of shootings in the West Bank earlier this year. They confirmed that al-Nabulsi and another Palestinian militant were killed in a shootout at the scene, and that troops found arms and explosives in his home.



The Israeli military said that troops came under attack from Palestinians throwing rocks and explosives, and that soldiers responded with live fire. It confirmed Palestinians were shot, but did not elaborate on their condition.



The Palestinian Health Ministry said three people were killed  al-Nabulsi, Islam Sabouh and Hussein Jamal Taha  and at least 40 were wounded.



Israel has conducted near nightly arrest raids in the West Bank in recent months as part of a crackdown on Palestinian militant groups, foremost Islamic Jihad, in the aftermath of a string of deadly attacks targeting Israelis earlier this year that left 19 people dead. Dozens of Palestinians have been killed in clashes with Israeli troops during these arrest raids.



Last week, Israel arrested Bassam al-Saadi, a senior Islamic Jihad militant in the West Bank city of Jenin, during one of the nightly operations. The group said it was going "on alert," and on Friday Israel said it had launched a series of strikes on Islamic Jihad targets in the Gaza Strip in response to an "imminent threat" by the militant group.

During the three days of Gaza fighting, at least 46 Palestinians were killed, including 16 children and four women, and 311 were wounded, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. Twelve of those killed were Islamic Jihad militants, one was from a smaller armed group, and two were Hamas-affiliated policemen who were not taking part in the fighting, according to the armed factions.



Israel estimated that a total of 47 Palestinians were killed, including 14 killed by misfired Islamic Jihad rockets. It said 20 militants and seven civilians died in Israeli airstrikes and that it was still investigating six deaths.



Israel's caretaker prime minister, Yair Lapid, applauded the cooperation by Israeli security personnel and said that al-Nabulsi's killing "was another step in our uncompromising struggle against terrorism."



Nabil Abu Rdeneh, spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, warned that continued violence could further ignite the region, and accused the Israeli government of shedding Palestinian blood to secure internal political capital ahead of November parliamentary elections.



Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war and the Palestinians seek it as the heartland of their future state. Israel views the West Bank as the biblical and historical heartland of the Jewish people, and has constructed dozens of settlements, now home to over 400,000 Israelis.



The Palestinians and much of the international community consider Israel's West Bank settlements a violation of international law and an obstacle to a peaceful resolution of the decades-long conflict.
Polls have closed across Kenya for presidential, legislative and local elections, and it appears voting across the country has gone smoothly, despite some irregularities in the early voting hours.



Some Kenyan voters remained in line to register their votes after the polls closed across the country at 5 p.m. local time.



In some polling centers, vote counting already is underway.



Kenya recorded a 30 percent voter turnout six hours after the polls opened and the Kenya Election Commission said it expected a total voter turnout of about 60 percent. At least 22 million people are eligible to vote.

The commission conducted most voter identification using the integrated election systems that help identify the voters. Some voters across the country reported biometric voter registration was not working or was taking a long time to identify voters.



The electoral agency said 238 polling stations out of 46,232 used manual registers to identify voters, allowing at least 100,000 voters to cast their ballots.



Election for two governors and four parliamentary seats was suspended because of errors printed on the ballots. The voters in two counties and four constituencies expressed their displeasure with the electoral agency order.

One candidate for parliament was arrested for allegedly fighting at a polling station and another parliamentary candidate was said to be in possession of machetes at a voting center.

President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration is coming to an end and Tuesdays voting will result in a new government. The presidential results are expected to trickle in as soon as the polling stations count the ballots.



The electoral commission has seven days to announce the presidential vote winner. The president-elect must get a 50 percent vote to take charge of the government and the country's affairs.
Sri Lanka has asked China to defer the planned visit of a Chinese satellite tracking ship that has raised security concerns in India.

Controversy over the ships planned arrival close to Indian shores erupted late last month after New Delhi said that it carefully monitors developments affecting its economic and security interests with reference to the Chinese ship.

Sri Lankas Foreign Ministry said in a statement Monday that the Yuan Wang 5 was given permission last month to dock at the port of Hambantota Thursday through August 17 for replenishment. But subsequently in light of the need for further consultations, it has asked China to postpone the visit. It did not cite a reason for doing so.

The Yuan Wang 5 is described as a research and survey vessel, according to analytics website MarineTraffic. Security analysts say that that the ship is also packed with sophisticated systems to monitor satellite, rocket and missile launches.

It is loaded with very advanced sensors that can be used for surveillance, said defense analyst Rahul Bedi in New Delhi.

Responding to reports that Colombo has deferred the ships visit, Beijings Foreign Ministry spokesman, Wang Wenbin, said Monday, It is completely unjustified for certain countries to cite the so-called security concerns to pressure Sri Lanka.

Without mentioning India, he said that it was morally irresponsible to exploit Sri Lankas vulnerabilities when it is dealing with an economic crisis and urged relevant parties to see Chinas marine scientific research activities in a rational light and stop disrupting normal exchange between China and Sri Lanka.

The controversy underlines the diplomatic dilemma Sri Lanka faces in balancing ties with the rival Asian giants, whose help the tiny country needs to tide over an economic crisis.

Beijings expanding footprint in Sri Lanka over the last 15 years has long caused unease in India. In particular, New Delhi fears that the Chinese-built port of Hambantota could be used by Beijing as a strategic berth in the Indian Ocean. In 2017, Colombo leased the port to China for 99 years after it was unable to pay back its debt.

The port is among several infrastructure projects built by Beijing in Sri Lanka over the last decade, including railways and roads.

Over the last six months, as Sri Lanka battled it worst economic crisis and faces virtual bankruptcy, New Delhi reached out to help its neighbor, providing credit lines of $4 billion and crucial assistance that includes food, fuel, medicine and cooking gas. Analysts see it as an effort to build goodwill and recover some of the influence that India had lost in the country that is strategically located on its southern tip along busy shipping lanes.

As Sri Lanka negotiates with the International Monetary Fund for a bailout, it will also need to bring China on board for restructuring the roughly $5 billon debt it owes to Beijing.

For the time being, Sri Lanka appears to have bowed to Indian pressure, according to Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, executive director of the Center for Policy Alternatives in Colombo. I think we are just praying for time to cool off the tensions because the Chinese also will not want to be seen as backing down.

Colombo will need deft diplomacy to manage its ties with the two powers, whose relations have deteriorated in the past two years amid a military standoff in the Himalayan mountains. Sri Lanka will have to avoid a situation where the two countries see their ties with Colombo as a zero-sum game  either you are pro-Indian or you are pro-Chinese, according to Saravanamuttu.
As he strongly hints at another campaign for the White House in 2024, former U.S. President Donald Trump is facing major federal and state criminal investigations into his actions in the immediate aftermath of his failed reelection campaign in 2020.



Monday's unprecedented FBI raid at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida was the latest indication that investigators remain focused on the country's 45th president. Reports say the investigators were seeking classified documents he may have taken with him when he left Washington last year.



The search was court-authorized and was likely sanctioned at the highest levels of the Justice Department. But details of the search warrant filed by investigators and their justification for it are not yet publicly known. The White House says it was not given advance notice of the raid.



Under the Presidential Records Act of 1978, the official records of all presidents and vice presidents remain publicly owned, even after they leave office. The statute's premise is that the papers belong to the American public, not the individuals who served as the country's leaders.

About a year after he left office, Trump turned over to the National Archives 15 boxes of documents from his presidency, some of which were said to include classified papers. But investigators who searched Trump's office and opened a safe at his Florida seaside estate Monday carted away more documents that were not turned over in January.



Trump belittled the search, much as he has the election-related investigations, as an attempt to keep him from running again in 2024.



"These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents," the former president said in a statement.



"Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before," he said, contending the search was the result of "prosecutorial misconduct, the weaponization of the Justice System, and an attack by Radical Left Democrats who desperately don't want me to run for President in 2024."



He claimed such a event "could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries. Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before."



Trump retains a wide following among a base of Republican voters, although an array of Republican officials, including Mike Pence, Trump's vice president, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and others, have been broadly hinting they could seek the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.



Ongoing investigations



The Justice Department is also investigating Trump's role in instigating the riot at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, when about 2,000 of his supporters rampaged into the building to block lawmakers from certifying Democrat Joe Biden's victory in the 2020 presidential election. At a rally shortly beforehand, Trump urged supporters to walk to the Capitol and "fight like hell."



Despite White House aides and then-Attorney General William Barr repeatedly telling Trump there was no evidence of widespread fraud in the vote-counting sufficient to overturn his defeat, Trump demanded publicly and privately that Pence stop certification of the Electoral College vote count favoring Biden.



But Pence refused to do so on the advice of lawyers who told him the Constitution did not give him that authority.

Investigators are looking into the role Trump played in carrying out a plan promoted by some of his advisers to name unauthorized slates of electors in states where he lost who would seek to replace the official electors pledged to Biden.

In the United States, presidents are effectively chosen in separate elections in each of the 50 states, not through the national popular vote. Each state's number of electoral votes is dependent on its population, with the biggest states holding the most sway. The rioters who stormed the Capitol tried to keep lawmakers from certifying Biden's eventual 306-232 victory in the Electoral College.



In a third investigation, a prosecutor in the southern state of Georgia is investigating Trump for possible solicitation of election fraud.

In a taped January 2, 2021, telephone call, Trump asked Georgia's top election official to "find" him 11,780 votes  one more than Biden defeated him by  out of 5 million ballots that were cast in the state.



During the call, Trump said, "I only need 11,000 votes. Fellas, I need 11,000 votes. Give me a break."
Former U.S. President Donald Trump said FBI agents have raided his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida.

"My beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents," Trump said in lengthy statement Monday evening. "After working and cooperating with the relevant government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate."

The circumstances of the search were not immediately clear, according to media reports. The Justice Department, however, has been actively investigating the discovery of classified information in boxes of records that were taken to Trump's Florida residence after he left the White House in January 2021.

Trump, who was in New York City on Monday, did not say why the search took place. The FBI and Justice Department did not immediately comment on Trump's statement.

Justice Department spokesperson Dena Iverson declined to comment on the search to The Associated Press. Iverson also declined to comment about whether Attorney General Merrick Garland had personally authorized the search, according to media reports.

A person familiar with the matter, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation, told the AP the search happened earlier Monday.

Earlier this year, the National Archives and Records Administration said it had found classified material in 15 boxes at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence. It then referred the case to the Justice Department.

The Presidential Records Act of 1978 established that all presidential records are owned by the public and automatically transfer into the custody of the National Archives as soon as a commander-in-chief leaves office. All presidential libraries and museums are part of the National Archives.

"Presidential records are the property of the United States government and are administered by the National Archives," Meghan Ryan Guthorn, acting deputy chief operating officer of the agency, told VOA earlier this year. "So, all presidential papers, materials and records in the custody of the National Archives, whether donated, seized or governed by the Presidential Records Act, are owned by the federal government."

The former president accused the government of "prosecutorial misconduct," saying the search amounts to the "weaponization of the Justice System."

"Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before," he said.

Trump said FBI agents even broke into the safe in his home.

Evan Corcoran, a lawyer representing Trump, did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Washington Post.

The developments come as Trump has been preparing for a potential presidential run in 2024, possibly setting himself up for a rematch against President Joe Biden. He accused Democrats of "desperately" not wanting him to run again.

Top Biden White House officials said they were not given advance notice of the search, according to media reports.

Trump has previously said he agreed to return certain records to the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration, calling it "an ordinary and routine process."

The Justice Department also has been investigating efforts by allies of Trump to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election and the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol.

The department has not announced whether it will seek criminal charges against Trump in that investigation.

Dora Mekouar contributed to this report. Some information in this report comes from The Associated Press and Reuters.
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Former President Donald Trump remains at the center of conservative politics in the United States. He was the overwhelming favorite in an unofficial poll for Republican presidential candidate at the Conservative Political Action Conference, which met in Dallas August 4-7. VOA's Mike OSullivan reports.
Campaigns usually don't release internal polling unless there is great news to share.

In the case of U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney, a recent survey conducted on behalf of her campaign found she has a large lead over her Republican primary opponents, Mario Fratto and George Phillips, in the 24th Congressional District.

The poll

Robert Blizzard, a pollster for Public Opinion Strategies, composed a memo detailing the poll's findings. The survey of 300 Republican primary voters was conducted from July 24-26 using cellphones and landlines. The margin of error is plus or minus 5.66%.

The key findings, according to Blizzard, is that Tenney has a 46-point lead, 52% to 6%, over Fratto, a Geneva attorney and businessman, and George Phillips, a former Broome County legislator. More than one-third of voters (36%) are undecided. However, even with a good number of voters undecided, it's not enough for either Fratto or Phillips to overcome Tenney's massive advantage.

Favorability

Tenney has a solid favorable rating (48%) among GOP voters. That's noteworthy since she has not represented much of the area within the newly drawn district. Only 8% of Republicans said they have an unfavorable view of the congresswoman.

While her overall favorability is just shy of the 50% mark, she gets positive reviews from very conservative primary voters (52% favorable rating) and abortion opponents (53%). Additionally, 46% of gun owners said they have a favorable view of Tenney.

Fratto and Phillips, the poll showed, can't compete with that level of name recognition. Fratto, who has largely self-funded his campaign, has a 9% favorable rating. Most GOP voters don't know him. Phillips is in a similar position  he has a 4% favorable rating, but there are no signs he is campaigning for the nomination. He initially planned to challenge Tenney in a different district that was largely in the Southern Tier.

Blizzard wrote that Fratto and Phillips do not "have enough time left to build the necessary positive name ID to be competitive with the popular Tenney."

Trump factor

Despite Fratto's best efforts to win over former President Donald Trump's supporters, it is Tenney who has the advantage with the "America First" crowd.

The poll found GOP voters who view Trump favorably go for Tenney by 58 percentage points, 62-4-4%, over Fratto and Phillips.

Tenney and Trump have been allies since the latter first ran for president in 2016. Tenney endorsed Trump in 2016 and he headlined a fundraiser for her when she ran for reelection in 2018.

Trump endorsed Tenney again earlier this year.

Other key findings

Tenney has large leads among certain groups within the Republican electorate.

With very conservative voters, she has a 52-point lead, 60-8%, over Fratto. She holds a 49-point advantage, 55-6%, among pro-life GOP voters. Gun owners prefer Tenney by a 47-point margin, 52-5%.

Tenney has also locked up support from senior citizens (58% to Phillips' 5% and Fratto's 4%).

Analysis

Tenney is poised to win the Republican primary in the 24th Congressional District, which stretches from western New York to the North Country. (All of Cayuga County is in the new 24th.)

All of the numbers are on her side. Her incumbency advantage helps. She also has more than $1 million in the bank.

The primary election will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 23. Early voting begins Saturday, Aug. 13, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 21.
The U.S. embassy in South Sudan on Tuesday called on authorities in the central African country to free a journalist from prison.



Diing Magot, a freelance journalist who contributes to Voice of America's South Sudan in Focus program, was arrested in the capital, Juba, on Sunday while covering protests over economic hardships.



At the time of her arrest, Magot did not have her ID or press card with her.



Police arrested the journalist along with several protesters and took her to the Malakia police station.



The South Sudan Media Authority  a government regulatory body  asked VOA to provide a letter confirming that Magot was on assignment for the international broadcaster.



"We have provided the letter to the media authority, and we had expected word of her immediate release," VOA Public Relations Officer Anna Morris said in a statement Tuesday.



Instead, Morris said, Magot was moved with five protesters to Juba Central Prison where she is awaiting a court date.



"We are extremely distressed by the arrest of Diing Magot," Morris said. "We are asking South Sudan authorities for the immediate release of our journalist."



The Union of Journalists of South Sudan said that lawyers representing the journalist were denied access to her.



In a letter demanding her release  shared on social media  the union said it believes that Magot's rights under the constitution are being contravened. South Sudan's constitution states that a person must be released on bond or brought to a court within 24 hours of their arrest, the union said.



The South Sudan embassy in Washington did not respond to VOA's email requesting comment.



The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists cited a police spokesperson as saying that Magot remains under investigation and that the attorney general has given authorities permission to hold her for an additional three days.



The U.S. embassy in Juba called on authorities to "immediately release" Magot. Noting that she was arrested while covering a peaceful protest, the embassy added, "We affirm the right of journalists to do their jobs without interference or harm."

The media rights group the Committee to Protect Journalists said that South Sudan's journalists should be able to work without the threat of arrest.



"Journalists in South Sudan should not need to worry that they may be detained for simply doing their work to inform the public about what is happening in their country," said Muthoki Mumo, CPJ's sub-Saharan Africa representative, in Nairobi.



Authorities should "immediately release" Magot, she added.



Other media watchdogs have previously described conditions for South Sudan's media as "extremely precarious."



Earlier this year, at least eight journalists, including a VOA contributor, were detained briefly on the grounds of parliament, where they had planned to cover a press conference, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists.
The United States says it will provide $89 million to help clear land mines, improvised explosive devices and unexploded ordinance planted by Russian forces as part of the Kremlins five-and-a-half-month-long invasion of Ukraine.

The aid package, announced Tuesday by the State Department, will help fund, train, and equip approximately 100 de-mining teams over the next year as they take on what officials described as a massive problem plaguing at least 160,000 square kilometers of Ukrainian territory, including 10% of Ukraines farmland.

"This is a challenge that Ukraine will face for decades," an official told reporters Tuesday, speaking on the condition of anonymity under ground rules set by the State Department.

The official further compared Russias use of mines and explosives to the scorched earth playbook used by terrorist groups, like the Islamic State, also known as ISIS.

This horrific use of improvised explosive devices by Russia's forces is reminiscent of ISIS tactics in Iraq and Syria, where ISIS terrorists sought to inflict as many civilian casualties as possible & make people afraid to return home," the official said.

As Russia's forces retreated from northern Ukraine, they had booby traps and improvised explosive devices in food facilities, car trunks, washing machines, doorways, hospital beds and even the bodies of those killed by the invasion," the official said. Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that Russia's forces deliberately hid explosives in toys and shiny objects that attract children's attention.

The $89 million will be taken from both the State Department Fiscal Year 2022 budget, as well as from a series of supplemental funding bills passed by Congress earlier this year.

The money will not go directly to the government of Ukraine but will be paid out over time to non-governmental organizations, contractors and other de-mining specialists, who will then work alongside Ukraines existing de-mining teams.

While we're announcing our intent to provide this assistance as quickly as possible, it is going to take a little bit of time because that training process is iterative, the State Department official said.

Details on the training, including the precise location, are still being worked out, and U.S. officials are also in contact with allies about providing additional assistance.

A report by Human Rights Watch this past June, cited by the State Department, accused Russia of using seven types of anti-personnel landmines in Ukraine.

Anti-personnel mines, triggered by the proximity to or contact from a person, are banned under the 1997 Ottawa Convention.

Neither the U.S. nor Russia are signatories to the treaty. But U.S. President Joe Biden announced last month the U.S. would restrict its use of land mines, using them only to aid in the defense of South Korea from North Korea.

As part of previous security assistance packages to Ukraine, the U.S. has provided Claymore anti-personnel munitions. U.S. officials have said, however, that the Claymores in question have been configured to be consistent with the regulations set out by the Ottawa Convention.

For now, U.S. officials are expressing hope that the new assistance can amplify Ukraines existing de-mining efforts.

The State Department said Ukrainian teams already have cleared about 160,000 unexploded mines, ordinances and other devices.

And as new teams are trained, equipped, and sent in, the hope is that Ukraine and the U.S. can also get a better understanding of Russias strategy.

We don't have a lot of holistic data on what the patterns look like, specifically how those mines may have been laid, the State Department official said in response to a question from VOA.

It's difficult to say at this point in time, really, what the logic was behind doing what they've done and continue to do, the official added. From what we are seeing, they [mines] have been used extensively in civilian areas.  The assumption is it would impede Russia from coming back potentially just as much as it would impede civilians from going home.
The circumstances surrounding Mondays FBI search of former U.S. President Donald Trump Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida were not immediately clear, according to media reports. However, the Justice Department has actively investigated the discovery of boxes containing classified information that were taken to Trump's Florida residence after he left the White House in January 2021.

Why are the call logs, drafts, speeches, handwritten notes and other documents from Trumps term in office in the possession of the National Archives?

Presidential records are the property of the United States government and are administered by the National Archives, said Meghan Ryan Guthorn, acting deputy chief operating officer of the agency. So, all presidential papers, materials and records in the custody of the National Archives, whether donated, seized or governed by the Presidential Records Act, are owned by the federal government.

The Presidential Records Act of 1978 established that all presidential records are owned by the public and automatically transfer into the custody of the National Archives as soon as a commander-in-chief leaves office. All presidential libraries and museums are part of the National Archives. Former President Barack Obamas presidential library will be the first to be fully digital.

The National Archives and Records Administration is the official record keeper for the United States government, Ryan Guthorn said. Only about one to 3% of the records are considered permanent records, and those are the documents that are essential to understanding the rights and entitlements of U.S. citizens, that hold our elected officials accountable for their actions, [and] document our history as a nation.

Presidential records werent always owned by the public.

From George Washington through Jimmy Carter, the papers of a presidential administration were considered the private property of a president to do with as they saw fit, Ryan Guthorn said.

Most commanders-in-chief have donated their presidential papers, a precedent started by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940. That continued until the 1970s when President Richard Nixon fought to destroy his records, including secret tape recordings, during the Watergate scandal that eventually led to his resignation from office.

Congress suspected the tapes contained evidence that could incriminate the president. Lawmakers passed the Presidential Recordings and Materials Preservation Act of 1974, which applied only to Nixons presidential materials and instructed that materials related to Watergate be retained by NARA.

During his lifetime, Nixon fought to keep his presidential records private. NARA received most of the recordings related to Watergate, but not all. After Nixons death, his family donated his presidential papers and other materials.

Julie Nixon Eisenhower calls me, said she wanted to meet with me, said the family wanted to settle, says John Carlin, who served as archivist of the United States from 1995 until 2005.

Nixons daughter reached out to Carlin during his first week on the job in June of 1995, more than 20 years after Watergate.

You have to remember that in those days, the president's records were personal, Carlin said. Nixon was going to keep them, and he had the law on his side.  And so, when she called that day and said, We're ready to settle, that was good news.  When he [Nixon] was alive, he fought it. I mean, tooth and toenail. There wasn't going to be any settlement.

Among those who access White House records are presidential scholars like Shannon Bow OBrien who are interested in documenting history.

The public can start making requests through the Freedom of Information Act five years after an administration ends, but also the president can invoke certain restrictions for public access for up to 12 years, said OBrien, a professor in the government department at The University of Texas at Austin College of Liberal Arts.

If we don't have access to this material, we don't have access to the truth. We only have access to curated truths, in many ways, which is what people want to tell us, or what people want us to see, and that's not always the most accurate.
The World Meteorological Organization or WMO reports the month of July was one of the three warmest on record globally. This, despite a weak La Nina event, which is supposed to have a cooling influence.



Meteorologists warn the heatwave that swept through large parts of Europe last month is set to continue in August. They note July was drier than average in much of Europe, badly affecting local economies and agriculture, as well as increasing the risk of wildfires.



WMO Spokeswoman Clare Nullis says Britains Met Office has issued another advisory warning of a heat buildup throughout this week. However, she says temperatures are not expected to reach the extreme, record-setting temperatures of more than 40 degrees Celsius seen in July.



But it is well above average. Temperatures in France this week, well above average. In Switzerland, many parts of Switzerland well above average. And as I said, continuing the trend that we saw in July, Spain saw its hottest ever month in July. So, not just the hottest July but the hottest ever month on record.



Nullis says Europe and other parts of the world will have to get used to and adapt to the kind of heatwaves WMOs Secretary-General Petteri Taalas calls the new normal.



While Europe was sweltering under extreme heat in July, WMO reports Antarctic Sea ice reached its lowest July level on record. This follows a record low Sea ice level in June. While Europe saw a lot of heat in July, Nullis notes big chunks of the Antarctic did as well.



It is important to bear in mind there is quite a big sort of monthly and year-to-year variability in Antarctica. So, the fact that it was the lowest on record in June and in July does not mean necessarily that this is a long-term irreversible trend.



WMO reports the long-lasting drought in parts of Europe also is set to continue. It warns below-normal precipitation in many parts of Europe will cause or worsen drought conditions and likely trigger more forest fires.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is calling for international inspectors to be given access to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant after Ukraine and Russia traded accusations over the shelling of the facility in recent days.

Any attack on a nuclear plant "is a suicidal thing," Guterres told a news conference in Japan.

More broadly, Guterres said he is very worried that we might have a prolonged war in Ukraine that could have a very negative impact in the global economy and in the living conditions especially of the most vulnerable people.

Guterres said the United Nations has been working with Turkey on the possible start of peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine but that the effort is stymied by the complexity of the conflict.

The difficult thing in relation to a cease-fire comes from a simple fact: Ukraine cannot accept a situation in which its territory is taken by another country, Guterres said, and the Russian Federation does not seem ready to accept that the areas that Russian forces have taken will not be annexed by the Russian Federation or give way to new independent states.

Ukraines ambassador to the United Nations, Yevhenii Tsymbaliuk, said employees at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear complex are "working under the barrels of Russian guns."

Speaking in Vienna, Tsymbaliuk appealed for the nuclear facility to be declared a demilitarized zone to prevent a Chernobyl-style catastrophe. He contended that Russian forces, with the shelling of the nuclear facility, are trying to cause blackouts in southern Ukraine, where intense fighting is ongoing. He said any damage to the complex means that radiation could not be detected.

Meanwhile, Russia claimed that Ukrainian forces hit the site with a multiple rocket launcher, damaging administrative buildings and a storage area. The Russian Foreign Ministry accused Kyiv of attempting to "take Europe hostage" by shelling the plant.

Tsymbaliuk said, "If something happens, so there will be huge consequences not only for Ukraine, probably all Ukraine will be contaminated, but for Europe as well."

Tsymbaliuk said Kyiv would use all the diplomatic channels it can to allow an international mission to the plant.

"We really need it urgently, as soon as possible, I would say not later than the end of this month," he added.

Russias RIA Novosti news agency said Moscow is ready to facilitate a visit of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to the Zaporizhzhia plant.

In the most recent attack on the nuclear facility Saturday night, Ukraine's state nuclear power firm said Russian forces damaged three radiation sensors and wounded a worker with shrapnel.

"Russian nuclear terror requires a stronger response from the international community  sanctions on the Russian nuclear industry and nuclear fuel," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on Twitter.

The plant, in Russian-controlled territory, was also attacked Friday. Moscow has blamed Ukrainian forces for the strikes.

Russia captured the Zaporizhzhia plant in early March in the opening stages of its invasion of Ukraine, but the facility is still run by Ukrainian technicians.

The Ukrainian nuclear company Energoatom said Russian rocket attacks Saturday hit a storage facility, where 174 containers with spent nuclear fuel were kept in the open.

"Consequently, timely detection and response in the event of a deterioration in the radiation situation or leakage of radiation from containers of spent nuclear fuel are not yet possible," it said.

The Russian-installed administration of occupied Enerhodar, where the plant's employees live, said Ukraine had struck using a 220-mm Uragan multiple rocket launcher system.

"The administrative buildings and the adjacent territory of the storage facility were damaged," it said.

After the first attack Friday, the head of the IAEA said the shelling showed the risk of a nuclear disaster. Those shells hit a high-voltage power line, prompting the plant's operators to disconnect a reactor  despite no radioactive leak being detected.

Some material in this report came from Reuters.
PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA  South African Minister of International Relations Naledi Pandor accused the West of sometimes taking a patronizing and bullying attitude toward Africa, as she hosted U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the first leg of his Africa visit. Pandor made it clear that South Africa has different views from the U.S. on Ukraine, China, and Israel and the Palestinians.

At a joint press conference in the South African capital, Blinken stressed he was not on his three-country tour of the continent in order to counter Moscow and Beijings growing influence in the region, as has been widely speculated, after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited last month.

Our commitment to a stronger partnership with Africa is not about trying to outdo anyone else, Blinken said.

Blinken spoke, too, about U.S. support of Ukraine, saying Russias invasion was an aggression against the entire international order.

South Africa has remained neutral on the conflict with Russia, its partner in the BRICS group of countries, and abstained from any U.N. votes on the matter, though Pandor said the country abhorred war and would like to see an end to the conflict.



However, she said the different approaches by the international community to different conflicts sometimes leads to cynicism about international bodies. She referenced the plight of the Palestinians.

Just as much as the people of Ukraine deserve their territory and freedom, the people of Palestine deserve their territory and freedom, she said, and we should be equally concerned at what is happening to the people of Palestine as we are with what is happening to the people of Ukraine. Weve not seen an even-handed approach.

Pandor added that while it didnt come from Blinken, South Africa had experienced pressure from some in the West to align with its policy on Ukraine. She also appeared to criticize the U.S. bill passed in April, Countering Malign Russian Activities in Africa Act, which has been seen by some on the continent as a vehicle to punish African countries that have not toed the line on Ukraine.

From some of our partners in Europe and elsewhere, there has been a sense of patronizing bullying  You choose this or else. And the recent legislation passed in the United States of America by the House of Representatives, we found a most unfortunate bill.

Bob Wekesa, director of the African Center for the Study of the United States, said Pandors candid remarks at the press conference showed the closed-door meeting between the U.S. and South African sides must have been a very difficult one.

I think the U.S. is attempting to figure out how to get South Africa on to its side, but South Africa is not coming to the party, Wekesa said.

Blinken was in Pretoria to launch the new U.S. Strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa, which focuses on areas such as climate change, trade, health and food insecurity.

During his remarks Monday, he also criticized Beijing for its strong reaction to House speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan.

Pandor would not comment specifically on Taiwan but did say South Africa did not want to be made party to a conflict between China and the U.S.
* Rooftop solar water heaters now required on new homes

* Electricity blackouts driving search for energy savings

* Upfront costs a barrier but heaters are cheaper long-term

By Lungelo Ndhlovu

BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe, (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - People in Zimbabwe are used to taking cold baths during lengthy power cuts, but Cosmas Ndlovu's new home means his family are among the fortunate few who can enjoy hot water at all hours.

When the 48-year-old built his house in the southern African nation three years ago, he had to include a rooftop solar water heater to comply with a 2019 law that banned the installation of electric heaters in buildings.

While the father-of-five said the 150-litre-capacity heater - which directly absorbs the sun's warmth to heat water - was expensive, at the equivalent of about U.S. $410, he believed that it had proved a worthwhile investment.

"Once the water is heated in the solar geyser, it takes two days before it cools down," Ndlovu told the Thomson Reuters Foundation at his home in the Pelandaba West district, a newly established suburb not yet been connected to the grid.

"Warm water never runs out. I can have a hot bath even in the middle of the night," added Ndlovu, who has installed three solar panels as well to power his lights, television, stove and refrigerator.

As Zimbabwe's grid struggles with increased electricity demand, including as new housing projects are added, the government is emphasising the need for renewable energy and for thermal solar water heaters in homes and buildings.

Zimbabwe has in the past endured severe electricity blackouts - known locally as load shedding - that last up to 18 hours as a result of drought reducing dam levels at its main hydropower plant and breakdowns of coal-fired generators.

While Zimbabwe is on a drive to boost solar power - to cut electricity import costs and combat climate change - renewable suppliers, energy experts and builders warn that the expense of putting such systems into place is a barrier to their use.

Lawrence Mashungu, a climate change expert at the ministry of environment, water and climate, said the government was not offering funds for people to install solar heaters but "was providing advice" about their cost-saving merits.

Zimbabwe's Secretary for Energy Gloria Magombo, however, said the government was considering subsidies for new housing developments that adopt solar water heaters as well as a program that would see banks provide loans to install them.

"Already, most new housing developments have adopted solar water heaters, which is very positive," she said in an interview.

The nation has a target of installing at least 250,000 solar water heaters in old and new buildings by 2030. The government said it had no data on how many were in place currently.

Under the 2019 law, new buildings that do not have solar water heaters cannot be connected to the grid, and offenders can face a fine and up to a year in prison.

CUTTING COSTS

Zimbabwe has an installed electric capacity of about 2,000 megawatts (MW), with Kariba hydropower dam producing over half of that energy, according to its president.

Coal plants and imported power from Mozambique and South Africa provide much of the rest of the country's electricity, with coal capacity growing.

But renewable power also has a role to play, with the government having vowed to cut its energy-related emissions by about a third by 2030, mainly by boosting investment in hydropower and solar power.

It has set a target to generate at least 2,100 MW of clean energy by the end of the decade, of which 75% would come from solar, according to the country's 2019 renewable energy policy.

Import duties have been removed from solar-energy-related projects, while Magombo said the government was supporting local manufacturing of heat-absorbing rooftop water heaters and promoting their benefits.

Ultimately, the use of the technology should reduce household energy consumption by 20-40%, the official added.

The government also said last month it is implementing a net metering system, whereby people whose homes have rooftop solar panels can sell their excess energy to the national grid.

Abe Cambridge, chief executive of Sun Exchange, a South African renewable energy start-up that works in the region, said solar water heaters, like rooftop panel systems, can significantly reduce electricity costs and transform lives.

"For under-served communities with no previous access to warm water except by heating water in pots, this technology is life-changing," he said.

Hawkflight Construction, a company based in Bulawayo, said the solar water heaters were an extra expense for buyers at a time when the cost of building houses was already rising - but he emphasised the longer-term benefits of the technology.

"(There is) only a cost at the implementation stage, but thereafter it is a lifetime benefit," said Martin Moyo, the land developing and building firm's operations manager.

Pelandaba West resident and civil servant Nhlalwenhle Mqhawana said she had not been able to afford her $400 heater outright and was instead paying for it in monthly installments.

But the 39-year-old said her family had since saved about $20 a month as they no longer had to pay for gas cylinders to heat water.

In mid-July, Zimbabwe's state-owned power utility warned there would be an increase in blackouts due to high demand for electricity and import constraints.

But the power cuts are of no concern to Ndlovu's family.

"My household doesn't know what load shedding is because my entire home is connected to a powerful solar system which is running the refrigerator, television and the stove," he said.

Originally published on: ttps://news.trust.org/item/20220802110337-y4ps6

(Reporting by Lungelo Ndhlovu, Editing by Kieran Guilbert and Laurie Goering: (Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson
Shepherd Chowe pushes a cart filled with tins, iron rods and other metallic objects down a dusty pathway in Hopley, a poor settlement about 15 km west of Zimbabwe's capital, Harare. He is among desperate Zimbabweans selling scrap metal for survival as the cost of living soars, piling pressure on a population already facing food shortages and high unemployment, and stirring memories of economic chaos years ago under the late leader Robert Mugabe's near four-decade rule.
A long-debated question about the main facility for Cayuga County government  whether to renovate the aging Cayuga County Office Building or build a brand new facility  now has a professional engineering firm's assessment.

And that firm's answer is to keep most county operations at the 160 Genesee St. building, but it make it bigger.

Syracuse-based engineering firm of Barton & Loguidice, hired for $40,000 to do a comprehensive building feasibility over the past half year, presented its findings to the county Legislature last month.

The firm conducted detailed analysis of the six-story office building in downtown Auburn and also met with county department heads about their space needs. The result was a recommended plan to do a thorough renovation of the office building, but start that work after constructing a three-story L-shaped addition onto the building's southwestern corner.

This plan achieves a major county goal of bringing more county departments under one roof, but in a manner that would be much less costly than building a new facility. Barton & Loguidice estimated the total project would cost $35 million, compared with $70 million for a brand new facility.

"The bones of this building are very good," Zachary D. Comstock, a Barton & Loguidice project engineer, told lawmakers. "If you tried to build this building anywhere else, the cost would be astronomical."

By building an addition, Comstock said, the county would have ready space to move existing departments into while floor-by-floor renovations on the office building took place. And once the full renovation is done, the added space would allow more departments into the larger building, which currently has 83,000-square-feet of usable space. The addition of elevators and stair towers with the new construction would also lead to improved interior circulation of staff and visitors, and better security.

The engineering firm did explore sites and existing buildings for a brand new office building, but viable options were minimal, and the cost potential was high. That included an analysis of the Fingerlakes Mall, which has been floated in the past as a possible county government campus site.

"We like this scenario because you own the property," Comstock said of the expansion and renovation proposal. "Once you start getting into other properties and buying space or leasing space, you start to get into unknowns."

'We've got to get it right': Cayuga County Office Building's fate could be decided soon The future of the downtown Cayuga County Office Building  a discussion topic in the county Legislature for more than a decade  soon could be

Built in the 1960s, the deficiencies of the downtown office building have been on the Legislature's radar going back more than 15 years. Other options studied in the past, but never acted upon, included an office campus on County House Road in Sennett where public safety operations are housed, and also erecting a new building in the parking lot of the existing one.

Legislators did not make any decisions at last month's meeting, but Chairman David Gould told them he would like to move forward soon.

"That's just the beginning," he said of the feasibility study. "I really would like to get that going by next year, at least have something committed by next year. It's been  and I've said it a million times  since 2004 people have been talking about that. Finally, this Legislature has a chance to do something about it."
As President Joe Biden signed a bill that will invest billions into semiconductor manufacturing, he was joined on stage by a select group of Congress members, including U.S. Rep. John Katko.

Biden on Tuesday signed the CHIPS and Science Act, a measure that will provide $54.2 billion to support semiconductor manufacturing in the United States. The legislation, which pledges a total of $280 billion to boost chip production, also includes a 25% tax credit for investments in semiconductor manufacturing.

Semiconductor chips are used in many different products, from cars to computers. According to the Semiconductor Industry Association, the United States produces 10% of the world's semiconductors. China accounts for nearly one-quarter of chip manufacturing. Taiwan (21%) and South Korea (19%) are also major producers.

Katko, R-Camillus, played a role in reaching an agreement on the chips legislation, which received bipartisan support in Congress.

"Seeing the bill signed into law is the culmination of an awful lot of work by an awful lot of people, including myself," he told The Citizen after the signing ceremony at the White House. "You spend a lot of political capital to get this done and it was well worth every bit of it just given the potential positives for central New York."

One reason Katko is excited about the new law is the possibility of the Syracuse area landing a major chip manufacturer. He thinks the region is "right at the edge" of hosting a manufacturer, but the company  its name wasn't disclosed  has yet to make an announcement.

"We're hoping and praying it comes through," he said. "We should know soon."

The potential economic benefits could be massive. Chip manufacturers are investing billions to build new plants in the United States, largely due to the chips legislation. The factories would require thousands of employees, who would be paid six-figure salaries.

For central New York, it would be a game-changer. Katko previously said that there would be additional benefits, from other investments in the region to spin-off businesses.

The efforts to incentivize chip manufacturers to set up shop in the United States are also viewed as important for national security. Some chips are used in certain types of military equipment.

Katko broke with Republican Party leaders to support the legislation. While there was some support among GOP members, most in the House voted against the chips bill.

But Katko could not pass up an opportunity to support a bill, especially one that involved input from both parties, that will benefit his district.

"If we pull it off, it'll be one of the greatest things to happen to central New York in generations," he said. "I'm very proud to have done my part to at least position us to do that."
When President Joe Biden signs a bill that seeks to boost semiconductor chip manufacturing in the United States, there will be at least one Republican in attendance.

U.S. Rep. John Katko will head to the White House for the signing ceremony on Tuesday, his office said. Biden will sign the CHIPS and Science Act, which Congress approved in July.

Most Republicans opposed the $280 billion bill that includes incentives for semiconductor manufacturers to open plants in the U.S. But Katko, R-Camillus, broke with his party to support the legislation.

Katko told The Citizen that he voted for the bill because semiconductor manufacturing could come to central New York. There is a strong possibility that Onondaga County could be the site of a chip manufacturing facility. If that happens, he said it will cost billions of dollars to build the plants. Once constructed, the facilities would have more than 10,000 employees earning six-figure salaries.

There are also national security considerations. Katko, who is the ranking Republican member of the House Homeland Security Committee, noted that most of the semiconductor chip manufacturing is in Taiwan. One concern is that if China decides to invade Taiwan, they would seize control of the market.

"We can't have that," he said. "That's a national security issue. That's why it's so important to bring this industry back home."

Katko, who has emphasized the need for bipartisanship throughout his congressional career, hasn't shied away from working with Biden, a Democrat, on issues of shared interest.

In March 2021, Katko and other members of Congress met with Biden to discuss the need for major infrastructure legislation. Those talks led to an infrastructure package that was approved later in the year. Katko supported its passage.
Four Italian regions to offer vaccinations against monkeypox.

Italy's vaccination campaign against monkeypox got underway on Monday with the first vaccines administered at Rome's Spallanzani hospital for infectious diseases.

The vaccination drive in Rome will see the Italian health ministry make 1,200 vaccine doses available in the Lazio region, out of a nationwide total of 4,200 jabs, reports state broadcaster Rai News.

The vaccination campaign will subsequently be extended to the three other Italian regions with the highest number of monkeypox cases: Emilia Romagna (Bologna), Lombardia (Milan) and Veneto (Venice), all in northern Italy.

The "high risk" categories of people who will initially be offered the vaccine, according to Italy's health ministry, include gay, bisexual men and transgender people who have sex with men, have recently had sex with multiple partners, recently had a sexually transmitted infection or use chemical drugs when having sex.

"It is true that there have been just over 500 cases in Italy and therefore it is a modest epidemic" - Massimo Andreoni, professor of Infectious diseases at Rome's Tor Vergata University, told Italian news agency ANSA - "however it is also true that by now this disease has been spreading for several weeks and does not seem to slow down; therefore a intervention is appropriate to prevent it from spreading further."

Monkeypox is a rare viral infection similar to smallpox, with similar but milder symptoms, and it is rarely fatal. Last month the World Health Organization declared monkeypox a "public health emergency of international concern".

For information about the vaccination drive see Italy's health ministry website. To book a vaccination against monkeypox at the Spallanzani hospital in Rome send an email to vaccinomonkeypox@inmi.it.

Photo Adnkronos
In July, the three major Japanese automakers, namely Toyota Motor, Honda Motor, and Nissan Motor all celebrated a hard-won year-on-year growth in their monthly China sales.

In the first seven months of the year, the cumulative China sales volume of Toyota, Honda, and Nissan all encountered a year-on-year downward slope, with Toyota still facing the least impact versus Nissan the most. With 1,084,700 vehicles sold, Toyota saw its year-to-date sales volume almost catch up with its results from a year ago.

The rise in overall sales was partly contributed by a slew of governmental stimulus, policies, subsidies, and campaigns issued to boost auto purchase desire and rejuvenate the otherwise bleak market.

In July, Toyota sold 180,400 vehicles in China, down 9.8% from June, but still higher than the first five months of the year and 6% higher from the year-ago period.

The companys sales were mainly driven by the hot demand of its SUV lineup, such as the HARRIER. However, with the universal chip supply crunch continuing to challenge the industry, the automakers premium imported brand, Lexus, witnessed a 13.9% decline in July China sales compared to a year ago.

As to Honda, the company sold 133,556 vehicles in China in the past month, jumping 23.5% compared to the same month last year, which was also 4.1 percentage points higher than the year-on-year growth it achieved in June.

Among Hondas rich product mix, the Accord sedan and the CR-V SUV models maintained their blooming momentum in July sales. In the Jan.-Jul. period, Honda sold 812,784 vehicles in China, slipping down 9.2% over the previous year.

Nonetheless, the conditioned purchase tax cut policy from the Chinese government has indeed incentivized the demand for the companys hybrid vehicle models, which were applicable for the subsidies.

By the end of July, Honda sold 120,961 units of vehicles mounted with its SPORT HYBRID high-performance dual-electric-motor power system.

Photo credit: Honda

In July, Nissan Motor sold 100,203 vehicles in China, edging up 4.6% year on year. The automaker celebrated its monthly China sales volume surpass that of the year-ago period for the first time in the past five months.

By the end of July, Nissan Motors cumulative sales volume amounted to 646,223 vehicles in the country, indicating a 19.4% decrease from a year ago. Its passenger vehicle joint venture, Dongfeng Motor Co. & Ltd. (DFL), sold 535,280 vehicles (including Nissan, Venucia, and Infiniti brands) year to date, representing an 18.4% decrease compared to the same period in 2021.

In an effort to promote auto sales in China and ride the new energy vehicle tide, the Venucia brand plans to officially announce its new energy vehicle transformation with a new energy concept vehicle coming in the second half of 2022.

Lastly, according to data provided by Kyodo, Mazda Motor saw its July sales slash down 33% from the previous year to 9,044 units in China.
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Its open season on UK financial regulation. The latest target is a real sacred cow  the 30-year-old UK Corporate Governance Code that dictates boardroom best practice. The tome is subject to yet another review, prompting a pair of law professors to suggest abolishing it completely. This is a highly provocative call. But it might not be radical enough.

The first version of the code landed in 1992 after Adrian Cadbury, of the Cadbury business family, was commissioned to draw lessons from a raft of British business blow-ups. He focused on strengthening oversight of company audits and boosting the role of outside directors. The original guidelines have since mushroomed in response to subsequent government reviews, adding directives on pay and the broader role of non-executives.

This mission creep shouldnt be a problem. The code isnt law and is meant to operate on a comply or explain basis. It comprises provisions rather than rules. If companies cant comply with the precepts, they can just say why. However, those with a so-called premium listing, a requirement for inclusion in the FTSE UK indexes, must describe how they have applied the code in their annual reports.

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Although there are no specific sanctions for offenders, shareholders can punish boards by voting down company resolutions, notably on directors pay or re-election, at the annual meeting.

But a strange situation has arisen. Despite the codes optionality, there is strong market pressure to comply rather than explain. A 2019 study by auditor Grant Thornton UK LLP found that nearly three-quarters of FTSE 350 firms followed all of the directives.

In practice, then, the UK appears to have ended up with a one-size-fits-all governance regime that lacks the intended flexibility. The Financial Reporting Council that oversees the code has slimmed and simplified it in recent years. Yet there are still some 41 provisions.

The expectation that these boxes need ticking can be constraining for smaller, more entrepreneurial firms that may want to preserve unconventional leadership arrangements, in particular around founder influence. This could be one of several factors deterring firms from listing in London. Theres been a proliferation of mid-sized UK firms accepting bids from private equity in recent years.

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The UKs gold-plated governance hasnt led to better performance of listed companies, argue Brian Cheffins and Bobby Reddy of the University of Cambridge. As the FRC consults on adding guidance on ESG reporting, the academics propose scrapping the code outright. They suggest that firms could simply make disclosures about a handful of key aspects of their governance, such as directors possible conflicts of interest.

While the plan is in many ways appealing, the snag is that some companies ought to be subject to tough governance without qualification. Banks, insurers and businesses involved in public-service contracts come to mind, given their failure would have a broader impact.

The imposition of strictures on these businesses could, of course, come from another source  say, the Bank of England in the case of financial firms. But it needs to come from somewhere. A simplified code, with much more explicit wiggle-room for companies that pose less risk, would be an alternative remedy.

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Either way, the challenges here look like a symptom of a more fundamental issue  the legal ambiguity around what boards are responsible for, and who holds them accountable for what.

The 2006 Companies Act obliges directors to promote the success of the firm for the benefit of shareholders, while also paying attention to other stakeholders such as employees. Its hard to see, though, how the investors who hire and fire boards can always be trusted to use that power to protect stakeholders with potentially opposing interests to their own. UK corporate law is as worthy of review as the code.

Britain needs a governance regime thats tough where necessary without stigmatizing companies that have sound reasons for custom boardroom arrangements. It must also decide precisely how directors duties beyond serving shareholders are imposed and policed. Binning the current governance code wont, on its own, do the trick.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Chris Hughes is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering deals. Previously, he worked for Reuters Breakingviews, the Financial Times and the Independent newspaper.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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O, what portents are these? demands a deceptively observant character in Henry IV. Former President Donald Trump must be wondering much the same, after FBI agents searched his home at Mar-a-Lago on Monday. The rest of the country could use some answers too. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Trump himself first detailed the raid on social media. Nothing like this has ever happened to a president of the United States before, he said, accurately. After working and cooperating with the relevant government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate, he continued. Characteristically, he then seemed to reveal more than intended: They even broke into my safe!

The contents of that safe  and the boxes FBI agents were seen removing from the residence  may well prove explosive. Any such search wouldve required a federal agent to present an application to a judge under oath showing probable cause that there was evidence of a crime on the premises. The judge wouldve had to agree. FBI Director Christopher Wray, a Trump appointee, and the highest levels of the Justice Department, likely including Attorney General Merrick Garland, wouldve had to sign off. Everyone involved must have grasped the gravity of what was about to unfold.

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According to several news reports, the probe involves the former presidents mishandling of classified documents. For the sake of the country one hopes theres more to the story than that. Although Trump was notoriously careless with sensitive information, the Justice Department almost never prosecutes such crimes absent some complicating factor. To do so against a former president, without strong evidence of obstruction or other serious misconduct, would show atrocious judgment  especially since the commander-in-chief is (to simplify slightly) the ultimate determinant of a documents classification status.

It bears emphasizing that this is a fateful moment for American democracy. Whatever happens next, wherever this investigation leads, there can be no unringing the bell. An FBI raid of the former presidents house will have shattered norms, created unnerving precedents and upended politics in ways that are impossible to predict. Trumps supporters  including many in Congress  are already seething with rage and seized with conspiracies. A more combustible situation is hard to imagine.

A sober explanation for these actions is thus essential. So far, both the Justice Department and the FBI have declined to comment. A White House spokesman said President Joe Biden knew nothing of the search in advance. Even accepting that open investigations require some degree of secrecy, such silence cant last. The Justice Department must level with the public about the broad contours of this probe and divulge why such aggressive action was necessary.

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The sheer amount of unpunished wrongdoing that occurred under the Trump administration has many people cheering this extraordinary intervention. Its nothing to celebrate. Trump himself has tested the American system in ways unseen since the 19th century. Its critical that the pursuit of justice does not merely compound the damage.

The Editors are members of the Bloomberg Opinion editorial board.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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If Mondays FBI search at Donald Trumps Florida home leads to the prosecution of the former president, as supporters fear and detractors hope, then citizens of democracies everywhere might ask Americans, What kept you? Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight The US has been a laggard in an important measure of freedom: holding former leaders accountable to the law. From Brazil, France and South Africa to Israel, the Philippines and South Korea, many of the worlds major democracies have tried  and frequently, convicted  former presidents and prime ministers, mostly for crimes committed, covered up or both when they were in power.

The list of those brought to justice includes such prominent figures as Jacques Chirac and Nicolas Sarkozy of France, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Dilma Rousseff and Michel Temer of Brazil, South Africas Jacob Zuma, South Koreas Park Geun-Hye and Silvio Berlusconi of Italy.

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The closest a US president came to joining the list was over Watergate, but President Richard Nixon was pardoned by his successor, Gerald Ford, before he faced a day in court. Fords explanation, that Americans would needlessly be diverted from meeting [our] challenges if we as a people were to remain sharply divided over prosecuting Nixon, has been invoked by those seeking to draw a curtain of charity across misdeeds by subsequent occupants of the White House, notably Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and, of course, Trump.

And this isnt just a matter of partisan politics. Americans as a whole are leery of prosecuting former presidents. In a recent PBS NewsHour/NPR/Marist poll, barely half of all respondents said Trump should face criminal charges  and only 28% felt he would  for his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the US Capitol.

The arguments for treating leaders differently from ordinary citizens turn on questions of perception and propriety. The prosecution of a former president, especially if it takes place during the term of a successor from the other side of the aisle, is not only an unseemly prospect, it will inevitably be seen by the ex-leaders supporters as politically motivated. That is certainly the case with Trump: The narrative in MAGA-land is that President Joe Biden is persecuting their man to prevent him from running for president in 2024.

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Then theres the specter of retaliation: a cycle of tit-for-tat prosecutions with every change of guard in the White House. This would unquestionably bring down the tenor of national politics, damaging public trust in the highest office in the land  and by extension, in all offices. In other words, democracy itself would be diminished.

And finally, there is the alarmist argument, which is getting the full klaxon treatment from Trumps supporters: Pursuing a former president risks setting off a civil war. Right-wing social media accounts are already resonating with calls for a violent response to the FBI search.

Against all this is the case for prosecution: Putting a former president on the dock is a signal that nobody is above the nations laws. And rather than enfeebling democracy, the high-profile demonstration of accountability strengthens its sinews.

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The evidence from international experience is for the most part reassuring. We can argue whether the legal action against former leaders has had a cautionary effect on subsequent officeholders  three South Korean presidents have been convicted since that country achieved full democracy in 1987  but the dire scenarios painted in America havent come to pass in other countries.

In none of the democracies I mentioned has the political culture devolved into retaliatory prosecutions. The public perception of democratic institutions varies by country and circumstance, but it would be hard to draw a straight line from the conviction of former leaders to a general disenchantment with politics. After all, there is no dearth of disenchantment in countries where leaders havent been brought to court.

And certainly, none of the countries I cited has dissolved into a civil war.

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There is one important caveat to all this. In practically every case of a former leader of a democracy being brought to justice, the charges have centered on corruption  plain old graft, in most instances. They may have brought themselves and their offices into disrepute, but none of them has been accused of trying to bring down the democratic system by encouraging an insurrection.

But if such charges are brought against Trump, it would strengthen the argument for the US to follow the example of those other democracies.

This is one area where America should not be exceptional.

More From Bloomberg Opinion:



After Mar-a-Lago Search, the Public Deserves Some Answers: Editorial



Trump Search Should Just Be Garlands Opening Act: Timothy L. OBrien



Three Major Takeaways From the FBI Search on Trumps Home: Noah Feldman

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Bobby Ghosh is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering foreign affairs. Previously, he was editor in chief at Hindustan Times, managing editor at Quartz and international editor at Time.

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When the liquidity tide recedes, investors from sovereign wealth to billionaire family offices are getting even more impatient with hedge funds. They are discovering that a lot of these expensive money managers dont really hedge, and the pivot toward private equity was the right decision after all. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight Hedge funds are on track for the second-worst year of return on record, beaten only by the steep losses during the 2008 Global Financial Crisis. Star managers are nursing billion dollar losses. Tiger Global Managements main hedge fund, which started the year with $21 billion, lost about half of its value as of July. Melvin Capital Management, a once-high-flying manager that got an unusual bailout from Steve Cohens Point72 Asset Management, shut its door in May.

Much of this years pain was borne by the so-called long-short equity funds, by far the biggest and most popular sub-category with about $1.2 trillion assets under management. On average, they fell about 9.9% in the first seven months, data compiled by Bloomberg show.

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Its not supposed to be this way. This environment could have been good for managers who look at company fundamentals. According to Bernstein Research, over the last year, metrics that had stopped working for years, such as price-to-earnings or cash flow yield, became good predictors of stock performance again. Good stock pickers could have come off handsomely. So what happened?

More likely, there are just very few skilled managers out there. Many are merely leveraged long funds riding a decade-long tech wave and ultra-low rates. Having bearish positions is only to give them room for ultra-bullish bets. After all, hedge funds cant charge much for long-only positions; investors can buy Cathie Woods ARKK Innovation ETF instead.

As of June, the average long-short ratio of an equity fundamental fund was 1.8 times, data compiled by Goldman Sachs Group Incs prime services show. Hedge funds have already drastically pared back their bullish bets. A year ago, for every short positioning, there were more than twice as many long ones.

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Even the recent unwind was ill-timed. As the likes of Tiger Global, Coatue Management and D1 Capital Partners rushed to reduce their net equity exposure, they missed the July rally.

A glimpse of this industrys rise gives us some sense of how inexperienced managers can be. There have been about 14,000 hedge funds in existence, according to Bloomberg data. Most of them were launched only in the last two decades or so, when the macro conditions were fairly benign. At only 47, Tiger Globals Chase Coleman, for instance, is already an industry titan.

The worlds largest family offices have been steadily paring back their money allocation to hedge funds, to an average 4% versus private equity funds 8%, according to the latest annual UBS survey. The wealthy want to live a good life, and not stressed by big price swings.

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Even the argument that private equitys outperformance may have come from a liquidity premium is flawed. Some hedge funds, it turns out, can hold very illiquid assets. For instance, Hong Kong-based BFAM Partners, a prominent trader in Asias high-yield dollar bonds space, couldnt meet investors withdrawal requests in the June quarter. It had to settle with 77% in cash, and the rest paid out in shares in a liquidating vehicle. These days, traders who want to sell their Chinese developer bonds are struggling to find buyers.

Granted, mark-to-market accounting rules disadvantage hedge funds. Private equity valuation has a lot of gray zone. Their asset write-downs tend to be lagged, and may not arrive at all if the next recession turns out to be as short-lived as the one in March 2020.

Nonetheless, long-term investors such as Calpers, the $440 billion California public pension fund, look at investment multiples over long horizons. To them, hedge funds that manage to lose $10 billion in six months are scary.

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Private equity managers have been insatiable fund raisers, offering fee incentives to entice sovereign funds for long-term commitments and tapping into private banks for wealthy families. As they make their capital call, it will be even harder for hedge funds to justify to their investors why they are charging so much and what their value-add is. This industry is getting slaughtered by private equity.

More From Bloomberg Opinion:

 Billionaires Cant Get Enough of Private Equity: Shuli Ren

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This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Shuli Ren is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering Asian markets. A former investment banker, she was a markets reporter for Barrons. She is a CFA charterholder.

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After five years of negotiations involving the government, tech companies and civil society activists, the worlds largest democracy is sending its debate on privacy back to the drawing board. The Indian government has junked the personal data protection bill, and decided to replace it with a comprehensive legal framework. If the current anarchy wasnt bad enough, nobody knows what the revamped regime will contain  whether it it will put individuals first, like in Europe, or promote vested commercial and party-state interests, like in China.

Back in 2017, Indias liberals were hopeful. In July that year, New Delhi set up a panel under retired Justice B.N. Srikrishna to frame data protection norms. The very next month, the countrys Supreme Court held privacy to be a part of a constitutionally guaranteed right to life and liberty. But the optimism didnt take long to fade. The law introduced in parliament in December 2019 gave the government unfettered access to personal data in the name of sovereignty and public order  a move that will turn India into an Orwellian State, Srikrishna cautioned.

Those fears are coming true even without a privacy law. Razorpay, a Bengaluru-based payment gateway, was compelled by the police recently to supply data on donors to Alt News, a fact-checking portal. Although the records were obtained legally  as part of an investigation against the websites cofounder  there was no safeguard against their misuse. The risk that authorities could target opponents of the ruling Hindu right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party led to howls of protests about the stifling of dissent under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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The backdrop to Indias privacy debate has changed. Six years ago, mobile data was expensive, and most people  especially in villages  used feature phones. Thats no longer the case. By 2026, India will have 1 billion smartphone users, and the consumer digital economy is poised for a 10-fold surge in the current decade to $800 billion. To get a loan from the private sector or a subsidy from the state, citizens now need to part with far too much personal data than in the past: Dodgy lending apps ask for access to entire lists of phone contacts. The Modi government manages the worlds largest repository of biometric information and has used it to distribute $300 billion in benefits directly to voters. Rapid digitization without a strong data protection framework is leaving the public vulnerable to exploitation.

Europes general data protection regulation isnt perfect. But at least it holds natural persons to be the owners of their names, email addresses, location, ethnicity, gender, religious beliefs, biometric markers and political opinion. Instead of following that approach, India sought to give the state an upper hand against both individuals and private-sector data collectors. Large global tech firms, such as Alphabet Inc., Meta Platforms Inc. and Amazon.com Inc., were concerned about the now-dropped bills insistence on storing critical personal data only in India for national security reasons. Not only does localization get in the way of efficient cross-border data storage and processing, but as China has shown with Didi Global Inc., it can also be weaponized. The ride-hailing app was forced to delist in the U.S. months after it went public there against Beijings wishes and eventually slapped with a $1.2 billion fine for data breaches that severely affected national security.

Still, the scrapping of the Indian bill will bring little cheer to Big Tech if its replacement turns out to be even more draconian. Both Twitter Inc. and Metas WhatsApp have initiated legal proceedings against the Indian government  the former against arbitrary directions to block handles or take down content and the latter against demands to make encrypted messages traceable. The governments power to impose fines of up to 4% of global revenue  as envisaged in the discarded data protection law  can come in handy to make tech firms fall in line; so its unlikely that New Delhi will dilute it in the new legislation.

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For individuals, the big risk is the authoritarian tilt in Indias politics. The revamped framework may accord even less protection to citizens from a Beijing-inspired mix of surveillance state and surveillance capitalism than the abandoned law. According to the government, it was the 81 amendments sought by a joint parliamentary panel that made the current bill untenable. One such demand was to exempt any government department from privacy regulations as long as New Delhi is satisfied and state agencies follow just, fair, reasonable and proportionate procedures. Thats too much of a carte blanche. To prove overreach, for instance in the Alt News donors case, citizens would have to mount expensive legal battles. But to what end? If the law doesnt bat for the individual, courts will offer little help.

Minority groups in India have the most at stake. S. Q. Masood, an activist in the southern city of Hyderabad, sued the state of Telangana, after the police stopped him on the street during the Covid-19 lockdown, asked him to remove his mask and took a picture. Being Muslim and having worked with minority groups that are frequently targeted by the police, Im concerned that my photo could be matched wrongly and that I could be harassed, Masood told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. The zeal with which authorities are embracing technologies to profile individuals by pulling information scattered across databases shows a hankering for a Chinese-style system of command and control.

The abandoned Indian data protection legislation also wanted to allow voluntary verification of social-media users, ostensibly to check fake news. But as researchers at the Internet Freedom Foundation have pointed out, collection of identity documents by platforms like Facebook would leave users vulnerable to more sophisticated surveillance and commercial exploitation. Worse still, what starts out as voluntary may become mandatory if platforms start denying some services without identity checks, depriving whistleblowers and political dissidents of the right to anonymity. Since that wasnt exactly a bug in the rejected law, expect it to be a feature of Indias upcoming privacy regime as well.

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More From Bloomberg Opinion:

 When Data Privacy Became a Startups Nightmare: Andy Mukherjee

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 A Data-Driven End to Capitalism as We Know It: Andy Mukherjee

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Andy Mukherjee is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering industrial companies and financial services in Asia. Previously, he worked for Reuters, the Straits Times and Bloomberg News.

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Venture capitalist Marc Andreessen got caught last week engaging in housing hypocrisy. The author of a 2020 manifesto called A Time to Build, Andreessen is a vocal opponent of NIMBYism. Yet when it came to his own town of Atherton, California, Andreessen signed a public comment opposing a plan to add 137 units of multifamily housing by rezoning nine lots. (The comment, written in the first-person singular and a style unlike Andreessens, seems to have been composed by his wife.)

An anonymous emailer sent links to the relevant documents and local press coverage to me and, apparently, to Jerusalem Demsas of the Atlantic. Her subsequent article concluded that Andreessens hypocrisy illustrates why housing reforms have to take place at the state level, where officials are influenced by NIMBYs, but they have a much larger electorate to worry about and a mandate to address the cost of living and rising home prices, not just respond and implement local desires.

The incident proves more than that. It demonstrates that Californias state-level housing reforms are working  not as fast as they ideally would, but working nonetheless.

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Under a law passed in 1969, two years before Andreessen was born, every eight years California cities have to project the future demand for housing in several income tiers and specify where those homes might be built. The long, complicated and expensive ritual has produced many hearings and documents but not much housing. It offered too many loopholes.

Cities could lowball the numbers. They could identify theoretical sites in their plans but, when later faced with a real development proposal, impose delays and restrictions that required scaling down the project, increasing the sales prices or rents, or abandoning the whole thing.

Housing element plans didnt have to make sure the owners of prospective sites were willing to sell. As long as cities went through the right motions, they faced no consequences for obstructing new housing.

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Now they do.

California has toughened its approval process for the housing-element plans, and cities face fines of up to $600,000 a month if they dont come up with an acceptable plan. The state can review at any time whether the city is complying with its promises. If not, it can require streamlining development permissions to keep those commitments.

Cities that fail to meet their obligations face fines of up to $100,000 a month. They can lose state funding. The state can even suspend their power to regulate land use.

The process is still roundabout. Its a long way from letting supply meet demand. But as housing advocate Nolan Gray said an email, its a useful kludge for bringing at least a little liberalizing state oversight into a very dysfunctional and restrictive system of local land-use regulation.

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The threat of state punishment gives city officials political cover to loosen housing restrictions  like it or not. I dont want Atherton to change, city councilwoman Elizabeth Lewis said at a July 21 hearing. It is just heartbreaking and sickening to think were facing this from the state.

But Atherton has already changed dramatically over the past few decades. The growth of Silicon Valley has made a town just four miles from Stanford University or Facebook headquarters an extremely desirable place to live. The upper-middle-class people who bought houses there decades ago couldnt afford them today. Loosening housing restrictions would make room for people like them.

That fact seems lost on some longtime residents. Take one couple who filed their objections to allowing local schools to buy adjacent lots and build multiunit housing for their staff members. According to public records, they bought one of the areas more modest homes, with 1,950 square feet, for $370,000 in 1987. Its now worth 10 times that much.

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Then theres the woman who wrote that if the mandate to build 345 units including multi-family low-cost units is implemented, Atherton would be dramatically changed forever. She bought her place for $255,000 in 1976. Zillow estimates that the 3,820-square-foot house on 1.29 acres would sell for more than $10 million today.

Thanks to Proposition 13, these owners pay about $9,000 a year in property taxes, a fraction of what market-rate assessments would yield. A new $1 million townhouse would yield more property taxes than a single-family home that last sold 40 years ago.

Atherton is an island of state-enforced mansion zoning in the middle of one of the most productive regions on Earth, said Gray, who is research director at California YIMBY. Theres enormous demand for housing. The town is never going to be cheap.

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But without zoning, he hypothesized, youd likely overwhelmingly get a lot of seven-figure condos. That would be OK  every new unit permitted in a wealthy place like Atherton eases price pressure on housing further down the market.

In the more constrained reality, California requires Atherton to add 348 new housing units over the next eight years, up from 93 in the current cycle. Between 2015 and 2020, the city gained 90 new units, including 54 inexpensive accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, otherwise known as granny flats, guest houses or garage apartments. The town hit its numbers for very low income housing but not for any other income category.(1)

Atherton has added places for live-in domestic staff, but not for young Stanford professors. If its new plan doesnt do better, it will face serious penalties. Local officials feel the pressure.

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Confronting constituents outraged by the prospect of sharing the neighborhood with townhouse-dwelling riffraff, however, the Atherton city council revised its proposal. It eliminated zones for multiunit housing, including 40 units on a lot whose owner emphatically refuses to sell (shades of the old housing-element flimflam). The new plan still counts on a few multiunit additions on school property.

Mostly, it relies on two recent reforms that encourage single-family homeowners to add to the housing stock. One is the 2016 law requiring cities to approve ADUs, which Atherton says will supply 280 new units. The other is a 2020 law giving single-family homeowners two complementary rights: to build two units on their property and to split the lot in two, for a possible total of four homes. The new construction is exempt from challenges under the California Environmental Quality Act, a tool frequented used to block new housing.

With its large lots, Atherton is well suited to this approach. The plan attributes 96 new units to lot splits, including some already in the works.

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In the Atlantics version of the story, the NIMBYs won: As a result of a few hundred ultra-wealthy people, the town will remain exclusively for the elite. But thats not exactly the case.

For starters, its by no means sure that the state will approve the new plan. It could deem its assumptions unrealistic and require revisions.

More important, Atherton still has to meet the goals. The plan is no longer mere ritual. If the projections dont line up with reality, the town may have to allow some multiunit developments. When constituents complain, local politicians can blame the state.

And a major zoning transformation has already taken place. Making places like Atherton friendly to ADUs and especially to lot splits is a big deal. City planners identified more than 600 lots larger than an acre where the current house was built before 1970  the prescription for a teardown. With splits, they could account for more than 1,800 new homes.

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In a town with fewer than 7,500 residents, that represents enormous potential. As Gray pointed out about seven-figure condos, even expensive new homes free up supply elsewhere in the region.

Californias modest reforms have already pushed the countrys most expensive town into accepting smaller, cheaper homes. Letting NIMBYs vent is a civic ritual. Once its over, its time to build.

More from other writers at Bloomberg Opinion:

 Want to Cure the Housing Crisis? Kill Zoning: Virginia Postrel

 Can We Escape a Crash? The Housing Market Says Yes: Conor Sen

 The US Should Bribe Homeowners to Accept Greater Density: Eduardo Porter

(1) In San Mateo County, which includes Atherton, a family of four with a household income of $149,100, a couple making $119,300 or an individual earning $104,400 qualifies as low income. For very low income, the limits are $93,200, $74,600 and $65,250.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Virginia Postrel is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. She is a visiting fellow at the Smith Institute for Political Economy and Philosophy at Chapman University and author, most recently, of The Fabric of Civilization: How Textiles Made the World.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion

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Do we have a right to a well-trained police force? The question is one we should be discussing in the wake of two recent developments in the 2020 shooting death of Breonna Taylor: last weeks announcement that the federal investigation has led to indictments against four police officers, and the less publicized decision by a federal judge in late July to dismiss most of the lawsuit filed by Taylors neighbor, whose apartment was hit by the fusillade of bullets fired that night. Although the indictments are understandably the bigger story, the neighbors lawsuit might also point the way toward avoiding such tragedies in the future.

Taylor was killed when officers broke down the door of her apartment based on false (possibly fabricated) information that drugs were being delivered to her address. Her boyfriend, unaware that the intruders were police, fired what he described as a warning shot. In response, the officers discharged 32 rounds, wounding the boyfriend and killing Taylor. A state inquiry was justifiably criticized for its leniency toward the officers involved; the subsequent federal investigation has now borne fruit.

Meanwhile, behind the headlines, neighbor Chelsea Napper sued both the responding officers and the Louisville police department. Its undisputed that some bullets fired by police officers that night entered her upstairs apartment. Although no one was struck, Napper alleges that she and her family suffered invasion of privacy, unreasonable risk of death, excessive force, and emotional distress. And heres the key: Her suit named as defendants not only the officer whose shots entered her home, but also supervisors and the department itself on the theory that her civil rights had been violated because the police had been poorly trained.

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The inadequate training claim is the part of Nappers suit that the judge dismissed. That result was predictable, given that extant law sets an almost impossibly high bar for suits claiming that municipal employees were inadequately trained. But at least in cases where the issue is the training of police, perhaps the bar should be lowered. Its hard to see how else we can ensure that law enforcement officers get the training they need  and the citizens they serve deserve.

The police are laws sharp spear. We rely on them to use violence when necessary to maintain social order. Yet were rarely willing to spend whats necessary to help them do that part of the job effectively.

For instance, most police officers are poor shots, and when theyre under stress, they shoot even worse. And few events raise stress more than facing an armed suspect. One study found that experienced officers who shot fairly well on the range rapidly lost accuracy when faced with instructors who returned fire  even though the bullets in the exercise were soap pellets. Facing live rounds, one would expect the loss of accuracy to be greater.

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The same study reported that the more time the participants spent under fire, the smaller the effect of anxiety on their accuracy. The authors suggested that training with anxiety  that is, training that better simulates a real gunfight  could reduce inaccuracy even more.

Unfortunately, such training is increasingly rare. Recent years have seen a growing emphasis on paper learning  lectures and manuals and quizzes  with shooting often confined to virtual devices. Experts have warned that training in anything but a realistic environment will make little difference. Yet to save money, many departments limit the number of training rounds officers can fire, or prohibit practicing with the weapons they carry on the street. Never mind working through realistic armed-suspect scenarios.

Consider the night Taylor was shot. The police fired 32 rounds, of which six struck Taylor and one struck her boyfriend. That means that some 31 hit nothing they were supposed to. Small wonder that an outside review of Louisvilles police practices, commissioned by the city following Taylors death, was scathing on the subject of how well  or rather, how poorly  officers were trained. Not only did the training spend little time on what to do when someones shooting at you; those who attended classes on the subject were not required to practice what theyd been taught.

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The report recommended redesigning the way officers were trained to include regular scenario-based training and establishing an outdoor, long-range shooting facility where officers can use on-duty ammunition during firearms training. Good idea. And perhaps additional training could remedy an additional problem: that an escalation to violence grows much more likely when police interact with people who are Black.

But additional training will be expensive, at a time when we already spend a lot on law enforcement. A Bloomberg CityLab study conducted after reports that Uvalde (population 16,000) spends 40% of its budget on police found the figure not at all unusual: In cities of similar size, an average of 32% of their budgets pays for policing. And thats low compared to whats spent by many of the nations larger cities. According to 2020 figures compiled by the Vera Institute, Billings, Montana spent an astonishing 64% of its municipal budget on policing; Milwaukee, 58%; Kansas City, Missouri, 43%; Tampa and Phoenix, 41%; Austin, Texas 40%; Chicago 37%  just to take a few examples. (In Louisville, its 29%. In New York City, for those who might wonder, the figure is a mere 8%.)

A right to be policed by a properly trained force is bound to raise these figures considerably, at a time when budgets everywhere are being squeezed. Yet its hard to see the alternative. The police deserve our respect, not our derision. They do a job so taxing that it significantly lowers their life expectancy. Unfortunately, its a job often done so poorly that bystanders wind up dead or wounded. Ive long argued that better training would reduce that danger. By allowing suits like Nappers to go forward, the courts could help move us in the right direction.

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More From Writers at Bloomberg Opinion:

 Supreme Court Originalists Are Flying a False Flag: Noah Feldman

 Can Mass Shootings Be Foiled?: Sarah Green Carmichael

 Americas Gun Laws Are as Old as Its Gun Politics: Francis Wilkinson

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Stephen L. Carter is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. A professor of law at Yale University, he is author, most recently, of Invisible: The Story of the Black Woman Lawyer Who Took Down Americas Most Powerful Mobster.

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I am writing this from Amritsar, India, in the state of Punjab. The Sikh Golden Temple here is one of Indias leading attractions, and last night I shared space with thousands of people over the course of four or five hours. In that time, I saw only two people who might qualify as White Westerners.

That simple observation  and my travels over the past year to Denmark, Switzerland, Ireland, Portugal, Mexico, England, Argentina and Colombia  have led me to a theory about the future of travel: The world is entering a new era in which exotic journeys are for more of a travel elite than a moneyed elite.

International travel is rebounding in comfortable core locations (for Americans, at least) such as Mexico, London or Dublin. But people are less keen on going farther afield. Comfort travel  by which I mean not just nice hotels but familiar surroundings  will be OK. Challenge travel  involving not only faraway places but also unaccustomed experiences  faces a more uncertain future.

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Its not just my own experience. A colleague who is currently visiting Rajasthan relates that his guide says he hasnt worked with any foreign tourists for more than two years. The Chinese, the worlds most frequent travelers, reduced their international travel by 95% in 2021. Or consider the island of Bali, which is admittedly luxurious but still, to many Westerners, exotic. It was formerly a major tourist destination for North Americans, Europeans and Asians, with 6.3 million foreign visitors at its pre-pandemic peak. In all of 2021, it recorded just 45 foreign visitors  and estimates are that the island will need 10 years to recover to previous levels.

One possibility is that international tourism will soon return to its 2019 composition, as people overcome their inhibitions and worry less about Covid risk. I am doubtful.

For one thing, domestic US travel has already rebounded. Reservations for US national parks are difficult to get, and West Virginia and Maine are enjoying a newfound prosperity. Most people are flying and walking through airports without masks, a sign of some comfort with baseline Covid risk. And London, Dublin and Oaxaca had plenty of North American visitors. People seem to be able to satisfy their travel itch without going too far or taking too many chances.

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Another problem is that significant parts of Asia have yet to return to normal. China is pursuing a Zero Covid policy, and the quarantines discourage foreign visitors. Japan still is not open to unescorted foreign visitors, with outdoor masks required. While those restrictions will eventually pass, people are getting out of the habit of thinking of Asia as a major tourist destination. I am even reluctant to take connecting flights through Tokyo, like I used to, for fear that if my connection were canceled, I couldnt stay the night in Narita and enjoy some sushi.

When people are forced to adjust, as happened during peak pandemic times, they learn new things. What many Americans and Westerners have learned is that they enjoy comfort travel as much if not more than challenge travel. A lot of the new habits are going to stick. Especially with group travel, the preferences of comfort travelers will tend to win out in choosing a destination.

One slightly sorry truth is that many people do not very much enjoy challenge travel, which can be stressful and almost like work. When the social and group pressures to do it are removed or lessened, challenge travel is likely to decline, although the hardcore challenge travelers will remain and perhaps even expand their ambitions.

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The future for challenge travel, then, may be that it becomes both less popular and more intense. In this sense it may harken back to an earlier era of travel, where risk and difficulty were ever present and surprises were frequent. It was a time when there was not a Starbucks on every corner  or, as the case may be, a Subway sandwich shop. (There is one in the pedestrian district of Amritsar, but I dont think it is the future of dining here.)

In this re-emerging world of exotic travel, there will be less incentive to make everything comfortable and easy. Travelers who seek out the truly exotic will find new opportunities, and prices will stay low or perhaps fall further. The surrounding tourist infrastructure will be less likely to evolve toward familiarity. If you are a challenge traveler, maybe your favorite spot is less likely to get ruined.

This growing bifurcation of travel between comfort and challenge wont benefit everyone. Many people will play it safe, opting for Cabo rather than the wild Pacific coast of Colombia. They wont experience the world of challenge travel at all. I, for one, will not miss them.

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More From Bloomberg Opinion:

 Stuck In Air Travel Hell? Blame the Long Shadow of Covid: David Fickling

 Good Luck Making It to Your Vacation This Summer: Andrea Felsted

 Farewell, Chinese Tourist. Well Miss Each Other.: Adam Minter

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.

Tyler Cowen is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. He is a professor of economics at George Mason University and writes for the blog Marginal Revolution. He is coauthor of Talent: How to Identify Energizers, Creatives, and Winners Around the World.

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BALTIMORE  A Baltimore judge has scheduled Keith Davis Jr.s fifth murder trial for next May. By that time, Ivan Bates, the Democratic nominee for states attorney, is expected to have been sworn in and the decision of how to handle the controversial legal saga will fall to him. Wp Get the full experience. Choose your plan ArrowRight On the campaign trail, Bates said that he disagreed with States Attorney Marilyn Mosbys repeated prosecutions of Davis and that he believed the charges should be dismissed.

Despite persistent calls from Daviss supporters to Free Keith Davis Jr., Mosby has not wavered from her position that there is enough evidence to support a conviction and that her prosecutors are committed to seeking justice on behalf of Kevin Jones, the Pimlico Race Course security guard who was gunned down more than seven years ago. Mosbys term ends Jan. 2.

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The competing perspectives between the incumbent and her presumptive successor add uncertainty to an already unique case. Some scholars say Daviss repeated prosecutions are unprecedented in the courts, though Mosbys office disputes the contention that he is among the most prosecuted people in American history.

The incoming states attorney vowing not to pursue a case that the current states attorney is pursuing is a pretty unusual scenario, said David Jaros, faculty director of the Center for Criminal Justice Reform at the University of Baltimore School of Law.

This demonstrates a problem we wrestle with constantly in this country, Jaros said, that politics infect and shape prosecutorial decisions and actions.

Circuit Court Judge Melissa Phinn on Wednesday scheduled Daviss trial for May 1 through May 19. The lawyers are expected to handle his fifth murder trial, and his unrelated attempted murder trial, over those three weeks.

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Phinn scheduled motions hearings for March 28 through March 30, as both the prosecution and defense plan to call experts to debate the legal matters.

Bates has vowed in the past not to prosecute the case if elected. In March, he said he believed the charges against Davis should be dismissed. After winning the Democratic primary last month, he told reporters he couldnt speak about the case, but he had been vocal about his position on the campaign trail and said he keeps his promises.

As States Attorney-elect, I am no longer a private citizen. I must be mindful of the gag order imposed to the current States Attorney and how it would ethically apply to me. For this reason, I can provide no further comments on the Keith Davis Jr. case, Bates said last week in a statement to the Baltimore Sun.

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The gag order issued June 7 by Circuit Court Judge John Nugent prohibits lawyers involved in the case and their staffs from making statements outside court that could sway public opinion about the case. Its one of several outstanding legal matters set to be addressed before trial and before Bates takes office.

Daviss lawyers have accused Mosby of violating the gag order twice: when she spoke about the case on Baltimores public radio station, WYPR-FM, within hours of the order taking effect, and when she commented in July on a social media post from someone claiming to be a voter who said Mosby lost her support because of her administrations repeated prosecutions of Davis.

Nugent set a hearing for Aug. 12 to litigate the issue, ordering Mosby to appear in court to try to persuade the judge not to hold her in contempt of court.

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Daviss supporters became a thorn in Mosbys side. The two-term Democrat has clashed more than once with people calling for her to dismiss the charges.

Defense attorneys for Davis highlighted those spats and Mosbys public comments as part of a pattern of animosity they used to argue that Daviss murder and attempted murder cases should be dismissed. Mosbys office brought the latter charges against Davis almost a year after an alleged jail fight and weeks after he won a new murder trial.

Nugent stopped short of dismissing either case, but found Daviss lawyers had provided enough evidence to show there was a presumption of vindictiveness underlying his attempted murder case  an exceptionally rare ruling in the courts. His order requires Mosbys office to provide Daviss lawyers with any evidence of animosity before an evidentiary hearing about the legal issues.

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Online court records do not show a date for that hearing yet.

Bates won the primary election comfortably and faces no challengers in Novembers general election, though its possible that someone may launch a write-in candidacy. Its unclear whether his clear path to office and previous stance on the case will impact scheduling or the prosecutors position on the case now.

Mosbys office first charged Davis with murder in Joness death in 2016, days after he was largely absolved in an attempted armed robbery case that stemmed from an incident the same morning Jones was killed. The jury found he was guilty of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm.

Police and prosecutors say that firearm was recovered from a garage that officers chased Davis into the day of Joness death. The officers suspected Davis was armed and had robbed an unlicensed cabdriver. They fired 32 rounds at Davis, striking him three times.

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The jury deadlocked at Daviss first murder trial in 2017. His second trial the same year ended in a conviction that was overturned when a judge found prosecutors withheld information from the defense. Another hung jury came at his third trial, in 2018.

In 2019, a jury found Davis guilty but the conviction was reversed in the aftermath of an appellate court ruling that applied to jury selection across the state.

Davis is being held in jail without bond.

 Baltimore Sun

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NAIROBI, Kenya  Fewer Kenyans voted Tuesday in an unusual presidential election where a longtime opposition leader who is backed by the outgoing president faces the brash deputy president who styles himself as the outsider. Turnout was just 56% an hour before polls closed as some voters cited little hope of real change.

The election was considered close but calm. East Africas economic hub could see a presidential runoff for the first time. Economic issues such as widespread corruption could be of greater importance than the ethnic tensions that have marked past votes with sometimes deadly results.

Kenya is a standout with its relatively democratic system in a region where some leaders are notorious for clinging to power for decades. Its stability is crucial for foreign investors, the most humble of street vendors and troubled neighbors like Ethiopia and Somalia.

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The top candidates are Raila Odinga, a democracy campaigner who has vied for the presidency for a quarter-century, and 55-year-old Deputy President William Ruto, who has stressed his journey from a humble childhood to appeal to struggling Kenyans long accustomed to political dynasties.

In moments like this is when the mighty and the powerful come to the realization that it is the simple and the ordinary that eventually make the choice, Ruto told journalists. I look forward to our victorious day. He urged Kenyans to be peaceful and respect others choices.

I have confidence that the people of Kenya are going to speak loudly in favor of democratic change, Odinga told journalists. A cheering crowd jogged alongside his convoy as he arrived to vote in Nairobi.

To win outright, a candidate needs more than half of all votes and at least 25% of the votes in more than half of Kenyas 47 counties. No outright winner means a runoff election within 30 days. Attention turned Tuesday night to classrooms and other vote-counting locations across the country as paper ballots were inspected one by one.

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Results must be announced within a week, but impatience is expected if they dont come before this weekend. What we want to try to avoid is a long period of anxiety, of suspense, said Bruce Golding, who leads the Commonwealth election observer group.

Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, the son of Kenyas first president, cut across the usual ethnic lines and angered Ruto by backing longtime rival Odinga after their bitter 2017 election contest. But both Odinga and Ruto have chosen running mates from the countrys largest ethnic group, the Kikuyu.

The 77-year-old Odinga made history by choosing running mate Martha Karua, a former justice minister and the first woman to be a leading contender for the deputy presidency. She has inspired many women in a country where female candidates commonly face harassment.

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Rising food and fuel prices, debt at 67% of GDP, youth unemployment at 40% and corruption put economic issues at the center of an election in which unregulated campaign spending highlighted the countrys inequality. But personalities still matter.

We need mature people to lead, not someone who abuses people. Someone who respects elders, said 55-year-old teacher Rosemary Mulima, who arrived at a polling station on Nairobis outskirts to find about 500 people in line before dawn. She had very high hopes for Odinga on his fifth try,

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission estimated that final turnout would be above 60%, far lower than the 80% in the 2017 election. That would make it Kenyas lowest turnout in 15 or even 20 years. The electoral commission signed up less than half of the new voters it had hoped for, just 2.5 million.

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More than 6.5 million people had voted by midday, or about 30% of the 22 million registered.

The problems from (the previous election), the economy, the day-to-day life, are still here, said 38-year-old shopkeeper Adrian Kibera. We dont have good choices, he said, calling Odinga too old and Ruto too inexperienced.

Difficulties were reported at times with the electronic voting system, and presidential candidate George Wajackoyah told journalists that some voting kits in his stronghold werent working. Though polling in low single figures, Wajackoyah and his pledges to legalize marijuana prompted questions over whether he could draw enough votes to force a runoff.

The electoral commission said about 200 voting kits had failed out of more than 46,000, calling it not widespread and normal for technology to break down at times.

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Kenyans hope for a peaceful vote. Elections can be exceptionally troubled, as in 2007 when the country exploded after Odinga claimed the vote had been stolen from him and more than 1,000 people were killed. Ruto was indicted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity for his role in the violence, but his case was terminated amid allegations of witness tampering.

In 2017, the high court overturned the election results, a first in Africa, after Odinga challenged them over irregularities. He boycotted the new vote and proclaimed himself the peoples president, bringing allegations of treason. A public handshake between him and Kenyatta calmed the crisis.

This is likely Odingas last try. Ruto and Odinga have said they will accept the official results  if the vote is free and fair. It is every Kenyans hope, the president told journalists.

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With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

Baidu to introduce Apollo autonomous driving project to Shanghai's Lin-gang Special Area

Beijing Baidu Smart Mobility Technology Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Baidu Inc., today signed an agreement with the management committee of Lin-gang Special Area to co-work on introducing the Apollo autonomous driving project in this area.

Photo credit: the management committee of Lin-gang Special Area

SGMW, JD Logistics cement cooperation

JD Logistics announced today it would join hands with SAIC-GM-Wuling to deepen cooperation on the integrated supply chain for after-sales components, and jointly explore the cooperation prospects in intelligent warehouse logistics technologies, vehicle purchase service, and other fields.

Hongqi E-QM5 to hit market on August 17

FAW Group's premium auto brand, Hongqi, is about to put the E-QM5 PLUS onto the market on August 17. The all-electric model is likely to feature a range of up to 600km.

NIO sets up sales service company in Yantai city

NIO Sales and Services Co., Ltd. recently founded a wholly-owned subsidiary in Yantai city, Shandong province. Incorporated on August 3 and named Yantai NIO Sales and Services Co., Ltd., the new company has a line of businesses covering sales of automobiles, NEV production & testing facilities, and charging piles, as well as App-based ride-hailing service operation.

NIO's energy subsidiary records registered capital increase

According to the corporate information provider Tianyancha, NIO Energy Investment (Hubei) Co., Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of NIO Holding Ltd., recently saw its registered capital surge to 1 billion yuan ($148.1 million) from 70 million yuan ($10.37 million).

Bosch-backed VC firm invests in Chinese battery design solution provider Electroder

Suzhou Electroder Technology Co., Ltd. ("Electroder"), a Chinese battery design service provider, recently completed its Series A funding round with tens of millions of yuan raised.

JIDU to kick off presale of mass-produced automotive robot in October

JIDU, the intelligent auto brand jointly founded by Baidu and Geely, unveiled the latest development of its car-making progress at its Shanghai headquarters, JIDU ROBO BASE.

JAC Group sales up 11.55% YoY in July

In July, JAC Group sold 43,800 vehicles, an increase of 11.55% year over year. In the first seven months of the year, the groups cumulative sales volume amounted to 279,000 vehicles.

Great Wall Motor posts 11.32% YoY growth in July 2022 sales

Great Wall Motor (GWM) announced on Tuesday its monthly auto sales reached 101,920 units in July 2022, growing 11.32% from the previous year, while also ticking up 0.73% from the previous month.

Tesla sells 28,217 China-made vehicles in July 2022

In the seventh month of 2022, Tesla sold 28,217 China-made vehicles in wholesale, representing a 14% decline over the previous year, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

China's locally-made PV retail sales jump 20.1% YoY in July 2022

In July 2022, China's passenger vehicle ("PV") retail sales amounted to 1.843 million units, jumping 20.1% compared to the previous year, while sliding 6.3% from the previous month, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).
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SYDNEY  Australias most populous state took a major step toward banning Nazi symbols on Tuesday when the New South Wales Parliaments lower house passed a bill that would criminalize their display. The bill must pass the upper chamber to become law. Are you on Telegram? Subscribe to our channel for the latest updates on Russia's war in Ukraine. ArrowRight Victoria, Australias second-most populous state, in June became the first in Australia to pass a law banning the public display of Nazi swastikas.

Queensland and Tasmania states have foreshadowed similar laws, which would mean half Australias eight states and territories and most of the Australian population were banned from displaying Nazi symbols.

New South Wales Attorney General Mark Speakman told Parliament on Tuesday the Nazi swastika harmed and distressed community members, including those of the Jewish faith. In 2020, New South Wales Police received 31 reports of the display of Nazi flags, including one from a home near a Sydney synagogue.

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Hateful and vilifying conduct is completely unacceptable in our community, Speakman said.

Using or displaying Nazi flags or Nazi memorabilia bearing swastikas would be banned under the law.

The legislation would allow the use of the symbol for religious and education purposes. The swastika for Buddhist, Hindu, Jain and other faith communities is an ancient and sacred symbol.

Individuals would face 12 months in prison or an 11,000 Australian dollar ($7,670) fine for breaking the laws, while corporations faced AU$55,000 ($38,350) fines.

In an amendment to the legislation, a review of the laws would need to be held within a 3 1/2-year after they come into effect.

Victoria has set penalties of AU$22,000 ($15,340) and 12 months in prison for displaying the Nazi swastika.

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BEIRUT  The leader of Lebanons militant Hezbollah group issued a warning Tuesday to archenemy Israel over the two countries maritime border dispute, saying that any arm that reaches to steal Lebanons wealth will be cut off. Are you on Telegram? Subscribe to our channel for the latest updates on Russia's war in Ukraine. ArrowRight Hassan Nasrallahs remarks came amid intensified U.S. efforts to resolve a more than a decade-old maritime border dispute between Israel and Lebanon, which have officially been at war since Israels creation in 1948.

Both countries claim some 860 square kilometers (330 square miles) of the Mediterranean Sea. Lebanon also claims that the Karish gas field is in disputed territory under ongoing maritime border negotiations while Israel says it lies within its internationally recognized economic waters.

Amos Hochstein, a senior adviser for energy security at the U.S. State Department who has been mediating in the dispute, met with top Lebanese officials last week. After the talks, he said the two countries are getting closer to reaching a deal in the dispute.

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Hochstein was later reported to have visited Israel and is expected back in Beirut in the coming weeks with Israeli responses to Lebanese requests.

Israel and Hezbollah are bitter enemies that fought a monthlong war in the summer of 2006. Israel considers the Iran-backed Shiite militant group its most serious immediate threat, estimating that Hezbollah has some 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at Israel.

In his speech during a rally south of Beirut, attended by tens of thousands to mark Ashoura, Nasrallah said Lebanon should be ready to all possibilities.

We will not tolerate the idea that our wealth be stolen, Nasrallah said.

Ashoura is one of the most important days on the Shiites religious calendar, commemorating the 7th century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammads grandson Hussein.

Lebanon badly needs an agreement over the maritime border in the Mediterranean as it hopes to exploit offshore gas reserves to try and alleviate what has become the worst economic crisis in its modern history.

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Last month, the Israeli military shot down three unarmed Hezbollah drones flying over the Karish field. Lebanons Prime Minister Najib Mikati at the time criticized Hezbollah, saying the move could pose risks to the country. Hezbollah later aired drone footage showing Israeli ships in the area.

Dont make mistakes with Lebanon nor with the people of Lebanon, Nasrallah said. Any arm that tries to reach for any of this (Lebanese) wealth will be cut off.

Nasrallah also warned Israel not to target any Palestinian officials in Lebanon amid a cease-fire that ended three days of deadly fighting between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group in the Gaza Strip. The Islamic Jihad group, along with the much larger Hamas militant group that runs Gaza, is a Hezbollah ally.

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ISTANBUL  Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Saturday blamed Israel for killing Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, a prominent Iranian nuclear scientist, saying it was aimed at causing turmoil before President-elect Joe Biden takes office and that Tehran would respond at the "right time." Are you on Telegram? Subscribe to our channel for the latest updates on Russia's war in Ukraine. ArrowRight Fakhrizadeh was killed in a daytime ambush east of Tehran on Friday, Iranian authorities said. Though once regarded as the architect of Irans disbanded effort to build a nuclear weapon nearly two decades ago, he played a far less prominent role in Irans current programs involving reactors and uranium enrichment.

But the attack stung Iran for apparent lapses in security and intelligence and threatened wider fallout in the region less than two months before Biden takes office and seeks a possible reset in relations with Iran.

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Rouhani, however, suggested that Iran could calibrate its possible responses with an eye toward the end of President Trumps maximum pressure campaign, which is supported by Israel.

Their pressure era is coming to an end and the global conditions are changing, he said. Officials in Israel have not commented.

A spokesperson for the European Union released a statement Saturday calling the attack a criminal act that runs counter to the principle of respect for human rights the E.U. stands for.

The statement continued, In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever for all parties to remain calm and exercise maximum restraint in order to avoid escalation which cannot be in anyones interest.

In a statement Saturday, Rouhani blamed the usurper Zionist regime  a reference to Israel  for the killing and said Fakhrizadehs death would not impede Irans scientific achievements. In a separate speech, Rouhani tied the killing to Trumps upcoming departure from office.

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Trump withdrew the United States from a nuclear pact that Iran struck with world powers five years ago. His administration has ratcheted up sanctions and other pressures on Tehran since abandoning the deal aimed at reining in Tehrans nuclear program. Biden has pledged to work more closely with allies on Iran policies and to work to rejoin the nuclear agreement.

This brutal assassination shows that our enemies are passing through anxious weeks, weeks that they feel their pressure era is coming to an end and the global conditions are changing, Rouhani said. He added that Israel aimed to cause commotion and turmoil.

A senior U.S. official said that the United States had nothing to do with the scientists killing and believes Iran has been told that. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive matter, said there was little doubt Israel was behind the attack.

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There is absolutely no information indicating that it was anyone other than the Israelis, the official said, adding that the Trump administration has no desire to get drawn into a regional war by Israel.

An Iranian scientist was killed in an ambush near Tehran Nov. 27 that could elevate tension between Iran and its foes in the last weeks of the Trump presidency. (Video: Reuters)

Germany  one of the world powers part of the nuclear pact  echoed the E.U.s call for avoiding escalation.

The killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh is once again worsening the situation in the region, at a time when we absolutely do not need such an escalation, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas told Germanys Funke media group. He called on all those involved to refrain from taking steps that could lead to a further escalation of the situation.

The killing added to soaring tensions in the region amid fears that a confrontation between Iran and the United States or Israel could erupt before Biden takes office.

The front page of Irans hard-line Kayhan newspaper warned Israel to await an eye for an eye. Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, two Iran-backed Palestinian militias, issued statements Friday condemning the assassination.

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Lebanons Hezbollah, another Iranian ally, said Friday that the response to this crime was in Irans hands, Reuters reported.

Israels Channel 12 News reported Saturday that Israeli embassies around the world had been put on high alert.

The Pentagon announced Friday that the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier had been deployed back to the Middle East following maritime exercises in the Indian Ocean. While the timing of the announcement was unusual, the deployment had been initiated before Fridays attack to support U.S. troops withdrawing from Iraq and Afghanistan.

A spokeswoman for the U.S. Navys Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, said there were no specific threats that triggered the return of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, Reuters reported.

Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned in tweets Saturday that there would be definitive punishment of the perpetrators, while Iran would continue following the scientific and technological attempts of the martyr in all segments of his activity, in a possible reference to Fakhrizadehs nuclear work.

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Fakhrizadeh, a physics professor who was believed to be about 60, was widely regarded as the driving force behind Irans nuclear program, including clandestine efforts to develop a nuclear bomb in the early 2000s.

Intelligence officials identified him as the head of the Amad Plan, the secret nuclear weapons research program that sought to develop as many as six nuclear bombs before Iranian leaders ordered a halt to the program in 2003.

Once a reclusive figure, Fakhrizadeh had more recently raised his profile, allowing himself to appear on official Iranian websites, including during events held by Irans supreme leader.

Iran has recently increased its stockpile of enriched uranium, insisting it is intended only to power its nuclear energy plants and a research reactor. Its adversaries have countered that it puts the nation closer to producing warhead-grade material.

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Israel, which maintains its own undeclared nuclear weapons program, has beseeched the international community to take tougher actions against Irans nuclear program and Fakhrizadeh specifically. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted the scientists photograph at a news conference in 2018 and advised the world to remember his name.

More recently, speculation has risen that Netanyahu has pushed the Trump administration to strike against Irans nuclear assets before Bidens inauguration.

The Trump administration and the Biden team have yet to comment on the killing. On Friday, Trump retweeted veteran Israeli journalist Yossi Melman, who described the attack as a major psychological and professional blow for Iran.

Melman, author of Spies Against Armageddon, a history of Israeli clandestine operations, said in an interview that he would not be surprised to learn that the killing was an Israeli operation, but has gotten no such confirmation from within the government.

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There is total silence, he said. In this case, it is likely to stay that way.

For Israel, Fakhrizadeh was the number one target among the scientists, he added.

While many saw the timing of the killing as an attempt to complicate a future Biden administrations diplomacy with Iran, Melman said it was more likely driven by logistics, since such an ambush would have taken months to prepare.

The attack  which Iranian officials said involved a car bomb and gunmen who raked the scientists car  recalled the shadowy killings of at least four Iranian nuclear scientists from 2010 to 2012.

Accounts of Fakhrizadehs killing indicated his movements were being tracked and the attack  on a roadway east of Tehran near Mount Damavand, a peak that features in ancient folklore  was coordinated.

Sepah Cybery, a social media channel affiliated with Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said Saturday that it believed 12 attackers were involved, in addition to Fakhrizadehs four bodyguards, two of whom it reported were shot and are in serious condition.

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Irans Fars news agency reported Friday that the car explosion sent debris flying 300 meters away and damaged an electricity tower. It also reported that one of the bodyguards was shot and killed while trying to protect Fakhrizadeh, though other outlets reported the security worker was injured.

In a message on Twitter on Friday, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) wrote: If the primary purpose of the killing of Mr. Fakhrizadeh was to make it harder to restart the Iran nuclear agreement, then this assassination does not make America, Israel or the world safer.

Former CIA director John O. Brennan, a strong Trump critic, tweeted that the attack was a criminal act & highly reckless.

It risks lethal retaliation & a new round of regional conflict, he wrote. Iranian leaders would be wise to wait for the return of responsible American leadership on the global stage & to resist the urge to respond against perceived culprits.

Berger reported from Beirut and Hendrix from Jerusalem. Ellen Nakashima in Washington and Michael Birnbaum in Riga, Latvia, contributed to this report.

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JERUSALEM  Israeli troops killed three Palestinian militants and wounded dozens in a shootout that erupted during an arrest raid in the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday. The shootout came a day after a cease-fire ended three days of fighting between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group in the Gaza Strip.

In a separate incident in the West Bank city of Hebron, the Palestinian Health Ministry said a 17-year-old was killed by Israeli fire. The Israeli military said forces were responding with live fire, among other means, to a violent protest.

Israeli police said security forces encircled the home of Ibrahim al-Nabulsi, who they say was wanted for a string of shootings in the West Bank earlier this year. They confirmed that al-Nabulsi and another Palestinian militant were killed in a shootout at the scene, and that troops found arms and explosives in his home.

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The Israeli military said that troops came under attack from Palestinians throwing rocks and explosives, and that soldiers responded with live fire. It confirmed Palestinians were shot, but did not elaborate on their condition.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said three people were killed  al-Nabulsi, Islam Sabouh and Hussein Jamal Taha  and at least 40 were wounded.

The armed wing of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbass Fatah party, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, later claimed the three as its members and vowed retaliation. The Fatah party said the organization mourns its martyred sons and said the three had sacrificed their lives in defense of our great people and their right to freedom and independence.

Israel has conducted near nightly arrest raids in the West Bank in recent months as part of a crackdown on Palestinian militant groups, foremost Islamic Jihad, in the aftermath of a string of deadly attacks targeting Israelis earlier this year that left 19 people dead. Dozens of Palestinians have been killed in clashes with Israeli troops during these arrest raids.

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Last week, Israel arrested Bassam al-Saadi, a senior Islamic Jihad militant in the West Bank city of Jenin, during one of the nightly operations. The group said it was going on alert, and on Friday, Israel launched a series of strikes on Islamic Jihad targets in the Gaza Strip in what it said was a response to an imminent threat by the militant group.

During the three days of Gaza fighting, at least 46 Palestinians were killed, including 16 children and four women, and 311 were wounded, the Palestinian Health Ministry said. Twelve of those killed were Islamic Jihad militants, one was from a smaller armed group, and two were Hamas-affiliated policemen who were not taking part in the fighting, according to the armed factions.

Israel estimated that a total of 47 Palestinians were killed, including 14 killed by misfired Islamic Jihad rockets. It said 20 militants and seven civilians died in Israeli airstrikes and that it was still investigating six deaths.

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Israels caretaker prime minister, Yair Lapid, applauded the cooperation by Israeli security personnel and said that al-Nabulsis killing was another step in our uncompromising struggle against terrorism.

Nabil Abu Rdeneh, a spokesman for Abbas, warned that continued violence could further ignite the region, and accused the Israeli government of shedding Palestinian blood to secure internal political capital ahead of November parliamentary elections.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked about the killings Tuesday, said: Were, obviously, very concerned about the increased violence that weve seen in the occupied West Bank, including the killing today of three Palestinians in Nablus and one in Hebron following clashes with Israeli security forces.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calls on all sides to demonstrate calm and calls on the relevant authorities to carry out independent, transparent investigations into all deaths and injuries, Dujarric said.

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Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 Mideast war and the Palestinians seek it as the heartland of their future state. Israel views the West Bank as the biblical and historical heartland of the Jewish people, and has constructed dozens of settlements, now home to over 400,000 Israelis.

The Palestinians and much of the international community consider Israels West Bank settlements a violation of international law and an obstacle to a peaceful resolution of the decades-long conflict.

___

Associated Press writer Edith M. Lederer contributed from the United Nations.

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KARBALA, Iraq  Shiites in Iraq, Lebanon and Pakistan chanted, paraded and beat their chests on Tuesday as they marked Ashoura, one of the most important dates on the religious calendar, commemorating the 7th century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammads grandson Hussein. Are you on Telegram? Subscribe to our channel for the latest updates on Russia's war in Ukraine. ArrowRight The symbols of Shiite piety and penitence blanketed major cities in Iraq, where Hussein was believed killed at the battle of Karbala, south of Baghdad, in 680 A.D.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people converge on Karbala, some 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of Baghdad, to observe the solemn holy day.

Shiites carried out one of the most spectacular rituals of the holy day, involving thousands of people sprinting from an area outside the center of Karbala toward the gold-domed shrine of Hussein to enact their rush to answer their beloved saints cries for help in battle.

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Shiites see Hussein and his descendants as the rightful heirs to the prophet. His killing at the hands of a rival Muslim faction embodies the rift between the Sunni and Shiite sects of Islam and continues to shape the identity of the minority branch of Islam today.

The public rituals of Ashoura often fuel sectarian tensions in places like Iraq, Lebanon and Pakistan where Islams two main sects both reside.

Security forces were on high alert for any violence, as Sunni extremist groups that consider the Shiites heretics have seized on the occasion to mount attacks in years past.

Pakistans Interior Ministry warned militants could target the Ashoura commemorations. Under stepped-up security measures, mass rallies continued for a second day in Islamabad and major cities across Pakistan, where participants rhythmically beat their bodies with knife-edged chains. Men staggered through the streets, blood dripping down their backs.

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Imam Hussain taught us to fight against oppression, said Syed Muhammad Haider Naqvi, a Shiite scholar at a procession in Karachi, Pakistans largest city. He taught us not to let anyone usurp others rights.

In Iraq, the powerful cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has used the emotional religious occasion to stir up support for his movement, deepening the countrys inter-Shiite divisions. Unable to form a government, Iraq descended further into political chaos last week when thousands of al-Sadrs supporters stormed and occupied the parliament building. Their sit-in continues outside the assembly, making it impossible for lawmakers to convene and raising the specter of civil strife.

In the Shiite-dominated Baghdad suburb of Sadr City, al-Sadrs portrait hangs from nearly every door. Processions of men and boys expressed extreme fervor in the Ashoura rituals of self-flagellation. They beat their heads and chests in unison and whipped themselves with chains until blood started flowing.

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We inherited this from our fathers and grandfathers, said participant Hamza Abdul-Jalil. God willing, we will continue on this path.

In Lebanon, where Shiites make up about a third of the Mediterranean nations 5 million people, processions shut down areas across the country and Beiruts biggest suburb, the stronghold of the militant Hezbollah group.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah addressed the large gathering of Ashoura mourners in south Beirut, delivering a stern warning to archenemy Israel over the two countries maritime border dispute.

We are serious in this battle to the maximum level, Nasrallah proclaimed to the procession.

Tens of thousands of men, women and children shrouded in black marched through the streets, waving yellow Hezbollah flags. The chants of mourners and thunder of blood-soaked men beating their chests echoed in the air.

At your service, oh Hussein, they cried.

___

Associated Press writers Munir Ahmed in Islamabad and Bassem Mroue in Beirut contributed.

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Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Suzhou Electroder Technology Co., Ltd. ("Electroder"), a Chinese battery design service provider, recently completed its Series A funding round with tens of millions of yuan raised.

The company's existing shareholder, Sinovation Ventures, still joined the fresh round as well. Notably, Robert Bosch Venture Capital GmbH ("RBVC"), a corporate venture capital company of the Bosch Group, also took part in the round as a new investor.

Batteries designed by Electroder; photo credit: Sinovation Ventures

The proceeds from the new financing round will be mainly used by Electroder to strengthen product R&D, establish early-phase sales and service team, initiate building of an R&D hub and global business deployment, as well as tighten its intellectual property system.

Founded in 2019, Electroder focuses on developing digital tools and solutions for the electric vehicle ("EV") battery industry. It is dedicated to offering support to battery's whole lifecycle which involves links from design, manufacturing, to running through a forward R&D process.

Based on a proprietary "heterogeneous" underlying model, the lithium-ion battery SaaS (Software as a service) design platform developed by Electroder upends the traditional trial-and-error battery development method, so that the development period of a new-type battery can be shortened to 6-8 months from 36 months with around 50% R&D costs reduced, according to a press release from RBVC.

Aside from the cooperation with many Chinese battery manufacturers and automakers, Electroder has offered a battery cell design scheme to a European Giga Factory, whose name has not been disclosed yet.
There have been calls for action and demonstrations over the number of children in Northern Ireland who are living in poverty.

Koulla Yiasouma, Commissioner for Children and Young People, said between 20-25% have been living in poverty consistently for the last 20 years.

She told an event at Feile An Phobail that she did not understand why people were not out on the streets demonstrating about the issue.

Her call was echoed at the Eradicating Child Poverty  It Can Be Done event at St Marys University College in west Belfast on Monday.

Dr Goretti Horgan, a senior lecturer in social policy at the Ulster University, said she fears disabled children and adults will die this winter if they are unable to heat their homes.

John Barry, a professor in green political theory at the Queens University, spoke of deep frustration at the situation, and called for groups to come together to demonstrate.

Dr Julie Anne Maney, a consultant in paediatric emergency medicine, described seeing the outworking of child poverty on a daily basis in her work, including seeing children who were so hungry they stuffed toast into their nappies.

Im seeing children day and daily who Im patching up to send them home to lives that made them sick in the first place. Its sticking plaster after sticking plaster, she said.

Its abhorrent and it just has to stop.

People ask me what can I do, donate to food banks. First of all you can vote for a government that will look after these children and so far they havent.

We need to invest from the early ages, in pregnant women, we need early years intervention.

This was the first year since the coronavirus pandemic that the annual event took place in person at St Marys University College in west Belfast.

Ms Yiasouma said child poverty had been among her priorities when she first became childrens commissioner seven years ago, and said while there has been progress on other priorities she identified, there has been inertia around children in poverty.

She said more than 110,000 children are living in poverty, adding that two out of three children in poverty are in working households.

Ms Yiasouma referred as a disgrace to a huge rise in the number of families relying on food banks to feed their children and predictions that by next January just over 70% of households in Northern Ireland will be in fuel poverty.

Its governments responsibility to ensure that children are not living in poverty, its governments responsibility to make sure there is an adequate social security system and safety net for our families, she said.

She has called for an anti-poverty strategy to include a new child payment, restore the value of key social security benefits, reduce family outgoings, make education free, affordable accessible quality childcare and targeted interventions

Its not going to be cheap but the price for not doing it is bigger, its bigger for our education system, its bigger for our health system but also its bigger because of what were doing to the life outcomes of our children living in poverty. We cant afford not to do it, she said.

Dr Horgan stressed the importance of both reducing costs for households as well as increasing income to make a huge difference.

She suggested universal pre-school meals, free public transport and that work is done for Northern Ireland to catch up on services for disabled.

In this coming winter I really fear that we will see disabled children and adults actually dying because of being unable to heat their homes, she said.

Professor Barry stressed that the climate crisis is part of the cost-of-living crisis, and called for measures such as free public transport as well as getting rid of school uniforms.

We need to get angry, its raining reports on climate crisis and child poverty, we dont need more reports, we need more action, he said.

People are going to be die because of a really bad winter, why isnt that the major issue, why arent we seeing our politicians rushing to say they demand an emergency insulation schemes, even just one room in each low income home.

We are going to need in my view more non-violent direct action up to and including occupying empty community centres,

We have to get ourselves organised bringing together different groups in terms of a common cause, child poverty, inequality and the climate crisis.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size The rock band is the electric through-line of Australian popular music: vocals, guitars, bass, and drums, whatever the decade. But if the instruments stay much the same, what those groups represent changes sharply, to reflect their times. Thinks of the Easybeats in the 1960s, with their immigrant drive, or the defiant passion of Cold Chisel in the 1970s, who refused to toe any line dictated by authority. Every era gets its authentic amplification, and you can trace the lineage onwards through Powderfingers egalitarian concern and Gang of Youths embrace of raw passion. But what does the next generations emblematic rock band look and sound like? The band would be the first verse-to-chorus summation of Generation Z, the successor to Millennials and a cohort primed by digital culture and raised on climate changes looming impact and the need to protect their mental health through the pandemic years. If you want to turn that outline into an outlier, please consider Spacey Jane. The Perth four-piece  vocalist and guitarist Caleb Harper, guitarist Ashton Hardman-Le Cornu, bassist Peppa Lane, and drummer Kieran Lama  have enjoyed an unstoppable ascendance over the past three years. Zooming up through Triple J, the quartet saw their debut album June 2020s Sunlight, debut at two on the national charts. In June this year its successor, Here Comes Everybody, took the extra step and debuted at one. Out of lockdown and able to tour, both nationally and increasingly overseas, Spacey Jane are playing five consecutive nights at Melbournes Forum Theatre later this month. They may yet add more shows, or it could be the last time they play a room that size in Melbourne before they graduate to arenas. Measured by commercial benchmarks, the band and their buoyant alternative-tinged singles, have achieved startling success. But sales and sold-out shows arent the only metric that matter to the group. Spacey Janes latest album, Here Comes Everybody, debuted at No. 1 on the national charts. Credit:Sam Hendel Sitting in his Christchurch hotel room, midway through a New Zealand tour, Caleb Harper talks about Spacey Jane with unadorned honesty, as if its the mechanism that gives him both purpose and satisfaction. Rocks traditional taxonomy dictates that bands are gangs, or a boys club, but Spacey Jane feels both broader and necessarily inclusive: something to share with people close to you, a business to be nurtured, a means of expression, an example to be set. We really love each other and are so grateful that we get to do this together. The thing that has changed the most is that before we were just friends doing this collective thing for fun, but now were bonded through fear of the unknown and the end of our safety net, and being in this business together, Harper says.

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More than half of what we do now is unrelated to creating or performing music. We have to have each others back because we all depend on each other, he adds. Its unspoken, but then it is spoken about some of the times. We have a true commitment to each other and what we do. I first spoke to Harper in February 2020, while putting together a list of new Australian artists to watch out for. Spacey Jane had just cracked Triple Js Hottest 100 for the first time with their whirlwind single Good for You, although Harper had missed the big moment: when the countdown got to 90 he figured they hadnt made the cut and did a bottle-shop run. He was in the queue when it came in at 80 and his phone started blowing up. A year later Booster Seat would reach number two of the 2021 Hottest 100. Harper was not at the bottle shop. Even then the lanky frontman had an innate understanding of what he got from making music and what other people got from listening to it. Not much of what I write is sweet. Its shrouded in bubbly, indie sounds, but the last two years have been pretty tough for me in an emotional sense and a relationship breakdown is at the forefront of my mind, Harper told me. Everyone can relate to bad things happening in their lives, but at the same time they want to sing and dance along, too. That final sentence could be considered something of a manifesto for Harpers songwriting. Sunlight, and particularly Here Comes Everybody, delve deep into his teenage depression, subsequent bouts of indecision and self-destruction, and heartbreak that comes tempered with regret and despair. The sound coming from my head thats screaming I dont feel right, as Hardlight succinctly puts in. The week Here Comes Everybody was released, Spacey Jane did signing sessions at record stores in six different capital cities on consecutive days. The fan queues were lengthy, and because the band hadnt set a time limit, they stayed for hours until everyone waiting got their signature and, in many cases, the chance to communicate to Harper and his bandmates what certain songs meant to them. It was not a responsibility the songwriter had foreseen. Sometimes I feel like I dont have the right thing to say. Just because I talk about these things doesnt mean Ive conquered them all or have this broad range of understanding of how and what to do. But I try hard to relate to people and talk about things, Harper says. But in the same way I do, some people just want to talk, they dont need an answer or a solution. They just want to tell someone. For me its really nice to be reciprocated: I asked them to listen to me, and now theyre doing the same.

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Harper has come a long way from Geraldton, the regional city 400 kilometres north of Perth, where he grew up listening to Wilcos Yankee Hotel Foxtrot on repeat in his stepfathers car and was in a high school band with Lama before they headed to Perth and formed Spacey Jane at university in 2016. His latest addition is a chunky silver chain, a recent purchase during a stay in Los Angeles that whacks his chin when he runs onstage. Its the kind of purchase he was too scared to make until recently, lest the band fall over. Spacey Jane at the Enmore Theatre, Sydney, last year. Credit:Charlie Hardy Caleb really believes in people. Hes very encouraging and has faith. And hell always have your back, Peppa Lane says. And hes a really good decision maker and always has his eye on a vision. Its very easy to trust his leadership. The 22-year-old bassist joined in 2019, replacing Amelia Murray who departed on good terms to focus on her medical degree (shes now doing her first year in Western Australias rural hospital system). A one in a million addition according to Harper, Lane was then in her first year of university, lamenting on her phone call home to her parents each week that she hadnt yet joined a band. Offered a share of Spacey Janes then going gig rate, $48 and 12 cans of beer, she happily accepted. When I first joined the band I was overwhelmed by giving up other stuff in my life. But its just fun to keep growing. A lot of people in the world are successful. We havent made it more than anyone else, Lane says. A good band has to be creative and expressive and meet your full musical potential. I think weve still got plenty to uncover. As self-honest as he is, Harper also has a keen sense of humour. He jokes about not having enough Instagram followers to get free clothes (which he would very much like to) and slips in self-deprecating asides. Thats also helped him look anew at what Spacey Jane might be. Part of his Los Angeles trip was to try songwriting with other musicians, with a view to how that might help Spacey Jane. Were always looking to expand and evolve and bring in as many positive influences and opinions to this thing as possible, without giving away our sense of agency, Harper says. Prior to the last six months I felt very possessive and vulnerable, but I want it to be a fun, collaborative thing, not a gut-wrenching introspective process.

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Federal Science Minister Ed Husic says lifting investment in the sector to meet Labors policy of near 3 per cent of GDP will be hampered by the focus on budget repair but remains a priority for the government.

Between government and the private sector, Australia spends about 1.8 per cent of gross domestic product on research and development, less than in the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Iceland. Among advanced economies, the average is 2.6 per cent. Israel spends 5.44 per cent.

Science Minister Ed Husic says a a long-term vision is needed on research funding. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The governments national policy platform commits to getting investment closer to 3 per cent of GDP  about $60 billion  after 14 years of shrinking research funding pushed the sector into crisis.

We do, relative to other nations, have a low level of research investment relative to GDP, Husic told The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. We have to develop a game plan to lift investment levels, both public and private.
Someone you are in relationship with ... clearly was aware about the various processes associated with the advertising and the nature of this position, she said. The inquiry heard Lugsdin was copied into an email thread on December 9 about advertising the trade job, which was eight days before the public advertisement. Barilaro insisted he was successful in securing the role through merit but conceded parts of the process have since proven to be problematic. It hasnt been as clean as it should have been and Im the victim out of that, not the perpetrator, he said. He also said he wished he never applied for the trade commissioner role after the personal hell he has endured in the seven weeks since his appointment and subsequent withdrawal from the role.

If I knew what I know now, I wish I never had applied, he said on Monday. If I knew what I know now, I wouldnt have walked into this shitshow ... because the trauma Ive gone through over the last six, seven weeks has been significant. Barilaro confirmed he had contact with Premier Dominic Perrottet, then-trade minister Stuart Ayres and Treasurer Matt Kean before he applied for the lucrative New York role, but that no concerns were ever raised. [Kean] would have told me bluntly if he thought it was going to be an issue, for sure. And he never did, Barilaro said, adding that Kean was supportive. Barilaro also maintained his push to have trade appointments made by ministers, not the public service, was unrelated to his post-politics plans.

A key point of contention in the drawn-out job saga that has plagued the NSW government has been an urgent submission which Barilaro took to cabinet in September last year to change the commissioner roles from public service decisions to ministerial appointments. While the transition ultimately never occurred, it had the support of his cabinet colleagues. Barilaro on Monday rejected any suggestion the cabinet submission was designed to benefit him. The inquiry heard Barilaro lodged the cabinet submission on September 16, less than a week after giving private evidence to the anti-corruption commission about then-premier Gladys Berejiklian. On September 24, Barilaro told the Federal Court in a defamation trial that he had decided to resign from politics, before then formally taking the submission to cabinet on September 27.

Berejiklian resigned on October 1 and Barilaro quit three days later. Labors Daniel Mookhey said: It does look like that that cabinet submission was being put forward urgently because you knew that at some point [Berejiklian] was likely to have to resign. Barilaro rejected Labors suggestion that he knew about Berejiklians resignation in advance. Department secretary Amy Brown gives evidence for the third time. Credit:Kate Geraghty I will absolutely refute that disgusting slur and accusation. Youre making me out to be corrupt, Barilaro said.

Mookhey said: If were to believe your version of events, Mr Barilaro, we have to basically conclude that youre one of the luckiest men in NSW politics. Barilaro disagreed, suggesting he was the unluckiest man in NSW politics ... because of those series of events. Barilaro also revealed he contacted Brown, the Investment NSW boss, to recommend former state Labor leader Jodi McKay and former Liberal minister Pru Goward be permitted to belatedly apply for trade commissioner roles. The pair were interviewed for roles but were not successful. Barilaro launched a fierce defence of his right as a private citizen to apply for the US trade role, despite being the minister responsible for the positions when he was still in cabinet. He maintained he was appointed by apolitical public service personnel, and denied he had an advantage over others, with former NSW Liberal premier Barry OFarrell and former federal Liberal senator Arthur Sinodinos among his referees. Ayres was also an informal referee for his application.

Loading The trade job scandal has engulfed the Perrottet government and resulted in the forced resignation of Ayres from cabinet over concerns about his role in the saga. He has denied any wrongdoing. Barilaro said interactions between Ayres and Brown, revealed through the inquiry, had surprised him as much as it surprised anybody else. However, he said he genuinely believed Ayres had done nothing to help him secure the role. Kean is expected to be endorsed as deputy Liberal leader at a party room meeting on Tuesday after Transport Minister David Elliott said he would not contest the position.
NAPA, Calif.  Vibratex, the sole North American importer of the Magic Wand brand, on Tuesday announced that its Pleasure as Art commissioned piece is currently on display at the Erotic Heritage Museum in Las Vegas.

The brands art piece has drawn wide praise from industry insiders following its appearance at both Altitude and ANME trade shows this year. As a constant inspiration for smiles and selfies at the Magic Wand booth, the sculpture makes use of 100 decommissioned wands and features a detailed, original painting.

Vibratex commissioned Miami-based artist Dafne Blade to create the massive sculpture. The resultwhich Mashable referred to as not only stunning, but evocative of Game of Thronesnow appears as part of the Erotic Heritage Museums Sex in Space exhibit. The museum, located at 3275 South Sammy Davis Jr. Drive in Las Vegas, will house the sculpture now through October 2022.

Additionally, the Erotic Heritage Museum will be hosting a reception to celebrate the piece on September 3, 2022 at 6 p.m. Artist Blade will be presenting their story, including the inspiration for and development of the piece. This additional layer of excitement to what promises to be a significant, cerebral, and sexy event. Event details are forthcoming.

We couldnt be more proud to bring this amazing work of art to the Erotic Heritage Museum, explained Ken Herskovitz, Vibratex CEO. Its been an absolute pleasure to watch people interact with the piece, and were certain museum guests and event attendees will fall in love with Dafnes creation.

The Harry Moheny Erotic Heritage Museum opened in 2014 as a partnership between Reverand Ted McIllvenna and pornographer Harry Mohney. Today, the museum stands as an assemblage of some of the most important sexual artifacts, scientific explorations, and interactive exhibitions in the world and is dedicated to preserving freedom of sexual expression and education through the preservation of global erotic heritage.

For more information, visit eroticmuseumvegas.com.

For all Vibratex and Magic Wand sales questions and inquiries, contact Eddie Romero, director of business development, via [email protected].

To learn more about Magic Wand, visit truemagicwand.com. Join Magic Wand on Instagram at @truemagicwand.
Why did Nancy Pelosi go to Taiwan last week? For the same reason that Xi Jinping responded with a tantrum of historical proportions.

Politics. Not geopolitics. Domestic politics. The Prussian strategist Carl von Clausewitz famously held that war is politics by other means. So it pays to heed the politics if you wish to understand the war.

Illustration by Dionne Gain Credit:Fairfax Media

Pelosi has a long history of defending Taiwans democracy, but she has a short history ahead of her as Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Unless something dramatic happens, that is. She is contesting her seat at the US Congressional midterm elections in three months. For a 19th term. She shouldnt have any trouble winning her seat. But shes also hoping to be re-elected as the leader of the Democrats in the House of Representatives. And, if the party can hold enough seats, she could return as Speaker. For a fifth term. At 82 years of age, presumably itd be her last.
Supporters of the Biden administration approach note that the fact the US was able to track and kill al-Zawahri is evidence of its capabilities to target threats in Afghanistan from abroad. Critics say the fact al-Zawahri was living in Kabul, under the apparent protection of the Taliban, suggests theres a resurgence of extremist groups that America is ill-equipped to counter. Loading The shift in priorities is supported by many former intelligence officers and lawmakers from both parties who say its overdue. That includes people who served in Afghanistan and other missions against al-Qaida and other terrorist groups. Representative Jason Crow, a former army ranger who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, said he believed the US had been overly focused on counter-terrorism over the past several years. A far greater existential threat is Russia and China, said Crow, a Colorado Democrat who serves on the House intelligence and armed services committees. Terrorist groups, he said, will not destroy the American way of life ... the way China can.

CIA spokesperson Tammy Thorp noted that terrorism remains a very real challenge. Even as crises such as Russias invasion of Ukraine and strategic challenges such as that posed by the Peoples Republic of China demand our attention, CIA will continue to aggressively track terrorist threats globally and work with partners to counter them, Thorp said. Taliban fighters guard at the site of an explosion in Kabul, Afghanistan in June. Credit:AP Congress has pushed the CIA and other intelligence agencies to make China a top priority, according to several people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive intelligence matters. Pushing resources towards China has required cuts elsewhere, including in counter-terrorism. Specific figures were unavailable because intelligence budgets are classified. In particular, lawmakers want more information about Chinas development in advanced technologies. Under President Xi Jinping, China has committed trillions of dollars in investment on quantum science, artificial intelligence and other technologies that are likely to disrupt how future wars are fought and economies are structured.

As part of the shift, congressional committees are trying to better track how intelligence agencies spend their funding on China, seeking more detail about how specific programs contribute to that mission, one person familiar with the matter said. We are late, but its good that were finally changing our focus into that region, said representative Chris Stewart, a Utah Republican who serves on the House intelligence committee. That means in people, in resources, in military assets, and in diplomacy. US President Joe Biden: resolute on his decision to pull troops out of Afghanistan. Credit:AP The CIA last year announced it would create two new mission centres  one on China, one on emerging technologies  to centralise and improve intelligence collection on those issues. The CIA is also trying to recruit more Chinese speakers and reduce wait times on security clearances to hire new people faster. Inside the agency, many officers are learning Chinese and moving into new roles focused on China, though not all of those jobs require language training, people familiar with the matter said.

Officials note that intelligence officers are trained to adapt to new challenges and that many were moved more quickly into counter-terrorism roles after the attacks of September 11, 2001. Advances from counter-terrorism work  including better use of data and different sources of intelligence to build networks and identify targets  were also useful in countering Russia and China, former officers said. Loading Its the analytics and targeting machine that has become extraordinary, said Douglas Wise, a former CIA senior officer who was deputy chief of operations at the counter-terrorism centre. The CIAs Counterterrorism Centre, renamed the Counterterrorism Mission Centre in a 2015 reorganisation, remains a point of pride for many people who credit its work for keeping Americans safe from terrorism after September 11. CIA officers landed in Afghanistan on September 26, 2001, and were part of operations to displace the Taliban and find and kill leaders of al-Qaida including Osama bin Laden.

And 13 years after a double agent tricked officers pursuing al-Zawahri and blew himself up, killing seven agency employees, the CIA killed him in a strike with no reported civilian casualties. The CIA was also involved in some of the darkest moments of the fight against terrorism. It operated secret black site jails to hold terrorism suspects, some wrongly, and was found by a Senate investigation to have used interrogation methods that amounted to torture. Elite Afghan special operations units trained by the CIA were also accused of killing civilians and violating international law. There has long been a debate over whether counter-terrorism pulled intelligence agencies too far away from traditional spying and whether some of the CIAs work in targeting terrorists should instead be done by special forces under the military. Marc Polymeropoulos, a retired CIA operations officer and former base chief in Afghanistan, said he supported a greater focus on China and Russia but added: Theres no reason to diminish what we had to do. This notion that somehow all the [counter-terrorism] work we did, somehow that was wrong, that we took our eye of the ball  just remember on September 12 what everyone was feeling.
Propelled by the latest bout of COVID claustrophobia, we decided to spend a week this summer on the California coast. A days drive, no air travel; a rental within earshot of the surf. At times, the fog rolled in unexpectedly and shrouded the pine-oak woods around us in mystery, and even though wed come from an unusually wet period in Arizona, my skin and lips felt different in the presence of all that airborne moisture.

One afternoon, we took a drive up to Big Sur, where Highway 1 maintains a precarious toehold on the almost comically steep edge of North America. Wed brought sandwiches and decided to stop for dinner at a spectacular hidden beach that had been chewed out of the surrounding bluffs like a bite from a cookie. About ten flights of stairs down, we found a flat expanse of fine white sand strewn with the wrack of washed-up kelp.

The overcast hung low and wisps of fog rolled in. It wasnt beach weather to usif that term means shorts and sandals and plunging into the not-too-cold surfbut that didnt stop the group of locals sitting near us. Theyd come with their dogs, surfboards, coolers and long fishing rods. The older folks and some kids hung out on the beach, reading, talking and playing spikeball. A wet-suited gaggle of teens played in the water on surfboards. Whether they were adults or kids, they seemed of the place to me. They were the sort of people who might know when the fog could be expected to roll in or out, how to cast a saltwater line, how to read the incoming swell and know where to be on a surfboard at the right moment. As a short-time visitor, all this knowledge seemed occult to mea desirable mystery.

It was the same reaction I often have to travelingat least when I travel to places I like. I am uninterested in tourism: the sorts of made-to-order, readily Instagrammable experiences that have become so prevalent and so lucrative in many much-visited placesincluding Flagstaff and environs. I am not a big fan of lounging on a beach reading novels or participating in any other stereotyped vacation leisure activity which has little to do with the place itself. So, Im often left fascinated by the locals and how they experience the place, often wondering what its like to be them, to be in sync with the place rather than be a rank outsider, and when the place is as compelling as a craggy Big Sur beach, I instantly want to be one of those locals.

Its irrational, I know, because I already live as a local in a beautiful place where I have gotten to know many of the rhythms of climate and weather, plant life and societal seasons. Its a place I chose for many reasons, and each year I can feel the dividends of the time Ive invested here growing. Theyre paid in knowing the neighborshuman and otherwiseand in learning the weather patterns, albeit always incompletely. Theyre paid in knowing when to plant and harvest garlic or pumpkins and in the hot sauce I make from my pepper plants. Theyre paid in knowing the geography and the ecological patterns, in knowing that this pivot point in the summer, as the rufous hummingbirds are migrating in, is right about the time that the noisy summer orioles migrate out to the south.

Im aware that my own localism cant compare in depth to that of people like my neighbor who grew up in a home passed down through generations, or that of others whose people have lived here for many decades, or that of indigenous peoples who have been here for uncounted generations. Localism is a continuum, and if its in part a social practice, a getting-to-know people and peoples and the practices of place, it is also a personal matter that measures how much the place has become both accustomed and comfortable.

At a time when travel is so easy, I suspect Im not alone in my fascination with new localisms in new places because localism is above all authentica genuine relationship with place.

It would be nice to suppose that it is a one-way streetthat merely learning about a place is enough, that there is an ideal endpoint where one knows just about everything worth knowing about a placebut increasingly, we know that this ideal can no longer prevail. Because we know that our place, and every place, is changing fast, and as it does what it means to be local has to change to keep pace. In Flagstaff, being local increasingly means developing a precise, street-by-street or even yard-by-yard understanding of microhydrology and how the flow of water and mud changes with differing amounts of rainfall up on the mountain and the deposition of flow-changing sediment down below. Our learning about place has taken on a new urgency.

It is of course a measure of my naivete that I could, during our beach dinner, hold the illusion that the rugged chunk of California coast I saw might not be subject to such fast and undesirable change. When the surfboarding teens emerged from the ocean, we saw that a couple of them were holding stringers of freshly caught fish. We watched as they gathered around an upside-down surfboard on which they proceeded to gut their catcha process that seemed brand new and exciting to the younger kids.

This too seemed timeless: the local youth catching and prepping their dinner from the seaa scene that has likely played out at that place for many hundreds of generations. I suppose I was acknowledging my status as a tourist, an outsider, by asking them what kind of fish they wererockfishbut none of the other questions that my journalists mind could easily conjure came to me. Questions about how the place was changing or about how the young anglers viewed their dangerous future. It was vacation for us, and a successful harvest for them. For this evening, those other questions could wait.
Flagstaff High School student Amelia Stout will be spending her junior year in Germany as part of the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange program (CBYX).

Its coming up quicker than I thought it was going to be, she said. Im definitely very excited, but Im nervous for it.

She will spend the next 10 months in Germany, living with a host family and attending school. The program also includes language and culture training, meetings with German and American government officials and a variety of excursions throughout the country.

Stout is one of 250 high schoolers across the United States to be awarded the CBYX scholarship for the 2022-2023 school year. The scholars will be heading to Hedersleben in Germany next week for a month of language camp, where they will get to know the other participants and Germanys language and culture.

After, they will be taking train rides to places across the country where their host families are based and attend high school primarily in German.

Stout said she thinks the experience will be awesome.

Im excited to finish learning the language and make friends. Im more in this for the social aspect of it than anything else, she said. She also said she hopes to learn more about German culture and traditions.

Her nerves come mostly from the newness of the experience. While she has been to a number of places in the United States, this will be Stouts first time leaving the country.

Im worried because I've never really been apart from my family, especially not for that long, she said. So I'm just leaving all my family and friends behind and starting a new beginning where I've never been or I don't know people.

Stout described the application process as rigorous, with about five essay questions and several interviews. She said she wanted to attend the program, since shed been learning German for about two years.

I was already learning the language and I was thinking I want to go to Germany for college or maybe something like that, she said. She saw a program flier in the school hallway and decided to apply.

The program was started in 1983 and has included more than 27,000 students so far. It is jointly funded by the U.S. Congress and German Bundestag and was created to foster mutual understanding and strengthen ties between Germany and the U.S. through citizen diplomacy, according to a press release. It also includes German students, who travel to live and study in the U.S.

I just think this is a really awesome program and I really admire the fact that theyre working so hard to get German students in the U.S. and American students in Germany, Stout said. I just think it's awesome how theyre forming this bond between everyone.

More information about CBYX can be found at exchanges.state.gov/cbyx.
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PREVIOUS OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS

 Nowhere Coffee Co. to open second location at 318 Main Street in Emmaus, sharing space with South Mountain Cycle

 Jimmys Barbershop in Allentown has moved to 822 N. 19th Street

 Air Products and Chemicals Inc.'s chosen warehouse developer, Prologis Inc., will have to wait until July 13 for a final decision by Upper Macungie Township's zoning hearing board on 2.61 million square feet of warehouses.

 Chubby's of Southside Easton has added Krispy Krunchy Chicken to its offerings and name.

 Curaleaf Holdings Inc., which operates in the U.S. and Europe, will open a medical-marijuana dispensary at 1801 Airport Road, Hanover Township.

 Habitat for Humanity, which has "ReStores" that sell new and lightly used furniture, has leased 30,000 square feet at the South Mall.
COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  The leaders of Estonia and Finland want fellow European countries to stop issuing tourist visas to Russian citizens, saying they should not be able to take vacations in Europe while the government of Russia carries out a war in Ukraine.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas wrote Tuesday on Twitter that visiting Europe is a privilege, not a human right and that it is time to end tourism from Russia now.

A day earlier, her counterpart in Finland, Sanna Marin, told Finnish broadcaster YLE that it is not right that while Russia is waging an aggressive, brutal war of aggression in Europe, Russians can live a normal life, travel in Europe, be tourists."

Estonia and Finland both border Russia and are members of the European Union, which banned air travel from Russia after it invaded Ukraine. But Russians can still travel by land to both countries and apparently are then taking flights to other European destinations.

YLE reported last week that Russian companies have started offering car trips from St. Petersburg to the airports of Helsinki and Lappeenranta in Finland, which have direct connections to several places in Europe. Russias second-largest city is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) from the Finnish capital.

Visas issued by Finland are valid across most of Europe's travel zone, known as the Schengen area which is made up of 26 countries: 22 EU nations plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Normally, people and goods move freely between these countries without border checks. Nineteen other countries outside this travel area allow in foreigners using a Schengen visa.

Some EU countries no longer issue visas to Russians, including Latvia, which made that decision this month because of the war.

Tourist visas for Russians are expected be discussed at an informal meeting of EU foreign ministers on Aug. 31, YLE reported.

I would believe that in future European Council meetings, this issue will come up even more strongly. My personal position is that tourism should be restricted, Marin told the Finnish broadcaster.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday expressed hope that common sense will eventually prevail in European countries that are calling to bar Russians from traveling to the EU.

Peskov said proposals for such a ban are usually coming from countries Moscow has already deemed hostile and many of those countries in their hostility sink into oblivion.

I think that over time, common sense will somehow manifest itself, and those who made such statements will come to their senses, Peskov said.

Putins close associate and deputy head of Russias Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, dismissed Kallas statement Tuesday in a social media post, adding ominously: I just want to remind her of another saying: The fact that you are free is not your merit, but our flaw.'

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also aired a proposal against Russian tourism in an interview with The Washington Post published Tuesday. He said the most important sanctions are to close the borders for Russian travelers, because the Russians are taking away someone elses land.

Russians should live in their own world until they change their philosophy, Zelenskyy said, adding that such restrictions should apply to all Russians, even those who left the country and oppose the war.

It's contrasts with what Zelenskyy said in March, a month after Moscow sent troops into Ukraine, when he urged Russians to leave the country to avoid funding the war with their taxes.

Asked about Zelenskyys remarks in The Washington Post, Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, called them a statement ... that speaks for itself, which Moscow views extremely negatively.

Follow APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine.
WEST READING, Pa.  Authorities are conducting a criminal investigation after a fire at the Scottish Rite Cathedral in West Reading on Tuesday.

The fire broke out at the cathedral on South Seventh Avenue around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, said West Reading Mayor Samantha Kaag.

Janssen Herb, a Pennsylvania State Police fire marshal, told 69 News that he is assisting with the investigation at the cathedral. Herb said he could not confirm any other details of the investigation.

Kaag said the fire caused extensive damage, but it was limited to a single room.

No one was inside at the time, and there were no injuries, Kaag said.
The bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act is officially law.

"Today is a day for builders. Today America is delivering," President Joe Biden said at the bill's signing Tuesday morning.

Currently, the U.S. only makes 12% of the world's semi-conductors, with most of it being outsourced to China in recent decades. This bill attempts to gain some lost ground.

Roughly $280 billion is designed to increase domestic chip manufacturing as well as our competitiveness against China.

It invests more than $50 billion in manufacturing, research and development, and workforce training: $39 billion to expand and modernize domestic production and around $11 billion for research and development.

It authorizes roughly $200 billion in science and technology research funding for coming years and creates regional innovation hubs. There's also a 25% tax credit for companies that invest in semiconductor manufacturing equipment or the construction of manufacturing facilities. Businesses that receive funds are prohibited from expanding in China for 10 years.

"This is something we're doing that is absolutely the right thing for the consumer, the right thing for the country and the right thing for business," said David Heard, the CEO of Infinera, a broadband technology company with offices in the Lehigh Valley and San Jose, California. It's one of the only companies building fiber optic semiconductors in the U.S.

"For us being a smaller company and not one that flows off everybody's tongue like Intel, one that really needs this investment to really accelerate our ability to grow R & D."

Intel already said it plans to expand in light of the bill, as did Micron.

Heard says it's something Infinera is considering as well: "We have [the plans] queued up. We're ready to go. We've been aggressively putting together, if this happens, how can we combine that with our own investment?"

He hopes the funds don't just go to the largest businesses.

"I'll be more confident when I start to see the specific allocation of those dollars," Heard said.

The bill is not paid for, and does have some unrelated measures like reauthorizing the space program and protecting Supreme Court justices and their families after recent threats, and some have criticized it as a handout to an already wealthy industry.
Business for the Japanese Olympus Corporation, which has headquarters in Center Valley, Pa. for its Olympus Corporation of America, continues to roar back from the global recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Revenue, operating profit, and net profit all increased substantially in the companys first quarter of fiscal 2023 compared to the same quarter in fiscal 2022.

The company does not report results for its American subsidiary but instead reports results for its four major business segments  Endoscopic Solutions, Therapeutic Solutions, Scientific Solutions, and Other.

The business view for Olympus from Tokyo was pretty much like the American business view from Washington. The global economy, Olympus observed, saw signs of recovery as the challenging conditions created by the global spread of COVID-19 gradually eased as vaccinations progressed.

Nevertheless, according to Olympus, impacts were felt from the lockdown in Shanghai and the war in Ukraine along with rising raw material prices, supply chain constraints, and shortages of semiconductors and other components.

The Japanese economy saw a recovery, as the challenging conditions caused by COVID-19 were easing, but impacts were felt from the same factors affecting the global economy.

Under such circumstances, the Olympus Group claims it has been carrying out activities toward sustainable growth under its business transformation plan, Transform Olympus, announced in January 2019, which aims to develop itself as a truly global med-tech company. Based on this corporate strategy, Olympus said it is allocating management resources to the medical field, mainly in Endoscopic Solutions Business and Therapeutic Solutions Business.

As part of these efforts to achieve sustainable growth and increased profitability in the Scientific Solutions Business, on April 1, 2022, Olympus implemented a company split to transfer Olympus Corporations Scientific Solutions Business to Evident Corporation, a newly established wholly owned subsidiary.

Corporate Operating results

In the first fiscal quarter, Olympus revenue increased by 11.8% year on year. This increase was due to an increase in revenue in the Endoscopic Solutions Business and Therapeutic Solutions Business despite a decrease in revenue in the Scientific Solutions Business and other businesses.

Cost of sales increased by 12.7% year on year and the cost-to-sales ratio deteriorated 0.3 percentage points year on year to 35.9% due to surging procurement costs of raw materials such as semiconductor materials.

Reflecting these factors, the company stated, operating profit increased by 47.7% year on year and profit attributable to owners of parent, or net profit, grew 33%.

Olympus sees a bright future. For the full fiscal year 2023, Olympus forecasts revenue to increase 17.3%, operating profit to increase 50.1% and net profit to increase 48.6%.

Endoscopic Solutions Business

Consolidated revenue in the Endoscopic Solutions Business increased 16.8% year on year, while operating profit increased 9.6% year on year.

The company said gastrointestinal endoscopes showed positive year-on-year growth in all regions, other than China, where there were restrictions on movement due to COVID-19, and a lockdown in Shanghai, causing supply chain disruptions and impacting capital investment and case numbers in hospitals. On the bright side, Olympus reported sales in Europe and North America rose.

By product, sales of the gastrointestinal endoscopic system EVIS X1 series continued strong, while demand for the prior-generation general purpose upper gastrointestinal videoscopes and colorectal videoscopes was also firm. The ratio of the EVIS X1 series to total sales also gradually increased.

Olympus said the surgical endoscopes field showed positive year-on-year growth in all regions, other than China. Sales increased in Europe and North America, where sales of the surgical endoscopy system VISERA ELITE II were strong.

In the medical services field, all regions showed positive year-on-year growth due partly to stable sales of existing service contracts including maintenance services and an increase in new contracts.

The increase in operating profit in the Endoscopic Solutions Business, Olympus said, was mainly due to the effect of the absence of the previous years impairment loss and other expenses for an equity investment, despite the cost-to-sales ratio deteriorating due to surging procurement costs of raw materials such as semiconductor materials, an increase in expenses associated with sales growth including sales expansion of EVIS X1, and outsourcing expenses related to strengthening business operations.

Therapeutic Solutions Business

Consolidated revenue in the Therapeutic Solutions Business increased 13.7% year on year, while operating profit was down 5.1% year on year.

In the GI-endotherapy field, Olympus said all regions and product groups saw positive growth, in particular, sales in North America and Europe, where the number of procedures has been increasing. In addition, sales increased for product groups for ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography), which are used in endoscopic diagnoses and treatment of pancreatic duct, bile duct, etc.; the sampling of biopsy forceps, etc., which are used for collecting tissue for screening examinations; and product groups for ESD (Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection) and EMR (Endoscopic Mucosal Resection), which are used in lesion resection.

The urology field performed well mainly in North America and Europe, with sales being expanded for resection electrodes for BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) and use of the lithotripsy machine for kidney stones SOLTIVE SuperPulsed Laser System. Gynecology products, which were grouped in other therapeutic areas in the Therapeutic Solutions Business, have been included in urology in the Therapeutic Solutions Business for the fiscal year ending March 2023.

According to Olympus, the respiratory field saw positive growth, primarily in North America and Europe. Sales of the devices mainly used for EBUS-TBNA (Endobronchial Ultrasound-guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration) were positive.

In other therapeutic areas, sales were favorable mainly in energy devices, in particular, sales of THUNDERBEAT.

Despite recording increased revenue during the period, operating profit declined due to the decreasing effect of the absence of the previous years recording of a gain on the step acquisition of Medi-Tate Ltd. along with increased expenses such as promotion expenses.

Scientific Solutions Business

In the Scientific Solutions Business consolidated revenue decreased 11.7% year on year, while an operating loss was reported compared with an operating profit in the same period of the previous fiscal year.

In the life science field, while budget execution at research centers and universities progressed smoothly, the company said revenue decreased year on year due to delayed shipments to customers from shortages of parts, such as semiconductors and restrictions on movement implemented in China due to COVID-19, including the resulting supply chain disruptions accompanying a lockdown in Shanghai.

In the industrial field, despite the continuing trend of improvement in capital investment by customers, and strong sales in industrial endoscopes, revenue decreased year on year due to delayed shipments to customers from shortages of parts such as semiconductors and the restrictions imposed by China.

Operating profit declined in the Scientific Solutions Business due to decreased revenue and increased expenses centered on personnel expenses as the company strengthened its corporate functions due to the company split.

Others

In other businesses, the Olympus Group conducts R&D and exploratory activities for new businesses. It engages in the developing, manufacturing, and selling of biomedical materials, such as synthetic bone filler, and orthopedic equipment.

Consolidated revenue in other businesses decreased 3.8% year on year, while operating loss decreased from the same period of the previous fiscal year. Revenue decreased due to the end of the sales of medical devices to the animal market, despite sales of FH ORTHO SAS increasing in conjunction with the weakening impact from COVID-19.

Operating profit in other businesses improved due to the progressing streamlining of costs despite decreased revenue.

Olympus Corporation of the Americas (OCA)  a wholly owned subsidiary of Olympus Corporation in Tokyo, Japan  was established in 1968 in Lake Success, New York. It is now headquartered in Center Valley with more than 5,000 employees in locations throughout North and South America.
N. WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. - One person has been flown to the hospital after an incident in Lehigh County Tuesday.

Police were called out to a home on Excelsior Road in North Whitehall Township just after 1:30 p.m.

They haven't specified the nature of the incident, but we're told one person was flown to Lehigh Valley Hospital.

The extent of injuries is not clear.
SALISBURY TWP., Pa. - A road is closed after a large sinkhole started forming in Salisbury Township, Lehigh County Tuesday afternoon.

The sinkhole formed in the 800 block of East Wayne Avenue, according to a Facebook post from township police.

Police posted a video of water shooting into the air after the sinkhole formed.

The police and fire departments responded to the scene.

East Wayne Avenue at South Potomac Street is closed. Township police are advising people to avoid the area.
(The Center Square)  Rare earth elements can be crucial for national security and economic production  and producing them may also provide an environmental boom in certain cases.

A House Republican Policy Committee hearing on Pennsylvanias Emerging Critical Mineral and Rare Earth Element Industry focused on Americas reliance on foreign countries for producing and processing these elements for industrial use.

The only way to break this foreign reliance is to build a robust, domestic supply chain, said Sarma Pisupati, a professor of energy and mineral engineering at Penn State University.

Seventeen elements are considered rare earth elements, Pisupati noted, and are defined by their chemical behavior. Critical elements are defined by the U.S. Geological Survey and are considered important for economic development and the industrial demand for them. The Department of the Interior considers about 50 elements as critical.

Those elements matter because they are critical for industrial supply chains (such as for electric vehicles) and some national security uses. The global leader for those elements and critical minerals, however, is China.

China has been the dominant supplier of REEs since 1988, providing 95% of the global REE market in 2011, according to the National Energy Technology Laboratory.

That domination continues.

The U.S. now imports 80% of its REE demand directly from China, with portions of the remainder indirectly sourced from China through other countries, the NETL noted. For 31 of the 35 CMs, the U.S. imports more than half of its annual consumption. The U.S. has no domestic production for 14 CMs and is completely dependent on imports to supply its demand.

Pennsylvania has an opportunity to lessen that reliance, however, while cleaning up some waterways: recovering critical elements from abandoned mine drainage.

We need to explore secondary resources, including industry byproducts such as coal mining waste from abandoned coal mines, refuse piles, fly ash from coal-burning power plants, Pisupati said. Pennsylvania is rich in these resources. Locked inside this waste are significant quantities of rare earth elements and other critical minerals.

By modifying the existing treatment processes, we can address multiple problems, getting the material we need for national security and remediating long-standing environmental problems at the same time, Pisupati said. If we do it right, we can create jobs and an economic boost for the communities coal has left behind.

Pisupati highlighted cobalt, manganese, and lithium as recoverable in Pennsylvania.

The economic and environmental benefits intrigued state representatives.

To me, it would be a win-win to be able to take this pollution thats basically ruined all of these clean-water streams, all of these trout streams, and to be able to take that horrible mess that was created and transform it into an economic opportunity as well as an environmental clean-up effort, said Rep. Jim Struzzi, R-Indiana.

While federal pilot programs have had promising results for recovering rare earth elements and critical minerals from waste, so far no large-scale facilities have been created.

Issues on the industrial level that could cause problems are ownership issues, how to deal with the waste produced after retrieving the elements, and the financial risk of investing in new technologies.

It sounds like we need to use some regulatory common sense here, said Rep. Torren Ecker, R-Abbottstown. The technology would actually clean up some of these areas, and if a company has the interest in doing that, it sounds like a win-win to me.
Playing at the Apollo Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue from 13 August until 4 September only  don't miss the highly anticipated return of this ground-breaking show. To celebrate, we asked Jack Holden to give us five reasons to book your tickets now...





1. The Music

Everyone loves an 'eighties banger' - and Cruise has got more dance classics than you can shake a stick at. Composer, musical performer, and downright genius John Elliott has created a thumping electronic soundtrack with samples and riffs taken from from hits like "I Will Survive", "Always on my Mind", "Smalltown Boy", "(Highway to the) Danger Zone" and many, many more. I always wanted the show to be filled with music, and the rich sonic landscape of Cruise will take you back in time, to a dirty, dingy, dancey Soho of the 1980s.





2. The Lights

Prepare to be dazzled by Prema Mehta's jaw-dropping lighting design. With so many Soho pubs, clubs and bars featuring in Cruise, light plays an important role: setting the scene and creating a mood. As the story crescendoes, and as the music blares, the lights take you on a psychedelic, transcendental flight through one of the biggest nights out ever you'll ever have. Lighting is one of those things that's really hard to imagine when you're writing and rehearsing a play, so it's extremely exciting when you move into the theatre, see Nik Corrall's sumptuous design illuminated, and feel the show being elevated to a whole new level.

Jack Holden in Cruise

 Pamela Raith Photography





3. The Moves

Between Bronagh Lagan's seamless direction and Sarah Golding's exhilarating movement direction, my body somehow spins around the stage for 90 minutes, morphing into 30 different characters, and shedding about a gallon of sweat in the process. It might sound implausible that we conjure up 1980s Soho in all its seediness, sauciness and vibrancy with just one actor and one musician - but trust me; once you get into it, the show is an urgent, blistering musical odyssey, and a life-affirming emotional rollercoaster.

Jack Holden in Cruise

 Pamela Raith Photography





4. The Story

Cruise is based on a true story I heard when I volunteered for Switchboard, the LGBTQ helpline. It's a story set in the AIDS crisis of the 1980s. It's about prejudice, fear, pain and loss. But it's also about love, community, defiance and liberation. Cruise is a celebration of queer culture, a kaleidoscopic musical and spoken word tribute to the veterans of the AIDS crisis, which will make you laugh, make you cry, and which inspires us all to live every day as if it's our last.

Watch an exclusive performance from Cruise ahead of its first performance:





5. The Olivier Award Nomination!

Look, we were nominated for Best New Play at the 2022 Olivier Awards. So, the show must be pretty good, right?!





Playing at the Apollo Theatre in the West End until 4 September only  don't miss out and save up to 47%* with tickets from just 16.80 for a limited time only!

*Valid on all performances except Wed 17 August 7pm, Sat 20 August 8pm, Sat 27 August 8pm and Fri 2 September 8pm. Subject to availability.
A Mandan man under federal pretrial services supervision as he awaits trial in U.S. District Court on drug charges now faces drug conspiracy charges at the state level following an investigation by local authorities.

Deshawn Taylor, 26, was arrested Sunday, according to an affidavit. He allegedly backed into an unmarked Bismarck Police Department patrol vehicle and fled Friday after undercover police arranged to buy drugs from him in a south Bismarck retail parking lot.

Detectives communicated with Taylor, who was using a Facebook profile under another name, and identified him by the profile photo, the affidavit states.

A federal grand jury in October indicted Taylor on five counts including drug conspiracy, possession with intent to deliver drugs, and delivery of drugs, court records show. A federal judge on June 10 granted Taylors request for release from custody while he awaits trial.

Taylor and a co-defendant in the federal case, Kasheena Dunbar, were to stand trial March 29. A judge in the case granted a continuance about a week earlier. A new trial date is not listed in court documents.

Taylor was in state custody pending payment of $100,000 cash bail. Court records do not list an attorney for him. The state charges carry a possible 10-year prison term.
Four people were arrested in Adams County on Aug. 1 for their involvement in various drug-related activities.

According to a release from Adams County Sheriff Brent York, the Adams County Sheriffs Office conducted a search warrant in the 3000 block of 10th Lane in the Town of Springville at a mobile property owned by 59-year-old William J. Cartwright.

The property consists of a main mobile home with several campers, recreational vehicles and other vehicles, many of which are home to other individuals, according to the release.

Cartwright, along with 57-year-old Shannon S. Grant, 64-year-old Ruben Hernandez, and 56-year-old Sandra M. Mayfield were all arrested after the department seized different quantities of various narcotics that included methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, psilocybin mushrooms, THC, and various pills, as well as various drug paraphernalia.

A firearm was also confiscated as a result of the warrant, which was executed as a result of a lengthy and ongoing investigation.

All four suspects were charged with the following:

Maintaining a Drug Trafficking Place

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Possession of Methamphetamine

Cartwrights other charges included possession with intent to deliver THC, as well as possession of psilocybin mushrooms and cocaine.

Grant was also charged with possession of THC and narcotic drugs, illegal possession of prescription drugs, eight counts of felony bail jumping, failure to update address as a sex offender, and three counts of manufacture/delivery of methamphetamine.

Hernandez and Mayfield were both charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine, and possession of psilocybin mushrooms. Hernandez also received a possession with intent to deliver THC charge, while Mayfield was charged with manufacture/delivery of methamphetamine.

Assisting agencies to the Adams County Sheriffs Office included: Juneau County Sheriffs Office Special Tactics and Response Team, Central Wisconsin Drug Task Force, Adams County Department of Health and Human Services, and Lifestar EMS.

York said no further information will be released at this time.
A federal judge is allowing North Dakota to intervene in a lawsuit by environmental groups that challenges the government's resumption of oil and gas lease sales on federal lands.

The Biden administration announced in April that it was resuming oil and gas lease sales on federal lands after a pause of more than a year. The Bureau of Land Management ordered a sale in late June offering 23 parcels in eastern Montana and the western North Dakota counties of McKenzie, Mountrail and Williams.

Environmental groups believe the sales are climate-harming; the state maintains the sales are important to North Dakota's economy.

President Joe Biden in January 2021 halted oil and gas lease sales on the nations public lands and waters during his first days in office, and issued an executive order announcing a review of the program to restore balance on Americas public lands and waters to benefit current and future generations.

Oil- and gas-producing states including North Dakota sued to try to force leasing to continue, and scored a victory in June 2021 when a court ordered the government to resume sales. The federal review concluded a few months later, with the U.S. Interior Department recommending the government raise royalty rates.

Several climate and conservation groups are suing over the resumption of oil and gas leasing, including one lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia that challenges approval of lease sales in several states including North Dakota. The groups including the Dakota Resource Council and the Sierra Club maintain that the sales will result in social and environmental harm.

The North Dakota Attorney General's Office in late July filed a motion to intervene in the case. Special Assistant Attorney General Paul Seby wrote that the state seeks "to protect its significant sovereign rights and economic interests."

State officials have argued that North Dakota's situation is unique due to the checkerboard nature of mineral ownership in the state. They say that prohibiting drilling through federal minerals could prevent the development of private minerals and state-owned minerals in the surrounding area. North Dakota also receives a portion of revenue from oil and gas leasing on federal lands.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper on Tuesday granted North Dakota's request, "noting no opposition, and finding good cause shown."
BEIJING, Aug. 8 (Xinhua)  Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, sent a message of condolence on Monday to Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel over explosions at a fuel storage facility in Cuba.

In his message to Diaz-Canel, also first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee, Xi said he was shocked to learn about the fuel farm explosions in Matanzas province in Cuba, which caused serious casualties and property losses.

Xi noted that on behalf of the Chinese government and people and in his own name, he expressed deep condolences for those killed in the explosions and sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and the injured, adding that China is ready to provide assistance to Cuba.

(Source: Xinhua)
Jamestown, one of the country's oldest cities, is situated in the eastern part of the US State of Virginia. In 1607, Jamestown was established and named after King James I of England. For a brief period, Jamestown also served as the capital of the Colony of Virginia from 1616 to 1699. The settlement was abandoned in 1699. At present, Jamestown is considered an archaeological site.

Geography And Climate Of Jamestown

A replica of 16th century frontier fort in Jamestown, Virginia. Editorial credit: Timothy L Barnes / Shutterstock.com

Jamestown is situated in Virginia's James City County. About 4 kilometers southwest of the heart of modern-day Williamsburg, Jamestown is located on the northeastern shores of the James (Powhatan) River. The Jamestown site is bordered on three sides by the James River, Back River, and Sandy Bay. Along with Williamsburg and Yorktown, Jamestown is one of three locations that make up the Historic Triangle of Colonial Virginia, which has two major heritage sites. The Jamestown Settlement, a nearby living history museum, has replicas of a fort from the 1610s and a Powhatan Indian hamlet.

According to the Koppen climate classification, Jamestown experiences a humid subtropical climate that is characterized by warm summers, and very cold, snowy, and windy winters, with fog and rainy days almost all year long. The average yearly temperature is 15C, with July and January recording the highest (27C) and lowest (4C) average temperatures, respectively. On average, Jamestown gets 527.9 mm of precipitation yearly, with July reporting the highest number (61.1mm).

Brief History Of Jamestown

Replica of the Susan Constant, a ship that brought English colonists to Virginia in 1607, is on display at Jamestown, Virginia. Editorial credit: dmvphotos / Shutterstock.com

A charter to create colonies in Virginia was given to the Virginia Company by King James I of England in the April of 1606. The company was a private stock holding firm. The charter identified the Virginia Company of London and the Virginia Company of Plymouth as the company's two branches. In May 1607, about 104 English colonists came to North America to launch the Virginia Company of London's colony at Jamestown. They named the town after their king, James I. It was the country's first permanent English settlement. Jamestown's location was chosen for several factors, all of which satisfied Virginia Company requirements. The location was far inland and surrounded by water on three sides, making it easily defendable from any Spanish attacks. Additionally, the water was deep enough for the English to moor their ships along the coast, and no Native Americans lived on the site.

Attractions In Jamestown

Church Tower

Red brick ruin of original church tower with nave reconstructed in 20th century against blue sky in Jamestown, Virginia. Editorial credit: Claudine Van Massenhove / Shutterstock.com

The only remaining above-ground structure from the era when Jamestown served as Virginia's capital is the brick church tower from the 17th century. The tower, which was built around 1680, has withstood fires, fortification efforts during the American Civil War, and years during which it was abandoned to rot in the dense forests that arose after the colony's capital was transferred to Williamsburg in 1699.

Pocahontas Statue

Pocahontas Statue by William Ordway Partridge was erected in 1922. Editorial credit: Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com

One of the most recognizable sights on Jamestown Island is the Pocahontas statue. Pocahontas, one of the most well-known women in early American history, is credited with aiding the suffering English immigrants in Virginia in the early 1600s. For the 300th anniversary celebrations in 1907, sculptor William Ordway Partridge worked on this statue, but money was tight. The bronze statue wasn't complete until the federal government gave $5,000 in 1913. At the dedication ceremony in June 1922, there were roughly 500 attendees. As so many guests held her hands while posing for pictures, the statue gradually developed a vivid copper tone.

The James Fort Site

Historic Jamestown is the cultural heritage site that served as the location of the 1607 James Fort and the later 17th-century city of Jamestown.

The fort, which was initially constructed in 1607 as a triangular defense, continued to grow until the 1620s. The Jamestown Rediscovery team has uncovered the long-forgotten tapestry of life inside the fort, including the numerous homes, churches, and the location of the early colonial government, after 22 years of exploration.

Jamestown is a must-see for every US history enthusiast. A visit to one of Virginia's most important historical sites can provide a wealth of information and help tourists understand the principles upon which this great nation was built.
Weymouth is a historic city incorporated in 1635 and named after a coastal town in England. It is a suburb of Boston and is located in Norfolk County in the US State of Massachusetts. Residents of Weymouth enjoy an urban-suburban hybrid lifestyle. There are several restaurants, cafes, and parks in Weymouth. The city also served as the birthplace of Abigail Adams, the spouse of President John Adams and mother to President John Quincy Adams. Her house is still there and is accessible to the general public.

Geography And Climate Of Weymouth

The birthplace of Abigail Adams in Weymouth, Massachusetts.

Situated about 18.52 km southeast of Boston, the small city of Weymouth covers a total area of 55.87 sq. km, of which 43.42 sq. km is occupied by land, and 12.45 sq. km is covered by water. Weymouth is bordered by Hingham Bay and Boston Harbor on the north, Quincy, Braintree, and Holbrook on the west, Abington and Rockland on the south, and Hingham on the east.

According to the Koppen climate classification, Weymouth has a humid subtropical climate that is characterized by warm summers and very cold, snowy, and windy winters, with occasionally foggy days all year long. July and January record the highest (23C) and lowest (-1C) average temperatures, respectively. On average, Weymouth gets 536.9 mm of precipitation yearly, with December reporting the highest number (51.9mm). The day duration varies along the year, where the longest day is recorded on June 21 (15 hours, 16 minutes), and the shortest day is recorded on December 21 (9 hours, 5 minutes).

History Of Weymouth

Town Hall in Weymouth, Massachusetts, built in 1928, as a replica of the Old State House, Boston. Image Credit: Marcbela (Marc N. Belanger), via Wikimedia Commons

Weymouth, which was founded as a trading post soon after the Pilgrims arrived in Plymouth, is the second-oldest town in the Commonwealth. In 1622, Weymouth's history was first formally documented. Gorges, a commander in the British Navy, received a grant and transported around 120 men and women to the Wessagusset colony from Weymouth, England. In 1624, Gorges and some of the colonists left for England, but others stayed in the settlement they had given the name "Weymouth." The Reverend William Blaxton (sometimes spelled Blackstone), a preacher in the Gorges expedition, later became the first settler in what is now Boston. Wessagusset was acknowledged as a part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 1630s.

The Population And Economy Of Weymouth

As per the latest US Census, Weymouth has a population of 57,437 residents, where 52% are females, and 48% are males. The city's racial makeup is 82% white (non-Hispanic/Latino), 5.6% African-American or Black, and 4.1% Hispanic or Latino. The remaining are distributed among Asians, Native Americans, and other races. English is spoken by 85.7% of the population. The rest speak Spanish (2.1%), Indo-European languages (7.4%), Asian and Pacific Islander languages (3.4%), and other foreign languages (1.4%). Only 57.1% of the population in Weymouth are naturalized US citizens. The veterans make up 6.9% of Weymouth's population, of which 94.3% are males, and 5.7% are females. As per the same Census, 65.8% of the population are employed, with a poverty rate of 6.3%. The homeownership rate in Weymouth is 68.2%, where the median gross rent cost is $1,552 per month, with a median household income of $85,536.

Attractions In Weymouth

Fore River Bridge

Aerial view of the Weymouth Fore River and Fore River Bridge in Quincy, Massachusetts.

The Weymouth Fore River is spanned by the Fore River Bridge between Quincy and Weymouth, Massachusetts. The bridge measures 675 m in length when the approaches are included.

Webb Memorial State Park

View of a rocky beach at Webb Memorial State Park in Weymouth, Massachusetts.

A peninsula known as Webb Memorial State Park juts out into Hingham Bay by half a mile. Visitors are greeted with beautiful views of Boston's harbor and skyline, and from May to October, organizations can rent a pavilion for special events. Fishing, picnicking, and walking are among the available recreational activities.

Osprey Overlook Park

From a landfill, Osprey Overlook Park has been turned into a beautiful park with breathtaking views of the Weymouth Back River. Having a direct connection to Great Esker Park, the Osprey Overlook Park forms a part of the Back River Trail network. This spacious, grassy park abuts the Back River and the salt marsh. From early spring to early October, keep an eye out for osprey.
The vehicle of interest in the recent killings of four Muslim men in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Investigators are piecing together what led to the killings of four Muslim men in Albuquerque, which have left the city's Islamic community struggling with grief and anxiety.
The North Dakota Supreme Court on Tuesday asked attorneys to weigh in on whether the appeal of quadruple murderer Chad Isaak is moot following his recent suicide and whether his death might mean that his conviction could be set aside.

Isaak's attorney filed the appeal on June 30. Isaak, 48, was declared dead at a Bismarck hospital about a month later, on July 31. Authorities that day responded to a call of inmate self-harm at the North Dakota State Penitentiary, where Isaak had been since being sentenced in December to life in prison without parole for the April 2019 slayings of four people at RJR Maintenance and Management.

His death occurred about the time the prosecution's response to his appeal was originally due, and it left questions about whether his appeal can, should or will proceed, and who makes that call. Supreme Court justices on Tuesday discussed the matter, and later referenced a rule in criminal law that could negate a conviction if the defendant dies before he or she can exhaust all appeals.

A jury in August 2021 convicted Isaak on four counts of murder and other charges in the April 1, 2019, deaths of RJR co-owner Robert Fakler, 52; and employees Adam Fuehrer, 42; and married couple Bill Cobb, 50, and Lois Cobb, 45.

Three of the victims were shot, and among the four they suffered more than 100 stab wounds, according to trial testimony. No motive was ever established.

South Central District Judge David Reich in December 2021 sentenced Isaak to four consecutive life sentences. Isaak had been behind bars since his arrest and was moved to the penitentiary after his conviction. Prison officials said Isaaks roommate was not in the cell at the time of his suicide.

Kiara Kraus-Parr, the attorney in Isaaks appeal, in a document submitted to the North Dakota Supreme Court on June 30 said Isaaks judgment should be reversed because of errors during jury selection and violations of Isaaks right to a public trial. No record was made of certain conferences involving the judge and attorneys held before and during the trial, Kraus-Parr said. She further argued that public access to court documents and autopsy photos was improperly closed, and that jurors were dismissed outside Isaak's presence.

Kraus-Parr did not respond to multiple Tribune phone calls and emails in the past week.

A response by prosecutors is due 30 days after an appeal is filed -- in Isaak's case, on July 30, the day before his death. Assistant Morton County States Attorney Gabrielle Goter before the deadline was granted an extra 60 days to review additional items for her response. She said she still plans to file it.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday posted on its website that attorney arguments on "whether the appeal is moot and whether or not the case abates" are due Aug. 30.

"It could set aside the verdict," Goter told the Tribune, adding that the justices "also asked us to address the effect on the victims families when looking at whether the appeal is moot and whether the case should abate."

Attorneys as they do research for their arguments will weigh victims' rights, the issue of suicide or of a defendant acting to take his own life mid-appeal, Goter said.

If the appeal would move forward and be successful, the case would be dismissed, according to the prosecutor. It couldn't go back to trial because a person can't be tried after death, she said.

"That significantly impacts victim rights," Goter said. "If the case abates, it's a similar result and effect on victims' rights."

Tim Purdon, a former federal prosecutor, said when a criminal defendant dies in the course of prosecution the general rule is that ends the criminal case.

With no criminal defendant theres no case, he said.

Joe Tamburino, a Minneapolis criminal defense attorney and legal analyst, said it appears the justices "are looking to explore two issues that could go either way with the right arguments." Mootness would mean that finishing the appeal is pointless since there is no dispute to be resolved.

"They may be looking for perspective on complete abatement -- overturning all prior convictions and indictments -- or partial abatement -- upholding prior convictions and dismissing appeals," Tamburino said. "The historical practice in North Dakota has been to dismiss appeals ... and uphold lower court convictions."

Details of Isaak's death have not been released pending the Patrols investigation.
Approximately two years' worth of text messages sent and received by conspiracy theorist Alex Jones have been turned over to the House select committee investigating the January 6 insurrection, a person familiar with the matter told CNN on August 8. Jones is pictured in an Austin courtroom on August 3.
The inspector for Wrexham town is appealing for information after a male was caught on CCTV trying car doors.

Insp Luke Hughes said the incidents took place on the Belvedere Drive area of Wrexham.

In his daily update, Insp Hughes said: He has a distinctive appearance, I think if you knew him you would recognise his features.

Of course if it is you and you were just walking along Belvedere Drive helping people and just checking they had locked their cars, please come forward so I can thank you for your community spirit.

If you have any further information on the individual pictured above, please contact North Wales Police on 101 quoting reference number

2000577767.

In the remainder of his daily update, Insp Hughes said

Im pleased to say that no new burglaries in the last 24hrs, enquiries are ongoing and thank you for all the information on who, what, why and where. The net is closing.

Quite a busy day for us yesterday, the usual mix of crime, social and health issues. A general review is set out below.

Ill be rolling up my sleeves later and helping to get our new town centre premises clean and tidy, Ill let you know when we are open and hopefully Ill be able to meet a few of you soon.

10:30hrs: Call from town centre bank. An elderly male wanted to transfer a significant amount of cash in relation to a crypto currently purchase.

Quite rightly staff are concerned and officers attend and explain that this would highly likely be some form of internet scam.

Transaction halted and will be investigated by Action Fraud & the bank themselves.

Please keep an eye on anyone that would be vulnerable to these sorts of scams. If it sounds too good to be true, then it is.

11:00hrs: Theft of pushbike reported  appears stolen in the town centre on the 8 August and has since been seen being ridden in the town.

Officers to make contact today and obtain picture so we can circulate / recover. Im not linking this to other matters of late, but I would point out that we are losing quite a few recently. This one was locked, however most others have not been. Please take sensible precautions please.

11:30hrs: Report of intoxicated male on Norman Road  officers attend and he has left, possible a male who caused issues a few days ago and NPT will be issuing him with a community protection notice (CPN) so if this behaviour continues he will likely end up being arrested.

If he needs help for issues we will support but it doesnt justify causing upset in the local community.

12:16hrs: Officers attend to help an elderly lady who has activated her emergency pendant  all in order on arrival.

13:18hrs: Two shopliftings reported at a convenience store in Borras  one a female who steals a basket of goods having arrived and left in a taxi, the cheek. This happened on the 8 August at 12:30hrs your taxi? Let me know quote B118229.

The second appears to have happened on the 4 August at 21:20hrs and is a very well-known female, driving a very well know vehicle. Im sure we will catch up with you soon.

14:00hrs: Report of fly tipping in the town centre, appears to have occurred at around 10am yesterday morning, enquiries ongoing.

18:00hrs: Report of Quad being driven antisocial on the dunks, Caia park.

Not that I need to advise you but this is extremely dangerous and wont be tolerated, the dunks is used by lots of children and your actions are totally disrespectful.

If we find you we will seize it, please find somewhere safe to ride it where you dont bother anyone else

19:17hrs: Three reports of a male riding around Acton on an off road bike  no helmet and swerving in and out of traffic  again  totally disrespectful and he will end up hurting himself or more importantly someone else.

Officer will monitor today in case he decides to repeat this dangerous act.

20:36hrs: Report of stolen bike from the area of Little Acton, offence caught on Ring Doorbell (other models are available) I cant recommend these enough. Officers will be out to review today.

21:15hrs: Concerns for a male who is duly located safe and well.

23:15hrs: Male arrested in the town centre for public order offences and common assault  also found to be wanted for other matters and failing to appear in court bad day for him not likely out for a while, shame.

04:00hrs: Male arrested for drink driving, never any excuse, at least a 12 month ban will follow is convicted in court

Thats all for now, stay safe all and please take care.
Met Office issues amber extreme heat warning for parts of Wrexham

An amber heat warning has been issued for large parts of England and Wales.

Although not in place for large parts of Wrexham the Met Office alert, which is place Thursday through until the end of Sunday, covers Chirk and Holt.

This is the second time in a matter of weeks that such a warning has been issued.

It comes as temperatures across parts of Wales and England are set to soar to 30C over the coming days.

Whereas last time the alert was issued due to what was record breaking temperatures, this one has been put in place due to the length of time the sustained high temperatures will be in place.

Outside the warning area, heatwave criteria are still likely to be met for much of the UK, with temperatures widely into the high 20s Celsius with a chance of a few spots seeing temperatures into the low 30s.

 Amber extreme heat warning issued  Extreme heat warning issued across parts of England and Wales Thursday 0000  Sunday 2359 Latest info  https://t.co/QwDLMfRBfs Stay #WeatherAware pic.twitter.com/L3p9rFqxfk  Met Office (@metoffice) August 9, 2022

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Rudman said: Thanks to persistent high pressure over the UK, temperatures will be rising day-on-day through this week and an Extreme heat warning has been issued.

Temperatures are expected to peak at 35C on Friday and Saturday, or even an isolated 36C on Saturday. Elsewhere will see temperatures widely into the high 20s and low 30s Celsius.

Coupled with the high daytime temperatures there will be some warm nights, with temperatures expected not to drop below the low 20s Celsius for some areas in the south.

National Highways Head of Road Safety, Jeremy Phillips said: It is always very important to plan ahead for your journey and this advice remains the same during periods of hot weather. When hot weather is forecast, please remember to take plenty of drinking water with you  enough for you and your passengers. You can visit our website to find out more information about travelling during hot weather.

We also advise everyone should check their vehicles, such as tyres, coolant and oil levels, before heading out.

Dr. Justine Shotton, President, British Veterinary Association, said: Whilst its wonderful to make the most of the warm weather, please dont forget to give some extra attention to pets, many of whom may struggle as the temperature rises. Animals need extra care during the summer to keep them safe from heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, heart conditions, breathing difficulties and sunburn, many of which can sadly be fatal.

Make sure animals have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times. Dogs especially can overheat easily, so make sure they arent walked or exercised in the hottest parts of the day or left inside a hot car or conservatory for even a little while. Keep an eye out for early signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, and lack of coordination and contact a vet immediately in case you have any concerns.
North East Wales Search and Rescue team take on Welsh Three Peaks carrying a casualty dummy called Fred

A team from North East Wales Search and Rescue (NEWSAR) are taking on a massive challenge today in a bid to raise funds for a new Incident Control Vehicle.

The Flintshire-based volunteer Search and Rescue team needs to urgently raise tens of thousands of pounds to replace their current ageing and unreliable vehicle.

As part of the fundraising drive, members of the team set out during the early hours of this morning, Saturday, August 6 to complete a gruelling challenge to climb the Welsh Three Peaks in less than 24 hours, but theres a twist.

The team will be carrying a stretcher with a 50KG casualty dummy named Fred on board, as a reward to him for all the hours hes put in helping us train. Team member Charlie Roberts said.

The group conquered the summit of Pen y Fan  the highest peak in South Wales  at dawn and will now head north to take on the tough accents of Cadair Idris and Snowdon over the course of the day.

The Welsh Three Peaks include a total walking distance of 17 miles (27.4km) and an ascent of 2334 metres (7657ft).

The appeal

NEWSAR is aiming to raise 75,000 to pay for the purchase of a replacement van and refit the interior with specialist equipment and power sources.

Incident Control Vehicle is a vital asset for the NEWSAR, it is integral to search and rescue operations, without it the team of volunteers would be unable to respond to many of the calls they are scrambled to in the region.

In addition to serving as a mobile Incident Control post, the vehicle serves as an educational hub when NEWSAR team members visit school children and talk about safety outdoors and what to do in an emergency.

It also helps transport team members to call-outs and events and deploy groups to search rural and semi-urban areas to look for missing people

carries additional emergency equipment for specialist rescues, such as flood rescue.

The vehicle provides a safe and warm shelter where we can treat casualties and a place from which to liaise with the emergency services and the families of those who have gone missing.

A fundraising page for the Three Peaks Challenge can be found here
Welsh Government accused of continuing to fail patients after damning Ysbyty Glan Clwyd report released

The Welsh Government have been accused of continuing to fail patients across North Wales following the release of a damning report into the emergency department at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd.

Health Inspectorate Wales (HIW) found a significant disconnect between the ward and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board during a follow-up inspection in May.

The inspection was undertaken to follow up on the significant concerns HIW identified during a previous quality check undertaken in March 2022.

However inspectors found that there was a lack of improvement to an acceptable standard in relation to concerns identified in March 2022.

As a result, HIW designated the emergency department in Ysbyty Glan Clwyd as a Service Requiring Significant Improvement (SRSI) on 9 May 2022.

A report released yesterday revealed additional areas of concern relating to patient safety were also raised following the inspection.

There were also concerns around the effectiveness of arrangements for assessing, monitoring, observing, and escalating unwell or deteriorating patients.

In reviewing the care records of 12 patients who had been triaged and were awaiting further assessment, treatment or intervention, HIW found significant issues relating to the timely provision of medical and nursing care.

One patient with chest pain and ECG abnormalities was placed in waiting area for five hours with no further escalation. Another who, despite having been recorded by a doctor as possibly having had a stroke, was placed in the waiting room for over 17 hours with infrequent observations and no documented checks until 12 hours after arrival.

HIW also found some infection prevention and control procedures were insufficient in clinic and treatment rooms, with a number of items of equipment used for invasive treatments found to be out of date and in some cases perished.

This included some equipment which expired in 2017.

The Welsh Government have now been described as failing patients across the region by the Welsh Conservatives.

Conservative Shadow Minister for North Wales, Darren Millar MS, said: Once again, the Labour Government in Cardiff Bay is failing the people of North Wales.

It will be deeply alarming to people across the region that the situation at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd still isnt getting things right despite being put into targeted intervention  Labour ministers need to step up and take responsibility for their failings.

It is becoming ever more evident that Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board was only taken out of special measures ahead of the Senedd Elections for purely political reasons.

It is unbelievable that Labour are focusing their efforts on expanding the Senedd rather than address the issues facing the NHS, especially in North Wales.

Plaid Cymru have described the issues raised by the inspectorate as another damning report.

Spokesperson for Health and Social Care, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, said: Another week, another damning report, and more concerns for patients safety. When will this end?

This report again speaks of patients being put at risk and staff working above and beyond in challenging conditions.

I have little faith in Welsh Governments targeted interventions, and once again I call on the Health Minister to look at how starting again with new health structures in the north could provide the fresh start patients and staff need.

Its not because I particularly want a health reorganisation but that I think we have little choice.

Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds added: This the latest in a number of alarming reports regarding Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board.

It is abundantly clear that the board was taken out of special measures before it was appropriate to do so.

Patients and staff must now get the reassurances needed from Labour that things are going to change.

The Welsh Government must work with the health board to take significant action immediately.
The process of industrialization upended traditional ways of life that undoubtedly caused fear and doubt. Its no surprise that some workers destroyed machinery in fear of lost work (the Luddites) or that workers banded together to negotiate for wages (the unions). But Frederick Douglass expressed frustration with the political economy of unionists, which he thought was not villainy but rather honest stupidity: the idea that every piece of bread that goes into the mouth of one man is so much bread taken out of the mouth of another. In other words, many unionists took the zero-sum-game view of the economythat for them to do better, someone else had to do worse. In an otherwise racist era, the union mentality drove a new form of racist oppression: shutting blacks out of unions and union jobs. What ought to surprise us a bit more is just how racist unions remained over time, including the passage of legislation inspired by explicitly eugenicist goals.

Paul Moreno covers much of this in his excellent Black Americans and Organized Labor, a devastating history of formalized racism in the union movement. One of his more surprising insights is that the popular progressive narrative that employers pitted black and white workers against one another to break up class solidarity turns out to be based on no real historical evidence. Given that the split between the two races allowed white workers to drive wages up, it wouldnt have made much sense if employers had behaved that way anyway, and intricate conspiracies that involve collusion between a bunch of competitors are never as probable as they sound. Instead, when we dig a little deeper, we see that employers were desperate to hire black workers but that white workers did everything in their power to keep them out. This story aligns both with the history and with the economic incentives at play. Given the rise of unionization pushes by employees of Starbucks, Amazon, Walmart, and other large chains, now is a good time to review some often-forgotten history of the union movement.

The exclusion of blacks by unions starts early, with white workers striking over the hiring of blacks in 1862 in Chicago (butchers), Cincinnati (waterfront workers), and New Orleans (dockworkers). The next year, in New York, Irish longshoremen rioted when black workers were hired by the shipping companies. But this exclusion became more poisonous with the rise of pseudo-scientific eugenics, chronicled in Illiberal Reformers by Thomas C. Leonard. Under progressive eugenics, the health of the nation would be upheld by supporting white male heads of households and suppressing blacks and immigrants through disemployment. In fact, it was this movement that gave rise to the idea of the minimum wage. Harvards Frank Taussig grieved that we were not so advanced as to proceed to chloroform those we wished to strip out of the population once and for all, so he outlined the disemployment effects of the minimum wage as a way to proceed with the eugenics project in the meantime. The idea that eugenicist social scientists in America were recommending policies with the goal of culling the population of undesirables sounds like a conspiracy theory from our perspective today. But the passage above appeared in a widely used economics textbook, and everyone from Woodrow Wilson to W.K. Kellogg to John Maynard Keynes were writing explicitly about improving the quality of the American stock through various economic and policy schemes.

This eugenicist language comes out in the debate over legislative support for unions. In principle, nothing about unionization violates classical liberal principles: If I can negotiate with my employer, I can certainly do so as part of a group. However, a slew of pro-union legislation in the 1930s tipped the scale in favor of the unions in ways that made their exclusion of black workers even more painful, including the Davis-Bacon Act of 1931, little Davis-Bacon laws in various states, the National Industrial Recovery Act of 1933, the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, and the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. The Davis-Bacon Act, which insisted that all federal government projects pay a prevailing wage (which meant a union-scale wage), was explicitly racist; here Robert Bacon argues for it in 1927: Only by this method can that large proportion of our population which is descended from the colonists  have their proper racial representation. As the bill was debated in Congress, the framing of what was at stake, eliminating competition with white labor, was ubiquitous. After its passage, black laborers were de facto barred from working on federal projects. In one episode, white workers went on strike to make railroad work all white, but the railroad fought hard to keep their black workers and won, inspiring Booker T. Washington to comment: Business has no color line.

The compilation of all these bills, which kept wages high and encouraged the formation of unions in more and more industries, certainly extended the severity of unemployment and the length of the Great Depression. But our point here concerns the racial makeup of the unemployed group, and the ways those groups that were already established in good positions were able to make sure other groups never got their foot in the door. Sometimes unions explicitly barred black people (Jim Crow laws were a factor here), sometimes implicitly, and other times blacks were allowed in but not meaningfully represented as a group or allowed promotion. Communists within the union movement made overtures toward black inclusion, which made sense considering their focus on class solidarity. But their commitment to atheism as well as their willingness to commit violence in pursuit of their goals alienated the majority of black Americans, who were (and remain) overwhelmingly Christian. In the long run, union exclusion had even worse effects when paired with other destructive government policies. With employers bearing the cost of paying into entitlement programs, and wages and pensions pushed sky high by the unions, manufacturing jobs were automated or offshored far sooner than they otherwise would have been. This means that by the time the civil rights movement finally achieved its victories in the mid-1960s, the loss of American manufacturing work was already underway. Many black men, relegated to manual labor jobs, never got to participate in the manufacturing boom that transitioned so many others from farm work to white collar work.

A subtler but perhaps more cunningly destructive phenomenon emerged at the same time. White comfort with black female employees, which arose from their history of working within the white home, led to their quicker advancement to jobs like teaching, nursing, and secretarial positions. It didnt take long for black parents to adjust their schooling goals as well, training boys for manual labor and girls for a life in the professions. Black sociologist Orlando Patterson argues that this shift in black education patterns and the subsequent split between black male and female economic outcomes has caused distrust and resentment between the sexes in the black community, assisting the perverse incentives of our welfare system to harm family formation even more.

While employment rates among black and white men were similar (black women worked quite a bit more than white women) up until the 1930s, after the advent of government-backed unionismincluding various forms of minimum-wage lawswe see blacks falling behind whites in employment. In Out of Work, Richard Vedder and Lowell Gallaway show that even after adjusting for migration and changes in occupation, these New Deal policies drove unemployment up by at least 10%. Sometimes the topics of economic recovery and growth can seem to be all about big companies or people who play the stock market. But as Jason L. Riley points out in Black Boom, big companies can relocate to Singapore if they want a better economic environment; you and I cannot. So the person most likely to lose, particularly in terms of marginal utility, is the person in the toughest position in any society. Its he who will lose his job, have his home foreclosed on, or give up on his dream of owning a small business. While fat cats may certainly feel disappointed when they open their financial statements, economic downturns can utterly change the life trajectory of someone on the bottom rung of the economic ladder. Thats one reason why policies that encourage general economic growthlike low taxes and deregulationare far more precious to the poor and downtrodden than to anybody else. Its no wonder that even W.E.B. Du Bois, (who flirted with communism at various points in his life!) couldnt get over his resentment against the unions. He said that their strategy seemed to be to form the union, strike for bargaining rights so that only they could represent the workers, and then close the union to black workers, effectively cutting them off from employment. Booker T. Washington put it more bluntly: Once blacks start working in factories, the trade union soon follows, and the Negro is crowded to the wall.

While we often think of unionism as pitting the worker against the employer, theres no escaping the inevitable effect on intra-worker relations. Union leader Samuel Gompers complained that employers care very little what nationality or color or previous conditions of life the wage worker has been or is in so long as he will consent to work cheap. Moreno noticed that relations between black Americans and employers were generally quite friendly, as marginalized workers saw their chance to start climbing the economic ladder by underbidding the competition. Branch Rickey and Jackie Robinson are a classic example of this phenomenon: It was the other players who wanted to keep blacks out, while Rickey and the fans wanted to get them in.

The upshot of all this is that we need not adopt a conflict theory of economics that pits workers against one another. When we understand that the market is all about innovation, we shift our thinking to an entrepreneurial mindset, one in which new workers are always welcome because there are always bigger and better things to be doing. We must reject the us-versus-them mentality of a zero-sum economics. Instead, when I win, you win. Unions especially need not take this view, but they still often do. We see the persistence of this attitude in concerns about immigration, in which evil corporate CEOs supposedly rub their hands in glee as they exploit illegal labor. In reality, immigrant labor is beneficial because immigrants do the jobs (both very low-skilled and very high-skilled) that American citizens dont care for. The only evidence we have for economic harm is competition with workers who do not have a high school diplomaalready a small population (under 5% of U.S. workers), but even then the effect is only a temporary ~3% reduction in income. (See Jason Rileys brief primer Black Boom for the data on this.) Immigrants provide labor we need and are a constant source of new patents and innovative entrepreneurship, both of which have a long-term beneficial effect on the economy as a whole. By erecting a high wall with a wide gate in our immigration policy, we could enjoy these benefits while avoiding the tragedies that go with being undocumented in America.

Similar objections can be made to other union postures: The opposition of the teachers unions to educational choice is a form of economic protectionism for public school teachers, as is the way police unions will require simple secretarial work to be done by a trained officer. In all these cases, other workers get shut out of their chance at trying something new or more efficient so that the established dont have to compete. And as weve argued elsewhere, this always comes at the expense of the least well-off in our society.

Its never OK for me to gain some temporary comfort by shutting you out, whether Im a union worker or a CEO in cahoots with my congressman. That kind of temporary gain is what we call bad profit or cronyism. Instead, gain by being more productive, more inventive, and more honest. Thats good profit: We can be proud of what weve generated because we know weve made others better off, too.
Military tensions remain high across the Taiwan Strait in the wake of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosis provocative trip last week to Taiwan. The American nuclear aircraft carrier, the USS Ronald Reagan, with its strike group, has been ordered to remain in nearby waters, as the Chinese military yesterday announced ongoing military drills.

US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, center, walks with Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, left, as she arrives in Taipei, Taiwan, Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022. [AP Photo/Taiwan Ministry of Foreign Affairs via AP]

Chinas Eastern Theatre Command declared that it was continuing to carry out practical joint exercises and training in the sea and airspace around Taiwan island and focusing on organising joint anti-submarine and sea assault operations. No indication was given of the time and place of the drills.

The continuing military activities follow the ending of major Chinese live-fire exercises involving warships, warplanes and missile launches in five different zones adjacent to Taiwan, in some cases crossing the median line in the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese military fired a number of short-range ballistic missiles, including several that landed inside Japans 200-nautical mile Economic Exclusion Zone.

The live-fire exercises ended at noon on Sunday, but the potential for an incident or clash remained high up until the last minute. An unnamed source told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation that shortly before those drills ended, about 10 warships each from China and Taiwan manoeuvred at close quarters around the unofficial median line of the Taiwan Strait. At its narrowest the Taiwan Strait separating the island from the Chinese mainland is just 130 kilometres wide.

The East China Sea Air Defense Identification Zone as shown in pink boundaries (Source: Wikipedia - CC BY-SA 2.0)

Taiwans foreign ministry yesterday condemned the announcement that Chinas Eastern Theatre Command was continuing to drill, declaring that Taiwan would not back down in the face of military intimidation.

Taiwans comments are part of the chorus of criticism orchestrated from Washington condemning Beijings response to Pelosis visit. White House officials, US politicians and media commentators have been joined by American military allies, such as Australia and Japan, in lashing Chinas actions as disproportionate, destabilising and aggressive.

What hypocrisy! The Biden administration was well aware that Pelosis trip was playing with fire and initially even warned against it, knowing that it had the potential to provoke a conflict. Both the Trump and Biden administrations have step-by-step been deliberately undermining the One China policy that has been the bedrock of US-China relations since formal diplomatic ties were established in 1979.

Under the One China policy, the US de facto recognised Beijing as the legitimate government of all China, including Taiwan, ended diplomatic relations with Taipei and withdrew all military forces from the island. After decades of limited low-level contact, the US has not only ratchetted up high-level US visits to Taiwan, but acknowledged the presence of US troops on the island and dramatically boosted arms sales to Taiwan.

In that context, the visit by Pelosi, the second in line to the US president, was calculated to provoke a response. Just as the US goaded Russia into invading Ukraine by ignoring its national security concerns, so the Biden administration is intent on provoking a proxy war with China in Taiwan.

Biden has now declared on three occasions that the US would join Taiwan in any conflict with Chinaa clear breach of the longstanding policy of strategic ambiguity. The US previously sought to stabilise the inherently unstable situation across the Taiwan Strait. In order to inhibit Taiwanese provocations against Beijing, it refused, until now, to declare military support for Taiwan in a war with China, in all circumstances.

All of this gives the lie to the repeated claims by top US officials that Washington has done nothing, including with Pelosis trip, to change the status quo. The US and international media is full of speculation and propaganda about what China is doing and warnings of Beijings aggressive intentions towards Taiwan.

For instance, the Guardian cited US defence department policy chief, Colin Kahl, who accused Beijing of trying to salami-slice their way into a new status quo across the Taiwan Strait. Its the activities in the strait itself, he said, the sheer number of maritime and air assets that are crossing over this de facto centre line, creeping closer to Taiwan shores, where its clear that Beijing is trying to create a kind of new normal.

In reality, it is US imperialism that is implementing its salami-slicing strategystep-by-step rendering the One China policy a dead-letter, arming Taiwan to the hilt and conducting provocative air and naval operations in sensitive waters close to the Chinese mainlandin order to provoke and bog China in a protracted military conflict in Taiwan.

In the wake of Pelosis visit, the US is already preparing new provocations. Kahl told the Guardian that the US military would continue to fly, to sail and to operate wherever international law allows us to do so, and that includes in the Taiwan Strait.

Last week White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby announced that the US would conduct air and maritime transits through the Taiwan Strait in the next few weeks. He provided no details. Under the Biden administration, the Pentagon has been sending warships through the Taiwan Strait roughly once a month, knowing that such operations inflame tensions with China.

At the same time, anti-China hawks in the US Congress are intensifying their bipartisan campaign to push through the Taiwan Policy Act that would mandate a far more belligerent US stance on Taiwan. The Act would end the pretence of strategic ambiguity and commit the US to joining a war by Taiwan against China. As well as providing almost $4.5 billion in military assistance to Taiwan, the bill would designate Taiwan as a Major Non-NATO Ally, effectively overturning the One China policy, rupturing relations with China and setting the US on the path to war.

In bellicose comments on Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press, Democrat Senator Chris Van Hollen declared: We need to help Taiwan make that as difficult as possible for China, and weve been doing that by supplying Taiwan with military assistance. We need to continue to do that to make Taiwan into the porcupine, so that when China looks at Taiwan, it realizes that this is going to be a hell of a fight and not a winnable fight.

What Van Hollen and others portray as a strategy of deterring China, is, in fact, a strategy of goading Beijing into reunifying Taiwan by force to prevent it from being transformed into a US base of operations against China. Washingtons aim is an extended proxy war that will weaken, destabilise and ultimately fragment the country it regards as the chief threat to US global dominance even at the risk of a far broader nuclear conflagration.
More than two dozen FBI agents raided Donald Trumps estate in Mar-a-Lago Monday, executing a search warrant for evidence of a federal crime. The ex-president was away at his New York City apartment as the agents carted off many boxes of documents as well as the contents of his personal safe and a number of electronic devices such as computers and cellphones.

Police direct traffic outside an entrance to former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate, Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, in Palm Beach, Fla. [AP Photo/Terry Renna]

The raid first became public when Trump issued a statement denouncing it, sent to the major television and cable networks, calling the action part of a witch-hunt by Radical Left Democrats and ludicrously comparing it to Watergate. He said the raid was unannounced until the agents arrived at his property. His son Eric, who was at Mar-a-Lago at the time, said that there were about 30 agents in the FBI group.

No former president has ever been subject to such a raid. But then, no former president has been implicated in an attempt to overthrow the government, overturn his election defeat, and extend his term in office in violation of the law and the US Constitution.

The Biden White House claimed to have no advance word of the impending deployment of dozens of FBI agents against the home of the former president. If true, the raid becomes even more extraordinary.

Traditionally, the FBI operates under rules that bar any public investigative action related to a political figure, including subpoenas, raids or indictments, less than 60 or in some cases 90 days before an election.

In 2016, however, FBI Director James Comey broke this rule and helped tip the presidential election to Trump, announcing less than a week before the vote that the bureau was reopening its investigation into Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton for her use of a private server to route and store her emails while she was secretary of state in the Obama-Biden administration.

Now, 92 days before the 2022 midterm elections, the FBI publicly targets the leader of the Republican Party, under conditions where the Republicans are favored to win control at least of the House of Representatives, and possibly the Senate as well. This result would effectively turn Democrat Joe Biden into a lame duck two years before the next presidential election.

Treating Trump as a criminal is certainly justified, given his role as the instigator of the January 6, 2021 attack on Capitol Hill and a whole series of preceding efforts to overturn the 2020 election through illegal and unconstitutional methods. Reportedly, however, the raid on Mar-a-Lago is tied only indirectly to January 6, because it concerns the illegal removal of 15 boxes of presidential records from the White House as Trump was leaving office.

Whatever the evidence that was presented to a federal judge to obtain a search warrant, the sudden and unexpected FBI action may have been provoked by the desire to preempt some new violent strike for power by Trump and his supporters.

At the Conservative Political Action Conference Saturday night in Dallasand increasingly in his campaign-style rallies and social media statementsTrump has employed the most incendiary language, telling his fascist supporters that they must ensure a Republican victory in the 2022 midterm elections or else face the destruction of America as we know it.

Trump has come close to announcing his own candidacy for president in the 2024 elections, despite pleas from the Republican Party establishment that he wait until after the 2022 midterms. Significantly, the charge implicit in Mondays FBI action, a charge of taking or destroying classified documents, carries as one of its penalties disqualification from holding federal office in the future.

In other words, if Trump were to be tried and convicted on such a charge, he would become ineligible to run for president in the next election.

The specific issues raised in the warrant, as far as can be gleaned from press reports, are that Trump may have violated the Presidential Records Act, which requires the preservation of all written and electronic records related to a presidents official duties.

The Act was passed by Congress and signed into law in response to the conduct of President Richard Nixon during the Watergate crisis, in which he sought to cover up his role in approving the burglary of the offices of the Democratic National Committee, and then in authorizing hush payments to the former CIA operatives who carried out the failed break-in.

Watergate led to Nixon resigning from the presidency in order to avoid impeachment, an action he took the night of August 8, 1974coincidentally, the same date as the FBI raid on Trump.

A second track of criminal investigation of Trump reportedly relates to the plan to illegally name electors from key states where Biden won by only a narrow margin, and send these names to Washington to provide a pretext for challenging Bidens election during the January 6 ceremony in which Congress counts the electoral votes.

The Justice Department has searched the home of former Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey Clark, whom Trump was prepared to name as attorney general because he was willing to send an official letter to six states saying there was evidence of fraud. It also seized the cellphone of John Eastman, the law professor and Trump attorney who was the principal advocate of the scheme to substitute phony electors for those chosen by the voters.

The investigation related to the removal and destruction of White House documents comes amid mounting evidence of widespread destruction of evidence throughout the Trump administration in the wake of January 6. Once it became clear that the coup had failed, and that Democrat Joe Biden would be inaugurated on January 20, top officials in the White House, the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security and other agencies began a systematic purge of evidence of their roles in the coup.

Photos obtained by Axios and published Monday purport to show a White House toilet stuffed with documents that Trump was seeking to flush, some with his own handwriting visible on them. Hours of White House visitor logs and phone records have disappeared, as reported by the House Select Committee investigating the January 6 attack.

Secret Service, DHS and Pentagon cellphones have been wiped clean of text messages on January 6 and for some days earlier, vital evidence of the actions of Trump, Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller, Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf, and other top officials during the attempted coup.
Over the past three days, relentless Israeli airstrikes killed at least 45 Palestinians, including 16 children, and caused extensive devastation.



At least 400 were wounded, many severely, and the handful of barely functioning hospitals and clinics were overwhelmed. Some 2.3 million Palestinians live in Gaza, confined by Israeli and Egyptian military cordons and fences. Hundreds of powerful bombs and missiles have rained down on a territory comprising only 141 square milesexactly equal in area to the city of Detroit.

The most heavily bombed neighborhoods, where Israeli officials claimed leaders of the Islamic Jihad were the targets, were scenes of apocalyptic destruction, with apartment buildings transformed into craters and body parts strewn about. An Al-Jazeera montage of the faces of 12 martyred children, supplied by the Palestinian Health Ministryshown herewas circulated throughout the Arab world, producing widespread outrage.

If it were Ukrainian children who suffered the same fate, there is no doubt that the American corporate media, the faithful servant of the CIA and State Department, would be providing saturation coverage. There would be endless hours devoted to mourning the loss of innocent lives and branding those responsible for their deaths as murderers and war criminals. No such terms will be used for Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid, Defense Minister Benny Gantz and other top Israeli military and intelligence officials.

Sixteen children aged 18 and under were killed by Israeli air strikes on Gaza over the past three days. Twelve are pictured here; the three without photos, all siblings, died in the Al-Jabaliya refugee camp in Gaza. The 16th child died in the hospital late Monday of wounds received earlier, and has not yet been named.

The New York Times, which has spearheaded the medias campaign over supposed Russian atrocities in the Ukraine war, began its report on the temporary halt in the Gaza bombardment this way: A cease-fire ending three days of fierce cross-border fighting between Israel and a Palestinian militant group in Gaza appeared to be holding on Monday, and life on both sides of the lines began to return to normal.

The supposed fierce cross-border fighting was a completely one-sided affair, with the Israeli military, the most powerful in the Middle East, armed to the teeth by US imperialism, dropping bombs and missiles on a defenseless population. Meanwhile, militants of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) fired off hundreds of rudimentary home-made rockets, nearly all of them landing harmlessly or shot down by Israelis antimissile system.

As to the return to normal, for the people of Gaza, this means unbearable poverty, a 50 percent unemployment rate and a smashed infrastructure, in what is routinely described by observers as the largest open-air prison camp on the planet. Electricity is available only 11 hours a day even when the Gaza power plant is running, but it was shut down, not because of the bombing, but because Israel and Egypt halted the delivery of fuel supplies required to keep it running.

The Biden administration issued a brief statement welcoming the ceasefire, expressing appreciation for the role of Egypt, Qatar, Jordan and other reactionary Arab dictatorships and monarchies for their role in the diplomacy that brought a temporary end to the violence, while condemning Islamic Jihad for indiscriminate rocket attacks. Biden reaffirmed his long-standing and unwavering support for Israel, adding, I commend Prime Minister Yair Lapid and his governments steady leadership throughout the crisis.

There is no doubt that the onslaught against Gaza was discussed and approved during Bidens visit to Israel July 13-15, just three weeks before the well-prepared attack began. The Pentagon will now rush to resupply the munitions expended by the Israel Defense Force during the bombing campaign.

The rocket exchanges with PIJ were deliberately provoked by Israels arrest and detention of the senior leader of the group on the West Bank, Bassam al-Saadi, on August 1 in the city of Jenin. This was part of a systematic campaign of Israeli military violence in Jenin which has killed at least 30 Palestinians and wounded hundreds since the beginning of this year.

The timing of the attack seemed calculated to benefit Prime Minister Lapid, who heads a caretaker coalition regime headed into a November 1 general election. A Times of Israel headline declared: With elections looming, Lapids Gaza gamble seems to have paid off and cited the former television broadcasters need to burnish his military credentials before a contest where the main opposition comes from the right-wing militarist Benjamin Netanyahu, whose Likud Party coalition was ousted just last year.

Israeli press reports suggest that the main shift in policy since the fall of Netanyahu has been a decision to concentrate on the destruction of Islamic Jihad, the smaller of the two Islamist groups in Gaza, noting that Lapid had not mentioned Hamas, the ruling party in Gaza, in his public statements on the Israeli military attack. On Saturday night, General Oded Basyuk, the head of the Israeli Defense Forces Operations Unit, told reporters that the IDF had successfully killed the entire senior security echelon of Islamic Jihads military wing in Gaza.

The response of the Arab rulers to the three-day bombardment of Gaza provided example of their cynical treachery and betrayal of the interests of the Palestinian people and the Arab masses as a whole. Most of the Gulf sheikdoms followed the lead of Saudi Arabia, whose media denounced Islamic Jihad as a tool of Iran and suggested that PIJ had provoked the conflict in conjunction with the resumption of nuclear energy talks between Iran and the so-called P5+1 group (the five full members of the UN Security Council plus Germany). These talks resumed in Vienna on August 4.

This allegation turns the world upside down. It is far more likely that the Israeli regime, not Islamic Jihad, timed the conflict to disrupt the nuclear talks because it stridently opposes any deal that would ease sanctions on Iran.

The bloodstained Egyptian military regime brokered the ceasefire, while maintaining its iron grip on Gazas western border, which it has largely closed since Hamas came to power in the territory in 2007.

The Gaza bloodbath also demonstrates the impotent and bankruptcy of the Palestinian bourgeois nationalists of every stripe, whether the Islamist variety, like Hamas, or the secular Fatah group which controls the Palestinian Authority and acts as Israels appointed prison guard on the West Bank. It is noteworthy that while the US and Israel still nominally treat Hamas as a terrorist group, Egypt, Qatar and the UN mediators dealt with the Hamas leaders as if they were the legitimate and sole rulers of the Gaza Strip, as the Jerusalem Post observed.

The situation in Gaza remains fraught. The Israeli military has called up 25,000 reserves and has no plans to demobilize them, while an Islamic Jihad leader said that if Israel did not release two imprisoned PIJ leaders, including Bassam al-Saadi, by the weekendas was apparently promised to Egyptthe conflict would be resumed.

There is no way out of the intractable and bloody conflicts in the Middle East through any of the reactionary nationalist regimes or through maneuvers with the United Nations and the European imperialist powers, let alone through peace talks brokered by Washington, the center of world reaction and militarism. The only road forward is through an international movement of the working class and oppressed masses throughout the region, which unite Arab, Israeli, Turkish and Kurdish workers on the basis of a socialist and anti-imperialist program.
Last Friday, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel requested a special prosecutor be named to investigate her Trump-endorsed opponent, Matthew DePerno and eight other people she said were party to a conspiracy to unlawfully obtain access to voting machines used in the 2020 General Election.



The petition alleges that the accused illegally obtained voting machines, under false pretenses, from three different counties in rural Michigan. After obtaining the machines Nessels petition claims that they broke into the machines and performed tests before returning the machines damaged back to the election clerks. It is a felony crime to conspire with another person to obtain access to voting machines used in an election.

FILE - In this June 4, 2019, photo, Dana Nessel, Attorney General of Michigan, listens to a question from reporters in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya File)

In addition to DePerno, Nessel is requesting the special prosecutor levy charges against current state Republican Rep. Daire Rendon, Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf, lawyer Stefanie Lambert Juntilla, Ben Cotton, Ann Howard, Jeff Lenberg, QAnon fascist Douglas Logan and James Penrose.



In her petition Nessel alleged that the Michigan State Police (MSP) and special agents at the Michigan Department of Attorney General (MDAG) found evidence of charges that include but are not limited to ... conspiracy, using a computer system to commit a crime, willfully damaging a voting machine, malicious destruction of property, fraudulent access to a computer or computer system and false pretenses.



In the August 5 petition Nessel revealed that on February 10, 2022 Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson requested that MDAG and MSP launch an investigation after her office became aware of the fact that unidentified people had gained access to vote tabulators, components and technology in Roscommon, Michigan.



Nessel, the current Democratic attorney general, noted that when the investigation began there was not a conflict of interest. However, during the course of the investigation, facts were developed that DePerno was one of the prime instigators of the conspiracy.



DePerno is Nessels likely opponent in the 2022 midterm attorney general election after he secured, thanks to a Trump endorsement, the Republican nomination on April 23.



This conflict of interest is why Nessel is requesting the Michigan Prosecuting Attorneys Coordinating Council appoint a special prosecutor to charge the aforementioned.



The petition alleges that DePerno, Lambert Juntilla and Rendon orchestrated a coordinated plan to gain access to voting tabulators that had been used in Roscommon County and Richfield Township (Roscommon County), Irving Township (Barry County) and Lake City Township (Missaukee County).



In all, the petition alleges that five voting tabulators from those three counties were taken to hotels and/or Airbnbs in Oakland county, where Lenberg, Cotton, Penrose and Logan broke into the tabulators and performed tests on the equipment.



The petition notes that during the course of the investigation, DePerno was present at a hotel room during such testing.



The petition claims that in order to obtain a voting machine in Roscommon County, the clerk stated she was told by Rep. Rendon that the House of Representatives was conducting an investigation in election fraud.



Last October, Rep. Rendon and DePerno participated in a pro-Trump rally outside the Michigan State Capitol, where they both gave speeches claiming the election was stolen. At the rally Rendon wore an American flag pin with a gold Q on it, a reference to the fascist conspiracy theory that posits Trump is a Christ-like figure charged by God with leading a righteous purge of deep state Democratic pedophiles and Satan worshipers.



In her speech in front of the Capitol last October, Rendon claimed (perhaps due to some experience) that electronic voting machines were accessible and susceptible to hacking and that there was evidence of fraud in the 2020 election.



Douglas Logan is the CEO of Cyber Ninjas, a pro-Trump company that led the dubious forensic audit of the Arizona vote following the 2020 election. Logan is a far-right conspiracy theorist and an adherent to the QAnon conspiracy.



Barry County Sheriff Dar Leaf is a leading member of the fascistic Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association and is accused of convincing an election clerk to turn over the machine to him as part of a rogue investigation headed by him and his co-conspirators into nonexistent election fraud.



Last month, local Michigan station WOODTV 8 reported that Barry County Clerk Pam Palmer had witnessed the Irving Township clerk, Sharon Olson, allow an investigator with Leafs Barry County Sheriffs office take one of the townships three Dominion voting machine tabulators in June 2021.



Palmer said when the machine was returned it had a broken seal.



In April this year, Michigan State police raided the clerks office in Barry Countys Irving Township and confiscated a vote tabulator suspected of being taken by one of Leafs investigators. Olson told the Michigan State Police, according police documents viewed by Reuters, that the investigator working with Leaf told her he needed to forensically examine the tabulator.



An article in the Detroit News noted that Cotton, Lenberg, Logan and Penrose had all been involved in efforts to question the 2020 election... Cotton, Lenberg and Penrose have been cited as experts by DePerno previously in a lawsuit hes led against the election in Antrim County.



DePernos lawsuit against Antrim County was frequently cited by Trump in the lead-up to and on January 6, as evidence that the 2020 election was stolen. A human error made by a Republican voting clerk, temporarily caused votes to be miscounted for Biden as opposed to Trump.



Despite the fact that the error was quickly corrected and Biden won Michigan by roughly 10 times more votes than the roughly 15,000 that were cast in all of Antrim Country, Trump and his coup lawyers have cited this temporary error and the fact that the voting machines used in Antrim County were manufactured by Dominion Voting Systems, to claim the entire election was rigged.



For over two years Trump and his right-wing supporters have claimed without a shred of evidence that some combination of Democrats, communists, Chinese spies, Italian military satellites, and the deceased Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez have tampered with Dominion Voting Machines to cheat Trump out of the presidency. However, it now appears that the only people who have actually interfered with Dominion Voting Machines in order to change the results of future elections, are Republican-aligned lawyers, businessmen, politicians and cops.
In the midst of its escalating provocations against China over Taiwan, the Biden administration approved yet another $1 billion in military aid to Ukraine. This brings the total direct military aid provided by the Pentagon to Ukraine since the beginning of the imperialist-provoked invasion by Russia to $9.8 billion. The White House also announced an additional $4.5 billion in financial aid for Ukraine on Monday.

According to the Pentagon, the new tranche of weapons deliveries will include:

additional ammunition for the 16 long-range HIMARS missiles which the Biden administration began delivering to Ukraine in May;

75,000 rounds of 155mm artillery ammunition;

20 120 mm mortar systems and 20,000 rounds of 120 mm mortar ammunition;

1,000 Javelin (each worth about $78,000) and hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems;

50 armored medical treatment vehicles;

C-4 explosives, demolition munitions and demolition equipment; and

Munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS).

This comes on top of $23.8 billion in military aid, including direct military aid and financial aid designed to help finance future weapons purchases, that the US had pledged as of July 1, according to the Kiehl Institute for the World Economy.

The new tranche in weapons is aimed at bolstering the Ukrainian army as it is preparing an offensive in the south of the country which has been largely occupied by Russia. Ukrainian officials have also threatened an offensive targeting the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014, with a Pentagon spokesman refusing to rule out such attacks, even though Kremlin officials have threatened to retaliate with nuclear weapons.

Highlighting the immense dangers posed by the conflict, there has been intense fighting at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plantthe largest of its kind in Europeover the past week. Russia and Ukraine have traded accusations of shelling the plant, which was reportedly damaged last week. Officials of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have warned that theres a very real risk of a nuclear disaster. According to Bloomberg, Russia has invited IAEA representatives to visit the plant, but they are still awaiting permission from Kiev, as well as security guarantees and a safe passage through the war zone.

The latest US weapons delivery announcement comes as more and more information emerges that confirms the utterly criminal character of the imperialist proxy war against Russia in Ukraine and its horrific toll on the civilian population and soldiers on both sides. Reports by Amnesty International and the United Nations have now confirmed that the Ukrainian military is deploying tactics that serve to drive up civilian casualties. In violation of international law, Ukrainian troops have been routinely launching rockets and stationing personnel in densely populated areas, including hospitals, and have been using civilians as human shields.

While the Ukrainian government responded with hysterical denunciations to the report by Amnesty International, there has been no credible denial of the allegations of serious violations of international law.

The United Nations now put the figures of civilian casualties at over 5,400 dead and over 7,300 wounded. At least 12 million people out of a pre-war population of less than 40 million have been displaced by the war. Out of these 12 million, about 5 million have fled to neighboring countries, primarily Poland, while at least 7 million were displaced within Ukraine.

Ever more horrifying figures are also emerging about the shocking number of casualties among the Ukrainian army. While it has been impossible to confirm the veracity of documents circulating on social media which suggest that a stunning 191,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been either killed or wounded in action, it is clear that the casualties among the Ukrainian army must by now be in the tens of thousands. In June, one of the advisers of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Aleksei Arestovich, publicly stated that about 10,000 Ukrainian soldiers had been killed with another 100 more dying each day. The total number of dead must have increased significantly in the past months since this public revelation. The Ukrainian army also admitted that 7,200 men were missing in action as of July 11.

The Russian military has not made a single public statement on its casualties since March, when it acknowledged that 1,351 soldiers had died and 3,825 had been wounded in the first few weeks of the war. The Russian BBC wrote in June that it had established the names of at least 3,502 dead Russian soldiers and officers, based on official statements and information about funerals. The US government claims that the Russian military has had between 70,000 and 80,000 casualties.

Whatever the real numbers, it is already clear that the war in Ukraine is the bloodiest conflict in Europe since 1945, and, indeed, one of the bloodiest in modern history with the Washington Post noting in June that it is killing far more soldiers per day than the typical war. Yet Western weapons manufacturers are reaping profits from the slaughter and the massive military build-up by the imperialist powers.

In the first month of the invasion alone, the shares of the two leading US weapons manufacturers, Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Technologies, increased by 28 and 20 percent respectively. A report by Business Insider from May revealed that 20 Democratic and Republican congressmen and women owned shares in these two weapons manufacturers, with some buying their shares on February 24 or just days before the war began. All of them voted in favor of a massive $40 billion bill, which provides for over $17 billion for weapons that are to be manufactured in the US, primarily by these two companies, and then sent to Ukraine.

The bonanza of war profiteers is not limited to the US. The German weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall, a company that already ranked among the biggest profiteers from the horrific crimes of German imperialism in both world wars, saw its stock price surge a whopping 88 percent in the first three months of the war. Using the Russian invasion of Ukraine as a pretext, the German government announced a 100 billion rearmament program, the largest in German post-war history, which included a 42 billion order to Rheinmetall.

The British Telegraph reported in late July that the UKs BAE Systems, the largest weapons manufacturer in Europe, is expecting a flood of new orders from countries preparing for the return of industrial war. In the first six months of this year, the company already enjoyed a 18 billion (70 percent) boost in orders and saw its earnings before interest payments and tax rise to 1.11 billion. The UK has been the second-biggest weapons supplier to Ukraine, after the US.

Britains second largest weapons manufacturer Babcock has also been seeing orders raining in from Eastern European NATO member states, which are massively building up their militaries and are trying to switch from Soviet-era weapons. After making a loss of 1.18 billion the year prior, Babcock unveiled a pre-tax profit of 182.3 million in March 2022, and an order book up more than a fifth to almost 10 billion.

Charles Woodburn, BAE chief executive, told the Financial Times last week that his company was negotiating more orders with multiple governments, including the British. He stated, We see this playing out over a multiyear period now.
The WSWS continues to receive statements supporting Dr David Berger, an Australian physician and dedicated zero-COVID advocate who is being threatened with deregistration by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) over his social media condemnations of the governments let it rip coronavirus policies.

Dr David Berger (Image: Supplied)

Since the publication of our first article on July 8, which called on scientists, health workers and other workers to come to Dr. Bergers defence, the WSWS has published nineteen articles compiling statements of support, including from workers, students and professionals.

Statements of support can be emailed here. Please indicate in the email how you would like to be identified in our next article, and if you want to include a photo, please attach one to the email.

Sam Poon, a La Trobe University student from Melbourne:

I am a Nepalese student at La Trobe and support Dr David Berger. He has been threatened by AHPRA for telling the truth, despite his reputation and dedication to saving lives in remote areas. I find it heartbreaking and unfortunate to see a generous health worker rebuked by a regulatory body, not because of his faulty practice but because he tried to save numerous families and school children from contracting COVID-19.

The government claims that vaccination-only policies are enough to beat this mighty but tiny virus. The actual reality is different. The data regarding deaths and vaccination shows us that there is substantial but still limited influence that vaccines can have in the fight to control the spread of the disease and save lives. The world has suffered three major waves and there are now numerous new variants.

China has applied strict rules and selective lockdowns. Due to this, only 5,000 people have lost their lives. On the other hand, the United States, which never declared official lockdowns and always underestimated the power of the virus, lost over one million citizens. Therefore, we can easily say that proper social distancing, strict rules and emergency lockdowns in the regions where outbreaks occur are key to controlling the disease, not just the vaccines.

I request that every government develop other COVID-19 safety measures with vaccine mandates and stop threatening their citizens.



James, an environmental activist from Maitland in New South Wales:

The attack on people like Dr Berger and Julian Assange proves that democracy isnt working. If youre a whistleblower, youre being shut down. This is so wrong when the science about COVID is therethe evidence is outstandingand yet those who are stepping up for the broader community are being shut down because its not in the interests of governments and the corporations. Enough is enough. These people deserve gold medals, not potentially losing their medical licence, or gaol time, in the case of Assange.

James

The apathy and the nihilism is unrealthe attitude that Oh, it wont happen to me, or Its too hard. People need to start caring more about this because they could find themselves in the same situation. This is also the case with the climate crisis.

Were told to stay in our boxes, do what youre told, toe the line or face the consequences like Dr David Berger right now, or Assange. The anti-vaxxers got away with assault and shutting down towns. If that was our movementfighting for public health or for climate actionwed be absolutely slammed. As youve just informed me, 150 people died of COVID last Friday, thats crazy and yet this doesnt make the news.

John Lonergan, an unemployed 22-year-old from Newcastle in New South Wales:

Dr David Berger needs to be taken seriously. When COVID first hit, we were doing quite well, we only got 2 to 3 cases a day in some instances and were able to manage it. It was initially because of the circumstances we found ourselves in and didnt have much to do with government policy.

The situation with COVID now was completely preventable. Its due to the Australian media, which has been saturated with one narrative and designed to keep people ignorant and unaware of what is really going on. Its different rules for different classes and I dont think thats an accident, it is very deliberate.

My own housemate had COVID and because we live in supported living he had to be transported to another location. Numbers of my friends have caught it, and my own brother got it and hes been quite sensible and cautious around it, wearing masks and social distancing.

Its alarming that the government has removed all the public health measures. Most of us are vaccinatedweve at least got some protectionbut there are so many variables of how COVID can be harmful. The reason why it is alarming right now is the immense strain that is being placed on the medical system. When that happens the likelihood of people dying increases greatly.

China got on top of the Omicron outbreak very quickly. Its population is insanely larger than Australias. The fact that we have had more deaths in Australia than China has had throughout the whole pandemic is very telling.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents conducted a series of raids on July 29 directed against the African Peoples Socialist Party (APSP) in St. Louis, Missouri and St. Petersburg, Florida.

APSP Chairman Omali Yeshitela in front of his home after the July 29 FBI raid [Photo by stltoday.com]

The raids are linked to a 25-page indictment issued against Aleksandr Viktorovitch Ionov, a Russian national accused of conspiracy to commit offense against the United States (18 U.S.C.  371), a loosely defined federal crime with a penalty of up to five years in prison as well as heavy fines.

The APSP as well as several other unidentified political groups, all of which remain unindicted at this point, are accused of having acted as co-conspirators with Ionov and Russian intelligence in order to undermine the authority of the United States, sow division within the broader population, and interfere in US elections.

All supposedly conspiratorial political activity listed in the indictment is protected under the First Amendment of the US Constitution.

The indictment against Ionov cites as evidence of an alleged conspiracy involving the targeted US-based organizations correspondence and collaboration with the Anti-Globalization Movement of Russia (AGMR), an organization headed by Ionov, which the FBI and the Department of Justice (DOJ) claim has ties to Russias Federal Security Service (FSB).

It further accuses senior members of the APSP of having known of AGMRs ties to the Russian state, and alleges that the APSP and other co-conspirators willingly received money from the Russian governmenta claim the APSP has publicly denied.

The APSPs only activities noted in the indictment consist of holding rallies in various American cities opposing the Genocide of African People in the United States and making public statements denouncing US-NATO involvement in the war in Ukraine, while expressing political sympathy for Russia.

The case has all the hallmarks of a political frame-up targeting a political organization for its opposition to the US-NATO war against Russia. It points to an attempt to intimidate and criminalize opposition to the war more broadly.

It should be noted that the indictment was drawn up against Ionov in the knowledge that he resides in Moscow and any attempt to extradite him to stand trial would be almost certain to fail. It appears that the main purpose of the indictment against Ionov is to justify the Biden administrations use of state repression against left-wing opponents within the US of Washingtons imperialist agenda with regard to Russia.

The indictment explicitly refers to the ongoing conflict, devoting an entire section to the subject under the heading 2022: Russian Invasion of Ukraine. It states:

On or about March 13, 2022, [Unidentified Co-Conspirator 4] gave a video presentation on behalf of [the APSP], in which she stated that [the APSP] and [Yeshitela], along with the leaders of Venezuela, China, Iran, Cuba, and Nicaragua had spoken out in opposition to the U.S. imperialist-created crisis in Ukraine and in solidarity with the people of Russia and their elected government and leadership.

The impact of Russian malign foreign influence cannot be overstated, said Luis Quesada, assistant director of the FBIs Criminal Investigative Division in an official Department of Justice statement on the indictment. Quesada then made an ominous warning: The FBI will aggressively pursue any foreign government that attempts to divide American citizens and poison our democratic process.

Heavily armed FBI agents raided the St. Louis home of APSP Chairman Omali Yeshitela, 80, and his wife Ona in the early morning hours of Friday, July 29. FBI agents drove to their home in an armored vehicle, set off flash bang grenades throughout the neighborhood, hovered a drone at the front door of the house, and commanded through a loudspeaker that Yeshitela and Ona come outside with their hands up.

Yeshitela stated that the drone almost struck Ona in the face as she exited their home. Agents handcuffed them and forced them to sit on the curb while investigators searched the house, seizing their cellphones and computers.

Yeshitela, in a Facebook Live video, described the FBIs highly provocative behavior: There are combat-clad FBI agents all over the place carrying automatic weapons. ... They not only are in front of the house, they are occupying the porch and the yard of the neighbors next door.

He noted that during the raid, agents had broken a window downstairs and forced their way into the apartment next door by smashing the door in. They were making a big show in the community, he said. Neither Yeshitela nor Ona were shown a physical copy of the search warrant until well after the fact.

Simultaneous raids were carried out at APSP offices in St. Louis and in St. Petersburg, Florida. In all cases, agents used battering rams to knock down doors.

In St. Louis, agents detained APSP members and supporters at gunpoint and handcuffed them prior to searching the premises. In St. Petersburg, agents raided the APSP-affiliated radio station as well.

FBI officers also went to the home of Akila Anai, an APSP member in St. Petersburg, and lured her outside by telling her the lie that her car had been broken into. Agents proceeded to search her vehicle, confiscating her laptop and cellphone.

The APSP was founded in 1972, developing out of the black nationalist and student radical movements of the 1960s. The party was founded on a platform of self-determination for Africans and African Americans and reparations for slavery. Along with a broad swathe of left-wing organizations, it became a target of repression by the US government under COINTELPRO. The APSP notes on its website that during this period, Yeshitela was constantly being imprisoned.

Yeshitela acknowledges having attended an AGMR conference in 2014, where he met Ionov. This is entirely legal and constitutionally protected political activity.

He flatly rejects any suggestion that he or the APSP received money from, let alone carried out orders on behalf of, Ionov or any Russian official.

They have accused us of taking money from Russia, Yeshitela stated at a news conference on July 29. Weve never taken [money] from the Russian government. But Im not saying that because Im morally opposed from taking money from Russians or anyone else who wants to support the struggles for Black people. ... Dont tell us that we cant have friends that you dont like.

He accused the US government of seeking to use the APSP as a pawn in its proxy war with Russia.

The unsubstantiated allegation that opponents of the war are co-conspirators with a foreign power are intended to bolster the phantom of a Russian bogeyman in the public consciousness. The escalating military aggression by the US against Russia and China is already being accompanied by increasing repression and an attempt to criminalize left-wing opposition to the unpopular war.

The Biden administration is intensifying the neo-McCarthyite anti-Russia fearmongering that has been a staple of the US political establishment, and particularly the Democratic Party, over the past 15 years.

This was, and remains, the focus of the Democratic Partys opposition to Trumpdeemed insufficiently aggressive toward Moscownot his fascistic contempt for constitutional and democratic norms and his dictatorial agenda.

The anti-Russia campaign includes the censorship by social media corporations with intimate ties to the military and intelligence agencies, such as Google, of left-wing and anti-war websites, including the World Socialist Web Site.

The targeting of the APSP in the context of a rising tide of working class struggle and opposition to the imperialist proxy war against Russia in Ukraine is preparation for a direct confrontation with the working class itself.

The Socialist Equality Party and the WSWS have fundamental political differences with the APSP. Despite these differences, we condemn the state attack on the organization and its members and demand the withdrawal of the Justice Departments allegations against it.
Travis McMichael and his father Gregory McMichael were both given life sentences on Monday by a US district judge in Georgia for their conviction on federal hate crime charges in connection with their role in the murder of 25-year-old African American jogger Ahmaud Arbery in February 2020.

Travis McMichael looks on during the sentencing phase of his state criminal trial at the Glynn County Courthouse in Brunswick, Ga., on Jan. 7, 2022. [AP Photo/Stephen B. Morton]

A third man, William Roddie Bryan, was sentenced to 35 years also for hate crime by Judge Lisa Godbey Wood for assisting the McMichaels in hunting down and shooting Arbery in the Satilla Shores neighborhood near Brunswick, Georgia, a coastal town about 80 miles south of Savannah.

The hate crime sentences will be served by the three men concurrently with the sentences they received in state court in Georgia for murdering Arbery. This means that the federal and state sentences will be served at the same time.

On February 23, 2020, Arbery was jogging through the residential neighborhood when father and son McMichael armed themselves, got in their truck, chased him down and cornered him. Travis McMichael exited the pickup truck with his shotgun drawn, confronted Arbery and fired three times, fatally striking the young man twice in the chest. Gregory McMichael looked on from the bed of the pickup with his handgun drawn.

Seeing the McMichaels give chase, Bryan had jumped into his own truck and helped the other two block the path of Arbery and then recorded the shooting on his smartphone. This video became critical evidence in proving that Arbery was pursued and murdered and not, as the McMichaels had maintained, shot in self-defense.

The three men, who are white, were convicted by a jury in the federal district court last February. Travis McMichael, 36, and Gregory McMichael, 66, were found guilty of interference with rightsa hate crimeand also attempted kidnapping and weapon use charges.

Travis was found guilty of using, carrying, brandishing and firing his Remington shotgun during a crime of violence and Gregory was found guilty of using, carrying and brandishing a .357 Magnum revolver during a crime of violence. Bryan was also convicted on the interference with rights and attempted kidnapping charges. His sentence was less, the judge said, because he did not use a weapon and turned over the video to law enforcement that he took of the fatal shooting.

In convicting the men of interfering with the rights of Arbery, a black man, the jury agreed that the McMichaels were motivated to kill him because of his race and color. The two men were also sentenced to 20 years each for the kidnapping charge to be served concurrently. Travis McMichael received an additional 10-year sentence for the weapons charge and Gregory McMichael received an additional seven years for the weapons charge, both to be served consecutively.

At the time of their federal convictions, the men had previously been found guilty of murder in state court in November and already sentenced to life terms. The McMichaels sentence in Georgia was imposed without the possibility of parole while Bryans state sentence included parole eligibility.

Ahmaud Arberys family spoke both before and after Judge Wood imposed the sentences on Monday. Arberys mother Wanda Cooper-Jones asked the judge to give Travis McMichael the maximum possible sentence under the law. My son was shot not one time, not two times, but three times. Your honor, I feel every shot that was fired every day, she said.

Speaking to reporters after the hearing, Cooper-Jones responded to the apology given by Gregory McMichael before he was sentenced. She said, Being the person that I am, I think now he realizes he made some horrible decisions back in February [2020]. Unfortunately, his apology doesnt bring back my son, but I do accept the apology.

Also, after the sentencing, Arberys father, Marcus Arbery Sr., said, They asked for mercy. They didnt give him no mercy that day. That February 23, that sunny hot day, they didnt give him no mercy. They didnt even give him a chance to finish his run. And you asking for mercy? He added that they deserved to rot in state prison. You killed him because he was a black man and you hate black people, he said. You deserve no mercy.

In obtaining a guilty verdict from the jury on the interference with rights charges, federal prosecutors proved that the men killed Arbery because of his race by showing roughly two dozen text messages and social media posts in which Travis McMichael and Bryan used slurs and made racist comments about African Americans.

Attorneys for the McMichaels argued before the judge that their clients should be kept in federal custody and not sent to a Georgia state prison to serve their sentences. Travis McMichaels lawyer said that for him to be sent to state prison would be a back door death penalty because of the threat of vigilante justice he would face there as a publicly reviled defendant.

The lawyer for Gregory McMichael made a similar request for federal custody, although it was presented for health reasons.

The prosecution opposed the McMichaels requests on the grounds that the court that issues its sentence first takes precedence. Judge Wood denied the motions, saying that she had neither the authority nor the inclination to override the rules.

While much of the campaign to demand justice for Ahmaud Arbery and his family has been focused on the blatant racism that motivated his killers, the case has exposed some of the normal functions of the American criminal justice system.

First of all, members of the Glynn County Police Department (GCPD) arrived on the scene soon after the shooting of Arbery, but no arrests were made of the McMichaels for more than two months. Both the Brunswick District Attorney Jackie Johnson and the Waycross District Attorney George Barnhill told the GCPD not to make any arrests.

It has now come to light that Gregory McMichael held at least 16 phone conversations with the former Brunswick DA Johnson in the immediate aftermath of the shooting. On the day of the shooting, the elder McMichael left a voice message for the DA asking her to call him back because, my son and I have been involved in a shooting and I need some advice right away.

It was not until the video of the shooting was posted online by Bryan in early May that the facts of what happened to Arbery in the Satilla Shores neighborhood could be seen and the McMichaels were arrested.

The primary reason that Gregory McMichael was able to rely upon both the Brunswick and Waycross prosecutors offices not to arrest him was because he had been a police officer in Glynn County between 1982 and 1989 and he was an investigator for the Brunswick DA from 1995 to 2019. It has been established that Gregory McMichael had been involved in an investigation of a shoplifting charge against Arbery in 2018 which led to an extension of the young mans probation.

It is clear that immediately following the shooting of Arbery, Gregory McMichael began working his contacts in the law enforcement communityjust like a police officer who attempts to cover his tracks in a case of brutality or murderto concoct a narrative that Arbery was responsible for his own death.

The state and federal convictions and sentencing of the men who killed Ahmaud Arbery are part of a pattern of recent police murder cases where the truth of what happened came to light from smartphone video that was captured by bystanders or witnesses. The murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, for example, would have been swept under the rug as the result of a medical incident during police interaction, had it not been for the video captured by teenager Darnella Frazier, who then shared it on social media.
Work at SHAP or another auto plant? We want to hear from you. Contact the WSWS by filling out the form at the end of the article to tell us what health and safety conditions are like in your factory. All submissions will be kept anonymous.

Shift change at SHAP [Photo: WSWS]

The first case of monkeypox has been reported at Stellantis Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) north of Detroit, a source has told the World Socialist Web Site Autoworker Newsletter. No official announcement has been made by either management or the United Autoworkers.

The infection was announced in team meetings last week by management, but the company has taken no measures to quarantine potentially exposed workers or otherwise block transmission in the giant factory. The case took place in General Assembly, one of the most crowded areas in the sprawling plant, which employs over 7,000 people.

The report of a monkeypox case at Sterling Heights Assembly poses not just a risk to the 7,000 Stellantis employees who work there, but to the wider population in the vast surrounding metropolitan area. The disease can spread through skin-to-skin contact as well as aerosols. It can spread through contaminated fabric and surfaces, and the virus can remain alive for weeks outside the body. Contrary to the claim that monkeypox is a threat mainly to gay men, past studies indicate that over 40 percent of infections occur among women.

As for the claim that monkeypox is not a serious illness, studies from Africa where the disease is endemic show it has a case fatality rate similar to that of COVID-19. Some 10 percent of those infected require hospitalization due to the severe symptoms, including excruciating pain. The virus, which is related to smallpox although less deadly, can cause severe lesions on any part of the body, including the face, and can cause blindness or asphyxiation. Permanent and disfiguring scars can result.

Monkeypox

The report is another worrisome sign that monkeypox is spreading widely in the Detroit area. Detroit proper reported 17 cases as of August 7. That brings to 50 the number of cases in the metro area, including Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The state of Michigan reports 72 cases in total.

Given the lack of testing and monitoring, these numbers are likely a vast undercount. The Biden administration only declared a public health emergency August 4, almost three months after the first case was reported in the US. As with the initial reports of COVID-19 infections in early 2020, the US government and public health agencies have sought to downplay the seriousness of the situation and have promoted misleading and false information.

Michigans chief medical executive Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian said in a television interview Sunday that she was confident the state can still limit transmission of monkeypox. However, given the disastrous response of the authorities to COVID-19, no one should accept this.

Likewise, it is highly probable that there are far more cases in the auto plants than the single reported case at SHAP. For more than two years, management and the United Auto Workers have systematically covered up the spread of COVID-19 in the plants, forcing workers to rely on word of mouth. Factories and other large workplaces, together with schools, are the primary driver of outbreaks in the state of Michigan according to official figures.

With the reopening of public schools in a few weeks the danger is multiplied. Already a number of children have been infected with monkeypox, and that number is sure to rise. This takes place under conditions where the Detroit Community Public Schools and other school systems around the US are lifting even limited COVID-19 safety protocols.

Management and the UAW have eliminated all precautions related to COVID-19, despite the high number of cases and deaths, with over 65,000 cases and 500 deaths in Michigan in July according to Worldometer. Now they are trying to downplay, and in fact ignore, the threat posed by monkeypox. As with COVID-19, the main concern of Stellantis and their UAW stooges is to prevent any disruption to production in order to keep profits rolling in, health and safety be damned.

Workers should recall that in March 2020, temporary lockdowns in the auto industry and other limited safety measures were only taken after workers carried out wildcat strikes at SHAP and other auto plants in defiance of the UAW.

As with COVID-19, the insatiable demand of Wall Street for profits makes a rational response on the part of capitalist governments to the monkeypox emergency impossible. While an effective vaccine exists, there are only limited stocks, with the holder of the patent unable to ramp up production to the level needed and unwilling to relinquish its intellectual property rights to allow mass production and distribution of the vaccine in the US and globally.

Since testing for the virus is a slow and difficult process, contact tracing and isolation are critical for containment. However, employers will not permit workers the four-to-eight-week isolation period needed to clear the virus for infected or exposed individuals. That means that sick workers will face the choice of returning to the factory or office and infecting their coworkers, or confronting unemployment.

The spread of monkeypox alongside the as-yet uncontained COVID-19 pandemic are an indictment of the capitalist system. Despite enormous advances in medical science that make the elimination of deadly disease entirely feasible, the overriding concerns of big business block any effective action.

It is up to workers to take matters into their own hands through the building of rank-and-file factory and workplace safety committees, independent of the pro-management unions, to oversee and enforce safe conditions. Workers must insist on the right to a healthy workplace and effective measures of quarantine and contact tracing as well as the right to shut down production in case of an outbreak.
Send your statements opposing the NLRB ruling to the World Socialist Web Site by filling out the form at the bottom of this article. All submissions will be kept anonymous.

Warrior Met miners picket [Photo by UMWA]

The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has ordered the United Mine Workers of America to pay Warrior Met Coal $13.3 million for expenses incurred by the company over the course of the more than year-long miners strike in Brookwood, Alabama. In addition, the union must also pay $300,000 to individuals affiliated with Warrior Met for vehicular damages.

The World Socialist Web Site condemns this reactionary decision, and calls on workers everywhere to mobilize to oppose it and demand its reversal. The aim of the ruling is to make an example of the striking miners and criminalize strike action.

The price of metallurgical coal dropped precipitously last month, which no doubt played into the NLRBs decision in Warrior Mets favor. Last year, though, as prices per short ton soared worldwide, President Cecil Roberts of the UMWA refused to press the advantage by calling out other union mines, including those adjacent to Warrior Met. This allowed Warrior Met to finish the year with the highest profits it had seen in two yearsin the middle of a protracted strike.

In its July 22 ruling, the NLRB stated that the picketing miners must repay Warrior Met for increased security costs, repair costs, and loss of revenue from the idled mines. Roberts denounced the ruling as outrageous and stated that the union would not pay a penny of the fines.

Is it now the policy of the federal government that unions be required to pay a companys losses as a consequence of their members exercising their rights as working people? Roberts said in a statement. This is outrageous and effectively negates workers right to strike. It cannot stand.

While it is absolutely true that this ruling is an attack on workers right to strike, Roberts indignation, like most of his public antics, is a charade. NLRB Press Secretary Kayla Blado said in a statement that the NLRB had approved an agreement predicated upon the unions promise to repay Warrior Met for strike misconduct. Blado told the press that the NLRB is simply now assessing those costs.

If there is not agreement with the regions ultimate conclusion, the region will commence a proceeding before an administrative law judge where the parties can present arguments and evidence about what each considers to be appropriate damages, Blado stated.

To the extent that there is any real content behind Roberts denunciation of the ruling, it is the fact that the ruling will take a huge chunk out of the UMWAs $180 million in assets. This sum of money is financed by workers dues money, but used by Roberts and the bureaucracy to finance their own exorbitant, six-figure salaries. Meanwhile, the Warrior Met strikers have been left to subsist on only $300 in strike pay.

The first significant miners strike in a quarter century began on April 1, 2021, when 1,100 miners rejected the UMWAs tentative agreement with Warrior Met. The agreement did not fundamentally alter the terms of the hated 2016 contract, which cut miners wages by as much as six dollars per hour while increasing their out-of-pocket health expenditures. In addition, they were forced to work between six and seven days a week under a draconian four-strike attendance policy.

The union had told them in 2016 that their choices were to either accept the contract or lose their jobs; they would recoup their losses, the UMWA vowed, when the contract came up for renewal in five years. When the union handed them a contract that only increased their wages by $1.50 an hour over five years, with bonuses tied to production, only 46 miners voted against striking.

Since then, miners have picketed under increasingly hostile conditions which recall the bitter struggles by coal miners a century ago. Scabs and company administrators have struck pickets and their wives with their cars, putting at least one miner in the hospital. Multiple videos show clear instances of vehicular assault in plain view of the Alabama State Troopers tasked with keeping the pickets safe; in one video, a state trooper tells outraged pickets I didnt see anything after watching a scab veer onto the shoulder of the road to strike a miners wife.

Last August, after reviewing these videos, the NLRB dismissed all charges related to vehicular assault, claiming that there was insufficient evidence that any pickets were struck. Earlier this year, a miner told the WSWS that Warrior Met had denied the miners unused paid time off and vacation days. He brought this up to union leadership, only to be told to take it up individually with the NLRBthe organization that had already ruled against both miners and objective truth.

The scope of the strike has been limited by one injunction after another; pickets are not allowed within 500 feet of mine entrances. They are allowed to picket only in front of corporate headquarters. Miners must park their vehicles over a mile away from the line. They ride to the line in buses by the handful and strike for a few hours until the next handful is bused in to take their place. They are told that this last measure is for their protectionwere that true, it would be the singular instance of the states consideration for miners safety.

In March, an explosion at a natural gas line owned by Warrior Met signaled a dangerous new stage of the hostilities. Although Alabamas mines and natural gas lines are notoriously run-down and poorly monitored, the explosion immediately drew federal law enforcement and Alabama state government into close cooperation with Warrior Met. The Federal Bureau of Investigation directed all press inquiries concerning the explosion to Warrior Met, who framed it as an act of sabotage and offered a reward for information in connection to the explosion.

In the face of these attacks, the UMWA bureaucracy has sought to direct miners attention towards pointless appeals to the company and the government. It sent miners to Manhattan on fruitless protests against BlackRock, which owns the majority of Warrior Mets stock and benefits directly from the miners mistreatment. It has told miners to appeal to the Alabama justice system that has handed down one injunction after another in Warrior Mets favor. Larry Spencer, UMWA Vice President who launched a violent assault against a group of young socialists at a rally whom he mistakenly believed to be with the World Socialist Web Site, went to Montgomery, Alabama to grovel to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, which refuses to intervene in attacks against miners. He appealed to Governor Kay Ivey, whose policies attack workers on multiple fronts.

In February, at a Senate Finance Committee Hearing on Private Equity, Roberts meekly asked extreme-right Alabama Senator and Trump supporter Tommy Tuberville to visit with the striking miners and consider their plight. Tuberville, who had posed for photos with January 6 coup plotters just prior to their attack on the capital, predictably snapped back with nonsense about getting [Alabamians] back to work.

The NLRB announced its latest decision in favor of Warrior Met only six days after the Biden Administration announced the appointment of a Presidential Emergency Board to intervene in a national contract dispute in the railroad industry. The move, which illegalized in advance a strike which railroaders voted 99.5 percent to authorize, was openly campaigned for by the railroad unions.

Like the rest of the AFL-CIO, the UMWA functions as an adjunct of the Democratic Party and the government as a whole. Biden has prepared a spot for the UMWA on his Transition from Coal scheme, which will serve to maintain the financial interests of the UMWA while former miners are sent into poorly paid careers after their mines are shut down.

This shows that the NLRB fine cannot be opposed through a fight by the bureaucracy, which is joined at the hip with the pro-corporate two-party system and relies upon it for institutional support. Instead, what is required is a movement of the rank and file in defense of the right to strike, independent of and in opposition to the union bureaucracy.
Macgregor: America Doesn't Have Anyone That Qualifies As A Stateman, We Are Dealing With A Group Of "Posers"

https://www.realclearpolitics.com/video/2022/08/01/macgregor_america_doesnt_have_anyone_that_qualifies_as_a_stateman_we_are_dealing_with_a_group_of_posers.html

Posted By Ian Schwartz; August 1, 2022

MACGREGOR: We have to admit this is probably the most reckless and irresponsible administration in living memory. We don't have anyone that qualifies as a statesman. Statesmanship involves advancing American interests at the least cost of the American people.



None of that is in play here. We are dealing with a group of posers. People who are posturing, posturing is not statesmanship. The American people need to understand something that no one has bothered to tell them. That during World War II, Taiwan was the unsinkable aircraft carrier of the Imperial Japanese armed forces. All the major invasions of China were launched from Taiwan. Beijing will not allow Taiwan to become a garrison state for American armed forces or Japanese armed forces or any foreign power.



If they think that we are going to ally ourselves with Taiwan, if they think we are going to intervene to defend that island in the event of a dispute then we will be at war with China for the reasons that I just outlined. And we are not prepared for that.



We are grossly overstretched. We don't have the logistical infrastructure and frankly it is an old adage that everyone should remember.



A ship's a fool to fight a fort. You have to fight China from the sea. We can't win that. China can observe everything we throw at it and the Chinese are happy to sit there, let us travel thousands of miles to reach them and then sink us...



The Biden administration and its predecessors treated everything that the Russian government said for the last 15 years about Ukraine with complete contempt. They are repeating that process.



We see how well that's worked in Ukraine. The Russians were always serious. Hundreds of thousands of lives have been lost in this war in Ukraine that we should have acted quickly to stop and now we are provoking the Chinese over an issue that is at least strategically important to them.

Ret. Col. Douglas Macgregor in an interview with Tucker Carlson on Monday said "posers" are in charge of America's foreign policy and lamented the lack of statesmen that advance the interests of America. Macgregor argued that the U.S. is not prepared and the military does not have the "logistical infrastructure" for war with China."We are grossly overstretched," Macgregor said. "We don't have the logistical infrastructure and frankly it is an old adage that everyone should remember.""A ship's a fool to fight a fort. You have to fight China from the sea. We can't win that. China can observe everything we throw at it and the Chinese are happy to sit there, let us travel thousands of miles to reach them and then sink us," Macgregor said.
Chinese are not like us. They think carefully. They consider all the options. For them the use of force is the last resort. But once they decide to use it, they go all the way to the end to be successful.

----Douglas Mcgregor

Most Americans Have Cold Views of China. Heres What They Think About China, In Their Own Words

Negative views of China have increased substantially since 2018. Today, 67% of Americans have cold feelings toward China on a feeling thermometer, rating the country less than 50 on a 0 to 100 scale. This is up from just 46% who said the same in 2018. The intensity of these negative feelings has also increased: The share who say they have very cold feelings toward China (0-24 on the same scale) has roughly doubled from 23% to 47%.

But what do Americans think specifically about China beyond a number that represents their opinion of the country on a feeling thermometer? To understand this, we asked them an open-ended question: Whats the first thing you think about when you think about China? We analyzed the first five references in each response and found that Americans rarely brought up the Chinese people or the countrys long history and culture. Instead, they focused primarily on the Chinese government  including its policies or how it behaves internationally  as well as its economy. Human rights, Chinas economy and the countrys political system were referenced most by Americans, coming up among 20%, 19% and 17% of respondents, respectively.

While these broad categories are informative, highlighting the frequency of certain topics and themes, the nuance evident in many responses is important in its own right. Below you can explore what Americans say is top of mind when it comes to China, based on the feeling thermometer score that they gave the country.
Andrew Van Dam at The Washington Post recently conducted research using Airbnb listings as his primary data. He analyzed how the listings described the properties on offer, with the ultimate goals of (1) determining how to draw boundaries around what's considered "the South," and (2) understanding what "words and ideas" make "Southern culture unique." I'm particularly interested in this research because I was born in Georgia, spent almost my entire childhood in Louisiana, went to college in Mississippi, and then went back to Georgia for graduate school. I feel like I know something about "the South."

Van Dam first searched the listings to see if they mentioned "markers of Southern culture such as 'Southern charm,' 'Southern belle,' or 'Southern hospitality.'" Using this data, not surprisingly, Van Dam's research revealed that "the most Southern states in the Union" are Mississippi, Alabama, South Carolina, Georgia, and Louisiana. The next most Southern are Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, Arkansas, and Virginia. And finally, the states that still count as "the South" but are less Southern than the ones already listed are Florida, West Virginia, Texas, and the District of Columbia.

Next, he sought to understand "the most Southern things" that the listings mentioned. He explains that to meet the criteria for inclusion, something had to have been mentioned in at least 200 listings. What did he find?

The result shows a South still defined by the legacy of slavery. The two most Southern words in our entire database are "antebellum" and "plantation," words deeply tied to the Confederacy and a romanticized vision of an era defined by the mass enslavement of Black people. ("Confederate" also ranks among the top 15 most Southern words.)

Here are the top 15 most Southern words used in the Airbnb listings: antebellum, plantations, alligators, dolphins, hurricanes, armadillos, stilts, Baptists, redfish, y'all, Elvis, Confederate, shrimp, gameday, and Appalachian.

I'm surprised that crawfish, boudin, and gumbo didn't make the list, but maybe that's just my Louisiana bias showing!
Former Vice President Mike Pence, the target of the Trump-led team of trained insurrectionists who wanted to assassinate him at the Capitol on J6, paid obsequious fealty to the dictator of Christofacistland in a Twitter thread today:

"I share the deep concern of millions of Americans over the unprecedented search of the personal residence of President Trump," he wrote "No former President of the United States has ever been subject to a raid of their personal residence in American history.

"After years where FBI agents were found to be acting on political motivation during our administration, the appearance of continued partisanship by the Justice Department must be addressed.

"Yesterday's action undermines public confidence in our system of justice and Attorney General Garland must give a full accounting to the American people as to why this action was taken and he must do so immediately.
The post Arctic Monkeys Play First Show Since 2019 in Istanbul: Video + Setlist appeared first on Consequence.

Arctic Monkeys performed their first concert since before the pandemic in Istanbul, Turkey on Tuesday, August 9th.

During the first of two nights at Zorlu Center PSM, the band played a career-spanning, 21-song set. It included classics like Do I Wanna Know?, Brainstorm, and R U Mine?, along with other hits like Whyd You Only Call Me When Youre High?, I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor, and Teddy Picker. While Alex Turner and co. didnt debut any new music, they did break out Potion Approaching for the first time in over a decade.

For the next few weeks, Arctic Monkeys will play headlining shows in Europe ahead of headlining spots at festivals like Primavera Sound Los Angeles and Life is Beautiful Festival in Las Vegas. In November, theyll appear at Primavera Sounds trio of South American festivals in Brasil, Chile, and Argentina before heading over to Australia for a run of dates; grab your tickets here.

Watch fan-shot videos from the concert and see the setlist below.

Back in May, Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders teased the bands upcoming album, saying it kinda picks up where 2018s Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino left off. There are riffs in there and [its] a bit more uptempo, even though its not loud, he added. Its hard to explain! The soundbite came after Helders told BBC in November 2021 that the LP was pretty much ready to go, aside from a few bits to finish off.

Arctic Monkeys perform Do I Wanna Know? tonight in Istanbul, Turkey.pic.twitter.com/gjCAS37y5M  Arctic Monkeys Tour (@monkeystour) August 9, 2022

do me a favour you will always be famous #amturkey #amistanbul pic.twitter.com/zSKxCWCFsU  nat | AM DAY (@cthfireside) August 9, 2022

Arctic Monkeys look fucking incredible pic.twitter.com/rSrmPdhCZv  Liam (@amnotliam) August 9, 2022

Arctic Monkeys performing 505 tonight in Istanbul pic.twitter.com/iQpW62kw8n  Mainly Oasis (@mainlyoasis) August 9, 2022

Arctic Monkeys performing Whyd You Only Call Me When You're High tonight in Istanbul!pic.twitter.com/YHLqrGYIJ0  Arctic Monkeys Tour (@monkeystour) August 9, 2022

Arctic Monkeys Setlist

Do I Wanna Know?

Brianstorm

Snap Out of It

Crying Lightning

Teddy Picker

Potion Approaching (First time live since 2011)

Whyd You Only Call Me When Youre High?

Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino

Arabella

Fireside

Pretty Visitors

Library Pictures

Dont Sit Down Cause Ive Moved Your Chair

The View From the Afternoon

Do Me a Favour

One Point Perspective

One for the Road

505

Cornerstone

I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor

R U Mine?

Story continues

Arctic Monkeys Play First Show Since 2019 in Istanbul: Video + Setlist

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Biyi Bandele, the renowned Nigerian novelist, playwright and filmmaker behind 2013s Half of a Yellow Sun and upcoming film The Kings Horseman, has died. He was 54.

Bandele died on Sunday in Lagos, Nigeria, according to a Facebook post from his daughter, Temi Bandele. A cause of death was not given.

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Biyi was a prodigiously talented writer and filmmaker, as well as a loyal friend and beloved father, Temi writes in the post. He was a storyteller to his bones, with an unblinking perspective, singular voice and wisdom which spoke boldly through all of his art, in poetry, novels, plays and on screen. He told stories which made a profound impact and inspired many all over the world. His legacy will live on through his work.

Bandele had recently finished his latest film entitled The Kings Horseman. Inspired by Nigerian Nobel Prize-winning writer Wole Soyinkas anti-colonial play Death and the Kings Horseman, the drama is set to have its world premiere at the Toronto Film Festival next month. The Yoruba-language film was produced by Mo Abudus EbonyLife Films for Netflix.

Speaking to Variety, Abudu described Bandeles death as totally unexpected and a real shock to us all.

He was over the moon about Elesin Oba, The Kings Horseman premiering at TIFF, and of course we were all planning to be there, she said, noting that the film was beloved by Bandele more so than any of the other projects he had worked on with us.

He knew the source material well and was so excited when he heard about our selection at TIFF, she added. Its so unfortunate that he will not be there to see the world enjoy a piece of his work that I know he was very proud of and so passionate about.

Story continues

Bandele also co-directed this years Blood Sisters for Netflix. The streamers first Nigerian original series follows friends Sarah and Kemi as they are forced to go on the run after a wealthy groom disappears during his engagement party. Netflix paid tribute to Bandele via a Twitter post, saying, May he rest in power.

Biyi Bandeles passing is a monumental loss to Nigerias film and creative industry, the post reads. He will be remembered as a powerhouse who made some of the finest films out of Africa.

Bandele was born in 1967 in the small town in Nigeria called Kafanchan. He studied drama at Obafemi Awolowo University before he left Nigeria at age 22 for London. There, Bandele found a publisher and launched his career as a playwright with the Royal Court Theatre. On top of his extensive work on the stage, the creative also wrote screenplays for radio dramas and television. Eventually, the BBC picked up one of Bandeles teleplays for its Screenplay anthology series and attached Danny Boyle  the future director of Slumdog Millionaire and 127 Hours  to direct.

In 2013, Bandele made his directorial debut with Half of a Yellow Sun, an adaptation of the 2006 novel by Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. The film starred Chiwetel Ejiofor, Thandiwe Newton and Anika Noni Rose in a family drama set in 1960s Nigeria.

Bandele also helmed the 2015 romantic drama Fifty and several episodes of the African-set MTV series Shuga.

Christopher Vourlias contributed to this report.

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San Joaquin District Attorney Tori Verber Salazar speaks during a news conference at the DA's Office in downtown Stockton on Tuesday about the upcoming state parole board hearing for Anthony Waiters. Waiters, who was convicted in 2010 of torturing a 16-year-old boy, is up for parole after serving 11 years. Verber Salazar, who is against granting him parole, called for Stockton citizens to write in to the DA's website to also protest Waiters' release.

A man convicted in 2010 of torturing a teenager imprisoned at a Tracy home could be released as early as this month following a decision by the California parole board, according to the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office.

"This is not a man who should ever be by children," District Attorney Tori Verber Salazar said at a news conference Tuesday opposing the release.

From our archives: Anthony Waiters found guilty in torture of Tracy teenager

Acts of torture

San Joaquin County Deputy District Attorney Angela Hayes speaks during a news conference at the DA's Office in downtown Stockton on Tuesday.

Anthony Waiters was found guilty on Nov. 23, 2010, of participating in the beating, cutting and burning of a then-16-year-old boy who was chained to a fireplace in the home of Waiters' neighbor, Michael Schumacher, for a year beginning in 2007.

Waiters was a youth football coach and mentor prior to the abuse, according to prosecutors.

The victim, Kyle Ramirez, had been in the custody of Sacramento County Child Protective Services due to mistreatment by Caren Ramirez, one of three defendants charged in addition to Waiters. Caren Ramirez's daughter abducted Kyle Ramirez and returned him to her mother.

Caren Ramirez later took him to the Schumachers' house on Tennis Lane in Tracy in August 2007.

At the house, Ramirez was chained to a fireplace and denied food, clothing, access to a shower and the ability to attend school, according to prosecutors. He was burned, struck with a baseball bat as well as with defendants' fists, cut with knives and doused with lighter fluid, among other horrific acts of abuse, prosecutors said.

Waiters personally sliced Ramirez's arm multiple times with a knife and punched the teenager while he was chained  in one instance wearing boxing gloves to protect his own hands.

Ramirez suffered third-degree burns after he fell unconscious onto the fireplace grate during one assault, prosecutors said.

In December 2008, Ramirez discovered how to unchain himself and fled into the backyard, using a trampoline to launch himself over a retaining wall and running into an In-Shape gym located behind the home for help.

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After his escape, and during Waiters' trial, Ramirez lived with his aunt and uncle, Sydney and Ralph Perry.

"(Kyle Ramirez is) a courageous young man whose journey was unimaginable," Verber Salazar said Tuesday.

'Callous' and 'disgusting'

Anthony Waiters is escorted from the courtroom after his sentencing on Feb. 28, 2011.

Waiters was found guilty of nine felony counts including torture, aggravated mayhem, child abuse and false imprisonment. Yet Waiters insisted upon his innocence throughout his trial.

"I tell you today, I did not commit these crimes," he said at his sentencing in 2011. "(Ramirez) said I hated him. I did not hate him."

From our archives: Innocence protests can't spare Anthony Waiters as judge sentences him to prison

Waiters received 11 years, eight months of prison time for the bulk of the charges, and an additional sentence of seven years to life for the torture conviction.

The three other defendants  Schumacher, his wife Kelly Lau, and Caren Ramirez  took plea deals for state prison sentences of 30, 33 and 34 years respectively.

But Waiters has since admitted to abusing Ramirez, calling his conduct "callous" and "disgusting" at a March parole hearing, according to a letter from Gov. Gavin Newsom to the California Board of Parole Hearings.

Waiters told the board his actions were motivated by "alcohol, unresolved grief, companions that didn't have my best interest at heart," according to a letter from the DA's Office opposing his parole.

Waiters was also diagnosed with a personality disorder, the letter said.

In March, the board granted Waiters parole, according to a statement by the DA's office.

'They got it wrong'

Tracy Police Chief Sekou Millington speaks during a news conference at the DA's office in downtown Stockton on Tuesday.

The governor has requested that the parole board review its decision at a hearing scheduled for Aug. 16.

"(Waiters) continues to demonstrate profound deficits in insight into what led him to participate in an astonishingly inhumane crime, the ongoing torture of a vulnerable young victim," Newsom said in the letter.

The Tracy Police Department, which investigated Ramirez's case, as well as the DA's Office have also opposed Waiters' parole.

Tracy Police Chief Sekou Millington on Tuesday said witnesses in the case have expressed concern about receiving threats if Waiters is released.

Ramirez himself has also expressed opposition to Waiters' release to the governor, Deputy District Attorney Angela Hayes, who prosecuted the case, said Tuesday.

"I'm not faulting the parole board in general," Hayes said. "But in this case, they got it wrong."

If the decision is affirmed, Waiters could be released as early as Aug. 19, according to the DA's office.

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: Anthony Waiters, man convicted in torture of Tracy teen, could be paroled
Comedy Central

On Monday nights Daily Show, Trevor Noah used a good portion of his opening monologue to focus on this past weekends special tribute to the imprisoned Jan. 6 rioters at CPAC in Texas that he jokingly described as very moving and not at all hilarious.

The host was talking about a bizarre performance art piece in which an actor in an orange jumpsuit sat in a fake prison cell and openly wept to bring the plight of the insurrectionists to life for the conservative conference attendees. Among them was Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) who entered the cage to pray with him.

OK, wait, wait, wait, Noah said. Help me understand the logic here. Marjorie Taylor Greene is praying for a fake prisoner? Who is this lady? Emphasizing that this is a person who is actually part of running your country, he added, She must have the hardest time at Broadway shows. They killed Hamilton!

In Greenes defense, the host said the actor must have really committed to the role, shedding real tears for hour upon hour. Which, in a way, is a powerful performance art, he said. Because isnt that what conservatism has turned into in America? Its just people in MAGA hats acting like theyre victims? Noah mock-cried as he said, Theres fewer white people now than there used to bebut we still have all the power

John Oliver Gleefully Mocks Alex Jones Trial Text-Message Screw-Up

And as if this story couldnt get any crazier, Noah then revealed that the actor playing the prisoner was an actual Jan. 6 rioter who pleaded guilty and avoided incarceration by snitching on the other rioters.

So, yeah, just so you understand, this dude is pretending to be a prisoner that he helped send to prison! he added. This is wild!

For more, listen and subscribe to The Last Laugh podcast.

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Burberry Closing Party For Anne Imhof's Exhibition 'Natures Mortes' - Credit: Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images For Burberry

Ezra Miller is facing a felony burglary charge for allegedly stealing some bottles of booze. On Monday, Vermont State Police revealed that the Flash actor allegedly broke into someones house back in May and took several bottles of alcohol from it.

As a result of an investigation that included surveillance videos and statements, probable cause was found to charge Ezra M. Miller with the offense of felony burglary into an unoccupied dwelling, the police statement read, which described how Miller allegedly entered the house around 6 p.m. on May 1.

More from Rolling Stone

A local source tells Rolling Stone that police visited Millers Vermont farm on Friday evening, Aug. 5, and spoke with their mother Marta Miller for a length of time before leaving. On Sunday, Aug. 7, Miller was issued a citation to appear in court, according to the police report. Hes set to face the Vermont Superior Court on Sept. 26 for arraignment.

Miller has been living in Vermont for some time. A recent Rolling Stone investigation found that Miller has been keeping a mother and her three children on his 96-acre farm in the state. Video footage from April reviewed by Rolling Stone appeared to show at least eight assault weapons, rifles, and handguns lying around the living room, with some weapons propped up next to a pile of stuffed animals.

I got a bad feeling in my stomach, the father of the three children living on the property told Rolling Stone. I do want to go get my kids, they mean the fucking world to me. The childrens mother, however, said the ranch has been a healing haven for her and her children.

In June, two parents filed an order of protection on behalf of their child Gibson, 18, claiming Miller supplied Gibson with LSD and was grooming them. [Theyre] not only having mental health issues but theres a predator taking advantage of [them] at the same time, Gibsons mother told Rolling Stone. (Gibson accused their parents of emotional and psychological manipulation.)

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Earlier this year, the actor was arrested twice in Hawaii for disorderly conduct. He was accused of stealing a passport and wallet, and threatening a couple after they sang Shallow at a karaoke bar. He was also arrested on April 19 after allegedly throwing a chair at a woman after being asked to leave a private home.

Additional reporting by Cheyenne Roundtree

Best of Rolling Stone

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The Mental Load of Being A Sandwich Generation Caregiver

Parents | Zoe Hansen

Writer and musician Tanuja Desai-Hidier lives in a multigenerational home in Maine with her aging parents and two teenage daughters. Between online schooling and "hematologists, nephrologists, cardiologists, rheumatologists, dermatologists, gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, labs, and all kinds of stuff," nearly everything falls on Desai-Hidier. "Nothing can be hidden from me, because I'm managing everything," she says. "On my bluer days, I feel extremely squeezed and scattered at the same time."

When Katie Schlott's divorced mother was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease which left her in pain and fairly incapacitated, Schlott took charge of her care: In conjunction with lawyers, she sold her mother's house, applied for government assistance, and found her mother long-term care. "To say this was difficult is just an understatement," says Schlott, an Illinois-based mom of two. "But I am privileged. I could pay for people to help me figure out these systems. And so many people have to navigate it alone. It's so broken and so frustrating."

Seattle-based Olivia Chiong balances care at a distance: her mother, in Las Vegas, recently had a stroke. Chiong and her wife are in the process of obtaining guardianship of her mother, as well as power-of-attorney, so they can make hard decisions about the future of her care, while also raising two young children. "We flew there for five days, but because my kids are still in school, we had to come back," she says. "I'm trying to manage things from Seattle, trying to file court paperwork and figuring out, 'When do we go back? When will she need us?'"

Growing Numbers, Rising Anxiety

These stories are three of many. About a quarter of U.S. adults (23%) are now part of the so-called "sandwich generation," according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted in October 2021. These are a group of Americans who are caring for children under 18 and older relatives at the same time, providing hours of unpaid laborfrom transportation and doctor visits, to liaising with insurance companies, care facilities, and lawyers, while also dealing with the demands of being a parent.

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Being a multigenerational caregiver is a financial, logistical, and emotional challenge, especially in the absence of robust social supports. The U.S. has no nationwide paid parental leave policy and provides limited access to subsidized child care. Elder care is expensive and increasingly-complex; it's often a full-time job to navigate the bureaucracies of health care and finance. These systemic gaps are not accidental, and deeply rooted in capitalism and patriarchy: in the U.S., care work has long been thought of as the responsibility of the family, wrapped up in moral judgments of what it means to be a good parent or child. Furthermore, care work is highly gendered, and such feminized labor is discounted economically and devalued socially. "In America, we don't have a social safety net; we have mothers and we have women," says Angela Garbes, author of Essential Labor: Mothering as Social Change. This has been the story since the beginning of our country. We fall back on that because it's just ingrainedthat's what society has said is acceptable."

This burden of care is only expected to grow. The number of people who are 65 or older is projected to increase by 2050. Americans are having children later, and family size is shrinking.

What the Sandwich Generation Can Do

So what can caregivers do? Individually, those sandwiched between an aging parent and their own children should take time for themselves when possible, and lean on others. Care is a community function, says Garbes. "Building solidarity starts with sharing our stories and realizing, 'This work is very hard for me, but I'm not alone,'" she says. "Solidarity is in the everyday let-me-help-you community-level stuff. Every bit we do to help each other is important."

Jessica Stern, Ph.D., a postdoctoral researcher in psychology at the University of Virginia, concurs. Prioritize self-care, in the true sense of the wordsleeping, eating, drinking water, and, most importantly, being connected with others. "Emotional labor requires our whole being," she says. "It asks us to be emotionally regulated ourselves, to have emotional intelligence about other people, and to have a lot of self-control." Our species evolved through cooperation and intimate bonds in small communities, she explains, and close relationships are vital to sustaining mental health and sanity when caring for others. "I like the term 'fictive kin'a person who you consider part 'my people.' If you don't have somebody like that in your life, you should invest in creating a relationship like that."

Chiong lives the adage, "You can't take care of others if you're not taking care of yourself." She sees her therapist weekly. "Even if there's nothing to talk about, just having that support and knowing that every week I have a time where I can just talk and vent has been really helpful," Chiong says. "And making sure that I make time to do stuff that I care about and that I enjoy. That's the thing that allows me to keep going even though my life is going crazy."

Cultivating a new mindset has been helpful for Desai-Hidier. "A sense of humor, it's like a total gift for survival, and to see the joys," she says. "I get overwhelmed by the doctors and the portals and everything, but I don't want the alternative. I try to see the sandwich squeeze as an embrace. I want the older generation here. I want the younger generation here. There is a lot of stress, but there's also safety in that embrace."

Change Is Needed To Help the Sandwich Generation

But attitudes and systems have to change, experts say, especially because existing inequities burden marginalized people more. "That's not to say that a middle class family can't feel burnout, but it does mean that the stressors that are placed on women of color and families living in poverty are just much higher," Stern says.

Stern conceded that her exhortations to vote might sound "cheesy," or even futile, but it can be a real lever of power if wielded in community with others. "And between voting cycles, we need to be advocating for subsidized child care, elder care, paid parental leave, grandparental leave, and systems and structures that can sustain us better, like mental health care and couples counseling."

These asks are not radical, Garbes says. "They are human rights; we have normalized privatizing those things and not treating them as a public resource," she says. "We need to speak on those things. We need to name the ways that our country has failed us."
State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie came to the Buffalo area Monday to announce an infusion of state capital grant funding for major recreation projects in Amherst and the Town of Tonawanda.

Amherst was awarded $1 million in inclusive playground money that will go toward the construction of an ice rink, splash pad and playground  all fully handicap accessible  on the site of the future Central Park that is planned at the former Westwood Country Club. The Town of Tonawanda, meanwhile, was awarded $2 million for the addition of a handicap-accessible spray park that will include slides and other water features in Brighton Park.

In the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, Heastie said, Assembly members have seen an increase in requests from their constituents for more state funding to assist with local recreational projects and improving outdoor spaces.

"In 2020 and the beginning of 2021, for the most part, we were confined indoors and forced to communicate mostly through Zoom," Heastie said during a news conference at the Brighton pool, where he was joined by town officials and Assemblyman William Conrad.

"Coming out of Covid, we've got to have something that addresses the health and wellness of our community," said Town of Tonawanda Supervisor Joseph H. Emminger.

The splash park is expected to be completed by late 2023 and be operational by 2024. Emminger said he is hopeful the splash park, which is estimated to cost $20 million to build, will become a destination site not only for town residents but others in nearby communities.

"We want people from all over at least from the Northtowns and Niagara County, we want them to come to our splash park," said Emminger.

Town officials estimate the facility will take in $300,000 to $400,000 a year.

Meanwhile, in Amherst, Supervisor Brian Kulpa and town officials were joined by Assemblywoman Karen McMahon in Amherst Town Hall for the announcement of the $1 million state grant that will go toward construction of the Central Park project that includes the town and its partners, including Mensch Capital Partners, that have agreed to pay for the cleanup of toxins at the Westwood site, where the project will be located.

"This particular piece is in the southeast corner where we're building out an ice ribbon, a fully accessible ice rink, a splash pad that is fully accessible, and a fully accessible playground," said Kulpa.

He said the overall construction on the project is set to begin this fall.

"I would expect this thing to be coming online in about 2025," Kulpa said.

The cost of the project is estimated at about $20 million.

Heastie will remain in the area Tuesday to announce additional state funding for projects in Lancaster and Buffalo.
EATON, Ohio  A postal employee has been formally charged with two felonies after an investigation into opened mail.

Austin Christopher-Aaron Stutsman, 21, of Greenville, Ohio, is accused of theft and identity fraud, both as fifth-degree felonies, in Easton Municipal Court, according to Sheriff Mike Simpson in a news release.

Stutsman was released from Preble County's jail Monday after posting bond, according to jail records. His bond was set at $2,585 during an arraignment Monday afternoon.

According to online case records, Stutsman requested a court-appointed attorney during the arraignment. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing at 9 a.m. Wednesday.

15-year-old will face charge in robbery, stabbing as adult

The investigation began during May 2022 after complaints were received about mail being opened and money or gift cards being removed prior to residential delivery in the Eldorado area.

The U.S. Postal Inspector's Office assisted the investigation that identified Stutsman, an Eldorado Post Office employee, as a suspect, the release said. During an interview last week, Stutsman admitted opening mail since his employment began during December 2021.

Stutsman told investigators he would open mail that appeared to contain greeting cards to find cash or food gift cards, according to the release. He then admitted taking money and gift cards on several occasions since December.

Appeals court affirms Richmond man's methamphetamine conviction

Investigators also allege that Stutsman, while working, was issuing money orders and cashing them for personal use, the release said. In one instance, Stutsman issued a money order in a friend's name.

Stutsman is thought to have taken several hundred dollars in cash and gift cards and more than $2,000 in money orders, according to the release.

The investigation continues.

This article originally appeared on Richmond Palladium-Item: Ohio postal employee accused of opening mail to take cash, gift cards
Its no secret that Democrats have a rural problem. The partys share of the rural vote had been shrinking for decades even before Donald Trump arrived on the scene, deftly tapping into rural and working-class discontent and dragging levels of Democratic support to new lows in nonmetropolitan places.

Even as Trumps popularity has waned among some demographics, Democrats have shaved little off the GOPs rural margins. Indeed, few Democratic campaigns seem to have tried to claw back rural ground, with many candidates appearing simply to cede the rural vote to the MAGA crowd. As most candidates for state-wide office continue to put all their eggs in the urban and suburban voter basket, rural Democratic organizers and operatives from North Carolina to Texas to Arizona to New York complain about state party failures to enhance their rural infrastructure and initiatives.

As a scholar who studies rural people and places, Ive noticed one Democratic candidate who defies this trend. While consultants and organizers talk about the need for rural talking points and investments in rural newspaper and radio buys, this politician has deployed the most obvious strategy for making inroads with rural voters: He showed up in every county in his state.

Then, he did something really remarkable: He showed up again.

That candidate is John Fetterman, who secured the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvanias May primary with a robust 59 percent of the vote and currently holds the lead in general election polling.

Fetterman lived up to his Every County, Every Vote slogan. On a single Saturday in early May, for example, he visited five counties in north-central Pennsylvania, part of the states rural T  the vast area which form a big T on the map between the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh metro areas and north to the New York state line.



Ten days later, in spite of a stroke that hospitalized him just a few days before the primary, Fetterman carried all 67 counties in the Democratic primary. In doing so, Fetterman didnt just attend to the rural, he attended to what he often called the ruby red parts of the Keystone State. Trump carried all five of the counties Fetterman visited on that day in early May  Clinton, Potter, Tioga, Bradford and Northumberland  and he did so with at least 65 percent of the vote. In Potter County, four of five voters picked Trump. Many Democrats might see those counties as a waste of time, but in the primary, at least, showing up worked for Fetterman: He got 77 percent of the vote.



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Fetterman is hardly the first Democratic candidate to make a show of an every-county tour. Indeed, it used to be the norm. When I was growing up in rural Arkansas in the 1970s and 80s, I recall Gov. Bill Clinton passing through my hometown each election cycle. (My family reminisced fondly for years about the day my sister, a teenaged waitress at Pearls Cafe, served Clinton coffee and a slice of pie.) Clinton showed up even though my county was home to a measly 8,000 folks, of whom less than a few thousand voted. Its just how retail politics was done back in the day.

More recently, Beto ORourke conducted a 254-county campaign in 2018 when he ran against Ted Cruz for a U.S. Senate seat from Texas. ORourke lost, but by just 3 percent, and he and his running mate for lieutenant governor are now going out of their way to show up in the Lone Star States rural reaches. Likewise Chris Jones, Democratic nominee for governor of Arkansas, is on a 75-county tour of the Natural State as he challenges the Republican heir apparent, Sarah Huckabee Sanders.

But Fetterman may be the first candidate in recent memory to have visited each county in his state not once, but twice. When Fetterman became Pennsylvanias lieutenant governor in 2019, he undertook a 67-county listening tour about cannabis legalization. Columnist Will Bunch of the Philadelphia Inquirer suggests this laid the groundwork for Fettermans widespread popularity, observing that when Fetterman returned to each county as a candidate for Senate, he was shrouded in the purple haze of a political rock star.

Fettermans primary strategy was, of course, the very antithesis of New York Sen. Chuck Schumers dismissal of a voting bloc Democrats used to rely on: For every blue-collar Democrat we lose in western Pennsylvania, Schumer said, we will pick up two moderate Republicans in the suburbs in Philadelphia. That was in the summer of 2016, and the senator was soon proved wrong. Pennsylvania was credited (or blamed, depending on your politics), along with Michigan and Wisconsin, with Hillary Clintons loss of the presidency. Trump beat her by about 44,000 votes in 2016 to win Pennsylvanias 20 Electoral College votes. (Biden, who often referenced his scrappy Scranton roots, recovered in 2020 with a slightly wider margin of victory, 81,000 votes.)

The attention a high-profile candidate like Fetterman has paid to rural areas of his state may begin to ease the rural inferiority complex thats been festering for decades, as rural economies have stagnated, small towns have lost population and country folks have become the butt of jokes. One 27-year-old woman in Westmoreland County, part of the Pittsburgh metropolitan area that struggles against the Pennsyltucky stereotype, praised Fetterman for showing up and speaking bluntly. Were not just silly hillbillies, she told a New York Times reporter.



Fetterman has serious street cred when he speaks about crummy job markets and regional inequalities that bog down many nonmetro communities. Before seeking statewide office, he served for 13 years as mayor of Braddock, a down-and-out city of 1,721 near Pittsburgh. Fetterman has continued to live in Braddock  with his family, in a converted car dealership  even after he was elected lieutenant governor in 2018.

Issues of place  what rural sociologists call uneven development or spatial inequality  have long been front and center for Fetterman, as in his 2018 response to the Ballotpedia survey, I am most passionate about policies that help our forgotten communities. Fettermans wife, Gisele, struck a similar chord on the night of his primary victory. This race were running, its a race  for every small town, for every person who calls those small towns home and for every person whos considered leaving because they didnt see enough opportunities.



Many Pennsylvanians are presumably drawn to Fettermans everyman persona. He wears hoodies and gym shorts on the campaign trail, speaks Pennsylvania vernacular including yinz and youse, and Stillers and Birds. Even his long-time failure to look after his health  the cause of his stroke  is something many rural voters can relate to as rural hospitals close and health care gets harder to access. Thats on top of the rugged, self-sufficient mindset associated with rural culture that leads many  especially men  to forego medical care.



Fetterman doesnt try to sound like a Republican. His policy positions are left of centersometimes pretty far left of center  on everything except fracking, which he supports. He favors criminal justice reform, raising the minimum wage, supporting the LGBTQ community, and legalizing "dreamers." Hes even in favor of abolishing the filibuster if thats what it takes to advance a progressive agenda.

When it comes to abortion rights and unions, Fetterman has been known to use the word sacred, and he has been particularly vocal since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June. When it comes to unions, even Fettermans dogs  with their own Twitter account  have gotten in on the action, expressing excitement about the unionization of Pittsburgh area Starbucks stores:



Given that some of these positions  especially those on social and cultural issues  surely rankle Pennsylvanias rural moderates, Fettermans popularity has probably risen not because of his stances, but rather in spite of them.

It may be that Fettermans personal appeal permits him to move the needle on voters political stances, pulling them along with his agenda. Fetterman may be to white working-class and rural voters in Pennsylvania what Michigan State Sen. Mallory McMorrow is to suburban moms: the politician whose conviction, leadership and relatability brings others along on progressive positions, e.g., support for LGBTQ youth, that might otherwise give those voters pause, or cause them to balk outright. If John Fetterman believes it, they may reason, Ill give it some thought. Maybe hes got a point.



Whatever happens in the general election, Fettermans rural success in the primary raises the question: Why arent more Democratic candidates pursuing rural voters like Fetterman has?

Politicians and political consultants offer several excuses. Theres the discomfort candidates, as well as their staff, may feel when going into presumptively hostile territory. Some Democrats assume rural Americas a lost cause, not only because rural folks lean Republican, but also because of an assumption that they are yesterdays news, with little to contribute to the 21st century economy.

Plus, theres a widespread assumption that campaigns just dont get enough bang for their buck in rural places, where door knocking is inefficient because houses are scattered across the countryside rather than clustered along walkable streets. Its the same urban-centric thinking that keeps all sorts of institutions from investing in rural people and places: a belief you dont get a high enough return on investment where you cant achieve economies of scale.

If Fetterman had bought that line of thinking, none of the places he visited on Saturday, May 7 would have been deemed worth his time. None has more than 10,000 residents, and three have populations hovering around just 3,000. All are in nonmetro counties, defined as fewer than 100,000 residents. Wouldnt Fetterman have been wiser to spend that day in one of the states metropolitan areas, where critical masses of voters reside? After all, to make those five stops, Fetterman spent more than five hours driving 245 miles to get from one town to the next. And that doesnt count the three hours it took him to travel each way from his Braddock home to this part of north central Pennsylvania. How many voters did Fetterman reach on those nonmetro appearances, conventional political wisdom might ask? Did he convert any voters who werent already in his camp?

Fetterman apparently wasnt thinking about it that way. Hes running for state-wide office, which means that there are no gerrymandered districts to fall back on and a rural vote counts as much as an urban or suburban one. By visiting rural areas, the signal Fetterman sent to all rural Pennsylvanians  all red Pennsylvanians  is a powerful one. He saw them. He invested his time and energy in them, thus responding to a perennial rural complaint that politicians  and mainstream society generally  forgets or neglects them.

It's clear that this worked in the primary, and the question is whether that success will carry through to the general election. The truth is that in statewide races, rural voters can provide Democrats a margin of victory even if their town or county is ruby red. This was evident in Terry McAuliffes failed campaign for Virginia governor in 2021. McAuliffe didnt connect with rural voters, and he lost badly in nonmetro counties  the areas referred to as ROVA, meaning the rest of Virginia. Both the term ROVA  treating rural as remainder after that which really matters  and McAuliffes neglect of rural voters suggests an urban dismissiveness of the rural. (He believed he had solidly blue NOVA, or Northern Virginia, stitched up.) Its an attitude that permitted Glenn Youngkin to gain the governors mansion; Youngkin outperformed Trumps 2020 numbers in rural places, giving him an edge McAuliffe could not overcome when he got less suburban support than hed anticipated.

Fetterman, similarly, will have to rack up huge margins in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh if he doesnt chip away at Republican dominance in the hinterlands. Its even possible that his strategy to cultivate support from across the state may be an added attraction to progressive metro voters; after all, the every-county approach has a unity vibe that may appeal to folks all along the rural-urban continuum.

Indeed, the election outcome could turn on mid-sized metropolitan counties like York (where Fetterman grew up) and Lancaster, where tens of thousands of votes are at stake. Those counties, considered part of the neglected T because theyre not Pittsburgh and Philly, were the last two places Fetterman visited before his stroke. More than 64,000 Democratic votes were cast in York and Lancaster counties combined in the primary. Thats more than the margin of Hillary Clintons 2016 Pennsylvania loss. Fetterman carried those counties with 80 percent and 76 percent, respectively, of the Democratic vote.

Fetterman still has his work cut out for him, of course. A national survey in February showed that two out of three rural voters view the Democratic Party unfavorably. Fettermans opponent, Republican nominee Mehmet Oz (televisions Dr. Oz), thus has some ready-made traction in the states rural reaches because of the R by his name on the ballot. Theres also the matter of Trumps endorsement of Oz, though Oz has recently been distancing himself from the former president.

With Fetterman still recovering from his stroke, hes unlikely to get back to each of Pennsylvanias counties before November. But it probably doesnt matter. Fetterman has already accumulated critical capital in the T, which may be enough to counter the toxic D by his name. And his unconventional rural strategy  as much as his unconventional persona  could help give him the W in a tight race, one with huge national implications for the balance of the Senate.


The post Pete Davidson in Trauma Therapy Following Harassment from Kanye West: Report appeared first on Consequence.

Pete Davidson is reportedly in trauma therapy following the belligerent online harassment he experienced at the hands of Kanye West.

A source told People that Davidson began seeking help in April of this year in large part due to the rappers consistent verbal and physical threats against him, sparked by the Saturday Night Live alums romantic relationship with Wests ex-wife Kim Kardashian: The attention and negativity coming from Kanye and his antics is a trigger for [Davidson], and hes had to seek out help, the source added. In addition to his social media tirades, West also encouraged his fans to publicly harass Davidson, and even released music videos that depicted him decapitatating, skinning, and burying the comedian alive.

After nine month of dating, however, it was announced last week that Davidson and Kardashian had broken up. While they insisted that Wests behavior wasnt a factor in the split, the rapper still rejoiced, sharing a photoshopped New York Times front page with the headline Skete Davidson Dead At Age 28.

[Davidson] has no regrets for dating Kim and wants it to be made very clear that shes been nothing but supportive of him throughout their relationship, the source went on.

Whether the topic came about organically, through his projects, or just as a byproduct of his fame, Davidson has often been open about his struggles with mental health and living with borderline personality disorder. Since confirming his departure from SNL in May, hes appeared in A24s new horror-comedy Bodies Bodies Bodies.

Pete Davidson in Trauma Therapy Following Harassment from Kanye West: Report

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Russia's Druzhba pipeline supplies oil to both northern and southern Europe. Reuters

Oil prices rose by over 1% Tuesday after Russia suspended flows through a key pipeline section.

Russia will suspend flows via the southern leg of its Druzhba pipeline, a spokesperson said.

The pipeline supplies Europe with around 1 million barrels of crude a day, according to S&P Global.

Russia has suspended oil exports via the southern leg of its Druzhba pipeline - a move that could potentially exacerbate Europe's ongoing energy crisis.

The country's crude pipeline operator Transneft said that it had been unable to pay its Ukrainian equivalent due to western sanctions, according to the RIA Novosti news agency.

Russia will suspend oil export flows through the pipeline's southern leg as a result, choking off crude supply to the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Slovakia.

Druzhba is a 2,500-mile pipeline that supplies Europe with 1 million barrels of oil a day, according to S&P Global. Its southern leg carries crude from western Siberia, the Ural mountains, and the Caspian Sea into central and eastern Europe via Ukraine.

Crude oil prices rallied slightly after Russia suspended flows, with Brent crude climbing 1.36% to just under $98 a barrel and WTI crude jumping 1.22% to just below $92 a barrel.

Both benchmarks soared to just under $140 a barrel after Russia invaded Ukraine in February but have slipped back towards their pre-war levels in recent months as recessionary fears reduce demand for commodities.

Druzhba's northern leg will export oil as normal, a Transneft spokesman said. That part of the pipeline ships oil through Belarus to refineries in Poland and Germany.

This isn't the first time that western sanctions against Vladimir Putin's regime have curbed energy flows into Europe. Russia slashed flows of natural gas through the Nord Stream 1 gas pipeline to just 20% of capacity last month as it says it is waiting for the return of a repaired turbine from Canada.

Read more: This map shows where Europe gets its natural gas - and why economic disaster is looming if Russia cuts off its fuel supply

Read the original article on Business Insider
The post Taylor Swift Files Motion in Shake It Off Lawsuit: Lyrics Were Written Entirely by Me appeared first on Consequence.

Taylor Swift has filed a new summary judgment motion in an ongoing copyright lawsuit claiming some of the lyrics to her 2014 hit Shake It Off were lifted from 3LWs Playas Gon Play. In a sworn declaration, the superstar stated the lyrics were written entirely by me and claimed she had never heard of that song or 3LW until the suit was filed by Playas Gon Play songwriters Sean Hall and Nathan Butler.

The lyrics to Shake It Off were written entirely by me, Swift wrote (via Billboard). Until learning about Plaintiffs claim in 2017, I had never heard the song Playas Gon Play and had never heard of that song or the group 3LW.

The singer explained that she drew partly on experiences in my life and, in particular, unrelenting public scrutiny of my personal life, clickbait reporting, public manipulation, and other forms of negative personal criticism which I learned I just needed to shake off and focus on my music while writing the lyrics.

In the statement, Swift also said she had heard variations of the relevant phrases players gonna play and haters gonna hate throughout her life on countless occasions, including while growing up in Pennsylvania and Tennessee.

These phrases were akin to other commonly used sayings like dont hate the playa, hate the game, take a chill pill, and say it, dont spray it,' she said. I drew on those commonly used player and hater phrases in creating the lyrics Cause the players gonna play, play, play, play, play/ And the haters gonna hate, hate, hate, hate, hate.'

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Swift added that shed heard the phrases in many songs, films, and other works before writing her song, including Eric Churchs The Outsiders, where he sings, The players gonna play and a haters gonna hate. She also mentioned wearing a t-shirt purchased at Urban Outfitters with the phrase haters gonna hate during a 2013 live performance.

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Elsewhere in the motion, Swift explained that her parents did not permit me to watch TRL until I was about 13 years old. She continued, None of the CDs I listened to as a child, or after that, were by 3LW. I have never heard the song Playas Gon Play on the radio, on television, or in any film. The first time I ever heard the song was after this claim was made. I do not own and have never listened to the albums Now Thats What I Call Music! 6 or Now Thats What I Call Call Music! 7.

To that end, Taylors mother Andrea Swift filed a statement (via Pitchfork) saying she carefully monitored both the television she watched and the music she heard while adding, Taylor did not attend sleepovers at friends houses as a young girl because we lived on a farm until she was 10 years old and I always preferred having friends come over to our home.

Hall and Butler first filed the lawsuit in September 2017, claiming Shake It Off steals the aforementioned lyrics from Playas Gon Play. US District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald then dismissed the case in February 2018, ruling that the allegedly infringed lyrics are short phrases that lack the modicum of originality and creativity required for copyright protection. One year later, however, a federal appeals court reversed that ruling, saying the Playas Gon Play lyrics were creative enough for copyright protection.

In December, Judge Fitzgerald turned down Swifts request to throw out the case, saying there were enough objective similarities between the songs that a jury would have to decide. Mondays filing, including Swifts declaration, was another effort to avoid a trial. Her attorneys also said discovery had uncovered other fatal flaws in the lawsuit.

Swifts most recent song was Carolina off the soundtrack to Where the Crawdads Sing. The artists last two original albums were 2020s evermore and folklore, after which she released her latest re-recorded LPs: Red (Taylors Version) and Fearless (Taylors Version). In June, she joined HAIM to perform a mashup of Love Story and Gasoline at Londons O2 Arena.

Taylor Swift Files Motion in Shake It Off Lawsuit: Lyrics Were Written Entirely by Me

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Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

KYIV, UkraineThe head of Ukraines National Security Council has told The Daily Beast that it will be impossible for Ukraine to defeat President Vladimir Putins invading army with the current level of support from the West.

Oleksiy Danilov explained that international partners never fully understood the spirit of Ukraines resilience, thought they would fold quickly in the face of Putins forces, and failed to send sufficient military support right from the start of the war with Russia.

This is not to say that Danilov has given up hope. He is confident that Ukraine will never surrender and that eventually the likes of the U.S. and the U.K will come to realize they need to offer much greater military support.

Unfortunately, the future depends not only on our country, he said. Our own capabilities, unfortunately, are not enoughthis must be recognized. Without partners, this is impossible, but the question is how quickly they will give us the necessary weapons.

Danilov had invited The Daily Beast into his inner sanctum, a spacious office with white leather furniture in a well-guarded complex of government buildings in the center of Kyiv.

Born and brought up in eastern Ukraine, Danilov trained first as a veterinarian before going into politics and serving as mayor of Luhansk, the eastern city now under Russian control, in the 1990s. He has since enjoyed a varied career, serving as both an MP and a history teacherindeed, he still cuts a professorial figure, with his his rectangular glasses perched on the tip of his nose. He is happy to expound on the global power dynamics at play, and delve into Ukraines cultural and political history as he speaks.

Inside Russias Kafka-esque Mass Kidnapping Scheme

Danilov is playing a pivotal role in a war that has already claimed thousands of lives. Every morning I receive information about how many children have died: at least 359 children have been killed, 692 children were left injuredmany of them became crippled, he said.

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All of this could have been different.

During the pre-war months from November to February, Danilov sat with many emissaries from foreign governments in this same office. He said they all told him Ukraine had no chance of withstanding Russian military aggression.

We were promised Russians would make concentration camps and destroy all the country's top political leadership in a very short time. Someone said it would happen in three days, others in fivewe were given a maximum of three weeks, Danilov recalled, looking back at the five months of vicious war. I told them all: You don't understand our inner freedom. We will not surrender, we will fight.

Western governments never accepted that Ukraine would go toe-to-toe with the Russian forces and thus needed to be fully equipped for a long and grueling war. Even now, Kyiv believes that the West is dragging its feet as Russia continues to bomb the country indiscriminately and make gradual progress in the East.

We will never surrender, but the timing of our victory depends on how the partners will give weapons. We needed it yesterday. [The West] didn't believe in us and didnt give us enough weapons. They began to give weapons in December to resist a certain part of the hostilities. In February, our entire country knew these three words: Javelin, NLAW and Stinger. It was a big emotional help because most people thought we had a super weapon. Yes, it was, but not in sufficient quantities. But our will and strength, this horizontal control system, made itself felt.

The head of the National Security Council grew up in the Luhansk region and has a deep understanding of the duality of the Russophone regions of the Donbas. He is tall and fit for a man of 59, dressed in a black polo shirt with a Danilov tag on his chest and the national symbol, a golden trident, on his sleeve. The emblem dates back to Kyivan Rusa medieval state centered in Kyiv that birthed both Russia and Ukraine. Danilov says he is fascinated by the era, and still spends time studying historic archives. He even pulls out an album of Ukrainian art and icons, as well as maps, including a giant Russian trophy map to showcase his favorite pastime.

He says the Weston the other handunderestimated his countrymens patriotism.

While Danilov and President Volodymyr Zelensky were lobbying behind the scenes for shipments of weaponry and sophisticated military support before the war broke out, the West was arguing that the government should have been publicly acknowledging the impending war rather than playing down fears that were being shared by spies in Washington, D.C. and London.

Danilov dismisses the criticism that Ukraine was not ready for the war. He says Ukraine had been preparing for Russias assault even before the foreign intelligence agencies predicted it. Ukraine was on high alert much earlier than [the West] started talking about the war, he said.

They believe that we should have publicly announced that tomorrow we would have a war. But they must understand what panic is, he said. But we were getting ready. All our regulatory documents, strategy, defense plan were adopted in advance and the military worked them out. A law on territorial defense was passed and detachments were already formed, but they lacked weapons and training.

Ukraine has not been hampered by internal issues, Danilov argues, the problem has been waiting for sufficient support to arrive from the West. If a fresh tranche of weaponry and equipment is sent in before Russia makes more gains, he says Ukraine is ready to finish the job.

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A traveling Texas nurse is facing multiple murder charges after running a red light and crashing into traffic while allegedly driving 90 mph in Windsor Hills, California.

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon announced on Monday that Nicole Linton has been charged with six counts of murder and five counts of gross vehicular manslaughter for the multi-car crash, which left six people dead. Linton faces a 90-year prison sentence if convicted.

Police say Linton was driving at high speed in a Mercedes on Thursday when she blew through a red light at the intersection of La Brea and Slauson avenues. Multiple vehicles were hit and three of them were engulfed by flames in what authorities dubbed a fiery wreck.

Frederick M. Brown/Daily Mail.com via AP

Linton, from Houston, is a traveling nurse who was working in Los Angeles when the crash occurred. Authorities are investigating whether drugs or alcohol were a factor.

Killed in the crash were Asherey Ryan, 23, who was more than 8 months pregnant, her 11-month-old baby, Alonzo Quintero, and her boyfriend, Reynold Lester. The couple were en route to a doctors appointment when the crash happened.

Two other women, who have yet to be identified, were killed in another vehicle.

Six other vehicles were involved in the collision, including five people with minor injuries in an SUV and another driver in another vehicle.

Disturbing security cam video of the catastrophic crash in Windsor Hills New details NOW on @ABC7 Eyewitness News at 5pm pic.twitter.com/CQU6y3rHHv  Chris Cristi (@abc7chriscristi) August 4, 2022

Linton, 37, was seen in tears and in a wheelchair during her first court appearance at the Foltz Criminal Justice Center on Monday. Her brows were furrowed as tears streamed down her face, her left arm wrapped in a brace. She nodded as a judge denied her attorneys request for $300,000 bail.

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Judge denies Nicole Lintons attorney request for $300,000 bail.



Linton reacts to judges ruling.



Next bail hearing set for Monday. pic.twitter.com/IoEhKXb0EZ  MarlaTellez (@MarlaTellez) August 8, 2022

Today, we begin the process of holding accountable the person responsible for the deaths of six people, including a pregnant woman, and their families, District Attorney Gascon said in a statement.

The case remains under investigation by the California Highway Patrol.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Former President Donald Trump and his one-time second-in-command, Mike Pence, are lined up on opposite sides of a contentious GOP gubernatorial primary that pits the former president against much of the states Republican machine.

Its the same dynamic this week in Wisconsin as last week in Arizona. Now, Trump-backed businessman Tim Michels and former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch are locked in a tight battle ahead of Tuesdays primary to face Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, in November.

Kleefisch not only has the support of Pence, but of former Gov. Scott Walker, her former boss. And in another primary, Trump is also targeting state Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, the powerful and long-tenured state legislative leader who blessed a partisan investigation of the 2020 election, over Vos refusal to entertain the fanciful and legally impossible notion of decertifying the 2020 results.

The Wisconsin primaries highlight an action-packed slate of elections that include a special election for a red-leaning House seat in Minnesota and the primary for an open House seat in Vermont, where dueling wings in the Democratic Party are competing to send the states first woman to Congress.

Here is what to watch on Tuesday.

Competing wings of GOP clash in Wisconsin

The Republican primary for the right to face Evers has been a contentious one.

Kleefisch had been seen as the nominee-in-waiting. But Michels relatively late entry to the race, powered by his self-funding and then by Trumps endorsement, quickly turned the race hypercompetitive.

Kleefisch has backing from traditional Republican power centers in the state, including Walker and Vos. But Trump made a late bid to back Michels, a businessman who lost to Democrat Russ Feingold in a 2004 Senate race, and the former president attacked Kleefisch from the stage at a rally in southeastern Wisconsin late last week.

(Trump had been bothered by a picture he saw of the teenaged children of Kleefisch and state Supreme Court Justice Brian Hagedorn attending prom together, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. Hagedorn is a conservative who sided with the courts liberals on various 2020 election-related cases.)



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Another big contest in the state features a Trump-backed candidate challenging Vos, an incredibly powerful figure in Wisconsin politics. Despite Vos moves to fund an investigation into the 2020 election in the state, his unwillingness to entertain decertifying the election  a popular rallying cry on the right which is not legally possible  earned Trumps enmity.

In an eleventh-hour twist, Michael Gableman  the former state Supreme Court justice that Vos hired to run that investigation  also backed Adam Steen, Vos challenger.

The Trump-versus-local Republicans dynamic is also on display Tuesday in Connecticut, where the Republican contest to face Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) features former state House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, who won the state partys endorsement, and Trump-backed Republican National Committee Member Leora Levy.

Back in Wisconsin, the Democratic primary in the state to challenge Republican Sen. Ron Johnson, meanwhile, has been stripped of any last-minute uncertainty. All the major Democratic candidates ended their campaigns and endorsed Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes over the last month.

A special election test

Minnesota will host a special election Tuesday to fill the seat of the late GOP Rep. Jim Hagedorn, one in a series of August special House elections following the blockbuster Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade in June.

Former state Rep. Brad Finstad, a moderate backed by the Republican Main Street Partnership and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is taking on former Hormel Foods CEO Jeff Ettinger. Thanks to some self-funding, Ettinger has outspent Finstad, $1.2 million to $508,000, as of late July. But Republicans are favored to hold this southern district, which Trump carried by 9 points in 2020.

Voters in Kansas last week overwhelmingly rejected a state constitutional amendment that would have cleared the way to new restrictions on abortion in the state, which Democratic operatives pointed to as a clear sign abortion policy could be a motivating factor in the midterms.

But it is uncertain how much voters preferences on abortion politics will translate to the battle for Congress, and the margin in Minnesota could provide a new datapoint about the state of the post-Dobbs political environment.

Vermonts glass ceiling moment

Vermont is the only state in the country that has never sent a woman to Congress. Thats about to change. The two leading Democrats in the race for the at-large district are Lt. Gov. Molly Gray and state Senate President Becca Balint. Scant public polling has given the Bernie Sanders-endorsed Balint an edge, and a Democrat is heavily favored to win in the fall in this liberal bastion.

The last few all-male congressional holdouts have fallen in just the past few years. In 2018, Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) was appointed to her seat and was later elected to a full term. Two years earlier, Delaware broke its all-male streak when it sent Democratic Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester to the House.

What took Vermonters so long to elect a woman? The state has a long history of men holding its at-large seat for decade-long stretches. The seat is open because Democratic Rep. Peter Welch, first elected in 2006, is running to succeed retiring Sen. Patrick Leahy, who has held his seat since 1974.

Setting up the House battleground

Both parties will tap nominees in some of the competitive House races in the country. In retiring Rep. Ron Kinds (D-Wis.) district, three Democrats  Deb McGrath, Brad Pfaff and Rebecca Cooke  are vying for the nomination. One of them will face Derrick Van Orden, the 2020 GOP nominee, in a top Republican target district.

In Minnesota, Democratic Rep. Angie Craig is gearing up for a rematch in the Twin Cities suburbs against Republican Tyler Kistner, after winning by 2 points in 2020.

Republicans will finalize a pair of potential battleground matchups in Connecticut. Former GOP state Sen. George Logan is uncontested in his race to face Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.). And state Rep. Mike France is also running unopposed to take on Democratic Rep. Joe Courtney. Biden carried both seats by double-digits in 2020, but Republicans are increasingly optimistic about contesting at least one of them.

Other statewide contests of note

Connecticut is home to some under-the-radar statewide elections. Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont and Republican Bob Stefanowski are headed for a rematch of their 2018 contest, which Lamont won narrowly. Groups backed by both the Democratic and Republican Governors Associations recently disclosed sizable ad buys in the state.

Both parties will also be nominating candidates to be the states chief election officer. Now-former Democratic Secretary of State Denise Merrill had previously announced she would not seek another term, and she retired early earlier this year to care for her husband.

Tuesdays primaries in Minnesota, meanwhile, will finalize a match-up between Democratic Gov. Tim Walz and former Republican state Sen. Scott Jensen, a race Republicans have argued could be a sleeper in November. Republicans also seem poised to nominate Kim Crockett, an activist who called the 2020 election a train wreck, to face Democratic Secretary of State Steve Simon in November.
An angry Donald Trump has reported that FBI agents descended on his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Monday evening and staged a dramatic raid.

These are dark times for our Nation, as my beautiful home, Mar-A-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, is currently under siege, raided, and occupied by a large group of FBI agents, the 45th US president raged in a statement.

Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before. After I [have been] working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate.

Such an assault could only take place in broken, Third-World Countries. Sadly, America has now become one of those Countries, corrupt at a level not seen before.

The agents even broke into my safe, Mr Trump griped, claiming it was an attempt to stop him running for the presidency again in 2024.

The surprise development is believed to be part of an investigation into the removal of classified presidential records from the White House following Mr Trumps defeat in the 2020 election and reluctant retreat from Washington, DC, in January 2021 in the aftermath of the Capitol riot and on the day of his successor Joe Bidens inauguration ceremony.

The Justice Department has yet to comment publicly, however.

As protesters in support of Mr Trump gathered at the gates of Mar-a-Lago last night, his son Eric Trump and daughter-in-law Lara Trump both moved quickly to dismiss the question of any irregularities.

The purpose of the raid, from what they said, was because the National Archives wanted to, you know, corroborate whether or not Donald Trump had any documents in his possession, the former commander-in-chiefs son told Sean Hannity on Fox News.

Both he and his wife have insisted Mr Trump is simply in the habit of keeping press clippings and souvenirs from his long and eventful career in the public eye.

Interestingly, the raid coincides with the publication of photos by New York Times journalist Maggie Haberman purporting to show scrunched up fragments of presidential documents in a toilet bowl that Mr Trump is alleged to have attempted to flush away, an act that risks violating the Presidential Records Act, which requires him to preserve them.

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Mar-a-Lago itself, the property currently under siege, covers 62,500 square feet of ground and boasts no fewer than 126 rooms.

Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida (AFP/Getty)

It was acquired by Mr Trump in 1985 for an estimated $10m: he had reportedly originally offered $15m for the house and been rejected, only to then buy up the land between the residence and the Atlantic Ocean and threaten to build a new property there, blocking out the mansions beach view and driving down its value.

Having forced the sale, the New York luxury property mogul subsequently carried out extensive renovations, adding a ballroom.

He briefly planned to carve it up into smaller apartments when he blundered into financial difficulties in the early 1990s following the failure of his casino venture in Atlantic City, New Jersey, before finally turning it into a private members club in 1994.

The residence had been built between 1924 and 1927 by Marjorie Merriweather Post, a breakfast cereal heiress, philanthropist and Russian art collector, who hired renowned architect Marion Sims Wyeth and interior designer Joseph Urban to realise her vision.

Donald Trump speaking at the latest Conservative Political Action Conference in Dallas, Texas, over the weekend (AP)

Post lived in it with a sequence of husbands until her death on 12 September 1973, when she bequeathed it to the National Parks Service, imagining grandly that it might be used by the US president as a Winter White House.

Richard Nixon and Jimmy Carter might have rejected the idea, but that is precisely what Mr Trump ended up using Mar-a-Lago for between 2016 and 2020.

Before he was unceremoniously dumped from office and the estate became his permanent residence, Mr Trump and his wife Melania Trump frequently took refuge from the media glare in its palatial grounds and hosted a number of important heads of state at the property, notably the late Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe, Chinese premier Xi Jinping and Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro.

These days, Mr Trump holds court in the sunshine, entertaining the flattery of Republican Party luminaries, right-wing media celebrities and those MAGA loyalists wealthy enough to afford the hefty fees.

Its precise membership list remains a closely-guarded secret, although the late billionaire paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, who lived nearby, is known to have visited and the clubs human resources director, Janine Gill, testified at the trial of Epstein fixer Ghislaine Maxwell in December last year, where she was questioned about accuser Virginia Giuffres claim that she had first met Maxwell at Mar-a-Lago when she was 16.

A Jazz Age monument to American prosperity in the spirit (if not quite on the scale) of William Randolph Hearsts vast Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, Mar-a-Lago was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1980 and remains the 24th largest mansion in the US.
For the third time, a candidate backed by former president Donald Trump squares off against one backed by former Vice President Mike Pence, this time, in Wisconsin. And Vermont may be on its way to a history-making moment, as four states hold primaries Tuesday: Wisconsin, Connecticut, Vermont and Minnesota.

Here are some of the main races to watch:

Wisconsin

Wisconsin Republican gubernatorial candidate Tim Michels speaks to residents during a campaign stop on August 6, 2022 in Chilton, Wisconsin. / Credit: Scott Olson / Getty Images

The Republican primary for governor in Wisconsin is the latest proxy battle between Trump and Pence, both of whom could run for president in 2024. The primary has also divided Republicans in the state over one issue: whether President Biden's win in 2020 can be "decertified."

Trump has backed Tim Michels, the owner of a construction company who's put close to $12 million into his own campaign. Pence, along with former Republican Gov. Scott Walker, endorsed former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch.

Wisconsin GOP gubernatorial candidate Rebecca Kleefisch speaks to reporters during a campaign stop on August 7, 2022 in Delafield, Wisconsin. / Credit: Scott Olson / Getty Images

Another candidate, Wisconsin Assemblyman Tim Ramthun, has been trailing Kleefisch and Michels in polling but led in pushing for the decertification of Mr. Biden's victory.

The president won the state by about 21,000 votes in 2020, but Trump and his allies have repeatedly called for state legislators to "decertify" or invalidate the results over a year and a half after Mr. Biden's inauguration. They've been especially emboldened after Wisconsin's Supreme Court ruled that dropboxes for absentee ballots are illegal.

"So do you know what that means? That means they were obviously illegal in the 2020 election. Hundreds and hundreds of thousands of votes," Trump said during a rally for Michels in Waukesha on Friday.

At the rally, Michels reiterated that he would dissolve the state's elections commission, which Kleefisch also supports.

"I am going to get election integrity back in Wisconsin. We are going to stop the 'Zuckerbucks,' out-of-state billionaires coming into our state and taking control of our election process. It won't happen anymore," he said.

"We should not be having this conversation 21 months after the election. Was it rigged? Was it fixed? I'm going to stop it," he added.

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Michels, who received Trump's endorsement in June, said in one debate that decertification is not a top priority. In a debate after, he kept the door open and said that "everything will be on the table."

Decertifying the 2020 results in Wisconsin is not legally possible. There is no path to do so in state or federal law, which Kleefisch has repeated during debates and on the campaign trail.

Still, it's a point of difference between her and Michels, who both cast doubt on the 2020 election results and are in a tight matchup to take on Democratic incumbent Governor Tony Evers this November. An Emerson College poll days before the primary had Kleefisch up two points on Michels, within the margin of error.

Also notable  while 39% of respondents said Trump's endorsement factors into their decision, 49% said it did not.

When asked at a town hall on if they would support Trump if he runs in 2024, neither Kleefisch nor Michels would commit to doing so. "I'm focused on this election right now. I have made no commitments to any candidates in 2024," Michels said.

But later at the Waukesha rally, Michels said that he would support a third run for Trump.

Almost $30 million has been spent on advertisements in the Republican primary, according to data from AdImpact. Michels' campaign is the top spender, with over $10 million spent, followed by Evers and Kleefisch with over $5 million a piece.

The primary in Wisconsin will be the third time that Trump and Pence have split on gubernatorial candidates this primary season. In Georgia, Pence backed incumbent Gov. Brian Kemp, who won decisively. And Trump's endorsed candidate Kari Lake was declared the winner last Thursday in Arizona over the Pence-backed Karrin Taylor Robson.

There are a handful of candidates the two agree on. Both have endorsed the same gubernatorial candidate in Arkansas  Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who was White House press secretary  and in New York, where Rep. Lee Zeldin is running for governor.

When asked after a law enforcement roundtable in Wisconsin with Pence if the dueling endorsements could answer who leads the Republican Party, Kleefisch responded, "This is the Republican party of the people."

"It forever will be. And I'm proud to be a Wisconsin Republican," she told reporters after the event.

Decertification of the last presidential election has been a frequent topic in the race for Wisconsin's 63rd Legislative District.

In that race, Trump is backing Adam Steen, who is challenging Wisconsin House Speaker Robin Vos, a Republican who ordered an investigation of alleged voter fraud in the 2020 election. That investigation found "absolutely no evidence of election fraud."

Trump has targeted Vos simply because he will not decertify Mr. Biden's win in the state. Steen has said he would support legislation that would allow the decertification of Wisconsin's elections.

Wisconsin is also a Senate battleground state where GOP incumbent Sen. Ron Johnson will likely face off against Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, a progressive who effectively won his Democratic Senate primary when his top three opponents all dropped out of the race and endorsed him.

Connecticut

Trump announced last week he would endorse Leora Levy in the Connecticut Republican primary for U.S. Senate.

"I'm giving tonight my complete and total endorsement to Leora Levy, and she's going to go out and win this primary," Trump said. Levy and another candidate, Peter Lumaj, have been Trump loyalists on the campaign trail. Levy was also Trump's pick for ambassador to Chile, although she was never confirmed by the Senate.

Themis Klarides, a centrist Republican who has been backed by most of the GOP establishment in the state, has previously said he did not vote for Trump in 2020. Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, a notable anti-Trump Republican, held a fundraiser for her in July. In a 2016 Greenwich Time opinion piece, Levy once described Trump as "vulgar, ill-mannered and disparages those whom he cannot intimidate."

Whoever wins will have an uphill climb against popular Democratic incumbent Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who has been a frequent target of Trump and his allies.

Vermont

Four women in total (two Democrats, two Republicans) are running for Vermont's lone congressional seat, left open by Democratic Rep. Peter Welch. If one of them wins in November, Vermont will for the first time have elected a woman to Congress. Women make up a slight majority in Vermont. On the Democratic side, Lt. Gov. Molly Gray and teacher and progressive activist Becca Balint are the leading candidates. The last poll on the race was from Data for Progress, a progressive leaning firm, and showed Balint with a 32-point lead.

Sen. Bernie Sanders has backed Balint, while retiring Sen. Patrick Leahy said he has already voted for Gray. On the Republican side, accountant Ericka Redic and Anya Tynio. Meanwhile, Welch is running to fill Leahy's Vermont seat. He leads the Democratic primary field against two candidates: physician Niki Thran and activist Isaac Evans-Frantz.

Minnesota

Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota's 5th District, faces four primary challengers. Former Minneapolis City Council member Don Samuels leads the rest of the field, though Omar has doubled him in fundraising this election cycle. Omar is the latest member of the "squad" of progressive House Democrats to face primary challengers this cycle  in Missouri's 1st District, Rep. Cori Bush easily won her primary by over 40 points.

Ilhan Omar and Don Samuels / Credit: CBS

There is also a special general election to fill the rest of GOP Rep. Jim Hagedorn's term. Hagedorn died of cancer in February.

The seat leans Republican, but in the special election, turnout may be strong for Democratic candidate Jeff Ettinger. A recent poll by SuveryUSA/ABC6 showed Republican candidate Brad Finstad up by eight points. Trump won the district by 10 points.

The last notable House special election for Rep. Jeff Fortenberry's seat in Nebraska's 1st District was much closer than national Republicans were expecting, in part due to backlash from Democrats in the immediate wake of the Dobbs decision. In that race, Democratic candidate Patty Pansing Brooks lost to Republican Mike Flood by just under 7 points. Trump won the district by 15 points.

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A Buffalo banker and a leader in the city's Hispanic community are recipients of the 2022 Red Jacket Awards, the Board of Managers of the Buffalo History Museum announced.

Shelley C. Drake, recently retired as senior vice president and Western New York regional president of M&T Bank, and Casimiro Rodriguez Sr., past president of the Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York, will be honored in a ceremony Oct. 6.

The Red Jacket Award recognizes dedication to civic progress in the region.

The ceremony also will include presentation of the Owen B. Augspurger Award to urban planner and historian Angela Keppel and Paul McDonnell, an architect with the Buffalo Board of Education and former chairman of the Buffalo Preservation Board, for their work to preserve local heritage.

The Daniel B. Niederlander Award will be given to the Black Rock Historical Society for outstanding historical programming.
Former President Donald Trump. AP Photo/Joe Maiorana, File

Trump supporters are calling for a civil war after the FBI raid of Mar-a-Lago.

Experts say that political violence will heighten in the US ahead of the midterm elections.

Republican lawmakers have also entertained that idea of states seceding from US.

The FBI's search of former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida is renewing calls among conservative groups and his supporters for a civil war in the US.

"An attack on Trump is an attack on True American Patriotism," one Twitter user wrote on Tuesday. "Civil War will end up being Biden's Government vs American Patriots."

Another Trump supporter wrote on Tuesday, "Why would FBI Raif's Trump's home but Biden's and Clinton's they never touch. Civil war is coming folks, and it will not be pretty."

Kari Lake, the Trump-endorsed Republican candidate for Arizona governor, threatened to invoke the 10th Amendment of the US Constitution over the FBI search if elected in November.

Kari Lake for AZ Governor (@KariLake) August 9, 2022

It's not the first time Trump supporters or extremist groups have threatened to ignite a civil war as the country remains bitterly divided by politics. Political scientists have warned the public for months that this could happen soon.

"It is possible that there will be other instances of violence like we saw on January 6," Carole Emberton, a history professor at the University at Buffalo who specializes in the American Civil War, said in a previous interview with Insider. "When you have politicians who are riling everyone up and law enforcement that is sort of wishy-washy or weak in its response, then I think you have a really volatile mix that emboldens these kinds of groups to continue with what they're doing."

Jay Ulfelder, a political scientist who studies civil wars and served as research director of the Political Instability Task Force, previously told Insider that a civil war could become a reality because Republicans have "normalized" extremist rhetoric.

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"When that gets normalized, then it's much easier to recruit people into those organizations  that would have been considered extreme or have radical views," Ulfelder said.

Renewed calls for a civil war came after Trump announced on his social media platform Monday evening that the FBI had raided his Mar-a-Lago resort. CNN reported that the FBI search was a part of their investigation into the handling of presidential documents.

Other Republican lawmakers in several states have also embraced the idea of their state seceding from the US.

For instance, in New Hampshire, 13 Republicans voted last March to support a measure that would make the state independent from the US. Ultimately, the measure did not gain enough votes to pass the state House of Representatives.

Republican State Rep. Matthew Santonastaso previously told Insider it was just a matter of time before states began to secede.

"A national divorce is inevitable," Santonastaso said. "The government is nothing but an illusion we all hold in our minds. If the people decide to reject their government, then there is little the federal government can do to stop it."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Two months after the California Reparations Task Force released its initial report detailing the states history of slavery and the ongoing impact of race-based discrimination, the state has launched a series of listening sessions in order to receive community feedback on the legislation.

On Friday, California residents who might be eligible to receive reparations from the state met at the offices of Black Women for Wellness in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Leimert Park to share their opinions on what reparations were needed.

In my family we have been affected by eminent domain, said Hawthorne, California, resident Ashley Lambey, 33, during the meeting Friday. We havent been able to get anything in terms of what our parents left for us, she said, referring to the right of the government to seize private property for public use.

MORE: California reparations report lays out path to remedy systemic racism

A lot of young kids dont know about Jim Crow, said Kathy Clark, 71, a resident of the Paramount/East Compton area who also attended the meeting. I had to sit on the sidewalk; I couldnt sit at the counter to eat my hot dog, said Clark, recalling the days when state and local laws enforced racial segregation in the United States.

There are so many tables that need to be overturned and reset, said Donyell Smith, 53, a resident of San Diego who attended the meeting virtually. Reparations is due in every single area.

The meeting, one of dozens of sessions that will be held across the state this month, is part of a community engagement initiative run by the Bunche Center at UCLA and overseen by the states Reparations Task Force.

PHOTO: A community listening session, organized by the Coalition for a Just and Equable California, is held at the Hot and Cool Cafe in Los Angeles on July 18th, 2022. (Courtesy Marcus Champion)

In September 2020, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law AB 3121, creating a task force that would study the states history of slavery and make recommendations for reparations. California is the only state currently developing a reparations proposal.

In 2020, state Assemblyman James Gallagher, who was one of twelve legislators to vote against the bill creating the California Reparations Task Force, told California Public Radio that its like almost assuredly designed to be people from one party and probably from more of one perspective than the legislative process, which would include everybody.

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Gallagher also told California Public Radio that the issue of reparations for slavery should be determined by the federal government, echoing a common argument against municipal reparations programs.

The 11 legislators who voted against the bill and who remain in office were unavailable for comment when contacted by ABC News. Another legislator who voted against the task force was voted out of office in March 2020.

In March, the task force voted to limit eligibility to descendants of free or enslaved Black people living in the U.S. before the 20th century.

MORE: California vote to limit reparations makes eligibility difficult, narrows slaverys impact, experts say

The purpose of these sessions is to educate the public, increase community buy-in, and record residents testimonies in a report the task force can use when making recommendations to the state in its final report due July 2023. The task force released a nearly 500-page interim report in June.

At the community listening session on Friday, 20 attendees spoke about their families migration stories, the harm they suffered from the legacy of slavery and anti-Black racism, and what sorts of reparations programs they would like to see. They discussed how reparations could take the form of financial literacy training, mental health resources and political reform.

PHOTO: Khansa Jones-Muhammad, the vice president of the Los Angeles Reparations Advisory Commission, addresses the crowd at a community listening session at the Pullman Community Art Center in Los Angeles on July 19th, 2022. (Courtesy Marcus Champion)

The community has to lead, Kamilah Moore, chair of the California Reparations Task Force, told ABC News. Under international human rights law the victim group or the community of eligibility should be leading the process for what reparations should look like.

More than a dozen community listening sessions have already been held up and down the state, from Sacramento to San Diego, and they will continue to be held until September. The point is to meet the community where they are at, said Moore.

MORE: California passes landmark law to study proposals for reparations

I feel like we are making history, we are literally writing the script, Chris Lodgson, an organizer with Coalition for a Just and Equitable California, one of the seven community organizations chosen to moderate the community listening sessions, told ABC News.

I feel lucky, I feel blessed, I feel fortunate, I feel proud just to be a part of this history, said Lodgson.

Reparations task force listening tour lays foundation for next steps originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Ella Steen, age 8, helps her father Adam Steen load a Robin Vos dummy on a bungee slingshot on Monday August 8, 2022 in Burlington, Wis.

BURLINGTON - Robin Vos was flung in effigy in a Racine County field during a campaign event Vos' primary opponent held the night before voters will decide whether to grant another term to Wisconsin's longest-serving Assembly speaker.

Adam Steen, who is running against Vos in the Republican primary, is putting into action "Toss Vos," a theme of his campaign that has symbolized the discontent within the GOP base over Vos' refusal to decertify the 2020 election, an impossible and illegal goal that a vocal portion of the base believes could and should happen nearly two years after polls closed.

In a statement, Vos said it is unfortunate how Steen has chosen to spend the final days of his campaign.

"Instead of talking to voters about all the issues that matter to them, he's chosen to engage in an immature publicity stunt that confirms he is not ready to hold public office," Vos wrote.

Steen and GOP gubernatorial candidate Tim Ramthun joined about 25 others at the event held in Vos' hometown of Burlington. "Contestants" flung straw-filled dolls with photos of Vos' face taped to them using a giant, homemade slingshot.

Despite the violent imagery, Steen's campaign said he does not support physically throwing the Assembly Speaker.

"I think this is an absolute blast, we've been working our tails off for the last six months and someone said we need to have some fun, because right now we've done about all we can do," Steen said.

Steen, who unsuccessfully ran for Congressman Paul Ryan's open seat in 2018, said people are ready for a change.

One of those people is Burlington resident Matthew Allen, who helped build the slingshot Sunday night with a few friends. Allen also runs one of the "Toss Vos" Facebook pages.

(Left) Matthew Allan of Burlington, uses the slingshot he built for the Adam Steen rally where they hosted a toss Speaker Robin Vos using a bungee slingshot and a Vos dummy on Monday August 8, 2022 in Burlington, Wis.

He said he voted for Vos every year since 2008, but he doesn't like that Vos has become a career politician.

"You get entrenched, almost feel too obligated to take care of other people," Allen said. "I want more of a citizen politician, someone who will step in for two or four years and go back to their families."

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Michael Gableman, who left the state Supreme Court in 2018 and was hired by Vos in 2021 to review the 2020 election, was scheduled to appear at the event as a "special guest" but decided against attending before the event began.

Gableman has received more than $100,000 in a taxpayer-funded salary from Vos but is now turning on his boss and campaigning with Vos' primary opponent.

Gableman was promoted as attending the event but decided against attending later Monday, according to the Steen campaign.

In an interview with WisconsinEye, Republican Party of Wisconsin chairman Paul Farrow said he did not expect Steen to come close to defeating Vos in the election.

"He has one of the probably best records of constituent relations," Farrow said.

Contact Molly Beck and Corri Hess at molly.beck@jrn.com and chess@gannett.com. Follow on Twitter at @MollyBeck and @CorriHess.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: About 25 attend 'Toss Vos' event to see Robin Vos flung in effigy
Photo credit: Mike Kim

Torena: I can get killed talking to you.

Detective Hannah: You can get killed walking your doggie.



Photo credit: Mike Kim

This exchange in Heat between Al Pacino as Vincent Hannah and Torena, an informant played by Tone Loc, almost seems minor, a few throwaway lines. In the context of the entire film, however, which has a healthy dose of macho existentialism, Hannahs doggie line is practically a mantra, albeit a low key funny one. Camus, but make it comedy.

Heat, Michael Manns seminal 1995 movie about detectives and thieves, is remembered for a lot of things. It was the first movie to pair Pacino and De Niro. It inspired the makers of Grand Theft Auto as well as Christopher Nolan. Its epic shootout in downtown LA was so ultra realistic that the part where Val Kilmer swiftly reloads his weapon is shown as a training video for cadets at Fort Bragg. But at its core, it is deeply poetic and practically literary. Even Roger Ebert praises Manns writing in his original review of the film .

And so, its not completely out of character for Michael Mann, who has the reputation of diving into research for his movies with the intensity of a historian or investigative journalist, to create a sequel to Heat 2 not as a film, but as a novel, out now. He co-wrote it with thriller veteran Meg Gardiner.

The book is both a prequel and a sequel. As it dives into the early life of Neil McCauley (De Niro), we discover how he transformed from a romantic crime man into the stone cold existential thief with no attachments we meet in the beginning of Heat. We see Chris Shiherlis (Val Kilmer) evolve from a Cali boy thief into a criminal mastermind navigating transnational crime syndicates. And we see an always dogged Detective Hannah (Pacino) go after a terrifying villain named Otis Wardell, who could give the bad guys in Silence of the Lambs and Mindhunter universes a run for their fava beans. The book, at 466 pages long, is a hard-boiled, cinematic read that moves as fast as a well-planned heist. If you were obsessed with Heat, youll want Heat 2 to last.

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We chatted with Mann over Zoom while he was in Italy preparing to shoot Ferrari, his twelfth feature film, which stars Adam Driver as Enzo Ferrari. We talked about the new book, writing, CGI and the importance of a characters underwear.

Esquire: Its been 27 years since Heat came out, but my understanding is that youve been sitting with these stories for even longer than that.

Michael Mann: For a long time. Both in terms of the origin stories and then where they might go in life. It's for fundamental reasons for performances, but its also just for myself too. I want to build out characters. Full lives. I know what they're doing when they're eleven. I know Neil McCauley, the Robert De Niro character, experienced anger and violence as a thirteen or fourteen-year-old that created a disastrously low self-esteem despite his strong ego and fights making him dangerous. Vals character, Chris Shiherlis, grew up in Paramount, California with no family. A teenage mother. His father died while she was still pregnant. Hannah (Pacino) grew up in Grant City, Illinois, an urban environment that isn't quite tilting forward into the future. He goes to Vietnam and tries to do law school, which doesn't work, and he realizes that all he has is who hes going after. That's really what he wants to do.

The relationship that McCauley has with a woman and a stepdaughter earlier in his life is not the quality of a man who says have no attachments. In fact hes quite attached, but that produces the Dinero McCauley that we see in Heat.

It was really exciting to push the story forward into the future, particularly to have Chris Shiherlis drive us into a tectonic shift in the nature of criminal activity, from local stores to international organized crime. He goes from basically being a 19th century Bandito into exploiting the early dark web. Were talking free net, around 2000s to 2002, and seeing the possibilities of rapid scalability and total anonymity. The innovation of transnational organized crime. Its that seismic shift I found fascinating.

Chris Shirhelis (Kilmer) has the biggest character arc in the novel. He sort of becomes self-actualized.

That's right. The ambition was to actualize him to the same degree that Hannah and Neil McCauley are completely harmonic, unified people. They are unified within themselves and they're fully conscious. And Chris was not. On one hand, hes sophisticated as hell and disciplined when hes taking scores. When he's not taking scores, as Charlene, the Ashley Judd character said, All you are is a child growing older. He's got a kind of schizophrenic construction there. He evolves right past that into a very actualized character and carries the story forward.

Youve mentioned that Heat 2 will ultimately become a movie. Was that always the intention?

No, the idea was to write a novel and make it large and create this whole world with multiple characters and multiple stories. And that's what always attracted me to the notion of Heat, the movie, was to try and drop an audience into four, five, six, seven, eight lives, and then perceive the world through each of these characters. As you are rotating amongst them it's that person's worldview, its that person's idea.

For my sins, I was an English lit major with an ambition to write. Then I discovered cinema in my junior year of college and decided I wanted to be a writer-director. So to me, it's always been about writing. If Im directing something, Im writing cinematicallyI'm writing with drama, with casting, with light and color and my directions to actors. The same is true with original screenplays like like Heat or Thief or Last of the Mohicans. So the writing was really primarily with the novel, but the ambition is to make a large scale motion picture.

How far along are you with turning Heat 2 into a movie?

I can't say! I start shooting Ferrari on Monday. So my focus now is getting to the starting gate in good shape.

Would you ever consider de-aging characters digitally like Martin Scorseses The Irishman for the prequel parts of Heat 2 that include the De Niro and Pacino characters?

I don't have any judgments about any other director, especially a friend who I admire like Marty. Weve worked together in the past on Aviator, which I produced. But it's not for me. I just don't don't connect with heavy prosthetics or visual effect-laden things. Id also have a problem with the movement of the actors. I mean, Im 79 and I don't move the way I did when I was 39! Im good. But not, you know, a teenager.

Human beings are extremely intelligent animals, but we are animals and we have all kinds of sensibilities and yardsticks in the amygdala that tell us this is true or this is not true, this is good or this is bad. I think people feel a lack of authenticity even though they don't know why, and the net result is that they do not emotionally connect to the movie. Unless you're doing some great comic book movies like some of the Marvel stuffwhich I think is really goodyou can't connect down that channel that opens up. When you're emotionally immersed in a character in a story, your hope is the movie doesn't end soon. That's why I wouldn't consider that kind of technique.

You wrote this book with Meg Gardiner. What was the process of writing a novel with another author?

Well, it was modeled on the way my friend Eric Roth and I co-wrote The Insider and Ali. It's complementary. It's not like you write the odd-numbered words and Ill write all the even-numbered words.

Meg was fantastic and basically said, "Drop me in the deep end of the pool," which I did in terms of immersing her in all material that I haveI never throw anything away. So some of the most personal character stuff that I did with Al and Bob and ValI have all those transcriptions and videos. So I immersed her into these characters so that she could hear their voices in her head. Then I brought her to LA to introduce her to cops I knew and explored the Wardell world that ended up in the sequel portion of the book. But after that, I took the lead in structuring the story. There was a sixty page document that was just the architecture of the story. Every single part of it, every scene, every beat. We built it as something very cinematic. Not visually cinematic, but like a motion picture narrativehaving that drive. That was the ambition early on. Then we did alternating chapters, swayed them back and forth, and hit it up top to give it a unified voice.

The clothes of characters in a Michael Mann movie are so crucial to the character. Can you tell me about your actors being conscious of their characters' style choices, from their suits to their socks and underwear?

Socks and underwear?

I use that example because I remember that you obtained John Dillingers actual socks and underwear for Public Enemies.

That was a fluke! We know Dillinger had a shootout with the FBI at the Bohemian Lodge. So we called them and we found out that they didnt modernize anything. They didnt patch up the bullet holes. They even have the suitcase that he left with Dillingers clothes. So we get it sent to LA. Now as a man, you know you go to a store and you buy some socks. Well, you're expressing what you want. It's really a projection of your character, of your likes and dislikes. So obviously, there are clues about who Dillinger was in his choices of ties and socks. They were surprisingly uniform, yet he liked to have one small figure in it, whether it was socks or ties. For an actor, to be able to actually try on the clothes of the guy youre playing before he was killed in 1934? It's insane. It was really crazy. But yeah, I dont go around looking for the underwear of historical figures for actors.



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Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast

This week we have been forcefully reminded that Donald Trump was, and is, a national security risk unlike any the United States has ever faced.

The FBI search of Trumps Florida retreat, Mar-a-Lago, and the revelations of details of his war with Americas generals as detailed in a preview of a new book from the New Yorkers Susan Glasser and New York Times chief White House correspondent Peter Baker, underscored yet again that Trump, as president, posed a unique threat. The flaws in his character, his ignorance of and contempt for our laws and institutions, and his dubious loyalties made him the most dangerous and powerful man in the world.

And that threat remains, as he seems likely to run for president for a third time. In many ways, its even more grave as Trump and his supporters grow increasingly brazen in their embrace of ideas that could render the nation unable to protect itself against him in the future.

Pelosis Taiwan Trip Isnt Helpful to Anyone But China

Republican howls of protest in the wake of the FBIs search of Trumps Florida residence were as loud as they were cynical, hypocritical, and irresponsible.

They knew full well that Trump had illegally removed classified documents from the White Housebecause not only was it acknowledged, but some of the documents were returned. They knew that to conduct such an operation, the FBI had to obtain a warrant from a judge, demonstrate that there was probable cause that a crime was committed, and almost certainly clear a higher bar than usual both within the Department of Justice and in the court because the target of the search was a former president. They were also aware that there was a clear pattern of destruction of records within the Trump administration in its final days and that credible reports suggested that Trump on a regular basis destroyed documents that he by law should have preserved, sometimes by flushing them down the toilet.

They knew all this but they complained nonetheless because their playbook in such situations is to deflect and project. Facts be damned. Hence, we had statements like House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy warning Attorney General Garland to preserve documents and prepare for an investigation into how he had politicized the Department of Justicean exquisite twofer of simultaneous projection and deflection.

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Similarly, the hue and cry about politicization of the FBI and the Department of Justice was equal parts cynicism and hypocrisy. Trump ran for office, after all, calling for FBI investigations into the handling of classified information on the part of his opponent, Hillary Clinton. (The lock her up chant was a mainstay of Trumps 2016 campaign rallies.) And as president, Trump sought to blackmail a foreign power by improperly using the resources of the U.S. government to dig up dirt on his next opponent, Joe Biden, and Bidens family. In other words, Trump and his party were the ones guilty of politicizing the administration of justice by pursuing largely baseless investigations.

Perhaps most significant is the gross irresponsibility of the GOP defenses of Trumptheir complete renunciation of any claim they once had on being a party that stood for strong U.S. national security.

Trump has been a multi-faceted national security threat since he arrived on the national stage.

President Donald Trump and Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov shake hands as they meet in the Oval Office on May 10, 2017. Russia Foreign Minister Press Office/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

It is an indisputable fact that he reached out to a foreign enemy to help him win the 2016 election. He compromised U.S. national security by naming a national security adviser, Gen. Michael Flynn, about whose foreign ties he had been warned, and who would last only days in office and would later lie to the FBI. Trump again compromised our security when he provided classified information to the Russian foreign minister and ambassador during an infamous spring 2017 Oval Office meeting. He did so again by pushing through clearances for members of his family, including his daughter Ivanka and her husband Jared, who career officials said should not receive them. Then there were Trumps off-the-record discussions with Vladimir Putin, and his casual discussion of classified information at parties at Mar-a-Lagowhich made it a target of foreign spy operations. And he appointed unqualified political hacks, sometimes illegally, to top national security positions including atop the intelligence community.

Further, as Glasser and Bakers reporting again confirms, Trumps relationship with military leaders was fraughtbecause his ideas were so dangerous to U.S. interests.

While the revelation that he condemned generals for not being as loyal to him as Hitlers generals were to the Nazi leader has garnered the most headlines, Trumps problems with military leadership ran much deeper.

1174310091 Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Army General Mark A. Milley listens while U.S. President Donald Trump speaks before a meeting with senior military leaders in the Cabinet Room of the White House in Washington, DC on October 7, 2019. Brendan Smialowski / AFP via Getty Images

The New Yorker article details how General Mark Milleya man who regularly battled with Trump over his desire to use the military to achieve domestic political objectivesnearly resigned rather than continue to deal with an unhinged president. But other reportssuch as those found in former Defense Secretary Mark Espers book, and those gathered while I was researching my upcoming book American Resistancenote that the national security risks included dangerous ideas like promising to leave NATO during his second term, contemplating launching missile attacks against approaching caravans in Mexico, coming close to war with North Korea, and considering the use of the military to seize election machines during his coup attempt.

Fortunately, as Glasser and Baker note, Trumps generals rejected his dangerous ideas as resolutely as they dismissed his emulation of the Third Reich.

Once again, just as national archives officials triggered the investigation into Trumps mishandling of classified information, the career professionals in the U.S. government served as the publics last line of defense against a rogue president. They put the law and their oath to the Constitution first. That is why Trump and other GOP leaders are so committed to a plan to make it easier to fire such officials should they reclaim power.

Youre Going to Miss the Deep State When Its Gone

Why? Precisely because their goal is to politicize the entire government, to place party loyalty ahead of loyalty to the country, to do exactly what they are dishonestly arguing is happening today.

This is a step toward authoritarianism, and a step away from a system of government in which no one is above the lawour current system, which we saw in action in Florida this week. But it is even worse when those who would lead such an eviscerated autocratic state are known to pose, as Trump does, the gravest sort of national security risk. It would be bad enough to see democracy fall. But if it falls to Trump, an inevitable consequence would be that the U.S. would become weaker, our enemies stronger, and the danger to each and every American would grow both from home and from abroad.

For precisely that reason, we should tune out the cheap political theatrics of the GOP. And we must hope that this weeks lawful search at Mar-a-Lago is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to efforts to reveal his crimes and hold him accountable for them.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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In 2019, Meghan Markle announced she guest-edited the September issue of British Vogue, where she "chose a diverse selection of women from all walks of life, each driving impact and raising the bar for equality, kindness, justice, and open mindedness" for the issue's Forces for Change cover. She had specific instructions for the cover shootinstructions that say a lot about how she wants to showcase beauty.

British Vogue wrote that the word "natural" came up multiple times during cover discussions. Peter Lindbergh, who shot the cover, explained to the outlet this was exactly what Meghan's vision was. My instructions from the Duchess were clear: I want to see freckles! Lindbergh said. The photographer said he spoke to Meghan on the phone during the morning of the New York shoot. Well, that was like running through open doors for me. I love freckles.

Lindbergh explained that he prefers shooting women in that style, to showcase their natural beauty. I hate retouching, I hate make-up. I always say, Take the make-up off! Lindbergh said. The number of beautiful women who have asked me to lengthen their legs or move their eyes further apart he laughed. You would not believe. Its a culture of madness.

Meghan selected 15 cover stars, who are all activists and pioneers in their industries. They include model Adwoa Aboah, model Adut Akech, Somali boxer Ramla Ali, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, writer Sinead Burke, actress Gemma Chan, actress Laverne Cox, actress Jane Fonda, actress Salma Hayek, ballet dancer Francesca Hayward, actress Jameela Jamil, writer Chimamanda Adichie, actress Yara Shahidi, activist Greta Thunberg, and model Chrissy Turlington.

Guest Editing the September issue of British Vogue has been rewarding, educational and inspiring," she said, via her SussexRoyal Instagram. "To deep dive into this process, working quietly behind the scenes for so many months, I am happy to now be able to share what we have created."

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Fuel tankers are experiencing their strongest rates in at least 25 years. Suriyapong Thongsawang

Rates for tankers carrying refined fuels reached their highest in at least 25 years.

Fuel tankers earned more than $40,000 a day for the last 14 weeks, Bloomberg reported.

Strong demand for crude oil and longer sailing routes from sanctions have driven the surge.

Tanker rates for refined fuels are at their highest in at least 25 years boosted by strong demand for fuel and longer trading routes after Russia invaded Ukraine, according to media reports.

Fuel tankers earned more than $40,000 a day for the last 14 weeks, Bloomberg reported.

Though demand for fuel has taken a blow recently as fears of a global recession circle investors' minds, there is still strong appetite in the market for Russian energy, especially among Asian buyers. Countries like China and India have been snapping up energy on the cheap from Russia ever since it kicked off its war, putting Moscow on track to earn $285 billion from its oil and gas sales this year.

Higher demand for fuels means increased bookings for tankers, thereby boosting shipping rates.

Meanwhile, Western sanctions on Russian energy and reduced flows of oil, coal and natural gas from Russia to the European Union in retaliation has squeezed supply in the refined product market and raised prices across the board, which has subsequently bolstered tanker rates.

Global benchmark Brent crude futures have risen nearly 43% since this time last year and soared to a near 14-year high this year of more than $130 a barrel in early March.

Tanker rates have also benefitted from hugely disrupted trade routes after sanctions on Russia's exports have diverted flows to new market, particularly in Asia and Latin America from traditional markets such as Western Europe.

Strong tanker rates are likely to see further gains as more sanctions toward Russian oil supplies are due to come into effect later this year.

Read the original article on Business Insider
WASHINGTON  Former President Donald Trump decried the "weaponization of the Justice Department" after the unprecedented FBI search of his Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Florida, on Monday as part of a federal investigation into allegations he illegally removed classified documents from the White House.

He compared the search  which happened to fall on the 48th anniversary of President Richard Nixon's resignation  to the 1972 break-in of the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate Hotel.

"Here, in reverse, Democrats broke into the home of the 45th President of the United States," Trump said in a statement.

But historians, legal analysts and former FBI officials said the reframing of the FBI action as a political attack is inaccurate  and ignores the potentially significant legal peril the former president is facing.

The burden of proof to execute a warrant like this would be, for all intents and purposes, unprecedented in the history of Department of Justice, said Garrett Graff, a historian and author of Watergate: A New History.

Under the law, any search would need to be authorized by a federal judge after finding probable cause that a crime had been committed and that evidence of the crime exists in the location to be searched.

Trump himself confirmed that FBI agents opened a safe at Mar-a-Lago as part of the court-approved search.

Experts: Mar-a-Lago search indicates robust investigation

Brandon Van Grack, a former senior Justice Department lawyer and prosecutor, said the FBI search indicates that there has been a significant investigation well underway into possible criminal violations by Trump and ample evidence of wrongdoing.

Mishandling of classified information, specifically statute 18 U.S. Code 1924, carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and has been used to prosecute former government officials, Van Grack told USA TODAY.

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"The fact that they obtained a search warrant and knew what to look for suggests that the FBI has conducted numerous interviews. Which is all to say that there is a very real risk of criminal charges for Trump, said Van Grack, who was a key member of special counsel and former FBI Director Robert Mueller's investigation into possible collusion by Russia and the Trump campaign in the 2016 presidential election.

Opinion: Why the FBI searching Trump's Mar-a-Lago home may be a sign of things to come

Former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani said Trump also could be facing significant criminal exposure if he mishandled or destroy government records.

The most likely charge that would apply in that case, he said, would be Title 18, U.S. Code 2071, which involves concealment or destruction of U.S. government documents. That carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison and, if he were convicted, could bar Trump from ever holding elective office again.

In photos: FBI search Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago home in Florida

McCarthy casts search as political, calls out Garland

Republicans immediately slammed the FBI's search as political retaliation from the Biden administration, even as the details remained unclear.

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, in a tweet referencing Attorney General Merrick Garland, vowed to conduct "immediate oversight of this department" if Republicans regain control of Congress and "leave no stone unturned."

"Attorney General Garland, preserve your documents and clear your calendar," McCarthy said.

'Defund the FBI': Trump supporters react to Mar-a-Lago search

For the Justice Department to authorize such a politically sensitive operation, Garland and FBI leadership would have almost certainly signed off on it, Graff said.

The search suggests an investigation is far along, he said, and added that he would not be surprised if the Justice Department had already determined it had enough evidence to charge Trump with a crime before agents initiated it.

The idea that they proceeded to a search warrant is a remarkable testament, both to the state of the investigation but also the level of cooperation that they believed that they would get from the target, Graff said.

Thats in striking contrast to the Watergate investigation, in which the FBI and special prosecutor negotiated with the Nixon White House attorneys to provide documents.

That is clearly not the case here, Graff said.

Just the basics: What's happening at Trump's Mar-A-Lago home? Was the FBI there? Answers to your questions

The entrance to former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate is shown Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, in Palm Beach, Fla. Trump said in a lengthy statement that the FBI was conducting a search of his Mar-a-Lago estate and asserted that agents had broken open a safe.

Nor should this have been unexpected, said former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, given the large number of criminal investigations into Trump.

"It's hugely significant, but also, I think, predictable to a certain degree," McCabe said. "I think it's foreseeable in that way, it's totally shocking in the context of like, I don't believe this has ever happened before."

McCabe agreed that the search would have been a major deal within the Justice Department and FBI before its execution.

"This is not, you know, a couple of agents showing up at some judges door in the middle of the night to get an emergency warrant," he told CNN. "This is something that would have been planned out and reevaluated and legally examined from every possible angle by the entirety of the leadership structure (of) both organizations."

The whole story: Trump Mar-A-Lago home in Florida searched by FBI in probe into handling of classified documents

Former Trump press secretary recalls other lapses

Former White House officials under Trump also pushed back at Trump's characterization of the search as being politically motivated.

Stephanie Grisham, one of Trump's former press secretaries, said Trump was careless and haphazard about handling classified documents  and when talking about classified information. Either he had no clue, she told USA TODAY, or didnt care, even though she said it posed a potential national security threat.

Grisham said she was worried about Trumps talking about classified information and operations, citing the now-infamous dinner at Mar-a-Lago with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

They were being briefed about the missiles in North Korea, and documents were being handed to him and all these people at Mar-a-Lago were posting it to Facebook, she said.

Theres a lot I'm not going to say because I don't want to jeopardize national security, she said. But she said she was troubled by another apparent lapse during a photo op with Trump at the U.S.-Mexico border.

I was standing with him, and he started immediately detailing a bunch of the technology advancements we had started (to counter border incursions) and had to be stopped. We had to step forward and be like, Hey, sir. 

Grisham also said Trump improperly talked to Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte about how many nuclear submarines the U.S. had in Korean waters in 2017. And certainly, when he did the announcement of the killing of (ISIS leader) al-Baghdadi, he made many comments that were highly classified, or just really tactically sensitive. Ive seen him do it over and over and over again.

On the document front, she said, there are two ways in which what Trump could have broken the law. One is the mishandling of classified information. I saw him mishandle presidential records a lot, she said.

The other potential legal liability, she said, was in destroying public records and breaking the law with the Presidential Records Act.

'It's unprecedented'

Van Grack, the former Justice Department official, said there is still a very high hurdle to criminally prosecuting a former president for violating Section 1924, because it requires that the removal of classified information occur without authority, and the president of the United States would have had that authority.

The search was "stunning," said Matthew Dallek, a longtime presidential historian who has written extensively on modern-era politics and presidents.

"As with everything else with Trump, it's unprecedented,"

Contributing: Francesca Chambers

Reach Joey Garrison on Twitter @joeygarrison and Josh Meyer at @JoshMeyerDC.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump compares FBI search to Watergate; experts say that is inaccurate
Federal agents on Monday searched former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Florida, as part of a federal investigation into allegations he removed classified documents from the White House when he left office, two people familiar with the search said.

Trump did not say why the agents appeared to be at his Florida property but, in an emailed statement, added that "this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate."

Trump is under investigation by the Justice Department for removing presidential records from the White House and storing them at Mar-a-Lago for up to a year, a potentially serious violation of the law if the records were classified. Trump has denounced that investigation, saying he was entitled to take the records.

Watergate 'in reverse'?: Historians and legal analysts pan Trump's claims and point to legal peril ahead

Latest from Mar-a-Lago: What's happening at Trump's Mar-a-Lago home? Was the FBI there? Answers to your questions

Trump also claimed that agents searched his safe, but did not elaborate. They even broke into my safe, he said in his statement.

Trump and many of his associates are also under scrutiny by the FBI, the Justice Department, the Internal Revenue Service and other federal and state agencies for alleged wrongdoing during his four-year administration and related to his various business entities.

Former President Donald Trump speaks during an event with Joe Lombardo, Clark County sheriff and Republican candidate for Nevada governor, and republican Nevada Senate candidate Adam Laxalt, Friday, July 8, 2022, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Federal law enforcement officials had no immediate comment on whether agents were at Mar-a-Lago and if so, for what reason.

Searches and probable cause

Under the law, any search would need to be authorized by a judge after finding evidence of probable cause that a crime had been committed, and that there's probable cause to believe that the evidence of the crime exists in the place to be searched, said David Kelley, the former interim U.S. Attorney and deputy U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York in Manhattan.

That a judge is making a finding of probable cause to believe that a crime has been committed and there's evidence of that in the President's own safe, then that's pretty significant, Kelley told USA TODAY.

Story continues

What we don't know: FBI searching former president's home is blockbuster news. Now what?

Kelley said legal protocol would be to wait for someone to open the safe, even if Trump had to designate a proxy to do so if he was not on the premises during the search.

Hes saying that they broke into his safe. If they wanted to get into a safe and he wasn't worried about what's in it, why wouldn't he just say, Okay, go ahead and go into my safe,  asked Kelley.

The Justice Department declined to comment Monday.

FBI and 'unprecedented' raid

Speaking on FOX News, Trump's son, Eric, called the search "more political persecution of Donald J. Trump. They can't stand that Americans love him."

"The idea that the FBI or any other law enforcement agency is raiding a former presidents house is stunning, period,  and unprecedented. Even for Trump, said Matthew Dallek, a longtime presidential historian who has written extensively on modern-era politics and presidents.

If the FBI or any other federal agencies are raiding the former presidents home, I would presume it is for a very active criminal investigation, or investigations, Dallek told USA TODAY. The FBI raids homes typically for hardened criminals and mobsters. It is an iconic image dating back decades. If a former Presidents home is surrounded by FBI or other federal agents, that is certainly an even more iconic image.

Secret service agents stand at the gate of Mar-a-Lago after the FBI issued warrants at August 8, 2022 in Palm Beach, Fla.

More on MAL: DOJ plans to investigate handling of White House records sent to Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort

The FBI notified the Secret Service in advance of the law enforcement action, indicating that they had a search warrant for the property, a person familiar with the action said.

The official who is not authorized to comment publicly said the Secret Service facilitated the FBI's entry to the property but did not participate in the search. The source did not characterize the law enforcement action as a raid, emphasizing that officials were notified in advance of the FBI's arrival.

As unprecedented as such action on a former president home is, Bradley P. Moss, a national security lawyer, said Trumps handling of documents justified the search.

No one, not even Donald Trump, is above the law, he says. Properly marked classified documents were taken to Mr. Trumps personal residence after he left office and were stored in an unsecured manner for months. That is a clear violation of the law.

Last month, it was disclosed that federal prosecutors had been questioning witnesses about the conduct of the former president as part of an inquiry into an effort to overturn the 2020 election, a person familiar with the matter said.

The action is part of a more aggressive review of attempts by the former president's allies to intervene in the election by substituting fake electors to tilt the vote in key states and to pressure former Vice President Mike Pence to block the certification of President Joe Biden's election.

President Donald Trump delivers a statement on Syria from the Mar-a-Lago estate in West Palm Beach, Fla.

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While the source said prosecutors have recently questioned witnesses about Trump, the person declined to describe the queries in detail.

DOJ approval of FBI raid

Former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe told CNN on Monday night that the search warrant issued for Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence would have been planned out and reevaluated and legally examined at the highest levels of the FBI and Justice Department.

I can't overemphasize how big of a deal this would have been within the Department of Justice and the FBI, said McCabe. This is not, you know, a couple of agents showing up at some judges door in the middle of the night to get an emergency warrant.

This is something that would have been planned out and reevaluated and legally examined from every possible angle by the entirety of the leadership structure (of) both organizations," he said.

Capitol attack: Pressure campaigns, predictable violence: What we learned from all eight Jan. 6 hearings

Trump allies: Georgia election investigation heats up. Giuliani, Eastman facing dates with grand jury

In explaining the process of obtaining a federal search warrant, McCabe said any prosecutor would have to go before a judge and convince that judge that there is probable cause to believe both that a federal crime has been committed, and that evidence of that crime is contained within the space you have described in your warrant request.

McCabe, who is now a law enforcement analyst for CNN, was fired by Trump in 2018 shortly before he was planning to retire from the FBI. He charged the firing was politically motivated.

The examination of Trump's actions in the run-up to the Jan. 6 insurrection was first disclosed by The Washington Post, which cited four people familiar with the matter.

Garland on Trump and Jan. 6

Attorney General Merrick Garland, in a NBC News last month, did not exempt Trump from federal scrutiny in the Jan. 6 investigation, saying that federal prosecutors will pursue "anyone who was criminally responsible."

Attorney General: Garland vows to pursue charges on 'anyone' criminally responsible for Jan. 6 when pressed on Trump

"We pursue justice without fear or favor," Garland told NBC when pressed on whether that could include Trump. "I'll say again that we will hold accountable anyone who is criminally responsible for attempting to interfere with the... legitimate, lawful transfer of power from one administration to the next."

President Trump did not handle classified documents properly. I witnessed it, former Trump White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham told USA TODAY. I saw him on, I dont know, how many occasions ripping up documents, throwing some on the floor, ripping some up and putting them in his pocket, not ripping some of them up and putting them in his pocket.

Grisham watched Trump mishandle documents while they were on a plane together from Mar-a-Lago to Washington on their way to the Middle East.

Those could have been classified, or maybe they weren't. I don't know," she said. "But it's still mishandling documents. Anything the president technically handles is considered sensitive.

Last month, federal investigators searched the home of former assistant attorney general Jeffrey Clark, who drafted a letter to officials in six states to overturn their election results. And authorities seized the cellphone of John Eastman, one of Trump's personal lawyers who developed a scheme to have then-Vice President Pence singlehandedly reject electors from states Joe Biden won. Pence refused to carry out such a plan.

Pence's former chief of staff, Marc Short, has acknowledged that he had testified before a federal grand jury.

More: Rudy Giuliani seeking to delay Georgia grand jury appearance, cites heart condition

House GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy accused the Justice Department of reaching "an intolerable state of weaponized politicization."

"When Republicans take back the House, we will conduct immediate oversight of this department, follow the facts, and leave no stone unturned," he tweeted. "Attorney General Garland, preserve your documents and clear your calendar."

Several former Trump officials appeared on FOX News to denounce the search as partisan and unwarranted.

"It's unfortunately crossed the Rubicon to some extent where previous administrations are now investigated ... by the next administration," Matthew Whitaker, former acting attorney general under Trump, told FOX News. "It's something (found) in a banana republic. It's not the United States of America."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump: FBI search his Mar-a-Lago home, open safe in documents probe
As we face another election year, we can look back on an election 70 years ago, when in a crisis, accelerated by demagoguery, the two major political parties responded with responsible candidates.

President Harry Trumans 1948 upset election victory made sense, because there was no reason to defeat Truman. He had checked Stalin in Europe with the Marshall Plan, which also revitalized the U.S. economy, as we supplied materials needed for the rebuilding of Europe. The prosperity lasted until the oil shocks of the 1970s.

The front page of the Nov. 5, 1952, Tennessean announces Dwight D. Eisenhower's win in the the presidential election.

By 1952, despite the piping prosperity, the country seemed adrift with a seemingly unwinnable war in Korea. Truman was unpopular, particularly after firing the insubordinate Gen. Douglas MacArthur. Sen. Joe McCarthy and others were making headlines with reckless charges and witch hunts regarding alleged Communists in government; none were found. And Americans were justifiably worried that the Soviet Union developed the atomic bomb. Truman would not say that he was running but hoped for a draft.

Both parties wanted one candidate: the most popular American, Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, known as Ike, then Supreme Allied Commander of NATO. They sent delegations to convince him to run. Time Life publisher Henry Luce and Massachusetts Sen. Henry Cabot Lodge were successful. They argued that if he did not run  and as a Republican  their partys nominee would be Ohio Sen. Robert Taft, who was too conservative for the country and an isolationist who opposed NATO and the policy of containing the Soviet Union, which Ike had helped create. Ike gave Luce and Lodge permission to advance a campaign and was nominated at the July Republican National Convention.

Hear more Tennessee voices: Get the weekly opinion newsletter for insightful and thought-provoking columns.

Democrats met two weeks later. The candidate with most delegates was Tennessee Sen. Estes Kefauver, who had become the first political media star, chairing televised hearings that exposed the existence of organized crime. But Kefauver was anathema to fellow Southerners for his support for federal civil rights legislation. He offended another important element of the party with his hearings: the big-city political machines, many of which were tied to the mobsters exposed by Kefauver. They nominated someone who was not a candidate, Illinois Gov. Adlai Stevenson, who electrified the nation with one of the most eloquent speeches in American history. Rather than addressing policy, it was a call to greatness. Among the brilliant phrases:

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"The Democratic party is the people's party  not the labor party, not the farmers' party, not the employers' party  it is the party of no one because it is the party of everyone."

The ordeal of the twentieth century, the bloodiest, most turbulent era of the Christian age, is far from over. Sacrifice, patience, understanding and implacable purpose may be our lot for years to come.

In this July 25, 1952, file photo, Illinois Gov. Adlai Stevenson addresses the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

"Let's talk sense to the American people. Let's tell them the truth, that there are no gains without pains."

"Better we lose the election than mislead the people, and better we lose than misgovern the people." How many politicians would say that today?

The speech was a model for John F. Kennedys brilliant Inaugural Address in 1961.

Ike won easily. He ended the Korean War after Stalins death and provided a steady hand for peace and prosperity. He lessened the partisanship and worked well with the Democratic congressional majority. In his farewell address, he warned that the U.S. was spending too much on defense, creating a military-industrial complex that forced weapons to be manufactured whether they were needed or not.

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In 1960, Stevenson was contacted by the Soviet ambassador, who said his government believed Stevenson to be a man of peace, and they were willing to back him financially in another run for president. He declined their offer and reported it to the White House immediately. Compare that to the relationship our most recent president had with the Russian dictator who did more than anyone to elect him. As U.N. ambassador two years later, Stevenson famously confronted the Soviet ambassador over missiles in Cuba. What was called the Adlai Stevenson moment was the model for a "Star Trek" movie confrontation years later.

In a difficult time, both major parties responded with responsible leaders. Those were the days.

Robert Evins Pickard is an instructor of U.S. and global history at Tennessee State University.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Longing for the days when responsible candidates ran for president
It's a pretty sure bet that as New York Republicans and Conservatives denounced the FBI on Tuesday for searching former President Donald Trump's Florida home, they never expected the unlikely agreement of Andrew M. Cuomo.

The former governor joined the chorus of GOP outrage expressed via press conferences and tweets at FBI agents swarming over Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate on Monday but from his own  and different  perspective. As Republican congressional candidates like Nick Langworthy and Carl Paladino of the 23rd District lambasted "banana republic" tactics, Cuomo worried the action will backfire on his own Democrats.

"DOJ must immediately explain the reason for its raid & it must be more than a search for inconsequential archives," he said on Twitter, "or it will be viewed as a political tactic and undermine any future credible investigation & legitimacy of January 6 investigations."

Cuomo's worries seemed to coincide with the criticism of Langworthy, who summoned reporters to a downtown press conference. He noted reports of "cocktail napkins, phone lists and birthday dinner menus" as items seized in the action, claimed  without proof  that President Biden approved the move, and promised to oppose alleged FBI overreach if elected to Congress.

"Now, as President Trump has signaled he is likely to run for election again, and Republicans are looking at a huge red wave in this mid-term election," Langworthy said, "Biden's Department of Justice raids the home of his likely, top political opponent.

"In Biden's America," he added, "the FBI raids our home over a cocktail napkin."

Langworthy, running in a Western New York/Southern Tier district which Trump won by 20 points in 2020, called Democrats "the party of tyranny and police state tactics" as he also blasted the administration's plan to hire 87,000 new Internal Revenue Service agents.

"Trump always said it best when he said 'They're coming after me because I'm standing up for you,' " he said.

Paladino joined in the chorus, tweeting his criticism of the FBI under a Biden administration and also invoking Trump's name.

"The leadership of the FBI, under the Biden administration, has attacked parents but done nothing as crime skyrockets in our streets," he said. "President Trump is a friend, and I will stand by him.

"When elected to Congress, I will work to save this nation from these disordered government agencies' attack on citizens' right," he added.

State Conservative Chairman Gerard Kassar also joined the chorus, issuing a statement saying the FBI should have "a damn good reason" to "invade the home of a former President of the United States."

Meanwhile, Paladino on Tuesday received the endorsement of former gubernatorial candidate Rob Astorino, a one-time Westchester County executive. He also told former Trump aide Steve Bannon on his "War Room" podcast that he will introduce resolutions on his first day in Congress to impeach Biden, Homeland Security Secretary Antonio Mayorkas and Attorney General Merrick Garland.
Attendees honor the memory of Susan Elaine Donald on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2022, outside of the house where her body was found.

On a balmy Saturday evening on Greenvilles South Leach Street, upwards of 40 people gathered for a dual purpose  to remember Susan Elaine Donald, who was found dead in an abandoned home in July, and to call for change.

Donald, 68, of Greenville, died after she was deprived of oxygen from strangulation, and after an autopsy, her death was ruled a homicide.

Ricky Dick McCullough, 63, of Greenville, was charged with criminal sexual conduct and murder.

A somber crowd gathered as Shirley Caesars I Remember Mama played over an outdoor speaker. Attendees included friends, family, neighbors, and state Rep. Chandra Dillard (D-Greenville), who said she came to support Donalds family.

Previous reporting: Greenville woman found dead in abandoned home was strangled, coroner says

The abandoned property where Donald was found is next door to the home of Stacy Donald, Susan Donalds daughter.

Im going to make sure that the family that lives next door to this house does not have to walk out of their house and see this house, said Bruce Wilson, who organized the event. Wilson, the founder and CEO of Fighting Injustice Together, spoke from a podium at the head of Stacy Donalds driveway, just feet from the abandoned structure where Susan Donalds body was found. This is unacceptable. This house  something needs to be done with it.

Wilson convened the gathering to call attention to Donalds murder, which he said received little media coverage, and demand changes in the wake of her death, starting with the demolition of the abandoned home.

The home is privately owned, and Wilson acknowledged the citys options for dealing with it are limited, though he described positive conversations with Greenville Mayor Knox White and Chief of Police J.H. Thompson.

South Carolina death penalty: Death penalty cases are plagued with issues, including misconduct and improper evidence.

Wilson, who did not name the property owner, said that if overtures to the individual did not result in the houses destruction, he would consider filing a lawsuit on behalf of Donalds family.

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If he doesnt do something quickly, then hes going to have to pay a hefty bill, Wilson said. Im not going to let this family be traumatized every time they come out of their house.

Wilson also questioned a criminal justice system that allowed McCullough to walk free after serving just eight years of a 20-year prison sentence. He said McCullough had been incarcerated earlier this year for failing to register as a sex offender but had subsequently been released.

Two months later is when he murdered Ms. Donald, Wilson said. So I have some unique questions for the parole board.

The next speaker, community liaison Mata Crawford, argued that a lack of investment in Donalds neighborhood had enabled the crime.

I see a streetlight down here on one hand that they say doesnt work, and another streetlight that doesnt even have a bulb, she said. I see a house where a lady was murdered and nobodys trying to do anything about it. Theres an alley behind me that runs all the way down across this neighborhood behind these peoples house and theres no protection. Theres not a fence. Theres not a light. It could have been a child.

Other speakers, including community activist Tikeeta Wallace and members of Donalds family, took the opportunity to remember Donald, a beloved mother, grandmother, neighbor and friend, and reflect on her contribution to her community.

Like Wilson, Wallace lamented the paucity of media coverage of the murder.

Nobody knows the story of how beautiful Susan Donald is, Wallace said through tears. No one knows her personality. No one knows how she made her community smile. No one knows that she was the big mama around here.

Donalds son, Casey Donald, also spoke. He described his mother as a loving, caring person who urged him to love everybody.

I hope justice gets served, he said.

The speakers concluded their remarks with a candlelight vigil. Wallace sang as the assembled crowd bowed their heads over their candles. The event ended, as it had begun, with music.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Community remembers Susan Elaine Donald, calls for change after death
BAGHDAD (AP)  Demonstrators blocked roads as protests broke out in southern Iraq on Monday after power outages left many without electricity during scorching peak summer heat.

Temperatures reached 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit), nearly matching last year's record high. Southern provinces, where the heat wave is most intense in Iraq, suspended working hours.

The Electricity Ministry last week announced a state of alert, anticipating outages as temperatures rise.

In the oil-rich province of Basra, dozens of people took to the streets for a third straight day and burned tires, blocking the main road to the provincial capital, to protest the power cuts.

While protests against power cuts took place in the south, the followers of Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr entered their ninth day of a sit-in outside the Iraqi parliament building to demand early elections.

Many protesters in Basra said they supported al-Sadr's protest and demands and said they were tired of rampant government corruption. Protests in the south are common in the summer. In 2018, protests over the lack of basic services turned violent. In 2019, they paved the way for mass anti-government demonstrations in the capital.

It's not the first time we protest and it won't be the last, said Ali Hussein, 35, in Basra. We are continuing our protests for electricity and water, which are very basic demands.

Of al-Sadr, Hussein said: We support him, and we ask that he punish the corrupt.

The protests erupted after the collapse of the electricity grid in six southern provinces due to excessive demand amid high temperatures. Basra Gov. Asaad Al Eidani said the latest outages were due to a fire at a power station.

In the holy city of Najaf, a weapons depot exploded in the heat. It had belonged to the Popular Mobilization Forces, a state-sanctioned network of paramilitary groups.

Protesters began their sit-in at 3 a.m. Monday, frustrated and unable to sleep in the heat without electricity.

Iraq relies on neighboring Iran to meet nearly a third of its energy needs during peak summer months. Iraq, a top oil exporter, has the resources to meet energy needs but suffers from a lack of investment in the infrastructure needed to capture its natural gas resources.
The FBI's execution of a search warrant Monday at former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida has prompted questions about the methods federal law enforcement officials use in their investigations.

Here are answers.

How does a federal search warrant work?

The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects against unreasonable searches and seizures. However, federal law enforcement officials may seek search warrants if they believe criminal evidence they seek could be moved, concealed, altered or destroyed if they used less intrusive measures to obtain it.

First, they must swear, under oath, to a series of facts in an affidavit to a federal magistrate judge or district court judge in the area where the warrant is to be executed. The application must show "probable cause" that a crime has been committed and that evidence of the crime is likely to be found at the location to be searched.

In this case, the warrant could have been approved by a judge in Washington, D.C., because the FBI investigation is believed to focus on classified White House documents, said Columbia Law School professor John Coffee.

Search warrant applications limit the search to the specific evidence being sought  a safeguard aimed at preventing investigators from conducting overly broad searches.

The FBI search of Donald Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate marked a dramatic escalation of law enforcement scrutiny of the former president.

Search warrants are not an indication someone is guilty.

FBI agents seeking search warrants involving high-level officials often will consult with federal prosecutors before proceeding.

"For someone like the former president, it is highly likely that investigators would review a search warrant application at the highest levels of the Department of Justice," said Stephen Saltzburg, a law professor at George Washington University and a former U.S. deputy assistant attorney general.

Search warrants are secret until federal investigators execute them. And they can't be challenged by the person whose home, business or other location is searched.

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"It can be a complete surprise," Saltzburg said. "It usually is."

After the warrant has been executed, investigators must file a document with the court that lists each piece of evidence that was seized. They must also leave an inventory of the seizures at the location where the search was conducted.

Search warrants may be challenged in court afterward if there is evidence investigators failed to meet the probable-cause requirement or otherwise misled the judge who approved the warrant.

In a federal indictment unsealed earlier this month, federal prosecutors charged members of the Louisville Metro Police Department with falsifying the affidavit they filed to obtain a search warrant for the home of Breonna Taylor, who was shot and killed by officers who executed the warrant.

Such allegations of law enforcement misconduct "are very rare, but they do happen," Saltzburg said.

What's a subpoena?

Federal law enforcement officials issue subpoenas  legal demands for evidence  when there's less potential that the material might be destroyed or hidden.

Unlike search warrants, the person who's served with a subpoena may file a court motion to quash the demand on grounds that it's overly intrusive or burdensome to provide the information being sought.

There's no public indication Trump was subpoenaed for the material FBI agents seized in Monday's search. Andrew Weissmann, a professor at the NYU School of Law and a former lead prosecutor in Robert Muellers Special Counsels Office, said U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland likely asked FBI investigators why a search warrant and not a subpoena was necessary for the material sought from Trump.

"He must have gotten a really compelling answer that there was a danger the material would not be provided in response to a subpoena," Weissmann said.

Attorneys representing Trump have filed court challenges to numerous subpoenas. Among them were legal demands for Trump's financial and business records by a congressional committee and the New York Attorney General's Office.

A New York court ordered Trump to pay a contempt fine after he failed to comply with the attorney general's subpoena. The court subsequently lifted the contempt finding.

Top DOJ officials probably approved sear: Ex-Bush AG Gonzales says Mar-a-Lago search likely had approval from highest level- live updates

Trump to dine with House GOP caucus: Donald Trump to meet with House Republicans following FBI search of Mar-a-Lago home

Watergate parallel?: Watergate 'in reverse'? Historians and legal analysts pan Trump's claims and point to legal peril ahead

How do federal grand juries work?

The Fifth Amendment of the U.S Constitution provides that no one "shall be held to answer for a capital or otherwise infamous crime" without a presentment or indictment voted by a grand jury.

If federal investigators gather sufficient evidence to proceed in court with a criminal case against Trump, the former president would likely be charged in a federal grand jury indictment. There has been no public sign that such a case is imminent.

Potential grand jurors are summoned to court to serve on panels for varying time periods. A grand jury consists of 23 people, and votes of 12 members are required to charge someone with a federal crime.

Grand juries have authority to issue subpoenas that require testimony by specific witnesses. Successful challenges of such grand jury subpoenas are rare, Saltzburg said.

Prosecutors typically question witnesses who appear before grand juries. Grand jurors themselves may also take part in the questioning.

Grand jury proceedings are secret. But witnesses who testify before the panels are not barred from discussing their testimony.

"Grand juries can gather a lot of information before anyone knows about the proceeding," Saltzburg said. "It's an enormously powerful investigative tool."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: FBI search of Trump Mar-a-Lago home raises questions. We have answers.
A man and woman from Stroudsburg have been found guilty of distributing controlled substances resulting in death, the Department of Justice announced Thursday.

According to a release from the United States Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Jeremy Edward Johnson, 31, and Susan Melissa Nickas, 47, both of Stroudsburg, were found guilty of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl within the Middle District of Pennsylvania, resulting in the death of a person.

The decision came down after an eight-day trial before U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion.

United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam noted that jurors deliberated for approximately two hours before rendering guilty verdicts against Johnson and Nickas for the Dec. 11, 2020 death of a 32-year-old Monroe County man. Johnson and Nickas were also found guilty of aiding and abetting each other in a Dec. 10, 2020 distribution of heroin and fentanyl resulting in that death.

Prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's Office presented testimony from expert witnesses, including forensic toxicologist Dr. Michael Coyer, who opined that the victim's death resulted stemmed the use of heroin and fentanyl, and a Pennsylvania State Police forensic chemist who analyzed drugs found at the scene of the death.

Additional testimony was provided by officers and detectives from the Monroe County District Attorney's Office, the PSP, the Pocono Township Police Department, the FBI's Scranton office, and an FBI special agent from the Pittsburgh office.

The charges come from a joint investigation involving the FBI in Scranton, the PSP, and the Monroe County District Attorney's Office.

Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Olshefski and Sean Camoni prosecuted the case.

Detective Kim Lippincott noted that pursuing a case of drug delivery resulting in death is a complex and difficult matter, but one which the District Attorney's office  which is currently working on several such cases  takes very seriously, especially in the current climate of the opioid epidemic.

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"Generally, these cases are very hard to prove, but we're doing everything that we can to gather as much information after someone passes from an overdose to lead to a successful prosecution if we can," Lippincott said. "That's ultimately our goal, to hold somebody accountable. The victim paid the ultimate price of drug addiction; they are dead, so we really work hard for their families and the people that are left behind."

Of interest Monroe DA: COVID-19 and complicated case elements delay trial in Kerrigan Rohsler's death

From 2015 to 2019, Monroe County saw 26 cases of drug delivery resulting in death, accounting for 2.99% of the state's total of 871 deaths. While counties like York and Lancaster account for over 11% of drug delivery resulting in death charges each for the commonwealth overall, Monroe comes close to the ten counties with the highest incident rates.

The maximum penalty allowed under law for the aforementioned charges is life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine.

The Department of Justice notes that the judge issuing the sentences must consider and weigh a number of factors including the nature and seriousness of the offense, the history and characteristics of the defendant, and the need to punish the defendant, protect the public and provide for the defendants educational, vocational and medical needs.

Due to these factors, the maximum penalty allowed is not necessarily an accurate indicator of the defendants' potential sentences.

The case was brought as part of a district-wide initiative to combat the nationwide heroin and fentanyl epidemic. Led by the U.S. Attorney's Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.

In addition, the case was part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program, a joint federal, state, and local operation that is described as "the centerpiece of the Department of Justices violent crime reduction efforts."

PSN utilizes numerous stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime issues in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses efforts on the most violent offenders, partnering with locally-based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This article originally appeared on Pocono Record: Man, woman from Stroudsburg found guilty in drug delivery death
The Parvati idol was first reported missing from the Nadanapureshwarar Sivan temple in 1971

A statue that was stolen in 1971 from a temple in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu has been traced to New York, police say.

The 12th Century idol of Hindu goddess Parvati was found at the Bonhams Auction House, they said.

Bonhams is a privately owned international auction house which is headquartered in London.

A senior police official said the Tamil Nadu police's Idol Wing has "readied papers" to bring the idol back.

Over the past few years, India has amplified efforts to bring back idols and other artefacts which were stolen or smuggled from temples.

In February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that "more than 200 precious idols" have been successfully brought back to India since 2014.

In 2020, the UK returned three bronze sculptures stolen from a Tamil Nadu temple more than 40 years ago to the Indian government.

One of the most stunning pieces returned in the past few years was a bronze Nataraja idol, which shows the Hindu god Shiva in dancing form. The statue, which was priced at $5.1m (4.2m), was more than 900 years old and had been bought by the National Gallery of Australia in 2008.

The Parvati idol from Tamil Nadu that the police recently found was first reported missing from the Nadanapureshwarar Sivan temple in 1971.

Investigation began in 2019 after a temple trustee filed a police complaint. The investigation was led by the Idol Wing of the Tamil Nadu police, which traces missing artefacts.

The idol, which measures about 52cm in height, was one among five idols missing from the temple.

Police said this idol is valued at $212,575 (175,914). It shows the goddess in a standing position, wearing a crown of rings kept atop each other.

The patterns in the crown are repeated in the necklaces, armbands, girdle and garment, embellishing the bronze texture, the police description said.

"The sculpture is a testament to the technical genius of the artist, epitomizing the confident and time-honoured aesthetic canon of the Chola empire," the Idol Wing said in a statement. The Chola empire ruled last parts of southern India from the 10th Century to the 13th Century.

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Police sought the opinion of an expert to compare a photograph of the idol with the one on sale at Bonhams Auction House.

"Therefore, we are entitled to claim ownership of the idol as India is a party to UNESCO'S World Heritage Convention, 1972," they said.

Bonhams has not issued a statement yet.
Kevin McCarthy, the top Republican in the U.S. House of Representatives, was in Rhode Island on Saturday to raise money and whip up GOP support for 2nd Congressional District candidate Allan Fung.

"Great day with a great candidate. Lets turn #RI02 red @AllanFungRI," McCarthy, of California, tweeted around 4 p.m. with a photo of himself and Fung dressed in nearly matching white shirts, khaki pants and navy blue blazers, standing on a manicured lawn overlooking Narragansett Bay.

Allan Fung

After staying silent about the visit for two days, Fung on Monday night said he introduced the GOP leader to "business owners of all political persuasions."

"Ive been clear about how, in representing the district first and foremost, I wont always be with the mainstream of the party on certain issues," Fung wrote in a news release. "The Leader expects nothing less than to put my constituents first, and said publicly hes going to make sure I'm on the most important committees to do the most good for those of us here at home."

"It's time to lift everyone up here in Rhode Island, and I'm going to work really hard across all party lines and across ideological spectrums to work for you."

Election 2022 Updates: McCarthy visits Fung in RI. The latest news in the highest-profile races

But the Democrats hoping to succeed retiring Rep. Jim Langevin in Washington next year blasted the alliance.

MAGA Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy supports privatizing Social Security, repealing the Affordable Care Act, and passing a national abortion ban, " Patricia Socarras, spokeswoman for Seth Magaziner wrote in an email. "The fact McCarthy is campaigning for Allan Fung in RI confirms what we already knew  Fung and the extremist Republicans would be a disaster for Rhode Island seniors, Rhode Island workers and Rhode Island women.

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Bryan McNamara, spokesman for Sarah Morgenthau, wrote that Fung is rolling out the red carpet for Kevin McCarthy and his radical far-right agenda, proving once again he is out of touch with the voters of the Second District.

Joy Fox tweeted: "While @AllanFungRI holds a secret fundraiser with @GOPLeader Kevin McCarthy, weve been out walking in Elmhurst, listening to voters."

Jamestown fundraiser

The McCarthy fundraiser was held at a private residence in Jamestown, according to WJAR-TV, which was the only Rhode Island news outlet McCarthy spoke to.

The Rhode Island State Police confirmed they helped provide security for the McCarthy visit but would not confirm any details of the itinerary.

panderson@providencejournal.com

(401) 277-7384

On Twitter: @PatrickAnderso_

Should Biden run for reelection?: Most Democrats in RI congressional race sidestep the question

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Allan Fung had been mum on RI visit by Republican leader Kevin McCarthy
The Brookville Police Department is under scrutiny after allegations surfaced about officers targeting a man and arresting him for rape because they did not want him in an elected position.

Franklin County Prosecutor Chris Huerkamp announced Tuesday he had dismissed the charges, adding hes disturbed at the arrest. Huerkamp has requested that Indiana State Police investigate.

Court documents state the man wanted to run for Brookville Town Board but was known to police for being anti-law enforcement.

The man is not named in this report because he is not facing any charges.

Keep in mind, said Judson McMillin, the mans attorney, that the board is the boss of the law enforcement.

McMillin says the officers claimed they smelled marijuana on the man and his friend.

And they then got a search warrant, went into the house and arrested both individuals for possession of marijuana and some other things, McMillin said. And then [they] also arrested the individual who was running for the town board for the old rape charge. So theres a lot of problems with it.

Huerkamp said he was never going to charge the man with rape.

They were going to arrest an individual who was running for the town board on these nine-month-old allegations that they already knew were not going to be filed as a criminal charge, McMillin said.

Court documents state Aleese Whitamore came forward saying the officers encouraged her to run against the man.

It just makes me uncomfortable knowing that youre trying to ruin someones life basically, over your small town politics, she said.

Whitamore recalls being approached about running for town board. He says, Yeah, hes trying to take the spot on the board, and we dont want him on the town board. I was like, Why is that? He said, Well, he hates cops.

But Whitamore never wanted to be involved with the board.

Small town politics is too much for me, she said. So I just stay out of it.

Whitamores testimony helped clear the man.

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McMillin says while he appreciates local law enforcement, hes disappointed in what happened to his client.

Any time you start mixing police power with political preferences, you got major problems, and thats what we had here, McMillin said.

The Brookville Police Department, the Town Board President and the Indiana State Police have been contacted for comment.

Enquirer media partner Fox19 provided this report

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Brookville, Indiana, police accused of arresting man they did not want running for office
A martini with vermouth

Getty Images

You could say vermouth gets a bad rap, but the truth is, it doesn't really get much of a rap at all. For many, it's simply that other ingredient in your Martini, but vermouth can play so much more than a supporting role in a cocktail.

"Without vermouth, we wouldn't have Manhattans, Martinis, or Negronis," points out Lydia McLuen, bar manager at Takibi in Portland, Oregon. "Whenever I have a bottle at home, it doesn't last long." If she has dry vermouth, McLuen loves to make 50/50 gin martinis with a lemon twist; with blanc vermouth, her move is to drink it over ice with orange or grapefruit wedges. "If I have sweet vermouth, I drink it either on the rocks with an orange, or in Negronis, Manhattans, or Americanos," she adds. "The possibilities are endless!"

Sound enticing? Here's what you need to know about the aperitif.

Wait, What Is Vermouth?

"Vermouth is an aromatized, fortified wine flavored with various botanicals," says McLuen. Breaking that down, aromatized means the wine has been flavored with fruit, spices, and florals. Common botanicals include cinchona bark, wormwood, angelica root, orange peel, juniper, orris root, and star anise, though ingredients will vary from region to region depending on what's grown locally. For example, Dolin's white vermouth calls for high-altitude alpine flowers, while Matthiasson's Napa Valley take is made with California grapes, sour cherries, and blood oranges.

The phrase fortified means that these wines are topped up with stronger alcohol  such as brandy or a neutral grain spirit  added to the wine to pause the fermentation process and preserve the product.

Vermouth is a historic drink, with recipes and traditions passed down through centuries. Anthony Panzica, beverage director of Atlanta's The Porchetta Group, notes that you can trace vermouth's beginnings back to the 16th century with the Romans, who were making wormwood-infused wines. The name vermouth comes from the French pronunciation for the German word for wormwood, wermwut. Today, many vermouths still call for wormwood as a flavoring.

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Vermouth is part of the broader category of aperitifs. "To gain a better understanding of vermouth you must first understand the liqueur and spirit category of Aperitifs," says KP Sykes, owner, and operator of The Armory in Brooklyn. "The etymology of apertif comes from the Latin verb aperire, which means to open. In this case, opening the appetite before a meal. So in short, vermouth is an aromatized and fortified aperitif wine."

What Is Dry Vermouth?

The category extends far beyond that splash of white vermouth in your gin martini. Vermouth is made in Italy, France, and Spain, with every country making theirs in a different manner. "They all vary in sweetness, spice, and overall flavor," says Panzica.

France is known for its dry or chambery vermouths, which are typically light in color. Panzica notes that they can range from sweet and dry (as is the case with chambery) to nutty and slightly oxidized (in Marseilles). Overall, they're a bit more herbaceous than they are spicy.

Italy's white vermouths range from sweet to dry, and overall lack the oxidative quality of France's dry vermouths. Panzica also finds that they are a bit bolder in flavors, and herbaceous with a slight vanilla touch. Scarpa Bianco di Torino is one of his favorites  try it on the rocks with a twist. Keep in mind, white vermouths can also be sweet! Keep a look out for bottles marked dry.

"Dry vermouth is leaner, tart, herbaceous, and dry, used in drinks like the martini," McLuen explains.

What Is Sweet Vermouth?

While McLuen summarizes white vermouth as "rich, tart, floral, and pleasantly sweet," sweet vermouth is a rich, spiced and herbaceous drink, often used in drinks like the Manhattan and the Negroni. It's deep red in color and slightly spiced, balanced out by a subtle sweetness.

In Italy, it's typical to find find Vermouth di Torino, a red vermouth. "It's deep in color and flavor, often leaning towards warm spice notes like orange peel, clove, allspice, and caramel," says Panzica. "When you see a recipe for a cocktail calling for Italian vermouth or sweet vermouth, it's most likely calling for this style."

Meanwhile, Sykes prefers Carpano Antica, a red vermouth with "a slightly bitter taste with a ton of floral notes as well as hints of citrus, cherries, mint, vanilla, and oddly enough, root beer."

Then, there are Spanish vermouths. Panzica finds they live in a realm between Italian and French. "They came about when a few transplants from Torino came to Spain and started making vermouth with Spanish grapes." Even though most of these brands are relatively new, they make up some of his favorites.

What is Vermouth Used For?

Now that you're well-versed in vermouth styles, what do you do with a bottle?

"So many different things!" says Neal Bodenheimer, managing partner of New Orleans' beloved cocktail bar Cure. and author of Cure: New Orleans Drinks and How to Mix 'Em. "Over ice with a twist or with a dose of club soda is my favorite."

Panzica also sticks to a soda, as it makes the drink more sessionable; he drinks vermouth as an aperitif, or in social situations. "The botanicals are great at stimulating the appetite, while the soda water opens the stomach," he notes.

Does Vermouth Go Bad?

Before you dig in, start by scrapping that bottle of vermouth on your bar cart. "That old bottle is spoiled!" says Bodenheimer. "Treat [open] vermouth like wine and keep it in the fridge, because in essence, it is!"

Sykes notes that because the beverage has delicate ingredients  botanicals, wine, and a slight bit of spirit  the ingredients can fall victim to environmental pollution such as sunlight and heat. "Storing it in the fridge will extend the life and quality of your vermouth tremendously!" he says.
A 51-year-old man has been arrested and charged for allegedly killing two Muslim men who he knew to some extent in Albuquerque, New Mexico, police said during a news conference Tuesday.

A tip from the community led authorities to the suspect, identified as Muhammad Syed, they said, and multiple firearms were recovered from his home. Police said they believe the suspect is tied to the murders of Aftab Hussein and Muhammad Afzaal Hussain. Police said they believe the suspect may be involved in the homicides of the two other Muslim men, but they are still working on those cases.

Over the last nine months in Albuquerque, four Muslim men have been fatally shot.

The most recent shooting death took place on Friday, and law enforcement officials said over the weekend they believe that their deaths are connected.

These shootings are disturbing," Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina said during a Saturday press conference. "We are putting every possible resource into these investigations."

Even before Fridays shooting of 25-year-old Naeem Hussain, police had been investigating the deaths of two Muslim men in the span of a week.

Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, 27, was shot dead on Aug. 1. Aftab Hussein, 41, was found dead of gunshot wounds on July 26. Both men lived in southeast Albuquerque, were from Pakistan, and attended the same mosque, according to the New York Times.

On Tuesday, authorities said they believed the suspect knew Muhammad Afzaal Hussain and Hussein "to some extend" and had an "interpersonal conflict" with them. No additional information has yet been released about a potential motive.

Following the shooting deaths on July 26 and Aug. 1, police had said in a statement that they were reexamining the death of Mohammad Ahmadi, who was shot dead on Nov. 7, 2021, outside of a business he co-owned with his brother.

Our homicide detectives and our investigators currently believe there is a strong possibility that the same individual committed all three of these crimes, Kyle Hartsock, deputy commander of APDs Criminal Investigations Division, said in the statement. While we wont go into why we think that, theres one strong commonality in all of our victims, their race and religion.

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Hartsock said that in the cases of Ahmadi, Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, and Hussein, the shooter ambushed the victims with no warning, fired shots, and killed them.

Police say another Muslim man has been shot and killed in Albuquerque. APD believes his death may be connected to the murders of three other Muslim men in the metro.https://t.co/xmyo2CrDNp 01:00 AM - 07 Aug 2022

Then came Fridays killing of Naeem Hussain. Medina said Saturday that there is reason to believe his death is related to the three earlier killings. In a tweet posted after the press conference, Medina noted that the Crime Stoppers tip line reward for providing information about the shootings leading to an arrest has been increased to $20,000.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said in a statement Saturday that it will award $10,000 to the person who provides information to law enforcement that results in an arrest.

The deaths had sparked concern in the local Muslim community.

People are beginning to panic, Tahir Gauba, the director of public affairs with the Islamic Center of New Mexico, told the Albuquerque Journal.

Gauba said that the funerals for Muhammad Afzaal Hussain and Hussein had been held on Friday, hours before the fourth shooting took place. He said that Naeem Hussain, the fourth victim, had attended the service.

Right now it is really tough to deal with it, Gauba told the Journal. Right after the funeral, the same day, that thing happened again. So its just really crazy.

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said in a statement Saturday that she would be sending additional state law enforcement personnel to Albuquerque to assist in the investigation and provide whatever support is necessary.

I am angered and saddened that this is happening in New Mexico, a place that prides itself on diversity of culture and thought. This is not who we are, she said. We will not stop in our pursuit of justice for the victims and their families and are bringing every resource to bear to apprehend the killer or killers  and we WILL find them. In addition, we will continue to do everything we can to support to the Muslim community during this difficult time.
DARTMOUTH  Business owners get assistance from law students eager to help and law students get to demonstrate their abilities.

Its not just any attorney and client relationship, its a symbiotic partnership over the course of a semester at the University of Massachusetts School of Laws Community Development Clinic in Dartmouth.

The students, working under the supervision of law professor and new Community Development Clinic Director Lisa Lucile Owens, provide legal services to new business owners, business owners looking to make changes and people looking into organizing nonprofits in the SouthCoast.

Theres a lot of energy, theres a lot of opportunity, and I think thats really where the clinic stands as far as making legal services accessible and being a productive member of this greater entrepreneurial community here on the SouthCoast, Owens said.

She said the clinic is very selective with a few new clients each semester. The clients who are evaluated through a specific application process are offered pro-bono legal assistance.

Lisa Lucile Owens is the new director of the Community Development Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth School of Law.

The student attorneys may advise clients on legal matters they may be facing whether they are thinking about creating a business entity right away and just getting started, if they have been in business for a long time and their business is growing, or if theyre thinking its time to organize their business in a different way.

Property Transfers: Dartmouth home in Round Hill seaside community sells for $2 million

What I think is really special about the clinic is that you will work with student attorneys here at UMass who are brilliant and bring a lot of energy, she said. They are going to be super focused on their clients and for that reason, I think it can be a great experience not only for students, but also for clients to have that kind of attention, care and diligence.

The eight students who participate in the clinic each semester pair up to work with clients and give them their full attention. If a student has a strong inclination towards working with a specific client, she will take that into consideration.

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Its all part of the learning process for the students working with clients and their varied reasons for needing their services.

The students get this really unique experience, she said. Unlike in their other classes where theyre mostly reading and dealing with cases that may be hundreds of years old, they really get to dive in and test their legal mettle.

Owens, who has experience in financial and regulatory law and has worked at a startup and has experience creating business entities, has been recruiting clients for the fall and spring semesters since she started her new job in July, both teaching and practicing law. Last year she taught at Columbia in the sociology department.

Revitalization:Take a look inside Fairhaven's new Oxford School apartments.

She said she is looking forward to hitting the ground running and continuing to build the clinic and its relationships in the community after taking over from former director Dustin Marlan with a similar focus on social equity and making legal services available to people having difficulty accessing them.

She has also translated the application materials into Portuguese to better serve Portuguese-speaking clients. In the future, she plans to add materials in additional languages and to continue to expand access to legal services.

Owens receives applications on a rolling basis and evaluates prospective clients to determine whether or not to take them on as clients followed by an initial telephone discussion.

Students are really going to take the lead at that point, she said. Theyre going to conduct an intake for the client and theyre going to do all the initial interviewing, she said.

She said she will supervise student meetings with clients and oversee the work they produce because it is about the learning experience for the students and everyone benefits.

The Community Development Clinic is online at www.umasslawcdc.com and features a list of services. Owens can be reached by email at lowens@umassd.edu or by calling 508-985-1131.

Standard-Times staff writer Kathryn Gallerani can be reached at kgallerani@wickedlocal.com. Follow her on Twitter: @kgallreporter. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.

This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: UMass School of Law in students work with businesses, nonprofits
Lets be blunt: A penalty of $5 million is the minimum the judicial system should demand from a landlord described as possibly the worst rental housing operator in Buffalo.

Thats how much the state Attorney Generals Office is asking the courts to fine Angel Elliot Dalfin for 126 instances of deceptive acts and practices for which State Supreme Court Justice Catherine Nugent Panepinto found him liable in a default judgment.

Thats the civil lawsuit. Dalfin also faces federal criminal charges related to lead paint violations that led to the poisoning of 29 children as well as counts of wire fraud and making and using a materially false document.

Dalfin was a fugitive until surrendering at Buffalos federal courthouse last month. His punishment needs to fit the violations that abused hundreds of Buffalonians. It needs to hurt if it is to deter other bad landlords from such despicable conduct.

As News enterprise editor Patrick Lakamp reported, at least 63 of the Dalfin properties were cited for chipping, peeling or deteriorating paint and other conditions conducive to lead poisoning between 2013 and 2020.

Assistant Attorney General Patrick Omilian said Dalfin and his entities did not try to prevent lead poisoning but instead cut corners. They lied to tenants. They lied to authorities. He called the acts intentional business practice.

Experts have repeatedly warned about the health hazards of lead, which can cause lasting growth and developmental problems in children and cause severe damage in adults. Dr. Melinda S. Cameron, a pediatrician and medical director of the WNY Lead Poisoning Prevention Resource Center, testified that the prevalence of lead poisoning among children in Buffalo, particularly in impoverished Black neighborhoods is still terrible, despite some progress.

No evidence suggests that Dalfin cared about any of that.

Although the judge said she is inclined to grant the states request, she reserved her decision in order to investigate whether the money  if any is collected  can be directed to efforts against lead poisoning here rather than disappearing into the mysteries of government budgets. Its the right idea.

Lead, prevalent in older homes, was once considered an intractable problem. Not so, anymore.

The Buffalo & Erie County Lead Safe Task Force, whose members include doctors, parents, lawyers, faith leaders, the Buffalo Public Schools and others, has collaborated to combat the effects of lead poison in homes. In 2020, the City of Buffalo passed critical legislation  prioritized by the Lead Safe Task Force  to expand the city inspectors ability to conduct interior inspections of residential rental units. The City was also able to secure $2 million in federal funding to address this issue.

Dalfin, who reportedly had a web of 19 companies incorporated in Wyoming, Maryland, Delaware and New York, stands accused of unauthorized evictions and deception, including using a UPS Store drop box and a fictional contact person. Now state and federal prosecutors are sending a message to anyone else who might think of similarly harming taxpaying citizens and their children.

Full speed ahead.

  

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.
Olive oil

The price of olive oil is set to rise as heatwaves hit production in Spain, a leading exporter has warned.

Acesur, which supplies the UK's biggest supermarkets, told the BBC this would feed through into prices in shops in the next three to four months when companies renew their contracts.

The company's export manager, Miguel Colmenero, said customers could see prices rise by 20-25%.

Spain produces nearly half of the world's olive oil.

But the country, along with other parts of Western Europe which produce olive oil, including Italy and Portugal, has been experiencing extreme temperatures and a lack of rain in recent weeks.

Acesur is involved in the production of more than 200,000 tonnes of olive oil a year, out of the roughly 1.4 million tonnes produced in Spain annually, and sells its products in more than 100 countries.

It sells around 20,000 tonnes a year in the UK and packs own-label brands for Sainsbury's, Tesco, Waitrose, Morrisons and Asda. The supermarkets also stock its La Espanola brand, which is the third biggest in the UK.

Most of the olives in its products are grown in Andalucia, southern Spain, which has had very little rainfall in recent weeks.

Mr Colmenero said the impact of the heatwave on production was "drastic".

Last year, Spain produced around 1.4 million tonnes of olive oil but he said officials were now forecasting as little as one million tonnes for this season.

He added that the dry weather could also impact next season's crop, if olive trees could not grow new branches due to lack of water.

This is having an impact on global prices. In July the Mintec benchmark price for extra virgin olive oil rose to its highest level so far this year, up by 7.3% on the previous month and 14.2% on the previous year, according to the market research group.

Mr Colmenero said this would eventually feed through into prices for customers, although there would be a three to four month lag because many companies would already have signed 12-month contracts with retailers.

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However, he added companies would eventually have to raise their prices when they renewed contracts and customers could see increases of 20-25%.

The BBC contacted the UK's other biggest olive oil brands, including Filippo Berio and Napolina, but did not get a response.

Italy's olive crop has also been reduced by heatwaves and drought

The average price of own-label olive oil in the four biggest UK supermarket chains was up 50.2% on last year at the beginning of August, according to retail research firm Assosia. From June to July, average prices increased 28.5%.

If the dry weather continues, Roxanne Nikoro, a market analyst for Mintec, said prices could rise further.

However, she added that if the grain corridor agreed from Ukraine led to more supplies of sunflower oil coming out of the country, this "could bring some relief".

Mr Colmenero said disruption to the supply of sunflower oil from Ukraine was also contributing to "dramatic" price increases, as people turned to olive oil as an alternative, increasing demand.

Ukraine was previously the world's top exporter of sunflower oil.

Other parts of Western Europe which produce olive oil have also experienced record high temperatures and Mr Colmenero said this would reduce production in other countries too.

In July, Italy declared a state of emergency in five northern regions surrounding the Po River, as it experienced the worst drought in 70 years.
Three black-footed ferret kits from the Phoenix Zoo. They are all from mother Canneles and are three of the four still in need of a name.

The Arizona Center for Nature Conservation/Phoenix Zoo welcomed five more litters of the highly-endangered black-footed ferrets this May and June at its Arthur L. and Elaine V. Johnson Conservation Center.

There are 21 baby ferrets, or kits, in all born to mothers Akoya, Roseanne, Vermillion, Lady Mary and Canneles, and some will be identified as candidates to be released into the wild.

According to Tara Harris, the director of conservation and science for the Phoenix Zoo who oversees its breeding and recovery programs, there are only a few hundred of the animals living in the wild today.

Black-footed ferrets are one of the most endangered animals in North America and were actually thought to be extinct, though they were rediscovered in 1981 in Wyoming, according to the Black-footed Ferret Connection. They are one of only three species of ferret in the world and the only species native to North America. The Black-footed Ferret Connections website says they were originally native to 12 U.S. states, living in areas of short or mixed grass, but they are now only found at reintroduction sites.

A black-footed ferret kit from the Phoenix Zoo.

When they were rediscovered, biologists captured the remaining ferrets they could find and began breeding them, and all black-footed ferrets are likely descended from just seven ancestors as a result, according to Harris.

The Phoenix Zoo is one of six facilities in the world breeding the ferrets for reintroduction into the wild in an effort to save the species from extinction. It has been breeding ferrets since 1992 and has produced over 500 ferrets total in those 30 years, Harris said.

Beating the heat: How animals at the Phoenix Zoo stay cool in the summer

Just last year, 13 ferrets bred at the Phoenix Zoo were released into the wild in Colorado, according to a press release from the Phoenix Zoo. There are also reintroduction sites in Arizona and a total of 30 sites across the country, Harris said.

A black-footed ferret kit from the Phoenix Zoo. The kit is from mother Canneles and is one of the four kits still needing a name.

Later in August or September, Harris said they will begin identifying which kits would make good release candidates. Those kits will then go to a facility in Colorado for pre-conditioning.

Story continues

You can kind of think of it like a boot camp for black-footed ferrets where they go and they have to learn all the survival skills that they need to live out in the wild, Harris said.

The conditioning includes living outdoors in underground burrow systems, where they get the chance to hunt on their own, Harris said. If they complete the tasks necessary to survival in the wild, they will be released.

For now, the ferrets will remain with their mothers at the Arthur L. and Elaine V. Johnson Conservation Center and in the meantime, the zoo is asking the publics help in naming one litter of ferrets born to mom Canneles and dad Juniper. According to the press release, there are four kits to be named, and four themes to choose from.

The four themes are: trees (Maple, Acacia, Cedar and Willow), Avatar the Last Airbender (Kyoshi, Toph, Suki and Azula), Norse mythology (Freya, Eisa, Idunn and Senua) and Pokemon Eevee evolutions (Espeon, Umbreon, Flareon and Jolteon).

To vote for a name theme, visit the zoos website. Voting is open now until Aug. 16, and the winning names will be announced Aug. 19, according to the press release.

Reach breaking news reporter Sam Burdette at sburdette@gannett.com or on Twitter @SuperSafetySam

Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix Zoo welcomes ferret kits, asks for help naming them
Weather Alert

...EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 11 PM PDT FRIDAY... * WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with temperatures up to 103. * WHERE...In Washington, Eastern Columbia River Gorge of Washington, Simcoe Highlands, Kittitas Valley and Yakima Valley. In Oregon, Eastern Columbia River Gorge of Oregon. * WHEN...Until 11 PM PDT Friday. * IMPACTS...Extreme heat will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1. &&
Erie County Legislator John Mills asserted in Another Voice on Aug. 3 that an Another Voice I wrote recently was penned by a New York City author. Apparently he jumped to this conclusion because I signed as Conservation Chair of the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. While New York City is indeed adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean, the Atlantic Chapter of the Sierra Club covers all of New York State; it was the first Sierra Club chapter outside California, and once included the New England states. I have lived in Erie County for all my adult life except for graduate school and research trips, since attending the University at Buffalo in the 1960s.

Regardless, it is perfectly acceptable for a person outside Western New York to write an opinion piece on a topic of wide concern. We are one State of New York, the only state fortunate enough to border an ocean and the Great Lakes. Ironically, one of the points I made in my piece was that there are two serious threats to our survival as a democracy and a species: the climate crisis and the tendency of some elected officials to be careless with facts. We in the Sierra Club rely on scientific literature and are always willing to cite our sources.

Wind turbine blades do not deposit microplastics into water bodies. They are made of fiberglass, epoxy and sometimes balsa wood. They are inert, increasingly recyclable, and pose no harm to our drinking water; neither do the structures on which they are mounted. Mapping of the lake bed would avoid areas of significant deposits from past pollution, and lake bed impact would be minimal at most and only during a brief construction period. The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority is conducting a comprehensive study to ensure water safety before any wind tower construction would be permitted.

The Erie County ban on microbead pollution, which Mills wisely supported, and which was followed up by a New York State ban, was actually initiated by our local Sierra Club Niagara Group volunteers. We will always strive to protect our lakes, our air and our land from fossil fuel pollution and all other threats.

Ellen Cardone Banks

Conservation Chair, Atlantic Chapter

Sierra Club
ReportLinker

Cold Chain Monitoring Market Research Report by Offering (Hardware and Software), Logistics, Application, Region (Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa) - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19

New York, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Cold Chain Monitoring Market Research Report by Offering, Logistics, Application, Region - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06306153/?utm_source=GNW



The Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market size was estimated at USD 3,211.34 million in 2021 and expected to reach USD 3,624.63 million in 2022, and is projected to grow at a CAGR 13.12% to reach USD 6,730.33 million by 2027.



Market Statistics:

The report provides market sizing and forecast across 7 major currencies - USD, EUR, JPY, GBP, AUD, CAD, and CHF. It helps organization leaders make better decisions when currency exchange data is readily available. In this report, the years 2019 and 2020 are considered historical years, 2021 as the base year, 2022 as the estimated year, and years from 2023 to 2027 are considered the forecast period.



Market Segmentation & Coverage:

This research report categorizes the Cold Chain Monitoring to forecast the revenues and analyze the trends in each of the following sub-markets:



Based on Offering, the market was studied across Hardware and Software. The Hardware is further studied across Networking Devices, RFID Devices, Sensors And Data Loggers, and Telematics & Telemetry Devices.



Based on Logistics, the market was studied across Airways, Cold Containers, Railways, Roadways, Transportation, Warehouses, and Waterways.



Based on Application, the market was studied across Chemicals, Food & Beverage, and Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare.



Based on Region, the market was studied across Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa. The Americas is further studied across Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and United States. The United States is further studied across California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The Asia-Pacific is further studied across Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. The Europe, Middle East & Africa is further studied across France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom.



Cumulative Impact of COVID-19:

COVID-19 is an incomparable global public health emergency that has affected almost every industry, and the long-term effects are projected to impact the industry growth during the forecast period. Our ongoing research amplifies our research framework to ensure the inclusion of underlying COVID-19 issues and potential paths forward. The report delivers insights on COVID-19 considering the changes in consumer behavior and demand, purchasing patterns, re-routing of the supply chain, dynamics of current market forces, and the significant interventions of governments. The updated study provides insights, analysis, estimations, and forecasts, considering the COVID-19 impact on the market.



Cumulative Impact of 2022 Russia Ukraine Conflict:

We continuously monitor and update reports on political and economic uncertainty due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Negative impacts are significantly foreseen globally, especially across Eastern Europe, European Union, Eastern & Central Asia, and the United States. This contention has severely affected lives and livelihoods and represents far-reaching disruptions in trade dynamics. The potential effects of ongoing war and uncertainty in Eastern Europe are expected to have an adverse impact on the world economy, with especially long-term harsh effects on Russia.This report uncovers the impact of demand & supply, pricing variants, strategic uptake of vendors, and recommendations for Cold Chain Monitoring market considering the current update on the conflict and its global response.



Competitive Strategic Window:

The Competitive Strategic Window analyses the competitive landscape in terms of markets, applications, and geographies to help the vendor define an alignment or fit between their capabilities and opportunities for future growth prospects. It describes the optimal or favorable fit for the vendors to adopt successive merger and acquisition strategies, geography expansion, research & development, and new product introduction strategies to execute further business expansion and growth during a forecast period.



FPNV Positioning Matrix:

The FPNV Positioning Matrix evaluates and categorizes the vendors in the Cold Chain Monitoring Market based on Business Strategy (Business Growth, Industry Coverage, Financial Viability, and Channel Support) and Product Satisfaction (Value for Money, Ease of Use, Product Features, and Customer Support) that aids businesses in better decision making and understanding the competitive landscape.



Market Share Analysis:

The Market Share Analysis offers the analysis of vendors considering their contribution to the overall market. It provides the idea of its revenue generation into the overall market compared to other vendors in the space. It provides insights into how vendors are performing in terms of revenue generation and customer base compared to others. Knowing market share offers an idea of the size and competitiveness of the vendors for the base year. It reveals the market characteristics in terms of accumulation, fragmentation, dominance, and amalgamation traits.



Competitive Scenario:

The Competitive Scenario provides an outlook analysis of the various business growth strategies adopted by the vendors. The news covered in this section deliver valuable thoughts at the different stage while keeping up-to-date with the business and engage stakeholders in the economic debate. The competitive scenario represents press releases or news of the companies categorized into Merger & Acquisition, Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership, New Product Launch & Enhancement, Investment & Funding, and Award, Recognition, & Expansion. All the news collected help vendor to understand the gaps in the marketplace and competitors strength and weakness thereby, providing insights to enhance product and service.



Company Usability Profiles:

The report profoundly explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market, including Berlinger & Co, Carrier, Cole-Parmer Instrument Company, LLC., Controlant, DAIKIN INDUSTRIES Ltd, Elpro-buchs AG, Infratab Inc., Klinge Corporation, LINEAGE LOGISTICS HOLDINGS LLC, Monnit Corporation, NEC Corporation, Nimble Wireless, NXP Semiconductors N.V., Orbcomm, SafeTraces Inc., Savi Technology, Tagbox, Veridify Security Inc, Verigo, and Zest Labs Inc..



The report provides insights on the following pointers:

1. Market Penetration: Provides comprehensive information on the market offered by the key players

2. Market Development: Provides in-depth information about lucrative emerging markets and analyze penetration across mature segments of the markets

3. Market Diversification: Provides detailed information about new product launches, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments

4. Competitive Assessment & Intelligence: Provides an exhaustive assessment of market shares, strategies, products, certification, regulatory approvals, patent landscape, and manufacturing capabilities of the leading players

5. Product Development & Innovation: Provides intelligent insights on future technologies, R&D activities, and breakthrough product developments



The report answers questions such as:

1. What is the market size and forecast of the Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market?

6. What is the market share of the leading vendors in the Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market?

7. What modes and strategic moves are considered suitable for entering the Global Cold Chain Monitoring Market?

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06306153/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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Moments later, however, he added that not everyone sees what the EU is playing at, because "some people want to hold on to their foolishness, their illusions, and others are cynically counting on the fortunes they will make when Poland is enslaved". According to Kaczynski, speculators "with access to the right knowledge" are hoping to make fortunes when "Poland eventually joins the eurozone". But "the rest should understand and accept that an attempt is being made at taking away our freedom, sovereignty, and robbing us".

Jarosaw Kaczynski: Donald Tusk is acting on behalf of Germany

Micha Karnowski, Kaczynskis interviewer, inquires what "enough is enough" means, and asks about the tools the Polish government has at its disposal "against the European Commission and its lawless games?". Kaczynski responds by saying that "the time will come to talk about the details", and adds that it will not be about withholding Polands EU budget contributions. First, PiS must "take care of Polish citizens, take measures that will lower energy costs". Karnowski worries about what will happen, because "the EU will probably declare an all-out war, impose penalties, and try to block money transfers from the main budget". Kaczynski goes on to accuse the EU of trying to "break Poland and force it into full submission to Germany" and "finding ever new excuses for blocking the funds". And all of this allegedly "pushes Poland against the wall".

The leader of the Law and Justice party announces that if PiS wins the 2023 parliamentary election, it will make sure to reshape Polands relations with the EU. Karnowski then asks whether the change of course will lead to changes in the government. Kaczynski answers that it certainly will, but does not give any names. He assures his interviewer, however, that there will be no changes when it comes to the prime minister or key members of the government.

Talking about relations with the European Union in the context of Polands rule of law issues, Kaczynski says that "the purpose of these interventions was not to protect the European rule of law, but to dismantle the rule of law in Poland". In his view, "everyone can already see that". He recalls that in 2017 President Andrzej Duda vetoed the judicial bills, and because of that "today we would be in a completely different situation, the matter would be over". Poland would probably be still negotiating with Brussels, "but from a completely different position". Kaczynski also has a message for Polish judges, who "need to be reminded of a basic fact". - They have an obligation to obey Polish law, and the only place to evaluate their constitutionality is the Constitutional Court- he says.

REKLAMA

He states that Poland is divided into two camps. - On one side, our side, we have the pro-Polish, independence, patriotic and democratic camp. Opposite of us are forces that reject democracy, ruthlessly taking advantage of accumulated resources and institutional advantages. They want a Poland that is weak, submissive to the neighboring powers- he says, adding that all of this reminds him of 1989.

He blames the polarization on Donald Tusk, who "continues his efforts to radically brutalize, even animalize public discourse. I see the continuation of a certain tradition in this: our enemies have always wanted a primitive, vulgar Poland that rejects culture. This is what Tusk is doing on behalf of foreign powers. The master here is Germany. It wants to rule the world from its headquarters in Berlin". -Brussels plays a supporting role here- Kaczynski claims.

"German-Russian plans to rule Europe"

Echoing the argument of Adam Glapinski, the head of Polands National Bank, Kaczynski says that one of the goals of "the plan to topple the current government is to pull Poland away from its armament program", because "Germany knows that an opposition-run government won't go for something like this". - We do not fit into the German-Russian plans to rule Europe. An independent, sovereign, economically, socially and militarily strong Poland is an obstacle for them- he asserts.

Donald Tusk: Kaczynski is walking us out of the EU

Referring to Kaczynskis statements, in a radio interview on Monday, the ruling partys secretary-general Krzysztof Sobolewski announced what tactics the ruling camp will use against the European Commission. - "We will adopt a tooth-for-tooth strategy" he said, adding that he is counting on the European Commission to "come to its senses". - The Commission is going beyond the treaties and established norms- Sobolewski said. - We do not intend to leave the European Union, and we have emphasized this many times- he stressed, but added that - If Poland were to miss the main part of the EU budget, if there was an attempt to block the recovery fund money and the European Commission tried to push us against the wall, then there is nothing left for us but to pull out all the cannons that are in our arsenal and respond with barrage fire.

REKLAMA

Commenting on Jarosaw Kaczynski's warnings about "reshaping Polands relations with the EU" and Sobolewskis statements about "pulling out all the cannons against the Commission", Donald Tusk said:

"Kaczynski is walking us out of the EU. He is doing it consistently and with the persistence of a maniac. All supporters of the European Union must finally understand this. The words of the Law and Justice party officials about cannons and barrage fire against Brussels sound grotesque, but, believe me, there is nothing to laugh about here anymore- Tusk wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.

***

REKLAMA

Every day, 400 journalists at Gazeta Wyborcza write verified, fact-checked stories about Polish politics and society, keeping a critical eye on the ruling camps persistent assault on democratic values and the rule of law; the growing cultural tension between religious fundamentalism and human rights; and the ongoing Russian invasion in Ukraine. Our journalists are on the front lines in 32 Polish cities, reporting from the streets, hospitals, and courtrooms about issues that move public opinion.

We decided to make our service available to everyone free of charge in order to provide access to high quality journalism for expats and English speakers interested in Polish affairs.

The access to information should be equal for all.
WACO -- Nebraska Lutheran High School is going on 44 years strong of equipping high school students with strong academic and spiritual principles. This year, the school is expecting about 60 students, counting a strong incoming freshman class of 17 students. They have international students coming in from China, Japan and Germany this year.

NELHS also welcomes one new staff member, Paul Kanzebach from Milwaukee, who will be teaching music.

New Superintendent Skip Bremer recently completed his Education Specialist degree through the University of Nebraska Kearney and is celebrating his first year as an official Superintendent of NEHLS.

Bremer said, I feel very blessed to be here. I was in the very first freshman class. I love Waco, our community and our conference. Its a special place.

To Bremer, Nebraska Lutheran is unique because its home away from home for 80% of their students. Bremer said the maintenance crew and kitchen staff go the extra mile in making sure the students feel at home.

NELHS staff members were impressed with last years academic success in the classroom. Bremer said he was especially proud of their seniors. One senior received the National Merit Scholarship and 12 seniors accepted scholarships to the school of their choice.

To continue that academic success, NELHS has adopted a framework called Outward Mindset in Education which will help teachers become efficient in the classroom. They are taking full advantage of feedback as well given through parent, student and alumni surveys.

We have high expectations for our students and our teachers, said Bremer. We are looking for ways to continuously improve through our surveys. We are always thinking in terms of how can we support each other and help each other out.

Outside of academics, the students continue to step up to the plate and volunteer in their community. Bremer said their goal is to teach students how to be leaders in all aspects of life.

Bremer said, At Nebraska Lutheran, we have the privilege of sharing the truths of Gods Word and the importance of keeping true to Gods Word every day. Our students not only grow spiritually by being connected to the gospel in our classrooms and chapels, but they also grow as evangelists, church leaders and community leaders.

As far as summer projects, there were a couple of dorm lobby upgrades and kitchen upgrades over the summer. Students will be getting a taste of the major changes in quality and quantity of food offered through their kitchen said Bremer.

We thank Jenny Thompson and the kitchen staff for doing a fantastic job, said Bremer.

NEHLS is looking forward to starting strong and ending strong. Bremer said hes excited to get the kids back on campus and watching them excel.

NEHLS first day of school is Monday, Aug. 15.
YORK  Prosper Gilpin, 20, one of four former York College students accused of beating a man, stealing his property and breaking into multiple vehicles in York, was back in court this week on allegations that he violated the terms of his probation.

The now-Winnebago resident was earlier sentenced in York County District Court to probation for the amended charges of misdemeanor criminal mischief and misdemeanor theft.

He was initially charged with the following:

 Robbery, a Class 2 felony

 Conspiracy to commit a Class 2 felony, a Class 2 felony

 Criminal possession of multiple financial transaction devices, a Class 4 felony

 Third degree assault, a Class 1 misdemeanor

 Identity fraud, a Class 1 misdemeanor

 Theft by unlawful taking, $0-$500, a Class 2 misdemeanor

The case began when the York Police Department was dispatched to 6 Arbor Court in reference to an assault that took place on the college campus, according to the probable cause affidavit filed with the York County Court.

The victim told police he was on a walk, listening to music, around 5 a.m., and was in the area of the colleges prayer chapel when someone grabbed him from behind and pushed him to the ground. Two individuals punched and kicked him while he was on the ground. He attempted to fight back but could not. He sustained superficial abrasions to both knees. He stated that being punched and kicked caused him pain. The two individuals began going through his pockets but he did not have anything in them. The individuals took the hat he was wearing, which was then on the ground, and ran away.

The victim said there were four individuals in the group. Only two assaulted him and deprived him of his property by force, the officers report says. He was able to provide descriptions of the individuals. He said he recognized all four individuals as York College students as he works in the cafeteria and has seen them before.

At 5:52 a.m., police officers were dispatched to the 600 Block of N. Iowa Ave., on the report of an attempted vehicle break-in. Officers were advised the people fled the scene after the reporting partys car alarm went off. Officers were told the suspects fled in a darker colored sporty car. The reporting party said the vehicle was occupied by more than one person.

At 6 a.m., a sergeant with the police department located a gray Infiniti G35 driving in the area of 11th Street and North Nebraska Ave. A traffic stop was initiated due to a traffic infraction.

Another officer arrived and observed that the description of the four men by the earlier victim matched the description of the occupants of the vehicle.

Officers also saw a number of Nebraska vehicle registrations throughout the vehicle, which was strange because the vehicle had California license plates. All four occupants were asked to exit the vehicle.

The driver was identified as Robbie Lovejoy Jr., the officer says in the affidavit filed with the court. The front seat passenger was identified as Fernando Servin Jr. The drivers side rear passenger was identified as Isaiah Hernandez-Jasso. And the passengers side rear passenger was identified as Prosper Gilpin.

It should be noted the victim immediately identified his assailants, through a drive-by line-up. He also identified Jasso and Servin as the men who assaulted him, the affidavit says.

Servin and Jasso were arrested for robbery and assault. Later, Lovejoy told officers he saw Fernando and Jasso assault (the man) and take his hat. He said he did not know why. He also stated he was just driving them around so Fernando and Jasso could steal items out of vehicles. He said he and Gilpin stayed in the car the entire time the group was driving around York.

The affidavit says Lovejoy was found to have no operators license, Gilpin was under the influence of alcohol and the other two were arrested  for that reason, a tow truck was called. The wind made it nearly impossible to conduct a tow inventory search as papers were flying out the door. The vehicle was taken to an indoor location where it was searched. During the search, officers located items belonging to 16 victims. Most of which were vehicle registrations, insurance cards and various vehicle related documents. Most notably, officers located a womans wallet containing her drivers license, a bank-issued checkbook and multiple bank cards. Officers also located another bank card issued to a man.

Gilpin was sentenced to two years of traditional probation. A court hearing has been set for the near future, regarding his admission or denial of the new allegations.
YORK  Brian L. Wilson, 50, of Geneva, has been sent to prison for three felonies in a case where he was in possession of an illegal weapon.

The case began when local law enforcement officers received information from a confidential informant that Wilson was in possession of a stolen firearm. The informant gave them a probable time and location that the firearm would be in Wilsons possession and noted he would be trying to sell it.

In court documents, it is noted that the informant made self-incriminating statements to felony level crimes while providing the information. With the confidential informants statements corroborated, it was deemed more likely than not there was criminal activity afoot.

The affidavit says further, Based on Wilsons history of convictions for violent felonies, felonies involving weapons, dangerous instruments, as well as the high probability he was actively in possession of a firearm, law enforcement on scene believed there to be a probable cause to conduct a high-risk contact with Wilson.

Officers with the York Police Department and the York County Sheriffs Department made contact with Wilson, in York, in his vehicle, and a county drug dog alerted to the presence of narcotics. It was also noted in court documents that the arresting officer had been involved in two cases involving narcotics where Wilson was the primary suspect within the past three months.

During a search of Wilsons vehicle, deputies and police officers found a Nighthawk Custom 45 ACP 1911 firearm bearing a serial number which was given to York County Communications who advised the firearm had been stolen in York County.

It was also noted that Wilson is a convicted felon in Nebraska and California.

Per his no contest pleas, he was found guilty of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, a Class 1D felony which carries a possible maximum sentence of 3-50 years in prison; possession of a firearm while committing a felony, a Class 2 felony, which carries a possible maximum sentence of 1-50 years in prison; and possession of a stolen firearm, a Class 2A felony, which carries a possible maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The allegation of being a habitual criminal was dismissed.

This week, District Judge James Stecker sentenced Wilson to 3-5 years in prison for the prohibited person conviction, and 1-2 years for each of the other two convictions.

He was given credit for 191 days already served in the York County Jail.
YORK  A 44-year-old woman, who (along with three other adults) left five kids and six dogs at the York interchange and was later found in possession of meth during a traffic stop on Interstate 80, has been sentenced to prison.

Irene Lira appeared in York County District Court this week, for re-sentencing, regarding one count of child abuse, a Class 3A felony. She was earlier sentenced to probation but the probation was revoked due to her subsequent drug-related charges.

This particular case began when a deputy with the York County Sheriffs Department saw a vehicle speeding on Interstate 80 and he conducted a traffic stop. In the affidavit, the deputy says the driver (Michael Fortner) did not have any form of identification and indicated he believed his license may have been suspended. The vehicle, a Nissan sedan, was a rental car yet the deputy said the driver could not provide any rental agreement.

The deputy says he asked the driver to step out of the vehicle  and when he opened the drivers door of the vehicle, he saw a small syringe lying beside the drivers seat on the floor. The deputy said that based on his training and experience, this syringe is used for injecting methamphetamine.

Fortner was then arrested.

Lira, the front seat passenger, was also taken into custody and a search of her purse resulted in the discovery of two small blue bags with a white crystal-like residue inside. The deputy said the substance field tested positive as methamphetamine. He added, in the court affidavit, that he also found in her purse a homemade pipe that is used for the ingestion of methamphetamine.

The remaining two passengers  Pablo Recio and Kristin Learned  were also taken into custody and transported to the York County Jail.

Two days later, the York Police Department was dispatched to a hotel in York on the report that five children  ages 17, 16, 12, seven and three months  had been left abandoned and their parents had been arrested.

The police officer says in his separate affidavit that upon arrival at the room, I had contact with the children and they told me they had been traveling from California to Minnesota to attend a wedding and their parents had been arrested and that they had been traveling with four adults  Lira, Fortner, Recio and Learned.

The police officer determined that Lira is the mother of two of the children and grandmother of two of the children; Recio is the father of two of the children; and Learned is the mother of one of the children.

The children told me that they had been asleep at an unidentified gas station when (one of the children) was called by her mother (Lira) who said they were being pulled over. She later called them from jail to tell them they were being arrested. At this time, the children had been asleep at an unknown gas station. He added that all this had happened to the children, at the gas station, in the middle of the night.

The police officer says a staff member at the hotel had explained that the children went to that lodging property and she received a call from a woman who asked her to give the children a hotel room and another woman would call and pay for it. The hotel worker said she never received a call to pay for the room, but she decided that it was in the best interest of the children that she would put them up in a room for their own wellbeing. She said she put the children in a room for one night.

It is unknown where the children were or what they were doing from the time the adults were arrested and the time they were booked into the hotel.

The officer says in his affidavit that the older children were caring for the younger children and had been able to get them some food.

The police officer says that when he arrived at the hotel room to talk with the children, there were dog feces and urine throughout the hotel room, due to six dogs also being left with the children.

The police officer spoke with the sheriffs deputy who had earlier arrested the four adults, and he told me that upon being pulled over, all four adults in the vehicle appeared to be under the influence of some substance and none of the adults told him about the children or their lack of adult supervision.

During earlier factual basis proceedings, the prosecution told the court, The defendant made numerous calls to the children from the jail, never offering assistance or instruction to contact authorities or notify law enforcement that the children were in danger, even at the begging and behest of her own daughter. The defendant can be heard speaking with total disregard for her daughters pleading for help and encouraging the children to attempt to drive to California on no gas and merely $20, risking abandonment on the interstate  all to satisfy her desire for her daughter to return with a relative to bond her out.

Since she has been in York County, shes been accused of sneaking alcohol to one of the minor children who was in foster care, as well as third degree assault regarding a fight between her and the other three adults involved in this situation, in Waco. She has also been charged with drug possession.

Liras criminal history includes robbery, numerous paraphernalia possessions, transportation of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance, alien smuggling and burglary.

This week, she was sentenced to prison for one year to be followed by 18 months of post-release supervision.
The Indian aviation industry is abuzz with the launch of Akasa Air and also the second innings of Jet Airways. Not only this, with opening of international borders post coronavirus, the number of flights, both domestic and international has reached pre-pandemic levels. With all this happening, the demand for pilots has soared an all time high in India. Interestingly, India has the highest number of women airline pilots as compared any part of the world. Back in February 2022, speaking in the Lok Sabha, Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said that 15 per cent of total pilot strength in the country are women.

Scindia said, "In all other countries in the world, only 5 per cent of the pilots is female. In India, over 15 percent of pilots are female. This is another example of women empowerment. There has been a lot of changes in the aviation industry in the last 20-25 years."

India soars at the top with the maximum number of female commercial pilots as compared to any other country. This #IWD2021, we celebrate the #NariShakti that #ChooseToChallenge the stereotypes and make Indian Aviation the success it is. pic.twitter.com/sRWCcLBBm2 March 9, 2021

This means, India has the highest ratio of female commercial and air force pilots as compared to any other country in the world, including the most progessive aviation markets including the United States and Europe. As per the data compiled by the International Society of Women Airline Pilots 2020, India has the highest ratio of female pilots in the world leading the list with 12.4 percent female commercial pilots as opposed to other nations.

Next in line is Ireland with distant 9.9 percent female pilots. The data was compiled more than an year ago and since then, the number has further increased. The survey further revealed that smaller regional airlines are the biggest employer of female pilots with 13.9 percent gender ratio, while cargo airlines have the least ratio at 8.5 percent in India.

Indian female pilots like Capt Zoya Aggarwal who piloted the world's longest San Francisco to Bengaluru direct flight on Air India have been the talk of the town lately. Globally, Ireland is second, closely followed by South Africa at third with 9.8 percent female pilots, while Canada is at fourth with distant 6.9 percent ratio. The fifth one is Germany with 6.9 percent as well. On the other side, countries like the US and the UK have only 5.4 and 4.7 percent female flight officers respectively.

Highlighting that the Civil Aviation industry has become a key element of India's economy, Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said the simplification of pilot licence will be done in the coming days with the latest technology. He said that the Government plans to create 33 new domestic cargo terminals, set up 15 new flight training schools for pilots, create more jobs, and increase focus on the drone sector.

He also said that the Government has set a target of creating 220 new airports by 2025. Replying to the demands for grants of the Civil Aviation ministry for 2022-23, Scindia said that India had moved forward in domestic and international travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With inputs from ANI
Amidst the growing Israel-Palestine conflict, a United Airlines pilot denied flying the plane to the Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, the capital of Israel, from Newark Airport. This resulted in the flight to be delayed for 24 hours, a report stated. Apparently, the pilot refused to fly to Tel Aviv because of the security situation. Not only this, the flight was in the process of boarding passengers when the ground staff informed those still waiting at the gate that the flight would not depart on schedule. Initially, the passengers were told that the delay was due to crew refusal.

However, the airline later said that the flight has been cancelled due to flight curfew in Israel after the recent spree of rocket attacks and in light of the security situation, leaving passengers confused, as no such curfew was announced by the Middle-Easter country.

@united flight UA84 postponed to tomorrow morning citing crew refusal. Wonder why the crew couldnt think about refusing before dragging hundreds of people to the airport.  Gil Eyal (@gileyal) August 6, 2022

The flight UA84 began boarding and a couple of passengers entered the aircraft when they were informed to disembark. Once back in waiting area, the initial communication given to the passengers by the ground staff was that the pilot refused to fly to Israel because of the security situation.

One passenger named Gil Eyal, tweeted about the incident, asking United Airlines official Twitter account for an explanation. The flight UA84 later departed for Tel Aviv after more than 24 hours delay and landed safely.

For the last couple of days, more than 500 rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip. However, despite safety threats to flights, Ben Gurion Airport authority altered the flight paths to and from Israel ensuring commercial airlines could continue to operate safely.
Sydney, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Proactive, provider of real-time news and video interviews on growth companies listed in Australia, has covered the following companies:

Clean TeQ Water Ltd (ASX:CNQ) shares rose 6% intra-day to $0.62 after signing an exclusive global technology licence agreement with Soane Labs LLC for its Accelerated Dewatering Technology, known as ATA. Click here

Riversgold Ltd (ASX:RGL) has signed a sale and purchase agreement to acquire eight highly prospective lithium tenements south of Southern Cross, near Marvel Loch in the West Australian goldfields. Click here

Stelar Metals Ltd (ASX:SLB) has snapped up the Baratta Copper Project in South Australias prolific Adelaide Fold Belt. Click here

Tempus Resources Ltd (ASX:TMR, TSX-V:TMRR) has delivered the best intersection ever with bonanza gold grades up to 523g/t over 0.42 metres from its diamond drilling program at the Elizabeth Gold Project in Southern British Columbia, Canada. Click here

Valor Resources Ltd (ASX:VAL) has identified six high-priority drill targets from its recent airborne gravity survey and historical data review of the Hidden Bay Uranium Project, situated 20 kilometres south-southwest of the historical Rabbit Lake Mine in the Athabasca Basin, Canada. Click here

BlackEarth Minerals NL (ASX:BEM) has materially increased its total graphite inventory by both tonnes and grade at the Razafy Northwest (NW) Graphite Deposit within the Maniry Graphite Project in Madagascar. Click here

Latin Resources Ltd (ASX:LRS) has embarked on the next chapter at its Salinas Lithium Project in Brazil after appointing a leading mining consultant to kick off feasibility studies. Click here

Noxopharm Ltd (ASX:NOX)s CEP-2 sarcoma trial assessing the combination of Veyonda with chemotherapy drug doxorubicin has cleared its first safety milestone. Click here

Cooper Metals Ltd (ASX:CPM) has raised $2.55 million, having received firm commitments to place approximately 5.67 million shares at A$0.45 per share in an oversubscribed placement to local institutions and sophisticated investors. Click here

Gascoyne Resources Ltd (ASX:GCY) has proven the potential of the Gilbeys North Prospect of the Dalgaranga Gold Operations in Western Australia with down-dip extensional drilling returning an exceptional result of 32 metres at 8.58 g/t gold from 167 metres downhole with a higher-grade component of 14 metres at 16.4 g/t gold. Click here

Critical Resources Ltd (ASX:CRR) has intersected multiple spodumene-bearing pegmatite dykes totalling up to 28.25 metres from its recent drilling campaign at its Mavis Lake Lithium Project in Canada, delivering one of the largest cumulative intersections at the project. Click here

Anson Resources Ltd (ASX:ASN) has confirmed the resource expansion potential of its recently pegged new claims at the western extent of the Paradox Lithium Project in Utah, USA. Click here

Provaris Energy Ltd (ASX:PV1) has established its European corporate office in Oslo, Norway, and registered a subsidiary known as Provaris Norway AS. Click here

Cobre Ltd (ASX:CBE) has doubled down on the Ngami Copper Project (NCP) and Kitlanya West licences in Botswana with an infill diamond drilling campaign  designed to define a new copper deposit at Ngami  and a soil sampling program over Kitlanya, which will investigate the regional opportunities of the Kalahari Copper Belt (KCB). Click here

Meeka Metals Ltd (ASX:MEK) has completed the sale of the Gecko North Project (E15/1587) to LithGold Minerals Ltd (formerly Origin Gold Mines Ltd). Click here

White Rock Minerals Ltd (ASX:WRM, OTCQX:WRMCF) has demonstrated the golden potential of its Morning Star Gold Mine after intersecting more than 300 g/t of the precious metal. Click here

Tempest Minerals Ltd (ASX:TEM) has inked a conditional agreement with Lole Mining Ltd to acquire the companys assets in Papua New Guinea, including the Tolukuma Mine  which historically produced more than 1 million ounces of gold and holds the potential to elevate Tempest to gold producer status. Click here

Castillo Copper Ltd (LSE:CCZ, ASX:CCZ) is one step closer to turning the soil on base metal targets at the Broken Hill Alliance (BHA) project in NSWs far west. Click here

Apollo Minerals Ltd (ASX:AON) has discovered yet more shallow, high-grade zinc-lead mineralisation at Dikaki, part of the province-scale Kroussou Zinc-Lead Project in Gabon. Click here

Magmatic Resources Ltd (ASX:MAG) has the drills turning at the Corvette prospect, part of its 100%-owned Myall Project, some 60 kilometres north along strike of the world-class Northparkes Mine. Click here
Celebrating August double-day 8/8, Vietjet launched an attractive promotion program for its Indian flyers to get the best deals during the three golden days. Starting August 8 till 10:30 PM of August 10, 2022 (IST), Vietjet is offering 888,888 promotional tickets by applying the code VIETJET88 to receive up to 88 percent discount on Eco fares when booking tickets at the company's website, Vietjet Air mobile app, and Facebook. Promotional tickets are applied to all domestic routes across Vietnam and international destinations with the travel from August 15, 2022, to March 26, 2023.

Promotional tickets can be booked for all routes from New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Bengaluru to Vietnams capital Hanoi, the countrys largest city of Ho Chi Minh, Asias famous coastal city of Da Nang and the beach paradise of Phu Quoc. Customers can also reserve best fare deals to connect from Vietnam to various destinations across Asia including Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Seoul, Busan, Bali, Bangkok, Phuket, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur among others.

In addition, Indian passengers can enjoy the Rs 9 ticket promotion applied to all 17 routes connecting India and Vietnam when booking every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday with the travel from August 15, 2022, to March 26, 2023.

Vietjet currently operates 4 services linking New Delhi/Mumbai with Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City with 4 flights per week each. The New Delhi/Mumbai - Phu Quoc services will commence operation from September 9 with 3-4 flights per week.

Vietnam has lifted the arrival regulations relating to Covid-19 and travellers can enjoy a complete pre-pandemic fashion arriving in Vietnam. Indian travellers can easily apply for e-visa and enjoy their upcoming trips to Vietnam. Especially, all international travellers coming to Phu Quoc are eligible for a 30-day visa exemption to experience all the good stuff that the paradise island has to offer. The S-shaped country is more than ready to welcome international travellers to visit and explore its magnificent scenery.
Mumbai: Filmmaker Advait Chandan, who has directed Aamir Khans latest movie 'Laal Singh Chaddha', on Monday hit back at those claiming that paid trolls had been hired to create a controversy around the film.

Aamir Khan-starrer 'Laal Singh Chaddha' has been embroiled in controversies ever since its trailer was released. After facing a boycott trend on Twitter, new reports surfaced online that alleged the trolls were "paid" to create buzz around the film.

Reacting to such allegations, filmmaker Chandan took to Instagram and uploaded a note -- packing in a sharp sarcastic punch against those casting aspersions ."I am told there are people being paid to troll Aamir Sir. This is deeply upsetting to hear and its outright unfair. Why have I been trolling him for free?" Advait said taking a jibe. He added the hashtag PayEveryTroll.

In 2015, Aamir Khan said in an interview, "Our country is very tolerant, but there are people who spread ill-will". His wife Kiran Rao also made headlines for saying that she considered leaving the country for the safety of their children. Reacting to the particular interview, Twitter users put up posts using hashtags such as BoycottLaalSinghChaddha and Boycottaamirkhan.

The trolls also dug up when Aamir met Turkeys First Lady Emine Erdogan while he was shooting for Laal Singh Chaddha there. Netizens were unhappy with the meeting as it happened in the backdrop of Turkeys increasing anti-India and pro-Pakistan stand.

The recent social media trends have got Aamir worried that he had to request people to watch his film. "That Boycott Bollywood... Boycott Aamir Khan... Boycott Laal Singh Chaddha... I feel sad also because a lot of people who are saying this in their hearts believe I am someone who doesnt like India... In their hearts, they believe that... And thats quite untrue. I really love the country... That`s how I am. It is rather unfortunate that some people feel that way. I want to assure everyone that it's not the case so please don't boycott my films, please watch my films," Aamir told Mumbai media recently.

Aamirs Laal Singh Chaddha is an official Hindi adaptation of the Academy Award-winning 1994 film Forrest Gump, which had Tom Hanks in the lead role. It is scheduled to release on August 11. Kareena Kapoor Khan and Mona Singh are also a part of the film.
New Delhi: A family of four, including a three-month-old baby plunged straight into a canal while following Google Maps in Kerala. As per media reports, the driver was following Google Maps, however the driver did not anticipate what was apparently a canal that the Map was directing to, and it fell straight into the water.

Luckily though, the family had a miraculous escape. The locals in the area saw the car sliding into the canal and rushed to the spot to rescue the family. They tied the car with ropes and pulled it out of the water.

A family of four had to be rescued after their car plunged into a canal in Kerala. According to media reports, the driver had been following directions from Google Maps which led their vehicle straight into the water on Thursday night.

As per media reports the family --Dr Soniya along with her three-month-old daughter, mother Sosamma and another relative were travelling to Kumbanad in Kerala when the incident occured.

The family purportedly was using Google Maps for direction and when they reached a canal near Parachal, Maps recommended driving straight. However, the driver could not notice the curve of the road, and during this confusion, plunged into the canal.

In the past too, several instances were reported when due to in accurate Google navigation, people either missed their destination or were lost completely.

Couple of years ago, a resident in Minneapolis, Minnesota (US) complained that Google Maps told him to go over the frozen Mississippi river. The man, after following Google Maps instructions walked through the river before falling through the ice.
New Delhi: On August 15 this year, India will commemorate its 75 Independence Day. While the whole country is celebrating "Azaadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav", it also provides a strong pitch to highlight the name and fame of the companies that were formed before the country's Independence and bringing glory to the country ever since.

Here is looking at 7 BIG INDIAN MULTINATIONAL CORPORATIONS founded before Independence.

1) TATA Group

TATA Group is one of the oldest business empires of India, having its business in over 100 countries today. It was founded by Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata in 1968. The group consists of a broad variety of businesses including steel, automobile, consultancy service, hotels, communications, chemicals, beverages, and many more.

(ALSO READ: Kharif 2022: Paddy area down 13% so far due to deficient rains in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar and Chhattisgarh)

2) CIPLA Limited

With the mission Never again India be starved of essential drugs, Dr. K. A. Hamied founded CIPLA ltd in 1937. Established in Bombay (Mumbai), the company is the leading Indian drug manufacturer now. It supplies drugs to over 100 countries across the globe today.

(ALSO READ: WhatsApp update: Now you have 2 days to delete messages after sending - Check details!)

3) BRITANNIA

Once the brand name Britannia props up, people usually exclaim in disbelief --based on the common perception whether the company is domestic or not. Britannia is actually an Indian company that was established during colonial rule. Founded in 1892 in Calcutta (Kolkata), the company made great strides to become an important player in FMCG companies. Today, the company has become a global brand whose portfolio includes rusk, biscuits, bread, cakes, dairy products, beverages, and yogurt and cheese. Wadia group is the parent company of Britannia.

4) MAHINDRA GROUP

Mahindra Group is an Indian multinational conglomerate, headquartered in Mumbai. The history of the Mahindra group goes back to 1945 with the beginning of Mahindra & Mahindra & Muhammad company by three founders - JC & KC Mahindra & Malik Ghulam Muhammad. Currently, Anand Mahindra is the chairman of Mahindra group, whose businesses in different segments expand over 100 countries across the globe.

5) BIRLA GROUP

Ghanshyam Das Birla's grandfather Seth Shiv Narayan Birla laid the foundation of Birla Group in 1857 as an Industry in Pilani, a small town in Rajasthans Shekawati region. It is now a multinational corporate having its presence in branded apparel, cement, textile, fertilizers, chemicals, iron, sponges, financial services, BPO, and so on. It operates in 36 countries around the globe with 1.5 lakh employees.

6) DABUR

Dabur was established by Dr. S.K Burman in 1884 in Calcutta to make health care products. Operating in 120 countries today, Dabur has expanded its business including personal care, skincare, hair care, oral hygiene, and Health supplement drinks. It is one of the fastest growing fast-moving consumer goods companies in India.

7) GODREJ GROUP

Godrej was established in 1897 by Ardeshir Godrej and P.B Godrej. Godrej group, which includes Godrej industries, is now a multinational corporation with a portfolio including real estate, engineering, appliances, furniture, security, and farming products.
New Delhi: Raksha Bandhan is just a few days away, and a social media post about a man looking for sisters to celebrate the occasion has gone viral. The Mumbai resident posted about his search on Reddit, claiming that he used Tinder to find a sister. Thanks to the dating app, he now has two. His Reddit post received over 500 upvotes in two days, and a large number of users congratulated him.

In his Reddit post, the man said,"I have felt the FOMO for most of my life during Rakshabandhan as I do not have any sister. No one to tie me Rakhi and me gifting them stuff. Anyways, since last 2 years I have been putting the bio as follows during 2 weeks before Rakshabandhan: "Looking for a sister to hangout during Rakshabandhan"." Read More:

"Thanks to tinder, now I have like two sisters both of whom I met on tinder. This year all 3 of us are planning to get together and celebrate Rakshabandhan and exchange gifts and stuff. I'm so excited," he further added. Read More:

A Kerala man gained notoriety in June for using the dating app Bumble to search for an apartment in Mumbai.

Screenshots of the man's Bumble profile were posted on Twitter. "a sapiosexual is not. In search of an apartment in Mumbai, "the bio was read.

The man even instructed users to swipe right on his profile if they are in Mumbai and feel comfortable assisting him in finding a place near the Western Line since he does not speak Hindi in the attached screenshot.

Numerous users favoured the post, and one of them referred to the man as "genius." Another person added, "On Bumble, many look for a place in their hearts, but he looks for a place in a flat.
New Delhi: As part of cost-cutting initiatives in the face of the economy's slowdown, a number of tech companies are firing employees. After companies like Netflix, Twitter, TikTok, Microsoft, and some other tech companies announced layoffs, a report now claims Snap intends to do the same.

According to insiders with knowledge of the situation, Snap is just beginning to plan layoffs. However, the company hasn't yet provided any specific information on the same. The news of the layoffs follows Snap's disappointing earnings report. Read More: Bizarre! Not GF, man looks for sisters on Tinder to tie rakhi; check viral Reddit post

The precise number of Snap's 6,000 employees who will be let go is unknown. According to the report, managers across the organisation are still in the planning stages and have not made any decisions regarding who will be let go and why. Read More: Burger King sends blank order receipt to all, customers baffled

Well, it's obvious that Snap has planned to fire employees in the past. 2018 marked the last time Snap let go of some of its staff. Well, it's not like Snap's CEO didn't issue a layoff warning. Snap CEO Evan Spiegel announced to staff members earlier this year that the company would reduce hiring and "find additional cost savings."

In the past few years, Snap has fought hard to expand, particularly to establish an advertising business and sell hardware items like selfie drones.

Sadly, Snap is not the only tech company that has experienced layoffs. As a cost-cutting measure, tech companies like TikTok, Twitter, Alibaba, Microsoft, and others have recently let go of hundreds of employees. Not only that, but major tech firms like Google and Meta reported slower hiring despite the weakening economy. Additionally, according to Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, there are more employees than there is work to be done.
Patna: Amid strong speculations about a rift between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (United) led NDA alliance in Bihar, a senior Janata Dal (United) leader and former Union Minister Upendra Kushwaha has said that everything`s fine in the alliance. "Yes absolutely...everything is fine in the NDA alliance.. Today we are not making any claim but Nitish Kumar has all the qualifications to become the Prime Minister," said Kushwaha.

His remarks came in wake of the Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar skipping the NITI Aayog meeting and JD-U leader RCP Singh tendering his resignation. Taking a jibe at Singh, Kushwaha said, "RCP Singh`s statement is very objectionable and shows his mental bankruptcy.

"Earlier senior JDU leader Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan confirmed the news of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar`s call for a meeting of JD-U MLAs and MPs on Tuesday at 11 am amid speculation of a rift with ally Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Simultaneously, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) has convened a meeting on Tuesday at 11 am to discuss political developments in Bihar.

Earlier on Monday, the Congress party also convened a meeting of its legislature party in Bihar to contemplate the evolving political scenario in the state. The rumours of a possible spilt between JD-U and BJP escalated after Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar skipped the NITI Aayog meeting.

While talking to mediapersons in Patna, JD-U National President Lalan Singh said, "I read in the newspapers that RCP Singh has said that he was told by Union Home Minister Amit Shah that his name had been approved for ministership."

"He claimed to have taken oath after informing the CM. But this only confirms what we have been accusing RCP Singh of," the JD-U national president added.

"Our charge is that RCP Singh became a minister as per his own free will. He has dropped the name of Shah. Does Shah belong to our party? Can the BJP decide which JD-U leader will become a minister," Lalan questioned.

Earlier on Sunday, Nitish Kumar skipped the NITI Aayog meeting held by Prime Minister Narendra Modi while RCP Singh announced his exit from the party after JD-U sought a reply on corruption allegations against him on Saturday.
Mumbai: A day ahead of the Maharashtra cabinet expansion, former Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray nominated the party MLC, Ambadas Danve, for the post of the Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Writing to the chairman of the Legislative Council, Uddhav Thackeray said that the party MLCs had authorised him to nominate a candidate for the post of LoP in a meeting on July 9. This development comes amid speculations that the Shiv Sena president would resign from the Maharashtra Legislative Council. Uddhav has not formally resigned from the said post even after 40 days when he had announced this decision while stepping down as the chief minister.

Notably, the Sena nominated party MLC Ambadas Danve hails from Aurangabad, a district which has four rebel Sena MLAs. Last month, a delegation of Shiv Sena MLCs Manisha Kayande, Sachin Ahir, Ambadas Danve, Vilas Potnis and Sunil Shinde met Legislative Council Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe and submitted a letter regarding the LoP and chief whip, according to a PTI report.

As of July 8, the 78-member Maharashtra Legislative Council has 24 members from the BJP, 12 from the Shiv Sena and 10 each from the Congress and the NCP. Lok Bharti, Peasants and Workers Party of India and Rashtriya Samaj Paksh have one member each. There are four Independents, while 15 seats in the Legislative Council are vacant. If Danve becomes the Leader of Opposition, it will be a rare instance of the chief minister and the LoP in the Legislative Council belonging to the same party but different factions.

Also read: Maharashtra cabinet expansion today; over a dozen ministers likely to be inducted

It may be noted here that there has been no explanation available from Shiv Sena on why Thackeray has not yet formally resigned as an MLC after he announced his decision on the night of June 29. When Uddhav Thackeray took oath as the chief minister in November 2019 after the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) was formed, he was not a member of the either House of the state legislature. He was elected as MLC on May 18, 2020, with a tenure of six years.

Thackeray announced his resignation as the Maharashtra CM on June 29 night after the Supreme Court refused to stay a floor test necessitated after 39 of the 55 MLAs of Shiv Sena aligned with rebel Eknath Shinde. Shinde took oath as the chief minister on June 30 along with Devendra Fadnavis of the Bharatiya Janata Party, who is Deputy CM.

BJP leaders meet at Fadnavis' residence on eve of cabinet expansion

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders on Monday assembled at the Mumbai residence of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss the names of the probables to be inducted into the state cabinet on Tuesday.

Besides finalising the names of new ministers who will take the oath at Raj Bhavan, the BJP leaders are learnt to have discussed the organisational appointments to be made ahead of crucial civic elections in Mumbai and other cities and the 2024 Lok Saba elections.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday evening said he will expand his 40-day-old ministry on August 9. A dozen ministers will take oath at Tuesday's ceremony at Raj Bhavan in south Mumbai at 11 am, an aide of Shinde had told PTI on condition of anonymity. Currently, Shinde and Fadnavis are the only two ministers in the 40-day-old government.

(With PTI Inputs)
NEW DELHI: Putting all speculations to rest, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday made a BIG announcement  ''alliance with the BJP is over.'' Although a formal announcement is yet to be made in this regard, sources said that Nitish Kumar-led JDU has decided to part ways with the BJP during a crucial meeting of party MLAs.

The Bihar CM, who had sought time to meet Governor Phagu Chauhan in the evening, reportedly told the Janata Dal-United MLAs that his partys alliance with the BJP is over now. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar met with his party MLAs before coming to his decision on dumping the BJP for a second time.

#BiharPoliticalCrisis | Bihar CM and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar to meet Governor Phagu Chauhan today at 4pm, at Raj Bhavan.



(File photo) pic.twitter.com/mmaMT2p8KB  ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2022

During the crucial JDU meeting today, all MLAs and MPs of the party supported CM Nitish Kumars decision and said that they are with him. They said that they will always be with him, whatever he may decide, said sources.

The tension between the two parties has hit a breakpoint over Nitish Kumar's concerns that Union Minister Amit Shah is working relentlessly to split the Janata Dal (United). The Bihar CM also blamed RCP Singh, a former JDU leader, for serving as Amit Shah's proxy. It may be recalled that RCP Singh quit the JDU on the weekend after his party accused him of deep corruption.

The blame game has fuelled speculations of a rift between Bihar's ruling JDU and the BJP. Meanwhile, Bihar Governor Phagu Chauhan has given time to Nitish Kumar at 2 PM because ministers of the BJP will be meeting him at 1.30 PM, said sources. Nitish Kumar will then submit his resignation to the Governor.



Sources also said that all 16 ministers of the BJP will hand over their resignation letters to the Governor. The BJP ministers assembled at the official residence of Deputy Chief Minister Tar Kishore Prasad, from where they will go to the Raj Bhawan. The BJP will also organise a press meet at 1.30 p.m. in Patna to disclose its future strategy.

On the other hand, Congress and Left parties today handed over the lists of their legislators to Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav. Mandan Mohan Singh, the state president of Congress said, "We will support Nitish Kumar if he leaves the BJP and forms a new government with the help of Mahagathbandhan. We have also given the list of all 19 MLAs of our party to RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav."

Mahboob Alam, the MLA of CPI (ML) said, "We have also given the list to Tejashwi Yadav. We will uproot the BJP from power. We are giving support to Nitish Kumar for the formation of a new government." Sources said that Tejashwi Yadav has demanded the home ministry portfolio and the post of Speaker.

Interestingly, Nitish Kumar's party supported NDA candidates in presidential and vice-presidential polls. However, his absence at a number of events, including the recent NITI Aayog meeting on Sunday, has further fuelled speculations about a widening rift between the two alliance partners.

The two parties have in the recent past squabbled on issues ranging from Agnipath Scheme, caste census, population law and the ban on loudspeakers to name a few.
New Delhi: Nitish Kumar is all set to be the leader of the Mahagathbandhan or grand alliance between JD(U) and RJD after breaking alliance with the BJP. Kumar had resigned as the chief minister of Bihar on Tuesday (Aug 9) and then headed to RJD leader Tejashvi Yadav's residence. It is speculated that Nitish will return as the chief minister and Tejashvi Yadav as deputy chief minister with a new government.

Political analysts are not suprised by Nitish Kumar's decision to back off from the BJP alliance as he has switched parties in the past as well. This is why RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav had mocked Nitish Kumar by calling him as 'Paltu Ram'.

Also Read: 'Nitish Kumar is a PATIENT of ego AND...', Union Minister ATTACKS Bihar Chief Minister

Nitish Kumar had been the chief minister of Bihar since 2005, the longest-serving CM of the state. He has twice switched sides from the NDA camp to the Grand Alliance and then to the NDA. However, somehow, it has managed to have the upper hand in governance.

Earlier, when PM Narendra Modi had become the face of BJP before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Nitish had refused to support the BJP. Then ahead of the 2015 assembly elections, Nitish joined Lalu Yadav's RJD to form a grand alliance, this left the BJP out of power.

However, in 2017, the JD(U) and RJD relationship went downhill after Nitish's stance on the CBI probe on Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tejashvi Yadav in the IRCTC scam case.

Reports suggest that there were cracks in the BJP-Nitish Kumar alliance since 2020. It purpotedly began when in the 2020 Assembly polls, the BJP was unsure about declaring Nitish Kumar as the CM.

They also had contrasting views on several issues such as proposal for population control, caste census, and the denial of Central university status to Patna university.
Wisconsin Lt. Gov. and Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Mandela Barnes speaks at a rally in July 2022. (Morry Gash / Associated Press)

Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes won the Democratic Senate primary on Tuesday and will face two-term Republican Sen. Ron Johnson in what is expected to be one of the countrys most competitive races as the parties battle for control of the U.S. Senate.

Barnes top rivals dropped out of the race late last month and backed the former legislator, a sign of Democrats intense focus on defeating Johnson, who is one of former President Trumps most vocal supporters. The Senate is currently split 50-50, with Democrats relying on Vice President Kamala Harris to break ties, and the Wisconsin contest is one of the few races seen as toss-ups in November.

In his victory speech in Milwaukee, Barnes emphasized his middle-class background and upbringing while casting Johnson as self-serving and an out-of-touch politician who cares only about special interests and wealthy donors.

It is time for a change, everybody, said Barnes, who would be Wisconsin's first Black senator if elected. Its time for us to be represented by somebody who shares our experiences.

Johnson called Barnes the most radical left candidate Democrats could have chosen.

This is a contest between radical left socialism versus freedom and prosperity, he said.

Voters also were choosing a Republican nominee for Wisconsin governor who could reshape how elections are conducted in the marquee battleground, where Trump is still pressing to overturn his 2020 loss and backing candidates he sees as allies.

Trump has endorsed businessman Tim Michels, a self-described outsider who has put $12 million into his own campaign, against former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who has support from former Vice President Mike Pence and ex-Gov. Scott Walker. Both candidates falsely claim the 2020 election was rigged, though Kleefisch has said decertifying the results is not constitutional, while Michels said everything will be on the table.

The race to face Democratic Gov. Tony Evers is another proxy war between Trump and Pence, onetime partners now pursuing different futures for the Republican Party. They also backed opposing GOP rivals in primaries in Arizona and Georgia  swing states that like Wisconsin are expected to be critical in the 2024 presidential race, when both men could be on the ballot.

Story continues

The primary comes a day after FBI agents searched Trumps Mar-a-Lago estate as part of an investigation into whether he took classified records from the White House to his Florida residence, two people familiar with the matter told the Associated Press.

Trump also has backed a little-known challenger to the state's most powerful Republican, state Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, who has rejected the former president's pressure to decertify the 2020 results.

Tuesday's outcomes have far-reaching consequences beyond Wisconsin, a state that is almost evenly split between Republicans and Democrats and where 2022 will be seen as a bellwether for the 2024 presidential race. The person elected governor in the fall will be in office for the presidential election and will be able to sign or veto changes to election laws passed by the Republican-controlled Legislature. The next governor and U.S. senator also may sway decisions on issues including abortion, education and taxes.

Were a 50-50 state and so every race in Wisconsin, just by definition, is going to be decided by a few percentage points one way or another, said former Gov. Jim Doyle, a Democrat. And those few percentage points in Wisconsin may well determine what the course of the nation is in the coming years.

Elsewhere Tuesday, another Trump-backed candidate won Connecticut's GOP primary to face two-term Democratic Sen. Richard Blumenthal. Republican National Committee member Leora Levy, whom Trump endorsed last week, defeated former state House Minority Leader Themis Klarides, who had support from the state party. Voters in Vermont  the only state to never have a woman in its congressional delegation  chose a woman, Becca Balint, as the Democratic nominee for the states lone House seat. She is favored in the race to replace Rep. Peter Welch, who won the Democratic nomination for the Senate seat long held by Patrick J. Leahy, who is retiring. And Minnesota Republicans chose Dr. Scott Jensen, a COVID-19 vaccine skeptic endorsed by the state GOP, to face Gov. Tim Walz.

But the most-watched races are in Wisconsin, where Trump has kept up his pressure campaign to cancel President Biden's 2020 victory. Biden won by nearly 21,000 votes, four years after Trump also narrowly won the state by roughly the same margin. The 2020 outcome has been upheld in two partial recounts, a nonpartisan audit, a review by a conservative law firm and multiple lawsuits.

Both Michels and Kleefisch have said overturning the 2020 election results is not a priority. But they have said they would dismantle the bipartisan commission that runs Wisconsin elections and would support prohibitions on voters having someone else turn in their absentee ballots, as well as ballot drop boxes located anywhere other than staffed clerk offices.

Evers has made voting and elections a focus of his own campaign, telling voters he's the only candidate who will defend democracy and "we are that close to not having our vote count in the state of Wisconsin.

Kleefisch is a former TV reporter who served with Walker for two terms, including when he in effect ended collective bargaining for most public employees in the state in 2011, drawing huge protests and a failed recall attempt. She says she is the best prepared to win statewide in November and to enact conservative priorities, including investing more in police, expanding school choice programs and implementing a flat income tax.

During a campaign stop with Kleefisch last week, Pence said no other gubernatorial candidate in the U.S. is more capable, more experienced, or a more proven conservative.

Michels is co-owner of Wisconsin's largest construction company and has touted his work to build his family's business. He lost the 2004 Senate race to Democratic Sen. Russ Feingold, and has been a major donor to GOP politicians.

At a rally Friday, Trump praised Michels as an incredible success story. He criticized Kleefisch as part of the failed establishment" and also took aim at Vos. He told supporters that Michels will win the primary easily and that he's the better choice to defeat Evers.

Michels pledged that we are going to have election integrity here in Wisconsin." He also said he will bring law and order back to Wisconsin, criticized Evers' handling of schools and blamed Biden for rising prices.

Voter Gary Steinbrecher, 62, said he cast his ballot Tuesday for Kleefisch because she opposes abortion and has been around for a long time. He also thinks she has the best chance of defeating Evers.

I think she would appeal to the suburban women voters more than the other candidates, said Steinbrecher, who is semi-retired.

Franklin Szpot, 42, voted for Michels. He said he appreciated that Michels is a business owner and that he served in the U.S. Army. Szpot also liked the candidate's to the point commercials.

It just seems like he is a no-nonsense kind of guy and thats the kind of person we need in office right now, he said.

GOP state Rep. Tim Ramthun is also making a long-shot bid for governor, and has made rescinding Wisconsins 10 electoral votes for Biden the centerpiece of his campaign.

The candidate Trump endorsed to take on Vos, Adam Steen, has said he would decertify Biden's victory.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Patna: Is it over between the BJP and Nitish Kumar's JD(U) in Bihar? Amid speculation of a split between the NDA alliance in Bihar, Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar is all set to meet Governor Phagu Chauhan today at 4 pm, at Raj Bhavan. Meanwhile, the BJP will hold a meeting at 5 pm. Also amid rumours of a rift with the BJP, it also seems that RJD will be back in alliance with the JD(U). Lalu Prasad Yadav's daughter Sonali Acharya had tweeted in Hindi which roughly translates to: "Prepare for the upcoming coronation, lantern bearers". The lantern is the symbol of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), which was founded by Lalu.

Earlier in the day, MLAs and leaders of the Rashtriya Janata Dal met at the residence of Rabri Devi, wife of party chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in Patna on Tuesday. The meeting of the RJD was convened by its leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, the son of Lalu Yadav also saw leaders of the CPI-ML and Congress - part of Mahagathbandhan, the grand Opposition alliance in the state - attending.

Singh, once considered a close aide of Nitish Kumar had announced his exit from the party after being served a notice seeking an explanation on allegations of corruption. The RJD-led Opposition in the state has meanwhile said that it will welcome any re-alignment in Bihar's ruling coalition without the BJP.

"For a long time, the people of Bihar had been wanting the government with BJP to go and a people's government to be formed. The BJP which has captured the Parliament wanted to do the same in the Bihar assembly but we will not let their intentions succeed. We will support the overthrow of the BJP from power," said Mahboob Alam, MLA of the CPI (ML). Bihar Congress chief Madan Mohan Jha said "There seems to be a situation of instability and in such a situation then definitely something will come out. The Central government has been using the central agencies. The situation has never been right for the past one year."

The Vikassheel Insaan Party chief Mukesh Sahani had earlier said that the BJP is indulging in politics of finishing its own alliance partners in many states. "It tried to break the JD(U) but Kumar took action. Earlier too, it did politics through Chirag Paswan. It's better to take timely action," Sahani said.

Chief minister Nitish Kumar had also called a meeting at his official residence of members of both houses of Parliament and the state legislature. JD(U) MLC Kumud Verma and party MP Sunil Kumar were seen arriving at the residence of the Chief Minister.

The RJD had emerged as the single-largest party in the 2020 Assembly elections in which the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 125 seats- BJP won 74, the JD(U) bagged 43, the Vikassheel Insaan Party got 4 and Hindustan Awaam Party (Secular) bagged 4 seats.
Bihar Politics Update: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today submitted his resignation to Governor Phaghu Chauhan, hours after announing a break-up of alliance with Bharatiya Janata Party. The JDU chief, according to sources, will soon stake claim to power along with Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janata Dal. In the new set-up, Tejashwi Yadav is likely to become the Deputy Chief Minister.

While announcing break-up of alliance, Nitish Kumar had said: "It's a collective call to leave the NDA". The move came after a meeting of the JD(U) at the official residence of Nitish Kumar here. In the JD(U) meeting today, all MLAs and MPs of the party supported chief minister Kumar`s decision and said that they were with him. They also asserted that they will continue to support Kumar in his decision.Police personnel were seen deployed in force outside the chief minister`s residence.

According to ANI sources, many JD(U) legislators told chief minister Kumar in today`s meeting that the alliance with the BJP had weakened them since 2020.Without naming Chirag Paswan, the legislators are reported to have recalled the actions of former Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief during the 2020 state assembly polls while warning the CM that if they were not alert, it would not be good for the party.

Paswan had fielded rebel BJP candidates in all seats fought by the JD(U) in the 2020 polls, in what some have alleged was part of a plot of the BJP to wedge its way into the ruling coalition in the state.Meanwhile, a meeting of the Mahagathbandhan opposition alliance was also held here today at former chief minister Rabri Devi`s residence with participation of leaders of the CPI-ML and the Congress - part of the Opposition `Mahagathbandhan` alliance in the state.

According to sources, after the meeting Rashtriya Janata Dal MLAs, MLCs and Rajya Sabha MP authorised party leader Tejashwi Yadav to take a decision and asserted their support to him. According to sources, Congress and Left parties MLAs have also expressed their supported to Yadav.

Sources said that RJD party supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav is closely watching the developments but everything was being done by Tejashwi Yadav.Meanwhile, Lalu Prasad Yadav`s daughter Rohini Acharya took to Twitter to post about an impending political change in the state.

"Get ready for the coronation, lantern holder", she tweeted in Hindi and added a `victory` emoticon to it.Rumours of a growing rift between the BJP-JDU ie the NDA alliance in Bihar intensified after Kumar skipped a key meeting of the NITI Aayog, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday and JD(U) leader RCP Singh tendered his resignation from the party.

Singh, once considered a close aide of Nitish Kumar had announced his exit from the party after being served a notice seeking an explanation on allegations of corruption.The RJD-led Opposition in the state has said that it will welcome any re-alignment in Bihar`s ruling coalition without the BJP.

Ahead of the RJD convened meeting today, Congress Bihar legislature party leader Ajit Sharma said: "If Nitish Kumar comes, we`ll welcome him. If he comes we will support him.A meeting of Mahagathbandhan is being held. We should take a decision to support (him) by considering Nitish Kumar as the CM but we`ll be able to tell you only after the meeting."Bihar BJP leaders also met at deputy chief minister Tarkishore Prasad`s residence in Patna on Tuesday.
ICAI CA Foundation Result 2022: The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) has released the CA Foundation result date. As per the notice, result will be declared tomorrow, August 10. Candidates will be able to download their scorecards at  icai.org. The result time has not been disclosed by ICAI. The candidate must sign in to the ICAI's official website to view their score. The home page will provide a link to the results. They must enter the numbers on their registration and roll card. On the screen, the outcome will be seen.

Once released, the CA Foundation Results 2022 will be accessible on official website as published by ICAI. As it always does, ICAI will also announce a result date and time prior to the declaration of the results.

Important Announcement - Results of the ICAI Chartered Accountancy Foundation Examination held in June 2022 are likely to be declared on Wednesday, 10th August 2022. Candidates can check the results on the website https://t.co/TAu5OcT57n

Detailshttps://t.co/lRnJqYJo7C pic.twitter.com/45T22llup3  Institute of Chartered Accountants of India - ICAI (@theicai) August 8, 2022

ICAI CA Results 2022: Heres how to download result

Visit the official site of ICAI on icai.nic.in.

Click on CA Foundation Result 2022 link available on the home page.

Enter the login details and click on submit.

Your result will be displayed on the screen.

Check the result and download the page.

Keep a hard copy of the same for further need.

The minimum passing score for the CA Foundation test is 40% on each paper, and the overall pass grade cannot be less than 50%. On the website, icai.nic.in, candidates can download their scorecard for the CA Foundation test.
MPPSC Results 2022: The Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission, MPPSC Prelims Score Card 2022 has been released online on August 8, 2022. Candidates can now check their MPPSC Prelims Result 2022 from the official website - mppsc.mp.gov.in.

Here's how to download MPPSC Prelims Result 2022

Candidates must visit the official website of Madhya Pradesh Public Service Commission - mppsc.mp.gov.in. On the homepage, click on the link that reads, 'MPPSC State Services Prelims 2022 - Score Card.' Enter your login credentials, as asked like Roll Number and Date of Birth. Your MPPSC Prelims Score Card will be displayed on your screen. Download and print a copy of it for future references.

It is pertinent to note that candidates they can download the MPPSC Prelims score cards till November 8, 2022. After this, the link to download will be taken down. MPPSC State Services Prelims exam held on June 19, 2022.
New Delhi: Two "highly radicalised" Bangladeshi nationals, allegedly involved in propagating 'Jihad' in India by posting hateful and incriminating materials online, were arrested from Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, a spokesperson of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) said Monday. Hamidullah alias 'Raju Gaji' of Narayanganj district and Mohammad Sahadat Hussain alias "Abidullah" of Madaripur district in Bangladesh were arrested on Sunday, the spokesperson said.

They were arrested in a case related to the arrest of six active cadres of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), including three illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, from Aishbagh in Bhopal early this year, the spokesperson said.

The NIA said Hamidullah, also known by aliases 'Muffakir', 'Samad Ali Miyan' and 'Talha', and Hussain were close associates of the six arrested JMB members and were found using encrypted apps to communicate with their associates in India and Bangladesh.

"The arrested accused (Hamidullah and Hussain) are highly radicalised individuals and involved in propagating Jihad by posting hateful and incriminating materials online in various groups on different social media platforms to radicalise other people," the spokesperson said.

With the latest arrest, a total of nine accused have been held in the case so far, the official said.

The NIA said the arrested accused were found involved in propagating JMB ideology and motivating the youth to carry out 'Jihad' against India.

The case was initially registered on March 14 at Police Station STF Bhopal and re-registered by NIA on April 5.
New Delhi: In India, stock trading was offline before the internet's advent. Clients' orders were placed by stock brokers, who bought and sold stocks for them. Trading in stocks has significantly evolved over the years and has seen several significant shifts. Online trading has emerged as an ideal substitute and comprehensive solution for streamlining the entire trading process in India's share market.

Trades can be made online and offline at the same time. On the other hand, online trading has supplanted offline trading as the preferred method.

Because of this, it is impossible to overlook the majority of benefits you gain by switching to an online trading account from an offline account.

Top Online vs Offline Trading Differences

Now we'll get to the article's meat and discuss the pros and cons of trading online versus off. It's worth noting a few differences that have been highlighted below:

Intuitive Trading

You don't have to deal with anyone else when you trade online. Online share market is more convenient from today's perspective. Having an internet connection and a mobile device is all that is required. In this case, the transaction is completed in a matter of seconds.

On the other hand, brokers act on behalf of their clients in offline trading. Brokers here manually carry out the orders of their clients. With the rise of the internet, the concept of offline trade has become obsolete.

Risk and Security

Trading online is safer and less risky than trading in person. It is safer to trade on your own because you have complete control over the process. Brokerage, tax, and other fees can all be viewed directly from a trader's account. As a result, the entire process is becoming more efficient.

Customers in offline trading are less informed about the transaction process, which increases the likelihood of fraud. Since the entire transaction depends on the broker, they have complete control over handling the trade. Brokers can have a significant impact on the fees they charge, as well as the taxes they collect. Traders with little or no experience can easily be fooled in this area.

Brokerage

Because individual traders do online trading by share market app, it is much less expensive. Because there is no broker involved, there is no substantial financial burden. There are many brokers in India today, both discount and full-service. Traders with limited resources can save money by working with discount brokers.

Brokerage fees are higher in offline trading because brokers act as agents for their clients. As a result, the fees are exorbitant.

Study and Business

Successful trading relies on proper research before trading. It's not a good idea to rely solely on the analytical viewpoints of others. As a result, it is essential to conduct thorough research before engaging in any form of trading. Fundamental and technical research are the two main categories. Technical analysis is of the utmost importance in trading.

A single platform is needed to conduct research and trade in online trading. Indicators, candlesticks, oscillators, and other technical indicators play an important role in market analysis.

Every second of real-time data is critical when trading. There is virtually no room for live-field research in offline trading. Trading necessitates constant communication with brokers.

There is no such thing as a broker in the offline world, so traders must conduct their research before placing trades with them.

Flexibility

In the next section, we'll discuss how to be flexible. You can't compare the flexibility of online and offline options. Traders' productivity and profit margins are impacted by time and transaction costs.

Online traders don't have to go to the brokers' houses to place a trade; they can do everything from the comfort of their own homes. Expenses related to travel are not present in this instance. In addition, they can trade from their phone, laptop, or computer at any time. Traders are increasingly turning to mobile apps for quick and easy trade execution.

In contrast, there is no option to work from home in offline trading. Brokers are necessary for traders.

Because of this, online trading is more flexible than traditional trading. To trade, traders must travel to the brokers' homes, whereas online traders can do so alone.

Conclusion

Thus, online trading has made share trading more accessible, more convenient, quicker, and less hassle-free than it used to be. Make sure you can access multiple investment options by opening an account with a trusted financial partner. The best stock and scheme recommendations are also critical for maximizing profit booking.

(Above mentioned article is consumer connect initiative. This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of IDPL, and IDPL claims no responsibility whatsoever)
Kolkata: Authorities of the Presidency Central Correctional Home, where Trinamool Congress leader and former West Bengal minister Partha Chatterjee is lodged, have denied the latter`s plea for rice at both meals on medical grounds. A highly-placed official from the state Correctional Services Department said that as per practices for years, an inmate is offered rice at lunch and chapati at dinner.

"However, Chatterjee requested that rice be served both at lunch and dinner. But we are unable to do that since as per the direction of AIIMS-Bhubaneswar, Chatterjee is diabetic, and hence excessive consumption of rice is not good for his health. We have informed him about the obligations on this count and since then, he did not make the plea again. He was offered fish on Sunday like other inmates as per correction home rules that non-vegetarian food is served on Sundays," he said.

Partha Chatterjee's plea for a table fan also denied

Cell number 2 of ward number 22 of Presidency Central Correctional Home is fitted with a ceiling fan and Chatterjee`s plea for a table fan was also denied by the prison authorities.

This particular ward of the correctional home is a high-security ward and prison authorities keep a close vigil round the clock.

Partha Chatterjee to get a cot in his cell

However, following the repeated requests by Chatterjee, arrested in the multi-crore West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) recruitment scam, the authorities have agreed to provide him with a cot in his cell.

Earlier, he was provided with four blankets.

Chatterjee was using two as a mattress and the other two as pillows. However, Chatterjee repeatedly requested the jail authorities to provide him with a cot since because of his heavy body structure and weight, he has had immense problems lying on the ground. From Sunday night he had been provided with a cot at his cell.

Apart from that, the prison authorities have denied any other special treatment to Chatterjee as a former minister.

West Bengal SSC scam: Partha Chatterjee, Arpita Mukherjee to appear before court on August 18

Partha Chatterjee will be presented at the special court of the Public Money Laundering Act (PMLA) on August 18 again. His close associate Arpita Mukherjee, who has been housed at the Alipore Women Correctional Home will also be presented at the same court on the same day.
New Delhi: Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien on Monday (August 8, 2022) attacked the government over its decision to cut short the Monsoon session of Parliament and said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah are turning the great institution into a "Gujarat Gymkhana". His reaction came after both Houses of Parliament were adjourned sine die on Monday.

"This is the seventh consecutive time Parliament session has been cut short. Stop mocking Parliament. We will fight for its sanctity and prevent PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah from turning this great institution into the Gujarat Gymkhana," O'Brien said in a tweet.

THIS IS THE SEVENTH CONSECUTIVE TIME PARLIAMENT SESSION HAS BEEN CUT SHORT



Stop mocking #Parliament

We will fight for its sanctity and prevent PM @narendramodi @AmitShah from turning this great institution into the Gujarat Gymkhana  Derek O'Brien |  ' (@derekobrienmp) August 8, 2022

Hitting back at Mamata Banerjee's leader, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Pralhad Joshi said that Derek O'Brien should stop preaching about democratic values and the sanctity of institutions.

"The people of Bengal have elected BJP as the main opposition but TMC, in its arrogance, has denied BJP the post of PAC Chairman," Joshi said in a tweet.

"Will Derek O'Brien care to address how many days had the West Bengal Assembly functioned? Or is the State functioning as a Mamata Gymkhana?," the BJP leader added.

Will @derekobrienmp care to address about how many days had the West Bengal Assembly functioned? Or is the State functioning as a Mamata Gymkhana?  Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) August 8, 2022

Monsoon session of Parliament ends four days before schedule

The Monsoon session of Parliament ended on Monday, four days ahead of schedule, after continued disruptions during the last three weeks over issues like price rise, suspension of 27 MPs, the controversial "Rashtrapatni" remark, and the Enforcement Directorate's action.

Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha saw the passage of seven and five bills, respectively, during the session which was to end on August 12.

While Lok Sabha saw a total of 16 sittings that lasted for 44 hours and 29 minutes, the upper house met for 38 hours with as many as 47 hours lost due to disruptions, an issue flagged by outgoing Chairman Venkaiah Naidu who has frequently expressed unhappiness over the stalling of proceedings.

Rajya Sabha also bid farewell to Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, whose tenure ends on August 10. During the next session, Rajya Sabha proceedings would be chaired by Jagdeep Dhakhar, who will take over on August 11.

Proceedings, notably, were disrupted since the start of the Monsoon session, as opposition parties protested to press for an immediate discussion on issues like price rise and GST and later over the suspension of 23 Rajya Sabha members. Four members of Lok Sabha were also suspended.

Congress members also protested against the ED's action against Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case.

(With agency inputs)
Big changes are expected in Bihar's politics soon. It is reported that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has sought time to meet Governor Fagu Chauhan. This meeting can take place between 12.30 pm and 1 pm. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav can accompany him. At the same time, it is being told by quoting sources that the ministers of the Bharatiya Janata Party quota in the state can resign. Amidst the political turmoil in Bihar, a meeting of 16 ministers of Bharatiya Janata Party quota has started. However, some ministers are yet to reach the meeting. It is being told in the media report that the ministers of the quota of Bharatiya Janata Party have also sought time to meet the governor. All these 16 ministers can go to the Raj Bhavan and resign on Tuesday. Earlier, BJP leaders also met Deputy CM Tarkishore.

The long-running speculation about cabinet expansion in Maharashtra may come to an end on Tuesday. There is news that some ministers may take oath today. Here, in Bihar too, the path of Janata Dal United (JDU) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is showing signs of separation. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has called a meeting of MLAs and MPs today.

Also Read: 'DEAL FINALIZED' between Nitish Kumar-Tejashwi Yadav; BJP WARNS Lalu Prasad Yadav, says 'NOT TRUSTWORTHY'

The alliance between Janata Dal United and Bharatiya Janata Party in Bihar is on the verge of breaking. According to media reports, in the meeting held at the residence of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi, Nitish Kumar's name has been approved as CM. It is reported that the leaders of the Grand Alliance are agreeing on his name.
REET 2022: The Board of Secondary Education Rajasthan, BSER will soon release the REET 2022 answer key on its official website reetbser2022.in. As per the latest media reports, BSER is expected to release the Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teacher, REET 2022 Answer Key tomorrow, August 10. Also according to the past trends, the provisional answer key is released within 10-15 days of the examination. Candidates must notice that the BSER has not issued official notice regarding the release date and time of the REET answer key and an official confirmation is awaited.

Here's how to download REET Answer Key

Visit the REET official website- reetbser2022.in

On the home page click on the "REET Answer Key 2022" link (the link will be activated once the answer key is out)

Entre your log-in ID and password and the REET Answer Key will appear on your screen

Download the pdf and check your responses of REET 2022 referring to the answer key

REET 2022 Cut off

REET 2022 Exam was conducted by BSER Ajmer on July 23 and July 24, 2022 for over 16 lakh candidates. BSER Ajmer will release the final cut off scores for REET 2022 at the time of the result declaration.REET 2022 question booklet has also been released at reetbser2022.in. REET Question Paper Direct Link
New Delhi: Kerala Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his absence in Parliament and said that he speaks more in foreign Parliament than in our own parliament. "Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given more speeches in the foreign Parliament than in the Indian Parliament which is the opposite of Nehru," Tharoor said.

The Congress MP made these remarks during the book launch event where he made a comparison between the working style of India`s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and PM Modi.

He also compared the ideology of both the Prime Ministers regarding democracy, democratic institutions and freedom of expression. Recalling the India-China war in 1962, Congress MP said that then PM Jawaharlal Nehru called a Parliament session and discussed the issues, today it is even not allowed to raise a question related to border issues between India and China.

"In 1962, when India was at war with China, then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru called a Parliament session and discussed it. But today, we are not allowed to raise questions about what is happening in China, especially in the Galwan Valley," Tharoor said.

He further said there is no discussion in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha regarding the India and China issues, despite the death of twenty Indian soldiers who lost their lives.
New Delhi: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday (August 8, 2022) alleged that the bulldozer action against absconding politician Shrikant Tyagi in Noida was "only for show" and asked whether the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government was not aware for all these years that the construction carried out by him was illegal. Her reaction came after the Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh used a bulldozer on Monday morning to remove encroachment outside Tyagi's Noida residence. Tyagi, who claims to be a BJP leader, has been booked by police for allegedly assaulting and abusing a woman co-resident of Grand Omaxe, who had objected to him planting trees in the housing society's common area. Tyagi had claimed that he was well within his rights to do so.

"Did the BJP government not know for so many years that the construction by the Noida BJP leader is illegal? Bulldozer action is only for show. The government is avoiding the answers to these questions," Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said in a tweet in Hindi.

"Who is giving him the courage to indulge in indecent behaviour with a woman and threaten women openly by sending 10-15 goons? Who is it who kept shielding him?," the Congress general secretary asked.

Posting pictures of Tyagi with several BJP leaders, including party chief JP Nadda, Priyanka asked under whose protection did his "hooliganism and illegal business" flourish.

        -?  Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) August 8, 2022

Tyagi had reportedly encroached on a portion of the housing society's common area in front of his flat by constructing temporary structures using pillars and tiles.

6 cops suspended in Shrikant Tyagi case

So far, six police officials have been suspended for alleged laxity in connection with the Shrikant Tyagi case. Additional Director General of Police (law and order) Prashant Kumar said that the UP government and the state's police chief have made it clear that such incidents will not be tolerated.

"The in-charge of the local police station has been suspended. Besides him, a sub-inspector and four constables have also been suspended over laxity in work," Kumar said.

He added that two personal security officers (PSOs) have also been provided to the woman complainant in the case.

The senior officer said police are making all efforts, including usage of human intelligence and technical surveillance, in order to nab Tyagi.

The Noida police said in a statement that they have announced a reward of Rs 25,000 for the arrest of Shrikant Tyagi.

(With agency inputs)
NOIDA: While the ruling BJP has categorically said it has NOTHING to do with Shrikant Tyagi, the man who is absconding at the moment and projects himself as a saffron party leader, media reports have found links of his close connection with an influential Uttar Pradesh politician and a former minister. It has been reported that Tyagi, who is in the real estate business and own several properties in Uttarakhand, Delhi and UP, has a strong connection with Swami Prasad Maurya, a former UP minister and an influential OBC leader.

Maurya has, however, flatly DENIED having any connection whatsoever with Tyagi, while replying to questions about his pictures with him on the latters social media handles. Maurya had admitted that he might have met him several years ago along with other political workers during which he claimed to be a BJP functionary.

He even called for a probe into how he managed to get several gunners and on whose recommendations. But Mauryas political rivals claim him to be the Godfather of Tyagi and accuse him of helping him in evading the law.

Several pictures of Tyagi and top politicians, including BJP chief JP Nadda and Swatantra Dev Singh, have also surfaced on social media and sources claim that he used those images for his personal political gains.

                  ?             



       10-15            ?      ? pic.twitter.com/3tICtFylMw  Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (@priyankagandhi) August 8, 2022

Tyagi claims himself to be a national executive member of the BJPs Kisan Morcha and national co-coordinator of its Yuva Samiti  a claim denied by the ruling party. His unverified Twitter account, which is now locked to the public, describes him as a BJP worker. Tyagis purported accounts on Facebook and Instagram have 81,000 and 52,400 followers respectively.

In his most recent Facebook post, dated 5 August, he had congratulated people on the two-year anniversary of the Bhoomi Pujan at the Ayodhya Ram Temple site.

The last location of this self-claimed BJP leader, who has been accused of abusing and assaulting a woman resident of his Grand Omaxe Housing Society in Noida's Sector 93, has been traced to Rishikesh in Uttarakhand and all efforts are on to arrest him soon.

According to the UP Police sources, Shrikant has fled to Uttarakhand after escaping Noida and his last location was traced between Haridwar and Rishikesh. Though he has not been arrested yet, the Uttarakhand police are cooperating with their UP counterparts in tracing and nabbing him at the earliest.

Noida Police has also declared a reward of Rs 25,000 for the person who gives information on the location of the absconding so-called politician. According to sources, an intense operation to nab the absconding accused is currently underway and multiple teams of the Noida Police are working in coordination to zero in on his location.

Tyagi was on Friday booked under Indian Penal Code section 354 (assault or use of criminal force on any woman) over a spat with a co-resident of the Grand Omaxe Housing Society in Noida's Sector 93. The woman had objected to Tyagi planting some trees in the society's common area, citing violation of rules. He claimed he was within his rights to do so.
NOIDA: The last location of the self-claimed Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Shrikant Tyagi, who has been accused of abusing and assaulting a woman resident of his Grand Omaxe Housing Society in Noida's Sector 93, has been traced to Rishikesh in Uttarakhand and all efforts are on to arrest him soon. According to the UP Police sources, Shrikant has fled to Uttarakhand after escaping Noida and his last location was traced between Haridwar and Rishikesh. Though he has not been arrested yet, the Uttarakhand police are cooperating with their UP counterparts in tracing and nabbing him at the earliest.

As per our sources, last location of BJP's #ShrikantTyagi who escaped from Noida was found in Rishikesh. I instructed SSPs of Dehradun-Haridwar that if Noida Police seek any cooperation in arresting him,Dehradun & Haridwar Police will cooperate: Uttarakhand DGP Ashok Kumar to ANI pic.twitter.com/A2dDsdJuuF  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) August 8, 2022

Meanwhile, UP CM Yogi Adityanath has sought a detailed report from the Home Department on the matter. The CM has directed a detailed investigation into the case as well as stern action against the accused, the CMO said.

#ShrikantTyagi incident | UP CM Yogi Adityanath has sought a report from the Home Dept. CM directed a detailed investigation into the case as well as stern action against the accused. Meanwhile, the inspector-in-charge, one SI & 4 constables have been suspended: CMO



(file pic) pic.twitter.com/gMRSYT4q8A  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) August 8, 2022

Tyagi is believed to have left his original mobile phone at home and is carrying two other phones with him through which he has been contacting his lawyer and associates. Acting tough against the self-claimed BJP 'Neta', the Noida Administration on Monday razed to the ground - the illegally constructed permanent structure - near his apartment in the Noida Grande Omaxe Housing Society.

The Noida Administration`s tough action came just three days after Tyagi indulged in a verbal spat with a woman over the plantation of palm trees. Tyagi had encroached on the common area of the society and constructed a wooden shed that had multiple pillars below it. The demolition exercise was carried out by the Noida Authority in the morning around 9 a.m.

As the bulldozers rolled on Tyagi`s encroached area, the residents of the society expressed happiness and also distributed sweets among themselves. Later in the day, Additional Director General of UP police (law and order) Prashant Kumar, informed that the Uttar Pradesh Police have suspended six police personnel for their laxity in the case.

"The in-charge of the local police station has been suspended. Besides, a sub-inspector and four constables have also been suspended for laxity in work," the senior official said. Apart from the strict action against its own officials, Kumar said for the safety of the woman complainant, two personal security officers (PSOs) have been assigned to her.

Kumar assured that the accused Tyagi, who is still at large, will soon be arrested as multiple teams are currently working on the case. Noida Police has also declared a reward of Rs 25,000 for the person who gives information on the location of the absconding so-called politician.

According to sources, an intense operation to nab the absconding accused is currently underway and multiple teams of the Noida Police are working in coordination to zero in on his location.

Tyagi was on Friday booked under Indian Penal Code section 354 (assault or use of criminal force on any woman) over a spat with a co-resident of the housing society. The woman had objected to Tyagi planting some trees in the society's common area, citing violation of rules. He claimed he was within his rights to do so.

Tyagi, who claimed to be a BJP functionary even as the party denied any links with him, is on the run since Friday night.
New Delhi: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has chimed in on the Bihar political crisis involving JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar and BJP's break-up. He made a sarcastic jibe at the BJP with a reference to the Quit India movement which was launched on Aug 8. He said, similar to how Indians shouted the slogan of 'Angrezo Bharat Chhodo', now Bihar is chanting the slogan, 'BJP Bhagaon'.

Speaking to ANI, Yadav said, "It's a good start. On this day the slogan of 'Angrezo Bharat Chhodo' was given and today the slogan of 'BJP Bhagaon' is coming from Bihar. I think soon political parties and people in different states will stand against BJP."

It's a good start. On this day the slogan of 'Angrezo Bharat Chhodo' was given and today the slogan of 'BJP Bhagaon' is coming from Bihar. I think soon political parties and people in different states will stand against BJP: SP chief Akhilesh Yadav on political situation in Bihar pic.twitter.com/UXhlfWAhDx  ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2022

Also Read: Bihar: Nitish Kumar submits resignation to Governor, breaks alliance with BJP

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today submitted his resignation to Governor Faghu Chauhan, hours after announing a break-up of alliance with Bharatiya Janata Party. The JDU chief, according to sources, will soon stake claim to power along with Lalu Yadav's Rashtriya Janata Dal. In the new set-up, Tejashwi Yadav is likely to become the Deputy Chief Minister.

While announcing break-up of alliance, Nitish Kumar had said: "It's a collective call to leave the NDA"

Also Read: Bihar political crisis: RJD set to return to picture after BJP-Nitish Kumar break-up

Earlier, in the JD(U) meeting today, all MLAs and MPs of the party supported chief minister Kumar`s decision and said that they were with him. They also asserted that they will continue to support Kumar in his decision.

According to sources, many JD(U) legislators told chief minister Kumar in today`s meeting that the alliance with the BJP had weakened them since 2020.

(With ANI inputs)
Patna: Former Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Chirag Paswan on Monday hit out at the JD(U) and dared it to take on the BJP directly instead of accusing him of involvement in a conspiracy to dent Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's popularity. Addressing a press conference in Patna, Paswan claimed the chief minister faced "greater danger from his close aides than from me" even as he alleged that Kumar has insulted former JD(U) national president RCP Singh, and had previously humiliated Sharad Yadav and George Fernandes.

"Never before has one heard of a party accusing its own former national president of corruption. But, this is Nitish Kumar for you," Paswan said.

Paswan, who had in the 2020 assembly polls fielded candidates, many of them BJP rebels, in all seats fought by the JD(U) which saw its tally plummet from over 70 five years ago to under 45, bristled at the term "Chirag model" coined by Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan, the party's current national president.

"If there is a Chirag model, it stands for our call for 'Bihar First Bihari First', our vision for the state which the CM never respected. He should stop blaming me for his party's debacle. The Janata Dal (United) is, indeed, a divided house. RCP has been made to quit. But Nitish Kumar needs to be wary of people like Lalan and Upendra Kushwaha," he alleged.

Paswan mocked the JD(U)'s claim of Kumar having transformed Bihar during the more than a decade and a half he has ruled the state and cited the state's poor rankings in reports of the NITI Aayog.

Chirag Paswan slams Nitish Kumar for skipping NITI Aayog meeting

"And when the NITI Aayog met on Sunday, our CM refused to attend the meeting. It was an opportunity for him to air the state's demands before the prime minister. In the process, Bihar suffers on account of his arrogance," alleged the son of late Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan.

"What problem did Nitish Kumar have in attending the meeting even if he wants to oppose the BJP? Can he be a more vehement opponent than Mamata Bannerjee and Arvind Kejriwal, both of whom were present," Paswan asked.

He said that because of the "tantrums of the Bihar CM", the spotlight is on whether he will continue in chair when it should have been on the floods and the droughts that affect different parts of the state.

'Take on BJP directly': Chirag Paswan attacks Nitish Kumar

The Jamui MP, whose father's party was split by rebellious members of his family last year and who now heads a splinter group called LJP (Ram Vilas), seethed at the JD(U)'s allegation that he had worked as a "mohra" (pawn) in the last assembly polls.

"I act as per the values I have imbibed from my late father whom the chief minister never gave due respect. The JD(U) should stop making allegations against me and if it suspects BJP of having hatched a conspiracy, it should take on the ally directly," he said.

Paswan, who has remained consistent in his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, deplored the JD(U) for appearing sympathetic towards the opposition's allegations of corruption and price rise.

"When they had run short of issues to fight the last assembly polls, they raised the bogey of jungle raj, to dissuade people from voting for the RJD. Now, they seem to be in a mood to join hands," he said.
A buyoyed Tejashwi Yadav today spoke to media after coming to power in Bihar, after joining an alliance with JDU chief Nitish Kumar. A visibly happy Tejashwi Yadav said that "Chacha-Bhatija ek hain (Uncle Nistish-Nephew Tejashwi are together)". He also hailed Nitish Kumar as the most experienced Chief Minister of the country.

He said that Nitish Kumar was acceptable as Chief Minister to all the parties of Bihar - except the Bharatiya Janata Party. He further hailed his father and RJD supremo Lalu Yadav's "legacy", saying that latter was the first in the state to stop the "BJP's Rath".

"Nobody can take the legacy of our ancestors. We thank Nitish Kumar as well as Laluji," Tejashwi Yadav said. "All of us wanted BJP's agenda shouldn't be implemented in Bihar, we all know Laluji stopped 'Rath' of Advaniji, we won't relent at any cost," the RJD working President said while addressing a joint press conference with Nitish Kumar in Patna.

Yadav, who is tipped as the next Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar, on Tuesday accused the BJP of wanting to destroy all regional parties.

"BJP national President JP Nadda said that his party will destroy regional parties in Bihar. Bihar is a birthplace of democracy and the BJP President said that his party will destroy democracy. The people of Bihar cannot tolerate this. Today`s development is an appropriate response to it," he said during a joint press meet with Nitish Kumar, who submitted his resignation as Chief Minister to stake claim to form a new government.

"After the JD-U separated from NDA, BJP is not left alone in the Bihar Vidhan Sabha but also in north India. Except Uttar Pradesh, you can see there are no coalition partners in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and West Bengal," he said.

Tejashwi Yadav said that Nitish Kumar will remain the Chief Minister of Bihar.

"He has done exemplary works in the interest of Bihar and Bihar people. No one would forget those works done by him. We have disputes like every family has. Now, forget those things. Uncle (Nitish Kumar) and the nephew (Tejashwi Yadav) joined hands together and we are committed to work in the interest of common people of Bihar," he said.
Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Police on Tuesday arrested an alleged terrorist with Islamic State links who was planning a terror attack on Independence Day, an official said here. The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of the police arrested Sabauddin Azmi, a member of the Asaduddin Owaisi-led AIMIM, after questioning him at its Lucknow headquarters, Additional Director General of Police (ADG), Law and Order, Prashant Kumar said in a statement.

The suspect, a resident of the Amilo area of Azamgarh district, also goes by the names Dilawar Khan and Bairam Khan, the statement said. A case has been registered against Azmi, who was in direct contact with an ISIS recruiter, under sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Arms Act, it added.

The ATS has seized materials used in making bombs, an illegal weapon, and cartridges from the accused, the statement said. The UP ATS received information that the accused, after being influenced by ISIS ideology, was spreading jihadi ideas and trying to get others to join the terror outfit, it said.

He was brought in for questioning and arrested after evidence of his links with ISIS were found, the statement said. It also said that after connecting with a person identified as Bilal on Facebook, Azmi started a conversation about the action being taken in Kashmir and Bilal provided him the contact of ISIS member Musa, alias Khattab Kashmiri. Azmi got in touch with Musa and then with Abu Bakr al-Shami of the ISIS living in Syria, the statement said.

According to the police, Shami got Azmi in touch with Abu Umar, a resident of Murtaniya who started training him on how to make hand grenades, bombs, and IEDs and working on a plan to establish an Islamic State in India. The statement said Azmi was planning an explosion on Independence Day. Azmi was working on a plan to target members of the RSS, it added.
TS EAMCET 2022: According to local media reports, the Telangana State Engineering, Agriculture, Medical and Pharmacy Common Entrance Test, or TS EAMCET 2022 Results date is anticipated for this week. Results and rank cards for the TS EAMCET will be posted on the official website, eamcet.tsche.ac.in, as soon as they are made public. The date and time of the EAMCET results are updated on Manabadi. The Telangana State Council of Higher Education, or TSCHE, has not yet officially announced the date of the TS EAMCET 2022 Results.

However, according to sources in the local media, Manabadi and the official website will both release the EAMCET results this week. Candidates may take note that TSCHE typically verifies the date and time of the TS EAMCET Results 2022 at least one day in advance. According to local media reports, these Manabadi EAMCET results should be released by August 13, 2022. ALSO READ: REET 2022 answer key releasing SOON

TS EAMCET Results 2022: Result Date and Time

Title Details TS EAMCET Results 2022 Likely this week TS EAMCET Results 2022 date confirmation Likely by August 12, 2022 TS EAMCET Results time to be announced later Official website eamcet.tsche.ac.in, manabadi

The release of the TS EAMCET Results 2022 will cover both the Engineering and the Agriculture & Medical exams. Students from all streams will require their TS EAMCET hall tickets to access their results, even though it is unclear whether these results will be released concurrently. ALSO READ: MPPSC Prelims Result 2022 DECLARED

All of the TS EAMCET 2022 answer keys have already been made available. Due to significant rainfall this time, the EAMCET AM examinations were postponed and eventually held on July 30 and 31, 2022. But the engineering exams took place as planned, from July 18 to July 20, 2022. Please check back frequently for updates on EAMCET results both here and on the official website.






Mumbai: Central India and the west coast of India will continue to receive widespread, heavy rainfall over the next 3-4 days, India Meteorological Department (IMD)said. The weather department has issued red and orange alerts for parts of Maharashtra's Vidarbha region warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall for the next four days. The southwest monsoon became active over Maharashtra again after a gap of two weeks, and brought extremely heavy showers to the south Konkan region on Monday, as IMD said.

The IMD has predicted moderate to heavy rain in Mumbai city and its suburbs. Intense to very intense spells of rain with gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph are very likely to occur at isolated places in the districts of Mumbai, Thane and Palghar. It has also predicted a possibility of very heavy to extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places in the city. It has also issued a Red alert for Palghar, Raigad, Nashik, Pune, Gondia, Gadchiroli and Chandrapur for heavy downpours today. Meanwhile, a high tide hit Marine Drive in Mumbai early this morning.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall is very likely at one or two places in Gondia, Nagpur, Wardha, Washim and Yavatmal districts of Vidarbha with an orange alert till Wednesday, the official said. Heavy to very heavy rainfall along with thunderstorms and lightning may occur at one or two places in Nagpur, Bhandara, Akola, Buldhana, Washim, Amravati, Yavatmal and Wardha districts of Vidarbha in the next four days, he said.

In Odisha, the Met has issued an orange warning of very heavy rain in the districts of Cuttack, Bolangir, Boudh, Balasore, Bhadrak, Dhenkanal, Deogarh, Jharsuguda, Jajpur, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, Mayurbhanj, Sundargarh and Subarnapur. Fisherfolks have been advised not to venture off the coast till Thursday as squally weather with a wind speed of 45-65 kmph is possible over the northwestern Bay of Bengal.

An intense wet spell is likely over Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Vidharbha, Gujarat, Konkan & Goa, ghat areas of Madhya Maharashtra and Telangana during the next couple of days. In Odisha, rain is expected till August 10, while in Konkan and Maharashtra, rainfall is expected till the 11th. Telangana will see heavy rainfall today while Chattisgarh will see showers today and tomorrow.
If youre looking to entertain yourself or your family this week, head over to Chippewa Falls for Pure Water Days. It all starts on Wednesday and goes through Sunday, Aug. 14.

It's a great celebration for our town, and of our town, and I really enjoy that part of it, said Teri Ouimette, the director of Chippewa Falls Main Street. When everything kicks off and starts to happen, people begin to show up, theres excitement in the air.

Highlights this year include performances of "The Music Man" by the Eau Claire Childrens Theater at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, visits to Irvine Park Petting Zoo, The Swampers Curvin thru Irvine and tours of Leinenkugels Leinie Lodge, the Historic Sunny Valley Schoolhouse and the Cook-Rutledge Mansion.

Friday evening enjoy live music at the Riverfront.

Saturday is the busiest day of Pure Water Days and begins with Leinenkugels and the Chippewa Falls YMCA Pure Water Day races. Be there early to watch or participate.

Then checkout the pickleball tournament before heading over to the Pure Water Days Parade with over 50 entries.

This is the 45th annual Pure Water Days Parade. At one time, Chippewa Falls was known for having the purest water in the world. They wanted to celebrate it. That is how it started, Ouimette said.

The parade starts at 1 p.m. Saturday on the corner of North Bridge and Cedar streets (right past the Courthouse) and travels down to the corner of Bridge and Spring streets.

Immediately after the parade, hang around for the Cruise In Car Show before heading down the street to Riverfront Park for RiverFest, which takes place from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.

It's a huge festival. As you can see in our description, we have live music and then there's food with nine food trucks, she said. We have games and we have free stuff. We have a free magic show. We have giant inflatables. We have face paint. You name it, we have it.

Round out the week by stopping by the book sale at the Chippewa Falls public library and stop into Bernard Willi pool to take a dip.

Theres so much to do in our small town. Its action-packed. We want people to come, enjoy and want to return, Ouimette said.
MUMBAI: After initial hiccups and delays, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde will expand his 40-day-old cabinet on Tuesday with over a dozen MLAs being inducted as ministers. According to sources, around half a dozen ministers from the Shinde group and the BJP are slated to take oath on Tuesday in the first phase, and the rest will be inducted later.

Political sources said that nearly half the legislators of Shinde Group-BJP - totalling around 165, including independents and smaller parties - are clamouring for ministerial berths, with a majority of them hoping for Cabinet rank.

Though no names have been confirmed yet, sources claim that senior BJP leaders Sudhir Mungantiwar, Chandrakant Patil, Girish Mahajan are likely to be inducted as new ministers. The other leaders who will likely take oath include Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, Suresh Khade, Atul Moreshwar Save, Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Vijaykumar Gavit and Ravindra Chavan.

From the Shinde faction, Gulab Raghunath Patil, Sada Sarvankar and Deepak Vasant Kesarkar are likely to take oath tomorrow. The move comes ahead of the Monsoon Session of Maharashtra Legislature which is expected to start from Wednesday, though there were some reports of a week`s delay.

The Maharashtra Legislature Secretariat has cancelled all leaves of staffers from August 9-18, directing them to remain present in the office for the monsoon session preparations.

Shinde and Fadnavis took oath on June 30 - a day after the erstwhile Maha Vikas Aghadi regime headed by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray crashed - and since then, they have been running a two-man government for the past 40 days.

Thackeray, his son Aditya Thackeray, party MP Arvind Sawant and other MVA leaders have taken potshots at the proposed cabinet expansion on Tuesday.

Shinde and Fadnavis had a meeting on the issue Monday - a couple of days after they had gone to New Delhi to meet the BJP top leaders - to finalise the thorny cabinet expansion issue, with many senior leaders on both sides staking a claim for ministerial positions.

The Shinde-Fadnavis regime has been under severe attack from the Leader of Opposition Ajit Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party, Congress and Shiv Sena leaders for the delay in forming the cabinet due to which the state administration has been left paralysed, with no help reaching the farmers and people hit by the recent floods in several parts of the state.
New Delhi: Soon-to-be parents Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor had earlier this week jet off to an unknown location for a vacation. It is now being reported that the two are babymooning in Italy and will return to the bay on August 14.



According to a report in Pinkvilla, We have learnt that Ranbir and Alia have taken off to Italy for around a week to spend some time with each other.

It further added, The last few months have been very busy for Ranbir and Alia. Soon after wrapping up the international schedules of Luv Ranjans as yet untitled directorial, RK got busy with the promotions of Karan Malhotras Shamshera. Meanwhile, Alia was shooting for her Hollywood project in the UK, and soon after returning to the city she started promoting Jasmeet K Reens Darlings. According to a source, the couple wanted to spend some quality time with each other, and had planned this holiday for a while. They are expected to return to the bay by August 14.

Earlier, Alia and Ranbir made their first public appearance together after announcing pregnancy to promote Brahamastra song Deva Deva.

Alia has been constantly busy working after announcing her pregnancy. Her latest release, Darlings has won critical acclaim and audiences love. The film also stars Shefali Shah and Vijay Varma and also marks Alias OTT debut and her debut as a producer as well. Darlings is co-produced by Alias Eternal Sunshine and Shah Rukh Khans Red Chillies.

Meanwhile, Ranbirs latest release Shamshera failed to impress the audiences and was declared a flop.
Kolkata: Bengali actor Saibal Bhattacharya tried to end his life on Monday night at his residence at Kasba, West Bengal. As per the Kolkata Police, Saibal injured himself in an inebriated condition. He was immediately rushed to the Chittaranjan Hospital. Reportedly, prior to attempting suicide, Saibal took to his social media handle on Monday night to share a video (which has been retrieved now) where he allegedly blamed his wife and in-laws for his condition.

"I was forced to take it in my own hands. For this my wife, mother-in-law and...," he had reportedly said in the video. News of Saibal`s attempted suicide comes months after Bengali actors Pallavi Dey and Bidisha De Majumdar, and model-actor Manjusha Niyogi allegedly died by suicide. Pallavi Dey was found dead at her house in Kolkata`s Garfa.

According to police, Pallavi (25) was found hanging from a ceiling fan with the help of a bed sheet inside an apartment on the 2nd floor of a multi-storied residential building.
New Delhi: Trust Superstar Ranveer Singh to set the stage ablaze with his performance, words, and antics. And this time around expect nothing less as the actor is all geared up to don the hat of a host at the prestigious 67th Wolf777news Filmfare Awards 2022.

During the launch press meet, the actor expressed his excitement to host the event while remembering his memorable debut night at Filmfare Awards. He revealed how he got anxious and thrilled at the same time, in the presence of Amitabh Bachchan in the audience.

Thats not it. Ranveer also revealed that he won his first Black Lady for Best Actor for Bajirao Mastani, in the presence of his idol and inspiration, Amitabh Bachchan. Ranveer got emotional remembering that night. I saw Mr Amitabh Bachchan sitting in the first row and clapping for me when I won the Best Actor Filmfare Award for Bajirao Mastani (pauses). I dont have words to explain how much that meant to me, he said.

The actor also shared about getting panicked and forgetting his steps in the presence of senior Bachchan during his first ever performance on Filmfare stage along with Anushka Sharma. They were performing on the track Tarkeebein from their debut film, Band Baaja Baaraat. He also received the Filmfare Award for Best Newcomer (Male) in the same year, that is in 2011. In his own words, I will never forget that night. It was my debut so I was anyway tensed as hell. And, the first person I saw was my idol Amitabh Bachchan sitting in the first row and I completely forgot all my steps. It took me time to pick it up from there, I had no control over my senses, he smiled softly.

Filmfare has a special place in Ranveers heart. The actor credits the Black Lady to have given him the validation that every newcomer dreams of, and the encouragement that motivates them to do better. I would have been a different person, and my journey would have been different too if Filmfare did not give me the platform, validation and motivation. Every Filmfare nights since my debut year has been significant for me, he added.
Washington: Days after the news of American media personality Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson`s breakup became public, her ex-husband Kanye West has reacted to it. According to E! News, West shared his reaction to the breakup on his Instagram, in a since-deleted post. He had shared a fake The New York Times front page with a headline that read, "Skete Davidson Dead at Age 28."



In it, West also trolled musician Kid Cudi, who prior to their feud earlier this year, was a close friend and collaborator. The fine print further read, "Kid Cudi meant to play funeral but fearful of bottle throwers."



This is not the first time that the rapper has slammed Davidson, during the course of his nine-month relationship with Kardashian. Shortly after the duo had started dating last November, West voiced his feelings about their romance in numerous deleted posts shared on his Instagram.



Some of these jabs were addressed to Kim while others spoke directly to Pete. Kanye also addressed his displeasure in the form of his music, too. A month after rapping about "beating Pete Davidson`s ass," in February, the musician shared several posts about "Skete," as West referred to him, including a post in which he called Pete a "d--khead," reported E! News.



Although on February 15 he issued an apology for his posts that "came off as harassing Kim," days later, West subsequently followed up with more social media statements about the couple.



A few of West`s since-deleted posts also accused Kim of "not allowing" him to see their four kids: North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm. In totality, the hit musician`s statements led to an instance in mid-March when the "Good Morning" rapper`s Instagram account was suspended for 24 hours, for violating policies on hate speech, bullying and harassment, as per E! News.
New Delhi: Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela, who was recently seen in the Tamil movie The Legend, has been garnering much praise from the audience for her role in the movie. The model turned actress, who is mostly known for her music video appearances and has in the recent past appeared in well-known movies such as' Kaabil ',' Sanam Re ', and' Singh Saab the Great'.

Urvashi portrays the role of a scientist in The Legend and has demonstrated her versatility through her performance in the film. The movie, which stars actor Saravanan Arul in the lead role, has been written by Pattukottai Prabhakar and directed by Jerry and Joseph D.

The Legend is an action-packed thriller and was released in theatres on July 28th, and even though it was not positively received by the critics, the fans have certainly taken notice of the performance of the actress.

Aside from that, the actress has a number of films in the works, including "Black Rose" and "Not Your Baby," among others.
New Delhi: Vijay Sethupathi, an Indian actor, has won the best actor award at the Indo-French International Film Festival for his role in the film 'Maamanithan'.The film received the highest honour by winning the best film category.

The director of the movie, Seenu Ramasamy, took to social media to express his thoughts on it. He wrote, "Congratulations to Vijay Sethupathi for Best Actor and Yuvan Shankar Raja for Best Picture." Thank you, Indo-French International Film Festival."

The movie, which has been travelling around film festivals, was also recently awarded at the prestigious Tokyo Film Awards.

The story follows an auto-rickshaw driver whose world revolves around her daughter. To provide the best education for their daughter, which entails enrolling her in an expensive private school, he strikes a deal with a businessman to assist him in selling his plots to the villagers.

The movie was released after five years of delay on June 24th this year and was written and directed by Seenu Ramasamy. It was produced by Yuvan Shankar Raja under his YSR Productions banner.

Vijay Sethupathi, whose name has now become synonymous with great movies and rich film content, has received universal praise for the film. He was last seen in the superhit movie 'Vikram', starring Kamal Hasan, and has a number of projects in line, such as 'Yaadhum oore Yaavarum kelir', 'Mumbaikar', and 'Merry Christmas', among others.
New Delhi: Garena Free Fire releases redeem codes on everyday basis. The 12-digit redeem code consists of alphabets and numbers. Players can get rewards such as skins for in-game weapons and characters to improve their gaming experience.

Garena Free fire is banned in India. However, if you are located outside India, you can access the reward codes and redeem them. For that you will be required to visit official Garena Free Fire reward site and log in to your Facebook, Google, Twitter IDs to access the Free Fire redemption page. (Also read: iPhone 12 gets massive price cut on Flipkart Big Saving Days Sale, offer details here)

Check out the Garena Free Fire Redeem Codes for August 9, 2022

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4UBYXPTWERES

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L8LNF5WK2YPN

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(Also read: Shocking! Ex-Amazon Web Services engineer hacked data of 10 crore customers)

How to Redeem Garena Free Fire codes for today, August 9, 2022

Step 1: Go to the official Garena Free Fire redemption portal



Step 2: Log in on the portal with either your Facebook, Twitter, Apple, Google, VK, or Huawei ID.



Step 3: Enter a redeem code in the designated text box.



Step 4: Click on the Ok button to get free rewards in your game account.

(Disclaimer: Garena Free fire is banned in India. Hence we advise people to adhere to government rules)
New Delhi: Google services faced outage in the late hours on Monday, according to outage tracker website downdetector.com. The outage had felt across US, UK, Singapore and Australia. At its peak in the US, over 40,000 people complained about the outage which was eventually restored after a few hours. #Googledown was trending briefly on Twitter when people couldn't access Google services.

User reports indicate Google is having problems since 9:12 PM EDT. https://t.co/MK35emuk7T RT if you're also having problems #Googledown  Downdetector (@downdetector) August 9, 2022

(ALSO READ: Samsung to unveil Galaxy Z Fold 4, Flip 4 on August 10: Check out details)

Google confirmed that due to a software update issue, its services faced outage late Monday. Were aware of a software update issue that briefly affected availability of Google Search and Maps, and we apologize for the inconvenience. We worked to quickly address the issue and our services are now back online," Google said in a statement.

(ALSO READ: WhatsApp users alert! THREE BIG privacy features announced in WhatsApp)

We work to quickly address the issue and our services are back now online, it added. Though Googles own app status dashboard didnt reflect any outage on it.

Google services include Gmail, Google Calendar, Google search, Google Meet, Google Docs editor, Google sites, and many more. Alphabet is a parent company of Google. Users also took Twitter to report outages with googles services. They claimed to get error 500 which is a server problem.

Many users took a jibe at the incident by tweeting witty and humorous replies. One user wrote, "How am I supposed to Google Is Google down when Google is down?!? #google".
New Delhi: Samsung is going to unpack latest Galaxy phones, watches, and earbuds at Galaxy Unpacked event on 10 August. Several models such as Galaxy Flip 4, Z Flip 4, Galaxy Watch 5, and Buds 2 Pro earbuds are expected to be showcased this year in the event. One can avail $100 Samsung credit by reserving Galaxy smartphone on the official website of Samsung. Similarly, $200 credit can be avail on the reservation of Galaxy watch and Earbuds.

(ALSO READ: Elon Musk has a secret Instagram account? Know why he uses it)

Samsung has been hosting Unpacked events for the last few years, in which it showcases key smartphones, smart watches, earbuds, galaxy books, and many more gadgets.

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4

In a 30-second teaser, Samsung provides some glimpses of the sleek and smooth design of the latest revamp model of Galaxy Z Flip 4. Battery was the major issue in the old one, so it might be expected to have some level of improvement. Design-wise, the Z Flip 4 feature the same clamp-shell mechanism with the improvement in metallic hinge mechanism. It is expected to see a larger notification display of 2 inches or more rather than previous version 1.9 inches.

(ALSO READ: WhatsApp will give over two days to delete a sent message)

Samsungs Foldable smartphone was a great hit. Samsung shipped almost 10 million pieces worldwide.

Galaxy Z Fold 4

Official trailer hints that there might not have any major changes in the design aspect. However, leaks suggest some tangible upgrades down the line. There is going to be likely a faster processor Snapdragon 8 + Gen 1. The outer Camera will be 10mp. Though battery size is expected at 4400 mAh, which is less in comparison to other versions.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro and Galaxy Watch 5

As per leaks, it is expected to see some big changes in Earbuds 2 pro with superb noise cancellation that can reduce even the loudest ambient noise. Other specs include 360-degree audio, Bluetooth 5.3, and an eight-hour runtime on a single recharge.

This year we can expect two versions of Galaxy watch 5 and pro. The watch 5 pro would be available in one single larger 45 mm size while standard watch 5 would have standard two sizes.
A New Oxford man is dead after a forklift crash in an Amazon warehouse in Carlisle last week, Cumberland County Coroner Charles Hall said.

Alex Carrillo, 22, died Saturday at Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center after the crash, which occurred around 12:15 a.m. Aug. 1, Hall said.

The Coroners Office named multiple traumatic injuries as the cause of Carrillos death and ruled the manner of death as accidental.

Amazon Spokesperson Sam Stephenson said Carrillo was doing routine work operating a powered industrial truck at a Carlisle facility when another truck collided with his. Pennlive reported that the incident occurred at 2 Ames Drive in Carlisle, which is Amazon Fulfillment MDT1.

Carrillo was transported to the hospital with what Stephenson described as serious injuries. Pennlive reported that no other employees were injured in the the crash.

We are deeply saddened, and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time, Stephenson said. We stand ready to support them however they need it.

He said Amazon is conducting an internal investigation and working with officials from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration who are conducting a review.
New Delhi: Fake iPhone 14 cases have appeared online, despite the fact that the phone's release date is still more than a month away.

If rumours are true, the iPhone 14 series will be released in less than a month. Apple enthusiasts are eager to see what the new iPhone flagship will bring to the table. Meanwhile, rumours and leaks are increasing the level of excitement. This time, a new leak reveals that counterfeit iPhone 14 cases have appeared online, imitating official Apple accessories. Interestingly, these iPhone 14 cases are already on the market in China, and they could be a sneak peek at the final design of the iPhone 14. The strange thing is that the fake cases have been distributed despite the fact that the official iPhone 14 launch is still more than a month away. Read More: WHAT? Elon Musk has a secret Instagram account with just 54 followers? Know why he uses it

Majin Bu, a tipster, shared an image of the cases, which look exactly like the official Apple silicone cases depicting the rumoured models - the standard 6.1-inch iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro, while the other two depict the 6.7-inch iPhone 14 Pro Max and the newcomer iPhone 14 Max. Yes, the most recent leak appears to confirm that the new iPhone 14 Max will replace the iPhone 14 mini this year. However, be wary of these iPhone 14 case knockoffs, as genuine Apple silicone cases include MagSafe and are no longer available in a transparent plastic shell. Read More: WhatsApp Users Alert! WhatsApp will give over two days to delete a sent message

The fake Chinese cases indicate that accessory manufacturers are now certain about the final design of the latest iPhone flagship.

This is not the first time that iPhone 14 fake cases have made headlines. Previously, in another leak, tipster "DuanRui" shared one such case for the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max, demonstrating the size of the rear camera module. According to the leaked images, the most highly specced iPhone 14 Pro Max may have a larger camera island than the Pro version, indicating new camera hardware for the 14 Pro Max. This confirms previous rumours that the iPhone 14 Pro Max will include a higher-resolution 48MP camera. The fake Chinese cases indicate that accessory manufacturers are now certain about the final design of the latest iPhone flagship.
New Delhi: For its users, WhatsApp has added numerous new features. The capability to delete unwanted or mistakenly sent messages is one such feature. Currently, users have 68 minutes to delete these messages. This time limit has now been extended to more than two days by the instant messaging service owned by Meta. Rethinking your message? The company asks in a post on Twitter announcing the new time limit. After you hit send, you will now have just over 2 days to delete your chat messages.

Users of WhatsApp will actually have two days and twelve hours to delete their messages. Users have the option of deleting a message only for themselves or for all recipients. Read More: Garena Free Fire redeem codes for today, 9 August: Check website, steps to redeem

One can delete specific messages they have sent to an individual or group chat by selecting the "Delete messages for everyone" option. Messages that you delete for yourself remain on the user's device only. It has no bearing on the chats with your recipients. The messages will continue to appear in your recipients' chat screens. Read More: Good news for Indian smartphone companies! India may ban Chinese phones under Rs 12,000

Rethinking your message? Now youll have a little over 2 days to delete your messages from your chats after you hit send.  WhatsApp (@WhatsApp) August 8, 2022

Heres how to delete messages on WhatsApp:

- Go to the chat that contains the message you want to delete in WhatsApp.

- You can delete a message by tapping and holding it. To delete multiple messages at once, you can choose more messages.

- Choose between selecting Delete for me or Delete for everyone by tapping on Delete here.

2 days, 12 hours August 8, 2022

Before deleting a WhatsApp message, one must be aware of the following:

- You and the recipients must be using the newest version of WhatsApp for messages to be successfully deleted for everyone.

- Prior to deletion or if deletion fails, recipients might still be able to view your message.

- If deleting for everyone wasn't successful, you won't be informed.

- Even after the message is deleted from the WhatsApp chat, recipients using WhatsApp for iOS may still have the media you sent saved to their Photos.

Meanwhile, WhatsApp has begun to roll out status reaction functionality to some iPhone beta users. Users can respond to WhatsApp status updates with one of eight different emojis: Smiling Face with Heart-Eyes, Face with Tears of Joy, Face with Open Mouth, Crying Face, Folded Hands, Clapping Hands, Party Popper, and Hundred Points.
Agra: Apparently in the backdrop of the Shrikant Tyagi controversy in Noidas Grand Oamxe Housing Society, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a big warning to those who work against the Constitution and prestige of the country.

"We will respect those who would respect the laws of India," the Chief Minister said at the concluding session of the three-day training camp of the BJP's youth wing, the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), here.

He said from Ayodhya to Brajbhoomi and from Kushinagar to Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh is the land of sacrifice. "The youths of Uttar Pradesh have always created history and are also creating history," Adityanath said. He asked youths at the training session to follow the ideology of the BJP founders.

Attacking the Opposition, he said, "There are youths associated with opposition parties as well, but what kind of image do they have in the public? They have a culture of anarchy, arson and loot. But youth associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party has the feeling of nationalism, positive attitude and development."

The Chief Minister also asked the youths at the training session, to make new generations aware of the tragedy of the partition. Earlier, he flagged off a 'Har Ghar Tiranga' awareness rally as part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav' at the Circuit House.

After that, he inaugurated a selfie point at the gate of the Circuit House. Adityanath also unveiled the look of the Agra Metro at the Metro Depot in the city.

CM Yogi Adityanath inspected the depot and watched the unveiling of Agra Metro look. After that, he also took part in the plantation drive. He left the depot premises at around 12:45 pm," Panchanan Mishra, Deputy General Manager (DGM) and Public Relations Officer (PRO) at Agra Metro, said.

(With PTI Inputs)
Kolkata: West Bengal's Parliamentary Affairs Minister Sovandeb Chattopadhyay has called for abolishing the post of the governor, which he alleged is often used for settling political scores. Sovandeb Chattopadhyay further suggested that the role, duties and responsibilities of a Governor can be very well handled by the chief justice of the high court.

"There is no need for the post of the governor. The post must be abolished in a country like India where the political situation is very diversified and different parties rule different states. The post of the governor is often used for political purposes. It hinders development work and often leads to controversies," he said.

"I think the responsibility of the governor should be given to the chief justice. He can handle the task impartially. There is no point in spending so much public money for the governor's post," Chattopadhyay added.

The West Bengal minister made these remarks while speaking to reporters during which he event suggested that he will raise the issue in the state assembly when the monsoon session resumes.

It may be noted that the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Government in West Bengal had a love-and-hate relationship with the then Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar during his three-year-long tenure.

Dhankars stint as the governor of West Bengal was marked by regular controversies, which often snowballed into public face-offs with the TMC government in the state. The statement comes in the backdrop of that acrimonious relationship, which ended after he resigned to fight the vice-presidential election.

Jagdeep Dhankar defeated Opposition candidate Margaret Alva in the vice-presidential elections.

(With PTI Inputs)
TAIPEI: China announced new military drills around Taiwan on Monday, eliciting concern from U.S. President Joe Biden, a day after the scheduled end of Beijing`s largest exercises to protest last week`s visit to the island by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. China`s Eastern Theatre Command said it would conduct joint drills focusing on anti-submarine and sea assault operations - confirming the fears of some security analysts and diplomats that Beijing would keep pressure on Taiwan`s defences.

Taiwan`s foreign ministry condemned the move, saying China, which claims the self-governed island as its own, was deliberately creating crises. It demanded Beijing stop its military actions and "pull back from the edge".

"In the face of military intimidation created by China, Taiwan will not be afraid nor back down, and will more firmly defend its sovereignty, national security, and free and democratic way of life," the ministry said in a statement.

Biden, in his first public comments on the issue since Pelosi`s visit, said he was not worried about Taiwan but was concerned about China`s actions in the region.

"I`m concerned they are moving as much as they are," Biden told reporters in Delaware. "But I don`t think they`re going to do anything more than they are."

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre later condemned China`s drills.

"We`ve been condemning them since they started escalating," Jean-Pierre said. "They are provocative, irresponsible and raise the risk of miscalculation. And that`s what he - the president - was referring to."

NANCY PELOSI'S TAIWAN VISIT ANGERS CHINA

Pelosi`s visit infuriated China, which responded with test launches of ballistic missiles over Taipei for the first time, and ditching some lines of dialogue with Washington, including theatre military talks and on climate change.

Counter narcotics cooperation on illicit fentanyl trafficking was among the channels Beijing suspended, a move the head of U.S. drug control policy Rahul Gupta on Monday called "unacceptable".

The duration and precise location of the latest drills is not yet known, but Taiwan has already eased flight restrictions near the six earlier Chinese exercise areas surrounding the island.

Taiwan`s defence ministry said it had detected 39 Chinese air force planes and 13 navy ships in and around the Taiwan Strait on Monday. Twenty-one Chinese air force planes had entered Taiwan`s air defence zone, including fighter jets that crossed the median line in the northern part of the Taiwan Strait, the ministry said.
Karachi: A Hindu family was attacked allegedly by a relative of a Pakistani politician and his guards in Pakistan's Sindh province after the family tried to overtake his vehicle, police said on Monday.

The Inspector General of Sindh Police has ordered an inquiry into Sunday's incident after the incident triggered an uproar on social media as a video of the harassment went viral and people demanded justice for the victims, which included a man, three women and two children, belonging to the minority community.

The alleged attacker named Shamsher Pitafi said to be a cousin of Sindh's Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Abdul Bari Pitafi, and his guards allegedly harassed and misbehaved with the family near the Ghotki area after they tried to cross his vehicle but they were repeatedly denied the right to overtake.

As the family's car overtook Pitafi's car on the highway, one of the children threw an ice cream wrapper outside, which hit the windshield of Pitafi's Vigo car and he was upset that the family did not even stop and sped away," police said.

The family, which lives in Sanghar, was returning after visiting a temple known as Raharki Sahib, and later stopped at a roadside restaurant in Ghotki.

Pitafi followed them there, and he and his men then allegedly misbehaved with the Hindu family and broke the windows of their car. People on the spot intervened to defuse the situation after which Pitafi left the scene.
Cheryl Neidig remembers a time before the bypass when Main Street carried the Carlisle Pike through the center of New Kingstown in Silver Spring Township.

We couldnt walk out our front door without having trucks barreling past, she said. I had small children.

Relocating the highway to bypass the Main Street area in 2009 took away the brunt of the heavy traffic flow, making it possible for local residents to follow through in their effort to transform the village, with a population of about 500 people, back into a close-knit community.

Weve actually got to know our neighbors across the street, Neidig told the Cumberland County commissioners last week. It would be great to have the infrastructure overhauled so that we could walk the main street.

As assistant township manager, she shared her story to lobby the commissioners to issue a letter in support of the township application seeking a $2.7 million state grant to spruce up Main Street, which runs about 1 1/2 miles through New Kingstown.

We have a great partnership with the county, Township Manager Ray Palmer said during a phone interview last week. With anything of this magnitude, we would certainly seek the endorsement of the county.

The commissioners agreed Monday to provide a support letter.

The grant would pay for new sidewalks, curbs and street lighting along with landscaping, storm water drainage upgrades and improved handicap accessibility, Palmer said. The sidewalks in particular have deteriorated over the years, he said.

New Kingstown Visions, a grassroots organization that formed to improve the village, provided the local match of $300,000, Palmer said, adding that the streetscape improvements extend the whole length of Main Street on both sides.

If successful in obtaining the grant, the township could begin preliminary project engineering the winter of 2023, with final design work anticipated by summer 2024, Palmer said. Construction could begin during fall 2024 with completion expected by fall 2025.

The project would improve pedestrian access to Potteiger Park, a seven-acre township facility that includes a playground, walking path and pavilion, Palmer said.

We call it the rebirth of the village, he said. Were excited about it. We have a gem in the township and its New Kingstown.
PITTSBURGH  Managers at two skilled nursing facilities in western Pennsylvania fabricated records of staff time and residents conditions to defraud state and federal agencies, prosecutors alleged Tuesday in announcing criminal charges.

Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center in Beaver and Mount Lebanon Rehabilitation and Wellness Center in Allegheny County were accused of health care fraud, along with five people who managed their operations.

A grand jury indictment alleges nurses were told to clock in for shifts they did not work and timecards were provided to the state, and that assessments of residents conditions were changed to qualify for higher government reimbursement.

Among the defendants are Sam Halper, 39, of Miami, chief executive and partial owner of the homes. He was charged with conspiracy and falsifying health care records. Charges had been filed and made public more than a year ago against Susan Gilbert, 61, of Lawrence, the Mount Lebanon facilitys former administrator.

Messages seeking comment were left for attorneys for Halper and Gilbert. The docket did not list lawyers for the facilities and the three other defendants.
Angel Hope looked at the math test and felt lost. He had just graduated near the top of his high school class, winning scholarships from prestigious colleges. But on this test  a University of Wisconsin exam that measures what new students learned in high school  all he could do was guess.

It was like the disruption of the pandemic was catching up to him all at once.

Nearly a third of Hope's high school career was spent at home, in virtual classes that were hard to follow and easy to brush aside. Some days he skipped school to work extra hours at his job. Some days he played games with his brother and sister. Other days he just stayed in bed.

Algebra got little of his attention, but his teachers kept giving him good grades amid a schoolwide push for leniency.

"It was like school was optional. It wasn't a mandatory thing," said Hope, 18, of Milwaukee. "I feel like I didn't really learn anything."

Across the country, there are countless others like him. Hundreds of thousands of recent graduates are heading to college this fall after spending more than half their high school careers dealing with the upheaval of a pandemic. They endured a jarring transition to online learning, the strains from teacher shortages and profound disruptions to their home lives. And many are believed to be significantly behind academically.

Colleges could see a surge in students unprepared for the demands of college-level work, education experts say. Starting a step behind can raise the risk of dropping out. And that can hurt everything from a person's long-term earnings to the health of the country's workforce.

The extent of the problem became apparent to Allison Wagner as she reviewed applications for All-In Milwaukee, a scholarship program that provides financial aid and college counseling to low-income students, including Hope.

Wagner, the group's executive director, saw startling numbers of students who were granted permission to spend half the school day working part-time jobs their senior year, often at fast food chains or groceries. And she saw more students than ever who didn't take math or science classes their senior year, often as a result of teacher shortages.

"We have so many students who are going on to college academically malnourished," Wagner said. "There is no way they are going to be academically prepared for the rigor of college."

Her group is boosting its tutoring budget and covering tuition for students in the program who take summer classes in math or science. Still, she fears the setbacks will force some students to take more than four years to graduate or, worse, drop out.

"The stakes are tremendously high," she said.

Researchers say it's clear that remote instruction caused learning setbacks, most sharply among Black and Hispanic students. For younger students, there's still hope that America's schools can accelerate the pace of instruction and close learning gaps. But for those who graduated in the last two years, experts fear many will struggle.

In anticipation of higher needs, colleges from New Jersey to California have been expanding "bridge" programs that provide summer classes, often for students from lower incomes or those who are the first in their families to attend college. Programs previously treated as orientation are taking on a harder academic edge, with a focus on math, science and study skills.

In Hanceville, Alabama, Wallace State Community College this year tapped state money to create its first summer bridge program as it braces for an influx of underprepared students. Students could take three weeks of accelerated lessons in math and English in a bid to avoid remedial classes.

The school hoped to bring up to 140 students to campus, but just 10 signed up.

Other states have used federal pandemic relief to help colleges build summer programs. In Kentucky, which gave colleges $3.5 million for the effort this year, officials called it a "moral imperative."

"We need these people to be our future workforce, and we need them to be successful," said Amanda Ellis, a vice president of Kentucky's Council on Postsecondary Education.

After the pandemic hit, Angel Hope worked up to 20 hours a week at his job with a local nonprofit aid group. He felt the time away from school was worth it for the money, especially when nobody was paying attention in the online classes. With his parents away at work, he often felt alone, shunning social media for days and eating ramen noodles for dinner.

"I think isolating myself was a little bit of my coping mechanism," he said. "I was kind of like, 'Keep it in a little bit and you'll get through it eventually.'"

The pandemic led many high schoolers to disengage at a time when they would usually be preparing for college or careers, said Rey Saldana, president and CEO of Communities in Schools, a nonprofit group that places counselors in public schools in 26 states.

His group worked in some districts where hundreds of students simply didn't return after classrooms reopened. In Charlotte, North Carolina, the allure of steady paychecks kept many students away from school even after in-person classes resumed, said Shakaka Perry, a reengagement coordinator for Communities in Schools.

Perry and her colleagues spent last school year bringing students back to school and getting them ready for graduation. But when she thinks about whether they're ready for college, she has doubts: "It's going to be an awakening."

A couple months after struggling through his math placement test, Hope headed to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, for six weeks of intense classes at a summer bridge program. He took a math class that covered the ground he missed in high school, and he's signed up to take calculus in the fall.

He also revived basic study skills that went dormant in high school. He started studying at the library. He got used to the rhythms of school, with assignments every day and tests every other week. He rediscovered what it's like to enjoy school.

Most importantly, he says it changed his mindset: Now he feels like he's there to learn, not just to get by.

"After this, I definitely feel prepared for college," he said. "If I didn't have this, I would be in a very bad place."
Cole Ersel operates the private-chef service and pop-up Milkweed Kitchen.

Wherever hes cooking, the instant gratification of making a good meal and seeing someones reaction keeps Cole Ersel coming back for more.

And Ersel is coming back to Milwaukee with Milkweed Collective, a catering and pop-up food service doing restaurant collaborations and residencies.

His Milwaukee kitchen stints included Hinterland, Riverside and Pabst Theaters, Wolf Peach and Roots (where he also met his wife, Gina Ersel).

His day job is working as an executive chef for Exact Sciences in Madison, while doing events for his own Milkweed Collective throughout southern Wisconsin. For event updates, go to milkweedcowi.com.

Ersel also is participating in the sold-out MKE Chef Collaboration dinner Aug. 21 at the Milwaukee Public Market, 400 N. Water St., with Adam Pawlak, Ramses Alvarez, Joe Muench, Karen Bell, Alex Lyskowicz, Kevin Sloan, Kurt Fogle and Katie Fogle.

Question: What was your path to cooking professionally?

Answer: I did one year in college in Milwaukee after high school and started cooking after that. Im definitely a Food Network kid. Food was always very present in my house. My mom cooked every day, very traditional German food. We had homemade food every night. My parents are both first-generation immigrants.

For me, cooking was just a way to work with my hands, and I liked food. It also gave the ability to work anywhere I wanted, and that was the huge thing for me. I started cooking a year after I got out of high school, first in Chicago, then culinary school in Denver, then Milwaukee (at Roots and Wolf Peach). I left Milwaukee for a few years and was in Indiana as the culinary director for Three Floyds Brewing. Thats where I was when the pandemic hit. That changed things.

Being back here and finally starting my own business and getting a day job put me in this unique position to grow Milkweed Collective organically.

Q: Tell us about the traditional German foods you grew up eating. How has that influenced your own approach to cooking today?

A: I grew up eating sauerbraten, potatoes every night in some form, cutlets, all that. Going to culinary school that is traditional French, European influence  I felt more and more akin, as I kept cooking, going back to this German cooking style. I love it. It is such an interesting cuisine when you think about things that are foundational in German cooking.

Story continues

I feel a connection to my German heritage. I was just in Germany last month for a week with my family.

Q: Tell us about Milkweed Collective. What should people know about this project?

A: Milkweed has been going on without the name for approximately six years. It is a conglomeration of my 15 years of cooking experience. My goal is to create custom collaborative dining experiences. 

Milkweed Collective logo.

Ive done holidays, some weddings and in-house private dinners of 13 to 15 courses for a small number of people, or a more modest five-course (meal). Up to this point, it has been word of mouth and depending on my availability. I have my day job, and my goal with Milkweed is to continue to learn and grow with people. 

Ive been an executive chef, director, a butcher, caterings for bands at theaters. The thing I havent done to this point is sign checks. Im excited for this new opportunity and challenge to take on business roles I havent taken on before.

Q: Youre living in Madison but doing events in the Milwaukee area. What territory are you covering for events with Milkweed Collective?

A: Southern Wisconsin is in play. I can travel. I did a wedding last year in Lake Redstone west of Baraboo. I have a network in Milwaukee. I worked a bunch of places; the Wolf Peach alums are spreading out and have their own places. It is fun to get back into town and hang with old friends and make good food.

Q: What would you tell someone starting out in kitchens today?

A: The thing I love about cooking is it is one of the most rewarding jobs you can have if youre into instant gratification. When youre cooking and you make a mistake, it is easy to bounce back and have a win in the next 30 seconds. You have an opportunity to win and lose hundreds of times a day in a kitchen. I find that rewarding.

Q: Whats the first cookbook you purchased for yourself? Whats one in your collection youd never give up?

A: The early cookbooks were all about "Kitchen Confidential" (by Anthony Bourdain), "Devil in the Kitchen" (Marco Pierre White). Those autobiographies, like Jacques Pepins The Apprentice, I started there.

Now, I am a collector of the Time-Life series from the 1960s. Each one is about 100 pages, and most have a corresponding recipe book. I reference those all the time. Charcuterie from Michael Ruhlman is probably the book that changed my life; it launched me when I was at Hinterland making sausages with Paul Funk (now at Saint Kate Arts Hotel) 

The book Ive been into the past couple years, a book called Luchows German Cookbook from an old German restaurant in Manhattan that closed in the 1970s. I also have this cookbook called Bavarian Cooking  just dumplings mainly, like a hundred styles of knodel; it is from the '70s. My grandma had the same book from the '40s and in German.

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Q: Whats your current ingredient obsession, the thing youre most into right now?

A: Ive always been into foraged food. I think for me, food stuff aside, I am really interested in sustainable practices right now. How can I cook a large-scale wedding or event and have minimal waste and not use plastic wrap? Especially when you travel to Europe and you see how small those garbages are, how do I get there? How do you grow sustainably?

Q: What do you want to be known for?

A: My goal is for Milkweed to be the thing. If people look at it and say Ive heard of that, and it means really great food and intentional sourcing, and it is always a good time. More so than me as a person, I want Milkweed to be known as this thing that delivers excellent food, excellent service, really intentional sourcing, intentional menus.

Q: Whats your go-to indulgence these days?

A: Pernat's meat sticks, from a butcher shop close to my home. They have spots in Ixonia, Johnsons Creek, and one gas station in Milwaukee has them. I have a thing for meat sticks, and Pernat's are the best. Jalapeno cheddar is No. 1.

Then when were traveling, Im always buying obscure things in jars. We came back from Germany with some mustard. I got some Dutch cocoa from Amsterdam. It is always bringing back food for gifts. I always save the containers, too.

Q: Tell us about this MKE Chef Collaboration dinner at the Milwaukee Public Market. Whats the appeal of this particular seven-course dinner?

A: Im really excited about this. Adam (Pawlak) has asked me a couple times and the dates never worked out before. Everyone cooks their own food, and there is a stellar lineup to raise some money. The chefs who are participating I have known and collaborated with in the past, like Kevin Sloan  hes a good friend and I worked at the (Pabst and Riverside) Theater with him. Kurt Fogle was the pastry chef at Carnevor way back. It is a great group cooking. I am excited to get back out there and do an event in Milwaukee.

The charity I picked is JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund), and it is near to me as my wife Gina is a Type 1 diabetic. I am excited to raise money and support JDRF. Theyre constantly working on easing the physical and financial burden that comes with Type 1 diabetes. As someone who witnesses that daily, I want to contribute any way I can to help that cause.

Related: Losses of father, boss inspire Lime Cantina executive chef to help at Liver Alliance fundraiser

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Chancey Bush/The Albuquerque Journal via AP

Muhammad Afzaal Hussains dreams were starting to come true in New Mexico.

The 27-year-old rising political star, whod left Pakistan for America in 2017, was working on getting his green card and preparing to move into a beautiful ranch home surrounded by apple trees. For about a year, Afzaal had worked for the city of Espanolas planning department, which helped arrange this new housing for him, so he wouldnt need to continue commuting from his Albuquerque apartment. The drive was 90 minutes each way.

But on the night of Monday, Aug. 1, Afzaal was gunned down outside his apartment blocks from the University of New Mexico, where he attended graduate school and made friends easily. His older brother, Imtiaz, says hed stepped out to take a phone call before someone ambushed him with bullets.

What is the motive of that person who was shooting? Imtiaz told The Daily Beast in an interview. What has created that type of hatred against him? That is a big question that I want answered.

Its a question Albuquerque police and the FBI are exploring, too, as they investigate the deaths of two other Muslim men whove died in similar ambushstyle attacks in as many weeks, and the unsolved homicide of a fourth Muslim man who was killed last fall.

Police say that on July 26, 41-year-old Aftab Hussein was killed in his apartment complexs parking lot.

And on Aug. 5, Naeem Hussain was fatally shot just before midnighthours after attending a funeral service for Afzaal Hussain and Aftab Hussein. According to a report in the Albuquerque Journal, the body of the 25-year-old Naeem, whod just become a U.S. citizen two weeks before his death, was found in the parking lot of Lutheran Family Services.

A fourth victim, 62-year-old Mohammad Ahmadi, was also killed in November 2021 outside a market and cafe he operated with his brother.

Muhammad Afzaal Hussain. Courtesy Imtiaz Hussain

Authorities believe all four deaths could be connected and that the same person, or persons, could be responsible for this senseless bloodshed. While we wont go into all the specifics of why we think that, theres one strong commonality in all victims: the race and religion, Albuquerque Police Department (APD) Deputy Commander Kyle Hartsock said last week.

Story continues

APD said its too soon to classify these killings as hate crimes, but Imtiaz Hussain believes his brother was targeted for being Muslim. He points to the last names of the other recent victims: Hussein and Hussain. Imtiaz wonders if the gunman perused a phone book looking for certain surnames before shooting them within an 11day window.

From Imtiazs conversations with neighbors and the medical examiner, he believes his brother was shot on a street corner down the block from his apartment, and that he tried to flee his attacker. He had multiple shots on his head, Imtiaz said. He died on the spot. According to Imtiaz, a neighbor saw a gray sedan drive by, though they couldnt name the make and model.

This shows the type of hatred against him that two weapons were usedone handgun, and one rifle. Who has such extreme anger against my brother, who is loved by everyone? Imtiaz asked.

Imtiaz said that when he went to identify his brothers body, the medical examiner told him two weapons were used. (The Office of the Medical Investigator referred questions to APD, which did not return messages from The Daily Beast.)

Still, Imtiaz and other Muslim residents told The Daily Beast that theyve always felt safe and welcome in Albuquerqueor at least, up until recently. Albuquerque is a land of peace, he said. This land of diversity. This place is a welcoming place for all communities, and all people from different colors and nationalities.

Those who have taken the life of my brother, they do not represent the majority. They are 0.01 percent of people in society.

Muhammad Afzaal Hussain, left, 27, with his brother, Muhammad Imtiaz Hussain. Courtesy Imtiaz Hussain

The apparent killing spree has shaken Albuquerque, especially members of the Muslim community, who told The Daily Beast they are staying home indefinitely or at least avoiding going out at night. If they do leave home, theyre looking over their shoulders, keeping aware of their surroundings.

The terror is enough that the Islamic Center of New Mexicothe citys largest mosque and attended by all four victimshas hired armed security guards for its five daily prayers and is fielding phone calls from members anxious about whether its safe to travel. Some of the members have also reported suspicious activity and feared they were being followed or watched.

Ahmad Assed, the president of the Islamic Center of New Mexico, said the recent violence against Muslimsstarting with a convicted arson attempting to burn down his mosque last yearis unprecedented. Before these crimes, he said his community has never been under attack in Albuquerque or anywhere in New Mexico.

It's a welcoming community, everyone gets along here, Assed said. This hate is completely new and not what New Mexico is, from each of its four corners to everywhere in-between.

Now, however, he says his community is living in fear. Even those who weren't friends or family of those killed are scared to attend prayer sessions, go to the grocery store or even be by the windows of their home. We've changed everything about how we live, Assed said. Some have left the state entirely until this is all done. There is this sense of panic, hopelessness and fear that has permeated the entire community.

Aneela Abad, the mosques general secretary, called the shootings shocking and said the victims were killed brutally, without notice or any warning whatsoever. She told The Daily Beast that the center is overwhelmed with calls from community members and university students and staff seeking guidance. At least a couple of them reported they felt like theyre being watched, or they saw some vehicles that they have not seen before just standing outside for a few minutes when they arrived at the premises, and then they left, Abad said.

According to Abad, two Muslim women reported that a motorcylist followed them after they left WalMart. The women told her that the biker waited briefly when they arrived at their apartment complex. He stayed there for about 30 seconds, and then he left, Abad said, adding that this encounter was reported to APD.

On Tuesday night, the center is hosting an interfaith community prayer for the victims, and Abad said that authorities and newly hired security guards will be present.

She said that initially, when Ahmadi was killed in November, the community believed it was an isolated incident. But then, what's more startling is, somebody who's here locally, can just lie low all this time, between November and now. And then now all of a sudden this second, third and fourth shooting occurred, she said.

One friend of Afzaal, a university student who asked to remain anonymous, said they saw a squad of police cars outside of Afzaals apartment the night he was found dead. The person lives a couple blocks from Afzaal and wasnt informed until later that his friend was gone.

Nobodys coming out of their houses, even if they need to get something, the friend told The Daily Beast. When they do, theyre always looking around. Is this person looking at you? Following you? Youre always watching your back to see if youre getting followed. Its very scary.

The student said that their friends have emailed academic supervisors, informing them they dont want to come to the labs to work because most of them walk to school. Youre a sitting duck for whoever wants to harm you, the person said, adding that they wished the university would take more steps to protect international students.

When fear strikes with such a hard blow you start speculating and you start to be afraid of everything you see, they said. And I encourage everyone around me to report anything, even if they think its insignificant. Its better than losing your life.

Imtiaz, whos lived in New Mexico for nine years, felt safe enough to go jogging at night or take strolls with Afzaal to the university library.

In Albuquerque, we feel that this city is ours. You belong to this city. And we wanted to raise our kids here, he said. But when this happened, all my brothers dreams everything was shattered.

Imtiaz added that Afzaal loved living in New Mexico, taking Imtiazs children swimming and camping, and said he wanted to raise a family of his own there someday. He had also worked for U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansburys campaign and had aspirations for higher office himself.

He had a passion to assimilate in this culture, to get into politics and to raise a voice for those who are unheard and to raise a voice for those who are marginalized and poor people of society, Imtiaz said.

I want to request the FBI and all other investigative agencies, please do not let this case end in all the folders and archives of detective offices which are unresolved. We want solutions and we want results in this case. We want to know who wanted to take my brother's life and why.

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Youve probably seen homeless people in the Parkland, or seen evidence of their subsistence living  tents under highway bridges or in wooded areas near parks, people with backpacks and plastic bags walking in early morning or late-night hours, cars that look well lived-in.

More than 750 students in Parkland school districts were listed as homeless between school years 2013-14 and 2019-20, according to numbers reported to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary education, with Farmington and North County districts accounting for more than half.

The Uplift Shelter, a homeless shelter located behind the former Mineral Area Regional Medical Center hospital and run by East Missouri Action Agency (EMAA), is intended to address the many challenges faced by those without a home  and its not just limited to finding permanent shelter.

We are working to give complete, wraparound services to help people, rather than just finding them shelter for this temporary space and time, said EMAA Community Services Program Director Nicolle Hahn. We want to help the whole person, not just the housing problem. We help them find jobs, get drivers licenses if they lost theirs, we help them access healthcare, we provide resources for substance abuse, we have even reconnected people with family members. Were able to provide in-depth case management.

The big task is mostly funded on a skin-tight budget by grants and donations, but the need is great and this Friday, EMAA hopes to raise at least $2,500 through an Uplift Shelter Barbecue. Theyre taking pre-orders until 5 p.m. on Tuesday.

From 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Friday at the Uplift Shelter parking lot, behind the old hospital on Wallace Road, volunteers and EMAA employees will be serving up $10 pork steaks, $7 hamburgers and $5 hot dogs, the plates served with baked beans, chips, a drink and a choice of the senior centers famous cole slaw or potato salad. Large group pre-orders can be made until 5 p.m. on Tuesday by calling 573-431-5191, ext. 1117, messaging EMAAs Facebook page or using a Google form. Delivery is available for orders of five or more. Modern Woodmen has offered to match up to $2,500 raised.

Ursula Warren, the director of the Farmington OAKS Senior Nutrition Center next to the homeless shelter, said the senior center will be making up the sides for the barbecue, and the cole slaw is a creamy one. People love our cole slaw, she said. Im not exaggerating, they really like it.

Other area businesses are getting in on the action. In addition to Modern Woodmen, Prairie Farms David Parmeley will be firing up his smoker, Save-A-Lot is donating meat, Schnucks is donating buns, and many more businesses and volunteers are coming up with ways to make the barbecue a success.

Warren and Hahn said theyve been impressed with the support shown to the shelter, and the relationship between the senior center and the homeless shelter has been a good one.

If we have food left over, we dont waste a scrap of it, Warren said of the senior center. Ill send it over to the homeless shelter. And we have a lot of senior people who come over here for a nutritious meal, and its good to talk to them, make sure theyre getting what they need. It fills my heart to help people, and there are such good people who come here.

Hahn said so many times, shes seen instances where people who never thought theyd be without a home, are suddenly without jobs, or dealing with mounting medical debt, occurrences such as fire, flood or a mental health break, and theyre out on the street.

Its often said, they need to pull themselves up out of their circumstances, but its hard, when youre sliding down into homelessness, to even get traction, she said. And it could just as easily be you or me. Very few people expected theyd find themselves without a home or a job or the means to get either.

According to the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness, Missouri as of January 2020 had an estimated 6,527 people experiencing homelessness on any given day, as reported by Continuums of Care to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Of that, 704 were family households, 453 were veterans, 664 were unaccompanied young adults aged 18-24 and 1,090 were people who experienced chronic homelessness.

EMAA is planning a gala fundraiser for the Uplift Shelter on Oct. 15 at St. Paul Lutheran School in Farmington. Details are still being worked out.
A dedication and ribbon cutting was held in Park Hills Sunday for the new Paula's Playground in Elvins Park.

The playground was built with funds donated by local businesses, organizations, community members, and the friends and family members of the late Paula Lee.

"Paula was a staple in the city for 37 years," said Park Hills-Leadington Chamber Executive Director Tammi Coleman. "Very seldom could you walk into City Hall and not find Paula.

"Her dedication and devotion to our community were rare and passionate, while her love for children was immeasurable. For more than 22 years, Paula taught Sunday School at Esther Baptist Church. For that reason, a playground built to honor her memory couldn't be more significant."

The memorial playground is primarily geared toward younger children aged 2 to 5  the same ages she taught at Sunday School and an age group that held a special place in Lee's heart.

A large group of Lee's family members, friends, and numerous community members, Park Hills city officials, and Park Hills-Leadington Chamber investors attended the ceremony in Elvins Park on Sunday.

The ceremony began with a blessing of the new equipment, given by Esther Baptist Church Senior Pastor Todd Buck. After the prayer, Samantha Vaughn, the Park Hills city collector and spearhead of the playground project, welcomed those in attendance and thanked all who helped to make the vision a reality.

Next, Lee's daughter, Halie, expressed heartfelt words of gratitude on behalf of herself and Lee's family and presented a small gift to Vaughn as a token of the family's appreciation for overseeing the project. Following Halie's words, Dan Elders, Lee's nephew, brought many to tears with an emotional rendition of "Let Them Be Little" by Country Music Artist Billy Dean.

Finally, just before the cutting of the ribbon, Lee's husband, Sid, who was quite visibly touched by the day's event, expressed his gratitude to all attending and those who helped with the project. He closed the dedication by sharing what he said was "a piece of advice from Paula. 'Find a church, keep your family in it, and live a decent life.'"

The event concluded with an official Park Hills-Leadington Chamber-hosted ribbon cutting, followed by lots of excitement as Lee's grandchildren, nieces, nephews, Sunday School students, and various other children finally got to put the freshly completed playground to its intended use  climbing, jumping, swinging, playing and laughing.

Nearly $21,000 was raised to purchase the playground equipment. Fergie's Build & Play generously constructed the equipment at no cost, while the City's Parks & Recreation Department handled landscaping under and around the playground.

Those who contributed to the project are listed on the reverse side of the large Paula's Playground sign, which was constructed just in front of the new equipment.

The playground is now open to the public, and she will forever be a fond memory in the hearts of all who visit the playground, even if they didn't know her in life.
The neo-Nazi torch rally on Aug. 11, 2017 shook Charlottesville and the entire nation, but perhaps no single institution was as affected by the rally as the University of Virginia.

Recognized as one of the top universities in the country, UVa and its loyal alumni and supporters have long guarded its reputation. Honor and good citizenship are strongly held ideals. Supporters and others across the land were stunned by the images of torch-carriers on the Lawn and in front of founder Thomas Jeffersons statue, with many taking it as a personal affront.

But even more than a reputation to protect, UVa has students, professors, workers and others to protect. An extensive report released in November, 2017 said that the university had been slow to respond.

Former federal prosecutor Tim Heaphy, who headed the investigation and later became lead counsel for the university, said the University Police Department ignored information about the rally as well as offers of aid. In turn, that led to a volatile, inflamed atmosphere that continued into the tragic events on Aug. 12.

There was ample notice of the Friday night torch-lit event to university officials, Heaphy said at a news conference announcing the reports result in late November, 2017. They knew perhaps days in advance and perhaps early in the day on Friday, that there would be some sort of event by the white nationalists that were coming to the Unite the Right rally.

Some activists were particularly upset that their warnings went unheeded.

I called it in, the mayors wife called it in and students called it in, said Jalane Schmidt, who is also a professor at UVa. They called us hand-waving leftists for using the F-word: fascist.

UVa has since worked to create a safer and more inclusive future with all of its students and faculty in mind. And while many changes have been made, many people believe there is need to do more.

Limits on Lawn

Teresa Sullivan, who was UVa president at the time, immediately formed a working group to review all of the universitys policies to see where it could have handled the situation differently. The group made several suggestions.

Since that time, UVa updated its open flame policy to make it enforceable by security officials. The Lawn is now a facility, which allows for safety measures such as regulating firearms. It adjusted its time, place and manner restrictions to require university outsiders to apply for permission to hold a speech event at least one week in advance with a two-hour time limit. Events are only during week days between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. and have a 50-person maximum.

Sullivan said she had done everything she could before the rally to thwart any violence. After the Ku Klux Klan had held a rally in Charlottesville in July, 2017, Sullivan consulted with the Southern Poverty Law Center for the best course of action.

After learning that many white supremacist groups are looking to create a media event, she decided she would give the media some good news instead. She organized an extensive teach-in at Alderman Library for Aug. 12, 2017. The family-friendly event was set to include several classes on different topics, exercises and film sessions as an alternative to going downtown, as many people routinely do on a Saturday afternoon.

Part of the goal, she said, was to distance UVa from groups with harmful ideologies that target large populations within the UVa community.

The measures did not work, to Sullivans deep regret.

I wish Heather Heyer were alive today. I wish those state troopers were alive today. Its an eternal grief, Sullivan said. I did my best to try and ameliorate the bad effects of it and, as it turned out, it didnt work. There are still bad things that happen. January 6 was like post-traumatic stress for me. I just couldnt believe it all over again.

Recognizing enslaved laborers

As a part of its goal to create more visibility for minority groups on Grounds, Sullivan approved plans proposed by the Deans Working Group to construct the Memorial to Enslaved Laborers located on Central Grounds.

Administrators and university faculty also have been developing plans and policies to thwart hateful ideologies that target people of color, the LGBTQ+ community and Jewish people.

UVa President Jim Ryan is adamant that his 2030 plan, crafted upon his arrival in 2018, will propel the university into a future worthy of its foundational ideals.

This is a university based on certain ideas. They werent fully realized when they were articulated, but they remain captivating and compelling, Ryan said. The way that you change that is by moving closer to the values and ideals that were expressed, in some cases, two centuries agoexpanding the We in We the People.

Ryans 2030 plan emphasizes strategic goals to increase cultural diversity among both faculty and staff as a part of strengthening its foundation. The SuccessUVA initiative, for example, is the expansion of the universitys financial aid program in an effort to bring more low-to-middle income, minority, first-generation and underrepresented students into the fold.

The initiative includes construction of a new Health and Wellness Center, a new Contemplative Sciences Center and an expanded Multicultural Student Center to support an increasingly diverse student body with a variety of needs.

Public safety changes Associate Vice President of Safety and Security and Chief of Police Tim Longo, who took his post in 2020, had a goal to create more synergy between the UVa, Charlottesville and Albemarle County police departments.As the former Charlottesville Chief of Police, Longo regards this alliance as a positive and necessary change for the future of safety at UVa.

[An alliance is] essentially important when we have largescale events, whether they be spontaneous demonstration by a student body, civic group or an organized demonstration to a ballgame, Longo said. What I think the university has done well is have the foresight to know it makes sense to bring all those assets into one place.

The university increased the presence of ambassadors and doubled up on Lawn security, Longo said. Donning bright yellow shirts, the unarmed ambassadors are UVas first line of defense and report suspicious or dangerous activity to police rather than intervening.

A gentle middle ground between security guards and police officers, the ambassadors create a sense of heightened awareness and protection for students, parents, faculty and visitors alike, Longo said.

Although the group has not met in about a year, the UVa Student Councils University Police Accountability Board facilitates collaboration, communication and transparency between the student body, the University Police Department and other safety and security officials at UVa.

When I first got here, there were actually faculty and staff members within that group as well, Longo said. I always envision that as not just a mechanism for oversight and accountability and asking questions, but also input on safety measures or preventative actions. More than its ever been, its always that balance between individual rights and governmental responsibilities that create safe environments.

Executive vice president and chief operating officer at UVa, J.J. Davis, has a Safety and Security committee that is a cross-section of people representing different positions and experiences on Grounds, including student representatives. The committee meets once a month to discuss issues within the university on, both, broad and specific scales. Even with the policy and committee developments since 2017, students would like to see more intentional action from the university.

Student body president Cecilia Cain, a Black rising fourth year at UVa, sat on the University Police Accountability Board but said she did not find it effective. Cain said she is looking toward a new future of policing on Grounds.

Im hoping to work with UPD this year, Cain said. Removing university police from mental health crises and instead having trained counselors and EMTs as a part of that system is something weve been working on. I think a really good way to reimagine public safety is to divert funding from police and into different types of public safety, such as mental health professionals.

While UVa is making plenty of progress in culturally diversifying the student body and instituting anti-racist hiring practices, students would still like to see more vocal and firm stances on the kinds of speech that are institutionally protected.

The university has come a long way since Aug. 11 and 12, 2017, but there is still much work to be done, many believe. Aligning the experience that forced students into a head-on confrontation with hate and racism with the truth about what happened that weekend is one major step toward smoothing tensions in the UVa community.This is a place with a very deeply rooted, dark history, and without doing the work that we need to confront that and change current conditions, manifestations of that racist history will happen, Cain said.

On Aug. 11, UVa is hosting a moment of silence during the noon chimes, followed by an extended ringing of the University Chapel bells. Anyone under the sound of the bells may participate. Also on Aug. 11, the Karsh Center for Law and Democracy and the UVa Jewish Studies Program is hosting The Legacy of Charlottesville, A Fifth-Anniversary Conversation About Law and Democracy in America on Zoom from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

To register for the Zoom conversation, click here.
The No Unity without Justice exhibit at the University of Virginia marries fury at the White supremacists and neo-Nazis who invaded Charlottesville five years ago with anger at community leaders who chose not to confront them.

The display in the Small Special Collections Library area of the Harrison/Small Building uses memorabilia collected from student, faculty and community activists to tell a sad story from Charlottesvilles so-called summer of hate. That summer included neo-Nazis marching through the UVa campus carrying lit torches and chanting the Jews will not replace us and a Unite the Right show of force by armed militia and other racists and anti-Semites intended to intimidate regular folk that ended in murder and injury.

The No Unity without Justice display shows activists organized against Unite the Right in August 2017, as well as a Ku Klux Klan rally in July 2017, hated the anti-Semites and racists walking the streets. But the artwork, artifacts, photos, journals and personal reflections also make clear that activists felt betrayed by officials whose job was to protect the public from the violence and death that eventually sprang from grotesque displays of bigotry. Those responsible, according to the activists, included members of the Charlottesville City Council, the president of the University of Virginia and the police.

With the fifth anniversary of Unite the Right coming Thursday and Friday, the exhibit offers an understanding of Charlottesvilles inability to heal from a deep, festering culture wound. Residents still struggle to find the common ground they must occupy in order to move past Unite the Right and unite the city.

Two banners hang from the ceiling of the exhibition. They send the messages student activists working with community activists wished had been sent by officials in power. NO DIALOGUE WITH WHITE SUPREMACY, reads one. COMMUNITY DEFENSE AGAINST ALL FASCISM, reads the other. The exhibit offers symbols meant to show how local leaders failed to support activists.

Two displays are particularly jarring. The first is a spent, bent-up tear gas canister said to have been fired by police at counter protesters during the July Klan rally. The second is a video of a UVa student confronting then-university president Teresa Sullivan. The exhibit identifies the student as Caroline Bray. Bray tells Sullivan she was one of the UVa students who confronted the torch-bearing Nazis at the schools iconic Thomas Jefferson statue. Bray wants to know why Sullivan did not know the Nazis were coming when activists knew and gathered.

Dont expect us to read the alt-right websites, Sullivan replies We dont do that. You know youve got some responsibility here. Tell us what you know.

These sorts of blame games continued in post-rally demonstrations at Charlottesville City Council meetings after neo-Nazi James Fields Jr. drove his car into a crowd of counter protesters, killing 32-year-old Heather Heyer and injuring more than a dozen others. Activists disrupted city business. One piece of the exhibit is a photograph of a pair of activists standing in the Charlottesville council chamber holding a banner that says, BLOOD ON YOUR HANDS.

Frustration and finger-pointing is understandable in the wake of tragedy as serious as what occurred Aug. 11 and 12, 2017. But recriminations also get the good people in this evil act picking off each other while the real culprits  the ones who lead this countrys extremist hate groupswalk away free.

Infighting among all of us who oppose neo-Nazism and white supremacy has gone on for five years. The battle seems largely over the means to an end shared by everyone except for a small percentage of bigots. Let us agree that everyone deserves affordable housing, that everyone deserves an equal shot at a job with livable wages, that everyone deserves care when they fall sick, that everyone, not just a single race or gender, deserves to have their interests represented in politics and policy.

Racists and anti-Semites count on their antics to create chaos that lets them divide and conquer the people who, together, could do them in. Around here, that has gone for too long. The exhibit title has it backwards. It should say No Justice without Unity.
A Gates man has been sentenced to more than 30 years in prison for exploiting children over the internet for almost 10 years.

Linn County Circuit Court Judge Brendan Kane sentenced John DiMolfetto, 39, to 35 years and 10 months in prison on Monday, Aug. 8.

The sentence comes after a bench trial where Kane found DiMolfetto guilty of 23 charges involving the online sexual exploitation of children. According to Oregons online court database, the charges include multiple counts of using a child in a display of sexually explicit conduct, luring a minor and first-degree encouraging child sexual abuse.

Police arrested DiMolfetto in May 2020 after a Linn County Sheriffs Office investigation. According to the agency news release, the investigation revealed DiMolfetto had created multiple personas and used various social media and texting accounts to manipulate, deceive and exploit children as young as 7 years old over a span of nearly a decade.

Investigators believe DiMolfetto exploited or attempted to exploit more than 300 children across the country in the six months before his arrest, according to Linn County Sheriff's officials. Some of the victims were known by DiMolfetto, and others were children he met on the internet.

The three-decade prison sentence follows a no-jury trial where DiMolfettos defense attorney, Zachary Stern requested an immediate acquittal. At the time, prosecutor Douglas Prince called Sterns move unethical and inappropriate.

During the trial, which occurred Aug. 1 and Aug. 2, Stern argued that there was insufficient evidence to convict his client. Kane, who was presiding over the trial, said he needed time to review the request for acquittal and would make a decision the next day.

Although Kane found DiMolfetto guilty on 23 charges, some additional charges were either dismissed or DiMolfetto was acquitted of them, according to the court database.
Oregon passed a ballot measure to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin, but Albany city leaders are not sure they want the psychedelic 'shrooms in their town.

The therapeutic fungi were once again a hot topic at the Monday, Aug. 8 City Council meeting, as city leaders have to reach a decision on whether to put a ban or moratorium before voters in the Nov. 8 election.

A final decision may come on Wednesday, Aug. 10.

In 2020, Oregon became the first state in the nation to legalize psilocybin for supervised therapeutic use after 56% of voters approved Ballot Measure 109. In Albany, 52% of voters approved the measure: Wards 1 and 2 voted in favor while Ward 3 did not, according to Deputy City Clerk Gabe Shepard.

When therapeutic psilocybin legalization was first brought before council, members did not know much about it.

In previous discussions, some members expressed concern over legalization of yet another substance, while others seemed to welcome the opportunity it allows for those struggling with mental health concerns.

Councilor Marilyn Smith proposed a two-year moratorium as a compromise between a ban and a full embrace of Measure 109. Such a move would put a two-year hold on therapeutic psilocybin facilities inside city limits.

But not everyone is in favor of a moratorium.

Patrick Winczewski, an Albany native and self-proclaimed mushroom enthusiast, came before the council on Monday to share his enthusiasm. He acknowledged that he is not an expert but had done some research on the guidelines the Oregon Health Authority had set for the therapy.

Psilocybin therapy requires the mandatory presence of a licensed facilitator who has undergone 160 hours of training, Winczewski said. Those seeking the therapy must be 21 years or older, he added.

Winczewskis three minutes were up before he could finish sharing, leaving Councilor Dick Olsen wanting to hear more.

Winczewski hoped his words would make the council reconsider placing a moratorium on the ballot, said in a later interview.

I wanted to give background on what a huge difference psilocybin is from marijuana legalization, he said.

He added that psilocybin would be less accessible than marijuana, given the restrictions, and there's a lot of misinformation circulating about the therapy.

City Attorney Sean Kidd confirmed the information Winczewski shared was correct and that the psychedelic could only be used in the facility. There are restrictions on the placement of the facilities, such as being 1,000 feet from schools, he added.

A moratorium approved by voters would ban the setup of psilocybin therapy for two years, and after that period a permanent ban could be placed before voters on the 2024 ballot, Kidd said.

Councilor Ray Kopczynski, who had been absent from previous meetings, said he was surprised at the past discussions and would prefer to do nothing at all, though he's willing to compromise with a moratorium.

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No action would enact state legislation to approve the therapeutic use of psilocybin come Jan. 2.

Mayor Alex Johnson II said he had hoped psilocybin would be taxed so that the city could see some benefit.

The ordinance for placing a two-year moratorium on the General Election ballot was read first, with a 5 to 1 vote in favor. Olsen was the only no vote. The ordinance was read a second time, failing with two no votes from Kopczynski and Olsen.

Because the vote was not unanimous, a final decision on the matter was pushed to the next meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall, 333 Broadalbin St. SW.

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Vodafone has reportedly entered a joint venture with Papua New Guinea operator Digitec and will begin rolling out services under the red banner later this month (April).

The Post Courier reported the operators will sell mobile phones, plans and SIM cards under the Digitec-Vodafone brand in 25 locations, by April 21.

The minister for ICT Timothy Masiu welcomed the new player stating there are around three million mobile subscribers in the country, leaving ample space for competition to drive lower pricing for consumers.

Masiu said the government has a responsibility to push sustainable competition in the communications sector, and Digitec-Vodafones entry rejuvenates competition.

This follows recent a massive US$100 million tax levy on fellow operator Digicel which threatens to scupper plans by Australian operator Telstra to buy Digicels operations in the Pacific.

Reportedly, Digicel executives including its CEO, have left the country following the revelation of the massive tax bill, although the reason for the departures is still unknown.

Digitec is finally making good on its word to launch services in Papua New Guinea, it originally targeted the end of 2021 for its launch.
Argentinian regulator Enacom has granted authorisation to Google to carry out the installation of its Firmina fibre optic cable in Argentine territorial waters.

This paves the way for the roll-out of what is expected to be one of the worlds longest subsea cables at approximately 13,500 kilometres  a high-capacity fibre optic submarine cable system extending from Myrtle Beach in South Carolina to Las Toninas in the Province of Buenos Aires. There will also be branches to Punta del Este, Uruguay, and Praia Grande, near Sao Paulo, in Brazil.

As Google explains, Firmina will be the longest cable in the world capable of running entirely from a single power source at one end of the cable if its other power source (or sources) becomes temporarily unavailable. This, Google explains, is a resilience boost at a time when reliable connectivity is more important than ever. Achieving this record-breaking, highly resilient design, it adds, is accomplished by supplying the cable with a voltage 20% higher than with previous systems.

With 12 fibre pairs, the cable will carry traffic quickly and securely between North and South America. The cable will offer a final design capacity of 15.03 terabits per second per fibre pair.

The cable is named after Maria Firmina dos Reis (1825-1917), a Brazilian author and abolitionist.

This is the second major announcement involving a Google cable project in recent days. As we reported at the time, Googles Equiano subsea internet cable, which connects South Africa with Portugal, reached South Africa on Monday.
In its continuing drive to boost local industry, it now seems that India is taking aim at low-priced smartphones from China of the sort sold in large quantities in the country by companies like Xiaomi.

A report from news service Bloomberg suggests that India has plans to restrict Chinese smartphone makers from selling devices cheaper than 12,000 rupees (a little over US$150), thus preventing high-volume brands like Realme and Transsion from undercutting local manufacturers.

In a market where many consumers enjoy only modest levels of disposable income even US$150 is a lot of course, but Indias entry-level market is nevertheless vast, as Chinese manufacturers have profitably discovered. They are estimated to take close to 80% of the low-cost smartphone market at the moment. Its a market that contributes close to a third of Indias sales volume, according to recent figures.

As Bloomberg also points out, Chinese manufacturers have had little joy from Chinese consumers lately due to ongoing Covid lockdowns, so India is a key market for them.

This isnt a done deal of course. And its not clear that indigenous companies can offer what consumers want. Its also possible that China might cry foul given recent accusations of tax avoidance and other financial misdemeanours aimed at Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo, among others, not to mention bans on Huawei and ZTE, cooling relations between China and India following a border clash last year, and bans on more than 300 apps.

Despite Indian accusations of unfair competition itss hard to believe the government wants to lose a significant source of Chinese investment, but we still await a formal announcement to see how or whether the low-cost smartphone market is going to be disrupted.
OZARKWhat the commission chairman called the largest pay increase in the history of the county was approved by the Dale County Commission at Tuesdays meeting.

A 15 percent cost of living adjustment (COLA), which will be effective Sept. 7, was unanimously approved by the commission for all full-time and part-time county employees, except those in the General Excluded Service, according to the resolution.

The increase is made possible through funds generated by the Alabama Simplified Sellers Use Tax (SSUT), adopted by state legislature in 2015 and amended in 2019, that requires sellers to participate in a program to collect, report, and remit a flat 8% SSUT on sales made in Alabama by an entity located outside the state.

This is the largest cost of living increase in the history of Dale County, Dale County Commission Chairman Steve McKinnon said following the vote. I think every one of our employees deserves it.

Dale County Sheriff Wally Olson agreed. This is the largest raise that I have ever seen, the longtime sheriff told commissioners as he thanked them on behalf of the employees in his department. I believe wholeheartedly, it doesnt matter what department in this county you look at, you wont find a greater group of employees anywhere.

The next commission meeting is Aug. 30 in the Dale County Government Building. A work session begins at 10 a.m. and is followed immediately by a regular meeting. The meetings are open to the public.
The ideal waste treatment technology is still out of reach for Vietnam due to high humidity and unsorted trash, a company director told a Monday conference.

Vo Tien Dung, vice director of Hanoi-based Halcom Vietnam, said his business has been cooperating with German, Finnish and Japanese companies for the last 23 years, but has yet to find the best technologies to deal with Vietnams waste problems.

It is difficult to treat typically unsorted and highly humid waste in Vietnam. For example, trash in Europe has a humidity level of around 20%, while trash in Vietnam could have a humidity level of 60-70%, he added.

Even the ongoing waste-to-energy plants in Hanoi and Can Tho would need more time so their effectiveness could be evaluated, Dung said. Treating unsorted trash without the same humidity conditions as in other countries would make it hard to meet efficiency and emission standards, he added.

Nguyen Quang Huan, member of the National Assemblys Committee for Science, Technology and the Environment, said he was concerned about waste-to-energy plants. He said such technology still produces pollutants, and is merely cleaning the ground while polluting the air.

As such, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment needs to issue national technical standards for running these plants. However, Huan is still worried that the efficiency of waste-to-energy plants would remain low and lead to closure, meaning trash would have nowhere else to go and would need to be buried.

Nguyen Thuong Hien, deputy head of the Vietnam Environment Administration under the environment ministry, said waste-to-energy technologies have their own pros and cons. Localities should choose a waste treatment scheme thats aligned with the types of trash they have, as well as local socio-economic development situations, he added.

Hien also proposed policies regarding the cost of waste treatment based on the amount of trash produced by families and businesses, and for unsorted trash. Localities also need to prepare the infrastructure and other resources to collect and transport trash, he added.

Vietnam produces around 60,000 tons of solid waste a day, 60% of which are in urban areas, according to Vietnam Environment Administration. By 2025, the percentage of solid waste discharge is expected to increase by 10-16% a year. A total 70% of current trash is buried, around 10% recycled and the rest, processed in other ways.
A man has been banned from flying for nine months starting August 10 for refusing to pay the fine for smoking on a non-smoking flight.

Duong Van Thanh, 23, flew on the VJ134 flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi on June 29. Despite being warned by a flight attendant that it was a non-smoking flight, he continued to smoke, media reports said.

When the plane landed in Hanoi, airport security apprehended Thanh and handed him over to the Northern Airports Authority, which said he has to pay a fine for his offense. The fine amount has not been revealed. According to regulations, those caught smoking on a plane may be fined up to VND5 million ($213.76).

After Thanh failed to pay the fine by the deadline, the authority slapped a nine-month flight ban from August 10, 2022 to May 9, 2023. This means that Thanh cannot use domestic or international carriers for domestic or international flights from Vietnam during the ban period.

Last month, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) requested the compilation of a list of troublemakers who regularly violate regulations so they can be banned from flying. The directive was issued after several incidents of passengers causing havoc at airports.

Recent cases include a passenger putting a mobile phone against a plane window to capture pictures of clouds, which could pose explosion risk, and a woman dancing for a TikTok video at the Phu Quoc Airport tarmac near a running airplane.
Foreign tourists are seen in Hoi An, central Vietnam, on July 24, 2022. Photo by VnExpress/Dac Thanh

Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung proposed expanding visa exemption for tourists from the U.S., Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and India to boost sector recovery.

He also suggested the government consider simplifying immigration procedures to attract foreign tourists as Vietnam reopened after over two years of border closure, he said in a report submitted to the National Assembly Standing Committee on Tuesday.

Hung also proposed extending tax cuts to tourism businesses until the end of 2023 to help them recover after the pandemic crisis.

Though Vietnam reopened tourism and lifted most Covid restrictions, Hung said travel firms and those working in the tourism industry are grappling with difficulties and have not really benefited directly from current policies.

The country welcomed 954,000 foreign arrivals in the first seven months this year, up nine times year-on-year.

This year, Vietnam targets five million foreign tourists, around 30 percent of pre-pandemic levels.

The government has allowed quarantine-free entry and resumed its pre-pandemic visa exemption policy for 24 tourism markets including Western European countries from mid-March with a maximum stay of 15 days.
The Southeast Asian country's archaeological sites -including Koh Ker, a capital of the ancient Khmer empire - suffered widespread looting in civil conflicts between the 1960s and 1990s. Cambodia's government has since sought to repatriate stolen antiquities sold on the international market.

Damian Williams, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, said the items being returned were sold to Western buyers by Douglas Latchford, a Bangkok dealer who created fake documents to conceal that the items had been looted and smuggled.

Williams said the antiquities, including a 10th century sandstone statue depicting the Hindu god of war Skanda riding on a peacock, were voluntarily relinquished by U.S. museums and private collectors after his office filed civil forfeiture claims.

"These statues and artifacts ... are of extraordinary cultural value to the Cambodian people," Williams said at a ceremony in Manhattan announcing the return of the antiquities.

U.S. prosecutors in 2019 charged Latchford, a dual citizen of Thailand and the United States, with wire fraud and smuggling over the alleged looting. He died in Thailand in 2020.

The antiquities will be displayed at the National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh, Cambodia's U.S. ambassador Keo Chhea told Reuters at the ceremony.

In 2014, federal prosecutors returned the Duryodhana, a looted 10th-century sandstone sculpture, to Cambodia after settling with auction house Sotheby's Inc, which had acquired it.

Last year, the Manhattan district attorney's office returned 27 looted antiquities to Cambodia.
ELKO  A Carlin man was arrested for allegedly stabbing another Carlin resident.

The victim told Carlin police he was walking on South Seventh Street when Anthony P. Burnett, 54, pulled up in a vehicle, got out, and stabbed him in the left arm with what was believed to be switchblade knife. A police statement on the July 30 incident said the two men have known each other for several years, and recently have been on bad terms.

The officer observed a clean stab wound to the left shoulder area.

Burnett reportedly fled the scene but was located a short time later by Elko Police Department officers on West Idaho Street near the airport.

He was booked into Elko County Jail on a charge of battery with a deadly weapon, with bail listed at $20,000.

Burrnett has been arrested multiple times in Elko County and was sentenced to prison in October 2019 for grand larceny and possession of stolen credit card, according to Nevada Department of Corrections records.

He was also arrested twice in the summer of 2018 for violating a domestic violence temporary protective order.

Those arrests came after one in November 2017 in which he was booked on charges of domestic battery, resisting an officer and disturbing the peace.

Most recently, Burnett was arrested in September 2019 for felony possession of a controlled substance, possession of a hypodermic device, drug paraphernalia, second-offense driving under the influence, speeding 1-10 mph over limit, failure to obey a traffic control device, failure to possess or surrender drivers license, and failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime.

He pleaded guilty to a single charge of conspiracy to commit possession of a controlled substance and was sentenced to six days in jail by District Judge Mason Simons.
RUPERT  Shippers are running low on fresh Idaho potatoes statewide and it will take careful planning over the next few weeks to make sure fresh spuds remain on grocery store shelves nationwide.

On Monday, Sun Valley Potatoes in Rupert received its first crop of the harvest season. The farmer-owned co-op had been out of potatoes for two weeks.

Its an unusual situation.

This isnt the norm, Sun Valley Potatoes CEO Brian Jones said. We usually run through the year.

The shortage of potatoes is a result of last years lackluster harvest. Despite potato acreage in Idaho jumping to 315,000 acres in 2021, from 300,000 in 2020, unusually hot weather at the wrong time of year dropped yields and crop quality.

We had some really hot weather early and it didnt cool off at night so it kept stress on the plant, said Shawn Boyle, president of the Idaho Grower Shipper Association. In normal summers, temperatures drop enough to reduce the stress on potato plants, to allow them to regroup.

The result was too many misshapen, bruised potatoes that had to be sorted out. They werent good enough to go into the sacks of potatoes, Boyle said.

Until this years crop is harvested and new shipments begin, shippers are under the gun to keep supply chain issues to a minimum, he said, although he predicted that there wont be noticeable disruptions.

Hungry restaurant patrons are still going to find french fries at restaurants, and there will still be potatoes in grocery stores, he said.

Consumers might not notice anything, Boyle said, but internally we will have to work hard to manage the food supply chain and keep people happy.

As far as the 2022 potato crop, potato acreage is down 8%, to about 290,000 acres, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service. But better growing conditions should increase yields, Boyle said.

From test digs that weve done, and better weather in general, we are optimistic that we will have a much better crop, Boyle said.

In a few weeks the potatoes are going to be coming out of the ground, and theyll be beautiful, he said.

Jones, of Sun Valley potatoes, echoed that sentiment. Of the new crop dug in Glenns Ferry that he received Monday, they are good-looking potatoes, he said. They arent huge but have good middles.

Sixty to 70 potatoes were filling a 50-pound box.

Acreage is always going to fluctuate, Boyle said, explaining that 2022 numbers still hover in the normal range. And acreage isnt the best indicator of crop size.

The best indicators are yields and pack-out, he said.

Oakley farmer Randy Hardy said the percentage drop in acreage this year was a bit surprising, although a slight drop was expected. Farmers, facing a low-water year, planted more grain instead of potatoes, which require lots of water to grow, he said.

Harvest might be delayed to allow potatoes to bulk up after cool spring weather slowed growth. At one point the crop looked to be two weeks behind, but recent hot weather might have helped reduce that time period, Hardy said.

The crop looks really good, he said, they just need some size.

Hardy, who has been growing potatoes for 50 years, doesnt predict a huge bumper crop but solid numbers this year.

While he has faced higher fertilizer and fuel costs, along with higher prices for parts, higher prices should compensate for most of it.

Processors contracting with growers expected a drop in acreage and bumped up prices.

They were willing to move prices up because they knew they would have to compete for (the crop), he said.

The new crop will be coming out soon. And farmers are ready for a busy harvest season.

The Idaho Grower Shippers Association has its 94th annual convention Aug. 24-26 in Sun Valley, which will give growers, shippers and processors a chance to connect with each other and learn more about the industry, Boyle said.

But once the convention ends, he said farmers will start harvesting and will work like crazy.
Nevadans are roughly split on whether stricter gun laws would reduce mass shootings, but vast majorities support gun control policies such as universal background checks and raising the legal age for purchasing assault and semi-automatic weapons to 21, according to the new Nevada Independent/OH Predictive Insights poll.

The poll  which surveyed 924 registered voters between July 9 and July 18, with a 3.2 percent margin of error  showed that 49 percent believe tougher gun laws would reduce the number of mass shootings. Forty-two percent disagreed, and another 10 percent were unsure.

Mike Noble, chief research and managing partner of the Arizona-based OHPI, said in an interview that the results reflect several divisions among different groups on the issue, including an urban-rural divide.

Overall, Nevadans are split, but it really depends on which demographic groups youre looking at, Noble said.

Eighty percent of voters also said that they wanted improved enforcement of existing gun laws.

Numbers in different parts of the state  the population centers of Clark County and Washoe County, and the remaining rural counties  indicated voters were divided.

Nevada gun poll An online opt-in panel survey conducted July 8-19, 2022 by OH Predictive Insights for The Nevada Independent included 924 Nevada registered vo

Younger voters were more likely to say that tougher gun laws would prevent mass shootings  61 percent of 18 to 34-year-olds said yes to the question, while 55 percent of 55 to 64-year-olds and 47 percent of those 65 and older said no.

As expected, the question split along party lines, with 77 percent of Democrats agreeing and 69 percent of Republicans disagreeing with the question of stricter gun laws effect on mass shootings. Independents were divided, with 42 percent agreeing and 45 percent disagreeing.

However, when asked about certain specific gun restriction policies, Nevadans were much more supportive. For example, 83 percent said they support policies to require criminal background checks for all gun purchases, including those at gun shows and private sales. Federal law only requires a background check whenever a person attempts to buy a gun from a licensed gun dealer, but some states, including Nevada, have implemented broader state background check laws.

Voters also approved raising the age to purchase an assault rifle and semi-automatic weapons from 18 to 21, with 75 percent supporting the idea.

The poll showed that 69 percent of Nevadans support red flag laws. Also known as an extreme risk protection order law, the policy allows authorities to temporarily remove guns from someone who poses a danger to themselves or others. Nevada lawmakers adopted a red flag law in 2019, but the policy has been used sparingly since going into effect in January 2020. Only 17 percent of poll respondents said they were opposed.

Other gun control policies were widely popular among voters  70 percent back mental health checks on all gun buyers, and 70 percent support raising the age to 21 to buy all guns.

Though less overwhelmingly popular, solid majorities of poll respondents said they supported increasing the number of armed guards at schools and public venues (65 percent in favor) and requiring criminal background checks for the purchase of ammunition (64 percent). Sixty percent support creating a 30-day waiting period for gun purchases.

Majorities of poll respondents also favored banning high-capacity magazines (60 percent to 27 percent), and banning assault rifles and semi-automatic weapons (54 percent to 34 percent).

Noble noted that policies with less overwhelming support, such as the high-capacity magazine ban, reveal a sharp partisan divide, with 80 percent of Democrats in favor but only 41 percent of Republicans in accord.

Additionally, only 46 percent of voters agreed with allowing teachers and school officials to carry guns on school grounds, and just 45 percent backed encouraging more citizens to carry weapons to defend against attackers. Those had a comparatively high level of unsure votes  25 percent and 23 percent, respectively.

Noble attributed the fact that some specific gun restrictions are popular with voters but have stalled in Congress to the success of gun lobbying groups such as the National Rifle Association.

The question is, well, Why are a lot of these things not in place? The gun lobby has been pretty strong, he said. But when you look at voter sentiments, a lot of these seem like pretty common sense, no-brainer items.

The poll comes after an increasing number of mass shootings, including in Uvalde, Texas in May, when an 18-year-old, who had legally purchased an assault rifle, killed 19 elementary school children and two teachers.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2020, firearm-related injuries were among the five leading causes of death for people ages 1-44 in the United States. Firearm homicide rates are highest among teens and young adults (15-34 years of age) and among African-American, American Indian or Alaska Native and Latino populations.

In response to the Uvalde shooting, the Democrat-run House passed a package of bills last month that included a provision to raise the age to purchase assault rifles. The House also recently approved a ban on assault weapons, but with the prospect of the GOP minority filibustering the legislation, the Senate will not likely consider the measure.

The upper chamber is split 50 to 50 between the parties and 60 votes are needed to overcome a filibuster.

Instead, the Senate negotiated and passed a bipartisan bill, signed into law by President Joe Biden, that included funds to help states implement red flag laws.

The bill won the support of 15 Senate Republicans, including Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). But only 14 House Republicans voted for the package. Rep. Mark Amodei (R-NV), the congressional delegations sole GOP member, opposed the measure and cited a concern that the legislation could result in law-abiding citizens having their constitutional right to bear arms taken away.
I think Pete Ernaut misses the point in his recent endorsement of Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto for re-election this fall. Sure, shes a nice person and willing to come out and listen to our concerns from time to time, BUT, back in Washington, she votes in lockstep with the Democrat Party and that party has gone crazy.

The Democrat Party wants boys to compete against our girls in sports. They want boys to be able to use girls bathrooms. They encourage our children to change their genders. They want critical race theory taught in our schools. They cant define what a woman is. They think men can give birth to babies. They believe in live-birth abortions. They want to take away our guns. They shut down our gas pipelines. They are the party that nominated Joe Biden for president and Kamala Harris for vice president. They are crazy!

Running against Cortez Masto this fall is former Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt, a conservative Republican who proved himself a great friend to Nevada during his time in office. He is the grandson of the legendary Paul Laxalt and he has my full support in his race for the U.S. Senate.

Liberty Watch publisher George Harris pointed out in his February publication that Cortez Masto had earned 0% ratings from both the National Taxpayers Union that rates lawmakers on their votes impacting taxes, spending and debt; and Heritage Action that considers votes on legislation that would limit the size and scope of government. He added the nonprofit Council for Citizens Against Government Waste rated Cortez Masto Hostile to Taxpayers.

Harris concluded, Obviously, Cortez Masto doesnt represent the moderate, commonsense values of our state. Nothing proves that point better than the fact that, in 2021, she voted with socialist Bernie Sanders 94% of the time and with progressive extremist Chuck Schumer 98% of the time.

Lastly, replacing Cortez Masto with Adam Laxalt can shift control of the Senate over to Republicans who can then stop the craziness we could expect in the last two years of the Biden Administration.

Its an easy choice this fall  a proven conservative in Adam Laxalt or a nice woman that votes with the party of crazies. Please join me in voting for Adam Laxalt for U.S. Senate.
The People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command on Tuesday continued to carry out combat exercises around Taiwan, the command said in a statement.

The drills, which were conducted in the air and waters around the island, were mainly conducted to test the capabilities of the PLA's joint blockade and joint support operations.

The command has been organizing drills surrounding Taiwan since Aug 2, after the arrival of United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on the island.
The index of industrial production increase by 11.2% over the same period last year. (Photo: vneconomy.vn)

The rise was thanks to a further reopening of the economy in the wake of COVID-19 disruptions, said the Vietnam News Agency.

Output growth accelerated for most components, including manufacturing (12.8% against 9.9% in June); electricity and gas supply (8.7% against 5.5% in June); and waste treatment (9.2% against 6.3% in June).

In contrast, mining output fell 1.5%, reversing from a 5.1% growth in June.

Vietnam National University - Hanoi ranked 758th in the latest Webometrics Ranking of World Universities

The Vietnam National University - Hanoi (VNU) ranked 758th in the latest Webometrics Ranking of World Universities, jumping 186 places from the previous list released in January.

According to the Vietnam News Agency, with the new position, the VNU stood 183rd in Asia and 14th in Southeast Asia, according to the rankings issued by the Cybermetrics Lab of the Spanish National Research Council on August 7.

The headquarters of the Vietnam National University - Hanoi (Photo: vnu.edu.vn)

The Webometrics list, published twice a year, assesses the digitalisation capacity and impact of higher education institutions academic resources basing on the volume of the website content, the visibility and impact of their website publications, the openness of academic resources on Google Scholar, and the number of citations they received on the Scopus database.

To the VNU, the jump from the 1316th position in the January rankings to the 656th in terms of visibility indicates the broaden scope of influence of its online resources and website on not only the academic community of Vietnam and the world but also the society.

In 2022, this school has continually recorded higher places in global and Asia university rankings, including among the top 1,000 in the QS World University Rankings and the top 301 - 350 in the Times Higher Education (THE)s Asia University Rankings.

THE also released THE Impact Rankings, which assess universities performance of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In the latest list, the VNU was also present together with some other educational institutions of Vietnam, including the Hanoi University of Science and Technology, Ton Duc Thang University, Phenikaa University, Duy Tan University, FPT University, and National Economics University.

Vietnam emerges as leading global tourist destination

The India Times recently published an article highlighting the countrys emergence from a quiet nation to one of the world's best tourist destinations.

The article outlines how celebrity chef and author Anthony Bourdain made a significant contribution to elevating the countrys image to the wider world, according to Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

People are put on Earth for various purposes. I was put on Earth to do this: Eat noodles right here, said Bourdain during his visit to Vietnam.

Hoan Kiem Lake (Photo: hanoimoi.com.vn)

The globally-renowned chef always felt a special connection with the nation, dating back to the first time that he showcased Vietnam back in his 2002's show A Cooks Tour in Episode 3 of Season 1. Little did the world know that the door opened by Bourdain would come as a blessing in disguise for the country. Indeed, its tranquil seaside would see a transformation so great that it would attract generations of travelers, all of whom are curious to learn more about local culture.

Approximately 20 years ago, Vietnam was not hugely popular among international travelers. In general, people were still travelling in traditional ways, including ready-made tours, according to the article.

The article added that in the countrys case, food played a major role in reviving the tourism industry. Major credit must go to celebrity chef and author Bourdain as the world took inspiration from his adventures and grew curious about the various taste and sights of the country. This led to Vietnam's first batch of travelers who also kick started the first generation of adventure tourists, leading to backpacking to become a popular activity.

The early 2000s were largely slow due to social and political unrest throughout the region, although local businesses got the idea that travelers from the West will come and will want to explore. In order to make it more accessible and welcoming, cities like Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi started to open up backpacker-friendly options specifically for these small tribes of international guests. Other small towns and cities quickly followed suit and started making their locations more traveler-friendly.

In addition, access by air was made easier with the opening of airports in places like Da Nang and Nha Trang, with these picture perfect locales now being made accessible to the world and boasting beautiful locations and interesting food for visitors.

While Western adventure travelers are typically on a mission to take as many off-the-beaten paths as possible, Asian travelers have not followed the changing trend. The curiosity to check out what attracted the Western travelers in the first place has been a big thing among tourists from Asian middle-class societies with disposable income.

Cau Pagoda (Photo: daidoanket.vn)

This has led to mass tourism, with places such as Hue being popular for its history, Quang Binh province for spelunking, Sa Pa for its iconic paddy fields, and Nha Trang for picturesque beaches. Other popular places include Mekong Delta for its iconic waterways and Phu Quoc for its underwater adventure, leading Vietnam to quickly rise as a hot destination everybody wanted to experience.

Bourdains love for pho immediately comes to mind in relation to food tourism. In the last decade, Vietnamese cuisine has become a hit globally. Thanks to various food shows on television, YouTube, and other social media platforms, rice paper rolls (goi cuon), pho, and banh mi have become popular choices of food while eating out.

One of the greatest Vietnamese attractions is therefore the street food scene. It is affordable, easily available, and has plenty of variety, with street food in Vietnam possessing its own unique charm. Experiencing a destinations unique culture through its food is be a terrific activity to do, the article explained.

It concludes that in a span of less than two decades, going from an underdog destination to a tourism hotspot, Vietnam has developed a long way in a relatively short period of time. It now Draws the interests of photographers, foodies, culture and history buffs, and thrill seekers, meaning it is safe to say that Vietnam is here to stay as a popular tourist destination.

Local painters participate in Intl Visual Artists exhibition in Thailand

Three acclaimed Vietnamese painters have put their works on display at an Art Exhibition of International Visual Artists of Thailand which is being held in the Thai capital of Bangkok.

Artworks by Ly Khac Nhu, Ly Chan Van, and Viet Kim Quyen are currently on show at the Ratchadamnoen Contemporary Art Center alongside works produced by nearly 200 artists from Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, China, the Republic of Korea, Canada, and Brunei.

Three Vietnamese painters participate in International Visual Artists exhibition in Thailand

(Photo: sggp.org.vn)

Quyen says that the exhibition greatly inspires viewers as it highlights collection and preservation efforts for works of art, whilst also promoting them as aspects of cultural heritage.

Over recent years, the Art Exhibition of International Visual Artists of Thailand has grown to be considered as an artistic and cultural exchange that is hugely popular among artists from Asian countries and over the world.

The selected works have been put on display with new creative imprints from the different artistic skills of the painters. The event is scheduled to last until August 28./.
Vietnams garment-textile exports are expected to earn 45.7 billion USD in 2022 (Photo: hanoimoi.com.vn)

The General Department of Vietnam Customs reported that as of mid-July, garment-textile was one of the four sectors posting the highest export revenue, with a record of over 20 billion USD, up nearly 20% year-on-year.

Garment-textile was also among the six groups whose export value increased by over 1 billion USD, said the Vietnam News Agency.

Vietnamese garment-textile products were shipped to 55 countries and territories worldwide, including 17 markets with a turnover of more than 100 million USD each.

The US, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Canada were among major buyers of the Vietnamese products.

Earlier, the Vietnam Textile & Apparel Association said textile-garment producers target to earn up to 21 billion USD from exports in the second half of this year, raising total shipments of the year to around 43 billion USD.

Phu Quoc among world's 25 best islands: US magazine

Phu Quoc, Vietnam's largest island off the southern province of Kien Giang, has been selected one of 25 best islands in the world by readers of US magazine Travel+Leisure.

According to the magazine, readers' enthusiasm for the island stems from "its white-sand beaches and delectable food."

The island is renowned for its production of fish sauce, an indispensable Vietnamese condiment, and peppercorns, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

At a beach on Phu Quoc Island (Photo: thanhnien.vn)

Other attractions include its coral reefs and dense tropical forest, the magazine wrote.

For this years World Best Awards survey, Travel Leisure asked its readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe to choose the worlds best islands based on activities, sights, natural attractions, beaches, food and friendliness.

Ischia Island in Italy topped the list, followed by the Maldives and Bali in Indonesia.

Phu Quoc, Vietnam's largest island, has gained popularity after the government allowed 30-day visa free entry in 2014.

Largest breast mill bank inaugurated in Vietnam

A breast milk bank, the largest of its kind in Vietnam, was inaugurated at Hung Vuong Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City on August 6.

The facility with a total investment capital of VND6 billion is able to pasteurize 62 litres of milk per day, reported Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

The largest breast mill bank was inaugurated at Hung Vuong Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City on August 6 (Photo: bvhungvuong.vn)

This is the second breast milk bank in the South and one of four breast milk banks operating in Vietnam. The inauguration of the new facility is expected to increase chances of survival for premature, low birth weight and pathological babies.

According to Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Nguyen Truong Son, at present, the infant mortality rate remains high in Vietnam, accounting for 70-80% of all deaths in children under 1 year old.

He cited studies showing that among the solutions to reduce infant mortality, breast milk is the most important. Breast milk not only helps children grow up quickly and comprehensively, but also strengthens the immune system, especially in the period when the childs immune system is not yet complete.

Passive antibodies passed from mother to baby in breast milk will help the baby fight many infectious diseases in the living environment.

Every year, the Neonatal Department of Hung Vuong Hospital takes care of thousands of premature, low birth weight and pathological babies mostly based on formula milk as there is no donated or stored breast milk. The establishment of the breast milk bank is highly appreciated providing milk to these unfortunate children. So far 17 mothers have donated 235 litres of raw milk to the bank.

We hope that many other mothers will know about the breast milk bank and volunteer to donate milk to help save the lives of other unfortunate children, said Dr. Hoang Thi Diem Tuyet, director of Hung Vuong Hospital.

Vietnam records US$4.7 billion trade surplus with UK over 12 months

Vietnam enjoyed a trade surplus of 3.9 billion pounds (over US$4.7 billion) in the four quarters to the end of March 2022, up nearly 22% over the same period to 2021, reported the UKs Department for International Trade.

According to the Vietnam News Agency, the data released early this week showed total trade in goods and services (exports plus imports) between the UK and Vietnam was 5.7 billion pounds, an increase of 15% year-on-year.

Vietnam enjoyed a trade surplus of over US$4.7 billion in the four quarters (Photo: baodautu.vn)

During the reviewed period, total UK exports to Vietnam amounted to 905 million pounds (an increase of 0.2%), of which export of goods accounted for 68.3% at 618 million pounds, up 3% year-on-year, while services were 287 million pounds, making up 31.7% and down 5.3% year-on-year.

Major products shipped from the UK to Vietnam included pulp and waste paper (74.4 million pounds), medicinal and pharmaceutical products (71.3 million pounds), beverage (42.2 million pounds), metal ore and scrap (35.2 million pounds) and scientific instruments (31.6 million pounds).

On the other side, Vietnams shipments to the UK increased 18.3% to 4.8 billion pounds, 97.2% of which were goods, with only 2.8% services.

The top five goods imported to the UK from Vietnam were telecoms & sound equipment (29.7%), clothing (381.8 million pounds), iron & steel (336.8 million pounds), footwear (334.8 million pounds) and furniture (329.9 million pounds).

Experts forecast the bilateral free trade agreement between the UK and Vietnam, which officially took effect on May 1, 2021, with a wide-range tariff elimination, has helped boost trade between the two markets. However, room for expansion is still large as Vietnam was the UKs 36th largest trading partner, accounting for just 0.4% of total UK trade.

Updated data on trade in goods showed the UKs exports of goods to Vietnam decreased by 4.3% in the 12 months to May 2022 compared to the same period of the previous year. Meanwhile, UK imports of goods from Vietnam increased by 15.5% over the same period.

CNN reporter loves Vietnamese fish sauce

Chris Dwyer, a reporter for CNN, says he has loved Vietnamese fish sauce made in Phu Quoc (South Vietnam), though it was not easy to taste at the beginning.

In his story, he described the special fish sauce as an indispensable national ingredient that ranks among condiments such as olive oil or soya sauce, said Radio the Voice of Vietnam.

According to the CNN reporter, visitors don't need to look far to sample a taste of Vietnamese fish sauce as it is present in pho, (the nations traditional noodle soup), spring rolls, com tam, banh xeo, com thit nuong, as well as dozens of other ubiquitous dishes.

A fish sauce barrel house on Phu Quoc Island (Photo: VNA)

In order to learn more about Vietnamese fish sauce, Dwyer paid a visit to Phung Hung on Phu Quoc Island, a 45-minute flight southwest of Ho Chi Minh City.

The reporter found the Phung Hung fish sauce workshop has been in business since 1950 and is very proud of its reputation as one of the leading producers on an island which many Vietnamese feel is responsible for making the finest fish sauce available in the country.

Dwyer learned that the crucial ingredients in fish sauce are ca com (black anchovies), and smaller white anchovies. Together, they comprise roughly 95% of the fish used in the dish. Larger fish such as sardines and herring make up the rest.

The CNN reporter shared that fish sauce barrels are used as hand-crafted items from wood of boi loi, a tree from Phu Quoc National Park.

He revealed that part of the secret in the sauce is Phu Quoc's unique combination of environmental factors, including the right humidity and heat which slowly lets the mixture be reduced to leave between three and four thousand litres of fish sauce per barrel.

Dwyer quoted Spanish chef Bruno Anon, who leads the culinary programme at Regent Resort Phu Quoc, as saying that fish sauce is the national soul and essence of the Vietnamese people, which sets the country's cuisine apart from the rest of the world.

In every Vietnamese meal, a small bowl takes pride of place, a sauce that ties together everything on the table, Bruno Anon added.

The CNN reporter said that several acclaimed fine dining restaurants such as Toyo in Manila in the Philippines are also huge fans of fish sauce, locally known as patis.

He was also reminded of 2016 when globally renowned chef Anthony Bourdain took then-United States President Obama for a humble bowl of bun cha, rice vermicelli with grilled pork.

The key flavor profile was, as Bourdain explained, nuoc mam - the ubiquitous Vietnamese fermented fish sauce, he concluded./.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son (Photo: VNA)

Following is the full text of the article:

On August 8, 1967, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established, initiating the process of extensive integration for the sake of peace, stability, and development in Southeast Asia and the region.

From a group of Southeast Asian nations divided by wars, after 55 years of growth, ASEAN is today one of the most important, reputable, and successful regional organisations in the world, a common home for 650 million people in 10 Southeast Asian countries with diverse culture, the fifth largest economic community in the world, and an important and reliable partner of many countries in the world, and an organisation that holds a central role in the many important dialogue, cooperation and connectivity processes in the region.

The journey to build an ASEAN Community with shared vision and identity

The creation of ASEAN 55 years ago has reflected the aspiration of many countries in the region for peace, stability, friendship, cooperation, and development. Overcoming the vicissitudes of time and adapting to the changes in the region and the world at large, ASEAN has been growing consistently and perfecting itself on multiple fronts.

In 1995, Vietnams accession to ASEAN laid the foundation for the common home connecting 10 Southeast Asian countries.

In 1997, for the first time ever, ASEAN adopted the ASEAN Vision 2020 on a community cohesive in shared identity, satisfying the aspirations of the member states for a Southeast Asian region where rivers and mountains no longer divide but unite us in friendship and cooperation. In particular, the formation of the ASEAN Community in 2015 with three pillars of security-political, economic, and socio-cultural has raised the process of cooperation and regional linkage to a new height for the sake of peace, cooperation, and mutual prosperity.

The ASEAN Way, based on the basic principles of international law, solidarity, consensus, non-interference in internal affairs, is always preserved, fostered, promoted, and has built value and identity for ASEAN.

It is the ASEAN Way that has helped ASEAN and its member countries overcome the turbulent periods of the region and the world. At the same time, when successfully overcoming challenges and difficulties, ASEAN becomes more mature, the spirit of solidarity and unity is enhanced, and ASEANs methods and identity shine ever more brightly. As a result, ASEAN has affirmed its prestige, position, and central role, expanding substantive and deeper relations with its partners, and winning extensive and practical international support to promote the development and integration of ASEAN.

To date, ASEAN has a dialogue partnership with 11 important countries and international organisations (China, USA, Russia, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, EU). Many stances and regulations of ASEAN such as the ASEAN Charter, the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC), etc. are welcomed and embraced by the international community.

Being faithful to its purpose and operating principles, ASEAN has played an important role in promoting dialogue, cooperation, and confidence-building among countries inside and outside the region in order to maintain peace, stability, development, and cooperation in the region.

On the basis of upholding international law, settling disputes and disagreements via peaceful means in accordance with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, ASEAN has been making important contributions to the maintenance of a peaceful and stable environment in the South China Sea, which has been recognised and supported by the international community.

Promoting integration and economic linkage has always been a central content in the ASEAN integration process for the past 55 years. To date, intra-regional trade accounts for about 25% of ASEANs total trade. ASEAN GDP in 2021 reached 3,360 billion USD, an increase of more than 30% compared to 2015 when the ASEAN Community was established. In addition, ASEAN is also at the centre of an open economic space with a network of eight free trade agreements (FTAs) including the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and seven FTAs with important partners, of which the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is meant to create a free trade area that accounts for 30% of the worlds population and 32% of global GDP.

After 55 years of construction and development, ASEAN can be proud of being a model of successful regional integration. The achievements have been a solid foundation for ASEAN to strive to fulfil the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and build the ASEAN Community Vision Post-2025 to further strengthen the unity, resilience, and responsiveness of the ASEAN Community. Unity is for making consensus, promoting community awareness, shared responsibility for the sake of long-term mutual benefits of the ASEAN Community, for the maintenance of peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region. Resilience is for maintaining the fortitude, promoting internal potentials and strengths of each ASEAN member state and of the whole ASEAN Community.

Responsiveness is for maintaining self-confidence, spirit of dynamism and innovation to steadily rise against the complex changes in the region and in the world.

Vietnam for a united, strong, and developed ASEAN

ASEAN holds an important position in Vietnams foreign policy and international integration efforts. Joining ASEAN in 1995 was a strategic decision of our Party and State, contributing to setting a new stage of international integration and development of the country, consolidating a peaceful, stable and competitive environment, capitalising on external resources for the construction and defence of the Fatherland as well as to enhance the prestige and position of the country.

Consistent with the foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation and development, multilateralisation, diversification, and respect for ASEANs principles, methods and identity, Vietnam has seriously fulfilled membership commitments and obligations, made many important contributions to the strengthening of the ASEAN solidarity and realisation of the idea of ASEAN consisting of 10 member countries, building the ASEAN Community, and realising the ASEAN Vision 2025.

The times when Vietnam took over the ASEAN Chairmanship, the association faced a lot of challenges. In particular, as the Chair of ASEAN 2020, in the face of unprecedented difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam has persisted in ASEANs principles, fully embodying the spirit of cohesion and responsiveness, and helping steer the ASEAN ship through turbulence, maintain the momentum of regional cooperation and connectivity, and orient the development of the ASEAN Community in the new period.

Implementing the foreign policy set in the 13th National Party Congress, Vietnam will continue to work with ASEAN countries to further promote the identity and central role of ASEAN, build a united and strong ASEAN Community, bring essential benefits to all ASEAN members as well as partners inside and outside the region.

With the motto of proactive, active, sincere, reliable and responsible, Vietnam strives to do its best together with ASEAN to continue writing successful chapters on building the ASEAN Community, making important contributions to peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and in the world./.
The ASEAN flag is hoisted at a ceremony in Hanoi (Photo: VNA)

The ceremony was chaired by Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son, and attended by Ambassadors of ASEAN countries and ASEAN partners, along with local officials.

The annual ASEAN flag hoisting ceremony is held in each ASEAN member state to honour their common values and express the determination to promote solidarity and cooperation.

This years event is of greater significance since the region is working towards the establishment of the ASEAN Community at the end of 2015 and Vietnam is marking its 20th year of ASEAN membership.

The ASEAN flags colours  blue, red, white and yellow  represent the main colours of the member countries flags. It symbolises unity and support for the blocs principles and mission, and represents a stable, peaceful, united and dynamic ASEAN.

Addressing the ceremony, Minister Son said the foundation of ASEAN 55 years ago created the precedence for regional countries to realise their aspiration for a peaceful, stable region with sustainable and inclusive development.

ASEAN countries can be proud of what they have achieved so far towards their noble goal, meeting the aspiration of nearly 700 million people in the region, he said.

To successfully realise the target and the ASEAN Vision, the minister said the ASEAN Community should intensify efforts to consolidate the foundation for fast, sustainable and comprehensive post-pandemic recovery.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) comprises Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam./.
Roman Borodachev in bed waiting for treatment at Khanh Hoa Provincial General Hospital, on August 6 (Photo: TDO)

Roman Borodachev has worked as a freelance graphic designer in Nha Trang City (Khanh Hoa Province) since 2017. On June 12, he slipped and fell on the bathroom floor, breaking his hip.

After receiving a medical check-up, the doctors at Khanh Hoa Provincial General Hospital asked him to have surgery soon. However, because there was no money, he went home to practice in the hope that the wound would heal quickly.

However, as the day went on, his muscles began to atrophy. He had to be hospitalized immediately.

His doctor said that he required surgery to replace the femoral neck.

His friend, Anna Los, wrote a letter asking the Russian Consulate and the Department of Foreign Affairs of Khanh Hoa Province for help. On June 4, Anna also posted his situation on social networks to ask for more benefactors to support.

Anna was very surprised to see that as soon as Roman's situation was posted on social networks, dozens of strangers transferred money, giving him enough money for surgery. By August 6, the donation amount had reached more than VND30 million.

Roman said that he felt very touched and surprised because he received many greetings and much help from Vietnamese people./.
Ambassador Nguyen Tat Thanh speaking at the congress (Photo: VNA)

The event was attended by Vietnamese Ambassador to Australia Nguyen Tat Thanh and some 40 outstanding Vietnamese students across Australia. It was also attended by representatives from the Central Committees of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union and Vietnam Students' Association and leaders of student associations from Vietnam.

Speaking at the congress, Vice President of SVAU Huynh Tan Dat said during the past tenure, the association has organized various activities to promote innovation and entrepreneurship among students, including a series of talks with experts in innovation for students and an annual global contest for innovative start-ups Hack4 Growth Australia held by its Vietnam Australia Innovation Network (NIC AU).

He added that the NIC AU has also organised Innovation Expo 2020, and two virtual seminars on smart agriculture and high-quality agriculture which brought together speakers from Vietnam, the US, France and Australia to seek solutions for the sustainable development of agriculture in Vietnam.

In addition, the SVAU has organized charitable events to raise funds for disadvantaged Vietnamese people and those hurt by natural disasters and COVID-19.

Currently, about 30,000 Vietnamese students are studying in Australia./.
Consul General in Ekaterinburg Dinh Van Dong (right) and Omsk City Mayor Sergey Shelest

(Photo: thoidai.com.vn)

At the meeting, Omsk City Mayor Sergey Shelest said that Omsk city is ready to support the initiatives of Vietnamese businesses, including in the fields of confectionery production and business, export of tea, coffee and rice. Enterprises in Omsk can connect with Vietnamese enterprises in the fields of mechanical engineering, petrochemicals, road construction and medicine. The city of Omsk is also interested in cooperation in the fields of science and culture, including the exchange of students and art groups.

This year is an important year as it marks the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Russia (July 27, 2012-July 27, 2022). Currently, Vietnam is one of the important partners of our country," Mr. Sergey Shelest emphasized.

Consul General Dinh Van Dong thanked the authorities and people of Omsk for the warm welcome. Omsk is a beautiful and hospitable city.

According to Mr. Dong, the establishment of a partnership between Omsk and Vietnamese cities can help strengthen cooperation between the two countries. He also expressed special interest in the exchange and training of Vietnamese students at Omsk universities./.
The delegates attend the A ground-breaking ceremony of a Vietnam welcome gate (Photo: VNA)

This activity aims to celebrate the 46th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam-Thailand diplomatic relations (1976-2022).

Speaking at the event, Consul General Chu Duc Dung said that that the construction of the welcome gate is evidence for the traditional ties, solidarity and friendship between Vietnam and Thailand.

The Consul General emphasized that Thai people of Vietnamese origin in Thailand in general and Nong Khai province in particular continue to serve as a bridge to cultivate friendship between the peoples of Vietnam and Thailand.

According to Governor of Nong Khai Monsit Paisanthanawat, overseas Vietnamese in the province have made contributions to the local socio-economic development. The construction of the Vietnam welcome gate is a symbol of the two countries' friendship, he added.

Representatives of the Overseas Vietnamese Association in Thailand said before returning to Vietnam in 1960, overseas Vietnamese in Nong Khai province had made donations in cash and in kind to build a road in the locality in order to thank the King and Thai authorities who supported them in difficult times./.
Policy credit has created widespread effects in poverty reduction, job creation and improvement of the material and spiritual life of ethnic minorities in the locality.

Near-poor households in Quang Long commune (Ha Lang district) build stables and develop livestock from policy capital. (Photo: nhandan.com.vn)

Recently, the family of Mr. Hoang Van Trong, Ms. Luc Thi Thu, from Bo Chia hamlet, Quang Long commune, Ha Lang district, were honored to receive a certificate of merit from the General Director of the Vietnam Bank for Social Policies for using the concessional credit capital for the right purposes and effectively.

He said: Without policy credit, my family would not have a good life like today. From borrowing 7 million VND in 2003 to invest in buying buffaloes and cows, then turning the capital, continuing to accumulate, until 2019, Mr. Trong borrowed another 25 million VND under the housing loan program to build a spacious house. In addition, his family also borrowed 65 million VND under the loan program for near-poor households to invest in building a barn system, raising five breeding buffaloes and 10 pigs.

Visiting a good business model in Ky Lac hamlet, Quang Long commune, we were quite surprised to see a valuable car next to the floor. The owner is a veteran, good farmer, Nong Duc Hanh, pointing to the car, said that he bought the car worth of more than 700 million VND from the profit of selling tangerines and dragon fruit.

Currently, Mr. Hanh owns an orchard with 600 mandarin trees and 100 dragon fruit trees. The familys income from selling fruit is about 150 million VND a year. In the early 2000s, Mr. Hanhs family was a poor household. After absorbing the policy and being determined to escape poverty, he borrowed preferential credit to buy buffaloes and cows and raise goats. Gradually, his family switched to growing fruit trees that brought sustainable economic benefits.

Secretary of the Ha Lang district Party Committee Vu Khac Quang affirmed that social policy credit is the fulcrum and motivation to help the socio-economic development in the poor district of Ha Lang prosper. Especially in border areas, local disadvantaged areas in which investment resources for production development are limited, social policy credits have been like midwives helping people have investment capital and develop.

Director of the Transaction Office of Ha Lang District Bank for Social Policies Dam Thi Thu shared that the unit promoted synergy in the implementation of social policy credits for non-profit to bring capital to the right subjects. For example, in the border commune of Thi Hoa, after meeting the new-style rural standard, the loan source for poor and near-poor households in the area decreased. The Transaction Office flexibly allocated and increased the capital to solve jobs, helping people in border areas stabilize preferential loans, thereby, investing and developing production.

Director of the Vietnam Bank for Social Policies in Cao Bang Nguyen Thi Phuong said that so far, the total outstanding balance of 19 loan programs is nearly 3,230 billion VND, of which, bad debts equal to 0.1% of total outstanding loans. Thousands of households have escaped poverty and become well-off, being a clear demonstration of the effectiveness of preferential credit policy programs. In the coming time, the Branch will strengthen coordination with mass organizations and social organizations to implement measures to use preferential credit capital for the right purposes and effectively./.
The World Bank Group on Monday, August 8, announced an additional $4.5 billion in funding for Ukraine under the PEACE project, which aims to help the government of Ukraine meet urgent needs caused by the ongoing war.

"The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development [USAID] in coordination with the U.S. Department of the Treasury, is providing an additional $4.5 billion in direct budgetary support to the Government of Ukraine to help alleviate the acute budget deficit caused by Putin's brutal war of aggression," USAID said in a press release.

According to it, the government of Ukraine will receive funding in tranches, starting with a payment of $3 billion in August.

The World Bank indicates that additional funding will help maintain the government's ability to perform core functions at the national and regional levels.

In particular, the funds will help the government of Ukraine cover social benefits, medical services and pensions that are necessary for the well-being of the country's citizens and mitigating the social and economic consequences of the war.

"Ukraine needs continued government services, including health, education, and social protection to prevent further deterioration in living conditions and poverty," David Malpass, World Bank Group President, said.

"We are grateful to the United States and our partners for their ongoing support through our rapid support mechanisms and for the generous grant that will greatly support the Ukrainian people," he said.

According to the bank, the additional financing adds to the $1.49 billion Investment Project Financing (IPF), approved in June 2022. To date, the World Bank has mobilized nearly $13 billion in emergency financing, including commitments and pledges from donors, to support the continuation of essential government services and to help blunt the widespread human and economic impacts of the war. More than $6.3 billion of this financing has been disbursed as of the end of July 2022.
The Turkish vessel Polarnet, which left the port of Chornomorsk (Odesa region) on August 5 with 12,000 tonnes of corn from Kernel agro-industrial holding, arrived at the Turkish port of Derince on August 8.

"Kernel completed one of the most important missions - the first ship with Ukrainian grain arrived at its destination. The shipment was carried out as part of the initiative for the safe transportation of grain and food from Ukrainian ports," the group of companies wrote on Facebook on Tuesday.

It is specified that the ship was loaded with corn at the Transbulkterminal grain terminal in Chornomorsk, which is part of Kernel. In the 2020/2021 marketing year (MY, July-June), the terminal handled 7.6 million tonnes of grain crops, which is 22% more than in MY 2019/2020, and became the largest in the country in terms of transshipment of agricultural products.

The holding emphasized that Ukrainian agricultural exporters remain key suppliers of foreign exchange earnings to Ukraine, which is an important positive factor for the economy of the warring country.

"If we manage to maintain the trend and increase exports, farmers will not have to reduce the area under crops, and Ukraine won't feel a deficit in state budget revenues," Kernel summed up.

Before the war, Kernel ranked first in the world in the production of sunflower oil (about 7% of world production) and its export (about 12%), and was also the largest producer and seller of bottled sunflower oil in Ukraine. In addition, the company was engaged in the cultivation of other agricultural products and their sale.

Its largest co-owner through Namsen Ltd. is Ukrainian businessman Andriy Verevsky with a share of 41.3%.
A Russian missile that hit an infrastructure facility near the city of Uman may have caused many deaths during the Hasidic pilgrimage in the month of Tishrei. This was stated by the Ambassador of Ukraine to the State of Israel Yevhen Korniychuk, according to the Embassy's Facebook page.

A russian missile was shot near Uman, causing damage to civilian infrastructure. If such attacks by Russia would happen in the month of Tishrei, they could cause, God forbid, many fatalities among the Jews visiting Uman from around the world, - said the head of the diplomatic mission.

Earlier, official Kyiv stated that due to russian aggression against Ukraine and the impossibility of guaranteeing the safety of civilians, the Hasidic pilgrimage to Uman on the occasion of Rosh Hashanah will not take place this year. Last year, about 50,000 people came to the city for the celebration.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on the world to speed up action in response to Russia's nuclear blackmail.

"We are actively informing the world about Russian nuclear blackmail  about the shelling and mining of Zaporizhia nuclear power plant. There are already responses from the international community. But we need to speed up the response," he said in a traditional video message on Monday evening.

Russia, Zelensky said, would not heed words and worries. "We need new sanctions against the terrorist state and the entire Russian nuclear industry for creating the danger of a nuclear catastrophe. The world should not forget about Chornobyl and remember that Zaporizhia NPP is the largest in Europe. The Chornobyl disaster is an explosion in one reactor, Zaporizhia NPP is six power units," he stressed.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that one way to prevent Russia from annexing Ukrainian territory is for Western countries to announce that they would ban all Russian citizens from entering in return.

In an interview with The Washington Post published on Monday, Zelensky said that "the most important sanctions are to close the borders  because the Russians are taking away someone else's land." He said Russians should "live in their own world until they change their philosophy."

"Whichever kind of Russian  make them go to Russia," he said.

"They'll understand then," he said. "They'll say, 'This [war] has nothing to do with us. The whole population can't be held responsible, can it?' It can. The population picked this government and they're not fighting it, not arguing with it, not shouting at it."

"Don't you want this isolation?" Zelensky added, speaking as if he were addressing Russians directly. "You're telling the whole world that it must live by your rules. Then go and live there. This is the only way to influence Putin."
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky thanked US President Joe Biden for allocating another, unprecedented $1 billion security assistance package to Ukraine.

"I'm grateful to the US people and Joe Biden personally for allocating another unprecedented security aid package of $1 billion to Ukraine. Every dollar of such aid is a step towards defeating the aggressor. We'll always remember leadership support of the United States at a time when it's most needed!" he said on Twitter.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said that confirmations of countries for participation in the Crimea Platform summit on August 23 are received daily, the ministry's press service reports.

"It's too early to reveal all the cards, we are in the process. But I can say that new confirmations from countries that they will join the summit are coming every day," the ministry's press service quoted Kuleba as saying.

The Minister noted that the most important thing is the fact that the Crimea Platform summit is being held, even online and despite the war.

"The signal that we send to the world by holding this summit is very simple: under any circumstances, Ukraine will never forget any of its occupied territories, in particular Crimea," he stressed.
New US $1 bln defense aid package for Ukraine shows high level of trust between presidents, their teams  Kuleba

The provision of a new $1 billion US defense assistance package to Ukraine indicates a high level of trust between the presidents of the two countries and their teams, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said.

"The allocation of a new package [of assistance to Ukraine] indicates that personally between President Zelensky and President Biden, as well as between the teams of Biden and Zelensky, a high level of trust and interaction has developed," the press service of the Foreign Ministry quotes Kuleba as saying at the national telethon on Monday.

According to him, this is "the best counterargument for those who claim that there is supposedly no trust between Ukraine and the United States."

Kuleba believes that this also destroys the assertion of Russian propaganda that the partners allegedly do not know where the weapons provided to Ukraine are going and urged "keep a cool mind and win the information war."

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister thanked US President Joe Biden for providing Ukraine with new defense weapons, of which 18 security aid packages had already been provided since August 2021.

"The new package includes not only Javelin systems that are well-known to all Ukrainians, but also missiles for HIMARS and NASAMS, which are no less well-known to all, and other weapons. All this is essential not only for our defense, but also for offensive operations," he said.

US President Joseph Biden reportedly authorized an additional aid package of up to $1 billion to meet Ukraine's critical security and defense needs.
The Association of Families of Azovstal Defenders has called on President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the UN to prevent the fake tribunal of Azov Regiment fighters from being held, the press service of the Association of Families of Azovstal Defenders has reported.

"The Association of Families of Azovstal Defenders appeals to President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, to all international organizations, in particular, to the guarantors of the safety of Azovstal defenders  the International Committee of the Red Cross and the UN, with a request to intervene in this theater of absurd, to condemn and prevent fake tribunals, threatening the fighters of the Azov regiment," the Association said on the Telegram channel.

Relatives of the defenders of Azovstal reminded that Ukrainian servicemen cannot be condemned by other states, especially "pseudo-republics" which are not recognized by anyone. Such a "tribunal" will not be in force in the legal field of Ukraine.

According to the Geneva Convention of 1949, any attacks on the human dignity of prisoners of war are prohibited. Consequently, all these demonstration shows with courts and tribunals are completely contrary to generally recognized international laws on the treatment of prisoners of war.
The European Commission (EC) has commented on the scandalous report by Amnesty International  everything that happened and is happening in Ukraine is the direct consequences of the inhuman war unleashed by Russia against Ukraine.

European Commission spokesman Peter Stano has said at a briefing in Brussels on Tuesday, commenting at the request of journalists on the corresponding Amnesty International report, which was severely criticized not only in Ukraine, but also in the international arena, that everything that has been done in Ukraine is the direct consequences of the illegal, unjustified, unprovoked aggression of Russia, which kills the civilian population, destroys the Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, targeting pensioners, women, children, hospitals, and railway stations. Russia is attacking civilian targets, and the Ukrainian army is fighting this aggression and trying to protect the civilian population, he has said.

The EC representative has stated that in such situations, when the Ukrainian army is defending the country against Russian aggression, of course, there must be defense military equipment, also in areas that are subject to attacks and in which the civilian population also lives. This is another example of how inhuman and illegal Russian aggression against Ukrainians is, Stano stressed.

At the same time, he has not comment on the substance of the report, nor on the reaction it provoked.
The Armed Forces of Ukraine have received the first batch of 50 Kirpi armored personnel carriers manufactured in Turkey, another 150 vehicles are expected to be delivered, said Yuriy Mysiahin, MP of the Servant of the People faction, deputy head of the parliamentary Committee on National Security, Defense and Intelligence.

"Turkish BMC Kirpi armored personnel carriers are already in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Two Marine brigades are already using fifty vehicles. We are waiting for another hundred and fifty! A machine gun that can be operated manually and rotated 360 degrees, a fire extinguishing system, good mine protection for cars, B6 armor, 12 fighters plus crew," Mysiahin wrote on Telegram on Tuesday, posting a video of the delivered equipment.

The same information is confirmed on the page of the Operational Group of troops Kakhovka on Facebook. "New Turkish BMC Kirpi armored personnel carriers have been handed over to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Another delivery of 150 units is expected soon," the message says.
The "Korean" scenario of the end of the war in Ukraine is impossible, according to adviser to the head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine Mykhailo Podoliak.

Answering the question of the BBC-Ukraine about the possible preservation of Ukrainian statehood on a territory smaller than Ukraine today, he said: "In this case, it is an endless war. This is the scenario of Minsk-2, 3, 4, 5, endless war. Because Russia is not North Korea. The Russian Federation in relation to Ukraine will not stop at the 38th parallel. It will go further, constantly further  this is the scenario of an endless war."

"That is, we signed (an agreement on the end of the war), they reequipped their army, mobilized, heated up revanchist sentiments even more with propaganda - and went on to take some more territory," he believes.

According to Podoliak, Russia will adapt to the sanctions, gradually break the consolidation of the European Union, get formal or informal allies there, as a result of which a new war will begin in much worse conditions.

"Why? But because they will tell us: you didn't finish everything then. You were so powerful then, we helped you, but you didn't go to the end, to the right ending. And today we can no longer help you, we cannot say to our societies in Germany, France, Italy, Spain every year: let's once again Ukraine will fight with Russia, once again we will give them several hundred billion euros, once again we will accept refugees from Ukraine. We cannot live in this format. Russia will not stop. I say again: this is not North Korea," he said.
Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal calls on the world to influence Russia so that its military immediately leave the territory of Zaporizhia nuclear power plant, the adjacent territories and the town of Energodar.

"The mining of Europe's largest nuclear power plant and the provocative shelling carried out by Russian troops should receive an appropriate assessment. Russia should get the status of a state sponsor of terrorism," Shmyhal said at a government meeting on Tuesday.

The Prime Minister noted that the authorities are talking about this with all partners and, first of all, with the United States, where such an initiative has already received the support of the Congress.

"On behalf of the government, I also want to call on the world to influence Russia so that its military immediately leave the territory of the nuclear power plant, adjacent territories and the town of Energodar. Since the consequences of a potential catastrophe will be felt not only by Ukraine, but also by the whole world," the Prime Minister stressed.
Taiwan displayed on Wednesday its most advanced fighter jet, the missile-equipped F-16V, in a rare nighttime demonstration in the wake of China's unprecedented military drills around the island.
The Israeli military on Friday said it fired interceptor missiles and protectively scrambled warplanes after what it described as a drone launched by Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group crossed its tense northern border.

The move comes just a day after Israel shot down what it said was another Hezbollah drone. Neither Lebanon nor Hezbollah gave immediate comment.

The military said the incursion set off air raid sirens in northern Israel, and that Iron Dome interceptor were deployed and fighter jets were patrolling the skies.

Israel and Hezbollah are bitter enemies that fought a monthlong war in 2006 that ended in a stalemate. Israel considers the Iranian-backed Hezbollah to be its greatest immediate threat, possessing an estimated 150,000 rockets and missiles capable of striking anywhere in Israel.

Israel has long expressed concerns that Hezbollah would obtain or develop guided missiles and attack drones.

Earlier this week, Hezbollah's chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said his group has been manufacturing military drones in Lebanon and has the technology to turn thousands of missiles in its possession into precision-guided munitions.

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Israel's new prime minister paid an unannounced visit to the border with Lebanon on Tuesday, threatening to unleash a harsh military response to what he described as ``unacceptable'' aggression by the Lebanese militant Hezbollah group.

The visit came at a time of heightened tensions with Hezbollah, a heavily armed group that fought Israel during a monthlong war in 2006.

On Monday, Israel said it intercepted a drone that crossed from Lebanese territory, and last week, Hezbollah's leader threatened Israel with military escalation if a dispute over a maritime border is not resolved in Lebanon's favor.

``Israel is prepared to act against any threat,'' said Yair Lapid, who took over Israel's caretaker prime minister on July 1. ``We have no interest in escalation but Hezbollah's aggression is unacceptable and is liable to lead the entire region into an unnecessary escalation.''

He was joined by Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz and top military officials as he toured the area.

Israel considers Hezbollah its most serious immediate threat, estimating the Iranian-backed group has some 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at Israel.

Earlier this month, the Israeli military said it shot down three unmanned aircraft launched by Hezbollah heading toward an area where an Israeli gas platform was recently installed in the Mediterranean Sea.

Hezbollah confirmed it had launched three unarmed drones toward the disputed maritime area.

The launch of the drones appeared to be an attempt by Hezbollah to influence US-brokered negotiations between Israel and Lebanon over their maritime border, an area that is rich in natural gas.

In a speech last week, Hezbollah's leader, said Lebanon should be able to extract oil and gas in Lebanese waters and warned that sending the drones was ``a modest beginning to where the situation could be heading.''

Lebanon claims the Karish gas field in the eastern Mediterranean is disputed territory, while Israel says it lies within its internationally recognized economic waters. The United States has been mediating indirect negotiations since October 2020.

Late Tuesday, Lapid flew over the gas field in an apparent message to Lebanon. ``Israel's natural gas reserves have the potential to contribute toward a solution to the global energy crisis,`` he said.

Israel and Lebanon, which have been officially at war since Israel's creation in 1948, both claim some 860 square kilometers (330 square miles) of the Mediterranean Sea.

Lebanon hopes to exploit offshore gas reserves as it grapples with the worst economic crisis in its modern history.

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China's live-fire drills around Taiwan -- which saw vessels encircle the democratically ruled island -- have offered an unprecedented insight into how Beijing may conduct a military campaign against its neighbour.

Beijing has also imposed economic sanctions and increased efforts to isolate Taiwan on the international stage, in a move that experts say will permanently alter the status quo on the Taiwan Strait.

AFP looks at what we learned from China's largest-ever military exercise around Taiwan, which was conducted in retaliation to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the self-ruled island this week.

Could China impose a blockade of Taiwan?

The Chinese military has conducted drills on Taiwan's eastern flank, a strategically vital area for supplies to the island's military forces -- as well as any potential American reinforcements -- for the first time.

This has sent an ominous signal that Beijing can now blockade the entire island and could prevent any entry or exit of commercial or military ships and aircraft.

Analysts have long speculated that this will be one of China's preferred strategies in the event of a war to conquer Taiwan.

"This crisis will signal that Beijing has the ability to repeat -- and intensify -- similar responses at will," said Christopher Twomey, a security scholar at the US Naval Postgraduate School in California.

"But sustaining (a blockade) would be very costly, both for China's reputation and in direct costs for its military."

China's current economic woes mean it is unlikely to risk a major disruption in the Taiwan Strait -- one of the world's busiest waterways -- for now.

Is the Chinese military battle-ready?

China has swiftly expanded and modernised its air, space and sea forces with the aim of projecting its power globally and narrowing the gap with the United States military.

Beijing's military capabilities still lag behind Washington's but it aims to have the ability by 2027 to overcome any pushback to reclaiming Taiwan, according to the Pentagon.

These military drills around Taiwan have put the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) Eastern Theater Command, which spearheaded the exercises, to the test, said Collin Koh, a naval affairs expert at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore.

They have shown how far reform of the Chinese military has come since the last Taiwan Strait crisis in 1995-96, demonstrating its "ability to pull in or to master a bigger range of capabilities", he said.

"At least the tangible assets they put on the ground, as well as the ability for them to pull off an exercise on this scale, does show that they are much more capable than they used to be back in the 1990s."

What's changed about China-Taiwan relations?

Taiwan's 23 million people have long lived with the possibility of an invasion, but that threat has intensified under President Xi Jinping, China's most assertive ruler in a generation.

China is now boycotting fruits and fish from Taiwan, economically harming the island in a move analysts say is designed to erode support from major voting blocs for the pro-independent government.

Beijing has put sanctions on companies that donate to the development assistance arm of Taiwan's government -- putting an end to what has been called Taiwan's "cheque-book diplomacy" with allies.

But China will aim to keep its military and economic manoeuvres below the threshold of war to avoid a direct confrontation with the US, analysts said.

"I think prolonged tensions are unlikely," said Bonnie Glaser, director of the Asia programme at the US-based German Marshall Fund think tank, told AFP.

"But certainly a major crisis would affect shipping, insurance rates, trade routes, and (global) supply chains."

A new normal for Taiwan?

Taiwan may have to get used to China holding similar military exercises in the future, Koh said.

"It will become the norm to have exercises that are close to the main Taiwan island itself... this time it has set a new precedent that the PLA will conduct drills of this sort."

"We're looking at the bar being raised to another level for future exercises of this scale and intensity."

China has periodically sent warships or planes across the median line -- an unofficial but once largely adhered-to border that runs down the middle of the Taiwan Strait -- during times of tension.

But Pelosi's visit has "given them the excuse or justification to say that in the future they will just legitimately carry out exercises east of the median line without having to pay due regard to it at all," Koh said.

Where do China-US relations go from here?

China has said it is ending cooperation with the United States on key issues including climate change and defence.

Washington has decried the move as "fundamentally irresponsible" as relations between the two superpowers have nosedived over Taiwan.

Beijing separately announced that it would personally sanction Pelosi -- third in line to the US presidency -- in response to her "vicious" and "provocative" actions.

Tian Shichen, a Beijing-based security analyst, told Chinese state-run publication Global Times that the break in communications had raised the risk of conflict, but ascribed blame solely to the US.

"At present, almost all the channels of mechanism communication between the Chinese and US militaries are interrupted, increasing the possibility of misunderstanding and unexpected incidents, all of which are the responsibility of the US," he was quoted as saying.

"This is a moment in the US-China relationship where we are really at a very low point," Glaser said in a discussion hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington DC.

"I hope our two governments will find a way forward to talk about their... redlines, their concerns and prevent a continuous downward spiral in the relationship."

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Chad's military government and more than 40 opposition groups signed a deal Monday to launch national peace talks this month, but the main rebel outfit refused to take part.

United Nations and African Union leaders urged the junta and opposition to seize the latest opportunity to stabilise a country considered key to international efforts to stamp out Islamic extremists in the Sahel region.

But after five months of mediation efforts by Qatar, the main rebel Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) announced hours before the ceremony in Doha that it would not join.

And several other armed groups, including the Military Command Council for the Salvation of the Republic, also refused to sign the agreement.

Under the deal, Mahamat Idriss Deby's Transitional Military Council and hundreds of opposition representatives will launch a national peace dialogue in the capital, N'Djamena, on August 20.

Deby, who was in Doha for the signing, took power after his father, long-time president Idriss Deby Itno, was killed in April last year shortly after taking personal charge of a counter-offensive against the rebels.

The dialogue aims to agree the rules for a presidential election that Deby has promised by October.

Chad, one of the world's poorest countries, has endured repeated uprisings and unrest since independence in 1960.

Deby promised a national dialogue and elections within 18 months after seizing power, but the mediation has been fraught since the first day when FACT and other groups walked out of the launch ceremony.

- Ceasefire and protection -

Opposition parties have demanded that Deby preclude himself from the election, but Deby has said this can only be negotiated in N'Djamena.

He has also said his transitional rule could be extended by another 18 months.

In a video message, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the signing was "a key moment for the Chadian people" but that the national dialogue had to be "inclusive" to succeed.

African Union Commission chief Moussa Faki Mahamat said it would be "crucial" for both sides to keep their promises to build trust with the Chadian people.

Qatar's Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani said the accord aimed to establish "a peace to replace the trouble and strife that the country has known for many long years".

But Jerome Tubiana, a French expert on Chadian rebel groups, struck a cautious note. "It is an agreement that will not resolve the issue of armed opposition" to the regime, he said, noting the refusal of the main armed factions to take part.

Forty-three of the 47 groups who remained at the end of the mediation signed the accord to start national talks in N'Djamena on August 20.

Mahamat Zene Cherif, the interim government's foreign minister, acknowledged that there had been "difficult talks" in Doha but said FACT had missed a "historic opportunity" to help the country.

The European Union also urged FACT to rethink.

"The European Union encourages all the political-military groups that have not yet adhered to the agreement to do so. This would allow the launch of a truly inclusive national dialogue," said a European Commission spokesperson.

The accord commits all signatories to a ceasefire, while the government has guaranteed the security of all those who return from abroad to take part in the talks.

FACT had demanded increased safety guarantees and the release of more than 300 of its fighters in government prisons.

FACT leader Mahamat Mahadi Ali told AFP: "War does not resolve anything. We want a peaceful and political resolution, but when we are forced to defend ourselves, we will defend ourselves."

Among the signatories was a veteran rebel leader, Mahamat Nouri, 75, who has been signing tentative peace agreements with Chadian governments since the 1970s.

He told AFP the N'Djamena talks could work if there was "political goodwill" on all sides.

Choua Dazi, another long-standing rebel, told AFP the N'Djamena talks had a "less than 50 percent chance of success" and that he did not expect an election this year.

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Three people were killed and dozens wounded Tuesday, the Palestinian health ministry said, as Israeli forces raided the occupied West Bank city of Nablus.

The latest aggression comes two days after deadly fighting between Israel and Islamic Jihad militants in the coastal enclave of Gaza was halted by a truce.

In the old city of Nablus, an AFP correspondent reported Palestinians trading gunfire with Israeli security forces.

At least 40 Palestinians were wounded, four of them in serious condition, according to the Palestinian health ministry.

Clashes with the Israeli army also broke out in other parts of Nablus, as Palestinians hurled stones at the troops.

Heavy gunfire was heard as dozens of Israeli military vehicles brought traffic in one of the West Bank's largest cities to a standstill.

"A violent clash developed with dozens of rioters who threw stones and threw explosives at the forces, who responded by means of crowd dispersal and shooting. Several injuries were confirmed," the army said.

"All the forces have left the city, there are no casualties to our forces," it added.

Israeli security forces have conducted near-daily operations in the West Bank in recent months, focusing on militants from the Islamic Jihad group.

At least 57 Palestinians have been killed since late March, mostly in the West Bank.

They have included suspected militants and also non-combatants, among them Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian-American dual national, who was covering an Israeli raid in Jenin.

Attacks on Israeli targets have killed 19 people over the same period, most of them civilians killed in attacks inside Israel. Three Israeli Arab attackers have also been killed.

Deadly Gaza fighting

On Friday, Israel launched what it called a "pre-emptive" aerial and artillery bombardment of Islamic Jihad positions in the Gaza Strip, leading militants in the coastal enclave to fire more than a thousand rockets in retaliation, according to the army.

An Egypt-brokered ceasefire reached Sunday ended three days of intense fighting that killed 46 Palestinians, 16 of them children, and wounded 360, according to Gaza's health ministry.

Prime Minister Yair Lapid said Monday that the bombardment had "landed a devastating blow to the enemy", and that the "entire senior military command of Islamic Jihad in Gaza was successfully targeted."

Islamic Jihad said 12 of its members had been killed, including commanders Taysir al-Jabari and Khaled Mansour.

Mohammad al-Hindi, a senior member of the group, said the ceasefire deal "contains Egypt's commitment to work towards the release of two prisoners".

They were named as Bassem al-Saadi, a senior figure in the group's political wing who was arrested in the West Bank early last week, and Khalil Awawdeh, a militant also in Israeli detention.

* This story was edited by Ahram Online

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Shia Muslims in Iraq and Lebanon chanted, paraded and beat their chests on Tuesday as they marked Ashoura, one of the most important dates on the religious calendar, commemorating the 7th century martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein.

The symbols of Shia piety and penitence blanketed major cities in Iraq, where Hussein was believed killed at the battle of Karbala, south of Baghdad, in 680 A.D.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of people converge on Karbala, some 80 kilometers (50 miles) south of Baghdad, to observe the solemn holy day.

Shia Muslims see Hussein and his descendants as the rightful heirs to the prophet. His killing at the hands of a rival Muslim faction embodies the rift between the Sunni and Shia sects of Islam and continues to shape the identity of the minority branch of Islam today.

The public rituals of Ashoura often fuels sectarian tensions in places like Iraq, Lebanon and Pakistan where Islam's two main sects both reside.

Security forces were on high alert for any violence, as Sunni extremist groups that consider Shia Muslims heretics have seized on the occasion to mount attacks in years past.

In Iraq, the powerful cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has used the emotional religious occasion to stir up support for his movement, deepening the country's inter-Shia divisions. Unable to form a government, Iraq descended further into political chaos last week when thousands of al-Sadr's supporters stormed and occupied the parliament building. Their sit-in continues outside the assembly, making it impossible for lawmakers to convene and raising the specter of civil strife.

In the Shia-dominated Baghdad suburb of Sadr City, al-Sadr's portrait hangs from nearly every door. Processions of men and boys expressed extreme fervor in the Ashoura rituals of self-flagellation on Tuesday. They beat their heads and chests in unison and whipped themselves with chains to the point of bleeding.

"We inherited this from our fathers and grandfathers,'' said participant Hamza Abdul-Jalil. "God willing, we will continue on this path.''

In Lebanon, processions shut down Shia areas across the country and Beirut's biggest suburb.

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Xi extends condolences to Cuban president over fuel farm explosions

Xinhua) 08:06, August 09, 2022

BEIJING, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, sent a message of condolence on Monday to Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel over explosions at a fuel storage facility in Cuba.

In his message to Diaz-Canel, also first secretary of the Communist Party of Cuba Central Committee, Xi said he was shocked to learn about the fuel farm explosions in Matanzas province in Cuba, which caused serious casualties and property losses.

Xi noted that on behalf of the Chinese government and people and in his own name, he expressed deep condolences for those killed in the explosions and sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and the injured, adding that China is ready to provide assistance to Cuba.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Egypts Minister of Housing Assem El-Gazzar has directed his ministry to study a plan to rationalise energy and water consumption across Egypt, which includes reducing lighting on roads, regulating the use of air conditioners in government buildings amid the ongoing global energy crisis.

"Rationalising [power and water] consumption is no longer an option and we have to deal with the rationalisation issue in an optimal manner in light of the crisis the world is currently witnessing," a statement by the ministry cited El-Gazzar as saying on Tuesday.

He stressed the need to reduce reliance on energy, electricity and water resources to ensure their optimal use.

In a meeting with heads of the new cities' administrations, El-Gazzar ordered setting up a plan with well-defined objectives and measurement indicators for each city to reduce water and energy consumption.

The ministry will also issue directives to malls and commercial complexes to participate in the state's plan of rationalising energy consumption, said El-Gazzar.

Redirecting resources

The Egyptian state has a surplus of energy and does not suffer from any shortage in power generation, El-Gazzar said, while noting, however, that it requires large amounts of petroleum and natural gas. Therefore, he added, reducing electricity consumption will help the state redirect petroleum and natural gas to other sectors.

Such steps would help maximise the utilisation of these resources, reduce imports of petroleum derivatives, and save foreign currency for other needs, the minister noted.

Egypt has an electricity surplus of more than 25 percent according to Ayman Hamza, the spokesman for the Ministry of Electricity said in June.

While most power in Egypt is generated by gas, the country plans to increase the supply of electricity generated from renewable sources to 42 percent by 2035.

The need to reduce petroleum use has become more pressing amid soaring energy prices worldwide in light of the Russia-Ukraine crisis, which forced Egypt last month to raise the price of fuel products by up to EGP 1 per litre in quarterly review, the biggest rise in fuel prices since October 2019.

However, the government has announced postponing a planned periodic rise in electricity prices to start in January next year instead of July to alleviate the citizens' suffering amid high prices.

Egyptian officials have repeatedly affirmed that the crisis in Ukraine has had a major impact on the world's economy, of which Egypt is a part.

Since the start of the crisis in February, the state has called on Egyptians to rationalise consumption of strategic commodities to ease the foreign currency burden on the state but has affirmed the availability of basic commodities until the end of the year.

In June, Egypt's Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly urged Egyptians to rationalise their consumption amid the global food crisis, noting that this would enable the state to provide all needs and keep commodity reserves unaffected.

Egypt, which is one of world's most water-scarce countries, has also set a plan to rationalise water consumption and improve water quality through a strategy that runs until 2050 at a cost of up to EGP 900 billion.

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Eco-friendly electric scooters joined the fleet of the Egyptian Ambulance Organisation (EAO) to respond to emergencies and provide first aid to injured people until the arrival of traditional ambulance vehicles, Acting Minister of Health Khaled Abdel-Ghaffar said on Tuesday.

In a statement, Health Ministry Spokesperson Hossam Abdel-Ghaffar said that the ambulance scooters are EAOs latest service introduced to the public, adding that their high speed and small size enable them to pass through narrow streets and alleyways to provide aid to injured people.

He noted that the ambulance scooters are equipped with first aid kits and will help the injured until the ambulance vehicles arrive.

EAO receives emergency calls round the clock on the phone number 123.

The ministrys spokesperson asserted that the electric scooter could go over 100 kilometers with a full battery charge and does not have any carbon emissions.

The EAO Chairman Mohamed Gad said that the ambulance e-scooter launch meets the Egyptian state's relentless efforts to protect the environment, which is the target of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP27) scheduled to be hosted in the Red Sea city of Sharm El-Sheikh this November.

The chairman pointed out that the expansion in ambulance services will be presented in COP27.

He elaborated that EAO made a leap in depending on clean energy through building 77 solar power stations in a number of its branches nationwide within the framework of the National Strategy for Climate Change 2050.

Egypt is exerting great efforts for sustainable development and green economy in many sectors, including transportation.

Last September, Egypt's Ministry of Health and Mercedes-Benz reached an agreement whereby the German automotive giant will supply Egypt with 2,510 ambulances and mobile clinics for over EGP 3 billion ($190 million), which will be running on environment-friendly engines.

In June 2022, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly directed the EAO to contract the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) for the manufacturing of six marine ambulance boats in the Red Sea and South Sinai governorates to serve the tourism sector, cruises, and various marine activities.

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Egyptian actress Ragaa Hussein passed away at a hospital in Cairo earlier on Tuesday at the age of 85 after a long struggle with illness.

Related Egyptian Actors Syndicate condemns Israeli aggression on Gaza

Ragaa Husseins funeral ceremony was held in the afternoon in 6th of October City led by her daughter and ex-husband and attended by a number of artists including the Actors Syndicate president Ashraf Zaki.

Many cultural entities and personas in Egypt and the Arab world have mourned the departure of the veteran artist.

She was an inspiring example in Egyptian and Arab worlds creativity through what she presented in her career in cinema, theatre, and TV, stated Egyptian culture minister Ines Abdel-Dayem.

Born in Qalyubia governorate in 1937, Hussein, who launched her career in the 50s with Naguib El-Rihani Theatrical Troupe, has participated in almost 200 works in cinema, theatre, and TV.

The multi-awarded actress latest honoring was in May as part of the 24th edition of the Egyptian National Film Festival.

Among Ragaa Hussein's most memorable appearances are Youssef Chahines films; Return of the Prodigal Son (1987), An Egyptian Story (1982), and Alexandria, Again and Forever (1989), as well as other important works like Orid Hallan (1975), Afwah wa-Araneb (1977), and Nawara (2015).

She is one of the most appealing faces of Egyptian classic TV drama with appearances in all-time hits like El-Shajd Wal-Domou, Al-Maal Wal-Banoun, Zeab El-Gabal, as well as late hits like Wahat Al-Ghouroub and Ayza Atgawez.

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in DR Congo on Tuesday for a one-day visit expected to focus on a conflict in the east of the country that has sparked tensions with Rwanda.

Blinken, on the second leg of an African tour, was met at Kinshasa's Ndjili Airport by Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula, the president's office said.

He and President Felix Tshisekedi will have a "one-on-one" meeting at the presidential palace in the evening, it said in a statement.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is seeking international support as it tussles with neighbouring Rwanda over an armed group, the M23, in the country's deeply troubled east.

The DRC accuses Rwanda of backing the rebels, an assertion repeatedly denied by Kigali, which Blinken will visit immediately after his one-day stay in Kinshasa.

Tshisekedi "will not fail to raise the questions of strategic partnership between the DRC and the USA", the presidential office said in a statement on Monday.

Blinken arrived from South Africa, where he said the United States was seeking a "true partnership" with Africa and was not vying with other powers for influence on the continent.

The M23, for "March 23 Movement", is a primarily Congolese Tutsi group.

It first leapt to prominence in 2012 when it briefly captured the eastern DRC city of Goma before a joint Congolese-UN offensive drove it out.

After lying mostly dormant for years, the rebel group resumed fighting late last year, seizing the strategic town of Bunagana on the Ugandan border in June and prompting thousands of people to flee their homes.

Kinshasa and Kigali have had strained relations since the mass influx of Rwandan Hutus accused of slaughtering Tutsis during the 1994 Rwanda genocide.

Relations began to thaw after Tshisekedi took office in 2019 but the M23's resurgence has revived tensions.

Rwanda and M23

On the eve of Blinken's swing through the DRC and Rwanda, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged him to condemn the M23 attacks and press Rwanda on its rights record, which included a "brutal" crackdown on dissent.

"As in 2012, the M23 are committing war crimes against civilians," HRW said in a press release.

"Witnesses described summary killings of at least 29 people, including children, in June and July... The US should raise with Rwanda the reliable reports that it is again supporting the M23's abusive conduct in eastern Congo."

In a 131-page report to the UN Security Council seen last week by AFP, experts said Rwandan troops had intervened militarily inside the DRC since at least November.

Rwanda also "provided troop reinforcements" for specific M23 operations, the experts' report said, "in particular when these aimed at seizing strategic towns and areas".

The M23 is just one of scores of armed groups that roam eastern DRC, many of them a legacy of two regional wars that flared late last century.

One of the bloodiest militias is the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an organisation that the Islamic State group describes as its "Central Africa Province" affiliate.

The State Department placed the ADF on its list of IS-linked "terrorist" organisations in March 2021.

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Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi discussed on Tuesday with the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani the latest regional developments especially the Israeli aggression in the Palestinian Gaza Strip and the Egyptian-brokered ceasefire.

In a telephone call he received from the ruler of the Gulf state, El-Sisi and Al-Thani exchanged views about the regional developments in the framework of coordinating the Arab efforts to confront regional challenges, the Egyptian presidency said.

From his side, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad expressed his appreciation for the Egyptian efforts led by President El-Sisi to strengthen regional peace and security especially lately with the success of the Egyptian brokerage to reach a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group earlier this week.

Qatars Emir also discussed with the Egyptian President other issues related to bilateral cooperation asserting that the Gulf state is keen to boost the current cooperation between the two countries.

They agreed to continue bolstering coordination and consultation regarding the ongoing regional developments to protect Arab National security.

Sheikh Tamim bin Al Thani visited Egypt in June for the first time since Cairo and Doha resumed diplomatic ties last year as part of Al-Ula agreement that ended an over three-year-long diplomatic rift.

Fighting between Israel and the Islamic Jihad started in Gaza on Friday after Israel assassinated prominent Islamic Jihad leader Taysir Al-Jaabari in Gaza through airstrikes, ending a year of calm in the enclave and prompting the group to retaliate.

Both Israel and the Islamic Jihad said that they had agreed to the Cairo-brokered ceasefire proposal.

The ceasefire came into effect on Sunday at 11:30 local time (8:30 GMT) after Egypt conducted intense communications with both sides to contain the escalation since the launch of the airstrikes.

The three-day Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip left at least 43 Palestinians dead, including 15 children and four women, and 311 wounded, the Palestinian health ministry said.

On Monday in a statement released by the White House, US President Joe Biden thanked President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and the senior Egyptian officials who played a central role in this diplomacy, as well as Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar and his team for helping to bring these hostilities to an end.

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US Secretary of State Anthony Blinkens whirlwind visit to three African countries is the second in less than 12 months, as he visited key US regional partners Senegal, Kenya and Nigeria in November 2021.

In South Africa, the first stop on this trip, Blinken unveiled the US Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa, marking a remarkable paradigmatic shift in Americas engagement with Africa.

Why do I call the new strategy a paradigmatic shift?

First, it sets a positive tone for US engagement with Africa. Previous US strategies began from the premise that Africa was not a strategic actor in the broad scheme of American foreign policy.

This strategy is different. It starts from the assumption that Africa is a core priority of US foreign policy.

This guiding assumption frames the fundamental commitment to working together toward common aspirations in the advancement of a shared agenda.

The tone is matched by the emphasis on African agency. And the ability of the continent to lead and participate effectively in decisions when it comes to economic, political and military engagements.

But, first some reflections on Blinkens three-country visit.

Significance Of Three-Country Stopovers

The visit to South Africa underscored US interest in re-engaging the South African government within the context of the US-South Africa Strategic Dialogue framework.

This was crafted by the Barack Obama administration in 2010 to deepen the relationship between the two sides.

The dialogue provides a forum for both partners to review common aspirations and objectives while also addressing persisting disagreements. But it was interrupted by the Donald Trump administration as well as the onset of the COVID-19 crisis.

South Africa is one of the few African countries with this kind of strategic partnership with the US. The forum therefore reinforces South Africa as an African actor that Washington takes seriously. This is despite differences which both partners should manage amicably.

Hopefully, the Blinken delegation may have had the opportunity to cautiously raise concerns about the instability and disarray in the governing African National Congress (ANC) coalition.

This has had a detrimental impact on South Africas stature in foreign policy. In Africa and globally.

In the DRC and Rwanda, Blinken will confront the unending conflicts in the region. These have decimated lives and communities, frustrated international and regional stabilisation efforts, and consigned the Great Lakes region to global marginality.

This is despite its abundant resources.

Bilateral, regional, and international efforts to resolve the root cause of the problem, the antagonism between the DRC and Rwanda, have failed. They need the injection of US mediation to break the impasse.

The government of President Felix Tshisekedi has made decisive attempts to mend fences with Rwandas President Paul Kagame. But the two are incapable of resolving their problems while conflict persists.

Kagame will not cease his relentless military adventures in the region if the DRC and its supporters cannot eliminate insurgent Hutu rebels implicated in the 1994 genocide.

In addition, neither the DRC government nor the United Nations Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) seem able to marshal the resources to be able to pacify the eastern DRC sufficiently to address Kagames concerns.

It is going to require US diplomatic dexterity and a sustained economic and political re-commitment to resolve this 30-year-old crisis.

A start may be a US-led military force composed of new military contingents from various countries. This could be bolstered by a bold US commitment against authoritarian and autocratic regimes in the region.

But Blinken is bound to face opposition from some of the key players .

The Paradigm Shift

The strategy outlined by Blinken has four key objectives. These are fostering openness and open societies; delivering democratic and security dividends; advancing pandemic recovery and economic opportunity; and supporting conservation, climate adaptation and just energy transition (pp. 7-10).

An innovative idea is the involvement of the US International Development Agency (USAID) on the education front. Whats been tabled is that US academic institutions and the private sector provide online courses for African students. Subjects could include science, technology, engineering and Maths (STEM) (p.16).

The strategy also emphasises digital democracy, the centrality of cities, and incorporation of African American diaspora in US-Africa relations.

Beyond these, the four objectives capture the continuity of policies that past administrations have articulated.

The change prescribed in the strategy, therefore, is in tone rather than substance.

Third, sensitivities to race play a dominant role in the strategy, reflective of the convergence of Africanists and African Americans in the Biden administration and its Africa policy.

Throughout the document, there is mention of placing people of colour at the heart of US-Africa relations as well asrecognizing the historical and ongoing connections between addressing racial justice and equality in Sub-Saharan Africa and the United States (p.12).

Equally germane, the strategy acknowledges past criticisms of US training and support for African militaries that launch coups against civilian regimes and abuse human rights.

Finally, the strategy is cleverly articulated to undercut critics who often invoke US competition with China and Russia in Africa as the main driver of engagement with Africa. The strategy poignantly addresses this issue. It states:

the United States has an abiding interest in ensuring that the region remains open, and accessible to all, and that governments and publics are able to make their own choices, consistent with international obligations. (p.7).

Instead of being preachy and prescriptive with respect to African relations with other powers, the strategy presents African states with the enticing option of working with the US in the advancement of common values, mutual respect, democracy, and prosperity.

The strategy is a fresh beginning in US-Africa relations. But its outcomes will be judged on two factors. Will the Biden administration be able to negotiate implementation in the fractious US political process? And will African countries be able to seize opportunities that the strategy presents?

The December 2022 Africa-US summit in Washington will be an excellent opportunity to gauge responses to this strategy.

* This story was published in the Conversation

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The Public Prosecution started on Tuesday questioning a man who is accused of the killing of a female university student colleague in broad daylight in the city of Zagazig in the Nile Delta earlier today, the second such incident in less than two months.

According to the prosecution's statement, Salma Bahgat, a 20-year-old student who was studying mass communication at Shorouk Academy, was stabbed multiple times with a knife by an Islam Mohamed, a 22-year-old colleague, in the lobby of a building in the city of Zagazig, the capital of Sharqiya governorate in the Nile Delta.

The authorities arrested the accused at the scene of the crime, according to the prosecution statement.

The prosecution have asked forensics to examine the injuries on the victim in order to determine the cause of death.

It also plans to hear the testimony of a number of witnesses.

Media reports suggested that the suspect has recently expressed rage and threatened the victim in posts on social media platforms after she ended their relationship.

Last June, a similar incident stirred public anger when a 21-year-old student at the Faculty of Arts Mansoura University killed his colleague Nayera Ashraf also in broad daylight after she rejected his interest in her. In July, a criminal court issued a preliminary death penalty verdict against the perpetrator in the case.

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Following its withdrawal from Mali, Frances declining influence in West Africa has escalated into a legitimacy crisis. Popular protests against French presence have erupted in Burkina Faso, Guinea, the Central African Republic and Chad, and Paris relations with a number of West African capitals have deteriorated considerably in recent months. This phenomenon has proceeded in inverse proportion to Turkeys growing influence in Africa to which testify a growing number of bilateral political, economic and security agreements between Ankara and countries in the region.

Capitalising on the fertile environment created by Frances shrinking profile in West Africa, Ankara has worked to establish broader and more solid alliances based on an array of interests ranging from the economic, technological and military sphere to culture, education and healthcare. Evidence of the strategic importance that Ankara attaches to its West African drive could be seen in the Turkish-African summit hosted in Istanbul in November 2021. The theme of the summit, the third of its kind, was Enhanced Partnership for Common Development and Prosperity.

Not surprisingly, the end of Operation Barkhane and the withdrawal of French forces from Mali gave Ankara an opening to boost its relations to West Africa in counterterrorism. In November 2021, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed a military cooperation agreement with Niger, stating that his country aimed to support Nigers efforts to fight terrorism. In a similar spirit, Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga said his country was open to cooperation with Turkey in defence industries, adding that Mali needed friendly countries such as Turkey to help it fight terrorism.

But this is far from the only context in which Turkey has expanded its footprint in the continent. Energy is another. With the growing discovery of oil reserves in the region, Turkey has achieved major inroads in joint oil exploration and extraction projects with a number of West African nations. In Nigeria, Turkey has stepped in to fill the vacuum created by the departure of International Oil Companies (IOCs) from Nigerias oil and gas sector.

In tandem with such ventures, Turkey has been developing political and diplomatic relations in the area. For example, President of the Chadian Transitional Military Council, Mohamed Idriss Deby, paid an official visit to Turkey on 27 October 21. This was followed by the Turkish-African summit in November, attended by 16 African heads of state and 102 ministers. Then, in February 2022, Erdogan undertook an African tour that included Senegal, DRC and Guinea-Bissau.

Turkeys African drive seeks to achieve a number of aims, one of which is to market its defence manufactures. By the end of last year, Ankara had signed defence cooperation and sales pacts with Morocco, Ethiopia, Niger, Angola and Chad. According to the Turkish Exporters Assembly (TIM), Turkish arms sales to Africa had risen by 39.7 per cent as of December 2021, with exports reaching a record high of $2.793 billion in the first 11 months of that year.

More generally, Ankara seeks to invest in resources abroad as a means to boost its ailing economy. It is particularly interested in mineral resources (oil, uranium and gold), but also in developing African agricultural and livestock wealth. President Erdogan has frequently expressed how keen his country is to increase its volume of trade with Africa, which had topped $29 billion by the end of 2021.

Politically, Turkeys drive to forge and develop ties with North and West Africa is informed by a desire to strengthen its ability to rival French influence in the area, on the one hand, and to counter moves by Paris that Ankara sees as contrary to its interests in the Mediterranean. Analysts therefore expect Turkey to invest the progress it has made in its African relations in offsetting the mounting pressures it has encountered, not just from France but from Western powers in general. In this regard, Washington still sees Africa as a strategic sphere for countering its Russian, Chinese and Iranian adversaries, and observers have noted its concern that the French withdrawal from the Sahel has given an opening to Russian influence. Accordingly, despite its tensions with Ankara over a number of issues, the US might consider supporting Turkish presence in West Africa as a counterweight to Russia and Chinas growing influence there. If so, Turkey would naturally try to leverage this role to win concessions in areas of dispute between it and the West.

Ankaras foreign policies are often a projection of its domestic policies and concerns. In this instance, Turkeys growing presence in Africa is an asset under the belt of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) as it approaches the critical elections in the spring of 2023. This would be all the more the case if, in addition to the economic payoffs, it could boast victories in its contentions with the West. Turkey has been unable to retrieve the standing it once had in the Arab region, but Africa offers the AKP an opportunity to revive its dwindling status. Turkish opinion polls have shown steady declines in the popularity of the ruling party and its leader, Erdogan, against the backdrop of rising consumer prices and lower living standards.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada Al-Sadrs ambitions may have outstripped his abilities as he is now seeking to rival Iran, writes Al-Ahram Weekly.

His unstoppable tweets may have brought an answer to a mystery that has absorbed the world for years as Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada Al-Sadr has mounted coup after coup in Iraqs politics: what does Al-Sadr want?

A daring remark by the powerful Iraqi cleric last week answered that question and then posed another far graver mystery. What is his endgame? How far will he go?

Iraq is the first capital [centre] of Shiism, Al-Sadr tweeted. This means others should follow Iraqs suit in Shiism and not vice versa.

The tweet came in the midst of Iraqs worst and longest-lasting political crisis in years and in one that has divided the countrys Shia political factions.

The fracture between Al-Sadr and the countrys Iran-backed Shia groups deepened after last Octobers general elections, in which a bloc affiliated to Al-Sadr won the largest number of seats in the Iraqi parliament and sought to form a government under his control.

To support his argument that the Shias could live with an ethnic or political divide, Al-Sadr quoted Islams holy book, the Quran, which for Muslims is the ultimate source of authority and guidance.

Had Allah willed, He could have easily made you one community of believers. But He leaves to stray whoever He wills and guides whoever He wills, Al-Sadr quoted.

His statement seems to signal sharp political and ideological disagreements between his mass movement with its powerful tribal base and those close to the Islamic Republic of Iran.

While the political rift is well known and centres on Irans support for Al-Sadrs foes, the theoretical differences have been discrete and have hidden conflicting ideologies.

The Iranian system of governance is based on the velayat-e faqih, or the guardianship of the Islamic jurist, in place since the countrys 1979 Islamic Revolution.

At its core, the theory, developed by the late Iranian cleric Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini while building up to the revolution, justifies the rule of the clergy over the state.

The theory is rooted in the Twelvers branch of Shia Islam and has historically been applied to justify limited clerical guardianship over the congregation.

But Khomeini argued that governments should be run in accordance with Islamic Sharia Law and therefore a leading Islamic jurist, a faqih, must provide political guidance.

While the theory was enshrined in Irans post-revolution constitution, for many of Khomeinis followers the controversial concept could also be applied to Shia Muslims worldwide.

Such a recognition by Khomeinis adherents outside Iran would be interpreted as constituting a contradiction with state sovereignty, national identity, and independence.

But if Al-Sadrs remarks are put into a broader perspective, they mean that the powerful Iraqi Shia cleric has entrenched himself on the opposite side of the theological divide.

Many prominent Shia religious leaders do not support Khomeinis doctrine of the absolute guardianship of the cleric and argue that a prominent clergyman can only be a source of imitation (marja al-taqlid) concerning religious issues and not of political ones.

Iraqs most revered Shia cleric Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani has implicitly rejected Khomeinis concept of the absolute rule of the supreme jurist as manifested in Irans authoritarian rule.

Al-Sistanis more liberal interpretation suggests that the authority of the marja, or spiritual leader, lies in the defence of Islam and not in absolute power over state affairs.

The controversial theory is also problematic in countries with substantial Shia populations, such as Bahrain, Iraq, Lebanon, and Yemen.

The late Lebanese Shia cleric Mohamed Mahdi Shams Al-Din called for the ethnic identity of Shia Arabs to remain independent of the Shia in Persian Iran.

Shams Al-Din, who died in 2001, had his own problems with the Islamic Republic over the interpretation when he was chair of the Supreme Islamic Shia Council in Lebanon.

He reiterated that Shia Muslims in the Arab countries should remain loyal to their native homelands, and he rejected any political affiliation with Iran.

He advocated the theory of the wilayat al-umma, or the rule of Muslims, over their own affairs in contrast to Khomeinis argument for the jurisdiction of the clergy over the state.

Shams Al-Dins ideas brought him into conflict with the Lebanese Hizbullah Party, which advocates Khomeinis doctrine of velayat-e faqih.

It is not clear how Al-Sadr, who does not have high credentials in the Shia religious hierarchy, views this debate, but he has called for a civil and democratic state in Iraq.

Relations between Iraqs most-powerful Shia leader and Iran also plummeted to their lowest ebb since the elections after Al-Sadr did not heed the Islamic Republics offer of mediation to end the current government crisis.

Al-Sadr has insisted that his bloc should form a broad-based government in alliance with Kurdish and Sunni groups that would exclude his Iranian-backed opponents from power.

Since the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 that triggered the fall of former dictator Saddam Hussein, Iran has been pursuing a key goal of consolidating its influence in Iraq through strong ties with the countrys Shia groups.

In order to stretch further into Iraq, Iran has had to unite the countrys Shia groups under its auspices and help to empower the community by translating their demographic weight into political influence.

Irans interference has infuriated many Iraqis, and the turning point came with the 2019 uprising in the largely Shia-dominated provinces of Iraq that showed increasing anti-Iran sentiment.

During their current protests in Iraq, Al-Sadrs followers have also chanted anti-Iran slogans such as Iran out out and demanded an end to Irans hegemony over Iraqs politics.

Even before he fired his bombshell, Al-Sadr had fuelled Tehrans anger by refusing to join with the Iran-aligned Shia parties in forming a new Iraqi government.

By escalating his rhetoric, Al-Sadr has driven his standoff with Iran into further uncertainty as the influence of the Islamic Republic begins to wane in Iraq.

Though Iranian officials have been tight-lipped about their hidden tension with Al-Sadr, Tehrans unofficial spokesmen and media have been decrying his stances.

Most of the criticism heaped on Al-Sadr by Iranian sources has focused on his sowing discord among the Shia, an accusation which amounts to sedition.

At a time when the Sadrist Trend has triggered turmoil in Iraq, Iraqis calling for unity and resistance have gathered to stand up against a trend which willingly or not stands with the enemies of the Iraqi people, said an article in Kayhan, a mouthpiece of Irans spiritual leader Ali Khamenei.

Irans Ettelaat, Sharq and Sobha Noo newspapers, which reflect the opinions of different sectors in Iran, have charged that Al-Sadrs behaviour is anti-unity, especially the unity of Iraqs Shias.

Al-Sadr has often criticised what he calls the dependence of his political rivals on Iran and accused them of breaking Shia ranks.

But this is the first time he has gone as far as to defy Iran on its most sacred turf and challenge its claim of representing the worlds Shias.

Al-Sadrs statement has dealt a severe blow to Irans Islamic revolutionary discourse because the criticism comes from a powerful Shia cleric who descends from the prestigious clerical family of Al-Sadr.

It is not clear what Al-Sadrs endgame is, but he has certainly positioned himself as one of Irans main foes in Iraq and probably also beyond.

By engaging the Iranian regimes ideology, which it has established a worldwide network of religious and cultural organisations to propagate, Al-Sadr is challenging Tehrans hegemonic pursuits around the Middle East.

For many, Al-Sadr, who has long been trumpeting his own Iraqi nationalist accreditation, is now introducing himself as an advocate of Arab Shiism in the face of Persian Irans version of the creed.

The current feud is crucial in view of Al-Sistanis poor health, which has thrown a spotlight on the succession to the leadership of the prestigious Shia religious seminary in the Iraqi city of Najaf when he passes away.

Reports have been circulating that Iran may try to get in the way of Al-Sistanis succession by pushing for clergymen who support its model of Shia theocracy and have allegiance to its own valayi-e faqih in Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

On Saturday, Al-Sadr paid a visit to Al-Sistanis sanctuary driven in a car that his father, Ayatollah Mohamed Al-Sadr, used before his assassination in 1997 in a sign that the ailing 92-year-old clergyman may be tilting against Iran in the standoff.

Al-Sadr may also be receiving backing from US allies the heavyweight Arab regimes in the Gulf, which believe he could save Iraq from Iran.

While he has demonstrated his ability to shake up Irans influence in Iraq, it remains to be seen how Tehran will respond to Al-Sadrs defiance.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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A political science student recently asked my advice on a current affairs topic to write his MA thesis on. I recommended the situation in Ukraine. But rather than approaching it from the angle of a great power invading another, sovereign state, something to which he could add little given how much has been written from this perspective since the outset of the war in February, I thought he might be able to contribute something new if he studied the extent to which Ukraine was responsible for igniting and perpetuating the war. I suggested that he should focus on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who started out as a comedian and eventually went into politics and then found in that war an opportunity to play the role of national hero defending his small nation against a mighty invader. This is reminiscent of one of Israels creation myths: Israel, a small, peace-loving nation surrounded by a sea of Arabs bent on its destruction. It is the modern Israeli David and Goliath myth, and it is not surprising that Zelensky should borrow from it. He personally subscribes to the Zionist creed, as he affirms in his frequent statements in defence of Israels right to defend itself against Palestinian terrorism and his allusions to Ukraine as the second Israel. I proposed to the young scholar that he should make the following the central question of his thesis: Is Zelensky defending his country or is he sacrificing its security and territorial integrity in pursuit of personal glory?

An Amnesty International report released on 4 August accused Ukraine of violating international humanitarian law and conventions related to the protection of civilians in times of war. Noting that Ukrainian forces have put civilians in harms way by establishing bases and operating weapons systems in populated residential areas, including in schools and hospitals, the report cites 19 instances in which the lives of Ukrainian civilians were jeopardised in this manner in villages and cities of the Kharkiv, Donbas and Mykolaiv oblasts. We have documented a pattern of Ukrainian forces putting civilians at risk and violating the laws of war when they operate in populated areas, said AI Secretary General Agnes Callamard. Being in a defensive position does not exempt the Ukrainian military from respecting international humanitarian law.

I will add here that, since the outset of the war, Zelensky has rejected all initiatives to promote a negotiated settlement. Instead, he has continually asked the West for more weapons as though he wants the war to drag on for as long as possible. What does it all mean?

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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The visit by Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan last week raises important questions regarding the US strategy of confrontation in the region.

On 2 August, the Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, paid an official visit to Taiwan.

During the previous two weeks, and in the absence of an official confirmation or denial from her office, the Chinese government had warned that if Pelosi visited Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, there would be grave consequences for Chinese-US relations.

In their fifth telephone conversation that took place two weeks ago, Chinese and US Presidents Xi Jinping and Joe Biden discussed the question of Taiwan, each reiterating the traditional position of his country in its respect. Without dwelling specifically on a probable visit by the speaker of the House to Taiwan, Xi Jinping told his US counterpart that whoever plays with fire has to bear the consequences.

Once Pelosis visit had ended, the consequences became very plain to see, particularly from the standpoint of the Taiwanese government and the US administration. The Taiwan Affairs Office of the ruling Chinese Communist Party said on 2 August that any attempt to seek independence by Taiwan would be shattered by the powerful force of the Chinese people. China also imposed a series of punitive economic moves against Taiwan including suspending certain exports.

However, the most serious consequences were military in nature. The Chinese Peoples Liberation Army announced and then carried out from 4 to 7 August military manoeuvres in six zones around Taiwan and in areas that are beyond the median line that demarcates the territorial waters of China and Taiwan.

The New York Times reported on 3 August that two of the six zones were inside Taiwans maritime border. The Chinese military had even fired ballistic missiles, it said. The Japanese government also accused China of firing missiles in the direction of its Exclusive Economic Zone. It is difficult to say whether they were fired intentionally, or inadvertently, or by mistake.

Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister Xie Feng stressed on 2 August that Taiwan is Chinas Taiwan. The Chinease Foreign Ministry summoned the US ambassador in Beijing to protest officially against Pelosis visit.

The ill-advised visit remains a subject of debate. The main question is the why of the visit and the significance of its timing.

As to the why, Pelosi herself penned an opinion piece published in the Washington Post on 2 August entitled Why I am Leading a Congressional Delegation to Taiwan. In it, she said that we must stand by Taiwan and that this vibrant, robust democracy is under threat.

From her perspective, similar to that of the Biden administration, China has dramatically intensified tensions with Taiwan in the form of patrols by bombers, fighter jets, and surveillance aircraft near and even over Taiwans air-defence zone. These developments have led the US department of defence to conclude that Chinas Army is likely preparing for a contingency to unify Taiwan with the Peoples Republic of China by force, Pelosi said.

The following quotation from her piece is highly revealing and surprising at the same time. Pelosi accused the Chinese Communist Party of accelerating aggression and said that her visit should be seen as an unequivocal statement that America stands with Taiwan, our democratic partner, to defend itself and its freedom.

She stressed that her trip was taking place at a time when Russia wages its premeditated, illegal war against Ukraine... [and] it is essential that America and our allies make clear that we never give in to autocrats.

Framing her visit in these terms makes one wonder if including Taiwan on her Asian tour during which she visited Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and Japan had not been cleared and coordinated with the White House in the context of its overall strategy of confrontation with China and Russia.

The Chinese ambassador to Washington, Qin Gang, also wrote an opinion piece in the Washington Post on 4 August in which he underlined the fact that Taiwan is one of the very few issues that might take China and the US to conflict.

He was absolutely right in calling for extra caution and a sense of responsibility, which are indispensable when it comes to Taiwan.

Lets hope that his call for extra caution and a sense of responsibility will find listening ears in Washington. The fact of the matter is that China, whether under the leadership of President Xi Jinping or any other leader, will never compromise on its One China Policy.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters on 5 August in Cambodia, where he was attending a conference for the foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), that American warships will continue to pass through the Taiwan Strait, accusing China of using Pelosis visit to Taiwan as a pretext to increase provocative military activity in and around the Taiwan Strait.

China, in retaliation, decided to cancel the so- called China-US Theatre Commanders Talk, China-US Defence Policy Coordination Talks, and China-US Military Maritime Consultative Agreement meetings.

Quoted in The Financial Times on 8 August Vivian Balakrishnan, the Foreign Minister of Singapore said, speaking of the positions of ASEAN, We all have skin in this game and... want America and China to get along, warning that this is a dangerous moment for the whole world.

Indeed, it is.

* The writer is former assistant foreign minister.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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A suicide bomber targeted a security convoy in a former Pakistani Taliban stronghold in northwestern Pakistan, killing four soldiers, officials said Tuesday.

No one claimed responsibility for the attack on Monday in North Waziristan, a district in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that borders Afghanistan. A military statement said four soldiers were martyred in the attack and that an investigation was underway.

The attack came a day after a late night roadside bombing in eastern Afghanistan struck a vehicle carrying members of the Pakistani Taliban, killing a senior leader and three other militants traveling with him.

The Pakistani Taliban blamed intelligence agents for the high-profile killing on Sunday night, without offering evidence or elaborating.

Tehreek-e-Taliban (TTP) said an announcement would be made regarding "the martyrdom of a central leader".

The slain leader of the Pakistani Taliban, the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP, was Abdul Wali, also widely known as Omar Khalid Khurasani.

Khurasani's death was a heavy blow to the TTP, which is in talks with the Pakistani government amid an ongoing cease-fire, announced in May. Isolated militant attacks have continued, though the TTP has not claimed responsibility for any of them since the truce first went into effect. The talks are being hosted by the Afghan Taliban.

His death may bring an end to a shaky indefinite ceasefire the TTP reached with the Pakistan government in June as peace talks mediated by Afghanistan's Taliban progressed.

North Waziristan and other former tribal regions in northwestern Pakistan were long a base for the Pakistani Taliban and other militant groups until the army claimed a few years back that it cleared the region of insurgents. Occasional attacks have continued, however, raising concerns the Pakistani Taliban are regrouping in the areas.

The Pakistani Taliban are a separate group but allies of the Afghan Taliban, who seized power in Afghanistan a year ago as the U.S. and NATO troops were in the final stages of their pullout.

The Taliban takeover in Afghanistan has emboldened the Pakistani Taliban to intensify their demands for stricter enforcement of Islamic laws in Pakistan, release of their members from government custody, and a reduction of military presence in Pakistan's former tribal regions.

Kabul insists it will not allow Afghan soil to be used by militant groups plotting against its neighbours.

Last week, President Joe Biden announced Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri was assassinated in a US drone strike in Kabul, calling into question the Taliban's promise not to harbour militant groups.

The Taliban later issued a carefully phrased statement that neither confirmed Zawahiri's presence in Afghanistan nor acknowledged his death.

The peace talks have angered many in Pakistan, who remember brutal attacks by the TTP -- including on schools, hotels, churches and markets.

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Restoration work at the golden chapel of the Medinet Habu Temple in Upper Egypt has been completed, with full restoration still underway, reports Nevine El-Aref

On the west bank of the Nile opposite the modern town of Luxor in Upper Egypt stands the beautiful Temple of Medinet Habu, with its soaring pylons, shrines, crypts, halls, and extravagant wall paintings and reliefs honouring the New Kingdom king Ramses III and commemorating the ancient Egyptian deity Amun-Re.

Today, restorers wearing white gowns and plastic gloves are standing on wooden scaffolding brushing the marks of time off the temples walls, while others are cleaning the reliefs and revealing original colours hidden for decades under dust, bird deposits, and dirt.

We are rediscovering the temple and its interior decorations that have been concealed for decades under dust, said one restorer while cleaning a column inside the temple. She added that the original colours of the relief had been revealed, making it look as vivid as if it had been painted yesterday.

Returning the temple to its original allure is not easy, Mustafa Waziri, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA), told Al-Ahram Weekly, adding that the restoration project came within the framework of a Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities programme to preserve the countrys ancient Egyptian monuments, especially those in Upper Egypt.

The golden chapel has been restored by skilled Egyptian restorers who worked day and night to complete the task and reveal the original colours of its distinguished wall reliefs, Waziri said, adding that work is continuing to restore the whole temple.

Saadi Awad, head of the restoration and maintenance at the site, said that the restoration project at the temple had started in March this year with the golden chapel where dirt and bird deposits were removed from the walls and reliefs consolidated.

Wall paintings had been cleaned to reveal their original colours, and a new lighting system had been installed.

The Temple of Medinet Habu is one of the most important ancient Egyptian temples and was built in honour of king Ramses III. It was constructed to carry out funeral rituals and to worship the god Amun-Re.

It consists of a primary courtyard with inscriptions about the wars fought by king Ramses III and a second courtyard with inscriptions regarding celebrations. There is a corridor of columns on each side of which are the chapels of the temple devoted to various deities.

One of the most important is the golden chapel, which has been restored and returned to its authentic condition.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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What will the setting up of the Saudi-Egyptian Investment Company this week mean for Saudi investments in Egypt, Gamal Essam El-Din investigates

Saudi Arabias Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced this week that it has set up a company to invest in Egypt.

The $620 billion Saudi sovereign wealth fund said on 5 August that its new investment arm in Egypt, the Saudi-Egyptian Investment Company (SEIC), will target priority sectors including, but not limited to, infrastructure, real estate, healthcare, financial services, food and agriculture, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.

The company will also contribute to enhancing access to investment opportunities in Egypt for PIF and its portfolio companies, as well as the Saudi private sector.

On Tuesday there were media reports that PIF is looking to acquire an 18 per cent stake, worth LE7 billion, in Misr Fertilisers Production Company (MOPCO). The transaction would make PIF the second sovereign Gulf shareholder in the company. The Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund (ADQ) already has a 20 per cent stake in the state-owned company.

PIFs Deputy Governor for Middle East and North Africa Investments Yazeed Al-Humeid said that the launch of SEIC aims to increase Saudi investments in Egypt and support PIFs expansion domestically and globally in line with our 2021-25 strategy.

SEIC will capitalise on lucrative investment opportunities within a number of promising Egyptian sectors.

The launch of SEIC was welcomed in Egypts official and business circles. It comes two months after a visit to Cairo by Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman which saw the signing of 14 investment agreements worth $7.7 billion.

Ahmed Samir, head of Parliaments Economic Committee, said in a statement that the setting up of SEIC reflects the excellent relations that exist between the political leadership of Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

SEIC is a giant investment step forward that compensates for recent falls in foreign exchange revenues, and will generate a large number of new jobs, said Samir. He argued that careful targeting of SEIC investments in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors could help cut Egypts soaring import bill and thus ease the pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

Mohamed Khodeir, former chairman of the General Investment Authority, said the launch of SEIC comes at a crucial time, following Mays announcement by the government that it plans to put $40 billion worth of state-owned assets up for sale to make room for the private sector.

SEIC is placed to make Saudi Arabia the largest Arab investor in Egypt, according to Abdel-Hamid Abu Moussa, head of the Egyptian-Saudi Business Council.

Saudi investments in Egypt already cover 5,300 projects, with a total value of $54 billion, said Abu Moussa. The investments, he continued, reflect the closeness of the relationship between the two countries and the keenness of the Saudi leadership to support Egypt. As evidence of the latter, he cited the Saudi Arabia decision in March to deposit $5 billion with the Central Bank of Egypt in a bid to shore up foreign exchange reserves.

According to a report by the Economic Committee, trade between Egypt and Saudi Arabia increased by 62 per cent in 2021, hitting a record $9.1 billion. Remittances from Egyptian workers in Saudi Arabia also increased by 17 per cent in 2020-21 to reach $11.2 billion.

Fathallah Fawzi, head of the Egyptian Business Association, said in a press interview that SEIC has the option of either buying assets being sold as part of Egypts new privatisation programme, or investing in new projects. He also pointed out that real estate and hotels have been among the most attractive sectors for Gulf investors in Egypt.

Egyptian-Saudi Business Association member Mohamed Guindi argues that cooperation between the Egyptian government and SEIC should focus on agricultural and industrial projects to cover the gap between imports and exports rather than real estate, tourist and shopping mall projects which guarantee quick returns.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Thirteen years ago, at the United Nations Climate Change Conference  the Copenhagen Summit  advanced economies pledged $100 billion to help developing economies meet climate action goals. The figure was subsequently endorsed by the Paris Agreement, a legally binding international treaty adopted by 196 Parties at COP21 in Paris in 2015. It entered into force in 2016 with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The $100 billion is a symbolic figure, UN Climate Change High Level Champion for Egypt Mahmoud Mohieldin told Al-Ahram Weekly. It was presented as a minimum, but so far the minimum has not been met.

Today, says Mohieldin, there are many question marks over the adequacy of the figure. It is estimated that developing countries alone need $2 trillion a year to deal with just one issue, energy transformation.

To help ensure existing pledges are delivered, and push for the implementation of the Paris Agreement, Egypt, which will host COP27, together with the UN Regional Commissioners and the High Level Climate Champions Mohieldin and Nigel Topping, are holding a series of round tables to match carbon-cutting and adaptation projects with financiers.

The first of the meetings took place at the UN Economic Commission for Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, last week. According to Mohieldin, it was the first initiative of its kind to adopt a regional approach to the finance and investment opportunities presented by action on climate change, bringing investors, project owners, and line ministries responsible for climate-related investments together under one roof.

The goal was to match new projects and those that already exist but need to be replicated or scaled up with the finance and investment required, either from development finance institutions or the private sector, he explained.

At last weeks meeting 19 sample projects were presented, chosen from among 150 projects currently being considered. Egypt presented four, with a total cost of $17.4 billion, around 40 per cent of the combined cost of all the projects on the list. With some funding already secured, one project is seeking $11.4 billion in new investments and aims to replace 17 fossil fuel power stations with wind and solar power. A second project involved the construction of two electric light rail lines, one to link the New Administrative Capital to a subway station near Cairo International Airport, the other linking Alexandria to Port Said. The third project aimed to increase crop resilience in the Nile Valley and Delta while the fourth involved the building of six solar-powered desalination plants.

Mohieldin argues that the greater focus on food and energy security caused by the war in Ukraine should be seized on as an opportunity. Everyone now realises that they need to change the way they do business, he says, and interest on the part of development financial institutions and investors in securing food and energy supplies is at an all-time high.

The projects that were presented could help get Africa on the right track. Mohieldin points out that though countries of the south are responsible for a very small proportion of carbon dioxide emissions globally, future development needs to be climate sensitive. We do not need these countries to spur growth by adopting technologies that are harmful to the environment. It is better to get them to do the right thing early rather than regret it later.

The meeting aimed to overcome the separation that has grown between the climate action agenda and the rest of the UNs sustainable development goals (SDGs).

The idea is not just to promote projects that reduce the climate threat, says Mohieldin, but to ensure they also align with other SDGs at country level.

We dont need projects that claim to be in line with climate action but which increase poverty or negatively impact on the welfare of the general public and the inclusive agenda pursued by the SDGs.

Rather, we need investments and projects that push the climate action agenda and have a positive impact on the SDGs overall.

The meeting also sought to guarantee that stakeholders put their money where their mouth is. For years financial institutions have claimed they have the money but do not have the projects. At the same time, line ministries say they have feasible projects but dont have the financing. Last weeks round table, Mohieldin points out, encouraged the various parties to commit.

It discussed finance mechanisms, including debt swaps. A new generation of such swaps not only links debt reduction to specific projects, but also to performance indicators and policy, an approach, says Mohieldin, that helps scale up the opportunities for debt reduction mechanisms and gets more international organisations involved in reducing debt.

Mohieldin is promoting debt reduction and investment over new loans for climate action on the grounds that developing economies are not responsible for the climate crisis. Given that Africa is responsible for just three per cent of global emissions annually, it is unfair, he argues, to ask countries who bear no responsibly for climate change to borrow, even at concessionary rates, to mitigate its impacts.

Further meetings are scheduled, each in a different region. The second meeting will take place in Bangkok, Thailand, hosted by the UN Economic Commission for Asia; the third in Santiago, Chile, hosted by the UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean; the fourth, for the Middle East and Arab countries, will be hosted by the UN Commission for West Asia in Beirut, with a final meeting hosted by the UN Economic Commission for Europe (ECE).

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Roman Catholic Pope Francis recent visit to Canada was an opportunity for the Church to apologise for its role in abuses at Canadian residential schools, writes Azza Radwan Sedky

This July, in an unprecedented and historic trip, Roman Catholic Pope Francis visited Canada to offer apology, seek forgiveness, and hope for healing and reconciliation for the Roman Catholic Churchs role in abuses that historically took place in Canadian residential schools.

Pope Francis called his visit to Canada a pilgrimage of penance. Over six days, he visited the provinces of Alberta and Quebec and the northern territory of Nunavut.

Pope Francis, frail and wheelchair bound, was determined to pursue the apology. He performed blessings and prayer services, sprinkled holy water on route to gatherings where devout followers awaited, delivered open-air masses to thousands, participated in the Lac St Ann Pilgrimage, and listened to songs, drumming, ululating, and the words of indigenous people.

More importantly, he also apologised for how Roman Catholic Church members had co-operated, not least through their indifference, in projects of cultural destruction and forced assimilation promoted by the governments of that time, which culminated in the system of residential schools.

Pope Francis repeated the plea on every stop he made and asked for forgiveness for the abuse of indigenous children at residential schools. I have come to your native lands to tell you in person of my sorrow, to implore Gods forgiveness, healing and reconciliation, to express my closeness and to pray with you and for you, he said.

On another occasion, he said I am sorry. I ask for forgiveness, in particularly for the ways in which many members of the church and religious communities co-operated in projects of cultural destruction and forced assimilation.

To go back a few decades, Canadas residential schools were mandatory and were run by the Canadian government and the Roman Catholic authorities. They were where indigenous children were forcibly taken from their parents under a shameful colonial policy.

Between 1863 and 1998, more than 150,000 indigenous children were taken from their parents arms in Canada and placed in schools that served as concentration colonies. Since the children were not allowed to speak their language or practise their culture, and many of them were mistreated and abused, it was a policy that amounted to cultural genocide. The impacts of such schools reverberate today.

Recent investigations in Canada have uncovered several unmarked burial sites on land surrounding former residential schools. Hundreds, if not thousands, of unmarked childrens graves are being discovered, only to add to the pain and suffering.

Apologies to the indigenous peoples from the Canadian government and the Roman Catholic Church have been coming slowly but surely. In 2008, Stephen Harper, then Canadas prime minister, apologised publicly to Canadas indigenous peoples for the consequences of the residential schools. The Canadian Truth and Reconciliation Commission, established in 2008, acknowledged the gut-wrenching history that indigenous peoples had suffered and vowed to support the sufferers.

In April 2022, a delegation of Canadian indigenous people went to Rome to press the Pope for an apology. Francis expressed his sorrow and shame at the abuse and the lack of respect for indigenous identities, culture, and spiritual values in the residential school system.

On his visit to Canada, and amidst indigenous survivors and their families, he apologised again. However, he did not apologise for the Roman Catholic Churchs institutional role in the system, saying instead it was the work of a few bad actors or individuals. This has led some to believe that his apology was not enough.

According to the Associated Press, the Canadian government made clear that Pope Francis apology to indigenous peoples for abuses in the countrys church-run residential schools didnt go far enough, suggesting that reconciliation over the fraught history is still very much a work in progress.

Murray Sinclair, chief commissioner of Canadas Truth and Reconciliation Commission, said that the Pope had failed to acknowledge the full role of the Church in the residential school system by placing the blame on individuals. He also said that in many instances, it [the churchs role] was not just a collaboration, but an instigation of the brutal actions.

More is expected of the Roman Catholic Church. Indigenous survivors want concrete actions, not only words. They want the turning over of church records of those who died at the schools, the funding of therapeutic programmes for survivors, and the facilitating of investigations of those responsible for the abuses.

To forgive is one thing; to forget is another thing altogether. Some are unable to do either. Indigenous peoples cannot simply shake off the past and get over what happened to them because the pain remains alive, and the past persists as a daunting legacy. For the survivors of the residential schools, no matter how many times an apology is explicitly made it still does not take away the pain. And yet the Popes visit was exceptional and will play an important role in the healing process.

Mary Simon, the governor-general of Canada and the first indigenous person to hold the office, told the Pope that you said that reconciliation is a grace that must be sought. To that I would also add that reconciliation is a grace that must be earned through continuous hard work and understanding, leading everyone to expect more from the church.

She also said, Your Holiness, [survivors] came to hear what you had to say with hearts and minds open, some willing to forgive, some still living with the hurt, but all willing to listen.

Despite the pain and the colonial history that will never be erased, the Popes apology to the survivors of Canadas residential schools is a fundamental step towards reconciliation, and it is worth emulating for other victims around the world and in other places where atrocities took place and remain without closure or penitence.

I would like to see the US apologise for the nuclear bombing of the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which maimed and killed over 250,000 Japanese and Koreans. I would also like to see the Turks acknowledge the Armenian Genocide during World War I and the deaths of thousands in 1915. Better yet, I would like to see the Israelis acknowledge the Palestinians and their rights. Many other unspeakable atrocities and injustices deserve the same penance.

Apology can right the wrong even after hundreds of years, and it brings closure to haunting crises. In this respect, the Popes visit to Canada was indeed a momentous and historic event.

* The writer is a former professor of communication based in Vancouver, Canada.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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While the world is distracted from Africa by the war in Ukraine, Ethiopias conflicts continue to seethe, reports Haitham Nouri

Ethiopias Civil War has been raging for almost two years with no end in sight. Even worse, a looming famine of which the UN has warned threatens the Horn of Africa and the whole of East Africa.

But famine is not the only cause for concern horror in Africas second populous country  after Nigeria  with its over 80 ethnic groups. Little wars have erupted in several other regions, such Gambela, a region bordering South Sudan that saw a major conflict earlier in the year. Gambela is inhabited by the Dinka ethnicity that controls Juba and its army.

Close to Sudan, fighting broke out between the Arab tribes of Benishangul Peoples Liberation Movement and the Addis Ababa government, while in Afar, where many side with the forces of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in his war against the Tigray, civil war is the order of the day.

However, the war between Ahmed and the Tigray in the north remains the fiercest battle in Ethiopia. The Tigray forces include thousands of trained officers who were in the army during the era of late leader Meles Zenawi (1991-2012).

Until 3 November 2020, over 500,000 people had already been killed in that war, according to Belgiums Ghent University, including 50,000-100,000 people who died in the conflict, 150,000-200,000 who died due to famine, and more than 100,000 who lost their lives as a result of lack of medical care.

The Tigray famine is man-made, according to Alex de Waal, a UK expert on the Horn of Africa, in the BBC and the London Review of Books.

A large number of international human rights organisations are fearful of the ethnic cleansing taking place in Tigray. Undoubtedly, both sides have committed atrocities and war crimes, but it was the government forces that had the largest share of those, especially when it comes to the victims of famine and medical neglect.

Over the last 19 months both sides have repeatedly claimed they were ready to negotiate, but showed no real flexibility to that end.

The geographic location and mountainous nature of the Tigray region has helped the group to endure conflicts, while Ahmeds forces have been supplied with Turkish drones which they used to shell Tigrayan cities and markets, resulting in the death of hundreds of civilians, including children.

Meanwhile, Tigrayans are demanding more self-rule and those who committed crimes against civilians be held to account. Ahmed and his government, at the other end, are calling for the removal of Tigrays arms and an acceptance of the legitimacy of the Addis Ababa authorities.

Ahmeds government is now engaged in a battle against the Director of the World Health Organisation Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, a Tigrayan, after he said that nowhere on earth are people more at risk than Tigray.

Despite the fierce campaign waged by the Ahmeds government against Ghebreyesus to tarnish his reputation, multiple international reports support his statement that Tigray is on the brink of a major humanitarian catastrophe.

Its more likely things will get worse in Ethiopia, said Khaled Mahmoud, a researcher on Horn of Africa affairs. If the Addis Ababa government and the Tigray face international pressure, they will not sit together to negotiate.

Mahmoud is not hopeful that any tangible results will be reached through the mediation of the African Union, which he said cant condemn the country that hosts its commission and secretariat.

But the crisis in Ethiopia has not been in the international limelight because of the Russia-Ukraine war. According to Mahmoud, Russia and Ukraine have the attention of major powers in the US and western Europe. No one cares about Ethiopia, northern Nigeria, or South Sudan as long as Europe is facing a complicated crisis, he added.

The clash in Tigray is complicated further by a number of countries siding with Ahmed. Eritrea, whose soldiers were accused of committing atrocities against the Tigray in late 2020 and early 2020, is one. Turkey, which gave the Addis Ababa military equipment that helped it fend off the Tigrays advance towards the Ethiopian capital last year, is another.

Without eliminating the Tigray, the rule of Isaias Afwerki will not stabilise. That is why he is ferociously standing alongside Ahmed, Mahmoud says.

Between 1998 and 2000 Eritrea and Ethiopia engaged in a bloody war that resulted in more than 100,000 deaths. At that time, it was said that the Tigray, under the leadership of Zenawi, were in battle with Eritrea.

Many observers claim that Afwerki wants to eliminate the Tigray and disband the Ethiopian army. It is possible the Tigray will establish their own state in the north, which will mean their affiliated group in Eritrea will join them and Eritrea will be divided, he added.

A US-European-Russian intervention is needed to pressure the concerned parties to accept a political compromise. But this is highly unlikely to take place due to the ongoing Ukraine crisis, Mahmoud noted.

The lingering war in Tigray is encouraging other Ethiopian ethnicities to wage conflicts. Furthermore, the anticipated famine and interference in Ethiopian affairs, together with the worlds undivided attention to the Ukraine war, indicate that peace is farther than ever.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Last weeks Israeli attack on Gaza has made the humanitarian situation in the Strip even more calamitous.

The latest Israeli assault on Gaza, which began last Friday afternoon, has further damaged humanitarian and economic conditions in the Strip, already devastated by recurring Israeli attacks that have targeted thousands of buildings and infrastructure in the area and a blockade that has been ongoing for 15 years.

During the latest military assault, Israel killed 45 Palestinians and destroyed hundreds of residential units.

During its military operation on Gaza, which Israel says targeted the Islamic Jihad group, the Israeli army conducted more than 170 raids in three days. The Strip is less than 365 square km in size and is considered to be one of the most densely populated areas in the world.

On Sunday night, a ceasefire agreement brokered by Egypt entered into force.

Israels military escalation came a year and three months after the last Israeli war against the Gaza Strip, which broke out in May 2021 and lasted for 11 days. During that assault, Israel targeted Palestinian homes and infrastructure in the Strip, creating a dire humanitarian situation that was accentuated further by the blockade imposed on Gaza since 2007.

Israel launched further wide-ranging wars against the besieged Strip at the end of 2009, in 2012, and in 2014, the latter lasting for more than 52 days. These resulted in the death or injury of thousands of Palestinians and the destruction of thousands of buildings.

During this weeks hostilities, Israel said it was targeting Islamic Jihad, although it opened its military operation by shelling apartments in a 15-floor residential building in the Al-Remal neighbourhood in central Gaza, saying it was targeting a military leader in the Al-Quds Brigades, Taysir Al-Jaabari.

The attack left five Palestinians dead.

Israel also bombed a three-storey residential building in the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip without warning its residents under the pretext of targeting leader of the Al-Quds Brigades Khaled Mansour. The assault left Mansour and seven others dead, most of them civilians.

According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, the Israeli raids resulted in the deaths of 45 Palestinians, including 15 children and four women, and 360 injuries. While Israel said it had targeted militants and members of Islamic Jihad, the movement said that 12 of its members had died, which means that 33 of those killed were civilians.

Ismail Dweik was killed in the Israeli attack on the Sheout Camp west of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. Dweik had got engaged to Abeer Harb less than two months before the assault. A day after the ceasefire, Harb stood atop the rubble of the building that had housed the apartment in which they were supposed to live after their marriage.

Harbs tears froze in her eyes, and uttering just a few words she said that her father had returned from Egypt just days earlier to attend her wedding. He had received a dinner invitation at her fiances house for the night the shelling took place but had turned down the invitation because he was exhausted from the trip back from Egypt.

Ashraf Al-Quisi, a street vendor in Rafah, suggested demolishing his small house, in which his eight-member family live, because it obstructed the entry of the heavy machinery needed by civil-defence teams to dig out victims under a building that was bombed in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip.

The alleys of the camp are narrow, obstructing the recovery of the victims from under the rubble.

Al-Quisi told Al-Ahram Weekly that he did not think twice when he knew that tearing down his house could help save the lives of people lying under the rubble.

I suggested demolishing my house so that the equipment could enter to remove the rubble. The most important thing for me was to save the lives of the people down there, because they are my neighbours and friends. I can build the house again, but the loss of lives cannot be made up for, he said.

Civil-defence teams then tore down Al-Quisis house and managed to bring up several dead and injured. Al-Quisi said he did not regret losing his house, as others lost dear ones.

As a group of Palestinians and aid organisations now work to rent a house for Al-Quisi, he joins a long list of Gazans waiting for their houses to be reconstructed after their destruction as a result of repeated Israeli wars on Gaza.

According to the Palestinian Ministry of Housing and public works, during the latest attack the Israeli army completely destroyed 18 housing units and partially destroyed 17, while 1,675 housing units were moderately or slightly damaged.

Nagi Sarhan, deputy to the ministry, announced that it plans to enroll those affected by the latest Israeli attack under the reconstruction grants implemented by Egypt and Qatar in the Gaza Strip. Egypt is building housing projects in the Strip for more than $500 million, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi said after the assault.

Statistics published by the Palestinian Government Information Office indicate that

dozens of agricultural plots were damaged as a result of intensive Israeli raids. The Office said that hundreds of thousands of poultry and livestock were threatened due to the restrictions on the entry of animal feed put in place by Israel after it closed its crossings with the Gaza Strip during the military escalation.

The only power plant in the Gaza Strip stopped working during the Israeli military operation, due to Israels ban on the entry of the diesel fuel needed to operate it, reducing Palestinians in the Strip to four hours of electricity per day.

The Strips hospitals are also threatened. They are already functioning with a limited capacity as a result of the 15-year siege, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.

After the ceasefire, Israel allowed diesel fuel into Gaza, increasing the electricity Palestinians receive per day from four to eight hours, owing to the stations inability to provide the 560 Megawatts of electricity needed by the Strip if the power is to be permanently on.

Some Palestinians obtain electricity from generators, but this is an expensive alternative, albeit necessary during hours in which temperatures are high.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip said that there was a 40 per cent shortage of basic medicines, a 32 per cent shortage of medical equipment, and a 60 per cent shortage of laboratory and blood bank supplies.

The ministry said that the Israeli occupation was preventing the entry of 24 diagnostic x-ray machines and the spare parts needed to maintain broken equipment in emergency and intensive care units and operating theatres in the Gaza Strip.

Unemployment in the Strip is estimated at more than 50 per cent, while among young people aged between 15 and 29 it stands at 62.5 per cent, according to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics.

Some 1.3 million Palestinians out of the 2.1 million in Gaza, or 62 per cent of the population, need food aid, said a report by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) issued in mid-2022.

The report noted that the Israeli blockade raises concern about collective punishments imposed on Palestinians in the Strip and other potential violations of international humanitarian law and international human-rights law.

The majority of Gazans do not have access to the rest of the Occupied Palestinian Territory or the outside world. This limits their access to medical treatment not available in Gaza, as well as to institutions of higher education, employment, and economic opportunities.

The UN report added that 31 per cent of families in Gaza have difficulty paying their childrens school fees due to the scarcity of financial resources.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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No truce seems able to curb Israels history of violence and aggressions against Palestinians, write Mohamed Abu Shaar from Gaza and Ahmed Eleiba from Cairo.

On Tuesday, Israeli forces killed three Palestinians during a raid on a house in the occupied West Bank city of Nablus, including Ibrahim Al-Nabulsi, a commander of Al-Aqsa Brigades, Fatahs armed wing.

Al-Nabulsi is one of the Israeli armys most-wanted men in the West Bank city. Fatah is the main constituent party of the Palestinian Authority and the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) and officially affiliated to President Mahmoud Abbas.

Israeli occupation forces entered Nablus around 7am, surrounded the old city, and engaged in a heavy gunfight with fighters entrenched in the area, Amin Abu Warda, a local journalist and resident of Nablus, was quoted as saying.

The Israeli attack on Nablus came less than 24 hours after a mediated ceasefire in Gaza came into force. Observers believe that though the raid in Nablus might not be a direct breach to the Egypt-mediated ceasefire, it could ignite another spiral of violence.

Israel had launched a series of surprise strikes in Gaza, targeting three leaders of the Quds Brigade, the military wing of the Islamic Jihad in Gaza. They included Taysir Al-Jabari, commander of the movements north Gaza brigade, Abdullah Qaddoum, commander of the antitank missile unit, and Khaled Mansour, commander of the south Gaza brigade. Israel also struck Islamic Jihad military infrastructure. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, the Israeli raids resulted in the deaths of 45 Palestinians, including 15 children and four women, and 360 injuries.

After a three-day-long military confrontation, Egyptian mediators succeeded in brokering a truce between Israel and Islamic Jihad in Gaza that began on 7 August.

Cairo, in an official statement, said that it would continue efforts to restore calm and secure the release of Palestinian detainee Khalil Al-Awawda so he can receive medical treatment. Al-Awawda had been on hunger strike for more than 100 days. He ended the strike only after receiving word he would be released, a decision which Israel almost immediately rescinded. Egypt is also seeking the release of Islamic Jihad commander Bassam Al-Saadi.

Israel has asked for more time to consider the released of the detainees. Some observers in Gaza believe the sustainability of the ceasefire agreement will remain pending until the issue is resolved.

An Egyptian source close to the mediation told Al-Ahram Weekly that Egypt has obtained reassurances from Israel that it will not re-escalate against Gaza or Islamic Jihad.

Addressing an emergency Security Council session on violence between Israel and Islamic Jihad, Egyptian Ambassador to the UN Osama Abdel-Khalek said: Egypt will never abandon its historic responsibilities vis-a-vis the Palestinian people or its efforts [to build] a better future in which peace, security, and stability prevail in the Middle East.

Mondays emergency session was held at the request of China, France, Ireland, Norway, and the UAE. It was originally scheduled to take place behind closed doors, but following pressure from the Palestinian Mission to the UN, China  which currently chairs the Security Council  opened the session to the public.

In mediating an end to the latest Israeli attacks on Gaza, Cairo was attempting to salvage the truce in place between Israel and the Palestinian factions, led by Hamas, since last year.

Israels violations of truce, and its targeting of Islamic Jihad, appear to be part of a divide and conquer against the two largest Palestinian resistance factions, Hamas and the Islamic Jihad, something to which Islamic Jihads Secretary-General Ziad Al-Nakhala alluded when he reaffirmed the solidarity between the two movements.

Mohamed Shalah, spokesman for Islamic Jihads military wing, told the Weekly that his movement had the ability to counter Israels strategy and has lived up to its duty to remain steadfast while fighting a battle of attrition against Israel.

Egyptian officials say they have informed the Israelis that Hamas will not stay on the sidelines for long. It is unclear, however, whether this was Cairos own assessment or a verbatim message from Hamas delivered through Egyptian mediators.

Political analyst Jacky Khoury told the Weekly that Israeli security and intelligence agencies are touting the attacks on Islamic Jihad commanders in their homes and hideouts as an intelligence coup. But the strikes also appear to have had a political motive. Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid and Minister of Defence Benny Gantz will both have been looking to score political points ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Islamic Jihad, for its part, claims it has thrown Israels military calculations into disarray.

The movement can manage this battle with the occupation for months. It has the resources with which it can reply to Israel, said Shalah. He argued that with the Quds Brigades missiles the movement had been able to achieve a balance of terror with Israel, disrupting operations at Ben-Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv and daily life in areas close to Gaza where residents were forced to temporarily leave their homes for central Israel.

The Israeli attacks were to coincide with a visit by Al-Nakhala to Iran, and during a meeting with Al-Nakhala, Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Hussein Salami warned that Israel would pay for the crimes it has committed in Gaza.

While Al-Nakhala downplayed any connection between his visit and the Israeli operation, describing his trip to Iran as routine, Israel seemed determined to underscore a link, with Israeli media likening the targeting of senior Islamic Jihad leaders to Israeli operations against IRGC officials and scientists involved in the Iranian nuclear programme.

While Al-Nakhala has vowed his organisation will wage a battle against Israel with no red lines, echoing recent Hizbullah statements, some observers argue that Iran is actually working to restrain any Islamic Jihad reaction. Tehran has a number of reasons to do so, not least its hope to see negotiations in Vienna over the resumption of the Iranian nuclear agreement make progress.

There is also speculation that the Israeli operation may be part of an attempt to halt the spread of Islamic Jihad from Gaza into the West Bank. Israeli authorities recently arrested Bassam Al-Saadi, leader of the Jenin branch movement, on charges of planning military attacks against Israel.

Israeli is trying to uproot the Islamic Jihad movement by arresting its political leaders, such as Sheikh Bassam Al-Saadi, and assassinating its military leaders, said Shalah.

The Islamic Jihad military spokesman went on to underscore the movements determination to free Al-Saadi.

While Israeli observers believe Israel will have little difficulty releasing Al-Awawda, the release of Al-Saadi is more problematic.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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China may well attack Taiwan, reports Haitham Nouri, but only once Taiwan opts for secession

China has temporarily ended its military drills around Taiwan, which began as a response to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taiwan, according to Western media, although the US doesnt recognise Taipei as an independent state.

Meanwhile, Taiwan announced the commencement of its drills in response to the Chinese exercises, insisting that those had been planned a while ago.

China saw Pelosis visit to Taiwan as a political provocation, an interference in its internal affairs, and a serious violation of the one-China principle and the three Sino-US joint communiques.

US President Joe Biden said US military rejected Pelosis visit to Taiwan. In Taipei Pelosi said her trip was intended to make it unequivocally clear that the US will not abandon Taiwan. We are proud of our enduring friendship, she added. Pelosi stated that we come in friendship to Taiwan, we come in peace to the region.

Following Taiwan, Pelosi, known for her political animosity towards China, visited South Koreas border area between Seoul and North Koreas Pyongyang as well as Japan, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Hours after Pelosi landed in Taipei China announced halting natural sand exports to Taiwan and the suspension of some fish and fruit items from the Asian island. Furthermore, it summoned US Ambassador to Beijing Nicholas Burns to voice its strong protest against Pelosis move.

Since the establishment of the Peoples Republic of China by the leader of the Communist Party Mao Zedong in early October 1949, and the National Republic of China in Taipei around the same period, Beijing has been seeking to annex the island to the mainland. Beijing considers Taiwan part of China, and that its inevitable fate is peaceful union with Beijing.

Chinese President Xi Jinping stated in October 2021 that the Chinese people have a glorious tradition of opposing separatism.

Since the end of the 20th century, China has announced its official policy of one country, two systems, which has been accepted by the majority of world countries. Only 13 countries recognise Taiwan as an independent state, namely the Vatican, Belize, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, the Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Tuvalu, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Even the US, whose president agreed that Washington would defend Taiwan militarily, is officially committed to the one-China principle, and does not recognise Taiwan, despite the economic support represented in the massive Western investment and technology transfer, and military aid in the form of arming the islands army. However, Chinas great capabilities cannot be compared to Taiwans.

The White House took a step back, however, announcing its historical commitment to the one-China, fearing Washingtons economic interests would be compromised.

Since the addition of Taiwan to official Chinese records in AD 239, the rulers of China have regarded the island as part of their vast empire. In 1624 the Dutch occupied the island before it was restored to China in 1661. Taiwan remained under the control of Chinese emperors until the victory of Japan in 1895.

Half a century later, Taiwan returned to China after Japans defeat in World War II, and with the Communists victory in the Chinese Civil War in 1949, Chiang Kai-shek and his loyalists  numbering 1.5 million  fled the mainland to Taiwan to establish a government in Taipei. They controlled the island for decades although they made up only about 14 per cent of its population.

The islands residents requested democratic measures and the first elected Taiwanese president rose to the helm in 2000, when Beijing announced it didnt recognise the median line, which Taiwan regards as its official maritime border with Beijing.

A Western country recognised Taiwan as the representative of China, and Taipei occupied Chinas seat in the Security Council and used its veto right until 1971, when countries began to recognise the government in Beijing as the legitimate representative of China.

This was under pressure from developing countries, which began to recognise the Peoples Republic of China since the early 1950s, such as Egypt, Sudan, and a number of African countries. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, China benefited from the leadership of Egypt, India, and Yugoslavia in the Non-Aligned Movement to help it gain recognition for the newly independent nations in Asia and Africa. The number of countries recognising Taiwan kept dwindling until they finally reached 13.

Relations between Beijing and Taipei began in the 1980s. In the 1990s Taiwan declared the end of the war with the Peoples Republic of China. Beijing responded by declaring its one country, two systems policy, which grants Taipei autonomy if it accepts Chinese unity.

Hong Kong returned to China in 1997 to boost the position of Beijing, which remained committed to its pledge to maintain the privacy of the former British colony.

With the beginning of political pluralism in Taiwan in 2000, Beijing passed the anti-secession law, which recognises Chinas right to use non-peaceful methods against those trying to secede.

Over the past two decades in Taiwan, the Kuomintang Party, which favours unity, and the Democratic Progress Party, in favour of secession from China, have exchanged power, and with them Taiwans relationship with China either improved or became more hostile.

Nonetheless, trade between Beijing and Taipei has recorded $193 billion, which gave rise to division among the Taiwanese. One group believes that their economy is now more dependent on China, while the other group feels that economic cooperation with China would remove the spectre of the use of force.

Many Taiwanese, such as members of the Sunflower Movement, believe that Chinas economic and political influence is growing on the island, increasing its de facto dependency on Beijing. However, the majority of the Taiwanese people prefer the status quo, where Taiwan is not recognised as a country but at the same time not part of China, according to recent polls.

Meanwhile, the Taiwanese are divided between believing they are purely Chinese, or Chinese-Taiwanese. The cultural aspect in China and Taiwan is almost identical. And China will in all likelihood remain peaceful towards Taiwan  unless the latters leaders opt to announce secession.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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EU negotiators are awaiting political decisions in Washington and Tehran after submitting a final text of the nuclear deal with Iran, writes Manal Lotfy

It is decision time in Washington and Tehran, EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell announced as he said a final text of the revised nuclear deal with Iran had been presented to the two capitals after what can be negotiated was negotiated with Iran.

Both Washington and Tehran confirmed that they are examining the revised text of the nuclear deal and that their decisions will be issued in the coming days.

European diplomats stated that the negotiations, which took place in Vienna in July and August, were difficult and detailed and that the final revised text was 25 pages long.

If there is an agreement, the foreign ministers of the EU, US, Iran, Russia, and China are expected to return to Vienna to formally restore the 2015 nuclear accord in what will be a major success for US foreign policy under the Biden administration.

Despite optimism in Brussels, the EU knows that the final decision in Iran and the US will involve domestic factors that may complicate the outcome. EU diplomats are therefore awaiting political decisions on the outstanding issues after negotiators in Vienna agreed that the text thrashed out between Iranian, US, and European representatives over the past few days was the final text and could not be amended further.

European negotiators hope that the new adjustments will address the reservations of the Iranian and US delegations that have hindered reaching an agreement since the talks began 15 months ago.

In a clear warning, Borrell said that the final draft was the last effort to make the negotiations a success. He tweeted on Monday that negotiators used these days of discussions and proximity talks between the US and Iran to fine-tune and address, with technical adjustments, a handful of issues remaining in the text that I have put on the table last July 21, as coordinator of the #JCPOA nuclear deal, a reference to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, the formal name of the deal.

What can be negotiated has been negotiated, and its now in a final text. However, behind every technical issue and every paragraph lies a political decision that needs to be taken in the capitals. If these answers are positive, then we can sign this deal, Borrell said.

Washington and Tehran, which blame each other for the stalemate, entered the talks playing down expectations of a breakthrough. But US Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley, who was also a lead negotiator on the 2015 deal, has been in Vienna over the past few days and has been consulted by the EU team.

For our part, our position is clear: we stand ready to quickly conclude a deal on the basis of the EU proposals, a spokesperson for the US State Department said, suggesting the deals restoration was up to Iran. Another US official described the new draft as the best and only basis on which to reach a deal.

Mikhail Ulyanov, the lead Russian negotiator, was also optimistic, stating that the draft presented by the EU grants Tehran sanctions relief in exchange for restrictions on its nuclear programme.

If there is no opposition to the final text draft, the nuclear agreement will be revived, he said, adding that Russia had supported the amendments to the text proposed by the EU.

But Iran was more circumspect in its response. An Iranian Foreign Ministry official told local news agencies that relative progress was made at the talks, adding that Tehran still had serious concerns about the US failing to meet its commitments.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said in a telephone conversation with Borrell on Monday that any final agreement should meet the rights and interests of the Iranian nation and guarantee sustainable and effective removal of sanctions.

Another Iranian official was quoted by the state news agency IRNA as saying that Tehran is not at a stage to talk about finalising the deal. The official added that Iran will convey its additional views and considerations after more comprehensive discussions in Tehran.

After the talks ended on Monday, Irans Chief Negotiator Ali Bagheri Kani headed to Tehran for consultations, according to Iranian state media.

The 2015 nuclear deal collapsed when former US president Donald Trump unilaterally abandoned it in 2018 and imposed waves of crippling sanctions on Iran. Tehran responded by ramping up its nuclear activity, and it is now enriching uranium close to weapons grade.

US President Joe Biden said he would re-join the deal if Iran agreed to return to compliance with the agreement, but Tehran has insisted it first needs guarantees from Washington that no future administration will be able again to unilaterally withdraw from the deal.

The Biden administration has stressed that it will uphold its obligations under the deal but that it cannot provide a guarantee for future administrations.

A European diplomat told the US Politico website that negotiators in Brussels had worked out economic assurances that will provide Iran with the opportunity to profit financially from the deal even if a new US administration withdraws from the pact again.

One such assurance that negotiators are working on is a temporary continuation of contracts for companies doing business in Iran.

Another major hurdle that has held up a final deal involved Irans request to remove its Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from the US Foreign Terrorist Organisations list.

Biden said that he would keep the IRGC under sanctions for now. The terrorist designation was imposed by Trump in 2019, in addition to numerous other terrorism and human-rights sanctions on Iranian institutions and individuals that are not related to the nuclear programme.

According to a senior EU diplomat, Tehran has agreed to set aside the demand and to discuss the matter in separate talks with Washington.

Iran also insists that UN watchdog the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) must drop a long-standing probe into past nuclear activities before a new nuclear deal.

The new draft text will not answer outstanding questions by the IAEA into the past nuclear programme, an EU official explained. It is a process between Iran and the agency. There is no link between the two.

Iran has been asking the IAEA to close its investigation into the origins of nuclear traces found at three sites. So far, the IAEA has said it has been given no credible explanation by Iran for the traces but has said that its 35-member board of governors will close the inquiry if one is provided.

Iran fears the IAEA may use the inquirys continued existence as a lever to demand wider access to Iranian sites beyond the terms set out in the nuclear agreement.

We are very close, but we are not there yet. There are compromises on many sticking points; therefore, the political leadership in Washington and Tehran will have to decide in the coming days, a European diplomat familiar with the talks told Al-Ahram Weekly.

In my opinion, we are in the best position to reach a deal since the negotiations began last year. I am hopeful, he added.

After the election of Biden, the EU sought to play a positive role in reviving the agreement with Iran. According to European diplomats, the ball moves now from Brussels to Tehran and Washington. Neither side wants to be blamed for the collapse of the deal.

Although segments of the political elite in both Iran and the US do not want to revive the nuclear deal, there are serious fears that any failure will heighten political and military escalation in the Middle East.

The Biden administration will not want to bear the responsibility for a military escalation in the Middle East or the absence of international monitoring arrangements on Iranian nuclear facilities that could open the region to a nuclear arms race.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will not want to waste the opportunity to start a new page with Washington and to improve the economic conditions of millions of Iranians.

A renewed nuclear deal would enable Iran to sell its oil freely on global markets, possibly reaching 2.5 million barrels a day and representing an additional $3 billion per month of revenue on top of existing exports.

A revived deal would also help Tehran regain access to its frozen assets abroad, worth an estimated $100 billion.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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For some time, Al-Qaeda had stopped being the primary target of policy and counterterrorist experts. The war on terrors principal adversary since its attacks on the United States on 9/11 had been largely inactive, particularly in Afghanistan. No longer responsible for any incident of violence, let alone a major terrorist attack, it had been replaced by other more powerful entities. Its leader after Osama bin Laden, the Egyptian Ayman Al-Zawahiri, remained at best a symbolic threat limited to jihadist propaganda videos. But his very existence  albeit in the background  remained a constant reminder of US failures in the war on terror; even in Osama bin Ladens lifetime, Al-Zawahiri had been one of the few Al-Qaeda leaders whose name was synonymous with terrorism.

The fact of Al-Zawahiris assassination on 31 July, 2022 in Kabul through a drone strike is not surprising. It not only presents a victorious moment for the US in terms of targeting Al-Qaeda but also gives credence to the idea of the US opting for over the horizon operations successfully. It has been noted that this is important for providing succour to President Joe Biden, who was facing much criticism at home, and had very low approval ratings. For the US, the operation can also mean continued stress on ensuring that Afghanistan  with all its instability  does not become a haven for extremists. An interest in what happens in Afghanistan through such a high-profile assassination gives the world an indication that the US remains serious about counterterrorism despite its withdrawal from the country. A counterterrorism approach using drone attacks might well be the policy going forward. But the logistics and other details of the attack  such as who was part of the planning and execution  as well as the timing, require more attention.

After all, the US and Afghanistan are attempting to rebuild a broken relationship. As part of the Doha agreement between the US and the Taliban, the latter had agreed not to host or abet terrorist groups, and claimed that Al-Qaeda had no presence in Afghanistan. The February 2020 agreement had included the condition that the Taliban would not allow any of its members or any other individuals or groups, including Al-Qaeda, to use the soil of Afghanistan to threaten the security of the United States and its allies. The US had also departed the country on the pretext that Al-Qaeda had been defeated.

For the Taliban, this presents a very complex situation. The group is already struggling to consolidate power at home and gain recognition and credibility internationally. Although security has improved in the country, the growing presence of transnational terrorist groups like the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) is putting immense pressure on the group. Since the Taliban assumed power in August 2021, there has been a major spike in attacks by the ISKP domestically and against Afghanistans neighbours, primarily Pakistan, followed by Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. In the case of Pakistan, the rise in Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) activity and attacks against Pakistani security personnel independently as well as in collaboration with the ISKP has been of particular concern, as has the recent alliance between the ISKP and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM)/the Turkestan Islamic Party (TIP) which raises serious doubts about the Talibans CT assurances, their ability and willingness to deal with transnational terrorist groups operating within the country. For Pakistan, this remains a major issue, as a reliable Taliban government will go a long way to ensure stability and peace in the region.

There is immense pressure on their government to deliver, and perhaps most importantly, ensure that no threats from terrorist groups should emanate from its soil. That Al-Zawahiri was found and killed in Kabul means that this pressure is likely to increase. Indeed, it puts the very willingness and ability of the Taliban to prevent extremism into question. Although regional countries are engaging with the group, there is a sense of frustration among Afghanistans neighbours over the Talibans inability to deal with terrorist groups. If the Taliban are unable to fulfil their promises of reform, and of delivering on counterterrorism, it will be very difficult for regional countries to engage with them, let alone push for recognition internationally. In fact it may very well lead to disengagement, which the group cannot afford.

It remains to be seen whether the killing of Al-Zawahiri provides some new means of communication between the US and the Taliban, or if it leads to further disengagement. After all, on the one hand, it might offer some leverage to the US in its relationship with the Taliban or, on the other, it could lead to alienation due to allegations of housing extremist groups and completely destroy the possibility of bilateral engagement.

In Pakistan, the incident has led to an energetic debate on Pakistans role in this operation, and multiple statements and guesses have been provided. The use of airspace or intelligence support are two of the most important areas in which the Pakistani role has been suggested. Pakistan has officially distanced itself from any role in the operation, and simply made statements condemning terrorism. But some have argued that, given Pakistans own troubled ties with the US, its involvement in the attack is plausible. As it is, the interior minister of the country has categorically denied that the drone that killed Al-Zawahiri flew from Pakistani territory. Moreover, it has put into question Islamabads relationship with the Taliban, and whether the Taliban can prove to be reliable partners in the ongoing negotiations between Islamabad and the TTP, which have so far not delivered.

While Al-Qaeda has been struggling to remain relevant and the main threat of terrorism comes from IS or its ISKP chapter, some analysts suggest that Al-Qaeda was working with the Taliban to combat the influence of ISKP in Afghanistan. As for what the assassination of Al-Zawahiri means for the group, there are more questions than answers. It could lead to violent reaction from dormant members, or its members could switch allegiance to the IKSP, or the chapter of Al-Qaeda may perhaps finally be well and truly over. In the short term, there is also the question of how this strike  and the changes it begets  will affect Al-Qaedas relationship with the Taliban.

While the Taliban have accused Washington of violating the Doha Agreement, the fact that Al-Zawahiri was killed on Afghan soil has without a doubt put the onus on the group to deliver on all fronts. The Taliban dont seem to realise that if they do not fulfil their commitments, the appetite for engaging with them will diminish.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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For me the story begins years ago when I was in the US. My children had asked me to buy them the latest iPhone model, an errand that I had no objection to whatsoever. I loved visiting the Apple store in downtown Boston, with its sparkling glass facade, its bright white interior and its youthful staff filled with the exuberance of a new age. Unfortunately, when I arrived I was told that they had run out of the model I was looking for. I had never encountered this type of situation before in the US. Fortunately, they told me to come back the following morning.

When I returned at 6:00 am, I found a queue that must have been at least a mile long. I knew that if I stood in that line, by the time my turn came the model I wanted would be out of stock again. Later, when I inquired about the source of the problem, I made an amazing discovery. Apple, the very emblem of high-tech ingenuity, actually has its products manufactured in China. Yet it is assumed they are made in the USA, which is where people stood in mile-long queues outside the main outlets of the firm (now worth some $2.5 trillion) in order to buy those products. It was at that point that my mind turned from my iPhone purchasing mission to another problem: the new composition of international relations in general and US-Chinese relations in particular.

The many interrelated complexities of that subject have become a major focus of research and study for international relations experts. Washington and Beijing are locked in what might best be termed a bond between enemy siblings. They are siblings by virtue of an unparalleled bilateral trade connection. China exports $400 billion worth of goods to the US and the latter exports $127 billion of goods to the former. China has essentially become the US industrial backyard and it is a supply chain linchpin. The production and marketing cycle for both high-tech and conventional goods would fall apart without it. Moreover, by dint of a balance of trade in its favour, China has such a large reserve of dollars that it has become a partner in setting that currencys international value.

I could probably use up the rest of this column enumerating the many ways these two countries are connected. But they are not sufficient to dispel their latent mutual antagonism. In World War II, China and the US were allies. Then, following the victory of the Communists led by Mao Tse Tung in 1949, they began to eye each other as strategic and ideological enemies. The hostility was articulated in the Korean War in the 1950s. Yet, by the 1970s, Washington began to take a different view. It believed a rapprochement with China would serve as a counterweight to the Soviet Union. This led to US President Richard Nixons historic visit to China on 1972 and an historic agreement to normalise relations. The thaw gained impetus with the economic reforms introduced by Deng Xiaoping who took over as Chinese Communist Party chairman and began to implement market economy principles. By the 1990s and the end of the Cold War, political and business communities in the US and the American public at large saw China as a trade partner whose products had begun to dominate US markets. With the spread of globalisation under president Bill Clinton, China and its rapidly increasing share of the world market became an important part of the phenomenon. After Chinas entry into the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in 2001, the Chinese-US partnership had become deep and global. Ten years later, China was the second largest economy in the world after the US.

Nevertheless, US-Chinese relationship seemed bent on being the exception to the general rule in international relations that mutual dependency gives root to peace and cooperation. The US never shed its strong suspicion that a country ruled by a communist party could never become a messenger of peace with others. Beijing never lost its deep seated belief that a global superpower would work to increase its hegemony and interventions in the affairs of others. Still, the bilateral relationship and mutual dependency continued to grow despite the doubts and suspicions. But then, the US came to fear Chinas competition. President Donald Trump tried to penalise US firms that invested in China and levy taxes and customs on Chinese products. He also pulled the US out of the Paris Climate Accord in which Washington and Beijing were key partners in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. After all, they were responsible for producing the lions share of them. He then blamed China for Covid, even calling it the Chinese virus. Then President Biden stepped in to change gears and shift the antagonism into an ideological mode. Soon after coming to power he drew a line in the sand between democratic and autocratic countries, with China falling in the latter camp. Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi makes her appearance in this context.

What actually unfolded was a case of American schizophrenia towards China. On the one hand, the White House had to keep its relations with Beijing steady due to the exigencies of the war in Ukraine. It therefore kept its channels of communication open with fairly regular contacts at the head-of-state level. On the other hand, it sustained its negative classification of the Chinese political system, with the underlying tensions that perpetuated. The attempt to reconcile the contradiction took the form of talks in the framework of efforts to manage the rivalry between the two countries and discuss the impacts of the Russian war against Ukraine on regional [ie European] and international security. During those talks, the US referred back to the Shanghai Communique of 50 years ago, which had established the basis of US-Chinese relations since. President Biden acknowledged that relations had reached a critical juncture that would determine the shape of the world in the 21st century, and stressing that the US did not seek a new cold war with China. Accordingly, he said, the US does not seek to change the Chinese regime or to activate its alliances in Europe and Asia against Beijing. He also stressed that the US did not support the independence of Taiwan and had no intention of going to war over it.

This, at least in part, was driven by the need to work together on vital global issues such as climate change, preventing nuclear dissemination and maybe advancing the cause of peace in Europe, according to conditions the US would accept. Then along came Pelosi, who represents another, more fundamentalist faction of the Democratic Party. Like her predecessors in office, she wanted to go on record proclaiming a stance in favour of democratic Taiwan versus China. So now were waiting to see the result of the test as to whether Washington will truly stick to its word regarding one China.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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NCHR President Moushira Khattab inaugurated the panel, together with House of Representatives Human Rights Committee Head Tarek Radwan and Culture, Media and Antiquities Committee Head at the Senate Mahmoud Mosallam.

Human development researcher Magdi Abdel-Hamid, NCHR Civil and Political Rights Committee Head Mohamed Anwar Al-Sadat and the present writer  in her capacity as NCHR Cultural Rights Committee head  also participated.

The three sessions and round table discussions saw valuable interventions from parliamentarians, authors, critics, actors, producers and scholars from various disciplines, with the intentional conflation of academic and creative freedom affirming the notion that creativity  in the sense of innovation and renewal  need not be confined to a technically creative endeavour. In this piece I want to present the main points made by the participants, leaving the recommendations of the panel for a new article next week.

The participants tackled some of the obstacles facing freedom of creativity and academic freedoms, such as the multiple censorship authorities, the persecution of artists and innovators through parliamentary motions, lawsuits or social media smear campaign as well as the rote learning that continues to be the core of the education system. Dominating debates was the question of who is responsible for narrowing the space of cultural and academic freedom, with three principal positions.

The first is that the Salafi orientation of the whole society, by exerting continuous pressure to tighten censorship and restrict freedoms under the slogan protecting the nations constants, is behind the decline. The battle for freedom, it was noted, dates back long before the 1970s  the period generally believed to have seen a return to conservatism  with such figures as Ali Abdel-Raziq and Taha Hussein courting controversy in the so called Liberal Era. Some participants agreed with this view but others argued against generalisation, claiming that, rather than the whole of society, it is a particular, well funded political current with a loud voice and the ability to swarm social media that is behind the phenomenon.

The second position is that Egypt has always been a top-down society, with each of us holding a pyramid inside them. The bottom line is that, if the government wants something done that thing is done. And yet the states progressive stance on womens rights is many steps ahead of society. The state has two instruments: education, which can combat fossilisation of thinking and recycle old ideas; and the law, which can deter incursion on public and private freedoms by those who consider themselves moral gatekeepers. As for the third position, it is that the responsibility must be shared equally between society and the state, since it would not be objective to hold either party fully responsible for the decline of creative freedom.

The material returns of creativity were repeatedly mentioned in connection with their moral benefits, since the arts help with the Egyptian citizens psychological makeup and, in the form of soft power, helps to implement Egyptian foreign policy and reinforce Egypts regional influence. If one of the main objectives of the Structural Reform Programme 2021-2024 is turning to high added value industries and services, which are characterised by intensive technological and knowledge components, then the realisation of that objective hinges on unleashing innovation and encouraging the production of creative ideas capable of competing in world markets.

In other words, regaining external demand for Egypts exports of human resources, cultural and academic services requires the enjoyment of a comparative advantage and a degree of individuality in comparison with other nations. This in turn calls for rethinking freedom of creativity and academic freedoms taking the financial variable into account. We should never forget that remittances of Egyptians working abroad are, together with the Suez Canal revenues, the most important sources of foreign currency in the light of the problems facing tourism globally. Moreover, paying more attention to cultural industries, the quality of education and scientific research will help to generate job opportunities in the local market and this will help to balance the large-scale urban renaissance Egypt has been seeing in the last few years.

A third major issue is where should we start in terms of liberating cultural and academic creativity? What are the mechanisms that should be applied in order to face Egyptian cultural and academic decline? Leading to the panels recommendations, this will be the subject of my second article.

* The writer is professor of political science at Cairo University.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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The first of a series of regional roundtables on climate change took place this week with a view to gathering recommendations and listing projects in the run-up to the COP27 Conference in Sharm El-Sheikh.

The presidency of the UN COP27 Climate Conference, in collaboration with the UN and climate leaders, has taken the unprecedented initiative of arranging for five regional forums to meet in August and September to prepare for the conference that takes place in Sharm El-Sheikh in November.

The first of these was held last week in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. Organised by the UN Economic Commission for Africa, the activities took place over three days and were attended by 400 representatives of African governments, the private sector, financial institutions, consultative bureaus, and civil society organisations.

The initiative aims to furnish practical proof that climate-change mitigation and adaptation efforts can provide solutions to current global crises, especially rising food and energy prices, and that funding climate action can offer excellent opportunities for investment. Fighting climate change does not have to come at the expense of heavier debt burdens on developing countries that are already reeling beneath large amounts of debt.

The developing nations have been severely disadvantaged by an approach that reduces sustainability to lowering greenhouse-gas emissions and carbon-pricing and that limits the amount of funding they need for mitigation and adaptation efforts to just $100 billion a year. That is the amount the developed nations pledged in Copenhagen in 2009, and they have yet to meet this commitment in full.

It is on a par with the innumerable pledges made by various government, business, and financial sectors, which have become proficient in producing buzzwords about making the land green and the oceans blue again and bringing the planets temperature down. Then come the scientific reports warning that the world is way off target and that the goal of keeping the planets temperature from exceeding 1.5 degrees Celsius higher than it was at the beginning of the First Industrial Revolution may be getting out of reach.

The African countries as a whole account for no more than three per cent of the worlds greenhouse-gas emissions. This is not because they have suddenly adopted technologies compatible with the 2015 Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Rather, the low figure speaks of a continent-wide tragedy of declining production and consumption rates while prevailing technologies remain largely unchanged.

Surely, the worlds poorest continent should not be expected to remain mired in a degree of poverty in which half of its people are deprived of electricity and clean energy. Out of every four persons in the world without electricity, three are Africans. While the EU has justified its own use of natural gas as a transitional energy source, African countries are greeted with frowns for wanting to use their natural gas resources, even though this would not increase their emissions by more than half a percentage point, bringing their contribution to total harmful emissions to 3.5 per cent.

To make the point clearer, we need only compare the African to the developed nations in terms of per capita share of carbon emissions. For example, the per capita carbon emissions of Chad, Niger, and the Central African Republic do not exceed ten per cent of a single ton of carbon. This is 160 times less than the per capita share in the US and Australia and 55 per cent less the rate in France and the UK.

This is not about a contest over who takes first prize in harming the climate. The idea is to promote a process of inclusive and balanced growth for developing countries that engages technologies compatible with achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2015 Paris Agreement and that ensures the equitable and efficient management of energy. Without such a process, the developing nations will achieve neither growth nor development.

These priorities were translated into themes for the sessions and workshops held at the first African Regional Roundtable on Climate Initiatives, the title of which was Towards COP27: African Regional Forum on Climate Initiatives to Finance Climate Action and the SDGs. They included equitable energy transition, food security, carbon markets, digital transformation, the blue economy, and water and urban management.

In addition to discussing general policy frameworks for the investments needed in these six vital areas, the participants reviewed 19 concrete projects out of a list of 140 proposals submitted by African governments, institutions, and NGOs, as well as the African Union (AU), the African Development Bank, and various investment banks operating in the continent.

The selection was made by a working group consisting of representatives from the Boston Consulting Group, the African Climate Pioneers Group, and the Glasgow Net-Zero Alliance, commonly known as Gfanz and that brings together 450 organisations representing $130 trillion in assets that the alliance oversees or advises on. A major feature of the projects is that 70 per cent of them have an African regional dimension with benefits transcending the borders of the country hosting the investment.

Renewable energy projects, green hydrogen, and carbon emissions containment and reduction technologies received the lions share of attention in the discussions at the African Roundtable. These also show promising investment opportunities in collaboration with three investment banks that have already expressed interest in taking the projects forward to the planning, timetabling, and budgeting phases. The UN Economic Commission for Africas economic committee, headed by Vera Songwe, will follow up on the pledges in this regard and announce progress at the COP27 Conference in Sharm El-Sheikh.

More generally, the discussions at the African Regional Roundtable underscored the need for the forthcoming Climate Conference to prioritise previously made binding pledges and commitments. Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukri, president-designate of the COP27, affirmed in his speech that this would indeed be one of the conferences priorities. Other African officials stressed the importance of ensuring that climate measures are in line with the SDGs. UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohamed pointed out that the measures should simultaneously address current crises, especially soaring food and fuel prices.

As I said in my speech at the closing session, the event had brought together participants who would rarely meet under one roof otherwise. I spoke of the need for collaboration and partnerships in fostering and funding development projects. I identified isolated islands: some with access to willing and sufficient funding sources but without projects that show the feasibility that merits funding, and others responsible for investing in production and infrastructure that announce opportunities for development projects in this or that field but then are unable to find serious funders.

The solution is to build bridges and close the information gaps between these disparate islands, making it possible for supply to meet demand. Then intentions can then be put to the test and carried out. As a folk saying in Egypt goes, heres the camel, and heres the rider. Only when you bring the two together can you assess the credibility of advertised skills and prowess. In this case we might think of the camel riders as being the authors of projects proposed in energy, infrastructure, agricultural production, and water resource management, for example, and the camels as the much-needed funding sources to make them work.

Unfortunately, the huge amount of investments required dwarves the modest Copenhagen pledges. The $100 billion per year pledged then barely meets five per cent of the developing nations actual needs for climate mitigation and adaptation. Clearly this situation demands a review and a search for additional public and private financing.

In the process, it is important to bear in mind the need to avoid encumbering developing nations with further debt as much as possible. This means prioritising investment, grants, and facilitated loans as a last resort. It also means optimising opportunities to promote innovative and integrated financing, debt-reduction in exchange for climate action, and the development of carbon markets commensurate to the needs of developing countries. All such topics were discussed at the roundtable sessions.

The winning horse (or camel) in the climate race will be the one that invests in people and their skills in the technology sectors, especially digitisation and digital infrastructure. The interdependence between technology and sustainability is now self-evident. It is particularly essential to minimising the cost of producing energy from renewable sources and developing means to reduce carbon emissions. This in turn requires an integrated strategy that capitalises on the advances of the digital age.

The African Regional Roundtable with its vibrant discussions and exciting proposals was a very fruitful experience. In the coming weeks, four other regional forums will follow hosted by the UN Social and Economic Commission regional headquarters in Bangkok (Asia), Santiago (Latin American and the Caribbean), Beirut (West Asia), and Geneva (Europe). The results of these and their recommendations and lists of projects they nominate for investment will be presented at the COP27 Conference in Sharm El-Sheikh, which will work to promote the implementation of the pledges.

* An Arabic version of this article appeared on Wednesday in Asharq Al-Awsat.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Mahmoud Bakr spoke to German Ambassador in Cairo Frank Hartman about cooperation between Egypt and Germany on climate change and protecting the environment

German institutions have been working closely with Egyptian partners on a range of projects to improve Egypts infrastructure and reduce the emissions of the greenhouse gases that lead to climate change. They have also been working with Egyptian schools and civil-society organisations to raise awareness of climate change and to educate the public about adaptation and mitigation measures.

In the run-up to this Novembers UN Conference of the Parties (COP27) meeting on climate change in Sharm El-Sheikh, German Ambassador in Cairo Frank Hartman explained his countrys commitment to working with Egypt on climate change and the environment.

What is the state of play in German-Egyptian cooperation on the environment and in tackling climate change? What have been the most important initiatives implemented by the Cairo Climate Talks with the support of the German embassy?

Germany and Egypt have a long history of working together with regard to the environment and climate change; we are supporting Egypt in various fields to achieve sustainable green modernisation with the overall aim of improving living conditions for the Egyptian people.

Through our implementation organisations GIZ and KFW we have been engaged in numerous projects from hydropower and solar and wind energy plants to waste management for many years. President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz have recently agreed on intensifying cooperation in the field of green hydrogen, which is another proof of the great potential of German-Egyptian energy cooperation.

Moreover, there are, of course, many German companies with a strong focus on sustainable solutions and future-proof technologies. One of the most outstanding examples is the high-speed electric train system to be built in Egypt by Siemens Mobility, as it marks a major step for the local infrastructure and will also help reduce emissions by up to 85 per cent compared to diesel locomotives.

Fighting climate change is not only a task of development and economic cooperation, but it is also a social and educational challenge. Therefore, our partners from DAAD, the German Academic Exchange Service, the Goethe Institute, and our political foundations are very active in this field as well. Through the Cairo Climate Talks (CCT) we have established a unique platform to exchange experience, raise awareness, and foster cooperation between policymakers, business, the scientific community, and civil society.

Founded in 2011, CCT has now organised over 80 events. With our newest format, CCT Junior, we aim to educate children and teenagers in particular about climate change and climate protection.

What are your expectations regarding the outcomes of the COP27 meeting to be held this November in Sharm El-Sheikh? Will the German embassy or other German organisations play a role at COP27?

As German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said during her opening speech at the Petersberg Climate Dialogue recently, climate change is the most serious international security issue of our time. It not a task for the future: it is an issue that must be tackled now, and it does not stop at international borders.

Therefore, the COP27 meeting is absolutely crucial: we all have to double down on our efforts and commitment to achieve the goal of keeping global warming within the 1.5 degree range in order to reduce the impact and damage of climate change. We stand ready to support Egypt in its role as president of the COP meeting in reaching these goals.

Against the background of the current food and energy crisis caused by the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine, Germany is even more committed to fulfilling its share and to making sure that the industrialised countries assume their responsibilities. This means finally reaching the $100 billion goal for climate financing and doubling collective adaptation finance from 2019 levels.

But money alone will not solve the problem. Therefore, we hope to see ambitious national action plans. We also believe in the necessity and advantage of close exchanges between policy-makers and other actors such as civil society, economic players, and scientists. The German pavilion at the COP27 meeting will be a meeting ground to make such exchange possible.

What is the aim of the Eco-Heroes initiative and how were the participating schools selected?

We are convinced that climate change can only be tackled successfully if each and every person makes a contribution in their daily lives. Education and awareness are the prerequisite for this. With projects like the Eco-Heroes initiative, we want to encourage young people to recognise possibilities of climate action in their own environment and give them a chance to develop their own solutions and put them to the test.

Students from PASCH (Schools: Partners for the Future) schools from all over Egypt were invited to participate in this initiative, and we have received over 300 applications. I was more than impressed with the ideas the students presented. As they are the ones who will have to deal with the consequences of the mistakes of our generation, the least we can do now is to listen to them and take them seriously.

I can assure you that it is worth it. I myself have learned a lot from the young creative and ambitious minds behind the outstanding ideas presented within the Eco-Heroes initiative.

What is your view of the future given the impacts of climate change?

The severe consequences of climate change that we are already seeing and feeling all around the globe make it more than obvious that time is pressing. There is no alternative: we have to act, and we have to do it now. I can only hope that people and policy-makers will finally come to the conclusion that joint action on this is more important than any short-term enforcement of individual interests.

Crises like the fallout of the Russian aggression in Ukraine are not making this massive global task any easier. But as a firm believer in multilateralism and in human inventiveness and progress, I am convinced that it is still possible to mitigate the disastrous effects of climate change and steer towards a livable future for everyone.

What really gives me hope is the innovativeness and determination of young people, as demonstrated so well by our young Eco-Heroes here in Egypt.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 11 August, 2022 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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At least three Ukrainian civilians were killed and 23 others were wounded by Russian shelling in 24 hours, including an attack not far from a Russian-occupied nuclear power plant, the office of Ukraine's president reported Tuesday.

The Russians fired over 120 rockets from Grad multiple rocket launchers at the southern town of Nikopol, which is across the Dnieper River from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Dnipropetrovsk Gov. Valentyn Reznichenko said. Several apartment buildings and industrial facilities were damaged, he said.

Ukraine and Russia accused each other in recent days of shelling the nuclear plant, which is the largest one in Europe, and increasing the risks of a nuclear accident.

In his nightly video address, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy invoked the 1986 disaster at the Chernobyl nuclear plant in Ukraine, which at the time was a Soviet republic. He called for new sanctions against Russia ``for creating the threat'' of another nuclear disaster.

``We are actively informing the world about Russian nuclear blackmail - about the shelling and mining of the Zaporizhzhia NPP facilities,`` Zelenskyy said. ``Russia will not pay attention to words and concerns...The Chernobyl disaster is an explosion in one reactor; the Zaporizhzhia NPP is six power units.''

The Kremlin claimed Monday that Ukraine's military was attacking the plant and urged Western powers to force Kyiv to stop the activity.

A Russian-installed official in the partially occupied Zaporizhzhia region said an air defense system at the plant would be reinforced in the aftermath of last week's shelling. Evgeny Balitsky, the head of the Kremlin-backed administration, told Russian state TV Tuesday that power lines and damaged blocks of the plant were restored.

``The plant is operating normally, but, of course, with an increased degree of security,'' Balitsky said.

A Ukrainian counteroffensive and Russian defensive actions in occupied areas has increasingly drawn firepower to southern Ukraine.

After failing to capture Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, early in the war, the Russian military focused its strength on trying to seize all of the country's eastern Donbas region. Pro-Moscow separatists have fought Ukrainian forces in the region for eight years and control some territory as self-proclaimed republics.

The British Defense Ministry said Tuesday that Russian forces had made the most progress in the past month in moving toward the town of Bakhmut - an advance limited to about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).

``In other Donbas sectors where Russia was attempting to break through, its forces have not gained more than 3 km during this 30-day period; almost certainly significantly less than planned,'' the U.K. ministry said.

However, the ministry cautioned that despite the attention required in southern Ukraine, Russia had maintained attacks on Ukrainian positions in the east.

The governor of eastern Ukraine's Donetsk province, Pavlo Kyrylenko, said the Russians were trying to press their offensive in several areas. Kharkiv, the country's second-largest city, came under the Russian shelling four times over the past 24 hours, and some city infrastructure was damaged.

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President Joe Biden formally welcomed Finland and Sweden joining the NATO alliance Tuesday as he signed the instruments of ratification that delivered the US's formal backing of the Nordic nations entering the mutual defense pact, part of a reshaping of the European security posture after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

``In seeking to join NATO, Finland and Sweden are making a sacred commitment that an attack against one is an attack against all,`` Biden said at the signing as he called the partnership the ``indispensable alliance.''

The US became the 23rd ally to approve NATO membership for the two countries. Biden said he spoke with the heads of both nations before signing the ratification and urged the remaining NATO members to finish their own ratification process ``as quickly as possible.''

The Senate last week approved the two, once-non-aligned nations joining the alliance in a rare 95-1 vote that Biden said shows the world that ``the United States of America can still do big things'' with a sense of political unity.

The countries sought out NATO membership earlier this year to guarantee their security in the wake of Russian President Vladimir Putin's offensive in Ukraine.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization's rules require the consent of all of its 30 existing members before Finland and Sweden can officially accede into the alliance, which is expected in the coming months.

The candidacies of the two prosperous Northern European nations have won ratification from more than half of the NATO member nations in the roughly three months since the two applied. It marks one of the speediest expansions of the pact of mutual defense among the United States and democratic allies in Europe in its 73-year history.

US State and Defense officials consider the two countries net ``security providers,'' strengthening NATO's defense posture in the Baltics in particular.

Finland is expected to exceed NATO's 2% gross domestic product defense spending target in 2022, and Sweden has committed to meet the 2% goal.

Sweden and Finland applied to join NATO in May, setting aside their longstanding stance of military nonalignment. It was a major shift of security arrangements for the two countries after neighboring Russia launched its war on Ukraine in late February.

Biden encouraged their joining and welcomed the two countries' government heads to the White House in May, standing side by side with them in a display of US backing.

The US and its European allies have rallied with newfound partnership in the face of Putin's military invasion, as well as the Russian leader's sweeping statements this year condemning NATO, issuing veiled reminders of Russia's nuclear arsenal and asserting Russia's historical claims to territory of many of its neighbors.

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The supply of Russian oil to three European countries through Ukraine has been halted as the transit payment cannot be processed due to sanctions, Russian firm Transneft said Tuesday.

"On August 4, the delivery of Russian oil via the territory of Ukraine was halted," the oil pipeline operator said in a statement, adding that this had affected deliveries to Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic through the southern leg of the Druzhba pipeline.

The company said the Ukrainian side stopped the oil transport "due to not receiving funds for these services".

However, deliveries to Poland and Germany via Belarus were continuing "as usual", Transneft added.

A spokesman for Slovak refinery Slovnaft confirmed that the transportation of oil through the Druzhba pipeline had been suspended for several days.

But he said that the company's Bratislava refinery was operating and supplying the market.

"According to our information, there were technical problems at the bank level in connection with the payment of transit fees from the Russian side," Anton Molnar said in a statement.

Linda Vaskovicova, head of the Slovak oil transporter Transpetrol CEO's office, told the local TASR newswire: "We can confirm that the transportation of oil through the Druzhba pipeline through the territory of the Slovak Republic is currently suspended."

She said that the authorities were "dealing with the situation."

Molnar also said that Slovnaft had initiated talks with Ukraine and Russia about the possibility of Hungarian refinery MOL and Slovnaft paying the transit fees, which would enable the resumption of oil supplies.

Since President Vladimir Putin sent troops to Ukraine, Washington and Brussels have pummelled Moscow with unprecedented sanctions, cutting Russia off from international financial institutions.

The EU has looked to reduce its dependence on Russian energy resources and has agreed to ban more than two-thirds of Russian oil imports.

The United States banned Russian oil and gas days after the start of Russia's military campaign on February 24.

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The plane received a water salute after arriving at Mitiga airport coming from the Red Sea resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh.

The flag carrier plans to operate weekly flights through 11 October between the two cities to promote Libyan tourism in Egypt, according to Chairman of EgyptAir Amr Abul-Enein earlier this week.

The flag carrier will operate the weekly flights using Boeing B737-800 aircraft, which are capable of carrying up to 154 passengers, added Abul-Enein.

Libya is one of the top tourism exporters to Egypt especially among Arab countries. In 2019, the number of tourists arriving in Egypt from Libya totaled around 760,000, according to Euromonitor International data.

In September last year, Egypt and Libya resumed flights from Tripoli to Cairo after a seven year hiatus over turmoil in Libya. The two countries also reactivated the direct flight service between Cairo and Benghazi in April this year.

Egypt, which counts on tourism revenues as a vital source of foreign currency, has announced plans to explore alternative tourism markets in light of the Russia-Ukraine war ongoing since February.

The Ukraine-Russia conflict has dealt Egypts tourism sector a heavy blow with both Russian and Ukrainian markets being among the largest markets for tourism to Red Sea areas in Egypt.

The tourism sector in Egypt was also affected by the coronavirus impacts with the number of tourists reportedly dropping to 3.7 million in 2020 from 13 million in 2019 before rising to 8.2 million in the first 9 month of the FY 2021/22, according to Central Bank of Egypt data.
The Pentagon has announced $1 billion in security assistance for Ukraine, the single largest package of weapons and equipment from its inventories since Russia's February invasion.

The latest assistance package includes more ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), 1,000 Javelin anti-tank missiles, artillery ammunition and 50 armored medical treatment vehicles, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl told reporters on Monday.

Asked why HIMARS ammunition was included without additional systems, Kahl told reporters that the 16 HIMARS already sent by the Biden administration was "quite a lot" in terms of Pentagon assessments of Ukrainian territorial defense needs.

"Our assessment actually is that the Ukrainians are doing pretty well in terms of the numbers of systems, and really the priority right now is making sure that they have a steady stream of these GMLRS," he said, referring to the Lockheed Martin precision munitions fired from both the HIMARS and the MLRS M270 family of launchers provided to Ukraine by British forces.
Netflix's upcoming Korean series "Narco-Saints" is set for release next month in time for Chuseok, Korea's biggest holiday of the year.

The crime thriller revolves around a man who joins a secret mission to capture a Korean drug lord operating in the South American country of Suriname.

The series is already creating buzz for its star-studded cast, which includes veteran actors Ha Jung-woo and Hwang Jung-min, along with Park Hae-soo, who shot to global fame after starring in Netflix's mega hit Korean series "Squid Game," and Taiwanese actor Chang Chen, who is famous for his appearances in films like "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" and "The Grandmaster."

"Narco-Saints" will be available for streaming on Sept. 9, the first day of the long Chuseok weekend.
Mellow Korean tipple soju has become hugely popular among Japanese consumers in their 20s and 30s.

A staffer at Hite Jinro said that sales in Japan have surged more than 10 times compared to 2018 and 2019. Japan's top three convenience stores 7-Eleven, Family Mart and Lawson are all featuring Korean soju on their stalls.

Good Day, a soju produced by Muhak, saw sales in Japan rise from 1.2 million bottles in 2019 to 4 million last year. Fruit-flavored and low-alcohol versions are selling particularly well.
Tensions have escalated since U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit last week to Taiwan, an island China claims as its own. In response, Beijing has launched drills in the Taiwan Strait, deploying jets and warships, and firing several ballistic missiles.

Speaking on Tuesday, Australian Defense Minister and acting Prime Minister, Richard Marles, said Beijing's military buildup was of "enormous" concern and has shaped the strategic circumstances of the region.

Australia says its defense force must be "as potent as possible" as China intensifies its military drills near Taiwan.

At the weekend, Australia joined the United States and Japan to condemn the escalation in tensions. But Beijing insisted it was the "victim" of diplomatic bullying. Last week, Australia announced a review of its military capabilities for the next decade.

Marles told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. that China's growing assertiveness has become an immense security and political challenge for the Canberra government and its allies.

"It is the single biggest fact(or) which shapes the strategic environment of our region, arguably the world," he said. "It is certainly one of the key fact(ors) in shaping Australia's strategic circumstances and it is why we need to make sure that we are building a defense force which is as capable as possible, which is as potent as possible so that we can keep Australians safe."

Australia has a One China policy that does not support Taiwanese independence. Officials have said that Canberra does not back "any unilateral action on either side of the Taiwan Strait, which would change the status quo."

Tensions over Taiwan join a long list of disputes and grievances that have unsettled Australia's relationship with its biggest trading partner. There have been allegations of Chinese interference in Australian affairs, concerns about democracy in Hong Kong, and Beijing's ambitions in the South China Sea and the Pacific. The two sides also have clashed over Canberra's call for an inquiry into the origins of COVID-19, which was first detected in China.

Analysts have said China has sought to punish Canberra with a range of restrictions on Australian commodities. Beijing has accused Australia of "anti-China" hysteria.

The recently elected Labor government in Canberra has said it was on a mission to repair its fractured ties with China, but experts have said that tensions over Taiwan have shown it will be a delicate process.
By Haruko Mera, KYODO NEWS - Aug 9, 2022 - 10:49 | Feature, All, Japan

With an increasing number of women in Japan marrying late in life, more are seeking advice from local governments about the anxiety or depression they feel at suffering repeated miscarriages or stillbirths during pregnancies.

As consultations pour in from women grieving such losses, municipalities are promoting mental care programs, receiving the backing in March of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare to enhance their support by creating a handbook compiled by a research team of experts for use by local governments and medical institutions.

The counseling office for infertility at Okayama University Hospital receives requests for advice from grief-stricken women. Some speak of being "unable to breathe" when suddenly reminded of their traumatic experience or having "nobody to talk to."

Mikiya Nakatsuka, a professor of reproductive medicine at the university who had been involved with infertility treatments, keenly felt the need for the care of such women and started work on it. In 2004, the Okayama prefectural government established a mental support office.

The office is staffed with birthing assistants, clinical psychotherapists and other mental care providers who counsel people in need directly or by phone.

An endless number of counseling requests come in from people inside the prefecture, as well as those outside and overseas.

The average age of mothers in Japan giving birth to a first child was 30.9 in 2021, up from 26.4 in 1980.

Risks of miscarriage increase with age. According to the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, in 2019, the proportion of miscarriages was 14 to 17 percent for women aged 26-30, 21 percent at 35, 33 percent at 40, and 60 percent at 45, respectively.

"Women suffering due to experiences with miscarriage or stillbirth are increasing because of a rise in the average age of childbirth," Nakatsuka said.

There are various causes of infertility accompanied by repeated miscarriages or stillbirths, such as the shape of the uterus, chromosomal abnormalities in one of the parents or internal illness.

But in many cases, women who have repeated miscarriages or stillbirths blame themselves after being told, for example, that it happened because they let their body temperature drop. Other insensitive remarks by family members or others might include asking why they did not visit a hospital sooner or blaming the woman for working too hard.

The woman's grief is often compounded by further comments urging her to forget what happened and get back to her daily routine, or flippant remarks such as "It happens." Such grieving women might be pressed by their husbands not to see the deceased fetus or infant.

The health ministry instructed local governments in May 2021 to provide "grief care" for such women as part of its support for infertility treatment.

If a baby dies after a women's 22-week pregnancy bump, artificial labor is induced for delivery, causing a great deal of physical and mental anguish for the mother, experts say.

The handbook prepared by the health ministry urges birthing assistants and other staff members to listen carefully to the mother and her family before delivery about how they wish to say their goodbyes, such as dressing the fetus in "ceremonial" baby wear.

"Mothers are quite upset and some regret not taking their babies' photos or getting their footprints," said Midori Takao, a birthing assistant in the counseling office at Okayama University Hospital.

For this reason, there are cases when the hospital will take photos of the dead fetus and save them for a fixed period, even if the mother had not made such a request at the time of delivery.

The Oita prefectural government has also set up a counseling center for infertility in the city of Oita, where birthing assistants and other staff members support mothers. The center received consultation requests regarding miscarriages or stillbirths from 27 people in 2020 and 46 in 2021.

A feature of Oita Prefecture is its community-based approach and efforts to provide care through public health nurses who have frequent opportunities to come into contact with pregnant mothers.

In fiscal 2020, the prefectural government added support for women saddened by miscarriages or stillbirths to its training program for public health nurses. In fiscal 2022, it is focusing on specific care methods.

"There are women who talk to public health nurses about their experience of miscarriage. We will improve their skills so that such women are encouraged to visit professional advisory centers," said a prefectural government official.

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KYODO NEWS - Aug 9, 2022 - 20:16 | All, World, Japan

Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force said Tuesday it has conducted its first joint drill with Solomon Islands maritime police, amid concerns over China's growing military clout on the South Pacific island nation following a controversial security pact between them.

The MSDF said its destroyer Kirisame engaged in a maritime security exercise on Monday in the South Pacific with the patrol boat Taro from Solomon Islands' Police Maritime. They were also joined by the U.S. Navy's littoral combat ship Oakland.

With the Solomon Islands having no military force, the Police Maritime effectively functions as such.

The drill came after concerns were raised by a deal signed in April between China and the Solomon Islands.

The pact would reportedly allow the deployment of Chinese police, military and other armed personnel and the docking of Chinese ships in the island nation, which switched diplomatic ties from self-ruled Taiwan to China in 2019.

The Solomon Islands has denied that the security pact invites China to establish a military base there.

Tokyo and Washington have been stepping up efforts to push back against Beijing's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region and to strengthen relations with the Solomon Islands, such as by sending senior officials to the country.

Tensions across the Taiwan Strait have spiked in the wake of U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last week, with China launching a large-scale, live-fire military exercise around Taiwan in response to her trip which pushed through despite warnings.

Beijing sees Taiwan as a breakaway province to be reunified, by force if necessary.

Separately, the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force said Tuesday that it had carried out a joint drill with the U.S. Air Force above waters around Japan's southern island prefecture of Okinawa, near the East China Sea.

Three Japanese and two U.S. F-15 fighter jets participated in the exercise held last Thursday.

Related coverage:

Japan SDF member assaulted at WWII memorial event in Solomon Islands

Japan, U.S. vow to enhance ties with Solomon Islands amid China clout

Solomon Island aid improves China's image amid security pact concerns
KYODO NEWS - Aug 9, 2022 - 15:30 | All, Japan

The Japanese government is arranging for former U.S. President Barack Obama to attend a state funeral for slain former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe next month, a government source said Tuesday.

Other figures who may attend the Sept. 27 ceremony include French President Emmanuel Macron and former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, while Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to be absent, the source said.

The government plans to finalize the attendance of foreign dignitaries by the end of this week after Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, was shot and killed on July 8 as he was delivering an election stump speech on a road in the western Japan city of Nara.

Related coverage:

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The government has decided to conduct the funeral despite divided public opinion over whether it is appropriate to hold the state-funded event, with 53.3 percent of respondents to a recent Kyodo News poll opposing it.

Once the dignitaries' intent to attend is confirmed, meetings with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will be arranged before and after the funeral, the source said.

In 2016, Obama became the first sitting U.S. president to visit the site of the U.S. atomic bombing of Hiroshima, accompanied by Abe who was prime minister at the time. Obama, a Democratic Party president, is likely to appear in place of current U.S. President Joe Biden.

The government is making preparations for the funeral at the Nippon Budokan hall in Tokyo. A private funeral for Abe was held on July 12, just days after the 67-year-old lawmaker was assassinated.

Kishida expressed last month his intention to hold a state funeral for the former leader, citing his record eight years and eight months as prime minister as well as the significant recognition he garnered in the international community.

The government will hold the funeral "as an official state event to express the nation's respect and condolences as a whole, and we will invite representatives of each country to this occasion," Kishida has said.
KYODO NEWS - Aug 9, 2022 - 18:07 | All, Japan

Japan has recognized a Turkish Kurd as a refugee for the first time, according to the secretariat of the Japan Lawyers Network for Refugees.

The Sapporo Regional Immigration Services Bureau granted the 30-year-old man the status on July 28 after an appeals court ruled in May that he would be at risk of persecution if he returned to Turkey.

"It felt as if I had exhausted almost all of my strength in this long fight. I hope that this justice which was realized will give others hope," the Kurdish man said in a comment read by his lawyer to reporters on Tuesday.

The lawyer, Koji Yamada, said, "It's an extremely big step" for a country that has poor record in recognizing refugees.

The Turkish national entered Japan in 2014 and applied for refugee status, but was rejected in 2018. He filed a lawsuit in 2019 seeking revocation of the decision, which was ultimately ruled in his favor by the Sapporo High Court after being dismissed by a lower court.

In the ruling, the high court said there were "objective circumstances that would lead to a fear of persecution" and recognized the man as a refugee on the basis that he had been tortured by the military for providing food to members of a Kurdish independence group in Turkey.

Kurds in the country have been subjected to an assimilationist policy for more than a century and have faced political repression, including being banned until recently from using the Kurdish language.

According to the lawyers' group, while this is the first case of a Turkish Kurd being given refugee status there have been cases of Iranian and Syrian Kurds being recognized as refugees in Japan.

Japan only accepts around 1 percent of refugee applications and is criticized by human rights lawyers, activists and U.N. experts for failing to meet international standards.

In 2021, it granted refugee status to 74 people, the highest number since it began recognizing refugees in 1982, according to government data.

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Japan to recognize Turkish Kurd as refugee after appeals court ruling

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Japan mulls "quasi-refugee" status for people fleeing conflicts
KYODO NEWS - Aug 9, 2022 - 06:02 | All, World

U.S. President Joe Biden on Monday expressed concern over China's increased military activities around Taiwan in the wake of U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the self-ruled island, but indicated he does not expect further moves by Beijing to heighten tensions.

What concerns him is that China is "moving as much as they are," Biden told reporters in Delaware, adding, "But I don't think they're going to do anything more."

A Pentagon official denied that the latest development has changed an assessment that China is not likely to attempt to take over Taiwan militarily within the next two years, a view voiced by the U.S. military's top officer Mark Milley last year.

Asked whether the assessment has been affected, Colin Kahl, undersecretary of defense for policy, said, "No."

The New York Times reported in late July, prior to Pelosi's visit to Taiwan, that the Biden administration has grown anxious about China's statements and actions regarding Taiwan, with some officials fearing that Chinese leaders "might try to move against the self-governing island over the next year and a half."

Beijing may try to cut off access to all or part of the Taiwan Strait, through which U.S. naval ships regularly pass, it said.

China's military exercises near Taiwan in response to Pelosi's visit last week have involved ballistic missile launches, raising tensions in the region. Some of the missiles from China have fallen into Japan's exclusive economic zone, something that has not happened before, according to the Japanese government.

Pelosi made the visit to Taiwan to show support for the democratic island facing pressure from China, which views Taiwan as a renegade province awaiting reunification with the mainland, by force if necessary.

It was the first such trip by a U.S. House speaker in 25 years, and has infuriated Beijing, which has opposed anything it views as official interaction between the United States and the territory.

Biden administration officials have been criticizing Beijing's reaction to the visit, including the large-scale military drill and the suspension of bilateral engagements on climate change and other issues.

But the administration has also made clear that it has no intention to see the latest development spiral into a crisis with China.

"Clearly, the PRC is trying to coerce Taiwan. Clearly, they're trying to coerce the international community. And all I'll say is we're not going to take the bait," Kahl told a press conference, using the acronym of the People's Republic of China, the country's official name.

The United States changed its diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979, but has kept up unofficial relations with the island and supplies it with arms and spare military parts to help it maintain sufficient self-defense capabilities.
People are seen among the rubble of a house belonging to Gaza-based Shamalakh's family that was destructed by Israeli warplanes during the Gaza-Israel conflict, Aug. 6, 2022. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Gaza's Islamic Jihad group appeared to be holding into Monday, in a sign of restoring the calm in the region.



JERUSALEM, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Gaza's Islamic Jihad group appeared to be holding into Monday, in a sign of restoring the calm in the region.

The ceasefire deal, mediated by Cairo, came into effect on Sunday at 11:30 p.m. local time (2030 GMT). It followed three days of deadly Israeli airstrikes and barrages of rockets fired by Islamic Jihad militants at cities in southern and central Israel.

On Monday morning, Israel partially reopened crossings into the Gaza Strip for humanitarian aid, the Israeli military's liaison to the Palestinians Ghassan Alian said in a statement.

A woman mourns during the funeral of senior commander of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) movement Khaled Mansour and other Palestinians in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Aug. 7, 2022. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

Israeli state-owned Kan TV news reported that Israel also allowed some fuel tanks to enter Gaza, bringing oil to the coastal Palestinian enclave for the first time since Israel closed the crossings last week.

The closure of the crossings caused a fuel shortage that shut down Gaza's sole power plant on Saturday.

At noon, Israel lifted the restrictions that required Israeli residents in the southern areas to remain indoors. "In accordance with the situational assessment, the decision was made to remove all safety restrictions," the army said in a statement.

The train service in the south was resumed and roadblocks in the areas near the Gaza Strip, imposed last week in the wake of the tension, were lifted.

"If the ceasefire is violated, Israel maintains the right to respond strongly," Lior Hayat, head of the National Public Diplomacy Directorate, warned in a statement issued on Sunday night.

Ran Kochav, the Israeli military's spokesman, told Army Radio that 1,100 rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip during the escalation, with 200 landing inside Gaza. The rockets sent residents of southern communities and major cities including Tel Aviv to shelters.

Smoke billows following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on Aug. 7, 2022. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

No Israeli fatalities have been reported but one person, a Palestinian man from Hebron who works in the Israeli city of Ashkelon, was lightly-to-moderate injured by a rocket that hit a factory on Saturday and a few people were treated for panic or heart attack caused by the sirens.

In Gaza, at least 44 Palestinians, including 15 children and four women, were killed, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza. At least 360 more were wounded and several buildings were destroyed.

"I hope that in a few days the situation would be normal," Adnan Abu Hasna, a spokesman with the United Nations aid agency of UNRWA, told Israel's Reshet Bet public radio.

"There were many attacks and fear. Children were killed, and houses were destroyed. The situation was very difficult. An overwhelming majority of people in Gaza blame Israel. People have been under blockade for 15 years. If this negative energy does not have a solution, there will be another round (of violence)," he said.

People are seen among the rubble of a house belonging to Gaza-based Shamalakh's family that was destructed by Israeli warplanes during the Gaza-Israel conflict, Aug. 6, 2022. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

According to Israel, some of the fatalities were killed by Islamic Jihad's failed attempts to fire rockets at Israel. "More Palestinians had died from cases of rocket misfire by the Islamic Jihad than from IDF (Israel Defense Forces) fire," Kochav said, adding that Israel would investigate the deaths of civilians, including children.

It was the most serious flare-up since the 11-day war between Israel and Gaza's Hamas rulers in May 2021.

The violence began on Friday when Israel launched an airstrike that killed a senior Islamic Jihad commander and unleashed Operation Breaking Dawn. Israel said that the operation was needed to thwart an attack planned by the Iranian-backed group.

Gaza, home to more than two million people, has been under a crippling blockade since 2007. Under Israel's restrictive policy, only a very limited number of people and goods are allowed in and out of Gaza, causing a chronic shortage of fuel and goods.

Israel seized the West Bank and Gaza Strip in the 1967 Middle East war and controlled them ever since. The Palestinians wish to build their future state in these territories. 
KHARTOUM, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chairman of Sudan's ruling Transitional Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan on Monday stressed Sudan's position in condemning all forms of extremism, terrorism and criminal activities.

Al-Burhan made the remarks when addressing a workshop organized by the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA) in Sudan's capital Khartoum on "Role of Deradicalisation and Rehabilitation in Combating Terrorism."

"Sudan, like other countries, faces the phenomenon of violent extremism and terrorism," said Al-Burhan.

"We are making great efforts to combat these phenomena through various means, including the security services, issuing a number of legislation and laws, and ratifying many regional, international and bilateral agreements," he said.

The Sudanese leader further underscored the CISSA's role in confronting terrorism, extremism, cross-border crime and illegal immigration as well as overcoming all security challenges in the African Continent.

Established in Nigeria in 2004 to address the security challenges confronting the African Continent, CISSA currently comprises 54 African intelligence bodies. 
WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Former U.S. President Donald Trump said Monday evening that his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, had been raided by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Trump said in a statement that his home "is currently under siege, raided and occupied by a large group of FBI agents."

Neither the FBI nor the U.S. Department of Justice commented on the raid. 
Zhang Jun (C), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, chairs an emergency opening meeting of the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, at the UN headquarters in New York, Aug. 8, 2022. Zhang urged the international community to take substantive steps to advance the two-state solution to settle the Palestinian issue at an early date. Monday's emergency meeting was convened at the request of China, the United Arab Emirates, France, Ireland and Norway, according to the Chinese UN mission. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy to the United Nations on Monday urged the international community to take substantive steps to advance the two-state solution to settle the Palestinian issue at an early date.

Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, chaired an emergency opening meeting of the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, in his capacity as council president for the month of August.

Speaking in his national capacity, Zhang said all the efforts for the cease-fire agreement reached between Israel and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad on Sunday are highly appreciated by China.

Monday's emergency meeting was convened at the request of China, the United Arab Emirates, France, Ireland and Norway, according to the Chinese UN mission.

The current situation on the ground remains very fragile. Undoubtedly, the Security Council is duty-bound to pay close attention to the situation and to prevent its further escalation, Zhang said.

"Reaching a cease-fire agreement is only the beginning. The key to a cease-fire and stopping violence lies in the implementation," he said.

Relevant diplomatic efforts should continue, so that calm can be restored in Gaza as soon as possible, he said.

The root causes for the upheavals in the Palestinian and Israeli situation are that the Middle East peace process has deviated from the right track. The foundation of the two-state solution has been eroded. The UN resolutions have not been implemented effectively, and the Palestinian people's right to independence and statehood has been repeatedly violated, he said.

The international community must take a long-term perspective, tackle the root causes of the problem, conduct diplomatic efforts with a sense of urgency, reverse the negative trends on the ground, revive the peace process as soon as possible, and take substantive steps to advance the two-state solution, so that the Palestinian people can fully enjoy their rights, and a comprehensive, just and lasting settlement of the Palestinian question can be achieved at an early date, he said.

"The council should carefully heed the voices of the Palestinian people, adopt effective measures against all disruptions, and bring hope and justice back to the people of Palestine," said Zhang. 
BEIRUT, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Michel Aoun on Monday agreed with ministers on the initial criteria and steps to be adopted for the implementation of the strategy to return Syrian refugees to their homeland, Lebanon's Presidency said in a statement.

"We have agreed with President Aoun on many points related to the Syrian refugees' return plan, and we coordinated our positions hoping to hold more meetings next week to agree on the basic steps to be taken to start with the return process," said Lebanese Minister of Social Affairs Hector Hajjar, following his meeting at Baabda Palace with Aoun and the Foreign Affairs Minister Abdallah Bou Habib.

Hajjar assured that coordination with Syria on the matter is still ongoing and has never stopped.

On July 4, Lebanon announced a plan to send back 15,000 displaced Syrians monthly but has yet to secure written approval from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) who insisted that Syria is not safe for home return.

Lebanon insisted on implementing its plan regardless of the UN position as the country suffers from an unprecedented financial crisis and the presence of a big number of refugees which weighs heavily on the economy and infrastructure.

Lebanon remains the country hosting the largest number of refugees per capita, with the government estimation of 1.5 million Syrian refugees. 
UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 3 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Wednesday that he will set up a fact-finding mission to look into Friday's attack on a Donetsk prison in Ukraine that reportedly killed dozens of prisoners of war.

He has received requests from both Russia and Ukraine for an investigation into the shelling of the prison in Olenivka, Guterres told reporters. "I decided, in line with my own competencies and powers, to launch a fact-finding mission -- I have not the authority to do criminal investigations, but (have the authority) to launch a fact-finding mission."

The terms of reference for that fact-finding mission are being prepared at the moment. They will be shared with the governments of Russia and Ukraine, he said. "I hope we will be able to have an agreement on the terms of reference of that mission."

At the same time, the world body is recruiting "competent, independent people" for the fact-finding mission and is engaged in heavy coordination work, he said.

"We hope to have the facilities from both sides for access and for the obtention of all data that is necessary to be able to clarify the truth about what has happened," said Guterres. "This is a matter that we took very seriously and we are working hard for that."

Ukraine and Russia accused each other of carrying out the fatal attack on the prison in Olenivka. 
UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland on Monday described a cease-fire in Gaza and Israel as fragile, and called for talks toward a two-state solution to end the cycles of violence.

The past days witnessed a deeply worrying escalation in the Gaza Strip between Israeli military forces and Palestinian armed groups, primarily the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Wennesland told a Security Council meeting on the situation in the Middle East.

On Sunday night, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and the Israeli Prime Minister's Office announced in separate statements that a cease-fire had been agreed, he said, noting that cease-fire remains in place so far.

Citing the crucial role played by Egypt in securing the cease-fire alongside the United Nations, as well as support by related parties, Wennesland said the de-escalation of the situation helped prevent the outbreak of a full-scale war and allowed for the delivery of much-needed humanitarian relief to the people of Gaza starting earlier Monday.

But he pointed out that the most recent escalation had its roots in deeper tensions.

"I want to make the Council aware of the following: the cease-fire is fragile. Any resumption of hostilities will only have devastating consequences for Palestinians and Israelis and make any political progress elusive," he said in his briefing to the Security Council.

Wennesland reiterated calls to the Israeli and Palestinian leadership, along with the international community, to strengthen diplomatic efforts to return to meaningful negotiations toward a viable two-state solution.

"Ultimately, the underlying drivers of this and previous escalations remain. These cycles of violence will only cease when we achieve a political resolution of the conflict that brings an end to the occupation and the realization of a two-state solution on the basis of the 1967 lines, in line with UN resolutions, international law and previous agreements," he said. 
SHIJIAZHUANG, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Great Wall Motor (GWM), China's largest sport utility vehicle (SUV) and pickup manufacturer, saw vehicle sales increasing 11.32 percent year on year to 101,920 units in July.

Among them, 14,710 were sold overseas, 18.27 percent more than the figure of July last year, the company said.

Haval, GWM's leading SUV brand, sold 61,279 vehicles in July, up 7.14 percent year on year. Great Wall pickups continued to dominate the domestic market with 16,305 units sold in July.

Last month, 12,473 units of Tank, another GWM SUV brand, were sold, up 128.03 percent year on year. The brand also started entering into the overseas market as Tank 300 was launched in Saudi Arabia on July 3.

Headquartered in the city of Baoding, north China's Hebei Province, Great Wall Motor owns several vehicle brands, including HAVAL, GWM Pickup, WEY and ORA. 
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The international community has strongly blasted Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi's visit to China's Taiwan region, saying it grossly infringed on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and undermined peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

They also voiced firm adherence to the one-China principle and staunch support for the countermeasures taken by the Chinese side.

A GRIEVOUS PROVOCATION

Pelosi's trip to China's Taiwan region was a political show, and has brought about negative effects on global affairs, said Miguel Rodriguez Mackay, president of the Peruvian Institute of Law and International Relations, adding that the U.S. action destabilizes regional and international peace.

Serbian expert Zivadin Jovanovic, who is also a former Yugoslavian foreign minister, said support for separatism globally has been one of the key tools of the U.S. strategy of domination, expansionism, and hegemonism.

"Although they long ago accepted the one-China policy, they have been violating it, proving that their expansionism has priority over any principles, deeds or international law," Jovanovic said.

Mexican Senator Jose Narro Cespedes said in an article on local media that Pelosi's visit not only poses threat to people in Asia, but also puts all inhabitants of the world in danger.

In an interview with Xinhua, Takashi Okada, a guest commentator of Kyodo News, said that Pelosi's visit to Taiwan intensified tensions across the Taiwan Strait.

"It is a highly irresponsible and foolish action that is beneficial to no one," he said.

Former Maltese Foreign Minister Evarist Bartolo compared Pelosi's visit to "wildfires" that threaten the world, noting that such a visit is making global cooperation more difficult.

The visit is "a serious violation of China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Aldo Rebelo, former president of the Chamber of Deputies of Brazil, said in an article on local media.

He said it sent a wrong signal to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, which will bring severe consequences.

FIRM ADHERENCE TO ONE-CHINA POLICY

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe reiterated on social media his country's firm commitment to the one-China policy as well as to the UN Charter principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations.

Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of the French political party La France Insoumise, said that France believes that there is only one China in the world and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China.

Ali el-Hefny, Egypt's former ambassador to China, said that Pelosi's visit was provocative, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China.

Gerald Mbanda, a senior Rwandan columnist, wrote in an article that realizing national reunification is an unremitting pursuit of the Chinese people.

While saying the United States has been attempting to "use Taiwan to contain China," he stressed that Pelosi's visit has undermined world peace and stability, violated international law and basic norms of international relations, and must be condemned by the international community.

Shakeel Shabbir, chairman of the Kenya-China Friendship Group in the National Assembly of Kenya, expressed his position with two "fully supports:" fully supports China's efforts to achieve complete national reunification; and fully supports the Chinese government's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and measures taken to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

SUPPORTING CHINA'S COUNTERMEASURES, OPPOSING U.S. HEGEMONY

"America, get your hands off Taiwan!" Nearly 400 students from Russia's youth organization Young Guard shouted at a rally to strongly denounce Pelosi's visit.

The United States blatantly trampled on the one-China principle, and the Russian people firmly oppose American hegemony, said organizers of the event.

Herimanana Razafimahefa, president of the Senate of Madagascar, said his country supports the Chinese government's relentless efforts to protect national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

"China has the right to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity amid the tensions caused exclusively by the United States," said Eduardo Regalado, senior researcher at the International Policy Research Center of Cuba, noting the "Taiwan independence" separatists should be made to pay the price.

The Sri Lanka-China Friendship Association said in a statement that it strongly supports China's countermeasures against Pelosi's visit, strongly recognizes China's inalienable sacred right to national reunification, and supports every step China takes to fulfill it. 
A Ukrainian soldier covers an armored vehicle with branches in Donbass on April 12, 2022. (Photo by Diego Herrera/Xinhua)

The just-announced aid brings total U.S. commitment of security assistance to Ukraine to approximately 9.8 billion dollars since Biden took office, according to the Pentagon.

WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden announced Monday that the United States will provide Ukraine with 1 billion U.S. dollars worth of additional security assistance, the largest one-time weapons package since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

According to a statement by the Department of Defense, the package - the 18th tranche of presidential drawdown since August 2021 - included additional munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), 75,000 rounds of 155 mm artillery ammunition, 20 120 mm mortar systems and 20,000 rounds of 120 mm mortar ammunition, as well as munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS).

Washington will also deliver to Kiev 1,000 Javelins, hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems, 50 armored medical treatment vehicles, anti-personnel munitions, explosives, demolition munitions and demolition equipment, the statement said.

The just-announced aid brings total U.S. commitment of security assistance to Ukraine to approximately 9.8 billion dollars since Biden took office, according to the Pentagon. 
Yemeni protesters take part in an anti-U.S. protest in Sanaa, Yemen, on May 20, 2017. (Xinhua/Mohammed Mohammed)

U.S. commits serious crimes of violating human rights in the Middle East and beyond

The China Society for Human Rights Studies

August 2022

The United States has committed a series of crimes that seriously violate international law, including war crimes, crimes against humanity, arbitrary detention, abuse of torture, torture of prisoners, and indiscriminate unilateral sanctions in the Middle East and surrounding areas, constituting systematic violations of human rights with lasting and far-reaching harm.

The U.S. crimes have not only led to frequent and repeated wars in the Middle East and other places, plunging them into the quagmire of conflicts and security dilemmas and seriously undermining local people's rights to life, health, personal dignity, freedom of religious belief, survival and development.

1. Launching wars, massacring civilians, and damaging the right to life and survival

American historian Paul Atwood, in his book titled War and Empire: The American Way of Life that came out in 2010, pointed out that "war is the American way of life." Since the founding of the United States, there were less than 20 years in which it has not participated in a war, making it a veritable "war empire."

Since the end of the Cold War, the United States has been involved in almost all major conflicts and wars in the Middle East and surrounding regions, which have become the area hardest hit by the external wars launched by the United States.

Statistics from the U.S. Smithsonian Institution Magazine has shown that since 2001, wars and military operations launched by the United States in the name of "anti-terrorism" covered "about 40% of the countries on the planet."

The United States not only rallied its allies to launch the Gulf War (1990-1991), the Afghanistan War (2001-2021), the Iraq War (2003-2011), and so on, but also was deeply involved in the Libyan War and the Syrian War, creating a humanitarian disaster rarely seen throughout the world. The warmongering United States has caused direct, serious and lasting damage to local people's right to life and survival.

An injured man receives medical treatment at a local hospital in Kandahar city, southern Afghanistan, April 16, 2021. (Photo by Sanaullah Seiam/Xinhua)

First, wantonly waging wars in violation of international law. The Afghanistan War and the Iraq War are the two largest wars launched by the United States in the Middle East and surrounding regions, spelling dreadful disasters to the lives and living condition of the people of the two countries.

The Brown University's Costs of War Project pointed out that more than 174,000 people died directly in the war in Afghanistan, of whom more than 47,000 were civilians.

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the nearly 20-year war in Afghanistan forced 2.6 million Afghans to flee abroad and displaced 3.5 million others.

In 2003, the United States bypassed the United Nations and violated the basic international law principle of the prohibition of the use of force to launch the Iraq War with excuses fabricated out of thin air, constituting aggression against Iraq.

According to Statista, a global statistical database, from 2003 to 2021, about 209,000 Iraqi civilians died in wars and violent conflicts, and about 9.2 million Iraqis became refugees or were forced to leave their homeland. The United States launched wars in the Middle East and other places, seriously undermining the right to life and survival of the people in the region.

Second, trampling on international law and killing innocent civilians indiscriminately. In order to achieve its own military goals, the United States disregards the lives of civilians in other countries.

Firstly, the United States has repeatedly and indiscriminately attacked civilians in the Middle East and other places.

On Aug. 12, 2005, a U.S. armored patrol vehicle shot at people coming out of a mosque in the suburban town of Ramadi, Iraq, killing 15 Iraqis, including eight children, and injuring 17 others.

On Nov. 21 of the same year, the U.S. troops stationed in Iraq opened fire on a civilian vehicle in northern Baghdad, killing a family of five, including three children. The United Nations Commission of Inquiry accused the U.S. military of launching indiscriminate attacks in Syria, causing civilian casualties and showing a reckless disregard for consequences, which constituted war crimes.

Abdullah Ibrahim shows a photo of his house destroyed by a reckless U.S. missile, which also left him disabled, in Salahudin province, Iraq, Jan. 4, 2022. (Xinhua)

A United Nations report released in September 2019 noted that many of the airstrikes carried out by the U.S.-led coalition in places like Syria "did not take the necessary precautions to distinguish between military targets and civilians."

Secondly, the United States has widely used air strikes to carry out so-called "anti-terrorism" operations, which often killed civilians "by mistake," injured innocent people, and arbitrarily deprived them of the right to life.

The New York Times reported that based on an investigation of classified Pentagon documents, frequent U.S. airstrikes in Syria caused a large number of civilian casualties due to "serious intelligence deficiencies" and "mistargeting," which the Pentagon usually chooses to cover up or not to penalize.

In 2017, the U.S. military launched what it called "the most precise airstrike" on the Syrian city of Raqqa. The RAND Corporation, a U.S. think tank, pointed out in a released report that the U.S. military operation resulted in 38 incidents inflicting civilian casualties, killing 178 civilians and wounding dozens of others. Some human rights groups have estimated the number of civilian casualties could be as high as 1,600.

On March 18, 2019, U.S. drones killed at least 64 civilian women and children as they searched for "extremist groups" in the town of Baghouz on the Syrian-Iraqi border.

In February 2022, the U.S. military launched a raid in Syria's Idlib province, killing at least 13 people, including six children and three women.

On Aug. 29, 2021, a drone attack by the U.S. military in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, killed 10 local civilians, including seven children.

Thirdly, U.S. military contractors killed civilians for no reason.

The United States is given to using military contractors to exercise hegemonic repression in the Middle East, and they often escape accountability for their illegal and criminal acts there.

In 2007, employees of the American Blackwater Company carried out a massacre in Nisour Square in Baghdad, killing 14 civilians, including two children, and injuring at least 17 others.

In 2020, then-President Donald Trump even pardoned Blackwater employees who committed war crimes in Iraq.

The United Nations Human Rights Council's Working Group on Mercenaries said in a statement that this act by the U.S. government has breached international humanitarian law and human rights and was an affront to justice and the victims and their families, calling on all States parties to the Geneva Conventions to jointly condemn it. The U.S. military troops' wanton massacre of civilians abroad undoubtedly constitutes a crime against humanity.

Third, indirect participation in wars resulted in a large number of civilian casualties.

The United States has extensively cultivated proxies in the Middle East and other places, and sold weapons in large quantities, causing large-scale humanitarian disasters.

The United States has been deeply involved in the war in Syria and the domestic conflict in Libya by fostering multiple proxies, causing the local wars and conflicts to drag on till today and the situation to become increasingly complex, which makes political reconciliation and social stability a faraway prospect.

Iraqis protest against U.S.-led attacks on Syria, at Tahrir Square, Baghdad, Iraq, on April 15, 2018. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood)

Mustafa Abdul Jalil, former chairman of the Libyan National Transitional Council, said that the persistent civil unrest has led to the death of many Libyans, "and the United States does not care about the consequences of military operations and wars."

According to data released by the United Nations, U.S. military intervention has claimed at least 350,000 lives in Syria, displaced more than 12 million people, and left 14 million civilians in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. The Syrian refugee issue has been called by the United Nations "the biggest refugee crisis of our time."

While Afghanistan and Iraq were still mired in wars, the U.S. government, which recklessly launched the wars, repeatedly decided to pull out its forces, with total disregard for the most basic humanitarianism, perpetuating the conflicts in those countries and further worsening their chaotic situation.

By destroying the original state apparatus of Iraq by force, the United States has weakened the Iraqi government's ability of control and provided space and conditions for terrorism to expand.

In 2011, the United States irresponsibly withdrew its troops from Iraq. Extremist groups such as "the Islamic State" took advantage of the situation and grew increasingly powerful. The ensuing frequent violent terrorist attacks become the biggest challenge threatening the security of Iraq and the region.

In August 2021, the United States also irresponsibly withdrew its troops from Afghanistan, and again turned a blind eye to the safety of the lives of the Afghan people during the withdrawal, resulting in many shocking casualties.





2. Forced transformation, unilateral sanctions, severe infringement of people's rights to development, life and health

The United States has wantonly suppressed non-compliant countries and organizations in the Middle East, and coercively promoted American values in the region, so as to ensure U.S.-dominated global political, economic and security orders.

Its essential goal is to maintain America's military, economic and conceptual hegemony, which in consequence has altered the independent development paths of regional countries and severely undermined the sovereignty of related countries in the Middle East as well as their people's rights to development and health.

First, the United States subverted governments, interfered in other countries' internal affairs, and infringed upon others' sovereignty and human rights.

On one hand, after the end of the Cold War, in order to secure absolute dominance over the Middle East and other places, the United States launched wars against non-compliant sovereign countries in the region to directly push for regime change, and then forcibly transplanted "American democracy" and transformed regional countries' systems and development paths. The most typical examples are its invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq in 2001 and 2003 respectively to overthrow the governments it disliked.

On the other hand, the United States has long supported the infiltration of non-governmental organizations and proxies in the Middle East society, and repeatedly changed the development paths of the Middle East countries by means of "color revolution."

As a "pawn" and "white glove" of the U.S. government in its bid to interfere in other countries' internal affairs and instigate separatism and confrontation, the National Endowment for Democracy has served the strategic interests of the United States by carrying out long-term infiltration and subversion activities against Middle East countries. Its record has been notorious.

A new house is under construction on a destroyed land in Ain Zara area in southern Tripoli, Libya on Feb. 6, 2021. (Photo by Nada Harib/Xinhua)

With continuous financial support from the White House and the U.S. Congress and by obeying orders from the U.S. government, the organization incited color revolutions in Egypt, Yemen, Jordan, Algeria, Syria, Libya and other countries by providing funding to pro-U.S. individuals and groups, and was the key mastermind of the "Arab Spring."

The United States attempts to transform regional countries and establish fragile, dependent regimes to serve its global hegemony. Its forced "institutional exports" with strong hegemonic undertones have crippled regional countries' efforts to independently explore their development paths and caused a series of disastrous consequences. Its forced transformation of Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Libya, among many others, has disrupted political order, and destroyed social and national cohesion in these countries.

Such acts of toppling the governments of other countries by force, interference in the internal affairs of other countries, and forcible export of the so-called "democracy" not only violated the basic norms of international relations such as prohibiting the use of force and non-interference in internal affairs, but also seriously violated the rights of the people of the relevant countries to choose their own development paths as well as their basic human rights.

Second, the United States has abused unilateral sanctions against sovereign countries, causing severe economic losses and a decline in the quality of life of the people in those countries. The United States is the only "sanctions superpower" in the world. According to the Treasury 2021 sanctions review, the United States has had more than 9,400 sanctions in effect by the 2021 fiscal year.

Since 1979, the United States has imposed various unilateral sanctions on Iran and other countries. In 1996, it issued the Iran and Libya Sanctions Act of 1996, forbidding foreign companies from investing in Iran's and Libya's energy industry, and implementing long-arm jurisdiction, which is gravely harmful and has had a far-reaching impact.

Since then, the United States has imposed more and more sanctions on Iran. The Trump administration exerted sanctions and maximum pressure on Iran in an attempt to effect change and overthrow the Iranian government. Former Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, while in office, said U.S. sanctions imposed by the Trump administration cost Iran at least 200 billion U.S. dollars in economic losses, describing U.S. sanctions as inhumane and a terrorist act against the entire Iranian nation.

From 1980 to 1992, the United States imposed unilateral sanctions on Libya, and from 1992 to 2003, it coerced and roped in its allies to expand the unilateral sanctions against Libya. The World Bank said the Libyan economy has lost 18 billion dollars due to sanctions, while an official Libyan estimate put the loss at 33 billion dollars.

After the first Gulf War, the United States imposed brutal unilateral sanctions on Iraq with severe consequences. From August 1990 to May 2003, sanctions cost Iraq 150 billion dollars in losses of oil revenues. To date, Iraq's per capita annual income has fallen short of its 1990 level (7,050 dollars).

In addition, the sanctions have caused a serious humanitarian disaster in Iraq, with the infant mortality rate doubling and the under-five mortality rate increasing sevenfold. Meanwhile, Iraq's education, health and social security systems were destroyed, and its literacy rate fell from 89 percent in 1987 to 57 percent in 1997.

Photo taken on July 3, 2022 shows the reconstruction site of the Grand al-Nuri Mosque in the old city of Mosul, Iraq. (Xinhua/Khalil Dawood)

After withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan in 2021, the United States has not only imposed economic sanctions on Afghanistan, but also froze billions of dollars of foreign exchange reserves of the Afghan central bank, bringing the Afghan economy to the brink of collapse and worsening the life of the people. World Food Program officials pointed out that the U.S. economic sanctions on Afghanistan have exacerbated the local food crisis, with 98 percent of Afghans not consuming enough food and nearly half of children under 5-year-old going to be in a state of severe malnutrition.

However, on Feb. 11, 2022, U.S. President Joe Biden signed an executive order demanding that the 7-billion-dollar frozen assets of the Afghan Central Bank in the United States be divided equally, with half of the money going to a fund for 9/11 victims and the other half to an account of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York to "help the Afghan people," while making clear that the assets would not be returned to the Taliban authorities. The U.S. government's blatant plundering of the Afghan people's properties, a hegemonic act, has been widely condemned by the international community.

In an article published in Foreign Affairs magazine, Daniel W. Drezner, a professor with Tufts University, criticized the abuse of economic coercion by successive U.S. governments. Sanctions have become the go-to solution for nearly every foreign policy problem, which do not work but exact a humanitarian toll.

The unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States against countries in the Middle East and elsewhere have ultimately hurt the ordinary people, and seriously undermined the right to development of the sanctioned countries and their people.

Third, the United States has created humanitarian crises, severely undermining the right to health of the people in related countries. The U.S.-initiated Gulf War, the Iraq war and subsequent violent conflicts have destroyed much of Iraq's infrastructure, grossly reduced the capacity of the country's public services, and the people are faced with a lack of water, electricity and medical care, with the poor, children, widows, the elderly and other most vulnerable groups suffering the most.

Take the health sector for example. After the Gulf War, the level of medical care in Iraq declined significantly. In 1990, 97 percent of Iraq's urban population and 71 percent of its rural population had access to public health services. After the Iraq war in 2003, some 20,000 local doctors fled and many medical facilities were ruined in the fighting. As a result of the damage to power plants and water treatment facilities caused by U.S. bombings, the number of people suffering from diarrhoeal diseases was four times higher than pre-war level. In Mosul, Iraq's second largest city, nine of its 13 hospitals were destroyed, leaving this city of 1.8 million people with a meager 1,000 hospital beds available.

In addition, when the United States launched the Iraq War, it used depleted uranium munitions in large quantities, causing enormous damage to the health of the local population and seriously violating their right to health.

Turning a blind eye to the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. government still insists on imposing unilateral sanctions on Iran, Syria and other countries, making it difficult for the sanctioned countries to obtain medical supplies needed to fight the pandemic.

In 2020, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said: "At this crucial time, both for global public health reasons, and to support the rights and lives of millions of people in these countries, sectoral sanctions should be eased or suspended. In a context of global pandemic, impeding medical efforts in one country heightens the risk for all of us."

As a result of the sanctions, Iran has been unable to import essential medicines and medical equipment, which has seriously affected the health of millions of Iranians.

The Iranian government applied for a 5-billion-U.S.-dollar special loan from the IMF to raise funds against the COVID-19 pandemic, but was blocked by the United States. The United States has blocked Iran's access to COVID-19 vaccines by freezing Iran's overseas funds and threatening vaccine suppliers.

In 2020, Iran said it had tried three times to pay for vaccines under COVAX, the WHO's COVID-19 Implementation Plan, but failed due to U.S. sanctions and restrictions.

According to an op-ed published by the Brookings Institute, rather than easing sanctions to help Iran manage the pandemic better, the United States piled on more sanctions. Had sanctions eased when the pandemic hit Iran, the article said, 13,000 lives could have been saved.





3. Create "clash of civilizations" and abuse imprisonment and torture, violating freedom of religion and human dignity

Showing no respect for the diversity of civilizations, the United States has been hostile to Islamic civilization, destroyed the historical and cultural heritage of the Middle East, imprisoned and tortured Muslims recklessly, and seriously violated the basic human rights of people in the Middle East and other places.

First, the United States has spread the "Islamic threat theory" around the world. It has advocated the superiority of Western and Christian civilization, despised non-Western civilization, and stigmatized Islamic civilization by labelling it as "backward," "terror" and "violent."

Using the 9/11 incident as an excuse, the United States has hyped up the "Islamic threat theory" in the world, deliberately misled or even incited people to be hostile to Islam and discriminate against Muslims, and provoked a "clash of civilizations," mobilizing public opinion and inventing a pretext to justify its global war on terror.

The "Islamophobia" created by the United States was once widespread in the country and other Western nations, seriously damaging the national dignity and international image of Islamic countries and violating the personal freedom and freedom of religious belief of Muslims.

Obstructed by the United States, the legitimate national rights and legitimate demands of the Palestinian people have long remained unresolved, not to mention peace, development and human rights.

Palestinian people inspect a damaged vehicle after an Israeli airstrike in Gaza City, on Aug. 7, 2022. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Second, the United States has ruined the cultural heritage of the ancient civilization in the Middle East. The United States has pursued Western-centrism and advocated the "democratic peace theory" and "democratic transformation theory," disregarding the long history and splendor of the Middle Eastern civilizations.

After the U.S. military launched the Iraq War, its military actions directly caused regime change, social unrest and prolonged conflicts. Worse still, during the U.S. invasion and occupation, Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, was once plunged into a state of anarchy, and the Iraq Museum, which is listed by UNESCO as one of the top 11 museums in the world, was plundered of 170,000 artifacts featuring the essence of ancient art and civilization of Sumerian, Babylonian, Assyrian and other historical stages in the region. Human civilization were tragically destroyed.

Under international law, such as Convention (IV) respecting the Laws and Customs of War on Land and its annex: Regulations concerning the Laws and Customs of War on Land, and the Geneva Convention, the occupant is required to maintain social order in the occupied area.

However, after occupying Baghdad, the U.S. military, under the excuse of not being a police officer, refused to take timely measures and avoided its obligation under international law to maintain social order. This led to the biggest case of cultural destruction in human history, and its harm was so profound that it completely ran counter to the modern civilized world.

The deputy director of the museum was outspoken in his accusation in 2003 that the U.S. military was responsible for what had happened.

In addition, the United States has suppressed, insulted and bullied Middle Eastern countries, undermining the cultural confidence of the nations and their people, and destroying the national pride and self-confidence of the Middle Eastern people.

Third, prisoner abuse and torture seriously undermined Muslims' right to human dignity. Since the United States launched its global war on terrorism, prisoner abuse scandals against Muslims have been heard all the time.

According to a report from the Costs of War Project at Brown University, following the 9/11 attack, the United States orchestrated a system of black sites in at least 54 countries and regions worldwide under the guise of "anti-terrorism," involving hundreds of thousands of people, including Muslims, women and children.

As early as 2003, the U.S. military, in serious violation of international human rights law, blatantly abused detainees at Abu Ghraib Prison in Iraq, many of whom were detained without just cause, resulting in a large number of deaths.

In addition, the United States established Guantanamo Bay detention camp to lock up a total of nearly 780 "terrorists" from the Middle East and elsewhere total, many of whom have been held without bringing any criminal charge.

More than 30 people, old and frail, remain in the prison, who are deprived of liberty for long periods of time and subjected to endless mental and physical torture.

In addition to widespread abuse and torture at Guantanamo, U.S. personnel have tortured prisoners by desecrating the Quran and violating Islamic beliefs, including throwing the Quran into toilets, tearing to pieces or burning the Quran under the guise of searching for weapons, and having female guards spy on naked prisoners in bathrooms, which sparked collective protests and even caused mass suicides among the detainees.

In September 2021, the U.S. prison and prisoner abuse practices at Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan were exposed by the media. Evidence from the International Criminal Court investigation revealed that U.S. forces in Afghanistan ignored international justice and trampled on international norms, and inflicted "torture, cruel treatment, outrages upon personal dignity, rape and sexual abuse" on detainees for a long time, including putting at least 30 prisoners in a cage, leaving tortured prisoners to die in concealed areas, parading naked prisoners with blindfolds, among others.

The humiliating and cruel treatment of prisoners by the U.S. military constitutes a grave violation of their fundamental right to human dignity and of the U.S. obligation under international human rights law to prohibit torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

Facts show that the United States has seriously violated the basic human rights of local people in the Middle East and other places, causing permanent damage and irreparable losses to countries and people in the region. The nature of American hegemony and the barbarity, cruelty and perniciousness of its power politics have been completely exposed, and the people of the world have a better understanding of the hypocrisy and deception of the American democracy and the American human rights. 
NEW DELHI, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Nobody can stop China's national reunification, said Sudheendra Kulkarni, an India expert, while commenting on Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi's recent visit to China's Taiwan region.

Noting that Pelosi's visit is "an act of extreme provocation," the former chairman of Mumbai-based think-tank Observer Research Foundation said it's a violation of the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiques in a recent interview with Xinhua.

By order of succession, Pelosi is the third-highest-ranking official in the U.S. government, he said, adding that the country has "obviously crossed the red line by allowing Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan."

Pelosi has not only violated the UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 and broken the commitments made by her own country, Kulkarni said.

Referring to the results of her visit, the expert said it has seriously undermined China-U.S. relations and the responsibility rests entirely with the United States.

Kulkarni questioned the United States about its real intention behind the visit: "The real purpose is to contain China."

The interests of people in China's Taiwan region are going to be hurt, he said, adding that they are going to suffer because of the acts of provocation by the United States.

"Obviously, (some) people or rather politicians in the United States are short-sighted," he said. "It seems that they cannot live peacefully with the rest of the world. They have to have some trouble all the time in places around the world."

Speaking of possible development of the situation, he said "one thing is certain: China is going to take every step to defeat the conspiracy by the United States, and the United States will come out a loser in this battle." 
Zhang Jun (C), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks at a Security Council open debate convened by China on the theme "Peace and security in Africa: capacity-building for sustaining peace" at the UN headquarters in New York, Aug. 8, 2022. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations and president of the UN Security Council for August, on Monday called on the international community to support Africa in enhancing capacities to secure durable peace in a comprehensive approach.

"The Security Council needs to do some deep thinking in helping Africa achieve lasting peace," Zhang told a Security Council open debate convened by China on the theme "Peace and security in Africa: capacity-building for sustaining peace."

Considering China's own development experience, experience from China-Africa cooperation, and the historical lessons from all over the world, China believes that to help Africa achieve long-term stability, it is imperative to make sustained and increased investments, have long-term thinking, and build a strong foundation for Africa to strengthen its own development capacity and improve its resilience to external shocks, he said.

"In this regard, capacity building is the most crucial part," Zhang noted.

The envoy urged support for African countries in strengthening governance capacity. "To enhance government capacity, we need to maintain the right direction and respect the independently chosen development pathway and social system by their peoples."

There should be no political conditions attached to aid, nor should there be interference in internal affairs of African countries, or to replace the role of local governments, he said.

For post-conflict countries, Zhang emphasized the need to support the newly established governments in exercising state authority, instead of endless criticism and fault-finding, let alone attempt of "democratic transformation" and arbitrary use of sanctions for exerting pressure.

It is important to support African countries in improving security sectors' capacity to perform their duties. Heeding the complaints of African countries, it is necessary to conduct comprehensive reviews of some of the peacekeeping operations deployed by UN in Africa, and reform practices that do not fit the situation on the ground, he said.

Arms embargoes imposed by the Security Council on countries such as Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have a negative impact on capacity building of security sectors in these countries, and need to be adjusted and lifted in time. The funding of the African Union-led peace operations has been a persistent difficulty, which calls for a solution, he said.

Zhang underscored the need to support African countries in improving their sustainable development capacities.

At present, the African continent is beset with economic, financial, food, energy and other challenges. These are related to a turbulent international situation, but the underlying cause is the unjust and unfair international economic order.

African countries have expressed strong wishes for the unfair treatment to end, and the international community has the obligation to support them by helping Africa industrialize, accelerate infrastructure modernization, achieve financial autonomy, and increase economic independence, he said.

"Developed countries should honor their commitments on climate financing as soon as possible, and make up for what they owed to Africa in history," he stressed.

Zhang also called for efforts to support African countries in building a bigger talent pool. "The international community should help African countries train more talents based on the urgent needs in reconstruction and social and economic development. There is a particular need to encourage countries affected by conflict to enhance policy support and resource input for youth and children, and expand special assistance in development and education." 

Photo taken on Aug. 8, 2022 shows the scene of a UN Security Council open debate convened by China on the theme "Peace and security in Africa: capacity-building for sustaining peace" at the UN headquarters in New York. Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations and president of the UN Security Council for August, on Monday called on the international community to support Africa in enhancing capacities to secure durable peace in a comprehensive approach. (Xinhua/Xie E)
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The United States' Practice of Forced Labor at Home and Abroad: Truth and Facts

August 2022

Introduction

Over the years, the United States has concocted the biggest lies of the century such as the so-called "genocide" and "forced labor" in Xinjiang, in an attempt to smear and contain China. It has enacted and implemented the "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act", denigrated the human rights situation in Xinjiang and undermined people's livelihood and development of Xinjiang. In fact, the claim of forced labor does not apply at all to Xinjiang. It is instead a chronic disease of the United States that goes all the way back to the founding of the country. It remains rampant today, and is getting worse than ever.

This report records the United States' practice of forced labor at home and abroad from historical and current perspectives. The aim is to clarify facts, debunk lies, and help the world better understand what is forced labor and who is doing that. Let the truth shine through the darkness of lies.

I. There is clear definition of forced labor in international law

Since the 1930s, a series of conventions, protocols and other documents have established clear definition and determination standards of forced labor in international law.

 The core standards of the International Labour Organization (ILO) on forced labor include: Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29, ratified by 179 member states by the end of 2021), the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105, ratified by 176 member states by the end of 2021) and the Protocol of 2014 to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (ratified by 59 member states by the end of 2021).

 According to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930, the term forced labor "shall mean all work or service which is exacted from any person under the menace of any penalty and for which the said person has not offered himself voluntarily." In other words, "involuntariness", "menace of penalty" and "work or service" are three core elements of forced labor.

 According to ILO statistics, the United States has ratified only 14 international labor conventions, one of the lowest numbers among member states. It has ratified only two out of the ten core conventions, and has not yet ratified the Forced Labour Convention, 1930 till this day.

 China has ratified 28 international labor conventions. The Forced Labor Convention, 1930 and the Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 were ratified in April 2022. China faithfully fulfills its obligations under international conventions, and truly protects the rights of workers and prohibits forced labor through legislation and policy formulation and implementation. Forced labor is explicitly prohibited by Chinese law. The crime of forced labor is specified in Article 244 of the Criminal Law. In Xinjiang, workers of all ethnic groups choose jobs according to their own will, and enter into labor contracts with employers and get remuneration and rights and interests in accordance with laws and regulations such as the Labor Law and the Labor Contract Law, and on the basis of equality, voluntariness and consensus. The governments at various levels in Xinjiang also provide necessary job skills training to workers who apply voluntarily. Workers of all ethnic groups are free to choose where they work and what they do. They are never menaced by penalty or restricted in their personal freedom. There is no such thing as forced labor in Xinjiang.

II. Forced labor in the United States was born and grew with the founding of the nation

Slave trade was an original sin of the United States. When the United States was founded, it was the blood and tears of millions of black slaves sold to the country that helped create immense wealth and complete the primitive accumulation of capital.

 For a country with a history of only 246 years, slavery had been legal in the United States for almost one-third of its history. According to the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Database, in the history of slave trade, there were at least 36,000 "slaving expeditions" between 1514 and 1866. And according to German data firm Statista, there were about 700,000 black slaves in the United States in 1790, while by 1860 the number had exceeded 3.95 million, and fewer than 490,000 African Americans were free in the whole nation.

 Black slaves, without adequate food or clothing, were forced to work under harsh conditions at the bottom of society. They were cruelly exploited and many were even tortured to death. Lots of black slaves were forced into the cotton industry. As American writer Edward Baptist wrote in his book The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism, the whip drove the slaves to devote all of their physical strength and most of their energy to cotton picking, making the speed faster and faster. Under the brute force of slave owners, cotton production in the United States by 1860 reached 130 times that of 1800. Behind the rapid increase in cotton production are the blood and tears of black slaves.

 Data shows that the value of labor extracted from black slaves by U.S. slave owners is as high as US$14 trillion at current prices. According to the website of James Madison's Montpelier, the home to the fourth President of the United States James Madison, the slavery economy was once the main engine driving the American economy. Slavery was essential to the U.S. economy from tobacco farming in Virginia to shipbuilding in Rhode Island. In 1850, slaves produced 80 percent of America's exports. Sven Beckert, a historian from Harvard University, said that the United States and the West prospered through slavery, not democracy.

 The Conversation, a nonprofit news organization, noted when tracing the history of slavery in the United States that "criminal slaves" and "real estate slaves" have coexisted since the late 18th century. In Virginia, the state with the most African Americans in jail, prisoners were declared "dead spirits" and "state slaves". It was not until the early 20th century that states stopped leasing criminals to farmers and industrial and commercial operators as cheap labor for railroads, highways and coal mines. In Georgia, a 1907 cessation of renting out criminals led to an economic shock in industries ranging from brick making to mining, and many companies went out of business as a result.

 Archives show that by the end of the 1860s, hundreds of thousands of Chinese workers had taken part in the construction of railways in the U.S. Poor Chinese peasants boarded ships known as "floating hells", where they were packed like sardines, and drifted on the sea for about two months before arriving in California and working as coolies. On these journeys, up to 64.21 percent of the Chinese died due to inhuman treatment, typhoons or infectious diseases. Those who survived became the target of racial discrimination and whipping from white supervisors. It took them only seven years to build a railway originally planned as a 14-year project. As some historians put it, the bones of Chinese laborers could be found under every sleeper of the railway.

III. The United States has a horrible track record of forced labor

Over the years, the U.S. government has deliberately evaded its responsibility for labor protection, resulting in "slave labor" among prisoners in private prisons, rampant use of child labor, and appalling forced labor in the agriculture sector, effectively making America a country of "modern slavery".

1.Forced labor is rampant in U.S. prisons

 The United States is a country of prisons in every sense. According to a report by the Prison Policy Initiative, 2 million inmates are held in 102 federal prisons, 1,566 state prisons, 2,850 local jails, 1,510 juvenile correctional facilities, 186 immigration detention facilities, and 82 Indian country jails, as well as in military prisons and other facilities in the United States. With less than five percent of global population, the United States holds a quarter of the world's detainees, making it the country with the largest imprisoned population and highest imprisonment rate.

 The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, while nominally protecting citizens from forced labor, excludes criminals. The U.S. prison system abuses the 13th Amendment to legalize forced labor among prisoners. In prisons at the federal and sub-national levels, there are a large number of incarcerated workers engaged in the daily maintenance of the prison system, including repairs, cooking, facility cleaning and laundry. Most of them are black or other people of color. Some prisoners are leased to public projects or employed by businesses in construction, road maintenance, forestry and funeral services, jobs that are considered dirty, heavy-duty or high-risk. According to Reuters, Suniva, one of the largest U.S. solar panel makers, uses prison labor to keep costs down. The head of the company has admitted to working with the Federal Prison Industries (UNICOR) in the relocation of production lines from Asia back to the United States for a lucrative federal contract.

 According to a report by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), at least 30 U.S. states include prisoners as a labor source for disasters and other emergency operations, and at least 14 hire prisoners for forest firefighting. Most incarcerated workers say they have never received any formal job training and often have to conduct dangerous operations against safety protocols and without protective equipment. Casualties, which are not uncommon, often go unrecorded by the prisons. The Atlantic commented in 2015 that "convict leasing was cheaper than slavery, since farm owners and companies did not have to worry about the health of their workers."

 The United States has effectively formed a sprawling "prison-industrial complex". Private prisons operating under contracts with the government have become a major source of forced labor in the United States. Incarcerated workers in private prisons are entirely at the mercy of their employers and have no right to refuse to work. As high as 76 percent of the inmates interviewed reported various punishments when they were unable or unwilling to work, including solitary confinement, reduction of family visits, or denial of bail or commutation. Besides, prisoners have no choice in their work assignments which are entirely based on the arbitrary, discriminatory or even punitive decisions by prison management personnel. Laura Appleman, a professor at the College of Law of Willamette University, points out in her report Bloody Lucre: Carceral Labor and Prison Profit that private prison is a "pernicious form of servitude", and that prisoners are "trapped in the service of endlessly increasing profit, the literal revenues of physical toil, suffering, and exploitation."

 For years, private prisons in the United States have colluded with greedy politicians to force prisoners to work, thus turning private prisons into "concentration camps" of slavery where they could make fortunes by exploiting the poor. Due to lack of oversight, prisoners of forced labor work long hours in harsh conditions while getting paid little, or in some cases, nothing at all. In early 2022, the ACLU filed a lawsuit, exposing the pervasive power-for-money dealings in the operation of detention facilities in American private prisons, which exacerbate excessive imprisonment and forced labor, and demanding that the U.S. Marshals Service provide information about operators' contracts and make it public.

 American prisons spend less than one percent of their budget on paying incarcerated workers, who produce goods and services worth more than US$11 billion every year. Big American corporations use prison labor rampantly, as prisoners have no labor rights and are cheap. Private prisons under contracts with the government make millions of dollars a year from forced labor in prison. As of May 2022, average hourly wage in the United States was about US$10.96, while incarcerated workers were paid less than one dollar per hour. Moreover, many prison facilities have not given prisoners any pay raise for years or even decades. In seven states including Florida, prisoners are not paid at all for most of their work assignments. In addition, the wages of many prisoners are withheld by prisons for "taxes, room and board expenses, and court costs". Over 70 percent of respondents said they were unable to afford basic necessities during imprisonment.

 During the COVID-19 pandemic, at least 40 U.S. states asked prison inmates to manufacture masks, hand sanitizers and other protective equipment, dispose of large amounts of medical waste from hospitals, move corpses, build coffins and dig graves. The inmates who performed these high-risk tasks hardly got the necessary protection. Since the start of the pandemic, nearly one third of the incarcerated people in the United States have contracted COVID-19, and 3,000 of them have died from inadequate health care or poor detention conditions. The Los Angeles Times revealed that during the pandemic, thousands of prisoners in California were forced to make masks and furniture under high-risk conditions. Prison factories kept running despite the numerous confirmed COVID cases. The inmates had to sew thousands of masks a day, without getting one for themselves. Prison staff threatened postponed release date if inmates refuse to do the work.

2.Forced labor of women and children is appalling

 Child labor has long been an issue in the United States. American mines, tobacco farms and textile factories started hiring and exploiting children since over a century ago. To date, the United States remains the only one of the 193 member states of the United Nations (UN) that has not ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and child labor remains an unresolved problem in the country. Statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other institutions show that half of the 100,000 people trafficked into the United States each year for forced labor are minors.

 According to estimates by the nonprofit organization Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs, there remain about 500,000 child farm workers in the United States, many of which started working at the age of eight and work up to 72 hours a week. These child farm workers are regularly exposed to dangerous chemicals such as pesticides. In addition, they are at a greater risk of work-related injuries due to the need of operating sharp tools and heavy machines without necessary training and protection measures. According to the U.S. National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, an estimated 907 youth fatalities happened on U.S. farms between 1995 and 2002. The Washington Post reported that about 452 children died of workplace injuries in the United States between 2003 and 2016, including 237 child fatalities in agriculture. A U.S. Government Accountability Office report in November 2018 shows that around 5.5 percent of child labor is in agriculture and accounted for over 50 percent of all work-related child fatalities. In several U.S. states, tobacco farms employ a large number of children to harvest and dry tobacco leaves, posing a significant risk to their physical and mental health. Many children suffered from nicotine poisoning and some were even diagnosed with lung infection.

 According to official statistics, in 2019 alone, U.S. law enforcement officers found 858 cases of child labor in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act, and 544 minors were found working in hazardous places. The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, the largest federation of unions in the United States, said that the Department of Labor (DOL) only reported 34 child labor violations on annual average, far lower than the real number, revealing deficiency in DOL's law enforcement.

 The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported that 240,000 to 325,000 women and children are at risk for sexual exploitation each year in the United States. American NGO End Slavery Now said a child trafficked to the sex industry "works" 12 hours a day and seven days a week, and perpetrators can exploit US$150,000 to 200,000 each year.

3. Forced labor is prevalent in numerous sectors in the United States

 An article published on the website of the University of Denver reveals that at least 500,000 people in the United States are living under modern slavery and victims of forced labor. With pervasive forced labor, labor trafficking in the United States is particularly serious in 23 sectors including domestic services, agricultural planting, tourism, catering, medical care and beauty services. In 2004, after studying relevant cases from 1998 to 2003, the Human Rights Center at the University of California, Berkeley, pointed out that ten thousand or more people work as forced laborers in scores of cities and towns across the country, forming an illicit trade that is hidden, inhumane, widespread and criminal.

 The existing U.S. immigration law is breeding modern slavery. The temporary visa system of the United States binds foreign workers with their employers by law, leaving them in a vulnerable position, as workers, for fear of deportation, dare not quit their jobs even if employers arbitrarily lower their wages or extend working hours. The asymmetry between employers and employees is systemic, and there is evidence that connects forced labor in the United States to certain visa types. A 2014 study by the Urban Institute and Northeastern University shows that more than 70 percent of the interviewed victims of forced labor entered the United States legally with a visa. Ending this form of modern slavery requires reform of U.S. immigration law. However, both the Congress and the administration lack the will to do such reform.

 Most of the sweatshops in the United States are headquartered in major cities like New York and Los Angeles. These shops usually make garment, coffee and electronic products. The DOL estimated that as many as 22,000 sweatshops in the country were in the garment industry alone. In order to minimize cost and maximize profit, sweatshop owners exploit legal loopholes by various means to evade government regulation. Workers get wages and benefits far below legal thresholds and are not paid accordingly for working long and extra hours. In extreme cases, they are even abused by employers. According to a DOL investigation report obtained by The New York Times, Vietnamese workers at a garment factory in American Samoa were routinely beaten by factory guards, and a female worker lost her left eye after a guard beat her with a pipe. Indian workers at a food factory in Oklahoma were constantly provided with inadequate food. Many workers at the factory suffered serious malnutrition and looked like "walking skeletons".

 In the domestic services sector, the vast majority of service personnel are immigrants and are not recognized as employees by American law. According to the U.S. immigration policy, they are not allowed to freely change their clients, or they will be deported. Most of the victims work in very poor conditions. They often cannot get their wages on time and are paid below the minimum rate. They are subject to violence, sexual assault and intimidation from employers and their families, and are prohibited from complaining to anyone, otherwise they will face deportation. According to the 2014 report of the Urban Institute and Northeastern University, more than one third of the victims of forced labor in the United States are domestic servants.

 In the agricultural sector, about 30 percent of farm workers and their families live below the federal poverty line. They are subject to threatening, violence and forced labor, and unable to express their wishes. The town of Immokalee in southwest Florida is known as the "tomato town" of the United States. It has a population of around 26,000 people, most of whom are farmers from countries including Mexico, Guatemala and Haiti. The local minimum wage is US$8.65 per hour. Yet those farm workers are only paid US$5.5 per hour, far lower than the minimum rate.

According to a survey by The Guardian, foreign workers of American corn farms are not protected by law. They live in extremely poor conditions and are paid only US$225 after working 12 hours a day for 15 days. They often fall victim to sexual assault, harassment, wage theft and work injuries or even fatal accidents in work places, and are often exposed to hazardous chemicals.

Independent journalist Gina-Marie Cheeseman pointed out in her 2017 report Forced Labor is More Common in the U.S. Than You Might Think that in some U.S. farms, foreign workers are forced to sleep in shacks and box trucks, and are asked to pick farm products without being paid. Those who attempt to escape get beaten up.

According to a report by the American Economic Policy Institute, seasonal agricultural workers in the United States are vulnerable to wage theft and other abuses due to their immigration status and fear of retaliation and deportation. Millions of dollars of wage arrears are reported every year. The Wage and Hour Division of the DOL is too underfunded and understaffed to provide adequate protection and relief for agricultural workers. As a result, those workers believe it is neither necessary nor helpful to report employer violations to the DOL.

 According to a 2015 survey by The New York Times on the nail industry in New York, the vast majority of workers in the nail industry are paid below the minimum wage and sometimes even not paid at all. Those workers are seriously exploited and subject to various kinds of humiliation including constant video monitoring and physical punishment. Most of these workers are immigrants from China, the ROK, Nepal and South America. They often work overtime with very low wages. Without legal residential status, many nail industry workers in New York, though being exploited by their employees, are often too scared to report.

 Denise Brennan, a U.S. writer, noted in her book that the U.S. immigration policy, instead of redressing the problem of human trafficking and improving the situation of vulnerable groups in society, has exacerbated social problems and allowed more disguised forms of forced labor to appear in American society. American society does not provide enough support and relief to victims who were freed from forced labor, leaving them voluntarily falling into new traps of forced labor just to make a living, and forever haunted by a vicious cycle of enslavement and oppression.

 According to the 2021 Federal Human Trafficking Report published by the Human Trafficking Institute of the United States in June 2022, the number of criminal forced labor cases filed in 2021 increased by 22 percent since 2020. Of the 449 victims in human trafficking cases filed to federal courts in the United States in 2021, 162 or 36 percent were victims of forced labor. And 93 percent of identified victims in forced labor cases were foreign nationals.

IV. The spillover effect of forced labor in the United States is felt worldwide

The widespread negative impact of forced labor in the United States has caused serious transnational human trafficking and human rights violations in other countries. The United States is an underperformer in the ratification and implementation of international labor conventions, which matches its long-standing poor record of forced labor and labor rights violations.

1.Forced labor leads to transnational human trafficking

 The United States is a source, transit hub, and destination country for victims of forced labor and slavery. Both legal and illegal industries in the United States have serious human trafficking problems. According to the U.S. Department of State, up to 100,000 people are trafficked to the United States annually and fall victim to forced labor. In the past five years, cases of forced labor and human trafficking were reported in all the 50 U.S. states and Washington D.C. According to statistics released by the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the number of reported cases increased significantly from over 3,200 in 2012 to about 11,500 in 2019. In 2020, 10,583 cases were reported, involving 16,658 victims.

Modern slavery featuring forced labor is widely seen in U.S. hotels, restaurants, massage parlors, farms, construction businesses, and domestic services industries. The victims are mostly new immigrants, children, women and other vulnerable groups. Means such as physical and mental abuses, threatening and humiliation are widely used to control the victims.

 According to a joint statement issued in April 2021 by the UNHRC Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights and the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the U.S. government forced foreign individuals to work with it by threatening to use sanctions, indicating a situation of forced labor and rights and interests violation. Urmila Bhoola, the UNHRC Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery pointed out in her 2018 report that cases of forced labor, bonded labor, sexual violence and threats of deportation against female migrant workers were discovered in several tomato farms in the United States.

 As highlighted by the Report on Human Rights Violations in the United States in 2021, tighter U.S. immigration policies, combined with weak supervision at home, have exacerbated human smuggling and labor trafficking targeting immigrants. Citing an indictment released in November, 2021 by the U.S. Department of Justice, the report reveals that dozens of workers from Mexico and Central American countries were smuggled to farms in the State of Georgia, where they were illegally imprisoned and forced to work under grueling conditions. These victims of modern-day slavery, under the threat of guns and violence, were required to dig onions with their bare hands for only 20 cents per bucket. At least two of the workers died and one suffered from multiple sexual assaults.

 Besides harsh working conditions, cruel management, confiscation of personal documents and restrictions on freedom are also typical features of forced labor cases. In 2021, the Associated Press reported that hundreds of Indian workers were lured to build a massive Hindu temple in New Jersey. Their passports were taken away on arrival and they were forced to work over 87 hours a week for US$1.2 an hour, while New Jersey's minimum hourly wage was US$12. Reuters reported that Goodyear, an American company and the world's largest tire maker, was sued multiple times by foreign workers at its Malaysian factory, for accusations of unpaid wages, unlawful overtime and the denial of their full access to their own passports. According to the workers' lawyer, some migrants worked 229 hours a month in overtime, far exceeding the Malaysian limit of 104 hours.

 The U.S. law enforcement clearly have not done enough to crack down on human trafficking and forced labor. According to the Report on Human Trafficking Data Collection Activities, 2021 released by the U.S. Department of Justice, a total of 2,091 persons were referred to U.S. Attorneys for human-trafficking and forced labor offenses in 2019, but only 837 were convicted. Chrissey Buckley, a scholar at the University of Denver, points out that forced labor lingers on in the United States because it is a lucrative business, and because inadequate legislation and inefficient law enforcement diminish the risks of prosecution of the offenders.

2. U.S. companies have long practiced forced labor abroad

 In 2019, the Washington Post disclosed that in almost the past two decades, a number of U.S. chocolate giants including Mars and Hershey had been using raw cocoa harvested by child workers in West Africa. More than two million cocoa workers are children earning less than US$1 a day. UK's Channel 4 revealed in 2020 that the coffee beans used by Starbucks and other famous U.S. coffee companies were picked by workers aged under 13 in Guatemala. These children worked eight hours a day, over 40 hours a week, and the youngest was only eight. Their daily wage sometimes is only about the price of a cup of coffee.

V. The international community has long been criticizing forced labor in the United States

Long being seriously concerned about forced labor in the United States, the international community has been calling on the U.S. government to earnestly reflect on and address relevant issues.

 Child labor in America's agricultural sector has been an indelible stain on the U.S. track record of implementing International Labor Conventions (ICLs), in particular the fundamental conventions. It is also the most prominent concern of the ILO standards supervisory mechanism regarding U.S. implementation of conventions. Since 2012, the Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) has repeatedly expressed concerns over fatal work-related injuries and accidents suffered by children under 18 working on U.S. farms. During the 103rd Session of the International Labor Conference in 2014, the Committee on the Application of Standards (CAS) had a detailed discussion on U.S. violations of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999.

 In addition, over the past decade, the CEACR has commented on the U.S. compliance with the Abolition of Forced Labor Convention, 1957 and the Shipowners' Liability (Sick and Injured Seamen) Convention, 1936, urging the U.S. government to reverse its inappropriate practices and earnestly fulfill its obligations. The CEACR pointed out in 2017 that the U.S. government should adopt federal legislation to ensure that racial discrimination does not lead to racial disparities in the punishment involving compulsory labor in the criminal justice system, and should take necessary measures at the federal level to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in the criminal justice system to ensure that the punishment involving compulsory labor is not meted out more severely to certain racial and ethnic groups.

 In her statement made in 2016 after visiting the United States, the then UN Special Rapporteur in Trafficking in Persons Maria Grazia Giammarinaro urged the United States to engage in a more effective effort to detect trafficking for forced labor and labor exploitation. The statement cited data in 2015 that 75 percent of trafficking cases in the United States were related to sex deals, 13 percent labor trafficking, and 3 percent both. Women and girls, migrant workers, unaccompanied and homeless children, people fleeing conflict, runaway youth, Native Americans and the LGBTI individuals are particularly vulnerable to labor and sex trafficking and exploitation.

Conclusion

In disregard of its own enormous problems of forced labor and modern slavery in the past and present, the United States willfully discredits other countries and spreads lies about "forced labor". This reveals nothing but its hypocrisy and double standards on human rights, and its modus operandi of using human rights as a pretext for political manipulation and economic bullying.

The "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act" pushed by the United States is not an act of care and concern over the alleged "forced labor" in Xinjiang. It aims to deprive the people in Xinjiang of their right to work by creating "forced unemployment", destroy the livelihoods of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang by creating "forced poverty", and disrupt international economic and trade order and industrial and supply chains by creating "forced decoupling". What the United States has been doing is, in essence, violating human rights under the pretext of human rights, defying rules under the banner of rules, and breaking the law under the guise of law. Such attempts that go against the trend of the times are doomed to failure.

What the U.S. government should do is to stop styling itself as a "lecturer" on human rights, review its own spotty record on forced labor, stop spreading rumors and lies, stop interfering in China's internal affairs, stop implementing the "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act", and stop "using Xinjiang to contain China."
Aerial photo taken on Sept. 16, 2019 shows the China-funded overpass in Ulan Bator, Mongolia. (Photo by Xu Bin/Xinhua)

The two sides agreed to promote cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, investment, mining and energy, science and technology, agriculture and animal husbandry.



ULAN BATOR, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- China and Mongolia have reached a wide range of consensuses during the visit of Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Ulan Bator on Sunday and Monday.

When meeting the press together with Mongolian Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh after holding talks here on Monday, Wang said that he has witnessed encouraging changes in Ulan Bator since his last visit two years ago and felt the vitality of the vast grassland.

As a friendly neighbor, China is truly glad to see the rapid progress made by Mongolia and is full of expectations for its development and revitalization, he added.

A Chinese medical expert (R) examines a child in Ulan Bator, Mongolia, June 25, 2019. (Xinhua/Suriya)



Wang expounded on the consensuses reached by two sides during his visit.

Both countries believed that in the face of the current complicated and ever-changing international and regional situation, China and Mongolia are closely connected with a shared future so they should be good neighbors more valuable than gold, good brothers sharing weal and woe and good partners striving for common development.

The two sides are willing to deepen the three alignments between the Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolia's Prairie Road development strategy, the Global Development Initiative and Mongolia's New Revival Policy, and China's "two-stage" strategic plan and Mongolia's long-term development policy, so as to create three engines for further development of bilateral relations.

Both sides reaffirmed respect for each other's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and firm mutual support on issues regarding each other's core interests.

China supports Mongolia in maintaining stability, focusing on development and exploring a development path in line with its national conditions. China appreciates that Mongolia reaffirms its commitment to the one-China principle and opposes interference in China's internal affairs concerning Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang and Hong Kong, among others.

Photo taken on May 23, 2019 shows agriculture machinery received from China in Ulan Bator, capital of Mongolia. (Xinhua/Asigang)

The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation at the border, and facilitate the reopening of ports and connection of railways and highways to the largest possible extent so as to keep the industrial and supply chains stable and unimpeded.

The two sides signed a memorandum on cross-border railway transportation at the Gants Mod port, which will play an important role in helping Mongolia expand its opening-up and achieve strong growth.

The two sides agreed to promote cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, investment, mining and energy, science and technology, agriculture and animal husbandry, build major demonstration projects in areas including infrastructure and energy, and strive to achieve coordinated development and common prosperity.

China and Mongolia pledged to push ahead with the construction of the Erdeneburen hydropower plant in a coordinated manner and work faster to address the electricity supply for people in western Mongolia.

The two countries voiced their support for the early implementation of livelihood projects including renovating shanty-town areas, and building sewage treatment and meat processing plants.

Photo taken on Jan. 24, 2019 shows the exterior of the China-aided development center for children with disabilities in the Mongolian capital Ulan Bator. (Xinhua/Asigang)

The two sides will enhance cooperation in afforestation and desertification control. China appreciates Mongolia's plan to plant one billion trees and China has also proposed planting 70 billion trees in the next 10 years. China hopes that the two countries support each other in greening their homeland and safeguarding the green land and blue sky.

China and Mongolia also agreed to continue the cooperation to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and protect lives. They will increase direct flights between the two countries to facilitate personnel exchanges. China supports Mongolian students in returning to China to resume classes at an early date. They agreed to strengthen youth exchanges and sub-national cooperation to consolidate bilateral friendship.

The two sides agreed to strengthen coordination in international and regional affairs, uphold true multilateralism and open regionalism, push forward the implementation of the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, so as to jointly promote the development and prosperity of Asia and build a community with a shared future for mankind. 
File photo shows Mozambique's President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi addressing the media in Gaborone, Botswana on April 13, 2022. (Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua)

Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi has called on the youth to keep away from crimes, saying the government, fully aware of the economic challenges, seeks to boost youth employment with vocational and training programs.

MAPUTO, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi called on Monday the youth of the country to reject invitations of joining terrorist groups or illegal activities in face of the difficulties in finding jobs and the high cost of living.

The president was speaking to representatives from all over Mozambique during the launching ceremony of the country's seventh National Youth Conference in Maputo, where he saluted the young soldiers defending the nation against terrorists at the front line in the northern province of Cabo Delgado.

Nyusi said that the current situation, which is marked by several adverse phenomena, calls on the young people to adopt a more patriotic and innovative attitude in seeking solutions, focusing on development.

"Challenges should never stimulate our youths to think and embrace illicit acts or joining terrorism acts and different crimes that can lead to the destruction of their country and future," said the president.

Nyusi said his executive is fully aware of the challenges the youth is going through, and actions to find job generation solutions are in place such as vocational training and technical training programs targeting the youth to overcome these difficulties.

The objective is to enable the young people to create self-employment or access job opportunities in various development projects, he said.

Representing the youth, the Chairperson of the National Youth Council Emilia Chambal called for more young people to be involved in the decision-making process.

"We can make a difference; however, we need the government and partners to pay more attention to the needs and potential of us," said Emilia. 
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping recently replied to a letter from teachers and students of the China Corner of St. Margaret College Secondary School in Malta, encouraging more Maltese youth to actively participate in people-to-people and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

In his letter, Xi said thanks to efforts from both sides, the China Corner of the school has contributed positively to increasing knowledge about China among the Maltese youth and promoting the China-Malta friendship.

Xi wished the China Corner even greater success in the future, and welcomed faculty members and students to China for exchanges and study.

Peace and harmony amongst all states has been a long-held wonderful aspiration of the Chinese nation for the human society, Xi said, adding that it is also the cultural root of the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind.

"We live in a world where history and reality meet, where opportunities and challenges coexist, and where humanity as a whole rise or fall together. Countries must assist each other in times of need and choose win-win cooperation if we are to share in the fruits of development," he noted.

Xi said for the purpose of tackling global development and international security challenges, China has put forward the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, and the Global Security Initiative.

It is a concrete step on the part of China to galvanize consensus and strength to put the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind into action, Xi added. 
A seminar is held to mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC) by Egypt-China Friendship Association in Cairo, Egypt, on April 4, 2021. (Xinhua/Ahmed Gomaa)

CAIRO, April 6 (Xinhua) -- Egypt-China Friendship Association held a seminar on Sunday here to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

The seminar was attended by Egyptian experts on Chinese affairs, writers, diplomats, and professors of Chinese studies at Egyptian universities.

During his speech, former Egyptian diplomat and Chairman of Egypt-China Friendship Association Ahmed Waly said that leading China, the CPC has succeeded in many endeavors including eradicating illiteracy, building infrastructures, eliminating poverty, and promoting gender equality.

The party has always been driving the changes and development in the country and has been developing with it simultaneously, the former diplomat noted.

On a video call, Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Liao Liqiang thanked Waly for organizing the event, expressing his appreciation for the friendship between China and Egypt.

"Under the leadership of the CPC, China's economic output has stayed the second in the world for years and has become the world's largest manufacturing country," he said.

The ambassador noted that over 40 years of reform and opening up, the contribution rate of China's economic growth to the world averaged 18 percent, and has reached as high as 30 percent in recent years.

The seminar focused on integrated development "because China's experience in this field during the last four decades teaches us many lessons," said Ali el-Hefny, Egypt's former ambassador to China and former deputy foreign minister.

Countries including Egypt can benefit from China's experiences in mutual cooperation, "as well as through the Belt and Road Initiative, which has positively impacted the global economy although it was launched a few years ago," he said.

"The CPC is behind all the achievements made, and those that are being made, in China," el-Hefny said. Enditem
YAOUNDE, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- At least three separatist fighters were killed when they launched offensives against military camps in Oku, a subdivision in Cameroon's war-torn English-speaking region of Northwest, locals and security sources confirmed on Monday.

The attack on Sunday was led by a separatist commander who calls himself "No Pity", a senior army official in the region who asked not to be named told Xinhua.

Heavily armed separatist fighters attacked the camps in the locality on several fronts during the day-long battle but were later repelled by soldiers who killed three of them and dumped the bodies in a public place, the official said.

"No pity" himself, a key commander of the separatist movement in Cameroon who has ambushed and killed several soldiers, was wounded during the attack but he succeeded to escape, the official said.

It is the second time in less than two weeks that the separatist commander has unsuccessfully launched attacks against government forces in the region, according to security reports.

Cameroon's Anglophone regions of Northwest and Southwest have been ravaged by a five-year armed separatist conflict after separatists declared the "independence" of the regions in 2017. 
QUITO, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Ecuador on Monday confirmed three new cases of monkeypox, raising the country's total number of cases to 10, including one fatality, the Public Health Ministry said.

"One person died on Monday as a result of his pre-existing ailments," the ministry said in a release.

The three new cases were detected in people aged 20 to 49 "following epidemiological surveillance" in the provinces of Santa Elena, Los Rios and Azuay, said the ministry, adding all were in stable condition at home and under medical supervision.

The ministry urged the public to continue preventive health measures, such as using a face mask, and to visit the nearest clinic or hospital in case of monkeypox symptoms, including fever, malaise and skin lesions.

Ecuador detected its first case of the virus on July 6 in a 30-year-old man in Guayaquil.

So far, there has been no community transmission of monkeypox in the South American country, according to health authorities, who have implemented measures to prevent the spread of the disease. 
A woman holds bottles of water as she walks past the Pantheon in Rome, Italy, on Aug. 2, 2022. (Xinhua/Jin Mamengni)

Many countries have reported temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius, including Portugal, which recorded a new high of 47 degrees Celsius earlier during this heatwave.

Temperatures in Italy for the period between January and July were 0.98 degrees Celsius above average for the period starting in 1800

ROME, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- The most severe heatwave in recent memory has held its grip on most of Europe as of Monday, with record high temperatures registered in multiple countries causing severe economic and health damage.

The spell of unusually hot and dry weather has caused wildfires in Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Greece and elsewhere. In Spain, more than 4,000 hectares of land has been burnt in wildfires, while across Europe tens of thousands have been forced to flee their homes, media reports said.

The heat and lack of water has reportedly caused many deaths across Europe, either through heat stroke or other means. Many countries have reported temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius, including Portugal, which recorded a new high of 47 degrees Celsius earlier during this heatwave.

In Italy, 19 cities were on red alert as of Monday, meaning the temperature and weather conditions were so severe and long lasting they could impact the well-being of healthy individuals.

A woman shelters from the sun with umbrella during hot weather at the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, June 17, 2022. (Photo by Alberto Lingria/Xinhua)

The Institute of Atmosphere and Climate Science of Italy's National Research Council said last week that this year is on pace to be the hottest and driest year on record dating back to 1800. Temperatures in the country for the period between January and July were 0.98 degrees Celsius above average for the period starting in 1800, while in July average temperatures were 2.26 degrees Celsius above normal, according to the institute.

Though there is no comprehensive data available yet, the hot and dry weather is estimated in media reports to have caused billions of euros in losses from agricultural production in the worst-hit European countries.

In Greece, France, and Italy, the weather is expected to reduce the production of olive oil, leading to a surge in prices. In France, the 2022 wine production is expected to suffer in terms of quantity and quality, while Italy is expected to also see the production of corn and animal feed decrease.

The weather-related developments in Europe come amid already significant pressure on world food prices due to increases in fuel prices and other supply chain issues intensified by the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Another economic area being hit hard in Europe is tourism, which is struggling to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the hot and dry weather, reports are that this summer is the strongest for tourism in Europe since 2019. But according to Stefano Brindisi, a director of tour company operator Expedia, which operates in most of European countries, the heat is a major point of concern.

"There are many inquiries about the impacts of the heat on travel plans that might date back many months," Brindisi told Xinhua. "For many travelers coming to Europe, this summer is the first major trip since before the pandemic."

"Some people have delayed plans or changed to northern European destinations where the heat is less intense. It's clear it's something people worry about and are adjusting to," Brindisi said. "There's no doubt that it's limiting the upside of the tourism sector recovery."

A woman cools off with water during hot weather at the Barcaccia fountain in Rome, Italy, June 17, 2022. (Photo by Alberto Lingria/Xinhua)
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu on Tuesday took questions from the press on Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan.

Q1: Over the past few days, U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan has caused strong public outrage in China. What's your take on this?

Ma: This is just a political farce, and a dangerous, malicious provocation. Speaker Pelosi made this provocative visit in disregard of China's warning. The visit infringed on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity; violated the one-China principle and provisions in the three China-U.S. joint communiques; affected the political foundation of China-U.S. relations; and undermined peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. It is unacceptable to the Chinese people. China has every reason to respond with countermeasures. The incident is also a lesson, revealing to the world U.S. motives to contain China with Taiwan and the intention of the Taiwan authorities to seek American support for independence. In its aftermath, the one-China consensus of the international community emerged stronger, and the U.S. attempt to play the "Taiwan card" and contain China proved more unpopular and futile.

Q2: The U.S. claims that there is no change to its one-China policy and that Pelosi's visit does not violate the one-China policy. How would you respond to that?

Ma: The one-China principle is the consensus of the international community. It is also the political foundation on which China develops relations with other countries. It is a red line that must not be crossed. What does one China mean? There can only be one answer. That is, there is but one China in the world, Taiwan is part of China, and the Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. This is a basic norm of international relations confirmed by UNGA Resolution 2758. It is a commitment made by the U.S. in the three China-U.S. joint communiques. The principle, written down in black and white, is crystal clear. There is no room for ambiguity or arbitrary interpretation.

The U.S. claims that there is no change in its one-China policy. But in fact, it has been undermining the one-China principle over the years. It has put into its one-China policy some unilateral stuff, including the "Taiwan Relations Act" and the "Six Assurances." This is against international law. China never accepts it, and is always opposed to it.

The U.S. also claims that Pelosi's visit does not violate the one-China policy. The three joint communiques provide that the U.S. can only maintain cultural, commercial and other unofficial relations with Taiwan. The executive, legislative and judicial branches are all part of the U.S. Government. Pelosi is the number three figure in the U.S. Government. During her stay in Taiwan, she was speaking on behalf of the U.S. from the beginning to the end. Even she herself admits that it is an official visit. If this is not official engagement, then what is it?

Q3: The U.S. claims that the change to the status quo that's prevailed with regard to Taiwan for more than 40 years is coming from Beijing, not from the U.S. What is your view on this?

Ma: So what is the status quo of the Taiwan Strait? The status quo is that both sides of the Strait belong to one and the same China, Taiwan is part of China, and neither China's sovereignty nor its territorial integrity is ever divided. It is not China who is changing the status quo, but the U.S. and the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.

Over the years, the U.S. has been colluding with the Taiwan authorities, and elevating its substantive relations with Taiwan. It has sold large amounts of weapons to Taiwan, helped it develop so-called "asymmetric capabilities," and emboldened the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces. If these are not changing the status quo, what are they?

Refusing to recognize the 1992 Consensus, the DPP authorities have insisted on pushing for "incremental independence," and redoubled efforts to remove the Chinese identity of Taiwan. If these are not changing the status quo, what are they?

China's countermeasures are a necessary and legitimate response to the provocations by the U.S. and the "Taiwan independence" forces. They are just and lawful.

Q4: The U.S. says it will not seek and does not want a crisis, and China should take full responsibility for the current escalation of tensions in the Taiwan Strait. What is your take on this?

Ma: This is confounding black and white. The crisis is unilaterally provoked by the U.S. Despite China's many representations, the U.S. still allowed Pelosi to visit Taiwan. Faced with this, China has no choice but to fight back and defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The responsibility and consequence of the current tensions have to be borne by the U.S. and the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.

Q5: The U.S. claims that China's military exercise and crossing of the median line of the Taiwan Strait are overreaction that has escalated the situation and threatened regional peace and stability. What is your take?

Ma: It is the U.S. that is threatening peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan is part of China's territory. There is no such thing as a median line in the Strait. The Chinese armed forces conduct military exercises in waters off China's Taiwan island to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity of China. Our measures are open and proportionate. They are in line with both domestic law and international law and practices. They are beyond reproach.

The U.S. and its allies often come to the adjacent waters of China, flexing muscles and stirring up troubles. They conduct up to a hundred military exercises each year. They, instead of someone else, are the ones that overreact and escalate the situation.

Q6: The U.S. claims that China's decision to suspend cooperation with the U.S. in multiple areas does not punish Washington but the whole world. What is your comment?

Ma: The U.S. cannot represent the whole world. China has warned the U.S. well in advance that should Pelosi visit Taiwan, it would cause a crisis and major disruptions to China-U.S. exchange and cooperation. Unfortunately, the U.S. side ignored that, and went ahead with the visit. The Taiwan question is at the very heart of China's core interests. The United States, while undermining China's core interests, is asking for China's cooperation where they need it. What kind of logic is this? China's decision to cancel or suspend cooperation in some areas does not come without warning. We say what we mean and mean what we say. There is no reason why the U.S. should feel surprised or upset.

Let me stress this: As a responsible major country, China will, as always, take an active part in international cooperation on climate change and other matters. We make our own contribution to the tackling of global challenges. What the U.S. should do is to fulfill its international responsibilities and obligations. It should stop making excuses for its own mistakes.

Q7: Some in the U.S. compare China's military drills in the Taiwan Strait to Russia's "invasion of Ukraine," which they claim will be denounced by the international community. What is your comment on that?

Ma: Such a claim is ill-intentioned. The Taiwan question is entirely China's internal affair. It is different from the Ukraine issue. The U.S. always stokes tension and provokes troubles. Preliminary numbers show that between the end of the Second World War and 2001, there were 248 armed conflicts in 153 regions across the world, among which 201 were initiated by the U.S. Since 2001, wars and military operations launched by the U.S. have resulted in over 800,000 deaths and tens of millions displaced from home. After starting so many wars and killing so many civilians to preserve its hegemony, the U.S. is now creating troubles in the Taiwan Strait. How could we possibly allow this to happen?

Q8: A few days ago, the G7 foreign ministers issued a statement regarding Taiwan with negative language, expressing so-called "concern" over China's actions. Meanwhile we see an increasing number of countries and international organizations speaking out in support of China's justified measures. What is your take?

Ma: More than 170 countries and many international organizations have spoken up for what is right, reaffirming their commitment to the one-China principle and expressing support for China in defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Both the President of the UN General Assembly and the UN Secretary-General have stated that the UN will continue to adhere to UNGA Resolution 2758, the centerpiece of which is the one-China principle. Compared with over 170 countries, what do G7 think they are? Who cares what they say?

Q9: The U.S. claims that if China continues to take more countermeasures, the U.S. will be forced to respond, which may lead to a spiral of escalation. What is your view on what may happen next?

Ma: It has been proved time and again that the U.S. is the biggest troublemaker of cross-Strait peace and regional stability. If the international community allows the U.S. to do what it wants, the UN Charter will be just a sheet of paper, and the law of the jungle will prevail. In the end, it will be the developing countries that suffer.

The Chinese people are not to be misled by fallacies or scared by evils, and will never waver in defending our core interests. We want to stress to the U.S.: Do not act recklessly, and stop going further down on the doomed path. Give up the attempt to use Taiwan to contain China, play no games but return to the one-China principle and the three joint communiques, and do right things and take concrete steps to facilitate the steady development of China-U.S. relations. 
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- China's internet watchdog on Tuesday said it had intensified a crackdown on illegal online information that may lead to speculation and fraud involving cryptocurrency.

The move since earlier this year was aimed at protecting people's property, according to the Cyberspace Administration of China.

While urging leading online platforms to fulfill their responsibilities in presenting content, the administration shut down 989 accounts on Weibo, WeChat and Baidu's online community service, which misled internet users to invest in cryptocurrency, as well as virtual or digital assets.

The administration, in joint efforts with other competent authorities, also closed 105 websites hyping cryptocurrency or releasing information concerning cross-border speculation on and mining of cryptocurrency.

While pledging continuous efforts to curb illegal activities involving digital currency, the administration also cautioned internet users against cryptocurrency speculation. 
ISTANBUL, Aug. 25 (Xinhua) -- As the Syrian army prepares to retake the Idlib province from radical groups, analysts are warning about Turkey facing the threat of mass migration and dealing with armed rebels who may also attempt to cross the border into Turkey.

Turkey is confronted with a huge problem that is almost impossible to settle in a fully satisfactory way, Haldun Solmazturk, a former army general, told Xinhua.

Having largely cleared other parts of the war-torn country from radical Islamist rebels, the Syrian army has recently reinforced troops around Idlib, the last major bastion for radical jihadists in Syria.

The province is home to an estimated population of 2.5 million, among it around 50,000 armed rebels.

It is widely argued that many rebels would at some stage flock to the Turkish border or areas under Turkish troops' control in northern Syria after the Syrian army offensive begins.

"Possible Turkish efforts to send the rebels to their countries of origin would fail as no country would admit them since they are seen as terrorists," said Solmazturk, who chairs Incek debates at the Ankara-based 21st Century Turkey Institute.

According to some estimates, foreign fighters may make up as much as around half the rebels in Idlib.

Ilhan Uzgel, an analyst on international relations, thinks Turkey will have to face a certain wave of migrants from Idlib in any scenario.

"Turkey will bear the burden of this migration while radical rebels who may disguise as civilians among the migrants would pose a serious threat," he told Xinhua.

In the view of Solmazturk, the only way for Ankara to better cope with the threat is to cooperate with Russia, which, like Iran, has militarily supported the Syrian army operations against rebels.

Turkey has already hosted some 3.5 million Syrian refugees.

As a Syrian army attack looks imminent on Idlib on the Turkish border, Turkey's foreign and defense ministers met on Friday with their Russian counterparts in Moscow in a bid to deter an offensive on the province.

The two ministers, Mevlut Cavusoglu and Hulusi Akar, and Turkey's intelligence chief Hakan Fidan, also met later the same day with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

According to a statement from the Russian Ministry of Defense, the Russian side presented Akar and Fidan with "proposals regarding normalization of the situation in Syria's northwest."

Solmazturk does not think Ankara could talk Moscow out of launching an offensive on the rebels whom Russia has often accused in recent months of trying to carry out attacks on Russian positions in Syria.

Neither Russia, nor Syria nor Iran would think of delaying the operation against Idlib as the Syrian army is marching toward victory against rebels in the war that has raged on for seven years, said Solmazturk.

Noting the Syrian government would neither give up on Idlib nor on the areas under Turkish control in northwestern Syria, the retired general said Turkey should come up with a proposal covering not only Idlib but the whole Syria.

The reference to "the situation in Syria's northwest" in the Russian statement seems to imply that Moscow is also seeking a deal with Turkey that will cover the Turkish army-held areas in Syria, spoils of two military operations launched by Ankara respectively in August 2016 and January this year.

In remarks apparently targeting the United States and Turkey on Wednesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that any foreign troops in Syria without Damascus' invitation must leave.

If the radical groups could be persuaded to leave Idlib under a deal with Syria, Turkey would face a thinner wave of migration toward its border, said Uzgel.

Earlier this week, the leader of an al-Qaida-linked rebel group in Idlib, Abu Mohammed al-Golani, vowed to fight against a Syrian military offensive. He also warned that those who surrender would be seen as traitors.

Following a meeting with Lavrov in Moscow, Turkish Foreign Minister Cavusoglu warned that a military solution in Idlib would come to mean a disaster for Syria's future.

Saying an offensive would result in the killing of hundreds of thousands of people and the displacement of millions of others, Cavusoglu said "this would lead to a disaster. That's why we must work together on how to resolve (the issue) rather than attack Idlib."

Ankara, Moscow and Teheran are partners in a joint effort known as the Astana process aimed at ending clashes and setting the stage for a political settlement in Syria. Idlib is one of the four areas under rebel control which were designated as de-escalation zones last year.

"Keeping Idlib as a de-escalation zone is very important for Syria, the fight against terrorism and on humanitarian grounds," said Cavusoglu.

The Syrian army, backed by Russian and Iranian forces, has taken back the other three de-escalation zones from rebels earlier this year. Most of the rebels in those zones were allowed to go to Idlib under a deal with the Syrian government.

The al-Qaida-linked Hayat Tahrir al-Sham alliance controls much of the Idlib province, while Turkey-backed rebels, who came together under the name of the National Liberation Front, holds the rest of the territory.

Based on the Astana deal, Turkey has established a total of 12 observation posts in Idlib to monitor cessation of hostilities, involving some 1,000 Turkish troops.
Long Xianlan (L), a beekeeper and head of a local cooperative, poses for a group photo with his family members at Shibadong Village in Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, central China's Hunan Province, July 2, 2022. (Xinhua/Xue Yuge)

CHANGSHA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- In the mountainous village of Shibadong in central China's Hunan Province, a group of journalists were impressed by the traditional musical performances, Miao embroidery and silverware workshops, as well as rustic restaurants and home-stays.

The journalists, some of whom come from Spain, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and Singapore, went on a four-day interview tour in Hunan from Aug. 2 to 5, learning about the province's efforts and progress in promoting rural revitalization.

"I have been working in China for 11 years and witnessed great changes in the country's rural areas in recent years," said Guillaume Benavides Moine, a journalist from Spain.

Shibadong village shook off poverty in 2016. "What impresses me most about Shibadong is the better life the locals are having now," he added.

Shi Jintong, Party secretary of Shibadong Village, said that the village has formed five industries -- tourism, mountain spring water, labor service, planting and breeding, and Miao embroidery.

"These industries not only enable us to successfully get rid of poverty, but also provide strong support for rural revitalization," Shi said, adding that the growing industries do not damage the traditional look of the village, as the Miao style is well preserved in the construction and renovation of the houses.

According to the provincial department of agriculture and rural affairs, the per capita net income of those lifted out of poverty in Hunan increased from 1,987 yuan (about 295 U.S. dollars) in 2014 to 13,553 yuan in 2021.

During the tour, the journalists also visited several featured agricultural industries. Hunan Xiangyan Seed Industry Co., Ltd. is specialized in breeding, production, promotion and sales of new vegetable varieties. It has developed more than 200 new varieties and cooperated with more than 10 countries and regions on research, development and promotion.

Hunan is an important agricultural base in the country, rich in grain, tea and other agricultural products. 
ADEN, Yemen, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Deadly clashes erupted on Monday between rival security units across various residential neighborhoods of the Yemeni oil-rich province of Shabwa, a government official told Xinhua.

Security units loyal to the Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated Islah Party launched an attack against the rival security forces of the government in Ataq, the provincial capital, triggering intense street battles, the local government source said on condition of anonymity.

The ongoing street clashes in Shabwa have left 18 people killed and more than 25 others injured, according to local medical sources.

"The infighting occurred following the appointment of a new commander to lead the special security units loyal to Islah," the source said.

The local government authorized the deployment of army troops from the elite southern Giants Brigades to secure state institutions in the province and confront the rebellion, according to the official.

Hours after the infighting, the Aden-based Presidential Leadership Council held an extraordinary meeting, renewing its full support for the governor of Shabwa and ordering the special security units to immediately stop the clashes.

The Yemeni council issued new decisions that included dismissing a number of security and military leaders accused of organizing a rebellion against the local authorities in Shabwa, according to the state-run Saba news agency.

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 out of the capital Sanaa.

The war has killed tens of thousands of people, displaced 4 million, and pushed the poorest Arab country to the brink of starvation. 
DAR ES SALAAM, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania's National Irrigation Commission on Monday signed agreements with contractors for the development of 21 irrigation schemes worth 182 billion Tanzanian shillings (about 78 million U.S. dollars), covering 26,700 hectares of land in the country's seven regions.

The signing of the agreements for the implementation of the seven irrigation schemes was witnessed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the climax of the week-long 19th Farmers' Agricultural show in Mbeya region.

Speaking before the signing of the agreements, the Minister for Agriculture, Hussein Bashe, said irrigation schemes to be implemented in the seven paddy producing regions will boost production of the crop to 97,300 tons annually.

He said the construction of the irrigation schemes will go in tandem with the construction of dams for domestic and livestock use. 
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- China's national observatory continued to issue an orange alert for high temperatures on Tuesday, as intense heat waves linger in many regions of the country.

During daylight hours on Tuesday, parts of Xinjiang, Shaanxi, Henan, Anhui, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Sichuan, Chongqing, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangxi, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangxi and Guangdong are expected to experience temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius, the National Meteorological Center said.

Temperatures in some regions of Shaanxi, Hubei, Chongqing, Jiangsu and Xinjiang may surpass 40 degrees Celsius, according to the forecast.

The meteorological center has advised the public to avoid outdoor activities during high-temperature periods and suggested that workers exposed to high temperatures shorten continuous working hours.

Local governments have been advised to take appropriate heat control measures and necessary protective steps against fires triggered by electrical overloads.

China has a four-tier color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue. 
WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden announced Monday that the United States will provide Ukraine with 1 billion U.S. dollars worth of additional security assistance, the largest one-time weapons package since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

According to a statement by the Department of Defense, the package - the 18th tranche of presidential drawdown since August 2021 - included additional munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), 75,000 rounds of 155 mm artillery ammunition, 20 120 mm mortar systems and 20,000 rounds of 120 mm mortar ammunition, as well as munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS).

Washington will also deliver to Kiev 1,000 Javelins, hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems, 50 armored medical treatment vehicles, anti-personnel munitions, explosives, demolition munitions and demolition equipment, the statement said.

The just-announced aid brings total U.S. commitment of security assistance to Ukraine to approximately 9.8 billion dollars since Biden took office, according to the Pentagon. 
KUWAIT CITY, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Kuwaiti Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Majdi Ahmed Al-Dhafiri has said his country firmly supports the one-China principle.

When meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Zhang Jianwei here on Sunday, Al-Dhafiri said Kuwait scrupulously abides by this position as well as all related international resolutions. He also stressed the need for all sides to respect the basic norms governing international relations to maintain world peace and stability.

The Chinese ambassador said the one-China principle is a universally recognized basic norm governing international relations and a consensus of the international community, adding that Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi's visit to China's Taiwan region seriously violated the one-China principle, and infringed on China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. 
Huang Kunming, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, addresses the 2022 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road via video, Aug. 9, 2022. The forum, held in the city of Xi'an in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, was attended by more than 120 media representatives from over 40 countries and international organizations. (Xinhua/Liu Xiao)

BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- A senior Communist Party of China (CPC) official on Tuesday called for enhanced media cooperation to advance high-quality joint Belt and Road construction.

Huang Kunming, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks while addressing the 2022 Media Cooperation Forum on Belt and Road via video.

Noting that the Belt and Road Initiative has seen progress in the cooperation among relevant countries in numerous fields, Huang said it has become a widely valued international public good and platform for international cooperation.

Huang emphasized that the media play an indispensable role in disseminating information, fostering mutual trust, and building consensus, urging their participation, actions, communication and cooperation in the joint building of the Belt and Road.

The forum, held in the city of Xi'an in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, was attended by more than 120 media representatives from over 40 countries and international organizations. 
Oil painter Wang Gang (3rd L) poses for a group photo with his students on a public welfare program in Weihai, east China's Shandong province, Aug. 7, 2022. Wang Gang, who became disabled after a car accident, was one of the first batch of students attending the oil painting program. Now he is an instructor of the program.

The public welfare program helping people with disability learn oil painting skills was implemented in Weihai in 2015. The organizers of the program also help sell the paintings via exhibitions, auctions and on-line sales. So far, the program has benefitted more than 600 trainees. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

Oil painter Wang Gang (1st R) shares his ideas with students on a public welfare program in Weihai, east China's Shandong province, Aug. 7, 2022. Wang Gang, who became disabled after a car accident, was one of the first batch of students attending the oil painting program. Now he is an instructor of the program.

The public welfare program helping people with disability learn oil painting skills was implemented in Weihai in 2015. The organizers of the program also help sell the paintings via exhibitions, auctions and on-line sales. So far, the program has benefitted more than 600 trainees. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

Students learn oil painting on a public welfare program in Weihai, east China's Shandong province, Aug. 7, 2022.

The public welfare program helping people with disability learn oil painting skills was implemented in Weihai in 2015. The organizers of the program also help sell the paintings via exhibitions, auctions and on-line sales. So far, the program has benefitted more than 600 trainees. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

A student learns oil painting on a public welfare program in Weihai, east China's Shandong province, Aug. 7, 2022.

The public welfare program helping people with disability learn oil painting skills was implemented in Weihai in 2015. The organizers of the program also help sell the paintings via exhibitions, auctions and on-line sales. So far, the program has benefitted more than 600 trainees. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)

Oil painter Wang Gang (1st L) teaches a student on a public welfare program in Weihai, east China's Shandong province, Aug. 7, 2022. Wang Gang, who became disabled after a car accident, was one of the first batch of students attending the oil painting program. Now he is an instructor of the program.

The public welfare program helping people with disability learn oil painting skills was implemented in Weihai in 2015. The organizers of the program also help sell the paintings via exhibitions, auctions and on-line sales. So far, the program has benefitted more than 600 trainees. (Xinhua/Guo Xulei)
BEIJING, May 18 (Xinhua) -- China urges Australia to treat Chinese enterprises fairly and stop interfering with the investment and trade cooperation between the two countries, the country's top economic planner said Tuesday.

The Australian side has unreasonably restricted and suppressed projects and existing achievements of bilateral investment and trade cooperation, damaging mutual trust between the two countries and seriously affecting the confidence of enterprises, said Jin Xiandong, spokesperson for the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

Jin made the remarks in response to a previous NDRC decision to indefinitely suspend all activities under the framework of the China-Australia Strategic Economic Dialogue.

"China has to make a necessary and legitimate response, and Australia must bear full responsibility for this," said Jin.

He urged the Australian side to cease its interference and take actions to promote the healthy development of China-Australia relations. Enditem
Kenyan presidential candidate Raila Odinga (C), veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister, makes his final pitch to voters during a public rally in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 6, 2022. Some 22.1 million Kenyans will vote on Aug. 9 to elect, among others, the country's fifth president, members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors, according to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). (Photo by Fred Mutune/Xinhua)

NAIROBI, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Kenya's Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) said Monday that it had finalized preparations for national polls slated Tuesday.

Wafula Chebukati, the Chairman of IEBC said that logistics including deployment of ballot papers, polling clerks and security personnel had been finalized to ensure the voting exercise was devoid of glitches.

"The preparations have been completed to ensure that we deliver credible elections," Chebukati said at a briefing in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital.

Kenya will on Tuesday hold its seventh general election since the introduction of multiparty politics in 1991 where some 22.1 million registered voters will elect the country's fifth president, members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors.

The registered voters who must be over 18 years of age in line with constitutional requirements will troop to 46,229 polling stations countrywide to elect a new group of leaders, the IEBC chairman said.

Chebukati said that tallying of presidential results will be conducted at the constituency, county and national levels, adding that accredited media, election observers and party agents will be given unfettered access to polling stations.

The electoral body, according to Chebukati, has already deployed over 150,000 security officers to enhance security during the polling day while close to half a million temporary staff had been hired to oversee the one-day exercise.

In addition, a toll-free number has been set up by the electoral agency to enable voters and monitoring groups to report malpractices, said Chebukati.

The two leading candidates in the Tuesday elections are veteran opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and sitting Deputy President William Ruto.

The elections are hotly contested, with President Uhuru Kenyatta backing Odinga.

The most recent opinion polls have shown a tight race between Odinga of the Azimio la Umoja (Resolution for Unity) One Kenya Coalition, and Ruto of Kenya Kwanza (Kenya First) Alliance. 

Kenyan presidential candidate William Ruto, sitting Deputy President, makes his final pitch to voters during a public rally in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 6, 2022. Some 22.1 million Kenyans will vote on Aug. 9 to elect, among others, the country's fifth president, members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors, according to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). (Photo by Joy Nabukewa/Xinhua)

Wafula Chebukati, chairman of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), demonstrates the voting process in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 7, 2022. Some 22.1 million Kenyans will vote on Aug. 9 to elect, among others, the country's fifth president, members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors, according to the IEBC. (Photo by Fred Mutune/Xinhua)

Ballot boxes to be used for Kenya's 2022 general elections are seen at a tallying center in Nairobi, Kenya, Aug. 7, 2022. Some 22.1 million Kenyans will vote on Aug. 9 to elect, among others, the country's fifth president, members of the National Assembly, senators, and county governors, according to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). (Photo by Joy Nabukewa/Xinhua)
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese authorities have planned to recommend the Beijing Central Axis as China's 2024 world cultural heritage application project, according to the National Cultural Heritage Administration.

Li Qun, director of the administration, noted that Beijing considers this task as a starting point to promote the overall protection of the old city and cultural relics in the core area of the national capital.

The Beijing Central Axis is 7.8 kilometers long, starting from the Yongding Gate in the south of the city and ending with the Drum Tower and Bell Tower in the north. Most of the major old-city buildings of Beijing are along this axis.

Speaking at the 2022 "Dialogue on Conservation of World Heritage and Historic Cities" held in Beijing on Aug. 7, Lazare Eloundou Assomo, director of the UNESCO World Heritage Center, said that Beijing alone, as the home of many exceptional sites, boasts seven sites inscribed on the World Heritage List and most of them are located in the historic center of the city.

The majority of experts at the conference agreed that granting heritage status to the Beijing Central Axis can add a fresh footnote to the history of world civilization.

The central axis is the backbone of old Beijing, representing the highest achievement in the planning, design and construction of an ancient capital of Eastern civilization.

The Beijing municipal government started preparation works of the world cultural heritage application for the Central Axis project in 2011. It was included in the preliminary list of China's world cultural heritage in 2012.

In recent years, more than 100 cultural relics renovation projects have been launched on both sides of the Beijing Central Axis.

Lv Zhou, director of the National Heritage Center of Tsinghua University, said that Beijing Central Axis' heritage protection covers all kinds of historical and cultural relics in the old city area of Beijing, representing a grand narrative of the Chinese civilization. 
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The United States has committed crimes by launching wars in the Middle East and surrounding regions that have caused mass killing of civilians, said a report released Tuesday by the China Society for Human Rights Studies (CSHRS).

Titled U.S. Commits Serious Crimes of Violating Human Rights in the Middle East and Beyond, the CSHRS report said that by rallying its allies to launch the Gulf War (1990-1991), the Afghanistan War (2001-2021), the Iraq War (2003-2011), and engaging in the Libyan War and the Syrian War, the United States has created "a humanitarian disaster rarely seen throughout the world."

Citing a report of the Brown University in the United States, the CSHRS pointed out that more than 174,000 people died directly in the war in Afghanistan, of whom more than 47,000 were civilians.

In 2003, the United States bypassed the United Nations and violated a basic principle of international law prohibiting the use of force to launch the Iraq War with excuses fabricated out of thin air, constituting aggression against Iraq, the CSHRS report said.

According to the report, from 2003 to 2021, about 209,000 Iraqi civilians died in wars and violent conflicts, and about 9.2 million Iraqis became refugees or were forced to leave their homeland.

Citing data released by the United Nations, the report also revealed that U.S. military intervention has claimed at least 350,000 lives in Syria, displaced more than 12 million people, and left 14 million civilians in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.

Noting that hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians have been killed in wars the United States waged or participated in, the report said those who committed the crimes "often escape accountability for their illegal and criminal acts there."

"The U.S. military troops' wanton massacre of civilians abroad undoubtedly constitutes a crime against humanity," it said. 
UNITED NATIONS, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday called for amplifying the voices of indigenous women, while highlighting their role in preserving and passing on traditional knowledge.

"Indigenous women are knowledge keepers of traditional food systems and medicines. They are champions of indigenous languages and cultures," he said in a video message to mark the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, which falls on Tuesday.

The UN chief noted that indigenous women are also defenders of the environment and indigenous peoples' human rights.

Indigenous traditional knowledge can offer solutions to many common global challenges, said Guterres, recalling his recent visit to Suriname, where he learned first-hand how indigenous peoples are protecting their rainforest and its rich biodiversity.

"To build an equitable and sustainable future that leaves no one behind, we must amplify the voices of indigenous women," he said.

Guterres called on member states to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and to promote indigenous traditional knowledge for the benefit of all.

The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is commemorated annually on Aug. 9, in recognition of the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations held in 1982. 
LUSAKA, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Zambia's national narcotics agency, the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), on Monday said it has arrested three foreigners suspected to have trafficked heroin in Lusaka, the country's capital.

The suspects are two female Malawians and one Nigerian man who were arrested at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.

Mathias Kamanga, the Spokesperson of the narcotics agency, said the suspects were found with 100 pellets of heroin concealed in a bag carried by one female suspect who was about to travel to Bangladesh through several destinations.

The suspects are expected to appear in court within the course of this week, he added.

He said in a release that the agency has heightened its operations in entry and exit points to ensure that Zambia was not being used as a transit point for drug traffickers resulting in many arrests being recorded in the recent past involving narcotics. 
LUSAKA, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Smallholder farmers in Zambia on Monday expressed concern at the increased dumping of fresh cabbages and tomatoes on the market by larger producers, saying it was killing their business.

Calvin Kaleyi, the Spokesperson of the Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU), an umbrella body of farmers in the country, said some known large-scale farmers were oversupplying the fresh cabbages and tomatoes on the market, a situation that has resulted in a significant drop in prices.

"The oversupplying of these fresh vegetables is causing a significant drop in commodity prices, resulting in many farmers producing at a loss," he said in a statement.

He said if not curtailed, the trend will force many small-scale and emergent farmers to stop production, adding that larger fresh producers should contemplate venturing into the value chain addition instead of dumping their produce on the market.

Meanwhile, President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed sadness over the development, especially at a time when the government was unlocking both the local and international markets for the country's produce.

"This makes sad reading for us who have been working tirelessly to unlock both local and international markets for our produce through various MoUs we have signed," he said on his Facebook page.

The Zambian president, who said agricultural produce should not be allowed to go to waste, has since called for massive investment in cold storage facilities and value addition to agriculture products. 
HARARE, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) -- The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) will this week release another 2,000 gold coins into the market, following a successful launch last week during which all the 1,500 coins released were sold out.

RBZ launched the gold coins on July 25 as a store of value amid the continued depreciation of the local Zimbabwean dollar and both corporates and individual buyers wasted no time in buying them.

John Mangudya, the central bank's governor, said Monday that most of the coins had been bought in local currency. "A total (of) 1,500 gold coins were sold by the bank's agents during the first week of their release into the market, with 85 percent having been bought in local currency and the balance of 15 percent in foreign currency."

An additional 2,000 gold coins will be released into the market during the week commencing on Aug. 1, Mangudya said.

There have been mixed feelings about the introduction of the gold coins, with some observers saying that they were elitist and excluded low-income groups. The coins entered the market at 1,823.83 U.S. dollars per piece, which is far beyond the reach of many Zimbabweans.

MPC member Percy Gwanyanya told the Sunday Mail newspaper that the coins were an instrument that the RBZ was using to mop up excess liquidity which was in the hands of a few contractors, institutional investors and pension funds. 
DAR ES SALAAM, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- At least 20 people were killed and 15 others injured after three vehicles and a tractor were involved in multiple collisions Monday night in Tanzania's northern district of Kahama in Shinyanga region, police said Tuesday.

The Shinyanga regional police commander Leonard Nyandahu said in one of the accidents, three people traveling in a salon car died on the spot after their car rammed into a stationary tractor.

Nyandahu told a news conference that another 17 people traveling in a mini-bus died on the spot after their bus collided with a truck when the driver of the bus tried to avoid the stationary tractor.

He said the accidents occurred at 10 p.m., local time, adding that three of the injured people were in critical condition.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is inspecting the Njombe region in the country's south, sent a condolence message to the Shinyanga regional commissioner Sophia Mjema following the accidents.

"I am joining the families in mourning the loss of their beloved relatives and friends," said President Hassan in a statement issued by the Directorate of Presidential Communications, wishing the injured persons quick recovery. 
MANILA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Philippine economy expanded by 7.4 percent year-on-year in the second quarter of 2022 as the country eased the COVID-19 mobility restrictions allowing more social and economic activities to thrive, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said on Tuesday.

In a press conference, PSA head Dennis Mapa said the main contributors to the gross domestic product (GDP) growth in this period were wholesale and retail trade, construction, and transportation and storage.

He added that the significant economic sectors of agriculture, forestry, and fishing, as well as industry and services, all posted positive growths in the second quarter.

On the demand side, Mapa said household final consumption expenditure grew by 8.6 percent; the government's final consumption expenditure rose by 11.1 percent; exports of goods and services, by 4.3 percent; and imports of goods and services, by 13.6 percent.

The recovery "remains strong due to improved risk management," Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said at the same press conference.

Balisacan attributed the second quarter growth to the easing of pandemic restrictions, acceleration of the vaccine rollout, and lifting of tourism restrictions.

He said the April to June growth figure places the country as the second best-performing economy in the region, next to Vietnam's 7.7 percent, adding that the country will pursue a "full reopening" of the economy.

"The overall goal is to reinvigorate job creation and reduce poverty," Balisacan said.

Last month, days after Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos taking his office, the new administration lowered its GDP target band for this year to 6.5 to 7.5 percent from 7 to 8 percent due to "recent external and domestic developments".

The Manila-based Asian Development Bank forecasts a 6.5 percent GDP growth in 2022 and 6.3 percent in 2023.

The Southeast Asian country's GDP grew by 5.7 percent in 2021 after the economy contracted 9.6 percent in 2020 due to the pandemic. 
PHNOM PENH, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia registered 908,059 air travelers during the first seven months of 2022, up nearly 500 percent compared to the same period last year, a spokesman said in a news release on Tuesday.

Sin Chansereyvutha, spokesman for the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, said that 26 airlines, including six airlines from China, had operated some 12,550 flights to the kingdom's three international airports during the January-July period this year, up 110 percent from almost 6,000 flights in the same period last year.

He attributed the remarkable rise to the Southeast Asian nation's full opening of borders to all travelers without quarantine since last November after most of the kingdom's population have been vaccinated against the COVID-19.

The increase in the number of passengers and flights is a sign showing that the tourism sector is returning to the path of the pre-pandemic growth, Chansereyvutha said. "We predict that the number of air passengers will reach the pre-pandemic level in late 2023 or early 2024."

According to the spokesman, for air freight, the kingdom saw a 4.4 percent drop in air cargo volume to 34,547 tons during the first seven months of this year. 
People attend the ceremony commemorating the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing at the Peace Park in Nagasaki, Japan, Aug. 9, 2022. Japan's Nagasaki City commemorated the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing on Tuesday, with the international community urging Japan to see itself not as merely a victim. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu)

TOKYO, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Japan's Nagasaki City commemorated the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing on Tuesday, with the international community urging Japan to see itself not as merely a victim.

The annual ceremony on Tuesday allowed for more people to attend, owing to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.

Officials and dignitaries from more than 80 nations were represented at the ceremony, along with atomic bomb survivors and relatives of the victims who had gathered from early in the morning to offer prayers to the lives lost.

At 11:02 a.m. local time, a moment's silence was observed by those attending the ceremony as this was the time when a U.S. B-29 bomber dropped a plutonium-core atomic bomb, nicknamed Fat Man, on Aug. 9, 1945, killing around 74,000 people in Nagasaki by the end of that year.

Over a one-year period through the end of July, Nagasaki confirmed the deaths of 3,160 atomic bomb survivors, with its list now officially recognizing 192,310 people as victims of the atomic bombing.

The atomic bombing of Nagasaki followed the one dropped on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, with both bombings a means of accelerating the end of World War II and forcing Japan to surrender.

While Japan inwardly looks at the tragedies it had experienced at the end of World War II, historians and political minds of the international community have encouraged Japan to come to see itself not as merely a victim of the atomic bombings but also as a perpetrators who led to these tragic incidents to happen in the first place.

Japan brutally occupied many parts of Asia before and during World War II, causing untold suffering and death to hundreds of thousands of innocent victims. 

Members of a chorus rehearse before the ceremony commemorating the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing at the Peace Park in Nagasaki, Japan, Aug. 9, 2022. Japan's Nagasaki City commemorated the 77th anniversary of the U.S. atomic bombing on Tuesday, with the international community urging Japan to see itself not as merely a victim. (Xinhua/Zhang Xiaoyu)
COPENHAGEN, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Danish Health Authority (SST) has changed its vaccination strategy to target those most at risk of monkeypox infection, according to a press release issued by the SST on Tuesday.

"In the current outbreak, men who have sex with men and who have multiple and changing partners are at particular risk of becoming infected. That is why they are offered vaccination," said the document.

Until now, only those who had close contact with an infected individual were offered vaccination against monkeypox in Denmark.

"In addition to our primary focus on prevention, isolation and improved access to testing, we are now changing our vaccine strategy. We want to provide better protection to those who are most vulnerable to infection," said Helene Probst, SST's deputy director, in the press release.

According to the SST, vaccination against monkeypox will be administered in two doses of Imvanex at least 28 days apart, with the first dose expected to be administered by the end of this week.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) on July 23. 
BEIJING, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The following are the latest developments in the Ukraine crisis:

The Ukrainian parliament on Monday unveiled a draft law to impose new sanctions on Russia, the Interfax-Ukraine news agency reported.

The bill, which was submitted by President Volodymyr Zelensky, envisages 10 new restrictive measures to be introduced against Russia for the next ten years.

In particular, the draft law stipulates a ban on transferring funds from Ukraine to Russia-related individuals and legal entities. Besides, it prohibits Russia-linked individuals from participating in the privatization and lease of Ukrainian state property and purchasing land plots in Ukraine.

The bill also proposes to ban Russian and Russia-linked ships and planes from entering Ukraine, among other measures.

- -- -

Ukraine and Russia have exchanged accusations over a strike on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (NPP), which is one of the largest atomic power complexes in Europe and generates a quarter of Ukraine's total electricity.

The Russian defense ministry said Monday that Ukraine's shelling of the Zaporizhzhia NPP was an act of "nuclear terrorism."

As a result of the strike, Ukrainian forces damaged a high-voltage line, which supplied electricity to the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, it said in a statement.

Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Monday that the shelling of the nuclear plant's territory by the Ukrainian forces was "extremely dangerous," adding that such actions could lead to "catastrophic consequences" for all of Europe.

Ukraine's state-run nuclear energy operator Energoatom on Sunday accused Russian forces of shelling the power plant, saying the latest rocket attacks on Saturday hit the area next to the plant's dry storage facility, where 174 containers with spent nuclear fuel were stored in the open air.

- - - -

Efforts to bring Ukrainian grain to international markets via the Black Sea have gone into a higher gear as the inspections of the second caravan of ships off Istanbul were concluded on Sunday.

A team of representatives of the Joint Coordination Center (JCC) inspected the three newly arrived ships carrying a total of 58,000 tons of grain.

The Malta-flagged vessel Rojen passed through the Bosphorus Strait for Britain on Sunday after it had received the clearance to go. The passages of the Turkish-flagged Polarnet to a Turkiye's north-western port and the Panama-flagged Navistar to Ireland are expected to be held later.

- - - -

The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden announced Monday that the United States will provide Ukraine with 1 billion U.S. dollars worth of additional security assistance, the largest one-time weapons package since the beginning of the Ukraine crisis.

According to a statement by the Department of Defense, the package included additional munitions for High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, 75,000 rounds of 155 mm artillery ammunition, 20 120 mm mortar systems and 20,000 rounds of 120 mm mortar ammunition, as well as munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System.

Washington will also deliver to Kiev 1,000 Javelins, hundreds of AT4 anti-armor systems, 50 armored medical treatment vehicles, anti-personnel munitions, explosives, demolition munitions and demolition equipment, the statement said. 
MOSCOW, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Russia has temporarily withdrawn its facilities from inspections under the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START), the country's foreign ministry said in a statement Monday.

"Russia officially informed the United States ... that our country was temporarily withdrawing its facilities subject to inspections under this treaty from inspection activities," the ministry said.

Moscow was forced to suspend inspections "as a result of Washington's persistent attempts to restart inspection activities" under unfair conditions, which created advantages for the U.S. side, while simultaneously making it impossible for Russia to carry out inspections in the United States.

Anti-Russian restrictions, imposed by Washington, have disrupted air travel between Russia and the Untied States, making it impossible for Russian inspection teams to reach necessary destinations, the ministry said.

The ministry said that both sides must "abandon counterproductive attempts aimed at artificially speeding up the resumption of inspection activities" and focus on eliminating all existing problems in this area.

It said that the measures were temporary, and would be canceled if all existing issues were eliminated.

In 2010, Washington and Moscow signed the New START, which stipulates limits to the numbers of deployed nuclear warheads and strategic delivery systems by both.

The New START, the last remaining nuclear arms control treaty in force between the two nuclear superpowers, can be extended by a maximum of five years with the consent of the two countries. Russia and the United States officially extended the treaty by five years on Feb. 3, 2021. 
KIEV, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Ukraine is hoping for Germany's assistance in receiving 8 billion euros (about 8.17 billion U.S. dollars) in aid from the European Union (EU), Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on Monday.

"Germany will help Ukraine quickly receive the next 8 billion euros of macro-financial assistance from the EU and will take the lead in this process," Shmyhal wrote on Facebook after online talks with German Finance Minister Christian Lindner.

Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Germany has provided significant financial aid for Kiev, Shmyhal said, without giving exact figures.

Kiev is also counting on Germany's support in the efforts to postpone Ukraine's foreign debt payments and launch a new cooperation program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Ukrainian prime minister added.

On June 24, the European Commission announced plans to issue up to 9 billion euros in loans to support Ukraine under a new exceptional Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) program.

In early August, Ukraine received 1 billion euros of the aid package in two tranches. 
BERLIN, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Germany's chemical industry has been hit hard by soaring gas prices, according to a survey published on Tuesday.

According to the report by the Munich-based ifo Institute for Economic Research, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has "further exacerbated the tense situation in the industry." Business expectations fell to minus 44.4 points in July, compared to plus 11.8 points in the same month last year.

"High energy prices are causing production in Germany to fall, while import pressure is increasing," Wolfgang Grosse Entrup, managing director of the country's chemical industry association VCI, told Xinhua on Tuesday.

In Germany, 44 percent of the energy consumption of the chemical industry is covered by natural gas, while around 30 percent of all chemical products require its use.

Gas prices in Europe are more than twice as high as before the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in late February. European TTF gas futures were trading at around 190 euros (195 U.S. dollars) per megawatt hour on Tuesday.

Europe's biggest economy relies heavily on gas supplies from other countries. Last year, 95 percent of natural gas fed into Germany's grid was imported, according to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis).

In the past, Russia was one of the main suppliers of natural gas to Germany; in May, natural gas and crude oil worth 1.9 billion euros were still being imported from Russia to Germany.

However, at the end of July, Russia further reduced gas supplies to Germany via the important Nord Stream 1 pipeline, to the current 20 percent. 
by Xu Chi

GENEVA, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Cyntoia Brown, a victim of child trafficking whose case once aroused widespread controversy in the United States, has recounted her experience and criticized the ineffective U.S. justice system and the profit-driven prisons in a recent interview with Xinhua.

In 2014, Brown, at the age of 16, ran away from a youth correctional facility in Tennessee. A man with a criminal record verbally, physically and sexually assaulted her before forcing her into sex work.

One night, a man propositioned her. At his house, Brown, who was sixteen at the time, was shown his collection of firearms, and she was unnerved. Later in the darkness of the night, Brown was lying in bed when she was surprised by the man's forceful hand. Brown was panicked and shot him dead. The next day, she called the police, who later kept Brown in custody but set the trafficker free.

"Throughout the whole process, I've not just been stripped of dignity but of the strength of my voice. I had no say. I had no credibility to anything that I was saying: what had happened to me is like my experience didn't matter ... and anything I did get the opportunity to say was automatically used in the worst possible way against me," Brown recalled about the trial.

The teenager was sentenced to life in prison. Brown said she blamed herself for a decade until "someone who had a similar experience, who had overcome that experience" let her know she was a victim of human trafficking.

After 15 years in prison, Brown regained her freedom after her case sparked public outrage, and celebrities across the United States voiced support for her release. Since then, she has helped other victims of the U.S. justice system and human trafficking.

Having experienced it firsthand, Brown spoke out against the United States' ineffective criminal justice system. In the interview, she took the prisons' rehabilitative services as an example.

"I can tell you that there is very little being done in terms of providing rehabilitative services to individuals who are incarcerated," she said, adding the prisons are only interested in getting federal funding by pretending to offer rehabilitative programs.

Regarding prison labor, Brown said every detainee has to work, no matter how harsh and unbearable the work is. The pay cannot even cover the cost of daily necessities in prison.

Compared to prison labor, the privatization of prisons' public services is much worse, said Brown.

Noting public prison commissioners earn a six-figure annual salary because of the privatization of basic services, Brown said the profit-driven business actually kills inmates.

"I had an issue with my knee, and I had to fight for years to get my knee looked at, and it was just cheaper to give me ice and ibuprofen, but I ended up having to have surgery for a torn ACL in my knee, and it took two years for me to actually get in to have that done," she recalled.

"I have someone that I'm advocating for now who went in (prison). She had fibroids in her uterus, and they performed a procedure, and they performed it so recklessly, so negligently that they actually injured her during the surgery," she said.

"I've seen that time and time again, and it all happens because ... they (the prisons) can't make a big enough profit if they're spending all these thousands of dollars on giving you the care that you need," she said. 
WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Two white men were sentenced to life in prison on Monday for the 2020 murder of Black man Ahmaud Arbery.

U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of Georgia Lisa Godbey Wood handed down the sentences against Travis McMichael and his father, Greg McMichael.

"A young man is dead. Ahmaud Arbery will be forever 25. And what happened a jury found happened because he's Black," Wood said.

A federal jury convicted the McMichaels and their neighbor William "Roddie" Bryan in February of violating Arbery's civil rights by attacking him because of his race.

All three were also found guilty of attempted kidnapping while the McMichaels were convicted of using guns in the commission of a violent crime.

The McMichaels armed themselves with guns and chased Arbery in a pickup truck after he ran past their home outside Brunswick, Georgia on Feb. 23, 2020.

Bryan joined the pursuit in his own truck and recorded a phone video of Travis McMichael shooting Arbery.

The McMichaels claimed they suspected Arbery was a burglar but investigators determined he was unarmed and had committed no crimes.

Greg McMichael addressed the Arbery family on Monday, saying that their loss was "beyond description."

"I'm sure my words mean very little to you but I want to assure you I never wanted any of this to happen," he said.

Outside the courtroom, Arbery's mother, Wanda Cooper-Jones, responded to his statement.

"I think he realizes that he made some horrible decisions," she said. "Unfortunately, his apology doesn't bring back my son."

Bryan is set to be sentenced at separate hearings later on Monday.

A Georgia state judge imposed life sentences for all three men in January for Arbery's murder.

The sentences on Monday came days after the U.S. Department of Justice charged four current and former police officers in Louisville, Kentucky for their roles in the 2020 fatal shooting of African American woman Breonna Taylor.

"Breonna Taylor should have awakened in her home, as usual, on the morning of March 13, 2020," Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke said last week. "Tragically, she did not. She was just 26 years old."

The indictments against the officers allege that Louisville Police Detective Joshua Jaynes and Sergeant Kyle Meany drafted and approved what they knew was a false affidavit to support a search warrant for Taylor's home.

That false affidavit set in motion events that led to Ms. Taylor's death when other officers executed that warrant, according to Clarke.

The killings of Arbery and Taylor fueled racial justice demonstrations across the United States after the murder of African American man George Floyd by a white police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota in May 2020. 
WASHINGTON, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Former U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday evening that his Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, Florida, had been raided by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Trump said in a statement that his home "is currently under siege, raided and occupied by a large group of FBI agents."

Neither the FBI nor the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has commented on the operation.

While lashing out at Democrats, the former Republican president said the agents "even broke into my safe" in "this unannounced raid."

The DOJ has reportedly been working on several investigations involving Trump, who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021. 
IV. The spillover effect of forced labor in the United States is felt worldwide

The widespread negative impact of forced labor in the United States has caused serious transnational human trafficking and human rights violations in other countries. The United States is an underperformer in the ratification and implementation of international labor conventions, which matches its long-standing poor record of forced labor and labor rights violations.

1.Forced labor leads to transnational human trafficking

 The United States is a source, transit hub, and destination country for victims of forced labor and slavery. Both legal and illegal industries in the United States have serious human trafficking problems. According to the U.S. Department of State, up to 100,000 people are trafficked to the United States annually and fall victim to forced labor. In the past five years, cases of forced labor and human trafficking were reported in all the 50 U.S. states and Washington D.C. According to statistics released by the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the number of reported cases increased significantly from over 3,200 in 2012 to about 11,500 in 2019. In 2020, 10,583 cases were reported, involving 16,658 victims.

Modern slavery featuring forced labor is widely seen in U.S. hotels, restaurants, massage parlors, farms, construction businesses, and domestic services industries. The victims are mostly new immigrants, children, women and other vulnerable groups. Means such as physical and mental abuses, threatening and humiliation are widely used to control the victims.

 According to a joint statement issued in April 2021 by the UNHRC Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights and the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the U.S. government forced foreign individuals to work with it by threatening to use sanctions, indicating a situation of forced labor and rights and interests violation. Urmila Bhoola, the UNHRC Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery pointed out in her 2018 report that cases of forced labor, bonded labor, sexual violence and threats of deportation against female migrant workers were discovered in several tomato farms in the United States.

 As highlighted by the Report on Human Rights Violations in the United States in 2021, tighter U.S. immigration policies, combined with weak supervision at home, have exacerbated human smuggling and labor trafficking targeting immigrants. Citing an indictment released in November, 2021 by the U.S. Department of Justice, the report reveals that dozens of workers from Mexico and Central American countries were smuggled to farms in the State of Georgia, where they were illegally imprisoned and forced to work under grueling conditions. These victims of modern-day slavery, under the threat of guns and violence, were required to dig onions with their bare hands for only 20 cents per bucket. At least two of the workers died and one suffered from multiple sexual assaults.

 Besides harsh working conditions, cruel management, confiscation of personal documents and restrictions on freedom are also typical features of forced labor cases. In 2021, the Associated Press reported that hundreds of Indian workers were lured to build a massive Hindu temple in New Jersey. Their passports were taken away on arrival and they were forced to work over 87 hours a week for US$1.2 an hour, while New Jersey's minimum hourly wage was US$12. Reuters reported that Goodyear, an American company and the world's largest tire maker, was sued multiple times by foreign workers at its Malaysian factory, for accusations of unpaid wages, unlawful overtime and the denial of their full access to their own passports. According to the workers' lawyer, some migrants worked 229 hours a month in overtime, far exceeding the Malaysian limit of 104 hours.

 The U.S. law enforcement clearly have not done enough to crack down on human trafficking and forced labor. According to the Report on Human Trafficking Data Collection Activities, 2021 released by the U.S. Department of Justice, a total of 2,091 persons were referred to U.S. Attorneys for human-trafficking and forced labor offenses in 2019, but only 837 were convicted. Chrissey Buckley, a scholar at the University of Denver, points out that forced labor lingers on in the United States because it is a lucrative business, and because inadequate legislation and inefficient law enforcement diminish the risks of prosecution of the offenders.

2. U.S. companies has long practiced forced labor abroad

 In 2019, the Washington Post disclosed that in almost the past two decades, a number of U.S. chocolate giants including Mars and Hershey had been using raw cocoa harvested by child workers in West Africa. More than two million cocoa workers are children earning less than US$1 a day. UK's Channel 4 revealed in 2020 that the coffee beans used by Starbucks and other famous U.S. coffee companies were picked by workers aged under 13 in Guatemala. These children worked eight hours a day, over 40 hours a week, and the youngest was only eight. Their daily wage sometimes is only about the price of a cup of coffee.

V. The international community has long been criticizing forced labor in the United States

Long being seriously concerned about forced labor in the United States, the international community has been calling on the U.S. government to earnestly reflect on and address relevant issues.

 Child labor in America's agricultural sector has been an indelible stain on the U.S. track record of implementing International Labor Conventions (ICLs), in particular the fundamental conventions. It is also the most prominent concern of the ILO standards supervisory mechanism regarding U.S. implementation of conventions. Since 2012, the Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) has repeatedly expressed concerns over fatal work-related injuries and accidents suffered by children under 18 working on U.S. farms. During the 103rd Session of the International Labor Conference in 2014, the Committee on the Application of Standards (CAS) had a detailed discussion on U.S. violations of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999.

 In addition, over the past decade, the CEACR has commented on the U.S. compliance with the Abolition of Forced Labor Convention, 1957 and the Shipowners' Liability (Sick and Injured Seamen) Convention, 1936, urging the U.S. government to reverse its inappropriate practices and earnestly fulfill its obligations. The CEACR pointed out in 2017 that the U.S. government should adopt federal legislation to ensure that racial discrimination does not lead to racial disparities in the punishment involving compulsory labor in the criminal justice system, and should take necessary measures at the federal level to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in the criminal justice system to ensure that the punishment involving compulsory labor is not meted out more severely to certain racial and ethnic groups.

 In her statement made in 2016 after visiting the United States, the then UN Special Rapporteur in Trafficking in Persons Maria Grazia Giammarinaro urged the United States to engage in a more effective effort to detect trafficking for forced labor and labor exploitation. The statement cited data in 2015 that 75 percent of trafficking cases in the United States were related to sex deals, 13 percent labor trafficking, and 3 percent both. Women and girls, migrant workers, unaccompanied and homeless children, people fleeing conflict, runaway youth, Native Americans and the LGBTI individuals are particularly vulnerable to labor and sex trafficking and exploitation.

Conclusion

In disregard of its own enormous problems of forced labor and modern slavery in the past and present, the United States willfully discredits other countries and spreads lies about "forced labor". This reveals nothing but its hypocrisy and double standards on human rights, and its modus operandi of using human rights as a pretext for political manipulation and economic bullying.

The "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act" pushed by the United States is not an act of care and concern over the alleged "forced labor" in Xinjiang. It aims to deprive the people in Xinjiang of their right to work by creating "forced unemployment", destroy the livelihoods of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang by creating "forced poverty", and disrupt international economic and trade order and industrial and supply chains by creating "forced decoupling". What the United States has been doing is, in essence, violating human rights under the pretext of human rights, defying rules under the banner of rules, and breaking the law under the guise of law. Such attempts that go against the trend of the times are doomed to failure.

What the U.S. government should do is to stop styling itself as a "lecturer" on human rights, review its own spotty record on forced labor, stop spreading rumors and lies, stop interfering in China's internal affairs, stop implementing the "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act", and stop "using Xinjiang to contain China." 
PHNOM PENH, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- The United States has returned 30 more stolen cultural artifacts to Cambodia, Cambodia's Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts said in a statement on Tuesday.

Among those cultural treasures are several important Buddhist and Hindu statues, such as the extraordinary sculptures of "Skanda on a Peacock" and "Ganesha" that were removed about two decades ago from temples at Koh Ker, the former royal capital of the Khmer empire in the 10th century, the ministry said.

Koh Ker was the target of widespread looting over a number of years during past war times, it added.

The U.S. hosted a repatriation ceremony for the antiquities in New York City on Monday, with Cambodia's Ambassador to the U.S., Keo Chhea, in attendance, the ministry said.

The ministry is working with an arts logistics company to arrange the transportation of those objects to Cambodia in due course and there will be a further announcement when those objects arrive in Cambodia, it added.

Minister of Culture and Fine Arts Phoeurng Sackona said the antiquities were stolen from Cambodia over a number of years during a period of war and turmoil.

Sackona extended her appreciation to museums and private collectors for voluntarily returning the national treasures to Cambodia.

In mid-June, the U.S. returned 27 trafficked Cambodian antiquities to the Southeast Asian nation. 
USA: According to some local analysts, the claim made by a senior US diplomat last week that militias supported by Iran are using Chinese drones to attack Beijing's major Gulf trading partners raises more questions than it does answers.

On Thursday, Barbara Leaf, the US's assistant secretary of state for Near Eastern affairs, accused China of doing nothing to stop the spread of its unmanned aerial vehicles throughout the region.

She referred to attacks launched against Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates since they intervened in Yemen's civil war in 2015 to stop the country from being overrun by the Iran-allied Houthi rebel movement, saying, "I am the first to say that it is an irony that those UAVs that these [Iranian] proxies use are Chinese."

The Chinese state does not provide them, but it makes no effort to stop the flow.

This Week in Asia spoke with four of six analysts who specialise in Middle East conflicts involving Iran and its allies. They expressed surprise at Leaf's statement, in part because Washington did not reveal any new information prior to it regarding the flow of Chinese-made drones into the Middle East.

The Houthis used a lot of Chinese drones in the beginning. According to UN reports, many of the parts used in Iranian proxy drones are Chinese, and European parts have been tracked to China where they vanish before showing up in an Iranian drone on the battlefield, according to Dave DesRoches, a professor at the US National Defence University's Near East South Asia Centre for Strategic Studies in Washington.

Of course, nothing takes place in China without the government's approval, so I believe it's just a little bit of a word jumble, he said.

Riyadh and Abu Dhabi acquired Chinese CH-4 and Wing Loong II drones after joining the Yemeni conflict and used them extensively against the Houthis.

The two biggest economies in the Middle East are Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which are also China's main trading and investment partners there.

Another analyst in Washington, who asked not to be identified due to the sensitivity of their employer, described Leaf's assertion as "a little bit of a surprising allegation."

They claimed that Leaf is a "very serious diplomat" and that they "wouldn't make something like that up completely." "In other words, my suspicion is that such a claim has a serious basis."

According to a UN investigation into the two most significant drone attacks on Saudi Arabian oil processing facilities, both of which occurred in 2019, Iranian delta-wing UAVs launched from Iraq were in charge of leading the attacks.

Both the Houthi rebel movement in Yemen, which is allied with Tehran, and a shadowy Iraqi militia group widely believed to be a front for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps both claimed responsibility for the attacks.

According to the UN report, the Chinese ASN-301 drone, which is based on Israel's Harpy anti-radar UAV, and the Iranian delta-wing drone are strikingly similar.

Analysts said that Leaf's comments only made sense if the nuances of the Middle Eastern drone trade were taken into account in the absence of new evidence to back up her allegation.

Another reputable Washington analyst stated that Leaf is "probably right".

There is however more to it. Iranians are undoubtedly purchasing Chinese drones and undoubtedly building their own as well. According to the analyst, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, "which are being used for what purposes and transferred to whom, isn't always clear but it's largely irrelevant in terms of impact.

The analysts claimed that while all the models it produces use primarily Chinese microelectronics, some Iranian-made drones supplied to the Tehran-allied militias in Yemen and Iraq were known to be based on Chinese designs.

How far back and how far down the line do you differentiate, then? the analyst in Washington said.

The 2019 UN report claims that the Houthi movement in Yemen purchased drone parts from Belarus, China, the Czech Republic, Germany, Iran, and Japan through middlemen.

According to the report, middlemen delivering drone parts to Yemen have been discovered in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Athens, Tehran, Muscat, and even Abu Dhabi, which was repeatedly attacked by drones at the beginning of this year.

According to the report, parts were smuggled across the Omani border by Hong Kong companies who flew them to Yemen via Muscat and Bangkok.

As Chinese-made drones are frequently purchased from Amazon and modified with cameras and explosives devices, a Yemeni analyst said they "wouldn't be surprised" if some of the drones used against Saudi Arabia are Chinese-made.

The CEO of Gulf States Analytics, a risk consultancy with headquarters in Washington, Giorgio Cafiero, stated that Leaf's remarks "need to be understood within the context of Team Biden trying to persuade US-friendly Arab states that it will not serve their security interests" to have Beijing and Moscow fill the void left by Washington's recently reduced military role in the Middle East.

He added that the White House is "pursuing efforts to push back against Chinese and Russian influence in the Gulf," noting that the Biden administration's foreign policy in the Middle East is "significantly focused on great power competition in the region."

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Bhopal: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested two more Bangladeshi nationals from Madhya Pradesh's capital Bhopal. The arrested accused have been identified as Hamidullah alias Samid Ali Mian and Mohammad Sahadat Hussain alias Abdullah. Both of them were associated with the terrorist module of the terrorist organization Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).

NIA Arrests 02 accused persons in JMB Bhopal Case (RC-11/2022/NIA-DLI) pic.twitter.com/agxcfHq6KF  NIA India (@NIA_India) August 8, 2022

Their links have been found to be linked to 7 terrorists who were arrested from Bhopal and other cities of the state in March 2022. So far, a total of 9 suspects have been arrested in this case. Along with them, three illegal Bangladeshi immigrants were also arrested from Aishbagh in Bhopal, the agency said. According to the report, Hamidullah and Mohammad Sahadat Hussain are accused of carrying out jihadi activities in India. Both the arrested accused are originally from Bangladesh. They are accused of conspiring to spread the ideas of the terrorist organization JMB. The NIA said that both the accused were posting highly radical and hateful jihadi content online.

Both the accused were spreading communal poison through social media and were involved in motivating the youth to wage jihad against India. For this, they used encrypted apps. They used to contact Bangladesh through different apps. At present, the investigation into the case is going on continuously. The case was initially registered as FIR No. 13/2022 in MP's Bhopal on March 14 and re-registered by NIA on April 5. Seven people were arrested in this case.

On March 13, the STF arrested four members of the terrorist organization JMB from Bhopal's Aishbagh area. They were identified as Fazhar Ali alias Mahmood, Mohammad Aqeel alias Ahmed, Zaharuddin alias Ibrahim and Fajar Zainul Abedin alias Akram. After their interrogation, three other suspects were arrested. who helped them. Let us know that the central government banned the terrorist organization JMB in May 2019.

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Milan: Pope Francis will install the prime cardinal of Brazil's Amazon region this month in a sign of his concern for the rainforest and its indigenous inhabitants, the man whom he picked for the role said.

On August 27, during a process known as a consistory, Pope Francis will ordain 21 new cardinals, including Steiner. Amazonian illegal mining and logging have increased dramatically under Brazil's far-right President Jair Bolsonaro. His government has also made it easier for more evangelical missionaries to work in the area.

According to Steiner, native people say that evangelical missionaries frequently disparage customary songs, ceremonies, and even their own languages. Steiner said, "it frequently has the effect of uprooting indigenous peoples' culture and their unique way of viewing the world."

He claimed that although the Catholic Church has previously engaged in such behaviour, it now supports the preservation of indigenous cultures. Steiner emphasised the pope's public apology for sexual abuse at now-closed Catholic order-run institutions for indigenous children in Canada last week.

He remarked, "We must make sure the native people never forget their roots and always drink from their springs. In 2019, Francis convened a synod on the Amazon, a meeting for discussion and collaboration. He met with the bishops of the Amazon states of Brazil, as well as local clergy, nuns, and laypeople, in June at the Vatican.

According to Steiner, the pope urged them to interact with indigenous groups, including the forest's original occupants and tribes with whom the rest of Brazil has had little touch.

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Kazakhstan: Russia launched an Iranian satellite from Kazakhstan early Tuesday, sparking concerns that Moscow could use it to increase surveillance of Ukrainian military bases.

The launch of the Soyuz-2.1b rocket carrying the Khayyam satellite from the Russian-controlled Baikonur Cosmodrome at the scheduled time of 05:52 GMT was visible on the live feed of the Russian space agency Roscosmos. Its subsequent entry into orbit was confirmed by Russian Mission Control.

Iran has acted to address concerns that Moscow may use Khayyam to spy on Ukraine in order to maintain its ties with Moscow and refrain from criticizing the Ukrainian offensive.

Russia plans to use the satellite "for several months or more" to support its war effort before handing over control to Iran, according to The Washington Post, which last week cited unnamed Western intelligence officials was.

However, according to a statement made by the Iranian Space Agency (ISA) on Sunday, the Islamic Republic of Khayyam will command the satellite "from day one".

It said that no third country could access the information because of the satellite's "encrypted algorithm".

According to the space agency, Khayyam will "monitor the country's borders," improve agricultural productivity, and keep an eye on water resources and natural disasters.

The ISA praised the "high reliability factor of the Soyuz launcher" in a pre-launch statement on Monday.

According to a statement on the space agency's website, Russia has been entrusted with the launch of the Khayyam satellite. This is because the satellite weighs more than half a ton and the Soyuz launcher has a very high success rate.

If the satellite is successful in its mission, Iran will be able to keep an eye on its arch enemy Israel and other Middle Eastern countries.

Live coverage of the launch was broadcast on Iranian state television, which also announced that the country's communications minister was present for the liftoff in Kazakhstan.

State television reported that the satellite would deliver high-resolution surveillance images with a definition of one meter per pixel, citing Iran's civilian space agency. Western civilian satellites provide about half a meter resolution per pixel, while US spy satellites are thought to be even higher.

The US is concerned that Iran's military and civilian space programs could be used to advance its ballistic missile program. But in recent years, Iran has experienced several accidents and unsuccessful satellite launches.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin is attempting to move Russia to the Middle East, Asia and Africa and find new clients for the country's troubled space program as Moscow is increasingly isolated internationally as a result of Western sanctions on Ukraine. It is done.

Russian President Vladimir Putin met his Iranian counterpart Ibrahim Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran last month, on one of his few visits abroad since the invasion began.

Khayyam is believed to have been named after the Persian polymath Omar Khayyam, who lived in the 11th century. This is not the first Iranian satellite that Russia has launched into orbit;

In 2005, Iran's Sina-1 satellite was launched from Russia's Plesetsk Cosmodrome.

Iran is currently attempting to salvage a 2015 agreement to halt Tehran's nuclear aspirations through talks with major world powers, including Moscow.

The United States, which abandoned the historic Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018 while Donald Trump was still president, accused Iran of actively maintaining a "veil of neutrality" over Russia's conflict with Ukraine . have put.

Iran's Khamenei called for "long-term cooperation" with Russia during his meeting with Putin last month, and Tehran declined to join the global condemnation of Moscow's invasion of its pro-Western neighbour.

Iran says its space program does not violate the 2015 nuclear deal or any other international agreement because it is used only for defense and civilian purposes.

Western governments are concerned that satellite launch systems contain components that could be used interchangeably in ballistic missiles that could deliver nuclear weapons, something that Iran has consistently denied a desire to develop.

In April 2020, Iran was able to successfully launch its first military satellite into orbit, earning the country strong criticism from the US.

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Thailand: As the virus situation in the nation begins to stabilize, Thailand will turn COVID-19 into a "dangerous" communicable disease that "needs monitoring" in October.

According to Health Minister Anutin Charanvirakul, this change will equate Covid-19 to influenza and dengue, shifting it from the same level of plague and smallpox to reflect the reality of Thailand's situation.

According to a statement by Anutin, the decision reflects the readiness of Thailand's healthcare system, access to treatment and "appropriate self-protection behavior" among citizens nationwide. According to him, Thailand will also modify its pandemic management strategy to allow private hospitals to buy antiviral drugs directly "soon" as opposed to going through the government.

Officials predicted last week that by mid-August, serious Covid-19 cases and fatalities should begin to decline in Thailand. Thailand lifted almost all travel restrictions and the requirement for outdoor masks on 1 July.

Japan prepares to introduce Omicron vaccine

The Japanese government announced on Monday that from mid-October, everyone who has received at least two vaccinations will be able to use a new COVID-19 vaccine known to be effective against the Omicron variant.

It has been reported that the bivalent vaccine, designated for the combination of components obtained from current COVID-19 shots and from the BA.1 subtype of the Omicron variant, provides some enhancement of neutralizing antibodies against the BA.5 subtype. which is common at present. all over the country.

Japan is currently experiencing a seventh wave of infections, driven by the highly contagious BA.5 subtype. As of last Wednesday, about 250,000 new cases were reported every day.

The vaccine, being developed by US pharmaceutical giants Pfizer Inc and Moderna Inc, could be imported into the country in September if the health ministry gives its official approval.

The same bivalent vaccines that Japan is considering using are already approved in Europe, and plans for additional vaccinations starting in the fall are underway.

In contrast, the US Food and Drug Administration advises pharmaceutical companies to make vaccines with BA.5 subtype components.

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Study on new variant of Corona underway at LNJP Hospital, report to come next week
KIEV: According to Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Germany can help Ukraine receive 8 billion euros (USD 8.17 billion) in aid from the European Union (EU).

Following online discussions with the German Finance Minister Christian Lindner, Shmyhal posted on Facebook on Monday, "Germany will help Ukraine rapidly get the next 8 billion euros of macro-financial support from the EU and will take the lead in this process."

He said, without providing specific numbers, that Germany had given Kiev a sizable financial boost ever since the Russia-Ukraine crisis began.

The Ukrainian Prime Minister stated that Kiev is relying on Germany's assistance in its efforts to delay Ukraine's foreign debt payments and begin a new programme of cooperation with the International Monetary Fund.

On June 24, the European Commission declared that a new, special Macro-Financial Assistance (MFA) programme will support Ukraine with up to 9 billion euros in financing.

In early August, Ukraine received one billion euros of the help package in two tranches.

Meanwhile, Iran agreed to limit its nuclear programme in exchange for the lifting of sanctions when it signed the nuclear agreement with world powers in July 2015. However, former US President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the pact and reinstituted unilateral sanctions against Tehran, which caused the latter to renege on some of its pact obligations.

Zelensky forbids talks if Russia holds referendums on Ukraine's captured lands

War front is shifting as grain departs Ukraine

Ukraine, Russia trade blame for strike over nuclear plant
File: West Seti river

Kathmandu, August 9

Nepal has awarded a contract to study and build two key hydropower projects in the country to an Indian company.

A meeting of the Investment Board Nepal on Monday decided to let the Indian company, NHPC India Limited, study the 750-megawatt West Seti and 450-megawatt SR6 hydropower projects in western Nepal, as a part of the building of the projects, informs the board CEO Sushil Bhatta.

The government was preparing to hand over the West Seti project to India after a contract with the Chinese company, Three Gorges, got cancelled.

We made the decision looking into all dimensions, Bhatta says, adding the Indian company has expressed its confidence in constructing the projects.

Stakeholders, however, have criticised the decision as the two governments are yet to calculate how the benefits of water resources will be shared between the two countries.

India thinks Nepals water resources and electricity belong to India, and it is behaving in the same way, former water resources secretary Surya Nath Upadhyaya says, We are committing a mistake by agreeing to Indias terms. How is it possible that you calculate and regulate electricity but not other benefits of the water?
Shanghai a pioneer in pursuit of all-around development

Xinhua) 08:06, August 09, 2022

Photo taken on May 17, 2022 shows a view of the automated container terminal of Shanghai Yangshan Deep Water Port in east China's Shanghai. (Xinhua/Ding Ting)

SHANGHAI, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai has made pioneering progress in its pursuit of all-around development over the past decade, according to a press briefing held Monday.

The city's GDP increased from 2.13 trillion yuan (about 314.6 billion U.S. dollars) in 2012 to 4.32 trillion yuan in 2021, and its GDP per capita rose from 14,200 dollars to 26,900 dollars, said Gong Zheng, mayor of Shanghai.

Over the past 10 years, Shanghai's urban function has achieved a new leap forward. The total transaction volume in the city's financial market has surged from 528 trillion yuan to 2,511 trillion yuan. Shanghai Port's container throughput has ranked first globally for 12 consecutive years.

Shanghai has made new breakthroughs in its reform and opening up. The China International Import Expo has been held in the city for four consecutive sessions. Shanghai is now home to 857 regional headquarters of multinational corporations and 516 foreign-funded research and development centers.

The city has also focused on ensuring and improving its residents' livelihoods. Shanghai's per capita disposable income increased from 38,600 yuan in 2012 to 78,000 yuan in 2021, and its average life expectancy was up from 82.41 years to 84.11 years.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Press Release

August 9, 2022 Poe: Bilisan, pag-isyu ng dokumento sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho Nanawagan si Sen. Grace Poe sa mga kaukulang ahensya ng gobyerno na huwag nang patagalin ang pagpapalabas ng mga dokumentong dapat libreng ibigay sa mga naghahanap ng trabaho sa unang pagkakataon. Ipinaliwanag ni Poe na alinsunod sa Republic Act 11261 o ang First-Time Jobseekers Assistance Act na kanyang inakda at inisponsor, mandato ng mga ahensya ng pamahalaan na hindi na maningil para sa mga dokumentong kailangan nila para makakuha ng trabaho. "Dapat nating ibigay ang lahat ng suporta sa bawat Pilipinong naghahanap ng trabaho sa unang pagkakataon," pahayag ni Poe. Binigyang-diin ng senador na dapat libre na para sa "first-time jobseekers" ang National Bureau of Investigation, police at barangay clearances; birth certificate; tax identification number; unified multi-purpose identification card; transcript of records mula sa state universities at colleges; at iba pang dokumentong mula sa gobyerno na hinihingi ng mga employer sa mga aplikante. "Hindi natin dapat palampasin ang pagkakataong tulungan silang magsimula ng karera at iangat ang buhay ng kanilang pamilya," dagdag ni Poe. Sa kanyang mensahe sa 78th commencement exercises ng University of Batangas sa Batangas City, hinimok ni Poe ang mga nagsipagtapos na gamitin ang benepisyo ng nasabing batas para mabawasan ang kanilang gastusin sa paghahanap ng trabaho. "Ang pinagsama-samang gastusin sa mga dokumentong ito ay nagiging hadlang sa pagkakaroon ng trabaho," diin ni Poe. Ipinaliwanag pa ng mambabatas na dahil sa mabigat na gastos sa edukasyon, maraming pamilya ang lubog na sa utang. Ang anumang dagdag na bayarin para sa mga dokumento ay pahirap. Sa ilalim ng batas, kailangang magpakita ang nais magbenepisyo sa ilalim ng batas ng barangay certification, na dapat libre ring makuha, na nagdedeklarang ang aplikante ay "first-time jobseeker." Ang sinumang kawani ng pamahalaan na hindi tatalima sa batas ay papatawan ng administratibo at iba pang pagdisiplina, habang ang sinumang magpapalsipika ng mga dokumento ay papanagutin naman sa ilalim ng Revised Penal Code. Hindi naman kasama sa mga libreng dokumento ang driver's licenses, passport authentication at red ribbon ng mga dokumento mula sa Department of Foreign Affairs, at bayarin para sa Professional Regulation Commission at civil service examinations. Ang mga benepisyaryo ng Jobstart program sa ilalim ng Republic Act 10869 at iba pang batas na may kahalintulad na exemptions para sa mga dokumento at transaksyon ay hindi na kwalipikado sa benepisyo ng First-Time Jobseekers Assistance Act. "Maaaring isang dokumento na lamang ang kinakailangan para makumpleto ang isang aplikasyon sa trabaho. Maaaring malayo ang marating ng libreng pagbibigay nito sa isang aplikante," diin ni Poe. Poe: Release without delay, free of charge documents needed by first-time jobseekers Sen. Grace Poe asked concerned government agencies to swiftly release documents needed by first-time jobseekers without imposing any charges in adherence to law. Poe explained that Republic Act 11261 or the First-Time Jobseekers Assistance Act which she authored and sponsored mandates concerned government agencies not to collect fees for clearances or documents that they need to land a job. "We must give our all-out support to every Filipino striving to get a job for the first time," Poe said. The senator emphasized that the documents which must be given gratis to first-time jobseekers include the National Bureau of Investigation, police and barangay clearances; birth certificate; tax identification number; unified multi-purpose identification card; transcript of records from state universities and colleges; and other government-issued documents that may be required by employers from job applicants. "They should not miss the opportunity to begin a career and, in turn, help their families cope with the challenging times," Poe said. Speaking at the 78th commencement exercises of the University of Batangas in Batangas City, Poe urged graduates to avail of the benefits of the law that provides support and lessens constraints to clinching employment for the first time. "The costs of these documents altogether hinder our graduates from pursuing their desired jobs at the outset," Poe said. The senator underscored that costs of education have already mired many families in debts. Facing a new round of expenses to comply with documentary job requirements has prohibited many from timely pursuing employment. Under the law, those availing of the said benefits shall be required to present a barangay certification which should also be given free of charge and declare that the applicant is a first-time jobseeker. Any civil servant who unduly refuses to comply with the law shall be subject to administrative and other sanctions, while any person found guilty of fabrication or falsification will be liable under the Revised Penal Code. Excluded in the list of free documents are driver's licenses, passport authentication and red ribbon of documents from the Department of Foreign Affairs, and fees for Professional Regulation Commission and civil service examinations. Beneficiaries of the Jobstart program under Republic Act 10869 and other laws that give similar exemptions for the said documents or transactions shall not be qualified to avail of the benefits of the First-Time Jobseekers Assistance Act. "One crucial document may just be the only thing needed by an applicant to complete a job application. Furnishing it to him or her for free can help make a difference," Poe said.
A shrew (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Less than three years after the discovery of the Covid-19 virus, Chinese scientists say that they have discovered a new virus that may potentially be fatal to humans.

Thus far, the Langya Henipavirus, known as Langya, does not appear to be as deadly or spreading as quickly as Covid. According to data from Taiwans Centers for Disease Control (CDC), though the virus has already infected 35 people, none have become seriously ill or died.

Where was the virus discovered?

The virus has been identified in Chinas Shandong and Henan provinces.

The first mention of the new virus came last week in a study titled A Zoonotic Henipavirus in Febrile Patients in China published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which included the data on infections in China. Twelve different researchers, based in China, Singapore, and Australia, contributed to the article.

What are the symptoms of the virus?

The majority of the patients with the virus have developed a range of flu-like symptoms including including fever, fatigue, cough, headache, muscle pain, loss of appetite, headache, nausea and vomiting. Fatigue was the most common symptom, though the virus has also been linked with lower white blood cell counts in infected patients, as well as reduced liver failure and kidney function.

Of the 35 people identified as having contracted the virus, nine were asymptomatic.

How does the virus spread?

Scientists believe that the virus is zoonotic, passed from animals to humans. Shrews tested positive for the virus at the highest rate, though dogs and goats have also tested positive for the virus at lower rates.

The Tapei Times reported that the virus has not yet spread from human-to-human, though CDC officials cautioned that might change if the outbreak spreads. Researchers are still working to better identify the origins of the virus and how it spreads, though it is currently believed that there is no common exposure history between the people who have contracted the virus and that they did not infect close contacts like family members.

Taiwanese CDC Deputy Director Chuang Jen-Hsiang said in a press conference on Sunday that the agency is working to establish a nucleic acid test to test for and sequence the virus, and is also working with the Chinese Council of Agriculture to attempt to identify whether other viruses are found in species native to Shandong and Henan proviences.

The emergence of a new virus in the henipavirus seems to be cause for concern given what the profile of the two other henipaviruses, the Hendra virus and Nipah virus, both of which can be transmitted by animals to humans and both of which have high fatality rates. There is a Hendra vaccine for horses, but no vaccine against any of the henipaviruses for humans. The viruses are members of the Paramyxoviridae family of single-stranded RNA viruses.
This article is adapted from CoinDesk Brasil, a partnership between CoinDesk and InfoMoney, one of Brazil's leading financial news publications. Follow CoinDesk Brasil on Twitter.

Singapore-based Amber Group, which provides liquidity and market-making services mostly in Asia, has expanded its retail trading operation to Brazil.

Called WhaleFin, the retail platform  allowing users to buy and sell crypto as well as take out loans  has been operational in Brazil since June.

WhaleFin is our newest product interface that allows customers to connect to our app, web or API to trade, earn, exchange tokens, among other products, Nicole Pabello, Latin America managing director at Amber Group, told CoinDesk.

In a statement, Amber Group CEO Michael Wu said he welcomed the size of Brazils market, adding that he expects it to grow further once the country approves a special regulatory framework for crypto.

In February of this year, Amber Group raised $200 million at a $3 billion valuation in a funding round led by Singapore-based sovereign wealth fund Temasek. In June 2021, the company closed a $100 million Series B round at a $1 billion valuation.

This article was translated by Andres Engler and edited by CoinDesk. The original Portuguese can be found here.
** Credit Union Encourages San Diego County Teachers to Apply for an Innovative Class Project Grant **

SAN DIEGO, August 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- North Island Credit Union encourages San Diego County teachers who have an innovative class project idea to apply for a credit union grant through its biannual Teacher Grant program.

(PRNewsfoto/North Island Credit Union)

The North Island Credit Union grant program is available to full-time teachers in San Diego and Riverside County, or credit union members teaching in California, looking to fund special learning opportunities for their students. The project should have clearly defined learning objectives tied to students' academic needs, display creativity, and benefit a significant number of students. Ten North Island Credit Union grants of $500 each will be awarded to area teachers in late October in the fall program.

"Over the last decade of providing teacher grants, we've seen some amazing programs come to life. We hope our local teachers will make their dream project a reality by applying for a fall grant," said North Island Credit Union President/CEO Steve O'Connell. "Our goal is to provide a little extra support for teachers, who work so hard to engage their students in innovative ways. We look forward to reviewing this fall's inspiring applications."

Interested teachers can find more information and apply online at northisland.ccu.com/teachergrant. The application deadline is September 30, 2022.

Since the creation of the program in 2012, the credit union has awarded $155,000 in teacher grants to benefit students across Southern California. The spring grant program funded a wide range of projects, including creating an egg drop STEAM challenge, developing multi-cultural art & reading curricula, organizing a Girl Boss young entrepreneur program, and creating a multi-disciplinary nature journaling project, among others.

About North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union

California Credit Union is a federally insured, state chartered credit union founded in 1933 that serves public or private school employees, community members and businesses across California. With more than 165,000 members and assets of over $4 billion, California Credit Union has 24 branches throughout Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties. The credit union operates in San Diego County as North Island Credit Union, a division of California Credit Union. California Credit Union offers a full suite of consumer, business and investment products and services, including comprehensive consumer checking and loan options, personalized financial planning, business banking, and leading-edge online and mobile banking. Please visit northisland.ccu.com for more information or follow the credit union on Instagram or Facebook @northislandcu.

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SOURCE North Island Credit Union
Bone Therapeutics SA

INSIDE INFORMATION







The acquisition will result in the business combination of Bone Therapeutics and Medsenic to create BioSenic, a speciality biopharma company

51% of Medsenic shares (valued at ca EUR 40 million) to be contributed at a subscription price per share of EUR 0.45

Each existing share to be entitled to subscribe to one additional share at EUR 0.45 in case of successful ALLOB interim results Bone Therapeutics to acquire the remaining outstanding capital of Medsenic within 36 months





Mont-Saint-Guibert, Belgium, August 10, 2022, 12:00 AM CEST  BONE THERAPEUTICS (Euronext Brussels and Paris: BOTHE), the cell therapy company addressing unmet medical needs in orthopedics and Medsenic, a privately held, clinical stage biopharmaceutical company incorporated in France and specialized in the development of optimized formulations of arsenic salts and their application in inflammatory conditions and other potential new indications, today announces the signature of a binding contribution agreement to combine the operations of both companies by means of a share for share exchange, subject to the approval of the shareholders' meeting.

Background to Medsenic and rationale of the combination

Integrating both biopharmaceutical companies would significantly derisk and broaden Bone Therapeutic's therapeutic portfolio, targeting a broad array of inflammatory and orthopedic indications. Both companies currently are running several mid to advanced stage clinical trials ongoing in lupus, chronic graft-versus-host disease, tibial fractures and other indications. As a result, there would be a number of economic, financial and operational benefits and synergies in combining the clinical development programs within one organization.

The existing pipeline from both organizations would continue as planned. The Phase IIb trial of Bone Therapeutics ALLOB, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in patients with high-risk tibial fractures, is still ongoing and set to report interim results in the first half of 2023. The Medsenic Phase II clinical study with arsenic trioxide in the first-line treatment of cGvHD (chronic GvH) is still ongoing, and a phase IIa clinical trial for Lupus has established proof of concept of safety for the patient and efficacy on the course of the autoimmune disease. A Phase 2b clinical trial for severe Lupus is in the planning stage. A Phase III study of cGvHD is also currently anticipated to start in the first half of 2023. The new laboratory facilities in Mont-Saint-Guibert, will become the scientific centre of the combined entity.

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"The addition of Medsenic, particularly with its dedicated best-in-class autoimmune disease platform, allows the respective teams of both companies to develop an expanded product portfolio across multiple therapeutic indications and thus limit shareholder risk, offer multiple treatments to patients, and increase the potential for growth and value creation for all shareholders," said Jean Stephenne, President of Bone Therapeutics. "The acquisition of Medsenic fits well with our strategic priorities and offers substantial financial growth potential and therapeutic solutions to significantly improve patient experiences and outcomes for emerging and established therapies. Bone Therapeutics is well positioned to leverage Medsenic's value proposition with a strong technology portfolio and business development experience. It is an honor and I am delighted to welcome Francois Rieger, a renowned scientist and investor, as the future President and CEO of the newly created company as a result of the acquisition, BioSenic. His experience and talent will undoubtedly enable BioSenic and our talented teams to embark on our next chapter of accelerating financial growth, maximizing patient benefits and enhancing value."

"This agreement with Bone Therapeutics highlights the value of Medsenic's highly complementary businesses, provides our shareholders with attractive and certain value, and brings together leading expertise and drug delivery platforms to accelerate growth and create new opportunities, said Francois Rieger, President and CEO of Medsenic. As we remain committed to continuing to serve our stakeholders, I would like to thank the employees of both organizations for their hard work and dedication to this mission. I am very proud as the new President and CEO to work with the Bone Therapeutics team to successfully complete the transaction and deliver best-in-class drug therapies and therapeutic solutions under the new name: BioSenic.

Terms of the combination

Further to the signed contribution agreement, the majority of Medsenic' shareholders have committed to contribute fifty-one percent (51%) of the total outstanding share capital of Medsenic, valued at EUR 40,800,207, at a subscription price per share of EUR 0.45, which values Bone Therapeutics at EUR 10 million. In exchange for the in-kind contribution of 51% of Medsenic' shares, around 90,668,594 shares would be issued by Bone Therapeutics to Medsenic shareholders (the "Business Combination"). The parties have relied on the valuation carried out by an independent expert in order to determine the exchange ratio of one for four.

On closing of the Business Combination, Bone Therapeutics would also issue and automatically allot one subscription right to each outstanding share of Bone Therapeutics, allowing the existing shareholders to subscribe for one new share of Bone Therapeutics in case of statistically positive interim results of the ALLOB Phase IIb trial, at a subscription price per share of EUR 0.45.

The transaction is subject to the approval of the contribution by Bone Therapeutics' shareholders at an extraordinary shareholders meeting (ESM) to be convened by the Board of Bone Therapeutics in the course of September 2022. The transaction is also subject to certain other customary conditions including the confirmation that the proposed Business Combination would not lead to the necessity, for any subscriber involved to launch a mandatory takeover bid on Bone Therapeutics.

The Medsenic shareholders have agreed that the Bone Therapeutics shares to be issued to them in the contribution will be subject to an initial lock-up of nine months as from the date of the ESM, provided that on the last day of the four first calendar month following the month in which the ESM occurs, 2% of the new shares held by each of Veronique Pomi-Schneiter and Francois Rieger shall be released from the lock-up.

If the customary conditions precedent are met and the shareholders of Bone Therapeutics vote in favor of the Business Combination, Bone Therapeutics would maintain its status as a Belgian listed company, and significantly broaden its diverse therapeutic portfolio.

In the contribution agreement, the existing shareholders of Medsenic have agreed to contribute in kind the totality of the remaining Medsenic shares held by within the next 36 months from the completion of the Business Combination, meaning that, in the medium to long run, all existing pipeline from both organizations would be directly or indirectly held by Bone Therapeutics.

Name and Board Changes

At the ESM, Bone Therapeutics shareholders will also be asked to approve the name change of the Company into BioSenic and the appointment, with effect as of the completion of the contribution, of a new board of directors consisting of a total of up to seven directors including the current chairman Jean Stephenne and Jean-Luc Vandebroek at least until the ALLOB Phase IIb trial results. All other existing director would end their mandate and Mr. Francois Rieger, chairman and daily manager of Medsenic, would be appointed as CEO and Chairman of the Company. Other proposed board members will be Ms Veronique Pomi-Schneiter, executive director currently in charge of the operations of Medsenic, Mr Jean-Francois Rax, representing CapInnovest, Ms Revital Rattenbach, independent director and Mr Terry Sadler, independent director.

Following the completion of the Business Combination, it is anticipated that the executive leadership team consists of Francois Rieger (CEO), Veronique Pomi-Shneiter (COO), and Anne Leselbaum (Chief Medical Officer).

The combined group is expected to have a proforma cash position of at least EUR 5 million at closing. The Company plans to raise funds in the form of a private placement of new shares at the end of 2022 in order to finance the combined activities of Medsenic and the Company. In the meantime, the Company will make use of the existing EUR 5 million convertible facility obtained via ABO to finance its activities and to finance the convertible loan granted to Medsenic for of up to EUR 2 million to secure the projects of Medsenic during this period.





About Medsenic SAS

Medsenic innovates and exploits the new possibilities offered by the therapeutic use of arsenic trioxide in several autoimmune diseases and is currently in clinical trials in Europe. The company was founded in 2010 by Francois Rieger, former Director of Research at the CNRS (French National Centre for Scientific Research) and author of more than 170 international scientific publications, and Veronique Pomi-Schneiter, former founder and manager of a consulting company specializing in human resources, communication and development strategy. Under the aegis of a high-level scientific board, chaired by the 2011 Nobel Prize in Medicine Jules Hoffman, a specialist in innate immunology, and supported by numerous private investors, Medsenic accelerated its development in 2016 with the arrival of professional investors. Further information is available at www.medsenic.com.





About Bone Therapeutics

Bone Therapeutics is a leading biotech company focused on the development of innovative products to address high unmet needs in orthopedics and other diseases. Currently Bone Therapeutics is concentrating specifically on the development of its most advanced clinical asset, the allogeneic cell therapy platform, ALLOB.

Bone Therapeutics core technology is based on its cutting-edge allogeneic cell and gene therapy platform with differentiated bone marrow sourced Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs) which can be stored at the point of use in the hospital. Its leading investigational medicinal product, ALLOB, represents a unique, proprietary approach to bone regeneration, which turns undifferentiated stromal cells from healthy donors into bone-forming cells. These cells are produced via the Bone Therapeutics scalable manufacturing process. Following the CTA approval by regulatory authorities in Europe, the Company has initiated patient recruitment for the Phase IIb clinical trial with ALLOB in patients with difficult tibial fractures, using its optimized production process. ALLOB continues to be evaluated for other orthopedic indications including spinal fusion, osteotomy, maxillofacial and dental.

Bone Therapeutics cell therapy products are manufactured to the highest GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) standards and are protected by a broad IP (Intellectual Property) portfolio covering ten patent families as well as knowhow. The Company is based in the Louvain-la-Neuve Science Park in Mont-Saint-Guibert, Belgium. Further information is available at www.bonetherapeutics.com.





For further information, please contact:

Bone Therapeutics SA

Miguel Forte, MD, PhD, Chief Executive Officer

Tel: +32 (0)493 09 73 66

investorrelations@bonetherapeutics.com

For Belgian Media and Investor Enquiries:

Bepublic

Bert Bouserie

Tel: +32 (0)488 40 44 77

bert.bouserie@bepublicgroup.be

International Media Enquiries:

Image Box Communications

Neil Hunter / Michelle Boxall

Tel: +44 (0)20 8943 4685

neil.hunter@ibcomms.agency / michelle@ibcomms.agency

For French Media and Investor Enquiries:

NewCap Investor Relations & Financial Communications

Pierre Laurent, Louis-Victor Delouvrier and Arthur Rouille

Tel: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 94

bone@newcap.eu





Certain statements, beliefs and opinions in this press release are forward-looking, which reflect the Company or, as appropriate, the Company directors current expectations and projections about future events. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions could adversely affect the outcome and financial effects of the plans and events described herein. A multitude of factors including, but not limited to, changes in demand, competition and technology, can cause actual events, performance or results to differ significantly from any anticipated development. Forward looking statements contained in this press release regarding past trends or activities should not be taken as a representation that such trends or activities will continue in the future. As a result, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release any update or revisions to any forward-looking statements in this press release as a result of any change in expectations or any change in events, conditions, assumptions or circumstances on which these forward-looking statements are based. Neither the Company nor its advisers or representatives nor any of its subsidiary undertakings or any such persons officers or employees guarantees that the assumptions underlying such forward-looking statements are free from errors nor does either accept any responsibility for the future accuracy of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release or the actual occurrence of the forecasted developments. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.




(Reuters) - XP Inc posted a marginal jump in second-quarter adjusted profit as the Brazilian broker gained from a surge in assets under custody that offset a slowdown in inflows due to higher interest rates.

Last week, Brazil's central bank raised its key interest rate by half a percentage point to battle the impacts of fuel and food shocks that have kept consumer prices rising above 10% a year even as growth remains subdued.

The country's largest brokerage said its net inflows of 43 billion reais ($8.36 billion) were 43% lower from a year ago, while the total purchase value on XP's credit card rose 161% to 5.5 billion reais.

Assets under custody rose 4% to 846 billion reais as people poured money into its diverse range of products such as bonds, derivatives and pension funds, while active client numbers rose 16%.

The company's adjusted net income rose 1% to 1.05 billion reais in the second quarter and net revenue jumped 14%.

Retail gross revenue rose 14% to 2.79 billion reais, while institutional revenue saw a 16% jump to 436 million reais.

($1 = 5.1454 reais)

(Reporting by Mehnaz Yasmin in Bengaluru; Editing by Maju Samuel)
ROSENBERG, Texas, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas just got more Bueno! Adding a brand-new Taco Bueno at 28225 Southwest Fwy, Rosenberg, Texas 77471.

The new restaurant authentic decor focuses on the brand's fresh ingredients and high quality Tex-Mex with its vibrant colors, energy-efficient led lighting, and a high-top bar seating so guests can use laptops and tablets.

Digital menu boards and promotional signage are also featured adding ordering efficiencies and guest appeal. "The contemporary Tex-Mex flavors, ingredients, and items offered by modernized restaurants and frequent menu changes will continue to drive growth for Taco Bueno in 2022" stated Guillermo Perales, President and CEO of Sun Holdings who owns and operates Taco Bueno.

Now and for a limited time, guests can enjoy the return of the Hickory Slow-Smoked Brisket Menu including tacos, quesadilla, nachos and queso.

Other iconic menu items like the Muchaco, which is a taco in a soft pita-like shell, is among Taco Bueno's most popular choices. Additionally, Taco Bueno offers a variety of "Big Freakin" options, which are top selling favorites, and twice their regular size.

Guillermo Perales, a Dallas restaurant franchise owner (Sun Holdings, Inc.), purchased Taco Bueno in 2019. The company was founded in 1967 in Abilene, Texas and now operates 142 locations throughout Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Mr. Perales expects that Taco Bueno will continue to grow and gain momentum with over twenty new locations opening within the next year, marking a milestone in the brand's history as it celebrates 55 years later this year. "While other chains in the category are looking to cut food cost with processed foods, we've stayed true to our roots by crafting authentic recipes in each of our kitchens. We do things the Bueno way, and you're sure to taste the difference" stated Mr. Perales. "Taco Bueno is reinvesting in exciting new limited time offers with top-grade proteins, such as fresh-never-frozen ground beef, grilled chicken and brisket, as well as salsas, guacamole, and beans made fresh, from scratch, in house daily" continued Perales.

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About Sun Holdings

Sun Holdings, Inc. was founded in 1997 by Guillermo Perales, funded by an SBA loan. Sun's portfolio is ranked as the second-largest franchisee group in the U.S. by Mega 99 in its 2021 Rankings. Mr. Perales has developed a portfolio of companies that own and operate more than 1,120 locations in 27 states, creating more than 30,000 jobs. He has also overseen the development across different brands of over 200 new stores and completed 200 plus store remodels in the last three years. Today, his companies own and operate Taco Bueno and operate Burger King, Popeyes, Arby's, Papa John's, Applebee's, T-Mobile, McAlister's, IHOP, GNC and several airport restaurant locations. Mr. Perales' organization has been awarded the MUFSO Golden Chain Award and Nation's Restaurant News' Top 10 Power List. He has also been named Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year, IFA's Entrepreneur of the Year, Dealmaker of the Year and Latino Executive of the Year by CEO Magazine and Nation's Restaurant News' Most Influential CEO for 2021, as well as appearing on Latino Leaders Magazine's 101 Most Influential Latinos for several consecutive years.

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SOURCE Taco Bueno
Across Hampton Roads, historic Black cemeteries are filled with some of the most important members of the regions history. But how well their graves are treated depends on what jurisdiction they fall under.

Some cemeteries are privately owned or abandoned and left in the hands of volunteer groups. With inconsistent funding and workers, upkeep can end up hit or miss.

Others land in cities that take responsibility for their maintenance. City-owned cemeteries can still be flooded with preservation problems but end up with consistent, perpetual care.

Virginia Beach, Suffolk and Hampton dont take ownership of any historic Black cemeteries. Chesapeake is in the process of assessing historic cemeteries in the city. Portsmouth owns Mount Calvary Complex, a cluster of four historic Black cemeteries, and is in the process of acquiring another, Lincoln Memorial Cemetery.

Norfolks cemeteries department declined to comment, city spokesperson Carter Johnson wrote in an email.



Fighting on their own

Darnell Lang spends three days, twice a month dodging sunken graves on a donated lawn mower in Pleasant Shade Cemetery in Hampton. He started cutting the 17 acres with a troop of volunteers 14 years ago, but numbers have dwindled.

Now he mostly cuts in solitude.

Im old myself, said Darnell, a 68-year-old retired minister. I try to do the best I can to manage, but its hard.

Pleasant Shade is a historic Black cemetery in Hampton, which doesnt own or care for historical cemeteries. Darnell and his wife, Artestine Lang, took up the cemeterys care with their community organization, East End Neighborhood Association of the Peninsula.

While tending to her own family graves, Artestine watched the upkeep of the cemetery deteriorate over the years as families who cared for individual graves died off or relocated.

She used her organization to rally volunteer groups to maintain the graveyard.

When they began cutting the grass, some of the weeds stood over 6-feet tall, she said. It took four passes with weed wackers and lawnmowers to get the grass to a reasonable height.

Story continues

Even with volunteers, there are things Artestine cant do on her own.

Volunteers cant get to tombstones trapped behind a treeline bordering Pleasant Shade Cemetery.

Some tombstones have crumbled and some graves have collapsed into gaping holes.

Artestine believes without funding or city intervention, these problems will go unfixed.

After 14 years caring for the cemetery, Artestine has seen the number of volunteers and donations ebb to a trickle.

A lot of the older people who were supporting us passed away, Artestine said.

Artestine and her husband are getting on in their years. Walking difficulties have stopped Lang from joining in the lawnwork.

Without anyone to take up the mantle, Artestine hopes the city will eventually take over the cemetery.

Hampton doesnt take ownership of historic cemeteries, Hampton History Museum Executive Director Luci Cochran said.

All cemeteries in Hampton are private property, she said. So the city really cannot or does not have authority to have people work on private property.

The city gaining control of a cemetery can also be a struggle, Cochran said. Sometimes the owner cant be identified, taxes are owed on the property or the property doesnt have any value.

Artestine Lang is still trying to speak with city officials about how that can change.



City support

Where cities take ownership of their cemeteries, care can be more consistent.

Charles Johnson has been visiting his familys plot in Portsmouths Mount Calvary cemetery since the 1960s.

His family made a celebration out of cleaning the plot every year. Generations from across Hampton Roads drove there to eat lunch, sing hymns and share family history. They painted concrete tombstones white so they would resemble marble, once a common practice in African American cemeteries, Johnson said.

This was the park where we ate lunch, he said. We came for Memorial Day parades.

Johnsons ancestor, Edwin Mingo, established his family plot in a coveted spot of the cemetery in the 1880s. That lane of the cemetery was reserved for high-rolling members of the community, Johnson said. Mingo was a professional and minister, but far from upper class. He wanted his family plot to stand alongside the legends, so most of the adornments were scavenged.

Embedded in the tombstones are knobs from decommissioned electrical knob-and-tube wiring systems. The low gate around the plot is topped with white marble door knobs Mingo snagged from a demolished house. Concrete flower pots are trimmed with car headlight rims. With enough shine, they can look like silver, Johnson said.

Johnson watched the cemetery change around him as he grew, from an overgrown field with a few winding paths leading to an abandoned lot with weeds reaching over 5-feet tall.

Wrought iron gates separating family plots and delicate urns disappeared and popped up in antique stores throughout Hampton Roads. The construction of Interstate 264 turned the cemetery into a lake in the wet seasons. Concrete tombstones crumbled and graves sunk under the weight of time.

In 1964, Portsmouth ruled that Mount Calvary Complex was unfit for new burials, relegating it to a historic site, Johnson said.

In the 60s and 70s, Johnson saw tombstones topple and shatter overnight, acts of racial vandalism from the surrounding white community in backlash to the civil rights movement.

Volunteer groups sporadically cleared the grounds, but there was no one there to provide continuous care, Johnson said.

Johnson joined the African American Historical Society of Portsmouth in their fight to get the cemetery complex recognized and taken care of by the city. In 2010, the society commissioned a preservation assessment detailing the maintenance needs of the cemetery, including major issues with flooding and tree maintenance.

In 2019, Portsmouth took over responsibility for maintenance of the grounds.

Since then, Johnson has seen the cemetery flourish again.

Instead of a large family gathering, now he brings his 21-year-old daughter to his family plot every year. The grass stays cut and dead trees get removed by the city. Johnson still finds shattered tombstones that need replacing. But now hes able to walk along the lanes with ease, instead of having to wade through weeds to reach his family plot.

Portsmouth spends about $12,250 per cutting cycle to care for all of their public cemeteries, including Mount Calvary Complex, city spokesperson Dana Woodson wrote in an email. The city also allocates $50,000 a year on repairs to fencing, headstones and the grounds.

However, just because the city is mowing the grass doesnt mean there isnt more work to be done. Mount Calvary Complex was deemed one of the most endangered historic sites in Virginia last year. The complex has battled flooding issues for decades, with little help from the city.

Portsmouth is in the process of taking ownership of another historic Black graveyard, Lincoln Memorial Cemetery. The owner is giving the plot to the city. The cemetery has similar drainage problems to Mount Calvary.

Portsmouth has had public cemeteries for centuries, maintained by the city and funded with public money, Councilman Mark Whitaker said. Originally, these were all white cemeteries.

You had African Americans having to pay out of their private dollars to take the cemetery perpetual care, Whitaker said.

Whitaker said city maintenance of historic Black cemeteries is tied into social justice.

What has occurred at Lincoln is just a microcosm of the neglect that the African American community not only in Portsmouth, but weve seen nationwide, Whitaker said.



Finding the funds

Every historic Black cemetery, city-owned or not, struggles to find funding for the upkeep of aging graves.

In 2020, the state started helping to fund the upkeep of graves dug before 1900. This year, the state has put aside $250,000 for graves dug before 1948. Recipients get $5 per grave.

Charitable organizations and cities can apply for the funding by proving the graves age with tombstones or death certificates.

Many of Hampton Roads representatives sponsored the bill, including Dels. Jackie Glass of Norfolk, Deion Ward of Hampton and Clinton Jenkins of Suffolk.

It is unclear how (many) cemeteries this will affect, but we must make the opportunity known, Glass wrote in an email.

Across Hampton Roads, one organization took advantage of this fund last year, Barrett-Peake Heritage Foundation, in their maintenance of Barrett and Elmerton cemeteries in Hampton. The city of Hampton matches the funds the foundation gets from the state.

Artestine Lang hadnt learned about the state funding until recently. She hopes this will help, but mapping the age of every grave in Pleasant Shade Cemetery is no small effort. Lang will still ask for Hampton support as the cemetery sinks below her feet.

Apparently its not something that they do, Lang said. As we age and we get older, people drop off. I hope and pray that eventually somebody will come up with a law where they can try to make a change.
DUBLIN, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Research Report on China's Nicorandil Market, 2022-2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Research and Markets Logo

The analyst survey data show that from 2017 to 2021, the sales value of nicorandil in the Chinese market kept increasing year by year. Even in the face of COVID-19, the sales value still achieved growth in 2021, reaching CNY618 million (USD92.7 million), with a CAGR of 72.4% from 2017 to 2021. The dosage forms of nicorandil sold in China include tablets and injection, with the latter already occupying the major market share in terms of sales value.



The analyst that from 2022 to 2031, the number of patients with coronary heart disease and angina will continue to rise in China, and the demand for nicorandil in the Chinese market will keep growing.



In China, the crude incidence rate of hypertension among residents over the age of 18 is close to 30%, and the most common hazard of hypertension is coronary heart disease. By the end of 2021, it is estimated that the number of patients with coronary heart disease in China exceeded 11 million, and that number keeps rising due to environmental pollution and poor lifestyle habits.



Clinically, WHO classifies coronary heart disease into five types: asymptomatic myocardial ischemia (occult coronary heart disease), angina pectoris, myocardial infarction, ischemic heart failure (ischemic heart disease), and sudden death.



Angina is a clinical syndrome caused by acute, temporary ischemia and hypoxia of the myocardium due to insufficient blood supply to the coronary arteries. Population-based studies show that the incidence of angina increases with age, with the prevalence increasing from 5%-7% in women aged 45-64 years to 10%-12% in women aged 65-84 years, and from 4%-7% in men aged 45-64 years to 12%-14% in men aged 65-84 years.



The rising number of patients with coronary heart disease in China has contributed to the growth of the related drug market.



Nicorandil is an anti-anginal drug that both relieves angina symptoms and improves the prognosis of coronary artery disease, with both nitrate-like effects and ATP-sensitive potassium channel-opening effects. It can both dilate large coronary arteries and diastole coronary microcirculatory resistance vessels, increasing coronary blood flow and myocardial oxygen supply while decreasing myocardial oxygen consumption, which effectively relieve angina pectoris. Several global medication guidelines have made high-level recommendations for Nicorandil.



Nicorandil was developed by Chugai with SIGMART as its trade name. Nicorandil tablets were launched in Japan in 1984 as an anti-anginal drug while the injection was put into clinical use for unstable angina in 1993 and acute heart failure in 2007. Nicorandil from Chugai entered the Chinese market in 2009, and generic drugs from local Chinese companies have been marketed since then. In 2017, Nicorandil became reimbursable under the Chinese medical insurance.



Topics Covered:

Story continues

The Impact of COVID-19 on China's Nicorandil Market

Development Environment of Nicorandil in China

Sales Volume and value of Nicorandil in China

Sales Volume and Value of Nicorandil in China by Region

Major Nicorandil Manufacturers in China and Their Market Share

Sales Price of Nicorandil in China

Prospects of China's Nicorandil Market, 2022-2031

Key Topics Covered:



1 Relevant Concepts of Nicorandil

1.1 Indications of Nicorandil

1.2 Development of China's Nicorandil Market

1.3 Governmental Approval of Nicorandil in China

1.4 The Impact of COVID-19 on China's Nicorandil Market



2 Sales of Nicorandil in China, 2017-2021

2.1 Sales Value

2.1.1 Sales Value in China

2.1.2 Sales Value in China by Region

2.2 Sales Volume

2.2.1 Sales Volume in China

2.2.2 Sales Volume in China by Region

2.3 Sales of Nicorandil in China by Dosage Form, 2017-2021

2.3.1 Injection

2.3.2 Tablets



3 Analysis of Major Nicorandil Manufacturers in China, 2017-2021

3.1 Analysis of Market Share

3.1.1 Market Share of Manufacturers by Sales Value

3.1.2 Market Share of Manufacturers by Sales Volume

3.2 Beijing Sihuan Kebao Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

3.2.1 Company Profile

3.2.2 Sales of Nicorandil in China

3.3 Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

3.4 Xi'an Hanfeng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

3.5 Henan Topfond Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

3.6 Shanxi Xin Yu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.



4 Sales Price of Nicorandil of Different Companies in China, 2021-2022

4.1 Beijing Sihuan Kebao Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (RuiKeXi)

4.2 Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (SIGMART)

4.3 Xi'an Hanfeng Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (XinDiPin)

4.4 Henan Topfond Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (TianFang)

4.5 Shanxi Xin Yu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (YiWanKang)



5 Prospects of China's Nicorandil Market, 2022-2031

5.1 Influencing Factors for the Market Development

5.1.1 The Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

5.1.2 Market Drivers and Opportunities

5.1.3 Market Threats and Challenges

5.2 Forecast on Market Size

5.3 Forecast on Market Trend

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/8b2id0

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SOURCE Research and Markets
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas top auditor is conducting a review of the $3 trillion trust industry, paving the way for a potential overhaul of a key shadow banking sector where losses on property loans are mounting.

Most Read from Bloomberg

In an unscheduled move, the National Audit Office -- which previously led an examination of bank exposures to Jack Mas Ant Group Co. -- has for the past month been inspecting the books of at least 20 trust firms, including the top five, to gauge the risks they pose to financial stability, according to people familiar with the matter.

The firms are being asked to report on their risky loans to developers and any plans to dispose of them, the people said, asking not to be named as theyre not authorized to speak publicly. The audit office is expected to submit its conclusions to policy makers in Beijing, who may decide on the future reforms of the sector, the people said.

While it is unclear what regulatory action the scrutiny will spur, the move illustrates how concerned authorities are about contagion from the property sector destabilizing the financial industry. Trust firms have this year defaulted on about 58 billion yuan ($8.6 billion) of investment products linked to property developers, which were sold to wealthy Chinese, according to industry data tracker Use Trust.

These investors have joined homebuyers and bond fund managers in feeling the pain of a liquidity crisis thats driven dozens of developer defaults and frozen construction of hundreds of projects across the country.

Chinas trust industry, after at least six rounds of restructuring since its inception in 1979, combines characteristics of commercial and investment banking, private equity and wealth management. Firms in the sector pool household savings to offer loans and invest in real estate, stocks, bonds, commodities, and even bottles of sorghum liquor. No other firms in the financial industry operate across all these asset classes.

Story continues

Trusts were once a popular avenue of funding for the property sector. Until recently, trust products were seen by wealthy Chinese individuals and institutions as a safe place to park their money.

The inspection by the audit office is still in progress and no conclusions have been made so far, the people said.

Chinas National Audit Office is responsible for inspecting the central governments budget implementation, and reports its results to the Premier. The agency is also brought in for ad-hoc reviews of state-owned institutions, which pose a threat to the broader economic stability. Its inspection of more than a quarter of the trust industry shows the government is seeking an independent assessment of the risks involved, the people said.

None of the trust firms were immediately available to comment when reached by Bloomberg. The top auditor and the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission, which oversees trust firms, didnt immediately respond to Bloomberg requests for comment.

Over the past few years, authorities have taken a series of measures, including tougher capital requirements, to cool what had been the fastest-growing corner of the shadow banking industry.

The nations 68 trust firms held a combined 20.2 trillion yuan of assets at the end of March, down about 5.5% over the past two years, according to the China Trustee Association. About three quarters of that was in money trusts, of which developer trusts made up about 11%.

The inspection comes as trust firms have more recently emerged as unlikely white knights for the embattled property sector by becoming mini-developers themselves.

Trust firms, including MinMetals Trust Co. and Zhongrong Trust Co., have bought stakes in at least 10 real estate projects this year, betting that unfinished homes will eventually yield cash to pay off some of the $230 billion in property-backed funds they have issued to investors.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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Straits Research - Market Research Strategy | Strategy Consulting | Business Research | Business Consulting | Market Research

Global Electrocardiograph (ECG) market was valued at USD 5.18 billion in 2020 and is anticipated to generate USD 10.79 billion by 2030. The market is projected to experience growth at a CAGR of 5.67% during the forecast period (20222030). North America dominated the global ECG market share in 2019, accounting for 46.8% of total revenue.

New York, United States, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- North America is dominating the global electrocardiograph (ECG) market . In this regard, the United States has the largest market share. An increasing number of partnerships can be witnessed among electrocardiograph equipment manufacturers and ECG management service providers in the United States. Market players have been entering partnerships to increase product offerings, expand businesses, and enable better exchange of information through cardiovascular information systems and electronic health records.

For instance, in September 2020, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the Electrocardiogram Monitor app for use in the United States on Galaxy Watch3 and Galaxy Watch Active2. The new ECG Monitor app allows users to monitor their heart rhythm for irregularities, scanning for atrial fibrillation signs (a heart condition that causes an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate).





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Rise in Prevalence of Cardiovascular Diseases to Upsurge the Electrocardiograph Market

The global increase in the prevalence of heart illnesses is the key driver of the ECG market. According to the WHO, cardiovascular disease is one of the main causes of death worldwide. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are expected to kill 17.9 million people per year, accounting for 31% worldwide deaths.

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, with 17.9 million deaths annually. Furthermore, heart attacks and strokes account for four out of every five cardiovascular deaths, with one-third of these deaths occurring before 70. This is projected to boost demand for electrocardiograms, perhaps slowing the market's growth rate.

Story continues

According to the European Heart Network , cardiovascular diseases cause 3.9 million fatalities in Europe each year, with over 1.8 million deaths in the European Union. These diseases are responsible for 45 percent of all deaths in Europe and 37% of all deaths in the European Union. Due to the lack of physical activity and leading sedentary lifestyles, the incidences of cardiovascular diseases are increasing at a robust pace, which is expected to drive the ECG market rapidly.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most prevalent chronic arrhythmia in patients above 65 years. As per the CDC report, it is estimated that 12.1 million people in the United States will have AFib by 2030. With the growth in the aging population, this number is expected to increase. ECG devices are mainly used for atrial fibrillation, which implies that the increasing prevalence of AF boosts the market growth. Thus, the rising incidences of CVD and atrial fibrillation are augmenting the growth of the market.





Report Scope

Report Metric Details Market Size USD 10.79 Billion by 2030 CAGR 5.67% (2022-2030) Historical Data 2019-2020 Base Year 2021 Forecast Period 2022-2030 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Product, Technology, Lead Type, End-User, Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAME and Rest of the World Key Companies Profiled/Vendors GE Healthcare, Koninklinje Philips NV, Nihon Kohden Corporation, Schiller AG, OSI Systems Inc. (Spacelabs Healthcare), AliveCor, Mindray Medical International Limited, Medtronic PLC, Biotelemetry, Hill-Rom Holdings Inc. (Welch Allyn), CompuMed Key Market Opportunities Rise in Geriatric Population Providing New Opportunities for Global ECG Market Key Market Drivers Rise in Cases of Cardiovascular Diseases as a Key Driver for Global ECG Market

Increased Demand for Remote Monitoring Devices Driving Global ECG Market

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Impact of COVID-19

With the accessibility challenges to quality healthcare and COVID-19-related infection fears, the portable and technology-enabled ECG devices will help deliver affordable and convenient heart care. For instance, in response to COVD-19, AliveCor, in 2020, declared its product development in the Indian market for KardiaMobile 6L, its ECG device. This was approved by the US FDA. This will help heart patients minimize the risk of infection via visiting hospitals.

However, with the growing public health crisis of COVID-19, remote monitoring allows patients to maintain rapport with their healthcare professionals when required. Remotely, healthcare providers can access information about a patient's vital signs while at home, reducing the need for hospital visits and minimizing the risk of exposure to coronavirus. In April 2020, Biotricity Inc., a medical diagnostic and consumer healthcare technology company, announced that its Bioflux units are designed for QT interval analysis, a section of the ECG, to identify serious risks like QT prolongation.

Furthermore, as virus infection and pneumonia enhance the risk of rhythm disturbance and acute coronary syndrome, routine electrocardiography (ECG) is a suggested diagnostic test for all COVID-19 afflicted individuals. Furthermore, ECGs can be used to assess the cardiac toxicity of antibiotics given to COVID-19 patients.





Key Insights

The Electrocardiograph market was valued at USD 5186.13 million in 2020, and is anticipated to generate USD 10.79 billion by 2030, and it is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 5.67% from 2021 to 2030.

By product , the market is divided into rest ECG systems, stress ECG systems, holter ECG systems, event recorders, and other products being the most common. The rest ECG systems market is valued at USD 2899.56 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 4.26% during the forecast period.

Based on technology , the market is segmented into portable ECG systems and wireless ECG systems. The portable ECG systems segment is valued at USD 4820.45 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 4.27%.

America and Europe are the two dominant markets for electrocardiographs, and markets in regions are expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.45% and 4.19%, respectively.





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List of Key Players

GE Healthcare

Koninklinje Philips NV

Nihon Kohden Corporation

Schiller AG

OSI Systems Inc. (Spacelabs Healthcare)

AliveCor

Mindray Medical International Limited

Medtronic PLC

Biotelemetry

Hill-Rom Holdings Inc. (Welch Allyn)

CompuMed





Global Electrocardiograph Market: Segmentation

By Product

Rest ECG Systems

Stress ECG Systems

Holter ECG Systems

Event Recorders

Others

By Technology

Portable ECG Systems

Wireless ECG Systems

By Lead Type

Single Lead ECG

3-6 Lead ECG

12 Lead ECG

By End-User

Home-Based Users

Hospitals

Others

By Region

America

Europe

Asia-Pacific

Middle East & Africa





TABLE OF CONTENT

Introduction Market Definition Market Scope Research Methodology Primary Research Research Methodology Assumptions & Exclusions Secondary Data Sources Market Overview Report Segmentation & Scope Value Chain Analysis: Electrocardiograph (ECG) Market Key Market Trends Drivers Restraints Opportunities Porters Five Forces Analysis Bargaining Power of Suppliers Bargaining Power of Buyers Threat of Substitution Threat of New Entrants Competitive Rivalry Market Share Analysis Type Overview Introduction Market Size & Forecast Marine, Aviation, & Transport (MAT) Market Size & Forecast Political Risk & Credit Insurance Market Size & Forecast Distribution Channel Overview Introduction Market Size & Forecast Brokers Market Size & Forecast Non-Brokers Market Size & Forecast Regional Overview Introduction Market Size & Forecast America North America U.S. By Type By Distribution Channel Canada By Type By Distribution Channel Mexico By Type By Distribution Channel Latin America By Type By Distribution Channel Europe Market Size & Forecast Germany By Type By Distribution Channel France By Type By Distribution Channel U.K. By Type By Distribution Channel Italy By Type By Distribution Channel Spain By Type By Distribution Channel Rest of Europe By Type By Distribution Channel Asia Pacific Market Size & Forecast Japan By Type By Distribution Channel China By Type By Distribution Channel Australia By Type By Distribution Channel India By Type By Distribution Channel South Korea By Type By Distribution Channel Rest of Asia-Pacific By Type By Distribution Channel Middle East & Africa Market Size & Forecast Saudi Arabia By Type By Distribution Channel South Africa By Type By Distribution Channel Kuwait By Type By Distribution Channel Rest of Middle East & Africa By Type By Distribution Channel Company Profile AXA Company Overview Financial Performance Recent Developments Product Portfolio American International Group Inc Company Overview Financial Performance Recent Developments Product Portfolio Allianz Company Overview Financial Performance Recent Developments Product Portfolio Conclusion & Recommendation Acronyms & Abbreviations





Table of Content and Figure @ https://straitsresearch.com/report/electrocardiograph-ecg-market/toc





Market News

Biotelemetry, a global medical technology leader, entered into the agreement to acquire Geneva Healthcare, Inc., which is provider of cardiac implantable devices for remote monitoring in March 2019

In January 2021, Hill-Rom entered a definitive agreement to acquire Bardy Diagnostics Inc.





News Media

Top 10 Medical Device Companies in the World





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REVILLA FILES BUILD, BUILD, BUILD BILL TO INTENSIFY HEALTH FACILITY DEVELOPMENT

As the nation celebrates National Hospital Week, Senator Ramon Bong Revilla, Jr. pushed for the acceleration of health facilities development in the country through Senate Bill No. 26 or the "Kaayusan sa Adhikaing Pagamutan Act."

The bill aims to legislate a "Build, Build, Build" Program similar to the flagship infrastructure program of the Duterte Administration but focused on expediting the implementation of the Philippine Health Facility Development Plan to address the lack of health care infrastructures such as hospitals, polyclinics, referral laboratories, birthing centers, and other health facilities. This shall be done through upgrading and modernizing existing facilities, expanding their capacities, repairing and renovating damaged structures, and constructing new hospitals and other facilities.

"Sakaling magiging ganap na batas ang panukala natin ay magiging mabilis ang pagkilos para madagdagan ang mga ospital at iba pang health care facilities para mas makapaghanda tayo sa anumang bugso ng kaso ng sakit, lalo pa at nasa panahon pa rin tayo ng pandemya.", the veteran lawmaker said.

The piece of legislation introduced by Senator Revilla is aligned with the pronouncement of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which he bared on his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 5, 2022, to build more hospitals in other parts of the country in order to bring medical services closer to the people.

At present, the Department of Health (DOH) reports that only the National Capital Region and Northern Mindanao meet the ideal hospital bed-to-population ratio of 1:800. In some areas of the country, the said ratio is at 1:4000. During the past surges of COVID-19 cases in the country, the health care system had been overwhelmed often due to the low bed capacity in government hospitals.

"Kung maisasaayos at mapapalawak pa ang ating mga health care facilities at makapagtatayo ng mas accessible na mga ospital ay mas marami tayong kababayang mabibigyan ng serbisyong medikal at maiiwasan na madagdagan pa ang bilang ng mga binabawian ng buhay," Sen. Revilla ended.

As mandated by Proclamation No. 181 s. 1993 of the late President Fidel V. Ramos, National Hospital Week is celebrated every August 6 to 12 of every year to recognize the important role hospitals assume in promoting, safeguarding, and preserving the health of the people.
Allied Market Research

Flat Glass Coating Market Is Expected to Reach $11.0 Billion by 2031: Allied Market Research Increase in the standard of living, rapid urbanization, and increase in demand for day-to-day conveniences and ways of life are expected to drive the growth of the global flat glass coating market. Cancellation or postponement of all sorts of construction activities, closure of manufacturing facilities, and reduced workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the market.

Portland, OR, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the report published by Allied Market Research, the global flat glass coating market generated $1.9 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach $11.0 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 20.3% from 2022 to 2031. The report offers a detailed analysis of the top winning strategies, evolving market trends, market size and estimations, value chain, key investment pockets, drivers & opportunities, competitive landscape and regional landscape. The report is a useful source of information for new entrants, shareholders, frontrunners and shareholders in introducing necessary strategies for the future and taking essential steps to significantly strengthen and heighten their position in the market.

Report Coverage & Details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20222031 Base Year 2021 Market Size in 2021 $1.9 billion Market Size in 2031 $11.0 billion CAGR 20.3% No. of Pages in Report 285 Segments covered Resin type, technology, application, and region. Drivers Increase in the standard of living Increase in demand for day-to-day conveniences Opportunities Rapid Urbanization Increase in the number of green commercial building construction projects Restrains Extortionate cost Time-consuming drying process





Download Sample PDF (285 Pages PDF with Insights): https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/17509

COVID-19 Scenario:

The outbreak of COVID-19 has had a negative impact on the growth of the global flat glass coating market, owing to the occurrence of lockdowns in various countries across the globe.

Lockdowns resulted in the closure of various manufacturing facilities including those of flat glass coatings, which negatively impacted its demand during the pandemic. This was majorly due to the stringent social distancing restrictions imposed by the government to significantly curb the spread of the virus during the pandemic.

In addition, all types of construction, infrastructural, or renovation activities were stopped or postponed, which further reduced the demand of flat glass coatings.

Furthermore, flat glass coatings are more expensive than the traditional coatings, and hence people were reluctant in purchasing expensive items due to the financial crisis that was followed by the unprecedented outbreak. However, the market is expected to recoup soon.

The report offers a detailed segmentation on the global flat glass coating market based on resin type, technology, application and region. The report provides a detailed analysis of each and every segment and their respective sub-segment through tabular and graphical representation. This analysis may assist market players, investors, and new entrants in finding and creating rigorous strategies on the basis of fastest growing segments and highest revenue generation that is mentioned in the report.

Based on technology, the water-based segment held the largest market share in 2021, holding more than half of the global market, and is expected to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. The nano coatings segment, on the other hand, is expected to cite the fastest CAGR of 23.8% during the forecast period.

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Based on application, the mirror coatings segment held the dominating market share in 2021, garnering around than two-fifths of the global market, and is expected to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. The report also analyses other segments in the market that include solar power, architectural, automotive, decorative, and others.

Based on resin type, the acrylic segment held the dominating market share in 2021, holding around two-fifths of the global market, and is expected to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. The polyurethane segment, on the other hand, is expected to cite the fastest CAGR of 21.4% during the forecast period.

Based on region, the market across Asia-Pacific held the largest market share in 2021, holding more than two-fifths of the global market, and is expected to maintain its leadership status during the forecast period. In addition, the same region is expected to cite the fastest CAGR of 20.9% during the forecast period. The research also analyzes regions including North America, Europe, and LAMEA.

The key players analyzed in the flat glass coatings market report include Ferro Corporation, Gulbrandsen, Hesse GmbH & Co. KG, Nippon Paints Holdings Co. Ltd, Nukote Coating Systems International, 3M Company, Apogee Enterprises, Inc., Arkema Group, Be cool glass coating, FENZI SpA, PPG Industries Inc., The Sherwin-Williams Company, Unelko Corporation, Vitro, and Yantai Jialong Nano Industry Co., Ltd.

The report analyzes these key players of the global flat glass coatings market. These market players have made effective use of strategies such as joint ventures, collaborations, expansion, new product launches, partnerships, and others to maximize their foothold and prowess in the industry. The report is helpful in analyzing recent developments, product portfolio, business performance and operating segments by prominent players of the market.

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ReportLinker

Electric Scooter Market Research Report by Type (Folding, Retro, and Standing/Self-Balancing), Battery Type, Voltage Type, Region (Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa) - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19

New York, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Electric Scooter Market Research Report by Type, Battery Type, Voltage Type, Region - Global Forecast to 2027 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06304729/?utm_source=GNW



The Global Electric Scooter Market size was estimated at USD 23.41 billion in 2021 and expected to reach USD 25.43 billion in 2022, and is projected to grow at a CAGR 8.82% to reach USD 38.88 billion by 2027.



Market Statistics:

The report provides market sizing and forecast across 7 major currencies - USD, EUR, JPY, GBP, AUD, CAD, and CHF. It helps organization leaders make better decisions when currency exchange data is readily available. In this report, the years 2019 and 2020 are considered historical years, 2021 as the base year, 2022 as the estimated year, and years from 2023 to 2027 are considered the forecast period.



Market Segmentation & Coverage:

This research report categorizes the Electric Scooter to forecast the revenues and analyze the trends in each of the following sub-markets:



Based on Type, the market was studied across Folding, Retro, and Standing/Self-Balancing.



Based on Battery Type, the market was studied across Li-Ion, NiMH, and Sealed Lead Acid.



Based on Voltage Type, the market was studied across 24V, 36V, 48V, and Greater than 48V.



Based on Region, the market was studied across Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe, Middle East & Africa. The Americas is further studied across Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and United States. The United States is further studied across California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. The Asia-Pacific is further studied across Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. The Europe, Middle East & Africa is further studied across France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Spain, United Arab Emirates, and United Kingdom.



Cumulative Impact of COVID-19:

COVID-19 is an incomparable global public health emergency that has affected almost every industry, and the long-term effects are projected to impact the industry growth during the forecast period. Our ongoing research amplifies our research framework to ensure the inclusion of underlying COVID-19 issues and potential paths forward. The report delivers insights on COVID-19 considering the changes in consumer behavior and demand, purchasing patterns, re-routing of the supply chain, dynamics of current market forces, and the significant interventions of governments. The updated study provides insights, analysis, estimations, and forecasts, considering the COVID-19 impact on the market.



Cumulative Impact of 2022 Russia Ukraine Conflict:

We continuously monitor and update reports on political and economic uncertainty due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Negative impacts are significantly foreseen globally, especially across Eastern Europe, European Union, Eastern & Central Asia, and the United States. This contention has severely affected lives and livelihoods and represents far-reaching disruptions in trade dynamics. The potential effects of ongoing war and uncertainty in Eastern Europe are expected to have an adverse impact on the world economy, with especially long-term harsh effects on Russia.This report uncovers the impact of demand & supply, pricing variants, strategic uptake of vendors, and recommendations for Electric Scooter market considering the current update on the conflict and its global response.



Competitive Strategic Window:

The Competitive Strategic Window analyses the competitive landscape in terms of markets, applications, and geographies to help the vendor define an alignment or fit between their capabilities and opportunities for future growth prospects. It describes the optimal or favorable fit for the vendors to adopt successive merger and acquisition strategies, geography expansion, research & development, and new product introduction strategies to execute further business expansion and growth during a forecast period.



FPNV Positioning Matrix:

The FPNV Positioning Matrix evaluates and categorizes the vendors in the Electric Scooter Market based on Business Strategy (Business Growth, Industry Coverage, Financial Viability, and Channel Support) and Product Satisfaction (Value for Money, Ease of Use, Product Features, and Customer Support) that aids businesses in better decision making and understanding the competitive landscape.



Market Share Analysis:

The Market Share Analysis offers the analysis of vendors considering their contribution to the overall market. It provides the idea of its revenue generation into the overall market compared to other vendors in the space. It provides insights into how vendors are performing in terms of revenue generation and customer base compared to others. Knowing market share offers an idea of the size and competitiveness of the vendors for the base year. It reveals the market characteristics in terms of accumulation, fragmentation, dominance, and amalgamation traits.



Competitive Scenario:

The Competitive Scenario provides an outlook analysis of the various business growth strategies adopted by the vendors. The news covered in this section deliver valuable thoughts at the different stage while keeping up-to-date with the business and engage stakeholders in the economic debate. The competitive scenario represents press releases or news of the companies categorized into Merger & Acquisition, Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership, New Product Launch & Enhancement, Investment & Funding, and Award, Recognition, & Expansion. All the news collected help vendor to understand the gaps in the marketplace and competitors strength and weakness thereby, providing insights to enhance product and service.



Company Usability Profiles:

The report profoundly explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the Global Electric Scooter Market, including Bird, EVO Scooters, Glion Dolly, HomCom, Hover-1, INOKIM, Lime, Razor USA LLC, ROBSTEP, Smarthlon Scooters, Super Cycles & Scooters, SWAGTRON, TOPMATE.CC, URBAN626, LLC, Xiaomi, Zinc, and Zycomotion.



The report provides insights on the following pointers:

1. Market Penetration: Provides comprehensive information on the market offered by the key players

2. Market Development: Provides in-depth information about lucrative emerging markets and analyze penetration across mature segments of the markets

3. Market Diversification: Provides detailed information about new product launches, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments

4. Competitive Assessment & Intelligence: Provides an exhaustive assessment of market shares, strategies, products, certification, regulatory approvals, patent landscape, and manufacturing capabilities of the leading players

5. Product Development & Innovation: Provides intelligent insights on future technologies, R&D activities, and breakthrough product developments



The report answers questions such as:

1. What is the market size and forecast of the Global Electric Scooter Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Electric Scooter Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Electric Scooter Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Electric Scooter Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Electric Scooter Market?

6. What is the market share of the leading vendors in the Global Electric Scooter Market?

7. What modes and strategic moves are considered suitable for entering the Global Electric Scooter Market?

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06304729/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



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Dublin, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Cooler Market: Analysis By Engine Type (Diesel and Gasoline), By Vehicle Type (Commercial and Passenger), By Region Size and Trends with Impact of COVID-19 and Forecast up to 2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

In 2021, the global EGR cooler market was valued at US$534.85 million. The market is projected to reach US$616.05 million by 2026.

The EGR cooler market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.07% during the forecast period of 2022-2026.

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler is a crucial part of car engines used to reduce Nitrous Oxide (NOx) levels. By rupturing chemical bonds in the combustion chamber of the engine, extreme heat creates new, harmful chemicals. Exhaust gas cooling reduces temperature peaks and slows the rate of combustion.

The primary function of EGR coolers is to reduce nitrous oxide levels by cooling exhaust gases before they are recirculated into the engine. New emission standards introduced by the governments and international organizations is a major driver of the market.

Market Segmentation Analysis:

By Engine Type: The report identifies two segments on the basis of engine type: Diesel and Gasoline. In 2021, the diesel segment accounted for more than 70% of the market. The diesel segment held the highest share as EGR coolers are mostly used in diesel based engines. Diesel engines produces more pollutant than others. Therefore, the use of EGR coolers have increased in diesel engines. The gasoline segment has been also increasing rapidly. Due to stringent regulations regarding new emission standards, use of EGR cooler in the gasoline engines have also increased.

By Vehicle Type: The report includes bifurcation of the market into two segments on the basis of vehicle type: Commercial Vehicle and Passenger Vehicle. The commercial vehicle segment accounted for more than 60% share of the market. Commercial vehicle segment recorded the highest share because the engines used in commercial or heavy duty vehicles are diesel engines. In addition, due to increasing commercial activities, use of commercial vehicles has increased in the delivery processes. So, increasing use of commercial vehicles has also supported the market growth.

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By Region: In this report, the global EGR Cooler market is divided into five regions: Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America and Middle East & Africa. In 2021, Asia Pacific dominated the market by occupying almost half of the share of the market. The growing automotive market in the region boosting the EGR cooler market in the region.

The region comprises of countries like China, Japan, India, etc. where automobile industry contributes a large portion of the economy. Increasing car production in these regions would help the market to grow in the Asia Pacific region.

Global EGR Cooler market Dynamics

Growth Drivers: The market has been growing over the past few years, due to factors such as increasing CO? emissions, increasing sales of vehicles, rising demand for fuel efficient mechanism, new emission standards applied on automotive sector, etc. In developing nations, carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels have significantly increased, because industrialization is a crucial component of developing economies. various governments around the world set emission standards to control the pollution.

Due to this reason, use of EGR coolers in the automotive industry is increasing as the vehicle manufacturers need to meet the emission standards set by respective governments and international organizations. Furthermore, EGR cooler helps to enhance the fuel efficiency. Due to these factors, the market is expected to growing fast.

Challenges: However, the market has been confronted with some challenges specifically, fouling problem in EGR cooler, rising adoption of electric vehicle, etc. One of the key problems is the fouling of the EGR cooler, which is the deposition of particulate matter (PM) as a result of the thermophoretic force between the cooler wall and flow field.

EGR cooler fouling decreases the heat exchanger's ability to transfer heat effectively, and increases NOx emissions. Fouling of EGR cooler tend to be the predominate factors of EGR system failure. Furthermore, rising adoption of electric vehicles would also restrain the market growth as EVs do not require EGR coolers.

Trends: The market is projected to grow at a fast pace during the forecast period, due to various latest trends such as innovations associated with EGR Coolers, EGR cooler with bypass, etc. New exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooler is equipped with a bypass channel to reduce incomplete combustion and the resulting emissions of hydrocarbons and soot.

The new EGR cooler's integrated bypass channel feeds exhaust gases back into the combustion chambers when the engine temperature is low. EGR cooler with bypass has the ability to enhance the performance of the vehicle. The new advancements are expected to drive the market growth.

Impact Analysis of COVID-19 and Way Forward:

The growth of the market for EGR cooler manufacturers has been restricted by the global spread of the COVID-19 epidemic. Due to the worldwide closure of manufacturing facilities in the first two quarter of 2020, sales of exhaust gas recirculation coolers fell precipitously. The governments of many nations implemented lockdowns. Although the performance of the key participants in the EGR cooler industry has been held down by the closure of production facilities and a lack of workers. The absence of vehicle movement had a significant impact on the transportation industry.

The first half of 2020 saw a considerable decline in the EGR market. However, the pandemic accelerated the need for emission-free transportation, particularly in industrialized nations like China, Europe, and the US. EGR cooler began receiving a lot of attention as governments around the world consider how to recover from the pandemic with an economy that is stronger and more resilient than it was before.

Competitive Landscape:

The EGR cooler market is concentrated. Global players have strong dominance in the market, however, domestic players like KORENS Co., Ltd. has been a pioneer in the field of EGR cooler.

Market Dynamics

Growth Drivers

Increasing CO2 Emissions

Increasing sales of Vehicles

Rising Demand for Fuel Efficient Mechanism

New Emission Standards Applied on Automotive Sector

Challenges

Fouling problem in EGR Cooler

Rising Adoption of Electric Vehicle

Market Trends

Innovations Associated with EGR Coolers

EGR Cooler with Bypass

Company Profiles

BorgWarner Inc.

Senior plc (Senior Flexonics)

Rheinmentall AG (Rheinmentall Automotive AG)

MAHLE

Denso Corporation

Faurecia SE

Benteler international AG

Valeo S.A.

Hanon Systems

Tokyo Radiator MFG. Co. Ltd

KORENS Co., Ltd.

Tokyo Roki Co., Ltd

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/glfalx

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




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Dublin, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Genital Herpes Treatment Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2022-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global genital herpes treatment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.76% during 2022-2028

The global genital herpes treatment market is segmented based on drug type, distribution channel, virus type, route of administration, and geography.



The Acyclovir segment reported a significant share of around 50.44% among all drug types. The Acyclovir is the leading segment due to availability in all three major routes of administration. The key player in the genital herpes treatment GSK has the branded drug Zovirax. Acyclovir is the oldest drug in the antiviral category and has many generic versions of Zovirax available on the market.



The Retail pharmacies segment reported a significant share of around 49.79% among all distribution channels. The retail pharmacy segment is showing the highest share due to the availability of branded and generic versions of all antiviral drugs in retail pharmacies. People who have genital herpes is most referred to go to nearby retail pharmacy outlet for anti-genital herpes treatment because of the stigma related to sexually transmitted diseases.



The HSV-2 segment reported a major share of around 84.10% among all virus types. HSV-2 is the leading virus type segment as HSV-2 is the leading cause of genital herpes. According to WHO data published in 2022, an estimated 491 million (13%) aged 15-49 years were suffering from infections worldwide in 2016. More women than men are infected with HSV-2.



Among all routes of administration, the oral segment reported a major share of around 64.03%. Mostly all the anti-genital herpes drugs are available in an oral formulation. Chronic suppressive doses of oral antivirals, including Acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), and famciclovir, have significantly reduced the incidence of clinical recurrence and the rate of asymptomatic excretion. Oral administration of Acyclovir effectively suppresses recurrent genital herpes. Daily administration of Acyclovir reduces the recurrence rate by up to 80%, and 25-30% of patients have no further recurrence while taking the drug.

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North America is the major revenue contributor to the global genital herpes treatment market, with a share of more than 40%. In North America, the US is the key revenue contributor mainly due to an increase in the demand for genital herpes drugs reflecting the growing awareness of various antiviral drugs and their benefits against different STIs, including genital herpes.

Europe is the second-largest regional market and is witnessing steady growth owing to increasing acceptance of both branded and OTC antiviral drugs for treating genital herpes. However, APAC is likely to see faster growth than all other regions. Around 1 in every ten people in APAC are infected with HSV-2, which majorly causes genital herpes.

The APAC region is witnessing high demand for off-label, generic, and OTC drugs for treating genital herpes. The region has many regional and local vendors offering generic and OTC antiviral drugs, which are majorly used for treating genital herpes.

Promising Investigational Therapies for Treating Genital Herpes

Researchers have been working on the development of herpes vaccines for decades. Several clinical trials have been conducted to test therapeutic (to reduce recurrence and viral shedding in people already infected with HSV) and prophylactic (to prevent infection) drug candidates.

mRNA-1608 a Moderna's HSV vaccine candidate is a vaccine candidate against HSV-2 infection. Moderna believes that an HSV-2 vaccine could provide cross-protection against HSV-1. With mRNA-1608, the Company intends to bring a strong antibody reaction with neutralizing and effector functionality shared with cell-mediated immunity.

HSV 2 Vaccines, RVx-201, NE HSV-2 Vaccine, HDIT 101, Pritelivir, UB-621, and other critical Genital Herpes pipeline medicines are in various stages of clinical trials for the treatment of Genital Herpes.

Sanofi, Rational Vaccines, BlueWillow Biologics, Heidelberg ImmunoTherapeutics, AiCuris, and United Biopharma are some of the most well-known pharmaceutical companies active in the field.

X-Vax Technology announced in May 2021 that it is preparing to submit an Investigational New Drug (IND) application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its experimental herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 vaccines (HSV-1 and -2).

The FDA granted AiCuris Breakthrough Therapy Designation for Pritelivir to treat HSV infections in immunocompromised patients in June 2020.

Increasing Demand for Genital Herpes Treatment by Homosexuals

Homosexual acceptance increased by double digits between 2002 and 2019. This includes a 21-point increase in South Africa since 2002 and a 19-point increase in South Korea over the same period. India has also seen a rise of 22 points since 2014.

MSM groups are at increased risk of HIV and other STIs due to sexual networks, the number of concurrent partners, and behavioral or biological factors such as condom-less sex, anal sex, drug use, etc.

MSM are vulnerable demographics to spreading STIs. While anyone having sex can get an STD, the sexually active LGBT population, including gay, bisexual, and MSM, are at greater risk.

In addition to getting higher rates of HSV, more than half of all new HIV infections happen among MSM. Many aspects contribute to the higher rates of STIs among MSM.

Growing Burden of Sexually Transmitted Diseases

As the latest data from WHO, an expected 3.7 billion individuals younger than 50, or 67% of the populace, in 2016 had HSV-1 contamination (oral or genital). The assessed predominance of the contamination was most elevated in Africa (88%) and least in the Americas (45%).

Genital herpes caused by HSV-2 is a global problem. According to WHO data published in 2022, an estimated 491 million (13%) aged 15-49 years suffered from infections worldwide in 2016. More women than men are infected with HSV-2. In 2016, an estimated 313 million women and 178 million men lived with the infection. This is because male-to-female sexually transmitted HSV is more efficient than female-to-male sexual transmission.

Genital herpes is a worldwide issue, and an expected 491 million (around 13%) individuals between 15 and 49 years suffer from this STD. In 2016, around 313 million women and 178 million men had genital herpes. This is because sexual transmission of HSV is more proficient from men to ladies than from ladies to men. The pervasiveness of HSV-2 disease was assessed to be most noteworthy in Africa (44% in ladies and 25% in men), trailed by the Americas (24% in ladies and 12% in men).

Key Vendors

GlaxoSmithKline

Glenmark pharmaceuticals

Viatris

Novartis

Teva Pharmaceuticals

Bausch Health Companies

Other Prominent Vendors

Reddy's Laboratories

Cipla

Pfizer

Eli Lilly & Company

Avet Pharmaceuticals

Aurobindo Pharma

Centurion Remedies

Abbott

Macleods Pharmaceuticals

FDC

Hetero

Zydus Group

Torrent Pharma

Finecure Pharmaceuticals

ADLEY FORMULATIONS

Medico Remedies

Zeelab Pharmacy

Key Topics Covered:



1 Research Methodology



2 Research Objectives



3 Research Process



4 Scope & Coverage

4.1 Market Definition

4.2 Base Year

4.3 Scope of the Study



5 Report Assumptions & Caveats

5.1 Key Caveats

5.2 Currency Conversion

5.3 Market Derivation



6 Market at a Glance



7 Introduction

7.1 Overview

7.1.1 STI Control Health Policy Agenda

7.1.2 Global Prevalence of HSV Infections

7.1.3 Risk of HIV and Genital Herpes Among the LGBTQ+ Community



8 Market Opportunities & Trends

8.1 R&D of Genital Herpes Vaccine Candidates

8.2 Rise in Genital Herpes Cases in LGBTQ+ Community

8.3 Market Growth Potential in Low-Middle-Income Countries

8.4 Increased Online Purchase of Genital Herpes Therapeutics



9 Market Growth Enablers

9.1 Increased Burden of STDs

9.2 Awareness of STIs

9.3 Demand for Topical Genital Herpes Treatment Drugs



10 Market Restraints

10.1 Social Stigma Associated With STDs

10.2 Side Effects & Adverse Reactions to Genital Herpes Medications

10.2.1 Risks Associated With Valacyclovir

10.3 Limitations of Genital Herpes Treatment Medications



11 Market Landscape

11.1 Market Overview

11.2 Market Size & Forecast

11.3 Five Forces Analysis



12 Drug Type

12.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

12.2 Market Overview

12.3 Acyclovir

12.4 Valacyclovir

12.5 Famciclovir

12.6 Other Drugs



13 Distribution Channel

13.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

13.2 Market Overview

13.3 Retail Pharmacies

13.4 Hospital Pharmacies

13.5 Online Pharmacies



14 Virus Type

14.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

14.2 Market Overview

14.3 HSV-2

14.4 HSV-1



15 Route of Administration

15.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

15.2 Market Overview

15.3 Oral

15.4 Topical

15.5 Injection



16 Geography

16.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine

16.2 Geographic Overview

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vxnmu9





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




Kenneth Research

Key Market Participants Profiled in the Report Global Steam Turbine Market by Kenneth Research Include Siemens Energy (Siemens AG), General Electric, Dongfang Turbine Co., Ltd., Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Toshiba America Energy Systems Corporation, Elliott Group, Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction, Arani Power Systems Ltd., TURBOCAM, Inc., and others.

New York, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The International Trade Corporation (ITC) statistics manifest that there was significant growth in the global export value for steam turbines during 2020-2021. The global export value for steam turbines in 2020 was USD 3,646,987 thousand which got rose to USD 4,269,438 thousand in 2021 with an annual growth in value of 13% during 2020-2021. In addition to that, steam turbines are widely utilized in pharmaceutical industries in the R&D sector to provide heat and power for various processes.

The  Global Steam Turbine Market  report, recently issued by Kenneth Research contains a brief overview of market dynamics, including growth drivers, restraint factors, current market trends, and development prospects for the market in the years to come. A thorough analysis of the COVID-19 pandemics effects on end-users is included in the market research report that is analyzed for the forecast period, i.e., 2022-2031. In addition, the research report examines the product portfolios of the major market competitors and their plans for expanding their market share.

According to the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) estimates, the research-based biopharmaceutical sector spent USD 179 billion on biopharmaceutical R&D in 2018. When compared to other tech industries, the biopharmaceutical sector spends 7.3 times more on R&D annually than the aerospace and defense sectors, 6.5 times more than the chemical sector, and 1.5 times more than the software and computer service sector. Additionally, the biopharmaceutical industrys entire contribution to global GDP including direct, indirect, and induced effects, is USD 1,838 billion. The growth in the trade of steam turbines and the expansion of the pharmaceutical industry are predicted to fuel the demand for steam turbines and enhance the global steam turbine market.

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Furthermore, the global steam turbine market looks forward to expand with a CAGR of ~2% during the forecast period. The applications of steam turbines in power generations are numerous. Combined cycle power plants use a combination of steam turbines and gas turbines to produce electricity with the highest plant efficiency. Waste heat from the gas turbine is recovered to produce higher power outputs from the steam turbines. Steam turbines for the power generation application in the oil and gas industry are designed and sized according to different practices used for oil and gas applications. There is diverse use of steam turbines in the oil and gas industry.

In LNG plants, steam turbines are the primary source of power for refrigerant compressors, which in one recent LNG project, provided close to 65 [MW]. Steam turbines are also utilized in ethylene facilities to mechanically drive compressors with a power output of about 85 [MW] driving both the refrigerant and cracking gas compressors on the same shaft line. Steam turbines are also employed in refineries to power the compressors and major pumps. In addition to that, IEA estimates that the total global energy produced in 2019 was 617,337,965 Tj.

Browse to access In-depth research report on Global Steam Turbine Market with detailed charts and figures: https://www.kennethresearch.com/report-details/global-steam-turbine-market/10352191

The need for steam turbines in the oil and gas industry helps to reduce energy consumption and therefore is anticipated to propel the global steam turbine market. The International Energy Agency (IEA) estimates that global energy consumption rose by 4.6% in 2021 which was twice the rate of that in 2018. The HL-class technology from Siemens Energy has declared to offer Greece to lower CO2 emissions. The 877 megawatts (MW) installed electrical capacity makes it the most potent 1x1 combined cycle power plant in the world. By moving to a new, high-performance, gas-fired power plant with one steam turbine, CO2 emissions might be cut by up to 3.7 million tons annually. The wide adoption of steam turbines in industry is expected to reduce worldwide energy demand and CO2 emissions.

The global steam turbine market is segmented on the basis of region into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. Owing to the demand for power from nations like China and India, the worlds largest and the third largest energy consumers, respectively, the Asia Pacific region is predicted to experience the highest increase over the forecast period. Additionally, China has the highest thermal power facilities that effectively employ steam turbines. The need for steam turbines in the region has greatly increased as a result.

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In China, there are around 3000 coal-fired power plant units that are currently in operation. The province of Shandong, which is south of Beijing has the most coal power plants as of January 2022, with over 400 units. In the meantime, Beijing municipality is devoid of any active coal power plants. The largest operational coal power plant in China in terms of capacity is Datang Tuoketue. With a capacity of 6.5 gigawatts, the power plant is the biggest coal power plant in the world and is situated in the inner magnolia. Furthermore, according to the ITC statistics, Japan is the top exporter of steam turbines with an exporting value of USD 643, 447 thousand in 2021.

Alternately, the European region is estimated as another big geological attraction during the forecast period for the steam turbine market. Steam turbines are utilized in sugar plants advertising tall levels of effectiveness and maintainable operations. They are utilized to deliver green carbon dioxide (CO2) vitality from bagasse. Poland was positioned as the 6th biggest sugar beet producer creating a nation with a generation volume of around 15 million metric tons of sugar beet.

Whereas Triveni Turbines, a leading steam turbine manufacturer turned 40,000 MT of waste wood annually that was headed for the landfill into heat and energy. In addition, by converting wood waste to syngas through pyrolysis and burning it, they produced 20 TPH of the steam. Additionally, the STG system produces 26,000 MWh of green electricity annually which is sufficient to power 6200 houses in the U.K.

The study further incorporates Y-O-Y growth, demand & supply and forecast future opportunity in North America (U.S., Canada), Europe (U.K., Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Hungary, Belgium, Netherlands & Luxembourg, NORDIC [Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark], Poland, Turkey, Russia, Rest of Europe), Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Rest of Latin America) Asia Pacific (China, India. Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia Australia, New Zealand, Rest of Asia Pacific), Middle East and Africa (Israel, GCC [ SAUDI Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman]. North Africa, South Africa, Rest of the Middle East and Africa).

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The global steam turbine market is sectioned by type into the steam cycle, combined cycle, and cogeneration. The steam cycle is predicted to grow most lucratively backed by its numerous applications. All across the world, steam turbines are used to power generators, produce energy, or provide drive for aircraft, ships, and missiles. There are various energy sources that use steam turbines such as coal, fossil fuels, natural gas, and geothermal energy. According to the CHP Installation Database 1, there were 699 installations using steam turbines in the United States. With an average efficiency of 37 MW and a total efficiency of 26 GW, these steam turbine CHP plants account for 32% of the installed CHP capacity in the United States. The bulk of these CHP steam turbines are employed at industrial facilities (such as those that produce paper, chemicals, and food), as well as district heating sites and commercial buildings with large thermal loads such as universities.

When low-cost boilers such as coal, biomass, solid wastes and by-products (wood or chips), refinery residual oil, and refinery off-gasses are accessible, steam turbines are an excellent choice for medium to large-sized industrial and institutional usages. To illustrate, there was significant growth in the global export value for boilers in 2021 from 2020. In 2020, the export value for boilers for heating and cooling systems was USD 4,962,701 thousand which rose to USD 6,293,593 thousand in 2021 with annual growth in value of 27% during 2020-2021. Whereas, cogent turbines use two distinct generations in the same power stream to get the most energy possible from the hot steam stream. They may operate at an efficiency of over 80%, which is greater than the normal steam turbine plants which have approximately 40%.

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Based on end-use, the global steam turbine market is further sectioned into power & utility, industrial, and others. On account of the wide utilization of steam turbines, to meet the expanding demand for power from the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors, the power, and utility segment is anticipated to have the greatest share of the market. For instance, according to the American Hospital Association (AHA) statistics, the overall number of hospitals in the United States is 6093, which includes 5139 community hospitals. Whereas, over 215 million enterprises are expected to be in operation worldwide in 2020, with 135 million industries located in Asia pacific region, 58 million in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, and, 25 million in North and South America.

Some of the prominent players and their company profiling included in the report are Siemens Energy (Siemens AG), General Electric, Dongfang Turbine Co., Ltd., Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Toshiba America Energy Systems Corporation, Elliott Group, Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction, Arani Power Systems Ltd., TURBOCAM, Inc., and others.

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Actor Brennan Elliot visits Hallmark Channel's "Home & Family" at Universal Studios Hollywood on October 17, 2019 in Universal City, California. (Photo by Paul Archuleta/Getty Images); https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb3UPSJvmbk/ brennanelliott2's profile picture brennanelliott2 Verified  Liked by gsher51 and others brennanelliott2's profile picture brennanelliott2 Verified Those closest to me know that my Wife Cami has had several bouts with cancer in the past but now she embarks on a new journey as a Stage IV metastatic gastric cancer patient. There is no one I consider braver, stronger, more Fearless even when youre Faced with a sinister opponent who never plays fair. Even after countless surgeries and chemotherapy rounds, She forges ahead into spring taking on the one of the most aggressive types of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. As you all know me to be a very private person, this feels scary and exposing but If there is any hope that her story can help Even one person, then her cancer Experience Was Not Done in vain. Please keep @Camilla_row in your prayers. #stomachcancer #hopeforstomachcancer #prayersforhealing #stage4needsmore 18w

Paul Archuleta/Getty; brennanelliott2/Instagram

Brennan Elliott is praising his wife and her bravery as she continues to battle cancer.

While attending Christmas Con in Pasadena, California over the weekend, the Hallmark star, 47, spoke with PEOPLE about how his wife Cami is doing amid her ongoing health challenges.

"She's hanging in there. She finished her last eighth round of chemo. Well, she's done 16 over the last two or three years," Elliott said. "Yeah, she's a warrior."

Elliott first announced Cami had been diagnosed with stage IV metastatic gastric cancer in a post on Instagram in April. "Those closest to me know that my wife Cami has had several bouts with cancer in the past but now she embarks on a new journey as a Stage IV metastatic gastric cancer patient," he wrote in part.

Speaking about the post, Elliott said he and his wife were blown away by the response from fans and loved ones.

"We posted something and I didn't want to post anything and bring it back to me, so I posted something on my social media that was all about her because I wanted it to be about her," he explained. "We had like over a million people praying for her in like two days. It was just bananas. It's a testament to the fans, the people that watch this channel and the people that are in the cancer community."

"I think everybody's been affected by [cancer]," the Christmas in Vienna actor continued. "It's a dreadful disease and it's something that's obviously dear to my heart, cause obviously my wife's gone through it."

RELATED: Alicia Witt Secretly Underwent Chemotherapy Treatments During 2021 Christmas Con

In the wake of Cami's treatments, Elliott said his wife has been "resting" and receiving "the best care."

"Right now, there's no evidence of disease. We're happy about that," he shared. "We just want to keep that cancer critter away from her. It's a lot of long nights, not a lot of sleeping with the kids and stuff."

"But when I come here, it's a bit of a reprieve, because I get a chance to be surrounded by the fans... everybody's just really good people. It's really, really lovely," he added of attending Christmas Con. "Then, when I go home, it kind of enriches me a little bit to keep going."

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Elliott also noted that he refuses to "shy away from or lie about" his wife's health journey and claim that "everything's fine."

"Because it's not, it's not fine," he said. "It's an absolute nightmare."

Referencing his upcoming Hallmark project Marry Go Round, Elliott added, "I think that maybe that might be why it's more of a love story that I was expecting ... because there's much more of a rawness and a vulnerability maybe in my life that when I read these things, I'm like, 'Wow, this kind of correlates a little bit.' It's been nice."

In April, the actor praised Cami in his Instagram post, writing, "There is no one I consider braver, stronger, more Fearless even when you're Faced with a sinister opponent who never plays fair."

He honored his wife for not letting "countless surgeries and chemotherapy rounds" stop her from pushing "ahead into spring taking on the one of the most aggressive types of chemotherapy and immunotherapy."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

"As you all know me to be a very private person, this feels scary and exposing but If there is any hope that her story can help Even one person, then her cancer Experience Was Not Done in vain. Please keep @Camilla_row in your prayers. #stomachcancer #hopeforstomachcancer #prayersforhealing #stage4needsmore," he added.

One month later, Elliott updated fans on Cami's health journey, writing on Instagram, "She has made it to the halfway point! So proud of her! this is the toughest experience @camilla_row has ever had to go thru [sic]. Many years of cancer treatment/surgeries etc but this one has beaten her up for sure but like all great fighters there is no quit in this girl."

Marry Go Round premieres Saturday Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. ET on The Hallmark Channel.
SOITEC

In Bernin, on August 9, 2022

INFORMATION RELATING TO THE TOTAL NUMBER

OF VOTING RIGHTS AND SHARES

FORMING THE SHARE CAPITAL

(Article L. 233-8 II of the French Commercial Code and article 223-16 of the General Regulation of the French financial markets authority (A.M.F))

Corporate name and address of the company: SOITEC

Parc Technologique des Fontaines - Chemin des Franques

38190 Bernin (FRANCE)

Statement date Total number of shares forming the share capital Total number of voting rights 07/31/2022



35,150,580 (1)



Number of theoretical (gross) voting rights (2): 45,647,878 Number of exercisable (net) voting rights (3): 44,494,939

(1) Including (i) 34,897,013 ordinary shares of 2.00 par value each, listed on the Euronext Paris regulated market under ISIN code FR0013227113 and the mnemonic SOI and (iii) 253,567 preferred shares 2 of 2.00 par value each, not listed.

(2) The total number of theoretical voting rights (or gross voting rights) is used as the basis for calculating the crossing of shareholding thresholds. In accordance with article 223-11 of the AMF General Regulation, this number is calculated on the basis of all shares to which voting rights are attached, including shares without voting rights (for example, treasury shares) and after taking into account the number of shares entitled to double voting rights.

(3) The total number of exercisable voting rights (or net voting rights) is calculated after taking into account the number of shares entitled to double voting rights, and after deduction of the shares without voting rights (for example, treasury shares).

Soitec, a French joint-stock corporation with a share capital of Euros 71,081,214 - 384 711 909 R.C.S. Grenoble - APE code 2611 Z Headquarters address: Parc Technologique des Fontaines  Chemin des Franques  38190 Bernin (France)

Attachment




US$200,000 grants available to advance Internet access and connectivity globally

RESTON, Va., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Internet Society Foundation has launched a second round of grants to advance Internet access and connectivity around the world. Now in its second year, the The Building Opportunities/Leveraging Technologies (BOLT) grant program supports teams of creatives, technologists, and researchers to develop solutions to Internet connectivity, particularly among communities where current technologies are unavailable or inaccessible. US$200,000 grants will be awarded to organizations for projects lasting up to 12 months.

Internet Society Foundation (PRNewsfoto/Internet Society Foundation)

"The Internet Society Foundation is committed to using our funding to address the challenges that prevent people from accessing the Internet, in line with our vision that the Internet is for everyone. With almost half of the world population still offline, these grants aim to bolster the development of imaginative and sustainable solutions that will promote greater Internet access and connectivity for communities around the world", noted Sarah Armstrong, Executive Director of the Internet Society Foundation.

The BOLT program builds on the Internet Society Foundation's commitment to support innovative solutions to Internet connectivity. Organizations currently implementing projects around the world through the program include: Digital Empowerment Foundation, Digital Harbor Foundation Inc., Fundacion Sole Colombia and the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU).

BOLT is open for applications between 8 August and 2 September and the grantees will be announced in October. Applying teams must ensure that their lead organization is a legally registered 501(c)(3) or equivalent.

See grant details and application process.

About The Internet Society Foundation:

The Internet Society Foundation was established in 2019 to support the positive difference the Internet can make to people everywhere. Guided by our vision of an Internet for Everyone, the Foundation champions ideas and enables communities to unlock the Internet's potential to tackle the world's evolving challenges. Focusing in five program areas, the Foundation awards grants to Internet Society Chapters as well as non-profit organizations and individuals dedicated to providing meaningful access to an open, globally connected, secure and trustworthy Internet for everyone.

Story continues

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/internet-society-foundation-announces-second-round-of-innovation-grants-to-address-connectivity-gap-301602050.html

SOURCE Internet Society Foundation
Straits Research - Market Research Strategy | Strategy Consulting | Business Research | Business Consulting | Market Research

The global isoxazoline drugs market size was valued at USD 1,305.76 million in 2021 and is expected to grow at USD 4,905.31 million by 2030. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18.00% during the forecast period (20222030). Asia-Pacific is anticipated to hold the highest market share in the isoxazoline drugs market.

New York, United States, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Isoxazoline is an oral insecticide used to treat, prevent, and control ticks and fleas among dogs and cats. It was first launched in the year 2013. Currently, the four leading animal health companies are marketing these products for dogs and cats. Companies are yet to explore the full potential of these drugsstudies are also being conducted to explore their potential in humans.

Various classes of isoxazoline include fluralaner, lotilaner, sarolaner, and afoxolaner. These drugs are used singly or in combination with other drugs such as fluralaner and moxidectin, sarolaner, moxidectin and pyrantel, and selamectin and sarolaner. It is segmented by product type, pet type, and regions.





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Increased Pet Adoption Expands Market Boundary Leading to Significant Growth

A surge in pet adoption globally is expanding the boundary of the existing isoxazoline market. Rocketing adoption measures have led to increasing instances of fleas across the spectrum. Furthermore, technological advancements in the oral mode of deliveries have led to an increasing consumer base during the forecast period. Rising disposable income combined with rapid urbanization among developing economies will increase the footprint of the market.

Rising expenditure on pet care is also among the major drivers of the isoxazoline market. According to the American Pet Products Association, Inc. (APPA), "Total of USD 97.1 billion was US Pet Industry Expenditure in 2019. Similarly, in 2020, USD 103.6 billion was the US Pet Industry Expenditure. In 2020, USD 31.4 billion was spent on vet care and product sales, and approximately USD 32.2 billion was estimated to be spent in 2021." Some key participants in the global isoxazoline drugs market are Merck & Co., Inc., Elanco, Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, and Zoetis.

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Report Scope

Report Metric Details Market Size USD 4.90 Billion by 2030 CAGR 18.00% (2020-2030) Historical Data 2019-2020 Base Year 2021 Forecast Period 2022-2030 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Product Type, Pet Type, and Regions Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAME and Rest of the World Key Companies Profiled/Vendors Merck & Co., Inc., Elanco, Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, and Zoetis. Key Market Opportunities High Demand In Pharmaceuticals Sector Is Pushing Isoxazoline Drugs Market Key Market Drivers Increasing expenditure on pet care and the rising adoption of pets is the primary factor propelling the demand for isoxazoline drugs.

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Impact of COVID-19

The ongoing pandemic forced the general population to seek additional companionship, which led to soaring rates for the adoption of companion animals such as dogs and cats during 20202021. According to the American Kennel Club, the number of US households having at least one dog increased to 69 million in 2020, an increase of 54% from 2018.

It was also noted that awareness regarding pet care was higher among pet owners, which led to the rising demand for pet care products. This also included greater focus among the pet owners on preventing and controlling ticks and flea infestations in dogs and cats. Therefore, surging the demand for drugs that help prevent and control these infestations, including isoxazoline drugs. Manufacturers noted a high demand for pet care products during the pandemic.

Post pandemic, through surveys, it was observed that the pets adopted during the pandemic were not returned to the shelter by the owners. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) data, "23 million American households acquired a pet during the COVID-19 crisis, and most will not consider rehoming their pets". Therefore, to meet the growing demand, companies are launching new products. Such factors are boosting the growth of the isoxazoline drugs market.





Key Insights

Based on type , the market is divided into fluralaner, sarolaner, lotilaner, and afoxolaner. Afoxolaner is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 18.09% during the forecast period.

Based on pet type , the dogs segment acquired ~67% of the market in 2021. It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18.11%.

The Isoxazoline Drugs Market is geographically divided into the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East and Africa. The Americas and Europe are the two major markets for the isoxazoline market, and they are predicted to enlarge the market at a CAGR of 18.16% and 18.11%, respectively.





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List of Key Players

Merck & Co., Inc.

Elanco

Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH

Zoetis.





Global Isoxazoline Drugs Market: Segmentation

By Product Type

Fluralaner

Sarolaner

Lotilaner

Afoxolaner

By Pet Type

Dogs

Cats

Regions Covered

Americas

Europe

Asia-Pacific

The Middle East and Africa





TABLE OF CONTENT

1 Introduction

1.1 Market Definition

1.2 Market Scope

2 Research Methodology

2.1 Primary Research

2.2 Research Methodology

2.3 Assumptions & Exclusions

2.4 Secondary Data Sources

3 Executive Summary

4 Market Overview

4.1 Report Segmentation & Scope

4.2 Value Chain Analysis: Isoxazoline Drugs Market

4.2.1 Vendor Matrix

4.3 Key Market Trends

4.3.1 Drivers

4.3.2 Restraints

4.3.3 Opportunities

4.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis

4.4.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

4.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers

4.4.3 Threat of Substitution

4.4.4 Threat of New Entrants

4.4.5 Competitive Rivalry

4.5 Environment & Regulatory Landscape

4.6 Forecast Factors & Relevance of Impact

4.7 Macro-Economic & Geopolitical Scenario

4.8 Parent Market Overview

4.9 Technology Landscape

4.10 Market Share Analysis

4.11 Potential Venture Analysis

4.12 Regional Price Trends

4.13 Raw Material Trends

4.14 Cost Structure Analysis

4.14.1 Labor Cost

4.14.2 Consumables

4.14.3 Maintenance Cost

4.15 Covid-19 Impact Analysis:

4.15.1 Pre and Post Covid-19 Market Scenario Analysis

4.15.2 Market Recovery Timeline and Challenge

4.15.3 Measures Taken by Top Players

4.15.4 Quarterly Market Revenue and Growth Forecast till 2021

4.15.4.1 North America

4.15.4.2 Europe

4.15.4.3 Asia-Pacific

4.15.4.4 Central and South America and the Caribbean

4.15.4.5 The Middle East and Africa

5 Product Type Overview

5.1 Introduction

5.1.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

5.2 Fluralaner

5.2.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

5.3 Sarolaner

5.3.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

5.4 Lotilaner

5.4.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

5.5 Afoxolaner

5.5.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

6 Pet Type Overview

6.1 Introduction

6.1.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

6.2 Dogs

6.2.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

6.3 Cats

6.3.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

7 Regional Overview

7.1 Introduction

7.1.1 Market Size & Forecast (Value & Volume)

7.2 North America

7.2.1 Economic Overview

7.2.2 Market Scenario

7.2.3 U.S.

7.2.4 Canada

7.2.5 Mexico

7.3 Central and South America and the Caribbean

7.3.1 Economic Overview

7.3.2 Market Scenario

7.3.3 Brazil

7.3.4 Argentina

7.3.5 Colombia

7.3.6 Rest of Central and South America and the Caribbean

7.4 Europe

7.4.1 Economic Overview

7.4.2 Market Scenario

7.4.3 Germany

7.4.4 France

7.4.5 The U.K.

7.4.6 Italy

7.4.7 The Rest Of Europe

7.5 Asia-Pacific (APAC)

7.5.1 Economic Overview

7.5.2 Market Scenario

7.5.3 China

7.5.4 Japan

7.5.5 India

7.5.6 Australia

7.5.7 South Korea

7.5.8 Rest Of APAC

7.6 Middle East

7.6.1 Economic Overview

7.6.2 Market Scenario

7.6.3 South Arabia

7.6.4 The UAE

7.6.5 Qatar

7.6.6 Oman

7.6.7 Turkey

7.6.8 The Rest Of Middle East

7.7 Africa

7.7.1 Economic Overview

7.7.2 Market Scenario

7.7.3 Nigeria

7.7.4 South Africa

7.7.5 The Rest Of Africa

8 Competitive Landscape  Manufacturers & Suppliers

8.1 Competition Dashboard

8.2 Industry Structure

8.3 Merck & Co., Inc.

8.3.1 Business Overview

8.3.2 Financial Performance

8.3.3 Recent Developments

8.3.4 Portfolio

8.4 Elanco

8.5 Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH

8.6 Zoetis.

9 Conclusion & Recommendation

10 Acronyms & Abbreviations



Table of Content and Figure @ https://straitsresearch.com/report/isoxazoline-drugs-market/toc





Market News

In January 2022 , Zoetis received approval from the US FDA for a new label indication for Simparica Trio (sarolaner, moxidectin, and pyrantel chewable tablets) for the treatment of tick infection in dogs.

In June 2021 , Elanco launched Credelio Plus, a chewy monthly tablet for treating fleas, worms, and ticks in dogs.

In May 2021 , Elanco introduced Credelio CAT, an oral ticks and flea product for cats. This drug starts killing fleas within 6 hours.

In May 2021, Zoetis announced US FDA approved a new label for Simparica chewables to prevent Borrelia burgdorferi infections for dogs at least six months of age or more.

In January 2021 , Boehringer Ingelheim announced they received marketing authorization from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and European Commission for NexGard COMBO topical solution for cats.

In July 2020, Merck Animal Health received US FDA approval for BRAVECTO (fluralaner) 1-MONTH Chews for dogs and puppies eight weeks of age and older. This product is indicated for treating and preventing flea infestations and tick infestations (Ixodes scapularis, Dermacentor variabilis, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus). It is also indicated for treatment and control of Amblyomma americanum (lone star tick).

News Media

How AI Is Laying The Foundation In The Discovery Of Drugs?

Rising Adoption of Pets to Soar the Demand for Isoxazoline Drugs Market





Have a Look at the Related Research Report

Veterinary Dermatology Drugs Market : Information by Drug (Antibiotics, Veterinary Antifungal Drugs), Animal Type (Large & Small Animals), End Users (Veterinary Hospitals)Forecast Till 2026

Animal Vaccine Market : Information by Product Type (Attenuated Vaccines, Toxoid Vaccines), Animal Type (Companion Animal, Livestock Animal, and Aquaculture), and Region  Forecast till 2030

Pet Food Ingredient Market : Information by Ingredients (Specialty Proteins, Amino Acids, Mold Inhibitors, Phosphates, Vitamins, Acidifiers, Carotenoids), and Region  Forecast till 2030





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BOUCHERVILLE, QC, Aug. 8, 2022 /CNW Telbec/ - JAMP Pharma Corporation ("JAMP") is voluntarily, on a precautionary basis, recalling one product lot of Atorvastatin tablets, 40 mg, 500-format (lot MHC1403A) to the retail level (type 1 recall).

JAMP Pharma Corporation Logo (CNW Group/JAMP Pharma Corporation)

On August 5th, 2022, JAMP initiated with Health Canada a voluntary recall of PrJAMP-Atorvastatin 40mg 500-format tablets (lot MHC1403A) due to a possible contamination of the lot with latex pieces during manufacturing operations.

JAMP takes compliance issues seriously and takes no chances when it comes to patient safety. Therefore, we recall the entire lot of PrJAMP-Atorvastatin 40 mg (lot MHC1403A). A thorough investigation was conducted at the manufacturing site to understand the factors that may have led to the current situation. The investigation concluded that it was an isolated incident involving a piece of a latex glove in a finished product.

Atorvastatin is a prescription drug used to treat high cholesterol and other fats (such as triglycerides) in the blood and to prevent cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks.

Risk statement: There is a risk in using latex on an individual who is sensitive or allergic to latex. Latex allergy is estimated to affect 1 to 2% of the general population. Allergic reactions following contact with latex can be acute or delayed. Latex is derived from the rubber tree sap, which is used to make many of the products we use today. Latex is ubiquitous in the healthcare industry, making up much of the equipment used, including catheters, balloons, and most commonly, gloves.

JAMP has already notified its wholesalers and distributors and is arranging the returns of the affected lot.

Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact JAMP Pharma Corporation by calling toll-free at 1-866-399-9091, extension 501, or by email at serviceclient@jamppharma.com. Consumers should contact their doctor or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using the drug product affected by this recall. Adverse reactions or any other issues experienced with the use of this product may be reported to Health Canada online, by using the form found at this website: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/medeffect-canada/adverse-reaction-reporting.html.

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About JAMP Pharma Corporation

JAMP Pharma is part of the JAMP Pharma Group, a privately-owned Quebec company headquartered in Montreal. Having enjoyed remarkable growth over the past 10 years, the JAMP Pharma Group is present in all pharmaceutical market segments, from over-the-counter products to biosimilars. JAMP Pharma has a portfolio of nearly 300 generic molecules and leads the Canadian pharmaceutical industry in terms of new generic product launches1. It also ranks among the country's top companies in terms of annual prescription volume2 according to IQVIA. The Group also has a Wampole-Laboratoire Suisse Division with more than 160 over-the-counter products, including a wide range of vitamins, supplements, and natural products, as well as prescription and branded products from its subsidiary Orimed Pharma. The BIOJAMP division recently introduced its first biosimilar product and has the ambition to offer one of the most complete offers on the Canadian market.

1 Pharmaceutical manufacturers with the highest volume of product launches in Canada from 2016 to 2021. Based in part on data obtained under licence from IQVIA Solutions Canada Inc., concerning the following information service: Canadian Drug Store and Hospital Audit, moving annual total from January to December 2016 to 2021. All Rights Reserved. The statement expressed herein is not necessarily that of IQVIA Solutions Canada Inc. or any of its affiliated or subsidiary entities.

2 Pharmaceutical manufacturers with the highest volume of prescriptions reported in Canada from January to August 2021. Based in part on data obtained under licence from IQVIA Solutions Canada Inc., concerning the following information service: CompuScript, January to August 2021. All Rights Reserved. The statement expressed herein is not necessarily that of IQVIA Solutions Canada Inc. or any of its affiliated or subsidiary entities.

SOURCE JAMP Pharma Corporation

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Press Release

August 9, 2022 Tulfo calls for probe into recurring power outages, rotational blackouts in PH Senator Idol Raffy Tulfo called for a Senate investigation into the persistent and recurring power outages and rotational blackouts in the different parts of the country, as well as the rising cost of electricity amid these power interruptions. Tulfo, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Energy, filed Proposed Senate Resolution (PSR) No. 107 seeking to find an immediate solution to an impending energy crisis and adopt necessary legislative measures that will provide long-term energy security, sufficiency and stability to all Filipinos. "Hindi ko tatantanan itong problemang ito hanggang hindi nabibigyan ng solusyon. Tamaan na ang dapat tamaan. Sagasaan na ang dapat sagasaan, para sa kapakanan at ikabubuti ng mga taong nire-represent ko at ng mga taong bumoto sa akin," he said in a press conference held at the Senate Press Office after the filing of the Proposed Resolution yesterday, Aug. 8. In filing PSR No. 107, Tulfo cited various reports claiming that by early to mid-2022, the Philippines might be in for a serious energy crisis, with allegations of thinning power reserves, outdated energy system and the impending depletion of the Malampaya gas fields. The most perplexing concerns relative to the alleged forthcoming energy crisis are the cases of Oriental Mindoro and Albay, with reports of power and electric supply interruptions pervasive almost every day in these provinces, thus, power outages unreasonably becoming a way of life to their residents. In June 2022, at least 78 power interruption notices were announced by APEC (Albay Power and Energy Corp.) on its social media account, with at least 39 of those were scheduled power interruptions and there were 37 emergency power interruptions. Both Oriental and Occidental Mindoro, meanwhile, have been enduring six to 14 hours of power outages every day since June 27 causing shortage in power supply affecting over a million of its residents. "This problem has been going on again and again. Ito pa ang masaklap, pagdating ng oras ng bayaran ng kuryente, mataas ang singil sa consumers at mayroon pang pagbabanta, sa mga residente ito ng Mindoro, na kapag hindi ka nagbayad on time doon sa mataas na singil ng kuryente, ay puputulan ka ng linya," he said. "Adding insult to the injury, napag-alaman ko, base sa isang reklamo sa aking program na 'Wanted sa Radyo,' na mayroon pang gana at kapal ng mukha itong mga taga-Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative o ORMECO na magpadagdag ng kanilang sweldo at bonus," he added. In his Resolution, Tulfo said the inexplicable power supply interruptions and power rate hikes have caused enormous discomfort, disturbance, and inconvenience to the Filipino people, essentially robbing them of their Constitutional right to quality life. Aside from consumers in Albay and Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, residents of Camarines Norte , Laoag City and Olongapo City have also demanded explanations from authorities, particularly from electric cooperatives, on the rising rates of electricity despite scarcity in supply. There were also numerous complaints regarding unfair electricity charges and power outages, particularly from the consumers of Oriental Mindoro, Nueva Ecija, Northern Samar, Pampanga, Batangas, Quezon Province, South Cotabato, Maguindanao, Laguna, Zamboanga, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Marinduque, Camarines Norte, Isabela, Masbate, Aurora, Bicol, Southern Leyte and Davao Oriental, abound in different social media forums.
Continued Global Growth of Khiron's Proven ZereniaTM Clinic Model

Focused on Patients, Physician Education and Innovation

New clinic is in the district of Ipanema in Rio de Janeiro, a city with more than 12 million people

Expansion into Brazil follows Khirons proven and unique patient acquisition and retention model

40 % of Zerenia patient appointments in Colombia and 95% of Zerenia patient appointments in the UK result in a medical cannabis prescription

In the initial phase of the 7,000 sq. ft. clinic, Brazil's First Zerenia Clinic will have a total capacity of approximately 23,000 patient consults per year

Under the leadership of Dr. Eduardo Faveret as Medical Director, the clinic will open with more than 13 doctors for both in-person and telehealth models

Brazil is Latin America's largest addressable market, with over 210 million people

TORONTO, Aug. 9, 2022 /CNW/ - Khiron Life Sciences Corp. ("Khiron" or the "Company") (TSXV: KHRN) (OTCQX: KHRNF) (Frankfurt: A2JMZC), a global leader in medical cannabis throughout Latin America and Europe, is pleased to announce the opening of Brazil's first Zerenia clinic in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro. The clinic is located at Vinicius de Moraes 201 Ipanema, with an initial top capacity of 23,000 patient consults per year. Khiron's Zerenia Rio clinic will be the first of its kind in Brazil.

Zerenia Rio clinic provide physical consultations and telehealth services, connecting patients with medical specialists trained in the ethical, safe, and responsible prescription of cannabinoid-based medications. These medications focus on the comprehensive treatment of pathologies such as chronic pain, neurological pathologies, palliative care, rheumatology, psychiatry, geriatrics, endocrinology, gastroenterology, gynecology, otorhinolaryngology, and dermatology.

Khiron Brazil Zerenia (CNW Group/Khiron Life Sciences Corp.)

Khiron Brazil Zerenia (CNW Group/Khiron Life Sciences Corp.)

Khiron Brazil Zerenia (CNW Group/Khiron Life Sciences Corp.)

Khiron Brazil Zerenia (CNW Group/Khiron Life Sciences Corp.)

Khiron Brazil Zerenia (CNW Group/Khiron Life Sciences Corp.)

Khiron is well positioned to expand Zerenia clinics in Brazil following its successful introduction in July 2021 of Khiron-branded medical CBD. Dr. Eduardo Faveret, a thought leader and innovator in medical cannabis, has been appointed as Medical Director and will be leading the clinic. Dr. Faveret and the Zerenia Rio clinic will be supported by Khiron's strategic alliances with doctors and patient associations, including CANNAB in Salvador de Bahia, and leading medical distributors such as TAIMIN in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

"Brazil continues to experience exponential growth in prescribing doctors and demand for medical cannabis products by patients. ZereniaTM Rio, is positioned as a comprehensive and humanized pioneer in patient health service and prevention to improve the quality of life of Brazilian families," commented Dr. Eduardo Faveret, Medical Director for Zerenia Rio clinic. He continued, "We have assembled a multidisciplinary medical team that covers diverse medical cannabis specialties and treatments, which makes our Zerenia Rio clinic unique in Brazil."

In the fall, Khiron is expected to launch additional THC medical cannabis products in the country, which will complement its current global portfolio.

Alvaro Torres, CEO and Director of Khiron Life Sciences, said: "Khiron has developed a unique, successful, and sustainable model with the implementation of Zerenia in Colombia, Peru, and the United Kingdom. Brazil is Latin Americas largest addressable market with more than 210 million people and we believe that our ZereniaTM model will replicate the success we have experienced around the world. We have served more than 25,000 individual patients across the globe through our model, with high peer patient acquisition and retention rates. We have a fantastic team on the ground in Brazil composed of doctors, nurses, patient advocates, and administrative staff in our Zerenia Rio clinic that will elevate our patient-first model to new levels. Khiron's ZereniaTM Rio clinic in Brazil will also allow us to continue to generate more patient-based evidence on the pharmacoeconomic benefits of our Khiron-branded medical cannabis products, and through this data, Khiron could eventually be able provide insurance benefits for patients as we have done in Colombia."

About Khiron Life Sciences Corp.

Khiron is a leading vertically integrated international medical cannabis corporation with core operations in Latin America and Europe. Leveraging medical health clinics and proprietary telemedicine platforms, Khiron combines a patient-oriented approach, physician education programs, scientific, product innovation, and cannabis operations expertise to drive prescriptions and brand loyalty with patients worldwide. The Company has a sales presence in Colombia, Peru, Germany, United Kingdom, and Brazil and is positioned to commence sales in Mexico. The Company is led by co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, Alvaro Torres, together with an experienced and diverse executive team and Board of Directors.

Visit Khiron online at https://investors.khiron.ca.

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/khiron-life-sciences-corp/

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All information contained herein that is not historical in nature constitutes forward-looking information. Forward-looking information and statements contained herein reflect management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available and on assumptions that management believes to be reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to, assumptions regarding the future regulatory developments and economic conditions, the Company's ability to continue its growth and reduce costs. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, estimates or opinions, future events or results or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.

Khiron Life Sciences Corp logo (CNW Group/Khiron Life Sciences Corp.)

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SOURCE Khiron Life Sciences Corp.

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FLORHAM PARK, N.J., Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- The Money Store is pleased to announce that Jeff Carter will join the company as the Chief Operating Officer. Carter has spent more than 22 years in the mortgage industry, with 17 years in leadership positions, running regional and national operations centers. Carter's impressive background working for Caliber, Bank of America, Security Mortgage, Washington Mutual, LoanDepot and NEO Home Loans is perfect for helping The Money Store with strategic growth and expansion.

Jeff Carter takes on COO role at The Money Store (NMLS #1019), a national mortgage lender.

As the new COO, Carter will be responsible for the Disclosure Desk, Opening, Processing, Underwriting and Closing. He will work with the existing management team and personnel in each of these areas to improve productivity, data integrity, customer experience and overall execution.

"I'm excited to join an organization celebrating its 50th year in business. I'm surrounded by seasoned mortgage professionals who have navigated the difficult times in this industry and have always found a way to survive and thrive during challenging times. The Money Store has made strategic moves over the years to be positioned well for the future, and I look forward to adding my contribution to the continued success of this company."

When Carter assumes his new role of Chief Operating Officer, current COO Peter Alvarez will become The Money Store's Chief Lending Officer. With the realignment in senior leadership, The Money Store is poised for tremendous growth.

About The Money Store

The Money Store is a direct mortgage lender located in Florham Park, New Jersey, and is licensed in 47 states. The company offers a wide range of mortgage programs to meet the needs of homeowners while also providing low rates and superior customer service. The Money Store's online-based service model includes a secure application process that tracks every step from inquiry to closing. Visit them online at www.themoneystore.com. For inquiries, contact Peter Alvarez (palvarez@themoneystore.com) or call (973) 295-3511.

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(PRNewsfoto/The Money Store(R))

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SOURCE The Money Store
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / August 9, 2022 / This notice is being sent to advise that Maple Leaf Short Duration 2021-II Flow-Through Limited Partnership - National Class (CUSIP Class A - 56532H101, CUSIP Class F - 56532H200 ) and Quebec Class (CUSIP Class A - 56532H309, Class F- 56532H408) (the "Partnership") will be proceeding with a transaction (the "Liquidity Transaction") pursuant to which the assets of the Partnership (the "Assets") will be transferred on a tax-deferred basis to the Maple Leaf Resource Class (the "Resource Class Mutual Fund"), a class of shares of Maple Leaf Corporate Funds Ltd., an open-ended mutual fund corporation, in exchange for Series A shares of the Mutual Fund.

Additional information about the Resource Class Mutual Fund is available in their simplified prospectus and annual information form. These documents are available at www.sedar.com and www.mapleleaffunds.ca.

How the Rollover Will Work:

Pursuant to the Liquidity Transaction, Limited Partners of the Partnership ("Investors") will receive shares of the Resource Class Mutual Fund in connection with the dissolution of the Partnership. The effective date of the Liquidity Transaction (the "Effective Date") is expected to be on or about Wednesday, October 19, 2022. Shortly after the Effective Date, the shares of the Resource Class Mutual Fund will be distributed on a pro rata basis to investors and thereafter the Partnership will be dissolved.

Investors will receive the Resource Class Mutual Fund shares in exchange for, and with a value equal to, the value of the units of the Partnership held at the time of such transfer of Assets. When the shares of the Resource Class Mutual Fund are received, the Partnership units will be removed from each Investors account. Processing may take 3 to 4 business days (in some cases longer) to complete, after the rolloveroccurs.

The Partnership will issue a press release once the Liquidity Transaction has been completed and the conversion ratio has been determined.

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The ACB (adjusted cost base) for each unit of the Partnership and each share of the Resource Class Mutual Fund will be determined by the General Partner upon the wind-up of the Partnership's affairs. The Partnership will dissolve within 60 days of the Effective Date. The General Partner will post these details on its website at www.mapleleaffunds.ca.

Investors should consult with their investment advisor and/or tax advisor for all tax-related matters.

Simplified Example:

An Investor holds 100 Partnership units with a final Net Asset Value of $20.00 at the time of rollover and the net asset value per share of the Resource Class Mutual Fund is $5.00 on the same date. Based on these net asset values, the conversion ratio will be

4.0 (4.0 = $20.00 / $5.00). The Investor's 100 units, valued at $2,000, are removed from the Investor's account and 400 shares (400 = 100 x 4.0) of the Resource Class Mutual Fund, valued at $2,000, are added to the Investor's account.

Processing can be delayed after the rollover occurs, therefore transactions such as switches or redemptions may not be processed until the Resource Class Mutual Fund shares have been credited to client accounts.

Neither the Partnership nor the Resource Class Mutual Fund will accept any liability for transactions executed prior to dealer records being updated.

Specific Information about the Mutual Fund:

Manager: CADO Investment Fund Management Inc. 609 Granville Street, Suite 808 Vancouver, British Columbia V7Y 1G5 Tel: 604-684-5742 Fax: 604-684-5748 Toll free: 1-866-688-5750 Email: info@cadobancorp.ca CADO Investment Fund Management Inc.is the manager of the Mutual Fund and is responsible for managing the overall business and operations of the Mutual Fund. Portfolio Advisor: Backer Wealth Management Inc. ("Backer") Toronto, Ontario Backer is responsible for managing the investment portfolio of the Funds. Custodian: RBC Investor & Treasury Services Toronto, Ontario The custodian has physical custody of the Mutual Fund's property. Administrator: The IAS Investment Administration Solution Inc. ("IAS") Toronto, Ontario The administrator keeps track of the owners of shares of the Mutual Fund and processes purchases. Auditor: KPMG LLP Vancouver, British Columbia The auditors are responsible for auditing the annual financial statements of the Mutual Fund. The auditors of the Mutual Fund may not be changed unless the independent review committee of the Mutual Fund has approved the change and a written notice describing the change is sent to unit holders at least 60 days before the effective date of the change. Independent Review Committee (the "IRC") Canadian securities legislation requires the Mutual Fund to have an IRC. The IRC is composed of three members, each of whom is independent of us. The mandate of the IRC is to review, and provide input on, our written policies and procedures that deal with conflict of interest matters in respect of the Mutual Fund and to give their recommendation regarding and, in some cases, approve, conflict of interest matters identified and referred to the IRC by us. The IRC will prepare, at least annually, a report of its activities for investors. This report will be available at our website at www.mapleleaffunds.ca or you may request a copy, at no cost to you, by contacting us at info@cadobancorp.ca. Additional information about the IRC, including the names of the members, is available in the Mutual Fund's Annual Information Form.

Portfolio Advisor:

Backer Wealth Manager Inc. ("Backer") will be responsible for the Mutual Fund's investment activities. Mr. Craig Porter, President of Backer, will act as Portfolio Manager on behalf of Backer. Mr. Porter has over 30 years of experience investing in the Canadian capital markets and was a Senior Portfolio Manager at Front Street Capital 2005 to 2017. Prior to that, he rose from his role as an equity analyst to portfolio manager at Altamira Management Ltd. and its successor Natcan Investment Management Inc. from 1992 to 2005.

During his tenure at Altamira, the firm was awarded the Precious Metals Equity Fund of the Year award at the Morningstar Canadian Investment Awards.

As lead or co-manager while working at Front Street Capital, Mr. Porter managed or co-managed over $900 million in flow-through limited partnerships, and in addition he managed the firm's resource equity and resource income mutual funds.

Additional Information:

Additional information about the Mutual Fund will be available in the Mutual Fund's simplified prospectus, annual information form, management reports of fund performance and financial statements. You can obtain a copy of these documents at your request and at no cost by contacting Maple Leaf Funds toll free at 1-866-688-5750, by e-mailing info@maplelelaffunds.ca, by download from www.mapleleaffunds.ca or from your financial advisor.

Other information about the Mutual Fund, is available at SEDAR (the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval established by the Canadian Securities Administrators) at www.sedar.com.

For further information or assistance with respect to the Mutual Fund or the Limited Partnership, please contact:

CADO Investment Fund Management Inc.

609 Granville Street, Suite 808, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1G5

Tel: 604-684-5742 | Toll Free: 866-688-5750 | Fax: 604-684-5748

Email: info@cadobancorp.ca| Web: www.mapleaffunds.ca

SOURCE: Maple Leaf Short Duration 2021-II Flow-Through Limited Partnership National & Quebec Class





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/711481/Notice-of-Rollover-Transaction--Maple-Leaf-Short-Duration-2021-II-Flow-through-Limited-Partnership-National-Class-Quebec-Class




Since she passed away, there have been a lot of questions over how Olivia Newton-John died and what her cause of death was? She battled with her health for more than 30 years, but she was a fighter until the end.

Dame Olivia Newton-John was born on September 26, 1948, in Cambridge, United Kingdom. Her family moved to Melbourne, Australia, when she was six years old. Newton-Johns music career started in 1966 when she released her first single, Till You Say Youll Be Mine. She released her first album, If Not For You, in 1971. The album peaked at number 14 on the Australian album charts and 158 on the American album charts. Newton-John went on to release three more albumsOlivia, Let Me Be There and Long Live Lovebefore her breakout record, Have You Never Been Mellow, in 1975. The album became Newton-Johns first number one on the Billboard 200 charts and featured hit singles like Have You Never Been Mellow and Please Mr. Please. Newton-John went on to release a total of 26 albums throughout her career, including bestselling records like Clearly Love, Come on Over, Totally Hot and Physical, which featured Newton-Johns 1981 smash single of the same name. The song, which is seen as Newton-Johns biggest hit, has since sold more than two million copies in the United States and spent 10 weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

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Along with her music career, Newton-John was also a successful actress, having starred in films like Toomorrow, Xanadu and Two of a Kind. Her most well-known role was as Sandy Olsson in 1978s Grease, a movie adaptation of the 1971 musical of the same name. The film, which co-starred John Travolta as Danny Zuko, made history as the highest-grossing musical film ever at the time of its release and even earned an Oscar nomination for the song Hopelessly Devoted to You performed by Newton-John.

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In an interview with Vanity Fair in 2016, Newton-John revealed that she almost didnt take her role in Grease because of her busy music career. I was very anxious about making another film, because my music career was going well, Newton-John said at the time. And I did not want to mess it up by doing another movie that wasnt good. Director Randal Kleiser also wasnt sure Newton-John could play Sandy because of the reputation she had from her music career. I remember meeting her for the first time at that party and thinking, Well. Have You Never Been Mellow? How is that going to work? How is she going to become this slut? he told Vanity Fair.

What convinced Kleiser was a conversation with Travolta who convinced him that Newton-John was the perfect Sandy. She had a brilliant voice, and I didnt think there could be any more correct person for Sandy in the universe, Travolta said. I never let up on it. I insisted that she be met and that we cast her.

So how did Olivia Newton-John die and what was her cause of death? Read on for what we know about how Olivia Newton-John died ahead and how her family and friends are remembering her legacy.

How did Olivia Newton-John die?

Image: Charles Bush/Courtesy: Everett Collection.

How did Olivia Newton-John die? Newton-John died at her ranch in Santa Ynez, California, on the morning of August 8, 2022. She was 73 years old. She was surrounded by friends and family, and passed away peacefully. Her husband, John Easterling, confirmed her death in an Instagram post on the day of her death. Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends. We ask that everyone please respect the familys privacy during this very difficult time. the post read. Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer. Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made in her memory to the @onjfoundation.

The post continued, Olivia is survived by her husband John Easterling; daughter Chloe Lattanzi; sister Sarah Newton-John; brother Toby Newton-John; nieces and nephews Tottie, Fiona and Brett Goldsmith; Emerson, Charlie, Zac, Jeremy, Randall, and Pierz Newton-John; Jude Newton-Stock, Layla Lee; Kira and Tasha Edelstein; and Brin and Valerie Hall.  via John Easterling, husband, Olivia Newton-John.

Newton-Johns niece, Tottie Goldsmith, told A Current Affair at the time that her aunts death wasnt a shock. Its not a shock  weve known how sick shes been, especially in the last five days, she said. It wasnt just the cancer that got her; it was other complications, being in a hospital and with a very susceptible immune system. She got secondary infections. She really went down in the past five, six days. Though Newton-John used medical cannabis to deal with the pain of her stage 4 breast cancer, Goldsmith told the news program that the drug didnt help much toward the end of her life. It wasnt enough, she said. [She] really struggled with a lot of pain. Goldsmith also recalled the last conversation she had with Newton-John before she died. I told her all the things I needed to say, she said. She was leaving us, but I feel like she got itShe was really skinny and unwell and I said to her, Are you afraid of dying? and she said, Im not afraid. Ive done more in my life that I could have ever imagined.

Newton-Johns Grease co-star, Didi Conn, also told Good Morning America at the time that her late cast mate wasnt walking anymore and that she had full-time care before her death. Her husband, John, and her daughter, Chloe, were there all the time and she told me that they were just so hopelessly devoted, she said.

Newton-John has one child, a daughter named Chloe Rose Lattanzi. She shares Chloe with ex-husband, Matt Lattanzi, whom she was married to from 1984 to 1995. Newton-John married her second husband, John Easterling, in 2008. They were married until her death in 2022. After Newton-Johns death, her Grease co-star, John Travolta, took to his Instagram with a tribute to his late cast mate. Travolta played Danny Zuko to Newton-Johns Sandy Olsson in 1978s Grease. My dearest Olivia, you made all of our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible. I love you so much. We will see you down the road and we will all be together again. Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever! Your Danny, your John, Travolta captioned a throwback photo of Newton-John.

What was Olivia Newton-Johns cause of death?

Image: Charles Bush/Courtesy: Everett Collection.

What was Olivia Newton-Johns cause of death? Newton-Johns cause of death hasnt been confirmed, but a source told TMZ at the time of her death that she died of metastatic breast cancer. After a 30-year cancer journey, she lost her battle to metastatic breast cancer, the insider said. Newton-John was first diagnosed with breast cancer in August 1992 when she was 43 years old. I draw strength from the millions of women who have faced this challenge successfully, she said in a statement at the time. This has been detected early because Ive had regular examinations, so I encourage other women to do the same.

Newton-Johns announcement came less than a day after she underwent a partial mastectomy of her right breast at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California. Shes doing just fine, her representative, Sylvi Brown, said at the time.Newton-John declined to talk to reporters as she entered the hospital. Im just too upset to say anything, she said at the time, according to People. I just want to get well.

In May 2017, when she was 68 years old, Newton-John announced that her breast cancer had spread after doctors discovered that the cancer had metastasized to the sacrum, a bone at the base of her spine. Newton-Johns announcement came after she postponed the first half of her concert tour at the time due to severe back pain from what she believed was sciatica. Medical tests later discovered that the pain was due to her cancer. Olivia Newton-John is reluctantly postponing her June U.S. and Canadian concert tour dates. The back pain that initially caused her to postpone the first half of her concert tour, has turned out to be breast cancer that has metastasized to the sacrum, read a statement on Newton-Johns Facebook at the time. In addition to natural wellness therapies, Olivia will complete a short course of photon radiation therapy and is confident she will be back later in the year, better than ever, to celebrate her shows.

In her own statement, Newton-John explained that she decided on the treatment for her cancer based on the advice from her medical team at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre in her hometown of Melbourne, Australia. She founded the center in 2008.

I decided on my direction of therapies after consultation with my doctors and natural therapists and the medical team at my Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre in Melbourne, Australia, she said. A source also told People at the time that Newton john hoped to return to her tour later that year. She plans to be touring in August. Theyre all very positive, the insider said.

Newton Johns first breast cancer diagnosis came after the death of her father, Brinley Newton-John, in 1992. The return of her cancer in 2013 came after the death of her older sister, Rona. Newton-John learned of her cancers returned after she was involved in a car accident.

In an interview with The Guardian in 2020, Newton-John revealed that she had to learn how to walk again in 2018 after her cancer had spread so much that she had fractured the base of her spine. I was so weak. I had a walker, a cane and crutches, but now Im walking around, she said. She told the publication that one way she kept her spirits up was by singing a song she created about her health. Im healthy, Im strong, she said. I think its very important to keep that positive message in your head. You know, if you have a difficult moment, music is always a great healer.

Newton-John also told the publication that she wasnt surprised when her breast cancer returned in 2013. Its been a part of my life for so long. I felt something was wrong. Its concerning when it comes back, but I thought: Ill get through it again,' she said. Along with surgery, chemotherapy and radio therapy, Newton-John also credited medical cannabisa drug she was introduced to by her husband, John, who grew the plant at their Southern California ranch as part of his business. Newton-Johns daughter Chloe also owned a marijuana farm in Oregon. I was nervous of it in the beginning. But I could see the benefits once I started using it. It helps with anxiety, it helps with sleep, it helps with pain, she said. Newton-John also denied that she was recommending medical cannabis as an alternative therapy for all cancer patients. Im not telling anyone to do anything, she said. I just want to do the research and find out which things work.

Newton-John also told The Guardian about what shes learned form her cancer diagnosis, as well as other experiences shes had, such as her multiple miscarriages before she had her daughter, Chloe, and her ex-boyfriend, Patrick McDermott, who went missing in 2005 and was never found. Ive been through a lot of different experiences, some painful, some difficult, she said. As you get older, you grow some wisdom. You realise that you will get through this and you will survive it. Like the pandemic  these things happen, but life goes on. We will all learn and grow a lot from this. I think therell be positive things that come out of it.

She continued, I dont think of myself as sick with cancer. I choose not to see it as a fight either because I dont like war. I dont like fighting wherever it is  whether its outside or an actual war inside my body. I choose not to see it that way. I want to get my body healthy and back in balance. Part of that is your mental attitude to it. If you think: Poor me, or Im sick, then youre going to be sick.

Newton-John also explained to The Guardian about why she doesnt view her cancer, which led her to open the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre, as a death sentence. I dont know what I would be without it now, she said. I see it as my lifes journey. It gave me purpose and intention and taught me a lot about compassion. It has been a gift. I dont wish it on anyone else. But for me, its been important in my life. She also told the publication about why shes no longer afraid of death. Listen, I think every day is a blessing. You never know when your time is over; we all have a finite amount of time on this planet, and we just need to be grateful for that, she said.

Image: Courtesy of Gallery Books.

Buy: BUY NOW: $14.95+

For more about Olivia Newton-John, read her memoir, Dont Stop Believin. The 2019 New York Times bestseller takes readers through Newton-Johns life in her own words, from how she was cast in career-making movies like Grease and Xanadu to how she became one of the worlds bestselling recording artists of all time, with more than 100 million albums sold and four Grammys under her belt. The book also provides an intimate look at Newton-Johns life, including her cancer diagnosis in 1992 and how her strength, courage and grace led her to open the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre in her hometown of Melbourne, Australia, and dedicate her life to cancer research. Warm, candid, and moving, Dont Stop Believin is Olivia Newton-Johns story in her own words for the very first time, the publishers description reads.

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Paqui's 2022 #OneChipChallenge returns, featuring two of the hottest peppers in the world  so hot it will shock your tongue blue

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 9, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Paqui Tortilla Chips , part of Amplify Snack Brands, announced today the return of the (hot as hell) PAQUI ONE CHIP CHALLENGE for its sixth year. The 2022 One Chip Challenge is so shocking that only the bravest will dare to face The Reaper. Made with two of the hottest peppers in the world, Carolina Reaper Pepper and Scorpion Pepper, this high voltage chip was created for the shocking pleasure of intense heat and pain. The only way to prove you've dared to take on this year's #OneChipChallenge is to show off your blue tongue.

Paqui 2022 One Chip Challenge

"Each year, the team here at Paqui raises the bar and develops an intensely thrilling challenge that pushes the fearless to their limit," said Paqui Senior Brand Manager, Brandon Kieffer. "Fans be warned, this year's chip isn't for the faint of heart and there's no cheating the test. Only the bravest will be able to prove they faced the Reaper when they show off their blue tongue after completing the challenge."

Stay tuned for the PAQUI ONE CHIP CHALLENGE Hot Ones special episode that airs Aug. 25 on First We Feast's YouTube channel, featuring a gnarly guest star trying the #OneChipChallenge.

Priced at $8.99 USD, the 2022 PAQUI ONE CHIP CHALLENGE is all thriller and no filler, made with seasoning ingredients that create an intense spice combination that will humble even the toughest of participants. Those who dare to handle the heat can go to Paqui.com/onechipchallenge and Amazon to purchase the chip online or can shop at local participating retailers .

PROVE IT - SHOW US YOUR TONGUE

Fans who are brave enough to face The Reaper should share this year's experience on social media by showing off their blue tongue and tagging @paquichips with the hashtag #OneChipChallenge on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. Fans can spread the heat and dare their friends, enemies, or frenemies to the challenge and see if they too can handle the shock of this year's PAQUI ONE CHIP CHALLENGE.

Story continues

FIERCE FLAVORS YEAR ROUND

The Paqui everyday lineup of delicious and spicy chips can help train taste buds for the PAQUI ONE CHIP CHALLENGE, including Haunted Ghost Pepper.

Ranked from "Freakin' Hot to Not Hot," Paqui flavors include :

Haunted Ghost Pepper: The spiciest and most popular flavor of Paqui's lineup, these chips are freakin' hot and contain a mix of Ghost Pepper, Cayenne Pepper and Chipotle Pepper.

Fiery Chile Limon: Known to pack a spicy punch from red chile peppers and a kick of lime, this chip is a dynamic mix of spicy and tart.

Jalapeno Tropicale: The perfect blend of sweet and heat with spicy jalapenos and a touch of pineapple flavors.

Zesty Salsa Verde: One of the milder flavors, but this chip still has a kick with a combination of tangy tomatillos and smooth sour cream.

Mucho Nacho Cheese: Made with real cheddar and real spices, Mucho Nacho Cheese is a nacho lover's dream and will satisfy cheesy tortilla chip cravings without artificial flavors and ingredients.

Paqui's everyday chips are Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten free and contain no artificial flavors or preservatives.

About Amplify Snack Brands, Inc.

Acquired by The Hershey Company in 2018, Amplify Snack Brands, Inc. is a family of brands, including SkinnyPop, Paqui, and Pirate's Booty dedicated to sharing our simple, tastier idea of what good snacks should be. Together we've proven that when you start with the right premium ingredients, you don't need anything extra to make something truly special. In short, our snacks are made with the fewest, cleanest, and simplest ingredients possible to craft the best tasting products. We don't want to say that we've set the bar in better-for-you snacking, because the truth is, we're still busy raising it. Our company is headquartered in Austin, Texas. For additional information, visit amplifysnackbrands.com .

CONTACT: Media Contact

Edible for Paqui

TheReaper@edible-inc.com

Paqui logo

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-paqui-one-chip-challenge-is-back-for-its-sixth-year-summoning-all-spice-lovers-to-experience-the-reaper-like-never-before-with-a-new-shocking-twist-301596284.html

SOURCE Amplify Snack Brands, Inc.
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The global Plastic Pallet Market size market was valued at USD 7,165 million in 2021. By 2030, it is predicted to reach USD 18,207 million with a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period (2022-2030). Asia-Pacific dominates the global plastic pallet market and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% by 2030.

New York, United States, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Plastic pallets are rigid structures that hold goods in place during transportation or storage. They play an essential role in the supply chain and logistics industries. Plastic pallets have numerous advantages over other types of pallets. Today around 90% of pallets are manufactured with recycled plastic. The most used recycled plastic is high-density polyethylene. On the other hand, some manufacturers used post-industrial scrap, including rubber, silicates, and polypropylene.





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Growing Need to Reduce the Overall Weight of Bulk Packaging Drives the Market for Plastic Pallets

The need to reduce the weight of overall bulk packaging is growing day by day. The importance of the consignment or shipment during transportation is an essential factor in determining the cost of the finished product. It is common for the transportation cost of a product to exceed its production cost, reducing the overall profit margin. Plastic pallets are significantly lighter than wooden or metal pallets, which is expected to entice end-user companies to use them.

The deadweight of a company is the weight of a container or packaging used to transport materials or products. More packaging weight means higher transportation costs, which limits manufacturers' options. This is expected to increase demand for low-weight packaging materials capable of reducing deadweight while improving material handling and transportation efficiency.





Expanding End-Use Industries to Create New Market Opportunities for Plastic Pallets

The primary end-use industries for plastic pallets are food and pharmaceutical. Plastic pallets are increasingly replacing wooden pallets because sanitation and safety are top priorities in both sectors. Large volumes of raw materials are handled, stored, and transported daily in the processed food industry. Plastic pallets are widely used for material handling throughout manufacturing and transportation.

Story continues

As a result of an increasingly hectic lifestyle and an expanding middle-class population, the global processed food industry has grown significantly. Furthermore, the rapid introduction of new food and beverage products, combined with rising e-commerce and organized retail penetration, has resulted in the growth of the processed food industry. Key food manufacturers are rapidly expanding their manufacturing capacity and distribution networks.





Report Scope

Report Metric Details Market Size USD 18.20 Billion by 2030 CAGR 5.8% (2022-2030) Historical Data 2019-2020 Base Year 2021 Forecast Period 2022-2030 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion ) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Materials, Type and End-User Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAME and Rest of the World Key Companies Profiled/Vendors Orbis Corporation ,Rehrig Pacific Company ,Monoflo International ,CABKA Group ,Perfect Pallets Inc. ,Greystone Logistics ,Polymer Solutions International Inc. ,TMF Corporation ,Allied Plastics Inc. ,TranPak Inc. Key Market Opportunities Expanding End-Use Industries Key Market Drivers Rising Demand to Lower the Overall Weight of Bulk Packaging

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Regional Insights

Asia-Pacific dominates the global plastic pallet market and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7%. Asia-Pacific has become a manufacturing hub (TPP) because of the countries participating in the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement. TPP is a free trade agreement that has strengthened the region's trade and manufacturing sectors, driving demand for plastic pallets over the years

North America holds the second-largest share in the global plastic pallet market. It is expected to reach USD 3,333 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.5%. This is due to increased demand for plastic pallets from end-user industries, particularly domestic supply chains. The robust manufacturing industry, particularly in the United States, contributed to the region's significant share.

Europe is expected to witness substantial growth during the forecast period. Through E.U. treaties, the European Union has supported sustainable development by recognizing the environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The European Commission published a new roadmap for sustainability in the E.U.'s economy in December 2019, significantly impacting end-use industries because the objectives pushed them to adopt green packaging, including reusable plastic pallets.





Key Highlights

The global plastic pallets market size was estimated at USD 7,165 million in 2021, and it is expected to reach USD 18,207 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period (20222030).

Based on materials , the global plastic pallet market is segmented into High-Density Polyethylene, Low-Density Polyethylene, Polypropylene, and Others. High-density polypropylene (HDPE) accounts for the largest share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% by 2030. Since HDPE is exceptionally durable and has high impact resistance, HDPE pallets sustain little or no damage from rough handling by forklifts and other material handling equipment.

Based on type, the global plastic pallet market is segmented into Nestable, Rackable, Stackable, and Others. Nestable Pallets account for the largest share and are expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% by 2030. Nestable pallets are less expensive than rackable and stackable pallets, making them an excellent plastic pallet option for export or open-loop supply chain applications. In the coming years, the growing need to reduce the weight of bulk transportation is expected to favor the growth of nestable pallets.

Based on end-user , the global plastic pallet market is segmented into Food & Beverages, Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Petroleum & Lubricants, and Others. Food and Beverages dominate the global plastic pallet market and are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% by 2030. The food and beverage industry has witnessed considerable growth over the past few years because of changing lifestyles, convenience, and increased penetration of retail stores.

Based on regions, the global plastic pallet market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Central and South America, and the Middle East and Africa. North America acquires the second-largest position in the market.





Competitive Landscape

Key players in the global plastic pallet market are

Orbis Corporation

Rehrig Pacific Company

Monoflo International

CABKA Group

Perfect Pallets Inc

Greystone Logistics

Polymer Solutions International Inc

TMF Corporation

Allied Plastics Inc

TranPak Inc.





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Global Plastic Pallet Market: Segmentation

By Materials

High-Density Polyethylene

Low-Density Polyethylene

Polypropylene

Others

By Type

Nestable

Rackable

Stackable

Others

By End-User

Food and Beverages

Chemicals

Pharmaceutical

Petroleum and Lubricants

Others

By Regions

North America

Europe

Asia-Pacific

Central and South America

The Middle East and Africa

TABLE OF CONTENT

Introduction Market Definition Market Scope Research Methodology Primary Research Research Methodology Assumptions & Exclusions Secondary Data Sources Market Overview Report Segmentation & Scope Value Chain Analysis: Plastic Pallet Market Key Market Trends Drivers Restraints Opportunities Porters Five Forces Analysis Bargaining Power of Suppliers Bargaining Power of Buyers Threat of Substitution Threat of New Entrants Competitive Rivalry Market Share Analysis Materials Overview Introduction Market Size & Forecast High-Density Polyethylene Market Size & Forecast Low-Density Polyethylene Market Size & Forecast Polypropylene Market Size & Forecast Type Overview Introduction Market Size & Forecast Nestable Market Size & Forecast Rackable Market Size & Forecast Regional Overview Introduction Market Size & Forecast America North America U.S. By Materials By Materials Canada By Materials By Materials Mexico By Materials By Materials Latin America By Materials By Materials Europe Market Size & Forecast Germany By Materials By Materials France By Materials By Materials U.K. By Materials By Materials Italy By Materials By Materials Spain By Materials By Materials Rest of Europe By Materials By Materials Asia Pacific Market Size & Forecast Japan By Materials By Materials China By Materials By Materials Australia By Materials By Materials India By Materials By Materials South Korea By Materials By Materials Rest of Asia-Pacific By Materials By Materials Middle East & Africa Market Size & Forecast Saudi Arabia By Materials By Materials South Africa By Materials By Materials Kuwait By Materials By Materials Rest of Middle East & Africa By Materials By Materials Company Profile The Orbis Corporation Company Overview Financial Performance Recent Developments Product Portfolio Rehrig Pacific Company Company Overview Financial Performance Recent Developments Product Portfolio Monoflo International Company Overview Financial Performance Recent Developments Product Portfolio CABKA Group Company Overview Financial Performance Recent Developments Product Portfolio





Table of Content and Figure @ https://straitsresearch.com/report/plastic-pallet-market/toc





Market News

In January 2022 , Greystone Logistics, Inc. commenced shipping pallets for a recently USD 13.5 million purchase order to provide 100% recycled 48x40 plastic shipping pallets for a nationwide retailer at one of their U.S. warehouse distribution centers.

In March 2022, Cabka Group GmbH (together with its subsidiaries, "Cabka"), a leading integrated circular production company, and Dutch Star Companies TWO B.V. ("DSCT"), a particular purpose acquisition company listed on Euronext Amsterdam, reached an agreement on forming a business combination to list as Cabka N.V.





News Media

Rising Demand for TiO2 from Plastic and Rubber Industry Drives the Titanium Dioxide Market

Polyvinyl Chloride Cliques for an Ambitious Target in Construction Plastic Market





Have a Look at the Related Research Report

Plastic Market : Information by Product Outlook (Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP)), Application Outlook (Injection Molding, Blow Molding), and Region  Forecast till 2030

Recycled Plastic Market: Information by Product (Polyethylene, Polyethylene Terephthalate), Source (Plastic Bottles, Plastic Films), Application (Building & Construction, Packaging, Electrical), and Region  Forecast till 2030

Polyamide Market: Information by Product (Polyamide 6, Polyamide 66, Bio-Based Polyamide, Specialty Polyamide), Application (Engineering Plastics, Fibers), and Region  Forecast till 2030





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The global route optimization software market was valued at USD 3,729 million. It is expected to reach USD 12,416 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 11.56%. North America dominated the route optimization software market. The market in Asia-Pacific is predicted to increase significantly, during the forecast period.

New York, United States, Aug. 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Route optimization software finds usage in the user's fleet management systems. This program incorporates GPS monitoring and comprehensive reporting tools that help dispatchers design more fuel-efficient routes, avoid unexpected pauses, and decrease delivery network bottlenecks.

Rising Organic Farming to Increase the Demand for Route Optimization Software

For the previous decade, the European organic market has expanded rapidly. By the end of 2017, 14.6 million hectares of land in Europe were farmed organically. In Europe, there are over 5300 importers, and the region's importers have experienced rapid expansion. As of 2017, Europe accounted for 60% of all food waste, with spoiling accounting for an average of 21% of waste. As a result, corporations are increasingly using route optimization software to deliver these perishable items.





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Introduction of Route Optimization Software as a Service Model

The software as a service route planning methodology is different from traditional route planning. This concept eliminates the need for infrastructure, setup fees, and dedicated resource costs. Since SaaS is scalable, it is expected that other organizations would use it. It also eliminates the need for many devices in every car to conduct GPS tracking, navigation, and other services. The SaaS model route optimization is expected to gain popularity during the forecast period.





Impact of COVID-19

Avoiding human contact by ordering groceries online increases demand for supermarket delivery services. This benefited internet retailers and e-commerce businesses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, route optimization software was in demand. Route optimization software reduced truck idling time and increased delivery executive efficiency by assigning ideal routes, enhancing the route optimization software company during the pandemic crisis.

Story continues





Report Scope

Report Metric Details Market Size USD 12.41 Billion by 2030 CAGR 11.56 % (2022-2030) Historical Data 2019-2020 Base Year 2021 Forecast Period 2022-2030 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Enterprise, Deployment, Vertical ,Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, LAME and Rest of the World Key Companies Profiled/Vendors Bringg, Caliper Corporation, FarEye, FASTLEANSMART, AMCS Group, Jungleworks, LogiNext Mile, Mara Labs, Inc (Locus), Maxoptra  Magenta, Omnitracs Key Market Opportunities Rising Popularity of Online Shopping to Boost the Market Growth Key Market Drivers Increasing Adoption of Route Optimization Software by Logistics Companies

Buy Now Full Report @ https://straitsresearch.com/buy-now/route-optimization-software-market





Regional Insights

North America dominated the route optimization software market. Vendors in this market have created cutting-edge route optimization software solutions for location analytics to meet the needs of various sectors, including taxi service providers, restaurant chains, FMCG, and others.

The Asia-Pacific market is expected to grow rapidly over the projected period. Regulators and industry experts agree that effective management of IoT-linked devices is required. ANI Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Uber India Technology, Kiwitaxi, and others are among the firms that operate in this market.





Key Highlights

The global route optimization software market was valued at USD 3,729 million. It is expected to reach USD 12,416 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 11.56%.

The on-premise segment has acquired the largest market share as it increases customer retention and profits. It also helps attract new customers, enhances business-to-customer communication, ensures consumer satisfaction, and allows future development.

Market leaders are introducing new route features in Google Maps. Google Maps will collaborate with route optimization technologies to provide users with timely updates.





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Competitive Players in the route optimization software Market

Bringg

Caliper Corporation

FarEye

FASTLEANSMART

AMCS Group

Jungleworks

LogiNext Mile

Mara Labs, Inc (Locus)

Maxoptra  Magenta

Omnitracs





Global Route Optimization Software Market: Segmentation

By Enterprise

Large Enterprises

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises

By Deployment

On-Premise

Cloud

By Vertical

Transportation and Logistics

Business and Home Services

Government and Public Safety

Construction and Heavy Equipments

Others

Regions Covered

North America

Europe

Asia-Pacific

South America and the Middle East and Africa





TABLE OF CONTENT

1 Introduction

1.1 Market Definition

1.2 Market Scope

2 Research Methodology

2.1 Primary Research

2.2 Research Methodology

2.3 Assumptions & Exclusions

2.4 Secondary Data Sources

3 Market Overview

3.1 Report Segmentation & Scope

3.2 Value Chain Analysis: Global Route Optimization Software Market

3.3 Key Market Trends

3.3.1 Drivers

3.3.2 Restraints

3.3.3 Opportunities

3.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis

3.4.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

3.4.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers

3.4.3 Threat of Substitution

3.4.4 Threat of New Entrants

3.4.5 Competitive Rivalry

3.5 Market Share Analysis

3.6 Potential Venture Avenues

4 Industry Vertical Overview

4.1 Introduction

4.1.1 Market Size & Forecast

4.2 Transportation and logistics

4.2.1 Market Size & Forecast

4.3 Business and home services

4.3.1 Market Size & Forecast

4.4 Government and public safety

4.4.1 Market Size & Forecast

4.5 Others

4.5.1 Market Size & Forecast

5 Organization Size Overview

5.1 Introduction

5.1.1 Market Size & Forecast

5.2 SMEs

5.2.1 Market Size & Forecast

5.3 Large Enterprises

5.3.1 Market Size & Forecast

6 Deployment Type Overview

6.1 Introduction

6.1.1 Market Size & Forecast

6.2 On-premise

6.2.1 Market Size & Forecast

6.3 Cloud

6.3.1 Market Size & Forecast

7 Regional Overview

7.1 Introduction

7.1.1 Market Size & Forecast

7.2 North America

7.2.1 Market Size & Forecast

7.2.2 U.S.

7.2.2.1 By Industry Vertical

7.2.2.2 By Organization Size

7.2.3 Canada

7.2.3.1 By Industry Vertical

7.2.3.2 By Organization Size

7.2.4 Mexico

7.2.4.1 By Industry Vertical

7.2.4.2 By Organization Size

7.3 Europe

7.3.1 Market Size & Forecast

7.3.2 Germany

7.3.2.1 By Industry Vertical

7.3.2.2 By Organization Size

7.3.3 France

7.3.3.1 By Industry Vertical

7.3.3.2 By Organization Size

7.3.4 U.K

7.3.4.1 By Industry Vertical

7.3.4.2 By Organization Size

7.3.5 Italy

7.3.5.1 By Industry Vertical

7.3.5.2 By Organization Size

7.3.6 Spain

7.3.6.1 By Industry Vertical

7.3.6.2 By Organization Size

7.3.7 Russia

7.3.7.1 By Industry Vertical

7.3.7.2 By Organization Size

7.3.8 Poland

7.3.8.1 By Industry Vertical

7.3.8.2 By Organization Size

7.3.9 Rest of Europe

7.3.9.1 By Industry Vertical

7.3.9.2 By Organization Size

7.4 Asia Pacific

7.4.1 Market Size & Forecast

7.4.2 Japan

7.4.2.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.2.1 By Organization Size

7.4.3 China

7.4.3.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.3.2 By Organization Size

7.4.4 Australia

7.4.4.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.4.2 By Organization Size

7.4.5 India

7.4.5.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.5.2 By Organization Size

7.4.6 South Korea

7.4.6.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.6.2 By Organization Size

7.4.7 Vietnam

7.4.7.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.7.2 By Organization Size

7.4.8 Indonesia

7.4.8.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.8.2 By Organization Size

7.4.9 Malaysia

7.4.9.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.9.2 By Organization Size

7.4.10 Singapore

7.4.10.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.10.2 By Organization Size

7.4.11 Rest of Asia-Pacific

7.4.11.1 By Industry Vertical

7.4.11.2 By Organization Size

7.5 LATAM

7.5.1 Market Size & Forecast

7.5.2 Brazil

7.5.2.1 By Industry Vertical

7.5.2.2 By Organization Size

7.5.3 Argentina

7.5.3.1 By Industry Vertical

7.5.3.2 By Organization Size

7.5.4 Colombia

7.5.4.1 By Industry Vertical

7.5.4.2 By Organization Size

7.5.5 Rest of LATAM

7.5.5.1 By Industry Vertical

7.5.5.2 By Organization Size

7.6 Middle East

7.6.1 Market Size & Forecast

7.6.2 Saudi Arabia

7.6.2.1 By Industry Vertical

7.6.2.2 By Organization Size

7.6.3 Oman

7.6.3.1 By Industry Vertical

7.6.3.2 By Organization Size

7.6.4 Qatar

7.6.4.1 By Industry Vertical

7.6.4.2 By Organization Size

7.7.5 Bahrain

7.7.5.1 By Industry Vertical

7.7.5.2 By Organization Size

7.6.6 UAE

7.6.6.1 By Industry Vertical

7.6.6.2 By Organization Size

7.6.7 Rest of Middle East

7.6.7.1 By Industry Vertical

7.6.7.2 By Organization Size

7.7 Africa

7.7.1 Market Size & Forecast

7.7.2 Nigeria

7.7.2.1 By Industry Vertical

7.7.2.2 By Organization Size

7.7.3 Tanzania

7.7.3.1 By Industry Vertical

7.7.3.2 By Organization Size

7.7.4 South Africa

7.7.4.1 By Industry Vertical

7.7.4.2 By Organization Size

7.7.5 Ghana

7.7.5.1 By Industry Vertical

7.7.5.2 By Organization Size

7.7.6 Rest of Africa

7.7.6.1 By Industry Vertical

7.7.6.2 By Organization Size

8 Company Profile

8.1 Verizon Connect

8.1.1 Company Overview

8.1.2 Financial Performance

8.1.3 Recent Developments

8.1.4 Industry Vertical Portfolio

8.2 Caliper Corporation

8.2.1 Company Overview

8.2.2 Financial Performance

8.2.3 Recent Developments

8.2.4 Industry Vertical Portfolio

8.3 FarEye

8.3.1 Company Overview

8.3.2 Financial Performance

8.3.3 Recent Developments

8.3.4 Industry Vertical Portfolio

8.4 FLS  FASTLEANSMART

8.4.1 Company Overview

8.4.2 Financial Performance

8.4.3 Recent Developments

8.4.4 Industry Vertical Portfolio

8.5 Maxoptra

8.5.1 Company Overview

8.5.2 Financial Performance

8.5.3 Recent Developments

8.5.4 Industry Vertical Portfolio

8.6 The Descartes Systems Group Inc.

8.6.1 Company Overview

8.6.2 Financial Performance

8.6.3 Recent Developments

8.6.4 Industry Vertical Portfolio

8.7 Trimble Inc.

8.7.1 Company Overview

8.7.2 Financial Performance

8.7.3 Recent Developments

8.7.4 Industry Vertical Portfolio





Table of Content and Figure @ https://straitsresearch.com/report/route-optimization-software-market/toc





Market News

In November 2018 , FarEye announced the acquisition of Dipper Technologies, a freight logistics marketplace, to strengthen the companys position as a leader of last-mile delivery and provide enhanced clarity for delivery accuracy with Dippers analytics.

In June 2019 , FarEye launched an AI-based real-time dynamic routing feature to empower on-time and cost-effective deliveries.

In August 2019, Zomato partnered with FarEye to help restaurants stay compliant with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of Indias (FSSAI) guidelines.





News Media

Last Mile Logistics - A Modern E-Commerce and Omni Channel Supply Chain

Route Optimization Software to Grow at a Impressive Healthy CAGR During Forecast Period







Have a Look at the Related Research Report

Fourth Party Logistics Market : Information by Type (Synergy Plus Operating Model, Industry Innovator Model, Solution Integrator Model), End-User (Retail), and Region  Forecast till 2027

Transportation Management Systems Market : Information by Deployment (On-Premise, Cloud), Mode of Transportation (Roadways, Railways, Waterways), and Region  Forecast till 2030

Digital Map Market : Information by Solution (Tracking and Telematics, Catchment Analysis), Vertical (Energy and Utilities, Logistics, Automotive), and Region  Forecast till 2026

Intelligent Transportation Systems Market : Information by Offering (Hardware, Software), System (Advanced Traffic Management Systems (ATMs)), and Region  Forecast till 2030





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Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

The FBI raid on former U.S. President Donald J. Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida triggered shockwaves across Russia, with outraged Kremlin propagandists rushing to defend their favorite American president and going so far as to predict that the raid will eventually spark a civil war in the United States.

When Trump lost the last presidential election to Joe Biden, experts and pundits in Moscow worried out loud that his prosecution for a bevy of potential offenses is imminent. They even contemplated offering their beloved Trumpushka asylum in Russia. As time went by, Putins mouthpieces became convinced that Trump was in the clear, and their fears subsided.

On Mondays broadcast of The Evening With Vladimir Solovyov, the host and his panelists praised the participants of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) and expressed their admiration for Trump and his allies. The same day, appearing on state TV program 60 Minutes, military expert Igor Korotchenko openly called for Russia to support Trumps candidacy in the 2024 elections.

News of the raid landed in Moscow with a thud, as angry propagandists embellished the search with made-up details, claiming that one hundred FBI agents and hordes of police dogs rummaged through Mar-a-Lago. On Tuesdays broadcast of 60 Minutes, Korotchenko angrily condemned the raid: There is a straight-up witch hunt happening in America. Trump, as the most popular politician in the United Stateswho has every chance of prevailing in the upcoming presidential electionwas chosen as such a witch, he raged. They wont just be vilifying him, they will be strangling him. These raids, involving dozens of FBI officers and police dogsthis is worse than McCarthyism, my friends! This is a symbol of inordinate despotism.

Russian Media Wants Moscow to Grant Asylum to Trump

In the days preceding the raid, the host of 60 Minutes, Evgeny Popov, who is also a deputy of Russias State Duma, repeatedly referred to Trump as Russias friend, protege, and a favored candidate, but cautiously added that Moscow is yet to decide on who to support in the upcoming U.S. elections. On Tuesday, Popov said: As soon as Donald Trump complained that Biden was the worst president in the history of the United States, which is fast becoming a third world country, there was a knock on Donalds door: Knock-knock, this is the FBI! More than one hundred agents stormed in and searched Trumps Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago. Popov joked that the agents were said to have found a couple of matryoshka, Putins portrait, a pioneer scarf, two icons, a parachute, and a chained bear with balalaika.

Story continues

Without a hint of irony, the state TV host described the search of the former presidents home as a symptom of political persecution of dissidents in the United States. Dozens of agents ransacked every office, went through every box, and took every document that was of interest to them. It is thought that the FBI was interested in the Top Secret documents supposedly taken by the ex-president from the White House... Biden, with his dictatorial tendencies, repressions, and persecution of dissidents, is turning America into Ukraine. He already did that, since the opposition is being persecuted by authorities, Popov said. He fantasized that as the result of the raid, Florida would split from the United States and its new constitution would feature Trumps assertion that there are only two genders: male and female.

Decorated Kremlin propagandist Vladimir Solovyov started Tuesdays broadcast of his radio program, Full Contact With Vladimir Solovyov, by bringing up the raid of Trumps Florida digs. He brought on state TV correspondent Valentin Bogdanov, reporting from New York City. You couldnt say we didnt anticipate this turn of events. Machinery, meant to squeeze Trump out of political life, has been activated... They want to deprive him of an opportunity to participate in the upcoming presidential election... All of this is designed to create a nasty aura, to make Trump more toxic.

Summing up the potential penalties for the suspected removal of top secret government documents, Bogdanov said they werent all that bad and were limited to a three-year prison term or a fine. He added: The scariest consequence is that a person convicted for such a crime cant be a candidate in the presidential election. Bingo! Thats what his opponents want: to deprive him of the opportunity to take part in this race.

Assuming that Trump would be knocked out of the upcoming presidential election, Bogdanov speculated that Florida governor Ron DeSantiswhom he described as Number Two in the GOPcould easily defeat Joe Biden.

Solovyov asked: Could this be the beginning of a civil war? He ominously opined: This is totally unprecedented, I dont remember anything like this in American history. If Trump calls on his supporters to come outand half the states are led by Trumps alliestherell be hell to pay.

Bogdanov replied: The civil war is already underway in the United States. For now, this is a cold civil war, but it keeps heating up.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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(Updates expected arrival date of Golar Ice, updates to show Arctic Discoverer has arrived) Aug 9 (Reuters) - The following liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers are expected to arrive in Britain, Belgium and the Netherlands in the coming weeks. Estimated arrival dates, often revised by port authorities and AIS Live ship-tracking data on Refinitiv Eikon, are updated below. Some tankers heading for Belgium and Britain may be loading at the terminal. Those expected to load are indicated with an (L). Those likely to perform ship-to-ship transfers are indicated with (STS). Tankers that have docked are indicated with (A). For the Reuters LNG guide, click here: LNG TANKER CAPACITY in EXPECTED ARRIVAL FROM PORT cubic metres BRITAIN Umm Slal 261,000 Aug. 10 Qatar South Hook Al Mafyar 261,000 Aug. 14 Qatar South Hook Pearl LNG 156,000 Aug. 15 Peru Milford Haven Al Rekayyat 212,000 Aug. 17 Qatar South Hook Al Ghashamiya 213,000 Aug. 20 Qatar Milford Haven BELGIUM Murwab 206,000 Aug. 8 (A) Qatar Zeebrugge Al Utouriya 212,000 Aug. 12 Qatar Zeebrugge Mozah 262,000 Aug. 16 Qatar Zeebrugge Al Karaana 206,000 Aug. 19 Qatar Zeebrugge Hoegh Gannet 170,000 Aug. 21 N/A Zeebrugge Tembek 212,000 Aug. 21 Qatar Zeebrugge NETHERLANDS Cubal 160,000 Aug. 09 Angola Gate Arctic Discoverer 139,000 Aug. 09 (A) Norway Gate Golar Ice 160,000 Aug. 10 India Gate Gaslog Wales 176,000 Aug. 10 Egypt Gate LNG Rosenrot 177,000 Aug. 13 United States Gate Soyo 158,000 Aug. 14 Angola Gate Maria Energy 174,000 Aug. 20 United States Gate BW Magnolia 170,000 Aug. 24 United States Gate Sonangol Etosha 158,000 Aug. 31 Angola Gate Sources: Ports, AIS Live ship tracking, Refinitiv Eikon data. (^) Partial unload (*) Arrival date calculated using www.searates.com at an average speed of 13.5 knots (Reporting By Susanna Twidale)
The Spotsylvania School Board on Monday approved revisions to the Student Code of Conduct and revisions to the policy on restraint and seclusion, but postponed decisions on other matters of public and school division interest.

The approved revisions to the policy on restraint and seclusion bring the policy into compliance with state law and the state Board of Education, according to Assistant Director of Student Services Paulette Heron.

The policy now prohibits the use of mechanical restraint; restraint while a student is lying down in a face-down or face-up position; the use of physical restraint as punishment or to prevent property damage; and the use of seclusion at any time.

It specifies that restraint can only be used when other interventions are ineffective and to prevent serious physical injury to the student or others present.

Adam Blosser, the parent of a student who was improperly restrained at a county elementary school last year, has advocated since early this year for the policy to be updated.

In his public comments at Mondays School Board meeting, Blosser said he is thankful for the revisions but said the board has much more work to do to ensure students and staff are properly supported, class sizes and staff work loads are manageable and other policies are clear and consistent.

As we begin the school year, our school division is in crisis, he said. Teachers, parents and even students are concerned. We do not yet have a new superintendent. We do not even have a deputy superintendent. Our director of HR is gone, and our director of student support services is leaving. Our kids deserve better. Right now, our school division is like a ship without a rudder.

There were no other action items on the agenda for Mondays meeting. The agenda did include a discussion about creating a student advisory committee to the School Boarda proposal that a group of students put forward early this year and have been advocating for at almost every meeting.

The board in April approved tasking members Lorita Daniels and Rabih Abuismail with working with staff to write a policy permitting student representation to the board.

Daniels presented a proposal for a School Board Student Council in May, but no vote was taken. On Monday, Daniels and Dawn Shelley said they hoped the board would take action to create the School Board Student Council, but the majority instead voted to ask that information about the existing Superintendents Student Advisory Committeeor STANDbe brought back next month.

Abuismail said STAND would be focused on operations and not the politics and that he thinks it would be the proper avenue to allow student voices to be heard.

Shelley said the students goal is to be able to bring their ideas and concerns directly to the School Board, not via the superintendent. She suggested that two board members could sit on the advisory committee, but the board majority was not in favor of this.

Nick Bartram, a rising senior who has been advocating for a school board advisory board, said Tuesday that he cant speak for all the students, but is skeptical of how well the superintendents Student Advisory Committee would function and whether or not the information would be passed along to the board.

However, if that is the only solution that the board would support, I would recommend a system in which each grade level [sixth12th grade] at each school is able to have a principal-appointed representative to this committee, he said.

Also on Monday, the board voted against initiating a review of School Board policies that may be out of date.

We get [policy] updates [from the Virginia School Board Association] because of new laws, yet weve not seen a single updated policy this year except for the two well be looking at today, Shelley pointed out during her board member comments.

School Board Clerk Dennis Martin said he has received proposed policy updates from VSBA and that he is prepared to move forward with the deploying of those policies for staff to review and bring to the board, but that former interim superintendent Carol Flenard asked him to hold off until further instructions from the board.

According to its website, the VSBA sent out model policy updates in February and May of this year. The policies that were updated in February based on changes made to Virginia Code were those governing closed meetings, programs for students with disabilities and student athlete sudden cardiac arrest.

Shelley motioned to allow Martin to start the policy review process. The boards attorney, Brad King, said there are likely some policies that are now out of compliance with new laws.

There are some laws that require you to have a policy in place, he said. When the General Assembly passes a law, the law is effective July 1. There are some policies that are probably not in compliance at this moment because they should have been effective July 1.

However, board members April Gillespie and Lisa Phelps said they werent prepared to look at policy revisions without input from the yet-to-be named new superintendent and the yet-to-be-formed Policy Review Committee.

Phelps said she proposed the policy review committee in February as a way to broaden the horizon and bring in more stakeholders, but that it has been on hold until the division has a permanent superintendent.

Phelps also said she is worried about an outside organization, such as the VSBA, giving their opinion on what policies to update.

Shelleys motion to initiate the policy review process failed by a 33 vote, with member Nicole Cole absent.

Also on Monday, a parent announced that she has initiated challenges of 13 more books that are in school libraries.

According to division spokeswoman Rene Daniels, the nine books being challenged are More Happy Than Not by Adam Silvera; Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston; Red Hood by Elana K. Arnold; Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen; 19 Minutes by Jodi Picoult; The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison; Jesus Land: A Memoir by Julia Scheeres; The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky; Neanderthal Opens the Door to the Universe by Preston Norton; "The Opposite of Innocent" by Sonya Sones; "Anatomy of a Single Girl" and "Anatomy of a Boyfriend" by Daria Snadowsky; and "Boy Toy" by Barry Lyga.

This story has been updated to include the titles of four more challenged books.
PRFESS RELEASE

9.08.2022

CTUs support the decision of the Postal Employees to strike work on 10.08.2022

The CTUs take note of the decision taken jointly by various unions of the Postal Employees to go on strike on 10th August, 2022, against Central Governments move to corporatise and then to privatise Postal Service.

Various sections of government departments/establishments are being forced to go on strike because the Governments adamant stand on privatizing everything that they put into National Monetisation Pipeline, through multi pronged routes viz., aggressive pursuit of corporatisation, outsourcing of various services of postal department to outside agencies, casualisation and temporarisation of substantial section of workforce with precarious service conditions and non-filling of sanctioned regular vacancies etc.

It started with the sale of Air India, followed by the LIC IPO, Railway stations, Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2022 and now, the Postal Department is up for grabs!

It is a known fact that eversince private courier services were allowed, the cost of posting has not only shot up, but the service is not available for rural areas, just like private versus public sector banks, private versus public road transport, where the private entities do not go to rural areas, on the same plea that there, the business is not profitable. BSNL is a prime example where a good PSU was deliberately killed by this Government to favour private mobile service providers. The Government, through the Railways, is putting pressure on the Postal Department to shift their cartage to road transport  where private sharks are waiting !

CTUs stand with the Postal Employees in their opposition to privatise the postal service. CTUs also support their demands for filling up large number of vacancies and improving other service conditions.

The Joint Platform of CTUs and Federations/Associations calls upon the mass of common people to rise to the occasion and extend active support to the united struggles of the working people in various sectors, including the Postal Sector to resist and decisively defeat the anti-people, anti-national destructive policy regime of the BJP Government.

Privatisation through multi pronged routes viz., aggressive pursuit of corporatisation, outsourcing of various services of postal department to outside agencies, casualisation and temporarisation of substantial section of workforce with precarious service conditions and non-filling of sanctioned regular vacancies etc.

INTUC AITUC HMS CITU AIUTUC TUCC SEWA AICCTU LPF UTUC And Sectoral Federations/Associations
The harmful algae blooms are growing at Lake Anna.

The most recent test samples, taken Aug. 2, detected unsafe levels of harmful algae at eight locations in the North Anna, Pamunkey branches and at Lake Anna State Park beach, according to a news release by the Virginia Department of Health.

The health department has now issued no-swim advisories for portions of the Pamunkey Branch, North Anna Branch, Lake Anna State Park beach and the main branch of Lake Anna from the Splits to the confluence of Pigeon Run above Route 208 in Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania counties.

Some harmful algae blooms are caused by a cyanobacteria that can cause skin rashes, stomach illness, vomiting and diarrhea.

People are advised to stay out of water that smells bad, looks discolored or has foam, scum or algal mats on the surface. The water isnt safe for pets, either. Water with red, green or white streaks should be avoided. Boating in algae-infested waters is safe, but experts advise against any activity that risks ingesting water, such as swimming.

Authorities issued the summers first harmful algae bloom advisories in July for the northern side of Lake Anna.

This is the fifth summer the blooms have spread in Lake Anna and resulted in no-swim advisories for parts of the popular 13,000-acre, man-made lake, which cools the Dominion Virginia Energy North Anna nuclear power plant and is surrounded by hundreds of homes.

The Lake Anna Civic Association is working to address the harmful algae with its Cyanobacteria Mitigation Program, which will use BlueGreen Water Technologies treatment to target harmful algae without harming other life forms or leaving any chemical trace in the water.
Farm and Ranch Welding (WELD 1991/22F & CRN #15845) meets Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 6 -Oct. 6, from 4-7 p.m., in the Donald E. Nielsen Career and Technical Education Center, Room 107, 200 W. Washington St., in West Point.

This course covers basic welding skills for farm, ranch and some processes used in industry. Students will learn how to safely and effectively set up and weld with multiple processes including: (OAC) oxyacetylene cutting, (SMAW) stick, (GMAW) short circuit and spray mig and (FCAW-G) dual shield mig. Supplies needed are a helmet, welding cap, clear safety glasses, locking pliers, diagonal cutting pliers, welding coat, stainless steel wire brush. Students are requested to wear jeans and boots to class.
SCOTTSBLUFF  A family dispute preceded the shooting death of a 57-year-old man in Morrill County on Monday, the Nebraska State Patrol said in a news release.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., troopers were called to a home in Broadwater where Rodney Bennett, 57, was found dead. The Morrill County Sheriffs Office had arrested Joseph Bennett, 29, before troopers arrived, the state patrol said.

An obituary for Rodney Bennett's former wife indicates that Joseph Bennett was the couple's son.

An autopsy is planned as part of the investigation.

Broadwater, a community of 89 people, is located along U.S. 26 about halfway between Ogallala and Scottsbluff in the Nebraska Panhandle.

This is a developing story. Stay with JournalStar.com for updates.
Six decades ago, the Strategic Air Command realized it needed a plane that could survive Armageddon.

So SAC, headquartered at Offutt Air Force Base, launched a program called the National Emergency Airborne Command Post, or Night Watch in February 1962. Three four-engine KC-135A jets were modified with 12 state-of-the-art communications systems to serve as airborne command posts for the president and other top leaders in the event of nuclear war.

Since then, the aircraft have gotten bigger and the comms systems more sophisticated and numerous.

But the planes and their crews still stand by 24/7, at Offutt and other sites, hoping doomsday never arrives but ready to carry on if it does.

This week, the 595th Command and Control Group  the Offutt-based unit that operates the fleet of four E-4B Nightwatch (the current spelling) jets  is celebrating its 60 years of service with a banquet Saturday at Omahas CHI Health Center.

Were honoring all the men and women who have served on it, and the community that has supported it, over six decades, said Col. Brian Golden, the 595th Groups commander.

Former Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, who also represented Nebraska in the U.S. Senate, will be the keynote speaker. Adm. Charles Richard, who heads U.S. Strategic Command, and Gen. Anthony Cotton, head of Air Force Global Strike Command, are among the expected 760 guests.

The unit also has been giving tours of its new $16 million E-4B flight simulator, which opened in May at an industrial park in La Vista. It is the first time that Nightwatch crews have had a dedicated simulator. Previously, the crews had been forced to travel to Denver or Miami for simulator training.

More practice time also took place aboard the actual aircraft, which at $147,000 an hour is the Air Forces most expensive jet to fly. Simulator time, by comparison, costs only a few hundred dollars an hour.

We are fully utilizing the simulator, Golden said. Its been amazing.

In the late 1960s, the original KC-135 jets gave way to EC-135J aircraft, similar to the ones used for SACs Cold War command-and-control Looking Glass. They were replaced by E-4As  which are modified version of the commercial Boeing 747-200  in the late 1970s, and eventually upgraded to E-4Bs.

The mission crews increased from 39 to 112 as the number of the communications systems grew, from 12 on the first jets to 42 today.

But they are now showing their age. Only a few commercial 747-200s are still flying, all as cargo jets. The Air Force, which flies two models called VC-25s as Air Force One presidential jets in addition to the four E-4Bs, now operates the largest fleet of that type.

Golden said spare parts are getting harder and more expensive to find.

The 595th Command and Control Group has endured a series of upheavals since the new unit was stood up in 2016 to take over the Nightwatch mission from the 55th Wing.

The following year, and EF-1 tornado struck the Offutt flight line, causing $8.3 million in damage to two of the E-4Bs. The already overextended fleet was left short for two months.

Then, in 2019, the 595ths hangar was damaged and its offices and alert facility wrecked during the massive flooding that left one-third of Offutt Air Force Base submerged for several weeks.

Finally, a complete reconstruction of Offutts runway  unrelated to the flood  forced the unit to temporarily move its flight operations to the Lincoln Airport in March 2021.

Now, as the Nightwatch marks its 60th birthday, the unit and its mission are on the verge of major changes.

The 595ths leadership already has moved into the Riggs Building, the former home of SAC and StratCom and now headquarters for the 55th Wing. Flight operations are expected to resume at Offutt on Oct. 1, with the completion of the runway rebuild. And within a few years, the 595th will have a brand-new alert facility as part of Offutts post-flood reconstruction.

By the end of the decade, Golden said, the 595th will begin fielding a new and larger fleet of planes called E-4Cs.

The Air Force has specified that the new aircraft must be a commercial model, and it must have four engines.

Those limits mean it will almost certainly be a Boeing 747-800, a newer version of the 747-200 that has been in production since 2008. It is the only large four-engine airliner currently in production; all others are twin-engine jets.

Our mission set cant take any risks, Golden said. If either of those engines were to fail, we would have to abandon the mission.

Golden also said the fleet needs to expand to 8-10 aircraft in order to accommodate additional jobs such as serving as a global command and control jet for the secretary of defense, as well as several classified missions.

When factoring in training needs and maintenance, We have no margin at all, he said. This fleet was never (given) enough aircraft. ... Were always needed more.

Expanding the fleet won't come cheap. With their up-to-date electronic kit, each aircraft is expected to cost $1.2 billion, Golden said.
The killing of four top commanders of the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan has struck a major blow to the militant group and cast doubts over a cease-fire and ongoing peace talks between the TTP and the Pakistani government.

In the wake of the killings, which occurred on August 7, the TTP leadership has held frantic discussions about how to deal with the loss of some of its top guns, observers say.

While no group has claimed responsibility for the separate deadly blasts that killed the commanders, experts suggest they could be result of an internal rift over the prospect of a lasting truce with Islamabad, which the TTP, also known as the Pakistani Taliban, has fought to overthrow since 2007.

At stake is the future of an indefinite truce between the militants and Islamabad, as well as talks aimed at ending the TTP's deadly insurgency.

Continuing the cease-fire that has been in place for about two months could create bad blood among the TTP's leadership, experts say. But scrapping the truce and peace talks could lead to pressure from the Haqqani network, a powerful Afghan Taliban faction that hosts the TTP in Afghanistan and is believed to have close ties to the Pakistani intelligence services, they say.

The negotiations have been mediated by the Afghan Taliban, which has close ideological and organizational ties with the TTP. The Afghan militant group is also a longtime ally of Islamabad.

The TTP leadership has used Afghanistan as a sanctuary and staging ground for attacks against Islamabad since a major military offensive in 2014 drove the militants across the border.

Murky Details Surround Killings

The details of the killings remain murky.

While the TTP has confirmed the deaths of Abdul Wali (alias Omar Khalid Khorasani), Mufti Hassan Swati, and Hafiz Dawlat Khan Orakzai as they traveled in southeastern Afghanistan, it is unclear whether their vehicle was hit by a roadside bomb or a drone strike. All three were believed to oppose peace talks with Pakistan.

Some have suggested that the three were headed to a meeting with representatives of the Afghan Taliban in the Barmal district of Afghanistan's Paktika Province, which borders the restive Pakistani districts of North and South Waziristan.

"It has yet to be ascertained what really happened, but the area where the three top TTP leaders were reported killed was once the stronghold of the Haqqani network," said Afrasiab Khattak, an analyst and former Pakistani senator.

Another top TTP commander, intelligence chief Abdul Rashid (alias Uqabi Bajauri), was killed just hours earlier by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan's eastern Kunar Province.

The four killings come just days after Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri was assassinated in a U.S. drone strike on his safe house in a posh area of Kabul believed to be under the control of Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Afghan Taliban's interior minister and head of the Haqqani network.

Heavily Targeted Militants

Khorasani, who had a $3 million U.S. bounty on his head, was a founding member of the TTP and was considered to be its most important and ruthless commander. He formed his own militant group, Jamat ul-Ahrar (JuA), in 2013. But he rejoined the TTP after current leader Noor Wali Mehsud took over in 2018.

Khorasani was a harsh critic of the government in Pakistan, and had consistently opposed negotiations between the TTP and Islamabad.

In 2014, Khorasani and the JuA were responsible for the massacre of 23 captured Pakistani soldiers as the TTP held peace talks with Pakistani authorities. Khorasani's JuA also claimed responsibility for a bomb blast in 2016 in the eastern Pakistani city of Lahore that killed nearly 70 people, mostly from the Christian minority.

Mahmood Shah, a retired Pakistani brigadier who is now a defense and security analyst, says Khorasani's death was a crushing blow for the TTP. While other TTP commanders focused on the militant group's activities in North and South Waziristan, Khorasani was the face of the group in the neighboring districts of Khyber, Bajaur, and Mohmand. These districts were among the seven that compromised Pakistan's former tribal areas.

The two other TTP commanders killed alongside Khorasani in Afghanistan, Hassan and Dawlat, were also averse to the peace talks. The two had declared allegiance to Islamic State (IS) extremist group chief Abu Bakar al-Baghdadi in 2015. But they returned to the TTP after Khorasani merged the JuA into the fold of the TTP.

Big Questions Abound

A Peshawar-based researcher, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, says the killing of the TTP commanders is more indicative of an internal rift within the TTP than any outside factors.

There were suspicions among the TTP's leadership, the researcher says, about Hassan and Dawlat's allegiance due to their past links with IS. And in some circles, Hassan had been accused of having ties to the Western-backed Afghan government that was ousted by the Afghan Taliban in August 2021, he adds.

In one big change, a Pakistani military officer who was seen as the architect of the peace process has been transferred from the northwestern city of Peshawar in the wake of the killings.

Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed, a former intelligence chief, was removed from his post as corps commander in Peshawar on August 8. Hameed had recently met the TTP chief in Kabul during which they agreed on the terms of a possible permanent truce. His transfer has raised questions within the TTP about the future of the talks, sources within the militant group say.

But a Peshawar-based journalist and expert on the TTP, Mushtaq Yousufzai, says the ongoing peace negotiations were rocky but making progress. "This was a difficult process. But unlike the past, this time, through concerted efforts, the two sides achieved enough headway," Yousufzai said. "The result was the indefinite cease-fire by the TTP."

The killings of the top commanders this week, he said, will have a considerable impact on the peace process "and much will depend on the leadership from the two sides as to how to find a way out."

Other experts agree on the significance of the deaths of the commanders, but say the losses will not necessarily mean the end of peace talks with Pakistan.

Muhammad Amir Rana, an Islamabad-based researcher and security analyst, says that the two sides have established some trust in the course of their negotiations. While that trust may have taken a hit, Rana says, he doesn't believe the killing of the top leaders "would totally scrap the peace process."

"The TTP may not be interested in scrapping it because it is the Pakistani state that is making compromises," he said, noting that the TTP still has leverage through the threat of restarting its militant campaign against the Pakistani government.

"Even if there is war again, the TTP will get a chance to push their narrative. So, both peace and fighting benefits them."
A Pakistani television station close to former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been taken off the air in much of the country after a segment was aired about the armed forces that was deemed a threat to national security.

ARY News representative Ahmad Yousaf, vice president of the network, said the decision was "illegal and ridiculous," and would be challenged in court.

ARY, one of Pakistan's largest private TV channels, has long been a supporter of Khan, who has been critical of the country's powerful military since being ousted in a no-confidence vote in April.

A notice seen by the media from the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority to ARY said "hateful, seditious, and malicious content on your channel raises serious concerns about your mala fide intent."

The channel on August 8 had broadcast an allegation by an adviser to Khan that the ruling party was behind a smear campaign against the army.

The report also suggested that army officers should not follow "illegal and unconstitutional orders" from their higher-ups.

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists warned of nationwide protests if full transmission was not restored.

Based on reporting by AFP and dpa
In case you missed it  summer's most popular meteor shower is set to peak tonight above Colorado, with the celestial event remaining active through September 1.
Colorados state court administrator  the highest civilian position in the Judicial Department  last year falsely claimed judicial discipline officials failed to reveal they had admonished a district court judge of misbehavior before the judge was admitted to a senior judge program, the states discipline commission said in a letter filed Monday with legislators.

In fact, the commission had admonished the judge for rubbing his hairy chest on a female employees back years earlier, the commission said, and the department admitted him to the program anyway.

State Court Administrator Steven Vasconcellos told the Commission on Judicial Discipline in a letter June 11, 2021 that the retiring judge was admitted into the departments senior judge program and stayed for two years until he was fired for the misconduct after a memo outlining his actions became public in early 2021.

But Vasconcellos was inaccurate with the assertion the judicial department was not told of the misbehavior before the judge was given the senior judge position, the commission says in its letter to legislators. The body that investigates and punishes judicial misconduct told the department about the sanction in August 2018 when the department inquired if there were any sanctions, the letter says.

Whats more, Vasconcellos himself was one of four people to sign off on the judges application for the senior judge program while serving as the departments director of court services after the commission shared the information, according to an independent investigation into the circumstances of the misconduct allegation by Investigations Law Group.

Vasconcellos did not immediately respond to a request from The Gazette for comment.

The revelation is the first that Vasconcellos knew of the judges prior discipline, did not follow up with any questions about it and approved his admission to the senior judge program, but later represented that the department did not know of it.

The department last month denied several requests by The Gazette for the June 11, 2021 letter under its open records rules, saying it was protected from disclosure.

Vasconcellos was director of court services in 2018, department letterhead at that time shows. He was appointed as state court administrator in October 2019 three months after his predecessor, Christopher Ryan, resigned amid newspaper stories about a multi-million-dollar contract awarded to a former employee who was being fired.

About 16 months later, Ryan alleged the contract was actually a quid-pro-quo deal to ensure the employee, the State Court Administrator's Office former Chief of Staff Mindy Masias, would not file a tell-all sex-discrimination lawsuit alleging the misconduct by judges and other officials was disciplined more leniently than her. Ryan said the deal was approved by then-Chief Justice Nathan Ben Coats.

The Supreme Court denied the assertion at the time and a subsequent investigation by a firm the department hired came to the same conclusion, that there was no contract-for-silence scheme and that Ryan helped engineer the deal with the help of Masias and then-Human Resources Director Eric Brown.

In its letter Monday to the legislative committee exploring changes to the judicial discipline process, the commissions executive director, Christopher Gregory, outlined how Vasconcellos wrongly told the commission it had not done its job.

From records only recently provided from the Commission, the Department learned that the Commission privately admonished the judge, which had not previously been disclosed despite the Departments due diligence before awarding the judge a senior judge contract, the commission quotes Vasconcellos as having written the commission on June 11, 2021. Chief Justice (Brian) Boatright thereafter notified the judge of the cancellation of the contract after learning of the private admonition.

The Adams County district judge was retiring and, like other retiring judges, applied for the program that allows them to continue working on the bench from time to time. Its normal for the department to request a discipline history from the commission before approving a judges application. Senior judges are assigned duties by the state court administrators office.

The judge, who has not been publicly identified, was admonished in May 2008 for serious misconduct including displaying naked skin, the physical touching/rubbing of his chest on a womans back, and inappropriate commentary, according to the ILG report issued last month. It included a solicitation to come sit on my lap.

ILG concluded that insufficient action occurred by the discipline commission, calling the admonishment the mildest sanction possible.

Additionally, ILG found that no one in the Judicial Department  including Vasconcellos, then the director of court services  followed up on this notification from Commission on Judicial Discipline when it told the department of the admonishment.

ILG did not name Vasconcellos as one of the documents signers, but rather only the department titles of the four, which included Ryan as state court administrator, Chief Justice Coats, and the administrator of the departments senior judge program. Coats retired in December 2020.

A two-page memo from January 2019 thats at the center of the judiciary scandal noted how Judge exposed and rubbed his hairy chest on a female employees back; no action taken against judge; judge is currently being considered for the senior judge program.

ILG noted that action was taken against the judge for the misconduct. However, much of the discipline commissions work is done in secret and its punishments typically remain confidential.
FUTA demands an immediate halt to repression

Over the last few weeks the Federation of University Teachers Associations (FUTA) has issued a number of statements and held press conferences to vehemently oppose the wave of repression unleashed by the illegitimate Wickramasinghe-Pohottowa government. yesterday, Mangala Maddumage, an activist of the Inter University Students Federation (IUSF) was abducted in broad daylight and it was only several hours later that he was located at a police station. This abduction came on the heels of the arbitrary arrest of veteran trade unionist Joseph Stalin along with many other youths from the aragalaya, whose only crime appears to have been part of a historic peoples struggle for citizens rights.

This government, which is increasingly beginning to resemble a lumbering and deformed beast  formed of an unholy alliance between a so-called liberal leader and a parliamentary majority from a party that plunged Sri Lanka in to a historic crisis  has no legitimacy. The aragalaya, which was a national movement and lasted many months and spread throughout Sri Lankas body politic, delegitimized the mandate received by former President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and the SLPP. It is because he lost the peoples mandate that Gotabhaya Rajapaksa had to resign from his position, with a full two and a half years of his term remaining and flee the country  this was a historic first in Sri Lankas political history. FUTA, therefore, holds the position that this illegitimate government has no authority to scrutinize, punish or take any action to delegitimize the historic uprising of the people. We ask Mr. Wickremasinghe, who prides himself on his knowledge of history, to show us one instance where a government rejected by the people in the aftermath of a popular uprising then proceeds to prosecute the very people that rejected it?

Mr. Wickremasinghe, and the so-called tragedy of a government he has cobbled together with backroom dealing, has no moral authority or legitimacy to govern. It also appears blind to the realities of this country which cannot even source sufficient foreign exchange to pay for a single fuel shipment but is making grand plans about long term economic recovery. Mr. Wickremasinghe seems to have forgotten that he has no popular mandate, no legitimacy and indeed even any political power in parliament. He is captive to the whims and fancies of a corrupt and rejected political cabal but is behaving as if he is a historic savior of the nation, majestically stepping into save the country from oblivion.

As FUTA we demand an end to this tragicomedy. The people of this country have faced enough deprivation  both of their economic as well as political rights. We demand an immediate halt to the repression and prosecution of aragayala activists. We call upon the government and all responsible groups in society  civil society organizations, professional groups, trade unions and others  to immediately recognize the aragalaya for what it was  the most inspiring and uplifting peoples movement that this country has witnessed in its postcolonial history. Based on this understanding, we call upon the government to stop this witch hunt and attend to the actual priorities of the people. FUTA reiterates its commitment to the democratic ideals of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and affirms it continued and unreserved support to the spirit and intent of the aragalya. We have and will always stand for the democratic rights of the people.

Rohan Laksiri

General Secretary

Federation of University Teachers Associations (FUTA).
Andrew Peery was no stranger to service. He served his country as a soldier and he served his community as a law enforcement officer.

During his Army service, Peery served as an airborne infantryman. From 2001 to 2004, Peery was a member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade and stationed in Italy. On Sunday, Peery was shot and killed while responding to a shooting in Security-Widefield.

"I met him when he was accepted to the scout/sniper platoon where we worked alongside each other," said Matthew Baden, a soldier who served with Peery nearly 20 years ago. "We participated together in the airborne assault into Iraq on 26 March, 2003."

On that day Peery and Baden would jump into northern Iraq as part of Operation Northern Delay. They were two of nearly 1,000 paratroopers tasked with securing an airfield and opening a northern front of the 2003 invasion.

The airfield was secured and C-17 cargo planes began to land, off-loading logistical supplies and heavy vehicles like tanks.

"He was an exemplary soldier who always strived to serve his country with honor, and continued to serve his community in Colorado Springs," Baden said of Peery, who is survived by his wife and two children.

Baden and Peery would earn the combat jump wings with a so-called "mustard stain" as a result of the combat jump. The "mustard stain" is a Bronze Star positioned on a paratrooper's wings, signifying their combat service.

After Iraq, Peery continued to serve in the Army. Baden said he went on other deployments and served with the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson. A Fort Carson media representative contacted for information on Peery's service here did not immediately respond for comment.

After his military service, Peery joined law enforcement. In March 2014, he joined the Bakersfield Police Department in California and was sworn in that August.

"He was a hero in every definition of the word," said Sgt. Robert Pair, a Bakersfield Police Department spokesman. "His loss is absolutely felt by our community."

Peery was a patrol officer in Bakersfield, and continued a history of service within his family. His father was a Los Angeles police officer and Kern County District Attorney's Office investigator.

Pair said other family members continue to serve with law enforcement, but declined to elaborate further, citing concern for their privacy.

In 2016, Peery resigned his position with the Bakersfield Police Department and joined the El Paso County Sheriff's Office.

"He was the type of officer you do not want to leave your organization," Pair said. "He had a heart for service ... and was extremely well liked by his peers and supervisors."

In the shooting that resulted in Peery's death, two other people were killed, including the shooter.

Donations can be made to Peery's family through Chase Bank under the Hugh Martin Fallen Officers fund. This is the only officially sanctioned account or fundraiser, according to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office.
The proposed ballot measure seeking to ban abortion in Colorado will not appear on the November ballot, the Colorado Secretary of State's Office told Colorado Politics.

According to the Elections Division, backers of Initiative No. 56 informed the office Monday they would not be submitting petition signatures ahead of the 5 p.m. deadline.

The ballot measure sought to define "murder of a child" and ban abortion, save in a few narrow cases. Both anti-abortion advocates and abortion rights activists noted the measure offered no legal carveout for women who get an abortion.

The ballot measure sought to prohibit the intentional murder of a child "prior to, during or after birth"  and up to age 18. It also established that such intentional murder, including by providers, would carry criminal penalties to be enforced by the attorney general and in collaboration with local law enforcement and district attorneys.

"Unfortunately, we fell short of the mark," proponent Angela Eicher told Colorado Politics. She wouldn't divulge how many signatures they collected, saying, "we got enough to show God is moving in this state" but not enough to get on the ballot.

She said they hope to try again in the future.

Christina Soliz, political director of the COLOR Action Fund, said the lack of signatures "is a sign that protecting abortion access and care is the right thing to do for our community."

"Time and time again, Coloradans have defeated anti-abortion and personhood ballot measures, such as the 'unlawful murder of an unborn,' because we know that those are not values that our people hold," she said. "This past session, we led with our partners at Cobalt and passed the Reproductive Health Equity Act, which was a historic moment for all of us. Coloradans support access to abortion. We know we would have defeated this ballot measure again if it came down to it."

Soliz was referring to Colorado policymakers' decision to enshrine abortion as a fundamental right under the Reproductive Health Equity Act, which Gov. Jared Polis signed into law in April. The new law is among the most permissive in the country. Passed in March following a record 23-hour debate, it affirmed in state law the right to choose an abortion or carry a pregnancy to term. Fertilized eggs, embryos and fetuses do not have independent rights under the law, and it prohibits state and local public entities from denying or restricting a person's right to use or refuse contraception, or to either continue a pregnancy or have an abortion.

The 2022 ballot measure is the seventh failed attempt to ban or limit abortions dating back to 2000. Its failure to make it to the ballot wasn't surprising, as those who oppose abortion split over the measure. Jeff Hunt, director of the Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University and one of the most prominent evangelical voices on the state's political scene, earlier told Colorado Politics he was doubtful the measure would make the ballot.

He said neither the Catholic Archdiocese of Denver nor Colorado Christian University has decided to support the measure, arguing the initiative, "as it is currently written, would put everybody involved in prison for murder, including the woman."

Hunt said the conversation within the anti-abortion movement in Colorado revolves around a ballot measure in 2024 that is similar to Proposition 115, which asked voters in 2020 to ban abortion after 22 weeks of gestation, except when it is required to save the life of the mother.

A ballot measure to affirm the right to abortion in the state Constitution is also being discussed for 2024.

Petition signatures for nine ballot measures were due by 5 p.m. Monday. Three were submitted, but the Secretary of State's Office determined one  Initiative No. 61, which sought to decriminalize possession of "entheogenic" plants, also known as "magic mushrooms"  fell below the threshold of registered voter signatures that it would need to make the ballot and was declared insufficient.

The measures with submitted signatures Monday now under review are:

 Initiative No. 121 would allow the sale of wine in grocery stores. So far, only beer and related spirits can be sold in grocery stores.

 Initiative No. 122 would allow for third-party delivery  think Uber or Lyft  of alcoholic beverages.

Proponents of initiative No. 63, which sought additional funding for K-12 public education, announced Monday afternoon they did not gather enough signatures for their petition.

"We are heartbroken that voters will not have the opportunity to make this historic investment in our teachers, student support professionals and students, despite their overwhelming support for Initiative 63 as demonstrated in polls and by the public enthusiasm every volunteer experienced when gathering signatures," Great Education Colorado, which backed No. 63, said in a statement. "We have learned the hard way that the enormous cost of gathering 125,000 valid signatures puts the ballot out of the reach of ordinary citizens  even with an extraordinarily popular measure with broad grassroots support like Initiative 63. Unfortunately, for all Coloradans and especially for our public school students and teachers, deep pockets appear to be a prerequisite for ballot access."

Two measures have already qualified for the November ballot:

 Initiative No. 31, which would lower the state income tax rate from 4.55% to 4.41%. Proponents include Jon Caldara of the Independence Institute and state Sen. Jerry Sonnenberg, R-Sterling. Both were successful in 2020 with a similar measure that lowered the income tax rate from 4.63% to 4.55%.

 Initiative No. 58, the other "magic mushroom" measure, would allow for people to consume "natural medicines"  defined as dimethyltryptamine, ibogaine, certain forms of mescaline, peyote, psilocybin or psilocyn  in licensed facilities.

Two measures are currently under signature review:

 Initiative No. 96, which would allow retail liquor stores to obtain additional liquor licenses; and,

 Initiative No. 108, which would dedicate a portion of state income tax revenue for affordable housing.

A measure to require local approval for expanded liquor licenses also failed to turn in signatures on Monday.

Ballot measures are required to submit 124,632 valid signatures. Usually, proponents will collect at least 175,000 or more to ensure they meet the requirements.
In this file photo, former U.S. Rep. Tom Tancredo, a Lakewood Republican, introduces then-U.S. Senate candidate Erik Aadland on Sept. 11, 2021, at a campaign event at a Lakewood park. Aadland switched to the congressional race in Colorado's 7th District months later and won the GOP primary in June 2022. Tancredo endorsed Aadland's congressional bid on Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022.
The Foundation for a Better Life promotes positive values to live by and pass along to others. Go to PassItOn.com.
All 135 judges who are seeking retention in Colorados November general election have met the standards for judicial performance, according to the findings of citizen-led commissions across the state.

On Tuesday, the Office of Judicial Performance Evaluation released the reports and recommendations from judicial performance commissions operating in each of Colorado's 22 judicial districts, plus one panel that evaluates state Supreme Court and Court of Appeals members. The commissions analyzed judges using such factors as their demeanor, managing the flow of cases on their dockets, and knowledge of the law  incorporating lawyers' and non-lawyers' ratings of judges into their recommendations.

Big money pours in for ballot measures on housing, liquor and magic mushrooms The committee Natural Medicine Colorado, which is behind Initiative #58, has so far raised $2.766 million, almost all of it from the New Approach PAC of Washington, D.C., a pro-marijuana group. Among its biggest funders is Sean Parker of California, a billionaire who founded Napstar and was briefly president of Facebook.

Of the 135 judges who sought to be retained by voters this year, the commissions concluded they all met the required standard of performance.

However, the results of Colorado's retention process do not provide the complete picture of judicial performance. A total of 164 judges were eligible for retention in 2022, but only 140 received evaluations and 135 chose to remain on the ballot. Judges may opt to resign or retire prior to their retention for multiple reasons, including the expectation of a negative performance evaluation.

The retention process is one of the means of holding Colorado's judiciary publicly accountable, in addition to the appellate review of judges' decisions and investigations into alleged misconduct by the state's judicial discipline commission. Once the governor appoints a judge, he or she will face a retention vote after approximately two years. If successful, the judge will serve for a term of four to 10 years, depending on the type of judicial appointment.

This election cycle marks the first time the appointees of Gov. Jared Polis will appear on the ballot, including five Polis-appointed members of the Court of Appeals. None of the state's seven Supreme Court justices is up for retention this year.

Although the vast majority of judges received unanimous favorable recommendations from the performance commissions, 14 judges received split votes to varying degrees. Eight women and six men had one or more commission members cast a vote against retention, with one judge registering a tie vote in her commission.

State Sen. Pete Lee indicted on felony charge of falsifying residence information An El Paso County fourth judicial district grand jury has indicted state Sen. Pete Lee, D-Colorado Springs, on a Class 5 felony charge of falsifying his residence address for electoral purposes.

District Court Judge Kimberly B. Schutt of Weld County received mixed reviews from her commission, with four members finding she met performance standards and four believing she did not. Schutt, who handles emotionally-charged divorce and parental rights cases, received higher-than-average marks from attorneys and non-attorneys who provided their feedback. She also exceeded the averages for her case management skills, knowledge of law, demeanor, fairness and communication.

Commission members' only specific area of concern about Schutt was the length of time she takes to issue rulings.

"The Commission takes seriously that Judge Schutts caseload has been reduced due to this issue and feels strongly that she should be handling an even share of cases with all due speed," the performance commission wrote in its narrative to voters. "Despite her high ratings and performance in almost all other areas, the deficiency in timely case management cannot be ignored and is something that demands Judge Schutts prompt attention if she is to be a successful District Court Judge."

Because a majority of commissioners must vote to label a judge as not meeting performance standards, the tie vote resulted in a favorable recommendation for Schutt. This is her first time standing for retention.

Six other judges garnered at least two negative votes from their commissions. The most narrowly divided evaluations involved Kiowa County Court Judge Gary W. Davis, Rio Blanco County Court Judge Joe Fennessy and La Plata County Court Judge Anne Kathryn Woods  all of whom received 6-3 or 5-2 votes deeming they met performance standards.

Davis, who has been a part-time county judge since 1992, scored well on his demeanor and for helping self-represented litigants navigate the legal process. However, the performance commission raised concerns with Davis' docket management and his inconsistent application of the law. Docket management was also an issue the commission previously warned about in Davis' 2018 evaluation.

Fennessy's commission decided he was respectful, prepared and committed to serving the public. His evaluation noted he came out of retirement to serve on the bench and will reach the mandatory retirement age within the next year. Nevertheless, some members believed his communication skills, legal knowledge and administration were deficient. Notably, the commission received feedback that prosecutors appeared to be "directing the docket," as Fennessy would otherwise become confused.

"A related concern articulated was Judge Fennessy often seems not to have mastery over the law applicable to various routine criminal-court proceedings," the commission warned. "Because of these concerns, both sides expressed reluctance to take cases to trial, indicating that they are so afraid of judicial error, they enter settlements in his court that they otherwise might not."

For Woods, who was appointed in late 2020, her commission applauded her efforts to improve her handling of cases during her two years on the bench. It still cautioned of a perception that Woods, a former public defender, was too lenient toward defendants.

"The public still may be partially anchored on the view that Judge Woods is a pro-defense judge, but the Commission noted a significant increase in cash bail and sentences above the minimum" since her preliminary 2021 evaluation, the commission wrote.

Finally, the judicial performance commission for Larimer County decided by 7-3 that County Court Judge Thomas L. Lynch met performance standards. Calling him respectful, patient and kind, the commission nonetheless warned about his docket management. It also noted concerns about Lynch's demeanor "outside the courtroom, which has been described as inflexible." Lynch's 2018 evaluation also took issue with delays to his docket.

Editor's note: This article has been updated to correct the vote count for the evaluations of three county court judges.
In his first public comments since alleging the Supreme Court three years ago approved a contract-for-silence with a former Judicial Department executive, Christopher Ryan was expected to stand firmly behind his assertions that wide-ranging efforts ensued to protect the actions of those who wear the robes.




Dragon TV: On August 8, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi paid a visit to Mongolia upon invitation. Could you share more information on the visit?

Wang Wenbin: State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi just wrapped up a successful visit to Mongolia. During the visit, he met respectively with Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsuh, Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene, and Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia Gombojav Zandanshatar, and held talks with Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh. The two sides held strategic communication on bilateral relations, practical cooperation and international and regional issues of mutual interest and reached extensive common understandings.

Both agreed that in the face of the complicated and fluid international and regional landscape, China and Mongolia share a closely-intertwined future. Both sides expressed readiness to seek greater synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and Mongolias Steppe Road Program, between the Global Development Initiative and Mongolias New Revival Policy, between Chinas two-stage development strategy and Mongolias long-term development vision, so as to foster three engines driving the development of bilateral relations. Both sides reiterated respect for each others independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and that they will continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning each others core interests. China supports Mongolia in upholding stability, focusing on development and exploring a development path suited to its national reality. China appreciates Mongolias reiteration of firm adherence to the one-China principle and opposition to interference in Chinas internal affairs on issues related to Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang and Hong Kong. Both sides agreed to strengthen border cooperation, open up ports and connect railways and highways wherever possible so as to keep the industrial and supply chains stable and unimpeded. The two sides signed the Memorandum of Understanding on the cross-border railway connection program at the Gants Mod port, which will play an important role in helping Mongolia to expand its opening-up and achieve strong growth. Both sides agreed to promote cooperation in such fields as economy and trade, investment, mining and energy, science and technology, agriculture and animal husbandry, forge major demonstration projects in areas including infrastructure and energy, and strive to achieve coordinated development and common prosperity between the two countries. The two sides agreed to promote the Erdeneburen hydropower plant project in a coordinated manner, and speed up solving the electricity supply problem for people in western Mongolia. The two sides will support the implementation of livelihood projects such as shanty-town renovation, sewage treatment plant and meat processing plant as soon as possible to better benefit the Mongolian people. The two sides will enhance cooperation in afforestation and counter-desertification. China commends Mongolias plan to plant one billion trees, and China has proposed to plant 70 billion trees in the next ten years. We are ready to have mutual support in efforts to make the world greener and preserve a green natural environment and blue skies. The two sides agreed to continue working together to end the pandemic and protect peoples lives and safety. The two sides agreed to increase direct flights between the two countries to facilitate personnel exchanges. China supports the early returning of Mongolian students to China to resume their study. The two sides also agreed to strengthen youth exchanges and sub-national cooperation to consolidate peoples support for the China-Mongolia friendship. The two sides agreed to step up coordination in international and regional affairs, uphold true multilateralism and open regionalism, advance implementation of the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative, safeguard the common interests of developing countries, jointly promote development and prosperity in Asia, and build a community with a shared future for mankind.

China and Mongolia are good neighbors with ties more precious than gold, and good brothers and good partners sharing weal and woe. China stands ready to build on the momentum of the visit to work together with the Mongolian side to implement the important common understandings reached by the two heads of state, advance mutually-beneficial and friendly cooperation and better realize shared development and prosperity.

Reuters: South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said he hopes to discuss with China about denuclearizing North Korea, stabilizing global supply chain and resuming cultural exports to China. What is Chinas position on these issues? What expectations does China have for his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi?

Wang Wenbin: This year marks the 30th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between China and the ROK, which provides an important opportunity for deepening and growing the bilateral relations. This visit will be the first visit by Foreign Minister Park and the countrys first high-level delegation to China since the new ROK government took office. China is ready to work with the ROK, take this opportunity to strengthen communication, focus on cooperation and sustain the momentum of sound and steady growth of bilateral ties.

The talks between the foreign ministers will soon start. We will release information timely. Please check back for updates.

Bloomberg: First of all, Taiwans Joseph Wu said that China has used the visit by Nancy Pelosi as an excuse to practice war invasions. Id like to ask the Foreign Ministrys comment on Joseph Wus remarks. And also, I would like to ask that the Chinese military announced more drills around Taiwan again today. My questions would be how long will these extended drills last for? And the second point of that would be are these drills a new normal?

Wang Wenbin: The countermeasures taken by China in response to Pelosis provocative visit to Taiwan are justified, reasonable and lawful. They are aimed at sending a warning to the provocateurs and punishing the Taiwan independence forces.

There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The Government of the Peoples Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the entire China. This is the real fact and status quo across the Taiwan Strait. The DPP authorities and the obdurate Taiwan independence elements have tried to mislead the public by misrepresenting events and facts, which again exposes their nature of seeking independence and separatism.

I want to stress that to achieve the full reunification of China is the shared will of all Chinese and an unstoppable historical trend. Be it the US card or anything else that the DDP authorities and the Taiwan independence forces seek to play, they cannot save the Taiwan independence forces from failure. Their provocations and lies are futile and will only accelerate their own demise.

Regarding the military drills you mentioned, I responded to similar questions yesterday. I would like to reiterate that China has conducted normal military drills in waters off its own territory, which are open, transparent and professional. Relevant authorities have issued notices in a timely manner. This move is in line with Chinas domestic law, the international law and established international practices. This is both a warning we send to the provocateurs and a legitimate step to uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity. As for your question on whether this will be a new normal, Id like to refer you to the competent authorities.

PTI: We see some policy statements coming up from some of the Foreign Ministry officials about easing visa restrictions for foreign students. Can we expect some of the same to Indian students also?

Wang Wenbin: The Chinese side has been working intensively for the return of foreign students to China. The process has begun for Indian and other foreign students to return to China to resume their studies. The departments responsible for this matter from both sides will continue their close communication on this. We are confident in seeing the return of the first group of Indian students in the near future. Building on that, the Chinese side will further proceed with the return of other Indian students in a well thought-out and orderly manner.

CCTV: Secretary Antony Blinken, who is on a visit to South Africa, said to the press on August 8 that the US is not saying to countries that you have to choose between the US and China, but is hoping to offer a choice. On the same day, the White House released a fact sheet on the US strategy toward Sub-Saharan Africa, which says that China sees the region as an important arena to ... advance its own narrow commercial and geopolitical interests ... and weaken US relations with African peoples and governments. Do you have a response to this?

Wang Wenbin: It is not important what the US says. What matters is how African people see China-Africa cooperation.

We have noted that the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation said at a recent joint press availability with Secretary Blinken that African countries are free to establish relationships with different countries. A survey conducted by South Africas Ichikowitz Family Foundation found that 76% of the surveyed young Africans named China as a foreign power with a positive influence on their lives, outnumbering those who chose the US. A report by African pollster Afrobarometer shows 66% of surveyed Africans perceivied Chinas economic and political influence in Africa as positive. We suggest that the US heed and respect the will of African countries and people.

China always follows the principle of sincerity, real results, affinity and good faith and the principle of pursuing greater good and shared interests. We share weal and woe with the people of Africa and seek common development with African countries on the basis of mutual respect. The tangible outcomes of China-Africa practical cooperation throughout the years are there for all to see. They shall not be denigrated or smeared by anyone. Africa can very well do without so-called partners who seek to sow discord and merely pay lip service. No matter what the US says, the railways, highways, ports and buildings China has helped Africa to construct will always be there. The evidence of the time-tested and ever-growing China-Africa relations is also there for all to see. The US must not underestimate African countries judgement. We believe the African people are sharp-eyed. If the US truly wants to help Africa, then it should take concrete actions, instead of using its Africa strategy as a tool to contain and attack other countries.

We will continue to work together with our African partners to earnestly implement the outcomes of the eighth Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, build an even closer China-Africa community with a shared future, and write a new chapter of win-win cooperation between the largest developing country and the continent home to the largest number of developing countries.

Prasar Bharati: A follow-up on what my colleague asked about the return of Indian students. You said the process has started. Can you kindly update a little bit about at which stage this process is as in the list shared by the Indian Embassy and at which stage this list is with the Chinese authorities? Has China prepared the first list of Indian students who would be allowed to return as part of the first batch?

Wang Wenbin: As I just said, the process has begun for Indian students to return to China to resume their studies. We are confident in seeing the return of the first group of Indian students in the near future. We kindly ask for your patience. There will be timely updates on that.

Shenzhen TV: On August 8, the UN Security Council chaired the Open Debate on Peace and Security in Africa: Capacity-building for Sustaining Peace. How does China comment on the event?

Wang Wenbin: Yesterday, China, as the rotating president of the Security Council for August, held the Open Debate on Peace and Security in Africa: Capacity-building for Sustaining Peace. Supporting Africa in capacity building and achieving lasting peace is a priority and a focus of China during its presidency. In his remarks, Ambassador Zhang Jun, Permanent Representative of China to the UN, called on the international community to support Africa in strengthening governance capacity, improving security sectors capacity to perform their duties, improving their sustainable development capacities and building a bigger talent pool. He reiterated Chinas principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interests and the principle of sincerity, real results, affinity and good faith in developing relations with Africa. China is ready to work with African countries to seize the opportunity of implementing the Global Security Initiative and promote sustainable peace and security of Africa. China will seek more outcomes of the Global Development Initiative and FOCAC, deepen practical cooperation and contribute more to lasting peace and development of Africa.

This open debate received warm response and active participation from the international community. Apart from the members of the Security Council, more than 40 countries and international organizations, including South Africa, Algeria, Egypt, Italy, Thailand, Bangladesh, Ecuador and the African Union, registered for the meeting. Participants appreciated Chinas initiative to hold the meeting and commended Chinas statement. They also spoke positively about what China has done for Africas peace and development. African countries at the meeting said that the meeting was important and timely, which addressed key issues facing Africa and met Africas needs. It was useful for the international community to respond to Africas concerns and fully showed Chinas strong support for Africa.

Global Times: According to reports, Seishiro Eto, former Deputy Speaker of Japans House of Representatives and a lawmaker of the Liberal Democratic Party, recently said that, Japan once colonized South Korea. In a sense, Japan is like an older brother to Korea, adding I dont think the Japan-Korea relationship is equal. Japan should take a leadership position. What is Chinas comment?

Wang Wenbin: We are shocked by the remarks. We also noted that these words have drawn objection from the ROK and some ROK lawmakers have made strong protests. In international relations, countries are all equal regardless of their size, strength and wealth. Some Japanese politicians take pride in instead of feeling ashamed about the countrys history of aggression and colonization. They still show arrogance and condescension to this day. This is truly disgraceful. It also reflects the distorted view of history entrenched in Japan. And the underlying cause and potential negative impact require some reflection and vigilance of the international community.

Bloomberg: There are reports that India is seeking to restrict Chinese smartphone makers from selling devices cheaper than 12,000 rupees or equivalent to US$150. This could deal a great blow to Chinese companies like Xiaomi. And the aim of the policy is thought to push Chinese companies out of the lower segment of the market. My question is, does the Foreign Ministry have any comment on the reports that India is seeking to restrict Chinese smartphone makers of selling to the cheaper end of the market?

Wang Wenbin: We have noted relevant reports and I would refer you to competent Chinese authorities for the specifics.

I want to stress that the trade and economic cooperation between China and India is mutually beneficial in nature. We urge the Indian side to earnestly fulfill its commitment of openness and cooperation, and provide an open, fair, just and nondiscriminatory investment and business environment for Chinese companies. China will firmly support Chinese companies in defending their lawful interests and rights.

O Globo: President of Brazil Jair Bolsonaro has questioned the efficacy of anti-COVID Chinese vaccines. Can you comment on this?

Wang Wenbin: First I would like to say that the efficacy of Chinese vaccines and the effectiveness of Chinas anti-COVID measures, as witnessed by the international community, is beyond doubt.

Since COVID-19 broke out, China has always been a pacesetter in global anti-epidemic cooperation, a champion for the equitable distribution of vaccines, and a doer in honoring COVID-related commitments. Since last year, President Xi Jinping has put forward the vision of building a global community of health for all, the Global Vaccine Cooperation Action Initiative, and the Global Development Initiative, which have pointed the way for advancing international vaccine cooperation and strengthening global epidemic prevention and control and boosted confidence.

Since COVID-19 began, China and Brazil have had sound cooperation in fighting the pandemic. Chinese vaccines have played a positive role in Brazilians COVID response, which has been commended and welcomed by all sectors in Brazil. In February 2021, a large-scale trial was conducted by the Butantan Institute in the Brazilian town of Serrana using vaccines manufactured by Sinovac. After residents of the town received two doses, the data indicated a significant decrease of 80% in symptomatic cases, 95% in deaths and 86% in hospitalizations. The Butantan Institute said that Sinovacs vaccines remain safe and effective in large-scale inoculation in Brazil, remain effective despite high mobility, and provide protection for the entire population. We stand ready to work together with the Brazilian side to continue making relentless efforts to defeat the pandemic at an early date.

AFP: Firstly, Taiwan is holding artillery drills today and on Thursday. Does China plan to have any additional countermeasures in response to this? The second question is, does China feel that the Iran nuclear talks in Vienna might lead to a breakthrough soon?

Wang Wenbin: The root cause of the current tensions across the Taiwan Strait is that the DPP authorities have been colluding with foreign forces to seek independence and make provocations. They refuse to recognize the one-China principle and attempt to change the status quo that both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same China. We want to make it clear to the Taiwan authorities that any attempt to go against the trend of history or to use military force to resist reunification is bound to be rejected by all Chinese people and become futile. Such attempts are doomed to fail.

On your second question, with the concerted efforts of parties, the negotiations on resuming compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear deal have resumed recently in Vienna. Although no breakthrough is achieved, parties have explicitly expressed their readiness to reach an agreement, which is of important significance for keeping the Iranian nuclear issue on the right track of dialogue and negotiations. China appreciates the EUs effort to advance the talks and encourage it to continue diplomatic mediation efforts.

At this point, parties have reached consensus on the overwhelming majority of the arrangement concerning the resumption of compliance, and only a few issues are left to be ironed out. We call on the parties concerned to stay committed to the approach of dialogue and negotiation and step up diplomatic efforts to actively seek solutions to outstanding issues. The US, as the one who started the Iranian nuclear crisis, needs to get a clear sense of where things are headed, make the political decision sooner rather than later, respond positively to Irans reasonable concerns and enable the negotiations to produce results at an early date. All parties concerned should speak and act prudently and create a favorable atmosphere for the negotiations.

China will be actively involved in future negotiations and contribute to bringing the JCPOA back on track. We will at the same time resolutely uphold our own lawful rights and interests.

CRI: Recently, main political parties in South Sudan have signed an agreement to extend the transitional period by 24 months from February 22, 2023 to February 22, 2025, and the elections will be held in December 2024. Do you have any comment?

Wang Wenbin: We noted that the main political parties in South Sudan have reached consensus and signed an agreement on extending the transitional period. The political transitional process in South Sudan is now at a new important stage. China hopes that relevant parties in South Sudan will bear in mind the interests of their nation and people, join hands to advance the agenda of the political transition and achieve lasting peace and stability in the country at an early date. China always respects the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of South Sudan, supports South Sudan in exploring the development path suited to its national reality and stands ready to work with the international community to continue to contribute to promoting the political transitional process in South Sudan.

Peoples Daily: According to reports, Japans representative to the 10th Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) said that the Three Non-Nuclear Principles is a fundamental policy of the Japanese government, which is not considering a nuclear sharing arrangement. What is Chinas comment?

Wang Wenbin: Some Japanese politicians have lately been clamoring for nuclear sharing with the US. In the report submitted to this review conference, the Japanese government deleted the Three Non-Nuclear Principles, which had appeared in previous reports.

For this reason, the Chinese representative made clear our stern position at the conference, pointing out that a nuclear sharing arrangement violates the provisions of the NPT. Any attempt to replicate the nuclear sharing model in the Asia-Pacific is sure to meet firm opposition and severe countermeasures if necessary from regional countries. Japan should offer clarifications for its nonproliferation policies. In response to Chinas questioning, the Japanese representative said that the Three Non-Nuclear Principles is a fundamental policy of the Japanese government, there is no wavering of this policy within Japan, and the government is not considering a nuclear sharing arrangement.

China has requested the conference to put Japans clarification and statement on record. We hope the Japanese side will honor its words, earnestly fulfill its international obligations of nonproliferation, and safeguard regional peace and stability in a responsible manner.

Beijing Youth Daily: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said to the press on August 6 that the current situation is not something thats happened overnight or in a vacuum. What weve seen over the last few years is China engaging in increasingly destabilizing and potentially dangerous actions with regard to Taiwan, and this follows from that. And thats why we say that the change to the status quo thats prevailed with regard to Taiwan for more than 40 years is coming from Beijing, not from the United States. Whats Chinas response?

Wang Wenbin: What is the status quo across the Taiwan Strait? The answer is crystal-clear, i.e., both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same China and Taiwan is part of Chinas territory. Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity have never been split. In other words, the one-China principle clearly defines the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. To violate and challenge this principle is to change the status quo.

Here are the facts: the US has gone back on its commitments in the three Sino-US joint communiques and going further down the path of fudging, hollowing out and distorting the one-China policy. The US clearly pledged in the Sino-US Joint Communique on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations that it will maintain unofficial relations with Taiwan. In recent years, however, the US greenlighted and connived at visits to Taiwan by senior officials including the House Speaker, who is considered a US leader. The US pledged in the August 17 Communique released in 1982 that it intends gradually to reduce its sale of arms to Taiwan, leading, over a period of time, to a final resolution. However, the US has actually kept increasing arms sales to Taiwan in both qualitative and quantitative terms, with the total volume to date exceeding US$70 billion, including over US$1.1 billion of arms sales conducted by the current US administration. The US also reiterated in the August 17 Communique that it has no intention of pursuing a policy of two Chinas or one China, one Taiwan. However, it has been assisting Taiwan in expanding its so-called international space and even openly helped Taiwan consolidate its so-called diplomatic relations. In recent years, the USs moves to fudge, hollow out and distort its one-China commitment have become even more blatant. It has inserted more preconditions and provisos into its one-China policy such as the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, which were unilaterally concocted and have never been recognized and have been firmly opposed to by China from the very beginning. The US has also been colluding more with the Taiwan authorities and flexing muscles around the Taiwan Strait to bolster Taiwan independence separatist forces.

All these facts show that it is the US and Taiwan independence separatist forces that are undermining the one-China principle and changing the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.

The one-China principle is what underpins peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. Anyone who renounces the one-China principle would be responsible for causing fierce storms in the Taiwan Strait. We Chinese people have the guts not to yield to bullying or intimidation, the resolve to unite as one and face any challenge together, and very importantly the ability to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and dignity. We will continue to stand with the international community to resolutely uphold the one-China principle, defend Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity, deter and push back any attempt to contain China by using the Taiwan question, and shatter the Taiwan authorities wishful thinking of seeking Taiwan independence through soliciting US support.
On July 29, 2011, the chief justice of Colorados Supreme Court quietly met in a Denver parking garage with the executive director of the states Commission on Judicial Discipline to discuss the latters press for information in its inquiry into misconduct allegations tied to an alleged contract-for-silence scheme at the Judicial Department.
Colorado Springs City Council got a sales pitch Monday on how much better the wildfire evacuation software the city has already purchased could get in the coming months with the addition of traffic modeling and a partnership with Google.

The city purchased Zonehaven software to help manage wildfire evacuations and in September the company expects to provide traffic modeling services to show how long it could take to evacuate specific zones of town, said Steve Sickler, head of field operations. So if a fire official was calling for an evacuation and saw that it could take five hours to evacuate several zones, the official could scale back the evacuation and evacuate the zones in greatest danger first to help address traffic. Such decisions could be informed by the fire behavior model Zonehaven uses to predict how fast a fire could move. Once fire officials decide on an evacuation zone, the software can send alerts out to multiple platforms, such as social media, texts and traditional media at the same time.

The model will also allow the city to add a specific number of cars at a venue, such as an amphitheater, to see how that could change evacuation times.

"You could run the model, see where the choke points are, see where the roads that would be the most congested are and so forth," he said.

In January, Zonehaven expects to launch a partnership with Google Maps that will alert drivers to evacuation orders and direct them to shelters if they need to get one, he said. Google can crowdsource key information, such as road closures and fallen trees, he said. The company has a similar partnership with Waze.

The company updates data annually but the city could add in new residents or development projects on an ongoing basis as apartments are built, he said.

Sickler also encouraged the city to look into the steps Marin County is taking around wildfire evacuation mitigation steps. For example, roads can be widened to address slow evacuation times and developers can be asked to pay for some of those measures if they want to densify an area, he said.

The city bought Zonehaven amid ongoing advocacy for better wildfire preparedness as the state's fires have grown in speed and intensity.

The city paid $74,000 for the first year of services and expects to pay $36,000 annually in the coming years, Fire Chief Randy Royal said previously.

Wildfire safety advocates in Colorado Springs don't oppose Zonehaven but would like to see the city do more, including modeling evacuation times ahead of time with free software, providing residents with maps of possible evacuation routes ahead of time and using evacuation times to help guide development.

"Its not the advanced evacuation modeling that we have been asking for since the beginning," Westside Watch advocate Dana Duggan said of Zonehaven.

She noted relying on electronic notification can be problematic if cellphone communications went down during a fire and that's where evacuation maps showing primary and secondary routes could be helpful.

Advocates have also voiced concern in the past that zoned evacuations may not work well in fast-moving fires.

The advocates are working with a company on an online tool to provide residents with an estimate of how long it could take to evacuate from their homes and maps with routes. The group expects to release it in the next month at westsidewatch.org.

"I think the public has a right to know," she said.
Three people are confirmed dead, including an El Paso County sheriff's deputy, after a shooting Sunday in Security-Widefield, Colorado Springs police announced Monday.

Andrew Peery, a SWAT officer with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, was killed after responding to a shooting. Peery is survived by his wife and two children.

On Sunday just after 5 p.m., a 911 call was transferred from Fort Carson to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office Communications Center. The caller reported a shooting in the 500 block of Ponderosa Drive.

Two deputies from the El Paso County Sheriff's Office and one Fountain police officer responded and were fired upon as they arrived. The alleged shooter, identified as 33-year-old John Paz, struck Deputy Peery, seriously wounding him.

"One of the EPSO deputies, 39-year-old Andrew Peery, was struck and gravely injured," police said in a news release Monday. "Deputies were able to return fire and, once additional personnel arrived, they immediately began lifesaving measures on Deputy Peery."

Despite these efforts, police say Peery died of his injuries.

While at the scene, deputies and officers located a deceased adult female in the front yard of a residence in the 500 block of Ponderosa Drive. After obtaining and executing a search warrant, CSPD's Tactical Enforcement Unit found Paz dead inside as the result of a reported self-inflicted gunshot wound, Colorado Springs police said.

The Air Force Academy confirmed Monday that Paz was currently employed at the 94th Flying Training Squadron at the academy's airfield.

Dean Miller, academy spokesman, said the suspect had worked as a squadron aviation resource management technician since Dec. 5.

The El Paso County Coroner's Office will determine the official cause of death for all three people. Peery and the adult female's deaths are being investigated as homicides committed by Paz.

"The EPSO deputy identified as having fired their weapon has been placed on administrative leave per their department policies," police said. "No Fountain Police Department or CSPD officers fired a weapon during this incident."

"He was a kind soul," Scott Stone, a friend of Peery's, told Gazette news partner KKTV. "He was a mans man, he made sure that we were  that the guys on his team were always taken care of. He would have given the shirt off his back to his fellow officers."

Stone, a former El Paso County deputy who was injured in the line of duty during a 2018 shooting that claimed the life of Deputy Micah Flick, spoke of what this loss meant to their law enforcement family.

"Its one of the worst feelings in the pit of your stomach," he said to KKTV. "Its a gut-wrenching thing. You feel for his family, you feel for his kids. Its going to be a long healing process."

Fellow officers lined the streets Sunday night to show their respects during a procession from the hospital.

"My thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of Deputy Peery and all our neighbors in law enforcement who put their lives at risk to serve others," said Colorado Gov. Jared Polis in a statement released after the news broke.

Colorado Springs Police Chief Adrian Vasquez released a statement.

"Finding the right words to describe the tragedy that took place yesterday is impossible," he said. "To families grieving the loss of a loved one this morning, please accept my heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Colorado Springs Police Department."

Vasquez said many of the people involved in this case, from the residents who called for help to the first responders on the scene, were left "incredibly shaken."

Representative Doug Lamborn also joined in, saying "we will always stand with the #ThinBlueLine" on Twitter.

"With a heavy heart, I join all of (Colorado) in mourning (El Paso County Sheriff's deputy) Andrew Peery's tragic death," Lamborn said on Twitter. "The six-year veteran made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty."

Lamborn asked people to join in prayer for Peery's family, law enforcement officers and their families.

Services for Peery have not been announced.

The Colorado Springs Police Department will be the lead investigative agency. Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to call CSPD at 719-444-7000. Those wishing to remain anonymous should call the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 719-634-7867 or 800-222-8477.
Colorado State Court Administrator Steven Vasconcellos on Tuesday said he overlooked the discipline record of a retiring district court judge when he approved the jurist's application for the senior judge program in 2018, then recently admonished the state's judicial discipline commission for not telling the Judicial Department about it.

That judge  former Adams County District Court Judge Thomas Ensor  was fired from the program on June 1, 2021, by Supreme Court Chief Justice Brian Boatright after the latter determined Ensor was one of several judges whose misconduct was detailed in a two-page memo that's at the center of an ongoing judicial scandal.

Vasconcellos was the department's director of court services at the time of Ensor's application and was one of four people to sign off on admitting him to the senior judge program  after the discipline commission told the department of the discipline, but offered no details behind it.

Vasconcellos said he goofed and should have inquired further.

"When reviewing the senior judge program application, I missed the notation that a private admonition had been assessed," Vasconcellos wrote The Gazette in an email. "I should have highlighted the matter directly with the State Court Administrator at the time for him to confer with the Chief Justice on how to move forward. I take responsibility for the mistake."

Vasconcellos said he was similarly unaware of the admonishment when he wrongly accused the discipline commission in a letter last year of not making the discipline known to the department when it inquired about the judge's background as part of the program's application process. The commission pointed out Vasconcellos' accusation in its own letter Monday to a legislative committee considering changes to the state's discipline process.

Ensor did not immediately return several messages from The Gazette seeking comment.

Retired judge Nathan "Ben" Coats was chief justice at the time Ensor was approved, and Christopher Ryan was the state court administrator. Each signed off on the application.

Both men are at the core of the judicial scandal in which Ryan alleged Coats approved a contract to former Chief of Staff Mindy Masias in return for her not suing the department for sex discrimination. The two-page memo detailing the judicial misconduct was at the root of that decision, Ryan has said. An investigation by a firm hired by the department to look into the allegation determined there was no quid pro quo. The investigating firm, however, did not interview Ryan, Masias or Eric Brown, the memo's author.

Senior judges are retired jurists who are contracted yearly by the department to fill in wherever needed. The judges are assigned duties by Vasconcellos' office.

Boatright fired Ensor following a private telephone discussion the two had that same day, according to copies of emails and the firing letter obtained by The Gazette through the department's open-records rules. Ensor's conduct or the specific reason for his firing are not detailed in the correspondence, but instead refer to the private conversation the two men had.

Several sources familiar with the case confirmed Ensor was the judge who was privately admonished by the discipline commission in May 2008. The admonishment was over "serious misconduct including displaying naked skin, the physical touching/rubbing of his chest on a woman's back, and inappropriate commentary," according to a report by Investigations Law Group released by the department last month. The judge's conduct included a solicitation to "come sit on my lap," according to ILG.

Ensor was referred to in the Masias memo as a judge who "exposed and rubbed his hairy chest on a female employee's back" and who received no serious discipline for the conduct. The commission's punishment was secret and by law not disclosed to the public, so Masias, even in her role as the department's human resources director at the time, would not have known of the admonishment.

ILG concluded that insufficient action occurred by the discipline commission, calling the admonishment the mildest sanction possible.

ILG also wagged a finger at Vasconcellos and three others who signed off on Ensor's application without inquiring what the admonishment was about. ILG did not identify Ensor by name in its report or identify Vasconcellos as one of the signatories of Ensor's application. Vasconcellos signed the contract that hired ILG on behalf of the Judicial Department.

"From the perspective of Judicial administration, this Judge was allowed to serve as a Senior Judge after these events, despite at least four senior leaders at the State Court Administrators Office being notified that he had been the subject of a private admonition in the past," ILG wrote.

"None of these four individuals investigated what had taken place before approving him for the Senior Judge Program. Although I found no evidence to suggest that any of these individuals had actual knowledge of the facts underlying the admonition, it is striking that none of them asked any questions about it. Any one of these four could have, and should have, done more to unearth the facts underlying the private admonition the Commission on Judicial Discipline disclosed."

Vasconcellos was named administrator, the highest civilian position in the judicial branch, in October 2019 after Ryan resigned following a newspaper investigation into the Masias contract.

ILG said although Ensor's case was 15 years old, it "demonstrates failures in process and oversight as well as a failure to provide serious consequences on both the Commission on Judicial Disciplines and Judicial Administrations accounts. The Branch and the Commission on Judicial Discipline can and should do better to treat this kind of misbehavior seriously."
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George Brauchler is the former district attorney for the 18th Judicial District. He also is president of the Advance Colorado Academy, which identifies, trains and connects conservative leaders in Colorado. He hosts The George Brauchler Show on 710KNUS Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Follow him on Twitter: @GeorgeBrauchler.
By Azernews

By Sabina Mammadli

The Czech Republic is considering implementing several projects focused on green energy in Azerbaijan in the near future, the Foreign Ministry of the Czech Republic has reported.

According to the source, after the publication of 'Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-economic Development', several bilateral projects focused on water management, green energy, and energy efficiency are under consideration for the near future.

The ministry stated that Czechia also welcomes Azerbaijans 4-year Action Plan for the establishment of a "Green Energy Zone" initiative on its lands liberated from the Armenian occupation.

"The capacity of renewable resources is tremendous in Karabakh. The hydro energy potential of these mountain regions is of interest to experienced Czech companies. Czech companies are very much interested in participating in the restoration process, and currently, we are waiting for the concrete options," the source added.

The Czech Republic is viewing the renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors as promising areas of cooperation with Azerbaijan. A pilot project completed by Czech companies in the Garavalli village school in Shamakhi District in 2018, was aimed at raising awareness about the efficient use of energy resources.

"We are ready to continue the project in case the Azerbaijani government finds it beneficial and expedient. Following the signing of the Agreement in the field of Energy between the Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Czech Republic and the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2021, we hope our cooperation in this sphere will further intensify. Early next year, we are planning to hold the fifth Session of the Joint Commission on the Economic, Scientific-Technical and Cultural Cooperation", the ministry noted.

On September 30, 2021, Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic signed an agreement on energy cooperation. The agreement envisages the expansion of bilateral cooperation in the spheres of oil and gas, petrochemicals, renewable energy, including bioenergy in the field of energy, and the establishment of relations between the relevant sectors in line with both countries' national legislation. The document also covers the development of energy efficiency and energy-saving cooperation in the residential sector and large energy enterprises, and the matters such as the mutual exchange of information and practices, training sessions, joint seminars, conferences, and forums.

Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic cooperate in different spheres of the economy. Around 30 companies with Czech capital operate in Azerbaijan. The Czech Republic had invested $37.2 million in Azerbaijan, while Azerbaijans investment in the Czech Republic amounted to $48.2 million during the period from 1995 to 2021.

Incidentally, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic amounted to $307.4 million in 2021.
There's a whirlwind of emotion among neighbors who live off Ponderosa Drive in Widefield. There is shock, sadness, anger and frustration but i
COVID-19-related hospitalizations in Colorado fell last week after nearly two months of plateau, and health officials in the state are urging uptake of treatments to prevent severe disease.

Despite the recent dominance of a new, transmissible version of the virus, Colorado's COVID-19 numbers have not surged over the past month, state data shows. Hospitalizations have begun to decline, and the average positivity rate has plummeted. Case counts  a less useful tool now with the availability of at-home tests  have gently declined for nearly a month.

That's good news, particularly as cases increase elsewhere in the country and world over the past six weeks, thanks to the dominance of the BA.5 subvariant of the omicron strain. Meanwhile, state health authorities on Friday announced the confirmed arrival of a new subvariant, BA.2.75, which they said could have "some degree of greater immune escape than other circulating omicron subvariants." In other words, this latest strain  part of the broader family of the omicron variant  could be more transmissible than what's currently floating around.

It's unclear what impact BA.2.75 will have on Colorado or anywhere else. On Thursday, Eric France, the state's chief medical officer, urged Coloradans to continue making use of available COVID-19 treatments, regardless of which strain is circulating, to avoid hospital stays.

"There's a lot of COVID out there right now. We see a lot of BA.5 cases of the co-variant just percolating along in the community, and it's been that way since June," he said. "So we just need to remind people that COVID is out there, you may get exposed, you may get sick with COVID, and if you do, don't forget to use these treatments so your risk of hospitalization is reduced by almost 90%."

The treatments are especially important for at-risk Coloradans, like those over 60 or have comorbidities like immune conditions, asthma, history of tobacco use or obesity. Treatments available include Paxlovid, a twice-a-day pill taken for five days. Paxlovid must be prescribed by a health care provider.

To better facilitate access to providers who can prescribe the medicine or others like it, state officials have expanded Colorado's COVID-19 website to list pharmacies dispensing the drugs and private telehealth providers who, for a fee, will write prescriptions for qualifying patients. France said the state is not endorsing any one provider.

He also noted the "rebound effect" associated with Paxlovid: Some patients, including President Joe Biden, have used Paxlovid and tested negative, only to test positive once they finished the drug. France said that's because the drug stops the growth of the virus, but if there's anything still left in your system when you finish the drug, it may start growing again.

"You might still have symptoms or test positive again," he said, "but you don't end up in the hospital, which is why you were taking it at the time."
Colorados state court administrator  the highest civilian position in the Judicial Department  last year falsely claimed judicial discipline officials failed to reveal they had admonished a district court judge of misbehavior before the judge was admitted to a senior judge program, the states discipline commission said in a letter filed Monday with legislators.
By Azernews

By Vugar Khalilov

The Guatemalan Foreign Ministry has condemned the barbaric attack by a religious group on the Azerbaijani Embassy in London, Azernews reports, citing the ministrys Twitter account.

Guatemala condemns the acts of vandalism carried out by religious extremist groups, on August 4, at the Azerbaijani Embassy in London. We call for a thorough investigation and bringing to justice those responsible, the ministry tweeted.

The treacherous and dishonorable attack on the Azerbaijani embassy in London, and the disrespect for the national flag have caused outrage both inside the country and among Azerbaijan's friends abroad, who have shown solidarity with the people of Azerbaijan.

"On August 4, 2022, the embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was attacked by a group of radical religious groups," the Foreign Ministry said.

After storming the embassy building, a group of vandals raised religious flags and chanted radical religious slogans on the balcony of the building. The Metropolitan police of London intervened hours later and the group members were taken out of the building and detained.

"In accordance with the Vienna Convention, through diplomatic channels, the UK authorities were warned about the security of diplomats and diplomatic premises," the Foreign Ministry said in the statement.

The heinous attack against the Azerbaijani embassy in London has triggered tough reactions both inside the country and abroad. Social media users reacted harshly to the incident and came up with various scenarios as to who might be behind the move.
The Iowa Community Action Association recently honored state Sen. Amanda Ragan of Mason City for her bipartisan work to help Iowa families and communities.

The Iowa Community Action Association, based in Des Moines, is an organization that helps provide a wide range of services to empower low-income citizens to become self-sufficient, according to its website. The nonprofit group helps citizens in all of Iowa's 99 counties.

At a statewide conference last month, Ragan was one of three state legislators named a Friend of Community Action. The annual award is given to individuals who champion causes that benefit individuals and families served by the Iowa Community Action network. Rep. Jacob Bossman, R-Sioux City, and Rep. Dr. Tom Jeneary, R-Le Mars, were recognized with Ragan.

Community Action could not execute its mission to serve individuals facing economic hardship without the involvement of community leaders such as Representatives Bossman and Jeneary and Senator Ragan, said Executive Director of Iowa Community Action Association Katherine Riley Harrington in a statement. These three legislators were instrumental in advocating for an increase in funding to the Family Development and Self Sufficiency Program (FaDSS) in the 2021 Legislative Session.

"I deeply appreciate this award. In my time in public service, I have always believed the mission of government, at all levels, is to help our fellow citizens and make their lives better. Helping families dealing with challenges become successful and independent makes Iowa better place for all," said Ragan in a statement.
Holidays are hard for Patty Thorington. Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays  gathering with family just reminds her that her son isn't there.

July 27 was supposed to be Robert Mitchell's golden birthday, and to celebrate, his nieces took a sign depicting a picture of him and the phrase "happy birthday, Bobby" on the Channel Cat Water Taxi. Thorington said that it helped them feel close to their uncle on what was supposed to be his special day.

"It's hard for them, the girls, they miss their Uncle Bobby a lot," said Thorington, voice cracking. "They decorate his grave quite a bit for every little occasion they can."

It's been almost four years since Mitchell and a passenger were stopped at the Menard's parking lot on North Brady Street by Scott County Deputy Greg Hill for a faulty brake light. According to a report from the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, over the course of the stop, which occurred at 1:08 a.m. Oct. 23, 2018, Hill learned that Mitchell had a suspended driver's license and an extraditable warrant out in Indiana. Deputy Meghann Messmore was also on the scene.

Hill attempted to arrest Mitchell, and a struggle ensued, with Mitchell still in the car. Mitchell drove the car back and forth as the deputy clung to the car. Hill then shot Mitchell who drove off and was found later in the Kwik Shop parking lot near Division Street and Kimberly Road.

Mitchell died 17 hours later from his wounds.

Thorington spent as much time as she was allowed with Mitchell in the hospital before he died. Seeing her son in a hospital bed, one bullet wound in his torso and another in his arm, was one of the most horrifying things she'd ever seen.

"[A Davenport police officer] told me to try not to go in there a lot because if something bad were to happen, I don't want to remember Bobby like that  I want to remember how he was," Thorington said. "I should have followed that a little better, because I have terrible images in my mind of the scene of that night."

After filing a $5 million wrongful death suit with attorney David O'Brien against Hill and Scott County last year, the Davenport mother has decided to speak out against the defense's methods, which she said stretch the truth  specifically, a video submitted as evidence that she described as a cartoon.

The defense has submitted an interlocutory appeal to the Iowa Supreme Court, and created a video from dash cam footage of the incident that O'Brien said animated the scene to look different from what really happened. He said the county spent $66,000 on the video.

If the interlocutory appeal is denied, trial is set for May 2023. The appeal could delay trial proceedings if accepted.

"I know Patty believed that her fellow citizens in Scott County should know what the county is doing to try to cover up its wrongful conduct, including spending lots of money, more than the average annual salary for its citizens, to create a cartoon that does not accurately depict what happened," O'Brien said.

Ian Russell is an attorney from the firm Lane & Waterman who, along with The Sotos Law Firm, represents Hill and Scott County. He said he was not in the position to confirm or comment on the cost of the video analysis, and was unable at the time to show the video.

"The dangerous and fast-moving conditions created by Mr. Mitchell put multiple deputies in danger," Russell said in a statement. "Video evidence of the incident will be presented to the jury in a format that will allow the jury to see the full story in a clear and understandable way."

Mitchell was far from a perfect person, Thorington said. He'd gotten into trouble before and had struggles. But he loved his family fiercely and would help anyone in need, to his own detriment if necessary.

One of the last holidays Mitchell spent with his nieces was Valentine's Day, Thorington said. He took them to get their faces painted. Thorington has a photo of them together hanging on her wall. He'd gotten some Slim Jim's from the food bank he volunteered at, and gave them to the girls as presents for the holiday.

Now they leave Slim Jims on his grave.

"He was a really loving, caring person, and he deserved to be in trouble  I would tell him, 'You deserve to go to jail, Bobby. You did wrong. You deserve to go to jail," Thorington said. "But he did not deserve to be murdered."
IOWA CITY  Over the last three years, the University of Iowa spent or committed to spending a total $125,899 with Des Moines-based Seneca Companies, for which Iowa's newest member of the Iowa Board of Regents serves as president and chief operating officer.

Iowa State University  another one of Iowa's three public universities governed by the nine-member volunteer board  has paid Seneca a modest $4,150 since the 2020 budget year.

"Meetings with the Board of Regents and other regent universities will be held to determine the future business relationship with Seneca," ISU Public Records Officer Ann Lelis told The Gazette.

The University of Northern Iowa has not paid Seneca for any goods or services in the last three years.

Much of the UI payments to Seneca  a multipronged company serving the petroleum and fuel-systems industry  have been for facilities-related maintenance, repairs and installations on campus.

The UI, for example, reported a Seneca purchase order totaling $27,227 in October 2021 for "underground storage tank inspections" and another one for $26,944 a month later for the replacement of E85 fueling equipment. The university paid Seneca $16,536 in December 2020 to treat fuel in nine tanks at the UI Hospitals and Clinics and other campus facilities.

ISU's purchases were for parts and repairs.

James "J.C." Risewick, who Gov. Kim Reynolds appointed to fill a regent vacancy in June, has been president of Seneca since 2017, chief operating officer since 2016 and vice president of sales since 2013, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Including previous positions he held at the company, Risewick has spent more than 16 years with Seneca, which his father Chris Risewick founded in 1972.

Risewick was appointed to fill the regent vacancy left by Milt Dakovich, who died Feb. 24 of cancer. As Dakovich was reappointed to a second six-year stint in 2019, the term Risewick is filling runs through 2025. He could be reappointed at that time.

On Risewick's Board of Regents conflict of interest disclosure form, filed July 20, he listed his ownership of Seneca as a possible conflict, along with his service on the boards for Impact Iowa's Heroes, an organization created to support first-responders and military couples, and ChildServe, a pediatric rehabilitation and care organization for injured, disabled or developmentally-delayed kids.

Risewick is listed as a member of the 2021-2022 ChildServe board of trustees. He's not listed on the Impact Iowa's Heroes website among its board members, but his father is.

According to the regents' conflict of interest policy, actual or potential member conflicts might include "employment, ownership of, or service on the board of directors of an organization that has or may have relationships with the Board of Regents."

Management of such conflicts include the required disclosure forms and consultation with the board office. Some interests can be handled with disclosure alone, according to board policy.

"Others may require recusal from participation on certain matters, or, in very unusual situations, divestiture of the interest or resignation from a conflicting position," the policy states.

Board rules also note any regent with a direct or indirect interest in an entity or organization proposing to offer a product or service to the board or its universities "shall not have access to any information regarding the proposed transaction or any competing entity that is not otherwise available to the public and/or all entities competing under the proposed transaction."

Risewick is among several Republican members of the board who has made hefty donations in recent years to Reynolds.

Over the past two years, Risewick has donated $59,517 in campaign contributions to Reynolds, $39,517 of which has been in-kind donations in the form of flights on his company's private airplane  like to and from Dubuque for the Field of Dreams game in August 2021.

His father, Chris Risewick, also donated $35,807 to Reynolds in 2020, including a $25,807 flight on June 26, 2020.
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Bob Karp waited nearly three hours through a hot August Sunday for a glimpse of the painted bunting  sometimes called the most gorgeous bird in North America, with its feathers flashing red, green and blue.

And just about the time Karp had given up hope, walking back to his car at Dix Park in Raleigh, it landed right in front of him, posing, rewarding his patience.

I only had 20 seconds to shoot, said Karp, a Raleigh photojournalist. It sounds corny, but you feel like youre blessed to spend that moment and then its gone. He was the rock star.

For the past few weeks, bird fans from as far as Charlotte have traveled to Dix where, just outside the sunflower field, the male bunting appears with its patchwork of feathers.

Some birders report spotting a female as well  colored yellow-green all over.

Such a fluke that I had to see it

The bright-yellow goldfinch is far more common here. But the bunting, nicknamed nonpareil or unrivaled, warbles more in the brush around Texas, often making it to the Southeastern coast, according to Audubon.org.

It was such a fluke that I had to see it, said Karp, who has made five forays into the Raleigh park, most recently with a half-dozen other birders. There was no politics going on. It was just bird. Have you seen him? Have you seen him? Have you seen him?

At least a dozen delighted Twitter posters show the colorful visitor, head lifted in song.

What a day! What a bird! tweeted Brenda Hiles-Hurt of Greensboro. Amid all the trouble in the world, a little splash of happiness.

Having spent 30 years photographing all sorts of news, in New Jersey before Raleigh, Karp recalls the year New York went crazy for a mandarin duck in Central Park, which he shot along with a row of photographers.

Youd have thought it was George Clooney, he said.

But Raleighs avian celebrity feels special, he said, because it requires silence and intense listening  tuning in for the hint of a song, a flutter of wings and a fleeting visit from a winged curiosity.
The mother of a Gastonia man shot to death by a Concord police officer during an attempted February car theft has sued in federal court, claiming that the officer broke the law when he shot her unarmed son multiple times, called in the incident, then opened fire again.

Brandon Combs, 29, died later that day at a Concord hospital. He had been shot five times while behind the wheel of Officer Timothy Larsons police SUV, the familys attorneys say.

The new complaint, filed Tuesday in Winston-Salem federal court by attorneys for Virginia Tayara, accuses Larson and the city of Concord of excessive force, assault and battery, wrongful and intentional death and gross negligence.

Atlanta attorney Harry Daniels told The Charlotte Observer on Tuesday that the complaint seeks some form of justice for the Combs family.

We cant expect real justice because we cannot go back in time to stop what happened, Daniels said in a phone interview before a scheduled 11 a.m. news conference in front of the Charlotte federal courthouse.

He also said the family hopes the civil complaint will jump start some criminal charge or indictment against Larson.

Police officers cannot be judge, jury and executioner. Thats why we have a criminal justice system. Thats why we have the rule of law, Daniels said.

During the press conference, attorney Chance Lynch of Roanoke Rapids said Combs was murdered by someone who had taken the oath to protect.

Larson, who was later fired by his department, could not be reached for comment Tuesday. His attorney, Chris McCartan of Concord, did not respond to an Observer email seeking a response.

In a Tuesday statement, the Concord Police Department said it was aware of the lawsuit, and we understand people want to know more about the officer and his actions on February 13.

But as we said before, in order to protect the integrity of the pending independent review by the (State Bureau of Investigation) and the District Attorneys office, we will not be making further comment until the DA has announce(d) her decision, police said.

Combs death remains under investigation by Cabarrus County District Attorney Roxann Vaneekhoven, who has had the findings of the SBI probe since June. Vaneekhoven did not respond to an Observer email Tuesday seeking an update of the case.

Asked during the press conference what shed say to Vaneekhoven if she had the chance, an emotional Tayara responded, Charge him (Larson). He murdered my son.

Body-cam video

In February, Concord police said Larson had shot Combs following an early morning physical confrontation at the Modern Nissan car dealership.

Daniels said the truth of what happened is captured on Larsons body-camera video, which he and the other family attorneys have seen but has not been released to the public. The details, however, are included in the complaint.

According to the lawsuit, Larson answered a burglary call at the dealership at 5 a.m. on Feb. 13 and discovered Combs trying to steal a Nissan pickup. After Larson stepped away from the pickup, Combs opened the drivers side door he had locked and fled.

He ran to Larsons patrol car and climbed in behind the wheel. The car was not moving. Larson, who stood at the passenger-side fender, fired five shots through the windshield, according to the complaint. He then called in the shooting to the police department dispatchers, then fired again.

Larson did not go to Combs aid, the lawsuit claims. Combs was alive when other officers arrived and removed him from the car, according to the complaint. He died an hour later at Atrium Health Cabarrus.

Larson, 27, later told the other officers at the scene that he shot Combs because he was trying to steal his SUV.

According to documents received from an Observer public records request to the city of Concord, Larson was fired May 20. He had been on the job for about two years when the shooting occurred.

In Larsons termination letter, police Chief Gary Gacek cited his former officer for insubordination for refusing to answer questions following the shooting and for giving misleading or untrue answers in other instances to his superiors and the State Bureau of Investigation, which handled the shooting investigation. Its unclear from the letter if the events surrounding the shooting were discussed.

Daniels, who represented the family of Andre Brown following his 2021 shooting death by deputies in Elizabeth City, has called the Combs footage one of the worst police-shooting videos he has ever seen.

We didnt know anything until we saw (the video). We watched it in utter disbelief, Daniels said.

The most disturbing thing is not the unjustified use of deadly force, but that (Larson) paused and then used deadly force again. The first five shots were bad enough. The last shot was overkill, man. It was overkill. I cant make sense of it.

In a statement included with the release of Larsons personnel file in June, Concord Police said they continue to cooperate with all sides of the investigation, including the familys lawyers.

We understand how difficult this time is for the Combs family, and we want to ensure they receive the answers they need to heal following the death of their loved one.

Police use of deadly force

In North Carolina and every other state, police officers are justified in using deadly force if they have a reasonable belief that they, their fellow officers or the public is in imminent risk of death or serious injuries.

The law is written around a landmark Supreme Court case, Graham v. Connor, which originated in Charlotte.

Every year, police fatally shoot about 1,000 people, a number that has remained largely unchanged despite widespread police reforms following the deaths of George Floyd and others, according to the Washington Post, which has tracked officer shootings for the past five years.

Both Combs and Larson are white.

Prosecutions of cops for on-duty shootings are rare, convictions even more so.

Under the Concord Police Departments use of force policy, officers are banned from shooting into vehicles unless they or others are being targeted by deadly physical force other than a vehicle, or the moving vehicle poses an imminent and ongoing threat of substantial physical harm to the officer or another person from which there is no reasonable means to escape.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the 1985 case of Tennessee v. Garner that officers cannot use deadly force to stop a fleeing suspect unless they are placed in imminent danger.

It is no doubt unfortunate when a suspect who is in sight escapes, Justice Byron White wrote in the ruling, which is excerpted in the lawsuit.

But the fact that the police arrive a little late or are a little slower afoot does not always justify killing the suspect. A police officer may not seize an unarmed, nondangerous suspect by shooting him dead.
" " The choice of a name for your baby is a huge decision  but there are laws, rules and customs (not to mention grandparents) the world over that temper some of our worst baby-naming impulses. BSIP/UIG/Getty Images

Choosing a name for a tiny human you've never met is a big decision. There's evidence that your baby's name can influence her future. Or, it can set her apart from the masses.

Take magicians Penn and Emily Jillette, for example. The duo named their baby Zolten, which certainly hints at a future in the family business. Then there are the celebrity parents who take baby-naming to an art form. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow and musician Chris Martin opted for Apple, and power performers Beyonce and Jay-Z named their daughter Blue Ivy.

While kids with unusual names will never understand the joy or annoyance of being known by "first name, last initial" like all the Ashleys of the 1990s, they'll spend a lifetime living with their unusual monikers.

You can name your baby anything you want, right? After spending all those hours searching baby name databases, it seems daunting to narrow down the selections  but in a smattering of states and countries, the choices have been limited for you.

If some names are illegal, what in the world can, and can't, you name a baby?

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The Illegal Name Game

There's no universal law governing baby names. The regulations  if they exist  vary greatly by country, and even the laws of individual states in these countries don't line up cohesively.

In the United States, for example, state laws restrict parental naming rights in a variety of ways. For example, there may be restrictions on particular surnames or diacritical marks (like accent marks) and prohibitions on obscenities, numerals or pictograms, says J.R. Skrabanek, senior counsel with the Snell Law Firm in Austin, Texas.

"Generally, these laws need to comply with the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment in order to be constitutional," he says.

The restrictions are generally practical ones, such as requiring only the letters of the alphabet and not pictograms or symbols, says Matt C. Pinsker, an adjunct professor who teaches constitutional law at Virginia Commonwealth University. "For example, [in the U.S.] a name entered on a birth certificate must be entered in the traditional letters of the alphabet, and not the letters or symbols of the Chinese alphabet. Other times, names are limited in length because of record-keeping software. Some states allow accents over names, while others do not."

For example, Pinsker says, the accent over the "e" in Jose is actually prohibited by California law. A move to overturn the law banning diacritical marks failed in 2014, in large part because adding Spanish accents to birth records could cost state registrars an estimated $10 million.

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Around the World

American naming laws are different from those on other continents. "In Europe, parents are not allowed to name their children Hitler or Stalin, but in America, that would violate the freedom of expression," Pinsker says.

Denmark, in particular, has some of the most restrictive naming laws. In order to abide by the country's Law on Personal Names, parents may select a name from a list of 7,000 approved names for both boys and girls, all using traditional spellings. To give a child a moniker that is not pre-approved requires review by government officials. Of the estimated 1,100 names that are scrutinized annually, about 20 percent are rejected. Among the thrown-out names? Anus, Pluto and Monkey. On the approved list? Names like Benji, Molli and Fee.

In some states, names aren't officially banned until after a parent claims a problematic moniker for a child. In 2014, officials in Sonora, Mexico, reviewed actual names from the state's 132 newborn registries and banned 61 of those names, including Facebook, Robocop and Batman. Previously, the state had no such prohibition, which means babies legally received names such as US Navy, Hitler and Harry Potter before the ban was enacted.

For many officials, its less about the names and more about what they represent: a potential lifetime of putdowns. "The law is very clear because it prohibits giving children names that are derogatory or that don't have any meaning and that can lead to bullying," said Sonora state Civil Registry Director Cristina Ramirez, according to the Associated Press.

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A Question of 'Should'

Aside from specific state or country restrictions, parents still have access to a considerable variety of names, some that are potentially objectionable for reasons ranging from historical issues to criminal acts.

"Just because you can do something, doesn't mean you should," says Andrew Hoverman, a Maryland attorney who is familiar with state laws regulating names. "Just because you may have the ability to name a child something objectionable, controversial or crude doesn't mean it is a good idea."

Now That's Interesting According to babycenter.com, in 2017, the top three names given to baby girls in the U.S. were Sophia, Olivia and Emma, in that order. For boys, the top three went to Jackson, Liam and Noah.
By Azernews

By Vugar Khalilov

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov gave an interview to the leading Turkish media agencies as part of his working visit to Turkiye on August 9, Azernews reports, per the ministry.

In the interview with TRT World, as well as Hurriyet, Anadolu Agency, Haber Global, and Daily Sabah reporters, Bayramov talked about Azerbaijans efforts to ensure peace and security in the region after the 44-day war.

He responded to questions about the Azerbaijani-Armenian peace talks under the auspices of the European Union, Armenia's latest provocations against Azerbaijan, Armenias violation of the Trilateral Statements and non-fulfillment of its obligations, the Turkiye-Armenia normalization process, measures on the Zangazur Corridor, as well as related to the Shusha Declaration, and the attack on the Azerbaijani Embassy in London by a radical religious group.

The minister informed the media representatives about Azerbaijan's high level of relations with Turkiye and numerous areas of cooperation, Azerbaijan's views and steps to ensure peace, security, and development in the region, the country's restoration and reconstruction efforts, the restoration of transport and communication lines, and the threat of landmines in the liberated lands.

According to the ministry, Bayramov also addressed other areas of mutual interest, during the interview.
The city of Helena bid farewell to one of its finest during Monday evening's city commission meeting.

Filu, a 10-year-old German shepherd-Belgian Malinois mix, is officially retired from his career as a K-9 officer with the Helena Police Department.

As part of a rather cold motion to declare Filu as "surplus property," care of the dog was transferred to his handler, Cpl. Josh Ray, and the Ray family.

Filu was purchased by the city for about $14,000 and began his HPD tenure in 2013.

"Since then, Filu has worked for the Helena Police Department assisting patrol and SWAT in numerous operations and suspect apprehensions," HPD Chief Brett Petty said during the meeting.

Filu was in attendance to receive his congratulations from Helena Mayor Wilmot Collins and was rather vocal during the meeting.

"As you can tell, Filu loves his job," Petty said. "Filu still has his drive, always has, but unfortunately with age and medical issues, he is ready to retire, unlike what you're seeing here."

Collins joked that the barks signaled the dog's excitement about his imminent retirement.

"Filu, you are fully retired," Collins said following the unanimous vote.

He was born in Hungary, trained in North Carolina and followed commands spoken in Dutch.

Though he likely will not need the skills in retirement, Filu can sniff for 14 kinds of explosives as well as track, apprehend and subdue people.

At the time of his hire, he was the only explosives-detecting dog in the state outside Malmstrom Air Force Base, according to then-Chief Troy McGee.
The television show "Yellowstone" put out an online open casting call on Monday, seeking local talent to work as extras for filming in Helena on Aug. 24.

Casting directors Kelly Hunt and Tracy Dixon said in an email they are looking to hire locals to work as paid extras for the day on the Paramount Network show starring Kevin Costner.

Dixon said extras will be paid $130 for the one day of work, plus they will get $40 to help with gasoline costs.

She said the show has filmed in Helena before and is also known for filming in Missoula and Darby. She added extras have driven to those towns from Helena and said now they can work closer to home. She said the reception for extras has been good in the past.

"We're so happy to be here," she said. "We love, love, love Montana."

Hunt and Dixon said in an email that strict COVID-19 protocols are in place for all filming activities on Yellowstone, and local Montana extras will be required to abide by health and safety practices, including no-cost COVID-19 testing.

People wanting to be extras should submit their two best photos via email -- making sure they are individual photos, not family photos -- and include their height, weight, clothing sizes, the best phone number to reach them at and what city and state they live in. Updated casting notices will be posted to their Facebook page: Yellowstone Extras Casting.

Email yellowstoneextrasmontana@gmail.com and put Zebra Biz in the subject line, the news release states.

"Yellowstone," created by Taylor Sheridan, chronicles the Dutton family, led by John Dutton, who controls the largest contiguous cattle ranch in the United States. The ranch is in constant conflict with those it borders  an expanding town, an Indian reservation and Americas first national park.

Along with Costner, the show stars Wes Bentley, Kelly Reilly, Luke Grimes, Cole Hauser, Kelsey Asbille and Gil Birmingham.

Dixon is the owner of Los Angeles-based Casting Associates and Hunt is owner of Atlanta-based Southern BG Casting.
David L. Cohen, U.S. Ambassador to Canada, expressed optimism for Columbia River Treaty (CRT) negotiations at the PNWER Summit held in Calgary, Alberta, last week. Pacific North West Economic Region (PNWER) is an organization of legislators from 10 northwest states, provinces and territories.

Cohen said that U.S. Department of State officials have been working hard on technical issues in the background, and he expects positive progress to surface soon.

Few details were offered as he sat beside Canadas Ambassador Kirsten Hillman. With Scotty Greenwood moderating, they discussed issues from COVID-19 to worker shortages and supply chain disruptions. Greenwood is executive director of Canadian American Business Council and a former U.S. diplomat. Montana legislators have requested removal of CRT Article 13 and compensation for loss of taxes and economic base.

Although Ambassador Cohen made no promises, he later told me he is aware of Montanas concerns about CRT Article 13, which grants Canada the right to divert 26% of the average annual Kootenai River flow into the Columbia River at Canal Flats, British Columbia, a hundred miles north of the border. The Kootenai eventually joins the Columbia at Castlegar, British Columbia. Libby Dam was created under CRT Article 12.

CRT was ratified in 1964, and water management by Canada changes drastically in 2024, unless a modernization is negotiated. In 2013, the two nations agreed to consider modernization of flood control through water release management, redistribution of benefits, and impacts on aquatic life.

The summit agenda was jam-packed with hot relevant topics and experts with 550 legislators, business leaders and policy experts attending in person. My part included presentations on forest management and production and aquatic invasive species.

Other Montanans presenting in person included NorthWestern Energy CEO Bob Rowe, Department of Agriculture Chief Attorney Cort Jensen, and FWPs Liz Lodman representing the Montana Invasive Species Council. Several others took part online from July 22-27.

Cross-border travel and trade were part of most panel discussions, including COVID-19 vaccination requirement for entry to Canada.

Alberta MLA Richard Gotfried passed the PNWER presidents gavel to Idaho Senate Leader Chuck Winder, with the 2023 Summit planned for Boise. My term on the PNWER Executive Board began at Big Sky, 2015, with election as vice president. I served two years as president and one as immediate past president, and Montana hosted the summit again in 2021.
Unofficial word from a reliable grain source today is that early corn yields in east central Illinois may be in the 150 bushel range.

That would be sufficient for 1980 when the U.S. produced 5 billion bushels per year, with enough left over for a few hundred million bushels to be exported. But that is far from acceptable in 2022 when it will take 15 billion bushels of corn to meet the 2.5 billion bushel export demand.

Of course, Champaign, Vermilion and Douglas county farmers say Mother Nature was not kind to them this year, and rains never came. So, while 150 bushels per acre is going to make it hard to pay for fertilizer for the 2023 crop, they did the best that the weather allowed. And ironically, 150 bushels may be a bumper crop in another part of the world where weather is usually not an issue.

Not everyone may have followed what has been happening in Europe. International news sources have frequently reported record heat of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit across much of Europe this summer. But along with that has also been a shortage of precipitation. France is a major international corn producer and in the past month over 90% of that nation has had less than 25% of typical moisture.

The Matif grain exchange in Paris reports corn prices are at record high levels, primarily because farmers are not selling. It is likely that corn sales have diminished, not because farmers are looking for higher prices, but more so because they may not have any corn to sell.

Frances corn crop probably will drop 19% this year because of the hot, dry weather, the Agriculture Ministry said Friday. The crisis is a tragedy for our farmers, our ecosystems and for biodiversity, according to the prime ministers statement. Weather forecasts suggest the drought could last another two weeks and become even more concerning, officials said. The country just had its driest July in decades.

Three-quarters of Romania, Europes biggest producer, is affected by drought of varying severity. Farmers in parts of eastern Germany could lose their entire crop.

And what is happening with great irony, is that the first shiploads of corn coming from Ukrainian ports that have been blocked by Russia are headed for ports in the European Union. Instead of hauling wheat across the mine-laden Black Sea to African and Middle Eastern ports where millions of people are reported starving because of the Russian invasion, Ukrainian corn is headed to England and Ireland.

Other ships are hauling sunflower meal to China and sunflower oil to Italy. And there is some corn headed for Turkey. But there are no reports of grain headed to Middle Eastern or African ports. It is likely a case of nations that have the most money are getting the early grain shipments.

Those farmers in east central Illinois, where drought has been steady throughout the growing season, continue to hope for rain that will fill out corn kernels and soybean pods, and will have to depend on Ukrainian farmers to fill the export demand. Crop insurance indemnities will be their lifeline to 2023.
DECATUR  The 17-year-old Decatur victim killed by gunfire was identified Tuesday as Damarion W. Wright.

Macon County Coroner Michael E. Day said Wright was pronounced dead at 8 p.m. Monday in the emergency room of Decatur Memorial Hospital.

Day said an autopsy conducted Tuesday showed that Wright died from a "single penetrating gunshot wound to the head." An inquest will be held later.

Decatur police Sgt. Steve Carroll said officers were dispatched at 6:50 p.m. to the 1200 block of East Sedgwick Avenue in response to a report of a person being shot and they found Wright.

The Decatur Police Department is investigating leads, interviewing witnesses and processing evidence, he said. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information can call 217-424-2734 or Crime Stoppers at 217-423-8477.

The area is blocks from the intersection of North Illinois and East Main streets, where police say three people  two males and a female  were shot early Sunday. Carroll told the Herald & Review earlier Monday that patrol officers went to that area at 4:45 a.m. Sunday after a report of shots fired.

Two of the victims went to the hospital by private vehicle and one by ambulance, he said. Police received "no cooperation whatsoever" from people present at that scene, and officers were confronted by a "large crowd with several aggressive people," he said. Police continue to seek information about that incident as well.
DECATUR  The Decatur Police Department is seeking help from the public in solving the death of a 14-year-old juvenile, this weeks crime of the week.

According to the press release, police arrived at approximately 2 a.m. on July 31 to 2882 N. Dineen St., in reference to a shooting.

"Upon arrival, officers located a deceased 14-year-old juvenile with an apparent gunshot wound," the report stated. "Three additional gunshot victims were transported to Decatur Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries."

Shell casings were recovered at the scene, and several individuals have been interviewed.

The police department is requesting information from any other witnesses. They may contact detectives St. Pierre or Wrigley of the juvenile investigations at 217-424-2738.

Anyone with information on the incident can call Crime Stoppers at 217-423-TIPS. Callers do not have to give their names. Crime Stoppers will pay up to $2,500 for information leading to an arrest on the incident.
DECATUR  The Decatur Public Schools' Finance Committee on Monday took a new Dennis School funded by federal COVID cash off the table, and replaced it with the prospect of a new building for American Dreamer STEM Academy.

We're out of options for the west end, said board Vice President Andrew Taylor said. There's no magical parcel we can use. But I'm not willing to give up on a new Dennis School. It won't work for this opportunity.

The comment during a discussion of why the the former Woodrow Wilson Junior High School site was not a viable short-term option for a new Dennis School.

Instead, Taylor said, the board can look at the usual route when the district needs a new building  a referendum to pay for it.

The district has the borrowing power to issue $30 million in bonds, said Mike Curry, chief financial officer.

Superintendent Rochelle Clark said the place to begin is a survey of the community to see if there is support for such a plan, and then a committee to make plans if there is support.

American Dreamer improvements

With a new Dennis off the table for now, talk turned to the issue of American Dreamer STEM Academy, whose renovations were put on hold in May after the costs of those renovations were revealed to be far higher than anticipated due to the cost of building materials. Just to provide a middle-school gym and some of the smaller items on the list of needed renovations was going to cost $10.8 million instead of the $2.5 million anticipated, Taylor said, and that did not include classroom additions that are necessary for the school to accommodate the seventh and eighth graders that have been added. The building also needs a new roof and repairs to windows, both of which will also require asbestos abatement. Windows are one item that require a long waiting period for delivery, Metzger said, due to supply chain holdups.

The location is inconvenient, said board member Regan Lewis. When it was at French (now Dennis School's Mosaic campus at 520 W. Wood St.), families could walk. There's a huge issue of getting families to the site for family nights and parent-teacher conferences.

One of the attractions of French Academy, as American Dreamer was known at that location, was the generations of families that had gone to school in that building who lived in the area. When the school moved, enrollment fell, Lewis said.

Seventh and eighth grade students have no lockers, which means they have to hang their things on hooks in a room used for passing periods, ceiling tiles are falling off in the gym, and the middle school students have only two bathrooms, one for boys and one for girls, each with two stalls. That makes it difficult for over 100 students to use them in a timely fashion, so teachers have to give bathroom passes during class time. The orchestra class meets on the stage while two physical education classes are underway in the gym at the same time.

We thought we were doing the best thing for those kids (by moving the school to that location, formerly Enterprise School at 2115 N. Taylor Road), Lewis said.

But that building is also old, and fixing the problems with it would only be putting a finger in the dam, she added.

There are certain inherent problems with the building that we can't fix, she said.

Board member Al Scheider said all of these things should have been considered prior to moving the school, and that the building should have been upgraded before the move.

Taylor suggested considering the former Oak Grove site for a new American Dreamer building. Oak Grove is closed and the building has been demolished, while Lewis said the grounds at the current location on North Taylor Road are extensive enough to build a new building there while students continue to use the existing building.

Tight deadline

In order to use CARES funds for a new American Dreamer, Curry said, the district would have to change the parameters of the application they used to get approval to build a new Dennis School and reapply and hope it will be approved in time. The deadline for that approval would be Sept. 30. The Illinois State Board of Education would make the decision.

Clark said she could get a tentative plan ready for the board's approval at its Aug. 23 meeting.

If approved by the board, it would be the second option that has been considered for the COVID funds. The first option, building a new Dennis School in Lincoln Park, was met with vocal opposition. It was ultimately derailed when the Decatur Park District Board decided to end discussions on selling the land to the school district.

Some in the community had questioned why the board wasn't considering the Woodrow Wilson site, which is near Lincoln Park and within the Dennis boundary.

'Money pit'

Kent Metzger, director of buildings and grounds, told the board members who were present Monday that Woodrow Wilson, built in the 1930s, sits on 2.14 acres. In that era, students and many of the teachers walked to school because they lived nearby. With the need for parking lots now, that site would not be big enough, and buying up nearby houses could take months if not longer and in some cases, might not be possible. The best the district could hope for in the wedge where the building sits, bordered by Sunset, Oakland and Cottage Hill streets, is a total of 7.3 acres, which he said would be a tight fit.

However, during the initial phase of looking for west end properties, Taylor said they discovered a mess as far as deeds to properties are concerned. Of the 26 properties the district would have to buy to acquire that 7.3 acres, many have contested deeds and liens that would first have to be cleared. And if any of the owners refused to sell, it might not even be possible to acquire the properties at all.

Asbestos used in the construction of the building in the 1930s would have to be removed, and the building would have to be gutted and rebuilt, said board President Dan Oakes.

It would be a money pit, he said.
DECATUR  Police said they are not getting much help trying to investigate gunfire on a Decatur street that sent three wounded people to hospital.

Decatur police Detective Sgt. Steve Carroll said patrol officers responded at 4:45 a.m. Sunday to the intersection of North Illinois and East Main streets after a report of shots fired.

Three people had ended up shot: two males and a female, said Carroll. I understand two were taken to hospital by private vehicle and one went by ambulance. They all had non life-threatening wounds.

Carroll described officers on scene being confronted by a large crowd, with several aggressive people agitating each other and the police. He said police received no cooperation whatsoever from the people present as officers tried to unravel the circumstances that led to the shootings.

Carroll said there appeared to have been a large street party taking place before the gunfire erupted.

Anyone with information can call (217) 424-2734 or Crime Stoppers at (217) 423-8477.
DA says almost 600 cases were dealt with in the months of June and July, including 181 felonies
New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

Partly cloudy skies. Low near 75F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low near 75F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph.
We Are China

PLA Eastern Theater Command continues joint exercises around Taiwan

Xinhua) 08:09, August 09, 2022

NANJING, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) continued its joint combat exercises and training as scheduled on Monday in the waters and airspace around the Taiwan Island.

These exercises mainly focused on the joint anti-submarine operations and assaults on sea targets.

The Command's navy deployed several destroyers, frigates, warplanes, and ground-to-ship missile units in a joint anti-submarine operation.

Anti-submarine patrol aircraft, warships, and ship-based anti-submarine helicopters cooperated in exercises. These included submarine searches, simulated assaults, and defense operations.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
By Trend

US President Joe Biden will sign the accession protocols to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization for Sweden and Finland on Tuesday, August 9, according to his working schedule published by the White House, Trend reports citing TASS.

"In the afternoon, the President will deliver remarks and sign the Instruments of Ratification for the Accession Protocols to the North Atlantic Treaty for the Republic of Finland and Kingdom of Sweden," the statement noted. The ceremony will begin at 21:00 Moscow time.
Dana Cronkhite has been name the new director of economic development of Dickenson County.

The Dickenson County Board of Supervisors (BOS) voted to name the Dickenson County native, top the position last Thursday.

I am truly honored to have the opportunity to represent Dickenson County in this position. We have a big job ahead of us in the county and economic development takes time, but I am confident with hard work, perseverance and patience, we have a plan and vision that will bring Dickenson County to the next level, Cronkhite said.

The appointment comes four months after the BOS and the Industrial Development Authority (IDA) voted to adopt the county's new Strategic Economic Development Plan.

The Strategic Economic Development Plan was developed in collaboration with former Virginia Delegate Clarence E. Bud Phillips. Phillips has been working with the county's BOS, IDA and county administrator, Larry Barton, since this past January to develop a plan and strategy to increase available jobs, training and resources for the citizens of Dickenson County. The plan focuses on the strengths and assets of the county and outlines clear and measurable short- and long-term goals that were designed to best prepare the county for future development and for achieving the goal of a better quality of life for its citizens.

Cronkhite, a 1998 graduate of Clintwood High School, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and a Bachelors of Social Work (BSW) from the University of North Carolina- Wilmington (UNCW) and a Masters of Social Work (MSW) from the University of New England. She and her husband relocated to Dickenson County with their daughter in 2021 following his retirement from the United States Marine Corps.

Cronkhite will join the team in Dickenson County from Universal Health Services, where she currently works in business development representing eight behavioral health facilities in Virginia.

She was the recipient of the NC-NASW Toby Brown award, the Sylvia Polgar Service Award, the Presidential Volunteer Service Award and the American Express Partnership for exceptional performance and client relations. She is experienced in business operations, business development, client relations and marketing, advocacy, and relationship management.

I am looking forward to working with Mrs. Cronkhite, County Administrator Larry Barton said. Her education and experience will be an asset to our economic development team, and I am eager to see what can be accomplished with everyone working together.
The Fluvanna County Sheriff's Office on Monday released dramatic body camera footage of deputies rescuing a woman from a house fire.

Dispatchers at about 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday received a call of a structure fire with a person trapped inside. Deputies arrived at the property on Old Fork Lane in the Cunningham area of Fluvanna County about eight minutes later, the sheriff's office said.

The footage shows deputies going inside the house to rescue the woman. Because of heavy smoke, the deputies had to make several entries.

The woman, 83, was immobile and had to be removed from the structure, which became engulfed in flames, officials said.

The sheriff's office in a statement said deputies Frank Harris Jr., William White and Jordan Seay-Allen put their lives in danger.

"Their heroic actions saved a life that morning and stand as a proud moment for the Sheriff's Office and Fluvanna County," the statement said. "A more formal acknowledgement of their service is being discussed, but their bravery deserves public acknowledgement."

The fire is still under investigation. The woman is still recovering from the fire.
Catawba County is likely to take out a $32 million loan to pay for construction of the new Maiden Elementary School. The loan is $12 million more than originally planned.

The cost of building the new elementary school increased from about $20 million, estimated in 2020, to $29.2 million in August. In total, the project is now expected to cost about $32 million, including furniture and equipment, according to information from Catawba County.

Catawba County Schools asked the Catawba County Board of Commissioners for an extra $12 million to meet that $32 million need. At a county subcommittee meeting Monday, county commissioners recommended the $12 million addition to the loan for approval by the full board.

The new school is planned to be built next to the current school, which was built in the 1950s with additions in the 1960s and 70s. The gym was built in 1928, according to information from Catawba County.

If the additional money is approved by the board of commissioners at its next meeting on Aug. 15, construction is expected to start in the fall, according to Catawba County Schools. Construction is expected to take up to two years.

Once construction is complete, the old building will be demolished.

Money for library improvements

At Mondays subcommittee meeting, county commissioners also recommended accepting grant money for the county-operated public libraries.

The state library system got $10 million in American Rescue Plan Act money and distributed it among library systems in North Carolina. Catawba County Library System received about $90,000, library Director Siobhan Loendorf said.

There are no firm plans for the money yet, but ideas include improving the outdoor space behind the Newton library for outdoor programming and improvements to the Maiden branch.

Loendorf is also considering buying a computer program and virtual reality goggles that would train people in different trades. The program is $8,000 a year, she said.

The library will likely get the money in the next two months, she said.
A Charlotte woman was arrested on a felony charge of providing contraband to an inmate stemming from an incident linked to Alexander County.

Fanisha Locke, 51, of Charlotte, was arrested on Monday following an investigation that started in April, the Alexander County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

In April, the sheriffs office was contacted by the Alexander Correctional Institution in reference to a conspiracy to deliver controlled substances to inmates via mail. Evidence was submitted to the North Carolina State Crime Lab for analysis, the sheriffs office said.

Locke was arrested after the evidence was analyzed. Locke is scheduled to appear in Alexander County District Court on Aug. 15. She is currently being held under a $10,000 bond, the sheriffs office said.
HICKORY  Garrett Hinshaw, president of Catawba Valley Community College, will be the featured speaker at the Aug. 10 meeting of Newcomers of Catawba Valley. The group will meet at 10:30 a.m. at the Hickory Regional Airport.
Because I am an inveterate optimist who likes to think the best of other folks, Im going to assume for the sake of the following argument that Gov. Roy Cooper and former Govs. Jim Hunt, Mike Easley and Bev Perdue sometimes sign documents theyve not closely read.

I make that assumption because they and several other Democratic governors and former governors of Southern states have just intervened as amici curiae in a matter before the U.S. Supreme Court. Its justices are considering two related cases challenging the use of racial preferences by the admissions departments of Harvard, the nations oldest private university, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the nations oldest public one.

More to the point, the two universities currently engage in rampant and indefensible racial discrimination. To a significant number of high-performing Asian and white applicants, they essentially reply: You are well-prepared to succeed on our campus but you are the wrong color; therefore, you will not be admitted.

The amicus brief submitted on behalf of the governors shuffles all around this fundamental truth, kicking up a lot of dust to try to cover it up. The attempt fails.

The brief states, for example, that the appreciation of diversity is a deeply held value and diverse student bodies also encourage civic engagement and promote skills that future leaders need, like openness to debate and a willingness to seek out different viewpoints. Agreed! But in this context, defining diversity in racial or ethnic terms is absurdly narrow and grotesquely offensive.

If the goal were truly to foster debate and discussion of differing views on campus and beyond, for example, universities would use their admissions policies to engineer student bodies that approximated the broader society in religious sentiment, partisan affiliation and personal philosophy.

I wouldnt favor that, either, but it would make more sense. We can have reasonable confidence that students identifying as Christian, Jew, Buddhist, and atheist have real differences in opinion about the nature of existence and the meaning of life. Ditto for Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, etc. Can we say the same about students to whom racial and ethnic labels are attached, as if there is such a thing as a white or Black or Hispanic opinion?

The amicus brief also presents an extensive argument that some racial and ethnic minorities are statistically underrepresented in higher education when compared to the general population. Agreed! This has little to do with the issue at hand, however.

Students for Fair Admissions has sued Harvard and UNC-Chapel Hill. Its case implicates other highly selective universities, to be sure. But if it prevails, ending racial discrimination in admissions, then some students who might otherwise have gone to UNC-Chapel Hill will instead be admitted to, say, UNC-Greensboro (one of my alma maters). Given that some campuses are experiencing declining enrollments, and others are nonselective in the first place, there is simply no possibility that a win by the plaintiffs will have any discernible affect on the college-going rate of minority students.

Again, remember what the current policy does. It essentially tells a significant number of high-performing Asian and white applicants the following: You are well-prepared to succeed on our campus but you are the wrong color; therefore, you will not be admitted.

Au contraire, insists the brief filed on behalf of the governors. Racial discrimination has no place in American society, it states. But careful consideration of race as one factor in an individualized assessment of a college applicant is not discrimination.

This is, to paraphrase Jeremy Bentham, nonsense tottering on very high and rickety stilts. These universities dont use race and ethnicity as plus-factors to break a few ties. The proportions are wildly skewed. Favored students with lower GPAs and test scores are routinely admitted over unfavored students with higher GPAs and test scores.

UNC-Chapel Hill has engaged in pervasive discrimination. I wish North Carolinas current and former Democratic governors hadnt signed their names to a defense of it.
By Azernews

By Sabina Mammadli

A female resident of Salyan District in Azerbaijan, who posted videos on social media platforms and claimed to be a service member of the national army, has been detained, the Shirvan Police Department of the Interior Ministry said.

According to the department, a protocol was drawn up against this individual (born in 1992), who posted videos under the 'herbi226' username, posing as a military police officer 'Gular Ahmadova'.

The case file has been submitted to the court regarding the signs of violating Article 534 of the Code of Administrative Offences.

Military uniforms, found in her house, were confiscated.

To recap, earlier the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry stated that the citizen, who presented herself as a serviceman, has no connections with the Azerbaijani army.
Australians will be blocked from accessing 40 commercial websites that facilitate academic cheating in a move that Education Minister Jason Clare has claimed will seriously disrupt the operations of the criminals behind them.

The blocked contract cheating sites  which sell students essays or assignments, or can even sit exams on a students behalf  are accessed around 450,000 times per month by Australian students that dont have the time or inclination to work their way through their assignments and exams on their own merits.

Such services threaten academic integrity and expose students to criminals, Clare said in announcing the blocks, who often attempt to blackmail students into paying large sums of money.

The list of blocked sites is a subset of a larger database of more than 2,333 suspected commercial academic cheating websites  including 579 sites specifically targeting students at Australian higher-education institutions  that the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) has compiled since a 2014 ministerial direction ordered it to closely monitor the sector.

In 2020, the Commonwealth TEQSA Amendment (Prohibiting Academic Cheating Services) Act followed the lead of a New Zealand law by making it an offence to provide, arrange, or advertise academic cheating services.

The law empowered TEQSA to refer providers of such services to the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions services for civil and criminal sanctions, and to direct Internet service providers and online search engine providers to block access to such services.

The criminalisation of contract cheating will, the explanatory memorandum to the legislation noted at the time, demonstrate to Australias international market of potential students, their parents/guardians, foreign governments, and overseas employers that Australia takes the quality and integrity of its higher education system, its higher education qualifications, and its graduates very seriously.

Formally blocking the 40 contract cheating sites is a coup for TEQSA, which certifies university courses and oversees academic integrity and receives around $660,000 per year to combat academic cheating services.

Last July, the organisation commenced its first action under its new powers, applying to Federal Court for an injunction that would require 51 telecommunications providers to take reasonable steps to disable access to the site Assignmenthelp4you.com.

That request was granted in October  paving the way for the new blockage, which has been targeted at the most popular contract cheating sites and uses what Clare called new special protocols, developed with telecommunications industry body Communications Alliance and designed to streamline the blocking process.

Further down the slippery slope

Yet the targeted blocking of the sites also raises the spectre of ongoing Internet filtering, which has persisted as a contentious issue since it was adopted as official Labor policy in 2007, abandoned by then-Communications Minister Stephen Conroy in 2012 after sustained protests, then re-introduced by an ambivalent Coalition government.

Originally intended to protect children online, the filters scope was hotly debated amidst concerns it would also block sites discussing euthanasia and assisted suicide.

Assisted-suicide advocates ran formal hacking classes to teach concerned citizens how to bypass the filters using proxy Internet services, even as the government moved to block other illegal content including online gambling, movie and TV piracy sites, and websites suspected of being involved in fraudulent activities.

Australias law against contract cheating websites has already been hailed as a success by some  yet while many operators have abandoned the Australian market since the law was passed, other countries are watching the companies redouble their efforts elsewhere.

Increasingly aggressive essay mills, UK academics recently observed, are tapping AI essay writing tools and offering students buy-one-get-one-free deals, loyalty schemes, and cashback offers.

It's all part of the professionalisation of a global industry worth billions of dollars per year, amidst growing concerns that companies like $1.1 billion-revenue Chegg straddle the line between well-intentioned student aid and facilitator of cheating.

Chegg says it is "deeply committed to academic integrity" and takes "any attempts to misuse our platform extremely seriously".

However, students are specifically warned off of using Chegg by institutions like Curtin University, which warns that "the use of file sharing and assignment help websites such as Chegg.com are not condoned for use at Curtin. If you are asking someone online or elsewhere to provide you with assessment answers, this should be a major red flag that you are contract cheating."

With lawmakers explicitly not targeting the students that use the sites, the website block may simply benefit the operators that did not make TEQSAs list  although TEQSA did also publish a reminder for higher education providers to update their academic integrity policies and procedures.

The organisation has also called for members of the public to report suspected contract cheating sites online.

Yet for all the efforts of authorities, one analysis recently noted, the dark reality is the illegal services are developing at a faster pace than the systems required to curb them. The all-penetrating issues indicate systemic failures on a global scale that cannot be addressed by an individual academic or university acting alone.
A miniaturised robot is on schedule to blast off into space to showcase its skills.

The compact, two-pound miniature robotic assisted surgery (RAS) device will carry out mock operations aboard the International Space Station in 2024.

Invented by University of Nebraskas professor of engineering Shane Farritor, the tiny surgical device, known as MIRA, short for miniaturised in vivo robotic assistant, will work autonomously without the guiding hand of a doctor or astronaut to test its skills in space.

MIRA continues to push the boundaries of whats possible in RAS. Were excited to take it a step further and help identify what could be possible in the future as space travel is becoming more of a reality for mankind, Farritor said.

Its small size makes it appealing to surgeons and hospital staff and makes it ideal for use within the tight space and mass requirements of a long-duration space mission.

Onboard, MIRA will operate inside a microwave oven-sized experiment locker and perform activities that simulate those used in surgery, such as cutting simulated tissue and manipulating small objects, enabling the research team to collect real-world data through these simulations.

Preparing MIRA for take off

During the next year, Farritor and engineering graduate student Rachael Wagner will write the necessary software and configure MIRA to fit inside a space station experiment locker.

The team will also need to exhaustively test the device to make sure its robust enough to survive launch and ensure its systems will perform as anticipated in space.

NASA has ambitious plans for long-duration space travel, Farritor explained, making it especially important to test the capabilities of the technology that may be needed during missions lasting months and even years.

As people go further and deeper into space, they might need to do surgery someday, he said.

Were working toward that goal.

MIRA has two key advantages.

First, it can be inserted through a small incision, enabling doctors to perform abdominal surgery in a minimally invasive manner.

It utilises existing minimally invasive tools and techniques familiar to laparoscopic surgeons, and does not require a dedicated operating room or specialised infrastructure.

With its compact size, its expected to be significantly less expensive than existing robotically-assisted surgical devices

In previous tests, surgeons have successfully used the device to perform colon resections (colectomy).

Secondly, the technology could allow surgeons to work remotely  someday potentially repairing an astronauts ruptured appendix on a mission to Mars or removing shrapnel from a soldier injured by an IED thousands of miles away.

In a previous experiment, retired NASA astronaut Clayton Anderson took the robots controls while at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, directing MIRA to perform surgery-like tasks in an operating room almost 1,500 kilometres away at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

Could automatic surgery be a reality in the future?

The device is being programmed to work autonomously to conserve space station communications bandwidth and to minimise the amount of time astronauts spend with the experiment.

The astronaut flips a switch, the process starts and the robot does its work by itself, Farritor said.

Two hours later, the astronaut switches it off and its done.

It will be the most autonomous operation of the robot so far.

Although Farritor anticipates MIRA will function on its own in 50 to 100 years, this missions goal is not autonomy, but to fine-tune the robots operation in zero gravity.

Farritor is co-founder of Virtual Incision, a startup company based on Nebraska Innovation Campus.

For nearly 20 years, he and his colleagues have been developing the tiny surgical robot, which has attracted more than $144 million (US$100M) in venture capital investment since its founding in 2006.
Uber isnt the only company looking to launch local flying taxi services.

In whats being billed as the future of flight, self-driving air taxis are coming to Australia.

The autonomous, all-electric flying machines are set to take off in South East Queensland (SEQ) after the regional Council of Mayors announced it has partnered with Wisk Aero to introduce a sustainable, scalable autonomous air taxi service to the region.

The council believes local tourism, the mix of rural, beach and city environments, and the upcoming Olympic Games makes this a viable opportunity.

A specialist in advanced air mobility (AAM), Wisk has developed the first all-electric, self-flying air taxi and have had its fifth generation aircraft on display in the area.

Brisbane Lord Mayor and Council of Mayors (SEQ) chair Adrian Schrinner said attracting global businesses and innovative industries to the region like Wisk was a big part of the reason why the Council of Mayors first kickstarted the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games journey.

Were thrilled to be working with Wisk to look at how South East Queensland can capitalise off the new jobs and economic opportunities associated with this Australian-first industry, Schrinner said.

The Wisk Aero taxis are electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOL) that rise like a helicopter and fly like a plane.

By doing away with the need for a runway and being able to fly from point to point, they particularly suit urban air mobility.

Services to go global

With cities like Singapore, Paris and Los Angeles expecting to embrace advanced air technology, the regional consoles want to boost these kinds of innovative experiences that cater to the tourism and travel market across SEQ.

Schrinner believes SEQ is the perfect Australian location to trial and launch the air industry.

With a memorandum of understanding in place, the regions councils want to drive the introduction of the autonomous air mobility industry more widely, which could extend beyond operators like Wisk across SEQ.

This focus on collaboration between councils and the industry is intended to focus on the needs of the communities while also ensuring theres a consistent, collaborative approach to planning and regulation.

This collaborative approach will be critical to the industrys investment and rollout across our region in the future, he said.

Wisk is flying high. Photo: Supplied

Magnificent flying machines still need regulation

Wisks Asia-Pacific regional director Catherine MacGowan sees this the new partnership as a starting point for expanding across Australasia, offering more sustainable tourism and transport options.

It has the potential to accelerate the introduction of emissions-free aviation, help reduce transport-driven carbon emissions, and realise the benefits of AAM for the Queensland state economy and the wellbeing of its citizens, she said.

While these flying machines show the possibilities of this technology, there are still significant regulatory hurdles to overcome for all these air taxis services.

The vehicles themselves will need to be certified and flight paths approved in busy airspace that is also now having to accommodate drones.

Noise and a raft of and safety considerations will also need to be addressed.

In its more recent regulatory roadmap, the Civil Aviation and Safety Authority (CASA) has started to define the safety standards and timelines for integrating these aircraft into civil aviation.

Schrinner acknowledged there is still plenty of work to do around regulation and safety but is confident on the outcome.

The prospect of having autonomous air taxis operating throughout our region and between venues during the Brisbane 2032 Games is really exciting, he said.
ASHEVILLE  Highland Brewing Company is pleased to donate a collection of COVID-Era artifacts to the permanent collection of The Smithsonians National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. The museum is collecting items from communities, businesses, and individuals across the country to document how the U.S. coped with the global pandemic.

These items are being collected to not only authenticate and detail the scientific events that grappled our country, but also to evidence the responses from businesses and communities within the museums curatorial units. Highland was one of several breweries from across the country invited to contribute objects from the pandemic to showcase how the beer industry adapted.

Theresa McCulla, curator of the American Brewing History Initiative at the museum, said, We are delighted to accept the donation of these artifacts from Highland Brewing Company to the museums collections.

The artifacts included Highlands taproom signage indicating public health measures, a cloth face mask sewn from a Highland branded bandana, a colorful floor sticker guiding taproom guests to maintain a safe social distance, and a single-use paper menu. The brewery also submitted Rising Haze IPA packaging and sample cans to showcase a beer released virtually in the height of the pandemic.

Highlands taproom was closed due to the pandemic in spring of 2020, so Rising Haze was Highlands first virtual and package-only beer release, said Leah Ashburn, Highland Brewing Company family-owner and president. Rising Haze IPAs name drew inspiration from the misty mornings we have here in the Blue Ridge Mountains, but the name gained new meaning for us in 2020 as we all felt the need to rise out of the haze of the pandemic.

Highlands beer portfolio has continued to evolve since 2020. Rising Haze IPA was replaced by Hazy Heights IPA in the brewerys year-round portfolio in the summer of 2022.

Highlands items help to record historically how the brewery, like many other food and beverage businesses, pivoted business models, and best practices to continue serving their communities considering the constraints of the pandemic.

McCulla concluded, Together, this collection of artifacts from Highland provides valuable, beautiful documentation of an era of unprecedented challenge and resilience within the American brewing industry and our larger society.
The Salvation Army Womens Auxiliary (SAWA) recently awarded two scholarships. Both recipients plan to major in political science to prepare for active community involvement in the future.

Larkin Tyler Horton, a 2022 graduate of West Stanly High School, will be attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

William Lindan Rucker, a 2022 graduate of Cabarrus Kannapolis Early College High School, plans to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

SAWA grants scholarships annually, depending on the availability of funds, to students in Cabarrus and Stanly county based on the students financial need, involvement in helping to better their community, and commendable character traits.

Both 2022 recipients were outstanding applicants, and SAWA wished them great success in their academic future and beyond.
CHARLESTON  Periods of heavy rain and high temperatures did little to deter a week packed with 4-H activities, food, carnival rides and a host of other family-fun events at the Coles County Fair.

The week-long event concluded Sunday night.

Tomi Sue Austin, vice president of the Coles County Fair Association who led the charge throughout the week, said she was happy with the turnout for the fair and hopes to see it rise.

Austin said aside from some rain in the middle of the week, the fair went off without a hitch, including a packed grandstand on Friday and Saturday and people continuing to ride rides into the evening on Sunday.

The demo derby was really good, the tractor pulls were good, the queen contest was good, Austin said. I mean, we just had a good crowd.

Austin said she felt the week was successful because of the work put in by the fairs directors and volunteers. With those individuals offering their time for free, Austin said it showed how much care goes into operating the fair.

The fair is all about the kids, in my opinion, Austin said.

The annual Coles County Youth Auction, which featured the sale of such items as watermelon, parking spots, general projects, swine, rabbits, goats, poultry, cattle and sheep, was a record-breaker. The sale earned a grand total of $153,494, compared to last years $145,674.50.

It was up from last year so I think they had good prices in the auction and everything, so that went well, Austin said.

The auction is more than the money the children earn, however. Austin said the children are able to learn the skills required for raising their animals and continue to work on those skills through the auction.

Of course, they've done their project, raise their animal or sell their general projects and that just helps them for next year to purchase their animal or the supplies they need for the general project.
MATTOON  The route has been announced for the fourth annual Coles County Truck Convoy for Make-A-Wish Illinois on Saturday, Aug. 13.

Community members are invited to attend convoy festivities starting at 8 a.m. at Lake Land College, where the trucks will line up before departing at 11:30 a.m., and to then cheer on the trucks along the route from Mattoon to Charleston.

The convoy is scheduled to take U.S. Route 45 north to Illinois Route 16, use Route 16 and 19th Street to turn east onto Broadway Avenue, and take Broadway east through downtown and past Peterson Park to Logan Street. The trucks will then turn south onto Logan toward Route 16 and follow Route 16 east to Charleston.

In Charleston, the convoy will continue east on Route 16 past Morton Park to Illinois Route 130. The trucks will travel north on Route 130 and then west on Illinois Route 316 to Loxa Road. The convoy will then head south on Loxa to Route 16 before disbursing westbound.

Activities at Lake Land will include a truck rodeo from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.; bounce houses; and concessions from Dolly's Donuts, The Vagabond Eatery, Bryn's Cookie Bin, Pauly's BBQ, and CZ Fried Green Tomatoes.
The summer nurse intern program is designed for nursing students with at least one clinical semester completed. This paid internship allows the student to get real-life experience as a nurse by shadowing nurses in all areas of the hospital to help give them a better idea where they want to work once they graduate.
MATTOON  Professional caregivers in long-term care environments face unique challenges which may impact their personal health and well-being.

A workshop series, "Learn. Think. Care.", offered by University of Illinois Extension, helps caregivers build personal resiliency, knowledge, and strategies for meeting the needs of clients in long-term care environments.

"Professionals that work with older adults often have trouble accessing convenient continuing education opportunities," says Karla Belzer, Illinois Extension family life educator. "The series is designed for professionals to join the session online, during their work day, eliminating the barriers of time and travel that often impair participation in continuing education."

Three free one-hour workshops will be held online beginning at 2 p.m. on Sept. 8. Register at go.illinois.edu/LTCwebinars at least one week prior to each workshop to receive all access information. CEUs and CPDUs are available for a fee.

Workshop topics:

 Let's Talk About Stress: Sept. 8, 2 p.m.

Discover the importance of self-care and explore a variety of practical techniques to use to manage stress and improve health and well-being.

 Happy Hacks for More Positivity and Increased Well-Being: Oct. 6, 2 p.m.

Learn the common barriers to positivity and personal well-being and find out more about simple science-backed principles and practices or happy hacks to boost positivity, productivity, mood, and attitude.

 The Trauma Informed Care Professional: Nov. 3, 2 p.m.

Understanding the inuence of trauma is an essential rst step in becoming a compassionate and supportive professional. Gain a shared understanding and language of trauma, awareness of the prevalence of trauma, and a shift in thinking to become more trauma-informed and aware.
By Trend

Social welfare of the families of martyrs and war disabled is constantly in the center of attention of the Azerbaijani state, mother of martyr Yusif Budagov, Lyatafyat Budagova told Trend.

She noted, that President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev's support for the families of martyrs noticeable at every step.

"My son, Yusif Budagov participated in the first Karabkh war and on October 27, 2020 became a martyr in one of the battles for Fuzuli. For the heroism shown in the battles he was posthumously awarded the medals For the Motherland and For the liberation of Fuzuli," she said.

The mother of the martyr, who was given an apartment in the village of Khojasan, noted that on behalf of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, President Ilham Aliyev, the families of the martyrs are surrounded by constant attention.

"This step is an indicator of the special attention of the head of state to the memory of our martyr, to all the families of the martyrs," mother expressed.

Budagova expressed gratitude to the head of state for taking care of the families of martyrs as well in other areas.
A surge in operational expenses led to a near tripling in the second-quarter loss for 22nd Century Group Inc. to $11.5 million.

The manufacturer reported Tuesday the increased loss came in spite of a 72.9% jump in revenue to $14.48 million.

22nd Century had an earnings loss of 6 cents, compared with a loss of 3 cents a year ago.

The average earnings forecast was a loss of 5 cents by three analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research. Analysts typically do not include one-time gains and charges in their forecasts.

The company derives most of its revenue from producing traditional cigarettes for third-party customers, although it has been selling its very-low-nicotine cigarettes in test markets in Chicago and Colorado.

Meanwhile, the company had a 71.3% increase in cost of goods sold to $13.58 million and a 60.4% increase in sales, general and administrative expenses to $11.37 million. It also had an $885,000 loss on investments during the quarter.

The primary difference in the year-over-year revenue and expenses comparison is 22nd Centurys $55 million purchase in May of privately held GVB Biopharma.

22nd Century, based in Buffalo, has its cigarette-manufacturing operations in a 62,000-square-foot plant in Mocksville where it has 49 of its 65 employees.

22nd Century chief executive James Mish told analysts that the Mocksville plant has added both a new production line and a second shift that has resulted in a 25% production capacity increase.

The manufacturer's VLN King and VLN Menthol King brands contain up to 95% less nicotine than conventional traditional cigarettes.

Transforming 22nd Century

"We expect to transform this business into a high-margin, higher-volume operation," Mish said.

"This includes the opportunity to license our technology and capabilities to other brands that want to join us in the reduced nicotine revolution."

A leading tobacco industry analyst said in June it could take up to a decade to resolve whether the Food and Drug Administration could require traditional cigarettes to contain very low to minimal nicotine levels.

The FDA formally rolled out in June its proposal to reduce nicotine content in traditional cigarettes to minimal and potentially non-addictive levels by as early as May 2023.

According to 2021 data from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are about 30 million U.S. adult smokers.

The FDA proposal is expected to draw legal challenges from tobacco manufacturers that could take several years to address, similar to projections about the FDAs recent strategy to prohibit or severely limit menthol flavoring in traditional cigarettes.

We think it will take a decade or longer for the FDA to introduce nicotine caps due to the long nine-step process at the FDA, the inevitable litigation, and then the one-year time given to retailers to get rid of excess inventory, Barclays analyst Jain Gaurav said in an investor note.

The FDA will need to take into consideration inputs from scientific, legal, law enforcement, public health, industry and budgetary stakeholders, and respond to all the comments in an iterative process before it can publish a final rule.

More than 40 anti-tobacco and public-health advocacy groups have filed a joint submission to the FDA urging it to reduce the nicotine levels to as low as legally possible to zero in hopes of curtailing demand.

Meanwhile, pro-tobacco and anti-smoking advocates expressed concern that smokers would opt to smoke more cigarettes to get the same levels of nicotine, which could make consuming cigarettes even riskier given the burning of tobacco leaves is the main carcinogen involved with traditional cigarettes.

They also expressed concerns about very-low-nicotine requirements being the catalyst for a thriving black market of foreign-made traditional cigarettes.

If very-low-nicotine traditional cigarettes prove attractive to tobacco consumers, the end result could be 22nd Century having a sharp increase in revenue and a potential buyout by a global tobacco manufacturer.

However, investors continue to take a cautious approach to 22nd Century even though it is the only tobacco manufacturer with retail-ready very-low-nicotine products.

"To meet anticipated demand for our VLN products, we are working with highly experienced U.S. tobacco growers to produce our largest ever VLN tobacco crop in 2022," Mish told analysts. "This crop includes the company's second-generation reduced nicotine tobacco plants."

Cannabis element

GVB, founded in 2016 and based in Las Vegas, is one of the largest providers of hemp-derived active ingredients involving CBD products for the pharmaceutical and consumer goods industries worldwide, based on total tonnage.

Mish said the integration is effectively completed ... We believe 22nd Century is now the most comprehensive vertically integrated supply chain in hemp/cannabis, offering distinct competitive advantages from plant genetics to finished white label goods on the shelf for consumers.

We expect our hemp/cannabis operations to be cash positive at the first quarter as a result of the investments we are making today.

22nd Century also had a $2.55 million benefit in the second quarter of fiscal 2021 from the gain on the Panacea investment conversion.

Mish said the Chicago test pilot with 150 Circle K convenience stores is exceeding expectations, driving us to accelerate and expand our launch plans.

Mish has said the manufacturer has gained regulatory clearances to launch its very low nicotine tobacco and menthol styled products in nine states: California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Mississippi, New York, Rhode Island and Texas.

The pilot and consumer studies have made clear that our approach focusing on awareness, education and trial is working with adult smokers, Mish said.

We are now testing specific offers designed to increase trial and repeat purchase among existing smokers looking to smoke less/reduce their nicotine consumption, while also expanding our presence in Chicago and in Illinois.

Mish said Colorado was chosen as the second test pilot primarily because the state offers a reduced taxation rate of $6.50 per carton for modified-risk tobacco authorized products. Michigan recently enacted a $5 per carton excise tax reduction.

That provides a favorable cost structure for our VLN products in that state, as compared with traditional premium cigarettes, Mish said.

The manufacturer is working closely with a major consumer packaged goods distributor and a long-standing specialty distributor covering convenience, grocery, and drug stores across the state, Mish said.

He said those potential distribution networks would give 22nd Century full access to a broad range of more than 3,000 targeted statewide potential points of sale.

In terms of GVB revenues, Mish said we are actively pursuing additional contracts in the industry to accelerate GVBs existing growth opportunities, while at the same time working to integrate our high-yield plant strains into GVBs supply chain, further enhancing the productivity and profitability of this franchise.

The Barclays projection that 22nd Century could reach up to $43 million in annual sales would be good news for its investors, said David Sweanor, an adjunct law professor at the University of Ottawa and the author of several e-cigarette and health studies.

However, Sweanor said the $43 million needs to be put into context given the U.S. traditional cigarette marketplace has about $60 billion in annual sales, according to Goldman Sachs analyst Bonnie Herzog.

22nd Century would be taking, in Barclays optimistic forecast, somewhere in the range of 1/1,500th of the market, with a product that only makes health sense if its customers soon stop using it, Sweanor said.
The Greensboro Police Department is not identifying the four officers who shot at a man Friday in the parking lot of a convenience store on Friday, killing him.

The State Bureau of Investigation said in a news release Monday that five law-enforcement officers shot at Alexander Dekontee Weah, 23 -- four Greensboro police officers and one Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer. Greensboro police have said only that it is conducting an internal investigation and that the officers involved were on administrative duty. The department did not identify the officers in a news release.

The SBI is investigating the shooting and has declined to identify the five officers.

The officers were part of a task force encompassing the Greensboro Police Department, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, Forsyth County Sheriff's Office and the SBI. The officers converged shortly after 8 a.m. Friday to serve a murder warrant on Weah. Weah was accused of killing 31-year-old James Michael Hinson in Charlotte on Aug. 3.

The Winston-Salem Journal made public records request for the names of the officers through the Greensboro Police Department and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. The requests were made through a web portal that both cities offered on their website.

Kurt Brenneman, the public information request tracking administrator for the Greensboro Police Department, said in an email that the department is not identifying the officers. He did not provide a reason for why the police department is not releasing the names. The police department is also not releasing any information about the officers' salary or information about whether the officers had previously been demoted or suspended.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has not responded to the Journal's request for information about its officer.

Under state law, certain information about law-enforcement officers is public, including names and salaries. Both the Winston-Salem Police Department and the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office routinely release the names and other information about officers involved in such shootings.

Greensboro police did release the name of the officer, Michael J. Ambrosio, who was injured during the shooting. Greensboro police have not said how Ambrosio was injured or whether he fired his weapon.

It is not clear whether he is one of the four officers who is on administrative duty.
In her 2018 bestselling book, Dopesick, journalist Beth Macy surgically exposed the manipulation, greed and horror of the opioid crisis as it unfolded in such hotspots as Central Appalachia and the Shenandoah Valley.

Universally praised, the book was turned into an eight-part series on Hulu that was recently nominated for 14 Emmys.

Hailed as Americas nonfiction laureate of the opioid crisis, Macy chronicles how the epidemic is playing out closer to home in her new book, Raising Lazarus: Hope, Justice and the Future of Americas Overdose Crisis. Macy will speak on Aug. 16 at Calvary Moravian Church, 600 Holly Ave., for the books national launch. Bookmarks is presenting the event.

Several major publications including The New York Times and Time magazine have called it among the most notable book releases in August.

As she did with Dopesick, Macy takes readers to communities ravaged by opioids, in this case, Hickory and Surry County.

By highlighting the in-the-trenches work of such folks as Mark Willis, Sonya Cheek, Wendy Odum and James Stroud, all Surry County residents, Macy hopes to cast a more hopeful light on the crisis, showing other communities that small steps  simply treating a drug user like a human being, for instance  can make a difference.

This is a book about how you make positive change, said Macy, who lives in Roanoke, Va., where she was a newspaper reporter for years. Most Americans dont think we can turn this around because all theyve seen is failures. Its observation bias. If we dont have a sense of hope, were (screwed).

It can be easy to feel hopeless. The number of people who died of a drug overdose in the United States soared to a record 108,000 in 2021, with more than 80,000 of those deaths involving opioids, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fueled by the highly potent fentanyl and the emotional toll of the pandemic, overdose deaths continue to rise at an alarming rate.

North Carolina is on pace to eclipse the number of overdose deaths after a record 3,961 people died in 2021, according to recent figures from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. In comparison, 2,554 died in 2018.

In the face of such grim figures, Macy said she needed to tell a more hopeful story after years spent researching and writing about opioids, mostly in Roanoke and Southwest Virginia, areas she knows well.

Bleak and unsparing, Dopesick showed how pharmaceutical companies, notably Purdue Pharma, strategically and ruthlessly flooded rural markets with the painkiller, OxyContin, a medication that Macy calls the taproot of the opioid crisis, and lied about its addictiveness while politicians looked away.

The depth of deception and despair made for a difficult but necessary read.

I promised my husband that I would stop writing about it, Macy said. But nothing else grabbed me. As I was speaking about it, I started hearing about innovative things.

At a panel discussion in Christiansburg, Va., Macy met the Rev. Michelle Mathis, executive director of Olive Branch Ministries, a faith-based harm reduction agency in Hickory.

Harm reduction is an approach that meets people where they are. In other words, it doesnt push treatment on people who arent ready for it. Instead, it helps people with substance use disorder take steps to lessen the harm of using opioids through such things as providing clean syringes to reduce infections and diseases and distributing Narcan, the opioid-reversal medication, to keep people from fatally overdosing.

Mathis talked to Macy about some of her harm-reduction efforts in conservative Hickory. In one case, a local crafting circle that didnt feel comfortable distributing clean needles agreed to crochet Narcan bags for drug users. The women, who call themselves The Old Hookers Club, even wove reflective thread into the bags so that users can see the bags in low-light drug houses, Macy wrote.

Through Mathis, Macy met Willis, then the newly hired director of the Surry County Substance Abuse Recovery office. A former Marine and DEA agent who moved to Surry County in 2010, Willis had cast a wide net in his efforts to learn the ins-and-outs of the local opioid crisis.

During lunch with Mathis and Willis at a restaurant in Mount Airy, Macy said her story spidey sense kicked in. Macy was already familiar with Mount Airy and its ties to the mythical town of Mayberry while reporting on her book Factory Man.

You have a former DEA agent trying to do things in a place that wants to appear wholesome, and he is going to try to convince them that there are other ways to view people with substance use disorders, and he wants to educate himself, too, Macy said. A good story is not neatly wrapped in a bow. Its about someone who is going to make change but with setbacks along the way.

Macy also spent time with Odum, who travels the county to give out clean syringes, food, hygiene products and hugs to users, through her organization, the Birches Foundation; and Sonya Cheek, a peer support specialist who works in Willis office.

A recovering opioid user, Cheek talks with people from across Surry County about her experiences and tries to connect them with treatment. She detoxed in the county jail in 2019 after a drug arrest and, a few months later, decided to use her experience to help others.

I heard my uncle tell my mother, Well, you might as well plan her funeral, Cheek said. But we can do things different. We absolutely can.

Over the course of three years of reporting, Macy took a hard look at Surry County, which at one point had one of the highest rates of fatal overdoses per capita in the nation. At one public meeting she attended, Macy heard a local civic leader suggesting that when drug users relapse, we should let em die and take their organs!

The book reports on the countys overcrowded jail and its lack of medication-assisted treatment (such as suboxone or methadone) for inmates; the refusal of local judges to start a drug treatment court; the lack of treatment options for the estimated 4,000 people in the county who have substance use disorder; and the struggle employers have finding workers who can pass a drug test.

By the end of her reporting, Macy saw some victories in the county  a transportation program to take drug users to treatment was in place and the new $45 million jail will now include space for drug counseling.

Despite a crisis that now feels entrenched, Macy said she challenges anyone to visit any of the programs she reports on in the book and not see a positive difference.

Its hokey to say the answer is love, but its something people have never felt. Its easy to other these folks, to look the other way, she said. But if we want to turn around our soaring deaths of despair, weve got to look at them.

Cheek was less than a year into her recovery when she started talking to Macy for the book. In that time, she has counseled countless drug users. On Aug. 12, she will join Macy to talk about opioids at a statewide gathering of county commissioners, a turn of events that left her shaking her head in disbelief.

She hopes people reading Macys new book will look at addiction through a more hopeful lens.

I want my recovery to be as loud as my addiction was, said Cheek, who keeps in touch with Macy regularly. I want to show people that recovery is possible.

As for Macy, she said she plans to attend the Emmy Awards in Los Angeles next month. While getting to hobnob with folks such as Michael Keaton, one of the stars of the Hulu series, was fun, shes not much interested in the world of celebrity.

Im much more interested in what people like Sonya and Wendy are doing, she said.
OMAHA -- When the company that became Enron skipped town en route to its corporate meltdown, executive Howard Hawks decided to remain in Omaha and start something new.

After co-founding Tenaska Energy in 1987, Hawks helped build an $18 billion company that now ranks among the largest privately held corporations of any kind in the United States.

Now after 35 years of executive leadership at Tenaska, Hawks is preparing to step down as company chairman. His move is also leading to a reshuffling at the top of Tenaska.

Current CEO Jerry Crouse will transition into the role of chairman of the board, taking over at the end of the year. And Chris Leitner, currently president of a Tenaska group focused on strategy and acquisitions, will succeed Crouse as president and CEO.

Hawks, who recently turned 87, said the changes have been in the works as part of its long-term succession plan. He had previously stepped down as CEO in 2010.

Hawks said he plans to remain actively engaged and involved with the company as both a member of the board and chairman emeritus, helping guide the companys overall direction and management.

I have a major stake in this company, and I plan to continue tending to it, he said. I have worked with Jerry and Chris for many years, and we are aligned in our understanding of Tenaskas mission, goals and strategy.

In 1985, Omaha-based natural gas company InterNorth acquired a Texas-based power company, then moved its headquarters to Houston and became Enron. But Hawks and five other former InterNorth executives decided to stay in Omaha to start a new energy company.

In 1987, they launched Tenaska, with Hawks as chairman and CEO. Hawks team set out to use their combined experience and contacts in the private energy field.

Enron eventually collapsed under a corporate scandal that sent some of its executives to prison. But Tenaska thrived.

Over the past 35 years, it has developed expertise in power plant development and operation, including renewables; buying and selling electricity, natural gas and biofuels; finding, producing and delivering natural gas; and putting together billion-dollar energy deals.

The private energy companys profile is relatively low in its home state. Since Nebraskas power is provided by publicly owned utilities, most of Tenaskas plants are elsewhere.

But Tenaska, which has 700 employees, currently ranks 53rd on Forbes list of Americas largest privately held companies. Its also the nations No. 2 marketer of natural gas.

Hawks was selected as the first independent power representative on the board of the North American Electric Reliability Corp. and is a member of both the Omaha Business Hall of Fame and Nebraska Business Hall of Fame.

In addition to his leadership of Tenaska, Hawks served for 18 years on the University of Nebraska Board of Regents before deciding not to seek election to a fourth term two years ago.

A native of Bruning, Nebraska, Hawks said the leadership changes at Tenaska will also free up more time for philanthropic interests important to him and his wife, Rhonda. That includes ongoing efforts to raise $60 million for an outpatient mental health treatment facility in Omaha.

Hawks also has served on the boards of Creighton University, Joslyn Art Museum, the Omaha zoo, Boys & Girls Club of Omaha, the Greater Omaha Chamber, Methodist Hospital, Heritage Omaha, the Omaha Symphony and Opera Omaha.

Crouse joined Tenaska in 1991. Prior to taking over as CEO, he served as chief financial officer.

(Crouse) has played an integral role in driving growth and innovation in our business, and I look forward to his next chapter as chairman, Hawks said.

Leitner joined Tenaska in 2003 as an executive responsible for investing capital and managing energy-related assets. Crouse said Leitner is an innovator who understands Tenaskas history and culture.

He is the right leader at the right time to help navigate our company through an increasingly complex and changing energy landscape, Crouse said.
OMAHA -- As Nebraskans prepare to start a new school year, new COVID-19 cases are running at almost double the rate they have been the past two years.

Nebraska recorded 3,726 new cases last week, down slightly from 4,120 the previous week and roughly flat compared to two weeks ago, according to federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data for the week ending Friday. Cases in the state have generally been running between 3,000 and 4,000 cases for the past nine weeks.

However, as the state prepares to open schools for the third time since the start of the pandemic, cases are well above where they were each of the past two years. Nebraska recorded roughly 2,000 cases per week during the first week of August in both 2020 and 2021.

In both of those years, cases rose rapidly after classes resumed.

Students in Lincoln Public Schools return to class on Monday or Tuesday, depending on their grade level.

According to the CDC, everyone 5 years and older is eligible for one booster in addition to their primary series of vaccines. Those 50 and older and people with compromised immune systems are eligible for two boosters.

In the U.S., only 60% of the 12-17 population is vaccinated and only 30% of 5- to 11-year-olds have gotten their shots.

Nebraska ranks below average in child vaccinations against COVID, with 56% of those ages 12-17 and 29% of those 5-11 fully vaccinated.

The best states for child vaccinations  Vermont, Rhode Island and Massachusetts  each is above 50% for younger children and above 80% for older children.

Nebraska Education Commissioner Matt Blomstedt said last month that local school officials should be prepared for some kind of COVID wave this fall.

The protocols and procedures that schools should follow, he said, consist primarily of nonpharmaceutical measures, such as washing hands and staying home when sick.

He said he does not anticipate a return to mask mandates, although individual school districts may ask people to exercise additional precautions, depending on local spread of the virus.

Nationally, cases are falling, down 19% from last week. Only 12 states recorded rising numbers in the past week, among them Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota.

Hospitalization numbers also are flattening in Nebraska. The daily average of 206 Nebraskans hospitalized for COVID-19 last week was unchanged from the prior week.

Nebraska recorded four more COVID deaths last week, bringing the total for the pandemic to 3,493. Nearly 520,000 COVID cases have been recorded in the state since the pandemic began.
To prosecutors, Deontae Rush was a man who stormed in to rob a Lincoln man of marijuana and killed him in the process. To the defense, he was a fall guy, framed by James Shekie's real killer.

"Ladies and gentlemen, this is a murder case," Deputy Lancaster County Attorney Eric Miller said in opening statements Monday. "This is a case where Mr. Rush went into somebody's house, kicked the door open, encountered him in the bedroom, back against the wall, and he shot at him three times, hit him once and he killed him."

He said early Feb. 23, 2021, Rush kicked in the back door to Shekie's mobile home at Mark IV Estates near 20th and Superior streets to rob him of 4 pounds of marijuana, then fired off three rounds, hitting Shekie in the torso and leaving him to die.

Defense attorney Jeff Pickens pointed the finger at Marquis Moten, who is accused of conspiring with his sister, Anna Feilen, to commit the robbery.

Attacking the state's assertion that Moten is paralyzed from the waist down, Pickens told jurors that inmates at the Lancaster County Jail say they've seen him get up and walk and that he told them he was the one who shot Shekie.

"And he got away with it because he's in a wheelchair," Pickens said.

Pickens said Rush was a "sacrificial lamb," framed because Moten had Rush's cellphone with him at the time.

Miller said a shoe print left on the door to Shekie's trailer ties Rush to the crime, in addition to his cellphone pinging off a nearby tower.

Rush faces charges of first-degree murder and use of a firearm to commit a felony for Shekie's killing, discovered the morning of March 1 after a neighbor called police to check on him because his door was wide-open on a chilly day with snow on the ground.

Police arrived to find it had been kicked in.

Body-worn camera footage shows the officers going in to find Shekie dead in the hallway.

He'd been shot six days earlier.

Miller said investigators learned siblings Moten and Feilen, a teenager who had lived with Shekie briefly, talked about stealing the marijuana she'd seen in his trailer.

Early Feb. 23, 2021, Moten and another man, allegedly Rush, came to Lincoln from Omaha, met up with Feilen, then drove to Shekie's place. The siblings would later tell police Rush went in alone and they drove away when they heard gunfire.

"They both indicate they were involved in this robbery. That they were going to get this marijuana from Mr. Shekie. They also indicated that killing Mr. Shekie wasn't really part of the plan," Miller said.

On March 4, 2021, police arrested Moten and Feilen after a search of Feilen's phone showed a Facebook Messenger conversation between them about the plan to rob Shekie.

Four days later, Rush was arrested in Chicago.

Pickens said the defense was going to be that Feilen hated Shekie and she also hated Rush because both men had kicked her out. He suggested a third person was involved. Just hours before Shekie was shot, he said, Moten messaged someone who went by Ermac (the name of a Mortal Kombat character) talking about a "sting on deck," and used an emoji to ask if he had any peppers, allegedly a veiled reference to guns.

He said cellphone records show Moten was the one flashing guns in selfies, not Rush, and he'd allegedly told his sister he wanted the marijuana however he had to get it.

Feilen and Moten are expected to enter pleas to conspiracy charges in a deal with prosecutors.
Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat), the UAEs flagship satellite solutions provider, has seen first-half (H1) net income soar 50.7% to AED167 million ($45 million) year-on-year, driving a strong net margin of 22.1%.

Underpinned by double-digit growth in Managed Solutions and Mobility Solutions, Yahsat posted record H1 revenue of AED755 million, up 8.1% year-on-year.

Adjusted EBITDA was AED448 million, up 5.3% year-on-year, delivering a robust margin of 59.3%.

Future revenue

Contracted future revenue is more than AED7.7 billion, equivalent to 5.2 times FY2021 annual revenue.

The companys strong financial position and high visibility on future cash flows underpin its ability to invest in growth and sustain an attractive dividend policy.

It is on track to grow FY2022 dividend by at least 2% to 16.12 fils [$4.39 cents] per share or AED393 million, split into two equal installments payable around October 2022 and May 2023.

The lower end of FY2022 revenue guidance increased to AED1.54 billion from AED1.52 billion; all other guidance remain unchanged.

Bright second quarter

Yahsats growth momentum continued in Q22022 with revenue of AED392 million, an increase of 6.9% year-on-year. This resulted in H122 revenue growth of 8.1% year-on-year to AED755 million. Both Managed Solutions and Mobility Solutions performed exceptionally well with H122 revenues increasing by 35.1% and 24.1% respectively.

Q222 Adjusted EBITDA of AED235 million increased by 3.9% year-on-year, generating a healthy margin of 59.8%, while net income (profit attributable to the shareholders) of AED93 million increased by 77.9% year-on-year. On a year-to-date basis, the group recorded H122 Adjusted EBITDA growth of 5.3% and an increase in net income of 50.7%, resulting in a solid net income margin of 22.1%.

As of June 30, 2022, the groups contracted future revenue remained strong at more than AED7.7 billion [$2.1 billion], equivalent to around 5.2 times FY2021 annual revenue representing an increase of 4.1% since the start of the financial year, underpinned by the 5-year AED909 million [$247 million] managed services mandate awarded by the UAE Government in February 2022.

Highest first half revenue

Musabbeh Al Kaabi, Chairman of Yahsat, commented: Against a backdrop of challenging global economic headwinds, we are delighted to record our highest ever first-half revenue whilst significantly growing Adjusted EBITDA and net income. This reflects the strength of our business underpinned by strong contracted future revenue and positive momentum across operating segments. In light of our strong year-to-date performance, the Board of Directors confidence in future cash flow generation, ability to grow the business and financial strength of the company, we are reiterating our commitment to deliver attractive shareholder returns.

Ali Al Hashemi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Yahsat, commented: Yahsat has delivered exceptional results, recording its highest-ever first half revenue and demonstrating our performance-driven culture to deploy innovative capabilities and grow the business. Our contracted future revenue exceeds AED7.7 billion, equivalent to 5.2 times FY2021 annual revenue. Looking ahead, we remain on track to bring into commercial service our Next Generation Satellite, Thuraya 4-NGS, in the second half of 2024 whilst two new satellites, Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5, are under consideration for launch in 2026. We remain very confident in both our short-term and long-term outlook, and have accordingly increased the lower end of our revenue guidance for FY2022, whilst reiterating our commitment to pay a progressive dividend.

We remain committed to pursuing and launching new growth opportunities across the business and we are confident that Yahsats robust balance sheet, business resilience and track record in delivering exceptional results will enable us to capture significant value to drive long-term growth.

Attractive dividend outlook

Yahsat reiterates its commitment to grow its dividend by at least 2% per year, reflecting the Board of Directors confidence in the cash flow generation and overall financial strength of the business. For financial year 2022, the total expected dividend is a minimum of 16.12 fils per share [US Cents 4.39], split into two equal instalments payable around October 2022 and May 2023 respectively. This represents a total dividend payment of AED393 million. The companys dividend policy is well supported by its high cash conversion (93.1% in H122), robust balance sheet (0.9x Net Debt/EBITDA as at June 30, 2022) and a strong discretionary free cash flow (expected to be approximately two times FY2022 dividend payment).

Increasing minimum revenue guidance

In view of the strong H122 performance and considering that approximately 90% of the remaining projected revenue for FY2022 is already secured (based on the low end of its revenue guidance), Yahsat has decided to narrow the range of its FY2022 guidance provided on 1 March 2022.

The company now raises its projected 2022 revenues to at least AED1.54 billion with the upper end of the range unchanged at AED1.62 billion. All other guidance remain unchanged.

Senior management appointment

On July 1, 2022 (a post-period event), Yahsat announced the appointment of Sulaiman Al Ali as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). Al Ali has assumed the role having been with Yahsat for eight years, previously serving as a Director of Yahsat Government Solutions and later as CEO of Thuraya, where he has been instrumental in driving operational excellence and delivering new and innovative solutions for customers, establishing a platform for strong future growth. In his new role, Al Ali will lead both YahClick, Yahsats Data Solutions arm, and Thuraya, with a mandate to drive synergies and growth across these commercial businesses, creating value for customers and partners. He takes over from Farhad Khan, who spent six years in the role and was a key player in the expansion of the YahClick business in new and existing markets.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure accounted for approximately 55% of group revenue in Q222, mainly comprising a 15-year long-term Capacity Services Agreement with the UAE Government. Overall revenue remained broadly stable at AED218 million. The Infrastructure business offers strong visibility on future cash flows with contracted future revenue of approximately AED6.5 billion as of June 30, 2022, which includes a 15-year T4-NGS Capacity Service Agreement worth AED2.6 billion that will support revenue growth from 2024 onwards. Yahsat remains well-positioned to further grow its Infrastructure business with two potential new satellites under consideration (Al Yah 4 and Al Yah 5), targeted for launch in 2026.

Managed Solutions

Managed Solutions, which contributed approximately 22% of Group revenue, continued its strong performance with Q222 revenues increasing by 41.4%, resulting in H122 revenue of AED144 million, an increase of 35.1% year-on-year. This was underpinned by the February 2022 award of a 5-year mandate worth AED909 million focused on providing enhanced managed services to the UAE Government for its satellite communication capabilities, effective from January 2022. During the H122 period, AED86 million of this award was recognised. In Q222, the business continued to build its contracted future revenues with the award of other contracts including a mandate to design and deliver advanced satellite communications for UAE Government platforms worth AED28 million. Management expects the strong momentum in the Managed Solutions business to continue in the second half of 2022.

Mobility Solutions

Mobility Solutions, accounting for approximately 17% of Group revenue, had another excellent quarter with Q222 revenues up 7.8% year-on-year. H122 revenues exceeded the prior year by 24.1% with strong growth in both service and equipment revenue. Service revenue increased by 6.5% with double digit increases across several parts of the business including Voice, Data and Intercarrier. Meanwhile, equipment revenue, which increased by 95%, continued to benefit from the three-year AED316 million distribution agreement secured in 2021.

Data Solutions

YahClick, which accounted for approximately 5% of Group revenue, saw year-on-year revenue slightly down by 4.4% in H122, mainly due to the wind-down in July 2021 of a multi-year, opportunistic capacity deal that contributed AED8 million of revenue in H121. The business continued to build strong foundations for future growth with the subscriber base in the Consumer Broadband business growing by 11% year-to-date and by 24% compared to the same period last year, underpinned by expansion across the Africa region. In addition, it concluded an agreement to connect schools across Zimbabwe, rolled out several cellular backhaul projects and signed a number of new managed network service orders.

Balance Sheet & Cashflow

The groups balance sheet remained robust. At June 30, 2022, net debt stood at AED812 million with a leverage ratio (Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA) of 0.9x. Together with Discretionary Free Cash Flow for the period of AED224 million and a cash conversion ratio of 93.1%, the group is well positioned to meet its growth and capital expenditure commitments and to sustain its attractive dividend policy.-- TradeArabia News Service
SCOTTSBLUFF -- A Scottsbluff man arrested as a suspect in a shooting had been involved in a contentious divorce involving custody disputes and protection orders, according to court documents.

Scottsbluff Police arrested Alexander J. Maldonado, 35, of Gering, in connection to a shooting Thursday in a Scottsbluff parking lot, according to information released by Capt. Lance Kite.

Police and paramedics were called to the Main Street Market parking lot around 4:57 p.m. Thursday. They found a man, identified as Martin Maldonado Jr., 34, with a single gunshot to the abdomen. He was transported to Regional West Medical Center for treatment.

Police arrested Alexander Maldonado on suspicion of attempted murder, use of a firearm to commit a felony, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, protection order violation and discharge of a firearm within city limits. He is being held at the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center.

Martin Maldonado Jr. is an officer at the Wyoming Medium Correctional Institution in Torrington. According to the Wyoming Department of Corrections, he remains hospitalized.

Court records filed in Scotts Bluff County Court indicate that Alexander Maldonado and his estranged wife have been involved in a contentious divorce since May 2020 and custody issues were scheduled to be heard during trial this month. According to court records, subpoenas were issued to several individuals in the case Thursday, as a trial had been scheduled for Aug. 22.

In June, Alexander Maldonados estranged wife filed a protection order on behalf of herself and a minor child. A hearing on the protection order occurred Wednesday, and court records noted that Alexander Maldonado and the woman had agreed to a four-hour weekly, supervised visitation with his child. The case had been continued for hearing later this month.

The woman says in the filing that she is dating Martin Maldonado Jr. and cited specific incidents involving Alexander Maldonado that she said made her fear for her safety and well-being, as well as for her child. Martin Maldonado Jr. had also filed a harassment protection order against Alexander Maldonado in September 2021, alleging Alexander Maldonado had assaulted him on one occasion, which resulted in criminal charges.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa  A former Nebraska teacher who propositioned a 14-year-old girl for sex has pleaded not guilty.

Andrew Heller, 38, of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, entered his written plea last week in Woodbury County District Court to charges of enticing away a minor and prostitution.

At the time of his arrest, Heller was a social studies teacher at Wynot Public Schools. His photo and name no longer appear on the school district's website. School authorities could not be reached to confirm his employment status.

According to court documents, FBI investigators had been monitoring communications between Heller and the 14-year-old, in which Heller asked her for sex and offered her $200.

When Heller was arrested July 14, authorities found alcoholic beverages meant to be shared with the girl, a box of condoms and more than $200 in cash. During an interview with authorities after his arrest, Heller admitted he knew the girl was 14 and said he had intended to pay her for sex.
A federal judge has ruled that a lawsuit can go forward against the city of Wymore and its Emergency Medical Services department on three former workers' claims of gender-based discrimination, sexual harassment and retaliation.

Rylee Meints, Blake Pesetsky and Matthew Mittan say that between 2015 and 2020 they experienced or witnessed sexual harassment, then suffered retaliation after complaining about it.

Two allege they were terminated wrongfully after reporting the harassment and one left the department over the conditions, according to the lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court last year.

Tara Stingley, an attorney for the city, had argued the case should be dismissed because the three were volunteer members of Wymore EMS and not city employees.

Wymore, a town of about 1,300 people south of Beatrice, provides a 24-hour ambulance service, paying its volunteers per call.

In an order last week, U.S. District Judge John Gerrard said for purposes of the motion to dismiss he must assume the allegations true. And the former workers said they were employees.

Stingley also argued that those named in the lawsuit, including Wymore EMS president Jeff Argo, Rescue Chief Shawna Schwartz, Darren Allington, a former supervisor, and Milton Pike, the mayor, all should be dismissed because the right to be free from transgender and sexual orientation discrimination wasn't clearly established.

Gerrard said it is true that in the years prior to the alleged conduct there had been a shift in the law away from criminalizing same-sex conduct and marginalizing the rights of those who don't conform to traditional sexual stereotypes.

"That doesn't, however, give this court leave to find that a freestanding constitutional right that has not been recognized by the Supreme Court or the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals was, nonetheless, clearly established," he wrote.

Gerrard said he didn't find a controlling case, or even a "robust consensus of persuasive authority, holding that discrimination based on an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity violated such person's constitutional rights."

However, he said, the conduct alleged here  which included frequent comments of a sexual nature, a supervisor propositioning for sexual favors and exposing his genitals  was the type ordinarily seen in sexual harassment claims where gender identity or conformity is not an issue.

He said what Allington and Schwartz were alleged to have said and done would qualify as sexual harassment without respect to the victim's gender identity, and the victims sufficiently alleged it created a hostile work environment.

Stingley argued the alleged conduct wasn't sufficiently severe or pervasive. For instance, there was no physical contact alleged.

But the judge said the allegations included one supervisor asking repeatedly for oral sex, making graphic and vulgar references to female anatomy, and exposing himself in the workplace; and another supervisor continually asking one of the workers about his sexual practices and preferences, and others in the workplace about his sexual preferences.

"These allegations, presumed to be true, show conduct that was not merely rude or unpleasant, but conduct that is objectively, as well as subjectively to the plaintiffs, offensive, extreme, severe and pervasive," Gerrard said.

The plaintiffs alleged that top decision-makers for the city and Wymore EMS were directly involved in the unlawful conduct.

"These allegations give rise to an inference that this culture is a policy decision made by one or more of the individual defendants whose edicts or acts may fairly be said to represent official policy," the judge said.

He said who had the final decision-making authority is a matter to be sorted out in discovery.

In response to the ruling, the attorney for the three, Vince Powers, said: My clients just wanted to help people in their community. They did not want to be treated that way.

In the lawsuit, he alleged Pesetsky's supervisors singled him out, demanding that he disclose to patients that he is transgender and was born a woman and ultimately refusing to allow him to treat patients by himself. When he reported it to city managers, they allegedly encouraged other employees not to trust him or back him up and made physical threats against him.

Powers said city managers and supervisors who witnessed the sexual harassment of Pesetsky and others laughed, rather than take remedial action.

Meints alleges Allendale, one of her supervisors who no longer works at Wymore EMS, made verbal and written requests to her for sexual favors and sexually harassed her co-worker Pesetsky. Shortly after she went to Schwartz and the mayor to report it, she was suspended, then terminated.

Mittan, whom Powers described as a gay man with nonconforming gender/sex appearance, actions and behavior, alleges he was continually subjected to sexual comments that interfered with his ability to do the work in the nearly five years he worked there.

When he opposed or reported it, officials retaliated against him, Powers alleges.

The three are seeking a jury trial and compensation for their lost pay and benefits, as well as reinstatement to their positions or front pay.
RACINE  On the afternoon of Tuesday, Aug. 2, about 40 protesters chanted outside the Racine County Law Enforcement Center in Downtown Racine, demanding access to the vote be expanded rather than limited.

At the end of the demonstration, one of the organizers, Calena Roberts, pointed to what looked like a postbox painted yellow with the words TRAFFIC PAYMENTS emblazoned on it.

These folks got a drop box for traffic tickets, Roberts called out, enraged that the government is still allowing residents to deliver their money but not their votes through drop boxes.

Drop boxes are still used in Wisconsin. Just, not for elections.

Still in use, for certain things

All over Wisconsin, drop boxes continue to be treated as a secure way for members of the public to deliver important documents to the government, even though they are not explicitly authorized under state law.

You can pay your taxes via drop box. Applications for engineering permits can be delivered via drop box. Library books are often returned in drop boxes. Traffic tickets can be paid through a drop box.

You just cant vote that way, not since the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled July 8 that drop boxes are not a legal collection place for absentee ballots.

Like with the absentee ballot drop boxes used in the 2020 election statewide, other drop boxes  in place for decades  are not manned 24/7.

A few local examples:

During tax season, theres a 24-hour drop box outside the Racine County Courthouse where you can drop off your tax paperwork. Also for taxes, theres a red drop box on the west side of City Hall for City of Racine residents to pay their taxes, too. Burlingtons City Hall

also has a drop box along Jefferson Street.

Theres a drop box outside the Racine County Law Enforcement Center, 717 Wisconsin Ave., for the payment of traffic tickets.

At Caledonia Village Hall, which is usually empty outside of normal business hours, you could drop off an application for a permit anytime.

During the 2020 election, there were absentee ballot drop boxes set up at numerous spots around more than 240 municipalities across Wisconsin  in areas won by Donald Trump and Joe Biden alike  but that is not being done any longer.

Drop boxes have been used for voting for about 20 years in a handful of other states. But in at least seven states  Hawaii, Minnesota, California, Ohio, Maryland, New Jersey and Maine  legislatures have explicitly created laws allowing drop boxes, something Wisconsins elected officials have never done.

The law

The July 8 Supreme Court ruling, which came in a 4-3 decision by conservative-backed justices outvoting liberal-backed justices, was based on an argument raised by conservatives that Wisconsin law does not explicitly allow absentee ballots to be delivered via drop boxes.

The Legislature has never created laws allowing drop boxes. But the Wisconsin Elections Commission, in summer 2020 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, advised clerks statewide they could be used; WEC later removed its drop box guidance following the Supreme Court decision.

Nothing in the statutory language detailing the procedures by which absentee ballots may be cast mentions drop boxes or anything like them, Justice Rebecca Bradley wrote in the majority opinion.

A closer look shows that Wisconsin law does not explicitly allow drop boxes in any context.

In Wisconsin law, the term drop boxes does not appear anywhere  not regarding elections, and not regarding paying taxes or returning library books either.

The term drop box is not used in the Wisconsin Statutes with respect to returning absentee ballots. We are not aware of the use of the term drop box  or a synonymous term  in other contexts in the statutes, Staci Duros, a senior legislative analyst with the Wisconsin Legislative Reference Bureau, said in an email.

How to vote absentee After requesting and receiving an absentee ballot by mail, there are currently three legally accepted ways to return it: Mail it back, although voters are advised to make sure it is mailed at least a week prior to Election Day to make sure it is counted. Deliver it to the clerk's office by hand. Bring it to your assigned polling place on Election Day.

No challenges

The use of drop boxes for the purposes of paying taxes and citations has been universally accepted and remains legally unchallenged. But the use of drop boxes for absentee voting began coming under heavy scrutiny surrounding the 2020 election, as supporters of Trump claimed they could be used to illegally vote. There have been zero identified cases of that happening anywhere in the country.

A focus for those seeking to decertify

Those still seeking to decertify the 2020 presidential election argue that the use of drop boxes should negate the election results, since the Supreme Court ruled voting via drop box isnt legal and thus those who voted that way should not have their votes counted. There is no way of knowing how many drop box votes were for Trump and how many went to Biden.

State Rep. Janel Brandtjen, a Menomonee Falls Republican at the center of efforts to decertify, said in a phone interview last week that she cannot claim whether Trump or Biden won Wisconsin in 2020  although she continues to support Trump, including in person at his rally in Waukesha Friday, where the former president again baselessly claimed he did win the 2020 election despite there being no evidence that the votes he received outnumbered those cast in favor of Biden.

One of the primary points Brandtjen and others have repeatedly raised, as the basis for assertions that 2020 should be decertified, is the alleged extralegal use of drop boxes. Brandtjen also argued that decertification is not the same thing as overturning the election.

I dont know how it (decertifying) is overturning if were saying (regarding) the election outcome: We cannot determine who the electors went to, Brandtjen said. There has got to be an asterisk here, forever, on the 2020 election.

Ann Jacobs, a Democratic appointee to the Wisconsin Elections Commission, said no one has ever complained about drop boxes for anything else other than voting. Nobody complained about drop boxes until Donald Trump lost.

Jacobs, in a phone interview Monday morning, noted the Postal Service often will move mail from all corners of Wisconsin to Minnesota or Milwaukee to be sorted before it is sent back to the community the letter or package originated in. That provides ample opportunity for a letter, or a vote, to be lost.

According to USPS, approximately 20% of all pieces of mail are delivered late; theres no reliable data on how much mail is lost, although most estimates put it between half-a-percent and 3% of all pieces of mail.

Drop boxes, on the other hand, allow for absentee ballots to never leave the county the voter resides in.
If Michael Gableman is now an embarrassment to the state and may soon be fired, as Assembly Speaker Robin Vos said Tuesday, Democrats and other progressives are wondering why he wasnt fired months ago.
RACINE  The citys Finance & Personnel Committee is interested in hearing Racines thoughts regarding abortion.

The committee voted Monday to recommend the City Council put an advisory referendum on the Nov. 8 ballot asking voters whether the state should repeal the 1849 law that makes abortion illegal in Wisconsin without almost no exceptions.

The Racine City Council is expected to vote on the matter Aug. 16.

The referendum would be non-binding. It only seeks to get a sense of what the public supports.

This could be the second referendum on city ballots this fall. The City Council last month approved asking voters if they believe marijuana should be legalized in Wisconsin.

The proposal was made by Alderman Natalia Taft. It was co-sponsored by Mayor Cory Mason and Alderman John Tate II, president of the council.

Many of us are outraged, appalled and are mourning the loss of our reproductive rights, Taft said, referring to the June 24 Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, which had required all states to allow some abortions. The June 24 ruling created a scenario where whether abortion is legal, and the degree to which it is legal, varies from state to state.

As Taft noted, the 1849 law banning abortion in Wisconsin became enforced again before women alive today had the right to vote and a voice in the process.

In my conversations with community members on this issue, what I hear over and over again is that people want to have a voice, she said. Currently, folks dont feel like they can have a voice.

There are other Wisconsin communities considering similar referendums.

The Dane County Board of Supervisors voted to put the issue on the ballot while the Milwaukee County Board of Supervisors declined.

Advisory

Polling has consistently showed that a majority of Wisconsinites support reproductive freedoms and legalized access to abortion.

A poll conducted by Marquette University Law School in June showed that statewide, 27% of those surveyed believed abortion should be legal in all cases while just 11% believed it should be illegal in all cases. The poll also showed that 31% believed abortion should be legal in most cases while 24% of those surveyed believed it should be illegal in most cases.

The law passed in 1849 makes abortion illegal in Wisconsin  even in cases of rape and incest. The only exception is if two physicians concur that the life of the mother is in danger unless an abortion is performed.

Abortion providers and advocates say that exception is too stringent and still puts mothers lives at risk, since medical professionals now have to consider if a pregnant persons life is in enough danger for the abortion to be considered legal.
RACINE  Jessica Diaz came to the United States when she was 6 years old. She has never left.

Her family came to Kenosha from Palmar Chico, a small town in Mexico, to work in the cabbage fields.

On Wednesday, 30 years after her arrival, Diaz fulfilled a decade-long journey. She became a U.S. citizen, just in time to do something she had wanted to do for years: vote.

Today, Tuesday, Aug. 9, she plans to cast a ballot for the very first time.

While she has been working on her citizenship, Diaz never stopped working to improve the lives of people like her in the Racine areas Hispanic community. Diaz is the vice president of the Racine Interfaith Coalition, a nonprofit organization that works to inspire and mobilize faith-based congregations to social justice. But since she was not a legal citizen yet, Diaz had to approach different aspects of polling and voting from different angles, having to opt out of things like nomination signatures and the actual act of voting.

That is how she began canvassing.

To me, voting is very important, Diaz said, We like to complain a lot about our local government, we like to complain a lot about how things dont really work out. I tell people Why dont you ask questions? Why dont you go out and vote? If youre worried about your health care, reach out.

After moving to Racine 17 years ago, Diaz became active in nonpartisan canvassing, urging people to go out and vote more.

Since her youngest son was 6 years old, the same age his mother was when she came to the U.S., he would come along with her while she canvassed during the first campaign of Racine Mayor Cory Mason in 2017.

I brought him (her son) along to the campaign because it was so important to me. This is our mayor and our city, so I taught my son how to canvas, Diaz said. He loves it. He would run up to doors and knock on them and talk to voters.

More votes for others

Diaz believes that every U.S. citizen should have the right to vote and that taking it away from felons is wrong. She has worked with EX-Incarcerated Peoples Organizings Unlock The Vote! campaign, an effort aimed to return the voting rights to people with felony convictions.

Being someone from a different country, I just couldnt believe that they could take your rights like that, where if you go to prison and on are extended supervision you couldnt vote, Diaz said. I just couldnt understand the logic behind it ... thats not right. How is it you go to prison, pay your dues and lose your citizenship status? You kind of get dehumanized. Its just so weird to me.

This election season, Diaz worked as the co-chair of WISDOMs Statewide Immigration Task Force while she was also prepping for her big day.

After about 10 years, that big day came. According to Diaz, her citizenship ceremony felt like a drive-thru.

Diaz had her citizenship ceremony at the Milwaukee Field Office of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services agency. In 15 minutes, a group of 10 people were brought into a room where they handed in their paperwork, were sworn in, welcomed to the United States, asked to read a statement, got a picture taken and were sent out for the next group to be sent in.

In 15 minutes, her 10-year journey had come to an end.

Becoming a citizen is not easy

A common misconception about the process of immigration is that it takes a very short time and is a simple process to go through. These misconceptions are something that Diaz hears often.

Its really frustrating when you hear people say why didnt they do it the right way? or Why didnt they apply? Just for my citizenship application alone, it took 13 months for me to get my first interview  that took 13 months to get scheduled, Diaz said. After my interview, I still waited another two-and-a-half weeks to be sworn in.

Its a long, complicated process, and right now with the pandemic, everything is taking a lot longer. Theres such a backlog and such a broken system. Its kind of hard to explain, but its very complex and delayed. Everything is delayed, delayed, delayed.

A 2019 report from the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank, states Since 1991, when the current quotas went into effect, time spent waiting to apply for a green card (i.e., legal permanent residence) has doubled for applicants immigrating through the familysponsored and employmentbased quota categories  from an average of 2 years and 10 months to 5 years and 8 months. As of 2018, the entire U.S. immigration wait list was more than 4.7 million files long, and theres a backlog of more than 1.2 million green card applicants from Mexico.

Unless there are substantial reforms, the average wait time for a Mexican national applying for a U.S. green card is expected to be well over 30 years; in 2018, the wait time was around 21 years. The cases of Mexicans who applied for green cards that were getting approved in 2021 were usually applied for around 1999.

Diazs fight for her citizenship might be over, but for others that are in the position she is in, there is still so much left to get through. She works at Cabranes Durkin & Longdin Law Offices, 840 Lake Ave. Suite 100, Racine. The firm represents clients who are going through the immigration and citizenship process.

I tell people all the time: my process may be ended, but I still have a lot of people close to me who are waiting for their opportunity to even start, Diaz said. I have many people around me in my community, and its just hard to see.

Diaz finds that Americans discussing immigration policy often overlook the struggles faced by undocumented children brought into the country by their parents. At multiple points in the last decade in the Racine area, she remembers hearing about children who were openly worried that their parents would not come home that night because they might be deported.

When people really talk about (immigration)  we dont think about those kids, that group of kids that have those collateral effects. Its hard for them, too, Diaz said. So when we like to attack and say, Why are they here in the first place? or Why dont they do it the right way? we need to think about that future of kids that have to worry about something they shouldnt have to worry about.

As a student at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, Diaz remembers one classmate joked that he was going to get Diaz deported; another classmate said they believed those without citizenship are not human.

People actually think like that, Diaz said.

Now a citizen, Diaz next plans to go to law school  after her sons finish school themselves.
1. Yes. The new high school has made it a must. Thousands of people are impacted..

2. Yes. Even if it means revising some budgets, these entities must move on the project.

3. No. Its been known for years that the road was a problem.. Why the urgency now?

4. No. If prioritizing the road means more taxes, forget it. The project will just have to wait.

5. Unsure. Its hard to say until school has been in session for a few months.

Vote

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The Saudi Ministry of Finance and the Financial Sector Conference have joined forces with Euromoney to host the first in-person Euromoney Saudi Arabia Conference since 2019.



Taking place on September 7 in Riyadh, the event will be focused on The Institutionalisation of Investment and Finance.



Held under the patronage of Mohammed Al-Jadaan, the Minister of Finance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the conference has been launched to bring Saudi and international industry experts, thought-leaders, and policy makers to discuss the latest trends in regional and global financial markets.



With Saudi Arabia now recognized as a burgeoning global hub of innovation and investment, the event provides a unique platform and timely opportunity to explore the Kingdoms road to recovery  in the wake of Covid-19  new economic initiatives and their impact on the country, wider region and world.



Steered by Saudi Vision 2030  an ambitious blueprint for economic and social reform  the Kingdom has set about bolstering its prospects by transforming the national economy. As part of this commitment, Vision 2030 aims to create an environment that unlocks business opportunities, broadens the countrys economic base, and creates jobs for all Saudis. The Kingdom has already made significant progress towards accomplishing these goals, leveraging its unique location and potential to attract more international talent and global investment.



This years Euromoney Conference will spotlight these developments and map out further steps that can be taken to fully realise the Kingdoms potential. The opening keynote address will be delivered by Mohammed Al-Jadaan, who will be joined by an impressive line-up of distinguished local and international speakers.



The lead sponsors of the conference are Citi; Dar Al Arkan Real Estate Development; Gulf International Bank; Riyad Bank; Standard Chartered and The Financial Academy. The Capital Market Authority is the event Supporting Body. Real estate advisory services will be provided by Colliers.



The conferences co-sponsors are Alkhair Capital; BLOMInvest; Kamco Invest and Saudi Real Estate Refinance Company. Knight Frank has been announced as the events knowledge partner, Derayah Financial is an associate sponsor and Argaam as its digital sponsor. Sidra Capital will serve as an exhibitor.  TradeArabia News Service
KEARNEY  Representatives of businesses that employ members of the Nebraska National Guard or Army Reserve will take a helicopter ride around south-central Nebraska Wednesday morning.

Approximately 28-30 area employers of members of the reserve component will assemble at 9 a.m. at the National Guards Readiness Center near Kearney Regional Airport, said Garth Scism of the Employer Support for Guard and Reserve group.

Wednesdays Boss Lift will be a show of appreciation and effort, and it will also educate area employers about the important missions their employees are performing as members of the Guard and Reserve.

The employers will receive a continental breakfast followed by a briefing and then board a Boeing CH-47 Chinook helicopter for a one-hour ride around south-central Nebraska, Scism said.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is the lead U.S. Defense Department program promoting cooperation and understanding between civilian employers and their National Guard and Reserve employees.

More information about ESGR is available at 800-336-4590, Option 1, or email: OSD.USERRA@mail.mil.
Three of the Missouri and Kansas regions four U.S. senators decided Wednesday to hold sick veterans hostage to their own anger. Its appalling and childish.

The senators  Josh Hawley and Roy Blunt of Missouri and Roger Marshall of Kansas  voted against blocking a filibuster of the PACT Act, a measure designed to provide funding to treat veterans exposed to toxins and burn pits.

The bill has been under discussion for years. It would cost about $30 billion annually, a pittance in a multitrillion-dollar federal budget. But the cost is less important than the cause: The nation has promised to help sick veterans but voted Wednesday to break that promise.

If you have the guts to send somebody to war, then you better have the guts to take care of them when they get home, Sen. Jon Tester of Montana said on the Senate floor, to little effect.

The vote to end the filibuster was 55 yes to 42 no (Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer switched his vote to no in order to bring the measure back later.) In the Senate, of course, it takes 60 votes to open a can of bean soup, so the bill remains unpassed while veterans suffer and die.

The votes should infuriate Kansans and Missourians. The three senators voted for a virtually identical bill in June, which passed overwhelmingly. Blunt even bragged about it: Blunt votes in favor of historic, bipartisan bill to ensure health care and benefits for toxic-exposed veterans, his press release said.

Why the change of heart now?

Heres one suggestion: Senate Republicans were furious at a budget deal, announced just moments earlier, between Schumer and Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia. Manchin agreed to support a budget bill raising corporate taxes to pay for deficit reduction and climate change mitigation.

The tax and budget bill would need a simple majority to pass, not 60 votes. That made Republicans mad.

So lets get this straight: Because Blunt, Hawley and Marshall were angry about a tax and climate bill, they decided to make veterans suffer? It boggles the mind.

How dare they use veterans as a bargaining chip, Sen. Patty Murray, a Democrat, said in a tweet.

Comedian and activist Jon Stewart, who came to Kansas City this summer to urge progress on the PACT proposal, was equally furious. Not one of these stab vets in the back senators should get to leave for the Summer til this s(asterisk)(asterisk)(asterisk) is fixed, he tweeted. Not one.

We agree. If you need a precise picture of why Congress is broken, Wednesdays vote is as good as any: In a fit of pique over an unrelated compromise, Senate Republicans punished veterans struggling to breathe.

We should pause here to thank Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas, who was one of just eight Republicans who voted in support of veterans. We congratulate him on his good sense and hard work for veterans. We wish he would share both with his colleagues.

The other three senators should apologize and vote to proceed to the bill if  when  it comes back to the Senate floor. If they want to oppose the Schumer-Manchin tax and climate bill on its merits, they are free to do so later.

Until then, Sens. Blunt and Marshall should be disinvited from any Veterans Day service or Memorial Day observance until the PACT Act is signed into law.

Josh Hawley? No need to worry. If he sees an upset veteran approaching, hell run the other way.
KEARNEY  A judge has found a Kearney man guilty of kicking a man in the head and causing him to be hospitalized.

Kamaunte McFarland, 23, pleaded no contest in Buffalo County Court to felony first-degree assault of the man in the early morning hours of Feb. 22 in the 500 block of Fourth Street. In exchange for his plea, the Buffalo County Attorneys office agreed to not ask for more than 15 years in prison for McFarland at the time of sentencing.

However, Judge John Marsh isnt bound to any agreement by the attorneys and can sentence McFarland as he sees fit.

Judge Marsh accepted McFarlands plea and ordered the Nebraska Probation Office to complete a presentence investigation report, including a substance abuse evaluation. Findings of that report  including background information on a defendant, family and criminal history, employment and psychological and chemical dependency  help the judge issue an appropriate sentence.

Sentencing will be in September.

Around 12:20 a.m. on Feb. 22, Kearney Police Department officers and paramedics from CHI Health Good Samaritan were called to the Big Apple Fun Center, where records say police saw a man lying on the floor. The man had obvious injuries, records say, and was bleeding from his ears but breathing.

A witness told police the victim had tried to break up a fight between two women when he was rendered unconscious, records say.

McFarland then allegedly kicked the man in the head. The man was transported to the hospital, where he was initially listed in critical condition. When he became conscious, records say he had ringing in his ears and could communicate only by writing.

The man was treated for his injuries and later released. McFarland was interviewed by police, arrested and later posted bond.
KEARNEY  Organizers hope that individuals who still suffer the emotional, mental and physical scars of the Vietnam War will gain healing next week.

The traveling replica of the Vietnam War Memorial will roll into Kearney next week for a four-day visit from 8 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 11 through 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14.

The Wall will be displayed at Patriot Park at 4511 E. 56th St., near the Central Nebraska Veterans Home at 4510 E. 56th St.

Prior to the final leg of its trip to Kearney, the Wall will be in Gibbon at Gibbon High School.

A parade featuring the Patriot Guard Motorcyclists will leave Gibbon at 1 p.m. Tuesday and follow U.S. Highway 30 west from Gibbon to Kearneys Second Avenue. The parade will proceed north to 56th Street and turn east for the final leg on 56th Street to the Veterans Home.

Although the replica is a scaled down version of the actual monument in Washington, D.C., etched on its sides are the names of 56,000 service men and women who died as a result of service to their country. Many made the ultimate sacrifice in the Vietnam War. The United States fought in that war from 1965-1975.

Denny Houska, a Vietnam veteran who helped organize the Kearney appearance of The Wall That Heals, said Kearney is fortunate to have secured the monument. It will be displayed 24 hours per day, and its visit coincides with the 37th reunion of the Nebraska Vietnam Veterans.

Houska said the round the clock appearance is for the benefit of veterans whose scars prevent them from approaching the monument during daylight. Volunteer hosts are needed to welcome and assist visitors at the wall and to assist with tear down. Melinda Haag, the volunteer coordinator, can be reached at 308-379-8840.

Interested individuals can contact Melinda Haag, the volunteer coordinator, by email at BalloonGirl83@gmail.com or by phone at 308-379-8840. The volunteer registration page is at signup.com/go/vSkBRPe.

Houska said he and other organizers are hoping the replica wall will be a unifying and meaningful attraction during the gathering of Nebraskas Vietnam War veterans who will gather at the Younes Conference Center.

Its estimated 7,500 to 10,000 people will view the wall during its Kearney stop. Included with the walls appearance will be an educational multi-media component. There will be professionally guided educational tours, Hometown Heroes and a program titled, In Memory.

The 53-foot trailer that carries The Wall That Heals transforms into a mobile education center. The trailers exterior features a timeline of The War and The Wall and provides additional information about the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Additional exhibits give visitors a better understanding of the legacy of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the collection of items left at the wall.

Houska said making The Wall That Heals available to veterans and their families is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

We owe our veterans everything, he said.

More information about the 37th Vietnam Veterans Reunion and The Wall That Heals is available at VetsReunion.com; PatsBuzz@gmail.com and 308-233-1612.
Nebraska is experiencing terrific growth. Weve seen big success creating jobs, cutting taxes and attracting investment to our state.

This week, Im hosting Nebraskas Ag and Economic Development Summit in Kearney. The Summit convenes key leaders from across the state to discuss how to build on our strong momentum. Over the course of the Summit, well dive into the challenges and opportunities we face as a state. Some topics are familiar: developing our workforce, opening new markets for Nebraskas exports and growing value-added agriculture. Others are newer, such as dealing with the supply chain issues that have disrupted the flow of commerce over the past year.

Our states growth over the past year has been truly remarkable. Nebraska has enjoyed 12 consecutive months of record-high employment. There are now 24,700 more Nebraskans employed in our workforce than there were before the pandemic began. Manufacturing employment in Nebraska is at its highest point in over 14 years.

While generating jobs, weve successfully controlled state spending to deliver tax relief. Over the past eight years, weve dramatically reduced the rate of state spending growth  limiting it to 2.8% annually.

The changes to our tax code also make us more competitive for businesses looking for places to grow. This year, weve already seen major investments in communities across Nebraska. Here are just some of the examples:

January: Ag Processing announced it will build a major soybean processing plant in David City with capacity to process over 50 million bushels per year.

February: Norfolk Crush unveiled plans to build a $375 million soybean crushing plant near Norfolk that will process 38.5 million bushels per year.

March: Preferred Popcorn began production at a 123,000-square-foot facility in Waco. The company is a key driver of our nation-leading popcorn production.

April: Google announced a $750 million investment in Papillion/Omaha.

May: 3M announced a $58 million expansion in Valley to bolster manufacturing of respiratory and hearing protection products.

June: Duncan Aviation held a groundbreaking ceremony for its $38 million expansion in Lincoln. The project is expected to create up to 75 jobs.

July: Monolith Materials announced $300+ million of private investment as it scales up production at its existing facility in Hallam, constructs another plant to manufacture carbon-free ammonia and develops new technologies.

August: Last week, Clean Harbors said it expects to spend over $50 million in Kimball this year as part of a $180 million investment to double its capacity to incinerate waste materials in Nebraska. The expansion is creating 100 full-time jobs.

As established businesses grow in Nebraska, entrepreneurship is also strong. Last year, Nebraska attracted an all-time high of $317.6 million in venture capital. That more than doubled our states previous high of $153 million in 2018.

Small businesses are growing in the Good Life, too. Weve worked to help our Main Street businesses access the infrastructure and workforce they need to thrive. Were building rural broadband in Nebraska to expand access to high-speed Internet.

These investments are helping our small businesses succeed. In its latest Small Business Empowerment Report, Amazon reported that Nebraska vendors who sell through Amazons online store have had the fastest year-over-year retail growth in the nation at 60%. In federal fiscal year 2021, Nebraskas lending institutions helped the Small Business Administration break its previous record of regular program loans in Nebraska at $244 million.

Our states largest industry, agriculture, has been the engine of Nebraskas growth. Our beef exports for 2021  at $1.81 billion  surpassed our previous annual high by 25%. Our top crops had great years in 2021, too. We set records for both soybean and corn production with 1.85 billion bushels of corn and 351 million bushels of soybeans.

With all of this growth, Nebraska is shattering records for State revenue receipts. State revenues exceeded projections by over 30% last fiscal year, bringing in $1.47 billion more than expected. The States rainy day fund is at an all-time high of $1.69 billion. This sets up the next Legislature to build on the historic tax relief we delivered to Nebraskans in 2022.

By pulling together as a state, weve powered through floods, wildfires and a global pandemic with one of the strongest and most resilient economies in the country. As we hold our Summit this week, I want to thank our states ag and economic development leaders for their dedication to grow the Good Life. They personally contact industry leaders to encourage investment in Nebraska. They host business prospects and international trade officials. They provide hospitality at Husker Harvest Days to showcase our world-class agricultural equipment and technology. They tell Nebraskas story on trade missions. Theyre our greatest ambassadors. And we wouldnt be enjoying the growth weve seen without their tireless work.

If you have questions about the States work to support Nebraska agriculture and spur economic growth, please contact me.
AESG, a consultancy, engineering and advisory firm, said it has accredited professionals who can expertly guide developers, building owners and facilities managers in achieving the prestigious WiredScore and SmartScore certifications.

Smart buildings, which underpin the success of these initiatives by enabling seamless delivery of digital services, have now become a focal point of investment. Globally, the market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.9% between 2021 to 2026, reaching $121.6 billion.

During the initial launch phase, AESG will primarily target commercial buildings  both existing and in development  in the UAE. Building on this success, the firm intends to subsequently expand the offering to the rest of the GCC, UK and Singapore in due course.

Digital experiences

As one of the first Accredited Professionals for these globally recognised digital connectivity and smart building certifications, AESG will help building owners create smart, connected buildings that support enhanced digital experiences for occupants at a time the Middle Easts digital transformation advances at an accelerated pace.

These globally recognised certifications have been developed to create technologically advanced buildings with world-class, uninterrupted connectivity that helps advance functionalities such as collaborative working, health and well-being, safety, security, and sustainability, and supports the incorporation of future innovations. These benefits translate to the ability to attract and retain tenants and increase rental value, with studies showing that the WiredScore certification increases a propertys rental value by an average of 5%.

Work and living spaces have fundamentally changed in recent decades and high-quality, uninterrupted connectivity is now as vital to occupants as running water. In fact, quality of digital connectivity places second only to location among the top criteria tenants look for when moving to a new office. Smart buildings are fundamentally shifting the real-estate market, forcing building owners and landlords to re-evaluate functionalities ranging from user productivity and well-being to environmental impact, said Saeed Al Abbar, CEO at AESG. These stakeholders must now recognise that advanced, sustainable digital infrastructure is the foundation of the ongoing revolution to make buildings smarter and thereby enable a more collaborative, innovative, and dynamic future.

AESG professionals

Two AESG professionals  Rohan Chandavarkar, Associate Digital Delivery and Mark Derbyshire, Commissioning Manager  have been comprehensively trained under the WiredScore and SmartScore accreditation programmes. They will now work closely with AESGs clients to understand, improve, and communicate the user functionalities and technological foundations of their buildings to deliver exceptional user experience, drive cost-efficiencies, meet high standards of sustainability and future-proof buildings.

AESG estimates the typical certification period for WiredScore and SmartScore to be between three to four weeks. Following certification, the firm, together with WiredScore, will help promote the building by defining a bespoke leasing and marketing strategy that includes information such as tenant engagement guides, building fact sheets, and building roadmaps that will help the client provide training to leasing teams, brokers, and project managers.-- TradeArabia News Service
SECAUCUS, N.J. (AP)  The marketing director of a northern New Jersey hospital is facing weapons charges after a bomb threat yielded what police said was a cache of weapons in the hospital.

According to police in Secaucus, the bomb threat  which later was determined to be bogus  was called in to Hudson Regional Hospital on July 18. During a search, bomb detection dogs led investigators to an unlocked office closet containing dozens of firearms.

Among the weapons were 11 handguns and 27 rifles or shotguns, according to police. The closet also contained a .45 caliber semi-automatic rifle with a high-capacity magazine that was determined to be an assault rifle, and a 14-round high-capacity handgun magazine.

On Sunday, police arrested Reuven Alonalayoff as he arrived at Newark Liberty International Airport and charged the 46-year-old Elmwood Park resident with possession of an assault rifle and possession of two high-capacity magazines. Alonalayoff wasn't at the hospital on the day the guns were discovered, according to police.

Alonalayoff was tentatively scheduled to make a court appearance Aug. 22. It wasn't known if he had an attorney who could comment on the charges. A cell phone message was left Tuesday on a number listed for him. A message seeking comment was left with the hospital.
Polls opened Tuesday for Wisconsins partisan primary, which sees contested races ranging from state legislative primaries to a heated GOP race among candidates seeking the chance to face Democratic Gov. Tony Evers in November.

Heres what you need to know before you vote:

Whos running?

In the race for governor, former Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch and Tim Michels, the millionaire co-owner of Brownsville-based Michels Corp., were leading the field, separated by 1 percentage point, in a June statewide poll. State Rep. Timothy Ramthun, R-Campbellsport, and Adam Fischer are also running.

The winner of the Aug. 9 primary will go on to face Evers, who is seeking a second term, in the Nov. 8 election.

The Democratic primary for U.S. Senate has been all but decided, with Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes appearing poised to become the states first Black party nominee for the seat after his top opponents recently dropped out and endorsed him. Their names will still appear on the ballot, however.

Barnes is in one of the highest-profile political battles in the country, taking on U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson, a two-term incumbent whose campaign coffers far surpass what Barnes has raised so far, in the November midterm.

There are also contested primaries on both sides of the aisle for other statewide races, including secretary of state, treasurer and lieutenant governor. The winner of the Democratic primary for lieutenant governor will be matched with Evers on the November ticket, while the winner of the Republican primary for that office will be paired with whoever wins the GOP gubernatorial primary.

A full breakdown of legislative races and candidates can be found below.

When can I vote?

Polls are open from 7 a.m. through 8 p.m. Tuesday. Voters in line by 8 p.m. will still be allowed to vote.

Where do I vote?

Find your local clerk and polling place at myvote.wi.gov.

Do I have to declare a party affiliation?

No. Wisconsin has open primaries, meaning you dont need to register with a particular party in order to vote in that partys primary. You choose which primary you want to vote in when you complete your ballot.

Do I need a photo ID?

Yes, state law requires voters to provide an acceptable photo ID, such as a Wisconsin drivers license, at the polls in order to vote on Election Day. Your ID does not need to show your current address. Unsure what ID will qualify? Check out the states Bring it to the Ballot website (bringit.wi.gov) or call 866-868-3947. Those using a drivers license do not need to have one with a Real ID star in the corner.

Voters without an acceptable photo ID must be provided a provisional ballot and given the opportunity to submit a valid ID within three days after the election.

How do I get an ID?

Voters can get an acceptable photo ID for free by visiting their local Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles office. The DMV offers an ID petition process that verifies a voters identity and issues them a voting-compliant state ID card. For more information, call 608-266-1069.

The Wisconsin DMV announced last week that it would extend hours Monday and Tuesday to 6 p.m. to allow more time for people to obtain a photo ID. A birth certificate, proof of identity and Wisconsin residency are needed to obtain an official Wisconsin ID card.

What if I have an absentee ballot?

If you voted using an absentee ballot and planned to mail it in, it should have been postmarked at least a week ago in order to ensure it arrives by Election Day. You can check the status of your absentee ballot on MyVote. If youre still in possession of an absentee ballot, most voters can deliver it to their local municipal clerk on Tuesday before polls close. Check with your local clerk for your options.

Can I still register to vote on Tuesday?

Yes. Voters can start the registration process online, print out a filled-out form and bring it to the polls on Election Day. Voters can also complete a registration form at their polling place.

Those hoping to register to vote on Tuesday will need to provide a photo ID and proof of residence using documents with their current name and address on them. Some acceptable documents include a Wisconsin ID card, a bank statement or a utility bill.
Law enforcement agents in the United States searched and seized evidence Monday at the Florida home of former President Donald Trump. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, or FBI, is investigating possible illegal treatment of secret U.S. information, recognized by the government as classified.

Trump himself was the first to report the FBI action at Mar-a-Lago, as the home is called. It is in the city of Palm Beach. Trump was not home at the time.

The former president said in a statement, "After working and cooperating with the relevant Government agencies, this unannounced raid on my home was not necessary or appropriate. He said the search involved a large group of FBI agents, adding, "They even broke into my safe!"

What are they looking for?

Trump did not say what the agents were looking for at his Florida home. His son Eric Trump told Fox News that the search concerned documents that Trump had taken from the White House.

The U.S. Justice Department and the FBI did not comment about the reported search. But the Justice Department has been investigating the possible abuse of classified information during and after Trumps departure from presidential office.

U.S. law requires that all official presidential records, including letters, notes, emails, and all other written communications are saved and sent to the National Archives.

Trump brought several presidential records with him to Florida. After several requests, he surrendered 15 boxes of documents to the Archives in January. Some of the documents were marked classified. So, the agency contacted the Justice Department about them.

In the U.S., law enforcement searches require permission from a judge. Though a search warrant does not suggest that criminal charges are near or even expected, investigators must persuade a judge that they have probable cause that a crime happened.

Never happened before

Trump noted in his long statement that Nothing like this has ever happened to a President of the United States before.

Experts suggest that the warrant had to have been supported by FBI Director Christopher Wray, a Trump appointee, and Attorney General Merrick Garland, who was appointed by President Joe Biden.

Phillip Halpern is a former government lawyer who worked on public corruption cases. He told Reuters, "This is as big a deal as you can have, and ... every single person in the chain would have had to sign off on this.

White House officials said President Joe Biden learned about the search through reporting from news organizations.

Thomas Schwartz is a Vanderbilt University history professor who studies and writes about the presidency. He told the Associated Press that there is no precedent for a former president facing an FBI search -- even going back to Watergate. At that time, Richard Nixon was not permitted to take tapes or other materials from the White House when he resigned as president in 1974, Schwartz noted.

This is different and it is a sign of how unique the Trump period was, said Schwartz.

On Monday night, the former president accused Democrats of weaponization of the justice system to keep him from running for president in 2024. Several Republican governors and Kevin McCarthy, the Republican leader in the House of Representatives, used the same term to attack the search at Trumps home.

The search, however, is not the only legal issue that Trump is facing. The former president is currently facing legal issues concerning his businesses in New York, and investigations into possible election wrongdoing and the January 6 attack on Congress.

I'm Caty Weaver.

Hai Do adpated this story for Learning English based on reporting from Reuters and The Associated Press.

______________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

relevant - adj. relating to a subject

appropriate - adj. right or suited for some purpose or situation

departure - n. the act of leaving a job

precedent - n. similar action or event that happened at an earlier time

unique - adj. very special or unusual
World-famous music and movie star Olivia Newton-John has died at her home in southern California.

Her husband John Easterling appealed to the public in a message on Instagram and Facebook. We ask that everyone please respect the familys privacy during this very difficult time, he wrote.

The highly awarded Newton-John sold more than 100 million record albums during her career. From 1973-1983, she was among the worlds most popular entertainers. She had 14 top 10 singles in the United States alone and won four Grammys.

Newton-John is perhaps most remembered for her performance in 1978s wildly popular musical movie Grease. She stars as high school student Sandy, love interest of Danny, played by John Travolta. One song the two share in the film, Youre the One that I Want, sold more than 15 million copies.

I [was] worried that at 29 I was too old to play a high school girl, Newton-John told The Telegraph in 2017. Everything about making the film was fun, but if I had to pick a favorite moment, it was the transformation from what I call Sandy 1 to Sandy 2. I got to play a different character and wear different clothes, and when I put on that tight black outfit to sing Youre the One That I Want, I got a very different reaction from the guys on the set.

Physical, Newton-Johns biggest single, came out in 1981. The energetic, sexy dance song was hugely popular, holding the number-one position on Billboards hit list for 10 weeks straight. Later, the music industry magazine named Physical the song of the year. A video linked to the song won a Grammy, as well.

In later years of her career, Newton-John became more likely to make the news because of her private life. In 1992, she faced loss and sickness. Her father died and she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Three years later, she and actor Matt Lattanzi, with whom she shared a daughter, ended their marriage.

And a years-long relationship with cameraman Patrick McDermott ended mysteriously, when he went missing during a 2005 fishing trip in California.

He was lost at sea, and nobody really knows what happened, Newton-John told Australias 60 Minutes in 2016. Its human to wonder. But you know, those are the things in life you have to accept and let go, she said.

Newton-John also wrote a book, Gaia: One Womans Journey, about her battle with cancer and the loss of her father.

Newton-John married John Easterling in 2008. She became involved in several causes, serving as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Environment Program and as a national spokeswoman for the Childrens Health Environmental Coalition. She also founded the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Center in Melbourne, Australia.

Newton-John was born in Britain to Irene Born and Brin Newton-John. Her mothers father was Nobel Prize-winning physicist Max Born.

The Newton-Johns moved to Australia when Olivia was 5, but she returned to England in her teens and lived with her mother after her parents separated. She had early dreams of becoming an animal doctor. After winning singing competitions in high school, she decided on a career in music instead.

I'm Caty Weaver.

The Associated Press reported this story. Caty Weaver and Hai Do adapted the story for Learning English.

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Words in This Story

moment - n. a very short period of time

transformation - n. a complete or major change

character - n. a person who appears in a movie, book, film...

diagnose - v. to recognize a disease
Bahri, a global leader in logistics and transportation, has signed a strategic partnership with Aventra Group, a digital transformation company, to assist its digital transformation journey.

This partnership includes building a maritime-based data orchestration platform solution that will securely store, sort, and combine data across Bahris business units, allowing the company to streamline and automate data-driven decision-making.

Waleed Alsobayel, Acting Chief Technology Officer, Bahri, commented: Our partnership with Aventra Group is a great step towards implementing the latest technology to aid our day-to-day operations. Data is the core to all digital transformation, and this partnership enables Bahri to accelerate its strategy to ensure that we further strengthen Bahris comprehensive logistics and transportation offerings.

Strategic project

Ajay Gupta, CEO & Executive Director of Aventra Digital, said: We are proud to have been chosen for this strategic project and understand the importance of this partnership. Aventra will use its advanced data platform technology and maritime expertise to build a Data Orchestration platform to enable Bahri to stay competitive in an ever-changing global market. Digitisation is driving a significant shift in the maritime and logistics industry toward a data-driven culture.

Bahris new state-of-the-art data orchestration platform will collect and prepare data, analyse transactional efficiency, and stream real-time information, including data from sensor-based Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This cataloged data will then be used to facilitate greater business insights using both machine learning automation and artificial intelligence (AI).

Bahris decision to partner with Aventra Group will facilitate agile decision-making within rapidly changing scenarios to properly manage risks and opportunities for customers, suppliers, and employees. The data orchestration initiative further underlines Bahris commitment to creating value and delivering excellence through efficient operations.-- TradeArabia News Service
The eastern Ukrainian city of Sloviansk has a severe shortage of water. Members of the citys shrinking population must fill water containers by hand at public wells throughout the city.

As guns and rockets fire, people go outside only long enough to get water at the pumps. The pumps have been the city's only water source for more than two months.

Fighting between Ukrainian and Russian forces near the city in the Donetsk area has threatened access to important resources. Residents have been cut off from gas and water for months.

The water flows for now. But many fear that by winter, the city could face a humanitarian crisis once the pipes begin to freeze. Sloviansk sits just 12 kilometers from Russian-occupied territory.

The water infrastructure was destroyed by the constant battles, said Lyubov Mahlii. The 76-year-old woman gathers 20 liters of water twice a day from a public tank near her apartment.

"Its a great risk for us, but what can we do? she said.

Only a fifth of the city's pre-war population of 100,000 remains. Heavy fighting continues only kilometers away as Russian forces continue their push to take over Donetsk, part of the industrial Donbas area.

Local officials believe the water situation will only get worse once the weather gets cold.

Locals fill their bottles with hand pumps or from plastic tanks at one of the five public wells. They then carry them home in bicycle baskets or wheeled carts.

Mahlii said she boils some water for at least 15 minutes to make sure it is safe to drink. The rest is used for bathing, washing clothes and dishes, watering plants and taking care of a lost dog.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued an evacuation order to all residents of the Donetsk region at the end of July. But, Mahlii has not made plans to flee.

I dont want to leave, she said. I will die here.

Another Sloviansk resident, 75-year-old Ninel Kyslovska, gathered water from a tank at a park on Sunday. She said the shortage had made her life much more difficult.

She blamed the local government for the lack of running water. She said Kramatorsk, just 10 kilometers to the south, still had running water in homes.

But that may be threatened once winter arrives, when the temperature drops to -20 degrees Celsius, said Oleksandr Goncharenko. He is the head of Kramatorsk's military administration.

He said that places like Sloviansk and Kramatorsk  which also lack gas  had become hostages of destroyed infrastructure.

Goncharenko said Kramatorsk will empty water from city pipes that run into unheated buildings to prevent them from freezing and bursting. He said he does not think gas would be returned before winter.

Ukrainian officials are still trying to persuade the remaining people in Donetsk to evacuate. The war's front line threatens to move further west. And it will be very hard for people to live in the cold winters.

Officials in Kramatorsk plan to build more public wells to supply the remaining population. But Goncharenko warned the water may not be of good quality.

Mahlii has not made plans for what she will do once cold weather arrives. But after 47 years in her Sloviansk apartment, she will face whatever difficulty.

We are surviving by any means, she said.

Im Dan Novak.

Dan Novak adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reporting by The Associated Press.

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Words in This Story

access  n. the right or ability to approach, enter, or use

resident  n. a person who lives in a place

infrastructure  n. the system of public works of a country, state, or region

constant  adj. occurring continuously or following one after another

evacuate  v. to leave or cause to leave a place of danger

_______________________________________________________________________

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Family road trips from Lincoln to the sleepy Wyoming towns of Ten Sleep and Worland were fixtures of Nikki Menard's summers growing up. Her adoptive parents hailed from the two towns in the Bighorn Basin, a sprawling arid plateau flanked by mountains and cut by rivers.

But despite how familiar she was with the region, it wasn't until Menard was older that she learned the story of Heart Mountain, one of 10 prison camps in the U.S. where Japanese Americans were relocated during World War II.

It's a dark corner of American history that Menard is working to make sure is never forgotten  or repeated.

The Crete High School English and journalism teacher was one of 72 educators from across the U.S. invited to a workshop at the Heart Mountain National Historic Landmark site to learn more about the camp's history  and to create their own lesson plans on the history of Japanese American incarceration.

"It was an extremely emotional journey," she said.

Menard was among 270 teachers who applied for the National Endowment for the Humanities fellowship to attend one of two workshops.

Teachers received a $1,300 stipend to cover lodging and travel to the Heart Mountain site, which is near Cody, Wyoming, in the Bighorn Basin.

More than 14,000 Japanese Americans, the large majority of them U.S. citizens, were relocated from the West Coast to the internment camp following Japan's 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor.

At its peak, the site was the third-largest city in Wyoming and featured a hospital, mess hall, schools and other facilities.

Barbed-wire fences and guard towers surrounded hundreds of tar-paper barracks, where families were housed in tiny apartments with no indoor plumbing and poor insulation.

"It was a pretty wretched place to live by any objective standard," said Ray Locker, who oversees the workshops.

Today, the valley is radically changed, home to lush fields of barley and other crops  the result of irrigation practices the Japanese Americans introduced during their incarceration.

A museum keeps the memory of the site alive, now, and there is a walking trail and expansive root cellar still in place that were built by the prisoners.

Teachers spent a week on the site learning from trained faculty about the history of Japanese American incarceration, which President Franklin Roosevelt ordered in February 1942 amid growing concerns about national security.

The concerns were unfounded, but about 120,000 Japanese Americans were eventually incarcerated nonetheless.

"When you take somebody to the place where a historical event happened like this, it's transformative," Locker said.

Educators were also able to meet former prisoners who gathered at Heart Mountain for an annual pilgrimage. And dignitaries  including U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming and her former vice president father  were on hand.

For Menard, a member of the Oglala Lakota tribe, Heart Mountain contains even more meaning beyond its significance during WWII.

The land once used to imprison Japanese Americans was originally home to the Crow tribe, which was relocated by the U.S. government. The tribe also holds an annual pilgrimage to Heart Mountain  considered sacred by the Crow  which Menard was able to attend last week.

"It was a really spiritual experience," she said.

Now, Menard plans to take what she learned back to her students in Crete through a unit she developed that deals with place, identity and culture.

"It deserves attention," she said. "We don't have to make those mistakes again."
LEXINGTON  Two Las Vegas, Nev., men have been charged with multiple firearm and drug felonies after a traffic stop at the Darr I-80 interchange.

Patrick McKinney, 41 and Jeno Paulucci, 40, have been charged with possession of a firearm during a felony 1B, 1C drug violation, possession of a firearm during a felony 2A drug violation, two counts, and possession of a controlled substance, three counts.

Both mens bail was set at ten percent of $1,000,000.

A preliminary hearing in Dawson County Court for both men was set for Tuesday, Aug. 16 at 11 a.m.

According to court filings, on Wednesday, Aug. 3, a Nebraska State Patrol trooper was monitoring the Darr I-80 eastbound off ramp. Signs were displayed that there was a checkpoint on the off ramp and a K-9 was in use.

The troopers observed an eastbound vehicle exit I-80 and make a right turn on to Road 755. The vehicle then drove left of center and parked on the wrong side of the road, the driver and a passenger both exited the vehicle and let two dogs out, according to court filings.

The trooper then initiated a traffic stop and made contact with the driver behind the vehicle, allegedly there was a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The driver was allegedly identified as Paulucci; McKinney the passenger.

The trooper and a Dawson County Sheriffs deputy both conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and located boxes allegedly containing methamphetamine. Both Paulucci and McKinney were placed under arrest.

During a later search of the vehicle at the NSP Lexington office, the following items were allegedly located: six grams of cocaine, 70 grams of methamphetamine, fentanyl pills, 1.5 pounds of marijuana, 31 ecstasy pills, 58 grams of THC wax, multiple amphetamine pills, several unknown pills, a .45 handgun, two machetes, a hatchet, multiple knives, one baton Taser, a ballistic vest with plate and multiple coins and jewelry.

Paulucci and McKinney were both booked into the Dawson County Jail.
Snap Inc., a leading camera company, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Qatars Government Communications Office (GCO) to open a new office in Doha, expanding its footprint in the Mena region.



This move is part of Snaps efforts to support and create opportunities for its highly engaged community in Qatar, as well as work closely with local partners and businesses, ultimately contributing to Qatars growing and vibrant digital landscape.



The creator's economy in Qatar has witnessed a significant growth over the last two years with the discovery of several local creators and Arab expats. Snap is building on this progress and sees a clear opportunity to elevate the voices of Qatar's creator ecosystem, amplify their stories and support their continued innovation.



Hussein Freijeh, General Manager of Snap Inc. in the Middle East said: "Snapchat has a highly engaged community in Qatar and we are delighted to announce our expanding presence in Mena with the opening of a new office in Doha, which reflects our support to Qatars growing and vibrant digital landscape. This will also allow us to better serve our local community of Snapchatters, creators and businesses, and invest in developer partnerships to create even more opportunities for digital transformation in Qatar.



Sheikh Jassim bin Mansour bin Jabor Al Thani, Director of the Government Communications Office, said: We are pleased to welcome Snap Inc to Qatar and look forward to seeing the Snap community grow. This new office and strategic partnership will help them reach one of the most vibrant and digitally enabled knowledge economies in the region and will allow our citizens to continue to engage with dynamic technology for creative and commercial uses.



Snap Incs leadership in Mena will be overseeing the office management and is planning to hire a team to run the operations locally.  TradeArabia News Service
We listen to local police and fire departments scanner traffic, but sometimes miss crimes, wrecks, fires or other incidents, especially if they happen overnight. If you know of something were not covering yet, please let Managing Editor Jeff Pownall know by emailing him at jeff.pownall@lufkindailynews.com, or submit a news tip online by visiting lufkindailynews.com/tips.
TUESDAY, Aug. 9, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Flooding, heat waves and drought have made 58% of infectious diseases worse, a new analysis claims.

For the review of previous studies, published Aug. 8 in the journal Nature Climate Change, researchers found that 218 of the known 375 infectious diseases have been made worse by climate change, including malaria, hantavirus, cholera and anthrax.

The researchers found that torrential rain and flooding made people sick through mosquitoes, rats and deer that carry germs. Also, warming oceans and heat waves taint seafood and other food, while droughts increase the number of bats that carry viruses.

"If climate is changing, the risk of these diseases are changing," study co-author Dr. Jonathan Patz, director of the Global Health Institute at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, told the Associated Press.

"The findings of this study are terrifying and illustrate well the enormous consequences of climate change on human pathogens," Dr. Carlos del Rio, an Emory University infectious disease specialist who was not part of the study, told the AP.

"Those of us in infectious diseases and microbiology need to make climate change one of our priorities, and we need to all work together to prevent what will be without doubt a catastrophe as a result of climate change," del Rio said.

The researchers also looked at other illnesses, including asthma, allergies and animal bites, to see how many of these were connected to climate change. They found that of nearly 300 illnesses, more than 220 of them were worsened by climate change. Nine were lessened by climate change, while 54 had cases that were made worse or lessened.

"There is no speculation here whatsoever. These are things that have already happened," lead study author Camilo Mora, a climate data analyst at the University of Hawaii, told the AP.

Mora himself has experienced the direct effects on climate change on health: About five years ago, his home in rural Colombia was flooded, creating an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Mora contracted chikungunya, a virus spread by mosquito bites. While he survived, he said he still experiences joint pain years later.

Dr. Aaron Bernstein, interim director of the Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment at Harvard School of Public Health, said the study serves as a warning about climate change and health.

"This study underscores how climate change may load the dice to favor unwelcome infectious surprises," Bernstein told the AP. "But of course it only reports on what we already know, and what's yet unknown about pathogens may be yet more compelling about how preventing further climate change may prevent future disasters like COVID-19."

More information

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more on climate change and health.

SOURCE: Associated Press
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP)  Fewer Kenyans voted Tuesday in an unusual presidential election where a longtime opposition leader who is backed by the outgoing president faces the brash deputy president who styles himself as the outsider. Turnout was just 56% an hour before polls closed as some voters cited little hope of real change.

The election was considered close but calm. East Africas economic hub could see a presidential runoff for the first time. Economic issues such as widespread corruption could be of greater importance than the ethnic tensions that have marked past votes with sometimes deadly results.

Kenya is a standout with its relatively democratic system in a region where some leaders are notorious for clinging to power for decades. Its stability is crucial for foreign investors, the most humble of street vendors and troubled neighbors like Ethiopia and Somalia.

The top candidates are Raila Odinga, a democracy campaigner who has vied for the presidency for a quarter-century, and 55-year-old Deputy President William Ruto, who has stressed his journey from a humble childhood to appeal to struggling Kenyans long accustomed to political dynasties.

In moments like this is when the mighty and the powerful come to the realization that it is the simple and the ordinary that eventually make the choice, Ruto told journalists. I look forward to our victorious day. He urged Kenyans to be peaceful and respect others' choices.

I have confidence that the people of Kenya are going to speak loudly in favor of democratic change, Odinga told journalists. A cheering crowd jogged alongside his convoy as he arrived to vote in Nairobi.

To win outright, a candidate needs more than half of all votes and at least 25% of the votes in more than half of Kenyas 47 counties. No outright winner means a runoff election within 30 days.

Results must be announced within a week, but impatience is expected if they dont come before this weekend. What we want to try to avoid is a long period of anxiety, of suspense, said Bruce Golding, who leads the Commonwealth election observer group.

Outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta, the son of Kenyas first president, cut across the usual ethnic lines and angered Ruto by backing longtime rival Odinga after their bitter 2017 election contest. But both Odinga and Ruto have chosen running mates from the countrys largest ethnic group, the Kikuyu.

The 77-year-old Odinga made history by choosing running mate Martha Karua, a former justice minister and the first woman to be a leading contender for the deputy presidency. She has inspired many women in a country where female candidates commonly face harassment.

Rising food and fuel prices, debt at 67% of GDP, youth unemployment at 40% and corruption put economic issues at the center of an election in which unregulated campaign spending highlighted the countrys inequality. But personalities still matter.

We need mature people to lead, not someone who abuses people. Someone who respects elders, said 55-year-old teacher Rosemary Mulima, who arrived at a polling station on Nairobi's outskirts to find about 500 people in line before dawn. She had very high hopes for Odinga on his fifth try,

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission estimated that final turnout would be above 60%, far lower than the 80% in the 2017 election. That would make it Kenya's lowest turnout in 15 or even 20 years. The electoral commission signed up less than half of the new voters it had hoped for, just 2.5 million.

More than 6.5 million people had voted by midday, or about 30% of the 22 million registered.

The problems from (the previous election), the economy, the day-to-day life, are still here, said 38-year-old shopkeeper Adrian Kibera. We don't have good choices, he said, calling Odinga too old and Ruto too inexperienced.

Difficulties were reported at times with the electronic voting system, and presidential candidate George Wajackoyah told journalists that some voting kits in his stronghold werent working. Though polling in low single figures, Wajackoyah and his pledges to legalize marijuana prompted questions over whether he could draw enough votes to force a runoff.

The electoral commission said about 200 voting kits had failed out of more than 46,000, calling it not widespread" and normal for technology to break down at times.

Kenyans hope for a peaceful vote. Elections can be exceptionally troubled, as in 2007 when the country exploded after Odinga claimed the vote had been stolen from him and more than 1,000 people were killed. Ruto was indicted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity for his role in the violence, but his case was terminated amid allegations of witness tampering.

In 2017, the high court overturned the election results, a first in Africa, after Odinga challenged them over irregularities. He boycotted the new vote and proclaimed himself the peoples president, bringing allegations of treason. A public handshake between him and Kenyatta calmed the crisis.
Paramedics took one person to a local hospital with injuries early Monday afternoon after a crash involving two vehicles closed lanes on East Washington Avenue for roughly an hour and a half, the Madison Fire Department said.

Public safety officials, including Madison police and fire department personnel, arrived on the scene of the collision at the intersection of East Washington Avenue and First Street Monday afternoon.

Both vehicles suffered front-end damage, Fire Department spokesperson Cynthia Schuster said about the severity of the crash.

Schuster said she did not have information to share on the extent or seriousness of the injuries sustained by the victim, whose identity has not yet been released.
The widow and the estate of a Navy veteran who died in 2020 have filed suit in Dane County against the Wisconsin Veterans Home at Union Grove, claiming its negligence resulted in the mans death.

The suit, filed Friday by the wife of Randall Krall, also names 14 nurses and other Veterans Home employees involved in Kralls care. The former Waterford man died on Dec. 19, 2020, at the age of 69.

According to the suit, filed in Dane County Circuit Court, Krall was admitted to the home in September 2016 for skilled nursing care and had a medical history that included dementia and stroke. In mid-November of 2020, his wife was told he had not been eating, according to the suit, and he was subsequently transferred to a hospital but later returned to the home for palliative care. Failure to thrive was the official cause of death listed on his death certificate, the suit says.

The suit alleges staff at the home failed to properly monitor his food and fluid intake, breathing, wound care and other ailments and vital signs, and that leaders at the facility failed to properly train and supervise their employees.

And it claims that over the four years Krall was at the home, he experienced medications errors, inappropriate catheter insertions and unexplained bruises, as well as reckless, wanton, demeaning and inhuman treatment, including not being taken to the bathroom on time.

It also makes reference to broader problems at the 158-bed facility, including 17 citations in 2017 for violations including medication errors and neglected wound care and 20 citations in 2019.

The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs states that its nursing homes are among the best in the country, the suit says, but in reality, Wisconsin Veterans Home at Union Grove has a 1-star rating (the lowest possible) from Medicare.

The home at Union Grove is one of three such homes overseen by the state DVA  the others are in King and Chippewa Falls. The home in King has been the source of repeated complaints by residents and their families and has a history of citations by federal regulators. The departments homes have a history of struggling to maintain quality ratings by the federal government.

The suit asks for unspecified compensatory damages for Kralls widow, Luane, and his estate.

A spokesperson for the DVA did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the suit Monday.
A suspect in the July 22 shooting death of an 18-year-old man on Madisons North Side waived extradition Tuesday in a court in Dayton, Ohio, after his arrest in Dayton last week by a U.S. Marshals Service task force.

A waiver of extradition signed by Aquille T. Lowe, 27, states that he has been charged in Dane County with first-degree intentional homicide using a dangerous weapon as a party to a crime, possession of a firearm by a felon and first-degree reckless endangerment.

The waiver allows authorities to send Lowe back to Dane County without going through formal extradition procedures.

The extradition waiver was filed Tuesday in Common Pleas Court of Montgomery County, Ohio, where it was signed by a judge. In the meantime, Lowe remains in the Montgomery County Jail in Dayton.

The victim in the homicide, which happened in the 1700 block of Vahlen Street, has been identified as Laron D. Bynum of Milwaukee.

Lowe, of Fitchburg, was arrested on Thursday by the U.S. Marshals Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team, according to a news release issued last week by the U.S. Marshals Service.

The release states an arrest warrant for Lowe was issued in Dane County Circuit Court on July 29. A criminal complaint in a felony case filed on that date was sealed by a Dane County judge and remains under seal despite Lowes arrest.

The Marshals Service said the team arrested Lowe without incident at an apartment complex in the 900 block of Wilmington Avenue in Dayton.

According to court records, Lowe is on probation until 2024 after pleading guilty last year to the manufacture or delivery of cocaine.

Madison police have provided few details about the case, other than to say that Bynum was found fatally shot in a stolen car that was parked on Vahlen Street. The incident appeared related to another in which shots were fired in the 600 block of Vera Court, police have said.

The Dane County Medical Examiners Office said Bynum died from a gunshot wound.

In the last statement issued by police on the case, spokesperson Stephanie Fryer said on July 28 that at that point, police had not identified any suspects or arrested anyone. A second vehicle that was involved in the case had been located, she said, and police were still trying to determine the sequence of events.

On Tuesday, Fryer confirmed Lowes arrest in Dayton and said MPD has requested charges of first-degree intentional homicide. She added this is still an active investigation, and anyone with information about the homicide is asked to contact Madison police or Madison Area Crime Stoppers.
The Madison Police Department is proposing to assign a police officer to the neighborhoods around each of Madisons four main high schools after a spate of high-profile violent incidents at or near some of the schools last school year  the first fully in-person year since the Madison School Board removed officers from inside the schools.

Police Chief Shon Barnes 2023 budget proposal, released July 22, asks for funding to reinvigorate the citys longtime neighborhood policing program by assigning one officer each to the neighborhoods around East, West, Memorial and La Follette high schools.

The number of officers assigned to the program has been cut in recent years as the department has struggled to meet the need for regular patrol services.

Separately, the School Board in June 2020 voted unanimously to end a decadeslong partnership with police that placed an officer, known as a school resource officer, in each of the four main high schools. The decision came at the height of racial-justice protests in Madison and around the world sparked by the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, but also after years of aggressive lobbying by the local social justice group Freedom Inc..

Barnes, who supports school resource officer, or SRO, programs, said it was not his intention to debate the boards decision, but I have heard from neighbors, neighborhoods and stakeholders that there is a need for safety, enhanced police focus and outreach efforts in the areas around the high schools.

I am not suggesting any direct school involvement or inside-of-school involvement on behalf of the MPD, he writes in his budget proposal memo. What I am proposing is the enhancement of police officer support to the neighborhoods and areas immediately surrounding our four public high schools.

School District spokesperson Tim LeMonds said the district was indeed aware of the police department proposal, but that these are not SROs, nor is their assignment related to a request from (the district). He declined to say directly whether the district supported Barnes proposal.

The district continues to prioritize the safety and security of our schools, and values our collaboration with the city of Madison Police Department, he said in a statement. During the 2021-22 school year, the majority of student-involved altercations on our campuses originated from conflicts starting in the community and later continuing when back on school property. We know how intervention can provide the best outcomes for all students, and we support efforts by MPD, and other community partners, to ensure safety and security continues for our students when not on school grounds.

The School Board did not respond to emailed inquiries asking whether it supported Barnes proposal. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, who backed the School Boards 2020 decision, doesnt discuss these requests in advance of the executive budget, her chief of staff, Mary Bottari, said. City Council President Keith Furman did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The mayor and council would have the final say on the Police Departments 2023 budget.

Data on whether the schools and the areas around them have become more dangerous have been muddled or unavailable, and neither the district nor police immediately pointed to any Monday that might paint a more accurate picture. Police spokesperson Stephanie Fryer did say that from Sept. 1, 2021, to June 15, police had hundreds of calls to the high schools at all hours of the day  specifically, 220 to East, 158 to La Follette, 170 to Memorial and 92 to West.

Members of the public in favor of SROs have tended to point to their absence last year as a main factor in the spate of violent incidents, while those opposed to SROs tend to blame such incidents on stress and other disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The board in March created its second school safety committee since removing the SROs. It continues to meet. Among the first committees 16 recommendations, adopted by the board in February 2021, were required debriefing sessions after every instance in which police are called to a school to examine, among other things, what could have been done proactively to avoid involving law enforcement.

Barnes said in his memo that the high school-area neighborhood officers would:

Establish relationships with neighborhoods, students and their families to address crime and reduce fear and concerns about crime.

Create prevention programming and conduct problem-orientated policing activities in designated school zones.

Establish partnerships with businesses and other stakeholders in designated school zones.

Serve as a communication liaison between the affected community and the entire MPD.

Provide immediate response to safety threats in designated school zones.
A Norfolk woman is facing five criminal charges  including three felonies  alleging she helped her teenage daughter abort, burn and bury her fetus earlier this year.

Jessica Burgess, 41, pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial in Madison County District Court. Her then-17-year-old daughter Celeste Burgess  who is being tried as an adult  also pleaded not guilty to three charges, including a felony.

And a 22-year-old man accused of helping the two bury the fetus pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor and will be sentenced later this month.

A Norfolk police detective launched his investigation in late April, chasing a tip that Celeste Burgess had miscarried and that she and her mother had buried the body, according to a search warrant affidavit.

The detective obtained her medical records, and determined shed been more than 23 weeks  or nearly six months  pregnant at the time, and was expected to deliver July 3.

When he interviewed them a few days later, they told him Celeste Burgess had unexpectedly given birth to her stillborn baby in the shower, in the early morning hours after midnight, court records say.

She woke her mother, and they put the babys body in a bag and stowed it in the back of their van, he wrote.

Later  the records dont say when  they drove a few miles north of town and buried the body, with help from a 22-year-old man.

On April 29, they showed the detective where  on a property owned by the mans parents. He told investigators the mother and daughter had tried to burn the body before it was buried. And when authorities exhumed it, it showed signs of what the detective called thermal wounds.

In early June, the two women were each charged with removing, concealing or abandoning a dead human body, a felony, and a pair of misdemeanors: concealing the death of another person; and false reporting.

But the investigation wasnt over. A week after the two were charged, the detective served a search warrant on Facebook, to get access to their accounts.

He found messages between them suggesting Jessica Burgess had obtained abortion pills for her daughter, and gave her instructions on how to take them.

C. Burgess talks about how she cant wait to get the thing out of her body and reaffirms with J. Burgess that they will burn the evidence afterward, the detective wrote.

A month later, Madison County Attorney Joseph Smith added two more felonies to the charges against Jessica Burgess  for performing or attempting an abortion on a pregnancy at more than 20 weeks, and performing an abortion as a non-licensed doctor.

That was the first time Smith had filed those charges in his 32 years as the countys prosecutor.

I dont think Ive ever had a case like this, he said Friday. Usually, abortions are performed in hospitals, and doctors are involved, and its not the type of stuff that occurred in this case.

The attorney representing Jessica Burgess declined to comment on the case, and her daughters attorney did not return a call seeking comment.
Sharjah has effective mobilised emergency measures to combat the summer rains that wrought havoc in several parts of the emirate over the last few days.

The emirate had braced to address this anticipated summer deluge, by monitoring potential risks and reviewing federal response plans, to ensure the readiness of emergency crews and mechanisms, and spread awareness and safety tips.

More than 3,400 rescue and evacuation operations were conducted in the eastern region of the emirate by the Sharjah Police General Headquarters, which received and handled more than 10,782 emergency calls, with full support from 503 crew members, 101 emergency vehicles and 45 patrols.

Teams from the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) partnered with relevant local and federal authorities, including Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Community Development, Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, and private sector entities to preemptively prepare for the dire weather conditions.

Coordination

Brigadier General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amir, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police praised the coordination between the various federal entities and the Sharjah Police.

He also commended the high level of professionalism, ability and readiness of the emirates emergency teams and other relevant entities, which were critical to deal with these exceptional circumstances, prevent damages and ensure the safety of citizens and residents in the emirate, as per the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

He extended his thanks and appreciation to all institutions, individuals, volunteers, and private sector companies who supported emergency teams to help those affected by the floods.

Evacuation

Evacuations were in full swing in the eastern region, where transportation and accommodation were provided to more than 2,100 affected people in schools and hotels in the area.

Brigadier General Bin Amir noted that the Sharjah Police has assigned a special team to inspect the various emergency shelters, follow up on developments and ensure food supplies are provided to those in need.

In flood-hit Kalba, 2,069 residents were moved into schools, while nurses were transferred from Fujairah to support medical efforts in Kalba Hospital. Etisalat engineers were also flown in by the Sharjah Air Wing Department to restore communications in the area, while a team from the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority endeavoured to restore electricity.-- TradeArabia News Service
News flash: Conservatives hate the liberal media. Always have, and always will.

Wayne Hoffman, president of the Idaho Freedom Foundation, well describes sentiments from the right. What you read in most local daily newspapers or see on the daily news isnt really journalism. Its leftist propaganda.

He says that Idahos media is hot garbage and encourages others  including his followers  to stay away.

Again, theres nothing new about this rhetoric. In 1985, a short time after I began covering politics with the Post Register in Idaho Falls, a group of Republicans accused myself and the Idaho State Journal of showing favoritism to Democrats. They measured column inches in the newspapers and concluded that Democrats were getting the bulk of coverage.

I wrote a scathing column lashing out at Republicans for daring to suggest that the Post Register (and myself) stood for anything other than truth, justice and the American Way.

The controversy caught the eye of Idaho Public TV and I was invited to Pocatello to appear on a program with Debbie Field to discuss the matter. I was halfway expecting to see a wicked witch riding into the studio on a broomstick, ready to cast an evil spell on me. As it turned out, Debbie  who later became a state representative  had a warm personality, a friendly smile and a delightful sense of humor. At least she laughed at my goofy one-liners when we were off camera.

Maybe along the way, Debbie saw that I didnt have a forked tongue or an eye in the middle of my forehead. But the show went on and, I suppose, we presented our cases well. I received a few pats on the back from co-workers at the Post Register and Im sure that Debbie received some high-fives from Republicans for putting that rotten Chuck Malloy in his place.

I doubt if many minds were changed. But we had some fun in the process.

Todays version of political bias wars is not so civil. Hoffman has been making snide comments about the media for years and recently he joined two other fellow conservatives  Greg Pruett of Idaho Dispatch and podcaster Bryan Hyde  in a forum about how to handle media malpractice. There were no clear examples of media bias on the reporting end, but some general comments about how the media has shifted to the left. They also talked about how the liberal media used terms such as far right and extremists to describe legislators.

To at least some followers of Waynes world, descriptions can be based on how legislators score on Hoffmans Freedom Index. Those who score high are principled conservatives who can do no wrong  even when they do something ridiculous. Any Republican who grades low is clearly a RINO.

Betsy Russell of the Idaho Press, who has spent four decades reporting on Idaho politics and is president of the Idaho Press Club, takes exception to the idea that Idahos media has taken a turn to the left.

Thats not true, she wrote. Ive been here all along, and I know this from first-hand experience. I still do what Ive always done: Seek the truth and report. Hoffmans continued agitation against real journalists is encouraging his followers to engage in actual harassment against the hard-working reporters who work to bring you the news every day. It needs to stop.

From what Ive seen, reporting from the Capitol is as strong as it has ever been. Betsy and the Lewiston Tribunes Bill Spence are two of the best in Idaho. Then you have the Idaho Capital Sun, Idaho Education News and the Associated Press covering the Statehouse from all angles. With all the veteran reporters, and institutional knowledge, its not a pleasant environment for politicians who stonewall the media, dance around the truth, or outright lie.

What Hoffman is doing, says Russell, is so repugnant that it cries out for robust denunciation.

Of course, to the far-right extremists  or whatever you want to call them  a denunciation from Betsy Russell is the best thing that can happen for their cause. And Hoffmans as well. With Waynes backing, conservatives will go on thinking that the reporting profession is filled by left-wing socialists.
A Bassett High School student is in detention at a facility in Danville after charges related to a firearm at school.

At about 11:30 this morning, Bassett High School faculty were made aware that a student was in possession of a firearm inside the school, a press release from the Henry County Sheriff's Office stated.
A dance party held recently at the Marion Community Building proved to be a big success and more events are planned to be held there.

The dance party took place the evening of Saturday, July 30, at the Community Building. It kicked off with a lesson in ballroom rhumba, the genre of ballroom music and dance that combines big band music and Afro-Cuban rhythms. Then, the dance party continued into the evening.

Dance instructors Missy Lindsey and Lee Starr led the group. They have been professional ballroom and country dance instructors for more than 30 years. Both are competitive dancers and have taught dancing at the Asheville Ballroom in the past. They are now bringing their fancy steps to Marion.

In February, Lindsey and Starr held dance classes at the Municipal Event Center in the Larry D. Miller Complex.

Lindsey told The McDowell News that she was extremely pleased with the turnout for July 30.

The night of the dance was the worst storm, she said. So as I was setting up for the party, I was thinking the numbers would be low because of the weather, and being our first dance, and almost an hour or more for most of our dancers.

Much to her surprise, dancers kept coming in before the dance lesson which was at 7:15 p.m. She said she had approximately 40 people for the dance lesson, which was amazing.

Then, the rest of the group showed to add up to over 70 people in attendance, she told The McDowell News. I was over the moon. There were people from Asheville, Weaverville, Hendersonville, Arden, Tryon, Rutherfordton, Morganton, Forest City, Hickory, Greenville, S.C., and I am sure some areas I was not aware of.

Also, a couple who was visiting from Florida and one person who was camping in the area came to the dance. The Marion Dance Club had 12 members there in attendance.

A lot of people I did not know, and a lot of my regulars, said Lindsey. I was so pleased to see all the different groups of people come together and dance. I am sure everyone made quite a number of new friends that night. We did all the ballroom dances, country, salsa, East and West Coast and much more. All types of genres were played. The dance floor stayed packed.

Bill Hodge, who has worked in education in McDowell County for many years, was one of those dancers who enjoyed the evening.

Last Saturday, Linda and I had an evening of dancing at the Marion Community Building, he posted on Facebook. Our McDowell Dance Club which celebrated 35 years as a club had to make a decision about its future. Now Missy Lindsey, a professional ballroom dancer, is hosting dance instruction followed by dancing at the Marion Community Building. Our large turnout was a big surprise. If you have wanted some dance lessons and a chance to try out the steps on the dance floor, here is an opportunity.

Another dance event is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 27, at the Marion Community Building. Like the one last month, there will be a dance lesson at 7:15 p.m. (included in the price of admission) and it will be taught by Lindsey and Starr. The lesson will be West Coast swing. The dance party is from 8-10:30 p.m. Admission is $12 per person (cash or credit card accepted) and dress is casual dress.

If you have not danced, you can come and enjoy lots of fun music, and we can even show you some basic steps to get you on the floor, Lindsey said. If you are apprehensive about coming to the dance, dont be. Dancers are the most fun and laid back people there are. And they love to meet new people, and show you some fun dance moves that they know.

There will be other dances in Marion on Oct. 29, Nov. 26 and Dec. 10 (Christmas dance). More details will be announced later. Lindsey also has group and private lessons in Marion on Wednesday and Thursdays.

For more information, contact Missy Lindsey through Facebook at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010847855188 or by email at missylindseydance@gmail.com.
The body of a missing Asheville man was found Monday afternoon near Old Fort.

Authorities located human remains in a remote area of Curtis Creek in McDowell County. Detectives with the McDowell County Sheriffs Office believe the body is that of 20-year-old Gabe Focaracci who has been missing from the Asheville area since Friday, June 24. Deputies and rescue personnel made the discovery in a steep and rugged ravine around one mile from where his car was found on Tuesday, July 12. An autopsy will be conducted this week, according to a news release.

In total, nine searches were made by authorities since the discovery of his car.

I would like to thank the brave men and women from all the different agencies and organizations who have assisted us with these searches. The area is rugged, steep, and very dangerous to operate in, said Sheriff Ricky Buchanan.

The discovery was made by members of the McDowell County Sheriffs Office, McDowell Emergency Management, North Carolina Emergency Management Mountain Rescue Team, McDowell EMS and members of Randalls Adventure Training Search and Rescue (RATSAR) out of Alabama.

The sheriffs office would also like to thank the Old Fort Fire Department, Crooked Creek Fire Department, Marion Fire Department, Hankins Fire Department, McDowell Rescue Squad, N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission and numerous K-9 teams for their help with previous searches, according to the news release.

The family of Gabe Focaracci offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to his safe return.

On Monday, Focaraccis parents released a statement on social media that his body was found.

Gabes body was found around 1PM today, reads the statement. It took most of the afternoon to get his body recovered. Our sons body will be sent to Winston-Salem where an autopsy will be performed. I thank God that we now have Gabe & we can take him home to Georgia (some parents never get their childs body back).

In this statement, his parents expressed their gratitude for the McDowell County Sheriffs Office, the leadership of Capt. Shanon Smith and his entire team and the multiple agencies and organizations that participated in the search.

They were determined to find Gabe; they refused to give up on our family, reads the statement. A most gracious thank you to the specialized team of mountain climbers who are experts in rappelling from the northern Alabama who were successful in locating our precious Gabe today.

We also very much appreciate everyone from the Asheville community & the surrounding area for their constant prayers & continuous pursuit to finding our son over the last 6 weeks. Please keep Gabes only sibling in your prayers.
South Africa and Botswana have agreed to fund the improvement and extension of rail links between the countries in a bid to boost trade and better connect Botswana to export markets.

According to the statement (5 August) by South African state-owned logistics firm Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), the company will collaborate with Botswana Rail (BR) to fix parts of the 126 km rail line between Swartruggens, in South Africas North West province, and Mafikeng, on the border with Botswana, helping South Africas landlocked northern neighbor get its minerals, including thermal coal, to market.

European countries are scrambling to meet their coal needs after a ban on imports of the fossil fuel from Russia, and coal-rich countries like Botswana are looking to cash in on the surge in demand. The rail revamp will enable heavy haul trains to travel from Botswana to South Africas ports of Richards Bay and Durban, TFR said. The project aims to be up and running in the next 24 months. Financial terms were not disclosed.

TFR and BR will also build a rail line from Mamabula in Botswana to Lephalale in South Africas Limpopo province. Moreover, the two rail companies will collaborate to fight the scourge of cable theft and infrastructure vandalism that is impacting rail services, TFR said, adding this was a rising problem in Botswana. Massive-scale theft of copper cables in South Africa has dented TFRs ability to transport minerals such as coal and prompted some miners to use trucks instead of trains.
The Somali governments new leadership is facing a series of challenges as mortar shells hit neighborhoods near the presidential palace in Somalias capital Mogadishu last Sunday without causing casualties, shortly after the parliament approved the governments composition.

Somalia, already threatened by looming famine with the worst drought in 40 years, has faced intensifying attacks by the Islamist Shebab insurgency in recent months.

On Sunday, several mortar shells were fired at civilian areas in the Warta-Nabadda district, close to the presidential palace, said Mohamed Abdifatah, one of the security officials in the area. No casualties have been reported so far and an investigation is underway, he said. One witness said a shell damaged a private hospital.

The attacks, which have not been claimed, come after the parliament met on Sunday and endorsed the composition of the government presented on August 2 by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, by 229 votes in favor, seven against and one abstention.

Mr. Barre, appointed on June 15 by the new President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud, elected in May, has formed a team of 75 ministers and deputy ministers.

Among them, Muktar Robow, 53, alias Abu Mansour, a former leader of the radical Islamist Shebab, linked to al-Qaeda jihadists and from whom he defected in 2017. He serves as minister of religious affairs.

The US embassy in Mogadishu on Sunday congratulated Mohamoud and Barre on the parliaments approval of the new government, stressing that the United States would continue to work with them to bring about a Somali renaissance.
At least four soldiers, two civilians and five assailants were killed in an attack, attributed to jihadist groups, on a locality where a military camp is located, Tessit, in the so-called three-border zone between Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger, the Malian army said Monday.

The toll could be much higher for the Malian army, said several sources on the ground who could not be named for security reasons. The two civilians are locally elected officials, relatives of the victims said.

The Tessit sector, located on the Malian side of the Tri-border area, in a vast rural zone not controlled by the state, is frequently the scene of clashes and attacks.

Armed groups affiliated to al-Qaeda, under the umbrella of the Groupe de soutien a lIslam et aux musulmans (GSIM, JNIM in Arabic), are fighting the Islamic States group in the Greater Sahara (EIGS). The jihadists are seeking control of this strategic and gold-rich area.

The Malian army, based in a military camp next to the town of Tessit, has often been attacked in this region. In this area, sometimes called the Malian Gourma, there are also peacekeepers from the UN mission in Mali and, until a few months ago, French soldiers from the Barkhane operation.

As for civilians, as elsewhere in Mali, they are caught in the crossfire between these actors in the conflict, and accused of being allied with one when they are not with the other. Thousands of the inhabitants of the area have fled, notably to the large neighboring town of Gao, some 150 km away.
It took five months, but it is now a done deal: Chadian transitional president Mahamat Idriss Deby and several rebel groups have finally reached an agreement. The text was signed on Monday, August 8 in Doha, and should allow the participation of political-military in the inclusive national dialogue of August 20. The international community welcomed this text, a key moment for the Chadian people, according to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

The head of the junta in Chad, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, signed the agreement with some forty rebel factions on the opening of a national dialogue for peace on August 20 in NDjamena. However, two of the main rebel movements refused to participate.

The agreement first provides for a general ceasefire upon signature. It commits the rebel camp and the Transitional Military Council to take no military action against each other. The parties must also implement a DDR program, for Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration.

An amnesty law for convicted rebels is also foreseen, and the security of armed group members and their relatives is guaranteed by the Chadian authorities. In return, the politico-military groups must definitively renounce armed struggle and violent action. They undertake to cease all recruitment of new fighters and to declare their numbers and weapons. Each party promises to release prisoners captured in the various clashes.

Finally, the agreement provides for a national dialogue, which will focus in particular on the reform of the army and the revision of the transitional charter, as well as the non-participation of members of the transition in the next elections.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

New research involving patients in intensive care has highlighted that propofol, an anesthetic drug commonly used to facilitate invasive mechanical ventilation, increases cardiovascular complications risk in the critically ill.

This collaborative international study, led by Professor John Laffey at NUI Galway and researchers at the University of Milan-Bicocca, sought to understand the impact of airway management in critically ill patients.

Dr. John Laffey, Professor of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine at the University's School of Medicine and Consultant in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine at Galway University Hospitals, has led an international research team investigating the causes and impact of peri-intubation cardiovascular instability in almost 3,000 critically ill patients.

This research is part of the International Observational Study to Understand the Impact and Best Practices of Airway Management in Critically Ill Patients (INTUBE) which is investigating global practice in performing tracheal intubation in patients from 29 countries.

The paper was published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine.

As part of this research, the investigators identified important modifiable, previously poorly understood risk factors that increase the risk of critically ill patients developing shock and cardiovascular instability when undergoing urgent tracheal intubation to permit invasive mechanical ventilation, commonly referred to as 'life support'.

The identification of variables that can be modified through changes in clinical practice was explored as part of this study and evidence suggests that one commonly used anesthetic agent has a major role in the incidence of cardiac arrest and hypertension after intubation.

Professor Laffey explains that "airway management is universal but prior to the INTUBE study data on the management of intubated patients has been scarce. Identifying risks is the first step in developing safer management approaches."

"Tracheal intubation is one of the most high-risk and frequently performed procedures in patients who are critically ill. Cardiovascular adverse events like low blood pressure and even cardiac arrest can be frequent after intubation. Different factors play a role in the increased risk in patients who are critically ill compared with patients undergoing the procedure for elective surgical procedures."

"To date, the research agenda on interventions to reduce risk in these patients in critical care has mainly focused on oxygenation optimization and on methods to achieve intubation at the first attempt."

"In our recent research as part of the INTUBE study we have identified that the commonly used anesthetic drugpropofolis strongly associated with an increase in the incidence of cardiac arrest and severe hypotension after intubation. This is an important discovery, and the first time that this has been investigated in a truly global patient cohort such as the INTUBE study."

"As a result of this study it is our intention to conduct further clinical trials to develop and test alternative strategies to reduce the risk and severity or cardiovascular adverse events in critically ill patients requiring urgent tracheal intubation. In the meantime, our data strongly suggests that propofol use should be restricted in this patient group and even avoided where possible."

"Training in the use of this specialized drug is key. The drug suppresses reflexes which makes it particularly good for intubation, but equally it appears to be be this suppression that is causing risks for patients."

Explore further PREPARE II trial results measure effectiveness of fluid bolus to prevent circulatory failure

More information: Vincenzo Russotto et al, Peri-intubation Cardiovascular Collapse in Critically Ill Patients: Insights from the INTUBE Study, American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine (2022). Journal information: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine Vincenzo Russotto et al, Peri-intubation Cardiovascular Collapse in Critically Ill Patients: Insights from the INTUBE Study,(2022). DOI: 10.1164/rccm.202111-2575OC
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) said that R&D Centre employs Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) to promote Dewas efforts to enrich the experience of customers, employees, and stakeholders.



This also aims to reduce costs and carbon emissions in addition to promoting energy efficiency, smart grid integration and improving the performance of photovoltaic solar panels, reported Emirates News Agency WAM.



"Dewa started its AI journey in 2017 with a road map for AI applications. We launched several services and initiatives that use AI to add value to the customer, employee and stakeholder experience. Dewa is one of the first government organisations in Dubai to use self-assessment tools to ensure it is using the most critical AI applications ethically with corrective measures as needed," said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dewa.



Al Tayer noted that the R&D Centre at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park supports innovation in all production and operational areas, becoming a global platform to enhance the operations and services of Dewas divisions.



Energy Efficiency The R&D Centre employs AI, ML, and DL to analyse load consumption, and develop expansion plans for Dewa to raise energy efficiency and improve demand-side management. The application of AI in big-data analytics for building performance gives rise to improved benchmarking tools, to validate energy project simulations, and leads to a better understanding of energy usage. It also enables the quantification of cooling loads in Dubai buildings and identifies how these impact Dewas peak power demand.



The use of AI on smart metre data through ML & DL models helps to identify the various electrical appliances in use, detect faulty devices and forecast peak load periods and profiles. These technologies allow improved energy storage and load distribution management, while indicating opportunities for energy retrofits in buildings. It also increases the efficiency of energy generation reserve, reduces carbon dioxide emissions and saves 20 percent on costs.



Smart Grid Integration The Centre uses smart metre data with machine learning to provide insights into the LV networks. It uses sensor measurements and Internet of Things (IoT), historic asset load, inspection and maintenance data to diagnose critical assets and predict faults, and estimate the Remaining Useful Life (RUL).



Moreover, it detects potential interruption for medium volt cables; uses the AI-based interruption data record to predict the tripping of protection relays, and the set-points on the high voltage network to remove congestion. It deploys fault detection and predictive maintenance solutions to improve key Dewa metrics like the Customer Minutes Lost (CML) and the System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI).



Solar Resources and Forecasting programme The programme develops multiple models for evaluating solar resources, the amount of solar radiation and the expected production capacity of solar energy systems, based on AI and ML, and neural networks of all kinds such as Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), Long short-term memory (LSTM) networks, XGBoost, and UNET.



Solar forecasting research group Deep Learning and neural networks are applied to detect clouds and fog from sky cameras and satellite images by means of a multiResnet network which improves the popular UNET model for computer vision, and reduce costs, and carbon emissions by increasing the generation of solar power.



Solar cell programme The Centre uses AI in conjunction with material science - termed materials informatics, to develop environmentally compatible lead-free materials for high-efficiency novel economic solar cells.



Improving the performance of photovoltaic solar panels The Centre uses deep learning to detect soiling and dust spots on photovoltaic panels and enhance the thermal images captured by Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and Real-Time Kinetic Energy systems. The Centre published several research papers in international scientific conferences on Autonomous PV panel detection using a drone; and Enhanced PV Panel Detection Using Drones Equipped with RTK.




Electron micrographs of hepatitis C virus purified from cell culture. Scale bar is 50 nanometers. Credit: Center for the Study of Hepatitis C, The Rockefeller University.

US health authorities warned Tuesday of a large number of untreated hepatitis C patients, despite the fact that a cure for the dangerous disease has been available for a decade.

They urged health insurance companies and other health care organizations to remove administrative and other "barriers" to life-saving care.

Fewer than one in three people in the United States with health insurance receive treatment for hepatitis C within a year of diagnosis, according to a report published Tuesday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Antiviral treatment consists of taking pills orally for a few weeks.

"Almost overnight, hepatitis C went from a deadly lifelong chronic infection to something easily cured by medications," said Jonathan Mermin, head of the CDC's center for HIV, viral hepatitis, STD and tuberculosis prevention.

But the initial price of treatment has led many insurance companies to create "barriers" to access, he said, which have sometimes remained in place despite a sharp drop in cost in recent years.

Mermin listed some of the stringent prerequisites, including that liver damage already be observed to begin treatment, that the doctor receive prior authorization from insurance companies, or that the patient abstain from drugs or alcohol for several months.

"No barrier, including paperwork or profits, should keep people from life-saving treatments," he said.

Hepatitis C, for which there is no vaccine, is transmitted primarily through blood contact. The highest rates of infection are in people under age 40.

The most common mode of infection is through the injection of drugs.

Health officials are calling for the promotion of free needle exchange programs, where people can exchange used needles for clean ones.

If left untreated, hepatitis C can become chronic, sometimes over decades, with serious complications including cirrhosis or liver cancer.

In 2019, hepatitis C contributed to the deaths of about 14,000 people in the United States, and 290,000 people worldwide.

The number of new US infections is increasing: it currently stands around 60,000 cases per year, four times higher than a decade ago.

Health authorities estimate that nearly 40 percent of infected people in the United States do not know they have hepatitis C.

The CDC recommends that everyone get tested at least once in their lifetime and that people at risk get tested regularly.

Explore further Hepatitis C nearly triples in US in 5 years

 2022 AFP
Many, but not all, of the bounce house accidents the researchers logged occurred in states where there are no regulations governing bounce house use (shown here in red). Credit: Lindsay Robinson

It's all fun and games until someone gets hurt  or dies. And a lack of regulations and oversight surrounding a popular, easily rentable party feature could be putting tens of thousands of children at risk, according to new research from the University of Georgia.

The study found at least 479 people were injured and 28 died worldwide in more than 130 bounce house accidents due to weather events since 2000. But the researchers caution that these estimates are likely an undercount.

These injuries are on top of an estimated 10,000 ER visits in the U.S. each year because of bounce house-related accidents that regularly result in broken bones, muscle sprains and concussions.

"These bounce houses aren't something to set up and then forget to stake them into the ground," said John Knox, lead author of the study and a geography professor in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences. "What could go wrong? The answer is that it could blow away in winds that are not anywhere near severe levels. Some of these cases were in purely clear skies."

Many of the wind-related accidents happened on what seemed to be good weather days, according to the research: a cool and sunny day after a cold front with clear skies, a hot but calm day that triggers a dust devil or a nice summer day with a thunderstorm somewhere off in the distance. More than 80 of the 132 events identified by the study were caused by cold fronts or post-cold front conditions, dust devils and overhead or distant thunderstorms.

Even minor wind speeds pose risk to playhouse safety

Also known as bouncy houses, magic castles, jumping balloons or bounce castles, the portable playhouses are common fixtures at birthday parties, carnivals and even wedding receptions. They cost less than $100 to rent on average in the U.S. and are an easy and fun way to keep kids (and some adults) entertained for hours.

But the study found it didn't take high wind speeds to tip the inflatable playhouses over, loft them into the air or send them bouncing along the ground for yards, often while people were still inside.

"There was a case in Southern California where one of the bounce houses got picked up by the wind and dropped in the middle of a highway with a boy still inside the playhouse," said Thomas Gill, second author on the paper and a professor of environmental science at the University of Texas at El Paso. "When the winds get to be too much, these bounce houses need not only to be evacuated but also deflated. There have been cases where a bounce house was empty, but it blew away and struck a bystander."

Basic precautions such as securely staking bounce houses into the ground, attaching sandbags to weigh the structure down and monitoring windspeeds and other dangerous weather conditions likely could've prevented many, if not all, of the accidents, the researchers said.

But fewer than half of the states in the U.S. have explicit statutes and regulations for safe bounce house usage, the study found. Seventeen states have no guidelines at all or specifically exclude inflatables like bounce houses from regulation.

Of the ones that do have regulations, most do not explicitly state weather and wind conditions required for safe use.

"The regulatory landscape is all over the place from one state to another," Knox said. "From our perspective, this isn't good enough. Bounce houses need to be attended by someone who is weather-wise and can recognize when winds are at an unsafe level."

Only 19 states' regulations cite the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards, which set a maximum wind gust speed of 25 miles per hour unless the bounce house has been secured by a professional engineer. The standards also require a meteorologically savvy attendant on site for commercial bounce house use.

Of the 132 bounce house incidents, though, more than one out of every five actually occurred with wind speeds lower than those deemed unsafe by the ASTM standards. Over a third of the accidents occurred with observed wind speeds between 0 and 20 miles per hour, and more than half occurred at or below the 25 mile per hour mark.

"Ahead of a strong wind event, we encourage people to secure outdoor items and remove loose tree limbs to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up," said Danielle Nagele, a public program coordinator at the National Weather Service who was not involved in the study. "New information and research, such as this study, can help improve public awareness of wind-related risks."

Monitor weather, secure bounce house and monitor play to keep children safe

The present publication is the first academic study to examine wind-related bounce house accidents.

The researchers spent a decade searching for wind-related incidents, resulting in tens of thousands of Google searches and alerts to plot the locations, date and weather conditions of each of the 132 documented cases found globally. Multiple authors conducted independent analyses using a variety of sources including National Weather Service observations and satellite imagery to classify the weather conditions. The researchers also performed independent analyses and classifications of state regulations for inflatable devices.

The researchers used this information to create a website to document their findings and provide safety tips for consumers.

The most important things people can do to safely enjoy bounce houses are to keep an eye on the weather, set up bounce houses correctly with stakes and/or sandbags and always have an adult monitoring the behavior of bounce house users.

"Make taking wind measurements part of the fun of the event," Gill said. "Wind-related incidents and accidents are just a small part of the overall safety hazard of bounce houses. While they're a lot of fun, there are dangers with them, and people need to take those seriously."

The study was recently published online in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society.

Explore further Study shows heat dangers of inflatable bounce houses

More information: John A. Knox et al, Wind-Related Bounce House Incidents in Meteorological, Regulatory, and Outreach Contexts, Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society (2022). Journal information: Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society John A. Knox et al, Wind-Related Bounce House Incidents in Meteorological, Regulatory, and Outreach Contexts,(2022). DOI: 10.1175/BAMS-D-21-0160.1
As rates of youth mental health issues soar in the United States, new research offers surprising insights into how social factors affect trends for LGBTQ+ youth, who are especially at risk due to the harmful effects of discrimination.

Psychology Professor Phil Hammack, director of the Sexual and Gender Diversity Laboratory at the University of California, Santa Cruz, led a study that combined survey data, interviews, and ethnographic field notes to compare mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ youth across some of California's most and least supportive communities for sexual and gender diversity.

The results showed remarkably little difference in outcomes between communities during the 2015 to 2017 study period. Overall, 41% of LGBTQ+ teens surveyed reported clinically-concerning levels of depressive symptoms, compared to a rate of 10% for those same symptoms among all California adolescents, as estimated by prior epidemiological studies.

"It was really surpring that the level of community support for sexual and gender diversity did not seem to make much of a difference for the mental health of these youth, because the communities we studied had such strikingly different levels of LGBTQ resources and visibility," Hammack said. "When we first looked at our survey results, we were so shocked that we re-ran the analysis several times, just to be sure."

Stigma and mental health impacts extend across communities

The study focused in particular on comparing the Bay Area and California's Central Valley, regions with higher and lower levels of support for sexual and gender diversity, according to an eight-factor community climate assessment conducted by the research team. Differences between the regions included the proportion of LGBTQ+ supportive businesses and religious and political affiliates, the proportion of same-sex households, and the availability of LGBTQ+ resources and celebrations.

The research team surveyed 314 teens across these regions to get a sense for how they perceived their community, the types of stigma and discrimination or support and belonging that they experienced, and the incidence of depressive symptoms. Survey findings were supplemented with depth and context from 28 interviews with regional LGBTQ+ youth leaders and observations from ethnographic field work in each community.

The findings revealed that youth in the Bay Area did perceive their community as being more supportive of LGBTQ+ people, while youth in the Central Valley perceived their communities as less supportive. Youth in the Central Valley also reported experiencing more anti-LGBTQ+ remarks and feeling higher levels of stigma, while youth in the Bay Area felt more empowerment. But the statistically significant differences in youth outcomes ended there.

Across communities, in addition to high rates of depressive symptoms, researchers found that 41% of all youth surveyed had experienced targeted victimization, such as bullying, around their LGBTQ+ identities, and 59% had experienced discrimination. Teens said they believed that bullying, internalized stigmatization, identity concealment, and fear of rejection were all contributing to depressive symptoms among young members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those symptoms often manifested in anxiety and depression, as well as self-harm.

The widespread nature of these challenges across communities is concerning from a public health perspective, Hammack says. For decades, researchers have been documenting a wide range of disparities in health outcomes between LGBTQ+ people, who face social stigma for their gender and sexual identities, and cisgender heterosexual people, who do not. Higher rates of mental health issues, like depression and stress, are linked with other health problems, like early mortality and cardiovascular disease.

Uncovering possible causes and solutions

The persistence of these disparities, despite significant efforts to address them in some communities, may signal a need for more systemic changes to support youth in Generation Z, who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community at higher rates than any prior generation.

"Our findings suggest that the health disparities we've been seeing for many years still remain for Gen Z, and a highly resourced community is not enough to buffer the negative impact of broader social stigma," he said. "It's easy to fall into an illusion of thinking that if we can just create a safe bubble in our community, then everything will be okay, but the reality is that we exist within a larger culture where oppressive, prejudicial ideas about gender and sexuality are still out there and, if anything, those ideas have been emboldened in recent years."

The research team also documented another trend, during in-depth interviews with LGBTQ+ teens, that may help to explain some of the lack of difference in mental health outcomes across communities. Youth perceptions of their community's level of supportiveness seemed to affect expectations for what life would be like as an LGBTQ+ person in that community. Teens in lower-support communities had low expectations for how they would be treated and expressed optimism that things would get better, while teens in higher-support communities had high expectations that sometimes went unmet.

"Teens in the Bay Area expected LGBTQ issues to be part of formal school curricula, and they expected teachers to get pronouns right, but teens in the Central Valley weren't expecting those things, so they didn't miss not having them as much," Hammack explained. "This speaks to how experience translates into mental health through how we're interpreting our environment and constructing our expectations. In this case, differing expectations may actually cancel out the effects of different levels of material support in these communities."

The study did also uncover some community resources that teens found to be particularly helpful, including mental health services, online and in-person support resources, and peer social support. And teens recommended that mental health providers receive more cultural competence training around sexual and gender diversity. Many reported being disappointed with counselors who did not seem to understand LGBTQ+ identities or terminology. Hammack says continuing education for psychologists and psychiatrists could help to address that issue.

Overall, though, he believes the study shows the importance of scaling up LGBTQ+ support efforts across society.

"Young people are looking to adults to change the culture," Hammack said. "Teens have higher expectations of adults, schools, and society, and we're not meeting them. It's not just about small aspects of the local environment. We need a bigger sea change in our culture for stigma to be reduced. Otherwise, we'll continue to see major mental health challenges and disparities."

More information: Phillip L. Hammack et al, Community support for sexual and gender diversity, minority stress, and mental health: A mixed-methods study of adolescents with minoritized sexual and gender identities., Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity (2022). Phillip L. Hammack et al, Community support for sexual and gender diversity, minority stress, and mental health: A mixed-methods study of adolescents with minoritized sexual and gender identities.,(2022). DOI: 10.1037/sgd0000591
Robert Terwilliger, right, of Williamsburg, Pa., who is participating in a Lyme disease vaccine trial at the Altoona Center for Clinical Research, is injected with either the new vaccine or a placebo, by registered nurse Janae Roland, Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, in Duncansville, Pa. Lyme is a growing problem, with cases steadily rising and warming weather helping ticks expand their habitat. Credit: AP Photo/Gary M. Baranec

Researchers are seeking thousands of volunteers in the U.S. and Europe to test the first potential vaccine against Lyme disease in 20 yearsin hopes of better fighting the tick-borne threat.

Lyme is a growing problem, with cases rising and warming weather helping ticks expand their habitat. While a vaccine for dogs has long been available, the only Lyme vaccine for humans was pulled off the U.S. market in 2002 from lack of demand, leaving people to rely on bug spray and tick checks.

Now Pfizer and French biotech Valneva are aiming to avoid previous pitfalls in developing a new vaccine to protect both adults and kids as young as 5 from the most common Lyme strains on two continents.

"There wasn't such a recognition, I think, of the severity of Lyme disease" and how many people it affects the last time around, Pfizer vaccine chief Annaliesa Anderson told The Associated Press.

Robert Terwilliger, an avid hunter and hiker, was first in line Friday when the study opened in central Pennsylvania. He's seen lots of friends get Lyme and is tired of wondering if his next tick bite will make him sick.

"It's always a worry, you know? Especially when you're sitting in a tree stand hunting and you feel something crawling on you," said Terwilliger, 60, of Williamsburg, Pennsylvania. "You've got to be very, very cautious."

Away from volunteers participating in a new Lyme disease vaccine trial, registered nurse Janae Roland, prepares either the vaccine or a placebo at the Altoona Center for Clinical Research, Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, in Duncansville, Pa. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cites insurance records suggesting 476,000 people are treated for the the tick-borne disease in the U.S. each year. Credit: AP Photo/Gary M. Baranec

Exactly how often Lyme disease strikes isn't clear. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cites insurance records suggesting 476,000 people are treated for Lyme in the U.S. each year. Pfizer's Anderson put Europe's yearly infections at about 130,000.

Black-legged ticks, also called deer ticks, carry Lyme-causing bacteria. The infection initially causes fatigue, fever and joint pain. Oftenbut not alwaysthe first sign is a red, round bull's-eye rash.

Early antibiotic treatment is crucial, but it can be hard for people to tell if they were bitten by ticks, some as small as a pin. Untreated Lyme can cause severe arthritis and damage the heart and nervous system. Some people have lingering symptoms even after treatment.

Most vaccines against other diseases work after people are exposed to a germ. The Lyme vaccine offers a different strategyworking a step earlier to block a tick bite from transmitting the infection, said Dr. Gary Wormser, a Lyme expert at New York Medical College who isn't involved with the new research.

Dr. Alan Kivitz, right, a rheumatologist at the Altoona Center for Clinical Research describes future steps involved in a new Lyme disease vaccine trial to Robert Terwilliger of Williamsburg, Pa., who was the first volunteer to receive either the vaccine or a placebo Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, in Duncansville, Pa. Black-legged ticks, also called deer ticks, carry Lyme-causing bacteria. The infection initially causes fatigue, fever and joint pain. Often -- but not always -- the first sign is a red, round bull's-eye rash. Credit: AP Photo/Gary M. Baranec

How? It targets an "outer surface protein" of the Lyme bacterium called OspA that's present in the tick's gut. It's estimated a tick must feed on someone for about 36 hours before the bacteria spreads to its victim. That delay gives time for antibodies the tick ingests from a vaccinated person's blood to attack the germs right at the source.

In small, early-stage studies, Pfizer and Valneva reported no safety problems and a good immune response. The newest study will test if the vaccine, called VLA15, really protects and is safe. The companies aim to recruit at least 6,000 people in Lyme-prone areas including the Northeast U.S. plus Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden.

They'll receive three shots, either the vaccine or a placebo, between now and next spring's tick season. A year later, they'll get a single booster dose.

"We're really looking at something that's a seasonal vaccine," Anderson said, so people have high antibody levels during the months when ticks are most active.

Janae Roland, a registered nurse at the Altoona Center for Clinical Research begins the process of preparing refrigerated doses of a new Lyme disease vaccine Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, in Duncansville, Pa. Credit: AP Photo/Gary M. Baranec

Volunteers can be as young as 5 and should be at high risk because they spend a lot of time in tick-infested areas, such as hikers, campers and hunters, said Dr. Alan Kivitz who heads one of the study sites at Altoona Center for Clinical Research in Duncansville, Pennsylvania.

In his own practice, "not a single day goes by that someone either has a concern about Lyme disease, could possibly have Lyme disease," Kivitz said.

This new candidate is different from a previous Lyme vaccine that GlaxoSmithKline pulled off the market in 2002 amid controversy and low sales. With about 75% effectiveness, that old Lyme shot got a lukewarm endorsement from vaccine experts, wasn't tested in children and drew unsubstantiated reports of joint-related side effects.

While the new Pfizer-Valneva vaccine also targets the OspA protein, it's engineered somewhat differently than its predecessor and also targets six Lyme strains in the U.S. and Europe instead of just one.

Away from volunteers participating in a new Lyme disease vaccine trial registered nurse Janae Roland, at the Altoona Center for Clinical Research prepares either the vaccine or a placebo Friday, Aug. 5, 2022, in Duncansville, Pa. Credit: AP Photo/Gary M. Baranec

The Pfizer study will span two tick seasons to get answersbut it's not the only research into new ways to prevent Lyme. University of Massachusetts scientists are working on a vaccine alternative, shots of pre-made Lyme-fighting antibodies.

And Yale University researchers are in early stages of designing a vaccine that recognizes a tick's salivawhich in animal testing sparked a skin reaction that made it harder for ticks to hang on and feed.

Since different tick species carry many diseases other than Lyme, ultimately "we're all hoping for a tick-bite prevention vaccine," Wormser said.

Explore further Research into preventive shot for Lyme disease continues to move forward

 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Shutterstock

So far, there have been 57 confirmed and probable cases of monkeypox reported by Australian authorities.

In July, the Australian government issued a health alert for monkeypox as a communicable disease following the World Health Organization's declaration of it as a public health emergency.

The disease has been reported at higher rates among men who have sex with other men. But this does not mean it can't be spread to anyone. In fact, it has been seen in pregnant and birthing women and their newborn babies in some Western countries.

What do we know about monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral disease spread between animals and people.

The U.K. government guidance described the first case of "Monkey Pox" in 1958, when it was found in monkeys used for research purposes.

It was 1970 when it was first reported in human populations in the African country, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The disease is now endemic in some African countries including Nigeria, Liberia, Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

What does this mean for pregnant women?

Fortunately, monkeypox does not spread easily. The infection is spread by close physical contact, and so far there is limited information available about the impact on pregnancy, particularly in high income countries.

The virus can enter the body via broken skin, the respiratory tract or mucous membranes (the moist inner lining of cavities and some organs in the body).

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises the virus can be transmitted to a baby before birth via the placenta, and after the baby is born by close physical contact.

It also recommends pregnant, postnatal and breastfeeding women should be prioritized for medical treatment as there is a significant risk to the baby.

The Australian government's treatment guidelines identify pregnant and breastfeeding women at high risk of severe disease from monkeypox infection. They also identify these groups as eligible for treatment and encourage health care providers to consult infectious disease specialists.

What symptoms should you watch for?

Symptoms of monkeypox can include headaches and fever, muscle and joint pain, tiredness, swollen lymph glands and a telltale rash with lesions that develop anywhere on the body.

The lesions change and will eventually burst, scab over and heal. The amount and location of the lesions can vary from lots all over the body to only a few that are isolated to one or two areas.

Deadly for some

The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control has said most people (who are not pregnant) have mild disease with recovery within a few weeks, but that the Nigerian cases have had a fatality rate of roughly 3%. Mortality is likely higher in vulnerable groups such as newborn babies and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

A recent paper published in medical journal The Lancet provides guidelines for doctors and midwives on the management of monkeypox infection during pregnancy. These guidelines include increased fetal monitoring and increased surveillance of the mother in hospital isolation rooms if necessary, depending on her symptoms.

If the woman has genital lesions at the time of birth, she may be offered a cesarean. The newborn baby will need careful monitoring and precautions to reduce the risk of transmission from the mother. Consultation with a specialist infectious diseases pediatrician is recommended in these cases.

The Australian government has supplies of a monkeypox vaccine called Jynneos, and this may be considered in cases in which a woman has had close physical contact with an infected person or meets other criteria. The safety profile of this medication in pregnancy is unknown, but it is thought to be able to be used following a risk and benefit analysis by the medical practitioner. Women should not seek vaccination without risk factors being present.

Read more about what we know about monkeypox in pregnancy, including treatment recommendations, vaccination, and postpartum care.https://t.co/Ya5nTS3X1a  Dermatology Times (@DermTimesNow) July 30, 2022

Known cases

Several cases of monkeypox infection were reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a part of a larger study. The study wasn't specifically looking at pregnant women, but four women were found to be pregnant in the study of more than 200 people with monkeypox infection.

Of the four women with monkeypox infection in pregnancy, two experienced miscarriage, one gave birth to a stillborn baby, and one gave birth to a living full-term baby. The three women who had fetal losses all experienced moderate to severe disease and lost their babies either in the first or second trimester of pregnancy.

Australian women shouldn't be overly concerned at this stage given the low numbers of infected people in Australia. Women are highly unlikely to catch monkeypox unless they have had close contact with someone already infected with the disease or they have visited countries where the disease is endemic.

There are no known cases of women infected in pregnancy within Australia to date but there are such cases in the U.K. and U.S.

Avoiding contact with infected people and seeking early medical care if exposure is suspected is the best strategy as we watch the monkeypox situation evolve. Women can also monitor monkeypox advice from Australian authorities and speak with their midwife or obstetrician if they have any concerns.

Explore further Spain reports 2nd death from monkeypox

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Can physical activity support the generation of heart muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) even in aged animals? Researchers at Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD) together with a team of international collaborators demonstrated positive effects on the formation of new heart muscle cells (cardiomyogenesis) in aged mice and investigated the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. The current research results have been published in the journal Circulation.

The heart of adult mammals has a very limited ability to generate new cardiomyocytes. With aging, this capacity continues to decrease, while at the same time the risk of cardiovascular disease increases. Dr. Carolin Lerchenmuller, head of the Cardiac Remodeling and Regeneration research group in the Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Pneumology at the UKHD, and her team have found evidence that physical activity stimulates the new formation of heart muscle cells in aging mice.

"In previous work, we have already demonstrated that regular exercise effectively stimulates cardiomyogenesis in younger mice. Now we have investigated the impact of physical activity on cardiomyogenesis as well as cellular and molecular mechanisms of in aged mice," says Dr. Lerchenmuller. 20-months old mice underwent an eight-week voluntary wheel running exercise program. The team then studied new heart muscle cell generation using a combination of imaging, histological and molecular techniques. They compared the results with those of a control group of age-matched "sedentary" mice, i.e., mice that were not provided with a wheel. In addition, they compared the results with those of younger animals.

Prevention of cardiovascular disease in focus

The researchers found that the calculated annual rate of newly generated heart muscle cells in the "exercising" group of older mice was 2.3 percent. In contrast, there were no new heart muscle cells in the "sedentary" control group. A previous study with young animals had already shown that mice had a calculated annual rate of 7.5 percent new heart muscle cells through exercise, compared to 1.63 percent in the corresponding "sedentary" control group.

To better understand the mechanisms behind cardiomyogenesis, the team studied the hearts using molecular analysis techniques. They found similarities, but also differences, between young and aged hearts. The RCAN1.4 gene in particular captured their attention. It was activated exclusively in older hearts by the exercise program.

"Further studies will now have to show whether the findings can eventually translate into new ways of treating and preventing heart disease in humans," explains Dr. Lerchenmuller.

Explore further Mice make over four times as many new heart muscle cells when they exercise, study finds

More information: Carolin Lerchenmuller et al, Restoration of Cardiomyogenesis in Aged Mouse Hearts by Voluntary Exercise, Circulation (2022). Journal information: Circulation Carolin Lerchenmuller et al, Restoration of Cardiomyogenesis in Aged Mouse Hearts by Voluntary Exercise,(2022). DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.121.057276
Researchers at the University of Sao Paulo showed, through experiments on animals and genetically modified cells, that this type of cancer advances more slowly when the light-sensitive molecule known as melanopsin is deactivated. The discovery could point to novel therapeutic strategies. Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Melanopsin (OPN4) is a light-sensing protein found in skin and retina cells. A new study conducted at the University of Sao Paulo (USP) in Brazil suggests that OPN4 can also participate in the development and progression of melanoma, the most aggressive type of skin cancer.

In experiments with animals and genetically modified cells at the Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation Laboratory belonging to the Institute of Biosciences (IB-USP), the researchers showed that the disease advances more slowly when this protein is not functional. The findings are reported in an article published in Communications Biology.

Although other groups had already shown that opsins are involved in cancer, this is the first such finding for melanoma, which accounts for 5% of malignant skin tumors and 80% of all deaths from cancer.

The basis for the study was an investigation by the same group using models of melanocytes (melanin-producing skin cells) to show that melanopsin was expressed in these cells and participated in processes such as pigmentation, biological clock adjustment, and even cell death due to ultraviolet A radiation.

The latest study used the DNA editing technique known as CRISPR to alter the sequence of the gene Opn4 and create a stable melanoma cell model with a non-functional version of the protein.

"When we created the knockout cells [without a functional OPN4 gene], we realized they had a very different phenotype: they grew less and displayed reduced proliferative capacity. We wondered why and decided to find out whether melanopsin played a role in melanoma progression or carcinogenesis," said Leonardo Vinicius Monteiro de Assis, first author of the article and currently a researcher at the University of Lubeck in Germany. Assis partnered on the study with Jose Thalles Lacerda, the second author of the article.

The theory was confirmed first in experiments performed in vitro and then in animals. Tumor cells containing the non-functional version of OPN4 grew less and more slowly than wild-type cells (without modification of OPN4). The discovery was later confirmed using proteomics and data from public databases.

"In sum, we showed that cell growth decreases in melanoma when you remove OPN4. This is basically due to two processes that aren't necessarily related but can be: increased activation of the immune system, although we don't yet know why; and a very significant reduction in signaling by GTPases, proteins resembling tiny motors that play a role in cell cycle progression and are greatly reduced in these tumors," Assis said.

The study also revealed that MITF (microphthalmia-associated transcription factor), a very important transcription factor in melanoma, is also much less expressed in cells with the non-functional version of melanopsin.

According to Assis, all these findings together suggest for the first time that melanopsin acts as an oncogene in melanoma, i.e., that it is associated with the development and growth of this type of cancer. Until now, melanopsin had never been linked to the development of tumors. More experiments on melanoma cell lines and other approaches are still needed to arrive at a definitive confirmation of this role.

Prospects

The Comparative Physiology of Pigmentation Laboratory, led by physiologist Ana Maria de Lauro Castrucci, is one of only a few research groups worldwide to have demonstrated (in 2018) that melanopsin also detects temperature, acting independently as a thermosensor and a photosensor. With the new information, it has now added one more important aspect by showing that the molecule can become a promising therapeutic tool in the future.

"Melanopsin could be explored for the treatment of melanoma, and this opens up a new avenue for research on its role in other diseases, such as those of the liver, where opsins are also present," Assis said.

Castrucci's lab is currently investigating the systemic role of melanopsin in organs it is not classically known to influence, such as fatty tissue, the liver, and the heart, among others.

Explore further Scientists discover gene mutation that signals aggressive melanoma

More information: Leonardo Vinicius Monteiro de Assis et al, Melanopsin (Opn4) is an oncogene in cutaneous melanoma, Communications Biology (2022). Journal information: Communications Biology Leonardo Vinicius Monteiro de Assis et al, Melanopsin (Opn4) is an oncogene in cutaneous melanoma,(2022). DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03425-6
Credit: Emily Faith Morgan, University Commuications

For several years, Julia Taylor had one of the nation's most underappreciated jobs: middle school counselor.

"I was in the trenches for a decade before higher ed," said Taylor, now an associate professor of counselor education in the University of Virginia's School of Education and Human Development. "I would have loved something like this."

"This" is a pilot project that pairs people like Taylor, who are steeped in the research on student mental health, with school counselors, psychologists, nurses and social workers who face a growing number of students in crisis.

In fact, Taylor is a co-author of a recent study published in Child & Youth Care Forum, which showed this new approach works. She and colleague Michael Lyons have found that something relatively simpleregular Zoom calls with a handful of school divisionsleaves the school mental health professionals feeling better equipped to help students with mental health challenges.

Simply put: "We're trying to improve the quality of mental health services provided to youth in schools," Taylor said.

Getting to that point meant bridging what Taylor and Lyons call the "research-to-practice gap." That's the divide that separates people who immerse themselves in the study of child and adolescent mental health from front-line school workers who "have a problem with a kid right now," said Lyons, an associate professor of clinical and school psychology at UVA. "And they need solutions to that problem."

The problem is growing.

"Student mental health has plummeted and the pandemic has disrupted almost every aspect of their lives," Taylor said. "It is not plausible to simply bounce back from this."

According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, emergency-room visits related to mental health increased 31% among adolescents from 2019 to 2020. A recent UVA Health study showed suspected suicide attempts by poisoning among children ages 6 to 19 increased nearly 27% between 2015 and 2020.

"Researchers at UVA and all over the country have developed new interventions, new assessment tools to be more efficient and effective at identifying kids who need mental health supports, and then to effectively intervene," Lyons said. "The problem is that often doesn't get into the hands of frontline providers."

One potential solution, they believe, is an idea centered on a tele-mentoring model called Project ECHO, or Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes. It's a system medical doctors created to consult on complex cases in rural areas. This study tested the idea in a new context: schools.

As part of a statewide initiative called the Virginia Partnership for School Mental Health, mental health staff from four Virginia school divisions participated in a professional development program. To see what was more effective, some participants had access to online training modules while others had both the online training and the monthly Zoom sessions.

During each virtual session, one participant presents a specific case, then the full team discusses and shares recommendations. Topics cover a range of mental health concerns, including trauma in schools and the mental health needs of high-achieving students. Conversations would reference resources in the modules, helping participants apply it to a real-life scenario.

The group that participated in ECHO sessions showed higher engagement with the training modules, and higher satisfaction with the program, compared to the participants who only interacted with the modules.

A key finding, Taylor said, is that the regularity of the meetings provided a more engaging and cost-effective way for school mental health professionals to learn, compared to more traditional avenues like annual training or seminars.

"Consistency is the key," Taylor said. And, Lyons added, this approach is tailor-made for rural school districts where counselors and nurses may not have access to robust training and support.

While these findings are preliminary, the research team has several follow-up studies in the works. Researchers said upcoming studies currently under review suggest that ECHO could also affect participants' knowledge and confidence.

"What we want folks to do is sustain the learning and distribute it over time," Lyons said. "We're starting to see this in later studies, but the hope is that it actually changes the way that they understand their role, and school mental health evidence-based practices, and then change the team's behavior to promote better student mental health outcomeswhich is the ultimate goal."

The study, and the ongoing ECHO sessions, are one part of a much larger initiative to improve school mental health in the commonwealth. The Virginia Partnership for School Mental Health began in 2019, bringing together school divisions and universities to increase the number of school mental health professionals who provide evidence-based services in Virginia.

Another focus of the partnership is training graduate students in mental health leadership.

At UVA, with grant funding from the partnership, six school counseling students graduated in May having engaged in more than 700 hours of fieldwork in a high-need school division, supervised by practitioners trained by the partnership. They also participated in a semester of ECHO sessions and took extra course credits focused on school mental health.

"They worked tremendously hard in their two years at UVA and I could not be prouder of their flexibility, curiosity and determination," Taylor said. "Their counseling skills are polished, their case conceptualization skills are seasoned, and they exemplify the term 'leader.' I have no doubt they will make an incredible impact on the youth they serve in Virginia's public schools."

In the past two years, the partnership has continued to expandrecently adding Old Dominion University, William & Mary, Radford University, James Madison University and Virginia Tech, as well as the Hampton and Roanoke city schools. The team also hopes to explore how to widen the community involved in the partnership.

"School mental health really is a whole-school and community problem to tackle," Lyons said. "So there's interest in thinking about how to engage other allied professionals, families and community partners to create an even more robust, integrated network to support student well-being."

Lyons said participants in the ECHO sessions shared that the experience worked because it helped them feel like part of a team. For Lyons himself, participating in the ECHO sessions brought the partnership's visionof a strong local community of school mental health professionals working together to support studentsto life.

"In real time, you see how a network of people working together can come up with solutions that no one person would have come up with alone," he said. "And that's an amazing thing to be a part of."

Explore further School mental health resources critical to ensuring safe school environments

More information: Michael D. Lyons et al, Supporting School Mental Health Providers: Evidence from a Short-Term Telementoring Model, Child & Youth Care Forum (2022). Michael D. Lyons et al, Supporting School Mental Health Providers: Evidence from a Short-Term Telementoring Model,(2022). DOI: 10.1007/s10566-022-09673-1#citeas
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Simulated experience of caring for a dying patient and their family can improve the confidence and preparedness of medical students to provide such care, according to a new study by Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS) published in BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care.

Immediately after the simulations were completed, student confidence almost doubled (98% increase) in relation to communicating with dying patients and their family. Confidence in patient management increased by two-thirds (66.2%), and increased by almost one half (48.4%) for multidisciplinary working. These increases in confidence were sustained when measured again six months later.

Qualitative measurements of preparedness demonstrated that students welcomed greater exposure to hands-on teaching on the care of dying patients, and felt better prepared to provide this care following the simulated experience.

Lead author Dr. Geoff Wells, Honorary Clinical Lecturer at BSMS and ST6 Registrar in Palliative Medicine at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Trust, says that "Foundation Year 1 trainees, straight out of medical school, can feel anxious, poorly prepared and unconfident in providing care for dying patients."

"Our study showed that after a series of simulation sessions medical students reported a marked increase in confidence, which was maintained six months later."

Year 4 students at BSMS took part in eight half-day simulation sessions, which used a hi-fidelity mannikin (with pulse, breathing sounds and chest movements) to represent an unconscious, dying patient and an actor to play a family member. A range of scenarios were played out, including some in which the patient died.

Dr. Wells added that they "use simulation to teach many areas of medicine, particularly in managing acute emergencies, and this is known to be an effective teaching tool. As with an emergency situation, with a dying patient you also have a time limit to provide appropriate and competent clinical care, with a single opportunity to get it rightso there are parallels between the two situations."

"Ultimately, we believe developing simulation in palliative care teaching could reduce distress among junior doctors, with the patient dying comfortably, and with any previously unmet palliative care needs having been addressed."

Following the success of this study, these simulations are now being incorporated into the BSMS undergraduate curriculum so that all students will have the opportunity to learn from simulated care of the dying scenarios. This will also provide many opportunities for further study with much larger participant numbers.

More information: Geoffrey Wells et al, Care of the dyingmedical student confidence and preparedness: mixed-methods simulation study, BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care (2022). Journal information: BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Geoffrey Wells et al, Care of the dyingmedical student confidence and preparedness: mixed-methods simulation study,(2022). DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2022-003698
New cancer therapy model in which endogenous PD-1 in mice can be degraded for only a necessary period of time. Credit: KyotoU

Sometimes too much of a good thing is not good at all. Inhibiting the function of the PD-1 protein, which blocks immune function, has shown high therapeutic efficacy in cancer immunotherapy. However, when this function is inhibited for an extended period of time, autoimmune diseases may develop.

Now, researchers at Kyoto University have developed a cancer therapy model in which existing medication can be used to transiently degrade and reduce the protein responsible for programmed cell death.

"We constructed a cancer therapy model in which endogenous PD-1 on immune cells in mice can be degraded for only a necessary period of time," says lead author Chie Naruse.

Naruse's team utilizes the small-molecule-assisted shutoffor SMAShdegron system in both cultured cells and mice in vivo after introducing the medically-approved protease inhibitors asunaprevir and grazoprevir. SMASh tags are used as markers for proteolysis in the degron system, where they are fused to the PD-1 protein. This approach is effective in demonstrating the reduction of PD-1 in specific T cells after drug administration.

"Cancer cell growth was also suppressed in wild-type mice in which immune cells were replaced with those from knock-in mice," the author adds.

The method, however, may require some tweaking. Some older knock-in mice were observed to develop mild autoimmune diseases without the introduction of either inhibitor. Naruse concludes, "We are now working on an improved system in which PD-1 degradation does not occur without drug administration, possibly leading the way to a simpler treatment for cancer."

The research was published in NAR Cancer.

More information: Chie Naruse et al, A degron system targeting endogenous PD-1 inhibits the growth of tumor cells in mice, NAR Cancer (2022). Chie Naruse et al, A degron system targeting endogenous PD-1 inhibits the growth of tumor cells in mice,(2022). DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcac019
Attempts to distort one-China principle doomed to fail: spokesperson

Xinhua) 08:09, August 09, 2022

BEIJING, Aug. 8 (Xinhua) -- China on Monday expressed firm opposition to certain countries' attempt to distort, obscure and hollow out the one-China principle, calling such practices illegal as well as null and void.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks in response to a recent joint statement issued by foreign ministers of the United States, Australia and Japan, which reportedly said that there have been no changes to the three countries' respective one-China policies, "where applicable," or their basic positions on Taiwan.

Such a way to state the one-China principle reveals the attempt to distort, obscure and hollow out the one-China principle, which is illegal and null and void, according to the spokesperson.

Wang said the one-China principle is a consensus in the international community and a universally recognized basic norm governing international relations, and constitutes a part of the post-World War II international order. This was confirmed in the UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 and served as the political foundation for China and other countries to establish and develop diplomatic relations.

The connotations of the one-China principle are clear and leave no doubt: There is only one China, Taiwan is a part of China, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China.

"The application of the one-China principle is universal and unconditional, and brooks no doubt," Wang said. All countries that have established diplomatic relations with China and all UN member states should comply with the one-China principle unconditionally and follow Resolution 2758, he added.

"A man without integrity cannot establish himself, and a country will only fall into decline if it loses credibility," Wang said, urging certain countries to honor their commitments, and realize the hazardous consequences of reneging on their own words and emboldening forces seeking "Taiwan independence."

Attempts to challenge the one-China principle, the international rule of law and international order are bound to be opposed by the international community and are doomed to fail, the spokesperson said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A divergence in practice and differences between emissions disclosure rules means that while nations work on reaching net zero, total emissions will remain stable or might even increase.

While this happens, it will be difficult to tell whether an individual financial institution is aligned or misaligned to Net Zero until after its too late to correct course, writes Dr Eman Tabet, Research Associate, Responsible Finance and Investment (RFI) Foundation.

Different standards include different definitions of financial institution Scope 3 emissions, which make it hard to compare between institutions.

Lack of clear standards

A lack of clear standards makes it hard to tell whether financial institutions plans will reduce total emissions consistent with Net Zero pathways, or whether they will reduce emission intensity (per unit of production) in their portfolios in a way that appears net zero-aligned but produces results for the economy that are misaligned with long-term Net Zero pathways.

Last month, Finance Watch published a report questioning whether reaching Net Zero goals was possible by just focusing on financed emissions. Their critique centered around the use of Net Zero to justify new fossil fuel investment, with the seeming contradiction between those goals and scenarios such as the International Energy Agencys, which suggests that the Net Zero ambition is incompatible with investments in new fossil fuel production.

There should be no contradiction post-COP 26 with initiatives such as the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ), which recently announced guidance for its 450 financial institution members who have committed to reducing emissions towards net zero.

Unique challenges of banks

As reporting standards continue to develop and become more rigorous, they will become better at fulfilling their role in creating consistency. Information providers and toolboxes used to analyse whether financial institutions are making the right transition towards their emissions targets will also continue to improve. In the meantime, on this path towards Net Zero, banks and financial institutions face several unique challenges of navigating standards and frameworks that are at times incongruent.

First, as banks try to transition towards Net Zero, there is pressure on them to navigate through all the data, impact and parameters so as to figure out the most effective ways to create change with different stakeholders advocating for different positions. The most direct method to reduce direct financial risks to investors, by decarbonising their loan books by selling off all the high emission assets, wont do anything to the emissions trajectory in the global economy. If sold to an institution that doesnt care about emissions, it is likely to make it worse (raising rather than lowering the transition risk for the financial sector as a whole).

Without data connecting a financial institutions financed emissions contributions to the economy as a whole, financial institutions will be challenged in their stewardship role. Financial stakeholders will often focus on institution-specific, short-term, return-oriented goals that may be incongruous with imposing conditions on their corporate clients.

Regulators may be focused on an institutions contribution to overall financial stability and may prioritise risk reduction and reporting compliance objectives. Other stakeholders may see both other objectives as insufficient for long-term objectives for achieving Net Zero.

Improving data quality

Third, there is a need for banks to work on improving their data quality, which is an integral, and perhaps inevitable, part of moving towards complying with the developed guidelines. However, they have to find the most relevant data from internal and external sources and deal with differences between those data and the self-reported data from customers that could be more up-to-date and precise than other sources, or it could be cherry-picked to show a better situation than actually exists.

Those challenges have largely been left to banks to overcome. And with current frameworks remaining patchy, there is an increasing need for providing methodologies that produce comparable estimates. The needs are especially great for emerging economies, where data is much scarcer, to inform decision-making pertaining to climate-related financial risks.

With so many definitions around how to accurately measure climate risk, which can vary from institution to institution as well as among their customers, it becomes increasingly muddled to look at the available data for comparing one institution to another. Top-down analyses, such as that developed by our work at RFI, help provide consistent and comparable emissions data down to individual bank level. This type of data may not be the be-all and end-all of climate data, but taken for what it is (an order of magnitude estimate) it can offer a better picture of the general trajectory for the financial sector as a whole, and for each institutions contribution towards that trajectory and their alignment with national and international targets.

Top-down models

Top-down estimates can provide a wayfinding tool for banks to use for strategy and planning even as they work towards more granular sectoral data for their customers. Financial institutions can use the top-down models to analyse and evaluate specific subsector targets and responses and identify where they will benefit most from getting new and better data. All of this in turn provides an important input for pushing forward the engagement strategy highlighted by Finance Watch as a critical step forward.

But the question remains: how do we look at institution-specific climate data and connect it to economy-wide trajectories? This is where it becomes a necessity to look at the details of interlinkages between country-level trends and bank-level trajectories. For example, forecasted and required policies in the Inevitable Policy Response can turn into constraints used to limit risk by rapidly reducing exposure to sectors that are likely to have significant transition risk over the forecast period. At the bank-level, this can satisfy investor and regulator concerns about risk exposures, while at an economy-wide level it can draw financing away from transition-related investments that would support the intended outcome of the policies.

Several stages

Transitioning towards Net Zero is a journey, and one that is bound to go through several stages. The outlines of those stages can be observed from the focus points of different frameworks. The SBTi current framework, for example, is geared towards short-term emission reduction (aligning with 2030 targets) and portfolio decarbonisation for financial institutions.

Meanwhile, long-term Net Zero takes the opposite approach, that requiring more than mere tweaking of portfolios for financial institutions to be considered as aligned. It requires consistent financing of what is important for the economys Net Zero transition, which requires financing for decarbonisation (including transition) as well as climate solutions.

There is a lot banks can do in the short run, even without individual customer-level data. Using estimated data, each individual bank can take the top-down estimates and extrapolate the sub-sectoral emissions of the high-emitting sectors and compare them to the country-wide averages. Banks can supplement this data with information about individual clients alignment with Net Zero if they have set verified Net Zero targets through initiatives such as SBTi.

Transition finance

For example, if they know that there is a large concentration of their borrowers aligned to the SBTi guidelines, they can focus efforts for transition finance with those clients and take more rudimentary steps such as engaging in support of better data collection from other customers.

Financial institutions can use top-down analysis to streamline their efforts. Instead of letting data gaps or weaknesses become an impediment to getting started, top-down analyses can be useful for conducting a gap analysis to understand interlinkages between customer exposures in different sectors. Subsequently, it can help to develop an understanding of what the economy as a whole needs to align to a Net Zero trajectory even where granular data is unavailable.-- TradeArabia News Service
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A new analysis shows that a combination of two anti-platelets drugs can benefit patients after the most common type of cardiac surgerywhile also increasing the risk of potentially dangerous bleeding. This double-edged finding from Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian investigators suggests physicians should carefully weigh the use of these medications after this procedure.

In an analysis reported Aug. 9 in JAMA, a team led by Dr. Mario Gaudino, a coronary artery bypass surgeon, examined data from 1,668 grafts in which surgeons use a piece of vein taken from the leg to circumvent blocked coronary arteries. Sometimes, however, blood clots form within the grafted vein, obstructing blood flow. Typically, patients are given aspirin; however, some evidence suggests that aspirin along with a prescription strength anti-platelet agent, such as one called ticagrelor, can more effectively prevent this clotting.

"We found that, yes, this dual therapy significantly reduces the risk that the grafts will fail. However, for the first time, we have shown that this approach also carries a significant risk of clinically important bleeding," said Dr. Gaudino, the Stephen and Suzanne Weiss Professor in Cardiothoracic Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine and a cardiothoracic surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. "So, the benefit comes at a price."

Taken together, these results indicate physicians should base their decisions on patients' individual circumstances and avoid using this approach for those with conditions that put them at risk of bleeding, he said.

Every year, approximately 300,000 patients undergo coronary artery bypass grafts to treat narrowed or blocked arteries that deprive the heart muscle of oxygen-rich blood. In more than 90 percent of these procedures, surgeons take a graft from one of the patient's saphenous veins, which carry blood up the inner side of the legs. However, within a year, as many as a quarter of these grafts become obstructed.

Some studies have examined the benefit of giving patients both aspirin and ticagrelor, an approach known as dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). However, these studies were small and came to conflicting conclusions. The team, including first author Dr. Sigrid Sandner, a master's student in clinical epidemiology at the Weill Cornell Graduate School of Medical Sciences, reached out to researchers on four such trials to obtain access to their raw data. The team then compiled that data, in effect creating a much larger study capable of generating more robust conclusions.

They found a failure rate of approximately 11 percent in patients who received a combination of aspirin and ticagrelor, while blockages occurred in 20 percent of grafts when patients received only aspirin. However, as compared with aspirin alone, DAPT brought on more bleeding events that, while generally not life threatening, required medical attention.

In these previous trials, patients received DAPT for a full year. However, most graft failure occurs in the first few months after surgery. Next, Dr. Gaudino, who is also director of the Joint Clinical Trials Office at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, hopes to test aspirin and ticagrelor over one to three months to see if a shortened course offers the same benefit with less risk of bleeding.

Explore further Ticagrelor + aspirin beneficial after elective CABG

More information: Sigrid Sandner et al, Association of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy With Ticagrelor With Vein Graft Failure After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery, JAMA (2022). Journal information: Journal of the American Medical Association Sigrid Sandner et al, Association of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy With Ticagrelor With Vein Graft Failure After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery,(2022). DOI: 10.1001/jama.2022.11966
WASHINGTON (AP)  In a recent closed-door meeting with leaders of the agencys counterterrorism center, the CIAs No. 2 official made clear that fighting al-Qaida and other extremist groups would remain a priority  but that the agencys money and resources would be increasingly shifted to focusing on China.

One year after ending the war in Afghanistan, President Joe Biden and top national security officials speak less about counterterrorism and more about the political, economic and military threats posed by China as well as Russia. Theres been a quiet pivot within intelligence agencies, which are moving hundreds of officers to China-focused positions, including some who were previously working on terrorism.

Intelligence officials stress that the counterterrorism fight is hardly being ignored. Just a week ago, it was revealed that a CIA drone attack killed al-Qaida leader Ayman al-Zawahri in Kabul. But days later, China staged large-scale military exercises and threatened to cut off contacts with the U.S. over House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taiwan. It underscored the message CIA deputy director David Cohen had delivered at that meeting weeks ago: The agencys top priority is trying to understand and counter Beijing.

Intelligence officials have said they need more insights on China, including after being unable to definitively pinpoint the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic. Beijing has been accused of withholding information about the origins of the virus.

And the war in Ukraine has underscored Russia's importance as a target. The U.S. used declassified information to expose Russian President Vladimir Putin's war plans before the invasion and rally diplomatic support for Kyiv.

Supporters of the Biden administration approach note that the fact the U.S. was able to track and kill al-Zawahri is evidence of its capabilities to target threats in Afghanistan from abroad. Critics say the fact that al-Zawahri was living in Kabul, under the apparent protection of the Taliban, suggests there's a resurgence of extremist groups that America is ill-equipped to counter.

The shift in priorities is supported by many former intelligence officers and lawmakers from both parties who say its overdue. That includes people who served in Afghanistan and other missions against al-Qaida and other terrorist groups.

Rep. Jason Crow, a former Army Ranger who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, said he believed the U.S. had been overly focused on counterterrorism over the last several years.

A far greater existential threat is Russia and China, said Crow, a Colorado Democrat who serves on the House Intelligence and Armed Services committees. Terrorist groups, he said, will not destroy the American way of life ... the way China can.

CIA spokesperson Tammy Thorp noted that terrorism remains a very real challenge.

Even as crises such as Russias invasion of Ukraine and strategic challenges such as that posed by the Peoples Republic of China demand our attention, CIA will continue to aggressively track terrorist threats globally and work with partners to counter them, Thorp said.

Congress has pushed the CIA and other intelligence agencies to make China a top priority, according to several people familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive intelligence matters. Pushing resources toward China has required cuts elsewhere, including in counterterrorism. Specific figures were unavailable because intelligence budgets are classified.

In particular, lawmakers want more information about China's development in advanced technologies. Under President Xi Jinping, China has committed trillions of dollars in investment on quantum science, artificial intelligence and other technologies that are likely to disrupt how future wars are fought and economies are structured.

As part of the shift, congressional committees are trying to better track how intelligence agencies spend their funding on China, seeking more detail about how specific programs contribute to that mission, one person familiar with the matter said.

We are late, but it's good that we're finally changing our focus into that region, said Rep. Chris Stewart, a Utah Republican who serves on the House Intelligence Committee. That means in people, in resources, in military assets, and in diplomacy.

The CIA last year announced it would create two new mission centers  one on China, one on emerging technologies  to centralize and improve intelligence collection on those issues. The CIA is also trying to recruit more Chinese speakers and reduce wait times on security clearances to hire new people faster.

Inside the agency, many officers are learning Chinese and moving into new roles focused on China, though not all of those jobs require language training, people familiar with the matter said.

Officials note that intelligence officers are trained to adapt to new challenges and that many were moved more quickly into counterterrorism roles after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Advances from counterterrorism work  including better use of data and different sources of intelligence to build networks and identify targets  are also useful in countering Russia and China, former officers said.

Its the analytics and targeting machine that has become extraordinary, said Douglas Wise, a former CIA senior officer who was deputy chief of operations at the counterterrorism center.

The CIA's Counterterrorism Center, renamed the Counterterrorism Mission Center in a 2015 reorganization, remains a point of pride for many people who credit its work for keeping Americans safe from terrorism after Sept. 11. CIA officers landed in Afghanistan on Sept. 26, 2001, and were part of operations to displace the Taliban and find and kill leaders of al-Qaida including Osama bin Laden.

And 13 years after a double agent tricked officers pursuing al-Zawahri and blew himself up, killing seven agency employees, the CIA killed him in a strike with no reported civilian casualties.

The CIA was also involved in some of the darkest moments of the fight against terrorism. It operated secret black site jails to hold terrorism suspects, some wrongly, and was found by a Senate investigation to have used interrogation methods that amounted to torture. Elite Afghan special operations units trained by the CIA were also accused of killing civilians and violating international law.

There's long been a debate over whether counterterrorism pulled intelligence agencies too far away from traditional spying and whether some of the CIA's work in targeting terrorists should instead be done by special forces under the military.

Marc Polymeropoulos is a retired CIA operations officer and former base chief in Afghanistan. He said he supports a greater focus on China and Russia but added, Theres no reason to diminish what we had to do."

This notion that somehow all the CT work we did, somehow that was wrong, that we took our eye of the ball  just remember on Sept. 12 what everyone was feeling, he said.

Re-orienting the agencies toward more of a focus on China and Russia will ultimately take years and require both patience and recognition that the agencys culture will take time to change, Wise said.

For decades, we have been doing counterterrorism, Wise said. Weve got to have a rational plan to make this adaptation, which doesnt take so long that our enemies can exploit a glacial process.
TUESDAY, Aug. 9, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Could cannabis end up being a gateway drug for cigarettes?

Possibly, said researchers from Columbia University, who found that adults who use pot daily do not perceive smoking a pack a day as being as harmful as those who do not use pot do.

"In the context of recent findings that perception of risk plays a key role in predicting substance use, and that perception of risk associated with cannabis use has declined steadily along with legalization, these findings were somewhat of a surprise," said lead researcher Renee Goodwin. She's a professor in the department of epidemiology at Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health.

In the study, Goodwin and colleagues used data from over 21,000 adults in the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

About 62% of adults who use pot daily perceived pack-a-day cigarette use to be of "great" risk to health, while 73% of those who did not use cannabis in the past year had that same perception.

"Tobacco control has done a tremendous job in public education on the physical health risks associated with tobacco use, and cigarette smoking in particular, over the past several decades," Goodwin said in a university news release.

Still, her past research has found that cigarette use is much more common among those who use cannabis.

"We wondered why that might be. Our findings suggest that diminished risk perception of pack-a-day cigarette use might be one contributing factor," Goodwin said.

She also addressed recent Canadian research on legalized cannabis and packaging. In Canada, marijuana has been legal on the national level since 2018.

"Data from Canada suggests that plain packaging is one measure that can maximize the safe and effective rollout of cannabis legalization that ensures and protects the health, safety and well-being of all members of our community," Goodwin said.

"Enacting legislation on the local and state level that reduces the appeal of cannabis products to youth vis-a-vis prohibiting product packaging that mimics foods and candies that are traditionally marketed to children [e.g., Pop-Tarts, Oreos] may reduce potential unintended harms to the most vulnerable members of our community via accidental ingestion/poisonings, which have exploded in number in recent years in the U.S., with child and adolescent intentional use of these products," Goodwin suggested.

The findings were published Aug. 3 in the journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research.

More information

The U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse has more on cigarette smoking and other tobacco use.

SOURCE: Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, news release, Aug. 3, 2022

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Rainy, relatively cooler weather the past weekend slowed growth of wildfires across the region.

But a return to hot, dry, windy conditions with afternoon thunderstorms could challenge firefighters this week.

A new fire was discovered Sunday at the northern end of the Rattlesnake Mountains in the South Fork Jocko Tribal Primitive Area. The Crazy Fish fire is burning on a northeast-facing timbered slope north of Lake Sa-ol-Sooth about 1.1 miles north of the Flathead Reservation's border with the Lolo National Forest and Rattlesnake Wilderness Area. On Monday, the fire was about 2 acres and 0% contained, according to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe Division of Fire. Ten smokejumpers and a helicopter are working the fire, which was caused by lightning.

Another new fire start, the Lucifer Lake fire, was discovered Monday, located along the west side of Lucifer Lake in the Mission Mountains, about 8.2 miles northeast of St. Ignatius. The lightning-caused fire was 0.3 acres on Monday afternoon. Five personnel and a helicopter were working the fire, according to the Division of Fire.

Elmo 2 fire

The Elmo 2 fire grew by 129 acres Saturday and just 18 acres Sunday, reaching a total of 21,345 acres burned, according to Northern Rockies Team 7. Containment increased to 55%. Firefighters worked throughout the weekend to improve containment lines to the fire's east  between the fire and subdivisions of homes west of Dayton and to the south of Lake Mary Ronan Road  and along the southern shore of Lake Mary Ronan itself, which the fire reached late last week.

"Reduced winds and lower temperatures along with aviation support" contributed to relatively milder fire activity over the weekend than during the past week, the team stated, cautioning that warmer temps and low humidity early this week could increase fire activity on the fire's north side and interior.

Full containment around the fire was estimated to occur around noon on Aug. 20. On Monday, 616 personnel were working the fire.

An evacuation order in place for the entire Lake Mary Ronan Road corridor from U.S. Highway 93 to the lake itself, and including all roads along Lake Mary Ronan Road and around the lake, has been pared down. Camp Tuffit/West Shore Road remains under an evacuation order. The Lake County Sheriff's Office reverted the Lake Mary Ronan Road corridor west of Dayton Creek Road to pre-evacuation stage. An evacuation order for residents east of Dayton Creek Road was previously lifted. Pre-evacuation areas are open only to residents.

The fire started July 29 along State Highway 28 and quickly spread north and east. The fire raced toward Dayton on Aug. 1, spurring evacuations and burning eight structures, of which at least four were homes. The fire ran again on Aug. 3, that time heading north toward Lake Mary Ronan, which it reached the following day. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

A public information meeting was scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday at the Elmo Pow Wow Grounds.

Redhorn fire

In the Mission Mountains north of Missoula, the lightning-caused Redhorn fire grew to 398 acres over the weekend and remained 0% contained. On Monday, 120 personnel were assigned to the blaze, aided by aircraft dropping water and fire retardant. Firefighters are working to construct a fuel break from McDonald Lake west along road M-3000, as well as above a canal in the area, to stop the fire from spreading downslope to the west toward structures.

The fire, discovered Aug. 1, is about 7 miles northeast of St. Ignatius and just south of McDonald Lake on the west side of McDonald Peak, in the Tribal Mission Mountain Wilderness. The fire is in a grizzly bear management zone that is closed to recreation annually from July 15 to Oct. 1.

Hog Trough fire

The lightning-caused Hog Trough fire about 18 miles southeast of Hamilton was 798 acres by Monday morning  growth of just 49 acres since Aug. 3  and 41% contained. Warm temperatures, gusty winds and low humidity were expected to drive an increase in fire behavior this week.

A total of 328 personnel were assigned to the fire on Monday, including six hand crews and five engines, and aided by three helicopters. Northern Rockies Team 5, a Type-II incident management team, took over command of the fire on Aug. 3 from a local Type-III team.

The fire, which ignited July 17, is burning in the Sapphire Wilderness Study Area across the Bitterroot and Beaverhead-Deerlodge national forests and about 5.4 miles east of the Black Bear Campground. The fire is not threatening any structures and is in extremely rugged and remote terrain within and near a variety of overlapping burn scars dating back at least 22 years. The team plans to make water drops on the fire via helicopter and ground crews are thinning fuels and constructing containment lines around the fire. Crews are currently working to construct containment lines and fuel breaks along the Skalkaho Rye Road (Forest Service Road 75), Forest Service Road 711 and trail 77. Aircraft are monitoring fire growth to the north, toward Skalkaho Highway.

Skalkaho Highway has remained open since the fire started, but many roads and trails in the vicinity of the fire to the south of the highway are closed, including Skalkaho Rye Road and Forest Service roads 711, 5070 and 5071.

Weasel fire

The lightning-caused Weasel fire near the U.S.-Canada border has grown to at least 2,384 acres and spilled over the border into Canada. About 1,243 acres are in the U.S., on the Kootenai National Forest.

The fire, discovered July 30, is suspected to have been ignited by lightning on July 29. The fire blew up on Aug. 4, driven by strong winds, and ran 5 miles while expanding from 170 acres to 2,174 acres and crossing into Canada. A local Type-III team in the U.S. is coordinating firefighting efforts with a Canadian counterpart. The fire ignited near Camp Creek and Weasel Creek in the Whitefish Mountains about 1.65 miles south of the border.

Weasel Cabin was wrapped in protective material Aug. 2. Wam Lookout Tower was wrapped Aug. 5.

On Monday, 76 personnel were working the fire and "suppression efforts are occurring where the fire can be engaged safely and effectively," according to an InciWeb page for the fire. Fire behavior was moderate with "minimal fire growth" expected in all directions.

Moose fire

The Moose fire near North Fork, Idaho, grew to 68,771 by Monday morning and was 16% contained. Containment has dropped from 23% last week because of fire growth. The blaze ignited mid-afternoon on July 17 and rapidly grew amid high winds and red-flag conditions over the following weeks. The fire is expanding on three fronts  to the west, south and east  driven by chaotic wind patterns through river canyons, up and down slopes, and over ridge tops. The fire is human-caused, and residents in the North Fork area have maintained that the fire was caused by an unattended campfire.

Mild winds and temperatures, and some rain, tempered fire behavior over the weekend, and moderate fire behavior was reported Monday. More active fire behavior was expected this week as temperatures rise, humidity drops and gusty winds increase in the area, immediately northwest of Salmon, Idaho. Winds from the northwest are expected to drive the fire farther southeast, toward Salmon and its municipal watershed. Crews are working to brace containment lines and fuel breaks along Jackass Ridge, on the fire's southeast side nearest Salmon and immediately west of U.S. Highway 93.

Great Basin Team 1  a Type-I incident management team, the largest and most robust configuration of the interagency teams assigned to oversee wildfire response  took command of the incident at 6 a.m. Aug. 3. Great Basin Team 2, another Type-I team, had overseen firefighting efforts since 6 a.m. July 20.

On Monday, 1,318 personnel were assigned to the fire, including 35 hand crews and 66 engine crews, and aided by 10 helicopters.

A virtual community information meeting addressing the fire's threat to Salmon's municipal watershed is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, accessible on the Salmon-Challis National Forest Facebook page.
Wildfires in or near western Montana continued to gradually expand Monday, although some have seen little change in recent days.

Elmo 2 fire

The Elmo 2 fire on the west side of Flathead Lake experienced almost no growth Monday as containment increased to 61%. In an update Tuesday, the Northern Rockies Team, the incident management team overseeing the blaze, stated that the fire grew by just 4 acres from Monday morning. Firefighters expanded containment lines to the fire's east  between the fire and subdivisions of homes west of Dayton and to the south of Lake Mary Ronan Road  and along the southern shore of Lake Mary Ronan itself, which the fire reached late last week. Tuesday was expected to be the most active fire behavior day this week.

Full containment of the fire, which started July 29 and burned eight structures including at least four homes, was expected for around noon Aug. 20. On Tuesday, 608 personnel were assigned to the fire, including 13 hand crews and 19 engine crews.

Indian Ridge fire

The Indian Ridge fire expanded to about 2,400 acres on Tuesday as strong northwest winds pushed it across Indian Creek and up the slope of Beaver Jack Mountain. The fire is 30 miles southwest of Darby in the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness, about 2.55 miles east of the Indian Creek Campground and Paradise Road in Idaho and upstream from the campground on a south-facing mountainside to the north of Indian Creek. The fire is about 7 miles west of the Idaho-Montana state line at the southern end of the Bitterroot Mountains.

Fire activity is expected to increase further. Smoke will be visible, and could degrade air quality, in the southern Bitterroot Valley, particular around Darby and Sula.

The fire was started by lightning on July 7, according to the Bitterroot National Forest. The forest first announced the fire on Facebook on Aug. 5, stating at the time that it was about 20 acres after active burning Aug. 4. On Monday, the forest stated that the fire is not threatening any structures or infrastructure, and no closures are in place.

"Due to the combination of no immediate identified values at risk near this fire and very steep, rugged terrain making access for firefighters difficult," the forest stated, "fire managers are utilizing a combination of a point protection strategy and indirect fire line tactics to prevent any critical wilderness infrastructure from being negatively impacted by the fire."

Hog Trough fire

The lightning-caused Hog Trough fire about 18 miles southeast of Hamilton was 824 acres by early Tuesday, an increase of 26 acres from a day prior. Containment increased from 41% to 44%. Fire activity could increase this week as afternoon thunderstorms bring lightning and gusty winds to the area.

The fire, which ignited July 17, is not threatening any structures and is in extremely rugged and remote terrain within and near a variety of overlapping burn scars dating back at least 22 years. Northern Rockies Team 5 plans to make water drops on the fire via helicopter and ground crews are thinning fuels and constructing containment lines around the fire. Crews are currently working to construct containment lines and fuel breaks along the Skalkaho Rye Road (Forest Service Road 75), Forest Service Road 711 and trail 77. Those roads and trails are closed, but Skalkaho Highway and Pass remain open. Aircraft are monitoring fire growth to the north, toward Skalkaho Highway.

On Tuesday, 420 personnel were assigned to the fire, including six hand crews and four engine crews.

Moose fire

The Moose fire near North Fork, Idaho, grew to 72,710 acres by Tuesday morning and was 21% contained, up from 68,771 acres and 16% contained the day before. According to Great Basin Team 1, both acreage and containment increased because "many small fingers and islands within the fire perimeter were incorporated into the acreage calculation, which reduced the length of the fire perimeter by 54 miles. So, while the length of containment line did not increase yesterday, the percent containment increased due to the reduction in overall perimeter length."

For the first time since the fire ignited on July 17, the Salmon River Road is fully open to traffic without a pilot car system. The main Salmon River is reopened to rafters in the area. Previously, the road was open only to local residents, outfitters and recreational river users with permits for the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. The Bureau of Land Management's Morgan Bar Campground is closed for aerial firefighting operations. An evacuation order for residents along U.S. Highway 93 between Tower Creek and North Fork has been lifted.

On Tuesday, 1,340 personnel were assigned to the fire, including 37 hand crews and 65 engine crews, and aided by 10 helicopters.

Redhorn fire

In the Mission Mountains north of Missoula, the lightning-caused Redhorn fire grew to 483 acres by Tuesday morning, up from 398 acres the day before. On Tuesday, 120 personnel were assigned to the blaze, aided by aircraft dropping water and fire retardant. Firefighters are working to construct a fuel break from McDonald Lake west along road M-3000, as well as above a canal in the area, to stop the fire from spreading downslope to the west toward structures. The fire, discovered Aug. 1, is about 7 miles northeast of St. Ignatius and just south of McDonald Lake on the west side of McDonald Peak, in the Tribal Mission Mountain Wilderness. The fire is in a grizzly bear management zone that is closed to recreation annually from July 15 to Oct. 1.
NEW ORLEANS (AP)  A man convicted and imprisoned for more than 20 years for the 1997 shooting death of another man in New Orleans was freed Monday after prosecutors agreed that his conviction should be vacated.

Court records show a motion to vacate the conviction of Cedric L. Dent, 47, in the shooting death of Anthony Milton was granted by a judge Monday and the district attorney's office agreed not to continue prosecuting the case.

The shooting happened outside a New Orleans supermarket, court records show.

The Innocence Project New Orleans organization said its investigation determined that prosecutors in the 1990s withheld documents that showed a witness to the shooting gave a description that didnt match Dent, and that a key witnesss story changed multiple times before he testified at the trial.

Cedric Dent is a victim of the failures of every system that was put in place to protect his rights as a person accused of a crime  a police department that did the bare minimum to investigate a serious crime; lawyers that didnt have the resources or the wherewithal to investigate his case; and a district attorneys office that concealed evidence that should have been turned over and would have helped Mr. Dent get the not guilty verdict he deserved at trial," Meredith Angelson, one of Mr. Dents lawyers, said in a statement released by the organization.

A statement from District Attorney Jason Williams' office noted that Dent had been convicted by a non-unanimous jury  a verdict that would not now be accepted under Louisiana law or U.S. Supreme Court precedent.

After a thorough review of Mr. Dents case, our office concluded that -- like many convictions decided by non-unanimous jury  his guilty verdict stemmed from a trial that was unfair precisely because one of the twelve jurors had voted to acquit and because of constitutionally ineffective assistance from his defense attorney, the statement said. The legal system failed Mr. Dent, and just as significantly, failed the victim of this crime and his family.

Innocence Project New Orleans said Dent was released Monday from the state penitentiary.

The organization said Dent is a nephew of another of its clients, Elvis Brooks. Brooks was freed in 2019 after serving 42 years for a killing connected to an armed robbery. Brooks was 62 at the time of his release. He always said he was not involved in the robbery. After IPNO found evidence that was withheld during his trial, prosecutors agreed to a deal that would free him if he pleaded guilty to the lesser crime of manslaughter. When he was released, Brooks said he pleaded to the charge to earn his freedom.
BUSHTON, Kan. (AP)  A buffalo charged and seriously injured a Kansas sheriff's deputy one day before the animal's owner was found gored to death, authorities say.

Ellsworth County Sheriff Murray Marston said in a news release that the buffalo had wandered onto a state highway and the deputy was trying to get the animal back in a pasture when it charged Sunday night.

A deputy from neighboring Rice County arrived and killed the buffalo when it appeared that it was preparing to charge again at the downed deputy. That deputy underwent surgery and is in stable condition, Marston said.

Then on Monday morning, dispatchers got a call from a woman who said that she had found her nephew, 56-year-old Scott Schroeder, of rural Bushton, dead in a pen and that she thought a buffalo had killed him. The body was in a row of trees not far from where the deputy was hurt, Marston said.

Schroeder owned the 20-plus buffalo that were being kept at that location, Marston said.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  The North Carolina attorney generals office, representing defendants in a 2019 case that blocked a state law banning most abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy, has joined plaintiffs in asking a federal court not to restore the ban after the judge suggested his injunction may now be contrary to law.

Reinstating restrictions in the aftermath of the June U.S. Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade would create significant risk of public confusion about the availability and legality of abortion services in North Carolina, the attorney generals office argued in a brief filed late Monday in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina.

Attorney General Josh Stein, an outspoken proponent of abortion access, told reporters last week that he was continuing to recuse himself from the case, despite Republican General Assembly leaders accusations that his politics were interfering with his duty to defend the law.

Staff attorneys in Stein's office filed the brief without the attorney general's involvement.

As attorney general, I will do everything in my power to protect womens right to reproductive care because its the right thing to do and because its necessary to create the kind of North Carolina we all want, Stein said Wednesday.

A month after U.S. District Judge William Osteen asked all parties in the case to file briefs explaining whether they think his previous ruling retains legal force in the absence of federal abortion protections, both parties said they do not see a strong legal argument for lifting the injunction at this time.

The two district attorneys who are named parties in the case said they have no intention to exercise that enforcement authority over the 20-week ban. Steins office said none of the states other district attorneys have indicated they would enforce the ban, either.

Though both parties oppose further action in the case, Republican legislative leaders are urging Osteen to move forward. Attorneys for Senate Leader Phil Berger and House Speaker Tim Moore, who are not named parties in the case, argued in a July 27 friend of the court brief that they had significant interest to intervene because Stein was avoiding his responsibilities by not seeking enforcement of the blocked 1973 state law.

The doctors who brought the case to court argue that because the legislative leaders are not named parties in the case, they should have to take additional steps for the court to consider their involvement.

Were confident that Judge Osteen will see through the political posturing of the plaintiffs and the attorney generals office and lift the injunction now that Roe and Casey have been overturned, said Berger spokesperson Lauren Horsch, referring to the two cases struck down by the Supreme Court on June 24.

Schoenbaum is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/H_Schoenbaum.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Matthew DePerno made his political reputation on loudly and repeatedly questioning the 2020 presidential election results. It gained him the fervor of Republican delegates and the endorsement of Donald Trump in his bid for attorney general.

But now the political novice is accused of helping obtain improper access to voting machines and intending to use them to further the false claims, just three months before voters head to the polls in this and other key statewide races in battleground Michigan.

The reliability of election systems and equipment was already at stake in the race, given DePerno's history, but Michigan political experts said the new accusations ensure the issue will play a critical role as voters decide whether to reelect Democratic incumbents or replace them with three Republicans who wooed primary voters by pledging their belief in Trump's false assertion that he won the election.

The accusations against DePerno became public this week as Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel acknowledged a clear personal conflict and asked that a special prosecutor be appointed to oversee the accusations against her opponent and others.

The Michigan Prosecuting Attorneys Coordinating Council, a state agency, said in a statement that it can take 60 to 90 days for its staff to review a request and select a prosecutor. That could mean the issue isn't resolved before the Nov. 8 election.

DePerno released a statement Sunday night denying the allegations and saying that the claims were purely based on political prosecution.

During a radio interview Monday morning, Deperno said that 90% of the facts that (Nessel) lays out, that she calls facts in her petition, are either false or I have no knowledge of what shes talking about.

The Kalamazoo attorney is a political novice whose embrace of Trump's lies about the 2020 election won him the former president's endorsement and later the state party members' nomination for attorney general over a former Michigan House speaker who narrowly lost to Nessel in 2018.

DePerno's legal career typically focused on tax cases, with rare public scrutiny. As his profile rose following Joe Biden's 2020 victory, a March report by Bridge Michigan found a series of disagreements with his former law partners over billing, clients and other court officials that caused some Republicans to question his readiness to serve as the state's top law enforcement official.

DePerno made a name for himself among Michigan activists on the right by suing Antrim County, claiming voting machines there recorded votes for Trump as being for Biden in the 2020 election. He also clashed with GOP leaders of the state Senate and raised money for attempts to challenge election results in other states.

Trump, though, gave DePerno his endorsement in September 2021 and DePerno relied on it to defeat two other candidates for the party's endorsement in April, despite public acknowledgement that he could be among those investigated by the state for profiting from allegations of election fraud in Antrim County.

The Antrim County suit was dismissed and a Republican-led state legislative panel found no evidence of fraud in Michigan's 2020 elections, calling DePerno's claims demonstrably false.

The allegations made public this week went even further  naming DePerno as one of the prime instigators of a plan to get improper access to voting machines and use them to dispute the 2020 presidential outcome.

According to documents released by Nessel's office, five vote tabulators were taken from Roscommon and Missaukee counties in northern Michigan, and Barry County in western Michigan. Investigators found others in the group broke into the tabulators and performed tests on the equipment.

It was determined during the investigation that DePerno was present at a hotel room during such 'testing,' the petition to the prosecutors' council said.

Obtaining undue possession of a voting machine used in an election is a felony punishable by five years in prison.

DePerno and the others named in the Michigan documents join others facing legal jeopardy for embracing Trump's election lies, including a Colorado county clerk indicted for planning to breach election equipment.

Bernie Porn, a nonpartisan pollster who's worked in the state for more than 30 years, said public opinion is against Republican candidates in several key areas, including abortion and the veracity of the 2020 presidential race. In a May poll conducted by his Lansing firm EPIC-MRA, Porn said 61% of Michigan general election voters said Biden won fair and square.

Among Democrats the total was 97% and among independents 66%

Based on those numbers, Michigan Democrats would be insane" not to highlight DePerno's legal woes this fall, along with the Republican slate's unanimous primary statements backing Trump's lie about the 2020 outcome, Porn said.

If I were running a campaign for any candidate running against the Republican candidates for governor, attorney general or secretary of state, Id advise them to constantly remind voters that these on the Republican side believe the election was stolen and they have yet to prove it, he said.

Even before the allegations became public, DePerno told Michigan reporters that the attorney general race shouldn't focus on the election issue.

Lets start talking about the real issues that are facing people every day in their budget and how theyre managing their families, he said following a June 30 gubernatorial debate.

Republican leaders in the state stood by DePerno following news of the investigation, with Meshawn Maddock, co-chair of the Michigan GOP party, tweeting that Nessel is hell bent on going after her political opponents.

Party Chairman Ron Weiser said he expects the party's formal nominating convention on Aug. 27 will back all of the candidates previously endorsed by party delegates, including DePerno. He said Republicans have a great opportunity this fall in Michigan and questioned the timing of Nessel's request, accusing her using her office to target a political opponent.

The public is sick and tired of what happened during the pandemic, as well as whats happening now between Gretchen Whitmer and her allies, he said.

Foody reported from Chicago. Cappelletti is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Money from the sale of Florida beachfront property where a collapsed condominium tower once stood will be used to pay property taxes of the destroyed units, a judge ordered Monday.

Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Michael Hanzman said in a brief ruling that the 2022 tax payments should not be deducted from the $96 million previously earmarked to compensate owners of the 136 units of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Florida. The building collapsed June 24, 2021, killing 98 people.

Hanzman said the taxes should not be paid by the owners. Instead, the taxes  a little under $800,000 combined, county officials say  should be paid from excess funds available from the $120 million sale of the land formerly occupied by the 12-story building.

The issue arose after the court-appointed receiver in the case, attorney Michael Goldberg, told unit owners in a letter they would be liable for the taxes just as if their condos had been sold. The judge's order came just after the Miami Herald published a story Monday about the unresolved tax matter.

Oren Cytrynbaum, whose family owned two units in the building, said he was grateful the judge dealt with the issue quickly so owners would be spared further expense  even if it was a few thousand dollars each.

Every dollar counts for the victims. It's still a struggle, Cytrynbaum said in an interview. Everybody wants to move on and go to the next chapter. I think we're getting there."

Champlain Towers property taxes for 2021 were waived last year by the state Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis. But until Hanzman's ruling, there was no effort to forgive the 2022 tax bills.

The judge said that Goldberg, as the receiver, has had actual possession of the property throughout 2022 rather than the unit owners. The tax amounts vary based on a unit's size and where it was located.

The judge in June approved a $1 billion fund for people who lost family members in the collapse, as well as those who suffered physical or mental injuries. The $96 million is for loss of property, including the condo units themselves.

The money comes from 37 different sources, including insurance companies, engineering firms and a luxury condominium whose recent construction next door is suspected of contributing to structural damage of Champlain Towers South. None of the parties admit any wrongdoing.

A billionaire developer from Dubai is purchasing the 1.8-acre (1-hectare) beachside site for $120 million, contributing to the settlement.

Hanzman has been conducting a series of hearings on individual claims by collapse victims about the amount of compensation for a family member's death, which he recently described as harrowing.

It's a brutal process, the judge said. I just don't want to cause these families any more stress.

Champlain Towers South had a long history of maintenance problems and questions have been raised about the quality of its original construction and inspections in the early 1980s. Other possible factors include sea level rise caused by climate change and damage caused by salt water intrusion.

A final conclusion on the cause is likely years away. The National Institute of Standards and Technology is overseeing the investigation.
Emirates plans to increase flight frequencies to Mauritius to three services per day starting October 1, 2022, with the announcement coming close on the heels of re-introducing double-daily flights.



The additional evening frequency which will operate up till 31 January 2023 is in response to increased travel demand to and from Mauritius, and will boost connectivity to the island nation.



Emirates third-daily flight to Mauritius will operate with the following schedule (all timings local): EK 709 departs Dubai at 22:10 hrs and arrives in Mauritius at 04:45 hrs. EK 710 leaves Mauritius at 06:30 hrs, arriving in Dubai at 13:05 hrs.



The third-daily flight will boost seat capacity to and from Mauritius by approximately 35%, catering to the surge in demand and providing added support to the tourism industry during one of the busiest travel seasons.



The added frequency supplements the existing double-daily Airbus A380 services and will also offer customers travelling to Mauritius with more flexibility when planning their trip with the choice of an early morning arrival at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in addition to the existing EK 0701 service which arrives mid-morning, and EK 0703 that arrives early evening.



Travellers departing Mauritius will also have ample choice to connect safely and seamlessly to Dubai, and through Dubai onwards to Emirates global network of 130 destinations. All three daily flights offer code sharing with Air Mauritius to allow greater access and a seamless travel experience to and from the island nation.



Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group said: We thank the Mauritian authorities for considering our request to operate a third daily flight. Air connectivity is critical to international tourism, and these extra seats will help us bring even more visitors from across our network to Mauritius, and accommodate rising demand. Emirates is committed to playing a key role to promote inbound travel, and support the government in achieving its goal of hosting 1.4 million tourists by June 2023.



In May this year, Emirates renewed its MoU with the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) aimed at jointly promoting the island destination across Emirates global network. Mauritius is a very popular leisure destination, and continues to experience consistent growth post-pandemic.



Emirates third-daily flight between Dubai and Mauritius will provide around 30-40 tonnes of cargo belly-hold capacity for businesses, further opening global trade lanes through enhanced import and export opportunities.



Emirates started operations to Mauritius in September 2002 with three weekly flights and currently is in its 20th year of operations to the Indian Ocean destination.



Emirates has been building up connectivity in response to growing customer demand on the back of rising travel confidence and the easing of international travel protocols. Boosting connectivity and expanding its Tel Aviv schedule with a second daily flight, and recently resuming passenger services to London Stansted, Emirates has sufficiently restored its pre-pandemic frequencies as travellers return to the skies.  TradeArabia News Service
Were surrounded by public lands and opportunities to enjoy them. Whether hiking, bird and wildlife watching, angling, hunting, camping or scientific study, there are multiple ways to be sustained by wildlands. Its easy to take it for granted it will always be this way.

The Flathead-Lolo-Bitterroot Citizen Task Force understands our national forests transcend personal uses. The Lolo and Bitterroot National Forests hold some of the most ecologically significant public lands in the Northern Rockies, home to rare and unique wildlife; grizzly bears, wolverines, Canada lynx, and bull trout. We all have significant interest in management of our national forests.

With the scope of the changes all about us, its reasonable to ask if our favorite camping or fishing spot, hunting grounds or the places of solitude weve come to expect will still be here thirty years from now? Will adequate habitat for imperiled wildlife and fisheries remain? You have an opportunity to help answer these questions through the upcoming revisions to the Lolo and Bitterroot National Forest Plans.

More than 1.2 million acres of wilderness-quality lands remain unprotected and vulnerable to road building, logging, mining and excessive mechanized and motorized recreation. This region is connectivity central for wildlife. The Lolo National Forest has lands in three different Grizzly Bear Recovery Areas and is critically located between the Northern Continental Divide, Greater Bitterroot and Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystems. The Bitterroot National Forest connects this ecosystem to the rest of the Northern Rockies.

Each National Forest has a Forest Plan that guides management for decades. The Lolo and Bitterroot Plans were completed in 1986 and 1987 and are long overdue for revision. Much has changed, including 65,000 new residents in Missoula and Ravalli Counties and the growing specter of climate change. Revisions need to address the changes in the environment as well as socially and legally.

Recent Forest Plan revisions have been a disappointment. Previous commitments are being dropped and environmental analysis and public involvement constrained. The needs of fish and wildlife and the role of intact forests in mitigating the effects of climate change are not being fully considered. These issues need a seat at the table and a citizen plan needs to be considered by the Forest Service as one of the official alternatives. Thats where the Lolo-Bitterroot Partnership comes in.

The Lolo-Bitterroot Partnership citizen plan is based on the best available science and will protect our most valuable economic asset. It has the support of dozens of organizations, businesses and leading scientists. In an increasingly overcrowded world, the need for solitude is more important than ever. As Aldo Leopold wrote, what good are forty freedoms without a blank spot on the map?

Opportunities for solitude and spiritual growth are being reduced and competition for the areas that remain has increased. Use limits, advance reservations, lotteries and ticketed access are on the rise. Some say Montana is Colorado 100 years ago. In thirty it may be Colorado today. Even now the sprawl of human residences into our forests has led the Forest Service to declare massive areas as Wildland-Urban Interface with timber projects that seriously diminish intact forests, wildlife habitat and scenic viewsheds.

Lets roll up our sleeves and make an alternative plan a reality. If we keep dividing up the pie it will leave tiny fragments that require limited access and reductions in fishing and hunting seasons and solitude, and quality wildlife habitat will become a thing of the past.

To learn more about the Lolo-Bitterroot Partnership and how you can get involved in the revision process, please look for our table in downtown Missoula on Saturdays and visit montanaforestplan.org
Fatima's application to enter the U.S. on humanitarian grounds has been pending for her entire life.

In September, Fatima will turn 1, as will the emergency immigration application that was submitted to the U.S. government on her behalf a week after her birth.

Against seemingly insurmountable odds faced by other Afghans seeking U.S. entry, Fatima's parents were granted special permission to enter the U.S. last year because of her father's work in the Afghan presidential palace before the Taliban reconquered Afghanistan, government documents show.

But the U.S. has yet to adjudicate the application filed on behalf of Fatima, who was born just 16 days after her parents' petitions were approved. The 10-month wait has placed the family in legal and emotional limbo, testing their faith in the U.S. and its promise of providing refuge to vulnerable Afghans.

"We are in a very bad situation," said Fatima's father, Mohammed, whose application for humanitarian parole, the special permission to enter the U.S., was granted on September 1, 2021. "Day by day, the situation is tough. This is exactly like a prison."

The family has been stuck in the United Arab Emirates since their evacuation from Afghanistan in October 2021. They asked for their names to be changed, citing concerns about their safety and that of relatives in Afghanistan due to Mohammed's work as a high-level official in the presidential palace.

Mohammed, his wife and Fatima are among thousands of Afghan evacuees who have been stranded in third countries for months  and in many cases, for close to a year  anxiously waiting to find out whether the U.S. will agree to resettle them, even nearly a year after the fall of Kabul and the chaotic U.S. evacuations.

Roughly 6,500 Afghan evacuees remain at the Emirates Humanitarian City, an apartment complex in the outskirts of Abu Dhabi that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) agreed to convert into a makeshift refugee housing facility, according to previously undisclosed U.S. State Department data shared with CBS News.

Story continues

Some of the Afghans in the Humanitarian City arrived in the UAE last summer, soon after the U.S.-aligned government in Kabul collapsed. Others were evacuated from Afghanistan last fall on charter flights overseen by nongovernmental groups.

Afghans rallied in an Afghan refugee camp in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, to protest the non-transfer to the United States on Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022. / Credit: Sayed Najafizada/NurPhoto via Getty Images

They include Afghans hoping to receive a Special Immigrant Visa because they assisted the U.S. war effort; families and individuals who believe they could be harmed by the Taliban because of their work, ethnicity, gender or other reasons; and other evacuees who managed to get on an evacuation flight.

Unlike more than 70,000 Afghans who were directly evacuated and then quickly resettled by the U.S. last year after some security vetting, those living in the Humanitarian City have been subjected to a slower, case-by-case immigration review by U.S. officials that does not include a guarantee of U.S. resettlement.

U.S. policy is responsible for the disparate processing. Afghans who were evacuated to the UAE before Aug. 31, 2021, were effectively guaranteed permission to enter the U.S. if they passed certain medical and security checks, the State Department told CBS News. But those who arrived after Aug. 31, 2021, have been required to prove they qualify for a U.S. immigration benefit, such as a visa or refugee status.

Kabul fell to the Taliban on Aug. 15, 2021, and the last U.S. military planes left the country just before midnight on Aug. 31. The rapid takeover sparked a humanitarian crisis, displacing millions of Afghans. Hundreds of thousands crossed the border into neighboring Pakistan, including unregistered refugees living in makeshift shelters who told CBS News about their plight in June. In a U.S. military base in Kosovo, Afghan evacuees subjected to heightened vetting told CBS News they felt "like prisoners."

The State Department said the U.S. is reviewing the cases of all Afghans left at the Humanitarian City. The department said the U.S. has continued to process some Afghans there, noting that a total of 17,000 evacuees have passed through the Humanitarian City and that most who have departed have been resettled in the U.S.

But the State Department acknowledged that not all Afghans in the Humanitarian City will qualify for U.S. resettlement, saying it has been urging other countries to resettle those evacuees.

"The United States is fully committed to supporting Afghans at Emirates Humanitarian City to reach their final destination," the State Department said in a statement. "We expect to welcome thousands more individuals to the United States in the near term as our commitment to our Afghan allies is enduring."

But advocates have argued that Afghans at the Humanitarian City have been unjustly treated differently, and even ignored, simply because of the plane they were evacuated on and who oversaw their evacuation.

Joseph Robert, a U.S. veteran who oversaw the evacuation and relocation of some Afghans to the UAE, said it has fallen on private American citizens and the Emirati government to help at-risk Afghans who were left behind following the hurried U.S. military withdrawal.

"Those Afghans in the UAE have been left in limbo, uncertain of their future, unable to provide for their loved ones still suffering in Afghanistan, while the burden of support has been left in the hands of the American people and a foreign nation that sacrificed their time, money, and resources to do what was right," Robert said.

While it's unclear whether there's a firm deadline to relocate the remaining Afghans at the Humanitarian City to the U.S. or third countries, a facility in Leesburg, Virginia, that has been used by the Biden administration to process new Afghan arrivals is set to run out of congressional funding at the end of September.

It's also unclear how long the Emirati government is willing to provide housing and other basic necessities to Afghans. In a statement to CBS News, the UAE government said it was working with the U.S. "to resettle Afghan evacuees in a timely manner," noting the deal to house them was made on a "temporary basis."

"The UAE remains committed to this ongoing cooperation with the US and other international partners to ensure that Afghan evacuees can live in safety, security, and dignity," the Emirati government added, saying it is providing sanitation, health, clinical, counseling, education and food services to Afghans.

For Mohammed, the former presidential palace official, the wait has become unbearable. Whenever they see other Afghans leave the Humanitarian City, his family feels a sense of hopelessness, Mohammed said.

The situation has been made worse, he said, by the fact that they are not allowed to leave the Humanitarian City. "Day and night, we are in the room," Mohammed added, saying the prolonged and indefinite stay has harmed his family's mental health.

Elizabeth Rieser-Murphy, an attorney for the Legal Aid Society who is representing Mohammed's family, said the baby's humanitarian parole application should be prioritized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) because of her age and the agency's approval of her parents' petitions.

"We understand that USCIS has limited resources given the number of pending parole applications, but this situation is an exceptional circumstance. It is unfair and inhumane to keep this family in limbo," Rieser-Murphy said, noting the family has U.S. citizen relatives in New York ready to welcome them.

Since July 2021, USCIS has received approximately 48,900 humanitarian parole requests from Afghans abroad, unpublished USCIS data show. Out of the 8,427 parole applications it had adjudicated as of July 28, USCIS denied 8,058 cases, or nearly 96% of them, according to the agency data.

If his baby is not allowed to enter the U.S. and his family is forced to return to Afghanistan, Mohammed said he could be imprisoned or even killed, citing accounts of former Afghan government officials disappearing or being slain by the Taliban.

"Maybe this is the future of our lives," he said.

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JACKSON, Miss. - Donald C. Faucett, M.D., has joined the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) in the role of regional health officer for the Central Public Health Region.

Faucett, a Madison resident, most recently served as the chief medical officer and director of health services at the Mississippi Department of Corrections, as well as a physician with Addictionology Medical Associates of Vicksburg.

He is a graduate of Mississippi State University, and studied premedical curriculum at Millsaps College before receiving his doctor of medicine degree at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) School of Medicine in 1982.

Faucett has previously served as the alcohol and drug director at Harbor House Clinical Dependency Services, a clinician and medical director with TrustCare Express Medical Clinics and MEA Medical Clinics, chief of ophthalmology at St. Dominics Hospital, and an attending physician in the department of ophthalmology for oculoplastic surgery at UMMC.

"Dr. Faucett will be an incredible asset to our team at MSDH," said State Health Officer Dr. Dan Edney. "The fact that he's held a similar position at another state agency is a huge plus. We are thrilled that he's now joining us in the public health realm."

Faucett was named to his position on July 16, 2022.

Follow MSDH by e-mail and social media at HealthyMS.com/connect.

Press Contact: MSDH Office of Communications, (601) 576-7667

Note to media: After hours or during emergencies, call (601) 576-7400
A group of Ramsay residents has appealed a recent Butte-Silver Bow Zoning Board ruling to state District Court in another attempt to block construction of a Loves truck stop on I-90 next to their tiny community.

They filed the appeal on Tuesday, the same day District Judge Robert Whelan of Butte formally put construction permits allowing work on the project back into play. He had previously stayed most of the permits pending a Zoning Board decision on the matter.

That decision came on July 21 when the Zoning Board determined the truck stop was allowed under Butte-Silver Bow zoning laws. The 5-0 vote backed an April 29 decision by county planning staff to issue final building permits for the sprawling complex.

Board members said they understood residents opposition to a truck stop but the board was acting in a quasi-judicial role and the only issues before it were whether zoning allowed the development and whether staff acted appropriately and lawfully in issuing the permits.

The board answered yes to both questions though at least one board member, Tyler Shaffer, urged residents to appeal the case so they could actually have their day in court.

In their appeal filed Tuesday, residents again contend that the truck stop is not permitted under Ramsay zoning boundaries and provisions that were added to Butte-Silver Bow ordinances in 1993. They also say the county relied on an outdated 1972 zoning drawing.

The appeal notes the Zoning Board discussion on July 21 before members upheld the construction permits. Each member expressed displeasure with the development but said they were not the proper body to overrule the planning department, the appeal says.

Several of the board (members) noted they believed they were unqualified to make the decision and one noted he had to trust our planning staff, the appeal says. Another board member (said) we cant go against staff. At least one board member stated that this was a matter better suited for the Court.

County officials contend the 1972 zoning map, though its in crayon, is the correct map and a later map was changed to reflect it. Under that and zoning provisions, the county says, most of the Loves complex is on unzoned land and the small parts that are in Ramsay zones are allowed there.

Oklahoma City-based Loves Travel Stops & Country Stores has 590 locations across the U.S. This one would include a convenience store, Arbys restaurant, casino, tire shop and spaces for 111 semis.

Residents have fought Loves on all government, regulatory and legal fronts, saying the truck stop will bring traffic, noise, pollution, transients and crime to their quiet community of 40 houses and five square blocks. But they have lost nearly every battle.

After the Zoning Board ruling, Loves filed a motion asking Judge Whelan to lift the permit stays so construction work on the project could resume. An attorney for Ramsay residents filed an initial response saying he didnt oppose that request.

Whelan issued an order Tuesday lifting the stays, saying, Loves may proceed with construction and related activities in furtherance of the permits without the necessity of posting a bond.

The appeal filed Tuesday was assigned initially to District Judge Kurt Krueger. In it, Ramsay residents asked that any further construction be prohibited until the court rules on the appeal.

All cases are different but in general, courts in Montana give great deference to decisions by local zoning boards. Last week, District Court Judge Luke Berger upheld a Butte-Silver Bow Zoning Board decision blocking a giant solar project that would have sprawled across parts of south Butte.
A Missoula man faces the possibility of life in prison for allegedly sexually assaulting three underage girls in the area during a two-year period.

Tyler Wayne Goeres, 37, appeared in Missoula County District Court on Tuesday after being arrested on a warrant Monday. Hes been charged with sexual assault of a minor, attempted sexual assault of a minor and sexual intercourse without consent, all felonies.

Goeres, who did not have an attorney at the time, did not make a plea to District Judge Dusty Deschamps on Tuesday. If he is convicted on all charges, he could face up to 300 years in prison and a $150,000 fine.

Charging documents allege on Oct. 28, 2020, that a victim approached her school counselor and said she had been assaulted. School officials told Missoula Police Department detectives, who allege that the victim was assaulted by Goeres in her house while she was asleep.

Goeres is alleged to be dating the victim's mother and lived with the victim, according to charging documents.

Detectives also interviewed the victims aunt and a friend of the victim, who both experienced similar situations. The aunt alleged Goeres assaulted her when she was as young as 15, at houses in Bonner and Missoula, according to charging documents.

The victims friend alleged Goeres assaulted her at a sleepover when she was 11 in 2020. The most recent alleged assault happened to the first victim in June 2022.

Goeres bail is set at $100,000. He is currently not allowed to contact the victims, or any minor. He is also banned from where children congregate, like schools, parks and playgrounds.
WAPELLO - A final decision on the possibility of selling portions of the Louisa County Conservation Boards (LCCB) disjointed Hoover Nature Trail system to adjacent property owners was postponed Monday during the LCCBs regular monthly meeting.

Although the board did review a submitted bid from one landowner, no action was taken and the bid amount was not announced. However, the board did agree to hold a special meeting on Wednesday to consider the bid and options for other sections of the trail.

According to previous discussions, the LCCB acquired the former railroad right of way in the early 2000s from Hoover Nature Trail, Inc. The nonprofit trail group had acquired the land around 35 years ago, with the idea of establishing a trail from Cedar Rapids to Burlington.

Portions of the right of way however were claimed by adjacent property owners through reversion and other court action, which created problems in developing the extensive trail originally envisioned. The portions acquired by the LCCB had apparently not been claimed and have survived a court challenge.

Since then, the LCCB has developed portions of the right of way near Morning Sun and Columbus Junction as trails, while other portions have been mowed and are available for public use.

The ownership issue though has continued to simmer and several landowners, including some who believe they are the actual owners of the right of way, have recently asked the conservation board to settle the issue.

At last months LCCB meeting, members agreed to offer portion of the right of way south of Iowa Highway 78 to adjacent landowners. Another section between Morning Sun and Wapello was also offered.

Ron McDonald presented the bid during Mondays meeting for parcels adjacent to his farm corporations property south of Highway 78. He also indicated a willingness to acquire additional portions that are adjacent to other property owners in that area.

Meanwhile, the LCCB also offered to accept a bid from Blacks Bluff, Inc., for a parcel that cuts through its property between Wapello and Morning Sun. Bill Black said his father had originally felt he owned the parcel and had cleared it for row crops around 30 years ago.

My dad wouldnt have done that if he didnt own it, he told the group.

LCCB Joellen Schantz reminded the group the boards intent was to sell those portions of the former railroad property to adjacent owners and use the proceeds to develop other trail segments.

The board finally agreed to hold a special meeting, possible in closed session, on Wednesday to consider its next steps.

In other action, the board:

 Learned no bids for concrete work at Eden Park for playground installation had been received;

 Agreed to accept a $36,000 bid from French-Reneker to conduct a survey of the Indian Slough Wildlife Area. The survey is intended to identify wetland and other easements that were reportedly established about 35 years ago;

 Approved an inspection and recertification bid from ABBE, Inc., for the high ropes course at Langwood;

 Agreed to develop a bid package for a new pickup and mower;

 Learned the maintenance shop needs a new roof and agreed to seek American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds from the supervisors. The supervisors may also be asked to support other projects with the countys ARP funding.
Alex Jones isnt even a real person. He is an actor playing a role created by the CIA to delegitimize reports on the latest conspiracy. The gub-ment just has Jones report on whatever underhanded program is ongoing, instantly no one believes its real anymore, and our lizard overlords can get away with anything. WAKE UP PEOPLE!!!

Just kidding. I have no reason to believe our intelligence community is allied with Alex Jones, nor that he isnt a real person. We do love a good conspiracy theory. Hey, a conspiracy brought to light is a conspiracy stopped. Cant find any proof online? It must be censorship.

While I myself believe many people in the government are acting for reasons of self-interest or political expediency and not in the overall publics best interest, Ive been around enough local and state government proceedings to know that those people couldnt agree on anything long enough to pull off something that underhanded.

I was thinking about this after coming across a website that claimed a recent murder/suicide at Maquoketa Caves State Park was done by crisis actors. Lets use this as an example and look at what would be required to fake something like that. Everyone within several miles would have to be in on it. All law enforcement, the coroner, emergency responders, and campers would have to be part of the conspiracy. They whole area would have to be under their control, as one person shooting video with a cellphone and getting the wrong thing could ruin the whole illusion. All reports from coroners and state law enforcement would have to be fake. Once the whole thing is over, whoever is in charge would have to do away with all of those people involved to prevent any of them from getting a case of conscience and blowing the whistle.

Alex Jones is not a journalist or a political figure  he is an entertainer. So was Rush Limbaugh. So is Cenk Uygur and Ana Kasparian. They could be very loosely called political commentators, but really their stock and trade is telling people with certain political viewpoints what they want to hear. Jones went over the line and said the Sandy Hook mass shootings were done by crisis actors. As a result, at least one of the victims family was getting death threats. This is not OK, and Jones is now going to pay the price for it. Of course, how many instances have there been where the actual media covered a story in a slanted way where people got death threats? Im really thinking about the Covington kids here.

Anyone who buys into Alex Jones would do good to dig up a recording of his show from Dec. 31, 1999. Throughout the evening he was reporting that the Y2K bug was taking hold and power was shutting down all around the world. We just lost Australia!!!

So, dont worry, the world isnt being manipulated by disguised lizard people  although in the cases of people like Mark Zuckerburg, Bill Gates, or Klaus Schwab, if it were true, it would explain a lot. BTW  Im not joking. The London Guardian reports over 12 million people believe alien lizards in people suits control us. (Thats the 1980s miniseries V)

Im not sure what we need conspiracy theories for when there are real issues that are just as outlandish. We are dealing with a cover up of the dealings of Jeffrey Epstein, political figures discussing laws to control women from travelling to other states, and, believe it or not, there is even talk in the physics community to block out the sun to control global warming (Simpsons did it).

Of course I may be wrong. Recently the UN has gone on the offensive against conspiracy theories that they are under the control of global elites. An article sent to the newsroom had sufficiently creepy prose  The United Nations has declared war on conspiracy theories, describing the rise of conspiracy thinking as "worrying and dangerous," and providing the public with a toolkit to "prebunk" and "debunk" anybody who dares to suggest that world governments are anything but completely honest, upstanding and transparent. If I wasnt worried about conspiracies before, I sure am now. All hail our lizard overlords.
DES MOINES  A southwest Iowa company that makes metal castings used by military contractors in helicopters and other equipment has reached a settlement in a lawsuit alleging the company failed to test the castings and falsely certified test results over seven years.

Wellman Dynamics, a Creston company that manufactures large metal castings used by military contractors including Bell Helicopter, Sikorsky Aircraft and Boeing Co. will pay $500,000 in restitution to the U.S. government to settle the allegations, court documents indicate.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court against Wellman after employee Bradley Keller filed a complaint under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Keller had worked in areas of the factory responsible conducting various tests on the metal to ensure it met quality standards. He said after he reported the improper testing and falsification of records between 2014 and 2021 he was laid off, but documents indicated he was later rehired.

Keller will receive $90,000 out of the settlement amount under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claim act. The company also must pay him $15,000 to settle a retaliation claim and his attorneys more than $63,000.

A U.S. Department of Justice official said in a statement that proper testing is critical for ensuring the proper performance of the equipment that is provided to the military.

We will hold accountable those who knowingly falsify or fail to conduct required tests and put our military at risk. said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the departments civil division.

In the settlement agreement the company denies the allegations but indicated the case was settled to avoid the delay, uncertainty, inconvenience and expense of protracted litigation of the claims.

The company and its attorney did not immediately reply to a message.

The agreement does not prevent the government from investigating further and pursuing criminal charges against some individuals if warranted. The company must cooperative with any such investigation.
Jacqi Muratori, owner-director of NV Dance Company, said she started dancing at the age of 3 and fell in love with it.

In 2019 she was asked to take over Napa Valley Ballet.

After some pretty big obstacles and hurdles, I was able to take Napa Valley Ballet and turn it into NV Dance Company," she said. "I kept the business as a nonprofit, so I could continue offering scholarship classes for those who need it.

NV Dance Company is located at 2931 Solano Ave. in Napa.

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.

1. What was your first job?

My very first job was as a dance teacher at Academy of Danse here in Napa when I was in high school.

2. What job would you like to try/not try?

Try: A couple of months ago I was invited by Lucky Penny Productions to choreograph their musical "Bright Star." It was so much fun, and I had a great time. I would love to do more choreography for musicals or theater pieces.

Not try: I would not want to be an air traffic controller. That seems extremely stressful.

3. Whats your favorite kind of dance to teach?

Contemporary. I like contemporary because I feel like it is a freer form of dance, and you can express yourself easier and blend all different kinds of dance styles to make it more intricate and original.

4. Whats your favorite age to teach?

I like them all for different reasons, (but) my favorite is probably the 10 to 12 range, because they are hungry and havent really developed that teenage idea of what (dance) is supposed to be like.

5. What kind of dance music do you like?

I like hard-hitting beats, loud acoustics, big moments  songs that just grab your attention.

6. Whats a common question you get about NV Dance Company?

The one I get the most is about it being a nonprofit. What I like about it is you can offer scholarships to people in the community, and get funding from sponsors, because its tax-deductible. The more donations I get from the community and businesses, the more scholarships I can offer to the community.

10 Questions: Napa bartender Eggan takes pride in the pour 10 Questions: Has this guy ever poured a drink for you? Meet Mark Eggan of Wine Country Bartending.

7. Whats on your to-do list?

To continue to empower the youth in our community through dance. Dance builds confidence, determination, strength and friendship. It creates a safe space for these kids to express their emotions and vulnerabilities without being judged. I just want to continue to foster that.

8. If you could change one thing about the dance industry, what would it be?

At times it feels a little divided in the dance industry. I think I would love to see more collaboration between local studios and programs. There are so many talented dancers in this valley. It would be cool to collaborate to create a positive environment where they could take classes from instructors from multiple studios.

9. What is one thing you hope to accomplish in your lifetime that you havent yet?

Honestly, I am living my dream every day. I have a wonderful husband, two amazing children and a loving dance family. I dont want anything else.

10. Whats something people might be surprised to know about you?

I have a masters degree in English literature, and I spent 13 years working as a 911 dispatcher for the city of Napa.
Despite offering what was once believed to be an "elitist" workout routine, Club Pilates is on a mission to change the stigma surrounding Pilates and make the mind-body principles and high-quality equipment-based workout available to all.

Thats why Maud Pansing decided to introduce Club Pilates to the Napa area, according to a news release from the company. The premium boutique Pilates studio opened July 21 at in the Silverado Plaza, at 651 Trancas St. in Napa.

Im beyond excited to bring the Club Pilates experience to the Napa community (by) offering a variety of equipment and classes that keeps the workout interesting and fun, said Pansing.

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Club Pilates offers low-impact, full-body workouts that are effective for people of all ages, the statement said.

Pilates is known to strengthen and lengthen muscles, improve posture, balance and mobility, helping members feel their best and live life to its fullest, according to the release.

This studio is part of a California female-founded brand that has grown internationally while still maintaining a local community ownership approach, the release said.

The Napa location is owned and operated by Pansing, who has spent her career in global marketing, working in the premium beauty industry, and most recently for E & J Gallo Winery premium business unit, where she led marketing for Napa based brands like Louis M. Martini and William Hill and Sonoma based J Vineyards and Winery.

After years of global travel and corporate jobs, the pandemic offered an opportunity for Pansing to rediscover Pilates, she said.

When exploring opportunities outside of the corporate world, she came across Club Pilates, which enabled her to combine her passion for Pilates, business and teaching.

Not only did Pansing decide to open her own studio in a location she fell in love with during her work at E&J Gallo, but she also embarked on the Club Pilates Teacher Training to become an instructor herself.

Pilates has so many incredible health benefits but people typically believe its an expensive workout," said Pansing. "Club Pilates is different than other studio programs as it has made the workout more accessible to a broader group of people.

The bright Napa studio welcomes members into a supportive atmosphere where they can choose a class type for every body  from high intensity and strength training to mobility and recovery. Guests can experience the benefits of a workout using a variety of exclusive equipment, including reformers, EXO chairs, TRX, TriggerPoint and springboard.

Club Pilates not only offers group classes to members, it also offers two different teacher training programs, enabling more people to turn their passion into a career.

The 280-hour junior program certifies instructors on mat and reformer Pilates, while the comprehensive 500-hour program comprehensively certifies on all Pilates apparatuses.

The Napa studio began hosting its first junior teacher training program starting in late July into August with Master Trainer Tracy Matosich.

To celebrate its opening at 651 Trancas St., Club Pilates Napa is offering 20% off the first month of membership, said the release.
Angel Hope looked at the math test and felt lost. He had just graduated near the top of his high school class, winning scholarships from prestigious colleges. But on this test  a University of Wisconsin exam that measures what new students learned in high school  all he could do was guess.

It was like the disruption of the pandemic was catching up to him all at once.

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Nearly a third of Hopes high school career was spent at home, in virtual classes that were hard to follow and easy to brush aside. Some days he skipped school to work extra hours at his job. Some days he played games with his brother and sister. Other days he just stayed in bed.

Algebra got little of his attention, but his teachers kept giving him good grades amid a school-wide push for leniency.

It was like school was optional. It wasn't a mandatory thing, said Hope, 18, of Milwaukee. I feel like I didnt really learn anything.

Across the country, there are countless others like him. Hundreds of thousands of recent graduates are heading to college this fall after spending more than half their high school careers dealing with the upheaval of a pandemic. They endured a jarring transition to online learning, the strains from teacher shortages and profound disruptions to their home lives. And many are believed to be significantly behind academically.

Colleges could see a surge in students unprepared for the demands of college-level work, education experts say. Starting a step behind can raise the risk of dropping out. And that can hurt everything from a person's long-term earnings to the health of the country's workforce.

The extent of the problem became apparent to Allison Wagner as she reviewed applications for All-In Milwaukee, a scholarship program that provides financial aid and college counseling to low-income students, including Hope.

Wagner, the groups executive director, saw startling numbers of students who were granted permission to spend half the school day working part-time jobs their senior year, often at fast food chains or groceries. And she saw more students than ever who didnt take math or science classes their senior year, often as a result of teacher shortages.

We have so many students who are going on to college academically malnourished, Wagner said. There is no way they are going to be academically prepared for the rigor of college.

Napa Valley College graduates celebrate passage through adversity NVC students who persisted through pandemic, isolation and other challenges received the reward of an in-person graduation Thursday in Napa.

Her group is boosting its tutoring budget and covering tuition for students in the program who take summer classes in math or science. Still, she fears the setbacks will force some students to take more than four years to graduate or, worse, drop out.

The stakes are tremendously high, she said.

Researchers say its clear that remote instruction caused learning setbacks, most sharply among Black and Latino students. For younger students, theres still hope that America's schools can accelerate the pace of instruction and close learning gaps. But for those who graduated in the last two years, experts fear many will struggle.

In anticipation of higher needs, colleges from California to New Jersey have been expanding bridge programs that provide summer classes, often for students from lower incomes or those who are the first in their families to attend college. Programs previously treated as orientation are taking on a harder academic edge, with a focus on math, science and study skills.

In Hanceville, Alabama, Wallace State Community College this year tapped state money to create its first summer bridge program as it braces for an influx of underprepared students. Students could take three weeks of accelerated lessons in math and English in a bid to avoid remedial classes.

The school hoped to bring up to 140 students to campus, but just 10 signed up.

Other states have used federal pandemic relief to help colleges build summer programs. In Kentucky, which gave colleges $3.5 million for the effort this year, officials called it a moral imperative.

We need these people to be our future workforce, and we need them to be successful, said Amanda Ellis, a vice president of Kentuckys Council on Postsecondary Education.

After the pandemic hit, Angel Hope worked up to 20 hours a week at his job with a local nonprofit aid group. He felt the time away from school was worth it for the money, especially when nobody was paying attention in the online classes. With his parents away at work, he often felt alone, shunning social media for days and eating ramen noodles for dinner.

I think isolating myself was a little bit of my coping mechanism, he said. I was kind of like, Keep it in a little bit and youll get through it eventually.

The pandemic led many high schoolers to disengage at a time when they would usually be preparing for college or careers, said Rey Saldana, president and CEO of Communities in Schools, a nonprofit group that places counselors in public schools in 26 states.

His group worked in some districts where hundreds of students simply didnt return after classrooms reopened. In Charlotte, North Carolina, the allure of steady paychecks kept many students away from school even after in-person classes resumed, said Shakaka Perry, a re-engagement coordinator for Communities in Schools.

Perry and her colleagues spent last school year bringing students back to school and getting them ready for graduation. But when she thinks about whether they're ready for college, she has doubts: Its going to be an awakening.

A couple of months after struggling through his math placement test, Hope headed to the University of Wisconsin-Madison for six weeks of intense classes at a summer bridge program. He took a math class that covered the ground he missed in high school, and he's signed up to take calculus in the fall.

He also revived basic study skills that went dormant in high school. He started studying at the library. He got used to the rhythms of school, with assignments every day and tests every other week. He rediscovered what it's like to enjoy school.

Most importantly, he says it changed his mindset: Now he feels like hes there to learn, not just to get by.

After this, I definitely feel prepared for college, he said. If I didnt have this, I would be in a very bad place.

The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Associated Press writer Carrie Antlfinger in Milwaukee contributed.
LOS ANGELES  An aggressive push toward renewable energy has run headlong into anxiety over keeping the lights on in California, where the largest utility is considering whether to try to extend the lifespan of the states last operating nuclear power plant.

California is the birthplace of the modern environmental movement that for decades has had a fraught relationship with nuclear power, which doesn't produce carbon pollution like fossil fuels but leaves behind waste that can remain dangerously radioactive for centuries.

Now environmentalists find themselves at odds with someone they usually see as an ally: Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, a green energy advocate who supported the 2016 agreement calling for the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant to close by 2025 but now is a leading voice to consider a longer operating run.

Newsom often is mentioned as a possible presidential candidate and an attorney for a consumer advocacy group that routinely challenges plant operator Pacific Gas & Electric in rate cases believes national political ambitions" are at play.

The push to keep Diablo Canyon running is clearly coming from the governors office, said Matthew Freedman of The Utility Reform Network. Newsom is mindful that problems with electric system reliability can become a political liability and he is determined to take all possible actions to avoid any possibility that the lights go out in California.

Newsom certainly wants to avoid a repeat of August 2020, when a record heat wave caused a surge in power use for air conditioning that overtaxed the electrical grid. There were two consecutive nights of rolling blackouts affecting hundreds of thousands of residential and business customers.

In a statement, Newsom communications director Erin Mellon didn't address the question of politics but said the governor is focused on maintaining reliable energy for households and businesses while accelerating state efforts to meet his aggressive goals for reducing carbon pollution. He continues to support shuttering Diablo Canyon in the long term.

The debate over the plant comes as the long-struggling nuclear industry sees climate change as a reason for optimism. President Joe Biden has embraced nuclear power generation as part of his strategy to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, compared to 2005 levels.

Nuclear power provides roughly one-fifth of the electricity in the country, though generation produced by the industry has dropped since 2010. Saving a plant in green energy-friendly California would carry symbolic weight but the window to make an abrupt turnaround appears narrow.

PG&E CEO Patricia Patti Poppe told investors in a call last month that state legislation would have to be enacted by September to open the way for PG&E to reverse course. She said the utility faced a real sense of urgency because other steps would be required to keep the plant running, including ordering more reactor fuel and storage casks for housing spent fuel that remains highly radioactive.

Extending the plants operating life is not an easy option, Poppe said. The permitting and relicensing of the facility is complex and so theres a lot of hurdles to be overcome.

The plant on the coast midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco produces 9% of the electricity for California's nearly 40 million residents. The state earlier set aside up to $75 million to extend operation of older power plants scheduled to close, but its not yet clear whether taxpayers might be covering part of the bill  and, if so, how much  to keep Diablo running.

The Newsom administration has been pushing to expand clean energy, as the state aims to cut emissions by 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. California installed more clean energy capacity in 2021 than in any other year in state history, administration officials say, but they warn reliability remains in question as temperatures rise amid climate change.

For Diablo Canyon, the issue is whether the Newsom administration, in concert with investor-owned PG&E, can find a way to unspool the 2016 closure agreement agreed to by environmentalists, plant worker unions and the utility. The decision to close the plant also was endorsed by California utility regulators, the Legislature and then-Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown.

Plant workers now support keeping the reactors open for an extended run while anti-nuclear activists and environmentalists have rejoined a battle they thought was settled six years ago.

It only makes sense keeping Diablo open, said Marc D. Joseph, an attorney for the Coalition of California Utility Employees, which represents plant workers. There is no one involved who wants to see carbon emissions in California go up.

Critics question if it's feasible  or even legal  for the utility to break the agreement.

I dont know how to unwind it, and I dont think it should be unwound, said Ralph Cavanagh of the Natural Resources Defense Council, one of the groups that negotiated and signed the pact.

Friends of the Earth, another signatory of the deal, would oppose any effort to extend the reactors operating span. None of the conditions have changed to pull back on that agreement, said the groups president, Erich Pica.

There's also concern about the aging plant's safety. Construction at Diablo Canyon began in the 1960s and critics say potential shaking from nearby earthquake faults not recognized when the design was first approved  one nearby fault was not discovered until 2008  could damage equipment and release radiation.

Lifting the agreement would place huge numbers of people at great, great risk. Thats whats at stake here, said Daniel Hirsch, retired director of the program on environmental and nuclear policy at the University of California, Santa Cruz, and a longtime critic of nuclear plant safety.

PG&E, which has long said the plant is seismically safe, hasn't said much about whether it will push to extend operations beyond 2025. It is assessing that possibility while continuing to plan for closing and dismantling the plant unless those actions are superseded by new state policies," PG&E spokesperson Suzanne Hosn said in a statement.

PG&E is considering applying for a share of $6 billion in federal funding the Biden administration established to rescue nuclear plants at risk of closing. The utility announced the move after Newsom suggested a longer operating run would help the state deal with potential future electricity shortages.

The Energy Department recently recast rules at the request of the Newsom administration that could open the way for an application from Diablo Canyon. But some environmentalists question if those changes conflict with the federal law that provided the funds.

As part of the closure deal, the state granted PG&E a short-term lease for submerged ocean water intake and discharge structures through 2025, which also would have to be extended to keep the plant operating.

Factors cited in the lease agreement echo language in the closing pact, including that the utility would not seek an extended operating license and PG&E was expected to use that period through 2025 to develop a portfolio of greenhouse gas-free renewables and efficiencies to replace Diablo Canyon's power.

PG&E said in a statement it has met its replacement power requirements to date.

PG&Es decision to close Diablo Canyon came at a time of rapid change in the energy landscape.

With heavily Democratic California prioritizing renewables to meet future power demand, the utility predicted there would reduced need for power from large plants like Diablo Canyon after 2025. There was even the risk of too much power generation.

Rather than too much power, state officials have warned of possible electricity shortages this summer as a warming climate creates more demand for power, wildfires sometimes incinerate power lines and a long-running drought has reduced hydropower. An emerging tariff dispute  involving products assembled in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia using parts and components from China  has delayed solar and storage projects, administration officials say.

But environmentalists argue that a nuclear plant  generating large amounts of power continuously  is not a solution to fill occasional gaps, such as when solar dips after the sun sets.

Reliable electricity is not a 24/7 problem, said Cavanagh, of the NRDC. The last thing you want to solve a problem like that is a giant machine that has to operate 24/7 in order to be economic.
According to information published by the U.S. DoD on August 9, 2022, the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), attached to the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), arrived in Stockholm, Sweden for a scheduled port visit.

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San Antonio class amphibious transport dock USS Arlington (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

Arlington, with embarked elements of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is operating in the Baltic Sea to strengthen relationships with NATO allies and partners while conducting combined training and theater-security cooperation engagements.

This marks Arlingtons first time operating in the Baltic Sea since departing on deployment earlier this year, as well as the first time the ARG-MEU has fully aggregated in the Baltic.

Arlington entered the Baltic Sea after months of operations throughout European and African waters, including one bilateral exercise and three multinational exercises, as well as four scheduled port visits in Greece, Turkey, Tunisia and Croatia.

These exercises included Alexander the Great with Greece, EFES with Turkey, and African Lion on the northern coast of Africa. The ship completed a mid-deployment voyage repair in July in Rijeka, Croatia.

While in Sweden, Arlington Sailors and Marines will explore the historically and culturally significant city of Stockholm, learning its culture through Stockholm Old Town Walk and Stockholms Must Sees tours. The crew will also be able to participate in a Stockholm Craft Beer and Swedish Pop Wonders tour.

The Kearsarge ARG and embarked 22nd MEU are under the command and control of Task Force 61/2. In addition to Arlington, the ARG consists of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) and the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44).

As Arlington docks in Stockholm, Kearsarge is conducting a visit to Helsinki, Finland, and Gunston Hall calls on Tallinn, Estonia. These port visits demonstrate the United States commitment to working with key NATO allied and partner nations to preserve security and stability in the Baltic Sea region.

Embarked commands with the Kearsarge ARG include Amphibious Squadron SIX, 22nd MEU, Fleet Surgical Team 2, Fleet Surgical Team 4, Tactical Air Control Squadron 22, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 28, Assault Craft Unit 2, Assault Craft Unit 4, Naval Beach Group 2, and Beach Master Unit 2.

USS Arlington (LPD-24), a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, is the third ship of the United States Navy to be named for Arlington, Virginia. Officially, she was commissioned on 8 February 2013.
A former senator who worked for the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor was killed in an upscale neighborhood near Haitis capital and his body set on fire along with his nephew, Government Commissioner Jacques Lafontant told AP, the latter reported.

The bodies of Yvon Buissereth and his unidentified nephew were found in the community of Laboule. That is near Pelerin, where President Jovenel Moise was assassinated in his private home in July last year.

Buissereth, director of Haitis Public Company for the Promotion of Social Housing, and his nephew were traveling in a government-issued vehicle and were found inside the charred car, Lafontant said. He said a gang trying to control the area is likely to blame.

The Ti Makak gang, which means Little Macaques, is fighting with the Toto gang over control of that area. Gangs in the capital of Port-au-Prince and beyond have become more powerful and waged violent turf wars since Moise was assassinated.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry condemned Buissereths killing as a barbaric act by armed gangs in Laboule.
Nikkei: Apple in talks to manufacture Apple Watch and MacBook in Vietnam

Chery to release new flagship crossover Tiggo 9

FT: Risk of Eiffel Tower collapse due to rust will persist until 2030

Apple Inc. to introduce iPhone 14 on September 7

Cambodia accuses American billionaire of buying stolen sculptures

Suren Petrosyan: Aghavno systematically surrendered

UK inflation hits new 40-year high in July

What is reason for restrained US reaction to reports about Turkey's purchase of second regiment of S-400?

Germany warns gas will run out in less than three months if Russia completely cuts off supplies

Rescuer: Site is difficult, there are large structures, we try to cross sections piece by piece

Thames Water bans customers from using hoses for irrigation

Search operations at Surmalu shopping center ceased until morning

Most polluted cities revealed

Investor pessimism in Germany has worsened even more in August

Electricity prices in Europe continue to rise steadily

NATO to increase its peacekeeping forces in Kosovo in case of escalation of tensions with Serbia

OPEC Secretary General: Organization is not involved in gas and oil prices rise

Estonia to ban Russian citizens who received visa in third EU country from entering Estonia

Goldman Sachs: Europe's chances of recession are now twice as high as US

NEWS.am BREAKING on Yerevan market blast: 16 people killed, 1 person still missing

French MFA expresses solidarity with Armenia over Surmalu tragedy

Philippines ready to support US in case of war with China

Mayor of Venice looking for two 'pushy idiots' who raced Grand Canal

Mishustin and Pashinyan discuss cooperation in trade and economic sphere

Velayati says China is strategic ally of Iran

Norway will provide military aid to Ukraine

Garo Paylan appeals to Ankara Prosecutor's Office

Mourning liturgy for victims of explosion and fire at Surmalu will be held in Armenia

Iran to develop cooperation with Pakistan

UN Secretary General arrives in Lviv

Explosions and fires in at least 17 locations in southern Thailand

Lithuanian FM calls for cancellation of tourist Schengen visas for Russians

Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan sign agreement on international transit corridor

Management of Surmalu shopping center expresses condolences in connection with explosion

Wildberries denies information about leakage of customer data

1 injured in explosion has been discharged, and four citizens are currently undergoing treatment

Armenia Investigative Committee asks to hand over unused fireworks obtained from Surmalu market to police

Iranian Foreign Ministry aims to expand regional transit routes

Dollar falls, euro rises in Armenia

Eurozone GDP is up in second quarter

Charles Michel expresses his condolences in connection with Surmalu explosion

Israeli President welcomes Turkey's decision to restore diplomatic relations

Turkey decides to restore diplomatic relations with Israel

Five injured in explosion are being treated at medical centers

NYT: Western countries want to give Russian diamonds bloody status

Karabakh teen drowns in reservoir (PHOTOS)

More than 50 people questioned in Yerevan shopping market explosion criminal case

President: Armenia underscores development of mutually beneficial cooperation with Indonesia

Azerbaijan ombudsperson is interested in convicted Armenian captives

Kazakhstan President sends condolence message to Armenia PM

Armenia has new consul general in Russias Rostov-on-Don

No bombs found at Gyumri international airport, railway station

3 men who strangled Yerevan woman, 47, to death are arrested

People continue bringing flowers, toys nearby tragic Yerevan explosion site

Book of condolences opened at all Armenia diplomatic missions abroad

Bomb threat made at Gyumri international airport, railway station

Russian embassy upset by reports about Russia organizations participation in Yerevan market tragedy

Armenia ex-deputy PM Avinyan visits Yerevan market blast site

Yerevan market explosion: We have one missing person, Armenia official says

Armenia Prosecutor Generals Office: No one is charged in Yerevan market blast case

World oil prices going up

Day of mourning declared in Armenia, Artsakh today and tomorrow

Kazakhstan embassy offers condolences over Yerevan market explosion

People laying flowers nearby Yerevan market blast site

Newspaper: One person is charged in Yerevan market explosion case

Newspaper: Armenia ruling party plans to make state institutions employees become party members

Yerevan explosion: 2 people still being searched for

Yerevan market explosion: 2 people still considered missing as of midnight (PHOTOS)

Turkey launches airstrike on Aleppo countryside, 3 Syria soldiers dead

Is Western unity over Ukraine about to crack?

Which countries could survive nuclear war?

Surmalu re-inspection scheduled for November

In Lebanon, man who held hostages in bank released without charges

TerraPower of Bill Gates raises $750 million for projects in nuclear energy and medicine

China's 'Galaxy Fold clone' sold out in five minutes and became a bestseller

Germany plans to postpone closure of its last three nuclear power plants

Expert estimates environmental consequences of Yerevan explosion and gives advices

Switzerland signs agreement with Uzbekistan to return $131 million seized from Gulnara Karimova

Artsakh also declares mourning

Norway can no longer supply Germany with more gas
The Criminal Court of Appeal on Tuesday ruled that Aghvan Hovsepyanformer Prosecutor General and former Chairman of the Investigative Committee of Armeniashall continue to be remanded in custody.

Hovsepyan's attorneys had appealed the first instance court's decision to leave Hovsepyan's precautionary measure of arrest unchanged. They had motioned the court to commute his aforesaid precautionary measure to release on bailand due to Aghvan Hovsepyan's health condition.

According to the indictment based on the Special Investigation Service findings, Aghvan Hovsepyan, who held the post of Prosecutor General, then Chairman of the Investigative Committee, from 2004 to 2018, had legalizedi.e., money laundering1,299,404,414 drams (approx. $2,854,105), participated in the management of a number of business companies, taken 190 million drams (approx. $417,329) in bribes, and fraudulently stolen 800 million drams (approx. $1,757,177) worth of property.

Hovsepyan has been charged under several articles of the Criminal Code, and is remanded in custody.

Aghvan Hovsepyan does not accept the charge. His lawyers claim that Hovsepyan is illegally taken into custody, and demand that a criminal case be opened in this regard.
Arsen Mkrtchyan, a thief-in-law who is known in criminal circles as "Arsen Yerevanski," was released from custody in Armeniaand due to his health condition, Prime Crime reported on Tuesday.

Before that, Mkrtchyan was detained for 72 hours, and the court was considering the motion for his arrest.

Mkrtchyan, who occupies a high position in the criminal hierarchy since 1999, has created his own gang and is engaged in settling private disputes between other members of the criminal world.

In addition, this thief-in-law spies on the prisoners, monitoring that they follow the "code of conduct" of the criminal world. Arsen Mkrtchyan was going to punish one of the "violators" of this code by gathering information about him through his accomplices.
The hearing in the case of Arsen Mirijanyan will continue Tuesday at a Yerevan court. His attorney Ruben Melikyan informed about this on Facebook.

"Let me remind that the peculiarity of this case is that the prosecutor's office has invented a new crime not provided for by the criminal codethat is, forcing the prime minister, and inculpated it on my client. According to the accusation, my client forced the prime minister [Nikol Pashinyan] to resign for the heavy defeat we suffered because of him in the 44-day [Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh)] war [in the fall of 2020].

Arsen Mirijanyan, a resident of Moscow, sent large-scale aid to the Motherland throughout the war and after it, and now he is being tried under Article 301.1 [of the Criminal Code] for forcing the number one person responsible for the defeat to resign.

Today, Arsen will testify, and probably the court arguments will begin.

It will be interesting, and the [court] session is open", Melikyan added.
The Turkish authorities have proposed to save the European Union from the energy crisis with the help of an "energy corridor," following the example of the already operating grain corridor, the RBK newspaper quoted the Turkiye newspaper as saying.

Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to come up with such an initiative at the forthcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Uzbekistan. The proposal may include the transit of liquefied natural gas (LNG) through Turkey amid shrinking fuel supplies from Russia amid problems with equipment for the Nord Stream pipeline.

According to another Turkish publication, Yeni Safak, EU leaders plan to increase the capacity of the Trans Adriatic and Trans-Anatolian Pipelines (TAP and TANAP) to reduce dependence on Russian gas.

"The project, which extends from the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea, requires additional investments to increase gas supplies to Europe. Europe wants to increase the capacity of the Southern Gas Corridor, and in this context it seems technically possible to increase the capacity of TAP from 10 billion to 20 billion cubic meters. Increasing the capacity of TANAP from 16 billion to 24 billion cubic meters and then to 31 billion cubic meters is seen as a goal that can be achieved through investment," the newspaper reported.

In July, Turkey became an intermediary and guarantor in a deal between Moscow and Kiev on the export of Ukrainian grain for its further export. The cargoes are sent from Ukrainian ports through a safe corridor in the Black Sea. This is expected to help increase the supply of wheat on the world market and avoid a food crisis.
If Berdzor town and Aghavno village are handed over to Azerbaijan on August 25, Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) will be surrounded. Raffi Hovhannisian, former foreign minister of Armenia and Heritage Party leader, told reporters about this Tuesday at Republic Square in downtown Yerevan.

"A few days ago, we saw how the Secretary of the Security Council and the Minister of Foreign Affairs announced that they did not accept such a plan related to the handover of Berdzor; this was the opinion of Yerevan. And now, a few days after that announcement, a man decided that he should hand over native territories; the territories that were not even mentioned in the trilateral statement [of November 10, 2020]. Now it's already visible what 'lowering the benchmark' means," Hovhannisian said.

According to him, territories are being handed over unlawfully without considering the point of view of the Armenian people.

"[PM] Nikol Pashinyan is against the motherland. He has broken his constitutional oath to ensure territorial integrity, sovereignty, and life and safety of citizens. He needs to have that trait to remove himself [from power]. As we opened the 'road of life' before, now that 'road of life' will be closed by our own hands. We will have casualties, and citizen Pashinyan will be the culprit of those casualties," Raffi Hovhannisian said.
Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud's Humanitarian Aid Center has allocated $10 million to help Ukrainian refugees in Poland. The monarch's funds will be provided through the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the Polish publication TVP World reported.

As explained in a press release from the Saudi embassy in Warsaw, the main priority is the purchase and delivery of basic necessities and equipment for emergency medical care.

For his part, King Salman noted that relations between Saudi Arabia and Poland have strengthened in recent years, and the two countries share common values. He noted that just as Poland hosts many refugees from Ukraine, Saudi Arabia has welcomed more than one million people from Yemen and Syria, among others.
Talking with reporters Tuesday, former foreign minister of Armenia and Heritage Party leader Raffi Hovhannisian spoke about a noteworthy incident involving him in the capital Yerevan.

According to him, a few days ago he got into a taxi whose driver was an Azerbaijani.

"The taxi driver had an Armenian name. He said that there are many Azerbaijanis in Armenia. Then he started, like a politician, to say who Artsakh [(Nagorno-Karabakh)] belongs to. He was saying that Armenians lived in Artsakh, as they lived in Nakhichevan. (...) and he draws parallels that Armenians behaved like fascists. He says that [Azerbaijani President Ilham] Aliyev is like [Soviet political leader Joseph ] Stalin, who punished the German fascists. When I was getting out of the car, he says salam to me. I realize that he is an Azerbaijani living in Armenia," Hovhannisian said.
During Tuesdays Yerevan court session in the criminal case against Aghvan Hovsepyanformer Prosecutor General and ex-Chairman of the Investigative Committee of Armeniait was decided to include doctors in the forensic medical commission.

Both the defense attorneys and Hovsepyan never had anything to do with the respective candidates proposed by the defense, and the reputation of these physicians was taken into account.

The next court hearing in the abovementioned criminal case will convene on September 9.

Earlier in the day, the Criminal Court of Appeal had ruled that Hovsepyan shall continue to be remanded in custody. His attorneys had appealed the first instance court's decision to leave their clients precautionary measure of arrest unchanged. They had motioned the court to commute his aforesaid precautionary measure to release on bailand due to Hovsepyan's health condition.

According to the indictment based on the Special Investigation Service findings, Aghvan Hovsepyan, who held the post of Prosecutor General, then Chairman of the Investigative Committee, from 2004 to 2018, had legalizedi.e., money laundering1,299,404,414 drams (approx. $2,854,105), participated in the management of a number of business companies, taken 190 million drams (approx. $417,329) in bribes, and fraudulently stolen 800 million drams (approx. $1,757,177) worth of property.

Hovsepyan has been charged under several articles of the Criminal Code, and is remanded in custody.

Aghvan Hovsepyan does not accept the charge. His lawyers claim that he is unlawfully taken into custody, and demand that a criminal case be opened in this regard.
With such methods, the opposition will not achieve a change of power in Armenia. Armine Adibekyan, an expert on Azerbaijan affairs, told this to a press conference Tuesday.

"If the [Armenian] opposition thinks that on September 2 the people will assemble with the slogan Death to [PM] Nikol [Pashinyan] and the situation will change, then they are wrong. There is no change of power with such methods. If they know it, but don't do [it], then I can't say anything good about them," said Adibekyan.

She explained that in order to change the power, it is necessary to invest resources and invite specialists.

"People should be motivated to take action, and that motivation is formed as a result of correct, targeted work. The slogans of Paphos are of little interest to anyone. Area specialists should deal with these matters," the analyst emphasized.

Adibekyan is convinced that come September, the Armenian authorities will start a new round of repression.

The Armenian opposition plans to hold a rally on September 2, the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) Independence Day anniversary.
The Ukrainian state-owned company Ukrtransnafta stopped pumping oil through the southern branch of the Druzhba pipeline system on August 4. This branch transports crude to Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Transneft said it was unable to pay for transit services because of the European Union (EU) sanctions.

The oil coming through the Druzhba pipeline is not subject to EU sanctions. European countries imposed an embargo against the rest of Russia's oil as part of the sixth package of sanctions.

Transneft spokesman and presidential adviser Igor Demin told RIA Novosti that Ukrtransnafta completely stopped pumping through the southern branch of Druzhba at 6:10 on August 4. Transit of oil through Belarus in the direction of Poland and Germany continues. As Demin specified, the Ukrainian company renders services of oil transportation on the condition of 100% prepayment.

"When making a payment for transit through the territory of Ukraine, the funds were returned to the account of PJSC Transneft. Gazprombank, which services payments, notified us that the payment was returned due to the introduction of EU regulations, that is, the seventh package of sanctions. We informed the Russian Ministry of Energy, as well as Russian shippers supplying resources in the direction of these three countries, and Ukrtransnafta that the money is not going through and the payment cannot be made," a Transneft spokesman said.
Secretary of Artsakh Security Council Vitaly Balasanyan yesterday together with Azerbaijani officials visited Berdzor village and showed houses of its residents, which will be handed over to Azeris in the coming days, Berdzor resident Satik Asatryan told Aravot.am.

According to her, Berdzor residents gathered in the center of the village and suddenly they see Vitaly Balasanyan walking with Azerbaijani generals. "And it's not the first time he walks quietly with the Turks, we saw him at the Shushi checkpoints as well, how he talked nicely with them. And the Azerbaijanis are already looking at our houses, Vitaly showed them and assured them that no one would burn or tear down the houses, everything was normal. Can you imagine our condition?

"One very brave woman from our Berdzorians came up to Vitaly and said: Not only have you sold all our lands, but you also instructed the people not to cause any damage, for what? People have lived here for years, created here, and you say: close the doors with keys and hand them over to the managers. Have we also been sold together with Lachin? Vitaly looked at us in surprise, then they got into the car and drove away. Is it possible to do such a thing?" Asatryan complained.

"We tried to find out this information from Vitaly Balasanyan himself, but he did not answer our phone calls and our written inquiry," Aravot.am notes.
Western sanctions against Russia have given the Turkish steel sector an opportunity to serve as a warehouse and bridge. This was stated by the head of Istanbul Association of Exporters of ferrous and nonferrous metals (IDDMIB) Cetin Tekelioglu, citing increased interest from Russian companies, as well as companies from the EU seeking to sell to Russia through Turkey, Reuters reports.

He said Russia has increased demand for Turkish products, which it can no longer receive from European companies, and Turkish companies have received requests from European companies to supply Russia through Turkey. "What they (Russia) cannot buy from Germany, Italy and France, they are buying from us. Separately, a lot of EU companies are planning to sell their products to Russia via Turkey," he told reporters.

"They want to use Turkey as a warehouse and bridge, while Russia wants supply from Turkey," he said, adding that it was an "historic opportunity" for Turkish companies.

He did not name the companies or specify their numbers, but said they produce copper, aluminum, kitchenware and equipment.

According to IDDMIB, Turkey's ferrous and nonferrous metal exports in the first seven months of 2022 totaled 8.9 billion lira ($495.58 million), up 33 percent from a year ago. They accounted for 6.2% of Turkey's exports.

The data also showed that Turkey's ferrous and nonferrous metal exports to Russia rose 26% year on year to $170 million by Aug. 8.

Tecdelioglu said this could provide another opportunity for Turkish metal exporters.

Relations between the West and China also deteriorated after U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan last week, which Tekdelioglu said is another potential opportunity for Turkey. "We are receiving signals of some opportunities," he said.
There are no red lines in Russia's relations with Turkey with regard to concessions on Armenia. Andranik Ispiryan, a Turkologist, told NEWS.am. According to him, Russia will make as many concessions as the situation allows.

"However, Russia is not yet in a situation to make such serious concessions, but we see that everything is developing very quickly, and there are no guarantees in connection with what may happen with Russia. But there is no such danger in the near future," he said. According to Ispiryan's assessment, the worse Russia is doing in Ukraine, the less important the South Caucasus, including Armenia, becomes for Russia.

This creates threats in the region to Armenia's detriment. "History shows that decisions in the region have often been made at the expense of our interests. This threat still exists today. As the problems in Ukraine deepen, the most serious threat is posed by Russia's presence in the South Caucasus. Turkey, realizing the complexity of the situation, wants Russia to make concessions in the region to the detriment of Armenia and in favor of Turkey and Azerbaijan in an attempt to maintain its position in other directions," he added.

The meeting in Sochi for both Turkey and Russia the expert called a success. "Military action in Ukraine was a salvation for Ankara, because before that there were threats to the preservation of Erdogan's power at the end of the elections in 2023. The sanctions against Russia became a new direction for the Turkish authorities to increase their authority both inside the country and in foreign policy. At the end of the Sochi meeting, there was talk about energy cooperation, Syria, the food problem as a result of military actions in Ukraine. All this gave Turkey serious financial, energy opportunities, it became a hub for Europe against the backdrop of the energy crisis. For Russia, more markets have opened up in Turkey.

This means that Russia manages to break through Western sanctions through Turkey. This has been a source of concern around the world. Since the outbreak of hostilities in Ukraine, relations between Russia and Turkey have been warming even more. But this relationship is not based on trust, but on mutual interests. Both countries are trying to spread their influence in the region, aiming for the maximum, but in the current situation they have to go for cooperation," noted Ispiryan.
Armenia plans to launch a ferry service from the Georgian port of Poti to the Russian port of Kavkaz in August, Ministry of Economy told Sputnik Armenia.

"The timing of the launch of the ferry service is postponed mainly because of the sanctions against Russia. Work is being carried out to reduce the additional costs of transporting cargo by ferry from or to Armenia," the response reads.

The request emphasizes that Armenian authorities are discussing the issue with all the parties, including Georgia, to launch the ferry service more quickly. The Ministry assured that the problems are being solved and the ferry will start working this month.

The Ministry of Economy believes that the ferry service will positively affect the export of Armenian goods to international markets, increase the volume of cargo transportations and make the logistics infrastructure more accessible to carriers. Besides, subsidizing the ferry transportation by the state will become a new stimulus for the economy of Armenia. Thanks to this, the ferry crossing can become a worthy competitor to the road through Upper Lars IACP.

According to the decision of the Armenian Government dated March 24, 2022, the ferry operator, a local logistics company C&M International, is planned to make voyages from Poti port to Caucasus port and back twice a week.

The agency believes that the ferry connection will also activate the railway traffic, contribute to an increase in export volumes, as well as reduce the time goods spend on the way.

"The average time for cargo transportation from Armenia to Russia (via Lars) is 7 days and it can be shortened up to 3 days by the ferry," the Ministry noted.

The Economy Ministry believes that the closure of the road from Georgia to Russia through Upper Lars IACP (considering that it is the main direction for the export of goods from Armenia to Russia) negatively affects the Armenian economy and export indicators.

With regard to the situation around Upper Lars, the Armenian cabinet is working on several fronts. An agreement has been reached with Georgian counterparts for prompt passage of perishable goods.

The Ministry of Economy reminded that on July 11 Armenian Minister of Economy Vahan Kerobyan met Russian Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov at Upper Lars checkpoint. An agreement was reached on providing additional territory for customs clearance. As a result throughput capacity of Armenian cargoes in July increased by 10% in comparison with June.

Recall that regular ferry service between the Georgian port of Poti and the Russian port of Kavkaz was scheduled to be launched on June 15. However this did not happen due to political reasons. The Poti port is operated by Dutch subsidiary APM Terminals, which has to obtain a permit from the parent company to give the green light to the ferry service.

Armenia has long considered a multimodal type of transportation as an alternative to Lars. It is assumed that cargoes from Armenia will be delivered to Poti by rail or by trucks, and then by containers on ferries to the Russian port Kavkaz and other cities of Russia.

Fruit and vegetable exporters, who have drastically increased their seasonal transportation to Russia since June, can use the ferry. The capacity of the ferry is 50 trucks and 40 cars. At that the Armenian government will fully subsidize the ferry expenses for the first 6 months.
US President Joe Biden has signed documents approving the entry of Finland and Sweden into NATO, Reuters reports.

Tippmansion

Biden signed a US "instrument of ratification" welcoming the two countries' accession to NATO, the latest step toward their approval by the United States.

"It was and is a watershed moment I believe in the alliance and for the greater security and stability not only of Europe and the United States but of the world," he said.

The US Senate supported the expansion by an overwhelming 95-1 vote last week.

Sweden and Finland applied to join NATO in response to the war in Ukraine.

Last month, 30 NATO allies signed a protocol for Sweden and Finland to join, allowing them to join the nuclear alliance after all member states ratify the decision.

The accession must be ratified by the parliaments of all 30 members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization before Finland and Sweden can be protected by Article 5, which implies that an attack on one ally is an attack on all.
By Shi Wei

The speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi left Taiwan after her one-day trip, but the aftermaths of her visit have just begun to show.

What has Pelosi's visit brought to the Taiwan Strait? What tangible benefits can it bring to Taiwan other than the serious consequences listed by the Chinese Foreign Ministry? The external affairs officials from the Taiwan Island claimed that Pelosi's visit has captured close international attention and sent the world a strong signal that "Taiwan is a democratic partner of the US", but "at what price"?  to quote what the western media always say to smear China. Did anyone of the DPP authorities explain the price to the Taiwan people? Can they accept it?

The minute Pelosi left the island, the PLA launched important military exercises and training activities around the Taiwan Island. Military experts pointed out four "firsts" about the exercises  closest to the island, besieging the island, setting a shooting range on the eastern side of the Taiwan Island, and firing missiles across the island  all for the first time. The Chinese mainland has also rolled out a series of countermeasures against "Taiwan independence", every one of them hitting hard on the "Taiwan independence" separatists and anti-China forces.

The Chinese people are resilient and tenacious. The US government has not stopped China's development with its long years of blockade and suppression but has instead seen China grow into the world's second-largest economy with ever stronger overall national strengths. During the latest confrontation, regardless of the provocations by some politicians, they cannot change the fact that China is on the rise and the US is on the decline, much less can they do anything about the final reunification of China.

When asked for comment on Pelosi's Taiwan visit, the Foreign Ministry's spokesperson Hua Chunying quoted an ancient Chinese saying  "A man's troubles lie in reading too little about history". There is an example not that long ago. Ten years ago, the Japanese right-wingers manipulated the so-called "nationalization of Diaoyu Island"; ten years later, they can only watch Chinese Coast Guard ships patrolling the waters within 12 nautical miles of the island. In 2016, international anti-China forces staged the "South China Sea Arbitration" farce, which China neither recognized nor participated in; now the South China Sea, thanks to China and relevant parties consistent efforts, has become a sea of peace and cooperation.

The PLA's exercises are deterring the anti-China forces and Taiwan independence separatists. Pelosis provocative visit to Chinas Taiwan region has done nothing but further squeeze the space for Taiwan independence. China must be and will be reunified. All anti-China forces and Taiwan independence separatists will pay a huge price for Pelosis visit. The show has just begun.

Editor's note: This article is originally published on taiwan.cn, and is translated from Chinese into English and edited by the China Military Online. The information, ideas or opinions appearing in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of eng.chinamil.com.cn.
Britain issues heat warning as Europe swelters

Tourists walk across a parched stretch of grass in Parliament Square outside the Houses of Parliament in London. Photo: AP

The UK's meteorological agency on Tuesday issued an "amber" warning for extreme heat while the country's biggest water provider said restrictions loom, as Britain braces for another punishing heatwave later this week.



The warning by the Met Office, covering much of southern England and parts of eastern Wales from Thursday through Sunday, predicts possible impacts to health, transport and infrastructure from the heat.



Temperatures are set to soar to the mid-30s Celsius for several days, it noted.



The sweltering conditions come just weeks after the last heatwave pushed the mercury over 40 degrees Celsius for the first time in Britain.



Climate scientists overwhelmingly agree that carbon emissions from humans burning fossil fuels are heating the planet, raising the risk and severity of droughts, heatwaves, and other extreme weather events.



"Thanks to persistent high pressure over the UK, temperatures will be rising day-on-day through this week and an extreme heat warning has been issued," Met Office deputy chief meteorologist Dan Rudman said in a statement.



Months of exceptionally dry weather across England are taking their toll, with Thames Water  which supplies London and its surroundings  the latest water provider to warn of imminent restrictions.



The firm said it is planning to issue a so-called hosepipe ban in the coming weeks "given the long-term forecast" of hot and dry weather for the southeast.



Several other UK water suppliers have already announced similar moves ahead of this week's heatwave, but Thames Water's 15 million customers would make it the most impactful so far.



The parched conditions have seen wildfires break out near houses, including on the outskirts of London, a relatively rare occurrence in Britain.



In neighbouring France, a "historic" drought currently exacerbated by a third extreme heatwave this summer has seen a spate of wildfires nationwide as well as water restrictions ordered in nearly all its 96 mainland departments. (AFP)
Despite pressure from Beijing, Sri Lanka is continuing to defer the arrival of controversial Chinese vessel 'Yuang Wang' 5 to its southern port run by China. On Saturday, following concerns raised by India, Sri Lanka urged China to indefinitely delay the entry for the tracking and survey vessel to the south Indian Ocean island nation. In a letter written to the Chinese Embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka's Foreign Ministry said: "The Ministry wishes to request that the arrival date of the vessel Yuan Wang 5 in Hambantota to be deferred until further consultation are made on this matter." On Monday, the Foreign Ministry stated: "In light of the need for further consultations, the Ministry has communicated to the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Colombo to defer the visit of the said vessel to the Hambantota port." It said that diplomatic clearance for the Chinese vessel to make a port call at the Hambantota August 11-17 for replenishment purposes was conveyed by the Ministry to the Chinese Embassy on July 12. However, the Foreign Ministry also reaffirmed the enduring friendship and excellent relations between Sri Lanka and China and referred to Sri Lanka's firm commitment to the one-China policy which has been a consistent principle in the country's foreign policy. Beijing raised strong protest against the Indian move. China's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Wang Wenbin told reporters on Monday that it "is completely unjustified for certain countries to cite the so-called 'security concerns' to pressure Sri Lanka". "We urge the relevant parties to see China's marine scientific research activities in a rational light and stop disrupting normal exchange and cooperation between China and Sri Lanka," Wang, who didn't mention the name of India, stated. "Sri Lanka is a sovereign country. It has the right to develop relations with other countries based on its development interests. To have normal cooperation is the independent choice made by our two countries. It serves the shared interests of both sides and does not target any third party." Soon after Sri Lanka announced that the Chinese ship has been asked not to enter its port, Chinese diplomats had rushed to meet President Ranil Wickremesinghe. --IANS sfl/vd ( 378 Words) 2022-08-08-23:04:01 (IANS)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Monday it has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs 2.51 lakh on the Goa State Co-operative Bank Ltd, Panaji, for non-compliance with certain provisions of the Banking Regulation Act. The RBI issued an order in this regard on August 1, 2022. The Cooperative Bank has been penalised for non-compliance with section 9 read with section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 (the Act), the RBI said. "This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers," the central bank said in a statement. A request made by the bank to RBI for granting an extension of time for disposing off non-banking asset and examination of all related correspondence revealed, inter alia, non-compliance by the bank with section 9 read with section 56 of the Act to the extent that the bank failed to dispose off the non-banking asset within the statutory timeline from the date of its acquisition. In furtherance to the same, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for contravention of the aforesaid provisions of the Act. After considering the bank's reply to the notice, the additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI came to the conclusion that the charge of non-compliance with section 9 read with section 56 of the Act was substantiated and warranted imposition of monetary penalty, to the extent of non-compliance with the provisions of the Act, the RBI said. (ANI)
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) disposed of 6,172 complaints and grievances out of 6,231 received against service providers under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), Union Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Rao Inderjit Singh said on Monday. In a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha, Singh said the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Grievance and Complaint Handling Procedure) Regulations, 2017 enables stakeholders to file a grievance or a complaint against service providers under the IBC. The Board also receives complaints and grievances from Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAM), Prime Minister's Office, MCA and other authorities. Till July 31, 2022, the IBBI had received 6,231 such complaints and grievances, of which 6,172 have been disposed of after examination, the minister informed the parliament. Singh said the Ministry of Corporate Affairs does not have any role in corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP) of a corporate debtor (CD) under the provisions of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (the Code). CD undergoing CIRP is resolved through a resolution plan formulated by resolution applicants based on the market-driven process. The Minister further stated that the Committee of Creditors (CoC) within its commercial wisdom assesses the feasibility and viability of the resolution plan submitted by the proposed resolution applicant which is then approved by the Adjudicating Authority (AA). Further, the realisation by creditors through CIRP under the Code is dependent on quality assets at the time of its resolution, the Minister stated. Giving more details, the Minister stated that no such investigation has been initiated as section 29A of the Code enlists certain categories of undesirable persons which include related parties ineligible to submit a resolution plan during the CIRP. Regulation 36A(8) of IBBI (Insolvency Resolution Process for Corporate Persons) Regulations, 2016 imposes a duty on Resolution Professional (RP) to conduct due diligence to satisfy themselves that the prospective resolution applicant is not ineligible under section 29A of the Code. The resolution plan approved by the CoC, within its commercial wisdom is then approved by AA under section 31 of the Code thereby ensuring that any undesirable persons under section 29A are unable to take over the CD. Likewise, during liquidation proceedings of CD, the proviso to Section 35(1)(f) bars a liquidator from selling immovable and movable property to any person who is ineligible to be a resolution applicant. Further, the Minister stated that as per information available, the Directorate of Enforcement has received one complaint against an RP of one CIRP in which appropriate action under applicable law has been taken. Further, CBI has received one complaint regarding abuse of process in one CIRP matter which was forwarded to the Regulator and on examination, the Regulator has not found any actionable material. (ANI)
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], August 9 (ANI/PRNewswire): Woxsen University announces the establishment of 41 Fellowships/ Chair Professorships honouring professional contributions of some of the world's most reputed experts in education. It is one of the highest honours awarded in the academic domain at Woxsen, reserved for the faculty who have demonstrated a sustained high level of scholarly accomplishment in their respective field of study. The title of Chair Professorship is a recognition of their contributions towards research, teaching and advancement of the University. These will serve as tribute to the international personalities they are named after, and demonstrably enriches the quality of educational opportunities of students and faculty associated with the chair, on a global level. Woxsen has always emphasized on internationalization of education and currently counts 92+ partner universities, 90+ Adjunct Professors originating from some of the world's top varsities, 20+ Clinical & Professor of Practice among others. To complement the international exposure of all stakeholders and exchange programs, monthly sessions are organised on various areas of interests such as Woxsen Global Forum, Woxsen International Lecture Series, and corporate alignment sessions with top executives on campus. Apart from this, Woxsen has reserved two annual segments for module-based session series between September-November and March-May, called 'International Month', which serves as non-credit certification courses and stackable micro-credits. A revision of activities, progress and course of action is conducted by the International Advisory Board consisting of Heads of Departments & Alumni of Leading Universities with Global FT Ranking and Triple Crown, Representatives of International Accreditation Bodies and Woxsen University Alumni. To further facilitate cooperation with reputed universities across the globe for collaborative research programs, Woxsen has now introduced Chair Professorships. The chair holders have been selected basis their core areas of specializations and contributions and are expected to continue providing outstanding scholarly insights to the holder's department, profession and society at large. Responsibilities of the Chair Professorships include: Maintaining an extraordinary level of productivity in publicized research and executing a high impact research agenda Fostering collaborations for multi-investor programs and multi-disciplinary laboratories Developing innovative educational programs and curricula To teach at an exemplary level of effectiveness to graduate students and undergraduates To be leaders in their field, build significant programs, mentor junior faculty, and provide strategic leadership to their department and college The Chair Professorships, Woxsen University: Dr Carlos Scheel-Mayerbenger EGADE Business School, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Mexico Dr Jean-Luc Boulnois Babson College Dr Ingmar Nolte Lancaster University Dr Sir Cary Cooper University of Manchester Prof Margaret Bishop Parsons School of Design Dr Dominique Turpin IMD Switzerland Dr Zita Paprika Corvinus University Dr J.C. Hauguel ISC Paris Dr David J Reibstein Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania Dr James Stoner Fordham University, Gabelli School of Business Dr Hamid Bouchikhi ESSEC Business School Dr Prasad Padmanabhan St. Mary's University Dr Len Jessup Claremont Graduate University Dr Steven Pinker Harvard University Dr Dinesh Bhatia UT Dallas, USA Dr Sanjay Bhowmick Northumbria University, UK Dr Thami Ghorfi ESCA Morocco Dr Amitava Chattopadhay INSEAD Dr Hirshleifer, David USC Marshall Dr Gunther Friedl TUM, Germany Dr Ben Shenglin Zhejiang University Dr Mohanbir S Sawhney Kellogg School of Management Dr Bjorn Espen Eckbo Tuck School of Business, Darmouth College Dr Vijay Govindarajan Tuck School of Business, Darmouth College Dr Ramon O'Callaghan Porto Business School Dr Anuj Mehrotra George Washington University School of Business Dr Sherif Kamel American University in Cairo Dr Valarie Zeithaml UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School Woxsen University, located in Hyderabad, is one of the first private universities of the state of Telangana, India. Renowned for its 200-acre state-of-the-art campus and infrastructure, Woxsen University offers new-age, disruptive programs in the fields of Business, Technology, Arts & Design, Architecture, Liberal Arts & Humanities. With 90+ Global Partner Universities and Strong Industry Connect, Woxsen is reckoned as one of the top universities for Academic Excellence and Global Edge. Woxsen is Ranked #13, All India Top 150 B-Schools by Times B-School Ranking 2022, Rank #16, All India Top Pvt. B-School, BusinessWorld 2021 and features in India's Best B-Schools beyond IIMs by Dalal Street Investment Journal. This story is provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PRNewswire)
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], August 9 (ANI/NewsVoir): Chennai-based The Lip Balm Company has launched a lip balm which is a modern take on the traditionally scealluringnt of Jasmine flowers. The lip balm is for both men and women and has been launched to celebrate India's 75 years of Independence. Jasmine has always found its place in our tradition since time immemorial. Jasmine flowers are well known for their fragrance and have caused many a heart to flutter. Many women generally wear Jasmine flowers every day, especially in the evenings, as it creates a positive vibe due to its heavenly fragrance. Incidentally, the Jasmine grown in Madurai, Tamil Nadu has a GI tag and is exported to many countries. Keeping the heritage and tradition of Tamil Nadu in mind, The Lip Balm Company created this unique lip balm that promises to provide a sensorial feast to the lips. Dubbed as the Date Night Lip Balm, this jasmine-flavoured lip balm comes under three ranges - "Levitate" to symbolize the mood-elevating feel of jasmine, "Edhazh" to denote the pure and original, completely organic jasmine butter that forms the main ingredient of the lip balm, and "Lip Bomb Bombs", to depict the plumping qualities of this lip balm. The scent gets activated by blending or massaging the product on the lips to provide an elegant note of jasmine aroma. "We discovered these fragrances after much research and understanding of Jasmine. We felt the launch should happen on our Independence Day as it symbolizes a fresh beginning," said Revanth P.G., Plant Biologist, Research and Development, The Lip Balm Company. The Jasmine lip balm comes in an attractive 5 g and 10 g. "Once again, keeping in mind the launch date and what this represents, we decided to package this in a vintage-looking jasmine printed wooden box. This box is sure to be treasured even after the lip balm has been all used up," Revanth quipped. The variants are priced at Rs. 555 for the 5 g and Rs 999 for the 10 g. It is sold in the CHOSEN Store in Chennai, and one can check out the link thelipbalmco.in/collections/levitate-lipbalm/products/jasmine-lip-balm The Lip Balm Company is all about opening the door to lip heaven. It is your guidewire to happy lips ever after. The Lip Balm Company is all about safety, efficacy and, of course, luxurious elegance - all of which are in the DNA of a TLBC lip balm! By infusing the lip balms with plant goodness and flavours, the lip balms would go from healers to enhancers, brighteners, lip lifters and mood elevators. The Lip Balm Company has sworn a promise to make only the best of the lip balms and lip balms from only the best of ingredients. We firmly believe that there is a lip balm for every pair of lips ever made and that it is our solemn duty to make a match between the two. Join us, travel with us, explore our offerings, and stop to smell the roses, oranges or apples - well, whatever delicious flavour that your lip balm carries. For, as we at The Lip Balm Company say, There's always time for Lip Balm! This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir)
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday urged all the cooperatives across the country to register themselves on the Government e-Market (GeM) portal, which he said is the best way to promote and expand them. Minister Shah made the remarks at the event of the e-launch of onboarding of cooperatives on the GeM portal, a first-ever initiative as so far GeM platform was not enabled for registration of cooperative societies as buyers on platform. Now, all eligible cooperatives across the country will be able to start placing orders on the GeM-- which is a one-stop procurement system for goods and services. The GeM has been set up as the national procurement portal to provide an end-to-end online marketplace for Central and state government departments and ministries as well as Public Sector Units (PSUs) for common-use goods and services in a transparent and efficient manner. Speaking on the importance of GeM and its benefit, the home minister said, "The 'Quit India Movement' jolted the British Empire on this day (August 9) when Mahatma Gandhi gave the slogan. India finally gained independence on 15th August 1947. As we celebrate 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav' this year, the doors to the GeM (portal) are being opened for cooperative societies." Shah also appealed all the Cooperatives to prepare themselves to register on the GeM portal. "Accept the GeM. There is no better way to promote a cooperative than the GeM." About 8.54 lakh cooperatives in India with about 29 crore members purchasing goods and services from the open market needed a platform to avail competitive prices through a transparent and efficient process. The members will benefit through the economical prices availed through GeM with access to sellers from all over the country. GeM is open for all government buyers, such as central ministries, state departments, public sector enterprises, autonomous bodies, panchayats and now Cooperatives. To date, approximately 61,851 government buyers and over 48.75 lakh sellers and service providers are registered on GeM and they have listed over 45 lakh products in over 10,000 product and 288 service categories. Over 1.08 crore orders worth Rs 2,78,504 crore have been fulfilled on the GeM platform. Mentioning that 289 of the 589 shortlisted cooperatives as eligible for onboarding have registered themselves on the GeM since this morning, Shah also appealed to all the Cooperatives to not only sell but also purchase on the GeM portal. He further ensured "now there will be no second class treatment with the cooperative sector", but clarified that "we will have to change to expand the cooperatives and promote them". Further, home minister Shah stressed the need to bring transparency in the purchase in the Cooperatives, saying "there is no better way to bring transparency in purchases than GeM", and said, "the world will see how transparency through GeM brings changes in next five years". The minister also said that around 25 to 30 initiatives have been taken by the cooperative ministry, pointing out the cooperative is limited to 32 sectors but the government has targeted to expand it to 80 sectors for which a database is being prepared. Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and President of the National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI) Dileep Sanghani were also present at the event organised by the Ministry of Cooperation, the NCUI and GeM. Recently, the Ministry of Cooperation in its advisory had made the NCUI the nodal agency to facilitate the onboarding of cooperatives, coordinating with GeM authorities and handholding the cooperatives in the process of onboarding. NCUI has compiled a list of cooperatives with turnover or deposits of Rs 100 crore and forwarded this information to GeM for starting the onboarding process. The Union Cabinet under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Modi approved on June 1 to expand the mandate for GeM to allow cooperatives to procure goods and services through GeM as buyers. Cooperatives will not only get competitive prices through an open and transparent process but can also procure from about 45 lakh authenticated sellers and service providers available across the country on a single platform. Besides, this portal will lead to saving of time and reduction of administrative costs for cooperatives. The onboarding of cooperative societies and banks will be done in a phased manner. In the first phase, cooperative societies and banks with turnover and deposits of more than Rs 100 crore as per the latest audited financial statement and with a grade auditing have been taken up for onboarding. (ANI)
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 9 (ANI/NewsVoir): Lemme Be, a new-age menstrual care brand, announces the launch of 'Z Drip Max', an eco-friendly and reusable leak-proof, reusable period underwear for all menstruators for Indian consumers, which is expected to save menstruators up to 6 months' worth of traditional pads/tampons. Z Drip Max can also be used during spotting, or while wearing pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. It can also be used while gymming or to avoid sweat patches. It is made up of sustainable cotton fiber and provides up to extended leakage protection with its super absorption capacity. Lemme Be's Z Drip Max is a smart, hygienic, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional period care, that is aimed at making menstruators' lives stress-free during periods. Z Drip Max's unique product features include: - The body is made up of sustainable cotton fiber and 5 per cent spandex for comfortable stretch.- Two layers in the middle are made of anti-pilling microfiber with wicking for extra absorption.- The final layer is made of 100 per cent breathable TPU to seal the drip.- Super absorbent with a fourfold 120ml capacity.- 6-8 hours of leakage protection.- Can deal with the heaviest flow, leaky bladder, sticky discharge, and sweat patches.- A lifespan of 6-8 months, depending on usage.- Eco-friendly and sustainable, since it is biodegradable. Launching the product for the Indian consumers, Devidutta Dash, the founder and CEO of Lemme Be, says, "That one week every month when menstruators get their periods can be quite a distressing time. From cramps to mood swings, from backache to exhaustion, nothing about periods screams a 'jolly good time', with period care products racking up a huge bill, both to the pocket and the environment. Keeping these issues in mind, Lemme Be introduces 'Z Drip Max' - Reusable Period Panty, to provide menstruators in India the ultimate holy grail for period woes." Lemme Be's current period care product range spans organic and premium-grade cotton sanitary napkins, panty liners and tampons, Z Cups (reusable menstrual cups), and Z Discs (reusable menstrual discs). All of Lemme Be's products are FDA-approved, comfortable, affordable, and sustainable. Lemme Be, a Hyderabad-based period brand founded in 2020 by Devidutta Dash, focuses on the variety and individuality of every product as per the needs of menstruators. The digital-first brand has curated a special range of products exclusively for teens and young adults which prioritizes care and comfort that is inclusive, eco-friendly & sustainable. Backed by the trust of marquee investors and aiming to initiate more positive dialogues about all menstruators in the society to educate, communicate and evolve, Lemme Be is rapidly scaling its physical presence with 14 unique SKUs and 58 total SKUs, and a mission of reaching the doorstep of every menstruator in the country. For more details, please visit www.lemmebe.com. 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], August 9 (ANI/NewsVoir): Indian School of Development Management (ISDM), a pioneering organisation that is creating and strengthening the domain of Development Management, welcomed its new batch of students for the class of 2022-2023 as part of its Post Graduate Program in Development Management (PGP DM). The institute hosted its orientation session for the newest cohort of students in Noida between August 1, 2022, and August 6, 2022. ISDM shortlisted some of the brightest minds following a rigorous selection process and now has a class comprising of freshers and professionals with some experience for the 11-month program. Highlights from Orientation - Students exposed to Social Entrepreneurship Experience facilitated by "Bridge4Change" and "Project Chakra" - Hands-on training to help the students realise social sector dilemmas for leaders- Students visited Chintan, a Delhi-based NGO on waste management to understand the operation and management of the organisation Beginning with a robust welcome session, ISDM hosted prominent personalities including Prof. L S Murty, Dean, ISDM, who comes with a glorious academic background as faculty at India's top management schools including IIM Bangalore and XLRI Jamshedpur, Gaurav Shah, Founder, ISDM, who comes with an experience of working in the private sector and the development space in key roles with P&G, and American Express, Ravi Sreedharan, the President of ISDM Management who has been part of the leadership team at HSBC and was exposed to the social sector as Head - Education Leadership and Management at a well-known India based social sector set-up, Vijay Mahajan, Co-founder and CEO at Rajiv Gandhi Foundation, and Prof. A K Shiva Kumar, Development Economist and Policy Advisor. Speaking at the orientation program, Ravi Sreedharan, the President of the Indian School of Development Management said, "The purpose of Development Management is to achieve impact at population scale in sustainable ways. We believe that you will go on to lead Social Purpose Organisations that will benefit wide sections of society. Remember that you will learn the most from the people least like you. In the coming, year and beyond, make a conscious effort to know, listen, share, and exchange with people who are the least like you." The certification program offered at ISDM is widely recognised by highly reputed Social Purpose Organisations (SPOs). ISDM's alumni work with some of the leading SPOs, research organisations, and think tanks across the country and internationally. Speaking at the session, Prof. L S Murthy, Dean of ISDM stated, "You have all decided to make a difference. ISDM will support you in every way possible in your journey ahead. The curriculum and pedagogy which you will experience here are unparalleled. Be open to receiving inputs and ideas from others even if they are at gross variance from yours. Mark where you diverge and even where you converge." Speaking at the event, Prof. A K Shiva Kumar, Development Economist, and Policy Advisor said, "Few NGOs or Social Purpose Organisations have been able to make an impact on scale. The need of the hour is to get the match right - between management and development. The ends of Development Management are more than enhancing managerial efficiency. Development Management needs to improve the quality of people's lives and enhance their security and freedoms." Established in 2016, ISDM leads the way in creating leadership to help catalyse the impact at scale for the social sector. ISDM is a research-led institution dedicated to building an entire ecosystem for Development Management. We are taking ahead pioneering work for creating knowledge, building capacity, and nurturing the talent development sector. ISDM is an institution founded to create, strengthen, and establish Development Management, a domain that transcends the exclusive silos of "development perspectives" and "management principles". ISDM recognises the need to "professionalise" the leading and managing of Social Purpose Organisations (SPOs). The institution sees the development space as requiring the application of management disciplines that are unique and tailored to the scale of the sector. Management that doesn't merely retrofit Business Management to development projects, but one that is born specifically from the coming together of the two crucial domains. This story is provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/NewsVoir)
The manufacturing industry is leading all other industries in cloud adoption, with 32 per cent of manufacturers having achieved "cloud leader" status, according to an industry report released by Wipro Limited. The report entitled, 'Redefining Manufacturing for The Digital Era', highlights that cloud-based technologies are the driving force behind the rapid business transformation in the European manufacturing industry. The report is published by Wipro FullStride Cloud. However, cloud adoption across European-based manufacturers has not been even, according to the report. Those who are in the early stages of cloud adoption (27 per cent), are lagging in moving products to market faster, making risk management more effective, and bolstering shareholder value. In fact, the report reveals that manufacturers that are cloud leaders receive almost double the payoff from their investments in cloud, achieving a return on investment of 42 per cent, compared with 24 per cent for beginners. "Shifts in the global economy are reshaping the manufacturing industry in Europe," said Srinivasaa HG, Europe Business Head of Integrated Digital Engineering & Application Services (iDEAS) at Wipro Limited. "The pandemic led to a massive uptake in adoption of cloud technologies. Now, as business leaders in Europe face an uncertain economic environment, they are tapping into the power of the cloud to quickly deploy advanced technologies to enhance resiliency across their operations and better manage future risks and supply chain shocks," Srinivasaa said in a statement. "Cloud is increasingly acting as the foundation for business, enabling manufacturers to use artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, data management warehousing and other emerging technologies. Going forward, cloud will be the bedrock upon which the sector will build the smart factory of the future," he added. The report shows that manufacturers who have adopted cloud expect the technology to expand into every single area of their business within two years. "This is no surprise given that cloud's benefits go beyond increasing competitiveness and productivity. Cloud-enabled businesses can drive increased revenue, enhance reputation, and better manage their carbon footprint. All of this will be incredibly important as we move into Industry 5.0 and create future-proof businesses," Srinivasaa said. Wipro surveyed 93 C-level executives and key decision-makers at manufacturers in four European countries: France, Germany, Switzerland, and the UK on how cloud is helping the industry prepare for the future. (ANI)
Filmmaker Advait Chandan, who has directed Aamir Khan's latest movie Laal Singh Chaddha, on Monday hit back at those claiming that paid trolls had been hired to create a controversy around the film. Aamir Khan-starrer 'Laal Singh Chaddha' has been embroiled in controversies ever since its trailer was released. After facing a boycott trend on Twitter, new reports surfaced online that alleged the trolls were "paid" to create buzz around the film. Reacting to such allegations, filmmaker Chandan took to Instagram and uploaded a note -- packing in a sharp sarcastic punch against those casting aspersions. "I am told there are people being paid to troll Aamir Sir. This is deeply upsetting to hear and it's outright unfair. Why have I been trolling him for free?" He added the hashtag #PayEveryTroll," Advait said taking a jibe. In 2015, Aamir Khan said in an interview, "Our country is very tolerant, but there are people who spread ill-will". His wife Kiran Rao also made headlines for saying that she considered leaving the country for the safety of their children. Reacting to the particular interview, Twitter users put up posts using hashtags such as #BoycottLaalSinghChaddha and #Boycottaamirkhan. The Trolls also dug up when Aamir met Turkey's First Lady Emine Erdogan while he was shooting for Laal Singh Chaddha there. Netizens were unhappy with the meeting as happened in the backdrop of Turkey's increasing anti-India and pro-Pakistan stand. The recent social media trends have got Aamir worried that he had to request people to watch his film."That Boycott Bollywood... Boycott Aamir Khan... Boycott Laal Singh Chaddha... I feel sad also because a lot of people who are saying this in their hearts believe I am someone who doesn't like India... In their hearts, they believe that... And that's quite untrue. I really love the country... That's how I am. It is rather unfortunate that some people feel that way. I want to assure everyone that it's not the case so please don't boycott my films, please watch my films," Aamir told Mumbai media recently. Aamir's 'Laal Singh Chaddha' is an official Hindi adaptation of the Academy Award-winning 1994 film 'Forrest Gump', which had Tom Hanks in the lead role. It is scheduled to release on August 11. Kareena Kapoor Khan and Mona Singh are also a part of the film. (ANI)
American filmmaker Kevin Smith, during the latest episode of his 'Hollywood Babble-On' show, spoke out against Warner Bros.' decision of axing 'Batgirl' while going ahead with 'The Flash' movie. According to Variety, Smith called it "an incredibly bad look" for the studio to drop the rare comic book tentpole to be headlined by a Latina actor, especially when they are still moving forward with the Ezra Miller-led tentpole 'The Flash'. "It's an incredibly bad look to cancel the Latina 'Batgirl' movie. I don't give a shit if the movie was absolute fucking dog shit - I guarantee you that it wasn't," Smith said. He added, "The two directors [Bilall Fallah and Adil El Arbi] who directed that movie did a couple of episodes of 'Ms. Marvel,' and it was a wonderful fucking show and they had more money to do 'Batgirl' than they had to do an episode of 'Ms. Marvel' and stuff." On August 2, Warner Bros. announced that despite 'Batgirl' being fully shot and in post-production they would not be releasing the USD 90 million film in theatres or on its HBO Max streamer. Executives from Warner Bros said the reason for shelving the movie was because it did not have a blockbuster scale for theatres (the film was originally conceived for HBO Max), but Variety reported that a tax write-off was also one of the driving forces behind the decision. The only way Warner Bros. can write the film off is if it does not get a release in any capacity, as per the outlet. Variety stated, that earlier reports claimed that 'Batgirl' test screenings were a disaster and that the film was "irredeemable," but Smith has a hard time buying into those rumours. The filmmaker said he doubts the film is "absolute fucking dog shit," and he noted that even if the movie did not look the greatest, well neither does the handful of DC series that air on The CW. Last week, during Warner Bros' Q2 earnings call, it was revealed that 'The Flash' is still set for its slated release amid the numerous controversies in recent months regarding Miller's alleged abusive behaviour. These allegations include choking an Icelandic woman in a bar and harassing another woman in her home in Berlin. He has also been arrested twice in Hawaii this year. As per Variety, commenting on this, Smith stated, "That is the baffling thing. I don't give a shit how bad the 'Batgirl' movie is, nobody in that movie is complicated or has anything in their real life you have to market around. In 'The Flash' movie, we all know there's a big problem! Flash is the Reverse-Flash in real life." (ANI)
There are films -- and then there are cult classics. Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap's magnum opus "Gangs of Wasseypur" which celebrated its 10th anniversary on Monday, belongs to the second category. The two-part gangster crime drama, which was initially shot as a single film of 321 minutes, not just turned the fortunes on their head for Kashyap, but also for everyone involved with the film. The film, spanning three generations beginning from pre-Independence India under colonial rule to modern-day India, tells the story of generational revenge, power struggles, politics and survival. Kashyap at once became the poster boy of the post-2000s parallel film movement in the country. The film also stands as Kashyap's biggest hit till date. It came as a big relief for him, as his earlier films either never saw the light of day ('Paanch'), or were banned ('Black Friday'), or were simply sleeper hits ('Gulaal'). The only exception was 'Dev D', which in a way helped the director generate the recall value for the Manoj Bajpayee and Nawazuddin Siddiqui-starrer 'Gangs of Wasseypur'. Other artistes, who benefited from the film and have gone on to rule the roost every since, include a string of now-celebrated talents. Nawazuddin, who earlier got small roles and struggled for nearly a decade, became an overnight star, courtesy of his powerhouse acting which was both realistic and robust to say the least. The success of 'Gangs of Wasseypur', clubbed with 'Kahaani' and 'Talaash: The Answer Lies Within', catapulted the actor to stardom. He went on to be featured in some of the biggest films of the 2010s, sharing the big screen with the likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir and Salman. Pankaj Tripathi, who essayed the role of the butcher Sultan with a penchant for gore, also acquired a massive fan following. A former NSD alumnus, just like Nawaz, Pankaj was struggling to find work before 'Gangs of Wasseypur'. Post his appearance in the film, he went on to star in some of the most loved films and web series, from 'Newton', 'Masaan', 'Dilwale' and 'Ludo' to 'Mirzapur' and 'Sacred Games'. Another actor who turned out to be a bankable name is Jaideep Ahlawat, who played Shahid Khan, Sardar Khan's father. A product of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Ahlawat had been referred to Kashyap by Manoj Bajpayee during the initial narration. Ahlawat followed his success in 'Gangs of Wasseypur' with 'Commando: A One Man Army', 'Gabbar Is Back', 'Raazi' and 'Paatal Lok'. Richa Chadha has been promised the role of Durga by Anurag Kashyap, but it went went to Reema Sen because nobody was ready to play Sardar's first wife, Nagma Khatoon, and it was Richa who saved the day for Kashyap as she did complete justice to the part. Many people will consider 'Shahid' to be Rajkummar Rao's claim to fame, but he had already made his presence felt with his powerful performance in 'Love Sex Aur Dhokha', followed by 'Gangs'. Rao played Shamshad, Faizal's (Nawazuddin) partner turned foe. The actor went on to star in acclaimed films such as Shahid' and Aligarh', forming an unbreakable bond with filmmaker Hansal Mehta, whose directorial Shahid' revived his career and gave him a new voice as a filmmaker. It's not just the cast of 'Gangs of Wasseypur' who benefitted from it. The film's first assistant director, Neeraj Ghaywan, took the leap of faith and brought laurels to the country with his directorial debut, 'Masaan', as it bagged two awards at the 68th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, including the Promising Future prize in the Un Certain Regard section. Post the success of 'Masaan', Ghaywan, who met his mentor Anurag Kashyap through the latter's now-defunct cinema blog, Passion for Cinema, has delivered projects such as 'Sacred Games 2' and 'Ajeeb Daastaans'. This story won't be complete without the mention of Vicky Kaushal, who was a third assistant director on the film. He had been referred to Anurag by his father, Sham Kaushal, who had choreographed the action in 'Gangs of Wasseypur'. Since then, Vicky has become a Bollywood sensation and heartthrob of Hindi cinema aficionados. The actor, who married Katrina Kaif last year, and has delivered hits such as 'Uri' and 'Sanju', even starred in 'Gangs of Wasseypur' as a silhouette in the brothel scene where Nagma Khatoon (Richa Chadha) comes looking for Sardar Khan (Manoj Bajpayee). 'Gangs of Wasseypur' is not just a film. For some, it is an emotion; for other, it is an experience. For its team, however, it has been a fertile ground that gave them the space for their talent to blossom and their stars to shine. --IANS aa/srb ( 790 Words) 2022-08-08-20:30:03 (IANS)
Hollywood star Amber Heard was spotted in Israel last week, dining at a Tel Aviv cafe with one of her staunchest supporters, journalist Eve Barlow, who was barred from testifying in the Johnny Depp defamation trial. According to Fox News, the 36-year-old actor was with Barlow on Aug. 1 sitting at a table outside, according to online reports.After Depp's attorneys discovered Barlow tweeting and texting from the front row, which is reserved for attorneys, in the Fairfax, Virginia courtroom in April, Barlow was expelled. As a result of Barlow disobeying a court order banning phone use, the "Pirates of the Caribbean" star's attorneys were successful in their motion to have Barlow permanently removed from the case. However, during the Fairfax County Circuit Court trial, Barlow continued to tweet unceasing messages of support for Heard outside of the courtroom. The former deputy editor of the revered music publication NME and a contributor to New York magazine have denounced Depp supporters as misogynists and abusers. Online, Barlow has been viciously attacked by Depp backers. Heard visited Halper's Books in Tel Aviv on August 2 while visiting the Holy Land, where she spent nearly an hour perusing the shelves with her infant daughter, Oonagh Paige Heard, according to the store's proprietor, J.C. Halper. Halper published a photograph of the "Aquaman" actress in the bookstore after she purchased his book "The Bibliomaniacs: Tales from a Tel Aviv Bookseller," which he also wrote. Johnny Depp is appealing part of the verdict in his defamation trial against ex-wife Amber Heard. "Now I will dip my big toe into the cesspool of Johnny vs. Amber squabble and lay out a couple of facts in Amber's favor," he wrote in a Facebook post. "She is a strong supporter of Israel, Jews and Israel's cause...And expresses it by wearing a gold Jewish star around her neck." He praised Heard's parenting and called her "modest, polite, friendly, inquisitive self-effacing customer with high literary tastes." Since her memorable court case, Heard has kept a low profile. On June 1, Depp obtained a $10.35 million judgement against her following a six-week, nationally televised trial that made the most private aspects of the feuding ex-lives couple's public. Heard was found guilty of defaming her ex-husband in a 2018 Washington Post op-ed in which she claimed to be a victim of domestic abuse by a jury of seven people. The panel also gave Heard $2 million in her countersuit after concluding that Depp had defamed her by calling her claims a "hoax" through his attorney. Both parties have stated that they will challenge the judgement. (ANI)
As per the Kolkata Police, Saibal injured himself in an inebriated condition. He was immediately rushed to the Chittaranjan Hospital.

Reportedly, prior to attempting suicide, Saibal took to his social media handle on Monday night to share a video (which has been retrieved now) where he allegedly blamed his wife and in-laws for his condition.

"I was forced to take it in my own hands. For this my wife, mother-in-law and...," he had reportedly said in the video.

News of Saibal's attempted suicide comes months after Bengali actors Pallavi Dey and Bidisha De Majumdar, and model-actor Manjusha Niyogi allegedly died by suicide. Pallavi Dey was found dead at her house in Kolkata's Garfa. According to police, Pallavi (25) was found hanging from a ceiling fan with the help of a bed sheet inside an apartment on the 2nd floor of a multi-storied residential building. (ANI)
The boy's parents lodged a complaint with Nallakunta police station that the blood bank transferred HIV-infected blood to him.

The child from Rampally village in Ranga Reddy district had been undergoing blood transfusions for the past 2.5 years at the Red Cross blood bank located in Adikmet.

He tested HIV positive when the treating doctor suggested a blood test following the blood transfusion on July 20.

The child's parents sought a detailed inquiry into the blood bank's negligence. The police have written to the Medical Board seeking its opinion and asked the blood bank management to submit the patient's records.

The child is said to be suffering from thalassemia since the age of seven months. The family used to approach the blood bank for blood transfusion every fortnight.

His parents told police that they have been visiting the blood bank regularly for blood transfusion and every two months the HIV test was done. So far, the result was never positive.

However, the doctors at the blood bank reportedly told police that on a few instances, the family had taken the child to other hospitals for blood transfusion. They also claimed that before collecting the blood from donors, they do several tests to ensure the blood donated is not infected.

--IANS ms/vd

( 249 Words)

2022-08-08-23:08:04 (IANS)
The ASI has been identified as Dinakanta Sonowal, 50.

Through he was rushed to a nearby hospital, his life could not be saved.

Doctors said Sonowal sustained injuries on the head.

"He was given CPR and also put on a ventilator but he could not survive. Brain matter was oozing due to the bullet wound," a doctor said.

He shot himself from point-blank range, according to the doctors. The body was sent for post-mortem.

Sonowal was posted in the Traffic department. The incident took place in Tinsukia Sadar police station.

A senior police officer said that the exact reason behind his act is yet to be known.

An inquiry committee to look into this matter will be set up soon. Sonowal has left behind his wife and two children.

--IANS tanuj/pgh

( 158 Words)

2022-08-08-19:42:03 (IANS)
Finally, the much-delayed and anticipated cabinet expansion of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis government is expected to take place on Tuesday morning, official sources said here on Monday. Shinde also gave hints to the effect in Nanded where he is on a tour on Monday, saying that "you will come to know soon" and that the names of the ministers shall be finalised by Monday night or Tuesday. The Shinde group MLAs will be meeting later on Monday after messages were conveyed to various probables on his side and ally Bharatiya Janata Party to reach the state capital immediately. According to current indications, around half a dozen ministers from the Shinde group and the BJP are slated to take oath on Tuesday in the first phase, and the rest will be inducted later. Political sources said that nearly half the legislators of Shinde Group-BJP - totaling around 165, including independents and smaller parties - are clamouring for ministerial berths, with a majority of them hoping for Cabinet rank. The move comes ahead of the Monsoon Session of Maharashtra Legislature which is expected to start from Wednesday, though there were some reports of a week's delay. The Maharashtra Legislature Secretariat has cancelled all leaves of staffers from August 9-18, directing them to remain present in office for the monsoon session preparations. Shinde and Fadnavis took oath on June 30 - a day after the erstwhile Maha Vikas Aghadi regime headed by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray crashed - and since then, they have been running a two-man government for the past 40 days. Thackeray, his son Aditya Thackeray, party MP Arvind Sawant and other MVA leaders have taken potshots at the proposed cabinet expansion on Tuesday. Shinde and Fadnavis had a meeting on the issue Monday - a couple of days after they had gone to New Delhi to meet the BJP top leaders - to finalise the thorny cabinet expansion issue, with many senior leaders on both sides staking a claim for ministerial positions. The Shinde-Fadnavis regime has been under severe attack from the Leader of Opposition Ajit Pawar, the Nationalist Congress Party, Congress and Shiv Sena leaders for the delay in forming the cabinet due to which the state administration has been left paralysed, with no help reaching the farmers and people hit by the recent floods in several parts of the state. --IANS qn/vd ( 411 Words) 2022-08-08-20:02:02 (IANS)
" Carry out the campaign with passion and respect for the country. the event should be celebrated in a meaningful way.It is intended to hoist the flags on more than 1 crore homes in the State," said Bommai.

Chief Minister Basavaraja Bommai directed officials to make the 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign organized to mark the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav a success.

The distribution of flags is already underway. CM Bommai also instructed officials to hoist the flags on August 13 to create a festive mood to commemorate Amrit Mahotsav.

As per the guidelines of the Union Government flags should be hoisted on Government offices on these three days every morning and must be lowered in the evenings.

At homes, flags should be hoisted starting August 13 and can be kept until August 15.

The Chief Minister directed the Chief Secretary to conduct another round of meeting with the district administration.

He also said, "To commemorate Quit India Movement, freedom fighters must be felicitated at their homes in the respective districts between 9th to 14th August. District-in-Charge ministers should also be a part of this."

Ministers Govind Karjol, V.Sommanna, C.C.Patil. B.C.Patil, Araga Jnanendra, Anand Singh, Narayan Gowda, Sunil Kumar, Vandita Sharma, Chief Secretary, Rajaneesh Goyal, ACS, N.Manjula, Secretary Kannada and Culture, Deputy Commissioners, ZP CEOs participated in the meeting. (ANI)
With the 5G spectrum auction concluding recently, Telecom inventor-entrepreneur Sam Pitroda complimented Minister for Communications, Electronics and IT Ashwini Vaishnaw and said that the 5G will open new horizons in different fields. Taking to Twitter he extended his greetings and said, "My compliments to @AshwiniVaishnaw, Minister for Communications, Electronics & IT, Telecom Commission, @DoT_India, @TRAI, @CDOT_India, Telecom Engineers, Entrepreneurs, #Startups, Operators, and others for a successful auction of the #5GSpectrum and associated opportunities. 5G." He further highlighted that the new spectrum will not only provide substantial-high speed and low latency but will open a new horizon for new use cases. "The #5G will not only provide substantial-high speed and low latency but will open a new horizon for new use cases in agriculture, business and finance. Education, health, export, energy and governance will improve productivity, efficiency, affordability scalability and sustainability," he added in another tweet. His statements came in wake of the recently concluded 5G auctions which were marked complete after 40 rounds and 7 straight days on August 1, fetching over Rs 1.50 trillion, higher than the government's expectations. Calling it a massive victory for the Indian Telecom community, Pitroda also highlighted that Indian talent was used to build different aspects for the project. "In particular, my special compliments for developing 5G related technologies (including C band for tower interconnectivity) and equipment in India, using Indian talent and mfg. resources to produce 5G hardware and Software in India for the Indian and global market," he added. He also stressed that the nation took a huge step forward and deserves global recognition, respect and rewards for 5G and in a tweet said, "For India to have Indian designed and developed #5G is a huge step forward and deserves global recognition, respect and rewards. Done right, it will create a considerable export potential for Indian Telecom Industry." Leading telecom operators Reliance Jio Infocomm (Jio) and Bharti Airtel (Airtel) emerged as the top bidders at the recently concluded spectrum auction. Reliance Jio, Adani group, Bharti Airtel, and Vodafone Idea were the four major participants in the spectrum auction. Allocation of spectrums to the telecom operators is expected before August 15, and the initial 5G services in the country will start subsequently in several Indian cities. "By the end of this year, we are likely to see indigenously developed, and manufactured 5G stack, getting deployed, in rolling out 5G network in India. Our engineers have developed, a set of 5G standards, which will facilitate the spread of 5G network in rural areas," said Union Minister of State for Communications Devusinh Chauhan. 5G is the fifth-generation mobile network capable of transmitting a large set of data at a very rapid speed. In comparison to 3G and 4G, 5G has a very low latency which will enhance user experiences in various sectors. Low latency describes the efficiency to process a very high volume of data messages with a minimal delay. 5G services are expected to be about 10 times faster than 4G. The 5G rollout is also expected to bring more development in remote data monitoring in sectors such as mining, warehousing, telemedicine, and manufacturing. (ANI)
Nair was 97 and was suffering from age-related issues for a while.

In 1943, Nair took part in the first ever Congress of the Communist party that was held in then Bombay.

Berlin was added to his name after he was asked by the party to reach Germany in 1961 after the German Democratic Republic government of East Germany built the Berlin Wall to stop the exodus of people from the region to divided West Germany.

And after long years in Germany, where he worked as a journalist, Nair returned to Kerala and shot into further prominence when he sided with V.S. Achuthanandan, which irked Pinarayi Vijayan who was the longest serving state party secretary here from 1998 to 2015.

There were times when the tiff between Achuthanandan and Vijayan reached a high, and Nair took a strong stand against Vijayan.

However, a few years back after Vijayan's stock rose high both in the party and in the government, Nair tried to build bridges with hi, by even applauding him for the way he has been leading the Kerala government.

--IANS sg/arm

( 216 Words)

2022-08-08-22:32:03 (IANS)
A 23-year-old woman, who was deployed as a marshal in a Delhi Transport Corporation bus, has alleged "extreme mental torture" by her colleagues after she turned down a colleague's sexual advances. Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chairperson Swati Maliwal said that the Commission has received a complaint from the woman in which she stated that she was deployed as a Bus Marshal in DTC bus service on May 20. "She has alleged that after a few days, one of her colleagues started forcing her for sexual favours and also took Rs 25,000 for her transfer from a depot. She stated that she complained against him to higher officials of the depot, but no action was taken," the DCW chairperson mentioned in a notice to the Delhi Police and Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). The woman further alleged that thereafter, the depot manager and other staff including some bus driver and conductor started harassing her. "She approached Delhi Police and a complaint was registered at Keshavpuram police station, however, the depot manager and other staff forced her to compromise in the matter. She has alleged that the accused persons also gave her death threats," Maliwal said. On July 20, the depot manager terminated her from her duty after which she approached the concerned SDM, who after reading her complaints sent her to join the depot again. "However, the depot manager and other staff refused to let her join and asked her to take back her complaints," the DCW chief said. The woman, in her complaint to the DCW, stated that she also approached the Keshavpuram police station but no FIR was registered. "At last she tried to attempt suicide and is currently admitted at hospital," Maliwal said. Confirming the case, a senior Delhi Police officer said a PCR call was received at Keshavpuram police station on July 15 in which a woman caller mentioned about abuse and physical assault by her colleague at Netaji Subhash Place Bus Depot. "The police immediately reached the spot and found the complainant woman who alleged that her colleague, identified as Sachin Kaushik, a home guard, abused and physically assaulted her," Deputy Commissioner of Police (northwest) Usha Rangnani said. The DCP said that Kaushik was brought to the police station for questioning. The woman told the police that she had an argument with Sachin Kaushik, over placement of their duties, and during the argument Kaushik abused her and pushed her away. "The complainant, however, compromised the matter with the accused on her own and gave her handwritten statement to the Investigation Officer that she does not want any legal action against the accused as he has apologised and that she has suffered no injuries," DCP Rangnani said. The senior official said that they did not receive any call about the woman taking extreme steps. "The Investigation Officer (IO) is trying to contact the victim and further legal action will be taken accordingly based on her statement," the official said. --IANS uj/pgh ( 508 Words) 2022-08-08-22:56:03 (IANS)
Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Monday inaugurated the 'Swatantra Bharatha Vajrotsava Dwi Sapthaham', the two-week long Independence Day celebrations. The state government is organising these celebrations as part of the nation-wide celebrations to mark 75 years of India's independence. The Chief Minister hoisted the national flag at the Hyderabad International Convention Centre (HICC) to formally launch the two-week long celebrations. He paid tributes to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Cultural programmes were part of the colourful inaugural ceremony. As part of the celebrations, the government has decided to distribute 1.2 crore flags to hoist the national flag on every house across the state. The closing ceremony of the celebrations will be held at the LB Stadium in Hyderabad on August 22. In his speech, the Chief Minister said India got independence with many sacrifices and struggles. He termed Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India's independence and the messenger of peace who proposed the doctrine of non-violence to the world, a universal man and inspiration to many people in the world. He noted that Barack Obama had also stated that he became the President of the United States with inspiration from Gandhiji. He decried the attempts made by certain forces to malign Mahatma Gandhi. "Mahatma remains Mahatma," he remarked. KCR, as the leader is popularly known, said after India gained independence, many personalities worked hard to keep the country united. He pointed out that states like Jammu and Kashmir, Jonagadh and Hyderabad subsequently acceded to India and after many efforts, Puducherry, Goa, and Sikkim became part of the country. He said India can achieve development with the elimination of poverty. "As long as there is poverty, there will be conflict and turmoil. Every citizen should feel that this is my country," he said. The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) leader also called for rejecting those elements trying to create a divide among people and spread disharmony in the country. He stressed the need for unity to take the country forward on the path of progress. He said Swatantra Bharatha Vajrotsavam celebrations are being organised to inform the new generations about the spirit of India's independence struggle. He called for educating the new generation about India's freedom struggle. He also urged the people's representatives to organise the celebrations in a grand manner. --IANS ms/vd ( 398 Words) 2022-08-08-23:16:02 (IANS)
The Delhi High Court on Monday issued a notice to the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Delhi Police on a petition regarding the damage that occurred to a tree in the Rohini area during road construction. Seeking response of the authorities, including the PWD engineer-in-chief, executive engineers, the secretary and deputy commissioner of police, the station house officer, and the tree officer, justice Najmi Waziri issued the notice on a contempt petition filed by New Delhi Nature Society. The bench checked the photos submitted by the petitioner and noted the concrete on the roots of a tree. The court came heavily on the officials on the matter, pointing out similar petitions. Notably, the same bench had earlier expressed concerns over tree felling and destruction of greenery in the national capital, which is vulnerable to air pollution. Earlier in June, expressing its anguish over the damages to the green cover in the national capital during the recent thunderstorm, the bench held the officials accountable for the lack of care which led to concretisation around trees that weakened their roots and caused heavy damage. Justice Waziri also came down heavily on the authorities, saying the Public Works Department came and actually encroached up to the neck of these trees. In another hearing also, he had stressed the importance of the trees. "In this capital city with its ever-burgeoning population, the cacophony of voices and rampant commercialisation of every other street, robbing the residents of the familiar ambience of their residential neighbourhood, the ever-increasing motor-vehicular traffic, the choking air pollution and the ever-creeping concretisation, trees hold out as welcome and assuring living entities of hope, sanity, environmental redemption and even companionship. The more solitary the tree, the greater its significance," he had said. --IANS jw/arm ( 312 Words) 2022-08-08-23:24:03 (IANS)
Prasad was found hanging from a fan when police officials reached the spot.

The incident came to light when the Miyapur police during the morning hours of Monday, received information stating that a person committed suicide within Miyapur police station limits

"Immediately one team was dispatched to the spot and police found one person hanged himself to the ceiling fan in his residence. The reason for his suicide is not known yet, but he was staying in his penthouse for the past few days," said police.

The body was later shifted to a local hospital for

The dead body has been shifted to a local govt hospital for post-mortem examination (PME).

A case U/s 174 CrPC has been registered.

Further investigations are underway. (ANI)
Amid the ongoing monsoon session and adjournments in parliament, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Monday took a jibe at TMC leader Derek O'Brien after the latter accused the centre of turning parliament into a 'Gujarat Gymkhana'. Joshi also called out the TMC party for its "arrogance". "TMC leader @derekobrienmp should stop preaching about democratic values and the sanctity of institutions. The people of Bengal have elected BJP as the main opposition but TMC, in its arrogance, has denied BJP the post of PAC Chairman," tweeted Joshi. His remarks came after the TMC leader alleged that the parliament session was cut short. "THIS IS THE SEVENTH CONSECUTIVE TIME PARLIAMENT SESSION HAS BEEN CUT SHORT Stop mocking #Parliament We will fight for its sanctity and prevent PM Narendra Modi, Amit Shahfrom turning this great institution into the Gujarat Gymkhana," tweeted TMC leader Derek O'Brien. Raising a cross question Joshi added," Will @derekobrienmp care to address how many days had the West Bengal Assembly functioned? Or is the State functioning as a Mamata Gymkhana?." Five Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament in the monsoon session of Parliament which concluded on Monday ahead of schedule with the session seeing repeated adjournments on various issues due to opposition protests on a range of issues including price rise. The Lok Sabha passed seven bills and six legislations were introduced in the House. Four bills were passed in Rajya Sabha. The government withdrew the Data Protection Bill, 2019 and has decided to come up with comprehensive legislation. The two Houses were adjourned sine die on Monday, four days before the scheduled end of the session. In his valedictory remarks, outgoing Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu said more than 47 Hours were lost due to interruptions, "which is a sad reflection on the functioning of the Upper House of Parliament". The two Houses had 16 sittings over 22 days since the session commenced on July 18. The session saw the election of a new President and Vice President. The Lok Sabha met for 44 hours and twenty-nine minutes during the session. The Lok Sabha passed the Indian Antarctic Bill, 2022, the Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022, the National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021, the Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Bill, 2021, the Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2022, the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2022 and the New Delhi International Arbitration Centre (Amendment) Bill, 2022 The Rajya Sabha passed the Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Amendment Bill, 2022, the Indian Antarctic Bill, 2022, the National Anti-Doping Bill, 2021, the Family Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2022 and the Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2022 The opposition forced several adjournments in the House over its demand for an immediate debate on price rise and withdrawal of GST on some items of daily use. Congress also protested the ED searches in the National Herald case accusing the government of misusing central agencies. (ANI)
A police constable was brutally murdered in Nandyala, Andhra Pradesh, said officials on Monday. The deceased has been identified as constable Surendranath. Surendranath was posted in the Deputy superintendent of police (DSP) office. "Some Unidentified persons stabbed Surendranath to death, so he was taken to hospital. The reasons for Surendra's murder are to be ascertained. A case has been registered in the matter," said Circle Inspector (CI), Nandyal town PS, Shekar. Further investigations are underway. (ANI)
Delhi Police on Monday arrested three more people in the case of a viral video where a cop was seen being beaten by a mob inside the police station. All three accused are identified as Dinesh Kumar (38), Keshav (24), Pradeep (27). Police also took Advocate Satish Kumar on one more day remand. Satish is one of the accused and was arrested on Saturday. A viral video shows that a mob of 10-12 men surrounded police personnel and beat him up and at the same time, a lot of onlookers can be seen shooting pictures and videos on their phones.However, in the video, it was not clear why the cop was being assaulted. The cop can be seen seeking forgiveness, but the mob continued to assault him.Delhi Police said on the intervening night of July 30-31, a PCR call was received regarding a physical assault and breaking gold chain incident of a woman at Karkardooma under Anand Vihar police station. Police said the issue was between two parties Ajay and Anchal Bakshi.Delhi Police said Ajay was found in an intoxicated condition and was apprehended from the spot and then taken to Anand Vihar police station. Following this, a group of people including Ajay's brother Satish Choudary came to the police station and was trying to provoke police personnel on duty.According to Delhi Police, Head Constable Prakash was surrounded by a group of people and then assaulted. Police said some of the people from the group also made a video of the incident and circulated it among them later.Police did the medical examination of the injured police personnel immediately and were counselled.Deputy Commissioner of Police, Shahdara R Sathiya Sundaram said "Legal action under appropriate sections is registered against all the alleged persons. Teams are deputed to identify and apprehend all the accused persons."Further investigation of this matter is underway. (ANI)
The arrested accused have been identified as Vishal Devraj Singh, Jafar Usmani and Pawan Durijeja, the police said.

This came after the arrest of Mohd Salim Mohd Iqbal Qureshi aka Salim Fruit who is associated with gangster Chota Shakeel.

On Thursday, NIA arrested one Mohd Salim Mohd Iqbal Qureshi alias Salim Fruit, brother-in-law of gangster Dawood Ibrahim's close aide Chhota Shakeel, said the officials.

The arrest was made in a case relating to the activities of D Company. The case was filed suo moto on February 3 pertaining to terrorist or criminal activities.

"Salim Fruit, a close aide of D Company, played an active role in extorting huge amounts of money in the name of Chhota Shakeel via property dealings and dispute settlements for raising terror funds in furtherance of terrorist activities of D company," NIA said. (ANI)
Amid reports of an ongoing rift between Janata Dal-United (JD-U) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Bihar, MLAs and leaders of the Rashtriya Janata Dal arrived at the residence of Rabri Devi, wife of party chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in Patna on Tuesday. The meeting of the RJD convened by its leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, the son of Lalu Yadav also saw leaders of the CPI ML and Congress - part of Mahagathbandhan, the grand Opposition alliance in the state, according to Ajit Sharma, Congress Bihar legislature party leader The RJD leaders arriving for the meeting were asked to hand over their mobile phones ahead of the meeting. Rumours of a growing rift between the BJP-JDU) ie the NDA alliance in Bihar intensified after Kumar skipped a key meeting of the NITI Aayog, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday and JD(U) leader RCP Singh tendered his resignation from the party. Singh, once considered a close aide of Nitish Kumar had announced his exit from the party after being served a notice seeking an explanation on allegations of corruption. The RJD-led Opposition in the state has meanwhile said that it will welcome any re-alignment in Bihar's ruling coalition without the BJP. "For a long time the people of Bihar had been wanting the government with BJP to go and a people's government to be formed. The BJP which has captured the Parliament wanted to do the same in Bihar assembly but we will not let their intentions succeed. We will support the overthrow of the BJP from power," said Mahboob Alam, MLA of the CPI (ML) who arrived for the RJD meeting today. Bihar Congress chief Madan Mohan Jha said "There seems to be a situation of instability and in such a situation then definitely something will come out. The Central government has been using the central agencies. The situation has never been right for the past one year." The Vikassheel Insaan Party chief Mukesh Sahani had earlier said that the BJP is indulging in politics of finishing its own alliance partners in many states. "It tried to break the JD(U) but Kumar took action. Earlier too, it did politics through Chirag Paswan. It's better to take timely action," Sahani said. Separately, chief minister Nitish Kumar has also called a meeting at his official residence here of members of both houses of Parliament and the state legislature. JD(U) MLC Kumud Verma and party MP Sunil Kumar were seen arriving at the residence of Chief Minister. The RJD had emerged as the single-largest party in the 2020 Assembly elections in which the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 125 seats- BJP won 74 , the JD(U) bagged 43, the Vikassheel Insaan Party got 4 and Hindustan Awaam Party (Secular) bagged 4 seats. (ANI)
Kerala governor Arif Mohammed Khan is planning to initiate action against the Vice-Chancellor of Kannur University in the state in connection with the appointment of Priya Varghese, as an associate professor in the university, sources related to Raj Bhavan said. Priya Varghese is the wife of KK Ragesh, who is a Private Secretary of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The Governor sought an explanation from Vice-chancellor after the Save University campaign filed a complaint with him stating that the UGC rules were flouted during her appointment. The complaint said that she doesn't have the necessary years of teaching experience to be appointed for the post. Seeking an explanation into the matter, the governor has given 10-days time to the VC of the university. Meanwhile, the Government has extended the deputation period of Priya Varghese for one year. At present, she is working as deputy director of Kerala Basha Institute. Varghese was an assistant professor in Kerala Varma College in Thrissur and was working at Basha Institute on deputation as deputy director. Now, the government has extended her term in the said institute for one year. Earlier in 2021, a letter from Kerala Higher Education Minister R Bindu was out which recommended the reappointment of Dr Gopinath Ravindran (former VC of the university) as its Vice-Chancellor. In the letter dated November 22, 2021, to the Governor, she had recommended Dr Gopinath Ravindran may be allowed to continue for another term as Vice-Chancellor and to cancel the notification dated October 27 this year appointing a Search-cum-Selection committee for identifying the person to be appointed as Vice-Chancellor. In another letter dated November 22, 2021, the higher education minister mentioned that steps have been taken to withdraw the notification inviting applications to select a Vice Chancellor for Kannur University, after which Bindu welcomed the verdict of the Lokayukta to reappointment Ravindran as the university's vice-chancellor. The minister had said, "Lokayukta pronounced its verdict and it is very positive. All the allegations raised by the opposition leader proved baseless. I welcome the order." "For the last two months they have been attacking me on this issue and all those allegations proved to be baseless. I am not ready to pass any comment on the governor's activities regarding this. Because I wanted to have a cordial relationship with the governor. So I am not giving any comment on the statement made by the governor at present," she added. However, the High Court of Kerala as well as the Supreme Court of India dismissed a writ petition, holding that the impugned appointment violated no statutory provisions in the "reappointment" of the man concerned as the Vice-Chancellor. (ANI)
On Monday, India recorded 16,167 cases of COVID-19.

As per the Union Ministry, India's active caseload currently stands at 1,31,807 at the rate of 0.30 per cent.

The Ministry further informed that the COVID-19 death toll is now at 5,26,772.

Moreover, there were 16,412 new recoveries from Coronavirus in the last 24 hours taking the total recoveries to 4,35,16,071.

The daily positivity rate is at 3.50 per cent while the weekly positivity rate is at 4.69 per cent.

As many as 3,63,855 COVID-19 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours. Till date, the ministry informed that over 87.85 crore total tests have been conducted.

On the COVID-19 vaccination front, over 206.88 crore total vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

India has now administered over 100 million precaution doses of COVID-19 vaccines, the Union health ministry said on Friday.

In a tweet, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya informed and wrote, "This has been achieved by collective efforts. India has administered over 10 crores (100 million) precautionary doses. 10 crore people now have an extra layer of safety. Under PM Narendra Modi Ji's leadership, 'Covid vaccination Amrit Mahotsav' is going on in full swing to provide free precaution dose for all adults."

This comes after the government started providing free precautionary for all adults in the age group of 18-75 years at government COVID vaccination centres as part of the Central government's 75-day booster drive. (ANI)
The meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party over the rift in National Democratic Alliance concluded at the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Tarkishore Prasad in Patna on Tuesday. After the meeting, party leaders Bhikhubhai Dalsaniya, Renu Devi, Mangal Pandey, Nitin Navin, Amrendra Pratap Singh, and Samrat Chaudhary left Prasad''s house. BJP''s Core Committee meeting is now scheduled to be held today at the party office in Patna. The move came after the Bihar CM held a meeting of all JD(U) MPs and MLAs at his official residence here today, amid reports of a rift with ally BJP. A meeting of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) was also held today at the residence of Rabri Devi in Patna The meeting saw the participation of leaders of the CPI-ML and the Congress - part of the Opposition ''Mahagathbandhan'' alliance in the state. Rumours of a growing rift between the BJP-JDU ie the NDA alliance in Bihar intensified after Kumar skipped a key meeting of the NITI Aayog, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday and JD(U) leader RCP Singh tendered his resignation from the party. Singh, once considered a close aide of Nitish Kumar had announced his exit from the party after being served a notice seeking an explanation on allegations of corruption. The RJD-led Opposition in the state has said that it will welcome any re-alignment in Bihar''s ruling coalition without the BJP. Ahead of the RJD convened meeting today, Congress Bihar legislature party leader Ajit Sharma said: "If Nitish Kumar comes, we''ll welcome him. If he comes we will support him. A meeting of Mahagathbandhan is being held. We should take a decision to support (him) by considering Nitish Kumar as the CM but we''ll be able to tell you only after the meeting." Meanwhile, a mahagathbandhan meeting was also held at the residence of state Chief Minister Nitish Kumar at his residence, during which the party leaders, MLAs, MLCs, and the Rajya Sabha MP authorised the Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav to take a decision and asserted that they were with him, the sources confirmed. The Congress and Left parties have already assured their support to Yadav. In the JD(U) meeting today, all MLAs and MPs of the party supported CM Nitish Kumar''s decision and said that they were with him. They also asserted that they will continue to support Kumar in his decision. Chief Minister of Bihar and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar will be meeting the governor Phagu Chauhan at the Raj Bhavan at 4pm today, ahead of which Police personnel have been deployed outside the residence of Nitish Kumar in Patna. Party chief Lalu Prasad Yadav is also closely watching every movement amid the ongoing rift in the BJP-JDU alliance, but everything is being done by Tejashwi Yadav, said the RJD sources. (ANI)
Communist Party of India (CPIM) State Secretary Balakrishnan slammed State Governor R.N. Ravi for having a political discussion with superstar Rajinikanth in Raj Bhavan. Balakrishnan said that the governor should not act as a representative of a party. "Is this a Governor House or political office? It is hereby confirmed that the governor's office has been converted into a political hall in an unconstitutional manner," says Balakrishnan in a tweet. In another tweet, Balakrishnan said, "It is acceptable that Rajinikanth met and talked to the governor out of respect, but why did the Governor feel the need to talk about the politics that cannot be shared with media?" Condemning the act of the Governor, he further said, "This is against the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu. How long are we going to tolerate this behaviour of the governor who continues to act beyond the limits of his authority?" Notably, the superstar Rajinikanth met the Governor of Tamil Nadu, R.N.Ravi on Monday in the Raj Bhawan (Governor House). But after the meeting, when the Megastar was asked if he and Governor RN Ravi discussed anything about politics or the upcoming Parliamentary elections. In response, Rajinikanth shared that talked a lot about politics, but cannot divulge anything to the media. It was suspected that the superstar is planning to return to politics again, but he denied all the rumours even about starting his political party. In an interaction with media outside his residence, No," says Rajinikanth when asked if he plans to return to politics. He directly said "No." However, Rajnikanth also spilled beans about his upcoming movie 'Jailer'.He added by giving the details about the media, "he loves the spirituality and beliefs in Tamil Nadu. He promised he will do everything in his power for the benefits of the people of TN." (ANI)
A Delhi Court has granted bail to accused Pradeep Ramdanee, (one caught in a trap collecting money from Aditi Singh) in 200 crore money laundering case involving conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar. Additional Sessions Judge Praveen Singh in an order passed last week said that considering the circumstances and the period of incarceration, the bail application of the applicant Pradeep Ramdanee is allowed. Ramdanee is admitted to bail after furnishing a personal bond in the sum of Rs.1,00,000 with one surety of like amount, to the satisfaction of this court. According to the court, Enforcement Directorate said that the investigation of the crime is still in progress and the role of the accused may further emerge. However, merely because the ED hopes to find something against this accused, the applicant cannot be kept in custody. "Neither the basis of such hope is stated, nor it has been shown from any case diary that there is an investigation in the direction which further show the role of this accused," the court noted. Pradeep Ramdanee was represented by advocates Anant Malik, Rohan Yadav and Rashi Rampal in the case. Advocates Atul Tripathi and Mohammad Faraz, Special Public Prosecutors along with R. K. Shah, appeared for ED. According to Pradeep Ramdanee's bail plea, it was submitted that he had no knowledge about the alleged illegal activities of alleged kingpin Sukesh Chandrashekar or that his brother was involved in any illegal activity. In absence of such knowledge, the allegation against the applicant lacks essential elements of the crime. Prima facie no case of money laundering is made out against the applicant and the only allegation against him is of being a delivery person. Nothing incriminating has been recovered from or at the instance of the applicant. It is further submitted that all the evidence is in documentary form and thus, there is no apprehension of the applicant's tampering with the evidence or influencing the witnesses, as stated bail plea. Patiala House Court took cognizance of the Enforcement Directorate's Chargesheet in December 2021. The Chargesheet was filed by ED against eight accused naming conman Sukesh Chandrashekhar, Leena Maria Paul, Deepak Ramnani, Pradeep Ramnani, Kamlesh Kothari, Avtar Singh Kochhar and two others. The Enforcement Directorate (ED), a financial probe agency, had arrested several accused under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in the extortion racket which was being run from a Delhi jail. According to ED, during the investigation, searches were conducted at various places linked to Sukesh Chandrashekar and his associates. During the search, 16 high-end vehicles were seized under section 17 PMLA and these cars are either in the name of firms of Leena Paulose or in the name of third parties. It is further submitted that it has emerged that Sukesh knowingly created the structure for layering and transferring proceeds of crime and thus, actively participated in the process of money laundering. Sukesh and Leena Maria Paul along with several others accused were earlier arrested by Delhi Police. The police had also invoked the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) in the case. Delhi Police had alleged that Leena, Sukesh with others used Hawala routes, and created Shell companies to park the money earned from proceeds of crime. Delhi Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) had registered an FIR against Chandrasekhar for allegedly duping the spouses of former promoters of Ranbaxy, Shivinder Singh, and Malvinder Singh, of Rs 200 crore besides ongoing investigations against him in several cases across the country. (ANI)
Amidst speculations over the fate of Bihar''s NDA coalition government with the reported rift between Nitish Kumar-led Janta Dal-United (JD-U) and Bharatiya Janata Party, Union Minister Kaushal Kishor said that the BJP wants Kumar to continue as chief minister of the state. Meanwhile Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar on Tuesday arrived at Raj Bhavan on Tuesday to meet Governor Phagu Chauhan. Rumours of a growing rift between the BJP-JDU in the NDA alliance in Bihar intensified after Kumar skipped a key meeting of the NITI Aayog, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday and JD(U) leader RCP Singh tendered his resignation from the party. Singh, once considered a close aide of Nitish Kumar had announced his exit from the party after being served a notice seeking an explanation on allegations of corruption. BJP leaders however have dismissed any estrangement with the JD(U). "Certainly the government under the leadership of Nitish Kumar will run firmly with the BJP alliance. As far as I''m concerned and if there was such a thing, it would depend on the time and circumstances," Union Minister Kishor said. "I do not want to wish to comment over the political situations in Bihar, but there is no such attempt from the BJP which would have raised any dispute or confusion. JDU will take its call as per its ongoing meeting, but it is to underscore that the BJP definitely wants Nitish Kumar to continue as the Chief Minister of the state," he said further. Talking further, he said that the coalition government-- comprising BJP, JDU, and all others-- in the state will work more strongly for the welfare of Bihar and the countrypersons. Today Nitish Kumar chaired a meeting of all JD(U) MPs and MLAs at his official residence here after which he sought an appointment with Governor Phagu Chauhan in what is speculated as an attempt to sever ties with ally BJP. Meanwhile, Congress and Left leaders in the state attended a meeting convened by the Rashtriya Janata Dal. "Let us see what happens in operation " reverse #lotus" in #Bihar-- not by any external force, but thru the lotus'' own internal contradictions and burdens!!" Congress national spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi tweeted. To Singhvi''s remarks, Kishor said that it is the role of the Opposition to oppose and speak against the party in power. Under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, the alliance by BJP will move forward strongly. The JD(U) had contested and won the 2015 assembly elections in alliance with the RJD and Congress. Nitish Kumar in July 2017 snapped ties with the ''Mahagathbandhan'' to ally with the BJP and continue as chief minister. In the 2020 assembly polls in Bihar the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 125 seats- BJP won 74, the JD(U) bagged 43, the Vikassheel Insaan Party got 4 and Hindustan Awaam Party (Secular) bagged 4 seats. (ANI)
A firing incident between suspected militants and Assam Rifles personnel took place at Dan Pangsha area which is located along the Indo-Myanmar border, Deputy Commissioner of Noklak district Hiazu Meru told ANI.

No casualty has been reported in the incident so far.

"So far there is no report of any casualty in the incident. The area is very remote area and mobile network connectivity problem is also there," Meru said.

Earlier today, a similar firing incident on Assam Rifles personnel took place in the Gen area of Arunachal Pradesh's Tirap Changlang.

According to an official spokesperson, the incident took place while the troops were undertaking enhanced patrolling activities in view of heightened vigil for the forthcoming Independence Day.

A Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) sustained a minor injury on his hand. No other injury or damage has been reported so far. Further details are awaited. (ANI)
The nine-day program will continue till August 17. The Induction Publicity Exhibition Vehicle of IAF is transiting through different parts of southern India.

The IPEV is equipped, with a flight simulator zone, experience and information zone, flying accessories and a pictorial display of information and other aspects related to career opportunities in IAF.

Air Force Administrative College Coimbatore has been designated as the nodal station for conducting the drive in the Coimbatore region.

On Monday, the IPEV contingent made its first visit to Nirmala College in the city and encouraged girl students to opt for IAF as a career and don the blue uniform.

A motivational lecture was conducted by the IAF team followed by a Question Answer session. Various queries with respect to the qualification, age, and physical and medical standards expected out of the candidates were also clarified.

The IPEV special publicity drive benefitted more than 2500 students who were curious to learn various facets of the Indian Air Force.

The Convoy will visit reputed schools and Colleges in Coimbatore from August 8 to 17. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court on Saturday allowed an elderly patient to have an ultrasound machine at home in view of the serious condition of the patient who is not in a position to move to the hospital. The ultrasound machine is required for the test requiring replacement of the infected Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line inserted in the body of the patient. The high court directed a private hospital to transport the machine under the supervision of District administration and chief District medical officer. Otherwise the use of ultrasound machine is prohibited under Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act and concerned rules passed by the Delhi Government. Justice Sanjeev Narula observed in the order, "The Court prima facie finds that petitioner's Right To Life guaranteed by the Constitution of India would be violated, if the provisions of PNDT Act are interpreted in a manner that prevents him accessing essential medical equipment." "In a medical emergency case such as the one before us today, where a petitioner is genuinely not in a position to be transported to a location where the said machine is available, and where a procedure has been prescribed for a patient in domiciliary care, the afore noted provisions of the PNDT and the notification of the Government of NCT of Delhi, cannot come into his way," the court observed in the order uploaded on Monday. "In the opinion of the court, the legal provisions cited can not be interpreted is such a manner so as to deprive the petitioner of a treatment that is urgently required as per the advice of the concerned doctors. Any delay or failure would impede his treatment and may cause determination of his health," the court observed. It also merit nothing that the rationale for introduction of the said prohibitory provisions in the PNDT Act was in the context of prevention of the social evil of pre natal sex determination, which is very far removed from the facts of the instant case, the court said. The bench while allowing the petition directed the Director of Fortis hospital, Vasant Kunj to transport an ultrasound machine to the residence of the petitioner. It was also directed that the above direction be carried out under the supervision of District Magistrate (New Delhi) and /or District Magistrate (Najafgarh) along with the concerned Chief District Medical officer (who is concerned PNDT Officer) of the afore said districts, who shall forthwith issue instructions/approval to Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj as may be required to ensure comply with the the above directions. The high court issued the direction while granting interim relief to 70 years old petitioner Deepak Nirula. The petition was urgently mentioned on Saturday which started that the petitioner is suffering from debilitating illness called Progressive Supranuclear Palcy (PSP) and under domiciliary hospitalisation at his home, which is an arrangement akin to an ICU setting in tertiary care. The petition stated that the petitioner can not be taken to a hospital or a clinic for ultrasound, especially in the present case for removing the infected Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) line which has been inserted in his body. The PICC stated to have been infected by a fungal infection Candida Auris which as per the report is resistant to all antibiotics. If the said PICC line is not replaced immediately, it may have dire consequences for his already frail condition. (ANI)
Bihar Chief Minister and Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar on Tuesday arrived at Raj Bhavan on Tuesday to meet Governor Phagu Chauhan, amid speculations of a rift in the ruling JD(U)-BJP coalition in the state. The move came after a meeting of the JD(U) at the official residence of Nitish Kumar here. In the JD(U) meeting today, all MLAs and MPs of the party supported chief minister Kumar's decision and said that they were with him. They also asserted that they will continue to support Kumar in his decision. Police personnel were seen deployed in force outside the chief minister's residence. According to sources, many JD(U) legislators told chief minister Kumar in today's meeting that the alliance with the BJP had weakened them since 2020. Without naming Chirag Paswan, the legislators are reported to have recalled the actions of former Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief during the 2020 state assembly polls while warning the CM that if they were not alert, it would not be good for the party. Paswan had fielded rebel BJP candidates in all seats fought by the JD(U) in the 2020 polls, in what some have alleged was part of a plot of the BJP to wedge its way into the ruling coalition in the state. Meanwhile, a meeting of the Mahagathbandhan opposition alliance was also held here today at former chief minister Rabri Devi's residence with participation of leaders of the CPI-ML and the Congress - part of the Opposition 'Mahagathbandhan' alliance in the state. According to sources, after the meeting Rashtriya Janata Dal MLAs, MLCs and Rajya Sabha MP authorised party leader Tejashwi Yadav to take a decision and asserted their support to him. According to sources, Congress and Left parties MLAs have also expressed their supported to Yadav. Sources said that RJD party supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav is closely watching the developments but everything was being done by Tejashwi Yadav.Meanwhile, Lalu Prasad Yadav's daughter Rohini Acharya took to Twitter to post about an impending political change in the state."Get ready for the coronation, lantern holder", she tweeted in Hindi and added a 'victory' emoticon to it. Rumours of a growing rift between the BJP-JDU ie the NDA alliance in Bihar intensified after Kumar skipped a key meeting of the NITI Aayog, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday and JD(U) leader RCP Singh tendered his resignation from the party. Singh, once considered a close aide of Nitish Kumar had announced his exit from the party after being served a notice seeking an explanation on allegations of corruption. The RJD-led Opposition in the state has said that it will welcome any re-alignment in Bihar's ruling coalition without the BJP. Ahead of the RJD convened meeting today, Congress Bihar legislature party leader Ajit Sharma said: "If Nitish Kumar comes, we'll welcome him. If he comes we will support him.A meeting of Mahagathbandhan is being held. We should take a decision to support (him) by considering Nitish Kumar as the CM but we'll be able to tell you only after the meeting." Bihar BJP leaders also met at deputy chief minister Tarkishore Prasad's residence in Patna on Tuesday. (ANI)